Suncoast reacts to Nicolas Maduro’s capture
SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - Demonstrations are breaking out across the globe following the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro by the United States, a development that has sparked celebration, relief, and debate among Venezuelans living abroad. For Venezuelans on the Suncoast, the news marks what many hope is...
The best things to do in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Longboat for Jan. 8-14
4 p.m. at Sarasota City Hall, 1575 Second St. The city of Sarasota is refreshing its “Now You See Us, Petticoat Painters 1953-2025” exhibit that began in March 2025 and is inviting the public to come meet seven of the newest members of the Sarasota female artists group that dates back to the 1950s and see a...
$9M Sarasota home has front-row seats to the Ringling Bridge
At certain addresses, the view becomes the headline. At 1418 John Ringling Parkway, the daily backdrop is a steady procession of boats beneath the John Ringling Bridge, sunrise reflections across Sarasota Bay, and the glow of the city skyline after dark. Set along the waterfront in Sarasota’s Lido Shores...
Family returns from dinner to find a car had crashed into their house
SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - A Sarasota County family returned from dinner Friday evening to find a car had crashed directly into their home on Gulf Gate Drive while they were out. The homeowners were alerted by a neighbor who called to tell them a car had slammed into their house. Debris and shattered glass were...
Neighborhood advocate enters race for Sarasota City Commission
Arlington Park neighborhood advocate Flo Entler has announced her candidacy for one of two at-large seats on the Sarasota City Commission, both of which are up for grabs in 2026. A frequent speaker before the commission, the Long Island, New York native moved to Sarasota 37 years ago after earning...
Reggae Rise Up Announces Florida & Arizona 2026 Lineups Featuring Sublime, De La Soul,...
After a year of record-breaking ticket sales, Reggae Rise Up Florida returns to Vinoy Park in Downtown St. Petersburg on March 12 – 15, 2026. The state’s most beloved reggae celebration and the nation’s largest touring reggae festival once again brings an electrifying roster of top talent to the Gulf Coast. This...
St. Pete police looking for masked robbers who pepper-sprayed CVS clerks
Two masked robbers made their getaway Monday night after dousing the clerks at a CVS with pepper spray, St. Pete police said.
Southern Manatee Fire Rescue Mourns the Loss of Off-Duty Firefighter Justin Markey
Southern Manatee Fire Rescue is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Firefighter Justin Markey, who died of natural causes while off duty on January 1, 2026. Firefighter Markey proudly served with Southern Manatee Fire Rescue for over 17 years and was a dedicated, respected member of the department. Throughout...
Window company owner faces court on fraud charges
SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - The owner of a local window company is heading to court today on charges he ripped off his customers. Prosecutors said Todd Hoch took hundreds of thousands of dollars from customers without ever delivering any windows or doors. He’s facing dozens of charges tied to construction fraud in both...
Family-owned garden center opens third store in region
MRT Lawn and Garden Center has opened a new store in North Venice. The shop marks the third in the region for the company, which also has locations in Port Charlotte and South Venice. Located at 385 U.S. 41 Bypass N., the new MRT Lawn and Garden Center is open...

















