BUSINESS OBSERVER

+ Sarasota Open continues to grow
Now in its third year, the Sarasota Open has attracted notable players such as: James Blake, 2011 winner; and Kei Nishikori, 2010 winner. This year, the tournament isn’t just for leading male players. The 2012 tournament will included a Ladies Invitational Tournament.

“With the addition of this invitational tournament, we bring the tennis audience a rare opportunity to see some of the top ranked male and female talent in the game today playing at one event,” tournament director Tony Driscoll says.

This year, additions to the tournament not only include a Ladies Invitational Tournament, but an increased prize purse of $100,000 for the men’s tournament, increased hospitality offerings and increased sponsor participation.

With the popularity and growth, the Sarasota Open has welcomed a new co-director, Dickie Herbst. Herbst is an ATP and WTA veteran and will oversee management responsibilities in tandem with Driscoll.
“I have confidence that working together we will create an event that exceeds all expectations for the fans and players alike,” Driscoll says.

Advance tickets for all events can be purchased at www.sarasotaopen.org.

+ Longboat Key Club and Resort focuses on health
Longboat Key Club and Resort announced a “Passport to Wellness” campaign, which started in January. Club members, resort guests and associates will be offered a host of events, receptions, educational seminars and health-related classes throughout the year.

Events include a “Biggest Winner Challenge” that features motivational challenges such as beachside exercises and stretching, healthy eating cook-offs and outdoor activities.

A guest speaker series will feature medical and health-and-lifestyle experts discussing topics such as non-surgical rejuvenation, breast cancer and skin care, vision and hearing.

Associates will earn incentives for participation in aspects of the wellness program through health screenings, fitness classes, membership at an off-site gym and blood donations, to name a few.

+ Chase Bank on St. Armands Circle now open
J.P. Morgan Chase operates banks in more than 60 countries and opened a new location on St. Armands Circle. It is located at 30 N. Blvd. of the Presidents, in the former Bank of America spot. The bank, which opened Friday, Feb. 10, is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday; and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. Call 388-1315.

+ Longboat Key Club ranks among top tennis resorts
Tennis magazine’s rankings of the 50 top American resorts are in. The destination resorts were divided into regions, and No. 1 on the Gulf Coast was the Longboat Key Club and Resort. The 20-court club was mentioned for its HydroGrid watering system, which keeps the courts in top condition; the tennis concierge; the USTA-certified stadium with seats for 2,500 spectators (where the Sarasota Open is held); and the nearby beach.

The resort ranked ahead of Naples Grande, in Naples; Saddlebrook Resort, in Tampa; Lakewood Club at The Colony at The Grand, in Fairhope, Ala.; and Sandestin Resort, at Miramar Beach.