Neighbors

Observer Staff
December 25, 2023

A look back at 2023 on YourObserver.com

The past year was packed with news in our area. Here are readers’ favorite stories from YourObserver.com.

Sarasota
Neighbors

Liz Ramos
December 22, 2023

East Bradenton students share Christmas wishes in letters to Santa

These Gullett, Willis and Gene Witt elementary students can't wait to see what's under their tree Christmas day.

East County
Neighbors

Jay Heater
December 22, 2023

Salvation Army bell-ringers shatter fundraising goal in Lakewood Ranch

The Lakewood Ranch crew of Salvation Army bell-ringers smashed their goal of collecting $10,000 at Publix this holiday season.

East County
Neighbors

Ian Swaby
December 21, 2023

Student-designed Lego robots battle in Fab Lab competition

The inaugural Lego RoboRumble competition pits students’ robotic Lego creations against one another for awards, prizes and learning.

Sarasota
Neighbors

Lesley Dwyer, Liz Ramos, Ryan Kohn
December 21, 2023

East County cooks share their favorite holiday recipes

Lakewood Ranch and east Bradenton residents' recipes mix tradition and love to make the holiday season special.

East County
Neighbors

Carter Weinhofer
December 20, 2023

Firefighters share 20-year fire service journey leading to Longboat

Longboat Key Fire Rescue assistant chiefs Jentzen Barton and Martin Szalbirak served in multiple fire departments together and now find themselves taking a new step on the Key.

Longboat Key
Neighbors

Petra Rivera
December 20, 2023

From Santa to Wonder Woman, Longboater spreads cheer in costume

Rotarian Nancy Rozance is a costumed crusader who brightens smiles across the Key as Wonder Woman, Josh the Otter, the Easter Bunny and Santa.

Longboat Key
Neighbors

Ian Swaby
December 19, 2023

Sarasota Santa shares what it takes to wear the red suit

Mark Welikci, who has been a fixture of the Downtown Sarasota Holiday Parade, explains what makes the perfect "Ho, ho, ho," his favorite cookie flavor, and the heart and soul of being Santa Claus.