SARASOTA/SIESTA KEY
Observer
Sharks on tap.
PAGE 8B
YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2025
VOLUME 20, NO. 50
YOUR TOWN
Van Wezel cost will be a pretty penny
Estimates for performing arts center’s repairs total $17 million. SEE PAGE 3A
Courtesy image
Brenda Watty and Don Malawsky
Many faiths, one dream The celebrations of Martin Luther King Jr. Day spanned Sarasota, including not only the various events of Newtown, but also another at Temple Emanu-El on Jan. 19. The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Interfaith Tribute brought together the community to celebrate the legacy and teachings of the civil rights leader. Dedicated to Don Malawsky, who led the event’s establishment nine years ago, it featured the music of gospel singer Brenda Watty and seven speakers spanning different faiths, from the Rev. Charles McKenzie to the temple’s Rabbi Michael Shefrin. “We’re really honored to do it,” said Rabbi Elaine Glickman.
Ian Swaby
Tony McGrath, 14, Henry Webber, 13, and Michael Pote, 13, celebrate Troop 50’s anniversary.
Ian Swaby
Jesse Martins and Gabrielle Barkidjija perform.
Tuning into the town The library may be a place for quiet, but on Jan. 22, there was the sound of opera in the Jack J. Geldbart Auditorium at Selby Library. The 2025 John Goodman Performance and Lecture Series featured highlights from studio artists of the Sarasota Opera, with the public largely filling out the seats to hear classic arias and ensembles. “It’s really lovely to get to actually have events like this,” said singer Gabrielle Barkidjija, stating it allowed performers to meet the public, present solo repertoire and sing in a more intimate setting. The free events by Sarasota Music Archive, which also often include lectures, continue through March 19. $0.10
SCOUT’S HONOR A+E
Area troop marks 70th year. SEE PAGE 1B
ROUND AND ROUND Where does the roundabout art program go now? SEE PAGE 5A
A stage of operetta absurdity.
INSIDE Andrew Warfield
Poly has been installed in the roundabout at U.S. 41 and 14th Street.