Punta Gorda, Florida Water Damage

Charlotte County Utilities is scheduled to raise its water rates 3 percent Oct. 1, further increasing the cost of basic water services that are already among the most expensive in the state.

The Charlotte County Sheriffa s Office arrested two drug traffickers in two separate cases over the past weekend, it reports.

The war did not end for Charlie Shaughnessy after his return from Vietnam. FUNDRAISER: Bar holds event to support program to link warriors and horses Like many veterans , he could not keep a job.

The woman arrested last week in connection with the 1999 disappearance of 4-year-old Pilar Rodriguez has returned to Charlotte County to face charges.

Former middleweight champ Freeman "The Natural" Barr is ready to step back into the ring.

Punta Gorda police are looking for a man and woman who allegedly attacked a 67-year-old man in the IHOP parking lot in the city at 2 .m. Sunday, it reports.

It happens at the same time every Sunday -- like clockwork. Just minutes before noon, the lines begin forming at liquor stores, gas stations and restaurants throughout Port Charlotte -- where thirsty residents start waiting for their first shot to purchase an afternoon cocktail.

Auto sales throughout Southwest Florida are beginning to rebound, driven by strengthening consumer confidence and easing credit conditions, giving area dealerships hope the recession has handed back control of the wheel.

Photo: Photo courtesy of the Charlotte's County Police Dept. Pilar Rodriguez was almost 4 years when she went missing in 1999, and after 11 years, authorities have arrested her babysitter.

Former Florida State champion and WBO title challenger Freeman 'The Natural Barr" returns to the ring on August 31st at the "War on the Peace River" event in Punta Gorda, Florida.A Barr has not been seen in the ring in almost four years, but is set to put up his gloves again to try and win the elusive title.A The event is being promoted by former ...