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SRQ DAILY Nov 25, 2024

Monday Business Edition

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Monday Business Edition

"It has become my mission to combat these fraudulent practices and help preserve the affordability of our community for those who have lived here for generations."

- Melissa McLin, Co-owner, Blue Collar Roofing.
 

[Real Estate]  Homes Prices Drop As Market Stabilizes
Jacob Ogles, jacob.ogles@srqme.com

The real estate market showed distinct signs of cooling down in October, according to the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee.

In the two-county area, the median price of single-family homes sold during the month dropped to less than $484,000, roughly a 1.3% decline from October 2023. The average declined to more than $631,000, a 6.8% decline from the same month last year. Meanwhile, only 985 homes were sold in October, compared to 1,147 sold in October 2023, a 14.1% drop in the number of closed sales.

Condo and townhome sales saw an even sharper decline in median price, which dropped 10.8% in October to less than $350,000. That said, the high number of luxury units coming online helped the average condo price skyrocket more than 61% to nearly $834,000. But the market only saw 362 sales close in the two counties, down 21.5% from the 461 closed deals the prior October.

The change in pricing may disappoint sellers, especially with the median time to contract leaping to 75 days for home sales and 65 days for condos. But the Realtor Association said the change should be viewed as a market stabilizing. 

"The latest marketing reports continue to show a stabilization in the market, month after month,” said Tony Barrett, Realtor Association President and Broker/Owner of Barrett Realty.

“A decrease in median home prices or longer days on the market shouldn’t be seen as a setback, but rather as an opportunity for adjustment. Like any investment, the market experiences ups and downs, but we are holding steady with relatively minor fluctuations in the numbers, moving towards a more normalized market."

Experts typically say a six-month inventory of listings represents a balanced market. The two-county area has a 4.3-month inventory of homes, still a seller’s market, a near-balanced 5.7-month inventory of condos.  

Graphic courtesy Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee.

[Hurricane ]  Competing Roofing Companies Join Forces to Combat Scams
Barbie Heit, barbie.heit@srqme.com

After a devastating hurricane season, roofing companies in Manatee County are joining forces to protect local residents and businesses from fraud during repairs. Led by Melissa and Kevin McLin, owners of Blue Collar Roofing, the coalition aims to prevent dishonest contractors from exploiting vulnerable homeowners.

The McLins were motivated to form this coalition after hearing a troubling story from a senior client. The client had received an initial estimate of $20,000 for roofing work, but after filing an insurance claim, the estimate was inflated to $30,000. The contractor promised a "free roof" with no out-of-pocket expenses, a clear sign of insurance fraud, where the roofing company files the claim on behalf of the homeowner and inflates the estimate to cover the deductible.

This situation deeply concerned the McLins, particularly because it could drive up insurance rates for the general public. “As a lifelong resident of the area with most of my family living here, I fear that rising insurance costs could make it impossible for people, especially long-time residents, to afford their homes. It has become my mission to combat these fraudulent practices and help preserve the affordability of our community for those who have lived here for generations.”

To protect the community, the McLins have created a coalition of reputable roofing companies, including Blue Collar Roofing, Pro Roofing Services, Blue Vision Roofing, White Peterman Roofing and Mighty Dog Roofing. While it’s uncommon for competitors to collaborate, the McLins believe protecting the community is more important than business rivalries. "Normally, we’re competing for the same jobs, but when we saw how many people were being taken advantage of, we knew it was time to work together," says Melissa.

This effort is gaining momentum, and more roofing companies are expected to join the coalition. Together, they aim to create a trusted network where homeowners can find reliable, ethical roofing services and avoid scams.

For more information or to connect with the coalition, contact Melissa and Kevin McLin at office@bluecollarroofingflorida.com or call 941-933-7663. 

Pictured: Melissa and Kevin McLin formed a coalition of local roofing companies to protect residents from roofing scams and fraud. Provided photo.

[New Store]  The Jigsaw Puzzle of Sustainable Curation at rabbit RABBIT
Solymar Estrella, solymar@srqme.com

Part of creating a vibrant and unique store is finding pieces that align with the store's vision. For rabbit RABBIT that vision is to provide their customers with sustainable pieces that catch the eye of anyone passing by. Located in the Rosemary District, rabbit RABBIT offers a space to pick up a gift made by indie artists worldwide. Everything within the store is carefully picked to ensure that products are ethically made. Amanda Gilliland, owner and creator of rabbit RABBIT shares her path of curating her pieces and aligning her business with her vision of how she wants to live in the world.

What books are you reading now that expand your business perception?

I read more for pleasure than for business. However, I have picked up some field guides that provide a deep dive into their respective areas. The blog Remodelista has been grabbing my attention recently. It is based in the Northeast and has a cozy vibe--an ideal read during the holidays to get into the mindset, even when it’s still 80 degrees outside.

Share one of your business bucket list items.

I am currently welcoming my sister as the community outreach coordinator. Being involved in the community is truly important to us–we are planning more events and giveback nights to make those connections. Supporting the community and nonprofits helps Sarasota grow. In the past, we worked with the Fabulous Arts Foundation, they are a great organization with a great mission to foster the arts while amplifying LGBTQ+ voices.

What inspired you to create rabbit RABBIT?

Starting up as a popup during COVID, I saw rabbit RABBIT as a way to do something creative and fun and I loved that it brought people together. I enjoy the journey of piecing together the sourcing, the artists, and the individual philosophies behind every piece, it is like piecing together a jigsaw puzzle. This curation process speaks to my personal philosophy, it is fun to buy gifts for yourself and others but when we do that we must think about where these things are coming from.

How do you source your items?

I go to satellite fairs that feature up-and-coming artists and designers. Also, I keep an eye out for artist's various blogs and social media platforms. With every piece that makes it to the store, I want to make sure I know where these products are being made, how they are being made and what materials are used. 

Pictured: A look inside of the vibrant rabbit RABBIT store located in the Rosemary District. Photo courtesy of Amanda Gilliland.

To learn more, visit.

[Recognition ]  Next-Mark Earns Multiple Angel Awards From the American Advertising Federation

Next-Mark, a full-service marketing and communications agency serving clients in Florida and nationwide, was honored by the American Advertising Federation (AAF) with Gold and Silver Angel Awards for their exemplary public service work with local non-profit agencies. At this year’s Angel Awards, competing in the category of Organization or Cause Promotion, Next-Mark received a Gold Angel for their work with the Henson Fund, the highest accolade awarded in a category, and a Silver Angel for their work with The Sarasota Players. View the full list of winners and the award show video at www.aafdistrict4.org/angel-awards.  

[New Hire]  Brooke Chase Associates, Inc. Recruits Angel Rodriguez as Business Development Manager for DEKS North America, Inc.

Joseph McElmeel, Chairman and CEO of executive search firm Brooke Chase Associates, Inc. is pleased to announce the successful recruitment by its Executive Recruiters, Angela Canclini and Ben Durshimer, of Angel Rodriguez as Business Development Manager for DEKS North America. Family owned until it was acquired by Skellerup Group in 2003, the company maintains a family culture that puts the customer first. DEKS North America offers same-day shipping to customers with a diverse range of products to service both the roofing and waterworks industries. 

[Retirement]  SRQ President Announces Retirement Date

The Sarasota Bradenton International Airport President and Chief Executive Officer Fredrick (Rick) Piccolo formally announced his retirement date at the SMAA Board meeting today where the engagement of a professional search firm was finalized. Piccolo will retire June 30, 2025, and continue to serve in an advisory role after that for six months. A national search will ensue utilizing the professional search firm Korn Ferry with a goal to have the new executive in place before summer. 

[Board Members]  Hospital Board Welcomes New Members, Installs 2024-2025 Officers

Sarasota Memorial Health Care System (SMH) recently welcomed two newly elected board members and congratulated two incumbent members who won re-election this month. Made up of nine citizens elected by Sarasota County voters to four-year terms, the unpaid Hospital Board is charged with setting the strategic direction of the organization and serving as good stewards of its financial resources. 

To learn more, visit.

[County News]  Sarasota County Welcomes two Newly Sworn-in Commissioners

The Sarasota County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) recognized two newly elected representatives Teresa Mast, District 1, and Tom Knight, District 3, on Tuesday, Nov. 19.  For additional information, please call 311, 941-861-5000 or visit scgov.net. 

[New Homes]  Forestar Expands Star Farms at Lakewood Ranch

Forestar Group Inc. ("Forestar"), one of the largest single-family residential community developers in the nation, announces the development of Saddlestone ­—a new neighborhood located within Star Farms at Lakewood Ranch. Saddlestone adds more than 570 acres and 1,300 homesites to Star Farms. With this new addition, Star Farms encompasses nearly 1,300 acres and 2,800 lots and establishes the community as the largest in Lakewood Ranch.  Visit www.starfarmslwr.com and join the VIP Club for the latest information. 

[Hurricane Relief]  Buchanan Introduces Disaster Tax Relief Package for Hurricane Victims

Congressman Vern Buchanan, Vice Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, announced today that he has introduced the Hurricane Milton and Helene Tax Relief Act to provide much-needed tax relief for those in his district and across the country impacted by the recent back-to-back hurricanes. Buchanan was joined by 10 House colleagues, including several members of the key tax-writing committee, as original cosponsors from Florida, Georgia and North Carolina, all of which were hard-hit by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. This legislation is cosponsored by fellow members of the Ways and Means Committee Reps. Drew Ferguson, Greg Steube, and Grey Murphy, as well as Reps. Gus Bilirakis, Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Neil Dunn, Scott Frankling, Laurel Lee, Anna Paulina Luna and Daniel Webster. 

[Arts & Entertainment]  Inaugural Living Arts Festival Concludes with Resounding Success

The inaugural Living Arts Festival by Sarasota Rising has officially wrapped up. Leaving a lasting impression on thousands of attendees who came together to celebrate resilience and creativity. From captivating performances to community art installations, the festival showcased Sarasota's enduring spirit in the wake of Hurricane Milton.  



[SOON]  BUSINESS: Lets Connect at Oscura in Old Manatee , August 31 – December 26, 8:30-10am

Connect with local business owners at every Thursday at Oscura. Lets Connect is a community of collaborative business professionals from the Manatee and Sarasota County areas. RSVP on Eventbrite to attend, admission is free.

[SOON]  FOOD: Game Watching at Pie on Main , September 10 – December 31, 11:00 am - 12:00 am

Since we opened in January, SRQ is getting to know us for our hand-tossed & crafted Pie's, Calzones, Sammies & Salads + our tasty beverages. Now you can join your buddies for what some call 'the most wonderful time of the year' - FOOTBALL SEASON! Drop in when you're strolling on Main to catch your team or join your buddies for Pie On Main's Game Watching parties, featuring Happy Hours from 4-7:00 Daily, plus our Special Sub of the Day and extensive selection of Domestic and craft taps. Ask your friendly barkeep about our Tuesday Karaoke or our sister restaurant, 3.14 Pi in Siesta Village. Convenient parking in our lot on First Street.

Pie on Main, 1507 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  HEALTH: Gentle Yoga with Manatees , October 20 – December 29, 11:00 am - 3:00 pm

Join us at The Bishop for Gentle Yoga with Manatees! Enjoy tranquil views of the manatees being cared for in the Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat while engaging in yoga poses focused on balance, flexibility, and strength. Guests will need to bring their own yoga mats. Proceeds support the rehabilitation and return of manatees to the wild. Group size is limited to 15 participants and advance registration is required. Ages 7 and up welcome!

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205

[SOON]  FOOD: Watershed Hospitality Concepts Launches our Annual Holiday Gift Card Sale Extravaganza! , November 2 – January 2

Whether they're Naughty or Nice, the Watershed Hospitality family of restaurants has the gift sure to please everyone on your Holiday list!  From Nov. 21 - Jan. 2, when you purchase $50, get a $10 Bonus or a $20 Bonus when you purchase $100.  Our GC's are good at all of our restaurants, Cask & Ale, Pie On Main, 3.14 Pi/Blase Martini Bar ...and SOON, when we cut the ribbon to welcome you to Lefty's Oyster & Seafood Bar.

Multiple Location

[SOON]  SPORTS: Two Back-To-Back Paddleboard Tournaments , November 20 – December 2

From November 20th to December 2nd, two back-to-back paddleboard tournaments will take place at Nathan Benderson Park. The holiday series will begin with the 2024 ICF Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) World Championships, followed by the 3rd Annual Last Paddler Standing SUP race. These family-friendly events will offer attendees the chance to meet with world-renowned paddlers, gain insights into the growingly popular sport, and participate in various onsite activities.

Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Cir, Sarasota, FL 34235

[SOON]  FOOD: Teacher Tuesdays , November 26 – February 25, 11:00 am - 12:00 am

Teachers + Tuesdays = 1⁄2 OFF Pie’s at Pie On Main! Every Tuesday Teachers with School ID enjoy 1/2 off Pizzas when you Dine-in with us! Convenient parking in our lot behind the restaurant. 1/2 off Pizzas with purchase of any beverage, excluding personal pizzas.

Pie on Main, 1507 Main St Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Thriving Through the Holidays with Hearing Loss , December 10, 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm

The support group is open to anyone with hearing loss, impairment, tinnitus, hearing-assisted device users and caregivers, family or friends. Free lunch is provided for attendees.

[SOON]  BUSINESS: Sarasota County Legislative Delegation Meeting , December 16, 9:00 am

If you wish to make a presentation to the Delegation, please submit a Presentation Request Form to my office by Monday, December 2nd, 2024. My office can be reached for the Form at (941) 361-2465 or via email at Andrew.Parker@myfloridahouse.gov for any additional questions.

Sarasota County Commission Chambers,, 1660 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  GALLERY: Manatee County School District Annual K-12 Exhibition , April 29 – May 23, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

ArtCenter Manatee once again joins with the School District of Manatee County to showcase the work of K-12 visual arts students. By partnering with ArtCenter Manatee, that commitment is furthered by giving these young artists a 'voice' - three museum-quality galleries, where their work can be professionally displayed and where the artists can receive positive recognition by a wider audience.

ArtCenter Manatee, 209 9th St West Bradenton, FL 34205

[SOON]  SEMINAR: DARE To C.A.R.E. , February 27, 8:30 am - 10:00 am

This annual get-together joins community and business leaders; philanthropists; non-profit agencies; foundations; and volunteers in an inspiring celebration of non-profit excellence, mission, and impact: past, present, and future! Our theme this year, DARE TO C.A.R.E.! will celebrate the power of Collaboration, Action, Responsiveness, and Evolution as we celebrate 35 years of services and impact in our community! 

Carlisle Inn, 3727 Bahia Vista St, Sarasota, FL 34232

[SOON]  SCIENCE AND NATURE: Space Saturdays , March 2 – December 7, 10am-2:30pm

Join us for Space Saturday, the first Saturday of every month, as we explore a different topic in the world of astronomy. During Space Saturdays, you will discover an out-of-this-world activity during Backyard Science, formerly Science Sprouts, in The Mosaic Backyard Universe, explore space with a staff astronomer during KidSpace in The Planetarium, and finish your day with an astronomy-themed story during Tales Under the Tree. To learn more, visit bishopscience.org.

[SOON]  FOOD: Cask & Ale's Sunday Jazz Brunch , September 15 – December 29, 11:00 am - 3:00 pm

Cask & Ale on Main Street lifts a toast to our fabulous Jazz Brunch every Sunday from 11:00-3:00.  We offer a diverse chef-prepared menu with a full spread of Brunch delectables + our rotating Chef's Special menu, Bottomless Mimosas and a wide selection of craft cocktails.  And of course, sharing the good vibes of live Jazz with you from Noon-4:00!

Cask & Ale, 1548 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical , November 16 – January 5, Various Times

Her journey was as extraordinary as her music. At eighteen, Carole King wrote number one songs for Aretha Franklin and The Drifters. At twenty-nine, she was the voice of a generation. The road along the way was full of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. It wasn’t always perfect, but it was real - and that's what made it beautiful. A smash hit on Broadway and London’s West End, this soaring and inspiring musical features two decades of King’s hits, including “You’ve Got a Friend,” “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” and “I Feel the Earth Move.”

Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34243

[SOON]  GALLERY: ArtCenter Manatee Member Exhibition , November 26 – December 27, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

An all-media open juried exhibit featuring the work of our members. Our members are the strength of ArtCenter Manatee, without which we would not exist. With that strength, comes a powerhouse of talent as each year the caliber of work continues to surpass our expectations.

Art Center Sarasota, 209 9th St West Bradenton, FL 34205

[SOON]  GALA: The Inaugural "Wonder Gala" , December 6, 6:30 pm

The fundraising event will feature compelling narratives from families whose lives have been transformed by The Florida Center, offering a glimpse into the powerful impact of its programs. The Florida Center for Early Childhood announces its inaugural “Wonder Gala,” a newly reimagined fundraiser poised to make an even greater impact than its predecessor, the Winter Gala. 

The Ora, 578 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota, FL 34232

[SOON]  MUSEUM: Life in One Cubic Foot , September 7 – January 5, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Life in One Cubic Foot features the research of Smithsonian scientists and photographer David Liittschwager as they discover what a cubic foot of land or water—a biocube— reveals about the diversity of life on our planet. Life in One Cubic Foot is organized by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service in collaboration with the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History.

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Downtown Wellen Park Night Market , August 8 – May 8, 6-9pm

The Wellen Park Night Market returns the second Thursday of each month from 6-9pm offering an evening of shopping, live music and dining under the twinkling lights of Downtown Wellen. The Night Market features independent artists and makers specializing in art, jewelry, boutique fashion, home decor, bottle art, wood designs and specialty food items set up along Wellen Park Boulevard with 50 rotating vendors. Food items included rum cakes, desserts, lemonade, barbecue and vegan fare.

Wellen Park, 19745 Wellen Pk Blvd

[SOON]  MUSEUM: Free Second Sundays , March 10 – December 8, 11am-5pm

Enjoy a day of art and family fun at Sarasota Art Museum. On the second Sunday of each month, we offer free admission for visitors, special performances, and art-making activities for the whole family. To learn more, visit sarasotaartmuseum.org.

[SOON]  FESTIVAL: The Sarasota Medieval Fair , November 2 – December 1, 10:00 am - 5:30 pm

We can already hear the sounds of the fair: the shouts of “throw wide the gates!”, laughter at our Children’s Realm, cheers during the equestrian tournaments, and the music from wandering troubadours.  And who could forget the aroma of turkey legs and kettlecorn in the air? The festival as more than just an event. The Sarasota Medieval Fair brings together local artisans, performers, and vendors, and serves as a fundraiser to multiple non-profit organizations. 

Woods of Mallaranny, 29847 FL-70 E. Myakka City, FL 34251

[SOON]  FOOD: Thanksgiving Dinner , November 28, 8:00 am - 9:00 pm

We want to let you know how thankful we are for having you as a customer. Here are a few ways we hope to make your Thanksgiving holiday special. All Mademoiselle Paris will be open for Thanksgiving day. Thanksgiving Dinner will be served at Anna Maria and UTC locations.

Mademoiselle Paris, Various Location

[SOON]  FESTIVAL: Sarasota Seafood and Music Festival , November 29 – December 1, Various Times

This seafood & music festival is created like a great meal, incorporating and blending the finest ingredients. Choose entrees (seafood, meat, and vegetarian) cooked fresh onsite. Select from a diversity of side dishes, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, and of course – scrumptious desserts! Relax to live musical performances by some of Florida’s top musical talents in such genres as R&B, blues, jazz, rock, soul, and more.

Sarasota Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34237

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Christmas Carol Trolley: Letters to Santa , December 1 – December 23, 5:30pm & 7:30pm

Discover Sarasota Tours announces our 3rd Annual Christmas Carol Trolley Letters To Santa holiday tour of music and lights running Dec 1-23rd at 5:30 and 7:30PM. This holiday favorite is a 75-minute family-friendly show filled with downtown lights, caroling down Main St., holiday stories, and heartfelt performances featuring the Trolley Troubadours, our singing ensemble of professional performers.

Discover Sarasota Tours, 1826 4th St, Sarasota, FL 34236

SRQ Media Group

SRQ DAILY is produced by SRQ | The Magazine. Note: The views and opinions expressed in the Saturday Perspectives Edition and in the Letters department of SRQ DAILY are those of the author(s) and do not imply endorsement by SRQ Media. Senior Editor Jacob Ogles edits the Saturday Perspective Edition, Letters and Guest Contributor columns.In the CocoTele department, SRQ DAILY is providing excerpts from news releases as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by SRQ DAILY. The views expressed by individuals are their own and their appearance in this section does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. For rates on SRQ DAILY banner advertising and sponsored content opportunities, please contact Ashley Ryan Cannon at 941-365-7702 x211 or via email

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