Solar Outpaces Coal, Redistricting Elections, and Teenager Runs Business

In this episode of Southwest Florida in Focus, we explore compelling local stories shaping our community:
Solar Energy Outpaces Coal: For the first time in U.S. history, solar power out-generated coal for an entire month. In May, solar energy supplied 12.8% of the nation's electricity. Coal supplied 12.2% according to Ember, a global energy thinktank. WGCU’s Jennifer Crawford discusses the future of solar energy and coal with Nicolas Fulghum, a senior data analyst with Ember.
Redistricting’s Impact on Elections: Last Friday marked the qualifying deadline for candidates running for various elected offices in Florida's midterm elections. That means voters now have a clearer picture of who they'll have to choose from on their ballots in races ranging from governor to county school boards. WGCU Host and Reporter John Davis gives an update on some of the latest election news.
Expanding Estero: Estero is in the midst of a population boom. Much of that growth is happening east of I-75 along Corkscrew Road. While the road is under major construction to pave the way for new housing developments it naturally gets packed with traffic. WGCU Reporter Youn-Joo Park speaks with Estero residents about the local impact of expanding development.
Teenager Builds Business Through Social Media: A Southwest Florida 18-year-old entrepreneur is using social media magic to take a bite out of the brunch market at his cafe in Fort Myers. Alessandro Ruiz has optimized websites like Tik Tok and Instagram to bring in brunch lovers from across the state. WGCU News Fellow Jessica Bowlby checks out Taza Cafe to get a slice of the action.