The town of Longboat Key will host a shredding event from 9 a.m. to noon on Friday, March 7 at the Longboat Key Town Hall (501 Bay Isles Road). The event is free for residents to stop by and dispose of sensitive documents at Town Hall. Documents like invoices, tax documents, checks, medical records, legal documents and expired passports can be brought to be shredded. The shredding company will not accept items like CDs and DVDs, flash drives, batteries or cell phones or other electronics. For more information or to ask questions, contact the town clerk’s office at 941-3161999.
Longboat’s own art festival
Looking to add some fresh art to your home as part of your spring cleaning? Look no further than Longboat Key’s very own art celebration. Local artists will be displaying and selling their work, including life-size sculptures, ceramics, paintings and much more. The fourth-annual Longboat Key Festival of the Arts in Sarasota County takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday at the Town Center Green, 600 Bay Isles Road. Admission is free, and parking is available on Bay Isles Road. Visit ArtFestival.com for more information.
Dana Kampa
OF FEB. 20, 2025
BY THE NUMBERS
“It’s a huge disappointment.”
Longboat
Allegiant starts seven new routes
Now comfortably ensconced in the new Concourse A at Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport, Allegiant
Air began service to and from multiple new destinations.
The new routes include:
n Greenville/Spartanburg, South Carolina via GreenvilleSpartanburg International Airport
n Moline, Illinois via Quad Cities International Airport
n Albany, New York via Albany International Airport
n Elmira/Corning, New York via Elmira Corning Regional Airport
n Omaha, Nebraska via Eppley Airfield
n Roanoke, Virginia via Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport
n Great Smoky Mountains National Park/Knoxville, Tennessee via McGhee Tyson Airport
“We are thrilled to see Allegiant Air expanding their routes to include seven new nonstop destinations operating out of our new Concourse A,” SRQ Airport
President and CEO Rick Piccolo said. “This expansion will increase the number of nonstop Allegiant destinations at SRQ to 35 and the total number of nonstop destinations served by all airlines to 68.”
SRQ unveiled the new Concourse A in January, which was the airport’s first significant expansion since 1989.
The new flights will operate up to twice weekly. Flight days, times and fares are available at Allegiant.com.
Shops change location after fires
The layout of shops at St. Armands Circle is different following a fire that damaged buildings on the 300 block on Jan. 23. But the shops are finding ways to adapt and continue serving the Longboat Key community.
Most recently, Sea Glass Lane, a clothing boutique, announced it is relocating across the street to 59 South Boulevard of the Presidents for the next four to six months. The store that sustained the most extensive damage, Rochelle’s Boutiques, announced on Jan. 25, that it would not be reopening its shop on the Circle but would continue to offer online shopping and maintain its stores in Siesta Key, Connecticut and Rhode Island.
Vote-by-mail deadline approaching
The deadline for residents to request a vote-by-mail ballot for the town’s general election is 5 p.m. Feb. 27. Sarasota County residents can call 941-861-8600 or visit SarasotaVotes.gov to request a ballot. Manatee County residents can call 941-741-3823 or visit VoteManatee. com to request a ballot. The town’s general election will be held on Tuesday, March 11, and include a contested commission election for an at-large seat, a referendum and charter amendments. On the day, Sarasota County voters
The article “Hopefuls Meet” which appeared in the Feb. 13 edition of the Longboat Observer has been corrected online to reflect that the Form 6 disclosure requirement for local elected officials is temporarily blocked due to a federal judge’s ruling.
Allegiant Air celebrates the opening of Concourse A at Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport with a custom wrap on one of its
Parks still need major work
CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER
While Longboat Key is widely known for its pristine beaches, the coastal town includes some hiddengem parks like Joan M. Durante and Quick Point Nature Preserve. In these parks, visitors are immersed in Florida nature and experience views of Sarasota Bay and its wetlands.
But currently, the main walkways of these nature parks remain closed after Hurricanes Helene and Milton left the parks in disarray.
It’s not just replacing a couple of loose boards. Entire boardwalks and observation decks need to be replaced in both parks.
Streets, Facilities, Parks & Recreation Manager Mark Richardson with the town of Longboat Key’s Public Works Department said this project is more involved than people may think, and costly. Replacing the parks’ boardwalks, the town dock and the boat ramp could cost around $2 million.
As Richardson walked around Durante Park with Mark Kerr, also with the town’s Public Works Department, he noted how the boardwalk damage gets worse as you move closer toward the bay.
The power of the surge from Hurricane Helene and the wind from Hurricane Milton dislodged boardwalks into disarray, and one observation deck in Quick Point is completely gone.
Some of the boardwalks that used to be flush to the ground are now raised two to three feet above it.
In most areas, the state of the unstable walkways makes it difficult to pass and unsafe for the public to use.
For the parks, Durante Park will probably need 5,193 square feet of new boardwalk and another 5,210 square feet for Quick Point.
The 10,000 square feet of boardwalks, town dock and boat ramp will be replaced with a new composite material as the town is moving away from using wood in public facilities.
In some areas of Durante Park, an older style of composite material existed, making it more slippery than a newer style. In Quick Point, the
observation decks and most boardwalks were still made of wood.
“It’ll benefit the parks in the long run,” Richardson said. The composite material is waterproof, more durable and lasts longer than wood, according to Richardson.
About a year ago, most of the boardwalks in Durante Park were replaced with this new composite material, which cost around $150,000 for the project.
Given the recent damage, most of those fresh boardwalks will need to be replaced again.
Richardson said he is going to try to save on costs wherever possible.
For example, he hopes the lowest bidder for the project will do all the replacements across the town to save money on project mobilization.
Also, Richardson said the materials of some boardwalks are still salvageable, and he hopes he can work with the construction company to reuse some of those materials.
In some places, Richardson thinks the boardwalks could be pushed back into the ground and would only require some touch-ups.
While going through these largescale repairs, Richardson said his staff will also reevaluate the placement of benches throughout the parks. In some areas, older benches have
overgrown vegetation now blocks the views that once existed.
Now, with some benches destroyed or gone missing in areas around the town, Richardson said the town might look to relocate the benches for further cost savings.
NEXT STEPS
On Feb. 13, Richardson and Kerr took a final walkthrough of Durante Park to measure the boardwalks to finalize the details before sending the project out to bid.
Richardson said the project would be in the bidding process for 30 days before the town could move forward with a construction company and receive a final cost estimate.
There would then be some backand-forth with the contracts before getting started on construction, which Richardson estimated would take about three to four months.
“Hopefully, we can time it right to do (the construction) in the summer when there are fewer people here,” Richardson said.
Town staff hopes these repairs and
replacements to the town’s public facilities will be eligible for reimbursement by insurance and claims through the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
FEMA has a list of different claims that break down eligibility for agencies to receive reimbursement funding after disasters. The agency’s Category G claim applies to parks, recreation and other facilities, which is the category the town would pursue a claim under for these repairs.
Depending on the claim, FEMA could reimburse projects like these for up to 75% to 100% of the cost.
The reimbursements usually have a deadline and, in this case, Richardson said he’s confident in meeting that deadline.
“I don’t see any problem getting it done in 18 months,” Richardson said.
There are also some repairs needed at Bayfront Park, but the park is technically owned by Sarasota County. Richardson said the county is responsible for capital projects in Bayfront Park, but the town handles operations and maintenance.
Photos by Carter Weinhofer
The main observation deck at Quick Point Nature Preserve offered guests a prime view of Sarasota Bay. The structure disappeared after the hurricanes.
Mark Richardson and Mark Kerr, of Longboat Key Public Works, traverse the damaged boardwalks of Joan M. Durante Park.
One of the observation decks at Quick Point Nature Preserve collapsed after this past summer’s storms.
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PINCH POINTS
Traffic is inevitable, but the north-end community group thinks a simple solution for the exits on Coquina Beach could make a big difference.
CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER
Snowbirds and peak tourist season revitalize the island in spring, but the influx of people to Longboat Key and the islands also brings increased traffic.
Traffic concerns, especially on the north end of Longboat Key, are a common gripe among residents during this time of year. North-end communities raised the concern again to town commissioners to see if anything could be done to alleviate the issue.
Maureen Merrigan, who co-chairs Longboat Key North, spoke about her concerns and ideas at a commission meeting on Feb. 3.
Longboat Key North is a coalition of homeowner and condominium associations on the north end of Longboat Key that meets regularly to talk about north-end issues.
North-end residents like Merrigan say the main pinch point of the traffic going north is at Coquina Beach and Bradenton Beach.
Merrigan suggested that these areas require quick action with solutions she presented as cheap but effective.
Merrigan said many other northend residents have raised similar concerns about the equity of parking lot exits versus people trying to leave Longboat Key.
“What we’d like to encourage you to do is control the exits. We would ask that you enforce that and get to one exit on Coquina,” Merrigan said at the meeting. “I think we have an opportunity where we don’t want to be two years from now and say, would have, could have, should have.”
It’s not only residents trying to go north in this traffic but also service workers or laborers trying to make it to their next destination, Merrigan explained.
Similarly, Merrigan also shared concerns about the parking egress areas in Bradenton Beach, from which people back out of the parking spaces and into the traffic line.
Control of the Coquina Beach exit gates is with Manatee County.
Vice Mayor Mike Haycock suggested, with new faces on the Manatee County Commission, it might be time to revisit the conversation about exit control on Coquina Beach.
District 4 Commissioner Debra
Williams questioned who else the commission could talk to about the issue, also agreeing this solution could be effective.
“We’ve talked about this for several years now, and this is not a highcost solution. It doesn’t really inflict pain on anybody. It just makes traffic move more freely for everybody, even those people coming out of the parking lots,” Williams said. “Maybe we’re following up with the wrong channels, maybe there’s somebody else.”
Town Manager Howard Tipton said Manatee County is still the main point of contact, and this could be discussed at the Longboat Key commission’s next joint meeting with the Manatee County Commission.
That joint meeting was supposed to be held at the end of April but needs to be rescheduled, according to an email Tipton sent commissioners on Feb. 13.
Also in that email, Tipton said the Longboat Key staff reached out to the Manatee County beach staff and set up a meeting with the county’s public works team to discuss the issues.
LOOKING LONG-TERM
After the Feb. 3 meeting, Merrigan and Longboat Key North sent a letter to Manatee County District 3 Commissioner Tal Siddique.
Siddique was elected to his first commission term in November 2024.
When asked about the traffic concerns around the north end of Longboat through Bradenton Beach, Siddique said it’s a complicated matter.
“There’s no quick fix,” Siddique said. “Anything related to that area and the islands or the Key are complex because we have the state roads, but we also have county maintenance over the parking lot.”
While it is complicated, Siddique said the traffic concerns are something he is cognizant of, but it is still an inevitable issue when the busy season comes.
“The priority is certainly ensuring we can get free-flowing traffic there,” Siddique said. “There’s always going to be some form of traffic there. It’s a pinch point.”
Looking long term, Siddique said he’s also heard of other roadway improvements that may alleviate the traffic concerns through the bar-
rier islands. But, for now, Manatee County is looking elsewhere for its roadway projects.
According to Siddique, the Manatee County Commission’s latest list of infrastructure priorities sent to the Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization did not include suggestions for traffic control on the barrier islands.
“I was a little bit disappointed in that, but I think we still have some time to advocate for it and secure funding for the appropriate projects,” Siddique said. “I think where we’re at, there’s a need to prioritize those (traffic improvements) and then fund them.”
However, the MPO is working on a Barrier Island Implementation Plan that will be a continuation of the Barrier Island Traffic Study conducted in 2020.
The implementation plan is aimed at including more actionable items than the previous BITS and allows local municipalities an opportunity to prioritize some projects to the Florida Department of Transportation.
A final draft of the implementation plan is expected in August 2025.
“We’ve talked about this for several years now, and this is not a highcost solution. It doesn’t really inflict pain on anybody. It just makes traffic move more freely for everybody, even those people coming out of the parking lots.”
— Debra Williams, District 4 Commissioner
Red tide effects pop up on Longboat Key beaches
Piles of dead fish added to the foul odor on some parts of Longboat Key beaches around Feb. 17.
The side effects of red tide were
tion. Then on Sunday, everything was worse when she woke up to take a sunrise stroll on the beach.
“I was shocked when I got up in the morning on Sunday,” Loccisano said.
“The beach was covered in fish.”
Loccisano runs the Instagram account @FollowMeToLongboatKey, through which she documented the conditions through the weekend. By Monday, Loccisano said the water quality seemed to be better, but the fish kill was still prominent in some beach areas.
Piles of dead fish accumulated near the tide line, creating a stench prominent from the beach access parking lots. These effects began over the weekend, according to some resident reports. Red tide blooms are caused by an abundance of the bacteria karenia brevis. When red tide blooms occur, the algae can cause respiratory issues and cause widespread fish kills. The fish kills then wash ashore and exacerbate respiratory issues.
The smell of red tide is different from the smell of dead fish, but both can cause respiratory issues.
According to resident Sheila Loccisano, the red tide conditions were worse over the weekend. “It was definitely in the air,” Loccisano said. On Saturday, she said the irritation was slight to moderate, including a slight throat-burning irrita -
The last samples recorded by the Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County on Feb. 10 reported no karenia brevis cells in the water off of Longboat Key, but a large cell count further south near Blind Pass and Manasota Beach.
A red tide alert was issued for several southern Sarasota County beaches in November 2024, and local agencies have been monitoring the presence of red tide since that alert.
Earlier this month, Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium unveiled new technologies and strategies to combat red tide blooms that could be used in situations of large red tide blooms. Mote Marine also has a beach conditions monitoring program that relies on community reporting of dead fish and overall beach status. This map can be found at VisitBeaches.org/Map.
Carter Weinhofer
Some parts of Longboat Key’s beaches were lined with dead fish on Feb. 17.
Observer recommends
As is often the case on Longboat Key, whenever there is an election for Town Commission, Longboat Key voters have good, competent choices. Likewise, this is also true: The quality of Longboat’s candidates typically are superior to those we see on ballots elsewhere. And when Longboat’s commissioners are elected and serve, they typically do a superior job to what we see elsewhere.
Longboat voters are fortunate. This is the case again for the upcoming March 11 Town Commission election for the at-large seat. Longboat voters have two candidates — Steve Branham and Deborah Murphy — who are more than qualified and would serve taxpayers well.
It’s a tough choice. Neither one would be wrong. Indeed, it would be a plus for Longboat taxpayers if both candidates could win.
Deborah Murphy
In Deborah Murphy, Longboat voters have a candidate who already served on the Town Commission.
In March 2023, she won the District 5 seat (representing the northernmost part of Longboat Key) in an uncontested race.
On the commission, Murphy was an engaged commissioner, clearly well-versed and well-prepared at Town Commission meetings after digesting the volumes of reports, memos and documents required of the volunteer job.
When you meet and speak to her, you will see Murphy, 69, is a highenergy doer, part of her DNA. Prior to her and her husband moving permanently in 2019 to Longboat Key, Murphy spent 30 years as CEO and owner of Standard Supplies Inc., a family-owned construction supply and steel fabricating firm that served the greater Washington, D.C., area. Murphy was the family’s third-generation CEO.
While running the 125-employee company, Murphy also served as chair of the Metro Washington chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors, a 500-member organization and among the 10
APPROVING A STATE REVOLVING FUND LOAN TO FINANCE CONSTRUCTION OF A SUBAQUEOUS WASTEWATER LINE
Shall the town of Longboat Key be authorized to borrow money through a State Revolving Fund loan, not exceeding $33,000,000, bearing interest not exceeding maximum legal rates, maturing over a term not longer than 25 years, payable from revenues of the town’s water and sewer utility system and a backup covenant to budget and appropriate legally available non ad valorem revenues, to finance the design and construction of a subaqueous wastewater line across Sarasota Bay?
The town has no choice but to replace the rotting 50-year-old line. It popped a leak on the mainland side of the pipe in 2020, signaling bigger issues would soon follow. The question became: How to pay for the new line.
The town charter requires a referendum for any borrowing that
largest chapters in the U.S. In her home of Gaithersburg, Maryland, she also served as the president of the local Rotary Club.
“My husband says if there is something that needs to happen, ask Debbie,” Murphy says.
Having weathered the booms and busts in construction, Murphy brought her business ownership skills and financial acumen to the Town Commission. She also became an advocate for the town and Town Commission to raise its attention toward north Longboat Key issues — the planned roundabout at Broadway and Gulf of Mexico Drive and the persistent flooding issues plaguing the north Longboat neighborhoods.
Murphy also was the leading advocate to have Manatee County fund a community center facility in the vacant grocery store in Whitney Plaza — although the county has since rescinded its lease.
In her campaign for this at-large commission seat, Murphy emphasizes that with all of the upcoming projects affecting north Longboat, the residents there need a third commissioner (in addition to commissioners Sarah Karon and Debra Williams) from the Manatee half of the Key. Five of the seven commissioners live in Sarasota County.
“As a commissioner,” Murphy said, “my responsibility would be to listen to the concerns of the residents, see how much of a cumulative need there is and go to the town and see whether it’s grants, assess people for more money, or, one of the things they’re talking about in Sleepy Lagoon is creating a (taxing) district, like beach renourishment … We have to elevate these infrastructure things to a higher level.”
Murphy says she also would like to elevate the town’s relationship with the Manatee County Commission. “Quite frankly, I’d like to see not just these commission meetings when we go meet with them and talk about parking issues or traffic issues. We need to have a working group that actually looks at projects and has timelines. I don’t see any real commitment to having dedicated project pipeline as to what Manatee County is willing to do to invest in Longboat.”
Hanging over Murphy’s campaign for a second election to the commission is her resignation from the commission in December 2023, 10 months after being sworn in. Murphy resigned after objecting to a new state law requiring more personal financial disclosures than previously mandated. She said the mandate was too intrusive.
Those requirements subsequently are suspended and pending a judge’s ruling. Asked recently
whether she would resign a second time if elected and if the disclosure requirements were reinstated, Murphy told us: “I don’t want to go so far as to say if they brought it back that I would resign again. I would have to see what it looked like and what it entailed.”
Steve Branham
Resumes alone do not make the candidate. But if you studied the extent of Branham’s involvement in Longboat Key and the region over the past decade, plus his 27 years in the U.S. Coast Guard, all of that would make a convincing case. He is as qualified and deserving as anyone to serve on the Longboat Key Town Commission.
A sampling:
■ Education: Master of National Security Strategy, National Defense University; M.B.A, Case Western Reserve University; B.S., U.S. Coast Guard Academy.
■ Military service (1973-2010):
Rear Admiral-Commander, Seventh U.S. Coast Guard District — Chief executive of USCG’s busiest of nine districts worldwide, including Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and the entire Caribbean Basin. Led more than 11,000 employees in accomplishing the USCG’s 11 major mission areas, including search and rescue; all maritime law enforcement and marine/port safety regulatory, inspection and enforcement activities. Responsible for a budget of $90 million annually.
Rear Admiral-U.S. Coast Guard, chief financial officer —Responsible for the development, justification, allocation, expenditure and accounting for the USCG’s $10 billion annual operating and capital acquisition/improvements budget. Responsible for review and vetting and approval of all planning proposals service-wide.
U.S. Coast Guard Operational Command at Sea — Served six, two-year tours of duty at sea in the Atlantic, Pacific, Caribbean and Great Lakes regions; commanding officer for four of those tours aboard USCG cutters ranging in size from 95 to 378 feet.
■ Community service: Chairman, Longboat Key Consolidated Retirement System Board of Trustees — Managing $45 million fund for the past 10 years;
two-month hiatus.
exceeds $6 million.
The town staff’s due diligence produced a clear choice — the state revolving loan fund (see table).
To be sure, the principal and interest on that loan will increase your town water bill. But as is often noted, it makes sense to spread that cost over 25 years. Future residents should also pay for the use of that pipeline over the next 50 years.
We recommend: Yes
REFERENDUM REGARDING TOWN COMMISSION MEETINGS
Shall Article II, Section 13, of the Charter of the town of Longboat Key be amended to allow the Town Commission to cancel the Town Commission’s July regular voting meeting with advance notice of at least thirty (30) days prior to the meeting date?
As Longboaters know, come summer there typically is not a lot of pressing town business in July and August. Commissioners clear their agenda in June and typically take a
President, board of directors Suncoast Blood Centers — Four years as president, six years as a director, $15 million budget, four-county service area; President, Longboat Key Kiwanis Club, three years; Board member and fund-raising event chair, Longboat Key Garden Club, 10 years Board member, Longboat Key Foundation.
With all of this experience, the 69-year-old Branham has been exposed to myriad crises and challenges at all levels. Voters can be sure that when tense moments arise or difficult dilemmas confront the Town Commission, Branham can and would bring thoughtful, measured wisdom to his fellow commissioners and to the decisionmaking process.
Likewise, he is well-versed on Longboat Key, having been a resident here for 13-plus years and married to Susan Phillips, the retiring 27-year assistant to the town manager and the town’s public information officer.
While Branham lives on the south end of the Key, he also knows that an at-large commissioner cannot be partial to any one area and must be more global than the commissioners from the town’s five districts. He says the commission’s vision is “to ensure that Longboat stays Longboat and that we remain a premier community receiving exceptional service. I am committed to building on that reputation.”
This is a tough call for voters.
For much of Longboat’s history, there has been a common path to candidates becoming town commissioners.
It starts with years of volunteering in Longboat’s community organizations, then serving on one of the town’s boards — the planning board, tax oversight committee, retirement system, etc.
We’ve seen how town commissioners have developed a reputation of trust among Longboat’s residents before seeking office.
Branham has walked that path. Murphy, by contrast, started at the top.
Murphy makes a somewhat valid point of having more of the north Longboat perspective on the commission. When you live an issue daily, you pay more attention to resolving it.
All told, however, Longboat residents know more of who Steve Branham is versus Deborah Murphy. Her enthusiasm and energy are contagious; Branham’s steadiness is reassuring. Either way, Longboat residents cannot lose. But we’ll give a slight edge to tradition.
We recommend: Steve Branham
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The charter already officially permits the August recess. The proposed amendment merely codifies a permissible recess in July.
A cynical way to look at this amendment is that it’s a good move — the fewer times commissioners meet the less damage they can do to taxpayers (wink, wink).
We recommend: Yes
REFERENDUM REGARDING ACTING TOWN MANAGER APPOINTMENT
Shall Article III, Section 3, of the Charter of the town of Longboat Key be revised to address a potential conflict with the Constitutional prohibition on officers holding dual office and allow the Town Manager or Town Commission to appoint a qualified individual to serve as acting Town Manager in the event of the Town Manager’s temporary unavailability or inability to act?
Town Attorney Maggie MooneyPortales says the intent of the proposed revision “is to remove the ‘administrative officer’ language from the Section 3 in its entirety because most of the town’s administrative officers are technically ineligible under the Florida Constitution from serving in the acting town manager position when the town manager is unavailable or unable to act.”
“The constitutional dual office restriction applies to town administrative officers such as the police
chief, town clerk, town finance director and planning director, to name a few.
“If the town ignored the constitutional prohibition and appointed an administrative officer as the interim town manager anyway, any action taken by the appointed town officer could potentially be challenged as being void and of no legal effect. This could create problems for any contracts entered into or employment actions taken during the interim period.”
Unfortunately, the March 11 ballot does not provides voters with the language that will replace what already exists. Mooney, however, provided the Observer with that new language. If approved, the charter would be revised to read:
“(b) Acting Town Manager. By written notice filed with the town clerk, the town manager, or in his absence, the Town Commission, shall designate an assistant town manager, or a qualified town administrative officer individual, to exercise the powers and perform the duties of town manager during any temporary unavailability or inability to act.
“During such unavailability or inability, the Town Commission may revoke such designation at any time and appoint another officer of the town qualified individual to serve until the town manager shall return or the unavailability or inability shall cease.” We recommend: Yes
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MATT WALSH
Steve BranhamDeborah Murphy
Rooted in History: Ringling Museum and New College
Shifting the Ringling Museum under New College is not just logical; it ensures the museum’s legacy remains deeply intertwined with Sarasota’s cultural and educational future.
Some opportunities arise unexpectedly, and when they do, they make undeniable sense.
The decision to bring The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art under the stewardship of New College of Florida is one of those moments — an alignment that strengthens Sarasota’s role as Florida’s premier hub for arts, education and scholarship, while ensuring that this historic and cherished museum remains deeply connected to and preserved by the community that has shaped it for nearly a century.
This transition is not only sensible; it is a collective win. It is a win for Sarasota, reinforcing its reputation as a global leader in the arts and higher education; boosting tourism, cultural engagement and economic growth — all while preserving a historical gem.
It is a win for The Ringling Museum, which will receive an infusion of resources to elevate its world-class exhibitions, research and outreach.
It is a win for New College, strengthening its continued growth and academic prestige by offering students unparalleled
access to one of the most significant cultural institutions in the region.
And it is a win for Florida, ensuring that our state’s higher education system continues to build one of the nation’s most prestigious liberal arts schools.
Sarasota has long been recognized as Florida’s artistic and cultural epicenter, a distinction dating back to 1927 when John Ringling moved the Winter Quarters of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus to the city from Bridgeport, Connecticut. This decision transformed Sarasota, attracting artists, performers and visionaries who established one of the nation’s most vibrant arts communities.
At the same time, New College of Florida has been a vital part of Sarasota’s intellectual and cultural evolution. Founded in 1960 on land originally part of the Ringling estate, New College has always shared a deep connection with The Ringling Museum. For decades, students and faculty have collaborated with the museum, conducting research, curating exhibitions and engaging in artistic exploration and community events.
Moving The Ringling from FSU in Tallahassee to New College’s stewardship on its neighboring property is not just logical. It ensures the museum’s legacy remains deeply intertwined with Sarasota’s cultural and educational future.
While this transition strengthens local stewardship, it also opens new doors for collaboration with other institutions across Florida, expanding research
partnerships, student engagement and statewide academic initiatives in the arts and humanities.
With New College providing direct oversight, The Ringling Museum not only will sustain its role as one of Florida’s premier cultural institutions, it will also grow in ways that expand access to art, history and performance while ensuring its long-term sustainability and historic preservation.
For New College students, this deepens their connection to Sarasota’s artistic and academic resources, enriching their education while reinforcing New College’s commitment to fostering innovation in the arts. For The Ringling Museum, this transition
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secures its future by increasing resources, expanding programming and research and strengthening community ties.
As New College enters a period of unprecedented growth, the marriage with The Ringling Museum strengthens our role as a premier liberal arts institution that leads, inspires and innovates.
We are proud to take on this responsibility, to champion Sarasota’s artistic and academic legacy and to build upon the foundation that John Ringling laid nearly a century ago, shaping the city’s future for generations to come.
Richard Corcoran is president of the New College of Florida.
When Alan Gravley and Stan Writesel named their Sarasota interior design company Beginning to End Interiors in 2002, it wasn’t just a catchy marketing phrase. The name, often shortened to B2End, reflects both the scope of their expertise and their deep commitment to every project.
“We’re here to help our clients navigate the often overwhelming maze of design and renovation decisions,” says Gravley.
“There are more misconceptions out there than you might think.” Take permitting, for example: Remodeling projects typically require permits and must adhere to specific building codes. A professional ensures your project complies with local regulations and handles the necessary paperwork, minimizing the risk of fines or the need to redo work that doesn’t meet code.
“I usually have a pretty frank and honest conversation with clients before we start to assess needs going forward,” says Gravley. “It’s important to age up with your home and think about things like
making bathrooms ADA-compliant if you plan to stay there.”
That’s where B2End comes in-guiding clients through everything from infrastructure updates and color palettes to reimagining entire floor plans. They help with custom cabinetry, smart lighting systems, and sourcing high-quality, comfortable furniture that fits both
As New College enters a period of unprecedented growth, the marriage with The Ringling Museum strengthens our role as a premier liberal arts institution that leads, inspires and innovates.
lifestyle and space, all while working with trusted contractors and vendors they’ve partnered with for years.
Gravley’s level of experience proves invaluable in times of crisis. Poststorm renovations? B2End has guided restoration of homes hit by floods, recommending resilient materials like Luxury Vinyl Tile over laminate for flooring. Structural damage from hurricanes? They’ve helped rebuild not just walls, but the spirit of homes, with future resilience in mind.
The Beginning to End Interiors team approaches every project-whether a seaside condo refresh or a full home makeover-with thoughtful, tailored design that brings each client’s vision to life. For them, design isn’t just about beauty-it’s about creating spaces that feel like home, from start to finish.
Their design philosophy focuses on the do’s and don’ts of lasting choices. Do invest in timeless, high-quality materials, plan for future needs like ADA-compliant features, and embrace natural light and open layouts. Don’t follow fleeting trends, underestimate the complexity of renovations, or move old furniture into a new space without considering style and practicality.
At B2End, every decision is made with intention, creating functional, beautiful spaces that are perfectly suited to each client’s needs. It’s not just about designit’s about crafting homes that truly feel like home.
RICHARD CORCORAN PRESIDENT, THE NEW COLLEGE OF FLORIDA
The Ringling Museum has been in the hands of Florida State University, but that may shift to New College.
EARLY EXIT
For now, the plans for a community center in Whitney Plaza are halted.
Manatee County entered a four-year lease for the largest space in Whitney Plaza in January 2024 and is now shifting away from the leased space vision.
Hal Porter owns Whitney Plaza on the north end of Longboat Key through his family-owned business, Porter Investment Holdings.
Porter recently received notice from Manatee County’s property acquisition team that the county plans to exit the lease early in August after about a year and a half in the lease.
Manatee County District 3 Commissioner Tal Siddique confirmed the county would prefer not to move forward with the current model of leasing a space and putting money into a space it doesn’t own.
“I’m not necessarily saying it’s off the table, but I don’t think the board would really prioritize putting money toward it,” Siddique said.
Talks about a community center on the north end had been ongoing for about five years before the lease was signed, according to Maureen Merrigan.
Merrigan co-chairs the Longboat Key North group, a coalition of homeowners and condominium associations on the north end of the island.
Longboat Key North appointed a committee, the North End Space Team, to collaborate with Manatee County staff to bring the vision to life in Whitney Plaza.
Upon hearing the news, Merrigan expressed her disappointment.
“It’s a huge disappointment. The community has been working with the county on this for five years before the lease was signed,” Merrigan said. “It’ll be a huge disappointment to the neighborhoods up here, too.”
CONSTRUCTION & COMMUNICATION ISSUES
Merrigan has previously said this space was a community ask of Manatee County, and the north end of the island discussed the need for com-
The county planned to turn the leased space into a community center with adult education classes but now is shifting away from putting money into a leased space.
munity meeting space for a long time before the county’s lease execution.
Then, in January 2024, the lease for the 6,100-square-foot space in Whitney Plaza was executed between Manatee County and Porter Investment Holdings.
The lease had an initial four-year term with the option for two five-
year extensions. The monthly price for the lease was $11,256.67, or about $135,080 for the first year.
After community input sessions to brainstorm ideas about how the space could be used, Manatee County delegated the programming of the space to Manatee Technical College, which would have included adult
Leaxperts™
The front entrance of Manatee County’s leased space at Whitney Plaza.
The 6,100-square-foot space at Whitney Plaza was planned to be converted into a community and learning center on the north end of the island.
Photos by Carter Weinhofer
education classes. The vision for the space also included meeting rooms and art studio space for local artists. The meeting space was a major draw for north-end communities to host association meetings or other community events.
Renovations for the space were estimated to be around $1.2 million, which would have been paid for by the county.
Then, in June 2024, the project team at Manatee County learned the space may be subject to the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s 50% rule since the renovations were near 50% of the building’s value.
Porter said this construction cost seemed too high, especially because the building already had bathrooms and many other fixtures in place. He shared those thoughts with the county.
“I said, ‘That seems like an awful lot of money because the restrooms were already there. The hard costs were already there for anything they wanted to do,’” Porter said.
Still, Porter said the county was silent within the space. No construction occurred.
Then the island was hit by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Porter gave all of his tenants free rent for October 2024 as many businesses were recovering from the storms.
Even though he sent the notice to Manatee County, Porter said Manatee County sent him the rent for the month.
This was one of the first signs Porter saw of a lull in communication from the county, he said.
Porter said he also replaced part of the roof for the plaza space the county was leasing, which cost him $12,000.
When Porter received a call from the county asking him what he was going to do for it after the storms, Porter said he was confused and brought up those two instances.
According to Porter, the space is mostly concrete blocks, which would have mitigated most of the water damage.
“I think it pretty much mitigated everything because the water wasn’t there very long to soak into anything,” Porter said.
He estimates only about a foot of
water entered the space, which may have impacted a few of the walls.
On Feb. 11, Porter received an email from Manatee County to notify him the county would pay through August but leave the lease after that.
Overall, Porter feels the situation was handled incorrectly. He said he knew the community wanted this space, so he tried to make it easy on the tenants — this includes holding the space for the county for eight months, he claimed.
“It was just handled totally wrong,” Porter said. “It wasn’t handled right at all.”
DOOR NOT CLOSED
Siddique confirmed the county would prefer to move on from this space. He pointed to promises of the previous District 3 commissioner, Kevin Van Ostenbridge, as stretching the county’s capabilities.
“When I spoke with the school district, (they said) it really stretched their capabilities. I think the promise made for the school district to program (the space) really stretches beyond what their mission is,” Siddique said.
Another problem Siddique saw was investing what could have been $1.2 million into a space the county did not own.
“Problem two was the fact that we leased the land, we don’t own it,” Siddique said.
“I think that creates some challenges for us because we’re investing a lot of money into properties we don’t own ... I just don’t see why Manatee County should pay for a building that we don’t own.”
Siddique said the north-end community in Longboat Key is an important one for him, and he will try to serve the community.
For now, Siddique said the possibility is not completely gone, but he would like to see more community collaboration, particularly with funding the space.
“I think the model has to shift to be more of a partnership with the community,” Siddique said. “The door isn’t closed on it, but I don’t think I’ll have the votes to put as much money into it at this point.”
ELECT
STEVE BRANHAM
Rear Admiral, U.S. Coast Guard (Retired) For Longboat Key Town Commission At Large – Seat 1
Proven, experienced leader in previous diverse roles:
o Retired from the US Coast Guard
o Senior executive in Disaster Response Management
o Chairman, Town of Longboat Key Consolidated Retirement System
o President, Board of Suncoast Blood Centers
o Real estate advisor for the prestigious Premier Sotheby’s International Realty
o President, Longboat Key Kiwanis Club
o Longboat Key Garden Club Board - 10 years
o Longboat Key Foundation Board
Steve Branham
Spanish Main faces lien
The Servpro company from Michigan filed the lien due to unpaid invoices from the Longboat Key condominium community.
Spanish Main Yacht Club is still in the midst of recovering from Hurricanes Helene and Milton, and now the condominium community is facing a $13.5 million lien from a Servpro crew.
According to the claim of lien document from the Manatee County Clerk of the Courts, Servpro filed the lien on Jan. 20 for $13,521,635.46.
“This claim of lien shall apply against all of the units in the condominium according to their respective percentage of the common expenses of the condominium,” the lien states.
The lien was signed by Cody Michael, who represents Servpro of Saginaw, Michigan.
In a previous article in the Longboat Observer, Spanish Main board members explained the crew was sent from Michigan through collaboration with the Servpro office in Sarasota.
During the immediate response after the hurricanes, the Servpro crew from Michigan assisted the Spanish Main Yacht Club community with demolition and water remediation, thus requiring labor, services and parts, which are explained in the lien.
The total value of that work was $13,521,635.46, according to Servpro in the lien, and that balance remains unpaid.
Servpro did not provide specific information about the situation with the Spanish Main Yacht Club.
“A lien is a common practice used by contractors when payment is not received for work completed. I don’t have any further details to share at this time,” said a spokesperson from Servpro.
According to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, a lien is valid for up to one year, and the property owner has a right to file a Notice of Contest of Lien during that period to fight the lien.
The Florida State Statute describes that a lien can be discharged through a number of methods, first by satisfying the lien to the acceptance of the lienor or lienor’s agent.
If the lien is paid off or the lienor agrees it has been satisfied, then the lienor can submit a satisfaction or release of the lien.
Additionally, if the lienor does not begin an action to enforce the lien within the year period, the lien would be discharged.
Florida State Statute 718.121 states each individual owner of a condominium parcel may relieve their parcel of the lien “by payment of the proportionate amount attributable to his or her condominium parcel.”
With 212 units in Spanish Main, that would be about $63,679 per unit.
Liens may also complicate the process of selling an individual unit or parcel. If the lien holds up and is not satisfied by the property owners, this could also lead to foreclosure.
Board members Joan Sherry, Margaret Dugan and Jeffery Love did not respond to the Observer’s calls as of Feb. 16.
File image
The narrow streets of Spanish Main Yacht Club were lined with piles of debris in late October after Helene and Milton.
Make A Plan.
Longboat Harbour names woman of
Longboat Harbour Condominiums resident Mary Bock was honored for her work to revitalize facilities and other community contributions.
DANA KAMPA STAFF WRITER
s part of a time-honored tradition, the Longboat Harbour Men’s Club orchestrated a brunch celebrating the community’s ladies, and one woman in particular. The club selected Mary Bock for woman of the year, citing her contributions to improving the facilities at Longboat Harbour Condominiums.
Bock said she was delighted to accept the recognition at Sunday’s brunch, which featured quiche, sparkling wine, pastries and other treats dished up by the approximately 20 club members.
To show their appreciation for the women in attendance at the postValentine’s Day celebration, they treated them to the musical stylings of clarinetist Bob Geraci and gave them bright carnations as a parting gift. Central to the celebration was Bock, who has been a staple community member since she and her husband, John, moved to the area in 1996.
“It’s the culmination of a lifetime of joy here at Longboat Harbour,” she said.
In addition to serving as a building representative for 20 years, yacht club commodore and newsletter editor, she and her husband led efforts in the early 2000s to turn a mostly empty space into a dazzling gym for all to enjoy.
“When we first moved here, the gym had two or three pieces of mostly dumped equipment, and it was always broken,” she said. “The board president heard about our trips to the office, trying to get it fixed, and she asked, ‘Would you and John work on the gym and make it a real gym?’”
It took effort to organize the funding and reconstruction, but Bock
said she now considers it one of the nicest facilities on the Key.
The couple has enjoyed seeing it flourish over the years.
“It’s a wonderful, welcoming community, and everybody works hard to keep it that way,” she said, which she noted was especially challenging during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
She said she is glad residents have continued to welcome new generations and build a stronger sense of community.
Men’s Club President Mark Spillersi said Bock’s name came up repeatedly as the club considered whom to award special commendation for its Women’s Appreciation Day. He said she has continually gone above and beyond to make the community a better place.
“We appreciate everything she’s done,” he added.
Former honorees include Karen Pashkow, Ginger Driscoll, Margie Clarke and Bonnie Coughlin.
Dana Kampa
Mary Bock accepts an award from Mark Spillersi, representing the Longboat Harbour Men’s Club.
COPS CORNER
SATURDAY, FEB. 8
MISSING AMONG THE MANGROVES
12:43 p.m., 200 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive
Assist Other Agency: Longboat Key officers were sent to assist in a search for people lost in the mangroves. The original call came from Ted Sperling Park on Lido Key, but the phone’s location showed the callers were near the south end of Longboat Key. Upon arrival, the officers quickly located two women across from a small body of water in the mangroves north of Quick Point Park. The women were able to walk through the shallow body of water toward the officers. They told officers they were exploring, went off the path and got lost in thick mangroves. Both were uninjured and denied medical attention.
NOT A JOKING MATTER
SATURDAY, FEB. 8
PHISHY TEXT REQUEST
9:11 a.m., 3200 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive
Suspicious Incident: Dispatch sent an officer to investigate a resident’s report of a suspicious text message that told her she had to pay Florida tolls via text message. She knew the message was suspicious and did not send any money, and the officer said the message was likely a phishing scam. The resident deleted the message and reported it as junk.
MONDAY, FEB. 10
STILL SUSPENDED
10:58 p.m., 500 block of Yawl Lane Vehicle Stop: While on patrol, an officer noticed a familiar vehicle driving along Gulf of Mexico Drive. According to the report, the driver was previously cited by the same officer for operating a vehicle with a suspended license. The officer followed the vehicle and checked the vehicle’s registration as the driver turned onto a side road. The database confirmed the driver still had a suspended driver’s license, so the officer initiated his patrol vehicle’s lights to conduct an official stop. The driver first claimed he missed his turn, but the officer determined he was attempting to avoid the officer because he knew his license was suspended. The driver was processed for an arrest in the field and issued a citation.
11:55 p.m., 4000 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive
Suspicious Vehicle: An officer patrolling the area noticed a car parked in Bayfront Park after hours near the kayak launch area. As the officer activated his vehicle’s emergency lights and exited his vehicle, the owner of the suspicious vehicle walked around to the rear of his vehicle. The officer asked the man what he was doing in the park, to which the man said he just found out his mother had cancer and was upset. Following procedure, the officer asked the man for his identification and the man said his license and vehicle documents were in his vehicle.
As the man reached into his glove box, he chuckled and said, “I have a gun in here,” according to the police report. The officer immediately told the man to step away from the vehicle and show nothing in his hands. The man was detained and the officer walked him to his patrol vehicle. The man said he was an attorney and claimed this was “a bit much,” but the officer explained he was not under arrest, just detained for the moment due to his gun claim.
Other Longboat Key officers arrived on the scene and determined the man was alone and did not have a gun in immediate reach of his glove box. The man was taken out of the handcuffs and issued a citation for being in the park after hours.
THE BRILLIANT EXCHANGE JEWELRY Buying Event
PREMIUM LOCATION
A pair of Ospreys have built the ultimate homestead with a view of traffic.
rivers passing by the intersection of Gulf of Mexico Drive and Longboat Club Road may have spotted a peculiar sight in recent weeks, or perhaps heard the occasional high-pitched chirping. Those who peered a bit closer at the right time may have discovered that a pair of nesting ospreys have made the busiest street on Longboat Key its newest home.
Amber Paffenroth, avian curator at Save Our Seabirds, said this meeting of wildlife and urban living comes down to the raptor’s preferred habitat.
“Typically, ospreys live in really tall, dead trees,” she said. “A lot of the time, people cut those down because of the risk of them falling on things, especially with hurricanes. But then they don’t have places to nest, so those tall fixtures kind of mimic those tall, dead trees where they nest.”
The Key does have several humanmade nesting platforms, which
builders hoped would deter the birds from nesting on cranes and other necessary infrastructure. Paffenroth said the birds do appear to be using the one located across the street from the center. But that doesn’t mean they won’t make use of other structures.
As with any wild animal, Paffenroth advised that community members observe the ospreys from a safe distance and not to feed wildlife.
Community members may want to keep a close eye on the nest, as the nesting period ends in late February in Florida.
The International Osprey Foundation, based out of Sanibel, said it is especially important to monitor the health of osprey populations considering they are a “sentinel species,” one that signals changes in local environmental conditions.
UPCOMING TRAINING
Being informed about how to safely interact with animals becomes ever more important as they come to live closer together. Anyone in the community who would like to learn more about how to help wild birds in distress is invited to attend a free training session held by Save Our Seabirds. The class takes place from 10-11:30 a.m. on Feb. 22 at 1708 Ken Thompson Parkway.
Instructors will teach attendees about how to identify signs of injury or illness, proper handling techniques and tools, and tips on how to minimize stress for the bird while bringing it to the organization’s rescue center. Email Admin@ SaveOurSeabirds for more information.
mittee. Please RSVP to Amanda Lewis by calling 941-364-3549 or email Amanda.R.Lewis@morganstanley.com.
Left to Right: Rylan Lanham, Adrienne Lambers, Mike Osterman, Tom Bardwell, Susan Wilson, Susan Knight, Amanda Lewis
Dana Kampa
The nest sits above the intersection of Gulf of Mexico Drive and Longboat Club Road.
Step inside to bayfront residences unequaled in Sarasota, perhaps because they open to a panorama of the city’s entire skyline. Here is a stage for expansive living — a breathtaking esplanade, pool terrace, and even, a berth for your boat. This is that once-and-forever moment. Add your name to our early interest list.
Return of snowbirds, and shorebirds
Nesting shorebirds frequent Longboat and Lido Key beaches in the spring and summer months, with the season officially starting on Feb. 15.
ley Short said the shorebirds in this area won’t start to nest until closer to March.
Early spring means the return of snowbirds. It also marks the return of nesting shorebirds.
Shorebirds, such as least terns, black skimmers and snowy plovers, nest along Florida’s coasts and, in the Sarasota area, particularly like some spots on Longboat and Lido keys.
Shorebird breeding season officially began on Feb. 15 for Sarasota and Manatee counties, but Program Manager for Audubon Florida Hol-
Short manages the program through Audubon Florida, which collects volunteers to become shorebird stewards to raise awareness about nesting shorebirds and keep an eye on the colonies once the birds start to nest.
In years past, Lido Key’s black skimmer colony has continued to be strong in the area, but Short wonders how that might change this year given how the beach’s topography changed with Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
The north end of Longboat Key also sees a good amount of shorebird nesting activity, usually with least terns and black skimmers. Snowy plovers also have nested in the Whitney Beach area in the past, Short said.
Nesting shorebird colonies are vulnerable populations. Adult shorebirds use the area to rest or forage for food, and the eggs or chicks can be snatched easily by predators. Sometimes, it’s humans that cause the biggest problems for these species. For colonies like those on the north end of Longboat Key, the surroundings of a location could lead to some issues.
“Nesting near public access areas comes with its own hurdles for the birds to try to get over,” Short said. Last year, a nesting colony of least
terns on the north end of Longboat Key was abandoned. Former Sarasota Shorebird Steward Coordinator Emily Briner suspected from trail camera footage that humans going too close to the nests caused the adults to leave the site altogether.
When heading to the beach during these busy spring months, Short said it’s important people be aware of their surroundings and look out for beach signage and posted nesting sites.
“Keeping an eye out for any signs or areas that are closed to the public is going to be so important because we want to leave those areas undisturbed,” Short said. “Even if you can’t see the bird — which could easily be the case sometimes with snowy plovers — you want to assume that something is there and you don’t want to disturb it.”
Short added eggs and chicks are often well-camouflaged, so beachgoers should remain diligent near nesting shorebird colonies.
This is especially important as the chicks start to explore.
“The posting is to keep us out; it’s not to keep the birds in. They’re going to do whatever they want to do. At some point, the chicks are going to wander outside of the posting,” Short said.
When beachgoers see a large flock of birds, Short said it’s important to walk around the groups and not
walk through them. The adults need to rest and feed, and disturbing them could impact the colony.
This includes keeping dogs away from nesting colonies and only bringing dogs to designated areas, Short said. On Longboat Key, dogs are not allowed on any beaches.
Lastly, Short emphasized the importance of not leaving behind any litter on the beaches, especially scraps of food.
The litter and food scraps could attract scavenger species like crows, gulls and raccoons. Short said, once attracted by the litter, these species would then look for another easy snack nearby — chicks and eggs.
The shorebird steward program for Sarasota will pick up around April, and Short encouraged anyone interested in volunteering to reach out. This program helps to monitor nesting shorebirds in the area and educate the public on these best practices.
Stewards spend a couple of hours on the beaches near nesting colonies to keep an eye on the nesting shorebirds and educate the public about shorebirds. The program will supply interested volunteers with the necessary training and equipment. For more information or to sign up, email FLConservation@Audubon.org.
Images courtesy of Lou Newman
Black skimmer chicks have started to appear on Lido Beach.
Least terns on South Lido Beach compete for a fish.
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Sarasota’s
YOUR NEIGHBORS
STORY BEHIND THE WALL
Historian talks about artist Frank Hopper and St. Mary’s massive mural.
DANA KAMPA STAFF
TWRITER
he mural depicting Jesus splitting bread for those in need strikes a powerful image behind the pulpit of at St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church. The painting, which stretches up to the ceiling on the curved wall at the front of the hall, is a creation of painter Frank Hopper.
His work may be more unique than most community members know, as guest speaker Paul Sykes explained during one of the Women’s Guild’s new events this year.
The guild hosted its first “Art for the Heart” showcase and fundraiser on Feb. 11 at Father Edward Pick Par-
ish Hall. Members volunteered works either by themselves or from their personal collections to be displayed and raffled off to the lucky winners. Art on display included oil and watercolor paintings, handcrafted basketwork, photographs and more. Even the culinary arts were in play with a red, pink and white dessert display.
One artist who shared her work was Susan Gilmore Clarke, who exhibited four prints of her photos. Her subjects ranged from a man vending produce in Cuba to something closer to home, a live heron admiring a heron statue on her patio.
She said she was glad to support the inaugural art event.
ENIGMATIC FRANK HOPPER
Central to the art show was Sykes’ presentation on the church mural.
The art dealer and owner of Art Avenue noted that relatively little is known about the enigmatic Hopper considering he painted a portrait of former President Richard Nixon as he sought reelection, which eventually hung in the White House. He also worked with UNICEF, creating a commissioned piece centered on a baptismal ceremony in Ghana.
Hopper was born in 1924 in a small city in southern Indiana and began working out of a rented space in Siesta Key Village in the 1970s. Sykes jokingly noted that he apparently is no relation of renowned artist Edward Hopper, known for his brooding piece “Nighthawks.”
Sykes said it is fairly rare to see a mural of such scale in churches in America as the one adorning that in Longboat Key.
“In fact, there are so few that I’ve only come across a couple, one being in St. Charles Borromeo Church outside of Philadelphia,” he said.
In addition to the size, the mural is notable for the technical challenge it overcomes by its placement on a curved wall. At the center is Jesus, who appears to make eye contact with the viewer while he splits a loaf and a woman holds up her hands in supplication behind him.
Sykes said his assistant, Elin Li, called the mural “absolutely superb” from a technical standpoint upon seeing it for the first time.
She particularly cited his use of light hitting the figures in the scene and powerful light coming through in the background.
“Nothing can make an artist more famous than the legacy of what he’s left on the walls here of this beautiful cathedral,” Sykes said.
He also credited late church leader Pick for his efforts to bring the artist to this church.
“Nothing can make an artist more famous than the legacy of what he’s left on the walls here of this beautiful cathedral.”
— Guest speaker Paul Sykes
Kay Kochenderfer and event Chair
Linda Olsen thanked attendees for helping make the celebration of local artists a success.
From Pope John Paul II, Kochenderfer quoted, “The purpose of art is nothing less than the upliftment of the human spirit. Artist talent is a gift from God, and whoever discovers it in himself — or herself — has a certain obligation to know that she cannot waste that talent but must develop it ... Make your life a work of art.”
One of the guild’s main fundraising focuses this year is its new legacy scholarship program. Attendees could buy raffle tickets and place them with the piece of art they hoped to take home.
Just before the raffle commenced, attendees had an opportunity to leave their own mark, adding hearts to a tree on canvas. Each heart contained a prayer intention, which Kochenderfer said Father Robert Dziedziak would later offer up for everyone.
Paul Sykes
Linda Olsen, Kay Kochenderfer, Lynn Kennelly and Susan Gilmore Clarke
Kathy Surma and Jorge Varcelotti admire an oil painting by Richard Boyer at the “Art for the Heart” show on Feb. 11.
Photos by Dana Kampa Impressive decorative art adorned one table, including a show-stopping Italian pecan coconut cream cake by Linda Olsen.
Attendees at “Art for the Heart” learned about artist Frank Hopper, who painted the mural at St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church.
JUST A TASTE
Taste and Tunes of the Keys returns on Feb. 27.
Get ready to cruise some cuisine and dance to some ditties. The Longboat Key Garden Club is holding its annual Taste and Tunes of the Keys on Feb. 27, with a dozen restaurants being featured alongside the talents of The Klick Band. Funds raised this year will go toward ongoing Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. To bolster the fundraising, a silent online auction is now open and will remain running until the festival. Auction items include everything from tours of local attractions like Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium to out-of-state vacations, including a trip for two to the 2025 Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs.
To make a bid or a donation, visit LBKGC.BetterWorld.org/Auctions/ TTOTK2025.
A full showcase of the restaurants participating in this year’s festival is available at the Observer website.
Event tickets are $90 for general admission or $100 for admission with guaranteed seating. Admission covers all food samples and includes two free drink vouchers. Tickets are available for purchase online.
IF YOU GO
TASTE AND TUNES OF THE KEYS
When: 6-8:30 p.m. on Feb. 27
Where: Longboat Key Club Harbourside Ballroom, 3000 Harbourside Drive
Tickets: $90 general admission; $100 admission with guaranteed seating.
Info: Visit LBKGardenClub.org.
RESTAURANT RUNDOWN
From sweet treats to Gulf-centric seafood, the following restaurants will be offering bites at the festival. Visit YourObserver.com for the full list.
RESORT’S
LIDO BEACH
DRIFT KITCHEN AND BAR
Type of cuisine: Italian American dishes featuring seafood and oven-fired flatbreads
Address: 700 Benjamin Franklin
Drive Hours: 5-10 p.m. daily; breakfast 7-11 a.m. Mondays to Fridays and 7 a.m. to noon on Saturdays and
Sundays
Price: $$$
Website: OpalCollection.com/
Lido-Beach/Restaurants/Drift
Phone: 388-2161
What are you excited for patrons to try at the Taste and Tunes of the Keys? Our seafood is what we specialize in, and our sourdough-crust pizza is always a hit. — Sebastian Lopez, restaurant supervisor
MAR VISTA DOCKSIDE
RESTAURANT & PUB
Type of cuisine: Elegant, fresh, local, hand-crafted dishes centered around seafood
Address: 760 Broadway St.
Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sundays to Thursdays; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Fridays and Saturdays
Price: $$
Website: MarVistaDining.com
Phone: 383-2391
What are you excited for patrons to try at the Taste and Tunes of the Keys? I don’t eat much fish, and even I love the jalapeñoglazed grouper, and I know everyone else will too. It also has quinoa, sweet potato, almonds, cranberries and a beurre blanc sauce. — Michael Zarrill, assistant general manager
What are you excited for patrons to try at the Taste and Tunes of the Keys? We plan to serve our tuna niçoise. The club looks forward to supporting this event each year, not only because we get to reach out to our Longboat Key neighbors, but more importantly we are continuing to support a community organization that does so much for the island. — Bob Weil, director of food and beverage
VENTURA’S ITALIAN KITCHEN AND WINE BAR
Type of cuisine: Casual Italian, specializing in pizza and pasta
Address: 6814 Gulf of Mexico Drive
Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily
Website: VenturasItalianKitchen. com
Phone: 312-4975
What are you excited for patrons to try at the Taste and Tunes of the Keys? Our Grandma Pizza. It’s a Sicilian-style pizza that originated in Brooklyn, with a crushed San Marzano tomato sauce rather than a smooth one. It has two types of mozzarella cheese, the kind fresh in a ball and the one we prep in-house. Then it’s topped with house-made basil pesto and garlic-roasted olive oil. It’s really good.
ZOTA BEACH RESORT’S
VIENTO KITCHEN + BAR
Type of cuisine: American Italian, with great seafood and prime strip steaks, as well as more casual fare including fish tacos and charcuterie
What are you excited for patrons to try at the Taste and Tunes of the Keys? Recently, we featured some of our homemade ravioli with pork jowl and cheese. While we are finalizing the selection, we will be excited to highlight what is new on our menu with a twist. We’ve had a similar menu for two years, and we’re excited for a change that hopefully locals and guests will enjoy. — Daniel Thompson, food and beverage director
CIRQUE ST. ARMANDS BEACHSIDE’S RINGSIDE (OPENING IN MARCH)
Type of cuisine: Bold flavors and Gulf seafood favorites
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Experience luxury beachfront living in this 3 bed/2.5 bath oasis behind the gates of the Longboat Key Club. Enjoy big bay, city and golf course green views from the
eflecting on his 45 years of serving parishioners since he was first ordained in 1979, the Rev. Phillip Schweda said he has most valued the close connections he’s built within his community.
“They’re very accommodating and welcoming of new people,” he said. “They love when out-of-towners arrive and add to the parish.”
He shared his admiration for how members have continued to unite and move forward, even in the face of obstacles like the significant damage St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church sustained during the hurricanes, and whatever else life brings.
Countless residents turned out for his jubilee celebration, held Sunday afternoon at Lazy Lobster. They noshed on appropriately themed cherries jubilee while sharing stories about the reverend’s tenure.
Schweda has served as a parochial vicar of St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church, a reverend at St. Bernard Church in Holmes Beach and a judge in the Tribunal of the Diocese of Venice, primarily focusing on marriage counseling and annulments.
He began his spiritual journey at another arm of St. Mary in his home state
of Michigan and knew right out of high school that he wished to join a religious order. Motivated in his quest for enlightenment, he pursued degrees in theology and church law.
After retiring early from the Diocese of Lansing, he moved to Florida, where his new church was in need of a lawyer.
“I sent in my resume, and the Bishop (Frank Dewane) asks, ‘Can you start next month?’ That was 10 years ago,” Schweda recalled.
He said he appreciates the tight-knit communities of Longboat and Anna Maria Island and looks forward to continuing to do his best to build them up.
Linda Olsen, who coordinated the anniversary celebration, said she has many fond memories of working with the reverend. One particularly joyful one was when he had to navigate getting into his smart car while sporting a large hat and poncho for a Cinco de Mayo-themed get-together.
“He is a delightful person — he truly is,” she said. “He is funny and very kind.”
Schweda offered his thanks to Olsen and fellow congregation members for helping him celebrate such a milestone in his career.
— DANA KAMPA
Michael Garey, Linda Olsen, the Rev. Phillip Schweda and Luan Morrow
Dana Kampa
Cardio dance: Healthy heart, healthy mind!
A cardio workout promotes heart health but also creates a disciplined routine that helps improve memory.
February is Heart Month, and I’ll take any excuse to promote heart-healthy exercise. And now there’s proof that this activity also works out your brain.
I became interested in cardio dance and memory several years ago when my older students began to tell me that their memories seemed to improve after they took my class.
I was teaching mostly cardio dance in those days. I started with
simple steps and built up to a pretty complex routine.
There has to be a connection, I thought, between the physical movement, making your brain learn this routine, and improved memory.
I’m no scientist, but I was curious. So, I started to break it down. What I was having people do is learn short phrases of movement and then link them together. The cardio dance routine required them to move forward and back, side to side, remember specific steps, sometimes while using fitness equipment, and stay in rhythm.
This was a real challenge for many of my students who had never done anything like this before. As they got more proficient, the class became a social gathering because of this shared experience.
My students felt energized afterward, not exhausted. They
told me that besides getting a good body workout, they were getting a memory workout as well. They said they could actually remember things better.
I wondered if there was science to support our anecdotal experience.
I contacted a couple of local Alzheimer’s specialists and they told me — you’re probably right, but there weren’t any specific studies on this yet.
Fast forward to today and there is now a large body of research that supports a link between heart health and brain health, as well as between learning a dance routine and cognitive health.
Studies reveal that people with heart disease have a greater chance of developing cognitive issues.
Vascular memory loss has been linked to heart disease and cardio fitness is a major factor in preventing and managing that issue.
Aerobic exercise increases the amount of oxygen supplied to the brain, improving mental function. Cardio fitness has been shown to reduce loss of brain cells in older adults. But cardio fitness is just part of the equation. Research also shows that learning and performing those dance steps further maintains cognitive sharpness
A Harvard study finds that certain types of dance, particularly with routines to learn and remember, helps prevent ageonset memory loss and diseases like Alzheimer’s. So, ACTIVITY is the active word, not just dance, everything. The data is in. People living a healthy lifestyle are less likely to develop heart disease or dementia. It says: Be physically active, mentally active and socially active, preferably all at once. Taking a Cardio Dance class
or getting together with friends to do a Cardio Dance video or go out line dancing is a good place to start. I’m not shy about letting my students know how important activity can be.
To this day, when I start my cardio dance class I say, “It’s time to work out our hearts and minds!”
Mirabai Holland is CEO of NuVue LLC, a Health Education Company. She is a certified health coach, exercise physiologist and wellness consultant for Manatee County government employees and has a consulting and private coaching practice. Her wellness programs are implemented in hospitals, fitness facilities, resorts, and corporations worldwide. She is also an artist who believes creativity enhances health. Visit MirabaiHolland.com Contact at AskMirabai@MovingFree.com.
Be Part of an Extraordinary Tradition
At The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort, every moment is an invitation to embrace life’s exquisite rituals in an atmosphere of timeless elegance and exclusivity.
Unlock the ultimate privilege of timeless luxury with The Members Club at The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort. As a member, you gain more than exclusive access – you enter a private sanctuary where indulgence is effortless.
Engage in immersive water experiences at the pools or unwind beachside where every need is met at the touch of a button. Let us curate bespoke celebrations to honor life’s milestones, setting the stage for your cherished family memories. Cultivate lasting connections with fellow members during thoughtfully designed gatherings and signature events. Enjoy a range of incomparable chef-driven culinary experiences and soak in sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Elevate your lifestyle and become part of a tradition steeped in cherished rituals and intuitive hospitality.
Your Invitation Awaits
MIRABAI HOLLAND CONTRIBUTOR
Road to Longboat Key: Highwaymen art comes for special display
Works by 22 of the renowned 26 Highwaymen artists are on display at The Education Center for one week only.
DANA KAMPA STAFF WRITER
Twenty-six artists. One vision. Community members delved into the legacy of the Highwaymen artists with a lecture by Kevin Costello on Feb. 11.
Costello, the educational director for The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art and a studio artist and instructor at Ringling College of Art and Design, stood before the packed lecture hall, using a pointer to illustrate on a screen how the artists used contrasting colors and subtle geometric framing to capture Old Florida’s iconic landscapes.
The Education Center displayed the works of 22 of the artists in its halls until Feb. 16, made possible through an anonymous donor, to recognize Black History Month.
Community members, including Charles Bosserman, who affectionately remembers purchasing works by one of the artists, took time after the lecture to view the art, pointing out the elements illuminated by the guest lecturer.
Costello started by acknowledging how unique the Highwaymen community is. The cohort of mostly African American artists worked together, often painting in the same field at the same time, and successfully pursued commercial success and recognition for their work. Their paintings often had similar subjects, like the eye-catching scarlet royal poinciana and looping trunks of palm trees. Their works often focused on nature scenes in swamps and on beaches, with minimal focus on human figures. The artists gained their moniker from selling their paintings out of their cars, often for $20-$30 a piece.
Leading the charge was Florida native Albert E. “Beanie” Backus, considered the “dean” of the group. They made a tradition of welcoming
in new artists, including Alfred Hair, who played a key role in the marketing element of their art.
“In a short period of time, Hair’s enterprise grew into a full-fledged business,” Costello said. “A growing group of salesmen took the artists’ work out on the road and sold them to doctors’ offices, motels and other professional and retail establishments — no mean feat in the Jim Crow-era South, where galleries and traditional venues for artists were off-limits to Black painters.
“While Backus himself and the majority of his clientele were white, young Black artists discovered in Backus a welcoming mentor in whose paintings they could find inspiration, a style they could emulate, and a marketability upon which they could expand,” Costello said.
The artists shared certain elements and subjects, but they also showed their personal flare. Costello pointed out the Salvador Dali-esque surreal elements of Hair, and the pointillism in others’ work. Several of the artists, including Hezekiah Baker, also favored using thick layers of paint to bring extra textural elements to their works, the full effect only coming to light when seen in person.
These artists had to contend with the social injustices of the time, but also with deeply personal loss. Hair was shot and killed in 1970 at 29 years old.
Costello said they produced an estimated 200,000 works that now hold a special place in the state’s artistic fabric.
Officials inducted the central 26 artists to the Florida Artists Hall of Fame in 2004.
The center’s display notably includes works by artist Mary Ann Carroll, the lone woman in the cohort and a favorite artist of former first lady Michelle Obama.
Although the display is over, art appreciators can find their works in other places, including the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture and the Museum of Florida History.
Photos by Dana Kampa
Lecturer Kevin Costello
Charles Bosserman views one of the many Highwaymen Artists paintings being displayed at The Education Center.
Community members take in the Highwaymen art on display.
Expert tackles ‘grief brain’ and other factors in loss
Seminar attendees learned about recognizing the symptoms of grief.
DANA KAMPA STAFF WRITER
Savor the Sounds Savor the Sounds Savor the Sounds Musical Concert Series Savor the Sounds Savor the Sounds
Longboat Key • 2020
Saturday, March 1st
Saturday, March 15st
Saturday, April 19th EASY STREET BAND
5:30 pm - 8 pm (Gates open at 4:30 pm) 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm
FEATURING TALENTED LOCAL MUSICIANS
Town Center Green - Karon Family Pavilion 600 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key
Come out and ‘Savor the Sounds’ with live music and food trucks in an elegant, yet casual outdoor picnic setting. Bring your own picnic basket and coolers, set up with lawn chairs, or purchase tables for your group and enjoy a relaxing evening!
$250 (Table of 8) Advance purchase only. Limited availability.
Purchase online at www.longboatkeychamber.com or contact the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce at (941) 383-2466, Monday - Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, or visit us at 5390 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Suite 102, Longboat Key
rief manifests itself in different ways for each person, but it can be helpful to know how to recognize its symptoms and ways to cope. Grief Care Counselor Carly Weiss led a free seminar hosted by The Tidewell Foundation on Feb. 12 as part of its community lecture series at The Paradise Center.
Attendees shared their reasons for seeking insights on grief management, from the losses they experienced during the hurricanes to parting with a long-time partner.
Weiss, who is a licensed clinical social worker, broke down grief management into four tasks, starting with accepting the reality of loss.
“It’s not something that we get over or overcome or become better from,” she said. “It’s something we learn to live with and carry on our shoulders.”
She noted grief often germinates with a traumatic event, be it the loss of a family member, divorce, change in financial state, retirement, pet loss, illness or any number of distressing situations. People can also struggle with secondary losses, like financial hardship after the death of a loved one.
Her patients often experience a spectrum of reactions to loss, including the “grief brain” that leaves them feeling sluggish, forgetful and in a fog.
People often experience physical symptoms as well, including shortness of breath, lack of energy, pain, insomnia, loss of appetite, nausea and headaches.
She said these reactions are normal, and tackling the central tasks to work through grief can help with symptoms. The steps are processing
IF YOU GO
CARING FOR THE CAREGIVER
What: The Tidewell Foundation is hosting this free seminar to share information on protecting one’s well-being while caring for others.
When: Noon to 1 p.m., March 12
Where: The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road Info: Call 383-6493.
the pain, adjusting to the new circumstances, and finding new connections.
She noted that grief doesn’t follow any specific timeline or template. But what is most important is to keep seeking ways to grow in whatever way is helpful. Often, patients benefit from finding ways to maintain a connection with whoever they have lost, she said. For example, one father who lost his son dedicated time to playing music he and his late son both enjoyed or writing him letters.
“He was finding ways to connect with them and remember them,” she said.
Anyone interested in seeking support can call 941-845-3061 or visit TidwellGriefCare.org to learn more about the specific services offered.
Dana Kampa Tidewell Foundation Grief Care counselor Carly Weiss and President Delesa Morris offer a free presentation on grief management.
Annual Gulf Shore rummage sale focuses on rebuilding
Early bird patrons of the Trash to Treasure rummage sale at Gulf Shore Park hoped to find some special gem on Valentine’s Day as they delicately sorted through the assortment of scented candles, seaside-themed decor, jewelry, blankets, furniture and several thousand other items.
The annual sale, which co-Chair Kim Fenwick said will support hurricane recovery projects in the park, took place this weekend. The resident-geared early sale took place Friday, and the sale open to the public happened Saturday afternoon.
In the past, the rummage sale proceeds have made it possible for residents to secure a communal
hospital-grade AED kit, new club house shutters and other amenities to the benefit of all.
This year, they are focused on financing repairs from Hurricane Helene, though they were still working to prioritize specific projects among all the work to be done.
“We need the money more than ever because of all the damage,” Fenwick said.
The sale community has also supported various local charities such as Habitat for Humanity and Goodwill.
Those seeking a bigger prize could enter the basket raffle, which featured items like a wine kit — beverage included — and
hand-crafted deco-mesh wreath with a welcome sign. The drawing was called at noon on Saturday.
Co-Chair Susie Hettmansperger, who wasn’t able to attend the early bird sale, once again helped make this year’s sale a success, both as a fundraiser and a social event for the community.
The sale has been a staple on the community calendar for more than two decades. Several attendees said they have been regulars for many years, seeking out unique birthday gifts and other goodies.
“Everybody always had a good time,” Fenwick added.
She noted the team collects items for the sale throughout the year, hoping to find homes for items that would otherwise go to waste at prices that can’t be beat. Because the items come from community donations, patrons never know what surprises may await them every year.
— DANA KAMPA
Photos by Dana Kampa
Carol Ann searches for treasures.
Kay Heigle and Kim Fenwick
Special displays include jewelry and masquerade items.
Shopping pals Stella Kelley and Mary Lou Ivaska peruse the selection at the early bird Trash to Treasure rummage sale.
Condominium tops week’s sales at $4.15 million
ADAM
HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR
Jonathan Sisler, of Sarasota, sold his Unit 504 condominium at 455 Longboat Club Road to Andary Land Investments LLC for $4.15 million. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths and 3,685 square feet of living area. It sold for $2,865,000 in 2024.
THE SHORE Stephen and Linda Jackson, of Longboat Key, sold their Unit 301 condominium at 5757 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Gregory and Mandi Loudon, of Minerva, Ohio, for $1.6 million. Built in 1973, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,236 square feet of living area.
FEB. 3-7
TANGERINE BAY CLUB
Sean Duane, of Tampa, sold his Unit 525 condominium at 380 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Peter Kelsey and Brenna Casey, of Boston, for $1.3 million. Built in 1994, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,255 square feet of living area. It sold for $850,000 in 2011.
McCALL’S BEACH CASTLE
Huntco Partners LP sold the Unit 6 condominium at 5311 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Ryan and Danielle Asterita, of Parrish, for $845,000. Built in 1973, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 1,110 square feet of living area.
LONGBOAT HARBOUR
Angela Michaud, trustee, of Manchester, New Hampshire, sold the Unit 104 condominium at 4440 Exeter Drive to Bernard and Gretchen Skar, of Longboat Key, for $440,000. Built in 1970, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,152 square feet of living area. It sold for $210,000 in 2011.
Image courtesy of Alex Korobov, Vuzario Real Estate Marketing
The condo at 455 Longboat Club Road has three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths and 3,685 square feet of living area.
Spring programs upcoming at The Education Center
Director encourages everyone to mark their calendars for center’s concerts and lectures coming up in March.
The Education Center
takes
technology and more for spring.
Program Director Susan Goldfarb said there is plenty to anticipate this year, especially when it comes to music.
The musical entertainment continues with the concert nights from 7:30-8:30 p.m. The Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe presents the “Men of Soul” on March 9, focusing on the late 1960s with songs by Sam Cooke, James Brown and Otis Redding. Carl Kurtyka, the center’s own tech director, presents “Let’s Groove to the Music” at 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. on March 23, featuring soul, funk, blues, R&B, and rock ’n’ roll. Pianist Jesse Martins and clarinetist Sergey Gutorov perform their “Kaleidoscope” show on March 30, taking a musical journey around the world.
“We have quite a variety with the lecture series this year,” Goldfarb said.
Tuesday lectures continue at 3 p.m., with “Balancing the Environment and Development” by conservationist Jon Thaxton on March 4, “The Enchanting Aurora” by astronomy educator Chap Percival on March 11, “A Journey through the Intestinal Tract” by Dr. Isaac Kalvara on March 18, and “The Artistry of Dance and Theater Photography” by professional photographer Sorcha Augustine on March 25. Multipart spring classes begin March 3, and subjects include keeping up with technology, Ted Talks, Henri Matisse, “The Dark Side of the White House,” Bollywood, communication techniques, widow support, musical theater and more. The center will also continue its recurring programs, including yoga, piano lessons, bridge, nature walks, movie nights and others. Events take place at the center at 567 Bay Isles Road. For information about upcoming events and programs, visit TBIEducationCenter. org. Those who are interested can register online, by email at Admin@ TBIEducationCenter.org or call 941383-8222. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays.
DANA KAMPA STAFF WRITER
Susan Goldfarb, program director at The Education Center, speaks with attendees at a recent showing of works by the Highwaymen Artists.
Dana Kampa
Jules Mackie | Tracey Stetler | Nicholle DiPinto McKiernan | Patrick DiPinto | Rene DiPinto | Steven Moore | Janet Coughlin
Navigating the complexities of The “Bainbridge Promise”
THE “BAINBRIDGE PROMISE”
That promise is backed up by action. From the beginning, JL Bainbridge has adhered to a feeonly model and a commitment to client satisfaction. “From day one, our founder, Jerry Bainbridge, promised that if a client is ever unhappy, we’ll return our fee - no questions asked,” says Leeming. Regardless of investment size, personalized service is assured.
“Elsewhere, even if you have $1$2 million, you may end up with an 800 number,” says Leeming.
Medicare, estate, healthcare, and more,” he adds.
MULTIGENERATIONAL OVERSIGHT
JL Bainbridge’s commitment to long-term, multigenerational relationships is close to Leeming’s heart. “I’m working with the third generation in some families— grandparents, parents, and the 20- and 30-somethings together. That’s how you truly manage generational wealth,” says Leeming.
This approach allows meaningful client relationships and helps families build lasting legacies.
*Leeming shares a story of a longtime client, a tough business leader, who recently sought his help. “He told me he was starting to have some issues that were ‘scaring the hell out of him’ and he wanted me to get things organized for his family.”
IN PERPETUITY
“Here every client, even those with 250K, gets a dedicated portfolio manager and access to personalized planning for
JL Bainbridge is here to stay — a Sarasota-based, privately owned firm with a commitment to its clients and community. “We have a succession plan that ensures JL Bainbridge will continue in perpetuity,” says Leeming. “We’re not interested in selling. We own our building on Main Street and are dedicated to our clients and team members.”
YOUR CALENDAR
FRIDAY, FEB. 21
ANTIQUE BOUTIQUE
CELEBRATES
2-4 p.m. at 5380 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Steff’s Stuff Antiques celebrates its 17th anniversary of serving the community with its high-end treasures on consignment. Visit SteffsStuffLBK.com to learn more.
SATURDAY, FEB. 22
BECOME A RESCUER
10-11:30 a.m. at 1708 Ken Thompson Parkway. Save Our Seabirds is holding a free training for the public on how to handle wild birds that are injured or in distress and safely transport them to the center for care. Email Admin@SaveOurSeabirds.org.
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 26
DEMENTIA PREVENTION
1:30-2:30 p.m. at the Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Dr. Mindy Ward, a board-certified internal medicine physician, is giving a free seminar on dementia prevention, going over the 14 key risk factors and how to protect brain health. Call 383-6493 with questions.
RECURRING EVENTS
MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS, THURSDAYS AND FRIDAYS LONGBOAT LIBRARY
10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 555 Bay Isles Road. Call 383-6493.
MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND FRIDAYS PUMPING THE PRIME
10 a.m. at Bayfront Recreation Center, 4052 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Led by Mirabai Holland, classes focus on low-impact cardio and muscle-toning strength exercises. Recommended that participants can readily lower to and rise from the floor. Cost is $10 for members; $15 for nonmembers. Email Mirabai@ MovingFree.com or call 956-1466.
TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS
PILATES SCULPT
9-9:50 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Pilates Sculpt, led by Wellness Director Debby Debile, is a combination class mixing traditional Pilates exercises into a fun, challenging workout with upbeat music. It will make you sweat, encourage your body to burn
BEST BET THURSDAY, FEB. 27
TASTE AND TUNES OF THE KEY
6-8:30 p.m. at Longboat Key Club Harbourside Ballroom, 3000 Harbourside Drive. The Longboat Key Garden Club presents an evening of spectacular music and dining, featuring a dozen local restaurants. General admission is $90; admission with reserved seating is $100. Visit LBKGardenClub.org.
calories, and make you stronger and more flexible. This class is for all levels. Cost is $20. Walk-ins welcome. Call 383-6493.
TUESDAYS AND FRIDAYS
QIGONG
10-11 a.m. Tuesdays and 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Fridays at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Experienced instructor Sandi Love leads classes designed to improve mental and physical well-being with gentle moves. Cost is $20 for one-class pass for members. Call 383-6493.
WEDNESDAYS MIDWEEK MEDITATION
2-2:30 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Reiki Master Amy Steinhauser offers sessions on mindfulness, including breathing exercises, guided meditation and the calming sounds of crystal bowls, chimes and gongs. Sessions are free, but donations are welcome. Call 383-6493.
File image
Eric Corona with a tuna poke cone
NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH
FORECAST
MOON PHASES
TIDES
Thursday, Feb.
“AFPUDGPUA GD’A FBZJ DF TGIU
JFMCAUVO Z NZD FE DWU XZHB ZES AZJ, ‘DWZD YZA HFFV. DWZD PZSU PU OUUV TFFS.’” AUXZADGZE ADZE
