Ballroom dancers from around the state of Florida came out to show off their stuff Wednesday, August 3 in the ballroom of the Ritz Carlton Sarasota for the Florida State DanceSport Championships.

Scattered rain storms today created a picture-perfect moment.

The Payne Park Skate Park in downtown Sarasota is a great place to hang out with friends and get some practice time on either your skateboard or scooter.

Donna Tortorice, co-owner of Pop Craft, poses out by her cart Monday, August 1 on the sidewalk across the street from Hollywood 20. Tortorice's co-owner is her son, Martin Scott, who makes the all natural artisan popsicles. Flavors range from the typical icy strawberry lemon to a creamy Mexican chocolate to the more unique watermelon dill.

Volunteers came out to learn about seagrass and how to monitor and collect data about seagrass Saturday, July 30 at the Turtle Beach Community Center. Led by environmental speicalist Amanda Dominguez, volunteers were taught about how to properly identify certain types of seagrass, as well as how much seagrass is covering the area as well as what the epiphytic algae coverage is like on the seagrass.

Dozens of families gathered July 30 at Kiddie Academy in Lakewood Ranch for the preschool's Storytime LIVE! event. Children enjoyed an appearance by the Pancake Pig, as well as snow cones, popcorn and arts and crafts.

The Junior League of Sarasota hosted a summer meet and greet for prospective members July 28 at the Polo Grill and Bar. Attendees enjoyed snacks and games while learning about the organization.

The Alta Vista Neighborhood got together for a picnic Thursday evening at Payne Park. The picnic was attended by about 25 neighbors and was catered by Panera.

The Longboat Key, Lido Key and St. Armands Chamber of Commerce had a luncheon Thursday, July 28 at Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar.

Exotic touches from the owners' travels complement the native flora in their garden.

Have you seen this pumpkin before?

Dozens of East County residents enjoyed a taste of summer during the Humane Society at Lakewood Ranch's first Dog Days of Summer hot dog competition and festival July 24 at Greenbrook Adventure Park. Families and pet-lovers enjoyed sampling a variety of hot dogs produced by local businesses, music, games, shows and more. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Humane Society at Lakewood Ranch.