If you were out and about in Sarasota recently, you might have noticed a sign featuring an unusual advertisement: pet kangaroos.
However, when the Observer called the number on the sign, it reached Neuenschwander Group, an Amish-owned manufacturer of home features in Michigan.
Jonas Neuenschwander had some laughs to spare, but no pet kangaroos.
“I have a lot of kids that jump around, but they’re not kangaroos,” he said, stating the sign was a prank planted by another individual in town.
The sign’s claim isn’t implausible. Kangaroos can be legally owned in Florida with the correct permitting.
Tiny home, big opportunities
One student’s industrial project was real enough to go to market, with Suncoast Technical College auctioning off its original tiny home completed just before 2022.
The 7-foot-3-by-27-foot-6 home involved trades from plumbing to construction, and features an array of roof solar panels.
“I think a lot of times, people think it’s just one program, this or that, but we have so many things that I think people don’t realize, between all the different trades ..., ” said educator Merlin Schenk about the school’s Open House event.
The auction closes March 3, with another showing Feb. 28. Funds will help build the next project.
$0.10
Ian Swaby
Ella Walker, Abby Duplissey, Patty Foley and Lauren Taylor Nock perform with the ballet team.
Emma Burke Jolly
Ian Swaby
This tiny home is displayed at the expo.
WEEK OF FEB. 20, 2025
BY THE NUMBERS
4
Planning Board members who voted to approve adjustments requested by the developer of Obsidian.
PAGE 3A
$407 MILLION
Projected cost to build two of the three buildings of the proposed Sarasota Performing Arts Center.
PAGE 4A
$3 MILLION
The amount of money raised for charity during the 27 years of Thunder By The Bay.
PAGE 4B
CALENDAR
■ Sarasota City Commission regular meeting — 9 a.m., Monday, March 3, Commission Chambers, City Hall, 1565 First St.
■ Sarasota County School Board regular meeting — 6 p.m., Tuesday, March 4, Board Chambers, Landings Administration Complex, 1980 Landings Blvd. (black awning entrance).
“I’m
disappointed that we appear to be letting the county off the hook on the interlocal
agreement in the TIF.”
Sarasota Vice Mayor Debbie Trice. Read more on page 4A
Red tide visits beaches over long weekend
The side effects of red tide are evident at some area beach and waterfront locations during the holiday weekend, and were particularly prominent on Longboat Key where piles of dead fish accumulated near the tide line, creating a stench prominent from the beach access parking lots.
Red tide blooms are caused by an abundance of the bacteria karenia brevis. When red tide blooms occur, the algae can cause respiratory issues and widespread fish kills, which then
wash ashore and exacerbate respiratory issues.
Longboat Key wasn’t alone in dealing with red tide, which affected beaches to the south as well,
As of Monday, Feb. 17, The Mote Marine Laboratory Beach Conditions Reporting System reported many dead fish and moderate respiratory irritation at Siesta Beach and similar conditions at Lido Beach. It reported “some” dead fish and no respiratory irritation at City Island, no dead fish or respi-
ratory irritation at Ken Thompson Park and some fish kill but no respiratory irritation at the nearby Ken Thompson Park Pier at New Pass.
On the eastern bayfront, it also reported no fish dead fish or respiratory irritation at Bayfront Park, Centennial Park Boat Ramp or Whitaker Gateway Park.
A red tide alert was issued for several southern Sarasota County beaches in November 2024, and local agencies have been monitoring the presence of red tide since that alert.
Allegiant adds seven new routes at SRQ
Now fully operational in the new Concourse A at Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport, Allegiant Air last week began service to and from multiple new destinations.
The new routes include:
■ Greenville/Spartanburg, South Carolina via Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport
■ Moline, Illinois via Quad Cities International Airport.
■ Albany, New York via Albany International Airport.
■ Elmira/Corning, New York via Elmira Corning Regional Airport.
■ Omaha, Nebraska via Eppley Airfield.
■ Roanoke, Virginia via RoanokeBlacksburg Regional Airport .
■ Great Smoky Mountains National Park/Knoxville, Tennessee via McGhee Tyson Airport
The new flights will operate up to twice weekly. Flight days, times and fares are available at Allegiant.com.
County names new director of HR
Sarasota County has selected Mike McNichols as its new director of human resources and chief human resources officer. He joins the county ahead of the April retirement of current Director Chris Louria. McNichols has more than 12 years of human resources leadership experience, with additional background in benefits, risk management and data management.
He most recently served as vice president of human resources at Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis. Prior roles there include assistant vice president for human resources and executive director of human resources.
At Ivy Tech, McNichols led a statewide team of supporting more than 6,400 employees, overseeing areas such as talent acquisition, legal compliance, compensation, benefits, employee relations and training. McNichols holds a master’s degree in sport administration and a Bachelor of Arts in telecommunications from Indiana University. He also earned the Professional in Human Resources certification.
Carter Weinhofer
Dead fish litter the beach along Longboat Key over Presidents Day weekend.
Planning Board dislikes but approves Obsidian
By a 4-1 vote, the Sarasota Planning Board reluctantly OKs the 342-foot condo tower. Next up: the City Commission.
ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER
Although the five members of the Sarasota Planning Board expressed general disdain for the proposed Obsidian condo tower at 1260 N. Palm Ave., all but one voted to permit the project to move forward over the objections of residents of adjacent and nearby properties.
The Feb. 12 quasi-judicial hearing before the board was the result of an appeal of staff approval by residents of Bay Plaza, who have argued for nearly two years that, at 342 feet, the 18-story, 14-unit tower was too tall for the quarter-acre site and was out of scale with not only the neighborhood, but the entire downtown skyline. They cited the extensive use of interstitial space — the vertical distance between floors — as artificially large and strictly for the purpose of gaining height to provide views of Sarasota Bay above Bay Plaza, which stands immediately to the west.
The appeal, though, was based on the staff granting of three adjustments not related to height, but for street-level features and functions.
They are:
■ Reduction of parallel façade coverage by 20.8%, from the 133.61 feet required to 105.87 feet proposed. The lot has 148.45 feet of total frontage
■ Reduction of the 20 linear feet of habitable space by 6.5% on the ground floor, from 105.87 feet to 99.02 feet, and by 8.6% on the second floor, from 148.45 feet to 135.7 feet
■ Reduction of the required retail frontage by 9.4%, to 95.89 feet of frontage from 105.87 feet
Although an appeal to the Planning Board opens an entire project to scrutiny, Deputy City Attorney Michael Connolly read an opinion written by City Attorney Robert Fournier, advising that, per state statute, neither the height of the building nor the use of interstitial space can be considered.
Fournier cited Senate Bill 250, which in 2023 codified a restriction on local governments to impose more restrictive or burdensome amendments to their Comprehensive Plan or land development regulations through 2026. The law invalidated an April 2023 city zoning text amendment that limited interstitial space — specifically in the wake of the Obsidian controversy — adopted to address future projects that use what could be regarded as excessive interstitial space to gain height.
In addition to the 59 feet of interstitial space, Planning Board members questioned the need for 1.9 parking spaces per unit, where a standard is closer to one space. That is significant because, on a quarter-acre lot, more spaces add height to the parking structure beneath the habitable
ABOUT THAT INTERSTITIAL SPACE
Prior to the Planning Board hearing on Bay Plaza’s appeal of administrative approval of Obsidian, Deputy City Attorney Michael Connolly shared his interpretation of the current legal status governing interstitial space between floors of buildings.
Which is to say, there isn’t any.
According to Connolly, the zoning code reads: “The uninhabited space between stories is not regulated.”
“That was intentional,” Connolly said. “That’s what (renowned urban planner) Andres Duany wanted 25 years ago. That’s what staff and the City Commission wanted 25 years ago when they adopted the downtown zoning code. Current staff thought it was appropriate to change that statement, and they did so through a zoning text amendment, which was adopted by the City Commission on April 17, 2023.
But …
On June 28, 2023, Gov. Ron Desantis signed Senate Bill 250, which stated the city shall not impose or adopt more restrictive or burdensome amendments to the Comprehensive Plan or land development regulations. The bill also applies retroactively to Sept. 28, 2022, the date Hurricane Ian made landfall.
Further, Senate Bill 250 also decreed any local ordinance that imposes a more burdensome or restrictive measure is void ab initio, which in legalese means any such ordinance is void from the beginning. In other words, “That April 17, 2023, zoning text amendment never went into effect, and the city cannot even propose a replacement for it until Senate Bill 250 expires, which is 2026,” Connolly said.
In effect, Senate Bill 250 requires that the city review Obsidian as if the zoning code still states the uninhabited space between stories is not regulated, and therefore cannot be a point of consideration in the Planning Board’s deliberations.
space, gaining further height. The zoning code in the Downtown Bayfront district allows up to 18 stories but places no restrictions on height.
Representatives of developer Matt Kihnke said the actual volume of interstitial space will eventually be determined in the building permitting process. That’s when it must be demonstrated that the height is needed to accommodate the
The proposed location of Obsidian at 1260 N. Palm Ave.
mechanical, electrical and plumbing infrastructure.
Dismissing the interstitial space and corresponding height of Obsidian as a legal reason to deny the project, the Planning Board was left with only the three approved adjustments to consider.
“The adjustments being requested have nothing to do with the tower,” said project consultant Joel Freedman. “Any project that would go on this site is going to have these same adjustments — I’d say anything over 10,000 square feet.”
That’s because, to accommodate requirements for utility, fire protection and entry features, any significant project design would fail to meet code for parallel façade and commercial square footage.
“I really, really dislike a lot about the project, but on the other hand, I think there’s a lot of good things that were done between the last time this came in front of us and now,” said committee member Shane Lamay, adding that permitted features such as 14-foot ceilings and the parking structure contributed greatly to the height.
Committee member Dan Clermont reiterated his oft-stated distaste for Obsidian, but added he could find no legitimate reason to vote against it, at least not one that would pass legal muster once the project — perhaps inevitably — ends up in 12th Circuit Judicial Court.
“The big thing for me was this interstitial space business, and whether we can discuss this or adjudicate it based on that does matter,” he said. “Setting that aside, then, it comes down to the matter of the adjustments, and I think anything that is going to be built there is going to have to deal with that.
“I don’t like this building, but I don’t have much to hang my hat on. I just can’t stand this thing, but I still have to look at our standards of review, and I’m just not seeing where
I can sink my teeth into it.”
Clermont’s sentiments were echoed by both Terrill Salem and Douglas Christy, who added, “I came into this not liking the building, but I don’t have a reason to vote that way, unfortunately, based on everything I’ve heard.”
Chairman Daniel DeLeo was unmoved by his colleagues’ resignation, and in impassioned remarks said there was plenty of evidence in the record to deny Obsidian. He also disagreed with the notion that interstitial space cannot be considered, adding the approved adjustments provide a basis for rejection of the project.
“At some point, these things matter, especially when taken together,” DeLeo said. “You have a developer who is pushing the limits in an extreme way with interstitial space, and I don’t think that the city treated interstitial space previously the way it treated interstitial space with respect to this applicant. I think the evidence in the record compels a different result.”
The next opportunity for a different result will come before the City Commission, as Bay Plaza resident Ron Shapiro told the Observer that the condominium association intends to appeal the decision. Bay Plaza attorney Morgan Bentley said he hopes the commissioners see the interstitial space issue differently.
“Obviously, the Planning Board did not like the project but seemed to feel the wording of the zoning code tied their hands,” Bentley said. “We believe that it is the very purpose of the Planning Board review is to take a more holistic view to determine whether they, on balance, believe the project is good for the community and meets the spirit and intent of the code. No zoning code is perfect, but its spirit and intent can be understood. Hopefully, the City Commission will vote accordingly.”
The Sarasota Planning Board has upheld the administrative approval of the Obsidian condominium tower, shown here in a rendering by Hoyt Architecture.
Andrew Warfield
Obsidian would be built on this site next to Bay Plaza. The single-story building with seven storefronts will be demolished.
SPAC pact future uncertain
A rising price on pared-down project, the county’s fiscal disinterest and bay view easements make commissioners uneasy over committing to next design phase.
any questions still remain following the Feb. 11 City Commission workshop on the city’s potential financial participation in building a new performing arts center. With a scheduled March 3 vote on an implementation agreement with the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation, some answers may remain elusive. Chief among them is what appears at the moment to be the likely lack of participation of the Sarasota County Commission, which to date has dem-
onstrated no interest in dedicating any of its share of the tax increment financing revenues to help pay for it. That leaves the city potentially on its own to cover half the cost — rather than 25% — now estimated at $407 million for the pared-down project, plus upward of another $25 million to $40 million of investment for utilities and other infrastructure obligations and additional parking to accommodate occasional simultaneous use of all the facilities and activities in The Bay.
Similar to the cost sharing with the Bay Park Conservancy for the park, the partnership agreement with the foundation requires a 50-50 capital investment split between local government and the organization. But capital funding wasn’t the only issue concerning commissioners. Others included:
■ How placing the 2,700-seat theater in the Centennial Park boat launch lot will impact the boating public
■ Whether the facility can be
Courtesy image
A Renzo Piano Building Workshop conceptual rendering of the Sarasota Performing Arts Center as viewed from the 10th Street Canal.
located wholly on the south side
the 10th Street canal boat basin
■ Whether the city can rely on continued redevelopment within the tax increment financing district to provide capital needed to build the theater complex and also meet its obligation to fund 50% of the future phases 3 and 4 of The Bay.
At least a majority of the commissioners will need to be satisfied when the vote on whether to approve the implementation agreement — now two years later than originally deadlined — with the foundation occurs.
Approval will trigger the next step in designing the theater complex, which since being introduced as a concept has been pared from four buildings to two, with the potential to build a third at a later date.
The concept as currently presented separates a single building into two — a 300-seat multipurpose room and a 2,700-seat main theater — built along North Tamiami Trail on and north of the canal. A future 800-seat medium theater on the south side of the canal is currently a placeholder. For storm resiliency, the structures would be elevated 20 feet with public open space below and connected by overhead crosswalks.
Joining the meeting virtually from his office in Genoa, Italy, Renzo Piano Building Workshop Partnerin-Charge Mark Carroll reminded commissioners the designs are in the earliest of stages.
“This has been a roughly five- to six-month effort from all the different teams, and you should all recognize that there will be another two-and-a-half years to three years of design work ahead of us,” Carroll said. “We don’t pretend to answer all the questions about the project, but we have answered many.”
MANY, BUT NOT ALL
Architects can address questions about design concepts, but not about government funding obligations and a decades-old view corridor easement on the property. The large theater can be moved south of the canal, as some commissioners suggested, but as long as a view corridor restriction from condominium towers across North Tamiami Trail continues to apply to the site, there would be no gain in resilience. That in no small measure is part of the
impetus for building a new performing arts center. The view corridor restricts a new building in what is currently the Van Wezel parking lot to 90 feet in height. To meet that limitation and still include a fly tower tall enough to accommodate touring shows, the minimum elevation for a finished floor level is 10 feet above sea level, roughly the same as the Van Wezel just a couple hundred yards to the west.
“So you would be building another Van Wezel,” said Jerry Sparkman, a principal of the project architect of record Sweet Sparkman.
Added Carroll, “The view corridor has inhibited us to place the large theater south of the boat canal. Maybe something changes, and then we can think about what you’re suggesting.”
The only change that could occur is a successful negotiation between the city and the residents’ associations of the Alinari and Renaissance condo towers to amend the view corridor restrictions, and that would likely require financial compensation.
Should commissioners approve the implementation agreement, that matter should be resolved sooner than later as design work would need to begin to meet the projected start of construction in the first quarter of 2028 and completion two years later.
Any delays would likely add to the estimated construction cost escalation of $42 million, which today takes the total project cost from $365 million in 2024 dollars to $407 million.
LETTING THE COUNTY ‘OFF THE HOOK’
When the project was conceived, it was envisioned — at least by the city and the foundation — that the city and county would each contribute 25% of the project cost from the TIF district funds, all of which must be spent on construction of the 53-acre The Bay park and accessibility projects surrounding it. Those revenues are benchmarked off the 2019 property values in the TIF district overlay, which covers 1,734 parcels with a taxable value at that time of $850.4 million.
All revenues from increased property tax value within the TIF district
Home Care vs. Home HEALTH Care
CITY OBLIGATIONS
CAPITAL EXPENSE
■ Half of total project cost:
$182.5 million#
■ Parking: $20 million-$30 million
■ Site infrastructure: $5 million-$10 million
■ Total: $207.5 million-$222.5 million
AVAILABLE FUNDING
■ TIF projections through FY 2049: $146,249,492*
■ Penny tax allocation: $6 million
■ Total: $152,249,492
■ Available revenue gap: $55,250,508-$70,250,508
GAP FUNDING OPTIONS
■ Ticket surcharge: $5 each = $27 million**
■ Revenue bonds parking fees:
TBD
■ Grants: TBD
# Not including escalation estimate
■ Not including underway or future development in the TIF District
** Estimated based on business plan
through 2049 are allocated to be spent within the Bay Park and the district. Via interlocal agreement between the city and county, those funds would be invested in co-equal partnership with the Bay Park Conservancy inside the park boundaries — and presumably at the time with the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation for a new facility — along with street, sidewalk and other improvements outside the park.
The Sarasota County Commission outwardly appears unanimous in its objection to investing any funds in a new performing arts center, which is eligible given its location within The Bay. Vice Mayor Debbie Trice bristled at the current assumption that the city and the foundation will have to go it alone on the project.
“I’m disappointed that we appear to be letting the county off the hook on the interlocal agreement in the
TIF,” Trice said. “This is a regional project, and the county is going to have economic benefits as much as the city is going to have economic benefits. It is not just residents of the city who will be attending performances, it will be county residents, so I’m a little bit concerned that we appear to say, ‘OK Sarasota County, we’ll move forward without you.’
“In fact, I would even advocate for putting a surcharge on noncity residents if the county chooses to get out of their agreement.”
With the county, the city’s projected $146 million TIF fund total falls far short of its half of the possible $407 million final price tag, and that doesn’t include an estimated $55.25 million to $70.25 million in new parking, utility and other infrastructure needed for the project, nor does that include any interest on bond debt, which is borrowed against future TIF revenues. A proposed $5 per ticket surcharge would net $27 million to pay toward bond debt and debt for parking construction can be borrowed against user fees.
The TIF projection, though, only factors current values in the district set against anticipated increases and current millage rates. No new projects, and there are several under construction or planned in the district, are factored. Those include — in The Quay — One Park, One Park West and Ritz-Carlton Residences II; and adjacent to The Quay the redevelopment of the Hyatt Regency hotel, to name a few. Several condominium and apartment developments are also planned or under construction in the Rosemary District, a portion of which is within the TIF district. Once those units enter the tax rolls, the revenue projections will be updated.
“I believe the county’s latest figures, if they choose to participate, are in the $180 million range which, of course, could support all projects, the Performing Arts Center and the park,” said HR&A Advisors Principal Alex Stokes of the county’s TIF projection. “And we’ll have a number of other buildings that are on the tax rolls that will make these projections substantially more assuming that things that are under construction are completed.”
“I believe the county’s latest figures, if they choose to participate, are in the $180 million range which, of course, could support all projects, the Performing Arts Center and the park.”
HR&A Advisors
Principal Alex Stokes of the county’s TIF projection
—Nicci Lieberman, President
Fruitville Road project wins adjustment for Fourth Street driveway
With no site plan submitted, the developer of nearly 2 acres between Fruitville Road and Fourth Street at North Tamiami Trail gets critical access approval.
ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER
After tackling a five-hour hearing over the fate of the controversial Obsidian condominium tower, with little discussion, the Sarasota Planning Board quickly approved an adjustment for the developer of what is generically called the Fruitville Road project.
Palsar Developments had previously secured a rezoning of a 0.95acre portion of the site from Downtown Edge to Downtown Core. The remainder of the property, at 1.1 acre, which covers one quadrant of the roundabout at U.S. 41 and Fruitville Road is zoned Downtown Bayfront.
Although no site plan has been submitted, the developer is seeking its access to the property from Fourth Street, which, as a city-designated primary street, is not permitted.
In all, the parcels to be redeveloped are at 1266, 1258, 1250, 1240 and 1230 Fourth St.; 332 and 300 N. Tamiami Trail; and 1225, 1233 and 1241 Fruitville Road. The rezoned portion wraps around the low-rise Encore condominiums at the corner of Fruitville Road and Cocoanut Avenue, which dropped its objections to the project by gaining access to the Fourth Street entrance and five dedicated parking spots for guests.
The rezoning approval returned the Downtown Edge portion to its original zoning, the result of a 2018 development plan that never materialized. It allows Palsar to build up to 10 stories in the Downtown Core portion and 18 stories in the Downtown Edge parcels.
Had the adjustment not been granted, the only access to the property would have been through a
narrow alley off Cocoanut Avenue, which currently serves as the primary ingress/egress for Encore just a few hundred feet north of the Fruitville Road intersection.
In February 2024, the Planning Board recommended against the rezoning by a 4-1 vote in part
because, at the time it was opposed by The Encore and other neighborhood advocates. It had an initial hearing before the City Commission, shortly after Bill Waddill of KimleyHorne brokered a deal with Encore and Rosemary District neighborhood advocates, which included the
shared access, guest parking spots and an overall streetscape plan to surround the entire block.
Sent back to the Planning Board with the proposed changes, and facing no objections from Encore or the Rosemary District, it recommended approval of the rezoning application.
Courtesy image
The development envelope of a future project between Fruitville Road and Fourth Street is outlined in yellow with the options for the driveway location shown off Fourth Street.
Andrew Warfield
Are we doubters or doers?
The naysaying is bubbling up over the cost of a new performing arts center. But as we’ve said before, this is not a decision for today; it’s for the next 50 years.
Elon Musk says: We’re going to Mars. Reach higher. Go all the way!
Then came the front-page headline last week: “Proposal shrinks SPAC — The latest performing arts center plan reduces buildings from four to two.”
Fear and doubt and what may also look like fiscal pragmatism took hold.
Here’s the thing: For decades, Sarasotans have proudly proclaimed this city to be the cultural arts capital of Florida. And rightly so. But if it is important to remain that, then go all the way. Not halfway. Not from four to two. Think “Elon.” Show vision. Courage. Can-do determination. With each passing day, Sarasota city and county commissioners are fast approaching crucial decisions that will determine the scope — and perhaps the fate — of the proposed new Sarasota Performing Arts Center.
But much more than that, they will determine what Sarasota thinks of itself now and, more importantly, what it will be over the next 50 years. City commissioners will decide whether they want Sarasota to be just another city, while county commissioners will decide whether they are parochial pols or whether they can be regional visionaries.
From the moment Michael Klauber, Virginia Haley and the former Van Wezel Foundation board (now the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation) had the vision for the Bay Park and a new performing arts hall in 2013, everyone knew what lay ahead — a gauntlet of resistance, obstacles, naysayers, backbenchers and what would appear to be exorbitant costs.
We are at one of those points in the gauntlet.
On March 31, the City Commission is expected to vote on whether to accept an implementation agreement with the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation. This essentially would be the commission saying it accepts the foundation’s proposal and to, well, just do it — build the new performing arts center.
That vote in all likelihood also would force Sarasota County commissioners to decide whether they will stick with what they previously agreed to do: Contribute
ABANDON VAN WEZEL?
In Ron Kashden’s “Pragmatic Review of the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation Proposed Project,” he states the foundation’s proposal
“needlessly requires the city to abandon the use of the purpose-built Van Wezel Hall.”
Jim Travers, chair of the foundation, said: Not true.
At a Feb. 11 town hall meeting, Tania Castroverde Moskalenko, chief executive officer of the foundation, publicly offered to manage the Van Wezel alongside its management of the new performing arts center.
“We’re committed to making this a cultural campus,” Travers said.
their 50% share, or an estimated $187 million in tax increment financing; or, tell the city to shoulder the cost on its own for what would be a regional center that would serve all of Sarasota and Manatee counties.
In that vein, two county commissioners — Mark Smith and Ron Cutsinger — rejected during a TIF board meeting this past May a request for $36.9 million to partially fund the Renzo Piano architecture firm’s design work.
“My view has been to save the Van Wezel (Performing Arts Hall),” Smith told us this week. “We’ve seen the cost (for a new center) start at $150 million, go to $700 million and now back to $400 million. It’s a moving target. I have a fiduciary responsibility to taxpayers. No, I can’t commit to putting (TIF) money toward it.”
Newly elected Commissioner Tom Knight said: “No” on whether he would support using the county TIF funds for the performing arts center. “That money is to be used for the park. I would never support it for that building.”
(The interlocal agreement between the city and county stipulates that “tax increment revenues from the city and the county … as they become available … will be allocated to fund any or all of the following: i) capital improvements at The Bay park, ii) a portion of a new performing arts center and iii) bicycle, pedestrian and multimodal facilities within the district.”
Commissioner Joe Neunder: “That’s an awfully expensive project. I’m a true fiscal conservative. We’ve got a lot of infrastructure issues. I’m a numbers guy. What percentage of the county uses it?”
Cutsinger and Commissioner Teresa Mast did not respond before deadline.
DOUBT AND FEARS
To cast further doubt and fears, Ron Kashden, who ran unsuccessfully for City Commission in November and is an independent auditor for the Shubert Organization, submitted prior to the Feb. 11 commission workshop a 21-page report, titled “Pragmatic Review of the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation Proposed Project.” His conclusion:
“Current PAF concept is financially unviable … The scale of the proposal exceeds the available funding from the TIF district.” His report recommended and urged “a proper-scaled project could stay within the TIF’s funding capacity.”
(To read Kashden’s report, go to: YourObserver.com/OpinionKashden.)
At the end of the Feb. 11 commission workshop, at which commissioners saw a scaled down concept — from four to two buildings, with potential for a third building that would be a midsize theater, newly elected Commissioner Kathy Ohlrich referred to a new projected cost of the project ($407 million) as “the elephant in the room.”
Let’s be honest here. Surely, most everyone involved in visualizing a new performing arts center and familiar with such efforts knew
such a facility would exceed $150 million. In Nashville, for instance, that city also is in the design phase of developing three theaters that would accommodate 4,300 seats at a cost of $600 million, or about $140,000 per seat. The scaleddown design in Sarasota would accommodate 3,000 seats at an estimated cost of $365 million, or about $122,000 per seat. Orlando’s Dr. Phillips Center, with 1,764 seats, ran $185,000 per seat.
But noteworthy is that in Nashville, the financing is going to be 80% public, 20% private. In Orlando: 75% public, 25% private.
In Sarasota: 50%-50%.
That is important in two respects for those who doubt: 1) The citizens of Sarasota city and county will get a new performing arts center at half the cost of what it would take if totally taxpayer funded; and, 2) The cost of a new performing arts center will never be lower than what is being proposed today.
And let’s be honest again: We’ve seen varying projected costs of $1 million, $9 million or $17 million to upgrade the Van Wezel. Those who believe doing so will serve this region’s needs adequately for another 50 years are, well, delusional.
The Van Wezel, iconic as it may be, is on the downslope of the curve toward becoming obsolete when compared to the needs and technologies of today’s modern performing arts centers. If it is difficult for Sarasota to attract first-run shows and entertainers, it will become increasingly so as the Van Wezel continues to age.
We’ll have a souped-up, DIY 1970 Corvette trying to race against 2025 Porsches. Sarasota will be just another city; a memory as the cultural arts capital of Florida.
IS THE MONEY HERE?
Yes, $407 million for two structures, or $500 million for three is a lot of money. (Remember: only half of that coming from taxpayers.)
And yes, it’s mind-boggling to think there are enough private contributors when you consider the other major fundraising ventures underway in the region. As Kashden pointed out:
■ Sarasota Orchestra’s new music hall ($375 million to $425 million)
■ The Mote aquarium ($130 million)
■ Selby Gardens, phase 2 ($60.9 million)
■ Ringling College signature building ($175 million)
■ The Bay, future phases ($54.75 million)
■ Florida Studio Theater Arts Plaza ($46 million)
Altogether, including the performing arts center, that’s nearly $1 billion to fund arts and recreational facilities in this midsize city.
Is all that money really here, and is it realistic to believe the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation can raise more than $200 million to cover its share?
Jim Travers, chair of the foundation, shows no doubt.
“I am confident we can do our part,” he told us. “We’ve done a lot on fundraising in advance. Many of the people moving here are coming here for the arts. The private donors
President and Publisher / Emily Walsh, EWalsh@YourObserver.com
Executive Editor and COO / Kat Wingert, KWingert@YourObserver.com
Managing Editor / Michael Harris, MHarris@YourObserver.com
Staff Writers / Ian Swaby, ISwaby@ YourObserver.com; Andrew Warfield, AWarfield@YourObserver.com
One, Travers noted, has expressed a readiness for naming rights. “On a project like this, you’re talking around $50 million for naming rights,” he said.
What’s more, Travers said, based on consultants’ estimates, the projections for the cash to be generated from the TIF district surrounding the Bay Park are underestimated. Current estimates do not include the effects of 12 new condominium projects either not on the tax rolls yet or slated to be built in the TIF district.
Tania Castroverde Mostalenko, CEO of the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation, said its consultants estimate the county’s current projection of $376 million in TIF funding is about 50% below eventual TIF revenues. The consultants are estimating more than $775 million total in TIF funds through the 30-year term.
“Bottom line,” Travers said, “we believe the money is there.”
INFRASTRUCTURE OR THE ARTS?
Timing is everything indeed. In one respect, the timing to pursue the original vision of the Bay Park and a new performing arts center is propitious. The formation of the TIF came just before a construction boom around the Van Wezel site and when the city of Sarasota is experiencing robust economic and capital growth.
But in one respect, the timing was unpropitious. It came when three hurricanes brought to the fore growing needs to retrofit much of the city and county’s outdated stormwater drainage infrastructure.
Most likely, if you queried the populace on what is a higher priority — fixing storm drainage infrastructure versus a new performing arts center, the answer would be the storm drainage. It affects more people.
And for sure, that makes sense.
But can both be accomplished at the same time?
Elon Musk would find a way.
With the leadership rallying the populace, along with rallying city and county commissioners — from Sarasota down to North Port — where there is a will, there is a way.
Not halfway. Go all the way.
We’re always hearing it’s too expensive; only a few benefit; it should not be built on the bay, yada, yada, yada.
But look at what the arts have brought this region over the decades. They have attracted affluent and highly affluent residents and snowbirds who love the arts and whose wealth has made this region one of the most generous, charitable places in Florida for helping those in need.
What’s more, success begets success. No other place in Florida would have the iconic design of a Renzo Piano performing arts campus, the equivalent of a Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece, and sitting amid an extraordinary Bay Park for all.
As we noted Jan. 30, this undertaking is not for us. It’s for the next 50 years. It will take vision, courage and can-do determination. Defend the title as the cultural arts capital of Florida.
Regional Sales Director / Penny Nowicki, PNowicki@YourObserver.com
Regional Digital Director / Kathleen O’Hara, KOHara@YourObserver.com
Senior Advertising Executive / Laura Ritter, LRitter@YourObserver.com
Advertising Executives / Richeal McGuinness, RMcGuinness@ 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 / Anna Reich, AReich@YourObserver.com
Sales Operations Manager / Susan Leedom, SLeedom@YourObserver.com
Advertising Graphic Designers / Luis Trujillo, Taylor Poe, Louise Martin, Shawna Polana
Digital Developer / Jason Camillo, JCamillo@YourObserver.com
Information Technology Manager / Homer Gallego, HGallego@YourObserver. com
Chief Financial Officer / Laura Strickland, LStrickland@YourObserver.com
Controller / Rafael Labrin, RLabrin@ YourObserver.com
Office and Accounting Coordinator / Donna Condon, DCondon @YourObserver.com
Observer Media Group Inc. is locally owned. Publisher of the Longboat Observer, East County Observer, Sarasota/Siesta Key Observer, West Orange Times & Observer, Southwest Orange Observer, Business Observer, Jacksonville Daily Record, Key Life Magazine, LWR Life Magazine, Baldwin Park Living Magazine and Season Magazine
CEO / Matt Walsh
MWalsh@YourObserver.com
MATT WALSH
Courtesy image
This Renzo Piano concept rendering shows an elevated performing arts center with a connecting walkway to a multipurpose building and public recreational space below. Windows facing Tamiami Trail would allow some see-through views.
Committee begins to weigh options for Van Wezel
With five months to go, the Purple Ribbon Committee shifts to discussion on ways to repurpose Sarasota’s primary performance venue.
ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER
After more than a year of information gathering and receiving presentations, Sarasota’s Purple Ribbon Committee is turning the page toward preparing its report to the City Commission.
For the first time since it began meeting in summer 2023, the ad hoc group on Feb. 12 entered into discussions of its impressions of the data received to date, with a little more yet to come, as it begins to develop its recommendations for the repurposing of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.
That re-use depends on whether the City Commission approves an implementation agreement — due in March — with the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation that would allow the next stage of design work to begin on a new Sarasota Performing Arts Hall. If not, at least for now, the Van Wezel will continue its current use.
Some members appear to have staked positions on potential uses for what is now, at 1,741 seats, the city’s primary performance venue.
There appeared consensus, barring any new data, that a survey among performing arts groups throughout the community demonstrated little interest in staging at the Van Wezel either because of its size and cost, which is prohibitive for community arts organizations. That survey yielded only a 15% response.
“I’m not sure how anybody can make a recommendation when we don’t have sufficient input,” said member David Rovine.
Facilitator Jim Shirley suggested a partial reason for the apathy.
“Several of the bigger groups did not respond because they have a venue and don’t have need for another venue,” Shirley said. “There was no need for them to respond because they’ve got a place. They’re not going to go to another place.”
Any recommendation the committee makes will also likely not include converting the Van Wezel into a meeting and convention space.
During her appearance before the committee, Visit Sarasota County President and CEO Erin Duggan said Sarasota is a niche meeting destination without the need for a space that large, and meeting organizers that do consider Sarasota generally look for spaces located within, or in close proximity to, hotels.
Presenters from Ringing College or Art and Design had presented the possibility of the Van Wezel becoming a destination for immersive exhibits and entertainment.
“I think we all heard that immersive entertainment is what’s happening now,” said Rovine.
Any discussion about the Van Wezel as an extreme sports venue also gained no traction in the initial discussion.
That leaves the committee, for now at least, where it started as it awaits the final Karins Engineering report on the building, due at its Feb. 24 meeting, and with five months remaining until its report is due.
File image
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall seats 1,741 for touring performances.
Rooted in History: Ringling Museum and New College
Shifting the Ringling Museum under New College is not just logical; it ensures the museum’s legacy remains deeply intertwined with Sarasota’s cultural and educational future.
Some opportunities arise unexpectedly, and when they do, they make undeniable sense.
The decision to bring The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art under the stewardship of New College of Florida is one of those moments — an alignment that strengthens Sarasota’s role as Florida’s premier hub for arts, education and scholarship, while ensuring that this historic and cherished museum remains deeply connected to and preserved by the community that has shaped it for nearly a century.
This transition is not only sensible; it is a collective win. It is a win for Sarasota, reinforcing its reputation as a global leader in the arts and higher education; boosting tourism, cultural engagement and economic growth — all while preserving a historical gem.
It is a win for The Ringling Museum, which will receive an infusion of resources to elevate its world-class exhibitions, research and outreach.
It is a win for New College, strengthening its continued growth and academic prestige by offering students unparalleled
access to one of the most significant cultural institutions in the region.
And it is a win for Florida, ensuring that our state’s higher education system continues to build one of the nation’s most prestigious liberal arts schools.
Sarasota has long been recognized as Florida’s artistic and cultural epicenter, a distinction dating back to 1927 when John Ringling moved the Winter Quarters of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus to the city from Bridgeport, Connecticut.
This decision transformed Sarasota, attracting artists, performers and visionaries who established one of the nation’s most vibrant arts communities.
At the same time, New College of Florida has been a vital part of Sarasota’s intellectual and cultural evolution. Founded in 1960 on land originally part of the Ringling estate, New College has always shared a deep connection with The Ringling Museum. For decades, students and faculty have collaborated with the museum, conducting research, curating exhibitions and engaging in artistic exploration and community events.
Moving The Ringling from FSU in Tallahassee to New College’s stewardship on its neighboring property is not just logical. It ensures the museum’s legacy remains deeply intertwined with Sarasota’s cultural and educational future.
While this transition strengthens local stewardship, it also opens new doors for collaboration with other institutions across Florida, expanding research
partnerships, student engagement and statewide academic initiatives in the arts and humanities.
With New College providing direct oversight, The Ringling Museum not only will sustain its role as one of Florida’s premier cultural institutions, it will also grow in ways that expand access to art, history and performance while ensuring its long-term sustainability and historic preservation.
For New College students, this deepens their connection to Sarasota’s artistic and academic resources, enriching their education while reinforcing New College’s commitment to fostering innovation in the arts. For The Ringling Museum, this transition
ADVERTISEMENT
secures its future by increasing resources, expanding programming and research and strengthening community ties. As New College enters a period of unprecedented growth, the marriage with The Ringling Museum strengthens our role as a premier liberal arts institution that leads, inspires and innovates.
We are proud to take on this responsibility, to champion Sarasota’s artistic and academic legacy and to build upon the foundation that John Ringling laid nearly a century ago, shaping the city’s future for generations to come.
Richard Corcoran is president of New College of Florida.
When Alan Gravley and Stan Writesel named their Sarasota interior design company Beginning to End Interiors in 2002, it wasn’t just a catchy marketing phrase. The name, often shortened to B2End, reflects both the scope of their expertise and their deep commitment to every project.
“We’re here to help our clients navigate the often overwhelming maze of design and renovation decisions,” says Gravley.
“There are more misconceptions out there than you might think.” Take permitting, for example: Remodeling projects typically require permits and must adhere to specific building codes. A professional ensures your project complies with local regulations and handles the necessary paperwork, minimizing the risk of fines or the need to redo work that doesn’t meet code.
“I usually have a pretty frank and honest conversation with clients before we start to assess needs going forward,” says Gravley. “It’s important to age up with your home and think about things like
making bathrooms ADA-compliant if you plan to stay there.”
That’s where B2End comes in-guiding clients through everything from infrastructure updates and color palettes to reimagining entire floor plans. They help with custom cabinetry, smart lighting systems, and sourcing high-quality, comfortable furniture that fits both
As New College enters a period of unprecedented growth, the marriage with The Ringling Museum strengthens our role as a premier liberal arts institution that leads, inspires and innovates.
lifestyle and space, all while working with trusted contractors and vendors they’ve partnered with for years.
Gravley’s level of experience proves invaluable in times of crisis. Poststorm renovations? B2End has guided restoration of homes hit by floods, recommending resilient materials like Luxury Vinyl Tile over laminate for flooring. Structural damage from hurricanes? They’ve helped rebuild not just walls, but the spirit of homes, with future resilience in mind.
The Beginning to End Interiors team approaches every project-whether a seaside condo refresh or a full home makeover-with thoughtful, tailored design that brings each client’s vision to life. For them, design isn’t just about beauty-it’s about creating spaces that feel like home, from start to finish.
Their design philosophy focuses on the do’s and don’ts of lasting choices. Do invest in timeless, high-quality materials, plan for future needs like ADA-compliant features, and embrace natural light and open layouts. Don’t follow fleeting trends, underestimate the complexity of renovations, or move old furniture into a new space without considering style and practicality.
At B2End, every decision is made with intention, creating functional, beautiful spaces that are perfectly suited to each client’s needs. It’s not just about designit’s about crafting homes that truly feel like home.
RICHARD CORCORAN PRESIDENT, THE NEW COLLEGE OF FLORIDA
File image
The Ringling Museum has been in the hands of Florida State University, but that may shift to New College.
Make A Plan.
Charter school contracts, textbooks approved
The school board approved contracts for three existing charter schools and approved science textbooks for all grades.
IAN SWABY STAFF WRITER
s Sarasota’s school board convened Feb. 18, it approved contracts for three of the county’s existing charter schools, while also approving the district’s selected science textbooks.
CHARTER CONTRACTS RENEWED
The school board approved contracts with two existing Sarasota-based charter schools, Dreamer’s Academy and Sarasota Military Academy. It also renewed a contract for Island Village Montessori School in Venice.
Charter schools are public schools that operate independently, under a performance contract with the district known as a “charter.”
Dreamer’s Academy was approved for a contract amendment that allows an expansion from a K-5 to a K-8 school, beginning with 6th grade in the 2025-2026 school year.
The school is centered on a program of dual-language immersion, alternating instruction in English and Spanish.
During a Jan. 7 board workshop, district staff said despite a grade decrease from an “A” grade during the 2022-23 school year, to a “C” in the 2023-24 year, the school was working to increase scores, having voluntarily submitted to an impact review.
“It was such a joy to interact with that team, to feel their vision and passion to know that they’re going to create great pathways and continue to advance performance so that opportunity is of the highest quality in our district,” said Deputy Superintendent and Chief Academic Officer Rachael O’Dea.
The board also renewed its contract with Sarasota Military Acade-
my, a JROTC-based school currently serving nearly 1,000 students.
The school has maintained a grade of “B” over the last two years, rising above a “C” from 2021 to 2022 and a B from 2018 to 2019.
“We walk the walk and talk the talk. Not only do we expect this of our cadets, but we expect this of our staff as well, and hold them to high expectations,” said CEO Christina Bowman, the school’s CEO.
She said when the school was previously an “A” school, it had held a focus on the basics and on literacy in every content area, something the school’s current multifaceted plan would return to.
The contract for Island Village Montessori School in Venice was also renewed. The school serves kindergarten through eighth grade using a Montessori-based instructional approach.
“These three schools that we will be voting on today actually capture the essence of what school choice is meant to be, so I’m delighted to be able to approve all three of them,” said board member Tom Edwards.
TEXTBOOKS APPROVED
The board also approved the district’s selection of science textbooks across all grades.
Book brands included McGraw Hill, Discovery, Savvas, National Geographic Cengage, Pasco Scientific and Kiddom.
During a Jan. 14 meeting, the requirement that the board adopt state-specific versions of books had drawn concern from the public.
“If you want to prepare students to be at the forefront globally in things like biotechnology, biomedical research, they need a much more rigorous background than with censored books and a censored curriculum,” said Robin Williams on Jan. 18.
At a Jan. 14 meeting, board member Liz Barker expressed shared concerns, while noting the review committee, on which she served, performed “hours, and hours and hours of painstaking reviewing and rating textbooks.”
Step inside to bayfront residences unequaled in Sarasota, perhaps because they open to a panorama of the city’s entire skyline. Here is a stage for expansive living — a breathtaking esplanade, pool terrace, and even, a berth for your boat. This is that once-and-forever moment. Add your name to our early interest list.
Choice words
Meticulous wordsmithing of the mission and vision statements sets the tone for the list of project goals for Sarasota’s 2026 strategic plan.
ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER
Any viable strategic plan starts with mission and vision statements, setting the tone for developing an organization’s goals and a blueprint for how to achieve them.
The Sarasota City Commission embarked on that task at a Feb. 14 workshop, a five-hour meeting that began with an hour of wordsmithing drafts of both statements. Facilitated by consultant Martin Hurwitz, commissioners grappled with subtle nuances intended to impart the correct message to both the documents that follow and the public at large.
Although all five commissioners brought varied ideas to the discussion, consensus was statements crafted for the 2024 plan were no longer adequate. That mission statement reads: “To provide highquality services to our residents, businesses and visitors while safeguarding our natural resources and building a prosperous community.”
For the new mission statement, the commissioners debated such words as growth — which they deemed a “lightning rod” — and whether the mission statement implied that it applies to aspirations for all residents if the word “all” is not included. And does “prosperous,” whose root word is predominant in the city seal, cause some communities within the city to feel marginalized.
“To some extent, this is a concern about the city, in many respects, is a tale of two cities,” said Vice Mayor Debbie Trice. “We have the prosperous, thriving people and we have the people who are not doing well and are wondering why they’re being left behind. So if anything, maybe I would add a word ‘all’ to high-qual-
WANT TO WATCH?
The City Commission workshop on the two-year strategic plan can be viewed on the city’s website at SarasotaFL.gov.
ity services to all our residents, businesses and visitors.”
Dominant among some 700 responses to a survey of city residents, businesses and organizations, Commissioner Jen Ahearn-Koch said, was an emphasis on safety, adding whether the word “safeguarding” implied public safety or if it was applicable only to preserving tangible aspects such as culture, history and natural resources.
She recalled the discussion about the 2024 Strategic Plan over the broader implication of the phrase “safeguarding our natural resources and building a prosperous community.”
“I remember the last discussion when we were trying to get some more words in there, (Hurwitz) would say, ‘Can you have a prosperous community if you’re not safe?’”
Ahearn-Koch said. “I know the word safeguarding is there, but for me, safety is not forefront, which I feel is part of the response that we got from some of our citizens.”
Trice wondered aloud whether adjectives such as innovative are necessary as they don’t apply to everyone.
“There are the people who are left behind who don’t have sewers, don’t have roofs. We’re busy talking about innovative and they’re saying, ‘Oh, yeah, you’re doing that downtown for the people who live on the waterfront and leaving us behind,’” Trice said. “Let’s not overdo the innovative
stuff when there are people who are still halfway back in the 20th century.”
Ultimately, the draft of the mission statement, with future tweaks expected, reads: “To provide highquality and responsive services to our residents, businesses and visitors while safeguarding our natural resources while preserving our cultural heritage and building a prosperous community for all.”
That set off a brief discussion of whether the reference to “businesses” would be construed as including nonprofits and charitable organizations. Perhaps “community members,” it was suggested, would be more encompassing. With no appetite to continue parsing the mission statement, Hurwitz cut off the debate, saying, “We can keep cutting the bread in as many pieces as we want. At some point in time, they’re going to get too small to eat.”
The discussion turned to the vision statement, which the 2024 Strategic Plan version reads: “A world-class community and treasured destination, with enduring natural beauty, charm and diversity.”
Hurwitz told commissioners there are multiple measures of world-
class. Ahearn-Koch also bristled at the term, suggesting using such a superlative comes across as arrogant and that the city can be aspirational without being arrogant.
“We are a place where people can grow and live and enjoy and vacation and retire and raise a family,” she said. “That sort of makes me feel like we’re patting ourselves on the back too much.”
For now, the working mission statement reads: “A city with enduring natural beauty, charm and diversity, and the opportunity to pursue a variety of interests and thrive.”
“‘A variety of’ needs a little more tweaking,” Trice added. “But I think we could stick with that for now.”
What is to follow the eventually refined mission and vision statements, when the Strategic Plan is developed, will be an explanation of how city projects are identified and selected, then a matrix of initiatives to guide the city’s planning for the next two years.
Strategic plans are laid out in twoyear increments because, every other year, the composition of the City Commission can change by either the three district or the two at-large seats.
Leaxperts™
File photo
Sarasota City Hall
Mary Ann Waters Robinson, 97, passed peacefully at home on January 2, 2025, attended by her devoted caregivers. On this day, Sarasota lost a longtime community philanthropist and party planner par excellence.
Mary Ann was born on May 28,1928, to Austin and Daisy Breyer, in Madison, Wisconsin. Mary Ann would fondly recall how her father, a dentist, would accept baked goods, eggs or other offerings from his patients who could not afford his services. This was her first introduction to charitable giving.
Mary Ann was attending the National College of Education in Evanston, IL when she met her future husband, Charles (Chas) Waters. They wed October 16,1948, shortly after he graduated from
Northwestern University. Chas confounded AEC, Inc. and they eventually settled in Barrington Hills, IL. Their family grew to include daughters Karen and Jody, and son Michael. Mary Ann was actively involved in all her children’s various pursuit’s. She was an enthusiastic and accomplished hostess, giving many parties over the years in support of Chas’ business interests and for the benefit of many charitable causes. She was a board member and volunteer mentor for 16 years at a Catholic school in Chicago that served emotionally disturbed, abused and disadvantaged boys. Mary Ann and the nuns she worked with, would take a group of boys for nine days each in several groups over the course of the summer, to the Water’s 3000 acre ranch in Holton, KS. There
the boys enjoyed horseback riding, swimming, camping and other outdoor adventures under the loving and spirited guidance of Mary Ann. She directed and choreographed the annual Follies at her country club in Barrington for many years and was a member of the Sarah Siddons organization in Chicago. She and Chas traveled extensively with their family, often with a large group of their Barrington Hills friends.
Life was good for 36 years until Chas passed in April, 1984, after a brief battle with cancer. Mary Ann relocated to Venice, FL to join several of her “Barrington Girls” who had settled there She was soon introduced to Robert K. (Robbie) Robinson and a whirlwind courtship ensued. They married in September,1986, moved to Osprey, where they made long-standing friendships and eventually settled in downtown Sarasota. Mary Ann and Robbie shared a never ending love of sporting activities including golf, skiing, scuba diving, boating, and hiking. They traveled extensively, often with friends and family, to many destinations in the US and abroad.
Every year, for over 30 years, Mary Ann spent her birthday at an African safari cam, Mala Mala, in South Africa. It was her favorite place in the world. When she lost her beloved Robbie in 2009, after 23 years of marriage, she took his ashes to Mala Mala in memory of the wonderful times they spent there. She certainly did not let travel prevent
her from her commitments to innumerable charitable causes in Sarasota over the years.
Mary Ann didn’t just give money. She also gave of herself. She was an original volunteer with Safe Place And Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC), carrying a beeper and heading out in the dead of night to pick up abused women and take them to the SPARCC shelter. In later years, among many other contributions, she donated funds to build a pet shelter at SPARCC when she learned that battered women were often reluctant to leave their abusive situations if they had to leave their pets behind. She served on the
She lived to shop, claimed she had no need for a budget and that
and
Board for 15 years, three of them as President.
When AIDS became a cause of concern and many
boards of Designing Women, the Asolo Theatre, YMCA Foundation, Circus Sarasota, West Coast Black Theatre Troupe and the Sarasota Film Festival to name a few. She supported the Animal Rescue Coalition, Florida Studio Theatre, Laughter Unlimited, Catholic Charities and a plethora of other causes and organizations. She could never say no to any request. Mary Ann received many accolades and awards for the gifts she gave to the community and for her hard work for numerous charitable groups, though recognition was never her goal.
Mary Ann was a talented party planner and lent her skills to varied causes. She initiated the “Going for the Gold” event which became the main fundraiser for the YMCA Foundation and it continues to this day.
Mary Ann was a fun loving person with a great sense of humor and her red hair certainly matched her personality. She was kind, loyal, compassionate and generous. She genuinely loved people, regardless of their station in life, and treated everyone with equal respect. She was always impeccably dressed and
participants needed to be in top physical condition, able to withstand below freezing temperatures for prolonged periods of time and endure harsh conditions. Mary Ann had the time of her life with no complaints. She could enliven a room with her laugh and somehow quickly turn a stranger into a friend. She lived to shop, claimed she had no need for a budget and that calories didn’t count if you consumed them standing up. She loved a good joke and hot gossip. She was an absolutely amazing woman and will be sorely missed by so many.
Mary Ann was predeceased by her parents, husbands Chas Waters and Robbie Robinson and her daughter Jody Waters. She is survived by her daughter, Karen Werner and son Michael Waters (Adde) and step-daughters Shari Robinson (Dick Parsons) and Nancy Lippert (Larry). She leaves behind grandchildren Brian Werner (April), Meagan Werner Mann (Steven), Katelyn Werner, Chas Waters (Julieth), Shannon Schnelbach (Justin), Alexandra Eheart (Corey), Channing Hunker and ten great-grandchildren. Also left to mourn her are valued
Andrew L. Clark, Esq.
M. Michelle Robles, Esq.
M. Flinchpaugh, Esq.
1212 CENTER PLACE | Lido Shores | $6,995,000 – New Construction | 5 Beds | 6 Baths | 4,750 Sq. Ft. Steps to Private Beach Community | Ready for Occupancy | Contact: Patrick DiPinto 941-323-0033
You’ve dreamed of building your own custom island home for years, but the idea of dedicating three years to making that dream a reality can feel overwhelming. Seaward Homes has the solution: 1212 Center Place in Lido Shores.
This custom-designed home, just steps from your private beach access, is now available. Built by Sarasota’s premier home builder, Seaward Homes, this property is part of our exclusive Seaward Curated Collection. We take pride in delivering a very limited number of custom homes each year, ranging from 5,000 to 20,000 square feet, West of the Trail and on the Sarasota islands.. Our business model focuses on delivering fewer homes while maintaining the highest quality. A reputation we’ve built over the past 30 years.
We use only the finest materials, collaborate with top consultants and trades, and leverage the latest technologies to ensure every detail of each project is a success. Our Seaward Curated homes feature elevated first-floor designs, superior concrete structural elements, and glass systems that often exceed code requirements-ensuring beauty, strength, and durability. Additionally, we offer clients construction schedules, open-book pricing, and a dedicated full-time project manager for added peace of mind. May we assist you with your new build?
• Exciting 1,100 sq ft rooftop terrace with views of Sarasota Bay the Gulf of Mexico, and the Ringling Bridge
• Concrete and block masonry
• High quality hurricane safety glass throughout
• First floor master suite
• Large second floor family room and dry bar, perfect for guests
• Yoga room or art studio
• Dramatic 2-story great room
• Custom steel floating staircase
• 10’ tall glass sliding doors
• 8’ solid interior doors with Emtek hardware
• Large designer format 24x48 porcelain tile
• European hardwood floors on the second floor
• Designer quartzite stone countertops in the kitchen
• Cucine Ricci custom fabricated Italian cabinets throughout
• Designer Hansgrohe plumbing fixtures
• Thermador commercial appliance package
• Custom Lutron lighting package by Wicked Smart Homes
• AV package including home security, shade prewire, and security cameras
• Summer kitchen with stainless steel appliances
• Tim Borden tropical landscape package with shellstone exteriors
• Gorgeous pool, with waterfall feature and built-in spa
Seaward Homes would love to talk to you about building your Dream Home. 941.323.0033
Sarasota’s
FRIDAY, FEB. 7
8:09 a.m., 3000 block of North Links Avenue
Family disturbance: Upon arriving at the scene of a dispute between a mother and daughter, another officer was already speaking with the daughter, who stated her mother had taken her phone from her and broken it as a form of punishment. She also accused her mother of using physical force against her in the process of taking the phone.
The second responding officer then made contact with the mother, who advised that her daughter was in trouble at school for her defiant behavior and, prior to going to work the night before, she took her daughter’s phone. She said she had it with her the entire night and, after returning home at 7:30 the morning of the incident, discovered it missing from her purse.
That’s when the confrontation with her daughter occurred and admitted to taking the phone and destroying it as she watched.
As for the accusation of physical force, the daughter showed no injuries present. As the investigation concluded, the two agreed the daughter would stay with her aunt until cooler heads could prevail.
SATURDAY, FEB. 8
ROOMMATE REMOVAL RUCKUS
7:30 p.m., 1400 block of 18th Street
Disturbance: Officers made contact with three men in the driveway of a residence in responding to a call about a disturbance between roommates. They advised a fourth roommate, also an adult male, had made self-harming statements, locked himself in his bedroom and was possibly armed with a knife.
The officers managed to coax the man out of his room to the front porch, where he was patted down but no knife was found. It was learned he was the one who called law enforcement, saying he was threatened with a kitchen knife by one of the other three and told to go back to his room “because he didn’t like the color of his skin.” That’s when he called 911.
To get to the bottom of the matter, an officer spoke by phone with the landlord who mentioned the com-
SATURDAY, FEB. 8
THIRD-RATE ROMANCE, HIGH-RENT RENDEZVOUS?
10:56 p.m., 1300 block of Main Street
Dispute: Officers were dispatched to a downtown restaurant after a call by a staff member who was concerned about the safety of a female customer. Upon arriving, an officer reported observing a woman wearing a black baseball cap, which appeared to be an effort to conceal a black eye resulting from a prior incident. Refusing to provide information, she stated she was fine and did not understand why law enforcement was present.
The woman mentioned that the man she was with at the restaurant was withholding her phone, which was located in their hotel room, adding that she had just met him on a “date” earlier that night. Why a hotel, one not noted for inexpensive hourly rates, was involved on a first date was not noted. She said she suffered the black eye by slipping in the hotel room’s bathtub.
The officer then spoke with her male companion, who claimed he was only friends with the woman — who never provided her identity — and that he knew nothing about her black eye. At that point, he became “disgruntled” with the officers, according to the incident report, was uncooperative and refused to provide further information. He also appeared, the report, notes, to be intoxicated.
With the lack of mutual cooperation and no helpful evidence to explore, no further action was taken. Why, and for that matter how, the woman’s phone was being withheld by the man in the hotel room was not disclosed.
plainant — the one who claimed he was threatened — is being evicted in six days and has been acting out as a result. All parties involved agreed to cohabitate for the remainder of the evening and there would be no further issues.
SPORTS
FAST BREAK
There was no love lost in a 2-1 win for Riverview High baseball over Sarasota in 13 innings on Feb. 14. The game was decided by errors as no runs were earned. Rams pitchers Morgan Peggs Gaelen Simonson and Mason Peluso allowed nine hits and six walks over 13 innings of one-run baseball.
... Sarasota High is the last Sarasota area boys basketball team left standing. The secondseed Sailors defeated fifthseeded Plant City 81-66 on Feb. 17 to advance to the 7A Region 3 championship game against top-seed Oscoela on Feb. 20.
... Four Sarasota area girls weightlifters earned medals at the state championships this past weekend at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland. Zoe Kirby of Cardinal Mooney led the way with a second-place finish in the 199-pound weight class for Class 1A Olympic and an eighthplace finish in 1A Traditional. Other area lifters who stood on the podium were Lila Dickey (Booker), Shelly Dilorenzo (Cardinal Mooney) and Elizabeth Lawson (Sarasota).
... Riverview alum Susan Lowther kicked off her collegiate lacrosse career at Clemson with a goal in her first match, a 20-12 win against Vanderbilt on Feb. 12.
... Sarasota alum Cheyenne Stubbs kept up her strong senior season with Utah State women’s basketball this past week with 17 points against Colorado State (Feb. 12) and 20 points against San Diego State (Feb. 15).
... Former Riverview pitcher Karson Ligon, now a senior with Mississippi State, made his season debut Feb. 14. He allowed one earned run on four hits and no walks with eight strikeouts over four innings in a 17-3 win against Manhattan.
... Quote of the Week: “Ever since I was young, I’ve always wanted to come here and be a part of this Sarasota High team and turn it into a winning program,” senior forward Harris Hawke said. “Being a part of that has meant everything to me.”
“It all came together that game, and we played great against a good team and we won. That was meaningful.”
Get to know Sarasota’s TOP PREP BASEBALL PLAYERS
Don’t miss these diamonds in the rough in 2025.
VINNIE PORTELL STAFF WRITER
The dawn of a new baseball season brings a refreshed sense of hope for what’s coming.
That’s typically how most MLB fans feel during Spring Training, and it’s no different for Sarasotaarea preps players either.
To prepare area fans for the season, which is a couple of games in, here are the Sarasota-area prep players to watch this season:
CESAR GARMENDIA | SARASOTA
Cesar Garmendia, a 6-foot-4, 220-pound junior right-hander, said he had to fight through an injury to his rotator cuff last season, but has learned how to better take care of his arm because of it.
He said he’s careful now to complete his pre-throw and post-throw routines every day, and spent much of the offseason lifting weights.
The result is a fastball that’s been pumped up from 82 mph to 88 mph, he said, which he uses to set up his changeup, curveball and slider.
“It feels like home when I’m out there on the mound,” Garmendia said. “I feel like myself and I just love it. I’m throwing harder and I’ve added some new pitches thanks to coach (Allen Morlock).”
BRAEDON MACKAY | SARASOTA
A third-baseman and pitcher, the 6-foot-4, 185-pound Braedon Mackay is back with Sarasota after debuting as a freshman last year.
He worked on adding strength to his legs this past offseason and said his power hitting is his best attribute.
On the mound he throws a mid-80s fastball, curveball and changeup.
“We definitely have to get back on track,” he said. “If you look at the wall here, there’s so many accomplishments. It just makes you want it more.”
ANDREW RHYMESTINE | RIVERVIEW
A 5-foot-7, 180-pound senior catcher, Andrew Rhymestine hit just .234 last season, but had a .479 on-base percentage thanks to 30 walks.
Those numbers could creep even higher this season after Rhymestine spent his offseason bettering his mental approach at the plate.
“I feel like I’ve gotten a lot better with my ability to swing at the plate,” he said. “I’ve installed some more self-confidence in myself, and it’s been nice. I read a few books, like The Inner Game of Tennis, a sports psychology book.”
MORGAN PEGGS | RIVERVIEW
A 6-foot-2, 190-pound senior right-handed pitcher, Morgan Peggs prides himself on getting batters out via weak contact using a mid-80s fastball, curveball and a splitter.
That’s something that took some time for him to learn to lean into.
Last year, Peggs was Riverview’s workhorse with a 4-3 record, a 1.454 ERA, a 1.11 WHIP and 44 strikeouts over 43 1/3 innings.
“My sophomore year I was kinda getting a lot of hits off me in the beginning of the season, and then I had a three-pitch inning one game, and after that, I think my confidence boosted up and I started focusing on just letting the defense make plays,” he said. “I don’t have to strike everyone out.”
CAIDEN CABRAL | RIVERVIEW
A 5-foot-7, 155-pound junior second baseman, Caiden Cabral hit .309 as a freshman two seasons ago, but said he got too greedy at the plate after hitting his first home run last season.
That caused a batting-average dip to .259, but was backed up with a .375 onbase percentage and a team-high 20 RBIs. This season, Cabral is focused on getting back to a contact-first approach.
“I’ve been in the cage trying to work more on going the other way instead of trying to be too big,” he said. “I know I have power, but when you get too big you start rolling over on it and get out of your feel. It’s not going to be a home run every time.”
WYATT HOSSENLOPP | CARDINAL MOONEY
He’ll be counted on to pitch this season, and is coming off a strong sophomore season in which he had a 1.28 ERA and a 1.17 WHIP with just five walks in 27 1/3 innings.
Hossenlopp worked out with the football team this past fall and at The Sports Farm in Lakewood Ranch to add strength. This year he anticipates better production at the plate after hitting .244 with 15 runs and 15 RBIs last year.
“Hitting wise, I’ve changed up my stance by being more athletic with my stance,” he said. “It’s helped me see the ball better and lock in when it gets to two strikes.”
JOHN BADALA | CARDINAL MOONEY
A 5-foot-10, 175-pound junior right-fielder, John Badala prides himself on his power at the plate, but has learned that he doesn’t have to try to mash every ball that comes his way.
Badala hit .246 last season (.358 onbase percentage) with 14 runs and 12 RBIs. He’s looking to improve his contact this season, which he said he’s worked on this offseason.
“Now I’ve been spraying balls everywhere to the left side and the right side,” he said.
JAKE ARMSTRONG | CARDINAL MOONEY
A 6-foot-2, 200-pound junior shortstop, third baseman and pitcher, Jake Armstrong is expected to be a key player for the Cougars this season.
He’s a power pitcher who said he can throw his four-seam fastball up to 93 mph to go along with a slider, sinker and a split change.
Armstrong hit .269 last season (.370 on-base percentage) with 11 runs, 17 RBIs and eight stolen bases. He pitched just 10 2/3 innings last year, but struck out 14 batters.
“I’ve worked on keeping my head level when I’m on the mound when something isn’t going my way and getting over that,” he said. “When you have good chemistry like this team, it helps. Everyone has your back.”
DAMEER WATFORD | BOOKER
The 5-foot-10, 186-pound first baseman and pitcher said he loves to hit and has been looking forward to playing varsity baseball for several years.
On the mound he throws a low-80s fastball, sinker and slider and is poised to be one of the Tornadoes’ top starting pitchers.
“I’ve been working on my timing,” he said. During the summer playing with my travel team, my timing was a little messed up in some tournaments, so I’ve worked on having consistent timing and getting consistent barrels.”
ZAKORI EDMONDS | BOOKER
Zakori Edmonds was one of Booker’s top hitters last season, and the 5-foot11, 160-pound senior centerfielder and pitcher is primed to play a key role on a young team.
Edmonds dislocated his hip toward the end of his sophomore season, but bounced back from it this past year.
On the mound he throws a fastball, knuckle curve and a slider.
“I like our energy,” he said. “We’re going to build together.”
— Johnny Lackaff, sophomore, Sarasota High boys basketball SEE PAGE 23A
Vinnie Portell
Sarasota High sophomore Braedon Mackay dials in as Morgan Peggs, Riverview senior, goes into his windup in a county rivalry game on Feb. 14.
Sarasota’s Cesar Garmendia delivers a pitch against Riverview in a county rivalry game on Feb. 14 at Sarasota High School.
Photos by Vinnie Portell
Sarasota basketball coach has Sailors among state’s best
How do you fix a directionless basketball program with a long history of losing?
You hire the coach who beat you every time he faced you.
BJ Ivey knew he had his work cut out for him when he accepted the position of head coach of the Sarasota High boys basketball team ahead of the 2022-23 season.
A former Riverview High boys basketball player and coach, Ivey’s Rams routinely routed the Sailors year after year as they dominated Sarasota-area basketball.
Now, Ivey has Sarasota (27-2) one win away from advancing to the state semifinals for the first time since 1968.
“I would say that it’s very affirming that the process works,” Ivey said. “I always looked at it like we had a lot of success at Riverview. It was something like 37 wins in a row over Sarasota, something silly. So I thought to myself, ‘Well, OK, if you can turn this around, then obviously what you believe in and what you preach on a daily basis truly works.’”
It’s hard to argue the Sailors have ever played a better stretch of basketball than they have the past three years under Ivey, and likely would have never happened if not for the COVID-19 pandemic.
A BLESSING IN DISGUISE
Ivey parlayed his success at Riverview — a 173-53 record and six district championships over 10 years — into becoming the director of basketball operations with Florida Gulf Coast University in June 2019.
However, when the pandemic shut down the final few months of the 2019-20 season, Ivey was faced with a suddenly uncertain future.
“They started furloughing people and salaries were reduced,” Ivey said. “The guy below me had his spot terminated. They canceled all the camps and everything that summer. I have a wife and two kids.
I needed to have a full-time job.”
Ivey made his return to high school basketball at The Out-ofDoor Academy and compiled a 12-26 record in two seasons before joining the Sailors.
Sarasota went 5-20 in the 202122 season prior to Ivey’s arrival and hadn’t had a winning season in eight years.
Those losing ways changed in Year 1 of the Ivey Era as Sarasota went 21-6.
That immediate turnaround was no accident, and it required buy-in from Sailors players who weren’t used to being held accountable.
“He always tells us, ‘Winning isn’t easy, and it’s not for everyone,’ so we had to adjust to that,” said senior forward Harris Hawke, who added that even showing up a couple of minutes late to practice has meant extra running and push-ups. “The original group my sophomore year, the first year coach (Ivey was here), hadn’t been used to anything like that.”
Ivey brought a winning mentality and culture with him to Sarasota, and with that also came the addition of talented players and diehard assistant coaches.
FOLLOWING IVEY’S LEAD
Brian Drechsler played for the Sarasota boys basketball team from 1998-2002 during a time when the Sailors “weren’t very good” and said the difference in the culture is night and day.
The former Sailor said he joined the dark side when he joined the Riverview coaching staff when Ivey was hired as the Rams head coach in 2009.
Drechsler’s coaching career likely would have ended when Ivey left Riverview for FGCU, he said, but Ivey’s return to the high school basketball scene was too hard to resist.
“We’ve never had this kind of success, so it’s really changed the culture of what people believe
about Sarasota High,” Drechsler said. “It used to be, well, if you can’t play at Riverview or somewhere else, you come to Sarasota. Now, it’s the opposite. If you’re the best player, you want to come to Sarasota because you want to be coached by the best.”
Drechsler has been by Ivey’s side through his entire high school boys basketball career, but he’s far from the only person to join a program because of him.
Oliver Boyle spent his freshman year at Riverview, but jumped at the chance to transfer to Sarasota when he heard that Ivey had been hired.
Now a senior, Boyle isn’t someone who has shied away from putting in extra work. He said he shows up to the gym before school every day at 6 a.m., and Ivey has always been there to open the doors.
“You can see how much he loves the game and the hard work he puts into this,” Boyle said. “I’ve never met someone with his level of work ethic. He’s willing to give up his time to other players and willing to get extra workouts in with players so they can be the best version of themselves. He’s very selfless.”
WHAT LIES AHEAD
Ivey has turned the Sailors from a perennial bottom-feeder into a
team that has gone 51-5 over the past two seasons.
His players credit that success to the relationships they’ve built.
The team has done team-building exercises together, shared meals and had some fun, like going out to Pop Stroke.
One of the most impactful ways they’ve grown closer happened earlier this season.
“We’ll just go around and we start to get really honest with each other,” Boyle said. “We sat down in a circle earlier this year and we told each other how much the season meant to us. How much what’s happened in the past meant to us and how important it was for us to meet our goals and live up to our standards.
“A lot of this has just been getting vulnerable. The more vulnerable you are, the easier you are to trust.”
The Sailors will have to lean on the relationships they’ve built with each other in the coming days — and possibly weeks.
Sarasota (ranked No. 32 overall in Florida) will continue its playoff push with a trip to Kissimmee Osceola to face the top-seeded Kowboys (25-3), who are ranked No. 20 overall in the state by the Florida High School Athletic Association. Win that game, and Sarasota would be two wins away from capturing the first state championship in program history.
“I grew up in this area,” Ivey said. “I feel like it’s a special place, a special school district, and it’s just a blessing to have an opportunity to pour into these kids.”
Vinnie Portell
BJ Ivey’s players said the relationships he’s built with them have made it easy to buy in to his instruction.
Vinnie Portell is the sports reporter for the Sarasota/Siesta Key Observer. Contact him at VPortell@ YourObserver.com.
Johnny Lackaff
The Sarasota High boys basketball team has been on a tear lately as it’s advanced to the Class 7A-Region 3 championship, and sophomore Johnny Lackaff has been at the heart of that surge.
Lackaff scored 30 points on 10-of15 shooting in a regional quarterfinal win over Poinciana on Feb. 12 and scored 35 points in a regional semifinal win over Plant City on Feb. 17.
Lackaff also plays for the baseball team, which he will join after the basketball team finishes its postseason run.
When and why did you start playing basketball?
Probably when I was 5, 6 or 7. I started playing because my dad played. He played in high school. I started basketball and baseball because he played those sports in college at Miami of Ohio.
What would you say has been the most memorable moment this season?
I’d say for sure the district championship this year. It shows all the work we’ve done since the summer. It all came together that game and we played great against a good team and we won. That was meaningful. I spent some time with my family and the team that night, and it was awesome.
What’s your favorite all-time basketball memory?
This year we played IMG National. I used to go there and my dad works there. I’ve grown up going to camps at IMG and I actually went to school there for one year in eighth grade.
They’re a top team in the country and I played really well. I think I scored 20 points against them.
What’s gone right for Sarasota this year?
We’ve blended so well together this year. We love playing with each other. All of our guys enjoy the competition and enjoy every day at practice.
If you would like to make a recommendation for the Sarasota Observer’s Athlete of the Week feature, send it to Vinnie Portell at VPortell@ YourObserver.com.
What’s your favorite meal?
The noodles and orange chicken from Panda Express.
What’s your favorite TV show or movie?
“The Last Dance.” I’ve watched that a couple of times and it’s something I really like.
What’s your go-to warm-up songs?
It’s different. A lot of people like rap or other stuff, but I listen to country before I warm up. I put my headphones on and country is my go-to. I like Morgan Wallen. I like Riley Green. It keeps me calm and centered before a game so I don’t get too in my head.
What’s been your most humbling moment in basketball?
Some people see me and say, ‘I don’t know if that’s a basketball player.’ I’m not crazy tall. I’m not crazy athletic. When I go to some of these tournaments in travel ball, I’m not the best player and I’m not the most athletic. Seeing that kind of let me down a little, but I enjoy the competition and I push through it.
What does your ideal weekend look like?
Friday, go home and chill. If I have homework, get that done. Saturday, hang out with friends. Go to the beach, have some fun, watch any late night hoops. Sunday, go to church and chill with the family.
ATHLETE
LUXURY REAL ESTATE DEFINED
Time to Ski-daddle
The Ski-A-Rees team braved rough conditions to offer its first performance since the hurricanes.
IAN SWABY STAFF WRITER
Crested waves were visible as the Sarasota Ski-A-Rees Water Show Team headed into Sarasota Bay on Feb. 16.
Although the team didn’t find ideal conditions, it still found a sense of fun as team members performed sig nature waterskiing moves, including jumps and their pyramid formation.
Yet something had, in fact, been hindering the ski shows prior to that day: the destruction wrought by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
A City Island site that was a little rougher around the edges indicated some of the dam age, as a crowd of attendees still turned out and filled the bleachers.
“Everyone’s out here for fun,” said Ella. “They love seeing the falls as much as they love seeing something work because it’s super entertaining, so I don’t feel like anyone feels like a lot of pressure to be perfect.”
ROUGH WATERS
All members of the organization, a 501(c)3 nonprofit that teaches water skiing and water safety to people of all ages, are involved in a volunteer capacity.
That means members could only turn out on weekends to work on repairs.
“I think a lot of people would have questioned whether or not we’d be doing any shows at all this season, so it’s pretty cool that we’re at this
threshold, this milestone, I guess,” said Brian Robbins, a member for nearly 40 years.
Hurricane Helene brought mainly water and storm surge-related damage to the property, while Milton exacerbated the issues with wind damage and fallen trees.
by
bor’s property, the stage being lifted over the deck and a section of the concrete walkway being hollowed out.
IF YOU GO
SARASOTA SKI-A-REES
WATER SHOW TEAM
Where: 1602 Ken Thompson
Parkway When: Shows will continue through the spring each Sunday at 2 p.m., with the last show held on Sunday, May 11. Visit: SkiARees.com.
people that have been ... ski pros at some point, so there’s a lot of great teachers that you can learn anything from.”
Abby Duplissey, 19, has been skiing with the organization for 10 years, and was eager to be back in the water.
being lifted
When Milton came, numerous Australian pines fell, resulting in the ski shed and costume shed having to be reenclosed and the costumes collected from the surrounding area.
“All of our trees had yellow insulation just covering them from all of the destruction,” said Lance Robbins, Brian Robbins’ brother. “There were just hanging limbs and everything everywhere.”
Yet, amid the repairs needed to community members’ homes, there was still help to be found.
One Ski-A-Rees member who is a site work contractor helped with replenishing sand, while another brought friends from the outrigger canoe rowing at Nathan Benderson Park on multiple occasions.
Loss of the ability to perform was financially taxing, members said, since shows are the organization’s main source of revenue.
Walker, a senior in high school, said because of the damage, she missed out on the season for which she’d been hoping.
“I’m going to college, so I won’t be back all the time, so this is one of my last seasons that I could really be here, and I kind of lost that,” she said.
Having been skiing for about 14 years and involved with the organization for 10, she’s found a supportive environment with the SkiA-Rees.
“It’s a family; it’s just a secondary family,” she said. “It really is. I’ve been out here since I was 10, so as much as I’ve seen other people grow up, they’ve all gotten to see me grow up as well, so we all spend every weekend together, at least, and have for the past decade.”
President Brad Satterlee, meanwhile, was ready for the Ski-A-Rees to return to its mission.
“We’re not here to clean up and fix things,” he said. “We’re here to ski and put on shows for Sarasota. It’s great to be back here and doing shows, so we’re excited to be back on the water and hope everyone comes out and sees us.”
MUSCLE MEMORY
Although members of the ski team had little chance for practice recently, they nonetheless were confident as they prepared to enter the water.
Following the show, skier Andrew Hawblitzel said it was a good day despite the conditions, still calling the weather “beautiful.”
“Everything becomes muscle memory, like riding a bike, so the longer you do it, the more you just know you’re going to go out there and do what you know,” he said.
He also said the weather wasn’t a hindrance to having fun.
“Unpredictable weather leads to the best practice, ultimately, so it was a fun time,” he said. “A big crowd came out to support for the first show back, so can’t ask for much more than that.”
“There’s a lot of past
“There’s a great support team out here,” she said.
Ella Walker, 17, is pulled through the water.
Lance and Brian Robbins make a jump from the ramp.
Russ Robbins and his son, Brian Robbins, as well as his son, Lance Robbins, are longtime members of the Ski-A-Rees.
Brian Robbins skis with his daughter, Quinn Robbins, 5.
Photos
Ian Swaby
WETZIG
Cell. 614-260-0038 angela.wetzig@premiersir.com
A local climate of resilience
The Climate Adaptation Center honored four individuals and their contributions to the community’s climate resilience.
IAN SWABY STAFF WRITER
Over the next 50 years or so, climate adaptation will be the best strategy for overcoming the impacts of climate change, said Bob Bunting, founder and CEO of the Climate Adaptation Center.
“Even if we didn’t put another ounce of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, starting today, the climate would take decades to stabilize, and for that reason, in the short term, the only thing we really have that we can do is climate adaptation,” he said.
The center’s Climate Champions Awards, held Feb. 12 at Michael’s
Beautiful AND Durable Exterior Door Hardware
On East, celebrated four individuals nominated by Sarasota’s community for their efforts in climate resilience. This year’s honorees were David Kotok, co-founder of Cumberland Advisors and a founding member of
Both
Smitty’s Architectural Hardware, located The Plumbing Place, displays many lines of door hardware in beautiful styles for your home that are well suited for our demanding environment, and will create the first impression your front door deserves.
Beautifully
accessories from leading designers. Masterpieces of
and style showcased in an astounding showroom.
A.G. Lafley speaks during a State of the Park address at The Bay.
Ian Swaby
Bob Bunting, Tracie Troxler, Karen Holbrook, A.G. Lafley, David Kotok and Elizabeth Moore
the CAC; Karen Holbrook, former regional chancellor of the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee; A.G. Lafley, founding CEO of The Bay Park Conservancy; and Tracie Troxler, founder and executive director of Sunshine Community Compost.
According to Elizabeth Moore, the CAC’s founding director, the organization, now in its fifth year, is the only Florida-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to climate and its regional impacts.
A COMMUNITY EFFORT
Nominees spanned a range of fields within the community.
According to the CAC’s website, Kotok is responsible for initiatives from “catalyzing CAC’s growth and shaping its conferences to advancing climate finance and fostering international collaborations addressing the impacts of climate warming.”
In a video played at the event, Kotok said climate impacts all elements of economics and finance, calling adaptation “probably, other than maybe war... the largest single strategic economic financial shock in the history of all the people that are walking around on the planet now.”
“The climate adaptation center five years ago was a little idea, a germ of an idea,” he told attendees. “A couple of well-meaning people said, ‘You know what? He’s on to something.’ And I believe in trying to help those ventures.”
Holbrook, who retired in December, is credited by the center’s website with hosting all CAC conferences, fostering faculty collaboration, advancing sustainability efforts through the college’s Patel School of Global Sustainability, and envisioning a future STEM center that will deepen partnerships with the CAC.
“We are so proud at the University of South Florida that our programs, Bob’s programs, are on our campus...” Holbrook said, stating the university was providing not only for the CAC, but also the community, and noting the ability of students to become involved in the CAC through programming.
Lafley said when the park, which opened in 2022, was built, its shoreline was converted from a “crumbling seawall to an all-native, all natural, resilient shoreline,” while its team did everything it could to create resilience and treat stormwater with “a whole range of systems.”
“The key thing about today’s recognition is that it’s a team rec-
IF YOU GO 2025 HURRICANE SEASON FORECAST DAY When: 8:30 a.m. to noon on Tuesday, April 1
Where: USF Sarasota-Manatee Campus, 8350 N Tamiami Trail.
Cost: General admission is $49.
Information: To purchase tickets, visit TheClimateAdapatationCenter.
org.
Over the past two years combined, the Climate Adaptation Center’s forecast was the most accurate in the world, out of about 12 different organizations’ forecasts, said Bob Bunting, the center’s founder and CEO.
“We’re very proud of that, and the people of the Suncoast can count on the CAC to keep them safe no matter what happens this year,” he said.
ognition, not just for The Bay Park Conservancy team, but just as importantly, for the 100-plus external, extended team of partners, resources, stakeholders and supporters,” Lafley said.
Troxler was honored for her efforts to educate and inspire the public in the area of composting, the process of setting aside plant and food waste and allowing it to decompose into nutrient-rich material that can be used as fertilizer.
“When I look back here, in 2016 I started to tell people that I wanted to start collecting food scraps and I wanted to turn it into compost, people looked at me like I was crazy...” she said. “I know we still have a long ways to go, but the fact that the community efforts happening in Sarasota are being recognized here today is a most important milestone.”
Bunting said he hopes the result of the awards will be “to inspire others to follow in their paths, to see that adaptation is not a cost, it’s an investment in our future, in our immediate future.”
He told attendees that the organization’s goal is to “make Sarasota the model coastal city for climate adaptation, and a living laboratory for it.”
“We have the talent, the money and the need in ways few communities do,” he said.
Zakylee Elliott, 2, Zynylah Elliott, 3, Nikolas Cotirla, 5, Ava Colindres, 8, and Nikolas Cotirla, 5, learn about composting with Sunshine Community Compost, during an Earth Day event at The Bay.
Some were dressed in leather jackets, and some in shorts and T-shirts, on Feb. 15.
“We want it to be an event for everyone, not just if you ride a motorcycle, but the whole community,” said Lucy Nicandri, executive director of Suncoast Charities for Children, about Thunder by The Bay Music & Motorcycle Festival.
Held on Feb. 14-16 at the Sarasota Fairgrounds, the festival’s activities included motorcycle stunts, wrestling matches, and bands Blue Oyster Cult, Grand Funk Railroad and Creed Fisher headlined the event. Sarasota’s Tammy Fieber, who has been riding for over 20 years, finds a sense of community in the experience.
“They come from all walks, and people that come from all over the United States come here,” she said.
Nicandri said the festival, now in its 27th year, has raised close to $3 million since it began, with sponsorship higher than last year, despite impacts of the hurricanes. Its profits are allocated through the organizations to the seven nonprofits it funds that serve children and adults with special needs.
— IAN SWABY
Terry Schambers performs with Johnny Diamond.
Photos by Ian Swaby
Sarasota’s Joaquin Torres and Tyler Burke, akaTurbo Tyler, took to the Globe of Death.
Kim Williams and Paulette Graf
Cardio dance: Healthy heart, healthy mind!
A cardio workout promotes heart health but also creates a disciplined routine that helps improve memory.
February is Heart Month, and I’ll take any excuse to promote heart-healthy exercise. And now there’s proof that this activity also works out your brain.
I became interested in cardio dance and memory several years ago when my older students began to tell me that their memories seemed to improve after they took my class.
I was teaching mostly cardio dance in those days. I started with
simple steps and built up to a pretty complex routine.
There has to be a connection, I thought, between the physical movement, making your brain learn this routine, and improved memory.
I’m no scientist, but I was curious. So, I started to break it down. What I was having people do is learn short phrases of movement and then link them together. The cardio dance routine required them to move forward and back, side to side, remember specific steps, sometimes while using fitness equipment, and stay in rhythm.
This was a real challenge for many of my students who had never done anything like this before. As they got more proficient, the class became a social gathering because of this shared experience.
My students felt energized afterward, not exhausted. They
A cardio dance routine requires students to move forward and back, side to side and remember specific steps, which helps improve memory.
told me that besides getting a good body workout, they were getting a memory workout as well. They said they could actually remember things better.
I wondered if there was science to support our anecdotal experience.
I contacted a couple of local Alzheimer’s specialists and they told me — you’re probably right, but there weren’t any specific studies on this yet.
Fast forward to today and there is now a large body of research that supports a link between heart health and brain health, as well as between learning a dance routine and cognitive health.
Studies reveal that people with heart disease have a greater chance of developing cognitive issues.
Vascular memory loss has been linked to heart disease and cardio fitness is a major factor in preventing and managing that issue.
Aerobic exercise increases the amount of oxygen supplied to the brain, improving mental function. Cardio fitness has been shown to reduce loss of brain cells in older adults. But cardio fitness is just part of the equation.
Research also shows that learning and performing those dance steps further maintains cognitive sharpness
A Harvard study finds that certain types of dance, particularly with routines to learn and remember, helps prevent ageonset memory loss and diseases like Alzheimer’s.
So, ACTIVITY is the active word, not just dance, everything. The data is in. People living a healthy lifestyle are less likely to develop heart disease or dementia. It says: Be physically active, mentally active and socially active, preferably all at once. Taking a Cardio Dance class
or getting together with friends to do a Cardio Dance video or go out line dancing is a good place to start. I’m not shy about letting my students know how important activity can be.
To this day, when I start my cardio dance class I say, “It’s time to work out our hearts and minds!”
Mirabai Holland is CEO of NuVue LLC, a Health Education Company. She is a certified health coach, exercise physiologist and wellness consultant for Manatee County government employees and has a consulting and private coaching practice. Her wellness programs are implemented in hospitals, fitness facilities, resorts, and corporations worldwide. She is also an artist who believes creativity enhances health. Visit MirabaiHolland.com Contact at AskMirabai@MovingFree.com.
22,
MIRABAI HOLLAND
Love stands strong in the sand
Twenty-two years ago, Marcie and David Moran were married in Rosemary Beach.
However, after moving to Sarasota in June, they found the next step of their life together, on another beach.
“We just moved here, so it was important to do it,” said Marcie Moran.
They were one of the many couples to renew their wedding vows during sunset on Siesta Key Beach at the Say “I Do” Again ceremony, held Feb. 14.
The event, which has been held by Sarasota County for more than 35 years, featured refreshments, music, photo opportunities and a nondenominational ceremony led by Judge Stephen Walker of the 12th Judicial Circuit Court of Florida.
Another couple drawn to the event were Michael and Shirly Evans, of Toronto, Canada, who formerly rented property in Siesta Key and now do so in Fort Myers.
They decided to return to the event, with Michael Evans calling Siesta Key Beach “one of the nicest beaches.” —
IAN SWABY
Photos by Ian Swaby
The nondenominational ceremony was led by Judge Stephen Walker of the 12th Judicial Circuit Court of Florida.
Michael and Shirly Evans, of Toronto, have their photo taken by Jennifer Lampl, of Sarasota County. The couple formerly rented in Siesta Key and enjoy visiting Siesta Key Beach to renew their vows. They have been married 44 years.
rendering
Russ and Carol Hoffman, of Osprey, renew their vows. They have been married 33 years and have been coming to the ceremony almost ever year since 1999.
Jack and Veronique Carpenter have been married for 12 years.
Fred and Laurie Rosen, of Palmer Ranch, have been married 33 years.
• Glaucoma Management & Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Procedures
• Micro-Incision Cataract Surgery
• Routine Eye Care
His patient-centric approach ensures personalized treatment plans that cater to your unique eye health needs.
Whether you’re seeking preventative care or battling an eye condition, Dr. Kansara’s expertise and compassionate care can guide you towards improved vision and a healthier lifestyle. He is dedicated to staying at the forefront of ophthalmic advancements, offering the latest treatments and technologies to deliver the best possible outcomes for his patients.
Don’t miss this opportunity to receive compassionate and personalized eye care.
Kansara looks forward to helping you see
PET PICS
Have photos of your four-legged family members? We want to see them! Share them at YourObserver.com/Contests/Pet-Pics to be published online and for a chance to see them in print!
THE GOOD LIFE: Sebastian Provino is a puppy rescue from Dobie Ranch rescue in Crystal River, Florida, now living a happy and healthy life in Sarasota.
3 Non-Surgical Paths to Younger Skin
Plasma energy is quickly becoming a game - changer for those seeking to look younger without going under the knife. Offering everything from gentle facial rejuvenation to non-invasive alternatives for face, eye, and neck lifts, it’s a powerful solution for those who want to avoid injections, fillers, or plastic surgery altogether.
It’s important to note that Plexr® plasma energy has nothing to do with blood plasma. Instead, this innovative technique uses a controlled electrical current to activate nitrogen in the air, creating tiny sunburst-like energy pulses just above the skin. By applying this energy in different ways, we can tailor treatments to your specific needs and rejuvenate your skin effectively.
For those looking for a Hollywood secret, the “Rockstar Facial” is a favorite among stars and a great option for those in their 30s to 50s looking to refresh their complexion and combat collagen loss. This is the lightest technique, known as a “plasma shower.” It uses microscopic plasma energy to create tiny channels in the skin that stimulate collagen production, tighten the skin, and promote healthier, smoother texture. Plus, it helps absorb serums for enhanced results, all with zero downtime. It’s perfect for reducing fine lines, improving texture, and even managing acne!
If you’re struggling with crepey skin or sagging in areas like the eyelids, there’s a more targeted approach available. This treatment, called “Cat Resurfacing,” can address the entire face or focus on specific areas. With just a few days of social downtime, it resurfaces and tightens the skin, leaving you with smoother, firmer results.
Making future firefighters
The Sarasota County Fire Department held an open house for Station 8 at 840 Apex Road, part of a series of events held one Saturday of each month.
SDr. Sam at Warm Sands Wellness has a warm and caring bedside manner. He listens to concerns, answers all questions and really works to personalize treatment based on individual needs.
The Plasma Shower treatment was the perfect glow up and the aftercare was well defined and easy to follow.
- Jeanie D.
For those seeking more dramatic skin tightening without surgery, the strongest plasma technique may be the solution. It’s a non-surgical alternative to facelifts, eye lifts, and neck lifts, and it’s even effective for older patients. Often referred to as “Soft Surgery,” this treatment can tighten loose skin on the eyelids, jowls, and neck with results comparable to traditional surgery. It’s a fraction of the cost and downtime of surgery, providing powerful results like skin tightening, mole removal, and scar revision-all without a scalpel.
Plasma energy is a revolutionary way to maintain a youthful look with minimal downtime and much less risk than traditional surgery. It’s a safe, effective, and non-invasive way to enhance your appearance - no knives required.
Give us a call at (941)202-4051 to schedule a free, one-on-one consultation with Dr. Sam.
SCAN HERE To view the “Rockstar Facial” or “Plasma Shower” in action. Results are instant and cumulative.
arasota County Deputy Fire Chief Darin Wallentine called the open house event held on Feb. 15 a “very special” one, due to Station 8 on Apex Road being the department’s base of special operations.
The public could experience sights from tools for extrication from vehicles, to a demonstration of the department’s rappelling equipment.
Each month, the department’s free open house events offer families the chance to meet firefighters, explore fire equipment and receive free car seat safety inspections, bike helmet fittings and fire and swimming safety information.
They also feature community partners like SunCoast Blood Centers, with which the department just established a pre-hospital whole
IF YOU GO
The
blood transfusion program this past month.
“We take great pride in what we do here at Sarasota County Fire,” Wallentine said. “The professional nature of our firefighters, their willingness to continue to develop and train and learn, is very important to us, as a learning and a growing organization.”
He said something that was “very encouraging” was seeing kids climb into fire trucks and receive tours from firefighters.
“Maybe in the future, one of these kids will decide to become a firefighter, and they will tie it back to the visit that they had here today as the emphasis on why they chose to become a public servant and to serve the community as a firefighter,” he said.
IAN SWABY STAFF WRITER
Ian Swaby
Bradenton’s Brook Jackson, 5, daughter of Lt. Dennis Jackson, of Sarasota County, tries the fire hose with dad’s help.
IT’S READ EVERYWHERE
HUNGARY FOR PICKLES: Village Walk pickleball players Sandra Bernardi, Julie Powell, Teri Liuzzo, Jane Chodzin and Elena Dieseldorff took a copy of the Sarasota Observer to Budapest, Hungary.
Abraham Lincoln revisited as teacher of valuable leadership lessons
A New Jersey college professor and Abe Lincoln aficionado, at a Southwest Florida event, details why one of the most famous Americans ever is also an underappreciated leadership expert.
By Mark Gordon
It’s hard to overlook Abraham Lincoln.
For starters, the 16th U.S. president signed the Emancipation Proclamation on Jan. 1, 1863, ending slavery in the country. It’s also well known that Lincoln was physically hard to miss, standing six-foot-four, the tallest of the 46 U.S. presidents. And, of course, he was so celebrated for telling the truth that his famous nickname, Honest Abe, lives on 159 years after he was assassinated.
What is sometimes overlooked with Lincoln—despite the 16,000 books written about him—is the set of soft skills he learned, and then exhibited, about leadership throughout his life. This is the message Louis Masur, a Lincoln expert and Distinguished Professor of American Studies and History at Rutgers University in New Jersey, shared in Southwest Florida in 2024.
Masur was a keynote speaker for a Sanibel Captiva Trust Co. Speaker Series event. His talk, “Lessons of Abe Lincoln: How Effective Leadership Can Change the World,” was given at the Tribby Arts Center at Shell Point in Fort Myers. In a virtual interview, Masur remarked, Lincoln “saved the union and freed the slaves, but what made him such an incredible leader during such a divisive and partisan time?”
Masur, who has researched, taught, and spoken about other historical figures, says Lincoln remains his No. 1 educational and leadership muse. Masur has distilled Lincoln’s leadership into a few powerful lessons:
Education: Lincoln’s dedication to selfeducation was critical to his success. Despite his father’s disapproval of reading, Lincoln’s “love of learning” played a pivotal role in his ability to lead. When Lincoln became president in 1861, he had no formal military experience, except for volunteering in the Black Hawk War. To prepare, he read military strategy books from the Library of Congress, immersing himself in the details of military tactics.
Diplomacy: Masur points to Lincoln’s letter to General George Meade after the Battle of Gettysburg as an example of his restraint. Lincoln wrote a letter to express disappointment that Meade didn’t pursue Confederate General Robert E. Lee after the Union victory. However, Lincoln ultimately chose not to send the letter, recognizing that chastising his general would be counterproductive.
Empathy: Lincoln’s empathy and ability to step outside himself were hallmarks of his leadership. Masur tells a story of Lincoln writing a condolence letter to the daughter of a friend who had died in combat. In the letter, Lincoln wrote, “You are sure to be happy again,” sharing his own experience with grief. This ability to connect with others helped him lead with compassion.
Principle over power: Lincoln’s commitment to principles is another lesson Masur highlights. During the 1864 presidential election, Lincoln refused to postpone the vote, even though he risked losing. He believed that “We cannot have free government without elections.” This resolve to uphold democratic principles, even in times of war, defined his legacy.
Masur’s insights emphasize that Lincoln’s leadership was as much about character as it was about strategy. “I just never tire of reading about him and thinking about him,” Masur says.
Join us for an engaging speaker series featuring two of the nation’s leading historians. Dive deep into American history as our expert speakers bring the past to life with captivating stories and fresh perspectives.
Reprinted from the Business Observer
McClellan Park home tops sales at $2.95 million
ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR
Thomas and Jocelyn Maxfield, of United Kingdom, sold their home at 2004 S. Osprey Ave. to OSPREY2004 LLC for $2.95 million. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,598 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.47 million in 2019.
SARASOTA
AQUALANE ESTATES
Deutsche Bank National Trust
Co., trustee, sold the home at 1516 Ridgewood Lane to 1516 Ridgewood LN LLC for $2,115,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, fourand-a-half baths, a pool and 4,964 square feet of living area. It sold for $3.15 million in 2006.
HARBOR ACRES
Charles and Maureen LeClair sold their home at 1519 Harbor Drive to RJJM LLC or $1,551,000. Built in 1949, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,263 square feet of living area. It sold for $68,500 in 1979.
ONE WATERGATE
Mary Lou Tosques sold the Unit 16A condominium at 1111 N. Gulfstream Ave. to Roger and Linda Sciascia, of Sarasota, for $1.2 million. Built in 1974, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,577 square feet of living area. It sold for $500,000 in 2008.
PAYNE PARK VILLAGE
John Lee Laakso and Lissa Patricia Laakso, of Clearwater, sold their home at 305 Gowdy Road to Raul Elizalde and Alison Elizalde, trustees, of Sarasota, for $1.19 million. Built in 2022, it has three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths and 2,463 square feet of living area. It sold for $920,000 in 2022.
ESSEX HOUSE
Marybeth Dorothy Flynn, trustee, of Flagler Beach, sold the Unit 907 condominium at 707 S. Gulfstream Ave. to Joyce and David Kay, of Sarasota, for $999,000. Built in 1974, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,247 square feet of living area. It sold for $592,500 in 2016.
LAWRENCE POINTE
TCF Real Estate II LLC sold the Unit 203 condominium at 99 Sunset Drive to Timothy and Amy Schmidt, of Egg Harbor, Wisconsin, for $900,000. Built in 1978, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,528 square feet of living area. It sold for $155,000 in 1986.
THE VILLAS ON LAUREL
William and Jane Oskin sold their Unit 5 condominium at 1685 Laurel St. to Taylor Rosenfeld, trustee, of Cincinnati, for $812,500. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 1,694 square feet of living area. It sold for $440,000 in 2016.
RINGLING PARK
Gene and Donna Ciemny, of Sarasota, sold their home at 2589 Davis
Blvd. to Steven Robert Windsor and Christine Diane Windsor, of Sarasota, for $790,000. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,941 square feet of living area. It sold for $175,000 in 2017.
SOUTH SIDE PARK
Steven and Stacy Carlin, of Sarasota, sold their home at 2724 S. East Ave. to Kyle Weiss, of Sarasota, for $728,500. Built in 1957, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,308 square feet of living area. It sold for $200,000 in 2004.
SAPPHIRE SHORES
Albert Leach Jr. and James Merritt, of Orlando, sold their home at 5013 Bayshore Road to Bayshore Land Trustee LLC, trustee, for $675,000. Built in 1951, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,671 square feet of living area. It sold for $120,000 in 1985.
Brunks Addition to city of Sarasota Stefano Pegoraro, and Flavio Ruggeri and Rachele Casasola, of Sarasota, sold their home at 2757 Floyd St. to David and Edyta Papachimonas, of Sparta, New Jersey, for $660,000. Built in 1997, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,465 square feet of living area. It sold for $465,000 in 2023.
FLORENCE
Joanna Wyszynska-Mlotkowska and Mariusz Mlotkowski, of Sarasota, sold their home at 1809 Southwood St. to Paige Lowry and Robert Divenuti, of Essex Junction, Vermont, for $595,000. Built in 1955, it has two bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,140 square feet of living area. It sold for $285,000 in 2017.
THE LANDING CARRIAGEHOUSE
Eugenie Hindall, trustee, of Sarasota, sold the Unit 68 condominium at 5043 Kestral Park Drive to Brian Hirt, of Sarasota, for $550,000. Built in 1982, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,440 square feet of living area. It sold for $295,000 in 2014.
SOUTH GATE
James Stephen and Marion Coats, of Sarasota, sold their home at 2569 Wisteria St. to Warren and Tara Middleton, of Sarasota, for $511,000. Built in 1960, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,799 square feet of living area. It sold for $154,300 in 2001.
SIESTA KEY
SUMMER COVE ON SIESTA Millard Clyde Morgan Jr., trustee, and Morgan Millard Jr., of Bradenton, sold the Unit 701C condo at 1660 Summerhouse Lane to Lev Pukin, of Sarasota, for $1,825,000. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms and 2,490 square feet. It sold for $1.25 million in 2010.
SIESTA’S BAYSIDE
Jay and Jennifer Godfrey, of Highland, Michigan, sold their home at 868 Siesta Key Circle to Abrahim Roostaian and Jennifer Sisson, of Larkspur, California, for $1.7 million. Built in 1972, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,210 square feet. It sold for $1,135,000 in 2015.
Other top sales by area
SIESTA KEY: $2.2 MILLION
Sarasota Beach
Douglas Victor Wagner and Martha Jane Wagner, of Commerce Township, Michigan, sold their home at 452 Canal Road to Watson Indiana Properties LLC for $2.2 million. Built in 2008, it has five bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and 3,384 square feet of living area. It sold for $2 million in 2021.
PALMER RANCH: $1.46 MILLION
Esplanade on Palmer Ranch
Wayne and Donna Mink, of Simpsonville, Kentucky, sold their home at 5393 Salcano St. to Frank and Diane Cianciotto, of Sarasota, for $1.46 million. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,166 square feet of living area. It sold for $658,600 in 2019.
OSPREY: $1.85 MILLION
Oaks II Janice Klein-Breteler, trustee, of Sarasota, sold the home at 855 Mac Ewen Drive to Trisha Najork, of Newburgh, New York, for $1.85 million. Built in 2006, it has five bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 4,361 square feet of living area.
NOKOMIS: $500,000
Sorrento East HPA Borrower 2016 ML LLC sold the home at 328 Monet Drive to Simon Beemsterboer, of Osprey, for $500,000. Built in 1973, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,477 square feet of living area. It sold for $297,500 in 2016.
Source: Sarasota County, city of Sarasota
Ian Swaby
The home at 2004 S. Osprey Ave. was built in 2014 and has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,598 square feet of
Navigating the complexities of The “Bainbridge Promise”
THE “BAINBRIDGE PROMISE”
That promise is backed up by action. From the beginning, JL Bainbridge has adhered to a feeonly model and a commitment to client satisfaction. “From day one, our founder, Jerry Bainbridge, promised that if a client is ever unhappy, we’ll return our fee - no questions asked,” says Leeming. Regardless of investment size, personalized service is assured. “Elsewhere, even if you have $1$2 million, you may end up with an 800 number,” says Leeming.
Medicare, estate, healthcare, and more,” he adds.
MULTIGENERATIONAL OVERSIGHT
JL Bainbridge’s commitment to long-term, multigenerational relationships is close to Leeming’s heart. “I’m working with the third generation in some families— grandparents, parents, and the 20- and 30-somethings together. That’s how you truly manage generational wealth,” says Leeming.
This approach allows meaningful client relationships and helps families build lasting legacies.
*Leeming shares a story of a longtime client, a tough business leader, who recently sought his help. “He told me he was starting to have some issues that were ‘scaring the hell out of him’ and he wanted me to get things organized for his family.”
IN PERPETUITY
“Here every client, even those with 250K, gets a dedicated portfolio manager and access to personalized planning for
JL Bainbridge is here to stay — a Sarasota-based, privately owned firm with a commitment to its clients and community. “We have a succession plan that ensures JL Bainbridge will continue in perpetuity,” says Leeming. “We’re not interested in selling. We own our building on Main Street and are dedicated to our clients and team members.”
YOUR CALENDAR
FRIDAY, FEB. 21
LIBRARY BABIES
10:15-11 a.m. at Gulf Gate Library, 7112 Curtiss Ave. Free. Babies are invited to enjoy stories, songs and rhymes, bounces, tickles and playtime with special toys, while parents meet other caregivers. Visit SCGovLibrary.LibraryMarket.com.
LITTLE KNOWN AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY
2-4 p.m. at Gulf Gate Library, 7112 Curtiss Ave. Free. Librarian Jyna Johnson shares her “informative, interesting and uncanny” discoveries in African American History. Johnson is a managing librarian and the programming coordinator for the Manatee Public Library System. Visit SCGovLibrary.LibraryMarket.com.
FRIDAY, FEB. 21 TO SATURDAY, FEB. 22
AMERICAN VINTAGE MARKETS
9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Robarts Arena, Sarasota Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd. Cost is $8; two for $12; four for $20; 16 and younger admitted free. Browse vintage items from vendors including pickers, makers, collectors, creators and artisans. Visit AmericanVintageMarkets.com.
SATURDAY, FEB. 22
SARASOTA COUNTY SCHOOLS
PRESENT NATIONAL HISTORY DAY
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Selby Library, 1331 First St. Free. Students showcase their history projects, which can include exhibits, documentaries, performances, websites and papers, with this year’s theme being Rights and Responsibilities in History. Approximately 800 students will participate in the contest, from which they can move on to the Florida History Day Contest and the national level of the competition. Visit SCGovLibrary. LibraryMarket.com.
SUNDAY, FEB. 23
SUNDAYS AT THE BAY
FEATURING CLOVER’S REVENGE
4:30-5:30 p.m. at The Oval, The Bay, 1055 Boulevard of the Arts. Free. Enjoy a free concert by Clover’s Revenge. Described as “a dangerous intersection of two Irish musical traditions,” the band fuses acoustic pub music and Celtic punk rock with simple instrumentation, taking inspiration from the Dubliners, Pogues,
BEST BET
SATURDAY, FEB. 22
SATCHEL’S FIFTH-ANNUAL GET YOUR MUTT MOVIN’ 5K RUN AND WALK 2025
8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Festival runs 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.) at Payne Park, 2010 Adams Lane. $45 to $110. Support Satchel’s Last Resort Animal Shelter with a 5K run or walk at Payne Park, on a new three-loop course. The run will be followed by a festival with offerings including canine agility courses, contests including a pet costume contest, a “pie eating” contest and Most Unique Pet. Bernie’s Brew Pub will supply free beer for all entrants. There will be a photo booth and more. Visit RunSignUp.com.
Silly Wizard and Flogging Molly. Visit TheBaySarasota.org.
TUESDAY, FEB. 25
SENSORY STORYTIME
11-11:30 a.m. at Selby Library, 1331 First St. Free. This storytime is geared toward children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, although all children are welcome. It features stories, songs and activities, followed by self-directed sensory playtime. This month’s theme is “bugs.” Visit SCGovLibrary.LibraryMarket.com.
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 26
READ WITH THE DOGS 4-5 p.m. at Gulf Gate Library, 7112 Curtiss Ave. Free. Children are invited to enjoy a furry friend as a reading companion, as they spend time with certified therapy animals. Visit SCGovLibrary.LibraryMarket. com.
Exceptional Sound Quality
From
Reduced Listening Fatigue
Many
Spheric Speech Clarity
This
Enhanced Connectivity
Market-leading
I recently purchased Phonak Sphere 70 hearing aids and I can hear much better. I'm super happy with these. I think anybody would be very happy with them. It's how hearing aids should really work. I highly recommend them. Thank you.
-Morris G., Patient
NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH
THURSDAY, FEB. 20 High: 67
FRIDAY, FEB. 21
SATURDAY, FEB. 22
High: 73 Low: 57
SUNDAY, FEB. 23
TGIU
JFMCAUVO Z NZD FE DWU XZHB ZES AZJ, ‘DWZD YZA HFFV. DWZD PZSU PU OUUV TFFS.’” AUXZADGZE ADZE
