President Trump to Visit, Halloween at Six-Mile Cypress, and Science of Spiders

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

Trump Plans Visit to Fort Myers: The Florida GOP says thousands of supporters are expected to attend President Trump's midterm rally at Alico Arena on Friday. WGCU has also confirmed that some students and College Democrats plan a peaceful protest outside the arena. WGCU’s Jennifer Crawford talks with Republican Party Chair Evan Powers about the upcoming event.

Wastewater Treatment Concerns: Manatee county is struggling to keep its system when it comes to processing raw sewage. WGCU Senior Environmental Reporter Tom Bayles explains the concerns surrounding wastewater treatment.

First Halloween Event for Six-Mile Cypress Slough Preserve: Halloween is 10 days away, but a local environmental preserve is ready to celebrate this weekend. Six-Mile Cypress Slough has planned a spine-chilling production for visitors of all ages. WGCU Culture and Connections Reporter Elizabeth Andarge takes us to the boardwalk.

Spiders: Friend or Foe? BBC Earth reports that spiders can be found on every continent except Antarctica, and they range in size from as tiny as a pinhead to as large as your hand. WGCU Reporter Kate Cronin talks with Dr. Joyce Fassbender, an arachnologist, to learn more about our eight-legged friends.

First Skunk Patient Since 2022 Admitted to CROW : Whether it's a baby bird or an aging gopher tortoise, The Clinic For Rehabilitation Of Wildlife cares for all creatures big and small. One of their current patients is actually a rare admittance for the clinic. WGCU Reporter Kate Conin finds out how a skunk kit made its way into the clinic's care.