East County Observer 5.8.25

EAST COUNTY

Observer

Lakewood Ranch’s weekly newspaper since 1998

Mainly more than music.

PAGE 10B

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

VOLUME 26, NO. 38

YOUR TOWN

Eastward shift for county government

Plan would move more Manatee operations into Lakewood Ranch office building. SEE PAGE 3A

Courtesy image

Over(night) Achievers Out of 531 Homewood Suites across the United States, the University Town Center location ranked third for quality and guest satisfaction.

The Hilton-brand hotel was given the 2024 Conrad Achievement Award on April 24. The award recognizes the top 1% of hotels in each brand nationwide.

The UTC location has also earned the Hilton Award of Excellence three times since opening in 2017.

General Manager Tiffany Howell (above) said one of the most rewarding parts of her job is seeing her team recognized for the hard work and dedication they bring to the hotel every day.

Madison Bierl

Beverly Baxter, Melanie Johnson, Royale Bouie and Dashena Gibson all work in the transportation department for Manatee County Schools. Baxter trains new drivers and Johnson is the assistant director of transportation. Bouie and Gibson both began as bus attendants and are working on becoming drivers.

Madison Bierl

Granddog galivant

Rebecca Bergman, Lakewood Ranch resident of five years, dogsits her “granddog,” 13-year-old Morkie (Maltese and Yorkie mix), Winston, once every couple of months.

Winston has lived his whole life with Bergman’s daughter, Samantha, and Eddie Martin, of Tampa, who frequently travel for work, which is when Bergman steps in to help.

Bergman says Winston enjoys frequent naps and car rides along with their walks.

Bergman said he normally walks on his own, but after learning high temperatures can hurt the bottom of dogs’ paws, she decided to take him in a stroller.

“Being a loving grandmother, I don’t want to hurt him,” Bergman said. “I want to give him back in good shape.”

In search of the best of the best County aims to add school bus drivers to the team for new academic year. SEE PAGE 8A

A+E

First phase of K-8 classrooms nears completion.

SEE PAGE 2A

For free access via our app, visit YourObserver.com/app-offer

$0.10

School days ahead

Shared space, shared spirit.

PAGE 15A

Madison Bierl

Brando Fetzek, vice president and project executive for NDC Construction Co., said the school district project is its priority, and they’re going to deliver it on time and under budget.

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YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

Lake Manatee makes progress for August opening LAKE MANATEE FAST FACTS ■ Pre-construction was approved on July 25, 2023 ■ 1,692 student stations will be in effect ■ $105,609,280 budget ■ The site is 40 acres ■ Lake Manatee will be the home of the Otters ■ The elementary will be open in August ■ Middle school opens in August 2026

MADISON BIERL STAFF WRITER

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rando Fetzek and Todd Richardson have worked together before, but it was years ago and under very different circumstances.

Fetzek is vice president and project executive for NDC Construction Co. and has been working on building the new K-8 school Lake Manatee for the past 11 months.

Richardson will be the school’s first principal when it opens to its first students in the coming school year.

Both walked the halls of Manatee High from 2001-04, Fetzek as a student and Richardson as his assistant drum line director. Now, they’re collaborating again.

“Working on this very important project is full circle in a way,” Fetzek said. “I’m helping contribute to the community.”

Richardson said Fetzek has done well in his career and is delighted to be reunited to work on such a project.

Phase 1 of the school opens in August, which includes an administration office, media center, a twostory elementary school wing and a courtyard.

Phase 2 includes the gymnasium and the middle school, which will open in August 2026.

“Just since April 7, we’ve enrolled 40 students, and since Jan. 1, we’ve enrolled 240,” said Richardson “We are in an area that is blossoming with growth, and this campus will be full any day now.”

The site is 40 acres located at 17210 Academic Ave. in Lakewood Ranch, near State Road 64 and Uihlein Road.

There will be 1,692 student stations in grades K-8. The budget of the project is $105,609,280.

Due to the range and number of students, the design team and construction workers put a lot of

Madison Bierl

Brando Fetzek, vice president and project executive for NDC Construction Co., and Jessica Roddenberry, project manager from HKS Architects & Designers, recently led a tour of the building.

thought into the different spaces, which includes the drop-off zone for students.

“The queuing loop goes around the pond and behind the building,” Fetzek said. “You’ve got plenty of queuing to get all of the traffic off the road.”

Due to younger pre-K students needing a little bit more time to get out of the car, they designed an area specifically for younger kids to be dropped off.

“There’s a little loop that pulls them off the main car loop so they don’t slow down the whole parent loop and gives them the proper time and a little bit more safety since they’re little,” said Jessica Roddenberry, the project manager from HKS Architects & Designers.

The main entry of the school will have canopy fencing with administration on one side and dining off to the other.

In the dining room, there will be four serving lines as well as a graband-go section.

When creating it, designers again thought about how to serve different age groups as students will differ in height and food preferences.

Roddenberry said it was important to make sure that those lines accommodated the full breadth of students coming through.

Richardson stressed the importance of having big spaces that can be used for multiple purposes, including a space for the staff to collaborate.

“We can use it for overflow, for testing groups. We can use it to set up a book fair,” Richardson said. “Everything in here is also on wheels, so we can move everything to the side and make a grand space.”

In the media center, there will be areas for different age groups. One side will have a large built-in seating area for story time. On the other, there will be cafe tables for older students.

Richardson said everything in here is portable, with the bookshelves being on wheels. IT Support will also be in the media center.

“Students can come in if they have an issue with their Chromebook, and it’s also close enough to my office if I can’t figure out how to work my printer,” Richardson joked.

In the shared spaces including the media center and dining center,

The pre-K and kindergarten play area in the courtyard is underway. There will be separation between students attending school next year and construction of Phase 2, which is expected to wrap up in early 2026.

the restrooms have small toilets for younger kids and standard-sized fixtures for older kids.

“Those are the spaces where we’ll have some really intentional convergence of these age groups coming together and being able to mentor and share with one another,” Roddenberry said.

Two music rooms connect so students can move between practice rooms and ensemble and share some of these shared storage spaces.

The music area of the school is in close proximity to the dining area where a stage is located as well as the gym which will be built as part of the second phase.

The skills lab is an oversized classroom space that provides a lot of real estate to work with to provide students extra support according to Richardson.

Two classrooms share one space to support all levels of learners.

Roddenberry said one of the ways they tried to break down the scale of the school was to create learning neighborhoods based around a Manatee County ecosystem. The media center is what they call an ecotone where water and land come together, representing different age groups coming together.

Within these learning neighborhoods, students will be able to find a teacher, support specialist and guidance counselors all sitting and branded around those ecosystems.

Fetzek said from a construction perspective, they’re in the home stretch with getting the lighting in, ceiling tiles, flooring and other touches in for phase one.

“Our plan of attack is to have our normal construction finishing up during the day, and in the evening, we’ll have the flooring crews coming in,” Fetzek said. “That way we’ve got no issues with flooring trying to go down at the same time.”

While the first cohort of students attends the school, builders will have to be mindful of keeping separation from construction operations.

“We’re wrapping up the exterior of those buildings now. When we say construction with the school being operational, we’re really talking about interiors,” Fetzek said.

“We’re not anticipating any disruption whatsoever when conducting all the classes.”

Fetzek said if they keep the flow of construction going, they should be complete with the second phase in February.

“That lands in a kind of awkward time for the district, but we’re not going to say to our subcontractors, we’ll come back in a couple months and let’s finish,” Fetzek said. “We’re going to keep them going and deliver this thing as fast as possible.”

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Youngest students expected to start new year at K-8 school.

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

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LAKEWOOD RANCH, THE NEW COUNTY SEAT? Staff stated in its report that if purchased, 9000 Town Center Parkway would serve as “the new county administration building.”

The staff report did not mention vacating the current administration building. Commissioner Felts stated that the building would remain because of its location within the county seat.

However, by Florida statute, the county seat can be expanded or changed. Commissioners or one third of registered voters can initiate the process.

While it was more than 100 years ago, it has been done before. Bradenton was not the county’s original seat. This was pulled from DeSoto County’s website: “Pine Level (near Arcadia) was established and designated the county seat of Manatee County, April 29, 1866, becoming the first county seat of DeSoto County on May 19, 1887. At that time, DeSoto County was created from Manatee.”

McCann questioned where the county seat is actually located now.

“My address (in the River Club) is still Bradenton,” he said. “Is it really outside the county seat?”

Photos by Lesley Dwyer

Manatee County is considering purchasing 9000 Town Center Parkway for a new administration building.

GO EAST

County leaders say moving government toward the people makes sense.

s the population center

■ $23.5 million purchase price

of Manatee County shifts

■ $34.8 million total cost to purchase and upgrade

McCann said the county is looking at more utilitarian uses for the site — storage, garages and possibly a fueling station.

If approved by commissioners, staff has the Town Center location slated for administration offices and services for the public.

■ Two stories

GROWING PAINS

LESLEY DWYER STAFF WRITER

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east, services and employ-

ees are looking to follow.

The matter has been a topic of discussion for commissioners since 161 acres were purchased off Lena Road in 2020. The intention was to build a new county complex there.

Now, county staff are recommending the purchase of a $24.5 million, 101,312-square-foot building in Lakewood Ranch to serve as the new county administration building.

The current administration building is located in downtown Bradenton.

Commissioners Carol Felts and Bob McCann both said the current building will remain in place because it lies within the “county seat,” which is defined by the Florida Constitution as where the principal offices and permanent records of all county officers are located.

Commission meetings would continue to be held in the Honorable Patricia M. Glass Chambers in the same building, but Development Services and other departments would relocate.

“It’ll save (East County residents) a lot of trips,” Commissioner Bob McCann said. “You could do permitting over here, and on top of that, I’ll have an office here. You can come see me (in Lakewood Ranch), instead of having to go all the way downtown.”

The seller is listed on the contract as a limited liability company out of Delaware, CMHC 9000 JV LLC, but the manager for the LLC is MH Commercial Real Estate Fund LLC out of West Palm Beach.

Administration conducted a site visit to the property at 9000 Town Center Parkway on Jan. 30. As far as McCann knows, it was the only property considered for purchase because it’s already built and became available.

According to a sale listing on LoopNet, a nationwide portal for commercial real estate, the office building opened in 1998 and was renovated in 2011.

One of the commission’s major concerns for building from scratch on the Lena Road property has been the high cost of construction.

Sarasota County is in the midst

9000 TOWN CENTER PARKWAY

■ 101,312 square feet ■ 11.28 acres

of moving its administration center east and out of its administration building on Ringling Boulevard in Sarasota. The county is building a four-story, 122,000-square-foot building overlooking Celery Fields.

The county sold its current downtown Sarasota administration building to Benderson Development for $25 million in December 2021. The new center is anticipated to be completed this year at a cost of about $74 million.

Manatee County’s total budget to move to Town Center Parkway is under $35 million.

According to the staff report, the budget includes the purchase price of $24.5 million, plus remodeling, equipment and overhead costs.

The Lena Road property cost $32.5 million. The land is about 14 times larger than the proposed property on Town Center Parkway, but there’s nothing on it.

There are no immediate plans for the property next to the Lena Road Landfill, but it will be retained by the county regardless of any new plans.

While it was listed as a surplus property in 2024, at the start of the year, Commissioner Tal Siddique led the charge to remove it from the list.

Commissioner Carol Felts said the county could use more space by expanding its footprint to another property.

She cited the State Attorney’s Office as just one example. Its Manatee office is located in the administration building already, but the office would like to take over the second floor.

Felts added that said citizens need “adequate parking” when accessing services.

The listing for 9000 Town Center Parkway details 615 surface parking spaces, along with covered parking.

Commission Chair George Kruse was out of town when contacted for comment. However, he previously expressed a similar view to that of Felts when the Lena Road property was being discussed in January.

He told the East County Observer that the limited parking downtown was only going to work for so long before the county would have to meet the population where it was and stop forcing them to travel downtown. It was merely a matter of when that shift would happen.

He noted in the same conversation that Tax Collector Ken Burton Jr. has already moved east. The new East Manatee branch merged two branches into one and opened in Lakewood Ranch in September 2024.

Residents needing services from the current administration building have to either pay to park in the adjacent garage or find street park-

The current Manatee County Administration Building is in downtown Bradenton.

The property that is proposed to serve as the new Manatee County Administration Building in Lakewood Ranch.

ing, which is limited to two hours.

The city of Bradenton reports more than 1,700 parking spaces downtown between the garages and street parking.

However, about 400 of those spaces are within the current administration building’s parking garage, and plans for that garage are now up in the air.

Staff’s proposal includes nixing that project to pay for the Lakewood Ranch property.

When the garage was initially inspected, the report stated, “There are massive areas requiring repair within the next 18 to 24 months.”

The project sheet doesn’t date the inspection but the design for the new garage was supposed to be completed

by October 2022.

The cost would’ve been over $8 million for repairs, so staff and commissioners added a nearly $85 million project to the Capital Improvement Plan that would have razed the current facility to build a bigger, more efficient parking garage.

When the East County Observer reached out to the county for an update on the garage, Information Outreach Manager Bill Logan said he tried to get an update, but all information regarding the Town Center bulding purchase is on lockdown until the commissioners can hear the full presentation, as to protect the negotiations.

Felts said commissioners were told about the Town Center building in January or February, but noted that there were and still are tenants in the building. For that reason, she thought it was smart not to make any announcements.

The building is occupied by two tenants, each leasing one floor and about 50,000 square feet of the building.

TriNet, a human resources provider, is on the first floor and the Federal Emergency Management Agency is on the second.

The staff report states that TriNet’s lease would be terminated and the company will be vacated before closing on or before Sept. 1. TriNet did not respond to a request for comment.

FEMA’s lease terminates on Nov. 1, but the agency has a three-month extension upon 30 days written notice.

If FEMA stays functional under the Trump administration, McCann said FEMA will stay in the building and lease from the county.

“It’ll give (residents) better contact with FEMA,” he said. “That would be kind of nice to have FEMA, Public Works and the ability for a commissioner to walk in and say, ‘Hey, we need this now.’”

The seller signed the intent-tosell contract April 28. Commissioners were scheduled to make their final decision this week at the commission meeting.

The parking lot has more than 600 parking spaces.

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

NEWS BRIEFS

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NO CDD

The Manatee County School Board last week accepted the resignation of a fifth grade teacher at B.D. Gullett Elementary under investigation for inappropriate contact with at least one student.

Jarrett Williams’ resignation was accepted 4-1, with school board member Cindy Spray casting the dissenting vote, instead urging the district fire the teacher.

Superintendent Jason Wysong said Williams would be considered to have resigned under investigation, which will trigger a flurry of notifications on his employment record and potential job references.

It also would have the same effect as a firing, agreed legal representative Patricia Petruff and general counsel Kevin Pendley.

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the allegations.

“When there are no external investigations happening, the work happens quickly, but again, we do nothing that interferes with an external investigation,” Wysong said.

A public speaker at last week’s Manatee County School Board meeting, who identified herself as the mother of a child with whom Williams had inappropriate contact, said she had a “two-page, handwritten, textbook grooming letter that was written by this teacher and given to my 11-year-old daughter.”

She also alleged that a video portrays the teacher and her daughter entering a classroom alone and remaining there for 45 minutes, which a school guardian reported.

The woman, who the Observer is not identifying because doing so would identify the victim, also pushed for the teacher’s dismissal, rather than resignation.

Wysong said the law enforcement investigation would take initial precedence, but the case would be investigated by the state Department of Education and local district authorities.

In a statement, the school district said Williams had been reassigned to noninstructional duties on March 10 after the letter had been reported.

The district said it alerted Florida Department of Children and Families, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Department of Education’s Office of Professional Practices.

According to the statement: “Once the Sheriff’s Office gave the district authorization, Mr. Williams was interviewed by the district’s Office of Professional Standards. During that interview, on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, Mr. Williams submitted his resignation from employment with the district.’’

Bigger trash cans coming to your curb Manatee County is rolling out wheeled 96-gallon trash-collection bins as part of an overall program to automate and consolidate pickup service.

The free bins will begin arriving to residents soon, county officials said, though their use will not be compulsory until Oct. 6. Their implementation will coincide with automated lift-and-dump trucks that can be operated by a solo driver.

“The Big Bin Advantage represents a significant step forward in modernizing our waste-management services,” said Patrick Shea, Manatee County Utilities director.

“By adopting larger, standardized bins, we are aligning with industry standards that prioritize efficiency, environmental responsibility, and customer convenience.”

County leaders say the shift will pave the way for weekly single-day neighborhood collection of household trash, recycling and yard waste which currently is undertaken by several trucks on multiple days to the same address.

Residents can request an extra trash bin by calling 941-792-8811.

Smaller, 64-gallon recycling bins for single-stream collection are already in use throughout the county.

Beginning on Oct. 1, yard waste must be in bins, bundles or paper bags at the curbside.

For information, visit MyManatee. org/BigBin or contact Manatee County Utilities Customer Service at 941-792-8811.

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Gullett Elementary teacher quits under investigation

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YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

“As I’m looking at all these kids I had, I had some of them in third grade and some of them in fifth grade, and it’s funny, I still see the child version of these adult children.”

— Joadie Durfee

Photos by Madison Bierl

Lauren Wade, Rose Reece and Izabella DeToma led the group to be clapped out and celebrated by their families and former teachers.

Off they go

Manatee seniors reunite with old friends and teachers before moving on.

out, students reunited with old classmates, teachers and families to be clapped out once again and sent off in different directions.

“A lot of these kids haven’t seen each other in seven years, and I just thought to celebrate, a symbolic celebration of their graduation, to do a gathering so the kids can see each other again,” said Denise Pope, a parent who organized the event.

Joadie Durfee taught at Braden River Elementary from 2015-21 before transferring to Harvey Elementary.

“As I’m looking at all these kids I had, I had some of them in third grade and some of them in fifth grade, and it’s funny, I still see the child version of these adult children,” Durfee said.

“It’s really cool to see who they are now and hear all of their plans.”

Durfee is known for having her students and their families over to

her house, a yearly tradition to which she looks forward.

“I encourage parents to stay so the parents talk and get to know each other, and it seems like after that event each year, my kids are having sleepovers because their parents have met,” Durfee said. “They’ve exchanged information and it just really builds that classroom community.”

Kenneth Ordonez is a senior at Bradenton Christian School who wants to pursue a doctorate in psychology.

He said that English was difficult for him in elementary school, and when he had Durfee as his teacher in third grade, she helped him.

“She was not just like a teacher, but more like a really good friend of mine,” Ordonez said.

Ordonez said that being able to connect with other students and families at Durfee’s house made a real

MADISON BIERL STAFF WRITER

I

n a full-circle moment, graduating Class of 2025 seniors returned to Braden River Elementary School, where they completed elementary school in 2018. Every year, Braden River Elementary claps out their graduating fifth graders as a farewell and good luck as they go their separate ways.

“The fifth grade students get to walk in front of all of the parents, all the teachers, and we just congratulate them and give them a clap out as they head towards middle school,” said Paddi Juliano, mother of Nicolas Juliano, a senior at Lakewood Ranch High School.

Nicolas Juliano plans to attend Florida Gulf Coast University to pursue a degree in nursing.

Seven years after being clapped

impact on him, and said it was one of the most important moments he remembers from elementary school.

Mabel Ordonez is Kenneth’s mother, who was also excited and happy to visit Braden River Elementary again.

Mabel Ordonez used to volunteer at the school when her son was little, so she had good relationships with the other parents and teachers.

“I feel so proud of my son, that he’s doing so well, and I feel blessed that he’s a good kid,” Mabel Ordonez said. “I always pray every single day to God that he is going to graduate and God will open up doors for him.”

Julian Elcoro, a senior at Braden River High School, said returning to Braden River Elementary “feels weird, everything feels smaller and it looks different.”

Adriane Jenkel, Elcoro’s mother, joined her son to reunite with old friends.

“It’s very surreal and emotionally it’s not sad, it’s nostalgic,” said Adriane Jenkel, mother of Julian Elcoro, a senior at Braden River High School.

Elcoro’s goal is to become an EMT firefighter and was among the students who looked back on his time

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with Durfee fondly.

“She was always fun, she was never mean, always kind and caring,” Elcoro said. “She was good as a teacher overall and just fun to have.”

Jenkel showed Durfee a photo of her son and Durfee when he was in third grade and received certificates for being good at science.

“That’s the little guy I remember!”

Durfee said when she was shown the photo.

Durfee said the first thing she thought when seeing all of the students again was “my how you’ve grown!” She found out William Pope wants to be an engineer and thought that made a whole lot of sense.

“He was always a happy-go-lucky kid and still seems a happy-go-lucky guy,” Durfee said.

Andrew Pope’s future plans are to go to Florida State and major in business or economics. He said it was fun to reminisce back at Braden River Elementary.

“It was pretty cool seeing Julian (Elcoro). I was pretty close with him in elementary school,” Andrew Pope said. “And Nico (Juliano).”

Denise Pope said she has mixed and bittersweet emotions about her twin sons, Andrew and William Pope, who attend Bradenton Christian School, graduating and heading their own separate ways.

“It’s very fortunate that we’ve had the experience that we have had in our education systems throughout Manatee County, and they prepared them well,” Denise Pope said.

“They’ll do great.”

Kenneth Ordonez and his elementary school teacher, Joadie Durfee, got to reunite at the gathering. Ordonez described Durfee as not only a teacher, but also a good friend.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

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Lesley Dwyer

The Juice Pod serves cold press juices, smoothies, bowls, wellness shots and specialty toasts. It’s located on Lakewood Main Street.

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New franchise was worth the squeeze After a series of setbacks, owners Tali and Jeremy Williams are up and running with the brand’s first Florida franchise.

LESLEY DWYER STAFF WRITER

W

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hat would you do if you could do anything?

Lakewood Ranch’s Tali Williams was asked that question in a basement restaurant in Italy two years ago.

When her husband, Jeremy Williams, started thinking back to that night, as he was sitting in their newly opened The Juice Pod franchise on Lakewood Main Street, he shook his head with a bit of disbelief.

“It’s kind of a crazy story,” he said.

“It’s almost like (opening this business) was meant to be.”

The Williams were in Italy because their daughter, Kada Fehlman, was

now May 31, 2025

Courtesy image

The Juice Pod has a full menu of smoothies.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

supportive through all the ups and downs.

The couple is also starting a new chapter as empty nesters. They have known each other since they were about 13 years old.

Jeremy Williams is 48, and Tali Williams is 47. They started dating when she was 16, and he was 17.

They’ve been married for 26 years.

Tali Williams got teary-eyed when talking about how proud she is of her husband for coming from nothing and making a success of himself.

Part of why she wanted to be a business owner is because of her husband’s success owning an insurance agency.

Both the Williams are keeping their day jobs until The Juice Pod is more established. Tali Williams pivoted from teaching and coaching to curriculum sales.

However, the time might come to give up the day jobs sooner rather than later. For five years, no one else can open a Juice Pod franchise within Sarasota and Manatee counties, so the goal is to open two more locations before their exclusive rights expire.

While the name is The Juice Pod, and the juice is freshly made to order, the menu features smoothies, bowls and toasts, too.

The bread for the toast comes from East County’s Crust ’n’ Crumb and only has three ingredients.

“We started looking at some other suppliers of bread, and there are like 20 ingredients in them and most of them are preservatives,” Jeremy Williams said. “That’s not what we’re looking for, so we partnered with (Crust ’n’ Crumb), and it’s been a hit.

People go crazy for the toast.”

Out of 15 options, his favorite toast is the Burrata, which is topped with burrata cheese, arugula, prosciutto, pear, microgreens and a balsamic drizzle. The menu has an even larger selection of bowls, smoothies and cold press juices. There are wellness shots, too, if feeling tired, hungover or on the verge of a cold.

However, not every menu item is strictly about health and wellness.

“Some of (the smoothies) are just for pleasure, like the Almond Joy,” Tali Williams said. “That’s a fun smoothie over a health benefit smoothie. But there are options for everybody, and that’s what’s nice.”

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getting married. Jeremy Williams noted that he was able to spend three weeks in Italy for what a wedding at The Ringling would have cost.

He and his wife were seated close to another couple that night in the restaurant. As the wine flowed, so did the conversation. The couple, Danielle and Jon Leonhardt, had a connection to Youngstown, Ohio, where the Williamses went to college.

As the strangers talked about their professions, Tali Williams expressed frustration about not making any money in education since moving from Ohio to Florida.

When asked what she would do if she could do anything, she said she’d open a juice bar.

The response from Danielle Leonhardt was “I own a juice bar.”

Leonhardt runs The Juice Pod with her sister, Christine Wyatt. There are 18 locations, but the Lakewood Ranch franchise is the first in Florida.

The other stores are in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Psoriasis is what led Tali Williams to the idea of wanting to own a juice bar. When she started drinking celery juice, her symptoms cleared up.

After returning from Italy and having a few bad weeks at work, Tali Williams was ready to take a chance, so she reached out to the Leonhardts on Instagram, and initially, didn’t hear back. For months.

Then came a reply from Jon Leonhardt. “Are you serious?”

They were. Very. But while fate might have been on their side, normal obstacles of launching a business were presented along the way to their April 12 opening.

The first location the Williams decided on was instead rented to an AT&T store after three months of waiting on a lease.

After finding a space on Main Street, it took seven months to get a building permit for interior modifications, and they lost about $20,000 to the first contractor they hired.

When the store finally opened, Tali Williams’ dad died two weeks later, and the couple had to fly back to Ohio.

On the other hand, the shop already has several regulars, and the couple know most of their names.

The Williams said Main Street at Lakewood Ranch was incredibly

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YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

EAST COUNTY

Christian Link described being a bus driver as his unexpected dream job. He has worked there for three and a half years and has trained other drivers for two and a half.

“If we are to build a better world, we must remember that the guiding principle is this — a policy of freedom for the individual is the only truly progressive policy.”

Friedrich Hayek

“Road to Serfdom,” 1944 Publisher and President / Emily Walsh, EWalsh@YourObserver.com Associate Publisher — East County Observer / Lori Ruth, LRuth@YourObserver.com Executive Editor and COO / Kat Wingert, KWingert@YourObserver.com

A class of their own Manatee County is looking for school bus drivers, but not just anyone will fit the bill.

MADISON BIERL STAFF WRITER

A

s a child, Jamie Warrington lived across the street from a high school, which happened to also be the site of the local bus facility. On his sick days, he spent his free time sitting on the back of his couch looking through a bay window, watching as the buses drove in and out for their runs.

“I’ve had a rather bizarre obsession with school buses since being a little tyke,” Warrington said. “There’s something about them that I found to be fascinating.”

Warrington, now the School District of Manatee County’s director of transportation services, has worked in school transportation for 31 years.

He began as a bus driver and worked his way up, here for the past three years in his current role. With 93 active bus drivers hired for 95 routes, a bus driver shortage is currently a struggle for the department.

“It’s a very difficult job to do, and not for the faint of heart,” Warrington said.

Warrington said the number of drivers available varies from week to week because of leaves of absence and vacations. He also said some drivers are set for retirement at the end of the school year, so the need for new drivers will be even greater for the coming school year. And then there are ever-present sick days.

“We certainly don’t want a driver coming to work congested and cloudy and not being able to focus 100% on the task at hand,” Warrington said.

Christian Link, a bus driver at Manatee schools for three and a half years, said because of the shortage,

Jamie Warrington has always been fascinated with education and the school districts’ transportation systems and followed his childhood dream to become a bus driver. He now works as the director of transportation services for the School District of Manatee.

they’ve had to get real with coverages, figuring out who can carry what extra loads and when and where.

“I’m just gonna keep on driving.

The more I can drive, the happier I am,” Link said. “The less drivers we have, the more people have to work to make up the coverage, and the more stress that builds on everyone else.

Unfortunately, that just becomes a bit of a cycle, until we get more good trainees.”

Warrington said they have had to cover as many as 18 routes at once that didn’t have a driver. The majority of the office staff used to be bus drivers as they tend to be promoted from within the department. A lot of them still maintain their CDL certifications, so they have been sent out to help cover when needed.

The summer is hiring season for bus drivers, but they hire yearround. Warrington said training is offered every two weeks, and if they have even one applicant they will do it because the need is that critical.

At every class, Warrington asks the new employees “what do you think is the most important quality for a school bus driver or bus attendant to be successful?” Warrington has heard all sorts of answers regarding safety and communication but is always looking for one specific answer.

“If you don’t have a tolerance for children, this is definitely the wrong line of work,” Warrington said. Link said if you don’t like kids, you can go drive a cement truck.

Warrington said there are no bad children, but they are sometimes just misguided. The drivers may not know what the children endure in their personal lives.

“You know something is causing them to act that way, and it’s part of our job to try to maneuver that, figure that out, and to try to work with it, while still trying to do the mission of getting the kids to school safely, quickly and efficiently as possible.”

Warrington said a lot of people hesitate to become a bus driver for fear of how big the buses are and how they differ from cars.

“They don’t realize that it’s automatic transmission, it’s power steering and air brakes and it’s just like driving your car. It’s just bigger,” Warrington said. “I’ve always joked with my wife that I can park a school bus much better than I can park a regular car.”

Along with the drivers, every bus has an attendant to help watch over the kids and make sure everyone is safe and behaving. Royale Bouie has been working as a bus attendant for three years and would get off and

Photos by Madison Bierl

DO YOU WANT TO BECOME A BUS DRIVER OR ATTENDANT? ■ Paid CDL training ($1,500 value) ■ Benefits ■ Uniform allowance ■ Thanksgiving, Christmas, spring break and summer off ■ Bus attendant pay starts at $16.46 an hour ■ Bus driver pay starts at $23.06 an hour If interested, reach out to Linda Agresta at (941) 7088800 extension 44119 or by email at AgrestaL@ ManateeSchools. net.

on at every stop to make sure the kids got on the bus who needed to.

Attendants also help with tasks such as making sure everyone is buckled in and helping secure students in wheelchairs.

Twelve bus attendants are in some stage of the process of upgrading to becoming a bus driver. Bouie was hesitant at first and thought driving wasn’t for her, but she is studying and training to get her CDL to become a driver.

“I tell them all the time, I’m not going back. No attending,” Bouie said. “Nothing wrong with the kids, nothing wrong with being the attendant but I’m dedicated to it, and I’m going to set my mind to it.”

Link enjoys driving the bus and described it as his unexpected dream job, despite the struggle of driving around the other drivers on the road.

“I used to live in St. Augustine, lived there 10 years,” Link said. “I can count on one hand how many times I used my horn when I was there. I broke that within my first month down here.”

Link said the best feeling in the world is when the kids and parents come up to him every day.

“I had one girl who never said a word, nothing, but I told her ‘good morning’ every day,” Link said. “I told her ‘good morning’ in about April and she finally said, ‘thank you,’ or ‘good morning’ back.”

He has received gifts from the families, including lumpia, which is a traditional dish from the Philippines.

“Once they start liking you enough that they’re bringing you treats and presents, it’s like I am doing something right,” Link said.

Warrington said that being a bus driver is a thankless job that isn’t looked upon highly and isn’t compensated to match the responsibility that they take on. At the school board meeting on April 29, the starting wage for bus drivers was approved to be raised from $19.57 an hour to $23.06 per hour.

Warrington said most people who come and work for the school district don’t do it for the money, but for the students.

“Our team of drivers in attendance here are phenomenal. They’re here to take care of our kids,” Warrington said. “They do the best that they can with what they’ve got to work with.”

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YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

SIDE OF RANCH

9A

JAY HEATER

Manatee offers residents a $23.5 million surprise

S

o first, a brief understanding of “transparency” with a definition from Merriam-Webster.

“Transparency means the quality or state of being transparent, free from pretense or deceit, and readily understood. In essence, it describes the ability to be seen through or understood easily, without hidden elements.”

I wanted to be transparent if I was going to write about transparency.

It was a word used often during the last election, when Manatee County Commission candidates were campaigning. As voters, we were told that we weren’t going to be subjected to back-room deals that would be raced on to an agenda at the last minute and pushed through without the citizens having a chance to offer feedback.

Following the 2024 election, it has been refreshing that we have seen less last-minute additions to agendas. The current Board of County Commissioners has restored ways for the residents to offer feedback, as well. Thank you very much.

On May 6, though, transparency took a hit.

Item 55 on the agenda was “Execution of Contract for Sale and Purchase from CMHC 9000 JV LLC, for property located at 9000 Town Center Parkway, Lakewood Ranch.”

It appears Manatee County is going to move many of the offices in its administration building to Lakewood Ranch.

Wowza.

Now this doesn’t qualify as a huge surprise since most of us know the growth of East County has demanded more services be moved this way. The county has talked about placing more services on the Premier property, or on the property the county owns off Lena Road near the landfill. It was a matter of time before we had more county administration offices come to

Lesley Dwyer

This is the two-story building in Lakewood Ranch that Manatee County is considering as a new administration building.

Lakewood Ranch.

But raise your hand if you saw coming a $23.5 million purchase of a 101,312-square-foot building at 9000 Town Center Parkway?

Now, you might say, that’s what the May 6 regular Manatee County Commission meeting was all about, letting the citizens know about this possible purchase and giving them a chance for feedback.

Ah, no.

Perhaps I have become jaded by previous county antics, but I don’t think anyone cares what we, the residents, think about all this.

My reaction is that this sale is a handshake, done deal that is being trotted out to be rubber stamped.

The meeting was held just after the East County Observer’s deadline for this issue.

I hope I am wrong. I hope there was serious discussion on the

purchase and a vote on a final decision whether to purchase the property is scheduled for a meeting a month down the road. I hope the commissioners want to hear from their constituents before making a decision.

I want to emphasize that being transparent isn’t something that is essential only to bad deals. You have to be transparent across the board.

I would imagine the knee-jerk reaction of Lakewood Ranch residents is that this is a great move by the county to make services more accessible. In general, I would agree that it seems like a good thing for East County and I would applaud the work by Manatee County’s staff members who are making it happen.

That being said, for better transparency, I would have liked to have heard this out of a commission

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meeting following the Jan. 30 site visit by Manatee County administration, property management and development services personnel to determine the potential of the property to serve as the new county administration building.

“We are going to discuss today potential opportunities in Lakewood Ranch we have to move services east. We are considering to buy an existing structure, upwards of $25 million, as opposed to building on land we already own in East County (such as Premier or Lena Road). We can’t name exact properties we are considering at this time.”

That would have given interested citizens a chance to contact with their commissioners and give their feedback about how their $25 million is being spent.

The county has pulled back in the last six months on some of its major projects, putting them on hold, due to spiraling costs. Is this the time to spend $25 million to make things more convenient for those who live in East County?

The building was sold in 2021 for $20.3 million, so is $23.5 a good deal? Probably so. Probably.

Is the area around 9000 Town Center Parkway a good site for such an enterprise? Maybe.

Transparency always seems to take a hit when negotiations begin on major projects, at least in Manatee County. The reasoning is that the taxpayers will save money if negotiations are done in secret.

Government secrets always cost us in the long run.

The county knows it wants to buy a building. The seller of the building knows the county wants to buy its building. You know what that means? It means everyone who matters knows anyway. Why is secrecy needed?

Everyone knows about the deal except those who are putting up the money.

One school of thought was that

Jay Heater is the managing editor for the East County Observer. Contact him at JHeater@ YourObserver.com.

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the building at 9000 Town Center Parkway has tenants, so putting out the news that the county was thinking about buying the building would affect them. Well, real estate sites have listed the property as being up for sale, so unless the tenants are paying no attention, they already know.

This is just another example of what I consider a lack of transparency by our local government.

Another main example is the Premier Sports Campus North, which is made up by the 75 acres Manatee County purchased from SchroederManatee Ranch in 2018, adding to the 127-acre Premier Sports Campus and 75 acres north of it that Manatee County purchased in 2017.

Manatee County finally has broken ground on an aquatics and racketball complex that is due late in 2026. What else is supposed to come — in terms of recreational opportunities — on a property that was essentially supposed to be a park? Who knows? The East County Observer has requested interviews with those responsible for Premier planning several times over the last three years and has been turned down each time.

It’s a secret.

This commission has made some positive strides in connecting with the residents. We can only hope that Tuesday’s commission meeting continued that trend. If not, call your commissioners, and remind them whose money they are spending, and their promise to be transparent.

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YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

Former administrator aims to dismiss charges General Surgery

While four additional charges were filed, Hopes files a motion to dismiss three of the charges, based on statute of limitations.

WELCOMES

LESLEY DWYER

Alvaro M. Bada, MD, FACS

STAFF WRITER

A

fter working just under two years as Manatee County administrator, Scott Hopes resigned in February 2023. A year later, he was charged with notary fraud, grand theft and fraudulent use of public records.

However, the state of Florida tweaked and expanded those charges Dr. Alvaro M. Bada brings to Intercoastal Medical Group April 17.

The notary charge was dropped at the Cattleridge I and Lakewood Ranch I offices a wealth of and a petit theft charge was added.

The grand theft and fraudulent use of knowledge and experience in General Surgery. public records charges were expanded to include three counts each.

Hopes now faces a total of sevMedical School: Florida State University College of Medicine, en counts instead of three. All the Tallahassee, FL charges stem from an allegation that he altered time sheets to collect overtime pay from the county.

Residency: Surgery, Orlando Regional Medical Center, Orlando, FL Hopes has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

On April 15, his legal team argued that the state had not been specific Certification: Board Certified, American Board of Surgery enough in its charges. The state responded April 17 by attaching dates to each charge.

Hospital Affiliations: Sarasota Memorial Hospital, Doctors Hospital; The grand theft charge is now Lakewood Ranch Medical Center broken down into three separate A Patient Focused, Multi-Specialty Group l National Expertise l Multiple Locations pay periods, and the fraudulent use of public records charges are tied to specific dates.

After dates were attached to the charges, Hopes’ legal team filed a motion to dismiss three out of the l National Expertise l Multiple Locations A Patient Cattleridge Focused, Multi-Specialty GroupLakewood I Ranch I seven based on the statute of limitations, which is two years for a first 3333 Cattlemen Road 11505 Rangeland Parkway degree misdemeanor and three years Sarasota, FL 34232 Bradenton, FL 34211 for a second or third degree felony.

The charges included in the motion www.intercoastalmedical.com to dismiss — petit theft, grand theft Medicare and most insurances accepted between $750 and $5,000 and fraudulent use of public records for falsifying a time sheet — are alleged to 8.26.21_IMG-Kassover-LWRII-18x24poster.indd 1 8/26/21 3:27 PM have occurred between April 1, 2021 A Patient Focused, Multi-Specialty Group • National Expertise • Multiple Locations and June 3, 2022.

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PAST DEALINGS ON BOTH SIDES Attorney Andrea Flynn Mogensen has had past dealings with Hopes, but from the other side of the courtroom.

Mogensen represented the Florida Center for Government Accountability in 2022 when it sued Manatee County because it wasn’t properly capturing and archiving text messages.

When deposed, Deborah Scaccianoce, former public records manager for the county, said Hopes refused to allow her to examine his phone for public records. The county settled the lawsuit by paying the center $75,000 and implementing software that will automatically capture and archive all county communications.

Scaccianoce will also be deposed in Hopes’ case June 24.

Former county administrator Scott Hopes has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

8/26/21 3:27 PM

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Attorney Andrea Flynn Mogensen argued that those charges are “timebarred,” or no longer valid.

The remaining charges are alleged to have occurred between Sept. 24, 2022 and Nov. 18, 2022.

Hopes’ next court appearance is scheduled for June 26.

Mogensen did not return a request for comment, and the State Attorney’s Office does not comment on active litigation.

8/26/21 3:27 PM

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

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Celebrate NAMI Sarasota and Manatee Counties’ 40th Anniversary

Lesley Dwyer

Benjamin Hansen is Scar in the Woodland Fine Arts Academy’s production of “The Lion King Jr.”

Presented with pride Students at the Woodland Fine Arts Academy have worked on the production since last summer.

Wednesday, May 21, 2025 5:30-7:30 PM Art Center Sarasota 707 N Tamiami Trail

LESLEY DWYER STAFF WRITER

S

tudents at the Woodland Fine Arts Academy are reaping the rewards of a year’s hard work in rounds of applause.

The theater program’s production of “The Lion King Jr.” hit the stage for its first performance May 2.

However, not all the key players were on stage.

Costume designers Carys Di Silvestro, 9, and Gia Thress, 10, were seated in the front row with Di Silvestro’s mom, Danielle, who helped as needed.

“All the flaws we see, you can’t see from (the audience),” Danielle Di Silvestro said. “The costumes are amazing.”

Carys Di Silvestro made Mufasa’s costume.

The actor portraying the lion,

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Parley Hansen, wore a papier mache headpiece adorned with feathers and a faux mane.

The May 2 show was performed by the high school cast.

There’s also a middle school cast of the production that performed the next day.

The academy accepts students starting in pre-K. “Most of our dancers and theater cast that are here at this level have been here probably close to seven or eight years,” Hospitality Coordinator Mindie Camus said.

The students start each year knowing what play will be performed, so that play guides the focus throughout the rest of the year.

The actors start learning their parts right away, but the hands-on building and creating behind the scenes doesn’t kick into gear until January because students need to be taught how to create props and costumes first.

“To see what they’ve achieved in just half-a-year, it’s incredible,” Camus said. “From top to bottom, it’s just great to watch.”

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

Plan a WILD Day for Mom!

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Giving neighbors join the club LESLEY DWYER STAFF WRITER

T

he women living in The Lake Club, one of Lakewood Ranch’s most exclusive communities, do not take their privilege for granted.

They put hard work into sharing their wealth through The Lake Club Women’s Giving Circle.

Since its inception in 2014, the giving circle has donated over $213,000 to local charities that address the needs of women, children and families in Sarasota and Manatee counties.

Nancy Lepain chairs the outreach committee and calls giving a “responsibility.”

The club has grown from 10 members to more than 120 members.

Each new member makes an initial $1,000 contribution to the grant fund and a minimum of $500 annually. An additional $25 annual fee covers the administration costs.

The giving circle is not a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Instead, it operates under the umbrella of the Manatee Community Foundation.

However, it is a hands-on group of women, who personally vet each nonprofit they support. In 2024, 14 local nonprofit organizations received grants totalling $33,000.

The grant amounts range from $1,500 up to $5,000, but the women do not merely dole out money. They also volunteer their time and collect whatever the need is at that moment.

Following Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the women collected approximately 1,000 towels for Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium’s cleanup efforts.

Before school let out last year, the women collected 152 pounds of cereal to help the Food Bank of Manatee feed students over the summer.

Before students went back to school, the giving circle donated 325 pairs of sneakers to The Twig, a nonprofit that ensures children in foster care have clothing and support they need.

Maribeth Phillips, CEO of Meals on Wheels Plus of Manatee, which

Courtesy image

Jennifer Alokeh and Barbara Najmy lead The Lake Club Women’s Giving Circle with passion and compassion.

ABOUT THE NONPROFIT The Lake Club Women’s Giving Circle.

Visit TLCWomensGivingCircle.org.

Mission statement: The Lake Club Women’s Giving Circle is dedicated to supporting organizations that address needs of women, children and families in Sarasota and Manatee counties.

oversees the Food Bank of Manatee, said food drives are more helpful than ever because the donations and needs have not leveled out since the COVID pandemic.

“When COVID started to die down, then you had all the inflation,” Phillips said. “The cost of living and gas had so many more people relying on the food bank, and then, we got the hurricanes (in 2024).”

The women also make time to chip in beyond drives and fundraising.

In February, members prepared book shipments for schools on behalf of Embracing Our Differences. “Our strength lies in our community,” Executive Board member Jennifer Alokeh said.

“Our impact is not just measured in dollars or grants, but in the lives that we’ve touched, the hope that we’ve restored and the community that has helped.”

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ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT MAY 8, 2025

YOUROBSERVER.COM

Towles Court Art Center is a hidden gem within walking distance from downtown.

Towles Court Art Center is located in a 1920s building just footsteps from downtown.

AN

ENCLAVE

Towles Court artist Erica Caswell specializes in jewelry, including a set of earrings (left) that incorporates dried flowers.

EMILY LEINFUSS CONTRIBUTOR

T

ucked into a quiet pocket of downtown Sarasota — just far enough from the buzz of Main Street to feel like a hidden gem — is the artful enclave known as the Towles Court Art Center. Today, it’s home to nine working artists, many with national gallery representation and loyal collectors.

The center occupies a historic 1920s building that’s reminiscent of a farmhouse, complete with an Old Florida-style wraparound porch used for pop-up events and live music.

There’s a restaurant around back.

Inside, the studios hum with creative energy as artists produce new work in mediums ranging from oil paint and metal clay to abstract mixed media.

Together, these artists carry on a tradition of creativity and collaboration that began when the larger Towles Court neighborhood was revitalized in the mid-1990s as an artists’ colony.

The neighborhood itself dates to the 1920s, once a thriving residential area for professionals and seasonal visitors. By the late 1970s, however, it had fallen into disrepair. In 1995, developer N.J. Olivieri began its revival, envisioning — with the help of a few founding artists — a vibrant arts district.

At its peak, Towles Court was home to more than 50 working artists and 25 galleries. Monthly Third Friday Art Walks drew hundreds of people, including this writer. They felt like block parties celebrating how art was so cool.

By 2020, however, the dissolution of the Towles Court Homeowners’ Association and the elimination of deed restrictions on the neighborhood’s historic buildings opened the door for redevelopment, effectively dismantling the artists’ colony.

But despite challenges, the Towles Court Art Center persists, with optimism and creative spirit intact. The storied Third Friday Art Walk continues, October through May from 4-7 p.m., drawing a smaller, but no less enthusiastic, crowd.

IF YOU GO

TOWLES COURT ART CENTER THIRD FRIDAY ART WALK When and Where: 4-7 p.m. on May 16.

Regular hours 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., 38 Adams Lane. Wednesday through Saturday, and by appointment with individual artists.

Info: Visit TowlesCourt.com for more information and to connect with resident artists.

More than just a cluster of studios, the center remains a creative community, a gathering place and a living testament to the resilience of Sarasota’s arts scene, even as the rest of the neighborhood undergoes construction and change.

Towles Court artist Anne Ireland divides her time between Sarasota and Maine.

A SHARED SPACE, A SHARED SPIRIT

Artist Peter Garon works on one of his paintings at Towles Court Art Center. His painting, “Jonquils,” is shown above.

Photos by Emily Leinfuss

“We all have very distinct styles. No two of us are alike. But the camaraderie is strong,” says painter Peter Garon. Originally from Massachusetts and a former architect and gallery owner in Washington, D.C., and Naples, Garon works primarily in oil, often painting “moods” rather than scenes.

His titles evoke emotion, like “Calm,” “Rapture” and “Silence.”

Garon explains his artistic process as beginning with a feeling that gradually evolves into a textured expression of color and form.

For Garon and the eight other artists there, the Towles Court Art CenSEE TOWLES COURT PAGE 16A

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

TOWLES COURT FROM PAGE 15A

ter provides more than just a place to work in concert with each other.

“When I first got to Sarasota and didn’t know where to source materials, everyone was incredibly helpful,” Garon says. Everybody pitches in on everything from event planning to advertising, he notes. “We talk it out and vote as a group.”

Jewelry artist Erica Caswell, whose business Serendipitous Satori began with pop-up events on the building’s porch, calls the center her creative home. Caswell’s work evolved from repurposing broken family jewelry into creating one-of-a-kind pieces crafted from eco-friendly and found materials.

“The artists in our studios are very dedicated, extremely talented and want to continue to provide an exceptional experience for customers and the community as a whole,” Caswell says.

Painter Anne Ireland agrees. “We have a very collaborative and friendly environment here,” she says.

Ireland splits her time between a saltwater farm in Maine and Sarasota, painting most of a piece in Florida before finishing it in her quieter, much larger northern studio, where she can mount and view all her new work as a whole. Still, when she’s gone, she misses the natural light and high ceilings of her Sarasota space.

A graduate of the Portland School of Art, Ireland appreciates the critiques and support she gets at Towles Court, which she doesn’t experience in her Maine studio. “It’s growth through osmosis,” Ireland explains, likening the experience — for herself and visitors alike — to how a museum visit changes minds and sensibilities through exposure to other artists’ visions.

VISITORS WELCOME

A visit to the Towles Court Art Center offers a rare treat: the chance to meet the artist behind the work and see where the magic happens.

“Being able to chat with an artist in person and ask them about their process is such a huge gift,” says Caswell. “It’s completely different from buying something online with no context or connection.”

For Garon, these connections often evolve into friendships. “I’ve

A DYNAMIC AND DIVERSE GROUP

Towles Court resident artists Anne Ireland, Erica Caswell, Helen Rosenkranz and Susan Coyne take a moment to relax.

had visitors come back weeks or years later to buy a piece. Some collectors have become close friends,” he says.

Guests may be treated to refreshments from local bakeries and breweries or even live music by Sarasota musicians.

“We hire local talent for our open studio nights,” Garon notes.

Pop-up events on the porch — like the one that first brought Caswell into the Art Center — range from yoga classes to antique sales hosted by lifelong collectors in their 90s, all adding to the eclectic, communitydriven atmosphere.

That deep connection — between artists and the community, the artists and their collectors and among the artists themselves — sets the Towles Court Art Center apart from museums and many other galleries.

“In a world where human interaction can feel superficial or transactional, this place fosters real relationships,” says Ireland.

Garon echoes the sentiment: “I’ve

even imagined a gathering of my collectors. They don’t know each other, but I’m the thread that connects them.”

“Some people stumble upon us by word of mouth or through a local art directory,” Ireland adds. “But when they do come, they feel the warmth and energy. It’s special.”

AN INVITATION TO SLOW DOWN AND CONNECT

The artists of the Towles Court Art Center are a determined bunch. Even during the challenges of COVID, they continued hosting events for the public. People wore masks and kept their distance, but the tradition of interaction with the community lived on. “These events are part of what make Towles Court Art Center special,” says Ireland. “They’re inclusive, welcoming and full of character.”

The artists of Towles Court aren’t just preserving tradition; they’re looking forward to a vibrant future.

Caswell recently commissioned

muralist Annie Dong to create a custom work in her studio to make it a fanciful gathering place. She plans to host jewelry workshops and social gatherings, building on recent successes like a porch yoga class led by local instructor Kristen Burnett.

While Towles Court Art Center has changed over the decades, its heart remains the same. The architecture, the porch, the people — it all works together to make the center a creative adventure for visitors and artists alike.

Garon says, “People often remark on the quality and level of accomplishment they see when they visit.

And when they do, they usually come back.”

Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a curious browser or a tourist looking to kill time between social engagements, the Towles Court Art Center invites you to slow down, step inside and connect — maybe even to your own inner artist who’s waiting to emerge.

In addition to Peter Garon, Erica Caswell and Anne Ireland, the six other artists at Towles Court cover a wide range of styles and disciplines: n Susan Coyne paints serene coastal scenes that blend emotion, memory and minimalism. n Ellen Kantro uses found materials to build layered, textured pieces with an urban edge. n Terry Martin captures Florida’s natural beauty through watercolors and acrylics. n Phyllis Nathans produces vivid, detailrich watercolors inspired by the natural world. n Helen Rosenkranz paints abstract oil works that play with light, color, and emotion. n Jan Bullard, an interior designer, blends elegance and creativity in both spaces and furnishings.

Each artist brings something unique to the mélange.

“We have a variety of painting styles, eclectic jewelry, and each artist has a story,” says Caswell. “Visitors find connections with us as people as well as with our work.”

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

Funnyman Will Leura shows a serious side in ‘Entangled’

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Will Leura and Maria Schaedler-Leura are co-executive directors of Lifeline Productions.

The autobiographical show is the sophomore effort of Lifeline Productions.

MONICA ROMAN GAGNIER ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

W

hen Sarasota theater patrons hear the name Will Leura, they’re likely to think of humor and improvisation.

Rightly so. For a decade, ending in December 2024, Leura was the director of improvisation at Florida Studio Theatre, where he was in charge of programming and education for FST Improv as well as organizing the wildly successful Sarasota Improv Festival, which comes to town each July.

But one of Sarasota’s prominent funnymen is taking a serious turn for his show “Entangled,” which runs May 15-25 at FSU Center for the Performing Arts. The show is the second production of Lifeline Productions, which Leura and his wife, Maria Schaedler-Leura, recently joined as co-executive directors.

Best known for its debut production, “Clowns Like Me,” a one-man show starring Sarasota actor Scott Ehrenpreis dealing with his mental health struggles in a humorous fashion, Lifeline is dedicated to highlighting the healing benefits of the arts.

When Lifeline founder and executive producer Joel Ehrenpreis heard that Leura was leaving FST last year, he approached him about the possibility of doing a show on the mental health benefits of improv.

The two initially met about eight years ago, they said in a video interview, when Ehrenpreis took an improv class with Leura at FST. Ehrenpreis, a former marketing executive, formed a friendship with Leura based on discussions about how humor and improv can be used to improve interaction in the business world.

But when Ehrenpreis and Leura sat down to talk about a one-man show, the improv expert revealed lots of serious, challenging episodes from his past. “As we started the process of developing our next show, Will reflected on traumatic stories,” Ehrenpreis says. “I said, ‘Time out.

This is about you and your story.’ I was intrigued. So we ended up shifting gears, like you do in improv.”

Without revealing too much of the story of “Entangled,” the show is

Courtesy images

Lifeline Productions founder Joel Ehrenpreis is executive producer of Will Leura’s show “Entangled.”

based on Leura’s life, which begins in Chicago and moves to Boston. “My upbringing wasn’t exactly a storybook upbringing,” Leura says. “My parents had a very severe divorce when I was 8 years old. Later on, a couple of my close friends died by suicide, which is why I went to Boston.”

Although Leura is a skilled performer and administrator, he needed help fleshing out his show. “In the first couple versions of script, it was like a TED talk about improv, but then during rehearsals, stories were coming up. That’s when we decided to go to Jason,” he says.

The aforementioned Jason is director/playwright Jason Cannon. An FST veteran, Cannon wrote the script for “Clowns Like Me” after spending hours with Ehrenpreis, listening to stories about the actor’s lifetime battle with OCD, bipolar disorder, social anxiety and more.

Until Ehrenpreis bared his soul, most Sarasota theatergoers weren’t aware of his mental health journey, since his behavioral issues weren’t apparent in his performances. He was most recently on stage in Sarasota Jewish Theatre’s “Lost in Yonkers” and has appeared in such FST productions “The Lehman Trilogy” and “Network.”

Cannon is skilled at taking raw material and turning it into a finished script ready for the stage. According to Leura and Joel Ehrenpreis, Cannon was able to work the same magic as a creative consultant for “Entangled” that he did as a writer for “Clowns Like Me.” A ONE-MAN SHOW GETS A SECOND PLAYER

During the workshop process when he was polishing his script, Leura met with Cannon one or two times a week over several months. Cannon brought in different actors for Leura to play his ideas off of. Originally,

Image courtesy of Sorcha Augustine

Leura envisioned “Entangled” as a one-man show, but after working with Cannon, he decided to change direction.

“We added a second character,” Leura says. “Jason would describe the character as a wild man.”

Freud might call him Leura’s id, the aspect of his character that is kept in check by the practical ego and the superego, considered one’s conscience.

Reliving some of his most harrowing experience was healing, Leura says, but it wasn’t easy. “It was like going to therapy,” he says. “I was getting bombarded by questions by four different people. There were a lot of rehearsals where I was crying.”

It takes a lot of courage to remove one’s professional mask and reveal real-life trauma on stage, even within the artistic confines of a script and a stage. For producer Ehrenpreis, one of the attractions about Leura’s story is that it provided the opportunity to confront the stigma of mental health problems in the Latin American community.

It’s always dangerous to make sweeping generations about various ethnic groups, but the conventional wisdom is that the tradition of machismo in Latin cultures makes it hard for men to admit weakness and

let their loved ones know when they need help.

The key to making a play interesting to audiences of all backgrounds is to have a story “that resonates with everybody,” says Maria SchaedlerLeura, Will Leura’s wife. “A successful piece of art must be personal and universal at the same time.”

This is a message that the couple conveys constantly through Atomica Arts, the nonprofit they founded that offers workshops, bilingual programs and other initiatives to promote the arts and health.

But in an artistic world where taboos about addiction, sexuality, gender identity, neurodivergence are increasingly confronted on stage, what is the secret sauce that an identity-based play needs to connect with broader audiences?

As a producer who got an encore performance for “Clowns Like Me” in Sarasota as well as a New York run, Joel Ehrenpreis has a clear idea about the ingredients. Based on what he learned with “Clowns Like Me,” the producer says a production must be “entertaining, hopeful, humorous and gut-punching.”

“We think we’ve got that with ‘Entangled,’” he adds.

Now, it’s up to Sarasota audiences to decide.

IF YOU GO

‘ENTANGLED’ When: May 15-25 Where: the Jane B. Cook Theatre, FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail Tickets: $30 Info: Visit LifelineProductionsInc.org.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

Studio Theatre Improv Troupe.

A team of four experienced improvisers deliver a mix of short form, long form and musical improv in a mashup of styles and techniques. Weekends through May 30.

MONDAY ‘CONJURING THE SPIRIT WORLD: ART, MAGIC AND MEDIUMS’ 10 a.m. at the John and Mable Ringling Art Museum, 5401 Bay Shore Road Free with $25 admission; Mondays free Visit Ringling.org.

THIS WEEK THURSDAY

JAZZ THURSDAY AT SAM 5:30 p.m. at Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail $25 Visit SarasotaArtMuseum.org.

Darcie Allen and the Five Points Quintet perform on the Marcy & Michael Klein Plaza at Sarasota Art Museum in a program sponsored by Jazz Club of Sarasota. The evening features extended hours in the galleries, bistro and museum shop.

BERMUDA MAVERICKS 7 p.m. at McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre, 1923 Ringling Blvd. $26 Visit McCurdysComedyTheatre.com.

It’s not so often that McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre co-founder Les McCurdy takes the stage. This time, he’s half of the Bermuda Mavericks.

The other half is Ken Sons. Together these brothers from different mothers deliver the right amount of stand-up comedy and improv. Runs through May 10.

‘EVITA’ 7:30 p.m. at Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 Third Ave. W., Bradenton $37 Visit ManateePerforming ArtsCenter. com.

Don’t cry for the Manatee Players!

They’ve enjoyed the talents of Rick Kerby as their producing artistic director for more than two decades.

For their last production of the season, the community theater presents the musical “Evita,” about the former first lady of Argentina.

Runs through May 11.

‘BAD JEWS’ 7:30 p.m. at The Sarasota Players, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 1130 $30-$42 Visit SarasotaJewishTheatre.com.

Written by Joshua Harmon, this often-humorous drama follows three adult cousins as they compete to own an heirloom hidden by their grandfather during the Holocaust.

Runs through May 11.

‘SYNCOPATED AVENUE’ 7:30 p.m. at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N. Orange Ave. $22-$52 Visit WestcoastBlackTheatre.org.

With “Syncopated Avenue,” created, adapted and directed by WBTT founder and Artistic Director Nate Jacobs, the company is producing its first tap musical, which explores the history of the art form. Runs through May 25.

‘JERSEY BOYS’ 8 p.m. at FST’s Gompertz Theatre, 1265 First St. $49-$69 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

Winner of both the Tony and Olivier awards, “Jersey Boys” tells the true story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, from their humble beginnings in the Garden State to their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This isn’t a musical revue; it’s a full-fledged musical directed by Ben Liebert. Runs through May 25.

FRIDAY PINKY’S PLAYERS 7:30 p.m. at Venice Theatre’s Raymond Center, 140 Tampa Ave. W. $26 Visit VeniceTheatre.org.

In its 75th season, Venice Theatre once again demonstrates its commitment to keeping community theater accessible. This year’s production by Pinky’s Players, the theater’s program featuring adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, is “(Welcome to) Hotel Pink Flamingo.” Runs through May 11.

SATURDAY TREE FORT PRODUCTIONS CLUBHOUSE CONCERT 2 p.m. at Tree Fort Productions, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail $25 Visit TreeFortProductionsProjects. com.

The gang’s sure to all be here

Florida Studio Theatre’s production of “Jersey Boys” runs through May 25 at FST’s Gompertz Theatre.

Courtesy images

for this clubhouse concert from Katherine Michelle Tanner’s Tree Fort Productions. In this program, members of Tree Fort’s Advanced Acting Class will demonstrate their stage chops with monologues, a play reading and Broadway songs.

13TH ANNUAL STUDENT TENMINUTE PLAYWRITING FESTIVAL 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at the Jane B. Cook Theatre, FSU Center for the Performing Arts $30 Visit TheatreOdyssey.org.

Theatre Odyssey’s Thirteenth Annual Student Ten-Minute Playwriting Festival presents the eight plays selected by professional readers and written by area high school students from grades nine through 12 (or homeschooled equivalent). The winner of the best play award will receive the Verna Safran Prize — a $1,000 cash scholarship. Author of the runnerup play will receive a $500 cash scholarship, and the remaining authors will receive $100 cash scholarships. Continues May 11.

VIC & CARO 7:30 p.m. at Fogartyville, 525 Kumquat Court $25 nonmembers; $20 members; $13 students Visit WSLR.org.

Go on the trail of things that go bump in the night with this fascinating interactive exhibition, which follows the growth of Spiritualism in the mid-19th century from its roots in dining room seances to traveling shows featuring magicians and mediums.

‘JAGDEN UND FORMEN’ 7:30 p.m. May 12 at the Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave. $30 Visit ENSRQ.org.

George Nickson and Samantha Bennett’s contemporary classical music group ensembleNew SRQ closes its ninth season with Wolfgang Rihm’s “Jagden und Formen,” an ambitious work for 25 musicians. At a post-concert reception in the Opera House courtyard, concertgoers can meet the musicians and learn about the 10th anniversary lineup.

AN EVENING WITH JAMES T. LANE 7:30 p.m. at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N. Orange Ave. $37 Visit WestcoastBlackTheatreTroupe. org.

James T. Lane, who has just come from Broadway to star in Westcoast Black TheatreTroupe’s world premiere tap musical, “Syncopated Avenue,” will discuss his creative journey. Known as a “triple threat” because of his talents as a singer, dancer and actor, Lane will talk about his roots in Philadelphia, where he began studying tap at the age of 6, and the twists and turns of a career path that took him to the Great White Way.

Hear what the voice of young country sounds like when Nashville twentysomethings Victor Futardo and Carolina Schott return to Sarasota and take the stage at Fogartyville, the funky listening room in the Rosemary District.

Their duo, Vic & Caro, brings together Furtado’s prize-winning clawhammer banjo with Schott’s singer/songwriter talents.

COMEDY ROULETTE 8:30 p.m. at Florida Studio Theatre’s Bowne’s Lab, 1265 First St. $15-$18 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

Looking to have fun on a Saturday night in Sarasota without breaking the bank?

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DON’T MISS ‘ODE TO JOY’ Led by Artistic Director Joseph Caulkins, Key Josephcloses its Chorale Caulkins ruby 40th anniversary season with a gift to young people who love music.

This all-Beethoven performance by the symphonic chorus is free for students under 18 and only $10 for college students. The program features the finale to Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, his Choral Fantasy and the rarely performed “Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage.” The concert will be followed by a Joyful Jubilee party to mark its anniversary.

Tickets for that event are $125.

IF YOU GO When: 4 p.m. Saturday May 10 Where: Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave. Tickets: $20-$55; free for students under 18; $10 for college students Info: Visit KeyChorale. org.

OUR PICK

SONGS FROM THE SAND: AN EVENING OF HERMITAGE MUSIC Hermitage Artist Retreat Artistic Director and CEO Andy Sandberg will host an evening of songs featuring music from Hermitage Fellows who have gone on to become Tony Award-winning Broadway musical writers like Jeanine Tesori, Michael R. Jackson and Doug Wright, as well artists and composers evolving the form, such as Adam Gwon, Zoe Sarnak, Rona Siddiqui and more.

IF YOU GO When: 6 p.m. Monday, May 12 Where: Waterside Place Pavilion, 7500 Island Cove Terrace, Lakewood Ranch Tickets: Free with $5 registration fee Info: Visit HermitageArtistRetreat. org.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

BLACK TIE Sports Center anchor and gala emcee Kevin Negandhi, UF basketball coach Todd Golden, Dick Vitale, ESPN’s Hannah Storm, former WNBA player Nancy Lieberman, UConn head coach Dan Hurley and V Foundation CEO Shane Jacobson

Peter and Andraya Ticola’s son was honored at the 20th Annual Dick Vitale Gala. Lucas, age 6, is part of Dick’s AllCourageous Team and a student at Southside Elementary School. He is battling DIPG, a rare, aggressive, fast-growing brain tumor.

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Friday, May 2, at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota Benefiting V Foundation’s Dick Vitale Pediatric Cancer Research Fund Sarasota’s own Tricia Ward with her husband, former professional basketball player Jerod Ward

Photos by Janet Combs

Lorraine Vitale is photographed with Arkansas head basketball coach John Calipari.

UConn’s women’s basketball guards Azzi Fudd and Caroline Ducharne (right) are introduced to sports anchor Steven Hieneman and former Gators star N’Jhari Jackson at the VIP event held before dinner.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

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MAY 8, 2025

YOUR NEIGHBORS THE SEVEN HABITS OF HAPPY KIDS

Layla Vaughn and Aureliano Mora are Student Council members at McNeal Elementary who acted as announcers for the leadership day event.

■ Be Proactive ■ Begin with the End in Mind ■ Put First Things First ■ Think Win-Win ■ Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood ■ Synergize ■ Sharpen the Saw

Students lead the way MADISON BIERL STAFF WRITER

L

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eader in Me is an international program designed to nurture leadership in students. Gilbert W. McNeal Elementary School has been a certified Leader In Me Lighthouse School for two years.

The main goal is to implement leadership skills throughout the school day regularly, and not just through clubs and extracurricular activities, but through everyday interactions.

“It rests on the belief that everybody, every single person, has the potential to lead,” Principal Sheila Waid said. “We can develop those leadership skills to help them not only improve their academic performance but also just change the whole school culture in a positive way.”

The program for children is based on Stephen Covey’s groundbreaking book “Seven Habits of Highly Effective People” but has been altered to “The Seven Habits of Healthy Kids” for Leader In Me. “It’s kind of a ripple effect because when you do something good, it just keeps on going,” Waid said.

The seven habits are “Be Proactive,” “Begin with the End in Mind,” “Put First Things First,” “Think WinWin,” “Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood,” “Synergize” and “Sharpen the Saw.” The first habit is “Be Proactive” and the point is to make good decisions even when no one is watching.

“I do my homework and chores

Photos by Madison Bierl

McNeal Elementary students take Leader in Me habits to heart at school and everywhere else.

without my mom needing to tell me,” said Aureliano Mora, Student Council treasurer. “At school, I try to stay on task whenever the teacher tells us to do something.”

The second habit is “Begin with the End in Mind” which is focused on goal-setting. Hannah Marco is a third grader involved in chorus and youth Kiwanis group, which focuses on community service. She has the goal of spreading kindness when she grows up through creating a new medicine for cancer patients.

The third habit is to “Put First Things First” and save fun things until after the necessary work is done. Marco said she likes to get her

homework done before she watches television.

The fourth habit is “Think WinWin” which is balancing what you want with the wants of others. Hudson Clark, a fifth grader involved in Safety Patrol, said “Think Win-Win” is his favorite because both parties involved can get what they want.

Marco gave a hypothetical example of a “Think Win-Win” situation.

She said if she wanted to swing on a swing at recess and a friend wanted to play ball, they would split their recess time to do both.

The fifth habit is “Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood” which is to listen before speaking.

Hannah Marco and Alicia Ranasinghe are members of K-Kids, a service projectbased club.

Hadley McIntosh is a fifth grade student involved with the News Crew.

“Even if I don’t like what someone else is saying, I need to listen to them,” McIntosh said.

The sixth habit is “Synergize” which revolves around teamwork and seeking ideas from others. It also involves valuing other people’s strengths and learning from them.

Fifth grader Layla Vaughn described herself as a loud leader and an extrovert, and credits Lora Sevarino, the school’s media specialist and Leader In Me Lighthouse coordinator, for the leader she has become.

“She’s very responsible, and she knows what to do and she’s going to get it done,” Vaughn said. “I think I took that from her.”

Vaughn is involved in leadership clubs, including Safety Patrol, Student Council and Media Managers.

She said her favorite habit is the seventh, “Sharpen the Saw.” “I really like balance. I try to eat healthy food and I like exercising,” Vaughn said.

McNeal Elementary held a leadership day to showcase all the habits and the work they do to grow leadership skills last month.

“I am not the one leading the event, my students are,” Waid said. “They get up first and welcome everyone, they say what we’re doing today.”

Vaughn and Mora led the program, which showcased the Seven Habits of Happy Kids for the school’s business partners and board members.

“I think I have good emotion, and I speak well in front of an audience,” Vaughn said.

It impresses Sevarino how easily the kids can speak in public.

“It’s just so evident that it’s intertwined with the whole philosophy of what the seven habits is all about,” Sevarino said.

The kindergarten students led the national anthem and sang the song “Seven Habits of Healthy Kids.”

Amanda Bertrand’s class performed “Habit Eight — Find Your Voice” and the chorus sang “We All Need Peace.”

The Student Council members took the visitors on tours of the building, with presentation boards and students positioned around the building.

“They start to see how what they do impacts not just within the school, but it impacts the community, and it allows them to see that they can make a difference,” Sevarino said.

“It’s not just what we’re doing here in the school, it’s in the community, and it’s around the nation.”

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

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elly Gonzalez and her 10-year-old son, Andrew Gonzalez, who has dyslexia, drive daily 57 miles each way from Lithia to attend the Sea of Strengths Academy, a private school in Lakewood Ranch that focuses on helping children with dyslexia and other learning disabilities.

Gonzalez has attended since 2023, and his mother said he could not read at all when he started and can now read fluently out loud.

“I love attending school at Sea of Strengths,” said Andrew Gonzalez. “I am proud that I had straight A’s last report card.”

Kelly Gonzalez started volunteering and when she noticed the playground was deteriorating, she researched how to apply for grants and began in early 2024.

“I wrote probably 30 (applications) and by the end of the school year, nothing came of it,” Gonzalez said. “I was feeling a little defeated.”

But in August, Gonzalez got a phone call that they had received a grant for $8,700 from the Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation.

“It’s a huge win for the school, as the school doesn’t have the support that the larger schools do with the finances, so I was really proud that we accomplished that,” she said.

A total of $9,900 was spent, including money from the grant, and $1,200 came in donations from parents at the school who chose to replace other needed or wanted items, such as picnic tables, pressure washers and a tug-of-war rope.

“These kids, for many years to come, will be able to enjoy this playground because of the people in the community that donated to the foundation to make this happen,” said Kate Mulligan, executive director of the Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation.

John Hettler, principal and founder of SOSA, said the timing couldn’t have been better. After Hurricane Milton, fencing and sheds needed replacing.

Madison Bierl

SEA OF STRENGTHS SUMMER PROGRAM Sea of Strengths Academy is running a summer program from June 16-July 11. Registration is open to the general public as well as current students. There are different programs offered, including “Core Academic” “Core Plus” and “Intensive.”

Hettler encourages anyone interested in the academy to try out the summer program to see if the school is a good fit.

Visit SOSASchool.com.

It wasn’t until after the hurricane that they began the work. There is also a new garden where they are growing tomatoes, onions and cilantro with the goal of making salsa.

Lisa Lawler, a member of the grant committee for the Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation, said they give out a lot of grants but don’t always get to see how the money ultimately helps.

“We get to hear about it but to physically see how excited the kids were to run up there (on the playground) was amazing,” Lawler said.

Kelly Gilliland, chair of the grants committee at the Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation, was also moved by seeing where the money went up close and even said she wanted to cry.

“It feels really good, and it’s the heart of what we do, so to actually see in person how the grant affects these children is huge,” Gilliland said.

John Hettler, principal and founder of SOSA, said he is grateful to the Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation for its generous donation for new playground equipment and necessary repairs.

Executive Director Kate Mulligan and President Mark Clark were among the members of the foundation present for the ribboncutting.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

3B

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Steve Arvey sings the blues at Jiggs Landing

J

iggs Landing Outpost offers nightly live music in May, but Thursday nights are reserved for blues fans.

Steve Arvey, a musician from Chicago, plays the blues on every type of guitar imaginable. Detroit’s Miguel Primero backs him up on the harmonica.

Arvey started the Sarasota Cigar Box Guitar Festival 11 years ago and has hosted others around the world. Arvey will be on tour in Europe this summer.

His merchandiser, Gigi Wiegman, was selling shirts and cigar-box guitars at the show. She said a guitar can be made out of pretty much anything.

Mick Lutz learned to make cigar box guitars during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lutz spent 39 years working for Manatee County in the Public Works department. Now retired, he started his own business called Mick’s Licks. He said a cereal box is ideal, but he can turn a jewelry box or any other kind of box into a guitar.

Since paddles make great guitars, too, Lutz plans to experiment with shovels.

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Braden Woods’ Sue and Ron Clark enjoy the music with Bradenton’s Steve Moore.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

5B

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YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

Lesley Dwyer

Bradenton’s 7-year-old Ensley Rondenne learns archery at Rye Preserve on May 3.

Young archers take aim at Rye Preserve

ARE YOUR

Investments on Track?

Spots are still available for summer camp; monthly classes will resume in September.

LESLEY DWYER STAFF WRITER

Let’s Take a Closer Look

T

he last time 8-year-old Maya Christian attended Manatee County’s archery class, she could only watch because she was just under the age limit.

Only kids ages 6-16 can participate in the monthly archery program at Rye Preserve.

Christian returned to the preserve May 3 for the last class of the season and took her best shots at the targets.

She lost a couple arrows to the grass, but that’s not uncommon when first learning.

The class is provided through a partnership between the county and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. FWC provides the equipment; Manatee County provides the instructors.

Right now, the program is gearing up for summer camp, which will be offered in June. Spots are still available.

Monthly classes are offered from September to May on the first Saturday of the month. There are two beginner sessions and one advanced class.

Instructor Coral Bass said participating in the advanced class is based on skill, not age. Some kids as young as 7 years old can move up.

The summer camp welcomes all skill levels, as long as the campers are ages 9-12.

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ARCHERY CAMP The county offers two weeks of archery camp each summer at Rye Preserve for campers ages 9-12. The second session is full, but there are spots available in the first session from June 16-20. The camp runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and costs $175 per camper. Visit MyManatee.org.

Beginners are introduced to the equipment and provided basic instructions. For more advanced archers, the focus is on refining their skills.

Some of the refinement comes from playing games.

Bass likes playing a version of Battleship with the young archers.

Depending on where your arrows land, you can sink another archer’s ship.

The range can only accommodate five archers at a time, which limits the classes to 10 kids each and causes a fairly regular waiting list.

Amber Rondenne’s son Kolton attended the camp last summer and brings him and his younger siblings to the monthly classes when they can get spots.

“If you’re not on that 8 o’clock email right away, you don’t get in,” she said.

The email is Manatee County’s monthly Eco Events Newsletter that lists all the events scheduled in county parks for the upcoming month. Residents can sign up at MyManatee.org.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

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YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

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MOTHER’S DAY FASHION SHOW Runs from noon to 3 p.m. at 1560 Lakefront Drive, Waterside Place.

Waterside Place is presenting a Petals and Poses Mother’s Day celebration with fashion as the centerpiece. Be dazzled by the free event where local boutiques hit the runway in the fashion portion of the event, which begins at 2 p.m. The latest trends will be showcased. Explore a Mother’s Day gift market filled with handmade treasures.

Treat yourself to the Pamper Zone that will feature a mini-HydraFacial Lip Perk, a braid bar, a photo booth and more. The Little Sprouts Kids’ Zone will keep the little ones entertained. For information, go to WatersidePlace.com.

941.955.8882

COMMUNITY THURSDAY, MAY 8 THROUGH SUNDAY, MAY 11

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LIVE MUSIC AT JIGGS LANDING Runs from 4:30-7:30 p.m. each day at Jiggs Landing, 6106 63rd St. E., Bradenton. The live music lineup at Jiggs Landing includes Steve Arvey (Thursday), Soundwave (Friday), Blue Grass Pirates (Saturday) and Jack Berry (Sunday). The Friday and Saturday concerts are $5; the others are free. For information, go to JiggsLanding.com.

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FRIDAY, MAY 9

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MOVIE IN THE PARK Runs from 7-9 p.m. at Waterside Park, 7301 Island Cove Terrace, Lakewood Ranch. This month’s free movie series, hosted by Grace Community Church, offers “Despicable Me 4.” The first 115 people will receive a free Pamz Pizza Conez.

Seating is available first-come, first-served. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs. Concessions are available.

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MUSIC AT THE PLAZA Runs from 6-9 p.m. each evening at Waterside Place, 1561 Lakefront Drive, Lakewood Ranch. Singer/ songwriter (name) performs for the Waterside Place crowd Friday, while singer/songwriter Danielle Mohr

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DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL Begins at 8 a.m. at Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota. Nathan Benderson Park hosts the annual International Dragon Boat Festival that matches both competitive and recreational teams. For information, go to NathanBendersonPark.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 10 AND SUNDAY, MAY 11

MUSIC AT THE LODGE Runs 6-9 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 3 p.m. on Sunday at Linger Lodge, 7205 85th St. Court E., Bradenton.

Linger Lodge’s live music schedule includes the Schmitz Brothers on Saturday and Steve Cherubino on Sunday.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 14

RANCH NITE WEDNESDAY Runs from 6-9 p.m. at Waterside Place. Ranch Nite Wednesday features food trucks, dessert trucks, live music, weekly programing, outdoor bars and a recreational cornhole league. No coolers or outside food or beverages. Go to Waterside. com for information.

CASINO ROYALE NIGHT Begins at 5 p.m. at Gold Coast Eagle Distributing, 7051 Wireless Court, Lakewood Ranch. The Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation is hosting a James Bond-style casino night. Tickets are $75 and include $500 in play money, drinks, hors d’oeuvres and prizes. For information, go to LWRCF.org or call 2086799.

FRIDAY, MAY 16

GOLF BENEFIT Begins at 8:30 a.m. with a shotgun start at Rosedale Golf and Country Club, 5100 87th St. E., Lakewood Ranch. Meals on Wheels Plus of Manatee is hosting the Drive Away Hunger Golf Classic. Proceeds help children, families and seniors in need in Manatee County. The fee of $150 per golfer includes the scramble tournament, green fees, cart, driving range balls, food, beverages and prizes. Go to MealsOnWheelsPlus.org for information or to sign up.

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YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

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On qualifying purchases of $1,000+ or more made with your CareCredit credit card through the end of the month. Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date if the promotional balance is not paid in full within the promotional period. Minimum Monthly Payments required. * Certain types of hearing loss may require a hearing instrument model that is not appropriate for the trial. Hearing evaluation required. See clinic for details. Only available for selected hearing instruments. 1Patient will receive $100 gift card upon completion of hearing instrument trial. Not all models are suitable for a free trial (e.g., custom-fitted models such as CIC, IIC, and Virto Black). Complimentary hearing evaluation required. Must have a tested hearing loss. Open to adults 18+ years and older. One gift card per customer, per year. Not valid with managed care or state insurance plans. No cash alternative. Must provide a valid email address for gift card redemption. Please allow 2-4 weeks for delivery of the gift card. 2Buy one Phonak Audéo Sphere™ Infinio 70 or 90 level hearing aid at our list price and get another of the same make & model 50% off. Discount is based on binaural purchase.

This limited-time offer may not be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion. New orders only. Private pay only (not combinable with insurance or network). Not available on all levels of technology. 3On in-store purchases of $200+ in with the CareCredit credit card through the end of the month. Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date if the promotional purchase is not paid in full within 24 months. Minimum monthly payments required. Subject to credit approval. Offers expire 05/31/25 SL-AT250429_115350^_01

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YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

Lakewood Ranch residents Stephanie Almasy and her 9-year-old son, Andrew, came out to enjoy the blues music.

Andrew enjoys dancing and attempted to do the moonwalk like Michael Jackson, but claimed it is impossible.

Kevin O’Connor is lead vocalist of Bluestar and enjoys playing in a band with other musicians, feeling the rhythm of the music together.

Jerry and Carol Wood dance up a storm in the middle of Main Street while the music played and the rest of Music on Main took place around them.

Photos by Madison Bierl

Main Street comes alive for Music on Main

A

s the band Bluestar played calm blues tunes, the street was converted into one couple’s personal dance floor.

Lakewood Ranch residents Jerry and Carol Wood have been married for 56 years, and when they heard the music, they couldn’t shy away from dancing, even though no one else was at the time.

“If you have a good time, forget what people think,” Jerry Wood said. “They’ll be jealous, at least the wives will.”

Along with the live music, there was also a kids’ zone, where inflatable games were set up including skee-ball, basketball and a baseball game called Batter Up. Lakewood Ranch resident Olivier Cottalorda and his 8-year-old son, Alexandre

Cottalorda, tried out about every game. In Alexandre’s free time, he plays soccer and tennis. While in the kids’ zone, he practiced his basketball and baseball skills.

Denver, Colorado, resident Trish Slevin, along with her 2-year-old daughter, Cecilia Pais, visited friends in Sarasota for the weekend and couldn’t pass up the kids’ zone. Sarasota resident Kavita Tisdale and Slevin met in college and have stayed in touch for the past 15 years. They both have 2-year-olds. Tisdale has a daughter, Alia Tisdale, who also is 2.

“We’re raising strong independent women — as you could see, they’re amazing at basketball,” said Kavita Tisdale.

— MADISON BIERL

Wyatt Parsons, a 1-year-old Bradenton resident, had more fun catching balls as they rolled down than throwing a ball into the game.

Lakewood Ranch resident Oliver Cottalorda gives advice to his 8-year-old son, Alexandre Cottalorda, on how to shoot.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

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Is Your Dog Carrying Extra Weight?

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By Kyle Baker, Senior Pet Food Nutritionist Tip: Treats count! Keep them under 20% of total daily calories.

Alongside a healthy diet, exercise and enrichment make a big difference, too. Try puzzle feeders, scent games, or longer walks to keep your dog active and engaged.

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You can estimate your dog’s daily caloric intake with this formula: Step 1: Take your dog’s ideal weight (in pounds).

Step 2: Divide that number by 2.2 to convert it to kilograms.

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Step 4: Add 70 to that number.

Kyle Baker, Senior Pet Food Nutritionist at DOGPerfect, is passionate about empowering pet parents to transform their pets’ lives through the right food, supplements, and treats.

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For example, if your dog’s ideal weight is 50 pounds: 50 ÷ 2.2 = 22.7 kg 681 + 70 = 751 kcal/day

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22.7 × 30 = 681

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WAY DOWN SOUTH: Lorna Hendrickson took a copy of the East County Observer to Roatan, Honduras.

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

BRADENTON 2828 Riverview Boulevard 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 5,680 Sq. Ft. Kathy Valente 941-685-6767 A4640931 $5,700,000

BRADENTON 4713 Mainsail Drive 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 3,813 Sq. Ft. Christopher Van Vliet & Jamie Van Vliet 941-993-7087 A4616555 $1,799,900

LAKEWOOD RANCH 6722 Oakmont Way 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 4,996 Sq. Ft. Nicole Ryskamp 941-807-1766 A4613941 $1,599,000

BRADENTON 569 Mast Drive 4 Beds 3 Baths 2,731 Sq. Ft. Sandi Dietrich 941-704-0697 A4650193 $1,500,000

BRADENTON 79 Tidy Island Boulevard 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 3,046 Sq. Ft. Adam Cuffaro 941-812-0791 A4649348 $1,499,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 22354 Panther Loop 5 Beds 3 Baths 3,319 Sq. Ft. Denise Gagne 941-400-6358 A4644931 $1,425,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 17916 Northwood Place 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,985 Sq. Ft. Laura Naese 941-350-3657 A4645509 $1,310,000

BRADENTON 7301 221st Street E 2 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,872 Sq. Ft. Ray Rausa 941-228-7614 A4625350 $1,199,000

BRADENTON 9734 Carnoustie Place 3 Beds 3/2 Baths 3,151 Sq. Ft. Chris Baylis 941-735-4713 A4649670 $1,175,000

BRADENTON 1016 91st Street NW 4 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,138 Sq. Ft. Kathy Valente 941-685-6767 A4649371 $975,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 7425 Divot Loop 3 Beds 2 Baths 2,376 Sq. Ft. Stacy Haas 941-587-4359 A4649835 $845,000

BRADENTON 16804 Savory Mist Circle 4 Beds 3 Baths 2,648 Sq. Ft. Noelle Reynolds 941-320-4855 A4649050 $825,000

BRADENTON 5206 18th Avenue E 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,913 Sq. Ft. Erica Thomas 941-799-9365 A4649154 $825,000

BRADENTON 3628 Scrub Creek Run 6 Beds 4/1 Baths 3,899 Sq. Ft. Stephanie Annable 941-376-4100 A4636507 $800,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 12121 Thornhill Court 3 Beds 2 Baths 2,116 Sq. Ft. Garry Neeves 941-667-0653 A4625966 $799,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 7572 Viola Loop 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,867 Sq. Ft. Barbara A Milian, PA 941-504-0660 A4624935 $799,000

BRADENTON 6315 2nd Avenue NW 4 Beds 2 Baths 1,830 Sq. Ft. Erica Thomas 941-799-9365 A4650319 $715,000

BRADENTON 5703 52nd Avenue W 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,720 Sq. Ft. Leah Secondo 941-545-4430 A4639012 $579,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 6512 Moorings Point Circle 201 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,344 Sq. Ft. Heidi Cox 941-685-1529 A4643199 $499,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 6412 Golden Eye Glen 3 Beds 2 Baths 2,034 Sq. Ft. Robert Krasow 617-840-1181 A4649284 $449,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 6915 Dorset Court 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,458 Sq. Ft. Ray Rausa 941-228-7614 A4649751 $445,500

BRADENTON 604 68th Avenue Drive W 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,530 Sq. Ft. Sheryl & Mark Vanduren 720-384-4884 A4641243 $415,000

BRADENTON 918 River Basin Court 101A 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,156 Sq. Ft. Sheryl Vanduren 720-384-4884 A4629994 $408,000

BRADENTON 623 Estuary Drive 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,278 Sq. Ft. Jinny Scherer 941-705-0877 A4649834 $399,900

LAKEWOOD RANCH 8943 White Sage Loop 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,064 Sq. Ft. Chris Baylis 941-735-4713 A4649748 $235,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 16009 Clearlake Avenue 4 Beds 4 Baths 4,053 Sq. Ft. Mark Boehmig 941-807-6936 A4639396 $2,879,000

BRADENTON 556 Regatta Way 4 Beds 4 Baths 4,241 Sq. Ft. Debbie Vogler 941-705-3328 A4643424 $2,500,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 13635 Legends Walk Terrace 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 4,581 Sq. Ft. Mary Pat Pihl 941-932-3065 A4644423 $2,490,000

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YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

RESEARCH EDITOR

A

Country Club Village home on Westchester Circle tops the week’s sales at $4.45 million. Miklos Berente and Nora Zita Berente, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their home at 6923 Westchester Circle to Timothy Jay Rivas and Diane Marie Rivas, of Lakewood Ranch, for $4.45 million. Built in 2003, it has five bedrooms, five-and-a-half baths, a pool and 6,010 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.9 million in 2021.

COUNTRY CLUB VILLAGE

Jeffrey Scott Millea and Krista Millea, of Bradenton, sold their home at 12411 Highfield Circle to Timothy Garrison, of Lakewood Ranch, for $4 million. Built in 2021, it has six bedrooms, five baths, a pool and 6,069 square feet of living area.

7146 Westhill Court to David and Carrie Ford-Coates, of Lakewood Ranch, for $515,000. Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,987 square feet of living area. It sold for $575,000 in 2024.

LINKS AT PALM-AIRE

Douglas Woodworth and Richard Mahaffy II, trustees, of Northampton, Massachusetts, sold the home at 7566 Links Court to Robert Steven Wilkinson and Laura Wilkinson, of Warwick, Rhode Island, for $1,172,500. Built in 1989, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,748 square feet of living area. It sold for $475,000 in 2016.

AZARIO ESPLANADE

Mike Emsley and Amy Jasperson, of Osterville, Massachusetts, sold their home at 4625 Trento Place to Terence and Tracey Murphy, of Bradenton, for $1.05 million. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 3,025 square feet of living area. It sold for $647,500 in 2020.

LAKEWOOD NATIONAL GOLF CLUB

Michael Richard Ryan and Michelle Louise Ryan sold their home at 5752 Cheech Glen to James Joyce and Kim Rugg, of Bradenton, for $1.05 million. Built in 2022, it has four bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,248 square feet of living area. It sold for $818,200 in 2022.

Eric and Monaca Onstad, of Sarasota, sold their home at 6557 The Masters Ave. to Thomas and Danielle Basch, of Ellicott City, Maryland, for $980,000. Built in 1999, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,629 square feet of living area. It sold for $545,000 in 2020.

James and Kathleen Coseo sold their home at 5925 Cessna Run to 5925 Cessna Run LLC for $989,000.

Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,224 square feet of living area. It sold for $429,000 in 2017.

Paul and Jean Gustafson, of Ipswich, Massachusetts, sold their home at 7167 Whitemarsh Circle to Fat Sarasota LLC for $815,000.

Built in 2001, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,616 square feet of living area.

David Kember sold his home at 16748 Fourth Ave. N.E. to Haley Marie Haxton and Chad Michael Haxton, of Bradenton, for $1.05 million. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and 3,559 square feet of living area. It sold for $875,000 in 2021.

Thomas Willson, trustee, and Lauri Willson, of Carmel, Indiana, sold the home at 7651 Portstewart Drive to Kelly and Daniel Timco, of Lakewood Ranch, for $775,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,634 square feet of living area. It sold for $500,000 in 2009.

LAKE CLUB

RYE WILDERNESS ESTATES

ARBOR GRANDE

Aaron Greer and Kelly Jennelle Greer, of Bradenton, sold their home at 11815 Perennial Place to Holly Powell, of Bradenton, for $918,000. Built in 2020, it has six bedrooms, four-and-a-half baths, a pool and 3,899 square feet of living area. It sold for $489,000 in 2020.

Rod and Ashley Stuckey, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their home at 8016 Bowspirit Way to Daniel and Anna Han, of Lakewood Ranch, for $3.64 million. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, four-and-a-half baths, a pool and 4,398 square feet of living area. It sold for $3,375,000 in 2023.

WOODBORNE TERRACE

CONCESSION

SUMMERFIELD VILLAGE

Jean Solarczyk, trustee, of Gaithersburg, Maryland, sold the home at 19423 Beacon Park Place to Valerie Mae Green-Charsky and Stephen Bernard Charsky, of Bradenton, for $2,125,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,471 square feet of living area.

EATON PLACE

Ronald and Rochelle Simon, of Sarasota, sold their home at 7503 Eaton Court to Shirley Eaton, of Chelmsford, Massachusetts, for $1,442,500. Built in 1994, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,880 square feet of living area.

It sold for $785,000 in 2017.

ESPLANADE

MaryAnn Wright, trustee, of Sarasota, sold the home at 13116 Treviso Drive to James Steiker and Lisa Steiker, trustees, of Merion Station, Pennsylvania, for $1.3 million.

Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,051 square feet. It sold for $594,700 in 2016.

COUNTRY CLUB EAST

Michael and Suzanne Ciolli sold their home at 16722 Collingtree Crossing to Robert and Maria Westropp, of Lakewood Ranch, for $1.19 million. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,065 square feet of living area.

Denise Lessard, of Cumberland Center, Maine, sold her home at

APRIL 21-25

Ralph Johnson, of Red Bank, New Jersey, sold the home at 10127 Woodborne Place to John and Francesca Walters, of Bradenton, for $860,000. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,010 square feet of living area.

It sold for $825,000 in 2023.

Francisco Battaglia and Mariel Rovagnati, of Nokomis, sold their home at 11254 Rivers Bluff Circle to John and Erin Gustafsson, of La Plata, Maryland, for $795,000. Built in 2000, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,984 square feet of living area. It sold for $405,000 in 2015.

Courtesy image

A Country Club Village home at 6923 Westchester Circle tops this week’s sales at $4.45 million. Built in 2003, it has five bedrooms, five-and-a-half baths and a pool.

home at 6851 Country Lakes Circle to Raymond Babbitt and Greg Babbitt, of Sarasota, for $680,400.

Built in 1984, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,723 square feet of living area. It sold for $175,000 in 1994.

rooms, two baths, a pool and 2,084 square feet of living area. It sold for $778,800 in 2023.

Thomas Young and Lori Jean Mohr, of Bradenton, sold their home at 16920 Pelham Place to James Sundahl and Mary Kathryn Sundahl, trustees, of Bradenton, for $594,500. Built in 2016, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,830 square feet of living area. It sold for $680,000 in 2023.

GREYHAWK LANDING

Matthew Peter Cutter and Nina Falkner Cutter, of Reno, Nevada, sold their home at 1106 Brambling Court to Derek and Dawn Diaz, of Bradenton, for $629,000. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,105 square feet.

It sold for $650,000 in 2023.

FOX POINTE

George and Patricia Mitchell, of Ontario, Canada, sold their home at 5470 Golf Pointe Drive to James Michael Jorden and Lisa Jorden, of Sarasota, for $699,000. Built in 2002, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,518 square feet of living area. It sold for $375,000 in 2013.

ONLINE See more transactions at YourObserver.com

PALM-AIRE AT SARASOTA

Mitchell Borgida, trustee, sold the

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Robert Wayne Brouillette and Judith Dianne Brouillette, trustees, of Highlands Ranch, Colorado, sold the home at 6543 Rosehill Farm Run to Stephen Buckner and Linda Mara Ragghianti, of Bradenton, for $736,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,287 square feet of living area. It sold for $790,000 in 2022.

STONEYBROOK AT HERITAGE HARBOUR

Mark and Christine Lashinger, of Daniel Island, South Carolina, sold their home at 7731 Camden Harbour Drive to Matthew Metzner and Lisa Chung, of Bradenton, for $719,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,639 square feet of living area. It sold for $680,000 in 2014.

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Melvin and Mary Lenhardt, of Englewood, sold their home at 7766 Summerland Cove to John Timothy Ryan, of Bradenton, for $700,000.

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REAL ESTATE

Country Club Village home sells for $4.45 million

13B

MAY 8, 2025

SPORTS

“ I knew as soon as I broke the school record that it was good enough to go to states.”

— Lakewood Ranch High’s Liam St. John SEE PAGE 16B

FAST

BREAK

Courtesy image

Lakewood Ranch High pitcher Lexi Meneely, pictured last season, held Parrish Community to two runs in the district championship on May 1.

T

he Lakewood Ranch High softball team’s season came to an end in a 2-1 loss to Parrish Community in the Class 6A District-12 championship.

Senior Lexi Meneely allowed two runs on five hits and two walks over 6 2/3 innings with one strikeout. ... The Lakewood Ranch boys track and field team placed 16th out of 32 teams, and the girls team finished 27th out of 29 teams at the Class 4A Region-3 meet on May 3 at Plant City High School. Advancing to the 4A state championships May 9-10 at Visit Jax Track at Hodges Stadium in Jacksonville are: Liam St. John, who placed second in the javelin with a throw of 53.36 meters, Benji Best, who placed fifth in the long jump with a jump of 5.70 meters and the girls 4x800 relay team of Briana Taylor, Savannah Adams, Addison Shear and Avery Stewart, who placed fifth (9:55.53). ... The Out-of-Door Academy boys track and field team placed seventh out of 26 teams and the girls team finished in a tie for 29th out of 31 teams at the Class 1A Region-3 meet on May 3 at Northside Christian in St. Petersburg. The boys 4x800 relay team of Kevin Gyurka, Collin Dillingham, Finn Randall and Cash Murphy ran a 8:14.89 race and placed first. Dillingham placed sixth in the 800 meter run (1:59.19).

Gyurka placed third in the 3,200 meter run (9:32.87) and fourth in the 1,600 meter run (4:29.16). The boys 4x400 relay team of Dillingham, Gyurka, Murphy and Themba Hillary placed eighth (3:35.13). Paxon Hermann placed fourth in the pole vault (3.60 meters). They will all advance to the Class 1A state championships,. ... Lakewood Ranch resident Kevin Roy tied for 15th in the CJ Cup Byron Nelson PGA Tour event.. Former Lakewood Ranch High golfer Danny Walker tied for 25th.

STILL PLAYING PAGE 15B

Photos by Vinnie Portell

Fourth, with goals to go After three runs under Hollway, ODA is armed with seasoned seniors, promising underclassmen.

VINNIE PORTELL STAFF WRITER

W

hen Robert Hollway was hired to lead The Out-ofDoor Academy football team in March 2022, he was given a program in dire need of some hope.

The Thunder were coming off an 0-5 season in which players opted out of playing the final few games.

Winston Crisci, now a rising senior with the team, figured he would have to transfer if he wanted to keep playing. Then, Hollway was hired.

“When I was in eighth grade, I think we had 18 kids on the roster, so we only played four games that year,” he said. “We almost didn’t have a team, so I was like, ‘Where am I going to transfer to, because I want to play football in high school.’

“I remember him coming in for a meeting, and what he said changed everything. We played our first game under him and won 50-0. The whole time I was on the field, I was trying to see if I was awake or not because I couldn’t believe it. I hadn’t won a game since sixth grade.”

Even with that encouraging start, Hollway knew he needed more players. He scoured the campus.

He started with ODA’s state championship baseball team, and by now, he says he’s talked to every athleticlooking student.

Three years into Hollway’s time at ODA, the Thunder are thriving.

ODA has won a Sunshine State Athletic Association state championship (2023), is sending three graduates to play in college, and there’s hope that the best is still yet to come.

Several key players from last year’s 8-1 team are returning for their senior seasons with high expectations.

Much of that potential success hinges on Allen Clark.

The 6-foot, 210-pound Clark carried the ball 214 times for 1,524 yards and 22 touchdowns and contributed 29 tackles as a linebacker.

Aside from Clark, however, there aren’t many players returning with significant offensive stats.

Senior quarterback Josey Rubinstein and senior Carson Fisher, the team’s top receiver, are graduating.

However, that’s given Hollway and offensive coordinator Nate Strawderman a chance to reinvent the offense.

“We’re going to throw the ball this year,” Hollway said. “I think you’re going to see a new team, a more balanced team that spreads the ball out more. With Allen (Clark), we anticipate facing loaded boxes, which gives

ODA football coach Robert Hollway directs rising junior linebacker Jake Beasley through a drill during spring practice. Hollway has led the Thunder to a 23-7 record in three seasons as head coach.

The Out-of-Door Academy football team has made a habit out of setting high expectations just four years removed from not having enough players to finish a season.

RETURNING STAT LEADERS ■ RB Allen Clark — 214 carries for 1,524 yards and 22 touchdowns, 8-of-17 passing for 158 yards, one touchdown, three receptions for nine yards ■ SS/OLB Devin Erdei — 49 tackles (4.5 for loss), two pass breakups, two interceptions, two forced fumbles, four fumble recoveries ■ DB Dylan Walker — 46 tackles (9.0 for loss), five pass breakups, one interception, three forced fumbles, one fumble recovery ■ DE Winston Crisci — 29 tackles (10 for loss), 4.0 sacks, four pass breakups, one fumble recovery

us the opportunity to throw the ball more.”

The Thunder will turn to some of the youngest signal callers in varsity football to revamp their attack.

Bodie Strawn, a rising eighth grader, is a pro-style quarterback who transferred from IMG Academy last year and threw a touchdown pass, and Christian Garzia, a rising ninth grader, is an athletic quarterback.

While the Thunder are excited for offensive possibilities, defense is what gives them confidence.

ODA allowed 12.1 points a game last season — the lowest average in program history — and is returning several playmakers.

Though each of its college-bound seniors, Frankie Clark, Carson Fisher and Marvin Palominos, contributed on defense, many seasoned seniors are back.

Crisci, last year’s sack leader (four), linebackers Heath

DeRusso and Clark and defensive back Dylan Walker are expected to be senior leaders on the defense.

Some up-and-coming players, such as rising-junior Devin Erdei (team-high 49 tackles and two interceptions), rising-sophomore linebacker Beau Tack and rising-sophomore cornerback Kingston Kokoefer have Hollway optimistic.

ODA will see where it stands this spring when it faces Master’s Academy at 7 p.m. on May 15 at home.

“I think this is probably the greatest team we’ve had since I’ve been here, and maybe in team history, so I’m excited to see what we can accomplish,” Crisci said. “We have a lot of dominant seniors. A lot of guys who work well together and have played for the same coach for four years. I think this is the year it all comes together.”

Rising senior Allen Clark is a key returner for ODA football as 1,500yard rusher and a force at linebacker.

YourObserver.com

VINNIE’S VIEW

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

15B

VINNIE PORTELL

Braden River baseball’s playoff run is no accident P layers on the Braden River High baseball team have been playing over the past few weeks as if every game could be their last.

That’s because it could be for many of them.

The Pirates have 12 seniors on their 22-player roster, and that experience and talent has been paying off when it matters most.

Similar to last season, Braden River got off to a slow start, but that was more or less by design.

Coach Greg Creek put together the seventh most difficult schedule among Class 5A teams and frontloaded much of that competition.

That led to a 3-6 record through the team’s first third of the season.

Since then, Braden River (1810) has gone 15-4 and hasn’t lost a game since April 7.

This hot stretch couldn’t have come at a better time, either.

The Pirates won a district championship over Manatee on April 17 and swept Cape Coral Mariner and Manatee in the first two rounds of the 5A Region-3 tournament the past two weeks to advance to the regional finals against Fort Myers from May 7-10.

However, it would be a misrepresentation to say that this success is merely due to a few weeks of good baseball.

CREEK STARTS WITH A REBUILD

When Creek was hired as the Pirates’ coach in the summer of 2022, he had his work cut out for him, but knew he had the pieces to create something special.

Braden River went 19-6 in 2021 but lost a talented senior class that year, and plummeted back down to a 9-17 record in 2022.

Creek steadied the ship with back-to-back .500 seasons, but his teams have never been able to make a postseason impact until this year.

“Probably 15 of these guys I’ve known since they were 10 years old,” said Creek, who has coached

locally for years. “It’s taken a long time and a lot of effort from them and me challenging them every day for those six to eight years that I’ve been around them, and they’ve accepted the challenge. And they don’t want to lose. That’s this group. They don’t like to lose more than they like to win.”

The stats make it plain to see the impact these seniors are having.

Each of the team’s top eight hitters are seniors, led by Nick Curbelo with a .411 batting average, 30 hits and 18 runs in 27 games.

On the mound, senior left-hander Rhys Klein has been the team’s ace while junior right-hander Denzel Diaz and Curbelo, who battled elbow and knee injuries this year, have rounded out the rotation.

Of the team’s 12 seniors, at least four will continue to play at the next level, but that doesn’t make their final stretch of high school baseball any less meaningful.

ONE LAST RIDE

Curbelo has emerged as one of Braden River’s stars, but he’s had to grind through dark days to get to this point.

Two years ago, he transferred to Braden River from Parrish Community for a reset and a fresh start.

“I was going through a struggle the past two years before that, and I knew I would thrive here,” he said. “Mentally, I had given up on myself. I was going through a rut.

In baseball, everyone has their ups and downs and it’s a game where you have to keep your head level no matter what, but I was struggling keeping my head level.”

Curbelo said he found support and a family like atmosphere at Braden River. Moving on from that is inevitable for Curbelo, who is committed to play for State College of Florida next season, but he’s trying to keep his high school career alive as long as he can.

Senior Luke Duffy has been at

BRADEN RIVER BASEBALL’S SENIOR STARS

■ Nick Curbelo: .411 batting average, 18 runs, 30 hits, 11 RBIs, four doubles, two triples, four stolen bases. 24 innings pitched, 2-2 record, 3.21 ERA, 27 strikeouts.

■ Camden Pope: .352 batting average, 18 runs, 25 hits, 15 RBIs, five doubles, two triples, three stolen bases.

■ Rhys Klein: .352 batting average, nine runs, 19 hits, 10 RBIs, two doubles, one triple, five stolen bases. 53 2/3 innings pitched, 6-2 record, 3.13 ERA, 54 strikeouts.

■ Brayden Sands: .325 batting average, 13 runs, 27 hits, 16 RBIs, eight doubles. Seven innings pitched, 2-0 record, 1.00 ERA, 10 strikeouts.

■ Parker Gabbard: .306 batting average, 15 runs, 22 hits, 13 RBIs, five doubles, one triple, two stolen bases.

■ Luke Duffy: .283 batting average, 12 runs, 15 hits, 10 RBIs, four doubles, five stolen bases.

■ Sam Heintz: .257 batting average, seven runs, 17 hits, seven RBIs, four doubles, one triple.

■ Jacoby Cox: .219 batting average, 17 runs, 16 hits, 12 RBIs, five doubles, one triple, four stolen bases.

■ Jakob Adkins: 14 2/3 innings pitched, 2-0 record, 2.39 ERA, 15 strikeouts.

Braden River since his freshman year and didn’t experience a winning season until this year. Those tough losses and early endings to seasons have made Braden River’s hot streak that much more satisfying for him.

“We’ve experienced adversity

Vinnie Portell

Pirates senior Nick Curbelo celebrates scoring the first run of a 9-3 win over Manatee High on May 1 at Braden River High. He was driven home on a triple by senior Camden Pope in the regional semifinal game.

for the last two or three years now,” said Duffy, who will play at Minnesota Post Grad later this year. “Most of these guys have been on varsity for three or four years, and they’ve wanted it. I came up sophomore year and since then we’ve put in the work and grinded out games, and it just hasn’t gone our way. This year, it feels like it is.”

FOUR MORE WINS

When Braden River finished off a two-game sweep of Manatee on May 1, it put itself four wins away from a 5A state championship.

The way the Pirates have played, it’s foolish to count them out.

They’ve won a close, low-scoring game — such as a 1-0 nine-inning win over St. Petersburg Hollins in the district semifinals.

They’ve won close, high-scoring games — such as a 6-4 district championship win over Manatee and an 8-7 regional quarterfinal game over Mariner.

And they’ve won games by blow-

out — such as a 7-0 win over Mariner, and 10-0 and 9-3 wins over Manatee in the regional semifinals.

If they can win two more games in a best-of-three series against the Green Wave from May 7-10, they’ll go to play in the 5A state tournament in Fort Myers from May 14-17.

“We talked to them from day one in our first team meeting about their window closing,” Creek said.

“The window is closing for a lot of these guys, and you don’t have a lot of time, so you better leave it all on the field. That’s a conversation that we repeat to them daily so they keep grinding and understand that not everyone gets this opportunity.”

Vinnie Portell is the sports reporter for the East County Observer. Contact him at VPortell@ YourObserver.com.

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Liam St. John has been chasing the Lakewood Ranch High record for the javelin throw all season. The sophomore had a plateau period for much of the spring, but he finally broke through to set the record on May 3 at the Class 4A Region-3 meet at Plant City High School with a throw of 53.36 meters — breaking the former record of 51.45 meters set by Blake Wood in 2021.

St. John’s throw earned him second place at regionals and secured him a spot at the upcoming 4A track and field state championships from May 9-10 at Visit Jax Track at Hodges Stadium in Jacksonville.

there, so I go for free. My best score was an 81, which I shot (Sunday).

What does your ideal weekend look like?

Probably this past weekend. Eating steak, setting a school record and playing golf.

What’s been your most humbling experience in track and field?

After I threw 51 (meters) here and I was super close to the same record, I threw the same mark, 48, for seven meets in a row. I couldn’t figure out what I was doing wrong, and then I started going to training and I started going up. That was humbling throwing the same mark seven meets in a row.

When and why did you start throwing javelin?

I first started when I was a freshman because it was something that I thought would make me better at football. I figured it would help me get stronger in my shoulders.

What’s your favorite TV show or movie?

“The Waterboy.” It’s pretty funny.

I’ve watched it a couple of times.

How did you break through this season?

I’ve been doing a lot of training sessions with throwers this past month, like Evan Brown. He went to Saint Stephen’s. He saw me at the Braden River meet, and he found out I didn’t have a coach, so he asked if I could do training sessions with him. So that’s what I do every day, training sessions with him at Braden River.

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Hopefully, a nice person.

What’s your favorite meal?

Medium-rare steak with mashed potatoes and an Arnold Palmer at Longhorn Steakhouse or at home. I cooked it on Friday.

What’s your go-to warm-up song?

Honestly, no. It’s just whatever is on in the locker room most of the time.

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17B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

THURSDAY, MAY 8

WEATHER

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

SUNRISE / SUNSET

FORECAST

Sunrise Sunset

High: 89 Low: 70 Chance of rain: 24%

FRIDAY, MAY 9 High: 88 Low: 71 Chance of rain: 15%

Thursday, May 8

6:45a

8:07p

Friday, May 9

6:44a

8:07p

Saturday, May 10

6:43a

8:08p

Sunday, May 11

6:42a

8:08p

Monday, May 12

6:42a

8:09p

Tuesday, May 13

6:41a

8:10p

Wednesday, May 14

6:41a

8:10p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, MAY 10 High: 85 Low: 71 Chance of rain: 24%

May 12 Full

May 26 New

June 2 First

RAINFALL

SUNDAY, MAY 11

Gordon Silver captured this early morning sunrise from a drone high above Del Webb.

May 20 Last

High: 83 Low: 71 Chance of rain: 40%

Monday, April 28

0

Tuesday, April 29

0

Wednesday, April 30

0

Thursday, May 1

0

Friday, May 2

0

Saturday, May 3

0

Sunday, May 4

0

*Rainfall totals from Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport

Submit your photos at YourObserver.com/Contests. All submissions will be entered for the 2024-25. Weather and Nature photo contest. In February 2025, you will vote for your favorite photo, and the submission with the most votes will win a $500 gift card.

YEAR TO DATE: 5.93 in.

2025 9.67 in.

2024

MONTH TO DATE: 0.06 in.

2025 0 in.

2024

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Daily crossword puzzles available at YourObserver.com/crossword

TICKTOCK by Jessica Bloom-Foster & Larry Snyder, edited by Jared Goudsmit 126 Not imaginary 127 Acid 128 Craft kit letters 129 Winter hrs. in Times Square 130 Folk-rocker Brickell

DOWN 1 Cold, hard ___ 2 March Madness org.

3 Championship ___ (wrestling prize) 4 Like a cockatoo 5 “Yeesh!”

6 Stages, like a historical battle 7 Ran, like colors 8 Reuters rival 9 “Is a hot dog a ___?”

10 “We’ll sell you the whole seat, but you’ll only need the ___” 11 Projecting window 12 Opposes 13 “Chances ___ ...”

14 Beetle-shaped artifact 15 Access a web account 16 Solo 17 Garnished earnings ©2025 Universal Uclick

ACROSS

1 “Closing Bell” airer 5 Sphere 8 Utilize 11 Hereditary strands 14 Fish taco topping 18 Taiwanese tech giant 19 Where an air ambulance may land 21 Propeller that might be a decoration in a seafood restaurant 22 RC drink 23 Closing time?

25 Toast option 26 Awestruck 27 Places to store fedoras 28 Considers to be 30 Pickled pigs’ feet liquid 31 Fish aka maguro

32 Kitten sound

63 Not written in any musi-

93 Last letter, in the U.K.

34 Vehicles that land on the cal key water 65 The ___ (Philly stadium 36 Felt yesterday’s workout nickname)

94 Pampering acronym 96 Thick slice 98 “I loaf bread jokes,” e.g.

39 Reaction time?

42 Laundry amount

67 Absorb, like info 69 It’s about time!

99 Rude person 100 Crunch time?

43 Bake sale org.

44 SoCal school that received the most applica-

73 Brace (oneself) 74 Feathery accessories 75 “Nine ___ dancing ...”

103 Stock scooper 104 D.C. legislator 107 Off-roader (Abbr.)

tions of any U.S. college in 2024

(Christmas carol lyric) 77 City east of Verona

108 Cambodia neighbor 110 “I’ll do no such ___!”

45 Jiffy 46 “I’m so relaxed!”

49 Hosp. area

80 “FBI” actress Ward 82 “The Office” character who said, “I feel God in this

111 Polite denial 113 Lifeless 118 Press (down)

50 “I ___ born yesterday” 52 “Star Wars” ice planet

Chili’s tonight” 84 Dormant

119 Seize 120 Spare time?

54 With hands on hips 56 Throat part 58 Soul automaker

86 Go by 88 Soothe 90 New Orleans food on

122 Actor Idris 123 Drink such as Smooth Hoperator, briefly

60 Withdraw gradually French bread 62 Camera aperture setting 92 Chinese “way”

124 Scarfs down 125 Not far

20 “I’m behind the door!”

24 Word before “muffin” or “poker” 29 Extensive property 30 Buying time?

33 Outback bird 35 “Guilty,” e.g.

36 Landed 37 ___ Puffs (brown cereal brand) 38 “Old” hangouts 40 MLB great Aaron 41 Sarcastic applause 43 Queen’s residence 46 Qty. 47 “Succession” channel 48 Bunny’s bounce 50 Flight time?

51 Cash register part 53 Guard’s “Stop!”

57 Absorbs with bread 59 Complete misses, in hoops 61 Actor ___ Patrick Harris 64 “It’s all slander!”

66 Lead-in to “noir” 68 “The Mists of ___” (fantasy novel) 70 Social justice advocate Karakatsanis 71 “Now!” 72 Hurled, in slang 76 Traffic tangle 77 Dispensable candy 78 Red or brown brew 79 Word before “joke” or “bod” 81 Sci-fi weapons 83 Tools similar to brooms 85 Puff on a pipe 87 “___ Enchanted” (Anne Hathaway film) 89 Plate lunch pasta 91 Road parts often painted red 95 Short sleeps 97 Deli order initials 99 Disney princess with a pet tiger 100 Letter-writing buddy 101 “That’s a bummer” 102 Spain’s “Town of Stones and Saints” 103 Pork cut 104 Complete and total 105 Oil source rock

437912-1

celebrity cipher

By Luis Campos Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present.

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“NZSPNOOC K’F NYYKZSBY SX MZKBWZB VKZSKXW. OBS FB FNLB FC YKZSKXW ZOBNJ – K OXAB MZK-VK.” RXUW JUCM-YNAKBM

“CUNOA JPLZ P IPXVEPS BUCZN. GJZK EPR ZVGJZN WNVRX GJZ XNZPGZAG JPBBVRZAA UN GJZ OZZBZAG OZABPVN.”

AVXITRO HNZTO

“TSVSR BMSWCE TI TNKKIE DSP NHVSPB. ... NHVJKF JB NCC NTSWV IRYPIBBJSK; XMZ XSWCE ZSW XNKV VS JPSK SWV N DPSXK?”

PNHMIC XIJBGY

Puzzle Three Clue: R equals X

crossword

Puzzle Two Clue: X equals G

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sudoku

Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.

106 Lion who sings “I Just Can’t Wait To Be King” 109 Teenage dread 112 Footnote abbr.

114 Aswan Dam river 115 Cave-___ cheese 116 Pad kee mao cuisine 117 Raison d’___ 119 Zilch 121 “I Know ___ the Caged Bird Sings” (Maya Angelou autobiography)

55 “True, right?” ©2025 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

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Advertise your business or service in the Observer

RED PAGES CALL TODAY 941-955-4888

SARASOTA PAINTING, LLC INTERIOR / EXTERIOR / CABINETS WE ARE THE BEST!!!

Residential & Commercial.

Fully Insured.

CALL or TEXT Don 941-900-9398

SELL YOUR STUFF HERE!

DON’T let your

PATIO DOORS be a DRAG or your

WINDOWS be a PANE!!

Divorce is never fun, but it does not have to be nasty & hateful! Protect your family relationships and assets from expensive Court litigation. Consider Divorce Mediation, the peaceful alternative.

Sliding Glass Door Repairs Sliding Glass Door Deadbolts | Window Repairs

FREE

IN-HOAMTEES ESTIM

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Call us today!

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William J. Leininger, JD

Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator 677 N. Washington Blvd Sarasota, FL 34236 SarasotaDivorceMediator.com 941-727-5555

BRAZILIAN CLEANING Service

by Maria. Residential. Meticulous Cleaning. Excellent References.

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Doors

Divorce without Lawyers

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Cleaning

Pool Home Completely Upgraded $545,000

Autos Wanted

Color background: $ 5 per week Ad border: as low as $3 per week

For home listings and tee times visit us online To schedule a tour, please call 877-211-5337

House on Canal with Pool & Dock $1,250,000

auto

stuff

BEACH’ N RIDES Electric Bike Shop! eBike Sales and Rentals Ride easy on an eBike with as much exercise or assistance as you want.

Leave traffic and parking problems behind!

13 models available.

Daily and weekly rentals available.

We also repair other Brands.

Open 9 to 5 daily except Sundays and holidays.

12208 Cortez Rd, FL 941-251-7916 Ext. 1

Items Under $200 12 PC. set fine English china (Aynsley), like new. $200 941-907-2192

NOW offering HOMES FOR RENT from $2,500/monthly *On select homes

OPEN HOUSE

Homes for Sale

To Place Your Ad

ADVERTISE YOUR MERCHANDISE with the total value of all items $200 or less in this section for FREE! Limit 1 ad per month,15 words or less. Price must be included next to each item. No commercial advertising.

Ad runs 2 consecutive weeks in 1 Observer.

Call 941-955-4888 Or Email ad to: classified@yourobserver.com (Please provide your name and address) Or Online at: www.yourobserver.com Or mail to: The Observer Group 1970 Main St. - 3rd Floor Sarasota, Fl 34236

Brand New Model Homes starting in the low $200s

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www.ezslider.com

445093

for May 29th edition

Starting in the low $100s

home services

EARLY DEADLINES

HOMES FOR SALE

Merchandise Wanted

real estate

MEMORIAL DAY

The Premier Golf & Marina Manufactured Home Community 55+ Active Lifestyle

First 15 words ................. $ 17.50 per week Each add’l word ...... 50¢

Paint the town RED!

INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888

TO ADVERTISE CALL 941-955-4888 OR VISIT YOUROBSERVER.COM/REDPAGES

YourObserver.com

Aluminum

Kitchen/Bath Remodeling

Plumbing

CALL BEFOREYOU YOU FALL CALL BEFORE FALL

Mark’s Plumbing Service

GRAB BARS GRAB BARS

Plumbing repairs. Replace toilets, faucets, water filters, water softeners and repair leaks.

COMPLETE INSTALLATION PACKAGE

$ $235

RELIABLE • INSURED

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941-920-8221

445401

249 235 *

$

Screening

Dustin Yoder

Dustin Owner Yoder/ Operator

941.650.9790 941.650.9790 YoderAluminum.com

444267

Owner /Insured Operator Insured

LIFETIME GUARANTEE • LICENSED • BONDED • INSURED COVERAGEAREA: AREA:LAKEWOOD PARRISH TO NORTHPORT COVERAGE RANCH TO S. VENICE

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YoderAluminum.com

*DRILLING CHARGES MAY APPLY FOR MARBLE, GRANITE OR PORCELAIN. COUPON REQUIRED.

SHOWER & BATH MAKEOVERS

Auto Service

Cleaned - Regrouted - Caulked - Sealed

445156

SELL YOUR CAR!

by Allison

941 - 248 - 4734

Storm Cleanup • Garden Beds • Landscape Maintenance • Weeds • Trimming

Pegatronics Computer Instruction and Repair It’s Easier Than You Think!

All Florida Airports, Concerts & Dinners - Hourly Cruise Ships & Medical | See Specials at: www.blacklabelcarservice.com

Windows

Allison J. Abizaid

Personal Gardening Services | Designer

GG1 Lawn Care & Landscaping Services

AFFORDABLE WINDOW CARE

by John Larson

Call Today for FREE Estimate

Residential specialist for window cleaning & tinting

445157

Learn Computer Basics Phones/Tablet Help Apple & Microsoft Problems Solved On-Site and Off Much More! Call Today!

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Pruning, Weed Maintenance, Tree Care 423.251.2368 / 863.473.1069

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445162

941-735-3362

Painting

SARASOTA PAINTING, LLC

GROW YOUR BUSINESS WITH THE RED PAGES

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Serving Longboat Key Since 2005

Exterior / Interior / Cabinets

Handyman

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Do You Have Neck or Low Back Pain?

Do You Want To Avoid Surgery?

Building & Roofing Contractor • Aluminum, Vinyl, & Wood Soffit and Fascia • Metal & Shingle Roofing • Pool Cage, Pan Roofs & Lania Fabrication • Aluminum Welding & Fabrication

FREE CONSULTATION 941.358.2224 Recognized Among the Best Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Physicians in America

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444264

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.com

peekers’ place

Midtown Medical Park 1215 S. East Ave. Suite 210 Sarasota, FL 34239

You’re only cheating yourself.

senior citizen discount.

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PURIFIED WATER WINDOW CLEANING AVAIL ABLE!!

444880

Licensed & Insured CCC - 058059 CBC - 1253936

DR. DAVID CIFRA, DC

• Systems Upgraded & Serviced • Troubleshooting & Repair • Serving Manatee County since 1979

5

$

941-626-3194 kennethfuhlmaninc.com

Board Certified in the specialty of non-surgical spinal decompression

LAWN SPRINKLER SERVICES

SPECIAL 00

Kenneth Fuhlman Inc.

Give Us a Call - We Can Help

Irrigation

INCLUDING SCREENS, TRACKS, MIRRORS & FANS

Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES 941- 284 - 5880

This week’s Crossword answers

444883

GET YOUR LIFE BACK!

STANDARD WINDOWS

Roofing

160

25 $

UP TO

Showcase your products or services.

Health

Formerly known as Sunrise Windows

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “Actually I’m addicted to science fiction. Let me make my diction clear – I love sci-fi.”

John Rhys-Davies Puzzle Two Solution: “Words have a magical power. They can either bring the greatest happiness or the deepest despair.”

Sigmund Freud Puzzle Three Solution: “Botox should be banned for actors. ... Acting is all about expression; why would you want to iron out a frown?”

Rachel Weisz

This week’s Sudoku answers

©2025 NEA, Inc.

444532

445095

CALL OR TEXT 941-900-9398 TODAY! OWNER: DON HUBIAK

©2025 Universal Uclick

INTERIOR RENOVATIONS & ANYTHING FROM THE GROUND UP

The Only Thing You Have To Lose ... Is The Pain!!

Res. | Com. | Lic. | Ins.

FULLY INSURED • OWNER OPERATED

KEENS HANDYMAN SERVICES KEENS HANDYMAN SERVICES

on US CAPITAL, SENATE & LIBRARY of CONGRESS buildings after 9/11.

CALL (941) 955.4607 (941) 321.1304

Call to reserve your ad space: 941-955-4888

TEXT OR CALL 574-354-7772

TRUSTED SECURITY FILM INSTALLER

444886

No Job is Too Small!

BLACK LABEL CAR SERVICE “Luxury for Less” 410036

444875

Computer

GARDENS

Transportation

442679

5-Star Rated

HoHoBuysCars.com

Hardware Repair Virus / Malware Cleanup Software & Printer Install New Computer Setups New Purchase Consults Seniors & Beginners

445402

Landscaping & Lawn

WE COME TO YOU

941.270.4400

Call John 941.377.2940

Free Estimates • Sarasota Resident Since 1974

www.showerandbathsarasota.com

FAST • EASY • SAFE

444268

941.966.0333

364556 445155

“Specializing inin6” Gutters” “Specializing 6” Seamless Seamless Gutters”

444270

19B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

THE NUMBERS ARE IN. THE RESULTS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES. Coldwell Banker continues to lead the market in Q1.

Shanahan Luxury Group remains the top performing team in the Lakewood Ranch area.

QUARTER 1 2025 SALES VOLUME MANATEE COUNTY, FL

$273.07M

SARASOTA COUNTY, FL

$581.18M

$516.06M

$178.42M $124.93M

$235.8M

$107.53M

Coldwell Banker Realty

Michael Saunders and Company

Premier Sothebys Intl Realty

$159.63M

$98.66M

RE/MAX Alliance Group

Lennar Homes

$90.19M Coldwell Banker Realty

Michael Saunders and Company

Premier Sothebys Intl Realty

RE/MAX Alliance Group

Keller Williams On The Water

Based on closed sales volume information from My Florida Regional MLS for Sarasota County, FL and Manatee County, FL in all price ranges as reported on 2/26/2025 for the period of Jan - Dec 2024, calculated by multiplying the number of buyer and/ or seller sides by sales price. Source data is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Real estate agents affiliated with undefined are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2025 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

When it comes to selling, choose what matters most: Experience. Results. Trust.

7889 Mainsail Lane | Shoreview Waterside

1210 Blue Shell Loop | Wild Blue

New Listing

Fully-Furnished Model Home

$3,565,000 | 3,474 Square Feet 3 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms | Office | Flex Room Saltwater Pool/Spa | South-Facing Lake Homesite

$1,825,000 | 3,963 Square Feet 4 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms Office | Private Pool/Spa

1206 Blue Shell Loop | Wild Blue

17022 Cresswind Terrace | Cresswind

Fully-Furnished Model Home

$3,895,000 | 3,794 Square Feet 3 Bedrooms | 3.5 Bathrooms | Office Bonus Room | Private Pool/Spa

55+ Community

$767,500 | 2,318 Square Feet 3 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms Resort Amenities

SHANAHAN LUXURY GROUP 941.702.0437 | ShanahanLuxuryGroup@CBrealty.com 8334 Market Street | Sarasota, FL ShanahanLuxuryGroup.com #1 LAKEWOOD RANCH TEAM BY SALES VOLUME 2023-2024 for Coldwell Banker Realty Contact Us to Learn More or to Schedule a Showing.

437241-1

20B