LONGBOAT
Observer
Longboat Key’s weekly newspaper since 1978
YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.
Conflict zone.
PAGE 12A
FREE • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
VOLUME 46, NO. 25
YOUR TOWN
City Island makeover proposed Local group wants to transform park into an attraction with rides. SEE PAGE 3A
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Honors for advocate Bunny Skirboll, founder of Compeer, recently was honored with the Lee and Bob Peterson Legacy Award during Sunshine From Darkness’ annual event at The Ritz-Carlton in Sarasota. After Skirboll experienced a near-fatal car accident nearly 50 years ago, she founded Compeer with the determination to make a difference in others’ lives. The nonprofit promotes positive mental health through the healing power of friendship, according to its website. “Bunny’s life’s work exemplifies resilience and compassion, making her an outstanding recipient of this esteemed recognition,” said a press release from the Lee and Bob Peterson Foundation. Compeer began in Rochester, New York, but in 2011, it opened an office in Sarasota. According to a press release, it is now a part of the largest community mental health organization in Sarasota County, Coastal Behavioral Health, in 2021.
Course Charted Harry Anand will lead the Sarasota Yacht Club into the future. SEE PAGE 1B
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Harry Anand (far right) at the Change of Watch ceremony recognizing him as SYC commodore, with Bobby Overall, Brian Will and Alex Lancaster.
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June Hessel
Give and gather
Longboat Island Chapel was onto something Jan. 23 when it held its “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” dinner. As the weather has been colder than usual on the Gulf Coast, the Chapel’s charitable outreach committee collected new or gently used sweaters and jackets for the monthly “Give and Gather.” People brought everything from quilted coats to longsleeved shirts and other warm clothes. Donations went to Turning Points in Bradenton to help keep the area homeless population warm during the cold months. To collect the donations, the committee held a buffet dinner made by Chef David Stone. About 50 people attended. Chapel member Sue Reese said that many snowbirds are back and multiple new guests were able to join the dinner as well.
Breeze to ride Sarasota County ride-share app links the entire Key. PAGE 4A
HOMECOMING. INSIDE