Manatee Technical College’s Galilea Sanchez Velazquez and Riley McDonough (above) took the stage to celebrate achieving top finalist status of the collegiate division during the Health Occupations Students of America 2024 International Leadership Conference on June 26-29 in San Antonio, Texas. McDonough, who is a Pharmacy Technology student at MTC, was a top finalist in Occupational Health/Safety as well as Pharmacy Science. Sanchez Velazquez, who is a Medical Assisting student at MTC, was a top finalist for the Human Growth and Development competition.
To earn a medal or achieve top finalist status, McDonough and Sanchez Velazquez had to display their knowledge of college and career readiness in those fields.
More than 600 health professionals served as judges for the more than 10,000 students vying to become international champions.
No need to ride anywhere else
Robert Katelhut (above) used to ride his bike 10 miles a day.
He’s up to 30 to 40 miles a week now.
The former Texan moved from Fort Worth to Florida two years ago, and from St. Pete Beach to Waterside Place three months ago.
Katelhut doesn’t like riding on the roads, but he does enjoy riding around lakes. With Kingfisher Lake in Waterside, he doesn’t have to look much further than his backyard. The neighborhood offers pretty much everything else Katelhut needs, too. When he wants to eat out, Osteria 500 is a favorite. And eating in is just as convenient.
“I get my vegetables and meat here because it comes right to you (at the farmer’s market),” Katelhut said.
Emergency response drones tested in Manatee
Merica Ange and Hunter Chrisman are neighbors in Summerfield who are enjoying Fireworks on the Lake.
Courtesy image
Lesley Dwyer
East County needs new turf
Constant use has Manatee County’s staff adding synthetic turf to parks instead of grass.
LESLEY DWYER STAFF WRITER
East County parks are among the busiest parks in Manatee County. Lakewood Ranch Park took
4,887 reservations this past year, which totaled 16,575 hours of use across 21 athletic fields.
Soccer fields, in particular, are wearing out quicker in East County than in other parts of the county.
As a result, the Sports and Leisure department is moving toward adding synthetic fields in three East County parks: Lakewood Ranch Park, Braden River Park and at the Premier Sports Campus.
The two additional turf fields at Premier Sports Campus are already underway and funded. Designs started in January and construction
in May. Those fields, which actually were part of the Premier Park land purchase, will be an expansion of Premier Sports Campus and should be complete in December.
The additions to Braden River Park and Lakewood Ranch Park are new projects that staff added to the Capital Improvement Plan during the budget presentation to commissioners in June.
The budget and CIP will be finalized and approved by commissioners in September. Staff is requesting three new synthetic fields at Braden River Park and two at Lakewood
Ranch Park.
Molly White, Manatee County’s director of Sports and Leisure, said the excessive play on the grass fields is wearing out high-traffic areas like the goal mouths. Right now, staff delays the wear by rotating and moving fields when possible.
“Turf has an average lifespan of 8-12 years, sometimes more depending on use,” White said.
If approved and added to the CIP, two turf fields at Lakewood Ranch Park would be finished by October 2026 at a cost of $3,997,125. The three fields at Braden River Park would be finished by December 2028 at a cost of $5,995,688. According to the reservations by number of fields, Braden River Park has the busiest fields in the entire county. The 10 fields are booked up to seven days a week and 9,306 hours over the course of a year.
While the fields cost nearly $2 million apiece to design and install, White said there are several advantages over grass fields in the long run. Less mowing, maintenance and management is required, and there’s an additional cost savings on pesticides, fertilizers and paint.
The lines are stitched into the turf, so they don’t have to be repainted. Turf fields don’t need to rest and recover either, which allows for more play time year round.
When the lifespan is up, only the padding and turf needs to be replaced.
“The infrastructure underneath is already in place, so the cost is much less for a replacement versus a new installation,” White said.
“The infrastructure underneath is already in place, so the cost is much less for a replacement versus a new installation.”
Lesley Dwyer
The Braden River Soccer Club practices at Lakewood Ranch Park. County staff wants to add two new turf fields to the park.
Molly White, Manatee County’s director of Sports and Leisure
DRONES AT WORK
Gordon Folkes commended Manatee County for its track record of being forward-thinking and innovative. Manatee’s staff across multiple departments has used drones.
■ Natural Resources uses drones for mine inspection compliance and mangrove surveys.
Public Works uses drones for stormwater maintenance and engineering to capture aerials and imagery of job sites and existing infrastructure.
The survey department uses drones to ply their Light Detection and Ranging system with data for accurate surveys of large parcels.
Utilities deploys drones to get locations and aerials for pipe installations and to survey pipes in lakes or hard-to-access locations.
Property acquisition uses drones to photograph certain parcels.
a bilingual device. It’s capable of shocking both adults and children. There’s a child button on the top that you can click. This particular defibrillator will automatically shock the victim if needed, so there’s no button to push. You apply the pads, step back and you’re done.”
The pilot program is being conducted at the Lakewood Ranch EMS station on Malachite Drive. The drone sits stocked in a housing unit that automatically rolls open when deployment is initiated.
Drone rescue program TAKES OFF
LESLEY DWYER STAFF WRITER
Ten years before Gordon Folkes presented a drone to the Manatee County Commission as a lifesaving device, he was a sophomore at Florida State University who thought a drone would be a fantastic way to transport beer across a golf course. The idea, that’s since been developed into Archer First Response Systems, was called Sky Caddy for about two months.
Instead of stocking drones with beers and sandwiches, Folkes is now stocking drones with automated external defibrillators, tourniquets and nasal sprays that can reverse drug overdoses.
Archer software is tapped into 5,000 911 call systems nationwide. The program is being tested for the first time in Manatee County.
Once Folkes decided to add an AED to the Sky Caddy, the entire business plan changed.
“It was kind of an epiphany that (treating cardiac arrests) is a substantially more important problem to solve than getting beer across the golf course,” Folkes said. “We were Archer First Response Systems from then forward.”
Folkes initially decided to put AEDs on the caddies because he was a lifeguard in high school. He learned basic CPR training and understood the difference between a cardiac arrest and a heart attack.
An attack is a plumbing issue when a clogged artery prevents circulation. An arrest can happen to anyone at any time.
“It has nothing to do with diet or exercise,” Folkes said. “It just happens. You need a reset on the heart to get it out of fibrillation. Then your heart beats normally, and you’re usually fine.”
Folkes said there’s a four- to fiveminute window to get the heart to reset before brain damage or death occurs. EMS in Manatee County has an average response time of 8.04 minutes. Dispatch operators receive about 1,500 calls a day.
A 2018 study conducted by the National Institute of Health found a 67% survival rate in cardiac arrest patients when a bystander used an AED versus a 43% survival rate for patients who had to wait for EMS to arrive. In addition, 57% of patients survived with minimal disabilities after the bystander used the AED versus 33% for those who had to wait for EMS.
Publix likely has an AED in the store. The Lakewood Ranch Country Club keeps one in the front office. There are 282 businesses across Manatee County that keep an AED on hand in case of an emergency. The PulsePointAED app tracks where the
Archer First Response Systems launched a pilot program at the EMS station in Lakewood Ranch.
machines are located.
However, the overwhelming majority of businesses and homeowners don’t keep the machines on hand.
HOW IT WORKS
The Archer software is integrated into the 911 call system, so the drone is simply one more layer of emergency service. It doesn’t replace the traditional EMS response. An ambulance will still be dispatched, but the plan is for the drone to arrive first.
“The average response time for the drone is less than two minutes, while an ambulance’s average response is eight minutes,” said James Crutchfield, Public Safety Department deputy director and EMS chief. “The calls that the drone is prepared to assist with are time-sensitive and can make a significant impact for individuals experiencing medical emergencies.”
In 2023, Manatee County EMS responded to 962 suspected opioidinvolved overdoses. Opioids can slow and stop breathing. Narcan is a nasal spray that can temporarily block the effect of the opioids to restore breathing.
The drone operates as a public aircraft and is dispatched like any other emergency vehicle. If a 911 call involves cardiac arrest, opioid overdose or mass hemorrhaging, dispatch operators deploy the drone.
Operators are given scripts to guide callers through retrieving and using the items. Upon arrival, the drone hovers 200 feet above the delivery site and slowly drops the package down on a tether.
Instructions for each item are included in the package, but even the AED is user-friendly.
“The defibrillators have a video screen built in on top of them (for instructions),” Folkes said. “It’s
The Alta X drone can carry up to eight pounds of cargo. Its 33-inch propellers stabilize the aircraft in high winds. The drone has a certified parachute recovery system that will land it safely if anything malfunctions.
Archer isn’t in the business of building drones, so the company partnered with Freefly Systems. Freefly has been building drones for the cinematography industry since 2009, and Folkes said it builds a good product.
Manatee County is paying $1 a month to be Archer’s test site for a year. The monthly rate will rise to $10,000 as a paying customer. That’s a turn-key price that includes the drone, software and maintenance.
However, commissioners will have to decide whether the system is worth the cost, and how much of Manatee County’s 743 square miles needs to be covered. That will be $10,000 a month for each drone used to cover 35 square miles.
The initial coverage area is only 3.5 square miles with service from sunup to sundown, Monday through Friday. The coverage area will increase to 35 square miles and 24/7 once FAA approval is received any time between August and the end of the year.
The program launched on May 1. With such a limited coverage area for the time being, the drone has only received one request for deployment. Crutchfield couldn’t comment on the reason for the request.
As advanced as it is, technology can’t trump Mother Nature. A thunderstorm prevented the drone from being deployed to that call.
CULTURAL HEADWINDS
Folkes started Archer First Response Systems with only a $5,000 grant awarded for technological innovation by Genivia Inc., but finances were the least of his problems.
The idea was ahead of its time. Folkes was talking seriously about a technology that was mainly viewed as a toy 10 years ago.
The FAA didn’t know how to handle drones either. They were mainly being flown in fields by hobbyists, so there were no regulations in place.
The FAA created a structure for commercial drones, but Archer is not a commercial operation because no one at the delivery site is paying for a product or service. Still, the FAA viewed Archer as a commercial operation. The disagreement ensued for over three years. By 2019, drones had become commonplace and the FAA had agreed Archer was not a commercial operation, so fundraising began. Folkes spearheaded the effort himself. By 2021, he’d raised about $1.3 million. Archer has never had a staff of more than four people. Right now, it’s down to Folkes and Spencer Hehl. Fate put Folkes and Hehl on a team together for the Orlando Smart Cities Hackathon in 2017. Their team won, and Hehl got a job.
“We’re small but mighty,” Folkes said. “We were a small startup, and we kind of went head to head with one of the largest three-letter agencies in the nation. We came out on top, which is cool.”
This is the Alta X drone being used by EMS. An AED, tourniquet and Narcan nasal spray are packed inside the box.
Gordon Folkes presents Archer First Response Systems to commissioners on April 23. Steve Harris, senior vice president of payor and government affairs for Tampa General Hospital, is standing on the left.
Lesley Dwyer
The drone sits inside a ground hub, ready to deploy, in the side yard of the Lakewood Ranch EMS station.
Courtesy images
Former Manatee County District 1 Commissioner James Satcher currently is supervisor of elections.
Supervisor of elections prevails in lawsuit
James Satcher, the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections, sent out a release through his office July 3 that noted a lawsuit filed by former School Board of Manatee Member James Golden against the supervisor of elections has been dismissed.
Golden filed the lawsuit in 12th Judicial Circuit Court after he attempted to qualify to run for the District 5 seat but was turned away.
Golden said the statute regarding the filling of a vacancy and the resign to run law are “never conflated,” and an officer’s decision to resign — in this case Richard Tatem, who gave up his District 5 school board seat to run for the Florida House District 72 seat left vacant by the resignation of Tommy Gregory — should not interfere with a resident’s ability to qualify for a seat.
“The supervisor of elections, in this case, has wrongfully utilized the resign to run statute as a basis for determining whether I can qualify to fill the vacancy,” Golden said. “He doesn’t have any discretion in this. He must abide by the law. This is just more evidence of why he’s not competent to be a supervisor of elections. He doesn’t understand the law.”
The circuit court sided with Satcher.
Satcher’s release stated, “This ruling confirms that the actions taken by the supervisor of elections office were in full compliance with the law.
“It’s clear that Mr. Golden’s suit and interpretation of the law were
so off base that the court summarized the legal claim by saying ‘just because Petitioner says it to be so does not make it so.’” Satcher is running against Scott Farrington in the current election to be supervisor of elections.
The lawsuit challenged the decision not to hold an election for the District 5 School and to allow it to be filled by Gov. Ron DeSantis’ appointment.
Manatee Community Foundation names new board members
Lakewood Ranch’s Monaca Onstad, former director of community relations for Lakewood Ranch and currently the founder and CEO of OnPlace and OnVie lifestyle and amenities consulting firms, has been added to the Manatee Community Foundation board.
Onstad was one of four additions that also include Mike Moschella, Jan Pullen and Kristen Truong. In a release, MCF’s board chair, Bob “Buzz” Turner said the new members “bring a wealth of experience, expertise and passion for community service, further enriching MCF’s leadership. Their diverse backgrounds and deep commitment to philanthropy align seamlessly with Manatee Community Foundation’s mission to enhance the quality of life in Manatee County through strategic philanthropy.”
Moschella is president of Seacoast Banking Corporation. He has been on the boards of Boys and Girls Clubs of Manatee County, Bradenton Area Economic Development, the Manatee County Chamber of Commerce and United Way. Pullen is an educational consultant and the retired head of school at Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School. She has served as vice president of the board of directors for the Florida Council of Independent Schools and is on the boards of Global OutreachTanzania; the international organization Water Is Life; and the Global Alliance of Leading Edge Schools. Truong consults on federal government affairs to national associations, for-profits and nonprofits. She has served as president of Bradenton Christian School’s Key Club,
A dream come true for The Haven
Million-dollar donation allows The Haven to purchase property to build a supported/ independent-living campus.
Alison Thomas, chief operations officer, said it always has been a dream of The Haven’s administration to offer a supported/ independent living campus for those who don’t quite fit into the group home environment.
The problem has been space.
The 32-acre campus on Desoto Road in East County opened in 1954 and has expanded throughout the years, eventually going through what Thomas called “nonstop construction” the past 10 years to meet the group home and services need. With a waiting list of 350, Thomas said it will be virtually impossible to ever meet the group home demand on the current site.
So building supported/independent living homes was out of the question. Until now.
On July 1, The Haven announced plans to build an “innovative supported living program that aims to enhance the lives of adults with disabilities.” The new community, which will be about 300 yards down Desoto Road from The Haven’s main campus, will include a wide range of living options, including two-, three- and four-bedroom homes.
The 2.23-acre parcel currently is zoned to allow up to 11 units to be
built on the site. Rezoning to Residential Multiple Family-2 would allow up to 20 multifamily units on the site or up to 40 accessory dwelling units.
Thomas said she wouldn’t speculate how many homes will be built on the parcel while it is going through the permitting process with Sarasota County.
“We don’t want to throw a number out there,” she said.
The purchase of the property was made possible by a donation from Sarasota’s Karen and Steve Shapiro, who donated funds that covered the entire $1,050,000 purchase price.
Karen Shapiro said she and her husband love The Haven’s vision.
“This is such a special place,” she said of The Haven. “We have a child who is autistic, our son James. We’ve seen the struggle up close and personal. You see high-functioning people with disabilities trying to find their place in the community. You see people who are perfectly capable of working.
“The Haven wants to create a family community and provide meaningful opportunities.”
Karen Shapiro said her son worked this past year for Publix.
“Publix gave him an attaboy for being successful, whatever that looks like,” she said. “They gave him a sense of accomplishment, and that is so meaningful. What an amazing place.”
She foresees many more similar success stories in the future with the new community.
“Where does somebody like James (who is 20) live?” she asked. “What about a 29-year-old? What about a 50-year-old? These are perfectly capable people who just need a little help.”
Haven CEO Brad Jones said in a
release that the homes, likely duets or villas, will “be designed to face toward the center of the community to emphasize front-porch living, connecting with your neighbors, and creating a sense of community among residents.”
The community will include a spacious clubhouse with a gym, game room and theater. It will be staffed by The Haven 24 hours a day. While the emphasis will be on independent living, the residents will know they have access to a staff member whenever needed.
Thomas said she has permission from a neighbor who owns the land between the main campus and the new parcel to allow them to build a walkway that will connect the two. The new parcel is within walking distance to the Mall at University Town Center and the surrounding stores, Nathan Benderson Park, the new Mote Science Nature Aquarium, and the many restaurants in the area.
The new residents will rent or lease the homes.
“The Haven Residences at UTC will be privately owned and operated, ensuring personalized care and a sense of ownership and independence for our residents,” Jones said in a release.
“This will be a private pay system,” Thomas said of the new residences. She said having the residents’ rent paid through government or public funding has led to some restrictions that will not be in place on the new property. She explained the need for the new homes by saying those living in the group homes generally need aroundthe-clock care, and not everyone fits into that category.
“What we are doing on the new campus will be a little different,” she said. “It is supported living, but more focused on independent living. They will get up and make their own breakfast, set up their own transportation,
schedule their own social outings. This is for people who say, ‘My child could live much more independently. But my child needs a little support.’
“There has been no middle ground.”
Thomas said, realistically, she doesn’t expect to break ground on the new homes until 2026. The Haven would like to check with families interested in the new concept to make a list of needs. Then they have to navigate the permitting process.
Although no builder has been selected, Thomas said Halfacre Construction of Lakewood Ranch has handled much of the construction on the campus over the years and has been “a good friend” to The Haven.
Thomas said The Haven will need the support of the community to make the new homes accessible to all.
“We will be establishing a capital campaign,” she said. “We can’t give it for free.”
She said the homes will be open to “adults” with an approximate starting age at 22 and older.
The main campus has residents from age 21 to their mid-80s. They have three residents who have lived on campus since 1983.
The new homes will be ADA compliant with other upgrades based on mobility needs and visual support.
New residents will be assessed on their ability to truly live independently. Although the Haven tries to prioritize those from Sarasota and Manatee counties, potential residents could come from anywhere in the country and beyond.
The Haven currently has 112 employees.
Thomas said the new space, which has a very rural feel and currently hosts horses, was a perfect spot.
“It is a big piece to create a space that feels like home,” she said.
The Haven offers programs and services for individuals with disabilities. It is The Haven’s goal of “creating a world where people with disabilities are included and valued members of society.”
For more information on the project, or to make a capital contribution, contact Thomas at AThomas@TheHavenSRQ.org or Jones at BJones@ TheHavenSRQ.org.
hunger off the list this summer?
All donations stay local to help right here in our community. We need your support today! DONATE TODAY!
Jay Heater
The Haven COO Alison Thomas stands at the parcel of land on Desoto Road that was just purchased by The Haven to offer supported/independent living.
EYE ON BUSINESS
Bar Italia set to open in Center Point
The pasta, pizza dough, sauces and salad dressings are made in-house.
LESLEY DWYER STAFF WRITER
At 65 years old, Ricky Doody, the founder of NCR Ventures, said he is finished with big restaurant chains and eating at the mall.
NCR stands for Next Cool Restaurants. Doody and his brother, Chris, created the Italian restaurant chains Bravo! Cucina Italiana and Brio Tuscan Grille before selling the parent company in 2018.
“I don’t want to do that again,” Doody said. “I love taking care of people. I love to serve, but I don’t have a lot of energy to do a lot more restaurants. It’s hard enough to build them and run them. I’d rather do a few more quality restaurants and keep it at that.”
A few to Doody is about 10. Out of his five restaurant concepts, only Bar Italia is opening in multiple locations. Two are in Ohio, with a third under construction. The first Florida location opened in Winter Park in 2023, and the second is about to open on University Parkway.
Barring any last-minute delays, Bar Italia will open in the Center Point plaza in Lakewood Ranch on July 13.
“I’m tired of eating in malls,” Doody said. “There are about 20 options around the UTC Mall, but there aren’t a lot of options in Lakewood Ranch.”
He said Bar Italia will fill a void. His aim is to get the eatery onto people’s lists of favorite restaurants where they eat a few times a month.
He said his food is high quality, made from scratch and reasonably priced. The bar-centric restaurant offers a happy hour Monday through Friday with what he calls a “musttry” limoncello margarita.
Meyer lemon rinds are steeped in Everclear for 72 hours to make the
IF YOU GO
Bar Italia, 6568 University Parkway. The restaurant opens on July 13 at 3 p.m. for happy hour, with dinner service starting at 4 p.m.
Once fully up and running, hours will be Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Happy hour is from 3-6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Visit BarItalia.com.
limoncello. The pasta, pizza dough, sauces and salad dressings are also made in-house. The bread is freshly baked by Breadsmith of Bradenton. The menu features elevated, but still classic, Italian dishes like chicken Parmesan and veal marsala.
Cook James Prosso pulled a piping hot pepperoni pizza out of the wood-fired oven and said that was his favorite pie of all the menu options, which range from a simple Margherita to “The Pig & Fig” (prosciutto is the pig).
“The pepperoni has a nice little kick to it, but it’s also sweet,” Prosso said.
Lesley Dwyer
Cook James Prosso recommends the pepperoni pizza at Bar Italia because it’s sweet and spicy..
Beyond First Class™
My day at the library
Observer senior editor discovers what makes the new Lakewood Ranch Library special.
(Editor’s note: East County Observer senior editor Liz Ramos explored the new Lakewood Ranch Library. Here is her account.)
Growing up, when I walked into a library it felt like I was about to go on an adventure. The questions always were — when and where?
Would I be going to the Middle Ages to join Jack and Annie on an exploration of a castle through “The Knight at Dawn” of the “Magic Tree House” series?
Or maybe I would come to understand the impact of words on people’s lives through Cornelia Funke’s fantasy novel “Inkheart” and the books that followed.
Or maybe I would be in disbelief of the back-to-back deaths of Romeo and Juliet in the Shakespeare classic or get invested in the back-andforth between Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy in “Pride and Prejudice.”
The options were endless as I browsed the hundreds, if not thousands, of books available at my public library.
But the library trips were always short. I’d go in, pick a few books I knew I could finish in two weeks, and I’d be on my way.
As an adult now visiting the new Lakewood Ranch Library, I find I can spend my whole day there if I so desire.
Libraries have become more than just a place to read or check out books.
They are now a community gathering place. Yes, books are still plentiful and vital, but libraries offer so much more.
On June 21, I started my day at the Lakewood Ranch Library on the roof.
I only could watch Rooftop Yoga, a twice weekly free yoga class, because I was recovering from a broken ankle.
But next time ...
The calmness of feeling on top of the world and being able to look out at the surrounding lakes and nature preserve quickly brought me a sense of peace. The breeze before an incoming storm gave a reprieve from the heat of a summer morning.
I thought the rooftop could get more use if there were a few tables there. I know I would love a spot to read or work outside that has shade and is still easily accessible to other library programs and resources.
Of course, when it gets too hot to be comfortable outside, the first floor has a few options to work or read a book.
I loved going into the Reading Room to work in one of the nooks. The room is the perfect place if you need complete silence. People are hard at work, studying or quietly reading in the various seating options.
When I didn’t need the Reading Room’s absolute quiet, I went to one of the comfortable chairs along the windows in the main area of the library that had a small lap table.
The natural light helped create a bright and welcoming atmosphere. I’ve been in libraries that felt more like dungeons, so it was a welcome change of pace.
Although slightly cold in temperature, I’d take that over the summer heat.
I’ve never been to such a modern library with up-to-date technology, an auditorium and a Makerspace.
Considering the technologydriven society we live in, I understand that the modern aspects of the library make sense. I must admit I do miss the warmth and coziness you’d get from the older wooden chairs and tables that were just uncomfortable
Steve Aldrich, a Lakewood Ranch Library volunteer, leads a Cricut certification class that allows library patrons to use the Cricut machines in the Makerspace.
PROGRAMS AVAILABLE
■ Rooftop yoga
■ Baby story time
■ Preschool story time
■ Jazzercise on the rooftop
■ Toddler story time
■ Art drop-ins
■ Lego Club
■ Musical motion
■ Rooftop sunset zumba
■ 40 Carrots Partners in Play
Visit MyManatee.org for a full schedule of programs.
enough to make sure you didn’t fall asleep while reading or studying.
I worked at the library until 2 p.m. That’s when the Makerspace was opened for the Adult Drop-in Art session. The Makerspace is an area with technology and resources like 3D printers, Cricut machines, sewing machines and more. It allows people to explore their creative and technological sides.
For this particular Adult Drop-in Art session, the task was to create magnet art. It was a nice time to meet new people while participating in a quick and easy art activity. I decided to use some of the scrapbook paper the library had for most of my magnets, but I also took some creative liberties and made a magnet for the Disney fan in me. I made a Mickey Mouse magnet and a Minnie Mouse magnet.
The drop-in time was for adults only; the library hosts a plethora of other age-specific events best suited for those ages. For example, just two hours later, tweens, ages 8 to 12, were in the Makerspace for Lego Club where they could make whatever they wanted using Legos.
Other days, the Makerspace is used for drop-in art for preschoolers, teen game night, tween STEAM events and more.
On July 5, the Makerspace was used to host a Cricut certification class. A Cricut machine is used for craft projects, and the certification class is required if library patrons hope to use the machines during Cricut crafting open hours hosted once per month.
Steve Aldrich, a library volunteer, explained the process of using a Cricut machine with clarity and simplicity. You could tell he was invested in teaching others and that he enjoyed showing what crafts people could do with the machine. It was a great introductory for people who have never used these machines before.
If the Makerspace doesn’t interest you, the library has plenty of other programming to keep you busy.
There are various types of story times for certain age groups. There’s jazzercise for adults on the rooftop and recreational dance for tweens and teens.
The auditorium is a space for a variety of events.
Members of the Florida Orchestra’s staff came into the library for an “instrument petting zoo.” Lois Ancona, a board member of the Florida Orchestra Guild of St. Petersburg, Michelle Kim-Painter, director of education and community at Florida Orchestra, and Christina Lai, a manager of education and community for Florida Orchestra, talked about the organization and the assorted instruments they brought with them.
Children learned about the instruments and had the opportunity to try them out.
Kim-Painter said the instrument petting zoo could spark an interest in a child, or those of any age.
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
Managing Editor / Jay Heater, JHeater@YourObserver.com
Advertising Graphic Designers / Luis Trujillo, Taylor Poe, Louise Martin, Shawna Polana
Digital Developer / Jason Camillo, JCamillo@YourObserver.com
Information Technology Manager / Homer Gallego, HGallego@YourObserver. com
Chief Financial Officer / Laura Strickland, LStrickland@YourObserver.com
Controller / Rafael Labrin, RLabrin@YourObserver.com
Office and Accounting Coordinator / Donna Condon, DCondon@ YourObserver.com
Observer Media Group Inc. is locally owned. Publisher of the Longboat Observer, East County Observer, Sarasota/Siesta Key Observer, West Orange Times & Observer, Southwest Orange Observer, Business Observer, Jacksonville Daily Record, Key Life Magazine, LWR Life Magazine, Baldwin Park Living Magazine and Season Magazine
CEO / Matt Walsh MWalsh@YourObserver.com
President / Emily Walsh Chairman Emeritus / David Beliles Vice President / Lisa Walsh (1995-2023) 8130
LIZ RAMOS SENIOR EDITOR
Florida Orchestra staff came into the library for an “instrument petting zoo.”
Lois Ancona, a board member of the Florida Orchestra Guild of St. Petersburg, Michelle Kim-Painter, director of education and community at Florida Orchestra, and Christina Lai, a manager of education and community for Florida Orchestra, show off the instruments.
The Lakewood Ranch Library hosts rooftop yoga twice weekly.
Lowering the boom on my love of fireworks
Iwas a ninth grader in the 1970s, approaching the U.S.-Canadian border on our way back from Montreal as we headed to New York. We had some serious contraband in our bus.
It was, indeed, a different time. But back to that in a moment. First, the four boys in my French class, including me, had loaded up on fireworks, which we weren’t supposed to bring across the border. I don’t think the eight girls in our group had done the same, but, hey, they were, after all, girls. Now, not being able to take fireworks across the border seemed rather silly to us since the fireworks stores were lined up as you approached the border, and nobody batted an eye as our school bus pulled up in front of the store. Back in the day, my favorite fireworks were the M-80s, and they were everywhere in that store. M-80s are illegal in Canada now, but they must not have been at the time, because there they were. M-80s contain a charge in excess of 50 milligrams of pyrotechnic flash powder, which requires a license for U.S. civilians to use. Despite what you have been told, they aren’t equal to a quarter stick of dynamite.
So we each got about 20 of them, and didn’t think much about it as we boarded our bus and approached the border.
We figured we were all clear when a border official waved our bus through the security check, and on we went. But that feeling of escape changed a few miles down the road, when a New York Trooper’s car came screaming after us. As our French teacher’s husband, the driver, pulled the bus over, we all had visions of going to the big house. Fortunately for us, our driver had misunderstood the border official’s directions, as he was trying to wave us into a different lane for buses so we could undergo an inspection. It must have been a busy day, because
our driver and the trooper shared a good laugh, and we went on our way. So back to the fact it was a different time.
Consider the 1970s, as our French class was a bunch of 14- and 15-year-olds and our only chaperones were our French class teacher and her husband. In Montreal, when the girls in the class went to the botanical garden with the two adults, the four of us boys were released to wander Montreal on our own. Yes, on our own. We eventually went to the Montreal Expos-Philadelphia Phillies baseball game June 26, 1972 at Jarry Park. The Expos are now the Washington Nationals and Jarry Park doesn’t exist. But that day was a special one in baseball history, because Phillies pitcher Steve Carlton beat the tar out of Expos manager Gene Mauch. Carlton hit Expo Tim Foli with a pitch on the helmet in the fourth
inning, in retaliation for a beanball in the top of the inning. Mauch charged Carlton, probably not thinking that the pitcher was a karate expert. One writer described Mauch’s condition as a “beaten up tomato” after the one-sided brawl. We were there, watching the whole thing. The Phils won 1-0, one of Carlton’s 27 wins that year for lastplace Philadelphia. We saw history, but we didn’t think much about that as we drove back to Orange County in New York. We were thinking about how we were going to use those M-80s. It all was so many years ago, I can’t remember firing off most of them, although I do remember it gave the pyrotechnic in me many thrills. I do, however, remember shooting off two of them, two years later when I had my driver’s license.
My friend Scott Williams and I stopped in front of the house of our buddy Eugene Sales (Yes, we called him Soupy for those of you who
have lived a little.) around 2 a.m. on July 5. His dad and mom treated Scott and me like family, and we figured we would give everyone a big laugh that night. I tied the fuses of two M-80s together and we snuck to the side of the house — and set them off.
We had tied longer fuses to them so we could get back to the car, and we were ready to drive off when the boom rocked our car, and of course, the house. It was an incredible explosion.
We were laughing as we drove away, looking back to see the lights going on at Soupy’s house. Soupy later told us that his dad came down the hallway with a shotgun, then fell when trying to sit in a living room chair. We never admitted our part until years later.
Every year, when July 4 rolls around, I think back to Montreal, Steve Carlton, M-80s, the chase at the border, the assault at Soupy’s, and more.
I have a little harder time enjoying those memories these days because of the social media frenzy that accompanies the July 4 holiday, saying our sick desire for the big boom haunts pets, damages wildlife and causes serious injuries.
Sure, I know people have lost fingers, and worse. KISS drummer Peter Criss had a temporary hearing loss due to an M-80 being thrown on stage in 1976, and Aerosmith singer Steven Tyler and guitarist Joe Perry were both injured by an M-80 thrown on the stage in 1977.
Deaths because of fireworks have occurred. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says fireworks were responsible for eight deaths in 2023. These are things that I know. And yet, I do love fireworks. It’s not just because of patriotism, either.
I love fireworks on Feb. 6, or June 7, or July 4, or Sept. 23. People love all kinds of odd things that aren’t particularly good for them. I guess fireworks are a weakness for me.
There I was as an adult, supervising my teen son as we set off fireworks together on our court in our California neighborhood. It was illegal then, too, but those remain good memories. I continue to applaud Nathan Benderson Park’s Fireworks on the Lake, and the combined effort of the cities of Bradenton and Palmetto to put on their annual fireworks show over the Manatee River. I can’t explain to you why I enjoy the boom, boom, crackle, crackle, BOOM, so much I guess it was something that got into my blood from the first time I was handed a sparkler at a campground when I was a little kid. Even then, I was taught which end was the hot end, and to make sure it was completely out before I threw it away (something those kids in Greenbrook who burned down the pavilion last year obviously didn’t learn). At this point of my life, I am not going to change my fondness for fireworks. It’s like the many things we do in life that aren’t always healthy for us, or that can have negative consequences if we don’t take care while participating. I ask that those who enjoy fireworks take the utmost care in handling them. And for those of you who can’t stand them, please have a little patience with me on the July 4 holiday.
I can’t help myself.
(If you have opinions on the subject, please send them to me at JHeater@YourObserver.com.)
Jay Heater is the managing editor for the East County Observer. Contact him at JHeater@ YourObserver.com.
File photo
Fireworks are the highlight of Fireworks on the Lake at Nathan Benderson Park.
School board candidate wants to be an advocate
HEATHER
Family:
who
Courtesy image
Parrish’s Heather Felton is running for the District 1 seat on the School Board of Manatee County.
year.
She wasn’t sure what would be next until people started asking her if she would run for the School Board of Manatee County.
“It’s not about being a politician; it’s about being a voice,” Felton said. “I can speak for other teachers who are worried or afraid to speak. I can speak for parents because my kids are out of the schools. I’m not in it for political gain. I’m not setting out to be a politician. I’m out to be an advocate, and that’s really it.”
Felton is running for the District 1 seat on the School Board of Manatee County.
Felton said the politics and policies coming down from the state “made it so hard to be a teacher,” which is why she left the classroom. She said the book vetting policies and book banning were the final straw.
“When (the district) came in and told us we had to take our books out of our class that were not in the school library system, that hurt me,” she said. “I sat in my classroom, and I cried because I had over 600 books that I had accrued over my years as a teacher, a lot of them from my own home and brought in to share with my students.”
But all her memories as a teacher are happy ones, she said. Felton said she loved seeing how invested her students would get in the books they were reading in class.
She said she loved seeing the lightbulb moment when a student understood a literary concept or found love for a book.
While teaching seventh grade at Harllee Middle School, which closed as a public school in 2017 and is now the Harllee Center, Felton said she had a group of boys with special needs who fell in love with “The Outsiders.” For many, she said it was the first book they read to completion. After they finished the book, her students were asking if they could keep a copy of it because no matter their race or ethnicity they related to the characters.
“I was scrounging all over the place trying to find spare copies of
“The Outsiders” to give out to these boys who had never read a book before,” she said. “These kids from 1950 in this little town in the midwest connected with these teenage boys in Manatee County, and that is amazing.”
Felton said throughout her career, she has wanted to be an advocate for people, whether as a journalist or a teacher.
She moved to Manatee County in 1997 after being accepted to the Poynter Institute in St. Petersburg for its Summer Fellowship Program for news writing and from there interviewed and accepted a position as a night-time police reporter for “The Bradenton Herald.”
After five years with the newspaper, she left to become the editor of the “Florida Catholic,” a newspaper for the Diocese of Venice. Her interest and passion for ministry brought her to Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Catholic Church in Bradenton where she became the director of faith formation.
Working with children at the church, she said she felt called to the classroom to be a teacher in a public school.
Now she does pre-authorizations for infusion medications for a private practice and advocates for patients.
“That is my goal, to advocate for people, not to get on somebody’s good side but to do what is right for the people I’m working for,” she said.
When Felton decided to leave the School District of Manatee County, she was heartbroken for the Southeast High School juniors she was teaching. Of the 150 juniors, she was supposed to be the English teacher for 50 of them during their senior year as well.
She promised them she would be there for them at graduation in May 2024 to watch each of them receive their diplomas.
Following through on that promise and helping her students ensure their caps and gowns were perfect, and cheering them on as they walked across LECOM Park was an incredible experience, she said.
IT’S READ EVERYWHERE
Headed
• Glaucoma Management & Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Procedures
• Micro-Incision Cataract Surgery
• Routine Eye Care
His way to give back
East County resident wants to give back to the community by winning the District 1 school board seat.
LIZ RAMOS SENIOR EDITOR
When East County’s Mark Stanoch learned in 2022 that Nov. 7 would be observed as Victims of Communism Day in Florida, he was inspired.
The bill that created Victims of Communism Day, House Bill 395, mandates all high school students in U.S. government classes must receive at least 45 minutes of instruction on topics regarding communism and how victims under communist regimes suffered.
Stanoch said 45 minutes was not enough. He decided to start a scholarship program, Victims of Communism-Manatee, that awarded $8,000 in scholarships to Manatee County students who wrote an essay, created a display or gave an oration on the evils of communism.
The scholarship was one way for Stanoch to give back to the community he has called home since 2008, he said.
Stanoch wants to continue to give back to the community as well as be a part of a school system that educates two of his three grandchildren by becoming a member of the School Board of Manatee County, representing District 1.
“I just want to make sure they’re getting the best education,” Stanoch said. “It’s not only for my grandkids’ benefit but for all kids in the county. I want to leave the school board in a little better position.”
Stanoch started becoming politically active after his disappointment in President Joe Biden winning the election in 2020. Since then, Stanoch
has participated in political groups such as Manatee Patriots, Community Patriots in Hillsborough County and Defend Florida.
Besides the school board seat, Stanoch said he has no other political ambitions. He said his sole focus is on the School District of Manatee County.
If elected, Stanoch said he wants to ensure the voice of the local constituents is heard.
“I’ve always believed local problems require local solutions,” he said.
“I know that our hands are tied by statute and a lot of things are handed down by laws and legislation, but you
have to hear the voice of the people.”
His primary goal is to give back to the community. He already volunteers with Anna Maria Oyster Bar’s Dive into Reading program in which he mentors kindergartners in a summer reading program. He also volunteers for Feeding Empty Little Tummies.
Stanoch said he loves seeing the moment students finally understand a concept or lesson.
Stanoch said in many ways, he has served as a teacher. He served as a part-time professor at Edward Williams College, which is a part of Fairleigh Dickinson University. He’s
ABOUT THE CANDIDATE
MARK STANOCH
School board seat: District 1
Residence: Rye Wilderness Age: 71
Occupation: Retired, career in Information Technology
Family: Wife, Annette Stanoch; children, Bob Stanoch, Christopher Stanoch, Timothy Stanoch; three grandchildren Fun fact: He has an identical twin brother, and he loves making perogies.
also taught statistics, technology, marketing plans and more throughout his career.
Stanoch spent 35 years in Information Technology working for companies including Chase Econometrics, IBM and Microsoft. He also started and led his own companies.
He said he’s learned how to look at organizations differently to see how to automate them and make them more efficient.
“One thing I always personally maintain is no matter what I did or where I went, it was always about providing value,” Stanoch said. “That’s what I’d like to do for the school system. I’d like to try to provide value to the stakeholders, including the teachers, the kids and the taxpayers.”
Stanoch now is retired and uses his knowledge in IT to support the technological needs of various organizations.
When he’s not participating in political groups or civic associations, Stanoch is Wargaming, a strategy game simulating armed conflict.
Stanoch is an avid history buff and has painted 20,000 miniature soldiers of all armies so he could recreate battles.
He’s had a love for history since he was in elementary school. He said some people have questioned why he didn’t become a history teacher or a college professor.
“You learn a lot from history,” Stanoch said. “There’s a lot of wisdom hidden there. It is kind of true that history does repeat itself, so you can see some patterns and things that can apply toward modern times.”
Liz Ramos
East County’s Mark Stanoch is running for the District 1 seat of the School Board of Manatee County.
ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT
To London
Sarasota Ballet wins hearts with its Royal Opera House residency.
MONICA ROMAN GAGNIER ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
More than 35 years after his death some of Ashton’s ballets are more popular than ever and some of those that might easily have been forgotten are being kept alive in Sarasota. —Bachtrack
All hail the Sarasota Ballet. They came, they saw, they conquered. The glowing reviews of their June 4-9 London residency at London’s Royal Opera House provide the proof.
Among their fans and benefactors in Florida, there seemed little doubt that the Sarasota Ballet would be a hit in London.
After all, the company, which has made its reputation preserving the ballets of Sir Frederick Ashton, has gone from strength to strength since Iain Webb became managing director in 2007 and was joined by his wife, Margaret Barbieri, in 2012, as assistant director.
Earlier in their careers, Webb and Barbieri danced the principal roles in Ashton ballets at the Royal Ballet, where Ashton was choreographer under Ninette de Valois and later director of the company when Valois retired.
The Sarasota Ballet flew to London and performed in “Ashton Celebrated” at the invitation of Royal Ballet Director Kevin O’Hare, but the residency was fraught with peril, to hear Webb tell it.
“It was like bringing coals to Newcastle,” said Webb, a native of Yorkshire, in the north of England.
“Even though it was a great honor, there was the fact that we’ve been known for doing Sir Fred’s ballets — it’s what put the company on the map. But you’re basically taking his ballets, which are very special, back to his home theater,” Webb noted in an July 3 interview.
“There’s long been a perception that the Royal can’t dance Balanchine and the Americans can’t dance Ashton. We were going up against that by bringing in rarely seen works with new dancers,” he said.
Before the residency, Webb couldn’t stop thinking about how the National Ballet of Canada met with disaster when it performed Ashton’s “La fille mal gardée” at the Royal Opera House in 1979. Recalls Webb: “I was there and everything possible
with love
The revelation was “Dante Sonata,” which sends 22 dancers flooding across the tiny stage in movement at once uninhibited and highly sculptural. —The Guardian Tuesday’s strongly danced triple bill began with Ashton’s swoony, wistful take on Ravel’s “Valses nobles et sentimentales,” which premiered in 1947. Sarasota’s well- drilled couples inhabit Sophie Fedorovich’s debs-and-dancecards setting with smiling conviction, led by Jessica Assef swivelling undecidedly between two romantic possibilities (a cheeky nod to “Sleeping Beauty”). — Financial Times
went wrong. It was as if it had been sabotaged.”
“It was daunting because there had been so much hype beforehand,” says Barbieri about the Sarasota Ballet’s London showcase. “Tickets sold out almost immediately and the expectations were so high.”
It was Barbieri who staged the Ashton ballets the company performed in London. The repertoire included the ensemble-driven “Dante Sonata” (staged with Patricia Tierney), the showcase of choreographic satires “Facade,” the abstract “Sinfonietta,” the waltzing “Valses nobles et sentimentales” (with Webb) and Ashton’s self-parody “Varii Capricci,” as well as several divertissements, smaller pieces that are ballet’s answer to a chef’s amuse bouche.
Ashton’s considerable legacy and the storied reputations of the Royal Ballet dancers weighed on the Sarasota Ballet’s performers. “The Royal
Ballet is such an icon in the ballet world,” says principal dancer Jessica Assef, who joined the company last season from the Atlanta Ballet. “It’s such an honor to dance there. It’s something you dream of when you’re little.”
Assef adds, “You know you’re going to meet these ballet stars from today’s generation and hear about the ones from before. The studios are named after them — the Fonteyn, the de Valois, the MacMillan — and they all have the pictures of their namesakes above them. So you’re there dancing and MacMillan is watching you. You [feel] the weight of it.”
Asked if she was surprised by anything during the residency, Assef replied, “How welcoming everyone was,” at which point Barbieri chimed in. “The surprise was that the reviews were great. The audience reaction was wonderful too,” she says.
As it turns out, all the fears about flopping in foggy Londontown were for naught. The hard work paid off. It took lots of heavy lifting to get the Sarasota Ballet to the “Ashton Celebrated” program in London honoring the choreographer’s 120th birthday.
Of the Ashton ballets performed at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden, the Sarasota Ballet had presented three — “Varii Capricci,” “Dante Sonata” and “Sinfonietta” — during its 2023-24 season, which wrapped April 26-27 at the Sarasota Opera House.
“Sinfonietta” was in the last program of the season, so it was fresh in the dancers’ minds and bodies, but it still needed polish, Webb says.
Five days after their season finale, the Sarasota Ballet dancers returned to the studios, where Barbieri began to stage all the Ashton ballets that would be performed in London.
“It would have been easy to just do one program throughout the six days but instead I did three different programs,” says Webb. “So Maggie had to really teach everything with the help of Victoria (Hulland) and Octavio (Martin).”
Hulland, a former Sarasota Ballet principal dancer, danced many of Ashton’s ballets during 16 years on stage. She returned to the company in 2022 as artistic assistant to the directors. Martin is ballet master of the Sarasota Ballet.
Once they arrived in London, the Sarasota Ballet dancers only had a day off before they had to begin rehearsals. After the residency, Webb gave them another day off to go sightseeing. During the London run, everything went like clockwork except for a last-minute laundry snafu on the first night, says Jennifer Hackbarth, Sarasota Ballet principal dancer.
“Our white tights turned pink in the laundry,” she says. “They must have been washed with something.” However, the Royal Ballet’s costume department came up with some fresh white tights for their guests.
Ricardo Graziano and Macarena Giminez performed “The Walk to Paradise Garden” on the main stage of the Royal Opera House in London.
Images courtesy of Foteini Christofilopoulou
The Sarasota Ballet won favor with London critics with such productions as Sir Frederick Ashton's "Dante Sonata," part of the program of "Ashton Celebrated" at the Royal Opera House.
In addition to dancing their Ashton repertoire in the Royal Opera House’s Linbury Theatre, the Sarasota Ballet also shared the main stage with the Royal Ballet. The company performed “The Walk to the Paradise Garden” on June 7, 18, 21 and 22.
“For Kevin (O’Hare) to do that was quite remarkable,” Webb says. “It was a great gesture that showed he understood and respected what we’ve been trying to do with Sir Fred’s works.”
But no good deed goes unpunished. This was the performance that received a brickbat from the critics amid all their other bouquets.
The Guardian dismissed “The Walk to Paradise” as “an oddity, best forgotten.” Still, that’s more a criticism of Ashton than the company.
While the Sarasota Ballet’s management, staff and dancers pushed themselves to the limit to make the London residency a reality, it wouldn’t have been possible without the financial wizardry of Joseph Volpe, the company’s executive director, and the generosity of donors, Webb says.
The $640,000 cost of the London trip didn’t come out of the Sarasota Ballet’s regular budget, which is about $9.2 million. It was raised separately, Webb says, after the company received its London invite in April 2023.
Volpe joined the Sarasota Ballet in 2016 after retiring as general manager of the Metropolitan Opera. Along with Webb and Barbieri, Volpe forms the troika that has raised the Sarasota Ballet’s international profile and strengthened its financial footing.
Volpe’s financial acumen is needed more than ever in the wake of Gov. Ron DeSantis’ rejection last month of $32 million in state arts grants for fiscal 2025. Last year, the Sarasota Ballet got a state cultural grant close to $104,000. It had hoped for at least a similar amount this year.
The news of the cuts came while the Sarasota Ballet was in London, Webb says. But the company didn’t let it rain on their Covent Garden parade.
Bringing home the souvenir of a lifetime
arasota Ballet Director
Iain Webb got some good news last month when he was in London rehearsing for the company’s residency at the Royal Opera House: Webb was honored with the 2024 British National Dance Award for Outstanding Achievement. Webb was presented with the De Valois Award for Outstanding Achievement by Graham Watts and Dame Monica Mason at London's Coronet Theatre on June 3, the night before the first performance.
He didn’t have time to dally at the presentation. “I took a taxi to the ceremony in Notting Hill Gate, said, ‘Thank you’ and got a cab back to the opera house,” says Webb, only half in jest. “I might have shed a tear or two along the way.”
The National Dance Awards have been handed out since 2000 by the U.K.'s Critics' Circle, made up of more than 60 dance writers
and critics. This year, more than 300 companies, choreographers, performers and other artists were nominated for the awards.
“I was hoping the critics didn’t honor me one day and murder us the next,” Webb quips.
Webb’s honor wasn't just in recognition of his efforts to elevate the Sarasota Ballet since he and his wife, assistant-director Margaret Barbieri, took over the reins in 2007. The award also spotlighted his achievements as a former first soloist with London's Royal Ballet and other star turns during his career.
Under Webb's stewardship, the Sarasota Ballet has performed at the Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival in the Massachusetts Berkshires, twice at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., and several times in New York City, most recently in August 2022 at the Joyce Theatre.
Although the Sarasota
Ballet is known for its expertise in the works of Sir Frederick Ashton, the late choreographer and director of the Royal Ballet, it has a wide-ranging repertoire.
Among the choreographers whose works it performs are George Balanchine, Johan Kobborg, Kenneth MacMillan, Jessica Lang, Twyla Tharp and Christopher Wheeldon, to name a few. Along with its profes-
sional dance company, the Sarasota Ballet offers youth and adult classes as well as pre-professional training at the Margaret Barbieri Conservatory. Its summer intensive attracts hundreds of students from around the nation to study with the faculty of the Sarasota Ballet School, which uses the American Ballet Theatre national training curriculum.
Left: The Sarasota Ballet traveled to London to appear in "Ashton Celebrated"
at the Royal Opera House.
Courtesy image
Sarasota Ballet Director Iain Webb displays the National Dance Award for Outstanding Achievement that he received in London on June 3.
THIS WEEK
THURSDAY
JAZZ THURSDAY AT SAM
5:30 p.m. at Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail Free to $20 Visit SarasotaArtMuseum.org.
The Jazz Club of Sarasota teams up with the Sarasota Art Museum for an evening of jazz on the museum’s Michael and Marci Klein Plaza. Watch Darcie Allen and the Five Points Quintet and enjoy extended hours in the museum’s galleries, shop and bistro.
‘RHINESTONE COWGIRLS’
7:30 p.m. at FST’s Goldstein Cabaret, 1239 N. Palm Ave.
$18-$42
Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.
Created by Nancy Allen Productions, this musical tribute to some of the first ladies of country features such classics as Patsy Cline’s “Crazy,” Tammy Wynette’s “Stand by Your Man” and Carrie Underwood’s “Last Name.” Runs through Aug. 4.
‘THE MUSIC OF LAUREL CANYON’
7:30 p.m. at FST’s Court Cabaret, 1265 First St. $18-$42
Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.
If you know, you know. But not everyone knows about Laurel Canyon, the neighborhood above West Hollywood’s Sunset Strip that became home to folk musicians such as Joni Mitchell, Buffalo Springfield, Crosby, Stills, Nash, & Young and The Mamas and the Papas. Runs through Aug. 25.
‘DEAR JACK, DEAR LOUISE’
8 p.m. at FST’s Keating Theatre, 1241 N. Palm Ave.
$29-$46
Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.
Acclaimed playwright Ken Ludwig tells the story of his parents’ courtship during World War II. The play follows U.S. Army Capt. Jack Ludwig, a military doctor stationed in Oregon, who begins a life-changing pen-pal relationship with Louise Rabiner, an aspiring actress living in the Big Apple. Runs through Aug. 11.
FRIDAY
SUMMER CIRCUS SPECTACULAR
11 a.m. and 2 p.m. at Historic Asolo Theater, 5401 Bay Shore Road $20 adults; $15 kids Visit Ringling.org.
If you’ve never seen a performance in The Ringling’s jewelbox venue, the Historic Asolo Theater, here’s your chance. Presided over by Ringmaster Jared Walker, the Summer Circus Spectacular includes contortionist Uranbileg Angarag, acrobatic hand balancers The Bello Sisters, hair hang artist Camille Langlois, slack wire performer Antino Pansa and clown Renaldo, a veteran of the Big Apple Circus. Runs through Aug. 17.
WBTT STAGE OF DISCOVERY SHOWCASE: ‘MAKE ROOM FOR ME’
7:30 p.m. at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N. Orange Ave. $27 Visit WestcoastBlackTheatre.org.
“Make Room for Me” showcases students in Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe’s seventh annual summer musical theater program. The show represents the culmination of WBTT students’ five-week experience developing their musical, writing and dramatic talents. The student performances will be accompanied by a live band led by WBTT Resident Music Director Matthew McKinnon. Runs through July 14.
MONDAY
JAZZ JAM SRQ
5:30 p.m. at Selby Library, 1331 First St. Free Visit JazzClubSarasota.org.
Jazz Club of Sarasota presents an open mic jam session for professionals and amateurs alike sure to be enjoyed by the listening audience.
DON’T MISS 14TH ANNUAL SARASOTA IMPROV FESTIVAL
Florida Studio Theatre’s downtown Sarasota campus becomes a hotbed of improvisational comedy as visiting acts join the resident FST Improv for a jamboree of laughter and unexpected fun. Chile’s Lospleimovil troupe makes its debut at this year’s festival, which will be headlined by Impro Theatre, a Los Angeles group that gins up full-length plays inspired by the world’s greatest playwrights. Returning are fan favorites Available Cupholders, Big Bang Improv, Dad’s Garage, Parallelogramophonograph and North Coast. Don’t miss the grand finale, when more than 80 festival artists unite on FST’s Gompertz Theatre stage for an unscripted show. Runs through July 13.
7 p.m. The Players Centre, Studio 1130, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail $12; $30 for three-play series Visit SarasotaJewishTheatre.org.
If it’s summer in Sarasota, it’s time for play readings. The Sarasota Jewish Theatre enters the derby with Newish Jewish Plays, a three-play series on three consecutive Mondays. First out of the gate is Gary Morgenstein’s “Dancing on Glass,” a play about the firing of a Jewish teacher of Israeli-Palestinian studies for not being “balanced enough.” This ripped-from-the-headlines production will be directed by Blake Walton, managing director of SaraSolo Productions and an award-winning multihyphenate performer.
OUR PICK
CLYDE BUTCHER: NATURE THROUGH THE LENS
If you haven’t seen the breathtaking exhibition of photographer Clyde Butcher at Historic Spanish Point, why not take a morning drive to the 30-acre compound overlooking Little Sarasota Bay? Dotted throughout the campus are large-scale prints of Butcher’s black-and-white photographs of Florida’s flora and fauna. Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
IF YOU GO
When: 10 a.m. Sunday, July 14
Where: Selby Gardens Historic Spanish Point campus, 401 N. Tamiami Trail, Nokomis
Tickets: $20
Info: Selby.org.
Courtesy image
"All Play," the annual finale performance of the Sarasota Improv Festival, shown in 2023.
Image courtesy of John Jones
Ken Ludwig’s “Dear Jack, Dear Louise” runs through Aug. 11 at FST’s Keating Theatre.
File photo
You might never see a ghost orchid in the wild, but you can see Clyde Butcher's photo of it at "Nature Through the Lens," which runs through Aug. 31 at Selby Gardens Historic Spanish Point.
EATING WITH EMMA
Hot diggity dog! July is National Hot Dog Month
Bite into the best buns and dogs in Sarasota and Manatee counties.
EMMA BURKE JOLLY CONTRIBUTOR
My mother has not always been a fan of the boys I chose to partner up with — and as usual, mother knows best.
My high school boyfriend sported dentures after getting knocked out one too many times during hockey games. He was also on a first-name basis with the local cops. My college boyfriend broke up with me while I was packing for a trip to Disney World with my entire family. Plus, the number of times he cheated on me was greater than all the galas thrown during a Sarasota season.
So when I went from zero to hero with my forever boyfriend, I think it was the proudest I ever made my mom. When he brought her flowers, prosecco and her favorite toilet paper (Charmin) just a week after meeting her, she knew I had learned quite well from my mistakes. Other than their love for me, my mom and now husband have bonded over their joy for Johnny Walker (black) on the rocks and their admiration for Idris Elba. Most importantly, they have joined forces and created the “we hate hot dogs” task force.
But this July, with it being National Hot Dog Month, I am determined to get them both to down some dogs. Here are the best spots in town to do just that.
TONY’S CHICAGO BEEF CO. 6569 Superior Ave., Sarasota; 941-922-7979; Facebook.com/ TonysChicagoBeef
Let’s Be Frank: If I’m getting my mom to eat a hot dog, I know it’s gonna be the Chicago Dawg ($6.29). Served up just like they do at Wrigley Field, Tony’s prepares this “is-it-a-sandwich or is-it-not-asandwich?” in a poppy-seed bun with all the Midwestern fixings: yellow mustard, gorgeous green sweet pickle relish, chopped white onion, tomato slices, a delightful dill pickle spear, pickled sport peppers and celery salt.
food truck is parked to get your dawg on. The list of these all-beef hot dogs ($5 each) will have you relishing foodie heaven, but the chili and cheese is frankly the top dog. However, if you aren’t feeling like a heavy doggie, go ahead and get the classic New York style. I can just picture my dad snacking on this, humming Frank Sinatra and saying, “I’ll never get why your mom hates hot dogs.”
You’re the Bun for Me: To brat or not to brat, that is the question. The answer? Definitely yes. The Chicago brat ($6.69) comes with kraut on a hot dog bun or, my personal pick, French bread.
WILLY-YUMS HOTDOGS & MORE 2003 14th St. W., Bradenton; WillyYums.com
Let’s Be Frank: Don’t be a loser, be a wiener and find where this local
You’re the Bun for Me: Next time I head to Willy’s, I am crushing a Carolina slaw dog made with mustard and homemade coleslaw. My eyes are on the prize, and the prize lays between buns found in this Bradenton food truck.
PACIFIC COUNTER
4942 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, 941-217-6016; 11581 FL-70, Suite 109, Bradenton, 941-7398039; PacificCounter.com
Let’s Be Frank: What do you get
You’re the Bun for Me: My oh my, the banh mi dog ($5.99) is the runner-up wiener for me. Packed with cucumber, jalapeno, daikon radishes, cilantro and avocado lime deliciousness, the flavors flawlessly fold into one another in a fantastic way that foodies only dream of.
JOEY D’S CHICAGO STYLE
EATERY & PIZZERIA 3811 Kenny Drive, Sarasota, 941378-8900; 6401 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-753-8900; 945 10th St. E., Palmetto, 941-417-2106; 750 U.S. 41 Bypass N., Venice, 941-7861300; JoeyDsFL.com
Let’s Be Frank: I was raised by two proud Chicago natives. When we went to Madison Square Garden as kids, we were not there rooting for the Knicks, baby, we were rooting for MJ, Scottie and Dennis. Our answering machine message when I was growing up was, “Da Bulls, Da Bears, Da Burkes aren’t home right now so leave a message.” So when I stumbled upon the original Chicago-style hot dog ($6.09) at Joey’s, I felt instantly connected to my Chicago roots. I am determined to have my husband eat one as he watches the Cubs beat the Guardians in the next World Series ... again.
You’re the Bun for Me: Come one, come all, it’s chow time. Chicago combo, AKA Da Chief ($12.99) is dished out with thinly sliced beef on top of a tasty Italian sausage and sweet or hot peppers.
DOGGYSTYLE
1544 Main St., Sarasota; 941-2605835; HotDogsWithStyle.com
when a girl who loves food walks into a poke bowl and burrito bar? A newfound love for Hawaiian dogs ($5.99). Never judge a restaurant by its vibe, right? I wouldn’t have expected to add this dog to the list, but ever since my first bite, I can’t stop thinking about it. After eating this dog smothered with Hawaiian salsa, sesame seeds and chili aioli, I now know the true meaning of aloha.
Let’s Be Frank: With more than 13 signature dog options ($6.99) to choose from and four types of dogs (100% beef, beef/pork, red hot or vegan) dog-lovers are surely to fall in love with the array of samplings here. Choose from Memphis style with beautiful bacon jam, shredded cheese and green onion or the Philly with sautéed onions, mushrooms and Swiss.
You’re the Bun for Me: Animal rights group PETA ranked Sarasota’s own Doggystyle as one of the top 10 best vegan options in the country. Their pick? The Chicago Hot ($6.49), where you sub standard relish for hot pepper relish, has been named one of the best!
Courtesy images
Doggystyle, Sarasota’s Main Street one-stop dog-shop, is bun in a million.
Willy-Yums, in business since 2017, makes the best (and most unique!) dogs in Bradenton.
Choose from Hawaiian, kimchi, banh mi or Cali dogs at Pacific Counter.
YOUR NEIGHBORS
FIREWORKS TRUMP RAIN
Athunderstorm and a bird named Taco were the opening act for the fireworks display at
Nathan Benderson Park on July 3.
Fireworks on the Lake draws a huge crowd each year, and activities start four hours before the fireworks. There’s live music, bounce houses and two rows of food trucks and vendor tents.
This year, there was also a thunderstorm that sent the crowd scrambling under tents. But not one child was unhappy under the tent with Taco. The lilac Amazon parrot hopped from shoulder to shoulder posing for pictures as if he was part of the entertainment.
Parrish resident Lyle Pohlen said the 5-year-old parrot goes everywhere with him.
When the storm left behind a double rainbow, the party was back on. Lines trailed from the food trucks, and sneakers littered the outside of the bounce houses.
Before fireworks could light up the sky, the crowd was treated to a fiery sunset. As the evening went on, more and more people packed the lawn.
Sarasota resident Jonathan Koltun was excited to watch the fireworks with his 4-year-old daughter, Lily, from the finish tower.
He was also prepared after attending last year’s event. He avoided the roof because the stairwell could block the left side of Lily’s view, and he brought his own chair for the wait.
Koltun gave his daughter a big kiss on the cheek as they settled in on the fourth floor staircase landing, which overlooks the entire park and provided a front row seat for the show.
— LESLEY DWYER
Photos by Lesley Dwyer
The storm leaves behind a double rainbow.
Fireworks light up the night sky over the lake at Nathan Benderson Park on July 3.
Rain is not dampening the Shepherd family’s fun. The kids in the front row are Nicholas, Scarlett and Liam Shepherd. Mark Masingil, Lilliana, Marina and Paul Shepherd stand in the back row.
Spectators are in their seats in the finish tower and ready for the fireworks show.
The annual prelude to Independence Day is held at Nathan Benderson Park every July 3.
An ice pop helps 3-year-old DeSoto Lakes resident Alaia Wolford wait patiently to get into the Kids Zone.
Pursuing a dynamic career starts with our A.S. in Music Production program! Learn from experienced industry pros, practice with cutting-edge equipment and tune into a world of creative opportunities, such as music production, sound engineering, recording and more.
hen John Holz first moved his family from Slinger, Wisconsin to Lakewood Ranch, the architect was starting from scratch with zero connections.
Holz learned about developer Schroeder-Manatee Ranch when he bought his house in Summerfield. In an effort to make connections, he sat down with Mac Carraway, who was president of SMR Farms at the time, and had a conversation over coffee.
Holz had no idea SMR had an agricultural arm outside of real estate at the time, but Carraway gave him some valuable advice nonetheless.
“He said, ‘John, the most impor-
tant thing you can do for your business, or whatever you’re trying to do here as an architect and your future, is to join the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance and get involved,” Holz said. “That was the essence of our coffee meeting. Never saw him again, but would love to thank him personally because 12 years (later), we’re doing so well.” Holz joined the Alliance and volunteered to work on the Economic Development Committee.
“By working hard and rolling up my sleeves, people started to take interest in what we were doing,” Holz said of Plunkett Raysich Architects. “But I never handed out business cards. I never asked for a job. I never asked for a project.”
Holz is now a studio leader in charge of a team of 10 for Plunkett Raysich Architects, which is one of over 700 LWRBA business members.
There are also more than 3,500 individual members who are business professionals.
Even with a large membership, Holz said joining the Alliance 12 years ago was like joining a family. Last year, Holz and some other members spent four hours stuffing 100 pillows for memory care patients during the Alliance Gives Back Volunteer Days.
“I wish we could do more of that. It sticks with you,” Holz said. “It’s so incredibly valuable what we’re doing in the community.”
This will be Alliance Gives Back Volunteer Days’ seventh year. From Oct. 3-5, members will volunteer their time for those members that are nonprofit organizations. The nonprofits submit projects ahead of time.
Last year, Alliance members donated over 950 hours to 35 projects that generated an economic impact of $27,000 — all in three days.
The projects can be anything that requires man hours, whether that’s landscaping and hard labor or sitting down to stuff swag bags for a gala.
“It’s a good opportunity for these nonprofits to get exposure to the business community,” President and CEO Brittany Lamont said. “Fawley Bryant, for example, they help build a Habitat for Humanity house every year during the Alliance Gives Back. It’s a great team-building exercise for them, and it’s an opportunity for them to make a difference in the community.”
During this year’s volunteer days, the Alliance is hoping to launch a new online platform called Point. In partnership with Lakewood Ranch Community Activities and the Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation, Point will match volunteers with nonprofits.
Volunteers can search by their location, interests and the days they’re available.
“A lot of people aren’t from here,” Lamont said. “You might have a connection to the food bank where you were from in the Northeast, but you come to a new community and you’re like, hey, where can I get involved? That’s really the goal of that Point platform.”
Alliance membership rates range from $250 to $12,500 a year. Nonprofits receive a 20% discount.
The alliance and its member nonprofits are differentiated by a number. The typical nonprofit is a 501(c) (3). LWRBA is a 501(c)(6). Both are tax exempt, but only donations to a 501(c)(3) are tax deductible. The alliance relies on membership revenue to operate.
It’s a nonprofit that offers services to the community, nonetheless.
“We’re focused on solutions for the business community,” Lamont said, “Whether it’s advocacy issues, whether it’s connecting them, whether it’s educational topics or rules that are coming down that are labor law rules or overtime rules — things that they need to be armed with to operate their business, so that they’re pumping money back into the economy.”
Members travel to Tallahassee annually to meet with officials and advocate for issues such as taxes and workforce training. This year, members are traveling to Washington, D.C., to advocate on a federal level for the first time.
Lamont is passionate about the subject of affordable and accessible child care. Locally, she leads the Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County’s task force. They’ve come up with a program to partner businesses that want to provide a child care benefit to employees with day cares that are willing to expand.
On a legislative level, Lamont is working with Rep. Fiona McFarland to incentivize employers to contribute to child care costs and put day cares on-site.
“We’re here to support businesses,” Lamont said. “A community that employs people and has good commerce in it is a thriving community for everyone.”
Juan Carlos Vigil brings to Intercoastal Medical Group at the Lakewood Ranch II office a
Internal Medicine.
Undergraduate: Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Myers, FL
Medical School: Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Fort Lauderdale, FL
Residency: Internal Medicine, Broward Health Medical Center, Fort Lauderdale, FL
Certification: Board Certified, American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine; American Board of Internal Medicine
Hospital Affiliations: Lakewood Ranch Medical Center; Doctors Hospital; Sarasota Memorial Hospital
YOUR CALENDAR
THURSDAY, JULY 11
DANCE FOR KIDS Begins at 10 a.m. at the Lakewood Ranch Library, 16410 Rangeland Parkway, Lakewood Ranch. The Lakewood Ranch Library hosts a free Recreational Dance for Tweens and Teens event. Join others on the library rooftop and learn how to move to the beat. Jazz, Latin, hiphop and more styles of dance are taught. The class is open to all dancing abilities and no dance experience is needed. Geared for kids 8-18. For more information, go to MyManatee. org/Departments/Manatee_County_Public_Library_System.
THURSDAY, JULY 11 THROUGH
SUNDAY, JULY 14
LIVE MUSIC AT JIGGS LANDING
Runs from 5:30-8:30 p.m. each day at Jiggs Landing, 6106 63rd St. E., Bradenton. The live music lineup at Jiggs Landing includes Donnie Bostic (Thursday), Soundwave (Friday), Al Fuller Band (Saturday) and Nax Steele (Sunday). The Friday and Saturday concerts have a $5 cover and the other concerts are free. For more information, go to JiggsLanding.com.
FRIDAY, JULY 12
MOVIE IN THE PARK
Begins at 7 p.m. at Waterside Park, 7301 Island Cove Terrace, Lakewood Ranch. “A Bug’s Life” is the feature in the free monthly event, Movie in the Park. Besides the family friendly movie, the event includes concessions from We B’ Poppin Popcorn and Kettle Corn, inflatables for the kids and a free Siesta Pop for the first 300 attendees. The event is sponsored by Grace Community Church. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs.
SATURDAY, JULY 13
SWIFTIES PARTY
Runs from 2-4 p.m. at the Braden River Library, 4915 53rd Ave. E., Bradenton. The Braden River Library presents a Taylor Swift Eras Party for those ages 10 and older. It’s a call to all Swifties. Join the crowd for an afternoon of all things Taylor Swift. The event includes crafts and activities, light snacks and drinks.
BEST BET
FRIDAY, JULY 12 AND SATURDAY, JULY 13
MUSIC AT THE PLAZA
Runs 6-9 p.m. at Waterside Place, 1560 Lakefront Drive, Lakewood Ranch. On Friday, singer/songwriter Mylon Shamble will entertain those who stroll through Waterside Place as part of the free music series. On Saturday, singersongwriter Danielle Mohr will perform. For more information, go to WatersidePlace.com.
Singer/songwriter Danielle Mohr returns to Waterside Place on July 13.
For more information about the free event, call 727-6079 or go to MyManatee.org/Departments/Manatee_ County_Public_Library_System.
SUNDAY, JULY 14
FARMERS MARKET
Runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Lakefront Drive in Waterside Place, Lakewood Ranch. The Farmers Market at Lakewood Ranch will run year-round every Sunday. Vendors will be offering seafood, eggs and meats, among other items. For more information, visit MyLWR.com.
YOGA IN THE PARK Runs 9-10 a.m. at Waterside Park, 7301 Island Cove Terrace, Sarasota. Start the morning off with gentle yoga with lake views. For more information, go to LakewoodRanch.com.
Lake Club home tops sales at $2.76 million
ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR
Ahome in Lake Club
topped all transactions in this week’s real estate. Mark Silbey, trustee, of Walpole, New Hampshire, sold the home at 8525 Pavia Way to Bruce Betters and Lisa Betters, trustees, of Bradenton, for $2.76 million. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, five-and-a-half baths, a pool and 3,558 square feet of living area. It sold for $2,504,400 in 2023.
COUNTRY CLUB EAST
Anthony and Cassie Watson, of Bradenton, sold their home at 15003 Camargo Place to John Hsu and Linda Lentz, trustees, of Greenbank, Washington, for $2.15 million. Built in 2012, it has four bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,990 square feet of living area. It sold for $1,179,000 in 2016.
Cuse to Coast 2 LLC sold the home at 15716 Seaton Place to Peter Allen Robison, of Potomac Falls, Virginia, for $1,275,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,717 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.34 million in 2022.
Jesse and Nancy Vance sold their home at 14725 Castle Park Terrace to Elizabeth and Michael Kostolansky, of Lakewood Ranch, for $1.15 million. Built in 2014, it has two bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,271 square feet of living area. It sold for $1,075,000 in 2023.
Eric and Tammy Prouty, of Bend, Oregon, sold their home at 14652 Newtonmore Lane to Joseph Richard Maheu and Ann Patterson Maheu, of Lakewood Ranch, for $1,145,000. Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,579 square feet of living area. It sold for $625,000 in 2018.
LAKE CLUB
MCCJ4 LLC sold the home at 7830 Bowspirit Way to Brian Truesdale and Angela Truesdale, trustees, of Bradenton, for $2.04 million. Built in 2023, it has five bedrooms, fourand-a-half baths, a pool and 3,727 square feet of living area. It sold for $1,699,000 in 2023.
ESPLANADE
Christopher Bates Lever and Kathryn Marjorie Lever, trustees, of Lakewood Ranch, sold the home at 13012 Sorrento Way to Scott Levenson and Michelle Levenson, trustees, of Potomac, Maryland, for $1.62 million. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,875 square feet of living area. It sold for $1,105,000 in 2021.
John and Judy Martin, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, sold their home at 12606 Fontana Loop to James and Melissa Jones, of Bradenton, for $783,000. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,275 square feet of living area. It sold for $510,000 in 2016.
WINDING RIVER
Josh and Sarah Rankin, of Perrysburg, Ohio, sold their home at 1023 143rd St. N.E. to Mickey Andrew Escala and Sharyl Kay Escala, of Bradenton, for $1,387,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, threeand-a-half baths, a pool and 4,054 square feet of living area. It sold for $749,300 in 2016.
AZARIO AT ESPLANADE
William Paul Cagle and Kathleen Cagle, of Lexington, South Carolina, sold their home at 4734 Sarca Court to Jeffrey and Kim Depoy, of Bradenton, for $1,325,000. Built in 2022, it has three bedrooms, threeand-a-half baths, a pool and 2,144 square feet of living area. It sold for $700,500 in 2022.
MALLORY PARK
Dale Larkin Stanton Ambrose and James Ambrose, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their home at 12148 Cranston Way to James and Charlene Campen, of Charlotte, North Carolina, for $1.3 million. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, five baths, a pool and 4,677 square feet of living area. It sold for $792,500 in 2020.
Lewis and Jackie Bonadies, of Sarasota, sold their home at 3413 Anchor Bay Trail to Kaelyn Keane, of Lakewood Ranch, for $835,000. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,483 square feet of living area. It sold for $805,000 in 2022.
Jeffrey Blair and Jennifer Lynn Blair, of St. Petersburg, sold their home at 3611 Plymouth Run to Justin and Corine Parker, of Bradenton, for $760,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths and 3,367 square feet of living area. It sold for $415,800 in 2017.
BRIDGEWATER
Nektarios and Katie Amanatidis, of Bradenton, sold their home at 13119 Belknap Place to Eric Scott Kinsey and Elya Kathryn Kinsey, of Bradenton, for $1.25 million. Built in 2014, it has six bedrooms, fourand-a-half baths, a pool and 3,993 square feet of living area. It sold for $476,400 in 2014.
Patricia Del Savio, trustee, sold the home at 13116 Ramblewood Trail to Donald and Dolores Thomas, of Lakewood Ranch, for $725,000. Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,287 square feet of living area. It sold for $386,300 in 2013.
MILL CREEK
Rex and Frances Jensen, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their home at 1904 148th Court E. to Alexander Antonio Erbella and Jenny Lynn Erbella, of Bradenton, for $1.15 million. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,952 square feet of living area.
Thomas Stephens, of Bradenton, sold his home at 13804 18th Place E. to Michelle Hogan, of Bradenton, for $575,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,160 square feet of living area. It sold for $285,000 in 2014.
RIVERDALE REVISED
Gautier Fabrication Inc. sold the home at 4531 Barracuda Drive to Steven Kyle McNutt and Rhonda Ann McNutt, of Sarasota, for $1.15 million. Built in 1999, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,377 square feet of living area.
COUNTRY CLUB
Susan Arsenault, of Barnstead, New Hampshire, sold her home at 7432 Riviera Cove to Elizabeth A. Howe and Elizabeth J. Howe, of Lakewood Ranch, for $1.01 million. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,470 square feet of living area. It sold for $560,000 in 2015.
Nadejda McClain, trustee, of Sarasota, sold the home at 6712
The Masters Ave. to Romeo and Iva Gjerdji, of Lakewood Ranch, for $770,000. Built in 1999, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,357 square feet of living area. It sold for $565,000 in 2013.
WINDWARD
Sean Christopher Noonan and Stephanie Lee Noonan, of Sarasota, sold their home at 2806 Butterfly Jasmine Trail to George and Christina Alexopoulos, of Sarasota, for $965,000. Built in 2022, it has four bedrooms, four-and-a-half baths, a pool and 3,029 square feet of living area. It sold for $772,200 in 2022.
Birute and George Moskaluk, of Elgin, Illinois, sold their home at 2815 Butterfly Jasmine Trail to PJA Holdings LLC for $610,000. Built in 2022, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,848 square feet of living area. It sold for $418,800 in 2022.
LAKEWOOD NATIONAL GOLF
RESIDENTIAL
JUNE 24-28
Hickok Belt Loop to Michael Schmidt, trustee, of Bradenton, for $960,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,006 square feet of living area. It sold for $509,000 in 2019.
Gina Marie Celli, trustee, sold the home at 6101 Cessna Run to Thomas and Laura Fitzpatrick, of Bradenton, for $810,000. Built in 2018, it has two bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,900 square feet of living area. It sold for $450,000 in 2018.
MARINER ESTATES
Mark and Jasmine Marie Hasler, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their home at 5125 Tidewater Preserve Blvd. to
Justin and Christine Mizell, of Bradenton, for $912,500. Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,034 square feet of living area. It sold for $530,000 in 2020.
MOORINGS AT HERITAGE
HARBOUR
John and Mabel Schranz, of Ontario, Canada, sold their home at 8812 Rum Runner Place to Gerard and Valentina Hickey, of Wyckoff, New Jersey, for $875,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,390 square feet of living area. It sold for $468,300 in 2017.
Courtesy image
This Lake Club home at 8525 Pavia Way sold for $2.76 million. It has four bedrooms, fiveand-a-half baths, a pool and 3,558 square feet of living area.
sylvania, for $650,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, threeand-two-half baths and 2,733 square feet of living area. It sold for $337,500 in 2018.
WHITEBRIDGE COURT
RIVER CLUB NORTH
Casimir and Kasia Bruniany, of Bradenton, sold their home at 6301 Spyglass Lane to Kimberly Lyn Shue, of Bradenton, for $875,000. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,618 square feet of living area. It sold for $332,000 in 2002.
COUNTRY CREEK
Lynn Burgess and Norma Kemble Jr., of Bradenton, sold their home at 230 147th St. N.E. to Kevin Kortzendorf, of Indianapolis, for $810,000. Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,898 square feet of living area. It sold for $715,000 in 2021.
TIDEWATER PRESERVE
Indaba Property LLC Inc. sold the home at 7733 Whitebridge Glen to Joseph Donini, of University Park, for $650,000. Built in 1994, it has two bedrooms, one-and-a-half baths and 1,609 square feet of living area. It sold for $448,000 in 2023.
MANDALAY
Robin and Jaymie Vanmeter, of Ocoee, sold their home at 6188 46th St. E. to Curtis Lee McGuire and Samantha Jo McGuire, of Bradenton, for $607,500. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,330 square feet of living area. It sold for $355,000 in 2020.
MOTE RANCH
Bryan and Morgan Magaldi, of Pooler, Georgia, sold their home at 922 Preservation St. to Aaron Dollenmeyer, of Covington, Kentucky, for $685,000. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,913 square feet of living area. It sold for $660,000 in 2023.
DEL WEBB
Thomas and Maureen Griffin, of Solon, Ohio, sold their home at 16708 Blackwater Terrace to Alan and Mary-Lynn Crosta, of Randolph, New Jersey, for $665,000. Built in 2017, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 2,148 square feet of living area. It sold for $464,000 in 2020.
Robert and Marcia Miller, of Rockville, Maryland, sold their home at 17444 Hampton Falls Terrace to Joanne Hoffman, of Bradenton, for $555,000. Built in 2018, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,425 square feet of living area. It sold for $326,700 in 2018.
MIRAMAR LINKS
Charlotte and Timothy Greene, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their Unit 19 condominium at 8408 Miramar Way to Michael David Spence and J. Ann Spence, of Wexford, Penn-
Joseph and Leslie Schulman, trustees, of Boynton Beach, sold the home at 5837 Carriage Drive to Philip Baker and Bruce Mihalick, of Sarasota, for $600,000. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,950 square feet of living area. It sold for $471,700 in 2023.
PERIDIA
Barry Child Properties LLC sold the home at 4222 Augusta Terrace E. to James and Judy Erickson, of Fargo, North Dakota, for $575,000. Built in 1989, it has three bedrooms, twoand-a-half baths, a pool and 2,056 square feet of living area. It sold for $415,000 in 2021.
LAKEHOUSE COVE AT WATERSIDE Mary Scannell, of Chelmsford, Massachusetts, sold her home at 8109 Sternway Road to Todd and Kristine Graham, of Boynton Beach, for $550,000. Built in 2023, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,743 square feet of living area. It sold for $471,700 in 2023.
SPORTS
Fast Break
“I’m trying to improve my football IQ. Things like reading defenses and seeing how to pick them apart.”
7.
sity of Cincinnati
Cardinal Mooney High girls basketball rising senior Kali Barrett, who lives in East County, committed to the University of Cincinnati on July 7. The 6-foot2 Barrett, a small forward, averaged 14.8 points, 8.8 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.4 steals per game as a junior. Barrett is ranked by Prep Girls Hoops as the No. 4 player in the class of 2025 in Florida.
Lakewood Ranch-based tennis player Charlie Putrino a graduate student at Rollins College, received the school’s Arthur Ashe Jr. Leadership and Sportsmanship Award in June. Putrino graduated from the Crummer Graduate School of Business with a 3.99 GPA and helped the men’s tennis team to a 20-3 record, going 13-4 as an individual.
Gene Grabowski sank a hole-in-one July 2 on the No. 17 hole of Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club’s Royal Lakes course. Grabowski used a 6-iron on the 157-yard hole.
Former Lakewood Ranch High baseball star Grant McCray, now with the AAA-level Sacramento River Cats (San Francisco Giants), went 7-14 with three doubles and an RBI in three games against the Reno Aces (Arizona Diamondbacks) held July 4-6. McCray is hitting .286 in 20 games since being called up to the River Cats on June 11.
Jessica Nguyen, Khanh Nguyen, Nancy Burnside and Peter Heraty (97) won the mixed flight of the July 4th Tournament held July 4 at University Park Country Club. Bo Grady, Jeramy Robertson, Chuck Feldman and Luke Hatanaka (98) won the men’s flight.
Pirates’ grad has pro baseball potential
After a big season at Kentucky, former Braden River High star Ryan Waldschmidt hopes to be a first-round pick in the 2024 MLB Draft.
RYAN KOHN SPORTS EDITOR
Ryan Waldschmidt appears ready for prime time.
Waldschmidt, a former Braden River High baseball player, has seen his star rise over the course of his 2024 college season.
The University of Kentucky junior outfielder had the best year of his career, hitting .333 with 14 home runs, 46 RBIs and 25 steals, while holding a .970 fielding percentage.
He saved his best for Southeastern Conference play, hitting better than .400 against conference foes. The 6-foot-2 Waldschmidt performed well enough to land on Baseball America’s All-American Third Team.
His Wildcats team was equally successful. Waldschmidt’s play helped Kentucky to a 46-16 record.
Kentucky earned a trip to the College World Series in Omaha, Nebraska, for the first time in program history before being eliminated by the University of Florida 5-4 on June 19.
Waldschmidt’s biggest accomplishment might be yet to come. As his play surged and Kentucky found success, his national profile rose and
RYAN WALDSCHMDIT’S YEAR-BY-YEAR NUMBERS
2021 (Braden River High senior): .377 average, four home runs, 20 RBIs, nine walks and 12 stolen bases in 61 atbats 2022 (Charleston Southern freshman): .310 average, five home runs, 43 RBIs, 36 walks and 18 stolen bases in 145 at-bats
2023 (Kentucky sophomore): .290 average, five home runs, 37 RBIs, 35 walks and 17 stolen bases in 200 at-bats
2024 (Kentucky junior): .333 average, 14 home runs, 46 RBIs, 41 walks and 25 stolen bases in 213 at-bats
he caught the eye of MLB scouts.
As the 2024 MLB Draft, held July 14-16 in Fort Worth, Texas, approaches, Waldschmidt is projected to be a high selection. Some analysts believe he will end up a first-round pick. MLB.com ranks Waldschmidt as the No. 23 player in the draft class as of June 30, saying that “few players in this draft can match Waldschmidt’s ability to make contact, avoid chasing pitches and produce high exit velocities.”
Waldschmidt’s dream season almost ended before it began. He suffered a torn ACL in his knee while playing in the Cape Cod League in the summer of 2023 after stepping in a hole in the outfield. Initial reports projected Waldschmidt to miss approximately eight months during the rehabilitation process, which would have seen him return late in the 2024 season.
He refused to let that happen. Waldschmidt knew what was required of him in order to beat the projections and quickly return to the field. As a freshman at Braden River, Waldschmidt — then a catcher — fractured his elbow while making a play at the plate. Waldschmidt said his rehab for that injury required a similar amount of time and helped him mentally prepare for what his knee rehab would be like.
“The first time (you rehab an injury), you tiptoe around things that are new and you are worried about getting hurt again,” Waldschmidt said. “You’re scared of the possibilities, of what could go wrong. But this time, I jumped in 100%. You understand that whatever the doctors clear you to do, you are capable of doing. I gave it everything I had, and I found a lot of success doing that.”
Waldschmidt’s dedication to getting back on the field paid dividends.
He missed the team’s season-opening game against the University of South Carolina Upstate on Feb. 16, but pinch hit in the second game against the Spartans a day later. He made his first start against Texas State University on Feb. 24. After that, he was full go and Waldschmidt ultimately played in 59 of the team’s 62 games, the same number he played in 2023.
He was a part of the best Kentucky team in program history.
“We had a lot of fun,” Waldschmidt said. “We didn’t listen to any outside noise. We all bought into what our coaches believed and the philosophy we were trying to achieve. We were a selfless team. Whatever a game called for in the moment, everyone was capable of getting it done.”
The team’s success led to big fan turnout. Kentucky is known as a basketball school, and Waldschmidt said he understands why — it can be 30 degrees in Lexington, Kentucky, when the baseball season begins, he said, and not many people want to sit in that weather to watch mediocre baseball. But as the team began winning in recent seasons, the fans responded, which Waldschmidt appreciated.
Now, he waits to see when his name will be called in the MLB Draft. Waldschmidt said he has been talking with several teams prior to the draft. Their questions often have less to do with baseball and more to do with figuring out Waldschmidt as a person and how his brain works. Waldschmidt said one team questionnaire asked if he put his peanut butter in the refrigerator. Another asked what he does with his shopping cart after checking out of the grocery store.
Waldschmidt said he is happy to answer those questions. It has been a surreal journey to this point, he said, and he wants it to continue.
The elbow injury he suffered as a Braden River freshman, plus losing the 2020 season to COVID-19, affected his recruitment. He committed to Charleston Southern University out of high school, where he played one season, hitting .310, before transferring to Kentucky. Waldschmidt said not once during that time did he fantasize about being a first-round pick. He was simply trying to play at a high level in college.
He persevered and earned his opportunity, which makes it all the sweeter. “The best stories are never the ones where everything is smooth sailing,” Waldschmidt said. “There are always obstacles. The people who can overcome them are the ones who end up being successful. I have had a lot of support and a lot of people who believed in me, and I hope this is just the beginning.”
— Braden River High’s Lucas Despot SEE PAGE 29
Cardinal Mooney High rising senior
Kali Barrett committed to the Univer-
on July
Courtesy images
Former Braden River High outfielder Ryan Waldschmidt had a big junior season at the University of Kentucky.
Former Braden River High baseball player Ryan Waldschmidt had a breakout junior season at the University of Kentucky, earning AllAmerican Third Team honors from Baseball America.
SPORTS Local soccer enthusiasts excited about Florida Premier’s expansion
League officials say unified goals will help the area’s youth soccer players in the Lakewood Ranch area.
DANI HERNANDEZ
Antonio Saviano, executive director of the new Florida Premier FC SWFL, said the level of soccer play in East County is about to rise to a much higher level.
Saviano cited the merging in March of two well-known soccer clubs, Florida Premier and the Braden River Soccer Club, as the spark that will provide new growth opportunities for area youth soccer players.
While Braden River Soccer Club is an established program, operating in the area since 2001, Florida Premier is a regional powerhouse that has expanded to the Lakewood Ranch for the first time.
“Through the partnership between Braden River Soccer Club and Florida Premier, our goal is to create new pathways for local soccer players to succeed, offering them expanded opportunities for success both on and off the field, and fostering a stronger sense of unity within our soccer community,” Saviano said.
He said in terms of club culture and player development, both organizations are committed to promoting the same values and ideas and look forward to working together to further those goals.
Originally founded as the West Pasco Youth Soccer Association in 1979, Florida Premier has been a Pasco County institution for more than 40 years. As the club has grown over the years into the Tampa Bay area, it has created new partnerships and has continued its expansion into the Lakewood Ranch area.
Florida Premier has fielded
teams for boys and girls in every age level from U7 to U12. At the U7 and U8 age groups, Saviano said the focus is on developing individual ball skills and introducing soccer to the players. The U9s to U12a study the fundamentals of soccer while putting equal emphasis on technical talents.
The senior (U13 to U19) and junior (U7 to U12) teams of Florida Premier have won many titles in traveling competitions, showing the program’s overall success.
Braden River Soccer Club, meanwhile, has been a nonprofit, serving approximately 1,500 boys and girls in the Manatee County area.
In 2023, the Braden River Soccer Club had approximately 75 teams competing in recreational play in
Suncoast Swing Band
Friday, July 19th @ 7pm
Manatee Community Concert Band
Tuesday, August 27th @ 7pm
LWR Wind Ensemble & Choral Artists
Friday, September 27th @ 6pm
age groups from 4-18, while also fielding 38 competitive (traveling) teams in age groups from 8-19.
The merger won’t affect the Braden River Soccer Club’s recreational program, which will remain virtually the same, and keep its same name, under Premier Soccer FC SWF. But Saviano said the opportunities for the traveling league players will increase.
For example, Premier Soccer FC SWFL will be competing in the Girls ECNL (Elite Clubs National League) and ECNL-R (Elite Clubs National League-Regional) and Boys ECNL (Elite Clubs National League) and ECNL-R (Elite Clubs National League-Regional) programs. At the regional and national levels, these programs provide the
top competitive soccer experience for youth players.
Saviano said the Braden River Soccer Club and Florida Premier FC SWFL partnered for a number of strategic reasons.
By combining the resources of the two clubs, Saviano said the program can improve its training programs and coaching personnel, which will benefit local soccer players and benefit the entire soccer community. Through the agreement, the players in Florida Premier FC SWFL will be able to reach a greater geographic audience and provide players with access to more highquality and diversified events, which will further the local players’ development and provide them
with national competition, such as the ECNL.
He said by working together, the two clubs will develop a unified goal and plan, which will improve player development and success on a steady basis. The collaboration intends to give the local soccer community access to a better, more competitive, and well-resourced soccer program.
Some members of the local soccer community were worried the merger would be like a complete takeover, with the Premier Soccer FC SWFL program dominating and making all the decisions. In actuality, Braden River will continue to operate its annual recreational program, while Premier Soccer FC SWFL will offer a more expansive competitive outlet to develop local players, if they decide to go that direction.
Neathan Gibson, director of coaching of Premier Soccer FC SWFL, said the connection with Florida Premier will attract more attention to people in the area who plan to have their children pursue soccer.
“Before the partnership became official in March, a lot of people knew about the Braden River Soccer Club, but people wouldn’t really get hyped up whenever they heard the name of the club,” Gibson said. With new partnerships come new opportunities and new teams. A UPSL squad in Lakewood Ranch was formally unveiled by Florida Premier on June 21. It will compete against other semiprofessional teams in the Florida West Division of the UPSL. Tryouts for Florida Premier FC SWFL will take place Aug. 3-4 at 9 a.m. at Lakewood Ranch Park, 5490 Lakewood Ranch Blvd. Only male players who were born in 2008 or before are eligible to try out.
The Braden River Soccer Club recreational program begins regular play in August.
The stage is set
Sights + Sounds is an outdoor showcase of the best instrumental, visual and performing arts the Sarasota region has to offer. Come out for dinner at the town center and stay to enjoy the show!
Check out all of the events happening around The Ranch!
Dani Hernandez
Neathan Gibson is director of coaching for the new Premier Soccer FC SWFL in East County.
Lucas Despot
Lucas Despot is a rising senior quarterback at Braden River High.
Despot received his first collegiate offer from Shorter University (Rome, Georgia) on June 25. Despot, who is 6-foot-2, threw for 1,619 yards, 18 touchdowns and five interceptions as a junior in 2023.
When did you start playing football?
I started when I was 4. I honestly don’t remember a time when I was not playing football. My entire family played football and watches football.
What is the appeal to you?
I love the team factor of football. You cannot be selfish and win games. You need to play together.
What is your best skill?
Being a leader. I tend to lead by example. I try to be the first person at every practice, and I try to win every competition we have. When everyone trusts you to work hard, it makes everything else easier.
What have you been working to improve?
I’m trying to improve my football IQ. Things like reading defenses and seeing how to pick them apart. The textbook stuff.
What is your favorite football memory?
When I was in fourth grade, I got to play at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, at halftime of a Buccaneers game, through the East Manatee Bulldogs program. I ran in a 30-yard touchdown in front of the whole crowd.
What has the recruiting process been like for you?
It has been slow, to be honest. I’m trying to go to different camps and get in front of people for exposure. But getting that first offer (from Shorter University) helps. I got that call at 9 a.m., and it made my whole day. I was just filled with joy.
If you would like to make a recommendation for the East County Observer’s Athlete of the Week feature, send it to Ryan Kohn at RKohn@ YourObserver.com.
What is your favorite food? New York strip, medium rare. It’s the only way to get it done.
What is your favorite school subject? History. It has always come naturally to me.
What are your hobbies? I like to play ‘Madden.’ My go-to team is the Indianapolis Colts. I actually lived in Indiana before moving here the summer before second grade. I also like to play pickleball with my friends.
What is the best advice you have received?
Hard work beats talent any day of the week. That always stuck with me. I don’t always throw the ball the farthest or the fastest but I can work harder than anyone else, regardless of their skill level.
Finish this sentence: “Lucas Despot is … ” … Independent.
ATHLETE
NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH
DHCAOC, CWF UFOO VX D LVHZDU UAXF TVM WDYF. AC’O D CHDNF-VXX.” OALSFH OVUDLSF GLVJUFO
“NFMJAFM, EM TEXR DZEJW CWGF MEJA, ‘FYFXHCWF JM E TCCW, EWA VEM E AEXR MJAF ZVJGV VF WFYFX MVCZM DC EWHNCAH.’” GEXSH MJTCW
“KJN KJEGDD YL SYK BSYOGSF OJXK’C FYGSF KY JXRRNS KEXGSNU AN KY ZN RENRXENU LYE XSPKJGSF.” XEGXSX FEXSUN
CROSSING THE LINE by Halle Amore Bauer, edited by Jeff Chen
By Luis Campos
ce. No remote work is available.
Competitive pay, paid time off and health insurance available
