Key Life Summer 2023

KEYLIFE

THE BARRIER ISLANDS’ COMMUNITY, NATURE, STYLE SUMMER 2023

SWEET DREAMS Cool treats for the hot summer days ahead.

ROGER SELLS

LUXURY WATERFRONT PROPERTIES

Dear Neighbor, Welcome to 2023 in Sarasota! We are enjoying a busy real estate season, and we have exciting new homes to show you. The Sarasota real estate market continues to be strong. Buyers recognize how wonderful our beautiful city is, with our gorgeous beaches, dining, shopping, and world-class culture all woven into a mid-size, friendly community.

Please contact us to help you search for your Sarasota dream home, or to sell your home with our award-winning marketing strategies.

Best

Roger Pettingell

#1 SARASOTA AGENT 2008 - 2022

415 L’AMBIANCE DRIVE #PH-A

$12,000,000

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Discover the finest penthouse in Sarasota at this gorgeous, top-floor residence at L’Ambiance, just a few steps from the Longboat Key Club. Spectacular views from the Gulf to the Bay and downtown’s city skyline welcome you. The recent designer updates throughout this 3BR, 5,100+ SF residence are the perfect complement to the luxurious Gulf-to-bay lifestyle.

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CALL TODAY FOR YOUR EXCLUSIVE TOUR (941) 387-1840 443 John Ringling Boulevard, Suite F | Sarasota, FL 34236 595 Bay Isles Road, Suite 250 | Longboat Key, FL 34228 Pettingell.com | Roger@Pettingell.com Twitter.com/RealRoger | Instagram.com/RogerPettingell Owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC

97 SOUTH WASHINGTON DRIVE

$11,500,000

7652 SANDERLING ROAD

$10,880,000

Experience this stunning bayfront estate in person! Just a sunny walk from famed St. Armands Circle. Situated on two lots in a corner location, spanning more than a half-acre, this impressive 5BR residence is set among lush, professionally managed greenery on the deep water of Sarasota Bay.

This spectacular Siesta Key beach home is a one-of-a-kind experience! Directly overlooking the coastal landscape of the Gulf of Mexico, this private estate rests on more than an acre, with 172’ of beach! Designed to highlight the sparkling Gulf and striking sunset vistas you can enjoy from any room of this gorgeous beachfront estate.

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1172 HORIZON VIEW DRIVE

$6,995,000

217 BIRD KEY DRIVE

$2,195,000

Direct beachfront opportunities are a rarity on Siesta Key! This lovely beach home offers more than 100’ of water frontage and is waiting for you to add your custom touches, or move right in. The three leveled, nearly 4,000 SF of living space welcomes you with walls of glass, clean lines, cathedral ceilings, Olympic pool, and beach in the backyard.

An ideal Bird Key lifestyle is immediately ready to enjoy at this charmingly updated, contemporary garden home. Renovated by Ampersana Construction in 2014, the 3BR layout encompasses nearly 2,500 SF of light and bright living space to make your own.

Just a sunny walk or bike ride from the bayfront Bird Key Park.

www.1172HorizonView.com

www.217BirdKeyDrive.com

3030 GRAND BAY BOULEVARD #346 $2,795,000

3040 GRAND BAY BOULEVARD #251 $2,495,000

455 LONGBOAT CLUB ROAD #603 $2,295,000

Move right in and begin enjoying the panoramic, direct views of Sarasota Bay, Harbourside golf course, Moorings Marina, and downtown abounding throughout this lovely 3BR, corner residence.

Sunny bay views welcome you to this 5th-floor Antigua residence, featuring a open concept, 3BR layout waiting for you to add your personal touches. Includes two deeded parking and private beach club access.

Gorgeous Gulf-to-bay views are the star of the show as soon as you enter this 3BR beach retreat. Behind the exclusive gates of Longboat Key Club, you will appreciate making this getaway your own.

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www.GrandBay251.com

www.ThePierre603.com

Artistry Passion Perfection Our professionalism in collaborating with clients, and our accountability and attention to detail, offer a proven track record in delivering a high-quality, impeccably built home. Our team is there every step of the way - from the first discussion to the day you step over the threshold. We are here to build the home of your dreams.

Call 941.361.1300 for your private tour of our Corporate Offices and Design Center today!

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Siesta Key Key | A4460292 | $4,199,000 Siesta | A4460292 | $4,199,000 Siesta Key | Loebker A4460292 |&$4,199,000 BrianBrian & Jonathan Abrams | 941.735.4393 Loebker Jonathan Abrams | 941.735.4393 Brian Loebker & Jonathan Abrams | 941.735.4393

Siesta Key | A4564248 | $7,900,000 Sarasota | A4450740 | $3,890,000 Sarasota A4450740 | $3,890,000 Denise Mei | | 941-685-3198

Jimenez || 941.356.3970 Melba Jimenez | 941.356.3970 SarasotaMelba | A4450740 $3,890,000 Melba Jimenez | 941.356.3970

Siesta Key | A4559353 | $4,400,000 Sarasota A4425602 $3,849,000 Sarasota | A4425602 |Wittig, $3,849,000 Ian| Addy, PA & |Gail LLC | 941-961-8850

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Spending time withwith loved ones, passing on on traditions andand sharing Spending time loved ones, passing traditions sharing memories are what makes a house a home.

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CONTENTS SUMMER 2023

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INTO THE FOREST An exploration of Lido’s mangrove tunnels reveals the heart of our coastal ecosystem.

Photo by Heidi Kurpiela

FEATURES

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LWR LIFE

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CHILL OUT It’s about to get steamy.

Here are some cool treats that guarantee smiles.

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VISION TO REALITY The Bay Park begins to take shape — and it’s just getting started.

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CONTENTS

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DEPARTMENTS 18

FROM THE EDITOR 27

HOT TOPICS Meet Longboat Key’s new town manager, honor a Siesta Key icon with this new rum and dig into Longboat’s history.

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KEY PEOPLE The former CEO of Pepperidge Farm shares her tales of success — and why retiring on Bird Key is the sweetest part.

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MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Save Our Seabirds takes off on expansion plans for the nonprofit.

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CALENDAR Enjoy life on the keys to the fullest with these summertime events.

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STYLE For your summer update, take your cues from the hues all around us.

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OASIS This famous Siesta Key property shares the tale of two houses — one of which is legendary.

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ART AND ABOUT Culture isn’t just for adults. These summer camps are guaranteed to get kids hooked on the arts early.

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BEHIND THE MENU The owner of Pop’s Sunset Grill honors his restaurant’s roots — and its shrimp Rangoon.

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KEY ENCOUNTERS

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INTEGRIT Y •

Tenacity • E X P E R I E N C E

It’s an honor to be ranked among the top 1.49% of all Realtors® nationwide, Stacy’s work ethic and reputation have earned her this designation along with your support and referrals.

Connect with Stacy Haas today to discuss your goals.

Her professionalism and commitment remain unmatched.

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#1 Michael Saunders Agent Lakewood Ranch 2022

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Five Star “Best in Client” Award 2007-2023

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Million Dollar Guild Elite (GUILD) Recognition by the Institute of Luxury Home Marketing®

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Over 30 Years’ Real Estate & Interior Design Experience

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941.587.4359 StacyHaas@michaelsaunders.com

StacyHaas.com Sold Over $575 Million in Career Sales Volume 2007-2022

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Specializing in luxury properties in both Sarasota and Manatee counties, Stacy’s award-winning service gives you the results you require and the experience you expect.

KEYLIFE THE BARRIER ISLANDS’ COMMUNITY, NATURE, STYLE

SUMMER CAMP

President and Publisher — Emily Walsh

JUNE 5 – AUGUST 4 (1 and 2 week sessions)

EDITORIAL

Join us for the most unique summer camp around!

Ages 6-15. Kids will:

Executive Editor and COO — Kat Wingert Managing Editor — Su Byron Design — Melissa Leduc and Nicole Thompson

• Test their balance • Increase confidence • Try multiple circus disciplines

Contributors Amy Bentley, Lesley Dwyer, Marty Fugate, Nancy Guth, Kelly Fores, Mark Gordon, Robert Plunket, Lori Sax, Harry Sayer and Abby Weingarten

SUMMER CIRCUS OTNICSKAELTES NOW SPECTACULAR

ADVERTISING Director of Advertising — Jill Raleigh Advertising Managers — Kathleen O’Hara, Penny Nowicki and Lori Ruth

FRI JUNE 9 – SAT AUG 12

An all-star international cast presented in partnership with The Ringling, in the Historic Asolo Theater. See the hilarious comedians “Dick Monday and Slappy” seen on tv and film. Be amazed and awed by the strength of the Alexis Brothers – hand balancers of Cirque du Soleil fame. And much much more!

Advertising Executives — Richeal Bair, Beth Jacobson, Jennifer Kane, Honesty Mantkowski, Toni Perren, Laura Ritter and Brenda White

CREATIVE SERVICES Director of Creative Services — Caleb Stanton Creative Services Administrator — Marjorie Holloway

CIRCUS ARTS CLASSES

Graphic Designers — Luis Trujillo, Taylor Poe, Louise Martin and Shawna Polana

It’s never to late to join the circus! Whether you’re super fit, or just getting back into shape, we have the perfect class for you!

• Train with professional coaches • Single classes or series offered • Youth sampler, aerial silks, flying trapeze

CONTACT KEY LIFE To submit story ideas or calendar listings, contact Kat Wingert at KWingert@YourObserver.com.

For advertising inquiries, call 941-366-3468.

The Circus Arts Conservatory is a 501(c)(3) non-profit performing arts educational organization.

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For Tickets or More Information, go to CircusArts.org

Key Life is published three times a year by the Observer Media Group in November, February and May.

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Photo by Heidi Kurpiela

The mangrove tunnels off the south end of Lido Key are home to all kinds of critters, including this tricolored heron, affectionately named “Henry” by a local guide.

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE

A

s a Colorado native, I must admit, I used to scoff when I heard people talk about how they love Florida for its nature.

For me, “nature” meant big snow-capped mountains, ridges filled with trees as far as you could see, and big, scary beasts ranging from bears to bison wandering around.

But while Florida may not have the people-free views a mountain that spends most of its year covered in snow can offer, I have realized something in 15-plus years of living in Sarasota: Upon a closer inspection, it’s every bit as wild.

Although our landscape is a bit more crowded with homo sapiens and their creations, it has another thing going for it: We barely have to leave home to be immersed in nature — especially on the keys.

As contributor Lesley Dwyer’s story on Lido Key’s mangrove tunnels shows (Page 62), you don’t even have to leave town to escape to another world, one in which you’re surrounded by nature.

These tunnels show how living on a coast means the ecosystem that supports our living things is all around

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us. Which is also why we have to work to keep it protected and healthy.

On that front, our area is home to numerous organizations dedicated to protecting this ecosystem and everything in it. Contributor Eric Snider highlights one such nonprofit, Save Our Seabirds, which specializes in saving animals of the winged variety. Read all about how its post-pandemic recovery and plans for expansion on Page 46.

Another is The Bay Park Conservancy, which is restoring natural areas on Sarasota’s bayfront (Page 88). With the completion of its first phase, the organization removed feet of toxic silt from the bayou, improved stormwater filtration and planted Florida-friendly flora. In doing so, it fulfilled another one of its goals, which is to increase access to these wild areas so the public can learn about them and enjoy them.

So the next time you feel like you need to get away, you need not go far to get your nature fix. Just pause and look around — you’re surrounded.

Kat Wingert Executive Editor

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BETSY DE MANIO & JACKIE EBERLEY

Betsy, the number one agent in the Siesta Key office for 29 years, and her daughter Jackie are both Certified Waterfront Specialists and Global Luxury Specialists. By building client trust through integrity, dedication, communication, and determination, they are amongst the top 3% of Coldwell Banker agents worldwide. Their extensive market knowledge and strong negotiation skills ensure favorable outcomes.

2 0 1 - 2 3 3 - 1 9 5 9 | JAC K I E @JAC K I E E B E RL E Y.C O M DE MA NI O E B E RL E YG RO UP.C O M

TOM "WOODY" WOODWARD

Born in Columbus, Ohio and now a resident of Siesta Key, I have been serving my clients for more than 30 years. I am true people person, and I have a passion to help my clients and ensure the transaction is as seamless as possible. I am the Realtor you can trust to keep it Real.

6 1 4 - 3 4 8 - 8 5 7 8 | TO M.WO O DWA RD @C B RE A LT Y.C O M WOO DYSE L L S SRQ.C O M

LINDA REN

Originally from Michigan, I moved to Sarasota in 2005. I am a licensed real estate broker in Florida and a Certified Waterfront Specialist. Most of my career in Michigan was spent in the real estate and mortgage industry, managing our family-owned mortgage brokerage for over 20 years. Exceptional customer service is my goal!

9 4 1 - 9 2 8 - 1 3 9 3 | L I NDA .RE N@F LO RI DA MOVE S.C O M L I N DA RE NSE L L S SRQ.C O M

JULIA MONTEI

I am best known for my winning attitude, connections throughout the country and proven track record. I am Certified Waterfront Property Specialist, Global Luxury Property Specialist and achieved Guild recognition through Institute for Luxury Home Marketing. I use my knowledge, keen business sense and negotiation skills to get the job done for my clients.

9 4 1 - 7 0 2 - 3 0 9 8 | J UL I A .MO NT E I @C B RE A LT Y.C O M J U L I A MO NT E I .C O M

SIE STA K E Y O F F IC E | 5 1 4 5 OC E A N BLVD, S A R ASOTA , FL ©2022 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. 388591-1

JULIE PONDER

Sharing time between Park City UT and Siesta Key FL, I am uniquely positioned to help beach and mountain lovers find their perfect home or investment property.

A decade in consulting and 30 years of real estate experience honed my distinct skill set to better serve my clients. I'm thrilled to be in the top 3% of CB agents worldwide, I would love to talk to you about your real estate journey!

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CHRISTA SPALDING

Siesta Key’s Biggest Fan! After visiting many of Florida’s gulf coast towns, I decided to trade in the chilly Maryland winters for year-round sunshine and sparkling white sand beaches. I would love to share my experience and personal knowledge of the Sarasota area with you. Global Luxury Specialist • Resort, Second Home & Investment Property Specialist • Certified Waterfront Specialist 9 4 1 - 5 2 9 - 6 9 7 8 | C H RI STA . SPA L D I NG @C B RE A LT Y.C O M SI E STA K E YD RE A MHO ME S.C O M

JOHN MCSWEENEY

Raised in Michigan, my first visit to Siesta Key was at my Grandparents condo as a child in the 70's. I've now been a resident of Siesta Key for 25 year and there's no place I'd rather be! With a degree in business and major in marketing, I made the switch over to real estate 10 years ago. I love bringing my expertise and local knowledge to the home-buying/selling process.

24 8 - 9 1 7 - 7 3 2 9 | J OH N . M C SW E E NE Y@F LO RI DA MOVE S.C O M J OH N M C SW E E N E Y- C B F LO RI DA . SI T E S.C B MOXI .C O M

JESSICA ARENS

Having lived in Wisconsin, Mississippi, Missouri and Florida, I'm no stranger to relocating. My personal knowledge, coupled with attention to detail and a servant nature, drives my passion for creating the best possible home-buying/ selling experience for my clients. Let's start the journey of finding you the perfect home that fits your lifestyle!

9 4 1 - 9 5 2 - 8 9 7 9 | J E S SI CA . A RE NS@C B RE A LT Y.C O M J E S SI CA A RE NS.C O M

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beaches and downtown.

For updates visit BradentonGulfIslands.com

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Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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HOT TOPICS T IM E LY PEOPLE, PL ACES AND THI NGS

Siesta Key Rum dives into more success with its recent release.

PAGE 32

Siesta Key Rum’s limited-edition “Scooter of the Beach” variety of its Toasted Coconut rum honors legendary Siesta Key lifeguard Scott Ruberg.

KEY LIFE

27

HOT TOPICS

Managing Paradise Longboat Key’s new town manager, Howard Tipton, measures the success of his weeks by the number of sunsets he gets to see.

BY LAUREN TRONSTAD CONTRIBUTOR

L

ongboat Key Town Manager Howard Tipton is reveling in what he considers a dream career move — working in paradise.

Tipton took over from Tom Harmer, who held the position for five years.

Prior to his move to the barrier island, Tipton had served as the St. Lucie county administrator since 2014.

When Harmer announced to the Longboat Key Town Commission his plans to retire, commissioners tasked him with finding his own replacement — someone he believed would be a good fit to fill his own shoes.

Harmer was given criteria the commission hoped the chosen candidate would meet. This included someone who was a seasoned public administrator, had experience working in a coastal area in Florida and who could continue developing the relationship between Sarasota and Manatee counties. Howard Tipton checked off every box.

Previous work experience in Brevard County led to the pair knowing each other for over 20 years even without formally working side by side.

Tipton’s first day on the job was Jan. 30. When he’s not working, he says he likes to fish, swim and travel. Since starting his new life on the island, he has been measuring the success of his weeks by the number of sunsets he gets to see. So far, he has averaged Continued on Page 30

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Photo by Lori Sax

Longboat Key Town Manager Howard Tipton is spending the first months of his new job listening to staff and evaluating systems.

WHO YOU WORK WITH MATTERS $112 MILLION PENDING & SOLD IN 2022

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No.

SIESTA KEY’S TOP SELLING REALTOR ® SINCE 2005

941.928.3424 judie.berger@premiersir.com

Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

HOT TOPICS Continued from Page 28 five per week. We recently sat down with Tipton to discuss his background, plans and first impressions.

First impressions of your team?

I continue to be impressed. They are all strong, talented people. The commissioners are motivated for the right reasons, and they’re incredibly bright and intelligent. We’ve been able to have good conversations. I’ve run out of superlatives, but it's a marvelous place. I’m fortunate because many of our team members don’t have a chance to live here. It’s one thing to work in paradise; it’s another to get to work and live in paradise.

What goals are on your mind?

It’s a great time to just ask questions and listen. Are there any course corrections to make to technology, efficiency, goals and values? There’s a plaque outside of Town Hall that says: “Longboat: Key to Happiness.”

Another sign says: “Premier community, exceptional service.” It’s kind of a vision statement, which had me thinking: What does that mean for us? It’s one of the things I want to talk through in the budget process. How do we resource appropriately to provide that exceptional service?

How are you approaching hurricane season as it nears?

We want to get everybody in the chair we need them in and identify roles that everybody can play — and then ensure everybody has been trained to do those jobs. We want to make sure our utilities are in good shape, our water tanks, our storage, our backup generators — all those things. When the storm hits, or right after the storm hits, is not the time to make sure plans are in place and relationships with contractors are still good. It’s kind of like training for a marathon. You’re not going to show up on the day of the race and that be the first time you’re putting running shoes on.

You often sign your emails as “Tip.” Where did that nickname come from?

Tip is a name my father and grandfather have gone by. My dad was Howard Tipton and so was my grandfather. It

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was a family nickname that was handed down. I love it because “Howard” to me always meant I was in trouble.

“Tip” is just much more relaxed.

Tell me about your family. What did they think of your decision to move to Longboat Key? My wife, Marion, and I have been married for 38 years. She knew we were eventually going to make a change in something, we just didn’t know what it was yet. She’s always been supportive.

We hadn’t spent much time on Longboat Key, so our level of excitement got higher after being here. It started with it sounding like a good idea to becoming more: Holy cow, this is great.

A FAMILY AFFAIR Working in the public sector has been a Tipton family affair for generations.

Tipton’s father was a highly decorated public servant, who served primarily at the federal level.

His sister has worked in different city positions for 35 years. His daughter, Michelle, serves as a senior budget analyst in Leon County and her husband is the assistant to the county administrator.

It’s kind of like training for a marathon. You’re not going to show up on the day of the race and that be the first time you’re putting running shoes on.”

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HOT TOPICS

Photos by Lori Sax

Troy Roberts and Scott Ruberg show off the new batch of limited-edition “Scooter of the Beach” rum.

Fun with Rum Siesta Key Rum recently released the second batch of a limited-edition label in recognition of the celebrated Siesta Key lifeguard ‘Scooter of the Beach.’

BY ERIC SNIDER CONTRIBUTOR

T

roy Roberts didn’t know the first thing about distilling spirits when he founded Siesta Key Rum in May 2007. He had just come into a financial windfall by selling a collection of sports car forum websites that he’d founded with

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a friend.

Roberts considered retiring. Briefly.

“Theoretically, I could have,” he says.

“I did well on the sale, but it was not the kind of money that would support the type of retirement I wanted. I like nice things, and I like traveling.”

He was 41 at the time. “Really, I was looking for something to do,” he adds.

Roberts liked baking, so he consid-

ered making rum cakes and selling them online. But he realized he’d have to think bigger. “I got interested in owning my own rum brand, and that sent me down a whole new rabbit hole,” he says. “My timing was good.

The craft spirits movement was just getting started.”

Continued on Page 34

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HOT TOPICS

BACKSTORY Continued from Page 32

“I got interested in owning my own rum brand, and that sent me down a whole new rabbit hole.”

TROY ROBERTS

Because Roberts had to learn distilling and the booze business from the ground up, he didn’t issue his first bottles of Siesta Key Rum until 2010.

Since then, he and his team have built a brand that’s now available in 29 states and sells in “the hundreds of thousands” of bottles per year. The company makes and packages its product CEO Troy Roberts issued his first bottles of Siesta Key Rum in 2010. Since then, he and his in a large warehouse in an industrial team have built a brand that’s now available in 29 states. section of north Sarasota. Visitors can take tours and sample rums in the fasources from Florida as much as he cility’s tasting room.

MEET SCOOTER! can. “Not knowing how to do it at the Siesta Key Rum offers four main flaSiesta Key Rum has a beginning turned out to be an advanvors or, as they say, infusions. These regular booth at the Siesta tage,” he says. Rather than adopting are Silver, Coffee, Spiced and Toasted Key Farmers Market. On standard industry practices, he did his Coconut — plus an aged Distiller’s Sunday, May 21, Scooter own research and made the best smallReserve. Toasted Coconut is the best of the Beach will hang out batch rums he knew how. seller. That’s what the company uses at the booth and do what Case in point: Toasted Coconut. for its Sarasota-centric Limited Edicomes naturally: schmooze While mass-market coconut rums tion Label series. It includes Midnight passersby, pose for pics and simply pour flavoring into the spirits, Pass, Bahi Hut and one that recognizes sign bottles of Scooter of Siesta Key Rum’s product results from Siesta Key lifeguard and local celebrity, the Beach Limited- Edition a far more exacting process. “Most co“Scooter of the Beach” (his real name Label Toasted Coconut rum. conut rums smell and kind of taste like is Scott Ruberg), who has manned his suntan lotion,” Roberts says. “We get “Magical Green Lifeguard Tower” on the coconut shredded and toasted and Siesta Key Beach for 28 years. use a process I developed to essentially The first batch of 2,000 bottles, force our own silver rum over the cowhich rolled out last year, sold out. conut, extracting all the flavor out of The company recently released a secit. We ended up with a product very ond run of 2,000. For every Scooter different from anything out there.” bottle sold, Siesta Key Rum donates It’s safe to say that you won’t mis$1 to Sarasota Bay Watch, a grassroots take Siesta Key Toasted Coconut Rum environmental nonprofit. for something you want to rub on your “It’s magic,” says Scooter with his shoulders. customary effervescence. “All I wanted was the green lifeguard tower on the label, and it came out full on Scooter of the Beach. I went crazy. It came out IF YOU GO gangbusters.”

To tour the facility and tasting room, Roberts makes his rums from visit SiestaKeyRum.com. the finest ingredients available, and

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KEY LIFE

Roberts moved with his father from Plainfield, Illinois, to Siesta Key in 1979. He attended Riverview High School, and skipped plenty of classes to hang out on the beach. After graduating in 1982, he came down with a serious bout of wanderlust. Roberts spent time in Colorado, where he worked as a parking valet at a resort to support his life as a ski bum. He opened a frozen yogurt store in Portland, Oregon, that, Roberts says, “failed miserably.”

Then, “when I was 25, I decided to do something real,” Roberts says. He got into computer programming and landed a job in California at a small company called Centura Software. When the company was acquired by Compuware, Roberts moved to the corporate headquarters in Detroit and ultimately rose to the title of director of product management. He left that job in 1999 and collaborated with a friend to start CorvetteForum. com. It took off — fast. The partners formed more forum sites dedicated to different sports cars.

Roberts had never completely put Siesta Key behind him, so he returned to town in the early 2000s. He reunited with his girlfriend from his senior year in high school, Nanci Vatovec. They married in 2015 and between them have six sons. The family lives on the north end of Siesta Key overlooking Big Pass.

Troy and Nanci like to take extended off-road trips in their custom-built Jeep into some of the most remote places in America. In February of last year, the couple spent two weeks in California’s Death Valley, venturing down desolate trails that found them 60 miles from the nearest human being.

Needless to say, they brought along plenty of Siesta Key Rum.

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HOT TOPICS

Photos by Harry Sayer

Michael Drake, the Longboat Key Historical Society’s president, stands in front of the cottage that now houses the organization’s extensive collection of artifacts.

Longboat Key Historical Society Gives New Life to the Past The organization’s new location at Longboat Key’s Town Center will serve as a museum showcasing archives, artifacts and historical objects.

BY PATRICIA HORWELL CONTRIBUTOR

M

ichael Drake’s dream of finding a permanent home for the Longboat Key Historical Society’s collection of artifacts has finally come true. The organization has moved and is planning to be open to the public in Town

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KEY LIFE

Center on Bay Isles Drive by summer.

“The Historical Society’s been packed up in boxes for the better part of 10 years,” says Drake, the society’s president. Historical documents, photographs, books and other memorabilia have been collected and preserved for 37 years by the Historical Society, which was founded by Ralph and Claire Hunter, the founders and origi-

nal owners of the Longboat Observer.

Sometime around 2017, after the Longboat Key Center for the Arts in Longbeach Village was sold to local developer Jim Clabaugh, Drake wondered what would become of the last two historic Whitney Beach cottages on the 2.3-acre site. Built in the late Continued on Page 38

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HOT TOPICS Continued from Page 36 1930s, the two cottages were among the original structures of the Whitney Beach Resort. Clabaugh offered to donate the cottages to the Historical Society. “And lo and behold, the town carved out a niche for us with a rent of $10 a year,” Drake says.

To raise much-needed funds, the Historical Society sold the larger of the two cottages to restaurateur Ed Chiles. The smaller of the two, formerly the linens cottage of the former resort, was moved to its new home at Town Center in 2017 and nestled into a lush oak hammock. “The neat thing is that it fits in so well it looks like it’s been there forever,” Drake says.

It cost about $30,000 to move the buildings and begin the renovation process. Drake says the money came from the organization’s coffers — mainly from the proceeds of the cottage sold to Chiles. From hurricane-proofing to electrical upgrades to disability compliance, the building needed plenty of repairs.

HUMBLE ROOTS In its early days, the collection had been displayed in the Historical Society’s office at Whitney Beach Plaza.

As the rent increased and the organization’s bank account decreased, the materials were moved to a climatecontrolled storage unit. As finances continued to diminish, private homes became the new storage facilities.

Pamela Coleman, former president of the Historical Society, had stored many of the archives in her home.

Drake had also kept part of the collection, as did a few board members. In the past few months, Drake has been opening boxes and rediscovering a past that had been sealed up for years. Besides books, photos and newspaper articles, he’s made some interesting finds — a mounted eastern diamondback rattlesnake skin, trophies from the days of the volunteer fire department and a portrait of Longboat Key’s first police chief are just some of what visitors will see. At one time the Historical Society had a huge boat anchor, which Drake hopes he can acquire again.

“I’ve received numerous calls from people who want to donate items but

38

KEY LIFE

so far have held off. I have names and numbers of people to call back,” he says.

Before he died, Ralph Hunter gave the Longboat Key Historical Society the rights to his book, “From Calusas to Condominiums: A Pictorial History of Longboat Key,” written in 2002. The organization can now print and sell the book in perpetuity.

How far back does the Historical Society’s collection go? Drake says he’s still researching that, explaining that the society had commissioned a historian, Mickey Harding, to put together a historical diary of Longboat Key. Drake says she researched the area as far back as 500 BC. “My goal is to basically take the records back to when there were three different Indian tribes that inhabited Longboat Key and then work toward the present.” He says the new space will be a “walk-through” where guests can view the entire history of the key.

Moving ahead, Drake hopes to bring back the annual fish fry fundraiser that dates back to the ’50s and used to be run by the Longboat Key volunteer fire department. He also hopes to build up his corps of volunteers and build a board of directors. “We’ve been privileged to have dedicated volunteers for the past 37 years,” he says.

All of this takes money, and Drake has mounted a fundraising campaign to finance this major project. He is also keeping a running list of potential vol-

unteers. Those interested in giving their time, should contact the Historical Society.

As of press time, the organization expects to be open by May 15.

IF YOU GO For more information about the Longboat Key Historical Society, visit LbkHS.org. The new space is located at 555 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key.

Above: An ADAcompliant ramp and handrails were recently installed on the exterior of the cottage.

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Retirement looks a little different for this former executive.

PAGE 42

KEY LIFE

41

KEY PEOPLE

Irene Chang-Britt The former CEO of Pepperidge Farm is living her dream life on Bird Key.

BY LESLEY DWYER | CONTRIBUTOR

I

rene Chang-Britt’s story is a tale of personal growth and reinvention. She’s a highly accomplished former Fortune 500 C-suite executive, with a long track record of transforming businesses to achieve industry-leading growth.

Chang-Britt’s resume includes serving as president and CEO of Pepperidge Farm and leadership positions with Kraft Foods/Nabisco and the Campbell Soup Co. While at Campbell’s, Chang-Britt, 60, ran the nonsoup division and grew the 75-year-old brand by 30% annually.

But let’s get back to Chang-Britt’s backstory.

After her freshman year at the University of Toronto, she and her older brother, Howard, were both unemployed that summer. The siblings were competitive cyclists and investigated opening a high-end bike shop. The concept looked lucrative and, with hardly any capital, they launched the shop.

Their concept worked. By the end of three years, they had a million-dollar grossing business. During that time, Chang-Britt earned her bachelor’s degree in anthropology — but her grades had suffered along the way. She knew her GPA alone wouldn’t get her into the prestigious Richard Ivey School of Business in Ontario, Canada, so she included the startup’s profit and loss statement with her application.

Needless to say, the “Harvard of Canada” accepted Chang-Britt and she graduated with honors.

Her next feat was climbing the corporate ladder as a wife and mother of two. Chang-Britt specialized in corporate turnarounds — which meant long hours and unpredictable, 24/7 Photos by Nancy Guth

Continued on Page 44

42

KEY LIFE

Irene Chang-Britt’s story is one of personal growth and reinvention.

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How will you Be The One?

KEY PEOPLE Continued from Page 42 demands. Thanks to a supportive husband and a helpful mother, ChangBritt didn’t put her career on pause.

Since then, she’s made it her mission to help other women do the same. Twelve years ago, she and a few other powerful female colleagues launched Women in America, a professional development and mentoring program whose goal is to enable promising female executives to fulfill their highest potential.

Eight years ago, Chang-Britt and her husband Tony decided to retire and move to Florida and are now living their dream life on Bird Key. Well, “retirement” might not be entirely accurate. Thanks to her game-changing perspectives on corporate governance, Chang-Britt is in high demand. She currently serves on the boards of several national companies, including Brighthouse Financial and Victoria’s Secret. Chang-Britt is also a soughtafter speaker on the best practices of corporate governance.

Chang-Britt recently sat down with Key Life to discuss everything from bad bosses to Tai Chi. Here’s some of her pearls of wisdom.

An anthropology degree lets me think laterally, which is very interesting. I didn’t grow up in business.

My mom grew up thrust into poverty by the war. She said, “The woman on the street with her little kids begging is no better or worse than the guy being chauffeured around. They just have different circumstances.”

I had a fairly horrible boss once.

He knew the daycare opened at 7, so he started the team meetings at 6:45 a.m.

I said the way I’m going to get through this is to shield my team from him. I thought of myself as an umbrella. We did a fabulous turnaround, and no one was demoralized on my team. I was pregnant with my daughter at the time, and she grew up well adjusted, despite the emotional strain from the abuse from that boss.

Corporate people often say, What are you talking about, why can’t you “normal?” I’ve been lucky enough to have some fabulous sponsors and mentors over my life who let me be “abnormal,” thinking differently than everyone else, which has allowed me

44

KEY LIFE

Bird Key residents Irene Chang-Britt and Tony Britt love exploring the region’s rich arts and cultural offerings

to achieve the business turnarounds that I have done.

When you use humor, perspective and a little bit of humanness, you get to a deeper truth.

Success is building something that matters to others. That transcends business and is also part of giving back.

When choosing a board, I start with a skills matrix. Then, I want the Rooney Rule like in the NFL. I want a diverse slate. I want male, female, people of color; I want to see them all.

Tai Chi helps me ground myself and live in the present moment versus what’s the next thing.

My husband gave up his career for me and the kids, and we’re better for it. He would take none of their whining and complaining when they were little. I would’ve been a pile of mush and given them everything.

“When you use humor, perspective and a little bit of humanness, you get to a deeper truth.”

The fun fact I read about Sarasota was that per capita, we spend second only to New York on the arts. When we got here and saw there was opera and ballet and the Van Wezel and Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe and The Ringling, we were thrilled.

We live on one of the canals. It’s amazing to put the kayaks into the water and go paddling through the mangroves whenever we feel like it.

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MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Where Birds Go to Heal Aaron Virgin, the new CEO of Save our Seabirds, has big plans for the avian sanctuary.

BY ERIC SNIDER | CONTRIBUTOR

W

hen Aaron Virgin came on board as CEO of Save Our Seabirds in summer 2021, the small attraction and avian rescue center on City Island had been closed to the public for 16 months due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“My predecessor felt it wasn’t safe, even though it’s an outdoor facility,” Virgin says. “A lot of people I talked to were shocked that we were closed.”

By contrast, Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium — SOS’s much larger next-door neighbor — was shuttered for just two months. One of Virgin’s first priorities was to reopen the gates, which happened the first week into his tenure. And it came with a significant change: free admission.

“There was this real false impression that we were a part of the Mote property and by asking people to pay an extra $10 a lot of them would walk away,” Virgin explains. So, the facility set up a donation box in lieu of a ticket booth. The result? In 2022, 116,000 people came through to view the 120 resident birds — nearly twice the attendance of the last pre-pandemic year. The donations amounted to roughly $50,000, about 30% more than the pay model. “Not to mention the good will,” Virgin adds, “which is priceless, plus all the people who had never previously come through here.”

Free admission was just one early move in an ambitious program that

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KEY LIFE

signals a new future for SOS. The nonprofit was founded in 2008 on the site of the longstanding Pelican Man’s Bird Sanctuary, which closed two years prior due to lack of funding. The three-acre facility is well into replacing its aging aviaries — made of wood and wire mesh — with longer-lasting ones constructed of aluminum and coated nylon mesh that makes for better bird viewing.

Concurrently, the leadership plans to build a new bird hospital, with an X-ray machine and fully equipped operating room. SOS brought on its first full-time avian veterinarian, Dr. MaPhotos by Lori Sax ria Passarelli, in fall 2020. An updated and expanded hospital will allow her to A former philanthropic officer at Mote, CEO Aaron Virgin knows that bringing in perform more complicated surgeries. money is a priority.

The master plan also includes a new administration building and expanding the workforce. As of late February, SOS employed eight full-time staffers and has about two dozen volunteers, most of whom are on call to pick up injured birds and bring them to the rescue center.

Virgin has set 2026 for completing the nonprofit’s multipronged makeover.

The CEO, who prior to taking the helm at SOS was a philanthropic officer at Mote, knows that bringing in money is a priority on his to-do list. In 2021, the facility operated on a budget Continued on Page 48

One of Aaron Virgin’s first priorities was to reopen the gates, which happened the first week into his tenure. And it came with a significant change: free admission.

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MAKING A DIFFERENCE

In 2022, 116,000 people came through to view the 120 resident birds — nearly twice the attendance of the last pre-pandemic year.

Continued from Page 46

As much as SOS is an inviting place for people to behold birds — from pelicans to parakeets — the facility’s primary business is helping to revive ailing ones.

of $800,000. That figure will have to increase at least five-fold, Virgin says.

He doesn’t sound concerned. “The great thing about Sarasota is there is a lot of wealth, and a lot of philanthropy and more dollars per capita than New York and Miami.”

SOS is currently in the non-public or “quiet” phase of a $15 million capital campaign. Virgin plans to use the first new aviary as a kind of “model home” to show off to potential donors. The CEO had his fundraising chops put to test last fall when Hurricane Ian caused $180,000 worth of damage, mostly to the aviaries. SOS resumed caring for birds after two days and was closed to the public for 27. Virgin and his board members raised $140,000 in 40 days, mostly via social media outreach and e-blasts. As of February, the repairs were completed and the cleanup nearly done.

MISSION MOMENT

Free admission is just one early move in an ambitious program that signals a new future for SOS.

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KEY LIFE

As much as SOS is an inviting place for people to behold birds — from pelicans to parakeets — the facility’s primary business is helping to revive ailing ones. The expansion takes place at a time when birds face increasing danger from a fast-growing human population and accompanying development. According to Passarelli, the biggest threats to the feathered set in the Sarasota area are fishing hooks and line; collisions with boats and cars; orphaned babies; poison from red tide and other toxins; and attacks, often by cats.

Most of her work involves removing fish hooks, providing fluid and nutritional support, medications for infec-

tions and dressing wounds. A better equipped hospital would enable her to do surgeries for broken bones, internal hook removals and other more complex procedures.

Passarelli occasionally encounters cases that linger in her mind. Last summer, two baby chimney swifts, each weighing about 10 grams (think two nickels) had fallen out of a local chimney and arrived at SOS on the brink of death. Passarelli and her staff initiated a stabilization protocol — warming them up in an incubator, for starters. Once it was clear the birds were likely to survive, they had to be fed “every 20 to 30 minutes during the daytime,” Passarelli says. “That species mostly eats insects, but we also had to administer seven different vitamins and supplements.”

Staff members took turns bringing the birds home to care for them overnight. After six weeks, they were healthy enough to return to the wild.

But there was a catch: To survive, the youngsters would need to be released into a colony of chimney swifts. A few blocks from the SOS compound lives a bird enthusiast who knew of such a colony near his home. He offered up his roof for the release.

An hour before dusk, a group of chimney swifts showed up and started flying around in circles. Virgin, Passarelli and the homeowner were on the roof waiting for them. Passarelli opened a box and the revived chimney swifts flew to meet their airborne comrades.

“It was such a beautiful moment,” she says, “to release these birds that had come in on death’s door.”

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CALENDAR

SUMMER 2023 May

4

MOONLIT PADDLE Take your kayaking adventures to the next level with Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, at 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, City Island.

Explore the coastal waters while discovering the Sarasota Bay nightlife — wildlife, that is. Participants must be at least 18 years old. Cost is $45 or $40.50 for Mote members.

Begins around 7:30 p.m., depending on sunset. n Visit Mote.org.

‘HOW THE OTHER HALF LIVES’ The Island Players presents the play “‘How the Other Half Lives,” a farce of misunderstandings and complications between three married couples when two characters try to cover up an affair. 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays through May 14 at The Island Players, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria.

Tickets are $27 online or $25 at the box office. n Visit TheIslandPlayers.org.

6

CORVETTES ON THE CIRCLE View more than 100 classic American cars at Skyway Corvette Club’s annual Corvettes on the Circle. From 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at St. Armands Circle. Registration is $50 to show a car. Admission to view is free. n Visit StArmandsCircleAssoc.com.

ANNA MARIA BEACH CLEANUP Help keep the beaches clean with The Center of Anna Maria Island.

Meet at The Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, at 9 a.m. Trash bags, gloves, water and a snack will be provided. n Visit CenterAMI.org.

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KEY LIFE

File photos

More than 150 corvettes were on display at the 2019 Corvettes on the Circle

6-7

DOWNTOWN SARASOTA SPRING CRAFT FAIR From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days at 5 Points Park, 1 Central Ave., Sarasota, photography, paintings, clothing and more will be on display and for sale.

Admission is free. n Visit ArtFestival.com.

8

SIESTA KEY FARMERS MARKET From 8 a.m. to noon at Siesta Key Village, 5104 Ocean Blvd., the Siesta Key Farmers Market features a variety of vendors selling produce, rum, bread, wellness products, artwork, natural candles and more.

Continues every Sunday. n Visit SiestaKeyFarmersMarket.org.

20

AMI HOGFISH SWIM The Speedo Salt Series returns to Anna Maria Island for the fourth annual Hogfish Swim. Race in a 1.2-mile or 2.4-mile open water swim. The races are open to all skill levels — whether it’s your first open water swim or you’re training for a triathlon. The weekend also includes an unofficial meetup swim and a happy hour. Registration is $70 for the 1.2-mile or $75 for the

ALL ANGELS FEATURED ARTIST: S. GIBLIN All Angels Gallery presents a one-woman show of artist S. Giblin through June 28. All Angels Gallery, 563 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key, is open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 8 a.m. to noon Sundays. Visit AllAngelsLBK.org.

2.4-mile for adults, $60 or $65 for youths, and includes a swim cap and welcome gift. n Visit SaltySportsSociety.com.

20-21

DIG THE BEACH VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT Dig the Beach comes to Siesta Key Beach for a weekend of volleyball.

Divisions include open amateur coed adults, amateur, semi-pro and professional, as well as various youth

Continued on Page 52

PALM AIRE C O U N T R Y C O U N T R Y

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Padel welcomed as the newest racquet sport to the Palm Aire Campus!

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CALENDAR

BEACH YOGA

Members of VFW 3233 play Taps at the 2022 SRQ Vets 5K Memorial Hike.

Continued from Page 50 divisions. Registration is $150. n Visit DigTheBeach.com.

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MORNING PADDLE Start your day on the water with Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, at 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, City Island. Morning kayak tours, from 8:30-10 a.m., are guided through Sarasota Bay and across seagrass beds. Keep an eye out for dolphins, manatees and other wildlife that make up the bay’s ecosystem. Participants must be at least 12 years old. Cost is $45 or $40.50 for Mote members. n Visit Mote.org.

JAZZ ON THE WATER Board the Marina Jack II for an afternoon cruise to hear Jazz Club of Sarasota perform. The cruise leaves at 3 p.m. from Marina Plaza, 2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota. n Visit JazzClubSarasota.org.

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SRQ VETS 5K MEMORIAL HIKE SRQ Vets returns for its eighth annual Memorial Day hike, in which veterans and civilians will honor those fallen with a 5K through Sarasota. The hike starts at 9 a.m. from J.D. Hamel Park, 199 Bayfront Drive, Sarasota. Registration for ages 13 and older is $30 or $35 after May

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14 and includes a T-shirt, a lunch ticket and a beverage ticket. n Visit SRQVets.us.

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ST. ARMANDS FINE ART FESTIVAL From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday at St. Armands Circle, browse jewelry, paintings, mixed-media, photography and more from artisans from across the U.S. Admission is free. n Visit ParagonFestivals.com.

June

3

THE GRAND CARNIVAL Project Pride SRQ kicks off Pride month with the return of its Grand Carnival fundraising gala. Ada Vox of “American Idol” and “Queen of the Universe” and Zee Machine, who was nominated for Breakout Musical Artist at The Queerties Award, will perform. There will be an open bar and light bites.

The gala, themed “Diamond Are Forever,” begins at 7 p.m. at The Circus Arts Conservatory, 2075 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota. General tickets are $75, and VIP tickets are $125. n Visit PPSRQ.org.

Continued on Page 54

n Anna Maria Island: 8:30 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays year-round and Wednesdays through May. Donations accepted. Near the Pine Avenue beach entrance. Visit ThriveYogaFit.com. n Longboat Key: 8:30 a.m. Tuesdays year-round. Donations accepted. Near the 100 Broadway St. beach entrance. Visit ThriveYogaFit.com. n Manasota Beach Park: 8:30 a.m.

Mondays through Saturdays yearround. $3 donation requested. At 8570 Manasota Key Road, Englewood. Visit YogaManasotaBeach.com. n Nokomis/North Jetty: 9 a.m. daily year-round. $3 donation requested. At 1000 S. Casey Key Road, Nokomis. Visit YogaManasotaBeach.com. n Nokomis Beach Park: Wednesday mornings year-round; times vary.

Donations accepted. Near the beach access by the large parking lot. Visit SCGov.net. n North Jetty Park: Every morning yearround; times vary. Donations accepted.

Near the beach access from the north parking lot. Visit NokomisBeachYoga.com. n Siesta Beach: From 9-10:30 a.m.

Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. $10. Between the green and blue lifeguard stands. Visit YogaOnSiestaBeach.com. n Siesta Beach: 8:30-9:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays and at sunset Wednesdays.

Donations accepted. Between the green and red lifeguard stands. Visit SiestaKeyYoga.net. n Turtle Beach: 8:30-9:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. $5 donation requested.

In front of the stairs/ramp on the north side of the parking lot. Visit ChesapeakeYoga.com. n Venice Beach: 8 and 9 a.m. daily and 7 p.m. weekdays year-round.

Donations accepted. At the Venice Beach Pavilion. Visit YogaWithElin.us.

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CALENDAR Continued from Page 52

vendors, food trucks and more from noon to 5 p.m. at Senior Friendship Center, 1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota. Admission is free. n Visit PPSRQ.org.

6

KIDS’ SUMMER BEACH RUNS, SIESTA BEACH Kids ages 1-17 exercise on the beach with the summer favorite 1-mile run at Siesta Beach, 948 Beach Road, Siesta Key. Participants receive a ribbon after each run and a T-shirt after their fourth run. The beach runs are free. Registration begins at 5:30 p.m. and the race at 6:30 p.m. every Tuesday through July 25. There is no beach run July 4. n Visit SCGov.net.

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KIDS’ SUMMER BEACH RUNS, NORTH BROHARD PARK Kids ages 1-17 exercise on the beach with the summer favorite 1-mile run at North Brohard Park, 1400 S. Harbor Drive, Venice. Participants receive a ribbon after each run and a T-shirt after their fourth run.

The beach runs are free. Registration begins at 5:30 p.m. and the race at 6:30 p.m. every Wednesday through July 26. There is no beach run July 5. n Visit SCGov.net.

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ST. ARMANDS CIRCLE CRAFT FESTIVAL The 21st annual Craft Festival returns to St. Armands Circle from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. Browse jewelry, pottery and more crafts from artists from across the U.S. Admission is free. n Visit ArtFestival.com.

Casper Gruters got a popsicle after completing a Kids’ Summer Beach Run on Siesta Key.

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SILVER PRIDE SARASOTA Project Pride SRQ and Senior Friendship Center celebrate the LGBTQ age-50-and-up community with its inaugural Silver Pride Sarasota event. Enjoy live music, local

17-18

DOWNTOWN VENICE CRAFT FESTIVAL The 30th annual Craft Festival returns to downtown Venice from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. Browse photography, stained glass and more crafts from artists from across the U.S. Admission is free. n Visit ArtFestival.com.

STAY TUNED: FOURTH OF JULY n Longboat Key’s Freedom Fest and Hot Diggity Dog Parade kicks off the festivities with the annual 15-minute parade along Bay Isles Road. n The Anna Maria Island Privateers bring swashbuckling fun to the Fourth of July with its annual public parade. n Venice, Siesta Key and Sarasota host fireworks shows each year for the Fourth of July, typically launching around dusk. n Keep Sarasota County Beautiful’s Liberty Litter Cleanup picks up litter July 5 from areas heavily used for Fourth of July celebrations.

Stay tuned at YourObserver.com for details.

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From there, he gets down to the details, going over all his clients’ preferences – including the kitchen sink.

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The design process begins with the clients sharing their dreams and requests for each room. Early in his career, Phipps recalls receiving paperfilled files of magazine pages from his clientele. These days, inspiration often comes in electronic form, from social media pins and posts. Either way, Phipps infuses his own ideas with the clients’ to arrive at “workable” ideas.

While the wish list holds a lot of importance, the house site is also a primary factor. In fact, Phipps walks the property with the clients to determine the size of home that the lot can accommodate, as well as how to best take advantage of the views and natural light.

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Turn to Turquoise This summer, take your color cues from the Gulf of Mexico’s blue-green hues. The color turquoise is believed to radiate peace, build confidence and recharge the spirit. Who can’t use that?

BY KELLY FORES | CONTRIBUTOR

Swim City

3170 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key 941-383-2288 SwimCity.com Wear all the colors of the Gulf in your bathing suit. Bleu Rod Beattie’s shirred Cool Breeze style in “deep water” provides plenty of coverage and yet is glamorous and flattering. Guys can’t go wrong with a classic boardshort; Billabong’s gradient stripe echoes the water as the sun goes down.

Bleu Rod Beattie one-piece $135; Billabong Fluid 21-inch boardshort $55.95

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Garden Argosy

30 N. Boulevard of the Presidents, Sarasota 941-388-6402 Garden Argosy recently changed hands and moved to a different spot on St. Armands Circle, but it offers the same diverse selection as the former shop.

There’s so much to look at, you might miss the colorful sleepwear section. Don’t. The pajama pants, robes, and two-piece short pajama sets come in a bunch of soothing prints — perfect for a soothing sleep.

Mahogany robe $52.99; Mahogany pajama set $52.99

The Beach House

351-353 St. Armands Circle, Sarasota 508-474-2954 The Beach House has you covered as far as cover-ups go. The tie-dyed tank dress is a flirty little number in a cool rayon blend dressed up with embroidery. For chillier nights, stay cozy in Mud Pie’s striped sweater. The weave is great to keep the daytime rays off your skin, too.

Raya Sun dress $34.99; Mud Pie sweater $69.99

Sea Glass Lane

380 St. Armands Circle, Sarasota 941-388-4646 SeaGlassLane.com Sea Glass Lane is the destination for upscalecasual clothing, like this simple, bright turquoise linen-blend dress, and elegant “deep sea” square neck dress. You’ll also find cute and easyto-wear tops, skirts, jackets, delicious cashmere sweaters and accessories to complete the look.

The fabrics and colors are dreamy.

Sea Glass Lane short jersey linen dress $84; Inizio long linen dress $152

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Ring $249; Pendant $279; Bracelet $369

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KEY LIFE

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PADDLING THE

WILD Key Life’s intrepid reporter encounters Florida’s unique ecosystem on a kayak tour through Lido Key’s magical mangrove tunnels.

BY LESLEY DWYER | CONTRIBUTOR

I

t’s Thursday afternoon, and I’m kayaking through tunnels carved out of mangrove branches off south Lido Key. The canopy of leaves fights off the blazing sun outside, and the rays can only reach my skin in

specks. The air feels about 10 degrees cooler, and the office feels about 1,000 miles away.

My assignment is to take a kayak tour from Ted Sperling Park, where Sarasota County oversees the operation of seven kayak concessionaires that offer rentals and tours, through the mangrove tunnels just offshore. The company I’ve selected to lead my tour is Kayaking SRQ. Even in a group of 15, the excursion is slow-paced and peaceful.

The tunnels are narrow, so the kayaks glide along single file. Minnows swim alongside, and every so often, a fiddler crab breaks the silence by shuffling up a branch.

If you get lucky, you’ll see starfish. I only saw two on this tour, but in 2016, my family rented kayaks to ring in the new year. There were so many starfish we couldn’t count them. They were blanketing the mangrove roots like presents under a Christmas tree.

Continued on Page 64

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Photos by Heidi Kurpiela

Mangrove forests are one of the most threatened tropical ecosystems in the world.

Florida’s estimated 600,000 acres of mangroves contribute to the overall health of the state’s coastal zone in addition to providing some of the best kayaking experiences.

KEY LIFE

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Continued from Page 62 My mother was 66 years old at the time, and my son was only 3. Perhaps a baby who can’t sit up on his own yet shouldn’t be brought along, but outside of that, the tunnels are fit for any age. In a worst-case scenario and the kayak tips, the surrounding water is only about two feet deep.

“If anything weird happens, you guys need to put your feet down,” our tour guide Steffan Simmons says.

“Otherwise, I will embarrass you. I’ll do an open water rescue in two feet of water, and it gets pretty dramatic.”

Simmons also lets us know that there’s no cool way to get into a kayak, so we’re instructed to “plop and pivot.”

It may not be graceful, but again, anyone can do it. I plop my butt in the seat, swing my legs over the side, and with a little push from KAYAKING SRQ Simmons, I’m off.

Our group gathers in an open Kim and Greg Gregory area after kayaking through opened Kayaking SRQ the first tunnel, which is rouin 2017. Within a year, tine for each passage. The their company earned water is still shallow outside the number one spot the mangroves, but there’s no on TripAdvisor and shield from the sun, so make they have kept that sure to pack sunscreen. title ever since.

But where’s our tour guide?

“We’re pretty picky Simmons is suddenly nowhere about who we hire,” to be seen.

Kim says.

Just as another kayaker Aside from superwonders aloud if we’ve been star guide Steffan abandoned, Simmons emerges Simmons, the kayak from the tunnel with a paddle outfitter has six other in one hand and a snake tour guides at the park. wrapped around the other.

Fishing, eco, paddle “Paddling with one arm board and private holding a snake is very diftours are also offered. ficult. My forearm is on fire right now,” he yells while Info: 941-799-1863 or slowly making his way over to visit KayakingSrq.com. the group.

Simmons jokes that the snake is rubber. But it’s very much alive — a rust-colored mangrove marsh snake. Ted Sperling Park Ranger Pete Garcia said it’s unusual to see snakes in the park because it’s filled with so many predators, especially osprey. Plus, the thick maze of mangrove roots provides a plethora of hiding spots.

Surprising us with a live snake over his head Tarzan-style pretty much sums up the experience with SimContinued on Page 66

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Left: Simmons has pet names for the rotating cast of aquatic critters he sees daily. He named this tricolored heron, “Henry,” pictured here holding court outside the mangrove tunnels. Above: The piercing teal-blue eyes on this stoic double-crested cormorant wowed passing kayakers.

The first manatee of the season breaks the surface of the water during Simmons’ second tour of the day.

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Continued from Page 64 mons, who is a self-described “unicorn” because he was born and raised locally. He doesn’t hesitate to scoop up a snake or jellyfish and is incredibly knowledgeable about the surrounding area. He’s the perfect mix of tour guide, historian and science teacher.

Simmons points to the snake’s tail and explains that males have long, narrow tails and females have short, stubby tails. Then, he calls her a beautiful little lady and gently releases her back into the water.

The waiting areas outside of the tunnels are not considered “open water” because they’re still within the protective barrier of the bay and mangroves. We make a brief pit stop on a tiny island and get a panoramic view of the Gulf of Mexico and the history of John Ringling from Simmons, but it’s too windy to venture any further that day.

“When I see whitecaps out in the channel, I don’t do the open water no

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Continued on Page 68

Photo by Lesley Dwyer

Kayaking SRQ tour guide Steffan Simmons surprises the kayakers with a rust-colored mangrove marsh snake. Right: Simmons waits for stragglers to arrive for his noon paddle through the Lido Key mangrove tunnels. Before working as a kayak guide, the Bradenton native led swamp buggy tours at Babcock Ranch in Punta Gorda.

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and Choosing the RIGHT Dealer is Never Black & White.

However, after you eliminate all of the marketing hype and sales traps, buying Gold and Silver can be much less complicated.

My name is John Maben and I am the owner of Pegasus Coin & Jewelry. I've been in the business of buying and selling precious metals along with rare coins and unwanted gold jewelry full time since 1978. I was the owner of an internet based coin and precious metals company that had 42 employees with over 100 million in sales annually until I sold that business in 2015. I was also a grader at PCGS and a grading Finalizer and Vice President at Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC). As a member of the prestigious Professional Numismatists Guild (PNG) since 1985, I sat on the board of that organization for two years and was instrumental in creating the PNG sub-organization - Accredited Precious Metals Dealers (APMD) of which I am a founding member.

Enough about me, but if you want to learn more Google me and look at our Google Reviews.

During times of uncertainty, inflation, and questions surrounding the ability of the U.S. Dollar to retain its place as the world currency of choice, more and more people are turning to Gold, Silver, and Platinum to better balance their portfolio. The biggest questions are, “Where do I go?” and “Who do I trust”? Unfortunately, many immediately turn to the companies they hear advertising on the radio and cable networks assuming they are legitimate and reputable because they are on air and often have paid celebrities - even the show hosts themselves - attesting to their practices.

BE CAREFUL!!! Also, NEVER put precious metals into an IRA until you know the reasons why you should not do so!

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I have been around a long time and I know just about everyone, but I don’t know 95% of the countless companies advertising heavily on air.

It is well known among insiders that the vast majority claiming to be #1, trust verified, the largest, are none of the above. They are marketing companies with dozens of scripted salesmen who sit in a room filled with cubicles. They may or may not be commissioned but they all have high pressure sales goals and we’ve had clients tell us they will

where most bullion transactions should yield between a 2% and 10% profit to the dealer.

Why trust a stranger in another state who you’ve never met that works for a company that is a BIG UNKNOWN? Along with my staff of experts, we have over 150 years of combined buying and selling experience.

Large transactions are our specialty, but we don’t shut anybody out. We routinely will price match two of the largest precious metals online dealers but our buy and sell prices are usually better in the first place. Many clients drive from all parts of Florida because they like our prices and the way we do business. The environment is safe and first class inducing an immediate comfort level when you enter our conveniently located store.

When buying or selling bullion or a coin collection, stop in or call us at 941-725-6100 say almost anything to potential clients, especially what they want to hear in order to gain trust. Most have almost no hands on or earned knowledge, in fact you could be speaking with someone that was working in a convenience store or selling cars the week before. These companies will typically do a fair deal on the first transaction and then relentlessly hound the customer to make more purchases that are far higher yielding in profits.

We’ve seen instances of pricing that by industry norms were 40% to 100% too high in a business

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Continued from Page 66 matter what direction the wind is,” Simmons says. “Even if you get stuck in one gust at 30 miles an hour for 10 seconds, it can completely alter your course.”

After seeing birds, fish, sea hares, jellyfish, sea urchins, starfish and a snake, it didn’t feel like I’d missed out on anything on the tour. But then I heard from our Key Life photographer, Heidi Kurpiela, that a manatee swam up to her kayak in open water while she was shooting this story. So, I asked the park ranger if it’s common to see manatee in the mangroves.

“You could point out every yellowcrowned night heron or ibis, but people are here to see the manatees,” Garcia said. “And they get really excited, for some reason, when they see a racoon coming to the other side. That is the highlight of their trip. Racoons are the most talked about at the end of the day, especially if they’re with little babies.”

I was especially interested in the jellyfish, partly because Simmons picked

Mangroves help prevent erosion and provide a crucial barrier during storms.

They also serve as filters. The shrub’s ability to desalinate water is so unusual it inspired Yale researchers to build a device to mimic the process.

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Continued on Page 70

The manmade Lido Key mangrove tunnels surrounding Ted Sperling Park on South Lido Beach were established decades ago to increase water flow and decrease the local mosquito population.

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Continued from Page 68 one up with his bare hands, but also because they used to be so plentiful outside the tunnels. They’re called Cassiopea or upside-down jellyfish. This was the first kayak trip I’d taken where they weren’t hugging the bottom of the bay like a layer of oversized snowflakes.

“When Irma came through, we had more jellyfish in this park. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium was down here doing a study. They felt that this area, because of its size, had more jellyfish in one immediate area than anywhere else on the Gulf Coast of Florida,” Garcia said. “After Ian, it seemed to have sucked these jellyfish out into Sarasota Bay again, so we don’t see the jellyfish like we used to after Irma.”

There are four main tunnels used by guides, plus seven ancillary tunnels.

The ancillary tunnels are open to tours and the public, but there’s less room to navigate. Prices start at about $60 but vary depending on the kayak, tour and company.

Continued on Page 72

Kayakers spot the first manatee of the season off the coast of Lido Key in Sarasota Bay.

In 1996, the Mangrove Trimming and Preservation Act was passed. The legislation cited that “mangroves play an important ecological role as habitat” and provide “shoreline stabilization and storm protection.”

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IT ALL STARTED WITH MOSQUITOES

legislation cited that “mangroves play an important ecological role as habitat” and provide “shoreline stabilization and storm protection.”

“The mangroves are protected because they don’t grow as fast as the normal trees,” Sarasota County Arborist Dewey Bullock said. “If we don’t protect them, we’re not going to have any shoreline left.”

Mangroves help prevent erosion and provide a crucial barrier during storms. They also serve as filters.

Most plants can’t live in saltwater. The shrub’s ability to desalinate water is so unusual it inspired Yale researchers to build a device to mimic the process.

The “mangrove device” was unveiled in 2020. As the science advances, its target is flooding. If a building were to act as a mangrove during a flood, not only could it sustain the rising water, but it could also help filter out contaminants.

In the 1950s, the Lido Casino was the key’s main attraction. The area known as Brushy Bayou, where the tunnels are now, was a retention area to control stormwater. When it became infested with mosquitoes, the solution was to dig ditches.

“The Army Corp of Engineers used this system for many, many years in many different areas,” Garcia said. “It allowed the transfer of saltwater into that body, turning it into a brackish system and making it impossible for the mosquitoes to breed.”

Seven decades later, the tunnels are a tourist attraction, and the mangroves are protected. Efforts to protect mangroves started in 1984 when Senate Bill 986 directed the Department of Environmental Protection to “adopt general permit rules for protecting mangrove trees or plants from IF YOU GO alteration, removal, etc.”

In 1996, the Mangrove Trimming Ted Sperling Nature Park, and Preservation Act was passed. The 190 Taft Drive, Sarasota; 861-5000.

Most tours running through the Lido Key mangrove tunnels are capped at about 15 kayakers or fewer. During season, the kayak guide company launches about 120 boats a day.

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Jake’s Ice Cream on Siesta Key

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LWR LIFE

Photo by Nancy Guth

the

latest scoop No need for screaming.

There are plenty of places on the keys to satisfy your ice cream cravings.

BY SU BYRON AND MARTY FUGATE | CONTRIBUTORS

he weather’s heating up. As Eddie Cochran famously observed, “There ain’t no cure for the summertime blues.”

We beg to disagree. The cure exists, and ice cream is the prescription. The following proprietors of sweet frozen treats will help you keep your cool in the sweltering weeks ahead. Their chilly choices add up to more than a month of sundaes.

Courtesy photo

Jake Best (left) and Eric Mathis enjoy taking people on tasting tours and working with their guests to find a flavor they not only love but connect to emotionally.

Photo by Nancy Guth

“We’re not in the ice cream business. We’re in the making-peoplefeel-good business.”

JAKE’S ICE CREAM ON SIESTA KEY n 2018, Jake Best stepped away from the corporate grind. He loaded up his minivan and eventually moved the family to Sarasota, the hometown of his childhood. What was he looking for? “I needed creativity. I always felt like an artist without a medium — and I prayed to find a mentor to pass along his wisdom.” In 2019, Best’s prayers were answered.

It seems Dennis Yoder (Big Olaf’s founder) was looking for a mentee.

He’d just opened Siesta Creamery but had nobody to share his ice cream artistry with. Once Yoder and Best

teamed up, that changed. Best is still grateful for the lessons Yoder passed on to him. “He was 86,” he recalls. “He was a local ice cream legend and the world’s kindest man.” Because of the pandemic, Siesta Creamery closed for two months in 2020. After that, Yoder stepped away and Best stepped up. He reopened the shop — and rechristened it “Jake’s Ice Cream on Siesta Key” in 2022. Needless to say, everything worked out for the best. “I operate in gratitude for that gift every day and put that love into every scoop — the ice cream itself, and also the way we serve it to our guests,” says Best.

IF YOU GO 6575 Midnight Pass Road, Sarasota; 941-554-4632; JakesIceCreamOnSiestaKey.com

JAKE BEST MUSES ON JOY, MEMORIES AND ICE CREAM Top lesson he learned from his mentor, Dennis Yoder We’re not in the ice cream business. We’re in the making-people-feel-good business. Nobody comes in to satisfy their hunger. They come in to experience joy and, hopefully, the best ice cream they’ve ever tasted.

How would you describe Jake’s?

It’s an emotional experience! We focus on creating that beautiful moment for customers. We want the shop to feel light and clean and cozy, with an energy that’s buzzing with joy. We love the process. We enjoy taking people on tasting tours and helping our guests find a flavor they not only love but connect to emotionally.

You call your ice cream “handcrafted.” Why? Let me start by saying I craft ice cream with my whole body, not just my hands. I make every

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Continued from Page 76 tub and every scoop of ice cream we serve. It starts with our dairy. I get the richest, highest quality local dairy products, delivered fresh twice weekly. It has a higher butterfat content than any ice cream I know of.

That obviously has a premium cost, but I can create a fuller flavor profile with the aroma. It also allows me to create a sequence of flavors like varieties of wine. I also spend a lot of time preparing other ingredients like the fruits, chocolates, roasting nuts — or inventing something of my own. If I can make the ice cream better, I do it.

It’s just like life: It all comes down to going the extra inches it takes to turn good to great.

You’ve said memories are fundamental to your ice cream creation.

Could you share some of those memories?

Each of my ice creams tells its own story. Once I know how people connect to a particular flavor, I turn up the volume on that specific detail and

build the ice cream around it. The inspiration might be a specific ingredient, or something more abstract like “romance” or “warmth.” I made Beach House Cherry for Valentine’s Day and we just kept making it. It’s amarettoinfused vanilla ice cream made with cherries and toasted sliced almonds.

The word “amoretto,” in Italian signifies “little loves.” The ice cream is white for purity; the cherry represents the heart and passion; the snap of the almond symbolizes love’s delicate nature. Fortunately, it all came together beautifully.

What’s your favorite flavor?

During the day it’s a cake cone with vanilla on bottom and strawberry on top. Any other time, my butter pecan (Dennis’ recipe) and I are really having a moment right now. It’s the best butter pecan on planet Earth!

What key fact should Key Life readers know about Jake’s?

Our staff makes all the difference.

Eric Mathis, my operations manager, deserves as much (or more) credit than I do. Everything that isn’t ice cream is basically his work. Eric gets great people and trains them to serve at the level that our guests deserve.

He deals with the consistency, the process, employee manuals, compliance, and regulations — all of the “nerd stuff” that stresses me out. I can’t give him enough praise. We met as executive coaches before I’d opened the shop. Eric DON’T LEAVE saw how much I needed WITHOUT TASTING him, so he took me on as a Best’s Rum Raisin ice cream. client and also assumed He infuses giant raisins in spiced his current role. God just rum for a month and turns them into keeps putting the people “rum grapes.” He then gently folds in my life that I need to them into an ultra-smooth butter rum run the race. It’s all about ice cream and pairs it with toasted people. Our only mission coconut. According to Best, “You is to deliver an environwon’t find this flavor anyment for great memories to where else in the world.” be made. Everything else is just tools, material, and details.

Continued on Page 80

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HARRY’S CONTINENTAL KITCHEN rea foodies flock to Harry’s for its famous crab cakes, vichyssoise, roasted duck and celebrated brunches. Ah, but what about dessert? If you have any room left, try Harry’s “Ultimate Ice Cream Sundae,” co-created by co-owners Harry and Lynn Christensen. What makes it ultimate?

According to Harry, “Because we loaded it with chocolate chip cookies, Harry’s famous brownie, homemade hot fudge and topped it with whipped cream.” He adds that the ingredients inspired their signature sundae’s recipe, not the other way around. “We had all this great stuff lying around at Harry’s,” he says. “We thought it’d make the ultimate desert if we put it all together.” Plenty of Harry’s regulars clearly agree; the “Ultimate Sundae” is a hit.

IF YOU GO 5600 Gulf of Mexico Drive,

Longboat Key; 941-383-0777; HarrysKitchen. com.

Photo by Nancy Guth

Continued on Page 82

Harry and Lynn Christensen share an Ultimate Ice Cream Sundae with a Brownie Sundae on the side.

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Photo by Lori Sax

TYLER’S GOURMET ICE CREAM SHOP

Rob Alderson, the owner of Tyler’s Gourmet Ice Cream, says that ice cream is the ideal Florida business.

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long with sweet stuff to savor, this ice cream shop has a sweet history. Larry and Geri Tyler founded the original Cortez location in 1984 and it soon became a mainstay for all who scream for ice cream. In 2008, they put the shop up for sale and it caught the eye of Rob Alderson’s father. Rob Alderson and his wife, Laura, flew from their home in Minnesota to check it out. “We were looking for a business to buy — but Florida wasn’t on our radar,” says Alderson. “But once we saw it, we knew it was meant to be. It was one of those magical things where everything lined up. Our kids were young and hadn’t yet started school, so it was the perfect time to make a move.”

FUN How did he learn how FACT to make ice cream? “It’s Each batch at Tyler’s not rocket science. I is handmade in small, have a background in 5-gallon quantities to the culinary arts, so ensure distinct taste and I’d worked with food freshness. More than before. And we were 300 flavors have been lucky because the created since its previous owner, Larry, founding. showed me the ropes — and even gifted us with the

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Continued on Page 84

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State of the Art Facility

Continued from Page 82 original metal tin recipe holder with all the original recipes.”

Since then, the Aldersons opened another location in Bradenton and, in 2017, partnered with Michael Garey and Bob Fracalossy, the Lazy Lobster’s owners, to open a third location right next door to their landmark restaurant in the Centre Shops on Longboat Key. They also deliver their ice cream to several area restaurants.

“Ice cream is the ideal Florida business,” says Alderson. “People who come to the key are always in an ice cream mood — even during cold snaps.” Alderson makes all of his ice cream on-site. His proud description of his own handiwork? “It’s the best ice cream in the land.”

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Extra Scoops!

Here are a few more key spots to satisfy your urge for ice cream.

After an afternoon of adult window shopping on St. Armands Circle, it’s time to treat the kids to something scrumptious at Kilwins. They’ll find dozens of different flavors of brainfreezing delight — along with enough permutations of homemade fudge and chocolates to put a smile on Willy Wonka’s face. How to find it on the Circle? It’s the shop with the long line of people outside waiting patiently for their sweet dose. 312 John Ringling Blvd., St. Armands Key; 941-3883200; Kilwins.com.

Cones, milkshakes, or malteds?

Whatever your taste, ice cream from Orange Octopus Ice Cream Co.

can deliver the chill. They take their time creating their handmade, slowchurned treats. The wait is worth it — and how cool is the name? 1220 Old Stickney Point Road, Siesta Key; 941-346-0202; OrangeOctopusIceCream.com.

Sub Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream makes tasty treats with the power of science.

They instantly flash-freeze their ice cream with -320 degrees F. of liquid nitrogen. It’s fun to watch, and even more fun to eat. They’ve got a range of sizes and flavors — and vegan options, too. 219 Avenida Madera, Siesta Key; 941-349-4062; SubZeroIceCream.com.

Made In Rome Organic Gelato’s gelato is not actually made in Rome — but the owners hail from Rome, so it’s the next best thing; their frozen fare is as authentically Italian as you can get.

Using the processes and equipment found in Italy’s finest gelaterias, they create small batch, allorganic concoctions of organic milk, cream, eggs, sugar, fruits and nuts. (They also offer vegan and sugar-free options.)

Their latest flavor? Red Tide, with chocolate, red peppers from Italy and strawberry topping.

5204 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key; 960-5344; MadeInRomeGelato. com.

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BAY WATCH

An aerial shot of The Bay shows its position alongside Sarasota’s iconic bayfront.

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A core group of business, civic and philanthropic leaders in Sarasota came together over the past decade for one common cause: to turn a parking lot into a world-class park.

BY MARK GORDON | CONTRIBUTOR

T

he most talked about park in at least a generation in Sarasota was born on a bus. (We’ll get back to that in a minute.)

That park is The Bay. The elegantly simple name defies the occasionally angsty decade-long process to get to Oct. 14. That’s the day phase one of the park, which sits on 53 acres of bayfront property west of Tamiami Trail between Boulevard of the Arts and 10th Street, officially opened. More phases of The Bay are forthcoming over roughly the next decade, in what will be a $150 million project — the first-ever public-private partnership of its kind the city has ever been involved with.

“This is a tremendous project,” Sarasota City Manager Marlon Brown says. “I’m so excited for the city.”

That excitement, and the park overall, can be traced to a handful of integral people and important moments, which, at various levels and a variety of times, proved indispensable to moving forward with The Bay. In interviews with more than a half-dozen of those people, two key themes emerged. One is that every decision about The Bay has to enable, foster or in some way enhance access to the park for everyone, including people of all ages, socioeconomic status, race and physical ability.

The other is transparency. Not only because of Florida Sunshine Law, which, given it’s a public-private partnership, requires it. But also, says The Bay Park Conservancy Chairwoman Jennie Compton, they wanted to know that even if “people disagreed with the decisions we made, they could never disagree with the process.”

But back to the bus. And a trip local restaurateur Michael Klauber, then chairman of Visit Sarasota County, took to Nashville in 2013 with 30 other city and county leaders. It was a behind-the-scenes look at how the Music City handled a slew of challenges, from housing to recreation.

The founder and co-owner of Michael’s On East, Klauber recalls he was “fired up” when the group was taken on a tour of Riverfront Park, a mixed-

Photo by Dylan Jon Wade Cox, @djwcphoto

Continued on Page 90 KEY LIFE

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Continued from Page 89 use waterfront project on the banks of the Cumberland River in downtown Nashville. He got back on the bus for the next stop and his mind wandered: “There are 75 acres in play in Sarasota,” he thought, “and no one was looking at the big picture.”

BACK ON THE BUS

Jon Thaxton, who back then was fresh off serving three terms as a Sarasota County commissioner, sat next to Klauber on the bus. He vividly recalls his friend’s energy and enthusiasm. “If Nashville can take a ditch and build it into a world-class waterfront project,” Thaxton recalls Klauber saying, “why can’t Sarasota take a parking lot and build a world-class park?”

The next decade proved to be an up-and-down, high-and-low and sometimes sideways undertaking. It included millions of dollars in donations from private citizens, five community foundations and area businesses. It included hours-long city council meetings with dozens of questions.

It included some 400 meetings with neighborhood groups — from breakfasts in high-rise buildings to Sunday suppers in Newtown.

It also included multiple conversations with city leaders. While the city was, in general, in favor of the idea, the details were complex. “Nothing is easy when you are dealing with the government,” says Rob Lane, managing shareholder at the consulting firm Kerkering, Barberio & Co. in Sarasota, and treasurer of The Bay Park Conservancy. That belief was echoed by many others who worked with The Bay, including Thaxton.

FIRST RESULTS

Phase one of The Bay, under construction since 2019, includes more than 15 acres of revitalized greenspace; a colorful children’s playground with two larger-than-life ibis sculptures; common ground lawns, the Mangrove Bayou Walkway; an outdoor reading room; an ADA-accessible paddle launch; a restored and preserved mangroves Continued on Page 92

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The Bay’s winding paths are perfect for children to explore nature.

MONEY MATTERS Phase one total cost: $40 million

$30 million for park development $8 million for design/engineering/environmental and all outside consultant support $2 million for project management/planning/administrative support

90% of the cost for phase one was funded from private sources, including foundations, philanthropists, businesses, and Friends of The Bay. The city of Sarasota contributed $3 million.

The project also received small government grants totaling about $1 million.

Phase two estimated cost: $65 million

$48 million will come from a TIF-backed city bond; $17 million from government grants.

Cash and commitments to date have come from...

Government sources: 35% Private philanthropic sources: 42%:

Foundations: 23%

n Among the largest donors are The Patterson Foundation, Charles and Margery Barancik Foundation, Gulf Coast Community Foundation, Community Foundation of Sarasota County and the William G and Marie Selby Foundation. Among the larger business donors are Michael Saunders and Co. and the Sarasota Bay Club. n 100 individuals and family foundations have donated $5,000 or more. n More than 100 businesses have donated.

KEY PEOPLE None of this would be possible without a core group of people behind The Bay, an All-Star list of Sarasota’s business, civic and philanthropic leaders. (In full disclosure, Emily Walsh, Key Life publisher and Observer Media Group president, joined the BPC board in 2019 and was named secretary earlier in 2023.) A partial list includes:

JENNIE COMPTON An attorney and managing partner of Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, Compton was asked to join an early planning group for The Bay. After initially demurring, she drove by one day during lunch, in 2014. The Sarasota native recalled how as a kid she would take a yellow school bus to the “purple building” (the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall) and have lunch while sitting on the orange curbs. She drove up that afternoon and found the same thing: students

A.G. LAFLEY The founding CEO of the BPC, Lafley is the person multiple people involved in the Bay site as the project’s quarterback. The former

president and CEO of Procter & Gamble, Lafley worked on a massive waterfront redevelopment project in Cincinnati, P&G’s headquarters. Sizing up The Bay opportunity, Lafley quickly realized, he says, that the group needed two things: talent and money. The talent side was taken care of with the board and others, including design, planning and construction firms like Sasaki, Haskell and Jon F. Swift Construction. The money?

Roughly 100 people gave at least $5,000, he says, in

addition to the region’s five core community foundations, which, in total, gave more than $1 million. “If you have all the foundations,” says Lafley, “then you have a critical mass.” (Lafley will soon step away as founding CEO. In a move BPC officials announced March 24, the new CEO will be Stephanie Crockatt, who was previously executive director of Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy in upstate New York.)

CATHY LAYTON A retired commercial real estate broker who has been

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Continued on Page 92

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arriving in a yellow school bus for a field trip and lunch on the orange curbs. “You look at all this and you see all this,” Compton says, referring to the water and views and location, “and you think ‘we can do better.’”

Compton thought she would be involved for at most two years. A decade later she’s still there. “I firmly believe this will greatly impact our community over the next 50 to 100 years,” she says.

KEY LIFE

91

Key People continued from Page 91

The Urban Conga is one of two “playable” art installations in the park.

Continued from Page 91 and shorelines; and a concessions spot dubbed The Nest.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Phase two of The Bay, at a projected cost of $65 million, includes multiple parts to expand the offerings, such as the Canal District, Cultural District, Sunset Pier and Western Shoreline.

Nearly $50 million of the funding comes from a Tax Increment Financing district arranged by the city of Sarasota.

Another aspect of The Bay, which remains in flux, is a performing arts center. The crux of a debate around that project: whether to replace or refurbish the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.

Sarasota officials — the city owns and manages the iconic purple theater complex — held several meetings in March to discuss options as passionate groups on both sides jockey for public support.

The Bay Park Conservancy doesn’t control the Van Wezel or the decision.

92

KEY LIFE

Photo by Christopher Brickman

MICHAEL KLAUBER

PARK PLAYERS Outside of the headlines, many others in Sarasota played important roles in the formation of The Bay. The list includes:

VIRGINIA HALEY

SHAUN MERRIMAN

The Visit Sarasota County president, along with Gulf Coast Community Foundation executive Jon Thaxton and Michael’s on East co-owner Michael Klauber, made up what many behind The Bay refer to as the Three Musketeers of the early days of the project.

Retired banking executive and founder of Gateway Bank, he recruited several people early on to be part of The Bay.

DEBRA JACOBS The CEO of The Patterson Foundation, Jacobs provided advice and inspiration to Michael Klauber and others in the beginning days. The foundation’s multiple sixfigure donations also paced the giving of other foundations and groups, say Lafley and Klauber.

on numerous nonprofit and civic boards, Layton, like Compton, was hesitant to join The Bay early on. But also like Compton, Layton, while not a native, moved to town with her family in 1970 and saw what it was and what that site could be. With phase one complete, Layton, chair emeritus of the BPC, has spent multiple afternoons in the park, watching and seeing how people use it.

Seeing The Bay principles in action is a reflective and proud moment for Layton, thinking back to the early days. “We really started on a wing and a prayer,” she says.

“There was no map to guide us. There was no staff. There wasn’t even any furniture.”

SHANTEL NORMAN Now VSC group director of sales, Norman, say several with The Bay, was the glue who kept everything together in the early days.

That’s especially true for when the group was holding multiple neighborhood meetings a month.

JASON SWIFT President of Jon F. Swift, which handled construction of The Bay. The Bay Park Conservancy CEO A. G. Lafley says Swift’s calm under pressure, such as when Hurricane Ian pounded the region, was an example for everyone in the project.

Klauber was relentless in the early going, say several others closely connected to the park, with one core message: What are people going to say 50 years from now about the opportunities we have and the decisions we are making? In fact, Klauber is so invested in The Bay he will soon live there.

Or almost. He and his wife, Terri, are selling their downtown Sarasota condo and plan to buy a condo in One Park, an 18-story building going up on the corner of Tamiami Trail and Boulevard of the Arts. “I want to be able to open up the front door, walk into the park and watch it grow and have an opportunity to be outside and be around the park all night,” Klauber says. “Heck, yeah, that’s what I want. I want to spend my next 30 years here.”

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OASIS IN S I DE THE I S L AND LI FEST Y LE

Home with historic architectural roots continues to draw reverence.

PAGE 98 KEY LIFE

97

At Home with History

Every house has a story or

two to tell. But this home on Siesta Key has so many it’s

hard to tell where to begin.

BY ROBERT PLUNKET | CONTRIBUTOR

98

KEY LIFE

Photos courtesy of Premier Sotheby’s International Realty

The original Revere Quality House now serves as a guest house and pool pavilion for a newer 4,755-square-foot “companion house” built in 2007.

Similar design motifs unify the two structures to create a lavish Siesta Key estate. At upper left, the view from the Revere House out to the pool.

KEY LIFE

99

I

s it a historically important example of the Sarasota School of Architecture — the first moment when the style came into focus and attracted the world’s attention? Is it the struggle to save the house after it had fallen into disrepair — a struggle that ended with a triumphant second act? Or is the personal drama of the three iconic architects who created it?

As a property it is very much an anomaly. A 75-year-old house (935 square feet) paired with a 4,755-squarefoot modernist mansion built in 2007.

They occupy an idyllic setting on Bayou Louise, at the north end of Siesta Key. At first glance, the place seems se-

cluded; you are surrounded by a green lawn, and clusters of mangroves and soaring bamboo. But from the upper levels of the newer structure a view appears — over the bay, out to the keys.

At the gate — yes, the property is gated — you’ll find a plaque announcing the property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. As architectural critic John Howey put it, “Literally millions of homes incorporating aspects of its design have been built across the southern United States.”

Back in the 1950s, the smaller house was the most famous in Sarasota. It was one of the heavily publicized Revere Quality Houses, a collection of eight homes spread through the

country. The Revere Copper Co. had sponsored a competition to build the perfect post war home — something new and modern — to appeal to the millions of returning G.I.s and the families they were starting to raise. And if it featured Revere products, like pipes and wiring, so much the better.

Ralph Twitchell, at the time the town’s most prominent architect, entered the competition, along with his new junior partner, a young man just out of the army and eager to start his career. Paul Rudolph was a Southerner by birth but had studied at Yale with Walter Gropius. His viewpoint meshed Continued on Page 102

“As a property it is very much an anomaly. A 75-year-old house (935 square feet) paired with a 4,755-squarefoot modernist mansion built in 2007.”

The main living area of the newer home is located on the second level and features walls of glass looking out over Bayou Louise. Terrazzo floors and built-ins create a timeless modernist look.

100

KEY LIFE

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JOHN SMITHMAN, OWNER

Continued from Page 100 well with Twitchell’s; the give and take between the two produced what may well be the first fully realized example of what was to become known as the Sarasota School of Architecture.

The house they designed was a little shocking for its time but it still captured people’s imagination. Over 16,000 came to see it during the year it was open to the public. Articles appeared in magazines all over the world, and it was the star of a major advertising campaign.

It certainly had star quality. A just under 1,000-square-foot rectangle, it had glass on both sides. You could see through it. Sliding glass doors and jalousie windows could be opened to bring in breezes from the Gulf; wide overhangs protected it from the sun.

Wooden built-ins were everywhere, giving it a detailed, custom look. And talk about bringing the outside in — it had a screened patio with actual grass.

Historians argue over which archiIpe wood from Brazil warms up the main hall of the newer structure. There is an elevator to the left; the circular staircase at rear leads to a roof deck with a lounge area.

Continued on Page 106

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“Enter the perfect group of saviors. Developer Howard Rooks and local entrepreneur Doug Olsen purchased the property and enlisted contractor Pat Ball and architect Guy Peterson to come up with a plan.”

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Continued from Page 102 tect did what, but most give the edge to Rudolph. You can actually see a young architect finding his vision. Still, the home’s heart belonged to Twitchell. It would change his life forever.

It seems that a Siesta Key neighbor named Regina Finney fell in love with the house and purchased it after the exhibition year was up. She also fell in love with Twitchell. So strong was the attraction that the architect left his family and moved into the Revere House with Regina. They eventually married and raised a family in the house. It is where Twitchell was living when he died in 1978.

As for Rudolph, he was to design more beautiful and innovative buildings in Sarasota, then went to Yale where he ran the architecture school and, as the New York Times put it “wielded enormous influence over the direction of American architecture.” Today (he died in 1997) he is considered one of the greatest architects of the second half of the 20th century. To see the Revere House, where so Continued on Page 108

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much started, is on the bucket list of every lover of architecture.

By 2004 the home had fallen into disrepair. Twitchell’s third wife, Paula Behnke, died in 1994 and the home, somewhat altered over the years — the carport had been turned into a bedroom — was sitting empty and forlorn, a likely candidate for demolition. The land it stood on had exploded in value; it seemed that any day the house would disappear and yet another Med-Rev McMansion would be springing up.

Enter the perfect group of saviors.

Developer Howard Rooks and local entrepreneur Doug Olsen purchased the property and enlisted contractor Pat Ball and architect Guy Peterson to come up with a plan. It was a tricky challenge on all levels — financial, aesthetic and historic. Should it be remodeled? Enlarged? Torn down? Peterson knew immediately where he stood: “We had to rescue that house.”

His plan was both simple and audacious. A much larger “companion house” would be built. It would have to be magnificent to justify the price of the project. Peterson envisioned a long and narrow home, three stories high, overlooking the Revere House, which would be perfectly restored to its original design and would now func-

“In the 1950s, the smaller house was the most famous in Sarasota — one of the Revere Quality Houses, a collection of eight homes spread through the country.”

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KEY LIFE

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ADOPT. FOSTER. VOLUNTEER. DONATE. The crisp modern lines of the Revere Quality House helped define the look of what was to become known as the Sarasota School of Architecture. Ralph Twitchell lived here until he died in 1978.

tion as the larger home’s guest house/ pool house.

Designing a home to match the iconic Revere House was not intimidating, but “it was a huge challenge,” Peterson remembers. “Thank God I had a great house to learn from.”

Peterson studied the techniques and design strategies of Rudolph and Twitchell and adapted many for the new house. The use of wood, for instance. In the older home it’s striated plywood, a mid-century staple no longer made. In the new home it’s Ipe wood from Brazil. Likewise, built-ins are an important part of the design.

In the Peterson home they are carefully crafted and detailed, adding to the beautifully proportioned interior.

Like its older sibling it is a house of horizontal lines, all different and all in perfect harmony.

The biggest difference between the two companions is one of scale. The Revere House is compact; the newer one is anything but. The main living area — located on the second level — is 60 feet long. The lavish scale continues on the third level. It’s entirely devoted

to a primary suite with an office, vast closets, a Zen-like bathroom and a view over the Revere House across the bayou to the Cocoon House, another early Rudolph masterpiece that was built for Regina Twitchell’s father.

It’s not surprising that the current owner, Dave Zaccardelli, is both knowledgeable and passionate about Sarasota’s architectural heritage. He’s been generous in allowing scholars and students to view the home. He even brought Peterson back for some features planned but never built, most notably the roof deck, up a sculptural spiral staircase that leads to a seating area complete with outdoor kitchen and a firepit.

Here he observes his domain — but not for long. The property is now on the market, with a $6.8 million price tag. “It’s time for a new steward,” Zaccardelli says. The Revere House and its guardian angel are a rare combination of history and art. But this is Siesta Key, don’t forget. History and art have rarely been this sublimely The copper hood in the living room extends into the kitchen to vent the stove. The luxurious. meticulously restored space retains the original mid-century design.

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ART AND ABOUT

Kids Just Wanna Make Art These summer camps make it possible.

BY SU BYRON AND MARTY FUGATE CONTRIBUTORS Some people are lifelong art lovers.

That love spans artistic creation, appreciation or support — and sometimes all three. Ask art mavens when the muse stole their hearts and many will reply “childhood.” If they think a little more, they’ll often narrow it down to summertime art programs. And that’s when a flood of happy childhood memories return. Transcendent violin lessons.

A dance class that revealed new possibilities of movement. A figure-drawing class that opened their eyes. The lifelong love that’s born in childhood may lead to a career as a working artist or a deeper grasp of others’ artistry. Either way, it’s a more fulfilling life. The following artful summer camps will all provide these eye-opening moments, along with happy childhood memories.

SARASOTA YOUTH OPERA

Kids and teens discover the magic of opera at Sarasota Youth Opera’s summer camp.

FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE

between the ages of 5 to 17. They’re all winners, but here are three selections: Little Theatre (5 and 6) is all about creating songs and storytelling for the stage. In the end, the kids put on a show for family and friends. Children’s Performing Arts Camp (7-12) is a supportive boot camp for acting, voice, improvisation and dance skills. (Self-esteem is an added bonus.) Teen Improv (13-17) boosts creativity, self-expression and empathy. Teens also learn to create hilarious, unscripted comedy. How cool is that? 941-366-1350; FloridaStudio Theatre.org/fst-school-youth

Courtesy photo

Continued on Page 112

There are dozens of stage experiences available for kids and teens at Florida Studio Theatre this summer.

Opera is magic, and this camp reveals its magic secrets. Adult creative professionals teach talented young kids and teens all they need to know to participate in Sarasota Youth Opera’s summer camp, which is available for every skill level and also provides scholarships. The sessions target two age groups. Kids (8-10) and pre-teens and teens (11-18). Either way, it’s a great start for future opera stars or a great experience for kids who don’t want to make a career out of it but want to enjoy opera’s magic. 941-366-8450; Ext. 249; SarasotaOpera.org/summer-camp FST offers one-week and three-week camp experiences open to young people

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From Long Island to Longboat Key Insuring families since 1963 Continued from Page 110

of “Dungeons and Dragons.” Miniature Worlds (11-14) immerses kids in theatri-

Family owned, we are a full service with markets and experience needed to handle your specific ART CENTER SARASOTA cal design. agency Each camper getsthe to build According to needs.

Pablo Picasso, “Every their own fantastic realm from everyinsurance child is an artist. The problem is how to day materials. (We’re not sure if fanremain artist once he/she grows up.” tasy author George R.solution, R. Martin got If youanare looking for a complete insurance we are your best choice.

Just in time for summer, ACS offers a his start that way. But we wouldn’t be solution for kids and teens — three, ac- surprised.) 941-351-8000; AsoloRep.org/ tually. Creative Kids (6-10) lays a foun- summercamp HOME, CONDO, AUTO, WATERCRAFT, UMBRELLA, FLOOD, EXCESS FLOOD, BUILDERS RISK, SMALL BUSINESS Emerging dation for artistic expression.

Arts (11-15) builds on that foundation. CIRCUS ARTS CONSERVATORY: AND CONDO ASSOCIATIONS Stop Motion Boot Camp (11-15) proves CIRCUS SUMMER CAMP that every child is also a motion picture Thanks to Circus Arts Conservatory, artist. Budding auteurs learn the basics local kids don’t have to run away to join Circus the circus. The of filmmaking — and makeof their Here’s what some ourowncustomers areConservatory’s saying about us: Courtesy photos short film in the process. 941-365-2032; Summer Camp is right in our own Above: Art backyard. The camp’s teachers have ArtSarasota.org/summercamp roots in Sarasota’s circus historypeople manage the risks of everydayCenter “Sandra Smith* and the staff atdeep Secur-All are there to help life.Sarasota ASOLO REP offers a wide and are seasoned circus professionals They have helped me with my ocean front NJ home and my LBK condo. Sandra is there with youselection everyofstep of the way!“ Asolo Rep’s creative camps make a dra- who know the ropes. Their lessons Lynn Walters in kids’ lives. There in circus artistry include acrobatics, summer art matic difference experiences for are many sessions to choose from. clowning, juggling, silks, Hula-Hoops children and Here’s three: Artistic Adventures (6- and multiple permutations of the fly“When moved to Longboat 2014Init the was my 15th move as an adult and 20th in total. I have teens.lived in 3 countries an 7) releasesI young artists’ imaginationKey ingin trapeze. process, they fineLeft:professionals Asolo Rep’s and self-expression with performance, tune students’ coordination and spa8 states. One of the hardest things about moving is the need to find new friends, new doctors and and new creative camps story-building and creative play. Cou- tial awareness. (That stuff’s boring business people who will be trusted advisors. I lucked out seeing the Secur-all sign, walked in, met Sandra Smith and her rageous Creating (8-10) takes kids on to kids, so you might not mention it.) make a dramatic difference in an epic journey role-playing, characteam; whichofwas the beginning of a great relationship. kids’ lives. ter-building, and strategy in the spiritSandra is the most Continued on Page 114 and best provider of all my insurance Of all the places I have lived professional needs. She and her

team are always working for their customers. They take care of EVERYTHING big and small. They never say call your insurance carrier, they say we will call them and call you back. They ALWAYS have your back and everything they do Family you. owned, we really are a full service agency withthem the markets and experience to handle your specific insurance needs. benefits I am fortunate to have in my corner.”

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If you are looking for a complete insurance solution, we are your best choice.

“After meeting Sandra Smith almost 2 years ago, I started referring her and her services to my customers who were needing a reliable, trustworthy, efficient, and competitive insurance agent. Sandra has outperformed my expectations each and every time. Feedback, I consistently hear, are attention to detail, accessibility, responsiveness, knowledge of the market and an overall can-do attitude. In my business of luxury real estate, building trusted relationships with HOME • CONDO • AUTO • WATERCRAFT • UMBRELLA • FLOOD likeminded professionals like Sandra is not just a convenience but a necessity. Sandra has earned my trust and I will EXCESS FLOOD • BUILDERS RISK • SMALL BUSINESS & CONDO ASSOCIATIONS continue to recommend her knowing that she provides the same level of service that is expected by customers. Five star Sandra Smith, Branch Manager/Broker has lived on Longboat Key Since 1996.

Properties Sarasota each and every time.” Rich Polese - REALTOR® She knows the island where youFine live and has the coastal products for hard to place risks.

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Continued from Page 112 941-355-9805; CircusArts.org/programs/ circus-summer-camp-2CircusArts.org/ programs/circus-summer-camp-2

CREARTE LATINO

Whatever form it takes, the language of art empowers creative expression. (To put it another way, when Carlos Santana has a song in his heart, he knows how to play it.) CreArte Latino’s bilingual art courses make sure nothing’s lost in translation. Its Bilingual Acting Workshop (8-10) immerses young actors in the impact of two distinct cultures and languages on their characters. The young artists of its Bilingual Paint & Fun (6-10) join forces to create a painting together. They start with a creation dialogue in Spanish and English. Their bilingual brainstorming results in a joyful, collaborative image celebrating Independence Day. 941-732-7191; CreArteLatino.org

Courtesy photo

Camper Kenneth Dahl learns about the dramatic arts at CreArte Latino.

learning comes easily to kids, Sarasota Ballet wants to get them on their toes early. Its Summer Intensive (11-22) is the place to be for young dancers who want to achieve fluency in ballet’s SARASOTA BALLET wordless communication. Students Ballet has an intentionally designed are guided through a comprehensive movement vocabulary. As language curriculum, including classical and

Photo by Matthew Holler

Young dancers learn technique and artistry at Sarasota Ballet’s Summer Intensive.

modern techniques, variations, repertoire and pas de deux. There are three sessions (June 26-July 29; July 10-July 29; and June 26-July 8). At the end, students show off what they’ve learned in performances called “InMotion,” which are open to the public. 941-2256520; SarasotaBallet.org.

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BEHIND THE MENU

Joe Farrell of Pop’s Sunset Grill Great team. Great food. Sensational views and location.

The secret of Pop’s success is no secret at all.

BY MARTY FUGATE CONTRIBUTOR Joe Farrell is a successful entrepreneur with a superhuman gift for multitasking. The Casey Key resident’s long list of national and global projects includes a winery in Napa Valley, a resort in the Bahamas, film production, and serving on a board at Harvard University that’s devoted to curing Alzheimer’s disease.

Out of all his ventures, Pop’s Sunset Grill, on the Intercoastal Waterway across from Casey Key, holds a special place in Farrell’s heart. It was originally called Urbanek’s Fish House and Pop’s Tropigrill Restaurant and Farrell, as part of a consortium, bought both places in 2001. Under his ambitious leadership, Pop’s has expanded to encompass three bars, indoor and outdoor dining, two kitchens, a gift shop (Pop’s Bou-Tiki), stages for live entertainment and even a place to park your yacht.

Farrell, who lives just down the road from the restaurant, recently shared some insights into his love for all things Pop’s.

Joe Farrell with general manager, Stephanie Brown, and Kristen Farrell.

Photos by Harry Sayer

We’ve honored the former Pop’s Tropigrill and Urbanek’s Fish Market legacy by …

Keeping the things people loved from that history. Our menu has the calling-card items from both restaurants — like the seafood steamer pot from Urbanek’s. We kept the familyfriendly ambiance, affordable pricing and hours.

Continued on Page 124

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Pop’s Punch, packed with pineapple juice and rum, is a powerful people pleaser.

The original Urbanek’s seafood steamer pot brims over with shrimp, mussels, Andouille sausage and corn on the cob.

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Mission: The Paradise Center is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life on Longboat Key by promoting accessible healthcare and providing year-round lifestyle enrichment programs.

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BEHIND THE MENU Continued from Page 122 Our first major changes included …

While keeping the family orientation, we upgraded the atmosphere — no more paper plates and plastic forks.

And it seemed crazy to offer waterfront dining and not specialize in fresh fish. We now have fish delivered six days a week. That meant a major change in our infrastructure.

The impact of adding breakfast in 2022 ...

ports to her. I have oversight, but I don’t get into the nitty-gritty details. I’m just the guy at the bar who looks like me.

The secret of Pop’s popularity is …

Aside from amazing food and a friendly environment, we’ve got front-row seats on the narrowest part of the Intracoastal Waterway. The waters are alive with wildlife. We have manatee and dolphin sightings every day.

We hire employees who …

Fit into the Pop’s family.

That was definitely a big change. We had to create another kitchen to do it.

But it’s really been a hit with customers. You can have an omelet anywhere.

Why not have it at Pop’s and watch the dolphins go by?

The secret of running Pop’s so smoothly is …

Don’t leave Pop’s without trying …

Our shrimp Rangoon. It’s the classic shrimp Rangoon with a twist of sweet chili sauce and pineapple teriyaki glaze.

It wins appetizer of the year often and I think it’s well deserving. Our grouper Ruben is another signature dish. We invented it; others have copied it.

It’s no secret! And the truth is, I don’t.

The general manager, Stephanie Brown, The favorite Pop’s cocktail is … does a fantastic job of running the busi- Pop’s Punch. It’s rum-based and it reness and she has a great team that re- ally packs a punch.

Pop’s shrimp Rangoon is served with a twist of sweet chili sauce and pineapple teriyaki glaze.

When my wife and I travel, the kind of restaurants we seek are …

Italian. We’re in Italy right now, and we haven’t been to a non-Italian restaurant yet. My wife’s favorite food is Mexican. By the end of the vacation, she may change that to Italian!

Who is (or was) “Pops,” by the way?

IF YOU GO Pop’s Sunset Grill

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CAFE GABBIANO

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There’s an intimate dining getaway located on Siesta Key, Café Gabbiano brings a mix of classic and modern Italian dishes. Chef Paolo Di Costanzo, hailing from Ischia Italy brings you a diverse seasonal menu including local fish, handmade pastas, ravioli and Allen Brothers Meats. Certified sommelier, Marc Grimaud, has 200 wines on-site and specializes in pairing the perfect wine with your food. A diverse cocktail program including crated cocktails and bourbon and whisky tastings. Enjoy intimate dining in one of our wine rooms or choose outdoor seating in our climate-controlled patio. This is Italy’s best loved restaurant on Siesta Key.

5104 Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key 941-349-1423 | www.cafegabbiano.com

CAFÉ L’EUROPE

431 St Armands Cir, Sarasota (941) 388-4415 | www.cafeleurope.net

CHEF ROLF’S NEW FLORIDA KITCHEN Restaurant, Tiki Bar, Fine Dining & Ballroom

21660 S. Tamiami Trail, Osprey 941.966.2121 | www.ChefRolf.us

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Chef Rolf offers the perfect location at the CASEY KEY RESORTS MAINLAND for your private event and can accommodate up to 200+ people.

Enjoy all of Chef Rolf’s Amazing Dining Experiences: • The TIKI BAR serving lunch and dinner daily from 12-9pm, happy hour & live music.

• INSIDE DINING ROOM now open for dinner Thursday, Friday, Saturday & brunch on Sunday.

• CORAL ROOM FINE DINING now open Wednesday - Sunday.

• THE OSPREY CAFE serving Breakfast daily 8-11am and Sunday Brunch 11-2pm.

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CELEBRATING 50 YEARS IN 2023

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This season marks Café L’Europe’s 50th year on St. Armands Circle. Whether celebrating life’s most meaningful moments, or simply a Tuesday, we welcome lovers of food and drink for a five-star experience inspired by Europe’s finest bistros.

Spring 2023 brings a reimagined restaurant interior and new dining menus. European culinary tradition inspires scratch-made dishes using local, sustainable ingredients. An exquisite Old World-meets-New World wine list, craft cocktails, and live piano music greet you from our chic lounge.

We aim to celebrate the legacy of our iconic space and honor beloved traditions of Sarasota families, while welcoming new visitors to our beautiful destination.

EUPHEMIA HAYE

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It’s the perfect time to enjoy an evening out at Euphemia Haye! Located in an historic Longboat Key cottage nestled in a tropical garden with palm trees studded in twinkle lights, Euphemia Haye is known for impeccable service, outstanding & eclectic menu, extensive wine list, and indulgent desserts. A longtime favorite of locals and visitors alike, reservations are strongly recommended for the downstairs fine dining but walk-ins are welcome upstairs in the Haye Loft lounge & dessert room.

5540 Gulf of Mexico Dr, Longboat Key 941.383.3633 | www.euphemiahaye.com

KELLY’S For more than 70 years, Kelly’s Roast Beef has been the staple of the North Shore of Boston, renowned for its thinly sliced “melt-in-yourmouth” roast-beef sandwiches and generous platters of New England seafood. Enjoy fried whole- bellied clams, lobster rolls, scallops, homemade clam chowder along with our traditional customer favorites. 100% of our menu can be made gluten free!

Open Every Day 11am-9pm

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941.263.1911 | www.kellysroastbeef.com

Siesta Key Oyster Bar, or “SKOB” as the locals call it, is the hangout with the laid-back, beachy atmosphere that will put you in the Island Spirit. Our food is just one of the reasons we are #1 on the Key! From Raw Oysters and Fresh Seafood to All-Natural Burgers and Chicken Wings, there is something for everyone on the menu.

With over 21 beers on tap including Local Craft Beer, Domestic and Specialty Imports plus a variety of creative Specialty Cocktails you will not go away thirsty!

We have live music every day and night with some of the best local musicians around.

So, the next time you are in the heart of Siesta Key Village and want to relax with a frosty beverage, enjoy some fantastic food, or listen to great live music, stop by SKOB, the Hot Spot in Siesta Key.You’ll be glad you did!

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Great Food

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5238 Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key 941.346.5443 | skob.com

KEY ENCOUNTERS JOAN M. DURANTE PARK PHOTO BY NANCY GUTH

When you think of Longboat Key, a postcardperfect scene of sugary white beaches stretching for miles alongside the turquoise Gulf of Mexico probably springs to mind. It’s an accurate picture. But this island has another side.

Joan M. Durante Park is a slice of subtropical paradise along Sarasota Bay. If you’re seeking a key encounter with Florida’s luscious flora and fauna, look no further. This 32-acre park boasts

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thriving wetlands and a coastal hammock ecosystem. In this magical space, the pace of life slows down. You’re on nature’s time with zero stress and infinite possibilities. There are miles of walking trails, a children’s playground and a boardwalk that winds through mangrove forests and leads to a killer view of the bay. Your destination is up to you. Meditate beneath a gumbo limbo tree. Sit by the pond and watch water birds sweep down for their afternoon sip.

Wander down any path with no particular direction. Wherever you go, you’ve clearly arrived.

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