What a fun evening we had celebrating the first office space of Bradenton Magazine! Violinist Francesca Jourawleff really set the night with her beautiful playing. Advertisers, Cover Artists, Writers, Sales Rep Toni Lyon, and Contributors were all there to support the magazine they helped create. My family, friends, and colleagues there to cheer me on. We are so excited to start this new chapter of community and collaboration. Our mission is high on the wall and lights up at night as a reminder and thank you for supporting local. This summer will be our fifth anniversary of the magazine, which is hard to believe, but we will be celebrating again!
Thank you sincerely for the support you have shown to me and this dream job of mine called Bradenton Magazine!
Cheers to ALL of us!
Paula L. Wright, Publisher
P.S. My mom is the beautiful lady between Toni and me, she is my biggest cheerleader! Love you MOM!
Foxxy Fine Art – Lillian Fox and Stephanie Guevara
Written by Emma Hartman
BAM!Fest 2026 Has Gone Environmental
Written by Shelly West
The Chop Shop
Written by Beth Deyo
Left Coast Sol
Written by Beth Deyo
Riverhouse
Waterfront Restaurant
Written by Kelly Stilwell How You Can Give Back
Written by Kendra Gemma
PUBLISHER + EDITOR IN CHIEF
PAULA WRIGHT
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Roxanne Clapp
COPY EDITOR + PROOFREADER
Kendra Gemma
COVER
Lillian Fox and Stephanie Guevara
ADVERTISING
Toni Lyon
Toni@BradentonMag.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS, ARTISTS, AND PHOTOGRAPHERS
940 Manatee Avenue West
Bradenton, FL 34205 www.BradentonMag.com
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Kelly Stilwell, Kendra Gemma, Liz Reed, Emma Hartman, Shelly West, David X Tejada, Amanda Gray, Beth Deyo, Masha Dolgoff
Bradenton Magazine promotes Manatee County and All Our Neighbors.
Bradenton Business Magazine
Foxxy Fine Art – Lillian Fox and Stephanie Guevara
WRITTEN BY EMMA HARTMAN
It all started with a cherry blossom mural on a little girl’s bedroom wall. Lillian Fox was just 3 years old when she helped her mom, Stephanie Guevara, transform her room into a flowering landscape—their first of many creative collaborations to come. Neither could have imagined that this playful moment between mother and child would one day bloom into a business. But bloom it did.
Today, the two run Foxxy Fine Art, a mural-focused LLC bringing bold, vibrant artwork to schools, storefronts, public spaces, churches, restaurants and private homes across the region. In the past year alone, they’ve completed more than a dozen large-scale pieces—each one a celebration of color, movement, and community.
Stephanie has always been artistic. When she left home to play collegiate soccer, she dreamed of studying fashion design, but after seeing senior exhibits in the program, she felt intimidated and uncertain. Opting for a more practical path, she followed many family members into education. Still, like many creatives, she soon realized passion doesn’t take kindly to being sidelined. “If something is within you,” she says, “I think that in order to be true to yourself, you’ll always find your way back to that—that quality that you possess, and that true love.” Eventually, her professional identity evolved: first educator, then art educator, and finally, practicing artist.
It was through her role as an art teacher that another—now seemingly prophetic—intersection of Stephanie’s and Lillian’s creative journeys occurred. Lillian was placed in Stephanie’s art class in fifth grade and the artistic guidance her mother had always provided at home began to meld with formal instruction.
Lillian later enrolled in the Visual Arts program at Manatee School for the Arts, where she also trained in dance—a discipline that continues to shape her visual style. “I paint to show how it feels to move,” she says. “Not just dance specifically, but the universal feeling of being in motion.”
After graduating from MSA, Lillian went on to pursue her BFA at the University of South Florida. With graduation just around the corner, she and Stephanie are making good on their promise to ensure Lillian is never a “starving artist.” The dream, for both Lillian and Stephanie, is to be able to wake up every day and create pieces that inspire and capture the essence of what it feels like to move through the world. Together, they’ve found their rhythm—balancing each other’s strengths and instincts in a way that allows both to shine, from color choices to brushstrokes to playlist rotations.
“Sometimes I’ll get too close while we’re working,” Stephanie laughs, “and she’ll go, ‘Girl, you’re always where I need to be!’” Other times, they pick up where the other leaves off—like when Lillian hit a wall while painting a tree and Stephanie jumped in with fresh eyes. “As an artist, you can get stuck—questioning the size, shape, angle—but with Lillian there, I don’t have to problem-solve alone. I can just turn and ask, ‘What do you think?’ and we move forward. It’s seamless.”
Of course, even a seamless process has its bumps. Like any great partnership, theirs includes the occasional disconnect, but it’s their ability to pivot and extend grace that transforms those moments into growth.
Take the Riverwalk piece for BAM!Fest. “We had brainstormed a bit, but not on the color palette,” Stephanie recalls. “I was unloading the car, setting everything up—because I’m the heavy lifter—and when I came back, Lillian had already laid down a full wash of this bold, fluorescent orange-pink. I wasn’t expecting it, but she just looked at me and said, ‘Trust me. Trust the process.’ And she nailed it. Bright, electric, fun—it captured the whole energy of the event.”
That event gave the public a front-row seat to their dynamic. Positioned along the Riverwalk, facing the bridge, the duo painted live as festivalgoers passed by. The piece began with Lillian’s surprise palette, but it evolved into something collaborative in every sense. “It was totally different from what anyone else was doing,” Stephanie says. “And as people came by, Lillian started incorporating them into the scene—quick figure sketches, done right there in the moment. That’s not easy. To stop someone for five minutes, really see them, and translate that into a painting as they walk away? That’s incredibly difficult for any artist.”
For Stephanie and Lillian, art is more than just a career path—it’s about translating their internal language and creative connection into joy for others. Their work is about literal transformation—a blank wall, a dark corner in someone’s home—but it’s the ongoing transformation of their bond echoing through their work that sets Foxxy Fine Art apart. And while the canvas may shift with each new project, one thing is certain—this mother–daughter duo is just getting started.
With her college career coming to a close at the end of the year, Lillian is already thinking about what’s next. She hopes to share her vivid oil paintings—works she’s developed and refined throughout her BFA thesis program—not just with professors and peers, but with the public. “I want our art to be viewed,” she says. “It’s not just for our pleasure. I mean, once art is made, is it really for you anymore, or is it for the viewer?”
Stephanie, too, is stepping into new terrain, preparing to showcase her landscape work at regional art festivals while continuing to grow Foxxy Fine Art alongside her daughter. Together, they’re leaning into momentum, building on their successes, and remaining open to wherever their creativity takes them.
What began as a tree mural on a bedroom wall has blossomed into something far bigger than either of them imagined—and it’s still growing.
To view more of their work or inquire about commissions, visit foxxyfineart. com, follow them on Instagram @foxxyfineart, or connect via Facebook at @foxxy.fine.art
BAM!Fest 2026 Has Gone Environmental
WRITTEN BY SHELLY WEST
Bradenton’s Art & Music Festival (BAM!Fest) returns to the Riverwalk on Saturday, March 28, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., stretching from the Green Bridge to the DeSoto Bridge. The annual celebration of local creativity will once again feature everything festivalgoers love—live bands on multiple stages, interactive art, live painting, sandcastle demonstrations, a makers’ market, and plenty of delicious food and drink.
This year, however, BAM!Fest is adding a new twist that connects art with action: an environmental humanities section called the Eco Arts Park. This immersive new area brings together local organizations that champion sustainability, conservation, and education—all while inspiring festival visitors to see the Manatee River in a new light.
Among this year’s highlights is Oyster River Ecology (ORE), a local nonprofit leading hands-on oyster reef restoration along Florida’s Suncoast. Their Oyster Habitat Restoration Program is making large-scale reef recovery a reality, with work already underway at Eileen Reef, a 10-acre site in the Manatee River—the largest active oyster reef restoration project in the region. Festival participants will be able to create Oyster Rag Pots (ORPs), an innovative and cost-effective restoration technique that provides young oysters a place to grow while helping rebuild vital marine ecosystems.
Also joining the Eco Arts Park is the Marine Exploration Center’s Mobile Aquarium, a traveling exhibit that brings Florida’s coastal habitats to life. Featuring five interactive aquariums showcasing mangroves, invertebrates, and native marine life, the exhibit offers visitors of all ages an up-close look at the delicate balance of coastal ecosystems. Expert aquarists will guide guests through topics like invasive species, pollution prevention, and water conservation, offering simple, practical ways to help protect local waterways.
In addition to these exciting new environmental exhibits, BAM!Fest continues to celebrate local creativity in all forms. This year’s winter magazine cover features a painting created live at the 2025 BAM!Fest by one of the participating artists during an eight-hour art demonstration. The piece—and others from that live event—are available for auction through December 31 at RealizeBradenton. com/BAMFest-paintings-for-sale.
Whether you come for the music, the art, or the river itself, BAM!Fest 2026 promises to be a celebration of creativity, community, and connection— both above and below the surface.
“One of the many things that makes our Bradenton Art and Music Festival, which we call BAM!Fest, special is its location along the Manatee River,” says Realize Bradenton’s Executive Director Karen Corbin. “This year, we’re bringing the river into the experience with an Eco Arts area filled with art, music, and activities that celebrate the amazing world beneath the surface of the Manatee River.”
The Chop Shop
54 Years of Family & Flavor
WRITTEN BY BETH DEYO
The Chop Shop opened its doors in West Bradenton in 1971 and was busy from the start. It wasn’t long before the original owners, Susan Higbee’s aunt and uncle, reached out to the Stivers family with a proposition.
“My parents were living in Kentucky at the time,” Susan stated. “My uncle called my dad and said, ‘Do you want to come down and help for a little while?’ and he did. They ended up asking him to stay, and that’s how we moved here.”
For decades, the shop has run as a true family business built on genuine relationships. It has become a local institution that’s known for consistency and personal service. It’s the kind of place where both the customers and the staff know each other by name.
A Family Story with Staying Power
Susan’s uncle eventually stepped away from the business, and The Chop Shop continued to thrive under the management of her aunt and the Stivers family.
But then life threw some curveballs.
In December 2019, Susan’s brother and Chop Shop co-owner Mike Stivers passed away. In 2023, the family suffered the loss of their patriarch, Melvin “Doug” Stivers.
During that time, Susan had to take the reins and learn some things on the fly. “I had to figure it out because there was no one to ask,” she explained.
Susan adapted to running the business and successfully guided it through a series of challenges that included the COVID-19 pandemic, back-to-back hurricanes that shut the business down for 40 days, and a major theft that would have knocked many people out.
Owner Susan Higbee and daughter Hayley Ambrose
Today, the business is bouncing back. “Things are definitely better than they were,” she said. “We’re focusing on quality over quantity and delivering the personal service we’ve always been known for.”
Prime Cuts and a Personal Touch
Today, Susan and her mother, Carolyn, continue to run The Chop Shop with the same heart and high standards it was founded on. Their approach is still the same: start with the best, treat people right, and never compromise.
All of their meat comes from U.S. family ranches. It’s all-natural, raised without hormones or antibiotics, and graded “Prime” — a quality level above what most grocery stores carry. “I can’t compete with price,” Susan said. “But I know our meat is not the same as everybody else’s. Ours is Prime. Most of theirs is Choice.”
The Chop Shop also carries fresh seafood, local produce, gourmet groceries, international specialties, and a carefully curated selection of wines.
Above all, it’s the experience that truly sets it apart. Walking in the door feels like taking a step back in time in the best way possible. “We’re a family-owned business, and our team is like family too,” Susan said. “I think that’s why our customers feel so at home here.”
“We also feed our employees really well,” she laughed. “We make lunch for everybody pretty much every day. So, our employees are happy when you come in.”
And that translates into excellent customer service. The staff is always happy to explain how to cook something, recommend a product, or help you figure out how much to buy.
“We’re not here just to sell you something,” Susan added. “We really want to connect and bring you into our family.”
Local Favorites That Keep Regulars Coming Back
Ask Susan about their top sellers and she barely hesitates. The Ground Chuck is ground fresh inhouse several times a day, and customers often come in for five-pound bags. Wagyu ribeyes and filet mignon are also popular among home chefs who want steakhouse quality without the restaurant price tag.
And if you haven’t tried the Butcher’s Choice Pork Chops, you’re missing the boat. “They are the most unbelievable, phenomenal, off-the-chain pork chops you will ever eat in your life,” she said. And she’s not overselling. These pork chops are fat-injected for flavor without being greasy. They’re juicy, tender, and “insanely good.”
The deli side of the store has its own loyal following. The chicken salad and ham salad are made in-house daily with fresh ingredients. They pair perfectly with The Chop Shop’s homemade coleslaw and mix of seasonal sides.
You’ll also definitely want to pick up some of their in-house seasoning blends. The Robust Ribeye blend and Chop Shop Seasoning have both developed almost a cult following. (Pro tip: They make great holiday gifts!)
David Talbot, Meat Manager
A Local Legacy
Despite hurricanes, personal loss, and the everyday challenges of running a small business, The Chop Shop has remained a constant in our community. For Susan, the business is deeply personal. It’s all about honoring her family’s legacy while staying true to the values that have kept loyal customers coming back for more than five decades.
Today, that legacy is already reaching a new generation. Susan’s daughter and younger staff are bringing fresh energy to the shop’s online presence, creating fun, lighthearted videos that introduce The Chop Shop to a wider audience. “Our first TikTok got 66,000 views,” Susan said with a laugh. “It’s crazy what takes off.”
You can visit The Chop Shop at 5906 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, FL 34209, and follow them on TikTok @thechopshopbradenton71.
Hayley Ambrose, Front-end Manager and Nick Solario, Assistant Meat Manager
Left Coast Sol
Where West Coast Meets Gulf Coast
WRITTEN BY BETH DEYO
Left Coast Sol is a small shop with a big personality. One step inside and you’ll know you’ve stumbled upon something special. A curated space that feels like an expertly styled home, it’s the perfect blend of West Coast style and Gulf Coast charm.
The mix of items is eclectic but intentional. You’ll find distinctive coastal furniture next to handmade jewelry and locally crafted candles sharing space with unique art pieces. It’s the kind of place where you can easily lose track of time, and you’ll never want to leave empty-handed. Every detail has a story behind it, and that story starts with Holly herself.
A Shop with Soul
Before opening Left Coast Sol, Holly Kim spent more than two decades designing and planning major corporate and private events for some of the world’s top brands. Her career took her from racetracks to luxury automotive events for brands like Ford, General Motors, and Mercedes-Benz. She credits those experiences with shaping her eye for detail and her love of creating spaces that feel beautiful and welcoming.
When Holly and her family moved from Southern California to Bradenton in 2019, she wasn’t sure what would come next. Then, a few estate sales, a bike ride past a small vacant space, and a spark of inspiration changed everything. What began as a small vintage venture quickly evolved into a thoughtfully curated boutique that reflects both California’s modern style and the relaxed, sun-soaked vibe of Florida’s Gulf Coast.
One Vision, Two Stores
The original Left Coast Sol is located in southwest Bradenton, near IMG Academy and Detwiler’s Farm Market. From the beginning, it drew in locals who quickly became regulars, stopping by to browse, chat, and see what new treasures Holly had brought in.
“It’s really become a community over there,” Holly says. “Most of my customers are from the surrounding neighborhoods, and they’ve supported me from the start.”
This past summer, she came across the opportunity to open a second store in downtown Bradenton on Old Main Street. While this wasn’t part of her initial plan, she quickly realized that the area’s growing mix of residences, hotels, and walkable charm offered the perfect setting for Left Coast Sol’s next chapter.
The new space carries the same warm, inviting feel as the original, but with a slightly different energy. “Downtown Bradenton has its own personality,” Holly explains. “We get a lot of visitors from the nearby hotels, but there are also so many more people moving downtown. It’s fun to be part of that growth.”
What You’ll Find Inside
Many of the pieces found at Left Coast Sol are crafted locally, including jewelry, bath and body products, and art. “Most of the art on the walls are originals by local artists,” Holly says. “Even the greeting cards and matted prints are works from people in our community.”
This focus on collaboration keeps both locations fresh and ever-changing. Every visit feels new, and every purchase supports the creativity that makes this area special.
The shop also carries a mix of modern home decor, unique furnishings, and distinctive gifts. Seasonal collections bring even more variety, with handcrafted ornaments and other holiday favorites just waiting to be discovered.
Each display is a reflection of Holly’s own style, perfectly layered with texture, color, and personality. It’s beautifully curated but doesn’t feel intimidating. Whether you’re looking for a thoughtful gift, a statement piece, or a piece of art to tie together a room, Holly is happy to help. “Sometimes, someone will bring in a vase and ask how to fill it,” she explains. “Other times, they want to decorate an entire room in their home. For me, it’s all about helping people create spaces they love.”
A Family Affair
Even with two bustling stores, family remains at the heart of everything Holly does. Her husband helps with display installations and is known to take over the music on weekends—usually an upbeat ’80s playlist that regulars have come to expect. Their daughter, now 10, has started to show her own creative streak, helping merchandise shelves and offering her opinion on new items.
“It’s definitely a family effort,” Holly says with a smile. “Everyone pitches in one way or another.”
As Left Coast Sol continues to grow, Holly stays focused on what matters most: keeping her stores authentic, community-driven, and true to the vision that started it all. “I want both spaces to be places where people connect, discover something special, and feel inspired to make it their own.”
You can visit Left Coast Sol at both of its Bradenton locations: 5338 34th St. W. (Detwiler’s Plaza) or 255 12th St. W. (Old Main St. downtown). Each offers a unique mix of style, creativity, and that unmistakable touch of “Sol.”
ONE LOCATION WITH THREE WATERFRONT DINING EXPERIENCES
REEF & GRILL
Open Daily for Lunch & Dinner
Indoor & Outdoor Seating
SNOOK DECK
Outdoor Patio Bar
Live Music on Weekends
SECOND FLOOR
Elevated Dining Experience
Friday & Saturday Evenings
One Restaurant, Three Vibes
Have you been to the Riverhouse lately?
WRITTEN BY KELLY STILWELL
My husband and I eat out quite a bit. Depending on our mood, we might go to a laid-back spot where we can wear flipflops and shorts, or we’ll get dressed up and join friends for a night out. If it’s just the two of us, more than likely, we will sit at the bar. We like having choices, and we have a plethora of great spots to dine in Bradenton.
One of the reasons we moved here is having access to those stunning water views. Speaking of which, have you been to the Riverhouse lately? Visit their website live cam to see a view of the beautiful Manatee River. Just think, you could be sitting there right now biting into a fresh grouper sandwich!
Grab a table at Reef & Grill, the upscale dining room offering indoor and outdoor seating with views of the river. Start with something from the Starters menu, like the Cast Iron Blue Crab Dip, Bahamian Conch Fritters, or Fried Green Tomatoes.
When it comes to entrées, choose the locally caught Gulf Red Grouper or Atlantic Salmon, both with your choice of sauces.
Prefer land to the sea? Order the Churrasco Skirt Steak made with the signature Riverhouse dry rub or a half rack of the Island Ribs. More in the mood for pasta? You’ll love the Lobster Mac or the Parmigiana Alfredo.
If you’re not feeling the fine-dining experience, not to worry. Pull up a barstool at Snook Deck. You can order from the same menu regardless of where you sit. I’d suggest a beer and those Reef Wings in your choice of sauce and served with Bleu cheese dip, or the Cabo fish bites.
If you’re looking for something in between fine dining and appetizers, order one of their handhelds, like the Lobster Roll. So good.
And if you’re more in the mood for greens, you have a choice of the Riverhouse Salad, the Coastal Caesar, or the Island Time. Leave off the croutons and make any of them gluten-free. Add shrimp, salmon, or chicken to any of the salads for a protein boost and even more flavor.
Love specials? Riverhouse has them all week long.
Happy Hour happens every day from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. with specials on beer, wine, and cocktails.
Every Wednesday is a celebration of wine with Wine Wednesday after 3 p.m. on the ground floor. House wines by the bottle are just $9, and other bottles of wine are 50 percent off.
The Snook Deck features live music on Friday and Saturday evenings.
On Sundays, brunch is offered from 11 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Think Oscar Eggs Benedict and Bananas Foster French Toast. Brunch also features Mimosas and Build Your Own Bloody Mary, along with other cocktails. See the menu on the Riverhouse website.
Either way, you’ll have stunning views. Get there before sunset and you might just see a dolphin and that occasional manatee. Welcome to a true Florida Gulf Coast experience!
See menus, reserve a table, order online, or ask about private events by visiting riverhousefl.com. You can also subscribe to their email list for updates on the new menu and stay in the know about Riverhouse happenings.
How You Can Give Back
Locally
WRITTEN BY KENDRA GEMMA
This is the time of year when our thoughts turn to helping others in our community. And while this is the season for giving, maybe it could become a resolution for you to continue paying it forward all year long.
What can you do to make an impact?
Our local nonprofits can always use a cash donation, but that’s not the only way to contribute to their cause. Giving of yourself goes a long way – and it could make a significant difference in someone’s life. Look into volunteer opportunities that suit your talents and the available time you have. Sharing your favorite organization’s messages to friends and neighbors or via social media posts is another invaluable way to offer your support. You never know what kind of ripple effect it could have.
Whether you’re new to the area or you’re a long-time resident, it can be overwhelming deciding where to invest your time, money, and voice. The following list is by no means exhaustive, but it can get you started on your quest to give back. We’ve arranged them in categories to pair you with your passion.
Animals
Do you love four-legged friends? You’ll find no shortage of opportunities to care for pets and even larger animals in Manatee County. Two organizations to consider supporting are Dogs Inc. and Friends of Manatee County Animal Welfare.
Palmetto-based Dogs Inc., formerly Southeastern Guide Dogs, raises and trains puppies to become guide, service, therapy, and skilled companion dogs for people throughout the country. Join the on-campus volunteer team, care for a puppy at home for a few days or longer, raise funds, or make a personal donation. Learn more at https://dogsinc.org/
An all-volunteer fundraising organization, Friends of Manatee County Animal Welfare (FoMCAW) says their “goal is to enrich the lives of the Manatee County shelter animals.” They do just that through a variety of programs that provide medical care, transportation, and food to dogs and cats in need. Shop their Amazon wish list, give a cash contribution, or attend an event. Visit their website: https://fomcaw.org
The Humane Society of Manatee County is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit animal welfare organization that was originally formed in 1971 and today is considered the lead animal welfare agency in Manatee County. Humane Society of Manatee County operates a no-kill shelter, the Second Chance Adoption Center, and a veterinary clinic / high-volume spay and neuter clinic located at 2415 14th Street W. in downtown Bradenton. Each year, the Second Chance Adoption Center rehomes more than 600 dogs and cats through our comprehensive rehabilitation and adoption program. Many of the animals that enter our adoption program are medically challenged or have behavioral challenges. Each animal in our adoption center receives the highest quality medical care and behavioral assessment and training to complete the rehabilitation process, resulting in a successful adoption into a new loving home.
In September 2015, the Humane Society of Manatee County opened a 10,000-square-foot state-of-the-art veterinary clinic and high-volume Humane Alliance Model spay and neuter clinic. Our veterinary clinic is open to the public by appointment and provides high-quality, low-to-moderate-cost veterinary care to ensure that this care is available to all cats and dogs in our community. The services available at the Humane Society of Manatee County Veterinary Clinic continue to expand to meet the growing needs of the animals in our community. In addition to the wellness services that have expanded beyond vaccines and basic exams, our clinic now offers diagnostic exams, heartworm testing and treatment, dental assessment and treatment for both dogs and cats, digital radiography (x-ray), walk-in wellness and vaccine clinics, and numerous surgical procedures. Current clinic clients can also purchase low-cost pet medications and flea, tick, and heartworm prevention online or at the clinic.
humanemanatee.org | 941-747-8808 | 2515 14th St. W. Bradenton, FL 34205
Thank you for helping save lives, four paws at a time.
Photo Essay By David X Tejada, Tejada Photography, Inc
On the stage or in a gallery, the local arts scene can’t thrive without volunteers, donors, and patrons.
If your interest lies more in the visual arts, Herrig Center for the Arts (previously known as ArtCenter Manatee) could be your perfect philanthropic match. Enroll in a class – from drawing to sculpture. Shop in the center’s LiveArtfully boutique that’s filled with primarily local artists’ work. Attend the monthly exhibitions – and post about them on your social media accounts. Volunteer as a greeter, special events committee member, or handyperson, to name a few opportunities. Become a member. Make a one-time donation or set up recurring or planned giving.
Discover all the ways you can help: https://herrigcenter.org/
Are you more of a theater buff? Lend your talents to Manatee Performing Arts Center, either as a performer or behind the scenes. Audition for a role, build sets, sew costumes, or be a part of the technical crew. For those who would prefer to interact with theatergoers, volunteer in the box office, become a greeter or an usher, or even serve as a bartender during performances. You can also choose to make a donation for a specific benefit, such as costumes.
Find out more: https://www.manateeperformingartscenter.com/
Manatee Performing Arts Center
Future of the Arts in Manatee County
WRITTEN BY SHELLY WEST
For nearly two decades, a dynamic duo has been at the heart of Manatee County’s performing arts renaissance. Together, Artistic Director Rick Kerby and CEO Janene Amick have transformed a local community theater into a regional cultural cornerstone—blending creativity and leadership to build not only stages but lasting impact. Their partnership stands as proof that when vision meets passion, art can shape an entire community.
Nearly 20 years ago, their collaboration began transforming the landscape of performing arts in Manatee County. What started as a partnership between an artistic visionary and a strategic leader has evolved into a powerhouse team at the heart of Florida Cultural Group, the nonprofit that owns and operates the Manatee Performing Arts Center.
At the time, the organization was preparing to leave its historic Riverfront Theatre and move into a new era. Rick brought decades of theatrical expertise—directing and producing award-winning shows that would define the community’s cultural identity. Janene brought the business acumen and fundraising drive to make that artistic vision a sustainable reality. The two of them built something larger than either could have achieved alone: a thriving cultural organization that blends artistry, education, and community connection.
Rick and Janene are two halves of a perfectly balanced creative equation. Rick’s direction and storytelling breathe life into productions that engage, educate, and entertain. Janene’s leadership ensures each of those performances aligns with Florida Cultural Group’s mission: to create, entertain, and strengthen an artistic, creative, curious, and thriving community by bringing people together.
“Our shared goal was simple yet deeply rooted—to create a place where people could come together through the arts,” Janene says. “What started as a commitment to great theater has evolved into a broader mission embracing education, access, and opportunity for all ages.”
CEO Janene Amick
Artistic Director Rick Kerby
“Janene and I bring different strengths to the table, and that’s what makes it work,” Rick adds. “She has deep community roots and a remarkable ability to connect people to our mission. My experience comes from a lifetime in live entertainment, so together we blend creative vision with practical leadership.”
Their shared understanding is simple but profound: art inspires, but leadership sustains. Rick gives the community a reason to gather—Janene makes sure there’s a place for them to do it.
When the two first began working together, productions were still staged at the old Riverfront Theatre. But a bigger dream was already forming: a state-of-the-art performing arts center that would anchor the community for generations. Through years of determination, advocacy, and a successful $22 million capital campaign, the Manatee Performing Arts Center opened its doors in 2013. Today, it welcomes over 38,000 patrons each year and generates over $4 million in local economic impact.
“Our first production in the new building—Miss Saigon—was a huge leap of faith,” Rick recalls. “We were rehearsing in a space that wasn’t even ready for audiences yet, but everything came together beautifully. It was the moment we knew the Manatee Performing Arts Center could live up to its potential.”
And they’re not done yet. Their next ambitious project—Sara’s Studios—will extend that legacy into the future. This four-story, 31,000-square-foot education and rehearsal complex is designed to expand the organization’s reach and ensure that creativity thrives year-round.
Open seven days a week, the facility will host lessons, youth programs, rehearsals, and community events—cementing Florida Cultural Group’s role as the region’s cultural hub.
“Sara’s Studios was inspired by a simple but powerful idea—that creativity deserves space to grow,” Janene explains. “It will do more than train artists; it will strengthen community, foster inclusion, and open doors for people of all ages to explore their creativity.”
Sara’s Studios at a Glance
1st Floor: Rehearsal and practice studios for students and performers.
2nd Floor: Administrative offices and multipurpose classroom space.
3rd Floor: Audio/visual learning rooms and recording studios.
4th Floor: Orchestra rehearsal hall, music library, and offices.
“As proud as I am of our current space, we’ve lost the opportunity to expand our education department,” Rick says. “It will be wonderful to have a dedicated new building to make sure the next generation can grow and learn. It’s incredible to live in a community that supports the arts and its future.”
Rick continues to bring artistry and heart to the stage through a diverse slate of productions: Disney’s Frozen: The Broadway Musical, DraMature’s Holiday Production, and a new interactive murder mystery staged at the Florida Railroad Museum.
“We’ve continued to raise the bar technically and artistically,” Rick says. “Our donors and community partners believe in the power of live theatre to change lives, and that support keeps our facility one of the most advanced in the region.”
“What excites me most about directing shows like Frozen or our new interactive mystery is the people,” he adds. “It’s inspiring to work with volunteers and performers who give so much of their time and talent to create something special for the community.”
As CEO and Chief Fundraising Officer, Janene Amick is known affectionately as Florida Cultural Group’s “Chief Cheerleader.” Her leadership is fueled by enthusiasm, gratitude, and a genuine love for connecting people to the mission. “Being the Chief Cheerleader means leading with optimism and gratitude,” she says. “When people know their contributions matter, they give their best selves to the work—and that energy is contagious.”
She believes fundraising isn’t about transactions—it’s about relationships. Her approach has inspired trust among donors, volunteers, and staff, fueling major initiatives like the Sara’s Studios Capital Campaign, which has already attracted multimillion-dollar community support.
“The most rewarding moments are when donors see the impact of their generosity firsthand,” Janene adds. “It’s in those moments that the arts become personal.”
After two decades, Rick and Janene’s partnership continues to evolve—but its foundation remains the same: a shared belief that art changes lives.
“Without question, I’m most proud of the people,” Janene reflects. “Over the years, we’ve built more than new facilities; we’ve built a community bound by creativity, compassion, and shared purpose.”
“Looking ahead, I hope we’ll see even more collaboration among local arts organizations,” Rick says. “When we share resources and work together, everyone benefits.”
Their next chapter will focus on expanding access to arts education, nurturing new talent, and reimagining how the community experiences performance.
The Pops Orchestra
Since it was founded in 1975, The Pops Orchestra of Bradenton and Sarasota has been the Cultural Coast’s exclusive Pops orchestra, delighting audiences of all ages with spectacular, critically acclaimed performances. Under the direction of Dr. Robyn Bell, this 65-piece ensemble showcases the region’s finest professional musicians, community music makers, music educators, and high school and college music students reflecting the diversity of its audience and patrons. Nationally recognized guest artists bring added energy and excitement, making each performance unforgettable for both musicians and audiences. The annual concert season blends beloved favorites and fresh sounds of music you love from multiple musical genres such as patriotic and Broadway hits to jazz, big band, jukebox, Motown, Hollywood, and holiday classics — creating concerts that inspire and entertain. In addition, the Pops Orchestra performs community concerts to honor veterans, welcome international sporting events, and feature outstanding local young musicians through its annual summer camp. The Pops partners with other area arts organizations, providing concerts for special occasions in the Suncoast region. Whether you’re a year-round resident, a winter “snowbird,” or visiting the Suncoast, The Pops Orchestra offers an unforgettable cultural experience. Join us for a performance that’s more than a concert — it’s a celebration of music, community, and joy.
Get your tickets today!
Urbanite Theatre
Urbanite Theatre, located in downtown Sarasota, Florida, has become a cornerstone of contemporary theatre in the region since its founding in 2015. Operating in an intimate, 65-seat black-box space, Urbanite is dedicated to producing bold, thought-provoking new works that challenge perspectives and inspire dialogue. The company champions emerging and underrepresented voices, often premiering new plays and transforming its venue with inventive, immersive staging. Known for its visceral storytelling and commitment to artistic excellence, Urbanite continues to push the boundaries of what theatre can be — intimate, immediate, and unapologetically human.
Urbanite’s 2025–2026 Season (Season 12) features four powerful productions that embody its fearless spirit.
Monsters of the American Cinema – October 31 – December 7, 2025: a haunting and tender exploration of fatherhood, identity, and legacy.
Job – January 9 – February 15, 2026: a tightly wound psychological thriller about work, technology, and moral obligation.
The Apiary – March 20 – April 19, 2026: a futuristic comedy examining scientific ethics, ambition, and discovery.
Who Is Eartha Mae? – May 29 – June 21, 2026: play with music, uncovering the life and spirit of Eartha Kitt through story and song.
For tickets and more information, visit urbanitetheatre.com or 941.321.1397
It's January 2020. Jane has been placed on leave from her Big Tech job after a viral workplace incident. She's hell-bent on returning, but first, her assigned therapist, Loyd, needs to authorize it. Loyd suspects her work might be doing more harm than good. A tightly wound psychological thriller, JOB zooms in on two careerists of different
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe
Step inside Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe in Sarasota, and you’ll feel it instantly: the crackle of energy, the rhythm of the music, the pulse of the stories that demand to be told. Just a short drive from Bradenton, a celebration of culture, history, and sheer talent is taking center stage at WBTT, and it has been since founder and artistic director Nate Jacobs first gathered a group of dreamers in 1999.
WBTT productions are anything but ordinary. Onstage, the range is electric with Broadway classics infused with new life, soul revues that lift the roof, and original works that speak to resilience. The troupe’s performers deliver with passion, their voices filling the intimate space and pulling audiences to the edge of their seats. Every show feels like an invitation to not only watch but experience.
But WBTT’s impact extends beyond the stage. Through mentorship and outreach, the company nurtures young artists, giving them not only a platform but a future.
WBTT offers the perfect evening close to home while transporting you to another world, and with a full season from October to May and special summer events, there’s always a reason to stop by Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe.
See what’s going on at www.westcoastblacktheatre.org.
Paradise Blue
Learning doesn’t always take place in a school classroom. You can help local students through several nonprofit organizations, including Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County and Take Stock in Children of Manatee County.
At Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County, children of all ages may receive subject-specific tutoring and homework assistance. Teens can also participate in career preparedness activities, and college and career advisors speak to them, as well as younger kids. You can volunteer in these capacities or help with other after-school activities, like sports, fine arts, and cooking.
Learn more at http://www.bgcmanatee.org/
Take Stock in Children of Manatee County’s mission is “to create pathways to post-secondary education for students who face economic and systemic barriers.” The organization does this by providing scholarships, support services, and mentorship. Mentors are screened, trained, and then matched with a scholar to offer one-on-one guidance and encouragement.
If you’re interested in applying to be a mentor, visit http://www.takestockmanatee.org/mentors
Both organizations gladly accept one-time and monthly donations.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County: Great Futures Start Here
Every day, hundreds of young people in Manatee County walk through the doors of a Boys & Girls Club—and step into a world of possibility. Inside, they find caring mentors, a safe space to belong, and programs that empower them to reach their full potential. From academic support and leadership development to health, arts, and career readiness, Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County gives kids and teens the tools to get Future Ready.
But great futures don’t just happen. They’re built—one child, one day, one opportunity at a time. When you give to Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County, you are investing in the next generation of leaders, innovators, and community builders. Your support helps ensure that every young person, no matter their circumstances, has access to the guidance, resources, and encouragement they need to thrive.
In a world filled with challenges, the Club remains a constant place where kids feel seen, valued, and inspired to achieve. Together, we can open more doors, spark more dreams, and create brighter tomorrows for all.
To learn more or make a gift visit www.bgcmanatee.org.
Take Stock in Children of Manatee County
Imagine the impact of helping a Manatee County student become the first in their family to graduate from college.
At Take Stock in Children of Manatee County, we believe education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty—and with your support, that belief becomes reality.
Take Stock in Children Manatee provides mentorship, college readiness, and scholarships to local students who show promise but face financial hardship. Since 1996, we’ve awarded more than 1,100 scholarships, helping students achieve dreams once thought out of reach. Our graduates are living proof that your investment in education pays lifelong dividends—for them, their families, and our community.
This holiday season, every dollar you give transforms a life. Your support helps cover essential needs—from school supplies and technology to tuition and housing—ensuring students have what they need to succeed in college and beyond.
As you make your holiday list, consider a gift that lasts beyond the season—a donation that opens doors to education, stability, and opportunity.
Scan the QR code to donate today and help a student achieve their dream of college graduation. Together, we can make this the season for giving—and for changing lives.
Visit https://manateetakestock.org/ or contact Dr. Michael Higley, Director of Operations at Michael@TakeStockManatee.org
Empowering Students. Transforming Futures.
A New Way to Give: The Giving Gallery Connects Donors and Community Change
As the end of the year approaches, a season when generosity takes center stage, Manatee Community Foundation (MCF) has unveiled a fresh way to make a lasting local impact: The Giving Gallery.
This new online space, where generosity meets opportunity, invites donors to explore a curated collection of innovative projects led by trusted nonprofit partners across Manatee County. From advancing education and health to uplifting families and preserving culture, The Giving Gallery highlights initiatives that have been carefully reviewed through MCF’s grantmaking process or selected by invitation for their potential to create measurable, meaningful change.
“The Giving Gallery is about more than responding to needs; it’s about investing in innovation and aligning missions to create lasting change,” said Yolanda Mancha, MCF’s Vice President of Philanthropy. “Each request represents a forward-thinking idea to improve life in Manatee County, and when donors invest, they become true partners in that work.”
Participating organizations include Easterseals Southwest Florida, Hope Family Services, UnidosNow, Pace Center for Girls, Project Light of Manatee, and several others-each reflecting the strength and diversity of the region’s nonprofit community.
Whether you’re a longtime philanthropist or looking for a meaningful way to give back before year’s end, The Giving Gallery offers a trusted avenue to make your gift count where it matters most, right here at home.
Explore current opportunities at www.manateecf.org or contact MCF at philanthropy@manateecf.org.
Casey Cares Foundation Celebrates 25 Years of Creating Joy for Critically Ill Children
The Casey Cares Foundation proudly celebrates 25 years of bringing comfort, connection, and joyful memories to critically ill children and their families. Since its founding in 2000, the organization has delivered more than 259,000 uplifting activities to nearly half a million participants across eight states.
Founded by Casey Baynes with just a $2,500 loan and a vision to fill a vital gap in pediatric care, Casey Cares began by serving five families. By the end of 2004, the organization had supported more than 1,500 individuals in a single year—a testament to the growing need and impact of its programs.
From the beginning, Casey Cares has focused on creating moments that matter—offering tickets to sporting events, concerts, and museums; delivering surprise birthday celebrations; hosting group parties; and donating cozy pajamas to hospitals through its popular Kami’s Jammies program.
One of the most defining moments in the foundation’s history came in 2007, when a devastating six-alarm fire destroyed its headquarters. Despite the loss, the team—fueled by compassion and determination—continued operations from a parking lot and their own homes. Not a single family request went unanswered during that difficult time.
In the years since, Casey Cares has expanded both its programs and its reach. New initiatives like Hammy’s Heart, which provides grocery assistance in memory of a Casey Cares child, and Caring Connections, a program bringing families together for group outings, have deepened the foundation’s impact. With regional growth into Ohio in 2017 and Florida in 2019, Casey Cares now serves families across eight states.
“Celebrating 25 years as a nonprofit is a remarkable milestone for Casey Cares,” said Casey Baynes, Founder and Executive Director. “What began as a small initiative in Baltimore has grown into a lifeline for thousands of critically ill children. Our journey has been fueled by love, resilience, and the belief that even the smallest moments can create lasting memories. We’re incredibly grateful to the families, volunteers, donors, and supporters who’ve made this milestone possible—and we’re excited for what’s to come.”
From movie nights to ball games, birthday surprises to comfort packages, Casey Cares continues to spread smiles and create meaningful moments for families when they need them most.
Join us in celebrating 25 years of smiles, strength, and unforgettable memories. Together, we can make every moment count.
Food insecurity and homelessness affect many of our area’s most vulnerable residents. Fortunately, we have charities dedicated to these challenges.
Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee offers the home-delivered meals program its best known for and so much more, from an adult day center to Friendship Dining Centers for people 60 years old and up. The Food Bank of Manatee is also part of Meals on Wheels. Volunteers are needed on a regular basis for each of those programs, and you can also inquire about group volunteer opportunities. The organization also accepts monetary donations, food, and other items.
Read more about Meals on Wheels PLUS: https://mealsonwheelsplus.org/
Turning Points is dedicated to preventing and reducing homelessness in Manatee County. Do you have a skill that would help their clients? You can sign up to volunteer as a barber/hairstylist, bike repairer, or healthcare professional. The organization also has opportunities that require less training, such as mailroom sorters and front desk assistant. Besides financial gifts, Turning Points appreciates group donations of personal care products, sneakers, and laundry detergent.
Get more information at https://tpmanatee.org/
Explore these opportunities – and others in Manatee County – this season. Giving back, no matter how, will improve the lives of others, strengthen our community, and make you feel good, too. It’s a win-win-win.
Your Gift Helps Your Neighbors Access Vital Services & Lasting Stability
Provides free, quality medical and dental care for uninsured adults ages 18–64. From checkups and prescriptions to cleanings and dentures, your support gives neighbors access to compassionate care and a healthier future.
Your donation helps families and individuals avoid eviction by providing rent and utility assistance, along with budgeting and financial counseling for lasting stability.
Connects individuals and families to ser vices like affordable housing, mental health support, job opportunities, and Social Security benefits. Resource Navigators walk beside each client on their path to independence.
Offers hope and practical support for those experiencing homelessness providing showers, clothing, mail ser vice, computer access, and employment help, all delivered with dignity and care.
The “PLUS” is because we are so much more than meals!
While initially founded in 1972, with the purpose of providing nutritious meals to the elderly and disabled residents of Manatee County, Meals on Wheels of Manatee, Inc. became so much more. The organization grew over the years in response to community needs, and the “PLUS” was eventually added to the name as a way of representing the many other services offered.
The Food Bank of Manatee is the only food bank based in Manatee County and the largest hunger relief organization in our community, serving 95+ food pantries and partners.
As an independent food bank, The Food Bank of Manatee relies 100% on the support of the community to meet the rising needs.
Show your support at www.MealsOnWheelsPLUS.org
Think of Meals on Wheels PLUS in terms of a gigantic umbrella. Underneath the umbrella are all the PLUS programs including:
Home-delivered Meals The Food Bank of Manatee Daybreak Adult Day Center Friendship Dining Centers
WRITTEN BY AMANDA GRAY
Bradenton’s Best-Kept Secrets Are Closer Than You Think
Beyond the beaches and big attractions, Bradenton has a personality all its own. It’s in the family-run restaurants where the staff remembers your order, the colorful shops that celebrate local artists, and the parks and preserves where you can trade the crowds for calm.
Here are a few favorite hidden gems—places that locals love and visitors are always glad to find—waiting for you to explore this season. This guide will help you experience the best Bradenton has to offer while supporting small businesses during the holidays. It doesn’t get better than that.
The Food
Cottonmouth Southern Soul Kitchen 1114 12th Street W, Bradenton
Why it’s special:
Housed in a colorful converted bungalow in Bradenton’s Village of the Arts, this spot is part restaurant, part front-porch concert—where you can enjoy Southern food, Americana, and blues music.
Don’t miss:
The fried green tomatoes—cooked to perfection, they taste like someone’s grandma made them.
Vibe:
Unpolished charm meets genuine soul. Come for the food, stay for the music.
Hamlet’s Eatery 821 Apricot Ave, Sarasota (in the courtyard of The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime)
Why it’s special:
Mean Deans Local Kitchen 6059 26th St W,
Why it’s special:
Bradenton
Tucked in an unassuming plaza off 26th Street, Mean Deans Local Kitchen has a cozy, lived-in feel.
What to try:
Don’t skip the key lime pie—it’s earned a quiet cult following among regulars.
Vibe:
Scratch-made dishes, comfortable furnishings, and a relaxed but elevated approach. Live music nights and weekly trivia add to the community feel.
Nestled within an arts-filled courtyard, this creative food truck blends inventive comfort cuisine with a fun, relaxed setting.
What to try:
The Jackfruit BBQ Tacos—tender, smoky jackfruit piled into warm tortillas with house-made slaw and tangy barbecue sauce. They’re a favorite for both vegans and meat-eaters alike.
Vibe:
A casual, dog-friendly courtyard with a community feel. Pups, great food, and good company make Hamlet’s worth the stop.
The Shops
The Blue Flamingo 4229 Cortez Road West, Bradenton
Why it’s special:
Locally owned and proudly eclectic, The Blue Flamingo blends art gallery, home-décor boutique, and gift shop into one colorful space.
Don’t miss:
The driftwood art and handmade ceramics, both sourced from Florida artisans. Every piece comes with a story— perfect for anyone who loves décor that reflects where it came from.
Vibe:
A mix of beach cottage and artist studio—ideal for discovering something you won’t find in a chain store.
The Cat’s Meow: A Vintage Marketplace 4307 26th St W, Bradenton
Why it’s special:
Set inside a retro-roller-rink-turned-marketplace, The Cat’s Meow gathers more than 40 vendors under one roof—all offering carefully curated vintage finds. The place has a treasure-hunting energy that keeps shoppers coming back.
Don’t miss:
Wander the back rows for hidden gems like a vintage teak coffee table or original 1960s audio gear.
Vibe:
Bright-industrial meets retro-charm—high ceilings, art prints, and a “stop-in-for-a-find” atmosphere.
Left Coast Sol 5338 34th St W, Bradenton and 255 12th St W, Bradenton
Why it’s special:
Left Coast Sol embodies Gulf Coast charm, offering a boutique experience that feels like stepping into a breezy coastal home.
Don’t miss:
Look for a handcrafted coastal-inspired mirror or statement piece by a local artisan—something stylish and distinctly Bradenton.
Vibe:
Bright wood floors, light coastal accents, and a blend of sophistication and laid-back ease.
The Outdoors
Lake Manatee State Park
20007 State Road 64 E, Bradenton
8 a.m.–sundown daily | $5 per vehicle
Why it’s special:
Just 15 miles east of Bradenton, this state park offers a rare glimpse of “real Florida”—pine flatwoods, hardwood forests, and freshwater lake views.
Highlight experience:
Hike one of the nature trails or bring a picnic to the lakeside pavilion.
Vibe:
Rustic and scenic—perfect for pressing pause and opting out of a beach day.
Palma Sola Botanical Park
9800 17th Ave NW, Bradenton
8 a.m.–sunset daily | Free
Why it’s special:
A 10-acre garden oasis in northwest Bradenton, home to rare palms, exotic fruit trees, a butterfly garden, and three serene lakes.
Highlight experience:
Wander the Rare Fruit Trail, a winding path through mango, guava, and starfruit trees—an unexpectedly exotic stroll where you can spot fruit ripening in the Florida sun and catch its sweet scent on a breezy day.
Vibe:
Peaceful, leafy, and full of quiet discoveries.
Johnson Preserve at Braden River
9906 Clubhouse Dr, Bradenton
Open sunrise to sunset | Free
Why it’s special:
Johnson Preserve protects one of the last remaining tracts of long-leaf pine woods and oak hammocks in a rapidly developing part of Manatee County. With its quiet trails and limited traffic, you’ll often find yourself alone with the sounds of nature.
Highlight experience:
Follow the short boardwalks and sandy shell trails early in the morning—you might spot a gopher tortoise or two.
Vibe:
Quiet, rugged, and unassuming—the kind of place you stumble upon and then keep to yourself.
And Much More!
Dr. Mannon takes a truly personalized approach to wellness - because she knows that health is not a one-size-fits-all, and neither is the care you deserve.
THE OLD SORREL WEED HOUSE
WRITTEN BY LIZ REED
If you read the last issue, then you know my daughter and I had gone on a road trip to Savannah, Georgia. While there, we stayed at the Marshall House, which had a lot of activity of its own as you read about in the last issue.
We loved to take walks at night after it cooled down. We would go through the area parks and stop at some of the historical homes and sites. I always carry a K2 Meter to see if we pick up activity. We did pick up some activity by the Jewish burial grounds in one square.
But, I have to say that the Old Sorrel Weed House blew us away not once, but twice. When we stopped at a place by the front of the house, my daughter pulled up the history and read out loud about it off her phone. On this particular time, my K2 meter was lighting up to red, which means a strong direct “yes” answer to all the history she was reading online. The phone can sometimes interfere with the K2 meters, so we keep them separated.
The Sorrel Weed House was built in the 1830s for Francis Sorrel, a wealthy merchant, and his family. The family lived there for over twenty years. In the 1850s, Henry D. Weed bought the home from Francis Sorrel and lived there until 1914. After that, the house sat empty until 1940.
The Sorrel Weed house was the boyhood home of Brigadier General Moxley Sorrel. He fought for the Confederate Army. Robert E. Lee visited the home in 1861 and 1862, and in 1870s shortly before his death. Francis and Robert had been friends since the 1830s.
The tragic history of the house is that Francis’s second wife, Matilda, died by suicide. The story goes that Matilda caught her husband having an affair with one of the slaves, went up to the second story balcony and jumped, landing in the courtyard headfirst onto the stone yard. A few days later, a group of masked men arrived and hung the slave woman. Francis Sorrel was one of the men who stood and watched the men hang his slave.
While standing outside, we started asking questions and found out we were talking with Molly, the slave. She was letting us know that she felt guilty for what happened. We explained to her that it wasn’t her fault, that she was being taken advantage of. She seemed to take that answer as she left us and answered no more questions.
Now, we took two trips to Savannah and, on the second trip, we decided to take a tour of the Sorrel Weed house. A ghost tour with a little investigation was included. Oh, boy, was I excited and ready for this. Of course, we came with whatever equipment we could fit in my daughter’s backpack. We walked into this house thinking we were ready.
We had a wonderful tour guide who gave us history and ghost stories along the way. When we got to the area that they say Matilda jumped from above, he said that people have claimed to see Matilda falling to her death. Some of our equipment went off. We lingered behind a little and found nothing that would set the equipment off. My daughter then held some equipment higher up in the air by the window, and the equipment went off. There was a chair by the window where Matilda is seen falling that puts off some energy also.
Our next stop was the basement where the kitchen was. It was cooler down there, so it didn’t heat up the upper part of house in the hot Savannah days. We were ready for the basement as we had heard some stories about activity down there.
The tour guide told us how the kitchen was run. He then told us his ghost story. It seems he was covering a private investigation, and the people had seen someone walking past the window. The guide had seen it on the camera and ran down to the group and asked them if they saw that. They answered “yes” and said they saw someone walked past the window. The guide explained to them that it was impossible to see the whole body as you walked by the window outside. You would only see the bottom of the legs of someone walking by. They were in the basement, not at street level. We then moved on into the area where my daughter, Jamie, and I were dying to get into.
The other side of the basement was used as a surgical room by Moxley Sorrel. Once he left the army, he decided to use his medical talents and perform surgeries on soldiers and others. They had his table and, in some cases, they had some of his surgical tools and bullets that he removed from soldiers, along with an old wicker wheelchair. Rumor has it moving on its own. However, we didn’t experience that. After he told us the stories of this area, we were allowed to do a little investigating. We headed to the equipment and table. As we got to the table, my daughter said “ Wow! Well, here we go” Her K2 meter had hit red and was answering her questions. I went over to the other case of tools and had the same thing happen. We could have stayed there all night, but we had one more stop left on the tour: the slave quarters where Molly was supposed to have been hung.
We entered the slave quarters, which was a very tiny area. It had an upstairs that was the sleeping quarters and supposed to be the area where Molly was hung from the rafters. It, too, was very small and had a bedroom off to the side that a single bed and dresser fit in. The guide was telling us that we would be the first tour to be told this. They had just that day found out the last name of Molly. Her full name was Molly Speed. Now to a lot that doesn’t mean too much, but to my daughter and me, it was mind blowing. My son from my first marriage had the last name of Speed and that side of the family were known to be slave owners with ties to Thomas Jefferson. Unfortunately, my son has passed away, so the story continues with my daughter and me to see if we can find any connection between the two. We need to go back and do a private night time investigation.
Who knows? I may end up with a third part to this adventure!
LIZ
REED, CO-FOUNDER OF PSOBFL AUTHOR OF HAUNTED MANATEE COUNTY
THE CEPHALOPOD’S SYLLABUS: Venoms and Toxins
WRITTEN BY MASHA DOLGOFF
University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee STEM major
Here in Southwest Florida, we’re lucky enough to have vibrant sea-life that includes a couple species of octopuses. These fascinating creatures, belonging to the animal class Cephalapoda, are known for their remarkable intelligence. Their ability to constantly expand their knowledge of their environment has inspired this column.
For the winter session, I wanted to write about the focus of my current research internship at the Roskamp Institute in Sarasota. The institute specializes in a wide variety of neurological topics, including traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer’s, and posttraumatic stress disorder. One of its research areas is uniquely regional: figuring out if there is a connection between the extent to which patients are affected by the Red Tide, which produces a neurotoxin, and key genetic factors. This is the team I’m currently working with under research scientist Dr. Laila Abdullah, and it has caused me to reflect on the way Florida’s ecology has impacted my own life.
As a relative newcomer to Florida who has lived here for close to two years, my first impression of the state was heavily impacted by Hurricanes Milton and Helene. Suddenly, the subtropical flair of my surroundings, which seemed like such a colorful novelty compared to my hometown of Chicagoland, took on the look of untamable wilderness. To observe the house where I lived transformed overnight by an unstoppable motion of the sea was a shock. As we transition to a mild Florida winter from an autumn that seems like it’s been calmer so far (knock on wood), I’ve had more time to think about how the environment affects us.
How do we continue to acknowledge the fragility of nature when it presents itself as a temporary antagonist in our lives?
Perhaps we should consider as a microcosm a feature of Florida’s ecosystem that many people may have a natural fear of, especially those less familiar with them—snakes. My professor of genetics at the University of South Florida, Dr. Ryan McCleary, grew up across the street from a herpetologist. That’s where his love of this curious reptile originated, and he went on to complete his PhD on the evolution of venom in the Florida cottonmouth.
“There is a debate whether it’s a natural fear or a learned fear. Probably deep in our ancestry, there is a reason for primates to be afraid of snakes, especially large snakes,” he said in an interview I conducted with him in October. “But nowadays, with humans, it’s not so much a natural thing.”
Speaking of his childhood growing up just a few houses away from the herpetologist, “He had frogs and turtles and snakes and lizards and all sorts of stuff and we just thought that was the coolest. So, kind of what the neighborhood kids did—instead of, you know we did our fair share of baseball in the summer—but mostly we went down to the pond in the river and caught turtles and snakes,” McCleary said.
Even those without such a childhood connection may be able to gain an appreciation for snakes through the lens of biodiversity. To understand why protecting these rapid serpentine locomotors might be in our own self-interest, we must first consider why they produce neurotoxins in the first place.
“A lot of people think that the point of venom is to kill prey, and it’s really not. The point is to stop it so you can eat it,” McCleary said. “But the other thing is that if you look at the nerve synapse, from one nerve to the next, or from a nerve to a muscle, there’s all these different parts that have to work just right and all you have to do is mess up one of them.”
However, just like too much of anything can be poisonous, certain poisons can be strategically engineered to be healing. Originally isolated from Brazilian pit viper venom, the biomolecule bradykinin potentiating peptide (BPP) contributes to prey losing its consciousness, but it also helped design drugs to treat hypertension in humans. “You might have heard of a group of pharmaceuticals called ACE inhibitors,” McCleary said. “A lot of people take them as blood pressure medications. Those were developed from snake venom.”
Pictured: Masha Dolgoff in lab.
That’s precisely why protecting biodiversity is so important. We don’t know what kind of potentially life-saving, undiscovered medicines might be hiding even within the most threatening characteristics of our fellow earth dwellers.
On the other hand is Brevetoxin, the neurotoxin produced by the Red Tide organism Karenia brevis, the dispersal of which occurs across much broader channels in the ecosystem than those to which snake venom is confined to. It both aerosolizes into the air and is passed down through the food chain, disrupting electrical signaling in the cells of many different organisms, from birds to fish to humans.
At the Roskamp Institute, my direct supervisor, Gregory Aldrich, was the lead author on a scientific study published last year examining the possible connection between exposure to Brevetoxin and indicators of cognition in people with a certain genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s and other neurological disorders. The genetic risk factor in question is a form of the APOE gene; the gene helps build proteins that deliver specific nutrients to the brain. His research found that the risk factor was associated with increased odds of self-reported fatigue and memory problems following exposure to Brevetoxin.
With that in mind, we have one more concern to add to the long list of reasons why we should figure out what causes the Red Tide and how to stop it. The Red Tide is a type of Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB), which, generally speaking, starts because of an excess of nutrients in the water, usually driven by human activities such as fertilizer runoff and wastewater leaks. Algae feed on the nutrients, after which they produce toxins that cause them to outcompete other sea-life, allowing them to basically hog all the oxygen in the water. Warming oceans also help algae proliferate compared to many other species— the same warming oceans that increase chances of hurricanes forming.
However, when I spoke to Karen Atwood, a biology instructor at my university who did her Master’s on Brevetoxin in seabirds of southwest Florida, she told me that blooms of K. brevis cannot be definitively traced to an excess of nutrients, as they start 10 to 50 miles offshore in oligotrophic water, or water that is low in nutrients. “And the million-dollar question is, why do they start? We don’t know quite yet,” she said.
Water that is warmer than usual can certainly expand into areas where HABs, including K. brevis, can dwell once they start, but the initiation of the Red Tide remains somewhat of a mystery. There are a few current theories; the leading one of which suggests that thermal and salinity fronts can carry K. brevis from oligotrophic waters to areas where it can explode, but this is just one supported part to an incomplete story.
From fanged megafauna that can be more useful than threatening in deliberately organized circumstances, to a tiny microorganism that has disproportionately profound effects, it seems we still have much to understand and discover in the curiosities, thrills, and dangers provided to us by the special habitat we live in.
Quarterly Catch-Up
Winter’s here on the Suncoast, and there’s plenty happening around the Bradenton area. From new community projects and local art events to fresh ideas taking root along the river and coast, it’s been a busy, inspiring season. Here’s a look at what’s been blooming—even as the temperatures
Sara’s Studios Breaks Ground in Bradenton
In August 2025, Florida Cultural Group celebrated the groundbreaking of Sara’s Studios, a 31,000-square-foot, four-story education and rehearsal facility in downtown Bradenton. The new complex will include rehearsal studios, classrooms, office space, and a large orchestra rehearsal hall, and will become the permanent home of The Pops Orches-
Backed by major philanthropic gifts—including support from the Florida District Kiwanis—and recent tourist-development tax funding, Sara’s Studios marks the next chapter in the organization’s growth as a regional cultural hub. Construction is now underway, with an expected opening in summer 2026.
Mote SEA Opens at UTC
The long-awaited Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA) officially opened to the public on October 8 at University Town Center, right next to PopStroke and Dillard’s at Nathan Benderson Park. The striking three-story facility was built on the site of a former pond and now anchors the area as a destination for discovery, education, and family fun.
Inside, visitors can explore 28 immersive exhibits featuring hundreds of marine animals from Florida’s coastal waters to the Indo-Pacific. Highlights include a new penguin exhibit, a shark habitat with an observation tube, and seven interactive touch tanks, including Shark and Pacific Invertebrate encounters.
Beyond being a world-class aquarium, Mote SEA is a hub for learning. The first floor houses three STEM classrooms for K–12 students and five research labs for college programs and workforce development.
Mote SEA is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering a hands-on experience where curiosity meets conservation.
Downtown Bradenton Market Returns
The Bradenton Public Market is back for the 2025–2026 season, bringing fresh energy to Old Main Street every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. through May. Stroll the open-air market and enjoy local produce, handmade art, and live music from local artists while kids take part in free family activities.
It’s the perfect Saturday outing—and a great way to support local growers, makers, and downtown businesses. Don’t forget to stop by nearby cafés, restaurants, and shops while you’re there to make a full day of it in the heart of Bradenton.
Mixon in Bloom
In November, Manatee County hosted “Mixon in Bloom,” a community celebration marking the county’s official purchase of the historic Mixon Fruit Farms property in Bradenton. The event featured a symbolic “Passing of the Key” ceremony, followed by a community planting and beautification project where volunteers, local organizations, and county staff helped landscape and refresh the 39-acre site. The $13.5 million purchase ensures the beloved landmark will continue serving as a public gathering place for weddings, markets, and community events, with future plans including expanded programming and potential mobile library services.
Manatee County Stand Down
On November 1, the 27th Annual Manatee County Stand Down took place at the Manatee County Fairgrounds in Palmetto, offering essential services and support to local veterans in need. Hosted by Manatee County and Turning Points, the event brought together over 50 agencies providing access to healthcare, social services, veterans benefits, and employment resources. Highlights included the Veterans Amnesty Court, free medical and dental screenings, haircuts, meals, and help with identification and transportation—all part of a community effort to honor and uplift those who have served.
Bradenton Kiwanis Annual Veteran Appreciation
On November 4, the Bradenton Kiwanis Club hosted its annual Veterans Appreciation Luncheon at the Manatee Performing Arts Center, honoring local veterans for their service and dedication. The event featured keynote speaker Naomi Copeland from Southwest Florida Honor Flight and brought together community leaders, service members, and residents in a heartfelt celebration of gratitude. The luncheon continues a long-standing Bradenton tradition of recognizing those who have served while fostering community connection and support.
Old Navy Opens at Ellenton Premium Outlets
In October, Old Navy officially opened its first Manatee County location at Ellenton Premium Outlets, bringing new jobs and economic activity to the region. The store adds dozens of local retail positions and further solidifies Ellenton’s role as one of Southwest Florida’s busiest shopping destinations.
The opening contributes to ongoing economic growth in the county’s retail sector, where national and regional brands continue investing to meet the needs of a growing population. For Ellenton Premium Outlets, the addition of Old Navy enhances its mix of accessible, family-friendly retailers—helping keep consumer spending and employment opportunities close to home.
Lifesaving Drone Program Expansion
In September 2025, Manatee County expanded its groundbreaking 9-1-1 integrated drone delivery system, becoming the first program in the nation to use drones to deliver lifesaving equipment directly to emergency scenes. Originally launched in May 2024, the program had served a 3.5-square-mile zone only during weekday daylight hours. Phase Two, which launched on September 29, increased coverage to 35 square miles and extended service to seven days a week, from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
When a 9-1-1 call is placed for cardiac arrest or an opioid overdose, a drone can now deliver an AED or NARCAN nasal spray in under three minutes—often arriving before first responders. The initiative is a partnership between Manatee County, ArcherFRS, and Tampa General Hospital, reflecting a shared commitment to using innovation to save lives.
Officials say the technology has already proven its value in speeding up critical care during emergencies, and the program’s success could serve as a model for other communities across the country.
Bradenton Kiwanis was awarded the Florida District Club of the Year for 2023-2024!
EAT LIKE A LOCAL
The SARASOTA-MANATEE ORIGINALS consist of over 70 locally-owned restaurants throughout Florida’s Suncoast, from the tip of Anna Maria Island to the southern beaches of Venice. Their owners and operators share a passion for dining excellence and commitment to our community while celebrating our rich Gulf-coastal lifestyle.
