While Hurricane Idalia made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend, storm surge and wind caused significant damage in the Sarasota-Bradenton region. Sarasota County officials estimated some $2.65 million in damages in the unincorporated areas alone.

County leaders have requested state assistance and extended a state of emergency through Sept. 11, next Monday.

In Manatee County, officials continue to assess the level of damage, but have seen extraordinary impacts in particular on the barrier islands in Holmes Beach, Longboat Key and Bradenton Beach. Residents well after the storm passed the region found streets flooded, with saltwater flowing from the Gulf of Mexico into the Intercoastal Waterway.

In total, infrastructure damages in the county likely top $2 million, a threshold for obtaining additional financial assistance from the state.

“We’ve been running rescue all night,” said Manatee County Public Safety Director Jodie Fiske. “We are doing what we need to keep people safe.”

U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Longboat Key, also joined a bipartisan letter to President Joe Biden calling for a major disaster declaration in Florida, including in Sarasota and Manatee counties.

“This major hurricane will continue to impact the state for some time, and the full extent of damage will not be known for days,” read the letter, led by U.S. Sens. Marco Rubio and Rick Scott and co-signed by eight U.S. representatives. “However, approving this declaration request will allow Floridians to be better prepared for the recovery phase. As such, we urge you to approve the State of Florida’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration.

Officials for the City of Sarasota say overall fared well. Some flooding occurred, but officials said new drainage systems at intersections like the Gulfstream Avenue roundabout on U.S. 41 performed well. The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall saw some water intrusion but there was no observable damage to the building roof or signage.

“It’s been a whirlwind week, but we made it,” wrote Mayor Kyle Battie in a letter to constituents. 

Photo courtesy City of Sarasota: Hurricane Idalia lands a boat in Bayfront Park.

The Financial Access Federal Credit Union (Financial Access), a Treasury-certified Community Development Financial Institution headquartered in Manatee County, was recently recognized in the “Best of the Best” in the Bradenton Herald’s 2023 People’s Choice awards. Every year, the Bradenton Herald invites readers to vote for their favorite service providers in a variety of businesses. “We’re honored to be recognized as one of the best credit unions in the region,” says Sherod Halliburton, CEO of Financial Access. “We deeply appreciate the votes of confidence that made this possible. I thank our dedicated team for their unwavering commitment to our mission and to the greater community for their trust in us.” According to Halliburton, Financial Access’ core focus has remained unchanged since it was established as a not-for-profit financial cooperative in 1958. “Our mission is to strengthen the local community by partnering with local businesses and providing access to affordable, high-quality financial products and services,” he says. “That’s why we’re here.” Halliburton adds that Financial Access’ mission remains the same in good times and bad. “Our members depend on us to keep their businesses going, hold onto their homes, and deal with medical bills. I’m very proud of our team’s unfaltering commitment to community empowerment through financial inclusion.” 

Sarasota-based Fergeson Skipper, P.A. takes pride in announcing that two of its attorneys – Richard R. Gans (Trusts and Estates) and Gerald I. Carp (Litigation, Trusts and Estates) – have been designated “Lawyer of the Year” in the 2024 edition of The Best Lawyers in America for the Sarasota Metro Area. In addition, Gans and Carp were named “Best Lawyers” by the publication, along with James O. Fergeson, Jr., (Business Organizations, Tax Law, Trusts and Estates), as well as fellow shareholders Matthew B. Mayper (Business Organizations, Elder Law, Tax Law, and Trusts and Estates) and Daniel L. Tullidge (Trusts and Estates). Tullidge was also included on The Best Lawyers in America’s “Ones to Watch” list for Business Organizations, Corporate Law, and Trusts and Estates, in company with shareholder Declan Mahoney for Construction and Real Estate Litigation. "We extend our congratulations to our colleagues for their outstanding accomplishments," said Fergeson Skipper Shareholder David S. Maglich. "These accolades aptly reflect their exceptional efforts in serving our clients." The Best Lawyers in America’s lists of outstanding lawyers are compiled by conducting peer-review surveys in which leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their peers. The publication’s methodology is designed to capture consensus opinion about the professional abilities of their colleagues within the same geographical area and legal practice area. 

Pictured: Fergeson Skipper attorneys have been recognized in the 2024 The Best Lawyers in America for the Sarasota Metro Area.

Unveiling the pinnacle of coastal living at this pristine beachfront residence at Bonaire Longboat Key. A newer gem completed in 2020, this turnkey masterpiece is a rare find. Wake up to the Gulf's gentle waves at your own beach retreat. Crafted with precision and built by Eason Home Builders, this home seamlessly blends modern innovation with the allure of West Indies-inspired architecture. Every corner of this residence is designed to capture the breathtaking beach views that stretch to the horizon. From the towering great room windows to the inviting balconies on each floor, the Gulf of Mexico's beauty is your constant companion. Step into an interior that's not just beautiful but also brilliantly functional. Designer furnishings, smart home conveniences, and striking light fixtures harmonize with oak wood flooring and sleek surfaces, creating an ambiance that's as modern as it is inviting. The heart of this home is a chef's dream. The gourmet kitchen is elegant and functional, boasting custom cabinetry, sprawling island, and top-of-the-line appliances. The CornuFe polished white and stainless-steel trimmed gas stove, accompanied by a statement-piece range hood, add to the allure of this culinary haven. The master suite is a sanctuary of indulgence. Set in a secluded northwest spot, it offers a private sitting area framed by bay windows, his and her walk-in closets, and a spa-inspired en-suite with a steam shower, soaking tub, and dual vanities. This residence embraces the outdoors as an integral part of its charm. Balconies on each floor offer panoramic views and create a seamless indoor-outdoor flow. Recent updates enhance the allure of this home. A/V upgrades, solar shades, water softener, reverse osmosis, water chiller, and water pressure booster are just the beginning. The indoor cabana opens to a resort-style pool deck, complete with covered dining, a summer kitchen, lounge areas, a fire pit, and a saltwater pool with a swim bar and raised spa. Beyond the pool, your own gated access leads you to the pristine shores of the Gulf. The meticulously landscaped yard features a hammock, and convenient outdoor shower. This home also includes an additional buildable parcel (the current owners have transformed this area into a botanical garden with beautiful lush landscaping). 

To learn more, visit

Sarasota County Sheriff Kurt A. Hoffman is pleased to announce that Corrections Sergeant Jennifer Shaddix-Barker graduated on August 25 from the Florida Leadership Academy, Class 54, hosted by the Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute (FCJEI). Sergeant Shaddix-Barker and 45 other first-line supervisors attended the four week-long sessions at the Ocala Police Department. The graduates learned skills necessary to support the needs of their local agencies and their communities as they prepare for future challenges.