British novelist debuts historical mystery in St. Pete next week
Praised as “The Night Circus” meets “Water for Elephants,” this novel set in 1920s Chicago and Paris follows an orphan as she acquires a sinister antique carousel that makes people disappear. A French detective investigates the carousel's connection to a decade-old Parisian mystery. The post British novelist debuts...
School choice selections now open in Manatee County schools
Within the School District of Manatee County, rezoning is the hot topic. However, according to Associate Superintendent Kevin Chapman, for the first time in recent memory, many East County schools that have been closed to school choice due to capacity now have a strong possibility of being open. What is...
We need USF Sarasota-Manatee to remain open | Letters
USF Sarasota-Manatee remains vital asset I strongly disagree with guest columnist Nate March dismissing the need for the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus (" Sarasota exit makes sense for University of South Florida ," Dec. 31). Years ago – as a single mother teaching school in this area while completing my master's...
I-75 Delayed 20 minutes due to crash
SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - Morning commuters are faced with a 20 minute delay on I-75 approaching Fruitville Rd. The southbound backup, spanning nearly 10 miles, is due to a crash blocking 2 lanes. Drivers should expect the slow traffic to start near State Road 64.
‘Florida Man Games’ set to return in Bradenton
The 2026 Florida Man Games will be held Feb. 21 at the Freedom Factory racetrack in Bradenton, organizers announced, bringing the tongue-in-cheek competition closer to the Tampa Bay area after last year’s event in northeast Florida.
Driver of stolen vehicle dies after pursuit, crash in Palmetto: MCSO
PALMETTO, Fla. (WFLA) — A man is dead after a pursuit with a stolen vehicle ended in a crash. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office received an alert about a stolen vehicle from Hillsborough County traveling in the 7300 block of U.S. 41 in Palmetto around 8 p.m. Monday. Deputies said they located the stolen Honda […]
Florida has a homey restaurant quietly serving unforgettable fried shrimp
Along the coast of Florida, a homey restaurant has built a loyal following without fanfare or flash. Picnic tables, salty air, and the steady rhythm of the water create a setting that feels easygoing, unpolished, and quietly special. It’s the kind of place where the atmosphere puts you at ease before the food even...
A popular Sarasota County, FL, diner, Metro Diner, was cited for 13 violations
A Sarasota County, FL, Metro Diner on South Tamiami Trail received 13 violations during a December 29, 2025 routine inspection. Five high-priority violations were documented, including food held at unsafe temperatures.
Enduring Love: FAMU Sweethearts Share 48 Years of Marriage Secrets
The Rutleges, both retired educators and Florida A&M University alumni, appeared on “Couples Cafe” with “Let’s Talk About It with the Turners” and shared highlights of their 48-year marriage and the principles that have sustained it.
Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Anna Maria Sound Raised $7,525 in Support of Friends of...
Compass Hotel Anna Maria Sound, a boutique hotel by the Margaritaville brand in Manatee County, announced today that it has raised $7,525 in support of Friends of Manatee County Animal Welfare, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the county’s shelter system by raising funds for medical care, resources,...

















