Longboat Observer 8.31.23

Get the latest news on Idalia

As of press time, Longboat Key was under an evacuation order for Tropical Storm Idalia, which was projected to make landfall as a major hurricane Wednesday on the northern portion of the Gulf Coast.

To see our latest coverage and news from the storm, including warnings, cancellations and damage reports, visit YourObserver.com.

Gold for Gold

Longboat Key’s commissioners continue to earn high marks as they pursue further education in the ways of local government.

District 2 Commissioner

Penny Gold was recently awarded a Gold Certificate of Excellence from the Certificate Program for Elected Municipal Officials, organized by the Florida League of Cities.

This past year was the program’s inaugural year, running from August 2022 to July 2023.

Commissioners attended training programs and online seminars related to local government and in return were awarded points for the sessions they attended. Each session was worth a different number of points, from one to 10.

Examples of sessions included Legislative Action Days, FLC webinars, state-mandated ethics training and the Institute for Elected Municipal Officials training.

To get the Gold Certificate of Excellence, Gold needed to earn at least 30 points since August 2022.

Ronda Ryan leading the Great Scallop Search hosted by Sarasota Bay Watch at Sarasota Sailing Squadron.

Great Scallop Search returns

Sarasota Bay Watch hosts first scallop search since COVID.

PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER

The Great Scallop Search is back. Sarasota Bay Watch on Aug. 26 held its first scallop search since 2019. The event was on hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The citizen science event asked volunteers to spend a Saturday morning documenting data on scallops, shellfish, animals and seagrass in Sarasota Bay.

“Scallops are considered the canaries of the water,” said Ronda Ryan, executive director of Sarasota Bay Watch. “If there are changes in the water quality, the salinity, the food source or any of that, it’s going to affect the scallop population. So we do the search to look at the status of the water.”

Volunteers got to Sarasota Sailing Squadron at 8:30 a.m. They were encouraged to bring their own boats, snorkels, sun protection and fins, but Sarasota Bay Watch provided equipment for those who needed it. As people were registered, they had bagels and coffee while they listened to Ryan’s plan for the day.

“They’re going to come and register, and we’re going to give them a transect. And the transect, it’s going to have a five-gallon bucket that consists of a weighted line, a couple buoys and some heavy weights on each end,” said Ryan.

The transect is a weighted line used to measure a meter in the water.

“They’re going to put it down in the water. That weighted line is going to

lay along the bottom. Then we have a snorkeler on each side of that line. They’re going to swim along that and record what they see.”

Ryan said that volunteers recorded how many scallops and clams they saw, the type of seagrass present and if there are shells, sea horses, stingrays, fish, crabs, etc. Snorkelers will call out everything they see in the water for each meter to a data keeper on the boat, who will record it on a data sheet provided. Each boat is assigned to a different area of the bay.

The scallop searches are done along the coast annually in late summer.

Ryan said Sarasota, Tampa and Charlotte Harbor are all doing searches within a couple weeks of each other. This data will be given to Sarasota County, which has an ongoing scallop monitoring program.

FWC Fish and Wildlife Research Institute in St. Petersburg is also interested in the information collected.

“The cool thing about scallops is that they filter about 14.7 liters per hour,” said Ryan. “They suck in water and it goes across their gills and then comes out. But they are extremely sensitive, so they die very easily. In the ’60s, with the dredging and building and pollution, a lot of the seagrass beds that they require for their habitat were killed off and the scallops died. Red tides are another

problem as well.”

The first Great Scallop Search in Sarasota was 2008. It was Sarasota Bay Watch’s first formal event as a nonprofit organization. It was founded in 2006.

“You can just gather so much more data this way with it being a citizen science experiment,” said Ryan. “If you had to rely on professionals for all this, it just wouldn’t happen because there’s not enough staff or enough time. But these volunteers love doing it, so it evens it out.”

Ryan emphasized that it has always been a family fun event. She said the same families have been coming for years and their children have grown up with this event.

“It’s about getting the community out there and getting their face in

the water,” said Ryan. “It helps them get a better feel for the whole living system down there. It helps to make them stewards of the water.”

Martina Belanch snorkels to count creatures.

Mollie Holland, Brooke Langston, Federico Vasquez, Josie Collazo, Tara Goldstein, Peter Peduzzi and Wendi Gengler.

The Bloom family snorkels during the Great Scallop Search

Courtesy photos

Amber Whittle prepares for another dive.

“It’s about getting the community out there and getting their face in the water. It helps them get a better feel for the whole living system down there. It helps to make them stewards of the water.”

— Ronda Ryan, executive director of Sarasota Bay Watch

Gulf Coast RESILIENCE

structure and wash away the sediment around it. Lear said that storm surge can often be a more pressing issue than wind impacts.

To combat this, Sultana said the beachfront homes need dozens of pilings — concrete cylinders that are driven as far as 30 to 40 feet into the ground to provide strength and stability to the foundation.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

Waterfront real estate continues to attract new construction, despite the risks posed by tropical weather.

Building resilient homes in vulnerable locations requires a number of adaptations including, but not limited to, elevating houses and building them with more durable materials.

Local architects Daniel Lear of Lear Studio and Mark Sultana of DSDG

Architects agree that building up is a key to improving storm resiliency, but materials are equally important and allow for a higher degree of creativity.  Sultana’s firm DSDG has done work on both the Aria and Infinity condos on Longboat Key. The firm also has a new construction listing currently active for $16,995,000 million at 6489 Gulfside Road.

In recent years, Sultana said resiliency has been on everyone’s minds, and his office ensures that from the start there are multiple resiliency measures in place.

“These structures are made to hold up,” Sultana said.

KNOW YOUR ZONE

Homes built in Zone V, i.e. on the beachfront, need to be raised to 18.3 feet off the ground, Sultana said.

These homes’ plans must first be approved through the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, before getting the construction permits from the town of Longboat Key.  Another issue when building a home so close to the water is resisting scour.

Scour occurs when heavy waves, such as storm surge, surround a

Sultana said after the pilings are driven into the ground, another layer of concrete goes over top of that, yet no one ever sees these important and expensive structures.

Farther from the beachfront, homes built in Zone A don’t require pilings, but still need to be raised about 10-12 feet off the ground, according to Sultana.

“Really, the biggest challenge by the water is having (to) build up,” Lear said.

One of the challenges is the fact that having a structure built so high can seem intimidating. Lear said he can use certain strategies to make the homes feel shorter, or closer to the ground. He likes to try to make the stairs seem like an adventure, rather than an obstacle.

But at the same time, a raised house gives him more to work with in terms of finding places for water to percolate. Raised houses can be designed to allow for natural areas under the house that allow water to drain.

To Lear, having a natural landscape is better all around, both for drainage and aesthetics. Mangroves are a more desirable choice than a sea wall a lot of times, Lear said.

Having a raised house with space underneath can also accommodate outdoor living spaces, which Sultana said are increasingly common.

With that design, Sultana said hurricane doors are a popular addition, with about half of his clients asking for them. With the flip of a switch, heavy doors can be lowered from the hidden overhead storage, making patio furniture and the house more storm resistant.

EVOLUTION OF WINDOWS

With houses built near the water, current Florida Building Code

requires windows in the Sarasota area to be able to withstand 160 mph winds, according to Sultana. That’s near the minimum speed of sustained winds during a Category 5 hurricane.  While wind-resistant windows seemed like a big innovation years ago, they came with drawbacks at the start.

“It was really like a backward step in design,” Lear said The issue was how small they were. The smaller panes weren’t able to cover the larger windows, which required some adapting in the design phase. Often, steel bars needed to be used in between the small panes to cover larger areas.

“Now, we’re really not limited any more,” Sultana said.

Over time, the wind-resistant windows have grown enough to create large windows to allow for a view of the entire beach. Some companies even have sliding glass doors that are rated to endure these high winds.

Not only did larger, stronger windows allow for more creativity, but they also added to the sense of security for a homeowner. The added benefit is that if 160 mph winds can’t break through the windows, it makes it difficult for intruders to break through.  Even more secure are impactresistant windows, which Lear noted are also increasingly popular. Impact-resistant windows are able to withstand projectiles crashing into windows, whereas windows with a certain degree of wind resistance may not be able to stop a heavy tree branch coming at the window.

SMARTER MATERIALS

Starting from the top, Sultana said there have been many different roof designs he has implemented in recent years.

A newer trend he’s seing is the desire for concrete roofs.

“I would say five years ago, we never did a concrete roof on a house,” Sultana said.

Now, he said he has dozens of projects with concrete roofs given their durability in storms, though they tend to be more expensive than other roofing materials.

Overall, concrete is a durable option for storm resistance. Lear said in previous projects he has enjoyed using inspiration from other architects to make concrete feel “lighter,” in the visual sense.

Both Lear and Sultana talked down using wood in modern, storm-resistant designs. The issue with wood is that it doesn’t hold up in Florida’s climate. Whether it’s termites, humidity or storms, both architects said finding creative alternatives is essential.

But a lot of people like the look of wood. That prompts the need for materials that look like wood from afar, but are easier to maintain.

Sultana often turns to a material that is made of aluminum, but gives the appearance of natural wood.

Lear uses materials like NewTechWood, a composite material that also looks like natural wood, and somewhat feels like it.

These materials are more adaptable to Florida’s climate, and are less likely to need renovations as frequently as wood, which would need to be refinished almost every year.

Whether it’s materials or laying the foundation, Lear urged the importance of adapting to the market, while also making sure the structures last.

“The question is how do we build something that’s resilient but also desirable?”

Courtesy Photos

This Bay Isles modern home on Longboat Key, designed by DSDG Architects, recently won the Aurora Award for Custom Home of the Year (5,000 square feet to 10,000 square feet) at the South Eastern Builders Conference. It features resilient design aspects such as faux wood made of aluminum and solar panels.

Local architects explain how resilient construction attempts to solve risks of beachfront living.

Courtesy image

This Longboat residence was designed by Lear Studio.

L’Shana Tova!

PLEASE JOIN US FOR HIGH HOLY DAY SERVICES RIGHT ON LONGBOAT KEY

You are always welcome at Temple Beth Israel, but especially during the High Holy Days, when we celebrate the New Year with a sense of shared values, friendship, and faith. This is both our tradition and our fresh look to the future.

Our services, led by Rabbi Stephen Sniderman and accompanied by an outstanding choir, reflect the spiritual meaning of the holiday in a beautiful and uplifting way.

If you would like more information, or to purchase tickets for our holiday services, please call us. We would be glad to hear from you. And, of course, if you’re considering joining a vibrant Reform temple, whether you’re a full-time or parttime resident, you’ll find yourself right at home at Longboat Key’s Temple Beth Israel.

High Holy Day Schedule

Sales tax holiday for storm prep until Sept. 8

Sales tax won’t be collected on a variety of products to help weather the aftermath of a hurricane.

OBSERVER STAFF

Now that Florida has entered the heart of hurricane season, shoppers can take advantage of Florida’s Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday, which last until Sept. 8. Sales tax will be suspended on a wide range of products that could come in handy should the state experience landfall of a major hurricane. The sales tax holiday applies to products in a range of 11 price tiers, starting at $10 or less for pet food up to $3,000 or less for portable generators. The product categories include:

$10 OR LESS

„ Pet food

$15 OR LESS

„ Manual can openers

„ Collapsible or travel-size pet food or water bowls

„ Cat litter pans

„ Pet waste disposal bags

„ Hamster or rabbit substrate

$20 OR LESS

„ Reusable ice

„ Leashes, collars and muzzles for pets

„ Pet pads

$25 OR LESS

„ Cat litter, 25 pounds or less

$30 OR LESS

„ Laundry detergent and supplies

„ Paper products

„ Hand soap, bar soap and sunscreen

„ Dish soap and detergents

„ Cleaning and disinfecting wipes and sprays, hand sanitizer

„ Trash bags

$40 OR LESS

„ Portable self-powered light sources

„ Pet beds

$50 OR LESS

„ Portable self-powered radios, two-way radios, weather-band radios

„ Gas or diesel fuel tanks

„ Batteries including rechargeable in AA, AAA, C and D cells; and 6-volt and 9-volt

$60 OR LESS

„ Nonelectric food storage coolers

„ Portable power banks

$70 OR LESS

„ Smoke detectors or smoke alarms

„ Fire extinguishers

„ Carbon monoxide detectors

$1,000 OR LESS

„ Tarps or other flexible waterproof sheeting

„ Ground anchor systems

„ Portable pet kennels or carriers

„ Dog or cat food weighing 50 pounds or less

„ Over-the-counter pet medications

$3,000 OR LESS

„ Portable generators

For more details, visit FloridaRevenue.com/DisasterPrep.

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TEMPLE BETH ISRAEL

Budget bits: Inside Longboat’s school tax payments

Longboat Key has fewer than 100 students who attend public schools, yet property owners pay nearly $50 million a year in school taxes.

Let’s start with the obvious: Aside from tourists and visitors, Longboat Key is not a place thought of for its abundance of children. But Key residents make an important contribution every year to the kids of Sarasota and Manatee counties by doing a simple (but required) act: paying property taxes.

It’s no secret that Longboat is known as a “donor” community for the school districts. Its high property values mean it pays an outsized portion of the schools’ tax bill in proportion to the number of students the Key sends to public schools.

We took a dive into the numbers to provide some perspective — and also to show Longboaters a few things their property taxes help fund.

— OBSERVER STAFF

LONGBOAT HAS ... 0.0882%

Of students in Sarasota and Manatee county schools, combined. In Sarasota County, Longboat has 39 students who attend public schools, and in Manatee County, it has 42 students enrolled in the district.

LONGBOAT PROVIDES ...

$49.34M

In local revenue for Sarasota and Manatee counties, combined. Longboaters pay $17.05 million in Manatee County and $32.29 million for Sarasota County, which is 6.7% of the total local funding for those two districts.

BY COMPARISON ...

$19.85M

The total projected for Longboat residents to pay in town property taxes for FY 2024. The town’s general fund revenues are $21.31 million, which means residents contribute nearly double to the schools what they do to the town.

TRUTH IN MILLAGE

For the FY2024 proposed budget, the schools tax rates are 6.18 mills for Sarasota County and 6.421 mills for Manatee County. A mill equals $1 of tax for every $1,000 of assessed property value. Despite the reduction in tax rates, the amount of tax revenue has risen with rising property values.

gigi SILVERBERG

BY THE NUMBERS

$609,127

Price per pupil, if the total Longboat property owners pay in school taxes is divided by the number of students on the Key.

$9,185

State funding per student for Sarasota County in FY2022-23,

3,515

Students that could be funded in Sarasota County by Longboaters’ property taxes in that county in FY2022-23.

6.522

The total school tax rate for Manatee County. It has fallen over the last 20 years from 8.296 in 2004 to 6.421 proposed for FY2024 as property values have risen.

$47.83M

Food service budget for Manatee County schools in FY2024.

34.6%

Amount of Sarasota County Schools’ $1.55 billion budget that comes from property taxes.

$14.95M

Cost of adding 30 minutes to the school day in Sarasota County in FY2024. Funded by the 1-mill referendum in 2022, which Longboat voters overwhelmingly supported.

The stillness of electric

weighs about 37 pounds, which is lightweight compared to gas-powered motors.

Kolodzieski demonstrated how it can be taken apart in under a minute. This makes it easily transferable to other vessels, like the inflatable Zodiacs he also sells.

Ed Kolodzieski described the Duffy boat as a “luxurious, floating living room,” where the typical, noisy aspects of other boats are removed.

But despite the potential appeal of Duffy boats, Kolodzieski said there may only be two in use around Longboat Key, aside from the ones in his shop.

“There isn’t high demand for electric boats because there isn’t much awareness,” he said.

Out on the water, Capt. Nic Cunninghame Graham showed how easy the 22-foot boat is to maneuver, with a steering wheel and a throttle. Spinning the wheel all the way left and then pushing the throttle forward allows the boat to turn sharper than most others on the water.

Kolodzieski said the boat is perfect for enjoying nature quietly.

“The only sound you’re going to hear is the music or the water,” Kolodzieski said.

Going 6 miles an hour, the boat can run for about 12 hours before needing to be plugged into any common three-pronged outlet to charge the 16 batteries stored in the keel.

“If you can plug in a hair dryer, you can plug in a boat,” Kolodzieski said.

Aside from saving on the cost of gas and the benefit of a quiet ride, Kolodzieski said the electric boats he sells are low maintenance.

“The pain-in-the-butt aspects of boating really aren’t there,” Kolodzieski said.

Like any boat, the electric Duffy boats should be rinsed with freshwater after being on the water, but unlike boats with gas-powered engines, the engine doesn’t need to be flushed and it doesn’t need to be filled with gas before each use.

In the showroom of the Whitney Beach Plaza Ultra-Duffy shop, there’s a Torqeedo motor on display, in a deep tank of water. The motor

The Zodiacs are much smaller, only able to hold about two or three people. They’re more of a transporter, Kolodzieski said. He imagines people using these small boats to travel to and from waterfront restaurants, like Mar Vista.

Growing up around Tampa Bay, Kolodzieski was always interested in the water and boating. He moved to Longboat Key in 2010 and has been operating the Ultra-Duffy business since 2020. He currently opens for appointments only, giving him more one-on-one time for consultation and education about the electric boats and motors he has available.

Aside from the boats seen at his shop, Kolodzieski said not many other electric boats can be seen on the waters of Longboat Key. Kolodzieski said most people in Florida probably don’t know that electric boats like this existed, but electric Duffy boats have been manufactured since 1970.

According to Kolodzieski and the Ultra-Duffy website, all electric Duffy boats are made in Adelanto, California. Not too far from Adelanto is Newport Beach, where there are more than 3,500 Duffy electric boats.  With more marketing and awareness, Kolodzieski hopes that Longboat can catch up to Newport Beach.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

A local boat retailer highlights the benefits of electric boats, aka ‘floating living rooms.’

Capt. Nic Cunninghame Graham controls the “highly maneuverable” Duffy Sun Cruiser 22.

Photos by Carter Weinhofer

The view from a Duffy electric boat.

Applied science

A new sign directs people to an app to contribute to Quick Point preserve’s biodiversity survey.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

Visitors to Longboat Key’s Quick Point Nature Preserve can now do more than just admire the area’s plant and animal life — they can contribute to a biodiversity survey.

A new sign was installed on Aug. 20 at the park, part of a project that was spearheaded by David Glosser. The project was a collaboration of members of the spring 2023 Florida Master Naturalist Program.

“The class didn’t just end for me, I took the ball and freaking ran with it,” Glosser said.

Glosser said he’s always identified as a naturalist, with a background in geology and environmental science before switching to the horticulture business in his mid-30s. This April, Glosser was a part of a Master Naturalist class that included multiple field trips to nature spots in the area, such as Robinson Preserve and Quick Point Nature Preserve.

During the field trip to Quick Point, Glosser was intrigued by another Master Naturalist classmate who was using the free iNaturalist app.

After seeing the app in action, Glosser began exploring the app and said he was amazed at the biodiversity surveys he could look at from all around the world.

This inspired an idea. The class needed to do a project for the course, so Glosser threw out the idea of doing a biodiversity survey of Quick

Point using the iNaturalist app. The idea stuck.

The group consisted of Glosser, Ingrid Deckman, Mark Briefman, Danny Enriquez and Rob Cybulski. The Master Naturalist course instructor was Jason Robertshaw, project manager at Mote Marine Laboratory.

This project eventually led to the broader idea of creating a permanent “location” for Quick Point on the iNaturalist app so that others who visit the park can add to the survey.

Glosser took charge of getting the town of Longboat Key’s approval for a sign in the park, while everyone in the group contributed financially to the project. After three months of working with town officials, Glosser was able to put the sign into the ground.

USING THE iNATURALIST APP

On the sign at Quick Point Nature Preserve, visitors can scan a QR code that takes users to a webpage for the park’s iNaturalist location. With the app, an observer unfamiliar with a species can post a picture of it to the site’s location, which can then be specified by an identifier. As of Aug. 27, there have been:

n 694 observations

n 209 species

n 301 identifiers

n 81 observers

Courtesy photo

The QR code on the new sign at Quick Point Nature Preserve on Longboat Key takes people to the site’s location on the free iNaturalist app.

LONGBOAT

Idalia cannot be ignored

For native Floridians, it’s easy to get jaded and to brush off another hurricane as ‘no big deal.’ But coming off last year’s devastating Hurricane Ian, it’s no time to be complacent.

Here we go again. Our first storm of the season, Tropical Storm Idalia, is expected to make landfall in Florida on Wednesday, Aug. 30 as a Category 3 hurricane.

By 9 a.m. Monday, the Longboat Key Mobil gas station was packed with residents filling up their gas tanks. Shortly after noon, Sarasota County parents got word that schools would be closed on Tuesday and Wednesday to prepare to serve as evacuation centers.

While Sarasota-Manatee is not in the direct path of Idalia, sometimes the effects of landfall north of our area can create equally as bad storm surges and flooding, especially on the northern end of Longboat Key. Nearly 11 months to the day (Hurricane Ian made landfall in Cayo Costa on Sept. 28, 2022), we must not forget lessons learned from that storm.

Before we recall some important tips to stay safe during this storm and those that may follow during the 2023 hurricane season, rest assured that we will be here to provide you news and information before, during and after the storm has passed.

First of all, you may be receiving your print copy a day early or perhaps a day later than your normal print delivery. Our weekly print editions are produced by the Villages Media Group, which is located just northwest of Orlando and east of Cedar Key, where Idalia plans to make landfall. To ensure their staff’s safety and that they have power to run the printing press, we’ve moved our deadlines up a day to get the print editions of the Longboat and East County Observers to you earlier.

Next comes the safety of our delivery drivers. Our drivers need to stay off the roads until conditions are safe, which means your Sarasota Observer will possibly arrive later on Friday. During the storm, stay informed on the latest news on YourObserver.com, which will provide you breaking news and information up to the minute. We will also be sharing this information on social media. Follow us on Facebook @Your Observer. And, in the event that print distribution is changed in the future due to storms, our e-Newspaper app will always have this week’s editions right on

time. Visit YourObserver.com/ Subscribe to learn more.

Lastly, because humans have short memories when it comes to unpleasant things, with the help of Coldwell Banker Realtor and Bird

Key resident Roger Pettingell, here is a refresher on our top takeaways from Hurricane Ian for staying safe this season:

■ Gas: Fill up your car with gas and charge your electric vehicles up to 100%. And fill up multiple gas cans for generators. When a storm makes landfall north of our area, it may affect supply chain issues, making gas scarce days after the storm has passed.

■ Generators: If you have a generator, make sure you test it before the storm. Don’t wait to turn it on for the first time after the storm is over.

■ Water: It’s not about getting thirsty and having water bottles on hand to drink. You’re really talking about what happens when your water gets shut off. You should fill up your bathtubs and all the vessels you have when your water is running, so you have it on hand when your water is turned off. This is especially important for barrier island residents, whose running water was turned off for two to three days during Hurricane Ian.

■ Cars: When storm surge is a threat, a critical lesson we learned is to park your cars on a high level of a parking garage. If you’re out of town, make sure your keys are somewhere someone can access them.

■ Hotel: Pre-book a hotel in Evacuation Zone C or higher. Also, look for a hotel that has been built in the past five years, has a

generator and is up to hurricane codes.

■ Power: Pettingell left his front door light on before evacuating Bird Key during Ian. He used his Ring doorbell app to check and see when his power came back on. The Ring doorbell is battery operated, so put in fresh batteries or fully charge it before you leave.

■ Insurance: Check with your insurance agent to make sure you’re adequately insured. Don’t wait until the last minute to do a walk around with a smartphone to video what the contents of your home are if you do have to make an insurance claim. Create a family Dropbox with all of your important documents scanned so you can access them on your phone so you’re not running around looking for insurance papers.

■ Evacuation plan: When making your evacuation plan, keep in mind that the cone of uncertainty is just that, it’s uncertain. You may want to have a couple of places available to evacuate to, for example, out in east in Sarasota, farther east in Orlando or even up and out of the state.

This morning, I asked my husband, Pat Robinson, deputy city manager and public safety administrator of the city of Sarasota, what was the most important thing I needed to do to prepare for this storm. He replied, “Fill up your gas tank.” So, just like all those smart Longboaters, I’m off to the nearest gas station. Stay safe.

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

Friedrich Hayek “Road to Serfdom,” 1944

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

File photo

An exit sign was blown onto the south end of Longboat Key beach after Hurricane Ian.

EMILY WALSH

Dean of GREEN

Pearl Homes, and his team started working on Hunters Point in Cortez, an Old Florida fishing village in west Manatee County off of Sarasota Bay, in 2017. The 86-home community, with homes ranging in price from $1.49 million to $1.89 million, generates more energy than it consumes.

It’s been a lot of research, design, development and starting over; not all of the model homes built were winners at first. Gobuty said the team had completed a home in the center that was eventually scrapped because it wasn’t big enough for what consumers sought. It was 600 square feet too small. The team revised calculations and had the home design in six months.

“It was hard,” he said. “None of this is easy. But it is gratifying.”

The concept is a house that runs entirely on solar panels that are connected to a Sonnen battery, which is roughly the size of a refrigerator. The house generates more power than is consumed, thus eliminating a utility bill.

The company built a model home in a research and design center in Palmetto to monitor its performance for 18 months. After three months of operation, Gobuty said the house

exceeded power generation. Now that people are living in the houses, that proof is tenfold.

“We can tell in one month we had 1,800 pounds of CO2 that we did not put out into the environment,” Gobuty said, adding that’s the same as the amount of air 14 trees can generate in a month. And according to the Arbor Day Foundation, it would take a year for 37.5 mature trees to absorb that much carbon dioxide from the environment.

Data collected that Gobuty provided shows that a net-positive Pearl Home exports 8,000 kilowatts per hour back to the grid. For perspective, one kilowatt per hour equals the amount of energy it takes to run a 1,000-watt appliance for an hour.

Gobuty, who refers to the U.S. Green Building Council as the “people who invented sustainability,” revels in the organization’s recognition, which is awarded to developers and builders committed to LEED and residential green building.

“For them to say we do a good job,” he said, “it means something.”

But just because Pearl Homes is a Power Builder doesn’t mean Gobuty’s work is finished. Really, he’s just getting started because now he’s focused on taking what he’s learned from creating a net-zero home and perfecting it. He wants to apply the concept to multifamily units.

“We’ve already proven that the model works,” he said. “It’s just applying it to different residential opportunities.”

Pearl Homes is working on a workforce housing community in downtown Bradenton named the Met that will begin leasing in the third quarter. Through the use of on-site battery storage technology and solar panels, the project will bring 200

sustainable units to the area, he said.

Then it’s onto the Met 2, also referred to as the Epic. The idea of this project is to create net-zero multifamily housing, but on less than an acre to prove sustainable living can be achieved within cities.

The two-bedroom units are being developed with battery and solar power on-site. The nearly 30 units should be underway in the next six months, Gobuty said.

MORE SUSTAINABILITY?

Earlier this year, Pearl Homes purchased 120 acres between Ellenton and Parrish in north Manatee County for 720 single-family rentals, which will be sustainable with market-rate rents, within a community called Ourlives.

While building these communities is a welcome addition to the area, Gobuty said the biggest contribution he can make is getting homebuilders on a national scale to get onboard.

“We’ve had builders come from everywhere to see how we do it,” he said, noting that local homebuilders aren’t buying into the concept — yet. “It’s not as expensive as you think. I believe this is the future of home owning.”

Gobuty said after tax credits, the solar and battery system adds about $58,000 to the cost of each home.

Over the last two months, Gobuty said he’s seen more positive movement among homebuilders who have come to talk to him about it.

At first, “they just look at you like you’re crazy,” he said.

Having results after the first quarter of people living in the homes has helped.

“So we’re not just saying the model worked,” he said. “We’re actually showing hard numbers.”

On Aug. 1, he met with a company that owns hotels and Amazon buildings that was interested in how it can apply the concept to its business.

“I really think that it only takes two or three big (companies) to blow this up into a standard,” he said. “I think we’re close.”

Drone footage of Hunters Point shows the progress that’s been made since the concept of the net-zero community began in 2017.

Bradenton-based Pearl Homes was named a LEED Power Builder for its work on a net-zero community in Cortez.

“I really think that it only takes two or three big (companies) to blow this up into a standard. I think we’re close.”

— Marshall Gobuty, developer of net-zero homes

Courtesy photo

WM Valued Customer

There will be NO GARBAGE or RECYCLING collection service on Longboat Key on MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 4TH in observance of the Labor Day Holiday

Residents and Businesses regularly serviced on Monday will be serviced the following day.

Questions, please call WM at (941) 753-7591

Questions, please call WM at (941) 753-7591

COPS CORNER

FRIDAY, AUG. 18

WATER TROUBLES

6:02 p.m., 800 block of Spanish Drive South Citizen Assist: Longboat Key Police Department officers were dispatched to respond to a water main break. On the scene, an officer made contact with a foreman with Florida Power and Light. He had the situation under control. No further law enforcement assistance was needed.

ROWDY EVENING

11:15 p.m., 3000 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Noise Complaint: An officer responded to a late-night noise complaint. Upon arrival, the officer located the source of the noise and told the offender to shut things down for the night.

SATURDAY, AUG. 19

FALSE ALARM

6:04 a.m., 500 block of Putting Green Lane Suspicious Incident: Multiple officers responded to a reported burglary in progress. On scene, the complainant stated there were beeps coming from an alarm upstairs. Officers searched the residence in question but saw no signs of people or forced entry.

SUNDAY, AUG. 20

SUSPICIOUS POOL PARTY

10:50 p.m., 6000 block of Longboat Drive South Noise Complaint: Longboat police officers investigated a report of a female screaming. On the scene, the officers heard some screaming and went on foot to find the source. The officers located a group in a private pool making the loud noises. A parent was advised of the noise ordinance and was issued a warning.

MONDAY, AUG. 21

ROAD BLOCK

11:57 a.m., 600 block of Norton Street

Citizen Assist: A report of illegal parking that blocked traffic prompted police response. The responding officer saw a company pickup truck and trailer parked mid-block, but there was enough room for the patrol vehicle to pass. A resident flagged down the officer

FRIDAY, AUG. 18

MISSING PERSONAL WATERCRAFT

8:58 p.m., Beer Can Island

Boat-Miscellaneous: A Longboat

Key Police Department marine patrol officer was asked to assist Longboat Key Fire Rescue after a report of a personal watercraft operator who hadn’t returned after dark. The two agencies met the caller at a boat ramp in Bradenton Beach. The watercraft operator was being towed to the dock. He had run out of fuel.

and said there had been three work trucks blocking the road, making it impossible for a trash collection service provider to pick up a neighbor’s garbage. The officer advised the resident to call trash collection service to let it know the road was clear. The workers were also told that in the future the trucks would need to be parked farther off the road.

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 23

EARLY ROAD TRIP

3:02 a.m., 6000 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive

Citizen Assist: A disabled motorcyclist’s insurance company called Longboat Key PD to assist. Officers were able to locate the motorcyclist and help jumpstart the battery. He was sent on his way, heading northbound.

EARLY START

7:45 a.m., 500 block of Norton Street

Noise Complaint: An officer was dispatched to a noise complaint of construction occurring before 8 a.m., but the complainant was not on scene when the officer arrived. The officer met with the crew, which was unaware of the ordinance. The owner of the construction company was notified over the phone about the allowable hours of operation.

TRIBUTES

Ivan Lewis Kushen, of Highland Park, Illinois and Longboat Key, Florida, born August 10, 1935, passed away August 17, 2023.

Son of the late Genevieve and Arthur Kushen. Beloved husband of Ellen Jones Kushen for 21 years until her death in 1979. Cherished husband of Marilyn Kushen for the past 39 years.

The best father of Anne (Mitch) Macknin, Karen (Ed) Weil, Ali (Irv) Kagan, and Geoff Ruttenberg. The loved forever grandfather of Ellen (Max) McCarty, Lucy Behn, Charlie Weil, Rachel Weil, Sammy Kagan, Joey Kagan, and Benjamin Kagan. Great-grandfather of Asher McCarty. Dear brother of Richard (Arlene) Kushen and the late Barbara Kushen Dee, and brother-in-law of Richard (the late Jayne) Jones. Loving cousin and uncle to many. Lifelong devoted friend of countless people across the country.

Ivan was a proud University of Michigan graduate and ZBT fraternity brother. He joined the family furniture company, Kushen Brothers Furniture, out of college and later became a leading sales representative of Schnadig International Furniture.

Long-suffering White Sox and Bears fan, offset by the perennial powerhouse Wolverines football squad. Fast walker, fisherman, fun-loving friend, and grillmaster,

Getting to know you, again

The Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce held its monthly Networking

At Noon luncheon on Aug. 24 at Lazy Lobster.

Andrew Vac, real estate consultant and broker, hosted the event, along with Gail Loefgren, chamber president. Vac said it was a great turnout for a month that is usually slow around the Key.

This month, the chamber welcomed to the group one new member and got to know a few prospective members.

Ivan had a sharp wit, an infectious laugh, a boundless loyalty to his family and friends, and an unwavering patriotism. His strength, wisdom, humor, and smile will be remembered forever. Services have been held. Memorial contributions may be made to Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee (https://jfedsrq.org/waysto-give/donor-programs/), Anti-Defamation League (https://www.adl.org/), and Chicago Lighthouse (https:// chicagolighthouse.org/).

Isabelle Segal Roges, who has a window treatment business in Bradenton, joined this week after attending the last Networking At Noon. Leslie Johnson of Teasdale Fenton Restoration, and Spencer Ohleyer, of Community Cable Consultants, are prospective members. Liz Yerkers, longtime member of the chamber, brought Maritza Rocha, who will be buying her business, Longboat Massage.

This luncheon was Loefgren’s first chamber event in months. The retiring president has been coordinating chamber business from home since she has been recovering from back and knee replacement surgery.

Her first day back in the chamber office was Aug. 22. She said interviews for her replacement had begun this week. Once the board has narrowed down the options, Loefgren will share her input on who would best fit the position.

Lazy Lobster offered a choice of fried chicken salad, Atlantic cod or a salmon BLT. Michael Garey, co-owner of Lazy Lobster, brought everyone in attendance a scoop of black raspberry ice cream from Tyler’s Ice Cream next door.

After mingling and introductions, Kelly Spring, sales and marketing representative for ServPro, led the traditional raffle with drop-by gifts chamber members donate from their businesses.

With its 50/50 draw, the chamber raised $180 thanks to contributions from members in attendance. Becky Smith won $90 in the draw and the rest will be donated to Manatee Children’s Services.

— PETRA RIVERA

THE SUN SHINES BRIGHTER

on the bay.

The calming quiet of the water. The refreshing warmth of the Florida sun. This is your slice of paradise. Picture yourself here, ideally situated on Sarasota Bay at Plymouth Harbor.

With so much to explore and experience so close to Downtown Sarasota, St. Armands Circle and beyond, you’re never far from a new adventure.

Imagine a home where there is less reason to hurry or worry and more occasions to breathe, laugh, and drink it all in.

Learn more about Plymouth Harbor on Sarasota Bay by calling (941) 200-0254 or visiting plymouthharbor.org.

409483-1

Ivan Lewis Kushen 1935-2023

Fast walker, fisherman, funloving friend, and grillmaster, Ivan had a sharp wit, an infectious laugh, a boundless loyalty to his family and friends, and an unwavering patriotism.

Photos by Petra Rivera

Andrew Vac moderates introductions at Networking at Noon.

Maritza Rocha, Irina Bronstein and Liz Yerkers

Chamber members mingle after Networking at Noon on Aug. 24.

A+E INSIDE:

< SETTING SAIL IN SARASOTA: Check out the 75th Annual Labor Day Regatta. 15

X MARKS THE SPOT: Urbanite pushes the envelope in its 10th season. 14>

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

FLYING SOLO AT URBANITE

Are you planning a new direction for Urbanite Theatre?

Urbanite Theatre makes its home in Sarasota’s urban core. Its flexible performance space seats about 65 people. Its fearless performances push the limits of live theater. That was Brendan Ragan and Summer Dawn Wallace’s goal when they founded the company in partnership with Harry Lipstein in 2014.

In the years that followed, Wallace and Ragan took the road less traveled as Urbanite’s co-artistic directors — and never played it safe. They staged edgy, risky, contemporary plays like “Chicken Shop,” “Isaac’s Eye” and “Woman Laughing Alone with Salad.”

Urbanite’s “Modern Works Festival” gave a voice to emerging female playwrights. Urbanite’s internships incubated a full spectrum of theatrical talents. The troupe’s dual commitment to art and artists paid off with outstanding theater on stage and invaluable theatrical experience off stage.

Thanks to that winning combination, Urbanite Theatre carved out a niche for itself in Sarasota’s fiercely competitive live theater scene. Keeping that niche meant a lot of hard work for both artistic directors. Wallace’s job got even harder last spring when Ragan accepted a position as artistic director at Metropolis Performing Arts Centre in the Chicago region.

Before he resigned, Wallace had been Urbanite’s co-artistic director for nearly a decade. Now, Wallace is Urbanite’s artistic director — period. What does she have in mind for the company? Here’s what she told us.

Yes and no. Urbanite’s always taken new directions. That’s baked in our DNA. Contemporary theater’s always changing — and we change with it. That’s been our goal from day one.

I did an exit interview with Brendan in March.  I asked him if Urbanite had achieved its original goals. His answer was “yes.” Do you agree?

Definitely. Creating a “black box” space for contemporary theater was what we wanted, and that’s what we did. But it’s not a one-anddone kind of thing. By definition, contemporary theater is a moving target. A play that was edgy in 2014 can still have power. But what’s edgy in 2023? That’s what Urbanite will be going for. And it’s the raison d’être of our 10th season.

It sounds like quite a ride. There’s a ghost story rising from the South’s bloody past; a comedy about rescue dogs and classicism; a creative writing lesson that goes beyond words; and Shakespeare’s smarter sister. Is there a common thread tying these plays together?

The power of human resilience is the only common thread — but that wasn’t the basis of our play selections. Our primary focus was championing new work and artistfirst storytelling. We only noticed the shared theme after we put the season together.

“By Jove! These plays share a common theme!”

Exactly. (laughs) Our 10th season isn’t about “theme.” It’s about showcasing Urbanite’s commitment to new play development and supporting up-and-coming playwrights like Katie Bender, Brenda Withers, Terry Guest and Adam Rapp.  This season, we’ll be celebrating all the talents we’ve partnered with. That’s not limited to writers.

Over the last 10 years, Urbanite has also nurtured directors, actors, sound and lighting designers — you name it. We’ve put so many young apprentices and interns on the path.

In other words, Urbanite’s live theater isn’t a high-end consumer product. You’re not just putting on shows; you’re supporting the talents who make the shows possible. For some creatives, you’re the first rung on the ladder of lifetime theatrical careers. That’s the Urbanite stamp. And the whole point of our intern program. So many outstanding artists got their start here.

I can tell you’re proud of that accomplishment. I am. But it’s bittersweet. It means letting go. We nurture young talent and get them ready for their next big adventure. They cut their teeth working here at Urbanite. When they move on, it’s hard for me. I know I’ll have to start from scratch again — and find more young talent to mentor. It’s a never-ending cycle, but more than worth it.

And another moving target. That’s true. But I think we’re moving in the right direction. In the 10 years of Urbanite’s existence, we’ve evolved to be an incubator — and not just on the creative talent and development side. We also incubate audience involvement. “Judith” is a perfect example of that.

How so?

Well, it’s a one-person show — and audience feedback is the heartbeat of any solo show. When an actor

like Livy Scanlon takes the stage, she’s constantly in tune with what’s working and what isn’t. So, if you’re sitting in the audience, your reactions help shape her performance. You’re not just watching a show — you’re more like Livy’s scene partner. Like it or not, you’ll be a participant.

So, at the multiplex, you’re a passive spectator munching popcorn. At Urbanite Theatre, you’re part of the creative process. That’s an exciting idea. Yes, it is. And audience participation is a constant at Urbanite. We premiere a lot of new plays. Before that, we’ll do readings in the workshop process. Audience talkbacks happen at every phase of the development process. It’s priceless information to the playwright. And they’re a great way to engage our audience.

MARTY FUGATE CONTRIBUTOR

Summer Dawn Wallace talks about her singular vision for Sarasota’s ‘black box’ theater.

Courtesy photo

After sharing the artistic director role with Brendan Ragan for 10 years, Summer Dawn Wallace is running the show on her own at Sarasota’s edgy Urbanite Theatre.

X marks the spot

MARTY FUGATE CONTRIBUTOR

X marks the spot for pirates’ buried treasure and math’s unknown quantities.

Both definitions apply to the plays of Urbanite Theatre’s “Season X.”

With one exception, the plays in the “black box” theater’s 10th season offer a variety of mousetraps, reversals, swerves and surprise endings. Any plot summary would ruin the ride. We’ll try to say something without saying too much. Listen up.

“In the beginning was the Word.” Our species in particular just can’t shut up. Human lives are filled with arguments, agreements, dissensions, debates, insinuations and implied contracts that are never spelled out.

Trust is the key conditional clause in these contracts. If a friend says, “Close your eyes for a big surprise,” it’s understood he won’t punch you in the face. It happens — and worse things happen too.

Adam Rapp’s “The Sound Inside” revolves around the private lessons a writing professor gives her student. Their words are all about words. Some words become deeds. Some shouldn’t. What do their words become? I have no idea — and that scares the hell out of me. (Directed by Kristin Clippard. Oct. 20 – Dec. 3.)

Katie Bender’s “Judith” is the one Urbanite play I can talk about. No trapdoor, no twist ending. Shakespeare’s sister, Judith, turns out to be a better writer than the Bard. That’s how the story goes — and it’s no big surprise. When Judith’s brother gets in trouble with the law, she dons fake facial hair and men’s clothing and bails her big bro out.

Londoners think Judith’s a powerful man in the Elizabethan theater community — and give her R-E-SP-E-C-T. She likes it — and doesn’t want to go back to the second-class status of women in her time.

Fun fact: Bender got the idea from Virginia Woolf. That author had wondered, “Let me imagine, since facts are so hard to come by, what would have happened had Shakespeare had a wonderfully gifted sister, called Judith, let us say.” Bender belatedly answered that question with her one-woman play starring

Urbanite

FROM PAGE 13

How do you plan to expand the Urbanite audience?

By any means necessary. If there’s a way to make theater more accessible, we’ll do it! We’re planning our first ASL (American Sign Language) performance. We’ll be creating a parents’ night out with a sitting service (for their kids).

Digital marketing has always been our strong point. We’ll build on that strength with the market oppor-

IF YOU GO

URBANITE SEASON ‘X’

Where: 1487 Second St., Sarasota

When: Oct. 20 to June 30, 2024

Tickets: $28-$42

Info: Call 321-1397 or visit UrbaniteTheatre.com.

Olivia “Livy” Scanlon. (Directed by Brendon Fox. Jan. 5 – Feb. 18.)

Brenda Withers’ “Westminster” is a play about a rescue dog and the intricacies of classism. When dogs cross boundaries with humans, “Bad dog” is the typical human response. When human friends cross boundaries with each other, communication is far more difficult.

When is “friendly” banter a notso-friendly way of putting somebody in their place? If you don’t know by now, you’re obviously a moron, and I’ll stop wasting my time. (Just kidding.) The play’s “titular dog” exists in the mind’s eye and doesn’t compete with the actors on stage. This isn’t a play about a dog. Or is it? (Directed by Summer Wallace. March 22 – April 28.)

Terry Guest rattled cages and yanked chains with his genderbending “Wake of a Dead Drag Queen.” His “Oak” enters far more disturbing territory. This play feels a little like “To Kill a Mockingbird,” a little like “Night of the Hunter” and far too much like the Confederate South’s bloody, bloody legacy.

But it’s not all nightmare. There’s also a heaping helping of cute little rascals with nicknames like “Suga,” “Big Man” and “Pickle.” “Oak” is both a ghost story and a children’s story. The kids in Guest’s Southern gothic horror show believe in the ghost. Kids are smart. (Directed by Mikael Burke. May 31 – June 30.)

tunities of print media. We’ll also keep making real-world connections. We’ll be physically present at events like farmers markets and festivals. We’ll also network with other nonprofits, form partnerships and do everything we can to get new people in the door.

“If you stage it, the audience will come” is not Urbanite’s model? No. We’re going to get our name out there and make more community connections. We’ll be coming to you. And if you’ve got something to say, we’ll listen.

Courtesy photo

Olivia “Liv”

Scanlon stars as Shakespeare’s sister in “Judith” at Urbanite Theatre from Jan. 5 to Feb. 18, 2024.

New Sarasota County leaders meet the community

MONICA ROMAN GAGNIER ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

There’s been a changing of the guard at the organizations that support tourism, arts and economic development in Sarasota County.

On Aug. 22, the new leaders of Visit Sarasota County, the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County and the Economic Development Corp. of Sarasota County held a panel discussion at CMX CinéBistro Siesta Key moderated by Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon.

The event gave each of the three new leaders the chance to introduce themselves and their organization in three minutes or less.

Joining Gordon at the podium were incoming Visit Sarasota County President and CEO Erin Duggan, Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County President and CEO Brian Hersch and Economic Development Corp. of Sarasota County President and CEO Erin Silk.

In some cases, the new leaders are filling the shoes of longtime heads of their respective organizations. When Duggan officially steps into her new job at Visit Sarasota County in September, she will replace Virginia J. Haley, who is retiring after 24 years at the helm of VSC.

Duggan has held a variety of roles at the tourism organization since 2006 and is credited with creating the successful Savor Sarasota Restaurant Week.

In June, Hersch succeeded Jim Shirley, who took the helm as executive director of the organization formerly known as the Arts Council in 2009.

Hersch spent more than 20 years in nonprofit arts administration. Prior to joining the Alliance, Hersch led Sarasota County Public Schools’ strategic approach to arts education.

At the EDC, Silk in June succeeded Lisa Krouse, who retired after leading the agency since August 2021. Silk joined the EDC in April 2019 and was most recently chief operations officer.

At the panel discussion, Duggan, Hersch and Silk all acknowledged the contributions of their predecessors to the growth of tourism, the arts and new business in Sarasota while also acknowledging the town’s considerable built-in attractions, from beautiful beaches to friendly, laidback charm.

Duggan noted that all three of the groups represented on the podium report to Sarasota County government. She said that in fiscal 2023, VSC had an operating budget of $5.2 million, which will increase to $8.5 million next year.

Sarasota County’s tourist development tax of 6% generates more than $42 million a year, with the majority (23%) going to beach replenishment. The arts receives 8% of the total.

VSC works to attract visitors to Sarasota County year-round, Duggan said, and divides arrivals into three categories — those who are here for leisure, to participate in sports and for meetings.

She applauded the county’s approval of an indoor sports complex at Nathan Benderson Park. In May 2022, county commissioners unanimously approved devoting $20 million toward a new boathouse and a 100,000-square-foot event center on the second floor.

The Arts Alliance, which administers the tourist tax dollars allocated to the arts, has more than 200 arts organizations on its rolls, Hersch said, and that doesn’t include hundreds of individual artists. Sarasota is “Florida’s Cultural Coast,” he said.  Hersch believes the Alliance can help leverage the arts to promote health and wellness in the community, but he also says the organization’s goal is to support the well-being of artists who live here.

In her remarks, Silk noted the EDC’s mission is to promote a diversified Sarasota area economy that protects “against economic volatility resulting from pandemic, red tide and hurricanes.”

Her group targets CEOs on vacation in Sarasota who might consider relocating or expanding their company’s operations here. “Chicago is a big area where we market” the benefits of moving to Sarasota, Silk said.

Since 2019, the EDC reckons its marketing efforts have been responsible for $108 million in new capital investment and $85 million in new annual payroll in Sarasota, she said. That was the year that the agency launched its “Work Where You Want to Live” to encourage job creation and remote work in Sarasota.

Both she and Duggan noted that after a frenzied recovery post-pandemic, spending and tourism remain strong but are continuing at more sustainable levels.

The experimental ‘black box’ theater takes daring risks in its 10th season.

Monica Roman Gagnier

Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County President and CEO Brian Hersch, incoming Visit Sarasota County President and CEO Erin Duggan and Economic Development Corp. of Sarasota County President and CEO Erin Silk

THIS WEEK

THURSDAY

‘JOHN PIRMAN: DIVING INTO NATURE’ 10 a.m. at Selby Gardens, 1534 Mound St.

$26

Visit Selby.org.

The artwork of Sarasota-based designer and illustrator John Pirman is displayed both inside Selby Gardens’ Museum of Botany & the Arts and outside throughout the bayfront gardens. The show includes Pirman’s signature Sarasota views as well as his earlier work from three decades as a freelance illustrator in New York. Runs through Sept. 17.

DIVAS THREE

7:30 p.m. at FST’s Court Cabaret, 1265 First St.

$18 and up

Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

Created by Nancy Allen Productions, three female vocalists present four decades of songs made famous by Aretha Franklin, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston and other women who have earned the coveted title of “Diva.” Runs through Sept. 17.

‘CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REMIXED!’

7:30 p.m. at FST’s Goldstein Cabaret, 1239 N. Palm Ave. $18 and up

Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

“The Jersey Tenors” and “The Surfer

OUR PICK

75TH ANNUAL LABOR DAY REGATTA

Hosted by the Sarasota Sailing Squadron, the Labor Day Regatta draws hundreds of sailors from 8 to 80 years old along with a thousand visitors. Activities include five race courses, a fish fry, refreshments and an awards ceremony.

IF YOU GO

When: 8 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 2.

Where: Sarasota Sailing Squadron, 1717

Ken Thompson Parkway

Tickets: Free

Info: SarasotaSailingSquadron.org

Boys” veteran Vaden Thurgood has created his own musical revue for FST’s summer cabaret series. The show, which features a rotating cast with three men (including Thurgood for at least a month) and a woman, follows the life of Creedence Clearwater Revival founder John Fogerty through hit songs such as “Proud Mary” and “Bad Moon Rising.” Runs through Oct. 22.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 1

MUSIC ON MAIN

6 p.m. at 8100 Lakewood Main St., Lakewood Ranch Free Visit LakewoodRanch.com.

Dance to the funky sounds of the Taylor Opie Band, as well as today’s hits played by a DJ. Wander the

2023 FALL FELINE FUN RUN!

Help

streets lined with food vendors, beer trucks and sponsor booths, as well as rides and kids’ activities. Chairs are welcome, but coolers are not. Dogs must be kept on a short leash. Overflow parking is available at the Lakewood Ranch Medical Center.

TUESDAY, SEPT. 5

GALLERY TALK ON ‘WORKING CONDITIONS’ PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT

11 a.m. at John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bayshore Road $30 ($5 plus museum admission of $25) Visit Ringling.org.

Celebrate Labor Day at The Ringling by examining photographs of labor and work with Christopher Jones, Stanton B. and Nancy W. Kaplan,

curator of Photography and Media Arts. The exhibit runs through March 3, 2024.

DON’T MISS

SUNCOAST COMPOSER FELLOWSHIP

PROGRAM CONCERT

Chamber music group ensembleNEWSRQ has teamed up with Soundbox Ventures for the Suncoast Composer Fellowship Program. The group is producing the first concert of the new residency program for six emerging composers and nine classical musicians. The ticket includes a pre-concert lecture.

IF YOU GO

When: 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 5

Where: at First Congregational Church, 1031 S. Euclid Ave.

Tickets: $25

Info: ENSRQ.org

YOUR NEIGHBORS

SAILING SQUADRON TIMELINE

Selected events from the history of the Sarasota Sailing Squadron:

Late 1930s: The squadron is formed by a group of young Sarasota men, partly as an extension of the Sarasota Yacht Club and partly for those unable to afford membership in SYS.

1942: The squadron becomes inactive with the onset of World War II, as many members leave to take part in the war.

1946: The squadron is reactivated under the local YMCA. It hosts its first Annual Labor Day Regatta, drawing more than 100 boats and 5,000 spectators.

1948: During the annual regatta, a ketch (a type of two-masted sailboat) called Bonnie Kaye, runs aground on a sand shoal and sinks. Its owner, Matthew Van Leeuwen, a World War II veteran who lived aboard the vessel and wore an artificial leg, survives by clinging to a buoy overnight. Squadron members and other sailors begin a fundraiser for Leeuwen.

1950: The fifth annual regatta is canceled due to strong winds and rains from Hurricane Easy, although the year is still counted toward the total of regattas.

1957: The city of Sarasota prepares to demolish the city pier, and the club plans a relocation to its current home of City Island. Contract negotiations with the squadron make the northeast corner of City Island available to boating groups. Members had formerly met in the commission chambers.

1958: Construction on the clubhouse begins.

1961: During the 16th annual regatta, a storm capsizes 55 boats.

1967: Planning for a

LEGACY ON THE BAY

The Sarasota Sailing Squadron Labor Day Regatta is the oldest of its type in the region, according to organizers.

IAN SWABY STAFF WRITER

As the public gathers on the shores of City Island to watch the Annual Labor Day Regatta, spectators can often be heard reminiscing about their childhood experiences in the event, which dates back to 1946, said Regatta Chair Dave Hillmyer.

Held by the Sarasota Sailing Squadron, the event, which the organization says is the oldest continually held regatta in the Southeast, on Sept. 2-3 will host competitors ranging from 8 to about 80 years old, during its 75th anniversary this year.

Canceled only three times in its history, the event maintains a steady popularity, drawing clubs from areas like St. Petersburg, Davis Islands in Tampa and more distant locations such as Jacksonville, and even some individuals from other states.

“Everybody just knows about this regatta,” Hillmyer said. “This is such a historic sailing venue.”

CALLING ALL SAILORS

While the regatta originally featured about 50% adults, the last few years have been youth-focused, with about 150 kids signed up out of 175 competitors this year, Hillmyer said.

IF YOU GO...

A dinner catered by Nancy’s BBQ will be held at the Sarasota Sailing Squadron’s facilities at 1717 Ken Thompson Parkway on Saturday, Sept. 2. To purchase a ticket for the event, open to both regatta participants and nonparticipants, visit RegattaNetwork.com.

He said the occasion, which involves four different race courses in the bay, as well as racing closer to shore for the youngest participants, holds particular importance for youth.

For some younger people, it’s the first regatta of the school season, while for other kids, it may be their first regatta ever.

“This is the first time that they get to put their skills to the test on the water,” he said. “It’s kind of a big deal.”

Dave Hillmyer and his wife, Donna Hillmyer, who have both been involved with the club since about age 10, are no strangers to youth sailing, but they’ve also had the chance to watch other participants enjoy an experience similar to their own.

“We watch these kids like we

follow them throughout their lives,” Donna Hillmyer said.

Yet the event excites adults as well. An inaugural sailing event, of sorts, for the fall season, it follows the relative lack of activity during the heat of summer, Dave Hillmyer said. What really makes the event special, said Hillmyer, is the number of volunteers it receives.

None of the individuals assisting with the event, which includes about 40 on the water and 100 on land, are paid, he said.

Volunteers will staff the 15 to 16 support powerboats and will also help on shore through activities like serving food and drinks, monitoring parking, or taking out trash.

He believes participants will have a pleasant experience out on the bay or at the squadron’s clubhouse on City Island, where it has leased the land from the city of Sarasota.

“Out in the middle of the bay, you don’t see a lot of boat traffic, so it’s really nice,” he said.

He said members have even camped out at the clubhouse site in the past.

“I think people find it very comfortable here because we have such a low-key atmosphere,” he said.

Although there are other Labor Day events, such as a Labor Day night race on Davis Islands, the Sarasota event holds a special meaning for the public, he said.

“Everybody knows if you say ‘the Labor Day Regatta’ in Florida, it means Sarasota Sailing Squadron.”

new clubhouse begins. Among the renovations are an additional wing, a new roof, and the relocation of the hoist.

1972: Member Lilly Kaighin arrives in Sarasota from Tampa. Shortly thereafter, she would persuade a group of six members to found the women’s sailing group “Sarasota Sailing and Sinking Society,” which quickly expanded in size and was later renamed to “Luffing Lassies.” The organization is still active today.

1976 to 1978: Amid slumping finances and attendance, the club enters a phase of relative inactivity, becoming primarily a storage facility for boats.

1978: Member Pat Murphy, who joined the club at age 13, accepts the role of commodore following his proposal to reinvigorate the club, which included restarting its youth sailing program and opening every Saturday and eventually every Sunday.

1980: The Sarasota Sailing Squadron incorporates as a nonprofit.

1984: Susan Pether is elected as the first and only woman commodore in the history of the squadron. She bans alcohol at board meetings, a measure which increases the productivity of discussions.

1985: The 40th Annual Labor Day Regatta is canceled due to Hurricane Elena.

2003: Chris Branning is nominated as the club’s top youth sailor of the year. The nomination allows him to compete in the ISAF Youth World Championships and the U.S. National High School Singlehanded Championships. He goes on to race in over 50 major races. In 2007, he serves as navigator of a Disney-sponsored team aboard the 52-foot racer Morning Light and is featured in the 2008 documentary “Morning Light.”

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Café L’Europe: 50 years and counting

PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER

This season at Café L’Europe marks the 50th anniversary of the restaurant’s opening.

“There’s a lot of love for this restaurant from the community and families who have dined here for generations,” said Eleni Sokos, director of brand strategy for Oysters Rock Hospitality, which represents the café. “Grandparents come here with their grandkids. This is where they had their first date. Most of the locals had their first experience of fine dining at Café (L’Europe).”

The restaurant recently finished the second stage of renovations for a complete remodel of the iconic St. Armands Circle eatery. While designing for the future, the staff couldn’t help but reminisce about its rich history.

Titus Letschert and Norbert Goldner opened Café L’Europe on Jan. 21, 1973.

The two founders met while working in Manhattan at a restaurant called Sign of the Dove. Letschert moved to Sarasota in 1971 because the owner of The Colony Beach & Tennis Resort, Dr. Murray “Murf” Klauber, recruited him to work at his restaurant.

Goldner moved to Sarasota to fulfill a dream of opening a restaurant alongside Letschert. They bought the popular Colombi’s Italian Restaurant on the Circle and renovated it themselves. The Café L’Europe name and concept were inspired by the ambiance of the De L’Europe Hotel in Amsterdam and the design of the Sign of The Dove restaurant.

The building was originally built in 1926 to hold the real estate office of John Ringling, then housed the Cocoanut Palms restaurant in the 1950s before becoming Colombi’s.

Goldner opened his own Café L’Europe in Palm Beach in 1980, while Letschert continued to head the Café L’Europe in Sarasota. Around this time, the “Titus Letschert University” started, as Michael Garey, pro-

prietor of Lazy Lobster, likes to call it.

“Dr. Klauber and Titus literally created their own competition with all the people that went on to open restaurants,” said Garey. “These restaurants were either owned or run by people that worked for Dr. Klauber of The Colony or Titus or both. We used to say when we would get together, ‘We could take our top 20 restaurants, and take Tampa restaurants on straight up.’”

Some of the area’s top restaurant titans worked at Café L’Europe back in the day. This list includes Harry Christensen of Harry’s Continental Kitchens, J.P. Knaggs of Bijou Café, Ray Arpke of Euphemia Haye, Garey and Bob Fracalossy of Lazy Lobster. Garey said Letschert was one of the biggest influences on his life and not a day goes by without him or Fracalossy referencing Letschert.

“Norbert and Titus, they work their keisters off,” said John Horne, who is a current co-proprietor of Café L’Europe along with his wife, Amanda. “Everybody that worked here, that’s what permeated through to them, that hard work and hospitality that came from Titus. And we want to continue that. We want people to know that Titus is still influencing people here.”

The Hornes purchased Café L’Europe in February 2020. Staff emphasized the positive impact that they have on the restaurant. Sokos compared John Horne to both Letschert and Ringling for their big and dedicated personalities.

“We have a tradition that anyone who’s been with the company for five years or more is invited on a fun outing with the staff,” said Sokos.

“Just on Monday, we went to the bowling alley. We did a bunch of fun contests, like blindfolded bowling, if you’re right-handed bowl with your left hand, and the best one was you had to hold a tray of water bottles and bowl. Those are the types of cultural things that John really prioritizes.

Just a few of the ways that we kind of make sure that everybody feels like family around here.”

Sokos said that Horne is the chair of the board of directors for the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association. Horne uses his position to advocate for important matters that affect his employees such as affordable housing and minimum wage.

As Café L’Europe looks forward, its leadership wants to keep the strong values and foundation of the past with the twist of modern times. Phases one and two of their plan included renovating their private and semi-private dining areas while adding a new bar area with more seating. Plans for the last phase are still in development while the owners decide how to tackle the facade — the original and most iconic part of the building.

“We recognize that we have to make the experience a little bit more approachable to continue thriving for the next 50 years,” said Sokos.

“So there’s some hesitancy, but I think overall, we’ve navigated the transition pretty gracefully. The plan is for it to be a little bit more casual

WORSHIP directory

upfront. A little bit more inviting; things like wine flights and charcuterie boards and bites are going to be part of the menu. Then if you want the duck a l’orange and the escargot, the back of the restaurant is where you can still have that super elegant experience.”

For the 50th anniversary, Café L’Europe has planned a yearlong celebration of events. The Legacy Chef Wine Dinner series hosts local chefs who got their start at the restaurant to share their personal experiences of Café L’Europe. The restaurant also invites anyone who is celebrating a 50th birthday this year to do so at Café L’Europe and get a complimentary glass of Champagne with the purchase of a main course.

“We’re honored to be stewards of such a legacy,” said Horne. “Everybody has a memory within these walls and people come in and tell us, ‘This was my mom and dad’s favorite spot. I can remember the first time as a child; it’s the first time I wore high heels.’ Stuff like that. That’s what restaurants are about: creating memories. We want to always be Café, we want to keep Café going and we are going to have another 50 years of Café.”

am.

To learn more about our Temple and all our educational, cultural, and social programs, please call us. We’d be delighted to talk with you.

The St. Armands Circle restaurant has served the area for 50 years and trained many local restaurateurs.

Petra Rivera

Rogelio Lopez , Juraj Petry, Juan Carlos Buitrago, Eleni Sokos and Wolseley Rivera show the old and new of Cafe L’Europe.

Courtesy photo Titus Letschert and Norbert Goldner

“Everybody has a memory within these walls and people come in and tell us, ‘This was my mom and dad’s favorite spot. I can remember the first time as a child; it’s the first time I wore high heels.’ Stuff like that.”

— John Horne

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SOTA RESIDENCES & HOTEL

Set privately above the hotel, 35 spacious residences pair stylish city living with the luxury of serviced simplicity. An iconic modern design by the renowned Hoyt Architects of Sarasota is paired with innovative interiors by the visionary firm Andre Kikoski Architect from New York City. Flow-through residences feature airy, light-filled interiors and spacious terraces overlooking the downtown skyline and streetscape below. Residences from $1.8 million.

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Construction is underway on Golden Gate Point as the Gault Family Companies has officially broken ground on Peninsula Sarasota, a 23-unit luxury condominium development at 223 and 283 Golden Gate Point. Units in the two mid-rise towers are priced from $2.6 million. The three-bedroom floor plans, and three-bedroom with den floor plans range from 2,400 to more than 3,000 square feet.

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SATURDAY, SEPT. 2

BREAKFAST WITH THE SHARKS

8-9:30 a.m. at Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway. Cost is $36 for members; $40 for nonmembers.

Start your day with sharks before the aquarium opens to the public. A continental breakfast will be provid ed while guests learn about Mote’s resident sharks. Hear about the breakthrough shark research during a guided tour of the aquarium. Buy tickets online at Mote.org/Experi ences.

RECURRING EVENTS

MONDAYS STRETCH AND STRENGTHEN

From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. This class is mostly seated and great for all fitness levels. Focus is on strength training and flexibility for balance. Suzy Brenner leads the class. Fee is $15. Walk-ins welcome. Call 3836493.

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND SATURDAYS

LORD’S WAREHOUSE THRIFT STORE

The thrift store will be closed for the month of September. Call 383-4738.

TUESDAYS AND FRIDAYS

LONGBOAT LIBRARY

From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesdays and Fridays. 555 Bay Isles Road. Call 383-2011.

TUESDAYS QI GONG

From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Qi gong is a mind-body-spirit practice designed to improve mental and physical health. Class is outdoors, weather permitting. Cost is $15. Walk-ins welcome. Call 383-6493.

YOGA

From 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Debby Debile of Feel Good Yoga & Massage leads a gentle yoga class that can be done on a mat or in a chair. Cost is $15; free for members. Call 383-6493.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 3

LIVE MUSIC BY ROSS DAVID

From 1-4 p.m. at Lido Beach Bar and Grill, 400 Benjamin Drive. Stop by on your beach day to hear the musical performance of Ross David. He performs

“You

experienced players. To check availability at the tables, email Amy@ TheParadiseCenter.org.

WEDNESDAYS BEGINNER TAI CHI

From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Class is outdoors, weather permitting. Cost is $15. Walk-ins welcome. Call 3836493.

MARIACHI MUSIC

From 5:30-8:30 p.m. at La Villa Mexican Grill, 5610 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Enjoy dinner and a serenade by Mariachi Contemporaneo. Call 383-8033.

THURSDAYS KIWANIS CLUB OF LONGBOAT

KEY

At 8:30 a.m. at Lazy Lobster, 5350 Gulf of Mexico Drive. This service organization meets every first and third Thursday of the month for breakfast and a speaker. Breakfast is $15. Email Lynn Larson at LynnLarson@ comcast.net to register.

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Reid Murphy Presents

John Ringling Estates home tops sales at $3.45M

ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR

Ahome in John Ringling Estates tops all transactions in this week’s real estate. KB Invictus LLC sold the home at 352 N. Washington Drive to Andrew and Jennifer Gater, of Ontario, for $3.45 million. Built in 1949, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,573 square feet of living area. It sold for $175,000 in 1986.

LIDO George Andrew Capps and Lindsey Capps sold their home at 1143 Morningside Place to Jon and Elizabeth Tilkemeier, of Sarasota, for $3.3 million. Built in 1959, it has four bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,013 square feet of living area. It sold for $1,115,500 in 2014.

PARK RESIDENCES OF LIDO KEY

Ilya Sinyak and Anna Sinyak, trustees, of Gilford, New Hampshire, sold the Unit E206 condominium at 159 Taft Drive to Clements Ripley and Ruth Gray Stone, of Sarasota, for $2.45 million. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,228 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.42 million in 2017.

COUNTRY CLUB SHORES Scio Southern LLC sold the home at 573 Outrigger Lane to American XXVIII LLC for $2.3 million. Built in 1964, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,120 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.7 million in 2006.

SEAPLACE

William Alan Wilson and Molly Johnson Wilson, trustees, of Pepperell, Massachusetts, sold the Unit M2-409A condominium at 1945 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Steven and Beverly Hornick, of Atlanta, for $1.05 million. Built in 1978, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,265 square feet of living area. It sold for $563,000 in 2014.

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

AUGUST 14-18

PELICAN HARBOUR AND BEACH

CLUB

Bruce Robbins, Nancy Nobis and Jeffrey Robbins, of Boston, sold their Unit G-2 condominium at 4234 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Christopher and Laurel Stevens and Morgan Stearns, of Fort Collins, Colorado, for $950,000. Built in 1973, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,636 square feet of living area. It sold for $160,000 in 1981.

HARBOUR OAKS AT LONGBOAT

KEY CLUB

James and Margaret Theiss, trustees, of Cincinnati, sold the Unit 1004 condominium at 2115 Harbourside Drive to JSJ Realty Group LLC for $889,000. Built in 1984, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,906 square feet of living area. It sold for $340,000 in 2016.

TOP BUILDING PERMITS

These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of Aug. 18 - 25 in order of dollar amounts.

LONGBOAT KEY

BEACHPLACE Harry Eisenberg, trustee, sold the Unit 105 condominium at 1125 Gulf of Mexico Drive to 1125 GMD 3105 LLC for $800,000. Built in 1979, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,819 square feet of living area. It sold for $320,000 in 1997.

BAYPORT BEACH AND TENNIS

CLUB Joseph Ernest Orzano, of Milan, Italy, sold his Unit 732 condominium at 732 Bayport Way to Subath Kamalasan, of Longboat Key, for $795,000. Built in 1983, it has two

bedrooms, two baths and 1,456 square feet of living area. It sold for $435,000 in 2014.

SPANISH MAIN YACHT CLUB Lester Brassington Jr. and Penny Klein, of Bradenton, sold their Unit 129 condominium at 583 Spanish Drive S. to Robert and Cheryl Venneri, of Longboat Key, for $639,000. Built in 1968, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,399 square feet of living area. It sold for $300,000 in 2014.

Courtesy of Zarghami Group with Keller Williams Classic Group

A three-bedroom home at 352 N. Washington Drive recently sold for $3.45 million.

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OFF-BRANDS by Lisa Senzel and Jeff Chen, edited by Jeff Chen

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

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201

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816

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3040 GRAND BAY BOULEVARD #251

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1105

Beautiful, lush views of the Gulf are the perfect backdrop at this true 3BR, 4thfloor residence at Beachplace. Situated in a corner location, with beach and bay terraces. Covered parking included!

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4525

This furnished, direct Gulf-front residence is bathed in natural light. Offering a blend of comfort and relaxation, this 4th-floor retreat is an opportunity to relish inspiring beach and sunset views from every room.

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