WINK News has launched a new initiative called WINK Listens, aimed at connecting with the community and amplifying local voices in Southwest Florida. The first event took place at the German American Social Club in Cape Coral, with an inspiring turnout.
In a lively setting filled with conversation and coffee, attendees shared a variety of concerns and aspirations for their neighborhood.
From cracked sidewalks to the desire for more family-friendly spaces, the event provided a platform for important community stories.
"The story is about positive morals and using the individual talent and making it a group effort because just one individual could have something that's creative but it takes a group of people to make it more creative and successful," said Leo Bickert from Cape Coral, who proudly shared a children's book he is writing.
Braden Krokstrom, also from Cape Coral, expressed his hopes for more recreational options. "I would like to see an arcade in Cape Coral, that's big and has more stuff than five games at Gator Mikes, like more park and rec stuff like a nerf gun battle at a park," he said.
WINK Listens Cape Coral July 31, 2025
The event highlighted the community's desire to speak up and strengthen their neighborhood. It served as a powerful reminder of the importance of listening to local voices.
WINK Listens will continue next month in Collier County. Details will be shared soon, both on-air and online, as WINK News looks forward to hearing more stories from the community.