A longtime member of the Longboat community, Reggie Gurland, turned 107 on June 23. Though Gurland recently moved to Englewood with one of her sons, Diana Spanos said her Longboat legacy continues. Spanos and Gurland were neighbors for many years and grew close. For Gurland’s birthday, Spanos and a group of Longboat residents went to visit her for a party.
Gurland moved to Longboat in 1976 and had a house in Sleepy Lagoon. She was very interested in ceramics and taught classes out of her Longboat residence. She’s well-known for selling her artwork around the Key.
Giving thanks
Move over Christmas in July.
The Lazy Lobster threw its second annual “Thanksgiving in June” food drive as an excuse to eat everyone’s favorite meal of the year again and give back.
From June 24-27, customers could enjoy a traditional turkey dinner at the Lazy Lobster. Everyone who brought five nonperishable items to donate to local food banks received a $10 “Lobster Loot” certificate or “Kacey’s Kash” certificate. The deal also took place at the Lazy Lobster’s two sister restaurants, Kacey’s. All donations went to Meals on Wheels Plus and All Faiths Food Bank.
Co-owner Michael Garey said all restaurants were packed this week because of the popularity of the meal. General Manager Mike Frashier said the donations were overflowing each night with multiple packs of canned food in bulk and big jars of nonperishable items.
Roundabout reconsidered, again
Petra Rivera
Brigette Kubin and Mike Frashier
Courtesy image Reggie Gurland and her two sons, Mel and John.
James Peter
Petra Rivera
Rossy Weiss, Ashley Watts and Kim Verreault during Cafe L’Europe’s first fashion show on June 25.
Smarter messaging
Commissioners show support for installing new welcome signs for the town that would include digital display boards.
CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER
Longboat Key town commissioners recently reaffirmed their support for the town’s Information Technology department to pursue digital display boards for the town to enhance mes-
saging.
At the June 17 budget workshop, IT Director Jason Keen presented initial cost estimates, while commissioners furthered discussions about design options and the use of digital display boards.
Out of the $9,164,258 budgeted for streets capital projects in fiscal year 2025, the town set aside $150,000 for the digital display board projects.
Town Manager Howard Tipton explained to commissioners that current town ordinances generally prohibit electronic signs.
“There is generally a prohibition against digital signage on the island, except for government,” Tipton said.
“Which is nice; it allows you to have
that uncluttered look as you go up and down GMD.”
However, as long as the town is clear in its messaging, the display boards would be permitted.
“It would be government-related news … we just want to make sure that we’re clear with that,” Tipton said. “This is not as much a community signboard as it is a government signboard.”
That said, the boards would not be used to promote community events for Longboat Key organizations. Rather, the boards could be used to inform residents about ordinances like the lighting restrictions for sea turtle nesting season or in emergency situations like flooding or gas
leaks.
There are two main options for digital display boards from the estimates Keen received from Robson Sign. Robson Sign has completed digital display signage projects for Manatee County and other municipalities.
The town could opt for single- or double-sided digital signs. With double-sided signs, the messaging would appear on both sides, whereas for single-sided signs, the messaging would only appear on the side facing traffic coming onto the island.
“The only caution to a dual-side is traffic coming from the other direction could be distracted,” Keen said.
Keen added that since Longboat Key has an active pedestrian community, distracted drivers may cause traffic issues that could affect pedestrians.
Additionally, there was a discussion about what the signs should look like. Commissioners and Keen agreed that the new digital signs should reflect the community feel of Longboat Key.
“My recommendation is we would do a design that would fit the look and feel of Longboat,” Keen said.
Commissioners agreed that the digital display boards should look similar to the town’s new signs, like the ones at Bayfront Park or the Town Center Green.
The base of the sign could be anything from aluminum to faux stone.
Single-sided aluminum base signs could range in price from $30,000 to $50,000 per sign. For single-sided faux stone, the price would be around $35,000 to $76,000 per sign.
Double-sided signs with an aluminum base were estimated to cost
around $6,000 to $10,000 per sign, whereas the double-sided faux stone signs would cost about $15,000 to $50,000 per sign.
As for the digital display board itself, the board would come in full color with video and text, with a five-year warranty and all necessary software included.
Keen said the signs would be around the same size as the town’s current signs, or about 80-100 inches wide.
District 4 Commissioner Debra Williams was in favor of the doublesided board and asked if it would be possible to program them in a way that only one side would be used on a daily basis but both sides could be used in emergency situations to blast out messaging.
Williams and Vice Mayor Mike Haycock advocated for a third sign located mid-Key. Both said the location would be crucial for getting messages to residents who may not leave the island frequently, if at all.
“It’s really critical that people get information, who are maybe not leaving the island,” Williams said.
For example, in the case of flooding from storm events, residents going to Publix would be able to see the digital signs and be alerted to roads that may be flooded.
Tipton said staff would look into the option and whether the current location in front of Bicentennial Park would be the best place for a midKey sign.
Keen said he would take the information from the discussion and go forward with a plan for digital display boards that fit the look and feel of the community.
File images
An example of a digital display board in Sarasota.
Existing signs for the town of Longboat Key
METAL AGIC
Forced to move because of redevelopment, pipe-bending artist Scott Gerber (the Tube Dude) finds a new home.
ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER
Scott Gerber calls his Tube Dude creations “art a la carte.”
Given the nomadic history of his company in and around Sarasota, perhaps it could be called “art on a cart.”
Part sculptor, part metal fabricator and, most recently, part powder coater, Gerber’s multiple moves from downtown to St. Armands then back to downtown have been capped off with him landing in south Bradenton.
There, Tube Dude has more than twice the space he had before to create whimsical metal sculptures from the original classic mailbox to mermaid outdoor showers.
What began in 2010 as the former yacht builder found himself in the throes of a shrinking market due to the Great Recession has blossomed into a global business. Tube Dudes and Dudettes, along with mailboxes in the design of aquatic birds and sea life, pets, wildlife and large exhibition pieces, can be found on display around the world.
Tube Dudes and Dudettes are custom made to represent owners’ professions, recreation interests, lifestyles and more, all with the trademark face with a cheek-tocheek grin meeting large round eyes.
Now in his new 16,712-squarefoot space at 2306 60th Drive E., more than double the square footage he had at 1710 Main St., Gerber and his staff of five are in expansion mode. That includes an investment of some $100,000 for powder coating equipment necessitated by lagging turnaround in outsourcing that step in production.
Now he offers powder coating to other fabricators.
“One of the reasons why we moved into a building so large is we got into the powder coating ourselves,” Gerber said. “That’s a 500-degree oven, and every time that door opens, a lot
of hot air comes out. Now my painter has a whole area to himself, and he’s able to keep it super clean with no grinding, no cutting, nothing else on that side of the building.”
Gerber is also adding a line of marine furniture that, like the sculptures, are made of marine-grade aluminum and powder coated for coastal environment durability.
Tube Dude’s latest move wasn’t voluntary, but it is serendipitous — trading high visibility for square footage. The space the business occupied for five years at the corner of Main Street and Pine Place, along with the rest of the block, will be razed to make way for an apartment building.
“The city tried to kick us out when we first moved in because they said that what we were doing was industrial, but it just so happened that we didn’t meet the city’s definition of industrial, but we did meet the definition of an artist’s studio,” Gerber said of his prior location. “We had five wonderful years there, and it was great because very few places in a metropolitan situation can you do welding and grinding and cutting and all that. It was great for our customers because they would get to come see how the art developed.”
Examples of Tube Dude’s work are scattered throughout the city, St. Armands and Longboat Key, the most visible pieces being the wide variety of mailbox designs. Gerber said the mailbox is like the business card of a home, making an impactful first impression and providing a hint of the owner’s personality.
Mailboxes embedded in flamingos, ibis, sandhill cranes and others are prominent, but there are also surfers, octopus, tennis players and more, the portfolio limited only to the customers’ imaginations.
The vast majority of the more than 10,000 pieces produced by Tube Dude, Gerber said, start as custom designs by request.
THE CLASSIC
After shuttering his yacht-building company and laying off 40 employ-
BIG PRAISE FROM LITTLE DUDES
Of all the accolades Scott Gerber has earned from customers, the most satisfying he said he receives are from kids.
“It’s when a 3-year-old would come into the gallery and has a vocabulary of maybe 100 words, and it just about brings tears to your eyes when they point to a piece and say the words ‘tube dude.’ It’s impossible to not smile.”
ees, Gerber sought a business that would help lift him out of his funk. He turned to his expertise in metal fabricating and artistic inclinations to make people smile, thus the signature smiling face on all the dudes and dudettes that leave the shop.
He knew he was on to something while installing his first two pieces — identical classic mailboxes — one at a mansion in Tampa and one at a tiny bungalow locally.
“The first one I delivered was to a house that had to cost $20 million,” Gerber said. “It was all marble on the outside and they had three white Bentleys in the driveway. My second delivery was to a young couple whose house on a good day, maybe cost $50,000. It was the exact same mailbox, and no matter what their house cost, both customers loved their mailboxes just as much.”
The classic mailbox is now built, powder coated, delivered and installed — all by hand — for $1,800. According to the Tube Dude website, a peacock mailbox is priced at $4,200. In between are egrets, flamingos, mahi mahi, sailfish and more. There are also dudes and dudettes for gardening, sports, musicians, artists and dozens more.
The most expensive orders to date are the three-piece Piece, Love and Happiness installations in New York City and in Mexico City, commissioned at a price of $250,000.
Among the newest popular pieces is the mermaid outdoor shower, which sells for $4,200. Fully portable, all it requires is connection to an outdoor hose.
“They are all through the Caribbean,” Gerber said. “The whole East Coast is very receptive of them. It will cost you $3,000 just to have a plumber come out and install a piece of PVC pipe with a shower head on it. You can move it anywhere you want. One hand can hold your towels and your soap and you can hang wet bathing suits on the fingers.”
Also new are pool rails in the shape of blue herons, swans, dolphins, flamingos — practically any form aluminum tubes and sheets can be bent, welded, powder coated and installed.
GLOBAL REACH
The move out of downtown into an industrial park north of SarasotaBradenton International Airport will limit Tube Dude’s foot traffic visibility, but not its reach. Gerber credits Gallery Manager Susan Clark for the company’s profile on its website and on social media platforms.
He said a recent posting of a picture of flamingo pool rails drew more than 6 million views worldwide. As a result, “We just built 20 flamingo pool rails,” Gerber said.
Tube Dude also has a large customer base in the Northeast. The company’s contract installer is soon departing for The Hamptons with some 20 deliveries and a 6-foot heart to be installed at the New Jersey home of a top executive of Pulte Homes.
Celebrities are also fans of Tube Dude, among them country singer John Rich. Tube Dude recently built a “Guitar Dude” mailbox that will be delivered to his new home in Franklin, Tennessee.
Marketing efforts include select art shows, the next one in Texas. Gerber is designing pieces to appeal to that audience.
“Cowboys, of course,” he said. “Maybe a football player colored silver and blue.” Texas, Gerber said, is a fertile market. “We’ve never shown there, and we are right for Texas because everybody has a big yard, and they don’t like HOAs out there.”
Ironically, Gerber doesn’t have a Tube Dude mailbox at his own home.
“I don’t have one at my house only because I haven’t decided which one I want,” he said. “I would say that 99% of our creations are designs of our customers. I’m afraid to pull the trigger on one just because I know that my next great customer’s idea will be the one I really want.”
Until the next customer after that.
Andrew Warfield
Scott Gerber poses with a Guitar Dude mailbox made for country music star John Rich.
Andrew Warfield
Tube Dude owner Scott Gerber makes cuts in an alligator head fabricated from scratch.
James Peter This Tube Dude stands on Gulf of Mexico Drive on Longboat Key.
Something to bark about
The town paid $175,000 for artificial turf to be installed on the remainder of the Bayfront Park dog park.
CARTER WEINHOFER
STAFF WRITER
Greener grass is now at Bayfront Park’s dog parks.
Well, not real grass, but artificial turf. The turf was recently installed on the remaining 25% of the large-dog park and the entirety of the small-dog park.
The dog park at Bayfront Park offers dog owners an area where they can allow their dogs to be off-leash. The area is split between large- and small-dog areas.
ForeverLawn completed the project for a cost of about $175,000. The company uses K9Grass for dogfriendly spaces. According to the company’s website, the artificial K9Grass creates cleaner and better-smelling areas for dogs and their owners. The knitted “flow-through backing” allows for quick drainage and easy cleanup.
Additionally, antimicrobial technology helps to prevent the growth of harmful microbes.
Artificial turf, like K9Grass, typically comes with long-term durability and less maintenance costs compared to natural grass.
Shortly after the new turf was installed, Diane Weisman enjoyed the dog park with Kibble and Parker. As a frequent user of the park, Weisman said she liked the enhancements for aesthetics and canine enjoyment.
Originally, the Longboat Key Foundation had been attempting to collect donations for the project. But at the “Bark in the Park” event on March 1, Town Manager Howard Tipton informed attendees that the town would pay for the cost of the artificial turf and that any donations already made to the Longboat Key Foundation for the turf would go toward future projects at the park.
At that event, Longboat Key Foun-
dation Chair Jim Brown said construction would start around May. The project then took until about mid-June to complete.
Tipton said it was beneficial for the town to install the turf sooner rather than later, mainly from a maintenance perspective. He added that Public Works was looking at replacing the grass in the small-dog park.
One of the top suggestions raised by residents at Bark in the Park was the addition of lighting at the dog park. According to Streets, Facilities, Parks & Recreation Manager Mark Richardson, that’s the park’s next addition, which is slated to be installed in the upcoming months. Funds previously raised by the Longboat Key Foundation — about $16,000 according to Tipton — will be used for the lighting.
Richardson said in an email that the artificial turf brings benefits such as cost savings with staff not having to maintain the natural grass.
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Staff won’t need to have the grass replaced as often, Richardson added.
The dog park at Bayfront Park uses an existing irrigation system to regularly wash the permeable turf.
In addition to the benefits for Public Works, Richardson said the dogs won’t get as dirty or muddy with artificial turf compared to natural grass. This issue was brought up by residents in 2021 and one of the reasons behind the first artificial turf project.
PROJECT HISTORY IN BRIEF
In 2022, 75% of the large-dog park area was redone with artificial turf after the project was funded by resident Irene Hess, a frequent user of the dog park. Hess’ donation totaled $123,000.
Town commissioners formally accepted the donation from Hess and the Paul Klingenstein Family Foundation. The late Klingenstein was Hess’ father and a Longboat
Key resident. He was also a founder of Temple Beth Israel.
The Rotary Charitable Fund paired with the Paul Klingenstein Family Foundation back in 2014 to make the project a reality. Hess partnered with the Rotary Club due to the organization’s community service goals and proven track record, according to previous reporting.
The project replaced failing sod in 75% of the large-dog park, but the rest of the park was left with natural grass. Construction lasted from August 2022 to October 2022.
Prior to the first artificial turf installment, residents complained about how the sod was causing dirty paws and coats on dogs. A resodding project was then completed in summer 2021, but another was needed following the winter 2021 busy season. The resodding projects typically cost the town around $6,250 each time.
Photos by Carter Weinhofer
Kibble and Parker enjoy the turf at Bayfront Park’s dog park.
The new turf on the small-dog side of the park.
Roundabout hits roadblock
After the price tag soared with a new design prompted by FDOT, the commission asked staff to revisit alternatives.
ew designs for the Broadway Roundabout project came at a cost high enough for Longboat Key town commissioners to press pause on the project for now.
On June 28, Director of Public Works Isaac Brownman spoke with town commissioners at a special meeting to update them about the roundabout project.
Due to the Florida Department of Transportation’s previous notice of a necessary redesign, the project is now expected to cost more than $3 million more than what was expected — more than double.
Brownman explained that the Broadway Roundabout project has been in talks since about 2011, when a comprehensive plan discussion among commissioners led to the beginning of roundabout discussions.
“Basically, FDOT informed the town to create a normal-crowned roadway where one does not exist today, which is practically a full-blown road reconstruction.”
— Isaac Brownman
The idea for a roundabout specifically at the intersection of Broadway Street and Gulf of Mexico Drive was brought up in late 2014, which began the process for a feasibility study followed by a Project Development and Environment study by the Florida Department of Transportation.
The town’s fiscal year 2020 budget included $124,420 for the PD&E
“For a long time, this has been an intersection of use for pedestrians and bikers crossing it,” Brownman said. “It’s nothing new, but that has been enhanced as more development and other things happen.”
Study. During that time, FDOT decided the intersection did not meet any of the warrants, or criteria, to implement a traffic signal. Brownman explained that to install a traffic signal, the intersection has to meet just one of the criteria relating to vehicular volume, pedestrian volume, crashes or other factors.
From there, it was determined that a roundabout would be the best solution for intersection control to increase pedestrian safety.
The Broadway Roundabout project proceeded to design through 2022 and into 2023. Design costs
for the first roundabout were about $280,000, with Manatee County paying half of the cost, according to Brownman. The plans were at 90% when FDOT’s comments halted the project. According to FDOT, the road at the intersection needed a normal crown. Crowning is when a road is slightly elevated when going around a turn. A crown in the roadway typically increases speed, Brownman explained, and the purpose of a roundabout is to decrease vehicular speed.
Carter Weinhofer
The town of Longboat Key had to go back to the drawing board to redesign a potential roundabout at the intersection of Broadway Street and Gulf of Mexico Drive.
SEE ROUNDABOUT, PAGE 6
Roundabout
“Basically, FDOT informed the town to create a normal-crowned roadway where one does not exist today, which is practically a fullblown road reconstruction,” Brownman said.
It was back to the design phase to redesign the roundabout to include a normal crown. The road has to be excavated downward on one side and upward on the other, which has impacts on the drainage around the road as well as the length of the project along Gulf of Mexico Drive, Brownman said.
The original roundabout design did not include elements of the town’s Gulf of Mexico Drive Complete Street Corridor Plan, which includes a 12-foot-wide trail, seven-foot-wide buffered bike lanes and raised medians. Brownman said since a redesign was required, the town asked the engineers to include some of those elements where feasible.
The town spent $158,000 for the redesign, which is currently at 90%.
The plans were recently submitted to FDOT and, according to Brownman, received a couple of negative comments, which staff would debate if necessary.
But the new design also came with a higher opinion of cost — about $5.6 million. That doesn’t include construction engineering and inspection, which would bring the total cost closer to $6 million.
“That’s obviously substantially higher than anything we were contemplating in the original project,” Brownman said, adding that the estimate for the original roundabout was closer to $2 million or $2.5 million.
FDOT committed $1,685,000 before the redesign, the town budgeted $600,000 for FY25 and Brownman said Manatee County agreed to financial support, possibly around $500,000. Altogether, that’s $2.8 million.
“Unless DOT came forward and said, ‘We have $3.2 million for you,’ and they haven’t yet, it may be difficult to get this project to the finish
line,” Brownman said. The Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization has $4.86 million set aside in its longrange “Transform 2045” plan, but the money would not be available until 2030.
Co-Chair of Longboat Key North Paul Hylbert said that something needs to be done at the intersection, but the resident group he represents felt the roundabout was no longer the way to go with all the changes.
“We really need to address that intersection from a safety standpoint,” Hylbert said.
REEVALUATE THE ROUNDABOUT
With the new information, town commissioners discussed what the next steps could be.
Brownman laid out several options, one of which was an interim solution — installing pedestrian refuges, or medians, to allow for safer crossing at the intersection.
While that remains an option, the main focus of the commissioners’ discussion was to suggest taking a step back to reevaluate the roundabout.
Brownman noted that since 2019 — when the original traffic signal study was conducted — the northend community has developed significantly, including the expansion of restaurants. This increased traffic flow may produce different results that may warrant a traffic signal, which would be a less costly option.
Commissioners advised Brownman that if that’s the route taken, to ask FDOT to survey during the peak season to see the full impact.
With the commission going on recess for the summer, Brownman said his next steps were to pause the design and go back to FDOT for a “gut check” to see if the traffic signal study would be worthwhile.
“I’m going to mention that the roundabout project has gotten too big. It’s way out of scale with what the town had in mind, and we don’t have the funding to cover the additional cost,” Brownman said. Brownman said he would return in the fall with updates.
Register to lease short term
Properties citywide that operate as short-term rentals are required to register by Oct. 31.
ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER
The time has come for owners of vacation rental properties across Sarasota to begin registering their vacation rental properties with the city.
On Feb. 5, the Sarasota City Commission approved on second reading expanding the ordinance from the barrier islands to citywide. The ordinance goes into effect Jan. 1, 2025, but owners have between now and Oct. 31 to file their paperwork with the city.
The cost to register is $500, which includes an initial safety inspection by the city, with an annual renewal fee of $350 and a re-inspection fee, should one be necessary, of $100.
Until now, the city’s prior ordinance applied to the barrier islands only, about 135 properties.
The web-crawling Granicus software used by the city of Sarasota indicates more than 700 homes operated as vacation rentals on the city’s mainland, in response to which residents have complained about disruptions to the ease of enjoyment of their properties.
Requirements of legally operating vacation rentals within the city limits include:
n Minimum stay of seven full days and nights.
n All vacation rentals meeting the state’s definition are required to obtain a vacation rental dwelling license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
n Obtain a local business tax receipt certificate to operate as a vacation rental business.
n Obtain a certificate of registration with the city to advertise or operate as a vacation rental.
n Owners submit proof of active local and state licensure and tax requirements and inspection for minimum safety and informational standards.
n Pass city inspection.
Homes zoned single family are limited to 10 guests, or two people per bedroom, plus two additional persons.
Additionally, only guests registered to sleep in the vacation rental may be on the property between the hours of 11 p.m. and 7 a.m.
The city is required to post on its website a summary of the obligations of the property owner related to registration and operation of the vacation rental and the property owner is required to provide to guests details about the city’s noise ordinance. Parking is limited to vehicles that can fit in the driveway.
In addition to safety monitoring, requiring vacation rental property owners to register with the city provides a point of contact with the city government for neighbors in the event of disturbances resulting from the short-term rental use of homes in residential neighborhoods.
More information and registration forms for vacation rentals is available on the city’s website at SarasotaFL. gov.
Liz’s plan to keep Sarasota moving forward:
Drastically reducing the number of homeless individuals in the City
Creating and improving our public parks and green spaces, such as The Bay, Bobby Jones Golf Course and Nature Park, and the new playground and splash pad at Bayfront Park
Creating incentives to preserve our historic structures
Making our Downtown more vibrant and walkable while maintaining its charm
Championing incentives to create more attainable workforce housing
Increasing transportation options such as the trolley, electric scooters and bikes, and dedicated bike lanes
Working with our Arts & Cultural Institutions to make sure their future in our City is protected
Reducing violent crime and supporting law enforcement
Greatest civil document
The Declaration of Independence was much more than a secession from tyranny. It changed the world.
MATT WALSH
Editor’s Note: The original version of this was published June 29, 2023.
Happy Independence Day. On this day 248 years ago, while Americans declared their independence and established a new nation, the world also changed for the better — in ways that few at that time could imagine.
There is no debating: The founding of the United States of America has to be one of the Greatest Stories Ever.
From the Pilgrims settling at Plymouth Rock to the Declaration of Independence to the writing and adoption of the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights, to everything those events spawned over the past 248 years, America’s founding has to be up there with Creation; Moses and the Israelites’ 40-year journey to the Promised Land; and the birth, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Assuming you agree, it makes sense then that the Fourth of July is celebrated the way John Adams hoped it would be celebrated. After the Founders voted to adopt the Declaration of Independence on July 2, Adams wrote to his wife, Abigail: The Declaration of Independence “will be the most memorable epocha in the history of America.” He said the day should be “solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other from this time forward forever more.”
Through the generations, we Americans have obliged Adams’ wish with gusto — red, white and blue parades, topped with the quintessential American feast of grilled hotdogs, mustard, potato chips, corn on the cob, watermelon, homemade brownies and, yes, Bud Light. And the fireworks.
But this is a sad guess: If you walked Siesta Key beach and conducted Man (or Woman) on the Beach interviews, asking why we celebrate Independence Day, of course, many of us would cringe these days at the stupidity of so many Americans. You can envision the interview:
Interviewer: “Why do we celebrate Independence Day?”
Interviewee: “Uh, because we beat the Germans and Japanese in World War I?”
WHAT FOUNDERS DECLARED
This is the final paragraph of the Declaration of Independence — the “what” the Founders were declaring:
“We, therefore, the Representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, that these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do …”
Ugh.
Ever the optimist, we still want to believe most adult Americans do indeed know why we celebrate Independence Day. (See box above for the exact words.)
Throughout our history, Americans have instinctively invoked the words liberty and freedom with the Fourth of July. More specifically, of course, we are always reminded on this national holiday of Thomas Jefferson’s immortal words in the second paragraph of the Declaration: “We hold these truths to be selfevident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”
THE DEEPER MEANING
It’s probably true that most Americans at the time of the Declaration focused on the proclamation that they were no longer under the tyrannical rule of the British king and empire; they were free of his injustices, usurpations and pillaging. But in the words of the late President Calvin Coolidge, the Declaration “had a much broader and deeper significance than a mere secession of territory and the establishment of a new nation.”
In a 4,500-word speech July 4, 1926, in Philadelphia — on the 150th anniversary of the Declaration, President Coolidge delivered what should be regarded as one of the most insightful explanations ever recorded of the profound meaning of the Declaration of Independence. Coolidge called the Declaration “the most important civil document in the world.” And among the reasons for such a noble title, Coolidge said:
“Three very definite propositions were set out in its preamble regarding the nature of mankind and therefore of government. These were the doctrine that all
men are created equal, that they are endowed with certain inalienable rights and that therefore the source of the just powers of government must be derived from the consent of the governed.”
These were not new principles in the 18th century, but as Coolidge noted, these three principles “had never been assembled before and declared in such a combination.
“It was not only the principles declared, but the fact that therewith a new nation was born which was to be founded upon those principles and which from that time forth in its development has actually maintained those principles, that makes this pronouncement an incomparable event in the history of government.”
Absorb that. In 1776, that was the first time in world history anyone put on a piece of parchment that all men are created equal and endowed with the inalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
WHO IS THE STATESMAN?
It is noteworthy that 150 years after the issuance of the Declaration of Independence, President Coolidge spoke as he did about the profound nature and importance of Jefferson’s words — that they still stood steadfastly a century and a half later as the principles that defined the United States and that made the United States exceptional.
But now, nearly 100 years after Coolidge, when, if ever, do you hear our so-called national leaders discuss or profess an embracing conviction to the principles that all men are created equal and we all are endowed with the unalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness?
Keep your ears and eyes attuned to President Biden, Donald Trump and any candidate for a legislative position. Listen closely whether they express a vision whose principles and values would be devoted to those the Founding Fathers established.
Likewise, who among the many candidates has demonstrated the kind of character of the statesmenleaders who constituted our leading Founding Fathers? Who among those running for office has the stature to set foot in the same room as George Washington?
In the 2000 book, “Founding Brothers,” the Revolutionary Generation,” historian Joseph J. Ellis, gave readers a sense of the awe of Washington:
“In the America of the 1790s, Washington’s image was everywhere … His commanding presence had been the central feature in every major event of the revolutionary era: the linchpin of the Continental Army throughout eight long years of desperate fighting from 1775 to 1783; the presiding officer of the Constitutional Convention in 1787; the first and only chief executive of the fledgling federal government since 1789. He was the palpable reality that clothed the revolutionary rhapsodies in flesh and blood, America’s one and only indispensable character.
“Washington was the core of gravity that prevented the American Revolution from flying off into random orbits, the stable center around which the revolutionary energies formed. As one popular toast of the day put it, he was “the man who unites all hearts. He was
the American Zeus, Moses and Cincinnatus all rolled into one.”
Who among candidates today can possibly rise to the statesmanleader level of Washington, or, say, Abraham Lincoln or, in modern times, Ronald Reagan?
Lincoln at Gettysburg: “It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us — that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they here have the last full measure of devotion — that we here highly resolve that the dead shall not have died in vain — that this nation, under God, shall a new birth of freedom — and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”
Reagan at the 1964 Republican National Convention: “It’s time we asked ourselves if we still know the freedoms intended for us by the Founding Fathers,” he said.
“James Madison said, ‘We base all our experiments on the capacity of mankind for self-government.’
“This idea that government was beholden to the people, that it had no other source of power except the sovereign people, is still the newest, most unique idea in all the long history of man’s relation to man.
“For almost two centuries we have proved man’s capacity for selfgovernment, but today we are told we must choose between a left and right or, as others suggest, a third alternative, a kind of safe middle ground.
“I suggest to you there is no left or right, only an up or down. Up to the maximum of individual freedom consistent with law and order, or down to the ant heap of totalitarianism …”
When he concluded his Fourth of July address, Coolidge told his fellow Americans: “If we are to maintain the great heritage which has been bequeathed to us, we must be like-minded as the fathers who created it. We must not sink into a pagan materialism.
“We must cultivate the reverence which they had for the things that are holy. We must follow the spiritual and moral leadership which they showed. We must keep replenished, that they may glow with a more compelling flame, the altar fires before which they worshipped.”
BE RESILIENT
Deep down, we have to believe most Americans are longing for the end of the strife that has torn this great nation apart for the past 15 years. They are wrought and withered over being told the country they love and its past are evil. The enmity that splits us in half has become our Gettysburg.
As you wave your flag or fire up your grill on the Fourth of July, we’ll encourage you as we did in 2021: Wave that flag hard. Be resilient, as resilient as the pilgrims who landed at Plymouth Rock and as courageous as the Founding Fathers who pledged their lives, their fortunes and honor with their signatures on the Declaration of Independence.
Continue to believe in and practice the magnificent principles that all men are indeed created equal and stand strong for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
“If we are to build a better world, we must remember that the guiding principle is this — a policy of freedom for the individual is the only truly progressive policy.” Friedrich Hayek “Road to Serfdom,” 1944
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Friday, Dec. 19, 1777
Papa came in from milking and said,
“The soldiers are coming.”
Elisabeth, Sally and I hurriedly ate our porridge, then wrapped ourselves in our cloaks and scarves …
“I want to go see the soldiers,” Sally said. But Papa said we must stay by our fence.
“It’s too cold,” he said, as big flakes of snow began to fall. The fields were turning white, and the road looked like frosting with chocolate showing through.
Twice we went inside to warm ourselves, for the wind cut through our clothes. Finally through the gray we saw them. Three officers on horseback led. We ran outside to
cheer, but the men were quiet and thin. The sight of them took my breath away.
“They have no shoes,” Elisabeth whispered.
We watched for several minutes as they passed by. We were unable to speak.
Their footprints left blood in the snow.
As I write this upstairs, my candle low and our room cold, I think I shall never again complain. For many hours we watched the soldiers march single file into our valley.
Hundreds and hundreds were barefoot, the ice mud cutting their feet.
Some had rags wrapped around their legs because they had no trou-
sers … no trousers, imagine! Mama cried to see their misery. Without thinking, I ran up to a boy — he seemed to be Elisabeth’s age (15) — whose arms were bare. I threw my cloak over his shoulders, and the look of relief in his eyes is something I shall never forget.
Sally gave her mittens, and Papa wrapped his scarf around the neck of one poor boy playing a fife.
As the soldiers passed, I saw other families had done the same — if the Quakers had, I know not — but I recognized Mrs. Potter’s cloak, her blue one with red trim, and someone had draped a shawl over a small drummer boy. So many were coughing and had runny noses. Elisabeth said, “Can we not please bring some of them in to warm by our fire?”
When we saw the horseman riding back and forth among the men we knew him to be the Commander in Chief, George Washington. His cape fell below his saddle, and his tricorn was white from snow. I shall remember him always. He called continually to his soldiers, words of encouragement, and he had a most dignified bearing.
Editor’s note: The preceding is an excerpt from “Dear America — The Winter of Red Snow, The Revolutionary War Diary of Abigail Jane Stewart, Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, 1777.”
The book is historical fiction by Kristiana Gregory, an acclaimed author of American history written for middle grade and young readers.
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Setting record straight on PACE
Outlined below are inaccuracies in your recent editorial, “Moran, tax collectors in a Supreme Court fight,” published on June 27.
MISLEADING PRACTICES AND TAX BILLS
The column stated “tax collectors have sued Florida PACE, alleging PACE’s lending practices are misleading, often resulting in large increases in property tax bills and assessments that surprise homeowners and, in many cases, also have resulted in long-term tax liens being placed on homes.”
It’s important to clarify that Florida PACE Funding Agency ensures transparency through a recorded confirmation call where all terms are reviewed with the homeowner. This process includes multiple levels of affirmation to ensure understanding. Homeowners have the option to have another person on the call with them for support.
PACE LENDING PROGRAM
VS. FPFA
The column uses PACE and FPFA/ Florida PACE interchangeably. FPFA is one PACE provider among several. It’s crucial to differentiate between the broader PACE program and FPFA’s specific operations.
CONTRACTORS MISLEADING
HOMEOWNERS
The column said: “Tax collectors opposed to this have argued” … that the program’s contractors often
have misled homeowners.
FPFA does not assign contractors and does not have any affiliation with contractors. Licensed contractors (licensed by Florida’s Construction Industry Licensing Board) are approved to work with PACE clients. Homeowners select their own contractors after being approved for funding by FPFA, maintaining full control over this process.
In the PACE program, the contractor selected by the property owner agrees not to receive payment until the property owner is entirely satisfied. This stringent consumer protection measure sets PACE apart from other financing options.
Unfortunately, there have been cases where Florida PACE’s logo has been used by contractors on their advertisements. FPFA sues anyone who is illegally using their logos in a predatory manner.
EQUATING MIKE MORAN WITH FPFA
The column suggests that Mike Moran is personally suing tax collectors, stating “Moran and PACE also sued the collectors …” and referring to FPFA as “his” agency. It’s important to clarify that Mr. Moran as the executive director represents FPFA. The lawsuits and press releases are issued by FPFA, not Mr. Moran personally.
— PACE PROGRAM FLORIDA
LETTERS
Beach watch
Off-duty lifeguard saves seven people from rip current at Lido Beach.
OBSERVER STAFF
n off-duty lifeguard is credited with saving seven swimmers on June 22 when rip currents swept them more than 200 yards off Lido Beach, Sarasota County officials say.
Sarasota County Fire Department Lifeguard Mariano Martinez was relaxing at Lido Beach after his shift when he received a water rescue alert through a phone app, according to a news release from the county.
A storm had just passed through the area, creating conditions for rip currents — powerful channels of water capable of pulling even the strongest swimmers out to deeper waters.
Despite being off duty, Martinez said his instincts kicked in and he leapt into action, grabbing a rescue tube and entering the water.
Upon reaching the swimmers more than 200 yards offshore, Martinez discovered nine swimmers, most of them in distress.
Martinez, in Spanish, urged the group to stay as calm as possible. He quickly secured one swimmer with a rescue tube, helping a mother and daughter to shore before returning for five others. The remaining two people were able to swim out of the current and get to shore on their own.
He made multiple trips to rescue the remaining swimmers, using bodyboards to bring them back to shore safely.
“I have, always, in my car, or wherever I am, my rescue stuff because I love responding,” said Martinez, a six-year veteran lifeguard for the county, with 15 years of lifeguarding experience in his home country of Argentina.
“I can’t explain the feeling,” said Martinez. “You cannot explain when
you are watching a person and his or her life is in your hands.”
Six of the rescued swimmers were evaluated, and one was treated and released at the scene by Sarasota County Fire Department personnel.
“It’s days like this that make the work we do so rewarding,” said Sarasota County Fire Department Lifeguard Chief Rick Hinkson.
Rip currents are dangerous. Swimmers are advised to always stay near a lifeguard and know their limits. If there’s ever a doubt about whether they should enter the water, don’t take the risk.
If caught in a rip current, remain calm, signal for help, and swim parallel to the shore until out of the current’s grip, then head diagonally towards the shoreline, the news release said.
For Sarasota County beach conditions, visit VisitBeaches.org. Sarasota County Fire Department lifeguards are on duty, in their stands from 10 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. daily on six beaches: Lido, Siesta, Nokomis, North Jetty, Venice and Manasota.
Learn more about rip currents and rip current safety at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration site.
Courtesy image
Sarasota County Fire Department Lifeguard Mariano Martinez
Courtesy image
Mike Moran, executive director of Florida PACE Funding Agency, was the subject of a June 27 opinion column that sparked a letter to the editor in response.
700 feet of Pride
Members and allies of the LGBTQ+ community were highly visible the morning of June 29 on and around the John Ringling Causeway.
During the Grand Flag March led by Project Pride SRQ, around 700 community members marched with what, at 700 feet, is one of the world’s largest progressive Pride flags. They began at Hart’s Landing and walked to the center of the bridge.
“Today is a day of love and celebration,” said Jason Champion, president of Project Pride. “We are built off the fact of honoring, celebrating and supporting the community, and today is a great way to wrap up Pride month with stretching out that 700-foot flag.”
This year’s event took on new meaning due to Gov. Ron DeSantis’ “Freedom Summer” directive requiring all bridges be lit only in red, white and blue.
Jules Rayne, a community organizer at Equality Florida, was among the speakers to address the topic.
“LGBTQ+ is the prime example of what real patriotism is: the freedom from government tyranny, a place to live free, where everyone is created equal and imbued with life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” she said.
The event featured additional speakers, including Neil McCurry, husband of Project Pride cofounder Katie McCurry; Kira-Lynn Ferderber, an educator for Planned Parenthood; Tsi Day Smyth, VP of Voices of Florida; Sarah Parker, president of Women’s Voices of Southwest Florida; and Zander Moricz, executive director of SEE Alliance. — IAN
SWABY
Attendees, including Devin Gulliver (front), walk across the bridge.
Jessica Chapman and Cindy Lou Smith
Photos by Ian Swaby
Cindy Effron brings some bubbles to the scene.
Kaia and Lucile Desvenain
Dessert Club
When Tuesday, July 2, 2024
When Tuesday, August 6, 2024
3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Where Edward Jones 595 Bay Isles Road, Suite 260 Longboat Key, FL 34228
Where Edward Jones 595 Bay Isles Road, Suite 260 Longboat Key, FL 34228
COPS CORNER
FRIDAY, JUNE 21 STANDBY FOR SOS TRANSPORT
2:26 p.m., 200 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive
Animal Problem: An officer saw a group of citizens on the sidewalk near an osprey. One of the citizens said the osprey appeared to be hurt and Save Our Seabirds was already contacted. The rescue organization arrived within minutes and took it for emergency care.
SATURDAY, JUNE 22
PACK UP THE PICNIC
1:21 p.m., 3000 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive
SUNDAY, JUNE 23
HERON HELP
We hope you and a guest will join us. Please call Linda at 941-263-7821 or email linda.dillon@edwardjones.com by 07/30/2024.
We hope you and a guest will join us. Please call Linda at 941-263-7821 or email linda.dillon@edwardjones.com by 06/26/2024.
PUZZLE
Trespassing: A homeowners association representative alerted police to a family using a picnic table on private property. At the scene, the officer spoke with the representative, who said he confronted the individuals and told them they had to leave, but the group ignored him. The officer then located the family eating at the picnic table and told them the representative wanted them trespassed. The two adults signed the trespass warnings without an issue and left the area.
MONDAY, JUNE 24
NO FIREWORKS, JUST FOOTBALL
9:40 p.m., 3400 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive
Noise Disturbance: A caller claimed that fireworks were being set off by juveniles on the beach. When the officer arrived at the beach, he was unable to locate any juveniles. The officer then spoke with the complainant, who said the juveniles were playing football and setting off fireworks, but they had left after she told them she was calling 911. Then, the officer was able to spot a group playing football. The officer spoke with the father, who said they were playing catch when the complainant yelled at them for playing too close to the turtle nests. A bystander confirmed there were no fireworks involved and the children were playing football near the water and away from the nests. No violations were observed.
TUESDAY, JUNE 25
RANDOM TIRE TRACKS
4:53 a.m., 6300 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Suspicious Incident: Longboat Key
12:15 p.m., Jewfish Key Animal Problem: While on marine patrol, an officer was dispatched to check on someone yelling for the police. Upon arrival, the officer found the individual calling for help, who said he rescued an injured great blue heron bird. The officer took the bird from the boater and transported it to the town boat ramp. A Save Our Seabirds member met the officer at the boat ramp and took possession of the bird.
PD was sent to investigate reports of a golf cart driving on the beach. An officer canvassed the scene and found fresh tire tracks leading onto the beach, which were not there when the officer last checked a couple of hours prior. The officer called the findings into a sergeant, who then advised the officer that he observed a Public Works employee driving an all-terrain vehicle in the direction of the beach access. Pictures of the tracks were documented just in case.
DAMAGE DOCUMENTED
12:27 p.m., 800 Marbury Lane Civil Disturbance: Upon arrival at the scene, the complainant told police that a landscaping company had been parked in a neighbor’s driveway but also was blocking her driveway, which caused recent damage to her property. She claimed there was damage done to landscaping, underwater piping and other property items due to the large truck in an “extremely narrow street.”
Landscaping workers at the site at the time of the officer’s arrival had minimal English skills and did not provide any additional information, according to the officer’s report. Shortly after the officer’s arrival, a supervisor from the landscaping company arrived on the scene and worked out an agreement with the complainant.
Nesting defenses
Shorebird colonies on Longboat continue to grow with help from beachgoers and stewards.
Shorebird nesting is off to a good start on Longboat Key this season, and town officials are reminding beachgoers to be mindful of the nesting birds.
As of June 20, Longboat Key’s least tern colony was growing and able to defend itself against natural predators, according to Emily Briner, the shorebird steward coordinator for Audubon Florida.
In her weekly emailed update, she said there are 68 adults, 28 nests and eight chicks. She also noted that the eight Longboat least tern chicks are growing fast.
The weekly update on June 27 stated that new chicks are still showing up and the colony seems to be comfortable.
Shorebird breeding season runs from Feb. 15 through Sept. 1 and is an important time for the shorebirds to safely lay eggs.
Briner also said that protective measures were increased. This includes the addition of chick crossing signs on Longboat Key, with more on the way.
Least terns are classified as “extremely susceptible to nest disturbances,” according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Common predators and disturbances include crows, raccoons, humans and dogs.
Crow effigies were recently hung in the area around Longboat’s colonies, which act as a natural deterrent for crows. The deterrents are intended to keep crows from preying on the nests. With new measures in place, Briner said in an update that her stewards reported few disturbances by crows or gulls lately on Longboat.
“Adult terns can be seen taking on and successfully defending against birds two or even three times their size,” Briner’s email said.
People and their dogs can cause shorebird nest disturbances, and Assistant to the Town Manager Susan Phillips distributed a brief to remind residents of town ordinances.
“Please help us protect nesting birds, chicks, and their nesting habitat,” the release said. “The presence of dogs, even service animals, can inadvertently disturb the natural habitat, affecting the nesting grounds and resting areas for migratory birds, turtles and other wildlife.”
All Longboat Key beaches are bird sanctuaries, according to Phillips. Dogs are not allowed on any of Longboat’s beaches, including beach access points. The town points dog owners toward the dog park at Bayfront Park, which recently received new turf in the remaining grassy areas of the park.
Humans often disturb nesting shorebirds by getting too close, Briner said in a previous article. Children running through a crowd of birds isn’t good for the birds, Briner said, especially if the birds are down by the water trying to cool off or catch a meal.
Briner is always looking for more volunteers to become shorebird stewards. The organization will provide all the necessary training and equipment, and it’s a way to spend a couple of hours enjoying the beach while educating people about the shorebirds, Briner previously said.
To get involved, email Briner at Emily.Briner@Audubon.org.
Courtesy image
The least tern chicks on Longboat Key are said to be growing fast.
Leading lady
Actress. Playwright. Philanthropist.
Jan Wallace can add one more title to her resume — president of the Rotary Club of Longboat Key. After stepping up when no one else would, Wallace followed in the footsteps of her husband’s late wife, Sydelle Pittas, who started the Longboat Key chapter 10 years ago. She has given her position of recording secretary to her husband, Philippe Koenig, and is prepared to lead the Rotary Club on its path of high
achievements.
Originally from the United Kingdom, Wallace has been an actress since her youth and later moved to New York to continue this passion. She moved to Sarasota full time in 2013 and joined the club in 2022.
The Longboat Observer spoke with Wallace to learn about her love for the club and what she is looking forward to in her term as president.
What has been your main involvement in the club?
I work mainly with our Books for Kids program at Tuttle Elementary. Each month, we donate books to the school to encourage the impor-
tance of reading. When we give the books to the children, we will do a read-aloud. Since I am an actress, I encouraged everyone to start acting the stories out to make them interactive. Then Nancy (Rozance) brought out all of her costumes, like Josh the Otter, and it was perfect.
I have worked with kids a lot. I am a Guardian Ad Litem, which is a group of advocates for abused, neglected and abandoned children. So for 16 years, I have worked with kids who have been removed from their parents’ homes and are either in foster care or with other family members. When I lived in New York, I ran a children’s theater. Here, I taught kids theater and acting for several years at Venice Theatre.
So reading to the kids with Rotary has been the perfect fit for
WORSHIP directory
me because I love connecting with them and being able to provide them with greater opportunities in their lives.
What do you like about being a part of the Rotary Club?
I joined the club because of my husband, but my friendships, like with Nancy and others, have truly grown throughout my time here.
It is a tight-knit group that loves to support each other, like they are always going to my shows.
I love the programming through the club that Jack (Rozance) provides for us. We have great speakers. I love that we’re helping organizations around the world and organizations in need.
For me, Rotary means communicating and doing good in the area. It gives people the opportunity to either donate or do good for the area. I’m more of a doer but a lot of people are happier giving. It’s the perfect combination of that.
How are you feeling about becoming the Rotary Club president?
My husband’s late wife started this Rotary Club. So when nobody else stepped up, the most recent president, Ellen (Greenberger), said we would have to merge with another club if we didn’t get anyone. I knew how much this club meant to my
husband and how much Sydelle did for the club and community.
A couple of people asked me about doing it. I don’t know why. Maybe it was because they were used to seeing me on stage. So I asked my husband, and he said to go for it.
I’m feeling a bit nervous because my experience in Rotary is limited, but I am lucky as we have so many past presidents still involved and they’re all going to back me up.
What are your goals as club president?
My main goal is to keep these members we have active. If we can bring in a few more on the way, that will be very nice. I hope that at every meeting we have as many people as possible attend. I just want everybody to come early to our meetings to mingle, feel the camaraderie and just give a lot of energy.
I’m looking forward to continue making a difference with this club. Just this year, we raised so much money and were so involved, so I’m happy that people have trusted me with this. I just hope I live up to their expectations and that people want to come out and be a part of the organization and continue doing what they are doing.
PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER
Actress and philanthropist Jan Wallace steps up as Rotary Club president to maintain the chapter’s independence.
Photos by Petra Rivera
Jan Wallace, new president of the Rotary Club of Longboat Key
Rotary Area Gov. Sue McConnell and Jan Wallace
ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT
The art OF IMPROV joy
MARTY FUGATE
Improv comedy doesn’t just happen. No. Strike that.
Should’ve said …
Improv comedy does just happen. It’s spontaneous by definition.
That said, this spontaneous combustion of comedy needs a place to happen. A crucible, an incubator, a stage. A place where improv artists can sharpen each other’s skills. A place where an improv audience can gather and grow. Creating that kind of space demands commitment and planning. That’s where Florida Studio Theatre comes in.
Back in 2001, it launched the FST Improv troupe. At the time, it was the only unscripted comedy game in town. The troupe rehearsed and learned backstage. They offered intermittent improv shows on FST’s cabaret stage. In 2004, they ratcheted it up to year-round performances.
FST’s annual Sarasota Improv Festival creates spontaneous comedy with careful planning.
“I actually had two goals,” she says. “I wanted to expose local improv artists to the exciting national scene. I also wanted to expand the Sarasota improv audience.”
Hopkins adds that improv comedy was still an emerging art form in 2009.
“Whose Line is It Anyway,” it’s like that. So, we got the message across. We sold tickets — and we sold out! Our first festival was a total success.” Hopkins laughs. “I was just as surprised as anybody.”
The attendees left sweating, but they left happy. If we could pull off the festival under those conditions, why stop with just the one? We knew we had to do it again.”
In 2009, FST took it to a whole new level. The theater launched its first Sarasota Improv Festival. FST Managing Director Rebecca Hopkins was FST’s improv director at the time. Why create an improv festival? What was her goal?
“Sarasota was a sophisticated arts town, but we’d somehow missed out on the art of improv,” she says. “To get the festival off the ground, I had to find a way to explain it to them. People would ask me, ‘What the heck is improv?’ I’d say, ‘If you’ve seen
IF YOU GO
She had originally envisioned the Sarasota Improv Festival as a oneand-done event. Its surprising success led to a change of plans.
“We built it and they came,” she says. “More importantly … they stayed! Our 2009 improv festival had all kinds of challenges — including a total breakdown of our AC system.
The 2024 Sarasota Improv Festival
When: July 12-13
Where: at Florida Studio Theatre campus, 1265 First St. Single tickets: $10 and $25
Passes: $75 for two days; $59 for Saturday; $49 for Friday
Info: Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org for a full schedule of performances.
FST decided to make the improv festival a yearly happening. Its repeat performance in 2010 was an even bigger smash than its inaugural event. Yet again, the shows all sold out, 2011’s festival was even bigger — and 2012 topped that.
As the improv festival blossomed, FST was simultaneously expanding its campus. It transformed the
The Austin, Texas, comedy troupe Available Cupholders returns to the Sarasota Improv Festival on July 12-13.
Tropical Punchlines will appear at the Sarasota Improv Festival on Saturday, July 13.
old TheatreWorks auditorium into the Gompertz Theatre — a space comprising two cabaret stages and a mainstage. That allowed FST to keep ticket prices low by running three simultaneous improv shows at different venues.
The 21st century rolled on. FST’s more-is-more strategy worked like a charm. Year after year, the improv festival kept growing. Area improv artists grew with it.
Locally and regionally, the festival nurtured homegrown talents. Will Luera is FST’s current improv director. He describes the festival’s regional impact as “transformative.”
INSPIRING THE CREATION OF NEW TROUPES
“The festival brought world-class improvisers to our doorstep, exposing local talent and audiences to the craft’s cutting edge,” Luera says.
“We’ve seen area performers grow by leaps and bounds after participating in festival workshops and sharing the stage with legends.”
FST’s annual festival also inspired the creation of several Sarasota improv groups, including Lazy Fairy Improv and the Early Bird Specials. It also helped jump-start Tampa’s vibrant improv scene.
Nationally, the festival put Sarasota on the improv comedy map. Its honor roll of visiting troupes includes Dad’s Garage of Atlanta, the Upright Citizens Brigade, based in New York City and Los Angeles, and Available Cupholders from Austin, Texas.
These A-list improvisers definitely entertained area audiences. But they also interacted with local improv talents. As a result, Sarasota became part of a national (and international) improv network. And an improv destination rivaling the scene in Austin, Los Angeles and New York City.
The Sarasota Improv Festival’s exponential growth made it the leading celebration of its unscripted art form in the Southeastern U.S. This growth continued until 2020.
Then the pandemic happened. That was spontaneous, too. Unlike improv, it wasn’t funny at all.
Sarasota’s stages all went dark. FST was no exception. It canceled the real-life 2020 Sarasota Improv Festival. But improv artists think fast. The show still went on — in virtual reality. The fest was a Zoomonly event that bummer summer.
In 2023, the Sarasota Improv Festival came back strong in the real world. Hopkins wasn’t surprised.
“The improv festival brings people together,” she says. “After COVID killed the party, the community was eager to share in the celebration — and laugh themselves silly.”
Hopkins laughs at the memory.
“It was kind of like hitting the reset dial,” she says. “Our last live festival was 2019. After that, we went through a three-year gap until our next live shows. During that time, Sarasota had a whole new crop of residents and visitors. We couldn’t assume they’d all been to the festival — or had ever been exposed to improv comedy.”
That old question popped up again: What the heck is improv comedy?
“We had to explain it all … again. It was back to ‘Improv Comedy 101.’
But we filled the seats — and the 2023 audience left happy this time, too,” Hopkins says. She smiles. “I expect we’ll do it again.”
The comedy troupe Dad’s Garage will perform at the Sarasota Improv Festival on July 12-13.
THIS WEEK
THURSDAY
‘RHINESTONE COWGIRLS’
7 p.m. at FST’s Goldstein Cabaret, 1239 N. Palm Ave.
$18-$42
Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.
Created by Nancy Allen Productions, this musical tribute to some of the first ladies of country features such classics as Patsy Cline’s “Crazy,” Tammy Wynette’s “Stand by Your Man” and Carrie Underwood’s “Last Name.” Runs through July 28.
‘THE MUSIC OF LAUREL CANYON’
7 p.m. at FST’s Court Cabaret, 1265 First St., Sarasota
$18-$42
Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.
If you know, you know. But not everyone knows about Laurel Canyon, the neighborhood above West Hollywood’s Sunset Strip that became home to folk musicians such as Joni Mitchell, Buffalo Springfield, Crosby, Stills, Nash, & Young and The Mamas and the Papas. Runs through Aug. 25.
‘DEAR JACK, DEAR LOUISE’
7 p.m. at FST’s Keating Theatre, 1241 N. Palm Ave.
$29-$46
Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.
Acclaimed playwright Ken Ludwig tells the story of his parents’ courtship during World War II. The play follows U.S. Army Capt. Jack Ludwig, a military doctor stationed in Oregon, who begins a life-changing pen-pal relationship with Louise Rabiner, an aspiring actress living in the Big Apple. Runs through Aug. 11.
DON’T MISS THE SARASOTA PLAYERS NEW PLAY FESTIVAL
Not only is Sarasota a hotbed of live theater, it is also an incubator for playwriting, especially during the summer months. For more than two decades, the Sarasota Players has hosted its new play festival, a week of readings of never-heard-before works with local directors and actors. Playwrights compete for the opportunity to have their plays produced with full sets, costumes, lighting and sound.
IF YOU GO When: 7:30 p.m. July 8-12
Where: at 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 1130 Tickets: $10 each night Info: Visit ThePlayers.org.
FRIDAY
OPENING RECEPTION FOR ‘GLOBAL RHYTHMS’ QUILT EXHIBIT
5-7 p.m. at Art Ovation Hotel, 1255 N. Palm Ave.
Free
Visit ArtOvationHotel.com.
Bradenton artist Michael R. Stevenson brings his bold quilts to the Art Ovation Hotel for a four-day residency. Stevenson comes from four generations of quilters but did not take up his textile art until retiring as a professor. His meticulously crafted quilts incorporate pieces he has collected from his travels over the years. Following the opening reception, Stevenson will be in residency each day from 4-8 p.m. through July 8.
CLASSIC MOVIES AT THE OPERA HOUSE: ‘ON THE WATERFRONT’
7:30 p.m. at Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave. $12 Visit SarasotaOpera.org.
Escape the summer heat with an air-conditioned screening of Elia Kazan’s classic film “On the Waterfront” at the Sarasota Opera House. The film’s stars, Marlon Brando and Eve Marie Saint, look different on the big screen than they do if you stream the gritty tale on your laptop. The famous words, “I coulda been a contender” take on a whole new meaning.
SATURDAY
OUR PICK SUMMER CIRCUS SPECTACULAR
If you’ve never seen a performance in The Ringling’s jewelbox venue, the Historic Asolo Theater, here’s your chance. Presided over by Ringmaster Jared Walker, the Summer Circus Spectacular includes contortionist Uranbileg Angarag, acrobatic hand balancers The Bello Sisters, hair hang artist Camille Langlois, slack wire performer Antino Pansa and clown Renaldo, a veteran of the Big Apple Circus. Runs through Aug. 17.
IF YOU GO When: 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., Friday, July 5
Where: at Historic Asolo Theater, 5401 Bay Shore Road Tickets: $20 adults; $15 kids Info: Visit Ringling.org.
‘FREEDOM THE MUSICAL’
7:30 p.m. at FST’s Bowne’s Lab, 1265 First St. $15-$18 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.
Feeling patriotic but looking for a laugh? Florida Studio Theatre Improv explores “Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Laughter” in this one-night-only performance that promises to reveal the secret history of the American Revolution.
‘RADICAL CLAY’
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at The Ringling Art Museum, 5401 Bay Shore Road Free with museum admission of $25; free Mondays and $15 from 5-8 p.m. on Thursdays Visit Ringling.org.
Like women in other parts of the world, Japanese female artists have historically faced opposition to pursuing careers. “Radical Clay,” an exhibition of 41 ceramic sculptures by 36 contemporary artists, includes the works of veterans such as Mishima Kimiyo and Tsuboi Asuka and relative newcomers Mori Aya and Kawaura Saki.
Royal Opera House conducted by Koen Kessels.
WEDNESDAY
JAZZ HAPPY HOUR
6 p.m. at Geldbart Auditorium, Selby Library, 1331 First St. Free with reservation Visit JazzHappyHour.org.
The Sarasota Music Archive presents the Kevin Celebi Septet, “Hamonic Sanity.” Light refreshments are available.
Film and TV actor Steve Hytner brings his considerable talents to stand-up comedy in this special onenight show. Hytner is well known to TV sitcom fans for his appearances on “Seinfeld,” “Modern Family,” “Curb Your Enthusiasm” and many other hits.
Courtesy images
What Florida state budget cuts mean for Sarasota arts
Arts and Cultural Alliance
CEO Brian Hersh talks about the community’s response.
MONICA ROMAN GAGNIER ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
Sarasota arts organizations got some unwelcome news last month when they learned that $32 million earmarked for state cultural grants in fiscal 2025 had been rejected by Gov. Ron DeSantis. When he signed the fiscal 2025 budget into law on June 12, DeSantis vetoed cultural and museum grants as part of $950 million in funding cuts. Of that, the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County estimates $3 million was destined for Sarasota’s vibrant arts community.
The Cultural Alliance says the cuts don’t make sense economically because of the valuable role the arts play in attracting tourism and generating income and employment in Sarasota, which has been trademarked “Florida’s Cultural Coast.”
According to the Cultural Alliance, nearly half (47.5%) of all attendees at arts performances and events are from outside the county, and 2.3 million attendees participate in cultural events in Sarasota County each year.
As employers, nonprofit arts groups contribute more than $176 million annually to household income within the county, the alliance says.
Brian Hersh, Arts and Cultural Alliance president and CEO, took time to discuss what the arts grants cuts, which are unprecedented in the history of the state’s cultural funding, mean for local cultural groups.
Were you surprised by Gov. DeSantis’ recent rejection of arts funding grants in the latest budget? The cuts were unprecedented. It hasn’t happened since the state started the program in the late ’70s.
Will Sarasota’s arts and tourism be hurt by these cuts?
All of the organizations that will not receive funding from the state will be negatively impacted.
Sarasota’s cultural institutions have bounced back from pandemic disruptions to a greater extent that some of their peers across the country. Do these cuts have the potential to derail that progress?
Any funding cut is a setback.
How does Sarasota promote itself as an arts destination?
Our friends at Visit Sarasota County have trademarked Sarasota as Florida’s Cultural Coast. When you look at our population size and see how many arts organizations we have (as well as individual artists), you can see Sarasota County has
a tremendous breadth of arts and culture.
In addition to the depth of arts and culture, Sarasota County produces performances and exhibitions of high artistic excellence.
These elements are what set Sarasota apart, especially when paired with our stunning beaches.
What is your view of government’s role in the arts?
Public support of the arts is incredibly important, especially while ensuring arts and culture is accessible to the community.
Is there any evidence that government funding of the arts helps stimulate economic growth?
Many studies have shown the economic impact and vitality of arts and culture. A recent survey from Americans for the Arts showed the return on investment was nine to one. For every dollar invested, the return was $9. That’s quite a positive impact.
Does the Arts & Cultural Alliance have any plans to help members offset these cuts?
We can continue to convene and collaborate across the arts and cultural sector among organizations and artists. There are opportunities, but many of these things take time.
What we want to continue to convey in Sarasota, across the state, country and international markets is that Sarasota is a vibrant community — with arts and culture as an important aspect of our identity.
Sarasota has generous individual donors and community foundations that help support the arts. Can they be counted upon to make up the difference in funding?
Support from donors and philanthropic organizations will be incredibly important. Individuals can help, of course, with donations. In addition to making a donation, community members can also help support the arts by buying a ticket or entrance to an exhibition or by becoming a member.
Individuals can also volunteer. Find a way to help fill a need for our many organizations by rolling up your sleeves. Our organizations have great stories to tell. Be sure to share these stories on social media. These are just a few ways to help out now. Arts and culture goes beyond economic impact. Arts builds community. Quality of life is important, and arts and culture go a long way toward stimulating the vibrancy and well-being within Sarasota County.
Nancy Guth
Brian Hersh spent more than 20 years in the field of nonprofit arts administration before becoming president and CEO of the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County in June 2023.
YOUR NEIGHBORS
The wedding planners
Two event specialists explain how they make destination weddings memorable.
special day.
Acouple’s wedding venue is an emotional decision, said Ayla Goggin.
As director of events and catering at the Longboat Key Club, she sees how much the location affects a couple’s special day.
“When people pick a wedding venue, they’re gonna remember it for the rest of their lives,” said Goggin.
The Observer spoke with Goggin and Longboat Island Chapel Wedding Coordinator Diane Lehman to learn what it takes to plan a wedding at a destination location like Longboat Key.
LONGBOAT KEY CLUB
Goggin said that about 80% of her weddings are destination weddings taking place on the beach. Through its Weddings at Longboat Key Club Instagram page, the club has been able to reach people from around the country and show them how stunning a Longboat wedding could be.
When it comes to having a wedding on the beach at the Longboat Key Club, there are ample possibilities. Goggin said that some people just have a welcome barbecue or a ceremony on the beach. Other people request to put a whole dance floor and white tent on the sand for a ceremony and reception overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.
No matter what your vision is, what makes Longboat Key beach weddings unique from other beach locations is the privacy. Goggin said the biggest concern people have for beach weddings is the possibility of disturbances. Having weddings at public beach parks like Lido and Siesta Key means you don’t have the same guarantee that the Key Club offers with a private beach. No beach runners or families of tourists will ruin the ceremony or parties of the
Along with the beach, Key Club has five lawn spaces, including Sandy Cove, which overlooks the marina, and the Harbourside Lawn and ballroom. Her team works with local vendors to provide as many options for the couples as possible. People can choose from several packages to customize their weddings including catering, photography, decorations, florals, etc. For budget-friendly purposes, Goggin said she always gives the total number upfront for couples to plan accordingly.
Every quarter, Goggin will throw grand tastings for all couples getting married at the club to try different meals and vendors. The restaurant team will make the entire wedding menu and her design team will bring many decoration options.
The grand tastings allow the team to provide as many options as possible for the couples as opposed to a private tasting where only a select number can be shown. It also allows couples to visualize what their wedding will look like with a greater number of people.
Originally from Wisconsin, Goggin started working in Sarasota at Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse. She cultivated many relationships in the restaurant and event space by planning its events. Through these connections, she was hired as the event manager at Longboat Key Club in 2016. In 2020, she became its director of events and catering.
From her eight years of working events and weddings, Goggin has seen it all. She said one time a couple threw a Batman-themed wedding without telling her specifically what the theme was. With the colors being black and purple and the bride walking down the aisle to the “Dark Knight Rises” theme song, Goggin had to put this together on her own and think on her feet.
Once, a bride requested turtleshaped butter because it was turtle season. Though Goggin thought the idea was endearing, the summer weather had other plans. Having to deal with random tidbits like bowls of melted butter, Goggin’s key to accommodating so many people is being flexible. She is prepared for any weather and guest concerns to make sure it’s the perfect day for these couples.
THE LONGBOAT ISLAND CHAPEL
At the Longboat Island Chapel, Lehman hosts unique weddings for all types of couples.
“What makes us so unique is that we are nondenominational,” said Lehman. “We do all kinds of differ-
ent ceremonies for all religions, all sexes; everything is on the table.”
The chapel’s arch and the scenery of the garden and Sarasota Bay have provided many couples with a simple and memorable spot for their special day.
Lehman said that she works closely with the Rev. Brock Patterson to host a wedding almost every weekend of the year without double booking.
Just like the Key Club, the chapel has multiple packages for customization for the ceremony and reception with the different locations of the chapel, garden and indoor reception space. The packages offer choices of decoration, music, flowers and connections with local vendors. Couples have the option to have Patterson officiate or use their own officiant.
Lehman started planning weddings at the chapel 20 years ago after having her own event business. After doing it for a few years, she stopped event planning to go into hospital sales. When the opportunity arose again, Lehman didn’t hesitate to
become the chapel’s wedding coordinator because of the joy it gave her.
An upcoming chapel wedding is for a bride who was baptized at the chapel. Her parents and her grandparents were also married there.
Lehman said it is weddings like these that come full circle that remind her how much she loves her job.
ALL IN THE FAMILY
Both Goggin and Lehman said it is common to work with each other or other venues, restaurants and businesses, such as Zota Beach Resort, St. Mary, Star of the Sea and Cafe L’Europe. Some couples will have a combination of venues for different parts of their weddings.
These venues maintain close relationships because they all have the same goal in mind: to give couples a unique experience to make their special day one they won’t forget.
“What makes us so unique is that we are nondenominational. We do all kinds of different ceremonies for all religions, all sexes; everything is on the table.”
PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER
Courtesy image
A wedding at the Longboat Island Chapel in its garden.
Petra Rivera Longboat Key Club Director of Events and Catering Ayla Goggin.
Petra Rivera Longboat Island Chapel Wedding Coordinator Diane Lehman.
— Diane Lehman, Longboat Island Chapel wedding coordinator
On safari
PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER
The Longboat Key Garden Club is busting out its safari hats.
The club is planning its first group trip to Africa in October. Garden Club President Melanie Dale said there have been about 100 inquiries, but the trip is set to accommodate about 20 travelers.
The trip was suggested by new Garden Club member Debbie Mc Hardy. Originally from South Africa, Mc Hardy works as a private guide for the African Firefly travel company. Since joining, she’s talked to many members about wanting to share the beauty of her home country with them and how it ties in with the Garden Club’s mission.
Mc Hardy said several members have gone to Africa before but haven’t experienced it through an extensive and local trip like this one.
“When you’re part of a group, you feel a lot more comfortable doing things,” said Mc Hardy. “Perhaps, if you’re single, you could share a room with someone else and meet new people. Just having other people to be with encourages adventure and travel.”
The trip is from Oct. 12-22 for
The Longboat Key Garden Club plans first group trip to Africa.
IF YOU GO
You must be a Longboat Key Garden Club member to attend. To join the Garden Club, visit LBKGardenClub.org/. Call Debbie Mc Hardy for any questions on the trip at 960-6099 or email at Debbie@ AfricanFirefly.com.
$6,682 per person including accommodations, tours and flights. It is only open to current Garden Club members.
The 10-day African adventure starts with four nights in Cape Town. The group will go to the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Table Mountain to see penguins and go on wine tastings at wineries. Mc Hardy said that Cape Town is the smallest of the six recognized floral kingdoms in the world with over 9,000 plant species, so it is perfect for gardening enthusiasts.
Following that will be four nights on a safari in the Sabi Sands private reserve. On the safari, members will see a variety of wildlife such as cheetahs, elephants, lions, rhinos, zebras, leopards, wild dogs and antelopes.
The last two nights will be spent in Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, where they will view the famous waterfall and go on a sunset dinner cruise on the Zambezi River.
“This trip fits right in with what we do as a club and the preservation that we’re trying to do,” said Dale.
“The magnificence of Africa will strike a chord with a lot of our members. It fits in with most of the beliefs and what we’re trying to accomplish as a group through the attention to ecology and Mother Earth. Most of our members are very much aware of what’s going on environmentally, but this trip will give us a chance to connect with more than just Florida. This is a chance to see a different part of the world that has a very different environment and connect to environmental issues on a more global level.”
File image
Longboat Key Garden Club officers Susan Loprete, Sharon Meir, Susan Mason, Melanie Dale, Lyn Haycock and Susan Phillips at a 2023 event.
Courtesy images
Longboat Key Garden Club members will enjoy a four-day safari in the Sabi Sands private reserve with lots of wildlife.
Longboat Key Garden Club member Debbie Mc Hardy will serve as a private guide for the trip’s four days in Cape Town.
hitney Plaza was buzzing with residents for the first Summer Night Out of the year.
The businesses of Whitney Plaza partnered to offer a fun night for Longboat residents to explore new businesses, meet new friends and get involved in the community.
People started with free cheesecake samples from Elegant Lady Cheesecake Parlor before moving to Design 2000 Salon for mingling and pizza from Ventura’s Italian Kitchen and Wine Bar. Next door at Driftwood Beach Home and Garden, people drank prosecco while browsing through trinkets and colorful clothes.
People ended their tour of Whitney Plaza at Sips for free samples at their new gelato shop, with Sips hosts Mike and Lorenzo Condensa playing music for the plaza. Ventura’s also extended its happy hour for people to enjoy more food and drinks after shopping and mingling.
Owner of Driftwood Beach Home and Garden Heather Rippy and co-owner of Design 2000 Irina Bronstein started this event last year. It has grown since then with the addition of Sips Coffee and Gelato, music for the plaza and more.
— PETRA RIVERA
Petra Thomas and Gary Hagen
Photos by Petra Rivera
Chris Carter, Emily Condensa, Micah Carter, Justina Carter and Gabriella Loccisano
Bonnie Coughlin enjoys a free pistachio ice cream.
$9,970,000
St. Armands couture
St. Armands had a French makeover on June 25 and styled itself after St. Tropez.
Cafe L’Europe partnered with Sarasota boutique T. Georgiano’s for its first fashion show. Fashion enthusiasts and Cafe L’Europe regulars mixed and mingled in bright and elegant fashions to accompany the event’s St. Tropez theme.
“I have been wanting to do a fashion show for a while now,” said Ashley Watts, director of catering sales at Cafe L’Europe. “After putting feelers out, everyone mentioned how great T. Georgiano’s and Tatyana were. She loved the idea and it turned out to be this fabulous event.”
After a cocktail hour with the cafe’s hors d’oeuvres, the show began with a runway that ran through the restaurant’s two back rooms and down its bar. Models strutted through the crowd of 90 people in a variety of unique looks, including swimwear and cocktail attire from T. Georgiano’s.
DJ Rossy Weiss curated an upbeat and fun environment with music for the models to dance to while the guests applauded them down the runway. Along with DJ-ing the event, Weiss is the designer of the line Aquamala Swimwear, which was featured in the show.
— PETRA RIVERA
Photos by Petra Rivera
Cafe L’Europe Director of Catering Sales Ashley Watts
T. Georgiano’s models finish the show in bright orange blazers.
Tami McDermott, Kim Verreault, Danielle Gladding, Melinda Foster and Alison Kanter
T. Georgiano’s model Jessica
Ramona Glanz and Andrew Vac
Sandy Endres and Nancy Chanos
Home in Corey’s Landing tops sales at $3.8 million
ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR
Ahome in Corey’s Landing tops all transactions in this week’s real estate. Thomas Connaughton, trustee, of Englewood, sold the home at 3580 Mistletoe Lane to Ronald and Marilyn Horner, of Longboat Key, for $3.8 million. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,333 square feet of living area. It sold for $3,414,300 in 2023.
SLEEPY LAGOON PARK
Christopher Warren Crawford and Melissa Crawford, of Easton Park, sold their home at 598 Lyons Lane to PAV088 LLC for $2.2 million. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, four-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,659 square feet of living area.
SANCTUARY AT LONGBOAT KEY
CLUB
Fraser and Heather Latta, of Ontario, Canada, sold their Unit B-304 condominium at 535 Sanctuary Drive to Jennifer Elizabeth Latta and Alexandra Margaret Latta, trustees, of Ontario, Canada, for $2.05 million. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,590 square feet of living area. It sold for $460,000 in 1991.
THE CASTILLIAN
Winding Brook Delaware LLC sold the Unit 401 condominium at 4525 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Graeme Lockwood, trustee, of Longboat Key, for $1,475,000. Built in 1979, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,738 square feet of living area. It sold for $775,000 in 2010.
LIDO REGENCY
Basil Harcourt Ford and Madalyn Lenore Ford, trustees, of Roswell, Georgia, sold the Unit 8D condominium at 1700 Benjamin Franklin Drive to Renee Thalheimer-Vasey, of Darien, Connecticut, for $1.4 million. Built in 1968, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,492 square feet of living area. It sold for $218,000 in 1985.
17-21
LIDO AMBASSADOR
Elisabeth Zwaantina De Boer and Ross Alan Reddern, of Ontario, Canada, sold their Unit 608 condominium at 800 Benjamin Franklin Drive to Cyrus Mohebbi and Barbara Bennett, of Millburn, New Jersey, for $1.35 million. Built in 1978, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,350 square feet of living area. It sold for $265,000 in 2000.
Audrey Freeman, of Bradenton, sold her Unit 206 condominium at 800 Benjamin Franklin Drive to George and Kristen Ferullo, of Peabody, Massachusetts, for $900,000. Built in 1978, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,150 square feet of living area. It sold for $480,000 in 2020.
LIDO SURF AND SAND
Rachel Martinez sold the Unit 308 condominium at 1102 Benjamin Franklin Drive to David Recker, trustee, of Sarasota, for $845,000. Built in 1976, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,213 square feet of living area. It sold for $585,000 in 2016.
FAIRWAY BAY
Janice Ojserkis, of Plymouth, Massachusetts, sold her Unit 1101 condominium at 1922 Harbourside Drive to Darren and Laura Degreef, of Waterford, Wisconsin, for $705,000. Built in 1982, it has
TOP BUILDING PERMITS
two bedrooms, two baths and 1,316 square feet of living area. It sold for $445,000
TIFFANY PLAZA
Joseph Fitzgibbons, of Estherville, Iowa, sold his Unit 302 condominium at 4325 Gulf of Mexico Drive to John Fitzgibbons and KayAnne Fitzgibbons, trustees, of Kenilworth, Illinois, for $700,000. Built in 1975, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,336 square feet of living area. It sold for $532,000 in 2012.
WINDWARD BAY
Wendy Lynnette St. John, of Longboat Key, sold her Unit PH-5 condominium at 4900 Gulf of
Mexico Drive to Brett and Courtney Zachary, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, for $700,000. Built in 1975, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,312 square feet of living area. It sold for $650,000 in 2021.
LONGBOAT KEY YACHT AND TENNIS CLUB
Jeffrey and Christine Gooderham, of Longboat Key, sold their Unit 2 condominium at 4140 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Michele Reynolds, of Longboat Key, for $690,000. Built in 1973, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,144 square feet of living area. It sold for $405,000 in 2018.
Courtesy image by William Glade
Christopher Warren Crawford and Melissa Crawford, of Easton Park, sold their home at 598 Lyons Lane to PAV088 LLC for $2.2 million. It has four bedrooms, four-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,659 square feet of living area.
YOUR CALENDAR
RECURRING EVENTS
MONDAYS,
The thrift store will be open 9 a.m. to noon at 6140 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Donations are accepted during business hours. Call 383-4738.
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 383-6493.
THINKING OUT LOUD
1-2:30 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Retired Lawyer Mike Karp will lead a lively discussion on current topics such as world affairs, national politics and local issues. Bring questions, thoughts and an open mind. Call 383-6493.
TUESDAYS AND FRIDAYS LONGBOAT LIBRARY
From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesday and Friday. 555 Bay Isles Road. Call 3832011.
TUESDAYS PILATES SCULPT
From 9-9:50 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Pilates Sculpt is a combination class mixing traditional Pilates exercises into a fun, challenging workout to upbeat music. It will make you sweat, encourage your body to burn calories, and make you stronger and more flexible. This class is for all levels. Cost is $15. Walk-ins welcome. Call 383-6493.
QIGONG
From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Qigong 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 &
BEST BET
WEDNESDAY, JULY 10
CONFLICT RESOLUTION
1:30 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Hosted by Youthful Aging Home Care, Erin Mace will present on developing conflict resolution skills. Mace will cover this topic as it relates to different stages of life and relationship dynamics such as parent/adult children, siblings and other family members. Mace will teach how to successfully navigate shifting roles in family matters by using mediation and deescalation techniques. Call 3836493.
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.
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.
THURSDAYS
ZUMBA & TONING
9:45 to 10:30 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Taught by Reena Malik, this class begins with 30 minutes of Zumba and finishes with mat Pilates for flexibility and strengthening core muscles. Come for 30 or 60 minutes. Free for members, $15 for nonmembers.
Tracey StetlerSteven Moore Patrick DiPintoRene DiPintoNicholle DiPinto McKierman
We are a collaboration of savvy real estate professionals with decades of local experience. We focus on selling exceptional properties located in downtown and on our local islands. We represent buyers and sellers in our marketplace with a unique viewpoint, as we live in the communities that we sell. This local perspective makes us experts in our field, allowing us to provide you all the information for you and your family to make the best decision in your real estate endeavor.
$12,000,000
$2,850,000
NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH
FORECAST
TIDES SUNRISE /
MOON PHASES
INFINITY POOL by Adam Simpson, edited by Jeff Chen
By Luis Campos
Laura Fajardo captured this photo from Beer Can Island on a beautiful clear
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Wanted THE BUSINESS OBSERVER newspaper is seeking a fast-paced, detail-oriented Proofreader / Typist for a part-time position in Sarasota, Florida. Hours are 9am-2pm, Mon-Fri. Candidates must be able to type at least 75 WPM with great accuracy and proofread typed material and make corrections. Attention to detail is a MUST. Proofreading entails nding errors in the typed print that varies from the original document,
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S Sarasota: Pool
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*This position must be performed in the of ce. No remote work is available.
Competitive pay, paid time off and health insurance available
B Brooke O Malley | Club Realty Call 941-726-2677
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LONGBOAT KEY: Beachfront Condos, 1st or 2nd floor, 2BR/2BA, W/D in units, free Wi-Fi, heated pool, & parking. Call 941-383-3338.
