WSLR News: Stories

Episode 626: District 5 Sarasota School Board race: Beth Mayberry

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 16 May 2026 06:10:27 +0000

The Sarasota County School Board has spent much of the last year at the center of a national controversy on parental rights, book bans and the role of politics in the classroom. District 5 includes the county’s biggest city, North Port. Ed James III sat down with D5 candidate and former teacher Mayberry to discuss her transition from the classroom to the campaign trail.

Episode 625: District 2 Sarasota County Commission seat: Mark Smith

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 16 May 2026 05:46:54 +0000

District 2 covers all of the city of Sarasota, and it is the most Democrat-leaning of the five Sarasota County Commission districts. In 2022 Republican Mark Smith edged out a Democratic contender by ~300 votes. Now, Smith is the incumbent, and he is facing a Republican challenger in the August 18 primaries. Noah Bookstein reports.

Episode 624: District 17 U.S. House race: Greg Steube

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 16 May 2026 05:09:35 +0000

Greg Steube was first elected in 2018 to represent District 17 in the U.S. House of Representatives, and he sailed through re-election twice. Last week’s redistricting actually moved him out of the district he represents. Even so, he said he is not dropping out. Brice Claypoole brings you the details.

Episode 623: Sarasota local Zander Moricz defends youth activism in Oxford Union debate

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 16 May 2026 02:30:59 +0000

Youth activism is primarily performative—or so, says the prompt for a debate on Thursday hosted by the Oxford Union. Zander Moricz, co-founder of SEE Alliance embodies the “no way” to this prompt. Jackson Rothman has the story.

Episode 622: Suncoast Searchlight: Water restrictions are getting tighter, but enforcement is uneven

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 16 May 2026 00:29:04 +0000

The drought is getting worse, and water-use restrictions are getting stricter. But enforcement is uneven, as Emily Andersen with Suncoast Searchlight found out. To read the full story, go to suncoastsearchlight.org/drought-drains-southwest-florida-water-reserves-supply-secure.

Episode 621: Local activists launch Suncoast Jewish Alliance

WSLR 96.5 FM — Wed, 13 May 2026 23:53:02 +0000

A group of Jewish community activists launched an organization on the Suncoast that they say is more free to take on local issues. Noah Bookstein tried to find out how they are not just another Jewish Federation.

Episode 620: Manatee County investigates vandalism at Old Memphis cemetery

WSLR 96.5 FM — Wed, 13 May 2026 23:42:13 +0000

The Old Memphis graveyard in Palmetto, a historically Black cemetery, has been vandalized. Noah Bookstein tells you what happened.

Episode 619: Florida House votes to transfer USF's Sarasota-Manatee campus to New College

WSLR 96.5 FM — Wed, 13 May 2026 23:26:54 +0000

Despite a shift in voting by local legislators yesterday, the future of the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus still hangs in the balance. Nic Steinig explains.

Episode 618: The District 17 U.S. House race: Allen Spence

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 09 May 2026 23:23:39 +0000

Congressional District 17 covers most of Sarasota County, all of Charlotte County, and parts of Lee County. The area has been represented by Greg Steube in the U.S. House since 2019, and he easily sailed through re-election three times. This time, he is again being challenged by two Democrats - Matt Montavon and Allen Spence. They will first face off in a Democratic primary August 18. Here is our profile of Allen Spence.

Episode 617: The Bay: Next phase of park expansion begins next week

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 09 May 2026 22:46:42 +0000

If you’re wondering about that growing dirt pile near the Van Wezel, we have some answers. It’s not - yet - about building a new performing arts center. Gretchen Cochran reports.

Episode 616: Hurricane hunters stop at SRQ to raise awareness of hurricane season

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 09 May 2026 05:55:14 +0000

NOAA’s hurricane hunters made a stop at Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport. Ramon Lopez reports.

Episode 615: District 17 race for U.S. House: Matt Montavon

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 09 May 2026 05:32:56 +0000

Two Democratic challengers are trying to take the U.S. House seat held by Greg Steube in the Sarasota district. Johannes Werner offers a profile of Matt Montavon.

Episode 614: Booker High principal search narrows to two candidates

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 09 May 2026 04:14:00 +0000

Booker High School is an institution in Sarasota’s African American Community, and picking the next principal is a high profile issue. Ed James III was there for a candidate event.

Episode 613: Suncoast Searchlight: Sarasota County backtracks after schools sue over withheld tax money

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 09 May 2026 03:36:54 +0000

The Sarasota County Commission surprised everyone Tuesday when it took back a vote from last year, picking up the collection fee tab for school taxes. But the debate of what to do with the fees is not over. Derek Gilliam with Suncoast Searchlight reports. For the full story, go to suncoastsearchlight.org/sarasota-county-reverse-tax-collector-moran-schools.

Episode 612: Live Local opposition puts Sarasota County at odds with state legislators

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 07 May 2026 02:01:59 +0000

In another rather unexpected vote two weeks ago, the Sarasota County Commissioners tried to rein in a state law called the Live Local Act. The move set the county on a confrontation course with the state, and the commissioners are now trying to understand the legal implications. Noah Bookstein has the details.

Episode 611: Sarasota school takes first in state at 'Odyssey of the Mind' competition

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 07 May 2026 01:20:58 +0000

In Sarasota, Bay Haven School of Basics Plus recently took home first place in the state for a competition known as "Odyssey of the Mind," and now they’re preparing to represent Florida on the world stage. Reporter Ed James III sat down with the team and their coach to talk about the win and the financial hurdle they have to overcome to get to the finals.

Episode 610: Larry Thompson steps down after 27 years as Ringling College president

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 07 May 2026 01:20:01 +0000

27 years. That’s how long Larry Thompson has been in charge of Ringling College of Art & Design. He has three weeks left on the job, and Rhatia Murphy sat down with him for an exit interview.

Episode 609: Sarasota City Commission rejects Obsidian 3.0

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 07 May 2026 01:16:53 +0000

Three times was NOT the charm for the developer of what could be the tallest tower in downtown. The Sarasota City Commission rejected a modified proposal of the Obsidian again, as Ramon Lopez reports.

Episode 608: Sarasota County Commission reverses vote to charge schools for tax collections

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 07 May 2026 01:15:30 +0000

Led by Tom Knight, the Sarasota County Commission surprised everyone by taking back a vote it made last year to charge the school district for tax collections. The $2 million in fees withheld by the Sarasota Tax Collector had prompted the school district to sue Mike Moran and his office. Nic Steinig reports.

Episode 607: Suncoast Searchlight: Sarasota schools sue tax collector over funding dispute

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 02 May 2026 03:31:47 +0000

Next: The revenue-strapped Sarasota School District is suing the tax collector, and Derek Gilliam with Suncoast Searchlight tells us why. For the full report, head to suncoastsearchlight.org/sarasota-county-schools-sue-mike-moran-tax-collector.

Episode 606: Tallest luxury tower proposal is back... again

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 02 May 2026 01:46:59 +0000

It’s Round 3 for a controversial proposal to build downtown Sarasota’s tallest tower, on a quite small lot.

Episode 605: Suncoast Searchlight: Tatum Ridge apartment proposal underscores Live Local concerns

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 02 May 2026 01:07:15 +0000

A Florida law that promotes affordable housing has put the Sarasota County Commission on a collision course with the state and developers. Derek Gilliam with Suncoast Searchlight brings us a report written in collaboration with Michael Barfield of the Florida Trident about the apartment complex project that has prompted outrage and the commission’s strong reaction. For the full story, visit suncoastsearchlight.org/live-local-tatum-ridge-sarasota or floridatrident.org/sarasota-county-blocks-live-local-law-risking-clash-with-developers.

Episode 604: Gulf Coast Community Choir prepares for annual benefit concert

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 04:57:15 +0000

WSLR News reporter Ed James III sat down with the Gulf Coast Community Choir's leadership to talk about music, mission and the "Choir with a Heart."

Episode 603: Sarasota County launches program to connect locals with affordable lawyers

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 04:54:40 +0000

Sarasota County has launched a new affordable legal counseling program, connecting potential clients to lawyers in their field of need. Nic Steinig reports.

Episode 602: Sarasota churches spotlight youth mental health crisis

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 04:39:26 +0000

An event held by a coalition of churches in Sarasota put the spotlight on officials on the big gap for youth mental health services. Ramon Lopez was at the event.

Episode 601: New owner takes over controversial concrete crushing plant

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 03:42:33 +0000

A controversial industrial plant at the edge of downtown Sarasota is under new management, but could it just be more of the same? Noah Bookstein gives us an update. Michael Barfield with the Florida Trident contributed to this story.

Episode 600: Sarasota Dems apologize for 'offensive' viral post

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 03:33:17 +0000

Sarasota County Democrats are apologizing for a viral social media post following a gunman opening fire at the White House Correspondents' Dinner. Johannes Werner has the details.

Episode 599: DR Horton sues Sarasota County over Celery Fields denial

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 03:09:52 +0000

DR Horton is suing Sarasota County over their denial of a planned subdivision near the Celery Fields. Gretchen Cochran reports.

Episode 598: 'Bending the Arc' connects Suncoast students with civil rights history

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 05:22:01 +0000

A group of Sarasota and Manatee high school students is learning about history where it happened: in Selma, Alabama. Rhatia Murphy brings you this report.

Episode 597: Gulf Coast Community Foundation's regional survey centers community

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 03:48:04 +0000

Every three years, one of the biggest funders of non-profits in this region is going through a deep listening exercise. Johannes Werner will tell you what 1,500 people on the Suncoast said were their biggest concerns.

Episode 596: Suncoast Searchlight: Red tide turning point? New research offers hope

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 03:07:48 +0000

Research to mitigate red tide is blooming in Sarasota. Will it make a difference in the next outbreak? John Dunbar with Suncoast Searchlight tries to find answers. For the full report, head to suncoastsearchlight.org/red-tide-outbreak-shrink-lake-okeechobee-mote.

Episode 595: A close look at District 1 Sarasota School Board candidates

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 02:48:23 +0000

Our deep dive into the District 1 race for Sarasota School Board began with Jimmy Glover. Now, Brice Claypoole offers a close look at candidate Teresa DeWitt and a cursory glance at Heidi Brandt.

Episode 594: Six petitioners challenge New College's campus master plan

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 01:39:03 +0000

In August, New College will be facing hearings before a state administrative judge over its campus plans, tree cutting and more. Six neighbors have petitioned the state to look into what they believe are violations of plans and rules. Noah Bookstein reports.

Episode 593: Want to reduce your environmental footprint? Ditch bottled water

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 05:12:02 +0000

It’s a call to move away from bottled water. Reiña Phair delivers this call to action.

Episode 592: Food management non-profits merge to form Sunshine Community Harvest

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 04:52:17 +0000

It’s Earth Day, and Gretchen Cochran brings us the report about a merger between two non-profits that now cover the whole food cycle—from seed to compost.

Episode 591: Jimmy Glover, D1 school board candidate, vows to restore community trust

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 04:12:52 +0000

We are putting the focus on the race for the school board seat held by Bridget Ziegler. Ed James III kicks off our profiles of District 1 candidates with Jimmy Glover.

Episode 590: Sarasota School Board limits student protests during school hours

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 03:41:57 +0000

The Sarasota School Board yesterday passed a set of new policies, including one that punishes student protest during school hours. Ramon Lopez brings us the details.

Episode 589: Suncoast Searchlight: Sarasota's property appraiser moves millions to support Byron Donalds

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 03:03:04 +0000

The Sarasota Property Appraiser heads a PAC in support of gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds. What gives? Christian Casale with Suncoast Searchlight brings us this report. For the full story, head to suncoastsearchlight.org/furst-sarasota-property-appraiser-ai-byron-donalds.

Episode 588: Concrete crushing plant continues operating without an owner—or a permit

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 02:43:26 +0000

A controversial concrete crushing plant near downtown Sarasota apparently keeps operating—without permits. Noah Bookstein visited the plant to find out what’s going on.

Episode 587: Historic Downtown Village business owners are in the dark about their lease agreements

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 04:14:03 +0000

The Historic Downtown Village is on the chopping block. Yesterday, the developer who wants to replace it with a two-block apartment complex met with neighbors and existing business tenants who may have to look for another location. Noah Bookstein was there.

Episode 586: Suncoast Searchlight: Environmentalists warned cruise port fix would leave Terra Ceia vulnerable

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 03:28:33 +0000

State lawmakers drafted a measure to stop a cruise port in Manatee County. But new reporting shows that environmental watchdogs warned the bill could leave the door open to large-scale development in the Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve. Alice Herman with Suncoast Searchlight has the details. To read the full report, go to suncoastsearchlight.org/cruise-port-bill-tera-ceia-environmentalists.

Episode 585: 'Fighting for Florida' spotlights our waters at Sarasota Film Festival

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 03:17:39 +0000

There’s something about seeing a film that doesn’t just entertain you—it activates you. At this year’s Sarasota Film Festival, one documentary did exactly that: “Fighting for Florida.” Rhatia Murphy reports.

Episode 584: Booker High principal Dr. Rachel Shelley announces her retirement

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 03:12:13 +0000

After fifteen years leading the Tornadoes and thirty-seven years in the Sarasota County School District, Booker High School Principal Dr. Rachel Shelley announced her retirement. WSLR’s Ed James III takes a look at the legacy she leaves behind and the high stakes involved in finding her successor.

Episode 583: Amid financial challenges, Sarasota schools proceed with 'Future Focused' makeover

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 06:11:05 +0000

Declining enrollment, the expiration of pandemic-era funding and state voucher programs are taking a toll on Sarasota County schools' finances. But in the face of these challenges, the district is hoping to come out stronger. Brice Claypoole reports.

Episode 582: Community fish fry documentary premieres this Saturday at Sarasota Film Festival

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 06:10:17 +0000

Fish Fry & Fellowship, a locally made documentary focused on late Palmetto icon Coach Eddie Shannon, premieres this Saturday. Johannes Werner has the details.

Episode 581: Sarasota area conservatives react to No Kings

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 05:35:24 +0000

How did folks on the right side of the aisle feel about the nationwide No Kings Protests? Gretchen Cochran found out.

Episode 580: Tuesday marks a year of weekly protests outside Sarasota's Social Security office

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 05:11:29 +0000

Tuesday was the one-year anniversary of the "Hands off our Social Security" protest. What has been accomplished in the past 52 weeks? Where do organizers see the movement going? Ed James III has the answers.

Episode 579: Suncoast Searchlight: Sarasota County Schools to cut teachers as vouchers divert millions

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 04:49:03 +0000

180 teaching positions in Sarasota County schools are on the chopping block, due to a budget shortfall within the district. Alice Herman with Suncoast Searchlight brings us this story. For the full report, visit suncoastsearchlight.org/sarasota-county-schools-budget-teacher-cuts-vouchers.

Episode 578: Voters will decide whether Sarasota's land preservation program continues

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 04:32:45 +0000

A $250 million land preservation deal is ahead of Sarasota voters. Jackson Rothman tells us how the County Commission is going about it.

Episode 577: No Kings 3.0 mobilizes thousands along the Suncoast

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 06:46:22 +0000

No Kings Day mobilized thousands in Sarasota County. A trio of WSLR News reporters bring us their observations.

Episode 576: Senator Joe Gruters' parting gift: a bill that may raise costs for condo residents

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 06:13:47 +0000

Sarasota Senator Joe Gruters’ parting gift to his constituents is an insurance bill that could raise the cost of living in aging condos, apartments and retirement homes. It also sets up a major contributor to Republican campaigns to make a windfall. Nickolas Steinig reports.

Episode 575: Suncoast Searchlight: ICE to expand presence in Southwest Florida

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 04:55:31 +0000

ICE is looking for office space in Florida, including in Sarasota. Alice Herman with Suncoast Searchlight brings us this story. For the full report, visit suncoastsearchlight.org/ice-co-working-spaces-florida.

Episode 574: How many of the Sarasota Sheriff's Office's ICE referrals target 'worst of the worst'?

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 04:42:33 +0000

The Sarasota County Sheriff is one of the most active Florida law enforcement agencies when it comes to ICE referrals. Kurt Hoffman suggests all the potential deportees are “criminals.” But are they? Ramon Lopez pored over hundreds of Sarasota County ICE referrals.

Episode 573: Ron Kashden and Kelly Franklin are Control Growth Now's "Citizens of the Year"

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 05:44:34 +0000

Kelly Franklin and Ron Kashden’s community organizing has made an impact. This weekend, the Sarasota power couple was recognized for that.

Episode 572: Sarasota plans to implement 20 mph speed limits on residential streets

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 05:23:11 +0000

Traffic calming in neighborhoods is high on the City of Sarasota’s agenda. Rhatia Murphy reports.

Episode 571: City scrambles to stormproof the Van Wezel

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 04:53:56 +0000

So the City of Sarasota committed to safeguarding the historic Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. But that’s a quite complex undertaking, and it’s not happening overnight. Gretchen Cochran talked to a city engineer.

Episode 570: Sarasota School Board approves anti-student protest resolution

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 03:33:26 +0000

The Sarasota School Board approved a new student protest policy. Ramon Lopez reports.

Episode 569: No Kings protests will sweep the Suncoast this Saturday

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 03:06:10 +0000

Expect thousands of opponents of the Trump agenda to rally this Saturday along the Suncoast for another No Kings Day. Ed James III has a preview of local events.

Episode 568: Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd advocates to curtail mass deportations

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 01:29:32 +0000

Grady Judd has been an advocate of strict immigration enforcement. That’s why the Polk County Sheriff surprised many last week when he announced he would advocate with the Trump administration for a slowdown in mass deportations. Sarasota County Sheriff Kurt Hoffman does not think much of Judd’s initiative. Ramon Lopez has that story.

Episode 567: Suncoast Searchlight: How Mark Vengroff became a major force in Suncoast affordable housing

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 04:30:36 +0000

Mark Vengroff has become a household name on the Suncoast as a developer and manager of workforce housing. Suncoast Searchlight reporter Kelly Kirschner profiles Vengroff's rise. To read the full report, head to suncoastsearchlight.org/mark-vengroff-affordable-housing-suncoast.

Episode 566: Weeks after operator's dissolution, concrete crushing plant continues running

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 03:32:32 +0000

The State of Florida seems to have the power to shut down a controversial concrete crushing plant near downtown Sarasota. But will it? Jackson Rothman is looking for answers.

Episode 565: Developer prepares to replace Historic Downtown Village with residential superblock

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:28:36 +0000

Will the Historic Downtown Village on Fruitville Road soon be history? Ed James III brings us a report on a superblock development that could do away with yet another piece of Old Sarasota.

Episode 564: Documentary on the takeover of New College of Florida premieres at film festivals

WSLR 96.5 FM — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 12:37:21 +0000

Using a provocative title harkening back to Nazi Germany, a new documentary about the political takeover of New College of Florida that began three years ago just premiered at film festivals in Missouri and Austin, Texas. And it is soon coming to Florida and Sarasota. Based on hundreds of hours of footage filmed on and around the Sarasota campus, the film bows as other universities around the nation are facing similar challenges today. WSLR’s Brice Claypoole shares a glimpse of First They Came for My College along with exclusive interviews with its protagonists and producers.

Episode 563: 'First They Came For My College"

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 14 Mar 2026 00:56:30 +0000

Interview with Harry Hanbury and Patrick Bresnan, producer and director of a documentary on the political takeover of New College of Florida. The film just premiered at festivals in Missouri and Texas.

Episode 562: Sustainability coordinator prepares to put composting on Sarasota's radar

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 06:26:43 +0000

The City of Sarasota's sustainability and resilience coordinator wants city commissioners to consider expanding composting services. Gretchen Cochran takes you to the world of worms, food scraps and topsoil.

Episode 561: What sets Sarasota's farmers' markets apart?

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 05:56:43 +0000

Our reporter Rhatia Murphy will take you on a stroll through the area's farmers' markets.

Episode 560: Proposed Florida law would limit e-bikes' speed to 10 mph

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 04:10:07 +0000

If you live in the City of Sarasota, you have rented one of those e-scooters at least three times. Statistically, that is. Ed James III puts the spotlight on our fast-growing micromobility and the conflicts that come with it.

Episode 559: Suncoast Searchlight: Fight erupts over plan to hand Sarasota golf courses to developer

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 03:11:16 +0000

An agreement with a large commercial developer to run their golf courses is creating anxiety at one of Sarasota's oldest planned developments. Derek Gilliam with Suncoast Searchlight brings you this report. For the full story, head to suncoastsearchlight.org/the-meadows-benderson-golf-lawsuit.

Episode 558: Urban Meyer shares what he brings to the New College Board of Trustees

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 02:17:48 +0000

On the board of New College, a culture war crusader is out and a football coach is in. Johannes Werner takes a close look at what Urban Meyer has to say about education.

Episode 557: The affordable housing project to replace a concrete crusing plant is dead. But now Sarasota is suing US Recycling

WSLR 96.5 FM — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 19:18:02 +0000

The effort to replace a dust-emitting concrete crushing plant near downtown Sarasota with affordable housing is dead. But after more than four years of violations and complaints, the City of Sarasota is now getting ready to sue US Recycling, the operator of the crushing plant, as a “public nuisance” - just days after the company filed for corporate dissolution. That, in turn, leaves more questions. WSLR News reporter Jackson Rothman is trying to find answers.

Episode 556: Why the city commission picked Karie Friling

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 18:10:01 +0000

It took the five city commissioners last Friday just half an hour to pick Karie Friling unanimously as Sarasota's next city manager. She will become the first woman to serve in that position, arguably the most powerful at city hall.

Ramon Lopez provides more details about how and why Friling was selected.

Episode 555: 27th annual Through Women's Eyes film fest kicks off this Friday

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 05:41:00 +0000

'Through Women's Eyes' will kick off Friday. Johannes Werner puts the focus on that film festival.

Episode 554: City commission gives nod to latest Sarasota Performing Arts Center proposal

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 05:06:51 +0000

The Sarasota City Commission gave a nod to a scaled-down proposal for a new performing arts center, but it's happening under a cloud of bigger financial uncertainty. Gretchen Cochran has the details.

Episode 553: Sarasota schools' fiscal pressures mean tough choices lie ahead

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 02:22:32 +0000

Shrinking student enrollment means less money, and that translates to tough decisions ahead for the Sarasota School District. Ed James III reports.

Episode 552: SRQ has been disaster-free since 2000. But is the airport ready when planes crash?

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 15:50:16 +0000

In March 2000, two small planes collided on a runway at Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, killing four people in a fiery explosion. And in February 2023, two full-size jetliners nearly collided on a runway there. But there's never been a fatal commercial airline accident at Sarasota Bradenton International, commonly known as SRQ, the industry's airport code. And officials there hope to keep it that way, as Ramon Lopez reports.

Episode 551: Scratch Made gives Sarasota teens practical kitchen experience

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 04:18:51 +0000

Sarasota’s Booker schools are home to Scratch Made. That’s a program that steers students to professional kitchens and careers in gastronomy. Jackson Rothman gives us a taste.

Episode 550: Pine View allows student newspaper to publish flagged opinion pieces

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 03:40:34 +0000

The Torch troubles started with a bang and ended in a whimper this week. Our reporter Klaus Obermeit interviewed Pine View high school journalists who put together the Torch student newspaper to find out what they learned from their principal’s incrimination of two articles.

Episode 549: For Sarasota's proposed performing arts center, parking remains a puzzle

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 02:58:45 +0000

On Monday, City of Sarasota Commissioners will be presented with an updated and scaled down proposal for a new performing arts center. Parking should be a key part of that presentation, but it probably will not, as Gretchen Cochran reports.

Episode 548: Sarasota city manager search reaches last stretch

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 02:24:26 +0000

City of Sarasota Commissioners are busy this week picking their next city manager. WSLR’s Ramon Lopez listened closely to the candidate interviews and talked to some of them.

Episode 547: New College USF takeover bid hits the Florida House

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 02:11:05 +0000

As early as July 1, the Sarasota-Manatee campus of the University of South Florida could be gone. USF boosters are trying to prevent that, and a rally on the campus is underlining their intent. Ed James III has the details.

Episode 546: Sarasota's historic Leonard Reid House marks its 100th anniversary

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 03:44:22 +0000

In young Sarasota, the Leonard Reid House is among the oldest. The non-profit that runs the cultural center in that building in Newtown will be celebrating its centennial this weekend. Here with the story is Ed James III.

Episode 545: Suncoast Searchlight: Florida bill would let homeowners recall CDD boards

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 03:14:46 +0000

Owning a home in a developer-controlled neighborhood can come with hidden costs and other pitfalls. A pending bill in the Florida legislature seeks to rein in these private governments. Josh Salman with Suncoast Searchlight brings us that story. To read the full story, go to suncoastsearchlight.org/florida-bill-community-development-district-cdd-recall-board.

Episode 544: Sarasota County Commission weighs two high-profile land acquisitions

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 02:03:22 +0000

Sarasota County is in the process of buying two high-profile properties for what could be upwards of $40 million. Ramon Lopez has the details.

Episode 543: Community Fridge brings free healthy options to food-insecure Sarasotans

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 06:13:17 +0000

Sarasota, meet the "freedge." If you live in the neighborhoods in North Sarasota wedged between Tamiami Trail and US 301, you have to travel longer distances than fellow Sarasotans to find your groceries. One initiative in Newtown is trying to cover some of the gaps. Jackson Rothman reports.

Episode 542: Panelists will discuss immigration enforcement at Fogartyville this Saturday

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 05:47:28 +0000

Immigration enforcement is on everyone's mind. A WSLR panel this Saturday will feature two sheriffs and an immigrant advocate. Ramon Lopez brings you more details.

Episode 541: Suncoast Searchlight: A bold affordable housing plan sputtered. Now Sarasota is trying again

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 04:46:12 +0000

A controversial affordable housing project run by the City of Sarasota is back. Suncoast Searchlight brings you the details. To read the full story by Kelly Kirschner and Derek Gilliam, head to https://suncoastsearchlight.org/sarasota-affordable-housing-vengroff-proposal.

Episode 540: Front-runners emerge in Sarasota city manager search

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 04:16:55 +0000

Who will be the next Sarasota city manager? The commissioners boiled down the field of applicants to six, and a front runner has emerged: Harry Black. Ed James III has the story.

Episode 539: Federal wetland protection cuts may place Sarasota wetlands at risk

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 03:19:42 +0000

The Trump administration's EPA wants to gut wetland protections. Brice Claypoole explores what that could mean for Sarasota.

Episode 538: Peace & Justice Report | February 4, 2026 | Holly Elmore of Earth Impact

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sun, 08 Feb 2026 11:14:17 +0000

Hosted by Tom Walker
Guest: Holly Elmore

On this episode, Tom Walker speaks with Holly Elmore of Earth Impact, a nonprofit organization working at the intersection of soil health, water security, and regenerative systems.

Formerly known as Elemental Impact, Earth Impact has evolved from pioneering Zero Waste Zones to advancing what it calls “Regeneration in ACTION.” The conversation explores Earth Impact’s shift into its current Era of Impact, with a growing emphasis on education, water security, rewilding urban landscapes, and nature-based solutions that benefit communities, ecosystems, and local economies.

Elmore also discusses Earth Impact’s hands-on pilot projects, including native-plant landscapes and backyard permaculture, and why soil and water are inseparable foundations for a resilient future.

If you want a shorter version for on-air promos or a PSA-adjacent blurb, I can trim this down to 2–3 sentences

Episode 537: Lul Kassim - interview with a Somali immigrant who moved from Bradenton to Minneapolis

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 07 Feb 2026 01:46:38 +0000

Operation Metro Surge put Minneapolis in the national headlines, and the Somali immigrant community is at the center of that ICE storm. WSLR News interviewed a Somali immigrant who a couple years ago decided to move her family from Bradenton to Minneapolis. We asked her how ICE changed her daily life, and how she feels about her future in the United States and Minneapolis. Here is our full-length interview with Lul Kassim.

Episode 536: Somali immigrant from Bradenton and activist niece describe life in Minneapolis

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 06:41:14 +0000

Minneapolis is making national headlines for Operation Metro Surge, and Somali immigrants are at the center of that ICE storm. Lul Kassim decided to move from Bradenton to Minnesota, because she believed it was a better place to raise her children. Johannes Werner has her story.

Episode 535: Suncoast Searchlight: Floridians use immigration tip line to report neighbors, acquaintances

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 06:09:33 +0000

A Florida tip line that is supposed to provide leads about law enforcement not doing a good job on immigration has turned into a snitch line for neighbors. Alice Herman with Suncoast Searchlight explains. To read the full report, go to suncoastsearchlight.org/florida-fdle-immigration-tip-line-neighbors.

Episode 534: Joe Neunder faces Republican primary opposition for county commission seat

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 04:51:00 +0000

In the race for District 4, the recent past chair of the Sarasota County Commission, Joe Neunder, will be facing a Republican opponent in the primaries. Jim DeNiro is a cop. Ramon Lopez has the details.

Episode 533: Affordable housing for artists is coming to Sarasota

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 04:09:10 +0000

It’s a first for Sarasota, the city of arts: A sizable apartment complex offering long-term, affordable housing for artists. We have the details of the Artscape project. Johannes Werner reports.

Episode 532: Cuba's energy reserves dwindle as Trump imposes blockade

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 04:39:16 +0000

Trump is imposing an energy blockade on the island to our south. Massive blackouts in Cuba are becoming increasingly likely. Johannes Werner has the details.

Episode 531: Suncoast Searchlight: Manatee superintendent ushers change after misconduct investigation

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 04:10:17 +0000

An investigative report by Suncoast Searchlight and the Bradenton Herald showed a trend of rising abuses by teachers in the Manatee County school district. Josh Salman brings us a follow-up report about how the district pledges improvement. For the full report, visit suncoastsearchlight.org/manatee-superintendent-changes-misconduct-investigation.

Episode 530: Suncoast Searchlight: After Sarasota schools' ICE vote, questions remain about enforcement

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 03:12:10 +0000

Last week, the Sarasota School Board narrowly passed a resolution promising full cooperation with ICE. But what does this actually mean? Alice Herman with Suncoast Searchlight tries to find answers. To read the full report, head to suncoastsearchlight.org/ziegler-ice-resolution-questions-sarasota-schools-policy.

Episode 529: Sarasota County Commission blocks Winchester Ranch rezone

WSLR 96.5 FM — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 02:45:20 +0000

On Tuesday, the Sarasota County Commission slammed the brakes on a 9,000-home development that could have eviscerated the last big chunk of rural land in the area between North Port and Englewood. Johannes Werner elaborates.

Episode 528: 200 attend Five Points Park vigil honoring Alex Pretti

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 08:11:33 +0000

The killing by ICE agents of a nurse in Minneapolis is making waves in Sarasota, too, where a couple hundred people gathered yesterday. Jackson Rothman reports.

Episode 527: County commissioner Joe Neunder criticizes Florida's Live Local Act

WSLR 96.5 FM — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 06:51:12 +0000

Florida’s Live Local Act is meant to produce affordable housing. But one Sarasota County Commissioner has problems with that law. Ramon Lopez has that story.