Local Business
Thursday, April 23, 2026 · Lee County
Ford Recalls 422K Vehicles Over Risky Wiper Failures
Ford Motor Co. is recalling 422,613 vehicles nationwide after federal regulators flagged windshield wiper arms that can break and blind drivers in bad weather. The defect affects popular Expeditions, Navigators and Super Duty trucks, heightening crash risks with no reported injuries yet. Owners face free inspections and replacements amid production fixes already in place.
FDA Escalates Cantaloupe Recall to Deadly Risk Level Amid Salmonella Scare
The FDA has upgraded a massive cantaloupe recall to its highest Class I risk category, warning that tainted melons could cause serious illness or death. Florida-based Ayco Farms pulled 8,302 cartons shipped to four states, with consumers urged to check freezers for lingering fruit. No illnesses reported yet, but the severity underscores fresh produce vulnerabilities.
Thursday, April 23, 2026
Best Buy Taps Insider Jason Bonfig as Next CEO in Smooth Handover
Best Buy Co. Inc. named Jason Bonfig, its chief customer, product and fulfillment officer, as the incoming CEO, replacing Corie Barry effective November 1, 2026. The Minneapolis-based retailer announced the succession Tuesday amid retail shifts toward e-commerce and supply chain agility. Bonfig, a 20-year veteran, will steer the company as its sixth CEO in 60 years.
Thursday, April 23, 2026
One-Third of Americans Have Zero Retirement Savings Amid Savings Crisis
A stark new BlackRock survey reveals one-third of U.S. registered voters have no retirement savings, with 63% holding under $150,000. Despite the shortfall, 71% back Trump Accounts—government-funded savings for newborns—as a fix. The findings, released ahead of a national retirement summit, signal urgent calls for policy action.
Thursday, April 23, 2026
Santa Cruz Rentals Demand $81 Hourly Wage, Worst in U.S. for 3rd Year
Santa Cruz County tops the nation's least affordable rental markets again, where a modest two-bedroom apartment requires an eye-watering $81.21 hourly wage. That's equivalent to 3.7 full-time jobs for the average local renter, amid California's soaring housing crisis. The stark disparity highlights a national affordability chasm widening by nearly 30% since 2023.
Thursday, April 23, 2026
Get to Know You Better: Help Us Improve Your Experience by Completing Our Customer Survey
Lee County residents are invited to complete a new customer survey to help shape future local services and programs, providing valuable feedback on community needs.
Thursday, April 23, 2026
Why Young Adults in Lee County Need an Estate Plan (Even If You Think You Don’t)
Young adults in Lee County are encouraged to consider estate planning, as local experts highlight its importance for medical decisions, financial management, and guardianship, regardless of age or current assets.
Thursday, April 23, 2026
Get to Know You Better: Help Us Improve Your Experience by Completing Our Customer Survey
Lee County residents are invited to complete a new customer survey launched today, April 8, 2026, to help improve local services and shape future community initiatives.
Thursday, April 23, 2026
