Florida’s python population is infamous. These snakes have bulldozed through the Everglades, swallowing everything from deer to alligators, and they’re blamed for wiping out much of south Florida’s native wildlife. For years, the core python range stretched from Everglades National Park in Miami-Dade County, spread up to Lake Okeechobee, down to Key Largo, and west into Collier County. That was the established battle line.

Now, researchers say the snakes are pushing even further, establishing a new colony outside their old range. And the problem isn’t subtle. These apex predators don’t discriminate; they wipe out raccoons, opossums, bobcats, birds, even prey that’s larger than themselves. Once pythons move in, local mammals vanish, and the ecosystem gets hollowed out, left with little more than rodents and other invaders. Robert McCleery, a wildlife ecologist from the University of Florida, calls the result a “simplified ecosystem.” Despite years of effort, no one’s reversed this damage on the scale that’s needed.

It’s not just pythons, either; giant lizards have muscled into south Florida, adding to the mess. According to the FWC, reports of pythons in areas like Rotonda West, Placida, Englewood East, and South Gulf Cove began spiking in 2020. And these snakes didn’t just wander over naturally. Wildlife officials suspect people released their captive pythons, or some escaped, which lines up with what biologists would predict for a “satellite population” founded by intentional introductions, not just natural spread.

Since 1975, the U.S. has imported about 180,000 Burmese pythons. Most entered through the exotic pet trade, and plenty found their way into the wild by accident or on purpose. By 2000, these snakes had established self-sustaining populations in South Florida.

Estimating the total number of Burmese pythons slithering through Florida is nearly impossible. Their camouflage and secretive behavior give them a low detectability rate. Researchers estimate they spot only 1% to 3% of the pythons, even during active surveys. In the Everglades, it can take about eight hours just to find a single python. Because of this, FWC and its partners are still out there, monitoring and surveying for pythons in places like Charlotte and Lee Counties, hoping to get ahead of a problem that keeps on growing.

The post Not Just an Everglades Problem: Southwest Florida Named Latest Python Breeding Hotspot appeared first on Englewood Review.

After a stretch of recent rainfall, the Keetch-Byram Drought Index dropped below 500 for seven straight days, signaling enough improvement to drop the ban. Still, the danger isn’t gone. Much of Sarasota County remains in a drought, and officials warn the ban could return if dry weather sticks around. They’re watching the conditions closely.

For residents, safety takes top priority. Even with the ban gone, stick to all existing local rules for open burning. That means following the Sarasota County Fire Department’s ordinances with backyard fires, burning debris, and using fireworks or sparklers. One careless move can start a blaze, so stay careful and alert.

Regularly checking the Sarasota County Government website is advisable because conditions can change quickly, and they will post updates there. The burn ban is off for now, but extreme caution is still the rule.

Click here for a link to The Sarasota County Fire Department website for updates.

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Florida’s Attorney General, James Uthmeier, is turning a spotlight on this ingredient. He recently announced subpoenas for big names like General Mills and Pillsbury, demanding records about their use of potassium bromate. His office wants to see their safety data, details on how much gets sold, especially to schools, and what they disclose to buyers. No one’s being sued right now, as it’s still an investigation, not a lawsuit.

What’s the deal with potassium bromate? Well, it’s not new. Bakers started using it back in 1916 to make flour whiter, fluffier, and give it a longer shelf life. But it’s come with a cost. Uthmeier described it straight: “It is a possible carcinogen.” And he’s worried it’s still ending up on our plates, and in school cafeterias, despite those bans overseas.

How dangerous is it, really? 

According to the FDA, with the right baking temperatures and times, potassium bromate should turn into harmless potassium bromide (similar to table salt). But if baking doesn’t go just right, some bromate can stay in the finished product. The American Chemical Society points out that this is more common than you might think.

Animal studies aren’t reassuring. The International Agency for Research on Cancer published findings in 1999 that potassium bromate triggers tumors in lab animals, like rats, mice, and hamsters. While there wasn’t clear evidence it causes cancer in humans, people with high exposures have experienced kidney damage and hearing loss. That’s serious enough for the United Kingdom and Canada, who banned it in the 1990s.

In the U.S., things are finally changing. The American Bakers Association announced it would end use of potassium bromate by the end of 2026. “Our industry’s making progress,” said Eric Dell, the group’s president, “and we want to go beyond what’s required.” But as of now, plenty of products still contain it.

Uthmeier isn’t jumping to sue companies yet. For now, he’s collecting information, product lists, buyer details (especially schools), and all related safety research. His message is simple: “We want to protect our families, number one.”

State lawmakers are listening. Florida Representative Meg Weinburger says she’ll push for legislation to get potassium bromate off the market for good.

A Little Science

Potassium bromate strengthens dough and makes bread rise higher. But inside your body, it causes trouble if not fully baked away. Studies show it can break DNA strands, damage chromosomes, and trigger tumors in organs like the kidneys and thyroid. It also fuels oxidative stress by creating free radicals, damaging the delicate membranes of liver, intestinal, and other cells. In high doses, it can harm kidney function and even damage the structures in your inner ear responsible for hearing.

What’s especially striking is the patchwork of rules across the globe. While bread in Europe rarely triggers digestive complaints, often credited to bans on potassium bromate, for over a century, it’s been legal in the U.S. The FDA urged bakers to stop using it in 1991, but didn’t ban it outright, so state laws took over. California finally acted in 2023, with a full ban taking effect by 2027.

There’s a growing push to get potassium bromate out of America’s kitchens, school lunches, and store shelves. But for now, it’s still worth checking your ingredient lists, especially if you want to avoid this controversial additive.

Click here for information from the FDA.

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On Monday, July 13, 2026, Fletcher, a dog with a knack for adventure, found himself deep inside a storm drain in the Portico community. Lee County deputies showed up with a drone, hoping to spot him in the darkness. With the drone’s live camera leading the way, Fort Myers Shores firefighters began cutting into the pipe, carefully, piece by piece. You could almost feel the tension as they worked, eyes trained on the drone feed, trying to pick the right spots.

Lee County Animal Control came out too, turning the rescue into a genuine team effort. After a tense operation, they pulled Fletcher out, safe and sound. Later, he got the best homecoming: a relieved owner welcoming him back. 

Drones really can make a difference. Sometimes, it’s as simple as bringing a lost dog back home.

The post The Ultimate “Fetch”: Drone Spots Adventurous Dog Stuck in Storm Drain appeared first on Englewood Review.

Lemon Bay Playhouse is calling all local actors for auditions for Bell, Book and Candle, John Van Druten’s charming fifties classic. Auditions run July 26 and 27, 7 p.m. at 96 Dearborn Street. The story follows Gillian Holroyd, a witty witch living in Greenwich Village, who finds herself in trouble when she casts a love spell on her neighbor, publisher Shepherd Henderson. She’s hoping to keep him away from a rival, but there’s a catch: witches can’t really fall in love without risking their magic.

Caught between life as a witch and the messy, mundane reality of genuine romance, Gillian faces a choice: does she stick with her magical, bohemian freedom or risk everything for real human connection?

The play premiered on Broadway in 1950 at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre, with John Van Druten directing, with Rex Harrison and Lilli Palmer headlining. Later, James Stewart and Kim Novak brought the story to life in the 1958 film adaptation. Bell, Book and Candle even inspired the iconic TV show Bewitched. 

Susana Falcon, Lemon Bay Playhouse’s Executive-Artistic Director, will direct this production. If you love a little magic and drama, don’t let this audition pass you by.

Click here for more information about Lemon Bay Playhouse.

The post Brewing Up Talent: Lemon Bay Playhouse Holds Auditions for ‘Bell, Book and Candle’ appeared first on Englewood Review.

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Animal Services shelter has a lot of dogs and cats waiting for a home, and it’s almost bursting at the seams. Staff are asking the community to step up by adopting, fostering, or volunteering. The shelter currently holds 26 dogs, exceeding the main kennel’s capacity of 19, and they’ve resorted to using overflow runs. Along with the dogs, there are about 35 cats and kittens in their care.

Cost is a big reason why so many animals get surrendered. Animal services workers see it all the time: people struggling to cover food and vet bills just can’t keep their pets.

When the shelter runs out of room, things get tough. Kristen Little, the foster coordinator, explains, “We’re not a no-kill shelter—we’re a municipal county shelter. Our job is to support the community and make space for animals who need us.”

Before the shelter considers euthanasia, staff do everything they can to find other options. They reach out to rescue partners, lean on their foster network, and arrange transfers if possible.

Even though the shelter’s full right now, it’s not in crisis mode like in past years. They’re making space work for incoming pets, thanks to extra rooms and overflow kennels.

If you adopt, you don’t just save one animal; you make room for the next one in need. Adoption fees cover a lot, and they include spay or neuter surgery, a rabies shot, the first year’s county license, and for dogs, a microchip.

Dog and puppy adoption fees are $70; cats and kittens are $60. Every animal sees an Animal Care Technician for a health check before going home.

If you’ve been wanting a pet, this is a good time to visit and make a difference for a homeless animal and for yourself.

Click here for more information about The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Animal Services shelter.

The post Room in Your Home, Room in Your Heart: Sarasota County Pets Are Waiting for Their Second Chance appeared first on Englewood Review.

This nomination is an enormous deal for Anderson and for “The Pitt.” The show racked up 25 nominations for its second season, including three wins last year, one of them for best drama. Anderson isn’t alone, either; two of her co-stars, Brittany Allen and Tina Ivlev, are also in the running for guest actress, along with Miriam Shor (“Pluribus”), Merritt Wever (“The Gilded Age”), and Shailene Woodley (“Paradise”). NBC and Peacock will announce the winners at the 78th Emmy Awards on September 14, airing live and streaming.

Anderson’s story is about more than local pride. She is on the autism spectrum, and critics have praised her performance as Becca King, especially this season when her character is admitted for treatment, for its honesty and realism. This isn’t her first time playing an autistic character, either. Back in 2019, she had a breakthrough playing an autistic college student on Netflix’s “Atypical.”

She doesn’t set out to only play autistic roles. For her, it’s about good parts and steady work. Still, she’s glad she can bring a more nuanced, positive portrayal to the screen, something she rarely saw growing up. Diagnosed at age four, Anderson remembers feeling invisible in the media as a child. “It’s important, in my opinion—as an autistic person myself—to see someone in the media you relate to, who makes you feel seen, like you belong,” she said in a March 2026 interview. “Not having that representation, especially for children, really affects confidence and self-esteem.”

Anderson graduated from Cape Academy in 2016, moved to Los Angeles after earning her film degree from Full Sail University, and has stayed close with her Southwest Florida roots, even as her whole family joined her in California. Before “Atypical,” she acted in independent shorts and on stage at the Florida Rep in Fort Myers.

Now, she’s making Emmy history and changing how Hollywood tells stories about people on the autism spectrum. No matter what happens next, it’s clear she’s not just representing Southwest Florida; she’s making sure an entire group of kids can finally see themselves on TV.

Click here to visit Tal Anderson’s website.

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This isn’t just another line on the legal calendar for Kelly Bauman or the group Oppose Manasota Beach Rd. Big players like Pat Neal want to shut them down fast. This hearing has actual weight, as a judge will listen, question, and decide if the case can move forward. It’s set for two hours in the middle of the afternoon, but the impact will last much longer.

Kelly says she isn’t coming in empty-handed. She’ll lay out evidence for everyone to see: severe flooding risks, destruction of local wetlands, environmental dangers, and threats to neighborhood safety. Their stance is clear: community voices matter. This fight isn’t about a handful of angry residents; it’s about a shared future. Anyone from the public can tune in, support Kelly, and let decision-makers know: the community won’t step aside for big developers, no matter how loud or well-funded.

Divisions remain, that’s true. But what happens at this hearing will shape the area for years. The choices made now will echo far beyond the next news cycle.

Here’s what Kelly Bauman says about the fight:

“After nearly a year digging through thousands of papers, documents, and permits, it’s hard to believe our elected officials still claim they can’t see what’s right in front of them—clear as day to thousands of us.”

What does Kelly say to those who support the road and say that “it’s in the plan” for some time? 

“They can’t ignore the endless problems. The overall process, the hasty approval, and, frankly, the total lack of due diligence are obvious. Our commissioners had a choice. They could have denied the Unsolicited PPP. Instead, they rushed this through in just 14 days. Fourteen. For a project tangled in decades of permits, shifting ownership, city boundaries, sensitive wetlands, endangered animals, a canopy road, the floodplain, and the Lemon Bay watershed. And let’s not skip over safety—a dangerous intersection, 21,000 cars funneled onto Manasota Key, a barrier island we’re supposed to protect. It’s an embarrassment, a real failure of responsibility. Everyone knows River Road is the evacuation route for Englewood, Port Charlotte, and North Port. That’s where the focus should be—full stop.”

Regarding the actions of commissioners, Kelly admits, “I’m embarrassed to say that both times Mark Smith raised serious doubts about this project, the other commissioners did nothing. They couldn’t even pause to consider. Tom Knight insisted, ‘River Road is too dangerous for the high schoolers; we need Manasota Beach Rd,’ and then shrugged off the rest. The staff just pushed ahead. Fourteen days! It’s outrageous.”

What are her thoughts when people on social media accuse the Oppose Manasota Beach Rd. group and Kelly Bauman of being a small group of angry “complainers”? 

“Englewood and Charlotte County residents should be furious. We aren’t a small group of ‘complainers.’ We’re a large, diverse crowd who’ve recognized the contradictions, the corners cut, the special treatment handed out. We’re not ignoring it. We’re not letting it slide.”

Kelly never imagined she would be here, preparing for this Zoom call and being the spokesperson for this cause. 

“Did I expect to be here? Honestly, no. But once you see the whole picture, you have a responsibility to speak up. I don’t get to look away—and I won’t. It’s shameful our county commissioners don’t feel the same obligation. It’s time they stop making excuses and actually take responsibility.”

Click here for more information about Oppose Manasota Beach Rd.

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The summer between Memorial Day and Labor Day isn’t just any hundred days; it’s the most dangerous on the calendar for teen drivers. Every year, studies from AAA and The Florida Safe Teen Driving Coalition show teen-involved fatal crashes spike during these months. More traffic, more teens on the road, and more risk.

To keep everyone safe, NHTSA shares 6 reminders:

1. If you double your speed, your stopping distance doesn’t just double—it quadruples.

2. Big vehicles need more room to stop, especially on hills, wet or rough roads.

3. Hit the brakes before you reach a curve.

4. Teens are watching, so drive the speed limit and set the standard.

5. Let tailgaters pass; don’t race them.

6. And seat belts? Always buckle up.

Simple steps, but they make a difference, especially when the stakes are highest.

Click here for more information from the NHTSA.

The post Five Southern States Launch Weeklong Blitz on Speeding and Aggressive Drivers, Including Florida appeared first on Englewood Review.

Why do we all flock to ice cream shops this time of year? For starters, Florida’s heat index often creeps past 100°F, so eating ice cream really helps cool you down from the inside out. 

Beyond temperature, there’s science behind that smile on your face: the sugar and fat get your brain pumping out dopamine and serotonin, so you feel happier and, honestly, ready for anything. Don’t forget, real dairy ice cream also packs nutrients like calcium, Vitamin A, and B12, which is good news for your bones and immune system. And, of course, grabbing a cone from a local shop is a perfect excuse to cool down, chat with neighbors, and get out into Englewood.

Need ideas for local ice cream spots? The Englewood REVIEW has you covered. Here are a few of our favorite shops in town:

Lickity Split Cafe

This spot’s a go-to for more than just ice cream. Sure, the homemade flavors are a hit, but don’t skip their burgers, sandwiches, salads, and even quiche. Lickity Split offers extra treats; they now make fresh fruit bouquets and strawberries dipped in chocolate. These bouquets make beautiful gifts or edible centerpieces, and you can pick one up or have it delivered. The staff’s always happy to help, and they love seeing familiar faces return. Stop in to see the selection, pick up something for yourself, or call to order a bouquet. Either way, the friendly folks at Lickity Split are grateful for the support from the Englewood community.

Located in Englewood
2828 S. McCall Rd, Ste 5, Englewood, FL 34224
941-474-2185
Click here for more information about Lickity Split Cafe.

The Arctic Alligator Creamery

Founded in 2019, Arctic Alligator Creamery makes some of the best small-batch ice cream around, using fresh Florida dairy and all-natural colors and flavors. Their team of “flavorologists” makes everything fresh, and they source ingredients locally when they can. Besides ice cream, you’ll find cakes, shakes, and baked treats made daily. If you want to taste inventive, high-quality creations made right here in Englewood, you don’t want to miss Arctic Alligator Creamery.

Located in Englewood
3385 S Access Rd Unit 1, Englewood, FL 34224 
941-460-3647
Click here for more information about The Arctic Alligator Creamery.

A Better Scoop Ice Cream Shoppe

A Better Scoop opened in 2009 and has been a true mom-and-pop shop ever since, run by Kevin and Sarah Gleba, Englewood locals who really love ice cream (so much so that they also run Arctic Alligator Creamery). 

A Better Scoop is all about making ice cream the old-fashioned way, with local, fresh ingredients. The staff’s known for being cheerful and welcoming, and they’re always on the hunt for the very best recipes, so much so that they opened their own production facility to keep quality sky-high. If you want to taste the pride and passion of local owners, you know where to go.

Located in Englewood
70 S Indiana Ave, Englewood, FL 34223 
941-473-2650
Click here for more information about A Better Scoop Ice cream Shop.

Uncle Louie G

Sometimes, there’s just nothing quite like authentic Italian ice. Uncle Louie G serves classic Italian ices and ice cream, and their flavor lineup seems endless. Seriously, check the menu, featuring over 90 Italian ice flavors, including vegan, sugar-free, and dairy-free options, plus specialty treats like Belgian waffle sundaes and chocolate lava explosions. On top of that, you’ll find espresso, bagels, and breakfast sandwiches. If you love variety and want to try something new each visit, Uncle Louie G is your spot.

Located in Publix Super Market at Gulf Cove
13435 S McCall Rd Unit 6, Port Charlotte, FL 33981 
941-688-4182
Click here for more information about Uncle Louie G.

Made in the Shade Ice Cream

If you’re looking for that old-school ice cream shop vibe, Made in the Shade is calling your name. They’ve got a legit jukebox, retro decor, and a huge menu: vegan ice cream, shakes, floats, sundaes, cotton candy, snow cones, and probably your favorite old-fashioned bottled soda. Outside, you’ll find covered seating and space to bring your pup along. Inside, check out their mini museum of vintage memorabilia or try your luck at vintage arcade games and pinball. They even make homemade dog ice cream and treats, so everyone leaves happy.

Located in Feodor’s Plaza
2411 S McCall Rd Ste A/B, Englewood, FL 34224 
941-681-2204
Click here for more information about Made in the Shade Ice Cream. 

When the summer heat in Englewood feels impossible, you know what to do. Grab a friend, pick a shop, get yourself a cone, and enjoy the sweet taste of summer.

The post The Sweetest Escape: Englewood’s Ultimate Guide to the Top Ice Cream Scoops appeared first on Englewood Review.