About Siesta Times
Your Local Voice in Paradise
Our Story
Siesta Times was born from a simple belief: every community deserves thoughtful, independent journalism that captures both the daily rhythms and defining moments of local life. Founded in 2025 by Sebastian Sanchez, we're an independent publication dedicated to telling the stories that matter most to Sarasota residents.
Named after our world-renowned Siesta Key Beach—with its crystal-clear waters and sugar-white sand that draws visitors from around the globe—Siesta Times embodies the spirit of our community: welcoming yet discerning, relaxed yet engaged, and always focused on what makes Sarasota truly special.
Our Mission
We exist to inform, connect, and celebrate the Sarasota community. In an era when local journalism is more critical than ever, Siesta Times serves as your trusted source for the news, stories, and insights that shape daily life in paradise.
We are committed to:
- Delivering accurate, timely reporting on local government, business, and community issues
- Celebrating the people, places, and traditions that define Sarasota's character
- Exploring the challenges and opportunities facing our growing community
- Providing a platform for diverse voices and perspectives
- Supporting local businesses, artists, and organizations that make Sarasota thrive
What We Cover
Local Government & Policy
City council meetings, county commission decisions, school board updates, and the policies that affect your daily life—from beach access to traffic patterns to development plans.
Community Stories
The neighbors, volunteers, entrepreneurs, and everyday heroes who make Sarasota a special place to call home.
Business & Economy
From new restaurant openings to major corporate relocations, we track the economic pulse of our community and the businesses that create jobs and character.
Arts & Culture
Sarasota's vibrant cultural scene—from the Ringling Museum to downtown galleries, from Van Wezel performances to Art Walk discoveries.
Real Estate & Development
How our community is growing and changing, from luxury waterfront estates to affordable housing initiatives.
Lifestyle & Living
The best of Sarasota living—dining, shopping, recreation, and the art of coastal sophistication.
The Future
Innovation, sustainability, and long-term planning that will shape tomorrow's Sarasota.
Our Coverage Areas
Siesta Times serves all of Sarasota County, from the barrier islands to the mainland communities:
The Islands: Siesta Key, Lido Key, St. Armands Circle, Longboat Key, and Casey Key
Downtown & Historic Areas: Central Sarasota, Rosemary District, Burns Court, Gillespie Park, and Laurel Park
Master-Planned Communities: Palmer Ranch, Lakewood Ranch, The Meadows, and their dozens of distinct neighborhoods
Coastal Communities: Venice, Osprey, Nokomis, and the waterfront areas that define our coastline
Established Neighborhoods: From Gulf Gate to Harbor Acres, Cherokee Park to University Park
Our Values
Independence
As an independent publication, we answer only to our readers and our commitment to journalistic integrity. We're not beholden to corporate interests or political agendas—just to the truth and our community.
Accuracy
We fact-check our reporting, verify our sources, and correct our mistakes promptly and transparently.
Community Focus
Every story we tell, every issue we explore, is filtered through one question: How does this matter to Sarasota residents?
Accessibility
Local news should be accessible to everyone. We write clearly, explain complex issues, and ensure our coverage reflects the full diversity of our community.
Engagement
We don't just report the news—we foster conversation, encourage civic participation, and help build connections within our community.
Meet Our Team
Sebastian Sanchez, Publisher & Editor
A longtime Sarasota resident with a passion for community journalism and the stories that connect us all. Sebastian believes that local news isn't just about informing—it's about building stronger communities.
The Siesta Team
Our growing team of writers, photographers, and contributors includes both experienced journalists and passionate community members who share our commitment to excellent local coverage.
Community Contributors
Through our "Voices" section, we regularly feature writing from Sarasota residents who share their perspectives, experiences, and insights about life in our community.
How We're Funded
Siesta Times operates as an independent publication supported directly by our readers through subscriptions and community support. This model allows us to focus on serving our audience rather than advertisers, ensuring our editorial independence and community accountability.
Join Our Community
Siesta Times is more than a news source—it's a community platform. We encourage readers to:
- Share story tips and community news
- Contribute to our "Voices" section
- Participate in community discussions
- Attend local events we cover
- Support the local businesses we feature
Connect With Us
Subscribe to get Siesta Times delivered to your inbox every Wednesday, with breaking news alerts as needed.
Follow us on social media @SiestaTimes for real-time updates and community conversations.
Contact us with story tips, feedback, or just to say hello. We love hearing from our readers.
Our Commitment to You
In a time when trust in media is often questioned, we're committed to earning and maintaining your confidence every day. We promise to:
- Report with accuracy and fairness
- Be transparent about our sources and methods
- Correct errors promptly and completely
- Listen to our community and evolve based on your needs
- Remain independent and accountable only to our readers
Siesta Times: Founded in Sarasota, for Sarasota. Because every community deserves journalism that cares about its future.
Welcome to the family.