Reed Concierge Medical Group is celebrating its reopening and expansion this week, and the public is invited to join the festivities.
The group was previously located in the Tidewell building on Bay Isles, and it recently moved to the Shoppes of Bay Isles complex at 544 Bay Isles Road. From 4-6:30 p.m. on Jan. 22, enjoy music, light bites and bubbly at the ribboncutting ceremony for the newly relocated and expanded Reed Concierge Medical Group and Longboat Key Fitness.
Dr. James Reed and Petar Sibinkic are hosting the celebration.
The Sarasota Style officially opens
The newest addition to St. Armands Circle, a lifestyle and clothing brand, opened last week.
The Sarasota Style, after opening informally earlier this month, held ribbon-cuttings with the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce on Jan. 14 and the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce on Jan. 16.
The store celebrates everything Sarasota with its branding on clothing, water bottles, beach towels and more.
Co-owner Malia Price said she was glad to officially welcome guests and has been delighted with the response, especially to their bamboofabric warmer clothing.
The shop is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily at 410 St. Armands Circle. Visit SarasotaStyle.com. S.T.
Dana Kampa
Dana Kampa
Alida deJongh and Tynisha Hodo enjoy anniversary festivities at Plymouth Harbor of Sarasota Bay. The
tions to honor its 60 years in business.
Brista Commons, near the entrance to Buttonwood Harbour, is
sales and decor outlets.
WEEK OF JAN. 22, 2026
BY THE NUMBERS
n
“We’re blessed to be on a Key where people really try to see what can happen as opposed to what can’t happen.”
Longboat North co-Chair Maureen Merrigan Read more on page 3A
Beach renourishment starts on Lido Key
Lido Key beach’s shoreline renourishment project is underway.
Hundreds of thousands of cubic yards of sand will be dredged from New Pass and placed on the beach as part of the project, much needed after recent hurricanes and storms have caused shoreline degradation to the popular beach just south of Longboat Key.
“Since the last renourishment in 2021, the city has prioritized this critical infrastructure project as a strategic investment in coastal resilience, public safety
and natural resource preservation,” a city of Sarasota webpage detailing the project describes.
The renourishment will fill the southern half of Lido Key, targeting areas that have seen up to 90 feet of shoreline degradation, according to the city.
Sand for the project, about 311,000 cubic yards of it, will be dredged from New Pass in five phases. That dredging began Monday and will continue until about March 26.
“Sand will be conveyed to Lido Beach using floating, submerged, and shore (seaward/western
route) pipelines placed on Lido Beach from north to south,” the project website describes.
Portions of the beach will close during the renourishment, and contractors will stage in the parking lot south of the pavilion, which will remain open.
The renourishment is part of a 50-year agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers where renourishments are scheduled every five years.
After the renourishment and a summer break, dune construction will resume in the fall and continue through early 2027.
Buttonwood Harbour meeting scheduled
The town of Longboat Key will host a public meeting Feb. 5, to discuss potential improvements to the Buttonwood Harbour neighborhood.
The town hired planning and designing consultants Kimley-Horn to perform stormwater drainage assessments for the neighborhood. That consulting firm, along with town staff, will be on hand at the meeting, which begins at 5 p.m. at the Bayfront Park Recreation Center. Buttonwood Harbour, a neighborhood developed in the 1960s, is prone to flooding. Kimley-Horn was tasked with reviewing stormwater infrastructure, elevation and surveying data and designing potential improvements, which may include road reconstructions.
The public meeting will include a presentation beginning at 5:10 p.m. and a question-and-answer segment following.
Smart water meters now in full operation
Longboat Key’s installation of smart water meters is complete, and residents are now able to monitor their daily water usage using an online tool.
Dubbed “Neptune My360,” the online platform uses a cellular signal to read the water meter and display daily usage in “easy-to-understand charts and graphs,” according to a news release from the town of Longboat Key.
“The town’s new smart water meters provide hourly usage updates to help detect leaks, conserve water, and avoid high water bills,” the release states.
Neptune My360 also allows users to set water usage thresholds and sends real-time alerts for potential leaks or unusual activity.
To access the tool, residents should go to LongboatKey.My360app. com and create an account. While the URL has the word “app” in it, the tool is not a phone application, only a website.
To sign up, residents will need their utility account number, address and full name.
Chapel now the center of attention
Pat Lundy sits on her beachfront lanai overlooking the Gulf, using a palette knife to paint a bouquet of white hydrangeas.
Trying to get the color just right, she scoops up a sliver of green and melds it with the white.
She never thought she’d be a painter, but when she took a class at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens about 20 years ago, a new world opened to her.
“It’s so relaxing,” she said. “I think it’s good therapy for people.”
She fell in love with painting and found a community of artists at the now-defunct Longboat Key Center for the Arts in the Village. Painting together builds community and allows artists to share ideas, she said. “You learn from one another.”
The arts center closed in 2017, and Lundy’s friends have since come up with their own solutions for where to meet and paint together.
“We meet in this lady’s garage,” Lundy said. “She sets up these tables and has to move her cars out, so it’s not ideal.”
But there’s potentially good news for creatives and others on the north end who hope for a place to gather. After years searching for a suitable location for a north-end community center, a potential space is in the crosshairs of Manatee County, the town and Longboat North (a group of condo and homeowner associations on the north end of the island who have been advocating for a new community gathering space).
Longboat Island Chapel, which recently became home to the Longboat Key Paradise Center for Healthy Living, is being discussed as hosting space that can serve as a community center.
The Paradise Center already offers yoga, tai chi, bingo and other events Monday through Friday, and Longboat North co-Chair Maureen Merrigan said the church and the nonprofit are open to the possibility of using the space as a north-end community center.
“The Paradise Center was open to expanding their offerings and helping to manage it, and the town staff worked with the county, and the county embraced the idea and said they were committed to helping us in the short term,” Merrigan said.
“So our understanding is they are all working together with a good draft interlocal agreement.”
Finding potential space has been a long-term effort with many potential landing spots identified but never finalized. But now, Merrigan said, it seems as if the stars are aligned.
“We’re blessed to be on a Key where people really try to see what can happen as opposed to what can’t happen,” Merrigan said.
Longboat North created a commit-
tee, the North End Space Team, with the one goal of finding and securing space for a community center on the north end, and Manatee County commissioners have signaled support for it. The chapel and Paradise Center declined to comment given that nothing has been decided.
WISH LIST
Merrigan said residents on the north end of the island have a desire for classes, recreation space and meeting space. Art classes are also on the wish list.
“There’s a number of communities on the north end of the Key that don’t have clubhouse facilities, so for them to do a small board meeting of eight people or a large social event of 20-100 people, it becomes very weather-dependent and whose house is open and doesn’t have guests in it. So I think one would be that use,” Merrigan said. “The second use would be to continue to expand what the Paradise Center does from a recreation standpoint.
They’d been geared in the past toward an older clientele. The north end of the key, I think, has a younger demographic, and so I think opening some of these rec classes and doing things that meet those needs would be beneficial.”
Manatee County Commissioner Tal Siddique said potential uses for the space are still being ironed out.
“Once conversations with our staff, Longboat Key staff, chapel and the residents continue, I think we’ll get a better picture of what we can actually accommodate,” he said.
The county is considering investing to improve the space. The price would be less than if a community center were built from scratch.
Using existing space is also a more timely solution.
“The reality is a long-term buildout, buying land on Longboat Key and building it out, is a 10-year process,” Merrigan said. “I was joking that half of us will be dead by the
time that’s done.”
While nothing is official, Siddique said he thinks using Longboat Island Chapel as a county community center “has a high likelihood of moving forward.”
LOOMING QUESTIONS
The questions remaining are what will be offered at the center, who would be responsible for running the community center and what investments need to be made.
“It’s likely to be hundreds of thousands of dollars, potentially,” Siddique said. “Originally, we were talking about a few million dollars for a property purchase. We’re not going to make that, so I’m not exactly sure what staff will come up with, but I suspect it would ideally be under $200,000 or $150,000.”
Specifics would be revealed in an interlocal agreement, on which the county and town commissions would both have to agree.
“I believe it’s a two- or three-year agreement we are talking about, but time will tell what it actually looks like,” Siddique said. “I think at least two years would be best because it would offer some level of stability for that area.”
Another unknown is whether the partnership would be permanent. That could become clearer when and if the partnership moves forward. Merrigan and Siddique both said the chapel could become a long-term home for the community center if it’s a success.
“I think those are all wonderful things we’ll figure out in terms of partnerships over the next two to three years, including what the chapel can accommodate or not,” Merrigan said. “We just have a fabulous opportunity ahead of us to really experiment, see what works, what kind of classes work, what the community embraces, what the needs are and who can all work together.”
MANY STOPS ALONG THE WAY
Finding space for a north-end community center has been a years-long effort with many stops along the way.
1 Space in Whitney Beach Plaza was the closest to becoming a reality, with Manatee County leasing 6,100 square feet for about $11,000 a month. A sign marking the space as the “LBK North Learning Center” was even put up on the commercial plaza’s sign. But when the hurricanes hit in 2024, the county terminated its lease in the space. Manatee County Commissioner Tal Siddique said one of the reasons the county exited the lease was because it would prefer to own property if it was going to invest a substantial amount. The search for another space began.
2A 1,300square-foot cottage that once sat on the former site of the Longboat Key Center for the Arts looked like a good fit, and Manatee County began talks with Chiles Group to purchase the property to the north of Whitney Plaza. Manatee County spokesperson Bill Logan said the selling price and the county’s appraisal of the property were too far apart to continue talks.
3 In October 2025, the county was considering off-island possibilities. Tingley Library on Bradenton Beach was looked at briefly, but Longboat North leaders much preferred a space on Longboat Key as a gathering space.
4 Now, the county and town have begun discussions with Longboat Island Chapel and the Paradise Center as a place to host north-end residents. The amount of investment needed by the county and what programs are offered are in discussion. Siddique said if an interlocal agreement between the town and county is reached, programs could begin to be offered either later this year or early 2027.
S.T. CARDINAL STAFF WRITER
Buccaneer plans take aim at office building
Harbour Square slated for demolition to make way for signature restaurant.
he Harbour Square office building, built in 1984, looks to have an expiration date of 2026.
The 1905 Family of Restaurants — the group behind the Columbia Restaurant, Cha Cha Coconuts, Ulele and Casa Santo Stefano — is planning to demolish the office building as it prepares to build the company’s newest concept: the Buccaneer Restaurant. Vice President of Marketing Jeff Houck said demolition-permit paperwork is being prepared.
“We had explored repairs to keep the building and use it for project, but the structure had more needs than were possible to repair,” Houck said. “We started clearing the site of trees and shrubs in recent weeks. Our last tenant is out of the building.”
The one-story elevated office building alongside Sarasota Bay was purchased for $4 million in 2017. The office building has boat slips, which could serve customers of the restau-
rant, planned next door at 4120 Gulf of Mexico Drive.
The 4120 Gulf of Mexico Drive parcel was home to Pattigeorge’s Restaurant, a popular spot for locals, that stayed in business for 43 years. The restaurant was bought by Murf and Tommy Klauber in 1997 from founders Patti and George Neofotis. It was demolished in 2018.
The Buccaneer, however, will pay homage to another long-gone Longboat icon, the Buccaneer Inn, which was opened by Herb Field in 1957 and had an elaborate pirate theme, complete with dubloon-based pricing and a peg-legged pirate greeting patrons. It closed in 2001.
The resurrected Buccaneer is a project led by Richard Gonzmart, fourth-generation caretaker of the 1905 Family of Restaurants. He said in 2017 that the Buccaneer Inn was his parents’ favorite restaurant, besides the Columbia, and that he has fond memories of the restaurant growing up. He said he wanted the eatery to be “an architectural gem” that pays homage to the Buccaneer. What that gem will look like is still in the works, Houck said.
“Still no architectural plans for the site yet,” he said. “Just getting it ready for whenever we do.”
S.T. Cardinal
The Harbour Square office building at 4134 Gulf of Mexico Drive may soon be demolished. The 1905 Family of Restaurants Vice President of Marketing Jeff Houck said the company plans to file for a demolition permit soon.
CLEAN UP
Unkempt lots draw Code
Enforcement attention.
fter a year of post-hurricane leniency in 2025, Longboat Key Code Enforcement is beginning to crack down on lots with overgrown vegetation.
Town Manager Howard Tipton told commissioners recently that the town had taken a less-strict approach to lot maintenance issues in the aftermath of Helene and Milton in 2024.
“Not that we need to be reminded, but we had a pretty significant storm impact in 2024, and so we have been lenient in working with property owners who have gone through some difficult times and in the process of tearing down or elevating or whatever they’re doing to their property,” Tipton said. “So there has been a little more leniency than you would typically see, but it’s been over a year now. The time is right.”
Maureen Merrigan, a co-chair of the Longboat Key North residents’ group and a former town commissioner, said she had noticed lots near
her North Shore Road home becoming overgrown and littered. That led to her reaching out to town leaders with her concerns. Commissioner Debra Williams brought up the issue at the Jan. 12 commission meeting.
“A couple days ago I had the opportunity to do a little drive around the north end, Longbeach, the Village, North Shore Drive and there’s a lot of empty lots there. A lot of them gone through redevelopment, and some of them look like they’re just kind of neglected,” Williams said. “I was just wondering if we could get Code Enforcement out there and just enforce what needs to be done. Obviously, some of them are currently in transition, but I think a lot of them are just sitting the way they are with a lot of landscape debris on them, silt fences that have seen better days. I’m just wondering if we could get Code Enforcement out there and get the stuff cleaned up.”
A commercial lot near Whitney Beach Plaza, also on the north end, has gotten some attention from town leaders as well. At-Large Commissioner BJ Bishop said she had heard
concerns from Whitney Beach Plaza business operators regarding the state of the lot, which she said had 2-foot-tall grass growing on it.
Assistant Town Manager Isaac Brownman said Code Enforcement was aware of the issue and were working with the property owners to bring the lot into compliance.
When asked why the town did not simply fine the property owner, Brownman said that option is still possible but signaled that working amenably with the property owner is preferable.
That strategy mirrors how the town generally approaches code violations, Planning and Zoning Director Allen Parsons said.
“The overall goal of code enforcement is compliance with whatever the town code requirement is. In some cases, the property owner may not be aware that there is a certain requirement, so we start first with awareness and education,” he said. “We’re not after fining people. We don’t start with that.”
S.T. Cardinal
A vacant lot on North Shore Road has some weed growth and is littered with debris from a fallen fence.
WHAT TOWN CODE SAYS
In March 2023, the town established new property maintenance standards (town code Chapter 104) that follow the International Property Maintenance Code, with locally specific amendments added. The IPMC regulates the height of weeds or plant growth, allowing municipalities to define what that height is: for Longboat Key, that’s 12 inches, according to a page on the town’s website.
Other relevant regulations include town code Chapter 104.04.A.1, which states that “Premises shall be maintained free from overgrowth of trees and shrubs which interfere with vehicular traffic or boat navigation, create a hazard to vehicular traffic or boat navigation, or which tend to create a nuisance or other unsightly condition.”
Unsightly condition being a subjective term means the town’s code enforcement department may make decisions on a case-to-case basis.
Chapter 95, section 16 of town code describes unlawful deposits, saying it is unlawful for “any person to place or deposit garbage, garden trash, brush, or rubbish on the premises of another, whether the premises are improved or vacant.”
Town code 95.25 also prohibits the accumulation of “junk,” which is defined specifically as wrecked or abandoned cars; abandoned mattresses, beds or bed frames; rags; abandoned iceboxes, refrigerators or stoves; and obsolescent machinery or metal objects. Accumulation of “junk” within town limits is unlawful and can lead to fines.
Planning and Zoning Director Allen Parsons said Code Enforcement usually follows a process for violations, which start with a courtesy contact, then a notice of violation. After that, the issue could either head to a special magistrate hearing or a citation. If the issue still persists, the last resort is to place a lien on the property, which imposes a fine that can accumulate on a daily basis. Parsons said property owners are given the opportunity to come into code compliance in between each of these steps.
Brista in business
Longboat Key’s newest commercial complex off to a strong start.
oot traffic is steady, and public sentiment seems to be good so far at Brista Commons, Longboat Key’s first new commercial complex in years.
Owner Mark Ursini said he’s looking forward to 2026.
“I’ve been very pleased with the positive comments. We’ve been well received,” he said. “All the businesses seem to be thriving. Especially after the new year, all the tenants have seen more people coming in.”
All but one tenant is open at 3120 Gulf of Mexico Drive. ClearView Windows and Doors was wrapping up its final preparations late last week, aiming to be ready by the complex’s formal grand opening.
The doors are open, for the most part, and dollars are rolling in. Ursini, a custom homebuilder, said he’s already working with clients on two new builds: one in Country Club Shores and another on Gulf of Mexico Drive. Couch LBK, the anchor tenant of the complex, is working to provide interior decoration for a lobby at a condominium association on the island. The drastic renovation project is business for more than just Couch, but its neighbors, Your Flooring Warehouse.
“We’ll be doing the flooring, paint, chandeliers, furniture, even picking out the colors of the walls,” Couch LBK co-owner Noel Ladd said. “They came in looking for a one-stop shop and we said ‘we can do it.’ Now that we are in this location with a flooring business next to us and Mark’s expertise on all things home building, it’s a great situation.”
Karen Rothstein, who visits Longboat Key from Michigan in weeklong stints throughout the year, was perusing the newly opened Couch LBK showroom on Wednesday afternoon with her friend, Judy Berman.
Ken Rushing, interior designer and co-owner of Couch, showed the two a roll of fabric and leather
samples, explaining what they saw in the 5,000-square-foot showroom was just a sliver of the customizable furniture options. A touchscreen monitor can bring up the entire catalog of options for customers. Ladd said they take pride in offering American-made products, and those on display are meant to inspire style choices rather than displaying the business’ complete offerings.
Rothstein enjoyed browsing a selection of furniture without having to drive off the island.
“It’s very unique, and I was very excited when I read what it was going to be,” she said. “I wish there were more places like this on Longboat Key.”
Next door to Couch is Your Flooring Warehouse, a 1,200-square-foot space with displays of wood, tile and vinyl flooring samples. Store manager Peter Beale said they have stocked their showroom with hardwood and tile, which he said Longboaters often seem to prefer over vinyl. Customers who have come in have said they enjoy having home improvement experts on the island, Beale said.
The most foot traffic, though, has been at the outparcel of Brista Commons. The Goodwill Manasota used bookstore has been a hit, something all the Brista tenants have pointed out.
“Goodwill has been doing great,” Mark Ursini said. “They’ve been a great partner with Brista Commons.”
Couch LBK co-owner Ken Rushing shows a pair of shoppers a fabric sample inside the furniture showroom at Brista Commons.
Mark Ursini, owner and developer of Brista Commons.
Photos by S.T. Cardinal
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Paddling to find peace
Veterans enjoy guided kayak tour of Sarasota Bay to connect with nature and each other.
Edwin Cintron said PTSD from his time in the Air Force makes it hard for him to leave the house sometimes, but on a recent Saturday morning, he and a handful of other veterans were on Sarasota Bay paddling kayaks in perfect weather.
The water, the people and the experience is healing for him.
“I deal with depression, so I come out here to relax and mingle with other veterans because I feel at ease when talking to other veterans,” Cintron said. “They kind of understand what you’re going through. That’s why this program is important.”
The free, guided kayak trips are led by Wayne Adventures and sponsored by Sarasota Bay Estuary Program. Tour guide and nature enthusiast Wayne Douchkoff said he enjoys sharing the beauty of the natural environment with others, and it helps him unwind.
“This has three main purposes,” he said. “One is to learn about the bay. The second is, if you’re out here on the bay enjoying it, you’re more likely to want to protect it. I’m building my army of Sarasota Bay supporters. The third is to get vets out with other vets.”
About 30 minutes after pushing off from Ken Thompson Park and into the water, he gathered the dozen of paddlers together for a quick meditation. They balanced their paddles on the kayaks, closed their eyes and put their hands into the cool, salty water.
“The water you’re feeling between your fingers is the same water that was here 1, 2, 3,000 years ago. It’s the same water that goes out to the Gulf of Mexico. The same water that evaporates into the sky and becomes clouds,” Douchkoff told the kayakers. “You’re touching the clouds right now.”
The first of seven tours in 2026, the event welcomed paddlers of all abilities. Former Sarasota Bay Estuary Program Executive Director Dave Tomasko was on the water to support the event and share facts about the bay to those attending.
The partnership that started under Tomasko’s tenure is personal to him.
“My dad was a veteran who was in the Korean War for the whole time. The order was stand or die; no one is coming to pick you up. It messed him up,” Tomasko said. “Dad became an alcoholic and ended up killing himself.”
So when a veteran came into the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program asking to apply for a grant to organize a therapeutic event for veterans, he
was all in. And now, what started as a federal grant-funded event is paid for by SBEP. The tours are therapeutic just by their nature, but can also help veterans in other ways.
Douchkoff works with Veterans Affairs to connect veterans with any needed services, and VA representatives also commonly join the group of paddlers.
“It’s a nonjudgmental entry way to connect with the VA,” said SBEP public outreach manager Megan Barry.
THERAPEUTIC KAYAK TOURS
The recent outing was the first of a series planned in the coming months. The tours organized by Wayne Adventures and funded by Sarasota Bay Estuary Program is free to veterans. Those interested in attending should email WDouchkoff@ aol.com.
Feb. 14: Bowlees Creek, 10 a.m.
March 7: Philippi Estate Park, 10 a.m.
April 18: Neal Preserve, 9 a.m.
May 16: Ken Thompson Park, 9 a.m.
June 13: Robinson Preserve, 9 a.m.
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Dennis Niemeyer volunteers with Wayne Adventures and Sarasota Bay Estuary Program for therapeutic kayak tours free of charge to veterans.
Kayakers prepare to embark from Ken Thompson Park on City Island on a beautiful morning. Six more guided tours are planned as part of a Sarasota Bay Estuary Program-sponsored guided tour from Wayne Douchkoff of Wayne Adventures.
Wayne Douchkoff gathers the troops for a guided meditation on the water. The tour was free for veterans, a therapeutic experience for both veterans and volunteers.
Army veteran David Galperin and his son Maxim kayaked tandem for a therapeutic tour of Sarasota Bay.
Army veteran David Galperin and his son Maxim kayaked tandem for a therapeutic tour of Sarasota Bay.
Photos by S.T. Cardinal
FRIDAY, JAN. 9
MY DINNER WITH SABRINA
CARPENTER. OR NOT.
1:16 a.m., St. Judes Drive
Trespassing: Police were called when a man refused to leave the property of a restaurant after reportedly seeing a world-famous pop-music star who leaves “quite an impression — 5 feet to be exact.”
When the officer arrived, he found a man fitting the description of the potential trespasser who started the conversation by asking the officer if he would like to search him. The officer obliged and found no weapons. The man then told police that he was on the property because during dinner earlier that night at the restaurant, he had seen Sabrina Carpenter. “He felt the situation was fate,” and was waiting for her to return, according to the police report. The man left the property about 1:30 a.m. without incident, and police closed the case.
SUNDAY, JAN. 11
HUNTIN’ SEASON
7:50 a.m., Harbourside Drive
Suspicious incident: Police were called after a woman heard gunshots coming from what sounded like a batch of mangroves nearby. When the officer arrived to the store from which the woman called, he informed her that it was hunting season and there had been similar calls. The woman said she had been told that hunting season had begun but had never heard shots while
SATURDAY, JAN. 10
COULD YOU BE SPECIFIC?
5:46 p.m., 3000 block Gulf of Mexico Drive
Suspicious person: Police were called by a man who wanted to report a suspicious person, though he wasn’t very helpful with the description. The officer arrived with the following to work with: “unknown person, unknown sex with an unknown description smoking on the beach.” The officer searched the beach and found nobody (or everybody) matching the description. He closed the case.
MONDAY, JAN. 12
THAT’S JUST HOW I WALK
7:22 a.m., 2100 block Gulf of Mexico Drive
Suspicious person: Police were called after a dog walker had an unusual interaction with another man while walking through a pedestrian tunnel. The dog walker told police he had seen the man prone in the tunnel a few nights previous. A cordial interaction ensued, in which the
PROVIDING FOR TEMPORARY SUSPENSION OF FEE; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
The public hearing before the Planning and Zoning Board on proposed Ordinance 2026-04 will be held on January 27, 2026, at 9:15 a.m., or as soon thereafter as may be heard, in the Town Commission Chambers at Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key, Florida.
All interested persons may appear and be heard with respect to proposed Ordinance 2026-04 Copies of Ordinance 2026-04 and related material associated with the amendment may be viewed at the Planning, Zoning & Building Department, 501 Bay Isles Road, between 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. weekdays prior to the hearing. Questions may be directed to the Planning, Zoning & Building Department at 941-316-1966. The proposed amendment will affect property within the corporate boundaries of the Town of Longboat Key as shown on the map appearing at the bottom of this advertisement.
No verbatim record by a certified court reporter is made of these proceedings. Accordingly, any person who may seek to appeal any decision involving the matters noticed herein will be responsible for making a verbatim record of the testimony and evidence at these proceedings upon which any appeal is to be based (see Section 286.0105, Fla. Stat.). In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, F.S., persons needing a reasonable accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact the Town Clerk’s office at 941-316-1999 seventy-two (72) hours in advance of this proceeding. If you are hearing impaired or require an alternative means of communication, utilize Florida Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 (TTY) or one of the following toll-free numbers: 1-800-955-8770 (Voice), 1-800-955-1339 (ASCII), 1-877-955-8260 (VCO-Direct), or 1-800-955-5334 (STS)
David Lapovsky, Chair Planning and Zoning Board Published: 1/22/2026
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North-end success brews a second Sips
Family run coffee shop plans to open mid-island location.
ips is a hit.
“It’s definitely exceeded what our expectations were from when we first opened up the shop,” coowner Chris Carter said of the family run coffee shop. “We didn’t think we would grow to where we are today.”
The location at Whitney Beach Plaza has been a regular gathering space on the northern end of Longboat Key since its 2023 opening. The concrete floor and wicker lamps give Sips a beachy, laid-back vibe, and residents return time after time. Adela Ibric is there every day, except for Sundays when the shop is closed, she said. Often seen with headphones on and laptop out, she spends hours working remotely there. On a recent Thursday, steam drifted from her cup of herbal tea while she got some work done. Even as she tries to reduce her caffeine intake in the new year, she still supports Sips.
“I’ll come in just to say hello, and then leave and go to the beach right over there, or I’ll come in and sit down for hours at a time,” she said. “I’ll buy multiple things while sitting here, which their menu caters to easily.”
With Longboaters continuing to support Sips, the business is making a leap, choosing to open a second location at 3172 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Carter said the new Sips will be similar to the existing location, but scaled down. The 859-squarefoot space is less than half the size of the north-end Sips location.
Centrally located on the island next to Swim City and across the street from a public beach access, the shop will allow those on the south end of the island to get a taste
of Sips with less of a trek. The space was previously home to Turtle Coffee Bar, which closed after Hurricane Helene’s extensive damage.
The new Sips adjoins a storefront where a Starbucks was planned. The to-be operator of the Starbucks said they were no longer moving forward with plans for the space at 3174 Gulf of Mexico Drive and wished Sips well. Carter said the Starbucks’ exodus paved the way for his expansion.
“Basically the Starbucks falling through allowed for us to come in,” he said. “We wouldn’t have been able to come in there next door to the Starbucks. I don’t think the owners of the plaza wanted to have two of the exact same businesses there. They want variety. I can’t speak to why the Starbucks fell through. I don’t know, but it did. And when it did, the owners reached out to us.”
The menu at Sips has evolved.
The chalkboard next to the register shows specialty seasonal lattes on offer: the Oreo latte, cloudberry latte, oat lavender matcha latte, etc. The list changes, unless a seasonal drink catches on with customers.
The bumblebee and maple cinnamon lattes are two that became crowd
favorites and are now on the regular menu.
“We kept them on the menu because people just loved them. Even if we took them off the menu, people would ask for them still,” Carter said.
With less kitchen space, Carter said the new Sips will have more of an emphasis on coffee, with some unique drinks that won’t be available at the original location.
But the details of how the two locations will differ when it comes
TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING & HEARING ORDINANCE 2026-06
JANUARY 27, 2026 – 9:15 AM
Please take notice that a public meeting and hearing of the Town of Longboat Key’s Planning and Zoning Board will be held to consider proposed modifications to Title 15 Land Development Code Chapter 150 Buildings, Section 158.18, Compliance with Plans and Specifications of the Code of Ordinances of the Town of Longboat Key, as more particularly set forth in Ordinance 2026-06:
ORDINANCE 2026-06
AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY CODE OF ORDINANCES, TITLE 15, LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE; AMENDING CHAPTER 150, BUILDINGS; AMENDING SECTION 150.18, COMPLIANCE WITH PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
The public hearing before the Planning and Zoning Board on proposed Ordinance 2026-06 will be held on January 27, 2026, at 9:15 a.m., or as soon thereafter as may be heard, in the Town Commission Chambers at Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key, Florida.
All interested persons may appear and be heard with respect to proposed Ordinance 2026-06 Copies of Ordinance 2026-06 and related material associated with the amendment may be viewed at the Planning, Zoning & Building Department, 501 Bay Isles Road, between 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. weekdays prior to the hearing. Questions may be directed to the Planning, Zoning & Building Department at 941-316-1966. The proposed amendment will affect property within the corporate boundaries of the Town of Longboat Key as shown on the map appearing at the bottom of this advertisement.
No verbatim record by a certified court reporter is made of these proceedings. Accordingly, any person who may seek to appeal any decision involving the matters noticed herein will be responsible for making a verbatim record of the testimony and evidence at these proceedings upon which any appeal is to be based (see Section 286.0105, Fla. Stat.). In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, F.S., persons needing a reasonable accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact the Town Clerk’s office at 941-316-1999 seventy-two (72) hours in advance of this proceeding. If you are hearing impaired or require an alternative means of communication, utilize Florida Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 (TTY) or one of the following toll-free numbers: 1-800-955-8770
or 1-800-955-5334 (STS) David Lapovsky Chair Planning and Zoning Board Published: 1/22/2026
to food menu items are still being ironed out.
“I can tell you what is 100%,” Carter said. “It is going to be coffee, smoothies, juices and acai bowls, and there will be baked goods.” Carter said he hopes the second Sips, whose name to be determined, will open before the busy tourist season ends. Construction work is underway.
ALL IN THE FAMILY
Sips coffee shop is owned by Chris and Justina Carter, and they’re not the only ones in the family to own a business on Longboat Key.
Justina’s parents, Mike and Emily Condensa, run Performance Pilates in the same plaza as Sips.
Justina’s brother, Lorenzo Condensa, works at both Sips and Performance Pilates.
Chris said the community as a whole supports family owned businesses and thinks it may have played a part in securing space for Sips’ expansion south.
“Judy (Johnson) who owns (the building), I think seeing Justina and I as small-business owners, I think it reminded her of herself when she was our age,” Chris said. “I think there’s a connection there that she just gravitated to our story and thought it was a good fit. I think it was meant to be.”
File image
The family that runs Sips, from left: Micah Carter, Justina Carter, Chris Carter and Lorenza Condensa.
S.T. Cardinal
John Creighton
“Creighton” Wheeland, 83, passed away January 8, 2026. Born January 3, 1943, in Baltimore, he was a proud U.S. Marine veteran who served in the Pacific and Korea/ Vietnam, a successful software professional and entrepreneur, and a devoted husband, father and grandfather.
He married Joyce in 1967; they raised their daughter Nicole and later moved to Detroit for career
opportunities. John earned Top Secret clearance working with NASA, led Compuware’s Software Engineering Services Group, and ultimately founded his own business. After Joyce’s passing in 2017, he made his home on Longboat Key and recently married Jane Hunter. He is also remembered for his adventurous spirit, love of boating and travel, and his belief in hard work and perseverance.
Survived by his wife Jane; daughter Nicole (and her husband Ron); grandchildren; and other family and friends. Special thanks to caregiver
Merline for her devoted care. SERVICE:
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 24th at the Longboat Island Chapel on Longboat Key, Florida. Family members will be greeting guests at 9:30 am with the service beginning at 10:00 am. A luncheon will follow at 11:30 am.
DONATIONS:
In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s memory can be made to: Tunnel To Towers Foundation, t2t.org Tidewell Hospice, tidewellfoundation.org
Longboat Island Chapel, longboatislandchapel.org
457578-1
City passes control of Bay buildings to conservancy
Sarasota turns over management, rental and maintenance control to the bayside park’s operators.
With renovations completed, underway and scheduled for four historic buildings within the Cultural District of The Bay park, the steward Bay Park Conservancy has secured an agreement with the city of Sarasota to manage rentals of the facilities.
Work has been completed on the Blue Pagoda, Sarasota Garden Club and Chidsey Library buildings and is underway on the Bayfront Community Center. Still to come this spring are renovations to Municipal Auditorium, all structures owned by the city and located within The Bay park’s 53 acres.
Earlier this month, the Sarasota City Commission unanimously approved the amendment to move all management and operations of the structures of the Chidsey Library and the auditorium/community center into the partnership agreement between the two parties.
The BPC is leading the conversion of the city-owned property — which includes the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, the Centennial Park boat launch, the four buildings and more — into a signature green space. All facilities will continue to be owned by the city but managed and maintained by the BPC. The $200 million project is in the midst of Phase 2 construction and planning for Phase 3, all funded 50% by philanthropy and 25% each by the city and county with revenue derived from tax-increment financing collected on improved tax value of downtown properties near the park set against a benchmark of 2020 assessments.
Municipal Auditorium management includes the attached Bayfront Community Center. The Chidsey Library re-opened late year as the offices for the BPC, which were moved from the Blue Pagoda. All four buildings are listed on the National Register for Historic Places. The benefit to the community, BPC Founding CEO AG Lafley told commissioners, is that rates to rent them for events are lower than commercial rental fees of private venues. For the city, benefits include capital improvements now and in the future, and maintenance and management of the facilities are the responsibility of the BPC.
John Creighton “Creighton” Wheeland
ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER
Courtesy image
Sarasota Municipal Auditorium is managed by The Bay Park Conservancy.
Plymouth Harbor celebrates 60th
Beverly Wright remembers the early days of Plymouth Harbor before the thought of moving in even crossed her mind.
Front and center was the view from Coon Key when she visited a friend who had just moved into an eighth-floor unit in the then-brandnew facility on Sarasota Bay.
That vista and other attributes stuck in her mind and remained there as she and her husband approached retirement.
The couple moved to Plymouth Harbor in 2003, watching as it evolved to feature new amenities and programming, such as the exercise classes she enjoys. While she appreciates all those offerings, she believes it is the kindness, attentiveness and conviviality of the staff that has made the organization stand the test of time.
“They support us every minute of every day, and we find ways to support them, too,” she said.
Wright and many other residents joined in celebrating Plymouth Harbor’s 60th anniversary with a kick-off event on Jan. 15 in the Mayflower Dining Room.
The evening featured live per-
formances by the Big Z Band and electric violinist Jason Clark, as well as commentary from community leaders.
Sarasota Mayor Debbie Trice, who delivered a proclamation declaring “Plymouth Harbor Day,” attributed the community with playing a part in her becoming mayor. Her parents had considered joining the wait list at the retirement community but elected to stay at home upon learning they did not have in-unit laundry machines at the time.
“If (my parents) had moved to Plymouth Harbor, I’d still be in California,” she told the room of laughing attendees.
Jeff Weatherhead, CEO and president of Plymouth Harbor, thanked residents for helping the retirement community succeed over the years, ever since the Rev. John Whitney MacNeil dreamed of — and realized — the idea.
He said the high-quality services, amenities, “incredible” location and stimulating programs matter to residents. But more important is the sense of community.
“They’ve made lasting friendships and built deep relationships with one another, all of which support a positive aging experience,” he added.
TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING & HEARING ORDINANCE 2026-02
JANUARY 27, 2026 – 9:15 AM
Please take notice that a public meeting and hearing of the Town of Longboat Key’s Planning and Zoning Board
will be held to consider proposed modifications to Title 15 Land Development Code Chapter 158, Zoning Code, of the Code of Ordinances of the Town of Longboat Key, as more particularly set forth in Ordinance 2026-02:
ORDINANCE 2026-02
AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY CODE OF ORDINANCES, TITLE 15, LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE; AMENDING CHAPTER 158, ZONING CODE; ADDING SECTION 158.120, SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
The public hearing before the Planning and Zoning Board on proposed Ordinance 2026-02 will be held on January 27, 2026, at 9:15 a.m., or as soon thereafter as may be heard, in the Town Commission Chambers at Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key, Florida.
All interested persons may appear and be heard with respect to proposed Ordinance 2026-02 Copies of Ordinance 2026-02 and related material associated with the amendment may be viewed at the Planning, Zoning & Building Department, 501 Bay Isles Road, between 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. weekdays prior to the hearing. Questions may be directed to the Planning, Zoning & Building Department at 941-316-1966. The proposed amendment will affect property within the corporate boundaries of the Town of Longboat Key as shown on the map appearing at the bottom of this advertisement.
No verbatim record by a certified court reporter is made of these proceedings. Accordingly, any person who may seek to appeal any decision involving the matters noticed herein will be responsible for making a verbatim record of the testimony and evidence at these proceedings upon which any appeal is to be based (see Section 286.0105, Fla. Stat.). In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, F.S., persons needing a reasonable accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact the Town Clerk’s office at 941-316-1999 seventy-two (72) hours in advance of this proceeding. If you are hearing impaired or require an alternative means of communication, utilize Florida Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 (TTY) or one of the following toll-free numbers: 1-800-955-8770 (Voice), 1-800-955-1339 (ASCII), 1-877-955-8260 (VCO-Direct), or 1-800-955-5334 (STS) David Lapovsky Chair Planning and Zoning Board Published: 1/22/2026
Weatherhead also offered a special thank you to Chris Pfahler, Plymouth Harbor vice president of philanthropy.
“To say that she singlehandedly planned this whole year’s worth of events is still a little bit of an understatement,” he said.
Plymouth Harbor plans to host more celebratory events throughout the year.
— DANA KAMPA
Photos by Dana Kampa Marie and Tom Belcher
Plymouth Harbor on Sarasota Bay kicked off its 60th anniversary celebration on Jan. 15 with live music and guests including Plymouth Harbor President and CEO
Jeff Weatherhead, Sarasota Mayor Debbie Trice, Chris Pfahler, Plymouth Harbor vice president of philanthropy, Pastor Wes Bixby of First Congregational United Church of Christ Sarasota and Sara Little, president of the Resident Association.
Musician Jason Clark plays the electric violin.
SHOW OF THE CENTURY
The 100th anniversary of the Sarasota Yacht Club and St. Armands Circle was a oncein-a-lifetime event.
For Bill Hadley, co-chair of the YachtRodders group within the Sarasota Yacht Club, so was putting together a car show.
Although he is a car fan who enjoys attending shows, the group was working from scratch assembled its own show featuring vehicles also spanning 100 years.
“I spent the last six months going to car shows, inviting the best of the shows here, and we got them,” he said. “I’m really happy to see it all come together. It’s been amazing. We had a boatload of volunteers to help us put all this together.”
He said the event tied together the past in more than one way.
Not only were both local fixtures being celebrated founded by John Ringing in 1926, but the yacht club was also originally known as the Sarasota Yacht and Automobile Club.
The event began with a parade
of 35 cars, starting on Main Street in Sarasota and concluding on St. Armands Circle. The show featured a total of some 175 cars, including a display on the circle where exhibitors dressed in period costume to match the era of their car.
“What I love about the show is just the variety of different types of vehicles, and the idea that it represents 100 years,” said Candace Ordonez of Bird Key. “Really a beautiful sight and a great day.”
WORSHIP directory
— IAN SWABY
Phil Annunziato looks over his 1959 Cadillac Series 62 Convertible, “Big Red,” that carried Sarasota Yacht Club Commodore Robert Milligan.
Photos by Ian Swaby
Patty and Charles Clark stand beside their Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS and Porsche 911 Turbo S.
Brigitte Burke and Sheryl Taritas get a look at the 1939 MG VA owned by Douglas Kniff.
Mark Rosenthal learns about a phonograph from Tom Shults, who co-owns a 1926 Fort Model T Runabout with his wife, Debbie Shults.
Tom Watson showcases his 1929 Ford Model A.
Courtesy of Carissa Warfield
The parade makes its way down Main Street in Downtown Sarasota.
The Edge Sarasota: Created for a Select Few
Offering an elevated downtown living experience for the most discerning individuals, this exclusive ten-story boutique condominium represents a harmonious blend of private sanctuary and lively community, offering meticulously designed residences that redefine urban sophistication.
Each finely-appointed home in this desirable ten-story condominium provides a private paradise of meticulously chosen finishes and features to impress even the most selective buyer.
WHERE WELLNESS ISN’T AN ESCAPE-IT’S THE EVERYDAY
At The Edge, wellness is woven into the rhythm of daily life, with each thoughtfully designed space inviting balance, beauty, and a sense of renewal-mindfully crafted for those who seek more from where they live.
THE ART OF ENTERTAINING, PERFECTED
From expansive living areas to elegantly appointed gathering spaces, every detail is curated for those who love to host beautifully and live memorably.
A PINNACLE OF LUXURY IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN
Perfectly positioned at the center of Sarasota’s cultural, dining, and arts scene, The Edge offers a lifestyle defined by walkability and connec-
tion. Enjoy fine dining with friends, then walk to the theatre, opera house, or fine dining venue-all steps from home.
AN OPULENT OASIS SOARING ABOVE SARASOTA
The Edge’s amenities evoke the feeling of a luxury retreat with dedicated spaces for relaxation, unhurried enjoyment, and refined comfort.
Soak up sun-drenched afternoons on the private terrace, take a dip in the resort-style pool, relax in an intimate cabana, grill and dine al fresco while enjoying the sweeping views of Sarasota Bay. Close the day with a soothing soak in the spa, taking in panoramic views of the city’s sparkling skyline.
The state-of-the-art fitness center features top-of-the-line cardio and conditioning equipment, and a relaxing, meditative yoga studio for your wellness needs.
Greet guests in our sophisticated concierge lobby and elegant social lounge-welcoming spaces created for leisure, connection, and everyday enjoyment.
From pet spas to dedicated watering stations, The Edge provides a range of features tailor-made for pet lovers.
destination.
100
... and change
A new group of Longboaters aims to make a difference by each donating $1,000.
DANA KAMPA STAFF WRITER
One night. One hundred change makers. One hundred thousand dollars to benefit a deserving local nonprofit.
Those are the components driving one of the newest charitable efforts coming to Longboat Key.
On Feb. 17, the newly formed Longboat Key 100 will host a fundraising evening to benefit a to-bedetermined local group.
This new group is not a 501(c)(3) and does not intend to collect donations. Instead, it will bring together a collection of 100 women of influence who are interested in benefiting the nonprofit directly.
Each attendee will commit to donating $1,000.
Michelle Johnson and Danielle Gladding, two of the seven founding members of the Longboat Key chapter, explained how this directdonation model ensures the maximum spending power goes to the benefiting organization rather than covering overhead costs.
Johnson said she drew inspiration from a similar group in Hudson, Wisconsin.
“Now, there are organizations around the country that do the same thing,” she said. “They bring together 100 women to make a huge impact in one night.”
Joining Johnson and Gladding are founders Heidi Berry, Nicholle DiPinto, Betsy Juliano, Pat Watral and Julia Woodward.
Johnson said they each have contributed to making the night happen,
“The whole event should be a lot of fun, and I knew this area would be perfect for it.”
— Michelle Johnson
with Berry especially adept at sorting through applications from interested nonprofits.
The founders contributed ideas for possible charities to feature, and they reached out to the wider community for applications through word of mouth and social media.
Organizers used several criteria to then narrow the pool down to three potential charities. Groups needed to show a sustainable model for helping the community and have a specific use for the one-time donation.
The evening of the event, attendees will hear pitches from those three and vote on a final charity to receive the $100,000.
One of the main considerations they had was whether the suggested charity had a specific need that could be met with the one-time contribution to accomplish something truly transformative for the community.
Gladding is familiar with many local organizations, but even she learned quite a bit more about the incredible work they do for the community when reviewing applications.
She did note that the two other finalist charities will also benefit from opportunities to connect with local leaders and potential future volunteers and donors.
“The whole event should be a lot of fun, and I knew this area would be perfect for it,” Johnson said.
Gladding added, “We are so blessed here, and there are so many people who want to give back.”
The Longboat Key 100 organizers intend to make this effort an annual event. For those organizations that would like to be considered for next year’s event, email LongboatKey100@gmail.com.
HOW TO REGISTER
The dinner takes place from 6-9 p.m. Feb. 17 in the Ringling Room of The Resort at Longboat Key Club. Cost is $95 for dinner and drinks. A $1,000 contribution to the chosen charity is required. Attendance is limited, so register through the Key Club app. Email LongboatKey100@ gmail.com. Visit the Longboat Key 100 page on Facebook for updates.
Courtesy images
Longboat Key 100 founders Julia Woodward, Betsy Juliano, Heidi Berry, Danielle Gladding and Michelle Johnson, along with Nicholle DiPinto McKiernan, Pat Watral and Julia Woodward (not pictured), have united to launch a new, one-night evening of giving to support a local nonprofit with $100,000 in donations.
Nicholle DiPinto McKiernan Pat Watral
YOUR CALENDAR
THURSDAY, JAN. 22
THE SHOPPES AT BAY ISLES
RIBBON CUTTING
4-6:30 p.m. at Reed Concierge Medical Group, 544 Bay Isles Road. Enjoy music, light bites and bubbly at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly relocated and expanded Reed Concierge Medical Group and Longboat Key Fitness. Contact the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce at 941-383-2466.
PRIVATE MEMORY SCREENINGS
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Courtesy of Youthful Aging Home Care, 45-minute appointments are available to check up on memory health. Call 941-383-6493.
BRAIN GAMES
2-3 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Sylvia Day of the Florida Studio Theatre leads an engaging, fun session. Free. Call 941-383-6493.
SATURDAY, JAN. 24
MEET ARTIST RICK PALS
11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Three Island Monkeys, 5620 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Chat with artist Rick Pals at his latest meet-and-greet event. Visit ThreeIslandMonkeys.com.
SUNDAY, JAN. 25
SONGS FROM AROUND THE WORLD
3-4:30 p.m. at The Education Center, 567 Bay Isles Road. As part of the Sunday Performing Arts Program, vocalist Barbara King is performing “Songs from around the World” with Scott Blum, Grant Guthbertson and Chris Neville. Cost is $40 for members; $45 for nonmembers. Register at TBIEducationCenter.org, 941-383-8222 or Admin@TBIEducationCenter.org.
TUESDAY, JAN. 27
‘DIVERSE MINDS, POWERFUL INSIGHTS’ LECTURE
3-4:30 p.m. at The Education Center, 567 Bay Isles Road. The latest installment of The Education Center’s lecture series features Sarah Wertheimer, CEO of Embracing Our Differences, and Patrick Arthur Jackson, vice president of learning and engagement. Registration required. Cost is $25 for members or $30 for others for a single lecture; or $240 for members and $300 for others for the full series. Register at TBIEducationCenter.org, 941-383-8222 or Admin@TBIEducationCenter.org.
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 28
TO SATURDAY, JAN. 31
GARDEN CLUB ANNUAL TRUNK SALE
9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at J. McLaughlin — Longboat Key, 515 Bay Isles Parkway, Unit 6. The Longboat Key Garden Club is holding its annual trunk sale at the J. McLaughlin on Bay Isles Parkway. Part of all sales benefit the garden club. Call
BEST BET
SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, JAN. 24-25
ST. ARMANDS CIRCLE WINTER
ART FESTIVAL
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on St. Armands Circle, 300 Madison Drive. Admission is free to this showcase of high-end artists specializing in various media. Gallerystyle booths will line the South Boulevard of the Presidents and St. Armands Circle Park. Email Info@ArtFestival.com or visit ArtFestival.com.
941-960-2071 or email STFLLongboatKey@JMcLaughlin.com.
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 28 OFF THE CLOCK AT COUCH LBK
5-7 p.m. at Couch LBK, 3130 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Join the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce for the first “Off the Clock” networking event of the year. Cost is $10 for chamber members; $20 for others. Visit LongboatKeyChamber.com.
RECURRING EVENTS
TUESDAY POP-UP LIBRARY
10 a.m. at the Town Center Green, 600 Bay Isles Road. The Sarasota County Pop-Up Library hosts services on the first and third Tuesdays of each month.
KEY OF SEA REHEARSAL
1-3 p.m. at St. Armands Key Lutheran Church, 40 N. Adams Drive. Warm up those vocal cords with the Key of Sea Choral weekly rehearsal. Email Goodman@Oakland.edu.
THURSDAYS AND FRIDAYS
BRIDGE CLUB
1 p.m. at the Bayfront Park Recreation Center, 4052 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Reservations required. Contact Patty Mayer at 262-215-2566 or PattySarasota33@gmail.com.
Dana Kampa Artist Cesia Acevedo Martinez, showing her work at the St. Armands Circle Craft Festival, says not every flamingo needs to be pink.
READING REVOLUTION
Sarasota Yacht Club youth leaders make reading fun with vending machine.
There are no soda cans or bags of chips in this vending machine. Instead, it holds something a bit more special — something that can inspire a lifelong passion for exploring the world, learning more about connecting with others and dreaming big when it comes to the future. The newest vending machine at Alta Vista Elementary School in Sarasota dispenses a selection of free books for young readers. Members of the Sarasota Yacht
Club’s youth Ensign Board recently made it their mission to install the book-vending machine, and on Jan. 13, they celebrated the unveiling with staff and students.
Lilliana Sultana, the board’s junior secretary, said it was a special moment to witness the students’ joy.
“It was so cool to see how happy they were,” she said. “It felt very fulfilling to see that they love it so much.”
Junior commander Calista Ream said they found inspiration for the project last spring through her mother’s work with the school’s literary board. Becky Henry, a fifthgrade teacher at the school, holds the title of Alta Vista’s Teacher of the Year 2025.
Ream brought the project idea to the Ensign Board, and the youth leaders decided to run with it.
The day of the unveiling, four students tried out the machine and, after some eager jumps of anticipation, walked away with their own copies of “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Deep End.”
Principal Meredith McArthur said the school is grateful to receive the vending machine because it not only gets books in the hands of more students but also brings an excitement factor to winning a prize they can keep. She noted that the contribution is especially meaningful to the Title 1 school.
“To see their genuine excitement when that book comes down and the thrill of the moment, that’s the most important piece,” she said. “They’re making decisions about what book they want to get when they get their coin. What I love most is that they get to say, ‘This is MY book.’”
Ream said the Ensign Board covered 100% of the installation costs with the support of SYC Cares —the yacht club’s fundraising organization — and has donors lined up to help keep the machine stocked with books.
Inchy’s Bookworm Vending Machine is the company that provides the customizable vending machines. According to the company, it has reached more than 10,000 schools and dispensed more than 12.6 million books.
The personalized Alta Vista machine shows off the school’s eagle mascot perched on a pile of books, burying his beak in his book of choice. The accompanying logo reads “Eagles read. Eagles Lead!”
Literacy coach Bonnie Michaels encourages parents and guardians to foster a love of learning by asking their children questions about what they’re reading.
“We want them to talk about the setting and characters and sequence of events going on through the story,” she said. “When you think about how a character changes from beginning to end and where their perspective is coming from, it engages the kids in the conversation.”
The book selection includes titles aimed at readers of all ages. Choices include books by beloved illustrator Eric Carle, most widely known for his vibrant tissue-paper-style pictures featured in “The Very Hungry Caterpillar.” Students can also find
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Alta Vista Elementary School Principal Meredith McArthur explained how the process works. When students go above and beyond at school, perhaps for picking up a piece of litter or helping out in class, they are eligible to receive a shiny gold token featuring “Inchy the
newer titles, such as the nonfiction “Hidden Figures” story about the space race’s early days and an unsung group of women whose math skills helped make the Mercury missions possible.
Sarasota Yacht Club Commodore Robert Milligan said he is proud to see how the youth leaders saw the project through to the end. SYC Cares board member Roy Grossman added, “It’s an example of the club being able to give back to the community. When you see these adorable children able to benefit, there is no greater feeling.”
FUTURE PROJECTS
Now that they have experience working with the vending machine company, the young leaders hope to consult with other Title 1 schools in the area about future installations. But they are also looking at undertakings with other local institutions. With the support of SYC Cares, the charitable arm of the yacht club, Ream said they are exploring a project to create a bridge between SPARCC and Child Protection Center Inc.
Bonnie Michaels, literacy coach at Alta Vista Elementary School, helps students Deja (fifth grade), Gianni (fourth grade), Yoselyn (first grade) and Andre (second grade) try out the new book vending machine. Sarasota Yacht Club youth board members coordinated the installation to help promote strong reading habits.
Photos by Dana Kampa
The book selection in the machine includes titles aimed at a wide range of ages.
GULF FRONT BIRD KEY
LONGBOAT HARBOUR
A lasting legacy
TThe
welcomed
The outdoor showcase features 50 large-scale works created by artists from around the world with themes of inclusion and kindness.
At the service, Embracing Our Differences President and CEO Sarah Wertheimer and board Chair Judge Charles Williams explained the motivation behind the free art exhibition.
“We are truly an education
organization, and that’s where we spend the majority of our time, energy and resources,” Wertheimer said. “We use the art to help teach about these vital messages.”
He encouraged those on hand to explore King’s words beyond his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech.
“I think it will change your perspective about what Dr. King stood for at that moment in Washington,” he said. “He was more than a man of faith. He saw himself as a servant of God and felt called upon to speak for the oppressed, and bring forward God’s vision of justice and righteousness. ... He felt a deep calling, beyond race or nation, and said, famously, ‘Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.’”
Williams noted that even when King grew weary in his fight for justice, “his faith and his credence to his god, and the message of universal love and acceptance never wavered. ... We must continue to celebrate kindness, respect and inclusion.”
The service also incorporated the talents of Longboat Key residents. In her welcome, Temple Beth Israel’s longtime music director and organist Ann StephensonMoe said she continues to learn more about the impact his message continues to have globally.
“When I was doing some of my study and preparation, I was struck by the enormity of his legacy,” she said. “I have been overwhelmed by the pouring out of the love musicians all over the world have for Martin Luther King Jr. He has been dead 58 years, and it’s like it was yesterday.”
The evening also featured performances of songs by the TBI choir, including “In the Name of
IF YOU GO
When: Open during daylight hours through April 19
Where: Bayfront Park in Sarasota, 5 Bayfront Drive
What: Visitors can take in 50 billboard-sized works of art imagined by artists worldwide. The showcase aims to celebrate respect, kindness and inclusion.
Tickets: Admission is free, as are guided tours scheduled at 10 a.m. Saturdays while the exhibition is open.
Info: Visit EmbracingOurDifferences.org.
Love,” a candle blessing by the Social Action Committee and special readings from the Torah.
Reflecting on current events, Rabbi Jessica Spitalnic Mates said that the phrase “sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me” doesn’t always hold true.
“Words do hurt, but words also help and heal and inspire and change,” she said. “It seems a battle, today, between hurting words and healing words. That is why I am so honored to know that our synagogue platform will be filled tonight with wise words.”
— DANA KAMPA
Judge Charles Williams, chairman of the board for Embracing Our Differences, joined by President and CEO Sarah Wertheimer, speaks to the importance of celebrating a variety of perspectives. They appeared as guest speakers for Temple Beth Israel’s special memorial Shabbat service on Jan. 16 to honor Martin Luther King Jr.
Members of
Temple Beth Israel
Action Committee
candles in remembrance of Martin Luther King Jr.
Photos by Dana Kampa
Temple Beth Israel Senior Rabbi Jessica Spitalnic Mates.
Soloist Kei Sulhi, backed by fellow members of the Temple Beth Israel choir, offers her annual rendition of “The King of Love is Dead,” originally sung by Nina Simone and written by Gene Taylor, in memory of Martin Luther King Jr.
Club salutes new officers
The Longboat Harbour Yacht Club held its 2026 Change of Watch ceremony on Jan. 17, welcoming back Jeff Hecklau as commodore.
Besides dockmaster John Shea, Hecklau is joined by a new leadership team.
Last year’s officers included Brenda Yewell, Mike Cantrell, Gregg Stanley, John Harkness and Robert Geraci. New this year are Susan Luke as purser, Herb Ritchell as scribe and Mike Perez as vice commodore.
Town Commissioner Steve Branham, joined that evening by his wife, Susan Phillips, conducted the swearing-in ceremony at the club’s Recreation Hall after offering a few words on the tradition of the Change of Command.
“This is one of the most time-honored traditions in the maritime services,” he said. “It’s a solemn event, yet also a joyous one.”
He encouraged the new leaders to remember the responsibility and accountability that come with the chain of command.
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Hecklau thanked Branham for his years of service as a rear admiral for the U.S. Coast Guard.
The freshly resworn commodore said he anticipates an exciting year for the club, with developments to include filling 11
open dock slots.
Longboat Harbour Owners Association
President Dale Mackovjak noted in his remarks that the yacht club does more than oversee management of the facility’s docks. It also plays a key role in maintaining the organization’s social ties.
“As one of our past commodores said, it’s really about boaters helping boaters,” he added.
He continued, “We’re very fortunate to have such an active club be part of the Longboat Harbour community.”
The ceremony concluded with a bagpipe performance by David Driscoll.
— DANA KAMPA
Leaders from the Longboat Harbour Yacht Club participate in the swearing-in ceremony during the Jan. 17 Change of Watch. From left: John Shea, dockmaster; Susan Luke, purser; Herb Ritchell, scribe; Mike Perez, vice commodore; and Jeff Hecklau, commodore.
Photos by Dana Kampa
Former Longboat Harbour Yacht Club Commodores Joe and Kathy Sever applaud the newest fleet leaders at the Change of Watch on Jan. 17.
By the water, in the water, on the water. Whenever you wish. Wherever you want. All this, steps to Sarasota, yet tucked privately away on Golden Gate Point. This is the incomparable life Amara, unquestionably, Sarasota’s most exciting and remarkable residences, ever. Now accepting contracts.
Bird Key home tops week’s sales at $5.1 million
ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR
Gunther Blaseio and Rosa Maria Reimann Blaseio, of Sarasota, sold their home at 604 Mourning Dove Drive to Morgan Gillett and Lori Gillett, trustees, of Westerville, Ohio, for $5.1 million. Built in 2006, it has five bedrooms, fourand-a-half baths, a pool and 5,240 square feet of living area. It sold for $2.47 million in 2018.
REGENT PLACE
Richard Antoine and Dorothy O’Brien, trustees, of Sarasota, sold the Unit 16B condominium at 655 Longboat Club Road to Mark and Kathryn Duhaime, of Rochester, Michigan, for $3,875,000. Built in 1995, it has three bedrooms, threeand-a-half baths and 3,139 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.75 million in 2004.
SLEEPY LAGOON
John and Kimberly Jo Wise, trustees, of Longboat Key, sold the home at 6601 Gulfside Road to 9403 Gulf Drive LLC for $3.64 million. Built in 1969, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,492 square feet of living area. It sold for $2.5 million in 2018.
COUNTRY CLUB SHORES
Deborah Lynch, trustee, of Robert Lynch, of Longboat Key, sold the home at 560 Schooner Lane to Lori Jo Marie Krengel, trustee, of Longboat Key, for $3.31 million. Built in 1965, it has five bedrooms, fourand-a-half baths, a pool and 3,442 square feet of living area. It sold for $842,500 in 2010.
L’AMBIANCE AT LONGBOAT KEY CLUB
Roberta Lynn Hoffman, of Longboat Key, sold her Unit K-506 condominium at 435 L’Ambiance Drive to Robert and Hillary Pease, of West Hartford, Connecticut, for $3.1 million. Built in 1994, it has two bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths and 2,822 square feet of living area. It sold for $2.8 million in 2021.
SANCTUARY AT LONGBOAT KEY CLUB
Laura Odell, trustee, of Sarasota, sold the Unit A-602 condominium at 535 Sanctuary Drive to Clare Seshul, trustee, of Peoria Heights, Illinois, for $2.3 million. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two-and-ahalf baths and 2,580 square feet of living area. It sold for $560,000 in 1991.
THE WATER CLUB AT LONGBOAT KEY
Vsage LLC sold the Unit 906 condominium at 1281 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Roberta Hoffman, of Longboat Key, for $2.2 million. Built in 1999, it has two bedrooms, three baths and 2,665 square feet of living area. It sold for $1,375,000 in 2020.
L’ELEGANCE ON LIDO BEACH
John Love and Colleen Conley, of Evanston, Illinois, sold their Unit B-310 condominium at 1800
Benjamin Franklin Drive to Suzanne Waring McNitt, trustee, of Denver, for $1.9 million. Built in 1996, it has two bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 1,700 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.1 million in 2013.
PELICAN HARBOUR & BEACH CLUB
Suzanne Golden, of River Edge, New Jersey, and Neal Demaio, of Sarasota, trustees, Nanette Matte, of Bradenton, John Flannigan, of Essex Junction, Vermont, Michael Demaio, of Equinunk, Pennsylvania, Denise Norkus, of Los Angeles, Katherine Drury, of Oradell, New Jersey, and Rosemary Reichard, of Evesham, New Jersey, sold the Unit 202 condominium at 4241 Gulf of Mexico Drive to 4241 Gulf of Mexico
TOP BUILDING PERMITS
of Jan. 9-15 in order of dollar amounts.
Drive LLC for $1.15 million. Built
in 1980, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 1,660 square feet of living area. It sold for $225,000 in 1986.
Michael and Cynthia Seamon, of Longboat Key, sold their Unit H-1 condominium at 4241 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Keith and Susan Feinberg, of Bergen, New Jersey, for $695,000. Built in 1973, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 1,150 square feet of living area. It sold for $450,000 in 2021.
LONGBEACH
Henry Albert Smith III and Donna Rae Smith, of Towson, Maryland, sold their home at 691 Linley St. to Jonathon Hunter, of Joplin, Missouri, for $915,000. Built in 1977, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 2,252 square feet of living area. It sold for $539,000 in 2015.
THE PLAYERS CLUB
Joyce Wade sold the Unit 402 condominium at 1465 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Daniel Anaya Saenz and Maria del Pilar Suz Ruiz, of Tampa, for $890,000. Built in 1981, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,668 square feet of living area. It sold for $720,000 in 2016.
TIFFANY PLAZA
Dorothy Williams, trustee, of Burleson, Texas, sold the Unit 306 condominium at 4325 Gulf of Mexico Drive to RBJM LLC for $850,000. Built in 1975, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,336 square feet of living area. It sold for $177,500 in 1992.
See more transactions at
Dana Kampa
The home at 604 Mourning Dove Drive sold for $5.1 million.
Listen up, Audible fans
Founder Don Katz connects with Bird Key audience.
DANA KAMPA STAFF WRITER
Audible Inc. revolutionized the audiobook business 30 years ago, opening up a new world of learning and entertainment for listeners around the world. Founder Don Katz recently shared with Bird Key Yacht Club members the story of how the company got its start, evolving from the Audible MobilePlayer to the current-day subscription service. But what he didn’t expect was a surprise from the past in the crowd.
Bird Key Yacht Club Commodore
his former salon.
Stop by and visit Greg, who is ready to assist with
Tony Britt introduced Katz to kick off the season’s speaker series. He noted this is the third installment of the series, which has provided a venue for members to hear from trailblazing artists, musicians, business leaders and more.
Joined on the stage by moderator Richard Besser, CEO and president of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and a friend of 20 years, Katz revisited the early days of the company on Jan. 9 at The Ora.
During the question-and-answer segment, Barbara Vandervolk introduced herself as the former senior vice president of Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic.
She recalled discussing education for children with visual impairments and learning challenges with Katz around the time Audible was finding its footing.
“You were kind enough to come be our keynote speaker at our gala at The Pierre Hotel in New York a year after we met,” she said. “I’m so grateful you’re here in Sarasota and proud to remember that friendship.”
Katz shared his pride in how Audible has helped young people who may struggle with reading.
The journey of going from a career in journalism to launching the company wasn’t always easy. That is especially true considering the effort it took to bring to market infrastruc-
ture of streaming books to listeners who might have been accustomed to cassettes. But Katz credited his wife with being an anchor amid the ebb and flow of the fledgling business.
The company grew to reach millions of listeners. Besser noted the brand delivers 4 billion hours of content to 180 countries in 47 languages.
Katz was CEO until 2020 and executive chairman until 2022. Even later, he continues to receive acclaim for his work, becoming a member of the New Jersey Hall of Fame in November 2024.
Looking back on how the company has benefited people over the past three decades, Katz told the Observer that one of the things he most appreciates is how it has helped people daily and when in distress.
“I remember when Hurricane Katrina happened, it blew out all infrastructure along the coast,” he shared. “I was able to reach out to the entire Audible customer base, and I told them they wouldn’t get charged for the months after the storm. We said, ‘We hope you can find a way to get in.’ I got emails from hundreds and hundreds of people.”
Audible Studios went on to produce a free book, titled “Stories from the Storm: Hurricane Katrina Survivors, In Their Own Words,” detailing stories from survivors who found comfort in the aftermath amongst their audiobooks.
He said knowing the product he helped create helped provide solace to survivors is a great source of joy.
Dana Kampa Don Katz, founder of the audiobook company Audible, reminisced with Bird Key Yacht Club members about the company’s beginnings just after its 30th anniversary. Katz joined members for this season’s lecture series on Jan. 9 at The Ora. Richard Besser, CEO and president of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, moderated.
Downtown’s first new luxury high-rise residences with three-day minimum rental freedom.
Where the arts meet Gulf waters and refinement blends effortlessly with sunlit leisure, a new vision of downtown Sarasota living is taking shape. Saravela, a transformative luxury high-rise by Chicago-based GSP Development, introduces a rare combination of sophisticated design, resort-style living, and unprecedented owner flexibility.
More than a residential address, Saravela embodies its promise of “Distinctively Different Downtown Living.” Fully furnished condominium residences, penthouses, and townhomes are thoughtfully designed for modern lifestyles, complemented by ground-level retail and professional on-site management. Most notably, Saravela offers three-day minimum rental flexibility – an uncommon advantage in new downtown construction – allowing owners the freedom to enjoy their residence on their own terms.
Life at Saravela unfolds across six inspired levels of amenities totaling more than 47,000 square feet. From the elegant arrival lobby to co-working lounges, pet amenities, and family-friendly spaces including an attended Kids’ Club and duckpin bowling, each level is curated to enhance daily life. Wellness takes center stage at the upper levels with rooftop pools, spa experiences, hot and cold plunge pools, and state-of-the-art fitness studios. Social spaces like clubrooms and rooftop fire pits create natural settings for gathering and connection.
Residences reflect a refined, turnkey approach to luxury. Thoughtfully designed floor plans allow pricing to begin under $1 million without compromising quality, with interiors fully furnished by renowned designer Steven G. Floor-to-ceiling windows, expansive terraces, Italian cabinetry, and smart-home technology frame sweeping views of downtown Sarasota and the bay. Architecture by Kimmich Smith and interiors by ID & Design International complete the modern coastal aesthetic.
Enhanced by concierge, valet, spa services, and optional housekeeping, Saravela delivers a lifestyle defined by ease, confidence and joy, reimagining what it means to live and own in downtown Sarasota.
For more information on new condominium residences, penthouses and townhomes with short-term rental options, visit the exciting new Presentation Gallery at 430 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236, explore Saravela.com or call 941-841-0161.
19TH FLOOR ROOFTOP AMENITY DECK
NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH
FORECAST
Jan. 26 7:19a 6:07p
Jan. 27 7:18a 6:08p
Jan. 28 7:18a 6:08p
TIDES
“LET ME COOK!” by Aidan Deshong, edited by Jared Goudsmit
By Luis Campos
Cipher
people,
Gary Wise captured this vibrant sunset on Longboat Key.
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