WINK-TV (Fort Myers, FL)

A lot of people are curious about the origin of the name WINK News. While it might seem like it relates to the CBS logo since we are a CBS station, the truth is a bit different. WINK's story starts back in 1939, when it was known as WFTM, a radio station not affiliated with any network, owned by the Fort Myers Broadcasting Company. It holds the distinction of being the first licensed radio station in Southwest Florida. In 1942, the station was acquired by Ronald B. Woodyard and Reginald B. Martin, leading to a change in its call letters to WAAC.

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Trump announces travel ban affecting a dozen countries set to go into effect Monday

1 day ago | winknews.com | Bernard McGhee |Curtis Yee

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump is resurrecting the travel ban policy from his first term, signing a proclamation Wednesday night preventing people from a dozen countries from entering the United States. The countries include Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen.
Exclusive: Congressman Byron Donalds says not to worry about FEMA

3 days ago | winknews.com | Claire Galt

As hurricane season approaches, many are questioning the readiness of FEMA to respond to future storms. An internal report recently surfaced, suggesting the agency was "ill-prepared," but leaders have promised to develop a plan. WINK News anchor Claire Galt spoke with Congressman Byron Donalds on San Carlos Island at the nonprofit Fort Myers Beach Strong. Donalds assured that if another major hurricane strikes, FEMA is ready, though he mentioned that the agency will look different and better.
12-year-old dies following submerged car crash in Cape Coral

3 days ago | winknews.com | Amy Galo

A 12-year-old succumbed to their injuries after a crash on Monday. On Monday afternoon, crews worked to rescue the child and an adult from the vehicle following a two-car crash. The incident occurred near Veterans Memorial Parkway, between Surfside and Pine Island. The road was shut down for hours as emergency responders managed the scene. The adult in the vehicle is in critical condition and is still being treated for their injuries.
Miracle Moment: Naples teen defies odds after traumatic fall, inspiring change

4 days ago | winknews.com | Amanda Hall

A teenager's recovery after an accident has become a beacon of hope for his family and community. WINK News met Logan, a young boy who defied the odds after falling from a school window and suffering severe injuries. Stephanie Nordin, Logan's mother, recalled the harrowing day. "I went to go pick up my children after school like any other Monday, and was greeted with an ambulance," said Nordin.
The 2025 hurricane season has officially kicked off: What you can expect

5 days ago | winknews.com | Lauren Kreidler

Today starts the month of June, which means that the 2025 hurricane season is officially underway. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1st through November 30th. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting an above-average season for this year. During a normal hurricane season, 14 named storms develop. An average of 7 of those storms become hurricanes, 3 of which reach major hurricane status, meaning a category 3 or higher.
Boat accidents on the rise in Lee County

1 week ago | winknews.com | Paul Dolan

Southwest Florida's love for boating also brings a safety risk. In 2024, Florida Fish and Wildlife recorded more boating fatalities than the previous year. Lee County ranked as the sixth highest in Florida for boating crashes, with one being deadly. WINK News reporter Paul Dolan hit the docks to talk with local boaters. Capt. Sydnie Collins shared her insights on where she believes boating crashes often occur. "I would think a lot of accidents happen down in that area," said Collins.
Naples Pride Fest outdoor event sparks new lawsuit over disabled children's safety

1 week ago | winknews.com | Olivia Jean

Earlier this week, a federal judge ruled that Naples Pride Fest can hold their drag show outdoors at Cambier Park. This decision comes amidst pushback from the city of Naples, which prefers the event to be held indoors. A new lawsuit has been filed against holding the event outdoors. Darren Aquino of Naples argues that allowing adult-themed performances in public parks violates the Americans with Disabilities Act and deters disabled children from safely using public spaces.
FC Naples to compete in Jagermeister Cup in Miami

1 week ago | winknews.com | Sylvie Sparks

FC Naples is gearing up for an exciting clash as they compete in the group stage of the Jagermeister Cup. This marks a significant moment for the team in their inaugural season in USL League One. The event features teams from both USL League One and the USL Championship, the latter being a division above FC Naples. FC Naples will travel across Alligator Alley to face in-state rival Miami FC, a team from the USL Championship.
FDOT plans safety upgrades on Palm Beach Blvd. after teen's death

1 week ago | winknews.com | Jolena Esperto

A memorial of balloons, flowers and a bike honors 14-year-old Nestor, who died while crossing the street on his bike on the morning of May 22. The tribute serves as a reminder of ongoing safety issues along Palm Beach Boulevard. Estella Diaz expressed frustration over local spending priorities. "Our tax money is going on, bullcrap that don't need to be done. Look at how they did Colonial [Blvd]. This needed to improve here, not Colonial...Palm Beach," said Diaz.
FBI and others investigating possible Collier County permit fraud

1 week ago | winknews.com | Olivia Jean

Hundreds of homes in Collier County are now under scrutiny as part of a federal, state, and local investigation into questionable permits. A retired architect's seal is at the center of the controversy, and the investigation is raising concerns for homeowners affected by the unauthorized use of the seal. Gene Cravillion, a well-known architect, is now 91 years old and has lived in a north Naples assisted-living facility since August 2022.