Good morning, Sarasota.

A AAA study found nearly half of drivers believe traveling up to 10 mph over the posted limit is safer to keep pace with traffic (87% favor increased police presence in high-risk areas).

The release urged drivers to adjust their speed for current road and weather conditions.

Licensed practical nurse Joan Brown, who has served Plymouth Harbor for nearly 37 years, was awarded Caregiver of the Year by LeadingAge Southeast and is set to retire in 10 days.

Residents praise her calm care, and she and her husband plan future trips while staying nearby.

John Annis was named permanent president & CEO of the Barancik Foundation after serving as interim leader since March.

He will continue to build on the organization’s legacy by strengthening community partnerships and supporting local nonprofits.

Gulf Coast Community Foundation invested $49 million last fiscal year to support local programs from food assistance and education to workforce training in Sarasota, Charlotte and DeSoto counties.

Its donor partnerships and board-directed grants have delivered over $650 million in regional impact since 1995.

Allegiant Air announced new routes from St. Pete-Clearwater with flights to Savannah on Nov.

15 and from Sarasota-Bradenton to Portsmouth on Nov. 23, offering introductory fares starting at $39 and $69 & boosting travel options for Tampa Bay residents.

Selby Gardens has started its $60.9M expansion at its downtown campus to upgrade its facilities and exhibits, a move designed to enrich local cultural experiences.

Lakewood Ranch screenwriter Amber Nelson & co-writer Mokotsi Rukundo turned personal loss into 'Amberica', a self-deprecating comedic screenplay inspired by her mother's passing.

The table read in Los Angeles in June followed a Cannes win, and the team awaits streaming interest.

Major wastewater treatment investments have improved Sarasota Bay, with restored seagrass and clearer water boosting local tourism and real estate values.

Upgraded Bee Ridge facility now uses advanced membrane filtration to treat up to 18 million gallons per day, ensuring high-quality discharge into nearby water bodies.

Hurricane prep experts warn against waiting for a storm, ignoring flood risks, and not planning for power outages; residents are advised to check emergency kits, know evacuation zones, and keep fuel tanks half full as the season continues.

North Port Fire Rescue opened Fire Station 87 in Wellen Park on Aug.

18 to improve emergency response amid rapid local growth (the $10.2M project was a partnership between city officials and developers). The facility’s opening is part of ongoing efforts to boost community safety.

City commissioners voted unanimously to let Benderson transform the former county building at 1660 Ringling Blvd into taller Class A offices with ground-floor retail by moving one acre to Downtown Core rules, allowing future plans for up to ten stories.

The decision clears the way for detailed design and traffic reviews.

Planned facilities will add two freestanding ERs along State Road 64 in Lakewood Ranch to ease travel & speed up care.

Manatee County commissioners approved one site & will review the second next month, with construction expected to start this fall.

Tommy Bahama launched its new Marlin Bar at Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch.

The venue offers island-inspired cuisine, handcrafted cocktails and live music for a relaxed tropical escape.

Five local high school football players are set to shine this fall.

Lakewood Ranch's Elidrick Berry, aiming for 1,000 rushing yards, and The Out-of-Door Academy's Devin Erdei, known for his defensive plays, will lead their teams in games around the community.

Sarasota and Manatee high schools competed in volleyball + golf events during Aug.

17 to 22; Bradenton Christian beat Cardinal Mooney in volleyball, Sarasota won the John Ryan Memorial Golf tournament, and girls golf teams recorded competitive scores at University Park Country Club.