Hurricane Isaias, Alligator Alcatraz Lawsuit, and World Mental Health Day

In this episode of Southwest Florida in Focus, we explore compelling local stories shaping our community:  

Hurricane Isaias on Track to Hit Florida: Hurricane Isaias is leaving its mark on the Sunshine State as it becomes the first hurricane to hit Florida since Hurricane Milton two years ago. Both storms formed around the same time in early October, and both underwent explosive intensification as they crossed the gulf. WGCU’s Jennifer Crawford chats with Meteorologist Andrew Wulfeck about whether this trend in hurricane activity could become a common occurrence for future storms. 

Alligator Alcatraz Lawsuit Pushes Forward: In June, after less than one year of operations, the state of Florida shut down the temporary immigration detention center known as Alligator Alcatraz. With operations over, federal, state, and county officials have filed motions to dismiss a lawsuit that has challenged the environmental violations associated with the facility. The suit was filed by Friends of the Everglades, the Center for Biological Diversity, and Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida. WGCU’s Jennifer Crawford talks with Elise Bennett, senior attorney for the Center for Biological Diversity, about pressing on with the lawsuit. 

Supporting a Loved One with Mental Illness:  Saturday, Oct. 10 is recognized as World Mental Health Day. The National Alliance on Mental Health, or NAMI, reports nearly 60 million Americans experience a mental health crisis every year. WGCU’s Jennifer Crawford sits down with Gina Britton, program director for NAMI Southwest Florida, to learn about local efforts underway to help individuals and families impacted by mental health concerns.

Yoga with Capybaras: About once a month at Big Cat Habitat in Sarasota, yoga takes a wild twist to raise money for the non-profit. Yogis can strike a peaceful pose with exotic animals called capybaras. WGCU Reporter Dayna Harpster took to the mat to find out more.