While enjoying the beach on Longboat Key, resident Terri Driver saw an unusual animal: a green iguana that she named Iggy.
Green iguanas are considered an invasive species in Florida and should be removed, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. They can be detrimental to native landscaping and can damage infrastructure due to the large burrows they dig.
The large iguanas can grow to over 5 feet in length and weigh up to 17 pounds. They are native to Central America and parts of South America and are seen in the wild as an invasive species in South Florida.
It’s unknown how the green iguana ended up on Longboat Key, but the FWC website says individuals in more northern Florida counties could also be escaped or released captive animals.
Longboat Chamber members provide free food
Nothing is a mood booster on Longboat Key like free food.
American PHC Construction and JTR Recovery in Sarasota served free hot dogs and hamburgers all day on Oct. 30 at the Centre Shops of Longboat Key to promote positivity and provide hurricane relief.
“We are members of the Longboat Key Chamber and wanted to do something to help because of how much the hurricanes affected them,” said Jonathan Dean, CEO and founder of American PHC. Dean said they served around 100 people that day while informing them about what services they offer.
Rivera
Stylist Sandra LaRose from Design 2000 Salon works with a client at David Gregory Salon. The latter welcomed in stylists after Design 2000 suffered damage from the hurricanes.
Carter Weinhofer
Petra Rivera
Bob Mackay, Jonathan Dean and Kasey Deutsch
WEEK OF NOV. 7, 2024
BY THE NUMBERS
$200K
The
n
n
“As
far as the sand is concerned, the state plans on starting that part of the removal
process the week of Dec. 2.”
Assistant Director of Public Works Charlie Mopps
Read more on page 5A
Breeze Airways adds multiple routes from SRQ
Low-cost carrier Breeze Airways is bringing service to multiple destinations from Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport beginning this fall and winter.
On Thursday, the airline began service to and from New York-Westchester, New York, with flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays.
In addition, the airline has announced flights between SRQ and: Akron-Canton, Ohio, on Wednesdays and Saturdays starting Nov. 20; Portland, Maine, on Wednesdays and
Saturdays starting Nov. 20; Long Island-Islip, New York, on Thursdays and Sundays starting Nov. 21; Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina, on Mondays and Fridays starting Nov. 22; Richmond, Virginia, on Mondays and Fridays starting Nov. 22; Syracuse, New York, with one stop/no plane change on Mondays and Fridays starting Nov. 22; New Haven, Connecticut, on Mondays and Fridays starting Feb. 7, 2025.
“Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport is excited to support the continued expansion of nonstop destinations provided
by Breeze,” said SRQ President and CEO Rick Piccolo in a news release.
Breeze offers premium seating options and high-speed WiFi on its fleet of new Airbus A220300 aircraft.
The airline has been recognized as a four-star low-cost carrier at the 2025 Airline Passenger Experience Association Five-Star and Four-Star Airline Awards. Earlier this year, Breeze was ranked in the top five of Travel + Leisure’s “Best Domestic Airlines.”
Building permit fee waiver extended
The town of Longboat Key recently extended the fee waiver for building permits as residents and business owners work to recover from Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
At the Town Commission’s Nov. 4 regular meeting, commissioners passed a resolution to extend the temporary waiver of fees, which now lasts until April 30, 2025.
After Hurricane Helene, the commission passed the first temporary fee waiver to assist in recovery efforts and make the rebuilding process smoother for the community. The fee waiver applies for construction permits related to storm damage like lanai screens, seawalls, demolition, air conditioning replacements and concrete repair. For more information, contact the Planning, Zoning & Building Department at 941-316-1966.
Lido Beach reopened
Lido Beach reopened to the public Nov. 2, following effects from hurricanes Helene and Milton in the past month.
The Lido Beach Pavilion parking lot, beach access walkways, public restrooms and concession stand are open and lifeguards will be on duty. Buckled concrete sidewalks were removed and replaced with new concrete slabs. Washed-out beach access points were cleared of storm debris and restored for pedestrians. An exposed cavity beneath a seawall was backfilled with sand. The restrooms and concession area also were deep-cleaned.
The sand removed from roadways immediately following the back-toback hurricanes and staged in the Lido Beach Pavilion parking lot, has been relocated to the east side of the parking lot and cordoned off. Some areas near the beach may still be closed to the public due to safety concerns. Beachgoers are urged to obey signs and stay behind caution tape and barricades, including areas in the parking lot. North Lido Beach and South Lido Beach at Ted Sperling Park are still closed.
Courtesy photo
$
Poststorm promos
WEINHOFER | STAFF WRITER
Peak season is around the corner, and regional tourism organizations are focused on drawing visitors to local businesses after two hurricanes. Hurricane Helene spared Manatee and Sarasota Counties from direct hits, and Hurricane Milton lost most of its strength before hitting Siesta Key in early October. Still, the damage dealt by both storms left the area — specifically the islands like Longboat Key and Anna Maria — in disarray.
Visit Sarasota County and the Bradenton Area
Visitors and Convention Bureau are ready to assist local businesses with new campaigns, and to continue promoting the area in a positive way to galvanize the upcoming tourist season.
Director of Partnership and Community Relations for Visit Sarasota County Hunter Carpenter said the process after hurricanes involves both checking on local businesses and helping draw people to those that are ready to open.
“Recovery in the hospitality industry locally is a nuanced journey,” Carpenter said. “Because in addition to the damage and debris in the immediate aftermath, we’re also grappling with perception.”
After Hurricanes Helene and Milton, a major part of Visit Sarasota County’s job was communicating with local businesses to offer resources and check on their status. This was the same for the BACVB and Executive Director Elliott Falcione.
“One of the most important areas that we focus on is getting that messaging out in a timely manner,” Falcione said. “But we wanted to make sure that the community was ready for it.”
Part of that messaging for both Visit Sarasota County and the BACVB was to help show the full story of this area. Falcione said images on social media and national news showed the area in a tight lens, not zoomed out to show the full picture.
“We had to take a look at the national media, how they were perceiving our destination from a damage assessment standpoint. It was not as accurate as we would have liked,” Falcione said, adding that some of the BACVB’s ongoing marketing efforts target mis-messaging.
Carpenter shared similar sentiments, stating that Visit Sarasota County is also focused on shedding a positive light on post-hurricane
recovery for local businesses.
“We know that people outside of our community were exposed to videos and images and testimonials about the impacts that both Helene and Milton had on our whole community ... and we know that it doesn’t tell the whole story about our destination,” Carpenter said.
Visit Sarasota County and the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau hope to shine a positive light on the area through campaigns and promotions to key markets. WAYS TO HELP
While it’s important to show the truth about the damage that both Hurricanes Helene and Milton had on the region, Carpenter said it’s equally important to show the resiliency and to help local businesses move forward.
DRAWING IN BUSINESS
Carpenter and Falcione agreed that Hurricanes Helene and Milton had larger impacts on the barrier islands than on the mainland. The “curb appeal” of the mainland is the lesser issue now, Falcione said.
Both Visit Sarasota County and the BACVB worked quickly to contact local businesses. Falcione described it as assessing the “pulse” of the hospitality industry on the islands.
“Staff is constantly communicating with (local businesses) via telephone so we have a pulse of who’s open, who’s about to be open,” Falcione said.
Falcione’s BACVB focuses on the mainland area of Bradenton and the Gulf Islands, such as Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key.
According to Falcione, about two dozen restaurants have reopened on Anna Maria Island, with about 40%60% of the hospitality businesses ready for business. On Longboat Key,
For more information on the “Support the 941” campaign, visit the website at VisitSarasota.com/ Support-941. Also, see page 8A for a list of businesses that are open.
CARTER
Courtesy photo
Visit Sarasota County works to attract nature tourism, capitalizing on activities such as kayaking at The Bay park.
Staff photo
Marine Max suffered its worst losses with Hurricane Milton. A staff member said damage to its Venice outlet was not as bad.
March 2025 election dates set
The general election will take place on March 11, 2025, and a preliminary election, if necessary, will be held on Jan. 28, 2025.
CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER
At the town commission’s Nov. 4 regular meeting, commissioners took the first step to officially set dates for the upcoming election, which will determine three commission seats.
According to the ordinance, the upcoming general election will take place on March 11, 2025, and, if needed, the preliminary election will take place on Jan. 28, 2025. The resolution to set the dates was passed to its second reading, which will take place on Dec. 2.
The qualifying period for the three commission seats is ongoing until Nov. 18. During that time, candidates must secure signatures from qualified voters in the town and present the proper documents to the town clerk’s office.
If three or more individuals are running for the same town commission seat, then the preliminary election will need to take place on Jan. 28, 2025, to vote for the candidates who will face each other in the March 2025 general election.
But, if two or fewer candidates run for each of the available commission seats, then the preliminary election will not be held.
Two at-large commission seats will become available this spring. One of those is currently held by Vice Mayor Mike Haycock, who will reach his term limit and therefore be ineligible for reelection.
Commissioner-At-Large BJ Bishop’s seat will also be up for election, and she has previously stated that she intends to run again for the same seat.
District 5 Commissioner Sarah Karon’s commission seat will be another one on the ballot due to unusual circumstances. Karon is currently serving a 14-month term, for which she earned the appointment by fellow commissioners in January after the resignation of Debbie Murphy.
Murphy cited the state’s new Form 6 requirement as the key reason behind her resignation.
LONGBOAT TO EMAIL US
Karon then took over the District 5 commission seat for 14 months, until the next general election, which will be the March 2025 election. The candidate who is elected in the March 2025 election will serve the remainder of Murphy’s original term, which extends through March 2026.
Recently, Murphy submitted her paperwork to the town clerk’s office to run for Haycock’s At-Large Commission seat.
Residents interested in running for any of the commission seats must secure 10 petitions signed by qualified voters in the town and submit the documents to the town clerk’s office.
For more information, contact the town clerk’s office at 941-316-1999 or TShinkle@LongboatKey.org.
1970 Main St., Third Floor, Sarasota, FL 34236
Email press releases, announcements and Letters to the Editor to: Kat Wingert, kwingert@yourobserver.com TO ADVERTISE
TOURISM FROM PAGE 3A
Falcione estimated that number to be higher, about 60%-80%.
Looking ahead at the upcoming winter and peak tourist season, Falcione is hopeful for a return to normalcy.
“I don’t expect any kind of seasonality shift,” Falcione said. “People are resilient.”
While Falcione said he has heard of cancellations for this winter, he expects those to be restored by other visitors.
“It is peak demand time of the year, so those who have canceled, we feel confident that we’ll replace them with other visitors for this winter,” Falcione said.
Carpenter said some local businesses needed assistance for structural damage, which was available through small business loans and disaster recovery assistance organizations like the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
“Now that many of our local businesses are opening or planning to be operational in the coming weeks, their main question has been: How can we reenergize our season?” Carpenter said.
Now that businesses are starting to recover and want to ensure a positive tourist season, Carpenter said it was important to launch initiatives like the new “Florida’s West Coast.”
“What they’re more concerned about is the impact on season,” Carpenter said. “And so that’s where these campaigns are coming in to address some of those concerns.”
According to Carpenter, Visit Sarasota County and the BACVB were quick to get on the phone with
each other after the storms and work on joint initiatives.
This joining of forces led to the “Florida’s West Coast” campaign, which launched on Nov. 1. A $200,000 investment — $100,000 from each organization — will help to promote “hidden gems” of Sarasota and Manatee counties to different priority markets for the two organizations.
These priority markets include places like New York, Boston, Chicago, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. Part of the campaign is an increase in social media marketing, which Carpenter said is the main method people rely on to choose destinations.
“It’s quite a collaborative effort, and we intend to really lean into this campaign through November and December,” Carpenter said.
Using these marketing strategies, Visit Sarasota County and the BACVB hope to promote a positive perception of the area while businesses recover, which helps to change the idea outsiders might have of the region after seeing images of destruction.
“The idea is, as the world sees the vitality of our region, that battle with perception will start to become easier won,” Carpenter said.
On top of the “Florida’s West Coast” campaign, Visit Sarasota County decided to turn its existing “Fun in the 941” initiative into “Support the 941.”
Carpenter said local businesses don’t need to be partners of Visit Sarasota County to be involved in the “Support the 941” initiative. Businesses just need to email Visit Sarasota County to get promotions and events added to the calendar.
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File photo
Residents interested in running for any of the commission seats must submit documents to the town clerk’s office by Nov. 18.
Courtesy photo
Sarasota County's beaches are a main attraction for seasonal tourists.
Sand removal to begin in Dec.
The sand removal process will be handled by the state after vegetation, construction and demolition debris removal from Gulf of Mexico Drive is completed.
When will the sand be removed from Longboat Key’s main road, Gulf of Mexico Drive?
That’s a question many residents ask while driving along the stateowned highway. Town officials say the removal process will start in early December as a part of the cleanup process.
According to Assistant Director of Public Works Charlie Mopps, the Florida Department of Transportation will handle the sand removal process.
“As far as the sand, the state plans on starting that part of the removal process the week of Dec. 2,” Mopps said. Similarly to the ongoing cleanup process on GMD, the town will not need to contribute any funds to the sand cleanup. This is a part of the state’s commitment to clean up the GMD corridor.
“The FDOT has a contract and a mutual agreement with some agencies to help them along our corridor in the cleanup effort,” Mopps said. Currently, the state is working on sweeps of GMD to remove vegetation debris and construction and demolition debris. Mopps said the state
needs to clean up those debris types between now and Dec. 1.
When the FDOT gets to the sand removal, dump trucks filled with sand will be taken to the Manatee County sifting site, which likely will be the site currently stationed in the Coquina Beach parking lot.
After the state and FDOT remove the sand and hand it over to Manatee County, the sand will then be “owned” by Manatee County.
“Because they’re the ones operating the sand sifting operation, they’re assuming responsibility of that material,” Mopps said.
Mopps speculated that, after the sand is sifted to ensure harmful
DEBRIS COLLECTION UPDATE
On the town’s public neighborhood roads, about 29,387.5 cubic yards of debris have been collected to date. From Oct. 28 to Nov. 3, the debris collected was: n 100.5 cubic yards of construction, demolition and appliance debris n 8,098 cubic yards of vegetative debris
debris is removed, it will only be used on Manatee County-owned beaches like Coquina Beach. At the town commission’s Nov. 12 workshop, commissioners will hear from Mopps and consultants hired by the town about the state of the town’s beaches. Mopps said data is still being finalized, but the initial estimates show a “fairly large” impact from the hurricanes. Because it doesn’t look hopeful that the town will regain the sand left on GMD, the town will work with the Federal Emergency Management Agency to secure funds for future beach nourishment projects.
“The town is currently working through the FEMA process to establish a claim for damages to the beach,” Mopps said. “And what we’ll hopefully be able to do is, through FEMA, reestablish additional dunes and additional beach for losses.”
First, though, the town staff and consultants need to quantify and qualify the loss of sand for the FEMA claim, data that Mopps said will be available at the Nov. 12 workshop.
PRIVATE PROPERTY SAND
While the sand on GMD might not return to Longboat, Mopps said there’s still an opportunity for sand on private property to be re-utilized on Longboat Key beaches.
According to the Planning, Zoning & Building Department website, private property owners are “strongly encouraged” to remove contaminated sand using a private contractor or place it on the public right-of-way. If it’s moved to the right-of-way, it must be separated from other types of debris.
But, private property owners can move clean sand back onto the beach.
The town encourages this sand to be placed on the dune and berm areas, which act as a natural storm barrier.
The PZB website states: “Clean sand is defined by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection as follows: In general, all fill material shall be sand that is similar to the pre-storm beach sand in coloration and grain size. It shall be free of debris, rock, clay, organic matter or other foreign matter and shall not result in cementation of the beach.”
For more information about placing sand back on beaches, contact the PZB department at 941-316-1966.
Real Estate Values Post Hurricane
Will damaged homes sell for less after a hurricane?
History shows that home sales happen less frequent and at a lower cost immediately after a storm. However, as the study at Colorado State University found, this negative impact is short-lived. In Texas, after two months from the flooding left by Hurricane Harvey, 31% of residential neighborhoods saw an increase in median home prices.
What is the initial impact on affected real estate?
Locally, we expect to see a short-term increase in demand for new housing in inland locations. This occurred after Hurricane Ian, and we expect the same will occur now. If you are considering this course of action, we help you sort through your options.
How does the FEMA 50% rule affect rebuilding efforts?
A property in a flood zone that suffers substantial damage and the cost to repair exceed 50% of the “market value” of the pre-damaged condition, the structure must be brought up to current code and standards. The market value does not include the value of the land, swimming pool, fences, or other improvements. For more information go to floodplansreview@scgov.net.
Can I expect investor interest after a hurricane?
Yes, investors often target hurricane-damaged homes for potential flips or rental properties. They look for distressed properties they can purchase at lower prices.
What home improvements can boost value after a hurricane? Impact-resistant windows and doors, reinforced roofs, and elevated foundations can significantly provide value to your home and therefore attract more buyers.
Should I sell my damaged home or repair it?
This depends on your financial situation, repair costs, and market conditions. There is a difference between restoring and renovating your property — we can help you understand your options.
How do you sell home after a hurricane?
We would highlight your recent property enhancements and promote resilient features. Leverage high quality visuals, including virtual renovation photography and development high engaging digital marketing using social media. This is when hiring experienced agents is important!
With over 50 years of local real estate experience, we’re here to
Carter Weinhofer
Crews work at the sand pile station at Coquina Beach, which sifts sand left behind by Hurricane Helene’s surge.
Snowbirds try to stay positive
s seasonal resident Sue Reese gears up to visit Longboat Key for the first time since Hurricanes Helene and Milton, she can’t help but be anxious to see her condominium in Spanish Main Yacht Club.
“Everyone has told me that they start crying even before they get to their house,” said Reese. “We have been there since 1992, and we have never seen our community this divided. It is hard to be away because we get new reports every day. Everyone has different ideas on how to
Though Longboat was left in destruction after the two hurricanes, snowbirds are preparing to make the most of the season on Longboat Key.
move forward.”
Reese’s daughter flew down from Denver, Colorado, right after Hurricane Helene and decided everything would have to be replaced. Reese lost her refrigerator, dishwasher, sink and oven. Her flooring and carpeting had to be ripped up as well.
Just like Reese, many snowbirds have no idea what Longboat Key looks like. She said it is hard for snowbirds to decipher whether it is worth coming back for the season when they are currently in the northern part of the country.
Reese said the biggest concern has been the piles of debris and belongings along the street, which makes it hard to drive down the narrow streets of Spanish Main.
This has caused many of her neighbors to wonder if they want to come back at all. She said new owners are ready to leave, while longtime
snowbirds want to work to restore it.
Reese is en route this week to scope out the situation and decide what her next steps are. She plans to stay with her daughter in Sarasota until she can get back into her condominium.
As their full-time friends fill them in, Reese and other seasonal residents try to stay positive and hope for the best for the season.
Reaching out to her other groups of community involvement, Reese was delighted to hear the Longboat Island Chapel is working to open its annual “Christmas in the Garden” event in December. Reese said these events will motivate the community to move forward and regain its optimistic environment.
Snowbird Mary Del Pup is grateful for communication from her neighbors from Seaplace Condominiums through the hurricanes. It has calmed her concerns about how the
season is going to look this year.
“It will be different,” said Del Pup. “But most of the restaurants are opening, and events are going to be back on at my church and at Seaplace. I think the community is what is making us pick back up. We will always support each other, so I know we will make the most of what we can this year until we are back to normal.”
Del Pup plans to return for the season as normal, coming back the week of Thanksgiving. She said her condominium didn’t have much damage, but the hurricanes did push back renovations on her home.
Del Pup’s neighbor, Gary Kemper, is also looking forward to being back on the island even though it might not be the same aesthetic-wise.
With restaurants and golf courses opening, Kemper said he will be back on Longboat at the end of November, with his schedule seeming normal despite the effect of the hurricanes. For Kemper, Longboat Key is so much more than its paradise-like atmosphere.
“I already have a reservation for Columbia (Restaurant) on the (Nov.) 26, when I get there,” said Kemper. “But it’s more than that. The people are really what make Longboat, and that is what we are going back to.
Longboat is a very special place with resilient people, and I think it will continue to be that special place.”
“Everyone has told me that they start crying even before they get to their house.”
“I think the community is what is making us pick back up. We will always support each
“Longboat is a very special place with resilient people, and I think it will continue to be that special place.”
Sue Reese
other ... ”
Mary Del Pup
Gary Kemper
Courtesy images
Sue Reese’s condominium at Spanish Main Yacht Club had to be cleaned out after the hurricanes while she was in Pennsylvania.
A neighbor sent seasonal resident Sue Reese this photo of her condominium at Spanish Main Yacht Club.
Mind these businesses
Sarasotans always get behind a good cause. Now it’s time to support the 941.
The election is over. (Yay!) Hurricane Rafael has decided to veer west. (Double yay!)
Repairs to our homes and businesses and debris cleanup will continue for weeks and, in some cases, months. Be patient.
During the cleanup, no doubt, we’ll discover new issues or learn how to adjust to the changes that Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton caused to the Gulf Coast. Some of those changes are good — yay, Midnight Pass! Some of them require big decisions — replacing Longboat Pass Bridge (see story on YourObserver.com). Some of them small: We’re still searching for our red distribution boxes that blew off Longboat, Lido and Siesta during the storms. One turned up in a Siesta Key homeowner’s front yard on Monday.
Floridians are resilient. Much like the resilient shoreline built at the Bay Park in downtown Sarasota — which worked fabulously. In fact, the Bay Park’s two-year anniversary events and concerts held a little more than a week after Hurricane Milton’s historic landfall in Sarasota attracted more than 3,000 people. Sarasotans were ready for something to do. As Boo! At the Bay | Family Halloween Celebration attendee Karen Mills said, “We needed happy.” So, here’s something else we can do: Support the 941.
After hearing from business organizations like the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, Visit Sarasota sprang into action with the Support the 941 social media campaign to highlight the businesses that are open. Many of these businesses that need our support are in the hardest hit areas, the barrier islands — Longboat, Lido, St. Armands and Siesta keys.
Below you’ll find a list of businesses that are open and back in business. To kick-start the reopening efforts of these businesses, Visit Sarasota, the Sarasota Chamber, Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce and Blasé Martini Bar of Watershed Hospitality Group are hosting a “We are Open Party” from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 7, at Blasé Martini Bar. To register, visit SarasotaChamber.com.
This weekend, Howard Alan Events is hosting the 35th annual St. Armands Circle Art Festival from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9, to Sunday, Nov. 10, which will benefit the St. Armands Circle Association. St. Armands Circle businesses will also participate in a sidewalk sale during the festival.
When Heather Kasten, president and CEO of the Greater Sarasota Chamber, spoke Oct. 24 at the chamber’s annual meeting, she spoke of adversity and resilience.
“How we handle adversity defines our culture,” Kasten said. “Do we panic, retreat? Or do we adapt, innovate and lead with resilience? … Remember, adversity reveals the character” of who we are.
“Let’s lead with courage, with compassion and with a vision that extends beyond our own success and into this community that we love and serve.”
That’s great encouragement and motivation for all of us. #SupportThe941!
SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT
Tucked in this week’s Observer, Matt Walsh, owner of the Observer Media Group Inc., publishes the introduction to a new book, “The Pfizer Papers: Pfizer’s Crimes Against Humanity.” The book provides Pfizer documents showing the company knew its COVID-19 vaccine was not “safe and effective” and, in fact, was harmful and deadly.
“This supplement is a personal journalistic mission,” Walsh says. “It is our responsibility to report and shine the light of truth on the good, the bad, the ugly.”
The section is also at YourObserver.com/News/ Opinion.
#SUPPORTTHE941
Get out, shop, dine and support Sarasota’s small businesses, and don’t forget to use the hashtag #SupportThe941 on social media. They need happy.
CITY ISLAND
■ New Pass Grill & Bait Shop
■ MarineMax Sarasota
■ Sarasota Bay Explorers
LIDO KEY
■ Drift Kitchen & Bar
■ Lido Beach Concession
■ Lido Beach Resort
LONGBOAT KEY
■ Ace Hardware of Longboat Key
■ All Angels by the Sea Episcopal Church
■ Backyard Bike Shop
■ Bank of America
■ Beach Fitness 24/7
■ Blue Dolphin Café
■ Chart House
■ Chase Bank
■ Christ Church of Longboat Key, Presbyterian U.S.A.
■ Creative Kitchens & Baths
■ CVS Longboat Key
■ CW Prime, St. Regis Longboat
Key Resort
■ David Gregory Salon
■ Design 200 for Hair & Nails
■ Driftwood Beach Home and Garden
■ Dry Dock Waterfront Grill
■ Euphemia Haye Restaurant and The Haye Loft
■ Exit Art
■ Guppy’s LBK
■ Harry’s Corner Store
■ Holistic Healing & Wellness
Center
■ Hugo II Restaurant (located at Cedars East Tennis Resort)
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Rachel Denton; Tami Lanham; her husband Philip Lanham, who is president and CEO of Gulf Coast Community Foundation; and Emily Joslin were among those who staffed the foundation’s trick-or-treat stations at Boo! At the Bay this past weekend.
Friends and Neighbors,
The storms we have endured in the past number of weeks have been devastating, and their effects will be felt throughout our community for a long time. Recently, we’ve heard from many friends and past clients who have been seriously affected and are uncertain about their immediate next steps.
Historically, our Seaward Companies have focused primarily on new construction— both residential and commercial—as well as consulting services. However, in light of the many inquiries we’ve received, we are now prepared to extend our services to those in our community who have been most impacted by the storm. We are ready to meet with property owners to discuss the best options moving forward.
Our Seaward team members are here to assist our clients and friends with all of your needs at this time.
•
Substantial Home Remodeling
Let us assist you with a full scope of services including initial assessment, engineering, selective demolition, and through the execution of your property restoration.
• New Home Construction
Let our team guide you from architect selection and home design through vertical construction on a new or replacement elevated home with enhanced hurricane resistance safety features.
• Sale of your Property
For owners who desire to sell their property at this time and forego a construction project, we may be able to assist by purchasing your property. Alternatively, we can also connect you with one of our island team members from our real estate division at The DiPinto Group at Coldwell Banker to accommodate your real estate needs.
We at Seaward Companies are happy to meet with you to discuss all options that you may be considering at this time. We understand over the past two weeks that these storms have affected everyone differently and there is no “one size fits all” solution. What we can do now, is provide you with as much information as possible regarding your property options, from local and trusted professionals in our marketplace. With this important information you will be in the position to make the best decision for you and your family moving forward.
Best regards.
Patrick DiPinto Seaward Homes and Seaward Consulting
Sarasota roofing firm provides pick-me-up
Despite seeing his business multiply after the storm, the president of Sutter Roofing says he believes it’s important to take time out to help the community.
ELIZABETH KING
Aroofing company was working with its crane on Longboat Key in the weeks after Hurricane Milton when the superintendent received a phone call. It was someone from Ski-A-Rees, the nonprofit that performs water ski shows on City Island, asking if the company could help: The group’s bleachers had been thrown into the water during the hurricane. Could
Sutter Roofing help get them out with its crane?
“I heard them talking about it, and they said we’re too busy,” Doug Sutter, president of Sutter Roofing, recalled of his team. It’s true: His Sarasota-based company, with $82.78 million in revenue in 2023, has been on nonstop calls since Hurricane Milton. But he felt strongly that it should lend a hand to a group in need. “I said, ‘That’s a great organization for the community. We’re going to help them out.’ We have the equipment and expertise to do that, so I told them to make it happen, and they made it happen.”
Once Sutter Roofing got the call from the Ski-A-Rees, it took a couple of days to coordinate, according to Sutter. At first, he says, his employees thought they might have to take a swim, but the crane ended up getting the job done. Afterward, he said, the
If you were affected by Helene or Milton and find yourself overwhelmed by the decisions, choices, questions, and options facing you, we can help. We’re hosting 4 educational sessions to provide info on Sarasota’s most popular neighborhoods.
Based on your input, we will invite an appraiser, insurance agent, and real estate attorney to answer questions.
If you’d like info ahead of the sessions, let us know by calling 941-993-3695.
team experienced the gratification that came with providing assistance to an organization in need.
“It feels good to help,” Sutter said. “We want to be a good corporate citizen and take care of things.”
Ski-A-Rees is a “really good organization,” he added. “I know a lot of people who went through there and sent their kids through there.”
Even before Hurricane Milton arrived, the home of the Ski-A-Rees was damaged. During Hurricane Helene, the group’s costume shed was ripped open and outfits strewn across the water and trees, while its clubhouse was deemed a total loss due to storm surge, according to a GoFundMe page the group set up after the Sept. 26 storm. The campaign had raised $1,375 of its $25,000 goal as of Oct. 30.
Less than two weeks after Hurricane Helene left the Ski-A-Rees site in tatters, Hurricane Milton blew through Oct. 9 and tossed the bleachers into the water. The group had to cancel its fall shows as it rebuilds.
“One step at a time, we will get this site fixed back up and ready to perform again soon!” the Ski-A-Rees posted on Facebook Oct. 25, sharing the news of the bleacher rescue.
Both before and after the storms, Sutter said his company has steered its resources toward local causes.
Prior to Hurricane Milton’s arrival, “we helped out on Siesta Key with a bunch of dumpsters to help get all the debris out of Siesta Key Village,”
Sutter said, since there was still much to be picked up from Hurricane Helene. Sutter Roofing also helped with roofing damage at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall and was on-site at the Museum of Science & Industry in Tampa the day after Hurricane Milton because of a roof blowoff, Sutter said. In the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, Sutter estimates Sutter Roofing has received about 2,000 calls for service. Usually after a big rain event, he says, the commercial roofing company may get 100 calls.
“We’ve added about six trucks since the storm,” he said. “We’re seeing a definite uptick in business. Our service division is super busy. We’re running 40 trucks every day trying to take care of people’s needs. We’re whittling it down.” Tall buildings on the beaches sustained most of the damage from the winds, he said, and his company has been working from Clearwater to Boca Grande on repairs.
Currently, he said the company is booking projects into next year, noting Sutter Roofing was already working on new construction and other jobs when the storms hit. However, he says, his crews will make time to help organizations in the community that are in need.
“If you’re a nonprofit that sustained some damages, we want to help you,” said Sutter. “When the community suffers, we all suffer, so we do what we can to help people out.”
Photos by Elizabeth King
Sutter Roofing provided the crane to lift the bleachers for the Ski-A-Rees water ski team out of the water. The bleachers had blown into Sarasota Bay as a result of Hurricane Milton.
Sutter Roofing came to the aid of the Ski-A-Rees water ski team recently with the company’s massive crane to help lift the bleachers out of the water. Hurricane Milton blew the bleachers into Sarasota Bay.
LECTURE SERIES
PAINTING CURRENT EVENTS
QIGONG YOGA MEDITATION
BRIDGE MAH JONGG CANASTA
SUPREME COURT AMERICAN HISTORY
LITERATURE & POETRY MOVIE & BOOK GROUPS
MUSIC & ART APPRECIATION JAZZ NIGHTS
MORNING FORUMS THEOLOGY WORLD POLITICS
FILM FESTIVALS THEATRICAL PERFORMANCES
AUTOBIOGRAPHY iPHONE & iPAD BIRDING
NATURE WALKS WELLNESS
LANGUAGES SUNDAY CONCERTS
BROADWAY BIOS CRAFTS
SPECIAL ONE-TIME EVENTS & MUCH MORE!
Under The Sun To
Many Programs Available on Zoom.
THE EDUCATION CENTER AT TEMPLE BETH ISRAEL 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key, FL 34228
VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.TBIeducationcenter.org
For a brochure or inquiries call: (941) 383-8222 or email Admin@tbieducationcenter.org
TUESDAY
MUSIC LED BY AN ALL-FAITHS CHOIR under
FRIDAY, OCT. 25
SUSPICIOUSLY SLOW
8:34 p.m., 4500 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive
Vehicle Stop: While on patrol, an officer observed a vehicle traveling around 26-30 mph in a 45 mph zone and was impeding traffic. The officer stopped the vehicle and advised the driver of the reason behind the stop. When the officer asked for the driver’s license and registration, the driver handed the officer a foreign passport and admitted to never having a valid driver’s license. He said he was heading to a residence on Longboat Key to provide a construction quote. The officer issued the driver a criminal citation and other traffic citations and told the driver he could not drive the vehicle any further.
SATURDAY, OCT. 26
SITTING SUSPICIOUSLY IN THE SEDAN
7:41 p.m., 500 block of Rountree Drive
Suspicious Person: Dispatch sent an officer to investigate a report of four suspicious people sitting in a tan sedan. Upon arrival, the officer found the vehicle in question and saw three men sitting in the vehicle with the doors open. The officer approached the men and asked what they were up to, and they said they were part of a construction crew currently working on the residence where they were parked. No criminal activity was observed, and the officer let the men be.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 30
SUSPICIOUS SCRAPPER
4:50 a.m., 3500 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Suspicious Incident: While on routine patrol, an officer observed a man attempting to load an appliance into his vehicle. The appliance had been left on the side of GMD for trash pickup. The officer approached the man and advised him that scrapping along GMD was against town ordinances, and he was given a written warning before leaving the scene.
LETTING THE CAR DRY OUT
10:08 a.m., 4300 block of Falmouth Drive Suspicious Vehicle: Dispatch sent
FRIDAY, OCT. 25
POST OFFICE PROBLEMS
1:02 p.m., 500 block of Bay Isles Road
Disturbance: An officer responded to a reported disturbance in which a man refused to leave the Longboat Key Post Office. When the officer arrived at the post office, he observed the man yelling at post office staff members, and the officer asked him to step outside to talk. The man said he had recently lost everything except for some paintings in the hurricanes, and now he wanted to ship the paintings to his house up north. According to the man, a post office staff member said the paintings were too large to ship, and they would not accept them. The man said he argued back and explained he measured the paintings to ensure they were acceptable, but the post office staff member pushed the boxes back at him, which struck him in the stomach.
The post office staff member said he didn’t want to make a big deal out of this, but wanted the man to leave the post office. The officer then spoke with the painting owner again, and he agreed to leave the building.
an officer to investigate a suspicious vehicle that was reported to be sitting in a parking lot with the hood and doors open. At the scene, the responding officer observed the vehicle and saw that it had sustained considerable flooding from the hurricane. In the back seat area were containers used to remove moisture, and the officer confirmed that the registered owner lives in the complex where it was parked.
It’s Time to Give Your MEDICARE COVERAGE A CHECKUP
To help people with Medicare make informed decisions for the coming year, Sarasota Memorial offers this information about Medicare Open Enrollment, now taking place through December 7.
This year, Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period runs from October 15 through December 7.
During this time, Medicare recipients can make changes to their health and prescription drug coverage, including:
returning to Original Medicare (also known as Traditional Medicare)
joining a Medicare Advantage Plan or switching from one plan to another
joining or changing prescription drug plans
Health and prescription drug plans can change from year to year, so it’s important to review your coverage during Open Enrollment to ensure it meets your needs. Any changes made during Open Enrollment will go into effect on January 1, 2025.
ORIGINAL MEDICARE (“Traditional”)
Sarasota Memorial and First Physicians Group (FPG) always accepts all Original Medicare and Medicare/Medigap Traditional supplemental plans.
If you have already made your Medicare selections for the coming year, you can make additional changes through December 7, 2024.
Furry comfort for firefighters
IAN SWABY STAFF WRITER
At a time when the community is recovering from the impacts of three successive hurricanes, the Sarasota County Fire Department has someone lending a helping hand — and paw.
Firefighter Mark Maiure said at the time of each of the storms, the demands of the role were extensive.
“As soon as they released us at night, we were out running calls and didn’t come back,” he said.
However, since August, a partnership between the Sarasota County Fire Department and the Humane Society of Sarasota County has been
offering an additional way to uplift firefighters’ moods — a dose of pet therapy.
“(The dogs) are always showing up, and they’re give, give, give and nothing but a bundle of love,” said Paramedic Mary Kate Rea.
Hannah Howard, communication coordinator with the Humane Society, describes the organization as “Pretty much on call for (the fire department) all the time.”
PARTNERING FOR PETS
The partnership began when Jesse Schilling, acting battalion chief of safety and recruitment, reached out to the Humane Society.
The first station to be visited was Station 9 on Bee Ridge Road, which was located in an area heavily impacted by the flooding during Hurricane Debby.
“With the rise of first responder suicides, we need to start taking mental health a little bit more seriously, so any extra tool we can have to deal with that is a good thing,” said Maiure.
Additionally, Rea said that not only do firefighters have the task of responding to people on their worst day, but many personnel were also affected personally by the storms, with damage to their homes.
Schilling said due to the size of the department and its wide geographical layout, the humane society, which operates over 80 pet therapy teams in its HSSC Pet Therapy Program, has been well equipped to cover the full area.
Currently, it has traveled to all 25 stations, whose personnel total 540, and by Nov. 1 had clocked about 55
include hypoallergenic dogs and a cat named Marshmallow.
“With this collaboration, it makes a lot easier to spread that emotional toll on an animal, if you will, because these animals also take in a lot of our feelings, a lot of the interactions, and it wears on them,” Schilling said.
Key, through the fire station at 47 North Adams Drive beside St. Armands Circle, and Venice. Aid agreements with surrounding agencies mean that the department also assists other departments such as the Longboat Key Fire Rescue.
Volunteers stop by on an impromptu basis, while firefighters can also schedule time with the animals.
The partnership extends to fire departments with which SCFD shares a cooperative relationship, including the Englewood and North
“... How can you have a bad time when there’s a dog around?”
Hannah Howard, communication coordinator with the Humane Society
benefits the fire department, it has also allowed the Humane Society the opportunity to interact with the public, through open house events at the fire stations.
“We strive to provide resources for our community every day, but especially in the wake of disaster,” said Anna Gonce, executive director of the Humane Society, in a written statement to the Observer. “We have amazing Pet Therapy Volunteers who jumped at the chance to show support and express gratitude to our first responders. We’re so grateful for the opportunity to nurture an ongoing relationship with our area first responders.”
Rea noted there is plenty of research on the power of dogs to elevate moods.
“Instead of carrying that (stress) for the next 24 hours, maybe you have a dog at home, now you come back to the station, you get that de stressor immediately,” she said.
Maiure said since all firefighters have different ways of coping with their experiences, the program will offer another avenue for firefighters to attend to their mental health.
“Some people can handle it well; some people can’t,” he said. “Some people have other means of dealing with that, and some people don’t. So for the people that don’t, this program could be great ... Call a dog. How can you have a bad time when there’s a dog around?”
Currently, the county also offers an employee assistance program to connect staff with mental health resources.
“We’re just grateful we can provide a little bit of a break from their dayto-day and everything they have to respond to, and try and take their minds off things and put a smile on their face,” Howard said.
Courtesy image
A therapy pet greets a firefighter.
Ian Swaby
Sarasota County Fire Department paramedic Angel Wells meets Al and HSSC volunteer Mary Jones.
FIRST NEW CLINIC AT CEDARS
The clinic with Grand Slam Champion Ellis Ferreira was postponed due to Hurricanes Helene and Milton and will now be held Nov. 9 from 9:30 a.m. to noon at Cedars East. To RSVP, email BSmith@RVAFL.com or call Cedars Tennis Pro Shop at 941-444-4133.
final piece RVA and Cedars needed to propel them into the rebranding phase to try to take the resort worldwide.
APPROACHING A NEW ERA
Eagleton took over as tennis director at Cedars on Sept. 6 and quickly got to work securing the first clinic. When Eagleton arrived at Cedars, Halley said it brought a different energy to the staff.
“I’m honored to have John here, and that has reinvigorated the staff to make all of us want to be better,” Halley said.
Entering a new era
The staff at Cedars and new Tennis Director John Eagleton are hoping to lean on Eagleton’s expertise and tennis connections to build Cedars as a popular tennis resort.
CARTER WEINHOFER
Days after tennis pro John Eagleton joined as tennis director of Cedars Tennis Resort and Club, he had Grand Slam Champion Ellis Ferreira scheduled to host a clinic on Longboat Key.
It’s that kind of “star power” Sean Halley, vice president of Resort Vacation Accommodations and Cedars, said the resort needed as the final piece to its new vision. Halley said he and RVA staff have
prepared for about a year to turn Cedars into a destination on Longboat Key, a place that could draw tennis legends to benefit not only local players but also local businesses.
Although the clinic was postponed to Nov. 9 from Hurricanes Helene and Milton, Eagleton said Cedars is still excited about ushering in this next chapter for the resort. He hopes the clinic will provide a fun activity for residents and nearby tennis enthusiasts during a difficult time. Going forward, though, the team at Cedars wants to make the Long-
boat Key resort a hot spot for tennis players from all over.
“Our vision with Cedars was to not only go through rebranding but kind of a new business thought process of not just having this as a tennis resort ... but to actually turn this into a destination,” Halley said.
SCORING AN ACE DIRECTOR
Eagleton grew up in South Africa, where he started his career in team sports like soccer and rugby. It wasn’t until he was 8 years old that his father bought him his first tennis racquet for $1.
He grew to like tennis more than team sports because he was able to excel on his own accord.
By age 12, he was racking up championship titles, and he realized tennis was the sport for him. He became a star player at the University of Miami and a four-time All-American.
As he shifted more into coaching, Eagleton became a United States Professional Tennis Association Pro
and later co-founded SportsEdTV.
The company creates digital sports instruction content that features well-known sports players. Eagleton speaks proudly of SportsEdTV and how it reflects his style of coaching. The videos on SportsEdTV are meant to reach all levels of players, where people can learn at their own pace.
SportsEdTV will work closely with Cedars’ new events, working to promote the club to a broader audience and introduce a dedicated page on the SportsEdTV site to talk about Eagleton and the offerings at Cedars.
Over the years, Eagleton’s reputation in the tennis world allowed him to grow his connections, which is one of the things that Halley and Eagleton will lean on while growing Cedars as a bigger tennis destination.
John (Eagleton) is able to, at a moment’s notice, bring in the best players in the world, the best coaches in the world,” Halley said.
Halley said hiring Eagleton was the
THOSE WHO SERVED
James Ahstrom*
James Ahstrom*
Ross P. Alander
Ross P. Alander
John E. Anderson*
John E. Anderson*
Gary Aubry
Gary Aubry
Harris Barber*
Harris Barber*
Jack Bornhoeft*
Jack Bornhoeft*
Robert 0. Bridges*
Robert O. Bridges*
Bill Buckley
Bill Buckley
Bob Butler
Frank Buzan
Frank Buzan
Phil Cady*
Phil Cady*
Stew Cloud
Stu Cloud*
Duane E. Compton
Duane E. Compton
Bryan Cordell
Dan Crumpler
Peter Cutler*
Dan Crumpler
John Davis*
Peter Cutler
Jim Gerding
Chuck Fuller*
Mike Gardiner
Blue Grassfield*
Hugh Moss
Hugh Moss
Mary Tshudy Moss*
Halley credited RVA owner Larry Starr with allowing him and the staff at Cedars to run with the new vision. From top to bottom, everyone at RVA is committed to making Cedars a bigger destination. That rebranding not only has to do with the SportsEdTV partnership but also marketing Cedars as a destination focused on its members.
“The goal is to build this. We got to, first of all, take care of the members,” Eagleton said.
Eagleton, Halley and the staff at RVA want to introduce things like member packages for those who visit Cedars. The resort packages would be a “five-star treatment” for those who visit and feature trips to local attractions, restaurants and more.
Halley said he hopes these packages will benefit the guests and also help boost nearby local businesses to build community relations.
All of this — the SportsEdTV, destination packages and tennis pro clinics — create the vision for Cedars going forward as Eagleton and Halley attempt to make the resort stand out and build the tennis community. “I think Sarasota and Cedars is the biggest undeveloped gem I’ve seen for tennis,” Eagleton said. “We need to make this a tennis Mecca.”
Barbara Grimes
Jim Gerding
Jay Hale
Blue Grassfield*
Bob Hall*
Barbara Grimes
Bob Hammond
Jay Hale
John Himmelspach
Bob Hammond
Jim Huber*
John Himmelspach
Ralph Hunter*
Van Neely
Mary Tshudy Moss*
Van Neely
Harvey Noyes*
Harvey Noyes*
Wiley Osborne
Wiley Osborn
Joseph Palumbo
Joseph Palumbo
Lee Pokoik
Lee Pokoik
George Rauch
Rich Raymond
George Rauch
Rich Raymond
Merle Huntington*
Jim Huber* Ralph Hunter*
Nick Kovalakides
Merle Huntington *
Ed Krepela*
Frank Kveton*
Nick Kovalakides
Frank Kveton*
Kimball Leiser*
Kimball Leiser*
Gil Lucas*
Don Mateer
Winston ‘Cash’ Register*
David Reploeg
Winston ‘Cash’
Register
Andy Sawyer
David Reploeg*
George Scherer
Andy Sawyer
Hank Schreimann
George Scherer
Winifred Schroeder
Hank Schreimann
Jim Shepard
Schroeder
Bill McClure
John Davis*
Joe D’Eugenio
Bob Devore*
Joe D’Eugenio
Bob Dods
Bob DeVore*
Tom Dunham
Bob Dods
Bob Eldredge*
Tom Dunham
Elmer Featherston*
Bob Eldredge*
Fred Fillmore*
McCord Fraser
Elmer Featherston*
Chuck Fuller*
Fred Fillmore*
Mike Gardiner
McCord Fraser
Gil Lucas * Bill McClure
Jim McConnell*
Jim McConnell*
Dick Mclaughlin
Dick McLaughlin
Steve Miller
Steve Miller
Rich Miner*
Rich Miner*
Jim Mitchell
Jim Mitchell
Lynn Moore*
Lynn Moore*
Douglas Moppert*
Townsend Morey*
Douglas Moppert*
Phil Smith
Jim Shepard
Donald Swanson*
Phil Smith
John Vinson
Donald Swanson
Steve Walter
John Vinson
John David Wild*
Steve Walter
Gordon Willett
John David Wild
Art Wolcott*
Gordon Willett
Art Wolcott
* deceased
Carter Weinhofer
Tennis pro John Eagleton hopes to be a key part of the new phase at Cedars Tennis Resort and Club.
3464 MISTLETOE LANE
Immerse
YOUR NEIGHBORS
NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS
David Gregory Salon opened its doors to Design 2000 Salon after it suffered damage from Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER
Victoria Simko swears San -
dra LaRose’s hair dryer is the strongest.
“Sandy has a very strong blow dryer,” said Simko. “She loves to joke around and blow my hair and clients’ hair while she is next to me. We have loved joking about that.”
With Simko being a stylist at David Gregory Salon and LaRose at Design 2000 Salon, Longboaters would never have thought that these two would be working and joking together as competitors.
But after about a foot of water from Hurricane Helene flooded Design 2000, the LaRoses knew it would be some time before their salon would be back to normal.
Along with replacing drywall and flooring, they had to install new styling stations, chairs, a dryer for towels and a new front desk. They also purchased all new shampoo and styling treatments.
While this was being rebuilt, Design 2000 staff didn’t know where they would be able to take their clients.
“The first thing we did was call Greg and David,” said co-owner Irina LaRose. “We came over here to their salon and had a meeting in our dirty clothes because we’ve been packing everything up. They said they would be glad to rent a chair or two out until the busier months to help us get back on our feet.”
After Hurricane Helene, Design 2000 employees started temporarily working at David Gregory Salon on Oct. 17 while its Whitney Plaza location was rebuilt. Gregory Koss and
“It’s been fun to have them here.”
Gregory Koss, co-owner of David Gregory Salon
David Roy, owners of David Gregory Salon, didn’t hesitate to take them in because they knew they would do the same if the roles were reversed.
“It’s been fun to have them here,” said Koss. “We’re feeling so fortunate that we could come back to the island so quickly, so we had to help our neighbors. Since we are not in peak season, that makes it easier to accommodate them, but we’re making the best of what’s not an ideal situation.”
All stylists agreed this partnership made the salon lighter and busier during a slower time of year.
Irina designated her spot in front of the David Gregory salon with a fold-up table, and greeted everyone while they walked by as she signed in Design 2000 clients. While answering the phones and scheduling appointments, she ran back and forth from Whitney Plaza to grab all the supplies her stylists need.
Irina said it feels like living out of a suitcase since the salons use different products and treatments.
The four stylists from Design 2000 switch off every other day as they are mixed in with stylists from David Gregory.
The combination of employees loved making friends with new stylists across the island. Through fun moments such as sharing food and dressing up for Halloween, the camaraderie has helped make this challenging time less difficult.
“We totally understand that it could have very easily been us,” said Simko. “So we sympathize with them, and it has been a very social thing having them here. It is very refreshing to have friends who are stylists at different salons because that is usually not the case.”
Clients have also enjoyed seeing teamwork between the salons. Resident Karen Pashkow went to get her hair done by stylist Michael Nunes on Halloween and was pleasantly surprised by how busy the salon was.
Nunes said it has been interesting to see what clients attend each salon and how they can collaborate. Irina explained that Design 2000 clients are ecstatic to be able to visit their hair stylists and feel some normalcy.
As they plan to move back to their Whitney Plaza location on Nov. 12, Design 2000 staff is grateful for the fun memories and relationships they have built.
“This really is neighbors helping neighbors,” said Irina. “It has really been great because otherwise, our stylists would have no income coming in. Our customers are also just happy as pie that they have somewhere to get their hair done, so we are so grateful.”
Michael Nunes, Mary Bock, Robert Barney, Irina LaRose, Gregory Koss, Victoria Simko, David Roy and Sandra LaRose from David Gregory and Design 2000 salons.
Photos by Petra Rivera
Victoria Simko at David Gregory Salon.
Christ Church member Brent Piersma is always amazed at the number of languages he hears when volunteering at Our Daily Bread in Bradenton.
“Try telling a person who only speaks Creole they can’t have any more diapers,” said Piersma. “Even with the language barrier, volunteering at Our Daily Bread is something that really matters to all of us.”
His fellow congregant, Holly Braun, shared the most heartwarming aspect to her is connecting with the young moms who are looking for support. They will always express immense gratitude to have any food they can get to feed their children.
Sue Wertman has volunteered
alongside Piersma and Braun for seven years. Since then, she has organized an annual food drive to collect for the nonprofit. After Hurricane Helene and Milton, the number of people they serve has increased to about 180. With shelves low, Christ Church members decided to take this matter into their own hands. Volunteers from Christ Church of Longboat Key held its annual food drive on Oct. 30 to collect hurricane relief supplies for Our Daily Bread. Cars lined up in the church’s parking lot, popping their trunks open with different items for the nine volunteers to grab easily. People donated a variety of canned foods such as vegetables, tuna, chicken, meats, dry pasta, ramen noodles, peanut butter, jelly, coffee and condiments.
They also received diapers, toilet paper, toothpaste, toothbrushes and shampoo.
Wertman said she saw many new faces donating food this year. It warmed her heart to see their desire to help the community even if they didn’t attend Christ Church.
“We have already sent three full cars of items to Our Daily Bread,” said Wertman.
“When we ask them where they heard about the drive, a lot of them say they saw it in the paper or heard from friends. It is incredible to see even people not from the church donate because they want to help after how tragic it has been due to the hurricanes.”
PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER
Front Property
443F John Ringling Blvd. • Sarasota, FL 34236
Left: Holly Braun, Brent Piersma, Ann Quackenbush, Dennis Piermont and the Rev. Julia Piermont. Right: Sue Wertman, Mike McCullough, Michael Gardiner and Andy Sawyer at the Christ Church food drive.
Photos by Petra Rivera Mike McCullough at the Christ Church hurricane relief food drive.
Sue Wertman organized the hurricane relief food drive for Our Daily Bread.
Town of Longboat Key ATTENTION VOLUNTEERS
The Town of Longboat Key is accepting applications for appointment to the following boards:
Zoning Board of Adjustment
All applications must be submitted to the Office of the Town Clerk by 12:00 p.m. on November 22, 2024. All applicants must be registered voters of the Town of Longboat Key. Late applications will be held for one year for any future board or committee vacancies that may arise.
All members of the Zoning Board of Adjustment are required to file a financial disclosure form within 30 days after appointment and annually thereafter for the duration of the appointment as required by Florida Statutes Chapter 112.
The Town Commission may schedule a Meet and Greet with applicants at a later date. Please call the Office of the Town Clerk at 941-316-1999 to request an application or questions. Applications are also available on line at: www.longboatkey.org. Completed applications may be submitted to:
Town of Longboat Key – Office of the Town Clerk 501 Bay Isles Road Longboat Key FL 34228
Stephanie Garcia, Deputy Town Clerk I
Published: 11-07-2024, 11-14-2024
BACK TO SCHOOL
This November, students can start the fall season with a relaxing new series that promotes holistic healing.
PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER
School is back in session on Longboat Key.
As of Nov. 4, the Education Center at Temple Beth Israel will start its fall semester with a new series, “Holistic Health and Wellness.”
Education Center Program Manager Susan Goldfarb thought it would be the perfect way to welcome back Longboaters after weeks of stress due to the hurricane season.
“People, right now, need stimulation,” said Goldfarb. “After what we have been through, people need relaxation and healing. This new series will be the relaxing stimulation they need to get ready for the season.”
The series will include four expert lectures beginning on Nov. 14. The first presentation will discuss how feng shui promotes balance and healthy energy throughout your home and life. Students can attend a sound bath the following week to see how it improves focus, boosts energy levels and reduces stress.
The next presentation, “The Unconscious — Where All Great Solutions Are Located,” will take students through clinical hypnotism and how to use it to better their lives. The last lecture will introduce different healing arts from Japan, such as energy healing and bodywork.
Staying in tune with current events, the winter semester starts with a two-part series called “Hot Topics.” Anne Golden will lead a civil discussion about the 2024 election season as a way for people to respectfully share their views.
Goldfarb is also excited about the Education Center’s first play reading starring the Temple’s very own Rabbi Stephen Sniderman. Betty Mohr created and directed “Einstein’s Compass,” following the story of Albert Einstein since childhood. Along with his accomplishments in science, the reading will take the audience through hard times in Einstein’s life, like how Germany’s antisemitism transformed his view of his Jewish heritage.
For other fall classes, perennial favorites such as yoga, qigong and painting will return. Dissect classic cinema with film guru Gus Mollasis as he leads enticing discussions on “hidden gem” films. Students can also start their new favorite hobbies by learning the tricks of mahjong, canasta and bridge.
In Nordic Walking, Sam DiGiammarino will teach how walking with Nordic walking poles activates nearly 90% of muscles in the human body. While improving balance and reducing the strain on your bones, it is also a great program to make friends on fun walks around Longboat.
Similarly, discover “The Nature of Longboat Key” on nature walks with longtime lecturer at the Education Center, Elliot Prout. According to Goldfarb, Prout plans to explore how the island’s nature was affected after Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Goldfarb is most excited for the winter season, which is when most of her snowbird students will be returning due to the impact of the hurricanes.
Along with a variety of new programs, people can enjoy jazz happy hours every week at Wine Down Wednesday starting in January. The Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe is also coming back to perform for the most attended event at the Education Center.
Goldfarb prides herself on the amount of new programs she adds each semester. She said it is important to keep the longtime regulars on their toes.
“I have such a dedicated group of people that have been coming forever,” said Goldfarb. “So, there is this pressure to change everything. They don’t want to look at the same stuff every year. They want new stuff. And frankly, it is my passion to find those new programs.”
Petra Rivera
Susan Goldfarb, program manager at the Education Center at Temple Beth Israel.
Tracey Stetler
Steven Moore
Patrick DiPinto
Nicholle DiPinto McKiernan
John Schafer
Janette Schafer
Rene DiPinto
Storm’s fury not all bad
Hurricanes can play an important role in shaping healthy, albeit dramatically changed, ecosystems.
Hurricane Milton significantly impacted Myakka River State Park, downing and damaging trees. With water levels in the park already high since Hurricane Debby, Myakka’s floodplain marshes overflowed, flooding most roads in the park. Thankfully, overall damage was substantially less than resulted from Hurricane Ian. Infrastructure impact to the park, which is minimally developed by design, was relatively minor.
Hurricanes bring with them a fury of strong wind, drenching rain and even tornadoes. By rapidly driving natural ecological processes such as erosion, debris deposition and vegetational succession, they play an important role in shaping healthy, albeit dramatically changed, ecosystems.
When trees are downed, a hammock’s canopy opens, allowing different plants to grow due to increased sunlight. This process supports new growth as well as biodiversity.
Heavy rainfall, as hurricanes travel inland, increases the levels of water in streams, rivers and floodplains. As these waters flow through a watershed, they bring with them a mixture of freshwater, organic matter, nutrients and sediments. Scientists have found that hurricane-driven redistribution of organic matter in soils provides nutrients needed for natural communities to bounce back from severe storm impacts. By flushing out floodplains, water helps create new plant and wildlife habitats.
Scientists have long predicted that climate change would increase the frequency of extreme rainfall events. In a warmer world, there is simply more moisture in the air above water and land. Natural com-
STILL CLOSED
Myakka River State Park is closed to the public while recovery efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton continue. For updates, please visit FloridaStateParks.org/Parks-And-Trails/ Myakka-River-State-Park.
munities, therefore, have less time to recover between storms, with major implications for ecosystem stability. Moreover, damaged ecosystems don’t bounce back as quickly as they used to because their resilience has been degraded, especially by human development. With development rapidly encroaching on Myakka River State Park, there is a rising threat of degraded ecosystems and water quality from floodwaters contaminated by pollutants, such as fertilizer, pesticides, oil and bacteria. To protect the park and the river, maintaining adequate buffers from existing and potential development is of utmost importance.
Friends of Myakka River exists to support Myakka River State Park and the Wild and Scenic Myakka River. Together, they are protecting and sharing Myakka’s Magic, to the benefit of future generations. Follow at @FriendsOfMyakkaRiver.
Miri Hardy
Though Myakka’s ecosystems adapted to seasonal flooding, increased threats of pollutant runoff from outside the park is concerning.
Condo residents come to employees’ aid
After 68 employees applied for hurricane relief, residents pitched in to support them as a way to show their appreciation for everything they do.
PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER
For the first time since living at Plymouth Harbor Retirement Community, resident Marie Belcher evacuated with other residents and staff during Hurricane Helene.
As an artist, Belcher was saddened to hear the art room on the ground floor was totaled after the storm.
Thinking that her most recent painting was gone with it, an employee who stayed at Plymouth Harbor during the hurricane was able to cure her disappointment.
While exploring the campus that was flooded with 4 feet of water, the employee opened the door to the art room and saw Belcher’s half-finished painting of a bird floating by. Belcher was taken by surprise when the staff member was thoughtful enough to grab it and return it to her safely.
“That is who our team members are,” said Belcher. “We have an unbelievably positive relationship with them because they care for us. It is so important that we support them.”
Experiences such as Belcher’s had residents at Plymouth Harbor grateful for its hardworking and attentive staff.
When CEO Jeff Weatherhead reached out after getting 68 applications to the Employee Hardship Fund due to the hurricanes, residents didn’t hesitate to donate: 130 resident donors contributed $338,000 to show their appreciation.
“Charity begins at home,” said resident Tom Landers. “For most of us, this is our last home, and our staff is like family. So we, the community, have to take care of family.”
In the seven years of living in Sarasota, Hurricane Milton was the first time the weather affected receptionist Helen Dailey’s livelihood.
The 120 mph winds of Hurricane
Milton took her roof and carport. A couple of weeks later, she continues to find structural damage in her house, such as the doors of her manufactured home starting to drag, and tarps also now hang over her two front rooms where the roof used to be.
Dailey had no choice but to turn to Plymouth Harbor for help.
“Plymouth Harbor really came through,” said Dailey. “This is the best place I’ve ever worked. The residents do care for their employees.”
HR recruiter Taylor Ormrod spent most of her workday urging staff like Dailey to apply for the fund after hearing their heartbreaking stories. She would fill out forms for them even if they were too humble to ask for help.
Although she was constantly organizing others to get relief, Ormrod didn’t think about herself.
During Milton, she had to be rescued by a FEMA lifeboat after evacuating to intense flooding. When she got back to Sarasota, the storm had damaged the fence of her new home, along with losing her shed and all appliances in her backyard.
When Vice President of Team Member Relations Anthony Baffo encouraged to apply to the fund herself, Ormrod was taken aback. He said it was essential to provide relief for all employees, even if they had been there for a few months like Ormrod.
Baffo was astounded at the outpouring of support from residents. He said it was heartwarming to see the bond the residents have with the staff.
“Over $300,000 is a lot of money,” said Baffo. “Here is a group of residents that have equaled or surpassed what a lot of big community foundations have done. The people here at Plymouth Harbor work hard to take care of the residents. It is amazing that they stepped in to take care of the staff as well.”
Named one of Forbes’ Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
If you would like to learn more about our team please visit our website or: Join us at our office Mondays at 9:30am for an Outlook on the Market and latest thinking from the Morgan Stanley Global Investment Committee. Please RSVP to Amanda Lewis by calling 941-364-3549 or email Amanda.R.Lewis@morganstanley.com.
Susan Tomlinson Wilson
Senior Vice President, Wealth Management
Family Wealth Advisor
Alternative Investments Director
Financial Advisor
Thomas Bardwell, CFP®
Senior Vice President, Wealth Management
Senior Porfolio Management Director
Family Wealth Advisor
Financial Advisor
T. Michael Osterman
Senior Vice President, Wealth Management
Financial Planning Specialist
Financial Advisor
Rylan K. Lanham
Financial Advisor
Financial Planning Specialist
Susan A. Knight
Sr. Registered Associate
Financial Planning Specialist
Adrienne Lambers
Sr. Registered Client Associate
Amanda Lewis
Client Service Associate
2 North Tamiami Trail, Ste 1100 Sarasota, FL 34236
Left to Right: Rylan Lanham, Adrienne Lambers, Mike Osterman, Tom Bardwell, Susan Wilson, Susan Knight, Amanda Lewis
Artist Marie Belcher thought she lost her painting during Hurricane Helene, but a Plymouth Harbor employee found the painting during the storm and was able to return it to Belcher.
Plymouth Harbor employees, back: Taylor Ormrod, Helen Dailey and Denys Semeniuk. Plymouth Harbor residents, front: Kathy Hendricks, Tom Landers and Marie Belcher.
Photos by Petra Rivera
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TURKISH DELIGHT: Medge and Michael Jaspan in Kusadasi, Turkey, with a copy of the Longboat Observer.
$10,000,000
$1,540,000
Bay Isles home tops week’s
ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR
in Bay Isles tops all transactions in this week’s real
John and Deborah Petchul, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their
at 540 Harbor Point Road to Donald Morris Wimbish Jr. and Elechia Hilton Wimbish, of Granite Falls, North Carolina, for $5 mil-
Built in 2000, it has
BIRD KEY
Christopher and Faye Nantista sold their home at 473 Partridge Circle to Richard and Deborah Smilow, of Westport, Connecticut, for $4,175,000. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and 3,230 square feet of living area.
SANCTUARY AT LONGBOAT KEY
CLUB
Thomas and Rhonda Stoughton, trustees, of Carmel, Indiana, sold the Unit C-507 condominium at 535 Sanctuary Drive to Judith DavisFagan, trustee, of Longboat Key, for $2,593,500. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,580 square feet of living area. It sold for $1,495,000 in 2016.
GRAND BAY
Joan and Howard Tykot, of E. Windsor, New Jersey, sold their Unit 152 condominium at 3060 Grand Bay Blvd. to Stephen and Judy Levine, of W. Orange, New Jersey, for $1.2 million. Built in 1994, it has three bedrooms, three-anda-half baths and 2,143 square feet of living area. It sold for $565,000 in 1999.
BEACHPLACE
Petro Property LTD sold the Unit 402 condominium at 1125 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Gerson and Donna Fernandes, of Bradenton, for $1.11 million. Built in 1979, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,392 square feet of living area. It sold for $535,000 in 2009.
PORTOBELLO Raymond and Mimi Hurd, trustees, sold the Unit A405 condominium at 3235 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Ann Allen Cross and Matthew Weldon Cross, of San Antonio, for $1.1 million. Built in 1975, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,260 square feet of living area. It sold for $360,000 in 2011.
LONGBOAT HARBOUR
Shawn Michael White and Chad Arthur White, of Dayton, Ohio, sold their Unit 208 condominium at 4390 Exeter Drive to Eric and Erica Bendickson, of Green Bay, Wisconsin, for $799,000. Built in 1970, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,168 square feet of living area. It sold for $425,000 in 2022.
THE PRIVATEER
Richard Spriggle, of Lakewood Ranch, sold his Unit 403 condominium at 1000 Longboat Club Road to Helaine Oxman Lasky, of Atlanta, for $740,000. Built in 1972, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,409 square feet of living area. It sold for $387,500 in 2015.
Photos courtesy of Joseph Cinque
John and Deborah Petchul, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their home at 540 Harbor Point Road to Donald Morris Wimbish Jr. and Elechia Hilton Wimbish, of Granite Falls, North Carolina, for $5 million.
Thnks Give
As our neighbors recover from hurricane damage — and living costs continue to increase, even more help is needed.
You can turn empty plates into ThankFULL Tummies.
Give today at allfaithsfoodbank.org 941.379.6333
YOUR CALENDAR
MONDAY, NOV. 11 ‘COPING WITH OUR TIMES’ SUPPORT GROUP
1-2:30 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. The Paradise Center provides a space for people to share their hardships after being affected by two hurricanes. Retired therapist Scott Anstadt will discussion groups on all storm-related topics. Call 383-6493.
MONDAY, NOV. 14
GO WITH THE FLOW-FIND HARMONY AND BALANCE WITH FENG SHUI
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Education Center at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. Join Laurie Pawli, certified Feng Shui instructor, who will help you transform any space with simple adjustments and innovative tips to promote balance and healthy energy flow in your home and in your life. Cost is $20 for members; $25 for nonmembers. Call 383-8222 or email Admin@TBIEducationCenter. org.
RECURRING EVENTS
MONDAYS STRETCH AND STRENGTHEN
From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. This class is mostly seated and great for all fitness levels. Focus is on strength training and flexibility for balance. Suzy Brenner leads the class. Fee is $15; free for members. Walk-ins welcome. Call 383-6493.
MIXED BEGINNERS BRIDGE
From 1-2:30 p.m. at The Education Center at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. Professional bridge player and teacher Larry Auerbach will cover the basic mechanics and fundamentals of the game, combining players who have some knowledge of the game and new players. Cost is $85 for members; $95 for nonmembers. Call 383-8222 or email Admin@TBIEducationCenter. org.
TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS PILATES SCULPT
SARASOTA MEMORIAL PRESENTS
ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE & RELATED DEMENTIAS
As our bodies age, so do our brains. Join us for this special lecture event and learn to identify the signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia, to distinguish between normal aging and dementia-related memory loss, and how to communicate effectively with those living with these conditions. A brief Q&A will follow the presentation.
Wednesday, Nov. 20th
4:30 - 5:30pm
Danielle Valery, BS, CDPAlzheimer’s Disease & Related Dementias: An Overview of Cognitive Changes
SMH-SARASOTA
Sarasota Memorial Hospital Auditorium - First Floor 1700 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34239
From 9-9:50 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Pilates Sculpt is a combination class mixing traditional Pilates exercises into a fun, challenging workout to upbeat music. It will make you sweat, encourage your body to burn calories, and make you stronger and more flexible. This class is for all levels. Cost is $15; free for members. Walkins welcome. Call 383-6493.
TUESDAYS AND FRIDAYS LONGBOAT LIBRARY
From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesday and Friday. 555 Bay Isles Road. Call 3832011.
TUESDAYS AT THE MOVIES
From 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at The Education Center at Temple Beth Is-
BEST BET
NOV. 9-10
35TH ANNUAL ST. ARMANDS CIRCLE ART FESTIVAL
From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in St. Armands Circle, 1 St. Armands Circle. 200 artists will come together to reopen St. Armands Circle after the recent hurricanes. Enjoy a variety of art work handmade in America from unique sculptures to paintings, one-of-a-kind jewels, photography and ceramics. Visit ArtFestival.com for more information.
rael, 567 Bay Isles Road. Enjoy quality assigned films at local theaters and come to class to discuss them with popular film maven and critic Gus Mollasis. Films are assigned a week before class discussion. Package of six is $95 for members; $105 for nonmembers; pay as you go is $17 per class. Call 383-8222 or email Admin@TBIEducationCenter. org.
WEDNESDAYS MIXED LEVELS YOGA
From 9-10 a.m. at The Education Center at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. These alignmentbased classes, led by certified yoga teacher Harriet Roberts, are carefully crafted to offer both challenges and modifications for all ages and levels. Improve balance, strength, and flexibility and reduce physical pain. Engage your body, heart, and mind with breathwork and meditation. Package of six is $75 for members; $85 for nonmembers; pay as you go is $15 per class. Call 383-8222 or email Admin@TBIEducationCenter.org.
WATERCOLOR, ACRYLICS, PASTELS, OILS
From 9-11:30 a.m. at The Education Center at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. Learn to paint like the masters in your medium of choice with simple techniques offered by award-winning artist Renee DiNapoli. Easy subjects and materials available. Seasoned artists or novices welcome. Personal instruction and demonstrations provided. Package of four, is $175 for members; $185 for nonmembers. Call 383-8222 or email Admin@ TBIEducationCenter.org.
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