News Briefs

+ Operation targets spring break activities
The Florida Sheriffs Task Force has launched its latest operation aimed at protecting the safety of Florida’s youth during spring break.

Operation Dry Spring will take place from March 4 through April 7, in conjunction with the spring break schedules of most public and private schools in Florida.

The Sheriff’s Office says students, the majority of whom are under 21, often choose to drink alcohol and experiment with illegal drugs during spring break.

In 2010, nearly 190,000 people under the age of 21 visited an emergency room for injuries or conditions connected to the use of alcohol.

The Florida Sheriffs Task Force and Operation Dry Spring will focus on the safety and protection of underage youth from drugs, alcohol and tobacco.

Anyone with information on illegal activity involving underage youth in Manatee County should call the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office at (941) 747-3011 or Crime Stoppers at 866-634-TIPS.

+ Clarification
A March 7 story titled “Experts raise prescription-drug awareness” stated a friend panicked and left Brandi Meshad when she “began breathing heavily in her sleep” following a drug overdose. However, the details leading up to her death are unknown.

Meetings & Agendas
• Manatee County Board of County Commissioners Planning Commission Meeting — 9 a.m. March 14, at 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.
• Manatee County Board of County Commissioners Work Session — 9 a.m. March 19, at 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.