This Week in Local Government On Monday, the Sarasota County Public Works director will host a press conference to give an update on stormwater efforts. The same day, the Purple Ribbon Committee will make its final recommendation for the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Read Article »
North Port college grad detained and mistreated, family says After wrong U-turn, Lulu Martinez ends up in a Texas detention center, facing deportation. Read Article »
Immigrant rights protests coming to Tampa, Bradenton Organizer: ‘I want immigration reform. I want people who deserve to be here, to stay here.’ Read Article »
Manatee School Board begins search for fired superintendent’s replacement They aim to make their pick before the end of August. One board member expressed concern about lack of transparency. Read Article »
Youth theater dares Sarasota to accept love ‘The Prom’ is the latest not-just-entertaining production of Rise Above. Read Article »
“No Kings” protests headed to Southwest Florida this Saturday Shocked by the military parade in DC, veterans group will walk in Sarasota. Read Article »
Peace & Justice this Wednesday: Songs of Protest with David Rovics This Wednesday, June 11 at 9am, Tom will spend the hour with folk singer and activist David Rovics. We’ll hear some of his newest songs and discuss his work and the power of music in social movements. Read Article »
This Week in Local Government On Tuesday, the Manatee County School Board will hear from constituents after their firing of the superintendent, and they will discuss how to search for a new one. Read Article »
Suncoast Searchlight: Whistleblowers say New College Foundation may have misused donations Did scholarship money end up paying campus president’s compensation? Read Article »
Sarasota County commissioners propose new stormwater department Residents are “thrilled” at the commissioners’ vote, though some wish they’d taken action sooner. Read Article »
Manatee County raises impact fees Ignoring developer threats, county commissioners bump up infrastructure fees to recommended level. Read Article »
Suncoast Searchlight: This DeSoto farm has avoided avian flu How? Sunlight keeps his chicken safe, says Grove Ladder Farm’s owner. Read Article »
What to know heading into hurricane season 2025 Official advice: update emergency plans and contacts, check insurance and pack disaster kits. Read Article »