Longboat Observer 3.27.25

YOUR TOWN

New transport of choice

Cybertrucks are yesterday’s news, and regular lifted pickup trucks, even with custom tractor-sized tires, can’t rise above floodwaters. But Longboat Key residents have struck upon a solution with the latest trend in transportation. Islanders are in a frenzy to buy up the nationwide stock of high-water vehicles so they can navigate roads even amidst the worst storms. In the past, emergency response services were the primary buyers of such heavyduty machinery, but islanders have protested the exclusivity with their dollars.

As a bonus, the high-water vehicles have tall enough carriages to ride above cars in Gulf of Mexico Drive traffic jams.

Skyline Chili coming to LBK Leaders have struggled to find a way forward with building a Manatee County community center, dealing with a broken lease and multiple delays. But they have come up with a new plan, bringing in the beloved Cincinnati-based Skyline Chili to take over the project.

Town commissioners who backed the decision said nothing brings people together like food, so it only made sense to bring in the regional delight. This pinnacle of cuisine piles finely minced meat-based sauce on plain spaghetti noodles, optionally accompanied by a pile of grated neon-yellow cheese and oyster crackers. The grand opening for the national chili brand is set to take place on April 1. Call 941366-3468 for reservations.

WEEK OF APRIL 1, 2025

BY THE NUMBERS

“I

moved here in early November, and

I’ve

never seen so much traffic. Cleveland and Cincinnati don’t have these backups. I don’t mind paying at all.”

Imma Driver, who just moved to Players Club from Tyrefyre, Ohio. Read more on page 3A

The block of 3100 Gulf of Mexico Drive near Buttonwood Drive is changing fast, with a new commercial plaza in construction and a possible Starbucks location opening in the adjacent plaza.

To account for what’s expected to be increased traffic in the area, the town decided to help Orlando-based construction firm Garages Guaranteed to construct a two-story parking garage across the street from the plazas.

The garage will take over the current public beach access point located at 3175 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

“It was a no-brainer for all of us,” said Garages Guaranteed project manager Will Stikley.

“The town and plaza owners were fully supportive.”

The town of Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Board received plans and approved them at the end of February.

The plans did not require Town Commission approval because of the nature of the re-zoning requirement.

The plaza owners and the town will partly fund the garage. Town representatives said the town may need to tap into emergency reserves to start the project.

Stikley said his company would start construction as soon as it receives its final building permit, which the Planning, Zoning and Building Department estimated would be April 1. According to representatives from the town, the parking garage will operate 24/7 and cost $2 per hour, or a maximum rate of $20 per day. The garage will be open to beachgoers, but customers of the plazas across the street can obtain a discounted validation code.

Environmental groups make turtle nests

A new environmental organization in Sarasota County wants to give sea turtles extra help this upcoming nesting season.

Environmental organizations in the area, including Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, were concerned with the change in beach topography along many Sarasota County beaches after Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Specifically, groups were concerned the nesting sea turtles would have less space to nest with less sand on the beaches.

Fear not, though, because a new group on the block, Egg-straordinary Solutions, is transforming vegetative storm debris into circular piles that the organization’s founder, Jane Granda, said will be perfect for the turtles to lay their eggs.

When walking along Longboat Key’s beaches this season, be careful what debris you pick up, because it might be home to a clutch of sea turtle eggs thanks to Egg-straordinary Solutions.

Town to emulate Wimbledon for pickleball

Who needs turf more than the island’s furry companions? Pickleballers, of course.

The town of Longboat Key partnered with private donors to replace the turf in the dog park and will use the old dog park turf to line Bayfront Park’s pickleball courts.

“We really wanted to give pickleball players the opportunity to feel what it’s like to play on turf,” said new recreational programming manager Todd Bow. “Kind of like Wimbledon.”

The town conducted some public outreach with pickleball and tennis players at Bayfront Park and received mostly positive opinions about the turf, according to Bow. Bow said the town anticipates the project will kick off as soon as possible, which would effectively close the pickleball courts from April 1 to July. All courts should be open toward the end of summer, Bow said.

PRICE TO PAY

State officials hope to curtail the heavy traffic that has plagued Gulf of Mexico Drive for years.

HOW DID WE GET

HERE?

The idea of toll booths on Longboat Key isn’t a new one, but FDOT said it has been working on it for decades.

However, some local residents have been outspoken in their opposition to the project, saying this is the first they’ve heard about it.

FDOT officials said they have been working on the toll booth plans for 25 years and have held many public meetings on the process. To maximize public input, it held several evening meetings in August and September. In addition, it clearly noticed its plans on its website.

“This was a very public process that we’re very proud of,” said FDOT official Less Thansense. “We gathered comment from

MICHAEL HARRIS MANAGING EDITOR

During the season, there is nothing worse than pulling out of your Beachplace condominium at 5:15 p.m., turning right and ... stop.

Now, you’re sitting and waiting ... and waiting, to get off Longboat Key to get to your 5:30 p.m. Columbia Restaurant reservations for dinner.

Frustration doesn’t begin to describe how one feels as they inch their way toward St. Armands. A passenger can look over and see the snail on the skirt of Gulf of Mexico Drive outpacing the Range Rover.

The Florida Department of Transportation plans to change that with a toll system, which it hopes will curtail traffic snarls getting off the island and limit those getting on the island over the course of a day.

Beginning Tuesday, April 1, two toll booths under the Florida SunPass prepaid toll program will undergo installation on State Highway 789, aka Gulf of Mexico Drive.

To install the new toll booths, Gulf of Mexico Drive will be closed to traffic from 6 a.m. to noon southbound April 1 and from noon to 6 p.m. northbound.

“We’ve done a lot of studies statewide, and we’ve deemed this the best solution to the traffic problem and the safest time to implement it,” said FDOT official Less Thansense.

One toll booth will be at the south end of the island on the south side of the road in front of the Chart House restaurant. The north tool booth will be between the end of the Longboat Pass Bridge and Firehouse Court.

To get on the island, the toll will be $10 at the south end, which is higher since that’s the most popular entry, and $8 on the north end. Year-round residents have an option to buy a transponder with unlimited trips for $50 per month, while others will need to have exact change. Transponders are sold at Publix, 525 Bay Isles Parkway, and CVS, 505 Bay Isles Parkway, on the island. Proof of year-round residency is required for purchase. There is an up charge for those

without the transponder in Florida’s Toll-by-Plate system. For Florida and U.S. residents, the charge is $15 on both ends and because of tariffs, Canadian visitors will pay 25% more at $18.75.

But much like the Sanibel Causeway to get on Sanibel Island in Lee County, the toll counts only to get on Longboat Key. Getting off the Key is no charge.

“Thank goodness,” said Imma Driver, who just moved to Players Club from Tyrefyre, Ohio. “I moved here in early November, and I’ve never seen so much traffic. Cleveland and Cincinnati don’t have these backups. I don’t mind paying at all.”

The charges should also have a positive effect on crime. With less “outsiders” getting on the island, it means a safer community.

“You know, I was not happy about the tolls,” said Tim “Irish” Grunhard, a year-round resident of Seaplace after moving from Linkinsbeard, Illinois, two years ago. “But since it will cut back on crime, then I’d definitely go along with it. Shoot, for me it’s just 50 bucks a month.”

There in lies the problem. Seasonal residents are quite vocal about the extra charges, especially for people like the Hurikayns who actually visit Longboat during the off-time from June through November. Paying $15 can add up each time they leave and come back to the island.

“This is ridiculous, especially for us,” said Milt, who with his wife, Helen, visits from Kreemed Korn, Iowa. “In the mornings we like to go from Longboat to Siesta Key and hit the beach, but we come back in early afternoon and then we like to flood St. Armands for dinner. That’s going to be $30 a day! I guess we can stay on the island, limit the surge of mon-

Planning underway to protect St. Armands Circle with a dome

The geodesic dome will protect the vital business district from future storm damage and create an ideal habitat inside.

ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER

After successive years of flooding from both sky and sea of the economic engine that is St. Armands Circle, and the apparent inability to prevent it via traditional means, a group of scientists led by billionaire entrepreneur Richard Branson is proposing construction of a geodesic dome over the district.

The concept is to cover the Circle plus one block in all four directions along John Ringling Boulevard and Boulevard of the Presidents with a transparent dome. Devoid of flat surfaces and corners, the curvature of the structure will allow the harmless deflection of high winds and rainwater to cascade down to the base, where it will divert into underground vaults for irrigation and other non-potable water uses.

The dome would also withstand the impact of storm surge.

Inside is the ability to keep the temperature at 78 degrees with low

humidity, providing ideal weather conditions for strolling along the sidewalks, visiting boutiques and dining alfresco.

“Just think about the flexibility for our customers,” said one St. Armands restaurant owner who did not want to be identified. “We won’t have to ask if they want to be seated outside or inside. It will all be outside. Or inside.”

The dome will come at no cost to the city, county or state taxpayers courtesy of Branson’s Virgin Group, which will study its use to assist in the design of similar structures to facilitate human habitation of Mars.

“It’s a win-win for everyone,” said lead scientist Nikola Edison. “St. Armands Circle is protected and we will have the opportunity to research the habits of people inside the dome and learn how to make it sustainable over extended periods. And just imagine how awe-inspiring it will be to see the dome rising above the landscape when coming across the Ringling Bridge.”

At night, customized lighting projections onto the dome are to be visible both inside and out. “The state won’t let us light the Ringling Bridge anymore in recognition of certain groups, months or holidays, so this is the next best thing,” said city official Rob Patrick. To be functional and to maintain

interior climate conditions, however, the dome will be closed to all vehicle traffic, which will change at the intersections of:

n John Ringling Boulevard at Adams Drive to the west.

n John Ringling Boulevard at Washington Drive to the east.

n Boulevard of the Presidents at Madison Drive to the north.

n Boulevard of the Presidents at Monroe Drive to the south.

Access into the sealed semi-sphere will be available only via automatic sliding glass doors, which must open and close quickly.

“Think about the bridge on Star Trek,” Edison said. “We can even make them make that sound, which is totally unnecessary but pretty cool.”

With no more vehicle traffic, the streets inside the dome will convert into a pedestrian mall, eliminating all conflicts between vehicles and people. However, that will force all vehicles passing through St. Armands to and from Longboat Key to navigate neighborhood streets in the short term. To mitigate the inevitable congestion, the Florida Department of Transportation is exploring the prospects of building a causeway from City Island to Bird Key, connecting at the Ringling Bridge — with a roundabout of course. That causeway will take sev-

ey, and go to the place that serves etouffee, but calls it jambalaya.”

One way to look at the tolls is what Milt points out. Keeping people on the island will also help promote local businesses and, of course, is another method of keeping traffic from backing up since more people are staying on the island.

For some residents, they hope the April 1 closing of Gulf of Mexico Drive will scare away visitors.

“Maybe they’ll get out of here sooner,” a woman who only wanted to be identified as Karen said. “I’m not one to complain,but this season has been the worst. First the hurricanes, people leaving their junk in their yards, cutting down eagles’ trees, construction during season.

Everyone get out, leave Longboat to the turtles and the new Starbucks.”

eral years to complete. In the interim, a high-speed ferry is being considered providing transportation between the barrier islands and the mainland. Branson is experimenting with a fleet of superyacht catamaran sailboats to cross Sarasota Bay in less than four minutes. Virgin plans base a fleet of captained catamarans at the 10th Street boat launch — Centennial Park — to deliver passengers to the airport or anywhere in the downtown district.

“Branson’s companies are pulling out all the stops for this experiment, all of which will have a posi-

tive impact on our community,” said Patrick. “This will give us a reason to activate City Island, maybe with some attractions to give ferry passengers something to do while they’re waiting.” Inside the dome, specific weather conditions may be manipulated to mimic seasonal changes and even create holiday spirit. Snow, for example, can fall onto Circle Park during the Christmas season.

“Now that’s what you call a real winter spectacular,” Patrick said.

GOTCHA!

Happy April Fools’ Day from the Longboat Observer! The stories on Pages 1A through 4A are not real

Hope you’re as relieved as we are!

Musk moves to Longboat Key as SpaceX finds space in SRQ

Billionaire Elon Musk plans to purchase space in the St. Regis Longboat Key for the new Department of Government Efficiency headquarters amid the SRQ SpaceX development.

Abig-name billionaire has his sights set on putting Longboat Key

the map — a map

includes the Gulf of

Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX and right-hand man to President Donald Trump, plans to purchase a 20,000-square-foot space in the St. Regis Longboat Key to set up the new headquarters of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

SpaceX announced via a press release to local media the company planned to open a launch site as part of a new expansion at the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ).

Construction for the SRQ expansion will begin immediately, thanks to majority funding by Musk.

The main SpaceX building at SRQ will be almost twice the size of the newly opened Concourse A. Outside of the terminal and offices for SpaceX, Musk plans to include a launch pad to test new AI-driven rockets.

The flight path will go over Longboat Key at Bayfront Park, which also offers the possibility of a viewing park for shuttle watchers.

“SpaceX thanks Sarasota for partnering in this new endeavor for the company and for the United States,” a press release said. “We are excited to usher in a new, golden age for the

Sarasota area.”

The press release details how the new rockets will enhance the United States’ ability to operate space missions with less human manpower, with the potential for this technology to be utilized by the military if necessary.

Most of the SpaceX offices inside SRQ will be off-limits to the public, but the press release said there will be a small museum-like space where the public can admire the achievements of SpaceX and DOGE.

DOGE HQ ON LBK

While overseeing the development of the new launch pad and rocket technology, Musk plans to spend a considerable amount of time in the Sarasota area. This led him to focus his sights on the new St. Regis Longboat Key.

Representatives at DOGE could offer little information, but confirmed Musk plans to buy out units from multiple condominium own-

through Trump’s appointment to evaluate the federal government’s spending across nearly every other agency and department.

A White House insider confirms DOGE plans to use funds cut from some of these agencies to pay for the new headquarters.

The new DOGE headquarters will allow Musk to be closer to new work at SpaceX and more easily balance the duties of CEO and department head.

The St. Regis could not comment on the deal for the headquarters space, but one of the unit owners said he was happy to give up his unit.

ers at the St. Regis to convert almost 20,000 square feet into the new DOGE headquarters. Musk leads the department

“I even offered to give it to them for free,” Robert Mann said. “Musk and DOGE insisted they give me market value for the property, though.”

While on a private phone call with

Musk, Mann said Musk could have anything he wanted in the unit.

According to Mann, Musk requested the kitchen and bed frame remain in place, but Musk would bring with him a new memory foam mattress and a heap of “critical minerals and rare earths” to decorate the space. Besides additional permits for the space, which DOGE already acquired, the town of Longboat Key granted DOGE’s headquarters an exemption on ordinances outlined in Chapter 100 of the town’s code. Chapter 100 specifies marine turtle protections, specifically regarding lighting during nesting season. The town confirmed DOGE will be allowed to operate during any hour of the night with “any lights necessary.”

Bike lane closures

If you plan to bike south through Longboat Key, make sure to allot extra time for a construction detour.

The Country Club Shores turn lane project is underway and, as a part of the project, the bike lane in the project span is closed.

This means bicyclists are not to bike in the lane on Gulf of Mexico Drive lane from Longboat Key Club Road to Channel Lane. There is also a barrier wall installed throughout the project. While construction is underway, the town advises bicyclists and motorists to stay alert in the construction zone and allow for extra travel time.

According to previous estimates, the town aimed to have the bulk of roadway construction complete in May with final landscaping closing the project in June.

St. Armands Orchestra

St. Armands Key Lutheran Church hosted an intimate performance by the Sarasota Bay Chamber Orchestra on March 21, where about 50 community members took in the show conducted by Michael Bodnyk, above.

Players brought to life the works of Bach, Pachelbel and Mozart.

Bodnyk, the church’s minister of music and director of operations, led the show and even offered a vocal performance at the finale that moved some viewers to tears.

Attendees joined in a reception after the show and expressed their appreciation at seeing the church regain its vibrancy.

THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 2025

Public

OF MARCH 27, 2025

BY THE NUMBERS

“We’re on a path here, but we have to be very careful about what these expenses are.”

Mayor Ken Schneier on the Broadway Roundabout project Read more on page 9A

Vehicle drives into Moorings, driver hospitalized

Longboat Key Fire and Rescue personnel responded to an emergency call on Tuesday, March 18, after bystanders reported a vehicle drove into the water at the Longboat Key Moorings.

According to Public Information Officer Tina Adams, the driver mistakenly accelerated, drove off an approximately 5-foot seawall and ended up in Sarasota Bay. Adams said bystanders pulled the 44-yearold driver from the water and began CPR.

Longboat Key units responded around 5:36 p.m. to the report of a vehicle in the water. After evaluating the scene and patients, the Longboat Key Fire Rescue Crew requested an airlift via Bayflite because of one patient’s condition and traffic delays. Crews also evaluated the 64-year-old passenger at the scene and initially cleared him, but he later requested a further evaluation, transporting him to Sarasota Memorial Hospital as a non-emergency patient.

Adams said the hospital has since informed the department that it expects the female patient to have a positive outcome.

The Sarasota Police Department’s Traffic Homicide Investigator later took over the investigation of the incident, according to Adams.

As of Monday, March 24, there were no further updates about the accident.

PD aims to connect with community

The Longboat Key Police Department will hold a new event on Tuesday, April 1 called “Connecting with the Community: Police Update and Feedback Forum.”

The goal of the event is to have an open discussion about the department’s active community policing initiatives. Residents are invited to come share concerns and ask questions so department leaders can take feedback and use it to address pressing concerns and future discussions.

At the event, residents will meet Interim Chief of Police Frank Rubino and a patrol sergeant.

The event will be held at 2 p.m. on April 1 at the Longboat Key Town Hall commission chambers, 501 Bay Isles Road.

Possible location for north-end center

At the town commission’s March 24 workshop, Town Manager Howard Tipton shared an update on a potential space for a north-end community center.

Manatee County previously committed to bringing a community and learning center to the north end of Longboat Key. Recently, though, county officials backed out of a four-year lease in Whitney Plaza that would have housed the center.

Tipton said a space at 6910 Gulf of Mexico Drive could be an opportunity to enter a short-term lease while the town works with the county to evaluate the possibility to purchase the lot.

The owner of the lot at 6910 Gulf of Mexico Drive is listed as High Ground LBK LLC, which Tipton said is owned by Ed Chiles. There is a building already on the lot, but Tipton said another advantage of the space are the 88 parking spaces that could be utilized also as beach parking and a potential staging area in future storm events. Commissioners agreed to allow town staff to work with Manatee County to further evaluate the possibility.

After 27 years, Phillips leaves with solid legacy

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

If there was a Longboat Key trivia contest, Susan Phillips would win by a landslide.

Alongside the personal mementos in her office is a miniature town archive. Filled cabinets hold aerial photos from the 1970s, drawers contain flyers from the town’s 50th anniversary celebration and tucked away are old town plans pushed off and shelved for safekeeping.

For 27 years, Phillips has served as the town manager’s assistant, a job that included a wide range of responsibilities such as scheduling meetings, organizing events, helping to fundraise, informing the public and supporting the town manager with any necessary odd job.

But as she prepares to leave her chair, she is clearing some things out. As she does, though, she’s leaving a few things behind, such as a large painting in her office and her 50th anniversary flag that’s framed in Town Hall.

“When I walk through Town Hall, it’s like I live here,” Phillips said. “I see my fingerprints everywhere.”

The belongings left behind are a part of something she said she never thought about deeply until now — her legacy.

LIFE-CHANGING CAREER

Before Longboat Key, Phillips worked on St. Simons Island in Georgia. There, she managed a family restaurant that sat 800 to 1,200 people, depending on the occasion.

In 1996, a fire in Phillips’ house left her with nothing. She lost everything she owned, and her life changed as she became mobile, only having her car.

About a year later, her boyfriend at the time was living in Longboat Key.

The two of them decided to get married “because we were young,” Phillips said, and she moved to Longboat Key with her first husband in 1998.

Three months later, she started working for the town.

Phillips spent 27 years in her town position, a post that developed over the years from administrative aid to assistant to the town manager.

“When you grow, the position grows with you,” Phillips said.

On paper, Phillips is the town’s “assistant to the town manager,” but it’s impossible to distill Phillips’ job description down to a single sentence. Over 27 years, she tacked on more and more responsibilities.

Whenever there was a need, be it organizing an art gallery or helping to lead fundraising, Phillips was the answer.

But that’s what made the job exciting — the multiple roles, responsibility and the fact that no two days are the same.

“Every time the phone rings, the day changes,” Phillips said.

Over the years, she worked under four town managers, and there was also a two-week period when Phillips herself served as acting town manager following Bruce St. Denis’ departure.

During her 27 years, there was plenty of progress she saw happen around the island — The Colony demolition and redevelopment, the new Publix, a new Town Hall.

One of the pinnacle points of her career, though, was her involvement with the art scene on Longboat Key. She had an active hand in the town’s involvement with the former northend arts center and organized art receptions there.

That art focus continued in other ways after the arts center, including the artist displays in Town Hall, the historical photo collection around Town Hall and decorating the Town Commission office.

These things were “odd jobs” that became a part of Phillips’ job.

“Her experience and knowledge of the community was invaluable

BY

Phillips spent her career taking on a heap of responsibilities as the town manager’s assistant — and has the stories to prove it.

THE NUMBERS

During her 27 years, Phillips:

n Worked for 4 town managers (Bruce St. Denis, Dave Bullock, Tom Harmer, Howard Tipton)

n Witnessed 40 town commissioners (her husband, Steve Branham, making it an even 40)

n Activated for over 30 hurricanes/storm events

n Managed 115 artists for various events n Oversaw 82 art exhibits

to getting me oriented to this place. And her ability to pick up the phone and meaningfully connect with anybody on a daily basis was something I had not experienced in the past,” Tipton said.

Her tenure also included the inception and progression of Longboat Key’s emergency alert system, Alert Longboat Key, which she noted as one of her biggest accomplishments.

Out of everything, Phillips said community was key.

That includes answering the phone with compassion for every resident who called with a problem and working with other town staff members, whom she praised as having unbelievable professionalism.

“Everything about making this job work is about relationships,” Phillips said.

There were many things she could have picked as a highlight of her career, but one was in 2023 when she helped coordinate a Veterans Day event that included a $35,750 donation to SRQ Vets and the dedication of the Karon Family Pavilion.

The one that stuck out the most, though, was being selected as the grand marshal for Longboat Key’s Freedom Fest in 2018.

“I was very humbled by that selection,” Phillips said.

A CALL AWAY

In 2012, Phillips got remarried to Steve Branham, a rear admiral in the U.S. Coast Guard.

One of the main reasons behind Phillips’ departure is that Branham recently fulfilled his goal of becoming a town commissioner.

Phillips said they worried there could have been a perceived conflict of interest because of her involvement in the town, so one of the deciding factors for her retirement was to allow her husband to do something he wanted to pursue.

“I really wanted him to have that

opportunity,” Phillips said.

Plus, Phillips, who turns 67 this year, said, “You have to step down sometime.” She felt like now was that time.

Her official last day in her chair is March 31, but she’ll slowly transition out of the town through June.

The transitional period will focus on training. Because of everything roped into her position over the years, there won’t be just one person taking on all of those responsibilities.

Deputy Clerk Savannah Cobb will become the new executive assistant to assist Town Manager Howard Tipton and Assistant Town Manager Isaac Brownman. She will assume the bulk of Phillips’ responsibilities.

“They’re retiring my number,” Phillips joked, adding that Tipton said the town will no longer use the title “assistant to the town manager.”

After retiring from the town, though, Phillips won’t sit around. The first project she’s looking forward to is redoing Bicentennial Park with the Longboat Key Garden Club.

She assured her successors she would be a phone call away, eagerly waiting to serve the town again in whatever way she’s needed. Phillips foresees it will be tough for her to sit idly by as a resident during events like a storm activation.

“I won’t know how to be still. I just hope they call me,” Phillips said.

“I won’t know how to be

I just hope they call me.”

Susan Phillips

Williams in as vice mayor, Schneier remains mayor

Debra Williams will serve as the town’s new vice mayor until 2026 after taking over the title as Mike Haycock reached his commission term limit.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

District 4 Commissioner Debra Williams is Longboat Key’s new vice mayor. The Town Commission unanimously voted to appoint Williams at the March 24 statutory meeting.

Williams was the only candidate for the position, nominated by District 5 Commissioner Sarah Karon.

Williams joined the commission in 2021 after serving on the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Board from 2018 to 2021. For five years, she also served on the Planning and Zoning Board in Rumson, New Jersey.

Before entering public service, Williams spent much of her professional career as a consultant for AT&T and later worked with startup businesses to assist with technology infrastructure, human resources and operations.

The commission also appointed mayor Ken Schneier to serve as Longboat Key’s mayor for his last year on the commission. He will reach his term limit in 2026 and will not be eligible for re-election next year.

District 1 Commissioner Gary Coffin made the sole nomination for mayor, which was Schneier.

“I’m looking forward to finishing some projects we started years ago and getting shovels in the ground for a number of projects that we need to get done,”Schneier said. “I’m looking forward to a very productive year for all of us.”

Schneier also said he sees the upcoming year as a transitional year as the commission looks for a successor to the mayor role, which Schneier has held since March 2020.

Also at the March 24 statutory meeting, commissioners verified the results of the March 2025 election.

Steve Branham was sworn in as a new at-large commissioner, taking over the vacant seat from Mike Haycock, who reached his term limit this year.

Branham won the Longboat Key general election with 1,079 votes. His opponent, Deborah Murphy, received 498 votes. Branham’s term will run from 2025 to 2028.

He served on the town’s Consoli-

Williams joined the commission in 2021 after serving on the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Board from 2018 to 2021.

dated Retirement System Board of Trustees and has been the chair since 2014.

Before his commission career, Branham spent much of his life serving the U.S. Coast Guard, both as rear admiral and chief financial officer of the organization.

Commissioner-At-Large BJ Bishop and District 5 Commissioner Sarah Karon were the sole candidates for their respective districts and took their oaths of office on March 24.

Bishop will serve a standard threeyear term from 2025 to 2028. Karon was first appointed to the District 5 seat in January 2024, taking over the seat left vacant after Debbie Murphy’s resignation.

Karon served a 14-month term until the next general election, at which time the seat would be back up for election.

After the 2025 election qualifying period, Karon was the only candidate to qualify for the district. She will serve out the remainder of Murphy’s original term until March 2026. At that time, the seat will again be up for election.

FDOT takes on roundabout project management

The FDOT agreed to manage the project for the town to get the Broadway Roundabout underway after a series of previous delays and hurdles.

CARTER WEINHOFER

STAFF WRITER

The Broadway Roundabout still has a green light, and town officials are working more closely with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to make progress on the preconstruction requirements.

At the Longboat Key Town Commission’s March 24 workshop, Town Engineer Jennifer Fehrs updated commissioners on the shared responsibilities of the roundabout project, most of which FDOT will assume.

The February cost update for the project was around $5.1 million, splitting the cost between FDOT, the town, Manatee County and the Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), the latter of which will fund most of the project.

In fall 2024, the MPO told the town it could accelerate about $4.8 million in funding for the Broadway Roundabout the organization previously set aside for 2030.

To use those federal funds, the project would need to be managed by an agency or organization certified through the Local Agency Program (LAP).

According to Fehrs, the town does not have the personnel capacity to meet LAP-certification criteria.

That led to the latest development, which is FDOT taking on the responsibility of the project since it has the LAP certification.

“What FDOT was doing was assuming responsibilities for the project all the way from advertising through construction completion,” Fehrs said.

With the FDOT essentially becoming the primary project manager, the town will need to enter a memorandum of understanding with FDOT.

This new responsibility shift also requires the town to comply with more FDOT requirements like enhanced design, utility adjustments, and additional water and wastewater construction.

These additional requirements are on the town’s dollar.

The town had to take on the $569,400 for advanced design performed by Kimley-Horn Associates, Inc. (KHA). Fehrs said FDOT will pay for some of that but did not yet give a specific dollar amount for the reimbursement.

Other financial responsibilities for the town through construction will include landscaping, pavers, utility relocation and upgrades and water and wastewater construction. Water and wastewater work could cost around $975,000, which would need to be pulled from the fiscal year

2026 budget, Fehrs said.

Now, the town is engaged with KHA for the advanced design and allowing KHA to perform advanced geotechnical surveys and other services required for FDOT to take over the project.

Fehrs said the target date to complete plans for the project would be Oct. 31, with project letting and bidding beginning in February 2026.

When the project reaches construction, Fehrs said it would last around two years.

Questions about the new costs and overall benefit of the project circulated among the town commissioners after the presentation.

Commissioner-At-Large BJ Bishop questioned if the roundabout would improve traffic flow on the north end of the island, or have the opposite effect.

Fehrs said she did not have data to support whether the roundabout would improve traffic or wait times but emphasized the project’s focus

The town of Longboat Key had to go back to the drawing board to redesign a potential roundabout at the intersection of Broadway Street and Gulf of Mexico Drive.

was on safety at the intersection.

“When you’re driving Broadway without any kind of traffic control, it does feel a bit scary, especially if you’re coming from Broadway to Gulf of Mexico Drive,” Fehrs said.

“The site distances aren’t what I would consider adequate to be able to see oncoming traffic.”

Public Works Director Charlie Mopps added the roundabout would also improve pedestrian crossing safety at the busy intersection that has public beach access on one end and restaurants on the other.

The roundabout would move the pedestrian crossing closer to the intersection rather than where it is south of the intersection.

Mayor Ken Schneier said while the town should remain vigilant about additional costs burdening the town, there seems to be a momentum that should continue.

“I don’t favor start again, stop again, start again, stop again,” Schneier said. “We’re on a path here,

but we have to be very careful about what these expenses are.”

That momentum had previously been lost in April 2023 when the town reached 90% design and the FDOT said it would reject the plans because of concerns with the roadway banking, or curve.

This forced the town to re-engage with KHA for a new design to fix the banking, add elements of the town’s complete street vision and add drainage improvements in response to concerns raised by local property owners.

The new design meant the project would cost about $3.2 million more than previously budgeted, and the project briefly halted while town staff figured next steps. This then led to the MPO agreeing to advance some of the funding it had previously set aside for the project.

CAR APARTS

Responding to a vehicle crash can quickly become a complicated situation. But if one arises, the Longboat Key Fire Rescue Department knows how to handle it.

From March 18 to 20, Longboat Key Fire Rescue crews practiced vehicle extrication techniques, utilizing equipment like the Jaws of Life.

A crew of about nine personnel, including two lieutenants and firefighter paramedics, suited up and approached the scenario as they would with a live rescue call.

The lieutenants commanded the scene and directed firefighter paramedics along the way.

The first step is the most important, said Training Captain David Eggleston, which he said is “to do a proper 360 around the vehicle to determine all the potential hazards and how to approach.”

This means the crew will perform a 360-degree observation around the exterior of the scene to try to get a full view of the inside of the vehicle.

First, the crew will look around the scene of the crash for ejected victims, hazardous car parts strewn about or if there are potentially dangerous

Longboat Key Fire Rescue teams practices vehicle extrication techniques.

vehicle fluids.

Inside the vehicle, the quick but detailed observations help the crew in determining how many victims are inside the vehicle, the severity of the victims’ injuries and how a paramedic could enter the vehicle to begin treating the victim.

“The 360 is super important on all of our scenes,” Eggleston said.

For the scenario on March 20, the simulation was a single victim, single-vehicle crash. Eggleston said this could be a scenario where someone crashes into a traffic barrier or tree, but applying similar procedures would be the case for many accidents.

When possible, a paramedic or two would enter the vehicle and begin treating any victims. This was the case during the training on March 20.

Two crew members entered the vehicle and began treating the victim’s injuries.

The firefighter paramedics on the outside began using the Hurst Jaws of Life tools to break open the vehicle and, as they did, the crew members inside could protect the victim from potential debris from the tools.

The Jaws of Life are common tools for vehicle extrication, and the tools used by the Longboat Key Fire Rescue Department include cutters, a spreader and a ram.

Cutters are all in the name — the powerful attachment can cut apart tough pieces of metal like the frame in between the front and rear doors.

A spreader pushes into a door frame and, using the tool’s electricpowered force, spreads open the door when it’s stuck.

A ram is utilized for scenarios like

Eggleston

“You

Different

Time for a SPAC reboot

The most recent citySPAC meeting showed a lot of misalignment among the players. Here are four key issues to be resolved to keep it going.

MATT WALSH

Yogi Berra was such a smart guy: “Déjà vu all over again.”

The March 17 City Commission meeting on whether to adopt an “implementation agreement” for a new performing arts center was indeed déjà vu all over again. Many of us have seen that movie many times in Sarasota … Just propose a large-scale development in the city, and then imagine a giant, complicated spaghetti ball that takes months for city commissioners to try to unravel. Indeed, in this instance, if you pushed through the City Commission’s five-hour discussion, it’s likely you could have reached this conclusion: Timeout. This isn’t working.

Or, as they say when you get that “spinning wheel of death” on your MacBook: Just turn it off, let it sit, take a pause and then reboot.

Here’s reality: City commissioners as a group are not developers. They’re policymakers watching out for taxpayers, a board of directors overseeing and advising on strategy and operations.

At the same time, the interactions at the meeting between the commissioners and Tania Castroverde Moskalenko, CEO of the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation, clearly sent the message there are communication and responsibility gaps that need restructuring.

A major reboot is needed.

The tenor and content of the conversation needs to change to avoid a total motherboard meltdown. Take a breath. Table the implementation agreement for now. Go back and watch the video of the commission meeting to assess what needs to be addressed to change the conversation from what looks like a losing proposition to getting the process on a track to succeed.

During the five-hour slog, several crucial concerns emerged. We’re certainly not development experts, but if this venture is to continue and succeed, those concerns warrant changes in the way this process is being led and managed.

To begin, one of the foremost necessities for the success of any project involving multiple partners and players is this: alignment. Everyone must be in alignment every step of the way — who does what, who is or not responsible for what. The City Commission, city staff and Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation tried spelling that out in previous agreements, but it was palpable March 17 that adjustments are needed.

To be sure, there will be disagreements, and circumstances will call for flexibility. But ultimately, the partners must operate with mutual respect and trust.

Lacking that, misalignment will bring inevitable failure. More on that later. Back to the crucial concerns to be resolved. At the top of the list:

■ 1) Do commissioners believe and agree: 1) a new performing arts hall — an arts hall for the future, for the next 50 years — should be developed; and 2) the process should continue now? That commitment from commissioners is essential and must come before alignment on the details. It’s the first thing that should be addressed and addressed in a vote at the commission’s next meeting.

People want to know.

Not to do that will signal uncertainty, a sign that would reverberate widely, deflate enthusiasm and make it far more difficult — perhaps impossible — for SPAF to raise its share of the funding.

It’s understandable if Commissioner Kathy Kelley Ohlrich and Vice Mayor Debbie Trice are ambivalent about making such a commitment. The cost scares them — for good reason. The Bay Park and performing arts center are the largest city projects since Sarasota city voters approved a bond issue in the early 1960s to construct the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall and build Mound Street and Bayfront Park simultaneously.

But surely Ohlrich and Trice realize their commitments in particular will determine success or failure.

As Castroverde Moskalenko told commissioners: Private donors are holding off from writing checks until they see whether city commissioners make a definitive commitment to go forward.

This is akin to city critic Martin Hyde’s chicken-or-egg analogy. What comes first?

Like the private donors, Ohlrich and Trice are hesitant to make a commitment — especially when they do not like the cost or don’t know what donors will contribute. That bring us to concern #2.

■ 2) The total cost must be decided and locked.

That is not up to the architects. City commissioners and the SPAF must be determine the total amount the city is willing and able to spend.

What can the city comfortably afford to meet its debt obligations; be in line with the growth in the tax increment financing funds; and not create undue default risk?

We’ve seen the number grow — from $185 million to $250 million to more than $400 million.

Perhaps the total cost is not a set number; perhaps it is a range; or cast as no more than a percentage of the TIF.

Commissioners need to see real-world comparables and best practices from other cities that have gone through this. The discussion should also include some examination of what it would cost to design a performing arts center for the future — a center that is outfitted for mega-screen digital sets of the future and not for the old-school truckloads of traveling theater sets.

They need a definitive list of the three to five other major public infrastructure projects that will need financing in the coming years.

With all that, they each should write down their numbers — what they’re willing to spend. Then make a decision and stick to it.

■

3) Show the city the money. The performing arts foundation in its earlier agreement with the city is obligated to provide the city with its funding commitments at least quarterly. If city commissioners commit to the project and if a cost is determined, spirits and confidence would rise if the foundation shortly thereafter produced its first catalytic contributions totaling in the high five or six figures.

This is a crucial step.

The argument that donors are waiting for the city to commit is a chicken-or-the-egg; but it seems more like SPAF is being chicken.

The city and Sarasota County have done their parts with the TIF.

The SPAF should be a leading public promoter and catalyst. And the best way to create confidence would be for the SPAF to come forward with signature pledges and contributions.

That is standard procedure in major fundraising. Look at the $50 million contribution last month to the Sarasota Orchestra’s efforts. When Miami began efforts to develop a performing arts center, philanthropist Adrienne Arsht contributed $30 million. David Straz Jr. donated an estimated $25 million to the Straz Performing Arts Center in Tampa. The Dr. Phillips Foundation contributed $25 million when Orlando began its development of the Dr. Phillips Center.

■ 4) Who is in charge?

This goes back to alignment. You could see throughout the commission meeting the gaps that existed among commissioners, city staff and the SPAF staff and board.

Commissioner Trice appeared visibly exasperated by not having information she requested from the foundation. The foundation relied repeatedly on consultants. Some might say the architects have been guiding the process — or had blank-check influence. Jennifer Jorgensen, the city’s capable director of governmental affairs, has been a ping-pong ball (with little to no authority) bouncing in between the commissioners and SPAF.

All of this is a symptom of a leader-less operation. There is no general in charge.

Indeed, try crafting an organizational chart.

Likewise, imagine this process as a multi-faceted business enterprise, much like the Walt Disney Co. — with its theme parks, film and live theater productions and film and theater productions within its parks.

At the top of this organizational chart is a board of directors in charge of company policy and endorsing (or refining) the CEO’s strategy for growth and the CEO’s efficient and ethical leadership and management of operations.

The CEO reports to the board, and the board lets the CEO execute the strategy — all along the way keeping the directors informed of progress.

Key point: There is more to “this” than a new performing arts center.

“This” is all 53 bayfront acres — The Bay Park, Van Wezel Perform-

“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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ing Arts Hall, the Sarasota Performing Arts Center, parking, boat ramp, utilities an on and on.

There should be a CEO-like leader overseeing the entire 53 acres, a person who is adept at creating coalitions among public and private groups and also a leader adept at executing the mission. A leader with a proven record.

The leader of this enterprise would create an organization with manager/leaders of the requisite departments. Likewise, there would be an executive leadership team that connects the partners — e.g. Jorgensen, Castroverde Moskalenko, Van Wezel Director Mary Bensel, Lynn Singleton, the founder of Professional Facilities Management and one of the most respected arts facilities operators in the U.S.

Another key point: The Bay ParkSPAC leader should not be the new city manager. While that person is the city’s CEO, it would be a recipe for failure to expect a new city manager to learn, lead and manage every aspect of the city while at the same time oversee everything occurring on those priceless 53 acres.

It makes sense that the point person for the Bay Park/SPAC would report to the city manager, who in turn is the conduit to city commissioners. There is an immutable maxim in business: Every project, every venture, every business needs a champion. Up to now, the performing arts center has had no singular champion in charge, no one person creating coalitiona and alignment and pushing everyone and the process forward in the same direction. It needs that champion — now.

Obvious choice: AG Lafley, CEO of the Bay Park Conservancy.

For the past six years, Lafley has been leading successfully and within budget the development of the Bay Park and Bay Park Conservancy, all the while keeping city commissioners and city staff informed and aligned. He is intimately familiar with every aspect of those 53 bayfront acres. And he is intimately familiar with this type of project. Lafley served as chairman of the Cincinnati Center City Development Corp. (3CDC) in the early 2000s, a private nonprofit that has invested more than $2.5 billion to transform that city’s Fountain Square and riverfront into a park and entertainment hub that now attracts more than two million visitors a year.

And, by the way, Lafley also knows a little something about business, budgets, accountability and leadership. In his previous life, he gained some experience (11 years) as chairman and CEO (twice) of a tiny $70 billion (annual revenues), 127,000-employee worldwide company you may have heard of — Proctor & Gamble.

Altogether, if this lifetime legacy project is to continue moving forward — and it should — this reboot is paramount. It is urgent. It’s buying time to organize; set priorities and cost limits; examine what has worked and what hasn’t; recast the design for the future, as well as its location in the park; set a defined structure and course; and have a champion leading the mission.

All of that would create confidence and enthusiasm for a successful civic undertaking that will stand as a regional treasure and an iconic emblem of who and what Sarasota is for the next 50 years.

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NOW AND NEVER AGAIN.

Step inside to bayfront residences unequaled in Sarasota, perhaps because they open to a panorama of the city’s entire skyline. Here is a stage for expansive living — a breathtaking esplanade, pool terrace, and perhaps, a berth for your boat. This is that once-and-forever moment. Now accepting reservations.

Gus Swoboda passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Friday, March 14, 2025. We will miss him, but we will find solace in a life well lived. His 9-year battle with Parkinson’s disease is finally over. He can now join his wife Penny in heaven.

Jelmer Gus Swoboda was born April 20, 1935 in Bluegrass, North Dakota to Adolph and Madge Schwab Swoboda. He attended high school in Hazen and Richardton, North Dakota. He graduated from Bismarck Junior College and served two years in the US Army -101st Airborne. He said his years in the Army were the best two-year learning experience of his life. After his service in the Army, Gus graduated from the University of Wisconsin -Madison in 1959 with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering.

Upon graduation from college, Gus signed on with Wisconsin Public Service Corporation and worked there for 38+ years. His career started in Sheboygan as a gas engineer, moving on to stops in Rhinelander, Two Rivers, Oshkosh, Stevens Point, Marinette and ending in Green Bay. He retired in 1997 as a senior vice president. He was very grateful to have worked for the same company throughout his

career and enjoyed the great mentors and teammates that he worked with along the way.

Gus met the love of his life Penny, while they were both working at Wisconsin Public Service in Rhinelander, WI. They were married shortly after in 1963. They enjoyed the next 48 years together living life to the fullest. They treasured the friendships they formed over the years. Gus attributed much of his success to Penny’s influence and support. She preceded

him in death in 2011. Gus took great pleasure in volunteering his time to improve the communities he lived in. He participated in numerous activities including the Chamber of Commerce, Rotary, Kiwanis, the Neville Public Museum, the United Way, the Green Bay Botanical Garden and the YMCA. Gus served on the board of directors of the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame, Neighborhood Housing Services, First Northern Savings, Bank

Mutual, American Medical Security, University of Wisconsin Green Bay Founders Association, and Pelican Harbour Condo Association. His Catholic faith was a significant part of his life. He was actively involved in his parish in Green Bay, serving as a trustee at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral and as an active men’s club member at St. Mary Star of The Sea in Longboat Key, FL.

Gus enjoyed running, golfing, pickleball, fishing, and hunting. He cherished

many years of whitetail deer hunts in Amherst Junction, WI, with his longtime friends the Ellingsons along with his mule deer and elk hunting trips in Montana with Ken Ward and friends. He loved spending time with his family and friends at his cottage on the bay of Green Bay and at his condo on Longboat Key, FL. He particularly valued attending family reunions with both the Swoboda and Schwab families in North Dakota. Gus received many accolades for his life accomplishments, but the most important reward was his close loving family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was proud of all of them and made a strong effort to develop his relationship with each of them. He had a quiet confidence about him and always tried to exhibit a positive attitude in his support of his family. He is survived by his daughters, Renee (Mike) Vanden Busch, Nicole (Ayham) AlBoushi & Andrea (Tim) Swoboda.

His grandchildren: Wally (Camilla) Vanden Busch, Nate (Brianna) Vanden Busch, Najah (Kinto) AlBoushi, Zaina AlBoushi, Gwen Dahlin, Gus (Breigh) Dahlin, Max Dahlin, Lex Dahlin, Eddie Dahlin and his great grandchildren: Haxton and Hazel Dahlin and Gus Vanden Busch. He is also survived by his step grandchildren Cassie Kubale, Zak Kubale and Noah Kubale, his sister, JoAnn Nestrud, brother-inlaw, Barry Wilson, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friend Julie Brogan.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Penny, his parents and in-laws John & Gladys Pommerening, siblings Jerry (Luella) Swoboda, Joyce (Dan) Wessley, Justine Wilson, Jeff Swoboda and other extended family. Gus will be missed by his family and friends, neighbors, and colleagues that he met on his life journey. He was a kind-hearted man who impacted this world in a very positive way. Gus’s family would like to thank his caregivers and friends at the Bellevue Retirement Community, Unity Hospice, and Bellin Hospital 1 South. You helped make his last few months and days safe, comfortable, and peaceful. We appreciate the care you provided Gus and the support and guidance you provided to our family..

SERVICE:

Visitation will be on Thursday March 27, 2025 from 9:00am – 10:45am at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, 140 S Monroe Ave., Green Bay, WI. Funeral mass to follow

Dive into Daily Crossword Fun!

FRIDAY, MARCH 14 NEIGHBORLY

12:45 a.m., 500 block of Lyons Lane

Suspicious Incident: A resident said she heard someone talking outside of her residence and believed people were trying to enter through a back door. When police responded, they canvassed the area but did not see anything out of the ordinary. However, they discovered a neighbor had recently arrived home, and the vehicle was still warm to the touch. The complainant confirmed it was in the neighbor’s direction where she heard someone talking, which may have been the cause.

SUNDAY, MARCH 16

NEEDED TO BE ON THE LIST

9:32 p.m., 600 block of Bay Isles Parkway Disturbance: A security guard contacted emergency dispatch to report a disturbance with a man attempting to get through the security gate without permission. Upon arrival, a Longboat Key officer met with the security guard, who explained the male driver was denied entrance because he was not on the vendor list. The man initially refused to leave but eventually did, only to return multiple times, allegedly. The officer spoke with the male driver, who identified himself as a driver for many elderly residents inside the community, claiming his name should be on the list. The driver ended up calling one of his clients, who added the driver to the vendor list so he could proceed through the gates. The security guard gave the driver a pass to enter the gate and smooth over the issue.

MONDAY, MARCH 17

NO LOCKSMITH NECESSARY

12:30 p.m., 500 block of Norton Street Citizen Assist: A resident called after she locked herself out of her residence and misplaced her keys. She requested assistance, and an officer could enter the residence through an unlocked window after verifying her identity and residence with her driver’s license.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19

DODGING TRAFFIC

6:33 p.m., 6000 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Reckless Driver: A concerned citizen called to report a reckless driver with a ladder protruding from an open trunk while he was “driving erratically and passing in a no passing zone.” The citizen pointed out the truck in traffic when an officer arrived on the scene. After pointing out the vehicle, the complainant said he did not have time to give a statement since he was on his way to a dinner and was already late. He briefly explained the situation to the officer but refused to give a longer or written statement. The officer then spoke to the alleged erratic driver, who said traf fic backed up and delayed him for a long time, and he admitted to passing one vehicle but said it was not in a reckless manner. The officer asked the

MONDAY, MARCH 17

ERRATIC EXTINGUISHER USE

3 a.m., 200 block of Sands Point Road

Suspicious Incident: A local resort contacted police in response to a fire extinguisher being used in the building. Longboat Key Fire Rescue had also responded to the scene to respond to a fire alarm call, and the department told the resort that someone must have taken a fire extinguisher out from the glass case, which triggered the alarm. Resort staff found the fire extinguisher used in an elevator room and the pin was across the room, indicating someone had used it. The Longboat Key Police Department documented the suspicious incident, but a lack of security cameras in the elevator room left no suspects.

driver to place a flag on the ladder for safety, which he did. The officer reminded him not to pass in a no passing zone and warned about reckless driving.

THURSDAY, MARCH 20 TRAFFIC SOLUTIONS REQUESTED

6:57 p.m., 3300 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive

Citizen Assist: A citizen called 911 and wanted officers to solve the traffic delay on the island, which prompted dispatching a Longboat Key officer. The responding officer tried calling the complainant, who refused to answer. No officers were required for the “incident,” though, since the severe backup was determined to be normal seasonal traffic.

& WELLNESS

March is an important month to eat, sleep and be healthy

All three subjects are a part of National awareness celebrations and aid in disease prevention.

MIRABAI HOLLAND CONTRIBUTOR

March is a biggie for health awareness. It’s National Nutrition month, and right in the middle we’ve got National Sleep Awareness Week. Lots of awareness this month. And in case you weren’t aware of it, sleep and nutrition closely intertwine. The right combination plays a crucial role in disease prevention, weight management, and overall health and longevity.

QUALITY SLEEP

It’s important to try for about seven hours of restful sleep a night. Studies show sleep deprivation sets in for those who get fewer than seven regularly.

Being sleep deprived contributes to major health issues such as heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes and kidney disease. It’s a major factor in obesity and depression.

Chronic sleep deprivation can affect your brain function, and can contribute to an increased risk of dementia.

But getting too much sleep can be as bad as not enough. More than nine hours of sleep a night is associated with many of the same chronic illnesses that come with too little sleep.

Just like everything else in life, balance is the key.

NUTRITION AND SLEEP

What you eat and when you eat it can have a profound impact on your quality of sleep, on maintaining a healthy weight and ultimately your health and longevity. Quality sleep helps regulate your blood pressure. It promotes heart and brain health, helps stabilize your mood, your metabolism and your energy level.

A healthy diet of real food that avoids junk can be a major factor in how well you sleep.

Nutrients like tryptophan in foods like poultry, eggs and dairy and magnesium from leafy green vegetables and nuts, and melatonin found in cherries and berries

eaten during the day a few hours before bedtime, promote quality uninterrupted sleep.

Timing your meals on as regular a schedule as possible and eating smaller lighter meals at dinnertime can help you form consistent sleep patterns. Plant-based foods like whole grains, fruits and veggies are full of antioxidants and healthier monounsaturated fats can help give you a peaceful sleep. Avoid stimulants like caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime. They can wreak havoc with your sleep pattern. Stay away from saturated fats, refined carbs like white bread and pasta at dinner. These will have you waking up in the middle of the night. And eating too many calories can lead to sleep apnea. Alcohol, within a couple hours of bedtime, will get you up in the middle of the night. Clearly, nutrition can have a tremendous impact on how much sleep and the quality of the sleep you get. But it also works the other way around.

Sleep deprivation can lead to increased production of stress hormones, like cortisol, that make you crave stuff that’s bad for you like too much fat, sugar and salt.

Sleep deprivation can disrupt the balance of ghrelin, the “I’m hungry hormone” and leptin, the “I’m full” hormone. When your ghrelin is up, you’ll feel hungry and stressed. You crave junk and you’ll eat more of the wrong things and probably gain weight.

Poor eating habits caused by poor quality sleep lead to deficiencies in vitamins and other

micronutrients like iron that are essential for bodily functions. It can impair your body’s metabolism and lead to metabolic issues like diabetes.

MOVE

Regular exercise can help with both sleep and nutrition. It promotes quality sleep and healthy eating habits.

Exercising during the day, but not within three hours of bedtime, helps reduce the time it takes you to get to sleep and helps you stay asleep.

It helps regulate your circadian rhythm, your natural nightly sleep cycle. It reduces stress that causes sleeplessness.

Getting on a regular exercise program that includes 30-plus minutes of cardio, at least 20 minutes strength training and stretching the muscles you worked three to five days per week will get you fit, give you more energy for life, keep stress at bay, help you sleep like a baby and promote overall health and longevity. Investing your time and energy in regular workouts gives you an incentive to eat better and eat less. Your body naturally craves more nutritious foods after exercise, and junk is less appealing. Exercise improves your digestion and nutrient absorption.

You can see how interconnected this all is. It’s not just this or that. It’s about building a healthy lifestyle one small change at a time and balancing. I hope I haven’t put you to sleep but rather given you a head start on a healthier approach to eating, sleeping and moving.

WORSHIP directory

Visit Sarasota launches campaign marketing keys

The ‘Keys are Calling’ marketing campaign will be seen around the region and United States.

ELIZABETH KING BUSINESS OBSERVER

Visit Sarasota has launched a multipronged marketing campaign to promote the keys in Sarasota County as a destination. The campaign will run on social media and through digital ads from mid-March through early summer.

“March is traditionally the busiest month of ‘tourism season’ — and our aim with this campaign is to keep our region’s elevated sense of hospitality top-of-mind and our businesses first-in-line to welcome the tens of thousands of visitors who choose our community as their home away from home,”

Erin Duggan, president and CEO of Visit Sarasota County, says in a statement.

Sarasota County welcomed almost 160,000 visitors who stayed in paid accommodations in March 2024, tourism officials say. About 80% of tourists visited the beach during their stay.

Part of the goal of the campaign is to provide a boost for the barrier islands following the hurricanes.

“After months of resilience and rallying, Sarasota County’s barrier islands are in a strong place and ready to welcome visitors,” Duggan says, introducing the “Keys are Calling” campaign.

From March through early summer, Visit Sarasota County plans to run social media storytelling campaigns and digital ads that feature “hidden gems and longtime favorites,” from Lido and Longboat to Siesta, Casey and Manasota keys as well as the island of Venice. The intent is to “promote countywide exploration for tourists and residents alike,” according to Visit Sarasota.

Digital ads will run in a variety of “drive markets” (Atlanta, Tampa/ St. Pete, Orlando/Daytona/Melbourne, Miami/Fort Lauderdale and Fort Myers/Naples) in addition to “fly markets” (Boston; New York; Chicago; Philadelphia; Columbus; Baltimore; Indianapolis; Pittsburgh; Cleveland; Detroit; Washington, D.C.), according to Hunter Carpenter, spokesperson for Visit Sarasota.

Visit Sarasota is working with local influencers and content creators as well as businesses to fuel its campaigns, according to Car-

penter. The spotlight is on beaches, shops, restaurants and surrounding experiences.

“We want our local businesses — especially those on the keys and barriers islands — to know that Visit Sarasota County is actively promoting them, even as some may still be recovering or are surrounded by businesses in recovery,” Carpenter says. “Our goal remains to support and showcase them during this time, particularly as perception issues about storm damage persist at a national level. Instead of focusing on the storms, we’re reminding travelers why they fell in love with Siesta Key, Longboat Key, and beyond in the first place, with upbeat, visually engaging content that highlights the fun, beauty, and experiences of Sarasota’s islands.” Tourism officials also say they are looking to build on the recent momentum around Siesta and Longboat keys, both of which received media accolades in recent months; Siesta Beach was named the No. 4 beach in the world by TripAdvisor, Longboat Key was No. 1 on Travel + Leisure’s 10 best islands to visit in the South list, and Forbes also recognized Longboat Key on its Top 12 Destinations for 2025 list. Visit Sarasota reports it is using funds from a Visit Florida grant and the Tourist Development Tax to cover its campaign, which will cost more than $230,000 and translate into dollars spent in the local economy; in March 2024, visitors generated more than $232.64 million in expenditures in Sarasota County.

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FRIENDLY FACES, FRIENDLIER CLUBS

DANA KAMPA STAFF WRITER

With plans for a new library on Longboat Key in the works, community members have been reflecting on what valuable services libraries provide. More than providing affordable access to educational and entertaining material, they act as a core for social gatherings.

Volunteers at the current Longboat Library are working to do even more for community members this season. The library has enough workers to extend its open hours to all five weekdays through April, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The schedule returns to Tuesdays and Fridays in May.

Volunteer Alice Edwards said that is not the only exciting news on the horizon. The library is also working to establish a “Friends of the Longboat Library” group.

These volunteer-run, nonprofit friends groups help organize funding and other support for museums, zoos and, of course, libraries.

“The aim is that will be there to

help fill any gaps with fundraising, support the library staff themselves, and make the public aware of what is going on in the library,” she said.

Edwards said their volunteers visited the William H. Jervey, Jr. Venice Library for inspiration from its “friends” group.

“They were extremely helpful,” she said. “They have the most successful fundraising friends group within Sarasota County.”

She said Venice staffers are now planning a visit to the Key to further assist the library in establishing its own group.

Much remains to be seen about the future of the Longboat Library, which is nearly 70 years old and run by about 50 volunteers.

A group of women first opened the library in a local storefront in 1957, and community members have celebrated its years of continuous service to Longboat Key ever since.

Edwards has personally been working at the library since 2021, inspired by her background as a preschool teacher who loved reading books to her students.

While Longboat Library awaits news of plans for a new library facility on the Key, members are working to establish a ‘Friends of’ library support group.

JOIN THE LIBRARY

Annual membership at the library is $25, and lifetime memberships are $350.

COUNTY LIBRARY ENHANCEMENTS

Sarasota County recently pledged to fund $11.1 million to construct a new public library of about 8,780 square feet on the Key. However, planners have an end-of-April deadline to raise $3.5 million for Key residents’ desired enhancements.

The envisioned expanded plan would include a larger meeting space and covered terrace. But the county said those additions would have to be covered by private donations.

“We don’t know yet what space we will have within the new library,” Edwards said.

While county employees will staff the new library, Edwards said she hopes current volunteers will run an onsite bookstore, like the Selby Friends Bookstore. She would be the organizer setting up the bookstore if it is included in the final blueprint. She said the library’s current book sales particularly appeal to vacationers seeking a good beach read, especially at its affordable price points.

“It’s amazing how popular that section is,” she said. “They don’t want to go off island to find a book, and nowhere else resells books here.”

She added, “We occasionally get very gracious people who buy a year’s membership just because they’re here for two weeks.”

Until plans are finalized, Longboat Library will continue to serve as the island’s library facility. Edwards noted the library supports its operations through its book sales and membership fees, but a friends group could help bolster support.

Edwards predicts many of the Longboat Library volunteers will also step up to help run the friends group, but they welcome any new volunteers as well.

CINEMA UNDER THE STARS

slight chill in the air had patrons cozied up with their blankets as they

in “Top Gun: Maverick” on Friday night at the Longboat Key Garden Club’s latest fundraiser.

The club has set its sights on facilitating post-hurricane restoration and beautification projects, specifically focusing on parks and public places, including Longboat Key Town Hall.

With that goal in mind, club members invited the public to its ninth installment of “Dinner and a Movie” at Bayfront Park.

Supporters partook in a meal catered by Chef Caldwell’s Catering and a live auction, all while being serenaded by guitarist Akiem Esdaile.

Auctioneer Jim Smith, who has conducted the bidding for several years at the movie nights, noted that fundraising for the Garden Club is always important, but especially so to support the storm recovery.

“Everyone has been affected by it,” he added.

Stephanie McKee and John Newman welcomed visitors, and McKee said the movie night is always a great opportunity for community members to get together and have a good time.

The club has several exciting events coming up, including a trip to Mindful Blooms Farm in Myakka City on April 10. Visit LBKGardenClub.org/events to learn more.

— DANA KAMPA

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Backpacking a difference

Longboat Key Chapel accepting backpack donations throughout the month for the Sarasota-based All Star Children’s Foundation.

DANA KAMPA STAFF WRITER

One Longboater’s altruism started a chain of giving with Longboat Key Chapel’s latest “Gather and Give” fundraiser, and the church hopes that spirit will continue as it gathers backpacks to support the mission of All Star Children’s Foundation.

Renee Lynch recently took to Facebook Marketplace to buy two backpacks for the fundraiser. She chatted with the seller about the chapel’s efforts when first collecting the bags.

“Then I bought another suitcase from him, and when he came back, he brought a whole bunch and just gave them to me,” she said, noting it amounted to nine bags total.

That spirit of kindness is what continues to fuel the work at All Stars.

Chief Advancement Officer Stephen Fancher spoke to attendees at the fundraiser, explaining besides key federal, state and county funding, community donations are essential to the staff’s efforts to improve the foster care system.

This Sarasota-based organization focuses on early intervention for children entering the system. Fancher described how its innovative approach to meeting kids’ needs is revolutionizing the system and inspiring similar efforts across the country.

Fancher is no stranger to Longboat Key Chapel, where he often plays the piano with the choir.

He said this drive specifically focuses on backpacks so incoming kids can have something more personal and durable to hold the few belongings they take from a bad situation, belongings that often end up in garbage bags as the kids move from place to place.

Officials try to only remove kids from home as a last resort, after trying to find a placement with a family

HOW TO SUPPORT

For more information about how to volunteer with or donate to All Star Children’s Foundation, visit AllStarChildren.org/GetInvolved. The chapel is collecting backpacks for the rest of the month. Call 941-383-6491 with questions.

member or other remedy, Fancher said. But sometimes it is unavoidable.

He said kids often go through secondary trauma when they have to leave their homes with no notice, get in a police car, and often separate from their siblings. But when they get to the All Star campus, they take the first step toward healing.

All 30 beds in the six residential homes are currently full, but the campus continues to offer outpatient services to the community.

Whether they eventually return to their original home or go on to a new foster family, they can take comfort in packing their own bags to take with them.

“This is the first step into foster care for them, and you guys are providing like a warm blanket,” he said.

FASHION PLATES

Planning a high-end community fashion show is no small undertaking. In fact, event Chair Gwen Wallin said she only hosts “Couture for the Cure” every other year because it takes that much time to prepare.

She has to fold the baby pink cloth napkins into roses, prep fabulous auction items — 37 of them — for bidding, time an elegant lunch catered by Harry’s Continental Kitchen and help the lovely volunteer models get ready to strut their stuff.

But there’s merit to every carefully curated detail, as the greater success the fashion show, the more she can raise for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. The fight for a cure is personal for Wallin, whose daughter, Carley Jones, received an MS diagnosis while she was attending college.

“Multiple sclerosis mostly hits women, and often at that age,” she explained.

Jones is enjoying married life in Colorado with her two children and wasn’t able to attend.

With the support of chief assistant Sherry Bock, event designer Jane Hunter and fellow committee members, Wallin orchestrated the March 19 show at Longboat Harbour Condominium, drawing delighted smiles from attendees as they cheered on the models.

Displaying outfits planned by Kim Rummel of Sara Campbell, the six women each modeled three

looks, complete with bag and shawl accessories.

This year’s lineup included Margarita Lenk, Linda Herrick, Mary Beth Schiavone, Patti Guido, Cindy Sommer and Linda DiOrio.

Wallin said more than 100 people showed out to support the cause. She noted there is still no cure for the disease, which causes the immune system to attack the nerve fiber’s protective sheath. However, research has progressed in managing symptoms, and she hopes one day soon experts will find a cure.

— DANA KAMPA

Tennis Center women end season

Spirits and wind speeds were high as the women of the Longboat Key Public Tennis Center’s scene partook in some holidayinspired frivolity to celebrate the end of the season.

Split into two teams, the tennis players joined some friendly but fierce competition in several rounds of skills-based games.

Jackie Gibbins, one of the board directors of the Friends of Tennis and event orchestrators with Sandy Schonhoff, said the group typically plans its fun day at the beginning of the busy season, giving everyone time to catch up from any travel.

However, the October hurricanes delayed the get-together, which was rescheduled to March 17 and embraced a St. Patrick’s Day theme.

The teams squared off for points in best costume, best skit and the various physical challenges.

Gibbins put them through their paces. Participants had to attempt catching a tennis ball in a small cone, volleying the ball to their teammates multiple times before attempting to score and playing in doubles pairs.

While everyone got in the competitive spirit, they agreed it was all in good fun.

Attendees said they especially enjoyed the song and dance prepared by Ellen Zimmerman.

— DANA KAMPA

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Arts in April aims to unite community

DANA KAMPA STAFF WRITER

Anew source of artistic inspiration is coming to Longboat Key for the first time this year under a new umbrella. This celebration, titled Arts in April, features four main events throughout the month.

Some may be familiar with the town of Longboat Key’s artist exhibition, which it has held previously for many years. But this year will be an even bigger affair, featuring a variety of talents.

Susan Phillips, assistant to the town manager and public information officer, explained this event aims to bring people together and support local artists.

It all begins on April 3, when members of the public can stroll through the outdoor gardens at Longboat Island Chapel to view the works of 11 professional artists.

Entry is free, and visitors can patronize on-site food trucks while enjoying live music and taking in the art. The Longboat Key Garden Club joins the chapel in sponsoring the event.

Phillips said organizers drew inspiration from the chapel’s popular Christmas in the Garden. Artists may even have some live demonstrations, she said.

“We’ve had ideas of expanding the art program to something else for a while,” she said. “Between the art exhibit, the Savor the Sounds concert, and the other events, the Arts in April concept just materialized.”

She said Town Manager Howard Tipton helped pull organizations together to make it a month-long celebration.

The artists who will be displaying their works include Marie Therese Lacroix, Angela Thierman, Barbara Jendrysik, Pat Lundy, Lynn Armstrong-Coffin, June Morse, Reid Gerletti, Erika Ferguson, Igor Levchenko, Collins Rowland and Mary Dice.

IF YOU GO

ARTISTS IN THE GARDEN When: 4-8 p.m. April 3 and 4; 2-8 p.m. on April 5; and noon to 4 p.m. on April 6

Where: Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive Cost: Free

Phillips noted 30% of art sales will go toward supporting the club.

Several of those artists and some other local creators will then participate in a special art exhibit and reception at Town Hall from 5-6:30 p.m. on April 10.

“Town Hall has regularly had an art exhibit here since 2003, when we built this building,” Phillips said.

“There have been 82 Town Hall art exhibits.”

Lacroix, Theirman, Jendrysik, Lundy, Armstrong-Coffin and Morse will be joined by Ena Carroll, Cheryl Taub, Lynn Wellings and Madeline Wikler at the reception.

Visitors will get the chance to chat with artists while partaking in appetizers and beverages.

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Meet the new face of events on Longboat Key

Event coordinator looks forward to offering new activities for Longboat Key.

llen Thomas has some interesting career highlights in her repertoire, from coordinating events for major brands including Wendy’s and Bacardi, to navigating the skies as a flight attendant. Now, she is bringing that experience to bear as the newest Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce staff member.

She joins the team as an events coordinator, working year-round to coordinate educational and fun events for Longboat Key denizens. Thomas shared in an interview that she appreciates the experience she’s gained in the corporate world, but now looks forward to offering her insights in a community-based position.

“It’s just the perfect time for something like this,” she said.

The Miami-born event expert has traveled extensively in her career. She first ventured into marketing with an Ohio-based job at Wendy’s

international headquarters for eight years.

“I became one of their meeting planners, and we did many programs,” she said. “(Founder) Dave Thomas was actually still there at the time, at the end of his career there. He was such a character.”

Eventually feeling the call to return to Florida, she worked for a while in Orlando before becoming a permanent resident of Sarasota in 2006, taking a position with the travel-focused media group Miles Partnership.

In that role, she offered presentations on Florida as a premier event destination on the worldwide market, focusing on “Visit Florida” marketing. As an avid beachgoer, she was glad to return to her home state.

“I didn’t know much about the west coast, but when the Miles Media job came up, I moved to Sarasota, even though I didn’t know a soul,” she said. “I’ve been here ever since.”

Thomas said she is eager to collaborate with local organizations like the Humane Society of Sarasota County, especially considering she has a rescue dog — Miss Boca, a papillon and long-haired Chihuahua mix.

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SATURDAY, MARCH

6-10 p.m.

immerse themselves in gourmet cuisine, open-bar cocktails, live music, dancing and spectacular circus-inspired performances at its Under the Big Top gala. Tickets are $250 and sponsorships are available.

SUNDAY, MARCH 30

EMBRACE THE KALEIDOSCOPE

7:30-8:30 p.m. at The Education Center, 567 Bay Isles Road. Enjoy an evening of music with clarinetist Sergey Gutorov and pianist Jessé Martins, emulating classic international artists including Francis Poulenc, Carl Maria von Weber, Giuseppe Verdi, Béla Kovács and Astor Piazzolla. Meet the musicians after the event at a champagne reception. Registration required. Call 941-383-8222, email Admin@TBIEducationCenter. org or visit TBIEducationCenter.org.

RECURRING EVENTS

MONDAYS

MARKET ON THE KEY

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. first and third Mondays at the Town Center Green, 600 Bay Isles Road. The outdoor market features local artists, vendors of all types and food, continuing through April. Call 941-289-4141.

STRETCH AND STRENGTHEN

10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. This class is mostly seated and great for all fitness levels. The focus is on strength training and flexibility for balance. Suzy Brenner leads the class. Fee is $20. Walk-ins welcome. Call 3836493.

TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS

PILATES SCULPT

9-9:50 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Pilates Sculpt is a combination class mixing traditional Pilates exercises into a fun, challenging workout to upbeat music. It will make you sweat, encourage your body to burn calories and make you stronger and more flexible. This class is for all levels. Cost is $20. Walk-ins welcome. Call 941-383-6493.

YOGA

11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Debby Debile of Feel Good Yoga & Massage leads a gentle yoga class that can be done on a mat or in a chair. Cost is $20. Call 941-383-6493.

FRIDAYS UP YOUR TAI CHI SKILLS

10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Instructor Reuben Fernandez leads a weekly intermediate tai chi class, held outdoors when weather permits. Fernandez also leads a beginner class at 10 a.m. on Wednesdays, but builds off those skills with a focus on Chen Style, Lao Ca Dija. It’s recommended to wear close-toed shoes with

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Winding Oaks condo tops week’s sales at $1,195,000

ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR

Noelle and Kevin Sheehan, trustees, of Wayzata, Minnesota, sold the Unit 14 condominium at 3427 Winding Oaks Drive to Laura Thomas Deane, of Annapolis, Maryland, for $1,195,000. Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,555 square feet of living area. It sold for $840,000 in 2020.

WESTCHESTER

R. Hunter Graves, trustee, sold

Unit 302 condominium at 4825 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Daniel Abel, of Morgantown, West Virginia, for $1.17 million. Built in 1970, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 1,393 square feet of living area. It sold for $410,000 in 2012.

BEACHPLACE

Stanley and Barbara Brown, of Beachwood, Ohio, sold their Unit 603 condominium at 1105 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Michael and Janice Maly, of Ada, Michigan, for $1 million. Built in 1981, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,503 square feet of living area. It sold for $400,000 in 1998.

Richard and Bonnie Berner, of Rye Brook, New York, sold their Unit 104 condominium at 1065 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Kenneth and Irina Lehat, of Great Neck, New York, for $762,500. Built in 1981, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,503 square feet of living area. It sold for $475,000 in 2016.

GRAND BAY

Walter Frank, trustee, of Sarasota, sold the Unit 625 condominium at

3070 Grand Bay Blvd. to Bryan and Kimberly Lane, of Grosse Pointe, Michigan, for $765,000. Built in 1995, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,276 square feet of living area. It sold for $625,000 in 2015.

CLUB LONGBOAT BEACH AND TENNIS

Lynne Baker, trustee, of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, sold the Unit 424 condominium at 5055 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Carl Fredrik Skoglund and Heather Walsh, of Bethesda, Maryland, for $670,000. Built in 1973, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,484 square feet of living area. It sold for $240,000 in 1997.

HARBOUR OAKS AT LONGBOAT

KEY CLUB

Janice Berman and Rainer Krautwald, of Morton Grove, Illinois, sold their Unit 304 condominium at 2215 Harbourside Drive to Gary and Wendi O’Hara, of Longboat Key, for

TOP BUILDING PERMITS

$625,000. Built in 1984, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,906 square feet of living area. It sold for $359,000 in 2020.

INN ON THE BEACH

Jane Pattison sold the Unit 6103 condominium at 225 Sands Point Road to Gary Todd, trustee, of Wellesley, Massachusetts, for $560,000. Built in 1983, it has one bedroom, one bath and 642 square feet of living area. It sold for $335,000 in 2014.

LONGBOAT BEACHCOMBER

William Jochens, trustee, of St.

Louis, sold the Unit 607 condominium at 2721 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Matilda Xhediku, Diell Xhediku and Shend Xhediku, of Longboat Key, for $457,500. Built in 1970, it has one bedroom, one bath and 675 square feet of living area. It sold for $87,500 in 1992.

See more transactions at YourObserver.com

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