ABC7 5PM HOUR |
ABC7 5PM HOUR |
RAIN CONTINUES FOR FRIDAY
Our weather across Southwest Florida changed quickly! What a difference 24 hours can make.
A cold front settled into the area last night, and when you add in strong winds in the upper atmosphere the result is a complete deluge. That is what we experienced on Thursday afternoon. I expect the heavy rains to continue through Thursday night and only lighten a little on Friday. Friday will be a cloudy day with sporadic showers and afternoon highs in the low 70s.
The front is going to clear the area early this weekend. Forecast models are hinting at some of the cloud cover lingering around for the first part of our Saturday before a stronger push of cooler and drier air scours out the moisture and delivers more sunshine by the afternoon. Chilly air will continue to filter down the state resulting in some colder nights and significantly cooler afternoons. There will be quite the chill in the air by Sunday morning as overnight lows bottom out in the lower 40s here in town with readings in the middle 30s deeper inland. Despite plenty of sunshine by Sunday, temperatures will struggle to get out of the 60s.
We'll plan on another chilly start for Monday with lows in the 40s, before another warming trend gets under way by the middle part of the work week. The rest of next week will be sunny with highs 80+.
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TRACKING SHOWERS--
STORMWARN 7 RADAR SHOWS DOWNPOURS ACROSS SOUTHWEST FLORIDA AT THIS HOUR.
JP IS TRACKING WHEN IT WILL RAIN WHERE YOU ARE.
BREAKING AT 5--
THE CRUISE FROM HELL KEEPS GETTING WORSE!
YOU'RE LOOKING LIVE AT THE TRIUMPH INCHING ITS WAY TOWARD ALABAMA AT ONE MILE AN HOUR!
ITS ARRIVAL ALREADY DELAYED TWICE TODAY.
ABC 7 TEAM COVERAGE AT 5--
INCLUDING THE CAPE MAN WAITING FOR HIS FIANCEE'S RETURN.
PLUS--
05 If its going to reduce our violent crime by one act, to me it's totally worth it
LOVE NOTES FROM THE CHIEF--
THE TWENTY FIVE MOST VIOLENT CRIMINALS IN FORT MYERS ARE GETTING A SPECIAL DELIVERY.
WHAT THE POLICE CHIEF IS TELLING THEM.
AND BEATDOWN AT THE ROLLER RINK--
WHY THESE SKATERS TURNED ON THE GUARD--
BEATING HIM TO A PULP!
ABC 7 NEWS AT 5 STARTS NOW.
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STORMWARN GENERIC OPEN
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RAIN CONTINUES FOR FRIDAY
Our weather across Southwest Florida changed quickly! What a difference 24 hours can make.
A cold front settled into the area last night, and when you add in strong winds in the upper atmosphere the result is a complete deluge. That is what we experienced on Thursday afternoon. I expect the heavy rains to continue through Thursday night and only lighten a little on Friday. Friday will be a cloudy day with sporadic showers and afternoon highs in the low 70s.
The front is going to clear the area early this weekend. Forecast models are hinting at some of the cloud cover lingering around for the first part of our Saturday before a stronger push of cooler and drier air scours out the moisture and delivers more sunshine by the afternoon. Chilly air will continue to filter down the state resulting in some colder nights and significantly cooler afternoons. There will be quite the chill in the air by Sunday morning as overnight lows bottom out in the lower 40s here in town with readings in the middle 30s deeper inland. Despite plenty of sunshine by Sunday, temperatures will struggle to get out of the 60s.
We'll plan on another chilly start for Monday with lows in the 40s, before another warming trend gets under way by the middle part of the work week. The rest of next week will be sunny with highs 80+.
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BREAKING NEWS,
A DISABLED CRUISE SHIP HEADED TO THE ALABAMA SHORE IS MOVING AGAIN.
THIS IS A LIVE LOOK RIGHT NOW AT THE CARNIVAL TRIUMPH SHIP.
IT STALLED EARLIER TODAY AFTER A TOWLINE BROKE.
THAT IS NOW FIXED.
WE'RE TOLD IT COULD TAKE UP TO 10 MORE HOURS FOR THE BOAT TO REACH THE PORT OF MOBILE.
AND WITH ONLY ONE ELEVATOR IT COULD TAKE UP TO 5 HOURS TO GET EVERYONE OFF BOARD.
THERE ARE 4 THOUSAND PEOPLE ON BOARD.
TONIGHT, THEY'RE DESCRIBING THE CONDITIONS AS HORRIFIC WITH WATER AND FOOD SHORTAGES AND SEWAGE RUNNING DOWN THE WALLS.
HERE'S ABC'S CHRISTINA LEAVENWORTH.
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We are getting our first look at the conditions on the disabled Carnival
Triumph cruise ship.
Passengers camping out on decks.
and long lines for food
And the job of towing the stricken 100-thousand-ton ocean liner towards
Mobile, Alabama is taking longer than expected.
SOT/TERRY THORNTON/SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE
"I just want to caution everybody this is going to be a long day"
Long day indeed And in the afternoon. more trouble -- a pulley connecting
the ship to a tugboat snapped, causing another delay
Several of the more than 4, 000 passengers on board describe horrible
conditions on the boat. with water and food shortages and sewage running
down the walls
SOT/ PHONER WITH CRUISE SHIP PASSENGER- TAMMY HILLEY: "our toilets sort of
exploded all over the place and we've been on the balcony. since then"
Carnival Cruislines disputes the passengers' accounts and says employees are
doing everything they can to ensure people are comfortable.
SOT/TERRY THORNTON/SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE:
The ship is in excellent shape now and will be fully provisioned to provide
all the food services for the guests.
Some anxious family members waiting for the loved ones at dock here are
skeptical.
SOT/FAMILY INTERVIEW/TBA: pretty much the same misinformation that we got
from everywhere else/I don't trust them. what did they do to gain my
trust?
Mary Poray's daughter-Rebakah - is traveling with her dad. The mom is
wearing a bright coat so her 12-year-old spots her the minute she comes
ashore
SOT/PORET. " I want her to know. beyond the shadow of the doubt that her
mamma has moved heaven and earth to be here."
Once the passengers disembark they will face long bus rides to chartered
planes which will finally take them home.
TAG: Carnival Cruise Lines is offering 500 dollars to each passenger along
with a full reimbursement. a free cruise in the future. but some
passengers say it is not enough to make up what they've been through.Matt
Gutman, ABC News, Mobile, Alabama
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TEAM COVERAGE OPEN
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A WOMAN FROM CAPE CORAL IS AMONG THE FOUR-THOUSAND PEOPLE ON-BOARD WHAT SOME ARE CALLING A "FLOATING PETRI DISH."
DEE TUCKER IS ENDURING HER EIGHTH MISERABLE DOWN ON-BOARD THAT SHIP.
WE TALKED TO HER FIANCE JOE ECKERT TODAY.
HE TELLS US HE WAS SUPPOSED TO PICK TUCKER UP AT THE AIRPORT TUESDAY.
BUT THEY'RE SPENDING VALENTINE'S DAY APART -- NOT EVEN TALKING.
ECKERT HAS ONLY BEEN ABLE TO SPEAK TO HIS FIANCE ONCE.
THAT WAS ON MONDAY.
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"My mind runs wild about where is she sleeping, is she eating, are other passengers being mean because they're at their wits end, is she getting sick from all of the fecal matter that's laying all over the place."
ECKERT SAYS HE'S NOT SURE WHAT THE PLANS ARE TO GET HIS FINACE HOME.
BUT HE'S BEEN GETTING PHONE CALLS FROM CARNIVAL EVERYDAY WITH UPDATES.
I DO WANT TO SHARE SOME NEWS I JUST SAW CNN REPORTING --
A GUEST WITH A MEDICAL ISSUE HAS BEEN EVACUATED FROM THIS SHIP.
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THERE WERE 24 HOMICIDES IN FORT MYERS LAST YEAR, BUT ONLY 5 ARRESTS.
TONIGHT, THE FORT MYERS POLICE DEPARTMENT HAS A NEW WAY TO TRY AND CATCH CRIMINALS.
ABC7 HAS LEARNED THE DEPARTMENT IS SENDING PERSONALIZED LETTERS TO THE CITY'S TOP 25 OFFENDERS.
ABC7'S MATT WRIGHT EXPLAINS.
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on cam
THESE 25 LETTERS HAVE GONE OUT TO THE CITY'S MOST DANGEROUS CRIMINALS. LETTING THEM KNOW THEY'RE BEING WATCHED.
THE LETTERS ARE PERSONAL. NOTING EACH PERSONS CRIMINAL HISTORY AND ENCOURAGING THEM TO CHANGE THEIR WAYS.
AND THEY'RE ALL HAND SIGNED BY THE POLICE CHIEF.
VO
THE FORT MYERS POLICE DEPARTMENT HAS LONG MAINTAINED A LIST OF VIOLENT OFFENDERS BUT THIS IS THE FIRST TIME IT'S SENT THESE LETTER.
OTHER DEPARTMENTS ACROSS THE COUNTRY HAVE HAS SUCCESS WITH SIMILAR EFFORTS AND FMPD HOPES THAT WILL HAPPEN HERE.
POLICE CHIEF DOUG BAKER SAYS THOSE GETTING THE LETTERS ARE THE WORST OF THE WORST.
MANY HAVE BEEN ARRESTED IN THE PAST FOR VIOLENT CRIMES INCLUDING MURDER AND ROBBERY.
AND ALL ARE PART OF A CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION BUT THERE JUST ISN'T ENOUGH EVIDENCE TO LOCK THEM UP NOW.
BAKER SAYS THE DEPARTMENT WILL REFER ANYONE WHO RESPONDS TO LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS THAT CAN HELP THEM.
HE SAYS THE LETTERS ARE WORTH IT EVEN IF JUST ONE PERSON CHANGES HIS OR HER WAYS.
SOT
CHIEF DOUG BAKER
FMPD
:12
.failure to do so, we'll be right there.
CONT VO
THIS IS THE LATEST IN A BROAD BASED EFFORT TO CLAMP DOWN ON VIOLENCE IN THE CITY.
IN DOWNTOWN FORT MYERS MATT WRIGHT ABC7.
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NEW AT 5 --
A HUGE CRIME IS SWEEPING SOUTHWEST FLORIDA MARINA.
BURGLARS BROKE INTO MARINA ON FORT MYERS BEACH AND MADE OFF WITH VALUABLES.
WE FOUND OUT --
THE CRIMINALS ARE SKIRTING SECURITY SYSTEMS --
CAUGHT ON TAPE AS THEY PULL OFF THESE HEISTS.
AS ABC7'S STEVE CAMPION TALKED WITH MARINA OWNERS TODAY.
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THOSE HERE AT SAM'S -- TELL ME THEY HAVEN'T A MAJOR BREAK-IN LIKE THIS IN 14 YEARS.
THE CROOK HAS LEFT THEM FEELING DREAY -- MUCH LIKE THIS WEATHER.
NOW, WE'RE LEARNING THEY'RE NOT ALONE IN THEIR ANGRY -- SOMEONE IS SINGLING OUT MARINAS IN THIS AREA.
EXCLUSIVE VIDEO SHOWS THIS MAN -- WANDERING DIVERSIFIED YACHT SERVICES AND MAKING OFF WITH BOATERS' VALUABLES.
DRESSED ALL IN BLACK WITH GLOVES -- HE LOOKS AROUND THE LUXURIOUS BOATS -- FOR MORE THAN AN HOUR.
WHILE STAFF THERE TELLS US E DOESN'T MAKE IT INSIDE THEIR COMPOUND -- AT SALTY SAM'S THEY'RE NOT SO LUCKY.
THEY EXPLAIN SOMEONE YESTERDAY EVENING -- BROKE INTO THEIR SECURE FACILITY AND STOLE FROM ALMOST 30 STORED BOATS.
SALTY SAM MARINA WORKERS SAY THEY SUSPECT THE MAN IN THIS VIDEO -- IS THE SAME ONE WHO ROBBED THEM.
THEY FEAR -- HE'S A HARDED CRIMINAL.
Jaime Huffman, Salty Sam's Waterfront Adventures
3713 "our security system and our security measures were all in place when it happened. Unfortunately, these are vey skilled criminals. They broke through these different marinas' security system within the last few weeks. They knew what they were doing."
BACK OUT HERE LIVE -- AS THE RAIN CONTINUES TO FALL -- THOSE HERE WANT YOUR HELP TO FIND WHO EVER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS BREAK-IN.
A FIRST FOR MANY OF THESE MARINAS IN YEARS
YOU'RE URGENT TO CONTACT THE LEE COUNTY SHERIFFS OFFICE.
AT SALTY SAM'S IN LEE COUNTY, STEVE CAMPION ABC7.
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NORTH PORT POLICE OFFICERS NEED YOUR HELP FINDING A PROWLER.
HERE IS A SKETCH OF THE MAN THEY'RE LOOKING FOR.
OFFICERS SAY IN THE PAST SEVERAL WEEKS, THIS MAN HAS BEEN PEEPING THROUGH WINDOWS, APPARENTLY TARGETING YOUNG FEMALE TEENAGERS.
ANYONE WITH INFORMATION SHOULD CALL THE NORTH POLICE DEPARTMENT.
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NEW AT 5 --
A PUNTA GORDA TEENAGER IS RECOVERING TONIGHT AFTER SUFFERING A SERIOUS INJURY WHILE HORSE-BACK RIDING.
GABE WELCHMAN IS DEALING WITH WHAT DOCTORS CALL A TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY.
HE WAS THROWN OFF HIS HORSE.
HE'S BEEN IN THE I-C-U AT TAMPA GENERAL HOSPITAL SINCE SATURDAY.
HIS FAMILY TELLS ABC7 HE'S DRIFTING IN-AND-OUT OF CONSCIOUSNESS.
DOCTORS SAY HE WAS WEARING A HELMET.
THAT IS WHAT SAVED HIS LIFE.
GRACE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN LAKE SUZY IS ACCEPTING MONETARY DONATIONS FOR THE FAMILY.
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A POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS CHANNEL OFF FORT MYERS BEACH IS DRAWING MORE ATTENTION TONIGHT.
BOATERS AND BUSINESS OWNERS SAY BIG CARLOS PASS IS GETTING SO SHALLOW--
THEY SAY THAT'S KEEPING BOATERS AND BUSINESS AWAY.
A GROUP BETWEEN 30 AND 40 PEOPLE MET TODAY.
THEY WANT BIG CARLOS PASS DREDGED.
THE GROUP PLANS TO WRITE LETTERS TO COMMISSIONERS ASKING THEM TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT THIS.
THEY'RE ALSO GOING TO TAKE THEIR IDEAS FOR DREDGING TO A COMMISSION MEETING TO GET THEIR REQUEST ON THE PUBLIC RECORD.
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BREAKING NEWS, SENATE REPUBLICANS HAVE TEMPORARILY BLOCKED THE VOTE ON CHUCK HAGEL'S NOMINATION AS DEFENSE SECRETARY.
SOME OF HIS FORMER GOP COLLEAGUES HELD UP THE VOTE AS A WAY TO DEMAND MORE INFORMATION FROM THE WHITE HOUSE ON ISSUES INCLUDING THE SEPTEMBER ATTACK ON THE AMERICAN CONSULATE IN LIBYA.
HAGEL'S NOMINATION WILL GET ANOTHER VOTE LATER THIS MONTH.
HAGEL MAY HAVE THE VOTES FOR CONFIRMATION BY THAT TIME.
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PRESIDENT OBAMA IS FOCUSING ON EXPANDING EARLY
CHILDHOOD EDUCATION.
PICHING HIS PLAN TODAY IN GEORGIA--
THE PRESIDENT WANTS FUNDING PUBLIC PRESCHOOL
FOR THE POOREST CHILDREN.
ALL 50 STATES AND THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT WOULD CHIP IN.
THE PLAN WILL INVOLVE MORE FEDERAL FUNDING FOR STATES IN
ORDER TO ALLOW THEM TO ENROLL MORE CHILDREN IN PRE-SCHOOL PROGRAMS.
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Michelle and I remember how tough it -- it can be to find good child care. I remember how expensive it can be too. The size of your paycheck, though, shouldn't determine your child's future. So let's fix this
THE PRESIDENT WRAPS UP HIS POST STATE OF THE UNION TOUR TOMORROW WITH A TRIP TO HIS HOMETOWN OF CHICAGO.
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THE FORT MYERS MIRACLE ARE TRYING TO CAPITALIZE ON MARCO RUBIO'S NOW FAMOUS DRINK-OF-WATER ON TUESDAY.
RUBIO GRABBED A WATER BOTTLE TO QUENCH HIS THIRST WHILE GIVING THE REPUBLICAN RESPONSE TO THE STATE OF THE UNION.
SO THE MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL TEAM WILL HOST A "MARCO RUBIO WATER BOTTLE GIVEAWAY NIGHT" THIS SUMMER.
FANS GET WATER BOTTLES WHEN THEY ARRIVE.
THE MIRACLE WILL ALSO SET UP A BOOTH WHERE FANS CAN PUT ON A SPORTS JACKET, STAND IN FRONT OF A SET AND DOWN THE WATER.
THE TEAM ALSO PLANS TO EXTEND AN INVITATION TO SENATOR RUBIO TO THROW OUT THE FIRST PITCH THAT NIGHT.
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NEXT AT 5 OPEN
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02:34:52 9 sec / "Wondering where you can still get a cheap meal around Southwest Florida? I'm your ABC 7 Smart Shopper Nina Moini, coming up I'll have three places you can eat for under 10 bucks."
AND WE'RE SAVING YOU MONEY AT THE GROCERY STORE.
HOW YOU CAN SPEND LESS AT PUBLIX. AND BUY MORE.
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BREAKING NEWS OPEN
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HERE'S THE LATEST ON BREAKING NEWS.
A CRUISE SHIP LIMPING TO PORT IN MOBILE ALABAMA IS MOVING LESS THAN ONE MILE AN HOUR.
ACCORDING TO CARNIVAL -- IT WILL BE ANOTHER SEVEN TO TEN HOURS BEFORE IT REACHES PORT --
AFTER THAT IT WILL TAKE FOUR TO FIVE HOURS FOR EVERYONE TO GET OFF THE CRUISE.
THAT'S BECAUSE THERE IS ONLY ONE WORKING ELEVATOR.
THE SHIP LOST POWER SUNDAY --
AND PASSENGERS HAVE BEEN SLEEPING ON THE DECK OF THE SHIP, WITHOUT AIR CONDITIONING FOR FIVE DAYS.
WE'LL BE WATCHING WHEN THEY ARRIVE.
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JP WEATHER OPEN
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THIS WEATHERCAST HAS BEEN PREPARED BY THE ABC7 WEATHER STAFF.
IT IS NOT A VERBATIM OF WHAT IS BEING SAID, BUT IS THE FORECAST FOR OUR AREA.
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RAIN CONTINUES FOR FRIDAY
Our weather across Southwest Florida changed quickly! What a difference 24 hours can make.
A cold front settled into the area last night, and when you add in strong winds in the upper atmosphere the result is a complete deluge. That is what we experienced on Thursday afternoon. I expect the heavy rains to continue through Thursday night and only lighten a little on Friday. Friday will be a cloudy day with sporadic showers and afternoon highs in the low 70s.
The front is going to clear the area early this weekend. Forecast models are hinting at some of the cloud cover lingering around for the first part of our Saturday before a stronger push of cooler and drier air scours out the moisture and delivers more sunshine by the afternoon. Chilly air will continue to filter down the state resulting in some colder nights and significantly cooler afternoons. There will be quite the chill in the air by Sunday morning as overnight lows bottom out in the lower 40s here in town with readings in the middle 30s deeper inland. Despite plenty of sunshine by Sunday, temperatures will struggle to get out of the 60s.
We'll plan on another chilly start for Monday with lows in the 40s, before another warming trend gets under way by the middle part of the work week. The rest of next week will be sunny with highs 80+.
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DESPITE THE RAIN WE'RE SEEING RIGHT HERE.
THE UNUSUAL DROUGHT CONDITIONS FROM THE PAST YEAR MEAN FOOD COSTS ARE ON THE RISE.
YOU'LL LIKELY SEE PRICES GOING UP AT YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS AS A RESULT.
BUT ABC 7 SMART SHOPPER NINA MOINI WENT ON THE HUNT FOR THREE PLACES WHERE YOU CAN STILL GET A GREAT MEAL. AND NINA FOR TEN DOLLARS OR LESS?!
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I FOUND OUT MANY SMALL BUSINESSES ARE COUNTING ON REGULAR CUSTOMERS TO COME BACK AGAIN AND AGAIN
THAT'S WHY THEY ARE KEEPING PRICES LOW AND HOPING THE RISING FOOD COSTS DON'T HURT THEIR BOTTOM LINE TOO MUCH.
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NATS - COFFEE POURING
MOST OF US CAN'T AFFORD TO EAT OUT EVERY DAY-
NATS - FOOD
GERI HOLECEK OWNS LULU B'S DINER IN NAPLES JUST OFF OF U-S 41 AND VANDERBUILT BEACH ROAD.
SHE HOPES TO CHANGE THAT.
23:08:40 7
Make it so people can come daily and eating out isn't just for special occasion."
HER 50'S STYLE DINER IS OPEN FOR BREAKFAST AND LUNCH EVERY DAY WITH MAKE-YOUR-OWN OMELETS AND BLT'S ALL FOR UNDER TEN BUCKS.
NATS - WINGS
FOR HEAVIER LUNCH AND DINNER FOODS TRAVEL NORTH ON 41 AND TRY JOHNNY O'MALLEY'S IRISH PUB IN BONITA SPRINGS.
23:03:31 4
"We have daily special 6.99 sandwich."
OWNER TIMOTHY O'MALLEY SAYS HE'S GOT WINGS AT 25 CENTS A PIECE MONDAYS AND TUESDAYS -
HE SAYS THE SPECIALS ARE AN EFFORT TO KEEP REGULARS COMING BACK.
A SENTIMENT OASIS RESTAURANT OWNER BONNIE GRUNBERG SAYS SHE FEELS TOO
SHE'S BEEN RUNNING HER FORT MYERS LOCATION FOR 25 YEARS.
SERVING UP BREAKFAST ALL DAY - LUNCH AND DINNER.
22:57:35 4
"I think that's what our customers expect from us we haven't changed prices in years."
SHE SAYS EVEN WITH RISING FOOD COSTS -
YOU WON'T FIND ANYTHING ON THE MENU THAT COSTS MORE THAN 8 DOLLARS AND 45 CENTS.
NATS - hi guys welcome!
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MANY SMALL BUSINESSES HAS REWARDS CARDS AS WELL THAT CAN GET YOU more DISCOUNTS THE MORE YOU EAT OUT.
FOR EVEN MORE PLACES TO EAT LOCAL AND FOR CHEAP VISIT ABC DASH SEVEN DOT COM.
CLICK ON SMART SHOPPER.
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ALSO IN YOUR SMART SHOPPER TONIGHT --
PUBLIX IS OFFERING A NEW WAY TO SAVE!
THE GROCERY GIANT IN THE SOUTHEAST IS LAUNCHING A DIGITAL COUPONING SYSTEM.
IT LETS SHOPPERS BROWSE HUNDREDS OF COUPONS ONLINE, "VIRTUALLY" CLIP THEM OUT, AND REDEEM THE DISCOUNTS AUTOMATICALLY AT THE CHECKOUT LANE.
YOU COULD SEE THE COUPONS BY THE END OF THE MONTH.
WE'RE GOING TO HELP YOU USE THE SYSTEM.
JUST HEAD TO ABC-7.COM AND CLICK ON SITES ON 7.
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NEW AT 5 --
CHANGES ARE COMING TO MONSTER ENERGY DRINKS.
THE CANS AND CONTAINERS WILL NOW LIST "NUTRITION FACTS" ON THE LABELS --
INSTEAD OF "SUPPLEMENT FACTS," AS THEY DO NOW.
THEY WILL ALSO INDICATE HOW MUCH CAFFEINE IS IN THE DRINKS.
MONSTER IS RESPONDING TO CRITICISM THAT WHAT'S IN THE ENERGY DRINK IS CAUSING HEALTH PROBLEMS AND EVEN PLAYING A ROLE IN DEATHS.
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THE NATIONAL CENTER FOR HEALTH STATISTICS ISSUED ITS FIRST REPORT ON EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION.
IT FOUND ELEVEN PERCENT OF FEMALES AGES 15 TO 44 NOW SAY THEY'VE USED THE MORNING-AFTER PILL.
THAT'S UP FROM 4 PERCENT IN 2002.
IT'S AVAILABLE OVER-THE-COUNTER.
GIRLS YOUNGER THAN 17 NEED A PRESCRIPTION.
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A LARGE ASTEROID WILL MAKE A VERY CLOSE TRIP PAST EARTH IN LESS THAN 24 HOURS.
THE ROCK IS HALF THE SIZE OF A FOOTBALL FIELD.
IT SHOULD MAKE IT'S CLOSEST PASS BY EARTH AROUND 2:30 TOMORROW.
IT WILL BE CLOSER THAN SOME SATELLITES AND THE MOON!
SCIENTISTS SAY THERE IS A POSSIBILITY IT COULD AFFECT YOUR CELL SIGNAL.EVEN HIT A SATELLITE.
TO WATCH THE FLY BY COVERAGE - JUST HEAD TO OUR FACEBOOK PAGE YOUR CAN FIND THE LINK ON OUR WEBSITE - ABC-7.COM.
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NEXT AT 5 OPEN
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THE FIRST EVER DOUBLE AMPUTEE TO COMPETE IN THE OLYMPICS--.
TONIGHT OSCAR PISTORIUS IS IN JAIL.
ACCUSED OF SHOOTING HIS GIRLFRIEND FOUR TIMES. KILLING HER.
HER LAST MESSAGE ON TWITTER ABOUT LOVE.
AND--
They all jumped on him
BRAWL AT THE SKATING RINK--
A SECURITY GUARD ATTACKED.
IT'S ALL CAUGHT ON SECURITY CAMERA, FOUR ANGLES OF ACTION--
SEE IT FOR YOURSELF COMING UP AT 5.
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BUMP IN W/ ANCHOR MICS
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YOU MAY REMEMBER THIS TRACK STAR KNOWN AS "BLADE RUNNER FROM THE OLYMPICS."
SOUTH AFRICAN OSCAR PISTORIOUS USED HIGH-TECH ARTIFICIAL LEGS TO WIN IN THE PAR-OLYMPICS. AND EVEN COMPETE IN THE SUMMER GAMES.
BUT TONIGHT -- HE'S IN JAIL, CHARGED WITH HIS GIRLFRIEND'S MURDER.
ABC'S LAMA HASAN HAS THE VERY LATEST.
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Oscar Pistoriuswas the first ever double amputee to compete in the Olympics.
.REMEMBERED FOR THIS POIGNANT MOMENT.WHEN HE EXCHANGED the number on
his JERSEY WITH THE MAN WHO BEAT HIM DURING THE 2012 OLYMPIC RELAY IN LONDON
.
SOT "This is a man who doesn't have any legs, and he is running against some
of the fastest men in the world.
But this morning A VERY DIFFERENT PICTURE OF THE man known around the world
as Blade Runner. UNDER ARREST AND CHARGED WITH MURDERING HIS GIRLFRIEND.
.MODEL REEVA STEENKAMP.
THE 30 YEAR OLD STEENKAMP HAD RECENTLY APPEARED ON THE COVER OF FHM.
AND WAS DUE TO APPEAR ON A REALITY SHOW.
BUT IN THE EARLY MORNING HOURS SHE WAS FOUND DEAD AT PISTORIUS' HOME.SHOT
FOUR TIMES.
POLICE WOULDN'T CONFIRM THE MOTIVE BUT SAY THIS WASN'T THE FIRST TIME
DOMESTIC DISTURBANCES WERE REPORTED IN THE HOME.
:53:40 sot from friend: i just fell apart, trying to keep it in.
MASHADI MOTSOGI LIVES NEXT DOOR AND WAS HER FRIEND.
50:52 she was always willing to listen to you, give you advice.it doesn't
feel real yet. she was such a wonderful person."
JUST YESTERDAY STEENKAMP HAD TWEETED ABOUT HER EXCITEMENT FOR VALENTINE'S
DAY.
'What do you have up your sleeve for your love tomorrow??? #getexcited #
ValentinesDay'.
Later she added.It should be a day of love for everyone: may it be
blessed!'
Oscar Pistorius will spend tonight in jail and appear in court tomorrow
morning.South African police say they will oppose any application for bail
. LH, ABC NEWS, LONDON
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THERE'S A NEW RULE OF THE ROAD AND IT TARGETS FOREIGN DRIVERS IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA.
AND MANY ARE JUST NOW FINDING OUT THEY'RE BREAKING THE LAW BEHIND THE WHEEL.
Johanne Woehrstein/Germany/17:31:23 "Why would they do that, I mean, what's the reason behind that?"
ABC7 IS GETTING THE ANSWERS.
AND TELLING YOU WHAT YOU NEED TO DRIVE IF YOU'RE NOT AN AMERICAN.
PLUS--
sot - Jim Reynolds jim: once he got us bound, then he went up to the bathroom real quick, which was real close, and came back with a couple of washcloths, stuffed one in each of our mouths. he put pillowcases over our head
BOUND AND GAGGED BY THE EX LAPD OFFICER TURNED VIOLENT KILLER--
TONIGHT THIS COUPLE EXPLAINS WHAT CHRISTOPHER DORNER DID TO THEM, WHY HE PROMISED NOT TO KILL THEM AND HOW THEY GOT AWAY.
AND THIS.
"POP"
"POP"
YOU'RE LOOKING AT WHAT'S CALLED THE SMART GUN.
MADE RIGHT IN FLORIDA.
WHY IT WILL ONLY FIRE IN THE OWNER'S YOUR HANDS AND COULD SAVE LIVES.
BUT FIRST - MEET ABC 7'S FACEBOOK WOMAN OF THE DAY.
LORETTA WHITE OF NAPLES.
THANKS FOR WATCHING LORETTA.
IF YOU'D LIKE TO BE OUR FACEBOOK WOMAN OF THE DAY HEAD TO OUR FACEBOOK PAGE AND LIKE US.
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BUMP OUT W/ MUSIC
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STORMWARN FORECAST OPEN
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RAIN CONTINUES FOR FRIDAY
Our weather across Southwest Florida changed quickly! What a difference 24 hours can make.
A cold front settled into the area last night, and when you add in strong winds in the upper atmosphere the result is a complete deluge. That is what we experienced on Thursday afternoon. I expect the heavy rains to continue through Thursday night and only lighten a little on Friday. Friday will be a cloudy day with sporadic showers and afternoon highs in the low 70s.
The front is going to clear the area early this weekend. Forecast models are hinting at some of the cloud cover lingering around for the first part of our Saturday before a stronger push of cooler and drier air scours out the moisture and delivers more sunshine by the afternoon. Chilly air will continue to filter down the state resulting in some colder nights and significantly cooler afternoons. There will be quite the chill in the air by Sunday morning as overnight lows bottom out in the lower 40s here in town with readings in the middle 30s deeper inland. Despite plenty of sunshine by Sunday, temperatures will struggle to get out of the 60s.
We'll plan on another chilly start for Monday with lows in the 40s, before another warming trend gets under way by the middle part of the work week. The rest of next week will be sunny with highs 80+.
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BREAKING NEWS OPEN
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BRAND NEW INFORMATION ON BREAKING NEWS AT SEA!
STRANDED PASSENGERS ON-BOARD A BROKEN-DOWN CRUISE SHIP CAN NOW SEE LAND --
BUT IT WILL BE SEVEN TO TEN HOURS BEFORE THEY MAKE IT THERE.
THEY HAVE JUST LEFT THE GULF AND ENTERED MOBILE BAY.
THIS IS A LIVE LOOK RIGHT NOW AT THE CARNVIAL CRUISESHIP "TRIUMPH."
IT'S HEADED TO THE ALABAMA SHORE.
30 MILES FROM THEIR DESTINATION.
THE SHIP HAS BEEN WITHOUT POWER SINCE A FIRE IN THE ENGINE ROOM SUNDAY.
ONE PASSENGER WITH A MEDICAL CONDITION WAS JUST EVACUATED OUT.
THE OTHER PASSENGERS ARE DESCRIBING
DISMAL, FILTHY CONDITIONS ONBOARD.
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phoner with donna gutzman, passenger
"there's no lights, no water. we can't flush."
sot gerry cahill, ceo, carnival cruise lines
"we are obviously very sorry about what's taking place. there is no question that conditions onboard the ship are very challenging."
THE CRUISE LINE WILL PAY FOR THE PASSENGERS' TRIPS HOME.
CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES IS ALSO GIVING 500 DOLLARS TO EACH PASSENGER.
THEY GET A REFUND ON THIS CRUISE --
AND A FREE CRUISE IN THE FUTURE.
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THOUSANDS OF FOREIGNERS IN FLORIDA MIGHT NOT EVEN KNOW THEY'RE BREAKING THE LAW RIGHT NOW --
SIMPLY BY GETTING BEHIND THE WHEEL.
THEY'RE WONDERING WHY THE STATE NOW REQUIRES A SPECIAL PERMIT FOR NON-AMERICANS TO DRIVE HERE.
ABC7'S RICK RITTER TACKLED THAT QUESTION TONIGHT.
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on cam
THE FIRST PLACE THE'YRE COMING IS HERE TO THE D-M-V. THEY'VE DELT WITH DOZENS OF TOURISTS TODAY WONDERING WHAT THIS SPECIAL PERMIT IS ALL ABOUT - MANY VISITORS FROM OUT OF THE COUNTRY THAT WE SPOKE WITH - HAD NO IDEA THE LAW WAS IN EFFECT - BUT HERE'S THE REASON WHY.
IF YOU'RE FROM OUT OF THE COUNTRY - THE PERMIT WILL PUT THE WRITING ON YOUR LICENSE IN ENGLISH - MAKING IT EASIER FOR OFFICERS AND DEPUTIES TO INTERPRET IF YOU'RE PULLED OVER OR IN A SERIOUS ACCIDENT.
THE LAW QUIETLY CAME INTO EFFECT ON JANUARY 1ST.
BUT YOU CAN ONLY GET THE PERMIT IN YOUR HOME COUNTRY FOR $25 - NOT IN THE STATE OF FLORIDA - A PROBLEM THAT MANY SEASONAL RESIDENTS WISH THEY KNEW EARLIER.
TAKE SOT
DURATION = 0:13
Keith Sutherland/Canada/17:40:41 "Wow.how come we didn't get advanced notice? I had no idea this was coming - I got the info this morning on the computer from my son in Canada. A lot of us down here don't know this."
IN COLLIER COUNTY RICK RITTER ABC7.
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WE DO HAVE SOME GOOD NEWS TONIGHT FOR ANYONE *WITHOUT THAT INTERNATIONAL DRIVING PERMIT.
F-H-P IS NOT ENFORCING THIS LAW.
THEY SAY IT COULD ACTUALLY VIOLATE THE GENEVA CONVENTION.
UNTIL THAT IS SORTED OUT, NO ONE WILL BE TICKETED *OR ARRESTED AS LONG AS THEY HAVE A VALID DRIVER'S LICENSE.
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WE COULD FIND OUT ON TUESDAY WHICH COMPANY WILL REPLACE MEDSTAR.
LEE COUNTY'S EMERGENCY HELICOPTER MEDICAL SERVICE WAS GROUNDED IN AUGUST.
THAT HAPPENED AFTER ABC7 REVEALED MORE THAN 3 MILLION DOLLARS IN IMPROPER BILLING.
FOR THE PAST FEW MONTHS --
A SPECIAL COMMITTEE HAS BEEN REVIEWING PERMANENT REPLACEMENTS.
THEY'RE RECOMMENDING "AIR METHODS CORPORATION" AS THEIR FIRST CHOICE.
THE COMPANY IS WILLING TO RELOCATE TO PAGE FIELD AND OFFERS THE LOWEST OPERATING COSTS.
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AMERICAN AIRLINES IS ABOUT TO BECOME THE WORLD'S LARGEST COMMERCIAL AIRLINE.
TODAY, AMERICAN AND U.S AIRWAYS EXECUTIVES ANNOUNCED THE TWO WILL MERGE IN A 11-BILLION DOLLAR DEAL.
THE COMBINED CARRIER WILL BE CALLED AMERICAN AIRLINES, BASED IN DALLAS, BUT RUN BY US AIRWAYS CEO DOUG PARKER.
THE DEAL MUST STILL BE APPROVED BY FEDERAL REGULATORS BEFORE FINALIZED.
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Doug Parker / CEO & Chairman US Airways:16
We expect to maintain all the hubs and destinations currently served by American Airlines and US Airways and that's great news customers and the communities we serve. Customers of both airlines can enjoy the same connections they always have plus many more as our networks come together.
THE MERGED AIRLINE WILL SERVICE AN ESTIMATED 187-MILLION PASSENGERS A YEAR.
THE NEW COMPANY WILL ALSO EMPLOYEE MORE THAN 100-THOUSAND EMPLOYEES.
THE DEAL MUST STILL BE APPROVED BY FEDERAL REGULATORS BEFORE FINALIZED.
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SO WHAT DOES THIS AIRLINE MERGER MEAN FOR YOU?
ABC7 FOUND YOU SOME ANSWERS TONIGHT.
ACCORDING TO AIR-FARE-WATCH-DOG-DOT-COM,
TICKET PRICES WON'T IMMEDIATELY GO UP.
BUT, AIRFARES WILL EVENTUALLY INCREASE WHEN THE COMBINED AIRLINE STARTS CUTTING OR COMBINING ROUTES.
BE PATIENT.
WHEN YOU FLY, YOU CAN EXPECT COMPUTER GLITCHES AND OTHER SYSTEM PROBLEMS IN THE BEGINNING --
AS THE AIRLINES BEGIN TO INTEGRATE THEIR OPERATIONS.
ALSO, ELITE-STATUS FLIERS WILL HAVE TO COMPETE MORE FOR PERKS, PARTICULARLY UPGRADES.
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THE COUPLE HELD HOSTAGE BY FIRED EX-COP CHRISTOPHER DORNER ARE SHARING THE DETAILS ABOUT THEIR HARROWING ORDEAL.
sot - Jim Reynolds jim: once he got us bound, then he went up to the bathroom real quick, which was real close, and came back with a couple of washcloths, stuffed one in each of our mouths and he put pillowcases over our head
JIM AND KAREN REYNOLDS GOT THE SHOCK OF THEIR LIFE
WHEN THEY WENT TO CHECK ON ONE OF THEIR SKI CABINS.
THAT'S WHEN THEY DISCOVERED DORNER.
THEY IMMEDIATELY RECOGNIZED.
DORNER TIED THEM UP , TELLING THEM HE JUST NEEDED THEIR CAR.
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Karen "He told us about the man in the boat in san diego"
Jim - "How he didn't kill him, Wasn't going to kil us"
Karen - "Yeah said it was and means to the end with that man and that's what he wants from us. He needs transportation out of big bear"
AFTER FLEEING THE REYNOLD'S CABIN--
DORNER MOVED TO ANOTHER ONE IN THE AREA
WHERE HE ENGAGED IN A SHOOTOUT WITH POLICE.
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WE HAVE NEW DETAILS ABOUT THE POPE'S HEALTH --
THE REASON HE GAVE FOR RESIGNING.
TODAY WE LEARNED POPE BENEDICT HIT HIS HEAD
WHILE VISITING MEXICO LAST MARCH.
THE 85-YEAR-OLD DECIDED TO RESIGN AFTER THAT TRIP.
HE SAYS IT WAS PHYSICALLY EXHAUSTING.
AT THE END OF THE MONTH, POPE BENEDICT IS EXPECTED
TO BECOME THE FIRST PONTIFF TO RESIGN 600 YEARS.
HIS SUCCESSOR WILL BE CHOOSEN IN MID MARCH.
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BEATDOWN AT THE SKAING RINK IN OREGON!
AND A SECURITY GUARD IS CAUGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF IT ALL--
THE MASSIVE BRAWL WAS CAUGHT ON TAPE.
TAKE A LOOK.
DURING IT ONE OF THE SECURITY GUARDS -- RAN OVER TO BREAK IT UP.
OFFICERS SAY A GROUP OF ABOUT FOUR TO FIVE THEN ATTACKED THE GUARD.
ONE OF THE TEENS EVEN PUNCHED THE GUARD IN THE FACE.
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They all jumped on him, and then the rest of the staff broke that up, and soon as they jumped in and pulled everyone off of everybody, they all ran out the door.
LUCKILY, NO ONE WAS SERIOUSLY HURT.
OFFICERS ARE STILL INVESTIGATING WHAT STARTED THE FIGHT AND HOPING THE VIDEO WILL HELP THEM TRACK DOWN THE PEOPLE INVOLVED.
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ALTHOUGH IT'S THE SWEETEST DAY OF THE YEAR --
THERE'S ONE CANDY OUT THERE YOU DON'T WANT YOUR KIDS EATING THIS VALENTINE'S DAY.
LOOK AT YOUR SCREENS.
POLICE IN OREGON SAY "WEED CANDY" IS SHOWING UP AT AREA SCHOOLS.
THE SMALL HARD CANDY COMES IN THE SHAPE OF A SKULL.
AND IT'S INFUSED WITH MARIJUANA.
IT DOESN'T HAVE A SMELL SO IT'S HARD TO SPOT.
THE CANDY COSTS ANYWHERE FROM ONE TO FIVE DOLLARS APIECE.
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AS THE GUN DEBATE RAGES ON NEW TECHNOLOGY IS BEING DEVELOPED RIGHT HERE IN FLORIDA FOR SO-CALLED SMART GUNS.
THE WEAPON WOULD BE PERSONALIZED--
AND IT WOULD ONLY FIRE IN THE OWNER'S HAND.
TOM COSTELLO REPORTS.
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WHAT IF. THE GUN THAT ADAM LANZA STOLE FROM HIS MOTHER TO KILL 20 CHILDREN AND SIX ADULTS IN NEWTOWN, CONNECTICUT.WHAT IF THAT GUN HAD REFUSED TO WORK ?
A "SMART GUN" THAT COULD ONLY BE FIRED BY ITS AUTHORIZED OWNER?
.THE KIND OF TECHNOLOGY WE SEE IN THE LATEST 007 MOVIE."SKYFALL":
"There's a micro dermal sensor in the grip. It's been coded to your palm print so only you can fire it. Less of a random killing machine and more of a personal statement."
IT TURNS OUT, IT'S NOT JUST IN THE MOVIES:
"If you take it from me within seconds, the light turns red. And if you give it back to me, it's green again."
THE TECHNOLOGY ALREADY EXISTS BOTH IN HANDGUNS.
"POP"
"POP"
AND RIFLES.
"POP"
"POP"
WITH THE iGUN RIFLE, IT'S ALL ABOUT THE MICRO-CHIP INSIDE THE RING THAT THE GUN OWNER WEARS.
WHEN THAT RING TOUCHES THE HANDGRIP, THE CHIP TRANSMITS A CODE TO A RECEIVER IN THE RIFLE:
"It's looking for a particular code, if it does not find that code it does not unlock."
INVENTOR JONATHAN MOSSBERG CALLS IT'S ANOTHER LAYER OF SAFETY:
"Safety off, without the ring, it does not fire. With the ring, it does fire. "
.DESIGNED FOR PARENTS TO KEEP GUNS AWAY FROM CHILDREN, OR ANYONE WHO FEARS THEIR OWN GUN COULD BE USED AGAINST THEM:
"It may be a homeowner in a certain situation. It may be an air marshall, it may be a teacher who chooses to uh carry a firearm."
WITH THE GERMAN-MADE "ARMATIX" HANDGUN, IT'S A PIN CODE, EMBEDDED IN A WATCH:
"So in my hand, it's not going to shoot - it's red.
But when I give it to him.POP, POP, POP"
BUT THE NRA BELIEVES IT COULD BE A FIRST STEP TO GUN CONTROL.
"This is really all sorta kinda pie-in-the sky and hypothetical."
NRA PRESIDENT DAVID KEENE SAYS SMART GUN TECHNOLOGY COULD DRIVE UP THE COST OF A GUN.
AND HE QUESTIONS WHETHER IT WOULD BE RELIABLE WHEN AN OWNER NEEDED THE GUN FOR SELF-DEFENSE.
"What we really need is not smart guns and this and that or the prohibition of firearms, what we really need is training and education."
BUT GUN POLICY ADVOCATES POINT TO THE 500-THOUSAND GUNS ARE STOLEN EVERY YEAR AND 600 PEOPLE WHO ARE KILLED IN ACCIDENTAL SHOOTINGS.
"Putting technology in guns isn't going to save every gun death from happening, but it has the opportunity to save many lives."
TECHNOLOGY THAT MAY SOON BE READY TO MOVE FROM THE MOVIES.
Bond: "Good luck with that."
.TO MAIN STREET.
#
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TOM COSTELLO REPORTING.
THE NRA FEARS THAT IF A POLICE OFFICER NEEDED HIS SMART GUN TO WORK, AND IT DIDN'T, THE CONSEQUENCES COULD BE DEADLY.
AND SO FAR, NO POLICE DEPARTMENT HAS AGREED TO USE THE GUNS.
BUT SMART GUNS ARE ALREADY BEING SOLD IN EUROPE AND ASIA.
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NEXT AT 5 OPEN
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SOT
11;11-11:19
this is my first valentines day with her
THE LINES FOR LOVE.
IF YOU WAITED LAST MINUTE YOU MIGHT HAVE TO WAIT A LITTLE LONGER.EVEN PAY A LITTLE MORE.TO CELEBRATE YOUR VALENTINE.
AND IF YOU'RE READY TO RID YOURSELF OF THAT EX ON THIS VALENTINE'S DAY.
THERE'S ONE PLACE HELPING YOU DUMP THE JERK AND SPREAD GOODWILL.
WE TELL YOU ALL ABOUT IT.
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BREAKING NEWS OPEN
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FAMILIES OF THE PEOPLE STUCK ON THE CRUISE SHIP TRIUMPH ARE ANXIOUSLY WAITING ON A DOCK IN MOBILE ALABAMA RIGHT NOW.
MORE THAN 200 CARNIVAL EMPLOYEES ARE ALSO STAGED THERE TO HELP PEOPLE OFF ONCE IT ARRIVES.
THAT WON'T BE FOR ANOTHER SEVEN-TO TEN HOURS.
WE HAVE JUST LEARNED THE CARNIVAL CRUISE CALL CENTER IN MIAMI HAS FIELDED MORE THAN SEVEN-THOUSAND CALLED FROM WORRIED FAMILIES MEMBERS AND THE MEDIAl.
THE CRUISE SHIP WILL BE THE LARGEST ONE *EVER TO DOCK AT THE PORT OF MIAMI.
WE ARE MONITORING ALL OF THE LIVE FEEDS -- WE WILL BRING YOU THAT MOMENT ONCE IT HAPPENS.
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JP WEATHER OPEN
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AD-LIB WEATHER CHAT
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THIS WEATHERCAST HAS BEEN PREPARED BY THE ABC7 WEATHER STAFF.
IT IS NOT A VERBATIM OF WHAT IS BEING SAID, BUT IS THE FORECAST FOR OUR AREA.
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RAIN CONTINUES FOR FRIDAY
Our weather across Southwest Florida changed quickly! What a difference 24 hours can make.
A cold front settled into the area last night, and when you add in strong winds in the upper atmosphere the result is a complete deluge. That is what we experienced on Thursday afternoon. I expect the heavy rains to continue through Thursday night and only lighten a little on Friday. Friday will be a cloudy day with sporadic showers and afternoon highs in the low 70s.
The front is going to clear the area early this weekend. Forecast models are hinting at some of the cloud cover lingering around for the first part of our Saturday before a stronger push of cooler and drier air scours out the moisture and delivers more sunshine by the afternoon. Chilly air will continue to filter down the state resulting in some colder nights and significantly cooler afternoons. There will be quite the chill in the air by Sunday morning as overnight lows bottom out in the lower 40s here in town with readings in the middle 30s deeper inland. Despite plenty of sunshine by Sunday, temperatures will struggle to get out of the 60s.
We'll plan on another chilly start for Monday with lows in the 40s, before another warming trend gets under way by the middle part of the work week. The rest of next week will be sunny with highs 80+.
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HAPPENING RIGHT NOW --
THE RAIN COULDN'T STOP DOZENS OF COUPLES AT LOVERS KEY ON FORT MYERS BEACH.
THIS IS A LIVE LOOK.
THEY'RE RENEWING THEIR VOWS IN A SPECIAL VALENTINE'S DAY EVENT.
THIS IS THE FOURTH YEAR FOR THE VOW RENEWAL CEREMONY AT THE GAZEBO ON THE BEACH.
BEFORE THE CEREMONY COUPLES GET A COMPLIMENTARY GLASS OF WINE and HORS D'OEUVRES.
THERE'S A RECEPTION AFTERWARD WITH FOOD, DRINK AND DANCING!
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TIME IS RUNNING OUT IF YOU HAVEN'T BOUGHT YOUR SPECIAL SOMEONE A VALENTINE'S DAY GIFT.
MANY PEOPLE HAVE BEEN WAITING TO THE LAST MINUTE.
ABC7's NICK CILETTI FOUND LONG LINES THROUGHOUT SOUTHWEST FLORIDA TODAY.
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IF YOUR SWEETHEART HAS A HANKERING FOR CHOCOLATE BE PREPARED TO WAIT IN LINE
SOT
PIERRO DESRIOS
SHOPPER
17:44-48
it's not stressful waiting til the last minute?
A bit!
THIS WOMAN IS JUST ONE OF THE THOUSAND AHOPPERS NORMAN LOVE IN FORT MYERS EXPECTS TO SERVE TODAY
THE STORE WAS SO BUSY.A DEPUTY FROM LCSO WA BROUGHT IN TO HELP WITH CROWD CONTROL!
SOT
NORMAN LOVE
OWNER
"most people especially men and including myself are procrastinators and wait til the last minute
18:17-22
SHOPPERS AT NORMAB LOVE AREN'T THE OBLY ONES PUTTING OFF THE SWEETHEART SHOPPING
HERE AT LUSH BAKERY IN FORT MYERS SHOPPERS HAVE BEEN COMING IN ALL DAY TO GIVE THEIR HEARTS AWAY.THE EDIBLE kind!
SOT
STEVE CHESKO
MANAGER
13:25-28
We're about three times as busy as normal!
AND IT WAS MORE OF THE SAME AT THE FORT MYERS FLORIST WHERE THE PHONE RANG OFF THE HOOK.
WE DID FIND INE CUSTOMER AND HIS LITTLE BOY WHO PLANNED AHEAD FOR A SPECIAL LADY
SOT
MIKE PITSLEY
CAPE CORAL
14:40-46
I didn't want until the last minute! I was in here two days ago to order.
NO MATTER RUSHED OR PREPARED, THE SENTIMENT IS THE SAME FOR ALL
SOT
11;11-11:19
this is my first valentines day with her so I want to let her know she's special and hopefully she'll appreciate that!
NICK CILETTI, ABC7.
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THE CHOCOLATE SALON AT NORMAN LOVE IN FORT MYERS IS CLOSED RIGHT NOW.
BUT YOU CAN STILL FIND SELECT CHOCOLATES AT THE ARTISAN GELATO.
THAT'S OPEN UNTIL 7 TONIGHT.
THE LOCATION IN NAPLES IS OPEN UNTIL 9.
AND OF COURSE THERE ARE MANY OTHER PLACES THAT SELL CHOCOLATE AND FLOWERS THAT ARE STILL OPEN AS WELL.
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SOME LUCKY VALENTINES GOT A SWEET SERENADE TODAY.
WATCH AND LISTEN!
SINGING
THE 'TROPICAL DEPRESSIONS' QUARTET SANG TO SWEETHEARTS ACROSS SOUTHWEST FLORIDA!
THEY SURPRISED PEOPLE AT HOME OR AT WORK AS A GIFT FROM THEIR VALENTINES.
WE CAUGHT UP WITH THE GROUP AS THEY SANG TO ONE OF THEIR OWN WIVES DURING A SCULPTURE CLASS--
WITH ROSES AND A LOVE SONG.
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"My husband and his quartet who I thought were out singing valentines to a lot of others ca$e and surprised me, really surprised me I couldn't believe it."
"When we sing our first song and we see the lady tear up, some of us also tear up, and they think of their husband and their sweetheart and we see that happening and its just all worthwhile."
THESE GUYS ARE ONE OF FIVE QUARTETS FROM THE 'PARADISE COASTMEN BARBERSHOP CHORUS'--
THEY'RE SET TO SING TO 70 VALENTINES THROUGHOUT THE WEEK.
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THIS VALENTINE'S DAY, GOODWILL IS HOPING TO ATTRACT PEOPLE AGAINST THE HOLIDAY.
THEY ARE ASKING PEOPLE TO GET OUT THOSE CARDBOARD BOXES FILLED WITH YOUR EX'S "STUFF" AND DONATE IT TO THE ORGANIZATION.
IT'S PART OF A "DUMP THEIR STUFF" CAMPAIGN.
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"So, we all have one ex-girlfriend, ex-spouse.you got all those things around that remind you of him or her. Maybe it's things he or she might have given you, put them to good use."
ULTIMATELY, GOODWILL SAYS THE PURCHASES FUND JOB PLACEMENT PROGRAMS WHICH PUT 8-HUNDRED PEOPLE BACK TO WORK LAST YEAR.
AND IT'S ALSO A WAY TO TRANSFORM YOUR PAST. INTO ANOTHER PERSON'S FUTURE.
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LADY GAGA'S HURT WORSE THAN SOME THOUGHT.
THE POP STAR IS NOW CANCELLING THE REST OF HER TOUR BECAUSE OF A HIP INJURY.
WE TOLD YOU YESTERDAY LADY GAGA POSTPONED FOUR TOUR DATES.
SHE'S BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH SYNOVITIS, A SEVERE INFLAMMATION OF THE JOINTS
LAST NIGHT, SHE ANNOUNCED ALL OF HER PERFORMANCES THROUGH MARCH 20TH WERE NOW CANCELED.
THAT INCLUDES TAMPA, SUNRISE AND MIAMI CONCERTS SET FOR MID-MARCH.
FANS WHO HAVE ALREADY BOUGHT TICKETS FOR THE "BORN THIS WAY BALL" TOUR WILL GET REFUNDS.
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KIM KARDASHIAN AND KANYE WEST CAUSED A SECURITY SCARE AT NEW YORK'S JFK AIRPORT.
IT HAPPENED TUESDAY AFTER AN AIRLINE EMPLOYEE ALLOWED THE COUPLE TO BYPASS A SECURITY CHECKPOINT.
BLOWING THROUGH THE SECURITY CHECKPOINT PROMPTED TSA OFFICIALS TO PULL THE COUPLE OFF THEIR FLIGHT TO CALIFORNIA TO CONDUCT THE PROPER SCREENING.
THEY WERE EVENTUALLY CLEARED TO BOARD THEIR FLIGHT, WHICH DEPARTED AFTER ABOUT A 50-MINUTE DELAY.
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THE MISS AMERICA PAGEANT IS RETURNING TO ATLANTIC CITY IN SEPTEMBER.
NEW JERSEY'S LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR ANNOUNCED THE DEAL TODAY.
IT WILL TAKE PLACE THERE FOR THE NEXT THREE YEARS AND AIR RIGHT HERE ON ABC7.
THE PAGEANT WAS AN ATLANTIC CITY FIXTURE UNTIL 2006.
THAT'S WHEN ORGANIZERS MOVED IT TO LAS VEGAS IN HOPES OF ATTRACTING A YOUNGER TV AUDIENCE.
IT WAS HELD FOR SIX YEARS OUT IN VEGAS.
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"This guy wants to be stupid, but I got a bigger knife than him
MUCH BIGGER, IT'S A SWORD!
AND YOU CAN SEE THIS CLERK IN ACTION, BEATING OFF A ROBBER.
AND THIS ISN'T HIS FIRST TIME FIGHTING BACK.
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BUMP IN W/ ANCHOR MICS
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A STORE CLERK IN MASSACHUSETTS REFUSES TO BE A VICTIM!
CONFRONTED BY A ROBBER WITH A KNIFE,
HE PULLED OUT A SWORD.
IT WAS ALL CAUGHT ON TAPE.
BRIAN CRANDALL FOUND OUT IT WASN'T THE FIRST TIME HE FOUGHT BACK --
USING THE CREDO "MY KNIFE'S BIGGER THAN YOURS."
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BRIAN PATEL IS QUICKLY BECOMING AN EXPERT ON FIGHTING OFF CROOKS.
THE NEW BEDFORD STORE CLERK PULLED A SWORD ON A BAD GUY WHO CAME INTO LUCKY 7 GROCERY TUESDAY AROUND NOON.
"He said, 'Give me the money,' and he pulled out a big knife."
IN THIS SECURITY CAMERA VIDEO THAT'S ONLY ON 10, PATEL THEN PULLED OUT A BIGGER ONE FROM BEHIND THE COUNTER. A FOUR FOOT SWORD KEPT FOR THIS VERY REASON.
"I took that out and I cursed at him and said, 'Come here, I'll give you some money.'"
THE BANDIT QUICKLY REALIZED HE DIDN'T WANT ANY PIECE OF THAT.
AND PATEL KNEW HE HAD THE UPPER HAND.
"This guy wants to be stupid, but I got a bigger knife than him and he's either gonna get killed or get hurt either one, and he made the right choice to go away."
PATEL IS NOT ONE TO BACK DOWN.
JUST OVER A YEAR AGO, INSIDE THE SAME STORE, PATEL FOUGHT OFF ANOTHER ROBBER.
IN THAT CONFRONTATION, SEEN HERE, THE SUSPECT HAD A KNIFE.
BUT THAT DIDN'T STOP PATEL. HE PUNCHED THE GUY IN THE FACE EVEN AS HE WAS BEING STABBED.
PATEL SAYS THE SWORD WAS IN THE STORE BACK THEN, TOO, HE JUST COULDN'T GET TO IT.
WE CAUGHT UP WITH PATEL AT ANOTHER SHOP HE WORKS AT.
HE WANTS TO SEND A CLEAR MESSAGE NO MATTER WHERE HE IS.
: "Why fight? Why not just give people the money if they come in?"
"Yeah, he's going to come in tomorrow, he's going to come into this store and rob again and he's like a millionaire after that. It's not good to give it up because they're going to do it over and over again."
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3823 "this isn't just effecting us. This is effecting all the boaters in SWFL."
AND TONIGHT AUTHORITIES ARE ANALYZING THIS VIDEO--
A BRAZEN THIEF CAUGHT IN THE ACT--
BURGLARIZING BOATS, MAKING OFF WITH THOUSANDS IN PRICEY ELECTRONICS.
TO CATCH A CRIMINAL--
THE FORT MYERS POLICE CHIEF HAS A NEW PLAN--
HE'S SENDING LETTERS TO THE CITY'S MOST VIOLENT CRIMINALS
WHAT HE'S TELLING THEM.
AND--
10:55 maybe by summer there will be a little baby simba here 57
ONE LION GOT A VERY SPECIAL GIFT THIS
VALENTINE'S DAY--
A GIRLFRIEND!
WE'LL SHOW YOU THE LION LOVE CONNECTION -
ABC-NEWS AT SIX IS BACK IN 2 MINUTES.
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AD LIB GOODBYE
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