Longboat Observer 6.15.23

LONGBOAT

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Observer

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Longboat Key’s weekly newspaper since 1978

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

FREE • THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

VOLUME 45, NO. 45

YOUR TOWN

What’s next for New College?

Interim college President Richard Corcoran shares his thoughts on the changes. SEE PAGE 6A

ONE OCEAN FOR ALL Mote Marine Lab & Aquarium drew 1,800 visitors to its Ocean Day celebration.

SEE PAGE 4B

‘Recycle Right’

Want to know what you can and can’t recycle?

The town of Longboat Key has stickers to put on your recycling bins as a reminder at Town Hall.

The stickers were provided

by Waste Management at the end of April after town staff reached out about wanting to better their recycling efforts.

The town program is entitled “Recycle Right” and originated with a group of residents hoping to better their recycling habits after the town’s goals and objectives workshop.

Homeowners or homeowners associations can pick up the stickers at Town Hall from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Small is beautiful

The month of June was officially proclaimed as “Small Cities Month” by the National League of Cities.

Longboat Key Mayor Ken Schneier read the proclamation at the June 5 commission meeting, and commissioner BJ Bishop accepted the proclamation as the town’s representative for the ManaSota League of Cities.

The proclamation considers a small city to be any city with a population of fewer than 50,000. Longboat Key fits the bill with a population of roughly 7,500.

During the month of June, the proclamation recognizes the importance of small cities throughout the country and encourages state and federal governments to support programs that help small cities.

“The majority of cities in Florida are small cities, and we have never been at a more dangerous time with the threat to our home-rule initiatives than we are now,” Bishop said.

“And continuing to educate our citizens on the importance of home rule and why they would much rather be dealing with us than having to go to Tallahassee to deal with their trash pickup.”

Turtle tracks LONGBOAT May 28-June 3 2023 Nests 84 False crawls 99

2022 140 94

Photos by Sidra Wali

Volunteer scuba diver Mark Fishman holds a Protect 30x30 campaign sign at Mote Laboratory and Aquarium’s Ocean Day event.

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Nested neighbors Sea turtle activity is up, and volunteers are doing their part to keep it that way.

SEE PAGE 3A

Totals since April 23 2023 2022 Nests 307 248 False crawls 363 233 Source: Mote Marine Laboratory

Carter Weinhofer

A recently marked sea turtle nest on Longboat Key

Love, comedy style.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

Photo by Lauren Tronstad

Finishing touches are being put on the town’s Karon Family Pavilion.

All but stage ready The Town Center Green stage is only a few finishing touches away from being complete.

The official grand opening for the stage will be celebrated Nov. 11 at 3 p.m. in conjunction with Veteran’s Day festivities once seasonal residents have had a chance to make their way back to their winter homes.

Construction on the Karon Family Pavilion started Nov. 7, 2022.

Paul and Sarah Karon are the primary donors for the stage, hence the naming rights, because the couple donated $500,000 to cover what was originally expected to be the full cost of the project.

The final total came to around $860,000. The remaining money was raised with the help of more than a dozen other individuals, largely

LAUREN TRONSTAD STAFF WRITER

T

he Town Center Green stage is nearly ready to be deemed complete.

All that’s left are a few finishing touches and the installation of an electrical panel, the delivery of which has been delayed, but the stage should be complete in July or August.

through the efforts of the Longboat Key Foundation.

The rest of the money was raised quickly. After receiving the bid from Jon F. Swift Construction, the town had 10 days to gather up the remaining funding. It only took nine.

The foundation helped coordinate private fundraising for the 50-footwide permanent stage between the Public Tennis Center and the Shoppes of Bay Isles.

Without the donations, the town still had plans to move forward with the remainder of the project and simply take the stage out of the plans.

The pavilion is part of the latest phase of improvements to the Town

Center Green, a formerly undeveloped plot of land, a corner of which was once home to the Amore restaurant.

The entire site covers about 4.81 acres. The town purchased the three parcels that complete the total site for about $3.7 million in 2017.

Site work for the town center is town-funded with about $530,000, which includes $445,000 from the town’s land-acquisition fund. Work includes raising and regrading the site with fill. Additional stormwater infrastructure will be installed to accommodate site work and with accommodations for future buildings, which might someday include a library or community center that is part of the Sarasota County system.

The town’s portion is funding walkways, streetlights, landscaping and space for food trucks.

Next up on the docket are plans for a community center in partnership with Sarasota County.

Over the past few years, the town has been advocating for a community center and a library to be a focal point for the development of the Town Center Green. During the town’s joint meeting with the Sarasota County Commission in April 2022, the town requested the County Commission consider monetarily supporting the construction of the library.

The county ended up setting aside $1 million of its fiscal year 2023 budget to advance the planning and design of the proposal.

The county has indicated that because the library would be a county facility, it would take responsibility for design, construction, operation and maintenance of the facility.

As it stands, the community center is planned to include a core library circulation component, reading and meeting rooms and a large multipurpose space.

Under the agreement, the town will have the ability to weigh in on elements it would like to see included in the center. All planning and design phases would go through the town’s review process, as well.

As planning and design moves forward, both commissions intend to include residents in the process as their input will have great importance on the outcome of the project and its services.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

Nesting numbers rising Photos by Carter Weinhofer

Longboat Key Turtle Watch volunteers Connie Schindewolf and Caleb Jameson measure the distance between a sea turtle nest and vegetation. .

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Longboat has seen high numbers of sea turtle nests in the first month of the season. If not for the combined efforts of volunteers and public policy, hatchlings may live a more difficult life.

STAFF WRITER

ZONE B

T

.

A LONG JOURNEY

Longboat Key Turtle Watch is permitted under Mote Marine Laboratory, where the research is based.

Melissa Macksey has been the Sea Turtle Conservation manager with the program since 2018.

“We’re off to a really good start this year,” Macksey said.

However, Macksey warned that it’s still too early to tell how the season will go. Things could plateau or drop off at any point, according to Macksey. She said that warming waters have been altering nesting seasons over time due to the many cues sea turtles depend on in their nesting season.

Sea turtles use cues to determine much of their behavior, especially when it comes to reproduction. When the temperature starts to warm, they know that it is time to migrate back to their nesting grounds, find a mate and then nest.

But with global temperatures on the rise, increasingly warmer waters have led to early nesting seasons.

“They’re very complicated animals and there’s a whole bunch of stuff going into it, but the warmer waters do seem to be shifting the season earlier,” Macksey said.

Tracking the true number of nests laid also comes with caveats. Sea turtles could lay anywhere from four to eight nests in a single season. On top of that, many species take years off in between nesting, according to Macksey.

Once the eggs are laid, the turtles are completely on their own. The hatchlings receive no parental care to help guide them past beach chairs and toward the brightest horizon.

In fact, they won’t even know their father. That’s one aspect “Finding Nemo” got wrong, Macksey said.

“They are counting on not being completely overrun by predators and for those beaches to be dark,” Macksey said.

Inland lighting can be a real problem, Macksey said. The hatchlings

will travel toward the brightest horizon, which naturally should be the ocean. But, if the lights on shore are too bright, the turtles might travel in the wrong direction. This wastes what little energy the hatchlings have coming from their yolk sac, a membrane that provides the embryo with nutrients prior to hatching.

This energy is essential for their trip out to the ocean for about three days until reaching safety in the ocean’s “seaweed line.” The hatchlings spend most of their juvenile life in this natural floating sargassum, using it as a refuge to eat and to hide from predators.

Hatchlings need to make it to the water by sunrise. If they lose their way and aren’t found in time by volunteers like those of the Longboat Key Turtle Watch, the hatchlings may dry out and die, according to Macksey.

Ordinances like the ones spelled out in Longboat Key’s Chapter 100 — Marine Turtle Protection aim to give the turtles the best chance at survival. Turning off unnecessary artificial lights after sunset or using turtle-safe lighting is necessary during the nesting season. Additionally, any holes made on the beach must be filled, and beach chairs must be stored and out of the way during nesting hours.

Code Enforcement Officer David Woods said the city received 127 infraction notifications from May 1 to June 10. Of those, 75 were lighting violations and 52 were because of obstructions on the beach. The process, he said, begins with a courtesy warning but could lead to the special magistrate for a court hearing if the infractions recur. Woods frequently goes on what he calls “turtle patrol,” either after sunset or before sunrise to check for potential infractions.

Ensuring the survival of these turtles is crucial, especially for loggerheads, according to Macksey. The southeast United States is home to the largest population of loggerhead turtles in the world. Of that population, 90% of the individuals nest in Florida, Macksey said.

Longboat Key Turtle Watch hosts free public turtle walk events every Saturday morning at 6:45 a.m. until the end of July. These events begin at 4795 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

Z ONE D

After four decades of volunteering, Schindewolf is able to see how their work can make a large impact.

“The most rewarding part is knowing that you may not just be saving a turtle, but that you might be influencing a whole population,” Schindewolf said.

ZONE C

A diagram must be drawn of every nest that is marked, like the one that Schindewolf is looking at.

GULF OF MEXICO DR.

he sun peeked through the horizon just before 6:45 a.m., providing backlight for the Turtle Watch volunteers and spectators gathered at the 4795 Gulf of Mexico Drive beach access. Cool wind whipped from the ocean and over the dunes, bringing with it the smell of saltwater.

Connie Schindewolf and her team were on the beach an hour before the first turtle walk event on June 4. She has been volunteering with Longboat Key Turtle Watch since 1983.

Schindewolf often works alongside the Jameson family during these mornings. They are also volunteers with Longboat Key Turtle Watch and the youngest, Caleb, just graduated high school. He has been volunteering with the organization since he was 8 years old.

The four of them patrol Zone D and mark the previous night’s nests before the actual turtle watch event begins. Their zone covers about oneand-a-half miles, and Longboat Key Turtle Watch’s full coverage area spans a little more than four miles, from Greer Island to the Sarasota County line. Mote Marine Laboratory covers the rest of Longboat Key in Sarasota County.

“We usually have something,” she said as she began her introduction to the morning’s crew. With this year’s nesting season, that would be a safe bet.

Nesting season officially began on May 1. As of June 3, the total number of nests on Longboat Key was 307.

At that same time in 2022, the total nests on Longboat was 248. The year before that, it was 165.

On June 4 they recorded seven activities in their zone. Activities include both nests and false crawls, which are events when a turtle crawls up the beach but does not actually lay eggs. Schindewolf recalls the highest number of activities she’s ever seen in one day was 23, while Caleb said he has seen 28.

At the nest closest to the start of the walk, Caleb began labeling stakes with nest info as Schindewolf talked to the audience. Brenda Jameson, Caleb’s mother, took GPS coordinates of the nest and drew a diagram of the location and turtle tracks. The four stakes were then driven into the sand, making a square over the nest.

When the talk is over and the nest is properly tracked, the audience is dismissed. Schindewolf and the Jamesons are then responsible for marking the remaining nests in their zone. With their combined experience, tracking seven activities was like clockwork. Brenda and her husband took one end of the zone while Schindewolf and Caleb handled the other.

ICO D R GU LF OF MEX

CARTER WEINHOFER

Shore Longboat Key

Zota Beach Resort

LONGBOAT KEY TURTLE WATCH PATROL ZONES

Every morning during nesting season, volunteers with the Longboat Key Turtle Watch must patrol the beach from Greer Island to the Sarasota county line. Each of the four zones covers about two miles that groups of volunteers walk to look for signs of nests or false crawls.

Zone A: 100 Broadway St. to Greer Island channel side Zone B: 6399 Gulfside Road to 6951 Gulf of Mexico Drive Zone C: 5231 Gulf of Mexico Drive to 6385 Gulfside Road Zone D: 4141 Gulf of Mexico Drive to 5211 Gulf of Mexico Drive

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

File photo

Nancy and Todd Roberts’ dog Biscuit was decked out in Fourth of July attire in the 2021 parade.

Two decades of Freedom Fest Longboat’s annual Freedom Fest brings ‘shortest parade in America.’

CARTER WEINHOFER

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This year, the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce celebrates its 20th annual Freedom Fest celebration.

As usual, the Fourth of July celebration will kick off at 9 a.m. on Bay Isles Road, adjacent to town hall.

At the start of the fest will be the butterfly release, sponsored by the Longboat Key Garden Club. Children can receive a small packet containing a butterfly and release it to officially begin the festival.

Immediately following the butterfly release the parade will start, running from Truist Bank on Bay Isles Road to Town Hall.

“I look forward to the parade. The parade has taken on kind of a legendary status, because we do call it the

Shortest Parade in America,” said Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce President Gail Loefgren.

Loefgren encouraged anyone who wants to join the parade with any four-wheel vehicle to reach out to the Chamber of Commerce at 941383-2466.

Loefgren said the two-hour event will provide a lot of fun for kids. A clown, face painting, a balloon artist and “Uncle Sam” will all make an appearance.

For the furry friends, the Rotary Club of Longboat Key hosts the Hot Diggity Dog contest. Prizes will be given out for categories like most patriotic dog, most creative dog costume and best owner and dog combination.

“It’s just cool to see the community gather and to have the chamber be able to present such a fun Fourth of July,” Loefgren said.

Traditionally, a grand marshal for the parade is chosen. Last year’s grand marshal was Lisa Walsh, one of the founders of Freedom Festival and vice president of the Observer Media Group. At the time of publication, Loefgren said a grand marshal for 2023 had not yet been chosen.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

Winter Spectacular won’t return to St. Armands Circle The promoters of the inaugural Winter Spectacular have pulled the plug on a repeat in 2023.

ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER

T

he Winter Spectacular 2023 in St. Armands Circle will not take place.

In a letter to Sarasota city officials, Jeff and David Koffman of Ride Entertainment of Sarasota wrote that a reprise of the 2022 event will not be held.

“We are disappointed that, as a result of the loud voices of a minority of citizens, the potential and purpose of Winter Spectacular ’23 will not be realized and is still mired in contentiousness,” they wrote. “It seems that our efforts to continue down the path of bringing back the Winter Spectacular for this coming holiday season will only be divisive by these same loud minority voices and thus negate the true meaning of the holiday season and the purpose of the festival.”

There may have been more to it than that.

The city invited merchants and residents of St. Armands and Longboat Key to submit their comments about the six-week event. Of the 331 emails received, between May 5 and June 2, 307 were against a repeat, 19 were supportive and five were neutral.

“My sense is that residents are thrilled,” said Chris Goglia, president of the St. Armands Residents Association. Goglia was a staunch opponent of the Winter Spectacular, which placed him at odds with Tom Leonard, owner of Shore restaurant and chairman of the St. Armands Business Improvement District Board of Directors. Leonard part-

nered with Ride Entertainment to bring the event to St. Armands, but as a private business owner and not on behalf of the BID. Goglia argued before city officials at the time that closing circle park — state-owned land managed by the city — for a for-profit enterprise was illegal, and that the free, less intense events traditionally held around the holidays in the circle were more appropriate for a public space.

“Our first priority when proposing the Winter Spectacular ’22 was to create a memorable, unifying and joyous experience for all of Sarasota during the holiday season,” wrote the Koffmans in their letter. “We had over 20,000 happy residents and visitors that greatly enjoyed the festival.”

In February, the event promoters were back before the City Commission seeking a permit for a sequel, describing the 2022 event as a rousing success. Commissioners tabled the discussion, instructing staff to gather more data before determining whether to proceed.

Jeff Koffman and Leonard pitched the Winter Spectacular last year, they told commissioners, to highlight the new holiday tree paid for by the city to replace the 20-year-old tree that was no longer functional. The plan was supported by some residents and merchants during hearings and opposed by others over concerns about additional traffic and private use of public space.

It was also opposed by then-St. Armands Merchants Association Executive Director Rachel Burns, who told commissioners she would be forced to cancel some annual holi-

File photo

A synthetic ice skating rink was one of the attractions at the 2022 St. Armands Circle Winter Spectacular.

day season events long produced by the merchants group to accommodate the festival.

Among those events was the 44th annual tree lighting — Holiday Night of Lights — which Burns said she was forced to cancel because she could not safely accommodate the crowd in limited space unoccupied by the festival.

Burns said she is already at work to bring back the traditional tree lighting, Porsches in the Park and other December events. She has stepped down as executive director of the circle association because of her application to serve on the St. Armands BID board and now serves as marketing and events director.

“I already spoke with the city events department, and there are no other conflicting permits or applications,” Burns said. “I wanted to make sure before I jump in that I wasn’t going have the same issue as

last year, where I lost deposits and I had to call people. We’re going to have Porsches in the Park again, and we’re also going to be doing activities on the weekends.

“Because of the city events ordinance I can’t do full-fledged events, but I can reserve the park for activities. They’re going to be smaller scale, but we’re going to have more going on that will be free for the public to enjoy.”

Weeks before Leonard and Burns were publicly at odds over the use of the circle park during the holidays, the pair successfully lobbied the City Commission for a replacement of the tree last fall. Commissioners approved their $286,000 grant request, which included installation of the 60-foot tree and storage for one year.

Burns joined Goglia in arguing that a for-profit use of public park space is inappropriate and that the circle

association board, which she represents, was opposed to the festival.

Commissioners sided with Leonard and Ride Entertainment, agreeing that the Winter Spectacular presented an opportunity to highlight the investment in a city tree, although it is owned by the St. Armands Circle Association.

“It was pretty torn with the merchants. There were a lot of newer merchants who were very optimistic, and there were merchants who had been around for a long time who weren’t optimistic,” Burns said. “I can’t fault them for wanting to try something new,” she added of the Koffmans and Leonard. “We never know what’s going to work and what’s not. I don’t see it as they failed. They gave it an effort, and I think that what they want to do may fit somewhere else in Sarasota.”

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

College try No stranger to stirring things up, Richard Corcoran goes all in on transforming a liberal arts college.

MARK GORDON BUSINESS OBSERVER

D

uring Richard Corcoran’s eight years in Florida electoral politics, including a stint as Florida House Speaker, he worked fast and went bold. A fitting strategy for a father of six comfortable quoting Steve Jobs and Winston Churchill in the same conversation.

As Florida Speaker in 2017 and 2018, Corcoran, among other battles, led moves to significantly shrink the budgets of Enterprise Florida and Visit Florida — jobs and tourism agencies championed by then Gov. Rick Scott. The political titans, both Republicans, got into some punchy verbal squabbles back then. Scott questioned Corcoran’s motives.

Others considered it a typical Tallahassee power play.

In a January 2017 interview with the Business Observer, Corcoran said the arrows were worth it because he was taking on the status quo. “They teach you in law school,” he said, “that when you’re right, pound the facts, and when you’re wrong, pound the table.”

Corcoran, now interim president at New College of Florida in Sarasota, is again going fast and thinking bold. And again his positions have led to factions. The New College board appointed Corcoran to the interim position Jan. 31, replacing President Patricia Okker, who was fired.

The hiring of Corcoran, who was Florida Education Secretary under Gov. Ron DeSantis from 2018 to 2021, came three weeks after the governor launched a major transformation — some critics called it a hostile takeover — of New College.

Fresh off his big gubernatorial election victory, DeSantis named seven new board members in ear-

ly January and tasked them with reshaping New College. “In Florida, we will build off of our higher education reforms by aligning core curriculum to the values of liberty and the Western tradition, eliminating politicized bureaucracies like DEI, increasing the amount of research dollars for programs that will feed key industries with talented Florida students and empowering presidents and boards of trustees to recruit and hire new faculty, including by dedicating record resources for faculty salaries,” DeSantis said in a statement.

DeSantis backed his words with Florida’s wallet: He proposed $15 million to “overhaul and restructure” New College, “including support for student’s scholarships and hiring faculty.” The Legislature approved the proposal in the most recent state budget.

NOT FINE New College, on 110 acres directly on Sarasota Bay, was founded in 1960.

It’s since had a mostly triumphant, yet occasionally tortured 63-year run. In 1975, it joined the state university system as part of USF. In July 2001, it became independent and was designated by the Legislature as Florida’s Honors College.

U.S. News & World Report consistently ranks New College as a top five public liberal arts college nationwide.

And it’s made multiple best values in college lists going back to the 1990s.

The school, which requires a senior capstone/thesis and doesn’t give traditional grades, offers more than 50 undergraduate majors in arts, humanities and sciences; a master’s degree program in data science; and certificates in technology, finance, and business skills.

Yet Florida Rep. Randy Fine, R-Palm Bay, proposed a bill in 2020

Courtesy photo

Richard Corcoran was named interim president of New College of Florida earlier this year.

that would have folded both New College and Florida Polytechnic in Lakeland into the University of Florida. Fine and others at the time contended New College costs too much per student and wasn’t producing enough graduates going into high-paying jobs. (On the flip side, New College is tops in the nation for percentage of graduates who go on to earn doctorates.) Fine’s bill ultimately failed.

Looming over the platitudes and political salvos are five consecutive years of a drop in the already small student population. New College’s enrollment, according to data from the school, dropped from 885 in 2016 to 659 in 2021 — a decline of 24.65% and the lowest number in at least 20 years. (Student enrollment ticked up slightly, by 30 students, in 2022.)

Corcoran, who said he is applying to be named official president by the board, likens the New College transformation to turnarounds other organizations have to go through to survive. Find the biggest problems,

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devise a strategy to fix them and execute the strategy.

“Like the keys to real estate are location, location, location, the keys to building a liberal arts school that survives is enrollment, enrollment, enrollment,” said Corcoran. “And the more competitive your enrollment, the greater the quality of your student.”

Corcoran is in the execution phase of his plan, which by one metric is working: He projects total enrollment for the 2023 freshman class will be at least 260 students and set a New College first-year student enrollment record.

WITH HONORS Corcoran is in strategy execution mode against a voiceful opposition.

That’s particularly true on social media, where even benign posts on New College’s official public Facebook page about a student winning an award quickly overflow with antiDeSantis and anti-Corcoran comments. And in the first month or so

of his tenure as interim president, national media publications, from CNN and Fox News to the Washington Post and New York Times, sent teams of reporters to Sarasota to cover the changes — often presented in an unflattering light.

In addition, a few groups have formed to counter — or in the words of one organizer, to be a watchdog over the board — Corcoran and how the new funding will be spent. Jono Miller, who attended New College in the 1970s, met his wife there and later taught classes and coordinated the school’s environmental studies program, has been active on social media regarding the changes.

Miller is also president of a group called NCF Freedom, which he said monitors both the board and Corcoran. His and NCF Freedom’s concerns, he said in an interview with the Business Observer, include questions about academic freedom and the school’s governance structure, which previously included faculty in some decisions. He worries both are being eroded — and that’s happening too fast and under a culture of fear.

“Maybe (Corcoran) is under pressure from DeSantis to get results,” said Miller, a longtime environmental activist who ran as a Democrat for Sarasota County Commission in 2008. “But to move as fast as he has, for a liberal arts college trying to be best in class, is very problematic.

There are 1,000 ways a liberal arts college can fail and a few ways for it to work well.”

STAY POSITIVE Dressed in blue khakis, a pink golf polo shirt and Hoka sneakers, Corcoran, in a rare one-on-one interview in late May, spoke to the Business Observer about his ideas for New College and more. Edited excerpts: Problems specific to New College Corcoran believes New College has lost its way — something even some alumni, he adds, have recognized.

Corcoran said when he was in the Legislature, in 2015, New College received an “infusion of $7 million to add more faculty to have growth.”

“And the promise was, if you give us this money, you give us the capacity, go out and get these other great professors, we can grow enrollment

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

to 1,200 (students). But instead of going from 800 to 1,200, they went from 800 to 690. For lack of a better term, it is somewhat of a death spiral. And I think the way you get out of that death spiral, and this is what I think the governor was saying, was you have to have a new vision and a new mission, one that people can understand.”

HILLSDALE COLLEGE COMPARISON The changes at New College of Florida are often compared to the model at Hillsdale College in Hillsdale, Michigan, west of Ann Arbor.

Hillsdale, according to its website, is “a small, Christian, classical liberal arts college in southern Michigan that operates independently of government funding,” with students who “grow in heart and mind by studying timeless truths in a supportive community dedicated to the highest things.”

New College Interim President Richard Corcoran embraces the comparison — to a point. He wants to go bigger, reasoning that if Hillsdale can build “a tremendous branded liberal arts school,” in a small, cold-weather town, then New College can do it, too, and better.

Student diversity “We’re changing the culture because the culture is not healthy,” he said.

“There’s very limited diversity on this campus. And that would be echoed by faculty; it would be echoed by other students. I think the female to male ratio is probably more than 70% female and 30% male.”

Corcoran projects Black and Hispanic student enrollment will rise in the 2023-24 academic year. “All of these things are real diversity. And when I say we’re going to increase African American enrollment, we’re going to increase Hispanic enrollment, I’m not saying much because the enrollment of those two groups at New College has been abysmally below national levels.”

Student retention Corcoran said he’s met a few times with Ringling College of Art & Design President Larry Thompson, who has led an enrollment resurgence at the school down the road from New College. A key takeaway from those conversations: provide students activities outside of academics, or in higher-ed lingo, co-curriculars.

New College is doing that, including a budding sports program and a new mascot, the Mighty Banyan. “You add extracurriculars, sports, those types of activities,” Corcoran said.

“That’s the quickest, easiest way we’ve implemented something that allows us to grow.”

Room and board “If you look at exit interviews on why kids left New College,” he said, “it’s pretty much in (this) order: housing, food and cancel culture. We can fix all three.”

The first two fixes, he said, are underway. New dorms are a few years off, but the current facilities will have new air conditioners, elevators, carpets and more by the fall.

7A

Make

A Plan.

The school also increased its food services contract by $500,000 and added a cafe.

Significantly more polarizing than food and beds is cancel culture — a fast-changing dynamic that can carry different definitions depending on your politics or philosophy. “I think you just have to treat every student, regardless of their background, race, anything, with human dignity.

And you don’t see that here.”

Corcoran cites board of trustee meetings as an example, where students, faculty and others have shouted down speakers. “Some of the stuff they’re saying is vulgar. Some of the stuff they’re saying is vitriolic … and that’s going to change. That won’t be tolerated.”

On critics “The criticisms will never stop, because the criticisms are not about trying to make New College the best liberal arts college in the country; the criticisms are about ‘We want our culture, and we want you to go away.’

And we’re not going away.”

“My mom was British, and I quote (Winston) Churchill a lot. Churchill said: ‘You will never reach your destination if you stop and throw stones at every dog that barks.’ Ignore the barking dogs.”

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

OPINION / OUR VIEW

LONGBOAT

Irony of St. Regis garage While the St. Regis Hotel & Residences clearly stands out in size and scale, Longboat commissioners say a two-story garage would harm the town.

Really?

“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 Courtesy rendering

Rendering of a completed St. Regis Hotel & Residences.

ago with the opening of the RitzCarlton Hotel and Residences.

You can be sure the St. Regis will have the same effect.

OUT OF SCALE & CHARACTER?

MATT WALSH

T

his is classic Longboat Key and classic Sarasota. It never changes, and probably never will. Plus, the irony of it all is rich and worth a laugh.

This is the nature of new development in Florida: People don’t like it when it’s close to their home. It drives them to go on the attack — to defend what they have and not let others have what they want.

For the residents close to the proposed development, we know this is serious stuff. But if you’ve watched this region and Florida grow and grow and grow (and will continue to grow) over the decades, it’s like watching sitcom reruns.

The actors change, but the characters don’t — cranky neighbors opposing the development, packing Town Hall, delivering stern and passionate pleadings of doom and outrage, or flooding their elected commissioners with fiery letters and emails. There is the developer portrayed as a plaid-jacketed, greedy, duplicitous carpetbagger.

The developer’s lawyers, whom the opposition views as slick and full of legal blather. And the elected commissioners — stewards of the community, but also politicians who want to be liked and reelected.

The story lines are always the same, too: The neighbors say the proposed development is too big or too ugly and is going to ruin the neighborhood and the residents’ lives.

The only thing unpredictable is the ending: Who wins, who loses.

This show is underway simultaneously in Longboat Key and Sarasota, albeit different episodes.

In classic, picayune Longboat fashion, the issue is the garage — a proposed two-story garage for the St. Regis Hotel & Residences.

In the city of Sarasota, the issue is a proposed 18-story condominium — the Obsidian, slated for a tight patch of North Palm Avenue that would dwarf the historic Bay Plaza condominiums and become downtown’s tallest building.

Each is emblematic of what everyone in this region should realize is unavoidable and unstoppable: More people will be moving here, and more developments are coming.

Affluent and wealthy baby boomers have discovered Sarasota, the barrier islands and Lakewood Ranch. So if you thought you found a quaint paradise that would stay how it was when you bought your piece of it, sorry, you’re going to be disappointed.

But rather than be fearful and resentful toward new development and to think it is going to ruin your life, flip the coin. That two-story garage and that 18-story condominium slated for Palm Avenue can and will bring more good things to this region than bad things. History has shown it.

Two examples: n Unequivocal catalysts to Longboat Key’s flourishing over the past 50 years were the Colony Beach and Tennis Resort and the Longboat Key Club and Resort. Scores of Longboaters tell the stories of their parents and families vacationing there and later becoming full- or part-time residents. n In downtown Sarasota, the catalyst for the current boom in luxury high-rises came 22 years

This is just too rich with irony.

The Longboat Key Town Commission on June 5 spent six hours listening to the town planner; lawyers and architects for Unicorp Developments; a lawyer for a homeowners association; and 11 residents testifying on the pros and (mostly) cons of whether to allow Unicorp to construct a 156-space, 16,000-square-foot, two-story parking garage on the northeast corner of the St. Regis development.

Every facet of it became a target of scrutiny and criticism — how fast the trees would grow to hide it; whether cars’ headlights would shine in the windows of Bay Isles Harbor residents’ homes; the noise from car engines starting and doors slamming. Nothing was too nitpicky.

In the end, the commission voted 6-0 against the garage, in short because commissioners all agreed it would be too big, violate the character of Longboat Key, is not needed and would harm nearby neighbors and all Longboaters driving past it on Gulf of Mexico Drive.

Hilarious.

All the while, you couldn’t help but think of the obvious: That garage would sit in the shadows of three five-story condominium buildings with 69 units and a 166room St. Regis Hotel containing: n Four restaurants n Lobby lounge and St. Regis bar n Terrace bar n Ballrooms n Meeting rooms and board rooms n Beach grill n Beach Monkey Bar n Event lawn n Swimming pools n Saltwater lagoon n Residents amenity building n Private residents swimming pool The place is massive. And that’s without a garage.

Town commissioners approved that development in 2018 and 2021, concerned about whether it would be out of scale for Longboat Key (which, one could argue, it clearly is), but they were eager to replace the Colony and fill its scruffy, vacant lot.

And yet, that garage (whose 16,000 square feet, by the way, would total only one third of an acre on the 17.6-acre site), well, that garage, if approved, would be forever devastating to the town and its residents.

Really?

EYE OF THE BEHOLDER

At the end of last week’s meeting, Mayor Ken Schneier read a thorough, six-point rationale for his opposing the garage. Taken from standards required in a planned unit development, Schneier referred to his six points as “tests” the garage plans must meet.

The six points are worth sharing here. As you read them, think of whether the entire St. Regis project, including the proposed garage, would pass the tests: 1) “Preserve and enhance the character of the town by ensuring that the location, density, intensity and character of land uses.”

2) “Maintain an environment that is conducive to the health, safety welfare and property values of the community.”

3) “Protect the visual and esthetic character of neighborhoods, including open space.”

4) “In the case of (planned unit development) approvals, preserve the natural and scenic qualities of

Matt Walsh

Recent view of the area where the garage would be.

open space.”

5) “In the case of departures that they be no less consistent with the health, safety and welfare of abutting landowners and the general public than the standard from which the departure is requested.

And, the departure adequately protects against adverse impacts to adjacent parcels and the surrounding area.”

6) “In the case of site plan approvals to be considered, the manner in which the design enhances the amenities of light and air, recreation and visual enjoyment and the relationship for the proposed plan, beneficial or adverse, to the neighborhood in which it is proposed to be established.”

First, the answers to all of these tests are subjective — in the eyes of the beholders. Second, it’s likely true that commissioners and many of the residents opposed to the garage made their judgments on the basis of the plans they read and what they see today on the St. Regis site. As Unicorp lawyer Brenda Patten said, the massive, half-constructed concrete buildings “look intimidating.” They look like an unfinished penitentiary.

No one can really know or imagine at this point how everything will come together and/or blend in with the surrounding properties until the project is complete and operating.

It’s a reasonable guess, but based on renderings.

If ever there was a time to use AI, the Unicorp team would have benefited from a life-like video simulation of a completed St. Regis, with garage and a sampling of what a typical day and night would be like.

And while the commission was being asked to consider the garage in isolation as an amendment to the overall St. Regis plan, it also makes sense to put the proposed garage in context — how it fits into the overall project.

Context matters.

Unfortunately, it did not at last week’s meeting.

In the end, Mayor Schneier’s prepared comments summed up the view of his fellow commissioners and the 254 Longboaters who spoke or expressed in a letter or email their opposition to the garage: Schneier: “The consensus is (the St. Regis project) is really big, but it’s going to be great. But the envelope can only be pushed so far, and the proposed parking garage exceeds that limit. It’s too big, and it’s too close (to Gulf of Mexico Drive) and would consume too much open space, too much territory. It would loom over the nearest neighborhood and our main road.”

That is his and their opinion. We agree with his first statement, not the rest.

OTHER KEY CONSIDERATIONS n It is his and Marriott’s business;

let them run it as they see fit.

A repeated argument against the garage was Unicorp did not present a compelling need for additional parking spaces.

Unicorp CEO Chuck Whittall said in a video what he told The Observer last month: Based on post-pandemic travel patterns to Florida, he and St. Regis/Marriott executives have a strong belief the hotel is going to be more successful than originally expected.

What’s more, also based on the ineffectiveness and inefficiency of car lifts at the St. Regis in Bal Harbor in Dade County, they are skeptical the car lifts will allow the hotel to live up to customers’ expectations of a five-star hotel.

Put it this way: Clearly, Whittall and Marriott see the garage as a bet on the future. It’s a business decision and an investment in the future. Build the garage now even if it means excess capacity early on.

Better to have more capacity than to be unable to give customers what they expect.

Surely, most of the retired Longboat Key business executives can identify with that kind of business planning. n “You can build it later if it’s needed.”

Ha. Imagine a fully functioning St. Regis and the disruptions that would come with the construction of a parking garage. No smart CEO would make that choice over building a garage now — when the site is there, construction crews are working and the resort is still under construction. n The garage actually would serve as a buffer for the residents of Bay Isles Harbor.

They should watch out what they wish for. Without the garage, those Bay Isles Harbor residents closest to the St. Regis are sure to hear and see the constant clanging and rumble of big truck rigs delivering food and hauling away garbage.

As you drive by the St. Regis site, you can’t miss looking at what will be the back-end loading docks and utility center of the resort.

Which would you rather see: a well-shrouded garage with the inaudible hum of EVs or the daily parade of Waste Management and Sysco rigs? n Compromise makes sense.

As noted earlier, context matters.

We’re guessing most Longboat residents would agree that a cordial, healthy, mutually beneficial relationship between the town leadership and Unicorp’s owner is in everyone’s best interest.

No one wants what existed before. Longtime residents remember one of the character traits of the late Colony owner Murf Klauber: He was litigious. In fact, he won $14 million from the town in a federal lawsuit in the late 1990s.

It seems obvious, then, when the Town Commission meets June 20 for a second reading on the St. Regis garage, it would behoove everyone to settle on a compromise — a garage smaller than the one proposed.

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 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

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9A

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

Former state attorney dissects DeSantis’ policies

To Dads Everywhere...

Enjoy Your Father’s Day!

The Longboat Democratic Club welcomed Andrew Warren as the June 6 guest speaker. He discussed his suspension and the governor’s recent actions.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

F

Andrew Warren was a state attorney representing Hillsborough County until his suspension in August 2022.

He recently spoke at the Longboat Key Democratic Club’s June event.

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A big portion of Warren’s talk was his analysis of the legislation passed

by DeSantis that Warren claims infringes on the First Amendment.

He listed the Combating Public Disorder Act, Parental Rights in Education Bill and the Stop the Wrongs to Our Kids and Employees Act as a few examples. Warren also provided examples that he said demonstrate how DeSantis has “defied” democracy, citing a variety of laws that he claims made it more difficult for Floridians to vote.

Lastly, Warren criticized what he called DeSantis’ “immigration stunts,” referencing the governor’s decision to fly migrants from Texas to Martha’s Vineyard. He claimed that DeSantis could potentially face criminal liability.

A 15-minute question-andanswer session followed Warren’s main talk. Audience members typed questions in the virtual chat, which were asked by Lucie Lapovsky, chair of the club.

The Democratic Club’s next meeting will be another free Zoom event on July 11 at noon. It will feature Emily Brown, an immigration attorney who will speak about current issues related to U.S. immigration law. More information about the event can be found at LBKDems.com/Events.

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941-778-5622

Courtesy photo

0000278608-01

ormer Hillsborough County state attorney Andrew Warren is still suspended for speaking out against Gov. Ron DeSantis in August 2022.

He spoke at the Longboat Key Democratic Club’s June 6 meeting.

The meeting took place via Zoom, drawing a virtual crowd of almost 90. In Warren’s 30-minute talk, he dissected recent legislation from DeSantis and talked about why he feels the issues are pressing in a larger context.

“This litigation with the governor has always been about more than me,” Warren said.

Warren was suspended in August 2022 after signing a public statement in June 2022 against the prosecution of abortion. According to Warren, he was working a trial when he was officially suspended by way of armed security guards escorting him out of his office.

“The governor will tell you I was suspended because I refused to enforce the law,” Warren said. “The problem is, it’s simply not true.”

Warren’s talk began with an explanation of his suspension. He said after months of litigation and a three-day trial, a judge in Tallahassee ruled that the allegations against Warren were not true and that Warren did exactly what he was elected to do. Most importantly, according to Warren, was that the judge said DeSantis broke state and federal laws on suspending him.

The case between Warren and DeSantis is still pending with no way to tell if Warren will be reinstated.

“I want to get back to the job I was elected to do,” Warren said.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

COPS CORNER

FATHER’S DAY Weekend Special!

FRIDAY, JUNE 2

SATURDAY, JUNE 3

QUIET DOWN 1:40 a.m., 600 block of Marbury Lane Noise complaints from land: Officers responded to a noise complaint and heard loud music from a nearby residence. They met with the homeowner and explained there was a complaint. The owner turned down the music without incident.

MORE PRIVATE BEACH CHAIRS 2:17 p.m., 1000 block of Longboat Club Road Suspicious person: An officer responded to a call about a group of beachgoers using privately owned beach chairs. Upon arrival, the officer observed the group in question leaving the beach. He spoke with one of the individuals, who said they were staying at a nearby home and were allowed to use those chairs.

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SUNDAY, JUNE 4

TOO LATE TO PARK 1:15 a.m., 6000 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Suspicious vehicle: An officer was conducting a business check at the above the officer observed a suspicious vehicle in the parking lot. The driver’s side door was open and the driver was sitting in the seat. The officer spoke with the driver. The

FOR DADS AND GRANDADS!

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NOT A BURGLARY 5:35 p.m., 6100 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Alarm: Police were sent to a residence on report of an active burglary alarm. Upon arrival, the responding officer made contact with the homeowner who provided proof he resided there.

SUPPOSE YOU CAN STAY 2:00 p.m., 7000 block of Seabreeze Avenue Citizen assist: An officer was dispatched to the address for a report of an unknown vehicle parked in the caller’s driveway. Upon arrival, the officer met with the caller who did not know who the vehicle belonged to. It was later determined that the owner was from a neighboring condo complex and had parked there due to the lot being resurfaced. The caller allowed the vehicle to remain parked on the property.

MISSING SAILBOAT FOUND 8:47 a.m., 2100 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Suspicious person: An individual had previously made town police aware of his missing yellow sailboat. Later that same day while on marine patrol, ­officers came across the yellow sailboat. They anchored the boat south of the John Ringling Bridge to await its owner.

driver said the car had broken down and a family member was on the way to help. Once the family member arrived, the officer assisted with arranging a private tow.

REST IN PEACE 9:11 a.m., 300 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Animal complaint: Police were dispatched to the area on report of a dead raccoon in the roadway.

The officer called the Public Works department to have it removed.

FORCE OF NATURE 11:34 a.m., 6800 block of Longboat Drive South Citizen assist: A caller advised police of potential flooding in front of the address. The responding officer arrived and observed water pooling in the street from the sewer drains and canal. The officer called back the individual and advised it was due to high tide.

NO DONUTS 4:50 p.m., Jewfish Key Boating citation: While on marine patrol, an officer observed a personal watercraft operating on a plane with excessive wake in a posted “slow speed, minimum wake” zone.

The operator was doing “donut” type maneuvers. After being stopped, the operator was issued a citation.

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A+E INSIDE: < ‘PLAYING THROUGH’ : The golf film will screen for free at WBTT’s Juneteenth Arts Festival. 13A CALENDAR: Circus Arts takes center stage. 14A >

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT JUNE 15, 2023

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LOVE COMEDY STYLE Les and Pam McCurdy celebrate 35 years of running their eponymous Sarasota club.

MONICA ROMAN GAGNIER

I

A+E EDITOR

f you’ve ever been in theater or on TV, you most likely know the “green room” is an inner sanctum where you

wait until it’s your turn to go under the lights or in front of the camera.

But at McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre in downtown Sarasota, The Green Room is a bar where audience members can enjoy a drink before or after the show.

This green room is like a museum.

It contains dozens of framed magazine covers and newspaper front pages, awards and proclamations that Pam and Les McCurdy have racked up during more than three decades in the comedy business.

This month, Pam and Les will have to make some room on the walls for the latest round of tributes. They are celebrating 35 years of providing a clean, comfortable venue for comics and teaching people from all walks of life the fine art of making a joke.

Told that a recent father-and-son team had attended McCurdy’s Comedy Camp even though one was a professional marketer and the other a successful actor, Les McCurdy wasn’t surprised. “It’s on a lot of people’s bucket lists,” he said. Like skydiving or visiting Yellowstone National Park? “Sure,” says Les. The McCurdys met in 1982 while they were both working at Bennigan’s in Sarasota. Both servers were interested in working in the arts.

Their romance took a hiatus in 1984 when Pam graduated from the Asolo Conservatory and moved to New York City. Les took his comedy act on the road and helped a boyhood friend run The Comedy Catch in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Pam eventually joined Les in Chattanooga, where they got engaged and married in 1987. The following year, on June 15, they opened their own comedy club in Sarasota at the nowdefunct Holiday Inn Airport Marina.

They later took the club to the Big Kitchen on Clark Road before renovating the old Teatro Movie Theatre, where they remained until 2014, when they moved to their current downtown location.

Making people laugh is harder than it looks, especially during a typical performance of about 20 minutes.

What’s even harder is keeping a marriage alive and growing for 35 years.

The McCurdys aren’t planning on adding couples therapy to their repertoire. But they have some tips for sustaining successful relationships.

Les wastes no time in offering

Monica Roman Gagnier

Les and Pam McCurdy opened their first Sarasota comedy club in 1988, the year after they got married.

advice. “No lying,” says the Chattanooga native, who often wears a straw cowboy hat.

What about white lies? “No lying of any kind,” Les says more forcefully. One lie leads to another, he says, destroying credibility and trust.

Lies of omission can be fatal to a relationship, Les says. They can lead to years of built-up resentment that, like shifting tectonic plates, slowly move toward an earthquake. “Everyone thought they were so happy because they had been married for 20 years and then boom,” Les says.

Some things, like chemistry, love and mutual respect, can just come naturally. The McCurdys don’t have to work too hard on those.

Communication is key, Pam says.

But you’ve got to make time for it. “It doesn’t always happen by itself,” says Pam, a petite blonde. Les agrees.

While some professional partners who are also in a romantic relationship try to keep business separate from pleasure, that’s not feasible in their line of work, the McCurdys say.

Even vacations involve scouting new talent. The McCurdys’ most recent getaway was to the Boston Comedy Festival, where they were wowed by the talent of the show’s winner, Learnmore “Long John” Jonasi.

Les still does some performing of his own. At a recent show, his audience included visitors from Indiana. They seemed surprised when McCurdy informed them Indiana is

Sidra Wali

Royal purple is McCurdy’s signature color.

home to one of the world’s largest collections of sex paraphernalia.

It’s part of the archives at Indiana University, where sex researcher Alfred Kinsey was based in the mid20th century. This piece of trivia was news to the Indiana comedy fans, and their reactions provided grist for Les’s mill.

Interacting with the audience and quizzing them about what brought them to Sarasota and to McCurdy’s generated plenty of risque ­material SEE MCCURDY’S, PAGE 12A

“McCurdy’s did put Sarasota on the map when it comes to comedy. We have a recognizable brand.”

Pam McCurdy

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

McCurdy’s FROM PAGE 11A

from McCurdy. There were jokes about “special” (wink-wink!) birthday presents, aging and online dating.

When something wasn’t getting any laughs, McCurdy quickly moved on. When a camera flashed, he calmly said, “Don’t do that” and immediately segued back into his routine.

Along with possessing the ability to size up someone in an instant and other formidable soft skills, Les has great respect for hard numbers.

“If you don’t have a handle on your alcohol and food costs, you’re not going to stay in business,” he says.

That’s where Pam comes in, dealing with vendors, making sure deliveries are accurate and on time.

Her soft skills are pretty impressive, too. They come in handy when hiring and managing staff in a time of service industry personnel shortages. Pam also handles press and publicity inquiries and other housekeeping issues. The latter literally means making sure McCurdy’s shines.

Les remembers how one of his patrons once came up to him and said, “Your men’s room is so clean that I decided to take a dump there.”

Clearly, bathroom humor comes as naturally to Les as jokes about sex.

In restaurant or theater parlance, Pam is in charge of the back of the house, while Les’ domain is the front of the house, scouting and booking talent for the shows and the Humor Institute.

Pam mostly lets Les be the star of the show. But she doesn’t hesitate to speak her mind. When Les started talking about their predecessors in Gulf Coast comedy, she gently interrupted and said, “I’m sorry, Les. McCurdy’s did put Sarasota on the map when it comes to comedy. We have a recognizable brand.”

To support that brand, servers at McCurdy’s wear T-shirts with the tagline, “This place is a joke,” adorned with signature McCurdy’s stick figure holding a microphone that also graces the outside of the building.

McCurdy’s merchandise can be purchased in The Green Room, which, like the main club, can be rented out for parties. But the McCurdys don’t use a hard sell approach to club swag.

They let their headliners push their own promotional T-shirts and hats.

Many well-known comedians have come to McCurdy’s over the years. The list includes Amy Schumer, Jeff Foxworthy, Larry the Cable Guy, Chris Rock, Tommy Chong and Rosie O’Donnell, to name just a few.

Famous funnymen (and women) often come back to McCurdy’s when they’re on the road, especially if they’re looking for a cabaret setting.

Not every comedian can fill the Van Wezel the way former Tonight Show host Jay Leno did in March.

Among the household names who will be coming to McCurdy’s in the coming months are Pauly Shore and Andrew Dice Clay.

Have these polarized times forced comics to retreat from the no-holdsbarred style of Lenny Bruce, George Carlin and Richard Pryor? Nothing’s off limits, according to Les. “It doesn’t matter what a joke’s about if it’s funny,” he says.

Comedy venues have come and gone in Sarasota. With its signature royal purple paint, McCurdy’s is the last club standing. Like many other businesses in the performing arts, the comedy club was knocked flat by COVID. Luckily, the McCurdy’s were in a position to take the hit.

With the pandemic mostly behind it, McCurdy’s is sitting pretty. Their 2014 move to the former location of Shaner’s Pizzeria looks exceptionally shrewd, given the development now going on in their part of downtown.

Sprouts recently signed a lease for 23,000 square feet at Main Street and Links Avenue. The natural grocer will have space in Aster & Links, a two-story building with 424 luxury residential housing units. If residents are in the mood for a laugh or two, they can walk around the corner to McCurdy’s.

On the McCurdy’s website, Pam and Les say they plan to celebrate their 50th anniversary at their downtown comedy club. With their 35-year track record, they’re not kidding around.

Courtesy photo

Pam and Les McCurdy toast on their wedding day, July 25, 1987, in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

“Communication is key, but you’ve got to make time for it.

It doesn’t always happen naturally” Pam McCurdy

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

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Courtesy photos

Raleigh Mosely II, Ariel Blue and Derric Gobourne Jr. will perform as RAD during WBTT’s Juneteenth Arts Festival.

A Sarasota Juneteenth event to remember

RECLAIMING HOME CONTEMPORARY SEMINOLE ART THROUGH SEP 4

MONICA ROMAN GAGNIER A+E EDITOR

ARTISTS IN THE EXHIBITION:

J

NOAH BILLIE // WILSON BOWERS // HOUSTON R. CYPRESS ELISA HARKINS // ALYSSA OSCEOLA // JESSICA OSCEOLA C. MAXX STEVENS // TONY TIGER // HULLEAH J. TSINHNAHJINNIE BRIAN ZEPEDA // CORINNE ZEPEDA // PEDRO ZEPEDA

INFORMATION + TICKETS

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Nate Jacobs, founder and artistic director of Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe.

IF YOU GO JUNETEENTH ARTS FESTIVAL When: 1-9 p.m. Sunday, June 18 Tickets: Free Where: Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N. Orange Ave. Info: Visit WestcoastBlackTheatre.org.

Elisa Harkins (Cherokee/Muscogee [Creek], b. 1978), Mekusape Fullana [video still], 2021.

Digital video with sound, 12:45 minutes. Courtesy of the artist. Photo: Ian Byers-Gamber.

took place at the Laurel Oak Country Club and other locations in Sarasota.

Written by Curtis Jordon and directed by Balbinka Korzeniowska, “Playing Through” tells the story of Ann Gregory, the first Black female golfer to play in a U.S. Golf Association tournament.

Jacobs says the Juneteenth Arts Festival has the capacity to serve about 500 guests, between the 200seat Donnelly Theatre and seating in front of the outdoor stage and in shaded areas.

There also will be food trucks onsite. Preparations have been made for a hot and sunny day and for guests of all ages, Jacobs says.

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Paid for in part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax Revenues. This exhibition is supported, in part, by the Gulf Coast Community Foundation; The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art Endowment; the Mandell and Madeleine Berman Foundation Endowment; and the Bob and Diane Roskamp Endowment.

Sponsored, in part, by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture; the Florida Council on Arts and Culture; and the National Endowment for the Arts. Special thanks to The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts for supporting the Curatorial Research Fellowship.

THE JEAN & ALFRED GOLDSTEIN EXHIBITION SERIES

TIFFANY

THE PURSUIT OF BEAUTY IN NATURE FINAL WEEKS PRESENTING SPONSORS

Drs. Joel Morganroth and Gail Morrison Morganroth LEAD SPONSORS

SELBY.ORG

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uneteenth celebrations in Sarasota are expanding this year with Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe’s inaugural Juneteenth Arts Festival.

WBTT and other organizations have held Juneteenth events in the past, but nothing of this magnitude, says WBTT founder and Artistic Director Nate Jacobs.

Juneteenth, the U.S. holiday commemorating the day all enslaved Black Americans were freed, is all about joy, but there is an educational aspect to WBTT’s Juneteenth Arts Festival, too, Jacobs says.

“We want to invite the community to help celebrate an extremely important date in African American history. We have planned educational, fun-filled activities for the entire community,” Jacobs says.

Two highlights of the festival, which will take place at WBTT, 1012 N. Orange Ave., are a performance of musical group RAD and screenings of the golf-themed feature film “Playing Through.” Screenings will be held in WBTT’s air-conditioned Donnelly Theatre.

RAD members Raleigh Mosely II, Ariel Blue and Derric Gobourne Jr., who each have their own artistic careers, have been making a name for themselves around town with their concerts of soul and R&B hits.

RAD will be one of several performers on an all-day outdoor stage for spoken word and live music, which will also feature students from Ringling College of Art and Design.

The movie “Playing Through” holds a special place in the hearts of WBTT staff and artists because of their intimate involvement in the production. Much of the filming

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

$30 and up Visit SarasotaOrchestra.org/ Festival.

Grammy Award-winning Attacca Quartet makes its festival debut in this chamber showcase. They will perform Caroline Shaw’s Three Essays: First Essay (Nimrod) and Ravel’s String Quartet. Continues through June 24.

‘REEL MUSIC’ 6 p.m. at Florida StudioTheatre’s Court Cabaret, 1265 First St. $34-$39 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

“Reel Music” celebrates the movies that helped create the soundtrack to the last century, with classics like “Singing in the Rain,” “Circle of Life” and “My Heart Will Go On.” This lively revue reminds us that movies and music have always gone hand in hand. Runs through June 25.

8-TRACK: THE SOUNDS OF THE ’70S IN CONCERT 7:30 p.m. at 3501 S. Tamiami Trail $30 Visit ThePlayers.org.

It’s time to get up and boogie as The Players presents a fast-paced musical romp through the muchmaligned decade. Runs through June 18.

hair salon, and it’s up to Sarasota audiences to outwit the suspects and catch the killer in this interactive comedy whodunit. Runs through July 2.

FRIDAY

FRIDAY FEST: KETTLE OF FISH 5-9 p.m. on the lawn of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail Free Visit VanWezel.org.

Kettle of Fish’s original music is an amalgam of rock, blues, reggae and New Orleans soul.

‘RADIANT TAROT: PATHWAY TO CREATIVITY’ Tony Barnstone 6:30 p.m. at Bookstore1, 117 S. Pineapple Ave. $5 Visit HermitageArtistRetreat.org.

Tony Barnstone’s “The Radiant Tarot: Pathway to Creativity” presents a new yet ancient approach to awakening creativity and personal growth.

DISNEY’S ‘THE LION KING JR.’ 7 p.m. at Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 Third Ave. W., Bradenton $10.50-$18 Visit ManateePerforming ArtsCenter. com.

Courtesy photos

The Alexis Brothers perform in the Summer Circus Spectacular through Aug. 12 at the Historic Asolo Theater at The Ringling.

THIS WEEK THURSDAY

SUMMER CIRCUS SPECTACULAR 2 p.m. at Historic Asolo Theater 5401 Bay Shore Road $15-$20 Visit CircusArts.org.

Circus fans of all ages can experience the best of the circus arts at affordable prices thanks to the ongoing partnership of The Circus Arts Academy and The

Ringling. Master of Ceremonies Heidi Herriott, a third-generation American circus artist, presides over performances by hand balancers, clowns, jugglers and aerial rope artists, to name just a few genres.

Runs through Aug. 12.

‘GOLD STANDARD’ Sarasota Music Festival 4:30 p.m. at Holley Hall, 709 N. Tamiami Trail

THE SURFER BOYS 7:30 p.m. at FST’s Goldstein Cabaret, 1265 First St. $18 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

From the group that brought you The Jersey Tenors comes a rousing tribute to the band that took America on a “Surfin’ Safari” in the early 1960s. Four Broadway veterans bring The Beach Boys’ biggest hits to Sarasota with classics like “California Girls,” “Good Vibrations,” “Barbara Ann” and many more.

Runs through Aug. 13.

‘SHEAR MADNESS’ 8 p.m. at FST’s Gompertz Theatre, 1265 First St. $25 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

There’s been a murder in a local

School’s out for summer and camp hasn’t started. Entertain the kids with Disney’s “The Lion King Jr.”

OUR PICK

‘APPALACHIAN SPRING’ SARASOTA MUSIC FESTIVAL Marion Kuszyk, associate principal of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, joins hornist Michelle Reed Baker in Mozart’s serenade for wind octet. Music Director Jeffrey Kahane conducts the Aaron Copland work that gives the program its name and also plays piano with Attacca Quartet on Brahms’ Piano Quintet in F Minor.

Continues through June 24.

IF YOU GO When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 16 Where: Sarasota Opera House Tickets: $29 and up Info: Visit SarasotaOrchestra.org/Festival

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

Visit OlliRinglingCollege.org.

DON’T MISS

‘THAT MUST BE THE ENTRANCE TO HEAVEN’ In this world premiere by Franky D. Gonzalez, four Latino boxers all chase a world title to make their dreams come true. But are the sacrifices each must make to win the championship belt worth it?

IF YOU GO When: Through July 9 Where: 7:30 p.m. at Urbanite Theatre, 1487 Second St. Tickets: $39 Info: Visit UrbaniteTheatre. com

15A

Everything you wanted to know about Ole Blue Eyes but were afraid to ask will be covered in this entertaining talk, part of OLLI’s summer education series.

THE MANY LANGUAGES OF JENNIFER CROFT 6:30 p.m. at Hermitage Artist Retreat, 6630 Manasota Key Road, Englewood $5 Visit HermitageArtistRetreat.org.

Courtesy photos

Peter Pasco (left), Edgar Miguel Sanchez, Rodney Nelson and Juan Ramirez Jr. star in “That Must be the Entrance to Heaven,” which runs through July 9 at Urbanite Theatre.

SATURDAY

GREASE! IN CONCERT 7 p.m. at Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave. Building 5 $35-$50 Visit VenicePerformingArtsCenter. com.

The 50s-themed musical comes to the Venice stage for one night only.

Get out your leather jackets, poodle skirts and saddle shoes for some romance-filled “Summer Nights.”

Grease is the word; pass it along!

‘SOUND STORIES’ 7:30 p.m. at Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave. $30 Visit SarasotaOrchestra.org/ Festival.

The concert in the Sarasota Music Festival features the works of Respighi, Tchaikovsky and Mozart.

Continues through June 24.

SUNDAY

‘RISING STARS’ 2:30 p.m. at Holley Hall, 709 N. Tamiami Trail $15 and up Visit SarasotaOrchestra.org/ Festival.

Fellows studying at the Sarasota Music Festival perform the works of Dvorak, Brahms, Ibert, Faure and more. Continues through June 24.

MONDAY

MPROV AND MORE 11 a.m. at Florida Studio Theatre, 1265 First St. $10 Visit OlliRinglingCollege.org.

For many, improv is on the “bucket list.” Here’s a low-risk chance to give it a try at the Osher LifeLong Learning Institute course at FST.

TUESDAY

A FRANK LECTURE ON SINATRA Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) 11 a.m. at Sarasota Art Museum on the Ringling College Museum Campus, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail $10

Writer Jennifer Croft will appear on Tuesday, June 20, at Hermitage Artist Retreat with her husband, Boris Dralyuk, a writer and translator. Croft won a 2022 Guggenheim Fellowship for her novel “Amadou,” which will be published this year by Bloomsbury US and Scribe UK .

WEDNESDAY

FRANKIE PAUL 7 p.m. at McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre, 1923 Ringling Blvd. $25 Visit McCurdysComedy.com.

Frankie Paul has been touring professionally since 1990 and is sure to tickle your funny bone with his material on marriage, family and human stupidity. Runs through June 24.

Juneteenth Arts Festival Celebrate Juneteenth with WBTT! Featuring local organizations, food vendors, performances, and filmmakers to partake in a communal sharing of art and culture!

Sunday, June 18th, 2023 1 PM - 9 pm Westcoast black theatre troupe 1012 N Orange Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236

For more information visit: WestcoastBlackTheatre.org

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www.manasotaonline.com

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

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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

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.

PRESENTED BY

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.

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JUNE 15, 2023

YOUR NEIGHBORS Creating health for life Longboat-based health expert Mirabai Holland coaches clients through physical ­rehabilitation, teaches healthy eating habits and so much more.

JAMES PETER MANAGING EDITOR

W

hen Mirabai Holland coaches a client through rehabilitation after hip replacement surgery, she can speak from experience.

The Longboat-based health coach had hip replacement surgery on both hips last year, but she’s made an impressive recovery and is leading a new wellness program to help other patients do the same.

“By three months, I was able to walk without the walker. I bypassed the cane. And by (four months) I said, ‘I think I can teach (again),’” explained Holland, who teaches fitness classes at Bayfront Park in addition to an array of other area health initiatives.

The nationally known wellness expert recently partnered with Dr. Edward Stolarski, a local orthopedic surgeon to develop the SRQ Ortho Club wellness program, which Holland said is a holistic approach to preparing patients for total hip and knee replacement surgery, offering one-on-one coaching for nutrition and pre- and post-rehabilitation.

“I know very specifically what (patients) should do to get ready (for surgery) because I’ve gone through it,” said Holland. “But I also know the science of what they need to do.”

In the course of the program’s roughly six months, Holland has already coached 20 patients via

Mirabai Holland coaches a client on proper technique for using a walker after his hip replacement surgery earlier this year.

phone and Zoom. As Holland explained, a hip or knee r­ eplacement surgery is the perfect opportunity for patients to make healthy lifestyle changes and build better nutrition and exercise habits.

LOCAL DETOUR

Helping people build healthier lifestyles has been the focus of Holland’s long and influential career in wellness. Coincidentally, she found her way to the fitness industry thanks in part to a knee surgery patient living in Sarasota — her father.

Holland was still a dancer and choreographer in 1979 when her father had knee surgery and grew frustrated by his lack of progress in rehabilitation. So he fired his physical therapist and turned to his daughter for help.

Holland was reluctant at first, but eventually she brought to bear her understanding of movement and the body, learned through dance. In just three week’s Holland’s father was feeling less pain — and frustration, she said.

That experience helped alter Holland’s course. She went back to school and earned a degree in exercise physiology from Columbia University in New York.

She created a corporate fitness program in the 1980s, for which some of her first clients were staff members of Forbes at the then newly built magazine headquarters’ gym on Fifth Avenue in New York.

“It was a cardio and strength class,” said Holland. “I went there and I probably looked like a little dancer. You know, I had my leotard on.”

The class was a hit, though, and Holland continued to teach at Forbes for four years and at several other NYC companies, she said.

“I had this nice little gig going on, and it just got me into a whole different headspace,” she said.

That nice little gig helped launch Holland’s career as a wellness consultant, taking her to Indonesia to get a luxury destination spa gym up and running. Then as an international consultant Holland worked in France, Portugal and Germany.

And during her fitness travels, she met her future husband, F. Sebastian Marino. Holland was a judge at an aerobics competition and Marino was producing the footage for ESPN. It was back in the U.S. where the next chapter of her career took off.

DIRECTING FITNESS

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Holland began as a consultant at

Courtesy photos

the 92nd Street Y in Manhattan and became its director of fitness and wellness. During the course of her 16-year career there, the class offerings grew to more than 100, and Holland developed a dizzying array of wellness and fitness programs, including ones specifically for osteoporosis prevention, cancer patients and heart patients.

Holland and Marino put a number of workouts on video, starting with a four-DVD set.

“It was for someone that hated to exercise and was never exposed (to it) before. And so we had this program where they could start with just five minutes and build up to 30 minutes and then followed with longer videos that were aimed at the three major components of fitness — cardio, strength and flexibility,” she said.

The success of the series of exercise videos was part of the reason Holland left the Y in 2010. QVC was interested in selling the exercise videos. The couple moved to Longboat, which became a perfect background for shooting exercise videos.

Once Marino and Holland were living in Longboat, it seemed natural to find opportunities to bring Holland’s health expertise to the local community.

In addition to the fitness classes she teaches locally, Holland runs a private health coaching practice and has worked with Manatee County since 2014 to offer employees health coaching sessions to foster healthy lifestyle habits. The first five are free, said Holland. After that, county workers can get 15 more coaching sessions for a small co-pay.

Recently, Holland brought a new weight-management program — Lose to Win — to the area. The eightweek program is designed to help participants develop sustainable, healthy eating habits. Holland said

“It’s really about your sleep, it’s really about your stress.

It’s really about activity.

Food, yes, but also your environment, what’s going on.”

— Mirabai Holland

she plans to offer the course via live Zoom sessions several times this year to Sarasota residents.

“It’s really about your sleep; it’s really about your stress. It’s really about activity. Food, yes, but also your environment, what’s going on.”

While Holland has been focused on fitness for much of her career, she got her start in the creative arts and never abandoned that passion, expressing herself via photography, ink drawings, painting and poetry — some of which can be viewed at www.MirabaiHollandArt.com.

“So many people say, ‘Well, just be retired.’ You know, I wouldn’t even know what to do with myself. This is my retirement.”

She has at least one more idea for her “nonretirement.” One that would merge her passion for coaching with her artistic side.

“We’re thinking about maybe developing a creativity course for people. I think everybody has that light in them for creativity, but it doesn’t often get fostered because a lot of things get in the way.”

To contact Holland about her wellness programming email ­AskMirabai@ MovingFree.com or visit www.MirabaiHolland.com.

Mirabai Holland coaching clients via Zoom recently.

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

WILD FLORIDA

Creative crafting on the circle

T

ents lined the circle and festivalgoers darted in and out of the shade to beat the heat, but there was a colorful feast of sights at the 2023 St. Armands Circle Craft Festival on Saturday and Sunday.

The work of regional artists and artisans was on display with a wide variety for perusal, including oil and acrylic paintings, starfish candles, artisanal cheeses, jewelry and woodworking crafts. There were also orchids and other botanicals for sale.

Lakewood Ranch High student Lorenzo Liberti and his mother, Martha, were among the craft sellers. Lorenzo started his company Heroic Flags when he was 14 years old. Lorenzo soon found that with the right tools and materials, he could create rustic American flags from wood. He carves wooden flags and has made donations to local nonprofits supporting military veterans.

He explained that each flag takes about 20 hours to make.

“The idea of giving back first occurred to me in January (2019) when I went to feed the homeless with my church and met a veteran in need,” he said.

Another vendor, Zsuzsanna Luciano, had an eye-catching display. The photographer merges as many as 80 different photos of landscapes and outdoor scenes to form huge pictures that contain 2,700 megapixels, making for crystal clear images. The incredible clarity creates the effect of looking through a window or standing in the scene itself.

Photos by Sidra Wali

Miri Hardy

The work of Jax Kalin, wildlife artist

Squirrels are expert foragers, and wild mushrooms are an important part of their natural diet, providing the nutrients they need to survive and thrive.

Feeding squirrels or other wildlife never ends well Squirrels support healthy ecosystems. We can help keep them and other wild animals healthy by never feeding wildlife.

MIRI HARDY CONTRIBUTOR

T

he ubiquitous eastern gray squirrel is one of Florida’s three native squirrel species and is found in both natural and urban settings.

Although very adaptable, these diurnal mammals prefer locations with mature tree canopies. Such habitats offer abundant nesting cavities and allow them to move about without traveling on the ground, where they’re more vulnerable to predators such as owls, hawks, snakes, bobcats, coyotes, raccoons and cats.

Squirrels are considered critical for the health and balance of the ecosystems they inhabit. In addition to being a food source for many species, as consumers (and cachers) of nuts and seeds, they provide other vital ecosystem services, such as seed dissemination and plant diversification. Indeed, thanks to their seed-caching activities, squirrels have an important role in maintaining Florida’s native longleaf pine ecosystem.

But when living in close proximity to humans, squirrels, like other wildlife, can become dependent on people for food, to the detriment of their ecosystems. Such dependence can occur due to unintentional feeding, as happens when

Sea Pixie Designs

— SIDRA WALI

Nikolette Vardi, a creator of mixed-media collages

WORSHIP

An Ecumenical Church that Welcomes all People Founded in 1956

directory

a­ nimals raid loosely secured trash or find litter. But unfortunately, wild animals are often directly fed by humans.

Feeding wildlife never ends well for them. It can be dangerous for us.

And in some cases (e.g. American alligators), it’s illegal. Wild animals have specialized diets and can become malnourished or die if fed foods that don’t provide the nutrients they need.

Feeding young animals prevents them from developing critical foraging skills. Importantly, it only takes a few feeding incidents for wild animals to lose their natural fear of people and associate us with food.

Though cute, squirrels are wild animals — with sharp teeth and nails — that become demanding and aggressive when food is no longer provided. In fact, due to public safety concerns, feeding wildlife at Myakka River State Park can actually be a death sentence for animals.

For example, when American alligators start approaching park visitors after being illegally fed, they have to be killed.

We can help keep Florida’s wildlife healthy and our ecosystems balanced by never feeding wild animals. By not leaving litter behind and keeping trash receptacles secure, we can avoid unintentionally feeding them, too.

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

Follow us @FriendsOfMyakkaRiver

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

401250-1

2B

Lord’s Warehouse hours are 9:00 - 12:00 pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays The Lord’s Warehouse will be closed during the month of September.

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

Summer Worship

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

Sundays at 10:00am

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

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 Visitors Welcome Visitors & & Residents Residents Welcome

401203-1

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

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

401464-1

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.

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

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

40 North Adams Dr., Sarasota, FL • 941.388.1234 • Questions? Contact: michael@saklc.com

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

401333-1

Growing in Jesus’ Name

All Are Welcome!

401192-1

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

Sunday Coffee Hour at 9:00am

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

3B

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

BENCHMARK RESULTS • STR ATEGIC MARKETING • PERSONALIZED SERVICE

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3080 GRAND BAY BLVD #515 | OFFERED AT $935,000 This spectacular 2 bedroom first floor residence is situated perfectly for Sarasota Bay views.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

Akiko Campbell paints 8-year-old Blair Lee’s face.

Photos by Sidra Wali

Julie Henry, author of “Wisdom from the Wild,” started out at Mote as an intern in 1994.

Donna Krusenoski of the Sarasota Shell Club

Katelyn Olsen tries to hold a peppermint shrimp.

Celebrating Ocean Day the Mote way

O

nce wasn’t enough for Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium to celebrate World Ocean Day. After Mote partnered with Salt Life on June 8 to host a beach cleanup on Siesta Key for the day-of observance, Mote hosted its own World Ocean Day celebration on June 10 in the aquarium courtyard, with several conservation organizations presenting exhibits.

The 30x30 challenge theme was featured prominently in the courtyard. The campaign encourages the protection of 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030. According to the Ocean Project, only about 8% of the planet’s oceans qualify as highly protected.

“We want to remind people about this wonderful nature and how vital it is to our tourism and in general,” said Sam Douglass, event coordinator.

Donna Krusenoski was on hand from the Sarasota Shell Club to

share the organization’s mission, which includes education, community outreach, building respect for the environment and support for ocean-based charities.

Among the club’s efforts, members sell artwork and jewelry made from the shells to donate to conservation causes and nonprofits. The club also will help identify shells that people find on the beach.

Many people are surprised to learn that shells have handedness, with most being “right-handed,” explained Krusenoski. The relatively rare lightning whelk, though is sinistral, or left-handed, and can be found on Florida beaches.

“You see this beautiful nature and you can’t resist picking it up,” said Krusenoski.

Randy and Martha Wells were on hand from the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program and shared some of what the organization has learned about local dolphins.

About 170 dolphins live in Sarasota Bay year-round, said Martha Wells, volunteer. The program has observed six generations now.

“We’re learning a lot about their relationships. We can look at their communication and other factors that they need to be successful,” said Martha Wells.

Part of the organization’s outreach included educating aquarium visitors about best practices at sea to ensure people don’t unintentionally harm marine life.

The No. 1 cause of death for local dolphins is recreational fishing gear, said Randy Wells, Sarasota Dolphin Research Program director and chairman.

“We need to take more responsibility for what we put out there,” said Randy Wells. “We’re all neighbors and we share the environment. We share the same air. The same water. The same fish.”

Randy and Martha Wells of the ­Sarasota Dolphin Research Program

— JAMES PETER

RESULTS...

that will move you!

Leading, guiding and empowering the most distinguished Sellers and Buyers of Luxury Real Estate on Longboat Key.

941-201-2114 www.rickcusack.com

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1575 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236 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, JUNE 15, 2023

5B

STANDING UNITED WITH UKRAINE THE ACKERMAN GROUP

941.387.1820 941.387.1820

TOP PRODUCING SMALL TEAM IN SARASOTA COUNTY

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CRYSTAL SANDS - SIESTA KEY

6300 MIDNIGHT PASS RD., #101, SARASOTA, FL • 2BR/2BA • 1,240 SF • $1,395,000 Turnkey furnished walkout residence with split plan, porcelain wood floors & new hurricane impact sliders. A great investment opportunity!

WATER CLUB I DOWNTOWN SARASOTA | VISTA BAY POINT

$3,495,000 THE SEA BREEZE

NEW PRICE 128 GOLDEN GATE PT. #1002A | 3BR+DEN/3BA | 3,477 SF | PENTHOUSE3BR/3.5 WITH PRIVATE ROOF TERRACE BA • 3,700 SF TOP • Private 2-Car Garage 9008 MIDNIGHT PASS RD., #5 SARASOTA, FL

1241 GULF OF MEXICO DR., #704, LONGBOAT KEY, FL

3BR/4BA • 3,045 SF

Breathtaking sunset views over the Gulf of Mexico from this 7th floor residence with two terraces.

$3,199,000 NEW PRICE $3,550,000

Rare 2-story Penthouse with a private roof-top terrace on Siesta Key with private elevator access, deeded boat slip, hurricane rated windows and sliders, and oversized private 2-car garage.

NEW PRICE

LA BELLASARA - DOWNTOWN

$3,995,000

SIESTA COVE

$4,250,000

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

LA BELLASARA

$4,289,000

464 GOLDEN GATE PT., #503 , SARASOTA, FL

5212 SIESTA COVE DRIVE, SARASOTA

full concierge services in a gated, pet-friendly community.

a3BR/4BA 120’ boat dock & 10,000 • 3,045 SF lb. lift. Exceptional open water views.

KEY |SF SIESTA COVE NEW PRICE $3,495,000 3BR/4.5 SIESTA BA • 3,490 • 2-Car Garage 5BR/6 BA +CLUB 2 Half Baths • 5,133 SF • Situated WATER I - LONGBOAT KEY on 1.5 lots $3,495,000 Rarely available 5th floor residence expansive bay and an open floor plan & | 120’ 5212 SIESTA COVE DR. |offering 5BR/6BA/2HB | 5,133 SF city | ONviews, 1.5 WATERFRONT LOTS OF NEW DOCK | 1,000’ OF SCREENED AND OPEN DECK AREA Spacious, beautifully landscaped 2-story waterfront point property on a clu-de-sace, with 1241 GULF OF MEXICO DR., #704, LONGBOAT KEY, FL Breathtaking sunset views over the Gulf of Mexico from this 7th floor residence with two terraces.

OPEN FRIDAY 11-2

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NEW PRICE

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AQUARIUS CLUB

$1,260,000 COREY’S LANDING

1701 GULF OF MEXICO DR. #207, LONGBOAT KEY 2BR/2BA • 1,551 SF • St. Regis Membership

$1,899,000

3414 FAIR OAKS LANE, LONGBOAT KEY 4BR/4BA • 3,729 SF • Bay, Golf Course views

THE SEA BREEZE - SIESTA KEY LIDO NEW MOTIVATED LA BELLASARA $3.395,000 REGENCY PRICE $2,900,000 $549,000

9008GOLDEN MIDNIGHT PASS #5,SARASOTA SARASOTA, FL 464 GATE PT.,RD., #202, 1700 BENJAMIN FRANKLIN DR.#5F, SARASOTA 3BR/3.5 BA • 3,700 SF • Private 2-Car Garage 981full SF floor • Baypenthouse and city views 3BR+DEN/3.5BA SFsunsets • 2-Car 360 degree views •& 3,153 glorious ongarage the Gulf of 1BR/1.5BA Mexico from• this with a private roof-top terrace, deeded boat slip, and hurricane impact windows and sliders.

CONFUSED ABOUT NEW CONSTRUCTION OPTIONS? NEW PRICE $2,290,000 SIESTA KEY | THE SEA BREEZE

SIESTA KEY | SARA SANDS

$2,900,000

5182 SANDY BEACH AVE. | 3BR+STUDY/4.5BA | 3,398 SF 9008 MIDNIGHT PASS RD., #5 | 3BR/3.5 BA | 3,700 SF DEMYSTIFY THE EXPERIENCE — CALL THE ACKERMAN GROUP! 941-387-1820 116’ OF WATERFRONT | WATERCRAFT STORAGE W/ UPLAND CUT PRIVATE 2-CAR GARAGE & ROOF TOP TERRACE | DEEDED BOAT DOCK

PRE-CONSTRUCTION

PENDING SIESTA COVE- SIESTA KEY

$3,987,000

5212 SIESTA COVE DRIVE, SARASOTA

5BR/6 BA + 2 Half Baths • 5,133 SF • Situated on 1.5 waterfront lots

Spacious, beautifully landscaped 2-story waterfront point property on a clu-de-sace, with a 120’ boat dock & 10,000 lb. lift. Exceptional open water views.

THE EVOLUTION 111 Golden Gate Point Sarasota, FL 34236 Completion: Fall 2023

MAINLAND | SORRENTO SHORES

THE EDGE 290 Cocoanut Avenue Sarasota, FL 34236 Completion: Spring 2026

449 S. SHORE DRIVE, OSPREY | 3BR/3BA | 2,564 SF MINUTES TO SIESTA KEY

PENINSULA SARASOTA 223 Golden Gate Point Sarasota, FL 34236 Completion: Spring 2026

THE DEMARCAY 33 S. Palm Avenue Sarasota, FL 34236 Completion:: Fall 2023

688 GOLDEN GATE PT 688 Golden Gate Point Sarasota, FL 34236 Completion: TBD

SORRENTO SHORES - MAINLAND

$899,000449 LONGBOAT KEY | FAIRWAY BAY S. SHORE DRIVE, OSPREY

3BR/3BA • 2,564 SF • Minutes Siesta Key 1930 HARBOURSIDE DR.to#141 | 2BR/2BA | 1,442 SF

$949,000

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Contemporary styled home with oversized lap pool, waterfall feature, spa, a large, covered RARELY AVAILABLE | LARGEST CORNER UNIT patio with gas grill and private backyard with firepit.

THE COLLECTION EN POINTE ZAHRADA 2 ROSEWOOD RESIDENCES VILLA BALLADA ONE PARK SARASOTA 1355 2nd Street 509 Golden Gate Point 1546 4th Street 430 Kumquat Court 1100 Blvd. of the Arts 1100 Blvd. of the Arts Sarasota, FL 34236 Sarasota, FL 34236 Sarasota, FL 34236 Sarasota, FL 34236 Sarasota, FL 34236 595 BAY ISLES RD., SUITE 250 | LONGBOAT KEY, FL 34228 • 443 JOHN RINGLING BLVD., STE. F | SARASOTA, FLSarasota, 34236 FL 34236 Completion: Winter 2023 Completion: Fall 2026 Completion: Winter 2024 Completion: Fall 2025 Completion:: Fall 2025 Completion: Fall 2026

404537-1

SOTA 1703 Main Street Sarasota, FL 34236 Completion: Summer 2025

6B

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

Celebrating 50 YEARS of Living and Working on Longboat Key Cathy C. Meldahl, P.A. Your Longboat Key Community Realtor

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!

941.724.7228

440 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Longboat Key, FL 34228

CathyMeldahl@michaelsaunders.com

401310-1

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• 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

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845 LongboatevClub 65 Lighthouse dPoint irD tRoad nioP esuohthgiL 56 aoR bDrive ulC taobgnoL 548 Regis 19,300 SF | A4440615 0845 0 0,Longboat 59|7$19,750,000 ,3$ |Club 181Road 834 4|ARegent | FS 3Court 39,4 4,933 SF |St.A4438181 0 0 0Residences ,057|,9$3,795,000 1$ #201 | 516| 0New 4 4 4Construction A | FS 0 03,91 19,300sf | 140’ on the Gulf | $16,500,000

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Observer Media Group offices will be closed on Tuesday, July 4.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

7B

REAL ESTATE BY A REAL EXPERT

NO REALTOR HAS EVER LISTED OR SOLD MORE LONGBOAT KEY PROPERTIES

PORTOBELLO - JUST LISTED 3235 GULF OF MEXICO DR., #304 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $1,195,000 Stunning direct Gulf front, corner2BR/2BA residence with an open floor plan, meticulously maintained interior space, and an expansive, open balcony to enjoy breathtaking sunsets nightly.

QUEENS HARBOUR - JUST LISTED 3590 FAIR OAKS LANE • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $2,995,000 Waterfront 4BR/3.5BA residence with 3,957 +/- SF of living area, a private pool, a private guest suite above the 2-car garage, and a boat dock with easy access to open water.

BIRD KEY 632 MOURNING DOVE DRIVE • SARAOSTA, FL • $3,250,000 Canal front 3BR/2BA pool home with a world of possibilities: live in, update, rent. A boater’s dream, set on a navigable canal with easy access to Sarasota Bay and beyond.

BEACHPLACE • NEW PRICE 1095 GULF OF MEXICO DR., #504 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $995,000 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.

LONGBEACH 7105 GULF OF MEXICO DR., #11 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $995,000 Beautifully done, 2BR/2BA, furnished corner residence, with first level access to the finest in beachfront living. The redone kitchen

seamlessly opens to the living and dining areas, where sliding doors in the living room lead to the fully covered and screened terrace.

GRAND BAY V 3080 GRAND BAY BLVD., #532 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $899,000 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.

THE BAYOU 3210 BAYOU SOUND • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $1,495,000 One of the best values for a single-family pool home, behind the gates of the Bay Isles community. The 3BR/2BA plan has been modified to a 2BR plus office, with a laundry area on the same level.

SEA GATE CLUB 2425 GULF OF MEXICO DR., #6A • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $1,795,000 Indulge in the ultimate Longboat Key lifestyle with this stunning 6th floor, furnished 2BR/2BA corner residence with recent renovations designed to open the living spaces.

COUNTRY CLUB SHORES 510 CHIPPING LANE • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $1,795,000 Classic 3BR/2BA, canal front residence presenting the opportunity to update to your taste, build new on a fantastic lot, or take advantage of rental income potential. New seawall currently being installed.

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.

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.

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.

OVER $79 MILLION PENDING AND SOLD 2023 OVER $97 MILLION SOLD IN 2022 • OVER $134 MILLION SOLD IN 2021

Bruce Myer

Realtor ®

941.376.5311

595 BAY ISLES ROAD, SUITE 250 LONGBOAT KEY, FL 34228

401499-1

Bruce@BruceMyer.com • www.BruceMyer.com

8B

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

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Barreling into offseason

B Downtown Sarasota’s Premier Senior Rental Retirement Residence

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

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Enjoy listening to Jazz selections from this talented group either out in our gardens or indoors, depending on the weather.

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To RSVP Call 941-955-9099

FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2023 RAIN OR SHINE 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM

ourbon. Burgers. Barbecue. That’s how the Longboat Key Republican Club kicked off its offseason on Saturday — with a cookout and bourbon tasting to introduce new members to the club and encourage socializing during the summer for the club’s year-rounders.

Fifty-five members and guests sampled a range of bourbons, including Chicken Cock Whiskey, Rebel Yell and Bardstown Bourbon’s Discovery.

Club President Garnett Black co-founded the Bardstown Bourbon Co. in 2014.

It’s now among the top distilleries in the country in production volume.

Black moved to the area in 2019 and said events like Saturday’s help foster connection among transplants.

“People want to go to the state that’s free, but then it’s hard to connect. (Tonight) is not only a chance to talk to other Republicans but also to make friends.”

The Republican Club has traditionally met from October to April, regularly hosting speakers on a variety of topics, but Black said she intends to hold more events in the offseason and that the tasting was likely to become a regular event.

Four different types of bourbon were on offer for the tasting.

Deb and Tom Cooney

— JAMES PETER

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

LONGBOAT KEY 876 Tarawitt Drive 4 Beds 3 Baths 2,894 Sq. Ft. Brian Loebker & Jonathan Abrams 941-735-4393 A4564430 $6,500,000

LONGBOAT KEY 603 Buttonwood Drive 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,413 Sq. Ft. Mackenzie Longueuil & Pat Mudgett 941-961-4023 A4570575 $3,950,000

LONGBOAT KEY 6533 Bayou Hammock Road 2 Beds 2 Baths 862 Sq. Ft. Robert Dardas 941-376-7591 A4570106 $3,600,000

LONGBOAT KEY 718 Linley Street 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 3,688 Sq. Ft. Matthew Voss 941-237-0877 A4568823 $3,000,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3010 Grand Bay Boulevard 493 2 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,550 Sq. Ft. Michael Nink, Pa & Sandi Layfield 941-914-2805 A4566091 $2,997,000

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 3590 Fair Oaks Lane 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,957 Sq. Ft. Deborah Schlener & JoDene Moneuse 651-894-3916 A4564100 $2,975,000

LONGBOAT KEY 699 Penfield Street 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,536 Sq. Ft. Cathy Meldahl, Pa & Susan Smith 941-724-7228 A4560631 $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 535 Sanctuary Drive B205 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,590 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy, PA & Gail Wittig, LLC 941-961-8850 A4570237 $2,375,000

LONGBOAT KEY 793 Jungle Queen Way 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,688 Sq. Ft. The Walter Group 941-809-0907 A4569591 $2,299,000

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 524 Halyard Lane 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,668 Sq. Ft. The Walter Group 941-809-0907 A4561273 $1,899,000

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 1055 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 205 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,503 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy, PA & Gail Wittig, LLC 941-961-8850 A4571524 $1,795,000

LONGBOAT KEY 628 Lyons Lane Jodene Moneuse 941-302-4913 A4565151 $1,695,000

LONGBOAT KEY 1910 Harbourside Drive 501 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,135 Sq. Ft. Judy Nimz 941-374-0196 A4561559 $1,685,000

LONGBOAT KEY 2217 Harbourside Drive 302 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,448 Sq. Ft. Julie Klick & Beverly St Hilaire 941-780-6001 A4571571 $1,399,000

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 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 1085 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 305 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,819 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy, PA & Gail Wittig, LLC 941-961-8850 A4556271 $1,045,000

LONGBOAT KEY 4234 Gulf Of Mexico Drive G2 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,636 Sq. Ft. Mark J Baron 631-800-1125 A4568318 $995,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3080 Grand Bay Boulevard 515 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,276 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy, PA & Gail Wittig, LLC 941-961-8850 A4570436 $935,000

LONGBOAT KEY 448 Gulf Of Mexico Drive A106 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,474 Sq. Ft. Diana Kryszak & Philip Pisano, III 941-993-4078 A4568837 $724,900

LONGBOAT KEY 600 Sutton Place 201 1 Bed 1 Baths 836 Sq. Ft. Sherri Mills 941-350-7112 A4571482 $468,000

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

LONGBOAT KEY 648 Bayview Drive 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 4,157 Sq. Ft. The Walter Group 941-232-2000 A4567089 $5,495,000

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM 401859-1

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

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

REAL ESTATE

Bird Key home tops this week’s sales at $11.25 million

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

MAY 29-JUNE 2

ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR

T

he following residential real estate transactions took place between May 29 and June 2. A home on Bird Key tops all transactions in this week’s real estate.

Henry and Dawn Duques, of Madison, Connecticut, sold their home at 626 S. Owl Drive to H. Lee Scott Jr. and Linda Scott, trustees, of Golden Oak, for $11.25 million. Built in 2021, it has six bedrooms, eight baths, a pool and 6,576 square feet of living area.

BIRD KEY

Julie McGue, of Michigan City, Indiana, sold the home at 622 S. Owl Drive to Cumberland Trust and Investment Co., trustee, for $9.75 million. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, four-and-a-half baths, a pool and 5,635 square feet of living area. It sold for $6 million in 2021.

Warbler LLC sold the home at 114 N. Warbler Lane to James Gross and Carol Gross, trustees, of St. Charles, Illinois, for $3.1 million.

Built in 1961, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,936 square feet of living area. It sold for $3 million in March.

LIDO

Robert and Susan Lifeso, trustees, of Sarasota, sold the home at to Kenneth and Carrie Cox and Andrew Cox, of Sarasota, for $7.5 million. Built in 2000, it has six bedrooms, six-and-two-half baths, a pool and 6,843 square feet of living area. It sold for $3.8 million in 2005.

SANCTUARY AT LONGBOAT KEY CLUB

John and Jane Vorel sold their Unit A-402 condominium at 545 Sanctuary Drive to Teresa Rosenbeck, of Longboat Key, for $3.06 million.

Built in 1991, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,580 square feet of living area. It sold for $705,000 in 1996.

THE TIDES OF LONGBOAT

William Dobbling, trustee, of Southgate, Kentucky, sold the Unit 203 condominium at 5555 Gulf of

11B

James Peter

This house at 626 S. Owl Drive recently sold for $11.25 million, setting a new record for the most expensive home sale on Bird Key.

Mexico Drive to Mark Knue and Ellen Kantor-Knue, of Cincinnati, for $1.7 million. Built in 1980, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 1,828 square feet of living area. It sold for $879,000 in 2004.

TANGERINE BAY CLUB

David and Laura Atchison, of Oak Brook, Illinois, sold their Unit 412 condominium at 370 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Christopher Powers, trustee, of Columbus, Ohio, for $1.6 million. Built in 1994, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,380 square feet of living area.

It sold for $1.5 million in 2022.

THE AQUARIUS CLUB

William Francis Morneau Jr., of Ontario, Canada, sold the Unit 3-E condominium at 1701 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Nektarios Arvanitis, of Elmhurst, Illinois, for $1.15 million.

Built in 1975, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,615 square feet of living area. It sold for $500,000 in 2018.

HARBOUR VILLA CLUB AT BUCCANEER

LONGBEACH ON LONGBOAT KEY

Mark and Mary King, of Plainfield, Illinois, sold their Unit 101 condominium at 615 Dream Island Place to Thomas and Rose Brown, of Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, for $1.05 million. Built in 1985, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,514 square feet of living area. It sold for $614,300 in 2020.

PORTOBELLO

Michael and Charlotte Balog, trustees, of Bradenton, sold the Unit B-307 condominium at 3240 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Portobello B307 LLC for $950,000. Built in 1975, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,290 square feet of living area. It sold for $526,500 in 2020.

Tomasz and Renata Niewiadomski, of Brewster, New York, sold their Unit 5-E condominium at 1701 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Jeffrey Potter, of Longboat Key, for $1.1 million. Built in 1975, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,615 square feet of living area. It sold for $542,500 in 2018.

Christopher Claypoole and Nedra Foster and Nedra Duffy, of Longboat Key, sold their home at 770 Russell St. to Nancy Toon, of Southampton, New York, for $860,000. Built in 1963, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 1,352 square feet of living area. It sold for $550,000 in 2019.

LONGBOAT ARMS

Sapphire Consulting LLC sold the Unit 208-C condominium at 3320 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Longboat Arms 208C LLC for $490,000. Built in 1971, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,154 square feet of living area. It sold for $309,000 in 2020.

In with the new NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION

CLUB LONGBOAT BEACH AND TENNIS

Leslie Wilczewski, of W. Bloomfield Township, Michigan, sold the Unit 521 condominium at 5055 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Richard Peter Rowe and Pamela Stites, of Longboat Key, for $1.06 million. Built in 1973, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,718 square feet of living area. It sold for $550,000 in 2001.

Downtown St. Petersburg

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

TOP BUILDING PERMITS These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of June 2-8 in order of dollar amounts.

Longboat Key

LONGBOAT KEY Address

Permit

Applicant

629 Kingfisher Lane

New Construction

Francisco Family Tr.

$3,000,400

Amount

569 Kingfisher Lane

New Construction

Christopher Price

$2,578,917

2450 Harbourside Drive #243 Alt/Renovation

William B. Bierce

$325,000

2301 Gulf of Mexico Drive #46N Alt/Renovation

Ritchie Hall

$300,000

540 Harbor Gate Way

Alt/Renovation

William F. Hadley

$250,000

5135 Gulf of Mexico Drive

Roof

Seascape

$276,735

1105 Gulf of Mexico Drive #503 Alt/Renovation

Edward D. Viner

$111,383

380 Gulf of Mexico Drive

Tangerine Bay Club

$105,000

Roof

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

Association 340 Gulf of Mexico Drive 1A

Roof

Tangerine Bay Club

Downtown Sarasota

$105,000

Association 1620 Harbor Cay Lane

Mechanical

Christopher J. Donato $100,000

551 Harbor Point Road

Roof

James and Valerie

$94,030

Brown 548 Cutter Lane

Dock/Seawall/Lift

Robert Randall Griffith

551 Broadway

Swimming Pool/Spa 551 Broadway LLC

$66,399 $58,000

2450 Harbourside Drive #243 Electrical

William B. Bierce

$53,000

3030 Grand Bay Blvd. #354

Katharine Pan

$51,000

Alt/Renovation

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

Revocable Mechanical

Green Heron

$50,000

Development Source: Sarasota County, city of Sarasota

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

Licensed Real Estate Broker

401835-1

610 Longview Drive

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

Exceptional Service by your Neighborhood REALTOR®,

SOLD

YOUR CALENDAR

12B

JoDene Moneuse

$2,500,000

LONGBOAT KEY

Exceptional canal front home.

3342 Gulf of Mexico Drive

SOLD

COMMUNITY

BEST BET

MONDAY, JUNE 19

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21

MATINEE MOVIE 1 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Free for members; $15 for nonmembers. Join in the fun for the second movie in the Paradise Center Summer Movie Series.

Enjoy fresh popcorn and a great film, “Jerry & Marge Go Large.”

IMPROV FOR EVERYONE 1-2 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. $10 for members; $20 for nonmembers. Taught by Will Luera of the Florida Studio Theatre, this fun and fast-paced class will teach participants to think on their feet. The class will also help build confidence and boost creative thinking. Register by June 19 by calling 383-6493.

RECURRING EVENTS MONDAYS

STRETCH AND STRENGTHEN From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. This class is mostly seated and great for all fitness levels Focus is on strength training and flexibility for balance.

Suzy Brenner leads the class. Fee is $15. Walk-ins welcome. Call 3836493.

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND SATURDAYS

$1,050,000

$1,450,000 LONGBOAT KEY

LONGBOAT KEY

Vacant canal front land with a 50 ft. dock.

628 Lyons Lane MLS#A4565151

SOL

Quintessential beach house, reimagined Captains cottage.

450 Firehouse Court MLS#A4564974

Situated on 100x100 canal front lot. The lowest priced waterfront property on Longboat Key. 530 DeNarvaez Drive MLS#A4553308

563 Bay Isles Road. To learn more, call Nancy Rozance at 203-6054066 or email Info@LongboatKeyRotary.org.

TUESDAYS

QI GONG From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Qi gong is a mind-body-spirit practice designed to improve mental and physical health. Class is outdoors, weather permitting. Cost is $15.

Walk-ins welcome. Call 383-6493.

D

$1,280,000 LONGBOAT KEY

LONGBOAT KEY

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

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

$895,000

941.302.4913 JoDeneMoneuse@michaelsaunders.com LongboatKeyLiving.com 401289-1

• 2019-2022 Five Star in Customer Service Award Winner • Institute for Luxury Home Marketing Million Dollar GUILD

WEDNESDAYS

BEGINNER TAI CHI From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Class is outdoors, weather permitting. Cost is $15. Walk-ins welcome. Call 3836493.

MARIACHI MUSIC From 5-8 p.m. at La Villa Mexican Grill, 5610 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Enjoy dinner and a serenade by Mariachi Contemporaneo. Call 383-8033.

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

• 34 year Longboat Key Resident

• 2019-2022 Top Agent - Michael Saunders Mid Longboat Key office

LONGBOAT LIBRARY From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays, 555 Bay Isles Road. Call 383-2011.

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

Debbie Debile of Feel Good Yoga & Massage leads a gentle yoga class that can be done on a mat or in a chair. Cost is $15; free for members.

Call 383-6493.

Beautiful 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath condo behind the gates of Bay Isles in Harbour Oaks Longboat Key. 2115 Harbourside Drive MLS#4566654

• Top 1.5% of Florida Realtors - Real Trends America’s Best Real Estate Agents

TUESDAYS AND FRIDAYS

FRIDAYS

INTERMEDIATE TAI CHI From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Outside if weather permitting. Free for members; $15 for others.

ROTARY CLUB Meets at 5 p.m. on first and third Tuesdays in All Angels Parish Hall,

INFINITE POSSIBILITIES. ONE SOURCE.™

TILE & STONE

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MOSAICS

CABINETRY

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FLOORING

FLORIDADESIGNWORKS.COM

INFINITE POSSIBILITIES. ONE SOURCE. ™ 941.355.2703

|

4500 Carmichael Ave., Sarasota, FL 34234

403990-1

VISIT OUR SARASOTA SHOWROOM

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13B

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

SUNRISE / SUNSET

FRIDAY, JUNE 16

WEATHER

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

FORECAST

Sunrise Sunset

High: 87 Low: 80 Chance of rain: 15%

Thursday, June 15

6:35a

8:26p

Friday, June 16

6:35a

8:27p

Saturday, June 17

6:35a

8:27p

Sunday, June 18

6:35a

8:27p

SATURDAY, JUNE 17

Monday, June 19

6:35a

8:28p

High: 86 Low: 79 Chance of rain: 54%

Tuesday, June 20

6:35a

8:28p

Wednesday, June 21

6:36a

8:28p

MOON PHASES SUNDAY, JUNE 18 High: 87 Low: 79 Chance of rain: 47%

June 17 New

June 26 First

July 3 Full

July 9 Last

TIDES Highs Lows

Blake Fleetwood captured this photo of a sunset on Longboat Key.

Thursday, June 15

12:18a

10:01a

4:04a

6:40p

Friday, June 16

1:33a

10:32a

4:22a

7:22p

Saturday, June 17

11:05a

—

—

8:03p

Sunday, June 18

11:40a

—

—

8:41p

Monday, June 9

—

12:17p

—

9:19p

Tuesday, June 20

—

12:57p

—

9:56p

Wednesday, June 21

—

1:40p

—

10:34p

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.

at MANASOTA FLOORING INC Sarasota 941.355.8437 | Bradenton 941.748.4679 | Venice 941.493.7441 | manasotaonline.com

KITCHEN | CABINETRY OUTDOOR PAVERS

Flooring Made for your Family

celebrity cipher

ACROSS 1 Ally played by Calista Flockhart 7 “I can’t take this anymore!”

11 Savage X Fenty purchase 14 Title for Branagh or Caine 17 “La Cerveza Mas Fina” beers 19 Princess sporting “cinnamon buns” 20 Hankering 21 Undercover garb?

22 Property co-owners 24 Terrible twos outbursts 26 Auto pioneer Ransom 27 Academic acronym 28 Deet 30 Hall & ___

31 Like Teddy Roosevelt’s stick 32 Professional fixers 36 Slow-cooked meal 38 Not at work (Abbr.)

39 Secluded valley 40 Word that forces some smiles 41 “Who knew?”

43 It’s often inflated 44 Goldfish in “Pinocchio” 46 Deal-busting grp.

47 Engaging in youthful flings 55 Senior’s elaborate invite 56 Big name in vacuums 57 Numbered musical creation 61 Be under the weather 62 Like an unkempt hearth

93 Laudatory poem 63 Oscar-winner Laura 94 Like some cheap wine 65 Just plain silly 96 Garden store supply 66 Gun the engine 67 Go headlong after one’s 98 Vegas opener?

100 “Not true!” dreams 104 Air Force Academy 72 LG alternative locale 73 Move furtively 108 You can’t make one 75 Winery containers 76 Like the “American Idol” alone 109 Lopez of Latin pop logo 110 Twitter screed 77 Cancun sun 111 Everglades wader 78 Crafter’s website 113 Louvre’s “___ Lisa” 79 Caped sidekick 114 Waiting-in-line talk 82 Double-dealing 116 Comfy leggings ... and a 84 Where to learn life hint to the circled letters lessons 88 Commander in the White 120 Creepy stare 121 “Alas,” in Berlin House, for one 122 Turquoise cousin 91 Bale-ful place?

123 “Get the job done!”

92 MSN alternative

“HFM PYDX WF XYW, ZAXXV YET LKXYWPX HFMK VYZZOFE, YET SOBPW SFK VXKSXUWOFE XDXKH ZWXV FS WPX JYH.”

TYEUXK YLLH AXX NOAAXK

“D ... NDMV FHAVU FYH PVG VAHGDHUKN KOHCG OKODVT KUB XCXXDVT. ... GYV FHAKU JHC AKSSJ TYHCNB YKWV K SVKNNJ THRG TDBV.” IYSDT VWKUT

“SYA NCVI XG SYA LVRXSLVC HLGXIL. ...

CXGRHL RS XR! HKHAJ GRVA UVG V RSLIYH, HKHAJ GRAXZH XG VARXFYCVRH.” © 2023 NEA, Inc.

ASOHAR F. TXLRUASZ

sudoku

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

©2023 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

402030-1

©2023 Universal Uclick

singer Loretta 54 Archie, to Prince Harry 58 Interstellar distance 59 Open up a cab?

127 Barista’s creations 60 They rival Sertas DOWN 63 It’ll clean your pipes 1 Low-paying positions, in 64 Finish a course slang 65 Kitchen feature 2 “Calm down!”

68 Sermon topic 3 Bank connection?

69 See 107-Down 4 A long time 70 Early Roman poet 5 Crumb-toter 71 Knuckleheads 6 Rower’s muscles, briefly 74 Regretful cries 7 Budget competitor 79 “Mary Tyler Moore” 8 Kylo of “Star Wars” spinoff 9 “Scram!”

80 Gut punch reaction 10 Red tape, for example 81 Web nuisance 11 Data storage units 82 “Cooking With ___” 12 Get in touch with (“Today” show segment) 13 Cleeves behind “Vera” 83 December standard and “Shetland” 85 Vicar or chaplain 14 Did some browning 86 Carnival cousin 15 Involve fully 87 Colorful Hindu festival 16 Primary location for 88 Easily shaped or some Adelie penguins influenced 18 Sandbox scrap 89 Coming from Amazon 21 Shipping container 90 Israeli sea 23 Infamous Roman fiddler 95 One who’s done for 25 High on the Scoville 96 Phishing target, often scale, for many 97 Decides one will 29 Crossword tool for the 98 Letters of Pride confident 99 Avia rival 33 Aussie footwear brand 101 Defensive denial 34 Setback 102 Broadway’s Mame 35 Most of the globe 103 Celebrity comic 37 Passing fancy tributes 38 “Did I do that?”

105 Harry’s Hogwarts 42 Empty one’s baggage, nemesis emotionally or otherwise 106 Hand-on-Bible declara43 Sushi selection tions 44 Concert stack 107 With 69-Down, a Nobel45 Head of Eton ist in physics 47 Widely scattered 112 Silverstein of kid lit 48 “Murder on the ___ 113 Bomer of “Fellow Express” Travelers” 49 “The Jungle Book” pack 115 Pineapple’s pizza 50 Labor watchdog org. partner 51 Verbal dissents 117 TV’s Lasso 52 Elba of “Luther” 118 “Awesome!”

53 “Coal Miner’s Daughter” 119 Food-fight missile

Puzzle Three Clue: K equals V

124 Before, before 125 Def of hip-hop 126 Some track figures

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

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

Puzzle Two Clue: R equals F

LEG WARMERS by Pam Amick Klawitter, edited by Jeff Chen

Puzzle One Clue: B equals G

crossword

399481-1

We have all of your luxury flooring needs carpet | hardwood | tile | stone | pavers | and more

6-15-23

Made for where you live. Here!

THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888 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.

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

RED PAGES IN PRINT AND ONLINE

Adult Care Services

1BR/1BA 1350 Main St, in heart of Downtown Sarasota. Beautiful 3rd floor, turn key, furnished condo in upscale building overlooking main street.

Amenities include: concierge, reserved in-building parking, pool, fitness center, and more.

Available for seasonal rental starting June 1 through Sept. $3,500/mo. Includes all.

Call George: 516-993-3324.

A POWERFUL COMBINATION 941-955-4888

YourObserver.com/RedPages WEEKLY MONTHLY SEASONAL RATES Beachfront, Bayfront and In Between

941-955-4888

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

YourObserver.com/RedPages

LOCK BOX, fire proof with key, 13X8X7 $15. Charlie’s Angels trading card, 1st set $40.

941-741-9727

auto

Boat Slips for Rent/Sale 48’X21’ BOAT SLIP P07, at Long Boat Key moorings FOR SALE! Slip runs north and south, and provides views of Sarasota Bay. Asking $250,000 and will consider respectful offers.

Slip does not require membership at the moorings.

PH: 941-724-9486 LONGBOAT KEY MOORINGS 2630 Harbourside Dr., Longboat Key 65 Foot Deep Water Boat Slip For Sale. $350,000.00 Please call Jennifer 727-831-3133

Use the RED PAGES to clean out your garage

CALL 941-955-4888

4BR/3BA PALMA SOLA, Bradenton Luxury modern home with in-law suite. Open floor plan.

New kitchen w/pantry, coffee bar, granite counters, 3 baths, tiled floors, hurricane windows and doors, energy efficient, garage, free standing shed/workshop with electric, large fenced yard with mature trees and landscaping, irrigation system. -House is blocks from Palma Sola Bay basin and three miles to the world famous Anna Maria Island beaches. $4100 per month. (813) 362-5881 Use the RED PAGES to clean out your garage

Autos Wanted CASH FOR YOUR CAR We come to you!

Ho Ho Buys cars.

941-270-4400.

DESPERATELY NEEDED Low mileage, cars and trucks.

Also rare or unusual vehicles.

Larry 941-350-7993 STORAGE FACILITY Boat/ RV/ Trailer. Secure facility, low monthly rentals, Clark Rd area.

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

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

Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

Reservations 941-383-5577 wagnerlbkrentals@gmail.com Visa/MC 5360 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Suite 101 Longboat Key, FL 34228 Rental office 9a.m. - 5p.m.

M-F Ask about our special rates!

Wagner Realty

CALL 941-955-4888

Since 1939

Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals

www.rentalsonlongboat.com

LONGBOAT KEY: Beachfront Condos, 1st or 2nd floor, 2BR/2BA, W/D in units, free Wi-Fi, heated pool, & parking.

Call 941-383-3338.

You’re only cheating yourself.

PANINI MAKER Cuisinart, like new, stainless steel $50 (941) 920-2494

Homes for Rent

peekers’ place

Items Under $200

Houses or Condos

RED PAGES Made for where you live. Here!

Call 941-955-4888 or visit YourObserver.com/redpages

SELL IT FAST! Place Your Ad Online YourObserver.com/RedPages

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

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

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

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

Honest & reliable.

Free estimates. 941-744-1020.

35+ years experience.

SELL YOUR STUFF HERE! SARASOTA INTERIOR PAINTING HIGH-END INTERIOR PAINTING WE ARE THE BEST!!!

Fully Insured.

CALL or TEXT Don 941-900-9398

This week’s Crossword answers

Advertise your business or service in the Observer

RED PAGES CALL TODAY 941-955-4888

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “You have to eat, sleep and breathe your passion, and fight for perfection every step of the way.”

Dancer Abby Lee Miller Puzzle Two Solution: “I ... like women who get emotional about babies and puppies. ... The woman you marry should have a really soft side.”

Chris Evans Puzzle Three Solution: “Our flag is our national ensign. ... Listen to it!

Every star has a tongue, every stripe is articulate.”

Robert C. Winthrop

This week’s Sudoku answers

©2023 Universal Uclick

TREASURES found here.

Looking for something?

Your lucky discovery is closer than you think.

CNA: 22 years experience, with doctors recommendations.

Available for days, nights, and traveling. COVID vaccinated.

941-536-5339

©2023 NEA, Inc.

stuff

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

real estate

Merchandise Wanted

home services

Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals

redpages@yourobserver.com • yourobserver.com/redpages

The CRYSTAL CLEAR choice!

RED PAGES

YourObserver.com

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

Health

MediCupping & Massage Therapy services for healing Rest your mind & body. Connect with your spirit.

Do You Have Neck or Low Back Pain?

Do You Want To Avoid Surgery?

Give Us a Call - We Can Help

SARASOTA INTERIOR PAINTING, LLC

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

High-End Interior Painting Services

DR. DAVID CIFRA, DC

FULLY INSURED • OWNER OPERATED

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

William J. Leininger, JD

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

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

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.com

Auto Service

Home Watch

Kenneth Fuhlman Inc.

FAST • EASY • SAFE

WE COME TO YOU 5-Star Rated

941-626-3194

Licensed & Insured CCC - 058059 CBC - 1253936 1/10/23, 10:25 AM

BLACK LABEL CAR SERVICE

FIRST RESPONDER OWNED & OPERATED

DESPERATELY NEEDED

Luxury for Less

10% off

Low Mileage, Cars & Trucks.

Also Rare or Unusual Vehicles.

941-248-4734

All Airports, Hourly & Tours www.blacklabelcarservice.com

(941)544-0475 dan@shorelockhomewatch.com

Sliding Glass Door Repair

Res./Com. 404181

404782

Windows

Doors

RED PAGES

www.shorelockhomewatch.com

“FIX IT - DON’T REPLACE”

404187

Booked Referral Program Next Ride with Booked Referral

UNIQUE SPORT & IMPORTS 941-350-7993

BOOST YOUR BUSINESS Showcase your products or services.

CALL 941-955-4888

Insurance 404177

MIC INSURANCE

Furniture Repair

Patio Furniture Repairs.com 404970

Furniture Sales & Repairs Cushions • Slings • Re-powdercoating

EXPERIENCE KNOWLEDGE SOLUTIONS

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

FREE PICKUP / DELIVERY • FREE ONSITE QUOTES

GROW

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

YOUR BUSINESS

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Transportation

404191

404176

CALL PINNACLE TODAY! 941-306-1999

Autos Wanted

Call to reserve your ad space: 941-955-4888 YourObserver.com/RedPages

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

Dave and Connie Grundy

HoHoBuysCars.com

941-504-0903

Building & Roofing Contractor

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

SELL YOUR CAR!

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

Roofing

404379

404288

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

404786

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

LMT, CMCE

Painting

FREE CONSULTATION 941.358.2224

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

Chrissy Stites

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

404186

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.

404790

Heart & Sole Healing Space, LLC

GET YOUR LIFE BACK!

Divorce without Lawyers

941.270.4400

Massage

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Lic./Ins.

ndow & Pressure Clea et Wi nin s n wn as Sunrise Win g Su erly kno d Form Serving Longboat Key Since 2005

25

UP TO

STANDARD WINDOWS

ows

150

$

INCLUDING SCREENS, TRACKS, MIRRORS & FANS

SPECIAL 00 5

$

senior citizen discount. www.sunsetwindowcleaningsrq.com

Purified water window cleaning available!!

Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES | 941- 284 - 5880

404385

Attorney

RIGHT ON TARGET

Home • Condo • Auto • Umbrella • Boat • Flood

Advertise your business, starting at only $85 per month.

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

OBSERVER RED PAGES

Call 941-955-4888 YourObserver.com/RedPages

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!

404192

Sandra Smith | 941.383.3388

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023

ROGER SELLS LUXURY WATERFRONT PROPERTIES #1 SARASOTA SINGLE AGENT 2008, 2010, 2012 - 2022

1325 WESTWAY DRIVE

$15,000,000

1642 SHORELAND DRIVE

$1,895,000

This enchanting 3BR + office and family room residence guides you through meticulously landscaped grounds consisting of three distinct courtyards, majestic live oaks, vibrant tropical foliage, exotic bamboo, graceful papyrus, intricate lattice accents, a charming gazebo, and welllit pathways.

www.1642Shoreland.com

3030 GRAND BAY BOULEVARD #346 $2,595,000

3030 GRAND BAY BOULEVARD #316 $2,495,000

Panoramic direct views of Sarasota Bay, Harbourside golf course and downtown’s skyline are the star of the show as soon as you enter this lovely 3BR Antigua getaway.

Prepare to be enchanted by the stunning, awe-inspiring views that await at this luxurious 3BR Grand Bay residence.

Fall in love with its sprawling 2,925 SF and modern updates.

www.GrandBay346.com

www.GrandBay316.com

3040 GRAND BAY BOULEVARD #251 $2,295,000

201 NORTH WASHINGTON DRIVE

Sunny bay views welcome you to this 5th-floor, nearly 3,000 SF retreat, featuring an open, 3BR layout waiting for you to add your personal touches. Includes private beach!

The walkable location of this St. Armands home will immediately draw you in. Ideally situated on an oversized, 1/4-acre lot for you to design your dream home.

www.GrandBay251.com

www.201NorthWashington.com

Step into this tropical escape through the hidden courtyard that connects the 3BR main home to the private 2BR guest house, as the perfect introduction to a contemporary masterpiece designed by DSDG Architect Mark Sultana and built by Voigt Brothers Construction.

www.1325WestwayDrive.com

415 L’AMBIANCE DRIVE #PH-A

$2,195,000

$12,000,000

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.

www.415L’AmbiancePHA.com

816 JUNGLE QUEEN WAY

7652 SANDERLING ROAD

$1,599,000

235 COCOANUT AVENUE #125D

$995,000

Turnkey furnished! This lovely 3BR waterfront on Longboat Key is ready to enjoy! You will love the deeded beach access and easy boating access to Sarasota Bay.

Only a few minutes from downtown Sarasota, this townhome is in a central location. You’ll feel right at home with its contemporary 2BR design and move-in ready condition.

www.816JungleQueenWay.com

www.MarqueeEnVille125D.com

$9,995,000

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 beach and striking sunset vistas from any room.

9150 BLIND PASS ROAD #505

www.7652Sanderling.com

469 EAST ROYAL FLAMINGO DRIVE

$3,595,000

$839,000

173 CIPRIANI WAY

$549,000

Beautiful recent updates (include added square feet, impact windows) and sunny water views create the perfect spot to move right into at this FURNISHED, 2BR beach-to-bay getaway.

You will love the convenience of moving right into this wellmaintained home, with its sunny, open interior, 3BR+den layout, and many resort-style amenities a short walk away.

www.FishermansHaven505.com

www.173CiprianiWay.com

5693 CABRERA COURT

$499,000

549 SUTTON PLACE

$499,000

Move right into this beautifully maintained, waterfront Bird Key home. The light and open layout is spread across nearly 3,300 SF, offering access to outdoor entertaining from nearly every room.

Boaters will appreciate the newer seawall, rebuilt dock and deep-water lift.

Constructed by DiVosta Homes, this exquisite 3BR townhome on the exclusive grounds of Palmer Ranch, offers a private courtyard lifestyle that exudes beauty, light, and warmth.

Indulge in the best of both worlds at this beach-to-bay townhome at Sutton Place on Longboat Key. Offered furnished and move-in ready, with deeded beach access.

www.469EastRoyalFlamingo.com

www.5693CabreraCourt.com

www.549SuttonPlace.com

CALL TODAY FOR YOUR EXCLUSIVE TOUR (941) 387-1840 443 John Ringling Boulevard, Suite F | Sarasota, FL 34236 Pettingell.com | www.bestSarasotarealestate.net Twitter.com/RealRoger | Instagram.com/RogerPettingell | Roger@Pettingell.com The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2023 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. 401525-1

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