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Neighbors

Michael Taaffe, the chair of the Nathan Benderson Park Conservancy, sees great potential in the park. (Photo by Liz Ramos)
    By
  • Liz Ramos
  • May 17, 2022
Nathan Benderson Park Conservancy chair shares bright future for the park

Michael Taaffe, the chair of the Nathan Benderson Park Conservancy, shares his dreams to make Benderson Park a thriving gathering spot for the surrounding community.

  • LWR Life
JoAnn Shakon and Jim Wingert of the Rotary Club of Lakewood Ranch join with Mike Hornyak of The UPS Store to show off donated books.
    By
  • Jay Heater
  • May 17, 2022
UPS Store in Lakewood Ranch donates 1,707 books to the Rotary's Books for Kids program

The Books for Kids program distributes more than 30,000 books a year now and has given away more than 100,000 books since 2013.

  • East County
  • Neighbors
    By
  • Harry Sayer
  • May 16, 2022
Crowds march in Sarasota in support of Roe v. Wade

The march was held May 14.

  • Sarasota
  • Neighbors
Bill and Judy Carman. Courtesy photo.
    By
  • Nat Kaemmerer
  • May 16, 2022
Former St. Armands Circle business owner and staple dies at 79

Judy Carman, who owned Carman's Shoes and Handbags with husband Bill, was dedicated to her family first and foremost.

  • Longboat Key
  • Neighbors
Stephen Moody works with the stylists at Yellow Strawberry.
    By
  • Jay Heater
  • May 16, 2022
Lakewood Ranch hair stylists get lessons from a legend

Stephen Moody, a noted educator of stylists, teaches his craft at Yellow Strawberry Salon.

  • East County
  • Neighbors
A history of the club served as a placemat for attendees.
    By
  • Nat Kaemmerer
  • May 16, 2022
Kiwanis Club of Longboat Key celebrates 50 years

The club held a brunch at the Lazy Lobster to raise funds for their efforts.

  • Longboat Key
  • Neighbors
    By
  • Nat Kaemmerer
  • May 16, 2022
Temple Beth Israel hosts May Shabbat dinner

More than 70 members and guests attended the social dinner.

  • Longboat Key
  • Neighbors
Lakewood Ranch resident Cynthia Friedman pets a mini Aussie, Willow.
    By
  • Ian Swaby
  • May 15, 2022
Barks and Brews event in Sarasota benefits Nate's Honor Animal Rescue

The event at The Green at UTC featured adoptable dogs, craft brews and live music.

  • East County
  • Neighbors
    By
  • Harry Sayer
  • May 14, 2022
Heroes come to life at Free Comic Book Day

Costumes range from simple to extravagant at annual event designed to connect readers with a classic art form.

  • Sarasota
  • Neighbors
    By
  • Harry Sayer
  • May 13, 2022
Cardinal Mooney students graduate at Van Wezel

The graduation ceremony was held May 13.

  • Sarasota
  • Neighbors
    By
  • Nat Kaemmerer
  • May 13, 2022
Josh the Otter swims by Tuttle Elementary School

The Rotary Club of Longboat Key taught students about water safety with Josh's help.

  • Longboat Key
  • Neighbors
    By
  • Nat Kaemmerer
  • May 13, 2022
Longboat Key swans lose chance at cygnets

One female laid an egg this year, but it was deemed not viable, says Key swan keeper David Novak.

  • Longboat Key
  • Neighbors
Deanna Rollyson (Courtesy photo)
    By
  • Nat Kaemmerer
  • May 13, 2022
Longboat Key resident aims to raise COPD awareness

Deanna Rollyson was diagnosed with COPD and is starting an effort to help other women with the disease.

  • Longboat Key
  • Neighbors
    By
  • Observer Staff
  • May 12, 2022
East County weather page photo: May 12

Gordon Silver snapped this polka dot wasp moth on lantana in Del Webb at Lakewood Ranch.

  • East County
  • Neighbors
    By
  • Observer Staff
  • May 12, 2022
Sarasota weather page photo: May 12

Diane Suner captured a curious seagull on Lido Beach.

  • Sarasota
  • Neighbors
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Latest News

1
Everything from fun fashion to deals on furniture can be found at the upcoming Trash to Treasure rummage sale.
  • February 7, 2026
Trash to Treasure sale making its return
2
Suncoast Waterkeepers regularly tests water quality at 12 sites in Sarasota Bay and its adjacent waters, including the Linley Street boat ramp on Longboat Key.
  • February 7, 2026
Sarasota, Manatee bayside beaches graded for water safety
3
Three comedians including Bradenton's Tim Boyd will perform at the “Hearts of Hope: A Valentine’s Comedy Night” fundraiser to benefit Harbor 58, Foster the Family, and Bring on the Ministry on Feb. 13.
  • February 6, 2026
Nonprofits to host Valentine's comedy fundraiser in Lakewood Ranch
4
Sarasota nonprofit Casting For The Kids helps children with cancer and their families breathe a little easier.
  • February 6, 2026
Annual fishing tournament casts for a cause
5
Work by Janet Echelman in “Radical Softness” at Sarasota Art Museum through April 26.
  • February 6, 2026
New creations, global voices, celebrations light up our cultural horizon

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