At the Republican Club of Longboat Key’s April 29 meeting, Nick Gladding was sworn in as the club’s new president, and former president Phyllis Black took on the vice president role.
Gladding said he is excited about the new position and has confirmed several guest speakers for the upcoming year.
“I am thrilled to take on this club position, and I want to broaden the scope for all Republican interests,” Gladding said.
On April 29, the club also hosted Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport President and CEO Rick Piccolo, whose presentation was well-received by the audience of about 64, according to Gladding.
The club will start again in October with a welcome-back party.
Garden Club closes out season
Though the Longboat Key Garden Club has plenty of activities planned for behind the scenes while it works on community beautification projects, it did hold its final planned club event last weekend before the summer season begins.
Members helped run the annual trunk sale at J. McLaughlin, with a portion of the proceeds going toward hurricane recovery work. It began May 1 and proved so popular the store extended the sale an extra day to Sunday.
The club is starting recovery work at Bicentennial Park to finish works before the Fourth of July.
$0.10
Dana Kampa Debbie Coulter, Beth Otto, Jana Pendery and Terri Guthier
Dana Kampa
LONGBOAT TO EMAIL US
Email press releases, announcements and Letters to the Editor to: Kat Wingert, kwingert@yourobserver.com TO ADVERTISE Display Advertising: To obtain information, call 941-366-3468, Ext. 345. Classified Advertising / Service Directory: For information and rates, or to place an ad, call 941-955-4888. Hours 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. To place a classified ad online, visit www.YourObserver.com, or email your ad to classified@yourobserver.com.
Longboat Key.
2.
Search is on for police chief
The town hopes to have the best candidate selected by mid-June, while Frank Rubino continues in the interim role.
CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER
The search is on for the new Longboat Key police chief. The Longboat Key Police Department has operated under the direction of Interim Chief of Police Frank Rubino since George Turner’s departure in January. The town is now seeking an official police chief to take over the position.
Town Manager Howard Tipton said he hopes to select the ideal candidate around mid-June, which will allow the Town Commission to meet the new chief before the commission leaves for summer recess.
The town began advertising for the job in April and has around 43 applications as of May 1, and Tipton said he anticipates the pool will include internal and external candidates.
Rubino, formerly the department’s deputy chief, has been serving as the interim chief of police since January after Turner’s departure. Tipton commended Rubino, who has applied for chief position, for his role in the transitional period of the department.
“During this interim period, the operation has run very well,” Tipton said.
It was one of Tipton’s goals after Turner’s exit to meet with other members of the police department to hear from staff about what they want in the next chief.
One theme Tipton heard was someone to lead by example. As Tipton described it, it’s a “working manager,” or someone who can be comfortable both in the field and as an administrator.
“We’re looking for someone who has the professionalism to run an accredited organization and take that to the next level,” Tipton said.
The department will continue its emphasis on community policing through connections with the resi-
“We’re looking for someone who has the professionalism to run an accredited organization and take that to the next level.”
town manager
— Howard Tipton,
dents and community groups. The ideal candidate, Tipton said, would also hold those values high.
In December 2024, Tipton sent an internal memo to tell staff that Turner would step down from his role at the end of January.
The memo did not disclose specific reasons for Turner’s departure, but Turner told his staff in a separate email it was because of Tipton wanting to take the department in a new direction.
Turner first worked for the Longboat Key Police Department from 2001 to 2007 as police captain.
Turner then returned to Longboat Key in 2021 and became chief of police.
months / $160
Sarasota/Siesta Key, East County and Longboat Observers meet the legal requirements to publish legal and public notices in Sarasota & Manatee counties, per F.S.
The Longboat Key Police Department
LBK survey: What about $?
It’s no surprise Longboat Key residents expressed high satisfaction in the town survey. That’s great. But maybe they also should be asked about their taxes.
Of course it’s good news — and frankly, of little surprise — that the results of the town of Longboat Key’s annual citizens survey were decisively positive.
You hear it often — Longboat residents commenting how Longboat Key is their paradise.
Yes, there is much to love and like — number one: the people; the physical appearance, Gulf of America/Mexico, Sarasota Bay, public and private amenities, worship institutions, Publix, restaurants, town services (especially public safety).
You cannot beat the overall quality of life. And Longboat residents who responded to the survey made that point — 97% of the survey respondents ranked Longboat’s quality of life as good to excellent. Much of that quality of life rating, to be sure, hinges on the residents’ themselves — how well they maintain their properties; the pride they have in the island; how the ethos of “Keep Longboat Longboat” is a real thing; and the expectations residents have of their government — those who are elected and hired to oversee the physical maintenance and safety of the town.
Longboaters have always had high expectations of their town government, and as such, residents have been willing to pay for those expectations. The two highest expense categories in the town’s budget are the fire/EMS and police departments. Those two departments account for $13.4 million, or 54.4%, of the town’s $24.6 million annual operating budget.
Compared to the city of Sarasota, Longboat Key taxpayers apparently are comfortable paying $1,782 a year per capita on public safety, almost twice as much as the city of Sarasota ($920 per capita).
Or are they?
To be sure, every Longboater knows it’s expensive to live on this sliver of sand. And clearly, they are willing to accept that; otherwise, they would be heading elsewhere.
But don’t kid yourself. Longboaters also are concerned about cost — especially in light of the exorbitant increases in property insurance in recent years.
We also saw that when, this past month, we reported in this space that the amount of property tax dollars Longboaters send to Manatee and Sarasota counties and to the respective public school districts topped $100 million in 2024 for the first time.
We heard from several residents who were shocked.
Money matters.
And yet, in the town’s annual survey, there isn’t a word that asks residents their opinions on the town’s budget, expenses, taxes or whether they think the Town Commission and town administration are doing a good job managing residents’ taxes.
One might assume Longboaters are satisfied. There are no protests at Town Hall. Rarely does anyone show up at Town Commission budget meetings to complain about millage rates. Nor do we see streams of moving vans packing Longboaters’ belongings for somewhere else. Nonetheless, there is the adage: Never assume.
In next year’s town survey, perhaps there should be a few questions that take the temperature of taxpayers on what they’re paying in taxes and whether they are satisfied with the way the Town Commission and administration is handling finances efficiently.
Likewise, at this point, we are compelled to bring up another sensitive omission in the survey: There was no mention of the proposed $11 million Sarasota County public library branch; of the proposed $3.5 million, privately financed community center portion of the project; or of a community center in the Manatee County half of the Key.
Question 26 on the survey was: How important is it for the town of Longboat Key to address each of the following issues in the coming years?
The issues included:
■ Beach management/shoreline protection
■ Sea-level rise
■ Canal dredging
■ Encourage the redevelopment of aging nonconforming properties
■ Infrastructure upkeep
■ Fiscal sustainability
■ Traffic congestion
■ New wastewater line to the mainland
■ Environmental initiatives
What about: “How important is it to develop an $11 million public library branch and $3.5 million adjoining community center on the Town Center Green?
Asked why town finances and the library were omitted from the survey, Susan Phillips, assistant to the town manager, said:
“The library project was already fully budgeted with the county. It’s ready to be built. It’s not a question whether it’s being built …
“(The survey) is more of giving commissioners tools to plan forward in their strategic planning.”
Likewise, there is always a debate on how many questions to include.
Even so, such a survey can be marketed as residents’ one time each year to let town officials know how they feel.
Don’t overlook any subject. It would be worthwhile to know how residents feel about the town’s two main recreational facilities — the public tennis center and the pickleball courts; on the condition of the Gulf of Mexico Drive sidewalks; and whether Longboaters think it worthwhile to spend nearly $40 million of federal, state and local tax dollars on a complete renovation of Gulf of Mexico Drive.
We’ll stop here at the risk of urging the creation of a survey no one will complete.
SAMPLING OF TOWN SURVEY RESULTS
RATING LONGBOAT AS A PLACE TO …
LEVEL OF SATISFACTION WITH …
ATTENDANCE AT TOWN CENTER EVENTS
From the town survey results: “Participation in community events at Town Center appeared to increase in 2025, with 58.7% of respondents attending seasonal markets, making it the most attended event. Attendance at other events varied, with 42.7% of residents attending the annual Community Open House, 22.5% attending concerts, and 14% attending the Fine Arts Show. These findings suggest strong community engagement in town-sponsored events, particularly those with recurring seasonal offerings.”
GOVERNMENT ALWAYS GROWS
It is no surprise that at the Longboat Key Town Commission’s recent strategy-planning retreat the subject of “resiliency” topped the priority list.
That is as it should, considering last year’s three hurricanes.
So the agenda is clear: Rebuild the town’s emergency reserve fund; decide how much to spend to renourish Longboat’s beach ($16 million to $38 million); and continue efforts to ameliorate the flooding that typically occurs in the Sleepy Lagoon and Buttonwood areas.
Also on the commission’s discussion agenda was the town’s facility needs. The library project still needs about $700,000 in private contributions, and similarly, the idea of a community center on the north end is unsettled. And then there is the forever deteriorating Bayfront Recreation Center. Town Manager
Howard Tipton says it will need to be replaced in five to 10 years.
That’s what all of his predecessors have been saying for two decades.
Of all the future projects, resiliency and other issues that surfaced, this next one might make you cough: Tipton says there is a critical need for more town government offices and training space.
Critical?
Longboat Key’s population hasn’t changed in 25 years (roughly 7,500).
But in the past 10 years, the town’s full-time employee count has grown from 109 to 124.
If anything is “critical,” perhaps first should be a critical evaluation of why the staff count has expanded.
But bet on this: Before you know it, we’ll see new town office and meeting space on the site of the Longboat Key Library after the new county library branch is developed.
“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 / Michael Harris, MHarris@YourObserver.com
Staff Writers / Dana Kampa, DKampa@ YourObserver.com; Carter Weinhofer, CWeinhofer@YourObserver.com
Digital & Engagement Editor / Kaelyn Adix, KAdix@YourObserver.com
Digital News Editor / Eric Garwood, EGarwood@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
Chief Financial Officer / Laura Strickland, LStrickland@YourObserver.com
Controller / Rafael Labrin, RLabrin@ YourObserver.com
Office and Accounting Coordinator / Donna Condon, DCondon@ YourObserver.com
Florida is No. 1! No, not just in NCAA basketball. But in the annual “Rich States, Poor States”/ALEC-Laffer State Economic Competitiveness Index rankings published by the American Legislative Exchange Council. In this year’s rankings, Florida tops the 50 states in economic performance, which is a backwardlooking measurement of the state’s performance in three key categories over the past decade:
■ Gross domestic product: No. 1; +95.3%
■ Domestic population migration: No. 1; +1,802,145
■ Nonfarm payroll employment: No. 4; +28.27% Along with that stellar ranking, however, the Laffer index (as in economist Arthur Laffer) ranks Florida 15th in economic outlook — a forward-looking forecast based on the state’s standing in 15 policy variables.
Florida ranked as high as No. 2 in the nation in 2021, but has since fallen every year.
The state ranks highest in the nation in the outlook categories of having no personal income tax and no inheritance tax and for being a right-to-work state. It ranks No. 3
for the number of public employees per 10,000 population. Florida ranks in the bottom tier of states in economic outlook for its tort system costs (49th); sales tax burden (38th), recently tax changes (33rd); minimum wage (32nd); and remaining tax burden (31st). For the 18 years Laffer and policy expert Stephen Moore have produced the rankings, the index consistently has shown states that spend less — especially on income transfer programs — and states that tax
and spend
(Full
Observer Media Group Inc. is locally owned.
Publisher of the Longboat Observer, East County Observer, Sarasota/Siesta Key Observer, West Orange Times & Observer, Southwest Orange Observer, Business Observer, Jacksonville Daily Record, Key Life Magazine, LWR Life Magazine, Baldwin Park Living Magazine and Season Magazine
CEO / Matt Walsh
MWalsh@YourObserver.com
MATT WALSH
HOW LONGBOAT’S QUALITY OF LIFE COMPARES …
Source: Town of Longboat Key Citizen Survey
Tree ordinance exemption passed
The amendment eliminates the 2-for-1 replacement requirement for properties that need to remove dead or severely damaged trees caused by natural disasters.
roperties with trees impacted by storms can now remove them with no need to replace one tree with two new ones.
The Longboat Key Town Commission voted 6-1 on May 5 to pass an amendment to the town’s tree ordinance. The objective of the change was to alleviate the pressure on certain properties by eliminating the two-for-one tree replacement requirement.
Chapter 98 of the town’s code outlines the requirement for properties to plant two mature trees for every one tree removed. If replacement is not possible, the property must pay a fee of $300 per mature replacement. Those fees sit in a fund for planting trees on public property.
The code exempted single-family lots from the requirement, meaning condominiums and commercial properties had to follow the ordinance. After Hurricanes Helene and Milton, town commissioners received emails from property owners concerned the ordinance created a burden on those trying to recover and now needed to add in the cost of replacing every one tree with two mature trees.
This led to the Planning and Zoning Board and Planning, Zoning and Building Department to craft the amendment that creates an exemption to the requirement for trees that are dead or severely damaged on properties that experienced a natural disaster.
At the commission’s April 7 meeting, the commissioners gave a unanimous first approval to the amendment, thus forwarding it to the second reading, which took place on May 5.
District 1 Commissioner Gary Coffin expressed concern about passing the amendment and giving properties the ability to remove trees without replenishing the island’s tree canopy.
He recommended sending the amendment back to the PZB for further consideration, potentially making the amendment a one-for-one replacement rather than a complete exemption. Coffin also suggested giving properties a three-year timeframe in which they could plant the trees rather than an immediate replacement.
“I just want to go on the record with that and say I think we should hold off on this ordinance,” Coffin said at the meeting.
Terri Driver also spoke at the meeting on behalf of the Longboat Key Green Team. She agreed with Coffin’s suggestions.
“We feel pretty strongly also that a one-to-one replacement would be great, and giving people three years is an excellent idea,” Driver said. Other commissioners felt the amendment was necessary as an immediate response to help properties in recovery, and commissioners reached a consensus to have the Planning and Zoning Board further evaluate the tree code altogether in the future.
Courtesy image
Hurricanes Helene and Milton caused vegetative damage across Longboat Key, including killing or severely damaging large trees.
The Tangible Benefits Of Private Aviation
For most of us time is a luxury. Flying private is about reclaiming that time and maximizing the efficiency and enjoyment of your travel. Let’s face it, say the word airport and we all cringe. For both business and leisure, private travel offers significant advantages over flying commercial.
TIME EFFICIENCY AND CONVENIENCE
Bypass the stress of long security lines, crowded terminals, and lengthy check-in processes with private air travel. You can arrive minutes before your flight and depart immediately upon landing. And, you control your schedule, flying when and where you need to.
By accessing smaller airports, you’ll be closer to your destination saving valuable time. Not to mention, Commercial airlines fly lower and slower, while private jets fly more direct and immediate routes. You’ll also avoid the risk of missed connections by avoiding the commercial airline ripple effect.
ENHANCED PRIVACY AND PRODUCTIVITY
Flying privately ensures a quiet, distraction-free space to work, hold meetings, or relax. Onboard Wi-Fi and workspaces en-
sure productivity throughout the journey. If privacy is essential, Orion Sky Charters will arrange transportation direct to your tarmac with security available for VIP clients. Clients are often provided with direct lines to a coordination team to allow for adjustments and real-time updates during their journey.
LUXURY AND COMFORT REDEFINED
Spacious cabins, plush seating, and personalized amenities provide for a relaxing flight and exceptional comfort. Enjoy gourmet dining tailored to your tastes and receive top-notch service from dedicated flight crews.
Orion Sky Charters offers access to luxurious lounges and business facilities. Orion’s staff utilizes premier FBOs and can handle a variety of requests such as hotel bookings, restaurant reservations, event tickets, or last-minute requests.
A SUSTAINABLE AND SMART CHOICE: ORION SKY CHARTERS
For those seeking a responsible and exceptional experience, Orion Sky Charters stands out. Their commitment to carbon neutrality ensures that your flight’s carbon footprint is fully offset, allowing you to travel with peace of mind. As a pilot-owned company, Orion maintains the highest safety standards, ensuring that all operators meet FAA regulations and all aircrafts hold a minimum ARGUS GOLD rating.
Moderately priced “empty-leg” flights are an excellent option for impulse travelers, offering a luxurious travel experience at a significantly reduced cost.
In 2025, spend time where it matters –Choose private air travel.
< TALKING TAP: Westcoast Black Theatre
Troupe hosts an evening with Broadway star James T. Lane. 19A
BLACK TIE: Dick Vitale Gala surpasses $100 million raised for pediatric cancer research. 20A >
ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT
AN
Towles Court Art Center is a hidden gem within walking distance from downtown.
ENCLAVE
EMILY LEINFUSS
CONTRIBUTOR
Tucked into a quiet pocket of downtown Sarasota — just far enough from the buzz of Main Street to feel like a hidden gem — is the artful enclave known as the Towles Court Art Center. Today, it’s home to nine working artists, many with national gallery representation and loyal collectors.
The center occupies a historic 1920s building that’s reminiscent of a farmhouse, complete with an Old Florida-style wraparound porch used for pop-up events and live music.
There’s a restaurant around back.
Inside, the studios hum with creative energy as artists produce new work in mediums ranging from oil paint and metal clay to abstract mixed media.
Together, these artists carry on a tradition of creativity and collaboration that began when the larger Towles Court neighborhood was revitalized in the mid-1990s as an artists’ colony.
The neighborhood itself dates to the 1920s, once a thriving residential area for professionals and seasonal visitors. By the late 1970s, however, it had fallen into disrepair. In 1995, developer N.J. Olivieri began its revival, envisioning — with the help of a few founding artists — a vibrant arts district.
At its peak, Towles Court was home to more than 50 working artists and 25 galleries. Monthly Third Friday Art Walks drew hundreds of people, including this writer. They felt like block parties celebrating how art was so cool.
By 2020, however, the dissolution of the Towles Court Homeowners’ Association and the elimination of deed restrictions on the neighborhood’s historic buildings opened the door for redevelopment, effectively dismantling the artists’ colony. But despite challenges, the Towles Court Art Center persists, with optimism and creative spirit intact. The storied Third Friday Art Walk continues, October through May from 4-7 p.m., drawing a smaller, but no less enthusiastic, crowd.
IF YOU GO
TOWLES COURT ART CENTER THIRD FRIDAY ART WALK When and Where: 4-7 p.m. on May 16. Regular hours 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., 38 Adams Lane. Wednesday through Saturday, and by appointment with individual artists. Info: Visit TowlesCourt.com for more information and to connect with resident artists.
More than just a cluster of studios, the center remains a creative community, a gathering place and a living testament to the resilience of Sarasota’s arts scene, even as the rest of the neighborhood undergoes construction and change.
A SHARED SPACE, A SHARED SPIRIT
“We all have very distinct styles. No two of us are alike. But the camaraderie is strong,” says painter Peter Garon. Originally from Massachusetts and a former architect and gallery owner in Washington, D.C., and Naples, Garon works primarily in oil, often painting “moods” rather than scenes. His titles evoke emotion, like “Calm,” “Rapture” and “Silence.” Garon explains his artistic process as beginning with a feeling that gradually evolves into a textured expression of color and form. For Garon and the eight other artists there, the Towles Court Art Center provides more than just a place to work in concert with each other. “When I first got to Sarasota and
Towles Court Art Center is located in a 1920s building just footsteps from downtown.
Towles Court artist Erica Caswell specializes in jewelry, including a set of earrings (left) that incorporates dried flowers.
Artist Peter Garon works on one of his paintings at Towles Court Art Center. His painting, “Jonquils,” is shown above.
Towles Court artist Anne Ireland divides her time between Sarasota and Maine.
Photos by Emily Leinfuss
Florida
THIS WEEK
THURSDAY
JAZZ THURSDAY AT SAM
5:30 p.m. at Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail
$25 Visit SarasotaArtMuseum.org.
Darcie Allen and the Five Points Quintet perform on the Marcy & Michael Klein Plaza at Sarasota Art Museum in a program sponsored by Jazz Club of Sarasota. The evening features extended hours in the galleries, bistro and museum shop.
BERMUDA MAVERICKS
7 p.m. at McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre, 1923 Ringling Blvd.
$26 Visit McCurdysComedyTheatre.com.
It’s not so often that McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre co-founder Les McCurdy takes the stage. This time, he’s half of the Bermuda Mavericks. The other half is Ken Sons. Together these brothers from different mothers deliver the right amount of stand-up comedy and improv. Runs through May 10.
‘EVITA’
7:30 p.m. at Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 Third Ave. W., Bradenton
$37 Visit ManateePerforming ArtsCenter. com.
Don’t cry for the Manatee Players! They’ve enjoyed the talents of Rick Kerby as their producing artistic director for more than two decades. For their last production of the season, the community theater presents the musical “Evita,” about the former first lady of Argentina. Runs through May 11.
‘BAD JEWS’
7:30 p.m. at The Sarasota Players, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 1130 $30-$42 Visit SarasotaJewishTheatre.com.
Written by Joshua Harmon, this often-humorous drama follows three adult cousins as they compete to own an heirloom hidden by their grandfather during the Holocaust. Runs through May 11.
‘SYNCOPATED AVENUE’
7:30 p.m. at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N. Orange Ave. $22-$52 Visit WestcoastBlackTheatre.org.
With “Syncopated Avenue,” created, adapted and directed by WBTT founder and Artistic Director Nate Jacobs, the company is producing its first tap musical, which explores the history of the art form. Runs through May 25.
‘JERSEY BOYS’
8 p.m. at FST’s Gompertz Theatre, 1265 First St. $49-$69 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.
Winner of both the Tony and Olivier awards, “Jersey Boys” tells the true story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, from their humble beginnings in the Garden State to their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This isn’t a musical revue; it’s a full-fledged musical directed by Ben Liebert. Runs through May 25.
FRIDAY
PINKY’S PLAYERS
7:30 p.m. at Venice Theatre’s Raymond Center, 140 Tampa Ave. W. $26 Visit VeniceTheatre.org.
In its 75th season, Venice Theatre once again demonstrates its commitment to keeping community theater accessible. This year’s production by Pinky’s Players, the theater’s program featuring adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, is “(Welcome to) Hotel Pink Flamingo.” Runs through May 11.
SATURDAY
TREE FORT PRODUCTIONS
CLUBHOUSE CONCERT
2 p.m. at Tree Fort Productions, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail
$25 Visit TreeFortProductionsProjects. com.
The gang’s sure to all be here
for this clubhouse concert from Katherine Michelle Tanner’s Tree Fort Productions. In this program, members of Tree Fort’s Advanced Acting Class will demonstrate their stage chops with monologues, a play reading and Broadway songs.
13TH ANNUAL STUDENT TENMINUTE PLAYWRITING FESTIVAL
2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at the Jane B. Cook Theatre, FSU Center for the Performing Arts
$30
Visit TheatreOdyssey.org.
Theatre Odyssey’s Thirteenth Annual Student Ten-Minute Playwriting Festival presents the eight plays selected by professional readers and written by area high school students from grades nine through 12 (or homeschooled equivalent). The winner of the best play award will receive the Verna Safran Prize — a $1,000 cash scholarship. Author of the runnerup play will receive a $500 cash scholarship, and the remaining authors will receive $100 cash scholarships. Continues May 11.
VIC & CARO
7:30 p.m. at Fogartyville, 525 Kumquat Court
$25 nonmembers; $20 members; $13 students Visit WSLR.org.
Hear what the voice of young country sounds like when Nashville twentysomethings Victor Futardo and Carolina Schott return to Sarasota and take the stage at Fogartyville, the funky listening room in the Rosemary District. Their duo, Vic & Caro, brings together Furtado’s prize-winning clawhammer banjo with Schott’s singer/songwriter talents.
COMEDY ROULETTE
8:30 p.m. at Florida Studio Theatre’s Bowne’s Lab, 1265 First St. $15-$18 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.
Looking to have fun on a Saturday night in Sarasota without breaking the bank? Look no further than Florida
Studio Theatre Improv Troupe. A team of four experienced improvisers deliver a mix of short form, long form and musical improv in a mashup of styles and techniques. Weekends through May 30.
MONDAY
‘CONJURING THE SPIRIT WORLD: ART, MAGIC AND MEDIUMS’
10 a.m. at the John and Mable Ringling Art Museum, 5401 Bay Shore Road Free with $25 admission; Mondays free Visit Ringling.org.
Go on the trail of things that go bump in the night with this fascinating interactive exhibition, which follows the growth of Spiritualism in the mid-19th century from its roots in dining room seances to traveling shows featuring magicians and mediums.
‘JAGDEN UND FORMEN’
7:30 p.m. May 12 at the Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave. $30 Visit ENSRQ.org.
George Nickson and Samantha Bennett’s contemporary classical music group ensembleNew SRQ closes its ninth season with Wolfgang Rihm’s “Jagden und Formen,” an ambitious work for 25 musicians. At a post-concert reception in the Opera House courtyard, concertgoers can meet the musicians and learn about the 10th anniversary lineup.
AN EVENING WITH JAMES T. LANE
7:30 p.m. at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N. Orange Ave. $37 Visit WestcoastBlackTheatreTroupe. org.
James T. Lane, who has just come from Broadway to star in Westcoast Black TheatreTroupe’s world premiere tap musical, “Syncopated Avenue,” will discuss his creative journey. Known as a “triple threat” because of his talents as a singer, dancer and actor, Lane will talk about his roots in Philadelphia, where he began studying tap at the age of 6, and the twists and turns of a career path that took him to the Great White Way.
OUR PICK
DON’T MISS
‘ODE TO JOY’
Led by Artistic Director
Joseph Caulkins
Joseph Caulkins, Key Chorale closes its ruby 40th anniversary season with a gift to young people who love music.
This all-Beethoven performance by the symphonic chorus is free for students under 18 and only $10 for college students. The program features the finale to Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, his Choral Fantasy and the rarely performed “Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage.” The concert will be followed by a Joyful Jubilee party to mark its anniversary. Tickets for that event are $125.
IF YOU GO
When: 4 p.m. Saturday May 10
Where: Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave.
Tickets: $20-$55; free for students under 18; $10 for college students Info: Visit KeyChorale. org.
SONGS FROM THE SAND:
AN EVENING OF HERMITAGE MUSIC
Hermitage Artist Retreat Artistic Director and CEO Andy Sandberg will host an evening of songs featuring music from Hermitage Fellows who have gone on to become Tony Award-winning Broadway musical writers like Jeanine Tesori, Michael R. Jackson and Doug Wright, as well artists and composers evolving the form, such as Adam Gwon, Zoe Sarnak, Rona Siddiqui and more.
IF YOU GO
When: 6 p.m. Monday, May 12
Where: Waterside Place Pavilion, 7500 Island Cove Terrace, Lakewood Ranch
Tickets: Free with $5 registration fee
Info: Visit HermitageArtistRetreat. org.
Courtesy images
Studio Theatre’s production of “Jersey Boys” runs through May 25 at FST’s Gompertz Theatre.
Amber and Tito Ortiz
UConn’s women’s basketball guards Azzi Fudd and Caroline Ducharne (right) are introduced to sports anchor Steven Hieneman and former Gators star N’Jhari Jackson at the VIP event held before dinner.
Sarasota’s own Tricia Ward with her husband, former professional basketball player Jerod Ward
Photos by Janet Combs
Lorraine Vitale is photographed with Arkansas head basketball coach John Calipari.
Sports Center anchor and gala emcee Kevin Negandhi, UF basketball coach Todd Golden, Dick Vitale, ESPN’s Hannah Storm, former WNBA player Nancy Lieberman, UConn head coach Dan Hurley and V Foundation CEO Shane Jacobson
YOUR NEIGHBORS
Mommy & Me
Families visit reopened toddler boutique before Mother’s Day.
Three generations of the Morrish and Geere family partook in some fun at the grand reopening of The Beaufort Bonnet Company on St. Armands Circle this past weekend. Youngsters bounced around the newly remodeled shop with painted faces and wielding balloon flamingos, with multiple families sporting their “Mommy & Me” clothing sets.
Christie Geere, mother of 3-year-old Elsie and 7-monthold Amelie, said her family has vacationed on Longboat Key from London ever since she was a baby. Now, she gets to do the same with her own children, and they were all excited for the reopening of one of their favorite stores right before Mother’s Day.
“We first visited a year ago, when I was pregnant with (Ame-
lie),” Christie said. “We found out that morning that we were having a little girl, so we came and bought all of our outfits when she was still in my tummy. And now she’s here, and we’re visiting from London right in time for the reopening.”
The children’s clothing boutique caters to “babies born with a refined sense of style,” and the family based store reopened Saturday morning after rebuilding from the damaging floods and wind from Hurricanes Helene and Milton, conditions even hurricane shutters couldn’t keep out.
She said the store managed to keep every member of staff, even after needing to close its doors for about seven months. Now, they look forward to moving ahead.
The shop is carrying end-ofspring and early summer lines, featuring everything from golf attire to watermelon dresses, in sizes ranging from newborn to size 14.
“We started with a bonnet, and now we’re up to so many stores,” she said of the brand that originated in South Carolina.
As the story goes, a first-time mother in the company’s namesake town crafted a baby bonnet from an heirloom pattern and then got inspired to start the business. She gifted one such pink-and-white gingham bonnet to a longtime friend in Lexington, South Carolina, years later when she had a baby of her own, and that friend purchased and ran with the business.
Laura Fulkerson said she and her daughters flew from Indianapolis to support Bonevento with the reopening on St. Armands Circle.
“We always shop with her and just love her,” she said. “It just makes my heart so happy that it’s finally here. It’s beautiful and perfect.”
— DANA KAMPA
Jennifer Jordan makes balloon flamingos, monkeys and more for Evie Fulkerson and Margaret and Catherine Hamlin at The Beaufort Bonnet Co.’s grand reopening.
Photos by Dana Kampa
Christie Geere, mother of 7-month-old Amelie and 3-yearold Elsie, joins grandmother Tracey Morrish for the reopening of The Beaufort Bonnet Co.
Families join in celebrating the grand reopening of The Beaufort Bonnet Co. on St. Armands Circle on Saturday, just in time for Mother’s Day.
The shop is focusing on its late spring and early summer lines for toddlers, including the brand’s “Mommy & Me” sets.
WILD FLORIDA
Connectivity key to healthy habitats
Wildlife corridors help maintain natural processes that support clean air, rich soil and freshwater.
eople cherish Myakka River State Park for its abundant flora and fauna.
Areas adjacent to and surrounding the park are largely designated as rural, agricultural or conservation lands. Importantly, this provides a buffer between the park and progressively urbanized areas in the region.
These buffers help protect the park’s important ecosystems from impacts of development or other harmful neighboring land use.
But the health of Myakka’s ecosystems is also dependent on a functional network of connected habitats beyond the park. Such ecological connectivity supports biodiversity by allowing wildlife to move freely to access food, water, shelter and breeding habitat. For example, connectivity allows fish, reptiles and manatees to traverse a freeflowing Myakka River, facilitates seasonal migration of butterflies and birds and can allow imperiled megafauna with a wide roaming range such as Florida panthers safely move through the park.
It also supports shifts in the ranges of natural communities in response to environmental and climate change, which increases resilience. By increasing genetic diversity, connectivity is also critical for flora and fauna population stability.
Unfortunately, human activities and development have fragmented the ecological connectivity of conserved lands such as Myakka, to the detriment of these natural communities.
Of special note, as connectivity decreases, populations of imperiled species, such as gopher tortoises
and Florida scrub jays, become smaller and more isolated.
Already at risk because of habitat loss and degradation, they’re at threat of becoming locally extinct because of lack of connectivity between remaining small patches of suitable habitat. Indeed, scrub jays were last seen in the park in 2005. To increase the likelihood they return — if there is a population in the area — Myakka’s team maintains the park’s small area of scrubby flatwoods the species depends upon in close to optimal conditions through prescribed fire.
Ecological corridors offer a solution to fragmented habitats. These areas of undeveloped land connect previously isolated habitats, allowing for ecosystem and genetic connectivity for plants and animals.
Designed to help animals safely cross roadways and other humanmade barriers, wildlife crossings enhance such corridors. Also, removing dams that hinder passage and disconnect floodplains improves aquatic connectivity.
Friends of Myakka River exists to support Myakka River State Park and the Wild and Scenic Myakka River. Together, we’re protecting and sharing Myakka’s Magic, to the benefit of future generations, and our own. Follow us @FriendsOfMyakkaRiver.
Miri Hardy
Ecological connectivity is critical for imperiled native species such as Florida scrub jays, who were last observed at Myakka in 2005.
HOLE IN ONE!
Laura Muth went to the Women’s Golf Association of Longboat Key’s recent farewell party hoping to simply take some final swings with fellow members at their last get-together of the season. Little did she know she was about to set a tremendous personal milestone.
Muth managed a hole-in-one during a scramble on April 29, which she then celebrated with friends at a luau-themed luncheon at the Longboat Key Club Harbourside Ballroom.
Initially, she didn’t realize she’d accomplished every golfer’s dream because no one could find her ball. Everyone had three tries to make their best shot, and Muth’s team thought another member had it. But after a bit of searching, they realized where her ball had landed.
Muth managed the hole-in-one with her nine iron from 85 yards. She moved to Longboat Key four years ago, and one of the first things she did was join the golf association.
The 90-plus members in attendance celebrated the season and welcomed a new board.
Lyn Haycock has been the president for two years, totaling six years on the board. Mary Taylor is now stepping up to the role.
“Stepping into Lyn’s
Laura Muth celebrates landing her first hole-in-one at the Women’s Golf Association end-of-season party with Terry O’Hare, director of golf.
shoes is tough,” Taylor said, crediting her with knowing everyone’s name. “But I’m very excited to take it on with a great board.”
Haycock said she is proud of how she helped advance the association in her tenure, but especially of the partnership with Golf Genius.
“This has been a great group to work with, so I’m a little sad to leave, but I know I’m still going to be involved somewhat,” she said.
“I’m just glad the WGA is as successful as it is right now.”
Incoming President of the Women’s Golf Association of Longboat Key Mary Taylor presents outgoing President Lyn Haycock with a bouquet.
Invest
Plan
a
Members of the Women’s Golf Association of Longboat Key held a final day of competition on April 29 before celebrating the end of the season. Results of the friendly matches were as follows.
n Linda Hargreaves, Pam Crowe, Katie Felicelli and Janet Hartman took first place in their foursome scramble flight with a -17.4 to par net and total net of 54.6. In the second flight, Mary Golia, Maria Gordon, Kathi-Ann Gage and Cathy Goglia took first, with -18 to par net and 54 total net.
n In flight one of the gross results, Michelle Swartz, Florence Bachelet, Louise Berg and Maria Krahn took first with -10 to par gross and 62 total gross. The second flight winners were Becky Smothers, Marlene WIlkening, Elaine Cichon and Arleen Klein with -2 to par gross and 70 total gross.
CAIM is a boutique, owner-run investment firm founded by seasoned portfolio manager Catherine Maniscalco Avery, who brings over 25 years of trusted experience in wealth management. We specialize in tailored investment strategies for women and baby boomers—individuals seeking personalized guidance, a long history of investment expertise, and peace of mind in today’s changing financial landscape.
Providing the expertise and care you deserve
• Preparing for Retirement
• Generational Wealth
• Navigating Financial Transition
Schedule your complimentary consultation today at (941) 388-7249 or visit us at caimllc.com
Arleen Klein, Marlene Wilkening, Becky Smothers and Elaine Cichon join in
festive luau celebration for the Women’s Golf Association of Longboat Key farewell for the season.
Photos by Dana Kampa
Pam Reiter, Ruthellen Rubin, Betsy Granite and Marge Heller join in the fun.
Mary Taylor, Barbara Brizdle and Marcie McGovern enjoy the farewell luncheon.
’Vettes for vets
Saturday’s gathering of auto enthusiasts didn’t solely provide an opportunity for drivers to swap stories and showcase their rides. Corvettes on the Circle also served as a fundraiser for the Honor Flight of West Central Florida, which provides transportation for veterans to visit memorials erected in their honor in Washington, D.C.
Attendees and organizers from the Skyway Corvette Club voiced their appreciation for this event’s return. It went on hiatus this past year while they worked out a dispute with the city of Sarasota about parking on the grass at St. Armands Circle.
They reached a compromise last year, and the event returned for its 26th year this past weekend.
Skyway Corvette Club Vice President Allen Harmsen said they were glad to fulfill the 170-car capacity for this year’s event, all for a good cause with a local focus.
He said the club has made honor flights possible for more than 30 veterans, primarily of World War II.
“It’s our way of giving back to the community,” he said.
James Dulle won “Best of Show” with his 1963 root beer-colored Coupe, and Mike Moss took the “Skyway Favorite” with his 1957 red Convertible.
Classic car owners showed out in numbers, as well.
Venice Florida Corvettes member Joseph Russo caught plenty of eyes with his 1958 Panama Yellow Restomod, which he found at a Mecum auction.
“Half my fun is coming here and talking Corvettes with everyone else,” he added.
— DANA KAMPA
Freddie Mitchell takes the opportunity at Corvettes on the Circle to share his 2020 Sebring Orange Corvette, which previously won in the C8 class.
Onlookers checked out unique rides at Corvettes on the Circle, including this 1957 “Team Zora USA” special edition in Venetian Red.
Photos by Dana Kampa
Joseph Russo won first place in the C-1 class at Corvettes on the Circle.
Corvettes on the Circle returned to St. Armands Circle on Saturday after last year’s hiatus, celebrating 26 years of bringing together fans of the brand.
Owner Joe Arme, of Sarasota, shares his iconic ride that featured in the 2009 film “Star Trek.”
Riders up
inflatable horse steeds and stylish hats of every variety, viewers of this year’s Kentucky Derby packed Longboat Key venues Saturday to watch the race.
Owners of Lo’ Key Island Grille said even though it has been a busy few months since their grand opening, they didn’t want to miss hosting a watch party given owner Kevin Pass hails from Lexington, Kentucky.
Patrons joined in on a hat contest, snacked on Derby-inspired fare like the classic mint julep or a hot brown and, of course, made their predictions on the winner.
Viewers had a variety of favorites for the top spot, including Tiztastic, Sandman, Journalism and Render Judgment — who was owned by the late country music star Toby Keith.
However, only a few people correctly called the ultimate winner,
Sovereignty. John Mulligan, joined by his wife, Gale, was one of those lucky few to predict jockey Junior Alvarado would ride to victory. Mulligan said it was an especially enjoyable evening considering he has been a supporter of the restaurant from the beginning, and winning was just the cherry on top.
“We watch the Derby every year,” Gale said when asked if they’ve correctly called the winner in the past. “He’s very lucky — he’s Irish.”
The watch party drew some fans from Kentucky, who fittingly won the “best grand entrance” title during the hat contest. Jana Pendery said she’s been several times.
Viewer Donna Kozatek said she dreams of someday seeing the race in person, especially given that her birthday falls around the same time as the race. Last year, the race landed exactly on her birthday, and her friends held a Derby-themed celebration.
“Last year, I picked Mystik Dan, and he ended up winning,” she said. Patrice Fanning, who watched the race with her sister-in-law, Kathy Fanning, won the top best hat prize.
Her black hat contrasted with the typical neutrals and pastels popular in Derby fashion, but she added details, including faux flowers, horse cutouts and the restaurant logo.
— DANA KAMPA
Photos by Dana Kampa
Patrice Fanning wins the prize for best hat at the Kentucky Derby watch party.
John and Gale Mulligan, left, cheer as their pick for the winner of the Kentucky Derby, Sovereignty, reaches the finish line.
Emily Tiles, Sophia Acerb, Andrea Santiano, Madison Santiano, Rachel Tritschler and Brynleigh Tritschler
Shannon Morgan and Donna Kozatek share their love of multiple sports at a Kentucky Derby watch party.
Jules Mackie | Tracey Stetler | Nicholle DiPinto McKiernan | Patrick DiPinto | Rene DiPinto | Steven Moore | Janet Coughlin
NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH
FORECAST
TIDES
“NZSPNOOC K’F NYYKZSBY SX
MZKBWZB VKZSKXW. OBS FB FNLB FC YKZSKXW ZOBNJ – K OXAB MZK-VK.” RXUW JUCM-YNAKBM
“CUNOA JPLZ P IPXVEPS BUCZN. GJZK EPR ZVGJZN WNVRX GJZ XNZPGZAG JPBBVRZAA UN GJZ OZZBZAG OZABPVN.” AVXITRO HNZTO
“TSVSR BMSWCE TI TNKKIE DSP NHVSPB. ... NHVJKF JB NCC NTSWV IRYPIBBJSK; XMZ XSWCE ZSW XNKV VS JPSK SWV N DPSXK?” PNHMIC XIJBGY
TICKTOCK by Jessica Bloom-Foster & Larry Snyder, edited by Jared Goudsmit
By Luis Campos Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present. Each letter in the cipher stands for another.
