THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2025
Disputes have shaped Longboat’s history
Church blown away by donations
With four cars filled to the brim with food and diaper donations and $9,000 in cash donations to contribute, Christ Church of Longboat Key hosted its most successful drive to date last week, Sue Wertman said. Donations from the Nov. 11 drive went to support Our Daily Bread in Bradenton. Wertman said she and eight other volunteers were busy for the entirety of the drive as they accepted shelf-stable foods and hygiene items. Those still wishing to donate can contact Wertman at the church at 941-383-8833. For more about the food pantry, visit OurDailyBreadOfBradenton.org.
St. Mary to host Christmas bazaar
Holiday celebrants seeking a bit of Christmas sparkle can find it at this weekend’s pop-up bazaar.
St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church is holding a craft market from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 15 at 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive. It will also reopen it after the 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. masses on Nov. 16.
Kay Kochenderfer, president of the Women’s Guild, and Bonnie Schneider said shoppers will find everything from a wall of hand-decorated wreaths to miniature Christmas villages.
Courtesy image
Sue Wertman, Britney Vela and Mark McLaughlin
Dana Kampa
Kay Kochenderfer, president of the Women’s Guild, and Bonnie Schneider
By the numbers
70 years after Longboat residents decided to govern themselves, some notable figures stand out.
1949
Two founding fathers of Longboat Key moved to the barrier island: Guy Paschal and Herb Field. Paschal was the driving force to incorporate the town and was named honorary lifetime mayor in 1955. Field was an influential businessman who started The Colony, served for five years on the first Town Commission and rebranded Sleepy Lagoon to the Buccaneer Inn.
1,000
Gordon Whitney, who moved to Longboat Key in 1935, bought 1,000 feet of beachfront property and named it Whitney Beach, which became a popular vacation spot. The Whitney name remains synonymous on the northend of Longboat Key, a sign of the Whitney family influence in the formative years of Longboat Key.
G26
The number of people Guy and Melanie Paschal convinced to sign up for the town’s first volunteer Fire Department after purchasing a 1923 fire engine for $75 from Clearwater, driving it to Longboat with no brakes and pulling up to Mar Vista to a crowd of excited Saturdaynight patrons.
uy and Melanie Paschal came to Longboat Key in 1949, moving into a large house built by Amish carpenters.
The couple were described as “a most unusual couple” by early resident Nell Shenkel and “characters in their own right” by Ralph Hunter. They had dogs, cats, parakeets, chickens, ducks, geese, Pancake the cow, Mammy the Emu and more.
Guy was a driving force in the founding of the town of Longboat Key and was named honorary lifetime mayor after the 1955 incorporation.
The loft of their home hosted the first worship services on the island. The grassroots non-denominational church had no minister, but the group moved to the art center in 1957 and its members formed the first physical church on the island, Longboat Island Chapel, in 1963.
Paschal also founded the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce, newspaper The Longboat Look-out and Keynotes, described as a phonebook and guide to activities on Longboat Key.
In 1957, after the foundation of the town was formed, Guy and Melanie moved to a 26-acre farm in Oneco, where there was a bit more room for the animals.
$3.5 MILLION
The price Dr. Murray “Murf” Klauber paid to buy The Colony from Herb Field in 1972. Klauber’s vision of turning the resort into America’s first tennis-centric resort became reality. In its heyday, there were 230 condo units, 21 tennis courts, a gourmet restaurant, on-site florist, meeting space and a health club.
NOTABLE MOMENTS IN EARLY LONGBOAT HISTORY
1955 Longboat Key registered voters vote to incorporate Longboat Key into a municipality.
1958 Longboat Pass bridge is constructed, reconnecting the north end of the island to Anna Maria Island for the first time in 26 years.
1959 Arvida purchases a large swath of land on the south end of Longboat Key, ushering in a wave of development.
1963 The first brick-and-mortar church, Longboat Island Chapel, is dedicated and opened.
1965 Total appraised property evaluations are $18.6 million.
1972 Dr. Murray “Murf” Klauber purchases the Colony from Herb Field.
1973 The town enacts a building moratorium, which lasts one year.
1980 Town Commission greenlights Arvida’s plans to build 1,825 condos off Gulf of Mexico Drive.
1983 Longboat Key total property evaluations reach $838.8 million.
1984 Longboat Key Town Commission enacts zoning reform as part of its new comprehensive planning.
“When the Sarasota Commission decided to put a public beach in front of the new trailer parks, the Key rose up. There was enough interference by the county in Longboat affairs as it was, and the residents had nothing to say in decisions of zoning, taxation, roads, (etc.)” — Guy Paschal
BARROOM BRAWL
With independence often comes violence, and Longboat Key was no exception.
In 1955, Guy Paschal was making the rounds advocating for incorporation of the town. At Civic Club meetings, Major J.B. Holt and Charles Flanagan were vocal opponents of the idea.
Even after incorporation, the debate raged on in bars.
At Mar Vista in 1956, there sat Flanagan “well in his cups.” He said he
was a champion lightheavyweight boxer and called Paschal a coward.
Paschal left the bar and Flanagan followed, punching him as he got into his car. Flanagan then ran to his own car eliciting a cry from an onlooker who said “That’s where he keeps his gun!” Flanagan emerged with a tire iron and the two brawled for “a few minutes.”
At the next Civic Club meeting, Paschal sported a black eye. Flanagan was a no-show and was
last seen sporting two black eyes. In the crowd at the next Commission meeting, crowd members were armed with badly concealed weapons, ranging from golf clubs to pipe wrenches. Chief of Police Gib Herringshaw stood behind Paschal during the meeting, guarding the window. Thankfully, no weapons were used.
Source: “From Calusas to Condominiums” by Ralph Hunter
Guy Paschal
Image courtesy of the Longboat Key Historical Society Guy and Melanie Paschal with their dogs.
Image courtesy of Joseph Steinmetz
A vintage postcard shows The Colony Beach Resort in the early 1960s.
For 70 years, Longboat has always been Longboat
Since its inception in 1955, Longboat Key has obviously grown, but there is always a sign that remains constant. S.T.
Longboat Key became a town in 1955 when registered voters chose to incorporate the barrier island by a 186-13 margin.
A lot has happened since.
Population growth, a few more condos, conservation wins.
And a lot has stayed the same.
In 1957, the town of Longboat Key’s Magistrate Court convened for the first time. The issue at stake?
A sign placed by the Buccaneer Inn.
Decades later, in 1983, a Code Enforcement Board debate centered around the Buccaneer Inn again: Is a pirate statue a sign?
Minutes show that the board brought up Longboat precedent — like when the order came to remove a pelican statue from Pelican Harbour. Then there was the issue of a seahorse statue from the Seahorse Motel.
The Buccaneer Inn received a fine. The pirate was removed.
What about a leprechaun? Lynches Landing Bar and Grill in the ’90s had to remove the ice cream cone its wooden leprechaun was holding since it advertised something the restaurant sold. (The leprechaun itself could remain under an amended sign code.)
Then, the business’ shamrock sign found itself in Code Enforcement crosshairs. It was too large and in the right of way, the town said. The owners settled it by cutting the sign in two. The town’s response was that the sign, even post-mutilation, was likely still in the right of way. Lynches eventually moved to St. Armands, where the bifurcated shamrock sign remains inside on the wall.
Today, St. Regis Longboat Key Resort is the latest subject of Longboat’s sign code.
On a groin extending into the Gulf is an arched sign installed by the resort that town leaders say violates the sign code. The issue may end up in magistrate court. Built on a groin Dr. Murray “Murf” Klauber fought with the town to install, the current debate pays an ironic homage to The Colony Beach & Tennis Resort, which stood where St. Regis now is.
THE COLONY COLONIZERS
The Colony wasn’t just a condo complex with a scenic view. It was a world-famous destination for tennis players. The illustrious Nick Bollettieri taught there. Bjorn Borg and Chris Evert played at the Colony. The list goes on.
Herb Field, a founding father of Longboat Key, opened the Colony with no tennis courts and a ninehole golf course in 1954. Six tennis courts were built in the ’60s. Klauber bought it in 1972 and began shaping the resort into his vision: America’s first tennis-centric resort.
That dream was realized, and celebrated. Tennis Magazine named it the No. 1 tennis resort in the United States eight years in a row.
Kay Thayer taught tennis there from 1994 to 1999.
“We had like 10 pros going all day, every day in the heart of the season doing clinics and lessons and exhibitions,” she said.
The resort offered more than tennis. It’s dining room served award-winning cuisine with a Gulf view, and tables decorated with bouquets from the resort’s on-site florist.
But it wasn’t a stuffy five-star resort where a giggling kid may garner a sneer from suit-wearing, low-talking diners. Families vacationed there.
“George (W.) Bush stayed there the night before 9/11. You’ve got that level of clientele, but you’ve also got just people who lived on Longboat who would go there after work and meet for a beer,” said Susan Phillips, who was assistant town manager of the town for 27 years before her retirement earlier this year.
The Colony had its run-ins with the town as many businesses on the island have. One of the more memorable conflicts involved an outdoor, palm-thatch Tiki hut. After the town demanded the demolition of the structure, Colony employees held hands and formed a symbolic circle around the building.
Murf’s presence added to the “casual elegance” of the Colony, as he described it.
“He was always on property, he lived on property. He was always out and about,” Phillips said. “He was friendly, gregarious, just a great guy.”
Vacationers to the Colony became repeat visitors and then residents of Longboat.
“A lot of people would come to Longboat to play tennis, come to the Colony, see how beautiful and great
it was, and they would eventually move here,” Thayer said.
The resort had a large part of shaping the Key into what it is today.
Ray and D’Arcy Arpke, founders of Euphemia Haye, worked at the Colony where Ray was chef. Klauber mentored Lazy Lobster co-owner Michael Garey.
THE GENESIS AND GROWTH OF LONGBOAT
Guy Paschal was the man who organized the town meeting that changed the history of Longboat Key.
The Civic Club president had advocated for years to make the barrier island a town. Talks of zoning changes by the governing counties made Longboat residents antsy, and the population felt powerless in determining the barrier island’s destiny. Across from a newly opened
SLOWING EARLY GROWTH
A consequential decision in 1984 changed the fate of Longboat Key.
In 1965, appraised property values in the town totaled $18.6 million.
In 1969, property values had more than doubled to $45.2 million.
Planning consultant Milo Smith said existing zoning could lead to a population of 65,000, according to Ralph Hunter’s “From Calusas to Condominiums.”
Appraised property values had grown to $838.8 million in 1980.
In 1984, zoning reform that was part of the town’s comprehensive plan was passed by the Town Commission. The zoning change meant any increase in density would need to be approved by residents in a referendum, and many existing structures became nonconforming, meaning new construction to replace aging buildings would need to meet the new, less dense zoning requirements.
“Not that they’re not great places, but we didn’t want to look like Coral Gables or Naples. We didn’t want wall-to-wall density,” Susan Phillips said.
“That decision in 1984 was probably one of the wisest things our town leaders have ever done.”
trailer park, there was a rumor of a public beach. Paschal and company pushed back.
“There are 196 voting freeholders on Longboat Key. Is it any wonder our government feels free to push us around?” Paschal wrote. And the town voted on its independence in November 1955.
The north end of the town was where the town gained its footing. Broadway Street was then Main Street. Most of the residents lived on the north end in The Village. Mar Vista was the bar where incorporation was argued — echoes of the Boston, Philadelphia and New York taverns where colonists plotted their independence from the Crown.
“That was where if you wanted to talk to your neighbors, Mar Vista was that place back in the day. The pub, it was called,” Phillips said.
In 1936, the north end became handicapped when the bridge connecting Longboat Key to Bradenton Beach and the mainland collapsed.
David Miller, now a 70-year Longboat resident, said the north end of Longboat Key was “the end of the world” before that bridge was built. He was just a kid when it finished.
“That was huge for me. Basically, I couldn’t get to school. The bus would only take you to the county line,” Miller said. “Nobody would take me to school, so I rarely made it to school for two years. Lo and behold, they built the bridge, and a bus came across and started taking me to Anna Maria Island Elementary.”
Miller, who took over his father’s marina and boat rental business in 1978, had his own run-ins with the town. First was the Marina’s request to sell gas. The last was a mural on his building.
Between those two disagreements, Miller recalls a time when the town only allowed the flags of Florida, America or another nation’s flag. When he approached the town requesting to make some changes to the marina, they refused to allow it, and Miller used his flagpole to make a statement.
“I flew a flag that said ‘don’t tread on me.’ They were going to fine me if I didn’t have it down in 10 days. I took it down on the 10th day,” he said. “Then I flew a Santa flag. I made the paper again.”
A company called Arvida shaped the south end of the Key. The “Ar” is for Arthur. The “Vi” Vining. The “Da” Davis. Arvida.
A 91-year-old Arthur Vining Davis bought 2,000 acres of land on barrier islands off Sarasota, including large swaths on the south end of Longboat, catapulting the southern part of the Key into an era of growth. What it built wasn’t a surprise to residents paying attention.
“(Arvida) put out a prospectus of what they were going to do, and they followed it to a tee,” said Miller.
Arvida’s work on Longboat included the demolition of John Ringling’s unfinished Ritz-Carlton Hotel, the development of Seaplace, Bay Isles Harbour and a golf course. Arvida was purchased by a management group in 1985.
Now, the Longboat Key Club is an exclusive community on the south end built on the foundations of Arvida’s early development.
Direct democracy is more common in Longboat Key than many other places in America. The town also holds referendums to approve spending greater than $800,000. Phillips said that comes from the insistence of a former commissioner named Rainer Josenhanss.
“The commission was going to build something and they were going to issue a bond to pay for the project. Rainer said, ‘It’s the taxpayers that are going to have to pay this.’ He made a big deal out of it,” Phillips said. “He’s why we have to vote to issue bonds.”
What’s up with the generationslong war on signs? Phillips says it’s not about the signs necessarily.
“It’s the clutter,” she said. “It’s the visual blight. They want and are really more refined, and they don’t need that loudness of billboards. Instead of your eye being drawn to some big, garish sign, your eye is drawn to the natural beauty.”
At-Large Town Commissioner B.J. Bishop said at a recent commission meeting that Longboat doesn’t want to be the Coney Island of Florida.
“Keep Longboat Longboat.” That quote needs no attribution. Every-
the island says it.
one on
Dr. Murray “Murf” Klauber, second from right, shares one last cocktail at The Colony before it closed for good.
A leprechaun at Lynches Pub & Grub holding an ice cream cone, when the restaurant was on Longboat Key, has had its share of controversy.
Herb Field, founder of the Buccaneer Inn and The Colony, shakes hands with former Longboat Key Mayor Will LePage. LePage was the town’s first mayor in 1955.
The demolition of John Ritz-CarltonRingling’s Hotel in 1963.
An aerial view of Longboat Key, looking north from the southern tip.
Lazy Lobster owner Michael Garey called longtime Cannons Marina owner David Miller the “resident historian” of Longboat Key.
File images Susan Phillips played a key role in Longboat Key as the assistant to the town manager for 27 years.
Imageofcourtesy Joesph Steinmetz
THE 7TH ANNUAL
Light up Longboat
St. Regis president speaks to town about sign issue
The Longboat Key Town Commission signaled it may reconsider amending an enforcement code after the resort owner made his case.
November 22, 2025 | 5:00 - 7:00 pm
Karon Family Pavilion Town Center Green - 600 Bay Isles Road
Holiday Spirit Attire Contest ( Kids and Adult ) Best Decorated Vendor Table Contest
Bring your sparkle, your style, and your holiday cheer. Prizes awarded for the best in each category.
Free to the Public! Join us for a festive and fun evening to kick off the holiday season.
The Rotary Club of LBK is collecting unwrapped children’s gifts for Hope Family Services in Bradenton. Donate and receive a raffle ticket for a chance to win a $100 gift certificate.
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CARDINAL STAFF WRITER
The arched sign saga continues. Chuck Whittall, president of Unicorp National Developments, which developed St. Regis Longboat Key Resort, showed up at Town Commission Chambers on Monday to make his case for a metal arched sign code enforcement has taken issue with.
“The reason we decided to build a sign on it is not for advertising, not to generate business for St. Regis. It’s because the four most said words on our pier are ‘Will you marry me?’ We have that said once every other day out there at the St. Regis Hotel,” Whittall said. “It’s not tacky. I think it’s very nice. We’ve had tons and tons of compliments on it. If you go on Instagram, you see hundreds of pictures that have already been posted with it. It doesn’t drive business, it drives memories.”
The metal arched sign on a converted pier had an order to be taken down because it violated the town’s sign code. The town has since given permission to the resort to leave the sign up while a potential code amendment continues in discussion. The Commission voted against instructing staff to draft an amendment to allow the arch at a meeting last week. Whittall said Unicorp’s lawyer, Brenda Patten, told him they did not need a permit from the town to erect the sign and that the permit from the state of Florida sufficed and that he didn’t think the town allowing it would set a precedent for the town because there aren’t any other resorts with piers.
He also gave an update on the resort’s progress of completing steps required to receive a certificate of occupancy from the town.
He said Unicorp has been working to find clear, floodproofing paint that the town’s consultant would sign off on. But he said that it has been a frustrating process with requirements that changed after a new building official started with the town.
He said St. Regis and the town were close to coming to an agreement to proceed with the weatherproofing and receive a permanent certificate of occupancy.
It’s music to Mayor Ken Schneier’s ears, who said at the workshop Monday that the progress on the resort receiving a certificate of occupancy would sway his vote if taken again today.
After 30 minutes of discussion, the Commission decided to put the topic on the agenda of the next meeting on Dec. 8.
“My vote was related very much to the certificate of occupancy,” Schneier said. “If a CO were issued, and it sounds like there’s been a lot of progress made on that, I would change my vote and as one vote of seven I would say yes, let’s ask staff to proceed with the two amendments that would be necessary to leave the arch where it is and move on with the celebrations.”
S.T.
S.T. Cardinal
Longboat Key to Town commissioners.
‘Whew!
Back on Longboat Key. What did I miss?’
over the summer.
Name (and sign) stays
The “up-in-arms” topic of the summer on Longboat Key was whether to change the name of the town’s main thoroughfare: Gulf of Mexico Drive.
The possibility of a road name change became the talk of the town after the Florida Department of Transportation hired contractors in August to remove six street signs marking Gulf of Mexico Drive from traffic arms on the state-maintained road. The move by FDOT was in response to a state law instructing state agencies to update their “geographic materials” to reflect the new
designation of the body of water to the west of Florida as the Gulf of America.
The idea of changing the name was brought to the town by a resident weeks before FDOT’s sign removal. Resident George Reenstra began advocating with commissioners to change the name of the road to Gulf of America Drive in early July.
Town Mayor Ken Schneier asked Town Attorney Maggie Mooney for legal advice on the possibility, but that was the extent of steps taken by the town until FDOT removed the signs in late August.
When that happened, emails began flowing in. A convincing majority of residents who expressed their opinion with the town were against changing the name of the road. And at an over-capacity town commission workshop meeting in October, town leaders unanimously decided to take no action and leave the name of the road the same.
After the town’s decision, FDOT announced in early November that they would be reinstalling the previously removed Gulf of Mexico Drive street signs.
Euphemia Haye closes before resurrection
A fine-dining mainstay of Longboat Key abruptly shuttered its doors to diners in April, leaving residents puzzled and employees scrambling to pay their bills.
After a hand-written note taped to the front door announced the closure in late April, the owner could not be reached. Manatee County court records show a violation of a contract between her and a financing company to provide advanced funds backed by revenues from the restaurant led to a $23,000 judgment against her.
The restaurant has been a popular gathering space on the north end of Longboat Key since Leslie “Les” R. Buntin opened the restaurant named after his grandmother in 1975. Many Longboaters enjoy fond memories of Euphemia Haye, including Rachel and Jason Ghormley, who reacted to the news of the restaurant’s closing by buying and resurrecting it.
“I have some of my most cherished final memories with my parents here,” she said. “We had our last Thanksgiving here with my father. It’s been such a special place to me, and that’s why it’s so important to keep it alive.”
Euphemia Haye has grown with Longboat, starting as a humble 28-seat restaurant and expanding six times, now able to seat 150. In 1990, there was the construction of the Haye Loft upstairs. The new owners said they would not make changes to the restaurant aside from slight tweaks to the wine menu and specials.
Euphemia Haye and Haye Loft is located at 5540 Gulf of Mexico Drive and is open for dinner starting at 5:30 p.m.
Dana Kampa
Rachel Ghormley, new owner of Euphemia Haye with husband, Jason, said they were glad to save the 50-year-old restaurant that holds special sentimental meaning for her family.
Longboat hires new police chief
Longboat Key has a new police chief, Russ Mager, replacing George Turner, who left the department in January. Mager was picked from a pool of 76 applicants. With 29 years of experience in police work, Mager comes from the other coast of Florida via Delray Beach, serving as chief from 2022 until his cross-state departure. He has experience in the SWAT team, as detective, sergeant and lieutenant. But the geography of his previous home may have had
a hand in setting him apart from the 75 other applicants.
“I think it was being in a coastal community in Florida,” said Longboat Key Town Manager Howard Tipton at Mager’s swearing-in ceremony. “He’s got that storm experience, which is helpful with the hospitality experiences that we have out here, and I think, just as interpersonal, I think he’s very engaging kind of very connected, and I think that’ll go a long way here on this island.”
Being visible is a priority for Mager, and he has been showing up at community meetings to introduce himself, putting a face and personality behind the badge and title. Mager also said he wants his department as a whole to be visible by those driving through the barrier island.
“The last thing we want to hear is we hardly see the police,” he said. “I think it makes people feel safe when we’re visible. I think it deters crime.”
Mote Aquarium closes to public
With a new $132 million aquarium near University Town Center now open, Mote Marine closed its City Island facility on July 6.
The Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium on City Island opened in the early 1980s, providing a home to rehabilitating and rescued sea animals while doubling as an aquarium and educational facility with schools taking classes on countless field trips to the building.
Just across the New Pass Bridge from Longboat Key, many Longboaters volunteered at Mote Marine’s City Island facility.
The new aquarium built on 12 acres in East Sarasota opened in October after five years of planning, design and construction.
“When we started, even the land didn’t exist,” said Kevin Cooper, Mote’s vice president for communications and strategic initiatives. “It was a lake (at Nathan Benderson Park), so we had to build the ground upon which the facility was built. It took us a couple of years just to do site preparation.”
Moving manatees, otters, turtles and fish across town and acclimating them to a new environment was a complicated effort that made the opening of the new Mote Science Educa-
tion Aquarium at Nathan Benderson Park a delicate procedure.
Water chemistry, animal health and acclimation were all closely monitored as Mote workers began the process of moving Mote’s exhibits in July, and the new Mote Science Education Aquarium opened in early October to visitors.
Mote will still operate the City Island facility, but with a focus renewed on its research and rehabilitation efforts. Mote has been tightlipped about what exactly that will entail and whether volunteer work will still be available on City Island.
Dana Kampa
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, which includes its main aquarium and marine mammal center on City Island, held its final day open to the public on July 6. Lori Sax
Longboat Police Chief Russ Mager
Florida lawmakers need to be aware of long-term pension strategy
The state pension fund is still in a deficit, and policymakers should avoid financial risks.
ADRIAN MOORE
ZACHARY CHRISTENSEN AND STEVEN VU
Florida has $71.82 billion in debt, making it the 10th most indebted state in the nation.
Sarasota County is over $1.5 billion in debt, the city of Sarasota over $412 million and the Sarasota County School District is $724 million. That’s a lot of debt.
The flagship fiscal proposal from Gov. DeSantis this year is to ask voters to approve an elimination of property taxes.
He has not been clear about what spending cuts would balance out this massive tax cut, not least because property taxes mostly go to local governments, and they will be the ones forced to cut spending.
We are fans of tax cuts, but they must accompany spending cuts or else they just drive up government debt and ultimately cost taxpayers even more than the tax cuts benefit them.
Given Florida’s state and local debts, getting spending under control and reducing debt should probably come before tax cuts.
THE EXAMPLE OF STATE PENSIONS
You can see these particularly clearly with the instructive example of Florida’s pension plan that covers all state workers, teachers, and many local government employees.
A decade ago, the plan was buried in debt, but the state has been digging out of this hole and is 17 years away from eliminating expensive pension debt. But that only happens if the state continues to focus on paying down the debt and is not hit by a recession — so it’s a fragile path.
An analysis by Aon Investments USA Inc. (a market consulting company) commissioned by the Florida State Board of Administrators indicates that the Florida Retirement System is on track to eliminate all unfunded pension liabilities by 2042. Since major reforms on the system in 2011 creating a defined contribution option called the Investment Plan, and the change making this the default retirement plan for most new hires in 2018, FRS has made some progress in closing what was a nearly $40 billion funding shortfall after the Great Recession.
The latest reporting from FRS now gives the system an 83.7% funded ratio (up from 70% in 2009), indicating that the state has made some progress but still needs to stay the course to return to its pre-recession, full funding status.
According to Reason’s recently released Annual Pension Solvency and Performance Report, one bad year in the market (0% returns in 2026) would essentially undo that progress, bringing the system’s unfunded liabilities back to an esti-
FLORIDA HAS A LONG WAY TO GO BEFORE CATCHING UP WITH PENSION PROMISES
Source:
A RECESSION WOULD NECESSITATE MUCH LARGER GOVERNMENT CONTRIBUTIONS
Source: Reason actuarial modeling of FRS. Recessions use return scenarios reflective of Dodd-Frank testing regulations.
mated $40 billion overnight.
If market outcomes play out like the last 20 years, FRS will not be achieving full funding any time soon. If the system achieves an investment return equal to its 24-year average (6.4%) since 2001, it would fall short of the plan’s 6.7% expectation. According to Reason’s actuarial modeling of FRS, this seemingly meager shortfall would extend the date at which it arrives at full funding by another three years.
Another major recession could also significantly derail the system. Reason’s modeling indicates that an investment loss similar to that of 2009 would result in a funding ratio of 62%, and it would take 15 years to get back to today’s funding levels. The full funding date would extend well beyond 2055 in that scenario.
A recession could also drive up the annual costs of FRS, which taxpayers and lawmakers should be wary of. In 2024, employers contributing into the FRS pension on behalf of government employees paid an amount equal to around 12.7% of pay (totaling $5.6 billion statewide annually).
If everything goes as planned, with returns matching the system’s assumptions, this cost will remain relatively stable and drop significantly once the system is free from pension debt.
Under the scenario of a major recession, annual costs will need to rise to as high as 22.9% to keep up with paying pension benefits in full.
When it comes to pensions, policymakers can hope for the best, but they should prepare for the worst. At the very least, they should prepare government pensions to withstand the same pressures that created the costly pension debt in the first place.
Florida lawmakers need to keep these risks in mind as they weigh in
on proposals to grant more benefits. During the 2025 session, the State Legislature saw (and rejected) a proposal to unroll the state’s crucial 2011 reform by again granting costof-living adjustments to all FRS members.
Reason’s analysis of the proposal warned that the move would add $36 billion in new costs over 30 years, and that was only the bestcase scenario.
A scenario in which the system sees multiple recessions over the next 30 years would have driven the estimated costs of the proposed COLA to $47 billion. For a pension fund that is still many years away from having the funding to fulfill existing retirement promises, the last thing it needs is to double down with more potential runaway costs with even more liabilities.
It is safe to say that the idea of increasing pension costs on Florida’s local governments while simultaneously facing the prospect of reduced property tax revenue is ill-advised.
Through prudent reforms, Florida has made some laudable progress in improving the funding of its pension system. They are still several years away from achieving the end goal of all these efforts, and any level of market turbulence would push the finish line out by decades.
Policymakers need to be aware of Florida’s long-term pension strategy and avoid any proposals to add to the costs and risks imposed on taxpayers through new pension benefits.
Zachary Christensen, Adrian Moore and Steven Vu are with Reason Foundation. Moore lives in Sarasota.
“If we are to build a better world, we must remember that the guiding principle is this — a policy of freedom for the individual is the only truly progressive policy.” Friedrich Hayek “Road to Serfdom,” 1944
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Zachary Christensen Steven Vu
Goodwill bookstore announced
Goodwill is coming to Longboat Key, with a bookstore and donation drop-off center set to open at a newly constructed 3,400-square-foot building.
The first Goodwill on the barrier island has been a goal for Goodwill Manasota for years.
“I’ve been trying to get out on Longboat Key since I first got here 13 years ago,” Goodwill Manasota President and CEO Donn Githens said.
Expected to open by the end of the year, both the bookstore and donation center will be open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. They will refresh the shelves with new books multiple times a week, Githens said.
Some local organizations are cautiously preparing for Goodwill. The Lord’s Warehouse, which relies on donations to stock its thrift shop, uses proceeds from sales to help community members in need.
“We’re doing everything we can to mitigate the impact (of the Goodwill) on us,” Lord’s Warehouse Senior Manager Valarie Evanko said.
Githens said he hopes to work together with other charitable organizations to benefit the island.
“Goodwill Manasota has a long history of partnering with other nonprofits in our community,” Githens said. “We have a model that is 123 years old for the collection, production and sale of donated good to fund our mission programs, and some of those mission programs are to help other nonprofits in the community, and we’re always looking for new partners.”
Paradise Center moves back to its birthplace
Paradise Center had an uncertain future earlier this year after a purchase of the building it rented space in led to increased rent.
The $2.1 million purchase of the Tidewell building was a strategic one for Longboat resident Tom Simonian, who said the building’s central location near Publix and Town Hall was alluring. His planned renovations, which will convert the space to a Class A commercial building, led to increased rents for tenants. Paradise Center had a lease extension to allow more time for the organization to find a suitable new home.
In September, the center returned to a new but familiar location for the community hub, Longboat Island Chapel. Paradise Center, which started as an outreach program through the church, branched off on its own to become a nonprofit, which now organizes educational lectures, yoga classes, bridge match get-togethers and much more. The community group is utilizing the church’s second-floor activity space at 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive. The church underwent extensive repairs and renovations after experiencing extensive storm damage from the 2024 hurricanes.
“We weren’t sure where we were going to end up,” said Gail Loefgren, board president of The Paradise Center. “This is where we started years ago, so this is a homecoming to a beautiful space.” Paradise Center posts a calendar of its
Cannons Marina sold Cannons Marina, a presence on Longboat Key since the late ’40s, has new owners.
Started as a fish camp, David Miller’s father purchased the business in 1955 through a handshake deal with founder Ernie Cannon. Miller, who grew up working at the marina, has
Instructor Suzy Brenner leads her “Stretch and Strengthen” class for the first official activity following The Paradise Center reopening on Sept. 29 at Longboat Island Chapel.
classes and programs at its website, TheParadiseCenter.org. Recurring classes include tai chi, meditation, stretch/strengthen, Pilates, yoga, mahjong and bingo. Prices vary from free to $10 for members or $20 for nonmembers.
been a presence on Longboat Key for 70 years — “back when rattlesnakes and wild hogs outnumbered people,” Miller likes to say.
Cannons Marina grew under Miller and Lucile Capo Miller’s leadership. A Grady-White dealer, Cannon’s also rents boats and performs maintenance at its Sarasota Bay-bordering marina.
In September, Ingman Marine announced it had agreed to purchase Cannons and will operate the Longboat Key location as its fifth dealership. The Cannons name will remain, as will all staff except for Miller and Capo Miller. The connection between Ingman CEO Mike Brimer and Cannons was strong even before purchase negotiations began, Capo Miller said. Turning down offers from larger companies and venture capitalists and choosing Ingman Marine as a successor was an easy choice.
“Mike Brimer and I frequently talked and have lunch together and talked about the business,” Capo Miller said. “When the hurricanes came, he was one of the first people to text and offer to help. That’s the level of trust and friendship that we all have.”
Cannons Marina is located on the north end of Longboat Key at 6040 Gulf of Mexico Drive.
Cannons Marina is at 6040 Gulf of Mexico Drive on Longboat Key. The 70-plus-year-old business started as a fish camp in the late ’40s opened by Ernie Cannon.
S.T. Cardinal
Dana Kampa
Broadway Street roundabout moves forward
Design work is underway — again — for a roundabout on Broadway Street and Gulf of Mexico Drive.
Initial plans the town submitted were denied by the Florida Department of Transportation because of the banking of the road. The town went back to the drawing board. Town engineers are using the redrawing of plans as an opportunity to incorporate “complete streets” aspects into the design, which include bike lanes and other pedestrian improvements.
“The community up there has looked for safer access to the beach from the village, and the roundabout will do a great deal to make that a safer intersection,” Commissioner BJ Bishop said. “I’m not a huge fan of roundabouts, but in that area, it works. It
will work very well to mitigate the pedestrian and cycling safety issues.”
In September, the Longboat Key Town Commission approved an agreement to allow the contractor who eventually constructs the circle to perform utility relocation work before paving. The commission also approved a separate agreement with FDOT that states the town will be responsible for landscaping and brick paver maintenance at the roundabout.
Design work for the project is to wrap up by the end of February, and FDOT will advertise for construction bids in July. Expected to cost $5.4 million to $6 million, the town is contributing $1.7 million with FDOT funding the bulk of the cost.
Power poles removed
feet of wiring. Work was divided into four sectors of the island and in four phases, which included service conversions and switching orders from Florida Power and Light. The completion of the project was delayed from the original timeline of threeand-a-half years because of many hiccups, which included supply chain issues of sourcing transformers and hurricanes diverting FPL crews. The process of removing utility lines and boring underground paths along the entire island was intricate and time-consuming process.
“A lot of the construction alone was incredibly complex, very time-consuming, very invasive because it touched every single parcel on the island,” Assistant Town Manager Isaac Brownman said.
But it was well worth it, town leaders say.
“Today really is about looking at the future and saying, we are going down the right path,” Town Manager Howard Tipton said when the last utility pole was removed in June.
“That brilliancy is our future and today is a celebration of a huge part of that.”
The removal of one of the last poles on Longboat Key by Irby Construction.
Courtesy rendering
The proposed roundabout at the intersection of Gulf of Mexico Drive and Broadway Street is intended to slow traffic.
Town Green Library remains on the right path
The Town Green library, a joint effort between the town of Longboat Key and Sarasota County, is moving right along.
With fundraising goals met and exceeded, Sarasota County Director of Libraries Renee DiPilato gave an update to county and town commissioners Friday on where the project stands.
The library to be built on the Town Green is a collaborative effort between the town and county. The town donated the land for the library, and the county will design the library with town input. Di Palato said they picked Orlando’s Borelli + Partners as the architecture firm and Jon F. Swift Inc. will be the construction manager.
Although Sarasota County will fund the majority of the 10,000-square-foot building, Longboat Key raised an additional $3.5 million to add a community space.
“As we secured donations for enhanced spaces for the library and that includes a larger meeting room space, a really lovely exterior space, we had to go back to our architects and our construction firm to amend their contracts,” Di Pilato said. “That is something that we are almost completed with at this point.”
The expectation, DiPilato said, is for the design to be finalized late in summer 2026 and groundbreaking is estimated in early 2027.
ST. ARMANDS FLOODING
Also discussed at the joint meeting was the issue of flooding on St. Armands Key.
The Key looks nice, but is a shell of its former self upon closer inspection, said St. Armands Circle Association Board member Andrew Vac. It’s also vulnerable to flooding.
“All those pipes and the drainage we have is over 50 years old. It needs to be replaced,” Vac said. “We have got 144 possible businesses on St. Armands Circle. Only 101 are open now.”
Vac, St. Armands Resident Association President Chris Goglia and Lido Key Residents Association President Carl Shoffstall all stated the need for funding to protect the shopping and dining district just across the bridge from downtown Sarasota.
“The city has put a lot of money into flowers and palm trees and mulch and there’s an art festival,” Goglia said. “But if you look more closely, you would have seen that there are still many empty storefronts, and on the residential streets there are a lot of cleared lots and abandoned houses.”
Longboat Key Assistant Town Manager Isaac Brownman said the town of Longboat Key “wants to extend our support for the request by the city to improve access and drainage through St. Armands Circle.”
The flooding St. Armands experienced made evacuating and getting back onto Longboat Key more complicated during the 2024 hurricanes.
TO THE SKIES
TOWN GREEN LIBRARY TIMELINE
Sarasota County and the town of Longboat Key have been working on the Town Green library together for years. Some milestones have been achieved and others are expected soon.
MAY 2022: Sarasota County Commission allocates $1 million for development costs of a Longboat Key library.
DECEMBER 2023: The design phase for the library begins with architecture and construction firms contracted.
FEBRUARY AND MARCH
2024: Public meetings are held to gather community input from Longboaters.
2024-PRESENT: Fundraising campaign underway by Town of Longboat Key to pay for community hall and indoor and outdoor event space.
LATE SUMMER 2026: Design for library finalized.
EARLY 2027: Groundbreaking expected.
TRIBUTES
Margot Eagleton 1930-2025
Margot Eagleton passed away peacefully on October 11 at the age of 95.
She was proceeded in death by her husband of 68 years, Jack and her sisters Ruth and Doris and her brother Herb. She is survived by her son Tom, daughter June, grandson’s Wilson and Kyle, greatgrandchildren, Weston, Brynlee and Kasen.
Margot Grace Eagleton was born September 20,1930. She was one of 3 daughters and a brother raised by their German immigrant parents. She was a Lutheran minister’s daughter, so the Lutheran religion and its teachings were important to her. Margot attended Wagner college and
A LETTER FROM NICK VANDENBREKEL, OWNER OF ORION SKY CHARTERS
She married Jack Eagleton in 1953 and soon relocated to the suburbs of Chicago Illinois, where she worked in the lab for Skokie Valley Community Hospital for many years. Margot worked her way up to be the Administrative Lab Supervisor and retired to Longboat Key in 1985. Margot enjoyed summers with her extended family at the Jersey shore in Stone Harbor and she also enjoyed many years of volunteer work at St. Armands Lutheran Church in Sarasota. Her ready smile, quick wit, and easy laugh with be missed by all who knew her. DONATIONS: In lieu of flowers, donations in her name can be made to St. Armands Lutheran Church Sarasota, Fl.
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As the owner and founder of Orion Sky Charters, I am proud of our partnership with The Observer as this year’s sponsor of the “It’s Read Everywhere” Contest. When I started Orion, my mission was clear: to connect people with extraordinary destinations while leaving zero carbon impact. Today, we are one of the very few private air charter services operating at net zero emissions.
From your first call to wheels-up, our private flight experience is built for simplicity, speed, and service. Whether you’re planning a business trip or a spontaneous island getaway, Orion and its sister charter Key West Executive Air Charters makes every journey feel personal, pet-friendly, and completely stress free.
We offer 24/7 concierge support, pet friendly options, and seamless personalized travel - wherever you are headed.
This partnership with The Observer was more than sponsorship - it was a celebration of stories, connection, and a shared vision for a sustainable future. I look forward to continuing this journey with all of you.
Warm Regards and Blue Skies, Nick VandenBrekel
Owner, Orion Sky Charters
S.T. Cardinal
The Longboat Key Town Commission and Sarasota County Commission met at Longboat Key Town Hall on Nov. 7, 2025.
From
Wall Street to Longboat Key: How CAIM Built a Top-Tier Investment Firm with a Personal Touch
Catherine Avery, Founder Catherine Avery Investment Management (CAIM)
Catherine Avery, owner of Catherine Avery Investment Management (CAIM), began her investment journey as an 18 year old New York University finance student while working at Oppenheimer Funds.
“While gaining real work and real life experience on Wall Street, I quickly realized I wanted to manage money for a living,” says Catherine. After earning her finance degree from NYU, she worked at several top investment firms in New York City, including Morgan Stanley, where she was a portfolio manager for nine years.
A Career Built on Experience and Resilience
Catherine explains. “During those difficult times our companies not only continued to pay dividends, but many of them also increased their dividend.” This approach proved especially effective during the 2022 market decline, when CAIM outperformed by as much as 20%.
Recognition for Long-Term Success
CAIM outperformed the market by as much as 20% in 2022.
On the morning of September 11, 2001, Catherine, who was a new mom, left the Morgan Stanley office in the Twin Towers to run an errand, just moments before the attack. Like so many New Yorkers following 9/11, her life was suddenly changed forever. The devastating events of that day inspired her to build a career on her own terms and she began looking into starting her own investment firm. In 2007, CAIM was launched in Greenwich, CT and Catherine has never looked back!
A Proven Strategy That Delivers
How is CAIM different from other investment management firms?
“Our investment strategy is unique in that we look for the best yields possible, combined with dividend growth and share price growth. Seventeen years later, that strategy has held up well in difficult markets,”
MONDAY, OCT. 31
PRIEST BACKS
MERCEDES INTO PALM
1:30 p.m., Exeter Drive
Property damage: An elderly priest backed a Mercedes into a palm tree, prompting police response after a passerby saw the accident after it happened. When police arrived, they found a Mercedes that belonged to an 80-plus-year-old priest, according to vehicle records.
Police made contact with the clergyman who said he was attempting to move the vehicle for the first time in three months and that the surge of power when he put the car in gear overcame his foot on the brake. The car went about 100 feet before it struck the palm, causing significant damage to the bumper and lodging the rear wheel into gravel. With no injuries sustained, police closed the case.
TUESDAY, NOV. 4
CROSS-CANAL WITNESS
6:46 p.m., Yawl Lane
Suspicious incident: Police were called by a concerned resident who saw a flashlight in a house across the canal from what he believed to be a burglary in progress. Police arrived on scene, saw a red pickup parked outside and made contact with a man at the residence who claimed to be a handyman doing work for the property owner. Police called the property owner who confirmed the man was doing handywork on the property. Officers determined it was not a dinner-time heist and closed the case.
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 5
SLEEPING IS FOR BEDS, NOT BEACHES
1:09 a.m., 1050 Longboat Club Road
THURSDAY, OCT. 30
PUTTING OUT FIRES
7:48 p.m., 2111 Gulf of Mexico Drive
Assist other agency: Police were dispatched to a condo beach access across the street from the fire department to investigate a potential bonfire on the beach. Upon arrival, the police officer determined that Tiki torches did not warrant police response. The case was closed.
While Catherine’s long-term career in portfolio management is impressive in itself, she has also received numerous awards, including the PSN Top Guns Manager of the Decade in December 2024. This prestigious award, conducted by independent experts, recognizes investment managers whose strategies have consistently outperformed their benchmarks over a 10-year period. This success has translated into significant growth, with firm assets nearly doubling from 2023 to 2024.
Bringing Expertise to Longboat Key
Four years ago, Catherine moved her successful business from Connecticut to Longboat Key and now welcomes new clients with $1M or more in investable assets, including retirees needing to supplement income, those focused on maximizing long-term growth, and those approaching retirement.
“Each member of our investment team has more than 30 years of investment experience,” says Catherine. “Simply put, CAIM offers extensive investment expertise and individualized strategies combined with a personal touch.”
Schedule your complimentary consultation today at (941) 388-7249 or visit caimllc.com
Suspicious person: Police made a late-night trip to the beach on a “Suspicious parties on the beach, possibly sleeping on the beach” call, according to a police report. When the officer arrived, he discovered a couple sitting on the beach. The officer told the couple the beach was closed and asked where they were staying. The woman told the officer they were staying at the nearby condo complex at her mother’s residence. Police walked them there, made sure they were staying at the aforementioned unit and left. Case closed.
SPINNING TIRES, SLINGING SHELLS
6:18 a.m., 410 Gulf of Mexico Drive
Disturbance: A nighttime security guard called police after a man was spinning his tires in a parking lot of shells, kicking up the material and potentially damaging the guard’s vehicle on purpose. Police arrived and spoke with the building owner, who said the reckless driver was no longer welcome on the property. When the officer made contact with the man, he was informed
he had been trespassed from the property. The man claimed the security guard had committed an assault against him, later sending a video to the officer after he left the property. In a follow-up phone call, the man told the officer he wished to press charges. The officer said if he wished to do so, he would have to return to issue a sworn statement. Then, a female voice told the man to hang up and the phone call abruptly ended. The video the officer received appeared to show that the reckless driver, not security guard, was the primary aggressor and that the disagreement stemmed from the man losing work accounts. Police closed the case.
TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING & HEARING ORDINANCE 2026-01
NOVEMBER 18, 2025 – 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 and Chapter 158, Zoning Code, of the Code of Ordinances of the Town of Longboat Key, as more particularly set forth in Ordinance 2026-01: ORDINANCE 2026-01
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; ADDING SECTION 150.02, ADOPTION OF MANDATORY STRUCTURAL INSPECTIONS; AMENDING CHAPTER 158, ZONING CODE; AMENDING SECTION 158.064, R-6SF (SINGLE-FAMILY HIGH-DENSITY RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT); AMENDING SECTION 158.067, R-6MX (HIGHDENSITY MIXED RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT); AMENDING SECTION 158.068, OI (OFFICE-INSTITUTIONAL DISTRICT); AMENDING SECTION 158.069, C-1 (LIMITED COMMERCIAL DISTRICT); AMENDING SECTION 158.070, C-2 (GENERAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT); AMENDING SECTION 158.071, C-3 (HIGHWAYORIENTED COMMERCIAL DISTRICT); AMENDING SECTION 158.081, INS (COMMUNITY FACILITY INSTITUTIONAL DISTRICT); 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 2026-01 will be held on November 18, 2025, 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 2026-01 Copies of Ordinance 2026-01 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: 11/13/2025
A Century Old Story
A story that began over 100 years ago and is still being written today. Once a beloved landmark, now an enduring icon reborn. Mira Mar is the future of luxury living in Sarasota, grounded in the grandeur of its past, and offering an unparalleled residential experience in the heart of downtown.
One of Sarasota’s few remaining flagships of the great Florida Land Boom of the 1920’s, it is with great pride that we restore the Mira Mar to its rightful place as a gleaming icon of Sarasota.
Rising elegantly above South Palm Avenue, the revived and resplendent Mira Mar presents a limited collection of 70 estate-style residences across two 18-story towers. Each home is designed to the highest standards, with sweeping views, refined interiors, and private access to best-in-class amenities.
Mira Mar is more than a residence — it’s a return to grace.
Hugo’s Sunset Cruise
BY: TIDEWELL HOSPICE
We’ve all experienced how smells, sounds, and tastes can cause memories to come flooding back, making us feel transported to another time or place. Memories lift our spirits and cause us to forget reality - even if just for a few minutes. For Hugo, a 105 year-old veteran in the care of Tidewell Hospice, he cherishes the memories of time spent boating on the open water.
Patty, a social worker on Hugo’s care team, heard him reminisce about how much he loved boating. Given our region’s proximity to the coast, Patty wondered if it would be possible to get Hugo out for one last boat trip. She spoke with Hugo’s daughter, Donna, who agreed that he would be thrilled with the opportunity.
This is where our generous community shines, because funds from the Tidewell Foundation’s “Wishes and Humanitarian Fund” made it possible for Hugo to make the trip that would allow him to enjoy a sunset cruise with Donna. Care Van Transport ensured he was safely delivered to and from the dock where the Oasis Tiki Boat waited. Having been on the water for most of his life, it was a joyous occasion for Hugo. As he relished the salty spray of the sea
and the rhythmic rock of the boat with Donna at his side, Hugo’s pain and feelings of uncertainty about the future subsided.
“We couldn’t have imagined this,” Donna said during the cruise as Hugo shook a tambourine while wearing a festive tropical lei and turquoise sunglasses. His utter delight was evident to everyone on board that afternoon.
Through its philanthropic support of Tidewell Hospice and the not-for-profit Empath Health affiliate organizations in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, and DeSoto Counties, the Tidewell Foundation brightens the lives of patients, their families, and those who are grieving. Compassionate care is elevated through a variety of enriching programs and services, which include coordinating special wishes. Music, art, and pet therapies are additional options for patients and families as they cope with the barrage of emotions the end-of-life journey brings.
Learn more about the Tidwell Foundation and how you can help make wishes come true when you visit our website: www. TidewellFoundation.org or call 941-552-7546.
B Irma Blumenthal died on May 26. She was a fashion icon, always impeccably dressed and never had a hair out of place. She cherished reading books and her daily newspapers. She had boundless energy and was always ready to attend dinners, concerts, lectures and other public events. She was also a fierce advocate for children and for helping those less fortunate. She and her husband, Robert, spent their golden years in their beloved Longboat Key, savoring the beautiful beaches and dreamy sunsets.
Olga “Nene” Mary Bracciano died on June 23. She was the embodiment of kindness, empathy, and unwavering compassion. She dedicated her life to uplifting others, both as a school social worker and as the heart of her family. Bracciano was a devout Catholic and found immense joy in being active in women’s ministry at St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church, as well as Our Lady of the Angels of Lakewood Ranch. Through acts of service, quiet moments of prayer and simple gestures of love, Olga’s life was a testament to giving. Most recently, Olga was a resident at Lakewood Ranch Grand Living, where she remained engaged in exercising, learning and socializing. Even with a full schedule, she still always found time for those she loved most.
C Charles Carey Sr. died on Sept. 12. Formerly of Columbus, Ohio, Carey was a graduate of Worthington High School and Miami University. Charlie is survived by his wife of 35 years, Sallie, his son, Charlie Jr., and his sister, Melissa.
F Joel R. Feidelman died on Oct. 14. He was a retired partner at Fried Frank Law Firm in Washington, D.C. While he was in active practice, Feidelman represented clients in pre-award litigation, contract formation issues, post-award disputes and litigation. He also represented government contractors in various civil proceedings, including Procurement Integrity and Freedom of Information Act disputes, and enforcement matters involving voluntary disclosure and suspension and debarment. He was a former co-chair of the Washington, D.C., Litigation Department and established and led the firm’s government contracts practice before he retired.
A trusted voice in the space, Feidelman had lectured and written extensively on government contract and procurement law for over four decades. He had served in numerous capacities at the National Contract Management Association and was one of the first recipients of the NCMA’s Charles A. Dana Distinguished Service Award. Before joining Fried Frank, he was an officer in the U.S. Air Force. He served as Assistant Staff Judge Advocate for Procurement, Air Force Logistics Command, at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio. He was the beloved husband of Jan C. Feidelman, the father of two daughters, and grandfather of five.
H Richard Demaret Hausman died in his home on Longboat Key. He is survived by his wife, Edna, his daughter Elizabeth Lycke, grandson, Jack, brother Michael and wife Pamela and he is mourned by many friends, associates and neighbors.
SEE IN MEMORIAM PAGE 16
Madeleine “Maggie” Green Brenner died on Sept. 12. Avid tennis players, Maggie and her husband, David Brenner, visited Longboat Key for the first time in the 1960s, purchasing a vacation home soon after. They moved full-time to Longboat Key in 2001. Before turning to tennis, she played in various bowling leagues with her mother in the Philadelphia area, boasting a 160 average. A physical therapist by training, she later became a preschool administrator and volunteered in many capacities, including working at the polls on election day, organizing and working at tennis tournaments, and running a duplicate bridge league. Maggie was also president of the Longboat Key Club Tennis Association in the ’90s, and while living at The Islander Club for 20 years, served as president of the condo association.
LECTURE SERIES
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BRIDGE MAH JONGG CANASTA
SUPREME COURT AMERICAN HISTORY
LITERATURE & POETRY MOVIE & BOOK GROUPS
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FILM FESTIVALS THEATRICAL PERFORMANCES
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LANGUAGES PIANO LESSONS
SUNDAY CONCERTS BROADWAY BIOS
CRAFTS SPECIAL ONE-TIME EVENTS & MUCH MORE!
Many Programs Available on Zoom.
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Robert “Bob” Hettmansperger died on Oct. 23. He was a farmer, spent time as a salesman for Farm Bureau and joined Bob Brodbeck in 1968 as co-owner of Brodbeck Seeds in Wabash, Ind. He married Susie Campbell in 1994. Hettmansperger was an active participant in the Independent Professional Seedsman Association, a member of the Indiana Seed Trade Association Board of Directors, a part of the Indiana Crop Improvement Board of Directors, and a member of the Wabash County Farm Bureau Board of Directors. He served eight years as chairman of Chippewa Farm Bureau. He loved his customers and selling seed. In his younger years, he was a coach of the Chippewa Cub Scouts and Little League Teams. Hettmansperger was a past master of the Tuscan Masonic Lodge F&A.M. in Lagro, and a member of the Hanna Masonic Lodge, where he was a 33rd degree mason. He was a member and deacon of Bachelor Creek Church of Christ. Hettmansperger enjoyed hunting and fishing, and especially loved his children, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren.
Dennis Timothy McCarthy died on July 14. McCarthy proudly served his country as a C-130 pilot in Vietnam. He loved sharing tales from his time in the Air Force and imparted the traditions, songs and football cheers to his family and friends. After the Air Force, McCarthy became an oil trader and broker, first for Mobile Oil, then Bruggemann, before starting his own business with Caden Commodities, which merged with First National Oil Brokers in 1990. He retired in 2015 and spent his time playing countless rounds of golf and keeping up with his busy kids and grandkids, keeping them up way past bedtime watching all
the latest movies and introducing them to favorites like “The Godfather.” Second to his love for his wife, Deborah, was his love for golf. He was lucky enough to play many top courses in the world and proudly scored five holes in one over his lifetime. He was a longtime member at Silvermine Golf Club before moving to Florida, where he was an active member at the Longboat Key Club. He imparted the love of the game to his children and grandchildren, and anyone who ever played with Dennis will never forget his famous 10-foot gimme putts and endless supply of mulligans.
Ora Mendels died on June 23. Ora was born in Jerusalem in 1936, grew up in South Africa, and immigrated to the U.S. in 1964. She lived in the Philadelphia area and started visiting Longboat Key over 40 years ago, eventually retiring here. She met Joe on a beach in Cape Town, and many years later, they were able to enjoy life together on the beach in Longboat. Mendels was a journalist in her early adult years and later wrote several novels, among them Mandela’s Children and Family Wars. She was committed to the fight against apartheid in South Africa in her youth and social justice throughout her life. She was passionate about tennis, chocolate, cooking, her rose bushes and orchids, books, walks on the beach with her husband, and most of all her family and friends.
O Pamela O’Halloran-Blevins died on Oct. 21. She taught at Riverfield Country Day School in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with her husband, Randall Scott Blevins. She was an amazing woman who gave her time and energy to everyone around her. She cared deeply about people and our planet and was a tremendous advocate for both. Her extensive work both professionally and personally touched the lives of many people, whether it was in the classroom or volunteering for an environmental organization or as an advocate for people with Williams Syndrome.
Maxine Joyce Ohlmann Groen died on May 14. At the age of 16, she went to Calvin College to study nursing, working as a nanny to pay for room and board. After graduating, she worked as a nurse at Blodgett Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan; as the official nurse for one of Henry Ford’s factories; and for private families. Later, she received a scholarship to do a master’s degree in nursing at Columbia University in Manhattan. She loved her time in New York City. She accepted a call from the church mission society and set out as a sin-
gle woman to work as a head nurse for MKAR Christian Hospital in Nigeria. She and her family eventually settled in Wheaton, Illinois. After 20 years, they worked with local Congolese partners to create a Residency Program in Goma, Eastern Congo. It began as Doctors On Call for Service, with training provided by visiting doctors from the US. It is now a fully accredited program and an independent hospital called HEAL Africa, run entirely by local doctors and its graduates serve all over Congo. During this time, Macky and Paul moved to Longboat Key, where they were active in the local church and, of course, sang in the choir. In 2008, Paul and Macky officially retired to Plymouth Harbor.
SElaine Stein died on June 8. During WWII, at what is now the WrightPatterson Air Force Base near Dayton, Ohio, she met and later married Robert A. Stein. They were happily married for 73 years. Stein designed three beautiful homes between Dayton and Longboat Key; they were well-admired early examples of Mid-Century Modern interior and exterior design.
Carole Salmon died on May 31. She worked as a registered nurse in New York and Pennsylvania for over 20 years and still has her active nursing license. Salmon also earned her HAM Radio License (WA2VVJ) and traveled to many events with her husband, William E. Salmon. Born in Jamaica, New York, on April 3, 1943, she was a pillar of strength and love for her family and was an active member of her community. Salmon retired to Longboat Key with her husband in 1996. There, she embarked on a new journey as a licensed Realtor selling luxury properties alongside her husband at Michael Saunders & Co. for more than 10 years. Carole was an active member of the Women’s Guild at St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church, where her focus was on charitable work, organizing events and helping the community in need. She volunteered at The Literary Council of Sarasota Inc., as a tutor, helping young women prepare for job interviews and adjust to being self-sufficient.
She served as a Eucharistic minister and played the organ at the church for services and gatherings. She also volunteered her time giving out food to the homeless at St. Vincent de Paul Society. In retirement, Salmon found great joy playing piano and painting in her art studio at home in Longboat Key. Her pieces ranged from landscapes to abstract, and she was commissioned for her beautiful work. Salmon cherished her time with her husband and family. She encouraged her children by fostering a supportive and nurturing environment where they felt valued and loved. She was kind, generous and always had a listening ear or a quick-witted response that always kept everyone smiling.
Jim D. Syprett died Sept. 13. After earning his undergraduate degree from Vanderbilt University in 1963 and his law degree from the University of Florida in 1965, he moved to Sarasota. He began his fabled legal career with the Law Offices of Dick Lee. In 1968, he and John W. Meshad co-founded the Syprett Meshad Law Firm, which proudly carries on his legacy of excellence in the practice of law today. He was a natural in the courtroom — a charming Southern accent, a gifted and prolific storyteller, and an unequaled command of the law and the details of his case — all of which made him a formidable, but respected foe. He also served as a mentor to many young lawyers throughout the Bar and was a most trusted and reliable colleague to the lawyers in his firm. In 2023, the Senior Counsel of Sarasota County presented Syprett with the Esteemed Colleague Award. He was a longtime advocate for the Family Counseling Center and the Cancer Support Community. He often counseled and comforted men diagnosed with prostate cancer. He served on the board of the Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation for over 10 years and was elected as its president for three terms. He was most proud of his part in planning the new state-of-the-art Jellison Cancer Institute. His commitment to SMHF earned him the admiration of fellow board members and hospital administration.
W
Ann Lord Weber died Oct. 6. She and her late husband, Norm Weber, were married in 1983 and lived in Maplewood, N.J.
Ann Lord Weber and Norm spent plenty of time at their vacation homes in Oak Ledge, Lake Sunapee, New Hampshire and Bird Key, Sarasota. For the past 20 years, they called Bird Key their fulltime home, where they continued to enjoy boating, car shows, water activities, tennis and socializing with good friends. She taught piano to many students over the years and was an accomplished pianist. She loved opera, classical music, choir music and watching old movies. As a gifted musician, she volunteered her time to play piano at church and special events, especially at the Bird Key Yacht Club.
Jeremy T. Whatmough died on July 21. He graduated from Harvard University in 1956 with a degree in economics. During college summers, Whatmough worked on the Ford assembly line; like his degree, this prepared him for his employment in the automotive industry. Ford right recruited Whatmough out of college and enjoyed many years with them. After his tenure with Ford, American Motors recruited Whatmough and ultimately oversaw the Jeep Division. Even though Whatmough was a devoted automotive person, Conrail, a freight railroad, needed his help and expertise. He answered the call and was one of a handful of people who saved the company, which then went on to become publicly traded. While at Conrail, Whatmough returned to Harvard to complete the Advance Management Program in 1986 and most enjoyed overseeing the Conrail Police Department. He retired from Conrail in 1994, but that did not last long. Whatmough then set off for Pittsburgh and ultimately retired for good from MK Rail. Once Whatmough retired to Longboat Key, he became involved in the community through the Longboat Key Garden Club, Planning and Zoning Board, Kiwanis Club of Longboat Key, commissioner and mayor. Whatmough was also active in the Harvard and Ivy League Clubs and All Angels by the Sea Episcopal Church. He and his family moved to the Lakewood Ranch full time in the mid-2000s.
Woody Wolverton was an avid pilot even late into his life, piloting aircrafts high above Longboat Key into his 80s. Woody Wolverton died Aug. 11. He was on the board of zoning adjustment before serving on the town commission from 1991 to 1993, and he was president of the Kiwanis Club. He’s also a two-time Oklahoma Sooners national champion. He was in Hawaii during the Dec. 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor. He traveled to China, Vietnam and France to name a few. In addition to being a talented pilot, he also excelled at horseback riding.
He had been flying since the late ’50s. He served his country as a pilot in the Army for eight years. Owning a plane of his own was a lifelong dream fulfilled.
Starting his post-Army career running a furniture store in Oklahoma, he packed up and moved down south after the stock market crashed in the fall of 1987. He built homes, was a financial advisor, then became a stockbroker.
He died at his home on Longboat Key at 91 years old. His impact on the community he moved to in the late ’80s with $25 in his pocket is hard to overstate.
returned many times. She and her husband, Rudy Yessin, first visited Longboat Key on their honeymoon more than 70 years ago. She lived to the age of 95.
Around town, he was known as Dr. Jim. Earning his medical degree in 1977, he specialized in psychiatry during his residency at Duke University, which he completed in 1982. He then returned to Wisconsin, where he met his future wife, Deborah Di Carlo. He was a regular at Town Hall, attending almost every commission meeting. When he returned, Di Carlo said he would type up a recap of the actions taken at the meeting and send it out in a newsletter to residents of his neighborhood, Sleepy Lagoon. He will be remembered for his contributions to the community and for brightening the rooms he was in with his talented vocal range.
YJean Brent Warren Yessin died on May 25. She was active in the Episcopal Church in Frankfort, the Daughters of the American Revolution, Red Cross, and she chaired the Central Kentucky Kidney Foundation for many years. A member of Tri Delta sorority, she graduated from the University of Kentucky in 1951, after which she and three classmates sailed on the “Queen Elizabeth” for a grand tour of the recently liberated continent. She
Jim Whitman died Sept. 7. The “songmeister” of the Kiwanis Club of Longboat Key grew up in the home of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame — Cleveland. He was never shy in sharing his musical prowess with the community. He would sing at Kiwanis meetings, perform at the annual Lawn Party and get on stage with Eddie Tobin at Euphemia Haye. Music was a huge part of his life.
WORSHIP directory
Luther Archibald Youngs III died on May 17. He earned his medical degree in New Orleans and specialized in pathology. Youngs joined the U.S. Navy and practiced pathology at naval hospitals across the U.S., including the Bethesda Naval Hospital, and served at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology in Washington. After retiring from the Navy as a captain, he and Andy settled in Lakeland, Florida, where they raised five children. While in Lakeland, he continued his career as a pathologist and practiced there for 35 years. Youngs pursued many passions in his life, many involving speed. He loved automobiles, especially his Morgan. He also sailed, was a pilot (including aerobatics), collected trains, and was a history buff. Luther rebuilt and piloted a Stearman, a biplane used for military training during World War II, now housed in a military museum. At retirement, Luther and Andy moved to Longboat Key, where they were both involved with St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church. He continued his lifelong love of reading, which he still enjoyed at age 90.
YOUR NEIGHBORS
The view leaves you shaken, not stirred
IAN SWABY STAFF WRITER
Doug Staley stood reading the Sarasota Observer amid the Schilthorn, a mountain in Mürren, Switzerland, featured prominently in one of James Bond’s daring missions, in the film “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” (1969).
However, as he and his wife, Sabrina Staley, set out on their vacation, they didn’t approach the Observer’s It’s Read Everywhere photo contest with the mindset of Agent 007.
Although they were aware of the contest, they wanted the picture to happen authentically, Doug Staley said.
They created the photo that readers voted, out of a total of 78 submissions and 785 votes, as the winning image.
It began at the airport, where Doug Staley picked up a copy of the Observer and placed it in his bag, prepared to read about the local happenings back home once their “trip of a lifetime” was underway.
The two-week trip, which included an intinerary in Switzerland and Italy, followed stops during his service in the United States Army more than 30 years ago.
He and Sabrina were first married while stationed in Neu-Ulm, Germany, where she taught the base’s American children of those families for the Department of Defense.
However, the couple had always wanted to return to Europe to visit other areas they hadn’t had the opportunity to see yet.
“I think everybody should travel and have that opportunity, and we definitely wanted to get back, so this was an opportunity for us to kind of get back and do some more traveling, and explore areas that we hadn’t done before,” he said.
It was while they were in Mürren, a mountain village in the Swiss Alps that was their second stop in Switzerland, that the photo happened.
The couple reached the hotel first by train and then by cable car. (The village of Mürren is car-free.) After enjoying breakfast, they headed onto a balcony area at the hotel.
“I pulled it out and said, ‘Let me take a look at what’s in the Observer,’” he said.
Staley enjoyed taking in the view, while looking over the information from back home.
As he did so, Sabrina Staley began taking photos, and asked him to move a little so she could better capture the mountain backdrop, which includes (out of view of the camera) the Piz Gloria restaurant that was a filming location for the movie.
If the scene doesn’t recall the James Bond film, you might compare it to the sights of the Alps in “The Sound of Music,” another film Staley mentions, which is set on the other side of the Alps in Austria.
“It’s like you’re looking at the masterpiece of God that he created; it was absolutely breathtaking,” he said. “It’s just so beautiful, so picturesque. The colors were so vibrant, the flowers, even the snow on the mountains that was there, everything, it just seemed so much more vibrant.”
However, the story doesn’t end with the Staleys enjoying the trip of a lifetime, along with becoming the winners of the It’s Read Everywhere contest.
In addition to receiving a $500 prize, the winner chooses a charitable organization to auction off a private flight by Orion Sky Charters, with room for up to four friends, to either Key West or Miami.
As executive director of the Child Protection Center in Sarasota, Staley plans to auction off the prize at the organization’s fundraiser gala, Blue Ties and Butterflies.
The event on April 10, 2026, at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, will raise funds to help the organization’s mission of prevention, intervention and treatment for child abuse.
“It’s exciting because, what an incredible giveback opportunity from the Observer, and then for the nonprofit, so I’m excited about the opportunity for our nonprofit to raise significant dollars through the generosity of the Observer, to help our cause,” he said.
He said staff has already been in touch with Orion Sky Charters about putting the experience together.
“Somebody gets an incredible experience with the private flight, and then it helps our bottom line and
This year’s winner of It’s Read Everywhere contest enjoyed the ‘trip of a lifetime’ and showed that the Observer is as well-traveled as Agent 007.
TO ENTER Snap a photo of you on vacation holding your Observer, then submit your photo online at YourObserver.com/ ItsReadEverywhere. Stay tuned for this year’s prize, and happy travels!
our mission, as well,” he said. He said with all of the places the Observer has traveled, he’s grateful that people chose the couple’s photo.
“There were incredible photos ... ” he said. “Just going through and looking how far the Observer traveled is just mind-boggling ... Obviously, a lot of people agreed with the backdrop, voting for the photo, so we’re very appreciative.”
WINNER
SWISS BLISS: Douglas Staley reads the Sarasota Observer in Mürren, a beautiful Swiss mountain village, at the site of where the 1969 James Bond movie “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” was filmed.
ALOHA: Sophia and Melanie Tabb enjoy the great view of the Napali coast with their East County Observers at Kalalau Lookout in Kauai, Hawaii.
BONJOUR: Medge and Michael E. Jaspan with the Longboat Observer at the Eiffel Tower in Paris
Key honors vets, near and far
This week marks a multifold special occasion for Longboat Key residents as they honored Veterans Day, the town’s 70th anniversary and the 250th anniversary of the establishment of the United States Army. Town Manager Howard Tipton welcomed attendees to the Town Center Green on Nov. 8.
“Such a dual celebration is a rare and significant event, and it allows us to reflect on our past, cherish our present and look forward to a promising future,” he said.
The event featured several speakers with a history of military service.
Town of Longboat Key Public Works
Director and retired U.S. Army Reserve
Lt. Col. Charles Mopps led the Pledge of Allegiance and the national anthem. Mopps was a military police officer and served in the U.S. Army Reserve for more than 22 years, deploying to Bosnia in 1997 and mobilizing as a company commander and battalion operations officer from 2006 to 2008. He also deployed to Afghanistan in 2011, Tipton said when introducing him. He retired in 2016.
“Included in his many military honors is the Bronze Star, Afghani-
HOW TO DONATE
The Longboat Key Rotary is accepting donations to support its veteran outreach services. To contribute, go to LongboatKeyRotary.org.
For more on Goodwill’s veteran services, visit ExperienceGoodwill.org/ VeteransServices.
stan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and many other service honors,” Tipton added.
Steve Branham, retired U.S. Coast Guard rear admiral and current town commissioner, also offered a speech honoring the community’s veterans. His coast guard service spanned 37 years, Tipton said.
“We are here to honor our military veterans, and to remember their service, dedication and sacrifice to ensure and preserve the freedom we are so privileged to enjoy every day,” he Branham.
After recognizing the veterans in attendance, Branham also took a moment to thank the loved ones of those service members for offering critical support.
As the festivities came to a close, the community partner presenter, the Rotary Club of Longboat Key, gave a contribution of $7,500 to the Manasota Goodwill branch for its veteran outreach services.
— DANA KAMPA
Virginia and David Driscoll join Bob Geraci
Steve Branham, retired U.S. Coast Guard rear admiral and current town of Longboat Key commissioner, speaks at the combined Veterans Day and town anniversary celebration on Nov. 8 at the Town Center Green.
Sarasota High School Color Guard members Madisen Dwarika, Lindsey Nelson, Cyleigh Harrington and Camila Cavazos prepare to start off the celebration of Veterans Day and the town of Longboat Key’s 70th anniversary.
Bill Hadley adds his voice to those singing the military service songs.
Photos by Dana Kampa Michael J. Ross & Company closes out the Veterans Day and 70th anniversary celebration.
upcoming
Springing into season
Longboat Key Garden Club welcomes back members.
After taking a moment to celebrate their win of the Non-Profit Organization of the Year Award from the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce, members of the Longboat Key Garden Club turned their attention to future events at their welcome-back luncheon on Nov. 5 at Café on St. Armands.
Garden club President Melanie Dale told members there will be plenty of opportunities to get involved with the organization this season, especially with ongoing beautification projects.
Last year, club members volunteered their time to help fix up public spaces that needed sprucing and replanting following last year’s hurricanes.
Susan Phillips, past president and a main organizer of the beautification efforts, said their priorities include finishing work at Bicentennial Park and replanting foliage around the town of Longboat Key’s welcome signage. She also hopes they can make progress on improving Joan M. Durante Community Park.
“We’ll need a lot of help this year,” Dale added.
However, volunteer work isn’t the only item on the agenda this season. There will be plenty of opportunities to join informative workshops, nature hikes and prep for the holidays.
Dale was pleased to note the club already had several new members at the welcome event. The club is planning an official reception for new members on Jan. 13.
— DANA KAMPA
Photos by Dana Kampa
Ann Sears, Cathy Bishop and Linda Ulrich
Longboat Key Garden Club President Melanie Dale said the cookbook members recently assembled makes an excellent holiday gift and is available at the J. McLaughlin in the Publix plaza on Longboat.
Denise Henning and Denise SchwemmerDebra Sauers, Mimi Dolan, Sharon Meier, Melanie Dale and Patricia Geldermann discuss the season’s
events at the Longboat Key Garden Club’s welcome-back luncheon on Nov. 5 at Café on St. Armands.
Back on the green
From fairway to runway, members of The Women’s Nine Hole Golf Association enjoyed a full itinerary with their Nov. 6 opening luncheon at the Longboat Key Club.
President Lynn McBrier welcomed back the group of golfers for a mixedformat scramble, luncheon and fashion show that afternoon.
She thanked all the members who played roles in organizing the season’s upcoming activities, but especially those serving on the steering committee.
“Thank you to those who have stepped forward this year,” she added. “Your commitment to help is greatly appreciated. You’re giving service to something that is a valuable part of the lives of the Key Niners. It is truly an honor to be your chair. Let the games begin.”
Members are already looking forward to the “Frosty Frolick” festive tournament on Dec. 9 with the Women’s Golf Association. Swing for the Cure will take place on Feb. 24.
2025-26 OFFICERS
The Longboat Key Club Women’s Nine Hole Golf Association includes the following leaders this year: n President: Lynn McBrier n Vice President: Carolyn Christian n Co-Treasurers: Carolyn Christian
Attendees applaud winners of a mixed-format scramble on Nov. 6 at Longboat Key Club.
Michelle Papier is all smiles while sporting her golf set.
Bunny Skirboll, Katheine Kalin, Eileen George and Fremajane Wolfson
Lynn McBrier, president of the Longboat Key Club Women’s Nine Hold Golf Association, dazzles during the fashion show at the opener luncheon on Nov. 6.
The Longboat Key Club Key Niners gathered for a bit of friendly competition at their opener tee off for The Women’s Nine Hole Golf Association on Nov. 6.
Photos by Dana Kampa
Temple works against antisemitism
The Longboat Key community is set to host what organizers hope will be an engaging forum on antisemitism this week at Temple Beth Israel.
StandWithUs is slated to lead the talk on Nov. 16 at the temple. The 501(c)(3) is an international, nonpartisan educational organization aiming to inform, empower and inspire students and the wider community to combat antisemitism.
Featured speakers from StandWithUs include Carly Gammill, director of legal policy, and Julie Paris, mid-Atlantic regional director.
IF YOU GO
ANTISEMITISM SEMINAR
When: 2 p.m. on Nov. 16
Where: Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road
Tickets: Free and open to the public, though advance registration is required
They explained that they hope to have a positive impact on the entire community through their work.
Paris noted that the seminar is scheduled just after the seventh anniversary of when a gunman killed 11 people at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh.
“This is a very solemn day for our community, and I think it is an important day for us to be speaking,” she said. “Unfortunately, since that time, we have seen a dramatic rise in antisemitic incidents across the political and ideological spectrum.”
Info: Call 941-383-3428 or email Office@LongboatKeyTemple.org.
bat it. That means calling it out wherever we see it and being able to educate our community on telling their own story.”
Audience members will have the opportunity to submit written questions.
Arlene Levy, Esther Garfinkel, Karen Gary and Elaine Kaufman assisted on the part of Temple Beth Israel in bringing about the seminar.
She continued, “For us at StandWithUs, it is really important to be able to define and identify antisemitism in order to com-
To learn more visit StandWithUs.com.
— DANA KAMPA
Wondering about: Monthly fees - what’s covered and what’s not?
budget right now?
Sarasota’s condo market is growing fast, and it pays to have someone who knows the buildings, the developers, and the best opportunities before they hit everyone’s radar.
Arlene Levy and Ralph Liebstein helped bring the seminar to Temple Beth Israel.
Temple Beth Israel of Longboat Key
Dana Kampa
TOY
Noon
BEST BET
TUESDAY, NOV. 18
INTERFAITH THANKSGIVING SERVICE
for
to support Children First through Nov. 27. The store is also donating 10% of clothing sales to the organization. Call 941-960-2071 with questions.
NORDIC WALKING
11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at the Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Certified instructor Enrico “Sam” DiGiammarino Jr. leads an outdoor Nordic walking class. The third and final class in the series takes place Nov. 21. RSVP at 941383-6493.
PARKINSON’S SUPPORT
1-2 p.m. at the Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive. The center offers a free support group for those with Parkinson’s disease. Call 941-383-6493.
SATURDAY, NOV. 15
KIWANIS PANCAKES
8-11 a.m. at Lazy Lobster, 5350 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring bacon, sausage, eggs, biscuits and gravy, fresh fruit, and all-you-can-eat pancakes, plus coffee, tea, juice and soft drinks. Cost is $20 per adult; $12 per child. Access to the build-your-own bloody mary bar is an additional $15. Proceeds benefit Family Promise of Sarasota-Manatee. Book advance tickets at 941-383-0440 or LazyLobsterOfLongboat.com.
CHRISTMAS BAZAAR
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church, 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Ring in the holiday season with a market featuring handmade ornaments, trees, wreaths and other holiday decorations, along with baked goods. The bazaar will also be open following the Sunday service.
MEET ARTIST JANET PEAVY
11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Three Island Monkeys, 5620 Gulf of Mexico Drive.
5 p.m. at St. Armands Key Lutheran Church, 40 N. Adams Drive. Join the Interfaith Ministerium of St. Armands and Longboat Keys for the 45th annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Worship Service. Featuring music from an all-faiths choir led by Michael Bodnyk and a Thanksgiving sermon from Rabbi Jessica Spitalnic Mates. Free on-site parking available. Nonperishable food donations will go to Harvest House.
Artist Janet Peavy will be sharing her ocean-centric work at a meet-andgreet event to include light bites and beverages. Visit ThreeIslandMonkeys.com.
A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC
6-9 p.m. at St. Armands Key Lutheran Church, 40 N. Adams Drive. The church is hosting a concert and annual foundation gala. Featuring the musical talents of artist Gavin Klein, a specialist in the organ and harpsichord. Tickets are $50 per person and include the cocktail hour, concert and three-course seated dinner. Call 941-366-1234 or visit SAKLC.com to register.
SUNDAY, NOV. 16
STANDWITHUS SEMINAR
2 p.m. at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. The temple’s Israel Committee and Social Action Committee are sponsoring a free community seminar on addressing antisemitism and empowering Jewish neighbors. StandWithUs experts Carly Gammill and Julie Paris will share their expertise. Light refreshments to follow the program. Registration required. Call 941-383-3428 or email Office@ LongboatKeyTemple.org.
THURSDAY, NOV. 20
CIRCLE THE DATE
All day on St. Armands Circle, 300 Madison Drive. Participating local businesses will be offering specials and promotions as part of the monthly Circle the Date celebration.
YOUR CALENDAR
Ask Bruce Myer anything about Longboat Key over the past 45-plus years, and he’ll probably know the answer—and tell you a story about it.
Bruce’s roots in real estate run deep. His great-grandfather purchased 5,000 acres of land in Central Indiana during the Great Depression, instilling a respect for land and opportunity that carried through generations. Decades later, Bruce’s grandparents discovered Longboat Key. First they vacationed at Sands Point and then purchased a two-bedroom residence at The Islander Club in 1970 for $37,500—a decision that firmly planted the family in Longboat’s story. “The Longboat Key Towers were just too expensive at $60,000,” they laughed when Bruce asked why they chose The Islander Club.
After graduating from DePauw University in 1979, Bruce moved to the island, working at the Longboat Key Club where he maintained tennis courts and assisted in the pro shop—a great experience that deepened his love for both the game and the community. In 1981, he joined Arvida, the island’s primary landowner and developer, where he met Chip Anderson, Arvida’s Sales and Marketing Director. Chip asked Bruce about his future plans and encouraged him to consider real estate. “It was an unbelievable beginning to my real estate career,” Bruce recalls.
Bruce’s family history became his secret advantage. From his greatgrandfather’s land investments to his grandparents’ early condo purchase, Bruce grew up with lessons in vision and value. Bruce knows the importance of keeping up on everything from which buildings
predate FEMA regulations to which communities are best for boaters, pet owners, or pickleball enthusiasts— helping clients turn a property purchase into a lifestyle choice and helping sellers maximize the value of their property.
“Longboat is special because it’s residential, with great golf, great tennis, and very few short-term rentals. It keeps the island private and peaceful,” he says.
More than four decades and over a billion dollars in career sales later, Bruce remains deeply connected to the island and its evolution. “When I started, there were only three condominium communities on Longboat Club Road and only 2 communities in Bay Isles. Now there are 16. Arvida played a key role in developing many of the island’s communities, including tennis and golf amenities,” he recalls. That experience gives Bruce the insight to connect buyers with their ideal home and help sellers showcase their property’s true value.
Now, Bruce is writing a new chapter, joined by his son, Chase Myer. They have rebranded as The Bruce Myer Group – BMG®. Following the same guidance that Chip Anderson once gave Bruce, Chase has honed his skills, gaining the insights, experience, and dedication that have long defined the family’s career. Together, they are shaping the next generation of BMG®, blending legacy with fresh perspective.
“I’m not going anywhere,” Bruce grins. “But it’s great knowing the next generation of Myer is ready to keep the Longboat Key story going.” Together, Bruce and Chase bring clients more than expertise—they bring a connection to the island, its people, and the lifestyle that makes Longboat Key unique.
Bruce Myer Group – BMG® turns experience into opportunity.
Longboat Shores home tops week’s sales at $2 million
ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR
Jason and Nancy Wilson, of Sarasota, sold their home at 4 Winslow Place to Jeffrey Holloran, of Longboat Key, for $2 million. Built in 1963, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,975 square feet of living area. It sold for $1,075,000 in 2019.
EMERALD HARBOR
Pamela Haire Scott, trustee, and Gary Scott, of Sarasota, sold the home at 6011 Emerald Harbor Drive to Brian Logun and Loretta Lynn Logun, of Marietta, Georgia, for $1.75 million. Built in 1973, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,929 square feet of living area. It sold for $369,000 in 1999.
COREY’S LANDING
Losacco Family Limited Liability
Co. LLC sold the home at 3467 Bryon Lane to Thomas Patrick Schiesl and Margaret Schiesl, of Cedarburg, Wisconsin, for $1,075,000. Built in 1989, it has three bedrooms, twoand-a-half baths, a pool and 2,227 square feet of living area. It sold for $1,075,000 in 2022.
SLEEPY LAGOON PARK
Robert Fritz II and Jami Fritz, trustees, of Hales Corner, Wisconsin, sold the home at 749 Penfield St. to Media Naranja LLC for $917,000. Built in 1968, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,905 square feet of living area. It sold for $237,500 in 1995.
LONGBEACH REVISED
Glen Fabian and Lori Fabian, trustees, of Sarasota, sold the home at 600 Fox St. to Marcella and Robert Bowell, of Rockville, Maryland, for $810,000. Built in 1964, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 1,427 square feet of living area. It sold for $800,000 in 2021.
LONGBEACH
Bonnie Dallinger, of Bradenton, sold her home at 640 Fox St. to Timothy Hancz, of Longboat Key, for $535,000. Built in 1965, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,248 square feet of living area. It sold for $240,000 in 2012.
BUTTONWOOD COVE
Lothar Maier, of Rockville, Maryland, sold his Unit 202 condominium at 3540 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Thomas and Traci Ann Rice, of Louisville, Kentucky, for $530,000. Built in 1980, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,284 square feet of living area. It sold for $206,000 in 1997.
ONLINE
See more transactions at YourObserver.com.
TOP BUILDING PERMITS
order of dollar amounts.
Photos by Dana Kampa
The home at 6011 Emerald Harbor Drive sold for $1.75 million.
Tommy Bahama
DANA KAMPA STAFF WRITER
The navy blue awning of Tommy Bahama is one of the first sights to greet visitors to St. Armands Circle from the south end, and the store is abuzz with new energy since reopening after being devastated by last year’s hurricanes.
The combined restaurant and retail location made its gradual return this fall, hosting soft reopening events on Sept. 23 and 24. It officially rang in a grand reopening the evening of Nov. 5 at the new site, which was the previous spot of the Shore restaurant on St. Armands.
Tommy Bahama CEO Doug Wood joined in the celebration, and he shared what he appreciates about the reworked space.
“I was here the week after the hurricanes last year, and when you see the devastation to the community and what it’s done to people, to be able to think, ‘In a year’s time, we could come back and do something pretty magnificent,’ it means a lot,” he said. “I’m really proud of our company and all the hard work and effort it took to get here. What we’re serving up, I think people are going to love.”
While reestablishing essential utilities and services was a priority on the islands, getting restaurants and shops open again also plays an important role in reminding residents why they love the area, Wood said.
Tommy Bahama has been operating for 30 years, and its second location opened just across the Circle in 1996.
Wood said the revamped space should still provide longtime patrons with the experience they’ve come to love. But there are certain new design aspects he thinks they will enjoy, as well, from the roof that opens on two sides of the restaurant to the amberlit bar area.
expansive bar is unique to this location, as is the hand-painted sculpture on the back patio depicting the brand’s iconic marlin.
“All those parts come together to make this place really special,” he added.
He noted that only four locations in the United States sell furniture, and the store at 371 St. Armands Circle, its original Circle location, would be the fifth.
“When people come here, they want the character,” he said. “From a design standpoint, we said, ‘We have to show them an elevated Tommy Bahama, but with a nod to who and where we are.’”
General Manager Ryan McNulty shared that sentiment and his excitement for the future of the stores on St. Armands. He typically manages operations in Naples — where the first Tommy Bahama Restaurant opened in 1995 — but he stepped in to help the stores rebuild.
“A lot of staff and locals are excited that we’re open again,” he said, reassuring diners that the staple dishes like coconut shrimp and Sanibel chicken weren’t going anywhere, even if the exterior looks different.
“We’re still that same Tommy Bahama, just with a somewhat more upscale experience,” he added.
McNulty said the design of the
McNulty said he hopes everyone who visits after the grand opening appreciates the new experience as well.
“We supply the food, the cocktails, the fun — all they have to do is come and enjoy the rest,” he said.
Tommy Bahama CEO Doug Wood said he is thrilled with how the rebuilding of the restaurant turned out.
The back patio at the recently reopened Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar on St. Armands Key features a retractable roof.
Photos by Dana Kampa
Brand manager Mariana Hinestrosa showcases the Tommy Bahama Island Collection of cigars, made with tobacco sourced from Nicaragua.
General Manager Ryan McNulty said it was a team effort to make the redesigned Tommy Bahama shops on St. Armands Circle what they are today, and he appreciated the work of everyone who helped prepare for the official grand opening on Nov. 5.
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