Sydney Hardy Wins 800 Free, 400 IM to Head Sarasota’s Leading Effort at Plantation...
The Sarasota Sharks are famous for their performances in distance races, and Sydney Hardy has carried that torch well so far this week at Sectionals. Stock photo via Jack Spitser/Spitser Photography. 2026 Plantation Spring Sectionals. February 12-15, 2026. Plantation, Florida. Long Course Meters (50 meters),...
Discover the Hidden Treasure of Freshness at Geraldson’s Family Farm
In the heart of Bradenton lies a gem that feels more like a secret club for fresh produce lovers—Geraldson’s Family Farm. This family-owned establishment isn’t just a place to shop; it’s a delightful experience that connects visitors to the local agricultural scene. With its welcoming atmosphere and an array of...
Sarasota County firefighters urge preparedness amid drought conditions
The Tampa Bay area is experiencing severe drought conditions, heightening the possibility for wildfires to spread.
Community Foundation of Sarasota County Grants Will Improve Nonprofits’ Operations and Boost Self-Sufficiency
The Community Foundation of Sarasota County recently awarded a total of $163,300 in Capacity Building grants to 21 nonprofits. The aim of this round of funding is to help organizations improve fundraising strategies, streamline operations, manage data and invest in technological infrastructure. The Community...
Local officials say state should let them do their jobs
VENICE — The state needs to stop eroding local authority and let city and county officials do their jobs, Mayor Nick Pachota and County Commissioner Tom Knight said at Friday’s Venice Area Chamber of Commerce 2026 Community Scorecard Breakfast.
Sarasota Memorial Health Expands Hospitals and Rehabilitation Centers Through $1 Billion Capital Investment
Sarasota Memorial Health Care System (SMH) is moving forward with more than $1 billion in capital projects aimed at expanding medical services and strengthening access to high-quality care across southwest Florida. Supported by strong financial ratings and steady patient growth, the health system is investing in new...
Sarasota area mourns Venice pilots killed on Haiti supply mission
Venice-based Agape Flights in south Sarasota County has identified the two pilots who were killed in a Feb. 10 crash while flying supplies to Haiti. Agape Flights lost contact with Patrick Decker and Kory Elleby while they were flying over a mountainous region near Jérémie, Haiti. The aircraft, N316AF, an Embraer 110...
‘Athletic country club’ coming to Lakewood Ranch with new fitness center
A new luxury fitness facility is coming to Lakewood Ranch. Located at 5000 Lakewood Ranch Blvd. N., on the Sarasota County side south of University Parkway, Life Time is building an 86,000-square-foot facility projected to open in Fall 2026. Dubbed an “athletic country club,” Life Time offers resort-style amenities,...
Deputies rescue dog from canal
MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. (WWSB) - A frightened female dog is recovering after deputies rescued her from a canal near Bryn Mawr Island on Sunday. Lt. Dwyer and Deputy Hart with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) responded after the dog was spotted struggling to swim in a canal in Bayshore Gardens. The deputies...
“Love Your Neighbor — For the Love of America” rally in Venice
VENICE, Fla. (WWSB) - The Venice Resistance and Florida Indivisible held a “Love Your Neighbor — For the Love of America” rally on Valentine’s Day in support of communities impacted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The event took place Feb. 14 at the corner...

















