Ian Swaby

2 days ago | yourobserver.com | Ian Swaby

After graduating Riverview High School, 19-year-old Branson Rudeen couldn't find a field in college he felt comfortable entering. Yet his grandfather owned a clothing store and retail business, while his father Brad Rudeen entered the business of homebuilding directly out of high school and has started several small businesses. “I don't work for other people, very few of those jobs, so he's seen that growing up, and he wants to take that opportunity himself,” Brad said.

3 days ago | yourobserver.com | Ian Swaby

Although the weather was stormy the morning of June 2, with a pool closure at the Sarasota City YMCA branch, there was still a sweet spot as summer camp began. The branch launched its traditional camp and aquatics summer camps with a pancake breakfast for families, which preceded a schedule of activities revised to suit the weather. Andrew Frazier, who manages the summer camps, said it was the first time for the breakfast to kick off camp.

4 days ago | yourobserver.com | Ian Swaby

During her time at Booker High School, Marisa Von Bender was involved in numerous programs. Among them are College for Every Student, the Technology Student Association, the National Honor Society and the student government association, and she has been captain of her volleyball team and team manager for the school's wrestling program. "All I can say really, is join every program there, you never know the connections you'll make," she said.

4 days ago | yourobserver.com | Ian Swaby

Principal Erin Haughey told graduates of Riverview High School that she learned about purpose from her grandfather, a third-generation American who served in World War II. She recounted delivering meals on wheels, serving in soup kitchens, and organizing donations to the Salvation Army, stating her grandfather would even attend funerals of strangers who had no family.

1 week ago | yourobserver.com | Ian Swaby

Many people say the four years of high school will simply fly by, noted Jake Brasgalla. However, he said after walking the stage, four years, for him, felt like 10 — and that was a good thing. His advice to high school freshman is to avoid focusing on the near or distant future, and take in the smaller moments, as he has throughout his time at Sarasota High School.