U.S. Marine Corps veterans from Sarasota and Manatee counties gathered for the 22nd consecutive year Sunday for their annual luncheon at Marina Jack to celebrate the anniversary of the founding of the Marines 249 years ago. One of the traditions at each Marine birthday celebration is the cutting of the cake. The oldest attendee cuts the cake and gives the first piece to the youngest attendee. For the second consecutive year, David Beliles, the oldest attendee at age 94, did the honors. He gave the first piece to Brian Loebker, 39, an infantry Marine veteran and lance corporal who served from 2002-2005.
Beliles was a sergeant during the Korean War; he lives at Plymouth Harbor. Loebker resides in Sarasota.
Veterans Day at Longboat Harbour
Longboaters will always band together to honor the brave veterans in our community.
So when Veterans Day was a couple of weeks away, Longboat Harbour resident Karen Pashkow thought, “How can we honor our veterans in a fun way?”
After speaking with her neighbors, they came up with a movie night. With that in mind, the majority voted to watch the 1970 comedy classic, “M*A*S*H.”
Forty people attended the movie screening at 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 11 in the Longboat Harbour Rec Hall. Pashkow provided popcorn, candy and drinks to snack on during the film.
A pine dilemma
Observer staff
Beliles, 94, and Brian Loebker, 39.
Courtesy image
Bob Geraci, John Shea and David Driscoll
Carter Weinhofer
Asst. Chief Martin Szalbirak awards Firefighter Paramedic David Oliger, Firefighter Paramedic Tirso Guerrero and Lt. Daniel Heath with a Phoenix Award.
WEEK OF NOV. 14, 2024
BY THE NUMBERS
4
6
n
“What we want to achieve is bring some joy and some recovery and sense of community.”
Assistant to the Town Manager Susan Phillips on welcoming back Longboat Key’s snowbirds Read more on page 18
Siesta Beach holiday run set for Dec. 14
The 48th annual Sandy Claws Beach Run on Siesta Beach, a popular longtime holiday event in Sarasota County, has been scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 14. Register by Nov. 22 to get the best price, in addition to runner swag and a long-sleeve performance shirt.
This festive event attracts hundreds of runners, walkers and joggers and is sponsored by Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources along with Friends of Sarasota County Parks, Boucher Broth-
ers, Dr. Heidi K. Anderson-DOCS and Eager Beaver.
The event includes a chiptimed 5K race and a one-mile fun run.
The 5K Race is chip-timed, with finisher medals for all; awards are given to the top six finishers in each age group.
All participants are encouraged to dress up and enjoy music, food and raffle prizes post-race.
The 5K is part of the Manasota Track Club fall racing series, and proceeds benefit the “Summer in the Parks”
Adopt-A-Camper scholarship program.
Early Packet Pickup will be Thursday, Dec. 12, 3-6 p.m. at New Balance Sarasota, 1872 Stickney Point Road.
The one-mile fun run starts at 8 a.m., and the 5K begins at 8:20 a.m. at Siesta Beach, 948 Beach Road, Sarasota.
Costume contest winners and race awards will be announced around 9:15 a.m.
For more information and registration, visit the race website or call 311 or 941-861-5000.
FEMA application deadline approaching
The deadline to apply for federal assistance for sustained loss from Hurricane Helene is Wednesday, Nov. 27.
Homeowners and renters in Sarasota County with losses from Hurricane Helene may be eligible for FEMA financial assistance for displacement, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured or underinsured disastercaused expenses.
The quickest way to apply is to go online. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll free at 800-621-3362.
For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit FEMA’s website. Follow FEMA on X or on Facebook.
Residents with damage from Hurricane Milton still have a bit more time to apply. The application deadline for Milton is Dec. 11. The deadline for Hurricane Debby was Nov. 12.
Market on LBK returns in December
Next month, Longboat Key residents will be able to enjoy another return to normal.
December 2 will be the first date of The Market on Longboat Key of the season, which will return to the Town Center Green (600 Bay Isles Road). The market is held on the first and third Monday of every month from December to April. Last season marked the return of The Market on Longboat Key after it took a year-long hiatus due to construction on the Town Center Green. In past markets, local vendors like Sarasota Honey Co., Siesta Key Rum and Oh Yeah Pet Treats set up shop on Longboat Key. This season’s dates will be: Dec. 2 and 16; Jan. 6 and 20; Feb. 3 and 17; March 3 and 17; and April 7 and 21. For more information, contact market organizer Nancy Ambrose at 941-289-4141.
“I want people to know that when they come back and they don’t see that tree, it’s not my fault. I didn’t take that tree down.”
Sherry Nikolich,Buttonwood Drive resident
Safety concern forces removal of eagles’ tree
The tree on Buttonwood Drive that houses an eagle’s nest may now pose a threat to a homeowner’s property from storm damage.
CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER
Some Longboat Key residents know the tree. The tall slash pine that sticks out above Buttonwood Drive.
In the middle of the tree’s canopy: a bald eagle nest.
Buttonwood Drive resident Sherry Nikolich said she likely has more pictures on her phone of the bald eagles in her backyard than she does of her kids.
That’s how much the family of bald eagles has meant to her since she moved into her home on Buttonwood Drive. When she first purchased the home in 2017 before moving to the island full time in 2020, she was notified an eagle nest was in a tree in her backyard.
She was thrilled.
Over the years, she built a connection with the eagles. She watched them add to their nest every year and raise their young.
“That’s family out there. Those are my birds,” Nikolich said. “I take people for tours in my backyard.”
Like most of her neighbors on Buttonwood Drive, Nikolich is recovering from Hurricanes Helene and Milton. While repairing her home from flood damage, she found out that her neighbor was granted a permit to take down the tree that houses the bald eagle nest because of the hurricanes.
The tree that holds the nest is rooted in Nikolich’s backyard, but the main branch leans over her
neighbor’s property on Triton Bend, which is behind Nikolich’s property.
According to Nikolich, her neighbor, Mark Saine, applied for a permit to remove the main branch because he was worried the branch could fall and damage his house.
Saine’s name is listed on the permit issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service that allows him to remove the tree and disturb the eagle nest under certain conditions.
Saine declined to comment for this story.
‘UNFORTUNATE SCENARIO’
Nikolich said the tree has always leaned over Saine’s property in this way.
That may be the case, but local arborist Jacob Gilliam, with Jacob Gilliam Tree Care, said this tree now poses a high risk of falling on Saine’s property and causing damage.
Gilliam is a certified arborist through the International Society of Arboriculture. He’s also qualified to perform tree risk assessments through the American National Standards Institute.
The risk assessment was conducted on Oct. 29 for the tree with Longboat’s eagles and consists of three main questions: How likely is the tree to fall? How likely is it to hit a target if it falls? And how much damage will it cause?
Given how much the tree leans and how much protection it lost from the recent hurricanes, Gilliam concluded the tree should be removed.
“I think any arborist will argue it will cause significant damage. It’s a large tree,” Gilliam said.
While he recommends the tree be cut in this situation, that isn’t always the case. Gilliam wants people to know that arborists often are in the business of helping people preserve trees and thinking about best landscaping practices.
the proper bald eagle nest take permit through the USFWS.
“Eagle nests are protected from take under the Eagle Act, so anytime an eagle has built, maintained or used a nest, it is considered an eagle nest and can only be lawfully removed with a permit,” Kirkpatrick said in an email to the Observer.
According to Kirkpatrick, there are many different reasons a person could apply for an eagle nest take, or removal. This includes “human health and safety removal,” which is the reasoning behind Saine’s permit.
To receive a permit for this reason, the applicant would need to answer application questions, certify there is a justifiable reason for take that is unavoidable and include an arborist’s report.
“I don’t want anyone to make me out as a tree killer,” Gilliam said. “Half of the business is preservation.”
After the recent hurricanes, some trees and other vegetation that surrounded the nest tree were impacted. For example, one tree that stood in front of the tree was bent at almost a 90-degree angle.
These surrounding trees acted as a natural barrier and strengthened the slash pine. Now, without the supporting vegetation, Gilliam said the large nest tree is more susceptible to falling from wind.
Gilliam said the situation isn’t ideal with the tree holding an eagle nest, but he strongly believes the tree now poses a risk of damaging property without having those supporting structures.
“I agree that it is an unfortunate scenario. I would like that tree to be standing straight up and down,” he said.
Sometimes, arborists can use supplemental support to keep a tree from leaning too far and damaging property. Most of the time, though, it’s a losing battle. Gilliam said there’s a contradiction in using supplemental support — spending time and money to keep a tree upright while admitting that the tree can’t hold its weight and would eventually need to be removed.
A job like this one for the Buttonwood tree will take Gilliam a few hours to remove the tree. The permit he holds is to cut the tree down to the fence line.
PROPER PERMITTING
According to the USFWS, bald eagles are protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. These acts regulate how people can interact with these species.
This includes a bald eagle “take,” which is defined as means to pursue, shoot, shoot at, poison, wound, kill, capture, trap, collect, destroy, molest or disturb a bald eagle, according to Ulgonda Kirkpatrick with the USFWS Migratory Bird & Eagle Permit Office.
The same protections are given to bald eagle nests, and the homeowner whose property is in danger acquired
While it may sometimes be possible to move an eagle’s nest to a different location, that is not best practice by USFWS standards.
“Generally, it is not the preferred option. Bald eagles will often rebuild their nest in their preferred location. Unless nesting options are severely limited or it is a unique situation (pulling an active nest off of an unsafe structure), we would want the birds to rebuild their nest where they prefer to do so,” Kirkpatrick said in an email.
After a nest is removed, the permit applicant would need to ensure it is properly destroyed. This can be done by burying, burdening or mulching the nest. No part of the nest can lawfully be kept, according to Kirkpatrick.
Bald eagle breeding season is Oct. 1 to May 30. According to The Raptor Rescue Project, males may court mates by bringing food gifts and vocalizing together. Bald eagles then prepare nests together and perch together.
Nikolich said recently the eagles have been noisy and she has seen them bringing materials to the nest. She believes they are in the mating routine.
Typically, the bald eagle egg-laying period ensues around December and January. It’s because of this that Gilliam said USFWS advised them to remove the nest sooner rather than later. If an eagle lays an egg in the nest, or if there are juvenile eagles in the nest, the nest cannot be disturbed.
Despite the likely removal of the nest, Kirkpatrick said the eagles may choose to stay close by.
“Eagles are quite territorial and will generally remain within their territory (one-and-a-half- to twomile radius) whenever a nest is lost,” Kirkpatrick said in the email. “Biologically, it would be best to take the nest as quickly as possible.”
Nikolich said she tried to appeal to her neighbor to allow the eagles one more mating season before removing the tree and trying supplemental support in the interim.
On Monday, Gilliam arrived at Nikolich’s property, ready to remove the tree. A proper permit to disturb the nest was already granted by the USFWS, and his assessment determined the tree is at high risk of damaging property.
Nikolich was angry, as were other neighbors who stuck by her side, and called the police. The Longboat Key Police Department responded and asked the tree service to shut down operations for the day until the department could verify the permits through the town’s Planning, Zoning and Building Department — which was closed because of the federal holiday.
She also posted on social media to spread the word to other residents, and she received many comments on Facebook. Many full-time and part-time residents voiced their love for the eagles and a desire to protect them.
“I want people to know that when they come back and they don’t see
I didn’t
that tree, it’s not my fault.
take that tree down,” Nikolich said.
Photos by Carter Weinhofer
A juvenile eagle (left) sits in the nest with one of its parents in February.
One tree that used to stand straight in front of the eagle’s tree now lays at nearly a 90-degree angle.
One of the Buttonwood Drive eagles carries nest material to the nest in February.
The slash pine leans from the backyard of one property to another.
Hey, snowbirds!
Here’s what you missed during the 2024 offseason
Two major hurricanes topped everything, but other town news, like major planned infrastructure projects and the St. Regis opening, still kept town staff and reporters busy.
The island may look a bit different for snowbirds returning to Longboat Key after this summer, so pardon the dust.
Over the summer, three major hurricanes left their marks on Longboat Key. The two most recent — Helene and Milton — left many Longboat Key properties flooded and filled with debris.
Although the town is still recovering from these two events, the community persevered. Local businesses picked up the pieces and pushed to get open for locals and visitors.
While the hurricanes have been dominating the page space in the last month, other town news before the hurricanes was still plentiful.
This included a day the entire town talked about for years: the opening of the St. Regis Longboat Key.
The town commission took a short recess, as it always does, but worked hard before and after the recess to plan and foster debate for major infrastructure projects.
Here are some of the top news stories from this summer to catch up those who were away.
Observer
First was Hurricane Helene ... Shocking.
a common word used to describe many people’s first reactions while driving along Gulf of Mexico Drive after Hurricane Helene. Piles of debris, appliances and sand were common sights along GMD in the weeks after Helene.
The storm made landfall on Sept. 26, and its main impact to Longboat Key came from the high storm surge. Some residents reported three to five feet of water intrusion in their homes.
This amount of water flooded many in Longboat’s low-lying areas like Buttonwood, Sleepy Lagoon and the Village. Many homeowners tried to get back to the island as quickly as possible to begin ripping out
drywall and start restoration. The town followed a tiered re-entry protocol after Helene, which resulted in residents being allowed back the following Sunday, Sept. 29. According to estimates from the town of Longboat Key, about 2,200 properties in town were damaged by Hurricane Helene, which resulted in $176 million worth of damage. Some homes, like beachfront properties along Gulfside Road, were almost completely destroyed.
Longboat Key residents and officials didn’t have much time to take a breath, though, as another hurricane formed in the Gulf of Mexico.
Email press releases, announcements and Letters to the Editor to: Kat Wingert, kwingert@yourobserver.com TO ADVERTISE
3 WAYS TO SUBSCRIBE
1. FREE HOME DELIVERY: The Longboat Observers offers free home delivery to singlefamily homes on Longboat Key, Bird Key, St. Armands Key and Lido Shore. The Longboat Observer also delivers to every condominium, resort and commercial building on Longboat Key.
2. MAIL DELIVERY SUBSCRIPTION RATES
Standard First-Class Canada
One year / $95 One year / $200 One year / $250
Six months / $76 Six months / $160 Six months / $200
Three months / $61 Three months / $128 Three months / $160
To subscribe: Please call Donna Condon at 941-366-3468, Ext. 301 or email dcondon@yourobserver.com
3. NEWSPAPER APP: Access your weekly Observer paper, anytime, anywhere with our Print Edition app. You can read page to page, section to section like a newspaper on your
Display Advertising: To obtain information, call 941-366-3468, Ext. 319. 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. PUBLIC NOTICES
The 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.
INFORMATION
Verified Council 12166 Old Big Bend Road, Suite 210 | St Louis, MO 63122 314-966-7111 | www.cvcaudit.com
US
Image courtesy of Matthew Ballew
...
came Hurricane Milton
It seemed like Longboat Key couldn’t catch a break.
About a week after Hurricane Helene, another hurricane had its eye set on Longboat Key. Hurricane Milton’s track seemed to predict it being a Category 4 hurricane with a direct hit on the island.
This prediction included up to 15 feet of storm surge for Longboat Key.
Town officials were worried as it drew closer, but the system weakened before making landfall near Siesta Key. Still, the 100 mph gusts of wind caused more vegetative debris and structural damage on Longboat.
Milton hit the region on Oct. 9, and town officials opened up the island for reentry on Oct. 11. This time, the town didn’t follow a phased reentry and instead opened the island up to everyone at the same time.
When residents returned, it was time to clean up again and add to the growing piles of debris. Water, wastewater and electricity took a few days to be fully operational again.
In the weeks after Milton, the state responded by sending crews to clean up GMD, which is a state-owned highway. The state and Florida Department of Transportation was responsible for cleaning up debris along GMD.
Police officers from agencies like MiamiDade and Biscayne Park responded to a request made by the Longboat Key Police Department through the Florida Police Chiefs Association. These extra officers were asked to help deter scavengers and direct traffic for dump trucks sent for debris cleanup.
At
The petition, submitted on Jan. 16, required the town to conduct a feasibility study within six months of its submission. If the petition would have been approved, then Jewish Key would have become a part of unincorporated Manatee County.
According to property owners on Jewfish Key, the reasons behind the petition included evaluating the amount of taxes paid versus services received from the town and opposition to the town’s short-term rental restrictions. After residents heard about the potential for Jewfish Key to be de-annexed from the town, many north-end commu-
At times, 40 dump trucks were working on the island, which caused some traffic delays through the rest of October and into early November.
Despite Helene’s flooding and Milton’s strong winds, Longboat Key businesses were eager to reopen and welcome locals back. Throughout the island, a sense of community was one positive that many took way from the summer of storms.
nities voiced their opposition. Town staff estimated more than 267 residents submitted signatures throughout various petitions in opposition of the de-annexation.
A first public hearing was set for June 3, which lasted mere minutes.
That’s because, days before, on May 31, the Jewfish Key Preservation Association — which submitted the original petition — retracted the petition. The six-month feasibility study cost the town about $80,000, including outside legal assistance and extra staff hours.
“While no reason was given for the withdrawal, it’s my sincere hope that — having reviewed the extensive study prepared by the town, our staff’s analysis of that study and the overwhelming opposition — the petitioners saw the wisdom of terminating this matter and remaining a part of our community as they have been since its founding in 1955,” Mayor Ken Schneier said at the June 3 hearing.
So, for now, Jewfish Key will remain a part of Longboat Key.
St. Regis starts new legacy
The day arrived at last for the St. Regis Longboat Key.
After nearly a decade of legal struggles, development departures and planning the five-star resort, the St. Regis Longboat Key held an unveiling ceremony on Aug. 16. With the ceremony, the resort ushered in a soft-opening phase that continued until Hurricanes Helene and Milton caused a short closure.
The resort marks the largest capital investment on Longboat Key in decades. Residences at the St. Regis Longboat Key were sold out before construction was completed, and a recently closed $21 million sale broke the island’s highest sale record.
Beyond the valet service and unique welcome bar mural is the heart of the resort, complete with a lazy river and multiple pools that offer poolside butler service.
Two resident Aldabra tortoises, about 2,800 tropical fish and 50 stingrays give guests unique wildlife experiences. Around the resort are also multiple dining options, including the high-end C.W. Prime for seafood and steak, and the Riva provides guests with an Italian experience.
General Manager Winfred van Workum welcomed Longboat Key residents to visit the resort in numerous stories published previously by the Observer. He’s said he wants the St. Regis to be like a “living room,” where residents can meet up and socialize over drinks or food.
The St. Regis Longboat Key looks to create its own legacy on the land that was once The Colony Beach & Tennis Resort. The Colony and its operator, Dr. Murray “Murf” Klauber helped put Longboat Key on the map, and van Workum hopes the St. Regis can blend that rich history with its own legacy.
Jewfish Key De-annexation (then retraction)
Carter Weinhofer
Image courtesy of Matthew Ballew
Image courtesy of Brad Meece
Longboat Pass Bridge debate
The discussion about alternative builds for the Longboat Pass Bridge began in March before many residents left for the summer.
To briefly recap, the Florida Department of Transportation presented the community with three build alternatives to replace the Longboat Pass Bridge: a low-level bascule bridge, a midlevel bascule bridge and a high fixed-span bridge.
From the start, residents and town leaders disapproved of the high fixed-span bridge, which would have been 78 feet high. Many said it was not in keeping with the town’s character.
Over the summer, discussions continued and the town commission formally recommended the midlevel bascule bridge to the FDOT. This would be a 36-foot-high drawbridge, which would reduce the amount of openings required per day compared to the current, outdated drawbridge.
But north-end residents — specifically the Longboat Key North group of homeowners associations and condominiums — preferred the lowest option and voiced that to town leaders. Members of the coalition said concerns about the width of the bridge and slope were paramount, along with the height.
A decision over which bridge alternative will be chosen was slated to be presented in early 2025.
Following Hurricanes Helene and Milton, town staff said the FDOT may explore a “no-build” alternative more seriously, which would include making significant repairs to the existing bridge.
Debby drops record rainfall
Before Helene and Milton, there was Debby. Hurricane Debby was the first major hurricane to have impacts on the Suncoast this summer, which began what climate experts predicted to be a very active Atlantic hurricane season.
The storm made landfall on Aug. 1 as a Category 1 storm in Florida’s Big Bend Region. Though Longboat Key didn’t take a direct hit from Debby, the storm dropped a record amount of rain on the Sarasota area. Sarasota was reported to experience 17.78 inches of rainfall flooding, according to the National Weather Service.
Wind gusts on Longboat Key were estimated around 56 mph, and no
evacuations were required for residents. The island’s low-lying areas experienced some flooding as a result of the downpour.
After Debby, environmental experts chimed in on how the storm impacted the region’s waters. Water quality concerns were raised after the heavy rainfall caused stormwater and wastewater systems to become overwhelmed. It was estimated that 25 million gallons of sewage leaked from the city of Bradenton’s system into Manatee River, and another 17.7 million gallons leaked from the city of Sarasota into Sarasota Bay.
Mark Bergin
Carter Weinhofer
A red tsunami in Florida
“The incentive that impels man to act is uneasiness.” It was abundantly clear Floridians were uneasy about the past four years.
Last words on last Tuesday’s election results. Well, maybe not. But in any case, what happened in Florida certainly deserves to be noted more than it has been — because it’s rather stunning. Let’s start at the top: Trump versus Harris
Of course, if you talk to a Republican, she (or he) likely will say she has renewed faith in the American voters. But talk to a Democrat, and you’ll likely get what Republicans said in 2020: “I can’t believe the American voters are that stupid and elected that idiot.”
Fact is, that’s the way it is with every presidential election. When can anyone recall when there were two equally likable and qualified candidates running for president? Not in this lifetime.
So we go back and forth — a pendulum swinging from one side to the other, with the hopeless hope that one day we will achieve what Americans really want from their government in Washington, D.C.: Laissez-faire! … Leave us alone!
That, of course, will never happen. So voters vote the way they do because of one simple reason: They believe it will bring something better for their own lives than what currently exists.
Take it from one of our favorite late Austrian economists, Ludwig von Mises and his seminal book, “Human Action”: “The incentive that impels a man to act is always some uneasiness.” Simple as that.
But wait, there’s more, von Mises said: “To make a man act, uneasiness and the image of a more satisfactory state alone are not sufficient. A third condition is required: the expectation that purposeful behavior has the power to remove or at least to alleviate the felt uneasiness.”
Casting that vote is the purposeful behavior.
So, in short, way more people voted for Donald Trump over Kamala Harris because they thought the past three years were uneasy. No, make that horrible. And they wanted to end that. Or, to be even more precise, Bill Clinton covered it: It’s the economy, stupid. Always.
Bright red in Florida
After Jeb Bush broke the Democrat Party’s stranglehold on Florida’s
By the time you read this, the palace intrigue over Florida’s two senators — Marco Rubio and Rick Scott — is likely to be over. Nonetheless, here is some of what was floating around Florida Republican circles Monday: A longtime Florida Republican insider said he would be surprised to see Trump appoint Rubio to a cabinet post, because that would give Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis the opportunity to appoint himself to the Senate, which Donald Trump supposedy doesn’t want.
But you also could bet Rubio was thinking hard about becoming secretary of state. Surely, he and his wife weighed the risks: If he stayed in the Senate, he likely would be secure, virtually unbeatable in Florida elections. What’s more, he is line to become chairman of the powerful Com-
HOW FLORIDA VOTED 2024
Trump 6,102,930
Harris 4,674,445
Total votes cast 10,877,474
2020 BLUE COUNTIES THAT FLIPPED RED
n Duval (Jacksonville)
n Pinellas (St. Pete/Clearwater)
n Hillsborough (Tampa)
n Seminole (Orlando)
n Osceola (Disney, Puerto Rican)
n Miami-Dade
2020
Trump 5,668,731 51.2%
Biden 5,297,045 47.9%
Total votes cast 11,067,456
BLUE COUNTIES
n Duval (Jacksonville)
n Gadsden (Tallahassee)
n Leon (Tallahassee, FSU, FAMU)
n Alachua (Gainesville, UF)
n Seminole (Orlando)
n Orange (Orlando, UCF, Disney)
2024 VOTERS BY PARTY
BLUE COUNTIES: 5 of 67
n Gadsden (Tallahassee)
n Leon (Tallahassee, FSU, FAMU)
n Alachua (Gainesville, UF)
n Orange (UCF, Disney)
n Palm Beach
n Broward (Fort Lauderdale)
n Osceola (Disney, Puerto Rican)
n Pinellas (St. Pete/Clearwater)
n Hillsborough (Tampa)
n Palm Beach
n Broward (Fort Lauderdale)
n Miami-Dade
governorship in 1998, that marked the end of the Democrat Party’s 120-year control of Florida state politics.
From 1877 until Bush’s election, of the 29 governors, only two were Republicans — and even they were Democrats before flipping sides.
The makeup of the Legislatures in those 120 years was similar — blue and Blue Dog Democrats.
But with Bush’s election, Republicans flipped control of the Legislature as well. And ever since, for the past 36 years, Florida state politics has been solid red.
That is, until Barack Obama became president in 2008. For those eight years, Florida started drifting back to its blue roots. Even the Republican stronghold of Pinellas County turned blue, and Orange County (Orlando), once the reddest of reds with its roots in the citrus industry, turned blue.
In fact, from the Obama years (2009-2016) until now, Florida reflected much of the United States. Its population centers of MiamiDade, Broward, Palm Beach, Tampa Bay, Orlando (Orange, Osceola, parts of Seminole), Jacksonville and the university centers (Tallahassee and Gainesville) were solid blue Democrat.
Even in 2020 when Trump decisively defeated Biden in Florida, the accompanying map shows the 12 counties that voted Democratic.
But this year, in 2024, as the top map shows, the tide from blue to red resembled the force of Hurricane Helene. Six blue counties flipped to red.
The most stunning flip occurred in Miami-Dade. In 2016, Hillary Clinton massacred Trump with 63% of the vote to Trump’s 33%. But in 2024, the results flipped.
mittee on Foreign Relations and serves as vice chair of the Select Committee on Intelligence — two prestigious positions. But if Trump wants him to be secretary of state, consider this: Rubio’s ego likely would be telling him not to pass up that once-in-alifetime opportunity. At the same time, his practical side (his wife) would likely counter that Rubio would never know what day Trump would walk into Rubio’s office and say: “You’re fired.” Then what? Our bet: Ego beats job security. Meantime, there was the contest for Senate majority leader, where Scott on Monday had emerged with momentum.
As of this writing (before the Senate vote), Scott had the backing of Trump, Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy, Robert Kennedy Jr., Charlie Kirk and other Trump influ-
FLORIDA PRESIDENTIAL TURNOUT
MANATEE, SARASOTA TURNOUT
HOW MANATEE, SARASOTA VOTED
These are the results for selected races.
“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 / Petra Rivera, PRivera@ YourObserver.com; Carter Weinhofer, CWeinhofer@YourObserver.com
Digital & Engagement Editor / Kaelyn Adix, KAdix@YourObserver.com
Digital Content Producer / Jim DeLa, JDeLa@YourObserver.com
Director of Creative Services / Caleb Stanton, CStanton@YourObserver.com
Trump won Miami-Dade with 55.2% of the vote and a vote margin of 125,343 — unheard of for a Republican presidential candidate.
The Trump tsunami carried over to Florida’s congressional delegation and Legislature as well. Sen. Rick Scott was re-elected with his largest victory margin in four statewide elections (55.6%), including a first-time victory in Miami-Dade.
Republicans also held 21 of the state’s congressional seats; 28 of the 40 state Senate seats; and gained two state House seats, increasing their margin in the House to 83 versus 35 Democrats. Those margins continue to give the Republicans a veto-proof supermajority in the House and Senate, along with the state’s Republican governor.
How did Florida shift so far red?
You can attribute that to many factors — one being conservative Northeast, Chicago and Califor-
encers. Most likely, Republican senators will have have made their choice by the time you read this.
But they, too, like Rubio had some strategic thinking to do. Specifically, you can bet many of them were asking that important question: “What’s in it for me?” Meaning: What happens to them if they do not vote for Scott (whom Trump likes a lot) and instead vote for the Mitch McConnell Establishment acolytes — John Cornyn or John Thune?
HOW LONGBOAT VOTED
nia residents fleeing their tax hells for Florida’s no income tax. But perhaps the following numbers tell the story: From 2016 to 2024:
n Registered voters increased by 1,888,420.
n Of those, 1,223,613 were Republicans, 64.7% of the total.
n Meantime, registered Democrats declined by 147,998, 3.2%.
n Registered non-party and other parties voters increased by 812,805, 43% of the increase in registered voters.
Perhaps you can credit the Republican Party machine for recruiting. But we’ll credit Bill Clinton again. It’s the economy, stupid.
Surely, they know the answer: They would be voting against Trump. And you know what that would mean: In the doghouse they go and will stay.
Our prediction: Scott will prevail. At the same time all this was under way, Florida had two other political all-stars being named to high-level positions: Susie Wiles, the political genius who had guided Rick Scott and Donald Trump (twice) to victories. Trump named her chief of staff.
Trump also has Florida Rep. Michael Waltz at the top of his list for national security adviser. Waltz, R-Palm Coast, is a former Green Beret who has been outspoken against China aggression.
If all four of these Floridians end up where it looks like they will, what a coup. And that’s just scratching the surface of all the talent in this great state. — MW
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
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
President / Emily Walsh
Chairman Emeritus / David Beliles
Vice President / Lisa Walsh (1995-2023)
MATT WALSH
FLORIDA HAS TOP TALENT FOR TRUMP
Rick Scott Marco Rubio
Longboat Key Fire Rescue recognizes valor at annual awards ceremony
Crew members were awarded medals and awards for apt responses to rescue calls and dedication to the department at the annual ceremony.
CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER
The Longboat Key Fire Rescue Department held its 6th Annual Medal Day and Pinning Ceremony, where Longboat Key Fire Rescue Chief Paul Dezzi and other high-ranking members recognized others’ years of service and acknowledged the acts of crew members during rescue calls from the past year.
“I think the more important thing is for the firefighters to know that we, internally, appreciate what they do,” Dezzi said.
One of the last, but not least important, awards Dezzi presented was the Fire Chief’s Award, which was given to Logistics Officer Tara Pavgouzas.
Pavgouzas joined the Longboat Key Fire Rescue Department about a year ago after a career with the Philadelphia Police Department. Dezzi said Pavgouzas’ initiative and eagerness for the job have been remarkable.
For Pavgouzas, the department has been more than a job for her. During Hurricane Helene, she lost everything in her Lido Key home. After that storm, the Longboat Key Fire Rescue crew did everything they could to help Pavgouzas recover.
“They are in fact my family,” Pavgouzas said. “They were by my side from day one helping me. I love my job; I love working; I love coming to work ... to me, it’s not even like a job. It’s like a family.”
Assistant Chief and Fire Marshal
Jane Herrin received Florida’s 16th Congressional District Fire and EMS Award from Congressman Vern
Buchanan’s office.
“I’ve had the honor, and I mean this, to know and work with Jane for over 25 years. Throughout our long professional relationship, Jane has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication, expertise and leadership qualities,” Paul Dezzi said.
Herrin has been involved with protecting the community for over 30 years. She began her career as a firefighter in Manatee County, then became a fire marshal for Sarasota County where she developed fire prevention programs “second to none,” Dezzi said.
There were also some awards given to members of the community outside of the department.
One commendation award was given to Sherman Young, an employee with the Longboat Key Club. Paul Dezzi said that in February, Young recognized a resident had not been responding to the club for several days and no one had seen her at the restaurant she frequented.
This prompted Young to request a wellness check by club security and the fire rescue department. When personnel arrived at her residence, the crew found that she had fallen and was incapacitated for several days.
“Because of Sherman Young’s caring of others, diligence and awareness he prevented this incident from becoming a tragedy,” Paul Dezzi said.
Paul Dezzi also presented the Longboat Key Club with a recognition plaque for the club’s hospitality and open doors with the department to use their buildings for meetings.
RESCUE RECOGNITIONS
Dezzi also recognized several crews involved with rescue calls over the past year, including a call in June with the U.S. Coast Guard and Manatee County Lifeguards. These crew members responded to a marine vessel crash in which the vessel struck a channel marker.
Two passengers were in critical condition, one of which was a trauma-alert victim. From what
Szalbirak shared with Dezzi about their response, he said the crew did an outstanding job. There were two other marine rescue calls, one in which a Longboat Key Fire Rescue rescued passengers who were stuck on a vessel that ran aground 300 yards offshore in rough waters.
That same crew was recognized for another rescue, which was a boat crash that resulted in two passengers struggling in the water. The crew treated the victims for hypothermia and transported them to the hospital.
Before Paul Dezzi received his Phoenix Award, he and Szalbirak presented one to Lieutenant Daniel Heath, Firefighter Paramedic David Oliger and Firefighter Paramedic Tirso Guerrero.
In March, this crew responded to an unknown emergency. When they arrived on the scene, they found a man on the ground yelling and screaming, who then went into cardiac arrest for eight minutes.
The Longboat Key crew responded quickly while preparing to transport the victim to the hospital. In the end, the crew and emergency doctors saved the patient’s life.
“Because of the quick recognition of the need for emergency services, quick response and quick treatment ... this is why we had this positive outcome of this patient,” Szalbirak said.
Pipeline of projects
Two major infrastructure projects are needed for Longboat Key, and neither can be put off any longer. To make substantial progress on both, the town must take on loans for an estimated $27 million debt.
At the June 28 commission meeting, commissioners reached a consensus to direct staff to pursue a loan through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund Loan Program. The interest rate for this loan would be about 2.89% for a 20-year term, which amounts to a total repayment of $37.6 million.
This loan option requires approval from town voters, which will likely come as a referendum in the March 2025 election.
Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton all contributed to the early end of sea turtle nesting season this year.
Debby’s rain and overwash caused a significant washout of many of the nests still active at that point in the season. Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium estimated that 79% of the nests were impacted to some degree, and 42% were wiped out entirely.
Then, Helene’s strong storm surge effectively led to the end of sea turtle nesting season. Those nests that survived Debby likely did not survive on Longboat Key after the Gulf of Mexico met with the bay on many parts of the island.
Before the hurricanes, though, nesting numbers were strong.
According to Mote’s last published weekly nesting summary, Longboat Key had a total of 1,259 nests. In all of Mote’s territory, there were 4,376 nests.
Despite strong nesting numbers on Longboat Key, lighting concerns were raised again this season.
First were issues with lights installed along Gulf Drive and Gulf of Mexico Drive as a part of the Florida Department of Transportation’s new crosswalk installation project. After an adult sea turtle became disoriented and struck by a vehicle on Anna Maria Island, the FDOT temporarily shut off the lights
until proper lighting shields were installed.
There were also issues with the St. Regis throughout the end of construction and after it opened to the public. These issues persisted from May to the end of the nesting season, with a couple of weeks of compliance at one point. Still, the St. Regis received more than $6,800 in fines.
This led to St. Regis representatives appearing at a Special Magistrate Hearing, where town code enforcement officers presented the case to the magistrate. After a nearly three-hour hearing, the magistrate opted to allow the St. Regis more time to come into compliance.
The hearing was continued to the following month. This was scheduled for Oct. 9, which was then canceled due to Hurricane Milton. On Nov. 13, the hearing is scheduled to go before the magistrate for a second time.
Sea turtle releases brought glimpses of positivity during the summer, notably the release of Lil’ Dougie. The female loggerhead sea turtle was named after Doug Johnson, creative communications specialist for the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, who was out paddleboarding with his wife, Susannah, when they saw the distressed turtle and called Mote to rescue her.
Lil’ Dougie was showing signs of lethargy and buoyancy issues and also had an injured flipper.
On Aug. 12, Lil’ Dougie was lively and ready to go back to the ocean. She was released at Siesta Key Beach after 73 days of rehabilitation at Mote.
The largest of the two projects is the subaqueous force main replacement, which is estimated to cost $31.4 million for the remainder of the project. The mainland portion of the project was completed in 2023 for a price of $2.72 million.
Two state appropriations for $1.25 million and $800,000 will help bring the cost down, and some town funds will also be used.
This replacement is necessary after a 2020 fracture and leak from the existing pipe. The new pipe under Sarasota Bay will be installed about 50 feet away from the existing one to decrease the chance of accidental fractures during construction.
The other major infrastructure project is the Country Club Shores asbestos cement pipe replacement project, which already started. The outdated water pipes were installed in the late 1960s and early ’70s, and will now be replaced with new polyvinyl chloride pipes. The older pipes are more fragile and susceptible to breaking.
The first two phases of the asbestos cement pipe replacement will require about 15,000 linear feet of pipe and cost around $5.5 million. The first two phases are estimated to cost around $3 million to $3.5 million.
WELCOME
Carter Weinhofer
Friends and Neighbors,
The storms we have endured in the past number of weeks have been devastating, and their effects will be felt throughout our community for a long time. Recently, we’ve heard from many friends and past clients who have been seriously affected and are uncertain about their immediate next steps.
Historically, our Seaward Companies have focused primarily on new construction— both residential and commercial—as well as consulting services. However, in light of the many inquiries we’ve received, we are now prepared to extend our services to those in our community who have been most impacted by the storm. We are ready to meet with property owners to discuss the best options moving forward.
Our Seaward team members are here to assist our clients and friends with all of your needs at this time.
•
Substantial Home Remodeling
Let us assist you with a full scope of services including initial assessment, engineering, selective demolition, and through the execution of your property restoration.
• New Home Construction
Let our team guide you from architect selection and home design through vertical construction on a new or replacement elevated home with enhanced hurricane resistance safety features.
• Sale of your Property
For owners who desire to sell their property at this time and forego a construction project, we may be able to assist by purchasing your property. Alternatively, we can also connect you with one of our island team members from our real estate division at The DiPinto Group at Coldwell Banker to accommodate your real estate needs.
We at Seaward Companies are happy to meet with you to discuss all options that you may be considering at this time. We understand over the past two weeks that these storms have affected everyone differently and there is no “one size fits all” solution. What we can do now, is provide you with as much information as possible regarding your property options, from local and trusted professionals in our marketplace. With this important information you will be in the position to make the best decision for you and your family moving forward.
Best regards.
Patrick DiPinto Seaward Homes and Seaward Consulting
Longboat Key remembers the friends and family we lost from April through September.
BWilliam (Bill) Joseph Beckmeyer died July 3 at age 94. In Detroit, he met his wife of 54 years, Elizabeth Anne (Betty) Beckmeyer, they married and returned to Fort Thomas, Kentucky, where Bill started his pediatric practice. He devoted his career to caring for children for over 40 years. Upon his retirement, he moved to Longboat Key and spent 20 years vacationing there with his children and lifelong friends. After Betty’s death, he remained on Longboat and married Marie Watts. For the past nine years, they have built a life together, enjoying each other’s companionship and similar passions, which were tennis, golf and travel.
JoAnne Hatch Galbraith Bruch died June 5. Her warmth and affection touched the lives of many, spanning from her childhood home in Nutley, New Jersey, to where she raised her family in Devon, Pennsylvania, to Longboat Key, where she reveled in countless summers and a decade of golden years alongside her husband of 50 years, Herbert. She attended the University of Pennsylvania and earned a master’s degree in English and became a high school English teacher. A connoisseur of literature, her avid reading traversed myriad genres, culminating in the publication of her own book, which chronicled the remarkable life of Aunt Dr.
Hilde Bruch, renowned for her pioneering work on anorexia. She is survived by her brother, Thomas, her sister, Martha, her five children and seven grandchildren.
C Elizabeth (Betty) Ann Curry died June 7 at age 84. A dedicated mother and homemaker, she joined the University of Florida in 1990 as an education administrator after her children were grown. She retired in 2000 and relocated to Longboat Key with her husband. She was a devoted volunteer at the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium for 20 years, contributing her time and passion to marine conservation. She was also an active member of St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church. She is survived by her children, sisters, grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
MG Linda Lombardo Gidel died April 16 at age 73. She put her time and energy into volunteering at local community and beautification projects and serving in various leadership roles on community association and nonprofit boards, such as the University Park Women’s Club, Longboat Key Garden Club and the Gidel Family Foundation, where she also served as president since 1997. Her passion for gardening made her a familiar face at botanical gardens and parks, where she loved to share her knowledge and enthusiasm with others — her certification as a Master Gardner from the University of Florida being one of her proudest achievements. She is survived by her husband, Robert, children, brother, nieces, nephews and lifelong friends.
Shirley Marie Manning died June 23 at age 88. In 1959, she began her 40-year career at Rand McNally. She was hired in a clerical position but quickly worked her way up to management in several departments. She enjoyed 41 happy years with her husband, John. Together, they enjoyed playing golf, traveling, fine dining, summer and Christmas reunions and fishing trips to Wisconsin. She is survived by three children, Theresa, Kathi and James; grandchildren; greatgrandchildren; great-great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
Lynn Noel Nieting died July 13 at age 84. Lynn was deeply committed to her faith, actively participating in both St. Armands Key Lutheran Church in Sarasota and Immanuel Lutheran in Valparaiso, Indiana. She was a long-time resident of St. John, Indiana, where she was a dedicated congregant of Grace
Lutheran in Dyer. Her giving spirit was evident through her hobbies, which included sewing for family and her church, quilting for church charities and playing bridge. She is survived by her husband, Joel, children, grandchildren and brother.
William Michael O’Neil III died May 19 at age 88. He served his country as a member of the United States Army, stationed in Hawaii. Following his service, Bill earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Miami and a law degree from the University of Akron. Bill had a distinguished legal career in Florida, practicing in Miami and later in Tallahassee. He was also a member of the Texas Bar. In 1997, Bill retired to Longboat Key, where he enjoyed tennis and kayaking. He continued to serve the community by providing hundreds of hours of pro bono legal service through Legal Aid of Manasota. He is survived by his four children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Moderator Rob Lorei, host of
Panelists:
Eric
Jeffrey Michael Deane died April 4 at age 77. He was a partner with Friedman, Billings, and Ramsey Inc. in Washington, D.C., retiring in 2011. Following his retirement, he lived part time in his dream home in Sarasota. His passion for golf, tennis and the stock market will never be forgotten, as well as his love of the Washington Commanders and a good martini. Jeff is survived by his wife, Laurie, children, grandchildren and sister.
R Harold Ronson died July 15 at age 98. He is survived by two daughters, Norma and Joanne, his two grandchildren, Lauren and Jonathan, and his great-grandchild, Jackson.
“I had the pleasure and honor of knowing my father for 67 years,” said his daughter, Norma Ronson Koppel. “He was a proud Jew, and he was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He taught me to make every moment count and to never take life too seriously.”
In 1926 in Brooklyn, Ronson was born into a family that struggled to make ends meet. As a teen during World War II, Ronson was inspired by his two older brothers’ service in the armed forces. At the age of 17, Ronson forged his father’s signature on a consent form to join the U.S. Navy.
From 1944 to 1946, Ronson served at Iwo Jima and in the Philippines.
After returning home, Ronson was the first in his family to attend college, at Philadelphia Textile Institute at Philadelphia College, now Thomas Jefferson University, graduating in 1951 with a degree in chemistry.
He became a plant chemist for W. Lowenthal, a synthetic fiber company in Cohoes, New York. In 1962, Ronson bought the company with a group of stockholders and later bought out his partners and became the sole owner in the 1970s.
In 1976, Ronson and his late wife, Kay, became snowbirds
on Longboat Key. The Ronsons loved the Sarasota Opera (Ronson served on the board for nearly 20 years.), and he played tennis almost religiously at the Longboat Key Club until he was 94 with three hip replacements.
His friend Hein Rusen described Ronson as always cheerful.
“He viewed the world as the glass always being half full,” said Rusen. “He was a real people person and loved his wife, family and friends dearly. He was a very generous person and a very caring person.”
Ronson supported many causes, including donating a $2 million endowment at the Senior Friendship Centers with Rusen, $2 million to his alma mater to
ADOPT DON’T SHOP
OPEN 7 DAYS 10am-6pm - 941-366-2424 | 2542
create The Kay and Harold Ronson Health and Applied Science Center and $500,000 to Temple Beth Israel, which is the biggest contribution in its history. On Feb. 25, the 45th annual Temple Beth Israel gala honored Ronson for his many contributions throughout the years.
The atrium at the Sarasota Opera is named for the Ronsons, as is an endowment for nursing education at Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation, in honor of Kay and her profession.
“I like to be somebody,” said Ronson in his memoir. “I like people to know me. I like to leave a mark. What better feeling is there than to help somebody?”
Town of Longboat Key ATTENTION VOLUNTEERS
The Town of Longboat Key is accepting applications for appointment to the following boards: Zoning Board of Adjustment
All applications must be submitted to the Office of the Town Clerk by 12:00 p.m. on November 22, 2024. All applicants must be registered voters of the Town of Longboat Key. Late applications will be held for one year for any future board or committee vacancies that may arise.
All members of the Zoning Board of Adjustment are required to file a financial disclosure form within 30 days after appointment and annually thereafter for the duration of the appointment as required by Florida Statutes Chapter 112.
The Town Commission may schedule a Meet and Greet with applicants at a later date. Please call the Office of the Town Clerk at 941-316-1999 to request an application or questions. Applications are also available on line at: www.longboatkey.org. Completed applications may be submitted to: Town of Longboat Key – Office of the Town Clerk 501 Bay Isles Road Longboat Key FL 34228
Stephanie Garcia, Deputy Town Clerk I Published: 11-07-2024, 11-14-2024
SWilliam (Bill) Sandy died April 23 at age 94. He led a fully authentic life as a writer, business executive, entrepreneur, small-town mayor and philanthropist. In 1953, he landed a writer job at the Jam Handy Company, the Detroit-based innovative sales training organization. Bill’s astute observations and relationship skills caught founder Jam Handy’s attention, and Bill became the account executive for Chevrolet and other GM clients, serving as a speechwriter, coach and informal advisor to automotive industry leaders. When Handy retired, he supported Bill’s desire to start his own company, the Bill Sandy Company, later named Sandy Corporation. Along the way, Bill served as mayor of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, attended Harvard Business School and served on governing/ advisory boards at the Cranbrook Institute of Science, Asolo Repertory Theatre, Harvard Business School, Oakland University and the University of Michigan’s Institute for the Humanities. Bill published two books, “Solving the Productivity Paradox” and “Learning from Upheaval.” He is survived by his wife, Marjorie, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Harvey I. Steinberg died July 23. He led Beacon Construction Company for many decades, transforming the skyline of Boston and other cities. He served as a trustee of the MIT Museum, Fay School and USS Constitution Museum, where he lent his leadership, construction and management expertise.
W Barry Walden Walsh died May 5. One of four children of St. Armands Circle Shoe Store owner, she grew up in “Old Sarasota” in the 1950s and ’60s, as the Ringling Brothers dominated and developed the Key. With her husband’s career as a federal prosecutor taking the family to various parts of Florida through the late ’60s, she defied the norms of the time and finished her master’s degree in biology at the University of Miami while a young mother to toddlers. As her husband’s career moved her family to Washington, D.C., in the late ’70s, she worked for the Society of American Foresters and then the Center for Environmental Quality as an environmental writer and editor. Upon their retirement, she returned to Longboat Key in the mid-1990s. Her dual loves of nature and writing were put to use in her published “History of Florida Forests” and as she worked for Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. She also kept her writing local as a guest columnist for the Longboat Observer , covering local history and real estate happenings on the island. She is survived by her siblings and children.
LECTURE SERIES PAINTING CURRENT EVENTS QIGONG YOGA MEDITATION BRIDGE MAH JONGG CANASTA
SUPREME COURT AMERICAN HISTORY
LITERATURE & POETRY MOVIE & BOOK GROUPS
MUSIC & ART APPRECIATION JAZZ NIGHTS
MORNING FORUMS THEOLOGY WORLD POLITICS
FILM FESTIVALS THEATRICAL PERFORMANCES
AUTOBIOGRAPHY iPHONE & iPAD BIRDING
NATURE WALKS WELLNESS
LANGUAGES SUNDAY CONCERTS
BROADWAY BIOS CRAFTS
SPECIAL ONE-TIME EVENTS & MUCH MORE!
TRIBUTES
Thomas Jack Black, Sr., age 92, passed away after a heroic battle with Alzheimer’s on October 13, 2024. A true southern gentleman and loving patriarch, Jack is mourned by his wife of 25 years, Phyllis Radford Black; three living children, Thomas Jack Black. Jr, Lisa Dawn Black, and Tiffany Jaye Black-Wilson; grandchildren, Laura Holcomb Johnson, Matthew John Holcomb, Heather Black Arthur, Anna Black Johnson, Thomas Jacob Black, Cade Collins Wilson, and Tallulah
Ophelia Wilson; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Jack was predeceased by two children, Todd Black and Glenda Black Holcomb, a son-in law Charles ‘Buddy’ Holcomb, and one grandchild, Charles Thomas Holcomb. Jack was an Atlanta business entrepreneur whose family ran the Old Hickory House barbecue chain known by its tagline, “Put Some South in Your Mouth.” He was named after his grandfather, who created the original recipes for the barbecue sauce, ribs, and Brunswick stew that became family staples and Jack’s livelihood. After World War II, Jack’s father and mother, William and Frances Black, opened their first barbecue and burger joint with their savings in Birmingham, Ala. Jack grew up working
at the restaurant. In 1950, at the age of 17 he married Ann Irene Cantrell, started a family, and continued to work in the family’s restaurant. Jack often joked that he was serving beer before he could even drink a beer. In 1953, along with his wife and children, Jack moved to Atlanta. His father helped him open the first Old Hickory House restaurant on Northside Drive. It was the first of many.
Jack married Glenda Collins Black in 1967, added to his family, and continued to work building up his restaurant business, eventually owning more than 16 Old Hickory House restaurants all over the Southeast by the late 1980s. His ribs were literally world renowned: a U.S. Ambassador to France would import them from Atlanta to Paris, Eastern Air Lines offered them as an in-flight meal, and former
President Jimmy Carter served them at his inauguration and other White House events. In 1977, the movie “Smokey & The Bandit” had a scene at the Forrest Park location of Old Hickory House with Jackie Gleason and Burt Reynolds, when Gleason’s character orders a Diablo sandwich and a Dr Pepper.
During the painful time of segregation, Jack refused to have separate areas in his restaurants for black and white customers, declaring, “I’m gonna feed whoever wants my barbecue.” Jack was proud that his son Todd continued his legacy in the restaurant business.
Jack had a friendship and contract with Alex Cooley, who was known unofficially as the “mayor of Atlanta music.” He catered for Alex Cooley’s Capri Ballroom, his Electric Ballroom, the “green room” at Chastain Park events, and Alex Cooley’s Champagne Jam. They collaborated on the very successful Atlanta Pop Festival at Atlanta International Raceway.
Turning out world famous barbecue wasn’t Jack’s only business success. In 1958, he was one of five partners who developed the 1.5-mile, $1.8 million track called Atlanta International Raceway (now Atlanta Motor Speedway). It was an immediate triumph, with 25,000 people attending the first race in 1960, the Dixie 300. As a young man, Jack drove in both stockcar racing and drag racing. He did runs at Daytona two different years and qualified
at the Atlanta Motor Speedway in the late 1960s. He developed both a business and personal friendship with the Bill France Sr. and Bill France Jr., the founders of NASCAR. Jack held a pass to every speedway in the nation and attended the Daytona 500 for 56 years.
At the Speedway, Jack got to know a peanut farmer and race fan by the name of Jimmy Carter. They became good friends, and even built a concrete-block barbecue pit on the back lawn of the White House during Carter’s presidency so Jack could cater State events.
Jack met his wife Phyllis in 1996, married her in 1999, and soon after retired to Longboat Key, where they spent their first year on their boat sailing around the Florida Keys and the
Jack’s intelligence, wit, southern grace, great voice for speaking and singing, and big heart are missed by all who were lucky enough to know him.
Bahamas. He worked in the Dock Master’s office at Marina Jack “just to keep busy.” The couple bought TowBoatUS franchise in 2006 and turned their love of boating into a business. His ribs were always in high demand by the Longboat Key Garden Club, Tangerine Bay residents, and at the
Blacks’ annual Fourth of July celebration.
Jack was a member of Atlanta Athletic Club, Atlanta Athletic Yacht Club on Lake Lanier, The Sarasota Yacht Club, and The Cherokee Town and Country Club. His philanthropy was well known; law enforcement, firefighters, power line workers, and service men and women always ate free at his restaurants, and he donated food during emergency situations. He was a dependable supporter of Georgia Tech and his children’s schools (Lovett and Woodward).
Jack will be remembered as a man of many passions. Besides barbecuing and racing, he was an avid pilot, hunter, car and firearms collector, maker of delicious cocktails, and world traveling casino patron (Black-Jack was his game). Jack’s intelligence, wit, southern grace, great voice for speaking and singing, and big heart are missed by all who were lucky enough to know him.
SERVICE:
A memorial service for family and friends was held in Atlanta, Sunday, October 27th at 3:00 p.m. at HM Patterson and Son-Arlington Chapel.
DONATIONS: In memory of Jack, the family requests that you pay for the meal of the next community worker or service member in uniform you see dining, give generously to the relief organization of your choice, or go have a great meal and fine cocktails with the people you love.
SATURDAY, NOV. 2
GARAGE DOOR GLITCH
9:52 p.m., 6200 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive
Suspicious Incident: An officer was dispatched to investigate a residence after the homeowner reported receiving multiple notifications about his garage door opening and closing. When the officer arrived at the residence, the officer noticed the doorbell covered by a plastic bag and painter’s tape. The officer continued to check the house and found no signs of forced entry but found an unlocked back door that led to the garage. After speaking with the homeowner over the phone, he said he did not want the officer checking the inside of the residence. He speculated the notifications were due to an internet outage.
SUNDAY, NOV. 3
LIGHT IN THE DISTANCE
5:58 p.m., Greer Island
Suspicious Incident: A citizen called to report suspicious flashing lights in the Gulf of Mexico. The responding officer was able to locate the flashing light and determined it was a buoy. Dispatch was advised there was no suspicious activity.
TUESDAY, NOV. 5
MAILBOX MISHAP
11:58 a.m., 700 block of Marbry Lane
Property Damage: A resident said a FedEx truck accidentally struck her mailbox and requested police assistance. When an officer arrived at the scene, the officer saw there was minor damage to the mailbox, but it was still standing. The resident showed the officer footage from her doorbell camera to prove the truck made contact with her mailbox. The officer provided her with a case number and she said she would contact FedEx to report the incident and seek payment for the mailbox.
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 6
WANTED: INVASIVE IGUANA
1:24 p.m., 4500 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive
Animal Problem: A Longboat Key officer was dispatched to the beach to locate a three-and-a-half-foot lizard that was reported by a citizen. Upon arrival at the beach, the officer canvassed the area but was unable to find the invasive iguana.
GOLF CLUBS GONE
4 p.m., 5400 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive
Officer Public Service: A resident called police to report that a $1,500
set of golf clubs was missing from his vehicle. He told the responding officer that his vehicle was towed by an unknown company a month prior to a tow yard in Arcadia due to flood damage. When the company came to tow the vehicle, the resident said they could not get the golf clubs out of the trunk because of electrical damage to the vehicle. When he went to check on his vehicle in Clewiston, he discovered his golf clubs were missing from the trunk. The Longboat Key officer advised the resident to contact police departments in Arcadia or Clewiston to report the incident.
THURSDAY, NOV. 7
WORKING THROUGH THE NIGHT
1:21 a.m., 500 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive
Suspicious Incident: Dispatch advised Longboat Key PD of a possible prowler looking around a neighborhood street. The responding officer located four electrical company trucks and met with the workers and the caller. The caller then apologized and said he got nervous when he saw flashlights, but it turned out to be electrical workers working on an in-ground electrical box.
COPS CORNER
YOUR NEIGHBORS
WINNER
OBSERVER
ONLINE IN ITALY:
Dan Adragna, Cathy Adragna, Rick Wellinger and Jill Wellinger with their apps of the East County Observer in LaSpezia, Italy.
NOW THAT’S AMORE!
Four Lakewood Ranch residents win the It’s Read Everywhere prize by holding digital versions of the East County Observer on a hot Italian night.
JAY HEATER
EAST COUNTY MANAGING EDITOR
It was another trip, this time to Italy, along with a Croatian cruise, and Jill Wellinger was going to be ready.
Her bags weren’t going to be completely packed, though, until she picked up several East County Observers
“I always take my Observers with me,” she said. “It’s my entertainment on the airplane.”
She also had another reason to include the Observer among the items she packed in her luggage. For years, when Jill and her husband, Rick Wellinger, go on a trip, they take a photo at one of their favorite destinations, holding up a copy of the East County Observer, to enter in the It’s
Read Everywhere contest.
They also have included their good friends, Dan and Cathy Adragna, on their trips and in the photos. After two of their trips, one to Bora Bora and another while on an Alaskan cruise, their photo appeared in the East County Observer
Although Rick said he gets “some grief” from his golf buddies when his photo appears, it has become a fun moment for them during their trips. So now, Jill makes sure the issues are packed.
Only this trip was different.
Rick told Jill that he had never seen anyone holding up a digital copy of the East County Observer on the It’s Read Everywhere page. Why not be the first?
“Technically (the contest) just says to show the Observer,” Rick said.
Well, yeah.
The group hesitated a bit, but then decided to go for it. They all had brought iPads, so Rick’s idea was to pick one East County Observer cover to display on all four iPads.
But which one?
It didn’t take the Wellingers long to decide. They have been longtime friends with Lakewood Ranch’s JoAnn Moore, a cancer survivor who was featured in the July 4 issue for her work in bringing a premier dragon boat event to Nathan Benderson Park along with her passion for the sport.
So in Cinque Terre, a coastal area in northwest Italy, they decided it was the right time.
“We were kind of dressed up that night and we were going to the oldest restaurant in that area. Its name was All’Inferno (in LaSpezia), which seemed right because it was hot as heck,” Jill said.
So all dressed up, on a hot night in Italy, the Wellingers and the Adragnas carried along their iPads for a very special It’s Read Everywhere.
TO ENTER Snap a photo of you on vacation holding your Observer, then submit your photo online at YourObserver.com/ ItsReadEverywhere. Stay tuned for this year’s prize, and happy travels!
DUTCH TREAT: Wendy Peck and Karin Zoons with the Longboat Observer outside of Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam
At the restaurant, they all called up the issue with Moore’s photo on the cover from the YourObserver e-newspaper app — and click — history was made. It’s Read Everywhere now includes photos of the digital version.
And not just any photo. It was the winner of the It’s Read Everywhere contest, voted on by the public, and therefore Rick Wellinger will receive a $500 credit to the airline of his choice, a prize he will split with the Adragnas.
On the next trip, Jill said she will again pack an Observer, or perhaps the iPad, to take an It’s Read Everywhere photo.
“I guess you could say it’s a thing for us,” she said. “We’re always very excited to do it.”
Will you be the next to win the It’s Read Everywhere contest? Whether it’s the Longboat Observer, the Sarasota Observer or the East County Observer, the paper (or a digital copy) has been to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, to Antarctica, to the Great Wall of China, and all over America. Where will you take us next?
END OF THE EARTH: Megan Collins took the Sarasota Observer on board the Seabourn Venture to Antarctica
Longboat welcomes back its seasonal flock
Welcome-back parties, town events and business reopenings hope to ensure snowbirds that the island is recovering little by little.
PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER
Cheers of joy were heard out on the Links on Longboat Golf Club when the Key-Niners held their first event of the season.
At its welcome-back lunch on Nov. 7, the ladies of the Key-Niners explained it was a special feeling seeing their friends and feeling some normalcy after weeks of uncertainty.
“You should have heard us out on the driving range,” said member Ricki Harvey. “We were like screaming when we first saw each other. We are so happy to be back with everyone.”
Just like the Key-Niners, the town of Longboat Key and its organizations are welcoming back snowbirds as normal as the island continues to recover from Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Susan Phillips, assistant to the town manager, shared that even though they don’t know what to expect for the season, they have been hearing a lot of resilience from both the parttime and full-time residents.
“Everybody’s been appreciative of the town’s efforts when looking at other communities’ recoveries,” said Phillips. “We are making good progress, but we just ask everyone to be patient as they come back.”
Light Up Longboat will be the town’s first official event after the hurricanes, and it is intended to be bigger than ever. On Nov. 23, the town is partnering with the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce to host it at the Town Center Green for the sixth year in a row.
After the yearly tree lighting ceremony, local musicians will perform holiday songs to liven up the holiday spirit on the Key. People will
get the chance to talk to a variety of local businesses and organizations to support their recoveries, along with special appearances from Santa Claus, Mickey and Minnie Mouse.
“Hopefully, we’ll have most of the debris cleaned up and have the island feeling a little more normal by then,” said Phillips. “What we want to achieve is bring some joy and some recovery and sense of community.”
Similarly, there will be a free concert on Dec. 14 on the Town Center Green as another way to promote normalcy and community. Phillips also shared that the Longboat Key Garden Club is partnering with the Longboat Island Chapel to host the first-ever “Art in the Garden” event in April.
The event was inspired by Christmas in the Garden as a way to showcase local artists in a natural environment for five days. She said it was planned before the hurricanes hit the island, but she knows it is the perfect thing to give people confidence for the season.
Even though the chapel was damaged by the hurricanes, volunteers are working hard to clean it up in time for Christmas in the Garden in December. The Rev. Brock Patterson was insistent on moving forward with the annual holiday event to provide some hope for people on the island.
“People want to see each other,” said Patterson. “They want to do their events and their activities as best as we can. We’re carrying on full steam ahead with a lot of things.”
After cleaning up the garden, volunteers from the chapel will start decorating its trees of varied themes. Patterson said they are still confirming which businesses and organiza-
tions plan to donate a tree this year.
For the first time, there will be a community tree where residents can hang an ornament that means something special to them. He plans it to be a symbol of unity and peace as the island recovers.
“Christmas in the Garden is a very peaceful, meaningful time for people,” said Patterson. “This year more than ever, because all of our homes and property are in such disarray, it’s really important for the community to know they have a place where they can come, sit down, chill out and experience Christmas.”
As more seasonal residents come in, small businesses reopen for the first time, and they use it as a reason to celebrate. Driftwood Beach Home and Garden hosted a reopening party for its first day back open on Nov. 10. Owner Heather Rippy said about 100 people stopped by to show their support.
“Everyone was so kind in their support of my small business,” said Rippy. “It was encouraging to hear people talk about how the shop and businesses like mine are important to them and the community. I am so grateful and filled with hope.”
Petra Rivera
Jill Reiter, Paula Kapp, Shawna West and Ricki Harvey catch up at the Welcome Back Key-Niners lunch.
Courtesy image
Heather Rippy welcomes back customers into Driftwood Beach Home and Garden on Nov. 10.
COME ON IN; WE’RE OPEN
Staple restaurants on the Key shared what it is like being open after two hurricanes devastated the island.
al Christensen, general manager of Harry’s Continental Kitchens, was ecstatic to put down his construction hat after a month of being closed due to destruction from Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The longtime restaurant and deli reopened on Nov. 8.
“I’m just amazed at my staff and their resilience and their ability to come in and get things set up and have such a happy and positive attitude towards everything,” said Christensen. “This month has been hard, and everyone is just appreciative we are open. It’s so nice to be a restaurant manager again and not a construction foreman.”
Just like Harry’s, many restaurants are open for business just in time for season. Most are finishing final repairs and welcoming back regulars. On the other hand, some still have awhile to go before they can officially open again.
IS YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT OPEN?
n Lazy Lobster: Open
n Harry’s Continental Kitchens: Open
n Dry Dock Waterfront Grill: Open
n Euphemia Haye Restaurant & The Haye Loft: Open
n Guppy’s: Open
n Blue Dolphin Cafe (Longboat and St. Armands locations): Open
n Cafe L’Europe: Temporarily closed
n Crab and Fin: Temporarily closed
n Ventura’s Italian Kitchen and Wine Bar: Open
n Whitney’s: Open
n Maison Blanche: Open
n Chart House: Open
n Shore (Longboat and St. Armands locations): Open
n Longbeach Cafe: Open
n Old Salty Dog on City Island: Temporarily closed
n New Pass Grill: Open
n La Norma Italian Restaurant: Open
n Chubby’s Lounge: Open
n Solorzano’s Pizzeria: Open
n Sips: Open
n Turtle Coffee Bar: Permanently closed
off their new and improved restaurant to their loyal supporters and new customers.”
Taking a few moments now can make a significant difference for your loved ones down the road. From removing the stress and financial burdens to fulfilling your exact wishes for your celebration of life, pre-planning is the best gift you can give your family. We’re here to help. Give us a call today to start the conversation.
Crab and Fin on St. Armands Circle is temporarily closed but plans to reopen on Dec. 1.
In a Facebook post, the owners updated their regulars on the progress of repairs. The restaurant has new drywall and all landscaping has been cleaned out. As they get closer to the reopening date, they plan to add new flooring, finishes and greenery to liven up the space.
They said in the post they are “working day and night to welcome back everyone and can’t wait to show
Even though Blue Dolphin Cafe on St. Armand’s Circle was damaged after both hurricanes, it was one of the first restaurants to open.
Owner of the Longboat Key location, Robbie Ball, said he is grateful for his hardworking staff because they wouldn’t have been able to pick up as quickly without them.
“I grew up on the island,” said Ball. “It broke my heart to see it torn apart. I look forward to Longboat Key and all its residents being able to shift back into recovering and getting back to normal.”
Petra Rivera
Harry, Lynn and Hal Christensen
ADOPT A SENIOR PET MONTH
Seniors for Seniors
Church collaboration
When the community needs a beacon of light, religious congregations started an interfaith ministry to encourage bonding and help between Longboat congregants and residents.
PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER
At Lazy Lobster on Oct. 28, six religious leaders of Longboat Key sat and enjoyed lunch together.
Around the table were the Rev. Julia Piermont of Christ Church of Longboat Key, the Rev. David Marshall of All Angels By The Sea Episcopal Church, the Rev. Brock Patterson and the Rev. Jeffrey Nunes of Longboat Island Chapel, the Rev. Kenneth Blyth of St. Armands Key Lutheran Church and Rabbi Stephen Sniderman of Temple Beth Israel.
Their conversation revolved around how powerful the first services were when everyone returned to the Key after Hurricane Milton.
“Everyone expressed how wonderful it felt to be in worship together, to be able to sing together and to be able to have conversations,” said Piermont.
This lunch was only the start of their preparations for the 44th annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Worship Service on Nov. 19.
As seasonal residents return and the community moves toward normalcy, the six congregations of Longboat Key, along with St. Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church, plan to lead the service under a new interfaith ministry that unites all: the Interfaith Ministerium of St. Armands and Longboat Keys.
With the help of the Executive Director of the Ministerium and Julia Piermont’s husband, Dennis, the Interfaith Ministerium works to encourage more collaboration between congregations throughout the year — beyond the annual interfaith service.
As a retired regional church executive in Long Island, New York, Dennis plans to use his previous experience of organizing communication among different churches to lead the
IF YOU GO
THE 44TH ANNUAL INTERFAITH
THANKSGIVING WORSHIP SERVICE
When: 5 p.m. on Nov. 19
Where: All Angels By The Sea Episcopal Church, 563 Bay Isles Road
Tickets: Donations of nonperishable foods are encouraged to benefit All Faiths Food Bank.
All Longboat residents can attend, especially congregants from the following congregations: All Angels By The Sea Episcopal Church, Christ Church of Longboat Key, Longboat Island Chapel, St. Armands Key Lutheran Church, St. Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church and Temple Beth Israel.
interfaith ministry. He has already started coordinating monthly meetings between the religious leaders and the organization of future events they want to have.
“People are going to assume that the ministry is only about coming to church,” said Dennis. “The ministry is really about the church, looking at where it is and how we serve the people who are living here.”
This year’s Interfaith Thanksgiving Service will be the first step toward more unity and bonding. Its next event is in May, when it plans to honor Longboat police, firefighters, town workers and other first responders for all their work related to the hurricanes.
All Angels Music Director David Stasney will be leading the All Faiths Choir, which will include members of all congregations. All attendees are encouraged to bring donations of nonperishable food to benefit All Faiths Food Bank.
“This event is going to be a space for storytelling and connectivity after everything,” Marshall said.
enjoyment is waiting for you in this 3BR bedroom home w/deeded beach access on protected, sailboat water w/direct access to SRQ Bay w/no bridges. It is located in desirable Country Club Shores. This home offers Newer HURRICANE IMPACT GLASS/Sliding glass throughout the entire home. Newer roof, air conditioning, pool and spa, newer seawall and lift rated for a 10,000-lb capacity. Sarasota bustles with many art galleries and antique shops. From New York bagels to elegant bistros and world-class restaurants, its marinas, and golf courses. No water intrusion in this home from the storms.
5941 Gulf of Mexico Drive - $9,500,000
521PuttingGreenLn.com
This charming single-story beachfront home offers an incredible opportunity for those seeking a slice of paradise. Sold as-is, the property is situated on a generous lot, making it ideal for a family compound or a personal retreat. With ample space for outdoor gatherings, this property is perfect for families looking to create lasting memories by the beach. Whether you're looking to renovate, build your dream home, or simply enjoy the existing structure, the potential here is limitless. 5941GulfOfMexicoDr.com
LOCAL LOVE
Longboat resident and photographer Mary Lou Johnson admits she didn’t expect high attendance in preparing for the St. Armands Circle Art Festival.
After the first day, she was pleasantly surprised at how many pieces she sold to customers looking to support the community after Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
“Sales have been over the top, but that is not what I expected at all,” said Johnson. “I thought nobody would come with all the stores closed, but it is honestly great.”
On Nov. 9-10, St. Armands Circle was lined with tents of unique paintings, sculptures and handmade trinkets for the 35th annual St. Armands Circle Art Festival. As the first event after the hurricanes, tons of art lovers, visitors and lo-
cals bustled through the different booths of both artists and stores with their hearts full that the circle was back in business.
“We were just wanting to support the area,” said local resident Leah Wallace. “I love that the shops on the Circle sell unique items that I can’t get anywhere else.”
In preparation for the event, the St. Armands Circle Association worked closely with Sarasota County to clean up as much debris as possible from St. Armands Circle Park. All businesses were encouraged to participate in the sidewalk sale to gain revenue and visibility.
“My heart goes out to all of these merchants,” said Rachel Burns, marketing and events director of the association. “A lot of people think that everybody on St. Armands is a millionaire, and it couldn’t be further from the truth. Everybody on St. Armands is your typical neighbors and friends. I hope this event gives people hope again that we’re going to get these jobs filled and the stores reopened.”
Around 30 businesses of the
association are open. Stores that aren’t open yet used the sidewalk sale as an opportunity to participate in the festival. Many customers stopped by their tables to purchase the merchandise that was spared from the storms.
“It is amazing just to be back to work,” said Keisha Freeman, manager of Fugate’s By The Sea. “So many returning customers have come back today to help out and are asking us when we are going to officially open. It was a big surprise.”
Longboaters Julie Eckert and Mary Kileen were excited to see the streets of St. Armands packed again and the schedule filling up after weeks of disappointment caused by the hurricanes.
“It feels really good to support,” said Eckert. “We went to the St. Mary’s (Star of the Sea Catholic Church) Bazaar earlier today and then came to this. We are just trying to be there for people after the hurricanes. It is awesome to see events happening again and everyone being positive even though we aren’t 100% yet.”
— PETRA RIVERA
Golden Gate Point in Downtown Sarasota is abuzz with anticipation as Peninsula Sarasota approaches its grand unveiling in the coming months. This ultra-luxurious boutique condominium offers breathtaking views of Sarasota Bay, the marina, and the city skyline. Residents are gearing up to move in early next year, and with only a few opportunities remaining, now is your last chance to secure your coastal retreat. Contact our Sales Gallery for pricing and availability today.
Locals Annabeth Howton and Jenna Barnett browse clothing at the St. Armands Circle Art Festival.
Keisha Freeman and Susan Cornett, from Fugate’s By The Sea, during the St. Armands Circle Art Festival.
Photos by Petra Rivera
Longboat photographer Mary Lou Johnson displays her work at the St. Armands Circle Art Festival.
Tracey StetlerSteven Moore Patrick DiPintoRene DiPintoNicholle DiPinto McKierman
donate & shop
donate & shop
& shop
beginning to look a lot like Christmas
When the ladies of the St. Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church Women’s Guild receive donated Christmas trees and wreaths to decorate, they aren’t necessarily in the best shape. Some are old and ragged, but this doesn’t scare the seasoned tree decorators.
3 Stores n 1 Location Tuesday - Saturday n 10:00am - 5:00pm 2095 17th Street n Sarasota
3 Stores n 1 Location
Tuesday - Saturday n 10:00am - 5:00pm 2095 17th Street n Sarasota
3 Stores n Location Tuesday - Saturday n 10:00am - 5:00pm 2095 17th Street n Sarasota
“It is all about the transformation for me,” said Diane Monaghan. “We each come in with different ideas each year. We look online to see what is trending because we are competing with big stores.”
3 Stores n 1 Location Tuesday - Saturday n 10:00am - 5:00pm 2095 17th Street n Sarasota
Have large items to donate?
Call to schedule a courtesy pick up.
Call to schedule your free pick up. (941) 444-5783 n www.habitatsrq.org
Have large items to donate? Call to schedule your free pick up. (941) 444-5783 n www.habitatsrq.org
Parishioners Monaghan, Jackie DeAngelo and Jane Vorel have been on the tree-decorating team for years. Their own houses are full of unique trees with different themes each year, so it is just natural and fulfilling for them to do it for the guild.
Have large items to donate? Call to schedule your free pick up. (941) 444-5783 n www.habitatsrq.org
Longboaters enjoyed and purchased trees and other handmade Christmas trinkets at the guild’s annual Christmas Bazaar on Nov. 9.
On the trees and wreaths, people found perfectly tied bows from Vorel and handmade angels she made entirely out of ribbon.
Along with the trees, the women
of the guild contributed a variety of Christmas supplies, such as decorations, gifts and baked goods. All proceeds went to the hurricane relief fund of the church.
Co-Chairs Bonnie Schneider, Catherine Costello and Maggie Oberst have been leading meetings about the event for the past two months. People can continue to buy goodies after Mass on Sundays.
At Sarasota Memorial, we know that you’re busier than ever before. That’s why we’ve made your yearly mammogram easier than ever before.
No more waiting for appointments and then waiting for answers, schedule on your own time and get the answers you need within 24 hours of your exam.
So you can make your screenings fit your schedule.
Learn more at smh.com/mammo or call (941) 917-7322 to schedule an appointment today.
PETRA RIVERA
Photos by Petra Rivera
Jane Vorel at St. Mary Christmas Bazaar.
Maggie Oberst, Catherine Costello and Bonnie Schneider at the St. Mary Christmas Bazaar.
Water Club condominium tops week’s sales at $4 million
ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR
Acondominium in The Water Club at Longboat Key tops all transactions in this week’s real estate. Michael and Kimberly Laurie, of Longboat Key, sold their Unit 1005 condominium at 1281 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Barbara Clark and Richard Kenneth Clark, of Penfield, New York, for $4 million. Built in 1999, it has two bedrooms, three baths and 2,667 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.2 million in 2012.
SLEEPY LAGOON
A.C. Buddendorf Ltd. Partnership sold the home at 6609 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Donda Bullis, of Longboat Key, for $3.65 million. Built in 1994, it has four bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 4,132 square feet of living area. It sold for $3,575,000 in 2021.
LONGBOAT BEACHCOMBER
Longboat Beachcomber Condominium Association Inc. sold the Unit 308 condominium at 2721 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Olha Mar LLC for $1,305,000. Built in 1970, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 884 square feet of living area. It sold for $155,000 in 1985.
HARBOUR VILLA CLUB AT THE BUCCANEER
Steven Peters, of Charlottesville, Virginia, sold the Unit 102 condominium at 615 Dream Island Place to Gregory Neyer and Diana Casey, of Longboat Key, for $1,035,000. Built in 1985, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,293 square feet of living area. It sold for $859,000 in 2023.
CLUB LONGBOAT BEACH TENNIS
James and Michelle Harkins, of Longboat Key, sold their Unit 426 condominium at 5055 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Francis Xavier Hussey and Astrid Fry-Hussey, of Longboat Key, for $1,005,000. Built in 1975, it has two bedrooms, two baths and
1,554 square feet of living area. It sold for $230,000 in 1998.
JOHN RINGLING ESTATES
Camille Miller, trustee, of Venice, sold the home at 335 Arthur Drive to Park Residences LLC for $1 million. Built in 1951, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,445 square feet of living area. It sold for $484,000 in 2012.
THE DIPLOMAT
Christopher and Sue Doane, of Louisville, Kentucky, sold their Unit 265 condominium at 3155 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Richard Charles Novetzke Jr., trustee, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, for $695,000. Built in 1960, it has one bedroom, one bath and 680 square feet of living area. It sold for $32,500 in 1977.
LONGBEACH
Gregory Ciccolo and Stephanie Sonnabend, of Longboat Key, sold their home at 7012 Palm Drive to Steven Weyl, trustee, of Galena, Ohio, for $650,000. Built in 1961, it has two bedrooms, one-and-a-half
TOP BUILDING PERMITS
dollar amounts.
baths and 1,104 square feet of living area.
SUTTON PLACE
KPA Group FL Inc. sold the Unit 303 condominium at 600 Sutton Place to Peter and Lillyan Sclafani, of Wyckoff, New Jersey, for $600,000. Built in 1973, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 992 square feet of living area. It sold for $425,000 in May.
transactions at YourObserver.com
Image courtesy of Laura Rode
Michael and Kimberly Laurie, of Longboat Key, sold their Unit 1005 condominium at 1281 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Barbara Clark and Richard Kenneth Clark, of Penfield, New York, for $4 million.
THE
6TH ANNUAL
Light up Longboat
YOUR CALENDAR
November 23, 2024
5:30 - 7:30 pm
Karon Family Pavilion
Town Center Green
600 Bay Isles Road
LIVE MUSIC BY BIG Z McCAIG & TIM MICHAEL
SPECIAL APPEARANCES BY SANTA, MINNIE & MICKEY
LOCAL EATS & TREATS
SHOP LOCAL: GIFT CARD SALES & MERCHANDISE
Free to the Public! Join us for a festive and fun evening to kick off the holiday season.
The Rotary Club of LBK is collecting unwrapped children’s gifts for Hope Family Services in Bradenton. Donate and receive a raffle ticket for a chance to win a $100 gift certificate to The Lazy Lobster.
SATURDAY, NOV. 16
ST. ARMANDS CIRCLE CARS AND COFFEE
8-10 a.m. at Lynches Pub and Grub, 19 N. Boulevard of Presidents. Join Lynches for Cars and Coffee on St. Armands Circle. Free event. No need to register. All makes and models are welcome. Call 388-5550.
TUESDAY, NOV. 19
POP-UP LIBRARY
10-11:30 a.m. at Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road. On the first and third Tuesday of each month in the back parking lot of Town Hall, the Library Pop-Up will be at Longboat Key with books for all ages. Swing by to sign up for a library card and read a book by the beach. Call 861-5475.
THURSDAY, NOV. 21
VIBRATIONAL BLISS
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at The Education Center at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. Learn about sound healing and how vibrational therapy aims to gently bring the body back into homeostasis by using specific sounds and frequencies. Practitioner Perette DeJean-Cannady will create an immersive sound bath using Crystal and Tibetan bowls. Members, $20; nonmembers, $25. Call 383-8222 or email Admin@ TBIEducationCenter.org.
RECURRING EVENTS
MONDAYS STRETCH AND STRENGTHEN
From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. This class is mostly seated and great for all fitness levels. Focus is on strength training and flexibility for balance. Suzy Brenner leads the class. Fee is $15; free for members. Walk-ins welcome. Call 383-6493.
MIXED BEGINNERS BRIDGE
From 1-2:30 p.m. at The Education Center at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. Professional bridge player and teacher Larry Auerbach will cover the basic mechanics and fundamentals of the game combining players who have some knowledge of the game and new players. Members, $85; nonmembers, $95. Call 383-8222 or email Admin@ TBIEducationCenter.org.
BEST BET
FRIDAY, NOV. 15
HEALTH EFFECTS OF MOLD AFTER HOME FLOODING
1:30-2:30 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Lifestyle Physician Dr. Coeurlida Ashby will discuss the health effects of mold exposure after home flooding. Discover practical steps for healing and recovery from this type of exposure. RSVP at 383-6493.
TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS
PILATES SCULPT
From 9-9:50 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Pilates Sculpt is a combination class mixing traditional Pilates exercises into a fun, challenging workout to upbeat music. It will make you sweat, encourage your body to burn calories and make you stronger and more flexible. This class is for all levels. Cost is $15; free for members. Walkins welcome. Call 383-6493.
YOGA
From 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Debby Debile, of Feel Good Yoga & Massage, leads a gentle yoga class that can be done on a mat or in a chair. Cost is $15; free for members. Call 383-6493.
TUESDAYS AT THE MOVIES
From 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at The Education Center at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. Enjoy quality assigned films at local theaters and come to class to discuss them with popular film maven and critic Gus Mollasis. Films are assigned a week before class discussion. Package of six, members $95; nonmembers, $105. Pay as you go, $17 per class. Call 383-8222 or email Admin@TBIEducationCenter.org.
File photo Dr. Coeurlida Ashby speaks at the Paradise Center.
NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH
FORECAST
SATURDAY, NOV. 16
Nov. 19 6:54a 5:37p
Nov. 20 6:55a 5:36p
MOON PHASES
TIDES
CRAWLING BACK by Adam Simpson, edited by Jeff Chen
By Luis Campos
INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888 redpages@yourobserver.com • yourobserver.com/redpages
The Longboat Observer reserves the right to classify and edit copy, or to reject or cancel an advertisement at any time. Corrections after first insertion only.
*All ads are subject to the approval of the Publisher.
*It is the responsibility of the party placing any ad for publication in the Longboat Observer to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance with towncodes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property.
Notice: All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.
