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More homes being sold and more move to the Suncoast

SARASOTA COUNTY - It turns out April was the best month for home sales in the area since 2005. It correlates with new census numbers which indicate thousands moved to the Suncoast this past year. One of those areas which needs it and is seeing growth once again is North Port.

Steps taken for new Sheriff's headquarters

SARASOTA COUNTY - Commissioners have approved a plan which could result in a new multi-million dollar headquarters for the Sheriff's Office. They've even decided on where it could be built. It's something the Sheriff says his agency desperately needs.

Locals remember recovering from disaster

The pictures of the destruction hit home for those who have lived through similar ordeals. It's been nearly nine years since Hurricane Charley spawned tornadoes which ripped through the Suncoast causing more than $3 billion dollars in damage. Tuesday we talked to some who know all too well about having their home town turned upside down.

Venice High baseball: champs on and off the field

VENICE, Fla. - The Venice High School baseball team won its second straight state championship over the weekend, beating Haines City 14-4. It's the third title for coach Craig Faulkner's program. Monday we talked to the man in charge, who says the success starts off the field from players and the community.

Homebuilding numbers surge in South Sarasota County

NORTH PORT - Home building permits are on the rise is several states, with Florida ranking #2 in the country. Strong increases have been seen across the Suncoast, particularly in Venice and North Port. The increases are welcome in an area of the Suncoast hit especially hard by the housing bust.

Venice forced to scale back stormwater treatment plan

VENICE, Fla. - In the past few years, Venice has dealt with several beach advisories due to unwanted bacteria in the water. Now plans to fix the problem are being scaled back because estimates for the projects are skyrocketing.

North Port reducing liens due to code violations

NORTH PORT - For years the city of North Port got a reputation of fining its own residents for code violations - escalating to tens of thousands of dollars for some. This week commissioners taking the final steps to settle outstanding cases.

Gators on the prowl

SARASOTA COUNTY - A certain large reptile is getting a lot of attention across Florida. More alligators have been showing up in backyards and even on some doorsteps. It includes close encounters in other parts of the state and even right here on the Suncoast.

Donor providing free swim lessons to area students

VENICE, Fla. - The former head of a famous line of handbags is helping to make sure students in Sarasota County know how to swim, donating lessons to second graders throughout the area.

Scammers targeting seniors

SARASOTA COUNTY - Crooks recently tried to run the fake lottery scam on Venice resident Beth Adams. She's got the bogus check to prove it. It's not the first time. "My daughter said I must be on a list. I do receive quite a few."