East County

Elizabeth King
February 21, 2025

2 restaurants coming to Sarasota's UTC in 2026

Olivia and On Swann have Tampa locations and are expanding to the Sarasota market.

Arts + Entertainment
Eat + Drink

Eric Snider
February 21, 2025

Fire chief prepares to pass the torch of public safety

Lee Whitehurst's passion to become a firefighter was kindled as a teenager. Five decades later, with retirement looming, he remains devoted to the craft.

East County
Neighbors

Eric Snider
February 21, 2025

Taylor Emmons' legacy lives on through Out-of-Door Academy scholarship

Grieving parents turned their son’s tragic death into a sustainable charitable endeavor that has paid for more than a dozen teenagers to attend a private high school.

East County
Neighbors

Observer Staff
February 21, 2025

The best things to do in Lakewood Ranch this spring

From live music to classic cars, the Lakewood Ranch area has events for everyone.

Arts + Entertainment
Things To Do

Emily Leinfuss
February 20, 2025

To find the best fishing holes, you have to ask the locals

With its many lakes, Lakewood Ranch offers prime fishing spots that invite anglers to cast a line amid serene surroundings, whether they're seeking a quiet escape or the thrill of reeling in the catch of the day.

East County
Neighbors

Eric Snider
February 20, 2025

Has age softened NBA star Rick Barry? Ask his pickleball opponents.

This part-time Lakewood Ranch resident was one of the most prolific scorers and accurate free throw shooters in basketball’s history.

East County
Neighbors

Su Byron
February 20, 2025

The Creative Arts Association of Lakewood Ranch shows off its multitude of talent

Members of the Creative Arts Association of Lakewood Ranch unite to inspire each other and create community awareness.

East County
Neighbors

By Robert Plunket
February 20, 2025

A home in the Country Club proves that a classic look never goes out of style

This showplace in the Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club proves a house doesn't have to be new to be desirable. It just has to be unique.

East County
Neighbors

Mark Gordon
February 20, 2025

Pickleball players search for home courts closer to home

Passionate pickleball players — which is to say just about all of them — are dinking and dunking for new Lakewood Ranch courts to compete on. A solution might be in play.

East County
News

Marty Fugate
February 20, 2025

Family values, commitment to quality on the menu at Phelan Family Brands

CEO and co-Owner Grant Phelan discusses the family business, including its newest member, Deep Lagoon Seafood & Oyster House.

Arts + Entertainment
Eat + Drink

By Beginning to End Interiors | B2End
February 20, 2025

Are You Truly Ready for Your Remodeling Project?

“We’re here to help our clients navigate the often overwhelming maze of design and renovation decisions,” says Alan Gravley. “There are more misconceptions out there than you might think.”