Longboat Observer 9.28.23

YOUR TOWN

Lucky rider

A Lido Key resident was celebrated as the 250,000th passenger on Sarasota’s Bay Runner trolley service, which was launched in March 2022.

Fran Seminerio was honored at the John Ringing Boulevard/ St. Armands Circle trolley stop and presented with a swagfilled backpack. Seminerio rides the Bay Runner weekly.

“Transporting a quarter-ofa-million passengers in just 18 months is impressive,” said Parking General Manager Broxton Harvey in a release. “Sarasota residents and visitors want convenient, affordable transportation options for the first or last mile of their trip. With the Bay Runner, riders are leaving the car behind and getting to their destination in a safe, fun way while doing their part to help reduce traffic.”

The Bay Runner provides free service on a fixed route between downtown along Main Street, over the John Ringling Bridge, around St. Armands Circle, to Lido Beach and Ted Sperling Park. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays and 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

September night out on the town

Chrissy Frankum just moved to the Key a couple weeks ago from Nashville. On her way home from buying groceries on Sept. 20, the shop of Driftwood Beach Home and Garden caught her eye, and she couldn’t help but stop in for a minute.

Little did she know that she would be walking in on a community event to make new friends, September Night Out. Each month this summer, businesses around Whitney Plaza partnered together to give the residents of Longboat Key a chance to shop, drink, eat and mingle with neighbors. The event is hosted by Driftwood Beach Home and Garden and Design 2000 Salon.

Customers usually start at Driftwood for a

Photo by

Navy

Rippy

Crime report shows increased activity

Police Chief George Turner breaks down the reasons behind an increase in certain crimes from fiscal year 2022 to fiscal year 2023.

CARTER WEINHOFER

STAFF WRITER

An increase in the number of arrests doesn’t always mean a cause for concern.

That’s the perspective of Longboat Key Chief of Police George Turner when looking at year-overyear statistics for the town.

From fiscal year 2022 to fiscal year 2023, broken down into quarters, some areas of the crime report from the Longboat Key Police showed increases.

There were 18 misdemeanor arrests in the third quarter of fiscal year 2022 compared to 73 in that same quarter of 2023.

No felony arrests were made in the third quarter of FY22, but 16 occurred in the third quarter of FY23.

But Turner said it’s important to understand that this increase doesn’t necessarily mean there is an increase in criminal activity on the island. “Really, the numbers appear like there was a lot more (crime),” Turner said. “There’s not a lot more crime out here, and I think over time stats will prove that it’s gone down.”

He said there are three key reasons for the seeming increase.

First, since the start of FY22, there has been an increase in visitors to the island with the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.

Fiscal year 2022 began with October 2021, when the pandemic was a more prominent issue. Resorts weren’t at full operation, Turner said.

More people and traffic on the island at the end of FY23 is one factor behind the increased number of traffic and parking violations.

For example, in FY22 Q3, police

issued 112 traffic tickets. That number increased to 403 in FY23 Q3.

The second reason behind increased numbers is the increase in staff, bringing the department back up to being fully staffed. At the moment, the department has 24 officers — 19 full-time and five parttime.

Back in FY22, the department was short six people, about 40% less than what Turner considers fully-staffed.

Turner is also trying to now focus on hiring for the long run.

Previously, the department hired a lot of older officers near retirement. The officers would serve on the force for a couple of years before retiring, Turner said.

“Now, we’re looking for some younger, experienced officers that are dedicated to the job, at the top of their class and are around here to do the kind of things that we do,” Turner said. “We do a lot of things that other agencies just don’t have the time

to do. We’re here for the citizens of Longboat Key.”

This goes along with Turner’s third explanation: a change in philosophy. Turner took over the department in March 2022, which would be around the second quarter of FY22.

Turner’s philosophy is “proactive, instead of reactive.”

“Major crimes have gone down,” Turner said. “Murders, robberies, burglaries, those kinds of things have gone down, and I think that could be attributed to our proactive enforcement.”

This means higher visibility on the island, but also getting ahead of future incidents. For example, if a car is observed passing in a no-passing zone or a car is parked on a right of way, a ticket would be issued. This proactivity prevents a future incident like an accident.

More traffic warnings are given than tickets, but the same can’t be said for parking.

In Q3 of FY23, 45 parking warnings were issued, and 155 tickets. That same time of year in FY22, there were seven warnings and 192 tickets.  Turner said prior to FY22, more slack was given — more warnings than tickets — because of some new parking ordinances. But now, the educational period has passed.

“In some places they’ve gone up year to year, in some places they’ve gone down year to year,” he said. “It’s just a matter of our manpower levels, and whether people are obeying parking restrictions on the island like they should.”

“Murders, robberies, burglaries, those kinds of things have gone down, and I think that could be attributed to our proactive enforcement.”

— George Turner, Longboat Key Chief of Police

Buried alive or stolen valor?

Sources reveal inconsistencies in radio host ‘the Captain’ Matt Bruce’s story of 9/11 heroism, military service and record as a firefighter.

JAMES PETER MANAGING EDITOR

He was trapped for 13 hours in the rubble of the World Trade Center on 9/11.

That’s what conservative radio host Matt Bruce told an audience this year during the Remembrance of 9/11 ceremony at Sarasota National Cemetery.

“‘Mayday, mayday, mayday,’ those (calls) were real,” said Bruce during his speech. “And I probably was one of them.”

“No way. Hell no. Not a chance.”

Those were the reactions of current and retired firefighters from the city and state of New York to Bruce’s story of survival.

A former Sarasota-area resident now based in the Tampa area, Bruce refers to himself as “the Captain.” He hosts a nationally syndicated late-night talk radio program called “Captain’s America Third Watch,” which appears along with “The Alex Jones Show” in the 40-show lineup of Genesis Communications Network.

GCN’s website describes itself as “the largest independently owned and operated talk radio network in the country,” whose talk radio programming is heard in 49 states. Locally, Bruce’s program appears on The Answer AM 930 (AM 860 in Tampa) and FM 93.7.

Over his decades-long radio career, Bruce has built an audience by cultivating a folksy on-air persona bolstered by his decorated record in Vietnam and as a firefighter in the state of New York.

As a firefighter “assigned” to the New York City Fire Department, he says he responded to the 9/11 World Trade Center attacks, where he was buried for 13 hours in the rubble of the North Tower.

But sources throughout New York fire departments, including FDNY, have something in common. They say Matt Bruce is “a fake.”

“I had friends who died on 9/11. To say that he survived a building collapse is a sin,” said Mark McLees, retired Syracuse fire chief, whose department Bruce claims to have worked for over a 10-year period.  A wide range of interviews, archival material and public records the Observer obtained reveal that in many cases, according to sources, Bruce is either lying, exaggerating or some combination of the two when it comes to his military career and service as a firefighter.

MAYDAY

Bruce was invited to speak at the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee’s 9/11 commemoration

held on Sept. 11, 2023.

During his speech, Bruce told the audience gathered in Sarasota about his experiences on 9/11. He was in New York that day to teach 25 probationary firefighters “the skill of initial fire attack,” he said.

Bruce said, “I found myself” at the World Trade Center, “was able to go up to Tower No. 2,” ostensibly as part of the rescue efforts at the WTC’s North Tower (address WTC 1) “when a building fell on me.” While trapped for 13 hours in the rubble of the North Tower’s collapse, Bruce said he suffered a compound fracture to his ankle that was splinted by a comrade.

“It hurt like hell … stopped the bleeding, put a tourniquet on it, and 13 hours later, we got out of the mess that we were in,” Bruce said in his speech.

It sounds like a miracle, the stuff of movies.

Of course, that movie has already been made. “The Miracle of Stairwell B” recounted the real-life survival story of 14 people inside the North Tower, including 12 firefighters, one of whom was FDNY firefighter John “Jay” Jonas. Only a literal handful of others survived the North Tower’s collapse.

“We’re the most experienced fire department in the world. We teach our own people how to do things,” said Jonas. “Thirteen hours? That area was being combed very closely. If he existed there would be a record of it. ... No doubt he’s a fraud.”

But somehow Bruce’s story escaped recognition.

“I never heard of this man. I’ve never heard of (Matt Bruce),” said

Gerald Sanford, who was an FDNY firefighter for three decades and served as press secretary for FDNY in the aftermath of 9/11. Sanford was responsible for organizing a meeting between President George W. Bush and Jonas in the wake of the attacks.

“I was there. I would’ve known about somebody that was trapped ... I was in the press office,” said Sanford. “It would be impossible,” for such a story to have escaped his notice or that of his press team, Sanford added.

“There were no students to train. The students were already in firehouses. In fact, six of them perished that day,” said Sanford. “Him saying that he taught rookies. I never heard of that.”

Bruce told the Observer that on Sept. 11, 2001, he was teaching a course on Long Island near Huntington, which is located about 40 miles away from the World Trade Center.

Flight 11 crashed into the World Trade Center’s North Tower at 8:46 a.m. The South Tower (address WTC 2) was struck at 9:03 a.m. In less than two hours, first the South, then the North towers collapsed.

Bruce told the Observer that after the second tower (the North) collapsed on him, he was rescued 13 hours later from the rubble and taken to “the command post.”

There he awaited hospital transport, Bruce said. “But there was no transport at that time.”

“I was right there (at the command post) watching everything from start to finish,” Bruce told the Observer. Sanford, however, explained there were plenty of medical personnel standing by at that point. The only

shortage by then? Survivors.

“He would have been taken to the hospital,” said Jack McDonnell, retired FDNY battalion chief. He is a recipient of FDNY’s highest award for valor, formerly known as the James Gordon Bennett medal.

During his 9/11 speech, Bruce said there were a dozen people with him. When questioned by the Observer, Bruce could not recall the names of any of his 12 fellow survivors.

Similarly, Bruce could not recall the names of anyone at the command post, with the exception of his doctor, Shari Berg, a St. Petersburg practitioner, who Bruce claims was running triage at Ground Zero and subsequently treated him. Berg did not return several calls and messages left with her office for comment.

“The command post was destroyed at the time. They were literally crushed. He wasn’t there,” said McDonnell. “(13 hours?) that was absolutely impossible. I was at the reestablished command post.”

Daniel Caffrey was in the audience in Sarasota when Bruce gave his speech. He retired from FDNY as a captain and is a former deputy fire administrator of the New York Office of Fire Prevention and Control.

Bruce wore a chief’s hat with a gold braid signifying that rank, Caffrey said. A captain’s hat, Caffrey explained, would have a white braid. Not to mention the inconsistencies in Bruce’s story of training probationary firefighters at a training facility on Long Island or tower in Brooklyn.

There’s no training tower in Brooklyn, explained Caffrey.

Bruce has been telling his story of

survival for more than a decade. His speech at a political event held in 2010 at Sarasota’s bayfront can be found online. In that speech, Bruce said he “went through” 9/11 at Ground Zero with six people under his command “who never came back.”

“He was brought up to me through other individuals,” said Carlos Moreira, event organizer and director of campus engagement for veteran success and alumni affairs at USF Sarasota-Manatee. “It was more within the lines of he told me the story, the names he mentioned. I wanted to make sure of what he was going to talk about. So I wanted to make sure no politics got into the speech.”

BRUCE’S WAR

Bruce’s story of his service in Vietnam is inconsistent.

The 9/11 Sarasota Remembrance event program states that Bruce served two tours in Vietnam, earning two purple hearts, a bronze star and a silver star. The latter is the third-highest military commendation for valor that the U.S. awards. The speaker bio further states that Bruce “finished his eight years in the military with the New York Army National Guard.”

Bruce submitted this biographical information to USF and approved the final version that appeared in the 9/11 event program, Moreira said.

In an interview with the Observer, Bruce said that he had done combat tours in Vietnam in 1966, 1967, 1968 and 1969, and that he was stateside from 1970 onward, some of which time was spent recuperating from injuries sustained during combat.

Bruce confirmed that he is from Cazenovia, New York, a small town of about 3,000 people located 20 miles east of Syracuse.

The archives of the Cazenovia Republican, the local newspaper, include three stories that reference a Matt Bruce or Matthew Bruce as the head of a Civil Defense Rescue snowmobile organization in November 1970, March 1971 and again in October 1971. Although the Cazenovia Republican doesn’t report of any military awards won by a Matt/Matthew Bruce, the archives note a Matt Bruce’s membership in Explorer Post No. 10 in 1961 and the boys club’s subsequent hay ride, along with a congratulations to a Matt Bruce for bowling a 200 game in 1963.

Bruce’s extensive LinkedIn profile, which is written entirely in the first person, states he served in the U.S. Army from 1966 to 1974.

That section of the profile includes a photo of a soldier walking away from a burning hut in Vietnam. On the LinkedIn profile, the photo’s caption reads, “Capt Matt Bruce, Vietnam 1968 on Patrol … ” That same photo appears in the U.S. National Archives. The photo was taken on May 5, 1966, during Operation Georgia, a U.S. Marine Corps Security operation, according to the National Archives.

Bruce denied having written any of the information that appears on the LinkedIn profile, which begins with his high school record at Cazenovia Central School, where it’s stated that he graduated in 1965 with a C+ in general studies. The LinkedIn page for Matt Bruce has 6,000 followers and is updated almost daily with posts from Bruce’s radio program, the “Captain’s America Third Watch.” It contains more than 22 detailed work experiences and dozens of certifications.

A dozen people or sound engineers have access to the LinkedIn profile, said Bruce.

“I can’t even tell you how many people have worked here (at the radio station) in public relations.”

“There’s not 12 engineers. I don’t know the team,” said Marc Lecher, who described himself as Bruce’s “aide de camp,” saying that he sells the sponsors and runs interference for Bruce’s radio program. The Answer Tampa’s website lists Lecher as a multimedia marketing consultant.

“I have nothing to do with that (the Matt Bruce LinkedIn page),” Lecher said.

The LinkedIn page states that Bruce was part of “LRRP’s, ‘Long Range Reconnaissance Patrol Teams,’” and served two tours and eventually rose to the rank of company commander in the 101st Airborne.

A photo from the U.S. National Archives taken in Vietnam during Operation Georgia, a U.S. Marine Corps security operation that took place April 21 to May 10, 1966.

Screenshot of a photo and caption found on the LinkedIn page for Matt Bruce, host of the radio show, “Captain’s America Third Watch.” Courtesy photos

Courtesy photo

Sept. 14, 2001: Fires still burn amid the rubble of the World Trade Center after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Inset: Matt Bruce spoke to the audience at the 9/11 Remembrance ceremony held Sept. 11, 2023, at Sarasota National Cemetery.

“That seems to be a recollection,”

Bruce said of the LinkedIn information regarding Vietnam. “That reporter may have interviewed me and written that.”

The identity of “that reporter” is unknown.

When asked if there were any official records of his military service, Bruce told the Observer that they were destroyed in a fire.

The one in St. Louis? “Yes,” Bruce replied.

On July 12, 1973, a fire ignited at the National Personnel Records Center in St. Louis, Missouri. The fire destroyed nearly 80% of the U.S. Army records stored there, according to the U.S. National Archives.

But the records that were affected by the fire in St. Louis belonged only to U.S. Army personnel discharged between Nov. 1, 1912 and Jan. 1, 1960, according to the National Archives.

Bruce later told the Observer that documents regarding his military career and/or firefighting career were unlikely to be found because he possesses a top secret security clearance.

“I’ve done some things for the government before that I can’t talk about,” Bruce said. “I’ve done some things before 9/11 that I can’t discuss.”

ON FIRE

Bruce told the Observer that he began his firefighting career as a volunteer in Cazenovia in 1975.

Then, in 1980, Bruce said he joined the Scriba, New York, fire department on a part-time basis and at some point during that time “made rank in the lieutenant’s test.” The Scriba department is all volunteer.

“In 1982 or 1983,” he said he joined the Syracuse Fire Department, where he served for the next 10 years.

In his speaker bio in the USF 9/11 commemoration, Bruce claims to have risen to the rank of captain.

“In short, he’s a fake,” said McLees, the former Syracuse fire chief, who retired in 2013 after a nearly 28-year career with the department. “(Matt

Bruce) was never in the Syracuse Fire Department. He has nothing to do with Syracuse. For him to say Oswego or Syracuse, that’s not true.”

Having seen a picture of Bruce during his speech, McLees noted inconsistencies in Bruce’s dress.

“Without even listening to him I could tell that he was a fake,” said McLees. “He has a shirt on that has the FDNY patch in the wrong place. He has epaulets on. No one in FDNY wears epaulets.”

McLees also noted that the patches on the right breast of Bruce’s shirt indicated completed training or certifications and are commonly sewn onto windbreakers by volunteer firefighters.

“Based on his uniform, he’s from another planet,” said McLees.

The Syracuse Fire Department keeps detailed records of employment dating back to 1940, said Matt Craner, public information officer for the Syracuse Fire Department.

But Craner said he and his team were unable to find any employment or service records for Bruce.

“We’re actually in the process of digitizing records (now),” said Craner. “We keep very extensive, very detailed records.”

The Syracuse Fire Department only has about 365 members now, said Craner. The force numbered about 500 during the 1980s and early 1990s.

“People remember. Someone that rose to the rank of captain in 10 years

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and was around to the early 1990s, I think he would be remembered,” said Craner.

If a former Syracuse firefighter had in fact survived the collapse of the North Tower, Craner added, “A story like that would have been news here. I assume it would have been national news.”

RANK AND RECORD

Bruce told the Observer that he became a New York State fire instructor in 1993 and served in that capacity until 2003 and was based in Huntington, Long Island. Later during that same interview Bruce told the Observer that he retired in 2002.

“I was a New York State-certified firefighter for 30 years,” Bruce said. “I became an NYS training fire officer for 12 years. I have proof of every little bit of that.”

No record of Bruce appears in the New York State or city of New York pension or retirement benefit records hosted by SeeThroughNYC. net, which aggregates government records from across the state.

Asked about his absence from pension and retirement records, Bruce said, “Some of these agencies seal the firefighters’ and police records from someone trying to snoop.”

The names of all the New York firefighter sources quoted in this story appear in the retirement, pension or payroll records hosted on the website.

Bruce also told the Observer that

due to instruction he led at Mohawk Niagara Power nuclear plants in New York, his records may be classified.

“I did a nuclear plant one time. There are nuclear plants in New York and they have fire departments. … We had to train their fire departments. Every time I did one, they gave me a plaque in remembrance and appreciation. So I got all kinds of things like that.”

In the program for the Sarasota 9/11 Memorial, Bruce describes himself as a “retired Fire Rescue Capt.”

The title is used to describe him on the Matt Bruce LinkedIn page, in social media posts about his radio show and on a Matt Bruce profile on Firefighter Nation, a social networking site for firefighters.

“That’s not a term that’s used in New York,” said John Mueller.

Mueller was chief of fire services and worked for three decades in the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control.

That office operates the NYS training program, according to Mueller. It also trains “all the volunteer firefighters in the state except for Long Island.”

Mueller also said that he has no “recollection of ever seeing an NYS instructor assigned to probation school to teach basic skills.”

“The large cities of New York operate their own training programs,” said Mueller.

WHERE’S THE PROOF?

The Observer asked Bruce why his 9/11 story had thus far escaped media notice.

“Most of us didn’t say anything. I didn’t want to be involved,” Bruce said. “Here’s the thing … It’s never been about the people who survived a major situation. It’s about the people we lost. It’s all about the people we lost. That’s who we were honoring.”

The Observer submitted a Freedom of Information Law inquiry to the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services requesting any fire training, certification, etc. records for Matthew Bruce. That and similar requests are currently processing.

Via email and phone, the Observer requested Bruce share any records documenting his military service (e.g. discharge papers), firefighting career, training and/or certifications.

Bruce replied with 18 blurry photos of various certificates and documents hanging on his wall. Of the 18, one was completely legible. A certificate from the Manatee County Amateur Radio Club.

Matt Bruce emailed the Observer to state he sent a packet of documents via USPS on Sept. 22.

A request for a tracking number and/or clear photos of the documents went unanswered.

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Courtey photo

Examples of some of the documents that Matt Bruce submitted in response to the Observer’s requests.

Ian Swaby

Matt Bruce sits beside Karen Holbrook, regional chancellor of the USF SarasotaManatee Campus.

No lifeguards, no problem

CARTER WEINHOFER

STAFF WRITER

Cue the “Baywatch” theme — without David Hasselhoff, but still complete with some 1980s haircuts and mustaches.

The on-duty shift of Longboat Key firefighter paramedics rolled up to Coquina Beach right before training started at 9 a.m.

Instead of long pants and fire gear, they donned patterned swimming trunks.

Longboat Key Fire Rescue recently received annual water training from Manatee County Beach Patrol, learning proper techniques to rescue swimmers in distress.

The morning was led by Beach Patrol Capt. Marshall Greene, assisted by his beach patrol crew of nearly a dozen.

Training like this is a part of Manatee County beach patrol’s daily routine. The lifeguards arrive at the beach around 8:30 a.m., have training from 9-10 a.m., and then man their towers around 10:15 a.m.

But for Longboat Key Fire Rescue, the firefighter paramedics get this refresher course once a year.

The first bit of training was how to use what Greene called a Peterson Belt. When you think of a lifeguard, you can imagine these flotation devices, like a tube the size of a person’s torso with a strap.

The lifeguards instructed Longboat firefighter paramedics on how to properly deploy the belt, showing them how to throw it and then wrap it back up to be used again.

Then it was time to get in the water.

Each of the 10 firefighter paramedics worked with a lifeguard on

how to run into the water and quickly swim to a distressed swimmer. The group went over techniques to be used for both conscious and unconscious patients.

After a couple repetitions using the belt, the firefighter paramedics were ready to move onto the boards.

It’s more complicated than just dragging the board into the water.

It’s all about momentum.

“That’s our main goal, is just getting out there as fast as we can,” Greene said.

The lifeguards demonstrated with ease the different methods of dragging the board while running, and then sliding the board into the water and hopping on, all in one swift motion.

First the firefighter paramedic had to learn how to put a conscious swimmer on the board. Next was the more difficult task — what to do if the swimmer is unconscious.

For this technique, the board has to be flipped upside down so the fins are pointed up at the sky. The rescuer then brings the torso of the unconscious swimmer halfway on the board before flipping the board upright. With that, the body of the swimmer eases onto the board.

“You’ll always use a board if you have a lot of people you’re saving at once,” Greene said. “With the Peterson belt, basically you can only rescue one.”

The group got the hang of the technique quickly, and got out of the water.

But they weren’t done yet.

The last part of the training was practicing something called “escapes.”

Sometimes, a swimmer in distress panics, grabs onto the rescuer

and tries to push themselves up by pushing the rescuer down. This is when it’s necessary to perform an escape — techniques lifeguards use to remove themselves from the situation and let the distressed swimmer calm down for a moment.

Longboat Key doesn’t have lifeguards like neighboring beaches in Sarasota or Manatee County. If a water rescue is necessary on the island, it would be up to the fire department to respond.

The crew has its own gear, like a beach vehicle and rescue board, but the annual training is equally important to keep everyone up to speed.

When thinking of “fire rescue,” Longboat Key Fire Rescue Assis -

tant Chief Jentzen Barton said water rescue wouldn’t always be the first thing that comes to mind. But on a barrier island like Longboat Key, it can be part of the job.

“When it comes to water rescue for our organization, we put this service just as high as the other services we provide,” Barton said in an email.

Water rescues are seen as a highrisk, low-frequency situation. While water rescue incidents happen on an infrequent basis according to Barton, each one has the potential to cause significant harm.

“For our firefighter paramedics, we strive to provide a premier service to our community,” he said. “And water rescue is no exception.”

Longboat’s

firefighters teamed up with Manatee County lifeguards to learn water rescue techniques.

Photos by Carter Weinhofer

Lt. Daniel Heath (left) and Longboat Key firefighter paramedics practice running into the water with rescue boards.

Beach Patrol Captain Marshall Greene instructs Longboat Key Fire Rescue firefighter paramedics how to use a Peterson belt.

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New addition to the force

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

Locals returning for the season might notice another new face that joined the Longboat Key Police Department this summer.  Officer Michael Mathis was sworn in on Sept. 18, making him the fourth full-time officer to join the department since June.

Mathis and his family moved from Senoia, Georgia. Senoia was once a quiet, small town, until the popular TV series “The Walking Dead” made the town its prime filming location — nevertheless, he said it was interesting to see how the filming brought a lot of fun into the community.

A couple years ago, Mathis and his family found Siesta Key on a vacation and shortly after set a goal to move to the area.

Mathis has a close friend at the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, who encouraged Mathis to look into Longboat Key. Longboat Key Capt. Robert Bourque talked to Mathis on the phone, and Mathis jumped at the chance to join the department.

The day of his swearing in, Sept. 18, happened to also be his daughter’s birthday. His whole family was able to attend the swearing in ceremony, making it “absolutely a special moment.”  In a short period of time, Mathis said he and his family have already felt the impact of a small community.

“We’re totally blown away with how welcoming everybody is, how nice they are, how supportive they are of law enforcement,” Mathis said.

Mathis started his law enforcement career in LaGrange, Georgia, in 2005. After a year there, he moved to the Coweta County Sheriff’s Office, where he spent the next 17 years.

With the department, Mathis worked his way from basic patrol and traffic management to working with the undercover narcotics unit and the sex-trafficking unit.

Mathis said he was inspired by his mother, who had a long career in law enforcement, and a lifelong interest in helping people. One of the most rewarding things about the job is seeing people be successful and prosper after dealing with a bad situation, he said.

Courtesy photo The Longboat Key Police Department recently added Officer Michael Mathis, who was sworn in Sept. 18.

Look No F

/ OUR VIEW

The social service brouhaha

Should county tax dollars be used to fund social service organizations? Where do you draw the line?

HOW COUNTY COMMISSION VOTED TO FUND SOCIAL SERVICES

The table shows what each social service organization received from Sarasota County for the 2022-23 fiscal year; what the county’s advisory councils recommended for 2024; and what the County Commission adopted on Sept. 12 and Sept. 25. The green figures represent increases over the recommendations of the Behavioral Health Services Advisory Council and Health Services Advisory Council; the red amounts represent decreases.

The approved amounts are the figures available prior to deadline.

With no disrespect intended, watching this process, well, it’s almost enough to make you want to seek mental health counseling.

This is the long saga of the Sarasota County Commission — or should we say of Commissioner Mike Moran — trying to figure out what the role should be for the County Commission and county taxpayers in the complicated, growing world of providing and funding social services to the county’s needy residents.

Commissioners went at it again for two and a half hours Tuesday, 90 minutes of which they listened mostly to representatives of social service, not-for-profit organizations plead passionately to commissioners to reverse many of Commissioner Moran’s surprising cuts that the commission adopted Sept. 12.

Moran triggered a chain reaction of IEDs among the county’s social service organizations two weeks ago when, without warning to anyone, he showed up at the commission meeting with a spreadsheet of how much county taxpayer money he wanted to allocate to roughly 50 organizations.

Whoosh. Bam, slam. It was Moran’s classic bullying, passive aggressive style. He prefaced his proposals with accolades for all of the hundreds of hours the 12 members of the Behavioral Health Advisory Council and the Health Services Advisory Council devoted to analyzing, evaluating, auditing, scoring and ultimately recommending funding amounts.

But then rather having commissioners discuss the councils’ recommendations, Moran pushed forward his scoring and final funding recommendations, and before almost anyone could blink or say much, the commission voted unanimously to adopt Moran’s funding recommendations.

It depends on how you look at it. As he tells it, his funding proposals approved 68% of the 90 applications, with 25 of those approved receiving more money than the advisory councils’ recommended. But the flip side of that is Moran initially proposed no funding for 15 applications — for organizations to which the county previously has contributed consistently.

Virtually no one was present to raise a hand. Thankfully, Commission Chair Ron Cutsinger did. You could tell after the vote, he felt overly queasy about what just happened and eventually indicated he thought the commission should revisit the matter.

Meantime, it took no time for the news to spread in not-forprofit circles. The leaders and board members of the affected organizations were agog. They couldn’t believe how neither Moran nor the commission gave any of them advance warning of Moran’s changes; couldn’t believe how Moran’s scoring and recommendations appeared cavalierly tossing aside the advisory councils’ recommendations, with nary a question to the councils’ members and making it seem much of what they had done was all for naught; and they couldn’t believe funding was eliminated altogether for some organizations. In the two weeks hence, Moran

and commissioners felt the aftershocks, so much so that Moran felt compelled at the start of Tuesday’s commission meeting to explain how he arrived at his proposals.

“I didn’t touch the numbers,” he said. “I never touched any calculation” that the advisory councils made. He did, however, create a scoring spreadsheet and a bonus system of his own that resulted in different funding levels.

Cutsinger apparently felt so uncomfortable about what occurred at Tuesday’s meeting he put the matter on Tuesday’s agenda for revisions and discussion and also sequestered himself the past few days to review every non-profit’s application and the advisory councils’ scoring for every application.

His results explain a lot. They give context to what has transpired over the past two weeks.

“This is the first year for an entirely new process,” Cutsinger told the audience at Tuesday’s meeting. “And then we had the added challenge of significant time constraints. I’ve always understood we might not get it right the first time around.”

And he was right. “What quickly became apparent, there were flaws in the process that led to significantly inaccurate scores.”

Hindsight is wonderful, of course. With the deadline for the adoption of next year’s budget looming, the commission was running out of time for what could have, perhaps should have, occurred: A public discussion with the advisory councils and the commission to raise questions, reach consensus, make revisions and avoid the consternation and con-

troversy that occurred.

By addressing the matter Tuesday, Cutsinger made it right, at least better. Commissioners added back the councils’ recommended funding for six organizations.

But there is more context to this that is worth noting. And here we will give Moran credit.

While his bullying on the dais is off-putting, Moran takes seriously the role of being a good steward of taxpayer dollars. For four years, he has questioned the commission’s allocation of taxpayer money for social services. He vehemently opposes the commission awarding tax dollars to organizations that provide pre-pre-school learning services and, to an extent, daycare. Funding for early learning, he says, should come from the Sarasota County School Board.

On a broader scale, without being totally blunt and explicit, Moran rightly has been raising the question of how far or deeply county taxpayers should fund the not-forprofit organizations that do the hard, necessary work of providing social services to the needy.

It’s a great question. You can add this one, too: Whether county taxpayers should fund social services.

As you can see in the accompanying box above, in next year’s budget the commission is allocating more than $12 million for human services. The advisory councils recommended $13 million. If you asked each of the non-profits what they really need, it would easily double, probably triple the amount.

There is never enough money.

What’s more, as this current debate has demonstrated, even when there is a quantitative scoring system,

there is an arbitrariness to who gets what. If you listened to the organizations’ representatives at Tuesday’s meeting, they all do great, needed work. So what makes the five county commissioners qualified to sit in judgment on whom to fund or not fund? Some they like, some they don’t.

Indeed, while observing what transpired over the past two weeks, what we often says also became clear: In spite of everyone’s good, honorable intentions, when government intervenes, things get messy, complicated, controversial — and most of the time worse.

One of the answers to this question of taxpayers’ role in social services came when Commissioner Moran asked longtime Sarasota homebuilder and philanthropist Lee Wetherington: “Where do the government dollars in this stop?”

Moran said: “When I started this four years ago for the community to have this discussion, I respectfully disagree that the government is the answer.”

Wetherington, a foundational rock of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota for 32 years, said, “There is so much money out there that comes in besides taxes. If the government and foundation boards got together to really create a dynamic, it would be much better than we have right here.”

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Another side of war

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

Sitting in his Bradenton studio, photojournalist Allan Mestel can vividly recount stories behind portraits of gravediggers, young drone operators, a woman honoring her deceased father and the last woman to live in her war-torn apartment.

Less than a month ago, Mestel and his colleague, photographer David Graham, were suited up in protective armor on the front lines of the Russia-Ukraine war.

Graham said they could tell how close they were to the front line by how much they felt the artillery.

It was especially intimidating when Ukranian military personnel smiled and said “good luck” when crossing a checkpoint to a front line

area, Mestel said.  Another soldier asked the pair if they had their tourniquet kits, and if they knew how to use them.

This was the third time Mestel traveled to Ukraine to document the war, this time his focus is on a new project called “Portrait Ukraine 2023.”

The goal is to spotlight the conflict and keep Ukraine in the public discourse, Mestel said.

“The idea is to humanize,” Mestel said.

Rather than using statistics and landscape images of destruction to tell the story, Mestel wanted to focus on the human perspective.

“I define it almost as trying to create an encounter experience for the viewer, where you’re looking eye to eye with an individual and hopefully

connecting emotionally with them,” Mestel said.

The duo was in Ukraine from the end of August to early September. Mestel was the main photographer, while Graham was there to capture video of the experience. Graham documented Mestel’s work, as well as conducted interviews with some of the subjects.

One of the subjects that made an impression on them was an older woman who was the only person living in an apartment complex that had been almost completely destroyed by heavy artillery.

The two documented the stories of drone teams made of 19- and 20-year-old soldiers — one soldier operated the drone while others covered him.

They eventually found their way to a horse ranch, where soldiers with extreme PTSD are able to rehabilitate through connections with horses.

This trip was different from his last, Mestel said.

Last time he was in Ukraine, in July 2022, the Ukrainian people were still worried about Russian troops

swarming in.

“There were literally military checkpoints every 20 kilometers, on every highway all over the country,” Mestel said.

Now, he said, the lines have stabilized, creating one focal front.

With a little more stability, Mestel and Graham both said it was interesting to see how people are trying to live normal lives in some of the cities.

Shops are open in some places, restaurants serve food. Hotels that aren’t destroyed can still host.

But the artillery overhead can’t be ignored, Mestel and Graham said.

PASSION BEHIND THE PORTRAITS

Despite a language barrier, the two focused on connecting with the people in the frames.

They had a translator — who often did a better job at planning than translating, the duo joked. And they relied a lot on Google Translate.

Other journalists in the media center helped hook the two up with a translator. The media center, they said, is like a hub of writers and pho-

tographers, where they have access to secure internet and cafes.

Sometimes it was tough to get people to open up at first. But after breaking the ice, Mestel and Graham were surprised at the results.

“I thought they’d be very closed,” Graham said. “It was shocking how open and nice (the Ukrainians) were to us and telling us these stories.”

For Mestel and Graham, photographing the war in Ukraine is their passion project. They said their day jobs allow them to take the trips and do this work.

Mestel runs a portrait studio in Bradenton, and Graham photographs weddings. On Longboat Key, Mestel also co-owns Beach Fitness in Whitney Plaza with his wife, Robyne.

“My personal passion for the last several years has been human rights and social justice photography,” Mestel said, talking about other projects he’s worked on, such as photographing for Black Lives Matter and documenting the issues at the U.S.-Mexico border. “If I could do that 100% of the time rather than having to make money, I would.”

Allan Mestel’s latest project focuses on the people in the Russia-Ukraine War.

Photos courtesy of Allan Mestel

This woman lives alone in an apartment building in Kharkiv.

Slava, a Ukrainian student, stands in the rubble of his school that was destroyed in the Battle of Kharkiv.

Republican Club of Longboat Key, Inc.

P.O. Box 8181

Longboat Key, FL 34228-8181

DINNER MEETING! October 10,

2023

Join us for cocktails and dinner. Our Special Guest will be Dr. Lt. Col. Lisette Bonano, candidate for Florida State House of Representatives.

Reception: 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM

Dinner / Meeting: 6:00 PM to 8 PM

NEW LOCATION:

Sarasota Yacht Club 1100 Ringling Blvd. Sarasota, FL 34236

GUEST SPEAKER:

Dr. Lt. Col.

Lisette Bonano

As a retired lieutenant colonel with 28 years of service in the US Army, Dr. Lisette Bonano is running for Florida State House, District 67. Her father, a retired Vietnam veteran, instilled in her and her five siblings the values of selfless service that she exemplifies every day. Dr. Bonano’s diverse range of responsibilities in the Army included human resources, civil affairs, psychological operations, intelligence, and inspector general. She was deployed to Iraq to conduct civil engagement with local leaders and served as a US military contractor in Afghanistan, training an Afghan National Army Inspector General team.

Her love for learning and formal education is evident from her academic achievements. Dr. Bonano holds a B. A degree in Special Education, an M.A. degree in International Relations, and an Ed.D degree in Educational Leadership. She is also currently working towards a Ph.D. in Theology. Her dedication to the equitable treatment of all people was evident in her favorite assignment at the Pentagon, where she ensured that our allies in the Western Hemisphere respected the human rights of their citizens.

Her experiences growing up overseas and serving in diverse areas have taught her to listen, appreciate, and relate to people of all backgrounds, colors, and creeds. She is committed to fighting for the needs of the people of Hillsborough County and will always listen to their concerns. Together, Dr. Bonano believes that “we the people” are “more than conquerors” and can achieve great things when we work together.

MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS DINNER: $75

Because we must give a final number to the Club for dinner, the deadline for reservations is 3pm, Friday, October 6th. Reservations will not be accepted after that date. Thank you for your understanding.

Make your reservation online and pay securely with your credit card by going to our website: rclbk.org

We do not accept credit cards at the door. For more information, please contact our President: Garnett Black | gblackrclbk@gmail.com

‘Game-changing’ equipment

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

In the parking lot outside of the Bradenton Firehouse Subs, members of four fire and rescue departments unveiled the latest equipment upgrades to their fleets.  All the equipment was purchased with a $130,362 grant from Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation.

Longboat Key Fire Rescue Department was one of the four agencies at the Sept. 25 event that included Bradenton Fire Department, Manatee Search & Rescue and North River Fire District.  North River Fire District was unable to show what it had purchased with the grant because it’s still on the way — an inflatable rescue boat valued at $15,892.

The other three departments, including Longboat Key, showed off the brand new extrication equipment. With all three departments’ equipment, the total came to $114,469, roughly $39,000 of which benefited Longboat’s department.

Longboat received Hurst Jaws of Life, which include cutters, a ram

and a spreader. The tools are used to remove trapped victims from accidents and structural collapses.

These specifically are saltwater submersible, a necessary feature when on a barrier island.

Longboat Key Fire Rescue Chief Paul Dezzi spoke about the importance of this equipment for his department.

“I know for Longboat Key, this is a game-changer for us,” Dezzi said.

Firehouse Subs is built on “decades of fire and police service,” according to its website.

Locations raise money by asking customers to “round up” their total to the nearest dollar, reselling pickle buckets and setting out donation canisters.

Firehouse Subs regional manager John Cz was in attendance, along with Kaite Fountain, who co-owns the location with her husband, Mike.

“What you guys do is just amazing,” Cz said to the departments in his speech. “I just want to say how much we appreciate what you do for us, and how much Firehouse Subs appreciates what you guys do for us and our communities.”

Correction: A story in the Sept. 14 edition,“Learn Everything Under the Sun,” incorrectly stated the number of members at The Education Center at Temple Beth Israel. The center has 700 members, and its program offerings are available to nonmembers as well.

Longboat Key Fire Rescue with Jaws of Life equipment. From left to right: John Cz, Kaite Fountain, Public Information Officer Tina Adams, William Lewis, Ryan Corso, Lt. Ron Koper and Chief Paul Dezzi.

Carter Weinhofer

SATURDAY, SEPT. 16

WAY TOO EARLY

3:39 a.m., 100 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive

Suspicious Vehicle: While on patrol, a Longboat Key police officer noticed a car parked at the entrance of Overlook Park. The officer approached the driver, who said he was waiting for the park to open so he could go fishing for ladyfish. But since the park didn’t open until 5 a.m., the officer advised the driver to relocate until the park opened.

ANOTHER DAY, ANOTHER DOG

3:45 p.m., Beer Can Island

Dog on the beach: A Longboat Key marine patrol officer noticed a small dog on the beach area of Beer Can Island. The officer made contact with the owner over the PA system and said dogs were not allowed on the beach due to the town ordinance. The owner waved and returned the dog to the boat.

JERKY JET SKIER

4:45 p.m., South Lido Key

Boating Citation: A marine patrol officer observed a personal watercraft with two passengers, one of whom was not wearing proper safety gear. The driver was cruising at a high speed, taking sharp turns and doing donuts, which then caused the rear passenger to be ejected from the watercraft. When the marine patrol officer approached, the driver lied and said he was just picking up his friend who was swimming. He was unaware the marine patrol officer had been watching. The driver was issued a citation and educated on the violation.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 17

BATHROOM BREAK

12:03 a.m., 4000 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive

Suspicious Vehicle: While on routine patrol, an officer noticed an out-of-state vehicle at Bayfront Park after hours. The officer approached the owner, who said he was on his way home and needed to stop to use the restroom. The driver was advised that the park had been closed, and he went on his way.

TUESDAY, SEPT. 19

DISAPPEARING DENTURES

5000 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive

Found Property: An individual visited the Longboat Key Police Department to turn in found property — an upper set of dentures

Local shorebird finds refuge in Myakka

MIRI HARDY CONTRIBUTOR

Striking and boisterous, black skimmers are Florida statethreatened birds who are rapidly losing their habitats as a result of coastal development.

FRIENDSHIP FAREWELL

5:57 p.m., 600 block of Spanish Drive South Welfare Check: Longboat Key Police Department was asked by a caller to conduct a welfare check on the caller’s friend, from whom she had not heard. When the police arrived at the friend’s house, she told the officer that her friendship with the caller was over and she wished to never speak to her again. The responding officer then had to break the news to the caller.

MONDAY, SEPT. 18

ACCIDENTS HAPPEN

2:24 p.m., 3800 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Citizen Dispute: Two Longboat Key officers were dispatched to respond to a citizen dispute between a property manager and construction crew. On scene, the officers met the property manager who said the construction crew was installing internet cables and struck the water line to the apartment complex. The property manager said she had to turn off the complex’s water to stop the leak. The construction supervisor said prior to any work he had called 811 to mark off any buried cables and pointed out where he believed the leak to be. Longboat Key Public Works arrived on scene to assist. The leak was identified by turning back on the water, and the construction supervisor said he would bring his equipment to help with the situation.

They’re also imperiled due to increasing disturbances, mostly caused by humans and humansponsored predators, such as dogs and fish crows.  Many enjoy watching these unique shorebirds on Sarasota’s beaches.

But to visitors’ delight, skimmers can also be spotted at Myakka River State Park.

In early 2023, beach conditions were especially hazardous for shorebirds due to rampant red tide, which contaminated their food. And for the first time, a large flock of 92 black skimmers took refuge in the park, where they found newly restored floodplain marshes at the Upper Myakka Lake and ample, untainted food.

Protecting imperiled species is a priority for Myakka’s Florida Park Service team. So to keep the skimmers safe in their newly chosen spot, a temporary barrier was placed, preventing disturbances from park visitors.

When flocks of birds are startled and forced to fly with no reason, they extend energy they’ll need to replenish or are forced to move to a less optimal area. While disturbing wildlife is always to be avoided, the extra protection was important as rest is critical for birds getting ready for their arduous nesting season.

Thanks to bird banding, which allows us to identify individual birds, Florida-based skimmers, as well as migratory ones from New York and New Jersey, were spotted among the flock in the park.

These findings highlight the

importance of Myakka’s existing and newly restored protected habitats for imperiled wildlife both near and far.

It was especially meaningful to spot 5B, who was banded as a chick on St. Pete Beach in 2019. For the past two years she’s nested with the North Lido Key colony — one of the largest skimmer colonies in Florida.

This summer, after spending quality time at Myakka, 5B again nested with the colony at their new location on South Lido Beach, where she successfully fledged a chick.

And thanks to banding, we also know that 5B survived the winds and storm surge associated with Hurricane Idalia unscathed. Perhaps we’ll see her at Myakka again this winter.

Friends of Myakka River exists to support Myakka River State Park and the Wild and Scenic Myakka River. Together, we’re protecting and sharing Myakka’s Magic, to the benefit of future generations, and our own. Follow us @FriendsOfMyakkaRiver.

Miri Hardy

In early 2023, with red tide rampant on area beaches, 92 black skimmers sought refuge at Myakka River State Park. One of them was 5B, a member of the Lido Key nesting colony banded as a chick in 2019.

Collections for a good cause

Longboat Island Chapel had a special guest at its monthly charity happy hour on Sept. 24.

The chapel is known for its creative themes and unique collections for the nonprofits it partners with. The Charitable Outreach Committee holds these events to educate members about the importance of providing uncommon things to those who don’t have access to them.

The September theme was “Sunday Undies” and Captain Underpants was the special guest. They collected underwear for Turning Points in Bradenton. Chapel members enjoyed the re-creation of the famous cartoon and love putting a twist on these events.

It was a smaller turnout this month since the season hasn’t started, but the event was still filled with camaraderie and bonding over the delicious food.

“That’s what the chapel is about: serving the community,” said Billy Evanako. “These events are always for a good cause and then they are a fun time as well.”

This was Evanako’s first event at the chapel for a while, but it was the perfect way to be welcomed back. He said that these events make the fellowship stronger and are an amazing way to meet new people as well.

For the chapel’s October event, it will be collecting bras for Turning Points for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

— PETRA RIVERA

WORSHIP directory

A sea of knowledge

Four-year-old Landon Varsek was among the children enjoying their time at Bay Fest: Exploring Our Underwater World, spending hours dip netting in the bay without ever asking to go home.

Formerly held in recognition of volunteers in the Sarasota Seagrass Survey, a volunteer-driven survey of the area’s different seagrasses, this year the event served the wider public when it was held on Sept. 23 at the Sarasota Sailing Squadron facility.

“We wanted to open it up and make it more of a public spectacle, and engage kids and people that didn’t necessarily participate, but we thought needed to know about seagrass,” said Megan Barry, public outreach manager for the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program. “We have a lot more of a general public than we have in the past two years, and I’m really excited about that.”

Barry said the goal of the event, a joint effort between Sarasota County and the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, was to offer something for all ages.

The offerings included the opportunity to see and touch seahorses, spider crabs, puffer fish with the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, free kayaking tours with Wayne Adventures and live music by RhythmTrail.

“I thought it was very good,” said Kimberly Scaringe, an education specialist at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. “I love the kids. They are so curious about so many things that adults don’t notice sometimes. It was wellattended, and it was an absolutely perfect day.”

— IAN SWABY

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.

Photos by Ian Swaby Natalie Munich of the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute shows a spider crab to Illyana Recher, 5, and Zavier Recher, 8.

Longboat Island Chapel collected underwear to donate to Turning Points this month.

Karen Pashkow and Chef David Stone

Jeremy Jones and Christian Jones, 10, enjoy dip netting in the bay.

Hang Reusch, Lily Reusch, 5, and Justin Reusch enjoy a kayaking trip together.

Photos by Petra Rivera

Beryl Schwarz-trauber, Holly Patterson, Mark and Michelle Johnson

Pauline Schweinfurth Becker

1921-2023

An amazing woman, who preferred anonymity more than anything else, Pauline Schweinfurth Becker, born to German immigrants Charles L. and Pauline “Mary” Schweinfurth, passed away peacefully in her Sarasota home surrounded by friends and loving caregivers on Sunday, September 10, 2023 at the age of 102.

She was born in Newark, New Jersey on June 27, 1921. Nicknamed Line (pronounced Leanie), Pauline and her parents moved to Roseland, New Jersey in 1930. Her father became the Chief of Police for Roseland. A farm girl at heart, she was diligent and determined in whatever she did. After finishing high school, Pauline worked at the Henry Beckers

Dairy Farm (Roseland) and married the boss, Henry Eugene (Gene) Becker. The Becker’s sold the farm to Essex County in 1969 and donated their homestead and Barn to the Roseland Historical Society in 1982. Shortly thereafter, they settled full time in Sarasota. Gene, her husband of 63 years, passed away in 2003. In the early 80’s, Pauline

volunteered for the Pelican Man (now Save Our Seabirds) and subsequently for 35 years at Mote Marine Laboratory, first in the Gift Shop and then in the Library. She loved the interaction with the scientists, she would say with a glint in her eyes. Quietly and behind the scenes, insisting on anonymity, she also generously provided financial support to the fledgling laboratory, from Shark cancer research to the study of Spotted Eagle rays and scholarships for youths interested in marine science. Similarly she supported organizations such as the Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties, Florida Sheriff’s Youth Ranches, SPARCC, Easter Seals Happiness House, Lighthouse for the Blind, Kessler Foundation, Ringling College of Art and Design, Rotary Club of Sarasota Foundation, Southeast Guide Dogs, Inc and many more. She loved to support “open spaces” projects and organizations; and truly believed that Sarasota was being paved over. In that vein, she supported the Bay Park Conservancy, the Gulf Coast Conservation Foundation

and other environmental causes. She always stepped up with support when disaster assistance was needed.

She served on the Board of Trustees of both Mote Marine Laboratory and the Ringling College of Art and Design.

Pauline lived her life fully with zest, but remained modest and humble. She served on the Board of Trustees of both Mote Marine Laboratory and the Ringling College of Art and Design. She, along with her husband Gene, belonged to a Cross Country Car club and spent three decades driving with friends across the country coast to coast. She loved her green Pierce Arrow which now resides at the Library and Museum of the Antique Automobile Club of America Inc. (Hershey, Pennsylvania). Her husband’s passion for steam engines and railroad cars had her helping him in constructing and operating a small gauge railroad, Centerville and Southwestern Railway, spanning the entire area of their farm. The railroad delighted many young families in Roseland during the 40’s through early 70’s. The steam engines and locomotives now reside in the Philipsburg Railroad Historians museum, Philipsburg, New Jersey.

Pauline’s life mantra was to “talk straight and say it as it is”. She did not mince words. She had a strong independent streak, but was compassionate and empathetic towards the less fortunate. She loved her friends and cherished the conversations they had. She did not like crowds but she loved to go to lunch-

es with a few friends. She remembered everything and with a sharp wit would easily disarm anyone. She loved her birthday parties, although she didn’t want them, especially as she was nearing 100. She listened more than she talked; and when she gave advice, people listened. All her friends invariably remarked about having received wise counsel from her at some turning point in their lives and were grateful. Her closest friends, when asked to describe her, often used words such as, Honest, Fair, Straightforward, Ethical, Generous, Confident, Committed, Determined, Compassionate, Charismatic, Charming, Sharp witted, humble, wise, an eye for details, etc. Pauline was a remarkable person, and as a wife of a lifelong Rotarian, lived the Rotary’s four way test in every aspect of her life: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build good will and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? She loved reading the Observer every week for local news and the articles became points of discussion with her friends for the week. As one of her closest anonymous friends writing this obituary, I wondered what she would say, probably “Why are you making all this fuss?! Don’t you have anything else to do?!”

Pauline’s funeral arrangements are being handled

by Robert Toale and Sons Funeral Home at Palms Memorial Park in Sarasota. Her cremated ashes will be interred next to her beloved husband, Gene, at Fairmount Cemetery in Newark, New Jersey and service is private as per her wish. In lieu of flowers, Memorial donations may be made to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties (3130 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, Florida 34237), Easter Seals Happiness House (350 Braden Avenue, Sarasota, Florida 34243), or to a charity of choice.

DONATIONS:

In lieu of flowers, Memorial donations may be made to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties (3130 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, Florida 34237), Easter Seals Happiness House (350 Braden Avenue, Sarasota, Florida 34243), or to a charity of choice.

Pauline’s life mantra was to “talk straight and say it as it is”.

A+E INSIDE:

<READY TO EAT: Chef Sol Shenker’s Sarasota fans eagerly await his latest New York-style deli. 19

BLACK TIE INSIDE:

GAMES FOR GOOD: Sisterhood for Good hosts annual Designer Bag Bingo 20>

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

HAVE YOURSELF A HIGH-WIRE CHRISTMAS

Nik Wallenda teams up with Circus Arts

Conservatory to create a new holiday tradition.

or many New Yorkers, attending the Big Apple Circus under the bigtop at Lincoln Center is a Christmas tradition.

Renowned Sarasota aerialist Nik Wallenda wants going to the circus to become a holiday ritual in his hometown as well. “I want the circus to be like ‘The Nutcracker’ and the Radio City Rockettes at Christmas,” he explains during an interview at his home off of Fruitville Road, past the Founders Club.

MONICA ROMAN GAGNIER ARTS+ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

Big top

To achieve his goal, Wallenda is teaming up with his mentors and friends Dolly Jacobs and Pedro Reis, co-founders of the Circus Arts Conservatory, to bring a giant tent to the University Town Center/Nathan Benderson Park Area.

Wallenda and the CAC will present a holiday spectacular called “A Brave New Wonderland” from Nov. 18 through Dec. 21 at a bigtop that will be located east of the Mall at UTC.

“I’ve always dreamed of sharing the magic of my New York City productions with my beloved hometown and revered circus community of Sarasota,” Wallenda said in a statement. “With ‘A Brave New Wonderland,’ I’m thrilled to collaborate with the Circus Arts Conservatory to bring this dream to life and create unforgettable holiday memories for the community that means so much to me.”

Wallenda is the most prominent member of the multigenerational acrobatic family once known as The Flying Wallendas. He is known to millions around the world for walking a wire across Nicaragua’s Masaya Volcano, the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls and Times Square. In 2017, he

became the headline act at the Big Apple Circus and has since become its proprietor.

The Wallenda family’s roots are inextricably linked to both the history of the circus and of Sarasota. The family was performing in Cuba in the 1920s when they were recruited by circus magnate John Ringling, who made Sarasota the winter home of what became known as the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus.

“My family stayed in the Ca’ d’Zan until they found their own place,” Wallenda says, referring to John and Mable Ringling’s bayfront mansion, which today is a museum.

As anyone who has followed the circus arts knows, the Wallendas are an acrobatic troupe that has sought and achieved unprecedented glory but has also suffered unfathomable tragedies.

Among them are the death of Nik’s great-grandfather, Karl Wallenda, in 1978 when he fell from a tight rope at age 73 in Puerto Rico, and the life-threatening injury of his sister, Lijana, who broke every bone in her face after the family fell during a performance of their signature human pyramid in 2017.

The obvious question is: Why do the Wallendas continue to court danger and tempt fate with ever more daring performances? According to Nik Wallenda, there are two reasons:

It’s in their DNA, and they love the circus. “My family has literally given their lives to elevate the awareness of circus arts,” he says.

About 15 Wallenda family members are active performers, including his 72-year-old uncle, who is currently on the road performing at state fairs.

Nik Wallenda meets a visitor to his home gym wearing a T-shirt that says “Wired Different.” There’s no argument there. He walks the wire spanning his backyard the way most people in Sarasota stroll along the beach. “When I’m on the wire, I’m calm,” he says. “It’s where I belong.”  Wallenda is excited about his latest collaboration with CAC because it allows him to give back to the hometown he loves and to introduce a new generation to the thrill and beauty of circus arts.

“When Nik came to us with his idea for a holiday show, we were thrilled at the concept and got to work right away to help bring the idea to life,” said CAC Executive Vice President/ COO Jennifer Mitchell in a statement. “It’s entirely appropriate for Sarasota’s ‘hometown hero’ and ‘hometown circus’ to come together for a show that will delight and inspire residents and visitors alike.”

As Wallenda’s phone buzzes with text messages during an interview, he talks about his love/hate relation-

ship with technology. Cell phones allow us to communicate instantaneously, making life more efficient and convenient, he notes. But Wallenda believes “technology has robbed us of the magic of live entertainment.”

Wallenda says he allows audience members to take photos and videos during his performances even though it is distracting to performers and others in the audience because it would be even more annoying to have ushers stop them from recording the moment.

As he talks about the history of the circus and the bankruptcies of Ringling Bros., Cirque du Soleil and Big Apple Circus, Wallenda notes that the bigtop has been forced to adopt to changing tastes in areas like the treatment of animals.

Wallenda is well aware that the circus has taken a few knocks in recent years (“SpongeBob makes fun of the circus”), but he remains focused on elevating the circus arts and earning the love and respect of his family’s audiences. Although the circus has welcomed misfits and outcasts during its 150-year-plus history, Wallenda downplays the opportunities for exploitation in favor of a message of acceptance. The circus welcomes different types of people who ultimately form a family, he says, even if

they aren’t related by blood.

At Sarasota’s Sailor Circus, Wallenda says the young performers are often introverts who get the chance to express themselves in the bigtop in a way that they wouldn’t in a classroom or on an athletic field.

Not that Wallenda is down on sports — he played high school football, and standing close to six feet tall and weighing about 230 pounds, looks ready to don shoulder pads if need be. Most of the strength required to hold up a human pyramid resides in his core, he notes.

As he ticks off his accolades and accomplishments, including setting 13 Guinness World Records, winning Emmy Awards for his TV performances and writing two books, Wallenda doesn’t seem boastful. His passion for his lifelong profession is obvious.

That’s why he goes out in the crowd and signs autographs that say “Never give up” after his performances.

“No one else does that, not Criss Angel, not David Copperfield,” he says, referring to the popular illusionist and magician, respectively. “I want to inspire people, to let them know they can overcome any obstacle.”

In every aspect of his life, Wallenda is determined to prove he deserves the title of “Sarasota’s hometown hero.”

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The big top will move to a spot near the Mall at University Town Center for the holiday show, “A Brave New Wonderland,” playing from Nov. 18 to Dec. 31.

Critic’s picks for Sarasota’s new live theater season

MARTY FUGATE CONTRIBUTOR

There are theaters of war, political theater and the theatrics of overdramatic relatives at expensive restaurants. These varieties of live theater are no fun at all. Don’t worry. Live theater on stage is a whole lot of fun — sometimes.

Like the little girl with a curl, when it’s good, it’s very, very good; when it’s bad, it’s awful. No worries. These six selections are very, very good. (A prediction based on my vast critical acumen and my Magic Eight Ball.) They will be coming to a theater near you before the year’s end. Enjoy.

‘RUTHLESS!’

THE SARASOTA PLAYERS

Here’s the story of a girl named Tina, an 8-year-old Shirley Temple from hell. This wannabe child star is dying to play Pippi Longstocking in a school play. When another kid gets the part, Tina decides that killing her is just the ticket. No, I’m not kidding.

Mayhem and merriment ensue — with no concession to good taste. Marvin Laird and Joel Paley’s mordant musical has multiple satiric targets. It lampoons mid-20th-century shockers like “The Bad Seed” and “Whatever Happened to Baby Jane” — and simultaneously spoofs overwrought Broadway musicals like “Gypsy” about show biz ambition and psychotic stage mothers. Whatever the target, it’s bloody good fun. Directed by Scott Keys.

IF YOU GO

When: Sept. 27 to Oct. 15

Where: Players Centre, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 1130

Tickets: $30

Info: Call 365-2494 or visit ThePlayers.org.

‘THE SOUND INSIDE’ URBANITE THEATRE Talk, talk, talk. Our species can’t seem to shut up. Human lives are filled with arguments, agreements, dissensions, debates, insinuations and implied contracts that are never spelled out. Trust is always the key implied condition. If a pal 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 his student. Their words are all about words. Some words become deeds. Some shouldn’t. What do their words become? I won’t spoil it, but it’s chilling. Directed by Kristin Clippard.

IF YOU GO

When: Oct. 20 to Dec. 3

Where: Urbanite Theatre, 1487

Second St. Tickets: $42 Info: UrbaniteTheatre.com.

‘CRAZY FOR YOU’ ASOLO REP

Ken Ludwig’s madcap musical is a loose adaptation of George and Ira Gershwin’s “Girl Crazy,” the 1930 Broadway smash. Ludwig added a few more gags and picked up the pace, but didn’t mess with the core story. (Spoiler alert: City slicker falls for hometown girl.) Along with that meet-cute encounter, he also put in cowboys, showgirls and high-energy production numbers. With toe-tapping Gershwin tunes like “Someone to Watch Over Me,” “Embraceable You” and “I Got Rhythm,” dancing in the aisles will be a temptation for theatergoers. (We figure the ushers will watch over them.) Directed and choreographed by Dennis Jones.

IF YOU GO

When: Nov. 15 to Jan. 4

Where: FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail

Tickets: $35-$95

Info: AsoloRep.org.

‘LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS’

FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE

The original horror show (Roger Corman’s 1960 flick) was a punk rock “Doctor Faustus” before punk existed. (Swap an evil alien vegetable for Mephistopheles and you get my point.) Alan Menken and Howard Ashman’s 1986 musical adaptation distills Corman’s black comedy — without the happy ending of Frank Oz’s movie. The plot? Audrey II, a trash-talking, carnivorous plant from outer space, seduces a nebbish named Seymour into feeding it fresh blood from freshly killed humans. Said nerd kills for all the right reasons: self-actualization, revenge against sadists, true love, etc. But good ends don’t justify bad means. Seymour comes to a bad end — along with the whole human race. This dangerous vision was planted in my brain in 1987 when I first saw the musical at FST. Its seeds will be sprouting again soon there. Don’t miss it, baby. Directed by Sean Daniels.

IF YOU GO

When: Nov. 17 to Jan. 7

Where: FST Gompertz Theatre, 1265 First St. Tickets: $29 Info: FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

‘THREE SISTERS’ FSU/ASOLO ACTING CONSERVATORY

Anton Chekhov tackled every facet of the human condition. This play is about paralysis. The three sisters are all trapped in lousy situations and looking for a way out. Olga, the oldest sister, is a struggling school teacher. She selflessly tries to help her younger sisters and hold onto their family home. But Olga’s two siblings prove hard to help. Masha’s marriage is empty; her affair with a

young colonel isn’t. Irina gives her love to a passionate suitor as a ploy to skip town with him. Romantic delusions, good intentions — the sisters’ motives don’t matter. Daily life defeats the escape attempts of all three. That sounds depressing, but it isn’t. Chekhov had been a physician; as a writer, he wasn’t a fatalist. There’s hope (and possibility) in every scene. In the end, the sisters stay stuck. But they don’t have to be. They still have choices  — and always did. Directed by Andrei MalaevBabel.

IF YOU GO

When: Oct. 27 to Nov. 19

Where: FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail

Tickets: $32

Info: Call 351-8000 or visit AsoloRep.org/Conservatory.

‘JOYFUL! JOYFUL!’ WESTCOAST BLACK THEATRE TROUPE

There’s no stopping the holidays. Ineluctably, that means Santa Claus and Hanukkah Harry will be flying — and WBTT will unwrap a shiny box of seasonal song and dance. This year’s Christmas present reprises WBTT’s 2021 production of Nate Jacobs’ “Joyful! Joyful!” (Along with “A Motown Christmas” and “Black Nativity,” it’s joined WBTT’s annual rotation of holiday spectaculars.)

“Joyful! Joyful!” reimagines the holiday classics and mixes them up with soul and R&B classics by The Staple Singers, Earth, Wind & Fire, Stevie Wonder and others. If you’re sitting in the audience, the joyful experience lives up to its name. If the Grinch snuck in and secretly watched, he couldn’t help but smile. Directed by Nate Jacobs and choreographed by Donald Frison.

IF YOU GO

When: Nov. 29-Dec. 30

Where: WBTT Donelly Theatre, 1012 N. Orange Ave.

Tickets: $50

Info: Call 366-1505 or visit WestcoastBlackTheatre.org.

From the morbid to the merry, there’s something for everyone between now and year-end.

Sorcha Augustine

Vickie Daignault stars in Urbanite Theatre’s “The Sound Inside” from Oct. 20 to Dec. 3.

Courtesy photo

The soulful holiday spectacular “Joyful! Joyful!” plays from Nov. 29 to Dec. 30 at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe.

THIS WEEK

THURSDAY

‘SACRED LUNDY’

6 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 2256 Bahia Vista St.

$10

Visit PreserveSRQ.org

David Baber, vice president of the Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation, will conduct a tour of St. Paul Lutheran Church, which was designed by Sarasota School Architect Victor Lundy, followed by a presentation about Lundy and the church by author Christopher Wilson. The event is free for members of the church and the alliance.

MARK KLEIN

7 p.m. at McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre, 1923 Ringling Blvd.

$25

Visit McCurdysComedy.com.

Mark Klein’s clean comedy shows, which have been featured on CBS, Showtime and Sirius XM, focus on the things he knows best — bourbon, horse racing, family and freedom. Runs through Oct. 1.

‘UP ON THE ROOF’

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

$18-$39

Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

In the 1950s and 1960s, Manhattan’s Brill Building was home to songwriting duos such as Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, Carole King and Gerry

OUR PICK

‘THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE

SHOW’

“Do the time warp again” with Barry Bostwick as “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” celebrates its 48th anniversary. The performance features the live “shadow” cast Hell On Heels, host Larry Viezel and audience participation. You must be 18 to attend the show, which includes a memorabilia display and a costume contest.

IF YOU GO

When: 8 p.m. Saturday

Where: at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail

Tickets: $42-$72

Info: Visit VanWezel.org.

Goffin and Burt Bacharach and Hal David. Their iconic “Brill Sound” is showcased in this musical revue by Rebecca Hopkins and Richard Hopkins. Runs through Feb. 4.

‘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 Boys” veteran Vaden Thurgood has created his own musical revue for FST. The show 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.

‘RUTHLESS!’

7:30 p.m. at The Players Centre, The Crossings at Siesta Key $32 Visit ThePlayers.org.

The theater company now known as The Sarasota Players presents the morbidly funny tale of an 8-yearold who’s willing to go the distance to play Pippi Longstocking in her school play. Despite the youthful setting, the show directed by Scott Keys contains adult material. Runs through Oct. 15.

FRIDAY

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT: ‘COCO’

7:30 p.m. at The Oval, 1055 Boulevard of the Arts Free Visit TheBaySarasota.org.

Disney Pixar’s “Coco” takes the audience on animated song-filled journey about a boy’s quest to find his great-great-grandfather in the Land of the Dead. Bring blankets, chairs, family and friends for the magical screening under the stars.

Food and beverage will be available for purchase from the Simply Greek Food Truck. The first 100 people to arrive will receive a scoop of Rise Up Cafe ice cream.

OPENING NIGHT: 13TH ANNUAL

FABULOUS INDEPENDENT FILM

FESTIVAL

7:30 p.m. at Burns Court Cinema, 506 Burns Court $10 Visit FABAF.org.

The Fabulous Independent Film Festival kicks off with a screening of “Glitter & Doom,” a mind-blowing summer love story that unspools to the sounds of the Indigo Girls.

The celebration of LGBTQ cinema continues after the film with a party at 99 Bottles. Sponsored by the Fabulous Arts Foundation, formerly known as the Harvey Milk Festival, the fest features a program of

DON’T MISS

WBTT PRESENTS: THE JOSE RAMIREZ BAND

Last year, Jose Ramirez was signed by Chicago-based blues and jazz label Delmark Records, becoming the first Latin American artist in the label’s 70-year history. At WBTT, Ramirez and his band will play new and classic tunes, including selections from his second studio album, “Major League Blues.”

IF YOU GO

When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 30

Where: at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N. Orange Ave.

Tickets: $30

Info: Visit WestcoastBlackTheatre. org.

shorts, features and documentaries with LGBTQ themes. Runs through Oct. 1.

SUNDAY

‘THE VELVETEEN RABBIT: A TOY STORY’

10 a.m. at FST’s Keating Theatre, 1241 Palm Ave. $10 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

“The Velveteen Rabbit” tells the story of a child who gets a sawdustfilled rabbit as a gift. As the pair bond through the adventures in the child’s storybooks, they discover the power of love to make imaginary things real. Through Oct. 15 on selected weekend dates.

‘REEFER MADNESS’

2 p.m. at Pinkerton Theatre, Venice $37 Visit VeniceTheatre.org.

Last seen at Venice Theatre in 2008, the campy musical “Reefer Madness” is a hilarious sendup of the 1936 film with the same name that warned of the perils of marijuana. Runs through Oct. 8.

NEXUS CHAMBER MUSIC

4 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 2050 Oak St. $40 Visit ArtistSeriesConcerts.org.

Nexus Chamber Music opens the

Artist Series Concerts season with featured emerging artists Alexander Hersh on cello, Stephanie Zyzak on violin and Evren Ozel on piano.

MONDAY

MATT DENDY

5 p.m. at Marina Jack’s Blue Sunshine Patio, 2 Marina Plaza Free with orders from the menu Visit MarinaJack.com.

Unwind after a day at the beach or the office with the sounds of Matt Dendy, who has been a resident violinist for St. Martha’s Catholic Church since 1993. Dendy has also performed with Asolo Repertory Theatre for multiple seasons and has played as a first violinist for the Venice Symphony.

WEDNESDAY

SAM ART TOUR 5:30 p.m. at Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail $15; members free Visit SarasotaArtMuseum.org.

Learn about the contemporary art museum’s latest exhibitions, including “Reassembling Spilt Light: An Immersive Installation by Carlos Bunga” and “Surface Pressure,” which celebrates the multimedia work of Chakaia Booker, in this tour hosted by the museum and Willis Smith Construction. Drinks will be provided.

401 North Tamiami Trail

Osprey, FL 34229

Courtesy photo

Waiting for Wolfie’s

MONICA ROMAN GAGNIER ARTS+ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

Sarasota’s prodigal deli king is back in town, and he’s got a new home in the Rosemary District, where he is the executive chef of the Original Wolfie’s.

Sol Shenker, who has won a devoted following in Sarasota for his New York deli-style food at several different eateries, has been living in Colorado, where his wife has been attending veterinary school.

The marquee above the eatery where Shenker and his treasured recipes for matzo ball soup, pastrami and swiss on rye and cheesecake will soon be found reads the “Original Wolfie’s.”

The space will also house a nightspot brethren, Wolfie Cohen’s Rascal House. You’ll find them at 1420 Boulevard of the Arts, sandwiched between two theatrical venues — the Sarasota Ballet School and the Sarasota Players.

Nearby, at 1436 Boulevard of the Arts, is what is being called Wolfie’s Box Office, which will offer takeout options from the storied Jewish delicatessen.

The pedigree of the new deli reads like a list of credits from a Broadway show. According to marketing materials, its menu features favorites from such South Florida historic delis as Wolfie’s, Pumpernik’s and Rascal House, as well as Jerry’s Famous Deli of Southern California.

Sarasota’s incarnation of the Original Wolfie’s will arrive sometime in October, a few months after the New York-style Palm Avenue Deli opened downtown in July. The obvious ques-

tion is: Can Sarasota support two new New York-style delis, even if one is downtown and the other is in the Rosemary District?

The answer is a resounding yes, according to Shenker, whose restaurant resume in Sarasota goes back 23 years. In fact, says Shenker, there’s room for even more competition in what he calls the “Jewish food space.”

It’s a familiar argument to those old enough to remember when department stores Macy’s and Gimbel’s were located within a block of each other in New York’s Herald Square. In other words, competition is good for everybody. “I’ve been to the Palm Avenue Deli at least 20 times since it opened,” Shenker says.

What the competition doesn’t have is chef Shenker, who has catered many a wedding and bar mitzvah during his years in Florida. He has won a flock of customers as he has moved from places like the former Embassy Suites hotel and its later incarnations to Sol’s NYC Delicatessen in a former Applebee’s on Main Plaza. Back in 2016, Sol’s NYC Deli was forced to move to make room for a new development in Main Plaza.

In many ways, hooking up with the investors who are bringing Wolfie’s and its Rascal House to Sarasota is coming full circle for Shenker. He once worked at the Rascal House in Miami, a onetime hangout for gangsters like Meyer Lansky, although that was before Shenker’s time.

Like many a restaurateur, Shenker has had his ups and downs in the business, including a dispute with his relatives over one of his previous delis.

But where the Culinary Institute of America grad and his cheesecake

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Registration is now open and is $45 per registrant.

All registrations will include a commemorative t-shirt, souvenir race bib, and certificate of completion.

2542 17th St., Sarasota, FL 34234 941.366.2404 | www.catdepot.org

recipe go, his customers will follow.

Shenker waxes nostalgic about his time at Sol’s NYC Deli, and how an elderly gentleman once sent a note in Yiddish into the kitchen comparing the chef’s matzo ball soup favorably to that made by the customer’s mother.

As he took a break from working with electricians at the new Wolfie’s to grab a cup of joe at the nearby Project Coffee in the Rosemary District, Shenker was greeted with open arms by a former legal associate. (We’ll take that as a good sign.)

There’s a lot of mystery surrounding Original Wolfie’s. It’s opening “sometime in October,” says Shenker.

He will not reveal where his bagels, bread and deli meats are being sourced, except to say they are coming from New York. He also declined to name the new eatery’s owner.

The only thing that Shenker loves more than Jewish food and his customers is his wife, Marta. Shenker met the former ballerina in the

Catskills 12 years ago, and they’ve been inseparable ever since.

He followed Marta to Colorado, where she is studying veterinary science, and has been commuting back and forth between homes in Florida and the Rocky Mountains.

Try managing that lifestyle along with the care and feeding of six chihuahuas and volunteer work with the Humane Society. It might require a takeout Wolfie’s sandwich on rye — or two — to help you power through.

Intimate musical experiences.

Season 28 | Stars Ascending

NEXUS Chamber Music

October 1 • 4:00 pm • First Presbyterian Church

Back by popular demand!

Ilya Yakushev, piano

October 10 • 7:30 pm

Historic Asolo Theater

Winner of the 2005 World Piano Competition, Yakushev will be joined by a string quartet, including Daniel Jordan, concertmaster of Sarasota Orchestra, for Shostakovich’s Piano Quintet and Mussorgsky’s “Pictures at an Exhibition.”

Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota offers a diverse range of 26 concerts featuring emerging and accomplished classical, chamber, jazz, and pop artists from around the globe.

This Chicago-based chamber music collective creates engaging classical music experiences for a broad audience. Co-founder Alexander Hersh is joined by Marlboro Music Festival alums Stephanie Zyzak and Evren Ozel in a program of piano trios by Haydn, Brahms, and Ravel. Full concert schedule/tickets: ArtistSeriesConcerts.org

Chef Sol Shenker’s Sarasota fans eagerly await the opening of his New York-style deli.

Monica Gagnier

Sol Shenker takes a break at Project Coffee in the Rosemary District near where the Original Wolfie’s will open in October.

Peter Acker

Executive Chef Sol Shenker will not reveal where the ingredients from Wolfie’s mouthwatering sandwiches will come from.

Designer Bag Bingo

Thursday, Sept. 21, at Lakewood Ranch | Benefiting Sisterhood for Good

Lakewood Ranch’s Samina Morrow double checked that the numbers punched through on her bingo card were the ones called before she stood up in front of more than 100 women to claim a luxury purse.

With assurances she had bingo, Morrow made her way up to the stage to collect her new Chloe purse during Sisterhood for Good’s annual Designer Bag Bingo on Sept. 21.

It was Morrow’s first time attending Designer Bag Bingo, which she said was more fun that she thought it would be. More importantly, she said she loved being able to give back to the community.

All the funds raised during the event are put toward grants Sisterhood for Good distributes to nonprofits throughout Manatee and Sarasota counties.

Last year, Sisterhood for Good raised $110,800 for grants for 32 nonprofits. The grants benefited 24,714 individuals in Manatee and Sarasota counties..

LIZ RAMOS

October 13th-October 15th

Church of the Redeemer

Bach and Beer – a perfect combination!

Key Chorale presents a 3-day festival celebrating the music of  J.S. Bach with 4 amazing concerts and concluding with a German Biergarten.

Fri, October 13, 7:30 PM Opening Concert

Sat, October 14, 11:30 AM Organ Recital & Bach’s Lunch

Sat, October 14, 7:30 PM Period Instruments Chamber Music Concert

Sun, October 15, 4:00 PM Closing Concert

Sun, October 15, 5:30 PM Biergarten Experience

Purchase your tickets today at: KeyChorale.org

941.552.8768

Purchase a 3-day pass & SAVE 15%!

Join

Lakewood Ranch’s Amy

look forward to raising money for the community. Selling raffle tickets is one way Sisterhood for Good is raising money.

Hermitage Sunsets @ Selby Gardens: “The Blurred Line Between Humor and Heartbreak: A Playwriting Workshop”

Thursday, October 5 @ 6pm Marie Selby Botanical Gardens (Sarasota)

Writer, actor, and Hermitage Fellow Halley Feiffer’s most recent project as writer and showrunner for “American Horror Story — Delicate,” has been described as fun, stylish, and ultimately terrifying by Ryan Murphy (“American Horror Story” creator) in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter

Come and hear more about how she has received critical acclaim in the first of the 2023-2024 “Hermitage Sunsets @ Selby Gardens” programs. Presented in partnership with Marie Selby Botanical Gardens and The Players Centre.

To register (required) for upcoming programs: HermitageArtistRetreat.org

Photos by Liz Ramos

Lakewood Ranch’s Karen Medford and Jackie Tamminga look forward to supporting Sisterhood for Good and its mission.

Alison Chafing makes her way down the runway.

Bradenton’s Christina Sisti, Parrish’s Kim Bailey, Lakewood Ranch’s Peggy Kronus and Sarasota’s Tanya Peters are ready for a fun night of playing bingo while raising money for area nonprofits.

Osprey’s Leslie Williams sees what the silent auction has to offer during her first Designer Bag Bingo.

Gorman and Roz Bokoff

YOUR NEIGHBORS

Longboat restaurants provide deals on tasty food and drinks during everyone’s favorite time of the day.

PETRA RIVERA

STAFF WRITER

Everyone on Longboat Key knows the best time of the day is happy hour. And the restaurants on Longboat and St. Armands Circle do not disappoint. Here is where to find great eats, tasty drinks and sweet specials on the Key.

FOR DELISH DEALS: CRAB AND FIN

People become instant regulars as soon as they come to the Crab and Fin happy hour. The friendly staff, cozy coastal atmosphere and deals keep calling people back, even if they are just visiting the area.

Julie Lloyd frequently vacations on the Key with her family from Maryland. She said they come to Crab and Fin for happy hour every night of their vacation. “The ambiance is perfect and we already know all the staff, even though we don’t live here. It is so easy to feel at home here with the amazing service and food here.”

This is also a great place to watch football on Sundays and meet other fans in the area, such as George McArdle.

McArdle said he usually visits after he plays golf for a glass of half-priced wine and a chat with his favorite bartender, Michael Winters.

“Nothing beats Crab and Fin. Can you believe all the drinks are halfpriced? And you can sit in any of these chairs and have a great chat

with the bartenders or meet some new people who live here or are just visiting. It’s fun either way. Such a great place.” And here’s a tip from Andrew Vac: “Get to Crab and Fin and Chart House at 4 p.m. for happy hour because there is limited seating and it fills up fast especially during the season.”

Happy hour is available seven days a week from 4-6 p.m. at Crab and Fin. All craft cocktails, spirits, beer and wines are 50% off.

FOR BUSY BEES:

TOMMY BAHAMA RESTAURANT

It’s always island time at the Tommy Bahama Restaurant. Happy hour here consists of beautiful drinks and a variety of different bar bites. It’s a convenient place for business owners from around St. Armands to take a breather after a busy day or to spend some time with co-workers.

Clarita and Jorge Brinkerhoff are artists whose work is featured in Wyland Galleries next door. They stopped by for a happy hour in between art shows.

“This is our second day in a row that we are coming for happy hour,” said Clarita Brinkerhoff. “The food is excellent and the bartenders are so nice. The service is great and fast and such great deals. We also love that we could walk over.”

Happy hour at Tommy Bahama is every day from 3-5 p.m. It has an “Island Time” happy hour menu which offers $5 draft beer, $7 well

drinks, $8-9 wine, $9-11 cocktails and small plates that range from $8-11.

FOR A FAMILY FEEL: VENTURA’S ITALIAN KITCHEN AND WINE BAR

Creative is the perfect word to describe happy hour at Ventura’s Italian Kitchen and Wine Bar. This new restaurant puts a twist on everyone’s favorite time of the day.

Each night of the week has a different theme to keep people on their toes at happy hour.

Dia Wilson met longtime friend Andy Bennett here for happy hour. Bennett and her husband used to own Whitney Plaza.

“The place still gives the familial atmosphere that it did when I used to own it and I just love all the themes for happy hour,” said Bennett. “They work hard at Ventura’s and are doing such a great job at it.”

Every Monday, anyone who orders a martini gets a meatball with it. On Sundays, people can participate in the Ventura’s family tradition of Sunday gravy, which is meatballs, sausage and the weekly special meat slow-cooked all day to make thick sauce served with pasta. Other themes are Two for Tuesday, Wine Down Wednesday, Steak Night Thursday, and Pizza Night Friday.

Ventura’s is open for happy hour every day from 3-5:30 p.m.

FOR EARLY BIRDS:

LAZY LOBSTER When the Lazy Lobster opened on Longboat in 2009, co-owner Michael Garey said there weren’t many places to go for happy hour. He decided to change that.

“Back in those days, most restaurants on Longboat Key didn’t even

open for dinner until 5 or 5:30,” said Garey. “Hardly any had happy hours or reduced pricing on food back then.”

This early dining and happy hour is from Monday through Saturday, 3:30-5 p.m.

The menu features $7 house cocktails and wines, $4 domestic bottled beers and $8 martinis, Manhattans and brand cocktails. The early dining menu offers 10 complete entrees for $20 and under and four lobster entrees under $30.

Guests need to be seated by 5 p.m. for early dining, but happy hour pricing runs until 5:15 p.m. to allow guests to enjoy one more round.

FOR SOCIAL BUTTERFLIES: CHART HOUSE

“During the season, we literally have to put the chain on the door because there is always a line to get in,” said Kailyn Collee, Chart House bartender.

Longboaters raved about the Chart House happy hour. Medge Jaspan from the Holistic Healing Center of Longboat Key said this happy hour is perfect for creative drinks, tasty food and great views.

Jaspan added that she would go to this happy hour every day if she could. She loves how personable the bartenders are and the variety of food and wine options.

Collee said she loves how many regulars they have because their customers are getting good deals for their money. She enjoys giving recommendations to anyone who comes in.

Happy hour at Chart House is daily from 4-6 p.m. Deals include $6-12 bar bites, $6-8 wine, $5-7 spirit and $8 cocktails.

Photos by Petra Rivera

George McArdle makes a toast at Crab and Fin happy hour.

Dia Wilson and Andy Bennett during Happy Hour at the Ventura’s Italian Kitchen and Wine Bar.

Pomegranate martini at Chart House’s happy hour

Cheeseburger Sliders and a Pineapple Paradiso at Tommy Bahama’s happy hour

New president carries forth mission

Before moving to LBK, Kiwanis President Christopher Sachs worked in publishing on magazine titles Men’s Journal and National Geographic Adventure.

PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER

Since the week he moved to Longboat Key, Christopher Sachs has been dedicated to the mission of the Kiwanis Club. Now, it’s time to take his passion to the next level by stepping into the role of president.

Sachs grew up in New England, coming down with his family to Longboat Key as snowbirds throughout his childhood. He worked in the publishing business for several well-known magazines, including Men’s Journal as the ad director and National Geographic Adventure as the founding publisher.

Sachs moved to Longboat Key fulltime in 2017 and joined the Kiwanis Club in that same year. His term as Kiwanis Club president will start at the next bi-monthly brunch.

How did you get involved in the Kiwanis Club?

I was somewhat affiliated with Kiwanis back in Connecticut, but back then it was really more of like a networking thing for young business professionals.

When we moved here, they kind of ushered us into it rather quickly. My wife met Lynn Larson, who became the president of Kiwanis the following year. She and my wife met in a hair salon the first week we came down here. We quickly found that it was just a really wonderful collection of like-minded individuals that just want to do good things and stay involved.

What has your involvement looked like?

I’ve been the captain of the Kiwanis/Salvation Army annual bell ring-

ing. That’s at Publix every year. It starts the first Friday after Thanksgiving. That’s been a very successful event for us. In fact, I’ve been told by the Salvation Army that the Longboat Key Publix location raises more individual donations than any other location in Manatee and Sarasota County.

What does the Kiwanis Club mean to you?

It really starts with kind of the charitable aspect of wanting to make someone else’s life better. It speaks to people who are educated, involved, curious and kind people that truly want to make a difference. It makes it different than a typical social club of some sort. We’re always talking about what can we do next and what can we do better.

It’s that sum of caring individuals, especially the stage in their life where they’re looking more in terms of giving back as opposed to where they’re going.

It’s a wonderful DNA that holds strong people together, rather than being the development and networking of business careers. It really is a sense of giving back charitable and philanthropic operations and people still getting involved.

What is your favorite part about the Kiwanis Club?

The camaraderie and fellowship and just the wonderful individuals that are all drawn to this mission-based club. It’s the people that make it what it is. We are a small and very dynamic group. We call ourselves small and mighty in service to the Kiwanis motto of just really doing the most good for children.

What are your goals as the president?

I’m just trying to maintain the club just like Michael Garey and the previous presidents. I am looking forward to really putting the pandemic behind us and helping people come out and reach out through their involvement and just participation or just life in general.

My primary goal is to carry on and carry forward the impact that we’ve had in the community, especially with children, the difference that Kiwanis has made and just carrying that tradition forward, and perhaps hopefully expanding members along the way.

File photos

Chris Sachs, Glenda Leonard and Ed Krepela at a Kiwanis Club meeting in 2022.

Tammy and Chris Sachs with bells up in front of Publix on Bay Isles Road.

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From Wall Street to the Key

PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER

Just because she lives by the beach now doesn’t mean Catherine Avery is taking it easy.

After years of working on Wall Street, Avery of Catherine Avery Investment Management works hard on Longboat to make sure her clients are educated about their investments and are reaping the rewards.

Avery was recently nominated for Investment News Women’s Portfolio Manager of The Year. This award recognizes a female portfolio manager who works with investor clients and has shown excellence over the past 12 months. It is a part of Investment News’ Women to Watch issue.

Avery has been interviewed on Bloomberg several times about topics relating to inflation and her predictions on the investment market.

“As you’re thinking about going into retirement, you need a stream of income,” said Avery. “One of the things as people get older, you spend a lot more money trying to stay healthier and younger so you can enjoy your life. Unfortunately, even after the great financial crisis, when inflation basically went down to zero, medical costs, hospitalizations, drug prices were still accelerating at really high rates. These are the things that you consume more as you get older. So you need to have some component of your portfolio that’s going to help you stay ahead of inflation and provide a bit of predictability and  income stream.”

CAIM focuses on strengthening and protecting its clients’ longterm investment goals by creating dividend yielding portfolios with volatility. Avery emphasized CAIM’s ultra-personal strategy to be able to

educate its clients and keep them engaged in their investments. Its clientele mainly focuses on conservative investors, baby boomers and women.

“After coming out of the big Wall Street firms, I saw the need for helping women with their investments,” said Avery. “I noticed that women were not getting what they needed from a lot of the big Wall Street firms. So I wanted to be able to offer them something in my firm. We get a lot of women who are divorced, widowed, single, working, some of them are married. I can’t actually say that there’s a specific type of woman but women who want to take a little bit more control of their money themselves, too. And sometimes they want to have something different from what the husband has, which is great.”

Avery is originally from Brooklyn, New York, and graduated from New York University in 1985 with a bachelor’s degree in finance. She has more than 30 years of portfolio management experience. Before starting her own investment firm, Avery was vice president of Morgan Stanley Invest-

ment Management for nine years.

In 2007, Avery started CAIM in Connecticut. When most of her loyal investors started to move to the west coast of Florida, she thought it would be the perfect time to embrace her love for the beach and follow them. Avery moved CAIM to the area in 2021. CAIM’s office is located in Mediterranean Plaza on the Key but her clientele lives all over the west coast of Florida.

Over her many years of working in the industry, Avery said she has loved every part of her job and wouldn’t

choose any other career.

“I love the fact that we can get really into the nitty gritty in our research and analysis and selecting the stocks that go into the portfolio,” said Avery. “I really love being able to work with the clients because I get to see the fruits of what I’ve done. It’s great that you have good performance in the portfolios and seeing it actually make a difference in clients’ lives.”

Catherine Avery was nominated for Women’s Portfolio Manager of the Year. Her firm applies an ‘ultra personal’ touch.

Petra Rivera Catherine Avery of Catherine Avery Investment Management was nominated for Investment News Women’s Portfolio Manager of the Year.

“I noticed that women were not getting what they needed from a lot of the big Wall Street firms. So I wanted to be able to offer them something in my firm.”

— Catherine Avery

FL 34236

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An Infinity home on GMD tops sales at $5.7 million

ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR

Ahome in Infinity tops all transactions in this week’s real estate. William and Francine Forster sold their Unit C301 condominium at 4765 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Mary Mooty Kileen, trustee, of Longboat Key, for $5.7 million. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, four-and-a-half baths and 3,640 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $3,241,300 in 2016.

JOHN RINGLING ESTATES

Trevor and Kyle Schauenberg, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their home at 220 Coolidge Drive to Mark and Phyllis Zames, of Jamesville, New York, for $3.95 million. Built in 2020, it has seven bedrooms, sevenand-a-half baths, a pool and 3,514 square feet of living area. It sold for $3.15 million in 2021.

BAY ISLES

Maciej Kloptowski, of Sarasota, sold his home at 3210 Bayou Sound to Helen and Sergey Lozan, of Bellevue, Washington, for $1.31 million. Built in 1978, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,171 square feet. It sold for $350,000 in 1999.

CLUB LONGBOAT BEACH AND TENNIS

Adriana Pereira, of Clermont, sold her Unit 121 condominium at 5055 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Stanislaus Grajny and Hania Stowowy-Grajny, of Diamond Point, New York, for $800,000. Built in 1973, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,484 square feet of living area. It sold for $775,000 in 2022.

BAYPORT BEACH AND TENNIS CLUB

Barbara Kucharski, Julie Ann Burke

Nancy Ann Kelly and Gene Kucharski, trustees, of Grand beach, Michigan, sold the Unit 826 condominium at 826 Bayport Way to Mauro Privilegi and Joan Mackell, of Longboat Key, for $767,500. Built in 1981, it has two bedrooms, two

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS SEPT. 11-15

baths and 1,676 square feet. It sold for $249,900 in 1999.

SPANISH MAIN YACHT CLUB

David and Janet Selvig, trustees, of Beaufort, South Carolina, sold the Unit 38 condominium at 805 Spanish Drive N. to Janalyce Nugent, of Columbus, Indiana, for $632,500. Built in 1968, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,405 square feet of living area. It sold for $312,000 in 2015.

Janalyce Nugent and Robert Forste, of Columbus, Indiana, sold her Unit 210 condominium at 719 Spanish Drive S. to Samantha Brandreth, of Canton, Georgia, for $559,000. Built in 1971, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,237 square feet of living area. It sold for $235,500 in 2012.

SUTTON PLACE

Carmen DiDiano and Kathryn Quigley, of Wexford, Pennsylvania, sold their Unit T-11 condominium at 525 Sutton Place to Alex and Marta Vavra, of Morristown, New Jersey, for $599,000. Built in 1972, it has one bedroom, one bath and 1,450 square feet of living area. It sold for $219,500 in 2011.

TOP BUILDING PERMITS

Courtesy of Reid Murphy

William and Francine Forster sold their Unit C301 condominium at 4765 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Mary Mooty Kileen, trustee, of Longboat Key, for $5.7 million.

Celebrating 50 YEARS of Living and Working on Longboat Key

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CathyMeldahl@michaelsaunders.com

YOUR CALENDAR

JoDene Moneuse

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 4

SO YOU WANT TO SAIL THE MEDITERRANEAN?

6-7:30 p.m. at Sarasota Sailing Squadron, 1717 Ken Thompson Parkway. Join Captain Ron Babinsky as he shares his experiences from two months of sailing a 45-foot monohull boat from Italy to Croatia, including a travelogue with pictures, beginning in Genoa and ending in Split. Register on SarasotaSS.Rechub. net/Event/7830.

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 open again on Oct. 2. 9 a.m. to noon at 6140 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Donations are accepted during business hours. 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.

BEST BET

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, SEPT. 29-OCT. 1

ST. ARMANDS CRAFT AND SIDEWALK FESTIVAL

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at St. Armands Circle Park, 1 St. Armands Circle. Free. For two days, guests will enjoy works from more than 175 artisans and craft persons participating in this fun event. Call 561-746-6615 for any questions.

MAHJONG

From 1-3 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Fun time for 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 SUNSET YOGA

6:30 p.m. at Bayfront Park, 3970 Royal Road, Longboat Key. Free. Yoga instructor Angela Mali leads a holistic yoga class at 7 p.m. most Thursdays near the public beach access by Bayfront Park, weather permitting. This relaxing and engaging yoga class is appropriate for all ages and levels. Enjoy the sunset while practicing breath work, poses and gratitude. RSVP before class with a call or text to 618-789-7226.

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Longboat

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Crow”

68 Condition for which

Temple Grandin is a spokesperson

70 Mimicked

71 “Slithy” creature in “Jabberwocky”

72 Orange juice brand

73 Flair or Ocasek

74 Many Zagreb residents

78 ___ gin fizz

79 Musical Greek god

80 Way out there, and how

82 “Thirtysomething” star

83 Commanders on the front line?

85 Inside scans (Abbr.)

86 Missy in the Songwriters Hall of Fame

87 Arms for Force-ful people?

89 Apt rhyme for “pitch”

93 Instrument in a jazz combo

95 Emperor of India known as “the Great”

96 Attach, as a corsage

97 Pursue, as a lead

98 Fusses

99 Worker that fills in gaps, for short

100 Water, for a Super Soaker

102 Workplace watchdog (Abbr.)

105 “Delicious!”

106 Pacific tuna

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