2025 at 10:11 AM EDTEmail This LinkShare on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInSARASOTA (WWSB) - The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office issued a warrant in a deadly shooting that happened last week in Sarasota The shooting happened Thursday evening in the 2500 Block of Colson Avenue in Sarasota was pronounced dead that evening at Sarasota Memorial Hospital Investigators are seeking additional witnesses and surveillance video Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office deputies have issued a warrant for a man involved in a Sarasota death investigation Deputies responded to a death that occurred in the area of 2500 Colson Avenue in Sarasota on Thursday. An altercation led to the death of Reginald Graves. Sheriff’s officials were unable to share details on the events that led up to Graves’ death but they have identified 33-year-old Trae B In case you missed it: Sarasota deputies investigate fatal Venice shooting; no arrests made at this time Paramedics provided life-saving aid and transported Graves to Sarasota Memorial Hospital Melissa Pérez-Carrillo covers breaking news and public safety for the Sarasota Herald-Tribune. Reach out at mperezcarrillo@gannett.com Sarasota County has completed a master plan of its watersheds in the wake of last year's hurricanes it would allow county homeowners to get discounted rates on flood insurance The plan looks at how future storms will impact the county including sea level rise and climate change It also maps out wetlands and natural water channels that can be used to hold rainwater during hurricanes ALSO READ: A YouTube video reveals a dike breach during Debby that caused mysterious Sarasota flooding Fred Bloetscher of Florida Atlantic University said the purpose is to be part of the community rating system for the National Flood Insurance Program This would allow residents to get to the next level of flood insurance reduction and the problem areas then will go into more detailed stormwater master plans and modeling that will come up with specific solutions for those areas," he said during a recent Zoom conference The plan also looks at potential impacts of sea level rise along the county's barrier islands Building sea walls and raising structures will likely have to happen He said the county is looking at sea level rise in 50-year segments "And that means that nobody has to really do anything today but it might be something for the future as redevelopment occurs," he said As for limiting development density in floodplains he said: "The county and the city obviously could look and say density is such that if we were to go redevelop and alter the current patterns we can reduce the amount of flooding that would be there.' " but it's not one of the solutions or really the discussion items that CRS wants you to look at," he said referring to Sarasota County’s Community Rating System classification doing less doesn't really do anything for your flood insurance." Image: Everett Dennison Marcus Walfridson traveled from Sweden to Sarasota in 2018 to visit an old buddy and quickly came to a realization: Sarasota needed a soccer team “I wanted to build something that could be a community asset,” he says soccer is neighborhood-driven and gives that neighborhood a thing to cheer for.” professional soccer is dominated by Major League Soccer (MLS) which has 27 domestic teams and three Canadian teams all sanctioned by the United States Soccer Federation (Orlando’s Orlando City team is the nearest to our area.) The United Soccer League (USL) is often considered the second tier of American soccer there are Championship squads like the Tampa Bay Rowdies followed by League One and League Two teams who have played as a League Two team in recent years are slated to level up and join the USL’s League One roster next year it will introduce a system of relegation and promotion in which teams move in and out of leagues based on their performance from season to season He also understands that the rules can be confusing I recommend people new to soccer watch Ted Lasso,” Walfridson says “I think the show has done a lot for our country to understand the game.” the Paradise hosted games at Sarasota High School where turnout reached as high as 1,000 fans the maximum capacity for the school’s bleachers By moving from Sarasota High to Premier Sports “Our main target is to get people out to hang out together to feel like they’re part of something,” says Walfridson the move to Premier Sports has been an easy transition for the team thanks to the complex’s 23 FIFA-sized soccer fields and well-appointed locker rooms A press box will also open in the near future “We’re planning for a beer garden with lots of shade Walfridson wants to add a local women’s team to the mix “We’re here to make this place better in all ways,” he says “is that the community all hangs out at the games throwing scarves up in the air and chanting Each week The Herald-Tribune staff will select nominees for the Herald-Tribune Athlete of the Week poll sponsored by Central Florida Behavioral Network Nominees are derived from scores and stats emailed in by Sarasota and Manatee county coaches during the week to htincoming@gmail.com Readers can then vote in the online poll to determine the Athlete of the Week The winner of the April 21-26 poll was Venice High baseball player Jonathan Mauro with 26.81% of the vote In Venice's 11-1 victory over Olympia in the teams' Class 7A-Region 2 best-of-3 quarterfinal series A poll will be posted at heraldtribune.com each Monday The nominees for the week of April 28-May 3 are: Braden River: In two Pirate Class 5A-Region 3 semifinal games against Manatee Curbelo combined to go 6-for-8 with two doubles Bradenton Christian: In Panther Class 1A-Region 3 semifinal and final matches Venice: In Venice's 5-1 Class 7A-District 12 title victory over Riverview Neptune pitched seven innings and got the win Parrish Community: In the Bulls' 2-1 Class 6A-District 12 title victory over Lakewood Ranch Van Beck pitched seven innings and got the win allowing five Mustang hits and the one run Riverview: At the Class 4A-Region 3 championships Bates placed first in the pole vault with a jump of 13-91/4 Saint Stephen's: At the Class 1A-Region 3 championships Dillingham placed first in the 400-meter hurdles (1:01.72) and second in the 100-meter hurdles (14.84) Booker: At the Class 2A-Region 3 championships Edwards placed first in the 100-meter hurdles (14.43) and first in the 400-meter hurdles (1:03.23) Cardinal Mooney: At the Class 2A-Region 3 championships Hroncich placed first in the pole vault with a jump of 18-101/4 Jackson placed first in the 100-meters in a time of 10.85 Manatee: At the Class 3A-Region 3 championships Johnson placed first in the long jump (24-1/4) and second in the triple jump (44-111/2) Miller placed first in the javelin with a throw of 180-2 feet Venice: At the Class 4A-Region 3 championships Schafer placed first in the discus with a heave of 155-8 feet Shield placed first in the 100 meters (11.97) and first in the 200 meters (24.60) Wise placed first in the 3200 meters in a time of 9:27.92 Here at the regional softball pairings for high school teams in Sarasota and Manatee counties The quarterfinal round for Classes 1A and 2A is Wednesday; for Classes 3A-7A the quarterfinal round is Thursday For all classes the semifinal round is Tuesday May 13 and the championship is Thursday May 15 Class 1A-Region 3Watch FHSAA softball playoffs on NFHS Network Shop top-rated travel products and services to help you save on your next trip:  Get the best experience and stay connected to your community with our Spectrum News app. Learn More MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — A 2024 survey from The Trevor Project shows that 90% of LGBTQ+ young people said their wellbeing was negatively impacted due to recent politics Additionally, anti-transgender state laws significantly increased incidents of past-year suicide attempts among trans and nonbinary youth by as much as 72% India Miller is a 56-year-old trans woman who has always been a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community “I’m here out on a street corner in Sarasota saying Miller knows how to start the conversation about being transgender “Live your best life focusing on the best person you can be,” she said She is doing what she calls “transplaining” — she allows anyone to ask her questions It made me profoundly different and depressed Miller says transitioning from male to female has been difficult “My family didn’t have anything to do with me And a lot of the things that we were afraid I would encounter The 56-year-old says part of the reason is because of recent laws that have been passed “Never has this much hatred been focused on such a small group of people it feels like the adults that could save us — that for less than 1% of the population — that 99% of the population is doing nothing to help us,” she said It’s a topic Miller addresses as much as she can “I’m a very out and proud transgender woman,” she said She recently attended an interfaith event in Sarasota “So I am very outspoken — in states like Florida where we introduced the anti-LGBTQ legislation,” she said Miller says the laws make the younger generation feel hopeless President Donald Trump has made his stance clear in an executive order “My Administration will defend women’s rights and protect freedom of conscience by using clear and accurate language and policies that recognize women are biologically female Miller says she’ll continue to share her message with the world And she is advocating for the LGBTQ+ community — one step at a time The changes are probably about the real estate New College under President Richard Corcoran is the least efficient institution in the State University System Its academic standing since the “transformation” has been significantly diminished despite the best efforts of those faculty and students committed to preserving its legacy Perhaps we should evaluate whatever is going on at New College as a real estate transaction Developers are not held accountable for GPAs or faculty retention Maybe we should wait to see how long it takes to consolidate this valuable real estate and see what offer it gets from a developer Hasn’t developer Carlos Beruff given the college $1 million to build a ballfield at University Parkway and U.S former chair of the New College Board of Trustees and the New College Foundation Since legislators were debating the possibility of property tax cuts they also need to consider proposals for homeowners it’s almost like having a mortgage even on properties that are paid off These people don’t necessarily own second homes but may have differently structured homeownership We’re 100 days into President Donald Trump's second presidency and the war in Ukraine is over Russian President Vladimir Putin has apologized The first days of this administration have been a total disaster unemployment is up and our image around the world has gone in the toilet Decades-long friends (like Canada) have turned their backs on us Former President Ronald Reagan said tariffs don’t work and only add to inflation and destroy the goodwill of our trading partners All instituted by the brilliant businessman who bankrupted a casino Republican representatives and senators are hiding under their desks terrified of “Dear Leader.” His pathetic Cabinet is filled with unqualified “yes men and women.” Florida’s Pam Bondi and “Little Marco Rubio” are the worst which is our chance to get rid of pro-Trump The second is more severe but very effective: “No taxation without representation," right President Donald Trump is gaslighting the American people and the press is helping him to do it an interview with a reporter/correspondent or a town hall meeting he exaggerates – and if a member of the press questions him on the veracity of his statements The interview that Terry Moran from ABC had with Trump the other night was a classic example: Trump said the dip in the GNP was all Joe Biden’s fault he grossly exaggerated the trade deficit with China and said that the tariffs would have an inconsequential effect on the U.S The only answer to his constant gaslighting is for the press to give him less oxygen. Stop following him, stop interviewing him I know it is difficult to keep up with tariff news This seems to have slipped by: President Donald Trump announced new tariffs on coffee bean imports coffee farming ground to a halt more than a century ago due to imports especially since land is now available due to the unfair tariffs imposed on U.S Critics from elite universities claim that coffee is not a true legume that is planted and harvested annually Their claim that coffee grows on trees is a hoax We believe that our American farmers can grow coffee beans and that U.S Write to us: How to send a letter to the editor Image: Saradrona/Shutterstock.com President Trump recently changed the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. Does it really matter? We called one of the world’s premier Gulf experts—Pulitzer Prize-winning environmental historian Jack E. Davis author of 2017’s The Gulf: The Making of an American Sea—to ask him “The subtitle of my book is ‘The Making of an American Sea.’ The name change is a natural corollary to everything else we’ve done We have made it an American sea by industrializing it overpopulating and overbuilding the coast—dominating it and polluting it Having grown up on the Gulf and having this lifelong it’s an unfortunate distraction from what the Gulf really needs: wise leadership that will be able to deal with the challenges that it and other parts of the American coast are facing in this climate change century “I don’t think this president has any intention of doing that and our current governor in Florida doesn’t have any “It was in part a response to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in 2010 and Hurricane Katrina in 2005 The world had this image of the Gulf as being little more than a giant offshore oil field in a hurricane alley I wanted my readers to know that it’s much more than that “It’s the ninth or 10th largest body of water in the world and it’s one of the richest estuarine environments in the world which makes it one of the most productive commercial fisheries in the U.S it outperforms the entire East Coast of the United States It’s the most popular saltwater fishing hole in America “It is also one of the most popular birding spots in America fly some 500 to 600 miles across the Gulf from the Yucatan to the northern Gulf Coast stopping on Gulf shores to rest and replenish birders refer to it as the ‘Gulf Express.’ “People have lived on Gulf shores for 8,000 to 10,000 years They rarely hunted land animals because everything they needed was in the estuary They took 95 percent of their protein from the Gulf and thrived for thousands of years.” Image: Saige Roberts which is used as a distraction from the reality The dead fish washing up on the beach are typically described by the media elected leaders and policymakers as a natural phenomenon What we’re seeing in the Sarasota and Fort Myers area [should be called] cow tide It’s toxic water coming down the Caloosahatchee River and from Lake Okeechobee and the sugar and sod-growing land and the cow pastures Every day after school I grabbed my rod and reel and went down to the causeway bridge and threw my hook in the water The only thing I could ever catch was a croaker or The only birds I saw were brown pelicans and gulls I didn’t see beautiful stick-legged wading birds because Tampa Bay had lost 70 to 80 percent of its seagrass beds Seventy percent of the waters around the United States were unsafe for swimming and fishing by the 1970s which led to cleaning up bays and bayous and rivers and bodies of waters what we are seeing now is that we’re backsliding “Part of it has to do with the fact that we won’t stop building on the coast I’m talking about stormwater and wastewater systems We’re putting more and more people in harm’s way The one species we are not pushing to the brink of extinction is the construction crane An excellent example is the way we spent the BP oil spill money It’s gone to good causes and to the restoration of estuarine environments all around the Gulf “I give hundreds of public talks and people come up to me afterward and ask ‘What can we do?’ The best thing you can do is to stop watering your damn St Augustine grass because nearly 50 percent of potable water in Florida which in most places is drawn out of the aquifer You’re not sending pesticides and fertilizers into the stormwater system which ends up in bays and bayous and takes a major toll on bodies of water please change your idea of an aesthetically pleasing yard and create something that’s vibrant with life I have all kinds of bird life and butterflies and bees in my yard and lots of lizards that my dog likes to chase It’s a wonderful space and it’s regenerative But I love that X in ‘Mexico’ because X marks the spot that I love The Sarasota County Commission is set to approve a $14 million contract to buy Camp Venice RV Resort, a 20.8-acre park on the west bank of the Myakka River just south of Snook Haven this week Funding for the purchase would come from Sarasota County’s Environmentally Sensitive Land Protection Program. Camp Venice has operated for the past four decades as a campground both for recreational vehicles and tent camping 13 independently owned park model modular homes boat ramp and a private wastewater treatment plant 24 to complete an evaluation and closing will be set within 30 days of when the seller delivers written notice that the park models have been removed or until Feb The seller can extend that date until March 31 if all the park models have not been removed What will Sarasota County do with the site?Sarasota County has until Aug Sarasota County will ultimately keep the campgrounds open for public use it will decommission the wastewater treatment plant and hook the camp up to the county's water and sewer system The overall startup project that the commission will be asked to approve includes about $2 million to connect the water and sewer and spruce the place up The site includes about six acres of mesic hammock and riverine habitat along the Wild and Scenic Myakka River Sarasota County owns several parcels along the Myakka River, including Snook Haven, the Sleeping Turtles Preserve to the north, the Jelks Preserve to the south, and the Deer Prairie Creek Preserve – which is opposite the Jelks Preserve – on the east side of the river said via text that Sarasota County has stopped negotiations for a new vendor to operate Snook Haven once the $8.8 million renovation of Snook Haven is complete Sarasota County will seek to operate both Snook Haven and Camp Venice together and will issue a new request for proposals to operate the entire complex Sarasota County has an overall strategic plan to increase access to waterfront land and promote ecotourism as well as nature-based experiences for school children The item is set to come up as part of the commission's items set for routine collective approval on the May 6 agenda – though one of the five commissioners could also ask for specific discussion A proposal to put New College in Florida in charge of the University of South Florida Sarasota campus appears to be dead The Ringling currently is run by Florida State University in Tallahassee while USF Sarasota-Manatee (USFSM) houses students and programs overseen by the Tampa-based USF Both campuses neighbor New College’s Sarasota campus But plans to shift management of nearby community treasures were met with local resistance Much of that comes from supporters of New College who dislike the new direction of the school Many don’t want to compromise the existing successes of USFSM or The Ringling “I’ve made it clear that it’s not something the community supports,” said Rep said the institutions will all continue to thrive regardless “New College will continue its rapid expansion and is well-positioned to thrive under the leadership of President Corcoran,” Gruters said Gruters is an alumnus himself for the USFSM “USF Sarasota-Manatee holds a special place for me personally — it’s where I completed my fifth year of accounting in preparation for the CPA exam,” he said “The campus has long played an important role in our community and it will continue to serve the needs of the region with the same strong academic programs I believe it’s worth bringing the community and all stakeholders together to explore whether some form of unification could create greater efficiencies and an even stronger academic environment for everyone involved.” Still not happy about the destruction of New College Reply Public pressure sometimes works yet and glad it did in this case and let’s find out why Corcoran makes so much money for such a small college! Reply Maybe Corcoran’s outrageously high salary–particularly for someone with zero experience in higher eduction–is one reason the cost-per-student at New College is around $91,000 compared to the state average of $10,000 Reply The complexities of maintaining a museum cannot be considered lightly FSU has the necessary resources and capabilities to support a world class museum and museum education program This is the right decision for the museum and the State of Florida Reply and website in this browser for the next time I comment Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" This platform and all of its content are owned by Extensive Enterprises Media Publisher: Peter Schorsch @PeterSchorschFL © Copyright by Extensive-Enterprises 2025. All rights reserved. STAFF LOGIN United StatesChevron FloridaChevron GettySave this storySaveSave this storySaveAll products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links consults over 1,000 global travel professionals as judges to nominate top coastline contenders from locations around the world or on-the-ground travel experts with local knowledge then offer up detailed insights of each beach destination A list that highlights not only the most scenic beaches but the ones that deliver a full and top-tier sensory escape Siesta Beach was the only US destination to make the cut this year. Beating out heavyweights from Hawaii, California the dreamy Gulf Coast shore has now officially captured the hearts of international travel experts “And having it at our fingertips right here in the US is truly something special.” travelers already exploring southern Florida can add it as a stop to their Keys itinerary There’s a whole slew of reasons our readers continue to fall hard for Florida’s gulf coast: iconic sunsets, waterfront dining, and active beach scenes The island of Siesta Key is home to three distinct beaches: Siesta Beach the lively and most photographed stretch; Crescent Beach a more private cove perfect for snorkeling near Point of Rocks; and Turtle Beach slightly rugged escape ideal for shell collecting and kayaking the best time to travel to Siesta Beach is April to May or September to early October “Be mindful of Florida's hurricane season which runs from June through August,” Covel says—with a note of the new storm-normal season extending through October “If you choose to travel during hurricane season I highly recommend travel insurance in case of any unexpected weather.” In fact last year’s Hurricane Milton caused significant damages to Sarasota County—with storm surges the beaches at Siesta Key and Lido Beach reopened last November If you’re looking for a day trip to Siesta Key’s (or perhaps the charming coasts of Anna Maria Island) book a hotel or Airbnb on Longboat or Lido Key Want to be the first to know? Sign up to our newsletters for travel inspiration and tips A Guide to Korčula, Croatia Why Everyone Will Be Going to Osaka in 2025 A London Local’s Melting-Pot Itinerary for Food This New Eco-Cruise Through the Galápagos Takes Passengers On a Safari at Sea up-to-the-minute voice in all things travel Condé Nast Traveler is the global citizen’s bible and muse We understand that time is the greatest luxury which is why Condé Nast Traveler mines its network of experts and influencers so that you never waste a meal or a hotel stay wherever you are in the world By Melissa RatliffPublished: May 2025 at 9:12 AM EDTEmail This LinkShare on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInSARASOTA (WWSB) - A significant number of horses running the Kentucky Derby this Saturday have ties to Florida One of those horses also has ties to the Suncoast Flying Mohawk is co-owned by former Major League Baseball star Jayson Werth and MLB Agent Jeff Berry The 3-year-old colt is represented by Two Eight Racing in Bradenton Flying Mohawk is receiving training from the best of the best at Churchill Downs and he has never raced on a dirt track before All three races that comprise the Triple Crown are on dirt 2025 at 5:44 PM EDTEmail This LinkShare on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInMANATEE COUNTY (WWSB) - A motorcyclist was killed in a crash in I-75 overnight Saturday according to officials with the Florida Highway Patrol A 25-year-old man was traveling on a Kawasaki Ninja southbound on I-75 at a high rate of speed and lost control traveling on to the off-ramp at US 301 The bike struck a guardrail and the man was thrown from the motorcycle The future of Midnight  Pass, opened by the one-two punch of hurricanes Helene and Milton last year, could be greatly enhanced by some form of inlet management plan speakers at a Sarasota public forum on the longstanding issue Thursday said Sarasota Bay Estuary Program Executive Director David Tomasko one of four panelists discussing the future of the pass at a Sarasota Tiger Bay Club meeting pointed to the plan established by Collier County to manage Clam Pass as a prime example Once one of three passes that linked Clam Bay to the Gulf – development in the 1950s and '60s closed the other two – Clam Pass closed naturally in 2012 and Collier County received a permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to dredge it in 2013 to improve water quality. Once the depth drops to a certain point and the speed of the water moving in and out slows down enough "the pass is in danger of permanently closing so they go and do a dredging,” Tomasko explained of the strategy behind pass management the former co-director of New College of Florida's environmental studies program chairman of local environmental advocacy group Manasota-88 both agreed that Collier County’s policy was worth looking into “I think it’d be great to have the Collier County people come out and explain how that all works,” Miller said Midnight Pass Society II board member Mike Holderness did not voice an opinion on Clam Pass but did say that Sarasota County – which monitors and models the flow of the Midnight Pass – should also actively pursue permitting for dredging “I don’t know why the permitting process hasn’t started,” Holderness said “All we’re doing is monitoring it and …it’s just moving to the north and as it moves to the north we could have another storm that closes it “That could make it a lot more difficult to open.” “this is a different culture” than in 2008 when the Florida Department of Environmental Protection rejected a Sarasota County plan to reopen the pass Sarasota County and public sentiment behind reopening Midnight Pass The Sarasota County Commission listed keeping Midnight Pass open among its 2025 strategic planning priorities “This is what needs to happen,” Holderness said “We need to get started on the permit process so we can know what other things we need to work on to get started Compton said it would be critical to see the type of permit Sarasota County pursues “The devil is in the details,” Compton said what seagrasses are going to have to be mitigated.” In response to an email asking if the county had started actively pursuing permits to dredge Midnight Pass a Sarasota County spokeswoman queried Public Works then responded: “The county is not pursuing permits and has no plans to dredge or otherwise stabilize Midnight Pass we will pursue an emergency permit to reopen the inlet if it is closed by a storm,” she added How big was Midnight Pass before it closed?In October 1921 – before tropical systems were named – a hurricane opened what was then dubbed Musketeers Pass between Siesta and Casey keys By 1955 Midnight Pass was more than 500 feet wide with a maximum depth of 13 feet director of policy and advocacy for the Gulf Coast Community Foundation said prior to that other passes existed on Siesta Key Miller pointed out Sanderling Lagoon and Turtle Bay Lagoon are both remnants of former passes Midnight Pass closed, in part because of a change in water flow in Sarasota Bay and Little Sarasota Bay that was a result of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dredging of the Intracoastal Waterway in the early 1960s. Tomasko noted that the only calibrated hydrodynamic study showed the Intracoastal Waterway did have an impact on the pass with dredging of the material making it easier for water to move south to the Venice inlet Syd Solomon and Pasco Carter Jr. received permission to close Midnight Pass in 1983 in an attempt to save their south Siesta Key homes Solomon and Carter made several attempts to reopen the pass farther south but those attempts failed Four decades later Hurricane Helene and then Hurricane Milton succeeded in reopening the pass “I was out at Midnight Pass yesterday and it’s a beautiful place,” Tomasko said “and it really doesn't show a lot of signs that it will close but the depths range from three feet to 13 feet “Right now you have a pass that can be used by boats but not every boat,” he continued I wouldn’t do it and I have a 31-foot boat so I’m not going to go through it with a 31-foot boat “We used to say make the boat fit the landscape; now all of a sudden we have to make the landscape fit our boats.” That thought of changing the pass to accommodate larger boats is one of the things that especially concerned Compton Back when Carter and Solomon were pushing  at a Sarasota County Commission meeting to close the shallow pass that crept north in favor of reopening the pass farther south because they were passionate about the plan a lot of people "there was very upset that they lost their boat access to the Gulf and they’re still very upset,” he added “That’s why we’re basically still debating this – a lot of people want access to the Gulf from Little Sarasota Bay and they want a pass that’s big enough to navigate “Until that happens this is an issue that's not going to go away Holderness countered that tidal exchange is the main issue for Midnight Pass Society II is that nobody on our board (Midnight Pass Society II) or on this panel has really talked about navigation,” Holderness said sustainable tidal flow into Little Sarasota Bay – it’s not about navigation ““Will we be able to navigate small boats through there that you’ll be able to get a nice boat in and out,” he added Tomasko said that if people are happy with the current water exchange through Midnight Pass the next step is for Sarasota County to pursue an inlet management plan – though the current pass could last for years ‘It’s dynamic; it’s not going to stay where it is so keep houses away from it,” Tomasko said “Look at the inlet management pass for Clam Pass; it’s not dredging it out to the ICW, it is not based upon navigation,” Tomasko said "It’s maintaining water flow and the maintenance of  water flow can be done a lot cheaper." Collier County has had to dredge Clam Pass several times to maintain water flow After that initial dredging in 2013, it had to be dredged again in 2014, 2016 and 2018 and most recently in 2024. in case you do need spot dredging,” Tomasko said and later added: “Hydrologic restoration of tidal connections is done all over the state of Florida – it’s done in Tampa Bay – it’s done all over the world “This place has been singularly ineffective for 40 years because you’ve been too insular you’ve not looked outside of Sarsaota Bay,” he added While several commissioners supported purchasing the property on East Avenue and Main Street Commissioners Tom Knight and Joe Neunder were hesitant about making a hasty purchase during the April 22 meeting The project is part of a larger push to fix a long-standing jail overcrowding problem In order for officials to be able to expand the jail they would need to tear down the current six-story Criminal Justice Center (CJC) on Ringling Boulevard across from the Judge Lynn N Silvertooth Courthouse and build a new one in a different location Previously reported: Sarasota County looks to buy $4.8 million space for new Criminal Justice Center In case you missed it: Sarasota County's jail has been overpopulated for 20 years. Voters will decide its future Since the proposal needed four of five votes in favor it failed to pass and the contract for the county’s purchase became “null and void” after an April 25 deadline passed The selling price of $4.87 million appeared to be a sticking point as was the uncertainty over whether the county could actually build the new center since the issue will need to go before voters as a ballot referendum in late 2026 The parcel at 2100 Main Street was last sold in November 2022 to an out-of-state limited liability company for nearly $2.6 million The Sarasota County Property Appraiser assesses it at $1.8 million but on the real estate market its value has apparently doubled since the last sale The original asking price was $5.8 million Commissioner Ron Cutsinger was supportive of purchasing the parcel even if the referendum doesn’t pass since the parcel is right where the county needs it to be It was noted during the meeting and in previous reporting that if the parcel was purchased and the referendum doesn’t pass repurposed for other county needs or re-sold than need it and not have it,” Cutsinger said While the deadline for the contract for the parcel passed the county still has another potential option: a city-owned parking lot on the south side of Ringling Boulevard near the Lynn N Talks with the city about the lot were initiated but a price was not mentioned during the meeting I'd like to see what the City of Sarasota property could amount to and typically I don't like to kick things down the curb or even use that comparison or analogy I'd just like to take a step back and breathe a little bit." county staff presented commissioners with other options or at the current site of a county-owned parking garage The commission rejected the idea of building at the Washington Avenue location as they considered it valuable real estate Local Sarasota city and government reporter Christian Casale contributed to this article 2025 at 9:45 AM EDTEmail This LinkShare on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInSARASOTA (WWSB) - The City of Sarasota is encouraging residents to begin their preparation for hurricane season that starts on June 1 The City will mark Hurricane Preparedness Week the City will share messaging on its social media channels that includes preparation tips and techniques for before as well as additional information and resources from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration “While our community faced many hardships with the 2024 hurricane season we have learned much about readiness,” said Mayor Liz Alpert “We all need to be as prepared as possible going into hurricane season on June 1 and ensure you’re as ready as you can be for a tropical weather event.” Residents are encouraged to store at least seven days’ worth of non-perishable food and prescriptions for each member of their household in case of a weather-related emergency They should also put together a hurricane kit containing essential items like flashlights Sarasota County will offer residents a primer on preparation for the 2025 hurricane season, starting at 6 p.m. with a “Community Conversation on Hurricane Preparedness,” at Riverview High School Hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov the Sarasota-based Climate Adaptation Center predicted an extremely active 2025 season including 17 named storms and 10 hurricanes – with five of those considered major hurricanes rated Category 3 or higher The May 8 community conversation includes speakers from local state and federal agencies sharing information on disaster preparedness recovery resources and insights from the 2024 hurricane season Sarasota County Emergency Services Director Rich Collins will moderate a panel discussion that includes: Sandra Tapfumaneyi Sarasota County Emergency Management Chief; Kevin Guthrie Florida Division of Emergency Management Director; Ileana M Small Business Administration Public Affairs Specialist; Jennifer Hubbard National Weather Service Warning Coordination Meteorologist; John Brogan Federal Emergency Management Association Federal Coordinating Officer Doors open for the Community Conversations at 5 p.m Attendees should arrive early to pass through the school security system “This event is a great opportunity for residents to learn more and hear directly from experts about where we are in the long-term recovery process from the 2024 hurricane season,” Tapfumaneyi said in a prepared statement “There will be a lot of information on disaster recovery resources and how to be prepared for the upcoming hurricane season.” attendees will be able to speak with representatives from municipalities state and federal organizations at various booths before Sarasota County will also host a stormwater preparedness workshop for Lemon Bay from 5 to 7 p.m. Venice Hurricane Expo set for May 30Venice’s annual Hurricane Expo is scheduled for 9 a.m The revamped expo will include Venice city staff presentations and a review of lessons learned from the 2024 hurricane season as well as stormwater preparedness information for the Dona and Roberts Bay watershed Videos of Venice city staff presentations made at the expo should also be made available on the city website North Port Hurricane Expo set for May 31North Port’s Hurricane Expo is scheduled for 10 a.m The expo will include information on stormwater preparation for the Myakka River watershed The city of Sarasota does not plan an expo of its own but is using its social media during Hurricane Preparedness Week to offer tips and technique for storm preparation we have learned much about readiness,” Sarasota Mayor Liz Alpert said in a prepared statement Basics include storing at least seven days worth of non-perishable food water and prescriptions for everyone in the household and creating a hurricane kit for essentials such as flashlights Residents everywhere in Sarasota County had learn their evacuation level at :https://bit.ly/3GGCupV.City of Sarasota specific information can be found at https://www.SarasotaFL.gov while an alerts messaging page can be found at https://www.SarasotaFl.gov/Alerts 2025 at 12:40 PM EDTEmail This LinkShare on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInFormer Sarasota City Commissioner Erik Arroyo is asking the city to reimburse more than $10,000 in legal fees he spent fighting ethics complaints that had not previously been reported Laura Bowers and Bill Farber — filed complaints early last year with the Florida Commission on Ethics accusing Arroyo of using his elected position to promote a proposed project without disclosing his business ties to it The complaints stemmed from a February 2024 commission meeting where local businessman Jeff Koffman presented a proposal to turn Ken Thompson Park into a Park Golf course Arroyo had requested the proposal be added to the agenda and One month later, the Sarasota Herald-Tribune reported that Arroyo had business connections to a company affiliated with Koffman’s Park Golf business — ties he did not disclose before the presentation or before he voted The statewide ethics commission launched a preliminary investigation but later dismissed the case after concluding that none of the complainants had “personal information” about the allegations a requirement under a newly tightened state law governing ethics cases Florida legislators overhauled the state’s ethics laws in June 2024 a move some advocates say has made it harder for residents to file successful complaints While Senate Bill 7014 increased the maximum fine for violating the state’s ethics rules to $20,000 it put more restrictions on who can file ethics complaints It now requires anyone filing one to have personal knowledge of the alleged unethical conduct and makes them responsible for attorney fees for “malicious” filings Although the Florida Commission on Ethics publicly stated it dismissed the case because of recent changes to state law it did not disclose that its own advocate in October had recommended finding a lack of probable cause The ethics commission advocate — a lawyer who fills the role of prosecutor in an ethics investigation — appeared to base his decision on the fact that Arroyo did not directly represent the two companies at the February commission meeting: Ride Entertainment and HSK Industries Inc Koffman was presenting for Ride Entertainment of Sarasota LLC with Arroyo providing legal services for other Koffman affiliated companies: Park Golf Entertainment Inc Arroyo says complaints were political attack Arroyo denounced the ethics complaints as a political attack by his rivals to damage his reputation and maintained that he did nothing wrong in the matter was a presentation that went nowhere,” he told Suncoast Searchlight But two of the three residents who filed complaints denied politics played a role telling Suncoast Searchlight that they believed Arroyo simply had crossed a line and needed to be held accountable a State College of Florida student who plans to attend the University of South Florida in the fall said he typically agrees with Arroyo’s political positions but was shocked by what he saw as legitimate conflicts of interest “The evidence I found was pretty easy to follow if you just put two and two together,” said Lovisa who expressed disappointment with the conclusion to his complaint Bill Farber said he filed the complaint with the support of the Lido Shores Property Owners Association over which he presides and expressed concern about the intertwined interests of the commissioner and the local businessman he said he had no problem with Arroyo seeking to be reimbursed Suncoast Searchlight also reached out to Laura Bowers The City Commission will vote Monday on whether to approve Arroyo’s request for $10,285 in reimbursement Staff noted in a report included in the upcoming commission agenda that Arroyo had not been found guilty of wrongdoing and that Florida law entitles public officials to legal representation at public expense when defending against ethics complaints a city resident and frequent critic of City Hall blasted the ethics commission decision and urged the commission to reject Arroyo’s reimbursement request “This nonsensical ruling places elected officials who do not follow ethics rules for public officials out of reach of the law,” she wrote in an email to the city clerk and forwarded to a reporter it awards absolute immunity for any action that they are engaged in something that has a public purpose.” Franklin noted that a similar legal argument resulted in the city commission spending $25,000 defending a defamation suit she brought against City Commissioner Kyle Battie stemming from a doctored social media post she said he used to discredit her That suit was dismissed after Battie argued his role as a city commissioner provided him immunity Franklin said she has spent $60,000 in the suit against Battie while questioning the fairness of the city footing bills she views as self-inflicted by the commissioners “Will you show any ethical backbone at all by declining to pay the legal fees for Erik Arroyo’s undisclosed conflict of interest?” she asked in her email Arroyo brushed off the complaints and lingering controversy as political theater saying critics were eager to create drama where none existed “My political opponents do it all the time,” he said This story was produced by Suncoast Searchlight, a nonprofit newsroom of the Community News Collaborative serving Sarasota, Manatee, and DeSoto counties. Learn more at suncoastsearchlight.org A New College of Florida marketing director was arrested Tuesday night for exposing his sexual organs The incident marks one of four arrests for indecent exposure in Sarasota and Manatee Counties related to 47-year-old Frederick Piccolo Jr He previously worked as the spokesperson for Gov. Ron DeSantis and the director of marketing, media and strategic communication at NCF No details have been released yet regarding the incident but according to Sarasota County court records Piccolo has three separate and active cases filed against him for exposing sexual organs in changing rooms at the University Town Center in Sarasota Piccolo is no longer listed on NCF’s directory page as his page was recently removed An NCF media spokesperson could not be reached to clarify Piccolo’s employment status In case you missed it: New College backtracks after reaffirming need for Brand 'free speech' panel During an incident at a UTC Banana Republic on Aug Piccolo was being assisted by the store manager when he allegedly began stroking his penis as he looked at the woman through the open fitting room She immediately walked away and left Piccolo alone in the fitting room He quickly got dressed and left the store without buying anything "This was an unwelcomed act that disgusted her as she was attempting to provide customer service to the defendant who she believed was a civilized customer,” deputies wrote in the affidavit Piccolo allegedly approached another store employee completely naked with no effort to cover or conceal himself As the employee went to the fitting rooms to assist Piccolo the employee asked another sales associate to assist he got dressed and left the store without making a purchase camera footage captured Piccolo’s “bizarre behavior" as he allegedly approached an employee at the UTC Dillard’s fitting room while undressed After Piccolo approached the entryway of the fitting rooms completely naked the woman refused to assist him any further purchased some clothing items he tried on and left the store More: USF Sarasota-Manatee leaders pen letter pushing back against New College takeover plans Piccolo resigned as a spokesperson for DeSantis in December 2020 after deleting his Twitter account following a controversial tweet about those who died from COVID-19, according to reporting from the Orlando Sentinel he faces four total charges for exposing sexual organs He’s facing a trial by jury for the Sarasota County charges on May 27 Melissa Pérez-Carrillo covers breaking news and public safety for the Sarasota Herald-Tribune The Florida Department of Transportation will close roads and detour traffic May 4-8 at the Legacy Trail overpass at McIntosh Road and Clark Road from 7 p.m Motorists may prefer to take an alternate route or allow for additional travel time advising drivers to use caution in the area This comes on the heels of a May 1 overnight road closure on Bee Ridge Road at the Legacy Trail Overpass For real-time traffic updates, visit https://fl511.com/ Image: Hannah Trombly Chloe Canterbury filled sketchbooks with clothing designs and convinced her sisters to star in fashion shows so opening a boutique one day didn’t seem like a far-off dream After studying fashion merchandising and moving to Sarasota in 2016, the Ohio native decided to start Surge Style Boutique as an online store before opening a physical outpost downtown in December 2020 defines Surge’s style as “beachy chic,” with women’s clothes and accessories that can be taken from dunes to dinner plus other items that she says will “spice up” your wardrobe what sets Surge apart is its price point—this is not a store where you’ll shell out $200 for a T-shirt Surge Style Boutique, 1405 First St, Sarasota, (941) 928-0685, shopsurgestyle.com Image: Courtesy Photo The store carries a variety of accessories from sunglasses and necklaces to these popular B-low the Belt Cora chain belts ($140) Canterbury has a collection of “SOTA” T-shirts Canterbury’s top sellers are the Leslie lace jeans from Bayeas which have a standard denim waist that transitions into translucent pant legs Image: Alena Grom Stolen Spring by Alena Grom of Bucha, Ukraine, won this year's People’s Choice award from Embracing Our Differences Embracing Our Differences celebrates kindness respect and inclusion through year-round programming and annual outdoor exhibits at Sarasota’s Bayfront Park and St Grom's Stolen Spring depicts a woman standing amid the bombed remains of Bucha framed by a vibrant backdrop of cherry blossoms The contrast between devastation and renewal creates a powerful tension that invites reflection on grief Grom says that the photo is part of a “historical dialogue” with Polish photographer Michael Nash Nash used decorative backdrops to photograph survivors among the ruins of Warsaw “I live in Bucha and work in Irpin," Grom says. "After the Russian occupation The military landscape has become my reality and routine Every day I see people who are restoring their cities their personal lives from the ruins and looking into the future “A stolen spring is a stolen life,” Grom continues but also a life-affirming story of a survivor—and a hope that Ukraine will rise from the ruins.” The People’s Choice award is determined by a survey available to the 382,240 visitors who attended this year’s exhibitions 19 through April 13 in Sarasota and March 1–31 in St Stolen Spring received an overwhelming number of votes—far surpassing any other work in the exhibition,” says Sarah Wertheimer president and CEO of Embracing Our Differences “Alena’s work is both intimate and universal,” Wertheimer continues “It reminds us that even in the face of profound destruction Stolen Spring speaks to the power of memory and the dignity of survival—core values that resonate deeply with our mission.” Grom received a $2,000 cash award for her work “It is especially important to me that Stolen Spring resonated so much with the viewers considering the current situation,” she says “May this victory become another ray of light reminding the world about Ukraine's struggle and the indomitable will of its people." That’s how long Herald-Tribune theater critic Jay Handelman has been covering the arts scene Jay has long been a fixture in darkened auditoriums of Sarasota his pen poised to capture the magic – or the missteps – unfolding on stage here He started here as an assistant city editor A casual conversation with a former top editor about his career aspirations eventually landed him an opportunity to cover theater Jay attributes his initial interest to growing up just outside New York City and his parents taking him to Broadway Those childhood experiences were further nurtured in high school and later at American University His early entertainment coverage varied widely from reviewing dinner theater to concerts by musical artists he estimates he attends about 100 theater performances a year “Looking back over these many years,” he reflected “the challenges of reviewing theater have evolved and navigating the delicate balance between honest critique and constructive feedback the sheer volume of theatrical offerings in Sarasota presents the biggest hurdle more productions and a greater diversity of artistic endeavors than ever before.” The Sarasota theater community itself has undergone a significant transformation The professionalism and quality of theater has improved across the board with a palpable energy and ambition that wasn’t always evident As the theater community in Sarasota has blossomed his core mission remains the same: to be a discerning observer a thoughtful interpreter and a voice for the audience to offer constructive criticism when necessary and ultimately to contribute to the ongoing dialogue between the artists and the community.”  Jay Handelman remains a steadfast presence at the Herald-Tribune His dedication has not only chronicled the growth of Sarasota's theatrical landscape but has also He has been a witness to countless opening nights each with its own unique energy and promise pondered artistic choices and fostered a deeper appreciation for the performing arts within the community Jay has become a part of the fabric of Sarasota's cultural life theaters evolve and the very definition of performance expand His enduring presence serves as a vital link between the stage and the seats a trusted voice guiding audiences through the rich tapestry of stories told under the bright lights As the curtain rises on the next act of Sarasota's vibrant theater scene you can be sure Jay Handelman will be there Rochester previously was managing editor of inewsource a nonprofit investigative newsroom in San Diego He was twice elected to the national board of directors of Investigative Reporters & Editors Inc – an international association of journalists dedicated to improving investigative journalism – and served as its vice president Helene and Milton took a terrible toll not just on the people of Southwest Florida and our built environment many nature lovers are scrambling to rebuild their slices of paradise and local nurseries say more and more customers are asking questions about native plants Indigenous plants are technically defined as species that existed here before the Europeans arrived 450 years ago and more than 3,000 varieties fall into the category While prized for their aesthetic qualities as well as their role as feeders and pollinators for butterflies native trees and plants are also typically stronger than their counterparts when it comes to tolerating saltwater and surviving high winds organized or formal than a yard filled with exotics native and Florida-friendly plants overflow with an infinite variety of foliage berries and fragrant flowers that offer food for migratory birds and insects Parrish’s Sweet Bay Nursery was founded by Tom Heitzman in 1995 Heitzman’s mantra is a refrain shared by experts: “The right plant in the right place.” That philosophy is good for the environment “You can always have something of interest blooming,” Heitzman says But while native gardens may be sturdier and better for the environment “Every garden needs maintenance,” says Heitzman Even spaces filled with Florida-friendly plants require watering Laurel Schiller is a wildlife biologist who founded Florida Native Plants in Old Miakka in 1982 and now works alongside her daughter Annie the two are a treasure trove of information and helpful tips slash pines and cabbage palms at Florida Native Plants tell you you’re in one of the last rural areas of Sarasota County where gardeners can experience what Old Florida used to be like and consult with the Schillers during which they help people by asking questions about what they hope to achieve with their garden Are they planting for privacy and screening from neighbors Are they getting rid of their costly green lawn Annie Schiller is effusive about the “amazing qualities” of native and Florida-friendly plants with a purpose—like Panama rose hybrid porter weed and red pentas that help “overwintering pollinators.” She also recommends hardy edible herbs and fruits that are good for human consumption As our region continues to recover from last year’s storms there’s never been a better time to plant a Florida-friendly garden Fertilizers containing nitrogen and phosphorus dissolve in our water eventually flowing into the Gulf of Mexico and leading to harmful algal blooms like red tide Many native plants don’t require fertilizer at all and they have the added benefit of being able to absorb runoff and prevent pollutants from reaching the Gulf in the first place “Take your little piece of land and steward it,” Annie says Image: Mick Hales Behind a picturesque cottage near the Manatee River in Bradenton Cindy Shore Coats tends an organic garden created from a blank slate that has evolved into a beloved work-in-progress caught the gardening bug when she lived in Miami After studying landscape architecture in graduate school she dove enthusiastically into the world of horticulture and native plants Coats’ cheerful and cozy urban oasis is ever-changing but the fenced back yard adds an additional 1,000 “I really want to have this all full so I can pretend I don’t have any neighbors and I’m in my own private She’s designed a tamed jungle with a winding shell path and discrete outdoor "rooms" and garden beds that beckon human visitors like a fairytale hideaway where Coats and her husband entertain and relax Plants like hanging mistletoe cactus add personality and quirky delight “I like to have the ‘wow’ factor,” Coats says blue jays and tufted titmice to bathe and play finches and grackles also make their rounds “There are a lot of people who think that a shade garden is a challenge because you can’t grow grass,” Coats says and there are a lot of beautiful plants you can grow in the shade And you get to enjoy your garden because you can be out here in the summer even in the middle of the day.” In her garden you’ll also find a workshop and a “she shed,” and accent lights enhance the atmosphere Fragrant Simpson’s stopper bushes provide screening with tiny white fragrant flowers and red berries that are perfect for birds Visual interest comes from the plant’s various tones of green and the interesting texture of its exfoliating bark and leaves “My biggest satisfaction is watching the birds and butterflies and just sitting back and looking around at my creation knowing that the wildlife also enjoys it,” Coats says Animals may not appreciate the funky chandeliers and sculptures crafted by Coats’ mom and other local artists A garden of delights is much more than just plants is widely considered a guru of native gardening Her Kensington Park home sits at the terminus of a dead-end road that was once forested She’s installed a buffer of green between herself and her neighbors and labors faithfully to establish native plants as an antidote to all the pavement Callender calls herself an “eco artist” because she uses the “relationships between all living things plants and the natural world as her medium.” In her work She experiments with material from every part of Florida while paying attention to seasonal cycles and the connections between predators and prey and flora and fauna “I’m a teacher who always learns from her plants,” she says Callender’s favorites are eight sturdy and adaptable dwarf yaupon holly also  known as “vomitoria” because Native Americans brewed them into a tea when they needed to purge blooms year-round and hosts giant swallowtail butterflies Callender teaches classes for the Sarasota Audubon Society at the Celery Fields and delivers presentations to homeowner association groups That often leads to commissions to design new landscapes in neighborhoods around the county She spends weeks drawing up huge site plans then supervises the placement of thousands of plants in a wide variety of public settings she walks through more than 350 plants made up of 130 species (They’re being replaced one by one.) In the process of making the space her own made from the wood of a tree killed during a controlled burn black totem pole and has a place of honor in the front garden a painted bunting alights on the kitchen window bird feeder for a snack while a mockingbird dives into a bush to eat a berry (The business is now known as Natura.) Today he is studying and learning all he can about native plants to become certified as a master naturalist with the University of Florida He tours botanical gardens for ideas and is highly conscious of water and land stewardship he strives to create a symphony of harmonious notes from his ornamental and native gardens which line all four sides of his Bent Tree home With one foot in both native and non-native garden worlds Glosser is taking out all the invasive species and replacing them with clumping bamboo and indigenous plants He’s also repurposing native orchids he salvaged after the hurricanes attaching them to live oak trees throughout the neighborhood informed by where and how the epiphytes grow best Trees planted decades ago tower over the landscape and garden beds in the front of the house now hold wax myrtle when you look out the window from your home your view should always be rewarded by something pleasing to the eye he and his wife Stephanie are often wowed by dozens of orchids hundreds of dramatic and unusual bromeliads in pots and luscious bougainvillea displayed like bouquets in pieces of driftwood Inside the couple’s screened pool cage is a parade of epiphytes that Glosser has collected He experiments with cuttings and varieties and says that “every plant has a story.” Shrimp plants and pentas peek out of rocks Glosser rotates in caladiums and impatiens such as purple ginger and pink-and-green-leaved snow on the mountain Glosser has created outdoor spaces for humans to lounge in and observe nature along with a garden path of crushed limestone He’s always on the lookout for new plants and ideas The sandy soil is built up with mulch and bark chips and offers wildlife a “healthy organic biome” to feed on goldenrod and coral bean are just some of the treats for butterflies that he’s increasing as he practices “remedial horticulture” to better protect the environment Glosser says he finds it “very fulfilling” to expand his universe of knowledge and change his garden accordingly Susan Levine and her husband Howard bought a modern home designed by world-famous architect Carl Abbott in 2021 built in 1986 for artist Florence Putterman on Pansy Bayou has won numerous awards for its timeless design—a synthesis of art and nature that intertwines striking architecture unspoiled water views and greenery accentuated by a panoply of blossoming flowers A star of the Sarasota School of Architecture movement and a landscape architect and native garden enthusiast Abbott has always been inspired by the land ambient light and fluctuations of weather at the Levines’ home endeavoring to conserve natural resources and protect Florida’s unique ecosystem The starkly linear front elevation of the house boasts a row of towering royal palms planted 40 years ago They make a dramatic vertical statement against dazzling blue skies and the monochrome mass of the home’s beige front wall Susan recently installed Barbara Karst bougainvillea along the top of the privacy wall a shock of color flows down and over with an explosion of magenta-red bracts and white flowers Another addition is the electric blue sculpture of a giant wave (also designed by Abbott) that contrasts with the white shell ground cover inside the courtyard and floor-to-ceiling glass reveals a massive pool deck A sparkling saltwater pool and new spa draw your eye along a straight axis southwest directly across Pansy Bayou to a green nature preserve that can never be developed A kayak shell path lined with seagrape and flanked by tailored black mangroves winds down to the shimmering water A 5,500-square-foot composite deck serves as an extended terrace that juts out over the bayou It’s the largest construction of its kind installed in Lido Shores and required a special permit from the city to build Susan keeps wetland plants that can sustain having “wet feet,” such as the sea-oxeye daisy budding with yellow flowers that withstands wind The east and west gardens flanking the terrace have new Florida-friendly flora planted since the 2024 storms Susan says the backyard was lush before the hurricanes and that last year the butterflies and bees were abundant With thoughtful replanting of the right foliage she hopes the garden will come back to life “We believe that all of our plant materials should be Florida-friendly and bring butterflies and other pollinators,” she says there’s pink flowering muhly grass and a salt-tolerant ground cover called golden beach creeper Desert cassia trees grew back after the storms and beckon pollinators with their yellow flowers Susan concentrated on healthy new plantings that inject color and diversity Selected for their salt tolerance and their function as pollinators bright red copperleaf shrubs surround Texas sage with green-blue leaves and blue flowers an unusual weeping bottlebrush is recovering from its battle with the last year’s wind and saltwater and is festooned with hardy red blossoms the Levines accented their gardens and deck with lighting that sets the right mood The blending of environmentally sensitive and visually pleasing features makes for an outdoor utopia a union of the man-made and natural worlds in an opulent space of tranquility and beauty This resource has has so much to offer aspiring gardeners Tour more than 10 gardens showcasing native plants Learn from expert horticulturists and master gardeners Get answers to your gardening questions from trained volunteers Shop until you drop every March and October Nature’s Best Hope: A New Approach to Conservation That Starts in Your Yard Natural Florida Landscaping: Using Native Plants for a Beautiful The views expressed here are the author's own 🎶✨ We’re thrilled to welcome you back to Amore Restaurant join us for an enchanting evening with Debbie Keeton on stage A theory and composition major and native of Dayton Debbie has traveled extensively across the United States fronting bands for Top 40 clubs Savor our authentic Portuguese and Italian dishes flavorful dishes crafted from the finest ingredients - 🎼 Live music that adds a magical touch to your dining experience - 🍷 The perfect setting for a memorable night out with loved ones Reserve your table now and let’s make this weekend extraordinary Artistic Director Joseph Caulkins wanted to end Key Chorale’s 40th season with as big a bang as the organization could provide “We picked the most celebratory piece in the whole repertoire that everybody knows even if they don’t know classical music,” he said about a performance of the final movement of Beethoven’s Symphony No Caulkins will lead a full chorus of more than 110 voices plus soloists and an orchestra in the all-Beethoven finale program at 4 p.m “I think it touches a nerve with the general public It also has all these universal themes of brotherhood and sisterhood and the best in humanity,” Caulkins said “Ode to Joy” is part of a program that also includes Beethoven’s “Choral Fantasy,” with piano soloist Glenn Priest and the composer’s rarely performed “Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage." Caulkins said Beethoven was the “first composer to add a chorus at the end of a major symphony Caulkins might have included the full symphony for the program but he wanted to perform the “Choral Fantasy,” which he describes as “very much like a little Beethoven nine which is unusual and then adds the chorus at the end.” Caulkins said he always is “looking for something off the beaten path” when programming the group’s concerts which led him to “Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage,” a short piece for orchestra and chorus that was written between the other works “It’s stunningly beautiful but almost unknown to the average classical music-goer,” he said The season finale marks the sixth concert Key Chorale has performed this season with a full orchestra its annual collaboration with the Circus Arts Conservatory “Most of what we do now is with orchestra,” he said “Years ago we’d be lucky if we could fund a medium-sized orchestra once a year.” The regular inclusion of an orchestra is a sign of Key Chorale’s financial organizational and artistic strength after 40 years The orchestra alone will be more than $25,000 but it helps us deliver artistically,” he said “It’s a testament to our organization that we have the funding and support from our community to raise the money it takes to present concerts like this.” ‘Beethoven’s Ode to Joy’With Key Chorale. 4 p.m. May 10, Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota. Tickets are $20-$55. The program will be followed by a 40th Joyful Jubilee reception in the Opera House Great Room. Tickets are $125-$500. 941-552-8768; keychorale.org A multimillion-dollar waterfront home is on the market in Manatee County A 30-acre estate with a main house, guest house, barn and more is listed in east Manatee County’s Mill Creek neighborhood for $7.9 million listed by Sarasota-based Realtor Bev Murray’s The Murray Group is just off the Manatee River and about five miles north of State Road 64 The estate was built in 2021 and features a three-bedroom two-bathroom main house that totals 10,220 square feet as well as a 2,560-square-foot guest house with a bedroom and an ensuite bathroom More: Age 55-and-older affordable apartment complex opens in North Port; rents start at $330 Inspired by the Cape Dutch architectural style that originated in the Western Cape of South Africa the home is finished with design elements like Acacia engineered hardwood floors and coralstone tile The property also includes towering oak trees and a 60-feet-by-40-feet climate-controlled barn “Tucked away along the peaceful Manatee River 1245 Mill Creek Road offers a rare blend of global sophistication natural beauty and unrivaled privacy,” The Murray Group’s description of the property reads “This retreat is one of the most unique and secluded compounds along the banks of the Manatee River.” Find more information on the home at https://www.murraygroupusa.com/millcreek Contact Herald-Tribune Reporter Heather Bushman at hbushman@gannett.com The title of Joshua Harmon’s dark comedy “Bad Jews” may be a turnoff to some but the play that is now running at the Sarasota Jewish Theatre is one of the most stimulating and uncomfortably amusing I’ve seen in some time The title takes on multiple meanings in the sometimes brutal battle between cousins over a precious family heirloom – a religious symbol – from their grandfather an atheist planning to propose to his gentile girlfriend the family’s so-called “Super Jew,” hold back nothing in their screaming matches and disdain for one another All the things your rational brain tells you to hold inside come out as they fight over an object that has different meanings for each of them wants nothing to do with deciding who should get it sees a side of her boyfriend that you think might frighten her away As difficult as their arguments are to witness though you may feel awkward about laughing out loud or try to cover your mouth in shock at what you’re hearing as I did several times during Wednesday’s final preview performance Sensitively and aggressively staged by Gus Kaikkonen the play begins with a good amount of tension and keeps the energy flowing throughout the fast-moving production is full of strong opinions about everyone in the family You can quickly tell from her early conversation with the mostly quiet cousin Jonah (David Sommer) that the family is tired of all her whining and judgmental comments That’s not a problem for Michael Raver as Liam who is amped for a fight the minute he realizes that he Melody and Jonah have to temporarily share a small apartment with Daphna after he missed their grandfather’s funeral They trade barbs and quips before each of them let loose with extended monologues that reveal years of pent-up anger defending their life and religious choices and attacking the other where they might seem most vulnerable who just finished a run playing siblings with Phoenix in “Lost in Yonkers,” lets you see layers of Liam’s thought process waiting for the right moment to say something seemingly innocuous that she knows will cut Liam down or even challenge the validity of his relationship with Melody Noa Friedman somehow finds a middle ground between them trying to placate Daphna while being supportive of Liam even as she’s shocked at his behavior It’s a difficult line that she navigates sensitively Kaikkonen and the cast make you believe you’re watching a family deal with their own extended history with brutal honesty and you may change your mind from moment to moment about who you support The conversations and attacks are frank and cutting but also hilarious making you perhaps more thankful about how well things went at your last family get together It’s a sharp way for the company to end its fifth season By Joshua Harmon. Directed by Gus Kaikkonen. Presented by Sarasota Jewish Theatre. Reviewed April 30. Runs through May 11 at the Sarasota Players, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Suite 1130. Tickets are $30-$42. 941-365-2494; theplayers.org Follow Jay Handelman on Facebook, Instagram and BlueSky Contact him at jay.handelman@heraldtribune.com. And please support local journalism by subscribing to the Herald-Tribune Local News Above / From January 2005 to December 2014 Ed Channell wrote a monthly column in print and online for Positively Naperville I’ve been soaking up the endless summer of Sarasota Florida—a place where the sun doesn’t just shine The Gulf Coast air hums with salt and possibility the beaches stretch out like a lazy promise and winter feels like a myth told to scare northerners I’ve traded flip-flops for sneakers and returned to Naperville There’s a rhythm to life down there that hooks you: morning walks along Siesta Key the way the horizon swallows the sun each night in a blaze of pink and gold a temporary escape from the Midwest’s mercurial moods I watched snowbirds like me flock to the farmers’ markets and debate the best shrimp shack—myself included where time slows and the biggest decision is whether to hit the pool or the patio I felt it immediately—the familiar grid of streets the DuPage River cutting its quiet path through the heart of things The air here has a crispness that Florida can’t muster a bite that reminds you the world keeps turning the bare branches of oaks and maples felt like old friends even if they’re still shaking off winter’s grip though—crocuses are poking through the soil The contrast hits hardest in the small stuff I’d grown used to the hum of air conditioners and the chatter of geckos darting across porches it’s the rumble of lawnmowers and the distant chime of the carillon tower I’d sip coffee watching pelicans dive-bomb the bay; now I’m back to cardinals flitting between feeders in my backyard There’s a groundedness to Naperville that Sarasota can’t touch—a sense of roots that don’t sway with the next breeze My wardrobe’s still half-packed with tank tops The grocery store feels overwhelming after months of minimalist beach-town hauls And don’t get me started on the pollen—Florida’s palms don’t wage the same war on my sinuses as Illinois’ budding trees Naperville’s bustle—kids biking down Jefferson the line snaking out of Lou Malnati’s—feels alive in a way that Sarasota’s laid-back vibe never quite manages Wintering in Florida taught me to savor the slow burn of sunshine but returning here reminds me why I stay: the rhythm of seasons the way spring feels earned after months of gray As I unpack my suitcase and eye the forecast—70 degrees by next week—I realize the trade-off isn’t so bad Sarasota gave me a reprieve; Naperville gives me a life Editor’s Note / Thanks for reading PN in print and online Print readers will note at the bottom of the page 27: “Ever wonder why Ed Channell thought he needed to try AI?” Get ready for a night of laughter, fun, and heartwarming generosity! On Tuesday, May 13, 2025, McCurdy’s Comedy Club in Sarasota will transform into the ultimate hotspot for giving back as 11 local bachelors take the stage for a one-of-a-kind Charity Bachelor Auction This unique fundraising event combines entertainment and philanthropy offering attendees the chance to bid on exciting date packages—all for a great cause each bachelor will offer a personalized date experience that may include everything from fine dining gift cards and personal training sessions to trolley rides These curated experiences aren’t just romantic—they’re designed to help support a variety of impactful nonprofits While the bachelor’s compete for the highest bids local favorites Mark Klecka and Kim Livengood will serve as co-hosts for the evening bringing their infectious energy and sharp wit to keep the audience engaged and entertained The event is chaired by Karen Cadou who emphasizes the community-driven spirit of the evening “This is about more than dates,” Cadou shared “It’s about local people coming together to support causes that matter from healthcare to the arts and animal welfare.” All ticket sales for the event will benefit Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, and each bachelor’s winning bid will go directly to the charity of their choice This entertaining and meaningful event is perfect for anyone looking to support local charities while enjoying an unforgettable evening out Whether you’re bidding or just cheering on your favorite bachelor your presence will help uplift the community Event Details:📍 McCurdy’s Comedy Club, Sarasota📅 Tuesday, May 13, 2025🕕 Doors open at 6 PM🎟️ Tickets: $37 — Purchase Here Come out and be a part of an evening where laughter meets love—and charity wins big Florida's Gulf Coast source for local area business news © 2025 Suncoast Post | Web Design by Sande Caplin & Associates | Sitemap | Privacy Policy | Accessibility The Suncoast Science Center/Faulhaber Fab Lab (Fab Lab) marked a milestone year with its 10th annual Remote Control Custom Car Open (RC Car) competition themed “Journey Through Time,” welcomed more than 175 young innovators from kindergarten through 8th grade for a fun and educational STEAM-powered showdown A total of 65 student teams spent two months designing and customizing remote control cars using Fab Lab’s state-of-the-art makerspace tools Participants showcased creativity and technical skill in one of five imaginative design categories: Prehistoric Prestige competitors took to two unique tracks—one drag strip celebrating 10 years of RC Car history and an obstacle course traveling through iconic time periods Middle school homeschool team Zero to Lego in 3.5 (Joshua Yannucciello and Casey Jacques) emerged as the 2025 RC Car Grand Champions taking top honors in both racing and design for their standout innovation The event also shone a spotlight on the 2025 RC Car Executive Committee a student-led team of 15 high school volunteers who brought the competition to life From selecting the theme and leading workshops to designing the tracks and awards these student leaders developed valuable technical Winners of the Design Competition received gift certificates courtesy of the Sarasota Art Museum recognizing their creativity and presentation skills This annual event was made possible by support from community partners including the Gulf Coast Community Foundation Betty Jane Helle Endowment Fund Sarasota Art Museum/Ringling College of Art + Design The RC Car Open continues to be a beloved Fab Lab tradition blending hands-on learning with real-world STEAM applications and sparking inspiration in the next generation of problem solvers and innovators For a full list of winners and to view the event photo gallery, visit https://suncoastscience.org/rc-car. Learn more about the Fab Lab’s year-round youth programs at https://suncoastscience.org REGISTER HERE: https://www.mysticaloasis.com/...No Drop-ins please Come enjoy this relaxing sound bath experience surrounded by the calming ambiance of blue lights and the full moon We’ll begin with a complimentary CBD sample to ease you into relaxation followed by peaceful music and soothing sounds · Cost: $40 Tickets are Nonrefundable / Nontransferable · Doors will open 15 minutes before class and will be locked at class start time for everyones safety · People(s) who are sensitive or prone to motion sickness should take caution form fitting clothing with NO metals or plastic · Please expect to be barefoot during class · Pre-registration required (no drop-ins) no refunds COVID-19 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS & RSVP ACCEPTANCE - ATTEND AT YOUR OWN RISK: · Spots are limited so that we can ensure enough space – preregistration is required – no walk-ins · Face masks are optional – if you feel more comfortable you acknowledge that you are attending this in person event at your own risk Your RSVP also acknowledges that you are currently healthy and agree to protect yourself and exercise social responsibility prior to and for the duration of the event Please do not attend if you are feeling unwell REGISTER HERE: https://www.mysticaloasis.com/...No Drop-ins please Infuse yourself with nature as you partake in a journey of meditation and relaxation The sound bath will begin with a complimentary sample of CBD Journey to the sound of the deep drum beat bowls and ground down like the roots of a tree with the deep vibrations of the Earth gong Sobriety-friendly CBD (optional) helps to relieve anxiety calms the nervous system and will bring you into a deep state of relaxation CBD perfectly complements the healing experienced during a Sound Bath Fall into a state of deep relaxation while opening up the body’s natural healing pathways Surrendering to the sounds will assist in releasing blockages and creating a profound sense of peace You will emerge from this journey feeling lighter it’s like receiving a high frequency sound massage for the mind REGISTER HERE: https://www.mysticaloasis.com/... Immerse yourself in the vibrations and resonance of a wide array of sacred healing instruments creating a healing vortex as you float through the cosmos · Cost: $35 Tickets are Nonrefundable / Nontransferable REGISTER HERE: https://www.mysticaloasis.com/... Come and enjoy this 75-minute sound bath designed to help you unwind and relax Let the stress melt away as you embark on a musical journey of sound that will leave you feeling like you're floating through space We’ll begin with a complimentary sample of CBD to gently ease any tension and enhance your relaxation experience The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall in Sarasota, Florida, has officially announced its much-anticipated 2025-2026 Broadway season promising a diverse array of performances that cater to all theater enthusiasts Following a previous season impacted by Hurricane Milton the Hall is set to deliver a lineup that blends timeless classics with contemporary hits.​ the Van Wezel will host a variety of performances Subscriptions for the 2025-2026 season are now available. Interested patrons can visit the Van Wezel’s official website at vanwezel.org or contact the box office at (941) 263-6799 The box office operates Monday through Friday from 10 a.m Three distinct subscription packages are offered to accommodate various preferences.​  Show information subject to change the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall stands as a cultural landmark with a seating capacity of 1,741 Designed by architect William Wesley Peters the Hall’s unique seashell-inspired architecture and distinctive purple hue make it an iconic structure along Sarasota’s bayfront the Van Wezel has been a hub for a diverse range of performances enriching Sarasota’s vibrant arts scene For a complete schedule and more details on the upcoming season, please visit the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall’s official website, www.vanwezel.org Photo from Facebook