Your Observer | Sarasota, Longboat Key, Lakewood Ranch

Cops Corner

April 1, 2026

Man falls for electronic payments scam of $6,000

While liquidating assets prior to a move, a man transfers three transactions to an alleged buyer before finally figuring out he was conned. This and other Sarasota Police Department reports in this week's Cops Corner.

March 31, 2026

Animal in car deemed not a criminal offense on breezy, 68-degree day

Police determined there was no animal abuse occurring as the car windows were cracked and the owner sat nearby. This and other Longboat Key police reports in this week's edition of Cops Corner.

Eat + Drink

These dishes have delighted Sarasota-area barrier islands for decades.

April 2, 2026

These one-of-a-kind dishes are signatures of the keys

The plates locals return for, visitors remember and kitchens have perfected for decades.

Harry's Continental Kitchens has been a local favorite for decades.

April 1, 2026

A staple of Longboat Key for over 40 years, Harry's Continental Kitchens keeps it fresh

This Longboat Key landmark blends Old World cuisine, family tradition and a commitment to hospitality.

Bravo's Pizzeria & Italian Eatery at 1995 Main St. in Sarasota has closed.

March 31, 2026

Pizzeria closes on Main Street in Sarasota

Bravo’s Pizza & Italian Eatery has shuttered next to the Hollywood 11 movie theater.

Indigo's Amber Hanratty, who was in the building industry for 25 years, now has her own business called Dirty Sara-Soda.

March 31, 2026

Dirty Sara-Soda hopes to clean up with a new beverage

The "dirty soda" mobile business is owned by Lakewood Ranch's Amber Hanratty, who saw an opening in the market.

Citywide speed limits set at 20 mph on local streets

As part of Sarasota's traffic calming plan development, local street speed limits are capped at 20 miles per hour, faster for collector and arterial roads.

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