• Alternate Text

  • Loading

  • Sand Bucket List
  • Health Observed
  • Crossword
  • Contests
  • Newsletters
  • e-Newspaper App
  • Longboat
    • News
    • Cops Corner
    • Real Estate
    • Business
    • Neighbors
    • Opinion
  • East County
    • News
    • Real Estate
    • Business
    • Neighbors
    • Schools
    • Sports
    • Opinion
  • Sarasota
    • News
    • Cops Corner
    • Real Estate
    • Business
    • Neighbors
    • Schools
    • Sports
    • Opinion
    • Siesta Key
  • Arts + Entertainment
    • Eat + Drink
    • Arts + Culture
    • Reviews
    • Things To Do
    • Black Tie
    • Spotlight Partners
  • Things to Do
  • Galleries
  • More
    • Hurricane Season
    • Elections
    • Health Observed
    • Sand Bucket List
    • Calendar
    • Celebrations
    • Contests
    • Tributes
    • Submit a Celebration
    • Submit a Tribute
    • Public Notices
    • Classifieds
  • Longboat
    • Longboat
    • News
    • Cops Corner
    • Real Estate
    • Business
    • Neighbors
    • Opinion
  • East County
    • East County
    • News
    • Real Estate
    • Business
    • Neighbors
    • Schools
    • Sports
    • Opinion
  • Sarasota
    • Sarasota
    • News
    • Cops Corner
    • Real Estate
    • Business
    • Neighbors
    • Schools
    • Sports
    • Opinion
    • Siesta Key
  • Arts + Entertainment
    • Arts + Entertainment
    • Eat + Drink
    • Arts + Culture
    • Reviews
    • Things To Do
    • Black Tie
    • Spotlight Partners
  • Things to Do
  • Galleries
  • More
    • More
    • Hurricane Season
    • Elections
    • Health Observed
    • Sand Bucket List
    • Calendar
    • Celebrations
    • Contests
    • Tributes
    • Submit a Celebration
    • Submit a Tribute
    • Public Notices
    • Classifieds
  • Sand Bucket List
  • Health Observed
  • Crossword
  • Contests
  • Newsletters
  • e-Newspaper App

Your Observer

Sarasota High boys basketball senior Mike Drayton.
    By
  • Ryan Kohn
  • February 13, 2024
Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Mike Drayton

The Sarasota High senior boys basketball player was named the FACA District 16 Class 7A Player of the Year on Feb. 13.

  • Sarasota
  • Sports
The core library space is estimated to be around 8,000 square feet.
    By
  • Carter Weinhofer
  • February 13, 2024
Community shares input on county-run Longboat library project

Sarasota County kicked off resident participation in shaping a new library on Longboat Key.

  • Longboat Key
  • News
This Esplanade home at 5222 Benito Court sold for $1,775,000. It has three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths and 3,665 square feet of living area.
    By
  • Adam Hughes
  • February 13, 2024
Top residential real estate sales for Jan. 29 to Feb. 2 in Lakewood Ranch

An Esplanade home on Benito Court tops the week's sales at $1.78 million.

  • East County
  • Real Estate
Bob Delaney
    By
  • Petra Rivera
  • February 13, 2024
Former undercover cop and NBA ref recounts infiltrating Mafia

Bob Delaney explains how he deals with post-traumatic stress disorder following his undercover career.

  • Longboat Key
  • Neighbors
Public Works employee calls for backup over Bayfront Park dispute
    By
  • Carter Weinhofer
  • February 13, 2024
Public Works employee calls for backup over Bayfront Park dispute

The worker requested police assistance when individuals protested the new court restriping. This and other Longboat Key Police reports in this week's Cops Corner.

  • Longboat Key
  • Cops Corner
Eric Guimond and Paulina Whyte offer dance with the St. Barbara Hellenic Dancers in 2023. Whyte is following in the footsteps of her mother, Tina Whyte, who performed in the first Greek Glendi 40 years ago.
    By
  • Liz Ramos
  • February 13, 2024
St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church prepares for 40th annual festival

Volunteers who have been there since the Greek Glendi's inception celebrate 40 years of tradition.

  • East County
  • Neighbors
True Fitness provided all new equipment for Reed Medical Group.
    By
  • Petra Rivera
  • February 13, 2024
Reed Medical Group expands with new physical therapy suite

The PT team at Reed Medical Group moves to a suite with all-new equipment to serve Longboaters.

  • Longboat Key
  • Business
The current Planning Commission as of Feb. 8: Lorraine Prosser, Cindy Kebba, John DeLesline, Paul Rutledge, Richard Bedford, Jeffrey Eslinger and Monaca Onstad.
    By
  • Lesley Dwyer
  • February 13, 2024
Two East County residents join Manatee Planning Commission

Monaca Onstad and Jeffrey Eslinger were appointed to the board on Feb. 1.

  • East County
  • News
American bumblebees are important pollinators for food crops. Light pollution disrupts their day and night cycle, which affects reproduction.
    By
  • Miri Hardy
  • February 13, 2024
Light pollution disrupts lives of plants and animals

Excessive artificial light at night changes wildlife behaviors, alters ecosystems and damages natural communities.

  • East County
  • Neighbors
Following a ceremonial start to demolition, site clearing is expected to begin at the Sarasota Kennel Club in the coming weeks.
    By
  • Andrew Warfield
  • February 13, 2024
Demolition set to begin at Sarasota Kennel Club

After 95 years, the 26-acre site on University Parkway will be cleared for unspecified future development.

  • Sarasota
  • News
Community Foundation raises $4.21 million to help those in crisis
    By
  • Observer Staff
  • February 13, 2024
Community Foundation raises $4.21 million to help those in crisis

The annual Season of Sharing campaign will benefit needs identified by Community Foundation of Sarasota County.

  • Sarasota
  • News
Dick and Abby Schlorf
    By
  • Petra Rivera
  • February 12, 2024
Longboat Key tennis legend Dick Schlorf dies at 85

Dick Schlorf, who was instrumental to the creation of the Longboat Key Public Tennis Center, died Feb. 2 at age 85.

  • Longboat Key
  • News
LBK police share strategies to avoid online scams
    By
  • Carter Weinhofer
  • February 12, 2024
LBK police share strategies to avoid online scams

Longboat Key Deputy Chief Rubino spoke to the Bay Isles Safety Committee about what to look out for with the scams and how to report them.

  • Longboat Key
  • News
Smoke and flames billow on Alta Vista Street on Monday after a home caught on fire.
    By
  • Observer Staff
  • February 12, 2024
Firefighters respond to Sarasota house fire

Sarasota County firefighters responded to a 911 call of a structure fire at 11:45 a.m. Feb. 12 on Ponder Avenue.

  • Sarasota
  • News
Connie DiMaggio, Sparky Pashkow, Karen Pashkow and Greg Bodkin
    By
  • Petra Rivera
  • February 12, 2024
Longboat Harbour throws Super Bowl party

The Rec Hall committee found creative ways to spice up the Super Bowl with themed dishes.

  • Longboat Key
  • Neighbors
Sarasota Police Department debuts new patch
    By
  • Observer Staff
  • February 12, 2024
Sarasota Police Department debuts new patch

The Sarasota Police Department has debuted a new patch affixed with Sarasota’s new city seal.

  • Sarasota
  • News
Katie Bagley, a third grade academy teacher at Prine Elementary; Joadie Durfee, a fifth grade teacher at Barbara A. Harvey Elementary; Debra McCarthy, a language arts teacher at Lakewood Ranch High; and Jessica Spence, a first grade teacher at Gilbert W. McNeal Elementary, wait in anticipation to find out the winner of Educator of the Year.
    By
  • Liz Ramos
  • February 12, 2024
Four east Bradenton educators honored to be among county's best

Two teachers and two support employees were honored as finalists for Educator and Support Employee of the Year.

  • East County
  • Schools
Braden River sophomore Payton Mangay-Ayam said she misses sweets like Jeremiah's Italian Ice during the weightlifting season, but the sacrifices are worth the results she sees.
    By
  • Ryan Kohn
  • February 12, 2024
Braden River High's weightlifters raise the bar

The Pirates' girls team will compete Feb. 17 at the state championship meet in Lakeland.

  • East County
  • Sports
Berries are high in flavonoids, which makes them a great addition to a heart healthy diet.
    By
  • Mirabai Holland
  • February 12, 2024
A simple formula for a happy heart

Easy lifestyle modifications can make a big difference in your heart's health.

  • Longboat Key
  • Opinion
Vanessa Baugh, a Manatee County commissioner for more than 10 years representing District 5, retired in 2023.
    By
  • Jay Heater
  • February 11, 2024
State won't pursue Sunshine Law charges against Vanessa Baugh, Mike Rahn

The State Attorney's Office found no evidence to pursue charges against Vanessa Baugh, the former Manatee County District 5 commissioner, and Mike Rahn, the current District 4 commissioner.

  • East County
  • News
Vice Principal Robin Hamilton and Principal John Hettler run the Sea of Strengths Academy.
    By
  • Lesley Dwyer
  • February 11, 2024
Lakewood Ranch school emphasizes joy of learning

Sea of Strengths Academy, which serves third through 12th graders with learning disabilities, instills confidence in its students alongside its highly structured approach to academics.

  • East County
  • Schools
Susan Redgrave's dog Molly with a "Kiss Me" shirt
    By
  • Ian Swaby
  • February 11, 2024
Pups and people celebrate Valentine’s Day at Boo’s

The Boo’s Ice House & Dog Bar Valentine’s Day Celebration featured vendors, raffles, live music and drinks, and plenty of wagging tails and affection.

  • Sarasota
  • Neighbors
A rendering of the Kolschowsky Research & Education Institute at Sarasota Memorial Hospital.
    By
  • Observer Staff
  • February 11, 2024
Construction of new SMH research building reaches max height

The $75 million Kolschowsky Research & Education Institute is scheduled to open in mid-2025.

  • Sarasota
  • News
Lakewood Ranch's Steve and Laura Saladino finish the Run for the Beads together. Steve says Laura, who married him 31 years ago, "is still trying to get away," but she can't run fast enough.
    By
  • Jay Heater
  • February 10, 2024
Run for the Beads returns to Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch

The Mardi Gras-themed event produced a fun atmosphere while generating serious funds for community nonprofits.

  • East County
  • Neighbors
Linn Torres at the "New to You" art sale at All Angels by the Sea Episcopal Church
    By
  • Petra Rivera
  • February 10, 2024
All Angels' art sale raises record amount of money in first 3 days

The annual art sale at All Angels by the Sea has received more than 300 art pieces.

  • Longboat Key
  • Neighbors
Anna and Elsa walk their fans over to a better photo spot. The sisters were mobbed with hugs the minute they arrived.
    By
  • Lesley Dwyer
  • February 10, 2024
Movie in the Park at Waterside Place attracts 'Frozen' super fans

It was a special night in Lakewood Ranch to stay up late and dress like your favorite princess.

  • East County
  • Neighbors
According to staff there are more than 700 short-term rentals operating throughout the city in neighborhoods such as Arlington Park.
    By
  • Andrew Warfield
  • February 10, 2024
Vacation rental ordinance expanded citywide

The registration period for short-term rentals in Sarasota will be July 1 to Oct. 31, and the new law will go into effect Jan. 1, 2025.

  • Sarasota
  • News
Summit offers residents chance to quiz Manatee representatives
    By
  • Lesley Dwyer
  • February 10, 2024
Summit offers residents chance to quiz Manatee representatives

The summit is scheduled from 9:30 a.m. to noon on Feb. 23 at the Lakewood Ranch Library.

  • East County
  • News
Longboat Key resident Rusty Chinnis offers private fly casting lessons.
    By
  • Carter Weinhofer
  • February 10, 2024
The art of fly casting: Lessons from a local guide

A Longboat Observer reporter spends an afternoon learning fly casting from local fisherman and resident Rusty Chinnis.

  • Longboat Key
  • Neighbors
Attendees dance together, with Talia Von Bender, Jamie Taylor and Marisa Von Bender in front.
    By
  • Ian Swaby
  • February 9, 2024
Parents and kids dance to same beat at Family Fun & Resource Night

Booker Middle School hosted kids activities and key community resources.

  • Sarasota
  • Schools
Nora Patterson in 2015.
    By
  • Jim Stinson
  • February 9, 2024
Former Sarasota mayor, county commissioner dies at 79

Nora Patterson had lived in Sarasota County since 1970.

  • Sarasota
  • News
Ed's Tavern was founded in Lakewood Ranch in 2008.
    By
  • Jay Heater
  • February 9, 2024
Ed's Tavern to host block party at Main Street at Lakewood Ranch

Co-owners Bob Bender and Albert Myara wanted to celebrate their 10 years of ownership.

  • East County
  • Neighbors
Aster & Links in downtown Sarasota will be made up of two 10-story buildings with a total of 424 units.
    By
  • Louis Llovio
  • February 9, 2024
One Main Plaza secures $56 million in financing

The downtown development consists of two 10-story residential towers with 424 apartments and 778 parking spaces.

  • Sarasota
  • News
County Administrator Scott Hopes served as Manatee County administrator for 22 months.
    By
  • Jay Heater
  • February 8, 2024
Former Manatee administrator faces three felony charges

The State Attorney's Office will pursue three third-degree felony charges against Scott Hopes.

  • East County
  • News
University Park's Bart Schubert lip-synchs to Robert Palmer's "Simply Irresistible" while Dancing Queens, a dance group from University Park, dances in the background.
    By
  • Liz Ramos
  • February 8, 2024
Dancers, models take center stage at University Park Fashion Show

Proceeds from the University Park Women's Club event benefit area charities.

  • East County
  • Neighbors
Crews doing underground repairs at Bogey Lane and Putting Green Lane on Feb. 8.
    By
  • Carter Weinhofer
  • February 8, 2024
Boil water advisory in place for Longboat Key street

The advisory comes after a water main break on Feb. 8 and will stay in effect until a safe water sample is obtained.

  • Longboat Key
  • News
« 186 187 188 189 190 191 192 193 194 195 »
The best of Your Observer, delivered directly to your inbox

Get the latest in news, sports, schools, arts and things to do in Sarasota, Siesta Key, Longboat Key and East County.

Sign Up

Latest News

1
Squeaky Wheel Fringe runs June 2-7.
  • June 2, 2026
The best things to do in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Longboat for June 4-10
2
This is not how to 'cut' taxes
  • June 2, 2026
This is not how to 'cut' taxes
3
'Jesus lizard' rescued on Longboat Key
  • June 2, 2026
'Jesus lizard' rescued on Longboat Key
4
As a junior last season, Jayla Griffin led the Cougars in points, rebounds and assists per game en route to the FHSAA Class 3A-Region 2 semifinals.
  • June 2, 2026
Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Jayla Griffin
5
This Country Club Village home at 13318 Palmers Creek Terrace sold for $3.2 million. Built in 2005, it has five bedrooms, six baths, a pool and 5,874 square feet of living area.
  • June 2, 2026
Top residential real estate sales for May 18-22 in Lakewood Ranch

App

Download the Your Observer app

Stay in the know with the latest local news. Any device, anytime, anywhere.

DOWNLOAD NOW

Contact

  • 1970 Main St.
  • Third Floor
  • Sarasota, FL 34236
  • Phone: 941-366-3468
  • FPN Verified

Extra, Extra!

  • Newsletters
  • App
  • Crossword
  • Contests

more

  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Classifieds
  • Advertise
  • Rack Locations
  • Jobs
  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility Options

sister sites

  • Business Observer
  • Jax Daily Record
  • Orange Observer
  • Accessibility Options
  • Copyright © 2026 Observer Media Group Inc., All Rights Reserved
Sign Up for Daily Headlines

A daily dose of news from Longboat Key, East County, Sarasota and Siesta Key.

Sign Up for In Case You Missed It

A Saturday dose of the week's top stories from Sarasota, Longboat Key and East County.

Anytime. Anywhere. Observer.

From in-depth local reporting to real-time breaking news, stay connected to the stories shaping our community with the Your Observer app.

Download Now for Free