After losing job to pandemic, art helps Bradenton woman find an outlet

Like millions of other Americans, Lisa DiFranza lost her job when the pandemic hit in March 2020. Through art, she found a way to cope.

Residents of Lido Key, St. Armands are fed up with 'party rental' properties

About a year and a half ago, residents said a developer bought homes, tore them down, and replaced them with weekly vacation rental properties, which sleep up to 25 guests each. Residents say the rentals bring trash, too many cars, and loud parties.

Sarasota sheriff's office mourns the loss of K-9 Bryx

K9 Bryx was laid to rest Saturday after a nearly 9-year battle with Leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease found in parts of the tropics and southern Europe that is transmitted by sand flies.

Carla Wallenda, member of famed hire-wire act, dies at age 85

Carla Wallenda, a member of "The Flying Wallendas" high-wire act and the last surviving child of the famed troupe's founder, has died at the age of 85.

Monthly fundraiser to benefit new domestic violence shelter in Sarasota

The non-profit organization Queens of Domestic Violence Awareness hosted its first-ever First Friday fundraiser at the newly-named Queens Field on Orange Avenue and Martin Luther King, Jr. Way in Sarasota.

Florida man accused of speeding at 100 mph cited 'business' at the Ritz-Carlton, report says

A Florida man who allegedly was caught racing up to 100 mph through a crash site told police during his arrest that he had "business" to take care of at a Ritz-Carlton hotel, a report says. 

Sarasota theater prepares to welcome back audiences 1 year after going dark

After closing one year ago due to the pandemic, Florida Studio Theater will open its doors at the end of the month with COVID-19 safety protocols in place.

Family remembers decorated Sarasota veteran, 'one of the greatest men alive'

Sergeant Randy McConnell earned seven Purple Hearts, two Silver Stars, a Bronze Star for Valor, and an Army Commendation Medal for Valor in Vietnam. But that's not his whole legacy.

Carlie Brucia's killer to get new sentencing hearing

More than 17 years after 11-year-old Carlie Brucia was abducted and murdered in Sarasota County, the attorney general’s office acknowledged this week that convicted killer Joseph Smith should receive a new sentencing hearing.

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.  

'Prepare your mind, body and soul for battle': Florida man held without bond for Capitol riot offenses

Federal prosecutors say Graydon Young of Englewood was among the group of rioters that stormed the U.S. Capitol on January 6. Now he's in federal court in Tampa facing the consequences.