COVID-19 one year later: Tears, long nights, and finally, optimism in Florida
It's been one year since the first case of COVID-19 unrelated to travel or known exposures was diagnosed in Florida. The first patient was a Manatee County man, diagnosed at Doctor's Hospital of Sarasota.
'Miracles happen': Couple plans wedding after surviving heart transplant, motorcycle crash
When they met, she needed a heart transplant to survive, but that couldn't stop their love. So Angela and Gary set off with their kids on a trip of bucket-list destinations. That's when Gary nearly died in a motorcycle accident. Now, she has a new heart and he is recovering from their injuries, so they decided to get married.
Nik Wallenda brings drive-in daredevil show back to Sarasota
When COVID-19 put performers on pause, daredevil Nik Wallenda created a drive-in thrill show that gave them a chance to show off the skills they spent years perfecting.
Teachers bring inspiring African American stories to life during Black History Month
Every day during the month of February, Teidra Everett dresses up as an essential figure in Black history, prompting her students to learn more about race, culture, and America's past.
Army recruiter accused of molesting teen girl; detectives seek other victims
Lloyd Duyan has been suspended from duty and is in jail without bond after Sarasota deputies say a 17-year-old student had the courage to speak up after being sexually battered off-campus last August.
COVID-19 ‘pod’ in Sarasota aims to close gap in vaccination disparities
Nearly 400 people received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at the World International Church on Sunday.
Exhibit honoring first Black Major League Baseball coach Buck O’Neil on display in Sarasota
Buck O'Neil, the grandson of slaves, grew up in Sarasota during the 1920s. He went on to be a Negro League star and the first Black coach in Major League Baseball.
Sarasota lets mask mandate expire, citing lack of enforcement capabilities
The city of Sarasota voted to let its mask ordinance expire next week, and it comes at a time when public health leaders are warning against easing up COVID-19 restrictions.
State representative to introduce Ethan’s Law in honor of 10-year-old killed in boat crash
If passed, ‘Ethan’s Law’ would require operators of boats under 26-feet to wear an engine safety cut-off device.
Humane Society of Sarasota expansion carries on life-saving mission
In 1952, the Humane Society of Sarasota County began with the vision to provide help for animals and be a no-kill shelter. That mission thrives today as they prepare for the completion of their full facility expansion campaign.
City of Sarasota names new police chief
Capt. James Rieser has been named the new police chief in the city of Sarasota.
Sarasota's police chief to resign, effective Friday
After serving eight years as the Sarasota Police Chief Bernadette DiPino abruptly submitted her resignation Wednesday. She is set to retire at the end of her shift this Friday.
Palmetto man accused of sexually abusing child for four years, police say
Detectives said the suspect sexually abused the victim when she was 8 years old until the age of 12.
Women accused of pretending to be officers, threatening to shoot victim
Sarasota police arrested two women accusing them of impersonating a law enforcement officer, using flashing lights, a siren, and a bull horn to pull someone over.
Vaccinated healthcare workers bringing luck, angels to Super Bowl LV
Super Bowl 55 will be historic on many levels but beyond the records set on the field, perhaps the biggest impact will be the images of 7,500 vaccinated healthcare workers cheering from the stands.
SPD: 2 women arrested for impersonating a law enforcement officer after live-streaming fake traffic stop
Sarasota police arrested two women on charges of impersonating a law enforcement officer and false imprisonment.
Medical staff from Sarasota Memorial Hospital headed to Super Bowl LV
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell recently crashed a Zoom meeting at Sarasota Memorial Hospital for a special reason.
Sarasota chief's offhand 'Taser' comment angers advocate for homeless
A homeless man yelled profanities about SPD during an outdoor Sarasota Opera performance, apparently prompting the chief to ask if anyone had a Taser.
Affordable development in Sarasota's Rosemary District targets housing for hometown heroes
Off North Lemon Avenue in Sarasota's Rosemary District, a piece of vacant land will soon be transformed.
Sarasota Memorial Hospital administers first round of vaccines to people over weekend
For the first time Saturday, Sarasota Memorial Hospital began vaccinations for people over 65. They plan to inoculate as many as 3,000 residents Saturday and Sunday.