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WSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., May 16: Van Wezel's future; developer-run government; Operation Tidal Wave expands; fish farms in the CaribbeanThe panel that will make recommendations on what to do with the Van Wezel seems to have reached consensus: The performing arts center function has to move out of the historic building. But grassroots activists are pushing back.Next: Buyer beware! We have a follow-up to the Suncoast Searchlight report on developer-run mini governments.Then: Operation Tidal Wave, the dragnet that caught more than a 1,000 immigrants in Florida is expanding. WSLR News’ Ramon Lopez reports.Finally: A young researcher and fish farmer from Manatee Co...2025-05-1731 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., May 14: Skyscraper project falls to opposition; the rising cost of challenging developers; filling a Venice city council seat; Frost & Murphy town hallGrassroots organizers celebrated a rare victory against a high-profile development project in Sarasota Tuesday. Johannes Werner reports.Next: A Suncoast Searchlight investigation describes the high cost of challenging development in the courts. Derek Gilliam brings us that story.Then: An empty seat on the Venice city council was filled Tuesday. WSLR News’ Ramon Lopez reports.Next: A Democratic senator from Connecticut and the nation’s youngest U.S. representative came to Sarasota. More than 1,000 flocked to their town hall, and WSLR News reporter Tamara Solu...2025-05-1530 minWSLR NewsWSLR News wed., May 7, 2025: City covers ex-commissioner's legal fees; New College shuts down childcare; Maxwell Frost Q&A; Lakewood Ranch Southeast; mixed messages on transitCity of Sarasota commissioners voted to pay the attorney fees of a former colleague, after he defended himself against a conflict of interest complaint.Next: Employers in this area are scrambling to help employees with childcare. New College of Florida seems to be going in the opposite direction.Then: On Saturday, the youngest Congressman ever will be returning to Sarasota, where he worked for a year. WSLR interviewed Max Frost before his visit.Then: Lakewood Ranch Southeast is a done deal now. But the...2025-05-0730 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Apr. 25: Manasota Beach Road; Canadian snowbird diplomat; microforests; museum troubleAnd then, it was back to normal. On Wednesday, developer Pat Neal told the Sarasota County Commission why a road should be built in the south county that happens to benefit mostly residents of one of his developments. The commissioners obliged, unanimously.Next: The United States and Canada are in a tiff like not seen since the 18th century. WSLR’s Peace & Justice Report interviewed a Canadian diplomat who also happens to be a snowbird with a condo on Longboat Key.Then: A veterans’ group on the Suncoast is plan...2025-04-2631 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., Apr. 16, 2025: Venice City Council resignation's ripples; Fauci in Sarasota; tumbling real estate prices; local economic ripples of Trump measures; Canadian snowbirdsA Venice City Council member made ripples last week when she resigned in protest against peers seemingly favoring developer Pat Neal. WSLR’s Ramon Lopez interviewed Joan Farrell and Ron Smith, who was elected by landslide after he said Neal had asked him to drop out. Next: The culture wars flared up again on Monday when Dr. Anthony Fauci spoke to more than 3,000 people in Sarasota.Then: Real estate prices in Southwest Florida are tumbling. We have a report from the Suncoast Searchlight.Next: Tru...2025-04-1731 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Apr. 9, 2025: New College takeover of USF-Sarasota; Russell Brand; Pat Neal in Venice; Hands-Off protests; Sarasota Schools end mental health program; cattle driveA recent news report revealed that New College President Richard Corcoran produced an outline for the takeover of the neighboring USF Sarasota-Manatee campus. USF administrators are now telling their faculty that nothing is imminent, but WSLR News reporter Alex Lieberman talked to one USF professor who continues to worry.Next: New College is welcoming yet another controversial figure to its “Socratic Stage” series, triggering a protest and apparent distancing by the Sarasota Film Festival.Then: Developer Pat Neal hopes he will be getting his way at a Venice Council meet...2025-04-0930 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri Apr. 4: Downtown design critics; Manatee County comp plan re-write; Sarasota Film FestivalThe race for height is on when it comes to construction in downtown Sarasota, and some architects and urban planners don’t like it. Gretchen Cochran listened to the critics.Then: Manatee County Commissioners are re-writing the master plan for new development. This week they discussed transportation, particularly alternatives to the automobile. But in the same meeting, one of the region’s biggest developers pleaded for more roads he says are needed for more cars. WSLR News intern Sera Deniz watched and listened.Next: The Sarasota Film Festival is laun...2025-04-0531 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., Mar. 26: Sarasota stormwater shuffle; destroying a microforest; farmworker organizing; Red Tide and brain healthAfter massive flooding last year, Sarasota County is asking the City of Sarasota to take over stormwater management. That would end an agreement that began in the last century.Then: You’d think a forest that brings back turtles and birds would be a welcome addition to the neighborhood. It’s not for one homeowners’ association in suburban Manatee County that actually ripped out a microforest.Next: The Coalition of Immokalee Workers created a successful model that’s not only good for immigrant tomato pickers, but also for farmers and groc...2025-03-2631 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Mar. 21: Border czar in Sarasota; anti-Homan protest; RIP Synia CarrolThree powerful deportation proponents shared the stage at New College Thursday. Farah Vallecillo tells you about some of the points they tried to get across.Then: Outside the same New College venue, hundreds of protesters told their side of the immigration story, and we talked to a New College student who was both in- and outside.Finally: A beloved jazz musician and former teacher passed away, and we’ll play a tribute put together by Ramon Lopez.2025-03-2131 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Mar. 19: Performing Arts Center vote postponed; downtown Sarasota's race for height; Tom Homan at New College; Tesla Takedown protest; Red Tide researchSarasota city commissioners decided to postpone a $400 million vote, and Gretchen Cochran has the details.Then: Downtown Sarasota is seeing a race for height and density for new skyscraper projects. Ramon Lopez explains.Next: Homeland Security Secretary Tom Homan openly defied a judge’s order to stop the deportation of nearly 300 Venezuelans. He will be in Sarasota tomorrow to talk about immigration, sharing the stage with two other hardliners. New College students are wondering about their role in this "Socratic Stage" event, if any.Th...2025-03-1931 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Mar. 14: New Sarasota Dem chair; Phillippi Creek dredging; New College land grab; Working Families Lobbying CorpsThe Sarasota Democrats elected a new leader this week, but few people have heard his name. WSLR News reporter Gretchen Cochran sat down with David Dean the morning after the election. Then: Sarasota County will dredge. Ramon Lopez reports about a county commission workshop discussing responses to the catastrophic flooding of the last storm season.Next: What’s the endgame for the new New College? A Suncoast Searchlight report puts the spotlight on the campus administrators’ ambitious real estate expansion plans.Then: The legislative session is on...2025-03-1430 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Mar. 12: Phillippi Creek; storm recovery spat; FEMA hangups; Tesla Takedown; chemicals in drinking waterHundreds of homeowners along Phillippi Creek were flooded during Hurricane Debby last August. That has raised questions about deficits in stormwater management and how it could be improved. The Suncoast Searchlight brings us this report. Then: A coalition of non-profit, business and government organizations says they have outperformed the Sarasota County government in recovery efforts after Hurricane Ian. Now they are asking the county to give them the lead in the recovery spending from last year’s storms, as Ramon Lopez reports. Next: FEMA has already paid out a billion doll...2025-03-1231 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Mar. 7: Adagio; Sarasota downtown master plan; undocumented immigrantsA developer is proposing a massive condo project in downtown Sarasota. The 'Adagio' will be taller and denser than local zoning allows, and a new Florida law entitles them, the developer says. Then: Sarasota’s downtown master plan is getting an update after 25 years. A first meeting at city hall kicked off the process.Finally: A Bradenton banker and former chamber of commerce chief has become a major organizer for undocumented immigrants in this region. What gives? WSLR News talked to him.2025-03-0730 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., Mar. 5: 50501 protest in Sarasota; developer tax loophole; Project 180; flood victim, half a year later; OB/GYN crisisHundreds of protesters in opposition to Trump’s executive measures gathered in downtown Sarasota again yesterday. Then: Ever heard about rent-a-cow? Developers have used this tax loophole for years, depriving counties of much-needed funding. The Suncoast Searchlight brings us that story. Next: A non-profit in Sarasota is helping thousands of prisoners return to society, and you may be able to see their work soon on the big screen.Then: Just after Debby, we talked to one flood victim. We revisited her more than half a year later...2025-03-0530 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Feb. 28: Trucker strike; George Kruse q&a; sewage spills; economic stormThat check in the mail could take a bit longer. Truckers in Tampa and Miami hauling much of the Postal Service’s mail are on strike. Then: George Kruse is a political survivor. The chair of the Manatee County Commission sat through a frank interview on WSLR’s The Detail, and we bring you excerpts. Next: The Suncoast Searchlight is bowing, and we are delighted to bring you a double feature today. First, Josh Salman tells us about sewage spills during last year’s epic storm season.Then...2025-02-2830 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., Feb. 26: Sarasota commisisoners slow down big project; resistance to The Ringling takeover; historic designation for the Purple Cow; Economic BlackoutYesterday, Sarasota County commissioners surprised their critics and campaign donors again. In a narrow vote, they postponed a decision on a key part of a major development, prompting the developer to huddle with neighbors who are trying to stop the project. Ramon Lopez reports. Then: The governor is setting in motion a takeover of yet another iconic institution in Sarasota. But the resistance is taking shape. Next: Next month, City of Sarasota commissioners are expected to take key decisions regarding the future of the Purple Cow. One of them is whether to...2025-02-2731 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Feb. 21: Ukrainian immigrants in North Port react to Trump; Manatee County stormwater systems; SBA chugs on in SarasotaSome 5,000 Ukrainian immigrants live in South Sarasota County. And they’re not happy campers when it comes to the Trump administration’s and Rep. Greg Steube’s pressure campaign on Ukraine. Then: The Manatee County commission is trying to come to terms with the epic flooding during the last storm season, and what it may take to prevent an encore. Next: Amid Elon Musk’s cost-cutting and firing, the Small Business Administration is chugging on here in Sarasota, trying to help with disaster recovery.2025-02-2231 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., Feb. 19: Federal workers; DOGE protests; LGBTQ star speaks at New CollegeThe firing of federal employees is happening not only in Washington. It’s making ripples here on the Suncoast, as Gretchen Cochran found. Speaking of DOGE: There is also pushback, in the shape of protests, against what many decry as executive overreach. There were 17 protests on President’s Day in Florida, including one in Bradenton and two in Sarasota. We have reports on those.Finally: New College hosted an academic with rock star status in the LGBTQ community. Judith Butler called on the newly conservative college to reinstate its gender studi...2025-02-1930 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Feb. 14: Super tall, for the super rich; political mini-quake in Sarasota; suburban farmingThe project to build a super tall and super exclusive condo tower in downtown Sarasota for the super rich survived one challenge. But it has to clear one more hurdle. We have that story. Then: There was a small earthquake in Sarasota County politics this week. Ramon Lopez puts the spotlight on two “no” votes that make a dent in the seemingly unstoppable suburban sprawl machine. Speaking of sprawl: In the middle of a decades-old suburb in Sarasota, a three-acre showcase for urban agriculture and composting is thriving. Sera Deniz put on her...2025-02-1431 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., Feb. 12: DR Horton plans die in county commission; city megaproject gets costlier; Florida may defund public arts; immigrant protestYou could call it a political earthquake. Sarasota County Commissioners voted yesterday AND today against two major suburban development projects, both with 5-0 votes. Ramon Lopez has that report. Then: Tuesday was also a big day for the Sarasota Performing Arts Center project - the costliest undertaking yet in the history of the city. Gretchen Cochran is following it closely. Next: A St. Petersburg Republican filed a bill that could defund the public arts programs of Florida cities - including that of the City of Sarasota. Fin...2025-02-1331 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Feb. 7: Sarasota school administrators discuss ICE raids; civil rights photo exhibit; Great Florida Cattle DriveDonald Trump decreed that immigration enforcers can now enter churches, hospitals and schools. Sarasota School Board members and the superintendent discussed their response this week. Then: It’s Black History Month, and a photo exhibit at the Fogartyville celebrates the struggles of civil rights activists. Finally: Florida used to be the nation’s leading cattle state. Not anymore, as Florida’s head count of cows keeps shrinking. A new book puts the spotlight on the Great Florida Cattle Drive, and we have a report about that.2025-02-0730 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., Feb. 5, 2025: New College expansion; cell phone use in Sarasota schools; funding freeze affects Sarasota Bay Estuary Program; Lakewood Ranch plaintiff interview;New College is land-hungry. But the administrators’ efforts to expand the small campus have yielded mixed results. This week they seem to have scored one win and one loss. Then: Cell-phone use at school is a thorny subject. The Sarasota school district waded into the controversy by polling students and parents. Ramon Lopez reports about the survey’s results. Next: The federal spending freeze this week affected at least one local program. We tell you how.Finally: The developer of Lakewood Ranch scored a major victory last w...2025-02-0531 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Jan. 24: County burns volunteer firefighters; non-profit news outlet relaunches; coalition building; John LennonIt was not what many in the community - and two men on the dais - wanted: This week, the Sarasota County Commission voted for what looks pretty much like the beginning of the end for the last volunteer fire district in the county. Ramon Lopez reports. Then: The news desert keeps growing, but new wells are springing up. We report about the second version of a million-dollar news project on the Suncoast a non-profit is about to launch. Next: Progress dies in isolation. Preventing that is what an event about coalition building this we...2025-01-2431 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., Jan. 22: Lessons from flooding; Lakewood Ranch Southeast lawsuit; light pollution at Myakka; marches in SarasotaSarasota County was ground zero for flooding in Florida this storm season. Yesterday, the Sarasota County Commission held a workshop on stormwater management, and Ramon Lopez was there. Then: Yesterday, three appellate judges heard arguments in a lawsuit that tries to stop the Lakewood Ranch Southeast mega-development. We listened closely to the judges’ questions. Next: Light pollution is getting worse at Myakka River State Park. The Our Changing Environment show on WSLR put the spotlight on that problem.Finally: Between the second Trump inauguration, Jimmy Carter’s pass...2025-01-2331 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Jan. 17: Lessons learned from flooding; farmworker heat bill; coalition building; MLK Day eventsWere you under water during this epic storm season? This Tuesday, the Sarasota County Commissioners will discuss stormwater management lessons learned from the recent flooding. Then: The state legislature is providing heat protections unequally. Surreal News interviewed a Florida farmworker advocate about a heat bill that may be back in the upcoming session in Tallahassee, after it died repeatedly in committee.Next: Coalition building is needed to achieve positive change, but the culture wars have divided us. How can we overcome that? We interviewed an expert who will be in Sarasota ne...2025-01-1730 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., Jan. 15: The cost of keeping the Van Wezel; volunteer firefighter battle heats up; the state of immigration; women's marchHow much will it cost to keep the recently flooded Van Wezel Performing Arts Center? A fraction of what building a new one would cost. That's according to the latest engineering report, and Gretchen Cochran has the details. Then: The Sarasota County Fire Department wants to expand its coverage area. But its proposal to cut back the county's last volunteer fire department increasingly feels like it's too hot to handle. Ramon Lopez reports. Next: This Saturday - two days ahead of Donald Trump's second inauguration, women will march again. 2025-01-1530 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri. Jan. 10, 2025: $210m HUD disaster grant; bilingual school; transparent Manatee County Commission; immigrant forumSarasota County announced another $200 million-plus federal grant to help with storm recovery. The HUD funds will bail out many distressed homeowners here, and most of the money is supposed to help low- and moderate income households. Then: The first fully bilingual school in the region is expanding, and Dayana Melendez has the details. Next: The Manatee County Commission has a new chairman who wants to be transparent. He took his aspirations for a test-run in the first meeting under his gavel. Next: Immigration and immigrants have become a p...2025-01-1030 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., Jan 8, 2025: KVO sues, as new Manate County Commission chair sets priorities; Pat Neal gets his way in Venice; roundabouts in Sarasota; Sarasota's new logo; MLK Day;Manatee County politics never cease to entertain. The same day the new chair of the county commission let his priorities be known, news broke about a lawsuit. Then: Developer Pat Neal's plans for a controversial commercial development in Venice changed election outcomes in the still-quaint but fast-growing city. Yesterday, Neal's project got a step closer to groundbreaking. But he still expects pushback. Next: The City of Sarasota spent quite some time and money to have a new logo designed. On Monday, they picked their choice. It's probably not what you think....2025-01-0830 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Jan 3: Sarasota workforce housing; Lakewood Ranch Southeast; Midnight Pass; SEE Alliance; U.S. warfareA private workforce housing project near downtown that has been years in planning took another step towards groundbreaking. That's a rarity in posh Sarasota. Then: Ditto for a suburban mega-project. A big chunk of the Lakewood Ranch Southeast expansion is moving close to a vote by the Sarasota County Commission - with little scrutiny for potential flooding and traffic, and disregard for a pending lawsuit. Next: Sarasota County is ready to dredge, should nature try to close Midnight Pass again. But that may not be necessary, as WMNF reports. 2025-01-0330 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., Jan. 1, 2025: Water, water, water - effects of climate change on water; dolphins in Sarasota Bay; stormwater management challenges; watershed politicsHow does a warming climate change the balance of water? Noah Vinsky talked to the retiring director of the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, who has been quite vocal on this topic recently. Next: Humans aside, dolphins are the top predator in around Sarasota Bay. And when Flipper is doing OK, all is well. So how well IS Flipper? We asked an expert to find out. Then: The hurricanes this season have produced big challenges and shown deficiencies of local stormwater management systems. Ramon Lopez interviewed an engineer with a big-picture view.2025-01-0131 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Dec. 27: Colson Hotel; Gulf Coast Trails; anti-terror law; recyclingThe Colson Hotel - a landmark in what was once the heart of African American life in Sarasota - has been saved from the wrecking ball. Ramon Lopez has some specifics about the deal. Then: You may have biked on the Legacy Trail. But do you know about the big-picture trail plans for this region? Cathy Antunes, on her The Detail show on WSLR, interviewed the man who spearheads those plans, and we have a summary. Next: A new anti-terror law winding its way through U.S. Congress has non-profit news org...2024-12-2730 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Dec. 20, 2024: Tall tower builders try to overcome zoning; the value of higher education; young voters; Amazon picketersTwo developers presented their plans to build luxury condo towers in downtown Sarasota. Each of them wants to build taller than local zoning allows - with different arguments. Then: College degrees aren't worth the investment anymore - right? Wrong, says a new study. Dayana Melendez reports. Next: Young voters have been elusive at the polls, and the League of Women Voters want to change that. We'll tell you how. Finally: The Teamsters have taken on the world's biggest retailer. Days before Christmas, picketers have targeted Amazon distribution cent...2024-12-2030 minWSLR NewsWSLR News, Wed. Dec. 18, 2024: Protecting rural areas; volunteer fire department clings to life; Teamster pickets take on Amazon; Rays stadium dealDevelopers are gobbling up rural communities in Sarasota County. One grassroots group in Venice is trying a new approach to save rural lifestyles. Then: The Sarasota County Fire Department wants to take over the last remaining volunteer fire department in the area. They were in for a surprise, as Ramon Lopez witnessed. Next: The Teamsters have taken on the world's biggest retailer. Days before Christmas, union workers and community supporters will be picketing Amazon distribution centers, including five in the Tampa Bay area. Finally: The Tampa Bay Rays...2024-12-1830 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Dec. 13: Sarasota County Commission's new chair; Sarasota strategic planning; Obsidian round 2; risky pregnanciesThe Mike Moran era is over, and the Sarasota County Commission has a new chair. Who did the five commissioners pick? We have the details. Then: Once a year, the Sarasota County Commissioners sit down to pick their top long-term strategic priorities for the coming years. We put the spotlight on what they did NOT talk about. Next: When a luxury developer proposed the tallest tower yet for downtown Sarasota, it went down in a hail of criticism, both by planners and the public. Now it's back, and Florence Fahringer reports ab...2024-12-1431 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., Dec. 11: The 'new' Manatee County Commission; Forest Cove workforce housing; John Nichols; US-Mexico event; Conversations Across the AisleA former odd-man-out is now chairing the Manatee County Commission, after an election that brought big change. And at the first meeting of the newly constituted board, a sitting commissioner went to great lengths signaling that he got the message of the anti-developer groundswell of these elections. Then: Manatee County is moving along at good speed when it comes to workforce housing. A high-profile project in Bradenton took a big step towards becoming reality. Next: The big win for Trump wasn't as big as it seems. And it's another episode of th...2024-12-1131 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Dec. 6, 2024: HOA discrimination; public service union decline; big theater projectCan homeowners' associations discriminate based on income? One HOA at Lakewood Ranch does, and Dayana Melendez reports about it. Then: The Florida state government is squeezing public-sector unions, and cafeteria workers, groundskeepers and school bus drivers feel most of the pain. Noah Vinsky has that report. Next: Florida Studio Theatre has ambitious plans to expand its campus in downtown Sarasota, as Ramon Lopez learned. 2024-12-0630 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., Dec. 4: PGT layoffs; FPL storm rate hike; John Nichols; Sarasota abandons downtown streetThe week before Thanksgiving, amid what still looks like a boom for window and door makers, local manufacturer PGT Innovations laid off 225 workers in Tampa, and then another 150 in Venice. The layoffs came after PGT was taken over by Miter Brands, a Pennsylvania-based company. Johannes Werner talked to one Venice worker who says he and his wife lost their jobs the same day.The newly constituted Sarasota City Commission went through a test on Monday. That test came about when Commissioner Jen Ahearn-Koch made a motion to take back a vote the outgoing commission made a...2024-12-0436 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Nov 29, 2024: Cost shock for aging condos; deportation plans; New College president makes Foundation move; Crearte moves to new digsNew rules for condos 30 years and older will take effect in one month. It will make life for hundreds of people in Sarasota-Manatee much more expensive, if not impossible. Della Hale investigates. Then: President-elect Trump has promised mass deportations. How will this play out in Florida, home to one out of 10 undocumented immigrants? Surreal News host Lew Lorrini asked an immigrant advocate. Next: The president of New College removed two members from the board of the foundation that coughs up most of his compensation. Florence Fahringer reports. Fin...2024-11-2932 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., Nov 27: PGT layoffs; Thanksgiving hunger; Black Friday; flood victims; Rays stadium; Jefferson County upsetEven though business seems to be booming, one of the largest private employers in Sarasota County is laying off up to 150 workers. We have the details. Next: Thanksgiving is approaching, and - in the wake of an intense hurricane season - more people in the region are going hungry. Then: How did Black Friday sneak up on us as a Thanksgiving tradition? A WMNF reporter is looking for answers. Then: How are flooded homeowners reacting to disaster? Noah Vinsky talked to two of them, trying to understand the...2024-11-2731 minWSLR NewsWSLR News, Fri., Nov 22: Celery Fields development; costly wastewater in Sarasota; transit faresA Sarasota County board stacked with pro-development characters voted down a housing proposal. To everyone's surprise. A sign of change? Next: Sewage has been in a lot of people's noses and on many people's minds during the recent flooding. So when the Sarasota County utility director talks about wastewater, WSLR listens closely. Next: Transit rarely gets much attention by the Sarasota County Commission. Raising fares for an on-call service did on Wednesday. We have the details.2024-11-2230 minWSLR NewsWSLR News, Wed., Nov. 20: MCR Health bankruptcy; new Sarasota County Commission; affordable housing; immigrant testimonialsMCR Health has fallen on hard times and has filed for bankruptcy. How will this affect their 100,000 uninsured patients? Then: A new Sarasota County Commission was sworn in on Tuesday. We are looking for signs of change - and found them. Next: Affordable housing was on the Sarasota County Commission’s agenda. An annual report prompted a scolding. Finally: A local theater is telling the true stories of immigrants.2024-11-2031 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Nov. 15: Climate change and health; flooded homeowners and their plansClimate change and human health are closely linked - think along the lines of heat stroke, mosquito bites, and your and my sanity after this storm season. Florence Fahringer was at a conference in Sarasota, and we'll have her report. Then: So your home has been flooded. What's next? Noah Vinsky talked to one homeowner on a barrier island, and one near a river, to find out how they're holding up, and what their thoughts and plans are for the future.2024-11-1633 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., Nov 13: Forward Together; VanWezel damage; city hands over downtown street to developer; Southgate Mall rezoneLess than 100 hours after U.S. voters returned Donald Trump to the White House, and two citizen-initiated amendments in Florida failed, a bunch of teenagers and twenty-somethings assembled at a church in Sarasota to plot their next steps. We have a report about what's called Forward Together. Then: The flooded VanWezel Performing Arts Center. Handing over a downtown street to a developer. And is 10 percent affordable housing enough in a big new mixed-use project? WSLR reporter Della Hale followed up on three important City of Sarasota stories that got lost in the election noise last w...2024-11-1428 minWSLR NewsWSLR News, Fri. Nov 8: Walking while black; Manatee County election analysis; dike breach; state house races; hospital board and charter review board electionsAfter hurricane Milton, a black teenager who walked through his own neighborhood in suburban Sarasota in search of a phone signal was harassed by neighbors. Now, the Sarasota Sheriff's Department announced it dropped its investigation into assault charges. But they did more than that, and Jamee Kerber has a report about why that upsets community advocates. Then: We interview a close observer about the election results in Manatee County. He is not surprised about the Republican sweep, but within that sweep, there were several surprises. Next: A hydrologist points his finger at...2024-11-0930 minWSLR NewsWSLR News, Wed. Nov. 6: Post-election roundupFirst, we'll bring you a summary of the most important results statewide, with a take by one of the few winning Democrats in the state. Then: The balance of the Sarasota City commission may have changed yesterday. Florence Fahringer tells you why. Next: The closest partisan race in Sarasota brought us Mike Moran as the next Tax Collector. We are looking at Moran's recent clashes with tax collectors in Florida, and his role at the PACE funding agency. Finally: Gretchen Cochran has a peek under the hood of...2024-11-0631 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Nov. 1: Mobile home havoc; overdevelopment concern; Steube vs Lopez; Florida House District 74 raceMobile home park residents are usually among those hardest hit by hurricanes. But this storm season has been particularly hard, as Della Hale reports. Next: Sarasota County commissions an annual survey, and for the fifth year in a row, overdevelopment is the top concern of people living in Sarasota. We talk to a community activist. Then: For six years, Greg Steube has represented Sarasota County and portions of Charlotte and Lee in the U.S. House of Representatives. Manny Lopez is the underdog challenging the pro-gun, anti-immigration, and anti-abortion congressman. Florence Fa...2024-11-0131 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., Oct. 30: Post-hurricane reconstruction; NASA seeks hot spots in Sarasota; Big Mama's Collard Green FestivalFlooding and winds have caused more than $1 billion in damage in Sarasota-Manatee this year. How will we rebuild? WSLR reporter Mark Warriner is asking the hard questions, and we will air part one of his three-part report now. Next: NASA has been watching Sarasota from space. The idea: Identifying local hotspots in a heating climate. NASA has series of recommendations, and two representatives will present them at a sustainability workshop next week. Then: Big Mama's Collard Green Festival is indestructible. The hurricanes did postpone it, but still turned out to be on...2024-10-3030 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Oct. 25: Hydrologist finds breach that may have caused flooding; Sarasota subsidizes developer program; Sarasota warehouse workers join union; LGBTQ community hit hard by storms;What caused a quite new subdivision in suburban Sarasota to be under water after Tropical Storm Debby? An expert found a smoking gun, and he has a series of recommendations for Sarasota County on how to prevent similar damage during the next floods. Ramon Lopez has the details. Next: Two hundred and sixty five warehouse workers in Sarasota scored one of the biggest wins for private-sector unions in decades in this region. Then: The Sarasota County commission wants to steer millions of federal disaster relief dollars to a developer-led training program. Tha...2024-10-2530 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., Oct. 23, 2024: Climate change and City of Sarasota planning; red tide looming; diminished dunes; storms and the Nov. 5 elections; Sarasota Charter Review Board candidatesSarasota City Commissioners were going to get a presentation about water quality in the Bay after recent storms. But Dr. Dave Tomasko went beyond that and made the commissioners look at the big picture: Climate change. Then: Red Tide is looming again for Southwest Florida. Next: Dunes are a first line of defense for beach communities. But following back-to-back hurricanes, the dunes along the coastlines in Southwest Florida experienced significant damage. Then: The recent storms caused serious disruptions in the lives of Sarasota County residents. How will that...2024-10-2330 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Oct. 18: Will DeSantis say 'climate change'? Solar obstacles; 'walking while black' in suburban Sarasota; warehouse workers unionize; laid off restaurant workers; school reopeningOn Thursday, the governor stopped in Sarasota again, to talk about robust hurricane response and school reopening. We asked Ron DeSantis about climate change and the lack of flood insurance. Next: A video has gone viral about a black teenager being harassed by neighbors when he went searching for a phone signal in his gated Sarasota neighborhood after Hurricane Milton. Jamee Kerber has the details. Then: 250 warehouse workers at a big food distributor in Sarasota are voting this week to join a union. Amid the hurricane chaos, the company suspended, without pa...2024-10-1830 minWSLR NewsWSLR News, Wed. Oct. 16: Day 7 after Milton: Recovery roundup; insurance; debris removal; seniors facing disasterA week after the direct hit, WSLR News reporter Ramon Lopez brings you a roundup of the area's robust recovery after Milton. Next: At a protest in St. Petersburg, elected officials and community activists press Gov. Ron DeSantis to recognize climate change as a fact of life. Partner station WMNF reports. Then: Insurance is on everybody's mind. We have a look at FEMA application lines, and we talked to an adjuster while he was stuck in traffic to the islands as well as to an advocate for insurance reform. 2024-10-1731 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri, Oct 11: Hurricane Milton recovery; destruction on Casey Key; interview with a Siesta Key activist; interview with a fireman; updates on water service, roads and bridges, airports; a theater reopensComing up: A summary of Milton's impact. Then: WSLR reporter Ramon Lopez made it to Casey Key, after its second flooding. Then: We talk to community organizer Lourdes Ramirez whose home on Siesta Key was flooded twice. Next: Water service is essential, but it has been interrupted in several areas of the region during the storm. Then: WSLR reporter Ramon Lopez puts the focus on airports. Then: WSLR reporter Noah Vinsky has the latest on traffic, roads and bridges.2024-10-1231 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Oct. 4, 2024: Florida constitutional amendments; Plymouth Harbor expansion; book bans; hospital board raceNot just two, but six constitutional amendments will be on the ballot in Florida on Nov. 5. We'll give you a roundup of the four state-initiated amendments, plus we'll talk about the chances the two citizen-initiated amendments have of making it. Next: One of Sarasota's biggest and oldest retirement communities would like to build a major expansion. But they would like to do that near an area that was completely under water during the recent storm. Ramon Lopez has the details. Then: A national organization is ringing the alarm bells about exploding nu...2024-10-0430 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., Oct. 2, 2024: Sarasota performing arts center; Sarasota city manager succession; Sarasota Bay after Helene; Overtown SquareIf it happens, a new performing arts center would be the most expensive project in the history of the City of Sarasota. The project took another step closer to becoming reality this week, and our reporter Della Hale has the details. Next: In the City of Sarasota's weak-mayor system, the city manager plays a key role. The city is facing a difficult transition after Marlon Brown's surprising retirement announcement, and Ramon Lopez is updating us on this. Then: Helene, Debby, and before that, another thousand-year rain event - how is Sarasota Bay...2024-10-0330 min
WSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Sept 27, 2024: Hurricane Helene damage; storm surge; Bob Graham's planning legacy; Alpert vs. KashdenHurricane Helene sideswiped us at a good distance in the Gulf. But that's little consolation to thousands of barrier island residents here who suffered flooding from a historic storm surge. We have a first damage assessment. Next: WSLR News reporter Florence Fahringer puts the focus on the storm surge, talking to victims and experts. Then: An environmental group lauds the achievements of former Governor Bob Graham for planning in Florida. That nostalgic view of past achievements contrasts with recent and current trends in planning in the state, as WSLR reporter Noah Vi...2024-09-2831 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Sept. 20: NCF Student Newspaper goes independent, City Commissioner defends his record, School Board deals with staffing problems, Sarasota's Chimps in the spotlight, a first look at the Performing Arts Center designFirst, we’ll hear how New College student and alumni journalists are launching an independent newspaper; next, an incumbent city commissioner answers criticisms from his challenger; then, we’ll learn how Sarasota schools are dealing with staffing shortages; next, we’ll share why a new docuseries is bringing animal rights activists back to Sarasota; and finally, we’ll get a look at early designs for a new performing arts center.2024-09-2030 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Sept. 6: Sarasota County Commission diverts public school funds for private building industry institution, WCBTT performs to GOTV, District 73 State House Race, Sarasota City Master Plan meeting, Siesta Key's density holds steady The Sarasota County Commission has $15 million to allocate for job training in the wake of Hurricane Ian. Some commissioners were ready to give it all to the Suncoast Builders Association. The West Coast Black Theater Troupe took a creative approach to getting out the vote with a presentation of a one-woman show called “The Fannie Lou Hamer Story.” Democrat Derek Reich is once again challenging Republican Fiona McFarland for the District 73 seat in the Florida House. He thinks he has a better chance this time around. The Sarasota City Commission gathered for a special meeting to discuss the Downtown Master...2024-09-1630 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Sept. 6: Sarasota County Commission diverts public school funds for private building industry institution, WCBTT performs to GOTV, a look at th District 73 State House Race, The Sarasota County Commission has $15 million to allocate for job training in the wake of Hurricane Ian. Some commissioners were ready to give it all to the Suncoast Builders Association. The West Coast Black Theater Troupe took a creative approach to getting out the vote with a presentation of a one-woman show called “The Fannie Lou Hamer Story.” Democrat Derek Reich is once again challenging Republican Fiona McFarland for the District 73 seat in the Florida House. He thinks he has a better chance this time around.2024-09-1630 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Sept. 6: Legislative priorities at the School Board, Historic Colson Hotel update, City Commission District 1, Tax Collector Candidates at Tiger Bay, and Marcus-Powelll stops in SarasotaWe will hear about what the Sarasota County School Board picked as their legislative priorities for the coming year. Next up, we discuss the latest updates in the saga to save the historic Colson Hotel. We dig deeper into the Sarasota City Commission District 1 race, as two candidates move forward. Then, our team heads down to Tiger Bay debate to hear from the Sarasota County Tax Collector candidates. Finally, a report from the campaign stop of the Democratic Candidate in Florida for US Senate as she swung through Sarasota Wednesday afternoon.2024-09-0730 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Aug. 30 : County Approves Massive Development after Flooding, Calusa Lakes new development proposal, Tax Collector debate, Desantis pulls park plan, Uhurs 3 face trialThe Sarasota County Commission approves a massive new housing development just weeks after floodwaters subside in nearby neighborhoods; residents of Calusa Lakes respond to another new development proposal in their neck of the woods; candidates for tax collector to face off before the Tiger Bay Club; Governor DeSantis pulls the plug on a controversial proposal to build golf courses and hotels in state parks; and the Uhuru 3 face trial next week.2024-08-3130 min
Peace & Justice ReportAUGUST 28TH 2024: WATER QUALITY WITH DR. ABBEY TYRNA/LIBRARIES WITH RENEE DI PILATOToday we’ll talk to Dr. Abbey Tyrna, Executive Director of Suncoast Waterkeeper. We’ll talk about water quality, flooding and Hurricane Debby. After that we’ll talk to Renee Di Pilato, Director of Sarasota Libraries, about the little-known services available at the library.***Dr. Abbey Tyrna was unable to make the show. Instead Tom played an interview with Bacardi Jackson the current ACLU Executive Director and Howard Simon the former ACLU Executive Director conducted by the head of WSLR's News division Johannes Werner*** 2024-08-2856 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Aug. 23: Teenagers impact election; DNC Chicago; cultural center in NewtownSarasota is seen by many as a testing ground for the right-wing Project 2025. But these elections sent a strong signal of pushback, and that came - in a big part - from high school students. We have that story. Next: Kamala Harris picked up the baton from Joe Biden, and the Democratic National Convention has turned into an unexpectedly spirited event. WSLR reporter Mark Warriner is in Chicago, where he caught up with Sarasota delegates, as well as protesters in the streets. Then: The City of Sarasota Commission met this week, an...2024-08-2431 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., Aug 21: The primary election results editionYesterday we had a primary election, and our Manatee County analyst says the sweep by grassroots candidates was historic. We're dedicating this newscast to the elections, beginning with a roundup by Bradenton Times Editor Mitch Malley. Next, we'll interview one of the winners of the Sarasota school board elections. Then, Florence Fahringer reports about Sarasota County Commission elections. Then - is it the end of General Flynn's "Medical Freedom" movement? We'll have a roundup of the Sarasota Hospital Board elections. Finally: The incumbent was fa...2024-08-2233 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Aug 16: Sarasota's lacking stormwater system; big sewage spill; three city executives resign; another New College lawsuitThe historic flooding in Sarasota County put our plumbing to the test. The stormwater system, that is. The county's plumber-in-chief is Spencer Anderson. WSLR reporter Mark Warriner had a chance to interview the public works director. More plumbing: The City of Sarasota has been the poster boy of good behavior when it comes to wastewater treatment. But two weeks ago, that advanced treatment plant spilled close to 18 million gallons during Tropical Storm Debby. We have the story. Staying with the City of Sarasota: Three key figures in the city government just an...2024-08-1731 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., Aug 14, 2024: Flooded residents' worries; the flood and politics; City of Sarasota Commission District 1 debate; a high-profile school board raceThe historic flooding in Sarasota County last week put the spotlight on neighborhoods with homes knee-deep under water. Ramon Lopez pays close attention to one community where the water barely reached the doorsteps. Even though those experiences were less traumatic, the challenges arising even from them look daunting. Then: The questions and outrage prompted by the Sarasota flood coincide with the primary elections next week. We have a close look at the political ripples of the disaster. Next: More elections: Florence Fahringer reports from the last candidate forum before voters pick the...2024-08-1431 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., Aug. 9, 2024: Ringling College enrollment drop; stranded cars; Siesta Crossings mall redevelopment; Dr. Nik's bikes aren't scrap!Ringling College of Arts is an engine of the Culture Coast. But that engine has been sputtering lately, and that has to do with the Culture Wars emanating from Tallahassee. Florence Fahringer had a conversation with the president of that college. Then: When flooding happens, the first thought is about people and their homes. But cars are another big casualty, as Tyler Oldano reports. Next: The re-developer of a 63-year old mall in Sarasota convinced city commissioners that more than 10% attainable housing is not feasible in that project. That, in turn, rai...2024-08-1030 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., Aug 7, 2024: Flooded Sarasota; what went wrong with planning in Sarasota; The New College Six; Q&A with ACLU Florida's new executive directorThe aftermath of Hurricane Debby. Our Johannes Werner tells you the stories of residents experiencing rising waters just outside of Philippi Creek. Then: A former Sarasota Commissioner talks about the county’s development plan. Our report tells you what’s going wrong, and how it even plays into the damage caused by Hurricane Debby. Next: We give you an Update on the 6 New College Students who’re potentially facing punishment for their support of Palestine during graduation. WSLR’s Florence Fahringer spoke to one of the students about what the last few mon...2024-08-0730 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Aug. 2: Hospital board candidate's death; cost of the Sarasota Performing Arts Center; Democratic candidates for CongressThe public hospital board is hotly contested electoral terrain, as "Medical Freedom" activists are trying to gain control of Sarasota Memorial Hospital in these upcoming elections. In the middle of all this, one of four Democratic candidates passed away last week. Ramon Lopez looked at the ripple effects. Next: Plans for a new Performing Arts Center are creeping forward, and it could become the most expensive project in the history of the City of Sarasota. The city is on the hook for half of the cost, and that has some people worried, as Tyler Oldano re...2024-08-0231 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., July 31, 2024: Republican Party removes Republican activist from rally; Moran's entertainment spending; history teachers conference; dark moneyAt a rally this weekend at Robarts Arena, the Sarasota Republican Party chief expelled two Republicans - one candidate, and one activist. Ramon Lopez has that story. Next: Mike Moran has raised his profile as a defunder of childcare programs, an emergency helpline, public housing, and arts organizations, and by professing to be a good steward of taxpayer money. Now, an investigative report revealed that as the head of a state agency, he oversaw $36,000 in spending on entertainment, meals and travel in just 18 months. Then: Book bans and new state rules for...2024-08-0131 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., July 26: Dark money; lawsuit continues to hold up megaproject; Rose vs. Barker; Hillsborough school vs. county and stateDeveloper campaign contributions play a key role in local politics. But much of this money is now circulating outside the public view. WSLR reporter Mark Warriner was at a presentation about "Dark Money", and we have his report. Next: The developers of Lakewood Ranch could start earthmoving on 4,100 acres of land right now, taking out a big chunk of rural Sarasota. But they would do so at their own risk, because a couple of residents in the Old Miakka area just went into a legal appeal. We have the details. Then: In...2024-07-2730 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., July 24, 2024: Bradenton sells city hall; Sarasota County takes back public housing funding; Ziegler public records lawsuits put city in tight spotBradenton is about to sell city hall to a luxury developer. Literally. Tyler Oldano has more about that story. Then: It's a different picture in St. Petersburg, where the city council just approved a mega deal with the Tampa Bay Rays that will change an entire district near downtown. Sean Kinane with partner station WMNF interviewed one of three councilmembers who voted "no" on that deal, and we will play excerpts. Next: Three public housing construction projects in Sarasota are up in the air after the county took back part of th...2024-07-2531 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., July 19, 2024: Group seeks to stop change to Venice elections; candidate forums; the end of the Sarasota County business taxActivists and former officials formed a non-partisan group to fight a change in the way elections are run in the City of Venice. That's not the only grassroots response to controversial policies coming out of Venice, as Ramon Lopez reports. Next: Two candidate forums - one for City of Sarasota candidates, one for Sarasota school board candidates - played out in front of overflow crowds in the last 48 hours. We have the details. Then: Sarasota County commissioners ended a tax that many of those paying it actually wanted to keep. Tyler Ol...2024-07-2031 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., July 17, 2024: City finds solution for Players Theater; What the Medical Freedom candidates want; Manatee Supervisor of Elections race; what's at stake in the Aug. 20 elections; Franklin v. Battie drags onThe Players Theater wanted to build in the middle of a public park. Neighbors were dead set against it, and now the City of Sarasota came up with a solution. Then: What would the Medical Freedom candidates do if they had their say at Sarasota Memorial Hospital? WSLR reporter Mark Warriner tried to get answers. Next: One candidate brings up God frequently, the other talks about his experience. We're having a close look at the race for Manatee County Supervisor of Elections. Then: The so-called primary elections on...2024-07-1830 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., July 12, 2024: New College loses top administrator; Venice residents won't appeal Neal suit; Cathy Jordan memorial; activist summer camp; immigrant crashNew College just lost one of its last top administrators with deep experience of running a campus. Florence Fahringer brings us this story. Next: It just became too costly: Neighbors of a Pat Neal project in Venice decided not to appeal a judge's ruling, as Ramon Lopez learned. Then: Cathy Jordan was the mother of marijuana legalization in Florida. She passed away on July 4, and she will get a big send-off in Sarasota. Next: WSLR's Tyler Oldano was at an unusual summer camp - one that helps teen...2024-07-1331 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., July 10, 2024: Picking cultural winners and losers; Piney Point settlement; Venice compromiseOn Wednesday, the Sarasota County Commissioners disregarded funding recommendations by outside experts, and instead picked winners and losers among cultural organizations, by singling out three organizations - including WSLR-Fogartyville - for defunding. Then: When the watchdog is asleep, wake it up. That's what five environmental organizations did after the Piney Point disaster in 2021. Now they reached a settlement with the State of Florida. Next: Days after her husband's disastrous performance during the presidential debate, the First Lady was on the campaign trail in Tampa, to talk to military families. Tyler Oldano rep...2024-07-1131 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., July 5: Lessons from Invest 90L; Historic Newtown wins another award; Sarasota Charter Review Board racesA weather system called Invest 90L brought a 1,000-year rain event to Sarasota two weeks ago. WSLR reporter Florence Fahringer talks to experts about lessons learned. Then: A new study by Sarasota researchers links the intensity and duration of Red Tide to human activity. We talk to the lead researcher behind the study, about consequences this may have. Next: Sarasota's historically African American neighborhood was recently added to the National Register of Historic Places. And now Newtown is getting more recognition. Ramon Lopez reports. Then: The Sarasota Cou...2024-07-0530 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., July 3, 2024: Red Tide and human activity; tree memorial; Franklin vs. Battie; Supreme Court ruling on presidential immunityA lot of people insist Red Tide is a naturally occurring phenomenon that has been around for thousands of years. Period. And the link between human activity and the increasing length and intensity of Red Tide has not been exactly at the forefront of interest by the State of Florida. But now, a scientist in Sarasota and four colleagues are making a dent in the armor of silence around Red Tide and human activity. Our news team has more on that. Then: There was a memorial service in a Sarasota neighborhood this Sunday for the v...2024-07-0431 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., June 28, 2024: Vacation rental bill; tree memorial; green incubator; Democratic conventionAfter letting pass more than 80 bills that pre-empt local decision-making, Gov. Ron DeSantis - to the surprise of many - just vetoed one bill that troubled local communities. We have the details. Then: A month ago, New College cut some 40 trees - including historic slash pines - in a preserve. Now neighbors are hosting a memorial service this weekend. Everyone is invited, and Tyler Oldano has the story. Next: Low-income housing and environmental causes rarely converge. But they do in a new incubator in Sarasota. I was at a ribbon-cutting this mo...2024-06-2932 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., June 26: Bridge Pride March; Sarasota County immigrant hearing; Manatee County elections roundup, Part 2Due to the governor's fiat, the Ringling Causeway bridge will NOT be lit in rainbow colors during Pride Month this year. Instead, hundreds of Sarasotans will carry the world's longest rainbow flag across it this Saturday. Then: Even though it has little to no jurisdiction over immigration, the Sarasota County Commission held a hearing about the QUOTE "impacts of illegal immigration". The workshop last Friday produced little new information, but drew loud protest. Next: Monday marked the second anniversary of the landmark decision by the U.S. Supreme Court that overturned Roe...2024-06-2631 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., June 21, 2024: The end of Honeyside Farm; Sarasota tax collector's race; Manatee County election summary, part 1Agriculture in Sarasota County is disappearing, and that even includes the latest generation of organic farmers. Tyler Oldano has a report on how one relatively young farm in Sarasota announced its demise. Then: Manatee County voters seem restless, giving incumbents a hard time. Will that translate into any surprises? We talked to a long-time observer of local politics, to give us a race-by-race rundown of what will be on the ballot in the upcoming elections in August and November. Next: The county tax collector is supposed to run government business smoothly an...2024-06-2231 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., June 19, 2024: ALICE 2024 report; Sarasota affordable housing projects; Jon Thaxton talks affordable housing; Juneteenth eventsThe latest ALICE report just came out, and it shows that the number of people living paycheck-to-paycheck keeps growing. Our news team is pointing at the elephant in the room: Low wages. Then: Two affordable-housing projects are going through the approval process in the City of Sarasota, as Ramon Lopez reports. But so is another luxury condo tower that will increase demand for low-pay workers and therefore affordable housing. Next: Jon Thaxton is a former county commissioner. He is also a forceful advocate for affordable housing. On today's Peace & Justice Report on...2024-06-2031 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., June 14, 2024: Sarasota childcare funding cuts; Medicare Advantage trap; New College tenure fight; ruling against Venice grassroots groupAffordable and quality childcare is increasingly hard to come by. Businesses complain the lack of it makes for higher staff turnover. Even so, Sarasota County commissioners voted 4-1 to cut funding for one of the biggest childcare providers in the area. WSLR reporter Tyler Oldano is looking at the fallout. Then: Thousands of low-income seniors may end up on the streets, if HUD housing management companies continue a new practice to calculate income. WSLR reporter Victoria Kasdan talked to one HUD tenant who fell into the Medicare trap. Next: On Thursday, th...2024-06-1531 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., June 12: Meteorologist's take on extreme weather; ghost candidate; Venice election referendum; hotel hiring and staffing shortagesFirst it was extreme drought, now it's a 200-year rain event. Florence Fahringer talks with a meteorologist and climate activist to make sense of the weather we're facing. Then: An unknown young woman filed as a candidate for the District 1 seat of the Sarasota County Commission. And her filing could mean nearly half the voters in the district anxious about overdevelopment have no voice, and could end up with a developer-sponsored commissioner. Next: The City of Venice Council finalized it yesterday: In a controversial referendum, Venice voters will decide whether they wa...2024-06-1330 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., June 7, 2024: grassroots disaster response; Neal project prompts official's rant; HOA law in force; how to become a poll workerHurricane season is upon us, and most people are looking to the county and its emergency chief for guidance. But did you know there's grassroots disaster-response organizing going on? Ramon Lopez took part in a drill in his own neighborhood. Then: Developer Pat Neal's 3H Ranch is one the biggest proposed developments in Sarasota County's rural east. He wants to squeeze 6,500 homes into a what's called a "village" concept, and that forces him to ask the county for a rezone and multiple variances. This, in turn, prompted a rant by one elected official. ...2024-06-0731 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., June 5, 2024: Sarasota ends business tax; anti-woke summit at New College; tree protest; bilingual education'End corporate welfare' has become a battle cry of the political right in Florida. Sarasota County Commissioner Mike Moran, who has taken his crusade against subsidies to childcare and transit, is now mirroring that by going against the chamber of commerce crowd. Tyler Oldano reports. Then: A dozen like-minded academics took to the campus of New College last weekend to discuss how to end what they decry as intolerance in universities. At the end of a full day of deliberations, they got support from a cowboy boots-clad governor, as Mark Warriner reports. ...2024-06-0631 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., May 31: New College punishes commencement protesters; ozone alert; new candidate joins District 1 city commission raceTwo weeks ago, New College graduates walked. But the commencement ceremony before that was full of security, glitches and unprogrammed action, including chants and heckles. Now, the college administration wants to discipline five students they accuse of disrupting the speaker. WSLR reporter Florence Fahringer talked to one of them. Next: Sarasota County issued an ozone smog alert yesterday, as did Tampa, and today St. Petersburg. If the dry and hot weather continues, we may see more alerts. That comes after two decades of decline in ozone pollution in this area. We talk to an expert. 2024-06-0131 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., May 29, 2024: New College resumes tree cutting, city yields; Manatee healthcare overhaul; Hugh Culverhouse's campaign contributions; ignoring protest, Venice moves towards referendum; candidate filing deadlineThis morning, New College began to cut big slash pines in the Uplands Preserve, to make space for a soccer field and volleyball courts. This, despite a big orange "stop order" sign put there by the City of Sarasota on Saturday. But in the afternoon, college and city were in synch again. Then: Getting medical care is beyond the financial capacities of one in five people living in Manatee County. That has put a burden on emergency rooms and public funding for them. County health officials want to change that, and Tyler Oldano has the d...2024-05-3030 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., May 24, 2024: New College tree cuts; Johnny Hunter Sr. RIP; hospital CEO interviewOn Thursday, New College began cutting trees at the Uplands Bayfront Preserve, to make space for a soccer field and volleyball courts. Anxious neighbors scrambled, and on late Friday managed to have the City of Sarasota intervene. We have the details. Then: Johnny Hunter Sr. provided an information lifeline and a mirror to African Americans in this area. He passed away two weeks ago, and we will tell you what's going to happen to Tempo News. Next: Remember the study that showed how Sarasota Memorial Hospital outperformed their peers during the pa...2024-05-2530 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., May 22, 2024: Hurricane season; New College commencement protest; Sarasota transit fundingHurricane season is upon us, and weather experts predict that La Niña will turn it into an intense one. We get you pointers from Sarasota County's new emergency chief. Then: Yes, the billionaire commencement speaker at New College's graduation event was challenged by a hostile crowd. But the bigger challenge was a faulty sound system, as our news team reports. Next: One Sarasota County commissioner hates big buses, and at a meeting this week, he went on the record with his deeply held conviction again. All five seemed to agree tha...2024-05-2330 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., May 17, 2024: Farmworker bus crash; affordable housing clash over Southgate Mall; Sarasota transit funding; New College Alt GraduationA bus crash this week near Ocala killed eight farmworkers and injured 45. WSLR's Ruth Beltran interviewed a farmworker leader from Immokalee and a lawyer from Sarasota who are close to this tragedy. Next: The biggest commercial developer in the region is proposing to turn one of the biggest mall properties in Sarasota into a complex that mixes retail and housing. That should be low-hanging, juicy fruit to build affordable apartments. But apparently neither the developer nor the city planning commission is willing to pick it. Ramon Lopez has the details. Then: On...2024-05-1830 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Wed., May 15, 2024: Construction at Celery Fields; New College student leadership; hospital troublesA national homebuilder wants to build a subdivision right next to a bird sanctuary and birdwatcher destination. We watched a neighborhood workshop in which the question was raised why Sarasota County is doing nothing to protect the Celery Fields. Then: New College student Grace Keenan is graduating, and that means she is on her way out after two challenging years as a student leader on the culture-war battlefield her campus has become. We talked to the new leaders of the New College Student Alliance about the challenges ahead. Next: Keeping with cu...2024-05-1530 minWSLR NewsWSLR News Fri., May 10, 2024: Sarasota County Commission candidates; mosquito season; Israeli hostage; and moreTwo of the five districts of the Sarasota County Commission are up for election this year. District 3, in the south, has the so far most complete constellation of candidates, and Florence Fahringer did some digging about them. Then: The rains are about to begin, and that means mosquito season. That raises concerns not only about malaria and dengue, but also about massive pesticide spraying. Our news team talked to the Sarasota County mosquito control chief. Then: A Sarasota woman’s stepson is one of the Israelis taken hostage during Hamas’s October...2024-05-1131 min
WSLR NewsThe Detail with Cathy Antunes breaks down what’s at stake with new development on Lido PavilionOn Jan. 12th, Antunes spoke with Mike Atkinson and Sylvia Babineau on development on the Lido Beach Pavilion. They reflect on the importance of the public access beach and what a new tiki bar could do to its presence.
The Detail with Cathy Antunes airs Saturdays at 11 AM only on WSLR 96.5!2019-01-2200 minWSLR NewsWSLR tackles local activism and people power on The Detail with Cathy AntunesThe Detail with Cathy Antunes is free to listen to at any time!
On Jan. 19th, Antunes spoke with local activist and founder of Newtown Nation, Lou Murray. The two reflect on local activism and the significance of people power in the work that they do.
Want more of The Detail? The Detail with Cathy Antunes airs every Saturday at 11 AM on WSLR 96.5!2019-01-2200 minWSLR NewsYour November Ballot from The Detail with Cathy AntunesThe General Election will take place on Nov. 6, 2018. Until then, WSLR is bringing you comprehensive election coverage from our public affairs programming. Cathy Antunes has spoken with several community members on the upcoming ballot, from charter amendments to local initiatives, on her show The Detail. Have you ever walked into a voting booth and felt as if you didn't know as much as you should? Well have a listen!2018-10-1900 minWSLR NewsMeet School Board Candidate Pamela GavetteGavette has been a member of the Pine View School Pine View Association (PTO equivalent) for 10 years, a parent liaison, a homeroom parent and participant on Pine View’s Shared Decision-Making Team. She also has served on the Pine View School Advisory Council for 10 years. She sat down last week in the WSLR Studios to talk with Cathy Antunes on The Detail.2018-08-0800 minWSLR NewsMeet School Board Candidate Nick GuyOn July 26th, The Detail welcomed School Board Candidate Nick Guy to the WSLR studios. Guy is challenging incumbent Bridget Ziegler for the District 1 School Board Seat. The School Board race is nonpartisan and all voters are eligible to vote. As there are only two candidates running, this race will be determined in August. Election Day is August 28th.2018-08-0100 minWSLR NewsMeet School Board Candidate Jane GoodwinOn July 19th, The Detail welcomed School Board Candidate Jane Goodwin to the WSLR studios. Jane currently serves on the Sarasota School Board and is seeking re-election this year. She has three challengers. The primary election will be held on August 28th. If any candidate receives more that 50% of the vote in August they will win the seat on the School Board. If no candidate receives more than 50% of the vote, the top two vote-getters will appear on your ballot in November.2018-08-0100 minWSLR NewsCritical Times – Week of July 27, 2018In this week's Critical Times, WSLR intern Giulia Heyward takes a look at the upcoming County Commission race in Sarasota County. In this episode you will hear from Lourdes Ramirez, Mike Cosentino, Wesley Beggs, Alexandra Coe and Christian Ziegler.2018-07-3100 min
Swine Flu Sarasota:A WSLR editorial in opposition to mandatory vaccinationsOn behalf of WSLR, the radio station's board members have submitted this audio editorial voicing opposition to the prospect of any mandatory H1N1 vaccinations taking place in Sarasota County and beyond.2009-10-1502 min