Suncoast Searchlight

Sarasota County Fight Over Homelessness Services Could Test Religious Freedom

Remnant Church has resumed full services despite a county zoning violation notice and says it plans to challenge the restrictions in court. The dispute comes as the U.S. Supreme Court prepares to hear a similar religious zoning case out of Kentucky.

1:29pm By Emily Andersen/Suncoast Searchlight

Magnificent Midnight Pass

Photo of the Week: Midnight Pass, October 2026

Two years after Hurricanes Helene and Milton forced open Midnight Pass, photographer Damon Powers checks in.

12:16pm By Damon Powers

Things to Do

What to Do in Sarasota and Manatee Counties This Week

From a cappella harmonies and collard greens royalty to Cuban rhythms, art walks and talks, craft markets and more, here’s what to do in Sarasota and Manatee counties this week.

10/15/2026 By Kim Doleatto

Best of Sarasota

Announcing the Best of Sarasota 2026!

We've been celebrating the best city in the world for 35 years.

10/15/2026

Sponsored Content

Where Wonder Begins Again

The Florida Center’s Wonder Gala helps children and families find healing, hope and a path forward.

10/14/2026

Grant Report

CareerEdge Receives $745,000 Workforce Training Grant

Plus, funding for All Faiths Food Bank, the Pines of Sarasota Foundation and more.

10/12/2026 By Staff

💚💚💚

PINC Is Back This December!

Tickets are now on sale for the most creative day in Sarasota, which returns to the Sarasota Opera House on Dec. 10, followed by the inspiring—and delicious—PINC Ideas dinner on Dec. 11.

10/12/2026 By Staff

Fast Track

Library Foundation for Sarasota County Names Tanna Horner as New Executive Director

Plus, new leadership at the Sarasota County Fire Department, Sarasota Opera, Innovation Academy SRQ and more.

10/12/2026 By Staff

Orchids and Art

In Selby Gardens' Orchid Show, Live and Imagined Beauties Mingle

Artist Christian Sampson has collaborated with the gardens on this year's show paying homage to the orchid.

10/12/2026 By Kay Kipling

Sponsored Content

Legendary Violinist Gil Shaham Brings Glorious Beethoven Concerto to Sarasota

Music Director Giancarlo Guerrero looks forward to reuniting with one of classical music’s superstars to deliver a supreme live concert experience for Sarasota audiences.

10/12/2026

The Calm Before the Storm

Photo of the Week: Sunset Over the Ringling Bridge

Even the places we pass every day can become extraordinary in the right light.

10/09/2026 By Damon Powers

Weather Report

Isaias Comes Ashore Tonight. It's the 11th Major Hurricane to Hit the Gulf Coast in 10 Years.

The storm is now a major Category 3 hurricane with 120 mph winds.

10/09/2026 By Bob Bunting

In Memoriam

Remembering Architect Carl Abbott

The last surviving member of the original Sarasota School of Architecture leaves a legacy of sculptural homes, international recognition and buildings connected to their surroundings.

10/09/2026 By Kim Doleatto

Boo!

Your Ultimate Guide to Halloween in Sarasota

Enjoy the season with these fun fall events.

10/08/2026 By The Undead-itors

Development

Sarasota County Rejects D.R. Horton Settlement, Pursues Land Purchase Next to Celery Fields

After rejecting a settlement allowing 126 homes, commissioners directed staff to negotiate a possible purchase of roughly 51 acres beside the Celery Fields.

10/08/2026 By Kim Doleatto

Suncoast Searchlight

Suncoast Nonprofits Preparing for Potential Cuts if Property Tax Amendment Passes

If the referendum passes, Sarasota County could lose almost $400 million in tax revenue over the next five years, while Manatee County could lose almost $500 million, according to projections by the Florida Association of Counties.

10/08/2026 By Emily Andersen/Suncoast Searchlight

Sponsored Content

Three Visionary Choreographers. One Extraordinary Program.

Experience a Company premiere, Ashton masterpieces, and a contemporary tribute in an unforgettable weekend of dance.

10/07/2026

TROPICAL UPDATE

Will Isaias Impact Sarasota?

Sarasota’s hurricane expert tells us what to expect as a storm brews in the Gulf of Mexico.

10/07/2026 By Bob Bunting

Conservation Crossroad

What Sarasota County’s Conservation Questions—and Amendment 3—Could Mean for Remaining Open Land

Two local ballot questions would extend Sarasota County’s land-preservation program and borrowing authority. A statewide property-tax amendment could leave the program with less money to work with.

10/06/2026 By Kim Doleatto