SpaceX is planning to build a new project in Florida, records say
The commercial spaceflight company filed preliminary paperwork to build a satellite communications facility in Myakka City, according to Manatee County records. SpaceX, which Elon Musk founded in 2002, has become a leader in aerospace and is known for its rocket launches and partnership with NASA. The proposal calls...
Sarasota residents prepare for anticipated heavy rainfall
Sarasota County opened up three self-serve sandbag sites Wednesday ahead of the anticipated heavy rainfall this week.
The Mango’s Deep Roots in America Started in Manatee County
In certain academic circles, there’s a fierce debate over which fruit Eve gave Adam in the Garden of Eden. The King James Bible asserted it was an apple. Rabbis have claimed it was a grape turned into boozy wine, while other scholars have argued it was likely more regional fruit like pomegranates, figs or tamarinds....
Powerful Florida developer hears a rare response from Manatee County: No!
There’s a tradition that when someone sings Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus,” everyone has to stand. So please rise as I warble several heartfelt hallelujahs over what the Manatee County Commission did last week. The headline in the Sarasota Herald-Tribune tells only half the story: “Manatee County commissioners deny...
After trying ‘everything,’ this Manatee pizzeria will close after 30 years
A longtime Manatee County pizzeria is closing its doors. Raven Pizza, a Parrish staple since 1995, is serving its last slice on July 12. Owner Riccardo Ossola announced on social media that the restaurant, located at 8255 U.S. 301 North, is closing due to Hurricane Milton’s devastating impact, equipment damage and...
Convicted felon charged in $3 million construction fraud scheme across 7 counties
A Sarasota man is facing multiple felony charges after allegedly defrauding construction clients in a multi-county scheme worth more than $3 million, Attorney General James Uthmeier announced. Seth Bloom, who has a prior felony conviction, was arrested June 25 following a joint investigation by the Office of...
This Haunted-Themed Cocktail Bar In Orlando Serves Spooky Drinks In A Movie-Worthy Gothic Setting
If your idea of a perfect night includes eerie ambiance, spine-chilling cocktails, and a side of campy fun, Cocktails & Screams in downtown Orlando might just be your dream haunt. Equal parts horror movie set and upscale bar, this spooky speakeasy delivers a devilishly good time that’s far from ordinary.
Sarasota woman waiting on $60,000 IRS refund after year of delays
Tricia Bolds is frustrated after waiting a year for a $60,000 refund from the Internal Revenue Service, especially since the IRS sent her a letter notifying her that the check was already sent.
Court records: Man who helped rescue Bradenton girl from shark attack detained by ICE
COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. — A man who dived into the water to help rescue a little girl who was attacked by a shark in southwest Florida is now being held by immigration officials, according to court records. Luis Alvarez, 31, was pulled over at 1:49 a.m. on June 14...
Here’s where sandbags are available in the Tampa Bay area with heavy rain expected
TAMPA, Fla. - The threat of heavy rain over the next few days is leading some Tampa Bay area counties to offer sandbags for residents who may need them. Here's a look at where, and when, sandbags are available. Hernando County. Linda Pedersen Park, 6300 Shoal Line Blvd., Spring Hill.