Longboat Observer 12.08.22

LONGBOAT

Observer

Longboat Key’s weekly newspaper since 1978

Dockside Santa PAGE 8B

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

VOLUME 45, NO. 18

FREE • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

Resorts fill fast Hurricane Ian’s effects on Southwest Florida drive season visitors to look north. PAGE 3A

YOUR TOWN

LAWN, WITH A VIEW

Trip to Ken Thompson Park suits island’s annual fundraising highlight. PAGE 1B

Courtesy photo

Save the sea horse!

Naima White had to think fast on a recent Friday morning when she pulled up a spider crab instead of a shell. The prehistoric scavenger of a crab had a sea horse by the tail.

White yelled, “Who’s brave?”

Then answered her own question by quickly plucking the sea horse out from between the crab’s claws.

The veterinarian from North Carolina was visiting her father for Thanksgiving. He’s lived on Longboat for 30 years. White has walked these beaches looking for shells many times and has come across other hungry crabs.

“If it’s a worm or a clam, I let it go,” she said, “But it was a sea horse.”

Lesley Dwyer

Robyn Marin and Amy Goldman taste samples from local restaurants during the Kiwanis Club’s Lawn Party Dec. 3.

That’s the ticket

Eric Garwood

Let us know what’s shiny and bright Best Christmas decoration this year: An inflatable Santa in the lotus position, wearing a T-shirt that says “Oooommm for the holidays.’’

OK, maybe comedy and Christmas aren’t naturally linked in your book. Still, is your neighborhood looking merry and bright?

If so, we want to know. The Longboat Observer is making its list and checking it twice to find the most vibrant holiday lights across the island.

If your house, or your neighbor’s, is lighting up the neighborhood, email LDwyer@ YourObserver.com by Dec. 11.

It could end up in our Christmas issue. Please include the address and a photo, if possible.

Eric Garwood

Traffic slows from the 35 mph limit on Bay Isles Parkway.

Bay Isles’ deal with town opens door for police traffic enforcement.

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He’s the piano man.

INSIDE

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

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Commission refrains from taking stance on Asplen ouster In a nod toward avoiding partisanship, town leaders steer clear of discussions about School Board and superintendent.

LAUREN TRONSTAD STAFF WRITER

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eeking to remain nonpartisan, the Longboat Key Town Commission on Monday chose not to take sides in the ongoing negotiations between the Sarasota County School Board and Superintendent Brennan Asplen over terms of his potential separation.

Initially, town commissioners toyed with the idea of making a stance known in hopes of ensuring nonpartisanship in the future and vouching for the success of the students the town does send to the district.

In the end, though, they settled on staying out of the fray.

“I don’t think there is much that can actually be done at this point,” Mayor Ken Schneier said. “I think that ship has sailed, but it may not have.”

Whether to take sides in the issues of another board was a key point of discussion Monday.

“It feels like we are dipping into the partisan, nonpartisan area,” Commissioner Mike Haycock said.

“The town has been so careful about keeping this committee nonpartisan.

That is a very partisan issue going on … to take a stance as a commission, I would be against.”

Commissioner Sherry Dominick said showing support in some way could be characterized as supporting the views of the teachers who are gathering in support of Asplen.

“We don’t have people tell us how we hire or fire our town manager,” Vice Mayor Maureen Merrigan said.

“These folks were voted in, good or bad, whether we agree or disagree.”

Instead of taking a direct stance on the issue, she opted to consider asking the board to always consider per-

formance and metrics when making a decision of this nature.

At the most recent count, about 25 students with Longboat Key addresses attend either a traditional Sarasota County public school or a charter school.

In August elections, town voters supported a slate of school board candidates who ultimately lost to newcomers Tim Enos, Robyn Marinelli and incumbent Bridget Ziegler, all of whom supported moving ahead with Asplen’s removal.

Schneier wrote an email to the board with his position as an individual Dec. 2.

“I have been the Mayor of Longboat Key for three years, and though my children are long grown, I am an avid supporter of our schools … At this week’s Conference of the Florida League of Mayors and Florida League of Cities Advocacy Group in Orlando, I spoke to a number of representatives of our Sarasota County local governments who all wished they had the opportunity to try to avoid the likely damage that Mr. Asplen’s discharge, however described, might cause to the quality system we have. Couldn’t the new board try to work with him to enact the changes they feel necessary and which the voters endorsed by your election? It’s too bad that it’s too late.

“When I saw this afternoon that an agreement on Mr. Asplen’s severance had not yet been reached, I felt the need to grasp this straw and just ask if you and he could reroute your negotiations toward an agreement to work together, if only on a limited trial basis, to see if a path forward can be found to accommodate your passion for our students and his. Please try. You would all be heroes.”

Before the Nov. 29 meeting at which school board members voted 4-1 to proceed with negotiations with Asplen to facilitate his departure, board member Karen Rose told the Longboat Observer some of her reasons to initiate the process a week earlier.

“My sole goal was to initiate a pro-

File photo

Brennan Asplen came to Sarasota County Schools in 2020.

cess for how we are going to bring unity back to the district. There has been a strong, consistent voice for change in the district going back to COVID ... and I’ve tried for change on the dais and in one-on-ones, but I don’t see it.”

Tom Edwards was the only board member who voted against such action.

Following the Nov. 29 meeting, a follow up meeting on Friday, Dec. 2 was tentatively set, but that day announced the meeting had been set aside.

A poll of Sarasota County Teachers Association members drew more than 2,000 responses in two days, the union said in an email to members.

Of those responses, 97% “wanted the school board to do everything in their power to retain Superintendent Asplen.’’

“The decision made on Tuesday will completely disrupt our school district and may have ramifications

“It feels like we are dipping into the partisan, nonpartisan area. The town has been so careful about keeping this committee nonpartisan. That is a very partisan issue going on … To take a stance as a commission, I would be against.”

— Commissioner Mike Haycock

that will last for years,” wrote Barry Dubin, the executive director of the union. “What high quality Sarasota-quality, if that term still has any meaning, superintendent would come here to work under these conditions? Will we just get applicants who have no other choices?”

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

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Busy, busy, busy Longboat’s tourist time looks hearty with Southwest Florida vacationers scrambling to find winter accommodations.

Longboat Key beaches were not crowded in early December.

LAUREN TRONSTAD AND ERIC GARWOOD OBSERVER STAFF

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eason is here on Longboat Key. Resorts of all sizes are gearing up for what is easily their busiest time of year.

At the Sandpiper Inn, demand for rooms is higher than normal following Hurricane Ian. Guests who had plans to stay in Fort Myers or Sanibel Island are now scrambling to hold onto vacation plans, making Longboat Key even more attractive than is typical.

Though it’s early, and October’s areawide hotel-occupancy numbers are skewed by displaced Southwest Florida residents and aid workers, airport traffic is setting record after record.

Anecdotally, the 2022-23 version of Longboat Key’s busiest six months seems to be shaping up as a robust one – a contrast to the last few years when COVID-19 and its variations played havoc with what’s normal.

Speaking of out of the ordinary, October hotel occupancy rates can now be seen as a harbinger of things to come.

Visit Sarasota County President Virginia Haley wrote in her October report the source was likely due to “many of our visitors were workers here to aid in recovery from Hurricane Ian, resulting in longer lengths of stays and less spending in restaurants, shopping and entertainment.”

There were 134,300 visitors in paid lodging in October 2022, an increase of 15.2% from the previous year.

Direct visitor spending was $125,720,900, an increase of 3.5% and occupancy rates were up 34% to more than 80%.

Lodging nights sold were 312,300, an increase of 33.2%.

Sandpiper owner Christine Cullison said she has been receiving numerous calls from people searching for an alternative place to stay, and she has had to turn them away due to lack of availability.

“I got phone calls the next day (after Hurricane Ian) from people looking for rooms for January and February,” Cullison said. “I just don’t have the room. I am expecting that will continue. I get at least one call per week.”

WHAT DID YOU MISS?

If you’re just arriving in Longboat for the season or vacationing here again, a few things are new that you might have missed: Town Center Green: Home last winter to a series of farmers markets and art shows, the town’s centerpiece gathering place is coming together. Construction is ongoing, but by mid2023, a stage and pavilion should be sprouting on the land.

Dog park: If you are a big-dog lover, check out the newly artificially turfed dog park at Bayfront Park.

Overhead wires: The town’s working to complete its years-long project to dismantle overhead wires and replace them with underground cables. Should be done in early to mid-2023.

The Sandpiper Inn is booked solid through March.

Typically, her establishment’s guests through the season are the same each year and sometimes stay as long as three months at one time.

To reward their loyalty to the family-run location, they are given first dibs on their rooms for the next year before they check out at the end of their stay.

Preparations for the season are not any different than those completed every couple of months at the inn.

Cullison refreshes bedding, cookware and other frequently used items among guests.

“I’m a big fan of Longboat Key,” said Michael Key, a day visitor checking out the beach from his normal winter home in mainland Sarasota.

Key said he’d love to make one of the island’s resorts his winter home from the wilds of his full-time home in northern New York. “Maybe someday,’’ he said, tipping his head to a nearby resort.

FREQUENT VISITORS RETURN

The irony was about as easy to spot as a perfect patch of sand on an unspoiled beach when Sherry Evans of Rainier, Oregon, sat down to chat with a visitor on the stoop of her Longboat Key vacation rental.

The front door was open to the only-in-Florida-in-December warm breeze off the Gulf of Mexico.

There wasn’t a shoe in sight, except four worn by a couple carrying bags back to a car with out of state plates.

There were, however, tales of kayaking adventures launched from nearby Joan Durante Park. Ice cream at The Centre Shops. Trips to nearby attractions. The love of Longboat Key’s quiet ambiance.

Then every few moments, another jet taking off from Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport roared overhead, wheeling and climbing over the island on its way back north after disgorging another planeload of tourists and winter residents.

Last month alone, the airport had 308,012 passengers travel through, a 12% increase from October 2021, and November numbers are expected soon. So far this year, there have been 3.1 million passengers.

Reaching that number seemed impossible a few years ago before the airport offered 11 airlines and 53 nonstop destinations. The airport recently announced a new flight through Avelo Airlines to Raleigh-Durham International Airport that is expected to begin Feb. 13.

Evans didn’t fly, though. She and her husband took their time and drove coast to (nearly) coast on their way to stay at the independently operated Sandpiper Inn. They’ve been coming for years, she said, often with other members of the family. A few doors down, her sister and brother-in-law Becky and Dave Brekke were in the midst of a perfect Longboat Key vacation.

The trips before Christmas are now gifts they give to themselves.

“Every year we’re like, ‘Oh, please don’t sell this and build a giant thing,” she said. “You know, just keep this sweet little place; it’s like an oasis.”

Photos by Eric Garwood

Recently, one of the families rented kayaks for an extended period, putting in and exploring Longboat’s bayfront. Along the way, they discovered two things that don’t exist in the Northwest – schools of jumping mullet and manatees.

“We went into a little canal, like where there were some other condos and homes,” Evans said. “And there was a big manatee back there and just, you know, swimming right by our boat. And so that was really fun. I really enjoyed that.”

They also checked out Siesta Key. Inspired by their children who had heard of the barrier island, they drove over to see.

“You can sit here in the shade or half sun or go in the water, but you don’t have to bake all day,’’ she said.

“It was really, really hot. So we didn’t necessarily want to go back there again. But they liked it once.”

George and Sherry Evans come to Longboat Key often in the winter. This season, Becky Brekke, Sherry’s sister, and her husband, Dave, joined them from Arizona.

Tennis courts are harder to come by as season extends toward the holidays and beyond.

The Sandpiper Inn is located mid-island, near Joan Durante Park.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

Commissioners find way to redo summer schedule Commissioners unanimously pass a calendar change for June 30 special meeting to cover business that would have been handled July 3.

LAUREN TRONSTAD STAFF WRITER

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n election rendered unnecessary and a Town Commission meeting scheduled amid a holiday week less than 24 hours before the town’s biggest annual celebration added up to plenty of thought and discussion before a solution could be found Monday.

At issue was the scheduled Town Commission meeting on July 3, 2023, a meeting that would precede commissioners’ two-and-a-half-month summer break from public meetings and serve as a wrap up of business.

It all began more than a month ago when Commissioner BJ Bishop recommended a second look at what would have been a routine approval of the elected body’s 2023 meeting calendar.

Scheduled as it was a day before Independence Day, when the town celebrates its annual Freedom Fest parade, options were open on rescheduling the meeting or even canceling it.

Initially, town commissioners proposed a ballot question to piggyback on March elections for three

commission seats. The idea was to ask voters to amend the charter, the town’s overarching governing document, to allow canceling the July meeting all together, making the final regularly scheduled meeting in mid-June.

They also considered a special meeting in late June to accomplish all their before-summer business and then simply skipping the July 3 gathering procedurally.

But following Jeff Lenobel’s decision to pull out of the would-havebeen contested District 1 race, making Gary Coffin commissioner-elect, options for the commission quickly shifted.

They could have still decided to put the charter amendment forward to voters, but the knowledge that it would cost the town between $10,000 and $20,000 to put on such an election led commissioners to refrain from that option.

On Monday, they also unanimously passed a motion that scheduled a special meeting June 30, 2023, which will take the place of the business scheduled for the July 3 meeting.

Normally, town leaders set an initial not-to-exceed millage rate in that early July meeting, based on final property valuations from Sarasota and Manatee counties. Town officials said those valuations typically arrive early enough for that work to be done on the last day of June.

Commissioner Debra Williams brought up the question of why elections of the seats are held in March when ballots are already necessary in November.

“My understanding of the history was because that was when your population increases to have the most full-time residents within the jurisdiction,” town attorney Maggie Mooney said. “It was treated as an important part of the charter to have a March election.”

“I would argue that we are in a different time period now,” Williams said in favor of her idea. “A lot of people vote by absentee ballot … it’s different than it was 20 years ago.”

In favor of keeping the current election cycle, Commissioner BJ Bishop cited the importance of keeping municipal elections nonpartisan, an issue she fears would come to fruition if their elections were moved to November.

File photo

“When (municipal elections) are taken out of the spring municipal election cycle and thrown into November, nonpartisanship will go out the window, and a clear example of the nightmare that creates is look at the Sarasota County School Board,” she said.

This discussion was not the first time that the commission had a discussion about a charter change, but ultimately opted to not move forward with changes or a ballot question.

Commissioners previously discussed at their Oct. 17 meeting the possibility of changing the town charter to allow for compensation for their time in hopes of enticing an increase in candidates and in turn contested elections.

However, the fear that the wrong people would step up looking for an extra sum of money kept the board from moving forward with seeking

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Commissioners often participate in the Independence Day Freedom Fest parade, as BJ Bishop and Ken Schneier did in 2021.

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any changes.

“The ones who served for a paycheck were always the ones that never read the packet and never came prepared for the meeting,” Bishop said.

As commissioners Maureen Merrigan and Sherry Dominick move out of their seats in March, Deborah Murphy and Gary Coffin will take those seats as commissioners-elect.

No one opted to file against current mayor Ken Schneier, allowing him to keep his current seat.

The last time an election was contested was in 2018. Since that March over four years ago, when Ed Zunz, Ken Schneier and Irwin Pastor won contested Town Commission races, no one else has had to exert the effort or money needed to run a campaign.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

Eric Garwood

Traffic circulates near the Bay Isles north entrance.

Traffic and pickleball plans move forward in Bay Isles Town OKs plan to allow police to write tickets on private roads; commissioners also grant initial approval for pickleball proposal.

LAUREN TRONSTAD STAFF WRITER

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aw enforcement now has the jurisdiction to make traffic stops, tow vehicles and work to improve pedestrian safety in the private neighborhoods behind the Bay Isles gates.

An agreement between the largest residential development on the island and the town was approved by town commissioners without discussion at their Dec. 5 regular meeting.

In April 2022, the town was approached by Bay Isles in hopes of exploring an agreement with the Bay Isles Homeowners Association for non-criminal traffic enforcement on their private roads.

The town does not provide that service to the neighborhood because it’s a private gated community. To do so, under Florida statute, a formal agreement must be approved by both the HOA board and the town.

Over the past six months, town staff has met with representatives of the Bay Isles Housing Opportunity

Commission Board to come to an agreement that remains consistent with state requirements.

On Nov. 14, the board approved the agreement before it came to the commissioners for review and approval Monday.

Some residents say speeding on Harbourside Drive has been an issue for years where part of the road is four lanes and the other part is a winding two-lane stretch. In 2011, a safety committee was formed by the association to look at the issue. In 2019, speed humps were installed by the homeowners group.

The agreement recognizes the town’s current service level, which includes periodic law enforcement patrols through the gated community. Under the agreement, the town’s police officers are able to take traffic enforcement action on the private roads while patrolling the area.

Initially, the term for the agreement is five years. If necessary, it can be terminated without cause with 90-day notice from either the town or the neighborhood. At the end of the five-year period, unless otherwise noted, the agreement will be automatically renewed.

An additional provision of the agreement allows the HOA, for a fee, to work with police to schedule specific traffic enforcement operations from time to time.

PICKLEBALL FIRST READING

Commissioners took their first step in the discussion surrounding four proposed pickleball courts at the Longboat Key Club. The issue had been unanimously approved and moved forward for commission discussion by the town’s Planning and Zoning Board Nov. 15.

On Monday, commissioners unanimously approved the measure following the first of two public hearings.

Second reading and an additional opportunity for residents to speak on the matter will occur at the commission’s Jan. 9, 2023 regular meeting.

The pickleball courts, proposed for 3000 Harbourside Drive, are to be built south of the original proposed site, replacing existing parking, which moves them farther from Winding Oaks. Neighbors from that neighborhood banded together last spring to object to the plans, citing

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

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“I think this is a good example of how a government should work.”

— Penny Gold

noise and nighttime lighting concerns.

The original site was planned adjacent to the Longboat Key Club Tennis Garden’s courts in an area where trees now stand between the golf course and the tennis facility.

The courts were proposed to be no closer than 328 feet from the nearest Winding Oaks home, which is farther than existing courts are from residential property alongside the Moorings.

To address concerns with noise associated with pickleball, the club opted to conduct a sound study. The study conducted by Keane Acoustics showed that even without sounddeadening materials planned for the courts, noise from the courts would not exceed decibel levels already expected with surrounding ambient noise, such as traffic.

Additional elements of the plan include: n Fifty-one trees would be preserved, 40 trees would be relocated and 66 trees would be removed. n A landscaped buffer is planned west of the courts for sound and visual screening. n Sixteen lights, four per court, will be placed. They will be 20 feet tall, directed downward onto the court and turned off no later than 9 p.m. nightly in compliance with town code. n The club’s plans include 116 parking slots, though the town requires 94. Planning and Zoning Board members raised concerns along with the public about preservation of trees on the property, which led to a condition being added by town staff to ensure that more trees would be replaced or preserved.

Commissioners commended the effort made by the club to address the concerns of neighbors.

“I think this is a good example of how a government should work,” Commissioner Penny Gold said.

“This is a great example of how a community should address these issues,” Mayor Ken Schneier said in agreement with Gold.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

Penthouse, home set Longboat price records An En Provence property and a home in Bay Isles sold within two weeks of each other.

ERIC GARWOOD MANAGING EDITOR

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he recent sale of a home in Bay Isles and a penthouse in En Provence both represented Longboat Key price records.

The building 3 penthouse in En Provence, at 2161 Gulf of Mexico Drive, sold for $8.2 million, the highest ever for a gulf-front condominium on Longboat Key. The home in Bay Isles, at 550 Harbor Point Road, sold for $10 million, the highest ever for a bayfront home on Longboat.

Jennifer Schwell-Chaplin of Michael Saunders & Co. represented the sellers of the condominium, and Bruce Myer of Coldwell Banker Realty represented the sellers of the bayfront home.

Janet and Steve Walter of Michael Saunders & Co. represented the outof-town buyers of each of the properties. The sales closed within two weeks of each other.

Schwell-Chaplin said she sold the 6,000-square-foot condominium pre-construction to the original owners in 2001 for $4.4 million. Listed for the first time, the penthouse was on the market for about fourand-a-half months when the Walter Group connected the buyers, who are from Wisconsin, with the property.

Overlooking the gulf and occupying the top floor, the penthouse features nearly 2,000 square feet of covered and open terrace space.

“They loved it the way it was and were very pleased they found exactly what they wanted,” Janet Walter said, of the four-bedroom, four bath property.

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“The previous owners were dear friends, and the penthouse passed to their three daughters, who were thrilled to know it would be cherished by the new owners as much as it was by their parents,” SchwellChaplin said.

The penthouse of building 3 at En Provence occupies the entire top floor.

YEAR-OVER-YEAR CHANGES

Average and median prices in Manatee and Sarasota counties were higher in October than in the same month in 2021, according to the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee.

SARASOTA COUNTY Median home price: $537,500 (31.1%) Closed home sales: 520 (-34%) Peak median home price: $525,000 (July) Median condominium price: $386,580 (+16.1%) Closed condominium sales: 250 (-21.6%) Peak median condo price: $416,250 (June) MANATEE COUNTY Median home price: $549,444 (29.3%) Closed home sales: 572 (-14.9%) Peak median home price: $550,000 (MayJune) Median condominium price: $368,700 (+32.6%) Closed condominium sales: 200 (-22.5%) Peak median condo price: $369,900 (May)

TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY OF LONGBOAT KEY NOTICE OF TOWN PUBLIC MEETING & HEARINGS NOTICEORDINANCE OF PUBLIC MEETING & HEARINGS 2022-19 ORDINANCE 2022-19 AND AND ORDINANCE ORDINANCE2022-22 2022-22 DECEMBER 13,2022 2022 – 9:15 DECEMBER 13, 9:15AM AM Please takethat notice that a public meeting hearingsof of the the Town Key’s Planning and Please take notice a public meeting andand hearings TownofofLongboat Longboat Key’s Planning and Zoning Board will be held to consider proposed modifications to Title 15, Land Development Code, Zoning Board will be held to consider proposed modifications to Title 15, Land Development Code, Chapter 160, Comprehensive Plan, of the Code of Ordinances of the Town of Longboat Key, as more Chapter 160, Comprehensive Plan, of 2022-19 the Code Ordinances of the Town of Longboat Key, as more particularly set forth in Ordinance andofOrdinance 2022-22: particularly set forth in Ordinance 2022-19 and Ordinance 2022-22:

ORDINANCE 2022-19 AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE 2022 ORDINANCE 2022-19 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN OF THE OF LONGBOAT KEY, PURSUANT TO SECTION AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF TOWN LONGBOAT KEY, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE 2022 163.3184, FLORIDA AMENDING, DELETING, KEY, REPLACING, AND TO ADDING COMPREHENSIVE PLAN OFSTATUTES THE TOWN OF LONGBOAT PURSUANT SECTION OBJECTIVES, POLICIES, AND STRATEGIES PROVIDED FOR WITHIN THE INFRASTRUCTURE 163.3184, ELEMENT; FLORIDA STATUTES AMENDING, DELETING, REPLACING, AND ADDING PROVIDING FOR COMPLIANCE WITH THE COMMUNITY PLANNING ACT; PROVIDING OBJECTIVES, POLICIES, AND STRATEGIES PROVIDED FOR WITHINFOR THE INFRASTRUCTURE FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING REPEAL OF ALL ELEMENT; PROVIDING COMPLIANCE THE COMMUNITY ACT; PROVIDING ORDINANCES INFOR CONFLICT HEREWITH;WITH PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVEPLANNING DATE.

FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ALL 2022-22 ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH;ORDINANCE PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE 2022 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN OF THE TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY, PURSUANT TO SECTION ORDINANCE 2022-22 163.3184, FLORIDA STATUTES AMENDING, DELETING, REPLACING, AND ADDING AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE 2022 OBJECTIVES, POLICIES, AND STRATEGIES PROVIDED FOR WITHIN THE MOBILITY ELEMENT; COMPREHENSIVE PLAN OF THE TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY, PURSUANT TO SECTION PROVIDING FOR COMPLIANCE WITH THE COMMUNITY PLANNING ACT; PROVIDING FOR 163.3184, SEVERABILITY; FLORIDA STATUTES AMENDING, DELETING, REPLACING, ADDING PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL AND OF ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; PROVIDING ANFOR EFFECTIVE OBJECTIVES, POLICIES, AND STRATEGIES PROVIDED WITHINDATE. THE MOBILITY ELEMENT;

PROVIDING FOR COMPLIANCE WITH THE COMMUNITY PLANNING ACT; PROVIDING FOR The public hearings before the Planning and Zoning Board on proposed Ordinance 2022-19 and SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ALL Ordinance 2022-22 will be held on December 13, 2022, at 9:15 a.m., or as soon thereafter as may be ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; PROVIDING heard, in the Town Commission Chambers at Town Hall, AN 501 EFFECTIVE Bay Isles Road,DATE. Longboat Key, Florida.

The publicAllhearings Zoning proposed Ordinance 2022-19 and interested before persons the may Planning appear andand be heard with Board respect on to proposed Ordinance 2022-19 and Copies of Ordinance13, 2022-19 Ordinance and related material OrdinanceOrdinance 2022-22 2022-22. will be held on December 2022,and at 9:15 a.m.,2022-22 or as soon thereafter as may be associated with the amendments may be the Planning, & Building Department, heard, in the Town Commission Chambers atviewed TownatHall, 501 BayZoning Isles Road, Longboat Key,501 Florida.

Bay Isles Road, between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. weekdays prior to the hearing. Questions may be

directed to the Planning, Zoning & Building Department at 316-1966. The proposed amendments will All interested persons may appear and be heard with respect to proposed Ordinance 2022-19 and affect property within the corporate boundaries of the Town of Longboat Key as shown on the map Ordinanceappearing 2022-22.

Copies ofthis Ordinance 2022-19 and Ordinance 2022-22 and related material at the bottom of advertisement. associated with the amendments may be viewed at the Planning, Zoning & Building Department, 501 No verbatim record8:30 by a certified court reporter made of these proceedings.

Accordingly, any personmay be Bay Isles Road, between a.m. and 5:00 p.m.is weekdays prior to the hearing.

Questions seek to appeal any&decision involving the matters hereinThe will be responsible for making directed towho themay Planning, Zoning Building Department at noticed 316-1966. proposed amendments will a verbatim record the testimony and evidence these proceedings upon which appeal ison to be affect property within the ofcorporate boundaries of at the Town of Longboat Key any as shown the map based (see Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes). In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act appearing and at the bottom of this advertisement.

Section 286.26, Florida Statutes, persons needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact the Town Clerk’s office at 941-316-1999 seventy-two (72) hours in advance

No verbatim record by a certified court reporter is made proceedings. Accordingly, any person of this proceeding.

If you are hearing impaired, pleaseof callthese 941-316-8719. who may seek to appeal any decision involving the matters noticed herein will be responsible for making a verbatim record of the testimony and evidence at these proceedings upon which any appeal is to be based (see Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes). In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, Florida Statutes, persons needing a special accommodation to participate in this David Green, Chair Planning proceeding should contact Town Clerk’s office at 941-316-1999 seventy-two (72) hours in advance and Zoning Board the Published: of this proceeding.

If you are hearing impaired, please call 941-316-8719.

12/08/2022

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

OPINION / OUR VIEW

LONGBOAT

“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 President and Publisher / Emily Walsh, EWalsh@YourObserver.com Executive Editor and COO / Kat Hughes, KHughes@YourObserver.com

It’s time for Florida to stop relying on ‘taxation by citation’ Relying on fees and fines as a source of recurring revenue isn’t sustainable and should be reconsidered.

ADRIAN MOORE AND VITTORIO NASTASI

A

cross the country, state and local governments use court fines and fees as a source of revenue to fund services.

This “taxation by citation” is not only a threat to individual liberty, but it can also undermine public safety and result in fiscal instability.

Fines and fees are commonplace throughout the justice system.

In many cases, fines are desirable because they are an “intermediate” form of punishment. In other words, slapping someone with a fine is less severe than incarceration but is tough punishment for many low-level offenses.

A person may be charged a fine for any criminal or civil infraction.

In addition to any fines, they might also be charged fees meant to cover court costs.

The state court system in Florida is funded through general revenues, but a large share of funding for the state’s clerks of courts is provided by filing fees, service charges and court costs that are collected from individuals when they interact with the court system.

Because fines and fees are not generally scaled based on income, they tend to disproportionately harm low-income people who are unable to pay. Failure to pay outstanding fines and fees can result in driver’s license suspensions and even incarceration. A recent report by the Fines and Fees Justice Institute found that nearly 2 million Floridians have their drivers licenses suspended because of unpaid fines and fees. Considering that approximately 80% of Floridians drive themselves to work and many jobs require a driver’s license, suspending driver’s licenses reduces the likelihood those individuals will be able to pay their fines and fees. It is counterproductive to make it even more difficult for individuals to pay off their debts and create additional administrative costs for governments.

The fact that many people are financially unable to pay may provide some explanation for why governments are notoriously bad at collecting outstanding court debts.

A report from the Brennan Center for Justice found that 36% of the fines and fees assessed in Florida between 2012 and 2018 were actually collected, resulting in over $1.13 billion in cumulative unpaid fines and fees.

Even setting aside problems with collection, fines and fees are not a particularly stable source of revenue.

In Florida, statewide fines and fees revenue have declined significantly over recent years—a fiscal issue that has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Courthouses were closed during the early months of the pandemic, leading to a backlog of cases and disrupted revenue flows. Over that same period, lockdowns and stay-athome orders kept drivers off the road, reducing the number of traffic violations—a major source of fines and fees revenue in the state.

In the fiscal year ending in September 2020, clerks of courts collected $377.4 million in fines and fees compared to $432 million in the year prior. Revenues in both years represent a dramatic decline from the $539 million collected in 2009.

Declining revenues are already causing trouble for organizations and programs that depend on fines and fees revenue. Epilepsy Florida, for example, pulls in $5 from every seat belt infraction in the state.

In 2020, that translated to just $240,000 compared to $1.1 million in 2014 according to reporting by FL Keys News.

Fortunately, fines and fees revenue make up a very small portion of Florida’s budget and there are many options for reform.

Generally speaking, no program or agency should be specifically funded by fines and fees revenue.

Instead, court revenue should be sent into the general fund to avoid poor incentive structures within the justice system. Fees, which only exist to raise revenue, should arguably be eliminated. Meanwhile fines, which serve as punishment, could be scaled to account for individuals’ ability to pay. Florida could also eliminate fines and fees in juvenile cases and abandon the counterproductive practice of suspending drivers’ licenses for failure to pay.

These reforms would realign incentives for law enforcement and help reduce the desperate impact of fines and fees on low-income communities. Florida lawmakers would be wise to address the fiscal challenges presented by declining fines and fees revenue and put an end to “taxation by citation” in the Sunshine State.

By Vittorio Nastasi, Director of Criminal Justice at Reason Foundation, and Dr. Adrian Moore, Vice President at Reason Foundation.

Managing Editor / Eric Garwood, EGarwood@YourObserver.com Staff Writers / Lesley Dwyer, LDwyer@YourObsever.com; Lauren Tronstad, LTronstad@YourObsever.com Digital & Engagement Editor / Kaelyn Adix, KAdix@YourObserver.com Copy Editor / Gina Reynolds Haskins, GRHaskins@YourObserver.com Senior Editorial Designer / Melissa Leduc, MLeduc@YourObserver.com Editorial Designer / José Valle, JValle@YourObserver.com A+E Editor / Spencer Fordin, SFordin@YourObserver.com Black Tie Editor / Harry Sayer, HSayer@YourObserver.com Director of Advertising / Jill Raleigh, JRaleigh@YourObserver.com Sales Manager / Penny Nowicki, PNowicki@YourObserver.com Regional Digital Director / Kathleen O’Hara, KOHara@YourObserver.com Senior Advertising Executive / Laura Ritter, LRitter@YourObserver.com Advertising Executives / Richeal Bair, RBair@YourObserver.com; Beth Jacobson, BJacobson@YourObserver.com; Jennifer Kane, JKane@YourObserver.com; Honesty Mantkowski, HMantkowski@YourObserver. com; Toni Perren, TPerren@YourObserver. com; Lyndsey Walsh, LyndseyWalsh@ YourObserver.com; Brenda White, BWhite@YourObserver.com Classified Advertising Sales Executive / Lexi Huelsman, LHuelsman@ YourObserver.com Sales Operations Manager / Susan Leedom, SLeedom@YourObserver.com Sales Coordinator/Account Manager / Lori Downey, LDowney @YourObserver.com Digital Fulfillment Specialist / Emma Burke, EBurke@YourObserver.com Tributes Coordinator / Kristen Boothroyd, Tributes@YourObserver.com Director of Marketing / Robin Lankton, RLankton@YourObserver.com Marketing Specialist / Melanie Melone, MMelone@YourObserver.com Director of Creative Services / Caleb Stanton, CStanton@YourObserver.com Creative Services Administrator / Marjorie Holloway, MHolloway@ YourObserver.com Advertising Graphic Designers / Luis Trujillo, Taylor Poe, Louise Martin, Shawna Polana Digital Developer / Jason Camillo, JCamillo@YourObserver.com Director of Information Technology / Adam Quinlin, AQuinlin@YourObserver.com Chief Financial Officer / Laura Strickland, LStrickland@YourObserver.com Controller / Rafael Labrin, RLabrin@ YourObserver.com Office and Accounting Coordinator / Donna Condon, DCondon@ YourObserver.com

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

SATURDAY, NOV. 26

Volunteers make events happen

FLYING AWAY 1:38 p.m., 3000 block of Harborside Drive Animal complaint: Police responded to the seventh hole at the Longboat Key Club’s red course following a call from a golfer that a goose seemed to be injured and could be found under a tree. Police personnel did find a goose under a tree, with fishing line wrapped around a foot, which affected the animal’s ability to walk. An animal services officer attempted to catch the goose, but it flew away.

BE HEARD

Surely you have an opinion on a town issue. Let us hear it through a letter to the editor. Email them to Managing Editor Eric Garwood at EGarwood@ YourObserver.com.

In the past several weeks, we have seen a number of community organizations bring us together.

First, the Longboat Key Rotary Club held a Nov. 11 tribute to our veterans.

The following week, the faith leaders from Longboat Key as well as St. Armands held the Annual Thanksgiving Prayer Service.

The Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce brought us together with the Tree Lighting at the Town Green.

This past week, the Friends of Tennis held a successful Senior Men’s Tennis Tournament at the LBK Tennis Center which brings revenue to hotels and restaurants across the Key. Finally, the LBK Kiwanis Club hosted its annual Lawn Party and dozens of restaurants showed off their fabulous dishes and raised funds for children at risk.

None of these events would be possible without the hundreds of volunteers from each of these organizations that truly show off our community as a wonderful, unique place to live.

Thanks to all of you!

BJ BISHOP COMMISSIONER, LONGBOAT KEY

No reason to dismiss Asplen As a lifelong Democrat, it is not often I agree with Matt Walsh’s opinions in the Observer. But I am in accord with (his opinion) in the Dec. 1 edition concerning the school board’s misguided attempt to remove of Superintendent Brennan Asplen without cause.

I never heard or read any cogent or precise reason for Superintendent Asplen’s removal.

I see reported “controversy” and “communication problems and tumult” as reasons advanced by the board for his removal. In my opinion, those are probably curable and are too indefinite and non-

substantive to justify 1) an extensive severance package to Asplen, 2) a lengthy and likely expensive search for his replacement who, given the tight labor market, history of this incident and inflationary climate, will likely command greater compensation than is paid to the present superintendent. Moreover, and just as important, 3) the strategic plan Asplen and others developed for the system over, I believe, more than a year, surely will not be implemented as it would were he still employed here. I did not hear any criticism of that work product.

While I have no personal knowledge of the operations of the school system (I am much too old to have children presently attending it), I credit the large number of parents, faculty, staff and dissenting school board member Tom Edwards who discredited any argument relative to Asplen’s responsibility for ultimately enacting a school mask mandate policy a year ago. I also understand that the comparative fourth grade reading scores in public schools of our country from 2019 and 2022 are unsatisfactory in many jurisdictions and that experts put the blame for that primarily on necessary remote learning during the pandemic.

That reason rings accurate to me.

Lastly, I concur with Mr. Walsh (who, I suspect, has far more corporate expertise than I) that the board’s paramount obligation is to collaborate with the superintendent if they perceive there are problems in their inter-personal relations toward solving them. In that regard, I opine that at least four of them have failed us —and themselves.

SUNDAY, NOV. 27

OSPREY

MAKING WAVES 12:55 p.m., near Jewfish Key Boating citation: A boater was cited for his failure to carry the required safety equipment during a police encounter prompted by the boater’s creation of a wake in a slowspeed, minimumwake zone. Following up on the stop, the marine patrol officer explained the reason for his attention on the water and asked to see the legal essentials of boating. The operator could not produce a fire extinguisher, a throwable flotation device or the vessel’s registration paperwork. The boater was given two citations.

but told the resident he would relay the problem to the town’s marine patrol officer for further work.

TUESDAY, NOV. 29

THURSDAY, DEC. 1

GENERATING COMPLAINTS 5:46 p.m., 6900 block of Bayside Drive Noise complaints from the water: A resident called police to alert them to chronic noise from an anchored boat’s generator. The resident pointed out the boat to the investigating officer, explaining the noise it generated had been an ongoing issue for about a year. The officer was unable to contact the vessel’s owner

PAUL SARNO

FRIDAY, NOV. 25

TIME’S UP 6:45 a.m., Linley Street Boating citation: The town’s marine patrol officer, having for weeks kept an eye on a sailboat that was anchored, aground, tipping to the right and on the road to become a derelict vessel, decided enough was enough and cited its out of town owner via certified mail. The officer reported on his most recent visit, the boat did not display the proper lighting for pre-sunrise anchoring and the vessel’s registration numbers were not visible.

WHAT’S ‘NAMASTE’ IN GERMAN? 2:30 a.m., 3400 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Suspicious vehicle: A man, found sleeping in his German sports car at a beach access point, told the officer who stopped to investigate that he was slumbering to ensure a prompt start to his sunrise-meditation routine. The man did not seem under the influence of drugs or alcohol but was nevertheless told he could not park there after (or before) hours.

With no criminal wants or warrants found, the man left the beach area.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

COPS CORNER

LETTERS

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HEY, RINGO! KEEP IT DOWN 6:46 p.m., 5100 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Noise complaint from land: On his way to a report of a noise disturbance, an officer spoke to the person calling in the report, who said there was a large party in progress nearby featuring a live band. By the time the officer arrived, the band had stopped playing. Still, the officer learned from a person at the party that she was celebrating from out of town with friends and family a milestone birthday and she didn’t know the town’s rules on noise.

FRIDAY, DEC. 2

NO PROBLEM 7:17 a.m., 600 block of Cedar Street Noise complaint from land: A resident’s pre-emptive call about potential work noise earlier than allowed hours was investigated and determined to be unfounded.

The officer encountered a van with a construction crew inside, but no work had yet taken place.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

New tree brightly lights up St. Armands

S

arasota city leaders and fans of all things bright and sparkly rocked around the Christmas tree last week at Sarasota’s ceremonial tree lighting on St. Armands Circle.

Hundreds gathered along to watch the super-sized tree light up as the kick off to the holiday season in Sarasota.

The evening radiated with holiday spirit as families gathered together for Mr. and Mrs. Claus to make their arrival in front of the tree in a vintage Mercedes.

Sarasota Mayor Kyle Battie and Vice

Mayor Liz Alpert gave their holiday greetings to the crowd. The Rev. Kenneth Blyth of Church on the Circle gave a brief prayer before the big countdown.

Battie and Santa stepped on the podium and said, “Starting at 10.” The crowd counted down with the mayor and Santa as they pressed the button to bedazzle the 60-foot tree.

Future of Dance immediately followed the tree lighting as they performed various choreographed holiday routines.

— DARIELA DELGADO Mrs. and Mr. Claus make their stylish arrival in a vintage Mercedes.

Eden Williams, Rian Dunn, Jane Goins and Lincoln Dunn are excited for the St. Armands tree lighting.

Photos by Dariela Delgado

Mark Checcone and Kate Haris wait eagerly for the tree lighting and their daughter’s performance in Future of Dance.

Marjorie Reda and Migda Cubero wait for the lighting of the 60-foot tree.

Mr. Claus and Sarasota Mayor Kyle Battie begin the countdown to light the tree.

Christina Denuijl, Brenda Watty and Devron Minion came out to support Sarasota Mayor Battie.

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

City turns away St. Armands zoning change The Sarasota City Commission declined a proposal by the St. Armands Business Improvement District.

neighborhood association president and candidate for City Commission this year, objected to the BID bringing the matter to the city.

“It has nothing to do with I got mine and nobody else should get theirs,” Shoffstall said. “We don’t need hotels. There is a hotel approved already. I really have a serious issue with the people who are pushing this forward. We vetted this for over a year-and-a-half and it was resoundingly voted down, and here we are back at picking at the scab.”

ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER

F

ew topics raise more interest at Sarasota City Hall like a discussion about changes in zoning on St. Armands Circle.

At its Nov. 21 meeting, the Sarasota City Commission heard a request by the St. Armands Business Improvement District to direct staff to study possible changes to the Commercial Tourist Zoning District with the intent to “promote mixed-use development in the area, improve upon the existing functionality and aesthetics of the circle, and lay out framework for future development.”

Under consideration was a request to begin a new process that would have required additional community workshops and public hearings. Still, more than a dozen people spoke out against the BID’s request primarily because changes sought include raising the maximum building height from 35 feet to 45 feet above the FEMA design flood elevation, a review of additional density and the addition of hotel as a conditional use.

Opponents saw that as an opportunity for commercial property owners on the circle to go vertical with their buildings, add short-term rental housing above retail.

Traffic in and around the circle was the main objection.

St. Armands BID Chairman Tom Leonard told commissioners the primary objective is to allow owners of the century-old buildings to bring them up to contemporary standards, if they were so inclined.

“I’ve reached out to every property owner on the circle and the majority of those operators feel that St. Armands needs more flexibility to allow it to maximize its potential,”

A BIG ASK

Residents of St. Armands and Lido Key are concerned that adding density in St. Armands Circle will exacerbate traffic and parking issues at St. Armands Circle. The St. Armands BID’s request for a zoning text amendment study for commercial properties was rejected by the Sarasota City Commission.

said Leonard, who owns Shore restaurant there. Many buildings, he said, have eight-foot ceilings and nonconforming parking, which limit their owners’ ability to renovate.

“Our hands are tied out there,” he said. “We’re not asking you to vote on this to approve it. We’re just asking you to vote on it so we can go through the public scrutiny process.”

ALREADY VETTED

This isn’t the first time the BID has attempted to affect zoning changes on the circle. In 2008, it commissioned a study that resulted in an

expressed need for a hotel and grocery store on the key.

“Not 10 grocery stores, not 10 hotels, one of each,” said Chris Golia, president of the St. Armands Residents Association. “But the matter before you today would allow every single commercial building on St. Armands to have hotel rooms if the owners wanted to do that, so we’re very concerned about that.”

Golia cited community workshops in August 2021 and January 2022, during which an overwhelming majority of participants objected to the proposals being brought by the

BID. Prior to the City Commission meeting, the St. Armands Residents Association reported a recent survey with nearly half of the residents responding resulted in 90% opposing a commercial building height increase and 87% objecting to a zoning text change that would allow boutique hotel usage and the potential for Airbnbs.

“To anybody who says all you’re doing is opening it up to public scrutiny, it’s already been done,” Golia said.

Carl Shoffstall, a Lido Key resident,

“We’re not trying to build towers out there,” Leonard said. “What we’re trying to do is bring St. Armands up to a developmental standard that makes it current with other cities like Naples, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Tampa and St. Petersburg.”

Leonard and Julie Ryan, the BID’s city-appointed business manager, told commissioners that the BID itself is up for renewal in 2023, and progress toward a zoning change may help ensure property owners there approve. As a special tax district, the city returns the additional ad valorem revenue for BID use to enhance business on the circle.

Erik Arroyo, supported by his fellow commissioners, told Leonard that on the heels of the approved comprehensive plan amendments and the myriad zoning amendments to enhance affordable housing efforts that will follow, staff is already overburdened to take on a zoning study.

City Manager Marlon Brown asked Planning Director Steve Cover to articulate the staff’s workload, and when it might be able to fit the BID’s request on its schedule.

“We do have a very heavy year ahead of us with the zoning text amendments related to downtown, which we’re going to be jumping on early next year,” Cover said.

Could it be done in 2023, Brown asked?

“To really fit comfortably, make it 2024,” Cover said.

Rather than tackling a year-plus-

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

13A

TRIBUTES Daniel Louis Hessel

Myron “Mike” Phillips 1928-2022

Photos by Andrew Warfield

long process to review a wholesale text amendment change, Arroyo suggested property owners should bring proposals for specific projects individually rather than wholesale under the cover of the BID. Commissioner Jen Ahearn-Koch agreed.

“When I read this, it’s to authorize city staff to prepare a zoning text amendment, which is a big ask of staff, and then it very specifically says review additional density in the comp plan,” Ahearn-Koch said.

“I see this as a wide-open door. It’s not targeted. It’s not specific. We’ve not had a plethora of people coming down asking for any of this. To Commissioner Arroyo’s point, we have a lot going on, and to put this out there without it being targeted, I think we’re asking for problems.”

City Attorney Robert Fournier settled the matter among commissioners’ minds with a timely legal interpretation of the BID’s request.

Specifically, it isn’t specific enough.

“If the BID has amendments that they want to request, they ought to be able to articulate them or to specify what they are. I don’t think they’ve done that,” Fournier said.

“The BID says the changes are necessary, and the residents say they aren’t. I think it’s unwise to authorize a zoning text amendment unless you know exactly what the proposed amendment is, and I think this is a little too open ended for that.”

St. Armands BID Chairman Tom Leonard told Sarasota city commissioners zoning text changes at St. Armands Circle are necessary for commercial property owners to upgrade their buildings to contemporary standards.

Daniel Louis Hessel (Dan) age 84 of Longboat Key, FL, and former resident of Roseville and Ham Lake, MN, passed away November 28, 2022 after a nine year battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

Dan attended high school in Cameron, WI where he was an outstanding three sport athletic and still holds a WI record in basketball for highest single game scoring of 54 points. He attended the Minneapolis Business College and The University of Minnesota where he studied Business and accounting.

He worked as a CPA in St Paul, MN and retired as a partner from McGladrey and Pullen in 1993. After retiring he worked on his own account and tax seasons with his friend James M. Honsvall LTD a Stillwater, MN CPA Firm for many years.

Dan Loved fishing and hunting and spending win-

ters on Longboat Key, FL. He and his wife June became full-time Florida residents in 2018.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents Louis and Ethlyn Hessel.

Dan is survived by his wife June, of 49 years; his children, Cheryl Weldon (Dave) of New Auburn, WI. David Hessel (Pam) of Lake of the Ozarks, MO, and Stepson Robert Segedi (Tara) of Cottage Grove, MN; Grand Children, Steve Barker (Amy), Jenny Barker, Mitch Hessel, Jamie Hessel, Natalie Segedi and Sydney Segedi. Great Grand Children, Lauren and Dylan Barker; and siblings, Joe Hessel (Betty), Steve Hessel (Thelma) and Judy Olin (Tom).

Services will be held on December 30th at the Longboat Island Chapel on Longboat Key, FL. Memorials appreciated to the Neuro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson’s and the Longboat Island Chapel.

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Myron “Mike” Phillips, 94, of Crescent, GA passed away after a short illness on November 23, 2022. He was born in Vidalia, GA of Curtis M. and Ora Daniels Phillips on June 10, 1928 and moved with his family to Jesup as a child.

He served in the Army as an MP at Camp Stewart, GA during the Korean War. He co-owned and operated Wayne Milling Company, until moving to Crescent in 1967 when he began shrimping. After years in the shrimping industry, Myron built Phillips Seafood, then Pelican Point Restaurant and operated it for 30 years.

After retirement, his life revolved around sharing stories with family and friends,

and University of Georgia Football.

Myron is survived by his three children and a son-in-law, Charlie Phillips of Crescent, Gail Phillips of Pine Harbor, and Susan Phillips and husband Steve Branham of Longboat Key, FL. He taught his children many lessons in life, most notably – a love for Coastal Georgia and her waterways.

He was pre-deceased by 2 brothers, Curtis and Harley and a sister, Laverne.

His wishes were to be cremated with a private memorial service. A celebration of life will be announced as details are confirmed.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

Longboat Key tennis pioneer Nick Bollettieri dies at 91 One of the sport’s most influential teachers, Bollettieri launched the tennis school at the iconic Colony Beach & Tennis Resort.

AMANDA POSTMA STAFF WRITER

A

visionary and innovator as described by one of his original students, Nick Bollettieri had a way of seeing exactly what his students and athletes needed.

The founder of the Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy, which launched in 1978 at Longboat Key’s Colony Beach & Tennis Resort and is now known as IMG Academy in west Bradenton, Bollettieri died Dec. 4. He was 91.

“Without the Colony Beach hotel I wouldn’t be here,” he told the Longboat Observer in 2014.

In 1977, Colony owner Murray “Murf” Klauber scheduled an interview with Bollettieri.

As Klauber told the Longboat Observer in 2014, the publisher of Tennis magazine called him and told him not to hire Bollettieri, which piqued Klauber’s interest. Klauber told Bollettieri he wanted to make

the Colony the No. 1 tennis resort in America.

Bollettieri agreed to Klauber’s stipulations, including all-white uniforms with Colony logos, allowing women to start playing at 8 a.m. and morning lessons on Saturdays and Sundays — both unheard of in tennis at the time.

Bollettieri almost had a sixth sense for coaching, with Jimmy Arias, IMG Academy’s director of tennis and one of Bollettieri’s first students, calling him the “master of motivation.”

Now, with Arias almost in the same position at the IMG Academy that Bollettieri held, he says that was the one leadership lesson he tried to learn from Bollettieri, while admitting he’s not as good at it as his predecessor. “I’m trying to get there.”

When Arias was growing up, he says, the thing to do for all athletes was to attend college before becoming a professional. “Nobody turned pro as a teenager,” he says.

But when he was 16 years old, Bollettieri pushed Arias to dream bigger.

Going up against the No. 6 ranked player in the world at the time, the match really didn’t count for anything until Bollettieri told Arias, “That’s it, you’re turning pro,” after Arias won the match. “Nick knew

File photo

I was ready,” he says, noting that those were the best years of his tennis career.

“Nick was an innovator,”Arias says. “He had a dream that he wanted to do something that hadn’t been done before in tennis.”

He wanted to build a school for athletes to receive an education while having the opportunity to expand their tennis skills. And that’s exactly what he did. IMG Academy has since become a go-to school and sports training facility, with nationally ranked teams in multiple sports.

It’s also one of the largest employers in Manatee County.

The academy was focused on providing physical training, immersion and ongoing competition, the release from IMG states. Throughout his career, Bollettieri coached 10 of the world’s No. 1 players, including

Andre Agassi, Boris Becker, Jim Courier, Maria Sharapova, Venus Williams and Serena Williams, among others. Agassi was one of many tennis stars who went to social media to honor their coach and mentor. A Dec. 5 tweet from Agassi stated: “Our dear friend, Nick Bollettieri, graduated from us last night. He gave so many a chance to live their dream. He showed us all how life can be lived to the fullest … Thank you, Nick.”

On the academy where Bollettieri made a name for himself, Arias says “it gave us all an opportunity to improve over competitors.”

Skills are one thing to be gained from an academy like this, but a lot of the success that has come through those doors really start with the mental aspect of the game.

“If anyone put you in a box,” Arias says, “he would prove them wrong.”

Bollettieri almost had a sixth sense for coaching.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

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Organizers Jane Wittlinger and Ann Walborn backstage in the kitchen.

The live nativity draws a crowd on the sidewalk.

Jack, Kevin and Karen Randolph

Zach Stobaugh and Tatiana Clegg play Joseph and Mary.

Jeri Nelson and a donkey. Petting zoo animals are part of the live nativity on St. Armands Circle.

Live nativity is a lasting tradition

P

Photos by Lesley Dwyer

Aarya Strnad steps out in a snow princess dress.

amazes me about the whole event is that you look out at the kids, and their little eyes light up. To me, that’s the best part of it.”

Visitors were allowed to pet the donkeys and get up close to the goats’ cage, but the camels were off limits. They were busy trimming the church’s trees by munching leaves off the high branches.

But the entertainment didn’t stop on four legs. A quartet led the crowd in a round of Christmas carols, and the Sarasota Contemporary Dance Ensemble performed throughout the evening.

This is a holiday tradition with no end in sight, even if no one can remember when it began.

etting zoos aren’t quite posh enough for St. Armands Circle on the average day, but once a year, the two make for a magical combination.

The sidewalk in front of St. Armands Key Lutheran Church was packed Friday night for its annual live nativity scene. Members can’t seem to settle on the year it started, but it’s been a handsdown favorite ever since.

While Jane Wittlinger says they’ve been doing the nativity for five or six years, Sandi Love says she’s been an angel for seven. Either way, Friday night was her husband David Lawrence’s reluctant debut performance as a shepherd.

“On the way over, he said I owe him big time,” Love said. “What

— LESLEY DWYER Bob Stobaugh plays one of the wisemen.

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Saturday at 5pm - Contemporary Style Worship Sunday Worship at 9am &11am - (Coffee Hour at 10am)

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UPCOMING EVENTS | JEWELRY FUNDRAISER Schoolhouse Link Fundraiser to Raise Money for College Scholarships for Our Homeless Youth Sat, December 10th from 10am-3pm THE QUIET CENTER: Music for Advent & Christmas feat. Thomas Keesecker Sat, December 10th at 6:30pm | Tickets: $25

ALL ARE WELCOME

St. Armands Key Lutheran Church • 40 North Adams Dr., Sarasota, FL • 941.388.1234 • Questions? Contact: michael@saklc.com

St. Mary, Star of the Sea,

All are welcome at All Angels no exceptions

Catholic Church

Would like to Welcome & Invite You, Your Family Members & Friends to Celebrate Mass with Our Parish Community SUMMER MASS SCHEDULE (May-December) Saturday: 4:00 PM Sunday: 8:30 AM and 10:30 AM Daily Mass at 9:00 AM; Rosary at 8:30 AM Monday - Friday Daily Chaplet of Divine Mercy following Mass

• In-person worship services Sunday at 10 a.m.

• Live-stream at AllAngelsLBK.org to participate on-line

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An Ecumenical Church that Welcomes all People Founded in 1956

Please join us for worship in person on Sunday at 10 a.m. or online at our website and Facebook Live Stream at 10 a.m.

6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive • Longboat Key, Florida 34228 • 941-383-6491

Follow us on Facebook • www.longboatislandchapel.org

Lord’s Warehouse hours are 9:00 - 1:00 on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays

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563 Bay Isles Rd • 941-383-8161 AllAngelsLBK.org

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• Discussion Groups on Tue & Wed at 10 a.m.

4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key, FL 34228 383-1255 • www.stmarylbk.org

Rev. Robert Dziedziak, Pastor

You are invited to join us in worship, song & friendship at Shabbat services every Sharing Values, Friendship, and Faith Friday evening at 5:30 pm and Saturdays at 10:00 am.

To learn more about our Temple and all our educational, cultural, and social programs, please call us. We’d be delighted to talk with you.

Questions? Email us at info@longboatkeytemple.org 567 Bay Isles Rd, Longboat Key, FL

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

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Classifieds 14B Games 13B Real Estate 11B Weather 13B

DECEMBER 8, 2022

YOUR NEIGHBORS

Same recipe, new home Kiwanis Lawn Party spreads out on City Island with more room, more people and more to eat.

LESLEY DWYER Photos by Lesley Dwyer

Penelope Hagan helps her mom, Rachel, at the Harry’s Continental Kitchen’s booth.

STAFF WRITER

A

Guests dine under a tent in Ken Thompson Park for the Lawn Party by the Bay on Saturday.

sunny day and a new location made the annual Kiwanis Lawn Party by the Bay bigger and better

No dog food vendors, but it didn’t stop a few pups from attending the Lawn Party.

than ever.

The fundraiser for the Children’s Guardian Fund was held on the traditional first Saturday in December, but for the first time, it was not on Longboat Key. For years, the party has bounced between locations on the island. Last year, 800 people attended the event at the Town Center Green. Because that location is still under construction, organizers moved the party over the bridge to City Island.

“Ken Thompson Park really proved to be a tremendous location for our event,” event Chair Michael Garey said. “We were able to have more restaurants participate. There was more space for the guests to enjoy, and we even had more space between the restaurants.”

Last year, 22 restaurants participated. With a larger location, six more joined the roster this time.

There were also five wine support-

ers, and Gold Coast Eagle provides the beer each year. Attendance rose by 100 guests.

Despite the location change, the concept remained the same — eat, drink, be merry and give.

The final donation numbers haven’t been tallied yet, but last year’s event raised more than $90,000.

Brian Costello spent $750 on raffle tickets alone. His generosity paid off when he won the $5,000 grand prize.

By a twist of fate and history, Scott MacDonald of Crab & Fin won second place. MacDonald’s family has supported the event since it was called the St. Judes Gourmet Luncheon more than 40 years ago. His father was one of the founders.

Regardless of its name, food has always been the main event. La Norma plated 600 meatballs, and Columbia served its famous 1905 salad, which Rick Rone called the “best salad anywhere on Longboat Key or St. Armands Circle.”

The father-and-son team of Robbie and Robbie Ball from the Blue Dolphin served up a dish that’s featured on their lunch menu. Their chilled gazpacho is grandma’s recipe.

Another favorite plate was the Longboat Key Fire Rescue’s firehouse chili. It would be easy to give these lifesavers a pass on their cooking skills, but they don’t need one. In their downtime, the amateur chefs have perfected an award-winning recipe they bring to the Morton’s Firehouse Chili Cook-off each year.

“We place almost every year,” firefighter Jason Berzowski said. “I’m the main chef, but everybody helps.

This is not a one-person event. We just keep tinkering with it over the years.”

One thing that looks like it won’t be tinkered with for next year’s lawn party is the new venue on City Island.

“Our biggest challenge, in my opinion, is the last four lawn parties have been in four different locations,” Garey said. “I can tell you with certainty, anything gets better with repetition and practice, and we are already working on improvements for next year.”

“I’m the main chef, but everybody helps. This is not a one-person event. We just keep tinkering with it over the years.”

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Joyce Welch walks past the band tent.

Jason Berzowski and Tim Haas, of Longboat Key Fire-Rescue, serve up their award-winning firehouse chili.

— Jason Berzowski

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

THURSDAY, DEC. 8

OFF THE CLOCK From 5-6:30 p.m. at Harry’s Continental Kitchens, 525 St. Judes Drive.

Bring an ornament that reflects your business or service to the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce annual holiday networking event. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. $5 for members; $10 for guests and future members. Call 383-2466 to RSVP.

SUNDAY, DEC. 11

OPEN HOUSE From 2-4 p.m. at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. Members and the public are invited to the preChanukah open house to see what’s new at the temple. Refreshments will be served. Call 383-3428 for more information.

MONDAY, DEC. 12

TOY DRIVE From noon-1 p.m. at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. Drive through the parking lot. Volunteers will be collecting toys for Second Chance Last Opportunity. Call 3833428 for information.

RECURRING EVENTS

WINTER FESTIVAL From 4-9 p.m. and from noon-9 p.m. on holiday weeks and weekends in St. Armands Circle. See the circle transformed into a winter wonderland until Jan. 3, 2023. Wristbands for attractions cost $10.

MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY

LONGBOAT LIBRARY The Longboat Library is open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday at 555 Bay Isles Road. On Wednesdays, most books are on sale for $1 or less. Call 383-2011 for information.

MONDAYS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

GENTLE CHAIR YOGA From 9-10 a.m. at the Education Center at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. Improve flexibility, strength and overall physical functioning while seated in a chair. Runs through Dec. 19. Students can join at any time on a prorated basis. Fee is $70 for members; $80 for nonmembers. Call 383-8222.

STRETCH & STRENGTHEN From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Focus is on strength training and flexibility for balance. Suzy Brenner leads the class. Fee is $10. Walk-ins welcome.

Call 383-6493.

BEST BET THURSDAY, DEC. 8

PET BLESSING 1-3 p.m. at All Angels by the Sea Episcopal Church, 563 Bay Isles Road. Bring your pets to be blessed by the Rev. David Marshall. Call 383-8161 for information.

THINKING OUT LOUD: TIMELY TOPICS WITH MIKE KARP From 1-2:30 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Topics will include U.S. and world current affairs, popular culture and topics relevant to seniors. Cost is $10.

Walk-ins welcome. Call 383-6493.

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND SATURDAYS

LORD’S WAREHOUSE THRIFT STORE The thrift store will be open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 6140 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

Donations are accepted during business hours. Call 383-4738.

TUESDAYS

QIGONG FOR HEALTH & VITALITY From 9-10 a.m. at the Education Center at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. Improve balance and flexibility, plus loosen joints and relax. Runs through Dec. 20. Students can join at any time on a prorated basis. Fee is $70 for members; $80 for nonmembers. Call 383-8222.

QI GONG From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Qi gong is a mind-body-spirit practice designed to improve mental and physical health. Class is outdoors, weather permitting. Cost is $10. Walk-ins welcome. Call 383-6493.

YOGA From 11:15-12:15 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road.

Debbie Debile of Feel Good Yoga & Massage leads a gentle yoga class that can be done on a mat or in a chair. Cost is $10; free for members.

Call 383-6493.

MAH JONGG From 1-3 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Fun time for experienced players. To check availability at the tables, email MaryAnnBrady@TheParadiseCenter.org.

Fox Leiter Team Navigating the Sarasota Real Estate Market for Over Four Decades.

File photo

TUESDAY AND THURSDAY

BREATH BALANCE AND BLISS YOGA From 10:30-11:30 a.m. at Bayfront Park Recreation Center, 4052 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Cost is $10 for members; $15 for nonmembers. Call 361-6411 ext. 2212.

WEDNESDAYS

YOGA POTPOURRI From 9-10 a.m. at the Education Center at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. A gentle, slow-paced blend of simple yoga postures focusing on balance, alignment, strength, breathwork, flexibility and relaxation.

Runs through Dec. 21. Students can join at any time on a prorated basis.

Fee is $70 for members; $80 for nonmembers. Call 383-8222.

BEGINNER TAI CHI From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Class is outdoors, weather permitting. Cost is $10. Walk-ins welcome. Call 3836493.

THURSDAYS

SLOW FLOW YOGA From 9-10 a.m. at the Education Center at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. Simple yoga routines incorporating a range of several hatha yoga styles. Improve spinal flexibility and core strength for all fitness levels. Runs through Dec. 22, students can join at any time on a prorated basis. Fee is $70 for members; $80 for nonmembers.

Call 383-8222.

ST. ARMANDS KEY LUTHERAN CHURCH BRIDGE CLUB Every Thursday beginning at 1 p.m. at St. Armands Key Lutheran Church, 40 N. Adams Drive, join an ACBL-sanctioned game of contract bridge with a certified teacher. All skill levels are welcome. There is an $8 suggested donation for each session. Refreshments will be provided.

RSVP to 952-9251.

ZUMBA AND MAT PILATES FOR SENIORS From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. The class, designed for active seniors, starts with Zumba and shifts to all-level mat Pilates at 10:30 a.m. Come for 30 minutes or the full hour. Cost is $10. Walk-ins welcome. Call 3836493.

FRIDAYS

QI GONG AND MEDITATION From 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road, take qi gong and meditation with Sandi Love. Free for members; $10 for nonmembers. Call 383-6493.

INTERMEDIATE TAI CHI From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Reuben Fernandez teaches the class outdoors, weather permitting. Free for members; $10 for nonmembers.

Walk-ins welcome. Call 383-6493.

The Fox Leiter Team puts customer experience at the forefront of every decision, negotiation, and transaction.

With Compass, the team has every tool imaginable to give their clients a competitive edge.

Contact the Fox Leiter Team to start the conversation today!

Fox Leiter Team Real Estate Advisors 941.544.6649 | foxleiterteam@compass.com foxleiterteam.com

Interested in learning more?

Scan the QR code!

Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

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YOUR CALENDAR

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

3B

#1 LONGBOAT KEY TEAM 2021 Michael Saunders & Company Follow on Instagram @LongboatLife

BENCH MBAE R KHRMEA SU ARRKK Z ED NC R K LTS RESU• LTSST• R S TAT R AEGIC GEGIC M MA ETET I N IGNG • P E•R SPER O NASONA L I Z E D SLEIRV I C E SERV ICE

W NE

G IN T S LI

RECENT ACTIVITY

BENCH M A R K R E SU LTS • S T R AT EGIC M A R K ET I NG • PER SONA L EI! Z ED SERV ICE M O NC I T EA R G

on g b o at K e y | O f f e re d a t $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4178487

2067 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4

2067 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E

L on g b o at K e y | O f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4178487

L on g b o at K e y | O f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 MLS# A4178487

4725 GULF OF MEXICO DR #213 | $799,000

CONRAD BEACH CUSTOM HOME

311 FIRHOUSE COURT | OFFERED ATR$1,995,000 2067 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4 2067 H A BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4

2067 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4

L onThis g b o a3t bed K e ycustom | O f f home e re d aexemplifies t $ 7 79, 0 0coastal 0 L on g b oterrces, a t K e an y | observation O f f e re d adeck t $ 7 79, 000 living with multiple to enjoy MLS# A4178487 MLS# A4178487 sunsets, an outdoor shower, 2 car garage and the finest details throughout.

There is also deeded beach

L on g b o a t K e y | O f f e re d a t $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4178487 LD O S ST U J

access, a community pool house and a public boat ramp nearby. This is a Must See! MLS# A4553880

7 H A R BOUR

ED ST I LINKS TL S JU

DR I V E, #4

on g b o at K e y | O f f e re d a t $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4178487

2067 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4 L on g b o a t K e y | O f f e re d a t $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4178487

2067 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4

2067 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E

L on g b o at K e y | O f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4178487

L on g b o at K e y | O f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 MLS# A4178487

3550 FAIR LANE LINKS | $3,600,000DR I V E, #4 2067 H AOAKS R BOUR

2067 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4 L on g b o a t K e y | O f f e re d a t $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4178487

U

7 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4

2067 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4

on g b o at K e y | O f f e re d a t $ 7 79, 0 0 0 HARBOUR TOWERS L on g b o at K e y | O f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 LIDO RETREAT MLS# A41784871770 BENJAMIN FRANKLIN DR #201 | OFFERED MLS# A4178487 AT $1,050,000 2067 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4 2067 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4 L on g b oThis a t K3ebed/2 y | O fbath f e recondo d a t $offers 7 79,direct, 0 0 0 unobstructive views L onof g bthe o aGulf t K efrom y | Oaf2nd f e refloor d a t vantage. $ 7 79, 0 0 0 There is an under building parking space, secure building entryA4178487 and MLS# A4178487 MLS#

a beach front pool and club house.

MLS# A4553506

I A N A DDY, PA IRAEN DDY, PA A LA TO R ®, M B A R E A LT O R ®, M B A

IanAddy@MichaelSaunders. com IanAddy@MichaelSaunders.com

ER D N

L on g b o a t K e y | O f f e re d a t $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4178487 T AC R NT O C

2067 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E

L on g b o at K e y | O f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 MLS# A4178487 2067 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4

L on g b o a tLINKS K e y |DRIVE O f f e re d a t $ 7 79, 0 0 0 2067 HARBOUR | $1,575,000 MLS# A4178487

G A I L W IT T IG

G ABIRLOW K EIT R -T A IG SSOCI ATE

BROK E R-A SSOCI ATE GailWittig@MichaelSaunders. co GailWittig@MichaelSaunders. com

941.387.0100 941.387.0100

W W W . L O N G B O AT L I F E . C O M

389911-1

7 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

PET PICS

EXCEEDING SELLERS’ EXPECTATIONS ON LONGBOAT KEY

Have photos of your four-legged family members? We want to see them! Share them at YourObserver.com/contests/petpics to be published online and for a chance to see them in print!

JUST LISTED

NEW LISTING!

...AND L’ELEGANCE CONDO UNDER CONTRACT SELLERS’ ON EXPECTATIONS LIDO BEACH!

EXCEEDING 1800 Benjamin 2326 HARBOUR OAKS DR. ON LONGBOAT 3 BR | KEY 2.5Dr. BA B206 | 2,282 SF Franklin $1,225,000 MLS#SF A4550092 3 BR | 3 BA | |2090 $3,200,000 | MLS# A4553940

BUILD YOUR JUST LISTED DREAMHOME!

...AND JUST LISTED UNDER CONTRACT 540 HARBOR COVE CIRCLE ...AND VACANT LAND LISTING UNDER CONTRACT 2326 HARBOUR OAKS DR. $3,400,000 3Residential BRHARBOUR | 2.5 BA | 2,282 SF DR. 2326 OAKS MLS# A4534178 $1,225,000 | MLS# A4550092 3 BR | 2.5Land BA MLS# | 2,282 SF Vacant A4535177 $1,225,000 | MLS# A4550092

BUILD YOUR HOME SALES IN LAST SIX MONTHS DREAMHOME!

2341 HARBOUR OAKS CIR. SOLD FOR $1,275,000

3555 FAIR OAKS LANE SOLD FOR $2,300,000 540 HARBOR COVE CIRCLE

2101 HARBOURSIDE DRIVE SOLD FOR $1,310,000

580 BIRDIE LANE $3,400,000 Residential A4534178 SOLD FOR MLS# $4,260,000

VACANT LAND LISTING

Vacant Land MLS# A4535177

HOME SALES IN LAST SIX MONTHS 2341 HARBOUR OAKS CIR. SOLD FOR $1,275,000

3555 FAIR OAKS LANE SOLD FOR $2,300,000

2101 HARBOURSIDE DRIVE SOLD FOR $1,310,000

580 BIRDIE LANE SOLD FOR $4,260,000

JULIE KLICK

BEVERLY ST. HILAIRE

JulieKlick@michaelsaunders.com

beverlysthilaire@michaelsaunders.com BeverlySellsSarasota.com

818.416.2505

941.780.6001 LivingonLongboat.com

Longtime residents of Longboat Key with over 30 years of combined experience specializing in Longboat Key real estate.

WHATCHA THINKING? Charlie chillin’ by the pool on Longboat Key.

JULIE KLICK

818.416.2505

941.780.6001

61 S. Boulevard of the Presidents | Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941.388.4447 | www.michaelsaunders.com beverlysthilaire@michaelsaunders.com JulieKlick@michaelsaunders.com BeverlySellsSarasota.com LivingonLongboat.com

391894-1

BEVERLY ST. HILAIRE

Longtime residents of Longboat Key with over 30 years of combined experience specializing in Longboat Key real estate.

A Luxurious and Unique

Total Renovation!

Waterfront Home

Custom Home Overlooking the Oaks Club

61 S. Boulevard of the Presidents | Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941.388.4447 | www.michaelsaunders.com

Total renovation overlooking th

Total renovation overlook

Total renovation overlooking the Oaks Club A Luxurious and Unique Waterfront home with a dock and 12,000 lb lift.

3 bedrooms plus a den all with en-suite bathrooms in 3410 sq.ft.

High end finishes throughout with a tropical paradise out back Total renovation that includes a large in deck spa and a custom firepit.

overlooking the Oaks Club

3342 Gulf of Mexico Dr, Longboat Key Offered Turnkey furnished at $2,898,000.

MLS# A4549127

Total renovation overlooking the Oaks Club

110 North Creek Lane • Oak Creek • Osprey • 3 BR + loft • 3.5 BA • 4071 SF • $ 1.39M • MLS # A4549599 Extensive custom home renovation just completed! As soon as you cross the threshold, you’re greeted by a grand 2-story tall foyer, and long golf course views of the Oaks Club main clubhouse. Trees, ponds, and fairways are your rear sightlines – not homes. The first floor features a master suite on the main level, formal living and dining at the of the home, separate family room at the rear facing the golf course, a breakfast room with 2 walls of windows, 110 front North Creek Lane • Oak Creek • Osprey • 3 BR + loft • 3.5 BA • 4071 SF • $ 1.39M • MLS # A4549599 kitchen with both a large eat-in kitchen island and additional serving counter for the family room, a 22’ long butler’s Extensive custom home renovation completed!

As soon as you pantry hallway with both upper and lower cabinets,just and an immense laundry/craft room/home office cross that’s 11’ the x 19’ threshold, you’re greeted by a grand in itself. The second floor features a sizable loft/sitting room at the top of the stairs and two large guestrooms (with 2-story tall foyer, and long golf course views of the Oaks Club main clubhouse.

Trees, ponds, and fairways are your ensuite full baths). Call Paul Stern at 941.330.3051 for further details.

rear sightlines – not homes. The first floor features a master suite on the main level, formal living and dining at the STERN front of the home, separate family PAUL room at the rear facingJAMIE the STERN golf course, a breakfast room with 2 walls of windows, 110 North Creek Lane • Oak Creek • Osprey • 3 BR + loft • 3.5 BA • 4071 SF • $ 1.39M • MLS # A4549599 941.330.3051 210.612.6654 M both a large eat-inby kitchen island and additional serving counter for the family room, a 22’ long butler’s paul@sarasotabrokers.com jamie@sarasotabrokers.com Extensive custom home renovation just completed! As kitchen soon as youwith cross the threshold, you’re greeted a grand 2-story tall foyer, and long golf course views of the Oaks Club main clubhouse. Trees, ponds, and fairways are your pantry hallway with both upper and lower cabinets, and an immense laundry/craft room/home office that’s 11’ x 19’ rear sightlines – not homes. The first floor features a master suite on the main level, formal living and dining at the front of the home, separate family room at the rear facing the golf course, a breakfast room with 2 walls of windows, in 110 itself.

The second features sizable • loft/sitting at the top •of3.5 the BA stairs two guestrooms (with North Creekfloor Lane • Oaka Creek Ospreyroom • 3 BR + loft • and 4071 SFlarge • MLS # A4549599 kitchen with both a large eat-in kitchen island and additional serving counter for the family room, a 22’ long butler’s ensuite full baths).

Call Paul Stern at 941.330.3051 for further details. pantry hallway with both upper and lower cabinets, and an immense laundry/craft room/home office that’s 11’ x 19’ Extensive custom home renovation just completed! As soon as you cross the threshold, you’re in itself. The second floor features a sizable loft/sitting room at the top of the stairs and two large guestrooms (with greeted ensuite full baths). Call Paul Stern at 941.330.3051 for further details. by a grand 2-story tall foyer, and long golf course views of the Oaks Club main 110 North Creek Lane • Oak Creek • Osprey • 3 BR + loft • 3.5 BA • 4071 SF • $ 1.39M • MLS # clubhouse. Trees, ponds, and fairways are your rear sightlines – not homes.

The first floor features PAUL STERN As soon as you cross JAMIE Extensive custom home renovation justliving completed! theSTERN threshold, you’re PAUL STERN JAMIE STERN a master suite on the main level, formal and dining at the front of the home, separate familygreeted by 110 North Creek Lane • Oak Creek • Osprey • 3 BR + loft • 3.5 BA • 4071 SF • $ 1.39M • MLS # A4549599 941.330.3051 210.612.6654 M 941.330.3051 210.612.6654 M 2-story tall foyer, and long golf course views of the Oaks Club main clubhouse.

Trees, ponds, room at the rear facing the golf course, apaul@sarasotabrokers.com breakfast room with 2 walls ofjamie@sarasotabrokers.com windows, kitchen with and fairway Extensive custom home renovation just completed! As soon as you cross the threshold, you’re greeted by a grand paul@sarasotabrokers.com jamie@sarasotabrokers.com 2-story tall foyer, and long golf course views of the Oaks Club main clubhouse. Trees, ponds, and fairways are your both a large eat-in kitchen island and additional serving counter for the family room, 22’ long rear sightlines – not homes. The first floor features a master suite on the main level,a formal living and din rear sightlines – not homes. The first floor features a master suite on the main level, formal living and dining at the front of the home, separate family room at the rear facing the golf course, a breakfast room with 2 walls of windows, butler’s pantry hallway with both upper and lower cabinets, and an immense laundry/craft room/ front of the home, separate family room at the rear facing the golf course, a breakfast room with 2 walls kitchen with both a large eat-in kitchen island and additional serving counter for the family room, a 22’ long butler’s home office that’s 11’ x 19’ in itself. The second floor features a sizable loft/sitting room at the top pantry hallway with both upper and lower cabinets, and an immense laundry/craft room/home office that’s 11’ x 19’ with both largeguestrooms eat-in kitchen island andfull additional of kitchen the stairs and twoalarge (with ensuite baths). serving counter for the family room, a 22’ lo in itself. The second floor features a sizable loft/sitting room at the top of the stairs and two large guestrooms (with ensuite full baths). Call Paul Stern at 941.330.3051 for further details.

• 32 year Longboat Key Resident • Top Agent - 2019, 2020, 2021 Mid-Longboat Key office • Top 1.5% Florida Realtors - Real Trends America’s Best Realtors • Professional Stager • Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist • Voted Sarasota Magazine Best in Customer Service

941.302.4913

PAUL STERN 941.330.3051 paul@sarasotabrokers.com

JAMIE STERN 210.612.6654 M jamie@sarasotabrokers.com

JoDeneMoneuse@michaelsaunders.com LongboatKeyLiving.com

1.39M

pantry hallway with both upper and lower cabinets, and an immense laundry/craft $ room/home office that in itself. The second floor features a sizable loft/sitting room at the top of the stairs and two large guestro ensuite full baths). Call Paul Stern at 941.330.3051 for further details.

Call Paul Stern at 941.330.3051 for further details.

PAUL STERN • 941.330.3051 PAUL STERN JAMIE STERN 941.330.3051 Paul@sarasotabrokers.com 210.612.6654 M paul@sarasotabrokers.com

393965-1 XNLV21244

JODENE MONEUSE – YOUR LOCAL REALTOR®

390138-1

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jamie@sarasotab

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

JUDY KEPECZ-HAYS TEAM

|

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

5B

December 8, 2022

SARABANDE

340 South Palm Ave #75 3 bed, 3.5 bath | 2,761 Sq Ft www.Sarabande75.com Offered for $2,888,000

nt e em r! ov Offe r mp nts I ice Wa Pr ller Se

This stunning contemporary home is on Palm Avenue, in the heart of downtown. Instant enjoyment is yours in this 3 bedroom en-suite plus a powder room with a bonus of 2 underbuilding parking spaces & storage. Stunning views with wraparound, floor-to-ceiling windows, & doors bringing the outside in. Just a short walk to Marina Jack, restaurants, the opera, theaters, & Whole Foods Market!

MARBLEHEAD 2509 Marblehead Drive 3 bed, 3.5 bath | 2,869 Sq Ft www.2509MarbleheadDrive.com Offered for $1,185,000 Be amazed at every detail in this beautiful upgraded home in the heart of Sarasota. Quiet location within walking distance to Riverview High School a short distance to Phillippi Shores Elementary, Landings Shopping Center, downtown & Siesta Keys' world-famous beach.

This home is beyond expectation and ready for instant enjoyment!

THE STRAND 1709 N Tamiami Trl Unit #221 1 bed, 1.5 bath | 1,013 Sq Ft Offered for $625,000 - Furnished This incredible one bedroom, one and half bath condo features exquisite water views from the long canal that lead out to Sarasota Bay. The Strand is a private gated community offering a resort style pool and spa , fitness center, dog park, EV charging station, boardwalk, and a kayak and paddle-board launch. Get ready to create lasting memories!

Thinking of selling your Residence? Please call me!

423 St. Armands Circle | Sarasota, Florida 34236 595 Bay Isles, Suite 250| Longboat Key, FL 34228

393900-1

LongboatKeyLuxury.com | (941) 587-1700

6B

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

Christ Church sets up a food and toy drive in their parking lot on Wednesday morning.

Twin sisters Bonnie Schneider and Annie Pelgen drop off two bags of food and three bags of toys.

Christ Church collects food, diapers and toys.

Mike McCulough’s truck was filled during the toy and food drive.

Volunteers pack for another delivery to Our Daily Bread of Bradenton,

TRAVEL AGENT • CHRISTA’S TRAVELS

&

LOCAL PERSONAL

Specializing in Africa south of the Sahara

Bring a new unwrapped toy

by Dec. 10 and receive $50 OFF Four Toyo Tires.

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ALIDAMOOTY.INTELETRAVEL.COM

CHRISTA’S TRAVELS

CHRISTAMOOTY@GMAIL.COM

You dream,

I MAKE IT HAPPEN

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• Asia • Down Under

HAIR • NAILS • SPA NOW OFFERING Biosculpture Gel and Dazzle Dry

Now is a GREAT Now GREAT time is toaSELL! time to SELL!

WELCOME

BACK!!

WHY? WHY?

L E S

Our sellers are receiving Our sellers are receiving multiple offers and top dollar! multiple offers and top dollar!

C I S E A U X

6 N Blvd of the Presidents | St Armand’s Circle | Above Columbia | 941-388-2176

393875-1

www.LCSalonSpa.com

Serving the Community since 1985

Consider Selling Your Property In ThisProperty Robust Market Consider Selling Your

In This Robust Market

Consider Selling Your Property In This Robust Market Call today for a no-obligation, no-cost market analysis!

Home values are up. Inventory is low...it’s a seller’s market.

CallGet today for trusted a no-obligation, no-cost analysis! the most source of local market market conditions from Home values arereal up.estate Inventory is low...it’sata Wagner seller’s market. your local area professionals Realty.

Get the most trusted source of local market conditions from your local area real estate professionals at Wagner Realty.

Call our experts at Wagner Realty Call our experts Dia Wilson Rae Ellen Hayo at941.383.5577 Wagner Realty More than 35 years of combined experience 941.383.5577 Dia Wilson Rae Ellen Hayo Longboat Key Office • 5360 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Ste 101 • Longboat Key, FL More than 35 years of combined experience

Longboat Anna Maria Island • Sarasota Longboat Key Office • 5360 Gulf of Mexico Drive,Key Ste•101 • Longboat Key, FL

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Lakewood Ranch • East & West Bradenton

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ALSO: • Accomodation • Trains • US • Resorts • Gatherings • Africa • Flights • Europe

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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7B

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

First Physicians Group Welcomes

Ariella Price, MD We are pleased to welcome a new obstetrics and gynecology specialist to the First Physicians Group (FPG) network. Dr. Price treats a variety of obstetrical and gynecological concerns including menstrual irregularities and premenstrual syndrome, pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum depression, infertility, sexual dysfunction, endometriosis, premature ovarian failure and osteoporosis.

She provides annual preventative care for her patients including pelvic exams, pap smears, and contraception.

Specialty: Obstetrics and Gynecology Medical School: Florida State University College of Medicine, Tallahassee, FL

Photos by Lesley Dwyer

Cindy Ritchell, Ann Quackenbush, Karen Fors, Steve Bergman, Marc Fors, Sue Wertman and Mike McCulough help organize donations.

Residency: Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA

Christ Church collects toys for Our Daily Bread million meals since opening in 1984. The majority of those served are not homeless but struggling, many of whom have children.

Charlotta Langley strolled up with a Publix bag, pushing a pink and blue bike with silver streamers. The handlebars read “Seastar.”

Annie Pelgen was in town from Kentucky, visiting her twin sister, Bonnie Schneider, for Thanksgiving. The sisters dropped off two bags of food and three bags of toys.

In total, 40 donors contributed.

Now Accepting New Patients!

(941) 917-7888

Waldemere Medical Plaza 1921 Waldemere St., Ste. 802 firstphysiciansgroup.com

393905-1

C

hristmas is approaching, and Christ Church is collecting toys.

Parishioners ran a drive-thru toy and food drive for Our Daily Bread of Bradenton on Nov. 30.

Donations piled up before the event.

Members delivered two carloads of food and toys including four bicycles on Saturday. The final push brought in six more bikes and two more carloads.

“On Dec. 22, they hand out the toys to the children,” Sue Wertman said. “Last year, they had about 100 kids. We just enjoy giving back to the community.”

Our Daily Bread has served more than 2

— LESLEY DWYER

GETTING PAID IS EASY

Sell Us Your Valuables For The Highest Price

Coins l Currency l Diamonds l Gold l Jewelry l Military l Platinum l Silver l Sports Cards l Comic Books l Better Watches

FRrEbE al

Ve isals ra App

We Buy & Sell All Precious Metal Coins & Bars

Attention Attorneys: Eastern offers Estate Appraisals for all items we purchase. We are a Federally Licensed Firearms Dealer and provide firearms removal, storage and appraisals. See us at www.USCOINS.com

Call For an Appointment

Eastern Numismatics The Coin & Jewelry Exchange 1-800-835-0008

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11 Years at the Same Location

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WE BUY IT ALL

Call For The Current Price

8B

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

S E A F O O D E AT E RY I N S O U T H S I D E V I L L AG E

EAT LOCAL

EAT FRESH

ORDER ONLINE ReefCakes.com

1812 S. Osprey Ave. Sarasota, FL 34239 941-444-7968

393813-1

Open Tuesday - Friday 11am to 9pm Saturday 3 to 9pm Closed Sundays & Mondays

Photos by Lauren Tronstad

Residents at Longboat Harbour tapped into their creative side for the Lighting of the Docks event.

Palm tree decorations were on many of the docks at Longboat Harbour in celebration of the holidays in Florida.

Growing in Jesus’ Name

SERVICE OF NINE LESSONS WITH C AROLS

Longboat Harbor lights up giving goal

The Reverend Dr. Norman Pritchard Sunday, December 11th - 10:00 AM

A

The Choir of Christ Church of Longboat Key, with instrumentalists, will lead the SERVICE OF NINE LESSONS WITH CAROLS on Sunday, December 11, at our regular Sunday service at 10:00 AM. The service tells the story of God's interaction with the world which led to the birth of the Messiah, using key passages of scripture interpreted by carols sung by the Choir and congregation.

All are welcome for this joyous Christmas tradition.

Men’s Bible Study: Mondays: 9:00 AM • Women’s Bible Study : Wednesdays: 10:00 AM Visitors & Residents Welcome • Childcare Available

6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive • 941.383.8833 (office) • www.christchurchoflbk.org

389793-1

Watch Sunday sermons LIVE at 10:00 am: www.bit.ly/cclbksermons

ll 52 docks were decorated for Longboat Harbour Condominium’s annual Lighting of the Docks event.

Some of the docks had themes, including those that paid tribute to celebrating the holidays in Florida.

Lights were strung around posts, inflatable Santas were set up and even some of the residents’ boats were decked out in holiday style.

Each year, the residential complex raises money for Toys for Tots as part of the event. This year, about $5,300 was raised, according to condo Commodore Bill Coughlin.

“We crushed our Toys for Tots goal,” he told residents at the awards ceremony.

The goal this year was to raise at least $4,000, he said.

Each resident with a dock who participated in the event, in this case all of them, received a yacht club goodie bag and coffee mug.

The top five finalists received a $75 gift card to Lazy Lobster. The next five received $25 gifts to the restaurant.

“It’s great seeing old people have this kind of fun,” Coughlin said.

Jane Hunter and John Wheeland were among the top five finalists, which they said is not unusual for them.

They have placed first or in the top five for the last three years.

This year, their dock was an undertaking.

“Each pole took us about three-and-ahalf hours to do,” Hunter said. ­— LAUREN TRONSTAD

EARLY HOLIDAY

DEADLINES 2022 DON’T MISS

TEMPLE BETH ISRAEL OF LONGBOAT KEY Sharing Values, Friendship, and Faith

These Special Editions!

Come See What’s Happening at Temple Beth Israel!

DECEMBER 22

Christmas issue: Letters to Santa, Holiday Traditions Deadline: Wednesday, 12/14, 4pm

Join Us at a Pre-Chanukah Open House Temple Beth Israel welcomes the holiday season with a PreChanukah Open House on Sunday, December 11, 2022, from 2:00 – 4:00 pm. The gift shop will be open for last-minute shopping, and there will be a raffle for a wonderful gift and refreshments including jelly donuts, coffee, and apple cider.

DECEMBER 29 Year in Review Deadline: Thursday, 12/15, 4pm

The Open House is a great opportunity to learn more about Temple Beth Israel, its exciting cultural and educational programs, tour the building, and meet Rabbi Sniderman.

JANUARY 5 Issues to Watch in 2023 Deadline: Tuesday, 12/20, 4pm

ALL ARE WELCOME!

The Observer Media Group offices will be closed starting December 23 returning on January 3.

For more information, call our office at 941-383-3428 or email us at office@longboatkeytemple.org.

RESERVE YOUR ADVERTISING SPACE TODAY!

Visit us online! www.longboatkeytemple.org

Contact your OMG representative at 941.366.3468 or email advertise@yourobserver.com

Visit us online at www.longboatkeytemple.org

393501-1

567 Bay Isles Road Longboat Key, FL 34228 941.383.3428 info@longboatkeytemple.org

393836-1

Temple Beth Israel

YourObserver.com

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

9B

UROLOGIC CARE

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

We’ve got this down to a ‘P’ Excellence is never a one-time thing. And consistency is the difference between practice and perfection.

At Sarasota Memorial, our multi-disciplinary team of urologists and urologic surgeons knows this. And armed with the latest in diagnostic technology and trained in the latest interventions — including minimally invasive robotic surgery — they have consistently led the way in treating everything from chronic kidney disease and acute bladder dysfunction to troublesome prostate enlargement and complex genitourinary cancers, earning national recognition for both innovation and excellence along the way.

So it’s no surprise U.S. News & World Report has named SMH the #1 hospital in Florida for urologic care.

After all, we’ve got this down to a, well, you know.

393722-1

smh.com/urology

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

LONGBOAT KEY 545 Kingfisher Lane 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 4,646 Sq. Ft. The Walter Group & Steve Walter 941-232-2000 A4553162 $4,995,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3331 Bayou Sound 5 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,600 Sq. Ft. Ryan Heers 941-726-1703 A4550667 $3,985,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 6509 Gulf Drive 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 2,954 Sq. Ft. Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4550326 $3,850,000

LONGBOAT KEY 540 Harbor Cove Circle 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,081 Sq. Ft. Julie Klick & Beverly St Hilaire 941-780-6001 A4534178 $3,400,000

LONGBOAT KEY 830 Tarawitt Drive 4 Beds 3 Baths 2,447 Sq. Ft. The Walter Group 941-232-2000 A4545868 $3,100,000

LONGBOAT KEY 7110 Longboat Drive E 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,700 Sq. Ft. Kathy Callahan 941-900-8088 A4550284 $3,000,000

LONGBOAT KEY 690 Russell Street 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 2,457 Sq. Ft. Kathy Harman 941-900-9828 A4549985 $3,000,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 520 58th Street 5 Beds 3/2 Baths 3,414 Sq. Ft. Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4545105 $2,995,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3342 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 3 Beds 4 Baths 3,410 Sq. Ft. Jodene Moneuse 941-302-4913 A4549127 $2,898,000

ANNA MARIA 210 Periwinkle Plaza 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,495 Sq. Ft. Louise Hollander 941-224-4483 A4551311 $2,650,000

ST. ARMANDS KEY 315 Jackson Drive 2 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,514 Sq. Ft. Terri Derr 941-356-6694 A4546074 $2,450,000

LONGBOAT KEY 529 Bayview Drive 4 Beds 3 Baths 2,808 Sq. Ft. The Walter Group 941-232-2000 A4550389 $1,995,000

ANNA MARIA 709 Gladiolus Street 4 Beds 3 Baths 1,933 Sq. Ft. Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4552297 $1,875,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 218 82nd Street 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,802 Sq. Ft. Kathy Harman 941-900-9828 A4541555 $1,745,000

LONGBOAT KEY 2550 Harbourside Drive 322 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,830 Sq. Ft. Rachel Benderson & Stacy Hanan 941-376-0218 A4547892 $1,600,000

LONGBOAT KEY 530 De Narvaez Drive 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,944 Sq. Ft. Jodene Moneuse 941-302-4913 A4553308 $1,425,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 13329 Sorrento Way 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,400 Sq. Ft. Brian Loebker 941-735-4393 A4550894 $1,250,000

LONGBOAT KEY 100 Sands Point Road 208 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,492 Sq. Ft. Steve Walter & Janet Walter 941-809-0907 A4550818 $1,150,000

LIDO KEY 1770 Benjamin Franklin Drive 201 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,413 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy, PA & Gail Wittig, LLC 941-961-8850 A4553506 $1,050,000

LONGBOAT KEY 751 Russell Street 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,050 Sq. Ft. Cindy Fischer 941-465-1124 A4550014 $949,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3630 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 201 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,486 Sq. Ft. Sean Clark & JoDene Moneuse 941-312-1146 A4548094 $945,000

LONGBOAT KEY 4800 Gulf Of Mexico Drive PH4 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,312 Sq. Ft. Tryla Brown Larson 941-962-1122 A4539305 $855,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3806 Gulf Of Mexico Drive C404 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,514 Sq. Ft. Stephen Harris 941-780-2352 A4536940 $840,000

LIDO KEY 1001 Benjamin Franklin Drive 201 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,293 Sq. Ft. Camille Buck 941-894-4771 A4552809 $795,000

LONGBOAT KEY 730 Spanish Drive S 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,255 Sq. Ft. Sean Clark 941-312-1146 A4541965 $715,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 622 N Point Drive 4 Beds 3/2 Baths 3,249 Sq. Ft. Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4548377 $4,950,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 101 Mangrove Avenue 5 Beds 1/1 Baths 2,522 Sq. Ft. Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4545903 $4,750,000

LONGBOAT KEY 540 Harbor Gate Way 5 Beds 6/1 Baths 5,048 Sq. Ft. Stacy Hanan 941-266-0529 A4548328 $4,500,000

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM 387870-1

10B

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

NOV. 21-25

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

Holiday slowdown County offices were closed Thursday and Friday, limiting the numbers of real estate transactions available for this week’s report.

Here are some top sellers from other barrier-island locations:

11B

REAL ESTATE

Regent Place condo sells for $4.55 million

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SIESTA KEY SIESTA KEY

ADAM HUGHES

Adam and Morgan Zanotti, trustees, of Palos Verdes Estates, California, sold two properties at 7303 Midnight Pass Road to Michael Andrew Sanchez, of Sarasota, for $5.25 million. The first property was built in 1978, it has three bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 5,547 square feet of living area.

The second property was built in 2000, it has one bedroom, one bath and 1,583 square feet of living area.

RESEARCH EDITOR

A

condominium in Regent Place tops all transactions in this week’s real estate.

Thomas Brett Stout and Nancy Adams Stout, of Oakton, Virginia, sold their Unit 26A condominium at 675 Longboat Club Road to David and Lisa Massad, of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, for $4.55 million.

Built in 1995, it has three bedrooms, three-and-ahalf baths and 3,564 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.65 million in 1999.

WHISPERING SANDS

Barbara Powers, trustee, of Oakwood Hills, Illinois, sold the Unit 1202 condominium at 19 Whispering Sands Drive to Joseph and Jennifer Jo Lower, of Palm Beach Gardens, for $1.35 million. Built in 1973, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,564 square feet of living area. It sold for $910,000 in 2017.

CRYSTAL SANDS

Morgan Florida Properties LLC sold the Unit 3 condominium at 6300 Midnight Pass Road to Reliable Ready Mix Inc. for $990,000. Built in 1969, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,253 square feet of living area. It sold for $400,000 in 2007.

THE PRIVATEER SOUTH

Kevin Colon, of Lakewood Ranch, sold his Unit 601 condominium at 1000 Longboat Club Road to Karen’s Paradise LLC for $1.28 million.

Built in 1972, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,409 square feet of living area. It sold for $775,800 in 2019.

BEACH HARBOR CLUB

Emily Jung, trustee, of Longboat Key, sold the Unit B-305 condominium at 3804 Gulf of Mexico Drive to William Krone and Shauna Leigh

File photo

Krone, of Parrish, for $350,000.

Built in 1970, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,007 square feet of living area. It sold for $72,500 in 1994.

Built in 1995, Unit 26A has three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths and 3,564 square feet of living area.

TOP BUILDING PERMITS These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of Nov. 25-Dec. 1 in order of dollar amounts.

L O N G B OAT K E Y ADDRESS 625 Jackson Way

PERMIT New single-family

APPLICANT Timothy C. Jones

In with the new NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION

AMOUNT($) $1,600,000

residence 611 Bowsprit Lane 1945 GMD #513 6700 GMD # 119

Remove and replace Diane R. Cornell

$247,867

seawall

Revocable Trust

Interior alterations

William G. Carroll

$148,119

Interior/exterior

Stephen P. Kranz

$115,440

Downtown St. Petersburg

alterations 602 Juan Anasco Drive

Interior alterations

Roger Lusins

$114,506

25 Lighthouse Pt. Drive

HVAC changeout

Laurie Branch

$58,487

replacement

Revocable Trust

Windows and doors

W. Mark Sterling

535 Sanctuary Dr. #C106

400 Central | 727.209.7848 | From the $1MM’s | Call for appointment. | Residences400central.com SOLD OUT

$46,063

Revocable Trust

1932 Harbourside

Windows and doors

Tina Long-Forslund

$38,267

3240 GMD #B204

Windows and doors

Arnold Rosenbaum

$33,994

5270 GMD Unit 508

Windows and doors

Thomas W. Bright

$29,672

573 Cutter Lane

AC changeout

Steven Gordon Fraser

$27,641

Dr. #244

Revocable Trust

4440 Exeter Drive

Windows and doors

Mary Ellen Kimura

$25,220

6701 GMD

Concrete repair

Whitney Beach III

$24,000

2295 GMD

Re-roof

Islander Club of Longboat

$23,105

548 Cutter Lane

Install gas line

548 Cutter Lane LLC

$21,000

6477 Gulfside Road

Pool resurface

Timothy C. Peterson

$20,198

2251 GMD

Bring cabana into

Aria Longboat Key Condo

$20,000

Aria Longboat Key Condo

$20,000

Aria Longboat Key Condo

$20,000

Unit 202

Longboat Key

The Residences at the St. Regis | 941.213.3300 | From $2.4MM to $10.9MM | Call for appointment | SRResidencesLongboatKey.com SOLD OUT

code compliance 2251 GMD

Bring cabana into

Downtown Sarasota

code compliance 2251 GMD

Bring cabana into code compliance

Wayne A. Swift

$18,670

AC changeout

Hans-Peter Teuber

$17,835

8 Winslow Place

Install generator

James D. Knight II

$17,000

675 Longboat Club

Wiring

Viviana Marquez

$16,000

Harbor Drive 580 Putting Green Lane

Road #26B

Revocable Trust

3030 Grand Bay

AC changeout

Neal Pollon

$15,131

AC changeout

Vizcaya at Longboat Key

$14,897

The Collection | 941.232.2868 | thecollection1335.com

Sales galleries open and available for virtual or in-person presentations.

Virtual home tours | OnDemand local experts | Interactive site and floorplans

Blvd. #321 2355 GMD

Source: Town of Longboat Key

mscdeveloperservices.com | 844.591.4333 | Sarasota, Florida Prices as of October 2022

Licensed Real Estate Broker

373682-1

Duro-Last recover

5960 Emerald

12B

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

Annual concert collects toys for Catholic Charities

S

t. Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church held its annual Christmas concert on Friday, Dec. 2. More than 100 people attended, and each brought an unwrapped toy as the standard price of admission.

“Every year, we do this,” Chuck Sobieck said. “They’re going to Catholic Charities in Sarasota.”

Church members belted “Hark, the Herald Angel Sing” during the singalong at the end of the concert, which featured a singer, flautist and pianist.

“The music blew everybody’s socks off,” George Noble raved.

After the concert, guests were invited to Pick Hall for a reception with cookies and punch.

Catholic Charities supports all ages, from early intervention through senior services in Sarasota and Manatee counties. Financial support, affordable housing, immigration assistance and counseling are among the agency’s services.

Photos by Lesley Dwyer

St. Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church holds its annual Christmas concert.

Pianist Lee Dougherty Ross

Karen Romig and Jennifer Harris perform at St. Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church.

— LESLEY DWYER

391946-1

Nancy White pours punch for Tom Vitro.

Living and Working on Longboat Key for 40 Years

Cathy C. Meldahl, P.A. Your Longboat Key Community Realtor • Consistent top producer on Longboat Key • In-depth knowledge of the real estate market • Active in our community with Longbeach Village Association Longboat Key Historical Society Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce Longboat Key Garden Club 390126-1

941.724.7228

CathyMeldahl@michaelsaunders.com

OPPORTUNITY ABOUNDS IN THIS COZY OASIS!

STOP BY for a SPECIAL HOLIDAY TREAT!

612 Marbury Lane - Sleepy Lagoon - LBK

OPEN SUNDAY

December 11th from 1 PM to 3 PM.

393728-1

392845-1

2/2 Canal front home on a 12,000 sq. foot lot! $1,375,000 Rebecca and Dave Samler | 941-737-7955 coastlinewestwagner.com

The Empath Tidewell Foundation welcomes you to the Tidewell Foundation Building showcasing an outstanding group of health and wellness organizations ready to brighten the lives of the Longboat Key community: Doc Side Audiology Essence of Soleil Massage

Fitness Quest Physical Therapy JFCS of the Suncoast

Walk-Ins Welcome for Fitness Classes! $10/Person FREE for Members

546 Bay Isles Rd, LBK 941.383.6493 More Info: TheParadiseCenter.org MONDAYS

TUESDAYS

WEDNESDAYS

THURSDAYS

FRIDAYS

10-11am Stretch & Strengthen

10-11am Qi Gong

10-11am Beginner Tai Chi

10-11am Zumba & Mat Pilates

Intermediate Tai Chi

NO QI GONG 12/27

11:15-12:15 Yoga 1-3pm

Thinking Out Loud Discussion Group Walk-Ins Welcome

1-3pm Mah Jongg RSVP Required:

MaryAnnBrady @TheParadiseCenter.org OR 941.383.6493

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! The Paradise Center will be closed Mon, December 26 and Mon, January 2.

10-11am

11:15-12:15 Qi Gong & Meditation

NO QI GONG 12/23

The Paradise Center & Medical Suite Youthful Aging Home Care

BECOME A 2023 MEMBER OF

THE PARADISE CENTER Attending & participating in our programs supports a socially active, healthy lifestyle!

JOIN TODAY &

RECEIVE DECEMBER

FREE!

To Join, Stop by or Visit: TheParadiseCenter.org

MEDICAL SUITE

544 Bay Isles Rd, LBK Call each practice directly to make your appointment!

Pickleball Basics

Certified Pickleball Instructor Terri Noyes will show us the basics of the game.

11:30am December 8

$10/person FREE for Members

WALK-INS WELCOME

MONDAYS & THURSDAYS Primary Care 941-278-6407 Daren Spinelle, MD

Still time to reserve your spot on our 2023 trip to CUBA! (Rates increase slightly after 12/9.)

To view full trip itinerary, visit

TheParadiseCenter.org.

Questions? Contact: Ms. Lael Hazan, Gracious Getaways 941-212-0411

TUESDAYS Acupuncture 941.556.8006 Dorian Kramer, DACM

WEDNESDAYS Podiatry 941.921.3000

SarasotaFootDoctors.com

Veterans’ Canteen

Sponsored by the

Rotary Club of LBK A welcoming space for our U.S. Veterans to connect, relax, share and support one another.

1-2pm December 14

FREE Admission

WALK-INS WELCOME

FRIDAYS Dermatology 941.926.6553

LuminaryDermatology.com 390170-1

540-546 Bay Isles Rd, Longboat Key TidewellFoundation.org 941.552.7546

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

SUNRISE / SUNSET

FRIDAY, DEC. 9

Sunrise Sunset

High: 76 Low: 64 Chance of rain: 7%

13B

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

WEATHER

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

FORECAST

|

Thursday, Dec. 8

7:07a

5:35p

Friday, Dec. 9

7:08a

5:35p

Saturday, Dec. 10

7:08a

5:35p

Sunday, Dec. 11

7:09a

5:35p

SATURDAY, DEC. 10

Monday, Dec. 12

7:10a

5:36p

High: 76 Low: 64 Chance of rain: 7%

Tuesday, Dec. 13

7:10a

5:36p

Wednesday, Dec. 14

7:11a

5:36p

MOON PHASES SUNDAY, DEC. 11 High: 77 Low: 64 Chance of rain: 7%

Dec. 16 Last

Dec. 23 New

Dec. 29 First

Jan. 6 Full

TIDES Highs Lows

Gary Wise took this photo of an agave plant on Longboat Key.

Thursday, Dec. 8

2:15p

10:45p

7:02a

4:48p

Friday, Dec. 9

3:02p

11:19p

7:38a

5:06p

Saturday, Dec. 10

—

11:57p

8:15a

—

Sunday, Dec. 11

—

—

8:55a

—

Monday, Dec. 12

12:40a

4:53p

9:37a

7:28p

Tuesday, Dec. 13

1:28a

5:21p

10:21a

8:58p

Wednesday, Dec. 14

2:24a

5:48p

11:05a

10:41p

Submit your photos at YourObserver.com/Weather. All submissions will be entered for the 2022-23 Weather and Nature photo contest. In February 2023, you will vote for your favorite photo, and the submission with the most votes will win a $500 gift card.

MANASOTA FLOORING INC 941.493.7441 | www.manasotaonline.com

crossword

celebrity cipher

THERE SEEMS TO BE A MIX-UP HERE by Paul Coulter, edited by Amanda Rafkin 59 Pittsburgh pro 62 Prepared to propose DOWN 63 Sewing edge 1 Expansive 64 Good point?

2 Part of a ruler’s break65 Like iris scanners and down? smartwatches 3 Shrek or Fiona, e.g.

66 Experiencing emotional 4 Certain interest collector upheaval 5 Pitcher’s pride 67 Scare greatly 6 Buffalo’s hockey team 69 Stuff to be crunched 7 Caught some Z’s 70 Blown away 8 Gives a hand to 72 Houses, in Spanish 9 Beetle juice?

73 Uma’s role in “Pulp 10 “Who ___ to argue?”

Fiction” 11 One-dimensional 77 “It’s ___ real!”

12 Less populated 79 Brooch 13 “The Persistence of 80 Time between birthdays Memory” artist 81 Poi source 14 Take care of a friend’s 82 Big name in ice cream kitty 84 Attempted 15 Highest card in most 86 Confidentiality contrick-taking games tracts (Abbr.)

16 “Sorry to hear it” 87 Like slasher films 17 Basic dog command 88 Part of UCLA 18 Part of some sweat89 Web design language shirts 92 “From what you’ve told 24 Dryer debris me ...”

25 Door in a fence 96 Warbles 30 Fail-proof course 97 Nonverbally complains 33 Glossary entry 98 Famed English prep 95 *Rages?

34 Pockets for falafel 68 *Sate?

34 Piece of land school 99 Sporty Chevys 36 Feels crummy 71 Canine expert’s deg.

35 Oatmeal bath target 99 Pulled parachute part 101 U-shaped string instru38 Most verdant 72 Movies 37 Worked hard 100 Anticipates 41 *Tastes?

74 A-line line ment 38 Mascara site, informally 103 Words on a teddy 45 Union station?

75 Works with a needle and 102 Like craft shows 39 Beauty chain with a bear’s shirt 46 Voting group thread 103 Wolves’ cries salon inside each store 104 Therefore 47 Surname in “Succes76 Asteroids maker 104 UFO crew 40 Store away 105 Garr of “Mr. Mom” 77 Waist band 106 “Same” sion” 41 Pie ___ mode 107 Cuatro y cuatro 78 “Malcolm X” director 108 Movie star’s vibe 48 Anjou alternative 42 MDs 108 Mystery writer, for Spike 109 Take a tumble 49 *Wreathe?

43 College application short?

113 Fight off 54 Rear end of a train or a 79 Unit of computer parts 110 Russo of “Ransom” storage 115 *Aspired? person 44 Part of an act 111 Eats at 83 Fixed fee 119 Give the third degree to 56 Peddle 46 Word before “Alps” or 112 “Check this out!”

85 *Dearth?

120 Layer of a farm?

57 Canal locale “mountain dog” 114 Antlered animal 58 Conical chocolate treat 90 Three-syllable smoothie 121 Motel offering 50 ___ mate (tealike drink) 116 (Back away from my berry 122 Comes up with ideas 60 Opposite of rural 51 Sob loudly bone!)

91 Big name in outdoor 123 Sty cries 61 Curling venue 52 Scraped (out) 117 Note acknowledging gear 124 Surgery sites, 63 Weight 53 Breaks in relationships a debt 93 A speakeasy’s is hidden for short 64 “On it, captain!”

55 Believe 118 “It’s finally clicked!”

94 Like some goodbyes 125 Ancient mystical letter 65 Bestseller 126 Most sensible

©2022 Universal Uclick

ACROSS 1 Midsize string instruments 7 Lengthy account 11 Cause of some trips 14 Come down with 19 Fluffy sweater material 20 Neeson of “Nell” 21 Draft pick?

22 Allergy season sound 23 *Aligns?

26 “I love you,” in Spanish 27 “In that case ...”

28 Features of distressed jeans 29 Homes that sound like the first sign in the zodiac 31 Big name in talks 32 Tube inserted into a blood vessel

By Luis Campos Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present.

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“FL FZTLR VEL BZRUPVRPHK VP FVE FJPD ZIE YZOJLU, JP JU DVEO PZ WJRO VTRLUPK WZE ZIEULHMLU.” TVEXVELP BDZ

“ULFW ORHW ZMDP XRT ZDAW. DPG GR LZ GWCSLZW ZMW VDIZ ZMDZ XRT RPKX HWDKKX KLAW DNRTZ CWFWP RTZ RV 500 SWRSKW.”

BTGG DSDZRJ

“FNWBW JBW IM TBWJF ZWMZCW XI FNXO UMBCK, MICV TBWJF YNJCCWITWO UNXYN MBKXIJBV ZWMZCW BXOW FM RWWF.”

JKR. UXCCXJR L. NJCOWV SB.

© 2022 NEA, Inc.

sudoku

Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.

©2022 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

391427-1

941.748.4679 | Venice

Puzzle Three Clue: Y equals C

941.355.8437 | Bradenton

Puzzle Two Clue: N equals B

Sarasota

Puzzle One Clue: Y equals B

394153-1

STOP BY ONE OF OUR SHOWROOMS TO SEE OUR COLLECTION OF PERGO® EXTREME™ LUXURY VINYL - WHERE TOUGH MEETS TASTEFUL

12-08-22

Made for where you live. Here!

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

RED PAGES AD RATES

RED PAGES redpages@yourobserver.com • yourobserver.com/redpages DEADLINES: Classifieds - Monday at 2PM Service Directory - Friday at 3PM • PAYMENT: Cash, Check or Credit Card The Longboat Observer reserves the right to classify and edit copy, or to reject or cancel an advertisement at any time. Corrections after first insertion only. *All ads are subject to the approval of the Publisher. *It is the responsibility of the party placing any ad for publication in the Longboat Observer to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance with towncodes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property.

Notice: All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

HOLIDAY ESTATE SALE 1815 Buccaneer Terrace Sarasota, FL 34231 December 9th , 10th & 11th 9 am to 5pm Numbers go out at 8am

The Observer Classified Dept. will CLOSE on December 23rd at 4:00pm for the Holidays.

We will reopen on January 3rd at 9:00am.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO YOU & YOURS!

stuff

Antiquesandchatchkes.com For More Information Call Ken at: 941-356-3318.

Merchandise Wanted SENIOR LOOKING to purchase precious metals, diamonds, time pieces, coins, jewelry, antique and estate jewelry, and some collectors plates. Personal and confidential.

Please call Marc: 941-321-0707

BUY STUFF HERE! YourObserver.com/RedPages

Garage/ Moving/ Estate Sales 6901 POINSETTIA AVE. North End of Longboat Key Saturday December 10 9 am- 5 pm Over 100 bird houses for sale, military and automobile collection. Large collection of items that have been collected over the last 50 years.

wagnerlbkrentals@gmail.com Visa/MC

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

5360 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Suite 101

This unit has it all!

Located near Siesta Key's Turtle Beach, this Somerset Cay 5th floor condo has spectacular Gulf and Bay views. Watch sunrises and sunsets from your balconies.

3BR/3BA, 2558 SqFt, partially furnished, oversized two car garage and boat dock with lifts.

Adult Care Services

Longboat Key, FL 34228 Rental office 9a.m. - 5p.m.

M-F Ask about our special rates!

Wagner Realty Since 1939

REDUCED PRICE $1,800,000

www.rentalsonlongboat.com

Murphy Stevens, Realtor 941-587-8879 Alan J Stevens, Broker 941-925-1818

LOVELY FURNISHED HOME for Rent annually on Longboat Key. 3BR/2BA, laminated floors in bedrooms, 2 car garage, heated pool, screened in lanai & boat dock.

Walk to the beach. No smoking or pets. Available Feb 1, 2023. $6,000/mo. Owner 941-504-1492

Homes for Sale 2BR/2BA WHITNEY BEACH, 1st Floor Condo for Sale.

North Longboat Key- Large living and bedrooms. Peaceful gardens on Bishops Bayou, boat docks, beach access across street, tennis courts, heated pools, 2 dogs allowed. $769,000. jm.higgins@mail.com

Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals BEACHPLACE AVAILABLE immediately. 3br/2ba oceanfront exquisite condo - 440-623-9068 LONGBOAT KEY: Beachfront Condos, 1st or 2nd floor, 2BR/2BA, W/D in units, free Wi-Fi, heated pool, & parking.

Call 941-383-3338.

EPIC HOME CARE Personal Care-Respite Care Alzheimer’s Care Light Cleaning Med Administration Meal Prep Shopping, Errands & More

SWEET DEALS HERE!

www.YourObserver.com/RedPages

Call for a FREE Evaluation!

941-536-6372 Epichomecareprovider@gmail Rosa Torres- Owner

Auto Transport SHIP YOUR car, truck or SUV anywhere in the United States.

Great rates, fast quotes. Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

Cleaning YOUR HOME DESERVES VIP TREATMENT Edla’s VIP Cleaning is a local cleaning company that has been in business for over 24 years.

We are very committed to quality housecleaning and highly recommended. 5 star reviews.

941-400-2866

Painting CARLO DATTILO Painting Licensed & insured. Interior/ Exterior painting including drywall repair and retexturing.

Wallpaper installation & removal, pressure washing. Residential & commercial, condos.

Honest & reliable.

Free estimates. 941-744-1020.

35+ years experience.

Adult Care Services

Want Some Mad Money?

ADULT CARE, Home Health care, transportation, errands, pet walking, holiday decorations.

Licensed and Insured. Call Isabel (386)214-8264

Sell Your Item for Free! $200 or less YourObserver.com/RedPages

Beauty

SELL YOUR CAR! FAST • EASY • SAFE

auto

EXPERIENCED DOG WALKER/PET SITTER Available anytime- short or long term. Call Lauren (631)953-7292

Reservations 941-383-5577

Auto Service

CHAIRS- BLACK soft cushion chairs, like new, for office, each $15 (941) 920-2494

Pets

Between Houses or Condos

TEETER INVERSION Table $180 and Skier's Edge $250. Excellent condition. (407) 758-9888

2 IKEA Poang armchairs + 1 footstool. Beige washable cover. Like new. $60. 941-758-7847

WOLF COUNTERTOP oven, brand new, retail 749. Sell $200.

416-564-7779

Beachfront, Bayfront and In

9122 Midnight Pass Road #54 Siesta Key, FL 34242

Sporting Goods

Items Under $200

FLUIDITY BARRE system (new) $100. HJC motorcycle helmet, $15. Tall mirror $10, antique table lamp, $15. (941)387-8001

ST ARMAND'S CIRCLE 5000 sq. ft. Corner with three faces, first floor 5000 square-foot roughly,192 chairs inside, 94 outside (around 1500 square-foot more outside) 362 parking spots close to the property, Direct deal with the owners. Contract Starting in January 2023. $37,000 (561) 931-9727

PLACE YOUR AD: Call: 941-955-4888 Email: RedPages@ YourObserver.com Online: YourObserver.com /RedPages

SEASONAL RATES

Homes for Rent

Commercial Property for Rent

Color background: $ 5 per week Ad border: as low as $3 per week

WE COME TO YOU

941.270.4400

Located in salons by jc 200 Central Ave. Suite 15, Sarasota

AMANDA

5-Star Rated

HoHoBuysCars.com

424.333.0713

rockstarmobilehair@gmail.com www.rockstarmobilehairsalon.com

Carpet Cleaning

Computer

Is Your Computer Feeling Sick?

Let Us Fix It!

Call A Geek

Autos for Sale 2016 TOYOTA Camry 20K miles, excellent condition, garaged LBK, one owner, Carfax available $22,975. (860) 836-7779

Use the RED PAGES to clean out your garage

CALL 941-955-4888

Mobile Concierge Services Available

We Are Thankful For Our Customers

Computer ServiCeS

CARPET, TILE, UPHOLSTERY CLEANING ODOR CONTROL • AREA RUG SPECIALIST

DRIES IN HOURS – NOT DAYS • SATISFACTION GUARANTEED

941-778-2882 • 941-387-0607 Serving AMI, LBK and Bradenton for 25 years Check out our 5 Star Reviews on Google

Like Us on Facebook

(941) 351-7260 call-a-geek.net

Computer Repair & Service Virus & Malware Removal / Protection New System Set Up / Data Transfer Networking: Wired/Wireless Installation Data Recovery / Remote Support One-On-One Tutoring / Training

393606

January 5 •East County & Longboat: Thursday, 12/22 noon •Sarasota /Siesta Key: Tuesday, 1/3 11am

WE BUY cars. top $$ paid for your vehicles.

Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

WEEKLY MONTHLY

392921

December 29 •East County & Longboat: Friday, 12/16 noon •Sarasota / Siesta Key: Monday, 12/19 noon

STORAGE FACILITY Boat/ RV/ Trailer. Secure facility, low monthly rentals, Clark Rd area.

941809-3660, 941-809-3662.

OPEN HOUSE Saturday, December 10 1 pm - 4 pm

393854

December 22 •East County & Longboat: Thursday, 12/15 noon •Sarasota / Siesta Key: Friday, 12/16 noon

Fine Jewelry, High-end Designer Accessories, Shoes and Clothes for Men & Women, Deuce 75 Pitching Machine Model DC799, Batting cage with artificial turf and a multitude of baseball equipment. Also lots of equipment for other sports like Golf, Bowling, High-End Fishing Equipment, Skateboarding, boating, Paintball Guns plus supplies, Basketball Hoop, Cricket equipment, name brand sporting apparel, athletic footwear and 4 Mountain Bikes with brand names like Schwinn Signed Sports Memorabilia with COAs, NFL Jerseys and other collectables, Exercise Equipment, weight benches, weights, Exercise bike, Treadmill and elliptical machine.

High-end Home Furnishings from Z Gallerie, Artwork, Furniture for the Dining room, Bedroom, Living room, Office, Outdoor Bar, High-End Outdoor Patio Furniture, Kitchen Items and Holiday Decorations.

Mechanic Tool Chest, Pressure washer, automotive tools, Air Compressor, Saws, Jacks, Lawn maintenance items, lots of other garage items and Aluminum Power Boat Lift.

Ping-pong table, Dartboard, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo systems, Foosball Table, Pool sticks and Balls.

CASH FOR YOUR CAR We come to you!

Ho Ho Buys cars.

941-270-4400.

Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals

393632

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING EARLY DEADLINE

Autos Wanted

real estate

HOLIDAY EARLY DEADLINES FOR DEC 22, 29 & JAN 5

Garage/ Moving/ Estate Sales

Condos/Apts. for Sale

15% DISCOUNT FOR 4-WEEK RUN

home services

INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888

First 15 words ................ $ 17.50 per week Each add’l word ..... 50¢

Over 18 yrs serving Manatee/Sarasota Counties

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

Health & Fitness

Roofing

FUNCTIONAL FITNESS TRAINING Helping seniors stay fit and independent since 2009 393461

Clinical Exercise Specialist · Private In-Home Services Brian M Simpson NASM, AMFPT, CPR, AED & First Aid Certified

941-626-3194

Licensed & Insured CCC - 058059 CBC - 1253936

Transportation

Get Virtual Health Insurance Quotes, Quickly and Direct To You!

ESTATE SALES • DOWNSIZING SENIOR TRANSITIONS • ONLINE AUCTIONS

BLACK LABEL CAR SERVICE

Individual/Family • Medicare • Group

Let Gulf Coast Estate Auctions organize & hold an estate sale for you.

Furniture Repair

Res./Com.

Form Serving Longboat Key Since 2005

393473

392936

Golf

MIC INSURANCE

CHASE COURNAN (941) 704 - 7512

GET YOUR LIFE BACK!

STANDARD WINDOWS

150

$

SPECIAL 00 5

$

senior citizen discount. www.sunsetwindowcleaningsrq.com

Purified water window cleaning available!!

Mike Mailliard ~ Lacey Weaver Allen Hovis ~ Marshall Bruce Matthew Mailliard ~ Julia McIlrevey Haley Jestings ~ Samantha Ryan Jaimie Simpkins

Health

25

UP TO

ows

INCLUDING SCREENS, TRACKS, MIRRORS & FANS

EXPERIENCE KNOWLEDGE SOLUTIONS

Our team of professionals provides superior service and expertise for all of your insurance needs.

392474

2007 Whitfield Park Ave. Sarasota, FL 34243 | cwccustomscarts@gmail.com

Lic./Ins.

& Pressure C Window lean t e s ing s a S u n n w r o i s n e k W Sun ind erly

Of course, you can call me anytime!

Golf Cart Repair Lithium Battery Conversion Lift Kits Blue Tooth Speakers General Repair

All Airports, Hourly & Tours www.blacklabelcarservice.com

Windows

TEXT 941-993-4137 EMAIL steve@setohealthgroup.com VISIT Setohealthgroup.com

FREE PICKUP / DELIVERY • FREE ONSITE QUOTES

941-248-4734

Booked Referral Program Next Ride with Booked Referral

Patio Furniture Repairs.com Furniture Sales & Repairs Cushions • Slings • Re-powdercoating

Luxury for Less

10% off

ü WIDE RANGE OF DEDUCTIBLES & COPAYS ü NATIONWIDE PPO NETWORKS ü 12, 24 OR 36 MONTHS POLICIES ü CUSTOMIZE YOUR AFFORDABLE QUOTES FROM:

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393464

393471

Too busy to chat?

Gulf Coast EstatE auCtions

Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES | 941- 284 - 5880

This week’s Crossword answers

Home • Condo • Auto • Umbrella • Boat • Flood

Do You Have Neck or Low Back Pain?

Do You Want To Avoid Surgery?

393463

Give Us a Call - We Can Help

595 Bay Isles Rd. Suite 215 941.554.8909 | www.micinsurancefl.com

FREE CONSULTATION 941.358.2224

Rest your mind & body. Connect with your spirit.

DR. DAVID CIFRA, DC

5610 Gulf of Mexico Dr Unit 2 Longboat Key, FL 34228 941-263-3948

©2022 Universal Uclick

Board Certified in the specialty of non-surgical spinal decompression

Midtown Medical Park 1215 S. East Ave. Suite 210 Sarasota, FL 34239

Chrissy Stites LMT, CMCE

Power Washing

393474

Painting

PRESSURE WASHING

House Washing, Roofs, Screen Cages, Pavers, Driveways and Walkways.

941-CLEAN IT 2 5 3 - 2 6 4 8 FREE INSTANT ESTIMATES when you Call RICK for SCHEDULING

$100 COUPON

Rescreening & Repairs

FULLY INSURED • OWNER OPERATED

393475

CALL OR TEXT 941-900-9398 TODAY! OWNER: DON HUBIAK

• Pool Cage Restoration • Rescreening Specialists • Specialty Screens • Paint • Doors and more!

Satisfaction guarantee Satisfaction Guarantee Pool cage Restoration/ Rescreening specialists Manufacture and Workmanship Warranties

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “We women are constantly at war with our bodies, it is hard to find amnesty for ourselves.”

Margaret Cho Puzzle Two Solution: “Give more than you take. And do it despite the fact that you only really like about seven out of 500 people.”

Judd Apatow Puzzle Three Solution: “There are no great people in this world, only great challenges which ordinary people rise to meet.”

Adm. William F. Halsey Jr.

This week’s Sudoku answers

392490

High-End Interior Painting Services

We only use the finest quality Benjamin Moore paints!

SOFT WASH

WE ARE THE SOFT WASH PRESSURE WASHING PROS

392302

SARASOTA INTERIOR PAINTING, LLC

$100 COUPON

$100 COUPON $100 COUPON

Find anything in the RED PAGES | 941-955-4888

$100 COUPON

$100 COUPON $100 COUPON

The Only Thing You Have To Lose ... Is The Pain!!

$100 COUPON $100 COUPON

$100 COUPON

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.com

You’re only cheating yourself.

MediCupping & Massage Therapy services for healing

941-345-5264

©2022 NEA, Inc.

Heart & Sole Healing Space, LLC

392914

Massage

Recognized Among the Best Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Physicians in America

peekers’ place

specialty screens / screw replacement / paint Doors and more!

Insurance

Manufacture and workmanship Warranties

SECUR-ALL INSURANCE AGENCY (941) 345-5264

Sandra Smith

| 941.383.3388

510 BAY ISLES ROAD, SUITE 1 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL (Next to SUNTRUST BANK)

CHUBB, AIG, UNIVERSAL, UNITED, SAFECO, PROGRESSIVE, VAULT, FLOOD, WE HAVE YOU COVERED!

393849

392593

• Aluminum, Vinyl, & Wood Soffit & Fascia Repair & Installation • Roofing Repair & Installation • Metal Roofing & Tile Roof Repair Specialists

Insurance

Estate Sales

941-504-0903

Building & Roofing Contractor

(614) 395-5854 · linkedin.com/in/brian-simpson-aba37093

“FIX IT - DON’T REPLACE” New Deluxe Rollers Will Make Your Doors Roll Better Than Ever Call Mark 928-2263 proslidingglassdoorrepair.com

Kenneth Fuhlman Inc.

392491

Sliding Glass Door Repair

15B

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

393850

Doors

|

16B

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2022

THE ACKERMAN GROUP 941.387.1820 TOP PRODUCING SMALL TEAM IN SARASOTA COUNTY RYAN ACKERMAN

ryan@ackermangroup.net

www.ackermansrq.com

BARBARA ACKERMAN

barbara@ackermangroup.net

NEW LISTING

FAIRWAY BAY 2

SIESTA COVE

$1,049,000

$4,250,000

2010 HARBOURSIDE DR., #2003 LONGBOAT KEY • 2BR/2.5BA Townhome • 1,590 SF • Attached private garage • Fireplace Beautiful Restoration hardware-style updates, 2-story residence with open Bay views. Includes private, gated beach on the Gulf of Mexico.

5212 SIESTA COVE DRIVE SARASOTA • 5,133 SF • 5BR|4 Full & 2 Half Bath • 1 & 1/2 Lots • Cul-de-sac Spacious, beautifully landscaped 2-story waterfront point property with a 120’ boat dock & 10,000 lb. lift. Exceptional open water views.

LIDO REGENCY

LA BELLASARA

464 GOLDEN GATE PT., #503 SARASOTA, FL $4,489,000 • 3BR/4.5 BA • 3,490 SF • 2-Car Garage Rarely available 5th floor residence offering expansive bay and city views, an open floor plan & full concierge services in a gated, pet-friendly community.

1700 BENJAMIN FRANKLIN DR. UNIT #5F, SARASOTA

$549,000 • 981 SF • 1BR/1.5BA • Bay and city skyline views Spacious beach-side getaway with open great room/dining room floor plan and a large master bedroom suite with full bath & walk-in closet.

UNDER CONTRACT IN 1 DAY

ORANGE CLUB

COREY’S LANDING

$1,088,000

$1,889,000

535 S. ORANGE AVENUE #304 SARASOTA • 1,559 SF • 4BR/2.5BA • 10 ft. Ceilings • Tranquil view Bright and spacious split floor plan, hurricane impact windows & sliders, wood floors, European-style kitchen in a highly sought-after downtown complex of just 24 units built in 2017.

3414 FAIR OAKS LANE LONGBOAT KEY • 3,729 SF • 4BR/4BA • 22 ft. Ceilings • Bay and Golf Course views Maintenance free 2-story home offering a main level master suite and summer kitchen located behind the gates of Bay Isles, includes private beach access on the Gulf of Mexico.

387701-1

595 BAY ISLES RD., SUITE 250 | LONGBOAT KEY, FL 34228 • 443 JOHN RINGLING BLVD., STE., F | SARASOTA, FL 34236