It was a moment of celebration and record-breaking generosity this week as the Longboat Key Kiwanis Club presented the proceeds from their 2025 Lawn Party by the Bay.
Pictured here is the official check presentation, a snapshot that captures the culmination of a massive community effort. While the oversized check displays an impressive $103,900, the club announced that the total “Lawn Party Impact” actually soared to a record-setting $123,900.
Club leadership clarified that the final total includes two significant direct contributions made to the Children’s Guardian Fund that accompanied the main check: a $15,000 match from The Carter, and an additional $5,000 donation from Ken Schneier and Cynthia Craig. This $5,000 gift was a bonus contribution, separate from their already generous Platinum Sponsorship.
A Community Effort
Organizers noted that this year’s success was driven by “100% participation”
from the Kiwanis Club members, who contributed time, talent, and treasure to make the event happen.
“It was a pleasure working with Michael Garey and the entire Kiwanis Club of Longboat Key team to make December’s Lawn Party such a success,” said Danielle Gladding, President of the Kiwanis Club of Longboat Key. “As chair of the event, Michael deserves the main credit—he led with incredible dedication and energy. At the same time, it was truly a team effort from the whole Kiwanis Club that made this the amazing success it was.”
Michael Garey, owner of the Lazy Lobster on Longboat Key and the event Chair, was equally elated by the outcome, crediting Gladding’s leadership for sparking the momentum.
“While I’ve had the privilege of chairing the Lawn Party, this was absolutely a team effort in every sense of the word,” Garey said. “Danielle’s leadership as President—in getting people involved, her outstanding social media efforts, and the enthusiasm she inspired in our Club—was instrumental in making this year’s Lawn Party special. The record-setting impact for the Children’s Guardian Fund belongs to all of us, and to a community that continues to show up and support our all-volunteer efforts.”
Beyond the leadership, the event featured a record number of restaurant partners, a feat credited to Restaurant Chair Michelle Waldron. The atmosphere was set by the musical stylings of Blues Pig, who donated their performance, and Gold Coast Eagle, which provided beverages. Vital logistical support was provided by a team of volunteers, most notably the freshman students from Cardinal Mooney High School.
Extraordinary Generosity
While the total number is staggering, one specific act of kindness stood out as
the highlight of the event. Frank and Katherine Martucci, the winners of the event’s raffle, stunned the crowd by donating back nearly $18,000 in winnings. Organizers stated that this act “truly embodies the spirit of this event and our community.”
Sponsors Make It Possible
The Kiwanis Club wishes to thank the incredible lineup of sponsors who made the 2025 Lawn Party by the Bay the most successful in history:
Presenting Diamond Sponsor
The Resort at Longboat Key Club
Platinum Sponsor
Ken Schneier & Cynthia Craig
Gold Sponsor
Robert E. Dods Family Foundation, Inc.
Silver Sponsors
The Jeffrey P. McKee Foundation
Longboat Key Foundation
Observer Media Group
Stifel – LeBaron Wealth Advisory Group
Stifel – Long Wealth Advisory Group
Site Sponsor
Your Flooring Warehouse
Lawn Party Tray Sponsor
Danielle Gladding & Co. Realty
Event Program Sponsor
Goodwill Manasota
Bronze Sponsors
Brista Homes
Building Raving Fans
MIC Insurance
Secur-All Insurance Agency
Reed Medical Group
