Longboat Observer 7.16.26

LONGBOAT

How to keep fit with tai chi.

Observer

Longboat Key’s weekly newspaper since 1978

PAGE 20

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026

VOLUME 48, NO. 48

YOUR TOWN

Town charter under review A 1985 charter change reshaped Longboat, and more could come soon. SEE PAGE 3

Courtesy image

Back-to-school supplies needed

SWEET

Temple Beth Israel is gathering school supply donations to help Second Chance Last Opportunity prepare for its July 26 back-to-school carnival.

Organizers have 180 donated backpacks to fill with everything students need to start the school year.

Donors can bring supplies or monetary donations to the collection drive at 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 21 at 567 Bay Isles Road.

Contributors can also drop off supplies any time between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Volunteers will be stuffing backpacks at 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 22.

Those interested in volunteering or coordinating a dropoff can contact Arlene Skversky at ArskyLBK@gmail.com.

Needed items include notebooks, three-ring binders, lined notepaper, pencils, pens, erasers, calculators, crayons, pencil cases, scissors and pencil sharpeners.

SUMMER A new frozen treat spot is joining Longboat’s ice cream community.

SEE PAGE 13

Maryellen Duffy flashes a smile after picking up her scoop of chocolate frozen custard with chocolate sprinkles.

Courtesy image

Experts invite public to turtle nest dig The public could peer inside a mound for an educational event for the first time this turtle nesting season Sunday.

Permitted experts conducted an evening nest excavation on one of Longboat Key’s beaches. Last year was the first time in years Longboaters got to witness an evening excavation, during which certified personnel carefully dig up what remains from an already-hatched nest to gather valuable data.

Turtle expert Brenda Jameson said approximately 120 people witnessed the special event. The nest showed evidence of earlier coyote predation, and permitted volunteers documented 31 destroyed eggs, 39 hatched eggs, 23 unhatched eggs, three dead hatchlings and one living hatchling safely released after sunset.

Dana Kampa

A vote to take into account Local leaders recently got updated on the property tax referendum.

SEE PAGE 5

$0.10

S.T. Cardinal

Florida League of Cities Legislative Advocate Matt Singer presented an update to Manasota League of Cities on the proposed property tax referendum on July 9.

A+E

Photography in bloom PAGE 10

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026

WEEK OF JULY 16, 2026

Data center moratorium enacted in Sarasota County

“There’s a distinct difference between our island Longboat Key and those other barrier islands along the coast.”

Town Attorney Maggie Mooney. Read more on page 3

BY THE NUMBERS 810%

The increase in property valuations on Longboat Key from 1974 to 1984 PAGE 3

85

The number of municipalities in the state that could not afford to fund public safety at current levels if Amendment 3 were passed PAGE 5

44 YEARS

How long Big Olaf Creamery has been open on St. Armands Circle PAGE 13

CALENDAR

n Sandbag filling event — 8:30 a.m., Aug. 6, 100 Broadway St. n Hands-only CPR training — 10 a.m., Aug. 17, 5490 Gulf of Mexico Drive n Zoning Board of Adjustment — 9:30 a.m., Aug. 20, 501 Bay Isles Road

S.T. Cardinal

White sand beaches, boating and preserved nature are a few of the many draws the barrier island of Longboat Key has to offer visitors.

Longboat Key named No. 9 island in U.S.

L

ongboat Key is included in Travel + Leisure’s Best Islands of the Continental U.S. category of the travel media company’s annual World’s Best Awards.

The barrier island was picked as the No. 9 island in the continental U.S. for its pristine, uncrowded beaches, world class resorts and diverse wildlife.

A feature of the island on Travel + Leisure describes Longboat Key as a Gulf Coast gem and recommends readers catch a sunset cruise or kayak tour, get a pickle-

ball match in at Bayfront Park or catch a bite at one of the popular restaurants on the island.

“As a longtime Tampa resident, Longboat Key is my go-to Gulf Coast beach destination when I want to feel totally transported,” wrote the author, Terry Ward.

“When you drive onto the northern end of this sand-spun island across the Longboat Pass Bridge — with the glittering expanse of the Gulf of Mexico and bobbing boats all around — it feels so much like being in the Florida Keys. And because so much of

Longboat Key is residential, the beaches here rarely feel crowded.”

Longboat Key was one of four Florida islands on the top 15 continental U.S. island ranking.

The only Florida island ahead of Longboat in the rankings was Amelia Island, located on the northeast coast. Golden Isles, Georgia, claimed the top spot nationwide.

Travel + Leisure has a reach of about 16 million readers per month, according to its website.

Sarasota County commissioners, by a 5-0 vote, approved a one-year moratorium on the acceptance or review of data center applications.

Commissioners passed the 12-month ban at their July 7 meeting. The pause will enable county staff time to evaluate how these developments — massive structures designed to provide power to meet the AI-fueled increase in energy demand — fit into the jurisdiction’s zoning code. The discussion and vote happened even though the county has yet to receive any official data center applications.

While there have been no formal applications, “Sarasota County has recently been approached by a company expressing interest in property along Cattleman Road for a data center,” according to a planning and zoning staff report provided to commissioners.

Sarasota County Assistant Director of Planning and Zoning Michele Norton said the facilities — filled with servers, networking equipment, storage systems, cooling systems and power infrastructure — can range from 100,000 to more than 1 million square feet.

Commissioners Mark Smith and Joe Neunder both spoke strongly against data centers in the county.

“Ultimately, at the end of the day, for me, it’s no, not now, never,” said Neunder. “I don’t see this as ever being something from one person’s perspective that we would ever want in our community.”

Burn bans lifted

Thanks to recent rains, Sarasota County’s burn ban has been lifted as of Sunday.

The burn ban issued by the Sarasota County Fire Department, which prohibited nonpermitted open burns, ended when the Keech Bryan Drought Index fell below 500 for seven consecutive days, reducing the wildfire threat.

Manatee County rescinded its ban on outdoor burning last week.

Both counties’ bans were in effect during the Independence Day holiday.

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TABS

W HAT ’S HAPPENING

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026

The great freeze of 1985

still impacts Longboat Key today

Voters more than 40 years ago hit the pause button on surging development when they approved a charter amendment that required resident approval for density increases. Now, the charter is being looked at again.

S.T. CARDINAL STAFF WRITER

T

he charter of the town of Longboat Key, like the Constitution of the United

States of America, is a living document, and changes to the town’s formational text can have huge ramifications.

And changes could be on the horizon, as the newly reformed Charter Review Committee is set to meet in September.

The most dramatic change to the S.T. Cardinal

charter came in 1985, when voters

staff, lobbyist Dave Ramba, state Sen. Nancy Detert and Rep. Jim Boyd, in turn, worked to advance what Mooney described as a “glitch bill” to exempt Longboat Key from the ban on density caps.

“It essentially preserved our charter referendum provision when everybody else in the state lost theirs,” Mooney said.

approved an amendment that essentially froze the rapidly increasing development on Longboat Key. “It was a great protective measure and when you look at it as compared to maybe Siesta Key or even Anna Maria Island or Lido Key, there’s a distinct difference between our island Longboat Key and those other barrier islands along the coast,” said Town Attorney Maggie Mooney. “I think that has made Longboat stand out and be the premier community it is.”

THE CHARTER REVIEW OPPORTUNITY

File images

KIT FERNALD’S GIFT TO THE TOWN

When Longboat Commissioner Kit Fernald was gathering signatures for a ballot referendum in 1985, she was also running for re-election.

The front page of the Feb. 28, 1985, edition of the Longboat Observer reported Fernald was gathering signatures for a referendum under the headline of “Density Deep Freeze Proposed In Referendum.”

Fernald’s efforts to gain signatures was successful, sending the charter amendment to the ballot.

The referendum was the hot topic of the town in 1985, as growth on the island had accelerated rapidly in recent years.

The Arvida Corporation had been busy in the ’60s, laying the groundwork for, as Ralph Hunter’s “From Calusas to Condominiums” described, “a massive development program” that included canal dredging, golf course construction and submittal of development plans to the town.

Property appraisals island-wide rose from $18.6 million in 1965 to $70.7 million in 1973.

Then it really took off. The Seaplace condominium tower began construction in 1973, adding more than 400 units. The same year, the 15-story, 90-unit Sea Gate Club condo building was constructed.

Those were two of the 39 condominium buildings constructed in the ’70s on Longboat Key. By 1984, property valuations had risen more than 810% over the decade before. Town records show 3,484 housing units were constructed in the ’70s compared to 994 in the ’60s.

In 1984, after months of planning with help by outside consultants, a comprehensive plan was reached that laid out zoning across the island, but it could be changed through rezoning requests or new comprehensive plans. The referendum was a way to shift who the decision-makers were for density increase requests from the few to all.

“Any request for additional density can be approved if the people are convinced it is to the benefit of the Key,” wrote District 1 Commissioner Hamilton Dashiell ahead of the referendum.

“If they don’t think so, influencing a few people or a few commissioners will not jeopardize the welfare of the majority of the people.”

Fernald’s opponent in the 1985 commission election, James Edmundson, wrote an op-ed where he took a neutral stance on the

Catherine “Kit” Fernald served two stints as a Longboat Key Town commissioner and was mayor in 1987.

upcoming referendum.

“If the residents of the Key feel that our present zoning needs additional protection, I see nothing wrong with it,” Edmundson wrote. “I’ve fought as hard as anyone to keep our density down.”

In March of 1985, voters cast their ballots for the at-large seat.

Edmundson won by a whisker.

Initial vote tallies showed a fivevote difference between Fernald and Edmundson for the at-large seat. The election was contested by newly elected Commissioner Robert Ross “on behalf of Fernald,” the Observer described. A hand recount confirmed Fernald’s defeat by a nine-vote margin.

The charter amendment referendum came months later, asking: “Shall the charter of the town of Longboat Key be amended to provide that the present density limitations provided in the existing comprehensive plan as adopted March 12, 1984 shall not be increased without the referendum approval of the electors of Longboat Key?” Longboat Key residents said yes by a 205-vote margin.

Fernald was re-elected to Town Commission in 1986 and was picked as mayor in 1987.

Now, the charter is going up for review again. There are three ways the town can go about changing the charter, and two of them can happen at any time.

The Town Commission can, at any time, propose an ordinance to amend the town’s charter. Voters then decide whether to approve or deny the referendum.

A charter amendment can also be initiated the same way it was in 1985. If at least 10% of the town’s registered voters sign a petition, the charter amendment appears on the ballot.

The charter review committee process, however, allows for a closer look at the charter as a whole. Earlier this month, the town of Longboat Key reformed the committee.

The charter itself dictates that a committee be formed once a decade to evaluate and review the charter.

On June 29, the Commission selected five members from seven applicants to be on that committee: Steve Baril, Mike Haycock, Susan Phillips, Ken Schneier and Howard Veit.

The five will meet to discuss potentially needed changes to the town charter. Any recommendations that come from the committee’s discussions will go to the Town Com-

mission for consideration. If commissioners agree on the proposed changes, they appear before resident voters as a ballot referendum.

Phillips, who worked as assistant to four different town managers over a 27-year span, is one of those members. Phillips describes the town charter as “our bible” and said she is approaching the charter review process with an open mind. She doesn’t have any specific changes in mind before discussions with other committee members have begun.

“You don’t want to tinker with the charter just because you can. Every 10 years, they put it in the code to make sure we pay attention to it on a routine basis and really examine it for its appropriateness,” Phillips said. “It is something to undertake with gravity, but not with a sense that you have to change the charter just because you are reviewing it.”

Mooney, who will attend the committee meetings, mentioned one thing the committee could look at is whether to change advertising requirements. The charter specifies certain public meetings be published in a newspaper to alert residents.

Whether to continue that process, which has a recurring annual cost to the town, could be in the cards, she said.

The Charter Review Committee will meet starting in September.

At 15 stories, the Islands West condominium building constructed in 1972 is one of the tallest buildings on Longboat Key. Driving north on the island, the building stands out, since the north end features more singlefamily homes and shorter hotel buildings like Four Winds Beach Resort pictured on the right.

A KEY CARVED OUT

The state of Florida has made ballot initiatives like the Fernald referendum difficult, if not impossible, to pass today, said Mooney.

“The legislature has pre-empted so much in the last 15-20 years,” Mooney said. “You almost don’t want to do anything particularly new and novel in your charter because the legislature has clamped down on so much.”

Multiple excerpts in the town charter, like the section that prohibit types of vacation rentals, are only possible because the state legislature approved the grandfathering in of restrictions in specific municipalities, including Longboat Key. In 2011, the state of Florida enacted an outright ban on local growth management referendums like Longboat Key had enshrined in its charter. Town

Islands West, one of the tallest buildings on the island, is among 39 town condominiums built in the 1970s.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026

Why Leave the Key...

Serving Longboat Key for over 10 Years

S.T. Cardinal

Michael J.O’Neil DDS MAGD

Whitney’s Restaurant on the north end of Longboat Key is planning to expand to the former bank building next door, pictured to the right.

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hitney’s, a restaurant and bar on the northern tip of Longboat Key, may soon begin an ambitious expansion, according to an application received by the town’s planning and zoning department. m aamendment sh ds Smap Alazoning appliBu owners’ a Scation details the restaurant plans for the space next door, which include demolishing the former bank building at 6960 Gulf of Mexico Drive to expand the restaurant’s outdoor seating. A rendering in the application shows an outdoor deck with lush landscaping surrounding the seating area, which is partially covered by a slatted canopy structure.

The application states the expansion will allow the restaurant to accommodate 200 diners.

The plan also includes 1,370 square feet of new construction that will include a commissary kitchen, storage and cooler space and restrooms.

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million last October will be demolished if the plans are approved.

Town approval is needed as rezoning and a comprehensive plan amendment is necessary, said Planning, Zoning and Building Director Allen Parsons. The Planning and Zoning Board will consider the requested comprehensive plan amendment and rezoning request at their Sept. 15 meeting.

The zoning amendment application points to the success the owners had in the restaurant’s original development, which repurposed an old Chevron gas station to create Whitney’s Restaurant.

“The redevelopment of that former gas station transformed a blighted and underutilized parcel into a vibrant hospitality destination that contributes positively to the character and economy of the surrounding community,” the application states.

“The success of Whitney’s demonstrates how thoughtful redevelopment can revitalize aging properties while maintaining the relaxed and informal character of the Village area of Longboat Key.”

Back-to-School

LONGBOAT

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026

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The Manasota League of Cities met on July 9 at Longboat Key Town Hall. Brian Williams from Palmetto and Debbie Scaccianoce from Bradenton Beach were absent.

MANASOTA LEAGUE OF CITIES MEMBERS

TALKING TAX

Manasota League of Cities met at Longboat Key on July 9.

S.T. Cardinal

S.T. CARDINAL STAFF WRITER

T

he thing that keeps municipal and county leaders up at night now has a name.

The question of whether to enact Florida Amendment 3 will be prefaced with the heading “Save our homes from excessive property taxes” at the ballot box this November. That ballot measure title is in all caps on the state of Florida’s constitutional initiatives website.

“That’s a pretty bold and some may say subjective name,” said Florida League of Cities Legislative Advocate Matt Singer in a presentation to the Manasota League of Cities.

Seven of the nine members of the Manasota League of Cities met for its monthly meeting on July 9 at Longboat Key Town Hall. Longboat Key Town Commissioner BJ Bishop, who serves as president of the League, said the meetings give local leaders a chance to share updates and ideas.

“One of the things we find the most useful is the sharing of information on the different strategies on a number of issues, from who are you hiring for your trash pickup

to how are you getting the word out about the issues with Amendment 3,” Bishop said.

The Florida League of Cities, which works with regional leagues like Manasota, has been busy measuring the potential effects of an approved referendum.

One hundred and seventy-six Florida cities or towns spend more on police, fire and emergency medical services than they collect in property tax revenue annually, according to an FLC presentation made by Singer at the meeting. The passage of Amendment 3 would mean 85 municipalities could not fund public safety at their current levels even if all other property tax-funded services were eliminated, the presentation said.

“The narrative that we have been combatting is that cities are taxing and taxing and taxing just to fund pet projects. Down here at the local level, we know that is not the reality,” Singer said. “Cities are not just sitting on cash and waiting to spend it on the next shiny thing.”

The property tax referendum would cut revenue for municipalities without a replacement revenue source. The state trust fund the governor’s office proposed ahead of

a special legislative session did not make it into the referendum.

“In the process before the legislature passed it down and sent it to the voters, they removed this trust fund because there was no dedicated funding,” Singer said. “So it gave the appearance that there would be some replacement revenue, but when it came time to put money in the pot, there was nothing there from the governor. They didn’t want to put their names behind $5 billion because then they’re showing that there is a hole.”

Florida League of Cities is portraying the proposal not as a tax cut but as a tax shift.

“The revenue is being removed. It will have to be replaced from somewhere in order to continue providing services at the same level,” Singer said. “One person’s tax exemption is another person’s tax increase.”

Singer shared an estimation by the Tax Foundation that if sales tax increases were used to replace property tax revenue statewide, it would need to increase by 15%. County surtaxes are already maxed in most Florida counties, meaning any needed fund replacements would need to come from the state level. The FLC

presentation writes that “under this amendment, politicians in Tallahassee decide on what gets funded in communities they don’t live in and services they don’t use.”

In other business, the Manasota League of Cities chose the next executive director of the organization. The League, choosing among three applicants, decided to offer the job to Christopher Hawks. He currently serves as intergovernmental relations coordinator for the city of Largo. He previously worked in Kentucky as emergency management director, solid waste program director and chamber of commerce executive director.

Bishop said the position is paid hourly with specific terms to be determined. It’s an hourly position, she said, and she doesn’t believe the former director ever had bigger paycheck than $1,500 or $1,600 a month.

The Manasota League of Cities is funded through dues paid by the nine municipalities and from a monthly FLC disbursement. Holmes Beach Commissioner Terry Schaefer, treasurer of the Manasota League of Cities, shared that the organization has $87,566 in its accounts.

The Manasota League of Cities is made up of representatives from each of the municipalities in Sarasota and Manatee counties.

Each commission or council chooses who will represent their municipality annually. The nine members and their municipalities are listed below. n Jen AhearnKoch, Sarasota n BJ Bishop (president), Longboat Key n Lisa Gonzalez Moore (vice president), Bradenton n Nick Pachota, Venice n Demetrius Petrow, North Port n Charles Salem, Anna Maria n Debbie Scaccianoce, Bradenton Beach n Terry Schaefer (treasurer), Holmes Beach n Brian Williams, Palmetto

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026

Sarasota waterfront estate lists for nearly $15M This marks the Lido Shores estate’s first public listing in 50 years.

The 1.34-acre property features 247 feet of western shoreline.

ELIZABETH KING BUSINESS OBSERVER

A

spacious waterfront estate in Lido Shores has hit the market for $14.9 million.

The house at 1157 Westway Drive spans more than 9,100 square feet.

It has six bedrooms, four full bathrooms and two half baths. Some of the highlights, according to a statement, are a library and a billiards room.

Water views are present throughout the home, which includes multiple terraces. The property overlooks the gulf, with 247 feet of westernfacing shoreline. It was designed by Sarasota architecture firm Seibert Architects.

The 1.34-acre property was publicly listed last week, the first time since it was built in 1974. In its more than 50-year history, it has had two owners, “both recognized for their enduring contributions to the Sarasota community,” according to Melodie Palmer, the Premier Sotheby’s International Realty agent who is representing the property. Past owners include Joseph Penner and Ira Barsky.

“Joseph Penner made a lasting contribution to Sarasota through his development work, including what was formerly known as the Penner Building, now One Sarasota Tower,” Palmer says in an email. Barsky cofounded the Animal Rescue Coalition in Sarasota in 1999 after retiring from a career in business.

Part of the appeal of the property is the opportunity to create a legacy estate, according to Palmer.

“The site once included a tennis court, which the Barsky family later transformed into expansive lawn space, illustrating how the property has evolved to meet the needs and preferences of its owners over time,” Palmer says.

Images courtesy of Poff Media Group

The next owners may have a different vision for the grounds, whether for recreational amenities, guest accommodations, gardens or green space.

“What we consistently see at this price point is that buyers want options,” Palmer says. “Privacy and security are extremely important, particularly because many luxury buyers are purchasing a second or third residence. They are looking for a home that serves as a retreat for family and friends while also offering flexibility for how they live today and in the future. What makes this property so compelling is that it offers something that is becoming increasingly rare: choice.”

In June, a residence in Lido Shores sold for $13.37 million, approximately 0.4 mile from the Westway Drive estate. About 0.6 mile away, another Lido Shores home was listed for nearly $13 million this spring.

Windows overlook the pool and waterfront.

The property overlooks the gulf, with 247 feet of western-facing shoreline.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026

OPINION / MY VIEW

LONGBOAT

Why the worst rise to top

MATT WALSH

“When the pot boils, the scum will rise.”

— James Otis Jr. American Revolutionary activist 1776

B

y comparison to other U.S. locales, we are so fortunate in Manatee and Sarasota counties and in Florida.

So fortunate that we do not have the scourge of the surge — the surge of the delusional, ignorant communists overtaking New York City and that state’s legislative and congressional seats and which is also spreading throughout the Democratic Party nationwide.

Surely you find chilling and stomach-turning the rants of the likes of New York City Mayor Zoran Momdani and Democratic Socialist candidates Claire Valdez and Darializa Avila Chevalier.

Valdez touts the “Medicare for all” slogans; federal funding for all abortions and transgender surgeries; abolish ICE; free federal funding for all college education, including living expenses; “unions for all;” “housing for all;” a federal jobs guarantee; and ensuring “everyone has a right to living wages and paid time off.”

Chevalier has said on X she wants to “seize the means of production;” abolish police, prisons and borders. Essentially, she mirrors and aligns with Valdez: eliminate entrepreneurial capitalism; convert to tyrannical collectivism; and hate all Jews and Israel.

It’s incomprehensible and tragic how completely ignorant and pathetic all of these Democratic Party communists and socialists are. Whom do they think will pay for all of this?

What’s more, do you think Mr. “Warmth of Collectivism” Momdani or any of his associates has a clue that when the Pilgrims tried collectivism on Plymouth Colony they nearly starved themselves out of existence? It was only after Gov. William Bradford converted the colonists to owning

private property and capitalism that the colonists produced surpluses of food and began to flourish.

Or do you think they have any idea that another infamous collectivist, Mao Zedong, was responsible over his three decade reign for the deaths of between 30 million and 45 million Chinese people? Deaths from starvation brought on by Zedong’s complete collectivization of “the means of production?”

Or what about that great Soviet, Joseph Stalin, who clocked in at 9 million deaths — 3 million from executions and imprisonments and another 6.5 million during the great famine in 1932 and 1933?

And yet, this communist utopia thinking has spread like COVID among so many “college educated” young Americans.

Mind boggling. And scary.

It feels somewhat like the previous scariest political time during the turmoil-ridden, antiVietnam era of the 1960s. The dope-smoking, acid-dropping, gun-toting radicals of the Students for a Democratic Society rocked the country with their antiestablishment, anti-capitalism bombings and killings. But back then, those reprobates did not try to infiltrate elected offices.

Electing and giving power to today’s idiots would be horrific.

Do not dismiss the possibility.

Indeed, to that end, it would be a worthwhile warning to all of us — here and everywhere in the U.S. — to heed and understand one of the most insightful essays of the late Austrian economist Friedrich Hayek. In his 1944 classic book, “A Road to Serfdom,” he devotes an entire chapter to: “Why the Worst Get on Top.” We are living it.

CONDITIONS FOR THE WORST

Hayek describes stages that result in the worst getting on top. You certainly can apply them to some of our elections today.

He first describes the conditions preceding “the suppression of democratic institutions and the creation of a totalitarian regime.”

“In this stage, it is the general demand for quick and determined government action that is the dominating element in the situation, dissatisfaction with the slow and cumbersome course of democratic procedure which makes action for action’s sake the goal.”

You can hear that in the rhetoric of so many candidates today no matter the party. They’re constantly spouting their disappointment in and the inaction of the incumbents.

“It’s time for change” the call goes.

You remember “Hope and change.”

They all chant promises of how they’re going to make our lives

better. Blah, blah, blah.

Hayek: “It is then the (candidate) or the party who seems strong and resolute enough ‘to get things done’ who exercises the greatest appeal.” Sound like Trump? In New York City, it was the flowery demagoguery of Momdani versus the washed-up Andrew Cuomo.

Hayek: “‘Strong’ in this sense means not merely a numerical majority — it is the ineffectiveness of parliamentary majorities with which people are dissatisfied.” He has that right — e.g. Congress, no matter the party.

Hayek: “What they will seek is somebody with such solid support as to inspire confidence that he can carry out whatever he wants.”

That somebody, Hayek says, must also do this: It “depends on the leader first collecting round him a group which is prepared voluntarily to submit to that totalitarian discipline which they are to impose by force upon the rest.”

What’s more, Hayek says, it doesn’t take a majority; it takes “the largest single group whose members agree sufficiently to make unified direction of all affairs … ” In forming this “fairly homogenous group,” Hayek says, there are three main reasons this group will come “from the worst elements of any society. … The principles on which such a group would be selected will be almost entirely negative.”

THREE NEGATIVE PRINCIPLES ■ Principle No. 1: “First, the higher

the education and intelligence of individuals become, the more their tastes and views are differentiated and the less likely they are to agree on a particular hierarchy of values.

“If we wish to find a high degree of uniformity in outlook, we have to descend to the regions of lower moral and intellectual standards where the more primitive and ‘common’ instincts and tastes prevail,” Hayek wrote.

“This does not mean that the majority of people have low moral standards; it merely means that the largest group of people whose values are very similar are the people with low standards.

“It is, as it were, the lowest common denominator which unites the largest number of people. … It will be those who form the ‘mass’ in the derogatory sense of the term, the least original and independent, who will be able to put the weight of their numbers behind their particular ideals.”

■ Principle No. 2: Because the first group will not be large enough “to give sufficient weight to the leader’s endeavors,” he will have to convert more people to his or her creed.

The candidate must gain “the support of the docile and gullible,

who have no strong convictions but are ready to accept a readymade system of values if it is only drummed into their ears sufficiently loudly and frequently.

“It will be those whose vague and imperfectly formed ideas are easily swayed and whose passions and emotions are readily aroused who will thus swell the ranks of the totalitarian party.”

■ Principle No. 3: Hayek says this one is the most important. “It is easier for people to agree on a negative program — on the hatred of an enemy, on the envy of those better off — than on any positive task.”

We hear it daily: hatred of Jews, Israel, billionaires, corporations and, locally, developers.

Ginning up this hatred and envy, Hayek wrote, is “always employed by those who seek … the unreserved allegiance of huge masses.”

BE AN INFORMED VOTER

How can we counter this?

It starts with education. In this 250th year of our nation’s founding, it’s a reminder that we must repeat and repeat with our family members — young and old — that nowhere else in the world is a nation rooted in the principles that “all men are created equal” and that we have “unalienable rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” We are in charge of our own destiny.

Government is to be our servant.

Likewise, as the 2026 elections draw near, be an informed voter.

Remember that the Revolutionary War was about liberty, and the Constitution was about limiting government. Here’s a litmus test to pose to every candidate: What takes a higher precedence — individual liberty or the collective community?

When James Madison wrote in the Federalist papers, Madison envisioned those serving in office as “enlightened leaders” who “would demonstrate their wisdom and virtue more by what they did not do than by what they did,” wrote Isaac Kramnick in “James Madison, Alexander Hamilton and John Jay — The Federalist Papers.”

“They would not pass unjust laws that interfered with private rights. They would respect liberty, justice and property and run a limited government.” In Federalist 62, Madison warned that “excess of lawmaking” and “voluminous laws” would be the “diseases” most likely to occur.

And then there was John Adams.

He believed for our republic to succeed, Americans needed to be virtuous — to do the right thing, the right way, for the right reason.

So look for the virtuous candidates who embrace individual liberty over the collective mob — so the worst will not get on top.

The myopic commissioners, and why Neunder, Smith should go

“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 President and Publisher / Emily Walsh, EWalsh@YourObserver.com Executive Editor and COO / Kat Wingert, KWingert@YourObserver.com Managing Editor / Leah Schwarting, LSchwarting@YourObserver.com Staff Writers / S.T. “Tommy” Cardinal TCardinal@YourObserver.com; Dana Kampa, DKampa@YourObserver.com Digital News Analytics and Marketing Strategist / Kaelyn Adix, KAdix@YourObserver.com Digital News Editor / Eric Garwood, EGarwood@YourObserver.com Copy Editor / Gina Reynolds Haskins, GRHaskins@YourObserver.com Senior Editorial Designer / Melissa Leduc, MLeduc@YourObserver.com Editorial Designer / Jenn Edwards, JEdwards@YourObserver.com A+E Editor / Monica Roman Gagnier, MGagnier@YourObserver.com Chief Revenue Officer / Jill Raleigh, JRaleigh@YourObserver.com Advertising Director / Penny Nowicki, PNowicki@YourObserver.com Senior Sales Executive / Richeal McGuinness, RMcGuinness@ YourObserver.com; Toni Perren, TPerren@ YourObserver.com Advertising Executives / Jennifer Kane, JKane@YourObserver.com; Honesty Mantkowski, HMantkowski@ YourObserver.com; Marcus Ponce, MPonce@YourObserver.com; Anna Reich, Anna@YourObserver.com; Brenda White, BWhite@YourObserver.com Classified Advertising Sales Executive / Sydney Schunk, SSchunk@YourObserver. com Head of Sales Operations / Susan Leedom, SLeedom@YourObserver.com Account Managers / Lori Downey, LDowney@YourObserver.com; Caitlin Ellis, CEllis@YourObserver.com Advertising and Event Coordinator / Marisa Merlino, MMerlino@YourObserver. com Director of Strategic Growth / Kathleen O’Hara, KOHara@YourObserver.com Strategic Marketing Coordinator / Landyn Park, LPark@YourObserver.com Social Media and Content Manager / Emma Burke, EBurke@YourObserver.com Tributes Coordinator / Kristen Boothroyd, Tributes@YourObserver.com Director of Creative Services and IT / Caleb Stanton, CStanton@YourObserver. com Creative Services Administrator / Marjorie Holloway, MHolloway@ YourObserver.com Advertising Graphic Designers / Luis Trujillo, Taylor Poe, Louise Martin, Shawna Polana Digital Developer / Jason Camillo, JCamillo@YourObserver.com Information Technology Manager / Homer Gallego, HGallego@YourObserver. com Controller / Rafael Labrin, RLabrin@ YourObserver.com Office and Accounting Coordinator / Donna Condon, DCondon@ YourObserver.com

ere is one of many reasons why All one-sided information.

H Sarasota County CommissionOf course, all five of the ers Mark Smith and Joe Neunder commissioners took the bait. Smith should not be re-elected: Their myopic comments last week about data centers.

If you missed it, Sarasota County commissioners voted 5-0 to create a one-year moratorium on the acceptance or review of data center applications.

They did this to give the county planning staff time to evaluate how and whether large data centers fit in the county’s zoning codes.

To be sure, it is a smart move to be prepared. But the county, mind you, has not received any applications for data centers, although a company has expressed interest in property along Cattleman Road.

So, to throw gas and light the match against data centers — even though she said she did not intend to be hyperbolic, Assistant Director of Planning and Zoning Michele Norton shared with the commissioners the accompanying photo of a 400-acre Meta Platforms Inc. data center in Mesa, Arizona.

And then Norton did what everyone else who opposes data centers does — gave details on “the extraordinary consumption of electricity, land and water” to operate the facility.

and Neunder led the commission comments, while Commissioners Teresa Mast, Ron Cutsinger and Tom Knight all endorsed what the other two said.

Neunder was first to launch his opposition with his usual bombastic bloviating: “I have taken a significant dive into this particular topic. Ultimately, at the end of the day (his standard cliché), for me, it’s no, not now, never.

“Whatever we have to do from a policy perspective from this board and being married to a science teacher and really going down the rabbit hole here, I don’t see this as ever being something, from one person’s perspective, that we would ever want in our community … At the end of the day (There’s that cliché again.), this is a hard, hard no for me,” Neunder said.

Then Smith, always more docile, noted that he has attended numerous data center seminars at the state and national levels.

“Environmentally, I think it’s a disaster … The hum of these things, the size of them, they’re lit up like prisons because of security reasons at night. They don’t belong in Sara-

Observer Media Group Inc.

Photo courtesy of Sarasota County

Meta Platforms’ 400-acre, 2.5 million-square-foot data center in Mesa, Arizona.

By comparison, all of University Town Center is about 500 acres (plus traffic).

sota County … (W)e need to put in our codes to make sure they can’t apply. And so that anybody who’s thinking about coming here need not enter.”

No doubt, there are many readers who will cheer the commissioners’ votes. But if any of these five entrusted with leading the county tried living without horse blinders on and had the smarts to try to envision the future, they all should have said something to the effect of: “I understand people’s concerns about data centers. But do any of you think it would be worthwhile to hear the other side of the story?

“Before imposing moratoria or declaring forever opposition to any kind of data centers, do you think it would be worthwhile to know the consequences that have occurred in communities with data

centers? What are the trade-offs, the benefits and the adverse effects on taxpayers, the economy and environment?”

But no. This is yet another instance of myopic people ignoring future infrastructure needs — just as Sarasota County commissions have done for 50 years.

Question: How many of you think the demand for more computing power, for better cellphone connections, for more and faster digital access is going to decline?

Likely no one. Wouldn’t it be wiser, then, to be open-minded to whatever innovations come in the future? Think ahead.

Come the Aug. 18 primary election, Sarasota County voters should do themselves a favor — send Smith and Neunder packing.

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9

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026

Savannah Cobb will lead the town communications team starting in October.

S.T. CARDINAL STAFF WRITER

T

he town of Longboat Key continues its slow-moving change of guard.

A new mayor was chosen in March. The police chief has been on the job for less than a year. The town manager’s replacement will begin in September. And on Oct. 1, there will be a new head of communications.

Savannah Cobb will lead the town’s communications team starting in the fall, taking on new responsibilities that include responding to requests from the media and public. Tina Adams, who has led the five-person communications team since its makeshift reformation in the wake of the 2024 hurricanes, will continue as spokesperson for the police and fire departments.

“It’s going to help relieve me of some of my duties,” Adams said.

“I’ll be able to get back more into the public safety side of it and get a bit more creative with our content.”

Cobb began working for the town as an intern in 2017 after graduating from the University of Florida. She worked in the town clerk’s office as administrative assistant at the front desk. When Susan Phillips retired from her position as assistant to the town manager in 2025, Cobb applied and started in the new role, where she assists both the town manager and assistant town manager in daily duties and oversees large projects such as the Citizen’s Academy and annual survey.

She has worked on the Key for nearly a decade, and lived there even longer, growing up on the barrier island.

“I have a lot of emotional equity into this community. I love it. It’s

FRIDAY, JULY 3

JET SKIS ‘CAUSING ISSUES’ 11:50 a.m., 3155 Gulf of Mexico Drive Suspicious person: Longboat police were dispatched to a beachfacing condo community in response to a report of “jet skis causing issues.” The officer saw several personal watercraft in the vicinity of the beach, but did not notice any criminal behavior. The operators were giving rides to people on the beach and were not operating dangerously. The officer requested a marine unit visit the area and closed the case.

FRIDAY, JULY 3 S.T. Cardinal

pretty much all I’ve ever known,” Cobb said. “So it’s kind of like an honor and privilege to be able to give back through a public service.”

Leading communications was a task Phillips undertook when she was on the job. Now, communications will once again stem from the town manager’s office.

“I think (Cobb’s) role in the town manager’s office makes her a good fit,” Adams said. “A lot of our information is coming out of the town manager’s office to begin with, so it only makes sense having that role come from the town manager’s office.”

Cobb said in the coming months she will focus on understanding the responsibilities of leading a communications team to ensure a seamless transition.

“From the outside looking in, the transition should be seamless,” Cobb said. “The main thing was just to take more off Tina’s plate.

We have a team now, and I think that’s a huge benefit to the town.”

Cobb can be reached at 941-3161955 or by email at SCobb@LongboatKey.org.

Executive Assistant Savannah Cobb will take over as the lead of communications for the town, aside from fire rescue and police communications, starting in October.

“I have a lot of emotional equity into this community.

I love it ...”

— Savannah Cobb

JUST WATCHING TV 11:10 p.m., 4235 Gulf of Mexico Drive Noise disturbance: A woman on vacation watching TV got a knock on the door from the police. The complainant, an employee at the hotel, called to say a guest at a specific room had been making excessive noise and flashed white lights toward the beach. An officer did not hear any loud noise or see any white lights upon arrival. The officer knocked on the door of the room and was told by the guest she had been watching TV. The officer closed the case due to lack of evidence of any wrongdoing by the visitor.

SATURDAY, JULY 4

JUST LIGHTING FIREWORKS 9:03 p.m., 4235 Gulf of Mexico Drive Information report: An employee of a hotel called the police on beachgoers lighting fireworks on Independence Day. Police arrived on scene to find several

COPS CORNER

Communication change

individuals on the beach who told police they were unaware of the burn ban in effect. The suspects were cooperative when asked to stop lighting fireworks, and police closed the case.

TUESDAY, JULY 7

PLEASE DON’T BARK AT THE TURTLES 12:36 a.m., 2509 Gulf of Mexico Drive Animal problem: A woman who was on the beach with her friends called police after witnessing a man in his 50s bothering a sea turtle attempting to lay eggs on the beach late at night. When police arrived, the complainant described a man and his family approaching a nesting sea turtle with a white light. The woman said she asked the man to turn off the light and leave the turtle alone. The woman said she detected the scent of alcohol on the man, who was carrying a large camera and told the group he was filming them. The man reportedly also barked at the sea turtle during the interaction.

Police canvassed the area, as well as the resort the man was walking toward, to no avail, and closed the case.

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JULY 16, 2026

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

ROCK ’N’

R

SES

Lynn Goldsmith’s photos celebrate nature and her collaboration with Selby Artist-In-Residence Patti Smith.

MONICA ROMAN GAGNIER

IF YOU GO

‘SHARED LIGHT: LYNN GOLDSMITH’ When: Through Sept. 8 Where: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St. Tickets: $28 Info: Visit Selby.org.

Images courtesy of Matthew Holler

Lynn Goldsmith’s photography exhibition, “Shared Light,” is on display indoors and outside at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens through Sept. 13.

A+E EDITOR

A

visitor exploring the oversized photos indoors and outside at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens could assume that the exhibition, “Shared Light: Lynn Goldsmith,” is about flowers. But according to Goldsmith, the show is about friendship.

Unless you’re an aficionado of photography or rock ’n’ roll, you might not immediately recognize Goldsmith’s name. But her images of artists such as The Rolling Stones, Grand Funk Railroad and Bruce Springsteen are in books, private collections and museums.

Her long creative collaboration with punk rocker and poet Patti Smith, Selby’s inaugural artist in residence, is the thread that runs through “Shared Light.”

On a recent morning tour, it’s immediately apparent that Goldsmith is the cool kid in the group. The blue jeans she’s wearing are embellished with pockets, straps and rings.

When someone asks her where she bought the distinctive denim, she steers them toward the website of Tripp NYC. “The designer is a friend of mine,” Goldsmith says.

The brief exchange underscores the importance of friendship to Goldsmith, something she mentions several times during the course of an hour.

Asked when she and Smith met, Goldsmith says neither of them can remember exactly, but that it was in the mid-1970s, around the time Smith’s debut studio album, “Horses,” was released.

Goldsmith recalls that she got a phone call from Smith, who said, “So-and-so says this about you.

Therefore, I think you must be great!” The two have been friends ever since.

In 1977, Goldsmith photographed Smith for the cover of her album, “Easter.” The photo ultimately chosen shows Smith with her hands tugging on her hair. The album symbolized a resurrection of sorts for Smith, who had broken her neck and was regaining movement in her arms.

During the tour at Selby Gardens,

Monica Roman Gagnier

Lynn Goldsmith

Goldsmith recalled how she was inspired to photograph Smith using flowers that she had left over from another assignment.

“Shared Light” contains a photo tribute to Goldsmith’s friendship with Smith, through a series of photographs in the Richard and Ellen Sandor Museum of Botany and the Arts. In the gallery that Goldsmith referred to as the “purple room,” there are photos of Smith taken in the mid-1970s.

“The reason why they’re chosen is because it establishes that timeline of a friendship. For me, friendship goes through many of the same changes as the life of a flower,” says Goldsmith.

The two longtime friends recently collaborated on a luxe coffee table book published by Taschen, called “Before Easter After” ($1,000) that includes hundreds of unseen photos taken by Goldsmith and previously private texts by Smith. There is also a more affordable edition published

by Rizzoli ($65).

An interior view of “Shared Light: Lynn Goldsmith” at Selby Gardens.

A STONES FAN FROM THE START

Goldsmith got her start as a rock ’n’ roll photographer early. She was living with her mother and stepfather in Miami when she had the opportunity to shoot The Beatles in the lobby of a hotel. Goldsmith, who was 16 at the time, was not impressed by the Fab Four; she was a Rolling Stones fan. At the time, “you had to choose between the two,” she told the University of Michigan alumni magazine.

Goldsmith’s creative, sometimes unconventional, approach was evident even then. She chose to photograph little more than the Beatles’ boots.

A native of Detroit, Goldsmith is the daughter of an engineer and an interior decorator. When she was studying English and psychology at the U of M in Ann Arbor, Smith became friends with a fellow student named James Osterberg. The world would later know him as the rock star Iggy Pop. Goldsmith’s trajectory in the music business began when she was hired as director of publicity, marketing and advertising at Elektra Records in 1969. That led to a celebrated career photographing and managing rock stars.

Though it may seem tame by today’s standards, Goldsmith’s cover for Grand Funk Railroad’s album, “We’re An American Band,” was controversial at the time. It showed the band members in the nude among bales of hay.

Although the huge photos at Selby Gardens appear to be taken in the wild, that’s not the case.

Smith used to rise early and go to the Chelsea Flower Market in New York City, where restaurants, hotels and decorators procure fresh flowers each morning. There she would roam, taking close-ups of flowers using a Nikon camera with a single 50-millimeter lens.

“New York is oftentimes not the easiest place to live, but when you get up and go to the flower market, it’s well worth it,” Goldsmith says.

“You’d think people wouldn’t be happy at 5 a.m., but they are. The

flower market is a place where people are so kind to each other — really nice — and everything smells good.”

These solitary expeditions with a single camera and available light were a marked contrast to Goldsmith’s life as a studio photographer of boldface names.

“Portraiture involves having assistants and makeup people, the stylist, the publicist, the manager. It’s like a lot of people. I usually have a tray in the studio with different cameras on it,” she says.

Goldsmith may have a low-key, boho vibe, but she isn’t someone with whom you want to tangle.

In addition to being a trailblazer as a rock ’n’ roll manager and photographer, she isn’t afraid to stand up for her intellectual property.

When Andy Warhol (or perhaps one of his assistants) used her 1981 photos of the musician Prince to make a series of silkscreens, Goldsmith took her case all the way to the Supreme Court and won.

After the justices ruled 7-2 in Goldsmith’s favor, a settlement was reached in May 2024.

The Andy Warhol Foundation agreed to drop its claims, pay her legal fees and compensate her for using her images.

When she and Smith were working on the book “Before Easter After,” they decided they needed to take a photo of Smith’s shoes her mother had donated to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

The Cleveland-based museum was reluctant to part with the foot-

wear, even for a photo shoot. “So we both got on the phone and I was like, ‘I’ll never loan you anything again,’” Goldsmith says. “So they brought the shoes, but they would only bring them to Patti’s house.”

Although she now lives in Nashville, Goldsmith considers herself an honorary Floridian because she went to high school in Miami. “Back then, the only air conditioning was in the library, so I read a lot,” she says.

Despite her Florida roots, Goldsmith has never photographed orchids in the wild.

She noted that in her world travels, she was impressed by the landscape of Argentina.

Goldsmith chose the photos to exhibit outside and decided where to place them using video sent to her

by David Berry, Selby’s chief curator.

“Dave generously walked it (the path) for me on video, so that I could get a feel of where the path was taking you and what you were seeing along the path,” Goldsmith says.

“These banyan trees are just extraordinary. The only thing that seemed to be (missing) was color.”

As she took visitors on a tour of her work that spans roughly five decades, Goldsmith waxed philosophical.

Through her recent book with Smith and the “Shared Light” exhibition, she has been “able to bring forward the kind of fragility and endurance that flowers and friendships have in common.”

Whether it’s the beauty of nature or a long creative partnership, Goldsmith takes nothing for granted.

A close-up of a dahlia was photographed by Lynn Goldsmith.

These solitary expeditions with a single camera and available light were a marked contrast to Goldsmith’s life as a studio photographer of boldface names.

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026

THURSDAY

Sarasota Contemporary Dance presents an In-The-Round performance at its home studio on Friday, July 17.

‘DOG MOM’ 7 p.m. at Florida Studio Theatre’s Keating Theatre, 1241 N. Palm Ave. $25-$46 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

FLIP SCHULTZ 7 p.m. at McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre, 1923 Ringling Blvd. $26 Visit McCurdysComedy.com.

There are few places in the world that Flip Schultz’ multifaceted comedy hasn’t taken him. He’s appeared on TV’s “Last Comic Standing,” has performed overseas for the military on several tours and is a popular comedian on cruise lines. In addition to telling his own jokes, doing improv and acting out the antics of his various alter egos, Schultz writes jokes and songs. You may know “The Lox Song” from “The Dr. Demento Show.” Runs through July 19.

‘LEAVING ON A JET PLANE’ 7:30 p.m. at Florida Studio Theatre’s Goldstein Cabaret, 1239 N. Palm Ave. $42 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

Created by Aaron Gundy, “Leaving on a Jet Plane” features an acoustic trio who take you on a flight to the feel-good era of folk music in the late 1960s and 1970s. Among the singer/songwriters whose works are featured in this upbeat show are Simon & Garfunkel, Cat Stevens, Crosby, Stills & Nash and the Lovin’ Spoonful. Runs through July 26.

‘MARVIN: A MARVIN GAYE REVUE’ 7:30 p.m. at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N. Orange Ave. $54 adults; $24 students, and active military Visit WestcoastBlackTheatre.org.

Image courtesy of Sorcha Augustine

SATURDAY

THIS WEEK Image courtesy of Adrian Van Stee

Ellie Papataros stars as the Wicked Witch in Asolo Repertory Theatre’s youth edition of “The Wizard of Oz.”

This is a sneak peek of the show Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe is taking to the 2026 International Black Theatre Festival in WinstonSalem, North Carolina. Sheldon Rhoden, who has played Marvin Gaye in four runs of “Prince of Soul,” returns for the musical revue, along with other WBTT artists. Like the man he plays, Rhoden attracts a legion of besotted, mostly female fans. Runs through July 24.

FRIDAY

SCD’S IN-THE-ROUND 7 p.m. at Sarasota Contemporary Dance, 1400 Boulevard of the Arts, Suite 300 $20 Visit SarasotaContemporaryDance. org.

‘COMEDY LOTTERY’ 7:30 p.m. at FST’s Bowne’s Lab $15-$18 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

DON’T MISS ‘THE WIZARD OF OZ: YOUTH EDITION’ Asolo Repertory Theatre continues its summer tradition of staging a family-oriented musical with “The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition.” Follow Dorothy, Toto, the Tin Man, the Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion on the yellow brick road to family entertainment.

The hourlong show runs through Aug. 8.

IF YOU GO When: 4 p.m. Thursday, July 16 Where: Cook Theatre, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail Tickets: $15-$19 Info: Visit AsoloRep.org.

Sarasota Contemporary Dance’s In-The-Round gives upcoming choreographers from across the country the chance to develop and present a work in progress during SCD’s Summer Intensive.

Choreographers receive audience feedback following the performance in a process facilitated by SCD Artistic Director Leymis Bolaños Wilmott.

Florida Studio Theatre’s own improv troupe takes over Bowne’s Lab with “Comedy Lottery,” giving the audience a chance to select the night’s games. If FST Improv isn’t on your radar, it’s time for a new machine. Runs through July 25.

SUNDAY

‘SOMETHING BORROWED, SOMETHING NEW’ 11 a.m. at the Sarasota Art Museum campus of Ringling College, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail $20 Visit SarasotaArtMuseum.org.

“Something Borrowed, Something New” features major modern artists such as Louise Bourgeois, Chuck Close, David Hockney, Yoko Ono, Kara Walker and Ai Weiwei. Their works have been loaned by private collectors for the show, which runs through Sept. 27. Don’t miss the massive Hockney on loan from Stanton Storer, “Inside It Opens Up As Well.”

MONDAY

ANCIENT ART FROM CYPRUS AND THE MEDITERRANEAN 10 a.m. at The John and Mable Ringling Art Museum, 5401 Bay Shore Road Free with $30 admission; Mondays free Visit Ringling.org.

OUR PICK

SUMMER CIRCUS SPECTACULAR The Ringling and the Circus Arts Conservatory join forces for their annual Summer Circus Spectacular in the Historic Asolo Theater. Ringmaster Ashley Vargas, a veteran of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey and circuses around the world, presides over a showcase of jugglers, roller skaters, hand balancers and a clown she happens to be married to: Davis Vassallo.

For $5 more, make it a circus day and tour The Ringling’s Historic Circus Galleries and Tibbals Learning Center, which contains a miniature circus of 42,000 pieces built by Howard Tibbals. Runs through Aug. 8.

IF YOU GO When: 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Thursday, July 16 Where: the Historic Asolo Theatre, 5401 Bay Shore Road Tickets: $15-$20 Info: Visit Ringling.org.

In 1928, circus magnate John Ringling moved beyond collecting Baroque paintings with a major acquisition of more than 2,000 pieces of Cypriot art at the Anderson Galleries in New York, where the Metropolitan Museum was selling parts of its ancient art collection. For the first time, Ringling’s treasures have a permanent home in Gallery 12 after a decadelong project.

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A New Play National Rolling Network premiere by playwright Tate Elizabeth Hanyok, “Dog Mom” is being produced by regional theaters in Portland, Oregon; Sunnyvale, California; Sacramento, California, and Sarasota’s Florida Studio Theatre. Directed by Nancy Rominger, “Dog Mom” follows a hardnosed New Yorker whose heart begins to melt after she fosters a stray dog. Runs through Aug. 2.

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Fogartyville gets a face-lift

37

Grants allow the listening room to add a built-in bar, more restrooms and flexible seating options.

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421 N Lime Ave • Sarasota FL 34237 (941) 366-6693 • MealsOnWheelsOfSarasota.org

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and operated for five years in Bradenton. In 2013, the community nightclub moved to 525 Kumquat Court and obtained a license for WSLR, a low-watt radio station at 96.5 on the FM dial.

In 2024, Sweeting and Beaton moved to Michigan and passed the reins to Coleman, and Ariel Aparicio-Jerro, director of Fogartyville, who handles booking at the nightclub, which bills itself as “Sarasota’s favorite listening room.”

“Our founders, Dave and Arlene, did an amazing job of building community and we’ve been able to build on that,” Coleman notes. “Fogartyville/WSLR is a place where volunteers can get involved and feel a sense of ownership.”

Coleman says that WSLR/Fogartyville is remaining true to its mission of promoting community engagement and supporting social justice.

Although most Fogartyville patrons drive to concerts, art openings and other events, Coleman says the listening room is seeing a lot more pedestrian traffic in the Rosemary District due to new condos and apartments going up in the neighborhood.

Earlier this year, Fogartyville painted its exterior and added new signage. A mural painted by New Orleans street artist Brandan Odums in September 2014 was removed because it was in such poor condition. Coleman says a formal call for mural art by local artists will be issued later this year.

Further improvements to Fogartyville’s physical plant are on the way. The June upgrade was Phase One of a three-phase process, which will be completed in time for Fogartyville/WSLR’s annual fall open house, Coleman says.

Fogartyville General Manager Jesse Coleman and Director Ariel Aparicio-Jerro pose outside the repainted exterior of Fogartyville in the Rosemary District.

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he next time you attend a concert at Fogartyville Community Center in the Rosemary District, you’ll be able to belly up to a well-appointed bar and order a draft beer. That wasn’t possible until the listening room’s recent renovation.

Beer and wine were sold from a cart without a tap to dispense beverages.

The addition of a dishwasher allows the bar to serve beverages in glasses instead of the plastic cups Fogartyville previously used.

The new bar is part of a renovation that opened to the public with the July 12 appearance of indie folk artist Remi Goode.

Fogartyville closed for the month of June to add the bar, increase the number of bathrooms and take delivery of stackable tables and chairs for the club’s interior, as well as new patio furniture.

In addition to providing a better experience for its patrons, Fogartyville is renting out its upgraded space for private parties and nonprofit mixers. It recently hired Susan Lojacono as its new event sales manager.

The new furniture allows Fogartyville to seat 120 patrons inside, up from 106 seats, and to clear the room entirely because the tables and chairs can be stacked on trolleys and stored in a shed outside.

Seating on the patio has been improved with the addition of brightly colored red and aqua chairs, but capacity remains the same at 90 seats.

Jesse Coleman, general manager of Fogartyville and its affiliated public radio station, WSLR 96.5, says Fogartyville’s facilities provide an alternative to some of “the bland meeting spaces available at local hotels.”

Nonprofits who now book the space will find improved tech capabilities for presentations, he says.

The recent Fogartyville upgrades are part of a $250,000 renovation project funded with assistance from Impact 100 SRQ, a group of women who collectively award what are termed “transformational” grants of at least $100,000, the Selby Foundation and individual benefactors, including those who donated a total of $74,822 during the Community Foundation of Sarasota’s Giving Challenge in April.

Fogartyville was founded in 2002

by Arlene Sweeting and Dave Beaton

Classifieds 28 Games 27 Real Estate 25 Weather 27

JULY 16, 2026

YOUR NEIGHBORS There’s the

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

sweet spot New frozen custard shop opens ahead of National Ice Cream Month.

DANA KAMPA STAFF WRITER

S

ummer is heating up in southwest Florida, and, just in time to help patrons beat the heat, a new frozen treats spot is firing up the freezers and bringing frozen custard to Longboat Key. M & W Sweet Spot recently opened at the Centre Shops in place of Tyler’s Ice Cream. It is in good company. Nearby St. Armands Key has nearly a dozen shops selling frozen treats and has always played host to ice cream innovation, such as waffle cones.

Fittingly, July is also National Ice Cream Month, and National Ice Cream Day is Sunday, July 19. The weather is hot, and many are turning to ice cream shops for sweet relief.

Michael Garey, local restaurateur and owner of the neighboring Lazy Lobster, was a part owner of Tyler’s and is now bringing on two new young partners. He noted that, even though this is considered Longboat’s low season, July is historically the third busiest month in the year at the newly rechristened M & W. Garey is the “M” in M & W — the owners’ father, Wolfe Shaw, is the “W” — but, otherwise, the shop has seen a robust overhaul with new coowners, brothers Logan and Calvin Shaw; a new menu and a new flagship dessert.

The Shaws brought in a doublebarreled frozen custard machine capable of freezing both vanilla and

Logan Shaw, Wolfe Shaw, Michael Garey and Calvin Shaw, the team behind the new M & W Sweet Spot frozen treat shop on Longboat Key, showcase a variety of their offerings, including frozen custard sandwiches and drinks.

chocolate on the spot.

The shop hasn’t yet held a grand opening, but plenty of residents and visitors have been stopping in to sample the new desserts, the owners said.

Tyler’s Ice Cream was open at the location for 10 years, and Garey said he is looking forward to seeing customers experience everything the new brand has to offer.

“They brought a different concept, and it’s pretty cool because from Anna Maria Island to Lido Beach, we are the only custard shop,” Garey said.

In addition to frozen custard, the shop offers housemade soft serve and hard-scoop ice cream, frozen lemonade, floats, ice cream sandwiches and more.

Wolfe Shaw said the team has prioritized using natural fruits and cane sugar for its ingredients as much as possible so guests can enjoy a treat while still knowing what goes into it.

While everyone there shares a vision, they all do have different favorites. Garey says the white chocolate raspberry ice cream is unbeatable, while Calvin likes the cinnamon brown sugar and Wolfe prefers the straight-up frozen custard.

Dave Tesar, owner of Big Olaf Creamy on St. Armands Circle, dishes up one of the most popular hard-scoop ice cream flavors, “Gator Trail.” The ice cream shop is one of the longest standing in the area, at 44 years in business.

Photos by Dana Kampa

“We feel that the custard is superior,” Garey said when asked what long-term patrons can expect of the newly branded shop. “It’s more versatile and fresher than ever.”

Garey said that while he will still be involved in operations, he looks forward to seeing the Shaw brothers — both in their 20s — take the reins, especially considering they first met when he employed them at the Centre Shops.

Wolfe also looks forward to seeing his sons succeed, though he is happy to offer advice based on his career in food service with national brands.

M & W Sweet Spot is located 5350 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Suite 103.

Summer hours are from 4-10 p.m.

Mondays through Saturdays.

NATIONAL ICE CREAM MONTH

Those looking to stay cool this July can find frozen treats of all sorts on the barrier islands, including big chains and local stalwarts.

On St. Armands Circle, Big Olaf Creamy boasts one of the area’s longest operating records at 44 years and counting. The shop specializes in hard-scoop ice cream from the local Yoder’s Southern Creamery.

Owner Dave Tesar took over from the original owners from Michigan, Dennis and Nancy Yoder.

“They introduced the waffle cone to the state of Florida,” he said in the bustling shop last Saturday afternoon.

Tesar bought the shop in 1987 while the couple focused on a second shop on Siesta Key. He said the best part of being in the community since then has been seeing the happy faces coming through the shop, especially now that second generations are coming in to share the experience with their own children — reflected in the family photos that hang on the walls.

Because the ice cream shop is cash only, he said it has been able to keep prices low for returning visitors — most of whom prefer “Gator Trail,”

a mixture of vanilla ice cream, peanut butter cups, chocolate flakes and chocolate swirl.

Those who prefer a lighter, fruity frozen treat can also find sorbet and gelato shops on St. Armands, including at Le Macaron French Pastries.

Behind the counter, Kyla Balas explained both specialties are ideal for keeping cool while shopping around the Circle.

She said patrons have been loving the light, bright fruit flavors like raspberry and lemon this summer. On the fresh, but slightly more decadent gelato side, she said the Dubai chocolate flavor has been very popular, adding to the list of options people enjoying the beaches can seek this summer.

Sorbet, frozen custard and other frozen treats all have different characteristics that set them apart. n Frozen custard: Contains a higher percentage of egg yolk than ice cream; smaller ice crystals for a smooth, dense texture. n Hard-scoop ice cream: Contains less egg yolk and optional dairy products, including condensed, concentrated, evaporated, sweetened or skim milk, buttermilk, cream and more, with no less than 10% milk fat. n Soft serve ice cream: Typically contains more air for a softer texture than hard scoop; it also usually has less milk fat and is served at a lower temperature. n Gelato: With Italian roots, gelato is typically creamier than hard scoop ice cream but contains less butterfat; it is also usually served at a warmer temperature. n Sorbet: Typically nondairy with fruit puree as a base.

A scoop of raspberry sorbet with the signature French cookie from Le Macaron French Pastries on St. Armands Circle.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026

CAMPERS T MAKE A SPLASH Mote Marine Laboratory gives children hands-on experience at the City Island Adventure Camp.

Camper Dawson Smith shares his starfish find while dip netting for sea creatures.

o Amanda Shuman, camp program manager for Mote Marine Laboratory, “There is something in the ocean for everybody.”

It’s why Shuman believes it’s important for children, no matter their background or experience level, to explore local waters, which is the focus of Mote Marine Laboratory City Island Adventure Camp and the Mote Science Education Aquarium STEM Camp this summer.

It’s the first year Mote is providing summer camps at both locations. The City Island Adventure Camp divides campers into three different age groups: Tidal Tykes ages 6-7, Aqua Kids ages 8-10 and Sea Sleuths ages 11-13. Each group offers different experiences, activities and studies.

Adventure Camp is an outdoors camp that allows campers to explore the Sarasota Bay and learn about the hidden critters that help the ecosystem.

For many children, the marine side of science isn’t predominantly covered in the classroom, even if it’s in their back yard, Shuman said.

“They’re just trying to get those basic concepts down,” she said. “In camp, we have a lot more freedom to move with the kids’ curiosity and to keep going with their train of thought and to follow their passions.”

On July 9, the Aqua Kids learned to kayak and use dip nets for critters. From shrimp, to starfish, crabs and various fish, campers shouted whenever they found

Poppy Otte paddles through the water while Mote Education Specialist Morgan Swartz helps.

something new, rushing to find out what kind of species it was or throwing out guesses.

Campers delivered their catch to different bins of water for later identification, which got so full they were told to put some sea critters back early. Later, all the animals were released.

This summer is the first year the Aqua Kids could learn how to kayak and paddle through the bay.

The campers are accompanied by camp counselors, educators, volunteers and interns to ensure they have a fun and safe experience.

“I think it’s always fun watching all of the rest of the summer staff, summer counselors and interns get excited by what the kids find themselves,” said Morgan Swartz, Mote education specialist. “Also, because it does kind of show how unique of an environment we are in.”

Even if families can’t make the trip to Mote Marine Laboratory on Ken Thompson Parkway, they can still get an engaging handson experience at the Mote SEA STEM Camp. The STEM Camp has a similar division of age groups, except with the titles Bubble Crew, Wave Riders and Ocean Allies.

In the Ocean Allies group, campers are developing their own research stations with the leading prompt of “Where do you think Mote should research next in the world?” Campers delve into concepts of budgeting, ecosystems and materials and are even learning how to incorporate technology

Photos by Carlin Gillen

Campers Dawson Smith and Davice Spicer are amazed by their findings while dip netting.

into marine research.

Mote SEA also provides a High School Camp Program where campers can understand the different careers in the marine sciences field.

Campers can tour labs, create their own STEM projects and meet researchers.

“Kids and people in general don’t care as much about what they don’t know about,” said Amber Smalley, Mote marketing and public relations manager. “So having them come here and learn this hands on and see it, experience it, touch it, feel it and learn all about this, helps inspire them to want to help protect it and enter in this field.”

Campers Cameron Cox and Coco Olson were all smiles while dip netting for sea critters.

— CARLIN GILLEN

Intern Nick Kays helps camper Teagan Mckee identify her findings.

6140 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228 941 383 4738

WORSHIP

Someone Needs Your Smile

An Ecumenical Church that Welcomes all God’s People Founded in 1956

Safe Happy Hopeful Worship Sunday 10 a.m.

directory

The Lord’s Warehouse summer hours: Monday, Wednesday, Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

6140 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FLSaturday 34228 (941)-383-4738.

The Lord’s Warehouse is open Monday, Wednesday, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

6140 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228 941-383-4738

St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church

Looking for a Spiritual Home?

You are welcome at All Angels whether it is for a day, a season, or a lifetime... you are welcome here.

Would like to Welcome & Invite You, Your Family Members & Friends to Celebrate Mass with Our Parish Community MASS SCHEDULE Saturday: 4:00 PM Sunday: 8:30 AM, and 10:30 AM Daily Mass at 9:00 AM; Rosary at 8:30 AM Monday - Friday 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive Chaplet of Divine Mercy daily following Mass.

Worship Service Sunday 10 a.m.

Service is live streamed at AllAngelsLBK.org

A Generous & Joyful Community

Rev. Robert Dziedziak, Pastor

You are invited to join us in worship, song & friendship at Shabbat services every Sharing Values, Friendship, and Faith Friday evening at 5:30 pm and Saturdays at 10 am.

Dr. Julia Wharff Piermont, Pastor

Join Us For Worship!

Sunday, 10:00 AM

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

Questions? Email us at info@longboatkeytemple.org 464672-1

Watch live or livestream: www.christchurchof lbk.org (follow YouTube link) 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive • 941.383.8833 • www.christchurchoflbk.org

Longboat Key, FL 34228 941-383-1255 • www.stmarylbk.org

567 Bay Isles Rd, Longboat Key, FL

941-383-3428

longboatkeytemple.org

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Growing in Jesus’ Name

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AllAngelsLBK.org

563 Bay Isles Rd • 941-383-8161

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6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key Florida 34228 941-383-6491 Live Stream available www.longboatislandchapel.org

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026

Mahjong madness

Longboat Rotarians go platinum DANA KAMPA STAFF WRITER

L

Beginners and pros are welcome at this debut game weekend.

DANA KAMPA STAFF WRITER

A

brand-new event for those who love games of strategy and socialization is coming to Longboat Key. Coordinator Renee Fannin and volunteers at The Paradise Center are organizing a two-day mahjong event on Friday, July 24 and Saturday, July 25.

She explained this debut game day is designed to entertain experienced mahjong players, as well as community members interested in learning how to play it.

“I got certified as a mentor with Oh My Mahjong so I could lead lessons,” she said. “I really wanted to do it out of a lifelong love of learning and teaching. It’s always fun exposing people to new things.”

Mahjong is a typically four-person game where players match up patterned tiles for a winning hand.

Fannin, whom many will recognize from local bingo tournaments, said this weekend is designed to offer some brain-training entertainment for year-round residents and summer visitors. It will also provide a fundraising boost to the center in the off-season.

She said she was inspired to launch the new event based on the resurging popularity of mahjong in the community and beyond. This game of strategy, which originated in China, became more accessible worldwide through early computer games. More recently, it was spotlighted in popular media, featuring in a pivotal plot point of the film “Crazy Rich Asians.”

“For a while there, it did feel really exclusive, and it was hard for people

File image

Carol Peschel and Marilyn Katzmark play a round of mahjong at The Paradise Center. The center is launching a two-day game event the last weekend of July.

to get into lessons, even when they did want to learn how to play,” she said. “We really just wanted to make it more accessible for everybody.

You are welcome. You don’t need to know how to play — we’ll teach you.”

As the organizer, she emphasized the weekend is beginner-friendly and great for those seeking friendly competition.

“It really came about as a marriage of my love of mahjong and looking at our fundraising opportunities for the Paradise Center, something people would find fun and different,” she said. “People can support the center, but also have a good time.”

Registration includes full access to the two-day meetup, along with dinner, snacks and beverages on Friday, July 24, and a light breakfast, snacks, lunch and beverages on Saturday, July 25.

Attendees can also win door prizes and raffles. Fannin said event planners are still welcoming prize contributions.

“We’re already looking to do it again,” she said. “This is hopefully just the first annual event.”

HOW TO REGISTER Participants in The Paradise Center’s debut mahjong weekend can register online at TheParadiseCenter.org under the “First Fundraising Mah Jongg Weekend” tab or at the office at 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Tickets are $175 per person and include full access and meals. Check-in starts at 2 p.m. Friday, July 24, with the first matches starting at 3 p.m. Paradise Center team members will serve a freshly prepared dinner around 5 p.m., and games will continue afterward.

The event continues from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, July 25. Tickets also include access to the final celebration event and “boozy bingo” at Cedars East Tennis Club, 645 Cedars Court.

ocal Rotarians are celebrating a new district-level recognition of their broad efforts to improve the Longboat Key community.

Rotary District 6960 bestowed the prestigious platinum Governor’s Award to the Rotary Club of Longboat Key at the most recent district conference in June.

This award takes into account six criteria central to the Rotary’s core mission of service above self. These measures include maintaining membership, participating in unique service events, sponsoring youth leaders and attending major district functions, among others.

Terri Driver, president of the local chapter, said she initially wasn’t sure the club would meet all these standards. But at the suggestion of district leaders, Longboat’s club applied and brought home the award.

Driver, reflecting on what criteria she is perhaps most proud of meeting this year, said the club’s focus on community service projects is worth noting, from Adopt-A-Highway cleanups to food packing events.

“That’s true every year,” she said of the members’ volunteerism. “I feel really good about our projects.

Sometimes, even if we only get two or three people together, that’s all it takes. We can do amazing things that ripple through the community.”

She pointed to the club’s collaboration with the town of Longboat Key to install monofilament-recycling receptacles at Overlook Park as one of her personal favorite projects from the past year.

This is the first time Longboat Key’s organization has earned a Governor’s Award with the updated criteria. Fellow award winners include chapters from Bonita Springs, Venice-Nokomis, Sanibel-Captiva and Fort Myers South.

Sue McConnell, district governorelect for 2028-29, said in an email she and District Governor 2025-26 Gerard Sola recently worked togeth-

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The Governor’s Award recognizes the work of the Rotary Club of Longboat Key on community projects, such as the installation of monofilament-recycling receptacles at local parks.

FOR MORE DETAILS President Terri Driver encourages anyone interested in learning more about the Rotary Club of Longboat Key to check out one of the monthly meetings, where featured guests speak on issues affecting the community. Everyone is welcome to join the upcoming Adopt-A-Highway cleanup at 7:30 a.m. July 25 at the meeting point near Chart House.

Visit LongboatKeyRotary.org for the full calendar and more information.

er to refine the measuring stick for this award.

“This year, approximately half of the clubs in the district earned the Governor’s Award,” she wrote. “Our goal is for the criteria to be both meaningful and attainable — challenging enough to encourage growth while remaining achievable for every club.”

She applauded the Longboat Key chapter for its great work this year.

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Celebrating 50 YEARS of Living and Working on Longboat Key Cathy C. Meldahl, P.A. Your Longboat Key Community Realtor • Consistent top producer on Longboat Key • In-depth knowledge of the real estate market • Active in our community with Longbeach Village Association Longboat Key Historical Society Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce Longboat Key Garden Club

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SOUND BATH 2-3 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Embrace the sounds of crystal and Tibetan bowls, chimes, gongs and other instruments at this immersive session.

Free, but an RSVP is appreciated.

Call 941-383-6493 or email RSVP@ TheParadiseCenter.org.

SATURDAY, JULY 18

SUNDAY, JULY 19

CONGRATULATIONS, SCHOLARS 11:15 a.m. at Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Community members can help celebrate the academic achievements of the chapel’s college scholarship recipients this year. Violinist and repeat scholarship winner Danae Tran will play during the regular service, and fellow recipients will be at a reception at Shook Fellowship Hall.

— ALL ARE WELCOME — BRING FRIENDS, FAMILY, AND NEIGHBORS!

TUESDAY, JULY 21

TURTLE PATROL UPDATE 4:30 p.m. at All Angels Episcopal Church, 563 Bay Isles Road. Learn about a day in the life of a turtle patroller and see the Paul Harris Awards presentation at the Rotary Club of Longboat Key meeting. Visit LongboatKeyRotary.org.

SATURDAY, JULY 25

ROTARY ADOPT-A-HIGHWAY 7:30 a.m. at southern pickup point near Chart House, 201 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Join the Rotary Club of Longboat Key for a volunteer community cleanup. Visit LongboatKeyRotary.org.

SUMMER SUMMER Concert ConcertSeries Series Concert Series

RECURRING EVENTS

EVERY THIRD FRIDAY JUNE - AUGUST | 4 – 7 PM

MONDAYS AND THURSDAYS

LONGBOAT LIBRARY 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 555 Bay Isles Road.

Open to peruse a variety of books.

Call 941-383-2011.

Join us all summer long for a vibrant, family-friendly concert series hosted by HarborChase! Enjoy live performances, artisan vendors, and farm-to-table summer cuisine prepared by our talented chefs!

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PUBLIC TURTLE WALK 6:45 a.m. at Longboat Key Beach Access, 4795 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Join wildlife experts at the Longboat Key Turtle Watch’s guided public turtle walk. Participants must be able to walk for about a mile in the sand.

Comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended. No reservation required. Visit LBKTurtleWatch. com.

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STRINGS CON BRIO 7 p.m. at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. Tickets are $20 per person. Call 941-677-3291 or visit StringsConBrio.org.

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POP-UP LIBRARY 10 a.m. at the Town Center Green, 600 Bay Isles Road. The Sarasota County Pop-Up Library hosts services on the first and third Tuesdays of each month, with storytime beginning at 10:30 a.m. and other services available from 10-11:30 a.m.

QIGONG 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Experienced instructor Sandi Love leads this class on ancient healing arts designed to improve mental and physical well-being through gentle movement. Cost is $20 for drop-ins or a one class pass. Call 941-3836493 or visit TheParadiseCenter.org.

WEDNESDAYS

TAI CHI 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Certified instructor Reuben Fernandez leads this fitness class with easy-to-follow exercises and breathing techniques.

Cost is $20. Call 941-383-6493 or visit TheParadiseCenter.org.

COMMUNITY BINGO 2-4 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Caller Renee Fannin runs the show for this fun and lively game. Cards are $1 each; $2 for the final round. Call 941-383-6493 or visit TheParadiseCenter.org.

IYENGAR YOGA 11:15 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Certified instructor Deborah DiCarlo focuses on alignment, precision, timing and sequencing in this class designed for all ages. Class is on the second floor, accessible via stairs only. Cost is $20 for drop-ins or a one class pass. Call 941-3836493 or visit TheParadiseCenter.org.

THURSDAYS AND FRIDAYS

TUESDAYS

RUN CLUB 7 a.m. at Sips coffee shop, 6830 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Join this community running club for a morning jog at your own pace. The group is free and open to the public, and registration is not required.

ROTARY CLUB 5 p.m. at All Angels Episcopal Church, 563 Bay Isles Road. The Rotary Club of Longboat Key typically meets the first and third Tuesday of the month to hear from community guest speakers and plan upcoming events. Visit LongboatKeyRotary.org to learn more, or contact President Terri Driver at TDriver1@comcast. net or 703-517-8925.

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CLASSERN QUARTET 7 p.m. at St. Armands Key Lutheran Church, 40 N. Adams Drive.

The Midsummer Night Music Festival five-show series begins with a performance by Classern Quartet titled “America: Colony to Contemporary.” Tickets are available for in-person viewing and online streaming. Doors open at 6 p.m.

Visit SAKLC.com for the full show schedule.

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BRIDGE CLUB 1 p.m. at the Bayfront Park Recreation Center, 4052 Gulf of Mexico Drive. This American Contract Bridge League-certified group meets twice weekly. Reservations are required. Contact Patty Mayer at 262-215-2566 or PattySarasota33@ gmail.com.

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026

Training in tai chi

IF YOU GO

TAI CHI CLASSES When: Noon to 1 p.m. Mondays and 10-11 a.m. Wednesdays Where: The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive Cost: Classes are $20 for dropins or a one-class pass.

Info: Visit TheParadiseCenter. org for more information.

Longtime Paradise Center instructor extols its health and social benefits.

“First of all, everybody in this class has been in your shoes. They’ve all had a first class and their doubts and concerns and insecurities you may be experiencing right now. But that goes away the more you practice. This is an art that requires repetition, and the more you do it, the better you get.”

The hours attendees put into their studies became apparent as they moved into each step before Fernandez could finish giving instructions.

He first learned the art from tai chi Master Max Yan Gaofei, who learned from Grand Master Chen Quanzhong, a 19th-generation grand master. Quanzhong died last year at the age of 100.

While living in Brooklyn in his 50s, Fernandez discovered an interest in judo. However, he explained that the more intensely physical martial art can become taxing over time. So, he turned to tai chi, which has its roots in martial arts and incorporates carefully controlled punches, kicks and defensive blocks. It uniquely places strong emphasis on the gradual flow between poses.

“It’s different from qigong,” he said, explaining how both focus on unblocking energy channels in the body, but differ in specific moves.

“Qigong is a beautiful art that utilizes the same principles,” he continued. “The variations that we do are intended to open up the channels and increase the flow of chi in your body.”

He specializes in the Chen style of tai chi, which focuses on deliberate, controlled movements. Besides intending to open up energy channels in the body, the exercises help strengthen stabilizing muscles, benefiting long-term fitness.

DANA KAMPA STAFF WRITER

E

ach of Reuben Fernandez’s tai chi classes starts with bows exchanged among him and his students.

“This is an art with its roots in China, and it is part of the protocol to show respect for one another,” he said at the start of the morning class at The Paradise Center on Wednesday, July 8.

With that, the group started its routine deep-breathing exercises and transitioned into the flow of well-remembered poses like “White Crane Spreads Wings.”

Fernandez, 76, has been teaching classes at the Longboat Key community center for half a decade, and said it has been a privilege to continue working with some of the same students from the beginning.

“I tell people when they first come here not to be nervous,” he said.

John Sackler, a longtime attendee of Reuben Fernandez’s tai chi classes on Longboat Key, demonstrates his balance skills in a high-step exercise.

Reuben Fernandez leads tai chi classes on Mondays and Wednesdays at The Paradise Center.

Photos by Dana Kampa

Practicing new motions also has the potential to boost neuroplasticity, as students are challenged to move their bodies in a different way than they normally do, all while spending valuable social time with friends over a shared passion, he explained.

He still vividly remembers standing transfixed outside a tai chi studio in Hollywood, Florida, for an hour.

“It took me a few months to walk into the store,” he said. “I went to one class, and I never missed one after that.”

From then on, he dove into learning all about it to become an instructor.

He moved to the Sarasota area around 2019, upon the insistence of a fellow alum of West Virginia University, while recovering from a stroke he experienced in 2016. Tai chi students may recognize him from Midtown Plaza’s Elite Medical Spa of Sarasota, now called Conviva Primary Care.

He then expanded to Longboat Key at The Paradise Center.

“These folks really appreciate what you’re bringing to them,” he said of the community.

John Sackler is one of the regular attendees, and he said tai chi

has been tremendously helpful in improving muscle tone and flexibility, enabling him to touch his toes for the first time.

To anyone who would like to try it out but, like Fernandez, may be somewhat hesitant to step through the door, he encourages them to take the plunge.

Tai chi students, including Fran Van Zandt, follow along with Reuben Fernandez’s instructions.

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22

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026

Le Gardenia Bleu says thank you The founders of the flower and gift shop announced this month the shop had closed.

DANA KAMPA STAFF WRITER

L

e Gardenia Bleu had a memorable start on Longboat Key, opening just as hurricanes Helene and Milton completely changed the landscape of the island’s business community.

Fortunately, the shop escaped any significant physical damage, and owners Jon Mongeau and Lita and John Brannan did what they could to help their neighbors while juggling the tasks that come with opening a new, independent shop.

The owners announced earlier this month that they, with extensive consideration, made the decision to close the the flower and gift shop.

John Brannan said in an interview the team will forever treasure the experience and the lasting friendships they gained over the past year and a half.

The trio opened the shop with the Brannans offering their business savvy and Mongeau bringing his extensive knowledge of the floral business to the table.

Mongeau has worked in the flower business for about four decades and crafted arrangements for every type of gathering under the sun.

John said one of the best parts of getting to run the shop was working directly with community members, helping create the ambiance for meaningful events in their lives.

The shop’s creations were there for birthdays, anniversaries, galas and countless other events.

They were glad to offer high-quality, on-island florals for those special moments.

INDEPENDENT OPERATION

As an independent local business,

Le Gardenia Bleu had the freedom to craft its own brand and truly become part of the Longboat Key community, John said. That also made it challenging in some ways, as the small team worked to navigate the ebb and flow of the seasons, learning something new every day in the first year of operation.

Mongeau often arose early to peruse flower selections and find creative inspiration. John said it was always a balancing act of having sufficient stock of a naturally delicate product without overstocking.

John said he certainly has more experience with accounting than florals, but he and Lita learned quite a bit about both sides of the business when Mongeau needed to take time to focus on his health.

The shop employed an assistant, but otherwise, the three owners put in the hours to run the shop.

They worked beyond the walls of their shop, though. The owners participated in community-building initiatives, like the town of Longboat Key’s scavenger hunt. Eagle-eyed scouters had to find and take a photo with the shop’s mermaid sculpture.

“We were glad to work with the Longboat Key Garden Club, too,” he said, remembering the arrangement workshops Mongeau led. “It’s a great organization of really nice people, and it’s well thought out.”

John said he is proud of how involved they became in the social network since opening. While it was good for building brand recognition, he said they also enjoyed getting to genuinely connect with the people who make Longboat Key so special.

Eventually, the Brannans recognized continuing to operate under such significant time demands wasn’t sustainable in the long term.

Those constraints were compounded by the financial effects of people cutting back on spending while they rebuilt from the hurricanes.

John said the team considered navigating the rest of the offseason,

SPACE AVAILABLE

John Brannan said the space at 5610 Gulf of Mexico Drive is available for lease. Email JohnBrannanDC@gmail.com to inquire.

Dana Kampa

Le Gardenia Bleu featured works by local artists, home decor, custom floral arrangements and more.

but decided the time they wanted to spend together was more valuable.

He said the shop would like to offer heartfelt thanks to the community for its robust support. The owners never suspected they would receive the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce’s “Emerging Business Award” last year and all the other acts of kindness their patrons showed.

Chamber President and CEO Kim Verreault wrote in response to a question about the shop’s impact on the community that “Le Gardenia Bleu brought something truly special to our community. John and Lita, along with floral designer Jon, created more than a flower and gift shop — they created a place where artistry and personal service came together.”

“Their artistry was evident in every stunning floral arrangement they designed and every carefully curated gift they selected,” she continued. “In a remarkably short time, they formed meaningful connections through their exceptional service and genuine care for their customers and our community.”

She said the store will be missed and wished the trio the best in future endeavors.

File image

John said, as a local business owner, he was glad to help support talented local artists and collaborate with on-island shops and resorts.

After they enjoy some upcoming travel plans to reconnect with friends, the Brannans look forward to spending time with their cherished dog and continuing to remain engaged Longboat Key residents.

John has been coming to the island since 1965 and has been pleased to be a full-time resident for years.

He and Lita will celebrate their 11th wedding anniversary in November.

Jon Mongeau and Lita and John Brannan accept the award for Emerging Business of the Year on Oct. 23 at the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce 2025 awards banquet at Lido Beach Resort. After the shop’s recent closure announcement, John Brannan explained their team is proud of everything it accomplished, but knew this was a tough decision they had to make.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026

23

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462385-1

story that resonates — Dedic represents a new archetype in luxury real estate: the

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026

COMING SOON

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162 EMERSON DRIVE

“The sky is the daily bread of the eyes.”

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Compass is a licensed real estate broker. All material is intended for Informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice.

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026

JUNE 29-JULY 3

ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR

S

ea Breeze BK LLC sold the home at 575 S. Spoonbill Drive to Rex and Kathleen Mack, of Sarasota, for $4.2 million.

Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, four-and-ahalf baths, a pool and 3,930 square feet of living area.

REAL ESTATE

Bird Key home tops week’s sales at $4.2 million

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

25

COUNTRY CLUB SHORES

Stephen Russell and Melanie Russell, trustees, of Miami, sold the home at 550 Yardarm Lane to Mehran Hosseini and Jasmin Kohan, trustees, of Sherman Oaks, California, for $3.5 million. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three-and-ahalf baths, a pool and 3,991 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.6 million in 2008.

L’AMBIANCE AT LONGBOAT KEY CLUB

Tina Small, trustee, of Bethesda, Maryland, sold the Unit J-704 condominium at 435 L’Ambiance Drive to Fadi Chartouni and Mary Terri Chartouni, of Demarest, New Jersey, for $2,725,000. Built in 1994, it has two bedrooms, two-and-two-half baths and 2,634 square feet of living area. It sold for $755,000 in 1994.

BIRD KEY

Steven Horton and Ann Russell Horton, of Cashiers, North Carolina, sold their home at 381 Bobwhite Drive to Danny Richard Montgomery, of Gassville, Arkansas, for $2,185,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and 3,774 square feet of living area. It sold for $995,000 in 2011.

INN ON THE BEACH

David and Rhona Bakst sold their Unit 3703 condominium at 230 Sands Point Road to Liberty 115 LLC for $1,875,000. Built in 1982, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,394 square feet of living area. It sold for $246,200 in 1982.

SANCTUARY AT LONGBOAT KEY CLUB

Edmondo Giacomelli and Dianne Lezon sold their Unit B-506 condominium at 545 Sanctuary Drive to KPM Holdings LLC for $1,725,000.

Built in 1991, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,375 square feet of living area. It sold for $720,000 in 2011.

LIDO

Dana Kampa

The home at 575 S. Spoonbill Drive sold for $4.2 million. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, four-and-a-half baths, a pool and 3,930 square feet of living area.

don Denton, of Prospect, Kentucky, for $1.7 million. Built in 1957, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,984 square feet of living area.

It sold for $400,000 in 1995.

THE PROMENADE

Peter and Mary Ohara, of Babylon, New York, sold their Unit 609 condominium at 1211 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Susan Corinne Sicignano, of Clarence Center, New York, for $1,425,000. Built in 1985, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,827 square feet of living area. It sold for $890,000 in 2020.

LONGBEACH ON LONGBOAT KEY

Purchasing Fund 2024-1 LLC sold the home at 580 Russell St. to Leighton Todd Allenby and Michele De Luce, of Osprey, for $914,800.

Built in 1954, it has five bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 2,716 square feet of living area. It sold for $1 million in January.

BAYPORT BEACH AND TENNIS CLUB

Ariel Serrano and Wilmian Hernandez, of North Port, sold their Unit 706 condominium at 706 Bayport Way to Sharon Bender, trustee, of Westbrook, Connecticut, for $700,000. Built in 1980, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,552 square feet of living area. It sold for $400,000 in 2020.

SPANISH MAIN YACHT CLUB

Eleanor Hyland, of Sarasota, sold her Unit 53 condominium at 925 Spanish Drive N. to Curtis and Christine Geyer, of Longboat Key, for $695,000. Built in 1968, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,449 square feet of living area. It sold for $338,000 in 2013.

SEAGRAPE INN

to Robert Patterson Henry and Sherry Burnette Henry, of Sparta, Georgia, for $675,000. Built in 1983, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 961 square feet of living area. It sold for $440,000 in 2004.

SEAPLACE

Sally Cutler, of Bedford, New York, sold the Unit G4-206-G condominium at 1975 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Matthew Anastas and Erin Anastas, trustees, of Evergreen, Colorado, for $430,000. Built in 1977, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,073 square feet of living area. It sold for $262,000 in 2001.

ONLINE See more transactions

Beth DeAtley, trustee, of Tiburon, California, sold the Unit 4 condominium at 5125 Gulf of Mexico Drive

at YourObserver.com.

WESTCHESTER CONDOMINIUM APARTMENTS

Beth Uffner, trustee, sold the Unit 302 condominium at 4835 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Raymond Gerard Boyle and Kelly Due Boyle, of Longboat Key, for $770,000. Built in 1970, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 1,393 square feet of living area.

It sold for $650,000 in 2015.

FAIRWAY BAY

Howard Naval, trustee, of Centerport, New York, sold the Unit 536 condominium at 2110 Harbourside Drive to Craig and Patricia Van Roekens, of Poughkeepsie, New York, for $725,000. Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,031 square feet of living area. It sold for $837,500 in 2015.

Anytime.

Anywhere.

Observer.

Water Dragon LLC sold the home at 1186 Westway Drive to Adam Bran-

TOP BUILDING PERMITS These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of July 3-9 in order of dollar amounts.

LONGBOAT KEY Permit

Applicant

Amount

3543 Mistletoe Lane

Res. Alteration

Andrew Chennault

$410,700

7110 Longboat Drive E.

Res. Alteration

Warren Davie

$248,216

2159 Harbour Oaks Drive

Comm. Alteration

Benjamin DePrenger $244,150

542 Ranger Lane

Swimming Pool/Spa

Travis Yoder

$140,562

2550 Harbourside Drive #322

Comm. Alteration

Eric Wachsman

$102,023

1955 Gulf of Mexico Drive #101 Comm. Alteration

Bruce Smith

$96,239

1975 Gulf of Mexico Drive #102 Comm. Alteration

Bruce Smith

$91,008

Res. Dock/Seawall/Lift George Ellis

$90,000

5080 Gulf of Mexico Drive

1281 Gulf of Mexico Drive #703 Comm. Alteration

Jan Otting

2010 Harbourside Drive #2003 Comm. Alteration

Christopher Coleman $67,840

3310 Bayou Road

Swimming Pool/Spa

Jeff Zwerin

531 Wedge Lane

Res. Roof

Alvin Singleton

$50,370

Lance Frickey

$50,000

1920 Harbourside Drive #1002 Comm. Alteration

$72,000 $59,920

513 Bayport Way

Comm. Windows/Doors Joe Long

$46,655

692 El Centro

Comm. Windows/Doors Austin Allen

$33,602

717 Spanish Drive

Comm. Windows/Doors Austin Allen

$25,960

435 L’Ambiance Drive #K305

Comm. A/C Changeout Gregory Johnson

$22,653

4995 Gulf of Mexico Drive #500 Comm. A/C Changeout Jason Hescock

$14,749

100 Sands Point Road #304

Comm. A/C Changeout Todd Thompson

$14,720

2225 Harbourside Drive #701

Comm. Windows/Doors John Anderson Jr.

$12,292

1000 Longboat Club Road #1103 Electrical Alt. Reno.

Robert Friedman

$11,179

3240 Gulf of Mexico Drive #B103 Comm. A/C Changeout Todd Thompson

$10,846

6750 Gulf of Mexico Drive #169 Comm. A/C Changeout Todd Thompson

$10,565

Source: Town of Longboat Key

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Address

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026

Renée Dedio Preininger 941.400.4235

reneeworks4u@gmail.com

@sarasota_trust_realty sarasotatrustrealty.com Licensed Broker Associate

3606 Fair Oaks Place, Lane Longboat Key, FL

$4,999,000 3,842 sq. ft. under air, 4,639 total sq. ft., 5 beds, 3 baths, 2 car garage

A4696960

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A4680108

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A4684898

6922 Stanhope Place, University Park, FL

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A4694394

$2,199,000 3,459 sq. ft. under air, 5,601 total sq. ft., 3 beds, 3 baths, 12 car garage

$1,895,000 3,093sq. ft. under air, 4,055 total sq. ft., 4 beds, 3 baths, 2 car garage

465 E Royal Flamingo Drive, Sarasota, FL $4,850,000 2,846 sq. ft. under air, 4,969 total sq. ft., 4 beds, 4 baths, 2 car garage

7094 Longboat Drive E, Longboat Key, FL

$3,249,000

Waterfront Lot - 11,252 Sq. Ft.

$2,045,000 7214 Marlow Place, University Park, FL 3,251 sq. ft. under air, 4,375 total sq. ft., 4 beds, 3 baths, 2 car garage

6500 Gulfside Road, Longboat Key, FL

$1,449,000

Gulf Waterside Lot - 10,598 Sq. Ft. 465435-1

26

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27

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026

SUNRISE / SUNSET Sunrise Sunset

FRIDAY, JULY 17 High: 88 Low: 79 Chance of rain: 37%

Thursday, July 16

6:45a

8:27p

Friday, July 17

6:46a

8:26p

Saturday, July 18

6:46a

8:26p

Sunday, July 19

6:47a

8:26p

SATURDAY, JULY 18

Monday, July 20

6:47a

8:25p

High: 87 Low: 80 Chance of rain: 48%

Tuesday, July 21

6:48a

8:25p

Wednesday, July 22

6:48a

8:24p

WEATHER

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

FORECAST

MOON PHASES SUNDAY, JULY 19 High: 87 Low: 80 Chance of rain: 74%

July 21 First

July 29 Full

Aug. 5 Last

Aug. 12 New

TIDES Highs Lows Agnes Thambynayagam took this photo of a pair of sailboats at sunset from the Players Club on Longboat Key.

Thursday, July 16

4:08a

1:39p

7:47a

9:57p

Friday, July 17

4:16a

2:36p

8:57a

10:31p

Saturday, July 18

4:29a

3:34p

10:04a

11:03p

Sunday, July 19

4:47a

4:36p

11:13a

11:32p

Monday, July 20

5:12a

5:46p

—

12:26p

Tuesday, July 21

5:44a

7:29p

—

1:45p

Wednesday, July 22

6:22a

—

12:20a

3:07p

Submit your photos at YourObserver.com/Contests. All submissions will be entered in the 2026-27 Weather and Nature photo contest. In February 2027, you will vote for your favorite photo, and the submission with the most votes will win a $500 gift card.

We have all of your luxury flooring needs carpet | hardwood | tile | stone | pavers | and more Sarasota 941.355.8437 | Bradenton 941.748.4679 | Venice 941.493.7441 | manasotaonline.com

Daily crossword puzzles available at YourObserver.com/crossword

By Luis Campos

33 ___-mo 34 Analogous (to) 1 Word after “photo” or 36 High point “special” 38 Georgia airport code 4 Powder applied after 39 Nourish bathing 8 Biblical boat boarded by 40 On fire ... or, like, totally fire beasts 41 Fighting Tigers of the 11 Musical symbol NCAA 15 Little lie 44 Word before “Vegas” or 18 Letter before chi “Culturistas” 19 Love, in Lima 45 Enjoy a haiku 20 Delivery vehicle 47 Stomach muscles 21 Figure skater’s jump 48 Villainous characters 22 “I think,” in a text in white coats, or a hint to 23 Vase on a mantel 24 Bittersweet feelings, e.g., 15-Down 52 Pint glass drink or a hint to 3-Down 53 Clothed like a judge 27 Careless 55 Alternatives to corks 28 Drooped 56 Is sporting 30 Sound unit 58 Prods 31 Conventionally proper

59 Misfortunes 60 Heavily promote 61 Some golf tournaments 62 Creole vegetable 63 Name that’s an anagram of “Bert” 64 Breezes through, like a test 65 Indigenous people of Canada 66 Nine-digit ID 69 Battle over a Wikipedia page 71 Bud 73 Language in Sarajevo 77 More crafty 78 Certain boss 82 Emotionally rattles 84 Called the shots 85 Attractive 86 Lasting mark

87 Shoe brand named after the Latin word for “bird” 89 Prop for Dr. Facilier or Mr. Monopoly 90 Like long odds 91 With it, in old jazz slang 92 Household like the one in “The Brady Bunch,” or a hint to 75-Down 97 Arid 98 Calendar square 100 Old West bars 101 _nited _ress _nternational 103 Snake 107 Soccer great Lionel 108 Push down, like a button 112 Become threadbare 113 Major time span 115 U.S. soldiers 116 Legume in a pod

“RN NIYZIMZ EWI QXRKZU TQ AIQ RMU CZRXXK ORCZU RLITA WZC OCRHA, S CZRXXK ERMAZU AI XZRCM AI LZ R FIRX NOICZC.”

YSR WRYY

“JIP ZKYBZ S MHZ MASJSYB DPXHEP ...

JIPAHGR WKA EP. S MKLUN ... PCGAPZZ HUU KW ER WPPUSYBZ JIAKLBI JIPZP ZKYBZ.”

DPYZKY DKKYP

“P’I CGGE BL HVAYGZ. YG RVC V UFFZ BVE, VEI P RVATYGI YPB IF VCAFEPCYPEO AYPEOC ... YG EGXGZ QFCA YPC IPOEPAL.” CPIEGL UFPAPGZ Puzzle Three Clue: V equals A

©2026 Universal Uclick

117 “Yikes!”

46 Crowded 118 “Cogito, ___ sum” 48 OB-GYNs, e.g.

119 Safari sights, or a hint to 49 Sets of beliefs 79-Down 50 Plaything with wheels 122 Indian bread 51 HBO rival, for short 123 Creature in a pride 54 He played Santa in “Elf” 124 Departing 57 Hard HS course 125 Sibling such as Mr. 67 Paul McCartney’s title Benedict 68 Like warships 126 Eye part 70 20-20 score, e.g.

127 Bias 71 Discussion group 128 Rip to bits 72 “Go on ...?”

73 Blackberry plant 129 Nothing but 74 First word in a fairy tale or “The Raven” DOWN 75 Flower named after a leg1 Big work of art endary beast (grandpa, son) 2 Travel guide with greet76 “Scream” star Campbell ings 78 ___-pedi 3 Where you might meet your match? (anger, bliss) 79 “Cactus Flower” actress (dingo, whale) 4 Domesticate 5 “Star Wars” queen Padme 80 Arab bigwig 81 “Ratatouille” rat 6 “Nova” salmon 83 Breaks religious com7 Financial rating mandments 8 Opposite of “sans” 9 Malek who played Freddie 85 Black Forest meats 88 “Big Daddy” actor Mercury Sandler 10 Door opener 89 “Pretty please?”

11 Pedicurist’s tool 92 “Ciao!”

12 Kitchenware brand 93 Chic 13 Most tightly wound 94 Giving medicine to 14 Besides that 95 Dig discoveries 15 Movie promo (Fermi, 96 “Uh-huh” Tesla) 99 Kitchen garments 16 “No company for me” 102 “Now!” 17 Cube-shaped 103 “Neato!”

25 Cubby hole?

104 Like a journey through 26 Oolong or Darjeeling the catacombs at night 29 Pantheon member 105 “Red-spotted” sala32 Body part you might manders “lend” 35 Children’s programming 106 Courtroom event block that moved to The CW 108 Dig (into) 109 Alleviated 37 Throngs 110 Slimy, creeping creature 39 North Dakota’s largest 111 Jazz musician Rollins city 41 “Stay motionless for your 114 ___-Seltzer 116 Surname hidden in MRI” “MPAA rating” 42 Do some darning 43 Defrosted, with or with- 120 Cacophony 121 Ho-hum out its first two letters

Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present.

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

Puzzle Two Clue: S equals I

DANCING PARTNERS by Paul Coulter, edited by Jared Goudsmit

ACROSS

celebrity cipher

Puzzle Two Clue: M equals N

crossword

Flooring Made for Your Family

457539-1

at MANASOTA FLOORING INC

sudoku Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.

©2026 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

07-16-26

Made for where you live. Here!

Homes for Sale

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Baby blue 43467 Mileage. $18500 (941)350-6544

Condos/Apts. for Rent FLOAT YOUR BOAT in Sarasota Bay from your beautiful Marina Suite, one of 20 waterfront units at Condo on the Bay (888 Blvd of the Arts) adjacent to The Bay Park and downtown Sarasota.

3BR/3.5BA, furnished, 2/car garage, 3 balconies, 24/hr security, 2 pools, tennis and fitness rooms. Large boat dock included. Annual $7,500/mo plus utilities. NP, NS. Immediate availability pending COTB application approval.

Call 847-331-6961

Condos/Apts. for Sale

SEAPLACE LBK gulffront highrise.Peaceful greenbelt & bay views, elegant turnkey-furnished 2BR/2BA, hurricane-impact ready, half mile beach, next to clubhouse pool, gym & sauna, 2 properties from St. Regis restaurants & beach bar $499,000 (619) 787-7811

WANTED Paintings •B Bronzes •P Sculptures •O Oriental Rugs •S Asian Art •A Antique Furniture •A

Al Tomlinson 40+ years in Sarasota Honest Evaluations NO ONE PAYS MORE!

BOAT SLIPS FOR LEASE ON LONGBOAT KEY Annual and monthly leases are available. Deep water slips up to 40 ft with water and electrical service. Easy access to Sarasota Bay, ICW and Gulf Call 941-500-3895.

Auto Transport SHIP YOUR car, truck or SUV anywhere in the United States.

Great rates, fast quotes. Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

Luxury Sarasota Bay views 4 Bed 5 Bath with Boat Dock $1.76 million Near South bridge to Siesta One level, heated pool, stroll to shops. 3Bed-2.5Bath $1,250,000 Brooke O’Malley CLUB REALTY Call 941-726-2677

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Autos Wanted CASH FOR YOUR CAR We come to you!

Ho Ho Buys cars.

941-270-4400.

STORAGE FACILITY Boat/ RV/ Trailer. Secure facility, low monthly rentals, Clark Rd area.

941-809-3660, 941-809-3662.

WE BUY cars. top $$ paid for your vehicles.

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CALL 941-955-4888 Painting CARL DATTILO Painting Licensed & insured. Interior/ Exterior painting including drywall repair and retexturing.

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Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals L’AMBIANCE, LONGBOAT KEY Beach front 2BR/3BA condo on high floor with wrap-around terrace, 270 degree views over the Gulf, Sarasota Bay and LBK Club.

Sunrises, sunsets through floor to ceiling windows. View at: www.thephotos.smugmug.com Call John at: 203-984-8477 or E-mail: garment@optonline.net

WEEKLY MONTHLY SEASONAL RATES Beachfront, Bayfront and In Between Houses or Condos Reservations 941-383-5577 wagnerlbkrentals@gmail.com Visa/MC 5360 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Suite 101 Longboat Key, FL 34228 Rental office 9a.m. - 5p.m.

M-F Ask about our special rates!

Wagner Realty Since 1939

©2026 Universal Uclick

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “As someone who played up top and really cared about her craft, I really wanted to learn to be a goal scorer.”

Mia Hamm

Puzzle Two Solution: “The songs I was writing became ... therapy for me. I would ... express all of my feelings through these songs.”

Benson Boone Puzzle Three Solution: “I’d seen my father. He was a poor man, and I watched him do astonishing things ... He never lost his dignity.”

Sidney Poitier

This week’s Sudoku answers

www.rentalsonlongboat.com

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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.

ANTIQUES WANTED

Boat Slips for Rent/Sale

Plantation Golf Course View Condo 3 Bed $294,000

Pool Home Completely Upgraded $545,000

Antiques/ Collectibles

941-400-8811

Sailboat Access Canal 4 Bed Pending $675,000

House on Canal with Pool & Dock $1,250,000

real estate

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

auto

stuff

SENIOR LOOKING to purchase precious metals, diamonds, time pieces, coins, jewelry, antique and estate jewelry, and some collectors plates. Personal and confidential.

Please call Marc: 941-321-0707

Over 1 Acre Beachfront House $6.5 million

You’re only cheating yourself.

The Longboat Observer reserves the right to classify and edit copy, or to reject or cancel an advertisement at any time. Corrections after first insertion only. *All ads are subject to the approval of the Publisher. *It is the responsibility of the party placing any ad for publication in the Longboat Observer to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance with towncodes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property.

Notice: All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026

Auto Service

Health

SELL YOUR CAR!

GET YOUR LIFE BACK!

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026

B U YE R’ S TO

TO

Sunday, 7/19 1p-3p

Sunday, 7/19 1p-4p

$10,995,000

Set along the deep-water shores of Bird Key, this direct bayfront 5BR estate was designed by renowned architect Cliff Scholz and constructed by luxury builder Murray Homes. Spanning nearly 6,600 SF of elevated living space, the residence captures panoramic Sarasota Bay views that stretch out to the Gulf.

$2,795,000

Designed by famed architect Mark Sultana, this modern boater’s paradise is immediately ready for your enjoyment.

A newer-built residence, the 4BR layout abounds in sleek interior finishes, offering a resurfaced pool, newer dock, lift, and seawall that perfectly complements a coastal lifestyle.

www.705JungleQueen.com

476 MEADOW LARK DRIVE

www.476MeadowLark.com

TO

TO

TO

415 L’AMBIANCE DRIVE #PH-F $12,995,000

1199 WESTWAY DRIVE $6,999,000

246 MORNINGSIDE DRIVE $6,995,000

7689 COVE TERRACE $3,499,000

www.LAmbiancePHF.com

www.1199WestwayDrive.com

www.246MorningsideDrive.com

Just three homes in from the open bay waters, this updated 4BR waterfront residence is on a quiet cul-de-sac with nearly 100’ of water frontage.

TO

B U YE R’ S

www.7689 CoveTerrace.com

TO

B U YE R’ S

This striking contemporary waterfront residence, offering 4BR, 4,600+ SF interior, blends award-worthy architecture with extensive recent renovations.

TO

B U YE R’ S

This Gulf-front property is an exceptional opportunity to build a signature coastal estate on nearly half an acre with 127’ of water frontage.

TO

B U YE R’ S

Stunning Gulf-to-bay panoramic views from nearly every room of designer 4BR, 4,900+ SF L’Ambiance penthouse will mesmerize you!

2410 HARBOURSIDE DRIVE #142 $2,695,000

35 WATERGATE DRIVE #1506 $2,499,000

2050 BEN FRANKLIN DRIVE #B-704 $2,495,000

355 SOUTH SHORE DRIVE $2,295,000

www.MarinaBay142.com

www.TowerResidences1506.com

www.OrchidBeachB704.com

www.355SouthShore.com

TO

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TO

B U YE R’ S

Design your waterfront dream home in the heart of one of Sarasota’s most sought-after neighborhoods. Unobstructed bay access!

TO

B U YE R’ S

Beach-to-bay views abound from this turnkey furnished 3BR executive getaway at the Orchid Beach resort-style community.

TO

B U YE R’ S

Beautiful updates throughout this direct bayfront, This 15th-floor Ritz-Carlton corner residence is the epitome of downtown luxury living with nearly 3,400 SF residence, offered fully furnished stunning views. Includes 2 parking spaces! with secure parking and beach access.

$4,199,000

This 4BR, Key West-inspired waterfront residence blends timeless coastal design with extensive updates and exceptional indooroutdoor living. Set along 101’ of water frontage with direct bay access, the property offers a rare opportunity to enjoy a boating lifestyle in one of the area’s most sought-after neighborhoods.

TO

B U YE R’ S

B U YE R’ S

www.667MourningDove.com

705 JUNGLE QUEEN WAY

B U YE R’ S

667 MOURNING DOVE DRIVE

B U YE R’ S

TO

B U YE R’ S

B U YE R’ S

E XC L US I V E L I S T I N G S - TO U R T H E S E L U X U RY H O M E S TO DAY

541 FORE DRIVE - HARBOUR WALK $1,850,000

180 HORSESHOE LOOP ROAD $1,849,000

1513 OAK STREET #18 $1,449,000

1055 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #504 $1,299,000

www.541ForeDrive.com

www.180HorseshoeLoop.com

www.1513OakStreet.com

www.Beachplace8504.com

Furnished, direct Gulf-front getaway boasts an average of $70,000/year in rental income! Includes covered and additional parking spaces.

TO

TO

TO

TO

B U YE R’ S

This 3BR, two-story, 1,900+ SF residence offers the privacy and comfort of a single-family home with the walkability and energy of downtown.

B U YE R’ S

This 2021 waterfront estate on nearly two private acres offers direct bay access and 2,900+ SF of contemporary interior on multiple living levels.

B U YE R’ S

B U YE R’ S

The epitome of coastal contemporary living at this gorgeous 5BR home. Designer finishes, seamless outdoor living, and new dock (2025).

5320 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #101 $999,000

1350 SIESTA BAYSIDE DRIVE #1350B $949,000

9000 BLIND PASS ROAD #303 $799,000

5311 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #5 $799,000

www.LongboatLanding101.com

www.1350SiestaBayside.com

www.FishermansCove303.com

www.BeachCastle5.com B U YE R’ S

TO

TO

B U YE R’ S

Turnkey furnished and updated, this 2BR Beach Castle getaway is steps from the Gulf, offering proven rental potential.

TO

B U YE R’ S

Beautifully reimagined in 2024, this Gulf-front residence offers a rare opportunity to own one of Siesta Key’s most distinctive beach-to-bay retreats.

TO

Experience turnkey island living at this 3BR townhome residence a short walk from famed Siesta Key Beach. Includes private 1-car garage.

B U YE R’ S

Rarely available within the intimate community of Longboat Landing, this updated, turnkey 3BR bayfont residence offers effortless island living.

1328 SIESTA BAYSIDE DRIVE #1328C $714,000

1111 NORTH GULFSTREAM AVENUE #10E 1350 MAIN STREET #712 $699,000 $589,000

1603 GULF DRIVE NORTH #3 $489,000

www.1328SiestaBayside.com

www.OneWatergate10E.com

www.TradewindsResort3.com

Located in a gated community, this 2BR turnkey getaway offers a beach-to-bay Siesta Key lifestyle, with its own private garage.

Located on the 10th-floor, this nearly 1,600 SF downtown residence offers captivating city, bay, and bridge views. Includes 2 parking spaces!

This walkable, 7th-floor residence is the epitome of downtown living, in a pet-friendly community with many convenient amenities.

www.1350Main712.com

Turnkey furnished and fully renovated, this charming beach-to-bay retreat is a few steps from the Gulf front, with bayside amenities.

$400+ MILLION SOLD IN THE LAST TWO YEARS The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2023 Coldwell Banker.

All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

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