This week, that “lost” pond finally made its comeback. After months of people pushing for action, Sarasota County crews and contractors rolled in and got to work. They hauled out the thick mats of weeds and brush, clearing away years of overgrowth and letting the water see daylight again.

County officials say this cleanup is part of a bigger push to keep local stormwater systems working and head off flooding. The change is striking. This previously hidden patch of water now resembles a proper retention pond. The first round of clearing made a tremendous difference, but the county promises there’s more work lined up to keep the area in shape.

For the Englewood neighborhood, it’s a real win. The pond can finally do its job, handling runoff the way it’s supposed to. Folks walking along Dearborn can actually see the water again; no more eyesore, just idyllic scenery. It’s a reminder that a little attention and effort can breathe life back into forgotten places.

County crews and contractors cleared out thick vegetation, including cattails and water lilies, from the retention pond at the west end of Dearborn Street. They’re planning to restore the pond to the way it was in 2013, when the water was clear and the aerator was running. The county says this isn’t a one-and-done fix; more maintenance is coming soon.

This project fits into a bigger plan to manage stormwater in the area, alongside projects like the Alligator Creek stream restoration and other drainage upgrades across Sarasota County.

The post From Overgrown to Overhauled: Englewood’s ‘Lost’ Pond Makes a Comeback appeared first on Englewood Review.

On Sunday, March 8, 2026, the Englewood Artist Colony is bringing its Spring Art Show downtown, turning the plaza into a lively hub for local art. This isn’t just another art fair. It’s a full-on experience.

Picture this: you’re wandering through Pioneer Plaza, the sun’s out, there’s a salty breeze, and acoustic music drifts through the air. Artists from the Englewood Artist Colony are here, showing off their freshest, one-of-a-kind pieces. You’ll see bold oil paintings that capture the Florida coast, delicate blown glass, handmade jewelry, pottery you’ll actually want to use, and sculptures that demand a closer look. The best part? You get to meet the artists, hear the stories behind their work, and support your local creative community.

There’s something for everyone. Maybe you’re redecorating, hunting for that perfect gift, or you just love discovering one-of-a-kind finds. This show has you covered. You’ll walk away with something special, and maybe a few new friends.

And as the afternoon rolls into evening, the vibe shifts. At 4:00 PM, the Dignam Family Stage lights up for a Beatles Tribute Benefit Concert. It’s more than just a concert—it’s a fundraiser for the “Musical Instruments for Students” program, helping get quality instruments into the hands of local kids.

Grab a cold drink from Charlie Foxtrot Brewing, snack your way through the food stalls, and know you’re helping the community just by being there. If you can, bring a nonperishable food item for St. David’s Jubilee Center or throw in a cash donation for student musicians.

Bring the whole family. Local food vendors will be there, and you can even try your hand at some interactive art demos. It’s the Sunday that makes you fall in love with Englewood all over again.

This is the biggest art event of the season, so don’t miss out. Come for the art, stay for the people, and soak up the creative spirit that makes Englewood shine. You know where to find us. Old Englewood Village. Pioneer Plaza. Sunday, March 8. Can’t wait to see you there.

Here’s what you need to know:
Event: Englewood Artist Colony Spring Art Show
Where: Pioneer Plaza, Downtown Englewood
When: Sunday, March 8, 2026

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Owned by Kris Hartley, the bakery and coffee house will mark five years under her ownership this May. Hartley is one of three bakers at the shop and remains deeply involved in day-to-day operations while also staying active in the community through the Chamber of Commerce, SUP Englewood’s Conservation and Coffee, a monthly gathering that explores environmental stewardship, and other local initiatives.

The shop’s warm atmosphere extends beyond food and coffee. Just inside the entry is a small food pantry where customers can drop off nonperishable items or take what they need. When donations build up, volunteers deliver the items to the Jubilee Center or other local food pantries. A community library and game center also invite visitors to linger. Manager John Watson introduced these programs as part of an effort to make the space more community-focused.

Hartley’s favorite menu items include the apple cider doughnut muffin, cinnamon rolls, a recipe she is still refining, and the Irish Car Bomb cupcake, a chocolate cake made with Guinness and topped with Jameson ganache and Bailey’s buttercream.

Looking ahead, the bakery will begin taking Valentine’s Day orders on Thursday, Feb. 5. Hartley is also exploring expanded catering options, but the kitchen’s size currently limits their growth.

On a personal note, Hartley has been dating Dennis Parks, former owner of Irving’s Coffee and Creamery, for more than a year, after he became a customer at Dearborn. Parks sold Irving’s before Hartley purchased Dearborn, leaving the pair connected not by competition, but by a shared history and love of local coffee culture.

Dearborn Coffeehouse and Bakery is at 450 West Dearborn Street. They are open daily from 7 a.m. to 3.p.m. To preorder a special Valentine’s Day treat, call 941-681-8044.

The post Dearborn Coffeehouse and Bakery Blends Community, Comfort and Craft appeared first on Englewood Review.

Thirty-six of the trees are located on the west side of the street, and six are located on the south side. The black olives were planted in 2022 as part of a streetscape project, but have since struggled. According to Sarasota County’s website, many trees are leaning, creating overhead hazards for pedestrians and vehicles. Others have root systems that have pushed up sidewalks, making the walkways uneven and unsafe.

County officials said maintenance costs for the black olives have continued to grow, and replacing them with Christmas palms will reduce long-term expenses. The palms require less irrigation, are more drought resistant, and already line the south side of the corridor.

According to Sarasota County, the black olive trees will most likely not be relocated. Officials said the selected vendor, whom has not yet been determined, will be responsible for the removal and disposal of the trees, but it is unlikely they will be able to offer the trees to citizens “…due to liability concerns.”

The project is expected to cause intermittent disruptions to on-street parking in front of businesses on West Dearborn Street. Construction timelines have not yet been released, but county representatives confirmed the tree removal and replacement will begin soon.

The post West Dearborn Street tree replacement to begin soon appeared first on Englewood Review.