ABOUT SARASOTA

A pampering sun and a beautiful bay have made of Sarasota what it is today, a unique city on the southwest coast of Florida. When "discovered" at the turn of the previous century it was no more than an insignificant fishing village with a dock. But its natural beauty caught the eye of some notable visitors such as Bertha Honore Palmer (Chicago business woman and socialite), Owen Burns (visionary developer), Andrew McAnsh (keen-eyed entrepreneur), and John Ringling (famed circus mogul). Word spread.

By mid 1920s the boom was in full swing and visitors became settlers. From a few thousand, Sarasota's population quickly grew to 15,000 and growth continues today. Current city population is 55,000 (2006). Visitors flock to Sarasota each year drawn by the most beautiful beaches in the world. Though not a big metropolis by any means, Sarasota boasts of its own performing arts hall, its own orchestra, the opera, the ballet, a branch of the University of South Florida, several theater groups, choral ensembles and a jazz club. Something for everybody.

Sarasota is a vibrant center for practitioners of all arts. It beckons and inspires.

Sarasota is unique. Ergo this unique tribute.

Poet Jack Veeger and photographer Patricia Nebel have captured in pictures and poesy the essence of this remarkably beautiful Gulf Coast Community. Sarasota: A Tribute in Verse and Vision offers a unique view of a singularly dynamic and culturally sophisticated city that has evolved over the years into a year-around fun spot for visitors from the worldf over. This book is certain to be a keepsake for residents who love today's Sarasota, and out-of-towners who wish to take back fond memories of their vacation here.

— Jeff LaHurd, Author/Historian