Fire risks remain high due to abnormal amounts of hurricane-related storm debris still on the ground in some areas of the Bay Area.

Dry conditions in Sarasota County lead officials to impose a burn ban. Outdoor burning is banned throughout the county, with some exceptions.

County officials say the burn ban will automatically lift once the drought index falls below 500 for seven consecutive days.

Venice Fire Rescue Chief Frank Giddens has issued a citywide recreational burn ban effective immediately due to dry weather conditions that significantly increase wildfire risk. Unless a permit has been issued by the Florida Forest Service,

Kelly Rozelle, a history teacher at Venice High School, was named the Sarasota County Teacher of the Year in a ceremony Thursday.