After near-death attack, Sarasota stylist helps other domestic violence survivors
The buzz of blow dryers and hum of small talk fill Rhonda Calahan’s Sarasota salon most days — until her phone rings. She doesn’t hesitate. She sets down her scissors, wipes her hands and answers, her tone soft but urgent. On the other end might be a...
Pets of the Week: Englewood Animal Rescue Sanctuary (EARS)
This is Bella, a 4-year-old, spayed female. She is a standard, dark gray poodle with a short poodle haircut. Typical poodle, Bella loves kids, cats, dogs and everyone she meets. She is housebroken and likes to ride in the car. Introducing Frannie, a 4-month-old, spayed female kitten. She is a...
Boutique featuring Italian leather handbags opens on St. Armands
Christian Delunas, retail general manager of Italian Idea, said the family opened the first store in Sarasota in 2017. However, the family tradition of working in Italian leather goods goes back to the 1930s. "This is actually our third time opening here," he said. "We first opened in 2018 but...
Manatee County students may attend different schools next year, officials say
The School District of Manatee County is close to finalizing new attendance zones that will change some students’ schools beginning next academic year. The new maps for elementary and middle schools will go into effect for the 2026-2027 school year, but the high school map won’t change until the 2027-2028 school year...
St. Pete man dumped gun, threw clothing off Skyway Bridge after murder: SPPD
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (WFLA) — One person was arrested in connection with a shooting that left a man dead in St. Petersburg last week. Corey Battle, 47, was arrested for second-degree murder in the shooting death of Jerome Smith, 44, the St. Petersburg Police Department announced. On Thursday, October 30, around 8:47...
No power bills, Cat 5 ready: 5 things to know about this Bradenton eco-community
Hunters Point in Cortez, Florida, is pioneering the future of sustainable and resilient housing. Developed by Marshall Gobuty and Pearl Homes, this community is designed to withstand extreme weather while producing as much energy as it consumes. FULL STORY: ‘The future of homes.’ Why this Bradenton development is...
Tommy Bahama Restaurant, St Armands
SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - Dawn Hummel, Regional Manager, Tommy Bahama Restaurants, and Executive Chef Ramaine Ebanks joined us to make Chilean Sea Bass with Baby Bok Choy, King Trumpet, Sushi Rice, and Miso Butter. “Located just blocks from the beach and serving handcrafted cocktails and island-inspired fare, this...
Stop on SNAP: Local food pantry, banks already see surge in customers
VENICE — With federal food assistance almost coming to a stop this weekend and the program’s future uncertain, residents were planning to stretch their remaining items for the foreseeable future.
Friends seek justice for Jeffrey Young 38 years after he was murdered
SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - Jeffrey Young was born and raised in Crystal River and is being remembered every day by the brotherhood of Florida Highway Patrol, his family, and a childhood friend. “Jeffrey Young was a long-time good friend since we were children; his parents and family lived across the...
Former Sarasota firefighter faces sentencing for taking money from dead man
SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - A former Sarasota firefighter will be sentenced Monday afternoon for taking money from a dead man’s wallet while responding to an emergency call. Ryan Hagenbuck entered an open plea in court in early August, meaning he pleaded guilty without any prior agreement with prosecutors regarding a...
