The supermarket chain Winn-Dixie is being sold in a deal valued at $560 million to Bi-Lo LLC, the companies said Monday, creating a huge grocery operator in the South.

Shares of Winn-Dixie, which has more than twice the number of stores of its buyer, jumped over 70 percent Monday. The company had struggled in the past, entering into bankruptcy protection in 2005, but has been revamping operations in recent years. (more…)

Recently I visited Lehigh Acres, Florida on business. One morning I decided to visit not a fast food chain but a small family owned eatery called Joe’s Cafe.

As soon as I entered the eatery I was quickly greeted by a “Good morning, please sit where you like.” I was happily surprised to find this simple family atmosphere. I sit in a booth near the front.

I had yet to finish looking over the menu you when a young man arrived at my table, asking what would I like to drink and if I was ready to order. (more…)

Though the redistricting deliberation is only beginning, maps offered by the Florida House and Senate agree on how to change U.S. Rep. Connie Mack’s Naples and Fort Myers district.

Among seven congressional maps released by a House committee today and a Senate proposal last week, it appears that district would not change very much, except that it would not include any part of Port Charlotte or Lehigh Acres, as it does now. (more…)

Two Lehigh Acres citizens have already filled the required paperwork to run for the East County Water Control District It’s a little early to be positing for votes but two Lehigh Acres citizens have already filled the required paperwork to run for the East County Water Control District. Joseph Whalen Former President / CEO of the Lehigh Acres Chamber is running for ECWCD Seat 3 and Edward T Weiner the Chairman the Lehigh Acres Economic Development Board is running for ECWCD Seat 5