Matt Civale

Voting for the Hero Dog Awards is live now until October 9 at www.herodogawards.org. You can vote once a day, every day, in support of Tank and the North Collier Fire and Rescue family that cares for him.

U.S. households are eligible to order four free COVID-19 tests at www.COVIDTests.gov. However, many COVID-19 tests have extended expiration dates and health professionals are encouraging people to check the dates before using them.

With Tropical Storm Helene is predicted to make landfall in Florida on Thursday, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission is urging all vessel owners to secure their watercraft before the storm reaches the coast.FWC Southwest Region Public Information Officer Bradley Johnson highlighted the importance of moving any vessel, from kayak to fishing boat, away from tidal waters and increasing security measures to limit damages. He offered crucial tips for those who are unable to trailer their boat.

County Commissioners voted Tuesday, to authorizing staff to pursue the purchase of a roughly 100-acre former orange grove adjacent to the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary through the county's Conservation 20/20 program.

The Lee Library System has spent the last 60 years combining the resources of libraries across the county to provide information and technology free of charge to anyone who steps through the doors. With more than 273,000 free cardholders and over 1.5 million visitors this year alone, Lee County libraries offer various programs and resources, from early literacy programs and homework resources to downloadable books and streamable movies.

Every sports fan has a love-hate relationship with referees, but this football season in Collier County, a call is being made that both sidelines can be happy with. STARability Foundation, working in partnership with the Greater Naples Officials Association (GNOA), is returning with their ball assistant program for teens and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.