Longboat Observer 4.20.23

LONGBOAT

Observer

Alligator action.

PAGE 22

Longboat Key’s weekly newspaper since 1978

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

FREE • THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

VOLUME 45, NO. 37

YOUR TOWN

Islandwide transit on the way?

Longboat is driving toward expanded access to transportation services. PAGE 5

SMOOTH SAILING

File photo

A Longboat Key fire truck recently needed a lift into Sarasota.

Big, red and in need of a tow

The wind conditions were near perfect for Bird Key Yacht Club’s Sarasota Bay Cup Regatta. PAGE 14

It’s a little bit like seeing an injured linebacker limp off the field in between teammates, but that’s what a Longboat Key Fire Rescue Department truck looked like recently.

On Monday morning, you might have seen a Longboat fire truck being towed out of the department’s southern fire station at 2162 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

An issue with the truck’s coolant line led to the truck needing to be towed for maintenance and repair.

The issue with the truck started over the weekend, but the truck wasn’t able to be towed until Monday morning.

As of press time, repairs were waiting on parts, but fear not — the station has a reserve fire engine for just this occasion.

Sidra Wali

Quinessential and Orion race neck and neck during the Bird Key Yacht Club’s Sarasota Bay Cup Regatta on April 15.

Courtesy photo

Helga Verhaegh

Celebrating a major milestone Helga Verhaegh, of Longboat Key, recently celebrated her 80th birthday and received sincerest congratulations from her many friends.

Verhaegh is a longtime tennis player, hostess and all-around savvy lady. She was surprised by a catered luncheon buffet at the Promenade, where she has lived for 40-plus years.

Eight of Verhaegh’s many friends enjoyed morning tennis with her, and she was happily surprised after that by an array of catered delectables.

The group enjoyed toasts from each lady present, as well as mimosas and ample hearty laughter.

And, her friends note, Verhaegh has reached this milestone while continuing to play excellent tennis.

‘The road to get here’

A+E

Hidden treasures.

INSIDE

Lesley Dwyer

Ronna Romney with husband, Bruce Kulp

After years of being in the public eye, Ronna Romney enjoys the freedom and luxury of a low-key life on Longboat.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

Town departments, organizations meet Longboaters at open house The outdoor community market and open house at ­Longboat Key Bayfront Park hosted a dozen vendors.

SIDRA WALI STAFF WRITER

T

he town of Longboat Key held a community open house and mini market April 15 at Bayfront Park, located at 4052 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

There were eight nonprofit vendors available to answer any questions, as well as four outside vendors: Maine Line Food Truck, Coastal Creations Décor, Painting with a Fish and Spiked Pickles. In case you couldn’t be there, here are some of the things that were offered.

TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY

Trish Shinkle, town clerk, offered information about services such as notary assistance and handling business receipts.

Lisa Silvertooth, HR manager, recruits for all open positions for the town of Longboat Key. She explained there were plenty of employment and volunteer opportunities available.

Fire Chief Paul Dezzi provided information for the community about the Fall Prevention Program. It focuses on preventing slips and falls by following a checklist that includes tips such as adding nonslip backing to rugs and never using a chair as a step stool.

Brooke Green, a police service technician, provided information about how to deal with phone scams, identity theft and how to avoid fraud.

Susan Smith, finance director, offered information on various aspects of finance such as a guide to adopted budgets, code of ethics and

property tax.

Julie Anderson, office manager for Public Works, brought information about lesser-known parks in the area that community members might like to visit, e.g. Quick Point Nature Preserve and Joan M. Durante Park.

Allen Parsons, director of the Planning, Zoning and Building Department, explained the importance of the sea turtle protection ordinance, which will be active May 1 through Oct. 31.

Susan Phillips, assistant to the town manager, provided information about hurricane evacuation and the emergency notification system that alerts community members of any emergencies in the area. Members can sign up for the system on LongboatKey.org under the “Alert Longboat Key” tab.

LONGBOAT KEY GARDEN CLUB

Debra Sauers, garden club member, explained that the objectives of the club are to stimulate knowledge and love for gardening and preserve the natural beauty of Longboat Key. The Annual Arbor Day picnic will be held 11:30 a.m. on April 28 at the Bayfront Park pavilion. For more information, visit LBKGardenClub.org.

SARASOTA COUNTY LIBRARY

The county library promoted library and county services at the open house as well as informed the public about an upcoming event called “Bach to the Future” at the Selby Library, located at 1331 First St., at 2 p.m. April 29. An award-winning cellist, Steve Kramer, will be performing classical music.

LONGBOAT KEY BICYCLE ASSOCIATION

Emmanuel Charron, board member of Longboat Key Bicycle Club Association, answered questions about safe riding.

The association promoted not just safe riding but also raised awareness for drivers to be conscientious when bicyclists are present. The association noted some drivers veer into the bike lane, which is a safety hazard for those on bicycles.

Photos by Sidra Wali

Janelle Wagman, owner of Coastal Creations Décor, showed off her designs made of wood and resin.

LONGBOAT KEY ROTARY CLUB

The club shined a light on how it serves the community through various projects, such as the annual “Hot Diggity Dog” parade, Adopta-Highway cleanup, field trips and more. Josh the Otter was also present at the open house, spreading awareness about water safety. For more information, visit ­LongboatKey­Rotary.org.

PARADISE CENTER

The Paradise Center promoted activities that happen year-round that the community can enjoy, such as Nordic walk classes, pickleball, Zumba and more. Lahni Brenner, chief greeting officer, was also present to make sure community members were aware of what the center offered. For more information, visit TheParadiseCenter.org.

SARASOTA BAY ESTUARY PROGRAM

The program partners with local governments to address issues like red tide and promote the well-being of Sarasota Bay. The program has been protecting and restoring the

bay since 1989. Its goal is to improve water quality, increase wildlife habitat and enhance the natural resources of the area for use and enjoyment by the public. For more information, visit SarasotaBay.org.

LONGBOAT KEY TURTLE WATCH

The organization has 50 members that educate the community on sea turtle conservation. Members mark the nests as well as gather data after the eggs hatch. They do this through acquired permits. Members work to keep the beaches clean and dark to ensure sea turtles are not harmed.

At the community open house, they promoted their “Adopt-a-Nest” fundraiser where community members can adopt a nest. Anyone interested can visit LBKTurtleWatch.org.

LONGBOAT KEY LIBRARY

The library was handing out free books to those interested as well as providing information on how to become a member. The library itself runs on the power of volunteers; if people are interested in joining, they can visit LongboatLibrary.org.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

Lauren Tronstad

Trespassing on private property led to the placement of a sign near the Gulfside Road beach access.

Protecting beach access A sign was recently placed reminding pedestrians of private property near the Gulfside Road public beach access.

LAUREN TRONSTAD STAFF WRITER

B

each walkers are being asked to be cognizant of where they are walking at the Gulfside Road beach access via the placement of a sign that reminds pedestrians of private property and unsafe conditions along rock groins.

The placement of signs on property on Longboat Key has sparked conversation around pedestrian access to the 10-mile stretch of beach. Some residents have expressed frustration and concern that the sign is the first step toward a similar situation as is present at the Ohana property, at 6633 Gulf of Mexico Drive, which makes a section of the beach impassible by pedestrians.

“The regular beach walkers who were unhappy to lose the access previously afforded to them to traverse the Ohana seawall property are even more unhappy to see the town of Longboat Key join the movement to further impede beach access in the placement of this sign,” Commissioner Deborah Murphy wrote in an email to Town Manager Howard Tipton. “As beach erosion negatively impacts the recreational use of this public amenity, I believe the Town of Longboat Key should consider adopting proactive beach access policies which first seek to identify the feasibility of any access workarounds prior to installing restrictive signage.”

The main concern is that signs on the property could lead to a similar situation created by the Ohana seawall, which sparked the outrage of residents and frequent beach walkers.

The sign recently placed near the Gulfside Road beach access reads: Coastal erosion north of this access has temporarily made walking on some portions of the beach unsafe.

Areas landward of rocks and seawalls are private property and subject to trespassing enforcement.

According to town staff, the sign comes after a property owner near the public access frequently complained that beach walkers were trespassing on private property.

During a call with the property owner in question, Tipton said the owner had previously attempted using “no trespassing” signs with no success. The signs were either ignored or removed.

Since then, Tipton, Public Works staff and police have been to the property. A rock seawall is already present on the property and helps

File photos

Beach walkers are warned of biting dogs present at the Ohana property.

mark the property line. The average person may not understand its purpose. This is where the sign placement comes in.

“We felt we should at least let them know where the private property line is,” Tipton said. “We didn’t say ‘The beach is closed.’ We’re just trying to let people know you could be trespassing.”

As sand is added naturally or through beach nourishment projects, Tipton said the sign could be taken down. Much of the issue stems from a lack of sand seaward of the rock seawall for regular pedestrian use.

“Historically, the north end is very much a beach community,” former Commissioner Maureen Merrigan wrote in an email to Tipton. “Some sections of the beach erode faster than others. This often results, in any given year, in neighbors having to respectfully walk on the edge of another neighbor’s property to get from one section of the beach to another. For 40-plus years, this tradition of fully sharing the beach and allowing access for walking continued without complication or difficulty.”

The increase in security measures at the Ohana property changed that pattern, she wrote.

She also brought forth issues with the language of the sign and the lack of communication with the rest of the community about the decision to place the sign and the reason for it.

“Proactive communication allows time to explain rationale, provide input and work together,” Merrigan wrote. “Sometimes the best approach is neighbors talking to neighbors first.”

Areas around the Ohana property and near the Gulfside Road beach access, which is in the 6400 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive, are some of the areas on the island most prone to erosion, which has been attributed in part to the westward extension of the island and presence of scouring seawalls. Erosion fluctuates along the beaches seasonally as a natural

part of the wave action and storm impacts.

There is currently a plan to place a small amount of sand in the area in the next few years, but it’s not foreseen to make a long-term difference.

The next full nourishment is expected around 2028 or later.

Unfortunately, there is no easy way to tell where a property line is for Gulf-front homes. When in doubt, it is best to stay closer to the water.

“It’s unusual because most of the time property lines don’t go that far west,” Tipton said.

OHANA SEAWALL

The placement of the sign at the Gulfside Road public beach access led to concerns of a similar situation occurring at the area as is present at the Ohana property, where pedestrian access is restricted.

In January 2022, town commissioners reopened discussion with the Ohana property owners in hopes of reaching an agreement for public use of the beach on the property. After discussion with legal counsel, the property owners came forward with a temporary access agreement for about one-third of the total prop-

erty. Terms of the proposal included the town assuming liability for pedestrian access, assuming costs for maintaining sand on the leased portion of the property and paying an annual fee to the owners between $800,000 and $1.3 million.

The town’s counteroffer included a smaller portion of the property, a 10-foot pedestrian path, and an annual payment of $10,000.

The property owners were not satisfied with the offer and the town decided to cease negotiations.

The property’s seawall is a longstanding issue. In June 1999, commissioners had discussed purchasing the property to remove the seawall but ultimately decided not to move forward with the purchase.

In 2021, new signs were placed at the property to remind beachgoers of the private property and to warn them of the presence of “bad dogs” and video surveillance.

Historical aerial photos indicate that there has been a seawall in existence at the Ohana property since the 1950s. Since that time, the seawall has been repaired and replaced, and the structures have been rebuilt landward of the initial seawall.

The Ohana seawall makes pedestrian traffic along the entire beach impossible.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

File photo

Flooding on the island is expected to worsen in the future, especially in particularly vulnerable areas.

Longboat Key Town Commission sets its goals for the future Commissioners gathered for their annual strategic planning retreat Monday to discuss priorities

LAUREN TRONSTAD STAFF WRITER

T

he Longboat Key Town Commission has set its primary goals for the upcoming fiscal years.

Commissioners gathered for their annual strategic planning retreat Monday to discuss priorities and how to approach goals for the town in both the short and long terms.

The meeting allowed for commis-

sioners to discuss priorities prior to the upcoming budget process to ensure funds are allocated accordingly. A primary purpose of the meeting was to set initiatives in the strategic plan place mat.

“This is kind of what is on our plate, what we’re working on,” Town Manager Howard Tipton said.

The place mat is separated into five goals. Each has its own set of initiatives. Goals include community character, fiscal sustainability, environmental and resiliency, infrastructure and services.

The place mat was put together during a town staff leadership retreat before handing it over to the commission. It included goals for shortterm focus, specifically in fiscal years 2024 and 2025.

Nearly every goal had town commission top priorities labeled, in addition to ones identified by staff.

Under the community character goal, advancing the concept of a community center at the Town

Center Green and pursuing funding opportunities for plans in the Gulf of Mexico Complete Streets Corridor Plan were top priorities.

Top priorities under the fiscal sustainability goal include finalizing funding methodology for a townwide canal dredging program and continuing to seek grants to fund improvements suggested in the sea level rise study.

The town is looking into utilizing 3D modeling to measure the heights of infrastructure, using the information to help make decisions about sea level rise projects and to educate the public.

“When we looked at the sea level rise, so much of that is going to be private property owner initiative,” Tipton said, “being able to show them with the data that has been collected and what the forecast is (for sea level rise). We will be able to show them and zero in on their property so they can see what 2040 looks like or what 2070 looks like. That’s

going to be critical for them because that is what spurs that action.”

There were no top commission priorities identified in the environmental and resiliency goal category, but initiatives included New Pass groin tightening and identifying existing vehicles in the town’s fleet to be replaced by hybrid vehicles.

Under infrastructure, the primary goal is pursuing Florida Department of Transportation action to improve conditions of a multiuse trail along Gulf of Mexico Drive.

The final goal, services, included priorities such as working with Manatee County and the county’s school board on a north-end community center. Implementing a unified public transit system on the island is another priority in the services section.

Commissioners were given the opportunity to provide feedback on initiatives in the place mat and suggest the addition of initiatives.

Commissioner Penny Gold suggested adding an initiative that could encourage placement of electric vehicle charging stations across the island.

Commissioner Deborah Murphy suggested the town look into pervious parking lot materials when lots need repair or replacement. However, the issue arises with cost of work and materials as the entire lot would need to be removed to give the lot a new base for reaping the benefits of the different surface.

The town included plans to replace all street name signs throughout the town, which led to discussion about the inclusion of signs labeling the different blocks along roads.

“I would think that would be critical because when we gave up our own local 911 and went to Sarasota, the first question they always ask is ‘What block are you in?’” Commissioner BJ Bishop said. “If you’re a tourist or if you’re not paying attention, you’re hard pressed to know unless (a sign) is at each block.”

Long-term goals were also laid out through 2027. The majority of issues included ones that have long been on the town’s radar and will be for years to come. For example, the replacement of the town’s subaqueous force main running under Sarasota Bay is planned for construction in 2025 and beyond.

LONGBOAT

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

5

Town continues talks for islandwide transit system In the agreement, Sarasota County would provide services for the entire island with Manatee County reimbursing a portion of the costs.

LAUREN TRONSTAD STAFF WRITER

T

he town of Longboat Key is steps closer to implementing a townwide transit system for its residents, visitors and workforce.

It’s the intention of the town to enter into an agreement with Sarasota County for the service, but for the entire town to benefit, Sarasota County must enter into another agreement with Manatee County for the service of its residents.

Town Manager Howard Tipton said he has had multiple phone calls with both counties since he started his role at the end of January to discuss the potential for an agreement and what it would look like.

“The proposal was that Sarasota (County) would operate the islandwide system and then Manatee (County) would reimburse them for some amount of the activity,” he said.

The current predicament involves the notion that Manatee County would be expected to reimburse Sarasota County for services provided to its residents situated on the northern end of the key. Manatee County’s transit services are free to its residents, making reimbursement an uncomfortable thought.

“That is what they are trying to work through,” he said. “I am optimistic that they will be able to do that. It’s a big deal for folks who are working on the island especially to be able to get over here and get around once they’re on the island.”

The town is optimistic that some form of agreement will be reached and a transit system will be present on the island sooner rather than later. The hope for the system is to mirror that of an on-demand service already provided in both counties. A bus system wouldn’t fit the needs of the town or its layout.

Sarasota County has had its OnDemand service for use of Longboat Key residents residing on its side of the county line since mid-2021.

CURRENT OFFERINGS MANATEE COUNTY

The service is specifically designed for jurisdictions like Longboat Key and operates much like other ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft but at a much lower cost. A one-way trip with Sarasota County OnDemand is $2, but an Uber for the same distance can cost $10 or more, depending on demand and distance.

Manatee County started a similar service on the barrier island in December 2022, closing the gap of service that its residents felt from being unable to use the service provided to the other half of the island.

However, the issue remains that there is not a single service to serve everyone or one that could take a resident from one side of the island to the other.

“I think it would be a greater benefit to our workforce and to the tourists who are just looking to make short trips,” Tipton said. “It’s a great way to get (on the island) and back out.”

Starting the service would come at no cost to the town since it is already making regular contributions to both counties and, in turn, their transit systems.

There is no set timeline for when an islandwide service would be implemented.

The onus is largely with the counties to progress and reach an agreement. The town intends to continue with regular calls with representatives from each county for updates on progress.

n Trip reservations are required.

For advance trip reservations, requests need to be made by 5 p.m. the day before the desired pickup service. n Services are free. n Shuttles run 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Friday. n To make reservations, call 941748-2317.

SARASOTA COUNTY

n To book a trip with the OnDemand service, riders can download the Sarasota County OnDemand mobile app to create an account to be used for future trips or by calling 941-300-1553. n A one-way trip costs $2. n The service runs 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Monday through Saturday and 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays.

Lauren Tronstad

Sarasota County’s OnDemand service could cover all of Longboat Key under an agreement with Manatee County.

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

Reminders before heading to the beach

NATURE TALKS AND WALKS FOR EARTH DAY

Beach condition warning flags fly under the American flag at Longboat Key fire stations.

S A T U R D A Y , A P R I L 2 2 , 1 1 A . M . – 3 P. M . a t L O N G B O AT I S L A N D C H A P E L 6200 GULF OF MEXICO DR., L O N G B O AT K E Y

LAUREN TRONSTAD STAFF WRITER

T

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Lauren Tronstad

Beach condition flags fly underneath the American flag at both Longboat Key fire stations.

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Tim Thurman, Longboat Key Turtle Watch • Eco-restoration & preservation at Robinson Preserve - Shaun Swartz, Manatee Co. Gov.; Coral Reef Restoration - Jason Stock, Full Send Reef Habitat Inc. • Longboat Key Coastal community planning and management: role of ordinances & code enforcement - Officer Chris Kopp; Longboat Key Emergency Response Asst. Fire Chief Michael Regnier • Outreach programs/ resources; Question & Answer Session

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Forbes’ Best-in-State Wealth Advisors, April 7, 2022, based on the 12-month period ending June 30 of the year prior to publication. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research, LLC and selected from a pool of nominations as indicated in the methodology. Neither SHOOK Research nor Forbes receive compensation from the advisors or their firms in exchange for placement on a ranking. The rankings may not be representative of any one client’s experience and are not indicative of the financial advisor’s future performance. Investment performance is not a criterion for selection. Forbes is a registered trademark of Forbes, Inc. All rights reserved.

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For more information on the selection methodology, see www.stifel.info/award-disclosures.

Neither Stifel nor its financial advisors provide legal or tax advice. Please consult your legal or tax professional if expert assistance is required.

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• Introduction - Dr. Jeffrey Driver, USF College of Public Health, Rotary Club of Longboat Key & Panel Organizer/ Facilitator • Sarasota Bay water quality - Dr. Dave Tomasko, Sarasota Bay Estuary Program; Rusty Chinnis, Sarasota Bay Watch & Suncoast Waterkeeper & John Ryan, Sarasota Co. Gov. (retired) • Mote Marine Laboratory‘s research of chemical & physical ecology & ocean acidification - Dr. Emily Hall • Wildlife conservation CEO Aaron Virgin, Save Our Sea birds & President

he Longboat Key Fire Department wants to remind residents and summer visitors of ways to check beach conditions before visiting the island or while driving on Gulf of Mexico Drive.

Because the town does not employ lifeguards or have the traditional stands in which to hang water condition flags, it is imperative that residents are aware of how to check conditions before they enter the waters.

While the location of the flags is not new, department personnel want to remind visitors and residents of the location ahead of an increase in summer beach-going crowds.

“With summer coming up, we get a little bit more visitation to the beach,” said Tina Adams, public information officer for the department. “We want to remind everybody out here, visitors and residents, that we don’t have lifeguards on our beaches. We do rely upon the public themselves to make sure they understand the type of waters they are getting into.”

Flags of different colors fly outside each fire station on the island under the American flag to notify passersby of current beach conditions. The stations are located at 5490 Gulf of Mexico Drive and 2162 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

Each flag color corresponds to a level of hazard: n Green: Low hazard, calm conditions n Yellow: Medium hazard, light surf and/or rip currents n Purple: Marine pest (jellyfish, stingrays and other dangerous fish) n Red: High hazard, rough conditions such as strong surf and/or cur-

rents n Double red: Water closed to public use.

A hurricane or high bacteria levels from red tide would warrant this flag placement. Department personnel receive notification of conditions each day from Mote Marine Aquarium and Laboratory and place the flag associated with those reports.

If you want to check conditions before leaving your home, Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium has a beach conditions reporting system on its website, Mote.org, that is updated regularly from beach ambassador and community reports.

The system shows conditions for 12 of the state’s west coast counties, including Sarasota and Manatee counties.

When in doubt, Adams said the department welcomes phone calls for any questions about beach conditions and whether it is safe to swim.

Ensuring knowledge of rip currents and how to get out of one is another crucial bit of information the department wants to ensure is shared. On Longboat Key, a particularly dangerous place for rip currents is by New Pass Bridge.

Adams urges anyone that gets stuck in that situation to remember not to fight against the current, but rather swim out with the current then to shore. If you are unable to escape, call or wave for help while floating or treading water.

“We’re hoping to provide information and a reminder to the public that we don’t have lifeguards, so please be cautious of the waterways,” she said.

The department’s firefighters are also trained as paramedics and will respond to emergency alerts, but it is still important to know what hazards you might be facing to keep yourself, family and friends safe.

Forbes’ 2022 Best-in-State Wealth Advisor

EXHIBITORS & BAY WALKS

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

7

Your Friends Are Waiting When was the last time you swung a racket or hit a golf ball, biked the trail or simply took a long walk with your favorite person to talk to?

Joint pain can creep up on us, faster than we’d expect, robbing us of the activities and experiences we used to treasure. Shoulders get stiff. Hips hurt. Knees creak and the back aches.

Before you know it, you’re spending more time watching Friends than seeing your own.

At Sarasota Memorial, our award-winning team of orthopedic specialists and surgeons is nationally recognized for excellence in joint repair and joint replacement, using the latest robotic and minimally invasive techniques to rebuild and restore, so you can get back to the things you love and the people you love sharing them with.

So don’t wait. Life’s too short to spend it on the sidelines.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

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 Wingert, KWingert@YourObserver.com

Read print, digitally!

EMILY WALSH

R

ecently, I moved from Longboat Key, my home for the past 12 years, to mainland Sarasota. (Longboaters, we still have our eyes on you.

My parents and Observer Media Group founders Matt and Lisa Walsh are still residents on Longboat Key, and my son, Rhys Parry, and I will be marching in the annual Fourth of July Freedom Fest parade — one of my favorite events of the year.) When moving, you unearth a lot of stuff. All of you snowbirds and new transplants are surely familiar with this phenomenon.

While trying to pare down items, I took a trip down memory lane going through boxes of keepsakes from my childhood. In one of those boxes, I found my first-place plaque from the Pinellas County Science Fair.

In sixth grade, at Southside Fundamental Middle School in St. Petersburg, I won first place for my project that was based on whether oil-based or soy-based newspaper ink was better for the environment.

Conclusion: Soy-based ink was better because it was more soluble.

The methodology used to come to this conclusion included interviews with the pressmen at the then St. Petersburg Times (now Tampa Bay Times) and a series of experiments based on the ink left on your fingers after reading a newspaper.

At the time, the Tampa Tribune was still using oil-based ink, while the St. Petersburg Times had recently switched to soy-based ink.

My experiments thumbing through both newspapers and swiping fingers on cotton swabs concluded that the soy-based ink used by the St. Petersburg Times left less residue on your fingertips.

Those experiments also resulted in the first time I used a curse word in front of my mother, but that is a whopper of a story for another time.

Years later, ink-stained fingertips switched from an experiment to more of a nuisance during my first official job at the Longboat Observer. I was one of the office janitors, earning my weekly allowance. Every week, there were black ink fingerprints all over the door knobs and walls. Still to this day, at our current headquarters on the east end of Main Street in downtown Sarasota, you can find me cleaning ink-fingerprints off our doors with a trusty bottle of Windex from time to time.

So, much to my delight, and never in that 12-year-old’s wildest dreams, I’m happy to introduce a way to read our printed papers each week without getting ink on your fingers.

Welcome to your new e-Newspaper app — Your Observer.

The Your Observer e-Newspaper app is available in both the Apple App store and Google Play, free to download. Now our hyperlocal news and information is available to you, at your fingertips, anywhere in the world in an easy-to-use digital format on your desktop, tablet or mobile phone.

Each week, the printed version of our papers will be available to you in a new way. Flip through the pages on your favorite device like you would the printed pages. Pinch and grab the pages to zoom in and out.

Tap on headlines to view a mobile-friendly reading experience and jump to pages with a tap of the finger. Tap a photo to scroll through an entire picture gallery or view a video.

While you’re driving your morning or evening commute from work, you can have an article read to you.

Share articles easily and have them translated into 25 different languages.

Interested in a service or product advertised by one of our partners?

Tap on the phone number and call directly from the app or be linked to their website. Download the digital edition and save articles to read offline. Print articles and crossword puzzles anytime.

People may say that print is dead or antiquated. Let us be clear: Print is not going away. The e-Newspaper app is a new way to read print, digitally. It’s also one of the ways we are staying true to our vision: innovate and elevate.

Ever since the rise of the internet in the late ’90s, the print media businesses have been constantly innovating with their online offerings and revolutionizing their busi-

ness models. This new e-Newspaper app is the latest iteration.

To ensure our news and information is up-to-date and provided to you in every way you consume news, we utilize more than 30 different vendors and software providers, giving us the technology to print our papers and provide news online 24 hours, seven days a week.

In fact, our IT partner, Thrive, has told us that we are one of their most complicated clients with the number of different systems we utilize to get news and information out to you every day.

So while we may be complicated internally, we want to offer you the easiest way to access our news with our new e-Newspaper app.

Our app is free to download, and for the first month we’re offering access for only 99 cents. After that, you can subscribe to our app for $5 per month, or $50 per year.

Meantime, our printed editions will remain free via home and commercial delivery, and our content on YourObserver.com will remain free.

If you opt for the Your Observer e-Newspaper app, you should consider going one step further and becoming an Observer Newsie.

That’s our membership program, which has grown to nearly 500 members.

For an annual membership of $65, Newsies receive access to the Your Observer e-Newspaper app and invitations to members-only events. In fact, on Thursday, April 20, our Newsies will participate in a “Wine Walk” at The Bay with AG Lafley, former CEO of Procter & Gamble and outgoing CEO of The Bay Conservancy.

This has been a long journey — going from ink-stained fingers to creating our digital editions that will read our stories to you or translate them into multiple languages.

While I will always have ink in my blood, I am excited that with our new Your Observer e-Newspaper app, there won’t be as much of it on my fingers. I hope you download it and give it a try. I’d love to hear what you think.

Emily Walsh is president of the Observer Media Group Inc. She can be reached at EWalsh@­ YourObserver.com.

SIGN UP TODAY! STEP 1 Visit YourObserver.com STEP 2 Click “Subscribe” in the top menu bar STEP 3 Select “Newsie Membership” or “e-Newspaper Access” STEP 4 Create account STEP 5 Click “Back to content” STEP 6 Download the Your Observer e-Newspaper app on Google Play or the Apple App Store STEP 7 Sign in using the same email and password you used to create the Your Observer account.

HAPPY READING!

Managing Editor / James Peter, JPeter@YourObserver.com Staff Writers / 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 A+E Editor / Monica Roman Gagnier, MGagnier@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; 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 B. Jolly, EJolly@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

Observer Media Group Inc. is locally owned.

Publisher of the Longboat Observer, East County Observer, Sarasota/Siesta Key Observer, Palm Coast Observer, Ormond Beach Observer, West Orange Times & Observer, Southwest Orange Observer, Business Observer, Jacksonville Daily Record, LWR Life Magazine, Baldwin Park Living Magazine and Season Magazine

CEO / Matt Walsh President / Emily Walsh Vice President / Lisa Walsh Chairman Emeritus / David Beliles 1970 Main St. Sarasota, FL 34236 941-366-3468

YourObserver.com © 2020 The Observer Media Group Inc. All Rights Reserved

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

Support Our Schools supports the separation of church and state and questions the school board’s efforts to adopt Hillsdale dogma.

LISA SCHURR CO-FOUNDER AND CEO SUPPORT OUR SCHOOLS

S

upport Our Schools was founded with the mission of educating the public about the risks facing our system of public education and providing a platform for advocacy to protect and strengthen public education for all children. Integral to this mission is: n Defending our teachers and administrators from ideological pressure and political attacks n Preserving a modern, scientific and fact-based standard for the educational curriculum n Maintaining programs and policies that promote understanding and cooperation as well as the health and well-being of all students.

Support Our Schools members are Christians, Jews, Muslims and Buddhists. Some of us practice no formal religion. Some of us are atheists. We decry attacks on any person because of the religion he or she practices or the choice not to practice a religion or belief system.

Support Our Schools strongly believes in the separation of church and state, a principle enshrined in the Constitution and embedded in the policies and practices of public schools and governmental institutions for hundreds of years. No religion should be elevated and promoted

within the classrooms of our public schools, and no religion should be discriminated against. Religion should not be in our public schools.

The last few years have seen the rise of a concerted and aggressive national effort by right-wing think tanks and other organizations to alter the direction of public schools. The blueprint for achieving this goal, created by Hillsdale College, is a comprehensive K-12 curriculum that emphasizes a narrower, much more conservative worldview usually found in private Christian and “classical” schools. Support Our Schools strongly believes that our public schools are not the place for a regime of religious-nationalist indoctrination.

There appear to be distinct efforts underway to undermine public schools across the country. Public schools, as opposed to private schools, are obligated to educate all children, regardless of socioeconomic background, religious affiliations or sexual orientation. Private schools may pick and choose which students they wish to educate with no governmental oversight or accountability.

These efforts appear intended to do more than reshape and eliminate certain course work and topics from academia. We are particularly concerned to see efforts by the Sarasota County School Board to bring changes to public school curricula that rely on the religious dogma espoused

by Hillsdale College.

Of particular concern is the current attempt by the chair of the Sarasota County School Board, Bridget Ziegler, to enter a contract with a months-old company, Vermilion Education, which was

Courtesy photo

founded by a young man, Jordan Adams, with no experience in teaching in public education.

Ms. Ziegler and the board sought no other bids. She apparently decided that Vermilion was qualified to do the job, even though Mr. Adams’ sole experience is five years teaching in Hillsdale charter schools and a private religious school.

He also has worked on developing the Hillsdale K-12 curriculum and was involved in the review of math books for the state of Florida (looking for the dreaded CRT) and the Hillsdale 1776 curriculum.

We are concerned that the board is entering into a contract at a cost of $28,000 with a company/individual who is woefully unqualified. We believe this is fiscally and legally irresponsible.

At a Florida Department of Education-sponsored training session on the recently revised Florida civics curriculum developed under Hillsdale College’s leadership, much of the material presented through slides was infused with Christian and conservative ideology. One slide

stated that America’s “founders expected religion to be promoted because they believed it to be essential to civic virtue,” while an accompanying slide stated that “without virtue” (i.e., religion) citizens would become “licentious” and “subject to tyranny.”

Another slide stated it was a misconception that the “founders desired strict separation of church and state.” A slide quoted New England colonist Jonathan Edwards saying, “Political prosperity requires the general practice of a strict morality … as by a belief of Christianity.”

In the new Florida civics curriculum and in the Hillsdale College K-12 1776 Curriculum, one side of an argument is often presented, and historical figures are frequently cherry-picked to support the Hillsdale College narrative. Its view teaches that Christianity is and should be the dominant religion in our national life and that it should have a more prominent role in public schools.

It is clear to us there is a coordinated strategy by Gov. DeSantis and the GOP-controlled Legislature to defund public school

districts by offering universal voucher programs that siphon money into private schools, some of which teach a noninclusive Christian nationalist worldview.

We are also concerned that the majority of our current Sarasota County School Board is taking direction directly from the governor rather than the stakeholders of our school district.

For the record, Support Our Schools believes that all parents should have the right to send their children to private Christian schools or “classical” academies if they wish. However, this should not be at the expense of the health and stability of our public education system.

If this plan succeeds, we believe it will hollow out our public schools to the detriment of the economy, our democracy and the overall well-being of the Sarasota community.

Any attempt by right-wing groups to label Support Our Schools as anti-Christian is completely unfounded. It is a cynical attempt to create divisions and stir up anger. Many Sarasota Christians standing with Support Our Schools have a strong faith in God. They strongly believe in Jesus Christ’s principle teachings of love thy neighbor, humility, charity, forgiveness, service to others and empathy. These principles are not the exclusive province of Christians. These qualities are needed now more than ever to push back against the surge in hate and intolerance directed toward some Sarasota educators, students and their families.

Support our Schools and many Sarasota parents prefer that divisive culture war issues stay out of the classroom. Most parents just want a positive, safe and supportive learning environment for their children.

We ask that politicians keep their personal religious views separate from educational policy decisions in our public schools.

MY VIEW

Hillsdale dogma should not dominate schools

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COPS CORNER

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

FRIDAY, APRIL 7

A CLOSE CALL 12:11 a.m., 2900 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Suspicious incident: After dinner in Sarasota, a resident was alarmed when his daughter said her phone had linked up to an AirTag. The AirTag’s GPS showed the route taken from dinner back to the house. He told officers he was scared for his safety as he did not know who put the tag in his vehicle and they now knew the address. While speaking with the officer, the man’s daughter told him it was her sister’s boyfriend who left the tag in the vehicle.

SATURDAY, APRIL 8

A POWERFUL SPRINKLER SYSTEM 6:57 a.m., 5100 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Citizen assist: An officer was dispatched for a call of a water line spraying water about eight feet into the air. However, no police services were needed after the property owner said the spraying water was likely the sprinkler system.

HELP NEEDED 5:25 p.m., Longboat Pass Boat-miscellaneous: While on marine patrol, an officer was flagged down by a boater having engine problems. The operator had thrown an anchor down, but was not sure it was holding well. The officer waited with the boat until the rental company arrived on the scene and towed the boat away.

JUST IN CASE 9:05 p.m., 5300 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Property damage, not vandalism: When parking his vehicle, a resident’s front bumper got caught on a cement parking block at Centre Shops. The individual was able to push the bumper back into place on his own but wanted to file a report with the police in case he decided to file a damage claim with insurance later.

UNMANNED SINKING SHIP 10:22 a.m., 800 block of Broadway Street Boat-miscellaneous: Police were called to report a sinking vessel in the area. The caller said the sailboat was on its side and was possibly taking on water. Upon arrival, the officer identified the vessel as a previously stamped derelict boat. Manatee County Sheriff’s Marine Patrol was made aware of the issue.

SUNDAY, APRIL 9

EARLY ARRIVAL 10:46 a.m., 5200 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Citizen assist: Officers were called for a potential burglary. The caretaker of the property, who made the call, said when checking on the property he found clothes and food inside. The owner had been contacted and was unaware of anyone planning to stay at the residence. No one was inside the residence. The owner was contacted again and apologized for the issue, but her daughter-in-law and some friends had arrived earlier than expected.

LOST AND FOUND 8:11 a.m., 7100 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Found property: An officer was sent to the address on a report of found property. The resident said he had found a wallet on the sidewalk of the bridge with a driver’s license, cards and cash inside. The officer was able to contact the wallet’s owner to come to the police station to pick up the property.

MONDAY, APRIL 10

NEIGHBORLY HELP 4:58 a.m., 600 block of Norton Street Citizen assist: A neighbor called police on behalf of the homeowner in reference to a broken backflow preventer. Public Works was contacted about the issue and staff members informed the officer they were on the way. The officer called the homeowner to let them know Public Works was on its way to the residence. The officer had previously been informed the owner might not be able to answer the door because of medical issues.

BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY 11:32 p.m., 6100 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Suspicious incident: A loud bang in a resident’s garage prompted a call for police to check out the area. Upon arrival, officers canvassed the area, but found nothing out of the ordinary. They deduced the strong winds could have slammed a door, causing the noise.

THURSDAY, APRIL 13

TOO FAST 12:27 p.m., 5700 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Suspicious person: Officers received a call via dispatch reporting a bike driving fast down a sidewalk.

When the officer arrived in the area, the biker was gone and could not be located.

MONDAY, APRIL 10

NOT POLICE BUSINESS 5:15 p.m., 3200 block of Bayou Way Citizen assist: A resident called police to report water was not coming out of their faucet. Upon arrival, the officer told the homeowner to contact a plumber.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 12

NO ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 4:08 p.m., 1000 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Found property: While conducting traffic enforcement, an individual approached the officer, handed him a set of keys and left. The person did not provide any additional information. The officer submitted the keys into evidence.

FURTHER DOWN THE STREET 7:26 p.m., 500 block of Bay Isles Parkway Citizen assist: Police were called to respond to a car hauler illegally parked on the roadway. The officer informed the driver that he was allowed to load and unload on the road, but in the future to park another block down the road to prevent traffic issues. The driver apologized and said he would finish up quickly and be on his way.

FRIDAY, APRIL 14

UNWELCOME SURPRISE 11:13 p.m., 500 block of Outrigger Lane Citizen assist: An officer was dispatched back to police headquarters for a walk-in complaint.

The individual said he had a female staying at his residence and that he himself had been a resident for nine months. He recently found out the female was married and wanted her removed from his residence.

The officer informed the man he would have to pursue civil action to evict her and directed him to the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

Sarasota EDC works to relocate 70 companies to the area As recession worries continue to percolate, the Sarasota area shines brighter.

MARK GORDON BUSINESS OBSERVER

A

global economist for a prominent independent investment research firm based in Sarasota County said there’s a 60% chance the U.S. will be in a recession by summer or fall 2023.

That technically would be the second recession in fewer than two years, given GDP in the U.S. fell 1.6% in the first quarter of 2022 and 0.9% in the second quarter. Most economists and government officials have traditionally defined a recession as two straight quarters of negative GDP. Recession semantics aside, there are several reasons to be optimistic, said Economic Development Corp. of Sarasota County President and CEO Lisa Krouse, at least about the local outlook. One of the biggest reasons for optimism? Krouse said the EDC is currently working with 70 businesses nationwide seeking to relocate to Sarasota County. With a business-friendly climate, no state income tax, the beaches and more, Krouse added, “there isn’t a whole lot of convincing we have to do.”

Krouse and Alejandra Grindal, chief economist at Nokomis-based Ned Davis Research, were speakers at a recent event in Sarasota hosted by the Tampa Bay Chapter of the Association for Corporate Growth. The event, held April 12 at the Field Club, was entitled “Exploring the Macro and Micro Economic Environment.”

Recession questions — are we in one or not, and if yes, where and for how long? — continue to linger in the business community and beyond, acknowledged Grindal, a member of the National Association for Business Economics. She cited the April Small Business Optimism Index report and survey from the National Federation of Independent Business to highlight business owners’ anxieties.

The report, said NFIB officials, “underscores the financial toll inflation and a difficult labor market” are having on small businesses.

Overall, NFIB’s national Small Business Optimism Index decreased 0.8 points in March to 90.1. That marks the 15th consecutive month below the 49-year average of 98, the organization said. Nearly a quarter, 24%, of business owners report inflation as their single most important busi-

TAKE A HIKE

File photos

Economic Development Corp. of Sarasota County President and CEO Lisa Krouse says the Sarasota County business community has a lot of reasons to be optimistic, despite national recession worries.

ness problem, down four points from last month. Small-business owners expecting better business conditions over the next six months, the report found, remain at a net negative 47%.

“It’s hard for small-business owners to stay positive when they’re dealing with so many economic challenges,” NFIB Florida Director Bill Herrle said in the report.

“They’re doing everything they can to weather this economic storm and emerge stronger on the other side, but it isn’t easy.”

Taking the conversation global, Grindal, at the ACG event, said “there are actually parts of the world that are doing better than the U.S., and a lot of that has to do with China.”

Grindal said China, after ending its zero-COVID policy in December, is poised to grow its economy by 5% this year, coming off 3% growth in 2022. Some European countries, she adds, are also growing post-COVID. Back in the States, recession fears have been goosed not only by inflation but with recent bank struggles.

While Grindal said a full-blown banking crisis was averted after the recent collapse of Silicon Valley Bank, the deposit situation it created can be troublesome. That ­situation?

With the issues at SVB and New York City-based Signature Bank,

Alejandra Grindal

many people have been looking to move deposits out of banks and into money market funds. When banks have fewer deposits with which to generate loans and profits, Grindal said, that can lead to tighter lending protocols. “And when that happens,” she said, “you get a recession.”

In contrast to national worries, Sarasota County, said Krouse, is set to continue being a statewide, and even national leader, in economic growth. Krouse said North Port, in south Sarasota County, is “growing like gangbusters,” with several new projects, and Venice is also growing rapidly. That area includes Wellen Park, a master-planned community that’s been adding retail and commercial projects to complement an increase in new homes.

Other wins in Sarasota, Krouse

said, include online video platform Rumble recently opening its headquarters on Longboat Key, with plans to add 140 employees; a $200 million downtown Sarasota bayfront park dubbed The Bay; a $92 million expansion project at Selby Gardens; the $800 million Residences at St. Regis project on Longboat Key; and forthcoming demolition of the Hyatt Regency in downtown Sarasota to make room for a Hyatt-branded Thompson Hotel.

“Is there any part of Sarasota County that will look the same 10 years from today? I say no,” Krouse said. “We are witnessing a really big transformation in this county.”

Krouse, a current board member and former longtime human resources and legal executive at Lakewood Ranch-based FCCI Insurance Group, points out that while there is optimism, there are also challenges. Many business owners the EDC hears from, she said, worry specifically about workforce housing and talent availability for growing business — challenges seen in many other parts of the region.

“There are conflicts that come up a lot,” she said.

Ned Davis Research Chief Economist Alejandra Grindal predicts the Federal Reserve will raise interest rates one more time, in May, in an ongoing effort to bring inflation down from around 5% to its goal of 2%. A rate hike could exacerbate other ongoing issues, but the Fed, she predicts, will persist with its inflation reduction goals on the idea that “short-term pain now will avoid more long-term inflation.” As of April 12, the current target range was 4.75% to 5%.

All are welcome at All Angels no exceptions • In-person worship services Sunday at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m.

Saturday Contemporary Style Worship | 5pm

• Live-stream at AllAngelsLBK.org to participate on-line • Discussion Groups on Tue & Wed at 10 a.m.

Sunday Worship | 9am & 11am

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

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,

Worship WorshipWith WithUs UsAt atOur OurChurch Church Sunday Service 10:00 AM Sunday Service 10:00 AM The Rev. The Rev.Dr. Dr.Norman NormanPritchard Pritchard

Catholic Church

Would like to Welcome & Invite You, Your Family Members & Friends to Celebrate Mass with Our Parish Community WINTER MASS SCHEDULE (January - April) Saturday: 4:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM, 9:30 AM, and 11:00 AM Daily Mass at 9:00 AM; Rosary at 8:30 AM Monday - Friday 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive The Chaplet of Divine Mercy following Daily Mass

Men’s Bible Study: Monday @ 9:00 Masks AreWednesday Optional @ 10:00 Women’s Bible Study:

Visitors Welcome Visitors & & Residents Residents Welcome

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

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 Wednesday Bible Study 10:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.

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

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Watch AMService ServiceLive: Live: WatchOur Our10:00 10:00 AM

www.bit.ly/cclbksermons www.bit.ly/cclbksermons oror (followYouTube YouTubelink) link) www.christchurchof lbk.org(follow www.christchurchoflbk.org

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All Are Welcome

Longboat Key, FL 34228 (941)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 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

941-383-3428

longboatkeytemple.org

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Growing in Jesus’ Name

Sunday Fellowship Hour | 10am

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

13

On Coveted Lido Key REDEFINING THE SARASOTA LIFESTYLE.

R E SI DE NCE SL I DOK EY.COM

ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. This project has been filed in the state of Florida and no other state. This is not an offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy the condominium units in states where such offer or solicitation cannot be made. Equal Housing Opportunity. Rosewood Residences Lido Key is owned and being developed, offered and sold by WSR—Lido Beach, LLC (“Developer”). The project is not owned, developed or sold by Rosewood Hotels and Resorts, L.L.C. or any of its affiliates (“Rosewood”). Developer uses the Rosewood marks pursuant to a license agreement with Rosewood, which may be terminated under certain conditions. Rosewood does not assume any responsibility or liability in connection with the condominium. Copyright 2023 © All Rights Reserved.

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Now Accepting Contracts • From the $6 Millions • 941-888-3131

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APRIL 20, 2023

YOUR NEIGHBORS BIRD KEY YACHT CLUB SARASOTA BAY CUP WINNERS SARASOTA BAY CUP WINNER n Doug Fisher (PHRF Multihull) PRICE CUP WINNER n Marvin Quin (Quinessential)

Photos by Sidra Wali

Skipper Joe McClash and his crew on the Wind Caller.

SIDRA WALI STAFF WRITER

here’s an old saying about sailing, “A sailor is an artist whose medium is the wind.”

The wind conditions were near perfect Saturday on Sarasota Bay. The sky was the exact shade of blue one would expect on a sunny day. The gentle lapping of the waves against the boats’ hulls created a sense of calm before the Bird Key Yacht Club’s Sarasota Bay Cup Regatta took place at 1 p.m.

The event was organized by Michael Landis and Marvin Quin, co-chairs of the Sarasota Bay Cup Regatta, with help from volunteers, members, staff and captains.

At 1 p.m., the sound of the horn signaled the start of the race, and the sailors were off.

There were 67 boats on the water

The Sarasota Bay Cup Regatta was hosted by Bird Key Yacht Club on April 15.

competing in the regatta in two categories: performance handicap racing fleet and one-designs.

“The larger (PHRF) boats can vary in size and are handicapped based on technical criteria,” said Landis, who was also competing in the race with his PHRF cruiser, Eventide.

Quin competed on his PHRF cruiser, Quinessential.

“The PHRF boats had a pursuit start, where corrections are given at the start of the race instead of after the finish. That means the slower boats started first,” said Landis.

This allows the fleet to finish in place-order around the same time.

One-design boats had their own course, racing in a sequence in the southwest area of the bay so there was no concern of larger boats and one-designs colliding.

Landis explained that the bay is wonderful for smaller-design racing.

The colorful array of boats and their crew members became one as they glided across the water. The day’s wind became their partner.

With each tack and jibe, the participants in the race used their skill and knowledge to become attuned to the wind and the waves.

“It comes down to skill with everyone involved,” said Landis.

As the race progressed, the sailors remained focused and determined, working together as a team to overcome any obstacles that came their way.

It’s difficult to put into words the exact feeling one gets from sailing.

Some sail for the sense of freedom and independence the sport brings, others for the thrill. Some say the world looks anew from the deck of a sailboat.

PHRF MONOHULL OVER 200 n 1st David Wilson (Solitude) n 2nd John Huber (Green Flash) n 3rd Mike Landis (Eventide) PHRF MULTIHULL n 1st Doug Fisher (no name) n 2nd John Novack (Triple Threat)

Michael Landis and Marvin Quin, co-chairs, hold the Sarasota Bay Cup at the award ceremony.

As the race came to an end, it was clear that it was not just about winning.

It was about the thrill of the competition, the camaraderie of the sailors and the passion for the sport.

The race lasted about three hours and was followed by an awards ceremony with dinner and drinks.

Doug Fisher, winner of the Sarasota Bay Cup, explained that he and his crew started third from last on their PHRF multihull.

“It’s a catamaran, so you have to sail light. We had a lot of boats to pass and we got through all that traffic,” said Fisher. “It was perfect wind conditions and the air was light. It was windy enough that we reached 12 knots at times.”

Landis explained that to organize the regatta, it took an army.

“This was the weekend of parties interrupted by a sailboat race on Saturday afternoon,” said Landis.

MELGES 15 n 1st Jeff Eiber (USA 107) n 2nd Jack Dreyfuss n 3rd Lance Thomas (Directory Assistance) FLYING SCOT n 1st Don Perry (Leprechaun) n 2nd Charles Clifton (Ack Ack) n 3rd Jim Bigham (GOOMBA) SUNFISH n 1st Mary Ellen Brown n 2nd Chris Carroll n 3rd Lisa Brown Ehrhart E SCOW n 1st William Misenheimer n 2nd Theodore Weihe (Picardy) n 3rd Doug Dearden (Newbie)

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ON EVEN T KEEL

More than 60 boats sailed in the Bird Key Yacht Club’s Sarasota Bay Cup Regatta.

PHRF MONOHULL UNDER 200 n 1st Chad Weiss (Zephyr) n 2nd Rolf Hahn (Raegan-e) n 3rd Joe McClash (Wind Caller)

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

15

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

Republican Club of Longboat Key welcomes Ronna Romney Ronna Romney spoke to the club on April 11 at the Longboat Key Club’s Harbourside ballroom.

LESLEY DWYER Club President Garnett Black and guest speaker Ronna Romney

STAFF WRITER

L

ongboat Key is home to many prominent people, but one slipped under our noses — Ronna Romney. After years ­ of being in the public eye, Romney enjoys the freedom and luxury of a low-key life on Longboat. She’s been traveling back and forth between the island and her home state of Michigan for more than 20 years.

On April 11, she spoke to 70 members of the Republican Club of Longboat Key at a dinner meeting at Longboat Key Club’s Harbourside ballroom. Press was not allowed to attend the meeting, but Romney spoke to the Observer about what she had planned.

“I’m going to talk about the road to get here, discovering like women always do, who they are and what they’re good at,” she said. “And then I’m sure we’ll go to politics when we do the Q&A.” While Romney may be best known for her last name, or now as Ronna McDaniel’s mother, her resume speaks volumes for itself.

“One of our members asked if I would try to get her daughter, Ronna McDaniel, and I hated to call her because you hate to call the mother, but I looked her up,” Club President Garnett Black said. “She’s written books. She ran for the Senate. She worked for Bush. She worked for Reagan, and I went, ‘I don’t want the daughter, I want her.’”

Romney also hosted a radio show for nearly five years that aired in 38 states and seven countries. In a 1994 interview with the New York Times, she said, “I am the voice of the frustrated American.”

Much of her adult life was spent on the campaign trail, from the time

Richard Carroll and James Wright

she was married to Scott Romney in 1967 and her new father-in-law, George, ran for president in 1968 against Richard Nixon through 2012 when her brother-in-law, Mitt, ran for president against Barack Obama.

Once McDaniel became the chairwoman of the Republican National Committee, Romney took a step back.

“I stopped because you’re a news story. You say anything where they have to say, ‘Did you know your mother just did this? Do you agree with your mother?’ Most mothers don’t create news stories,” she said.

But the evening’s event was about Romney alone. The attendees were there to hear about her work and expertise. Currently, Romney serves as the vice chair of the board for Molina Healthcare.

“This lady here I knew in Michigan. Her husband was a congressman there for 16 years. Her name is Sandie Knollenberg, and her husband was Congressman Joe Knollenberg,” Romney said. “She happened to read in the paper that I was going to be here, so she came.”

Nancy McElmeel with Mark and Sally Hale

Photos by Lesley Dwyer

Jeff Cianci and Catherine Avery of Catherine Avery Investment Management, the event’s sponsor Michael and Valerie Morello with Dena and Dave Grubb

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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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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

17

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

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easy

Potluck party bids farewell at Longboat Key Public Tennis Center

T

he Longboat Key Public Tennis Center wished its seasonal members a fond farewell on April

11.

“The tennis center started in November 1998, and ever since I’ve been here, we’ve done this end-ofthe-year party where we do a potluck and get together,” Kay Thayer said.

“So it’s one of those things that we haven’t changed because it’s kind of our ritual. At the end of the year, people bring a dish to share and it works.”

Thayer has been managing the tennis center since 1999. Another ritual within the ritual is to thank the league captains.

“We kind of acknowledge them and say thank you for all they do because it is a thankless job. There’s no money involved and they have to direct their teams, which isn’t an easy feat,” Thayer said. “So that’s one reason we like to do this at the end of the year, and just again thank everybody — our members and visitors, Friends of Tennis, those that do so much for us.”

Andy Sawyer and David Pitt

Photos by Lesley Dwyer

— LESLEY DWYER

Andrew Geller and David Campbell

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

19

JEFF RHINELANDER 941-685-3590 | jef f@jef frhinelander.com

COURTNEY TARANTINO 941-893-7203 | cour tney.tarantino@floridamoves.com

BIRD KEY 410 MEADOW LARK | $3,795,000 | PENDING

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

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Walter Frank, member, and Co-presidents Lew Moyer and Ralph Liebstein enjoy the sun before starting the grill.

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The Temple Beth Israel organization held its last event before summer on Sunday at the Bay Isle Beach Club.

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Photos by Sidra Wali

Arlene Levyn and Bunny Skirboll

T

he Temple Beth Israel Men’s Club hosted a beach barbecue for its members Sunday at the Bay Isle Beach Club at 2111 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

It was the last event of the year before the start of summer; more than 68 members got together for laughs, sun and barbecue.

“Usually we get about 45 to 50 people, and this year we got 68, which blows my mind,” said Lew Moyer, co-president of Temple Beth Israel Men’s Club. “It’s a way to raise funds to make donations to the temple.”

Moyer has been a member of the club for eight years and co-president for seven. He said it took him a couple hours to put the whole thing together.

Temple Beth Israel consists of over 230 units. One unit consists of one household, whether that’s one person or more.

The temple, which opened in 1984, has a men’s club and women’s club that host a series of dinners and activities for its members.

It was a picture-perfect day for an afternoon in the sun, Moyer said.

“Me and my significant other, Sandy, have been here for five years permanently,” said Moyer.

He came from Michigan, and when asked if he missed the cold winters, he chuckled and gently shook his head.

Rabbi Stephen Sniderman, who will have been a rabbi for 48 years in June, explained that this barbecue was a way for everyone to get together and enjoy each other’s company in a relaxed environment.

“There were fears of some storms today,” Sniderman said as he pointed to glimmering waves. “Of course, that didn’t happen.”

— SIDRA WALI

401593-1

LONGBOAT KEY

401281-1

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

21

REID MURPHY PRESENTS

LUXURY ON THE WATER BUYING or SELLING Call Reid for a successful real estate experience!

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LONGBOAT KEY MAGNIFICENT GULF FRONT ESTATE

$22,000,000

Under Construction. New 5 BD, 8 BA, 100ft frontage on pristine walking beach. Expansive views from open living space & connected lanai. Fireplace, chef’s kitchen, glass wine room, service bar. First level master w/lanai. Junior suite and 2 guest suites have private terrace. Covered outdoor space has fireplace, outdoor kitchen & dining area. Dramatic infinity pool/spa w/ sundeck overlooks Gulf waters. 3 car garage. Home elevator. Hurricane screens. Completion date estimated for March 2023.

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Incredible 5BR/4BA home on 80’ of beachfront. Amazing views. Open living w/ guest quarters on 1st & 2nd level + 3rd level private master-suite. Amazing views & beautiful walking beach.

LONGBOAT KEY SANCTUARY

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Direct beachfront w/ amazing views. 8th floor offers fully unobstructed Gulf and Bay views. 3BR/3BA has private east & west terraces for gorgeous sunsets & sunrises . 24 hr guarded gate + full Sanctuary amenities.

LONGBOAT KEY EN PROVENCE

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LONGBOAT KEY L’AMBIENCE

$3,850,000

Spectacular 3BD/ 4BA 3,400sf open plan w/10’ ceilings & Gulf-side wrap around terraces. One of 21 in meticulously maintained Gulf front gated community w/ Gulfside pool & spa. Conveniently located mid-key.

Casually elegant direct beachfront walk-out. Rarely available 3BR/4BA floorplan + amenities include lobby concierge, 24 hr guarded gate, olympic sized pool, 2 har-tru tennis courts, fitness center & more.

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22

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

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 401267-1

941.724.7228

CathyMeldahl@michaelsaunders.com

WILD FLORIDA

Living and Working on Longboat Key for 40 Years

Miri Hardy

If you encounter an American alligator on the move, give them plenty of space and allow them to proceed at their own pace.

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Alligator activity on the rise seitreporp esitrepxe stluser

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mo|c.Longboat SEITREPORKey, P Florida SATOSARAS 40 Gulf of Mexico Dr

Staying a safe distance from these vital members of wetland ecosystems will help keep all out of danger. s a rain-fed river, the Wild and Scenic Myakka River has dramatically illustrated over recent months how its levels are affected by precipitation — or the lack thereof.

After historic flood levels associated with Hurricane Ian rainfall followed by little rain in recent months, water levels in Myakka River State Park have significantly dropped and are currently very low.

Myakka’s wetlands, which absorb and slow floodwaters during periods of excessive rain, are drying up as well.

When water levels in Myakka’s floodplain marshes and wetlands are high, American alligators spread out and enjoy their expanded habitats. Considered almost extinct in the 1950s and ’60s because of habitat loss and hunting, these iconic, critical members of our region’s ecosystems depend on wetlands; our ecosystems depend on them.

As apex predators, alligators help control rodent populations and other animals that might otherwise overtax marsh vegetation. The “gator holes” that adult alliga-

tors create and expand stay full of water even after the rains stop. By providing vital water for themselves, as well as for many other species, American alligators help keep unique Florida ecosystems at Myakka and beyond healthy for years to come. This time of year, late in our dry season, the chance increases of encountering an alligator making its way from drying wetlands back to rivers or other wet locations. They’re also more likely to be visible, due to lower water levels, the onset of breeding season and warmer (but not oppressively hot) temperatures, all of which result in higher levels of activity for these cold-blooded reptiles.

For everyone’s safety, if you encounter an alligator on the move, give it plenty of space — at least 25 feet is recommended — and don’t try to hurry it along. Also, as is the law, never harass or feed alligators.

When alligators are fed, they lose their natural wariness of humans and start to associate people with food. Because dogs and cats are the same size as natural alligator prey, keep them well away from possible alligator habitats.

— MIRI HARDY, FRIENDS OF THE MYAKKA RIVER CONTRIBUTOR

Friends of Myakka River exists to support Myakka River State Park and the Wild and Scenic Myakka River.

Follow us @FriendsOfMyakkaRiver

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WHY PAY MORE 595 Bowsprit Ln | Country Club Sh. | MLS#A4562940 3/2.5+ - 2,582 sf | Bay View | $3,295,000 John Gubernat (941) 962-4848

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

23

REAL ESTATE BY A REAL EXPERT

JUST LISTED • CONDO ON THE BAY 988 BLVD. OF THE ARTS #1114 • SARASOTA, FL • $1,750,000 Recently renovated and spacious 2BR/2BA residence with world-class bay views. From the Chef’s kitchen to the two terraces, the attention to detail is evident at every turn.

NEW PRICE • THE HARBOR 541 HARBOR POINT ROAD • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $7,950,000 Completely remodeled 5BR/6.5BA waterfront residence. From coffered walls in the striking dining room, to the clever master suite positioning, this residence from top to bottom is extraordinary.

NEW PRICE • PRIVATEER SOUTH 1000 LONGBOAT CLUB RD., #301 • LONGBAOT KEY, FL • $1,545,000 Rarely available 3BR/3BA corner residence offering over 1,700 sq. ft. of living space, with direct Gulf front views from multiple terraces.

GRAND BAY III 3030 GRAND BAY BLVD., #316 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $2,495,000 Panoramic golf, city, bay and marina views from this 3BR/3BA residence in one of the best locations in Grand Bay. Popular Antigua floor plan, featuring an expansive, extended terrace.

JUST LISTED • L’AMBIANCE 435 L’AMBIANCE DR., #K905 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $4,200,000 Sprawling penthouse Sabal floor plan, offering over 2,800 SF, and views spanning the Gulf of Mexico, Sarasota Bay and Links golf course. Soaring 12’ ceilings, high-impact glass, and 2 covered parking spaces.

NEW PRICE • ATRIUM - FAIRWAY BAY 2120 HARBOURSIDE DR., #611 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $1,095,000 Corner 3BR/3BA residence featuring the popular Banyan floor plan, with terraces off each of the bedrooms, and walkdown access to the tropical grounds bay.

GRAND BAY V 3080 GRAND BAY BLVD., #532 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $950,000 Savor afternoon sun exposure and unobstructed views of the golf course, and sparkling Sarasota Bay. This 2BR/2BA residence presents an opportunity for your distinct touches and style.

BEACHPLACE 1095 GULF OF MEXICO DR., #504 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $,1095,000 Breathtaking views through windows and sliders of high-impact glass from this 2BR/2BA updated residence.

Includes 2 assigned parking spaces. Beachplace offers favorable rental terms.

1350 MAIN 1350 MAIN ST., PENTHOUSE 1704 • SARASOTA, FL • $7,500,000 THE ONE - Redesigned 3,208 SF entertainers penthouse offering jet liner views of the city, Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Completely remodeled by one of the region’s finest builders.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION 2945 PYRULA DRIVE • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $3,345,000 Exceptional quality, untouched refinement, 2-story, 5BR/5BA, 3,815 sq. ft. residence. Features abound, including a separate in-law suite and large 3-car garage. Expansive outdoor area with heated pool and spa.

Bruce Myer

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Bruce@BruceMyer.com • www.BruceMyer.com

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

PET PICS 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!

10TH ANNIVERSARY

SUMMERTIME SHOULD BE THE BEST PART OF THE YEAR.

Sadly, OVER 40,000 local kids will need food this summer.

YOU can change that.

END SUMMER HUNGER AT ALLFAITHSFOODBANK.ORG

Thank you to our lead investors

Your Observer is a proud supporter of All Faiths Food Bank

LAST LICKS: Miss Zara lounging in the pool at the Grand Mariner on Longboat Key. 399040-1

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

25

The Next Evolution of Luxury Begins

Introducing 78 Grand New Residences on Sarasota’s Bayfront From the private entry to the panoramic views, the timeless spirit of The Ritz-Carlton is embraced in a fresh, modern attitude. Legendary service is complemented by an incomparable array of private, waterfront amenities and an exceptional location in the cultural heart of Florida’s West Coast.

Bayfront Luxury Residences Starting from $4M Presentation Gallery Now Open at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota 1111 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Sarasota, Florida 34236 941.499.8704 | TheResidencesSarasotaBay.com

Broker Participation Welcomed and Encouraged. ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE SELLER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS BROCHURE AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A SELLER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. This project has been filed in the state of Florida and no other state. This is not an offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy the condominium units in states where such offer or solicitation cannot be made. Prices and availability are subject to change at any time without notice. Images are artist’s renderings and may not represent the final building. Furnishings and fixtures are for display purposes and are not included with the residence. Actual improvements, including, recreational facilities and amenities, may vary from those shown and views may not be available from all units.

PRESENTED BY

402382-1

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Bay are not owned, developed or sold by Marriott International, Inc. or its affiliates (“Ritz-Carlton”). KT Sarasota South, LLC uses The Ritz-Carlton marks under a license from Ritz-Carlton, which has not confirmed the accuracy of any of the statements or representations made herein.

26

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

Downtown Sarasota’s Premier Senior Rental Retirement Residence

FRIDAY, APRIL 28, 2023 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM

To RSVP Call 941-955-9099

Event committee members Mary DelPup, Betty Lou Miccio, Dottie Mueller, Nancy Hjort, June Hessel and Peggy Schwass pose together before mingling with other guests.

AL#8979

ERS’ EXPECTATIONS GBOAT KEY

We will be enjoying wine and cheese under the shade of our Oak Tree, while listening to Jazz selections from this talented group.

386511-1

You are invited to a special intimate performance put on by the Sarasota Jazz Project.

AldermanOaks.com 727 Hudson Avenue Sarasota, FL 34236

The end-of-season event drew 100 fun-loving residents for a farewell soiree.

ExceedingExpectations

JUST LISTED Sellers’

F

on Longboat Key

...AND UNDER CONTRACT 2326 HARBOUR New Listing OAKS DR.

3 BR | 2.5 BA | 2,282 SFSELLERS’ EXPECTATIONS EXCEEDING EXCEEDING SELLERS’ EXPECTATIONS $1,225,000 | MLS# A4550092 LONGBOAT KEY ONON LONGBOAT KEY EXCEEDING SELLERS’ EXPECTATIONS BUILD YOUR LISTED KEY DREAMHOME! ONJUST LONGBOAT ...AND JUST LISTED

540 HARBOR COVE CIRCLE

VACANT LAND LISTING $3,400,000 Privateer South GulfResidential MLS# A4534178 front with VacantCondo Land MLS# A4535177

UNDER CONTRACT

...AND 2326 HARBOUR OAKS DR. UNDER CONTRACT 3 BR | 2.5 BA | 2,282 SF

JUST LISTED

| MLS# A4550092 Windows and Doors • Located$1,225,000 on pristine white 2326 HARBOUR OAKS DR. beaches behind the gates • Updated kitchen and ...AND 3 BR | 2.5 BA | 2,282 SF of the Longboat Key Club baths $1,225,000 | MLS# A4550092 UNDER CONTRACT BUILD YOUR • Large two bedroom • Bamboo flooring DREAMHOME! condo with open split • Turnkey furnished OAKS DR. 2326 HARBOUR floor plan • Gulf, Bay, Downtown 3 BR | 2.5 and BA | 2,282 SF 540Impact HARBOR COVE CIRCLE • Hurricane Views BUILD YOUR $1,225,000 | MLS# A4550092

Panoramic Views

1000 Longboat Club Rd. #604 2 BR | 2 BA | 1,409 SF $1,200,000 | MLS# A4566900

LAST SIX MONTHS

VACANT LAND LISTING

DREAMHOME! $3,400,000

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

Residential MLS# A4534178

Vacant Land MLS# Open House Sunday 1 to 4A4535177 pm Sold 540 HARBOR COVE CIRCLE BUILD YOUR

VACANT LAND LISTING

DREAMHOME!

VacantFAIR LandOAKS MLS# LANE A4535177 3555 SOLD FOR $2,300,000

540 HARBOR COVE CIRCLE

580 BIRDIE LANE $3,400,000 SALES IN LAST Residential SIX MONTHS MLS# A4534178 SOLD HOME FOR $4,260,000 2341 HARBOUR OAKS CIR. SOLD FOR $1,275,000

2101 HARBOURSIDE DRIVEBeachfront 580 BIRDIE LANE Bay Isles Villa Getaway

VACANT LAND LISTING $3,400,000 Residential Bay Isles MLS# A4534178 Vacant Land MLS# A4535177

HOME SIXFORMONTHS SOLD SALES FOR $1,310,000IN LAST SOLD $4,260,000 2373 Harbour Oaks Dr 6701 Gulf of Mexico Dr #331 2339 Harbour Oaks Dr 3BR |HARBOUR 2.5 BA | 2,245OAKS SF 2341 CIR. $1,150,000 | MLS# A4561177 SOLD FOR $1,275,000

Seaplace Condo members party with ‘Frank Sinatra’

2BR | 2BA | 1,520 SF OAKS LANE 3BR | 2.5BA | 2,396 SF 3555 FAIR $1,249,000 | MLS# A4560728 $1,200,000 | MLS# A4559128

SOLD FOR $2,300,000 HOME SALES IN LAST SIX MONTHS

RECENT SALES 2101 HARBOURSIDE DRIVE 580 BIRDIE LANE 2341 HARBOUR OAKS CIR. 3555 FAIR OAKS LANE SOLD FOR $1,310,000 SOLD FOR $4,260,000 L’Elegance | 1800 Benjamin Franklin Drive #B206 | $2,850,000 SOLD FOR $1,275,000 SOLD FOR $2,300,000

rank Sinatra’s “Fly Me to the Moon” played from the speakers welcoming everyone into the room at the farewell party marking the end of the season April 12 at the Seaplace condomium at 2045 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

At 5 p.m., Seaplace residents gathered at the clubhouse over the clinking of Champagne glasses and platters of hors d’oeuvres.

Guests plucked one or two bites from platters before the appetizers passed them by.

June Hessel, chair of the event committee and member of the board of directors, has been planning these parties for over three years now, although she’s helped with several more.

“We do this every year, and tonight we’ll have about 100 people in total show up for it,” said Hessel.

“Our farewell parties always have a theme, and tonight, it’s ‘Italian’ because I booked our singer first.”

Bill Stabile, a Frank Sinatra tribute artist, crooned on the stage.

Stabile sang Sinatra’s classics and then moved onto hits from the 1960s through the ’80s.

Hessel and her late husband bought their Seaplace home 38 years ago and became full-time residents four years ago wanting

Photos by Sidra Wali

to become even more of a part of the community.

“My husband, Daniel, passed away at the end of November and this will be my second party without him at Seaplace,” said Hessel.

“It brings our community together.

We’ve had a lot of changes with cost increases and other things — this is just a way to bring some joy.

Get people together and talk to one another.”

Hessel explained that tickets included entertainment, food and “all the beer and wine they can drink.”

In two weeks, Hessel and the event committee will start planning events for next year at Seaplace.

“This party is very popular, but it will wrap up around 9 p.m. tonight,” said Hessel. “After all, we have to get home.”

Sue Pariseau and Sandy Endres, members of the committee, have planned many events together.

— SIDRA WALI

Bay Isles | 2369 Harbour Oaks Drive | $1,350,000

580 BIRDIE LANE SOLD FOR $1,310,000 $4,260,000 Longtime residents of Longboat with over BEVERLY ST. HILAIRE SOLD FORKey

JULIE KLICK 818.416.2505 941.780.6001

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JULIE| Sarasota, KLICK FL 34236 | 914.388.4447 | MichaelSaunders.com BEVERLY ST. HILAIRE 61 S. Boulevard of the Presidents

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JULIE KLICK

Longtime residents of 941.780.6001 Longboat Key with over 30 years of 818.416.2505 34236 | 941.388.4447 | www.michaelsaunders.com beverlysthilaire@michaelsaunders.com JulieKlick@michaelsaunders.com combined experience specializing in Longboat Key real estate.BeverlySellsSarasota.com LivingonLongboat.com Longtime residents of Longboat Key with over 30 years of combined experience specializing in Longboat Key real estate.

Home is Closer Than You Think

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

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

FEATURED LISTINGS

1 PLACE TO SHOP FOR CATS & CAT LOVERS #

2542 17th St., Sarasota, FL 34234 | www.catdepot.org | 941.366.2404

CURRENT PENDINGS 5737 Ithaca Way - LIST PRICE: $489,900 315 Jackson Drive - LIST PRICE: $2,000,000 415 L’Ambiance Unit C50 -LIST PRICE: $3,450,000 7007 9th Avenue NW -LIST PRICE: $735,000

RECENT SALES 2586 Prospect Street - SOLD PRICE: $1,721,000 1350 MAIN STREET, UNIT 803, SARASOTA -LIST PRICE: $950,000

3499 BYRON LANE, LONGBOAT KEY -LIST PRICE: $1,099,000

2576 Prospect Street -SOLD PRICE: $1,350,000

401000-1

Elevate your real estate experience. Contact the Anderson Group today.

Dianne Anderson is a licensed real estate agent affi liated with Compass, 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. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not refl ect actual property conditions.”

Dianne Anderson

The Anderson Group 941.350.3513 dianne.anderson@compass.com dianneanderson.com

401581-1

2101 HARBOURSIDE DRIVE BEVERLY ST. HILAIRE

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

TOP Sales Team Florida

in the state of

Kepecz@JudyHays.com | www.LongboatKeyLuxury.com

Lori Lawson Judy Kepecz-Hays Steven Kepecz (941) 587.1700 (941) 376.6411

JUDY KEPECZ -HAYS TEAM

27

Coldwell Banker Realty 423 St. Armands Circle Sarasota, FL, 34236

April 6, 2023

$2.3 Billion Career Sales April 20, 2023

408 Jackson Dr | St. Armand's - LIDO KEY 3 bed + den, 3 bath | 2,344 sq.ft.

The Gem of all Jewels on St. Armands Circle!

The location makes this spacious home with a pool an exceptional opportunity for those who want to be minutes from St Armand's Circle, Lido Beach, and Main Street in the heart of the city.

The residence has many modern updates and unique features that add to its overall appeal. The newer windows improve energy efficiency, and the high ceilings feel more open and airy. The family room/office can easily be converted to a 4th bedroom with its glass wall. Walk out to the garden, pool, and patio.

Offered for $2,988,000

435 L’Ambiance Dr #H802 | LONGBOAT KEY 2 bed + den or 3 bed, 3 bath | 2,525 sq. ft.

Updated perfection is here, ready for enjoyment. Iconic luxury, 270 degrees of endless views. Welcome to L’Ambiance, Longboat Key’s spectacular residence defined by sophistication, casual elegance, and gracious living.

Surrounded by gentle breezes off the water, set as one of the most prestigious residences to live on Longboat Key. Endless amenities plus three guest suites. Legendary service, extraordinary Bay and Gulf of Mexico views. COMPLETELY UPDATED. Offered for $4,500,000

RITZ CARLTON MANAGED THE BEACH RESIDENCES 1300 Benjamin Franklin Dr #601

3 bed, 3.5 bath | 4,194 sq. ft.

BEYOND IMAGINATION, with unparalleled amenities and a lifestyle of privacy and comfort awaits you here to create everlasting memories. Instant enjoyment with captivating views from this ultimate southwest corner residence. Generously proportioned wrap-around terrace with sliding floor-to-ceiling glass windows and doors offer stunning views in this meticulously designed, ALMOST NEW residence.

Offered for $5,500,000

ROSEWOOD RESIDENCES

BANYAN BAY on the Bayside

PRE-CONSTRUCTION New on Lido Key! Sugar-soft sand and the glistening Gulf will soon be home to the 65 owners of Rosewood Residences.

Five unique floorplans, 3335 to 4942 sq. ft.

Offered from $5.9 million

5260 Gulf of Mexico Drive | LONGBOAT KEY 3 bed, 3 bath | 1,453 Sq Ft Rarely on the market! This Gulf to Bay community is a pet-friendly (no weight limit), 44 residences only that offers tennis courts, pool and day dock fishing pier . Offered for $749,000

Thinking of selling? Please call us for similar results!

JUDY KEPECZ - HAYS (941) 587-1700

400810-1

Li New st in g

3030 Grand Bay Blvd #321 | LONGBOAT KEY 3 bed, 3.5 bath | 2,925 sq. ft.

Be prepared to be WOWED! Upon arrival home, you take your private elevator to your residence. Here you are hypnotized by the captivating views of the Sunrise, Bay, City, and the Longboat Key Mooring Marina.

Every room has a sliding glass door with access to your wraparound terrace to enjoy Sarasota and her islands. Three bedrooms and three and a half baths await its new owner.

This gated community includes 24 hr. security, clubhouse activities, heated swimming pools and spa, tennis courts, a library, a fitness center, and deeded beach access via Bay Isles Private Beach Club.

JUST LISTED! Offered for $2,750,000 Gulf to Bay Community

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

LONGBOAT KEY 876 Tarawitt Drive 4 Beds 3 Baths 2,894 Sq. Ft. Brian Loebker & Jonathan Abrams 941-735-4393 A4564430 $7,000,000

LONGBOAT KEY 1630 Harbor Cay Lane The Walter Group 941-809-0907 A4557741 $4,995,000

LONGBOAT KEY 535 Sanctuary Drive A601 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,115 Sq. Ft. Michael Nink & Sandi Layfield 941-914-2805 A4561108 $3,599,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3590 Fair Oaks Lane 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,957 Sq. Ft. Deborah Schlener & JoDene Moneuse 651-894-3916 A4564100 $3,200,000

LONGBOAT KEY 830 Tarawitt Drive 4 Beds 3 Baths 2,447 Sq. Ft. The Walter Group 941-232-2000 A4545868 $2,995,000

LONGBOAT KEY 554 Jessmyth Drive 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 4,700 Sq. Ft. Sherri Mills 941-350-7112 A4557120 $2,995,000

LONGBOAT KEY 600 De Narvaez Drive 3 Beds 3 Baths 1,971 Sq. Ft. Olivia Marciniak 941-400-1623 A4545926 $2,890,000

LONGBOAT KEY 699 Penfield Street 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,536 Sq. Ft. Cathy Meldahl & Susan Smith 941-724-7228 A4560631 $2,600,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3312 Bayou Road 3 Beds 3 Baths 3,372 Sq. Ft. Michael Moulton 941-928-3559 A4559740 $2,500,000

LONGBOAT KEY 455 Longboat Club Road 307 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,410 Sq. Ft. Mark J Baron 631-800-1125 A4563162 $2,395,000

LONGBOAT KEY 524 Halyard Lane 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,668 Sq. Ft. The Walter Group 941-809-0907 A4561273 $1,995,000

LONGBOAT KEY 1211 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 601 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,100 Sq. Ft. The Walter Group 941-809-0907 A4566219 $1,995,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3402 Fair Oaks Lane 3 Beds 4/1 Baths 3,510 Sq. Ft. Kathy Callahan 941-900-8088 A4559729 $1,850,000

LONGBOAT KEY 1910 Harbourside Drive 501 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,135 Sq. Ft. Judy Nimz 941-374-0196 A4561559 $1,720,000

LONGBOAT KEY 370 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 412 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,380 Sq. Ft. Steve Nursey & Bobbie Banan 941-356-2659 A4566686 $1,650,000

LONGBOAT KEY 775 Longboat Club Road 505 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,602 Sq. Ft. Drew Russell 941-993-3739 A4566862 $1,495,000

LONGBOAT KEY 530 De Narvaez Drive 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,944 Sq. Ft. Jodene Moneuse 941-302-4913 A4553308 $1,280,000

LONGBOAT KEY 6701 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 331 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,520 Sq. Ft. Julie Klick 941-780-6001 A4560728 $1,249,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3444 Winding Oaks Drive 42 3 Beds 2 Baths 2,189 Sq. Ft. The Walter Group 941-809-0907 A4564627 $1,225,000

LONGBOAT KEY 1000 Longboat Club Road 604 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,409 Sq. Ft. Julie Klick & Beverly St Hilaire 941-780-6001 A4566900 $1,200,000

LONGBOAT KEY 210 Sands Point Road 2502 1 Bed 1 Baths 642 Sq. Ft. Kathleen Griffin 941-302-3979 A4567015 $1,100,000

LONGBOAT KEY 2115 Harbourside Drive 1004 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,906 Sq. Ft. Jodene Moneuse 941-302-4913 A4566654 $999,000

LONGBOAT KEY 4900 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 203B 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,312 Sq. Ft. Richard Perlman 941-228-8580 A4561732 $849,900

LONGBOAT KEY 4320 Falmouth Drive B202 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,072 Sq. Ft. Bill Anderson & Adrienne Scott 941-313-4059 A4558803 $695,000

LONGBOAT KEY 4320 Falmouth Drive B102 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,072 Sq. Ft. Malihe Karimi 941-376-5099 A4554376 $619,000

LONGBOAT KEY 520 Chipping Lane 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 4,412 Sq. Ft. Michael Moulton 941-928-3559 A4553676 $6,600,000

LONGBOAT KEY 5910 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 4,210 Sq. Ft. The Walter Group 941-809-0907 A4559091 $6,295,000

LONGBOAT KEY 781 Hideaway Bay Drive 4 Beds 4 Baths 5,469 Sq. Ft. Mark J Baron 631-800-1125 A4554268 $5,500,000

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM 401851-1

28

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR

A

condominium in L’Elegance of Lido Beach tops all transactions in this week’s real estate. Philip Crimmins, trustee, of Frisco, Texas, sold the Unit B-206 condominium at 1800 ­Benjamin Franklin Drive to Gregory John Pusinelli and Marie Pusinelli, trustees, of Chicago, for $2.85 million.

Built in 1996, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,070 square feet of living area. It sold for $700,000 in 2000.

REAL ESTATE

$2.85M condo in L’Elegance of Lido Beach tops sales

29

File photo

Unit B-206 of L’Elegance of Lido Beach at 1800 Benjamin Franklin Drive sold for $2.85 million.

QUEEN’S HARBOUR

Francis and Kathleen Garcia, of Longboat Key, sold their home at 3503 Fair Oaks Court to KLP Securities LLC for $2.4 million. Built in 2000, it has four bedrooms, fourand-a-half baths, a pool and 3,461 square feet of living area. It sold for $1,245,000 in 2017.

COREY’S LANDING

Gloria Biberman, of Sarasota, sold her home at 3414 Fair Oaks Lane to Joseph and Rosemary Burgess, of Longboat Key, for $1,865,000. Built in 1991, it has four bedrooms, fourand-a-half baths, a pool and 3,724 square feet of living area. It sold for $1,125,000 in 2005.

ST. ARMANDS TOWERS NORTH

John and Cynthia Smith, of Nashville, Tennessee, sold their Unit 83 condominium at 1 Benjamin Franklin Drive to John Pinckney Booker III, of Sarasota, for $1,575,000. Built in 1968, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,389 square feet of living area. It sold for $850,000 in 2017.

BEACHPLACE

Margaret Farkas, trustee, of Beaver, Pennsylvania, sold the Unit 605 condominium at 1135 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Donn Knight, trustee, of Longboat Key, for $1.55 million.

Built in 1980, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,503 square feet of living area. It sold for $353,000 in 2004.

Richard and Laura Ogden, of Washington, D.C., sold their Unit 303 condominium at 1105 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Alan Sharaf and Carolynn Levy, of Brookline, Massachusetts, for $1,175,000. Built

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

APRIL 3-7

in 1981, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,503 square feet of living area. It sold for $490,000 in 2010.

VILLA CASUARINA

Margaret Taylor and Sten Bringert, trusses, and Andrew and Jessica Uelsmann, of Gainesville, sold the Unit 4 condominium at 5321 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Karee and Edward Valek, of Sarasota, for $940,000.

Built in 1970, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 988 square feet of living area. It sold for $150,000 in 2021.

Courtesy of Beverly St. Hilaire, Michael Saunders & Co.

ISLANDER CLUB OF LONGBOAT

Jack Schwarz, as President for Aria Longboat Key Condominium Association Inc., sold the Unit 24-S condominium at 2295 Gulf of Mexico Drive to TALKWW LLC for $500,000. Built in 1970, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,235 square feet of living area. It sold for $410,000 in 2018.

Built in 1996, the condo has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,070 square feet of living area.

In with the new NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION

ONLINE See more transactions

Downtown St. Petersburg

at YourObserver.com

TOP BUILDING PERMITS

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

These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of April 7-13 in order of dollar amounts.

SOLD OUT

L O N G B OAT K E Y ADDRESS PERMIT 1045 Gulf of Mexico Drive #404 Renovations

APPLICANT Chris J. Thompson

AMOUNT($) $325,000

545 Sanctuary Drive #B206 Windows & doors

Jerald M. Pollard

$273,034

565 Sanctuary Drive #B505

WW300 Trust

$229,062

Haberman Family

$148,000

Windows & doors

1095 Gulf of Mexico Drive #204 Renovations 3580 Mistletoe Lane

Windows & doors

Michael W. McNally

$122,509

641 Kingfisher Lane

Re-roof

Gary Golub

$99,000

Robert Brian Govoni

$68,512

1955 Gulf of Mexico Drive #31 Renovations

1050 Longboat Club Road #203 Windows & doors GD2001 LLC

$49,195

2350 Harbour Oak Drive

Windows & doors

Robert and Theresa Fink

$43,880

630 Companion Way

Plumbing -

Thomas Lawrence Wienholt

$42,000

Michael J. Carroll

$41,907

Longboat Key

The Residences at the St. Regis | 941.213.3300 | From $2.4MM to $10.9MM | Call for appointment | SRResidencesLongboatKey.com 1 FINAL OPPORTUNITY AVAILABLE

New Construction A/C changeout

455 Longboat Club Road #802 Mechanical

Antonio Pimentel

$27,614

Plumbing - Sewer Michael J. Carroll

$23,416

3320 Gulf of Mexico Drive #306C Windows & doors Dolores Engelke

$19,800

547 Bayview Drive

$18,908

750 Penfield St.

Re-roof

Samuel E. Boddie

3804 Gulf of Mexico Drive #B305 Renovations

Timothy William Krone

$15,985

601 Buttonwood Drive

Plumbing

Carrie Cimino

$15,000

6525 Gulf of Mexico Drive

Roof

John D. Rayis

$14,000

601 Russell St.

Re-roof

Wayne Penny

$12,600

1445 Gulf of Mexico Drive #303 A/C changeout

Steven D. Meyer

$11,489

585 Sancutary Drive

Sanctuary I at Longboat

$11,170

A/C changeout

3806 Gulf of Mexico Drive #C101 Windows & doors Brent J. Leonard

$11,587

3804 Gulf of Mexico Drive #B307 A/C changeout

John J. Corry

$10,657

750 Penfield St.

Electrical

Michael J. Carroll

$10,415

625 Buttonwood Drive

Renovations

David M. Satnick

$9,376 Source: Town of Longboat Key

Downtown Sarasota

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

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

Licensed Real Estate Broker

401827-1

750 Penfield St.

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

YOUR CALENDAR

30

SFFBF.org

BEST BET SATURDAY, APRIL 22

NATURE TALKS AND WALKS FOR EARTH DAY 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Free. Enjoy exhibitions from Florida Forest Service, Longboat Key Turtle Watch, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Save our Seabirds, Florida Maritime Museum and more, before the panel discussion at 1:30 p.m.

Topics of discussion include Sarasota Bay water quality, Mote Marine Laboratory research, wildlife conservation, ecology and coastal community planning.

File photo

Longboat Key Turtle Watch volunteers Jeff Driver, Tim Thurman, Kim Maddox and Terri Driver man a table at the 2022 Nature Talks and Walks event at the Longboat Island Chapel.

THURSDAY, APRIL 20

SPRING FLING 5:30 p.m. All Angels Episcopal Church Parish Hall, 563 Bay Isles Road. The second annual Spring Fling brings together church members new and old for outdoor fun, lawn games, community and more.

Celebrating 70 years of Corvette

MONDAY, APRIL 24

HATE IS HERE: HOW CAN WE STOP IT? 7 p.m. at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. Tom Baugher, SarasotaManatee Jewish Federation’s community security director, will describe the current state of hate groups locally, and Lindsey Mintz, the federation’s director of community engagement, will discuss actions that can be taken to confront anti-Semitism and other hatreds.

The documentary “Not in Our Town” will be screened. This event is free and open to the public. Register by April 21 to attend in person or to watch the livestream by calling 3833428 or emailing Office@LongboatKeyTemple.org.

Scan for website

402456-1

RECURRING EVENTS WEEKDAYS

LONGBOAT LIBRARY

From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday, 555 Bay Isles Road.

On Wednesdays, most books are on sale for $1 or less. Call 383-2011.

MONDAYS

STRETCH AND 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 $15. Walk-ins welcome.

Call 383-6493.

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 $15.

Walk-ins welcome. Call 383-6493.

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND FRIDAYS

PUMPING THE PRIME From 10-11 a.m. at Bayfront Park Recreation Center, 4052 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Low-impact cardio and strength exercises to boost metabolism, strengthen muscles and bones.

Instructor is Mirabai Holland. Cost is $10 for members; $15 for others.

Call (201) 956-1466.

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

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We Buy & Sell All Precious Metal Coins & Bars

Did you inherit a collection? Eastern makes selling your valuables for top dollar easy and worry free. Our experts will work with you to quickly evaluate your collection. For more information visit our website : www.USCOINS.com

Call For an Appointment

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

5275 University Pkwy. Ste. 129, University Park, Fl 34201

Business Hours: Monday-Friday 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

12 Years at the Same Location

Call For The Current Price

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WE BUY IT ALL

YourObserver.com

31

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

SUNRISE / SUNSET

FRIDAY, APRIL 21

WEATHER

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

FORECAST

Sunrise Sunset

High: 82 Low: 69 Chance of rain: 6%

Thursday, April 20

7:01a

7:58p

Friday, April 21

7:00a

7:58p

Saturday, April 22

6:59a

7:59p

Sunday, April 23

6:58a

7:59p

SATURDAY, APRIL 22

Monday, April 24

6:57a

8:00p

High: 80 Low: 68 Chance of rain: 24%

Tuesday, April 25

6:56a

8:00p

Wednesday, April 26

6:55a

8:01p

MOON PHASES SUNDAY, APRIL 23 High: 74 Low: 63 Chance of rain: 6%

May 5 Full

May 12 Last

May 19 New

May 27 First

TIDES Highs Lows

Jenelle Alber captured this photo of a bird of paradise in Longbeach Village on Longboat Key.

Thursday, April 20

1:25a

12:21p

6:58a

8:13p

Friday, April 21

2:18a

12:42p

7:13a

8:55p

Saturday, April 22

3:13a

1:07p

7:24a

9:39p

Sunday, April 23

4:18a

1:36p

7:24a

10:27p

Monday, April 24

—

2:09p

7:29a

11:22p

Tuesday, April 25

—

2:48

—

—

Wednesday, April 26

—

3:37p

—

—

Submit your photos at YourObserver.com/contests. All submissions will be entered for the 2023-24 Weather and Nature photo contest. In February 2024, you will vote for your favorite photo, and the submission with the most votes will win a $500 gift card.

We have all of your luxury flooring needs carpet | hardwood | tile | stone | pavers | and more Sarasota 941.355.8437 | Bradenton 941.748.4679 | Venice 941.493.7441 | manasotaonline.com

The grounded feeling everyone will enjoy

celebrity cipher

CAMPING MISHAPS by David Alfred Bywaters , edited by Jeff Chen

DOWN

som flavors) 57 Polite denial

1 “That’s ___!”

58 Mariner’s workplace

2 Oak origin

60 Hapless

3 Boatload

63 Giant brought down by an 4 Game also known as wapiti underdog 5 Enter unobtrusively 64 Fellow occupant 6 Cries often accompanying

65 Soldier’s greeting

head-slaps

68 Funnel-shaped fish traps

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

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“H RHYY ULYY ZJA RFGU H IGE’U GXHVL ... RJKLE IMHUHIHWHED JUFLM RJKLE GEV KJUFLMC IMHUHIHWHED JUFLM KJUFLMC.”

7 “Honest” POTUS

10 Cordelia’s regal father

75 Squandered

11 Bookie’s concern

76 “ ‘O frabjous day! Callooh!

12 “I see!”

Callay!’ He chortled in ___

13 Dimension often quoted

joy”

before width

78 Sighing sound

14 Annoying customer

79 Regale with stories

service message

81 Place

15 Charity

82 Cable car

16 Corp. heads

83 Org. that filed for bank-

17 Last of the House of

ruptcy in 2021

Stuart

84 Display type for many a

18 Gets sight of

watch (Abbr.)

20 Eyelid affliction

85 “Well, looky here!”

23 David and Alfred

86 Slangy denial

28 Make void

88 Pines 31 Ohio city sharing its name 93 Belonging to us with a Spanish city 94 Dry up

©2023 Universal Uclick

ACROSS 1 Corset tighteners 6 Company once known as “Fluor-S-Art Co.” 12 Llama cousins

30 “Gotta run!”

32 Network acronym formed 67 “Bye!”

21 Ancient Greek 22 Camper’s flatware mishap?

24 Flower originating from Adonis’ blood and Aphrodite’s tears, according to myth 25 Slang term for a rowing machine 26 Is worth it 27 Celestial bear 29 Fuels (up)

96 Camper’s sleeping bag mishap?

in 1928

69 Rock

99 Verizon rival

34 Negative particles?

71 Rower’s need

101 Serve as a model

36 Four quarters

73 Less upscale

102 To and ___

76 Get well

103 Logician’s productions

77 Conditional release

106 Olfactory emanations

44 Politician’s tool

80 “It’s a ___!”

110 Planted

47 Important descendant

81 Camper’s chewing gum

113 Action in a conga line

49 Letter-shaped fastener

mishap?

114 Constellation named for a

50 Saintly circles

84 Pines (for)

victim of Hercules

51 Secret agents

87 Sets of socks and shoes,

116 A, but not a

53 Mule’s sire

usually

118 Camper’s late-night

54 Painter Frida

89 Spectacle support

consolation?

55 Follows orders

90 First country in the

122 Spring stream source

19 Statement that might halt 37 Camper’s reading mishap? raises 20 Got serious (with “up”)

66 Used to be

56 Camper’s lettuce mishap? Western Hemisphere to per-

123 Julian and Joaquin

59 Grist grinder

manently abolish slavery

Castro

61 Recitative alternative

91 Utter disorder

124 Easily duped

62 Statement that may initi-

92 Prefix meaning “eight”

125 Makes a choice

ate wagering

93 Coming up

126 Brunch dish

63 Some goose lovers

95 Feat

127 Make some confetti

32 Near

97 Skeptic’s slangy riposte 33 Container for recyclables 98 Remarkable 35 Piece of furniture named 100 Board game counters for an empire

103 Inconveniences for olive

37 More dubious

eaters

38 Geographical suffix in

104 Talent

central Asia

105 Be a waiter

39 Like many broadcasts

106 Corrosive stuff

these days

107 Sprint or relay

40 Aesop allegory

108 Energy cartel (Abbr.)

41 Inn offering

109 Puccini’s Bohemian

42 Shyly flirtatious

heroine

43 Double curve

111 Norwegian capital

44 “Bosh!”

112 Fly-swatting exclamation

45 “Don Giovanni” and “Don

113 It’s fit to be tied

Carlos”

115 Approved

46 Make a connection

117 Sarge’s superiors

48 Pet that purrs

119 Up to, briefly

52 Bro’s sib, maybe

120 Like Bach’s French Suite

54 Kit ___ (candy offered in

No. 6

soy sauce and cherry blos-

121 “Well, lah-di-___!”

“BH PZY MCTYK KBNJYBPY YKAY DAYHYK DBJMYU RYBJH BFC, PC ECJFYP B ZCKCIBNHP AH PC XAKK PDAIY.” AJAH IZBMF

“AJ WDP’BR VDAKV XD MD FDCRXTAKV OBDKV, MD AX ZAV, ZRLNPFR XTR EPKAFTCRKX AF XTR FNCR RAXTRB ONW.” © 2023 NEA, Inc.

GNWKR CNKFJARSM

sudoku

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

402022-1

74 Encourage in misbehavior

Puzzle Two Clue: N equals U

9 Turkey’s kin

Puzzle One Clue: P equals F

69 Brief period, briefly 8 Second-person possessive 70 Grown fond of adjective, in some dialects 72 Spruced up

TLEEHPLM DGMELM

Puzzle Three Clue: L equals C

crossword

399842-1

at MANASOTA FLOORING INC

KITCHEN | CABINETRY OUTDOOR PAVERS

©2023 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

4-20-23

Made for where you live. Here!

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.

SOFT-SIDED TOOL bag $20.

Ladies golf clubs, $50. gpkoch1925@verizon.com

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

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

M-F Ask about our special rates!

Wagner Realty

COMPANION, PERSONAL CAREGIVER. Will take care of you or your loved one. A kind, cheerful, patient, self-motivated, 54 year old English lady. Local business owner for over 30 years.

Excellent references.

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Call Wendy 941-666-2543 Or email Wendy8868@icloud.com

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RED PAGES AD RATES First 15 words ..................... $ 17.50 per week Each add’l word .......... 50¢

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This week’s Crossword answers

©2023 Universal Uclick

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “I will tell you what I can’t abide ... women criticizing other women and mothers criticizing other mothers.”

Jennifer Garner Puzzle Two Solution: “As the Nobel laureate Elie Wiesel warned years ago, to forget a holocaust is to kill twice.”

Iris Chang Puzzle Three Solution: “If you’re going to do something wrong, do it big, because the punishment is the same either way.”

Jayne Mansfield

This week’s Sudoku answers

CELL: 941-809-3725 OFFICE: 941-331-8000 www.alhhomecare.com 3478 17th St Sarasota, FL 34235

Direct from your backyard... skipper out to the bay!!

Build your new home...

Lot only $988,660...

ONLY CANAL FRONT LOT IN THE HISTORIC VILLAGE..ON ISLAND OF LONGBOAT KEY...

Plans for 2, 700 square foot house...

Call today for details..

Adult Care Services

Attorney

NEED PRIVATE CARE? FIL-AM PRIVATE DUTY HOME CARE LLC THE CARE THAT YOU CAN TRUST

WE OFFER PRIVATE IN-HOME CARE SERVICES PERSONAL CARE

PRE & POST SURGERY SERVICES

support@filamprivatedutyhomecare.com

LIDO BEACH GULF FRONT 1BR/1BA, WALK OUT THE DOOR AND ONTO THE BEACH. $2,500 FOR WEEK OF 5/20-5/27. SLEEPS 2-4.

941-720-0746 GREAT FINDS LOCATED HERE! LONGBOAT KEY: Beachfront Condos, 1st or 2nd floor, 2BR/2BA, W/D in units, free Wi-Fi, heated pool, & parking.

Call 941-383-3338.

Call me for a free 30 minute consultation before you call a Divorce Lawyer!

941-915-4588

We have mediated divorces involving up to 10 million dollars of assets over past 27 years.

Auto Service

SELL YOUR CAR!

William J. Leininger, JD

Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator 677 N. Washington Blvd Sarasota, FL 34236 SarasotaDivorceMediator.com 941-727-5555

FAST • EASY • SAFE

WE COME TO YOU

941.270.4400

HoHoBuysCars.com

5-Star Rated

GARAGE SALE

400678

Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals

941-730-3027

Divorce without Lawyers Divorce is never fun, but it does not have to be nasty & hateful! Protect your family relationships and assets from expensive Court litigation. Consider Divorce Mediation, the peaceful alternative.

ALZHEIMER/ DEMENTIA ASSISTANCE

BEYOND HOME SERVICE

auto

YourObserver.com/RedPages

©2023 NEA, Inc.

Jerry Cunningham 941-321-8848 shortstorieslongboatkey @gmail.com

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

941-809-3660, 941-809-3662.

CALL 941-955-4888

30211577 | 299995507

Carol Spiegel 941-323-6365

Autos Wanted

FIND LOTS OF BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

You’re only cheating yourself.

Houses or Condos

5360 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Suite

“Let's go Fishing” North Longboat Key

HIGH-END INTERIOR PAINTING WE ARE THE BEST!!!

Fully Insured.

CALL or TEXT Don 941-900-9398

Adult Care Services

Between

Visa/MC

Merchandise Wanted BUYING BASEBALL card collections! Looking to free up space and make $$? Need to sell sports cards? Collector looking to expand collection.

Pay top dollar. Text/call 941-548-6492 with photos.

Beachfront, Bayfront and In

wagnerlbkrentals@gmail.com

by jerry cunningham, jr

SARASOTA INTERIOR PAINTING

Advertise as low as $17.50 per week!

CALL 941-955-4888

401948

SAW HORSES $15/ea. Men’s golf shoes (8), $20. Convection oven $20. Portable “bag” chair $10. gpkoch1925@verizon.com

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

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

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.

SEASONAL RATES

Reservations 941-383-5577

Land for Sale

Auto Transport

peekers’ place

ADVERTISE YOUR MERCHANDISE with the total value of all items $200 or less in this section for FREE! Limit 1 ad per month,15 words or less. Price must be included next to each item. No commercial advertising.

Ad runs 2 consecutive weeks in 1 Observer.

Call 941-955-4888 Or Email ad to: classified@yourobserver.com (Please provide your name and address) Or Online at: www.yourobserver.com Or mail to: The Observer Group 1970 Main St. - 3rd Floor Sarasota, Fl 34236

WEEKLY MONTHLY

400679

Items Under $200

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

Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

real estate

stuff

CASH FOR YOUR CAR We come to you!

Ho Ho Buys cars.

941-270-4400.

Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals

home services

INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888

Autos Wanted

Painting

THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

Home Watch

Some Bunny Loves Their Customers!

Pinnacle Home Watch.com Stop Worrying About Your Home While Away

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

DRIES IN HOURS – NOT DAYS • SATISFACTION GUARANTEED

941-778-2882 • 941-387-0607

Painting

Dave and Connie Grundy

Serving AMI, LBK and Bradenton for 25 years

Like Us on Facebook

Doors

400675

CALL PINNACLE TODAY! 941-306-1999

400681

Check out our 5 Star Reviews on Google

SARASOTA INTERIOR PAINTING, LLC

High-End Interior Painting Services FULLY INSURED • OWNER OPERATED

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

401925

Carpet Cleaning

33

Personal Services

FIRST RESPONDER OWNED & OPERATED

“FIX IT - DON’T REPLACE”

(941)544-0475 dan@shorelockhomewatch.com

Insurance

941-504-0903

402338

Furniture Sales & Repairs Cushions • Slings • Re-powdercoating

FREE PICKUP / DELIVERY • FREE ONSITE QUOTES

Handyman

Kenneth Fuhlman Inc. Building & Roofing Contractor

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

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

KEENS HANDYMAN SERVICES INTERIOR RENOVATIONS & ANYTHING FROM THE GROUND UP

941-626-3194

Licensed & Insured CCC - 058059 CBC - 1253936

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

400671

TEXT OR CALL 574-354-7772 KEENS HANDYMAN SERVICES

EXPERIENCE KNOWLEDGE SOLUTIONS

Health

Home • Condo • Auto • Umbrella • Boat • Flood

GET YOUR LIFE BACK!

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

Give Us a Call - We Can Help

FREE CONSULTATION 941.358.2224 Recognized Among the Best Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Physicians in America Board Certified in the specialty of non-surgical spinal decompression

DR. DAVID CIFRA, DC

Windows Res./Com.

Form Serving Longboat Key Since 2005

BOOST YOUR BUSINESS

SPECIAL 00

Showcase your products or services each week in the Red Pages.

CALL 941-955-4888

Rest your mind & body. Connect with your spirit.

401362

401933

Chrissy Stites

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

5

$

MediCupping & Massage Therapy services for healing

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

$

INCLUDING SCREENS, TRACKS, MIRRORS & FANS

Heart & Sole Healing Space, LLC

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.com

ows

150

25

STANDARD WINDOWS

Massage

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

Lic./Ins.

& Pressure C Window lean t e s ing n s a S u n u n w r o i s n e k Wind S erly UP TO

RED PAGES

402345

Do You Have Neck or Low Back Pain?

Do You Want To Avoid Surgery?

400673

Patio Furniture Repairs.com

Roofing

LMT, CMCE

senior citizen discount. www.sunsetwindowcleaningsrq.com

Purified water window cleaning available!!

Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES | 941- 284 - 5880

401368

MIC INSURANCE

Furniture Repair

www.thewinwinservices.com

support@thewinwinservices.com

400674

www.shorelockhomewatch.com 400677

New Deluxe Rollers Will Make Your Doors Roll Better Than Ever Call Mark 928-2263 proslidingglassdoorrepair.com

400676

Sliding Glass Door Repair

CREATE BUZZ!

Advertise your business in the Red Pages. Call 941-955-4888

Insurance

SECUR-ALL INSURANCE AGENCY 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!

RED PAGES. MADE FOR WHERE YOU LIVE. HERE! TO ADVERTISE CALL 941-955-4888 OR VISIT YOUROBSERVER.COM/REDPAGES

400680

Sandra Smith | 941.383.3388

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

ROGER SELLS LUXURY WATERFRONT PROPERTIES #1 SARASOTA SINGLE AGENT 2012 - 2022

415 L’AMBIANCE DRIVE #PH-A

$12,000,000

97 SOUTH WASHINGTON DRIVE

Discover the finest penthouse in Sarasota at this gorgeous residence at L’Ambiance, only a few steps from the famed Longboat Key Club.

Spectacular views from the Gulf to the Bay, with recent designer updates throughout the 3BR, nearly 5,000 SF interior welcome you. A luxurious penthouse lifestyle that awaits.

Experience this stunning bayfront estate in person! Just a sunny walk from famed St. Armands Circle. Situated on two private lots in a corner location, spanning more than a half-acre, this impressive 5BR residence is set among lush, professionally managed greenery on the deep waters of Sarasota Bay.

www.415LAmbiancePHA.com

www.97SouthWashington.com

7652 SANDERLING ROAD - SIESTA KEY

$10,880,000

1172 HORIZON VIEW DRIVE - TURTLE BEACH

This spectacular Siesta Key beach home is a one-of-a-kind experience!

Directly overlooking the coastal landscape of the Gulf of Mexico, this private estate rests on more than an acre, with 172’ of beach! Designed to highlight the sparkling Gulf and striking sunset vistas you can enjoy from any room of this gorgeous beachfront estate.

Direct beachfront opportunities are a rarity on Siesta Key! This lovely beach home offers more than 100’ of water frontage and is waiting for you to add your custom touches, or move right in. The three leveled, nearly 4,000 SF of living space welcomes you with walls of glass, clean lines, cathedral ceilings, Olympic pool, and beach in the backyard.

www.7652Sanderling.com

www.1172HorizonView.com

3030 GRAND BAY BOULEVARD #346

$2,795,000

$11,500,000

3030 GRAND BAY BOULEVARD #316

$2,495,000

3040 GRAND BAY BOULEVARD #251

Move right in and begin enjoying the panoramic, direct views of Sarasota Bay, Harbourside golf course, Moorings Marina, and downtown abounding throughout this lovely 3BR, corner residence.

Prepare to be enchanted by the stunning views that await at this luxurious 2,925 SF, 3BR Grand Bay residence. This exquisite condominium offers the ultimate in elegant single-family living.

Sunny bay views welcome you to this 5thfloor Antigua residence, featuring a open concept, 3BR layout waiting for you to add your personal touches. Includes 2 deeded parking and private beach club access.

www.GrandBay346.com

www.GrandBay316.com

www.GrandBay251.com

217 BIRD KEY DRIVE

$1,999,999

201 NORTH WASHINGTON DRIVE

$2,195,000

173 CIPRIANI WAY

An ideal Bird Key lifestyle awaits at this charmingly updated, contemporary garden home. The 3BR layout encompasses nearly 2,500 SF. Just a sunny walk or bike ride from the bayfront Bird Key Park.

The walkable location of this St. Armands home will immediately draw you in. Ideally situated, offering an oversized, 1/4-acre lot for you to design your dream home. The best of Sarasota is a sunny bike ride away.

You will love the convenience of immediately enjoying this well-maintained home, with its sunny and open interior, 3BR plus den layout, and many resort-style amenities that residents relish.

www.217BirdKeyDrive.com

www.201NorthWashington.com

www.173CiprianiWay.com

$6,995,000

$2,495,000

$599,000

CALL TODAY FOR YOUR EXCLUSIVE TOUR (941) 387-1840 443 John Ringling Boulevard, Suite F | Sarasota, FL 34236 595 Bay Isles Road, Suite 250 | Longboat Key, FL 34228 Pettingell.com | www.bestSarasotarealestate.net Twitter.com/RealRoger | Instagram.com/RogerPettingell | Roger@Pettingell.com Owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC

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