A Visit to the Aiki Shrine

The Aikido Master of Myakka

How Sarasota played a major role in bringing aikido from Japan to the United States.

10/16/2023 By Bethany Ritz

Hot Topics

How to Spot the Early, Lesser-Known Signs of Perimenopause

If you’re experiencing insomnia, heart problems or anxiety, it could be perimenopause—even if you’re still in your 30s.

07/05/2023 By Bethany Ritz

Let's Go!

Kennedy Space Center Is a Top Reason to Visit the Space Coast

But there’s far more to see beyond that.

06/29/2023 By Bethany Ritz

Flashback

Photo: Renowned Clown Emmett Kelly as 'Weary Willie,' Circa 1955

Who remembers this iconic photo?

06/23/2023 By Bethany Ritz

Flashback

Photo: A Young Father Pushing a Baby Stroller Through Sarasota Trailer Park, 1946

Post-Depression years in Sarasota didn't look bad at all for this young family, thanks in part to the Tin Can Tourist Convention of 1938.

06/16/2023 By Bethany Ritz

Flashback

Photo: An Aerial View of the John Ringling Causeway, 1946

A look back on a bridge that changed Sarasota's keys—and has been rebuilt twice since its first construction in 1926.

06/09/2023 By Bethany Ritz

Learn the Ropes

Boating Is a Beloved Florida Pastime, But It's Not Always Smooth Sailing

With Florida ranking No. 1 in boating accidents in the country, here are some stats to consider as we take to the waves this summer.

05/26/2023 By Bethany Ritz

Flashback

Photo: A Sarasota Beach Bathhouse, Circa 1925

This private bathhouse was owned by the Edson Keith family, who were part of the elite Chicagoan clique migrating to Sarasota at the time.

05/25/2023 By Bethany Ritz

Things to Do

A Month Full of Pride Events

June is LGBTQ+ Pride Month and there are a slew of opportunities for people to join together and celebrate in Sarasota.

05/22/2023 By Bethany Ritz

Imaginarium

Cosplayers Descended on Selby Library on Saturday. Here Are Some of the Best Costumes We Saw.

SRQ Con took over both floors of the library, elevating the space into an otherworldly expanse of imagination.

05/22/2023 Photography by Hannah Phillips By Bethany Ritz

Flashback

Myakka River State Park, Circa 1950

One of the first protected lands in our area, the park opened in 1942.

05/18/2023 By Bethany Ritz

Mother's Day

Looking For a Book for Mom? Here Are Our Top Picks For Mother's Day

If mom's too busy to pick out a book these days, help her out so she can cozy up with one of these great reads.

05/11/2023 By Bethany Ritz

Flying Colors

The Progress Pride Flag is Flying at City Hall This Week. Here’s What It Stands For.

"We’re not a political party. We are humans, and this is about a community coming together to show support," says Shannon Fortner, executive director and founder of the Fabulous Arts Foundation. 

05/10/2023 By Bethany Ritz

Listening to Diverse Voices

Rosa Grillo on Sharing Her Family's History With the Smithsonian

"The most important thing for me is that the world understands that the American Latino community is as varied as the larger American community."

05/04/2023 By Bethany Ritz

Earth Day Delights

How to Celebrate Earth Day in Sarasota-Manatee

From a scrub jay festival to tree giveaways, these events provide inspiration—or a sapling that will keep the celebration going year-round.

04/19/2023 By Bethany Ritz

For the Love of the Sea Cow

Red Tide Is Affecting Manatees. What We Can Do to Help?

Red tide levels might have lessened for now, but the bloom is expected to persist. These gentle giants need our help.

03/21/2023 By Bethany Ritz

Essential Intelligence

Everything You Need to Know About American Alligators

Lesser-known facts about our hair-raising neighbors.

03/20/2023 By Bethany Ritz

El Fuego

Juan Montenegro Will Talk Salsa With Izzy Sanábria and Sarasota Magazine on WSLR This Friday

Sarasota Magazine managing editor Bethany Ritz will join Montenegro and Sanábria to discuss the Salsa King's influence.

03/06/2023 By Staff

Flashback

Payne Park Was The First Site for Spring Training in Sarasota, 1924-1990

New York Giants' manager John J. "Mugsy" McGraw was the first to bring a team for spring training here.

02/24/2023 By Bethany Ritz