January Year in Pictures: Pelican Press

Sarasota County Commissioners Joe Barbetta, Nora Patterson, Christine Robinson, Carolyn Mason and Jon Thaxton surprised Interim County Administrator Terry Lewis [third from left] with special recognition for his service on Jan. 11.

More than 4,000 people gathered Jan. 24 in a Dolphin Aviation hanger at Sarasota - Bradenton International airport to cheer on former Speaker of the U.S. House Newt Gingrich.

Callista Gingrich shakes hands with supporters Jan. 24 at Sarasota – Bradenton International Airport.

Sara Green, 6, Claire Maag, 6, and Aston Harris, 7, hold a prosthetic dolphin tail on Jan. 20 at Out-of-Door Academy. Dan Strzempka, the man behind the prosthetic tail, spoke with students about the tail.

Lifeguard Scott Ruberg and County Commissioners Jon Thaxton, Nora Patterson, Carolyn Mason, Christine Robinson and Joe Barbetta unveil the welcoming Siesta Public Beach sign Jan. 18 to recognize the beach’s status as No. 1 in the nation.

Susan Lomastro was named commander of the Sarasota Sailing Squadron Jan. 13. She is only the fourth woman in history to take the helm of the group.

Franki Magnotti and Liam Lizotte find Tinkerbell the alligator has a far different feel than a pet cat on Jan. 12. Jeremiah Nicol, of Sarasota Jungle Gardens, visited St. Boniface preschool to show off animals to children.

Sarasota Orchestra Harpist performs Jan. 6 for "Sounds of the Soul" at Pine Shore Presbyterian.

The Sarasota Power and Sail Squadron offers numerous courses designed to improve boater safety.

Breakfast Hostess Mary Ann Pelley brings service and smiles to those who dine at Claytons.