Longboat Observer 10.12.23

LONGBOAT

Observer

Smart tennis.

Longboat Key’s weekly newspaper since 1978

PAGE 14

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

FREE • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

VOLUME 46, NO. 10

Sarasota Bay water quality best in years There’s plenty to celebrate, but experts say the ‘rerestoration’ of area waters has only just begun. SEE PAGE 3

YOUR TOWN

MEDALS OF HONOR

The fire rescue awards honored crew and citizens.

SEE PAGE 5

Petra Rivera

Ken Christy and Chris Sachs

New era

The Longboat Key Kiwanis Club on Oct. 5 inducted its new officers for the year of 202324 at the club’s bi-monthly breakfast.

Kiwanis Lt. Gov. Ken Christy led the meeting. Christy inducted Michael Garey as the immediate past president, Svetlana Ivashchenko as the secretary, Garnett Black as president-elect/vice president and Chris Sachs as president.

Earl Larson was reinducted as treasurer.

The new officers kicked off their term by brainstorming ways to promote their mission statement at the Lawn Party in December. They plan to put “Helping Kids In Need” in front of their Kiwanis Club name on all marketing now as a way to teach people about what they do and that the most important part of their club is fundraising for children.

Sachs said that he has been set up well by his predecessors Garey and Lynn Larson.

Carter Weinhofer

Longboat Key Club Moorings Marina Director Dennis Matthews, Judy Shreve, Chuck Shreve and Fire Chief Paul Dezzi. Chuck Shreve was awarded the Medal of Honor for his quick actions that prevented a boat fire from spreading in the Longboat Key Club Moorings.

A+E

Carter Weinhofer

Little library back at Bayfront Park The Little Free Library is back up at Bayfront Park and ready for book browsers.

Although Hurricane Idalia’s main impact was the storm surge, winds were strong enough to knock down the Little Free Library located by the playground at Bayfront Park.

Little Free Library is a nonprofit based in Minnesota, with the goal of expanding access to books across the world.

Community members can browse the selection of books in the stand and are free to take or leave a book.

Courtesy image

Sarasota County Library recently hosted an open house for its new Pop-Up Library.

LIBRARY ON THE ROAD Sarasota County Library services and collections will soon be available on the Key via bookmobile. SEE PAGE 9

Horrible fun.

INSIDE

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

Commission collaboration

A plan proposal that was under review from 2017 to 2019 would have narrowed a portion of Fruitville Road to two lanes and added three roundabouts.

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R City officials shared with all commissioners the latest on the New Pass dredging project, slated for summer 2024.

While the main purpose of the project is to make the channel navigable, an added benefit would be the use of sand from dredging.

That sand is mainly proposed for nourishment on Lido Key, but conversations are in the works for possibly sharing the sand with Longboat Key beaches. .

At a recent public meeting, Sarasota residents explored different options, including a complete street, streetscape and no build. The survey said 44% of people were in favor of the complete street possibility.

Longboat Key Mayor Ken Schneier was enthused at the possible project.

“If there’s anything we can do to help you in lobbying for funds, we’d be willing to do that and happy to do that,” Schneier said.

The idea will also be on the docket for the November City Commission workshop.

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WATER TAXI

The last item on the agenda covered the city’s collaboration for a water taxi service.

The city of Sarasota completed a feasibility survey and, with collaboration from the county, is planning to integrate the system into Sarasota County’s 2024 Breeze Transit Development Plan.

Commissioner Koch mentioned that Longboat Key at one time had a water taxi service, and asked Longboat Key commissioners to collaborate with researching where the service would once again be feasible on the island.

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City of Sarasota officials presented a synopsis of the project, which wrapped up construction in April.

Right now, work is being done to complete the landscaping component of the project.

The total cost of the project came to $8.9 million.

This will be the first peak season with the roundabout complete.

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4TH ST.

Longboat Key Director Public BLVD. OFof THE ARTS Works Isaac Brownman said construction is set to begin on Nov. 1, and is only estimated to last until Jan. 8.

The main purpose of the project is to tighten the rocks in the New Pass groin, not lengthen the groins. Overall, it will limit the amount of sand lost in that area.

The project will cost $489,415 and will be performed by Sea and Shoreline LLC.

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GULFSTREAM ROUNDABOUT

File images

Fearing the effects on traffic coming and leaving the barrier islands, Longboat Key leaders opposed a Sarasota proposal for Fruitville Road in 2019.

ORANGE AVE.

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s a part of two counties, Longboat Key is no stranger to intergovernmental relations.

So a joint commission meeting on Oct. 9 between the Longboat Key Town Commission and the city of Sarasota’s commission provided an opportunity for both parties to share updates on major projects and allow for questions.

The longest discussion of the agenda was about the Fruitville Road Corridor Plan proposed by the city of Sarasota.

Commissioners have brought up the plan in several recent meetings and thought it was necessary to discuss at the joint meeting.

City Engineer Nikesh Patel presented the latest update on the project. The last plan was under review from 2017 to 2019.

In 2019, the plan to reduce Fruitville Road downtown from four lanes to two, widening the sidewalk and adding a roundabout was struck down by the City Commission. But recently, Longboat Key commissioners were concerned about the possibility of the plan being revived.

A City Commission workshop is planned for November during which commissioners will discuss a new proposal for Fruitville Road.

“We remain committed to finding a viable solution,” Patel said.

Longboat Key Mayor Ken Schneier brought up what he said is the No. 1 concern for Longboat Key residents: whether a new proposal would reduce the lanes to fewer than four.

Sarasota City Manager Marlon Brown said the idea of repurposing the road from four to two lanes is off the table at the moment, but any future plans will be based on feed-

back from a future workshop.

Further discussion between commissioners showed opposition from some Longboat Key commissioners and mixed responses from city commissioners. Both sides exchanged opinions about pedestrian and cyclist safety and ease of access.

Brown mentioned that when traffic studies were conducted in 2019, plans with a roundabout and narrower lanes did function better.

City of Sarasota Vice Mayor Liz Alpert said she was the lone vote for the narrowing plans in 2019.

From her point of view, the plans make perfect sense.

“We desperately need the connectivity between the traditional downtown we have and what is becoming part of the downtown,” Alpert said, “so that people can actually get to places by walking and biking and feeling safe.”

Longboat Key Commissioner-atLarge BJ Bishop rebutted by sharing her opinion that not many cyclists she knows would ever cycle on Fruitville.

Whatever the next steps are, most felt this would be a topic for much further discussion.

“Tread carefully, because once you lose it, it’s very hard to get it back,” Bishop said.

Other agenda topics included:

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CENTRAL

Commissioners discussed Fruitville Road lane reductions and other infrastructure topics in a joint Sarasota-Longboat Key meeting.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

3

Trickle-down

EFFECTS

Area scientists are hopeful that the bay’s water quality will continue to improve but warn against slowing efforts.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

S

arasota Bay’s water quality is the best it’s been in eight years.

That’s what Executive Director of the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program Dave Tomasko said in his most recent director’s note.

But while it may be a good time to reflect on the positives, it’s not time to take a break.

“We can’t let the water quality slip away again,” Tomasko said.

He explained that in a recent meeting with colleagues at the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, he was told that FDEP would be releasing its “Draft Impaired Waters List” and “Draft De-List List.”

The lists summarize bodies of water that are considered out of compliance with water quality standards, and conversely those that are improving so much that they can be taken off the list.

From the conversation, he learned that Sarasota Bay, Roberts Bay, Little Sarasota Bay and Blackburn Bay will all be delisted for nutrient pollution.

Simply put, the algae in Sarasota Bay has decreased so much that the water meets the standards to be considered “good quality.”

“If you go out in the bay, you can tell the difference compared to where we were a few years ago,” Tomasko said.

SCIENCE TALK

The main nutrient in question is chlorophyll-a.

A higher amount of chlorophyll-a in the water is an indicator of more algae in the water. According to ThermoFisher Scientific, the cleanest waters have less than 5 micrograms per liter of chlorophyll-a.

Chlorophyll is the molecule found in all plants that allows the organisms to absorb sunlight and photosynthesis.

Nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus feed the algae.

If you want your lawn to be greener, you add nitrogen and phosphorus, Tomasko said. Likewise, you wanted the bay to be more green than blue — meaning more algae than clear water — you would add more nitrogen and phosphorus.

The first part of that analogy is part of the problem: Fertilizers containing nitrogen and phosphorus are common culprits of runoff issues.

More algae is like putting a blanket on your front lawn, Tomasko said in another analogy. The blanket suffocates the vegetation by preventing sunlight from reaching what lies below it.

Which is precisely what algae overgrowth does to seagrasses.

Seagrasses are important bases for ecosystems, providing food sources for fish, crabs, manatees and sea turtles.

Two of the most common sea-

grasses found around Florida, turtle grass and manatee grass, are named after the animals that consume the species as a main food source.

Tomasko said he’s already seeing these important seafloor forests recovering.

Between 2014 and 2018, Tomasko said the lower part of Sarasota Bay lost about 30% of its seagrass coverage. This was mostly related to a couple of wet years and problems with overwhelmed wastewater treatment facilities.

The biggest decline in recent years, according to Tomasko, occurred between 2018 and 2020 in the upper part of the bay, just southeast of Sister Keys. About 2,000 acres were lost.

This is believed to be associated with the red tide event that began in 2017 and had major impacts on the bay’s water quality.

“It’s the rerestoration,” Tomasko said. “We already did it once, and then we let it slip away, and now we’re trying to get it back again.”

— Dave Tomasko Executive Director of the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program

Tomasko and colleagues with SBEP have been tracking that area for the last couple years, and have been seeing the potential for recovery.

Around mid-September, Tomasko said the amount of seagrass was impressive. They found an abundance all over the place.

Although aerial data of seagrass coverage won’t be taken for another year, Tomasko is hopeful.

“We think it’s going to be a huge increase, maybe multiple hundreds of acres,” he said. “It was one of my best days out in the field.”

Aaron Zimmerman works with water quality for Sarasota County, where he’s been a part of the research since 2021.

Overall, he agrees with Tomasko’s observations. He’s also seen good trends for seagrass and a decreased abundance of macroalgae.

Zimmerman said what’s important about their research is that while aerial images take good readings of overall seagrass coverage, the work he does with his team is able to provide a more detailed look.

This includes seagrass coverage by species, the three most common ones being shoal, manatee and turtle grass.

Zimmerman said he can say firsthand from being on the water that it seemed clearer in terms of quality, most likely meaning chlorophyll levels are going down. This means algae production is also decreasing.

So all in all, reducing the amount

of nutrients getting into the water will decrease the amount of algae in the water, which in turn will help water quality and allow seagrasses to recover.

BIG-TICKET FIXES, BIG PAYOFF

Tomasko and scientists with Sarasota County agree that the most impactful reasons behind this good news are the improvements on the larger scale: upgraded stormwater and wastewater infrastructure.

A few examples Tomasko pointed out in his director’s note include the Bee Ridge Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrades of over $250 million, the county’s wastewater treatment plant improvements, the Celery Fields project and ongoing stormwater retrofit projects at the Bobby Jones Golf Course.

Heather Bryen has been with the county stormwater and water quality team since 2011 and has seen a lot of improvement projects big and small.

“They’re very committed to putting their money where their mouth is and getting the job done,” Bryen said.

Tomasko said the hundreds of millions of dollars that local governments are spending on wastewater and stormwater improvements are paying off by reducing the inflow of nutrients.

CAN’T STOP, WON’T STOP

Though good news is worth celebrating, Tomasko urged it’s not time to say it’s good enough — this area has already made that mistake once before.

This time, Tomasko hopes bay residents have learned lessons from the past.

“It’s the rerestoration,” Tomasko said. “We already did it once, and then we let it slip away, and now we’re trying to get it back again.”

In the mid-’90s, Tomasko said a similar increase in water quality occurred. But, locals let that slip away due to the pressure of massive population growth, aging infrastructure, wetter weather and warming waters.

Now local officials are ensuring that everyone can do their part.

Mollie Holland is the coordinator

Photos by Carter Weinhofer

Seagrasses are important foundations for many ecosystem food webs because they are the primary food source for animals such as manatees.

of a county program called NEST, which stands for Neighborhood Environmental Stewardship Team.

In her words, NEST takes the large-scale problems and boils them down to the community level to show residents what they can do to be a part of the solution.

She’s even helped write a book, “Healthy Ponds Guide,” that is a comprehensive guide to being a water-conscious citizen.

Some things are easier to implement.

One of the most important ways people can help is to not be a part of the problem: by not overfertilizing lawns, not blowing grass clippings into the bay or drainage and to pick up after dogs.

By taking those suggestions into consideration, people can help prevent nutrients, like nitrogen and phosphorus, from entering the water system.

And some of these solutions are actually money savers, Holland said.

Using less fertilizer is less expensive.

But when certain projects come with increased costs, Holland said it’s also her group’s job to educate people about the importance of these improvements.

“Sometimes you have to break

a few eggs to make an omelet and spend some money and invest in our future and our climate here,” Holland said.

Most residents want to be part of the solution, she said, because the water and the environment are one of the state’s biggest draws.

“When you ask folks why they come here, yes, it’s the sunshine and the warm weather,” Holland said.

“But nine chances out of 10 when you ask somebody why they’re here it’s because of the environment.”

Tomasko’s recent meeting with FDEP colleagues served another purpose — to set even higher standards for the bay’s water quality.

Sarasota Bay Estuary Program will be pursuing a reasonable assurance plan for Sarasota Bay, in collaboration with local governments, FDEP and the EPA. The reasonable assurance plan, Tomasko said, will propose stricter water quality standards.

Higher standards aren’t meant to set the bay up for failure though, he said. It’s to ensure that the millions of dollars going into stormwater and wastewater projects aren’t put to waste — and to make sure the water quality doesn’t decline again.

AMOUNT OF ALGAE IN THE WATER Annual averages for chlorophyll-a for each of four waterbodies during the years 2015 to 2022, based on independent analyses done by Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The units along the y-axis represent measurements of mass/ volume in micrograms per liter in the samples taken.

16 14 12 10 8 6 4 2 0 2014

2015

Sarasota Bay

2016

2017

Roberts Bay

2018

2019

2020

Little Sarasota Bay

2021

2022

Blackburn Bay

2023

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

Reviews are in on Tipton The town manager’s job performance received high marks from Longboat Key commissioners.

COMMISSIONER COMMENTARY

relatively smooth from my perspective. I’ve gotten to know the team and the issues well and what they need.

I’ve also come from a large organization to a smaller organization, and I think that helps. If you were doing the opposite, it’s harder.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

T

he midyear review. It’s a workplace occurrence that some dread, but Town Manager Howard Tipton passed his with good feedback.

At the Oct. 2 Town Commission meeting, commissioners were asked to give their feedback on Tipton’s performance thus far. Tipton is nearly nine months into his first contract year as Longboat Key’s town manager.

After the commissioners’ public reviews, which were positive across the board, Commissioner-at-Large BJ Bishop suggested the idea of a raise.

Without much deliberation aside from ensuring it was already in the budget, the mayor and commission approved a 3% raise for Tipton starting with his second contract year on Jan. 30, 2024.

The Observer sat down with Tipton after the review to discuss his thoughts about the job so far and what the near future may hold.

Nine months in, how are you feeling about things so far?

I think living on the island has really helped because I’m here on the weekends, I’m here after hours and I think that allows me to get to know some of the issues a little bit better and maybe a little bit faster. … I think the transition has been

What has been the most challenging obstacle you’ve faced and how did you see it through?

Aside from pickleball … I think it was the salary issues originally. We couldn’t hire people and we were losing people, and just being able to get our arms around that pretty quickly. And then being able to implement a solution midyear. I give the commission all the credit in the world for stepping up and supporting that recommendation. That was really critical for us.

As the season approaches, what’s the thing you’re most looking forward to?

Cooler weather. I think it’s fun when the town is full, you know other than the traffic. It’s just nice to see everybody out and more people are biking and walking. So there’s just so much more social interaction and energy on the island. The island just kind of comes to life.

I’m cautiously optimistic about the traffic. (Last year) we still had the roundabouts in downtown Sarasota that were under construction. And so I’m cautiously optimistic that it will be slightly better.

What’s something specific that you have learned about Longboat that you hadn’t really thought about before?

Being as close as I am to the citizens.

In larger organizations, you have

Photo by Lori Sax

Town Manager Howard Tipton is looking forward to welcoming people back this season.

layers of people between you and everybody. So when you do interact, it’s certainly not every day. Coming here, you’re it, so people just walk in. That’s been kind of fun actually.

I guess I expected it but I didn’t know what it would be like. Residents here are engaged, they’re thoughtful, and they give very reasoned ideas and opinions, which is helpful.

So far, what has been the thing that you are the most proud of?

The thing I’m the most proud about is the team was able to transition from (Tom Harmer), who was a highly respected manager and leader. (The team) was able to turn around and start working with me

immediately. We really didn’t miss a beat.

I give all the credit to them for their flexibility, because we all have different styles and approaches and ways that we communicate, and I’m still a work in progress on my communications. But I never felt like we were missing something. It really is a strong team for a small team. Pound for pound, we’re as strong as any organization I’ve ever worked for.

Their ability to shift and pivot and work with me without blinking has just been amazing. I’m very grateful for that.

LONGBOAT

At the Oct. 2 meeting, commissioners shared their thoughts about Tipton’s job performance thus far.

Mayor Ken Schneier reflected on how he thought the transition from Tom Harmer to Tipton was “incredibly smooth.”

“It’s very hard to step into the shoes of people who’ve been so respected by the commission, by the staff and by the town’s people,” Schneier said.

“I think that Tip has accomplished that.”

Vice Mayor Mike Haycock said he appreciated how Tipton was able to take a look at what could be done to make the town even better, to exceed the high standards to which Harmer kept the town.

“Tip appears to be very focused on the staff and their performance, and what it takes to have them produce at the highest levels,” Haycock said.

“And I’ve been very impressed with that.”

Also new to the town government, District 1 Commissioner Gary Coffin felt aligned with Tipton’s views on increasing the investment in town employees. Coffin thought this was one of the biggest issues the town was facing.

“I’m just going to cut it short and say that I think Tip is good for Longboat Key,” Coffin said.

District 2 Commissioner Penny Gold spoke highly of Tipton’s fairness and ability to communicate well. Another major part of the job is intergovernmental relations, which she noted will be extremely important going forward.

She thinks Tipton is already building strong relationships with neighboring governments, and hopes to see that continue in the future.

“Overall, I think we’re on our way to the Sterling Award, and I appreciate that you’re trying to get us there,” Gold said.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

OTHER AWARDS SERVICE AWARDS 20 years: Lt. Tim Haas 15 years: Firefighter Paramedic Jay Gosnell 10 years: Firefighter Paramedic Tirso Guerrero; Firefighter Paramedic Chase Opela 5 years: Asst. Chief Jane Herrin; Firefighter Paramedic Trey Bowlin

Photos by Carter Weinhofer

Chief Paul Dezzi (far right) presented the Phoenix Award to a crew that successfully resuscitated an unconscious patient using CPR. From left to right: Firefighter Paramedic Trey Bowlin, Firefighter Paramedic Andre Hoefer, Firefighter Paramedic Chase Bullock and Lt. Jose Rivera.

Honors for excellence Longboat Fire Rescue’s annual awards honor distinguished crew and community members.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

T

he Medal of Honor is rarely given out by the Longboat Key Fire Rescue Department.

But on Oct. 4, as part of the department’s Annual Awards Ceremony, the honor was bestowed upon resident Charles Shreve.

Back in May, Shreve was at the marina where he has worked for 10 years. A part of the job is to do routine patrols on golf carts, and one day he noticed an odd smell.

He walked down the dock to investigate and then he saw it: smoke.

Smoke was billowing from a boat, and he knew he had to act. He disconnected the power and checked the boat to make sure there was no one on board, which was confirmed by a neighboring captain.

Shreve grabbed a fire extinguisher and did the best he could before the

Fire Rescue Department arrived on scene. He said the crew got there quickly.

“It wasn’t anything complicated,” Shreve said. “I did what I had to do.”

But Longboat Key Fire Rescue Chief Paul Dezzi commended him for his actions.

“Because of his bravery and quick actions, he prevented this fire from spreading to the other boats that were right next to that other vessel,” Dezzi said.

AWARDS ALL AROUND

The ceremony started with the “pinning of the badge,” in which Dezzi presented badges to two new firefighter paramedics and one crew member who was being promoted.

Jentzen Barton was officially promoted to the position of assistant chief.

Both firefighter paramedics Richard Traugott and Andre Hoefer were awarded their badges after complet-

David Oliger was honored as Chief Paul Dezzi’s Employee of the Year.

ing all the initial fire and emergency medical services training. Now, the two are able to operate in the field without a preceptor, or trainer.

As is customary, family members

LETTER OF COMMENDATION ■ Town Clerk Trish Shinkle ■ Firefighter Lt. Brandon Desch ■ Paramedic Ron Franklin ■ Public Information Officer Tina Adams ■ Asst. Chief Mike Regnier MEDAL OF MERIT ■ Firefighter Paramedic Brent Kruse UNIT CITATION ■ Asst. Chief Mike Regnier ■ Lt. Tim Haas ■ Firefighter Paramedic Jason Berzowski ■ Firefighter Paramedic Jamison Urch ■ Firefighter Paramedic Richard Traugott

were there to pin the badge on the firefighter paramedic.

Another high honor awarded was the Phoenix Award, which is given to a team of firefighter paramedics that save a life.

The award is recognized as a “symbol of excellence,” Dezzi said.

The name references the mythical bird that rises from the ashes.

Four crew members responded to a call in February about an unconscious person. Upon arrival, the crew found a patient on the sidewalk, with a bystander already performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Dezzi said because of the team’s quick response and consistent communication, they were able to resuscitate the patient and transport him to Sarasota Memorial Hospital.

“You guys did one heck of a job,” Dezzi said. “If it wasn’t for what you guys did, he would not be here.”

He was later discharged with no

neurological deficits.

Lt. Jose Rivera, Firefighter Paramedic Tirso Guerrero, Firefighter Paramedic Chase Bullock, Firefighter Paramedic Andre Hoefer and Firefighter Paramedic Trey Bowlin, along with Dezzi, made up the lifesaving team.

Then, Dezzi presented the Fire Chief’s Award. This year, he honored Lori Daubert for her behind-thescenes work at the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch office.

“She is one of those kinds of people that is just a dynamite employee,” Dezzi said. “I can’t say enough about her.”

BEST OF THE YEAR

Next up for recognition at the ceremony was the Employee of the Year: David Oliger.

Oliger joined Longboat Key in 2017, and Dezzi said he’s been a leader since day one.

He attended special training on high-rise rescue and presented some insights back to the crew, and this past year he completed requirements for acting officer. And on top of that, he received his inspection certification to join the inspection team.

“He is well respected by all members of this department,” Dezzi said.

“He cares about this job, which is important, and he also cares about the people he works with.”

For Oliger, helping people is what the job is all about.

“Every time we get to 911 (calls) and somebody’s having a bad day, I enjoy being the first one to be able to help them through that and have a bad situation become not so bad,” Oliger said.

To end the ceremony, Dezzi presented one more award. Instead of a plaque or certificate, he presented Town Manager Howard Tipton with a custom firefighter helmet.

“He has come in and has changed a lot of things here for us, and we appreciate that,” Dezzi said. “All of us appreciate that, not just the fire department.”

Mayor Ken Schneier ended the ceremony by recognizing the one person who he said hadn’t been recognized yet, the person responsible for the fire department and its high citizen approval rating: Dezzi.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

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Homes for rent for less than six months will now be required to register as rentals with the town of Longboat Key.

Rental registry takes effect The new program ­applies to residentially zoned ­properties that are rented to vacationers.

Pending

FOR MORE

For more information or to register a property, contact the Planning, Zoning and Building Department at ­CodeEnforcement@ LongboatKey.org or 941-3161966.

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L

ongboat Key residents who wish to rent their properties short term now need to register through the town’s Residential Rental Registry.

The program, which started on Oct. 1, was unanimously approved by the Town Commission in March.

The registry is a means for the town to have a more succinct list of properties being rented out for less than six months, including rentals through online platforms, such as Airbnb and Vrbo.

This doesn’t change the town’s existing ordinance that prohibits rentals shorter than 30 days.

Planning, Zoning and Building Director Allen Parsons said shortterm rental violations have been a consistent issue for the town, with online rentals being one of the key reasons.

“This program will allow for the town to have a good handle on properties being rented,” he said.

Previously, the town only required a business tax receipt, but residents who rent their properties now need to also apply for the registry.

There are two categories of properties that need to apply: properties zoned residential that rent privately and tourism properties that are zoned residential.

The first category would be homes in which the owners independently list the rentals, like on online platforms. For those properties, it’s a $200 fee for the initial certificate and

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then a $150 renewal fee.

The second category contains only about 30 properties, according to Parsons — the ones that are tourism properties zoned as residential units. These would be properties such as The Diplomat Beach Resort and Casa del Mar. The registration fee for those properties is $50 and $20 for renewal.

The limited number of properties that are zoned as tourism units do not need to register.

Aside from giving the town a complete list of rental properties, the certificate also serves a liability function.

Each property must go through life safety inspections, looking over safe ways to exit the property, the presence of smoke detectors and having a proper address for emergency services to be able to respond.

Once approved, the certificate gives property owners a registration number, which needs to be displayed on the online listing, Parsons said.

Approved properties will also be required to communicate aspects such as town ordinances with renters. Parsons said this will hopefully mitigate issues with neighboring residents.

As of Oct. 4, the Planning, Zoning and Building Department received 700 applications. Parsons expects around 1,000 properties total in the registry.

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

OPINION / OUR VIEW

LONGBOAT

Deadly cost of appeasing Because of Presidents Obama and Biden’s evasion of the facts — e.g. Putin’s stated objective to retake Ukraine and Iran’s objective to destroy Israel — we now have what we have: death, destruction and war.

MATT WALSH

The truly and deliberately evil men are a very small minority; it is the appeaser who unleashes them on mankind.

— Ayn Rand

A

yn Rand had it right. Look at the recent record: Obama: ISIS, RussiaCrimea Trump: No wars Biden: Ukraine, Hamas-Iran Obama, Biden: Appeasers. Delusional.

Almost a decade ago, in October 2014, when the United States and Iraq were in the throes of trying to stop the barbaric, savage ISIS caliphate from taking over Iraq and beyond, Craig Biddle, founder and editor of The Objectivist Standard, a periodical that explains the world according to Rand’s Objectivist philosophy, penned a commentary on the five primary causes of war and five causes of peace.

Relevant then, Biddle’s causes of war and peace are just as relevant today as Israel undertakes its retaliation against Hamas.

Causes of War: ■ Statism ■ Collectivism ■ Altruism ■ Mysticism ■ Evasion Causes of Peace: ■ Capitalism ■ Individualism ■ Egoism ■ Rationality ■ Honesty With our chief appeaser in the White House today, Evasion is paramount.

Wrote Biddle: “The most fundamental psychological cause of war is Evasion — the refusal to face relevant facts, the act of pretending that reality is other than it is. “[I]n the 1930s, European leaders evaded the explicitly stated intentions and clear advances of the Nazis. Rather than eliminate these avowedly racist murderers who openly sought world domination when the Europeans easily could have, they permitted the Nazis to strengthen and expand for years on end, thereby eventually necessitating a massive war to end the nightmare.

“Similarly, today, U.S. leaders evade the explicitly stated aims and clear advances of the Islamic regimes that sponsor terrorism …

“U.S. leaders pretend that ‘Islam means peace,’ when in fact it means submission … They pretend that we can fruitfully negotiate with the Iranian regime, whose ultimate goal — as stated in its written constitution — is to force everyone on the planet to submit to Allah, and whose leaders call regularly for ‘Death to America’” … and the annihilation of Israel and the Jews.

“When a nation evades such facts about its enemies, that nation eventually will either fight a larger and more costly war than it would have had to fight if it had faced reality from the beginning — or submit to its enemies.

“It is either-or.”

In contrast to Evasion as a cause of war, Honesty is a cause of peace.

Wrote Biddle: “The most fundamental psychological cause of peace is Honesty: the refusal to pretend that facts are other than they are. “[W]hen an enemy of America quotes his religious scripture to the effect that his ‘God’ commands him to convert or kill unbelievers; when that same enemy founds a nation with a constitution stating that it intends to make everyone on the planet submit to his God; when that same enemy issues textbooks to its grade-school students ‘teaching’ them that to be noble they must engage in jihad and kill infidels; when that same enemy materially and spiritually sponsors terrorist groups that murder many thousands of Americans [and now Israelis] in the name of this godly mission; when that same enemy pursues nuclear weapons while chanting ‘Death to America’ and on and on, honesty requires that Americans and their leaders acknowledge this enemy as an enemy that must be eliminated unequivocally and immediately.

“For the United States instead to ‘negotiate’ with the leaders of the enemy regimes and to sit with them at the U.N. and thus treat them as deserving of anything other than torture (for information) and death (for good riddance) is an act of dishonesty. It is an act of pretending that reality is other than it is.

“Insofar as a country and its leaders are honest about who their enemies are, what motivates them and what must be done to eliminate them, the country will be able to employ its resources in the best way possible toward achieving and maintaining peace.

“Insofar as a country and its leaders pretend that the facts of the matter are other than they are, they will pay the price for their evasions.

Reality cannot be fooled.”

As Rand and Biddle have so aptly explained, Ukraine and Israel are under siege in large part because of our appeasing presidents and their ignorance of evasion versus honesty.

For this, the world is paying a costly, deadly price.

(For detailed explanations of Biddle’s causes of war and peace, go to: theobjectivestandard. com/2014/10/causes-war-peace/)

“If we are to build a better world, we must remember that the guiding principle is this — a policy of freedom for the individual is the only truly progressive policy.”

Friedrich Hayek

“Road to Serfdom,” 1944 President and Publisher / Emily Walsh, EWalsh@YourObserver.com Executive Editor and COO / Kat Wingert, KWingert@YourObserver.com Managing Editor / James Peter, JPeter@YourObserver.com Staff Writers / Petra Rivera, PRivera@ YourObserver.com; Carter Weinhofer, CWeinhofer@YourObserver.com Digital & Engagement Editor / Kaelyn Adix, KAdix@YourObserver.com Copy Editor / Gina Reynolds Haskins, GRHaskins@YourObserver.com Senior Editorial Designer / Melissa Leduc, MLeduc@YourObserver.com Editorial Designer / Luke Reasoner, LReasoner@YourObserver.com A+E Editor / Monica Roman Gagnier, MGagnier@YourObserver.com

Image courtesy of Getty Images

Retaliation on Gaza City Monday.

Hamas attacks gave Israel the right to obliterate

I

nevitably, as Israel retaliates to the Hamas-Hezbollah-Iranian attacks, there will be U.S. and world politicians and TV media windbags demanding that Israel stop the destruction of Gaza and Lebanon; stop the killing of innocent Palestinians; and that Israel submit to a cease-fire and peace settlement.

You watch. In the coming days there will be world outrage from the anti-Semitic abettors over Israel’s retaliation to the sadistic, Satanic attacks of the Hamas-HezbollahIranian terrorists.

But such outrage will be wrong.

Totally, completely, indisputably wrong.

Israel is not responsible for any of the deaths of Hamas or Hezbollah militants, of the Hamas or Hezbollah sympathizers or of the Palestinian or Arab civilians in Gaza or Lebanon.

Every death in Gaza or Lebanon is on the hands of the terrorist leaders. Not Israel.

When the terrorists fired their first rockets and gunshots in Israel last weekend, the terrorist leaders had made a conscious decision.

They were proclaiming they care far more about their irrational mysticism and fanaticism in “Allah” and far more about their delusions of victimhood (caused by their statist, authoritarian regimes) than they care about the lives and well-being of their own families, neighbors, women, elderly and children.

They made the conscious decision they are willing to and OK with bringing death upon their innocent countrymen and citizens.

In its self-defense, then, Israel has the moral right to defend itself and destroy its aggressors.

Indeed, to be victorious in war and secure its freedom from annihilation and becoming slaves of its enemies, Israel has the right to use enough force to break the will of its enemies and destroy its enemies’ war machinery and infrastructure.

And this, inevitably, leads to and

Courtesy image

necessitates the killing of civilians.

To obtain victory against an aggressor, the free nation often must cripple production of weapons, and in the process that takes the lives of civilians. “This is what the U.S. did in World War II when it dropped fire bombs on Dresden and Hamburg and atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki,” wrote Onkar Ghate at the Ayn Rand Institute in a commentary dubbed “Innocents at War?” “These bombings were moral acts. The destruction of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, for instance, precipitated Japan’s surrender and so achieved victory with no further U.S. casualties.

“In that context, to sacrifice the lives of hundreds of thousands of U.S. soldiers in a ground attack on Japan would have been morally monstrous.”

Hamas and Hezbollah’s bombings are immoral acts. Israel has every right to obliterate its enemies, regardless of the collateral damage.

It has the moral right and responsibility to put its people’s lives ahead of any others.

When you hear outrage pointed at Israel, remember where the true evil lies.

Director of Advertising / Jill Raleigh, JRaleigh@YourObserver.com Sales Manager / Penny Nowicki, PNowicki@YourObserver.com Regional Digital Director / Kathleen O’Hara, KOHara@YourObserver.com Senior Advertising Executive / Laura Ritter, LRitter@YourObserver.com Advertising Executives / Richeal Bair, RBair@YourObserver.com; Jennifer Kane, JKane@YourObserver.com; Honesty Mantkowski, HMantkowski@YourObserver. com; Toni Perren, TPerren@YourObserver. com; Brenda White, BWhite@ YourObserver.com Classified Advertising Sales Executive / Lexi Huelsman, LHuelsman@ YourObserver.com Sales Operations Manager / Susan Leedom, SLeedom@YourObserver.com Sales Coordinator / Account Manager Lori Downey, LDowney@YourObserver.com Advertising/Marketing Coordinator / Caitlin Ellis, CEllis@YourObserver.com Digital Fulfillment Specialist / Emma B. Jolly, EJolly@YourObserver.com Tributes Coordinator / Kristen Boothroyd, Tributes@YourObserver.com Director of Marketing / Robin Lankton, RLankton@YourObserver.com Marketing Specialist / Melanie Melone, MMelone@YourObserver.com Director of Creative Services / Caleb Stanton, CStanton@YourObserver.com Creative Services Administrator / Marjorie Holloway, MHolloway@ YourObserver.com Advertising Graphic Designers / Luis Trujillo, Taylor Poe, Louise Martin, Shawna Polana Digital Developer / Jason Camillo, JCamillo@YourObserver.com Information Technology Manager / Homer Gallego, HGallego@YourObserver. com Chief Financial Officer / Laura Strickland, LStrickland@YourObserver.com Controller / Rafael Labrin, RLabrin@ YourObserver.com Office and Accounting Coordinator / Donna Condon, DCondon@ YourObserver.com

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

9

Library to pop up on the Key The Sarasota County mobile library will be making regular stops on Longboat Key. PETRA RIVERA

LEARN MORE

STAFF WRITER

To find out when the Pop-Up Library will be at a community event or to request a visit to another location, visit: SCGov.net/Government/Libraries/Services-And-Policies/ Pop-Up-Library

S

arasota County’s mobile library will be popping up soon in Longboat Key as the island becomes a regular stop on the new Pop-Up Library’s route.

Although the Pop-Up Library has only been on the road for about a month, the idea for the mobile library was formed about two years ago during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It’s throughout Sarasota County, we know that we have neighborhoods where maybe it’s inconvenient to reach a physical library or maybe we have high numbers of working families where their hours just don’t mesh with the library’s open hours,” said Renee Di Pilato, director of Sarasota County Libraries and Historical

Resources.

Di Pilato said it took roughly two years to get the needed funding. The library was able to raise $125,000 for the vehicle thanks to the Library Foundation for Sarasota County and a grant from the William G. and Marie Selby Foundation. With Sarasota County providing extra staff, the dream of a mobile library became a reality.

Sa

s g iv n

Photo by James Peter

Alyssa Rockey, outreach services supervisor, and Katie Dow, manager of programs and partnerships, stand in front of the Pop-Up Library.

The mobile library can carry “about eight full carts of books,” said Di Pilato. “And not just books, but all kinds of library collections that we can accommodate.”

The mobile library will also bring library programs to communities that usually don’t have access to them, including story time for children, a hotspot to connect to the internet, technology tutorials, library cards and other traditional library services.

Di Pilato said the Pop-Up Library will try to curate what it brings to the demographics of each area it visits.

It will be as accessible as possible by also being available at hospitals, community centers and at events with community partners.

“People are so excited about the pop-up,” said Di Pilato. “We’re getting a lot of requests from different groups out in the community to have the pop-up come to their events. It’s been very well received because it’s a

d o ? o y g a n G i p r pric e v y OG o o r S c a r y d S a v i n g s r e ! t y a eaS adveaidn g s SScca rSycaryGWhWhy oGaotoeorddHOverpay?

Syaouv i n g s Courtesy image

Sarasota County Library hosted an open house for its new Pop-Up Library.

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“People are so ­excited about the pop-up. We’re getting a lot of requests from ­different groups out in the community to have the pop-up come to their events.”

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matter of convenience. People might be out in a park or a shopping center, and they’re able to access the library via this vehicle, whereas before it would be an extra trip to a library.

It’s really nice for us to get to those people that we normally wouldn’t be able to see in our libraries.”

The Pop-Up Library will be on Longboat Key the first and third Tuesdays of every month from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Town Hall starting Nov. 7. The Pop-Up Library will also be at the Longboat Key Veterans Day celebration on Nov. 11.

“Library services are so valuable, they’re a way to keep people learning,” said Di Pilato. “We provide enriching content, so this pop-up is there to make it very convenient and easy for people to access those resources. I just think it provides a quality of life to the area that makes this community such a great place to live.”

www.HarrysKitchen.com • 5600 Gulf of Mexico Drive • 941-383-0777

OCTOBER EVENTS A Taste of Freedom Village Cooking Demonstration Thursday, Oct. 12 | 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Freedom Village is a premier Life Care senior living community that features beautiful living accommodations and a full range of health care services at our scenic 34-acre campus located in West Bradenton.

Our community provides financial security and peace of mind in a safe, friendly, and comfortable environment where daily living is stress-free, and friendships come easily.

Simply stated, we take care of our residents for life.

If you, or someone you know, would benefit from senior living in our community, please join us for a free luncheon to learn more. RSVPs are required by calling 941-231-7434.

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Friendship Lunch Table for Widows, Widowers, Singles Tuesday, Oct. 24 | 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Director’s Roundtable: Benefits of Worry-free Living at our Life Care Community Thursday, Oct. 26 | 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

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Senior Solutions: How Freedom Village Helps Seniors Overcome Common Issues Thursday, Oct. 19 | 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

COPS CORNER

FRIDAY, SEPT. 29

DRUNK AND DISORDERLY 11:14 p.m., 7100 block of Joy Street Citizen Dispute: A report of a citizen dispute prompted Longboat Key police to respond. On the scene, an officer found two men in the driveway of a residence. One of the men was said to be intoxicated and sitting in his vehicle, while the other was urging him not to drive. Eventually, the keys were handed over, and both men parted ways.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 30

MYSTERY BOX 10:06 a.m., 600 block of Longview Drive Citizen Assist: An officer responded to a resident’s complaint that there was a box floating in the canal near her home. When police arrived, they were able to locate the black box but couldn’t get it out of the water. No marine patrol unit was available, but one of the marine patrol officers was notified of the complaint.

WRONG DEPARTMENT 9:06 p.m., 4400 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Citizen Assist: Longboat Key Police Department was dispatched to respond to a residential lockout. The responding officer tried to contact the caller to let the caller know that law enforcement does not respond to lockouts. But the phone number provided was for a store on Bay Isles Parkway. When the officer arrived at the residence, the owner provided a driver’s license that matched the address. He explained that he had stepped out of the building for a moment, and when he tried to get back in he realized he did not have his key fob nor a cellphone to contact anyone. The officer helped him contact a homeowners association representative.

SUNDAY, OCT. 1

CALL CANCELED 4:05 p.m., 200 block of Sands Point Road Citizen Assist: An officer responded to a call about a possible theft. The caller said she left her phone in the lobby and when she returned, it was gone. But right before the officer arrived, dispatch notified the officer that the caller had found her phone.

TUESDAY, OCT. 3

PERMISSION GRANTED 4:42 p.m., 600 block of Putter Lane Suspicious Person: A man walking around taking pictures was reported as a suspicious person, prompting Longboat Key police to respond. The responding officer made contact with the man, who claimed to be hired for landscaping. No warrants were found on the photographer, and the complainant was notified that the photographer had permission.

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 4

LATE-NIGHT LIFT 11:54 p.m., 6800 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Suspicious Person: On patrol, an officer noticed a man sitting on a bench outside of a business. The officer approached the man, who said he was on vacation and walked to the local gym. But gym access didn’t start until midnight, and he couldn’t yet get in. He was just sitting on the bench waiting to work out.

Photo by Carter Weinhofer

Longboat Key is making efforts to inform car-hauling companies about the no tolerance policy for parking along Gulf of Mexico Drive.

Changing of the plates Longboat Key continues no tolerance policy for unloading car haulers on Gulf of Mexico Drive.

THURSDAY, OCT. 5

MYSTERY BOX REDUX 4 p.m., Buttonwood Harbor Citizen Assist: While on marine patrol, officers were able to locate the black box from a week prior stuck in the mangroves. The officers were able to remove the box and left it on a nearby dock for Public Works to pick up.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

Car haulers beware: Longboat Key officials are cracking down on illegally parked trailers.

As more residents return to the barrier island for the season, town officials are aware that means trailers carrying out-of-state cars will also start arriving.

Or as Town Manager Howard Tipton put it, the changing of the “leaves” is on the way, but instead of leaves it’s license plates.

Town commissioners brought up the issue at the Oct. 2 regular meeting, though Assistant to the Town Manager Susan Phillips had already begun sending out notices about the regulations.

Car haulers are not allowed to park on Gulf of Mexico Drive nor in the right of way.

“We know it’s more convenient, but it’s not safe,” Tipton said.

The large trailers block the view of other drivers, and can cause traffic hazards due to other drivers and pedestrians not being able to see around them.

Longboat Key Chief of Police George Turner is aware of how seri-

TUESDAY, OCT. 3

A FEW MINUTES EARLY 7:55 a.m., 7000 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Noise Complaints: While on patrol, an officer noticed loud construction that was going on just shy of 8 a.m. The worker was hammering and throwing items in a dumpster from the second story, which caused the noise, according to the police report. The officer approached the worker, who said he was unaware of the ordinance and had not been warned prior. All checked out when the officer verified the worker had not been given a prior warning, so this encounter ended in a verbal warning.

VOLUNTEER

ous the issue can be. He said years ago, before his time with the department, fatal accidents occurred that were caused by car haulers blocking the road.

To mitigate the impacts these carriers are expected to have, the town created a designated spot for residents to have the cars unloaded.

The designated public location for car haulers to deliver vehicles is at 595 Bay Isles Road, across from Mediterranean Plaza.

But in this designated area, the car haulers still cannot block any driveways or park in a no-parking zone.

If they do, they run the risk of a $75 fine.

Longboat Key is handling the issue with a no tolerance policy. If the police department responds to any calls about the haulers on GMD, it could result in a $116 fine.

But Turner said the department is trying its best to be proactive.

That means whenever Turner or his officers see a car-hauling truck on the island, they are stopping them and informing them of the rules.

Turner recently had an informational pamphlet posted to the town’s website, which will also be given to all car-hauling companies the department sees on the island.

Residents who live along private roads must check with homeowners associations to verify safe and legal areas for car delivery. For more information, call the town at 941316-1999.

Blessing of the Animals

HERE

CENTERED ON OUR STUDENTS

OPEN TO PEOPLE AND PETS OF ALL FAITHS

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Join us for this joyous interfaith celebration of God’s creatures!

SCF Foundation Events

Assist with SCF Foundation events through set up, clean up, registration, parking, guiding, scholarship application reading, and more.

Come celebrate and give thanks to God for the creatures that bring us so much joy and companionship. All families & their furry, feathery, fluffy, slithery, and spikey friends of all shapes and sizes are welcome to join us for a special blessing.

SCF Performing Arts and Athletic Events

Serve as an usher, ticket taker, concession stand worker, stage crew member, theatre set striker, and more.

SCF Health Care Services

All animals must be safely secured in cages or on leashes.

Tutoring and Mentoring

Rise Up Cafe, a Sarasota ice cream parlor that offers training to developmentally delayed adults entering the work force, will be joining us with their specialty dog treats on hand for purchase.

Be a simulated patient for future health care providers in the areas of dental hygiene, radiography, physical therapy, and nursing.

Increase student success through academic tutoring, mentoring, providing subject matter expertise, interview coaching, career counseling, and more.

Contact Madeline Mangas, Community Outreach Coordinator

E BET H

AE

PL

M

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941-752-5336 MangasM@SCF.edu | scf-foundation.org/volunteer

When: Sun., October 22, 2023 Time: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Where: Front entrance of Temple Beth Israel. Free parking in both lots: 563/567 Bay Isles Rd., Longboat Key, FL 34228 Cost: FREE & Open to Community

Blessings will be led by Rabbi Stephen Sniderman of Temple Beth Israel, and Reverend David Marshall of All Angels Church.

A percentage of the profits will be donated to the Humane Society of Sarasota County. This event is open to the greater Community of Longboat Key.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

11

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

and online, a permanent

record of a legacy your family will always cherish.

PROVIDED BY THE OBSERVER MEDIA GROUP

Call Adella at 941-366-3468, ext. 346; tributes@yourobserver.com or ask your funeral director for assistance.

Growing in Jesus’ Name

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Submit your Loved One’s Obituary

Bob was a kind, thoughtful and brave man. He was the “Clark Kent of Superman” and will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by the many lives he touched. Bob has left a void in our world that can never be filled.

Bob was born in Peterborough, Ontario on January 18th, 1943, to Robert Charles and Ann Simmons. The Simmons family moved to Goshen, IN then later to LaGrange Park, IL. Bob graduated from the University of Illinois Champaign and later earned his Master’s in Management from Northwestern University.

Bob leaves behind the love of his life, wife Teresa, his cherished brother Jack (Karen) Simmons, his devoted daughters Suzanne Bohan, Stephanie Simmons and daughter-in-law April Simmons. His legacy will live on in his six grandchildren - Kelsey, Griffin (Becca), Megan, Trey, Jenna and Sean. “Uncle Bob” was loved by his three nephews - Drew, Dean (Annie) and Tyler (Theresa). Bob was predeceased by his parents and his son, Bobby Jr. After graduating from the

Throughout his career, Bob was a trailblazer and he was chosen to lead an elite team that changed the way healthcare products are purchased by hospitals worldwide.

University of Illinois, Bob was recruited by American Hospital Supply Corporation in 1965. He held several leadership positions in sales within the company and retired as Executive Vice President soon after Baxter acquired AHSC. Throughout his career, Bob was a trailblazer and he was chosen to lead an elite team that changed the way healthcare products are purchased by hospitals worldwide. Bob served on many healthcare company boards as well as

the Lake Forest Hospital board. He was a founding member of the Health Insights Group.

In 1999, on a blind date, Bob met his “Lois Lane” in Teresa - his wife of 23 years.

After traveling the world to attend Grand Slam tennis events, the couple purchased a condo in Longboat Key, FL and became “snowbirds” to escape the winters of Lake Forest, IL. Not long after, the couple made the paradise of Longboat Key their fulltime residence and enjoyed many visits from winter weary family and friends.

Bob quickly became involved in the LBK community and served as President of their condo board then becoming President of the Bay Isles board - an umbrella board that encompasses over 1500 condos and homes.

Thru the LBK Rotary Club, Bob helped establish and manage a Food Pantry for many years at a Title 1 ele-

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

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

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

Visitors Welcome Visitors & & Residents Residents Welcome

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

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

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

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

SINGERS INVITED FOR MESSIAH

An Ecumenical Church that Welcomes all People Founded in 1956

Follow us on Facebook • www.longboatislandchapel.org

October: Lord’s Warehouse hours are M/W/Sat, 9-1

Christ Church of LBK (Presbyterian USA) will Present The Christmas portion of Handel’s Messiah with Professional Soloists and Orchestra.

Saturday Evening Worship Saturdays at 5pm

Contemporary Style Message • Communion

WE WOULD LIKE TO INVITE YOU TO JOIN US IN THIS JOYOUS EVENT. LOOKING FOR EXPERIENCED CHORAL SINGERS. ALL VOICES.

All Are Welcome!

• Rehearsals are every Monday evening, 8:00 PM until 8:30 PM, starting October 16.

Sunday Worship 9am & 11am

Join us for Fellowship & Coffee Hour at 10am

Oktoberfest Celebration October 28th, 12-2pm Authentic German Food Beverages • Live Music

“The Phantom of the Opera” Silent Film October 30th, 7pm

Accompanied on the organ by Adam Aceto, Walt Disney Co. Organist

40 North Adams Drive, Sarasota, FL • 941.388.1234

• Dress rehearsal is Saturday, December 9, 1:00 PM, with orchestra.

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.

• The presentation is Sunday, December 10, 10:00 AM at our regular Sunday Service.

• You will be provided with the score and a teaching CD with your part on it.

• Contact Robert Romanski, Director of Music at: Robertromanski157@gmail.com

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

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

On Sunday, December 10th at 10:00 AM

Growing in Jesus’ Name

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All are welcome at All Angels no exceptions

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

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

DONATIONS: In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bob’s name to the Tidewell Foundation 3550 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34239 (855)843-3935.

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with a lasting tribute in print

It is with great sorrow to announce the passing of Robert J. Simmons. Bob passed away peacefully at home on Monday, September 25th 2023, with his loving wife and family by his side.

mentary school in Sarasota.

There has to be pleasure in paradise and Bob excelled at sports - especially tennis!

When a dear friend passed, Bob kept his legacy alive by running “The Ruff Group” a men’s tennis group where dear friendships were made and great tennis was played at the Longboat Key Club Tennis Center.

Whether running a company, a board meeting or a tennis match - Bob was always a gentleman and a gentle man. He could resolve issues and calm tempers with his ability to listen before speaking. Even when he received the devastating diagnosis of ALS, Bob was gallant and brave in the face of the disease that took so much from him.

A Funeral Mass and Celebration of Life are being planned. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bob’s name to the Tidewell Foundation 3550 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34239 (855)843-3935.

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Memorialize your loved one

Robert J. Simmons 1943-2023

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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Hearts Forever in our

TRIBUTES

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

13

NEW HOMES ON THE NATURAL SIDE S A R A S O TA E A S T

NEW HOMESITES AVAILABLE

Finding a new home with the space you need – inside and out – shouldn’t be complicated. At Artistry Sarasota it’s natural, with fresh new home designs, spacious waterfront & preserve homesites, and a lakeside amenity center open for recreation and fun.

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Realtors Warmly Welcomed. Pricing, availability, specifications and amenities are subject to change without notice. CRC057817/CGC1514916

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OCTOBER 12, 2023

YOUR NEIGHBORS

‘SMART DOUBLES’ Ron Shields published a tennis program that builds muscle memory so players can focus on the social benefits of tennis.

PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER

R

on Shields met the two most important people in his life because of tennis.

The Longboat Key tennis pro met his wife when she was learning how to play, and Shields’ best man was his doubles partner starting in 1998.

As Shields, 62, enters a new stage in his career, he hopes to bring people together through tennis so it can impact their lives the way it did his.

“Tennis creates an environment in which you can develop and maintain long-term friendships,” said Shields.

After retiring from coaching tennis hands on, Shields published his first book, “Smart Doubles,” in August. It covers his philosophy on teaching recreational tennis players how to play doubles tennis.

“The main purpose of the book is to create more interest and excitement about tennis and specifically the game of doubles,” said Shields. “‘Smart Doubles’ is not just a book, it is a program that can be utilized to create more access to tennis, more excitement about tennis and opportunities for more people to learn, improve, excel and benefit.”

“Smart Doubles” is a time-tested program that Shields developed while working in Atlanta. It’s for new or returning recreational tennis players. He uses techniques that enforce specific shots, positioning and strategies into muscle memory.

Shields emphasizes that his program will help people think less while

‘SMART DOUBLES’

Buy “Smart Doubles” on Amazon, Barnes and Nobles or SmartDoubles.com.

For questions about the program, contact Ron Shields at 941-977-1806 or Support@ SmartDoubles.com.

they play and enjoy the game more by relying on muscle memory and practice. His book is a guide to learning his thought process behind it.

“Ron’s Riffs,” memorable phrases Shields thought of that describe different plays, are what he is most well-known for.

Shields’ methods allow people to open up to the social aspect of the sport, especially while participating in doubles. Engaging in a game of doubles gives people the chance to bond together while prioritizing physical activity.

“My goal with this book is to impact the community because

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Tennis for Fun volunteers Molly Gleason, Michelle Coates, athlete Ryan Smith, directors Brenda Shields and Ron Shields and athletes Nico Moschini, Tim Rabbu and Briana Schmidt

Courtesy images

Tennis pro and author Ron Shields published his first book, “Smart Doubles,” in August.

‘Smart Doubles’ is a program of empowering clubs and facilities and growing tennis in the community,” said Shields. “I have specific clinics and specific things to do that will invite people to make it social and make it interesting and fun.”

Originally from Little Rock, Arkansas, tennis was Shields’ go-to activity as a child.

In high school, he played varsity tennis and was ranked in the top 10 for boys singles matches. He graduated from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 1983 and taught tennis part time to support himself through college. In 1986, he continued to teach and was certified by the United States Professional Tennis Association in 1992.

Shields relocated to Atlanta in 1993, where he was a teaching pro for 11 years. In the summer of 2004, he moved to the Sarasota area and started working at the Colony Beach and Tennis Resort on Longboat. Shields taught on Longboat for 19 years.

This June, Shield was awarded the USPTA Regional Professional of The Year in Florida. He’s since retired from coaching and giving lessons to make time for the next stage in his career: being an author.

“Pickleball has taken over courts and we don’t have anything against pickleball, but it’s kind of like tennis has gone a little bit south because it’s

not handled properly through clubs and stuff,” said Brenda Shields, Ron’s wife. “I think that’s what really pulled his heart for the book. He wants to put the spark back into tennis.”

Ron Shields has started writing his second book called “Enrichment of Life Begins with Love.” It will cover how he started his tennis journey and how it has built him into the person he is today.

Ron and Brenda are also directors of Sarasota Tennis for Fun. In partnership with Special Olympics, they host free weekly clinics for children and adults with disabilities.

Shields will be holding book signings for “Smart Doubles” at the Market on Longboat Key on Dec. 11, Jan. 15, Feb. 12 and April 15 at Town Center Green.

“When I got started in tennis, what drove me was the people who supported me and enabled me to grow into a tennis player and as a person as well,” said Shields. “Tennis has taught me about self-love, unconditional love, compassion. My new book will touch on the topic of love from my perspective and how it has come about through tennis and through relationships. Tennis is a lifetime sport that builds on so many different things. I was lucky that I did get involved and managed to excel at tennis.”

A HANDFUL OF RON’S RIFFS “The riffs create less thinking and more connection. Instead of all the technical, long jargon, it makes it easier to just do instead of think,” said Shields.

High you die: “Put the ball away/take out the other net player.”

DSW: “Deep the deep, short the short and wide the wide. If you’re deep, hit deep. If you’re short, hit short. If you’re pulled wide, hit wide.”

FTB: “Follow the ball.”

Other riffs: Low you go; Happy feet; It’s Party Time; What’s your plan, Stan?

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

KEY HEALTH

16

The dreaded c-word Adopting healthy dietary and exercise habits is a cornerstone of cancer prevention.

MIRABAI HOLLAND CONTRIBUTOR

O

LIVING ROOM SALE October 1-31, 2023

Sale Includes: Fireplaces Curios Rockers Sofas Accent Chairs

Upholstery Entertainment Centers TV Stands Occasional Tables Bookcases

Excludes previous purchases and Miller’s Cabinetry.

May not be combined with other offers or discounts.

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ctober is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so I’m reminded of how important it is to do self-exams, get regular checkups and mammograms.

But this month brings an unwelcome reminder for me personally, since I lost my mother, sister and father to various forms of cancer. So I’ve decided to dedicate this month’s column to the c-word in general and what we can do to prevent and manage it.

Genetics obviously play a big role in whether you’ll develop cancer.

But environment and lifestyle are also key.

According to a study published in the June 13, 2023, issue of the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Journal, 30%-50% of all cancer diagnoses and over 40% of cancer deaths are linked to unhealthy lifestyle practices including smoking, bad eating habits, obesity, excess alcohol use and not enough exercise. The data suggests that these cancers are largely preventable with lifestyle changes.

As a health coach, I’m all about changing lifestyles to prevent or manage health issues, and science supports my enthusiasm.

Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed form of cancer, and lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among all Americans. By using sunscreen and not smoking, these two cancers are often preventable.

Eating well and getting plenty of exercise are among the most important things we can do to prevent cancer. Exercise helps to control your weight and stabilize hormones.

Courtesy image

Thirty minutes of moderate, low-impact ­cardiovascular exercise a day, like brisk walking or biking, can help reduce your cancer risk.

Controlling your weight helps reduce the risk of breast, colon, endometrium, esophageal and kidney cancers. A healthy low-fat, high-fiber diet of fruits and vegetables is also a major factor in reducing cancer risk.

Thirty minutes of moderate, lowimpact cardiovascular exercise a day, like brisk walking or biking, also helps reduce your cancer risk.

For cancer patients, easy cardio exercise has been shown to increase hemoglobin levels, reduce inflammation, lessen fatigue, keep muscles in shape for better everyday activities, increase self-confidence, reduce depression and aid in recovery from surgery.

Cancer treatments are improving. Highly effective combination and targeted treatments are being developed. And doctors have now included lifestyle as an integral part of long-term cancer management.

With new treatment options, healthy habits and watchfulness, many cancers need not be the death sentence they used to be.

Mirabai Holland is CEO of NuVue LLC. She is a certified health coach, exercise physiologist and wellness consultant for Manatee County government employees and has a private practice. She holds an MFA from NYU and is also an artist who believes creativity enhances health. For more from Mirabai, visit MirabaiHolland. com.

Life is a Breeze for Sarasota County Seniors!

Retirement should be about shopping with friends, dining with family, pickleball games, beach sunsets, lifelong learning and pursuit of your passions. Spend less time driving and more time enjoying. We’ll get you there.

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Start your journey: scgov.net/breeze

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

17

THE ACKERMAN GROUP

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RYAN ACKERMAN

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

Complete care for snowbirds Dr. Daren Spinelle wants to make health care accessible for all residents, even those living in Longboat part time.

PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER

T

he Medical Suite at The Paradise Center is becoming a one-stop shop for health needs on the island thanks to Dr. Daren Spinelle.

“We have physical therapy; I’ve got a nutritionist; I’m having conversations with many people to improve their diet plan,” said Spinelle. “The Paradise Center does great with activities that help mental and physical health. I’m hoping to create a one-stop shop for all your health needs.”

Spinelle started seeing patients at his new Paradise Center practice in January. He is now promoting a new health plan specifically made to offer snowbirds full health care during the time they spend on the Key. The practice offers two programs: Concierge Complete and Concierge Light. Concierge Complete offers a full health plan with concierge medical care and clinic visits for

“By working throughout the country, I can see many different cultures and many different preferences towards certain medicines and/or approaches to medicine in general.”

— Dr. Daren Spinelle

year-round residents or anyone who wants to have health care on the Key. With Concierge Light, Spinelle would work with people’s at-home physicians to provide access to personalized health care without being on a full health plan while they are on Longboat.

Spinelle grew up in Long Island, New York. During his high school volunteering days, he was a part of his local fire department and emergency medical services volunteer program. When he found out his best friend was going to the University of Tampa, he decided to follow him. He continued to grow his EMS background there.

He was a part of multiple college EMS organizations such as the National Collegiate EMS Foundation and the Global Alliance for Disaster Reduction and Resilience.

“During Hurricane Katrina, one of my friends, the chief at Tulane University EMS, which is where Hurricane Katrina hit, called all of his colleagues to bring in resources and we did,” said Spinelle.

“About 10 of us came together and started putting together ambulances and EMS equipment and resources to provide response during Hurricane Katrina.”

This inspired Spinelle to major in government and world affairs for his undergraduate degree. He went to Ross University for medical school and did his residency at St. Mary’s Hospital in Waterbury, Connecticut.

Now Spinelle is a traveling physician, working at hospitals around the country while running his practice on the island. One week a month, he flies to where help is needed.

Petra Rivera

Dr. Daren Spinelle offers accessible health care for the residents of Longboat Key at The Paradise Center Medical Suite.

Spinelle has worked in Fort Myers, Naples, Connecticut, New York, Texas and West Virginia. He was at Sarasota Memorial Hospital for a couple months, which is where he met his wife. He has been living with his wife and son on Longboat Key since 2021.

“You can tell when a person did their training by their preference and medicines,” said Spinelle. “If you go to one hospital, you’ll be surrounded by the culture and their preference for different things. By working throughout the country, I can see many different cultures and many different preferences towards certain medicines and/or approaches

to medicine in general.

“By working in different hospitals around the country, I can see when something works or something doesn’t. It definitely gives me a broader breadth of knowledge when it comes to how to treat a patient, even pretty basic things.”

When Spinelle moved his family to Longboat, he thought it was the right time to start his own practice.

His parents-in-law heard that Suzy Brenner of The Paradise Center was looking for a primary care doctor for the medical suite. Spinelle took the opportunity and started seeing patients there in January.

Brenner said that she has heard

only positive feedback from his patients. She shared that everyone emphasizes how much time and care he gives during appointments.

He allows patients to spend as much time as they need in their visit, doesn’t rush through appointments and makes appointments as personal as possible.

“I’ve learned a lot of medicine throughout the country, but I have a family here on Longboat now and my obligation is to stay here to tend the patients on Longboat,” said Spinelle.

“The patients come first. And I want people to know that I am just five minutes away and I can give more time with you than most clinics.”

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

The Observer’s

Weather

• 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

&Nature

2023-24 PHOTO CONTEST

411823-1

A R E F L E C T I O N O F N AT U R E ’ S B E A U T Y

941.724.7228

440 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Longboat Key, FL 34228

CathyMeldahl@michaelsaunders.com

Exceptional Service by your Neighborhood REALTOR® “I have had the absolute pleasure to work with JoDene professionally on three major transactions. Her knowledge, her ability to read the market and her willingness to always be available to me with her “can do” spirit meant the world to me.”

JoDene Moneuse SOLD: 450 Firehouse Rd. $1,550,000.

Represented the Seller and the Buyer SOLD: 700 Dream Island Rd. $2,968,000.

Represented the Buyer

Submitted by: Becky Edwards

SOLD: 2115 Harbourside Dr. $889,000.

Represented the Seller SOLD: 530 De Narvaez $1,050,000.

Represented the seller PENDING: 628 Lyons Lane $1,450,000.

Representing the Seller

JoDeneMoneuse@michaelsaunders.com LongboatKeyLiving.com

941.302.4913

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

19

WATER

on the

Reid Murphy Presents

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

Completion September 2023. New 5BD/8BA situated Gulfront on100 feet of pristine 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 features a private lanai. Top floor has three guest suites with private terraces. Covered outdoor space has fireplace, outdoor kitchen & dining area. Dramatic infinity pool/spa and sundeck overlook the beautiful Gulf waters.

3 car garage. Home elevator.

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.

NEW PRICE

PENDING

LONGBOAT KEY BOATERS DREAM 2,500,000

LONGBOAT KEY EN PROVENCE 4,935,000

LONGBOAT KEY L’AMBIENCE 3,650,000

$

$

$

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.

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.

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.

Amenities include lobby concierge, 24hr guarded gate, olympic sized pool, 2 hartru tennis courts, fitness center & more.

SOLD

SOLD

LONGBOAT KEY WATER CLUB 3,750,000

$

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.

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

• 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.

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410265-1

LONGBOAT KEY GULF FRONT 7,250,000

$

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

LONGBOAT KEY 1620 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 502 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 4,992 Sq. Ft. Georgia Kopelousos 941-928-7585 A4570079 $12,995,000

LAST UNIT AVAILABLE

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

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 6509 Gulf Drive 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 2,954 Sq. Ft. Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4550326 $3,700,000

SARASOTA The Ritz-Carlton Tower Residences, 701 3 Beds 3 Baths 3,751 Sq. Ft. Beth Afflebach & Joan Dickinson 941-914-0496 A4552951 $3,500,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 515 Bayview Drive 4 Beds 3 Baths 2,928 Sq. Ft. James Sauter & Randee Long 941-999-8901 A4569730 $3,499,950

ANNA MARIA 117 Maple Avenue 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,323 Sq. Ft. Kristen Srur 941-350-0612 A4582611 $3,350,000

SARASOTA 1718 Bay View Drive 6 Beds 5/1 Baths 4,644 Sq. Ft. Mackenzie Longueuil & Pat Mudgett 941-961-4023 A4584663 $3,350,000

SARASOTA 401 S Palm Avenue 301 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,172 Sq. Ft. Bibi-Ann Allard PA 941-685-0422 A4579421 $2,999,000

LONGBOAT KEY 7094 Longboat Drive E 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,916 Sq. Ft. Linda Driggs 941-374-2920 A4576834 $2,990,000

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 3527 Fair Oaks Lane 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 4,154 Sq. Ft. Kathy Callahan 941-900-8088 A4583932 $2,795,000

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

SARASOTA 1703 Main Street 1103 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,160 Sq. Ft. Brittany Clemen & Joseph McDonald 941-451-5540 A4568014 $2,250,000

LONGBOAT KEY 793 Jungle Queen Way 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,688 Sq. Ft. Beverly St Hilaire & Julie Klick 818-416-2505 A4575835 $2,250,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 101 66th Street 1 3 Beds 3 Baths 1,627 Sq. Ft. Ken Kavanaugh, Jr & Kathy Harman 941-799-1943 A4574636 $2,200,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 215 65th Street 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,184 Sq. Ft. Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4562386 $1,950,000

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 834 Bayport Way 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,601 Sq. Ft. Tryla Brown Larson 941-962-1122 A4569643 $972,500

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 5300 Gulf Drive 506 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,057 Sq. Ft. Ken Kavanaugh, Jr & Kathy Harman 941-799-1943 A4583033 $969,000

LONGBOAT KEY 6960 Poinsetta Avenue 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,461 Sq. Ft. Cindy Fischer 941-465-1124 A4583722 $850,000

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 3155 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 237 1 Bed 1 Baths 680 Sq. Ft. Robert Dardas 941-376-7591 A4584609 $690,000

LONGBOAT KEY 542 Sutton Place 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,450 Sq. Ft. Cindy Fischer 941-465-1124 A4568132 $545,000

SARASOTA 500 S Washington Drive 1 Bed 1 Bath 831 Sq. Ft. Douglas Parks 941-400-9087 A4578913 $499,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 511 Bayview Drive 4 Beds 5 Baths 3,353 Sq. Ft. Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4562528 $6,500,000

ANNA MARIA 915 N Shore Drive 4 Beds 4 Baths 2,870 Sq. Ft. Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4582727 $6,450,000

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

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

REAL ESTATE

St. Armands home tops weekly sales at $7.4 million ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR

A

home in John Ringling Estates tops all transactions in this week’s real estate. Andrew and Judith Economos, of Longboat Key, sold their home at 25 S. Washington Drive to Nicholas Lee Reinhart, of Sarasota, for $7.4 million. Built in 1936, it has six bedrooms, sixand-a-half baths, a pool and 7,258 square feet of living area. It sold for $4.4 million 2020.

Photos by Petra Rivera

Andrew and Judith Economos, of Longboat Key, sold their home at 25 S. Washington Drive to Nicholas Lee Reinhart, of Sarasota, for $7.4 million.

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

JOHN RINGLING ESTATES

Thomas Anthony Partington and Barbara Partington, of Cheshire, United Kingdom, sold their home at 442 Cleveland Drive to Annette Swanson, trustee, of St. Paul, Minnesota, for $5.3 million. Built in 1999, it has four bedrooms, fourand-a-half baths, a pool and 3,947 square feet of living area. It sold for $2.9 million 2010.

EMERALD HARBOR

Michael Bowe, of St. Louis, sold his home at 6021 Emerald Harbor Drive to Stephen Richard Walter and Janet Huey Walter, of Longboat Key, for $2 million. Built in 1975, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,002 square feet of living area.

THE PRIVATEER SOUTH

Edgar and Mary Lou Mooney, trustees, of Milwaukee, sold the Unit 1005 condominium at 1000 Longboat Club Road to Amy Evans Burke, trustee, of New Canaan, Connecticut, for $1.45 million. Built in 1972, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,290 square feet of living area. It sold for $640,000 in 2020.

HARBOUR VILLA CLUB AT BUCCANEER

Pauline Young, trustee, of Traverse City, Michigan, sold the Unit 105 condominium at 615 Dream Island Place to Veronica Carol GalantStenger, of Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, for $912,500. Built in 1985, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,293 square feet of living area. It sold for $425,000 in 2010.

21

SEPT. 25-29 LONGBOAT KEY

Imrich Pcola, of Slovakia, sold the home at 763 Saint Judes Drive N. to Gjon Gojcaj and Katrina Berishaj, of Longboat Key, for $881,000. Built in 1963, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,780 square feet of living area. It sold for $200,000 in 2001.

LONGBOAT HARBOUR NORTH

Carl and Karen Myers sold their Unit 206 condominium at 4960 Gulf of Mexico Drive to John Bullock, of Longboat Key, for $827,000.

Built in 1975, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,152 square feet of living area. It sold for $350,000 in 2018.

SPANISH MAIN YACHT CLUB

James Matras sold his Unit 207 condominium at 743 Spanish Drive S. to Korinna and Aaron Drake, of Lakeland, for $592,500. Built in 1969, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,343 square feet of living area. It sold for $450,000 in 2022.

In with the new

SUTTON PLACE

NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION

Lawrence and Janice Wickman, of Masonville, Iowa, sold their Unit 2 condominium at 744 Cadiz Road to Craig and Lori Itagaki, of Glenview, Illinois, for $425,000. Built in 1983, it has two bedrooms, one-and-ahalf baths and 959 square feet of living area. It sold for $140,000 in 2011.

TOP BUILDING PERMITS

Downtown St. Petersburg

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

These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of Sept. 29-Oct. 5 in order of dollar amounts.

SOLD OUT

Longboat Key Address

Permit

Applicant

Amount

1511 Gulf Of Mexico Drive

Re-roof

Tencon Beach

$212,140

Association Inc.

3515 Gulf Of Mexico Drive

New Construction

Thirtyfive Fifteen LLC

$168,995

595 Bay Isles Road # 260

Alt/Renovation

Med Plaza LTD

$116,962

619 Bayport Way

Re-roof

Bayport Beach and

$92,705

Tennis Club Condo Assn. Inc.

6800 Gulf Of Mexico Drive

Alber Susan J

Alt/Renovation

Unit 187

Individual Prop Trust

777 Old Compass Road

Re-roof

$83,120

James Cushman

$80,000

360 Gulf Of Mexico Drive # 311 Windows/Doors

Andrew Da Ponte

$66,121

6040 Gulf Of Mexico Drive

Dock/Seawall/Lift

David Miller

$54,000

3300 Bayou Sound

Re-roof

Catherine Avery

$53,770

4425 Gulf Of Mexico Drive

Windows/Doors

Roger Nunkester

$44,404

3507 Fair Oaks Court

Re-roof

Ralph Hughes

$44,300

625 Jackson Way

Plumbing

Timothy Jones

$41,530

Bishop Real Estate

$37,845

Longboat Key

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

Until 201

Downtown Sarasota

New Construction 4425 Gulf Of Mexico Drive

Windows/Doors

Unit 102

Holdings LLC

4425 Gulf Of Mexico Drive

Windows/Doors

Jennifer Stutts

Windows/Doors

Innovative Investors LLC $37,845

Windows/Doors

Bishop Real Estate

$37,845

The Collection | 941.232.2868 | thecollection1335.com

Unit 102 Unit 102 4425 Gulf Of Mexico Drive

Unit 206

Holdings LLC

4425 Gulf Of Mexico Drive

Bishop Real Estate

Alt/Renovation

Unit 102

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

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

$37,022 $33,000

mscdeveloperservices.com | 844.591.4333 | Sarasota, Florida

Holdings LLC Prices as of December 2022

Source: Town of Longboat Key

Licensed Real Estate Broker

411719-1

4425 Gulf Of Mexico Drive

YourObserver.com

YOUR CALENDAR

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

Make

A Plan.

SUNDAY, OCT. 15

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 18

FOR THE BIRDS From 4-6 p.m. at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail. $75. The avian-inspired work of over a dozen artists will be shown and offered for sale in support of the critical mission of SOS, featuring paintings, photography and other art that depicts indigenous birds. Sip a cocktail and enjoy light bites while viewing the exhibit amid the gardens. Tickets are $75 per person. Capacity is limited. Reserve your spot by visiting www.­ SaveOurSeabirds.org/Events.

OCTOBER 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 offer Champagne to 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.

SUNDAY, OCT. 16

VACCINE CLINIC At 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road. Get your free standard flu and COVID vaccines.

Singles, RSV, pneumonia and Tdap vaccines will also be available for those with Medicare and other insurance. Check with your insurance company to ensure coverage. Bring a valid photo ID and insurance cards.

RECURRING EVENTS MONDAYS

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

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

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND SATURDAYS

LORD’S WAREHOUSE The thrift store will be open 9 a.m. to

Petra Rivera

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 383-2011.

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.

2023 FALL FELINE FUN RUN! Help us Save Lives and Run for the Kitties!

Join us for our 4th annual virtual run in support of the cats and kittens we serve each year

It Makes a Difference.

Now through the end of October Registration is now open and is $45 per registrant.

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All registrations will include a commemorative t-shirt, souvenir race bib, and certificate of completion.

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

REGISTER NOW AT CATDEPOT.ORG

FALL

Taking a few moments now can make a significant

IS IN THE AIR

difference for your loved ones down the road. From

SALE

removing the stress and financial burdens to fulfilling

copenhagen imports

your exact wishes for your celebration of life, pre-planning is the best gift you can give your family.

We’re here to help.

Give us a call today to start the conversation.

FUNERAL HOME, CREMATORY & PREARRANGEMENT CENTER

ToaleBrothers.com | 94 1.955.4171

7211 S. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, Florida 34231 *See Sales Associate for Details

Mon.-Sat. 10-6 • Sun. 12-5 941-923-2569 copenhagen-imports.com

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FURNITURE+LIGHTING+ACCENTS+INTERIOR DESIGN

Proudly serving Sarasota, Bradenton and Venice since 1912.

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22

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

23

A TOP PRODUCING SMALL TEAM IN SARASOTA & MANATEE COUNTY

JUDY KEPECZ-HAYS TEAM

Ritz-Carlton Managed - “THE BEACH RESIDENCES” Beach Club Membership Available Immediately

1300 Benjamin Franklin Dr. #1108 $3,950,000 3 bed, 3 bath | 3,330 Sq Ft Mesmerizing, ever-changing panoramic Sarasota Bay views in a luxurious 3,330 sq. ft. home. Features an 11 ft. ceiling and a split floor plan for optimal Bay and skyline vistas, showcased through glass walls and an expansive wrap-around terrace. www.RitzCarlton1109.com

1300 Benjamin Franklin Dr. #1001 $5,995,000 3 bed, 3.5 bath | 4,194 Sq Ft With three exposures sweeping across the Gulf of Mexico to Sarasota Bay and panoramic views of the downtown skyline, this corner residence is an invitation to experience the beauty of natural light from exploding Sunrise to epic Sunsets. www.RitzCarlton1001.com

1300 Benjamin Franklin Dr. #1109 $3,950,000 3 bed, 3 bath | 3,352 Sq Ft 3-bed, 3-bath or 2-bed + den. Wood floors, 11" ceilings and floor-to-ceiling glass for ample natural light. The open floor plan of the main living area connects to a large wraparound terrace, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces. www.RitzCarlton1109.com

Option: Residences #1108 & #1109 are combined but are available separately - $7,900,000 4 Bedrooms | Flex Room | Den | 6 Bathrooms | 4 Car Indoor Parking | 6,682 Sq Ft | MLS #A4580128 | “If this home were on Bird Key it would be $12mm”

2251 Gulf of Mexico Dr. #204 | Aria - Longboat Key | $10,500,000

450 Partridge Circle | Bird Key- Sarasota | $4,075,000

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

3 bed + office, 3 bath | 2,754 Sq Ft

3 bed + den or 4 beds, 3 bath

3 bed + office or 4 bed, 3.5 bath | 4,032 Sq Ft Epic Modern luxury living in this spectacular gulf-front corner residence which feels like a home on the beach.

3,400 Sq Ft terrace w/Private Pool and a 4-5 Car Garage.

This magnificent structure provides breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico from nearly every room. www.Aria204.com

Sailboat Waterfront Jewel on Bird Key: Perfect for boating enthusiasts, this home showcases indoor/outdoor living and epitomizes coastal elegance with serene Sarasota Bay views. Nestled on a prime deep-waterfront site, it offers stunning bay and canal views, a private boat dock with lift, and quick bay access. www.450Partridge.com

Vaulted ceilings and transom windows enhance spaciousness, complemented by sliding doors and elegant wood accents. The open layout connects a large great room to a dining area and a modern chef's kitchen.

Walk to beach & St. Armands Circle.

Open House - Fri. 2 - 5 / Sat. 12 - 3 / Sun. 11 - 2

435 L’Ambiance Dr. #H802 | Longboat Key $3,995,000

2109 Gulf of Mexico Dr #1404 | Longboat Key $1,500,000

3060 Grand Bay Blvd #122 | Longboat Key | $1,200,000

2 bed, 2 bath | 1,358 Sq Ft Exquisitely updated two-bedroom corner residence at Sunset Beach showcases turquoise water views and spectacular sunsets. Wood flooring, crown molding, and tasteful appointments accented the bright, open floor plan. The main terrace overlooks the Gulf of Mexico through brand new hurricane impact sliders that were replaced along with the windows in 2021. www.450Partridge.com

www.435LAmbianceH802.com

A TOP PRODUCING SMALL TEAM IN SARASOTA & MANATEE COUNTY $2.4 Billion Career Sales

3 bed, 3 bath | 2,250 Sq Ft Grand Bay, Arvida's grand finale. This bay-view corner home boasts wrap-around terraces, 9-ft ceilings, 2 bedrooms plus a study or third bedroom with an en suite.

Featuring marble and wood flooring, refined moldings, and a generous kitchen. Relish the spectacular views, deeded beach access, and Grand Bay's elite amenities: warm pools, fitness hub, tennis, with round-the-clock security. Pet-friendly (no weight limit). www.GrandBay122.com

Coldwell Banker Realty

Lori Lawson Judy Kepecz-Hays Steven Kepecz

423 Saint Armands Circle Sarasota, FL 34236

941-587-1700 941-376-6411

JUDY KEPECZ-HAYS TEAM

Kepecz@JudyHays.com | www.LongboatKeyLuxury.com 411424-1

2 bed + den or 3 bed, 4 bath | 2,525 Sq Ft On the beach, experience unparalleled coastal elegance.

Enjoy sweeping vistas of the Gulf and Sarasota’s skyline, accentuated by stunning sunrises. This updated residence merges interiors with the outdoors through a wraparound terrace and walls of impact glass.

L’Ambiance boasts a private elevator, concierge service, resort-style pool, spa, 3 extra guest suites, 2 tennis courts and a premium gym. Relish in elegance, set against Sarasota’s rich cultural backdrop.

www.408JacksonDr.com

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

Luxuriously Fresh Perspectives INSIDE AND OUT.

R E SI DE NCE SL I DOK EY.COM

From the $6 Millions • 941-888-3131 ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. This project has been filed in the state of Florida and no other state. This is not an offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy the condominium units in states where such offer or solicitation cannot be made. Equal Housing Opportunity. Rosewood Residences Lido Key is owned and being developed, offered and sold by WSR—Lido Beach, LLC (“Developer”). The project is not owned, developed or sold by Rosewood Hotels and Resorts, L.L.C. or any of its affiliates (“Rosewood”). Developer uses the Rosewood marks pursuant to a license agreement with Rosewood, which may be terminated under certain conditions. Rosewood does not assume any responsibility or liability in connection with the condominium. Copyright 2023 © All Rights Reserved.

398364-1

24

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25

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

SUNRISE / SUNSET Sunrise Sunset

FRIDAY, OCT. 13

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: 86 Low: 80 Chance of rain: 74%

Thursday, Oct. 12

7:29a

7:05p

Friday, Oct. 13

7:29a

7:07p

Saturday, Oct. 14

7:30a

7:03p

Sunday, Oct. 15

7:30a

7:01p

SATURDAY, OCT. 14

Monday, Oct. 16

7:31a

7:00p

High: 86 Low: 78 Chance of rain: 54%

Tuesday, Oct. 17

7:31a

6:59p

Wednesday, Oct. 18

7:32a

6:59p

MOON PHASES SUNDAY, OCT. 15 High: 81 Low: 68 Chance of rain: 38%

Oct. 14 New

Oct. 21 First

Oct. 28 Full

Nov. 5 Last

TIDES Highs Lows Thursday, Oct. 12

11:43a

11:46p

6:03a

6:25p

Friday, Oct. 13

12:25p

11:55p

6:37a

6:44p

Saturday, Oct. 14

—

1:05p

7:10a

7:01p

Sunday, Oct. 15

12:07a

1:45p

7:44a

7:16p

Monday, Oct. 16

12:26a

2:29p

8:20a

7:30p

Tuesday, Oct. 17

12:49a

3:21p

9:01a

7:43p

1:19a

4:31p

9:50a

7:49p

Wednesday, Oct. 18 Fran Plumley took this photo of an egret looking for a snack on Longboat Key.

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

The grounded feeling everyone will enjoy

celebrity cipher

DOWN 1 “Monsters, ___” 2 Sushi wrapper 3 Base’s opposite 4 Cubist Picasso 5 Rita of pop 6 Fleecy boot 7 Stink to high heaven 8 Victorious shout 9 Alias letters 10 Word embroidered on some towels 11 Make sense 12 ___ therapy 13 WWF or UNICEF 14 Tries to court 15 Inflammation of the stomach lining 16 Like horses readied at Churchill Downs 17 Super Mario Bros. console 19 Streaming service succeeded by Max 22 Feudal lord’s domain

©2023 Universal Uclick

ACROSS 1 Garten of “Barefoot Contessa” 4 Come down in buckets 8 ___ Men (“Who Let the Dogs Out” band) 12 Miss piggy?

15 Martini base 18 *Gratuitous words?

20 Approved 21 Like vulgarities 23 Place for pegging 25 Self-centered sorts 26 Many a K-pop artist 27 Lock insert 28 “No problem!”

30 Curry on the court 31 Err 34 Sucker 36 Bench press targets

38 *Like a total giveaway

70 Pipe under the sink

40 Brick that hurts to step on 43 “Please! Anything else!”

72 Feature of both ogres and 106 Online addresses onions, as per Shrek (Abbr.)

74 Crude grp.

107 Oodles

104 Apple consumer?

46 Lively bashes 48 “Days of ___ Lives”

78 “I’m so excited!” noise 80 Pre-calc precursor

108 “Look what I did!”

110 [Mic check]

49 King of Judea 82 *Not needing to run a 50 “But really, though?” bar tab?

52 Life in particular regions 84 Hosts a roast, for short

111 Ink cartridge color 113 “Young Frankenstein” assistant

53 *Complimentary, but without praise

87 Ivy in Philly 89 Brillo product

115 It helps people focus 117 Java

55 Things to be ironed out 58 Strike, in the Bible 59 Property co-owner

91 Wipe out 93 Goods sold by Mrs. Lovett in “Sweeney Todd”

119 Debate position 122 Opposite of success 124 “Your money is no good

61 Coffee shop order 63 ___ ed

95 “I wanna know!”

96 *All for naught?

64 Top marks 65 Flat-topped formation 67 Greet at the door

98 Controversial crops, briefly 99 Big name in printers

69 Structure with a crow’s nest

101 ___ Lingus 102 Loverboy

24 Emmy category won by “Succession” in 2022, informally 29 Chill out 32 Springsteen ballad off “Tunnel of Love” 33 In favor of 35 Puts on a coat

51 Under the weather 54 Fasteners used in climbing walls 56 Bumbling 57 Soaks a tea bag 60 Hold in high regard 62 Risk concern?

66 Suspect’s out 68 Dynamite inventor Alfred 71 Obama’s Secret Service code name 73 See eye to eye 75 Source for some plywood 76 Canine’s coat 77 Bug detectors, of a sort 79 Drag ___ 81 Knocks on, as a door 83 Appliance under a range 84 Hajj destination 85 Serbians’ neighbors 86 Luggage giant 88 “Miss Saigon” setting, for short 90 Nile reptiles 92 Glittery dress decoration

“CNM AGMW FD XNWZAOH AX XFRMCNAOH CNWC NWX VMMO SFXC AO FJZ XFUAWS UFOXUAMOUM, WOG IM OMMG CF ZMCNAOY CNWC.” IMX XCJGA

“X AOUJ RFCXUJT PIC YJCPJLFXIT, XF AOR ONDOER JNGMJM SJ, WGF X RGCJNE AOM OT IWNXKOFXIT FI SOZJ ITJ SICJ FCE.”

“TP TCGN BTXCLNSJN XBIWI CV SUFBWI: ... ZRIJ PCK ZLBNI, NLP NC DISFI CKN SDD NRI XSLNG LISUILG GOBX.” IDTCLI DICJSLU

94 Male flock member 97 “Pale Blue ___” (photo of Earth) 100 “Just a ___!”

103 “La Bamba” singer Ritchie 105 Coax 106 Group that calls strikes 109 Ouzo flavoring 112 Far from flush

K. UJCMX

Puzzle Three Clue: V equals F

133 Core components 134 “Jane ___” 135 Mass opening?

136 Take to court

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: L equals C

THANKS FOR NOTHING! by lan Schiff, edited by Jeff Chen

Puzzle One Clue: F equals O

crossword

399842-1

at MANASOTA FLOORING INC

KITCHEN | CABINETRY OUTDOOR PAVERS

© 2023 NEA, Inc.

sudoku

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

114 Charismatic emanation 116 “Don’t go!”

118 Set in stone?

37 Bro or sis 120 Fireworks flops 39 County with some cock- 121 Biblical twin ney accents 122 Start of a giant’s chant 40 Natural dam 123 Barbecue pit morsel 41 Galilean moon 125 “___, this is a Wendy’s”

42 Objects sought in here” ... and a literal descrip- knightly quests 44 Normal, IL or Boring, OR tion of each answer to the 45 Chiding sound starred clues 47 Children of Japanese 129 Join 130 Enjoy a cruise

immigrants

131 Its days are numbered 132 WNW’s opposite

49 Box office smashes

(meme) 126 Stable fodder 127 State tree of Massachusetts and North Dakota 128 Before, poetically

©2023 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

10-12-23

Made for where you live. Here!

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

Homes for Sale

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.

GREAT OPPORTUNITY close to AMI, no flood insurance, 3 bed 2 bath 2 car/garage. Private pool. $699,900 Looking for other homes with pools to buy/sell.

Looking for multi-unit properties.

Looking for sellers to hold note/mortgage. Seller financing, down payment and monthly payments. Avoid gain taxes.

Good, bad, ugly, We buy and sell houses fast.

October Incentive-Buy or Sell with Brooke O’Malley as your Realtor, and CLUB REALTY will Pay your title insurance. Ask how.

Call 941-726-2677

Items Under $200 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 GREAT FINDS LOCATED HERE! AIR BED- queen, self inflates $30.

Floor lamp with table-$20. Sewing machine $20. 941-243-0761

Boat Slips for Rent/Sale

real estate

auto

stuff

Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals

Autos Wanted CASH FOR YOUR CAR We come to you!

Ho Ho Buys cars.

941-270-4400.

DESPERATELY NEEDED Low mileage, cars and trucks.

Also rare or unusual vehicles.

Larry 941-350-7993

GARAGE SALE

Condos/Apts. for Rent 2BR/5BA LONGBOAT Key Beautiful tenth floor, south facing unit overlooking the gulf with views of both Sarasota and Siesta Key. Enjoy recently renovated, sprawling apartment with private elevator and all first class amenities! The den can be used for movie watching or for overnight guests. All bedrooms & den are en-suite. Rental rate $20,000 is monthly and with a 3 month minimum beginning in January 2024. (401) 742-2661

CLICK

SUBMIT

SELL Visit the

RED PAGES

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

Call 941-383-3338.

WEEKLY MONTHLY

Phone (941) 809-1438

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

INTERESTED CANDIDATE SHOULD CONTACT SHAWNTOMFORDE001@ GMAIL.COM DIRECTLY

TREASURES FOUND HERE!

CALL TODAY 941-955-4888 CALL TODAY 941-955-4888 Health Services

PRIVATE DUTY NURSE

Ask about our special rates!

Wagner Realty

941-955-4888 YourObserver.com/RedPages

www.rentalsonlongboat.com

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

•COMPASSIONATE, CUSTOMIZED CARE TAILORED TO YOUR NEEDS •HIGHLY SKILLED & HOSPITAL TRAINED CALL TO DISCUSS A PLAN OF CARE FOR YOU OR YOUR LOVED ONE TODAY. KELLY (941) 350-2204

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

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

Honest & reliable.

Free estimates. 941-744-1020.

35+ years experience.

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “The idea of sharing is something that has been lost in our social conscience, and we need to rethink that.”

Wes Studi Puzzle Two Solution: “I have striven for perfection, it has always eluded me, but I surely had an obligation to make one more try.”

G. Verdi Puzzle Three Solution: “My most important piece of advice: ... When you write, try to leave out all the parts readers skip.”

Elmore Leonard

This week’s Sudoku answers

©2023 NEA, Inc.

DUTIES: Med reminders, Maybe a meal prep, Some Light House Cleaning.

You’re only cheating yourself.

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

peekers’ place

jobs

2BR/2BA LONGBOAT Key Lovely condo at the Atrium 2 bedrooms 2 bathrooms. Living room - dining room - sitting room and kitchen (201) 264-2166

Merchandise Wanted

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

M-F

Condos/Apts. for Sale

or service PAGES in the Observer RED RED PAGES

HHA# 299994819

Since 1939

JOB HOUR PER DAY : 5 HOURS SALARY : $25.00 PER HOUR. DAYS FLEXIBLE

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

Houses or Condos

101

YourObserver.com/RedPages

CAREGIVER/HOME HEALTH AIDE

Perfect Solutions For Seniors

Between

Beachfront, Bayfront and In

5360 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Suite

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

Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

Help Wanted

Advertise your business

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

SEASONAL RATES

Visa/MC

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

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

RED PAGES

LOST CAT- Albert 407-252-8232 $500 Reward Missing from Bay Isles South Entrance. Needs medication.

Advertise your business or service in the Observer

YourObserver.com/RedPages

wagnerlbkrentals@gmail.com

941-955-4888

Visit the

Lost & Found

Adult Care Services

Reservations 941-383-5577

As low as $17.50 per week!

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

Slip does not require membership at the moorings.

PH: 941-724-9486 brent@diffley-wright.com

LONGBOAT KEY gulf-front single family home vacation rental for 6 people. Available now.

Monthly rental negotiable.

941-356-0770

home services

INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888

redpages@yourobserver.com • yourobserver.com/redpages

The The CRYSTAL CRYSTAL CLEAR CLEAR choice! choice!

RED PAGES

©2023 Universal Uclick

TO ADVERTISE CALL 941-955-4888 OR VISIT YOUROBSERVER.COM/REDPAGES

YourObserver.com

27

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

Attorney

Doors

Insurance

Divorce without Lawyers

Sliding Glass Door Repair

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.

“FIX IT - DON’T REPLACE”

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

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

Health

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

GET YOUR LIFE BACK!

William J. Leininger, JD

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

Home • Condo • Auto • Umbrella • Boat • Flood

Give Us a Call - We Can Help

FREE CONSULTATION 941.358.2224

1/10/23, 10:25 AM

BLACK LABEL CAR SERVICE

Luxury for Less

Board Certified in the specialty of non-surgical spinal decompression

WE COME TO YOU

412060

DR. DAVID CIFRA, DC Midtown Medical Park 1215 S. East Ave. Suite 210 Sarasota, FL 34239

412024

Please see attached images. Wanted Autos Client would like similar layout as their business card.

NHWA logo should be at the bottom of the ad.

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

10% offCREATE BUZZ!

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

1/1

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

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.com

Windows

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

411187

5-Star Rated

941-248-4734 410036

FAST • EASY • SAFE

chrome_qrcode_1671726737617.png

Transportation

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

SELL YOUR CAR! HoHoBuysCars.com

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

411188

412046

Do You Have Neck or Low Back Pain?

Do You Want To Avoid Surgery?

Auto Service

941.270.4400

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

412026

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

MIC INSURANCE

EXPERIENCE KNOWLEDGE SOLUTIONS

Home Watch

DESPERATELY NEEDED

Miller’s Home Watch & Services

Miller’s Home & Services Cars & Trucks.

LowWatch Mileage, Providing Peace Of Mind

Also Rare or Unusual Vehicles.

410346

Providing Peace Of Mind

Merlin & Lila Miller & IMPORTS 941-350-7993 UNIQUE SPORT 941-685-6848 • Millershomewatch@gmail.com

Thanks! Caregiver/Companion

MERLIN & LILA MILLER 941-685-6848

410527

Millershomewatch@gmail.com

411095

dan@shorelockhomewatch.com

Res./Com. 412027

(941)544-0475

Carpet Cleaning

www.shorelockhomewatch.com

NEED HELP?

Happy Halloween!

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

410310

941-778-2882 • 941-387-0607 Serving AMI, LBK and Bradenton for 25 years

Check out our 5 Star Reviews on Google

FREE PICKUP / DELIVERY • FREE ONSITE QUOTES

5

$

941-626-3194

Licensed & Insured CCC - 058059 CBC - 1253936

150

$

SPECIAL 00 senior citizen discount. www.sunsetwindowcleaningsrq.com

Purified water window cleaning available!!

412067

411184

Furniture Sales & Repairs Cushions • Slings • Re-powdercoating

941-504-0903

Kenneth Fuhlman Inc. • Aluminum, Vinyl, & Wood Soffit & Fascia Repair & Installation • Roofing Repair & Installation • Metal Roofing & Tile Roof Repair Specialists

Patio Furniture Repairs.com

ows

INCLUDING SCREENS, TRACKS, MIRRORS & FANS

Building & Roofing Contractor

Furniture Repair

25

STANDARD WINDOWS

Roofing

DRIES IN HOURS – NOT DAYS • SATISFACTION GUARANTEED

Form Serving Longboat Key Since 2005

UP TO

Find business and service professionals in the Red Pages.

YourObserver.com/RedPages

Lic./Ins.

& Pressure C Window lean t e s ing as Sunrise Wi n w o n k Sun y l nd er

Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES | 941- 284 - 5880

412030

24 Hour Care • Full Service Home Health Care www.tlchomecaresrq.com • (941) 320-9678 Now Hiring HHA’s & CNA’s

411179

FIRST RESPONDER OWNED & OPERATED

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!

412028

Sandra Smith | 941.383.3388

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2023

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

1325 WESTWAY DRIVE

$15,000,000

3464 MISTLETOE LANE

$2,695,000

This nearly 3,400 SF residence offers a seamless transition into the ultimate coastal lifestyle. Step inside the 4BR interior and fall in love with an open and inviting living space, thoughtfully updated with modern touches that will captivate your senses. The outdoor entertaining areas and convenient community amenities are the perfect finishing touches.

www.3464MistletoeLane.com

3030 GRAND BAY BOULEVARD #316 $2,395,000

201 NORTH WASHINGTON DRIVE

$2,195,000

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

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

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

www.GrandBay316.com

www.201NorthWashington.com

3040 GRAND BAY BOULEVARD #251 $1,999,000

1211 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #802

Sunny bay views welcome you to this 5th-floor, 2,900+ SF retreat, featuring an open, 3BR layout waiting for you to add your personal touches. Includes 2 parking spaces, private beach!

Embrace the captivating beach-to-bay views that stretch from the Gulf, the Bay, and downtown at this sunny, southfacing 8th-floor beach residence. Includes secure parking!

www.GrandBay251.com

www.Promenade802.com

1105 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #404 $1,395,000

6910 SCRUB JAY DRIVE

Beautiful, expansive views of the Gulf are the perfect backdrop at this true 3BR, 4th-floor residence at Beachplace.

Situated in a corner location, with beach and bay terraces.

This move-in ready 4BR home, with family and bonus rooms, offers an oasis of tranquility. Overlooking the preserve and lake, it’s the ideal blend of privacy and convenience.

www.Beachplace5404.com

www.6910ScrubJayDrive.com

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

www.1325WestwayDrive.com

5005 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #3

$1,995,000

$12,000,000

A newer gem completed in 2020, this luxurious 5BR beachfront, turnkey furnished home, is a rare find that invites you to immediately immerse yourself in the lap of waterfront luxury. This home seamlessly blends modern innovation with the allure of West Indies-inspired architecture.

www.BonaireLBK3.com

1350 MAIN STREET #1704

$1,099,000

$5,495,000

Your exclusive downtown oasis awaits. “The One at 1350 Main”, a Penthouse residence perched on the 17th floor, boasts breathtaking panoramic views of downtown, the bay, and the Gulf. This meticulously remodeled residence offers the epitome of city living.

235 COCOANUT AVENUE #125D

www.TheOne1704.com

455 LONGBOAT CLUB ROAD #807

$1,995,000

$949,000

1125 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #101

$899,000

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.

Step out of your door and onto the beach in just a few short strides from this delightful 2BR haven in Building 3 at Beachplace. Easily access the many community amenities.

www.MarqueeEnVille125D.com

www.Beachplace3101.com

549 SUTTON PLACE

$449,000

4337 LINWOOD STREET

$369,999

Gorgeous Gulf-to-bay and sunset views are the star of the show as soon as you enter this 8thfloor, residence at the sought-after Pierre. Ideally placed behind the exclusive and secure gates of Longboat Key Club, this 3BR, 2,400+ SF getaway is ready for you to make it your own.

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

Find comfort with this lovely updated home in the heart of Sarasota. From the open layout to the oversized backyard with covered patio, this home is ready for you.

www.ThePierre807.com

www.549SuttonPlace.com

www.4337LinwoodStreet.com

CALL TODAY FOR YOUR EXCLUSIVE TOUR (941) 387-1840 443 John Ringling Boulevard, Suite F | Sarasota, FL 34236 Pettingell.com | www.bestSarasotarealestate.net Twitter.com/RealRoger | Instagram.com/RogerPettingell | Roger@Pettingell.com The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2023 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. 401542-1

28