Education

Developing Successful Children

Learn more about the educational initiatives offered through The Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County Article by Michelle Parnell | Photography by Photo Guru SRQ The Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County focuses on preparing children for starting school and ensuring that they read on grade level through numerous resources, services, and programs. Currently, the ELC serves over 7,000 children in Manatee County in addition to the countless thousands helped since its founding in 1999. ...

Health + Wellness

Empowering Families

Changing Lives at the Ricardo Almeida Brazilian Ji Jitsu Academy Article by Lisa Michel | Photography by Photo Guru SRQ Upon meeting Ricardo and his wife Monica, you immediately sense their passion for Jiu Jitsu, supporting families and building a community. The Ricardo Almeida Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy opened three years ago in Lakewood Ranch and is the second academy owned by the family. Ricardo’s impressive career began as a young boy growing up in Brazil. His dad enrolled him and his...

Arts + Culture

Bringing Stories to Life

Local teen Nya Chambless shares important messages in new film "My Guardian Angel" Article by Michelle Parnell | Photography by Photos: Jerry and Michelle Chambless, Barbara Banks For 15-year-old Nya Chambless, crafting narratives and recording them on film has been a passion since early in her life. Nya made her first film when she was six years old and as she matured, her dad, Producer Jerry Chambless, encouraged her to take inspiration from life experiences. Her newest film,  My Guardian...

Local Services

No Better Friend

The healing power of dogs Article by Lisa Michel | Photography by Canines For Heroes In the quiet moments of reflection, heroes often discover their true calling. For Mark LaFlamme, a decorated veteran of the US Air Force, this calling materialized in an unexpected yet impactful way. After enduring the harrowing experiences of combat and coping with personal loss, Mark found solace and purpose in the companionship of a dog named Allie. This bond would eventually lead him to establish Canines...

Education

Unlocked Learning Potential

Specialized Reading and Handwriting Programs for Your Child Article by Jillian Pendergast Edge Therapies is thrilled to announce the launch of three expert-led small group programs designed to build strong foundations in literacy and handwriting for children ages 3–10. Starting the week of August 18th, these highly targeted programs will be offered at our brand-new office space in Waterside. Led by licensed speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists, our programs use...

Local Services

Finding Forever Homes

The Mission Behind Every Wag and Purr Article by Lisa Michel | Photography by Moments Unleashed by Sherri Krams Photography A tree-lined driveway welcomes visitors as they arrive at the Humane Society at Lakewood Ranch. The 5.6-acre campus provides open spaces for dogs to play along with multiple structures that provide homes for cats, dogs and rabbits. The sense of love and compassion for these rescues is palpable. The organization's mission is to offer a safe environment and shelter for...

Sports + Recreation

Grit and Grace in the Show Ring

Steer Showing in Lakewood Ranch Article by Lisa Michel | Photography by Jessica Ryherd Alexis Rissler, a Senior at Lakewood Ranch High School, is part of the​ Agriscience Program and National FFA Organization for Show Steers. The school provides hands-on learning in labs and outdoor facilities such as a steer barn, swine barn and pastures. Show steers are beef cattle raised and exhibited by students as part of their agricultural education and leadership development. Steers are carefully...

Real Estate

Search Beyond the Shore

Four Gulf Coast Properties Define the Future of Luxury Living Article by Brooke Bezet | Photography by Provided by Realtors Florida’s Gulf Coast continues to attract discerning buyers seeking sun-drenched serenity, elegant design, and powerful investment potential. From downtown Sarasota to the white sands of Anna Maria Island, four standout properties currently on the market (as of May 2025) offer exceptional living experiences—each tailored to a different vision of paradise. Represented by...

Health + Wellness

Wander Without Leaving

Explore the Beauty of Robinson Preserve This Summer Article by Brooke Bezet | Photography by Anthony Marino (MarinoProduxtions) When we think of summer in Southwest Florida, our beautiful beaches often steal the spotlight—but don’t sleep on the incredible preserves that offer just as much sunshine, serenity, and adventure. This season, whether you’re embracing a "staycation," making the most of those cherished Summer Fridays, or living your best life as a weekend warrior, it’s the perfect time...

Travel

Coastal Comeback

Resilience and Recovery Along the Shoreline Article by Brooke Bezet | Photography by Gulf Coast Realty Media After enduring the impacts of hurricanes Debbie, Milton, and Helene over the past seasons, the Gulf Coast’s beloved beach communities—Siesta Key, Lido Beach, and Anna Maria Island—are writing a powerful story of resilience, recovery, and renewal. Each storm brought its own challenges, from dune erosion and infrastructure damage to prolonged power outages and temporary closures. But in...