A Native Worth Noticing

The Passionflower, Sarasota’s Most Striking Plant, Is More Than Just a Pretty Face

Florida is home to approximately seven native passionflower species with the maypop passionvine, Passiflora incarnata, by far the most striking and prevalent.

04/01/2026 By Kendall Southworth

In Their Element

A Sarasota Couple Built One of the Top-Rated Sustainable Homes in the Nation

Let's take a look inside.

04/01/2026 By Kendall Southworth

Politics

Will Sydney Gruters Run for Congress?

Gruters, the executive director and vice president of advancement at the New College of Florida Foundation and wife of Republican National Committee chair Joe Gruters, just got a ringing endorsement from Donald Trump.

03/25/2026 By Kendall Southworth

Suncoast Searchlight

Sarasota Erased Downtown Art Without Public Notice. Now Artists Are Seeking Damages.

Nine artists have filed claims against the city of Sarasota, alleging their rights were violated when officials removed pavement art in response to a state directive from the Florida Department of Transportation.

03/20/2026 By Derek Gilliam/Suncoast Searchlight and Carrie Seidman/ArtsBeat.org

Awards

Meet Three Local People Fighting for the Future of Our Region

This year's Climate Adaptation Center Climate Champions are Charlie Hunsicker, Sara Kane and F. John LaCivita.

03/12/2026 By Kendall Southworth

Parks for Everyone

Get Outside and Explore Our Welcoming Parks and Preserves

The region has a wealth of these restorative spaces to enjoy, no matter your passion. Here are 10 to explore.

12/01/2025 By Kendall Southworth

The Return of the Atala

Against All Odds, Florida’s Iridescent Atala Butterfly Makes a Triumphant Comeback

The Atala was considered extinct as recently as 50 years ago, the ill-timed consequence of urbanization and the overharvesting of its host plant. Now it's back—and thriving.

11/03/2025 By Kendall Southworth

Politics

Sarasota Sidewalk Art Set to Be Removed

A new state mandate bans all “non-standard” markings on streets, sidewalks and crosswalks, insisting they're safety hazards and distractions to motorists—despite research showing street art actually results in safer driving habits and fewer crashes.

08/27/2025 By Kendall Southworth

Sarasota Magazine

Kendall Southworth