Longboat Observer 8.17.23

LONGBOAT

Observer

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Longboat Key’s weekly newspaper since 1978

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FREE • THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

VOLUME 46, NO. 2

YOUR TOWN

Crunch-time purchasing St. Armands BID met to make its final spending decisions before its Sept. 30 sunset. SEE PAGE 4

Carter Weinhofer

Checkout changes arrive at Publix If you’ve been to the grocery store recently, chances are you noticed the construction just inside the entrance of Publix at Bay Isles Parkway.

But now the construction tape has disappeared, and a new addition has taken its place, which should help customers get in and out of the store in faster fashion.

The Longboat grocery store now boasts modern self-checkout stations available for its customers.

Four self-checkout machines are now open for business in between the customer service desk and the standard checkout lanes.

The standard checkout lanes are still open for customers who still want to have a more personal shopping experience with a friendly store clerk handling the scanning and bagging duties.

HELPING HANDS Mote’s fall volunteer program lets high schoolers share a love for marine science. SEE PAGE 18

Free lunch for first responders Some say there’s no such thing as a free lunch, but the Longboat Island Chapel turned the old saying on its head — at least for a day and for a group of the town’s hardest workers.

The chapel hosted a free lunch for the Longboat Key Police Department staff on Aug. 3.

Five employees from the Police Department came to the chapel at 11:30 a.m.

The chapel provided a lunch from Firehouse Subs. Chapel members also brought homemade desserts.

Chapel members and police employees mingled and enjoyed each other’s company during the lunch.

Recently, it has been a priority of chapel members to honor first responders. On Aug. 1, a group of them spent time at the Longboat Key Fire Department.

The chapel plans to continue to do anything it can to show appreciation for all the hard work that the first responders do for the island of Longboat Key.

Turtle tracks LONGBOAT July 30 - Aug. 5 2023 Nests 5 False crawls 5

Petra Rivera

Jackson McLeod, a high school volunteer for Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, helps a camper with her goggles.

A+E

Dirty jobs Before sunrise, Public Works is already cleaning up beach access.

SEE PAGE 3

2022 25 19

Totals since April 23 2023 2022 Nests 994 1,281 False crawls 1,294 1.514 Source: Mote Marine Laboratory

Carter Weinhofer

Matt Ballew and fellow Public Works staff members rotate trash cleanup duties at Longboat’s public beach access points.

Making Amends.

PAGE 12

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

Get to know Longboat’s new officers The officers arrived from Indiana and New York and were drawn to the Key’s culture.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

T

wo police officers, Adam Swinford and Mike Rizzo, started their Longboat Key Police Department careers this month. On Aug. 14, the two were officially sworn in.

OFFICER ADAM SWINFORD

Originally from Indiana, Officer Adam Swinford, 33, comes to Longboat Key with seven years of law enforcement experience and three years in corrections.

Swinford graduated from Indiana State University in 2012 with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Following graduation, he was hired by the Indiana Department of Corrections to work at Indiana’s largest state prison. After two years there, he worked at another prison for a year before starting as an officer in Peru, Indiana.

Swinford then spent four years in that department and another three years in a department near Kokomo, Indiana. During those years, he served as a field training officer, training new recruits and showing them the ropes.

“You teach them basically how to walk as a police officer,” Swinford said.

He’s wanted to come south for a couple years, and now, he is ready to

become a part of the Longboat Key community. He was drawn to the size of the department and community, and the community policing aspect.

“I can focus more on helping the community, being a part of the community that really appreciates you,” Swinford said. “And I’ve definitely gotten that vibe so far.”

Aside from the job, Swinford is looking forward to living in an area where there’s so much to do outside.

He’s excited to enjoy the weather and the beaches, and said he didn’t know if he wanted to do any more winters in Indiana.

Swinford is also a competitive softball player, playing for a police softball circuit. He said he meets officers from all over as he travels the country. It’s also helped him relieve some stress from the job.

“Being a police officer does get stressful at times,” Swinford said.

“So it’s a good way to divert your attention and focus on sports and hanging out with all the guys.”

So far, Swinford said he has liked the morale throughout the Longboat Key Police Department and thinks this will be a good fit for him to continue his law enforcement career.

OFFICER MIKE RIZZO

Ten years ago, Officer Mike Rizzo was slinging pizzas in Highland, New York. Then came nine years working for the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office

Courtesy Photo

New Longboat Key Police Officers Adam Swinford, middle, and Mike Rizzo, right, recite the oath led by Chief of Police George Turner, left.

in New York. After that, Rizzo made the decision to move to Florida and start with the Longboat Key Police Department.

Rizzo, 32, said he was always interested in law enforcement and helping people.

“I like the fact that people can rely on me,” Rizzo said. “When there’s an incident or something like that and you’re able to fulfill those needs, it’s very rewarding.”

Back in New York, Rizzo worked alongside Sgt. Adam Montfort in the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office before Montfort came to work for Longboat Key. Montfort told Rizzo to look into the Longboat Key Police Department, and Rizzo was impressed.

“The location was beautiful, the people are great and there’s respect for law enforcement,” Rizzo said.

In New York, Rizzo was also a part of the marine patrol unit. He’s not on the waters of Longboat Key yet,

“I can focus more on helping the community, being a part of the community that really appreciates you. And I’ve definitely gotten that vibe so far.”

though he’s interested in it.

After about two weeks on the job, Rizzo said he had already met great co-workers and members of the community. But he said Longboat Key has been a culture shock for him, in a good way.

“I’m not dealing with the gangs that I was back at home,” Rizzo said.

“This first week has been an eyeopener to see how other agencies operate, other than just being in the county I was in for nine years.”

In the future, Rizzo hopes to work up the chain of command in the department. He is looking forward to helping out members of the community and getting to know them on a personal level.

“I want them to be able to know my name just by seeing me,” Rizzo said. “I want to show my face enough where they know me as a result.”

Rizzo also hopes to soak in the sun and enjoy some Florida fishing.

— Adam Swinford

“I like the fact that people can rely on me. When there’s an incident or something like that and you’re able to fulfill those needs, it’s very rewarding.”

— Mike Rizzo

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

Photos by Carter Weinhofer

Matt Ballew prefers getting the trash run done before the sun rises and other cars at the access points get in the way.

DAWN PATROL Public Works staff battle overflowing garbage cans, discarded furniture and litterers to keep Longboat beach access points tidy.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

M

att Ballew doesn’t mind starting his trash

run at 6 a.m.

The sun isn’t up yet, so he’ll beat the heat.

He pulls up to the Longboat Key Public Works building a few minutes before 6 a.m.

No time is wasted as he walks from his car to the back gate to get the white Ford F-150 pickup truck. Behind the truck is a towable, green dumpster.

The first stop is the boat ramp near the north end of the island. Ballew dons a headlamp as he opens each of the trash cans. He examines the contents of each, lifting the lighter cans and emptying the contents into the more filled ones. Like dominoes falling, he goes down the line like this so he only has to lift one or two cans above his head and into the towable dumpster.

Just like that, the first stop is done in about two minutes. He hops back into his truck and heads to the next stop — the Broadway Street Public Beach Access.

Ballew has been with the town of Longboat Key for about six months.

Aside from trash duty, which he has to do on a rotation, he manages Bayfront Park, helps with the mowing route and responds to roadkill cleanup.

The entire trash route usually takes him about two hours, he says, three on holidays.

“We’ll fill up one of these pretty quickly,” he says, pointing to the dumpster.

During the busy holiday weekends,

Ballew says the inconvenient part is having to haul a full dumpster back to Public Works mid-route.

At the second stop of the morning, Ballew finds the first of two pop-up tents that day. Items like that and lightly used beach chairs are commonly found by the public beach access trash cans. It’s mostly people that fly in to visit, he guesses.

He spot cleans every site he stops at, checking the surrounding area for any trash that was left in the parking lot or around the cans. At one, he finds a used diaper, something he says is also pretty common.

Around 6:30 a.m., the sun peeks over the horizon, giving Ballew enough light to eventually turn off his headlamp. He works his way to the last stop, at Overlook Park.

With every trash can he empties, he turns his face away.

You don’t want anything splattering on you, he said.

The route is finished at 7:15 a.m., just over an hour after he started.

“Good day for me,” Ballew says.

Not having to unload the dumpster halfway through the route saved him about 30 minutes.

SIMPLE STRATEGIES

Mark Richardson starts every morning around 6:30 a.m., as the streets, facilities, parks and recreation manager for Longboat Key. He’s a morning person, and likes that his eighthour days are over around 2 or 3 p.m.

He’s been with the town for 17 years, and in his current position for 15. He started as just recreation manager, and then the titles kept accumulating as staff left or retired, and he took on more responsibilities.

“I basically do everything except for wastewater and water,” Richardson said.

Prior to working for Longboat Key, Richardson worked for Clearwater for four years, and Manatee County for 14 years prior to that. He’s been in the public works field since he was 18 years old.

The trash collection system of his Public Works team is simple: every Monday and Friday, his team hits the public beach access points to empty the trash cans and spot clean areas.

The team adds Sunday collection days during busy times of the year, and on weekend holidays. For Richardson, it seems like the seasons have worsened.

“Ever since COVID, the beaches have gotten busier,” Richardson said, adding that the business hasn’t seemed to let up.

Every week, one of Richardson’s Public Works employees is on the rotation for trash duty. That worker has to do the collection Monday, Friday and Sunday if necessary. Some of the newer guys pick up the shifts to acquire more comp time, Richardson said.

At most, the entire run takes around three hours, according to Richardson.

Waste Management handles residential trash collection on Mondays and Thursdays, and also collects beach access trash on Mondays.

Richardson and the Public Works team still collect on Mondays because their trucks are able to get back to certain access points that the Waste Management trucks aren’t able to, like the one on Broadway Street.

On days when there’s no overlap with Waste Management, the Public Works employee doing the trash run makes 14 stops. If Waste Management is also on duty, there’s only five stops that Public Works has to make.

OVERCOMING OBSTACLES

Currently, Richardson’s Public Works team comprises six workers, still two short of where he wants to be. Last March, he only had four workers.

One of the reasons for the shortage that he suggested is that newer generations don’t want to do manual labor. But what the department pays is “pretty darn good,” for a job only requiring a high school diploma, he said.

Since hiring new staff, he’s revamped his ways. Richardson said he was used to having veteran employees until about a year ago, when he had to train new workers. This included adding maps of the trash and mowing routes in the trucks and creating a small library of “what to do.”

Richardson has also had to revamp the physical aspects of collecting trash.

In 2021, he had to purchase an additional towable dumpster, and he just purchased another, he said. The team also has three larger, portable dumpsters that it places at busier beach access points during holidays.

“I’m just running my brain trying to figure out how to get people to put trash in the cans,” Richardson said.

Some additional cans have been added to beach access points, but Richardson said there’s a fine balance between too little and too many cans.

One of the issues Richardson and Ballew frequently see is when trash gets jammed in the swing lid of the cans, then people will assume the trash can is full. The same goes for cans without lids, if a large bag clogs up the top opening.

About a month ago, Richardson began experimenting with removing the swing lids from some trash cans.

This eliminates the need for people to push the barrier inwards and throw the trash in. The newer ones can be harder to press inward, and some people just don’t like touching

Matt Ballew’s headlamp helps him see during his morning trash run.

the swing lids with their hands, leading to trash on or around the garbage cans.

So far, Richardson thinks the experiment has been working.

Another problem is when people try to stuff large objects in the trash cans, like foldable chairs, then others will usually avoid using that can.

“That takes up a whole 32-gallon trash can because someone put a chair in there,” Richardson said.

Richardson also purchased another type of garbage can lid that is lifted off the can, that he thinks people will be more open to using. But he’s been thinking that maybe the best solution is removing the lid altogether on weekends.

No matter what improvements the team tries to implement, Richardson said there will always be outliers.

“You’re always going to have trash on the ground because some people just don’t care,” Richardson said.

TRASH ON THE BEACH

Past the beach access points and on the sand, volunteers with the Longboat Key Turtle Watch carry trash bags on morning walks and collect trash wherever they can.

“You’d be surprised at what we find,” said Steve Howard, a volunteer for five years.

One of the most surprising things, Howard said, was a beer funnel that was wrapped around a turtle nest site.

Trash seems to be worse on the beach access points like Broadway and North Shore, where there is the most public parking available. When they find things like gently used kids’ toys, Howard said they try to recycle or donate them.

Howard said the pickup spots are good as they are, but thinks more education could be necessary in encouraging people to always take their trash with them off the beach.

TRASH FINDS

Matt Ballew: Diapers, beach chairs Mark Richardson: Pop-up tents; inflatables, charcoal grills Steve Howard, LBK Turtle Watch Volunteer: Full alcohol containers, undergarments, shoes, beer funnels, kids toys

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

Spending deadline All approved purchases of goods and services must be delivered by the business ­improvement district’s Sept. 30 sunset.

ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER

D

uring the past two decades, St. Armands Circle has experienced an enhanced level of service that has contributed to maintaining its status as one of the city’s top destinations for visitors and residents alike.

With the failure to renew the St. Armands Business Improvement District by a vote of the commercial property owners there, just how well maintained the landscape and how well funded special events and marketing of the circle will be is uncertain. What is certain, though, is that it likely won’t be anywhere near the level merchants, visitors and residents have enjoyed since 2003.

Just two days after the City Commission received the report of the impending sunset of the St. Armands BID on Sept. 30, 2023, the board of directors held its last meeting to discuss final spending plans, and what may happen with any surplus funds remaining in the BID’s accounts once it is dissolved.

That money, nearly $700,000 in total and which includes approximately $479,000 for capital improvements, will not be used elsewhere in the city because it belongs to the BID via special tax district overlay district. Those paying into the fund for the past 20 years, though, will have

no say over how it is spent there.

That will be up to City Commission going forward.

After Sept. 30, property owners will have to directly lobby staff and commissioners for any benefits above and beyond standard city services and capital spending.

“That’s what we’re going to have to do now. We’re gonna have to get together as property owners and go to the city and push for these things,” said BID Board of Directors Chairman Tom Leonard. “They will probably look at us and say, ‘Well, why did you dissolve yourself if you wanted this so bad, and why didn’t you want to contribute to it?’

“We need to figure out a way so we can show the city that we can generate revenue outside of the BID to help support these enhanced services and our streetscape. I think that we all work together with the great business minds that we all have here. I think we can continue to hopefully have input with the commission. It’s not always easy, but it can happen.”

During Wednesday’s meeting in which the three remaining board members occasionally showed some frustration with the impending dissolution, BID Business Manager Julie Ryan said any spending decisions made must not only be invoiced and paid for by Sept. 30, but all goods and services must be delivered by that date. Any ongoing services — such as marketing — may continue past

Andrew Warfield

St. Armands Circle has enjoyed an enhanced level of service via revenues raised from the special tax district.

BID FUNDING

BID Funding Fiscal Years 2013-2023 Grants: Capital Improvements: Enhanced Services: Personnel and Operations: Contingency: Total Revenue: Average Yearly Budget:

$1,007,840 $740,601 $537,024 $437,193 $156,581 $2,879,239 $287,900

(35%) (25.7%) (18.7%) (15.2%) (5.4%)

that date providing they had been approved and initiated before the deadline.

Board member Casey Gonzmart appeared particularly frustrated at the outcome of the BID renewal vote and the limits placed on all that must be concluded by Sept. 30. He rejected any seasonal flower plantings and other landscape plans — particularly since enhanced irrigation paid for by the BID will revert to the city’s less

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

LEVELS OF SERVICE: CITY VS. ST. ARMANDS BID

Make

Task Mulching

Location City Standard BID Standard Sidewalk area, Annually Weekly tree beds, planters Mulching Circle park, medians Annually As needed Palm Tree Trimming Circle park, medians Annually None Pruning Sidewalk area, tree beds Annually Weekly and planters Plantings, replantings Circle park Annually Add. 2 to 4 and medians times per year Pressure Cleaning Sidewalks, Circle Park Twice annually Add. 2 to 4

times per year Pressure Cleaning Alleys None 2 to 4 times per year Trash Removal All green receptacles Daily None Trash Removal Sidewalk/storefront area None Weekly Holiday Decor Circle Park and medians None Annually

frequent schedule.

Gonzmart wanted every dollar possible to go into the capital improvement fund to help pay for a future complete streets or streetscape project. Ryan advised that funds for operations and capital improvements cannot be commingled.

“We have to focus on streetscape.

That’s something we’ve all discussed. It’s something that we all desire, and nobody in this room doesn’t like it,” said Gonzmart, who owns the Columbia and Cha Cha Coconuts restaurants and the buildings they occupy. “We have to find a way to fund it. We have to find a way to make it a quality project. It’s going to take years, but I’m here for the long term. John Ringling came here in ’29.

I came here in ’59 and my son is 40 years old, so we will fight and we will do what we can to work in tandem with the city to protect the oldest district in the city of Sarasota.”

The board approved a handful of print, digital and video marketing programs that will continue for three to four months beyond dissolution, along with one last sidewalk cleaning beyond the city’s twice-annual standard, and an alley cleaning, which the city does not provide.

After several approved landscaping, cleaning and marketing projects are completed, the BID will turn over to the city an estimated $44,000 to be held in escrow. That money can be spent only within the BID footprint,

5

A Plan.

but at the City Commission’s discretion.

With the dissolution of the BID, its annual $50,000 contribution to operate the Bay Runner free trolley service also ends, and the city will have to find another source to supplement funding.

A funding source for this year’s installation of the holiday tree in Circle Park, which was purchased by the BID and the St. Armands Circle Association last year thanks to a $286,000 city grant, will also have to be found. That’s priced at $37,840.55, which cannot be funded by the BID because it would not be erected and decorated by Sept. 30, and because it did not receive a formal application from the Circle Association, which owns the tree and is responsible for its storage.

A nearly half-century-old Sarasota tradition, the cost to install the tree and hold the annual Holiday Night of Lights tree lighting ceremony will be another matter for the city to consider.

“If we want to see something like Parks and Rec do something, we should lobby them after our board dissolves to come up with a design, then we lobby the commission, and that’s what we’re going to have to do now,” Leonard said. “We’re going to have to join together as property owners and merchants and say to the city, ‘There’s money in a piggy bank.

We’d like to see this money spent this way.’”

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

Longboat Key Police officer charged with armed trespassing The officer’s employment was terminated following an incident ­involving his wife while he was armed and in uniform.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

A

Longboat Key Police officer, Rafael Martinez Jr., 27, of Bradenton, has been charged with armed trespassing of a structure or conveyance in conjunction with events that occurred on the night of Aug. 5.

On Aug. 5, according to the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office arrest warrant affidavit, Martinez called 911 and stated that he believed his wife had been kidnapped. Martinez further advised dispatch that he had tracked his wife’s vehicle to a residence and that he believed she was inside and needed a Sarasota County Sheriff’s deputy, according to the affidavit.

Martinez stated that he tried to ring the doorbell of the residence but got no response, so he entered the residence through the unlocked garage door, according to the affidavit. He further stated he pulled out his “taser” to use the flashlight to look around dark areas of the house.

The wife stated, in an interview with a responding officer after the incident, that she was at the residence with the homeowner. She and the owner of the residence heard someone enter the house, and she believed the man to be her husband, according to the affidavit.

A yelling exchange followed Martinez’s entry, with Martinez identifying himself as “police,” after which Martinez stated he “began to panic and went outside and called 911,”

according to the police report.

Not long afterward, the owner of the residence called 911 and advised that a man had entered the residence without permission and that the man was a police officer, the affidavit continues.

At the time, Martinez was on duty in full uniform and armed with “pistol, ammunition and a taser,” according to the affidavit.

“At no time during the interview” with responding law enforcement officers after the incident, “did (Martinez) provide any lawful reason or exigent circumstances that would allow him to enter the residence.”

According to the affidavit, Martinez stated that prior to the incident at the residence, he was on patrol for Longboat Key Police Department when his 4-year-old son called him and said he and his 2-year-old sister were home alone and unaware as to where their mother was. Martinez further stated that he pulled over somewhere in Manatee County and called his wife multiple times, to which she did not reply.

The affidavit states the Longboat Key Police Department provided dash camera footage from Martinez’s vehicle, which showed Martinez in full uniform and armed outside the residence, stopping his wife.

Following his arrest, Martinez was released after posting a $1,500 bail bond. Martinez is scheduled to appear in court for arraignment Oct. 6. If convicted, armed trespassing of a structure or conveyance is classified as a third-degree felony punishable by up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.

Longboat Key Chief of Police George Turner said Martinez’s employment with the department was terminated on Aug. 7.

Community center still pending The next steps in the community center project rely on conversations between Manatee County and the school district.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

Progress on the Longboat Key Community Center in Whitney Beach Plaza is moving in a positive direction, but Town Manager Howard Tipton said it may take some time, and it requires getting stakeholders talking.

On July 25, the Manatee County commissioners approved a motion allowing staff to work on an interlocal agreement with the Manatee County School District regarding the Longboat Key Community Center.

Following that meeting, Tipton met with members of the school district on Aug. 4 for some clarification and to get conversations started.

Tipton met with the new Manatee County School District Superintendent Jason Wysong, District Deputy Superintendent of Operations Joe Ranaldi and District Executive Director of Adult Career and Technical Education Paul Gansemer.

At the meeting, Tipton said Wysong was engaged with the idea and the meeting was productive overall. In an email update Tipton sent, he said that as of Aug. 5 the county had not communicated with the school board regarding the interlocal agreement.

But from the conversation, Tipton said the school board seemed to be interested in pursuing the space with adult learning in mind. Students in the district could help with technology teaching and could also attend lectures or learn from Longboat Key citizens.

“There was interest in working to find ways for students to get to meet some of our extraordinary citizens who’ve had successful careers who

Carter Weinhofer

could share their experiences with students at the center,” Tipton said in the email update.

One issue Tipton sees is funding, though he said this can be easily overcome. The issue is that property tax generally goes to K-12 education rather than community centers for adult learning. That is typically funded through other fees, something that Tipton believes the county had not taken into consideration.

Tipton also said the school board is “very cognizant” of not wanting to create a space that would be unsuccessful.

The next steps are more conversations, getting the necessary people talking to further the interlocal agreement and eventually finalizing the lease agreement.

“Everybody has a lot on their plate,” Tipton said. “It’s an important project to the town, but we certainly understand if this takes a few weeks.”

Changes in county leadership with Charlie Bishop recently named acting county administrator and school starting up for the year have meant both organizations have been otherwise occupied.

“Progress will track the critical path of commercial lease and interlocal agreement negotiations,” Tipton said in the email. “If we can ignite those, we have a chance of seeing this come together.”

The potential Longboat Key Community Center would be located in Whitney Plaza’s largest building, at 6810 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

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OPINION / OUR VIEW

LONGBOAT

About time they give back Sarasota County officials say they’ll use county money to build a public library on Longboat.

They also should fund a community center.

C

ynics that we are, let’s try looking on the bright side for a change.

It was surprising to a degree last week to read that the Sarasota County Commission is committing $1 million to fund the design of a new county-owned library on Longboat Key and that Manatee County School officials are entertaining the idea of funding an adult education center in one of the Whitney Plaza buildings.

It was surprising and surprisingly pleasant to read because rare is the occasion when commissioners and top administrators in Sarasota and Manatee counties throw a financial bread crumb to Longboat Key. We often think they would be much more gracious and grateful considering the millions and millions and millions of dollars Longboat Key taxpayers send across the bay each year — with little tangible results in return.

As the table shows, in the next fiscal year, given the valuation of Longboat Key property,

HOW MUCH COUNTIES GET FROM LBK Based on the 2023-24 proposed millage rates, Longboat Key taxpayers will send $31,650,380 to Sarasota and Manatee counties in the next fiscal year.

Longboat LBK property Millage rate Taxable Value Tax Revenues Sarasota County 3.2653 $5,097,407,826 $17,290,917 0.1268 Debt Service Sarasota County Total 3.3921 Manatee County 6.2326 $2,303,928,313 $14,359,463 TOTAL $7,401,336,139 $31,650,380

Longboaters will send $17 million and $14 million, respectively, to Sarasota and Manatee counties — $31,650,380 altogether.

While that is A LOT of money, it actually pales in comparison to the $46,295,303 Longboaters pay in property taxes for the Sarasota and Manatee school districts. Of that, the Sarasota County portion of Longboat contributes $31,501,980 in school taxes; the Manatee portion of Longboat contributes $14,793,523.

Being the generous people they are, Longboaters on the whole haven’t demanded or squawked much to county elected officials about all the money they contribute to the counties and what little they see in return.

But it’s about time.

As much as the town’s privately operated library has served

Longboat well for 66 years (proving that a library can operate without taxpayer support), and as much as that library building has a quaint, small-town look from a simpler time, an upgrade would be welcome. That property has been underutilized too long.

Indeed, it’s the perfect site for a combined library and community center-type building.

Longboaters have talked for nearly 30 years about building a community center — a gathering place for town events and communitywide meetings. The pews at Temple Beth Israel should not be that place, as they have before. And most long-time Longboat residents know the old cottage at Bayfront Park is completely inadequate and has outlived its useful life by 30 years and then some.

So Longboaters, no doubt, gladly will welcome Sarasota County using what can be considered Longboat Key property owners’ tax dollars to build a new public library on the Key. Well and good — except for one thing.

From last week’s Longboat Observer: “Sarasota County will be financially responsible for the new library. But the town is exploring the possibility of adding additional community space to the design.

This part of the project would need to be paid for by the town, (Longboat Key Town Manager Howard) Tipton said.” (Italics added) What? No way.

If the city of Sarasota and the Bay Park Conservancy can secure what likely will be more than $100 million in tax-increment financing from Sarasota County to fund the development of the Bay Park, given the millions Sarasota and Manatee counties receive from Longboat Key, surely there is a path to financing a measly library-community center without tapping Longboat Key taxpayers for even more than they’re already paying.

Maybe it’s time Longboat Key commissioners pull back some from being so generous to the two counties and let the county commissioners (and school boards) know there needs to be a much better return on Longboaters’ investments in the counties.

AG Moody tries to snuff weed Florida’s attorney general is trying to prevent voters from deciding whether the state should legalize recreational marijuana for adults.

ADRIAN MOORE, GEOFFREY LAWRENCE AND MADISON CARLINO

F

lorida Attorney General Ashley Moody and others are trying to persuade the Florida Supreme Court to strike down a ballot initiative that would amend the state constitution to allow personal possession of marijuana for adults aged 21 and up.

Florida has a medical marijuana program, and this new initiative would grant existing medical marijuana companies the exclusive right to sell marijuana products, unless the Legislature decides to offer new licenses in the future.

If the measure survives Moody’s Geoffrey challenges, the Lawrence question facing voters will be whether they would be willing to confer market power to a handful of companies to allow consumers greater access to marijuana.

The largest of Florida’s medical marijuana companies, Trulieve Cannabis, has contributed all of the $39.05 million that Smart & Safe Florida, the political action committee formed to sponsor the initiative, has received.

The committee has used this money to meet the threshold of signature collection needed to qualify the initiative for the ballot by turning in 1,013,325 verified signatures from eligible Florida voters. That number easily is more than the 891,589 required.

If the initiative is successful, Trulieve and other medical

marijuana licensees would dramatically expand their market by gaining the ability to sell marijuana products to all adults regardless of medical need.

Despite this, Florida’s political class has remained consistently hostile to marijuana legalization. They have inhibited implementation of the medical marijuana law that voters approved in 2016. Following adoption of that initiative, Florida lawmakers first declined to consider implementing the statutes that the initiative required them to adopt until thenGov. Rick Scott called them into a special session to complete their constitutional responsibilities.

After that, they then adopted a statute that banned smokable products — a move that state courts later ruled violated the intent of the initiative. The DeSantis administration later fell years behind in awarding licenses to operate marijuana businesses, drawing further admonishment in state courts.

Most recently, the DeSantis administration raised the fee for these licenses more than 20 times the initial cost, going from $60,000 to $1.33 million.

Into this background steps Attorney General Moody, a DeSantis ally, with a legal challenge seeking to prevent Trulieve’s initiative from going to the voters.

Part of Florida’s process to qualify an initiative for the ballot is for the state Supreme Court to certify the initiative’s validity, which gives interested parties the chance to submit briefs in opposition. Moody has done so, along with the Florida Chamber of Commerce and the Drug Free America Foundation.

Moody makes several spurious arguments in her brief.

First, she (along with the Drug Free America Foundation) claims that the summary is misleading because it states adults 21 years or older could legally purchase, possess or use marijuana, but she notes those actions would remain illegal under federal law.

In truth, the initiative is a proposed amendment to Florida’s constitution and has no direct relation to federal law. More than a dozen states have legalized

PROPOSED AMENDMENT The following is a summary of a proposed amendment to the Florida Constitution that is going through the initiative approval process.

ADULT PERSONAL USE OF MARIJUANA SUMMARY: Allows adults 21 years or older to possess, purchase or use marijuana products and marijuana accessories for non-medical personal consumption by smoking, ingestion or otherwise; allows Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers and other statelicensed entities to acquire, cultivate, process, manufacture, sell and distribute such products and accessories. Applies to Florida law; does not change or immunize violations of federal law. Establishes possession limits for personal use.

Allows consistent legislation.

Defines terms. Provides effective date.

marijuana by initiatives containing similar language.

Further, the plain text of the initiative’s summary statement that would appear on the ballot undermines Moody’s argument. It expressly states the initiative “does not change or immunize violations of federal law.”

Second, Moody argues the initiative would permit unregulated sales because it doesn’t specifically grant the state health department regulatory authority over recreational marijuana sales. The truth is the initiative states that only existing Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers (MMTCs) would be able to sell marijuana, along with other entities to whom the department may grant licenses in the future. The health department regulates all medical marijuana treatment centers, so no one would be able to sell marijuana without health department oversight.

Third, Moody argues the initiative might mislead voters into believing there will be more competition in Florida’s marijuana market. The initiative is clear that it restricts any commercial marijuana activity to current medical marijuana treatment centers, although it theoretically allows the Legislature to authorize additional

FLORIDA MEDICAL MARIJUANA CENTERS FLORIDA COMPANY DISPENSARIES Trulieve 125 MuV 68 Ayr Cannabis Dispensary 61 Curaleaf 60 Surterra Wellness 45 Fluent 31 29 Green Dragon Sunnyside 29 VidaCann 27 19 Sanctuary Cannabis GrowHealthy 18 Cannabist 14 Sunburn 10 8 GTI (Rise Dispensaries) Insa 8 7 Jungle Boys The Flowery 5 House of 4 Platinum Cannabis Cookies 2 1 Gold Leaf Total 571

adult-use licenses in the future.

Trulieve controls 125 of the 571 medical marijuana dispensaries operating in Florida. Its initiative would restrict any new entrants from coming into the marijuana market unless the Legislature passes a law allowing for the award of new commercial licenses.

Based on experience to date, Florida lawmakers appear unlikely to do this in the foreseeable future.

It’s possible voters will mistakenly believe the initiative would lead to increased competition, but this speaks more to the obstinance of Florida’s political class than to the language of the initiative itself.

Moody’s legal arguments are mostly red herrings.

Trulieve’s attempt to control the Florida market, however, is a real issue upon which the initiative should be debated.

The question is: Are Floridians willing to accept a small cartel of legal suppliers for adults to gain the personal freedom to make their own choices regarding marijuana consumption?

Madison Carlino is a research intern, Geoffrey Lawrence is research director, and Adrian Moore is vice president at the Reason Foundation.

“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

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

FRIDAY, AUG. 4

SUNDAY, AUG. 6

SAFETY HAZARD 4:20 p.m., Jewfish Key Boating Citation: On marine patrol, an officer noticed a boat traveling with an excessive wake in a “Slow Speed, Minimum Wake” zone. The marine patrol officer stopped the boat and informed the driver of the violation in the zone. The operator of the boat was also asked to show proof of required safety equipment and was missing a fire extinguisher and proper throwable flotation device. A citation was issued.

TEST DRIVE 8:02 p.m., 500 block of Lyons Lane Suspicious Vehicle: A sports car speeding up and down the block prompted a police response. On the scene, the officer made contact with the vehicle and owner, and addressed the problem. The owner was advised not to speed down the block anymore. The owner apologized — the vehicle was new.

SATURDAY, AUG. 5

GESTURE-AND-RUN 11:30 a.m., 4000 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Suspicious Person: Longboat Key Police Department was asked to respond to a caller who stated a woman and two males made obscene hand gestures toward her.

Upon arrival, the complainant and suspicious persons were nowhere to be found.

POTTY PROBLEMS 5:54 p.m., 4000 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Citizen Assist: An officer responded to help someone locked inside the bathroom at Bayfront Park. On arrival, the officer was able to open the door and free the complainant.

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 9

URBAN VANDALISM 11:45 a.m., 100 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Criminal Mischief: An officer was dispatched to New Pass Bridge to investigate graffiti on a road sign.

The officer noted that the graffiti did not impact the sign’s structural integrity, and the case was sent to Public Works to clean the sign.

According to new residential construction permit data, the residential units being built on Longboat Key have been getting more expensive.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

WASTING WATER 9:27 a.m., 500 block of Sutton Place Citizen Assist: An officer was dispatched to respond to a water sprinkler that was running all night.

On the scene, the responding officer was able to locate the sprinkler and called the property management company. The representative of the company said maintenance would resolve the issue.

SUNDAY, AUG. 6

New builds increase in number and value

D

emand for luxury living on Longboat Key has been on an upward trend the last six years, according to new construction permit data.

“We have a lot of new houses, so there’s definitely an upswing in that because we’re reviewing the plans,” Longboat Key Building Official Patti Fige said.

In 2017, the Planning, Zoning & Building Department issued five new residential construction permits. A couple years later in 2022, that number jumped to 32. To date in 2023, there have been 17 new construction permits issued.

The median value of new residential construction has also steadily increased, from $475,000 in 2017 to $1,679,420 in 2023 to date.

According to Fige, houses the department has reviewed seem to be growing larger in recent years.

THURSDAY, AUG. 10

DOUBLE DUTY 1:04 p.m., Longboat Pass Boat-Miscellaneous: On marine patrol, an emergency assistance frequency urged the response of a Longboat Key marine patrol officer.

Upon arrival, the officer found the 50-foot yacht that was signaling the emergency. The boat with four people on board had run aground and were waiting for commercial assistance. While the officer was waiting for the Coast Guard and the commercial tow, he heard another emergency assistance frequency stating the vessel was taking on water. Longboat Key marine patrol met the Coast Guard and commercial assistance on scene. The agencies were able to use a dewatering pump and get control of the water intrusion.

NEW CONSTRUCTION PERMITS (RESIDENTIAL) Year

Total Value

2017 $2,462,000 $3,805,000 2018 $15,569,567 2019 2020 $15,627,971 2021 $23,801,291 2022 $37,623,791 2023* $44,382,449 *Year to date

Median Value

Permits issued

$475,000 $783,000 $872,020 $650,000 $787,500 $1,006,375 $1,679,420

5 5 16 19 30 32 17

The average square footage is now around 6,000 to 7,000, though this year Fige said there are some that have far exceeded that.

“We’ve permitted two, if not more, that are 22,000 square feet or more,” Fige said. “And I don’t know that I’ve had that before.”

Fige also said she’s seen quite a few alterations to existing structures in which many residents are completely renovating condos. Other, more minor, alterations such as wind pressure and impact resistant windows and doors have also trended upwards, according to Fige.

AVERAGE CONSTRUCTION VALUE

PROTECT (THE TURTLES) AND SERVE (THE CRABS) 9:20 p.m., 3800 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Suspicious Person: Police received reports of someone with white lights on the beach. An officer was able to locate a group of people in the water with nets, one of whom had a bright headlamp on. The individual said he was unaware of the turtle protection laws, and was harvesting crabs on the beach. A citation was issued.

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DO YOU KNOW WHAT’S IN YOUR WATER?

Nine volunteers spent their weekend gardening for the latest Garden Club ­beautification project.

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embers of the Longboat Key Garden Club spent the mornings of Aug. 4-6 at the Town Center pavilion and stage planting to enhance the landscape.

According to the 2023 Garden Club Yearbook, one of its long-standing missions has been to “preserve the natural beauty of Longboat Key and surrounding areas and to further enhance its beautification.”

The pavilion project and others like it are funded through grants that the Garden Club raises funds for, based on its mission. The club allocated a $10,000 grant for this project but did not use all of it.

Susan Phillips, head of special projects for the Garden Club, organized the weekend of gardening and gathered nine volunteers to help.

Around the entrance of the Town Center, they planted 65 ixoras to build a hedge that will guide people to the stage. They also planted two palm trees on both sides of the stage.

To hide the trash container, they planted 18 pitch apple plants.

“The first day, they didn’t have the sod picked up, which created the bed we’re planting,” said Phillips. “But the plants were there and the mulch was there. So while waiting for the guy who would pick up the sod, we spaced out the sod bags and just put them along the walkway. Then we took the plants and we measured three feet apart for each plant, and we placed them just over the sidewalk. It’s just staging, really, so that when we were ready to start digging, as soon as he’d picked sod, we could just go behind him and start planting.”

Courtesy photo

Garden Club members Randy Davis, Steve Branham, Cyndi Davis, Susan Phillips and Melanie Dale

Petra Rivera

After doing what they could ­Friday morning before the temperature rose, the group organized so a few of them could come Saturday and Sunday to finish planting.

Phillips said the club wants to use the rest of the grant to continue gardening around the town pavilion and to put toward other beautification projects.

The club also set aside grants at its annual meeting for beautification at the north and south fire stations and for the Town Center Tree Lighting.

She said the club is also hoping to help with the landscape redesign of the Longboat Key Public Tennis Center.

Longboat Key Garden Club members planted 65 ixoras at the entrance of the Town Center pavilion.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

11

Garden Club helps Longboat bloom The club’s history is intertwined with efforts to beautify the island and build community.

GOALS SINCE THE FOUNDING 1. To stimulate the knowledge and love of gardening and to teach the special art of gardening on Longboat Key. 2. To preserve the natural beauty of Longboat Key and surrounding areas and to further enhance its beautification.

3. To encourage the preservation of our wildlife, birds, beaches, and purity of waterways.

4. To look at wider environmental concerns, and to stimulate this learning in youth.

5. To encourage a wider awareness of their many philanthropic activities, social events, and actively involve more members.

PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER

“I

Courtesy photos

The Garden Club at the 1980 celebration of Longboat’s 20th anniversary

Garden Club members Kit Fernald, Tom Jones and Don Bills working on Bicentennial Park in 1976.

Longboat Key Garden Club officers Susan Loprete, Sharon Meir, Susan Mason, Melanie Dale, Lyn Haycock and Susan Phillips at the club’s Arbor Day Picnic & Annual Meeting, which was held on April 28 at the Longboat Island Chapel.

The “Blooming Key” project got a great response from the town. By May of that year, the club received more than 100 orders. The Colony Beach and Tennis Resort bought 17 flowering trees through the project. The response inspired the club to push for more beautification that year. Club members worked with the town to replace Australian pine trees

with more native trees along Gulf of Mexico Drive and in the Harbourside and Islandside golf courses. The project continued through the ’80s.

While organizing “The Blooming Key,” McCall also continued maintenance and beautification of Bicentennial Park. The club also started a grant program benefiting other nonprofits such as Mote Marine Labora-

WORSHIP

tory and Aquarium.

Phillips said that these events were the foundation for everything that the Garden Club does today.

The club’s main priorities are beautification projects, providing educational opportunities to learn about environmental concerns, supporting other local nonprofits and building a welcoming social com-

An Ecumenical Church that Welcomes all People Founded in 1956

directory

munity for Longboat Key. “It’s made me feel more a part of the community,” said Barbara Gurchiek, former vice president. “I feel like I’m helping the community and having a good time doing it.”

Every year the Garden Club hosts several social and fundraising events.

The main events include Taste of the Keys and Fashion Show, Home Tours, and Dinner and A Movie. The club has monthly educational program meetings and field trips to maintain community and connections. Each Arbor Day, members plant one tree somewhere on Longboat Key as a symbol of their mission of beautification. They also host their annual meeting on the same day and invite the club’s scholarship and grant recipients to the celebration. “(Phillips) really has been instrumental in growing the Garden Club,” said Ulrich. “Garden Club has grown exponentially in the last five years. And we did that even through COVID, which was hard because we couldn’t really have all of our events.”

Recently, Chamber of Commerce President Gail Loefgren picked the Garden Club to be the first organization to serve collectively as grand marshal at the July 4 Freedom Fest.

“I really value getting together with a bunch of people with the vision of improving the community and the environment,” said Kathleen Garcia, former Arbor Day Chair. “The club fulfills that purpose for me. It’s the perfect place to be with like-minded people who want to give back to the community and have some fun while doing it.”

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

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t’s more than just a nonprofit organization,” said Linda Ulrich, grants chair and 10-year member of the Longboat Key Garden Club.

“When you retire and you move to a different location, you don’t have a lot of chances to meet new people. So the Garden Club is the perfect way to meet people and to do something for the community.”

Patricia Kroh founded the Longboat Key Garden Club in 1969. The main goal of the club was to provide help to the town to preserve and encourage further beautification of Longboat. Now, it provides the island with an outlet for service, education, and long-lasting community.

“The impact of beautification that continued from day one, that obviously has our fingerprints all over it,” said Susan Phillips. “It’s all about building community through getting people involved in our mission, but in a way that they want to.”

Phillips is the immediate past president of the Garden Club and was president for eight years. Now she is the head of special projects.

The first Garden Club project started in 1970 with a contract with the Arvida Corp. to create Bicentennial Park, according to the 2023 Garden Club yearbook.

To raise funds for this project, the Garden Club put on its first ever fundraiser, the Home Tour, which has been a time-honored tradition on Longboat.

Throughout the ’70s, the Garden Club slowly turned the donated land from Arvida into Bicentennial Park by adding plants, park benches, and sprinklers. In 1979, the club started its mission to encourage education in the local schools about environmental concerns. The club started using the money generated by fundraisers to provide scholarships to local students, grants to summer camps and to purchase library books.

In January of 1983, Garden Club President Isodene McCall started a project called the “The Blooming Key.” The goal was to create an avenue of flowering trees down both sides of Gulf of Mexico Drive. Property owners could buy trees from Arvida for $10-$25 and then Garden Club members would come and plant them in the owners’ yards.

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.

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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

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

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

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

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

All Are Welcome!

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

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

941-383-3428

longboatkeytemple.org

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Growing in Jesus’ Name

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

Sunday Coffee Hour at 9:00am

A+E INSIDE: < PERFECT PITCH: Hip-hop meets high school in soccer team song. 14 CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REMIXED!: Show follows the life of John Fogerty. 15 >

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT AUGUST 17, 2023

YOUROBSERVER.COM

Art that makes amends The Ringling’s ‘Reclaiming Home’ bears witness to the trials and triumphs of the Seminole tribe.

MONICA ROMAN GAGNIER ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

B

ack in the 1970s, at the height of the American Indian Movement, it wasn’t unusual in

places near reservations to see bumper stickers and T-shirts emblazoned with the words “You Are On Indian Land.”

While it could be argued that the slogan applied to the entire United States, it is certainly true in this part of Florida, where the Seminole tribe was forcibly removed from

Noah Billie’s untitled painting of a Native American soldier and his warrior ancestor.

its land during three wars with the U.S. government. Today, many descendants of those Florida natives live in Oklahoma.

With the 2016-17 protest against the Dakota Access Pipeline on the Standing Rock Reservation in North Dakota, the movement for indigenous rights picked up steam again.

Members of 200 Indian tribes gathered together for the first time in 150 years, according to the American Civil Liberties Union.

The next year the John and Mable Ringling Museum hired Ola Wlusek as curator for modern and contemporary art. A former public art coordinator for the city of Calgary and curator at the Ottawa Art Gallery, Wlusek was the driving force behind the Ringling’s exhibition, “Reclaiming Home: Contemporary Seminole Art,” which runs through Sept. 4.

Can you draw a straight line from the Standing Rock protest to the “Reclaiming Home” exhibition? Not exactly, but they both signify a growing awareness of Native issues.

If you haven’t seen the Ringling’s ambitious, wide-ranging show in the cavernous Ulla R. and Arthur F. Searing Wing, make time to do so. The colorful, multimedia art works are profound and arresting. Like the circuses that generated the wealth that built the museum on Sarasota Bay, “Reclaiming Home” has something for everyone. It’s family-friendly to be sure.

Courtesy photos

IF YOU GO

When: Through Sept. 4 Where: John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bayshore Road Tickets: $25 Info: Visit Ringling.org

Descriptions like “ground-breaking” and “awe-inspiring” are not hyperbole for an exhibition that was five years in the making.

Hundreds if not thousands of hours of discussion and consultation paved the way for “Reclaiming Home.” Some of Wlusek’s travel and research was underwritten by a curatorial research fellowship she received from the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts.

“Reclaiming Home” was made possible by loans from leading Native American cultural institutions including the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art in Indianapolis, the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture and the IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts, both in Santa Fe, N.M. Last but

Seminole artist Wilson Bowers used a digital design on board to create his 2020 work, “MMIW,” which draws attention to missing and murdered indigenous women.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

not least, art and advice was lent to the Ringling by the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum on the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation.

The exhibition is accompanied by a handsome catalog with thoughtprovoking articles by its artists.

GHOSTS OF THE PAST

Museums have come under fire in recent years for acquiring or accepting donations of looted relics. They have been forced to return antiquities to their original owners, including governments and tribal nations.

Since nearly all of the artwork in “Reclaiming Home” is loaned, that isn’t a concern here. But the Ringling show takes place at a time when museums and other cultural institutions are being questioned about their practices and even their existence.

The pressing issue here is whether the Ringling can live up to its lofty goal of allowing the Seminoles to reclaim, if not their home, their identity. Of course, the Sarasota museum cannot erase the history of colonialism and the ramifications of the policy of Manifest Destiny that pushed the American frontier across the country to the Pacific Ocean.

It cannot restore to their original owners the native lands now occupied by condos, shopping centers and highways. It is ridiculous to think that art can right these kinds of wrongs.

What the Ringling has achieved with “Reclaiming Home” is to provide for the first time within its halls a forum for the telling of Seminole stories through authentic Native art.

One can’t help leaving the museum with thoughts and images of ghosts that lurk among the 100 pieces of art by 12 artists of Seminole, Miccosukee and mixed heritage.

One of the first ghosts a visitor sees upon entering the Searing Wing is a painting with a native American warrior in full regalia holding a rifle.

He’s hovering in the clouds above a young soldier fighting in a jungle, presumably Vietnam.

Noah Billie, the artist who painted the acrylic work “Untitled,” in 1998, was traumatized by his wartime experience, Wlusek said in a recent gallery talk. Upon returning from Southeast Asia, Billie isolated

himself and didn’t speak. Creating art helped heal his psychic wounds, she said. Considered to be one of the most influential Seminole artists in Florida, Billie died in 2000.

Phantoms are also invoked by a big, graffiti-inspired installation in red and black in the exhibition. Wilson Bowers pays tribute to Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women with the stark piece, which ends with the words, “They are someone.”

According to the University of San Diego, there are at least 23,000 people missing from tribal lands in the U.S., mostly women, but most experts feel this number is much higher.

In 2021, President Joe Biden declared May 5 “Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Awareness Day” to shine light on the matter, which is also a widespread problem in Canada.

A thrilling sense of martial speed is evoked by Bowers’ brightly painted skateboards on the walls of the Ringling. It took strength for Pedro Zepeda, who is Seminole and Mexican, to carve the canoe on display in “Reclaiming Home” from a cypress log using the same tools and methods that have been employed by the Seminoles for at least 200 years.

According to a video narrated by Zepeda that is streaming in one of the gallery’s nooks, the Seminoles adopted metal tools after they were introduced by Europeans.

Feminine energy is also in evidence in “Reclaiming Home.” Ruffles, tiers and rick-rack embellish the dresses worn by Seminole women depicted in paintings as well as costumes on display.

One elaborate outfit, “Night at the Ringling,” was made specifically for the “Reclaiming Home” exhibit, says Wlusek, by artist Jessica Osceola, who imagined what she would wear to the opening of the show.

Artist Elisa Harkins uses images and sound to capture the Native songs that the exiled Seminoles sang to lift their spirits as they traveled the “Trail of Tears” from Florida to Oklahoma. Harkins, who is of Cherokee/Muscogee/Creek descent, also preserves Native culture by creating costumes and taking photographs.

If there is one piece of art that can lay claim to being the set piece of

13

Courtesy photo

Jessica Osceola’s 2022 textile artwork “Night at The Ringling” is on display at the John and Mable Ringling Art Museum through Sept. 4.

“Reclaiming Home,” it is “The Last Supper,” C. Maxx Stevens’ multimedia installation of a table laden with replicas of sugar-filled goodies. This cornucopia of cakes, cookies and the like is a monument to those who have perished from diabetes.

Strewn underneath the table are shoes, canes and crutches, reflecting the loss of mobility and amputations suffered by many diabetes victims before their ultimate death.

“The Last Supper” is a moving reminder that unhealthy food has taken its toll on Native Americans, including the Seminoles.

In the face of the devastation suffered by Florida’s natives, is it possible to leave “Reclaiming Home” with any hope? It is.

Just look at the work and life of Jessica Osceola. (There’s more than one Osceola in the show.) The Seminole/

Irish artist grew up in her greatgrandmother’s Seminole village in Florida and today owns a microfarm and studio in Naples.

A 2008 graduate of Florida Gulf Coast University, Osceola holds a master’s degree in fine art sculpture from Academy of Art University in San Francisco. Osceola has compiled her life story and art into a book, “We Will Always Be Here: Native Peoples on Living and Thriving in the South.”

Her 2017 work, “Portrait One, Portrait Two, and Portrait Three,” recently became the first work by a Seminole artist to be added to the Ringling’s permanent collection.

It’s been 167 years since the Seminoles were forced to move to Oklahoma, but the art of Florida’s original residents is getting the attention it deserves in their homeland.

THE POWER OF A KNOCK

TM

A knock at the door might not seem like a big deal to many of us. But, to a homebound senior, it could signal the arrival of the only person they might see all day or all week long.

It brings hope. It brings health. It brings the nutrition and care that will completely make their day. A knock from Meals on Wheels can even save lives.

MOUNTAINS OF THE MIND SCHOLARS’ ROCKS FROM CHINA AND BEYOND

DONATE

THE POWER OF A KNOCK TRANSFORMS LIVES.

THROUGH JUN 23

ringling.org 421 N Lime Ave • Sarasota FL 34237 (941) 366-6693 • MealsOnWheelsOfSarasota.org

This exhibition is supported by the Chao Ringling Museum Endowment and the E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation.

SERVING MEALS • DELIVERING HOPE • SAVING LIVES

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A registered 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization established in 1971 408686-1

White Taihu Stone, 21 1/16 × 9 7/16 × 7 1/2 in. Gift of Stan and Nancy Kaplan, 2019. SN11681.41

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

HIP-HOP MEETS HIGH SCHOOL

Rapper Ryanito teamed up with Riverview High for the Sarasota Paradise’s anthem.

With the internet and the ability to create your own lane, you can share your music worldwide.”

MONICA ROMAN GAGNIER ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

Y

www.manasotaonline.com

— Rapper Ryanito

features artists from Mexico, Italy, Spain, Argentina and Venezuela. Like soccer, music is international. “With the internet and the ability to create your own lane, you can share your music worldwide,” Ryanito says.

Ryanito has fans not just in Sarasota, but in Europe and Latin America. Featuring local artists is a way to appeal to local audiences in these regions.

Asked what he’s aiming for in the fragmented streaming world that dominates music today, Ryanito says he wants to: “Be a pioneer. Establish the roots. Bridge the gaps.”

Later this month, Ryanito will release his children’s book, “The Cosmic Kid.” Available on Amazon, it tells the story of a boy named Rayo who dreams of becoming a successful rapper.

Like others in Sarasota, Ryanito has been inspired to give back to his community. In recent years he has visited Sarasota County schools, where he has inspired students to learn and to embrace positivity through his Art, Rhymes & Kids program.

If the Art and Rhymes part sounds familiar, it’s because Ryanito and Bauduin have done an adult version of the show called Art, Rhymes & Beer at local taverns.

As the artist likes to point out, rap is a style of music, but hip-hop is a lifestyle. And Ryanito is determined to live it to its fullest, but on a positive note.

Rapper Ryanito teamed up with the Riverview High Kiltie Band to record a theme song for the Sarasota Paradise soccer team.

He grew up singing in youth choirs at school and studied poetry. Like other kids of his generation, he listened to rappers such as KRS-One and Nas. Ryanito is no stranger to mixing things up with unexpected collaborators and guest artists. Back in 2018, he performed music from his first LP with Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe artist Michael Mendez and The Pops Orchestra of Bradenton and Sarasota.

Besides working with local artists,

1734 South Tamiami Trail Venice, FL 34293 941.493.7441

the rapper reaches across international boundaries. The original studio versions of “Paraiso/Paradise” were created by Mateo Merola from Uruguay, while Karl Roque from the Philippines produced the house music version.

A second-generation American, Ryanito is connected to Uruguay through his father, who grew up there and traces his ancestry to Spain’s Basque region.

The “Paraiso/Paradise” album

4551 N. Washington Blvd.

Sarasota, FL 34234 941.355.8437

Photos by Marcel Bauduin

Rapper Ryanito poses with the Riverview Kilties, who were featured in his recording of the theme song for the Sarasota Paradise soccer team.

2510 1st Street West Bradenton, FL 34208 941.748.4679

OUR SHOWROOMS ARE OPEN Special Financing Available

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o! Happy Birthday, hiphop!

August marks the 50th anniversary of hip-hop music and culture in the U.S. Celebrations have been going on all over the country, including Sarasota, where Ryan “Ryanito” Larrañaga recently released his “Paraiso/ Paradise” project.

For those wondering about the birth of hip-hop, music historians have decided it all began in a rec room in the Bronx, where DJ Kool Herc and his sister, Cindy Campbell, had a party and started doing funny things with vinyl. The rest, as they say, is history.

Here in Florida, Ryanito is trying to make a little history of his own.

When he set out to create a theme song for Sarasota’s new USL League soccer team, the Paradise, he decided to experiment and make different versions of the song.

There are renditions of “Paraiso/ Paradise” in Spanish and English as well as a house style version (hip-hop fans will understand) and a recording featuring an orchestra. There’s even one with a high school marching band, none other than the Riverview High Kiltie Band.

In an interview, Ryanito says he has been watching soccer all his life but it was his business partner, Marcel Bauduin, also known as DJ Cellus, who called his attention to the new game in the town that Ryanito has called home since 2009.

The Sarasota Paradise, a “preprofessional” soccer team, kicked off its first season in June, against FC Miami City at Sarasota High School’s stadium.

Yes, the team plays at Sarasota High, but chose Ryanito and Bauduin chose Riverview High for their collaboration. However, there are no hard feelings, according to Ryanito.

Part of the reason the Kilties got the job is its band director. Not one for understatement, Ryanito and Bauduin said in a statement, “Ryanito reached out to band director Tamara Lewis and collaborated with the Riverview High School Kiltie Band, exemplifying the artist’s commitment to engaging the local community and youth in the creative process. This collaboration underscores the powerful connection between music, sports, and the community.”

A native of the Baltimore area, Ryanito understands the impact that the arts can have on children.

YourObserver.com

THIS WEEK THURSDAY

DIVAS THREE 7:30 p.m. at FST’s Court Cabaret, 1265 First St. $18 and up Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

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OUR PICK THE BOLDS BROTHERS Brothers Jordan and Joel Bolds perform their mesmerizing blend of soul, gospel and jazz. Jordan Bolds is a 22-year-old saxophonist who discovered the sax in the fourth grade and has appeared at the Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival. Joel Bolds, 20, is a professional drummer who also taught himself how to play piano. Special guest artists include Charlie “CJ” Melton and Marc Dortch. Continues through Aug. 20.

IF YOU GO When: Saturday, 7:30 p.m.

Where:West Coast Black Theatre Troupe’s Donelly Theatre, 1012 N. Orange Ave. Tickets: $25-$100 Info: WestCoastBlackTheatre.org

6TH ANNUAL

Three female vocalists present four decades of songs made famous by Aretha Franklin, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston and other women who have won the coveted title of “Diva.”

Runs through Sept. 17.

Courtesy photo

‘A COMEDY OF TENORS’ 8 p.m. at FST’s Gompertz Theatre, 1265 First St. $25 and up Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

Set in 1930s Paris, “A Comedy of Tenors” follows a producer trying to keep a concert of opera superstars from descending into mayhem. Runs through Aug. 27.

MONDAY MONDAY NIGHT JAZZ AT THE CABARET 7:30 p.m. at John C. Court Cabaret, 1265 First St. $34-$39 Visit JazzClubSarasota.org.

‘THE GRADUATE’ 7:30 p.m. at The Players Centre, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail $30 Visit ThePlayers.org.

Monday Night Jazz features Rebecca Richardson and the Dan Heck Trio, both popular in Venice.

Directed by Elliott Raines, “The Graduate” explores the unlikely liaison between a recent college grad who is adrift in life and a friend of his parents who knows exactly what she wants. Runs through Aug. 27.

‘CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REMIXED!’ 7:30 p.m. at FST’s Goldstein Cabaret, 1239 N. Palm Ave. $18 and up Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

SATURDAY

“The Jersey Tenors” veteran Vaden Thurgood has created his own musical revue based on Creedence Clearwater Revival and the band’s hits such as “Proud Mary” and “Bad Moon Rising.” Runs through Oct. 15.

SARASOTA YOUTH OPERA FAMILY DAY Noon at Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave. Free Visit SarasotaOpera.org Hear the Youth Opera sing, attend a singing session, join in acting games and stand on the stage when you take a tour of the opera house. The whole family is invited to come see what Sarasota Youth Opera is about.

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY JAZZ HAPPY HOUR 6 p.m. at Selby Library, 1331 First St. Free Visit SarasotaMusicArchive.org.

Sarasota Music Archive wraps its summer Jazz Happy Hour series with the Robbie Rose Retro Quartet.

Reservations are required.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2023 6:30PM MICHAEL’S ON EAST Beer Garden with local brews Tailgate Food Competitive Cornhole Multiple screens to watch your teams Live Music by MonkeyFinger Game Day Attire

TICKET PRICE: $150 SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE

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RSVP: 941.366.6646 x207 www.GirlsIncSRQ.org

Classifieds 28 Games 27 Real Estate 25 Weather 27

AUGUST 17, 2023

YOUR NEIGHBORS

Point f sail

The instructors of Sara-Bay Sailing School have loads of experience and plenty of punchlines.

MANAGING EDITOR

“A

ny sailor who says he hasn’t run aground at least once either isn’t a sailor — or is full of crap!”

“Murphy’s Law was invented on a sailboat!”

We’ve hardly left the dock for this intro to sailing lesson and already Sara-Bay Sailing School captains Bill Brooker, 76, and Charlie Schmitz, 77, are trading lighthearted pronouncements as we motor out into Sarasota Bay to find the breeze.

The boat is a Nightwind 35.

National Sailing Hall of Fame member Bruce Kirby designed it.

That probably means something to boat people. For the rest of us?

There’s a roomy cockpit for the current crew of two, plus captains.

A mast with a furled sail towers some 45 feet above us. Below deck, the cabin is spacious enough to come complete with a head, or bathroom.

That one’s easy enough to remember.

But then there’s halyard, tack, lift, luff and bearing. Ropes are lines and lines are sheets. And sheets all have names.

“Learning to sail is like learning a foreign language,” says Schmitz.

“But there are no verbs to conjugate.”

Originally from New Jersey, he delivers lines, the comedic kind, with a veteran entertainer’s sense of timing.

Brooker laughs. “Driving a car is more complicated.”

CLASS IS IN SESSION

Before we climbed aboard on this particular morning, we spent a few minutes in the school’s office in the Harbour Square building, which is styled like a Mediterranean villa — terracotta shingles and a sunfilled atrium lined with commercial offices. Schmitz showed us the American Sailing Association 101 course textbook. For someone who’s lived a life in landlocked states, the text is dense as calculus.

“You don’t have to memorize the book (before class),” said Schmitz.

“What you need to know, I’m going

to show you.”

This is a hands-on learning process, the captains explained. And the sooner it starts on the water, the better for students. Brooker knows from experience. He founded the Sara-Bay Sailing School and Charter in 2001, and since then, his school has trained more than 5,000 sailors.

Some have flown into Sarasota just to take the school’s courses, he said.

During COVID, business exploded, and the school saw three times as many students as it normally does.

“We couldn’t even keep up with it,” said Brooker.

Over two full days, Sara-Bay Sailing can teach students everything they need to know to pass the ASA 101 course. Passing the 100-question test earns graduates a certification that effectively states they are able to sail in familiar waters and moderate winds. The class is also the first in a series of courses for U.S. sailors who would like to earn an International Proficiency Certificate. An IPC is a requirement to charter a sailboat in most European and Mediterranean waters.

Schmitz has been an instructor at Sara-Bay for seven years and has taught sailing for 15. He has only failed one student in that time. But she was reluctant from the getgo, only there at the behest of a significant other, Schmitz explained.

The clientele varies, but is mostly husband-and-wife teams, sailors needing those certifications and first-timers. Sara-Bay focuses on adult learners but has sometimes taught families with children. The age of students has ranged from 8 to 87. Which seems fitting for a school that’s open “24/7/365.25,” as Brooker put it.

The majority of Sara-Bay’s students start from “zero,” said Brooker. Even boat owners.

“You’d be surprised by how many people buy the boat before learning how to sail,” Brooker said.

Brooker has seen most challenges sailing can present, especially in Sarasota’s shallow waters. He started sailing when he was 14 years old. He began sailing around Sarasota in 1975

James Peter

Capt. Bill Brooker, who founded the Sara-Bay Sailing School in 2001, and Capt. Charlie Schmitz

and became an instructor in 1995.

But even for a student of psychology, teaching sailing can present a unique challenge. Namely, husbands and wives who try to commandeer the lessons.

“It goes both ways,” said Brooker.

“But there can be only one instructor on the boat.”

“You can’t teach your wife or kids how to sail,” said Schmitz. “When it’s somebody close, you take it personal.” But aside from occasional family friction, “We seldom get grumpy people,” he added.

“Do you know what the most dangerous part of learning to sail is?”

Brooker asked. “It’s the drive to the school.”

TELLTALES & BEARINGS

We’re far enough from shore to shut off the motor. The Key’s big houses, some vast as palaces, no longer interrupt the wind. We raise the mainsail (Brooker does most of the work).

SHIP’S LOG

Date: July 23, 2023 Lat/Long (depart): 27.39005, -82.64007 Temperature: 92ºF Winds: Variable Port: Sara-Bay Sailing School Crew: Captains (2), ­Landlubbers (2)

SARA-BAY SAILING SCHOOL & CHARTER Where: 4134 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Suite 208A, Longboat Key; SaraBaySailing.com Class offerings: ASA 101-114 Instructors: Bill Brooker, Charlie Schmitz, Sara Allen, Tracey Dell Contact: 941-914-5132 or Capt.Bill@SaraBaySailing.com.

“The three most important things to keep in mind while sailing?” the captains ask.

“What?” the two students reply.

“The wind, the wind, the wind.”

The sail hangs slack, a few ripples of wind snake through it. We’re drifting rather than sailing. At the helm, we get another brief lesson on the points of sail, angles. You can’t sail directly into the wind. You need to be at least 45 degrees off the wind’s direction to go anywhere. We learn to look at the inside of the sail, from which telltales hang in lines of three, thin brightly colored ribbons whose fluttering or streaming signals to us amateurs how we’re doing with our steering (poorly, so far).

With the sail slack, the boat feels sluggish and unwilling at the helm.

But then the sail fills with air. It looks like a white airplane wing.

We take turns at the helm. It’s still like driving a bus but inputs lead to faster results. Hold the course, say the captains.

“Hold” makes it sound simple.

But every moment requires constant adjustment and delicate inputs on the wheel to keep the boat headed true as it skims through an everchanging bay. Boat wakes, waves, changes in the breeze.

Lift, the principle that keeps pilots aloft, is the key, explains Brooker.

At 7 to 8 knots (8-9 mph), we’re going no faster than a cyclist. But it’s hard to pay attention now. Behind the helm, you look up and study cloth and canvas, as ancient Egyptians and Greeks did before you. Five thousand years — the theory has evolved, but the essence remains the same, along with its simple soundtrack: wind, rigging, water.

“It is aerobic. It is a sport. But the big essence we try to instill in people is that this is fun. (Our goal is) make it fun for people,” says Brooker.

Sara-Bay has taught people starting from zero. Two of them sailed to Australia. It took them

years, but not for lack of skill.

“You tell people you’re sailing, they ask where you’re going,” says Brooker. “Sailing? You’re already there.”

HARD TO FORGET

The trip ends before we reach the dock. Schmitz turns on the engines to navigate through the buoys that lead back to Sara-Bay Sailing School. It’s easier to steer now, with the motors rumbling beneath us.

But we’re no longer “there.” We’re going somewhere and in utilitarian fashion.

Pilots, doctors, lawyers, execs — Brooker mentions this segment of his clientele because they all have something in common. They find something on sailboats that they can’t find on land. Peace.

At least until it’s time to return home. Docking can be anxietyproducing, even for people who know what they’re doing, Brooker says.

But the two captains are confident, even with an amateur helmsman at the wheel. Through the corridor of buoys, Brooker and Schmitz give a few simple directions — to mind this channel marker or that one.

“If you’re not bored to death docking, then you’re going too fast,” the captains say.

The two captains laugh, trading short stories of various sailors’ marina mishaps. Brooker and Schmitz take over on the final approach, backing the boat gently into position alongside the school’s dock.

I didn’t dock the boat then. I haven’t docked one before or since.

It’s been weeks since I sailed with Sara-Bay, but I haven’t forgotten the advice, delivered with a punchline.

It could be weeks, months or even years before I dock a sailboat, but I’ll remember to make sure I’m bored doing it.

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JAMES PETER

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

17

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

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

Mote taps high school helpers “My favorite part of working with them is seeing myself in them.

Remembering back to when I was in high school, a lot of these students want to enter the field of marine science.”

Mote fall volunteer program gives high schoolers a taste of marine science.

PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER

— Claire Messmer, Volunteer and intern coordinator

Courtesy photos

Ella Rose Sherman teaches Mote visitors about the strandings investigation at Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

a lot about their topic and love it.

Messmer, originally from Colorado, was a teen volunteer herself.

She contributed more than 1,000 volunteer hours during high school at the Denver Zoo. After graduating from Colorado State University with a master’s degree in zoo, aquarium and animal shelter management, she moved to Sarasota to take her position at Mote in 2022.

“My favorite part of working with them is seeing myself in them,” said Messmer. “Remembering back to when I was in high school, a lot of these students want to enter the field of marine science. So this program helps them understand more what goes into working in the field.

It shows that if you want to be a marine scientist, you can be more than just an aquarist. There’s educa-

tion opportunities, research opportunities, rehabilitation of animals.

And then also just talking to them a little bit about how to become a better interpreter. I think the best form of conservation is education.”

Applications to become a high school volunteer at Mote this fall are still open. The program runs from September through December. Volunteers must be able to complete a minimum of 16 service hours per semester. There is a background training course and an orientation on Sept. 9. Messmer said there is currently no cap to how many people can apply.

“Our volunteers are super dedicated,” said Messmer. “We love and appreciate all of them.”

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Rocco Mendoza operates the Shark Science Station at Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

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After a successful first year, the fall volunteer program at Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium is ready to welcome back its favorite high school students.

Volunteer and Intern Coordinator Claire Messmer started the fall program last year after seeing how much the high schoolers loved volunteering during the summer.

“We had a summer high school volunteer program for several years where high schoolers come for eight weeks during the summer and volunteer one day a week,” said Messmer. “But year-round, we didn’t really have anything specific for high schoolers. Some of them would come and volunteer on the weekends. But we wanted to make a program specifically with a high schooler’s busy schedule in mind.”

Instead of committing one day a week like during the summer, the fall program only requires one day a month consisting of a four-hour shift on any weekend. The volunteers’ main role at Mote is hosting a station that provides information about a topic related to what people see in the aquarium.

“We have four stations throughout the aquarium,” said Messmer.

“Two of them had already existed.

Our adult volunteers had run those stations a few times. Then two of the stations, I created. Those are the shark science station and a coral conservation station. And then we have a cart about our strandings investigation program, and a cart about watershed animals.”

These stations give the high school volunteers a more hands-on experience than the adult volunteers who usually act as aquarium guides.

Messmer said it allows them to learn

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

19

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

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

5527 PALMER CIRCLE, UNIT 206 SELLER REPRESENTED | $465,000

1744 FORTUNA STREET BUYER REPRESENTED | $1,650,000

460 E. ROYAL FLAMINGO DRIVE BUYER REPRESENTED | $3,300,000

114 N. WARBLER LANE SELLER & BUYER REPRESENTED | $3,100,000

398055-1

443F John Ringling Blvd | Sarasota, FL 34236

20

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

Does your pool need some TLC?

We can help

Photos courtesy of Cindy Fischer

The home at 5131 Jungle Plum Road in Siesta Key won an online contest for its location.

Key Realtor’s listing wins contest 406899-1

wwww.lapenseeplumbing.com 778.5622 • 401 Manatee Avenue, Holmes Beach LIC.#CFC1429635 • CPC1459826 • CAC1818472

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Relax and enjoy Key Life online as it shines a light on the people, experiences, culture, arts, architecture and business that set the keys apart - and makes them so special.

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ANNOUNCING...

A

listing from a Realtor at the Longboat Key office of Michael Saunders and Co. placed in the 2023 HGTV Ultimate House Hunt competition and won a category.

Cindy Fischer works and lives on Longboat Key. She has been a Realtor for Michael Saunders and Co. since 2018.

Her listing of 5131 Jungle Plum Road on north Siesta Key took first for the Waterside Homes category of the annual HGTV Ultimate House Hunt.

“I’m super excited for the sellers and because it’s such a beautiful home, everything they did with their designers,” said Fischer. “It’s just a really neat property, so it means a lot to get that recognition.”

The competition is a monthlong online promotion among luxury homes across the U.S. Fischer’s property was one of 84 finalists. There were eight categories in the competition: Amazing Kitchens, Beachfront Homes, Countryside Retreats, Curb Appeal, Downtown Dwellings, Homes With a History, Outdoor Escapes and Waterside Homes. More than 1.2 million votes were cast to determine the winners.

“There were other homes from different parts of the country,” said Fischer. “I remember looking it up, and there were homes from California, Connecticut, Santa Barbara, Cape Cod — from all over.”

The Siesta Key house is listed for $9.98 million. It has six bedrooms, six-and-a-half bathrooms and 6,369 square feet of living area, as well as a pool that overlooks the bay. It is located in the Hidden Harbor neighborhood.

Sharon Gould, a branch manager at ­Michael Saunders and Co., said that Fischer put a lot of hard work into the listing, so she deserves all the recognition it is getting from the competition.

“The waterfront has been such a draw for people to come to the area,” said Fischer.

Cindy Fischer

— PETRA RIVERA

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

Reid MuRphy PResents

Luxury

on the

21

WATER

LONGBOAT KEY MAGNIFICENT GULF FRONT ESTATE $ 22,000,000

Completion September 2023. New 5BD/8BA w/100ft frontage on pristine walking beach. Expansive views from interior living space plus pocket sliders open to lanai/ pool and outdoor sitting area for indoor/outdoor living. Exquisite finishes include fireplace, chef’s kitchen, glass wine room and service bar. First level master w/ private lanai plus junior suite and 2 guest suites also have private terraces. Covered outdoor space has fireplace, outdoor kitchen & dining area. Dramatic infinity pool/ spa w/ sundeck overlooks beautiful Gulf waters. 3 car garage. Home elevator.

NEW LISTING

LONGBOAT KEY BAY ISLES HARBOR $ 9,850,000

Spacious 5BD/7BA 6,556sf custom home stunningly remodeled in 2022. Move-in ready. Large corner lot on bayou with stunning views down waterway to Sarasota Bay.10,000 lb. boat lift, saltwater pool. Remodel included all new custom finishes including painting, hardwood floors, lighting, hardware, countertops and designer upgrades. First floor master retreat has a sitting room and elaborate master bath.

Pool lanai with fireplace, tv, outdoor kitchen and grill. Air conditioned 4 car garage.

Behind security gates manned 24/7.

LONGBOAT KEY EN PROVENCE $ 4,935,000

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

LONGBOAT KEY

• CANAL LOT#1 • CANAL LOT#2

1,995,000 $ 1,995,000 $

Build your dream home on one of north LBK’s most desirable streets.

Premier boating location. Great canal leads directly to Bay & ICW No bridges. Walk to beach.

Meticulous 4 BD/3 BA wide deep water canal with direct access to Sarasota Bay - no bridges! Great dock. 2 boat lifts. Private beach access directly across the street.

SOLD

LONGBOAT KEY GULF FRONT $ 7,250,000

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

Amazing views & beautiful walking beach.

LONGBOAT KEY WATER CLUB $ 3,750,000

Spectacular 6th floor 3BR/4BA redesigned Dover plan. High-end finishes include private elevator. Floor to ceiling windows provide views of Sarasota Bay & city skyline, plus Gulf vistas from a master-suite terrace.

Luxurious living on the beach w/all resort style amenities.

BUYING OR SELLING

CALL REID

LONGBOAT KEY L’AMBIENCE $ 3,650,000

This spacious walkout lives like a home directly on the beach with private steps from your beach front terrace to the sandy beach and Gulf of Mexico for enjoyment of beach walking and swimming.

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22

YourObserver.com

Miri Hardy

Almost all Florida manatees have propeller scars from past collisions with boats.

Complying with “Idle Speed No Wake” speed limits for boats in the park helps protect manatees.

Florida manatees find food, shelter at Myakka MIRI HARDY STAFF WRITER

A

lso known as “sea cows,” Florida manatees are federally designated as threatened due to boat collisions and habitat loss.

As they feed and rest in shallow waters where they’re quite difficult to spot, they’re highly vulnerable to boat collisions. With development and pollution destroying seagrass beds and freshwater aquatic vegetation, they’ve also been losing their main food source in many areas.

These large marine mammals consume approximately 10% of their 1,200-pound-plus body weight in aquatic vegetation a day, preventing overgrowth that could obstruct our Florida waterways. And they provide ample fertilizer to enable water vegetation to thrive! Due to these key roles, manatees are considered a keystone species — without them, aquatic ecosystems would be dramatically different or cease to exist.

Unhealthy or abnormal manatee behavior tells us that something is wrong in the environment, mak-

ing these gentle giants an important indicator species. Their imperiled status is therefore greatly concerning.

The Wild and Scenic Myakka River meanders through Myakka River State Park all the way to Charlotte Bay to the south, where it flows into the Gulf of Mexico. As manatees thrive in both fresh or saltwater, during periods of high water levels, the river offers a gateway to Myakka for aquatic wildlife seeking safe refuge and food. Indeed, to the surprise and delight of park visitors, manatees are regularly observed in the Park.

But visits to Myakka are not without peril for manatees. In the past, during periods of low water levels, the historic weir (which was removed in 2022 to restore the natural flow of the river) and Downs’ dam (a private dam near the park’s south boundary), have unfortunately proven to be obstacles to manatees traversing the river. This is especially an issue when high waters naturally recede after manatees have made their way up into the park. And encountering boats illegally speeding on the river can injure or even kill manatees.

To protect manatees, please give them plenty of space, and never disturb them. And when boating anywhere in Florida, be sure to note and comply with posted speed limits.

YOUR CALENDAR

WILD FLORIDA

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

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

Together, we’re protecting and sharing Myakka’s Magic, to the benefit of future generations, and our own. Follow us @FriendsOfMyakkaRiver.

FRIDAY, AUG. 18

GUITAR BY AKIEM ESDAILE 6-9 p.m. at Whitney’s 6990 Gulf of Mexico Drive Enjoy a drink or a meal at Whitney’s while listening to the sounds of a new generation of jazz guitar.

Clear your mind and enjoy the soothing sounds of Sarasota’s most refreshing jazz guitarist.

THURSDAY, AUG. 24

SUMMER NIGHT OUT AT WHITNEY PLAZA From 4-6 p.m. starting at Driftwood Beach Home and Garden, 6838 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Enjoy a night of mingling at Whitney Plaza. Driftwood Beach Home and Garden will be have champagne for customers while they shop.

Then people can head next door to continue the party at Design 2000 Salon to eat food and desserts provided by other businesses at Whitney Plaza.

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 383-6493.

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND SATURDAYS

LORD’S WAREHOUSE THRIFT STORE The thrift store will be open 9 a.m. to noon at 6140 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Donations are accepted during business hours. Call 383-4738.

TUESDAYS AND FRIDAYS

LONGBOAT LIBRARY From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesdays and Fridays. 555 Bay Isles Road. Call 3832011.

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.

YOGA From 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.

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

Open to the Public

By Appointment Only - 941.366.CATS (2287)

941.724.7228

CathyMeldahl@michaelsaunders.com

2542 17th St., Sarasota, FL 34234 For pricing and services, go to www.catdepot.org

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440 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Longboat Key, FL 34228

CAT CARE CLINIC

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on the bay.

The calming quiet of the water.

The refreshing warmth of the Florida sun. This is your slice of paradise. Picture yourself here, ideally situated on Sarasota Bay at Plymouth Harbor.

With so much to explore and experience so close to Downtown Sarasota, St. Armands Circle and beyond, you’re never far from a new adventure.

Imagine a home where there is less reason to hurry or worry and more occasions to breathe, laugh, and drink it all in.

Learn more about Plymouth Harbor on Sarasota Bay by calling (941) 200-0254 or visiting plymouthharbor.org.

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406809-1

• 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

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

23

THE ACKERMAN GROUP 941.387.1820 TOP PRODUCING SMALL TEAM IN SARASOTA COUNTY

www.ackermansrq.com

RYAN ACKERMAN

ryan@ackermangroup.net

BARBARA ACKERMAN

barbara@ackermangroup.net

AMAZING OPPORTUNITY AT GRAND BAY I NEW LISTING NEW LISTING W

NE

ICE

PR

GRAND BAY I - LONGBOAT KEY

$2,399,000

3060 GRAND BAY BLVD. #126 | 3 FULL BR/3.5BA | 2,925 SF Protected | 2 Side-by-Side Parking Spaces with EV Charging Station WATER CLUB ISouth Side Location in Bldg. I | 10 FT Ceilings $3,495,000 THE SEA BREEZE Open Kitchen & Views Spanning Over the LBKC Golf Course, Sarasota Bay & Downtown | Pet-Friendly 9008 MIDNIGHT PASSSkyline RD., #5 SARASOTA, FL Community 1241 GULF OF MEXICO DR., #704, LONGBOAT KEY, FL

$3,199,000

3BR/3.5 BA • 3,700 SF • Private 2-Car Garage

3BR/4BA • 3,045 SF

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

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.

WHY GRAND BAY???

“Love the ever-changing unobstructed panorama of the Bay from every room and our large terraces!”

– John & Mary P. LA BELLASARA $4,289,000 SIESTA COVE $4,250,000 5212 SIESTA COVE DRIVE, SARASOTA 464 GOLDEN GATE PT., #503 , SARASOTA, FL “...the special recreational activities Golf Course, Bay & City Views Clubhouse / Bar 3BR/4.5 BA • 3,490 SF • 2-Car Garage 5BR/6 BAperfect + 2 Halffor Baths • 5,133 SF • Situated on 1.5 lots and the private beach are Rarely available 5th floor residence offering expansive bay and city views, an open floor plan & Spacious, beautifully landscaped 2-story waterfront point property on a clu-de-sace, with my husband and me andboat even full concierge services in a gated, pet-friendly community. a 120’ dockour & 10,000 lb. lift. Exceptional open water views. grandchildren!”

– Julie & Steve R.

NOW PENDING NOW PENDING “Our apartment in Grand Bay lives like

NOW PENDING

State-of-the-Art Fitness Center

AQUARIUS CLUB

$1,260,000

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

a home & the elevator coming straight up from the garage gives us ultimate privacy and convenience.”

– Frank & Rebecca M.

NOW PENDING

Private Beach

“Love the extra security of Grand Bay’s $1,899,000 24/7 guard gates and proximity COREY’S LANDING LA BELLASARA $3.395,000 LIDO REGENCY $549,000 the bestKEY Longboat has GATE to PT., #202, SARASOTA 1700 BENJAMIN FRANKLIN DR.#5F, SARASOTA 3414 FAIR OAKS LANE, to LONGBOAT 464Key GOLDEN 4BR/4BA • 3,729 SF • Bay, Golf Course views the 1BR/1.5BA • 981 SF • Bay and city views 3BR+DEN/3.5BA • 3,153 offer... especially short bike ride to SF • 2-Car garage Publix!”

– Melinda & Charles L.

CONFUSED ABOUT NEW CONSTRUCTION OPTIONS?

DEMYSTIFY THE EXPERIENCE — CALL THE ACKERMAN GROUP! 941-387-1820 Two Har-Tru Tennis Courts

Heated Olympic Size Pool wth Lap Lanes & Hot Tub

PRE-CONSTRUCTION

AMAZING OPPORTUNITY AT GRAND BAY II

G

TIN

LIS

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

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

GRAND BAY II - LONGBOAT KEY

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

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

$2,495,000

1355 2nd Street Sarasota, FL 34236 Completion: Winter 2023

509 Golden Gate Point 1546 4th Street 1100 Blvd. of the Arts 1100 Blvd. of the Arts Sarasota, FL 34236 Sarasota, FL 34236 Sarasota, FL 34236 Sarasota, FL 34236 ARMANDS OFFICE LOCATION | 433 JOHNCompletion: RINGLING BLVD., STE. F | SARASOTA, FL 34236 Completion: Winter 2024 Fall 2025 Completion: Fall 2026 Completion:ST.Fall 2026

430 Kumquat Court Sarasota, FL 34236 Completion:: Fall 2025

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3040 GRAND BAY BLVD. #221 | 3BR/3.5BA | 2,925 SF Furnished | 2 Garage Parking Spaces | Beautiful Bay & City Skyline Views | Wraparound Terrace | 10 FT Ceilings Resort-Style Amenities | Pet Friendly Community | Includes Private Beach Club Membership THE COLLECTION EN POINTE ZAHRADA 2 ROSEWOOD RESIDENCES VILLA BALLADA ONE PARK SARASOTA

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

LONGBOAT KEY 876 Tarawitt Drive 4 Beds 3 Baths 2,894 Sq. Ft. Brian Loebker & Jonathan Abrams 941-735-4393 A4564430 $5,972,000

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 $2,877,777

LONGBOAT KEY 545 Sanctuary Drive B406 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,375 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy, PA & Gail Wittig, LLC 941-961-8850 A4576305 $2,475,000

LONGBOAT KEY 699 Penfield Street 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,536 Sq. Ft. Cathy Meldahl, Pa & Susan Smith 941-724-7228 A4560631 $2,400,000

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. Beverly St Hilaire & Julie Klick 818-416-2505 A4575835 $2,300,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3605 Fair Oaks Place 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,713 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy, PA & Gail Wittig, LLC 941-961-8850 A4578278 $2,200,000

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 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 524 Halyard Lane 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,668 Sq. Ft. The Walter Group 941-809-0907 A4561273 $1,699,000

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 5265 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 304 3 Beds 3 Baths 1,453 Sq. Ft. Adam Cuffaro 941-812-0791 A4574390 $1,200,000

LONGBOAT KEY 210 Sands Point Road 2304 1 Bed 1 Baths 650 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy, PA & Gail Wittig, LLC 941-961-8850 A4574879 $1,050,000

LONGBOAT KEY 4234 Gulf Of Mexico Drive F1 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,636 Sq. Ft. Lenore Treiman 941-356-9642 A4576771 $1,050,000

LONGBOAT KEY 2123 Harbourside Drive 903 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,224 Sq. Ft. Julie Klick 941-780-6001 A4576889 $1,000,000

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 $995,000

LONGBOAT KEY 763 Saint Judes Drive N A Bill Anderson & Adrienne Scott 941-313-4059 A4575496 $995,000

LONGBOAT KEY 100 Sands Point Road 225 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,492 Sq. Ft. Nora Johnson 941-809-1700 A4574836 $835,000

LONGBOAT KEY 4725 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 213 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,071 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy, PA & Gail Wittig, LLC 941-961-8850 A4570860 $794,000

LONGBOAT KEY 525 Channel Lane 2 Beds 2 Baths 988 Sq. Ft. Tryla Brown Larson 941-962-1122 A4578209 $750,000

LONGBOAT KEY 6700 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 135 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,441 Sq. Ft. Richard Perlman 941-228-8580 A4563904 $699,000

LONGBOAT KEY 542 Sutton Place 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,450 Sq. Ft. Cindy Fischer 941-465-1124 A4568132 $580,000

LONGBOAT KEY 4320 Falmouth Drive B102 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,072 Sq. Ft. Malihe Karimi 941-376-5099 A4554376 $564,000

LONGBOAT KEY 2850 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 12 2 Beds 1 Baths 695 Sq. Ft. Marybeth Flynn 941-704-1477 A4570070 $500,000

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

LONGBOAT KEY 781 Hideaway Bay Drive 4 Beds 4 Baths 5,469 Sq. Ft. Mark J Baron 631-800-1125 A4554268 $4,995,000

LONGBOAT KEY 7094 Longboat Drive E 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,916 Sq. Ft. Linda Driggs 941-374-2920 A4576834 $3,200,000

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM

406107-1

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

JULY 31-AUG. 4

ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR

A

condominium in L’Ambiance at Longboat Key Club tops all transactions in this week’s real estate. Richard and Martha Barone, of Lyndhurst, Ohio, sold their Unit J603 condominium at 435 L’Ambiance Drive to David Rayner and Wendy O’Neill, of Longboat Key, for $3.85 million. Built in 1994, it has two bedrooms, two-and-two-half baths and 2,634 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.05 million in 1999.

BIRD KEY

ERF Sarasota LLC sold the home at 469 E. Royal Flamingo Drive to Jeff and Carol Edgar, of Sarasota, for $3.3 million. Built in 1977, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,279 square feet of living area.

It sold for $1.4 million in 2015.

EMERALD HARBOR

Anthony and Margaret Pescatello sold their home at 690 Old Compass Road to MDB LBK LLC for $1.75 million. Built in 1970, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,458 square feet of living area.

It sold for $156,000 in 1981.

ST. ARMANDS TOWERS NORTH

Joseph Kronick and Gail Margot Kronick, of Quebec, Canada, sold their Unit 92 condominium at 1 Benjamin Franklin Drive to Christopher Brent Ford and Cortney Ford, of Flower Mound, Texas, for $1,575,000. Built in 1968, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,389 square feet of living area. It sold for $205,000 in 1995.

REAL ESTATE

Condo in L’Ambiance tops sales at $3.85M

25

PORTOBELLO

Virginia Long and William Gerard Burns and Allison Marie Long Burns, of Northville, Michigan, sold their Unit A-304 condominium at 3235 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Portobello A304 LLC for $1.15 million.

Built in 1975, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,260 square feet of living area. It sold for $755,000 in 2004.

BEACHPLACE

Michel and Karen Sage, trustees, sold the home at 1095 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Thomas Shapira, trustee, of Deerfield, Illinois, for $977,500. Built in 1981, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,503 square feet of living area. It sold for $629,000 in 2007.

WHITNEY BEACH

Moon Beach 183 LLC sold the Unit 183 condominium at 6800 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Andrew Whitman and Victoria Whitman, trustees, of Westfield, New Jersey, for $732,000. Built in 1970, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,367 square feet of living area. It sold for $593,000 in 2022.

Courtesy photos

A condominium at 435 L’Ambiance Drive with two bedrooms, two-and-two-half baths and 2,634 square feet of living space recently sold for $3.85 million.

bedrooms, two baths and 1,453 square feet of living area. It sold for $390,000 in 2009.

SEAPLACE

Charles and Darlene White, of Trinity, sold their Unit M1-502-F

condominium at 2045 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Seaplace M1-502 LLC for $530,000. Built in 1974, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 928 square feet of living area. It sold for $155,000 in 1999.

BANYAN BAY CLUB

Valerie Pickar, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, sold her Unit 404 condominium at 5260 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Lisa Dowling-Surella, of Long Valley, New Jersey, for $690,000. Built in 1974, it has three

In with the new NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION

TOP BUILDING PERMITS These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of Aug. 4 - Aug. 10 in order of dollar amounts.

L O N G B OAT K E Y ADDRESS 531 Harbor Cove Circle

PERMIT New Con - Res

APPLICANT Jack Brown

AMOUNT($) $2,000,045

6555 Bayou Hammock Road

New Con - Res

Jacob Martin

$650,000

2045 Gulf Of Mexico Drive

Alt/Renovation

Alan And

$109,078

# 403

Dianne Frank Trust

691 Old Compass Road

Dock/Seawall/Lift

Michael Murphey

$76,038

527 Putter Lane

Dock/Seawall/Lift

DLG Trust

$63,037

5055 Gulf Of Mexico Drive

Alt/Renovation

Robert Voskovitch

$50,883

Electrical

David Massad

$50,000

Downtown St. Petersburg

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

Unit 114 675 Longboat Club Road # 26a

- Alt/Renovation 6529 Gulfside Road

Roof - Re-roof

Jeff Nalin

$42,295

545 Sanctuary Drive # B604

Electrical -

Thomas Pluss

$40,000

Longboat Key

Alt/Renovation 370 Gulf Of Mexico Drive # 435

Building - Shutters

Carol Thorstenson

$37,608

4320 Falmouth Drive Unit 204

Alt/Renovation

Daniel Noveske

$30,000

Trust 100 Sands Point Road

Mechanical

Rebecca W Bilbo

$29,780

# 114

- A/C Change Out

Revocable Trust

545 Sanctuary Drive # A303

Electrical

Joseph Packee

$28,365

Building

Anthony Lucki

$26,840

- Concrete Repair

Family Trust

1050 Longboat Club Road

Electrical

Albert Dombrowski

$25,545

# 504

- Alt/Renovation

675 Longboat Club Road # 26a

Plumbing

David Massad

$22,566

4311 Gulf Of Mexico Drive

Building

Micahel Berman

$21,440

Unit 503

- Windows/Doors

1445 Gulf Of Mexico Drive # 502

Electrical

Beth S Bromberg

$20,774

- Alt/Renovation

Revocable Trust

Electrical - Other

Thomas

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

- Alt/Renovation 609 Cutter Lane

Downtown Sarasota

- Alt/Renovation

380 Gulf Of Mexico Drive # 515

Mechanical

$17,490

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

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

A Simonian Trust Mary Black

$16,279

- A/C Change Out Source: Town of Longboat Key

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

Licensed Real Estate Broker

406131-1

531 Harbor Cay Drive

The Collection | 941.232.2868 | thecollection1335.com

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

TOP COLDWELL BANKER SALES TEAM IN FLORIDA

JUDY KEPECZ-HAYS TEAM

2251 Gulf of Mexico Drive 204 | Aria - LONGBOAT KEY $10,500,000

435 L’Ambiance Dr #H802 | LONGBOAT KEY $3,995,000

3 bed + office or 4 bed, 3.5 bath | 4,032 Sq Ft Living in Aria is Instant enjoyment! Modern luxury living in this spectacular gulf-front corner residence that lives like a home on the beach. It offers a private gulf front 3400 sqft terrace with a private 49 ft. infinity edge lap pool and a summer kitchen for outdoor living. 4-5 car garage, social room, guest suite, fitness center, on-site management. www.Aria204.com

2 bed + den or 3 bed, 4 bath | 2,525 Sq Ft This remodeled residence boasts views, quality, and casual elegance.

270 degrees of endless views of the city and truquoise waters of the Gulf looking South. The residence has newer windows and doors with walls of glass to bring the outside in. Custom Eurotech cabinets in kitchen and bathrooms. Offering concierge services, a resort-style pool & spa, three additional guest suites (bedrooms), 3 social rooms, on site management and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Pet welcome. www.435LAmbianceH802.com

Transferrable Beach Club Membership Available Immediately

Ritz-Carlton Managed 1300 Benjamin Franklin Dr #907 $3,800,000

50 Central Ave #16D | Downtown Sarasota | $2,350,000

3 bed, 2.5 bath | 3,057 Sq Ft Experience the beachfront living paired with The Ritz-Carlton's unparalleled services. The corner residence features an open floor plan with panoramic views of Sarasota & her islands, with sunrise and sunset. Wrap-around terrace, guest suites, social rooms, concierge, 2 pets welcome, 2 parking spaces. www.RitzCarlton907.com

2 bed, 2 parking, 2 pets welcome | 1,700 Sq Ft Experience panoramic views from this 16th-floor boutique condo in downtown Sarasota. With each room offering stunning sights and an additional 300 sq ft west-facing balcony, it's the perfect spot for enjoying breathtaking sunsets. Located amidst downtown's buzz, this quiet, private oasis lets you relish the vibrant city life from a serene retreat. www.50Central16D.com

408 Jackson Dr | St. Armands | $2,988,000

1930 Harbourside Dr #122 | Fairway Bay | $978,000

3 bed + den or 4 bedrooms, 3 bath | 2,344 Sq Ft Steps to St. Armands Circle! Residence with a private pool in a botanical setting with updates. The soaring ceilings create abundant space, complemented by tile floors, a wall of sliders, molding, wood accents, and recessed lighting.

2 bed, 2 bath | 1,312 Sq Ft This residence has southeastern exposure with epic sunrises and Sarasota skyline views. Almost new two-bedroom, two-bath residence where a high-end interior designer selected impressive new finishes and features. Fitness center, pool & tennis.

THIS RESIDENCE HAS DEEDED BEACH ACCESS www.1930HarboursideDr122.com

OPEN HOUSE - FRI. 8/18 (4 - 7pm) & SUN. 8/20 (11 - 2pm)

TOP Sales Team in the state of Florida

$2.4 Billion Career Sales

www.408JacksonDr.com

Coldwell Banker Realty

Lori Lawson Judy Kepecz-Hays Steven Kepecz

941-587-1700 941-376-6411

JUDY KEPECZ-HAYS TEAM

423 St. Armands Circle Sarasota, FL 34236

Kepecz@JudyHays.com | www.LongboatKeyLuxury.com

408270-1

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YourObserver.com

27

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

SUNRISE / SUNSET Sunrise Sunset

FRIDAY, AUG. 18

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.

WEATHER

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

FORECAST High: 88 Low: 79 Chance of rain: 59%

Thursday, Aug. 17

7:01a

8:05p

Friday, Aug. 18

7:02a

8:04p

Saturday, Aug. 19

7:02a

8:03p

Sunday, Aug. 20

7:03a

8:02p

SATURDAY, AUG. 19

Monday, Aug. 21

7:03a

8:01p

High: 92 Low: 79 Chance of rain: 70%

Tuesday, Aug. 22

7:03a

8:00p

Wednesday, Aug. 23

7:04a

7:59p

MOON PHASES SUNDAY, AUG. 20 High: 92 Low: 78 Chance of rain: 64%

Aug. 24 First

Aug. 30 Full

Sept. 6 Last

Sept. 14 New

TIDES Highs Lows

Joel Levine took this photo of the sun coming through the clouds above Beachplace on Longboat Key.

Thursday, Aug. 17

2:19a

1:04p

7:17a

8:50p

Friday, Aug. 18

2:25a

1:41p

8:00a

9:10p

Saturday, Aug. 19

2:36a

2:21p

8:44a

9:31p

Sunday, Aug. 20

2:53a

3:05p

9:30a

9:53p

Monday, Aug. 21

3:15a

3:57p

10:22a

10:15p

Tuesday, Aug. 22

3:43a

5:01p

11:20a

10:36p

Wednesday, Aug. 23

4:16a

6:35p

12:31p

10:51p

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

KITCHEN | CABINETRY OUTDOOR PAVERS

at MANASOTA FLOORING INC Pur-fect for the Whole Family

celebrity cipher

ACROSS

31 As written, in journalism 1 Diamond ___ (Ted Lasso 32 Candle count 34 Casual Friday castoffs group) 36 Invites to enter 5 Hatfields and McCoys 38 Company with a gecko 9 Dapper dude? rep 12 Scrubbing implement 40 Political pundit Molly 18 Land of the Blarney 42 Marvel-ous Larson?

Stone 43 Collar 19 Much-maligned 1980s 45 ... for a paparazzo? car import 48 “Rock the Block” chan20 Taipei tapioca tea 21 Yogi’s breathing directive nel 22 Job description for a real 49 LMAO cousin 52 Lacking sheen estate flipper?

53 One learning to give a 25 Keys on a piano hoot?

26 Krispy ___ 54 Mimicked 27 Hen holders 55 Kid played by Ron 28 Identify in a Facebook Howard photo 56 Journalist Garrick 30 Signed a deal

58 Embassy worker ... or what she carries 60 Least likely to get it 62 Saudi neighbor 65 “Make it snappy!”

67 Asian title of respect 68 ... for a bra salesperson?

73 It means nothing in soccer 75 Italian wine region 77 Work with dough 78 Overtighten guitar strings, perhaps 80 Place with Wi-Fi 83 Cartoonish food-fight sound 86 Elite British prep school 87 Yard sale disclaimer 89 Jack of “The Great Dictator”

91 Alpo shelfmate 92 Common forms of ID 93 Hair salon names such as “Julius Scissors” and “Anita Haircut” 94 ... for a web developer?

98 EverQuest or Final Fantasy (Abbr.)

99 Brazilian soccer legend 100 Inexplicably stop answering texts 101 Naomi of tennis 104 The whole shebang 106 Red as a ___ 107 iPhone download 108 Hound or badger 110 Sink hole 111 “Fantastic!”

113 Turner of “Poldark” 116 Bar request

“NL MYUFCSVD NUNSODV HYS HGGSWDROZ MSUMXS’V XRJSV, SGGSWDROZ WPHOZS, ASROZ H YUXS NUCSX RO DPS WUNNFORDL.” NHZRW BUPOVUO

“ZN Z BUKF, UK UN ZIPZFN BMXTYIIURE. JOK YCYGF VZF UR XYDUBM BUKF, U EUCY KWZRLN KWZK U ZX ZIUCY.” ZIYSZRVGM EMRAZIYA URZGGUKO

“PL VHL ULHL IC DVZYU VI IUL CEEX VTE DFJL CZH DFJLX XC PLDD IUVI ELVIU PFDD IHLNRDL IC IVSL ZX.” KUVHDLX RZSCPXSF © 2023 NEA, Inc.

Puzzle Three Clue: T equals N

©2023 Universal Uclick

118 Clarke of “Game of 50 La Scala offering Thrones” 51 ... for a manicurist?

120 ... for a Formula 1 racer? 57 Days long ago 123 Karl of “Patton” 59 Mama of song 124 Tread-free 61 Cast off 125 Dance bit 63 “Mamma ___!”

126 Fish with no pelvic fins 64 Some conjunctions 127 Stick in a slot 66 Attach a corsage 128 Husky reply 69 Village north of Chicago 129 Peacocks pulled her 70 Up to chariot 71 Savory taste category 130 Christiania, today 72 Road trip break 74 One can see right DOWN through it 1 Cruise ship levels 76 ___ and turn 2 Roughneck’s structure 79 Thompson of “Sylvie’s 3 Home of Homer Love” 4 Garment line 81 Clear-headed 5 “Just so you’re aware ...” 82 TV host Jane (Abbr.)

84 Big Bad Wolf’s targets 6 Unit of prevention 85 Stand the test of time 7 Food to “leggo” 87 Car loan letters 8 Artsy NYC neighborhood 88 Superhero susceptible 9 Mohawk and pixie to kryptonite 10 Does some fencing, 90 “___ of Evolution” (Alamaybe nis Morissette song) 11 SpaceX partner, at times 95 Gossipy opening 12 Cousteau’s milieu 96 Out to lunch, say 13 Strong as a bull 97 Channel that covers 14 Guarded soccer sites bracketology 15 ... at a Planters factory? 99 More like an evergreen 16 Drive away forest 17 Like a useless battery 102 “___ Out” (2019 film) 20 Restaurant task 103 Remote need, perhaps 23 Oral-B alternative 105 Pina colada addition?

24 Choose to take part 106 How some musicians 29 Starving artist’s attic play quarters 107 Emotion that can raise 33 Effective application blood pressure 35 ExxonMobil brand 109 Canvas coater 37 Certain sibling, in slang 110 Singer Lovato 39 Spots in the sea 112 Jessica of “L.A.’s Finest” 40 “___ be a cold day ...”

114 “Okay, spill!”

41 Apt anagram for “evil” 115 Entrance fee, of a sort 42 Cheap Monopoly avenue 117 Cookie with lemon and 44 Brief letters? mint varieties 46 “Yer ___ here!”

119 Insect in some farms 47 Nashville sound?

121 1980s TV ET 48 Skeptical interjections 122 AGI checker 49 Sticks in a boat

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: A equals Z

JOB DESCRIPTIONS by Pam Amick Klawitter, edited by Jeff Chen

Puzzle One Clue: X equals l

crossword

399844-1

Sarasota 941.355.8437 | Bradenton 941.748.4679 | Venice 941.493.7441 | manasotaonline.com

sudoku

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

©2023 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

8-17-23

Made for where you live. Here!

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals

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.

Use the RED PAGES to clean out your garage CALL 941-955-4888

Announcements At 3:00 PM on August 20, the Greater Hurst Chapel AME Church will host a Women’s Day service, honoring twelve African American female business owners in the Sarasota/Bradenton area. Pastor Anita Williams of the Bethel CME Church will be the guest speaker.

All are welcome to 2730 N. Links Ave., Sarasota 34234 as we celebrate our brave and enterprising women! Female owned food trucks will be on hand after the service to sell dinners. For more information contact Elizabeth.deane1@verizon.net.

Garage/ Moving/ Estate Sales LONGBOAT KEY Multi-house Yard Sale, Lyons Lane Furniture, fishing gear, jewelry, home goods.

Saturday, August 19, 8am-2pm

Reservations 941-383-5577 wagnerlbkrentals@gmail.com Visa/MC 5360 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Suite

M-F

real estate

Ask about our special rates!

Condos/Apts. for Rent 2BR/2BA LONGBOAT KEY Annual Rental PH, jaw dropping view of the Bay, completely upgraded and elegantly furnished. Fully equipped. All amenities wanted are included.

200 ft. from beach. $5,500/m plus first and last month's rent and $1,000 deposit. Available now. 407-451-7179

SELL IT NOW! 941-955-4888

Wagner Realty Since 1939 www.rentalsonlongboat.com

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

15% DISCOUNT FOR 4-WEEK RUN Color background: $ 5 per week Ad border: as low as $3 per week PLACE YOUR AD: Call: 941-955-4888 Email: RedPages@ YourObserver.com Online: YourObserver.com /RedPages

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE! 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.

Motorcycles

OLD MOTORCYCLES WANTED *Before 1985* ALL Makes & ModelsAny Condition!

Running or Not! $Cash Paid$ Call 845-389-3239 cyclesndmore10@gmail.com

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

Call 941-383-3338.

RED PAGES Made for where you live. Here!

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

Advertise your business or service in the Observer

•Caregivers/Companions •Personal Care •CNA’s/HHA’s •Assistance with

RED PAGES RED PAGES 941-955-4888

Phone (941) 809-1438

CALL TODAY Painting 941-955-4888

HHA# 299994819

YourObserver.com/RedPages

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

Advertise your business or service in the Observer

Daily Living Activities •Hourly 24/7 Care •Affordable Rates •Licensed/ Bonded/ Insured

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

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

This week’s Crossword answers

CALL TODAY

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.

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “My proudest moments are affecting people’s lives, effecting change, being a role model in the community.”

Magic Johnson Puzzle Two Solution: “As a city, it is always compelling. But every day in Mexico City, I give thanks that I am alive.”

Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu Puzzle Three Solution: “We are here to laugh at the odds and live our lives so well that Death will tremble to take us.”

Charles Bukowski

This week’s Sudoku answers

©2023 Universal Uclick

TREASURES found here.

Looking for something?

Your lucky discovery is closer than you think.

Perfect Solutions For Seniors

POST YOUR AD WITH EASE

YourObserver.com/RedPages

DESPERATELY NEEDED Low mileage, cars and trucks.

Also rare or unusual vehicles.

Larry 941-350-7993

Adult Care Services

©2023 NEA, Inc.

TWO STOOLS for $200. Very good condition. 917-331-4315

CASH FOR YOUR CAR We come to you!

Ho Ho Buys cars.

941-270-4400.

Between Houses or Condos

Rental office 9a.m. - 5p.m.

You’re only cheating yourself.

TRANSPORT CHAIR, used once.

Paid 239. Sell for $160.

Call Dave 941-928-3211

Autos Wanted

Beachfront, Bayfront and In

Longboat Key, FL 34228

peekers’ place

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

Ad runs 2 consecutive weeks in 1 Observer.

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

auto

stuff Items Under $200

SEASONAL RATES

101

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

Please call Marc: 941-321-0707

WEEKLY MONTHLY

Paint the town RED! Paint the town RED!

INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888

redpages@yourobserver.com • yourobserver.com/redpages

home services

RED PAGES

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

Furniture Repair

MediCupping & Massage Therapy services for healing

Furniture Sales & Repairs Cushions • Slings • Re-powdercoating

Rest your mind & body. Connect with your spirit.

408229

941-504-0903

FREE PICKUP / DELIVERY • FREE ONSITE QUOTES

Handyman

Kenneth Fuhlman Inc.

INTERIOR RENOVATIONS & ANYTHING FROM THE GROUND UP

Building & Roofing Contractor

TEXT OR CALL 574-354-7772

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

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

408401

KEENS HANDYMAN SERVICES

Health

William J. Leininger, JD

GET YOUR LIFE BACK!

941-626-3194

Licensed & Insured CCC - 058059 CBC - 1253936

Do You Have Neck or Low Back Pain?

Do You Want To Avoid Surgery?

1/10/23, 10:25 AM

BLACK LABEL CAR SERVICE

Give Us a Call - We Can Help

Auto Service

FREE CONSULTATION 941.358.2224

Luxury for Less

408243

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

SELL YOUR CAR!

Board Certified in the specialty of non-surgical spinal decompression

FAST • EASY • SAFE

WE COME TO YOU

Home Watch

Low Mileage, Cars & Trucks.

Also Rare or Unusual Vehicles.

dan@shorelockhomewatch.com

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

Serving AMI, LBK and Bradenton for 25 years

Insurance

407348

941-778-2882 • 941-387-0607

MIC INSURANCE

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ows

150

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

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

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

Home • Condo • Auto • Umbrella • Boat • Flood

408236

NEED HELP?

Find local business and service professionals in the Observer Red Pages.

YourObserver.com/RedPages

STANDARD WINDOWS

5

www.shorelockhomewatch.com

DRIES IN HOURS – NOT DAYS • SATISFACTION GUARANTEED

1/1

Lic./Ins.

25

UP TO

$

408633

(941)544-0475

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

https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?tab=rm&ogbl#search/royaltreasurecasino%40yahoo.com?projector=1

SPECIAL 00

Carpet Cleaning

Summer Clean Up!

Windows

INCLUDING SCREENS, TRACKS, MIRRORS & FANS

FIRST RESPONDER OWNED & OPERATED 407641

UNIQUE SPORT & IMPORTS 941-350-7993

407648

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

DESPERATELY NEEDED

10% off

Form Serving Longboat Key Since 2005

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.com

Autos Wanted

Airports, Concerts, Dinners & Cruises www.towncarservicebradenton.com

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

Midtown Medical Park 1215 S. East Ave. Suite 210 Sarasota, FL 34239 408631

HoHoBuysCars.com

941-248-4734

Res./Com.

DR. DAVID CIFRA, DC 5-Star Rated

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Transportation

408243

408630

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

LMT, CMCE

Roofing

KEENS HANDYMAN SERVICES

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

408636

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.

407656

Heart & Sole Healing Space, LLC

Patio Furniture Repairs.com

Divorce without Lawyers

941.270.4400

Massage

407344

Attorney

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

Call to reserve your ad space: 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!

408638

Sandra Smith | 941.383.3388

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023

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

DOWNTOWN PENTHOUSE - “THE ONE” AT 1350 MAIN

Welcome to your exclusive downtown oasis, “The One” at 1350 Main, a Penthouse residence perched on the 17th floor, boasting breathtaking panoramic views of downtown, Sarasota Bay, and the Gulf of Mexico. Built in 2007, this meticulously remodeled residence offers the epitome of city living with an impressive three bedrooms, and a sprawling 3,208 SF of interior space. Step inside this modern masterpiece, and be instantly captivated by the open layout, accentuated by walls of floor-to-ceiling glass that bathe the home in natural light and frame the aweinspiring vistas.

1350 MAIN STREET #1704

3040 GRAND BAY BOULEVARD #251

$2,295,000

$5,495,000 www.TheOne1704.com

1211 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #802

$1,995,000

4525 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #404

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

Embrace the captivating beach-to-bay views that stretch from the Gulf, the Bay, and downtown from this sunny, southfacing 8th-floor residence offers an open and spacious interior and two terraces.

This furnished, direct Gulf-front residence is bathed in natural light. Offering a blend of comfort and relaxation, this 4th-floor retreat is an opportunity to relish inspiring beach and sunset views from every room.

www.GrandBay251.com

www.Promenade802.com

www.TheCastillian404.com

201 NORTH WASHINGTON DRIVE

$2,195,000

816 JUNGLE QUEEN WAY

$1,599,000

235 COCOANUT AVENUE #125D

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

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.201NorthWashington.com

www.816JungleQueen.com

www.MarqueeEnVille125D.com

$1,100,000

$949,000

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.

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