Artist’s work accepted in Embracing Our Differences competition for third time
VENICE — For the third time, Venice resident Wayne Ramirez, the son of Puerto Rican immigrants, has had a painting accepted in the annual Embracing Our Differences competition.
St. Pete tower receives approval despite opposition
Long-debated plans to demolish seven structures within the Downtown St. Petersburg National Register Historic District and build a 21-story, $134 million luxury apartment tower can now move forward. Development Review Commissioners voted 4-1 Wednesday to approve the 370-unit project, dubbed The Pelican. Their...
Sarasota’s rally for democracy in Iran
SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - As protests continue across Iran and demands for democracy grow, members of the local community have organized a peaceful solidarity gathering to stand with the Iranian people. The event is scheduled for Jan. 11, starting at 2:30 p.m., by the Unconditional Statue at Marina Jack in...
Weekend events offer family fun across Suncoast area
SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - The first weekend of the year features multiple family-friendly events across the Suncoast area, with activities ranging from food trucks to wellness expos. The North Jetty Food Truck Rally begins at 5 p.m. Friday at North Jetty Park in Nokomis. The event will feature yard games,...
Kayak tours help veterans heal
SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - Veterans are invited to participate in free therapeutic guided kayak tours designed to help those living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) through connection with nature and camaraderie. The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program (SBEP), in partnership with Wayne Adventures, launched the...
Major hotel with restaurant, bar and cafe planned for Sarasota County
South Sarasota County’s Downtown Wellen Park is once again growing . A new hotel, Wellmar, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel by Marriott, is breaking ground in the area this month, with construction beginning immediately afterward. The five-story hotel will feature 149 guestrooms, food-and-beverage venues, resort-style...
St. Pete doctor creates program to help neurodivergent thrive
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — A new approach to supporting the neurodivergent community focuses on helping people thrive on their own terms. Neurodivergent is used to describe people whose brains process information, learn, and behave differently from other people, while it also encompasses conditions like autism, ADHD and...
Financial benefits get expanded for Americans living with disabilities in 2026
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Like many Americans, 71-year-old Joanne Newton is searching for mobility solutions as movement has gotten tougher over the years. "Knee trouble, back trouble," Newton said. "I had several injuries." Newton says, each day, she's had to pay more attention to what areas are accessible and...
Southside Elementary Marks 100 Years of Academic Excellence
SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - Southside Elementary School celebrated a major milestone Friday morning, marking 100 years of academic excellence. The Centennial Celebration brought together current and former students, staff, families and community leaders for a program of memories, music and student voices that highlighted...
North Port nonprofit leaders discuss purposes, needs
NORTH PORT — Some nonprofits that have always helped keep the community grounded now are facing concerns about their own future.
