Longboat Observer 9.25.25

Last chance to support Community Harvest

The 1905 Family Of Restaurants, including Cha Cha Coconuts and the Columbia Restaurant on St. Armands Circle, is making its final bid to raise funds through its Community Harvest drive this September.

This is the fundraiser’s 28th year. Throughout the month of September, the restaurants set aside 5% of proceeds from diners’ checks to support chosen charities. Diners can select a charity to support.

The restaurant group has donated more than $4.4 million to 100 nonprofit groups since the inception of Community Harvest, according to a press release.

Send in the sweets! After closing for nearly a year following the devastation of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the Kilwins sweets shop on St. Armands Circle is planning to make a splash with its grand reopening this week.

The shop, which specializes in gourmet fudge, ice cream and other treats, is handing out samples and planning live entertainment for the celebration. It will take place from 1-4 p.m. on Sept. 27 at 312 John Ringling Blvd. Visitors can also anticipate photo opportunities with mascot “Kilwins the Moose” in addition to giveaways.

1

1

The

$295 MILLION

The estimated decrease in Longboat Key property values in Manatee County from 2024 hurricanes. Longboat leaders gave final approval to the 2026 fiscal year budget with those impacts in mind.

PAGE 9 6

Ingredients in challah bread, which was baked by temple goers to celebrate Rosh Hashanah.

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CALENDAR

n Longboat Key town commission meeting —

Town to lobby state to not abolish funding sources

Longboat Key town commissioners have not been shy about their opposition to talk in Tallahassee regarding the abolition of property taxes, and the commission discussed making that opposition official by including that viewpoint at the top of their list of legislative priorities for 2026. At Monday’s commission workshop, a list of priorities were presented for discussion before it is finalized. Town Manager Howard Tipton explained that maintaining the town’s main funding source, property taxes, would be heavily

emphasized to the delegations.

The 2026 fiscal year budget shows that property taxes make up 75% of revenue in the general fund, which funds day-to-day operations of the town. The biggest expense of the general fund (58%) goes toward public safety.

“We depend, and when I say we I mean a number of different taxing authorities from hospitals to counties to special district to cities, we all depend on these revenue sources. We make long range plans with these revenue sources,” Tipton said. “For those to be monkeyed with without a

great deal of thought and debate is of great concern.”

The list of legislative priorities the town is advocating for also include amending Senate Bill 180, which restricts the abilities of local governments to enact land development code changes following hurricanes.

According to 1000 Friends of Florida, a “smart growth advocacy group”, the bill also prevents cities and towns from enacting building moratoriums and opens municipalities to legal challenges from developers.

a Wednesday pickup schedule beginning Oct. 8. Trash collection will continue to be held on Mondays and Thursdays.

Waste Management publishes a list of “three basic rules” on its website to increase the efficiency of recycling. Those are: recycle bottles, cans, paper and cardboard; keep food and liquid out of your recycling; and no loose plastic bags and no bagged recyclables.

Waste Management also shared in a press release that yard waste placed in plastic bags will no longer be accepted. Paper bags or yard waste placed in a reusable can or bin will be collected.

Sea turtle nesting data updated last time before season ends

The 2025 turtle nesting season on Longboat Key already looked promising in early August, when the number of nests counted on local beaches surpassed the record set in 2019 of 1,300.

Now, as the laying season winds down, the figures are showing a promising trend for the island and surrounding areas.

Mote Marine put the total number of nests to date at 1,473 on Longboat Key for the week of Sept. 14-20. The conservation group plans to deliver its official end-of-season report Oct. 31, drawing to a close the season that started May 1. Surveyors also documented 2,219 false crawls — evidence of a turtle crawling up onto a beach but not laying eggs — on the island.

This compares to 1,259 nests on the Key in 2024 and 994 in 2023.

The uptick follows trends in the wider area, as well. Across Longboat Key, Lido Key, Siesta Key, Casey Key and Venice, surveyors noted 5,732 total nests per the weekly report. They counted 4,376 in 2024 and 4,301 in 2023.

Tennis is in a pickle

Bayfront Park is home to only free tennis, pickleball courts on Key.

The tidal-wave growth of pickleball in the past decade has splashed down in Bayfront Park and changed the landscape of the only venue for free racket play on the island.

The public park smack-dab in the middle of Longboat Key has gone through a metamorphosis since the baseball diamond and dual-tennis court layout of 2016. Three pickleball courts have been added adjacent to the two hardcourt tennis courts. In 2018, the town did what some tennis players may scoff at — paint atop a tennis court with lines to accommodate pickleball.

Last year, the other tennis court was striped for pickleball, leaving no dedicated tennis courts at the park overlooking Sarasota Bay. That’s caused a minor issue for Christopher and Hannah Reynolds, who drive from downtown Sarasota to Longboat Key to hit together against a scenic backdrop.

“The only time it’s annoying is just when you come and the tennis courts are full of (pickleball players),” Christopher said. To avoid a wasted trip, the two avoid driving to Bayfront in the morning when the pickleball rush is in full force, because they know it would be a long wait to play.

“In tennis you only really play for like 60 or maybe 90 minutes because it’s more taxing,” Christopher said. “Whereas pickleball, that group can be out here for like three hours.”

Being a free, public court, there’s no expectation that a court will be available, but both tennis courts being occupied by those playing a different sport is not ideal.

“I think it’s fair enough to say first come, first serve. And we talk with a bunch of the pickleball players that play here, and they’re so nice to us. They’re so kind,” Hannah said. “But sometimes we just wish there was at least one tennis court because then this gets overtaken.”

PICKLEBALL AT CAPACITY

On a Friday morning, the unmistakable “donk, donk, donk” sound of pickleball echoed around Bayfront

MORE COURTS?

There aren’t plans to add more pickleball courts to Bayfront, but the town has budgeted $150,000 in the 2026 fiscal year for a resurfacing of the permanent pickleball-specific courts. The need is evident. The acrylic layer that is placed above the concrete base has split like a fault on the courts. The concrete foundation of the court expanded and retracted with the change in temperature, causing a crack in the foundation as well as the acrylic playing surface.

Park as dozens gathered.

Sheila Loccisano can be seen at the Bayfront pickleball courts just about every day. An advocate of the sport, Loccisano outgoingly asks “where’s your paddle?” to the ill-equipped venturing toward the courts. She doesn’t just play, she acts as a caretaker for the pickleball players at Bayfront, bringing a shade structure, supplying balls, cleaning up. “She is the mother of pickleball,” one fellow pickleball player described.

Pickleball is a social sport, and the amount of people using the courts is impressive. They’re commonly full during peak season, with a queue. Teams in line rotate in, spectating and socializing while they wait for a court to open up. A paddle holder with more than a dozen slots signifies a players’ place in line.

“During season, you could wait an hour, an hour and 20 minutes to play one game. One game lasts 15 to 20 minutes,” Loccisano said.

Discussion of whether to paint the second tennis court to accommodate pickleball back in 2023 did not center around tennis players who used the court, but from other parkgoers concerned about availability of parking, according to a Longboat Observer article. Pickleball, often played as doubles, can bring many to a little area of the park. What started as two tennis courts with a maximum of four players is now essentially seven pickleball courts, which can accom-

modate 28 players, often bringing double that number or more to the park.

Loccisano said many pickleball players choose to bike to the park because parking inventory is slim. Bayfront, with its dog park, canoe ramp, basketball court, shuffleboard court, playground, recreation center and walking trails, is used for more than just its courts.

THE SUPPLY TO THE DEMAND

What recreational activities Bayfront Park should accommodate is something Longboat Key Streets, Facilities, Parks and Recreation Manager Mark Richardson thinks about a lot.

Richardson said pickleball at Bayfront Park started with a pilot program of lining one tennis court for pickleball use in 2013.

“Obviously, everybody loved the two pickleball courts, so that’s why we built a permanent one,” he said. “Two years after the permanent one, they were asking for more permanent ones.”

With seven pickleball courts (sans tennis players) now available at the 8.4-acre park, Richardson said the town has responded to the demand for pickleball courts and that he believes there is enough capacity.

“We’ve noticed capacity has only really been a morning problem,” Richardson said. “You don’t build enough courts for your max amount of people for a short period of time, and then during the summer they go unused.”

Richardson said that as of January 2024, there were at least 71 other pickleball courts scattered across the island in condominium complexes, racket clubs, hotels, etc.

Richardson said in peak season the town alternates “open-play” days between pickleball and tennis in peak season. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, the two multipurpose courts are reserved for tennis from 9 a.m. to noon. On Monday, Wednesday and Friday, the multipurpose courts are designated for pickleball players.

Loccisano said she has noticed a “mutual respect, generally speaking,” between pickleball players and tennis players at Bayfront Park.

PAY-TO-PLAY

Like pickleball, all but one location to play tennis on the key comes with an admission price. The most accessible of which is the Longboat Key Public Tennis Center off Bay Isles Road.

The town-run facility has 10 HarTru clay courts available to rent via seasonal or annual memberships or for an $18 walk-on rate. Even with an admission fee, the complex is thriving, said Ron Watts, a director of the nonprofit Friends of Tennis group.

From November to March, seeing the courts packed is a common sight.

“Tennis numbers here have been steadily increasing nicely,” Watts said. “This is a very popular facility.”

Tennis is growing nationwide. Not as fast as pickleball, but still growing. According to the United States Tennis Association, the sport has gained new recreational players for the fifth year in a row, with 25.7 million players. Pickleball, even with the well-publicized meteoric growth of the sport, has less players than tennis with 19.8 million players, according to the Sports and Fitness Industry Association.

IF YOU GO

BAYFRONT PARK PICKLEBALL AND TENNIS COURTS

n Address: 3970 Royal Road.

n Free to play

n Hours: 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. (courts unlit from May through October due to sea turtle season)

n Three dedicated pickleball courts

n Two multipurpose courts, which can accommodate two tennis games or four pickleball games

n Monday, Wednesday, Friday mornings: Pickleball prioritized open play on multipurpose courts n Tuesday, Thursday mornings: Tennis prioritized open play on multipurpose courts

LONGBOAT KEY TENNIS CENTER

n Address: 590 Bay Isles Road

n Prices: $18 per person for walk-on play (90 minutes); $1,100 annual family membership; $765 single membership; seasonal rates also offered n Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closes noon on Saturdays and Sundays during summer) n Round robins at 3:30 p.m. (Ladies on Monday, Wednesday, Friday; Men on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday) n Mixed round robin at 10:30 a.m. and noon Sundays n Open play at 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and

Andy Sawyer is one of many tennis players who come out with a group to hit at the Longboat Key Tennis Center. Sawyer, like many other tennis enthusiasts, prefers to play on clay. Seeing a hardcourt tennis court converted into a pickleball court doesn’t bother him. Sawyer and Watts both say hard court tennis courts aren’t used much on the Key.

“We have over 100 clay courts on the Key, and of course as you age, the clay is much easier on your knees and legs, so I don’t want to play on a hard court to be honest,” Sawyer, 82, said. Watts and Sawyer both said the Bayfront Park tennis courts didn’t get much use even before the pickleball lines were painted on.

Friends of Tennis took the term “pay to play” to another level. The nonprofit funded the construction of four additional courts in the early 2000s and also funded the construction of the clubhouse/pro shop.

And the nonprofit hopes to continue to expand the number of tennis courts, with Watts saying the group hopes to fund three more courts to be built in conjunction with the town’s “Complete the Green” project.

“Pickleball players anywhere, not just on Longboat, always want more courts. But you have to play that balance of how many courts are necessary that are free to the public for a small island.”

—

Mark Richardson, Longboat Key Streets, Facilities, Parks and Recreation manager

paintover began in 2023, with one tennis court able to accommodate two pickleball courts on each side of the exist-

Name change discussion carries on

Town commission debates over Gulf of Mexico Drive reference.

S.T. CARDINAL STAFF WRITER

It wasn’t on the agenda, and town leaders were content to leave the discussion until October, but someone said the M word, and voices raised.

At a Longboat Key Town Commission workshop meeting Monday, discussion on legislative priorities unexpectedly descended into debate when a commissioner suggested it may be better to refer to the road as State Road 789 on a document state lawmakers would be reviewing. On a page detailing the town’s legislative priorities for the 2026 state of Florida legislative session, the third item on Longboat Key’s list was “support funding for complete street improvements to Gulf of Mexico Drive through the town of Longboat Key.”

The sentiment was agreed upon by commissioners. The improvements and state funding for them are welcome, but Commissioner BJ Bishop suggested not writing Gulf of Mexico Drive on the final version of the document.

“Could we just replace GMD with route 789, since that is currently what they’re asking since they’ve taken the signs down, on our legislative priorities list?” asked Bishop.

The question follows a Florida Department of Transportation move to remove the big green Gulf of Mexico Drive signs from state-owned intersection mast arms. FDOT said the department did so in response to a change in state law that describes how state departments refer to the body of water west of Longboat Key. The town scheduled a meeting on Oct. 20 to discuss whether to rename the road, and messages from residents began pouring in. According to a recent tally gathered by town staff, 91 emails were received from residents on the subject. Of those, 67% expressed opposition to renaming the road, 23% said

the road should be renamed Gulf of America Drive and 10% suggested another alternative name.

Mayor Ken Schneier said, though minimal, referring to the name as anything other than Gulf of Mexico Drive before residents had their say in a public meeting would be a concession, and changing the name of the road is not popular in the community.

“I wish. I really, really, really wish we weren’t having this conversation now. Because I think if we had left things the status quo until it comes before us, (we could) know whether the feeling of our community continues to be five to one against,” Schneier said.

The town tally that includes social media comments shows nine people in support of naming the road Gulf of America Drive, and 105 saying it should remain Gulf of Mexico Drive.

“No one has asked us, except for one individual and a couple of followers in the community, to change the name of the road to anything or to change the designation that we have of the road to anything from

Observer

The name of Gulf of Mexico Drive on Longboat Key has become a hot topic of discussion since the Florida Department of Transportation removed the signs in August.

what it is,” Schneier said.

Town Manager Howard Tipton has said the only thing that has changed is how FDOT refers to the road, which the state is only calling State Road 789. A town FAQ page set up after FDOT’s move explains that resident mailing addresses have not changed and that the local name of the road is still Gulf of Mexico Drive. But those mast arms that once displayed Gulf of Mexico Drive remain empty, with FDOT waiting to see what the town decides. If the town were to stick with the name Gulf of Mexico Drive, FDOT would put up signs marking the road as State Road 789. If any other name were picked, FDOT would put signs up matching that new name. Vice Mayor Debra Williams suggested writing “State Road 789 (recognized locally known as Gulf of Mexico Drive)” on the legislative priorities document.

FDOT is waiting, and others are monitoring, Town Attorney Maggie Mooney noted.

“Your lobbyist has indicated that this is being closely watched by the delegation members to the extent

Opposed to name change

In favor of Gulf of America Drive

Suggested other road name

that that makes any difference in what you put down on this paper. It is being closely watched,” Mooney said. “So, for what it’s worth, I think the vice mayor’s suggestion is a good one, kind of walking both lines right now so as not to upset anyone.”

After 20 minutes of back and forth, a motion was made by Schneier and the commission voted unanimously to write both Gulf of Mexico Drive (State Road 789) on the document.

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Two projects, one use of dirt

Sediment pulled from canal dredging may be used to bury wastewater pipeline.

he town of Longboat Key is hoping to utilize a two birds, one stone approach to its canal dredging and underwater sewer pipeline projects. The stone in the above analogy is sediment that sits at the bottom of Sarasota Bay. Longboat Key Public Works Director Charlie Mopps told commissioners the town is looking at ways to use sediment removed during future canal dredging to bury the planned subaqueous wastewater pipeline. First Line Coastal, a Sarasota-based engineering firm specializ-

ing in coastal work, is consulting with the town on the project. Mark Stroik, a founding member and project manager of First Line Coastal, said reusing the sediment will save the town time and money and be beneficial to the health of seagrass on the floor of Sarasota Bay.

“It is less expensive to dispose of the material by using it beneficially by placing it in the hole that is going to be dug out through the subaqueous program, and it’s also less expensive to receive that fill rather than purchasing it from a mine and importing it in to place it. So it’s a dual benefit, which we’re really excited about,” Stroik said.

It’s too soon to tell just how much money will be saved by reusing sand from dredging canals and burying the pipeline.

Mopps said the last time canals were dredged was in 2003. At that time, the town went through mitigation efforts for some of the canals it dredged to restore impacted seagrass. Mopps said canal dredging

would be the start of a maintenance program for the canals, which is important for boat navigation, water quality and stormwater drainage.

“All of the drainage from Longboat Key ends up in a canal at some point in time,” Mopps said. “It restores and maintains access, improves and maintains stormwater, reinforces the appeal to real estate and tourism.”

When the next round of dredging happens, there would need to be additional seagrass mitigation.

“Through an effort that the town started in 2016 up to about 2020, they identified some canals that need to be dredged, but they have seagrass impacts and they weren’t mitigated for in 2003. Those required about 2 acres of seagrass mitigation area be created. We’ve already permitted the site. We have four acres that we can use, so we just need a certain amount of fill to bring those up,” Mopps said.

The project won’t happen for years because it won’t be funded by loans but with a direct assessment (flat fee) on properties bordering a canal, and

“All of the drainage from Longboat Key ends up in a canal at some point in time.”

— Charlie Mopps, Longboat Key Public Works director

a dedicated property tax based on assessed value for all Longboat Key residents. What that rate will be is not set, with public outreach scheduled in the coming months and the first public hearing for an intent resolution expected to happen not until December.

“We’re not setting an assessment (in December), we’re just setting the ability to create this,” Mopps said.

Mayor Ken Schneier said public outreach will be important to demonstrate to residents why the dredging is needed and what it could cost them.

“I think that people in the island will recognize we have canals and there’s been nothing done to maintain them in a number of years, so this program is necessary. I don’t think that will be questioned,” Schneier said. “But people, when they are getting their first presentation, the main question is going to be what is this going to cost me and is it fair.”

Mopps said construction would not begin until the nearly $9.2 million needed for the project is collected. How long that would take depends on what assessment rate town commission chooses and when.

There are still obsctacles to making an operation like this happen. The projects would have to coincide if the sediment pulled from dredging is to be used to cover the subaqueous pipeline, and with years required to raise funds for the canal dredging, time is of the essence to pass an assessment to raise funds for it.

“Nothing is ever a done deal, but we’re planning for it,” said Mopps. In the meantime, the town has been collecting soil samples from the bottom of various canals to inspect them. Some soil is better suited for seagrass growth, with a softer texture ideal. If and when the town moves forward with the sediment repurposing, soil would be sent for a more scientific method of testing.

Visibility, transparency and collaboration

Longboat police chief shares priorities with residents at community meetings.

At separate community meetings Tuesday, Longboat Key’s new Police Chief Russ Mager described the importance of “visibility” for a police department, while demonstrating that principle himself in another way.

Attending back-to-back meetings, Mager made himself available to the public for questions and discussions on his approach to policing on Longboat Key. For Rotary Club of Longboat Key member Jeff Driver, hosting Mager allowed the club to welcome the new chief and gauge ways the club can help the department.

“It’s a small town, so I think Rotary is one of several civic organizations that can welcome them, obviously, but also find ways to support them,” Driver said.

Mager, who started as chief in August, said one of his focuses in his new role is to ensure police are visible on the island. For him, that’s attending meetings and making himself available. For officers, it’s being stationed on Gulf of Mexico Drive to let residents and visitors know police are on patrol.

“I think it makes people feel safe when they’re visible. I think it deters crime,” Mager said.

Other buzzwords among the department lately are transparency and collaboration. At a “Let’s Talk Longboat” meeting hosted by the town at Bayfront Park earlier Tuesday, Mager answered a question from an attendee on what he plans to do differently from his predecessor. He said he can’t speak on what his predecessor did or did not do, but that he believes “in full transparency.” Town Manager Howard Tipton said that transparency is not just from the police department to the citizens, but in cross-department communication within the town of Longboat Key.

“One of the things that struck us during the interview process was the communication skills,” Tipton said. “Sometimes, the police department can act as an island and not work well with other departments. We want them working together, and we have seen that so far.”

At the Rotary meeting, Mager spoke in front of the 11 attendees, explaining his background and what brought him to Longboat Key before answering questions. One question was about open carry after a 1st District Court of Appeals ruling paved the way for law-abiding Floridians to carry guns openly and without a permit. That decision and its ramifications has some law enforcement leaders worried, including Mager, though he said he doesn’t believe it will have much of an impact on Longboat Key but could cause issues in Sarasota.

“This rule is very Wild West-ish. I don’t like that,” he said. “People have the right to carry guns, but I don’t know if that means they should be carrying them around everywhere.”

Open carry does not mean the public has unfettered rights to walk around with a firearm. There are still restrictions on where a gun can be brought including courthouses, government meetings, schools and colleges, and other restricted locations described in Florida statute 790.06.12(a). Private landowners and business owners can also prohibit firearms as they reserve the right to tell anyone to leave the premises for any reason.

INTENSE EDUCATION

Bird

Key Yacht Club lends clubhouse for Sarasota Police explosive training.

DANA

KAMPA STAFF WRITER

Bird Key Yacht Club’s 65-yearold clubhouse is now sitting empty, but it is far from inactive. In fact, the soon-tobe-demolished facility provided a valuable training venue for first responders last week, who took the opportunity to turn the vacated building into the center of explosive training.

The club invited Sarasota Police Department demolition experts to use the space for explosive entry training on Sept. 5.

When a large-scale emergency happens, first responders may need to get officers inside a building when time is of the essence. In those instances, they may turn to explosives to get through the main doors.

Sgts. Dustin Luciano, team leader, and Aaron Stoll, lead breacher, led the demolition team that morning in conducting a series of controlled explosions, each larger than the last.

Stoll explained officers will typically default to mechanical means of entry, physically breaking through doors. However, they will tactically use explosives when they quickly need to get officers onto the scene.

Those measures can sound drastic, but after the team detonated the first charge attached to a set of glass French doors, Stoll showed the meticulously calibrated explosion opened the lock without even breaking the glass.

Luciano said it was valuable to test out their techniques in a unique environment with an atypical set of doors.

“On an in-swing door, we have different sizes of charges we may use,” he said. “What’s important to us is to be exposed to multiple entry points and types of doors so we have the statistics guiding us and we can successfully get in the doors during an operation.”

Experts need to strike a balance between using the least amount of explosive power possible in the interest of safety, while also having enough power to gain access in an emergency.

Luciano shared his appreciation for the Sarasota venues that have lent their space for such trainings, especially when it provides an opportunity to collaborate with fellow forces like the local fire departments.

The training even extended to the SPD K-9 unit, with Officer Adam Bearden taking the chance to get K-9 Officer Butch familiar with a detonation scene. His barks could be heard throughout the empty halls with the final countdown.

Bird Key Yacht Club General Man-

“If

ager Tammy Hackney said she was glad to offer the space for training ahead of the demolition slated for the end of September.

Hackney said she initially spoke with SPD officer Helios Blanco, who suggested the collaboration.

“Pretty soon after, I got a call from Sgt. Luciano, and we set everything up,” she said. “We were delighted to do so, because there is no better way to give this building back to the community.”

Friedrich Hayek “Road to Serfdom,” 1944

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Longboat condo owners handle change

Regulations continue to evolve in the wake of Miami building collapse.

When Miami’s Surfside condo tower collapsed in 2021, the ripple effects extended across the whole state.

The collapse claimed the lives of 98, and with any tragedy of that magnitude, changes followed. On Thursday, Sept. 18, at the Longboat Key Club, there was a symposium for condominium owners, managers and homeowner association leaders to navigate changing regulations.

David Novak, who manages 908 residential units with Longboat Private Services, was one of several speakers and an organizer of the event, which was hosted by Community Association Network Group.

The collapse of the Surfside Champlain Towers condo building, which was constructed in 1981, had a chilling effect on condo owners and state lawmakers across Florida.

“That basically generated the legislation because that was bad for the entirety of Florida because you can

point to all these buildings and say that looks just like Surfside, or that looks worse and older than Surfside,” Novak said. “So the state got caught with its pants down, basically, and so they had to react.”

According to Novak, there are a few aging high-rise buildings that are 45 years old, but most are considered midrises.

“None are of same design of Champlain Towers or the Dolphin Towers, a Sarasota building whose tower was also supported by a parking lot structure,” Novak said in an email. “Today, all three-story or greater buildings on Longboat Key have had structural studies and, if deficient, all have taken steps to remedy the problems.”

Novak broke down the changing regulations behind condo management into five categories: milestone studies, structural integrity reserve studies, information transparency, administration and technology, and oversight and control.

The increased requirements are meant to identify deficiencies in structures, ensure that managers have funds put aside to fix any structural issues and increase transparency among homeowner and condo owner associations. It has also made condo management on the Key more demanding.

“What has happened in the Legislature since 2021 is an annual series of requirements placed on condo owners that, along with storms, insurance, and inflation, have significantly raised the cost of ownership, forcing many to ask whether the benefits of living here are outweighed by the costs,” Novak wrote. Novak explained the state of Florida has invested big to increase the amount of people inspecting condo towers to ensure their structural integrity. Novak explained after the event that the time of passive residential management are no more.

“The easy days of the past, the comfortable days of the past are no more,” he said. “You’re in a retirement community, a leisure community, and yet in order to operate your domiciles, you’ve got serious business in front of you. That falls upon the board of directors and whomever you choose to manage that. Every year the Legislature puts new demands on us, and you could say we’re close to the breaking point, meaning that no one’s going to be able to comply with some of this stuff, especially the smaller associations. The state is going to have to put their foot on the brake pedal or put some other tweaks in there.”

Key’s budget finalized

Longboat’s $24.1 million was given final, unanimous approval Monday.

S.T. CARDINAL STAFF WRITER

The Longboat Key Town Commission gave second and final approval of its 2026 fiscal year budget Monday.

The unanimous approval was a formality after months of discussions about funding priorities in a year following back-to-back hurricanes in 2024. According to budget documents, storm damage caused a $295 million decrease in property values in Manatee County.

The 2026 fiscal year budget has a $24.1 million general fund mostly funded (76%) through property taxes. The biggest expense are police and fire, with 58% of expenditures going toward public safety.

The property tax rate remains unchanged, and Town Manager Howard Tipton described the budget as “storm-weary” with funds going toward rebuilding the town’s reserves after they had to dip into the pot in the 2025 fiscal year.

“The general fund balance did take a hit last year from the storms. It was about $8 million that we drew down,” said Finance Director Susan Smith. “We are recovering some of that money through insurance, and we are aggressively pursuing FEMA reimbursements.”

That includes $4.3 million the town expects to be reimbursed for debris removal the town contracted out after the hurricanes.

Tipton wrote in his transmittal letter for the new budget that $161,787 of excess revenue will also partially be used to rejuvenate depleted reserve funds. The town has the following in its various reserve funds, which act as piggy banks in case of extreme circumstances or are reserved for future infrastructure projects: $7 million in general fund; $9.6 million in special revenue fund; $348,000 in debt

CAPITAL PROJECTS

The town of Longboat Key’s capital projects, which total $122 million.

(numbers in $ millions)

service fund; $36.1 million in capital project funds; and $68.4 million in enterprise funds.

According to budget documents, the enterprise fund accounts for “continuing operations which provide services to the general public that are similar to a private business enterprise.” The fund is split into two departments, the building department and water and sewer utility.

Capital projects, which total just over $122 million, are major infrastructure projects such as streets, canal dredging and beach renourishment. The town’s budget lists a one-year capital projects list, which will be funded in the next fiscal year, and a five-year capital projects list that shows how the town is planning future major projects.

The town also gave final approval to extend its building permit fee waiver through the end of the year after requests from north-end residents still rebuilding from hurricane damage.

“I think this town has been very understanding of the historic impacts our residents have faced and understand that there are certain circumstances that have prevented them from moving forward,” Tipton said, adding that it will be the final extension, which is reiterated in the text of the ordinance.

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 17

LEMON LIFT

8:03 a.m., 600 block

of Kingfisher Lane

Citizen assist: Dispatchers routed police to a home on Longboat Key on a theft call, which was changed to a citizen assist designation after police learned more. A responding officer called the complainant when he arrived on the scene, for the complainant was out of town. The complainant told police he saw on his doorbell camera a landscaping employee enter the left side of his property and leave with about a dozen lemons from his fruit tree in a bag. Police noted on the report that the neighboring property utilizes the landscaping company described by the complainant, who told police he merely wanted to document the incident and for police to advise the company that its employees shouldn’t be stealing lemons. The case was closed.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 13

BIG BANGS

9:20 p.m., North Shore Road

Suspicious Incident: Police were dispatched to a house on the north end of the Key after what a caller heard what they believed were two gunshots 10 minutes apart from each other from behind the residence. Another police officer, while on a traffic stop, came across a group of kids setting off fireworks on Coquina Beach. The officer asked the kids to stop, which they did, and the case was closed.

MONDAY, SEPT. 15

BLINKING BUOY

8:01 p.m., North Shore Road beach

access

Marine rescue: Law enforcement was dispatched to a beach access on North Shore Road for a marine rescue on a recent Monday evening. Police met with the complainant, who said they called to report a continuously blinking light in the gulf about a mile offshore. A Longboat Key Fire Department battalion informed the responding officer that the blinking light came from a U.S. Coast Guard buoy, and police closed the case.

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 17

JUST WAITING ON AN UBER

8:32 p.m., 6700 Gulf of Mexico

Drive

Citizen assist: A resident of a condominium complex called police on a group of people for trespassing. The resident told police there were several people inside the condo complex’s maintenance shed playing loud music and cursing, and she did not feel comfortable. Police went to the shed and spoke with three men, who identified themselves as a project manager, plumber and electrician, each of whom was wearing polos matching a contractor that performs work at the complex. One of the three showed police a key to unlock the shed and said they were authorized to be there and were just hanging out waiting for an Uber. Police advised them of the complaint, and the three said they would happily go to the project manager’s unit on property. Police went back to the complainant’s unit, who was not satisfied and requested the three be formally trespassed. The officer advised the woman of trespass law, suggested her to call the HOA, and closed the case.

WORSHIP directory

Flowing florals

The newest addition to the shopping scene on St. Armands Circle blends flowery linens and sleek leather goods under a South Carolina-based brand.

Spartina 449 opened a new boutique at 331 John Ringling Blvd. this month, making it the company’s 19th store. A 20th is scheduled to open later this year in Naples.

Managers shared their excitement for playing a role in helping rebuild the St. Armands Circle community, which is still recovering from last year’s hurricanes.

Some of the most recent reopening celebrations include Lilly Pulitzer’s in April and The Beaufort Bonnet Company’s in May.

Others are still pending, like the recently announced reopening plans for the Tommy Bahama on the Circle. The new space is set to include retail shopping on the ground floor and restaurant space on the second floor.

Spartina 449’s new home is located between Everything But Water and the Daiquiri Deck.

Store manager Jodi Faaborg said, “I have lived here for 37 years, and it has always been my favorite place to shop.”

CEO Kay Stanley founded the company in 2009, drawing inspiration from Daufuskie Island’s character and natural beauty.

The island, located on the southernmost border of South Carolina

and the Atlantic Ocean, is home to white sand beaches, ancient oaks and historical landmarks.

Stanley was living in a seaside cottage on the island when she started her brand. According to the website, she works to honor “the island’s unique heritage, boasting colorful patterns and timeless stories.”

Spartina 449’s collections of women’s clothing include floorlength dresses, blouses, jackets, pajamas, handbags and more.

The new St. Armands shop aims to feature lines from the brand that also fit Longboat Key’s breezy yet sophisticated aesthetic. The new shop even includes luggage and travel bags.

“Our Sarasota store is meant to inspire a Lowcountry destination akin to the soul of our business,” the website states.

Other Florida locations include The Villages, Dunedin and St. Augustine.

IF YOU GO

SPARTINA 449

Where: 331 John Ringling Blvd., Sarasota. Open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays. Info: Call 941-4141530 or visit Spartina449.com.

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

KING FIT FOR A

Key Chorale kicks off its 41st season with Mozart’s Coronation Mass.

MONICA ROMAN GAGNIER

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

Nearly 250 years after a ragtag band of colonists threw off the yoke of their imperial masters and declared the right to rule for and by the people, the trappings of royalty still gleam brightly.

Perhaps the idea that the crown is bestowed by divine right is comforting in a world that threatens to spin off its axis. Or maybe the long-running Netflix series “The Crown” has inspired a longing for pageantry and palaces. In any event, music composed for regal occasions continues to draw appreciative audiences.

There’s no disputing that popes, kings and a few wealthy merchants were responsible for the creation of many of the world’s great works of art and music. Why? Because they could afford to pay artists.

In the 20th century, industrialists and government helped foot the bill. As the old order is upended, who will underwrite the arts? Time will tell, but in the meantime popular appeal is more important than ever.

With this in mind, Key Chorale Artistic Director Joseph Caulkins is leaning into majestic programs this season for the symphonic chorus. He’s taking his cues from last season, the group’s 40th anniversary.

“We programmed a lot of big works for our Ruby Anniversary,” Caulkins says. “The orchestral masterworks attracted the biggest audiences. There seems to be an appetite for these pieces. We’re blessed to be in a community that appreciates great art, whatever the facet.”

In February, the pews were packed at Church of the Palms for Key Chorale’s concert of Verdi’s Requiem. Maestro Caulkins led 150 performers, including four opera soloists, in the composition for a Catholic mass often called an opera in disguise.

Key Chorale will kick off its 41st season on Sept. 27 with a concert called “Coronation: Music Inspired by Royalty.”

The program features the Key Chorale Chamber Singers performing Handel’s “The King Shall Rejoice.” The composition has been played at every investiture of Britain’s monarch from King George II in 1727 to King Charles III in 2023.

The centerpiece of the program is Mozart’s Coronation Mass, a 30-minute piece featuring festive brass, timpani and a memorable soprano aria.

On hand to sing it will be Mary Wilson, a visiting soloist who will join the 100 voices of Key Chorale and a professional orchestra. Look at the musicians closely and you’ll see some familiar faces from the Sarasota Orchestra.

An acclaimed classical vocalist, Wilson is a professor of voice at the University of Memphis. Her soprano voice will be accompanied by tenor John Grau, mezzo-soprano Amy Jo Connours and baritone Jesse Martin.

MIXING THE CLASSICS WITH NETFLIX MUSIC

Followers of Britain’s royal family will no doubt recognize John Tavener’s “Song for Athene.” It became Tavener’s most celebrated choral work after it was sung at the Westminster Abbey funeral of Diana, Princess of Wales, in 1997.

KEY CHORALE’S 41ST SEASON AT A GLANCE

Sept. 27 Coronation: Music Inspired by Royalty

Nov. 30 Joy & Wonder featuring The Sarasota Ballet’s Studio Company

Dec. 18-21 Sounds of the Season with Venice Symphony

Jan. 23 Opus 1700: Handel — The Rest of the Story

Jan. 24 Opus 1700: Bach — Mass in B Minor

Feb. 7 Mendelssohn’s Elijah

March 2 Tomorrow’s Voices Tonight, Student Scholar Soirée

March 13-15 Cirque des Voix

March 29 GenSRQ: A Youth Celebration

April 18 Radiance: A Concert by Candlelight

May 3 One Light, Many Voices

Key Chorale’s regal program moves into popular culture with Hans Zimmer’s theme from “The Crown” and music from the 2010 Oscar-winning film “The King’s Speech,” which will feature Key Chorale principal keyboardist Glenn Priest.

In addition to audience appeal, another reason that Caulkins is leaning into masterworks such as Mendelssohn’s Elijah (Feb. 7, 2026) in the current season is that he believes Key Chorale has the artistic chops to do so. “The ensemble is at the height of its abilities in the 18 years that I’ve been here,” he says.

Of the dozen events Caulkins has programmed for the latest season, eight will include all 100 singers from Key Chorale and a full orchestra. In some cases, the orchestra performing is Venice Symphony, from Sarasota’s neighbor to the south.

Since his arrival at Key Chorale in 2007, Caulkins has made collaboration with other arts groups a hallmark of his organization. Over the years some of these co-productions have become cherished traditions.

The 2025-26 season will see the return of Key Chorale’s annual holiday celebration featuring Sarasota Ballet’s Studio Company with a Nov. 30 program called “Joy & Wonder” as well as the yuletide concert featuring the Venice Symphony, “Sounds of the Season,” from Dec. 18-21.

One of the most anticipated events of season is the annual Cirque des Voix, a collaboration with both the Circus Arts Conservatory and Venice Symphony. You haven’t seen circus until you’ve seen acrobats, aerialists and other circus performers accompanied by a symphony chorus and a full orchestra.

Caulkins and his Cirque des Voix partner, CAC co-founder and pro-

duction and artistry strategist Pedro Reis, are masters at blending highand low-brow culture. It’s a tradition that dates back to circus magnate John Ringling, who once had elephants in tutus perform a ballet choreographed by George Balanchine to the music of Stravinsky.

There are no animals at the Cirque des Voix (Circus of Voices), but there are pop culture hooks, such as music from comic book-inspired franchises that have become Hollywood staples. The theme of this year’s Cirque des Voix (March 13-15) will be “Super Heroes vs. Super Villains.”

“We’ll start with the Superman March,” Caulkins says. “The music will be powerful and dramatic. We’ll be celebrating athleticism with the circus artists. When you add the chorus, it becomes not just a concert, but an experience.”

Last year’s Cirque des Voix celebrated music found in science fiction films and other media and attendees of all ages were invited to dress as their favorite sci-fi character for a costume contest. This season’s event will once again encourage cosplay. One can imagine the audience as a sea of Supermans, Batmans and Fantastic Four members as well as their enemies, Lex Luthor, the Joker and Dr. Doom.

In 2026, Key Chorale will once again team up with Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe for its annual student scholar soirée at WBTT’s Donelly Theatre on March 2.

NO OCTOBER EVENTS THIS YEAR

After being forced to cancel last year’s

IF YOU GO

CORONATION: MUSIC INSPIRED BY ROYALTY

When: 4 p.m. on Sept. 27

Where: Church of the Palms, 3224 Bee Ridge Road Tickets: $45 Info: Visit KeyChorale.org.

because of Hurricane Milton,

says he’s

26/26/26

steering clear of October events this year. (Evidently, September isn’t as frightening, even though that’s when Hurricane Helene hit.)

This season, Caulkins and his October musical co-conspirator Sam Nelson are turning their attention to the month of January.

That’s when they will present twin Opus 1700 concerts featuring the works of Handel and Bach. Nelson is organist and choirmaster at Church of the Redeemer, where both events will be held Jan. 23-24, 2026.

The first Opus 1700 concert is called “Handel — The Rest of the Story” because it features Parts 2 and 3 of the Messiah, which are heard less frequently than Part 1, a holiday staple at churches and music groups. Nelson will conduct the Handel concert and Caulkins takes the baton the next day for Bach’s Mass in B Minor.

With his track record of innovative collaborations, Caulkins has established a strong presence for Key Chorale in Sarasota’s arts scene.

He is only the second artistic director in the history of the group.

Key Chorale was founded in 1985 by Ann Stephenson-Moe, organist and choirmaster of the Church of the Redeemer, and Don B. Ryno, minister of music at St. Boniface Church. Its first artistic director was Daniel Moe, who served for 21 years.

Earlier this year, Caulkins received a vote of confidence when Key Chorale extended his contract by 10 years. In addition to collaborating with other arts groups, Caulkins has increased Key Chorale’s community presence through outreach programs aimed at youth and seniors.

In addition to its traditional student scholar soirée, Key Chorale is adding a new youth program inspired by the wildly successful closing event at Sarasota’s inaugural Living Arts Festival in 2024. Key Chorale’s concert, “GenSRQ: Celebrating Our Youth,” will take place March 29 at the Sailor Circus Arena.

Caulkins and Reis gave Living Arts Festival founder Jeffery Kin crucial support last year in staging the Celebration of Youth program, which took place in the wake of Hurricane Milton.

Another addition to Key Chorale’s schedule is a candlelight concert called “Radiance,” to be held at the First Congregational Church on April 18. Mark your calendar because the concert is free for students 18 and under, and just $10 at the door for college students. For adults, it’s $47. Hundreds of candles will light up the room as chamber singers perform what is billed as “some of the most sublime, divine and heavenly music ever written.” Let’s hope the audience understands that there are no cellphones in heaven.

Celebrate National Breakfast Month with

egg-cellent dishes

These five eateries in Sarasota and Bradenton form my own personal Breakfast Club.

in town, with September being National Breakfast Month and all.

As we all inhaled our breakfast sandwiches, just about everyone agreed the first meal of the day was the best meal of the day. And really, what’s not to love? There’s the simplicity of the ingredients and the fact that we poor millennials can always afford to fry an egg and toast a slice of bread, whether it’s pay week or not. Then there’s the nostalgia that bacon brings as it sizzles.

It got me thinking that I need to give a little culinary love to some other egg-cellent local breakfast dishes

In a world where the headlines can make your stomach hurt, there’s something comforting about a stack of pancakes, a crispy strip of bacon or a perfectly brewed cup of coffee.

That’s the magic of National Breakfast Month. It’s an excuse to lean into the comfort of morning glory. It almost makes you wish every month was dedicated to breakfast — and that every facet of life could be this egg-cellent.

Here’s where you can find me ignoring the world around me and partaking in my own breakfast club.

BAGELS & BREWS CAFE

6970 S. Beneva Road, Sarasota; 941-993-1577; BagelsAndBrewsCafe.com.

Rise and Dine: If you’re new here, you’ll learn quickly that I’m a sucker for a bagel after living in Connecticut for 25 years. It was impossible to find anything that resembles a Tri-state (New York/ New Jersey/Connecticut) bagel in our area until Bagels & Brews came along. They have the classics, but after you bite into an everythingcheddar, you won’t remember the staples. Pair it with their freshly made veggie cream cheese ($4.25) and you’ll thank me later.

Breakfast Club Bliss: Two words: pork roll ($8.99). With one hard egg, American cheese, Taylor ham on a sesame bagel — you will be fueled for the morning. This is a breakfast column, but the café has an extended lunch menu that should not be skipped.

MAMA G’S GERMAN BAKERY

4413 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; 941-926-2692; 8431 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; 941-355-9236; MamaGsBakery.com.

Rise and Dine: Right after college, I lived in Germany for nearly a year teaching English. Every Friday, as I was recovering from a Thursday night expat meetup, I’d grab a roll with hard-boiled eggs at a deli across the street from school and shove it into my mouth as my first students walked in for the day. So when I saw that Mama G’s served Fruhstuck ($8.95), it had to make my list. This traditional German breakfast comes with two slices of ham and Swiss cheese, hard-boiled egg, apricot and strawberry preserves, butter and two rolls. The budget-minded may save half of

this meal for a lunch or an afternoon snack.

Breakfast Club Bliss: Looking for something a tad simpler? The plethora of German pastries, offered in both savory and sweet options, are too long to list here, but a few of my favorites are the cheese danish ($3.95), almond croissant ($3.95) and the kale and goat cheese pocket ($5).

PROJECT COFFEE

538 S. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota; 1419 Fifth St., Sarasota; 941-313-2283; ProjectCoffee.us.

Rise and Dine: The caffeinefocused morning crowd will be pleased with the options for that morning cup of jolt at Project Coffee’s locations in Burns Court and the Rosemary District. Whether you choose the simple yet delicious cortado ($4.75), a double shot in steamed oat milk, or an elevated strawberry milk supermatcha ($6.50), you’ll leave feeling ready to take on the day.

Breakfast Club Bliss: Don’t skip on the eats, my latte-loving pals. Depending on the location, the menu may change, but the pastries

baked in house are not to be missed — nor is “the world’s greatest avocado toast” ($12.75) made with Brad Bandits sourdough, radish, Brick Street Farms microgreens and extra virgin olive oil. (Add a soft scramble for $4.)

THE BREAKFAST COMPANY 4832 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; 941-706-4225; 7246 55th Ave. E., Bradenton; 941-201-6002; 411 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota; 941-3648767; 8491 Cooper Creek Blvd., Bradenton; 941-210-4760; TheBreakfastCompanyFl.com. Rise and Dine: Prepare to be inundated with delicious, mind-boggling choices. From a Parisian bowl ($17.95) with two eggs, braised short rib, fontina cheese, baby spinach, mushroom, caramelized onion and diced chive to Boston cream pie pancakes ($13.95) with vanilla custard and chocolate ganache drizzle to southern eggs Benedict ($16.95) with crispy chicken, crackedpepper gravy, scrambled eggs on a grilled biscuit. This isn’t an ordinary breakfast, it’s egg-traordinary! Breakfast Club Bliss: On your birthday, you are treated with a mini-cinnamon roll that is to die for. Pair it with the pomegranate mimosa ($8.95), or an orange, cranberry or pineapple-ginger one. Or make it a screwdriver!

GUERRERO’S BAKERY & MEXICAN RESTAURANT 3557 Webber St.,941-9234459;OrderGuerrerosBakery.com.

Rise and Dine: My grandfather, regardless of where we went for breakfast, always ordered the huevos rancheros, even if it wasn’t on the menu. I can’t tell you how many times in the early ’90s we had to bury our heads under the table as he walked back to talk to the chef if a waiter told him that the fried eggs and tortilla duo wasn’t an option. Well Poppy, if you were here, I’d bring you to Guerrero’s for huevos rancheros ($12.99), served eggs over medium with three fried corn tortillas, topped with red sauce. Breakfast Club Bliss: Huevos con chorizo ($12.99) is calling my name next time I head to Guerrero’s. These portions are generous, so be sure to come hungry first thing in the morning!

THIS WEEK

THURSDAY

‘FEELING GOOD’

7:30 p.m. at Florida Studio Theatre’s Court Cabaret, 1265 First St. $18-$42 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

Sarasota Contemporary Dance presents MaKayla Lane’s work, “It Takes Nothing to Have Something,” on Saturday, Sept. 27.

The latest musical revue created by Rebecca Hopkins and Richard Hopkins, “Feeling Good” pays tribute to singers some call contemporary crooners, artists like Michael Bublé and Bette Midler. A dynamic trio — Haley K. Clay, Andrew Leggieri and Russell Mernagh — makes its Florida Studio Theatre debut. By performing swingin’ hits like “Come Fly With Me,” “It Had to Be You” and “Me and Mrs. Jones,” “Feeling Good” reminds us that seduction works best with a little savoir faire. With musical arrangements by Jim Prosser, the singers are joined by Christian “CC” Allen on drums and Prosser on piano. Runs through Feb. 8.

‘A BAND CALLED HONALEE’

7:30 p.m. at Florida Studio Theatre’s Goldstein Cabaret, 1239 Palm Ave. $39 and up Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

The subtitle of this Florida Studio Theatre cabaret show is “A Tribute to Peter, Paul Mary … and Friends,” but any self-respecting folk rock fan can spot the play on words in the name “A Band Called Honalee.” ICYMI, it refers to the mythical land made famous by the children’s song “Puff the Magic Dragon.” The incarnation of Band Called Honalee appearing in Sarasota includes Brian Ott, a veteran of FST’s Simon and Garfunkel inspired show,“59th Street Bridge.” He is joined by Michael Grieve, Geoffrey Neuman and Sigrid Wise. Runs through Oct. 26.

FRIDAY

‘NUNSENSE’

7:30 p.m. at Venice Theatre’s Raymond Theatre, 140 Tampa Ave. W., Venice

$40 Visit VeniceTheatre.org.

Join Mother Superior Sister MaryRegina and the rest of the nuns as they stage a madcap variety show to help defray the cost of funerals after a culinary disaster. “Nunsense” began as a line of greeting cards before becoming an Off-Broadway musical in 1985 that has since morphed into a global comedy phenomenon. Murray Chase directs Venice Theatre’s production. Runs through Oct. 5.

SATURDAY

SARASOTA OPERA FOOD & WINE

FESTIVAL

1 p.m. at Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave. $75 in advance; $85 at the door; $150 VIP Visit SarasotaOpera.org.

DON’T MISS FAMILY FEST

Inspired by its popular Friday Fests (currently on hiatus), the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall hosts its first Family Fest with “Alice in Wonderland” as the theme. Two performances of Asolo Rep on Tour’s production of “Alice in Wonderland” will take place, at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. During the Family Fest, which ends at 2 p.m., attendees can participate in themed activities with local community groups, purchase snacks from food trucks and shop at the Children’s Entrepreneur Market. Teaching artist Mr. Stevey leads interactive mindfulness and literacy activities.

IF YOU GO

When: 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 27

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

Tickets: Free Info: Visit VanWezel.org.

Support the Sarasota Opera Youth Opera with an afternoon of food, music and dancing. Local restaurants, wineries and artisans will help deliver a festive fall experience. Among the local restaurants represented are Fork and Hen, Lefty’s Oyster & Seafood Bar, Michael’s on East, Rose & Ivy, Selva Grill and Tzeva at Art Ovation. Libations will be provided by 99 Bottles, Beauty Booze, Gold Coast Eagle Distributors and more.

SARASOTA CONTEMPORARY

DANCE IN-STUDIO: MAKAYLA LANE

3 p.m. and 7 p.m. at Sarasota Contemporary Dance Home Studio, 1400 Boulevard of the Arts, Suite 300

$20 Visit SarasotaContemporaryDance. org.

Company member MaKayla Lane has expanded her work “It Takes Nothing to Have Something,” first presented in 2024, into an fulllength piece as part of Sarasota Contemporary Dance’s commitment to highlighting voices from within its ranks. Continues Sept. 29.

SUNDAY

HD AT THE OPERA HOUSE:

VERDI’S ‘OTELLO’

1:30 p.m. at Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave.

$20 Visit SarasotaOpera.org.

Jonas Kaufman, Marco Vratagno and Maria Agresta star in the Royal Opera’s 2017 production of Verdi’s “Otello,” based on the Shakespeare play about the titular military officer who begins to suspect his wife, Desdemona, of being unfaithful at the cruel suggestion of his ensign Iago. Verdi’s final tragedy, “Otello” was an overnight sensation at its 1887 premiere and has been a standard of international opera repertory ever since.

YOUNG ARTISTS SHOWCASE:

ASTRID VICTORIA

7:30 p.m. at Westcoast Black Theatre, 1012 N. Orange Ave.

$27 Visit WestcoastBlackTheatre.org.

Astrid Victoria is one of the young artists who has grown up on the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe stage. She starred in her first Young Artist Showcase in 2021, when she was just out of high school and ready to attend college. Now that she has earned her degree in commercial music from Southern University in Lakeland, she returns to the WBTT stage full of gratitude for all that has taken place in her life and anticipation for the journey ahead.

OUR PICK

CHAMBER SOIRÉES: SERENADES AND SYMPHONY

Sarasota Orchestra members kick off the season with a concert featuring a full chamber orchestra without conductor. The program begins with Richard Strauss’ “Serenade for Winds” and moves along to Dvorak’s “Serenade for Strings.” The entire chamber orchestra comes together to play Mozart’s Symphony No. 25.

IF YOU GO

When: 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28

Where: Holley Hall, 709 N. Tamiami Trail

Tickets: $48 and up Info: Visit SarasotaOrchestra. org.

MONDAY

‘ANCESTRAL EDGE’

10 a.m. at The John and Mable Ringling Art Museum, 5401 Bayshore Road Free with $30 admission; Mondays free Visit Ringling.org.

Aficionados of Native American art often have to travel to places such as Washington, D.C., Phoenix and Santa Fe to see contemporary work. The Ringling has recently been bringing more visibility to contemporary Native American art, first with its 2023 show, “Reclaiming Home,” showcasing members of Florida tribes, and now with “Ancestral Edge” featuring nine female artists from across the U.S.

TUESDAY

‘ART DECO: THE GOLDEN AGE OF ILLUSTRATION’

10 a.m. at the Sarasota Art Museum campus of Ringling College, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail Free for museum members; $20 Visit SarasotaArtMuseum.org.

The Sarasota Art Museum celebrates the 100th anniversary of the exposition that kicked off the Art Deco movement. More than 100 eyecatching posters from the Crouse Collection, as well as industrial furniture, home furnishings and other objects loaned by the WilsonianFlorida International University are on display. In addition to consumer products, there are posters for automobiles, train and ocean travel, as well as sports competitions, reflecting a growing love of speed and luxury in spite of the Great Depression. Through March 29, 2026.

The Arts Advocates Gallery inside the Crossings at Siesta Key mall is open every Saturday from 2-4 pm featuring the works of Sarasota Colony artists, the Florida Highwaymen, and changing monthly exhibits.

Talkback Tuesday Carrie Seidman - Voices That Shape Sarasota: Journalism, Justice, and Local Truths

October 7, 4-6 pm

Arts Advocates Gallery

Carrie hosts WSLR’s Talk of the Town, a live weekly roundtable featuring politicians, activists, journalists, and scholars discussing local issues. She is a seasoned journalist who has been a staff writer for The New York Times and the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, among others.

Luncheon

How Theater Artistic Directors are Navigating Cultural and Funding Challenges

October 16, 11 am-1 pm Sarasota Yacht Club

Jay Handelman moderates a panel of leading artistic directors – Richard Hopkins, Nate Jacobs, Carole Kleinberg, Peter Rothstein, and Summer Wallace – in a discussion of how they are meeting the challenge of providing funds for their organizations.

at

www.instagram.com/observergroup

YOUR NEIGHBORS

Challahday cheer

Bakers share family memories for Rosh Hashanah.

DANA KAMPA STAFF WRITER

Sylvia Pastor has one simple philosophy when it comes to the kitchen: If you can read, you can bake.

Some bakers may have more natural talent and experience than others when it comes to interpreting a recipe card, but everyone was welcome to a free challah baking workshop on Sept. 18 at Temple Beth Israel in celebration of the new year.

Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year many people celebrate with a variety of traditions, often including a feast featuring a round challah loaf.

Rabbi Howard Simon teamed up with Sylvia Pastor’s husband, Irwin, to make their loaves, and he explained that challah can come in several forms.

Bakers often make a simple threebraid rectangular loaf. But New Year breads tend to be more intricate, perhaps featuring five braids and pressed into a circular shape to reference the cyclical nature of the seasons. According to the individual’s taste, they may also have raisins, sesame seeds and other inclusions.

Attendees prepped plain round loaves to take home and bake, after sharing challah-making stories.

Sylvia Pastor, Rabbi Jessica Spit alnic Mates and fellow temple lead ers organized the workshop, where attendees had the opportunity to work in pairs to craft their six-ingre dient dough balls. Clouds of flour puffed into the air as they pounded the dough, bartered for measuring cups and teaspoons with table mates and called for hot water to wake up the yeast.

While they worked away, they swapped stories about growing up enjoying challah.

Kelli Veit fondly recalled her mother baking a Friday morning and evening loaf every week to feed the whole family.

“She’d wake up at the crack of dawn, and by the time I went down to the kitchen for breakfast, there would be two chal lahs,” she said. “Lat

er on in the day, if I happened to open the oven, I would find a little ball of dough that was burnt at the bottom of the oven. I asked her about it once or twice, and she always said it was tradition.”

Sarasota resident Sylvia Saba shared similar warm memories.

“My mom, Marie, is an expert in this. She would make it every Friday for Shabbat. Hers tastes amazing. Mine is, mmm,” she said with a chuckle. Her personal favorite is a simple egg wash with crunchy sesame seeds on top.

The Pastors have been Longboat Key residents for more than 20 years. They moved from Buffalo, New York, after starting a family that has grown to include 16 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Now on Longboat Key, Sylvia Pastor serves as co-chair of the temple’s sisterhood group, Beth Israel Women. She expresses her love for neighboring friends with her baking talents.

“I’ve loved to cook since I was born,” she said. “My mom says I

must have come out of her womb with a wooden spoon.”

She enjoys crafting baked goods of all sorts, including rugelach and lemon pound cake, and even some traditional Italian cookies and Greek baked goods.

While sharing her cooking with others, she jokes that sometimes the only problem is they eat the treats too quickly.

“It’s always worth the time it takes to make them, though,” she said. “I like to see everyone’s smiles.” Mates said she looks forward to hosting another challah workshop with residents returning later in the season on Jan. 6, ahead of her Jan. 9-10 installation. It was one event she mentioned in her interview to be TBI’s new rabbi that she would like to bring to the Longboat community.

“This is something we haven’t done before, and it’s something I love to do,” Mates said. “I’m honored that people came out to see something I think is really important, accessible and easy. It’s a great icebreaker too.”

MAKE YOUR OWN CHALLAH

1. Mix yeast, sugar and warm water together in a small bowl. Let stand 10 minutes. The mixture will start to bubble.

2. Meanwhile, in a large mixing bowl, mix eggs, salt, sugar, oil and 4 cups flour together. Add yeast mixture to flour mixture.

3. Add 1 ½ cups of flour to mixture. Dough should start to form a ball, separating from the bowl.

4. Place dough on a floured surface & knead, lifting up with one hand and then the other. Knead at least 5 minutes as dough becomes increasingly elastic. If still sticky, add a bit more flour. Dough should form into a ball.

5. Place dough back into oiled bowl, cover & place bowl somewhere warm for 1-1½ hours to rise, doubling in volume.

6. Preheat oven to 375°F. Remove cover from bowl, place dough on floured surface. Take a small piece (size of an egg), double wrap in plastic wrap and set aside.

7. Punch out dough one more time. Cut dough in half, one for each challah. Then divide each half into three equal pieces. Roll out each piece, crimp together at the top and braid into a loaf. Place on a greased cookie sheet. Repeat with second half of dough. May let rise again at this step.

8. Paint each challah with a mixture made of egg yolk plus a little water.

9. Bake 25-30 minutes or until bread rises & is golden brown. Remove, cool.

10. Place challah on platter, cover and wait for Shabbat dinner. Eat and enjoy!

Joint effort to help homeless

DANA KAMPA STAFF WRITER

Financial challenges can overwhelm anyone, and when they do, one Sarasota-based day center is there to help people get back up on their feet.

Joe Reuth, who joined Resurrection House as the new executive director in June, spoke to members of Longboat Island Chapel for the latest Gather and Give charity drive on Sept. 16.

The multidenominational group helps people, particularly those who are homeless, get the resources they need, be it a hot shower, fresh clothes, food or similar support.

“We are a community effort at Resurrection House, and we rely on all of you in order to take care of people in the margins,” he said.

Reuth said residents may be surprised to learn that a quarter of the people Resurrection House helps are 60 years or older and homeless.

“We had a lady come in the other day who was 77 years old, and she’s sleeping on the streets,” he said.

He explained, “We have people who are ‘working poor,’ who don’t make enough money to live on. A lot of people are living off of social security or disability, which is bringing in about $1,200 to $1,300 a month. That is not enough for them to survive in Sarasota or Longboat Key.”

The faith-based organization has operated from its current location since 1993. The six founding churches were Church of the Redeemer, First United Methodist Church, First Presbyterian Church, First Congregational UCC Church, Grace Fellowship and Vision Church of Sarasota. He said they were motivated to form Resurrection House in 1989, not only to help those in need but also to improve the area for the community as a whole.

“We started with one room in The Salvation Army that they loaned to us,” he said. “We had a washer and dryer outside, and we did laundry for them and had a shower for them. That’s how we got started.” Now, the organization has expand-

ed, serving more than 1,000 unique individuals last year.

“On a typical day, we’ll have anywhere between 75 and 110 people come through our doors,” he said. “The day after Labor Day, we had our busiest day in five years, with 119 people coming through the doors.”

An in-house doctor treats minor ailments, and the facility offers dental consultations and provides legal and spiritual guidance.

Reuth noted operations are supported solely through the community, not from government funding.

It is truly a people-powered endeavor. He said only six staff positions, including his, are paid. Otherwise, the undertaking is made possible through the approximately 130 volunteers — many coming from the 30 churches involved in the area — who share their time.

It’s only through their support that the day center can keep going, Reuth said. Even though expenses frequently outpace revenue, they manage to always close the gap.

That line continues to get harder to walk, though, as Reuth noted the need for services recently increased by 20%.

Community members give their support in numerous ways, including the stylists who donate haircuts for those who need them.

Resurrection House welcomes volunteers and donations of food and hygienic items, particularly shampoo. But financial support is especially valuable, especially considering the property has some of the highest water and electricity bills in the city to power its near continuously running washing machines and showers.

He said their services are especially needed because Manatee County residents can seek emergency overnight shelter from the local arm of The Salvation Army. However, he said Sarasota County residents don’t have an equivalent service.

“A lot of the people we help are scared and don’t know where their next meal is coming from,” he said.

“They don’t know how they’re going to get clean or where they’re going

Resurrection House and Longboat Island Chapel gather donations for those who are living on the streets.

WHAT TO KNOW

to go to the bathroom. They don’t know how they’re going to replace the clothing that they have on. They don’t know where they’re going to get medical care. We offer all those services at no charge.”

Though he is relatively new to the role, Reuth said he has already been blown away by the displays of kind ness he’s seen at Resurrection House.

“It’s a lot of effort, but it’s so rewarding,” he said. “One of the things I do every day is serve the meal, and I can’t tell you how many people say ‘God bless you’ and ‘thank you,’ genuinely, as you hand them the food.”

Looking to the future, Reuth said the organization hopes to make a dif ference helping people who have been homeless for more than a year.

In addition to the men’s clothes and tennis shoes Longboat Island Chapel congregation members donated on Sept. 16, they also made

Meet Our New Pulmonology Specialists

a $3,000 monetary donation. The drive continues through the end of September. Community

Resurrection House is located at 507 Kumquat Court, Sarasota. Hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. To learn more about services or volunteer opportunities, visit ResurrectionHouseSarasota. org or call 941-365-3759.

Resurrection House is collecting men’s clothing items, tennis shoes, blankets and other items to share with those in need.

First Physicians Group is proud to introduce two new critical care pulmonologists: Dr. Haares Mirzan and Dr. Evan Wasserman.

Fellowship trained in Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, Dr. Mirzan and Dr. Wasserman specialize in diseases and conditions affecting the lungs and airways. They both treat a wide range of respiratory issues including asthma, bronchitis, bronchiectasis, COPD, cystic fibrosis, emphysema, interstitial lung disease, lung cancer, mesothelioma, pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary vascular disease, pleural effusion and sarcoidosis.

Haares Mirzan, MD

Specialty:

Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine

Medical School: B oston University School of Medicine & College of Arts and Sciences in Boston, MA

Residency & Fellowship: Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education in Jacksonville, FL

Evan Wasserman, DO

Specialty: Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine

Medical School: Nova Southeastern University Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Fort Lauderdale, FL

Residency: University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT

Fellowship: University of South Florida, Tampa, FL

Sharp minds, long life

Three highlights the Education Center will offer on its list of 202526 events.

ith

for the cavalcade of events in the 2025-26 season, there are three standouts at The Education Center will host.

Located at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, the center’s program director, Susan Goldfarb, said there are plenty of new events to look forward to, along with new lectures led by longtime favorite speakers.

There are three Longboat Key residents should take advantage of:

n The Manatee County Falls Prevention Coalition will offer a free prevention workshop and health screenings on Nov. 20. This session takes place from 10 a.m. to noon and will offer practical strategies for maintaining independence through strength and balance. Registration is requested.

“Once you fall at a certain age,

HOW TO REGISTER

Registration is required for all lectures at The Education Center at Temple Beth Israel. Events are open to all and discounted for members. Visit TBIEducationCenter.org for the full catalog of courses and for online registration. Otherwise, those interested can register:

n By phone at 941-383-8222

n By mail with form included in the brochure, with checks made out to “The Education Center at Temple Beth Israel” mailed to 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key, Florida 34228

n By email to Admin@TBIEducationCenter.org, though credit card information should not be included; add a phone number to later pay by credit card.

n In person from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays starting Oct. 13; a secure dropbox is located outside.

Dana Kampa

Temple Beth Israel’s Rabbi Jessica Spitalnic Mates and The Education Center Program Director Susan Goldfarb share their excitement for this year’s lineup of classes and events.

it’s serious,” Goldfarb said while explaining why the center wanted to offer the class for free.

n Rabbi Jessica Spitalnic Mates is set to host a program of her own on March 5. She is an admirer and friend of the late artist Nathan Hilu, who boldly portrays his experience guarding top Nazi war criminals during the Nuremberg Trials. She is leading a presentation of a documentary, “Nathan-ism,” on which she was a consultant.

The evening will feature a showing of the film, a discussion led by Mates, a viewing of some of his original works, and a reception at 3:45 p.m.

n The center is also welcoming leaders from fellow on-island religious organizations. The Rev. Kenneth Blyth from St. Armands Key Lutheran Church is visiting on March 10 to lead a talk titled, “The Christian Origins of Antisemitism.”

A question-and-answer session will follow.

ONLINE

View the 2026 Lecture Series dates at YourObserver.com.

IT’S READ EVERYWHERE

Headed on a trip? Snap a photo of you on vacation holding your Observer, then submit your photo at YourObserver.com/ ItsReadEverywhere for a chance to win a $500 cash prize and help a local nonprofit!

GRAND BAY IV

Furnished

DO YOU REALLY KNOW HOW YOUR INVESTMENTS ARE PERFORMING?

What your financial statements might not be telling you and how to finally get clarity.

The headlines are enough to make anyone uneasy: volatile markets, rising interest rates, international conflict, and new tariffs on the horizon. In a climate like this, even experienced investors are left asking, “Am I still on track?”

Then the quarterly statement arrives. You flip through pages of numbers, charts, and unfamiliar terms and still walk away without clear answers. What did you actually earn last quarter? Were any fees taken out? How does this compare to the market? And maybe most importantly: Is my retirement plan still on track? If you’ve ever felt uncertain or even overwhelmed by your investment statements, you’re not alone.

“Far too often, investors receive complex, jargon-filled statements that don’t tell them what they really want to know: Am I growing my wealth? What did this cost me? And is someone actually looking out for me?” said Ryan Thompson, Vice President at JL Bainbridge.

Located in the heart of Sarasota for over 40 years, JL Bainbridge is offering a confidential free financial review, no cost and no obligation, to help individuals and families better understand their current investments and overall financial health.

HIDDEN FEES & MURKY REPORTING

Many investors don’t realize how fees quietly eat into their returns. Some are buried in fund expense ratios, others are tacked on as advisory fees or trading costs. Without full transparency, it’s easy to think you’re earning more than you actually are.

“You could be paying thousands in hidden fees every year and not know it,” Thompson warns. “Our goal is to help you clearly see what it’s costing, and whether or not it’s aligned with your goals.”

A SECOND SET OF EYESFOR FREE

Whether you already work with an adviser or have been managing things

on your own, JLB’s free financial review offers a second opinion. Their fiduciary team walks through your current portfolio, explains how to read performance data, and identifies any red flags from overpriced funds to overly risky allocations. And they do it in plain English, not financial jargon so you can fully understand how your investments are performing - without feeling embarrassed or confused.

WHO SHOULD TAKE ADVANTAGE?

If any of the following apply to you, a review might be well worth your time:

• You’re unsure what your current investment performance actually is You want to know if your fees are fair or excessive

• You haven’t reviewed your retirement timeline in a while

• You want a confidential second opinion on how your portfolio is structured

You want more clarity, more confidence, and less confusion

Whether you’re just getting started or have a healthy portfolio, JL Bainbridge believes every investor deserves clarity because after all, it’s your money and you deserve to understand it.

YOUR CALENDAR

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 1 LORD’S WAREHOUSE REOPENS

9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Lord’s Warehouse, 6140 Gulf of Mexico Drive. The thrift shop reopens after closing for deep cleaning this past month. It is open Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays through April. Call 941383-4738 with questions.

RECURRING EVENTS

MONDAYS

STRETCH AND STRENGTHEN

10-11 a.m. at Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive. This Paradise Center class is mostly seated and great for all fitness levels. The focus is on strength training and flexibility for balance. Bring light hand weights if desired. Fee is $20 for drop-ins or a membership through the end of the year; new class pass option for 10 classes for $175. Walk-ins welcome. Call 941383-6493.

THINKING OUT LOUD

1:30-2:30 p.m. at Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Mike Karp with The Paradise Center moderates a lively discussion group on everything from world affairs to local news. Call 941-383-6493.

MONDAYS AND FRIDAYS

TAI CHI

Noon to 1 p.m. Mondays and 10-11 a.m. Fridays at Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Practice tai chi with instructor Reuben Fernandez from The Paradise Center. Beginner friendly. Fee is $20 for drop-ins or a membership through the end of the year; new class pass option for 10 classes for $175. Call 941-383-6493.

TUESDAYS AND FRIDAYS

LONGBOAT LIBRARY

10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 555 Bay Isles Road. Call 941-383-6493.

TUESDAYS 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 story-time beginning at 10:30 a.m. and other services available from 10-11:30 a.m.

BEST BET

MONDAY, SEPT. 29

PARADISE CENTER UNVEILING 9:15 a.m. at Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive. The Paradise Center plans to hold a full morning of activities for its grand reopening. Following the ceremony, there will be a 10 a.m. stretch and strengthen class, 11:15 a.m. guided meditation, noon Tai Chi and 1:30 p.m. Thinking Out Loud discussion group. Visit TheParadiseCenter.org for updates.

MAHJONG 1-3 p.m. at Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Seasoned mahjong players can join a weekly, prearranged game at The Paradise Center with a noncompetitive atmosphere. RSVP required. Email Amy@TheParadiseCenter.org or call 941-383-6493.

THURSDAYS JUST DANCE!

10-11 a.m. at Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Instructor Debbie White from The Paradise Center leads an easy-tofollow, cardio-focused dance class. Fee is $20 for drop-ins or a membership through the end of the year; new class pass option for 10 classes for $175. Call 941-383-6493.

SATURDAYS RUN CLUB

7 a.m. at Sips coffee shop, 6830 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Join this newly formed 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.

Palazzi Al Mare condo tops week’s sales at $4.85 million

ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR

Thomas and Jane Freeman, of Sarasota, sold their Unit A condominium at 361 Benjamin Franklin Drive to David Laha and Susan Laha, trustees, of Leawood, Kansas, for $4.85 million. Built in 2010, it has four bedrooms, four-and-two-half baths, a pool and 5,405 square feet of living area. It sold for $3.3 million in 2018.

BAY ISLES

David and Catherine Wilt, of Sarasota, sold their home at 3272 Bayou Road to Marek Siwy, of

for $2.05 million. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two-anda-half baths, a pool and 2,954 square feet of living area. It sold for $900,000 in 2015.

LONGBOAT KEY TOWERS

Chun Liu, trustee, of Manhasset, New York, sold the Unit N-602 condominium at 603 Longboat Club Road to Derek and Laura Snell and Benjamin Cameron Ford, of

Austin Michael Monin, trustees, sold the Unit 202 condominium at 4600 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Sea Kay One LLC for $520,000. Built in 1975, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,312 square feet of living area. It sold for $500,000 in 2021.

transactions at

A Century Old Story

A story that began over 100 years ago and is still being written today. Once a beloved landmark, now an enduring icon reborn. Mira Mar is the future of luxury living in Sarasota, grounded in the grandeur of its past, and offering an unparalleled residential experience in the heart of downtown.

One of Sarasota’s few remaining flagships of the great Florida Land Boom of the 1920’s, it is with great pride that we restore the Mira Mar to it’s rightful place as a gleaming icon of Sarasota.

Rising elegantly above South Palm Avenue, the revived and resplendent Mira Mar presents a limited collection of 70 estate-style residences across two 18-story towers. Each home is designed to the highest standards, with sweeping views, refined interiors, and private access to best-in-class amenities.

Mira Mar is more than a residence — it’s a return to grace.

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

FORECAST

MOON PHASES

TIDES

Painting