Governor: 200,000 antibody tests coming to Florida's testing sites

The University Town Center testing site is one of the five new sites DeSantis announced last week would be popping up to be run by the National Guard in counties where more testing needed to be done. During his visit Tuesday morning to the site, DeSantis said a mobile testing lab will be coming, saying it will also provide antibody testing.

Whale shark swims right next to boat off Siesta Key

Boaters out on the water this week were greeted with an incredible surprise: a large whale shark that swam right next to their boat.

Englewood physician accused of sexually battering female patients

A 70-year-old doctor was arrested by Sarasota County deputies after learning he inappropriately touched female patients, investigators said.

Hospitals test surgical patients for COVID-19 as elective procedures resume

Elective surgeries across the state of Florida have resumed, but many hospitals are now screening patients for COVID-19 before they head into the operation room. Doctors hope the extra precaution will help prevent the virus from spreading to medical staff and other patients. 

Sarasota County eases beach restrictions; parking lots open Monday

Beaches in Sarasota County were already open for a week for exercise only, but, starting Monday, beachgoers can hit the sand for all purposes, including sunbathing.

New COVID-19 drive-up testing site opens in Sarasota

The state's 11th drive-up COVID-19 testing location opened up at the University Town Center Mall on Sunday, May 3, 2020. Anyone who wants to get tested, regardless if they're showing symptoms or not, is welcome -- even if they do not have insurance.

North Port police searching for missing woman

The North Port Police Department is searching for Theresa Williams, 58, who was last seen by her neighbors a day or two ago in her apartment complex (Willow Creek Apartments in North Port).

Deputies arrest man suspected of North Port murder

Alachua County deputies arrested Robert Parolisi Friday night just north of Gainesville after a woman was found dead from a gunshot wound at his North Port residence earlier in the evening.

State College of Florida graduates via virtual ceremony

From the State College of Florida board room, Dr. Carol Probstfeld addressed more than 600 who logged on to watch the virtual graduation of the class of 2020.

Venice cancels Fourth of July fireworks because of COVID-19 financial, operational concerns

Fireworks won’t be lighting the night sky in Venice, Florida this Fourth of July due to COVID-19-related financial and operational concerns, says Venice city manager Ed Lavallee. 

Salon, gym owners wonder what's next after Florida's plan to reopen left them out

While some Florida businesses are preparing to reopen Monday as part of phase one of Governor Ron DeSantis’ Reopen Florida Task Force’s plan, others have been left in the dark.

Bradenton medical assistant arrested for drug trafficking

Sarasota police arrested Kelly Gaffney, 49, on 241 felony charges and 26 misdemeanor charges after they say she wrote fraudulent prescriptions in her name and her son’s name for two years.

Beach parking will reopen in Sarasota County; Chairs, coolers and canopies also allowed starting Monday

It was sooner than expected, but residents in Sarasota County will have their parking back if they want to head to the beach. In addition, commissioners decided to allow people to use the beach for all uses -- not just for exercise -- as long as beachgoers follow social distancing guidelines.

Venice museum needs help identifying owner of 1932 diary

A museum in the city of Venice came across a diary that appears to be nearly 90 years old. They hope someone can help track down the original author or her relatives.

Sarasota County health department hosts second series of drive-thru testing

Residents in Sarasota County will have another chance to get tested for the novel coronavirus as health officials open drive-thru testing sites for the second week in a row.