Longboat Library hears bookish couple speak

Authors and founders of Oceanview Publishing, Bob and Pat Gussin, were the guest speakers at the annual Longboat Library luncheon, held April 8, at the Longboat Key Hilton Beachfront Resort.

The couple retired from corporate life in 2000 with the intention of enjoying life on Longboat Key. Then, Pat Gussin wrote a novel, “Shadow of Death.” Bob Gussin then followed with “Trash Talk,” a humorous account of athletes and environmentalists working together. After that, the couple formed Oceanwiew Publishing.

Currently, they publish about 12 books a year and have 40 writers under contract. Next month, they will begin to move the operations of their business from Ipswich, Mass., to Longboat Key.

Bob Gussin had few words of advice to retirees who would consider a second career.

“If an opportunity comes up, think: ‘What is the worst scenario that can happen?’” he said. “‘If it happens, can I live with it?’”

Pat Gussin has written two other books, and Bob Gussin is working on a second. Together they wrote, “What’s Next For You?” which is an account of how they got where they are today.

The luncheon program also included the installation of new officers. Amy Roth succeeds Pat Geraci as president. Other officers are: Patricia Greene, first vice president; Eileen Hassel, second vice president; Ruth Strauss, treasurer; Donna Godfrey, recording secretary; Maryann Tata, secretary; and board members Marcy McGrath, Hazel Steskal and Carolyn Mangel.

Contact Dora Walters at [email protected].