Sarasota/Siesta Key Observer 5.25.23

YOUR TOWN

Never too senior to have fun

School may be out for the year, but one senior prom was still being held.

“We can’t wait to be seniors in high school and college, and then we run away from the word after that,” said Erin McLeod, CEO of Senior Friendship Centers.

The nonprofit’s Senior Prom, hosted on May 22 in celebration of Older Americans Month, was a chance for the community’s senior members to celebrate their status once again.

Couples age 50 and above dressed in sophisticated attire filled out the tables and floors of Senior Friendship Centers, dancing to live music by the brass ensemble Bruno Connection Inc., while food was being served.

Some guests took away souvenirs from a photo booth.

“We dance here frequently anyway, but this is special,” said Janet Stoller, who has been dancing for 15 years with her husband of 57 years, Michael Stoller.

Fast track to graduation

Eight high school seniors graduated ahead of schedule on May 10 from CareerEdge’s Bridges to Careers program for skilled marine technicians.

Jalen Barnett, Wesley Chaffin, Margot Gray, Juan Knuth-Baez, Ethan Ngyuen, Jake Saxon, Skye van Gennip and Connor Wiegand received hands-on training and classroom instruction in a wide range of marine-related disciplines, including electrical and mechanical systems, powerheads, motor designs, drive units, rigging, brackets, propellers and vessel repair. Each earned OSHA certification and graduated from Yamaha Motor University’s online program.

Program grads have gone on to work in the area as boat builders, repair techs and marine service managers.

Turtle Tracks

Booker High’s Audra Mullins and Akio D’Oyen

Ian Swaby Michael and Janet Stoller

WEEK OF MAY 25, 2023

BY THE NUMBERS

Sarasota Police Chief Rex Troche Read more on Page 10A

$100

The number of breast cancer survivors who make up the Survivors in Sync dragon boat rowing team based out of Benderson Park and which competed in New Zealand recently. PAGE 10B

CALENDAR

n Raymond Road Development Plan meeting — 6 p.m., Thursday, May 26, via Zoom. Proposal for 160plus homes on 49 acres near Celery Fields. Access via https://Kimley-Horn.Zoom. US/S/98962380195.

n Sarasota County School Board budget meeting — 9:30 a.m., Tuesday, May 30, Board Chambers, Landings Administration Complex, 1980 Landings Blvd. (black awning entrance).

Leadership Institute launches Class of 2023

With 29 participants from across the region, the Gulf Coast Community Foundation has introduced its Leadership Institute Class of 2023. The 17th annual program provides leadership training designed to identify, develop and connect a diverse and growing group of aspiring community leaders.

The Class of 2023 includes: Jasmine Akins, CAN Community Health; Charlene Altenhain, The Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center; Uzi Baram, New College; Emilie Campos, Harvest House; Kecia

Carroll, KC Roberg; Chris Collins, Ability to Include Inc; Misty Daniels, community volunteer; Grier Ferguson, Church of the Redeemer; Marlene Hauck, Lee & Bob Peterson Foundation/ Sunshine from Darkness; Megan Howell, Second Heart Homes Inc; Ashley Jimenez, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens; Jessica Johnston, SPARCC; Cynthia Keaton, Prescott HR. Also, Amber Lamerson, Bay Park Conservancy; Will Luera, Florida Studio Theatre; Cole McHargue, Merrill Lynch; Michael Meerman, CareerSource Sun-

coast; Anne Miller, Operation ECO Vets; Sarah Miller, NAMI Sarasota and Manatee Counties; Nan Morgan, Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida; Steven Pajevic, Crystal Clean Green Cleaning; Karen Pharo, Children First; Mark Royce, Bayside Sod Inc; Evan Samson, DMSI International; Tiona Settles, Centerplace Health; Lauren Stroman, Sarasota Ballet; Kiarra Womack, William G. and Marie Selby Foundation; Earl Young, Take Stock in Children/ Booker Promise; Lisa Zachary, SunCoast Blood Centers.

Real estate firm consolidates offices

Michael Saunders & Co. has moved many of its operations under one roof.

The Sarasota residential and commercial real estate brokerage, one of the largest in the region, consolidated three offices and moved some of its operations into the Wells Fargo building on Main Street and Orange Avenue in downtown Sarasota.

With the move, about 75 of the firm’s employees are working out of two floors in the 13-story building. The company’s largest branch office is also there, on the ground floor.

Before the move, Michael Saunders’ agent services teams, executives, title division, commercial advisors and developer services team worked out of three separate buildings. Saunders, in a statement, said being in one spot will create efficiencies that benefit clients and agents.

The firm, founded in 1976 on St. Armands Circle, had more than $3.8 billion in sales volume last year.

Memorial Day brings Click It or Ticket

As highway travel picks up around the Memorial Day weekend, the Sarasota Police Department is participating in the Click It or Ticket campaign to encourage and enforce seat belt use. The campaign continues through June 4.

In Sarasota, the maximum penalty for a seat belt violation is $116.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2021 11,813 unbuckled passenger vehicle occupants were killed in crashes in the United States. That same year, 57% of them who were killed between 6 p.m. and 5:59 a.m. were not wearing seat belts. That’s why the Click It or Ticket campaign focuses on nighttime enforcement.

In addition to seat belt use, the SPD offers the safety tips:

n Reduce your speed. More speeding-related fatalities happen during the summer months than at any other time of the year.

n Designate a sober driver or take alternate transportation if you consume alcohol.

n Drive defensively and exercise caution, especially during bad weather.

“We’re really bad about bragging about ourselves because we feel like, in this profession, we do this because this is what we’re about.”

Courtesy

BOBBY JONES CLUBHOUSE MAY COST UP TO $9 MILLION

between the currently budgeted $2.5 million and the actual cost. That’s when the Surtax IV, the next round of one-cent sales tax revenue to fund capital investments, kicks in.

ANDREW

WARFIELD STAFF WRITER

Bare-bones basic or invest for success?

With the exception of Jen Ahearn-Koch, it wasn’t much of a debate when the Sarasota city commissioners this past week heard a proposal from Jon F. Swift Construction and city staff to consider an investment of $7.5 million to $9 million for the new permanent clubhouse at the city-owned Bobby Jones Golf Club.

As the restoration of the Donald Ross-designed municipal course at the eastern edge of the city limits continues toward a fall completion with construction of accessory buildings underway, the new clubhouse would be the exclamation point of a nearly $20 million investment — plus $9 million if the clubhouse comes in at the top of the proposed budget.

In January, Parks and Recreation General Manager Sue Martin and Swift Construction representatives presented a budget-based proposal for a simple clubhouse and separate cart storage barn, keeping it under a budget of $2.5 million.

Commissioners instead asked to see something that would help Bobby Jones be more competitive with other golf courses and maximize the value of the restored golf course, a 67-bay driving range and practice facilities, proximity to the public park portion of the site and the neighboring county athletic complex. Looking for more than a snack bar and golf shop, they sought opportunities for hosting golf tournaments, meetings and other special events that an upsized venue could support.

The cost of that, they learned last week, is $500 to $600 per square foot for construction. The longer commissioners wait, the more it’s likely to cost.

“The design we initially brought to you was mostly budget-based; it was very bare bones,” said Swift Project Manager Justin Williams. “We took the input that we got from the last meeting and we added some of the elements that were asked for, such as two stories for dining space and having great views out to the site. What we are presenting is a 15,000-square-foot building.”

As for the $1.5 million gap in the potential price, “We have not put a detailed estimate together yet because we’re not there with this process,” Williams said.

With its Old Florida architecture, the clubhouse design pays homage to the original Gillespie clubhouse building with its wraparound veranda and fiber cement

siding. To one side is the golf shop and office space, to the other a cart barn beneath a full-service restaurant and veranda with outdoor seating that provides elevated views over the property.

The elevated design, Martin told commissioners, is the result of commissioners’ input from that January meeting.

“You were looking at about 6,000 square feet for the clubhouse and the rest was going to be cart barn during that meeting,” Martin said. “Individual city commissioners shared their vision of what they would like to see in the permanent clubhouse, which we took in consideration to get back to Swift.”

In the new design, the restaurant alone is 5,000 to 6,000 square feet, including the kitchen.

Commissioners approved 4-1 Vice Mayor Liz Alpert’s motion to instruct Swift and staff to return with a more refined cost estimate and a plan for covering the cost. Ahearn-Koch was the lone opposition.

“I think it’s going to attract more people to use this course because it really makes it look like a world-class course that they’re going to want to come to and not a rundown municipal course,” Alpert said. “I think that’s a big factor in whether it will be profitable or have less losses than you were anticipating. I think it’s probably something we should do because our idea was also to bring in

people who are not necessarily playing golf.”

BEYOND GOLFERS

The city is already spending money on the unfinished course.

Originally anticipated to be open and operating by the fall of 2022, the course is not yet generating revenue to help cover the debt service of $1.6 million per year on a $20 million bond to cover the capital cost of nearly $19 million. That includes $12.5 million for the golf course restoration and another $5.3 million for accessory buildings — two oncourse bathrooms, a starter house for the adjustable par-3 course and a practice range service building — plus parking lot.  Ross course restoration expert Richard Mandell of Pinehurst, North Carolina, is leading the project to return the course to its original 18-hole Donald Ross design.

Until the clubhouse is built, a 2,400-square-foot temporary clubhouse will be installed, which will be three connected portable modules the city may opt to retain for future use or sell when no longer needed.

An upwards of $9 million spent on the permanent clubhouse will bring the total capital investment to as much as $29 million.

City Manager Marlon Brown said the money for the clubhouse will be available, but it will require a delay of about 18 months to cover the gap

“If it is the commission’s desire is to move forward with this, I am asking that you give us about 18 months for the next penny to come into being. Then we will borrow against that penny,” Brown said. “There’s money set aside for Bobby Jones, and that penny plus Parks and Rec has some additional funding just for general uses, so there is funding that we can use to get us to the delta between the $2.5 million and whatever this comes up to.”

Ahearn-Koch maintained any clubhouse beyond the originally budgeted $2.5 million is an unnecessary luxury. Several meetings with golfers, she said, indicated all they wanted was the best golf experience possible and downplayed the importance of an upscale dining space.

“One of the things that they placed low on their priority list was a fancy restaurant or catering or any of that,” she said. “The numbers really concern me, and I was hoping we could stay within our budget of $2.5 million. I was supportive of keeping within that budget and keeping it small. I still feel very strongly that we should stay within our budget.”

The rest of the commission views the clubhouse differently — a community asset to appeal to more than golfers and an essential component to minimize anticipated operating losses if the course does not become profitable.

Commissioner Debbie Trice asked if the clubhouse could serve as a revenue generator for the course.

“We’ve hired a management company to oversee the operation, and I believe that they’re going to operate it to the best ability to bring in revenue,” Martin said. “It would be evening and weekend-type events.

You also have golf-related events — tournaments and outings — and part of what we were asked to do is to make the space expandable, and that’s what we’ve done with outside balconies.”

Commissioner Erik Arroyo said the clubhouse should be viewed as a community asset accessible to a wider audience than golfers that could generate revenue.

“We want to make this as successful as possible. We want families to go there, we want this to be an amenity for the community,” Arroyo said. “The alternative is that we have a very nice golf course with no amenities for the public. We set it up to succeed or set it up to fail. We have to give it the resources that it needs to thrive, and I think there’s a lot of potential, especially since we’re not doing it on our own. We have an expert coming in, an internationally recognized firm that manages golf courses.

“If we’re going to be investing in something, I think we should do it right.”

The proposed two-story Bobby Jones Golf Club clubhouse as viewed from the ninth green. The two-story structure’s golf shop and offices would be to the left and the restaurant would be above the cart barn to the right.

The view toward the entry of the proposed new Bobby Jones Golf Club clubhouse.

Contractor Jon F. Swift of Sarasota, is proposing an Old Florida design for the Bobby Jones Golf Club clubhouse.

Courtesy renderings

City commissioners abandon plan for ‘bare-bones’ $2.5 million facility in favor of a broader community asset and revenue generator.

The final four

SPAC foundation and the city to hold a global search to imagine the new $275 million to $300 million facility had already whittled the field to six from 43 respondents to a request for qualifications. At its May 12 meeting, the task force was working to determine the finalists to come to Sarasota and meet with the committee and the public in person.

For more than 70 years, Kelly’s Roast Beef has been the staple of the North Shore of Boston, renowned for its thinly sliced “melt-in-your-mouth” roast-beef sandwiches and generous platters of Fresh New England seafood.

Memory Care

•

Michele Hooper likened the selection of three or four finalist architecture firms to design the Sarasota Performing Arts Center to “dancing on a pinhead.”

The task force appointed by the

All 43 were among the top firms in the world in designing performance, cultural and civic spaces. After more than two hours of discussion, members debated whether to invite three or four of the firms for the final presentations at the end of May.

“It’s a high-class problem to have

Learn what Memory Care means and how it is different from Assisted Living. Get answers to questions, like: “How do I know when I, or my loved one, needs Memory Care?” “How can I help my loved one’s transition to Memory Care go smoothly?” “What special services do you offer that support people living with dementia?”

Featuring:

ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER

Four architectural firms remain in the running to design the new Sarasota Performing Arts Center.

Courtesy photos

A conceptual drawing shows the location of the proposed new Sarasota Performing Arts Center at The Bay.

because I’m sure any of them could do a wonderful job for us,” said Hooper, one of four task force members. “Our job is to narrow this down. We can’t have all of these firms building one building.”

In the end, the task force settled on four finalists: Foster + Partners, Gehry Partners, Renzo Piano Building Workshop and Snøhetta. In the process they eliminated Diller Scofidio + Renfro and Henning Larsen.

The invited firms will meet with the committee and the public on May 31 and June 1 in the Grand Foyer of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. The task force will then deliberate in a public meeting on June 2, when it will recommend a firm to the city for approval and contracting.

The difficulty in narrowing the field is a reflection on the caliber of firms that responded to the RFQ, according to SPAC Foundation Chief Operating Officer Laura Hennessey.

“We are absolutely thrilled that we’ve had top-notch, world-class architects that have responded throughout this process and that are interested in designing something really special for Sarasota,” Hennessey said.

The work of the task force began in October 2022, after which the RFQ was issued. The original field of 43 firms was narrowed to 18, which were sent requests for performance. In March, the six semifinalists were selected, and site visits to one building designed by each were made by committee members. Because of

“We

Hennessey said she and the task force have no preconceived notions of what the design might look like.

mentation agreement between the city and the SPAC Foundation for the new facility.

sunshine laws, committee members did not travel together nor were they permitted to discuss those visits prior to this past week’s meeting.

“The work of the task force has been to find the right partner,” Hennessey said. “It’s a partnership between the city of Sarasota and the Performing Arts Foundation, and on some level with the Bay Park Conservancy as well. The correct partner entails a number of qualities. It’s not only their technical and design ability, but also the community engagement ability to work through this process with us.”

Architect selection is a critical step in finalizing details for the imple-

In April, the City Commission approved 4-1 to extend the deadline for that agreement until November 2024, in part because an architect must first be on board and the building designed in order to more accurately estimate the cost.

Snøhetta’s Norwegian National Opera House in Oslo, Norway.

Renzo Piano Building Workshop’s Stavros Niarchos Cultural Center in Athens, Greece.

Foster + Partners Winspear Opera House in Dallas, Texas. Gehry Partners Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles.

Neighbors plead with city to deny Obsidian condo

Although the developer says the height-limiting ordinance does not apply, the Sarasota Design Review Committee still suggests reducing the scale of the condominium tower.

ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER

As an 18-story condominium development continues progressing through the Sarasota Design Review Committee, the project’s opponents are mounting a last-ditch effort to prevent its approval.

During this past week’s meeting of the Sarasota City Commission, nearly a dozen opponents of the proposed Obsidian project at 1260 N. Palm Ave. implored the city to stop the 18-story building. Their challenge, though, is whether it can be stopped even if the city is so inclined.

Obsidian, which would be built across North Palm Avenue from Art Ovation Hotel and the Palm Avenue parking garage, is designed to flare from 4,200-square-foot units on the lower floors to 6,200 square feet beginning on the ninth floor to maximize views of Sarasota Bay. That doesn’t include upwards of 1,400 square feet of outdoor balcony space. At one unit per residential floor, the condominiums would be priced from $4 million.

The objections of the speakers, most of them residents of the neighboring Bay Plaza, are largely related to the scale of Obsidian. At 342 feet it will exceed the tallest 18-story building in downtown and on the bayfront by some 100 feet. That height is partly achievable by incorporation of interstitial space — uninhabitable space between floors — which provides room for mechanical, plumbing and other systems.

The building schematic shows a total of 65 feet of interstitial space, 2 feet between each residential floor in addition to the 14-foot ceilings of each. The zoning code limits

downtown towers to 18 stories with finished floor-to-ceiling height of 14 feet, but until April 17, 2023, no restrictions were placed on interstitial space.

Opponents accuse the building design of taking advantage of the loophole to gain height that affords the upper 10 floors a view of Sarasota Bay over the roof of Bay Plaza.

“I have practiced city planning and downtown development in a major metropolitan area for almost 30 years,” said speaker Michael Schneiderman. “During that time, I had never seen a project exploit the zoning codes in order to conform to height limitations just to sell 14 expensive units.

“Please block the approval of the development because it blocks out everything good that has occurred in the area over the last two decades, including opening of more retail establishments, eating places, pedestrian activity, live theater, and recognizing landmarks like the Bay Plaza next to a huge project. The area is bustling with people because they feel comfortable with the scale of their surroundings that are in proportion to the intimacy of a relatively small city.”

Sarasota resident and engineer William Carnes said the development will only encourage taller buildings in the future, which will impact the quality of life of Sarasotans for generations. “The developer of this skyscraper has proposed a structure that is twice the height of nearby buildings on a parcel that is roughly one-quarter of an acre,” he said. “The sole purpose of the extreme height of this building is to crank up the height to allow potential residents of the upper 10 levels to see over the Bay Plaza building for views

of Sarasota Bay.

“This is roughly the height of an equivalent 30-story building,” Carnes continued. “That is more than twice the height of the 14th level of Bay Plaza. This building violates the intent of the master plan. This building should take possibly two years to construct. This building will push the limits of construction, height, mass, scale, lot coverage, compatibility and quality of life for the benefit of a few well-off (buyers).”

The challenge opponents face is even if city staff — which has administrative approval authority in the downtown zoning districts — doesn’t like the building’s height, it may not have legal authority to stop it, providing it meets all requisite development standards pursuant to the zoning code.

HEIGHT REDUCTION SUGGESTED

The first Obsidian plan submittal predated approval of the city’s ordinance that limits the use and purpose of interstitial space. The amendment to the zoning code reads:

“Interstitial space shall only be permitted for the use of mechanical, electrical, plumbing or similar equipment and materials. Any increase, other than the minimum height required to accommodate equipment, must be approved by the director of development services or designee with written justification provided for review.”

Stricken from the ordinance was the sentence, “The uninhabited space between stories is not regulated.”

In the case of Obsidian, Sarasota attorney Robert Lincoln has advised developer Matt Kihnke that the new ordinance does not apply because

the administrative approval process began prior to being amended, and that it includes no language that makes it retroactive.

Included among the previous unresolved staff comments at the May 17 DRC meeting were questions about the additional space beyond the 14-foot measurement of a story, and a request to explain the purpose of the proposed t feet of interstitial space included on levels 6-17.

The developer’s response, crafted following consultation with attorney Lincoln, read:

“No justification or explanation of the two feet of nonhabitable space between floors is required pursuant to Zoning Code Sec. VI-1005(g) (1), as was in effect when the application was filed, which stated ‘the uninhabited space between stories

is not regulated.’

“Therefore, the provision of uninhabited, nonhabitable interstitial spaces between stories is consistent with the intent and purpose of the zoning code, regardless of the impact on the resulting physical height of the structure. In fact, the recent amendment to this provision, which does not provide for retroactive application and cannot be retroactively applied to it, demonstrates that the current language permits such uses of uninhabitable interstitial spaces.”

A similar response was provided to another comment about large amounts of interstitial space between floors 4 and 5, 17 and 18, and 18 and the rooftop; and about a request to describe the purpose of that space.

Courtesy rendering

The upper floors of Obsidian would offer bayfront views to the east and downtown views to the west.

Written responses to staff comments about interstitial space indicated that the developer will not be providing details as requested.

George Scarf of Hoyt Architects said that doesn’t mean it won’t respond eventually, most likely by the next resubmittal, which has yet to be scheduled.

“If I can clarify on that, we’ll add a note for the two-foot structure and mechanical systems similar to the other interstitial spaces we noted,” Scarf said. “We’ll know that when the mechanical engineer and plumbing engineer is on board. We will have additional information of those areas as part of the building permit. I didn’t want you to believe we’d never respond, it’s just we don’t have the engineers on board yet to size those systems.”

That note, Scarf said, would be added at the next resubmission, which could be the last, given the few staff comments remaining about nonresolved items such as power vault location, vehicle entry gates, pedestrian entry doors, etc. Once the DRC signs off on a project, it goes to the desk of Director of Development Services Lucia Panica for final approval.

If approved, any appeal by an aggrieved party would go before the Planning Board for a quasi-judicial hearing, provided the Planning Board recognizes the individuals have standing. Under Florida law, there is no blanket definition for such standing, which generally applies if procedural violations apply

to the case. Claims of undue harm via diminished property value or concerns about impact on the structural integrity of adjacent properties — both among the opponents’ objections — have been ruled by the Florida Supreme Court as speculative.

In other words, if a project conforms to the zoning code and meets all the standards therein as determined by either the administrative or political processes, and providing in this case the amendment regarding interstitial space is not retroactive, it possibly cannot be denied.

That doesn’t mean Obsidian is inevitable. Development Review Chief Planner Allison Christie challenged Scarf and project consultant Joel Freedman to explore ways to reduce the building height.

“There are ways in which the configuration of the development could be changed which would mitigate or improve the effect of the development on adjoining and nearby properties and on the community,” Christie said.

“As proposed, the total building height is 342 feet, which is significantly taller than neighboring buildings and other buildings within the zoning district and the rest of the city. The proposed development is surrounded on three sides by one condominium building that is less than half this height, the overall building height could be reduced to improve the effects on this adjoining property.”

Andrew Warfield

Obsidian would replace this row of retail buildings along North Palm Avenue. Behind it is Bay Plaza.

OPINION / OUR VIEW

Best in the U.S.

steps they had taken to transform the city, he replied, “We allow. We allow painting on walls. We allow dogs at restaurants. We allow skateboarding on streets. We allow music at bars.”

U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT 2023-2024 RANKINGS

BEST PLACES TO LIVE

2. Sarasota, FL

3. Fort Myers, FL

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

Friedrich Hayek “Road to Serfdom,” 1944

President and Publisher / Emily Walsh, EWalsh@YourObserver.com

Continually in the top 10 rankings in U.S. News & World Report, Sarasota is winning once again.

As recently announced, Sarasota ranked No. 5 in “Best Places to Live in the U.S.,” No. 1 in “Best Places to Live in Florida,” No. 2 in “Fastest Growing Places in the U.S.,” No. 7 in “Safest Places to Live,” and placing just shy of the top 10 as No. 11 in “Best Places to Retire.”

Accolades for Sarasota aren’t new. Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman, also known as Dr. Beach, has named Siesta Key beach twice as the No. 1 beach in the U.S. Sarasota Memorial Hospital is the only hospital in Florida to have earned the Federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid’s highest five-star rating for overall quality and safety since 2016. The Sarasota Chamber was recently awarded a four-star accreditation by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, making it one of only 11 chambers in the state of Florida to receive this accomplishment. The Sarasota Ballet has been invited by the Royal Ballet of London to perform in June, making its first international debut. And Sarasota’s society scene has such notable figures that it is continually written up in the New York Social Diary.

No doubt, Sarasota is on the international map.

With a mass influx of new residents moving to Florida, numerous New York and California license plates have been spotted driving around the Gulfstream Roundabout, no doubt here to enjoy our gorgeous beaches, diverse food and wine scene, acclaimed arts and entertainment, parks and recreational sports that help drive those top 10 rankings.

Yet, not everyone is happy about it.

While purchasing a birthday present for a friend at a local retail shop in Sarasota, I noticed a young man buying a T-shirt that touted: “Last Local. Sarasota Sucks. Don’t Move Here. Your State’s Great.” Another friend shared the U.S. News’ rankings on social media only to receive negative comments: “Noooooo. We are FULLLLLL,” “Shhhhhhhh” and “Stay away pleaseeee” to “Make sure your NIMBY membership is paid up!” NIMBYism (Not In My Backyard) is the greatest risk to our celebrated and top-ranked city. But that is a column for another time.

In 2015, Rick Kriseman, mayor of St. Petersburg, gave a presentation to Leadership Florida about the city’s growth. Asked what

While we have a ways to go on “allowing” things in Sarasota, we have seen more acquiescence as of late. One example is the new Boo’s Ice House & Dog Bar in the Rosemary District. A mural of happy dogs adorns the walls of the restaurant on Florida Avenue that specifically caters to dogs and their owners. Three different block parties took place downtown on Cinco de Mayo that resulted in only a few noise complaints. And perhaps the most significant is the approval of the redevelopment of 53 acres of city-owned land to create a public park, The Bay (of which I serve on the board, full disclosure).

Zoning issues and amendments are coming across commissioners’ desks (The St. Regis parking garage on Longboat Key and the One Park condominium development in downtown Sarasota come to mind.), and Sarasota’s skyline is full of cranes that rival the years before the Great Recession. Currently, the city of Sarasota has 40 active development applications under review.

At the behest of two 13-year-old boys, I recently had breakfast at Denny’s. Inside the restaurant is a blown-up image of Sarasota’s skyline that is already out of date. The late Gil Waters is surely smiling down from heaven at the secondfastest growing place in the U.S.  So instead of lamenting about the way things used to be, grab your pooch, hop on a Veo bike, order a drink and raise your glass to the

Analyzing the 150 most populous metro areas. To qualify, a place had to have good value, be a desirable place to live, have a strong job market and a high quality of life. 1.

2.

BEST PLACES TO LIVE IN FLORIDA

The best places to live in the Sunshine State span the beaches, coasts, farmland and tourism centers

4. Lakeland, FL

5. Port St. Lucie, FL

6. Boise, ID 7. Ocala, FL

8. Daytona Beach, FL

9. Naples, FL

10. Salisbury, MD

SAFEST PLACES TO LIVE

The safest places to live in the country are based on the metro areas’ murder and property crime rates per 100,000 people, determined by the FBI crime reports.

1. Naples, FL

2. Port St. Lucie, FL

3. Fort Myers, FL

4. Portland, ME

5. Lakeland, FL

6. Tampa, FL

7. Sarasota, FL

8. Worcester, MA

9. Daytona Beach, FL

10. Ocala, FL

BEST PLACES TO RETIRE

Executive Editor and COO / Kat Wingert, KWingert@YourObserver.com

Managing Editor / James Peter, JPeter@YourObserver.com

Sports Editor / Ryan Kohn, RKohn@YourObserver.com

Staff Writers / Ian Swaby, ISwaby@ YourObserver.com; Andrew Warfield, AWarfield@YourObserver.com

Digital & Engagement Editor / Kaelyn Adix, KAdix@YourObserver.com

Copy Editor / Gina Reynolds Haskins, GRHaskins@YourObserver.com

Senior Editorial Designer / Melissa Leduc, MLeduc@YourObserver.com

A+E Editor / Monica Roman Gagnier, MGagnier@YourObserver.com

Director of Advertising / Jill Raleigh, JRaleigh@YourObserver.com

Sales Manager / Penny Nowicki, PNowicki@YourObserver.com

Regional Digital Director / Kathleen O’Hara, KOHara@YourObserver.com

Senior Advertising Executive / Laura Ritter, LRitter@YourObserver.com

FASTEST-GROWING

PLACES

The fastest-growing cities in the country are determined by the percent increase of net migration of each metro area, which is measured by

U.S. News analyzed data for the 150 largest metropolitan areas in the U.S. to assess how well they meet Americans’ retirement needs and expectations. Top criteria include the happiness of local residents, housing affordability, tax rates and health care quality.

1. Lancaster, PA

2. Harrisburg, PA

3. Pensacola, FL

4. Tampa, FL

Advertising Executives / Richeal Bair, RBair@YourObserver.com; Beth Jacobson, BJacobson@YourObserver.com; Jennifer Kane, JKane@YourObserver.com; Honesty Mantkowski, HMantkowski@YourObserver. com; Toni Perren, TPerren@YourObserver. com; Brenda White, BWhite@ YourObserver.com

Classified Advertising Sales Executive / Lexi Huelsman, LHuelsman@ YourObserver.com

Sales Operations Manager / Susan Leedom, SLeedom@YourObserver.com

Sales Coordinator / Account Manager Lori Downey, LDowney@ YourObserver.com

Digital Fulfillment Specialist / Emma B. Jolly, EJolly@YourObserver.com

Director of Marketing / Robin Lankton, RLankton@YourObserver.com

Marketing Specialist / Melanie Melone, MMelone@YourObserver.com

Director of Creative Services / 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

Director of Information Technology / Adam Quinlin, AQuinlin@YourObserver.com

Chief Financial Officer / Laura Strickland, LStrickland@YourObserver.com

Controller / Rafael Labrin, RLabrin@ YourObserver.com

Office and Accounting Coordinator / Donna Condon, DCondon @YourObserver.com

Observer Media Group Inc. is locally owned.

Publisher of the Longboat Observer, East County Observer, Sarasota/Siesta Key Observer, Palm Coast Observer, Ormond Beach Observer, West Orange Times & Observer, Southwest Orange Observer, Business Observer, Jacksonville Daily Record, Key Life Magazine, LWR Life Magazine, Baldwin Park Living Magazine and Season Magazine

CEO / Matt Walsh

President / Emily Walsh

Vice President / Lisa Walsh

Chairman Emeritus / David Beliles

1970 Main St. Sarasota, FL 34236 941-366-3468

EMILY WALSH

We know Sarasota is great. Don’t hate. Let’s celebrate.

Haters

hate. Last Local brand designs T-shirts that discourage tourists from moving to different places in the U.S.

The long road home

Sarasota city commissioners authorize staff to craft a lease agreement with The Players Centre for Performing Arts, which hasn’t had a permanent home for seven years.

of the Sarasota City Commission this past week to occupy the auditorium and instructed staff to bring back a 10-year lease agreement

for consideration.

The Players has been in pursuit of a new home since selling its downtown property in 2016, lured at that time outside of the city to Lakewood Ranch. A plan to build a $30 million theater complex in Waterside Village in partnership with Lakewood Ranch Developer Schroeder-Manatee Ranch failed to materialize, leaving The Players to stage their primary performances in vacant retail space at The Crossings at Siesta on South Tamiami Trail.

After SMR terminated its agreement with The Players in March 2022, the troupe turned its attention to Municipal Auditorium in downtown located within The Bay, the city-owned 53-acre park under development by the Bay Park Conservancy in partnership with the city.

In October 2022, The Players pitched the City Commission on a

lease-operating agreement for the Municipal Auditorium for $100 per year in exchange for investing $9 million in improvements to the building, operating costs and giving it scheduling control.

The latter ran afoul of the BPC, which operates facilities within The Bay on behalf of the city, with the exception of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. In October, commissioners instructed staff to work to broker a deal between the two entities, one that never materialized.

During that October 2022 meeting, then-Vice Mayor Kyle Battie floated the idea of leasing Payne Park Auditorium instead, which garnered broad support with the exception of then-Commissioner Hagen Brody, who championed The Players’ Municipal Auditorium ambitions.

“This is how arts and culture die in this community,” Brody said. “It’s by

a thousand paper cuts.”

The Players proposes a 10-year lease with two subsequent 10-year renewals subject to agreement by both parties. It will pay the city $100 per year plus $1 per ticket sold for each performance. It will pledge an initial $1 million investment for renovations and assume responsibility for all expenses related to capital repairs and replacement, interior and exterior maintenance, utilities, insurance and any taxes. The city will complete repair and replacement of the roof of the structure resulting from Hurricane Ian damage.

Any improvements The Players complete will revert to city ownership at the end of the lease term. The city may determine whether to participate in funding any improvements prior to execution of the lease.

The site map for The Players’ use includes the building plus space around it.

“The focus of this initially is the building itself, and then if there were other changes and in the future, those would come back through a major conditional use,” The Players CEO William Skaggs told commissioners. “Part of that is allowing that this space is available for things that we may do outside as well. That would be on our leased property, which would also make it a little easier to operate and not have to come to the city every time we wanted to have a program outdoors.”

Other considerations are additional parking, ADA accessibility, drop-off, etc.

“We haven’t had a discussion about parking or anything like that,” said City Manager Marlon Brown, adding that any structural considerations outside of the building will require a major conditional use that would require commission approval.

Courtesy photo

A rendering of exterior renovations at Payne Park Auditorium proposed by The Players Centre for Performing Arts.

“The focus of this initially is the building itself, and then if there were other changes and in the future, those would come back through a major conditional use.”

William Skaggs, The Players CEO

SPD’s reluctant heroes honored for accomplishments in 2022

ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER

During opening remarks before an awards presentation on Wednesday, Sarasota Police Chief Rex Troche was explicit in describing how police personnel are not all that fond of receiving awards. He then proceeded to hand out nearly two dozen of them to sworn officers and civilian employees at SPD headquarters.

The annual awards event recognized feats in 2022, ranging from saving lives to solving homicides to launching a new website.

“We’re really bad about bragging about ourselves because we feel like, in this profession, we do this because this is what we’re about,” Troche said. “We really have to force these officers to come up here against their will. It’s simply just not in our nature.”

Among the honorees was Det. John Lake, who was named Detective of the Year for, among other accomplishments, his work in solving a property crime operation involving goods worth some $100,000. Lake was Troche’s training officer more than two decades ago.  Lake is retiring after 33 years of service at the end of this year.

Nine officers received Lifesaving Medals and four were named Civilian Employees of the Year.

“I have the honor of hiring people on a regular basis,” Troche said. “We’ve hired 30 people last year. I get to meet people in those nascent stages of their career, and then I’m reminded of those meetings when I see people getting awards in five years, 13 years, 20 years and still staying committed.”

Following are the 2022 award winners and brief descriptions of their accomplishments.

LIFESAVING MEDALS

Officer Dominic Farina: On Sept. 23, 2022, Farina responded to a call about an unconscious male who was not breathing due to a possible drug overdose. He did not have a pulse, and Farina immediately began CPR. After approximately three minutes, the subject gasped for air. Paramedics arrived on scene and transported him to Sarasota Memorial Hospital.

Officers Molly Spencer and Aaron Modrow: On July 11, 2022, patrol officers responded to a call in which a civilian was attempting to rescue a male subject from a swimming pool. Modrow entered the pool and brought the subject to the side where Spencer began CPR. The officers provided continuous compressions until paramedics arrived. The subject had suffered a heart attack in the pool and survived thanks to the officers’ efforts.

Officer Laura Tomlinson: On Dec. 31, 2022, Tomlinson responded to a call about where she found an unconscious male lying on a couch and immediately began to perform CPR until rescue arrived. After several attempts, a heart rhythm was restored and the patient was taken to Sarasota Memorial Hospital.

Officers Garrett Shaffer and Matthew Hughes: On July 22, 2022, responding to a call about a female in cardiac arrest, Hughes located the woman who was unconscious and checked for vital signs, but the woman was unresponsive. He administered sternal rubs and chest compressions. Shaffer, meanwhile, cleared the victim’s airway. The officers continued lifesaving efforts until paramedics arrived on scene.

Officers Jarrod Chapman, Ryan Block, Whitney Bentz and Dominic Farina: On Dec. 30, 2022, a call for service was dispatched for a suicide attempt, Bentz found a female subject in the water adjacent to Bird Key Park holding a cellphone with a

flashlight on. She was visibly cold but refused to return back to shore. At the time, both the air and water temperature were 62 degrees. Block, Chapman and Farina entered the water and safely brought her back to shore and provided dry blankets to keep her warm. Suffering hypothermia, she was later transported to Sarasota Memorial Hospital for further evaluation.

UNIT COMMENDATION

ATF Agent Dino Balos, Strategic Investigations Unit and Community Action Team: In August 2022, members of the units partnered with the Florida Department of Corrections during their Planned Compliance Initiative for home visits. The operation resulted in four arrests for probation violations, two warrant submissions for violation of probation and multiple weapons were recovered.

CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR

David Hubbard: As network administrator, Hubbard is responsible for SPD’s two server clusters, four server hosts, 58 servers, 31 wireless access points, 16 network switches, two firewalls and 75 miles of cable infra-

structure. In addition, he became the project manager for new IT deployments and was crucial to the creation and implementation of the SPD’s new website. During Hurricane Ian, he offered 24/7 IT support for the city’s Emergency Operations Center.

Genevieve Judge: As public information officer, Judge is the liaison between the agency and media outlets, sharing information with all city of Sarasota residents, visitors and employees. In addition to her duties, she played an integral role in the redesign of the new SPD website.

Barbara Ross: Administrative supervisor to the chief of police, during the last four months of 2022, Ross stepped in to assist the deputy chief as well when that administrative assistant position was vacant.

Marissa Moore: As administrative assistant to the deputy chief of police, Moore took on the additional role of the accreditation manager. As she learned the inner workings of accreditation and policy writing, she assisted the office of the chief by preparing reports.

SWORN SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR

Sgt. Charles Riffe: From Jan. 1 to Oct. 31, 2022, the Criminal Inves-

tigations Division was assigned to follow up on six homicides, each under the supervision of Riffe. Most notably, Riffe led the investigation into the similar deaths of two women within a few weeks of each other. His team identified a likely suspect in both cases, which was later confirmed by DNA evidence.

OFFICER OF THE YEAR

Officer Timothy Bales: A member of the Traffic Unit, Bales has expertise in working complex traffic crash investigations and conducting traffic operations. In 2022, Bales saw a need for training and assistance to patrol officers who were lacking experience in conducting DUI investigations. He offered to provide additional training to the patrol officers on all shifts, developed a lesson plan and rearranged his work schedule around the night shifts so the officers’ schedules would not be affected.

DETECTIVE OF THE YEAR

Det. John Lake: A member of the Criminal Investigations Division, Lake was vital in solving several high-priority cases in 2022, including a residential burglary case in which the suspects stole numerous designer purses, jewelry and watches. Lake reviewed surveillance footage in the area and identified several vehicles associated with the suspects, resulting in five arrests for burglary and grand theft of more than $100,000. In addition, he is also the administrator over 14 training and certification programs.

MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEDALS

David Hubbard, Genevieve Judge, Barbara Ross, Marissa Moore: After 16 months of work, the new and improved SPD website launched on Sept. 20, 2022. This team spent hundreds of hours in researching, brainstorming design ideas, creating and editing content, selecting photos and creating useful videos. In the final week before launch, the team worked into the night and weekend to ensure all content was prepared.

Sarasota Police Chief Rex Troche hands out sworn and civilian personnel awards during the department’s annual awards ceremony.

Andrew Warfield

Sarasota Police Department 2022 Officer of the Year Timothy Bales with Police Chief Rex Troche

LIVE LIFE TO THE UNEXPECTED

Modern tropical style rises to meet urban sophistication in the heart of walkable downtown Sarasota. Pairing an intimate collection of luxury tower residences with the curated amenities of a boutique hotel, SOTA delivers serviced simplicity to a stylish new address overlooking the city.

Get dressed, and dive in

Aqua-Tots

said Varwig, a student in level 4 of 8.

Fortunately, she was able to solve the problem by leaning her head backward and floating on her back.

That was exactly the type of solution the school hoped to teach during its “Swim With Your Clothes On” lessons the week of May 22, held for Aqua-Tots students in honor of National Water Safety Month.

IF YOU GO

alarmed; they’ve done this before.”

The lessons have been held for the past three years, ever since the school opened more than two years ago.

“It’s almost like you’re doing something you’re not supposed to do normally, and so they’re excited about it,” she said.

“It’s really fun to work with the kids and see their reaction, like this is so cool, this is so different,” said Dani Auld, the general manager of the location, who has also taught the class.

Staff members such as Auld can also speak from experience about the need for the class, because last year, during preparations, the school had the coaches try swimming with their clothes on as well.

“Your clothes definitely weigh more and they will pull you down, especially your shoes,” said Auld. “Learning how to compensate for how that feels helps the kids — it helped me, too — to be like, OK, I know what I need to do.”

Also included in the class is a chance for students to remove their shoes in the water, something Leary said can be a challenge, along with information about what to do when they see someone fall in the water (alert an adult).

Many parents recognize the need for the lessons, Leary said.

“The depth of knowledge in this comprehensive program shows up today,” said Hernandez’ mother, Cathy Bilyeu.

She complimented the swim school’s program, including its multiple levels through which students can graduate, the instructors’ communication with the parents, and the ease of watching the lessons through the glass wall in front of the pool.

The swim school offers eight levels of instruction, which extend from four months of age to 12 years. Levels 1 and 2 are based on age, while Level 3 and above are based on mastery of the skills.

By the end of Level 6 — at which point students are declared safe swimmers for life — they know all the strokes, including a time and tempo.

After a lesson, the coaches discuss with parents what skills they have worked on and what students can practice at home.

Staff members also hope students will be a little safer around the many pools they will encounter in Florida.

Scarlett Varwig encountered an unusual dilemma during swim lessons at Aqua-Tots Swim Schools on May 22: Her soaked sneakers and clothes weighed her down.

“I got water in my shoes — lots,”

“Chances are, if your child falls into a pool, they’re not going to be in their bathing suit,” said Lindsay Leary, who owns the franchise alongside her husband David Leary and mother Annie Rosman. “It’s a great experience for them, because if it ever happens, they’re not scared or

While they used to be limited to Saturday, the lessons have now been extended for the entire week, which Leary said was done in recognition of their importance.

Despite the serious purpose of the lessons, they offer an experience kids look forward to, Leary said.

“It’s not something I would ever think to do, so I think it’s cool that they set it up and made it a priority,” said Anna Hernandez, whose children Daniel and Mateo Hernandez attend the school. “And it’s good to get kids out of their comfort zone once in awhile.”

“Once you’ve given them the tools, once you’ve told them and help them understand, they get it fairly quickly,” said Auld. “It’s just that initial, ‘Oh this is different, what do I do?’ kind of moment. That’s why doing things like this where they practice really prepares (them) for that emergency situation.”

swim lessons teach young children how to survive falling fully clothed into a pool.

Photos by Ian Swaby

Coach Bailey Brauch teaches a group of students.

Level 4 student Scarlett Varwig is taught by coach Megan Frajerman.

THURSDAY, MAY 11 FORMER WORK VAN VANDALIZED

9:30 a.m., 1500 block of North Orange Avenue

Criminal mischief: A decommissioned work van in the process of being sold was damaged by vandalism. The complainant advised he suspects a group of transients who had recently been removed from the vacant field by law enforcement caused the damage. Multiple windows on the van were smashed by concrete blocks. There was nothing of value inside the van.

SATURDAY, MAY 13

NO FREE RIDES

3:55 p.m., 4200 block of North Tamiami Trail

Dispute: Nonpayment of a taxi fare dispatched an officer to a hotel, where the complainant advised that a man he had given a ride had exited the vehicle without paying for the service. The hotel manager assisted in identifying the suspect. Officers made contact with the suspect who said he could not find his debit card to pay for the ride, which cost $75. The driver and rider were able to reach a peaceful solution under the direction of a taxi company dispatcher.

SUNDAY, MAY 14

KEEPING YELLING TO A MINIMUM

5:01 a.m., 1100 block of 40th Street

Family dispute: Officers dispatched to a home could hear a man yelling loudly in his front yard. He was intoxicated but was willing to speak with officers, who also spoke with a woman who said he had been upset and yelling for hours. The man’s wife confirmed he had been screaming profanities at her, although the altercation never became physical.

The complainant advised she would be fine, and the man said he would “keep his yelling at a minimum.” Officers cleared the scene without incident.

TUESDAY, MAY 16

BACK FOR HIS BACKPACK

9:35 p.m., 1800 block of South Tamiami Trail Dispute: Officers were dispatched to a retail location where a man was causing a disturbance. The complainant said the man was

SATURDAY, MAY 13

POOL PROBLEMS

9:00 a.m., 2600 block of Waldemere Street Property damage: An officer met with a complainant who advised unknown suspects are entering the pool area on Friday evenings, throwing pool equipment into the pools and damaging other pool accessories. There is no video footage or other information available to identify suspects. The complainant advised the owner of the property wanted the incidents documented.

coming into the store and causing a dispute because he lost his backpack. An officer made contact with the man who stated he lost his backpack somewhere between the store and a nearby bus stop. He believed he left it in the store and was upset because the employees would not help him. The complainant advised she did not want the man trespassed, but requested he leave. The subject then left the area without further incident.

Share the shore

Sarasota Audubon Society: Nesting shorebirds need room to thrive; give them space.

As beachgoers gather just south of Ted Sperling Park at South Lido Beach over Memorial Day weekend, they may find they aren’t the first to lay claim to the site.

A colony of black skimmers relocated in early May from North Lido Beach and also happens to be consistently one of the largest and most productive colonies of the seabird in Florida, said Kylie Wilson, shorebird coordinator with Sarasota Audubon Society.

She hopes that over the busy holiday weekend, everyone can share the beach with these animals — a protected species with an oversized lower bill — and ensure they remain out of harm’s way.

“They’re out here trying to nest, trying to survive and reproduce. This is their home, and we come out here to have a good weekend,” she said.

Although the birds had been nesting in various areas of North Lido Beach since 2016, their young were repeatedly stolen by crows, one of their main predators.

As a result, they moved to the tip of South Lido Beach, a location Wilson said databases show they have not inhabited for about a decade, but where the colony appears to be doing well with at least 300 nests and more than 1,000 birds.

A 2020 beach renourishment project that pumped 200,000 cubic yards of sand from Big Pass sandbar onto the beach could have played a role, she said.

There are three main rules Wilson hopes beachgoers will observe. One is giving the birds space, which includes respecting the signage and rope she has placed around the nesting area near the shores.

ABOUT SARASOTA AUDUBON SOCIETY

The local chapter of the National Audubon Society, Sarasota Audubon Society, is dedicated to the “protection, conservation and enjoyment of birds, wildlife and the environment” in Sarasota.

Address: 999 Center Road

Phone: 941-312-6533

Email: info@SarasotaAudubon. org

Website: SarasotaAudubon. org

Although the skimmers have grown used to human activity, they still need five to 10 feet of space, she said, and beachgoers should not walk through the areas where they are gathered. She said it is crucial that these mainly nocturnal animals can rest to better protect and raise their chicks, which she expects to hatch the week of May 29 or possibly sooner.

Second, she said it is important to avoid disturbances to the nesting area, which can come in many forms, but most often from dogs. The birds can mistake dogs, even those at a distance and on leashes, for predators, making the birds feel the habitat is unsuitable, she said.

Although city ordinances do not allow dogs on Lido Key Beach, she said the rule is frequently ignored.

Third, she said it is important for beachgoers to not leave trash or food behind, as well as to avoid feeding any birds on the beach.

IAN SWABY STAFF WRITER

Ian Swaby Black Skimmers gather on South Lido Key.

A+E INSIDE:

< EATING WITH EMMA: You don’t need a plane ticket to enjoy these world-class charcuteries. 18A

BLACK TIE INSIDE:

HOT BEATS: Circus Arts Conservatory debuts

Wonderball event with DJ Steve Aoki. 19A >

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

LOVE LETTER IN THE SAND

WEDU’s vibrant documentary ‘The Sarasota Experience’ focuses on the city’s history, arts and challenges.

MONICA ROMAN GAGNIER A+E EDITOR

“The Sarasota Experience,” the WEDU documentary directed and produced by Shaun Greenspan, is the talk of the town.

“Come look at me in this movie,” said one disheveled man carrying his possessions in a cart to a commuter while the two were sitting on a bench at the downtown transfer station for the Sarasota County bus service. “I’m on YouTube.”

Lots of documentaries gain fans among history enthusiasts, cultural elites, subject matter experts and the like. But if anecdotal evidence is any indication, “The Sarasota Experience” has captured the hearts of people who don’t typically embrace the genre such as young audiences and those on the fringes of society.

When the documentary was screened at the Sarasota Opera House on April 13, WEDU CEO and President Paul Grove said he had never seen so many young people at the venue.

One obvious reason for the wide appeal of “The Sarasota Experience” is the filmmaker himself. At 44, he is relatively young and spent his formative years here, having moved to Sarasota from Connecticut when he was 12. He is at home in the city and its different cultural subsets.

Like most documentarians, Greenspan is a history buff. In fact, his doc about the Historic Sarasota County Courthouse, “Original Splendor,” helped him get the job to direct “The Sarasota Experience,” according to Kristine Kelly, executive producer and director of content at WEDU.

But, unlike most documentarians, Greenspan spent about a decade producing music videos and commercials and working on TV shows in Los Angeles. He began his career as a club deejay specializing in electronic dance music. His email address pays tribute to his alter ego, DJ Solo.

Greenspan’s musical street cred is front and center in the opening

scene of “The Sarasota Experience.”

Members of the Sarasota Orchestra perform Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9, while a cavalcade of 60 artists representing organizations such as the Sarasota Opera, Sarasota Contemporary Dance, Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, the Circus Arts Conservatory and many others embark on a spirited nighttime romp that begins in front of Burns Court Cinema.

Told the rousing set piece is reminiscent of the beginning of Damien Chazelle’s “Babylon,” the little-seen 2022 film about the early days of Hollywood, Greenspan cites Chazelle’s 2016 Oscar Best Picture winner “La La Land” as one of his inspirations for the opening sequence.

The others? Spike Lee’s “Do The Right Thing” because it “takes place on a single street,” and Orson Welles’ “Touch of Evil,” which opens with a four-minute tracking shot.

“I came up with the idea about four or five years ago,” Greenspan said. “Every time I walked by Burns Court Cinema, I thought of ‘Do The Right Thing,’ which takes place on a single street.”

It was undecided where the Burns Lane sequence would be used in “The Sarasota Experience,” according to Kelly. She says that everyone ultimately agreed that it made sense to open with the procession to establish a joyful, artistic sensibility.

“We wanted a real ‘Wow!’ at the beginning,” Grove says.

Starting the documentary with a parade of performers is a powerful way to signal the importance of the arts in Sarasota.

It evokes the lasting legacy of John Ringling, who made the city the summer home of his circus and built the Ca’ d’Zan mansion and the John and Mable Ringling Museum. “Life is short, but art is long,” Ringling is quoted by Ringling Brothers circus historian Deborah Walk in the film.

It’s not just its opening that sets “The Sarasota Experience” apart from formulaic documentaries that weave talking heads with archival footage. Prodded about why his documentary doesn’t have the flat

“It just came out of the blue. It was a dream come true.”

Shaun Greenspan on being asked to work on “The Sarasota Experience”

appearance of some others in the genre, Greenspan notes that he used three cameras instead of one for interviews.

He also took great pains to use the city’s natural beauty and its wellappointed museums as backdrops.

“In any movie, a location is a character,” he said. “Some of the places we filmed at normally cost thousands of dollars to rent, but because everyone believed in what WEDU PBS does for our community, we were lucky to have them donated to us. People were just so giving.”

Among the locations featured in “The Sarasota Experience” are the Ringling Museum, Sarasota Art Museum, Ed Smith Stadium and Bayfront Park.

When Greenspan was dreaming of his Burns Court Cinema sequence, he had little idea of when and how it would become a reality. His lucky break came when he got an email

in 2022 from Kelly, who wanted to produce a film commemorating the 100th anniversary of Sarasota County, which took place in 2021.

The city of Sarasota was founded in 1903, with John W. Gillespie as the first mayor, but it was part of Manatee County for nearly 20 years. (Viewers of “The Sarasota Experience” will learn a lot about Gillespie, who is credited with bringing golf to Florida and gave Gillespie Park its name.)

WEDU had been planning a documentary to coincide with Sarasota County’s centennial, but it was put on hold because the pandemic, with its lockdowns and quarantines, made such an undertaking impossible.

When it was time to get the project rolling again, she found Greenspan’s short courthouse documentary

Courtesy photos

Shaun Greenspan introduces his film “The Sarasota Experience” at the Sarasota Opera House in April.

The poster for “The Sarasota Experience” looks like a postcard.

online and sent an email. “It just came out of the blue. It was a dream come true,” Greenspan recalls.

It wasn’t just “Original Splendor” that persuaded Kelly to hire Greenspan. “It was his love for the city and his ability to be true to people and experiences,” she says.

By the time Greenspan received his fateful email in 2022, time was of the essence. He shot interviews with historians, architects, community leaders and others in “The Sarasota Experience” in just 10 days.

Greenspan credits the archival research of co-producer Lera Juno, the Sarasota County Division of Historical Resources and the William Hartman Gallery for most of the historical images used in the one-hour film.

With a film celebrating a historic occasion or famous person, there’s always the danger of viewing the subject through rose-colored glasses. But Greenspan managed to avoid that pitfall. There’s no question that “The Sarasota Experience” is a love letter to a beautiful, unique city, but the camera doesn’t turn away from uncomfortable topics.

Among them are the violence and property theft inflicted on the Seminoles by the Spanish and other colonizers and the virtual disappearance of the city’s first African American neighborhood in what is now known as The Rosemary District.

Greenspan’s musical orientation is put to good use when he plays a 1950s ditty “Having Fun in Sarasota” for some interviewees and asks what the song means to them.

One of the most poignant answers comes from Vickie Oldham, president and CEO of the Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition. “That song was the exact opposite of the African American experience,” she says. “No African American felt comfortable going to Lido Beach in 1952.”

While sit-ins to break the color barrier at luncheon counters in the mid-20th century have been welldocumented in print and film, few

histories tell the tale of “wade-ins” to integrate Lido Beach in Sarasota the way Greenspan does.

At first, it seems odd that the Blacks entering the water at Lido Beach are dressed in their Sunday best, but “The Sarasota Experience” notes that the demonstrations usually took place after church.

The opportunity to change society by getting involved is a recurring theme in “The Sarasota Experience.” Exults entrepreneur Anand Pallegar in the film, “You truly have the ability to shape the fabric of this community by getting engaged and being passionate about what you care about.”

“The Sarasota Experience” aired on WEDU on April 20 and screens again on June 1 and June 29. It can be seen anytime for free online.

Those who can’t get enough will be happy to learn that WEDU plans to package unseen interview footage into a series called “Voices of Sarasota” that will air later this year.

Courtesy photos

“The Sarasota Experience” makes the most of outdoor locations such as Bayfront Park.

Sean Keller, Trishul Thejasvi and Shaun Greenspan

Entrepreneur Anand Pallegar is interviewed for “The Sarasota Experience.”

Members of the Sarasota Orchestra play Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9 on the set.

THIS WEEK

THURSDAY

‘REEL MUSIC’

6 p.m. at Florida Studio Theatre’s Court Cabaret,1265 First St.

$34-$39

Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

Reel Music celebrates the movies that helped create the soundtrack to the last century, with classics like “Singing in the Rain,” “Circle of Life” and “My Heart Will Go On.” This lively music revue reminds us that movies and music have always gone hand in hand. Runs through June 25.

‘MAN OF LA MANCHA’

8 p.m. at FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail $35 and up

Visit AsoloRep.org.

Incoming Asolo Rep Producing Artistic Director Peter Rothstein directs a modern-day version of the 1965 musical hit “Man of La Mancha,” based on the classic Cervantes novel about Don Quixote’s “Impossible Dream.” Runs through June 11.

‘BIG SEXY: THE FATS WALLER REVUE’

7:30 p.m. at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N. Orange Ave.

$20-$50 Visit WestcoastBlackTheatre.org.

Nate Jacobs’ original tribute features Fats Waller’s signature songs, includ-

OUR PICK ‘MOVED TO MUSIC: VIOLIN ON THE BAY’

Hermitage Fellows Rebecca Crenshaw and Mazz Swift, two genre-bending violinists, share selections of their work and process at this iconic Sarasota venue.

IF YOU GO

When: 6:30 p.m. Friday, May 26

Where: the Outdoor Terrace of Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail

Tickets: $5. Registration required Info: Visit HermitageArtistRetreat.org.

ing “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” “Honeysuckle Rose,” “Your Feet’s Too Big,” “The Joint is Jumpin’” and many more. Runs through May 28.

FRIDAY

‘IN THE ROUND’

7 p.m. at Sarasota Contemporary Dance Studio, 1400 Boulevard of the Arts, Suite 300 $20 Visit SarasotaContemporaryDance. org.

“In The Round” is an opportunity for selected choreographers from across the country to get feedback from audience members during performances.

SATURDAY

FAMILY ART MAKING DAY

9 a.m. to noon at Creative Liberties

Artist Studios & Gallery, 927 Lime Ave. Free Visit CreativeLiberties.net.

Artist Drita Dawn will lead families in a creative project suitable for all ages and skill levels.

ST. ARMANDS FINE ART FESTIVAL

10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at St. Armands Circle Free Visit ParagonFestivals.com.

The visions and creative talents of artisans from throughout Florida and across America will transform St. Armands Circle into an extraordinary outdoor gallery of original art. Continues Sunday.

‘STEPHANIE J. WOODS: MY PAPA

USED TO PLAY CHECKERS’

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday at Sarasota Art Museum of Ringling College, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail

Included with $15 museum admission Visit SarasotaArtMuseum.org/ Exhibitions.

In her first solo museum show, Stephanie J. Woods presents multidisciplinary works focusing on transatlantic cultural continuity and memories. There is an artist talk with Woods at 1 p.m. on May 27. Runs through Sept. 17.

‘THE NEW BLACK VANGUARD: PHOTOGRAPHY BETWEEN ART AND FASHION’

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday at Sarasota Art Museum of Ringling College, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail

Included with $15 museum admission Visit SarasotaArtMuseum.org/ Exhibitions.

“The New Black Vanguard” presents photographers whose vibrant images fuse the genres of art and fashion photography in ways that break down long-established boundaries. Runs through Sept. 17.

WEDNESDAY

‘SHEAR MADNESS’

8 p.m. at FST’s Gompertz Theatre, 1265 First St. $25 and up Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

There’s been a murder in a local hair salon, and it’s up to Sarasota audiences to outwit the suspects and catch the killer in this interactive comedy whodunit. Runs through June 18.

DON’T MISS MEMORIAL DAY

CONCERT

When: 5 p.m. Monday, May 29

Where: Phillippi Estate Park

Tickets: Free Info: Visit SarasotaConcertBand.org.

The Sarasota Concert Band will honor all branches of the military with a patriotic concert and a special vocalist. The Nokomis Boy Scout Troop 1001 will present the colors. Bring a lawn chair, blanket and snacks or buy something from vendors on-site.

ELEGANTLY DESIGNED ESTATES

25

YEARS EXPERIENCE

Advantages of using a Home Designer:

• Elevate your living with distinctive, polished designs customized to your lifestyle

• Efficiency, enjoy your home in less time than when working with an architect

• Incorporating the value, beauty and light of the surrounding environment

• Assistance with other professionals, builders, interior designers, etc.

Read Article: Avoid Design Pitfalls

Your home should reflect who you are and how you want to live. We’ve designed over 1,700 luxury homes on Longboat Key, Bird Key, and St. Armands.

- Owner, Brian Phipps

941-955-1912

Joseph Ditmyer, Lisa McMillan, Michael Kevin Baldwin and Juliana Black in Florida Studio Theatre’s 2011 production of “Shear Madness,” which opens again with a new cast at FST on May 31.

Sarasota Contemporary Dance presents “In The Round” on Friday, May 26.

Courtesy photos

Places that Put the Cute in Charcuterie

Where to celebrate National Wine Day on May 25 and National Cheese Day on June 4 in SRQ and Bradenton.

EMMA JOLLY CONTRIBUTOR

Chardon-hey readers!

Cheesed to meat you. Forgive me for all the cheesy jokes and wineing I do throughout this column.

I can’t help myself — National Wine Day is May 25 and National Cheese Day is June 4. With those two holidays so close to one another, it’s as if the food gods were tempting me with a gouda time.

So, sip back and relax as I take you on a grate journey of the cutest charcuteries to visit at wine o’clock in Sarasota and Manatee counties.

MALMOSTO WINE SHOP & KITCHEN

2085 Siesta Drive, Suite #3, Sarasota; 941-706-1460,

WineShopAndKitchen.com

Chef and owner Andrea Bozzolo, originally from Italy, saved me and my husband seats for date night and it was wine-derful. The vibrant space accommodating 20 people isn’t your standard wine shop. Wine down, snack on yummy and expertly paired cheeses (and more foodie findings), and you’ll see that great minds sip alike. This vino oasis deserves a reservation for a cheesy and romantic date night.

Un-Brie-lievable: Malmosto

“meats” my expectations with its mixed imported cured meats plate ($40), served with my new glutenous weakness, gnocco fritto, which are fried pillows of perfect bread. This platter features one-of-akind meats including Culatello di zibello ham, lonzino, bresaola, plus five others. Add a cheese plate (five cheeses, $25) and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled to Italy with mouthfuls of rare pecorinos from Sardegna alongside delicious other bites. Be sure to ask about the appetizer with black garlic truffle butter

and Genova salami. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this one.

Time to Wine Down: You feel the passion from Bozzolo in the extensive wine list full of curated vinos from around the world. Bottle prices range from $38 for a Chardonnay Pearlston 2020 from South Africa to $750 for a 1990 Amarone Bertani. Bozzolo recommended the Vionier from Piedmont ($48/bottle), which won a gold medal at the Italian wine show in Verona. It was the perfect pairing for my palate.

BAMBOO ISLAND BAR

119 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach; 941803-6416, BambooIslandBar.com

I am exploding with excitement to share this gem I found while exploring the foodie findings in our community. The Bamboo Island Bar is full of good vibes and makes you forget that you didn’t fly to this dining destination; you were at home just a mere minutes ago (depending on traffic).

Un-Brie-lievable: The Monaco ($33) features a daily selection of cheeses and cured meats with fresh fruit nestled between nuts and crackers, pickles placed perfectly alongside sweet honey and housemade sauces that tie the tasty board together. But that isn’t the only board to browse. The Paris ($21) is home to a baked brie cheese with fruits, nuts, crackers, jam and looks like it should be in the Louvre next to Mona Lisa herself.

Time to Wine Down: While the wine list might not be the most expansive on our list, the gourmet food and lounge bar makes up for it with atmosphere and chic cheese dishes. Choose from 11 whites, six reds, prosecco and champagne or skip wine all together and order yourself a tropical beverage. We’re foodies, we make our own rules.

CHATEAU 13 RESTAURANT & WINE BAR

535 13th St. W., Bradenton; 941-226-0110, Chateau-13.com

According to Chateau 13 Restaurant and Wine Bar General Manager Jenn Sayko, “The best wine education is a row of empty bottles.” It’s hard to argue with that. The brainchild of a champagne-filled night at Palmetto Riverside Bed & Breakfast, Chateau 13 transports you to a stellar cellar located, of all places, in Bradenton.

Un-Brie-lievable: You feta believe I’m ordering the to-go charcuterie signature box ($55). Bring it to a dinner party, take it to a beach picnic or transport it to your car to devour immediately. This box features chef’s selections and accoutrements like house-made fig jam and cranberry pumpkin crackers to start, and serves up to four. These beautiful boxes can be ordered online – and wine, champagne or both can be added to your order.

Time to Wine Down: If you stay in-house for your cheese and

charcuterie boards ($18-$46) you will have no shortage of wines to savor. Choose from over 30 selections by the glass ($8-$18) and over 150 bottle selections ($32-$350) focusing on French, Italian, Spanish and American wines. If you can’t decide, ask Jenn and she will be your partner in wine. She suggests Champagne Collet Brut, Gueissard Rosé or Guidobono Nebbiolo.

FINE WINE & TASTINGS ON MAIN 8111 Main St., Unit J105, Lakewood Ranch; 941-355-4718; FineWineTastings.com

Tucked away at the end of Main Street in Lakewood Ranch, Fine Wine & Tastings offers “pour decision” makers like you and me a rotating monthly menu of 35 wines by the glass plus seasonal charcuterie and small plates. The family owned business hand selects every bottle that is consumed in house — which amounts to over 300 wine selections from around the world. Un-Brie-lievable: You won’t be board with your small plate options here. From a cheese board with

three assorted cheeses and season accoutrements to a full charcuterie board with meats, nuts and pickles, to the combination board, all wineers will be paired with tasty treats. Gluten-free crackers are available upon request.

Time to Wine Down: Happy hour is the time to wine. From 5-7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, sip on $2 off all regularly prices 5 oz. wines by the glass. Be sure to check their Instagram page for upcoming events, wine tastings and special offers: I took full advantage of the 20% off Muga Rosado in March. Like they say, stop and smell the rosé.

VINO BISTRO

1419 Fifth St., Suite B, Sarasota, 941-952-3172; VinoBistroSarasota. com

Local live music, a long list of wonderful wines and cheese that has you thinking, “Nothing can get cheddar than this?” — nights in the Rosemary District just got oh so bottleful to me. Thanks to Theresa LaSalle, who opened the modernmeets-new world wine bar in 2021, you bet Shiraz this bistro made my list.

Un-Brie-lievable: Build your own charcuterie board for $24 ($8 per item, three-item minimum). Choose cheeses such as the gorgeous goat cheese, pleasing pecorino with truffles, enjoyable edam and more, plus meats like soppressata and the magnificent meat that always makes its way to my boards, prosciutto. I like to add the baked feta from the tapas section.

Time to Wine Down: The bistro’s mission is “uniting the world through wine,” and I agree because wine is always the answer. The reasonably priced wine list is nothing to miss — but the daily happy hour from 4-6 p.m. makes me beyond bubbly. The menu includes house sparkling, cabernet sauvignon or chardonnay ($6) with light offerings like charcuterie bites ($6) featuring a wedge of brie and prosciutto on a crostini topped with an olive.

It ain’t easy being cheesy, friends. Cheers!

Photos by Emma Jolly

Baked brie for me? Yes, please. The Paris cheese board ($21) at Bamboo Island Bar is a stunner.

Pecorinos from Sardegna, gran poderoso, fiore Sardo, e stravecchio, sweet gorgonzola from Novara and triple cream from California at Malmosto.

Courtesy photo

Gluten-free crackers are available upon request at Fine Wine & Tastings on Main.

Chateau 13 has to-go signature charcuterie boxes for $55.

WONDERBALL

Friday, May 12, at Circus Arts Conservatory | Benefiting Circus Arts Conservatory

In the vein of trying something new, the Circus Arts Conservatory held its inaugural concert fundraiser May 12, coined Wonderball.

Two-time Grammy Award-nominated electronic music DJ Steve Aoki headlined the event, which welcomed more than 1,200 concertgoers to the Circus Arts Conservatory to enjoy live beats, drinks and plenty of dancing.

But any CAC event would not be complete without performances by students from the CAC’s Sailor Circus Academy, who entertained the crowd doing aerial acts before Aoki’s show. In addition, local DJs Tony Campos and Harrison Koffman, as well as New York City-based DJ Peter DiCaro, warmed up the crowd.

“We were absolutely thrilled with the success of Wonderball and are excited to welcome the event back next year,” said CAC Executive Vice President/COO Jennifer Mitchell in a statement.

The event benefited the CAC’s youth education program.

— OBSERVER STAFF

Photos by Cliff Roles

Melissa Morsli, event Chair Donna Koffman, CAC Executive Vice President/COO

Jennifer Mitchell and Umbreen Khalidi-Majeed

Longtime Sailor Circus Academy student Emma Clarke performs on an LED aerial hoop over the audience.

DJ Steve Aoki feels the love during the CAC’s Wonderball.

Heather Lauren

YOUR NEIGHBORS

GRADUATION 2023

SARASOTA HIGH

Sarasota High School students entered a new stage of life on May 20.

As the commencement ceremony began in Cleland Stadium beside the school, Principal David Jones spoke to students, telling them they must not let the mundanities of life distract them from the wonders around them.

Graduate Jennica Charles offered a welcome speech, discussing how students can overcome the challenges they face, by having the courage to ask for help.

Student speaker Anja Schwarzbauer discussed the importance of having one’s voice heard based on her experiences as an activist for female empowerment.

“Never be afraid to express your opinion,” she said.

Afterward, as graduation caps and confetti fell through the air, tearful goodbyes abounded.

“It feels phenomenal,” said Tatiana Vivoni, who plans to study political science at University of South Florida and then attend law school. “I’m going to do great things.”

— IAN SWABY

GRADUATION 2023

BOOKER HIGH

Families, friends and students gathered for Booker High School’s 89th commencement ceremony on May 20 at Robarts Arena.

Graduate Danae Tran played “The Star-Spangled Banner” on violin.

Graduate Ivana Rodriguez spoke about the resilience she learned from overcoming the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Another grad, Nora Mitchell, spoke about writing the story of one’s own life while also understanding others’ stories, describing everyone as “fighting their own battles and facing their own dragons on their own arduous quest.”

A third graduate, Leah Dubose, spoke about making the most of the future.

“Honestly, it doesn’t feel real, because it’s all just now happening,” said Christian Robinson, who said he was “extremely” excited to pursue a psychology degree at Tallahassee Community College.

SIMPLY THE BEST

“Personable, Attentive and Great Follow up. Anne patiently worked with me over the course of two years to find the right home in a difficult market. She was personable, patient, provided great feedback and follow up and was a great guide through the process.”

— Todd, Siesta Key

Verified by RateMyAgent

— IAN SWABY

Photos by Ian Swaby

Briana Raiola and Brooke Olson

School board member Robyn Marinelli greets Ryan Fett.

Amani Washington and Trinity Adams

Mariah Lattore celebrates graduating.

Lucas Pennington, Dylan Henley and Ben Tooley

Kailee Huguley celebrates.

RIVERVIEW HIGH

Riverview High School students finally had the chance to throw their graduation caps into the air on May 20 at Robarts Arena.

Principal Erin Haughey spoke about the importance of following one’s passion, describing the lack of joy she felt while pursuing a physical therapy degree, before realizing that her pursuit of greatness had distracted her from where she truly belonged — in the field of education.

She went on to remind each graduate that they have “a unique gift,” a skill which they “are better

at than anyone else.”

Senior class leaders all offered their own speeches, while the featured student speaker was Josie Liederman.

“Everyone here has the potential to go out into the world and earn everything. All it takes is you and the desire to commit to hard, hard work. The decision is yours,” Liederman said.

Liederman, who is headed to Florida State University to study music therapy, said she was “so excited” to start the next phase of her life.

— IAN SWABY

Are you ready for the high cost of aging?

When investing and saving money for the future and/or retirement we think about time to play golf, learn pickleball, trips and spending time with our kids and grandkids etc...

What most of us do not want to think about is the possibility that most of our money can be absorbed by the expenses involved with illness and the need for extended care.

The question is, what are my options and how do I move forward?

James Ball, a Certified Financial Planner and owner of Medallion Financial Resources, tells the story of a couple who came to see him and the husband refused to invest in long-term care planning. Shortly afterward, the man

developed dementia, eventually passing away. Eight years later, his widow called James for help. The couple’s $1 million nest egg had dwindled to $70,000, and she was only 72.

James stated, “I’m on a mission. As a financial planner, you only have to see this once to know that you never want to see people experience such devastating financial loss.”

He says he was inspired to focus on solutions for the cost of extended care when he realized that some of his clients weren’t financially prepared and protected if there is a tragic diagnosis or lifestyle altering situation.

The good news is that there are solutions to prevent this from happening.

James is one of the first

Financial Planners in Florida offering a solution for people currently under care.

This solution has never been available before.

James encourages people to contact him to determine potential options fitting to their scenario.

Start with asking yourself the following questions:

1. If I need care, where do I want to receive it? Home is normally the first option.

2. If I need care, what asset would I use to pay for the cost of care?

3. If I knew there was a solution, including using my IRA, is it something I would look at?

Depending on your answers, James can tailor a solution for your future wants and needs. He also has options if you have a parent or loved one currently under extended care. Again, this has never been available before.

Whether you need assistance immediately or you want to plan ahead, it is a conversation that all of us need to have. Knowledge and action are the most powerful tools when laying out a successful future plan.

Photos by Ian Swaby

Alancia Cox, Marybeth Damico, Mark Asadorian and Sophia Clabby GRADUATION 2023

Zachary Rubin and Ava Rudd proceed toward the stage.

Caden Singh exits the stage with his diploma.

Josie Liederman and her boyfriend, Brandon Cohen

JAMES PETER MANAGING EDITOR

Ever wanted to re-create one of Indigenous Chef Stephen Phelps’ starters or try your hand at “Top Chef” judge Graham Elliot’s risotto? Now all you need is a copy of “Cooking with Friends: An EHS Culinary Adventure.”

The recently released cookbook published by Sarasota-based EHS Recruiting Co. combines recipes from dozens of locally and nationally known chefs, and on Sunday at the St. Armands Circle Daiquiri Deck, several of the chefs featured in the book were on hand to sign copies.

There was a steady stream of food lovers with books in hand to have their copies signed and mingle with the chefs present, including Jeremy Thayer of Daiquiri Deck, Phelps of Indigenous, Ben Lalande, Jessica LoRusso, Lauren Hodges and Phillip Valdez.

Scott Rosenthal, EHS vice president of operations, said at least 1,000 copies were sold on Amazon ahead of the event and the books for sale on-site were going fast.

“Cooking with Friends” has a pair of unique hooks, said Malcolm Bell, an EHS recruiter. The book combines recipes from professional chefs with a handful of dishes from “members of the EHS family,” i.e. staff and recruiters, and every dish in the book boasts an accessible wine pairing. Local food and wine consultant Kelly Fried compiled the wine pairings from a selection of wines that can be readily found between $15 and $35.

The book also has sections on common knife techniques, herb flavors and gluten-free cooking. The level of skill each recipe requires is also noted throughout.

“We couldn’t find another cookbook with such a variety of chefs,” said Matt Fried. “It’s almost a book of surprises.”

A COOKBOOK WITH A CAUSE

Perhaps one of the biggest surprises about “Cooking with Friends” is that a recruiting firm published a

‘Cooking with Friends: An

cookbook at all.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, EHS specializes in recruiting for the hospitality and culinary industries, although the firm has branched out into other fields, including health care and construction. But the firm’s recruiters have a lot in common with the hospitality industry workers they serve — long, unpredictable hours, cyclical pay and nonexistent or insufficient health insurance.

Many of the firm’s recruiters are independent contractors, which means they don’t have employerprovided health insurance. Employers are not required to provide health insurance for contractors, often referred to as 1099 workers.

“We created a nonprofit … (to help) anybody in EHS and their families” with unexpected medical expenses or similar challenges, said Bell. “But the idea of the cookbook just comes down to insurance.”

EHS Relief is a registered nonprofit with a board of directors and was established March 1, 2022, to support the firm’s 1099 workers.

Sidra Wali

Chef Jeremy Thayer and Chef Steve Phelps take a break from signing books.

EHS Culinary Adventure’ is available for purchase at Amazon.com or during business hours at the EHS Recruiting Co. office located at 238 S. Links Ave. in Sarasota.

A Wildly Successful Launch

Wild Blue at Waterside by Stock Development has dazzled homeowners with its spectacular location in Lakewood Ranch, incredible lifestyle amenities, and luxury single-family homes from 2,300 to over 4,000 square feet, built by some of the area’s finest luxury homebuilders.

You can live your best life at Wild Blue at Waterside. With a 13-acre sports complex featuring tennis and pickleball, kayak launch, and walking trails, there’s something for everyone. The 25,000-square-foot social clubhouse offers indoor and outdoor dining, two pools, a movie theater, and a fitness center. Plus, our lifestyle director organizes social events to bring the community together.

The launch of this new waterfront community has been a tremendous success. Visit our sales center today and learn about all that’s new.

Siesta Key home tops the week’s sales at $5.6M

ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR

Ahome on Siesta Key tops all transactions in this week’s real estate. Daniel and Michele Hogan, of Seattle, sold their home at 4034 Roberts Point Road to Troy and Alana Kaplan, of Hugo, Minnesota, for $5.6 million. Built in 1990, it has five bedrooms, fourand-a-half baths, a pool and 4,599 square feet of living area. It sold for $2.75 million in 2015.

SARASOTA

SUNSET BAY

Patricia Gelfand, of Sarasota, sold the home at 1475 Siesta Drive to Mike Marcone and Virginie Stephanie Tournaud-Marcone, of Sarasota, for $3,225,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, four-and-twohalf baths, a pool and 3,750 square feet of living area. It sold for $2.36 million in 2016.

SAN REMO ESTATES

John Jaffer, trustee, and Elizabeth Keys, of Sarasota, sold the home at 3621 San Remo Terrace to Seaward Siesta Key LLC for $2.25 million. Built in 1960, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,668 square feet of living area.

GREENWICH

William and Jutta Michelson, of Sarasota, sold their home at 2207 Wisteria St. to Diane and Joseph Wisnowski, of Sarasota, for $1,975,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and 3,120 square feet of living area. It sold for $750,000 in 2017.

GROVE HEIGHTS

Mission Property Partners LLC sold the home at 1944 Grove St. to Gerald John Janis Jr., of Sarasota, for $1,835,000. Built in 2022, it has four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,883 square feet of living area.

THE CONDOMINIUM

ON THE BAY

Ostrander Investments LLC sold the Unit 1916 condominium at 988 Boulevard of the Arts to Margaret Ann Moore and Harry Arthur Moore, of Sarasota, for $1.59 million. Built in 1982, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,555 square feet. It sold for $819,000 in 2020.

SARASOTA BAY CLUB

Sarasota Bay Club LLC sold the Unit 907 condominium at 1301 Tamiami Trail to Morton and Rochelle Tarter, of Sarasota, for $1.12 million. Built in 2000, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,546 square feet of living area. It sold for $660,000 in 2006.

HOMECROFT Sara Stutzman, of Cullowhee, North Carolina, Marlin Stutzman, of Dundee, Ohio, Carol Singletary, of Franklin, North Carolina, Ada Stutzman, of Millersburg, Ohio, Merle Stutsman, of Applecreek, Ohio, and Marion Stutzman, of Berlin, Ohio, sold their home at 3540 Hacienda St. to David and Leah Coblentz, of La Jara, Colorado, and Paul and Katherine Coblentz, of Montgomery, Indiana, for $827,400. Built in 1992, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,164 square feet of living area. It sold for $85,000 in 1995.

FOREST LAKES COUNTRY CLUB ESTATES

David and Brooke Gibson, of Myakka City, sold their home at 1868 Riviera Circle to David and Jennifer Roell, of Cave Creek, Arizona, for $810,000. Built in 1974, it has four bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,758 square feet of living area. It sold for $342,000 in 2020.

Jeffrey McCormick, of Sarasota, sold the home at 2216 Brookhaven Drive to Melvin and Esther Lapp, of Paradise, Pennsylvania, for $795,000. Built in 1964, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,836 square feet of living area. It sold for $228,000 in 2014.

CITYSCAPE AT COURTHOUSE CENTRE

Lakhbir and Jasbir Hayre, of Sarasota, sold their Unit 5 condominium at 1990 Main St. to Sean O’Keefe,

TOP BUILDING PERMITS

Other top sales by area

SARASOTA: $3.25 MILLION

Indian Beach Bank of America, Ric Gregoria and Al Salvi, trustees, sold the home at 4511 Bay Shore Road to Johnson Family Partnership for $3.25 million. Built in 1928, it has five bedrooms, six baths and 5,812 square feet of living area. It sold for $2.2 million in 2017.

PALMER RANCH: $1.3 MILLION

Arbor Lakes on Palmer Ranch

of Gilbert, Arizona, for $674,900. Built in 2005, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,453 square feet of living area. It sold for $400,000 in 2021.

CASTI-LYN Jonathan Silver and Sarah Schopp, of Ontario, Canada, sold their home at 6061 Border Lane to Santa Fe Real Estate Investments LLC for $625,000. Built in 1968, it has four bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,088 square feet of living area. It sold for $250,000 in 2014.

Daniel and Cynthia Connelly, of Sarasota, sold their home at 5726 Hydrangea Circle to Amy Katherine Mahrenholz and Karl Rikki Mahrenholz, of Sarasota, for $1.3 million. Built in 2017, it has seven bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 4,911 square feet of living area.

OSPREY: $1.65 MILLION

Southbay Yacht and Racquet Club

Christopher and Michele Brown, of Osprey, sold their home at 304 Yacht Harbor Drive to Douglas and Jamie Killian, of Osprey, for $1.65 million. Built in 1978, it has three bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,324 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.6 million in February.

NOKOMIS: $530,000

Sorrento East

James and Jennifer Price, of Farmington, Connecticut, sold their home at 2268 Lakewood Lane to Kenneth and Lois Stapleton, of River Vale, New Jersey, for $530,000. Built in 1992, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,950 square feet of living area. It sold for $434,000 in 2021.

Photo by Coastal Home Photography

This home at

4034 Roberts Point Road, Siesta Key, tops all transactions in this week’s real estate. Built in 1990, it has five bedrooms, four-and-a-half baths, a pool and 4,599 square feet of living area.

FRIDAY, MAY 26

MEDITATION & MANIFESTING

3-4 p.m. at The Higher Realm, 4232

S. Tamiami Trail. Tickets $11. “Meditation and Manifesting” is a SpiritAligned intentional imagination manifestation group with Michelle Marie Angel, who has been creating spiritual education through workshops, classes, events, message cards, literary art, articles and books for over 20 years. For information, visit TheHigherRealmSarasota.com.

LIGHT DAIRY DINNER: CELEBRATE SHAVOUT

WITH CHABAD

6 p.m. at Chabad of Sarasota, 7700 Beneva Road. Free. Celebrate Shavout and hear the Ten Commandments in an event that is open to the public and intended for all ages. Enjoy ice cream, cheesecake and a dairy buffet dinner. Participants must RSVP at SarasotaChabad.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 27

VEG HEAD FEST

12-6 p.m. at Parking Lot 4 (East Entrance) of The Mall at UTC, 140 University Town Center Drive. Tickets $10 at gate; $5 if pre-ordered online. Kids under 18 admitted free. This brand-new outdoor event will feature veggie and vegan food trucks/vendors, live jam bands on stage all day, wine sampling from wineries across Central Florida and beyond, and a Spring Indie Market featuring more than 60 local artisans and more! For information, visit MallatUTC.com/ Events.

CODING CLUB

2:30-3:30 p.m. at Teen Center, Selby Library, 1331 First St. Meet other coders and work on your coding project. Share with others and troubleshoot as a team led by Levi Szantosi, whose top picks are Python, Scratch and Unreal Engine. Visit SCGovLibrary.LibraryMarket. com.

SUNDAY, MAY 28

SIDEWALK ASTRONOMY AT THE BAY

7:30-9 p.m. at 655 N. Tamiami Trail. Stop by for a quick glance at our cosmic neighbors. For information, visit SidewalkScienceCenter.org.

BEST BET

FLAGS FOR FALLEN VETS

SATURDAY, MAY 27

7:30 a.m. at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72. Participants honor fallen veterans by placing a flag beside each grave at the cemetery. Visit Facebook.com/SNCFlagsForFallenVets2017. To register, visit FlagsForFallenVets.com. To register a group larger than five people, email Meshia at SarasotaWreaths@gmail.com.

MONDAY, MAY 29

MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY

8:30 a.m. at 124 S. Tuttle Ave. Join VFW Sunshine Post 3233 for its Annual Memorial Day Ceremony and Open House. The ceremony will begin promptly at 8:30 a.m., followed by the parade at 9 a.m. After the parade, fresh hot dogs are available at 11 a.m. Bring a dish to share for potluck starting at 1 p.m. There will be raffles, baskets and drawings, so don’t miss out on the fun. For information, visit Facebook.com/ VFWPost3223.

TUESDAY, MAY 30

SARASOTA MEMORIAL DAY

PARADE BY SARASOTA JEEP CLUB

8 a.m. at Sarasota Lanes parking lot, 2250 Fruitville Road. The lineup is as follows: Gold Star Family, Veteran or Active Military, Police, Fire, Rescue. The group will then convoy as one to the main staging area on Main Street. The group will also be meeting at Buffalo Wild Wings at 5235 University Parkway for lunch. For information, visit Facebook.com/DD214Jeepers.

THURSDAY, JUNE 1 TO

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 14

SAVOR SARASOTA 2023

Summer never tasted so good. From June 1 until June 14, dozens of restaurants feature prix-fixed, multicourse lunch and dinner menus for just $25 and $40 per person. Home to award-winning and legendary restaurants, there’s no better time to explore all the culinary experiences Sarasota County has to offer. For information, visit VisitSarasota.com.

Fast Break

HOW SWEET IT WAS

This top 10 list from the high school sports year is filled with state titles, individual awards and breakthrough seasons.

RYAN KOHN SPORTS EDITOR

(1:58.66) and the 100-yard breaststroke (1:01.68); Sauickie won the 200-yard freestyle (1:45.38) and the 100-yard freestyle (49.03 seconds); and O’Regan won the 500-yard freestyle (4:49.28).

Former Riverview High softball star Devyn Flaherty and her Florida State University teammates are still alive in the NCAA Tournament. Flaherty, a junior, and the Seminoles (51-8) will play the University of Georgia (40-13) in the Super Regional (best of three) round starting at 7 p.m. May 25 on ESPN2.

On May 22, Visit Sarasota County launched a new website, Sports.VisitSarasota.com, to promote its sports tourism efforts. The hub allows users to virtually explore different facilities in the county, view upcoming events and begin the process of hosting their own tournament at a given facility.

Former Sarasota High baseball pitcher Casey Kelly, who now pitches for the LG Twins of the Korean Baseball Organization, had a rough start to his 2023 season but has changed his fortunes in May. In Kelly’s last three starts, he’s thrown 21 innings and allowed just five runs (2.14 ERA) with nine strikeouts and just one walk. Kelly’s season ERA now sits at 4.34.

Stetson University was busy handing out scholarship offers to local football players last week. Sarasota High rising senior running back Joe Ziegler and Cardinal Mooney rising seniors Griffin Gisotti, a wide receiver, and George Leibold, a linebacker, all got offers from the Hatters.

Former Cardinal Mooney

High boys golfer Wyatt Plattner got a taste of postseason action with his University of Cincinnati teammates. Plattner, a freshman, played one round of the team’s Las Vegas Regional tournament, held May 16. Plattner shot a 76 in the round. He finished his first college season having played 26 rounds and with a 73.19 stroke average.

SARASOTA HIGH THREEPEATS IN BOYS SWIMMING

The Sailors boys swim team relied on its depth to win Florida High School Athletic Association state titles in 2020 and 2021. Sarasota won no gold medals in individual or relay races during those state championship meets.

This year, the Sailors had several medalists, leading to Sarasota winning its third-consecutive title in Class 4A by 45 points over secondplace G. Holmes Braddock Senior High of Dade County.

Sailors senior Liam Heary won individual titles in the 100-yard butterfly (48.61 seconds) and in the 100-yard breaststroke (55.00 seconds). The Sailors’ 200-yard medley relay team of Heary, senior Evan Keogh, junior Ethan Ooi and junior Luca Simon also took gold (1:32.91).

“I have always wanted to win the 100 breaststroke,” Heary said. “Before this one, I had finished second and third and second again. Thinking about that going into it, it was emotional when I finally won. It’s a picture-perfect ending to my high school career.”

Heary, Keogh and others are graduating in 2023, but the rest of the Sailors insisted that all their focus would be on completing the fourpeat next season.

2

The team’s 400-yard freestyle relay team of Weyant, Sauickie, O’Regan and junior Brianna Deierlein also won gold (3:22.22).

O’Regan, who came to the school from Ontario, Canada, during the offseason particularly enjoyed the experience.

tournament in Tallahassee down three key players May 12-13 and took wins over Merritt Island High (4-1) and Bradenton Christian (3-2), the latter coming down to a final set win from freshmen pair Layla Larrick and Violet Weiser. The two wins put Mooney in the state final four, where the Cougars faced defending champion New Smyrna Beach High (28-0), ranked No. 2 in the country by MaxPreps as of May 16.

“In Canada, they don’t have the 500-yard race because they use a short-course meters format,” O’Regan said. “I didn’t know what time I was supposed to go or how I would place. I just wanted to get my hand on the wall first to get some points for the team. It ended up paying off. It was fun.”

3

COUGARS BEACH V-BALL CAPTURES A STATE TITLE, NEARLY WINS A SECOND

The Cardinal Mooney High beach volleyball team was out for revenge at the Sunshine State Athletic Conference state tournament April 21-22 in Orlando, and the Cougars found it.

The Cougars met Bradenton Christian School in the SSAC tournament final 11 days after the Panthers handed Mooney its only loss of the regular season, a razor-thin 3-2 match. In the tournament final rematch, the Cougars made sure things would not be close: Mooney beat BCS 3-0. It was the secondstraight SSAC state championship title for the Cougars program.  Mooney was not done. In a weekend Cougars head coach Chad Davis now calls “The Miracle in the Sand,” Mooney went to the FHSAA state

The Cougars would fall 3-1 to New Smyrna Beach, but Davis said he was proud of his team for hanging tough and taking a game from the Barracudas despite the missing players.

4

SARASOTA TENNIS PLAYER NAMED USTA FLORIDA PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Sarasota’s Leonardo Dal Boni was named the United States Tennis Association Florida Player of the Year on Dec. 16 at Payne Park Tennis Center while surrounded by friends and family.

Over the previous 12 months, Dal Boni, who is originally from Milan, Italy, won 90 of his 120 singles matches and 20 of his 30 doubles matches. His singles success included taking the title at the 2022 USTA Florida “Bobby Curtis” Championships in Orlando, regarded by many to be the biggest annual junior tennis event in Florida.

Dal Boni, who attended online high school classes, later committed to Furman University. Dal Boni owed some of his success to his strong mental game, which he said comes from training and from taking the advice of great leaders like Marcus Aurelius and Sun Tzu.

“It’s not just about reading them,” Dal Boni said. “It’s about being mindful of them. I always try to apply what I read the next day or next match.”

5

RIVERVIEW HIGH WINS BACK-TO-BACK GIRLS

SWIMMING TITLES

In theory, the 2022 Florida High School Athletic Association Class 4A girls swimming state meet was anyone’s to win.

In reality, it was over once Riverview High showed up at the pool.

The Rams won seven gold medals on their way to a second-straight team title, besting second-place Oviedo High by 155 points. The Rams’ 200-yard medley relay team of juniors Gracie Weyant, Addison Sauickie and Bailey O’Regan and freshman Taylor Schwenk won gold and set a state record (1:42.04) by 0.30 seconds. Weyant later won the 200-yard individual medley

RIVERVIEW BOYS GOLFER

WINS FHSAA TITLE Riverview High senior Aksel

Moe ended a strong 2022 season with a win at the FHSAA Class 3A state championship tournament, held Nov. 8 at Mission Inn Resort in Howey-in-the-Hills.

The tournament was scheduled to be two rounds, but adverse weather from Tropical Storm Nicole limited the tournament to one day. Moe used that to his advantage, shooting a 2-under-par 70 over 18 holes to finish one stroke better than three other golfers.

Moe, who signed with George Washington University on Nov. 11, previously shot 2-under par to win the American Junior Golf Association’s UHY Baltimore Junior event at Woodholme Country Club in Pikesville, Maryland in August.  6

SIESTA KEY ATHLETE COMPETES IN U.S. GYMNASTICS CHAMPIONSHIPS

He didn’t leave Tampa’s Amalie Arena with a medal on Aug. 19, but Siesta Key’s Benjamin Aguilar, who trains in gymnastics with EVO Athletics, fulfilled a dream regardless by competing at the 2022 U.S. Gymnastics Championships.

Aguilar finished 12th all-around in the nation in the Junior Men 16 division. His highest score came in the pommel horse, where he received a 24.900 combined score from the judges, good for sixth.

Aguilar began his year of competing by finishing first all-around in the Men’s 16 division of the 2022 Florida Men’s State Championships, held March 4-6 in Alachua. Level 10 is the highest level of the Junior Olympic program overseen by USA Gymnastics. At the state championships, Aguilar finished first in the

Multiple state championships, several breakthrough seasons and lots of award-worthy individual performances make up the 2022-23 Sarasota high school sports season highlight reel.  These are the top 10 moments of the high school sports year.  SEE TOP MOMENTS, PAGE 11B

Courtesy photo

Former Riverview Rams softball player Devyn Flaherty is a star shortstop at FSU.

File photos

Siesta Key's Benjamin Aguilar competed at the 2022 U.S. Gymnastics Championships in Tampa.

Addison Sauickie, Bailey O'Regan and Gracie Weyant were individual gold medalists for the Rams girls swim team, which won the state team title.

Cardinal Mooney junior Helena Hebda was the team’s most veteran player at the FHSAA state tournament.

SIS paddlers pretty (successful) in pink

It still chokes them up.

The Survivors in Sync dragon boat team, which is made up of breast cancer survivors and calls Nathan Benderson Park home, went to New Zealand April 15-16 to compete in the 2023 International Breast Cancer Paddlers’ Commission Participatory Dragon Boat Festival.

It’s a festival that happens once every four years, or at least that’s the plan. Sometimes something like COVID-19 gets in the way. Before the 2023 event, the last festival was held in 2018 in Florence, Italy. Members of Survivors in Sync went to that festival, too.

This time, Survivors in Sync placed second in the event.

Some members of the 24-person SIS roster had been to the Italian

festival. However, Vanessa Burns and Jackie Siegel-Frascella were among the first-timers. They knew it would be emotional, they said, but nothing could have prepared them for the sight of 85 teams of breast cancer survivors gathering to race and to support each other.

“It makes you think of the people who are still battling it or who have been lost,” Siegel-Frascella said with a wobbly voice.

Every dragon boat festival has at least a small ceremony for breast cancer survivors, but nothing compares to the ceremonies at IBCPC festivals. Burns said everyone gathered on the beach of Lake Karapiro, roses held aloft. The gathered participants sang songs, listened to speeches and clapped for some people with especially long battles

with cancer who were pulled front and center for special recognition.

At the end, the roses are tossed into the water. Sometimes this is done on boats, but it was windy at the time of the ceremony, so everyone stayed on shore. It didn’t dampen the event’s impact at all.

“It was totally amazing to see,” Burns said.

It’s also amazing to do. Survivors in Sync’s paddlers don’t travel just to feel emotions, they travel to compete at the highest level, despite the festival labeling itself as “participatory” and not competitive.

“If you’re not going to try to win, don’t bother going,” Siegel-Frascella said. “We didn’t know what the competition was going to be like, but we were out to beat them all.”

SIS didn’t quite win — the hometown Lake Karapiro team finished first overall in the team standings. But SIS did finish second overall, beating every team from the Northern Hemisphere, which is still a great accomplishment. SIS was the only U.S. representative to finish in the top 10 overall. The team took gold in the 200 meter race and bronze in the 500 meter race among other strong results.

The success of SIS is no surprise to anyone who has followed the team over the years. Under the direction of Angela Long, Benderson Park’s head paddling coach, SIS has become one of the most competitive breast cancer survivor teams in the country every year, as well as an important support system for its athletes. Teammates in every sport say they care about each other, and sometimes that is true, but the SIS paddlers don’t need to say it. It is felt every time they take the water, and in every smile they give each other.

It makes sense, then, that Burns and Siegel-Frascella both said going to New Zealand was the trip of a lifetime, and talking about it brings

tears to their eyes. This goes beyond the results sheet. It’s about living, for yourself and for everyone standing next to you.

The town of Cambridge was fully supportive of the festival, SiegelFrascella said. People gathered in the streets to cheer on the competitors during the Parade of Nations. Burns said it made her feel like a superhero.

And the views? Forget about it. Burns and Siegel-Frascella both stayed in New Zealand for a few days after the event, taking in the unbelievable scenery.

“The landscape is wild,” SiegelFrascella said. “You go 10 miles and everything is totally different. It’s just gorgeous.”

There are fields of green, mountains of snow, icy glaciers, and vast fjords of water that run in-between everything. It’s like nothing Burns had seen before, she said, and she’ll never forget the beauty, nor the things she did, like a tour of a redwood forest or a zip-line experience. Siegel-Frascella said she took a jet boat ride on the Dart River that whipped into 360-degree spins, and she told the story while wearing a massive grin.

It is easy to see how inspiring and life-affirming such a trip can be. It is easy to forget how good most of us have it and how that can all change in an instant with one diagnosis. But thanks to festivals like this one, and people like the members of SIS, it is also easy to remember how many people are willing to support those going through tough times.

It provides people with hope, and that is more important than any win or loss.

And second in the world? That’s pretty good, too.

PROSE AND KOHN RYAN KOHN

Courtesy photo

The Survivors in Sync dragon boat teamed finish second overall at the 2023 International Breast Cancer Paddlers’ Commission Participatory event in New Zealand, beating every team from the Northern Hemisphere.

Ryan Kohn

Vanessa Burns and Jackie SiegelFrascella were two of the 24 Survivors in Sync paddlers to make the trip to New Zealand, calling it unforgettable.

Top Moments

floor, pommel horse, vault, parallel bars and tied for first in the high bar.

7

AREA TRACK AND FIELD ATHLETES FIND SWEETNESS IN SILVER

At the FHSAA track and field championships, held May 17-20, no area athletes took gold, but three athletes left the University of North Florida in Jacksonville with silver medals around their necks — a nice consolation prize.

Riverview High boys junior Luis Castaneda finished second in the Class 4A discus with a throw of 50.12 meters, 1.22 meters behind winner Terrance Powe, a junior from Niceville High. Rams girls junior Susan Lowther — who also had a recordsetting year as a lacrosse player — finished second in the Class 4A discus with a throw of 41.86 meters, 0.25 meters behind winner Lydia Kentis, a junior from Goleman High.

Sarasota High boys senior Tyler Boyer finished second in the Class 4A 110-meter hurdles (14.14 seconds). Boyer was 0.26 seconds behind winner Markel Jones, a senior from Lake Mary High.

8

MOONEY GIRLS BASKETBALL REACHES THIRDSTRAIGHT TITLE GAME

The end result hurt, but getting to a third-straight FHSAA Class 3A state championship game, even with roster turnover and a new head coach, is something for the Cardinal Mooney High girls basketball team to celebrate.

The Cougars (21-6) got there thanks to strong play from its main scoring trio of senior Olivia Davis and sophomores Kali Barrett and Sy’monique Simon, as well as overall tight defense instilled in the team by head coach Marlon Williams and his staff.

Mooney got to the championship game with a 52-39 win over King’s Academy in Lakeland. Sophomore Bri Behn exploded for 17 points, while Davis added 14 and Simon added 11.  The team’s season ended with a 54-38 loss to Miami Country Day in the championship game.

9

BOOKER GIRLS BASKETBALL GETS TO BACK-TOBACK FINAL FOURS

For the second consecutive year, the Tornadoes used solid team basketball to pick off opponents in the playoffs and reach the Class 4A Final Four.

The Tornadoes (22-8) took down the Academy of the Holy Names 61-48 in the regional finals. Senior guard Sariah Bradley scored 17 points while junior Jakai Peterson added 13 points. The Tornadoes forced 13 steals and had 6 blocks as a team.  Booker’s season came to an end with a 65-35 loss to Lake Highland Prep in the Final Four.

10

SARASOTA SOFTBALL REACHES REGIONAL QUARTERFINALS

Though it ended earlier than the Sailors would have liked, the 2023 season was a breakout campaign for Sarasota High softball. The Sailors went 21-5 and recorded two wins over traditional local power Lakewood Ranch High, including a 5-3 win in the district championship game.

The Sailors then earned a 10-4 win over Winter Orange High in the regional quarterfinals before a 10-0 loss to Windermere High ended their season.

Sarasota was led by senior pitcher Ryleigh Bennett, who went 14-1 with a 1.44 ERA.

File photo Mooney sophomore Kali Barrett skies for a layup at the Class 3A semifinals.

Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present. Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“J HZJIT CMGT KVCCB PI IPH SMBH HZW FAVXW FMH VCBP HZW PIWB UZP FWCJWXW HZWD FWCPIN HZWAW.”

IPXVT OSPTPXJG

“E’T X YES YZNEZBZA EF JBZAVJTEFS

XFU XVPEZBEFS XFU UJEFS RPEFSK XFU

FJR CZZNEFS KJAAL CJA LJDAKZNC.”

UAZM VXAZL

“H NHZK CKGCNK RLG MPK MONK EG

ZKKC CSJLHAF ELKUJKNWKJ MAB

YLMNNKAFHAF ELKUJKNWKJ KWKA

BLENDED FAMILY by Shannon Rapp and Rebecca Goldstein, edited by Jeff Chen

By Luis Campos

RED PAGES

INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888

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.

espresso black, $170. 941-321-2694

BRASS/WOOD TRAIN

book-ends $25.00, Rick Cain

Sculpture Ltd. Ed. Lion 1996

$100.00. 941-922-4994 Leave message.

DESK/COUNTERTOP for $185like new. 917-331-4315

FOR SALE- 2 Antique bears that are in a child's antique rocker$185 for all. 941-378-3837

FREE WOODEN BOAT magazine, full set 1995-2019

Sarasota 941/925-0194

MOUNTED 8PT DEER HEADvintage 1960’s. $40. Non- smoking, exc cond. (941)504-0165

SONY HEADPHONES- wireless, good.cond, noise cancellation. $39. Bridge table, 4 chairs, used, green. $100. 941-539-9322

TRANSPORT CHAIR, used once. Paid 239. Sell for $160. Call Dave 941-928-3211

Garage/ Moving/ Estate Sales

SALE 9 9-2 Sat May 20

Channel Ln - Longboat Key