Sarasota/Siesta Key Observer 5.14.26

SARASOTA/SIESTA KEY

Crikey! A pair of crocs.

Observer

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YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

VOLUME 22, NO. 40

YOUR TOWN

Main makeover moves along City is ready to show, and hear opinions on, plan to redo the heart of downtown. PAGE 6A

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Go directly to Sarasota Jail

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The Monopoly man is on his way to Sarasota County.

Monopoly: Sarasota County Edition is tipping its top hat to favorite county locations by seeking nominations of established businesses, nonprofits and landmarks to replace squares from Mediterranean Avenue to Boardwalk.

Top Trumps USA is creating the game in 2027 under license.

Instead of the board game’s familiar Atlantic City squares, players will find Sarasota County businesses, nonprofits and landmarks.

Businesses and nonprofits also have the opportunity to be part of the board for life.

Public submissions and business inquiries may be sent to Sarasota@toptrumps.com and online at TopTrumps.us. Look for find Sarasota County under the “Monopoly Nominations” tab.

Ian Swaby Courtesy image

From Sarasota to new heights The impact of a Sarasota woman’s research has gained global attention.

Kayla Taylor, a Ph.D. student at the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach, was named a recipient of the 2026 Zonta International Women in STEM Award in March, receiving a $10,000 grant.

Taylor was nominated by the Zonta Club of Sarasota, which is part of Zonta International.

Taylor’s research focuses on the growing role of artificial intelligence in aviation and aerospace systems, including questions surrounding ethics, accessibility and the future of transportation technology.

She has a bachelor’s degree in astronomy and astrophysics and a master’s in aviation, with a specialization in space studies, from Embry-Riddle.

David Mansfield greets visitors alongside a series of 3D-printed “Star Wars” droids.

Annual SiestaCon stays on target for lovers of comics, costumes and collectibles. SEE PAGE 6B

Stepping in, ready to go

$0.10

Andrew Warfield

Karie Friling got the job of Sarasota city manager Feb. 27, and has visited here several times since.

She doesn’t start until May 29, but Karie Friling is already learning the role of city manager. SEE PAGE 3A

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New Bodies on stage in Sarasota.

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YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

WEEK OF MAY 14, 2026

“It’s sort of like these crocs are friends with benefits, but it’s also really good for them for companionship.”

Airport loop named for Rick Piccolo Airport Circle at Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport now has a new, yet familiar name.

The Sarasota-Manatee Airport Authority has officially renamed the loop around the airport parking lot that serves the passenger terminal to Rick Piccolo Circle, honoring Piccolo for his three decades of service as president and CEO of the airport.

During his 30 years at the helm, the airport experienced significant growth in passenger traffic, major capital improvements and national recognition for operational excellence. Piccolo has also served in leadership roles in state, national and international aviation associations as well as local business and charitable organizations.

Piccolo retired in October.

“Having my name on this street is an incredibly moving and touching way to end my career,” Piccolo said in a news release.

The updated street signs have been installed, and the new Rick Piccolo Circle designation is now active on mapping services for airport access, way finding and traveler navigation.

Alan Gillespie, on the Sarasota Jungle Gardens’ mating pair of American crocodiles. Read more on page 2B

BY THE NUMBERS 3.44 ACRES

The property comprised of 22 parcels planned for an apartment complex on Fruitville Road PAGE 4A

$2.1 MILLION

Received by Sarasota County Schools this week from the Sarasota County Tax Collector’s office PAGE 5A

1.2 MILES

The length of the underdesign Main Street complete street between U.S. 41 and School Avenue PAGE 6A Dana Kampa

CALENDAR

n Sarasota City Commission regular meeting — 9 a.m., Monday, May 18, Commission Chambers, City Hall, 1565 First St. n Sarasota County Commission regular meeting — 9 a.m., Tuesday, May 19, South County Administration Building, 4000 S, Tamiami Trail, Venice n Sarasota Main Street Complete Street Public Workshop — 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, May 21, Selby Library, City Hall, 1331 First St.

Surrounded by members of the Leadership Sarasota Class of 2026, staff from Save Our Seabirds and a cloud of confetti, Lisa Charles cuts the ribbon at the unveiling of an updated outdoor space at the bird sanctuary.

Save Our Seabirds gets volunteer facelift

S

ave Our Seabirds on City Island has received a healthy refresh thanks to the Leadership Sarasota Class of 2026.

The volunteer project at the bird sanctuary and education center — the capstone of the annual program sponsored by the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce — addressed landscaping and outdoor classroom areas.

The Class of 2026 celebrated the renovations with SOS staff during a late April ribbon-cut-

ting ceremony.

Projects included repainting, outfitting the outdoor theater with noise-prevention screening, new interactive signage, additional television screens for use during lectures, tamed greenery and other upgrades.

Save Our Seabirds Executive Director Brian Walton thanked those who volunteered their hours and contributed materials to make the makeover possible.

“Even with your very busy personal and professional lives,

you persevered through this project that was probably a bit challenging at times,” he said.

“Thank you for your effort. This goes way beyond the renovation of a physical space. This really becomes a connecting place, a place where education and inspiration will happen.”

Past Leadership Sarasota projects have included a Serenity Garden at the Glasser/ Schoenbaum Human Services Center and a playground at the Roy McBean Boys and Girls Club.

Ed Hill wins Florida chamber exec award A Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce executive has received a top honor from the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals.

Chamber Vice President Ed Hill recently won the organization’s Professional of the Year Award, which recognizes chamber professionals across the state for their leadership, dedication and lasting impact on their organizations and communities.

Hill was one of two such winners in this year’s voting, finishing in a tie among judges’ scoring with Ardath Prendergast of the Citrus County Chamber of Commerce.

With more than 16 years of service to the chamber industry, Hill has helped shape programs and initiatives that support businesses and strengthen regional connections.

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W HAT ’S HAPPENING

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SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

New city manager begins listening tour Karie Friling has made several fact-finding visits to Sarasota in preparation for assuming her new role as city manager.

ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER

A

lthough she doesn’t start her new job as the next Sarasota city manager until May 29,

Karie Friling has paid several visits since being selected by the City Commission on Feb. 27. She most recently attended a Coalition of City Neighborhood Associations meeting and made a brief appearance in the meeting chamber during the commission’s May 4 meeting.

Between closing out her time as executive director of the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, Illinois, planning for a daughter’s graduation, searching for a place to live here and planning a move, she has been busy the last seven weeks. Still, she took some time to talk with the Observer about her past, present and future professional aspirations as she prepares to assume her new role.

Following are edited excerpts from that conversation.

How did you get your start in public service?

I was born in a very small town of very humble roots. My father was a carpenter, and we lived in a trailer home. We ended up settling in Peoria, Illinois, where I graduated from high school and went away to college. As I was getting my master’s in public administration, there was an opportunity to be an intern. And lo and behold, guess where it was?

Peoria.

That was my start of my public service career on May 31 of 1994 in my hometown where I graduated high school, and I was able to stay there and work my way up to economic development director, which was an honor to be able to serve my hometown.

Why did you move to the Chicago area?

I was in Peoria for well over a decade, and then I was recruited to come up to Orland Park, which is

the southwest hub of the Chicago region. They were really struggling with some customer service and internal cultural issues in a rapidly growing community. They took all these siloed departments that weren’t working well together and they said, ‘We’re going to bring in a new director, and we’re going to create one large super-mega department,’ and it was my job to lead that department. I did that for 13 years, and it was just a great place to raise my kids.

As part of the hiring process here you had conversations with city senior staff. What are your impressions on what you’ve seen?

I know that it’s been a long transition with interims, and I can only imagine the stress of that. As to the organization, I was very impressed.

I got in a day early because I wanted to spend some time by myself, just driving through the neighborhoods and really seeing the city through a different eye, and not as a tourist visiting.

I did have an opportunity to meet with a lot of the staff early on that morning, and I told them if I could spend my whole day with you, I would love to just be able to sit across the table and chat with all of you because I know I have a lot to learn. My takeaways from the staff perspective is we have some really great people. They’re really committed to their jobs. Some of them have very long tenure. That speaks very well to an organization. I also got the sense that they really were anxious to get this position filled, to have some stability. So I’m looking forward to being able to provide that.

You attended a recent CCNA meeting. But during the interview process you also spent time touring the city. What were your takeaways from that?

There’s no doubt that there’s enormous amount of civic pride in Sarasota, the culture and just the variety and diversity in the neighborhoods.

Going in, I wasn’t sure if it would be a good match. You never want to go someplace where it’s going to be not a good match, but I left there feeling like, yeah, this could be home.

Sarasota has a large number of retirees who were successful professionals, which means they bring a lot of intellectual capital and they like to be involved. How do you regard tapping into those resources?

Being able to bring their expertise into the various committees that the board has already set up and some of the big issues you’re dealing with, I think that they should be seen as a resource. That doesn’t mean that every single time we’re going to see eye to eye on things, but my door is always open to that. It’s really about listening and understanding the lens that they see something through, and the fact that we do have so many of them I

Courtesy photo

New City Manager Karie Friling discusses the site plan for the new DuPage Wildlife Conservation Center in her role as with Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, Illinois.

Courtesy image

think is something that’s unique, because a lot of communities don’t have that.

What do you see as Sarasota’s niche in the central Gulf Coast region?

Sarasota has a nationally recognized, I would even say international, reputation because you get such high rankings on your beaches.

I think your niche is you’re always going to be a tourism attraction.

You get a lot of revenue off of that, and that’s not a bad thing. But we are an aging country, and what we have to do is figure out what’s right for the next generation that’s coming behind. I’m going to want to dig a little bit deeper with the economic development organizations to find what, besides tourism, is your core business model? Where are your jobs coming from besides that?

And what do you think so far?

I know healthcare is a driver, so I’m going to be curious to listen and learn more about that. You are also known as a cultural gem, and you have so many cultural resources there. And I know that there’s been a lot of conversation about the performing arts center that’s being proposed, and I don’t know enough to give you what my opinion is on that yet.

What are your thoughts about the affordable housing efforts and efforts to grow that in the within the city?

I support 100% whatever I can do to help that happen. It’s not just needed there, it’s needed everywhere. But I have a lot of experience in affordable housing, and I also have a lot of experience with some people who don’t want affordable housing in their backyard.

I believe that we must have mixed-income housing. I believe in affordable housing. I believe there is a role for government in that. And I think that when there is a gap that needs to be filled that can’t be done by the private sector — or even by HUD or the federal government — that there is a responsibility at the local level to try to figure out how to help because those are our residents, and we want them to be able to afford to live in our beautiful city.

Hiring for such positions in Florida is a very public process, How did your current employer feel about you traveling here for the finalists interview process?

I went into my president’s office, Daniel Hebreard, and we talked it through. I was on the fence, and I said, “I love it here.” And he said, “We love you. We don’t want you to leave, but if you don’t go down there and do this, you’re going to regret it, and you’re going to always wonder, what if.” It was because of my current boss who encouraged me. That speaks a lot to the organization there, too, which I’m going to miss greatly, as well.

You have said Sarasota is an ideal place for you to conclude your career. Looking back, how do you feel about your life dedicated to public service?

I’ve experienced a lot of things in three decades of being a public servant. I think it is the most noble of professions. I know a lot of people don’t agree with that, but I will believe that until the day I die.

AND ANOTHER THING ...

Since accepting the city manager position, more key senior staff have left City Hall. Deputy City Manager Patrick Robinson has announced his retirement effective May 26 and Economic Development Manager Wayne Applebee has left to work for Sarasota County.

That’s in addition to the human resources director position, which has been empty since February when Stacie Mason’s employment with the city ended.

When you arrive, you will face replacement of three key positions.

What is your time frame for those appointments?

These positions are critical to the city’s success, so I plan on getting it right as opposed to “right now.”

The positions will not be posted until I arrive, which will allow me to work with our staff to properly market, promote and recruit.

I have been very impressed with Jennifer Jorgensen, who is currently serving as the interim city manager until I arrive.

We have been meeting at least weekly, if not more, via Teams for the past month, and I will continue to ask her to work with me during my on-site transition.

You have made several “whirlwind trips” to Sarasota since being named city manager.

What are you accomplishing during those visits?

I have been investing a significant amount of time reviewing documents, communicating with staff and the commissioners, and reading news stories and watching board meetings. My trip in early May was an opportunity to attend the CCNA meeting and engage with many of our residents and neighborhood groups. I think I personally spoke to more than 50 residents and staff members that morning. I was also at City Hall on May 5 for the commission meeting and then took care of some necessary onboarding paperwork.

As I shared with staff, residents and the commissioners, I am listening for recurring themes around consensus issues, plans or projects. This is helping me better understand how to prioritize competing priorities, which will be critical for not only my success but for the city’s future success, as well.

Karie Friling officially begins her job as Sarasota city manager on May 29, but she has visited the city several times since being hired in February.

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t the start of their presentation to the city’s Development Review Committee on May 6, representatives of land planning consulting firm Kimley-Horn expressed their hope for partial signoff of the project with the working name of 1899 Fruitville Road.

That’s the multifamily development that would occupy the block of Fruitville Road and Fourth Street between Gillespie and North Osprey avenues, replacing the rainbow row of bungalows occupied by small businesses and restaurants.

Although progress was made since the project’s first submittal on March 18, enough outstanding technical matters remained to require a third submittal of the project to the full committee of city development oversight staff.

Bristol Development Group of Franklin, Tennessee, proposes to build a five-story, 324-unit residential project on the 3.44-acre site that covers 22 parcels separating Fruitville Road from the Gillespie Park neighborhood. Those parcels include one residence and businesses such as The Breakfast House and German restaurant Siegfried’s.

The project will include 36 attainable housing units.

The developer requests administrative site plan approval plus three adjustments. Zoned Downtown Edge with a future land use designation of Urban Edge, no rezoning is requested and, because the site is within a downtown zone district, approval

APPROVAL FOR 7-ELEVEN SOUGHT ON U.S. 41 Also requiring a third submittal to the full Development Review Committee is a proposal for a 7-Eleven on the site of a former drug store at 3535 N. Tamiami Trail.

Making its second appearance before the DRC on May 6 was a 4,852-square-foot convenience store with 10 fueling stations and 29 parking spaces on the 1.56-acre lot at the southwest corner of North Tamiami Trail and Myrtle Street.

A rendering of 1899 Fruitville from the corner of North Osprey Avenue and Fruitville Road.

will not include the public process unless a denial of any adjustments results in an appeal to the Planning Board.

Requested adjustments include a reduction of 5% of the parallel facade requirement along Fourth Street to preserve two grand trees; a reduction of the required 20-foot habitable space depth at two locations adjacent to the parking garage access fronting Fruitville Road and Fourth Street for a pedestrian corridor at one location and vehicle access to the parking garage; and relief from the primary street prohibition of structured parking in the second layer on Fruitville Road and Fourth Street.

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SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

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School-tax fee reversal in motion Sarasota County is ready to reassume responsibility for paying the tax collector’s 2% commission, but question remains on whether it should be charged at all.

ERIC GARWOOD DIGITAL NEWS EDITOR

S

arasota County on Monday delivered to the Sarasota County Tax Collector’s office a pathway through which a contested $2 million in tax-collection commission would be returned to Sarasota County Schools from excess funds, and county commissioners could adopt it next week.

By the end of the day, money was on the way.

A formal vote on the proposed longer-term solution could take place as early as May 19, when Sarasota County commissioners meet next. The agreement, in a resolution put forth by County Administrator Jonathan Lewis, would expire when the current voter-approved millage expires in 2030.

Still in question is whether charging up to a 2% fee on the school district’s voter-approved property tax is a mandate or discretionary.

The May 11 email from County Attorney Joshua Moye recommends to Tax Collector Mike Moran’s office to “please utilize a portion of the anticipated excess funds from the commissions presently held by the Tax Collector from the collection of the general county millage in place of the commissions collected from voted school board millage for Fiscal Year 2026 (Tax Year 2025).

“This would allow the tax collector to return the commissions collected from the voted school board millage to the School Board. The county will need an accounting of the commissions collected from both the general county millage as well as the voted school board millage. Additionally,

when the tax collector closes out the expenses for the current fiscal year, the county’s coverage of the commission for the voted school board millage will be included as a countypaid commission when determining the proportional return of the excess funds to be distributed.”

An email from Lewis to Superintendent Terry Connor refers to the unique situation in which the three government agencies find themselves. “To the best of our knowledge not only has the county never had this situation, but we could also not find anyone else who had this situation. Figuring out the details of how to unwind was not straight forward, there was no rewind button.”

In the past seven days, the appropriateness of the tax collector’s 2% fee on the school tax and who is responsible for paying it has taken center stage after more than two decades of the county paying the tab.

■ Last August, at Moran’s urging, the Sarasota County Commission unanimously authorized shifting the financial responsibility for the fee to the school district, upending 23 years of practice.

■ In mid-April, Superintendent Terry Connor delved into the issue at a luncheon hosted by the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, telling area business leaders the tax fee would cost the district $2.2 million in one year and around $10 million over four years. At the time, he said the school district’s legal team was considering options.

■ In late April, the school board filed a lawsuit, claiming that common practice, one that had been supported by Moran as a County Commissioner, was to deliver the

Ian Swaby

full amount of the tax revenue to the school district. “Each voted millage election was preceded by a campaign in which the voters were specifically told on numerous occasions that every penny of the voted millage would go to specifically enumerated purposes to improve Sarasota County schools,” the lawsuit contends. “Furthermore, this fact was supported by two decades of settled law and practice of every penny of the voted millage going to Sarasota County schools.’’ The lawsuit also claims the fee is not a legal obligation but rather a discretionary one.

■ In early May, Moran issued an op-ed piece to several Sarasota County publications, writing, “This is not a matter of opinion or preference; it is a matter of legal obligation. I fully recognize that there is a difference of opinion on this issue.

The Sarasota County School Board believes the county should continue absorbing this cost. I respect their position, even as I disagree with it.”

■ Last week, following a statement from Commissioner Tom Knight on the topic, county commissioners voted 3-2 to reverse their August vote and reassume the responsibility of paying the fee, though details remained on exactly how that would work in the short term and beyond.

Knight also wondered aloud if com-

R E I M AG I N E YO U R S PAC E

missioners in August had assumed too much in agreeing to Moran’s accounting of the costs. “It’s never too late to change a mistake,” Commissioner Mark Smith said May 5.

■ A day later, in a flurry of emails between the tax collector’s office and Sarasota County Schools attorney Dan DeLeo, DeLeo accused the tax collector’s office of “playing games” and “gaslighting the taxpayers” while Moran connected with County Administrator Jonathan Lewis saying “Please note, that we will continue to collect commissions, calculate interest and return excess funds according to state statute until we receive a formal agreement and clear direction from both parties.’’ DeLeo also requested immediate payment of about $2 million in fees. On Tuesday, the school district and tax collector’s office confirmed the receipt of $2,149,558.86 by Tuesday.

DeLeo told the Observer this week he plans to tell the School Board that the district was successful in not only recovering the contested $2.1 million, but also shifting the cost of future fees to the county.

“But you need to negotiate some clarity about how long the county commission is going to pay it so we have certainty,” he said. “Hopefully, we can all get together and get a legislative solution.”

Sarasota Schools Superintendent Terry Connor speaks during the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce’s State of the Community luncheon in April.

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SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

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MAIN ST.

INCOMPLETE COMPLETE STREETS

Andrew Warfield

Among the proposals for the Main Street complete street project includes converting dozens of angle parking spaces to parallel parking.

What should Main Street look like in 20 years?

The public will get its first look at proposed design concepts for the Main Street complete street project at a May 21 workshop.

HAVE YOUR SAY The Main Street Complete Street Project public meeting will be held 5:30-7 p.m. at the Selby Library’s Jack J. Geldbart Auditorium, 1331 First St.

ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER

W

hat Main Street in downtown Sarasota should look like depends on who you ask.

For merchants, it should have convenient parking for customers directly outside their doors. For visitors, walkability may be most important. Or perhaps it should be a part-time pedestrian mall.

Whatever the vision, the public will get its first official look at the developing plan for the city’s Main

Street Complete Street project during a public meeting at 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, May 21, at Selby Library.

There, the city says, the public is “invited to shape how Main Street will look, feel and function for years to come.” Participants will have an opportunity to: ■ Explore design concepts ■ Share their input ■ Help shape the future of Main Street “We are going to give backgrounds

of the visioning exercise from community outreach that we’ve done so far while also sharing the progress that we’ve made since the beginning,” said Chief Transportation Planner Corinne Arriaga. “What we are going to present to the public is different concepts of what the look and feel of Main Street would be — really the aesthetics of it — which wasn’t covered in visioning.

“Now we’re looking at full thematic concepts of what people really want to see out on Main Street for the next 20 years.”

A complete street concept is a roadway designed to provide multimodal options for users including motorists, pedestrians, bicyclists and transit riders. That means wider sidewalks, redesigned street crossings, speed control elements and more. Some of those measures, as emerged from the visioning process,

To date, only one complete street project has been delivered in the city — Ringling Boulevard between Lime Avenue and U.S. 41.

With a $12 million federal grant secured, Chief Transportation Planner Corinne Arriaga said discussions are under way with the U.S. Department of Transportation on a grant agreement that would clear the way for negotiations to design and build the 10th Street and Boulevard of the Arts complete street projects.

That project is at the 60% design stage. The $12 million grant plus the city’s $3 million match will pay to advance the design to 100% and fund construction costs.

“If all things are great and they don’t want us to revise anything, we could potentially have an agreement to the City Commission by the end of the year,” Arriaga said. “That’s if all things go according to plan, which we’ve been told really never happens.”

require a reduction of on-street parking on some blocks by converting angle parking to space-saving parallel spaces, perhaps the most controversial aspect of the plan.

Merchants argue that fewer park-

ing spaces closer to their businesses will result in a loss of customers.

Compete streets also address aesthetics such as pavement materials, landscaping and other human-scale features. The workshop, Arriaga said, will provide opportunity for the public to provide input on the current schemes.

“Everything is really conceptual at this point,” she said. “There are visuals to give people ideas of how we want the hardscaping would look, what the Florida-friendly and Florida-native plant palette is going to be and how the plantings are dispersed through the corridor.”

The Main Street project covers the 1.2 miles between U.S. 41 and School Avenue. The visioning process was completed on Sept. 2, 2025, when the Sarasota City Commission approved by a 4-1 vote advancing the project to the planning and design phase in partnership with land use consulting firm Kimley-Horn. Commissioner Jen Ahearn-Koch cast the dissenting vote, citing the potential loss of some 100 parking spaces.

Arriaga is encouraging robust public engagement.

“It’s really important for people to show up and provide their thoughts and feedback on this because the outcome of this will be a final concept that hopefully gets implemented for the next 20 to 30 years,” she said. “This will really reflect the community’s desire for the look and feel of Main Street for many years to come, so we hope people get engaged and share their feedback that’s constructive so we can develop a final solution that the community love.”

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SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

OPINION / MY VIEW

SARASOTA/SIESTA KEY

Lessons on how not to do it The Sarasota tax collector-school board dispute has reached a partial resolution. Taking the high road can bring it to the best ending.

MATT WALSH

A

t the time of this writing, the Sarasota County tax collector and Sarasota County administration have reached a partial resolution over who owes what commissions to the tax collector.

Yay, it was in the school board’s favor.

Sarasota County Administrator Jonathan Lewis emailed School Superintendent Terry Connor at 4:56 p.m. Monday confirming the resolution.

Refunded to the Sarasota County School District Monday and Tuesday was $2,149,558.86.

The disputed $2 million was to be taken from the tax collector’s excess cash that typically goes to Sarasota County at the end of the fiscal year. That, of course, will leave the county, not the school board, with less cash than it previously budgeted. That draw down, in turn, will have a domino effect on the county, but that’s another side issue.

As Lewis told Superintendent Connor in his email: “Figuring out the details of how to unwind was not straightforward; there was no rewind button.”

Thank the tax collector for that.

For the moment, let’s just call this a win for the school district.

Objective One was accomplished — getting its money back. Objective Two was accomplished: Having the County Commission rescind its August 2025 decision, which shifted the cost of a tax collector commission to the school district.

Objective Three, however, remains unresolved. That is: How will this tax collector commission dispute be handled annually going forward?

The answer could be in the board’s lawsuit sitting on the docket of 12th Circuit Court Judge Hunter Carroll.

Because he filed the suit, we asked school board attorney Dan DeLeo whether the school board will pursue the suit to an ultimate judicial ruling.

“I’m going to say to them (the school board) … you need to negotiate some clarity about how long the County Commission is going to pay (the commission) so we have certainty.

“Hopefully, we can all get together … Governments shouldn’t be suing each other. They should be working stuff out. And that’s our first plan, not to litigate.”

So, as the cliché goes, that puts the ball in Moran’s court.

Asked his intention, Moran did not respond before press time.

On the one hand, you can make a case for taking the school district lawsuit to its ultimate end. That could/would definitively settle the matter — not who is right, but how a judge interprets the law. Chaching, cha-ching go the legal fees.

While such a ruling may clarify the matter, you can also see how a fully argued lawsuit ultimately would have lasting effects — tender scars and animosities among these government bodies. Even if Moran wins — giving him the option to charge a commission on the collection of the district’s voter-approved school tax — Moran would forever after be dubbed the tax collector who robbed Sarasota schools to build his tax collector empire.

On the other hand, there is a

MORAN VIDEO SCRIPT V. THE FLORIDA STATUTE

Friedrich Hayek

“Road to Serfdom,” 1944

Editor’s note: The following is the script from a video that Sarasota Tax Collector Mike Moran released last week.

The New York-based Lou Hammond Group public relations firm produced the video.

“There has been much misinformation in press related to the school board and how fees are to be paid to the tax collector’s office.

“This informational video will provide detail and background that we hope is helpful to the public in understanding the history of this issue.

“Every year, the tax collector in Sarasota County collects billions of dollars of taxes on behalf of hundreds of taxing authorities.

“Examples of taxing authorities include: Sarasota County government, fire districts, stormwater assessments and the Sarasota County School District.

“All these taxing authorities are mandated by Florida statute to pay a fee to the tax collector to cover the expenses of running the tax collector’s office.

“The state of Florida calls these fees commissions. Again, these commissions are mandated by Florida law.

“The school board’s commissions are a little different than most taxing authorities. A majority of the school board’s commissions are mandated by Florida law to be paid by the Sarasota County Commission.

“But a portion of the school board’s commissions are mandated to be paid by the

more magnanimous approach that could defuse animosities and actually elevate Moran’s standing in Sarasota County: Take the high road.

Admit you misjudged the issue and the will of the voters, and announce that the tax collector’s office will go back to the way the system worked for 23 years — but with a reasonable proviso. As DeLeo says: The tax collector, Sarasota County Commission and School Board would work together to create a satisfactory interlocal agreement on tax collector commissions.

Call it the adult thing to do.

That takes leadership — and a dose of humility.

Like the recent humility of Sarasota County Commissioner Tom Knight.

‘THAT’S ON US’

Knight did the rarest of actions last week coming from a politician. He admitted regret for his action and admitted making a mistake.

At the commission’s May 5 meeting, Knight said he regretted his vote in August 2025 on the tax collector-school board issue.

He said he and his fellow board members erred when they took information from Moran at face value without checking.

“We never saw an accounting of the actual costs of the collection of the money,” Knight said to his fellow commissioners. “The tax collector didn’t offer the information, and neither did our staff. But none of us here asked for that, and neither did I. And I believe

MORAN’S PR FIRM Sarasota Tax Collector Mike Moran said his contract with the Lou Hammond Group took effect Jan. 1, 2026, when he began his term.

Moran said LHG responded to a request for proposal in late 2025. “LHG was the most responsible and responsive bidder, as well as meeting the evaluation criteria …” LHG also represents “Visit Sarasota.”

The tax collector is paying LHG $8,000 a month. “Worth noting,” Moran said, the school board is spending $1.4 million a year on communications and government affairs.

Moran said his new video cost $385.42.

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

President and Publisher / Emily Walsh, EWalsh@YourObserver.com Executive Editor and COO / Kat Wingert, KWingert@YourObserver.com

‘MANDATE’ NOT IN THE STATUTE F.S. 192.091: Commissions of property appraisers and tax collectors.

■ “(2) The tax collectors of the several counties of the state shall be entitled to receive, upon the amount of all real and tangible personal property taxes and special assessments collected and remitted, the following commissions … ”

school board.

“The new tax collector for Sarasota County uncovered that the portion of the ‘commission’ that was to be paid by the school board was actually being paid by the Sarasota County Commission.

“It appears that the Sarasota County government was paying this commission for almost 24 years.

“Important! It has also been reported in the press that this is a new commission to the tax collector. This is not a new commission. The tax collector’s office has simply ensured that the existing commission is applied to

that was a mistake. That’s on us.”

Knight last week triggered the motion to rescind the commission’s 5-0 vote from last August, in which the commission said it would no longer continue its 23-year practice of covering the school board’s tax collector commission.

Continued Knight: “I believe the residents believe their money was to be used entirely for the benefit of the education of the children, not for the tax collector’s office … I wish I would have asked more questions last August.”

That is all it would have taken to avoid what has since transpired.

So, in hindsight, some shame goes to the commissioners. They took Mike Moran at his word.

But no surprise there. When you watched Moran make his presentations to the commissioners last summer, you could see the commissioners giving him deference and light-hearted, chummy greetings. After all, Moran was one of them for the previous eight years. Why shouldn’t they believe and trust him?

Sorry, but this is the truth: Mike Moran is a politician. And if you’ve had experience with any politician, you know that behind every issue, there are influencing factors they don’t tell you. They’re always playing poker, never revealing all they know and what’s in their hand.

“Honest politician”? No such thing.

Which brings us to trust and misinformation, Moran’s “misinformation.”

‘ENTITLED,’ NOT ‘MANDATED’

“My oath of office isn’t a suggestion, it is a binding promise to every taxpayer that I will follow Florida law, even when it is politically inconvenient.”

That was Moran’s opening last week in the Observer in response to our April 30 report on this dispute.

But the thing is, he has been the one misleading the public.

Throughout this dispute, Moran has said he is “mandated by law” to collect a commission on the voterapproved, school ad valorem tax.

“There is a current dispute regarding the state-mandated commission charged by the Tax Collector’s Office to the School Board,” Moran wrote. “Let me be clear: This is not a new fee, and it is required by law … This is not a matter of opinion or preference; it is a matter of legal obligation.”

(Editor: bold-face added)

Courtesy images

Above are two images from the tax collector’s video, produced by the Lou Hammond Group public relations firm.

the correct entity as required by Florida law.

“The new tax collector notified the school board and the Sarasota County Commission asking for clarification if the Sarasota County government wanted to continue paying the commission that is legally the responsibility of the school board.

“The Sarasota County Commission voted unanimously to stop paying the school board’s portion of the commission.

“As a result, the Sarasota County tax collector is now collecting the school board commission as required by Florida law.

“The Sarasota County Commission voted unanimously to stop paying the school board’s portion of the commission.”

But here is how Florida Statute 192.091 is written (see box above): “The tax collectors of the several counties of the state shall be entitled to receive … the following commissions …”

“Entitled,” not “mandated.”

“Entitled to receive,” not “shall receive.”

Moran went on to push his mandate idea further and that he is just following the rule of law when he hired the New York-based public relations firm, Lou Hammond Group, to produce a video intended to help the public understand the history of the issue.

As you can see in the box, the script makes four references to the tax collector being “mandated” to collect the school commission and two references to his office being “required by law” to collect the commissions.

This is propaganda. Who among the public knows what statute 192.091 says? Watching Moran’s video, any innocent taxpayer would be easily swayed to believe that every word is fact. What’s more, Moran and the video make the point of accusing the press and others of being the ones spreading “misinformation.”

It’s all too much.

Yes, taxpayers want and expect their tax collectors always to follow the rule of law. But, equally, they want from them truth and trust.

THE RIGHT THING, RIGHT WAY

As this dispute progresses, hopefully to a sensible end, you can lessons surfacing and useful for the future.

One we already noted: Always take the high road.

Another is from business guru Stephen Covey: “Do the right thing, the right way, for the right reasons.”

And then there is this — lessons and wisdom from a Tampa business psychologist and coach. When there is disagreement or conflict, don’t email; talk face to face. Be a learner, not a judger — ask questions. (“Can you help me understand why?”

“I’m having trouble understanding.

What would happen if we did X?” “How do you think this could be addressed?” “Here’s what I’m hoping to do; can we get there in a way that makes sense?”)

Had all that been done, none of where we are would have occurred.

Sports Reporter / Jack Nelson, JNelson@ YourObserver.com Staff Writers / Ian Swaby, ISwaby@ YourObserver.com; Andrew Warfield, AWarfield@YourObserver.com Digital News Analytics and Marketing Strategist / Kaelyn Adix, KAdix@YourObserver.com Digital News Editor / Eric Garwood, EGarwood@YourObserver.com Copy Editor / Gina Reynolds Haskins, GRHaskins@YourObserver.com Senior Editorial Designer / Melissa Leduc, MLeduc@YourObserver.com Editorial Designer / Jenn Edwards, JEdwards@YourObserver.com A+E Editor / Monica Roman Gagnier, MGagnier@YourObserver.com Chief Revenue Officer / Jill Raleigh, JRaleigh@YourObserver.com Advertising Director / Penny Nowicki, PNowicki@YourObserver.com Senior Sales Executive / Richeal McGuinness, RMcGuinness@ YourObserver.com; Toni Perren, TPerren@ YourObserver.com Advertising Executives / Jennifer Kane, JKane@YourObserver.com; Honesty Mantkowski, HMantkowski@ YourObserver.com; Toni Perren, TPerren@ YourObserver.com; Marcus Ponce, MPonce@YourObserver.com; Anna Reich, Anna@YourObserver.com; Brenda White, BWhite@YourObserver.com Classified Advertising Sales Executive / Sydney Schunk, SSchunk@YourObserver. com Head of Sales Operations / Susan Leedom, SLeedom@YourObserver.com Account Managers / Lori Downey, LDowney@YourObserver.com; Caitlin Ellis, CEllis@YourObserver.com Advertising and Event Coordinator / Marisa Merlino, MMerlino@YourObserver. com Director of Strategic Growth / Kathleen O’Hara, KOHara@YourObserver.com Strategic Marketing Coordinator / Landyn Park, LPark@YourObserver.com Social Media and Content Manager / Emma Burke, EBurke@YourObserver.com Tributes Coordinator / Kristen Boothroyd, Tributes@YourObserver.com Director of Creative Services and IT / Caleb Stanton, CStanton@YourObserver. com Creative Services Administrator / Marjorie Holloway, MHolloway@ 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 Controller / Rafael Labrin, RLabrin@ YourObserver.com Office and Accounting Coordinator / Donna Condon, DCondon @YourObserver.com

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SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

The fate of USF Sarasota Manatee depends on the legislative action occurring in just a few weeks. Part of the House budget negotiations include a USFSM shutdown and the transfer of buildings to New College as of July 1, 2026. The Senate budget keeps our hometown university.

We implore you to support the Senate position.

For months, students, parents, business leaders, educators, veterans and concerned residents have spoken with one unmistakable voice: Do not close our hometown campus. Nearly 350 community members gathered at a public forum in March, delivering a resounding message — shutting down USFSM to pursue New College’s goals is unnecessary and unjustified.

In addition to the local voices, USF systemwide constituencies strongly oppose closing the campus. This opposition has been clearly expressed by the Campus Board, which is statutorily authorized to represent the campus and works with the USF Board of Trustees, who themselves voiced opposition when the shutdown was announced in December. Notably, the Board of Trustees never formally considered or discussed ending USF’s 50-year presence in Sarasota-Manatee. The broader University of South Florida community — including the Faculty Senate and systemwide student government — has also passed resolutions opposing the closure, citing the campus’ vital role within the system.

There has been no meaningful community input, no financial justification, and no viable plan to replace the affordable, high-quality education USF Sarasota-Manatee provides. The campus serves nearly 2,000 degree-seeking students, more than 2,000 dual-enrollment high school students and over 600 veterans who rely on its comprehensive support services. It trains nurses, teachers, cybersecurity professionals, hospitality leaders, and other in-demand talent — serving as a cornerstone of our

This letter was signed by 37 current and former USF faculty, board members, administrators, business, campus and community leaders.

Stop the fox in the chicken coop I devoured every word and chart of your April 30 opinion regarding the 2% millage that was shifted from its intended purpose (education) to fund Mike Moran’s goals (not voter approved).

Hallelujah, I thought! Someone is watching this fox in the chicken coop!

I also have great appreciation for Sarasota County Commissioner Tom Knight (seconded by Commissioners Joe Neunder and Mark Smith), who acknowledged and halted this terrible practice. It appears that justice prevails over the crafty fox!

And again I say, hallelujah!

JANN WEBSTER SARASOTA

SOMETHING TO SAY? Send your letters to Kat Wingert at KWingert@YourObserver.com.

SATURDAY, APRIL 4

FIGHT RUINS WOMAN’S NAILS 1:08 a.m., 1500 block of First Street Fight: Another demonstration that little good happens after midnight resulted in the arrest of one man on multiple charges related to a fight.

Several officers were engaged in dispersing a scuffle between two men who were handcuffed and separated as the investigation into the incident ensued.

Both men told officers they did not wish to prosecute the other for the mutual combat situation, but eventually were left with no choice in the matter.

One combatant’s female companion repeatedly attempted to insert herself into the fracas, and was described in the incident report as extremely intoxicated. Although she had noticeable scratches on her arms, she did not wish to speak with officers.

Although both men, who were heavily intoxicated, were not initially cooperative, one officer coaxed the man who was eventually arrested into stating he was hit by the other man and, when his female companion got involved, pushed but did not strike her “as he did not want to hurt her,” according to the report.

The other man then chimed in, “He ruined her nails. … You shoved me you piece of (euphemism for excrement)!”

Based on the totality of the circumstances, officers determined probable cause to arrest the nail-ruining man on charges of disorderly intoxication and battery. The other man walked away.

SUNDAY, APRIL 5

SCREECHING BEACH PREACHING 7:12 p.m., 2200 block of Benjamin Franklin Drive Disturbance: Responding to a call about a disturbance at Ted Sperling Park, officers found a woman yelling at bystanders watching sunset.

Using an amplification device, the woman was shouting comments of an “apocalyptic biblical nature,” according to the incident report. She was described as clad in a brown robe with a rope belt and a tallit — a Jewish prayer shawl — draped over her head. Sitting on the beach nearby was the woman’s husband, who was informed her behavior was classified as a breach of peace.

He responded by attempting to calm the woman, which didn’t work.

The husband then suggested several times that perhaps the best course of action was for police to shoot her.

The woman was cuffed and began to resist, screaming that officers were breaking her arm, that God had forsaken her. The woman was taken to Sarasota Memorial Hospital under the Marchman Act.

MONDAY, APRIL 6

ROLLING RUMBLE 11:15 p.m., 3400 block of North Tamiami Trail Disturbance: Two men were ap-

parently fighting in the front seat of a moving vehicle that eventually stopped in the median. That is where two officers responded to a call from a third party, who saw the incident, describing the SUV as slowly rolling out of a parking lot and into the median as a passenger was on top of the driver, engaged in fisticuffs.

While speaking with the now-apparent victim, officers observed his right eye as red and surrounded by scratches, and red markings on his back. He stated he was went to the store to buy cigarettes when an approximately 18-year-old male pulled up and asked him if he wanted to buy “weed,” an offer he declined. The man then asked him to purchase wraps for him, setting off an argument when he refused.

The man told officers he had $3,500 in cash in his pocket — proceeds from selling a vehicle for work — which he surmised the assailant was able to see. He said the man exited his vehicle, grabbed the cash and, as he attempted to re-enter his vehicle the scuffle ensued.

Jumping into the vehicle, he proceeded to choke the man he claimed purloined his cash.

Video footage of the incident confirmed the victim’s story.

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COPS CORNER

Dear Local Delegation, Speaker Perez, and President Albritton,

region’s workforce pipeline in a way no other institution does.

The business community has spoken just as clearly. The Manatee, Sarasota and Venice Chambers of Commerce, together with the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance, have all expressed strong opposition, emphasizing that USFSM is vital to our region’s economic strength and future workforce.

USFSM is also the responsible financial choice. A Florida DOGE report shows USF spends about $72,000 per degree, while New College spends nearly $500,000 per degree. USFSM and New College have coexisted for 25 years, each with a distinct mission; sacrificing USFSM is totally unnecessary.

We urge you to listen to the community and the constituencies that are most affected by this shutdown and support the Senate budget position.

LETTERS

Don’t turn USFSM over to New College

The Edit | Copenhagen Imports 50 S Palm Ave, Sarasota 941-899-3565 Tues.-Sat. 10-6

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

11A

SARASOTA’S DEFINING ADDRESS A curated collection of 86 private residences in the heart of downtown Sarasota.

Sales Gallery: 1605 Main Street Sarasota, FL 34236

WAresidencessarasota.com 941 919 5264

ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING THE REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS BROCHURE AND THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. Artist’s renderings, dimensions, specifications, prices, availability, and features are approximate and subject to change at any time without notice.

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Waldorf Astoria is a registered trademark of Hilton International Holding LLC, an affiliate of Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. (together with its affiliates, “Hilton”). The Waldorf Astoria Residences Sarasota are not owned, developed, or sold by Hilton, and Hilton does not make any representations, warranties or guaranties whatsoever with respect to the Waldorf Astoria Residences Sarasota or the related development project. The Owner uses the Waldorf Astoria brand name and certain Waldorf Astoria trademarks (the “Trademarks”) under a limited, non-exclusive, non-transferable license from Hilton. The license may be terminated or may expire without renewal, in which case the Waldorf Astoria Residences Sarasota will not be identified as a Waldorf Astoria branded project and the Owner will not have any rights to use the Trademarks.

MAY 14, 2026

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

An opera for our times Artist Series Concerts and ensembleNewSRQ join forces for Matthew Aucoin’s ‘Music for New Bodies.’

MONICA ROMAN GAGNIER ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

I

f you go to see an opera in Sarasota, chances are you’re not going to spot the composer in

the orchestra pit or in the audience. The Sarasota Opera has made its name producing the operas of Guiseppe Verdi and other composers who lived during the last millennium. But Sarasota opera aficionados will get a chance to see a modern opera and its creators when Artist Series Concerts and ensembleNewSRQ team up to present “Music for New Bodies” on May 22 at the Sarasota Opera House.

Arts patrons will spot some familiar faces on stage for the opera.

Sarasota Orchestra concertmaster Daniel Jordan will play violin alongside Samantha Bennett, a former orchestra member who co-founded ensembleNewSRQ with her husband, percussionist George Nickson, also a Sarasota Orchestra alum.

Nickson will conduct “Music for New Bodies,” which made its world premiere in Houston in 2024 and was performed last year at Lincoln Center in New York City.

What’s got culture vultures worked up into a frenzy is that this production will feature the two collaborators who created “Music for New Bodies’ based on the poetry of Jorie Graham and the environmentalist Rachel Carson. That’s right: Composer Matthew Aucoin and Director Peter Sellars are coming to town to stage this production.

If you know, you know. But if you don’t, Aucoin was the recipient of a MacArthur Fellowship, an award for creative geniuses that now comes with $800,000 cash grant. He’s commissioned operas for the Metropolitan Opera and the Lyric Opera of Chicago. He teamed up with Sellars to create “Music for New Bodies” for five vocalists and an 18-piece orchestral ensemble.

Sellars, whose credits include operatic collaborations with John Adams, Tyshawn Sorey and the late Kaija Saariaho, will serve as the director of “Music for New Bodies,” which will be presented in Sarasota for one night only.

The vocal soloists are soprano Meredith Wohlgemuth, soprano Meryl Dominguez, mezzo-soprano Elana Belle, tenor Daniel McGrew and bass baritone Jonathan Woody.

Part of the reason why excitement has reached such a fevered pitch is that it’s a year of big anniversaries in Sarasota. Among them are the 100th anniversary of the MediterraneanRevival masterpiece, the Sarasota Opera House. It’s also the 40th anniversary of Artist Series Concerts, where Jordan is director of artistic programming, and the 10th anniversary of enSRQ, shorthand for ensembleNewSRQ. Over the years, enSRQ has made First Congregational Church its main venue for concerts of contemporary classical music, loosely defined as having been written in the past 50 years. It’s a big deal for

Photo courtesy of Matthew Holler

IF YOU GO ‘MUSIC FOR NEW BODIES’ When: 7:30 p.m. on Friday, May 22 Where: Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave. Tickets: $50-$175 For More: Visit ArtistSeriesConcerts.org.

the ensemble to take over the opera house, something it’s done twice in its 10th anniversary season. On April 24, it presented Steve Reich’s “Music for 18 Musicians” at the majestic hall in honor of the composer’s 90th birthday year.

Other than a chance to celebrate, cultural organizations such as Artist Series Concerts and enSRQ like anniversaries because they offer unique marketing and fundraising opportunities.

Putting the number 10, 40 or even 100 next to a logo helps an arts group stand out in a vibrant, i.e. crowded, cultural market. So why not take a well-deserved anniversary bow with great fanfare?

For Bennett and Nickson, working with creative collaborators such as Aucoin and Sellars is a stamp of artistic approval in the rarified world of high culture. “It’s really an honor to work with artists on the contemporary scene of this magnitude,” says Bennett. Or was it Nickson? The husband and wife are wont to finish each other’s sentences.

But what makes the production of “Music for New Bodies” so exciting for Bennett and Nickson is that it’s happening in Sarasota. “These are the caliber of artists you see in New York, Paris and Salzburg,” Bennett says. Add Sarasota to that list.

Of course, the reason they are here is that Aucoin approached Bennett and Nickson, whom he knows from performance venues in the music world, such as Tanglewood, and from intersecting paths during their musical studies at schools such as Juilliard and Harvard.

“Matt called me after the premiere of ‘Music for New Bodies’ and said,

‘I think this would resonate with you and your group. It could really go far in Sarasota.’ We took a listen and we agreed,” Nickson says.

As they sat down to plan their 10th anniversary season, Bennett and Nickson decided that it would make a perfect capstone. “It’s our most ambitious undertaking by far,” Nickson says.

TAILOR-MADE FOR THE SARASOTA OPERA HOUSE

Nickson notes that “Music for New Bodies” has been staged just a handful of times. Previous productions took place in Houston, New York, Seattle, Aspen, Colorado and Tanglewood in Lenox, Massachusetts.

Unlike a touring show, each production of the opera is “bespoke,” Bennett notes.

“It’s 70 minutes long with no intermission. Musicians have to move around so that they can be in certain lights,” says Nickson. “We’re bringing a lot of technical support in for full lighting and electronics to make this an immersive production.”

These bells and whistles require people to operate them, including a lighting designer, an audio designer and a stage producer, he says. It quickly became apparent that staging “Music for New Bodies” in the opera house would require renting lights and equipment and trucking them in from Orlando, he says.

It goes without saying, but we’ll say it anyway: Such a production costs real money. Several donors who appreciate enSRQ’s role in bringing contemporary classical music to Sarasota stepped up and helped underwrite “Music for New Bodies” with anonymous donations.

Even with those donations, Bennett and Nickson began looking for a partner to help foot the bills.

That’s where Jordan and Artist Series Concerts came in. “Samantha, George and I were colleagues at Sarasota Orchestra, and we’re close friends,” Jordan says. “It’s nice to come together on this project.”

Jordan says when Bennett mentioned to him that Aucoin and Sellars were going to be on the ground for “Music for New Bodies,” he went to Artist Series Concerts Executive

Director Keren Shani-Lifrak and the group’s board to pitch a partnership.

Like Bennett and Nickson, Jordan has crossed paths with Aucoin and Sellars before. He worked with them as a member of the orchestra at the Santa Fe Opera, where he returns this summer.

In July 2018, Aucoin made his conducting debut in Santa Fe for John Adams’ opera “Dr. Atomic,” about Robert Oppenheimer’s moral struggles as he spearheaded the development of the atomic bomb. Sellars, the opera’s librettist, staged the Santa Fe Opera production.

“Dr. Atomic” had particular resonance in Santa Fe since the bomb dubbed “Little Boy” was developed just down the road in Los Alamos, New Mexico.

“Dr. Atomic” left a big impression on Jordan. His experience working with Aucoin and Sellars led him to develop a partnership plan that brings the duo to Sarasota to close out Artist Series Concerts’ 40th season. Jordan also volunteered to play violin with enSRQ for “Music for New Bodies.”

“There are a lot of opera fans in Sarasota, but this will be something different from what is normally presented at the opera house.

It will really appeal to people who care about contemporary music. It’s going to be fun,” Jordan said in a May 7 interview.

To prepare for the opera, enSRQ is “having a ton of rehearsals,” he added. “We’ll be doing six hours a day Tuesday through Friday, May 18-22. It will be a very intense process. Anytime you get to work with the composer and director is a very special experience. They will be creating the opera anew for Sarasota.”

Samantha Bennett and George Nickson are co-founders and co-artistic directors of ensembleNewSRQ.

“There are a lot of opera fans in Sarasota, but this will be something different from what is normally presented at the Opera House.”

— Daniel Jordan

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

THIS WEEK JAZZ THURSDAYS AT SAM: BARBARA KING 5:30 p.m. at Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail $25 Visit JazzClubSarasota.org.

Join Barbara King for a program entitled “The Spirit of Jazz” on the Marcy and Michael Klein Plaza at Sarasota Art Museum. In addition to seeing King, who has performed around the world and was the coowner of and musical director of the Sound Bite Restaurant in New York City, you can enjoy extended hours in the galleries, Bistro and shop.

DON’T MISS ‘FIDDLER ON THE ROOF’ At Asolo Repertory Theatre, what’s old is new again under Producing Artistic Director Peter Rothstein. Director Rothstein breathes new life into “Fiddler on the Roof,” the feelgood musical set in a Russian village circa 1900 by bringing the music onstage and casting actor/musicians.

Famous from both stage and screen, “Fiddler” follows the milkman Tevye’s efforts to find husbands for his daughters as he balances the traditions of the past and the opportunities of the present. Runs through May 24.

IF YOU GO When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday Where: at FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail Tickets: $37-$99 Info: Visit AsoloRep.org.

career, and “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” from Bobby McFerrin. Runs through June 21.

MONDAY BEHIND THE CURTAIN: EXPLORING THE VAN WEZEL 1:30 p.m. at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail $15 Visit ArtsAdvocates.org.

‘BIRTHDAY CANDLES’ 7 p.m. at Florida Studio Theatre’s Gompertz Theatre, 1265 First St. $46 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

In this Arts Advocates tour, a docent educates participants about the paintings and sculptures in the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Participants then step onto the stage where a Van Wezel guide shares stories and anecdotes. Proceeds from the tour benefit the education/ outreach programs of Arts Advocates and the Van Wezel.

“Birthday Candles” stars Rachel Moulton as Ernestine Ashworth, whose 17th birthday celebration does a time warp and moves ahead to her 18th, 41st, 70th and 107th birthdays, all with the same cake.

Runs through May 17.

‘MARIE AND ROSETTA’ 7:30 p.m. at FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail $65-$71 Visit AsoloRep.org.

Students of popular music know that Sister Rosetta Tharpe earned the nickname “the godmother of rock ’n’ roll” for transforming gospel music with her fierce guitar playing.

She also influenced the music of Elvis Presley, Ray Charles, Johnny Cash and Jimi Hendrix. Asolo Repertory Theatre’s latest production captures the first rehearsal between Tharpe (Maiesha McQueen) and one of her acolytes, Marie Knight (Alexis J. Roston). Runs through May 31.

Courtesy image

OUR PICK SCD + WBTT To celebrate the culmination of Sarasota Contemporary Dance’s 20th anniversary season, SCD founder and Artistic Director Leymis Bolaños Wilmott and Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe founder and Artistic Director Nate Jacobs have created a song and dance program that brings together the spirit of gospel music with the accessibility of Motown hits. In addition to modern dance, don’t be surprised if this new show includes some tap numbers. Continues May 16.

IF YOU GO When: 7:30 p.m. Friday Where: at Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 Third Ave. W., Bradenton Tickets: $25 and up Info: Visit SarasotaContemporaryDance.org.

FRIDAY ‘SOMETHING BORROWED, SOMETHING NEW’ 10 a.m. at the Sarasota Art Museum campus of Ringling College, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail $20 Visit SarasotaArtMuseum.org.

“Something Borrowed, Something New” features major modern artists such as Louise Bourgeois, Chuck Close, David Hockney, Yoko Ono, Kara Walker and Ai Weiwei. Their works have been loaned by private collectors in Southwest Florida to SAM for the show, which runs from April 19 through Sept. 27.

SATURDAY DISCOVERIES 3: UNFINISHED BUSINESS 7:30 p.m. at the Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave. $25 and up Visit SarasotaOrchestra.org.

If you haven’t caught Sarasota Orchestra’s new music director, Giancarlo Guerrero, yet, you’ve got one last chance. This program gives Guerrero the chance to wrap up some “Unfinished Business” before heading off for summer to the Grant Park Music Festival in Chicago. On

the bill are works by Schubert, Perry and Haydn that left audiences asking for more.

‘ONE HIT WONDERS’ 9 p.m. at Florida Studio Theatre’s John C. Court Cabaret, 1265 First St. $37-$42 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

Is it better to have had just one song top the charts than to have none at all? You’ll have time to think about that question as you listen to such hit songs as Don McLean’s “American Pie,” a runaway hit that eclipsed other success in the troubadour’s

MONDAY NIGHT JAZZ AT THE CABARET: LA LUCHA 7:30 p.m. at FST’s John C. Court Cabaret, 1265 First St. $40 Visit JazzClubSarasota.org.

While many other cultural groups in town pack up their tents by the end of May, Jazz Club of Sarasota keeps the music playing during the “off season.” This Monday Night Jazz at the Cabaret program features the genre-crossing trio La Lucha. Made up of three best friends from different parts of the globe — Alejandro Arenas (Colombia), John O’Leary (Mexico) and Mark Feinman (U.S.) — La Lucha takes you to musical places you’ve never been before.

TUESDAY ALEXANDER CALDER: THE NATURE OF MOVEMENT 10 a.m. at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St. $28 Visit Selby.org.

Selby Gardens is showcasing artist Alexander Calder and his abstract moving sculptures, dubbed “mobiles.” Calder’s interest in suspension provides a provocative pairing with Selby’s collection of epiphytes, or air plants. Runs through May 31.

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THURSDAY

13A

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YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

Sarasota artist travels the globe painting outdoors Within his studio in The Landings, Vadislav Yeliseyev’s world knows no boundaries.

MONICA ROMAN GAGNIER ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

V

1734 South Tamiami Trail Venice, FL 34293 941.493.7441

Marina and Vladislav Yeliseyev pose in front of one of Vlad’s paintings in their home in The Landings.

IF YOU GO

What: Open house When: May 16, 4-6 p.m.

Where: Vladislav Yeliseyev’s Sarasota Studio Register: Visit YeliseyevFineArt.com.

York’s architectural scene, Yeliseyev married his wife in 1999 and the two moved to Stamford, Connecticut, where he established his own architectural drawing firm.

He and Marina first met in Moscow at a New Year’s Eve party and discovered they lived quite close to each other. But their romance was put on hold for 10 years until Marina made her way to the United States, after spending time in Cyprus.

A gracious hostess, her organizational and marketing skills have helped raise Yeliseyev’s profile as an artist. She’s also been an active organizer and participant in her husband’s “paint outs” around the world.

In addition to teaching students, these events have allowed Yeliseyev to capture beautiful scenes in notable locations such as Venice and Assisi, Italy, besides painting Sarasota scenes. He is a member of the National Watercolor Society, the American Impressionist Society and the Florida Watercolor Society.

Yeliseyev sells his work on his website and at art shows. Occasionally, he opens his home and studio in The Landings to the public. One of those open houses is coming up on May 16. But because The Landings is a gated community, the Yeliseyevs require visitors to the open house to register in advance on the artist’s website, YeliseyevFineArt.com.

A lot of Yeliseyev’s new 160-page

4551 N. Washington Blvd.

Sarasota, FL 34234 941.355.8437

Photos by Monica Gagnier

“Quid pro quo. If you help other people, they will help you. That’s why I love the United States so much.

People help you here.”

— Vadislav Yeliseyev

book published by Rockport Publishers is dedicated to techniques of establishing structure in a painting, as befits someone with an architectural background.

But most impressive is the section that explains his philosophy to mix-

2510 1st Street West Bradenton, FL 34208 941.748.4679

ing color and how he creates his palette, which is muted, as well as the influence of light in his paintings.

He is fervent in his belief that anyone can learn to paint. But it should be noted that this confidence comes from someone endowed with an abundance of talent as well as the discipline and passion required to create beautiful art.

Yeliseyev says it took him three years to publish his new book, which is available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

“I worked on it every minute that I could, even when I was sitting in airports waiting for a flight,” he said. “I dedicated it to my father because he made me who I am.”

Vladislav Yeliseyev’s painting of a restaurant in Sarasota.

OUR SHOWROOMS ARE OPEN Special Financing Available

www.manasotaonline.com

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ladislav Yeliseyev wrote the book on en plein air painting. Literally. In February, the Sarasota artist published his book, “Light and Color in the Watercolor Landscape: Essential Principles and Techniques.”

The art world has taken notice.

Last month, one of Yeliseyev’s paintings was featured on the cover of Fine Art and Connisseur magazine. Other magazine articles and art show honors have followed this year.

Born in the Soviet Union, Yeliseyev studied art at night school while he was still in high school. When it came time for university, he earned a bachelor’s degree in classical art from the Moscow School of Art and a master’s in architecture from the Moscow Institute of Architecture.

Yeliseyev moved to New York City in 1989, around the time the Berlin Wall was coming down, but two years before the Soviet Union collapsed.

In New York, Yeliseyev found work at an architecture firm doing drawings. It wasn’t until he and his wife, Marina, moved to Sarasota in 2010 that he became a full-time artist, specializing in en plein air (“in the open air”) watercolor painting.

Although he wasn’t the classic starving artist, when Yeliseyev first arrived in New York City, he was broke. “I was living in the Hotel St. George in Brooklyn Heights. When I went to apply for food stamps, the lady asked me how much money I had in the bank and it was something like $15 or $20,” he recalls.

In its heyday in the 1930s and 1940s, the St. George had more than 2,500 rooms and several ballrooms.

It later fell into disrepair and was used by the city of New York to house homeless people and AIDS patients.

But Yeliseyev wasn’t fazed by his neighbors.

That’s because he was no stranger to adversity and deprivation growing up in the Soviet Union. Although his father fought the Nazis during World War II, he was later sent to the gulag (prison) for nearly a decade under Stalin’s regime. He later immigrated to Israel and wrote a book, Yeliseyev says.

But perhaps his greatest achievement was inspiring his son to never give up. “My father wasn’t a criminal; he was a victim who was eventually rehabilitated. He didn’t say, ‘do this and don’t do that.’ He lived by example. He was a true gentleman with respect for human life,” Yeliseyev says.

One of the other lessons Yeliseyev says he learned from his father was “quid pro quo. If you help other people, they will help you. That’s why I love the United States so much. People help you here,” he says.

Yeliseyev will allow that he benefitted from free, rigorous education in the Soviet Union but explains that it was “very competitive. There were 10 or 15 applicants for every position in a school. It’s next to impossible to get in.”

After establishing himself in New

YourObserver.com

15A

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

EATING WITH EMMA

Make it a Mediterranean (meal) May These local dishes remind us that eating well doesn’t have to feel restrictive.

EMMA BURKE CONTRIBUTOR

L

ately, I’ve found myself sitting in more doctors’ offices than restaurant booths. That’s not exactly my preferred atmosphere. Between the poking and prodding, one recommendation comes up repeatedly — the Mediterranean diet. (Which, admittedly, sounds far more romantic than the words “lifestyle changes” usually do.)

But this isn’t one of those sad, desk salad situations. This is olive oil drizzled generously over fresh bread, seafood hauled in that morning, vegetables that crunch, pasta shared among friends, herbs growing at home and meals where conversation matters just as much as what’s on the plate.

And maybe that’s why this way of eating resonates with so many people. It’s not just about ingredients. It’s about slowing down long enough to savor something. In a world constantly telling us to hustle and restrict, the Mediterranean

THE DUO DONER & DELI

5049 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key; 941929-3025; Facebook.com Pita-ful to Miss This: When I lived in Germany in my 20s, I’m fairly certain döner kebabs made up at least 70% of my diet. There was nothing better than stumbling into a tiny shop after a long night, ordering a stuffed pita overflowing with shaved meat, crunchy vegetables and sauce dripping down your hands before the first bite even landed. This döner sandwich ($15.49) brings me right back.

Feta Late Than Never: If you’re arriving truly famished, the Shish Kebab ($18.99+) platter is the move.

Pair it with some truffle fries, because you deserve it.

lifestyle quietly reminds us that taking care of ourselves can still taste beautiful.

So in honor of National Mediterranean Diet Month, I’m leaning into these local dishes.

SAHARA CAFE & MEDITERRANEAN FOODS

1121 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; 941-954-1423; 5070 Clark Road Sarasota; 941-487-8188; SaharaCafe941.com Pita-ful to Miss This: The stuffed grape leaves platter ($12.99) delivers six perfect bites paired with cool tzatziki and your choice of sides like hummus, baba ghanouj, tabouli, rice or fries (because balance means ordering both greens and fries).

Feta Late Than Never: Then there’s the shawarma platter ($13.99), where marinated beef is broiled and served with creamy tahini that somehow makes every bite even better than the last. It’s savory, comforting and the kind of meal that makes you want to linger at the table a little longer.

Emma Burke

Pastitsio ($25) made with Greek macaroni with ground beef, fresh herbs topped with a creamy béchamel sauce.

FLORENCE AND THE SPICE BOYS 4990 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; 941-923-9920; 257 N. Cattlemen Road Unit 90, Sarasota; 941-3598338; FlorenceAndTheSpiceBoys. com

Pita-ful to Miss This: The rainbow bowl ($28) is a colorful, flavor-packed culinary explosion in the best possible way. Layered with toum garlic sauce, tahini, coconut blue rice, slaw, greens, harissa, banana peppers and enough bold Mediterranean flavor to make your usual lunch order feel uninspired.

Feta Late Than Never: The savory Brussel sprouts ($14), tossed in Momofuku dressing with coriander chutney, somehow disappear faster than intended, while the sweet corn hummus ($13) with feta, chiles and lime will turn you into a Grecian goddess or god right then and there.

Courtesy image

Make any El Creco plate into a pita ($10.90+) or bowl ($14.90).

BLU KOUZINA

25 N. Boulevard of the Presidents, Sarasota; 941-388-2619; 295 N. Cattlemen Road Suite 4, Sarasota; 941-377-0050;BluKouzina.com Pita-ful to Miss This: Honestly the perfect evening is for me and my mom to go here to split tzatziki and talk for hours. Our order is muscle memory at this point. The Greek salad ($20), plus the yogurt dip tzatziki ($12) that’s so garlicky and refreshing I’d happily eat it by the spoonful.

Feta Late Than Never: And then comes the skillet cheese with figs ($13), where warm kefalograviera cheese meets sweet jam in a combination that feels unfair to every other appetizer on the menu. For the main event, Mousaka ($25), baked with potatoes, eggplant and coziness in every single serving.

EL GRECO KITCHEN & MARKET

4035 Clark Road Sarasota; 941-3739630; ElGrecoKitchen.com Pita-ful to Miss This: A Greek eatery that served downtown Sarasota for nearly 20 years has officially reopened, and honestly, my inner 1990s child feels deeply healed by it. Grab a customizable plates ($16.90), with gyro or chicken souvlaki, drowning everything in tzatziki or spicy feta and load up on sides like village fries, avgolemono soup or Greek potato salad.

Feta Late Than Never: Make any plate into a pita ($10.90 and up) or bowl ($14.90) with additional options like pork or mixed souvlaki or grilled salmon (plus $2.90), a slew of sauces including beet hummus, Greek goddess or the house dressing. But before you step away, snag a spanakopita ($7.90).

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YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

Sarasota Ballet Gala

MUSIC FOR NEW BODIES EXPERIENCE THE VISIONARY POWER OF MATT AUCOIN AND PETER SELLARS’ NEWEST WORK: A ONE-ACT OPERATIC SYMPHONY EXPLORING HUMANITY’S EVOLVING RELATIONSHIP WITH NATURE AND TECHNOLOGY.

FRIDAY, MAY 22 7:30PM SARASOTA OPERA HOUSE

Sunday, May 3 at Circus Arts Conservatory | Benefiting Sarasota Ballet

Co-Presented by Artist Series Concerts

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“A brilliant exploration of institutionalized racism, the legacy of slavery, our allegiances to one another, and what it might mean to get free”.

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“I want people to clutch their pearls.

I want people to laugh out loud.

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—HOUR DETROIT MAGAZINE

Laurel Stevens with Bill Buckingham

—DOMINIQUE MORRISEAU

CONFEDERATES ALEXANDER CALDER

BY DOMINIQUE MORISSEAU

Photos by Janet Combs

Sarasota Ballet Director Iain Webb, honorees Katherine and Frank Martucci and Jean and Executive Director Joe Volpe

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MAY 14, 2026

YOUR NEIGHBORS TAKING ROOT AGAIN Siesta Key Chapel partners with the community to bring new life to the church’s campus, which was damaged during Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

Ian Swaby

Dan Moriarty, community liaison and board member of the Tree Foundation, and Community Relations co-Chair Janie Pratt stand on the campus.

IAN SWABY STAFF WRITER

FUTURE FEATURES?

I

A list of possible features to be installed include: ■ Native butterfly and pollinator garden ■ Water feature ■ Bat and insect houses ■ Petal cameras

n Florida, the coontie plant serves as the main host plant for atala butterfly larvae.

The small caterpillars devour the plant and the toxin it contains, which finds its way inside them and produces the butterfly’s striking blue and orange colors.

Historically, the plants were harvested for their starch, leading to the near extinction of the butterfly. Yet thanks to the ornamental plant business, the species now thrives.

It’s one example of the sustenance native plants can offer, as Dan Moriarty of Sarasota’s Tree Foundation points out during a trip across the campus of Siesta Key Chapel.

Though 2024’s hurricanes damaged the forested area surrounding the local Presbyterian chapel, Moriarty is part of a multiorganization partnership helping to restore the grounds of the landmark.

It’s an initiative that includes students from the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee Campus.

GETTING FINGERNAILS DIRTY

To the untrained eye, the 5 acres on which the chapel sits might appear as level ground, but organizers say it’s an upland maritime hammock.

A hammock is a slightly elevated piece of land with a contrasting ecosystem, featuring salt-tolerant vegetation and habitat for native wildlife.

Project organizers say it’s the last of its type on the island.

Moriarty, a community liaison and

Siesta Key Chapel is located at 4615 Gleason Ave. Visit SiestaKeyChapel.org.

board member for the Tree Foundation, says the project is a religious and faith-based sanctuary, but also an ecological one.

“It’s the story of Siesta Key, that its natural beauty has drawn so many people, but with that has come a lot of stresses from overdevelopment and a lot of desirable properties, and so everything else has been sort of snapped up and converted into a residential or commercial property,” he said.

The chapel, which opened in 1975, is a location that came to be known as “God’s treehouse” due to its elevation above the ground and the visibility of the surrounding greenery.

The building was honored with the 1976 Merci Award by the Gulf Coast Chapter of the American Institute of Architects. A prayer path is open to the community.

“I’ve had people tell me that they got engaged there, that that was their first time on Siesta Key,” said Scott Getty, co-chair of the church’s community relations, which is overseeing the project. “They went over there, and they never forgot the experience.”

The team is at work restoring what Moriarty says is over an acre of the space housing the chapel structures and parking. Thus far, they have planted two live oak trees and are now removing invasive species.

To date, the project has received two major financial contributions, a $25,000 matching grant from an anonymous donor and a $10,000 pledge from a chapel member.

During the storms, the campus lost plants in the canopy and understory as well as soil structure. Pratt said 35 to 40 trees had to be removed.

Moriarty said there is a list of 30 to 50 new species they plan to introduce through a plan following the Three Sisters logic from Native American agriculture; just as corn, beans and squash planted together support one another, so will the high canopy trees, low canopy trees, shrubbery and ground-covering vines.

Getty has been the driving force behind the project, and he says he has been moved to see the support.

The day before Thanksgiving, Pro-

fessor Karen Atwood and the University of South Florida SarasotaManatee presented the chapel with an 81-page proposal.

He said his dream was to not just a restoration, but also a community effort.

The Tree Foundation brings Executive Director Meg Lowman, also known as “Canopy Meg,” who led the creation of the Canopy Walkway project at Myakka River State Park.

As a “glocal” nonprofit, the organization performs much of its work outside the area, Moriarty said.

Other groups involved include Oyster Bay River Ecology, the Siesta Key Association, The Landings Management and Preservation Committee and the mushroom-based soil remediation group Metamimicry.

The church has applied for a grant from Sarasota Bay Estuary Program.

A WALK ON THE CAMPUS

With a walk along the prayer path, Moriarty is able to point out the benefits of the biome.

He noted a solitary bee stopping by a cocoplum plant. He says these bees, which don’t sting and don’t live in large colonies, are something the project will encourage, for they aren’t known to be picky about which flowers they pollinate.

Near a native coffee plant, another feature he wants to encourage is a patch of snake plant, an invasive plant from West Africa.

“When I look at this, I think it’s an argument for doing things incrementally and gradually,” he said.

“Because if we were to come in and just remove everything all at once with a team of 1,000 volunteers, that might have a negative impact in the short term.”

Other work the team is performing involves harvesting pine needles to cover soil that has been exposed.

The result, he says, will be the restoration of a place enjoyed not just by the chapel, but by the community.

“That creates a really, really easy bridge to ecological interdependence and caregiving, and also just the spiritual health, the mental health that you can derive from spending time with other people, spending time worshiping, spending time in meditation, or getting your hands dirty and digging out at tree roots,” he said.

A University of South Florida SarasotaManatee student pulls up a handful of snake plant.

USFSM’S PLAN The proposal by USF outlines a 10-year plan including four phases.

The benefit is not just to the chapel, but also involves what the college refers to as a “living field laboratory” for students, who have the opportunity to perform hands-on work as they lead the restoration.

Phase one involves removing invasives and starting to plant native plants, as well as mapping the project, something that will continue through most of the phases.

Phase two will involve more removal of invasives as well as documenting the animals moving into the area.

Phase three will involve documenting how the vegetation is taking root.

Phase four covers continuing to document progress past 10 years.

Professor Karen Atwood said while work in the classroom is theoretical, projects like this give students the opportunity to perform research and make decisions. The students have the chance to plan out what invasive plants to remove, and what native ones to replace them with.

She says the goal is for them to develop critical thinking skills as well as confidence in their decision making.

“They become more confident in themselves and their ability to kind of pick up a project and run with it, because I don’t really give students in this type of project specific, detailed directions,” she said. “I’ll say, ‘OK, this is our goal. This is what we’re starting with. This is what we need to accomplish.

How are we going to do that?’”

Furthermore, continuing students will help train new students, a process that she hopes will continue across the entirety of the project. She said that members of the community can also become involved as volunteers.

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SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

Courtesy image

Kananga and Dominic spend time in Kananga’s pool.

Cohabitating crocs Sarasota Jungle Gardens hopes its two American crocodiles, Dominic and Kananga, will produce offspring.

IAN SWABY STAFF WRITER

F

lorida is frequently identified with alligators.

But Alan Gillespie, head of entertainment at Sarasota Jungle Gardens, says their relative, the American crocodile, might be overlooked.

He hopes a pair of American croc-

odiles, Dominic and Kananga, will help to change that.

He also says their potential offspring could do the same further down the road.

Breeding crocodiles in captivity can be difficult due to the specific conditions they require and because they can be territorial in nature.

In a gradual courtship, the two were slowly introduced to one another’s presence. In January, staff observed them interacting and mating.

“It’s sort of like these crocs are friends with benefits, but it’s also really good for them for companionship,” he said.

DATING, BUT NOT SERIOUS

The American crocodile is listed as vulnerable by the International

Union for Conservation of Nature and is a federally designated threatened species.

According to written comments from Consulting Director Flavio Morissey, most threats to the species stem from hybridization, habitat destruction and sea level rise.

Morissey also wrote that breeding of American crocodiles is not occurring at many facilities.

American crocodiles are distinguished from alligators by their narrower, triangular snout, lighter color, and the visibility of the fourth tooth on both lower sides of the jaw when their mouth is closed.

They are found not only in South Florida, but also in parts of the Caribbean and in areas of Central America and South America.

courtship has been taking place during cooler weather.

“They’re very, very intelligent, and it’s sort of the same thing when you’re courting a human being,” Gillespie said. “It’s a dance, in a way, of seeing if you guys like each other.

‘Let’s go for drinks. OK, I do like you now, let’s go for dinner,’ and seeing how they constantly keep on getting along.”

He says his team observes differing personalities between the crocodiles, although he has not seen any impacts to their relationship.

He says Dominic has a relaxed personality, while Kananga is more territorial. The crocs have swapped places, with Kananga taking Dominic’s former pool area and “hogging the spotlight.”

Dominic tends to initiate their interactions.

Although staff thought at one point that a nest had been found, he said nesting has not taken place.

Morissey wrote that when the gardens has offspring from the pair, they will help educate the public about American crocodiles and their role in the environment throughout their range.

“When you actually see them on the move or even just with their head exposed, it shows how small we are in the world,” Gillespie said. “Where something like this, it’s been around millions and millions of years, and still an apex predator, and that’s why it’s great that facilities can have guests come in, learn a little about them and see them up close and personal.”

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Ian Swaby

Alan Gillespie helps care for Dominic and Kananga.

A pairing had been on the radar of Sarasota Jungle Gardens since staff acquired the female Kananga in 2021. The 46-year-old male, Dominic, has been at the facility since 1995 and had been paired once in the past, before that female died, according to Morissey.

The 45-year-old Kananga was later brought from a Jamaica farm linked to the James Bond film “Live and Let Die,” in which farm founder Ross Kananga served as a stuntperson.

Gillespie says the average lifespan for American crocodiles in captivity is over 70 years.

Staff knew the relationship of the two crocodiles wouldn’t be love at first sight.

It began with Kananga in a far enclosure, with the pair merely allowed to sense and smell one another and understand that another crocodile was present.

Last year, they were moved to an area with a newly built pool, where they were situated directly beside one another. Around the end of last summer, a shade cloth was removed allowing them to see each other.

The biggest milestone came in December, when a fence was removed.

“That was pretty cool, because we didn’t really know what was going to happen,” Gillespie said.

He said it took “maybe a couple of weeks” before Kananga made her way over to Dominic’s area.

In January, they were finally observed engaging in courtship and mating behaviors. Gillespie said the

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SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

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ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING THE REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS REFERENCE SHOULD BE MADE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. ALL RENDERINGS AND PLANS ARE PROPOSED CONCEPTS SHOWN ONLY FOR MARKETING PURPOSES AND ARE BASED ON THE DEVELOPER’S CURRENT PRELIMINARY DEVELOPMENT PLAN. DEVELOPER RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY, REVISE OR WITHDRAW THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT PLAN IN DEVELOPER’S SOLE DISCRETION WITHOUT NOTICE. NOTHING HEREIN OR IN ANY OTHER COMMUNICATION SHALL BE DEEMED TO OBLIGATE THE DEVELOPER, OR ANY AFFILIATE OF DEVELOPER, TO CONSTRUCT THE PROJECT OR OFFER ANY OF THE PROJECT FOR SALE, AND NOTHING HEREIN SHALL BE DEEMED A GUARANTY OF ANY KIND. THIS IS NOT AN OFFER TO SALE OR SOLICITATION OF OFFERS TO BUY.

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SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026 The Alustra® Collection of Pirouette® Window Shadings Color: Sand Jasper | Operating System: UltraGlide®

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WINNER

A

fter a return to Selby Five Points Park last year, the Be Fabulous Music & Arts Pride Fest was back for more.

Shannon Fortner, founder and executive director of the Fabulous Arts Foundation, said it was “super powerful” to focus less on the big picture and instead, on people reconnecting in smaller communities.

“We love being in the heart of downtown,” Fortner said. “We hope that it’s a little bit more accessible, and just hopefully, it gets more folks out from downtown.”

It was the 16th year of the event, with this year’s featured LGBTQ+ artists including bands such as The Tilt and Sorry Barb, as well as headliner DJ Daliganga and performances by the Azara Ballet.

Started in 2010 as the Harvey Milk Festival, the event has become a three-day celebration.

This year, the festival included the art exhibition “Still We Rise: Queer and Trans Defiance” on May 7 and the Tea4T Drag Open Stage on May 8, both held at the Fab LGBTQ+ Center on North Lime Avenue.

Fortner said that night’s event was specifically focused on joy, and said early on, people were invited on stage to answer the question “what brings you joy,” with 10 to 12 individuals stepping up.

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— IAN SWABY

Event emcee Travis Ray embraces the energy of the music.

Amanda Dilliland and her daughter, Yari Dilliland, 7, wave some ribbons on the park green.

William Gensmer and Zaeta, of The Tilt, perform on stage.

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Pride gathers at the park

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SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

5B

TRIBUTES Charles Edward Githler

Jamie Saunders and friend Liz Bates enjoy the park green.

Former college roommates Richa Uprety and Brinda Prothia try on jewelry at the Bead Mama booth.

Jory Courtier and his friend, Brad Blethen, browse the vendor market.

Charles Edward Githler was welcomed into the arms of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, March 29, in Sarasota, Florida.

Charles was a visionary entrepreneur, luxury developer, and pioneer of the modern investor movement whose life was defined by bold ideas, intellectual curiosity, and a passion for creating opportunity.

Charles was the founder of Investment Seminars International, established in 1978, which later evolved into what is now known worldwide as The MoneyShow. Beginning with just two employees and a vision, he built the organization into the largest trade show producer for self-directed investors and traders, helping lead the rise of the modern individual “investor class.” His conferences brought together thousands of investors from across the United States and more than 100 countries and featured many of the most influential figures in economics, politics, and finance; including Milton Friedman, Sir John Templeton, Alan Greenspan, Henry Kissinger, Steve Forbes, and President Ronald Reagan. While helping launch the careers of many financial experts who later became household names.

Later in life, Charles

turned his attention to luxury real estate development in Sarasota, Florida. An award-winning developer, he led successful private equity partnerships and developed several landmark properties, including the Hyatt Regency Sarasota, which he also owned, and the Beau Ciel residences overlooking Sarasota Bay. Beau Ciel remained especially close to his heart.

Charles was deeply committed to education and philanthropy. His charitable work included supporting Classical education through The Classical Academy in Sarasota as part of the Hillsdale College network.

Charles met the love of his life, Jamie, and together they built a beautiful, faith-filled life. A true power couple in business and life, they combined their entrepreneurial

vision and leadership to own and lead Keller Williams On the Water in Sarasota and Bradenton, growing the brokerages into one of the nations top-performing firms with 375 agents and nine employees.

Boating and sailing were lifelong passions for Charles.

He and Jamie were members of the Sarasota Yacht Club and the St. Francis Yacht Club in San Francisco. They loved traveling together, especially to Tiburon, St. Barts, Nantucket, and Napa Valley, though Charles’ favorite place was often in the quiet beauty of their backyard on Sarasota Bay with Jamie.

Charles and Jamie shared a once-in-a-lifetime love that was truly rare and beautiful to witness. In addition to Jamie, he is survived by many cherished family

members, friends, colleagues, and partners around the world whose lives he touched.

Charles always sought to make the world a better place, bringing energy, optimism, and generosity to all who knew him. To say he will be missed is truly an understatement.

SERVICE: A private Celebration of Life will be held in the fall as invite only. Those wishing to express condolences may visit Robert Toale & Sons Funeral Home at Palms Memorial Park, 170 Honore Avenue, Sarasota.

DONATIONS: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Classical Academy Sarasota, Hillsdale College, or the Sarasota Yacht Club Youth Sailing Program in honor of Charles.

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SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

Hometown comic con

R

ebecca Johnson noted that growing up in Sarasota, the area didn’t have events like comic conventions.

However, as she explored SiestaCon with her kids, she said they enjoyed going each year to see what the event, now in its third year, has to offer.

She said it was “really cool” that the inspiration came to start such an event in Sarasota, when they are usually identified with larger cities like Tampa, Orlando and Miami.

Held May 9 at Robarts Arena, SiestaCon drew a steady crowd, with many attendees in costume.

However, this year, it also expanded its partnerships within the community.

This year, The Dark Side comic and gaming store, which hosts the event, partnered with Ringling College of Art and Design and CGC: Comics & Collectibles.

Ringling students worked as paid interns, receiving course credit while handling the event’s entire promotional campaign, while CGC helped arrange the appearances of two comic artists in attendance.

The Dark Side owner Brian Polizzi said he was pleased to see the public continuing to show up, while the team has also learned from the past two events.

“This year, we’ve learned a lot,” he said. “We’ve learned what doesn’t work in some respects, and now we’re pretty well streamlined.”

Ian Swaby

Joseph Sprouse created costumes based on “Tron” that he and his sister, Isabel Sprouse, wore to the event.

Shiloh Reeves carries along his son his son, Rowan Reeves, 1, who loves comic books.

— IAN SWABY

Carter Elizabeth Abraham Beatrice Katherine Airey Matthew Alexander Andrade Joseph Dominic Antonucci Amani Adam Armstrong Matthew Jake Armstrong Djoudly Auguste John Joseph Badala Dominick Blake Bendever Duke Thomas Bergstrom Alexis Ann Betz Tyler Kenaz Boucicaut Liam Aidan Bowers Maja Stefania Brodowska Bailee Michelle Brookover Kofi Jafeeque Brown Lillian June Brown Macaiden Charles Brown Morgan J Brown Laura Elizabeth Brucato Sebastian Michael Bruno Sean Patrick Buchanan Jayden Thomas Burnett Talia Kate Busser Rodesaline Michelle Cadet Katelyn Marie Calovich Kenzie Eva Carlino Chelsie Marie Carroll Carlyn Louise Collison Tyler Francis Corso Nevaeh Ty'ara Crews Malakai Jordan Cuffy Mateu Dalmau Lucia Maria del Valle Walker Alan DeYoung Ryan Mateo DiLascia Shelly Saulong DiLorenzo

Leonora Rosales (right) and her father-in-law, Armando Rosales, her daughter, Michaella Rosales, 7, and husband, Chayanne Rosales, enjoy the event in costume.

Hayley Elizabeth Discher Esme My-Hoang Doan Patrick Michael Dowell Trevor Jeffrey Dutting-Morrell Sophia Lorraine Eible Sofia Joan Erquiaga Joseph Darian Esparza Kelsey Story Fisher Cooper Scott Flammang Jackson Dewey Flammang Quinson Douglas Flammang Alejandro Javier Flores Samantha Claire Fox Bryce Patrick Fulda Ashleigh Frances Gainer Arianna Michelle Gallardo Payton Michele Gee Alexander Louis Getzels Avelina Anna Ghanayem Tyler John Gigliotti Lucas Sebastian Glab Valentino Gloria Elijah James Golden Samuel Jude Gontis Dylan Louis Graziano Erin Sydney Griffith Ashley Angelina Grimsley-Izaguirre Emily Judith Halley Chandler Ruth Harkins Theresa Anne Harrell Lyla Mary Hays Edward Albert Hegewisch Grady Stephen Hillerich Quinn Patrick Hillerich Danika Carrera Hoddinott Kaya Marie Hogue Wyatt James Hossenlopp

Cameron Eli Howard Grace Elena Hroncich Nash Lee Hudgens Alyssa Riley Hughes William James Ittig David James Johnston Mason Dean Jordan Sophia Margaret Jordano Jared Taylor Koski Keegan Patrick Kovack Ava Grace LaMorey Avery Elise Lancaster Layla Grace Larrick Emerson Waters Lepper Aidan Brett Levine Lance Charles Lopez Ariana Lukaszow Graham Robert Maramag Lucas Gonçalo Marmelo Braden Anthony Cormier Martone Layla Chantelle Mast Jackson Charles McCray Alyssa Helene McCue Sienna Grace McGrory Chelsea Ellen McKay Gabriel Alexander Mehlum Devin Charles Mignery Chloe Addison Miller Rylan Michael Miller Turner David Mitten Timothy Daniel Montenegro Maros Anibal Morales Carleigh Jasmine Morris Rymen Jayce Mosley Emiliana Maria Munoz Navarro Giada Nicole Nanna Hugh Oliver Neesham

Eunice Coen explores the event.

Colton David Kamaehu Neumann Chase Jackson Niles Savannah Elizabeth O'Brien Bo Edmiston O'Daniel Scarlett O'Malley Micah Paul Page Logan Krishan Patel Alexis Kate Peterson Hayden Jakí Dream Pettit Isabella Sofia Picone Max Carter Polivchak Markella Polo Elise Rae Posada Addison Rae Proa Nicholas Christoph Roeder Blake Dylan Roulund Aleksandra Merie Rowan Kayanna Lyn Rowell Zachary Robert Russell Ethan Joseph Salata Sophia Kristal Soares Sampaio Zackery Bernard Samuel Jr Lucy Katherine Sanborn W. Harrison Schenerlein IV Jillian Elizabeth Schultz Charlotte Sophia Scibelli Reid Allison Scurlock Olivia Grace Semeraro Samuel Aram Shamsey Baylee Maine Shattenberg Trenton Immanuel Shipe Olivia Grace Shuck Christian Michael Keegan Shull Connor Jordon Simon Emily Debra Marie Smalley Keira Marie Smith Tayler Reneé Snelling

William Neil Staas Sophia Gabriella Steele Madison Beatrice Stevens Emma Addyson Stuart Doyle Allen Taylor Jr. Alijah Sunshine Tilton Rebekah Sunshine Tilton Branden Lee Toledo William Andrew Tovell Nicole Johanna Trauger Noelle Anne Troiano Quincy Ann Van Hoesen Sophia Noelle Vance Elle Lauren VanderPol Cecelia Anne Velotta Ava Christine White Konnor Matthew Whitesell Dax David Wiegand Allyson Taylor Williams Robert Augustus Wilson Brody Thomas Wyman Vantrez Lee Yarn III Ainsley Elizabeth Young Kymistrii Blaise Young Bruce Alexander Zagorin Kayah Maria Zorychta Emma Olson Zuniga

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Anya Grady, of Spider Eyes, paints a dinosaur.

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

7B

Make Your Next Move Exceptional

3799 Flamingo Avenue, Sarasota

3210 Casey Key Road, Nokomis

$18,500,000 | 4 BR, 4 BA, 2 HALF BA | Web# A4653658

$10,600,000 | 4 BR, 4.5 BA | Web# A4679136

Joel Schemmel: M 941.587.4894

Joel Schemmel: M 941.587.4894

648 Beach Road, Sarasota

121 N Casey Key Road, Osprey

$8,750,000 | 3 BR, 2 BA, 2 HALF BA | Web# A4681541

$6,475,000 | 5 BR, 5.5 BA | Web# A4667263

Inbal August: M 917.957.8111

Lisa Napolitano: M 941.993.0025

621 Casey Key Road, Nokomis

540 N Tamiami Trail, #1503, Sarasota

$4,750,000 | 2 BR, 1.5 BA | Web# A4688268

$3,495,000 | 3 BR, 3.5 BA | Web# A4643484

Lisa Napolitano: M 941.993.0025

Joel Schemmel: M 941.587.4894

915 Seaside Drive, #412, Sarasota

4079 Las Palmas Way, Sarasota

$1,999,000 | 3 BR, 2 BA | Web# A4681675

$1,749,000 | 4 BR, 4.5 BA | Web# A4683982

Kelly Mooney: M 941.587.8430

Nikki Taylor: M 941.587.9060

1732 Pine Harrier Circle, Sarasota

1350 Main Street, #502, Sarasota

$999,000 | 4 BR, 2.5 BA | Web# A4689911

$495,000 | 1 BR, 1 BA | Web# A4684303

Kelly Mooney: M 941.587.8430 | Betsy Sublette: M 941.284.8483

John Forberger: M 305.905.1842

elliman.com

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1350 MAIN ST, SARASOTA, FL 34236. 941.867.6199 © 2026 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE, THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, ROOM COUNT, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY.

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

YOUR CALENDAR

8B

Aqua’s Got Your Back.

Your Partner for Total Home Care.

WATER TREATMENT

COMMUNITY SATURDAY, MAY 16

RC AIRSHOW ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Rothenbach Park, 8650 Bee Ridge Road. Free. Come celebrate the 26th anniversary celebration of the SRQ field with a salute to veterans. This airshow highlights radio-controlled flying demonstrations by pilots from several clubs around the area. Bring your own chair, food and refreshments available. Visit SarasotaRC.com.

BEST BET SUNDAY, MAY 17

SUNDAYS AT THE BAY FEATURING THE WANDERING HOURS 6-7 p.m. at The Oval, 1055 Boulevard of the Arts. Free. Every Sunday, this free concert series features a different local performer. A Tampa Bay-based band, The Wandering Hours, combines oldtime, early bluegrass and folk genres.

Registration requested. Visit TheBaySarasota.org.

OPERA AT THE BAY FINALE: ‘IL TROVATORE’ 7-9:30 p.m. at The Oval, 1055 Boulevard of the Arts. Free. Sarasota Opera presents a series of recorded opera screenings from the Sarasota Opera’s 2026 Winter Festival. This screening features the passionate and melodramatic “Il Trovatore”

by Giuseppe Verdi. Registration requested. Visit TheBaySarasota.org.

File photo

SUNDAY, MAY 17

RINCON AT RINCON CUBANO 4 p.m. at Rincon Cubano, 1756 N. Honore Ave. $12 early bird; $15 day of or at the door. This new Latin social club opens in Sarasota, featuring dance classes with Gilles welcoming all levels at 4 p.m., and then social dancing with DJ Coda from 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Visit EventBrite.com.

941.366.7676 AQUAPLUMBINGSARASOTA.COM LIC # CAC1816020 • PLBG CFC1428223 • ELEC EC13009313

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PLUMBING

SIESTA KEY FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 5211 Ocean Blvd.

Free. Each Sunday this local market features gifts and accessories, fresh produce, baked goods and other items. Visit Facebook.com.

MONDAY, MAY 18

Since 1995, Gulf Coast Community Foundation has powered bold philanthropy and collaborative leadership to drive meaningful change across our region. Guided by our values, we work side-by-side with donors, advisors, nonprofits, and neighbors to tackle our region’s biggest challenges and unlock its greatest opportunities. This is our promise to you.

YOUTH LAB: SUPERHERO MASKS 3-4:30 p.m. at Selby Library, 1331 First St. Free. Use cardstock and craft supplies to make a superhero mask. Registration required. Visit SCGovLibrary.LibraryMarket.com.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20

RIDE OF SILENCE 6:45-7 p.m. at Robarts Arena, 3000 Ringling Blvd. Free. Join this procession to honor those who have been injured or killed while cycling and raise awareness of cyclists present on public roads. All cyclists are welcome to ride with this slow proces-

sion of 10-12 MPH looping 7 miles through downtown Sarasota. No talking or music and only hand signals are allowed. Helmets and front lights are required and a full police escort is provided. Visit SMBC.US. POP UP IN THE PARK: WORLD BEE DAY 5-7 p.m. at Urfer Family Park, 4000 Honore Ave. Free. Learn about Florida’s native bees with beethemed crafts, a bee house-making station, an iNaturalist BioBlitz and a Sarasota County environmental specialist sharing fun facts. Crafts are available while supplies last. The event takes place outside the C.B. Wilson House by the playground.

Visit SarasotaCountyParks.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 21

CINEMA AT THE BAY: ‘THE BIG LEBOWSKI’ 7:30-9:30 p.m. at The Oval, 1055 Boulevard of the Arts. Free. Enjoy an outdoor screening of this cult classic (R) in which Los Angeles slacker Jeff “The Dude” Lebowski is drawn into a kidnapping and ransom scheme intended for a millionaire who shares his name. Visit TheBaySarasota.org.

TRANSFORM Let’s Get Cracking!

TOGETHER Create your very own custom seafood boil!

WEEKLY SPECIALS Monday

Wear your official MMC Fan’s Merch while dining in with us & receive 20% OFF your personal meal!

Tuesday

Order an appetizer or entree & enjoy select domestic draft beer for only $2!

Wednesday

(Excludes oysters & chicken wings)

Nightly Deals

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Happy Hour, Sun-Thurs 12-5 PM & 8:30-10 PM on select drafts, house wines, & cocktails, plus unique “The Mr.” & “The Mrs.” shot combos.

gulfcoastcf.org/ourpromise ourpromise | venice 941.486.4600 | sarasota 941.777.1270

10% OFF

VALID AT MR. & MRS. CRAB® SARASOTA LOCATION ONLY. Must present this coupon.

Dine-In Only. Cannot be combined.

Not valid with other offers.

One per table. Expires 6/10/26.

8389 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota | 941-265-6888 | mmcseafood.com

With almost 40 years of experience in the financial industry, Kjell finds joy in helping entrepreneurs and small business owners with their unique planning needs for business, family and mission.

Kjell and the other financial professionals at the Everence Sarasota office can partner with you as you embark on your financial journey.

“I feel called to help share all that I’ve been taught through business and faith experiences.”

Schedule an appointment and see how Everence can help you navigate toward your financial goals.

KJELL PURNELL

941-953-6655 everence.com/sarasota

FINANCIAL CONSULTANT

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Visit our website for more information including educational resources and updates on upcoming local events.

Everence offers financial products subject to regulatory requirements. Visit everence.com for details.

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Dine-in with us & enjoy 50% OFF appetizers!

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

9B

May is Better Hearing Month

Join us for month-long savings Hearing connects us. It makes us feel a part of our world. Hearing is so much more than a simple sense. It is simply part of who you are.

At AudioNova, we want to restore your sense of hearing so that you can get back what you've been missing.

Book a FREE HEARING SCREENING

941-398-9956 2807 University Pkwy., Sarasota 836 Pinebrook Rd., Ste D-5, Venice

• 14800 Tamiami Trail, North Port • 1720 S. McCall Rd., Ste H, Englewood

Trial Bonus

Finance Offer

HEARING AIDS AS LOW AS RISK-FREE TRIAL¹

²

HURRY! OFFERS EXPIRE 5/15/26 Patient will receive $100 gift card upon completion of hearing instrument trial. Certain types of hearing loss may require a hearing instrument model that is not appropriate for the trial. Hearing evaluation required. See clinic for details. Open to adults 18+ years and older. One gift card per customer, per year.

Not valid with managed care or state insurance plans. No cash alternative. Must provide a valid email address for gift card redemption. Please allow 2-4 weeks for delivery of the gift card.

2With $260 payment to start, a total of $2930 will be financed at 19.90% APR on approved credit for 48-months. Additional upgrades and other financing options are available. Terms are subject to change without notice and other restrictions may apply. Please see office for details. Offers expire 5/15/26.

SL-AT0416105527

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1

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

HIDDEN HARBOR 5179 Hidden Harbor Road 6 Beds 6/3 Baths 4,900 Sq. Ft. Rudy Dudon & Sophia Dudon 941.234.3991 A4669099 $7,500,000

SARASOTA (WEST OF I-75) 1725 Baywood Drive 4 Beds 4 Baths 3,612 Sq. Ft. Kelly Quigley 941.356.9954 A4680848 $2,595,000

OYSTER BAY 1514 S Lake Shore Drive 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,430 Sq. Ft. Michael Hays 941.376.1826 A4684167 $1,895,000

SIESTA KEY 6144 Midnight Pass Road #2N 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,204 Sq. Ft. Susan Keal 941.320.1689 A4668144 $1,699,000

THE LANDINGS 4891 Peregrine Point E 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,843 Sq. Ft. Mickey Kiernan 941.402.9115 A4688143 $1,650,000

THE LANDINGS 4937 Landings Court 4 Beds 4 Baths 3,504 Sq. Ft. Mary Pat Radford & Georgina Clamage 941.587.9905 A4689027 $1,625,000

SARASOTA (WEST OF I-75) 5618 Britannia Drive 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,163 Sq. Ft. Denise Mei & Nicole Mei 941.685.3198 A4688782 $1,500,000

BAY ISLAND 854 Norsota Way 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,667 Sq. Ft. Wendy Egan 941.444.0446 A4665123 $1,399,000

ROBERTS POINT 4114 Roberts Point Circle 4 Beds 3 Baths 2,165 Sq. Ft. Kelley Callaway 941.928.0642 A4661864 $1,390,000

SIESTA KEY 445 Reid Street 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,750 Sq. Ft. Robin Leonardi 941.685.6270 A4671563 $1,340,000

SIESTA KEY 226 Ogden Street 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,559 Sq. Ft. Beth Helvey 941.330.3600 A4668141 $1,000,000

SIESTA KEY 1161 Coquille Street #206 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,760 Sq. Ft. Mackenzie Longueuil 941.961.4023 A4665861 $965,000

SIESTA KEY 5400 Ocean Boulevard #9-4 1 Bed 1 Bath 928 Sq. Ft. Mickey Kiernan 941.402.9115 A4668312 $874,000

PRESTANCIA 7738 Calle Facil 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,485 Sq. Ft. Beth Ann Boyer 941.780.6606 A4669285 $850,000

SIESTA KEY 1269 Dockside Place #115 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,217 Sq. Ft. Mina Johnson & Ethel Lovelace 941.404.9347 A4656792 $825,000

SARASOTA (WEST OF I-75) 1703 Starling Drive #1703 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,172 Sq. Ft. Tracy LeClair 941.209.0549 A4668895 $749,000

SIESTA KEY 5400 Ocean Boulevard #8-05 1 Bed 1 Bath 522 Sq. Ft. Mickey Kiernan 941.402.9115 A4670371 $690,000

SARASOTA (WEST OF I-75) 5591 Cannes Circle #502 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,720 Sq. Ft. Jonathan Abrams 941.232.2868 A4689571 $670,000

SIESTA KEY 6267 Midnight Pass Road #306 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,387 Sq. Ft. Karen Chandler 941.544.4919 A4647581 $650,000

SIESTA KEY 1900 Cove Ii Place #138 2 Beds 2 Baths 860 Sq. Ft. Rudy Dudon & Sophia Dudon 941.234.3991 A4672795 $599,900

SIESTA KEY 1255 E Peppertree Drive #201 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,460 Sq. Ft. Mina Johnson & Ethel Lovelace 941.404.9347 A4661191 $499,000

SARASOTA (WEST OF I-75) 3696 Quiet Pond Lane 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,800 Sq. Ft. Beth Helvey 941.330.3600 A4683404 $450,000

SIESTA KEY 1250 N Portofino Drive #304 1 Bed 2 Baths 780 Sq. Ft. Marci McFarland 941.961.3390 A4649477 $428,000

SIESTA KEY 116 Vista Hermosa Circle #108C 2 Beds 2 Baths 900 Sq. Ft. Tracy Pierce 941.275.1570 N6140823 $418,000

THE MEADOWS 5196 Marsh Field Lane #97 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,408 Sq. Ft. Mackenzie Longueuil 941.961.4023 A4680549 $325,000

SIESTA KEY 1035 Seaside Drive #603 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,303 Sq. Ft. Rudy Dudon & Sophia Dudon 941.234.3991 A4672418 $4,950,000

OYSTER BAY 1815 S Lake Shore Drive 5 Beds 4/1 Baths 4,177 Sq. Ft. Mary Pat Radford & Georgina Clamage 941.587.9905 A4690123 $4,500,000

GOLDEN GATE POINT 660 Golden Gate Point #61 2 Beds 2/1 Baths 3,405 Sq. Ft. Kelly Quigley 941.356.9954 A4677999 $2,695,000

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM

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10B

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

APRIL 27-MAY 1

ADAM HUGHES

Other top sales by area

RESEARCH EDITOR

5

07 Casey Key Road LLC sold the home at 507 Casey Key Road to Sean Murray and Deborah Henretta, of Nokomis, for $5.45 million.

Built in 2008, it has five bedrooms, six-and-a-half baths, a pool and 6,595 square feet of living area.

It sold for $4.75 million in 2019.

SARASOTA

BAY POINT PARK David and Priscilla Lindsay, of Sarasota, sold their home at 1542 Gulfview Drive to KP-JP Ventures LLC for $2,885,000. Built in 1950, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 2,156 square feet of living area. It sold for $240,000 in 1984.

THE GRANDE RIVIERA Caroline Magee, trustee, and James Magee, of Decatur, Georgia, sold the Unit 200A condominium at 420 Golden Gate Point to Greg and JoAnne Pieczynski, of St. Louis, for $2.75 million. Built in 2005, it has two bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,620 square feet of living area. It sold for $2,325,000 in 2017.

MCINTRYRE-WILSONPOETTER’S Toby Wade and Nicole Desantis, of Sarasota, sold two properties at 1642 Arlington St. to Syed Hamad Mirzan and Kelly Marie Mirzan, of Sarasota, for $2.6 million. The first property was built in 2024 and has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,963 square feet of living area. The second property was built in 1994 and has one bedroom, one bath and 572 square feet of living area. They sold for $715,000 in 2020.

THE CONDOMINIUM ON THE BAY Kathryn McLean Singer and Charles Singer, of Bradenton, sold their Unit 1401 condominium at 888 Blvd. of the Arts to Maria Cino, trustee, of Sarasota, for $2.05 million. Built in 1982, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,315 square feet of living area. It sold for $870,000 in 2007.

Curtis and Kim Eskew, of Sarasota, sold their Unit 1412 condominium at 988 Boulevard of the Arts to Nancy Finkel, of Sarasota, for $1.41 million. Built in 1982, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,729 square feet of living area. It sold for $775,000 in 2018.

THE DEMARCAY Jaclyn Kim Brunckhorst, of Sarasota, sold her Unit 1101 condominium at 33 S. Palm Ave. to Paul Truex and Donna Truex, trustees, of Sarasota, for $2.05 million. Built in 2024, it has three bedrooms, three-and-ahalf baths and 2,032 square feet of living area. It sold for $2,105,000 in 2024.

OYSTER BAY ESTATES Alexander Tyler Forsyth and Elaine Markos sold two properties at 1717

REAL ESTATE

Casey Key home tops sales at $5.45 million

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

11B

SARASOTA: $4.09 MILLION Cherokee Park Joshua and Kimberly Mangum, of Sarasota, sold their home at 1686 North Drive to Danny and Natalie Verrette, of Sarasota, for $4.09 million. Built in 2021, it has five bedrooms, five-and-two-half baths, a pool and 6,128 square feet of living area.

SIESTA KEY: $2.15 MILLION Photo courtesy of realtor Lori Carey

The home at 507 Casey Key Road was built in 2008 and has five bedrooms, six-and-a-half baths, a pool and 6,595 square feet of living area. It sold for $4.75 million in 2019.

Field Road to Christopher Giaria, trustee, of St. Charles, Missouri, for $1.95 million. The first property was built in 1971 and has two bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,146 square feet of living area. The second property was built in 2021 and has one bedroom, one bath and 484 square feet of living area.

BAYSO SARASOTA William Douglas Waddill Jr. and Kathleen Waddill sold their Unit 503 condominium at 301 Quay Commons to David Michael Downey and Rebecca Echevama Downey, of Sarasota, for $1,475,000. Built in 2023, it has two bedrooms, three baths and 1,811 square feet of living area. It sold for $1,099,300 in 2023.

Peachey and Susan Peachey, trustees, of Flemingsburg, Kentucky, for $626,500. Built in 1955, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,498 square feet of living area. It sold for $234,900 in 2014.

RINGLING BOULEVARD Georgia Murray and Mark Maloney, of Boston, sold their home at 2587 Ringling Blvd. to Adam and Erin Kabinoff, of Sarasota, for $596,900.

Built in 1955, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,628 square feet of living area. It sold for $237,000 in 2019.

ONLINE

INWOOD PARK Daniel and Angela Dumitrascuta and Benjamin and Roxana Alina Dumitracuta, of Sarasota, sold their home at 2016 Fifth St. to Gable Life 3 LLC for $1.15 million. Built in 1976, it has eight bedrooms, four baths and 3,058 square feet of living area. It sold for $725,000 in 2021.

SAPPHIRE SHORES Edward Weber and Mary Mangus, of Gainesville, sold their home at 426 N. Shore Drive to Any Chandara Sun and Regina Soeding Sun, of Nowato, California, for $1.12 million. Built in 1969, it has five bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,609 square feet of living area. It sold for $525,000 in 2016.

AQUALANE ESTATES Hunter Stevens, of Sarasota, sold the home at 1613 Shellburne Lane to Donald and Eileen Flynn, of Oakdale, New York, for $1.05 million.

Built in 1970, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 1,828 square feet of living area. It sold for $775,000 in 2015.

ESPLANADE BY SIESTA KEY Debra and Robert Stekloff, trustees, of St. Louis, sold the home at 5879 Cavano Drive to Robert and Sharon Wooden, of Rochester, New York, for $639,000. Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,470 square feet of living area. It sold for $348,800 in 2014.

BAHIA VISTA HIGHLANDS Nathan and Ruth Martin, of Pfafftown, North Carolina, sold their home at 1024 Pattison Ave. to Jacob

TOP BUILDING PERMITS

See more transactions at YourObserver.com.

Hidden Lagoon Beach Club James Mott and Jeanne Mott, trustees, of Morning Sun, Iowa, sold the Unit 301 condominium at 8600 Midnight Pass Road to Michael Alexander Johnson and Ada Fernandez Johnson, of Chevy Chase, Maryland, for $2.15 million. Built in 1985, it has two bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,270 square feet of living area.

It sold for $1,325,000 in 2021.

PALMER RANCH: $950,000

The Country Club of Sarasota The Trust Agreement sold the home at 3906 Spyglass Hill Road to Robert and Andrea McNight, of Sarasota, for $950,000. Built in 1986, it has three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and 3,010 square feet of living area.

It sold for $439,000 in 2003.

OSPREY: $1,025,000

Southbay Yacht and Racquet Club Finn Klingenberg sold the home at 1218 Yacht Harbor Drive to Douglas Bowden and Heidi Bowden, trustees, of Osprey, for $1,025,000. Built in 1980, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,297 square feet of living area. It sold for $525,000 in 2016.

For nearly 50 years, Michael Saunders & Company has led Southwest Florida real estate. Our Developer Services Division offers unmatched expertise from concept to sell-out, partnering on 85+ landmark projects like the St. Regis Longboat Key Residences, The Collection, The Mark and The Ritz-Carlton Residences with innovation and integrity.

Waldorf Astoria Residences Sarasota From From $2.5M to $30M+ | WAResidencesSarasota.com

400 Central | 727.209.7848 | From $1.3M Call for an appointment | Residences400central.com

Let’s build something extraordinary together.

These are the largest city of Sarasota building permits issued for the week of April 27-May 10, in order of dollar amounts.

CITY OF SARASOTA Permit

Applicant

Amount

1111 N. Gulfstream Ave. #16F

Renovations

Robyn Willow

$316,700

1990 Main St. #15

Alterations

Enrique Bradfield Jr. $200,000

2829 S. Osprey Ave.

Pool/Deck/Fountain

David Heskett

$192,000

941.951.6650

2200 Mietaw Drive

Alterations

Anthony Sabella

$177,000

MSCDeveloperServices.com

1030 Sylvan Drive

Pool/Spa

Kenny Hernandez

$146,000

4311 Bay Shore Road

Spa

Robert Pelc Jr.

$142,000

3550 Flamingo Ave.

Seawall/Dock/Lifts

Peter Russell

$135,370

3804 Camino Real

Pool/Spa

Tara Jean Shea

$110,731

800 N. Tamiami Trail #602

Remodel

David Battel

$101,971

878 Freeling Drive

Dock/Boat Lifts

Rose Allison, trustee

$81,611 Prices as of January 2025

Source: City of Sarasota

Issa Homes at SeaFlower | 941.491.7879 From $1.29M | SeaFlower.IssaHomes.com

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The Edge Sarasota | 941.866.3068 | From Mid $3M Sales Gallery at 1801 Main Street | TheEdgeSarasota.com

Address

12B

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

Ian Swaby

Casey Gonzmart Jr. explains the Columbia Restaurant’s locations to the club.

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A serving of history Fifth-generation Columbia Restaurant Group owner discusses restaurant’s endurance with Rotary Club of Sarasota.

DO YOU KNOW WHERE THIS PERSON IS?

IAN SWABY

WANTED HURD, SEKANI SUSPECT RUNAKO NORMAN

STAFF WRITER

T

AGGRAVATED ASSAULT WITH DEADLY WEAPON WITHOUT INTENT TO KILL

CASH REWARDS FOR ANONYMOUS TIPS THAT LEAD TO AN ARREST

PD BY CSTF

SarasotaCrimeStoppers.com

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941-366-TIPS

SCAN HERE TO SUBMIT A TIP OR DOWNLOAD OUR FREE MOBILE APP

Rheumatology

WELCOMES Alissa Chandler, MD Board Certified, Rheumatology Dr. Alissa Chandler brings to Intercoastal Medical Group at the Cattleridge II office a wealth of knowledge and experience in Rheumatology.

he Rotary Club of Sarasota is among Sarasota’s institutions with a long history, celebrating its 100th anniversary in April.

At its April 29 meeting, members connected with another local longlived establishment.

The club hosted Casey Gonzmart Jr., a fifth-generation owner of the 1905 Family of Restaurants, which owns the historic Columbia Restaurant on St. Armands Circle.

Although the restaurant is the oldest in Sarasota, opening in 1959, it grew from another even older one.

The Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City, Tampa, established in 1905, was originally opened on Dec. 17, 1903 as the Columbia Saloon — the same day the Wright Brothers made the first flight, Gonzmart noted.

“We’re talking about going to Mars, and we’re circling the moon, and we’re doing all this amazing stuff, and there’s like thousands of satellites up in the air, and we are still serving beans, rice and beer, doing kind of the same thing that we’ve been doing, just trying to get better every year,” he said.

Gonzmart’s great-great-grandfather, Casimiro Hernandez Sr., who came from Cuba in 1895 with four sons founded the Ybor City location.

It is both the oldest restaurant in Florida and the largest Spanish restaurant in the world, occupying a city block with 1,700 seats.

It all started small as a corner cafe, Gonzmart said.

He said over the years, the menu expanded, while the restaurant incorporated entertainment like flamenco dancers, ice skating and his musician grandfather, César Gonzmart.

César Gonzmart was responsible for hiring someone to place the elaborate tile outside the Ybor City location, crediting him with a focus on making the restaurant experience appealing for guests.

He said his father, Casey Gonzmart

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Sr., would ask César Gonzmart for the money to buy an oven for the St. Armands Circle location, but César Gonzmart would decline, saying, “That oven will be gone in a couple years, but this chandelier, this chandelier will last.”

The restaurant has indeed endured.

Challenges have included COVID-19 pandemic, when it closed for two months while compensating its team and providing meals, as well as the hurricanes of 2024, when it dealt with the surge of Hurricane Helene only to halt its reopening efforts as Milton neared.

The restaurant ultimately reopened six weeks after Hurricane Milton, a proud accomplishment.

“We know that we’re a beacon over in St. Armands Circle, and we knew that we needed to be the first one to open, and let people know that there was hope, and so we did that.

We opened and we were really proud of what we were able to do there,” he said.

Gonzmart said he has also had the chance to break a cycle in his family, stating he is now over 12 years sober.

His mother died as a result of alcoholism when he was 14. He credits his wife with helping him to realize the impact alcohol was having on his life.

He says being sober has allowed him to do activities he could not do if he were still drinking.

“To this day, I have never taken an Uber. I drive my kids everywhere.

They’re in the car with me. I love it ... so that’s allowed me to break cycles in my family that I didn’t know, really, that it was a cycle, until I broke it,” he said.

Gonzmart said the company’s longevity is not just “because we care about the community” but also because it has avoided pitfalls common to family businesses.

“One, there’s too many family members who try to get their hands in, or there’s too many directions, and no one knows who to take direction from.”

Currently, he owns one half, while his uncle, Richard Gonzmart, and cousin, Andrea Gonzmart Williams, own the other.

Club President Pam Akins said the meeting was a chance to complement the club’s energy.

“We bring a lot of activity and impact in our community, and we like to have speakers that embody that too,” she said.

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AFTER

MAY 14, 2026

SPORTS

“States was different. I met some guys who were just like me, and it was a humbling experience.”

— Kaleb Exume, Cardinal Mooney junior weightlifter. SEE PAGE 15B

FAST

BREAK Jack Nelson

Riverview sophomore Madison Muller, who won the 2025 FHSAA Class 4A cross-country state title, placed second in the 3,200-meter run May 9 at the 4A track and field state championship.

T

he FHSAA Class 4A track and field state championship was held May 9 at Hodges Stadium in Jacksonville. Representing Riverview, sophomore Madison Muller finished second in the 3,200-meter run (10:31.95). She was also part of the Rams’ 3,200-meter relay team alongside senior Noelle Tenaglia, sophomore Ella Dabringhaus and sophomore Kenna Borras, which earned bronze at 9:10.01. On the boys’ side, senior Alex Bates placed fourth for pole vault (4.35 meters), senior Anthony Miller was sixth for javelin (52.62 meters) and senior Luke Robbins was eighth for high jump (1.87 meters). ... Two days earlier, at the 2A state championship, Booker junior Maleek Lee placed third for discus (48.28 meters) and Booker senior Jacobey Mobley placed sixth in the 400-meter dash (47.93). Cardinal Mooney junior Conneil Jackson finished ninth in the 100-meter dash (10.88), while the Cougars’ 400-meter relay team of Conneil Jackson, Mason Jordan, Bo O’Daniel and Connail Jackson crossed the finish line at 41.82 for seventh place. ... No. 2 seed Sarasota softball advanced in the 5A-3 regional tournament with its quarterfinal defeat of No. 7 seed Sumner 1-0 on May 7. The Sailors — now 21-5 this season — got an RBI single from junior outfielder/first baseman Jade Hendrickson in the bottom of the first inning, bringing home senior center fielder/outfielder Gianna Williams. Thanks to the efforts of junior Gemma Mulhollen in the circle, the Stingrays were held scoreless, as she allowed only two hits across 6.2 innings pitched. Sarasota was scheduled to face No. 3 seed Newsome at 7 p.m. May 12 in the regional semifinals, after the Sarasota/Siesta Key Observer’s print deadline. ... Sarasota Crew, for the 15th consecutive year, was the overall team points champion at the USRowing Southeast Youth Championships, held May 9-10 at Nathan Benderson Park. Its U16 varsity eight boats on the boys’ and girls’ sides placed first, while the boys’ U17 varsity eight also won gold. Additionally, the club’s U15 varsity eights — boys and girls — placed first.

In all, 17 Sarasota Crew boats qualified for the USRowing Youth National Championships, which will be June 11-14 at Nathan Benderson Park.

BOOKER’S BATTLE PAGE 14B

Photos by Jack Nelson

Vance Freeman became the 10th state champion in Sarasota boys weightlifting program history. The senior hit all three of his lifts in the bench press to secure gold.

RIVAL RESULTS Also at the FHSAA Class 3A state championship, Riverview High senior Kyvon Love claimed silver for Traditional style in the unlimited-weight class.

He lifted a total of 735 pounds, but fell short of Venice’s Xavier Hall, who put up 780.

Love hit all three of his lifts in the bench press — 405, 415 and 430 pounds. The senior also had two successful attempts of 290 and 305 pounds in the clean and jerk.

In 2025, Love was a starting defensive tackle for Riverview football. His 7.0 tackles for loss were second-most on the team, while his 50 total tackles were third-most. The Rams finished 9-2-1 with him in the fold and reached the 7A-2 regional semifinals.

“I just knew once I got my form locked in, once I figured everything out, that I could increase my potential by a crazy amount — 20-25 pounds.”

— Vance Freeman

CROWN CLAIMED JACK NELSON SPORTS REPORTER

V

ance Freeman’s mind began to wander. After months of trying to stay present, he thought about the future — one where he stood among the state’s best.

After the FHSAA Class 3A-District 12 meet, where he placed first for Traditional style in the 119-pound weight class, a victorious vision started to play out in his head.

“I definitely had sleepless nights,” said the Sarasota High senior. “Just dreaming about being on that platform with an attempt like I had on my bench (May 7) to win states.”

His vision has come to pass.

Freeman claimed gold for Traditional style in the 119-pound weight class at the 3A boys weightlifting state championship, held at Lakeland’s RP Funding Center. His 435 pounds lifted beat out Jupiter’s Manuel Hodgman (430) and Oviedo’s Jimmy Godwin (415).

With his triumph, the senior brought home the 13th individual state title in program history. He’s the 10th different champion all-time for the Sailors, who in the past featured Ben Thomas and Luis Aguilar

Senior Chris Schrum placed fourth for Olympic style in the 139-pound weight class at the 3A state championship. He was the Sailors’ captain this season, and will next compete for Lindenwood University.

as repeat winners in 1986-88 and 2011-12, respectively.

There won’t be an opportunity for Freeman — a soon-to-be graduate — to defend his title, but he owns just the second this decade for Sarasota after Mark Monchecourt in 2024.

“I just knew once I got my form locked in, once I figured everything out, that I could increase my potential by a crazy amount — 20-25 pounds,” Freeman said. “It was just all about really locking in this offseason and not taking every moment for granted.”

May 7, indeed, ended with him atop the podium and a gold medal draped around his neck. He grinned wide and proudly held up his score sheet as the in-arena announcer read his name.

That’s not to say it was a perfect meet. Along the way, there were failures.

Freeman hit his 105- and 110-pound lifts in the snatch, though couldn’t put up 125, having to settle for 110 as his high in that event. His first attempt in the clean and jerk was successful at 190 pounds, but he twice attempted and twice failed to lift 200.

He was tied for fifth place in Traditional style entering the bench press.

And it was that final event of the day where he secured the state title.

All three of his attempts were successful — 225, 235 and 245 pounds.

None of the 25 other competitors in his weight class could match or exceed 245, while only three of them hit all of their lifts like he did.

“Districts and regionals weren’t really the greatest meets for me,” Freeman said. “But I knew I had it in the tank. I knew what I could accomplish.”

Great or not, his results this postseason were resoundingly positive.

The senior swept Traditionalstyle titles in the 119-pound weight class at the district, regional and state levels for FHSAA Class 3A. He lifted a total of 405 pounds at the 3A-6 regional championship and 420 pounds at the 3A-12 district championship.

Vance Freeman won an individual state title to conclude his high school weightlifting career with the Sailors.

Freeman joined the sport as a freshman at the recommendation of Thor Miller, who at the time, was the Sarasota boys weightlifting coach.

Miller, who served in that role up through last season, had to beg Freeman just to show up to practices that first year.

Now, at the end of his high school career, he attributes a lot of his success to Miller, he said. He molded Freeman into the state-champion lifter he became.

“It definitely takes a lot of effort and a lot of discipline,” Freeman said.

“From staying under 120 pounds all four years of high school to fixing form to grinding with my teammates every single day — it’s a lot.”

Entering the state championship, success was plentiful for Sarasota. It won the team titles for both Traditional and Olympic style at the 3A-6 regional championship.

Senior Chris Schrum (139-pound weight class), junior Andrew Choate (154), senior Ty Drobney (183) and senior Jackson Costlow (199) all claimed individual titles in Olympic style. Senior Nick Migliaccio (169), meanwhile, won for both styles.

Schrum translated his regional results to a fourth-place Olympicstyle finish May 7, lifting 460 total pounds. Costlow put up 545 pounds to earn bronze in that same style.

For the latter of the two, who nursed a torn labrum entering 2026, there was extra gratification in bringing home hardware from RP Funding Center.

“I started this season as the team manager,” Costlow said. “I didn’t even think I was going to lift, so to be able to come out here and perform like that, it meant a lot.”

Only one Sailor, though, left the meet as a state champion — Freeman. He joins a distinguished bunch in the weightlifting history at Sarasota High School.

Holding a gold medal in his hands was only a dream, for a while. It was something he had visions of as the meet drew closer and closer.

It has since become reality.

14B

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

NELSON’S NOGGIN

JACK NELSON

An uphill climb for Booker football After graduating the most talented class in program history, the Tornadoes will have to build back this fall.

N

ew faces are under the gold and purple helmets of Booker High football this spring. Alongside them are familiar faces, who each have history with the program.

Lots of other faces, though, are missing from the field. They don’t frequent the team’s locker room or walk the school’s halls as they once did.

The Tornadoes are without the most talented class in program history as they make preparations for the season ahead. On both sides of the ball, multiple players who guided them to a third consecutive state semifinal appearance in 2025 have graduated.

More than a few holes now exist on the team’s roster. No doubt, they’ve felt that through the first two-plus weeks of spring practices.

“It does (feel) a little (weird),” said junior defensive tackle Maleek Lee. “But at the end of the day, we’re all going to graduate.”

Offensively, the entire nucleus will look different this season.

Quarterback Joel Morris, running back Jacobey Mobley and wide receivers Dylan Wester and Tyren Hornes are all gone.

Hornes and Wester now compete at the NCAA Division I FBS level for UCF and Pittsburgh, respectively.

Morris calls FCS program BethuneCookman home these days.

The turnover on defense won’t be easy to recover from, either.

Defensive end/defensive tackle Kevontay Hugan, cornerback Chauncey Kennon, safety Karaijus Hayes and linebacker/defensive end Jamaun Thompson have hung up their Tornado threads for good.

They’ve moved on to Indiana,

Jack Nelson

Daryl Cherry (left) and Jamar Byrd battle with a medicine ball during practice. Byrd, at 6-foot-4, 315 pounds, was an offensive/defensive lineman as a sophomore in 2025.

Florida State, FIU and New Mexico State, respectively.

In all, the team’s Class of 2026 featured four early signees — Hugan, Kennon, Thompson and Wester — the most in program history.

Booker finished 12-2 last season and lost to Raines 28-8 in the FHSAA Class 3A state semifinals.

While scoring an average of 38.3 points per game, it surrendered a mere 10.9.

“I’ll remember how they played and carried themselves,” said junior linebacker Kymani Sellers. “The way they played on the field last year translated to us. Now that they’re gone, we’ve just got to step up.”

Replacing all that lost production will be no small challenge. You’d be hard-pressed to find a high school football team nearby with more departed talent.

That’s the task at hand for second-year coach Carlos Woods and his staff. As they navigate this developmental period of the offseason, they’ll assess their options at each position of need.

It’s important to establish depth, but right now, that shouldn’t be at the top of their priority list. They need to identify new starters and facilitate chemistry between them — fast.

Woods, who was the Tornadoes’ defensive coordinator from 202224, has some well-established familiarity with the rising seniors, who will lead the way.

“I love this group that’s coming through now, because it’s a bunch of unknowns. It’s a bunch of underdogs,” Woods said. “It’s a bunch of scrappy dudes, fighting for each and every offer (and) each and every opportunity they’re gaining.”

Lee will be a pivotal puzzle piece

on the defensive side of the ball.

The four-star recruit, per ESPN, most recently received an offer from Colorado on May 9 and holds Division I offers from 29 schools in total, per 247Sports.

Last season, he recorded a teamhigh 69 tackles, tied Hugan with 39.0 tackles for loss — also a team high — and racked up 7.5 sacks, good for third-most.

Also returning for their respective senior seasons are Sellers, defensive back Jordan Booker and linebacker Tylor Morton, who together accounted for 25.4% of the squad’s solo tackles in 2025.

Booker will be one of multiple seniors responsible for upholding the standard of excellence the program has set as a three-time defending regional champion.

“Making sure our teammates are being held accountable,” Booker said. “Pushing Booker to another

MEMORIAL DAY SALES EVENT

level, not just as a team, but as a program. We’re really going to get together this year.”

Quarterback — the sport’s most important position — is where the Tornadoes were in dire need of help after Morris’ graduation. They’ve addressed that with the addition of junior Mason Summer, who transferred from Manatee.

He threw for 994 yards and 11 touchdowns against six interceptions with a 62% completion rate last fall. As a sophomore and freshman, he barely saw the field with the Hurricanes.

Summer’s physical, gritty approach to the role has caught Woods’ attention most this spring.

The coach is eager to tell others that, outside of football, his new signal-caller is a lacrosse player.

“He’s like an ultimate gladiator.

He’s our Russell Crowe,” Woods said. “We’re excited to have him on board, and he’s blended in extremely well … it’s a match made in heaven.”

Booker’s quarterback will need to be tough. The regular season ahead — for him and his teammates — is one of the toughest this program has scheduled in recent memory.

Defending 7A state semifinalist Venice is on tap for Week 1, and reigning 2A state champion Cardinal Mooney pays a visit in Week 10. Booker will also travel to face St. John’s in Washington, D.C., and Valdosta, Georgia, for Weeks 5 and 7, respectively.

The Tornadoes, without the star talents that guided them in the past, will be a different team this season.

They’ll have to find a new path.

Jack Nelson is the sports reporter for the East County and Sarasota/Siesta Key Observers. Contact him at JNelson@ YourObserver.com.

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SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

Cardinal Mooney boys weightlifting coach Scott Ruane crossed paths with Kaleb Exume at a gym earlier this year. The junior introduced himself, sharing that he transferred from Parrish Community to Cardinal Mooney, and that he hoped to join weightlifting. On May 8 — months later — Exume placed second in the unlimited weight class for both Traditional and Olympic style at the FHSAA Class 1A state championship.

He lifted 680 total pounds in Traditional and 545 in Olympic. Exume, also a defensive tackle committed to Louisville, is the Sarasota Athlete of the Week.

How would you reflect on placing second at the state championship?

My coach warned me there was going to be a lot of guys like me. Obviously, with me winning districts and regionals, I was always the top dog.

States was different. I met some guys who were just like me, and it was a humbling experience.

If you would like to make a recommendation for the Sarasota Observer’s Athlete of the Week feature, send it to Jack Nelson at JNelson@ YourObserver.com.

least four times a week, and as soon as I’m posting something, they’re on it. Kentucky is a nice place, the field is gorgeous (and) the campus is nice. Obviously, you want a great football player, but you want a better person. You want a great coach, but an even better person. It’s hard to decline an offer from someone (coach Jeff Brohm) who’s so whole.

What’s a fun fact about you not many people know?

I’m a great bowler. I went on a trip to a college — either Tennessee or Georgia — and they had a bowling alley in the players’ lounge. I was busting everyone’s butt.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Kaleb Exume

Quality Education.

Exceptional Value.

Endless Possibilities.

Who is your favorite professional athlete and why?

I really like Jon Jones, the (former) UFC fighter. He’s really inspirational.

When and why did you start weightlifting?

I saw a lot of Instagram reels of crazy high schoolers and influencers lifting. I saw national champions and Olympians and was like, “Wow, I could see myself doing that.” There was a lot of hard work and dedication.

If you could go anywhere for a dream vacation, where would you go and why?

Japan, because it’s such a pretty place. Thrift stores, really nice people, new culture, new foods, amazing views ... It’s just such a photogenic spot where you want to be everywhere you see online.

What motivated your decision to transfer to Cardinal Mooney?

I just realized, “I have to play harder competition. I have to play guys who are also going (to the NCAA Division I level). That’s going to determine if I go pro or not.” I knew that, with Cardinal Mooney winning states, that they’re doing it here. I believe in these coaches, believe in the staff and believe in the school that they can help me accomplish what I want to do in my future life.

Finish this sentence. Kaleb Exume is ...

Outgoing and courageous.

15B

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Why is Louisville the best fit?

It’s not too far of a plane ride — three hours, maybe two and a half.

The coaching staff loves me. I love the coaching staff. They call me at

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16B

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WEATHER

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

FORECAST THURSDAY, MAY 14

SUNRISE / SUNSET Sunrise Sunset

High: 86 Low: 71 Chance of rain: 10%

FRIDAY, MAY 15 High: 88 Low: 2 Chance of rain: 5%

Thursday, May 14

6:42a

8:11p

Friday, May 15

6:41a

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Saturday, May 16

6:40a

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6:40a

8:12p

Monday, May 18

6:39a

8:13p

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6:39a

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6:38a

8:14p

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SATURDAY, MAY 16 High: 89 Low: 74 Chance of rain: 20%

May 16 New

May 23 First

May 31 Full

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RAINFALL

SUNDAY, MAY 17 High: 90 Low: 73 Chance of rain: 64% Manjesh Lingamurthy captured this photo of a sandwich tern on Siesta Key Beach.

Monday, May 4

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ACROSS 1 Discuses’ paths 5 Blah in color 9 MO’s “River City” 12 ___ hit (huge success) 17 College VIP 18 Wine, in Italy 19 Post-CrossFit pains 21 “Holy cow!”

22 Easy classes 24 ___ of knowledge 25 Comic Glazer 26 Oval Office VIP 27 Genre related to math rock 28 Fleeing in a panic 30 Facts 32 “Let me finish!”

34 Makes a quilt 35 Rds.

36 Texas city home to the Ysleta Mission 38 Goes inside 40 Puff pastry cheese 41 Mix 44 More profound 48 Hazard-spotting workplace org.

51 Site where fans fund artists 54 Heavy hitter 55 Openly defy, or a hint to how 50-Down was transformed 57 Letter after pi 58 Starbucks rival 61 Binary code digit 62 Step-counting device 64 List-ending abbr.

66 Straightforward

69 Buys time 70 Spots where hairs grow 73 ___ it (goes on foot) 76 Look for 77 Defeats decisively 79 Holler, or a hint to how 45-Down was transformed 80 “Well, lah-di-___!”

82 Golfer Ernie 84 Like a film role that isn’t filled 85 ___-turvy 86 Body parts with lashes 89 Drummer Ringo 90 In the past 92 Word before “ed” or “sells” 93 Light show beam 94 Rapper Mac ___ 96 Auction offer

97 “Bite Me” singer Renee 99 A state of matter 101 Hindu scriptures 103 “___ Miserables” 104 Not fully shut 108 Japanese woodblocks, etc.

112 Basic font 114 Queen’s home 116 PC key below Shift 117 Country singer Clark 119 ___ gin fizz 121 Got started 122 Great for the price 125 Diaper, e.g.

127 Catch a live podcast, say 128 Meaty canape spread 129 “Farewell,” in French 130 Objective

457539-1

celebrity cipher

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

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“EP QVC BV TWUIW MIQEJX EJ UJ UIXCNFJW ... QVC MUJ UHZUQT TUQ, ‘E’N LCTW MIQEJX SFMUCTF VP DVZ ZIVJX QVC UIF.’”

UNQ AVFDHFI

“M OBVCC VFK QVBJC CV TVF QMHH CWW KZWY YVBW; KZW DPOK KZPK KZWT PBW VSCOFBWJ YPEWC TVF QPLK KV BWPJ KZWY.” IWPL-YMOZWH SPCNFMPK

“HN KQGFRL UGV FULNYNKVDJIVN GFYKNRXNK, ENTIFKN DM RGVK GM DULDXDLFIRK BG VGBNVQNY VQNU HN TIU ITTGJZRDKQ IRJGKV IUSVQDUB.” BYNVI VQFUENYB Puzzle Three Clue: D equals I

crossword

Puzzle Two Clue: Y equals M

Sarasota 941.355.8437 | Bradenton 941.748.4679 | Venice 941.493.7441 | manasotaonline.com

Flooring Made for Your Family

Puzzle Two Clue: F equals E

at MANASOTA FLOORING INC

sudoku

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

©2026 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

05-14-26

Made for where you live. Here!

THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

RED PAGES INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888 DEADLINES: Classifieds - Tuesday at Noon The Sarasota and Siesta Key Observer reserves the right to classify and edit copy, or to reject or cancel an advertisement at any time. Corrections after first insertion only. *All ads are subject to the approval of the Publisher. *It is the responsibility of the party placing any ad for publication in the Sarasota and Siesta Key Observer to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance with towncodes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property.

Notice: All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

Antiques/ Collectibles

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

Ad runs 2 consecutive weeks in 1 Observer.

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

Paintings •B Bronzes •P Sculptures •O Oriental Rugs •S Asian Art •A Antique Furniture •A

Al Tomlinson 40+ years in Sarasota Honest Evaluations NO ONE PAYS MORE!

941-400-8811 Merchandise Wanted BUYING GOLD, SILVER W/ CASH. RETIRED INVESTOR Diamonds, Coins, Jewelry, Watches & Pocket Watches.

Confidential & Honest.

FREE HOUSE CALLS. Call David (941) 499-6417 SENIOR LOOKING to purchase precious metals, diamonds, time pieces, coins, jewelry, antique and estate jewelry, and some collectors plates. Personal and confidential.

Please call Marc: 941-321-0707

19"-40" TVS. 2011-16. Hisense, Samsung, Apex, Vizio, Dynex, Element. $12-$40. (941) 966-6816

4 RUFF RACING Black Aluminum 18” Mags.

Brand new. $200 or best offer (941)914-8318 40+ VINTAGE Springbok Puzzles 80’s 90’s, complete. Individual or Bundle $8- $10 Each (941) 504-0165 VELVET UNDERGROUND Matrix 8 lp Vinny Box Set Sealed LE 43 Track San Francisco 1969 $195 Pick Up Only Text Please (941)313-4199 WHITE WHICKER Bin, great for toys or other things. Size 35” x 20” x 20” $45 (941)661-3457

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE! 941-955-4888 YourObserver.com/RedPages

auto

2 4X6 Persian rugs, excellent value will sell $75 each (617)366-7557

Autos Wanted CASH FOR YOUR CAR We come to you!

Ho Ho Buys cars.

941-270-4400.

STORAGE FACILITY Boat/ RV/ Trailer. Secure facility, low monthly rentals, Clark Rd area.

941-809-3660, 941-809-3662.

WE BUY cars. top $$ paid for your vehicles.

Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

Open House 1st Saturday of the month 10am-2pm 3901 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota View our listings online: www.bahiavistafl.com To schedule a tour, call 844-552-4574

Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals

Business Opportunities COMPANION/ CAREGIVER Available After 7 years of caring for a client I am now available. Duties included complete and total care including transporting to all appts, personal hygiene and entertainment. 20 years of references available.

(561) 201-8552

Help Wanted Bakery Department Manager (Sarasota, FL) sought by Food Supermarket w/ exp. i) managing the supermarket’s bakery oper’ns by applying industrial bakery exp in production scheduling, large-batch food prep’n, eqpmt handling, & ingredient inventory mgmt, ii) overseeing temperature control, shelf-life mgmt, waste reduction, & labor efficiency while maintaining high product stds & supporting overall store performance. BA in any field of study (or foreign equiv.) + 2Y exp. in the job duties. No travel or lang. fluency req. Please send resumes postal mail only to: Kimberly Diaz, Mgr, Don P FoodTropolis, Inc. DBA Super Bravo, 935 N. Beneva Rd, Ste 101, Sarasota, FL 34232.

MAINTENANCE/GROUNDS TECHNICIAN The Out-of-Door Academy seeks a qualified individual to join our Facilities team. Apply today for FT or PT opportunities. www.oda.edu About Us/Careers at ODA

SEASONAL RATES

Condos/Apts. for Rent

Beachfront, Bayfront and In

BEACH PLACE Long Boat Key 2 Bd/ 2 Bth Rental

Houses or Condos

Available from June to December

Between

Reservations 941-383-5577

(416)460-1646

wagnerlbkrentals@gmail.com

THREE BEDROOM CONDO Unit 1701 available for monthly rental in Copperleaf the Brooks.

Contact donnamariecos5@icloud.com

Visa/MC

Condos/Apts. for Sale 1BR/1BA CONDO SRQ/Palmer Ranch - 1st floor w/carport.

GREAT LOCATION, MOVE-IN READY & CLOSE TO SIESTA KEY. $149,900 (941) 993-8348

5360 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Suite 101 Longboat Key, FL 34228 Rental office 9a.m. - 5p.m.

M-F Ask about our special rates!

Wagner Realty Since 1939 www.rentalsonlongboat.com

GREAT FINDS LOCATED HERE!

Homes for Sale 3BR/3BA SARASOTA Beautiful 2 garage(s) heated salt water pool home in a gated community with upgrades that are incredible: solar system with 22KWH gas back up generator; storm shutters, high impact sliders and doors and a fully appointed outdoor kitchen. $850,000 (941) 302-2376 https://www.

Ridgeway.realtor/

OUR ONLINE TOOLS MAKE IT EASY TO PLACE YOUR AD

Visit the RED PAGES

YourObserver.com/RedPages

Over 1 Acre Beachfront House $6.5 million Sailboat Access Canal 4 Bed Pending $675,000 Plantation Golf Course View Condo 3 Bed $294,000 House on Canal with Pool & Dock $1,250,000 Pool Home Completely Upgraded $545,000

CALLPAGES TODAY RED 941-955-4888 CALL TODAY 941-955-4888

If you’re overwhelmed with caring for your elderly parents either in their home or in a facility, the Advocate For Life can help. Please call so we can discuss possibilities in improving the situation.

YourAdvocateForLife.Com

Auto Transport SHIP YOUR car, truck or SUV anywhere in the United States.

Great rates, fast quotes. Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

Cleaning BRAZILIAN CLEANING Service

by Maria. Residential. Meticulous Cleaning. Excellent References.

Free Estimates. Reliable. Lic./Ins. 941-400-3342. Instagram: Braziliancleaningsrq

Handyman Services JAMES BOTTORFF EXPERIENCED HANDYMAN SERVICES Call or Text 941-807-0032 Registered in the state of FL. MITCHELL HANDYMAN. Painting, Carpentry, Tile, Pressure Cleaning.

Home Improvements, Repairs.

Small and large! 941-284-8488.

Painting Luxury Sarasota Bay views 4 Bed 5 Bath with Boat Dock $1.76 million Near South bridge to Siesta One level, heated pool, stroll to shops. 3Bed-2.5Bath $1,250,000 Brooke O’Malley CLUB REALTY Call 941-726-2677

Adult Care Services EXPERIENCED CAREGIVER 40+ YEARS NURSING/ CAREGIVING REASONABLE RATES (NON- AGENCY) FLEXIBLE HOURS. REFERENCES AVAILABLE CALL JODI (941-962-6148)

SEARCH the RED PAGES for GREAT DEALS To place an ad

or service in the Observer

CAREGIVER, ADVOCATE, MINISTRY

CALL 941-955-4888

SEEKING ARTISTS Looking for artists of fine and applied arts for ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR at Redeemer Lutheran Church, Sun City Center on Nov. 7. If interested, email rlceventsscc@gmail.com.

RED AdvertisePAGES your business

941-650-1197

Use the RED PAGES to clean out your garage

Volunteers Wanted

Advertise your business or service in the Observer

Adult Care Services

home services

Items Under $200

WANTED

Manufactured Home Community 55+ Active Lifestyle

WEEKLY MONTHLY

jobs

stuff

ANTIQUES WANTED

real estate

Service Directory - Friday at 3PM • PAYMENT: Cash, Check or Credit Card

The CRYSTAL CLEAR choice!

The CRYSTAL CLEAR choice!

Open House

redpages@yourobserver.com •yourobserver.com/redpages

Call 941-955-4888

CARL DATTILO Painting Licensed & insured. Interior/ Exterior painting including drywall repair and retexturing.

Wallpaper installation & removal, pressure washing. Residential & condos.

Honest & reliable.

For Free estimates call CARL 941-448-8468 35+ years experience.

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

Aluminum

Doors

Health

DON’T let your

GET YOUR LIFE BACK!

PATIO DOORS be a DRAG or your

Do You Have Neck or Low Back Pain?

Do You Want To Avoid Surgery?

WINDOWS be a PANE!!

Sliding Glass Door Repairs Sliding Glass Door Deadbolts | Window Repairs

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

IN-HOAMTEES ESTIM

YoderAluminum.com

Auto Service

SELL YOUR CAR!

Board Certified in the specialty of non-surgical spinal decompression

DR. DAVID CIFRA, DC

Call us today!

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

941.628.8579 www.ezslider.com

FAST • EASY • SAFE

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.com

WE COME TO YOU

HANDYMAN SERVICES

Accepting Credit Cards

941.302.5850

SERVING SIESTA KEY & SARASOTA COUNTY

YOUR BUSINESS

MAKE YOUR

INTERIOR RENOVATIONS • DRYWALL • PAINT • TRIM • DOORS • TILE • FLOORING • SHOWER TEXT OR CALL 574-354-7772

STEVE PANEBIANCO H R S 24/7 SERVICE

FREE

(941) 809-7311 ESTIMATES!

Neighborhood heroes found here.

Call to reserve your ad space: 941-955-4888 YourObserver.com/RedPages

Relax. You’ve got better things to do. Find a professional here in the Observer Red Pages.

Closer is better.

Computer

COMPUTER REPAIR SALES & SERVICE

941-955-4888

New & Refurbished Computers Servicing PC & MAC on Site or In Shop Virus and Spyware Removal- Free Software We Make Windows 10 User-Friendly!

941-929-9095

461723

6968 Beneva Road

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

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

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

462820

Pegatronics.com

941-735-3362 CREATE BUZZ!

Advertise your business in the Red Pages. Call 941-955-4888

peekers’ place

DON’T THROW YOUR COMPUTER OUT THE WINDOW – CALL LORITECH!

You’re only cheating yourself.

YourObserver.com/RedPages

462549

ome epaiR eRvice • No JoB Too SmaLL • ScReeN RepaiRS • paiNTiNG/DRY WaLL • TiLe RepaiRS • & mUcH moRe!

(Next to Beneva Flowers)

GROUT LOOK LIKE

NEW AGAIN

DON DI STEFANO (941) 893.8475

DO YOU HAVE LOOSE & HOLLOW TILES?

Home Watch

KEENS HANDYMAN SERVICES

Advertise as low as $85 per week.

461717

INJECT-AFLOOR SYSTEM

Pinnacle Home Watch.com Stop Worrying About Your Home While Away Dave and Connie Grundy

CALL PINNACLE TODAY! 941-306-1999

462554

Carpentry • Painting Pressure Washing

453816

C.T. MALLETT

462600

GROW

Home Services

462872

HoHoBuysCars.com

Handyman 462546

941.270.4400

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

5-Star Rated

Kitchen/Bath Remodeling CALL BEFOREYOU YOU FALL CALL BEFORE FALL

GRAB BARS GRAB BARS COMPLETE INSTALLATION PACKAGE

249 235

* $ $235

$

INCLUDES22MOEN MOEN STAINLESS INCLUDES STAINLESS STEEL STEELANTI ANTISLIP SLIP CONCEALED PEEN CONCEALED SCREW SCREW GRAB GRAB BARS (16”BARS & 24”)(16” & 24”)

941.966.0333 LIFETIME GUARANTEE • LICENSED • BONDED • INSURED COVERAGEAREA: AREA:LAKEWOOD PARRISH TO NORTHPORT COVERAGE RANCH TO S. VENICE

364556 462374

462819

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

FREE

941.650.9790 941.650.9790 YoderAluminum.com

Owner /Insured Operator Insured

FREE CONSULTATION 941.358.2224

DRGRABBARS.COM

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

This week’s Crossword answers

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers

Puzzle One Solution: “If you do start crying in an argument ... you can always say, ‘I’m just crying because of how wrong you are.’”

Amy Poehler Puzzle Two Solution: “I cross out words so you will see them more; the fact that they are obscured makes you want to read them.”

Jean-Michel Basquiat Puzzle Three Solution: “We should not underestimate ourselves, because if lots of individuals go together then we can accomplish almost anything.”

Greta Thunberg

This week’s Sudoku answers

RED PAGES. MADE FOR WHERE YOU LIVE. HERE! TO ADVERTISE CALL 941-955-4888 OR VISIT YOUROBSERVER.COM/REDPAGES

©2026 NEA, Inc.

Dustin Yoder

Dustin Owner Yoder/ Operator

Give Us a Call - We Can Help

©2026 Universal Uclick

18B

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

Roofing

ROCK & SHELL LANDSCAPING

Kenneth Fuhlman Inc.

BRICK PAVERS, PATIO, DRIVEWAY WASHED SHELL, LIMESTONE, YARD, DRIVEWAY LARGE + SMALL BOULDERS, SHORELINE REBUILD

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

462824

Driveways | Yards | Dirt Work | Light Demo

941-626-3194 kennethfuhlmaninc.com

Rich Briandi | 941-356-5616

FREE ESTIMATES, CALL TODAY!

Lic./ Insured

461718

Licensed & Insured CCC - 058059 CBC - 1253936

Windows

Pool Enclosure Specialists

Wizard Moving SRQ For $149 per hour you get:

Serving Longboat Key Since 2005

Established in 1989 Serving Our Area for Over 35 Years

A truck, 2 men with equipment, experience and a great attitude to

Licensed and insured #IMT708

Painting

Call Today: (941) 925-3200 info@bishopsaluminum.com 461722

Formerly known as Sunrise Windows

SCC131150987

Interior • Exterior • Cabinets • Deck Staining • Epoxy Floors

UP TO

462560

SCREEN MACHINE Screen Repair | Per Panel Pricing Building | Under Truss | Lanais | Entryways Prompt Estimates (usually no visit necessary)

Pet Services

941-879-3136

Pet Care by Melanie Gates Serving South Sarasota Only including: Palmer Ranch – Osprey – Nokomis

Transportation

BLACK LABEL CAR SERVICE “Luxury for Less”

Dog Sitting (sm/md) Dog Walking (sm/md)

461724

30+ years Exp. & Excellent References

461719

Administering medication

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

SPECIAL 00 5

senior citizen discount.

www.sunsetwindowcleaningsrq.com

PURIFIED WATER WINDOW CLEANING AVAIL ABLE!!

Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES 941- 284 - 5880

Trees

(941) 966-2960

INCLUDING SCREENS, TRACKS, MIRRORS & FANS

$

941 - 248 - 4734

Cat sitting & Cat/Kitten Introductions

160

25 $

STANDARD WINDOWS

RE-SCREENING

462822

SHINE BRIGHT PAINTING & PRESSURE CLEANING Licensed and Insured | Call Owner Joe Costa (941) 504-4413 | jacosta4650@gmail.com

Res. | Com. | Lic. | Ins.

• Pool Enclosures • Front Entry Screens • Lanais • Concrete & Pavers

462550

make your moving day a pleasure.

Rescreening & Repairs

Windows 462551

Eldridge Re-Screen “No Job Too Small” Insured

CREATE BUZZ!

941-270-1561

Call 941-955-4888 YourObserver.com/RedPages

462375

• Pet Screen • 20/20 No-See-Um Screening • We Paint Pool Cages

Advertise your business or services in the Red Pages.

TREASURES

found here.

Looking for something? Your lucky discovery is closer than you think.

RED PAGES Made for where you live. Here!

Call 941-955-4888 or visit YourObserver.com/redpages

WINDOW CLEANING, PRESSURE WASHING, & GUTTERS CLEANING! CALL JUAN & CINDY LICENSED & INSURED 239-203-5913 l 407-902-7845 jccpcleaning@aol.com | jccpwindowcleaning.net

462795

Licensed

(941) 544.5663 | luislopezlanwservice@gmail.com

Screening

Movers

410036

462557

Tree Removal Tree Trimming Lawn Maintenance and More!

20 years local experience Licensed & Insured

Building & Roofing Contractor

DAVID -(941) 228-6479- INSTALLED

Shell Work & Landscape Stone

Trees

461720

Landscaping & Lawn

19B

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

I N T RO DUC I N G A M A RA .

A PRIVATE MARINA & UNOBSTRUCTED CITY AND BAY VIEWS FROM EVERY RESIDENCE .

Step inside to bayfront residences unequaled in Sarasota, perhaps because they open to a panorama of the city’s entire skyline. Here is a stage for expansive living — a breathtaking esplanade, pool terrace, and even, a berth for your boat. This is that once-and-forever moment.

NOW AC C EPT I NG C O NT R ACTS Visit Our Sales Gallery | 1819 Main Street, Suite 110 | Sarasota, FL 34236

C O N D O M I N I U M R E S I D E N C E S F R O M $ 3 . 9 M | 9 4 1 . 8 6 7. 7 1 6 0 | A M A R A S A R A S O TA . C O M ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. 455345-1

20B