Longboat Observer 1.18.24

LONGBOAT

Magic journey.

Observer

Longboat Key’s weekly newspaper since 1978

PAGE 1B

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

FREE • THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

VOLUME 46, NO. 23

6 apply for commission seat Next week, town commissioners will appoint one to the vacant District 5 spot.

SEE PAGE 2A Courtesy image

Latoya Hanna

Zota murder suspect arrested

L

ongboat Key Police Department detectives arrested a suspect in connection to the Aug. 4, 2017, double homicide at Zota Beach Resort.

On Jan. 12, detectives took 34-year-old Latoya Hanna into custody in St. Lucie County after a sixyear investigation in collaboration with the Manatee County Homicide Investigative Unit and the FBI. Longboat Key detectives were assisted in the arrest by the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office.

Hanna was arrested and charged with felony murder and remains in custody in St. Lucie County Jail without bond. Felony murder is a capital offense punishable by life in prison.

On Aug. 9, 2017, Darryl Hanna Jr., a former part-time security guard at Zota and Latoya Hanna’s twin brother, was arrested and taken to Manatee County Jail without bond.

Hanna Jr. fell into a strokeinduced coma on Sept. 10, 2017, and later died. He was charged with two counts of second-degree murder and one count of robbery. Police say Hanna took $900 from the hotel cash register.

The victims were the hotel’s 59-year-old night desk manager Timothy Hurley, and 51-year-old security guard Kevin Carter.

The last homicide on Longboat Key prior to the 2017 case was in 2000. This story will be updated on YourObserver.com.

YOUR TOWN

FIREHOUSE FIELD TRIP Longboat Key families get a special tour of the Fire Rescue station.

SEE PAGE 9A

Carter Weinhofer

Greysun Gross-Hendel tests the power of the water hose during a Jan. 15 trip to Longboat Key Fire Rescue Station 92.

A+E

Petra Rivera

Ann Quackenbush and Don Mateer

Planting hope

Christ Church of Longboat Key spent Jan. 15 packing seeds for the nonprofit Hope Seeds.

Hope Seeds is a Christian organization that works to reduce world hunger by providing seeds and gardening tools to over 60 countries, which are either impoverished or struck by disaster.

Christ Church member Ann Quackenbush is the Hope Seeds volunteer event coordinator in Bradenton. She said that church members hold the nonprofit close to their hearts.

The group has packed over 360,000 individual packets for Hope Seeds since 2016.

Courtesy image

Soon, those in the Manatee County portion of Longboat Key will able to dial up a ride on demand.

New way to get around OnDemand ride-share system expands to cover the Key. PAGE 4A

Evolution remix. INSIDE

2A

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

6 applicants file for vacant commission seat Longboat Key commissioners will have several choices when appointing a new commissioner on Jan. 22.

Bosco said Longboat Key stands out to her among all other places she’s been, and she has developed a deep love for the area. Now choosing to retire here, she said she wants to make a difference in the community.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

O

n Jan. 22, Longboat Key town commissioners will be tasked with appointing a new District 5 commissioner, choosing from six applicants.

In November, former District 5 Commissioner Debbie Murphy submitted her resignation due to the new Form 6 financial disclosure, which is more in-depth than previous disclosure requirements.

The remaining commissioners chose to appoint a commissioner to serve a 14-month term until March 2025. At that time, the next general election will be held and the elected person will fill the remainder of Murphy’s original term until March 2026.

Current commissioners will have to choose one of the six applicants to take the seat on Jan. 22. Until then, commissioners are encouraged to correspond with the applicants before the vote.

Here are the six applicants vying for the District 5 seat:

JAMES HAFT

PATTI MAE BOSCO

Haft and his wife have been Longboat Key residents since 2012, but he said both have been visiting since the late 1970s. He said his parents were among the original pioneers of Lands End. In his professional life, Haft is the managing principal of Haft Holdings Inc., a private real estate investment company. Previously, he worked as managing partner for a development company, and practiced real estate and construction law.

Within the Longboat community, Haft said he has participated in Longboat Key North meetings and serves on the Lands End Homeowners Association Board of Directors.

He also spearheaded a community effort to encourage noise ordinance enforcement against boaters around the Jewfish Key and Beer Can Island area.

Haft said he was approached a couple years ago about a commission seat but declined then. Now he is looking for the opportunity to serve and give back to the community to make a difference.

Bosco has been a Manatee County resident since 2006, first residing on Longboat Key in 2017. Though she moved away for a brief period due to traffic issues conflicting with raising teenagers, she recently moved back to the island in December 2023.

On Longboat Key, she has been active with the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce as an Ambassador and Outreach Committee member, and with the Longboat Island Chapel.

She has been an entrepreneur and real estate professional for over 28 years, holding positions over the years as a sales associate, broker/ owner, partner and sole proprietor.

SARAH KARON

Karon and her husband first bought their Longboat Key house in 2009 and then became residents in 2014.

Currently, Karon serves as board president for the Library Foundation for Sarasota County. Throughout her professional career, she has served on boards for organizations such as WUSF Public Media and the St. Paul Academy and Summit School.

Over the years, Karon said she has

Patti Mae Bosco

James Haft

Sarah Karon

Christopher Laurent

Dr. James Whitman

On the island, Whitman engages with the community by regularly attending Town Commission meetings, serving as a liaison between the commission and the Sleepy Lagoon neighborhood. Whitman also graduated from the Longboat Key Citizens Academy.

He has also served as vice president of the Sleepy Lagoon Homeowners Association and secretary of the Longboat Key Kiwanis Club.

ments LLC and executive vice president with American Electric Power.

He also served as treasurer and board member of One Island One Beach, a community group on the north end of the island.

In his cover letter sent to the town, he said he feels that the commissioner position would be an interesting and impactful way to give back to the Longboat Key community.

been watching the Town Commission and was impressed with how everyone works together to keep the island thriving. She said she is the kind of person who enjoys getting involved and working on community projects and hopes to join the commission’s efforts.

CHRISTOPHER LAURENT

Laurent has been a Longboat Key homeowner since 2019 and a permanent resident since 2023.

He has 25 years of experience in the U.S. Navy, and retired with the rank of captain. During his military experience, he said he was able to work with congressional representatives and senators and held several leadership positions. Since retiring from the Navy, he has been a nurse practitioner at various medical practices.

Laurent said he stays up to date on issues facing District 5 by speaking with community members and seeks to provide a strong voice for the district.

DR. JAMES WHITMAN

Whitman moved to Longboat Key in 2005 and is a year-round resident along with his wife.

His professional background is as a physician and psychiatrist, having provided hospital-based, community, teaching and forensic services.

He is semi-retired and still provides part-time consulting.

ERIC VAN DER WALDE

Most recently, van der Walde taught algebra at Manatee High School, coming from a financial background.

He held various positions such as managing partner at Da Silva Invest-

Editor’s note: Eric van der Walde did not respond to the Observer’s requests for a photo and/or more information.

.com e s u ho

e War e r u rnit

Fu

The

12 MONTHS NO INTEREST* PICK UP TODAY OR NEXT DAY DELIVERY AVAILABLE

ambiance Add warmth and elegance to your living room with this sectional.

Stylish

leather

Leather sofa. Matching loveseat & sleeper available. Also in cream & gray.

Stores Hours: Mon-Sat 9-9, Sun 11-6

1399

Maximum

$

849

Bright

$

$

99

$

SOUTH SARASOTA 5252 S. Tamiami Trail (at Phillippi Creek) 941-260-9601

99 SOFA

NORTH SARASOTA 4027 N Washington Blvd (Hwy 301) 941-351-8600

relaxation Leather reclining sofa. Matching loveseat & recliner available. Navy, Ivory or Gray.

and lively Vibrant and fun pieces add a touch of nature to your living space.

BRADENTON 1100 Cortez Rd W (corner US Hwy 41) 941-749-6069

ELLENTON 5814 18th Street East (across Premium Outlets) 941-479-7900

899

99 SOFA

64999 SOFA

VENICE 550 S Seaboard Ave (US Hwy 41 Bypass) 941-485-3211

PORT CHARLOTTE 1241 El Jobean Rd (across Sam’s) 941-764-8700

* On Purchases $300 or more with the Furniture Warehouse credit card made between January 18, 2024 and January 17, 2025. Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date if the promotional purchase is not paid in full within 12 months,

by January 2025. Minimum Monthly Payments required. Offer applies to only single-receipt qualifying purchases. No interest will be charged on promo purchase and equal monthly payments are required equal to initial promo purchase amount divided equally by the number of months in promo period until promo is paid in full. The equal monthly payment will be rounded to the next highest whole dollar and be higher than the minimum payment that would be required if the purchase was a non-promotional purchase. Regular account terms apply to non-promotional purchases. For new accounts: Purchase APR is 29.99%; Minimum Interest Charge is $2. Existing cardholders should see their credit card agreement for their applicable terms. Subject to credit approval. Furniture must be delivered within 60 days for all financing offers. All prices include Hot Buys, Coupon savings or any promotional discounts. Terms of promotions - Previous purchase excluded, cannot be combined with any other promotion or discount. Promotion offers exclude Hot Buys, floor models or clearance items, sales tax, furniture protection plans, warranty, delivery, or service charge. One discount per household.

417466-1

Sophisticated

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

3A

Courtesy images

Suncoast Waterkeeper board member Alison Albee and executive director Abbey Tyrna gather water samples.

WHAT’S IN THE WATER?

Suncoast Waterkeeper’s ­executive director explains how weekly monitoring informs swimmers about potential health hazards.

CARTER WEINHOFER

TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY BOAT RAMP 4.9%

STAFF WRITER

I

s the water safe for recreation?

Suncoast Waterkeeper can give you a good idea.

Every week, the environmental organization collects water samples from popular recreational waters in Sarasota Bay to answer this question and monitor water pathogens.

The main pathogen is enterococci, a type of fecal contamination bacteria commonly used as a saltwater quality indicator as it relates to health hazards.

Suncoast Waterkeeper began regularly monitoring enterococci levels at the start of 2020, a program that now includes 11 sites throughout Manatee and Sarasota counties. On Longboat Key, the Longboat Key Boat Ramp on the north end of the island and Bayfront Park are a part of the testing.

“It’s important to do because we alert people as to the risk of swimming in and around the Suncoast in some of their favorite areas,” Suncoast Waterkeeper Executive Director Abbey Tyrna said.

When choosing testing sites, Tyrna said it first had to be determined that the sites did not have a preexisting history of pollution. Secondly, the sites had to be popular recreational spots, specifically ones where people are getting in the water.

Once a week, Suncoast Waterkeeper sends someone out to the field to collect water samples and drop them off at a local lab.

Sample results are delivered as the number of enterococci bacteria cells per milliliter of water. The threshold is 70 cells/mL, so any result that reads 71 or above is considered a failure.

The safe threshold varies for different uses, such as boating. Tyrna said the threshold of 70 cells/mL is the most conservative and strict.

For Jan. 8, the Longboat Key boat ramp had 31 cells/mL of bacteria in the sample. But at Bayfront Park, the result was 134 cells/mL. While this isn’t always a cause for panic, Tyrna said that swimming in waters with elevated levels can pose some health risks.

High c o n c e n t ra t i o n s of enterococci bacteria can be a risk if ingested while swimming or the water gets into the body through open cuts or sores, according to the Florida Department of Health. This can cause skin irritation and possibly

95.1% LONGBOAT KEY BAYFRONT PARK 14.6% The Florida Suncoast Waterkeeper patrol boat was purchased thanks to a grant from the William G. and Marie Selby Foundation.

85.4% TAKING COUNT

To analyze the samples, labs use a technology called Enterolert. Tyrna said labs put samples into ice traylike containers and add in a chemical dye that makes the enterococci fecal bacteria glow.

From there, the trays are put in an incubator for 24 hours.

The number of fluorescent wells then correlates to a specified range.

Tyrna said when she used to conduct analyses before this method was invented, researchers used to count the cells individually, something she said was labor intensive.

infections.

The DOH website also cites a study conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency that shows a correlation between enterococci and swimming-related gastrointestinal illnesses.

The weekly monitoring program provided by Suncoast Waterkeeper helps to inform swimmers of the potential risks, but looks at the bigger picture.

“I think without monitoring, you

can’t find solutions and go after them,” Tyrna said.

SOURCES AND SOLUTIONS

First and foremost, one of the things that Tyrna advised is that rain plays a significant role in the results.

“What we’ve found through doing this work in these areas for the last few years, is a certain trend that, after it rains, to stay out, especially if you are immunocompromised or have open sores,” Tyrna said.

Rainwater can exacerbate the runoff of this bacteria from sources such as septic systems, agriculture and even pet waste.

There can also be spikes from local sources, such as decaying plant matter. This exact reason was attributed to a spike of 24,196 cells/mL at Bayfront Park back in September.

“If there’s not a lot of decaying plants and it hasn’t rained, it’s either a local source or it’s the sediments that have been disturbed and released the bacteria,” Tyrna said.

When talking about solutions, often the natural next question is: what can be done to mitigate the impacts?

“We’re getting to the bottom of what the sources are, so that solutions start to be thought about,” Tyrna said. “I think for a lot of cases, the solution might be super expen-

sive and so adapting might be the way to go.”

Long-term, bigger solutions include things like regulating waste discharge and wastewater treatment upgrades, she said.

But adapting to these environmental changes may prove more realistic. This could mean changing behaviors and staying out of the water after rainfall.

FUTURE SAMPLING

Tyrna said Suncoast Waterkeeper is currently working on taking testing a step further.

While current sampling only detects the presence of enterococci fecal bacteria, there are DNA tests that can determine if the bacteria is from a human or non-human source.

“We learned that, in just about every place we looked, human DNA is in the sample,” Tyrna said. “But what we don’t know is what percentage of the problem is from humans, and that’s what we’re trying to get to the bottom of.”

These samples are qualitative, rather than quantitative. The analysis will look closer at the DNA in both the sediment and the water.

For now, Suncoast Waterkeeper is sticking to two samples in the Palma Sola Bay area. These samples are more expensive, though, costing

% of times passed water quality test % of times failed water quality test

LEARN MORE

Weekly results are posted to Suncoast Waterkeeper’s social media. Suncoast Waterkeeper’s website also has an interactive map with all the sample locations and updated measurements.

For more information, visit SuncoastWaterKeeper.org/ safetoswim.

around $1,500 for two samples. The weekly samples cost $11 per sample.

That being said, the organization is working on funding from a private source, along with using some of its own funds. These samples will help the organization better understand the sources of fecal bacteria at these sites.

4A

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

Need a lift?

GIVE BLOOD

SAVE A LIFE!

New unified OnDemand ride-share system to include Manatee County portion of Longboat Key.

THERE IS A CRITICAL NEED FOR BLOOD DONATIONS THE SUNCOAST BLOOD CENTER BUS IS COMING SOON TO LONGBOAT KEY!

• WHERE: Longboat Island Chapel at 6200 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Longboat Key • WHEN: Friday, January 19th from 10am - 2pm Saturday, January 20th from 9am - 1pm

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

418742-1

Walk-ins accepted but appointments are encouraged.

Call the SunCoast Blood Center at 941-954-1600 to schedule. *All donors receive a FREE $10 Publix Gift Card and a 10% off Coupon for use at the Lord’s Warehouse Thrift Shop.

THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR YOUR LIFE-SAVING DONATION! — The Longboat Island Chapel —

Restaurant Specials Steak & Frites Tuesday Nights $36.99 Wine Down Wednesdays 25% Off All Bottles of Wine Italian Wine Dinner Thursday, January 18th | 6:30pm $160/person (gratuity and tax not included)

Willamette Valley Vineyards Wine Dinner Thursday, January 25th | 6:30pm $135/person (gratuity and tax not included)

View our Menu Reservations Suggested

H

ow does someone get around on Longboat Key without a car? Soon, there will be a simple solution.

Manatee and Sarasota counties approved the expansion of Sarasota County’s OnDemand service to include all of Longboat Key beginning on Jan. 29.

The approval was included in the consent agenda of the Manatee County Commission meeting on Jan. 9 and the Sarasota County Commission meeting on Jan. 10.

The expansion is progress toward a unified public transit system on Longboat Key, something that has been in the works for nearly five years, according to Town Manager Howard Tipton.

He said he was “ecstatic” about the approval. While the process may have been slow, he said that was a positive in this case.

“The benefit of it having taken so long is the whole OnDemand transit option has really now developed itself,” Tipton said.

OnDemand is a “curb-to-curb” ride-share system, similar to Uber or Lyft. Through this system, riders pay a flat fee of $2 per rider. Children younger than 5 years old are free.

The service is a part of Breeze, Sarasota County’s public transit

system. The four designated zones of the system are: downtown Sarasota/ Lido Key/Longboat Key, North Port Area, Venice/Englewood Area and Siesta Key. Ridership numbers for the Longboat Key zone have not been as high as other areas, but the county is looking at the positive impacts of this expansion, according to Sarasota County Director of Transit Jane Grogg.

“We’re looking at this expansion with Longboat as another way to build that ridership base in this zone and increase our ridership,” Grogg said.

Currently, the Downtown Sarasota/Lido Key/Longboat Key zone extends to the county line on Longboat Key, just north of Bayfront Park.

The new agreement will absorb the Manatee County portion of Longboat Key into this zone. Service will extend across Longboat Pass Bridge, where riders can then pick up Manatee County Area Transportation routes.

“We’re very excited about this expansion and building our ridership,” Grogg said. “We’re providing a way to improve access for transportation while potentially alleviating traffic by people sharing trips.”

OnDemand began in 2021 as a way to optimize the public transportation system. Routes were analyzed and this service was created as a solution, according to Grogg.

“We found a number of routes that were not performing well, and those were grouped into areas, and certain routes were identified as underperforming and those routes were eliminated. Then we added the four OnDemand zones in the county,” Grogg said. “And the ridership has

A Longboat Key Landmark

416758-1

2023 ONDEMAND RIDERSHIP

Siesta Key Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6,893 Downtown Sarasota/Lido Key/LBK Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26,958 Venice/Englewood Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132,462 North Port Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162,135

Breakfast | Brunch | Lunch | Dinner | Catering | Gourmet Deli & Bakery | Corner Store www.HarrysKitchen.com • 5600 Gulf of Mexico Drive • 941-383-0777

Get There in a Hop, Skip and a Splash

LONGBOAT

Observer 1970 Main St., Third Floor, Sarasota, FL 34236 PHONE: 941-366-3468 | WEBSITE: www.YourObserver.com

TO EMAIL US Email press releases, announcements and Letters to the Editor to: Kat Wingert, kwingert@yourobserver.com

TO ADVERTISE Display Advertising: To obtain information, call 941-366-3468, Ext. 319.

Classified Advertising / Service Directory: For information and rates, or to place an ad, call 941-955-4888. Hours 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. To place a classified ad online, visit www.YourObserver.com, or email your ad to classified@yourobserver.com.

TO SUBSCRIBE Free home delivery: The Longboat Observer offers free home delivery to single-family homes on Longboat Key, Bird Key, St. Armands Key, Lido Key and Lido Shores.

The Longboat Observer also delivers to every condominium, resort and commercial building on Longboat Key and Lido Key.

The Easy Way Around the Beaches and Downtown

To subscribe: Please call Donna Condon at 941-366-3468, Ext. 301, or email dcondon@yourobserver.com.

Canada One year / $250 Six months / $200 Three months / $160

Hop on, kick back and enjoy a scenic cruise. Then hop off to relax on beautiful beaches or explore the Bradenton Riverwalk, museums, galleries and more. It’s the fun and easy way to get around the beaches and downtown.

PUBLIC NOTICES The Sarasota/Siesta Key, East County and Longboat Observers meet the legal requirements to publish legal and public notices in Sarasota & Manatee counties, per F.S. 50.011.

AUDITOR INFORMATION

Now Running!

Verified Audit 1101 Fifth Ave., Suite 270 | San Rafael, CA 94901 (415) 461-6006 | www.verifiedaudit.com

Friday, Saturday and Sundays 9 am - 9 pm

LIKE US

www.facebook.com/ObserverGroup

FOLLOW US

Scan for Stops and Schedule or Visit:

www.instagram.com/observergroup

GulfIslandFerry.com

WATCH US

www.youtube.com/user/YourObserverVideo https://twitter.com/observergroup

411370-1

FOLLOW US

414800-1

MAIL DELIVERY SUBSCRIPTION RATES Standard First-Class One year / $95 One year / $200 Six months / $76 Six months / $160 Three months / $61 Three months / $128

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

5A

ACCESSIBLE RIDERSHIP Breeze also has a transportation disadvantaged program where eligible riders can use the OnDemand service for a discounted rate of $1.50.

Riders must first submit an application for the program.

The first eligibility requirement is that the household does not have any other means of transportation. Beyond that, applicants must fall under one of three categories: have a doctor-certified disability falling under the Americans with Disabilities Act, be 65 years of age or older or qualify as lowincome.

Visit ScGov.net/­ Government/Breeze-Transit.

Courtesy image

grown exponentially.”

Within the past year, OnDemand ridership has increased by 96%, according to a memo to the Sarasota County commissioners.

Up to four people can share one OnDemand vehicle, and riders are able to schedule a handicap-accessible vehicle. Grogg also said that the service has an average pickup time of about 20 minutes.

BEHIND THE SCENES

Tipton said Longboat Key has been trying hard to strengthen relationships with both counties.

“When you are working with other agencies, it’s all about relationships,” Tipton said.

The joint meetings the town had

“We’re very excited about this expansion and building our ridership. We’re providing a way to improve access for transportation while potentially alleviating traffic by people sharing trips.”

— Jane Grogg, Sarasota County director of transit

with both counties at the end of 2023 were helpful in talking about

the problems and the potential solution, he said.

“It was helpful in that meeting to be able to share the logistics of just trying to get around,” Tipton said. “I think that conversation really helped to build some momentum and push it to the finish line.”

The agreement struck between Manatee and Sarasota counties allows for the OnDemand service to extend into the north end of Longboat Key at Manatee County’s expense. It will cost Manatee County $30.67 per trip that begins or ends in the Manatee County portion of Longboat Key. Currently, Manatee County operates a Longboat Key shuttle that costs around $200,000 to $250,000

a year. At the Oct. 31 joint meeting between Longboat Key and Manatee County, Manatee County Public Works Director Chad Butzow said that cost includes driver salary and department expenses.

With the expansion of OnDemand, Manatee County would no longer operate the shuttle.

Grogg said that the county has been working with the vendor that provides the OnDemand software to give it the new map and implement it into the service.

The second part of preparations for the Jan. 29 rollout date includes public announcements, and Grogg said her department is on track to meet that date.

Sarasota County’s OnDemand service debuted in 2021.

Duette® Honeycomb Shades Operating System PowerView® Automation

BLINDS•SHUTTERS DRAPERIES•WALLCOVERINGS heraldtribune.com

WINNER

941-925-7800 mmwallcoveringsblinds.com

Dr. Shanaka Weerasooriya, DMD & Dr. Mitchell Strumpf, DDS

4801 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota Across from The Landings

Janet and Curt Mattson Owners

have been serving the Sarasota community for decades.

With life-long commitments to continuing education, both Dr. Shanaka & Dr. Strumpf use the latest advancements in dentistry to help their patients achieve beautiful, healthy smiles.

VACATION RENTALS

LONGBOAT KEY • LIDO KEY • ST. ARMAND’S

941-879-9300

HOLIDAY SPECIALS! $1,000 OFF SureSmile Clear Orthodontic Aligners $100 OFF At-home Opalescence Whitening with Custom Trays $89 Smile Perfected 20-Minute In-Office Whitening

FGCVacationRentals.com

Call for an appointment with Dr. Shanaka or Dr. Strumpf to craft a smile to be proud of today!

✓ Monthly Furnished Island Rentals ✓ Luxury Hospitality Services ✓ Personable and Reliable Katie Benninghove

or book online,

tarponshoresdental.com

412879-1

Rick Benninghove

941-233-8003 414223-1

416981-1

Wallcoverings & Blinds, Inc. Since 1989

6A

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

Lease and funding in place for Whitney Plaza Community Center Classes and course offerings at the new center are still to be determined.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

Manatee County executed the lease of the property on Jan. 3, pending the Jan. 9 approval.

The plans for the space include 6,140 square feet of the property located at 6810 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

The plaza, known as Whitney Beach Plaza, is owned by Porter Investment Holdings LLC. The lease is good for four years, beginning on the effective date, and includes terms for renewal if the county chooses to do so.

Also in the lease is a right of first refusal for the tenant, Manatee County, to install a boat dock and ramp compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. “If Premises is chosen as a Manatee County Water Taxi destination, Tenant will install and warrant an ADA-compliant boat dock and ramp to accommodate (a) 75-foot boat, with all necessary lighting, permitting and safety precautions,” the lease reads.

Although talks of a ramp for the Gulf Islands Ferry have been informal, the local neighborhood group Longboat Key North has expressed that the 27 homeowners and condo associations on the north end of the island oppose the idea.

The monthly payment for the lease is $11,256.67 and will be paid for by the county.

The lease permits the county to operate “for governmental purposes, and/or as a Center for Classes operated by the School Board of Manatee County.”

That being said, the second component approved at the county’s Jan. 9 meeting was an interlocal agreement between the county and the School District of Manatee County.

Through this agreement, Manatee Technical College will be primarily responsible for operating the space under the direction of Paul Gansemer, executive director for the Adult, Career and Technical Education department.

The “Center for Classes” outlined in the interlocal agreement looks to provide “fee-based adult enrich-

Carter Weinhofer

The Whitney Plaza Community Center would be located at 6810 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

“I’m excited for the businesses that are there, because this is really a nice pro-business move by ­leasing this space.”

— Howard Tipton, town manager

ment classes for residents of Manatee County.”

To Tipton’s knowledge, though, classes and events at the community center would be open to all residents and visitors, not just those residing in Manatee County.

Previous conversations in community input sessions and at previous commission meetings showed residents’ interest in classes but also other uses for the space, such as meeting space for community

groups and art studio space.

Gansemer said the classes will be determined by people’s subject matter interest and there may be an opportunity for residents to teach certain classes.

The interlocal agreement was signed on Dec. 15 and was awaiting final approval during the Jan. 9 meeting.

The third item approved at the meeting was the funding for the space.

Rent for the first year was included in the budget item, which totals $135,080.

An additional $1.2 million was approved, an amount needed for a complete remodel of the space. This was first brought up by the county’s Property Acquisition Division Manager Charles Meador at an Oct. 31 joint meeting between the county and town.

Talks about this project began back in 2021 when current co-chair

of Longboat Key North Maureen Merrigan was serving on the Town Commission.

Merrigan discussed the opportunity and community desire for the space with Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge, during which time they identified the space at Whitney Beach Plaza.

Former Longboat Key Town Manager Tom Harmer and former Manatee County Administrator Scott Hopes picked up those conversations, and a lease was ready to go according to Merrigan.

But in February 2023, Hopes left his position and Harmer was to be replaced by Tipton. The shuffling of staff was suspected to have caused a pause in discussion about the space.

Merrigan continued to press the desire for the community space in email correspondence with Van Ostenbridge, and eventually it was picked up again later in 2023.

Mitral Valve Repair Breast Cancer Survivor

Knee Replacement

If you’re wondering what a gift to the Healthcare Foundation can do,

Look around you.

Community support helps ensure Sarasota Memorial maintains its rank

Together we strengthen healthcare.

941.917.1286 | smhf.org

as one of the nation’s top hospitals— so you can enjoy the life you love.

Give Today.

414815-1

T

he Whitney Plaza Community Center recently received a hat trick of approvals.

Years in the making, the community center finally took a major step forward after the Manatee County Commission approved the lease, interlocal agreement and funding.

The three key components were all approved in the commission consent agenda during its Jan. 9 regular meeting. County commissioners approved the consent agenda unanimously, and the Whitney Plaza items were not pulled for further discussion.

Having all three items on the same agenda was a “pleasant surprise,” said Town Manager Howard Tipton.

It was like a belated Christmas gift.

“It was outstanding that they were able to come together and get that done,” Tipton said.

Beyond what the community center will provide in terms of service, Tipton said he’s looking forward to seeing how the community center will add to the synergy of the plaza.

“I’m excited for the businesses that are there, because this is really a nice pro-business move by leasing this space,” Tipton said.

Residents and visitors who choose to take courses in the plaza are within walking distance of the restaurants, fitness centers and shops that are all in the plaza.

Next, Tipton said the county and school district are working on a survey to be sent out to residents. The survey will seek to reaffirm what residents are hoping the space will provide, and will include some ideas talked about at the last community input session last summer.

CENTER SPECIFICS

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

7A

READY TO MOVE BEYOND YOUR EXPECTATIONS?

Look No Further 4651 Gulf of Mexico Drive #402 Jo Rutstein & Hilary Souza

$7,100,000 941.587.9156

THE GULF COAST LUXURY LEADER

Scan below for a full list of Open Houses, property details, driving directions and more

LIDO BEACH 423 South Polk Drive Joel Schemmel

$5,595,000 941.587.4894

LONGBOAT KEY CLUB 3491 Bayou Sound Shellie Young

BLVD SARASOTA 540 North Tamiami Trail #1503 Joel Schemmel

ANNA MARIA BEACH $4,980,000 941.587.4894

SARASOTA BAYFRONT 340 South Palm Avenue #33 Joel Schemmel

$2,470,000 941.587.4894

DOWNTOWN SARASOTA 800 North Tamiami Trail #801 Peter Laughlin

BAYSO

$5,300,000 941.713.5458

$1,495,000 941.356.8428

115 Palmetto Avenue Sharon Meier

BAYSO

2808 Avenue East #A Joel Schemmel

LIDO BEACH $3,480,000 941.587.4894

2050 Benjamin Franklin Drive #B603 Jo Rutstein & Hilary Souza

THE MARK SARASOTA $2,250,000 312.636.5153

111 South Pineapple Avenue #920 Carmen Baskind & Marty Warren

$1,385,000 941.302.4256

800 North Tamiami Trail #301 Peter Laughlin

RIGBYS SUB 1022 South Osprey Avenue Keith & Sharon Whitfield

$6,500,000 941.447.4875

HOLMES BEACH

$4,100,000 407.927.5669

301 Quay Commons #1409 Gregg Center

301 Quay Commons #PH 1904 Laura Stavola

$2,900,000 941.587.9156

THE POINTE AT MARINERS COVE

$1,680,000 941.724.1854

4102 Marina Court #612 Kevin Milner

$1,150,000 941.356.8428

3850 Mariners Walk #712 Kevin Milner

ALINARI

$1,500,000 41.539.3287

MARINER’S COVE $1,150,000 41.539.3287

NOW ACCEP TING RESERVATIONS

THE NEXT EVOLUTION OF LUXURY BEGINS

Introducing 78 Grand New Residences on Sarasota’s Bayfront Presentation Gallery Now Open at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota 1111 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Sarasota, Florida 34236 941.499.8704 | TheResidencesSarasotaBay.com

PRESENTED BY

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Bay are not owned, developed or sold by Marriott International, Inc. or its affiliates (“Ritz-Carlton”). KT Sarasota South, LLC uses The Ritz-Carlton marks under a license from Ritz-Carlton, which has not confirmed the accuracy of any of the statements or representations made herein. Broker Participation Welcomed and Encouraged. ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE SELLER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS BROCHURE AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A SELLER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. This project has been filed in the state of Florida and no other state. This is not an offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy the condominium units in states where such offer or solicitation cannot be made. Prices and availability are subject to change at any time without notice. Images are artist’s renderings and may not represent the final building. Furnishings and fixtures are for display purposes and are not included with the residence. Actual improvements, including, recreational facilities and amenities, may vary from those shown and views may not be available from all units.

BROKERAGE | RENTALS | RELOCATION | NEW DEVELOPMENT MORTGAGE | INSURANCE | FINE ART CONSIGNMENT

PremierSIR.com VENICE | 941.412.3323

LAKEWOOD RANCH | 941.907.9541

LONGBOAT KEY | 941.383.2500

RENTALS | 941.203.3433

Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Property information herein is derived from various sources including,but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate. Source: BrokerMetrics®.

418267-1

SARASOTA - DOWNTOWN | 941.364.4000

8A

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

OPINION / OUR VIEW

LONGBOAT

Growth spawns prosperity Anyone who lives in Florida, full or part time, and thinks he or she has the right to keep others from having what you have is delusional. Don’t like it? Go back to New Jersey.

“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

MATT WALSH

T

hey oppose the proposed Obsidian on Palm Avenue in downtown Sarasota. A Planning Board member says it doesn’t “feel” right. Residents complain it will be too tall.

They oppose 1,200 residential units and mixed use on the site of the eyesore Sarasota Square Mall.

They say it will generate too much traffic.

They adamantly oppose hotels being built in Siesta Key Village.

The Village is already overcrowded, say the opponents.

They don’t want any more bars on Main Street or its adjacent streets. The nighttime noise is too much for the people who bought condos next to the city’s longtime nightclub and bar hub.

Same old, same old.

For 100 years, the Florida story has been the same: It’s growing in population and typically, growing faster than most other states. And once the Northerners move here, they want to use the law and ordinances to stop other people from moving in next to them.

Hello? Anyone who moves here with the expectation that the spit of sand you bought was going to be immune from the effects of population growth is, well, delusional.

This is reality: Traffic will continue to increase; more development is going to occur.

But here is their “but”: “But we need to control the growth.”

That is, all of the NIMBYs want their local governments to adopt more obstacles and must-do’s to make it more difficult and more expensive so as to scare away development or restrict the number of units that can be built.

How has that strategy worked?

Just look at Sarasota. The downtown, waterfront condos look magnificent. But they are affordable for the wealthy few.

The price of housing for the working classes even in many of the older, interior single-family neighborhoods is so high that middleclass working families essentially are poor. They’re living paycheck

File images

Sarasota Square Mall

to paycheck, always struggling and stressed over how they will avoid falling into a financial abyss. One health care catastrophe away.

What’s more, baby boomers know well that high city housing costs drive working people to the suburbs and far away places (e.g.

North Port, Parrish) that are less expensive, but require driving long distances to work, creating more traffic, spewing more emissions from the cars and spending less time with their families.

It’s difficult for people to realize it, but over the past decade there has been a change among Florida developers. Prior to submitting plans at City Hall, they are now meeting with neighbors to gauge what would fit and be feasible. They are more amenable to neighborhood input than in the past.

But at the same time, neighborhood residents should keep property rights in mind — the notion everyone has the right to put his or her property to his or her benefit so long as that does not harm his neighbor. Likewise, every developer is also expected to conform to a jurisdiction’s codes.

It’s not a matter of whether a proposed development “feels” out of step with people’s tastes and wishes; it’s a question of whether it conforms to a jurisdiction’s written rules (which also shall not be so burdensome as to deny an owner the benefits of what he owns).

So to the opponents of the Obsidian: If it’s not the Obsidian, there will be a development there one day. And you can be sure it will be taller than the Bay Plaza condos.

You can either go with the Obsidian, a signature architectural landmark, or, be assured, an ordinary rectangular box will arise — and likely be a forever disappointment.

To the opponents of the 1,200 residential apartments and mixed use at Sarasota Square Mall: All across America, developers are

converting eyesore, vacant malls into attractive, beneficial mixeduse developments.

Study after study and report after report have shown that such developments, which often include parks and recreational space, generate less traffic than a shopping mall (where cars and trucks are going in and out at least 14 hours a day).

What’s more, the new mixed-use developments turn a deteriorating drag on surrounding properties into rising property values for the surrounding neighborhoods.

Back in 2010, when the Longboat Key Club and Resort’s owners proposed a $400 million expansion, economist Hank Fishkind presented to the Town Commission multiple examples of how successful commercial and residential developments enhanced surrounding property values to a greater extent than prior to their development.

Now think of your own case and where you live. You chose your residence because of the pleasure and utility it would bring you — presumably better than, say, living in the hell of Taxachusetts or New Jersey. You came here and, presumably, have contributed positively — creating jobs, helping a business serve its customers, volunteering to help the less fortunate.

Should elected rulers have rejected the company that developed your former scrub land into a neighborhood? Should that developer have been denied improving the value of his property and constructing homes for you and others to enjoy?

If the Obsidian is denied, who is to say there would not be a tragic loss — say, the denial of residence for a couple that in time would contribute $50 million, $100 million for the benefit of Sarasota?

If the Sarasota Square apartments are denied, who is to say we would not have gained a valuable nurse, police officer or teacher, all

The upper floors of Obsidian would offer bayfront views to the east and downtown views to the west.

of whose lives, presumably, would improve while they simultaneously contribute to the betterment of where we live? A thriving middle class is essential to an economically and socially vibrant community.

So many Florida residents — in fact, it’s true all over the United States — refuse to accept the economic and social truth that British economist Sir William Petty concluded after studying London’s population growth in the 1660s: “Fewness of population is real poverty.” Or, conversely, population growth is essential to the flourishing of prosperity.

There are two simple solutions to these debates over development and housing affordability.

■ If you don’t want the Obsidian or a mixed-use development Sarasota Square Mall, the easiest solution of all is this: Buy the property.

Own it yourself and keep it vacant.

■ To solve the seemingly intractable problem of housing affordability, it’s Econ 101: Supply and demand. At present, demand for urban and near-urban workforce housing far outstrips supply. Increase supply, and cost will come down. Voila!

MORE OPINION ■ Water taxi for Longboat’s Whitney Plaza? No way ■ Vaccine deaths higher than COVID deaths See: YourObserver.com/news/ opinion

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; Lexi Huelsman, Lexi@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 / Anna Reich, AReich@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

Selby Gardens: A vision comes to life; a shinier gem This is a wonderful story — a story of what people who love their community can do when they commit to a worthy cause.

This is the story of what is now the new, magnificent Marie Selby Botanical Gardens — Sarasota’s Living Museum.

Two decades ago, Selby Gardens was in agonizing turmoil. Yours truly described it this way in our sister paper, the Business Observer in mid-2004: “Nearly a year has passed since the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens encountered what one of its former board members described as ‘the Perfect Storm,’ a year-long internal tsunami that blew a path of destruction through the not-forprofit organization …

“Eight board members quit in a span of 10 months between the end of 2002 and October 2003. A year ago, the board fired its popular and internationally known executive director, Meg Lowman. A month later its chief operating officer quit. At least four key staff people left around the same time. Large donors and former board members pulled nearly $400,000 in pledges.

And after the federal government indicted the gardens for its han-

Matt Walsh

The new Selby Gardens welcome center, right, and research building, back left.

dling last summer of a rare orchid smuggled into the country from Peru, Selby in April pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor crime under the Endangered Species Act, paying a $5,000 fine and submitting to three years’ probation.”

On top of all that, Selby’s financial condition also had been on a downward trajectory — four consecutive years of operating losses in the mid-1990s and losses again during the orchid turmoil.

Those who remember this saga will recall how badly it tarnished this beloved institution.

But leaders rallied. Then board

chair, Barbara Hansen of Longboat Key; board members Michael Saunders and Marty Cooper; and a blue-ribbon CEO search committee of Kumar Mahadevan, CEO of Mote Marine; Debra Jacobs, then CEO of William G. and Marie Selby Foundation; Wilma Hamilton, former superintendent of the Sarasota County School District; and Alex Quarles, chief executive officer of the Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation became determined to resurrect the gardens.

They began the long climb back.

“It was time, energy, determination and grit, but most importantly, the

right board of directors,” Saunders told us.

You could say exactly the same about the past 20 years with each succeeding board — scrambling to avoid defaulting on loans and meet payroll; bringing back donors; ultimately hiring Jennifer Rominiecki, Selby’s dogged, determined CEO; and executing a vision of what Selby Gardens can and should be.

The opening last week of the first phase of the Gardens’ $92 million master plan was a monumental culmination. It’s a magnificent addition.

Going back to those dark days, not only did the organization have its problems, half of the gardens’ facilities were forlorn and unworthy of the gardens’ treasures and potential.

But when you tour the new facilities and think about the neighbors’ forceful opposition to Selby’s expansion, you can easily see the tremendous value added to the gardens, its prestige, the neighborhood and Greater Sarasota.

Perhaps presumptuous to say, but Marie Selby surely is beaming from above. Congratulations to all involved over the past 20 years.

— MW

Observer Media Group Inc. is locally owned.

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

CEO / Matt Walsh President / Emily Walsh Chairman Emeritus / David Beliles Vice President / Lisa Walsh (1995-2023) 1970 Main St. Sarasota, FL 34236 941-366-3468

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

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

9A

Brian Kolsea shows the group equipment from the ambulance.

Photos by Carter Weinhofer

Ruthie Ball, 7, tests the power of the water hose.

Hands-on field trip A Longboat parents group spends the morning at Fire Station 92 for a special tour.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

A

children’s trip to tour a firehouse is rare on Longboat Key. But on Jan. 15, members of the “Longboat Key Moms (& Dads)” Facebook group met at the Longboat Key Fire Station 92 to spend the morning of Martin Luther King Jr. Day meeting the crew.

A group of about 20 showed up, with eight kids in attendance. They ranged from a couple months to sev-

eral years old.

Lt. Jose Rivera and FirefighterParamedic Brian Kolsea led most of the tour, which began right as a medical call was dispatched for other crew members to attend to.

Kolsea shared with the group that he grew up on Longboat, living on the island for most of his early childhood.

First, the two took the group inside the newer fire station. Opened in 2021, the station was designed by Sweet Sparkman Architects. It was nominated for a People’s Choice Award from the Florida Foundation for Architecture in 2023.

The children and their parents admired the station, specifically the fully equipped kitchen and weight room.

Outside, the firefighter-paramedics showed an ambulance and all of the medical equipment inside. An interesting feature, Kolsea explained, was one of the medical packs that has equipment all tailored for specific age groups — needles and tubes sized appropriately for each age range.

Also parked in the garage was the department’s high-water vehicle. This allows the department to respond to calls during flood events, something Kolsea said they’ve used several times in the last six months.

Then came the kids’ favorite part: the fire truck.

Kolsea and the crew showed kids the department’s new, electricpowered Jaws of Life, deployed the truck’s 75-foot ladder and let everyone take turns using the hose.

Firefighters deploy the fire truck’s 75-foot ladder.

Despite a light drizzle, the families made the most of the morning field trip.

“This was great, this was a nice turnout,” said Elise Kidd Slansky.

Kidd Slansky is the mother of 16-month-old Blaire and runs the Facebook group.

With the group, she hopes to get a similar trip planned for the police station, as well as continuing to attend the Pop-Up Library events

every first and third Tuesday of the month.

Morgan Bellante is from Sarasota, but heard of the group through a mutual friend. She said it’s been a great resource to connect with others trying to find things to do with kids.

“It’s cool to have a community of moms and dads in the area, and to be included in things like this,” Bellante said.

NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! UN

DE

RC ON

STR U

CU STO M

CTI O

ME

N

WEST OF TRAIL DEEPWATER UN

HO

400 FEET OF BEACHFRONT | LONGBOAT KEY HOME

DE

RC ON

$6,

STR U

995

CTI O

N

100 FEET OF BEACHFRONT | LONGBOAT KEY HOME

,00 0

LIDO SHORES | MOVE-IN IN 3 MONTHS | PRIVATE BEACH

WHERE LUXURY HOME BUILDING MEETS CONCIERGE SERVICE WEST OF TRAIL & BARRIER ISLANDS

Seaward-Homes.com | 941-388-2021 | License Number CBC1253416

400202-1

PREMIUM CUSTOM HOME BUILDER

10A

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

We’re Ce leb rati n g 85 Years!

Co me Get

WI LD

The Longboat Key 2024 Citizen Satisfaction Survey includes questions about EMS and Fire Rescue.

With Us

File image

Annual town survey is out now JAMES PETER MANAGING EDITOR

T

he town of Longboat Key’s fifth annual citizen satisfaction survey began arriving in homeowners’ mailboxes last week.

Owners were sent unique identifier codes along with instructions allowing them to complete the town’s survey online.

The John Scott Dailey Florida Institute of Government at the University of South Florida is administering the survey, which consists of approximately 50 questions and takes about 10-15 minutes to complete. These questions are designed to elicit residents’ opinions on town services, quality of life issues and town policy choices. Examples of survey topics include: The quality of town beaches, parks and town-owned amenities Town departmental services such as police, fire/EMS and Public Works What type of events should be available at the outdoor venue at the Town Center The answers to the survey questions are collected anonymously.

Owners can access the survey online from their home computer,

Limited-Time Special

$185 Family Annual Pass* (2 adults, 2 children ages 4-12, under 3 Free)

AVAILABLE JAN 1-31

MISSING SURVEY?

Any Longboat Key homeowners who haven’t received a letter in the mail containing a unique code by Jan. 18 are asked to call or text 941-281-4985. They will receive a response in 24-48 hours. Any other questions can be directed to Town Hall at 941316-1999.

iPad or phone, or they can visit Town Hall and utilize the kiosk located in the lobby. (Please bring the letter with your unique code.)

The results of the survey will give owners a chance to provide feedback and express opinions on services and policies to help the town’s leaders direct Longboat Key’s priorities.

The deadline for the online survey is Feb. 10, so the town can publish its final report on the results by the end of April or beginning of May. Town staff encourages survey participants to complete it sooner rather than later, so they don’t misplace their letters or forget.

Results from previous surveys can be viewed at LongboatKey.org/­ Residents/Citizen-Survey.

PARTY

*Restrictions apply.

ANCHORS AWEIGH!

PRESENTED BY:

For limited time, seize the opportunity to secure unlimited access for your entire family for just $185!

Whether you’re planning weekend escapes or days with furry friends, our Family Annual Pass ensures that the jungle is your personal playground throughout the year!

Get yours today at SarasotaJungleGardens.com!

Use promo code 85YEARS. Available 1/1/24 – 1/31/24.

Register today!

WWW.SARASOTACHAMBER.COM

418179-1

SarasotaJungleGardens.com • 941.355.5305

417988-1

Sarasota's Favorite Family Attraction®

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM POWEL CROSLEY ESTATE

YourObserver.com

11A

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

The Milestone Milestone Financial Financial Group Group At At Morgan Morgan Stanley Stanley Proudly Proudly Presents Presents The The Milestone Financial Group At Morgan Stanley Proudly Presents

Strategies T actics Alternatives Resources Strategies T actics Alternatives Resources Strategies T actics Alternatives Resources

2 0 2 4 2024

Tuesday, February 6, 2024 Tuesday, February 6, 2024 Tuesday, February 6, 2024 1:00 -- 5:00 pm 1:00 5:00 pm Ritz-Carlton1:00 | 1111 Ritz Carltonpm Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236 - 5:00

Seating is limited Seating is limited SeatiCALL ng isTODAY! limited

CALL941.714.7903 TODAY! CALL TODAY! 941.714.7903 The Investment Forum is for investors defined by the Securities and Exchange Commission 941.714.7903 Ritz-Carlton | 1111 Ritz Carlton Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236 T(SEC) he Investment Forum is for investors defined by and Exchange Commission as Qualified Purchasers (an individual withthe $5Securities Million or greater in investments).

Ritz-Carlton | 1111 Ritz Carlton Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236

The Investment Forum is for investors (an defined by thewith Securities and or Exchange Commission (SEC) as Qualified Purchasers individual $5 Million greater in investments).

(SEC) as Qualified Purchasers (an individual with $5 Million or greater in investments).

SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER: SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER: SPECIALMichael GUESTJ.SPEAKER: Stein Michael J. Stein Michael J. Stein

FEATURING: FEATURING: FEATURING: DanSuzuki Suzuki Dan Dan Suzuki

Strategies T T actics actics Alternative Alternative Resources Resources Strategies Strategies T actics Alternative Resources

2024 2024

Global Head of Deputy CIO, Global Head of Relations Deputy CIO, Morgan Stanley Government Richard Bernstein Advisors Global Head of Deputy CIO, Morgan Stanley Government Relations Richard Bernstein Advisors Morgan Stanley Government Relations Richard Bernstein Advisors Forum Topics To Include: Forum Topics To Include: Forum TopicsMarket To Include: • Timely Ideas for Today's Environment • •Timely Ideas for Today's Market Environment Differentiated Strategies in Private Markets •• Timely Ideas for Today's Market Environment Differentiated Strategies in Private Markets AlternativeStrategies InvestmentinInsights -Markets Hedge, Infrastructure, and Real Estate •• •Differentiated Private Alternative Investment Insights Hedge, Infrastructure, and Real Estate Family Dynamics and Continuity Planning •• •Alternative Investment Insights Hedge, Infrastructure, and Real Estate Family Dynamics and Continuity Planning Washington Outlook in an Election Year •• •Family Dynamics andinContinuity Planning Washington Outlook an Election Year • Washington Outlook in an Election Year Come learn what is happening in today's marketplace Come learn what is happening in today's marketplace Come learn is happening in today's marketplace Top what Strategists and Portfolio Managers from: Top Strategists and Portfolio Managers from: Top Strategists and Portfolio Managers from:

417848-1

Event courtesy of John Vita, Morgan Stanley Financial Advisor, with local office at 1401 Manatee Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205. The guest speakers are neither employees nor

affiliated with Morgan WealthStanley Management.

Opinions by theatguest their ownFL and do not necessarily reflect are those of Morgan Stanley.

Event courtesy of JohnStanley Vita, Morgan Financial Advisor,expressed with local office 1401 speakers Manatee are Ave solely W, Bradenton, 34205.

The guest speakers neither employees nor Individuals consult with Wealth their tax/legal advisors before making any tax/legal-related investment decisions as Morgan and its Financial Advisors not provide tax/ Morgan Stanley Management.

Opinions expressed by the guest speakers areBradenton, solely their and Stanley do not necessarily reflect thoseemployees ofdoMorgan Stanley.

Eventaffiliated courtesywith ofshould John Vita, Morgan Stanley Financial Advisor, with local office at 1401 Manatee Ave W, FLown 34205.

The guest speakers are neither nor legal advice.

There will be no their discussion of,advisors orOpinions distribution of written to, specific products or investments at this Alternative are Individuals should consult with tax/legal before making anymaterials tax/legal-related investment asand Morgan Stanley andpresentation. itsreflect Financial Advisors do Investments not provide tax/ affiliated with Morgan Stanley Wealth Management. expressed by the guest relating speakers are solelydecisions their own do not necessarily those of Morgan Stanley. speculative include a high degreeadvisors ofof,risk.

An investor lose all or arelating substantial amount of as his/her investment.

Alternative investments are appropriate only are for legal advice.

There will notax/legal discussion or before distribution ofcould written materials to, specific products or investments at its thisFinancial presentation.

Alternative Investments Individuals should and consult withbe their making any tax/legal-related investment decisions Morgan Stanley and Advisors do not provide tax/ qualified,There long-term investors whodegree areof,willing to forgo liquidity andmaterials put capital forspecific an indefinite period of time.

The at appropriateness of aAlternative particular orare strategy andwillinclude high of distribution risk.

An investor could lose allrelating orat arisk substantial amount of or his/her investment.

Alternative investments areinvestment appropriate only for legal speculative advice. be no adiscussion or of written to, products investments this presentation.

Investments will depend on an ainvestors investor’s individual circumstances and objectives. value andindefinite return of an invest-ment fluctuateinvestments with ofchanges market conditions.

This qualified, who are willing forgo liquidity and at risk for an period of time. Thewill appropriateness a particular investment or for strategy speculative andlong-term include high degree of risk.

Anto investor could loseput all capital orPrincipal a substantial amount of his/her investment.

Alternative are inappropriate only presentation isinvestors for purposes only is notand to beobjectives. considered arisk solicitation onand our return part with respect to the purchase or sale of any securities, investments, strategies will depend on aninformational investor’s individual Principal of of antime. invest-ment will fluctuate changes in market conditions.

This qualified, long-term who are willing tocircumstances forgoand liquidity and put capital at for value an indefinite period The appropriateness ofwith a particular investment or strategy or products that may be mentioned.

The organizations represented by the aspeakers provided support this Forum.

Investments andsecurities, services through Morgan presentation isinvestor’s for informational purposes only and and is not to be considered solicitation on ourfinancial part withinvest-ment respectfor to the or salechanges of any investments, strategies will depend on an individual circumstances objectives.

Principal value and return of an will purchase fluctuate with in marketoffered conditions.

This Stanley Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC6177937 1/24 or products may be mentioned.

The organizations represented speakers financial support this Forum.

Investments and services offered through Morgan presentation isSmith forthat informational purposes only and is not to be consideredby a the solicitation onprovided our part with respect to theforpurchase or sale of any securities, investments, strategies Stanleythat Smith LLC. Member SIPC. CRC6177937 or products mayBarney be mentioned.

The organizations represented by the speakers provided financial support for this Forum. Investments and services offered through Morgan 1/24 Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC6177937 1/24

417848-1 417849-1 417848-1

12A

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

Fee-free at the beach?

Commissioners defend open access to the beach amid plan to increase fees and expand paid parking in Sarasota.

ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER

S

ince his arrival as the city’s general manager of parking last February, Broxton Harvey has been on a mission to make the parking department financially self-sustaining.

He’s also been tasked to strike a balance among serving the parking needs of businesses, residents and visitors to downtown and St. Armands. With that in mind, Harvey presented findings from feedback from citizens and community groups to the City Commission at its Jan. 8 workshop.

When he first presented his parking plan to commissioners in August 2023, Harvey’s stated goal was to increase parking revenues by $3.5 million.

Following a directive to receive public input on his proposals, Harvey’s recommendations were largely well received by commissioners, but the plan to add metered parking to the currently 80 free spaces along Benjamin Franklin Boulevard sparked the most — and sometimes heated — debate.

In support of staff’s recommendations, Harvey cited feedback from St. Armands Circle Association surveys, a Downtown Sarasota Condominium Association presentation, Downtown Sarasota Enrichment Association surveys, a Downtown Improvement District presentation and general emails. Some recommendations can be implemented administratively by City Manager Marlon Brown while others will require ordinance changes by the City Commission. The recommendations include:

Extending parking enforcement hours to 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. beginning in February, pending City Commission approval.

Sunday parking enforcement beginning February, pending City Commission approval.

Expansion of downtown metered parking by 103 spaces pending a survey and revisited in 18 months.

Limiting free parking to two hours on North Boulevard of the Presidents at St. Armands Circle.

City to perform a survey and revisit in 18 months.

Reduce two-hour grace period in parking garages to one hour, pending City Commission approval.

Implement a gateless garage program by third quarter of fiscal year 2024.

Increase Centennial Park boat ramp parking fee to $10 for trailers and $5 for single vehicles, pending City Commission approval.

Increase appeals fee to $25 on

Photos by Andrew Warfield

Proposed changes to the city’s parking program include metered spaces on Ben Franklin Drive along Lido Beach. Those spaces are currently free of charge.

March 1, 2024, pending City Commission approval.

Increase citation fee by $10 on March 1, 2024, pending City Commission approval.

Implement EV charging station fee of $1 per hour, pending City Commission approval.

City Commission to approve credit card-only payment for on-street parking and continue to accept cash in garages.

Implement metered parking on Benjamin Franklin Boulevard at a charge of $1.50 per hour.

Parking Division General Manager Broxton Harvey is proposing gate-free entry and exit systems for city-owned parking garages such as this one at St. Armands Circle.

Commissioners appeared generally in agreement to all of those recommendations with the exception of the last.

Commissioner Jen AhearnKoch said open access to the beach remains the lone bastion of free family entertainment for Sarasota residents, and that adding the expense of metered parking along Benjamin Franklin Boulevard would pose an undue hardship if the 368 free parking spaces at the Lido Beach Pavilion are full. And taking public transportation, such as the Bay Runner, is not a viable option for many.

“Picture yourself with three little kids, beach chairs, a big basket of toys, the eight towels that you need, they’re 2 years old, 4 years old and 6 years old,” he said. “You’re not getting in a bus with all that stuff to come downtown to wait to take a trolley when it’s 90 degrees and you’ve got three little kids. It’s not going to happen. That’s the group that I’m looking after, not the group that has the luxury of just a towel and a book and going to the beach.”

“A couple of hours to pay for parking to go to the beach, that’s a hamburger and fries,” replied City Manager Marlon Brown.

“But it’s also $3,” countered Ahearn-Koch. “We need to be extremely mindful that the beach is

accessible to everyone and not just to those who have $3, and that can be a lot of money to a lot of families. I think that we just need to be mindful of that. It’s a really important point in our community that we are proud that our beach is accessible to everyone.”

Ahearn-Koch found an ally in Commissioner Erik Arroyo, who suggested a resident card or vehicle decal that would allow citizens to park free at on Benjamin Franklin Boulevard, acknowledging that administering such a program would carry its own costs.

“The median income in the United States is $39,318, and many of the individuals that we have here in Sarasota not only have a larger family and they’re working numerous jobs, but also many of them are on fixed incomes,” Arroyo said. “They’re retired and they’re living off of Social Security. They live in a million-dollar house that they bought for 10 cents, but they can’t afford to pay the taxes on a new house so they stay and they live there for the rest of their lives.

“There are certain arguments that I don’t think we think we should steer away from like, just because you pay for other things you could pay for this because those other things were increased on you as well.”

FEATURED DOCS

Sarasota Memorial Presents

FREE LECTURE SERIES February 2024

Robert Eckart, DO

Tomorrow Comes Today: Emerging Technologies in Advanced Cardiac Care At Sarasota Memorial, our award-winning cardiac care comes from physicians and surgeons dedicated to staying at the forefront of innovation in their field. During this free lecture series, hear directly from the doctors about how the latest in medical technology

Antonio Moretta, MD

and technique is changing the future of healthcare. A brief Q&A follows each presentation.

Thursday, February 1, 4:30-5:30pm

} Robert Eckart, DO, FACC, FHRS - Stroke Reduction in Atrial Fibrillation without Blood Thinners

Thursday, February 8, 4:30-5:30pm

} Antonio Moretta, MD, FHRS - New Technologies in Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation with Focus in PFA (Pulsed Field Ablation)

Brian P. Betensky, MD

Tuesday, February 13, 4:30-5:30pm

} Brian P. Betensky, MD, FACC, FHRS - Catheter Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation: Fundamentals, Trial Data and Emerging Technologies

Thursday, February 15, 4:30-5:30pm

} Daniel L. Molloy, MD - Interventional Cardiology: Sometimes Less is More

Wednesday, February 21, 4:30-5:30pm

Daniel L. Molloy, MD

} Ricardo A. Yaryura, MD, FACC - Aortic Valve Replacement with TAVR and Mitral Valve options with MitralClip and New Technology

SMH-SARASOTA

Sarasota Memorial Hospital Auditorium - First Floor 1700 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34239

Ricardo A. Yaryura, MD

Light refreshments served. Reserve your space by phone at (941) 917-7777 or online at smh.com/lectures.

smh.com

417973-1

This is a FREE LECTURE SERIES with FREE VALET PARKING at main hospital entrance. RSVP required.

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

13A

Natural Light... ... with a capital L.

Introducing downtown Sarasota’s newest water view community - an intimate enclave of 29 contemporary residences ranging from 2,263-3,076 square feet, with resort-inspired amenities and exquisite finishes. From $2.2-$4.65 million.

ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS MAKE REFERENCE TO THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. COMMUNITY FEATURES, AMENITIES AND PRICING APPROXIMATE AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

418720-1

941-210-0987 / owengoldengate.com

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

THE LONGBOAT KEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

2024

Courtesy image

Passenger traffic at SRQ increased by 3 million passengers from 2018 to 2023.

Savor Sounds Sou nds SRQ airport surpasses the Sounds or the Sav Savor 4.3 million passengers Musical Series Concert

Presented by

MARK GORDON BUSINESS OBSERVER

S

arasota-Bradenton International Airport officials have released 2023 year-end passenger traffic data, and, unsurprisingly to anyone who has flown in and out of SRQ, it’s been busy.

The airport, according to a statement, had 4.3 million passengers in 2023. That’s up 12% over 2022, when it had 3.87 million passengers.

In December, the airport, known locally by its SRQ call letters, had 406,113 passengers. That’s up 7.5% over December, 2022, when it had 377,775 passengers.

More growth nuggets include: Airport traffic is up 215% since 2018, when it had 1.3 million passengers. Airlines that serve SRQ have expanded from six to 11 since 2018. Nonstop destinations have increased from five to 12.

“The record-breaking growth we have seen over the past five years has been phenomenal,” SRQ President and CEO Rick Piccolo said in a statement. “This significant growth has presented various challenges for management who have been dili-

Longboat Key • 2020 Saturday, January 27th

KETTLE of FISH

Saturday, February 17th

soulRcoaster

Saturday, March 16th

YESTERDAYZE

5:30 pm - 7 pm (Gates open at 4:30 pm) 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm MUSIC BY MIKE SALES Town Center Green - Karon Family Pavilion 600 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key

941.383.6493

Come out and “Savor the Sounds,” and enjoy an elegant, yet casual, outdoor picnic setting.

BYOPB! Bring a picnic basket and blanket.

Meditative Sound Bath Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2-3pm Immerse yourself in healing sounds to enter a deeply meditative state.

(Lawn chairs, tables and coolers are welcome.)

VIP Tickets

General Admission

$250 (Table of 8) Advance purchase only.

Limited availability.

gently working to meet the airport’s evolving needs. Over the past five years, several essential construction projects were successfully accomplished.”

That list includes expansion of the jet fuel storage facility, which tripled in size; the enlargement of the screening checkpoint by 33%; and the creation of additional parking lots.

The airport is undertaking several projects, including constructing a new concourse with five additional aircraft gates, expanding the ground transportation area and adding new food and beverage concessions. A new five-gate terminal is projected to be completed by December and open to the public in January 2025.

While SRQ’s growth is notable to any passenger (or people dropping off or picking up visitors), two other airports in the region are bigger in terms of passenger traffic. Southwest Florida International Airport had 10.3 million passengers in 2022 and Tampa International Airport had 21.53 million, according to airport blog Simple Flying. Both Orlando International and Miami International had more than 50 million passengers in 2022.

546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key TheParadiseCenter.org

Relax Renew Restore

$25 in advance $35 at the door

$40 ($25 for members) 31 1-2

Weather permitting - No Refunds

[$20, $10 for members]

Important Seminar!

How to AVOID Investment SCAMS Friday, January 26th ~ 2-3pm

ADVANCE TICKET SALES Monday - Friday from 9 am to 5 pm Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce 5390 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Longboat Key, Suite 102

Presented by Lisa Trueba Roberts with the Miami office of Securities and Exchange Commission. Topics include what to look for, who to call and what the SEC does to protect investors. FREE! Call if you have questions & to RSVP! 941-383-6493

Look for our NEWSLETTER in today’s Observer!

For a schedule of our weekly classes visit: TheParadiseCenter.org/ongoing-classes Call each practice directly for appointments in our Medical Suite:

Daren Spinelle, MD ~ Longboat Key Physicians Primary Care (941)225-2258 Michael Foss, DO Luminary Dermatology (941)926-6553

Home Watch Services ~ Concierge Services ~ Key In Vendor Services

Kelly Breese, Au.D. Doc Side Audiology (941)366-2240

Rhett Bogacz, DC Bee Ridge Chiropractic (941)210-3637

941-915-1248

For tickets or information, please contact The Chamber at (941) 383-2466.

540-546 Bay Isles Road Longboat Key TidewellFoundation.org 941.552.7546

418781-1

www.whcsarasota.com

418789-1

14A

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

15A

ARTIST CONCEPTUAL RENDERINGS

LUXURY LIVING for those seeking the EXCEPTIONAL THE N EW O N E PA RK SA RASOTA One Park residences was imagined as more than just a luxury home; it was designed to inspire every resident with incredible panoramic views, sophisticated design, impeccable finishes, and artisanal quality craftsmanship. Sarasota’s new standard of luxury living has arrived.

941 232 7035 • OneParkSarasota.com Sales Gallery: 20 N Lemon Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236

418175-1

ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE SELLER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS BROCHURE AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A SELLER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. This project has been filed in the State of Florida and no other state. This is not an offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy the condominium units in states where such offer or solicitation cannot be made. Prices, square footage and availability are subject to change at any time without notice. This is a limited time offer. Developer may withdraw offering at any time. Coldwell Banker® is a registered licensed trademark. *Contact sales associate for further details.

Equal Housing Opportunity.

16A

YourObserver.com

WILD FLORIDA

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

Birds count on Myakka habitat

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

An annual citizen science event tallies 14,386 individual birds on one day in one area of Myakka River State Park.

MIRI HARDY CONTRIBUTOR

O

n Dec. 18, 2023, 50 participants gathered for the annual Myakka River Bird Count. The count took place in a 15-mile-wide circle, within which all birds seen or heard were tallied.

Despite winds so strong they created white caps on Lower Myakka Lake, a total of 14,386 individual birds were counted. And an impressive 124 species were identified, including a new record — a single house finch.

The National Audubon Christmas Bird Count, now in its 124th year, is one of the longest running citizen science events in the world. It was first held in 1900 as an alternative to traditional Christmas “side hunts,” where teams competed to see who could shoot the most birds.

Conservationists, recognizing these hunts were devastating bird populations, proposed an alternative — counting, rather than shooting, the birds.

From CBC records, scientists can draw insights about the abundance of species, and how their ranges are shifting year to year and decade to decade. As 3 billion birds — one in four breeding birds — have disappeared from the U.S. and Canada in the last 50 years, such insights can inform critical conservation action required to protect birds and the habitats they need to survive.

The Myakka River CBC, now in its 77th year, helps illustrate the park’s growing importance to birds.

For example, consider the case of roseate spoonbills, a favorite with park visitors and a state-threatened

Miri Hardy

Roseate spoonbills feed by wading in shallow water and sweeping their unique bill from side to side. Spoonbills are sensitive to shifts in water depth.

species. Thirty years ago, 90% of Florida’s roseate spoonbills nested in Florida Bay and the coastal Everglades. In the early 1980s, the first spoonbills started moving north to find new habitats, due to deteriorating conditions resulting from development. Rising sea levels, which impact their ability to feed, and climate change have dramatically shifted this species’ range north.

Of note, a few spoonbills were first recorded during the 1979 Myakka River CBC. And over the past two decades, their annual counts have grown.

This year, due to seasonally dry conditions, low water levels in the park created extensive shoreline and shallows — perfect habitat conditions not only for 145 roseate spoonbills, but also for countless other wading birds and waterfowl. They were counted too!

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

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

BEST IN THE WEST: Herman is living his best life at Islands West on Longboat Key.

Your Luxury Lifestyle Awaits Member SIPC

FURNISHED MODEL HOME WITH LEASEBACK

THE WINDEMERE

THE ISLANDER

1550 S Orange Ave, Sarasota, FL 34239

558 Venice Ln, Sarasota, FL 34242

4,189 Sq. Ft. | 4 Bed | 4.5 Bath | 3 Car Garage Study | Media Room | Pool and Spa

4,170 Sq. Ft. | 4 Bed | 4.5 Bath | 2 Car Garage Study | Media Room | Pool and Spa

MLS A4566256

MLS A4589732

$4,438,000

You deserve a financial advisor who listens We’re just around the corner.

SIESTA KEY WATERFRONT LOCATION

$4,985,000

Michelle K Johnson, CFP®, CEPA®, AAMS™ Financial Advisor

ANTICIPATED COMPLETION FALL 2024

THE SAND DOLLAR

118 N Warbler Ln, Sarasota, FL 34236

$7,250,000

4,594 Sq. Ft. | 4 Bed | 5.5 Bath | 3.5 Car Garage Study | VIP Suite | Bonus Room | Infinity Pool MLS A4557763

417791-1

595 Bay Isles Rd, Ste 260 Longboat Key, FL 34228 941-263-7821

ANTICIPATED COMPLETION FALL 2024

THE BAHAMA

> edwardjones.com

MKT-5894O-A AECSPAD

We’ve got you covered...

Offering Two Opportunities West of Trail 1625 Hansen St, Sarasota, FL 34231 2,642 Sq. Ft. | $1,898,000 * Rendering shown above

3934 Sunshine Ave, Sarasota, FL 34231 3,157 Sq. Ft | $2,589,000

Take Advantage of These Limited Opportunities

Plumbing

Heritage Builders is pleased to announce these five unique custom homes located in Sarasota’s most desirable neighborhoods. These striking residences feature the same cutting-edge layouts, luxurious appointments and superior construction quality that have made Heritage Builders Sarasota’s leading custom home designer and builder.

Pools

Air Conditioning

Specialty Services

Water Heaters

Please contact us today to learn more about these limited opportunities.

Custom Homes | West of Trail Homes | Waterfront Residences

Visit us at HeritageBuildersWFL.com or call (941) 328-8272

HB Realty Group, Inc. | Licensed Real Estate Broker

416773-1

All designs are the property of Heritage Builders of West Florida, LLC. CBC1259307 Plans, pricing and specifications subject to change without notice. Renderings are artist’s conception and not intended to show specific detailing. Square footages are estimated and may vary in actual construction.

415327-1

LIC #CFC1429635 • CPC1459826 • CAC 1818472

www.lapenseeplumbing.com 775.5622 • 401 Manatee Ave, Holmes Beach

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

17A

On coveted Lido Key. R EDEF INING THE SA R ASOTA LIFEST Y LE.

R E SI DE NCE SL I DOK EY.COM

ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. This project has been filed in the state of Florida and no other state. This is not an offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy the condominium units in states where such offer or solicitation cannot be made. Equal Housing Opportunity. Rosewood Residences Lido Key is owned and being developed, offered and sold by WSR—Lido Beach, LLC (“Developer”). The project is not owned, developed or sold by Rosewood Hotels and Resorts, L.L.C. or any of its affiliates (“Rosewood”). Developer uses the Rosewood marks pursuant to a license agreement with Rosewood, which may be terminated under certain conditions. Rosewood does not assume any responsibility or liability in connection with the condominium. Copyright 2024 © All Rights Reserved.

417803-1

Now Under Construction • From the $6 Millions • 941-888-3131

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

TRIBUTES

Make

William Kenneth (“Ken”) Morris

A Plan.

William Kenneth (“Ken”) Morris passed away on January 2, 2024, after a two-year struggle with idiopathic lung disease. Ken was a leading national retail consultant, one of the founding members of Cambridge Retail Advisors, and a board member of the Boston Main Streets Foundation.

Ken previously served as the founder and principal of Boston Retail Partners, the CEO and President of LakeWest Group, and the founder and CEO of Consumer Focus Technologies (CFT). Prior to founding CFT, Ken was a retail consultant at Deloitte & Touche and held various IT leadership positions at retailers including Filene’s and Lord and Taylor.

Ken was born and raised in Hyde Park, Massachusetts, and attended Boston Latin School and Boston University. Ken worked hard his entire life and passed away on the first official day of his retirement. Ken had a magnetic personality and quickly formed lifelong friendships with colleagues and clients who were inspired by his optimism and energy for new projects.

Ken was brilliant, creative, dynamic, collaborative, and open-minded.

He loved to golf, bike, and play tennis with family and friends. He also loved

It Makes a Difference.

Ken was brilliant, creative, dynamic, collaborative, and open-minded. taking out his children and grandchildren on his Boston Whaler to fish and explore different islands in Florida and Maine. He also loved working with his wife Adele to invest in and improve different real estate projects in Massachusetts, Maine, and Florida. We will remember his bright eyes and warm smile forever.

Ken is survived by his wife Adele Morris, his son Matthew Morris, his daughter Lillian Rees, and his grandchildren Soren Rees, Dorothy Rees, and William Morris. He is also survived by his sister Patricia Bowers, his nephew Stephen Morris, and Adele’s siblings, nieces, and nephews who loved him dearly.

A memorial service was held at the McNamara-Sparrell Funeral Home in Cohasset, Massachusetts on Friday, January 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m., followed by a mass at St. Anthony’s Church across the street at 10:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the Morris family requests that any donations be made in Ken’s name to the Boston Main Streets Foundation or the Audubon Society. Visit www.mcnamara-sparrell. com for guestbook.

418327-1

The Choice is Clear

Taking a few moments now can make a significant difference for your loved ones down the road. From removing the stress and financial burdens to fulfilling 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.

Clearview

SERVICES AND DOORS A Preferred Vendor With More Than 25 Luxury High Rise Properties Custom Sliding Screen Doors Manufactured in Sarasota Frame Refinishing

FUNERAL HOME, CREMATORY & PREARRANGEMENT CENTER

Sliding Glass and Screen Door Repairs Door Maintenance Plans Free Estimates

Retractable Screen Doors

SPECIAL OFFERS

25% OFF DOOR MAINTENANCE

ToaleBrothers.com | 94 1.955.4171

ENTER to WIN 1 custom screen door! ( up to $1000 value)

Locally owned and proudly serving the Sarasota area for over 15 years.

Proudly serving Sarasota, Bradenton and Venice since 1912.

941-993-4742 • clearviewservicessrq.com

414409-1

5750 Palmer Blvd. #3 • Sarasota, Florida 417115-1

18A

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

HOT TUB HAZARD 11:03 a.m., 600 block of St. Judes Drive Disturbance: An officer was dispatched to investigate a dispute involving a construction crew. At the scene, the officer saw the construction crew operating equipment to remove a large hot tub from a residence. But the equipment was blocking the roadway, thus disrupting traffic. Drivers expressed concern, and the officer spoke with the crew who said they would quickly finish up.

NO TURN AROUND 2:47 p.m., 800 Marbury Lane Disturbance: A civil disturbance prompted Longboat Key police response. Upon arrival, the officer spoke with the complainant who said she had an argument with a delivery driver about using her driveway to turn around. No threats were reported, and, after the officer spoke with both parties, he helped guide the delivery truck safely out of the neighborhood.

JUST NEEDED A JUMP 5:21 p.m., 2400 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Disabled Vehicle: An officer noticed a vehicle parked on the side of the road and pulled over to investigate.

The driver explained that his car had died, and, after lending a helping hand, the officer and driver were able to start the car.

THURSDAY, JAN. 11

MAYBE A BIT SHAKEN UP 9:07 a.m., 3100 block of Bayou Sound Animal Problem: A concerned citizen reported a raccoon jumping and appearing unwell. Upon arrival, the officer found the raccoon to have calmed down, but possibly injured. The raccoon left the location under its own free will, and the two went their separate ways.

WHERE TO NOW? 8:45 p.m., 600 block of Bay Isles Parkway Suspicious Vehicle: Longboat Key Police responded to a reported suspicious vehicle. The woman driving the van said she had just parked for a few minutes to decide where to drive next. The officer advised her that the park was only open until 11 p.m., to which she replied that she would be gone before then.

MONDAY, JAN. 8

Jump scare!

4:19 a.m., 7000 block of Firehouse Road Suspicious Person: While on patrol, an officer observed a man “jump out of the bushes” in this location.

The officer spoke with the man, who said he was on the phone with his brother because he is an overnight truck driver. He also wanted to mention that he likes coming to the beach at night.

ALMOST FAMOUS 4:40 p.m., 800 block of Penfield Street Suspicious Person: Dispatch was alerted to a report of two men standing on rocks on the beach because the caller was unclear if it was private or public property. Upon police arrival, an officer spoke with the two men who were standing near a vehicle parked on the road. One said that his friend was filming him playing guitar on the rocks for a music video because it had a great view of the bay. The officer stated that someone had called 911, and the two apologized for the confusion.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 10

ILLEGAL DOCK USAGE, NETS OK THOUGH 9 a.m., 100 block of Sand Point Road Suspicious Incident: A marine patrol officer spoke with the president of a condominium association about a suspicious incident. The president

LOST IN SAFE KEEPING 11:40 a.m., 5700 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Officer Public Service: Police were sent to a report of a missing bicycle.

While the officer was speaking with the complainant, another person returned the bike. She said she saw the bike out in the open and, due to the storm, moved it to a storage location after speaking with the management office.

St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church

WORSHIP

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

416955-1

directory

All are welcome at All Angels no exceptions

Longboat Key, FL 34228 941-383-1255 • www.stmarylbk.org

Rev. Robert Dziedziak, Pastor

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

• Worship services Sunday at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m.

• Live Stream the 10 a.m. service at AllAnglesLBK.org New to You Art Sale coming in February.

Bring us your used art in January.

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 416697-1

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

An Ecumenical Church that Welcomes all People Founded in 1956

said mullet fishermen were using seine nets on and around the private docks a couple days ago and had received the tip from a cellphone video.

He said he was unsure if the use of nets was illegal, but the dock was clearly labeled as private property.

The officer said the nets were legal, but using the dock was not. He also advised that the president should contact the police right away if this happens again in the future. Then the officer was able to contact the owner of the vessel and spoke to him about the complaint. The fisherman said one of them was on the dock for no more than a minute but that they were not aware it was a private dock.

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 416817-1

Follow us on Facebook • www.longboatislandchapel.org Wednesday Bible Study 10:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.

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

567 Bay Isles Rd, Longboat Key, FL

Growing in Jesus’ Name

941-383-3428

416968-1

FRIDAY, JAN. 5

19A

longboatkeytemple.org

Worship With Us at Our Church Sunday Service 10:00 AM Dr. Julia Wharff Piermont, Pastor Men’s Bible Study: Monday @ 9:00 Women’s Bible Study: Wednesday @ 10:00

Visitors & Residents Welcome Watch Our 10:00 AM Service Live: www.bit.ly/cclbksermons or www.christchurchof lbk.org (follow YouTube link)

“Gospel Shorthand: The Christian Journey in 13 Words” 3 - S U N DAY S E R M O N S E R I ES I N JA N UA RY

Sunday Worship

January 14, 21, and 28 • 10:00 AM

9am & 11am

Join us for Fellowship & Coffee Hour at 10am

5pm

417408-1

Contemporary Style Message • Communion

40 North Adams Drive, Sarasota, FL • 941.388.1234

Have you ever wished for a focused way to think about what it means to be Christian, or for a non-pushy way to talk about your faith with others?

Dr. Piermont has created “Gospel Shorthand: The Christian Journey in 13 Words” to address these needs. Each Sunday will reveal a few of the thirteen words, the key event in Scripture on which it is based, and the key way Christians respond to that event. Invite a friend!

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

418071-1

COPS CORNER

YourObserver.com

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

1325 WESTWAY DRIVE

$15,000,000

Modern marvel in Lido Shores! This waterfront tropical escape welcomes you with a hidden courtyard that connects the 3BR main home to the private 2BR guest house. Boasting all the amenities required for modern living, the inspired architecture highlights spectacular water views from every room of this home’s 6,500+ interior. www.1325Westway.com

ROGER SELLS LUXURY WATERFRONT PROPERTIES

97 SOUTH WASHINGTON DRIVE

$10,995,000

Situated on a double corner lot location, spanning more than a half-acre, this impressive 5BR residence is set among lush greenery on the deep waters of Sarasota Bay, just a few sunny steps from famed St. Armands Circle. www.97SouthWashington.com

5005 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #3

$10,995,000

A newer gem completed in 2020, this 5BR furnished beachfront home seamlessly blends modern innovation with the allure of West Indies-inspired architecture. Includes 5-car garage. Walk out to the beach in your backyard! www.BonaireLBK3.com

7652 SANDERLING ROAD

$9,995,000

This private custom estate, on over an acre of land with 172’ of beachfront, offers unobstructed views of the Gulf’s coastal landscape, complemented by a design specifically crafted to accentuate breathtaking beach and sunset panoramas. www.7652Sanderling.com

HUNTERS POINT

7180 MANASOTA KEY ROAD This gorgeous, updated 4BR beach home, with its inspired Key West style architecture offers stunning Gulf views and a resort-style experience. www.7180ManasotaKey.com

$3,895,000

1350 MAIN STREET #1701

455 LONGBOAT CLUB RD #305 Prepare to be captivated by Gulf and sunset views as soon as you enter this perfectly placed 3BR, direct beachfront Pierre residence. www.Pierre305.com

4337 MARINA VIEW WAY

4227 MARINA VIEW WAY

$1,799,000

$1,450,000

$2,499,000

3030 GRAND BAY BLVD #346

990 BLVD OF THE ARTS #603

$2,345,000

$2,375,000

$3,295,000

Relish the convenience of brandnew construction at this stunning 3BR waterfront residence. www.HuntersPointFL.com

4322 MARINA VIEW WAY

12511 GULF BREEZE TERRACE

Walk to the best that a downtown Sarasota lifestyle offers. This 2,300+ SF, 6th-floor residence welcomes you with sweeping bay and city views. www.BeauCiel603.com

$1,350,000

$1,350,000

3060 GRAND BAY BLVD #152

1105 GULF OF MEXICO DR #404

1826 HAWKINS COURT

6910 SCRUB JAY DRIVE

$1,495,000

$1,299,000

$1,100,000

$1,049,000

Panoramic direct views of the bay, golf course and downtown are the star of the show as soon as you enter this 3BR Antigua getaway. www.GrandBay346.com

201 N. WASHINGTON DRIVE

$2,195,000

Ready for you to design your dream home, this parcel is in an ideal walkable St. Armands location. www.201NorthWashington.com

You’ll love the contemporary updates, boating access and private beach club at this 4BR direct bayfront Corey’s Landing residence. www.3464MistletoeLane.com

The pinnacle of modern luxury living is found at this brand-new, 3BR, furnished waterfront home. www.HuntersPointFL.com

Move right into this newer downtown penthouse in the heart of the city! Includes 2 parking spaces and separate storage unit. www.1350Main1701.com

$2,495,000

3464 MISTLETOE LANE

This bayfront, 5th-floor Biscayne at Grand Bay offers 2,250 SF, and is ready for you to make your own. www.GrandBay152.com

Beautiful, expansive views of the Gulf are the perfect backdrop at this 3BR, 4th-floor residence. www.Beachplace5404.com

You will love the option of choosing your own finishing touches at this brand-new contemporary 3BR home! www.HuntersPointFL.com

This newer, charming 3BR West of the Trail residence is offered furnished and immediately ready to enjoy! www.1826HawkinsCourt.com

Sustainability marries perfectly with green living at this brand-new 3BR home in the heart of Cortez. www.HuntersPointFL.com

Move-in ready, this 4BR+family room home is the ideal blend of privacy and convenience. www.6910ScrubJay.com

1920 LAUREL STREET

1974 HYDE PARK STREET

2437 TEMPLE STREET

2039 GULF OF MEXICO DR #211

5631 MIDNIGHT PASS RD #1005

$995,000

$799,000

$749,000

$499,000

$389,000

Create your own city dream escape at this oversized parcel in Sarasota’ s historic district, walk to downtown. www.1920LaurelStreet.com

Explore the convenience of an ideal Southside Village lifestyle at this furnished, updated 2BR home. www.1974HydePark.com

Southern exposure in Arlington Park!

Updated 3BR home offers a blend of historic charm and modern comfort. www.2437TempleStreet.com

Step into this 2BR, furnished residence, where an abundance of natural light and lush views greet you. www.SeaplaceG3211.com

Bike to Siesta Key beach from this charmingly updated cottage. Boasting covered parking and lovely amenties. www.WhiteSandsVillage1005.com

CA L L TO DAY FO R YO U R EXC LU S I VE TO U R ( 9 41 ) 3 8 7-1 8 4 0 443 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. 417012-1

20A

Classifieds 18B Games 17B Real Estate 15B Weather 17B

JANUARY 18, 2024

YOUR NEIGHBORS

Journeys for all ages Longboater’s first book garners widespread acclaim with inspirational message for children and adults.

PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER

W

hen Barbara Mishkin’s grandson asked about a year ago what happened to a fictional boy named Tip from the childhood stories she used to tell him, she couldn’t imagine the journey she was about to start.

Inspired by stories her father told her as a child, Mishkin shared with her grandchildren the adventures of Tip as a way to pass on advice. Last year, her now grown-up grandchildren urged her to publish the stories of Tip in a book as a way to continue her life’s passion of inspiring people.

“TIP’s Magical Journey: The Ride of Discovery and Inspiration” is now an award-winning children’s book, which was released on Aug. 15, 2023.

It is available for purchase on Amazon and at Barnes and Noble. The book takes young readers on a captivating train ride filled with valuable life lessons. It follows an 8-year-old boy, Thaddeus Isaac Pendleton, as he meets characters from different

416671-1

Barbara Mishkin

countries and they share their wisdom with him.

“Tip is basically a family member at this point,” said Mishkin. “He has been such a vital part of my life and my children’s lives. I didn’t do it for the awards or to make money. I did it as a story of inspiration. I did it so my kids and family could have a legacy of seeing the type of person I am.”

Each character Tip meets was inspired by travels she took with her husband on his business trips or intriguing current events she read about. Mishkin said she made sure each lesson from these characters was easy for a child to understand and relate to in their lives.

“TIP’s Magical Journey” has won several awards from the National Parenting Center, including Winner of the Holiday 2023 Inclusion Report, Literary Titan, Readers’ Favorite Award and the Five-Star Readers’ Choice Award in the Autumn Book Awards. On Amazon, the book has received more than 20 five-star reviews.

“It’s a whole new world for me,” said Mishkin. “It is the most amazing opportunity and is reaching people I didn’t think it would reach. I got a picture from a girl in Israel reading the book. I have 80-year-old women who are reading the book and relating to it. So it is incredible to reach all these different audiences. Truly, a dream come true.”

Mishkin plans to publish four more books about Tip’s adventures with Wow! Publishing and Distribution.

She already sent in the first draft for her second book, “TIP’s Magical Birthday.” In this story, Tip’s father throws him a birthday party, inviting children from the neighborhood. Tip continues to learn life lessons and draw inspiration from the children.

As an artist herself, Mishkin loved working with illustrator Jason Shiver to bring her vision to life.

“I can’t do people in my art. That’s why I did not do that,” said Mishkin. “My illustrator and I went back and forth making sure everything was perfect, and I loved it. I never actually knew what Tip looked like, so it’s crazy to see him on the page.

I’m hoping that a little boy out there will read the book and say, ‘Hey, that looks like me.’”

Photos by Petra Rivera

THE INSPIRATION PROJECT

“TIP’s Magical Journey” is an extension of the nonprofit Mishkin started nine years ago in Pennsylvania, The Inspiration Project.

“It all started at Disney World, the most magical place on Earth,” said Mishkin. “I was at a crossroads at what I wanted to do next with my life; I was 70 years old. I woke up the next morning when I was in Orlando, and God gave me the name of the project and what I would be doing. I had never had an epiphany like that.”

After that Disney World trip, Mishkin started to put artwork she made into recycled frames. Each piece had an inspirational message on it. She started donating these to nursing homes. The Inspiration Project grew from there as volunteers started to help her.

The project collaborated with nonprofit organizations such as Special Olympics and Samaritan’s Purse. She also put the inspirations on cards to reach other demographics such as homeless populations.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, quarantine prevented The Inspiration Project from continuing in person. Mishkin was unable to work with her volunteers or give away her inspiration cards. Mishkin used the opportunity to move the project online via Facebook. The Inspiration Project page has reached almost a million people worldwide.

“I get messages through Facebook or through the email saying, ‘I needed that today. I was having a hard time and your inspiration made the biggest difference to me,’” said Mishkin. “I never know what is going on with their life. Maybe something happened in their family or with friends, but they felt some-

thing from The Inspiration Project, and it cheered them up.”

Mishkin said she has always been a writer in a sense. She pursued creativity in different ways throughout her adult life, such as becoming an artist at 50 years old and learning how to play the piano. Mishkin also was hired to film a video series called “Memoirs,” documenting the life stories of elderly people and their families in Pennsylvania. After about 25 years of vacationing on the island, she and her husband officially bought a condo in Longboat Key six years ago.

Mishkin’s art connects with the message of “TIP’s Magical Journey.” She has made multiple pieces surrounding themes of race and equality. This year, Mishkin is cochair along with Judy Herman for the Seaplace Condominiums annual art show. The show promotes art from Seaplace residents.

Mishkin said that community is one of the most important parts of her life. She started a club at Seaplace called “Our View” for residents to discuss current events and get to know more people. She is also a part of different organizations around the island such as Temple Beth Israel and the Barbara Club, a networking organization made up of women who share the name of Barbara.

“I’ve done volunteer work since I was 12 years old,” said Mishkin. “Not that it was instilled in me; I just like helping people. I was always a listener. I have never been one for getting up and making speeches. But if I can give someone a word of advice or even just listen, I want to do whatever I can to inspire them and brighten up their day.”

Barbara Mishkin with her book,“TIP’s Magical Journey: The Ride of Discovery and Inspiration.”

“Tip is basically a family member at this point. He has been such a vital part of my life and my children’s lives. I didn’t do it for the awards or to make money. I did it as a story of inspiration. I did it so my kids and family could have a legacy of seeing the type of person I am.”

— Barbara Mishkin

2B

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

New year, new ways to wellness A Longboat health coach offers holistic wellness education at Bayfront Park.

Mirabai Holland leads a Pumping the Prime class at the Bayfront Park Recreation Center.

PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER

E

verything in life is interconnected. Every decision you make in one aspect of your life will affect other parts as well.

This is what certified health coach Mirabai Holland teaches in her Lose-to-Win program. She has been teaching exercise and health classes for 10 years on Longboat Key. “Lose-to-Win is not a diet,” said Holland. “I teach a wheel where the person is in the center and everything around the person affects them: food, exercise, stress, sleep.

This program is about finding balance between all of these and making life easier.”

Lose-to-Win is an intensive holistic education and health coaching program led by Holland. She said that the program goes beyond just following a weight-loss program. It focuses on integrating a complete lifestyle, covering diet, sleep, stress management and exercise.

The class is offered each Wednesday for four consecutive weeks at the Bayfront Park Recreation Center. Each class includes informative videos from Holland that discuss the topics for the week. This is followed by a discussion, Q&A and a quiz to see if everyone understood the information.

Holland is the wellness consultant for Manatee County and has offered the program for Manatee County workers as well as at the Longboat Key Club and Paradise Center.

The program also includes a discount to Holland’s private coaching sessions. She said that she encourages people to do the sessions so she can personalize the program to the individual. She helps with designing custom cuisine and an exercise program that addresses specific goals

PUMPED UP

Photos by Petra Rivera

Diane Bussandri

and stress management methods for everyday life.

“I have people that lost a lot of weight,” said Holland. “I had people that lost hardly any, and yet, it helped them in many other ways.

They would continue coaching with me afterwards and see results later.

This is really not just about counting calories, not just about what to put in your mouth. This is about your life, and how to live your optimal life with understanding what’s going on inside your body.”

She also teaches “Pumping the Prime” every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. That class is a low-impact cardio class that burns calories and increases stamina. She carefully curates the music and exercises for a lively full-body workout.

“The classes are super easy to follow,” said Arlene Levy, who has been taking the class since 2016. “A lot of us have been coming for years, so we have built a great community that has this amazing energy. Mirabai knows everyone and she takes notes of our adjustments needed, like if someone has back problems or a knee hurts.

She will take the time during class to look out for us and personalize it so we can get the most benefit out of it.”

MOTIVATION CLOSE TO HOME

Holland has been a dancer all her life, opening her own Boston dance studio in her early 20s. When her father wasn’t seeing any progress at a physical therapist following a knee replacement, Holland became intrigued with health and exercise. She decided to take matters into her own hands in helping her father recover.

“I was helping my dad, and also, I

fell off a cliff in 1983,” said Holland.

“I was hiking with my boyfriend at the time in Israel. Long story short, I fell 30 feet. I almost died. There was a big rock pile and I missed it. I decided that I had to think about something else, besides dancing. I was teaching a lot. I was performing a lot. And so I said, ‘Well, maybe I should go and get more into fitness and health.’”

Holland has a bachelor’s degree in education and a master’s degree of fine arts, dance and exercise. She also earned a master’s of nutrition and physiology from New York University.

She is originally from Chicago but lived in New York and Boston while teaching, consulting and developing health programs. She was the director of fitness and wellness programs at the 92nd Street YMCA for 16 years. Holland also is the CEO of her own health video production company, NuVue LLC. She started this with her husband in 1996.

“Lose-to-Win is all about being intentional,” said Holland. “I get you to shed the external barriers. You have to lose all these things that are keeping you back and win, meaning to bring in who you are and what you really want to be.”

Shopping + Dining + Events Lakeside at Waterside Place

Start your day with a latte before squeezing in a spa treatment and an afternoon of shopping. Gather with friends and family for dinner and drinks along the water and under the stars. You'll find new ways to enjoy the day whenever you're here.

And now, with our Beverages in the Street program, you can take your adult beverage to-go as you explore Waterside Place.

WatersidePlace .com

417670-1

Sarasota’s Only Lakefront Town Center | 1561 Lakefront Drive, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34240

LOSE-TOWIN PROGRAM This program is held every Wednesday from 11:15 a.m. to 12:25 p.m. for four consecutive weeks. Sessions for Bayfront Park Recreation Center members are $225, and nonmembers are $255. Two discounted private coaching sessions with Holland are optional for $190. Preregistration is required with a minimum of 10 participants. For more information or to preregister, email Mirabai Holland at Mirabai@ MovingFree.com.

Dates: Feb. 7-28 March 6-27

PUMPING THE PRIME This low-impact cardio class is every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10-11 a.m. The cost is $10 for members and $15 for nonmembers. Drop by the Recreation Center to pick up a registration form or email Mirabai@ MovingFree.com.

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

3B

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

BENCHMARK RESULTS • STR ATEGIC MARKETING • PERSONALIZED SERVICE

W NE

!

NG I ST LI

RECENT ACTIVITY

TY CI

ALINARI DOWNTOWN

545 SANCTUARY DR #B406 | $2,295,000

800 N TAMIAMI TRL #317 | OFFERED AT $989,000 Located in the amazing Rosemary ART & DESIGN District downtown sits this 1830 SF 2 bed/2.5 bath premium end unit with both East and West wraparound balconies along with a bonus south terrace off the ensuite guest bedroom. Enjoy Resort-Style amenities and the close proximity to The Bay, airport and the cultural hub of downtown.

MLS# A4594771

T EC R DI

S EW I V

D TE A V NO E R

S! W E VI F L GU

1085 GULF OF MEXICO DR #302 | $975,000

W NE

!

OF O R

BEACHPLACE GETAWAY

1055 GULF OF MEXICO DR #205 | OFFERED AT $1,670,000 This is the lowest price PSF of all the direct beachfront Beachplace offerings in the largest 2 bedroom floor plan. Expertly renovated with tumbled marble. raised ceiling, quartz counters, impact windows, top of the line appliances and direct azure water views from almost every room.

MLS# A4571524

3605 FAIR OAKS PL | $1,895,000

I A N A DDY, PA

G A I L W IT T IG

IanAddy@MichaelSaunders.com

GailWittig@MichaelSaunders.com

R E A LT O R ®, M B A

A SSOCI ATE

941.387.0100

416834-1

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

4B

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

Robin, down to a T

T

emple Beth Israel was filled with laughter on Jan. 14.

Robin Williams impersonator Roger Kabler performed his nationally recognized comedy show, “The Ultimate Robin Williams Tribute Experience.”

The night started with dinner at 6 p.m.

Temple members invited their friends and family from other organizations and communities on the island to the dinner and show event.

At 7:30 p.m., guests headed into the synagogue and the show began. Kabler’s first act was an impersonation of Williams, as though people were watching one of his shows live. He ended the first act with a recap of some of Williams’ most famous lines.

Following an intermission, Kabler shared with the audience his story, talked about his film “Being Robin” and took requests for impressions of other celebrities, such as Robert De Niro, Michael Jackson and Neil Diamond.

This show was part of a seven-stop tour around Florida. Kabler has traveled the country performing “The Ultimate Robin Williams Tribute Experience.”

“He has the mannerisms down to the T, and he looks a lot like him, too,” said temple member Karen Gary. “I really liked the second act where he shared his story with us. I liked being able to understand why he does what he does and how he became the comedian he is today.”

Roger Kabler as Robin Williams

Photos by Petra Rivera

Arlene Levy and Ralph Liebstein

Alan Cohen and Roger Kabler Carole Shaw, Stuart Sinai, Susan Goldfarb and Bunny Skirboll

— PETRA RIVERA

IS PERSONALIZED CARE RIGHT FOR YOU?

Exceptional Service by your Neighborhood REALTOR®,

JoDene Moneuse New Cons truct ion

LONGBOAT KEY

$5,395,000 LONGBOAT KEY

$1,795,000

Historic 4 bedroom home in Conrad Beach 7040 Firehouse Rd, Longboat Key

4 bdrms/4.5 baths on 170ft. of canal 619 Longview Dr, Longboat Key

Connecting with your doctor when you need them most is crucial.

LONGBOAT KEY

$1,250,000 LONGBOAT KEY

Build your dream home on canal front land in Longbeach Village! 521 Broadway St, Longboat Key

With concierge medicine at Gulfshore Personalized Care, it’s possible to meet your medical needs anywhere at any time. Thomas Arne Jr., DO, FACC, proudly offers patient-centered care through concierge services, such as 24/7 access and same-day visits.

$850,000

Vacant lot in the Longboat Key Village

Call us to schedule your no-obligation meet & greet with Dr. Arne today.

• 34 year Longboat Key Resident • Top 1.5% of Florida Realtors - Real Trends America’s Best Real Estate Agents

941.302.4913

• Institute for Luxury Home Marketing Million Dollar GUILD

JoDeneMoneuse@michaelsaunders.com LongboatKeyLiving.com

1250 S Tamiami Trail, Suite 401, Sarasota, FL 34239

941-366-2194

417761-1

• 2019-2022 Five Star in Customer Service Award Winner

416887-1

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

Grow your own

VEGETABLES!

Let us help you with seeds, starter plants, supplies and suggestions!

Largest selection of plants & flowers Including those unique to our area • Locally Owned Beautiful Garden Accessories & Gifts • Statues & Containers

FARM & GARDEN 941-366-4954 • YourFarmandGarden.com 735 South Beneva Rd., Sarasota FL 34232

415486-1

We are your source for everything yard and garden!

Your

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

5B

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

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

SERENE LIVING IN COUNTRY CLUB SHORES ON LONGBOAT KEY 585 GUNWALE LN. | $6,900,000

•EXCEPTIONAL CITY & BAY VIEWS •3BR/4BA •4,733 SF •LARGE ENCLOSED LANAI

• • •

•LANDSCAPED GROUNDS •FLOOR-TO-CEILING WINDOWS •RENOVATED KITCHEN WITH MODERN AMENTIES

• • •

•NEWLY CONSTRUCTED SEAWALL •RE-TILED AND RESURFACED POOL •360 VIEWS FROM A ROOFTOP VIEWING PLATFORM

401 QUAY, RESIDENCE #1101 | $7,595,000

505 S ORANGE AVE UNIT #401 | $2,215,000

1212 BENJAMIN FRANKLIN DR UNIT#308 | $1,100,000

4400 EXETER DR UNIT#205 | $464,000

CONTACT US TODAY FOR YOUR PRIVATE TOUR 443F John Ringling Blvd | Sarasota, FL 34236 417394-1

• • • •

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

Fresh act on tap Savor the Sounds concert series returns with a new band in the lineup.

Open Wednesday - Sunday • 11am - 11pm (closed Monday & Tuesday) 201 N. Gulf Dr., Bradenton Beach 941-778-0771

PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER

G

SAVE THE DATE

Saturday, April 6, 2024 SCF Venice Campus

8000 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice, FL 34293 A fundraiser for the SCF Foundation, featuring a concert by the Pops Orchestra, and a fireworks presentation.

VIP cocktail hour begins at 5:30 pm

Sponsorships available, contact Kenji Trujillo at 941-752-5398 For event tickets, go to www.scf-foundation.org/eveningunderthestars or call 941-752-5262

412279-1

General Admission gates open at 4 pm; program begins at 7 pm

et ready to Savor the Sounds at Longboat’s annual outdoor concert series.

New Chamber of Commerce President Kim Verreault has been busy preparing for the first Savor the Sounds under her leadership.

Verreault shared that this is the first year the band SoulRcoaster will be in the lineup. The band covers a variety of genres like classic rock, jazz and country. The concert series helps give exposure to local bands and make new memories in the community, Verreault said.

“We actually did new research this year and paid attention to different local bands,” said Verreault. “We found SoulRcoaster, and they’ve done some outdoor venues before, such as the Ringling Museum and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. I think they are going to be crowdpleasers. They play a variety of music and they’re going to appeal to a wide age group.”

On Jan. 27, Kettle of Fish will be kicking off the series held at the Karon Family Pavilion at the Town Center Green. The band mixes rock, blues, reggae and New Orleans soul with a variety of covers. SoulRcoaster will be playing the second show on Feb. 17. Yesterdayze will close out the series on March 16 with covers of Top 40 hits from 1960-69 and modern classic country.

Each installment of Savor the Sounds will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Local artist Mike Sales will be opening for the bands as people enter, starting at 4:30 p.m.

General admission tickets are $25 ahead of time and $35 at the gate.

People can reserve a table of eight in advance for $250. Otherwise, people

File image

IF YOU GO

Concerts are from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Town Center Green, 600 Bay Isles Road. Gates open at 4:30 p.m. Tickets are available for purchase through the Chamber. Call 383-2466 or visit Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce, 5390 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Suite 102.

Jan. 27: Kettle of Fish Feb. 17: ­SoulRcoaster March 16: ­Yesterdayze

Kettle of Fish perform at Savor the Sounds on Feb. 19, 2022.

are welcome to bring a picnic blanket and lawn chairs.

The presenting sponsor is Bank of America located on Longboat. The other sponsors include Cadence Bank, Reed Medical Group, Lifeworx, Secur-all Insurance, Welcome Home Concierge, the Observer Media Group and the town of Longboat Key. Verreault said that Mayor Ken Schneier, Town Manager Howard Tipton, Assistant to the Town Manager Susan Phillips and the rest of the town staff have been a great help with organizing the series since it is her first year.

“I envision seeing a large crowd of people at each of these concerts enjoying this beautiful space that has been created,” said Verreault.

Presented by

The Longboat Key Garden Club 13th Annual

TASTE

SOLD

TUNES OF THE KEYS

A fun night benefiting the LBK Garden Club Scholarships, Beautification Programs and Grants.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1

6 -8 P.M.

JUNGLE PLUM ROAD SIESTA KEY - $9,300,000

Longboat Key Club & Resort Harbourside Ballroom Taste of the Keys and Fashion Show has been revised!

The new version of this event is Taste and Tunes of the Keys! Our amazing local restaurants are back to serve up their fabulous foods, while enjoying music from Albert Donadi Trio (popular at many local venues).

We’re featuring a fun, new layout since there’s no fashion show or formal program. We will be conducting a silent auction with items such as: Three incredible getaways, private chef dining experience, dinner for six at a local restaurant, art work, jewelry and more!

Event Tickets: $100 Tickets available for sale: LBKGardenClub.org

LBKGC is a 501(c)(3) organization which provides college scholarships and grants to local non-profit organizations.

CHRIS WETZIG

Cell. 941-350-8083 chris.wetzig@premiersir.com www.chriswetzig.com 418103-1

414686-1

Call for Take Out or FREE DELIVERY

ANGELA WETZIG

Cell. 614-260-0038 angela.wetzig@premiersir.com

CHRISTOPHER WETZIG TEAM Your Longboat Key Real Estate Experts

416923-1

6B

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

7B

WATER

on the

Reid MuRphy PResents

LONGBOAT KEY MAGNIFICENT GULF FRONT ESTATE $ 17,500,000

LONGBOAT KEY BAY ISLES HARBOR $ 9,595,000

Completion November 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.

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

NEW PRICE

NEW LISTING

LONGBOAT KEY EN PROVENCE

LONGBOAT L’AMBIANCE

$

17,500,000

$

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

Fourth floor 2BD/3BA Sunset & panoramic views of Gulf & beach. East terrace views of the Bay & downtown. Fully furnished, available immediately. Private elevator, floor to ceiling windows. Two car parking. Resort style amenities.

4,195,000

LONGBOAT KEY DEEP WATER

2,795,000

$

Canal front 3BD/3BA indoor/outdoor multi level living w/ lush landscaping, boat dockage, extra storage. Large screened lanai w/ heated pool.

NEW PRICE

LONGBOAT KEY BOATERS DREAM

2,500,000

$

2,395,000

$

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.

100 ft of frontage, third home from Sarasota Bay. Fully renovated 4BR/3BA Beautiful Bay views from the pool deck and dock. Easy access boating waters.

LONGBOAT KEY

LONGBOAT KEY DEEP WATER

• 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.

$1,945,000

Meticulously maintained 3BD/2.5BA recently updated canal home w/new roof.

30ft dock, no bridges to Bay. Deeded beach access & Bay views.

BUYING OR SELLING

CALL REID

LONGBOAT KEY GRAND BAY

2,195,000

$

Rarely available, Building 4 w/southern exposure. 3BR/3.5BA +4th bunk bedroom, totally renovated with designer features plus new furniture.

LONGBOAT KEY WESTCHESTER

1,200,000

$

Beachfront southern exposure 2 BD/ 2 BA split plan, corner condo. Exceptional sunsets from 2 screened lanais. Remodeled w/ outstanding finishes. Designated covered parking, 2 pools, tennis, pickleball & shuffleboard courts and more.

for a successful real estate experience!

941.232.3304

DEVELOPERS REALTY LBK, INC. | LIC. REAL ESTATE BROKER

REIDMURPHY.COM

416739-1

LONGBOAT KEY BOATERS DREAM

8B

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

Suddenly in command Longboat Harbour Yacht Club prepares boaters for emergencies on the water.

PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER

T

he Longboat Harbour Yacht Club is taking all measures to ensure the safety of its members.

New Commodore Jeff Hecklau and Vice Commodore John Harkness have collaborated with the U.S. Coast Guard on a boating safety education series for Longboat Harbour Yacht Club members.

The first class, “Suddenly in Command,” took place on Jan. 11 at the Longboat Harbour Recreation Center with around 60 attendees. USCG Flotilla Commander Peter Russell and Flotilla Service Officer John Ashcraft led the class.

“The Coast Guard Auxiliary actu-

ally has a fleet of volunteers that patrol the waters,” said Hecklau.

“They do boat inspections and all sorts of different things. They also have an education group that does classes. This first class, called ‘Suddenly in Command,’ is specifically if the skipper of the boat becomes incapacitated for any reason: They fall overboard; they’re having a heart attack or a stroke, whatever it might be. What does the person who’s with them do if they aren’t an experienced boater?”

“Suddenly in Command” covered the basics that boating beginners need to know if they are in an emergency situation like this, such as using a boat radio, calling for help, using a chart to plot a course. “(The class) was a very well-

Peter ­Russell teaches “Suddenly in Command” at Longboat Harbour.

Courtesy images

Jeff Hecklau, Peter Russell, John Ashcraft and John Harkness

thought-out, informative presentation,” said resident Tony Pupo.

“We never think about worst-case scenarios like this, and now we are prepared. Everything was covered, from the type of radio and distress signals to have onboard to designating a person to be in charge. This was an evening well spent for our families and our community.”

The Coast Guard plans to host a full boat safety class in March that will help people get their boating safety certification. On the morning of Jan. 20, the Coast Guard plans to host a boat and kayak inspection to make sure that all boats are up to date on safety protocols.

Other future classes will include knot tying and kayak and paddleboard safety. Most classes are free of charge for Yacht Club members, except for the boater certification class. Hecklau said that they were interested in exploring safety and education topics relating to sailing as well.

“The message of this class for other communities is that the Coast

Guard is absolutely willing to run a similar program. It is the perfect collaboration to ensure safety on our docks,” said Hecklau.

This series is the first order of business under the new commodores’ term, which began Jan. 1. The new leadership will be recognized with a “change of watch” ceremony on Jan. 20, which is an annual tradition for the yacht club.

“Whether it be kayaks, paddleboards, sailboats or motor boats, our No. 1 goal is their safety and also the safety of the harbor and our community as a whole,” said Hecklau. “For instance, we’re doing that knot-tying class in a couple of weeks. If a boat is not tied up correctly, it certainly could endanger that particular boat, but if it gets loose, it could damage other boats.

It could sink and cause an environmental problem, which would then go down a whole different path. Our goal is always safety of boaters first and then safety of our facilities and our boats themselves.”

“Whether it be kayaks, paddleboards, sailboats or motor boats, our No. 1 goal is their safety and also the safety of the harbor and our community as a whole.”

— Jeff Hecklau, Commodore, Longboat ­Harbour Yacht Club

FIRST EXAM FREE*

AVAILABLE $3,325,000

FOR NEW CLIENTS

Valid until 1/31/24. mu st mention at time of booking or present ad to staff

3606 Fair Oaks PL | A4555331 4 Bedrooms, Bay Front in Queens Harbour, Longboat Key

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

CAT CARE CLINIC

Affordable Veterinary Services

417453-1

*Includes exam fee only. Does not include diagnostics or treatment fees.

AVAILABLE $1,850,000

PEN HOUSE

1485 Gulf of Mexico Dr. #104 | A4582339 3/3, Totally Renovated, Gulf Front, Longboat Key

AVAILABLE $1,399,900

2101 Gulf of Mexico Dr. #2504 | A4565766 2/2, Penthouse, Totally Renovated, Gulf Front, Longboat Key

You’ve heard about Empath’s Full Life Care, but if you’re still uncertain about what that entails—or even if you just want to come have a glass of wine and nibble on light Hors d’oeuvre with other LBK neighbors—come to our OPEN HOUSE!

Dennis Girard

Friday, January 26, 2024 4:00-5:30 PM

Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Rd., Longboat Key

Broker Associate

For more information, contact Chris Pfahler at cpfahler@tidewellfoundation.org or (941) 552-7651

412664-1

No RSVP needed.

416936-1

941-809-0041 | dennis.girard@premiersir.com 517 Bay Isles Pkwy Longboat Key, FL 34228 dennisgirard.premiersothebysrealty.com

TF-011124-0800

Wine, Cheese, and Schmoozing on LBK

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

9B

Turn What You Love

Into Where You Live

Lido Key | 495 Mckinley Drive $8,500,000 | 4 BR, 5.5 BA | Web# A4592328

Sarasota | 7722 Sanderling Road $8,000,000 | LAND | Web# A4585547

Lisa Morris: M 941.544.3332

Inbal August: M 917.957.8111

Longboat Key | 4651 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 102 $5,900,000 | 4 BR, 5.5 BA | Web# A4588197

Golden Gate Point | 325 Golden Gate Point, 803 $3,985,000 | 3 BR, 3.5 BA | Web# A4591721

Lisa Morris: M 941.544.3332

Julie Guirguis: M 440.503.3713 Amy Drake: M 941.376.9346

Bradenton | 5634 Mulligan Way $1,785,000 | 6 BR, 4 BA | Web# A4587672

Sarasota | 1331 Quail Drive $2,600,000 | 3 BR, 3 BA | Web# A4588224

Inbal August: M 917.957.8111

Lisa Morris: M 941.544.3332 Julie Guirguis: M 440.503.3713

Sarasota | 2245 Desoto Road $1,400,000 | 4 BR, 5 BA | Web# A4589265

Sarasota | 6518 Midnight Pass Road, 212 $950,000 | 2 BR, 2 BA | Web# A4593581

Inbal August: M 917.957.8111

Inbal August: M 917.957.8111

Visit Our Elliman Florida West Coast Offices 800 Harbour Drive, Naples, FL | O 239.799.5300 536 Park Street, Naples, FL | O 239.799.5303 1350 Main Street, Sarasota, FL | O 941.867.6199 100 Beach Drive, Ne, Suite 102, St. Petersburg, FL | O 727.698.5708 3124 West County Highway 30A, Suite 2, Santa Rosa Beach, FL | O 850.806.1410

elliman.com

418501-1

1350 MAIN STREET, SARASOTA, FL. 941.867.6199. © 2024 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE, THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, ROOM COUNT, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY.

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

Robert Gaglio ­addresses the audience at Bird Key Yacht Club.

Cindy Fischer

Courtesy image

Exclusive Island Properties

A traveler’s tales

2410 CASEY KEY ROAD

Chef Robert Gaglio shares stories from his tours of Italy and explains the art of making fresh pasta.

$3,895,000 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,186 Sq. Ft.

OBSERVER STAFF

H

e lost everything in the market crash of 2008, but Sarasota resident and former banker Robert Gaglio found a new purpose thanks to a trip to Italy where he revived family ties, rediscovered his heritage and stoked his passion for Italian cuisine.

Now, the founder of Italian Culinary Tours is taking a tour closer to home to share his love for cooking and the story of his self-discovery documented in the chef’s new book, “Freedom to Wander.”

The most recent stop on his junket was Jan. 10 at the Bird Key Yacht Club, where he taught more than 100 club members the art of pasta making.

Part of the Bird Key Yacht Club Seafarers Speakers series, Gaglio selected two club members for a hands-on cooking demonstration.

Donning aprons as they took center stage, club members Kathi-Ann Gage and John Dieter learned the ins and outs of crafting pasta, with Gaglio directing their efforts.

680 BROADWAY STREET $2,150,000 3 Beds 4 Baths 2,009 Sq.Ft.

7030 POINSETTA AVENUE $1,975,000 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,402 Sq.Ft.

‘FREEDOM TO WANDER’ EVENTS “The Other Italy: A Journey Beyond Italy’s Grand Tour” 2-3:30 p.m. Jan. 26. Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Ringling College, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $15. Registration required.

Visit O ­ lliRinglingCollege.org/­CourseCatalog.

Special book talk and concert 7-9 p.m. Jan. 29. Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota. Tickets: From $49; includes a pre-event reception at 6 p.m. with Italian aperitivo, a signed hardcover book and a handmade Italian Culinary Tours apron, made in Sicily. Visit ­Italian­CulinaryTours.com.

Afterward, club members enjoyed an Italian-themed meal prepared by Executive Chef Richard Mendoza and his team. Mendoza and his team capped off the meal with a tiramisu inspired by Gaglio’s cousin, who had helped reveal the joys of Italy years ago.

Gaglio concluded the night with stories from his many tours of Italy highlighted by beautiful photographs.

Longboat Key Specialist • FHE Beggins Enterprises

6960 POINSETTA AVENUE

941.822.6165 (Mobile)

$815,000

@JesseGriffinLBK • JesseGriffin@c21be.com 7000 Gulf of Mexico Dr • Longboat Key, FL 34228

2 Beds 2 Baths 1,461 Sq.Ft.

416710-1

gotlbk.com

COASTAL ELEGANCE AT ITS FINEST!

Open House Saturdays & Sundays 1- 4 pm 551 BROADWAY ST Longboat Key, FL

SOLD

Listed for $4,450,000

5131 JUNGLE PLUM ROAD

MLS# A4555735

$9,330,000

4 Bedrooms | 4.5 Baths 3,738 Sq Ft | 4 Car Garage

THIS HOME IS CURRENTLY UNDER CONSTRUCTION

BY EASON BUILDERS GROUP, KNOWN FOR QUALITY WORKMANSHIP AND ATTENTION TO DETAILS.

This new home features timely finishes including hard wood flooring, custom cabinetry, high quality solid surfaces, custom millwork throughout, and vaulted ceilings. There is a primary and secondary master suite and two en-suites. The home will have a private elevator, several covered lanais and an amazing tropical pool with spa surrounded by mature landscape. For the boaters, there is canal access, including a boat dock and 10,000 lb. lift with easy access to the ICW and the Gulf of Mexico. Conveniently located in the Historic Village of Longboat Key, you have easy access to the beach, which is a short 5 minute walk. You are also a short walk to three of the best local restaurants. Contact us now to take advantage of this pre-construction discount and take an active role in the final interior and exterior finishes of this unique island property. You are also welcome to stop by the builder’s office to experience a virtual 3D walkthrough of the home.

SOLD

6957 LONGBOAT DRIVE $2,575,000

418770-1

941.465.1124

CindyFischer.com CindyFischer@michaelsaunders.com 440 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228

417067-1

10B

GREGG BAYER Broker

AMI BEACHES REAL ESTATE “Old Florida with a new twist”

941.799.9096

gregg@amibeaches.com

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

11B

Featured Listings

We won the Top Brokerage in the United States, because our sales associates are among the top in the United States.

1

#

Top Brokerage The #1 Real Estate Company in the U.S.

Cocoanut Bayou | Siesta Key 265 Cedar Park Circle | $8,500,000 Bob Ruiz | 941.544.3299

Vue Sarasota Bay | Sarasota

Harbour Towne | Sarasota

1155 North Gulfstream Avenue Unit #509 | $2,700,000

1253 Dockside Place Unit #111 | $975,000

Stephanie Shaw | 941.544.3770

Bob Ruiz | 941.544.3299

Ocean Beach | Siesta Key

Lakewood National Golf Club | Bradenton

Shells on Sieata Key | Siesta Key

515 Cummings Street | $3,200,000

17439 Hickock Belt Loop | $1,025,000

221 Tenacity Lane | $1,895,000

Jennifer Thompson | 941.928.0790

Regina Putrino | 941.586.5834

Dawn Bear | 941.468.7224

OPEN HOUSES January 21st | 1-4 PM

1319 Dockside Place #Unit 221 | $1,295,000 Bob Ruiz | 941.544.3299

1253 Dockside Place Unit #111 | $975,000 Bob Ruiz | 941.544.3299

9393 Midnight Pass Road #202 | $595,000 Sheri Ruiz | 941.544.3299

Siesta Isles | Sarasota

Barton Farms | Sarasota

5400 Azure Way | $2,400,000

2950 Bravura Lake Drive | $845,000

Carlos Santos | 941.735.8302

Dawn Bear | 941.468.7224

9393 Midnight Pass Road #703N | $560,000 Sheri Ruiz | 941.544.3299

Explore Our World of Luxury Living

Scarsdale, NY

Back Bay, MA

New Canaan, CT

165 Croton Lake Road | $7,495,000 Scarsdale Office | 914.723.1331

1 Dalton Street #5204 | $12,900,000 Back Bay Office | 617.266.5200

1 Pratt Island | $11,000,000 New Canaan Office | 203.966.3555

#1 Independent Family-Owned Real Estate Company in Florida, South Carolina and the Northeast

418369-1

2023

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

Longboat Key, Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch, FL Realtor dedicated to assisting Buyers, Sellers, and Investors in navigating the dynamic real estate market.

Leighton@LeightonAllenby.com www.LeightonAllenby.com FL Real Estate License SL3472211

416909-1

LEIGHTON T. ALLENBY

239.537.4563

A Caribbean Coastal 4 bedroom, 4.5 bath home currently Under Construction with 3,793 sq ft on an oversized lot.

YOUR CALENDAR

12B

Located on a peninsula at the end of Longview Dr. in the Buttonwood Harbour Community, Longboat Key. This unique property features an Infinity Pool and Spa with a sun shelf and 170 ft of seawall on Cranes Bayou.

Cathy C. Meldahl, P.A. Your Longboat Key Community Realtor Celebrating 50 YEARS of Living and Working on Longboat Key 416863-1

941.724.7228

CathyMeldahl@michaelsaunders.com

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 24

WIND DOWN WEDNESDAYS: JAZZ HAPPY HOUR 5-6:30 p.m. at the Education Center at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. Join Don Mopsick and Friends, performing blues and jazz standards in the styles of the great women jazz artists such as Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Billie Holiday and more.

Wine and cheese included in the price. Members, $30; nonmembers, $35. Call 383-8222 or email EdCenter@LongboatKeyTemple.org.

THURSDAY, JAN. 25

MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY

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

Trust. Value. Faith.

Your Local Longboat Key Realtor

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND FRIDAYS

Direct Longboat Key Bayfront at popular Pelican Harbour 3 full bedrooms—water views on all sides furnished $ 1,079,000 | MLS#A4589473

418773-1

MichaelNink@michaelsaunders.com michaelnink.michaelsaunders.com

ERS’ EXPECTATIONS GBOAT KEY Sellers’

Exceeding

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND SATURDAYS

11th floor Islander Club “Manhattan Style” apartment shows like a model‐‐ 2Bed‐‐all redone—Bay and Gulf views Upscale Turnkey Furnished $ 1,299,000 | MLS#A4587000

Always a Holiday at Grand Bay Bldg 2, 3 bedroom 3 bath‐2 large balconies, one with Sweeping Bay View— great for indoor/outdoor living $ 1,475,000 | MLS#A4592876

440 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key, FL 34228 941-914-2805

PUMPING THE PRIME: CARDIO, STRENGTH & STRETCH 10 a.m. at the Bayfront Park Recreation Center. This low-impact class helps burn calories and increase stamina. It also includes strength exercises for a total body workout.

Participants should be able to get down on the floor and get up readily.

(Please bring a towel.) Runs until the end of April/May 2024. Classes are $10 for rec center members; $15 for nonmembers. Contact Mirabai Holland at Mirabai@­MovingFree.com.

The stunning sunrises from this 2 bedroom 3.5 bath Grand Bay Bldg 4 residence are some of the most beautiful In the world. Light and Bright Great room well situated for gatherings and Conversation $ 1,500,000 | MLS#A4588579

JUST LISTED

Open House Sunday, 1-4 pm

Reduced Price

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

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

MONDAYS

ZUMBA & TONING 10 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Taught by Reena Malik, this class begins with 30 minutes of Zumba and finishes with mat Pilates for flexibility and strengthening core muscles. Come for 30 or 60 minutes. Free for members, $15 for nonmembers.

Expectationson Longboat Key

...AND UNDER CONTRACT

TUESDAYS

AT THE MOVIES 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Education Center at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. Members $95; nonmembers $105. Join Gus Mol-

2326 HARBOUR OAKS DR.

3 BR | 2.5 BA | 2,282 SFSELLERS’ EXPECTATIONS EXCEEDING $1,225,000 | MLS# A4550092 EXCEEDING SELLERS’ EXPECTATIONS ON LONGBOAT KEY

ON LONGBOAT KEY EXCEEDING SELLERS’ EXPECTATIONS BUILD YOUR JUST LISTED DREAMHOME! ON LONGBOAT KEY ...AND JUST LISTED UNDER CONTRACT 540 HARBOR COVE CIRCLE

CANAL VACANTFRONT LAND LISTING KEY WEST STYLE HOME $3,400,000

PRIZED OAKS BAYFRONT FAIRWAY BAY 2326 HARBOUR DR. ...AND 3 BR | 2.5TOWNHOUSE BA | 2,282 SF

UNDER CONTRACT $1,225,000 | MLS# A4550092 1918 Harbourside Dr. #901

JUST LISTED 3 BR | 2.5 BA | 2,135 SF

793 Jungle MLS# Queen Way Residential A4534178 4 BR | 3 BA | 2,688 SF Vacant Land MLS# A4535177 $2,100,000 | MLS #A4575835

2326 HARBOUR OAKS DR. ...AND 3 BR | 2.5$1,850,000 BA | 2,282 SF| MLS# A4588451

BUILD YOUR

$1,225,000 | MLS# Elevator A4550092 UNDER CONTRACT • Custom • Rich Custom Cherry • Custom-built home in • Large enclosure with DREAMHOME! Access to Every Level Cabinetry Throughout private natural setting heated pool & spa HARBOUR OAKS DR. • Deeded Large, Deep 2326 • Resort-like Amenities • Extensive wrap around • Private dock & Deeded 540 HARBOR CIRCLE 3 BR | 2.5 BA | 2,282 SF WaterCOVE Boat Slip porches & balconies Beach Access VACANT LAND LISTING BUILD YOUR $1,225,000 | MLS# A4550092

JAN. 19-21

ST. ARMANDS INTERNATIONAL FOOD TRUCK & MUSIC FESTIVAL 4-10 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Saturday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday at Ken Thompson Park, 1700 Ken Thompson Parkway. Warm up with the St. Armands Food Truck Rally and Music Festival. Diverse food trucks will be offering a wide variety of flavors. On Saturday, enjoy delicious food and lively music, with more tastes and tunes on tap for Sunday.

EXPERIENCE TRANSFORMATIVE EFFECT OF POETRY RESPONDING TO THE VISUAL ART 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Education Center at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. Deborah Gerrish, published poet, will introduce the unique concept and effects of one art responding to another with examples and interactive exchange.

Members, $20; nonmembers, $25.

Call 383-8222 or email EdCenter@ LongboatKeyTemple.org.

RECURRING EVENTS

Michael Nink, PA, Broker- Associate, GRI

BEST BET

lasis, professional movie maven and film columnist, for a cinematic adventure. Movies are assigned at local cinemas to see and then discuss together in class. Join anytime on a prorated basis. Call 383-8222 or email EdCenter@LongboatKeyTemple.org.

QI GONG From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Qi gong is a mind-body-spirit practice designed to improve mental and physical health. Class is outdoors, weather permitting. Cost is $15. Walk-ins welcome. Call 383-6493.

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

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

Call 383-6493.

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

ROTARY CLUB Meets at 5 p.m. on first and third Tuesdays in All Angels Parish Hall, 563 Bay Isles Road. To learn more, call Nancy Rozance at 203-6054066 or email Info@LongboatKeyRotary.org.

WEDNESDAYS

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

WagnerRealty.com Your Hometown Favorite For More Than Eight Decades!

LOCAL, VETERAN OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1939 LONGBOAT KEY

LONGBOAT KEY

LAST SIX MONTHS

$3,400,000

DREAMHOME! Residential MLS# A4534178

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

New Listing

Vacant Land MLS# A4535177

540 HARBOR COVE CIRCLE BUILD YOUR

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

Residential MLS# A4534178 3555 FAIR OAKS LANE Vacant Land MLS# A4535177 SOLD FOR $2,300,000

2101 HARBOURSIDE DRIVE SOLD FOR $1,310,000

580 BIRDIE LANE SOLD FOR $4,260,000

HOME SALES IN LAST SIX MONTHS

DREAMHOME! 540 HARBOR COVE CIRCLE VACANT LAND LISTING $3,400,000 Residential MLS# A4534178 Vacant Land MLS# A4535177

612 Marbury Lane | Sleepy Lagoon Pk| MLS#A4590263 | 2/2 - 1,128 sf | Canal Front | $1,325,000 | Ed Taaffe (636) 346-6165

$2,350,000 | MLS # A4587573

$875,000 | MLS # A4592954 BEVERLY ST. HILAIRE 2101 HARBOURSIDE DRIVE 580 BIRDIE LANE

JULIE KLICK BEVERLY ST. HILAIRE SOLD FOR $1,310,000 SOLD FOR 818.416.2505 Longtime residents of Longboat Key$4,260,000 with over 818.416.2505 941.780.6001

Julie Klick

30 years of combined experience specializing beverlysthilaire@michaelsaunders.com BeverlySellsSarasota.com in Longboat Key real estate.

VOTED “Favorite Real Estate Company” by readers of the local newspaper for 25 years in a row!

Longboat Key Office

941.780.6001

BeverlySellsSarasota.com 818.416.2505

61 S. Boulevard of the Presidents | Sarasota, FL 34236 | beverlysthilaire@michaelsaunders.com 941.388.4447 | www.michaelsaunders.com JulieKlick@michaelsaunders.com 61 S. Boulevard of the Presidents | Sarasota, BeverlySellsSarasota.com FL 34236 | 914.388.4447 | MichaelSaunders.com LivingonLongboat.com

JULIE KLICK

941.780.6001

34236Longtime | 941.388.4447 | www.michaelsaunders.com residents of Longboat Key with over 30 years of

417197-1

Beverly St. Hilaire

818.416.2505 BEVERLY ST. HILAIRE BeverlyStHilaire@michaelsaunders.com

1801 Gulf Dr #268 | Runaway Bay | MLS#A4584838 2/2 - 1,080 sf | Deeded Beach Access | $549,000 | Becky Smith /Elfi Starrett (941) 773-1954

RESIDENTIAL SALES - RENTALS - PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Longtime of Longboat Key with over 30 years of 941.780.6001 boat Key with overresidents 30 years of JulieKlick@michaelsaunders.com combined experience specializing in Longboat Key real estate.

LivingonLongboat.com zing in Longboat Key real estate.

JULIE KLICK

4370 Chatham Drive, Unit 104| Longboat Harbour MLS#A4592435 | 2/2 - 1,040 sf | Great amenities | $550,000 | Ed Taaffe (636) 346-6165

ANNA MARIA ISLAND

LONGBOAT KEY

2341 HARBOUR OAKS CIR. 3555 FAIR OAKS LANE 6TH FLOOR UNIT WITH GULF, CITY, ONE-LEVEL LONGBOAT KEY VILLA SOLD FOR $1,275,000 FOR $2,300,000 AND BAY VIEWS WITH BAYSIX VIEWSMONTHS HOMESOLD SALES INPARTIAL LAST L’Elegance On Lido Beach Harbour Oaks in Bay Isles 2101 HARBOURSIDE DRIVE 580 BIRDIE LANE 2341 HARBOUR OAKS CIR. 3555 FAIR OAKS LANE 1800 Benjamin Franklin, A601 2143 Harbourside Dr., #1201 SOLD FOR $1,310,000 SOLD FOR $4,260,000 3 BR | 3 BA | 1,980 SF SOLD FOR $1,275,0003 BR | 2.5 BA | 2,224 SF SOLD FOR $2,300,000

beverlysthilaire@michaelsaunders.com JulieKlick@michaelsaunders.com BeverlySellsSarasota.com LivingonLongboat.com

597 Sutton Place | Sutton Place MLS#A4586008 2/1.5 - 1,008 sf | Deeded Beach Access | $524,900 Dia Wilson (941) 284-3667

BEVERLY ST. HILAIRE

818.416.2505

5360 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Suite 101 Longboat Key, FL 34228

941.383.5577

418385-1

580 BIRDIE LANE VACANT LAND LISTING SALES IN LAST$3,400,000 SIX MONTHS SOLD HOME FOR $4,260,000

YourObserver.com

13B

N EW M T AR O KE TH T E

N EW M T AR O KE TH T E

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

55 Lighthouse Point | Longboat Key | $8,900,000 5 bed + 2 flex rooms, 4.5 bath | 6,159 Sq Ft

1180 Bogey Lane | Longboat Key | $1,200,000

WHERE LOCATION, SOPHISTICATION AND LUXURY MEET. A gated enclave of 16 luxury homes on the southern tip of Longboat Key. Resort-style outdoor area, and a boater's paradise with direct gulf access, almost new, luxurious amenities, all within Sarasota, Florida's cultural hub.

Updated home features 2 bedrooms + flex room, 2 bathrooms, a living area of 2,180 sq ft. Country Club Shores is known for its prime location near waterways and golf amenities, tennis, boating, and exclusive beach sunsets with a low HOA fee of only $200 per year. Minutes to the new St. Regis on the Gulf of Mexico. Southern Longboat Key with Deeded Beach Access. www.1180Bogey.com

2 bed + flex room , 2 bath | 2,180 Sq Ft

N EW M T AR O KE TH T E

N EW M T AR O KE TH T E

www.55Lighthouse.com

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

521 Wedge Lane | Longboat Key | $1,975,000 3 bed, 2 bath | 1,758 Sq Ft Sailboat Water Front home on the southern end of Longboat Key in Country Club Shores with DEEDED BEACH ACCESS. The home showcases a new roof, a new Seawall with a TREX deck, and a 10,000-pound boat lift. This home also has newer kitchen and baths a split floor plan a family room and solar panels for the swimming pool. Instant enjoyment. www.521WedgeLane.com

1300 Benjamin Franklin Dr. #1001 | Lido Key | $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

3500 Bayou Louise Lane | Siesta Key | $11,500,000 5 bed, 5.5 bath | 6,300 Sq Ft

2251 Gulf of Mexico Dr. 204 | Aria - LONGBOAT KEY | $9,995,000 3 bed + office or 4 bed, 3.5 bath | 4,032 Sq Ft Aria's modern, gulf-front corner residence features a gourmet kitchen, private 3400 sq ft terrace with infinity pool, summer kitchen, 4-5 car garage, social room, guest suite, fitness center, and on-site management. Feels like a home on the beach with direct walkdown. www.Aria204.com

RE

D

U CE

D

Location, Location, Location - This gated estate on the northern tip of Siesta Key offers Gulf of Mexico views, a pool, spa, outdoor kitchen, boat lift, sports area, main level with bedrooms, library, chef's kitchen, elevator, and a 4-car garage. www.3500BayouLouise.com

418024-1

3060 Grand Bay #122 | Longboat Key $1,200,000 3 bed, 3 bath | 2,250 Sq Ft

2185 Gulf of Mexico Dr #214 | Villa Di Lancia Longboat Key | $2,350,000

impressive new finishes and features. Fitness center, pool & tennis. DEEDED BEACH

Sunsets - walk down private stairs to beach & pool.

This magnificent 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom residence sprawls over 2,448 sq ft, showcasing breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico from the oversized terrace. www.VillaDiLancia214.com

Lori Better Lawson than new two-bedroom, two-bath residence,

This corner bay-view home boasts wrap-around terraces, 9-ft ceilings, 2 bedrooms plus a study or third bedroom with an en-suite. Deeded beach access, and Grand Bay's elite amenities: warm pools, fitness hub, tennis, security. 2 Pets welcome, no size limit. www.GrandBay122.com

JUDY

1930 Harbourside Dr. #122 | Fairway Bay | $879,000 2 bed, 2 bath | 1,192 Sq Ft

*** MOTIVATED SELLER - will entertain all reasonable offers *** www.1930HarboursideDr122.com

3 bed, 3 bath | 2,448 Sq Ft

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

LONGBOAT KEY 610 Longview Drive 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 3,793 Sq. Ft. JoDene Moneuse & Susan Smith 941-302-4913 A4586153 $5,395,000

SARASOTA 609 Golden Gate Point 301 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,750 Sq. Ft. Carol Aviles 941-356-6777 A4590149 $2,695,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3527 Fair Oaks Lane 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 4,154 Sq. Ft. Kathy Callahan 941-900-8088 A4583932 $2,595,000

SARASOTA 1800 Benjamin Franklin Drive A602 3 Beds 3 Baths 1,980 Sq. Ft. Beverly St Hilaire & Julie Klick 818-416-2505 A4587573 $2,350,000

LONGBOAT KEY 699 Penfield Street 2 Beds 3 Baths 2,536 Sq. Ft. Cathy Meldahl, Pa & Susan Smith 941-724-7228 A4593104 $2,300,000

LONGBOAT KEY 545 Sanctuary Drive B406 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,375 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy & Gail Wittig 941-961-8850 A4576305 $2,295,000

LONGBOAT KEY 680 Broadway Street 3 Beds 4 Baths 2,009 Sq. Ft. Cindy Fischer 941-465-1124 A4587392 $2,150,000

LONGBOAT KEY 793 Jungle Queen Way 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,688 Sq. Ft. Beverly St Hilaire & Julie Klick 818-416-2505 A4575835 $2,100,000

LONGBOAT KEY 7030 Poinsetta Avenue 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,402 Sq. Ft. Cindy Fischer 941-465-1124 A4587406 $1,975,000

SARASOTA 100 Central Avenue D507 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,273 Sq. Ft. Bibi-Ann Allard PA 941-685-0422 A4585047 $1,950,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3605 Fair Oaks Place 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,713 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy & Gail Wittig 941-961-8850 A4578278 $1,895,000

LONGBOAT KEY 380 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 525 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,255 Sq. Ft. Linda Driggs 941-374-2920 A4588216 $1,895,000

LONGBOAT KEY 1918 Harbourside Drive 901 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,135 Sq. Ft. Julie Klick & Beverly St. Hilaire 941-780-6001 A4588451 $1,850,000

LONGBOAT KEY 7040 Firehouse Road 4 Beds 3 Baths 2,780 Sq. Ft. Maureen Horn 941-539-3384 A4584884 $1,795,000

SARASOTA 111 S Pineapple Avenue 1004 2 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,513 Sq. Ft. Lee Dillon 941-928-5012 A4588173 $1,735,000

LONGBOAT KEY 610 Russell Street 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,688 Sq. Ft. Matthew Voss 941-237-0877 A4586583 $1,699,000

SARASOTA 446 Burns Court 2 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,313 Sq. Ft. Susan Katanic 941-400-0601 A4567393 $1,500,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3040 Grand Bay Boulevard 214 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,369 Sq. Ft. Michael Nink, Pa 941-914-2805 A4592876 $1,475,000

LONGBOAT KEY 2295 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 115 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,235 Sq. Ft. Michael Nink, Pa & Sandi Layfield 941-914-2805 A4587000 $1,299,000

LONGBOAT KEY 1050 Longboat Club Road 904 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,409 Sq. Ft. Melissa Gissinger 941-404-2722 A4586935 $1,250,000

LONGBOAT KEY 569 Bayview Drive The Walter Group 941-809-0907 A4594313 $1,250,000

SARASOTA 800 N Tamiami Trail 317 2 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,830 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy & Gail Wittig 941-961-8850 A4594771 $989,000

LONGBOAT KEY 2143 Harbourside Drive 1201 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,224 Sq. Ft. Julie Klick & Beverly St Hilaire 941-780-6001 A4592954 $875,000

LONGBOAT KEY 6960 Poinsetta Avenue 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,461 Sq. Ft. Cindy Fischer 941-465-1124 A4583722 $815,000

SARASOTA 435 S Gulfstream Avenue 1006 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,304 Sq. Ft. Dana Westmark 941-356-5091 A4585040 $665,000

LONGBOAT KEY 6609 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 4,132 Sq. Ft. The Walter Group 941-809-0907 A4587168 $4,995,000

LONGBOAT KEY 648 Dream Island Road 4 Beds 4 Baths 3,631 Sq. Ft. Maureen Horn & JoDene Moneuse 941-539-3384 A4587088 $3,999,950

LONGBOAT KEY 1241 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 105 2 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,585 Sq. Ft. Michael Moulton 941-928-3559 A4589400 $2,995,000

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM

417346-1

14B

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

JAN. 1-5

ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR

A

home in Bay Isles tops all transactions in this week’s real estate. Dominic and Elizabeth Zaccone sold their home at 541 Harbor Point Road to Pierre McCormick, trustee, of Longboat Key, for $7,712,800.

Built in 1988, it has four bedrooms, six-and-a-half baths, a pool and 3,852 square feet of living area.

It sold for $2.49 million in 2021.

REAL ESTATE

Bay Isles home tops sales at $7.7 million

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

15B

BIRD KEY

Anne Yeager, trustee, sold the home at 450 Partridge Circle to George Maurizi and Gayle Uhlenburg, trustees, of Sarasota, for $3,775,000. Built in 2009, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,754 square feet of living area.

It sold for $1.85 million in 2012.

Joan Trice, trustee, of Sarasota, sold the home at 568 Bird Key Drive to Edwin and Julia Pogue, of Sarasota, for $2.17 million. Built in 1965, it has two bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,210 square feet of living area. It sold for $915,000 in 2020.

INN ON THE BEACH

Swampchamp Investments LLC sold the Unit 2603 condominium at 210 Sands Point Road to Edward Bruce Miller and Ann Miller, of Longboat Key, for $2,712,500. Built in 1982, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,284 square feet of living area. It sold for $950,000 in 2012.

THE BEACHES OF LONGBOAT KEY

Claudia Vanuno, of Winter Park, sold her Unit 205 condominium at

Courtesy image by Bruce Myer

This four-bedroom home at 541 Harbor Point Road recently sold for $7,712,800. It has six-and-a-half baths, a pool and 3,852 square feet of living area.

775 Longboat Club Road to Randall Carl Peterson and Elise Renee Howard, of Longboat Key, for $1 million.

Built in 1984, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,602 square feet of living area. It sold for $502,500 in 2018.

608 Bayport Way to Michael and Helmiah Capote, of Longboat Key, for $600,000. Built in 1980, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,260 square feet of living area. It sold for $400,000 in 2017.

LONGBOAT PASS

John and Valerie Horton, trustees, of Longboat Key, sold the Unit 178 condominium at 731 El Centro to James Alvin Creech Jr. and Robin Turk Creech, of Roswell, Georgia, for $485,000. Built in 1969, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,361

Caroline Anne Vroom, trustee, sold the Unit 3 condominium at 380 N. Shore Road to Stephen and Lynn Roberts, of Longboat Key, for $700,000. Built in 1969, it has one bedroom, one bath and 794 square feet of living area. It sold for $360,000 in 2020.

SPANISH MAIN YACHT CLUB

BAYPORT BEACH AND TENNIS CLUB

Steven Kenneth Mallery and Diana Robb Mallery, trustees, of Sarasota, sold the Unit 608 condominium at

TOP BUILDING PERMITS

square feet of living area. It sold for $375,000 in 2021.

KINGSTON ARMS

Laura Stowers, Susan Denton and Carol Durant sold their Unit 21B condominium at 500 S. Washington Drive to Alex and Irene Kamaroff, of Huntington, Massachusetts, for $465,000. Built in 1963, it has one bedroom, one bath and 831 square feet of living area. It sold for $80,000 in 1991.

In with the new NOW TAKING CONTRACTS

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of Jan. 5-11 in order of dollar amounts.

Longboat Key Address

Permit

Applicant

Amount

6489 Gulfside Road

Electrical

Seaward Lido Key LLC

$170,000

Mechanical

Aquarius Club

$148,555

Alt/Renovation

Condominium Association

Mechanical

Jack Brown

$62,995

Trading Waves FL LLC

$62,140

Houston Little Jr.

$59,000

Houston Little Jr.

$57,000

New Construction 1701 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 531 Harbor Cove Circle

New Construction 548 Spinnaker Lane

Plumbing New Construction

1001 Longboat Club Road

Electrical New Construction

1001 Longboat Club Road

Plumbing

DOWNTOWN SARASOTA SOTA Residences & Hotel | 941.462.3900 | From $1.8M | Visit the Main Street Gallery | thesota.com

DOWNTOWN ST. PETERSBURG 400 Central | 727.209.7848 | From the $900,000s | Call for an appointment | Residences400central.com

MOVE-IN SPRING 2024

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

GOLDEN GATE POINT

LONGBOAT KEY

New Construction 2944 Gulf Of Mexico Drive

Swimming Pool

Marks Development Fl LLC $50,000

Spa 531 Ranger Lane

Alt/Renovation

Pietro Cuomo

$30,000

455 Longboat Club Road

Electrical

Patrick Perin

$30,000

#2PH

Alt/Renovation

355 Firehouse Court

Mechanical

Joseph Scarpo

$26,531

Windows/Doors

Nancy Schwiesow

$26,367

Mechanical

James Franczek

$24,646

A/C Change Out 1925 Gulf Of Mexico Drive #301 5422 Sandhamn Place

A/C Change Out 7120 Longboat Drive N.

Alt/Renovation

Stephen Beigbeder

$24,000

784 St. Judes Drive N.

Alt/Renovation

Tost Marilyn

$23,400

N Revocable Trust

6489 Gulfside Road

Seaward Lido Key LLC

$21,000

Electrical

Vishal And Melissa Soin

$20,000

Alt/Renovation

Family Dynasty Trust

Alt/Renovation

John Bullock

$18,180

3574 Fair Oaks Way

Dock/Seawall/Lift

William Mitchell

$17,602

311 Firehouse Court

Electrical - Other

Victor Gayle

$16,191

631 Ranger Lane

Plumbing Alt/Renovation

Vishal And Melissa Soin Family Dynasty Trust

$15,000

Electrical New Construction

631 Ranger Lane 4960 Gulf Of Mexico Drive

En Pointe | 941.685.1598 | enpointesarasota.com | From $2,775,000

The Residences at the St. Regis | 941.213.3300 | SRResidencesLongboatKey.com

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

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

Unit 206

Prices as of November 2023

417342-1

Source: Town of Longboat Key

MichaelSaunders.com/New-Homes | 844.591.4333 | Sarasota, Florida

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

The Beach Residences, Ritz-Carlton 1300 BENJAMIN FRANKLIN DRIVE, 1103, SARASOTA, FL 34237 4 Beds | 3 Baths | 3,861 Sq Ft | $5,750,000

Experience the enchantment of hypnotic sunset vistas at “The Beach Residences,” expertly managed by The Ritz-Carlton. This exquisite residence promises day-to-night fascination with its breathtaking Gulf views to the West and bay views to the East from the guest bedrooms and den. The majestic living area in this generously proportioned 3,861 sq ft home offer eleven foot ceilings which are unique to the 11th floor. The gourmet kitchen is complete with high-end appliances and luxurious finishes. The residence features beautiful hard-wood flooring throughout and is available furnished for immediate occupancy. Embrace the exclusive Ritz-Carlton lifestyle, complete with an unparalleled array of amenities, ensuring a life of seclusion and luxury. Here, you can indulge in a private pool and spa, a social room, a well-appointed kitchen, a boardroom for your business needs, and a billiards room as well for recreation. Movie enthusiasts can revel in the on-site theater with tiered seating, while those seeking relaxation can visit the massage room.

The attentive 24-hour concierge service ensures all your needs are met. Maintain your well-being at the state-of-the-art fitness center, and provide your guests with comfort in the available guest suites. Even your furry companions are catered to with a convenient dog run. The comprehensive maintenance fee covers an array of services including building exterior maintenance, cable and internet, escrow reserve funds, flood insurance, ground upkeep, building insurance, maintenance and repairs, managerial services, public insurance, recreational facilities, roof maintenance, security, trash removal, and water and sewer expenses. At “The Beach Residences,” pets are not only welcome but celebrated, with no weight limit imposed. Plus, you’re only moments away from the vibrant St. Armands Circle and the rich cultural offerings of downtown Sarasota. This residence is not just a home; it’s a gateway to an opulent coastal lifestyle.

Scan to See More!

Perry Jason Corneau REAL ESTATE ADVISOR

941.650.4626 perry.corneau@compass.com sarasotacondominiums.com sarasotaperry.com

Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01527365 / 01997075. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate.

418829-1

16B

YourObserver.com

17B

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

SUNRISE / SUNSET

FRIDAY, JAN. 19

WEATHER

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

FORECAST

Sunrise Sunset

High: 70 Low: 50 Chance of rain: 60%

Thursday, Jan. 18

7:21a

6:00p

Friday, Jan. 19

7:21a

6:01p

Saturday, Jan. 20

7:21a

6:02p

Sunday, Jan. 21

7:20a

6:02p

SATURDAY, JAN. 20

Monday, Jan. 22

7:20a

6:03p

High: 57 Low: 43 Chance of rain: 1%

Tuesday, Jan. 23

7:20a

6:04p

Wednesday, Jan. 24

7:20a

6:05p

MOON PHASES SUNDAY, JAN. 21 High: 64 Low: 54 Chance of rain: 2%

Jan. 25 Full

Feb. 2 Last

Feb. 9 New

Feb. 16 First

TIDES Highs Lows

Donna Brown took this photo of an indigo bunting taking a rest on Longboat Key.

Thursday, Jan. 18

6:25a

5:19p

12:34a

11:21a

Friday, Jan. 19

9:08a

6:03p

2:01a

11:28a

Saturday, Jan. 20

—

6:54p

3:18a

—

Sunday, Jan. 21

—

7:51p

4:21a

—

Monday, Jan. 22

—

8:49p

5:14a

—

Tuesday, Jan. 23

—

9:42p

5:59a

—

2:01p

10:29p

6:37a

4:23p

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

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

POST-IT NOTES by Paul Coulter, edited by Jeff Chen

©2023 Universal Uclick

ACROSS 1 Workplace for a forensic team 7 Plugging away 11 Cointreau cocktails 19 “Magnifique!”

20 Square things?

21 Licorice-flavored brew 22 *FLutter?

24 One needing salvation 25 Saturated substances 26 Mideast capital that means “the gardens” 27 In the mail 28 Little devils 29 Ring up 30 Academic address ending 32 Workplaces for some RNs

64 “The People’s Princess” Atlanta 65 Coder’s problem 6 Undeserved notoriety 67 Company that comes 7 “___way!”

8 “The Wind in the Willows” calling 68 Wally’s little bro on TV hero 69 Paul who wrote “My 9 Like a done deal Way” 10 Golfer’s prop 71 Palindromic address 11 Successful pitch 72 Sophie ___ (“The Marvel12 Privy to 13 Concentrate, in a way ous Mrs. Maisel” character 14 The “e” in “i.e.” inspired by Phyllis Diller) 15 Element used in atomic 75 Maroon clocks 77 Have words with 16 Physicist’s accelerator 78 Actress Garr of “Young 17 Agree to another tour Frankenstein” 18 Pizza joint in “Do the 79 Word in quaint store Right Thing” names 20 Places of refuge 80 Feathered missile 23 Have something 81 The “Y” of “YSL” 27 Bottom line, often 82 “A mouse!!!”

29 Teenager’s deadline 85 Cuba-to-Florida swim31 Salvador who painted mer Diana wilting watches 86 One way to swear 33 Crocodile’s cousin 87 Deborah’s “The King and 34 Fish that go on a run I” co-star 35 Fish that slip and slide 88 “Caught you!”

36 Gamer’s buy that results 91 Empress who was Napoin much arm-waving? leon III’s wife 38 Milk, to Monique 95 Sudden outbursts 39 Gasteyer of “Mean Girls” 96 Tennessee athlete, to 34 Clinch 73 You might get a charge 101 On the quiet side?

40 With skill fans 103 Get old 37 *ALpen? out of it 41 RSVP enclosure, some- 97 Pester, like a Pekingese 105 Daredevil Knievel 44 Possessive pronoun 74 Rear-___ (accident) 98 Calm down times 45 Like control freaks 76 Inscribe an envelope for 108 Saw to a swab’s job 102 Cariou of “Sweeney 42 Numbers no longer 111 State of unconscious46 Big brand in lingerie 79 Like many whiskey Todd” used?

47 Hawks, on NBA scorebarrels ness 43 Like non-oyster months 103 Furtive summons 80 Food additive boards 115 Locale for Ljubljana 104 Purina competitor 44 Airer of some MGM 83 Literature Nobelist who’s 117 *IN need?

48 *CAshes?

106 Contended favorites 53 Israeli politician Dayan a singer 119 More hair-raising 107 Listening devices 49 Rust and lime 84 *PAst? 55 Script writers? (Abbr.)

120 Got some shut-eye 109 Binged (on), as in food 50 Part to play 89 Sugary drink suffix 56 Cross off 121 Getaway for Gauguin slang 51 Empty, as a math set 57 Features that can flutter 90 At hand 122 Tourney favorites 52 Descartes who declared, 110 Water carrier 92 “___ better watch out ...” 123 Jekyll’s dark side 59 Durable fabric 111 Smallish salmon “Cogito, ergo sum” 60 It’s a question of timing 93 Movie for which Mike 124 Doesn’t act well 112 “I got this, boss” 54 Big name in blenders Myers puts on a Scottish 63 Gets on board DOWN 58 Jar named for the town 113 Distribute accent 64 Author Harper 1 Remove, as a lid where Rembrandt was born 114 “No returns” 94 *MOdell?

66 *DEbark?

2 The Big Easy, in brief 116 Scrape by, with “out” 59 Colorful swimmer 98 Things under a mattress 70 Workplaces for some 3 Like crazy 117 Kinda sorta 60 The AEF fought in it 99 Spilled the beans RNs 4 Lawrence of Scandinavia? 61 Owns 118 Wing it, musically 100 Lines that laud 71 Earth’s middle layer 5 Olympic torch lighter in 62 Victorian or Prohibition

417954-1

celebrity cipher

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

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“AH IELWC O GOZ PT URN JCOBCNA SRZB HX LCCL RN SRBC IELWRZW AUC FHJCX HK AUC HVCOZ PT HZC JOMC.” CSMRN FXCNSCT

“ZKR LFZ EKM BEKY OM, VRM FM MIT UFP TEN KU NTJCFOP, MITPT OJ F YIOMT ASTFPOEX YITPT KET OJ FSLKJM IFCCZ.” HKFE VFTG

“MSPHEZ BI NLK VRK XHRAC SM CL KL ZLNR, VH YLSEK VRJH OSC LSP VHRKM GHVBAK LSP FAHHM.”

PLK MCHYRPC

Puzzle Three Clue: L equals O

crossword

Puzzle Two Clue: X equals G

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

Flooring Made for Your Family

Puzzle One Clue: P equals B

at MANASOTA FLOORING INC

© 2023 NEA, Inc.

sudoku

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

©2023 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

1-18-24

Made for where you live. Here!

THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

Homes for Sale

DEADLINES: Classifieds - Monday at 2PM Service Directory - Friday at 3PM • PAYMENT: Cash, Check or Credit Card

GRAND ESTATE SALE January 19th & 20th 9 am to 6 pm January 21st, 9 am to 3pm Copper Ridge 6410 Westward Place Bradenton, FL 34201 Numbers out at 8am A Dream-worthy Collection of over 3000 Literary & Military books, 2 Kayaks, 1 Canoe plus boating supplies, Over 30 Antique Microscopes, Over 15 Antique Telescopes, Antique Scales, Antique Framed Maps, Collection of Antique Wall Clocks, Civil War 1850’s Flintlock muzzleloader, Luxurious Leather sofas and chairs, Prize collection of framed Disney & Warner Brothers Cells, Listed Artists’ Artwork, Antique New England Whale Hunting Spears, King & Twin Bedroom Suites, Scott Racing Bike & Mountain Bike, Large selection of Patio Furniture, Dining Room Table, Unique pieces of electronics, AV system, Speakers, TVs, Kitchen Items, Garage items, Tools and lots of Bric-a-brac.

Autos Wanted CASH FOR YOUR CAR We come to you!

Ho Ho Buys cars.

941-270-4400.

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

Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

Motorcycles

OLD MOTORCYCLES WANTED *1920-1999* ALL Makes & ModelsAny Condition! $ CASH PAID $ Call 845-389-3239 cyclesndmore10@gmail.com

Competitive pay, holiday pay, and health insurance available

Seasonal Rental “just for you”

Help Wanted

Sporting Goods

2 Bed Condo Full Gulf Views$749,900 Good, bad, ugly, We buy and sell houses fast.

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

Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals LONGBOAT KEY Charming furnished home, remodeled. 3BR/2BA/2 car garage. Heated pool, dock, walk to beach. 3 King sized beds w/ laminated floor. Washer/dryer in laundry room. Screened lanai, w/ electric shutters. New roof. BBQ grill. No pets/no smoking Available Now! $5,000/ month.

1 yr lease minimum.

941-504-1492 Bring your boat & sail away!!

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

Call 941-383-3338.

SELL YOUR STUFF FAST!

CALL 941-955-4888 YourObserver.com/RedPages

Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals

Between

A. 2 bed/2bath. New kitchen. $9,731

RETAIL SALES Full or part time Women's clothing, jewelry, housewares.

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

B. 3 bed/2bath. $10,591

101

Turnkey finished. Open floor plan. Tastefully furnished & professionally decorated.

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

jerry cunningham, jr 941-321-8848 shortstorieslongboatkey@gmail keller williams on the water

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

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

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

RED PAGES IN PRINT AND ONLINE

A POWERFUL COMBINATION 941-955-4888

YourObserver.com/RedPages

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

15% DISCOUNT FOR 4-WEEK RUN PLACE YOUR AD: Call: 941-955-4888 Email: RedPages@ YourObserver.com Online: YourObserver.com /RedPages

Adult Care Services

EPIC HOME CARE Personal Care-Respite Care Alzheimer’s Care Light Cleaning Med Administration Meal Prep Shopping, Errands & More Call for a FREE Evaluation!

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

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.

SARASOTA INTERIOR PAINTING HIGH-END INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING WE ARE THE BEST!!!

Residential & Commercial.

Fully Insured.

CALL or TEXT Don 941-900-9398

This week’s Crossword answers

Advertise as low as $17.50 per week!

Beachfront, Bayfront and In

Open floorplan directly on the Gulf of Mexico. Every room has a view of the water...watch waves roll in from the living room couch or balcony outside your bedroom.

Auto Transport

AD RATES

GARAGE SALE

SEASONAL RATES

Call for details

RECUMBENT CATRIKE 700.

RECUMBENT CATRIKE 700.

Power assist, new tires, chain.

Power assist, tires, chain. $2,499.

Call-new 616.638.6141 $2,499. Call- 616.638.6141

GREAT OPPORTUNITY close to AMI, no flood insurance, 3 bed 2 bath 2 car/garage. Private pool. $699,900

WEEKLY MONTHLY

jobs

WANTED TO BUY Vintage Costume Jewelry, porcelain, pottery, art. Jane M. (941) 356-1568

*This position must be performed in the office. No remote work is available.

“SHORT STORIES” by jerry cunningham, jr

General Merchandise

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

Please email your resume and WPM typing speed for immediate consideration to kboothroyd@businessobserverfl. com. Please also specify your available date to start.

Condos/Apts. for Rent

Or Visit: AntiquesandChatchkes.com Estate Sales Conducted by: Antiques & Chatchkes

Merchandise Wanted

The ideal candidate will have strong computer software and hardware skills. Familiarity with Adobe InDesign and Filemaker Pro is a plus. Florida notary certification is also a plus.

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

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

For more information call Ken at: 941-356-3318

SERIOUS BUSINESS - Quality men’s suits / jackets. All season, top labels. Like new. 40 x 31.

Alterable. 941-776-9601

THE BUSINESS OBSERVER newspaper is seeking a fastpaced, detail-oriented Proofreader / Typist for a full-time position in Sarasota, Florida. Hours are 9am5pm, Mon-Fri. Candidates must be able to type at least 75 WPM with great accuracy and proofread typed material and make corrections. Attention to detail is a MUST. Proofreading entails finding errors in the typed print that varies from the original document, not actually editing the documents for errors.

real estate

Garage/ Moving/ Estate Sales

auto

stuff

Help Wanted

4BR/2BA RENOVATED Longboat Key Canal home DEEDED BEACH ACCESS. Open Floor plan. NEW EVERYTHING, Roof, Impact Windows, Porcelain Floors, Boat & Kayak lift.

Tracy (813) 267-1312 Tracy@AgentSRQ.com

Longboat Key, FL 34228 M-F

©2022 Universal Uclick

You’re only cheating yourself.

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.

peekers’ place

INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888

redpages@yourobserver.com • yourobserver.com/redpages

home services

RED PAGES

RED PAGES

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “I wanted to show that Martin Luther King (Jr.) was simply a human being, not a god, not a saint.”

Ralph Abernathy Puzzle Two Solution: “The Ten Commandments are not prefaced with, ‘If you’re in the mood.’”

Laura Schlessinger Puzzle Three Solution: “Secretly, I think everyone who makes fun of California really does want to be in California.”

Zooey Deschanel

This week’s Sudoku answers

Ask about our special rates!

Wagner Realty Since 1939 www.rentalsonlongboat.com

©2022 NEA, Inc.

YourObserver.com

19B

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

Attorney

Handyman

Power Washing

KEENS HANDYMAN SERVICES

Divorce without Lawyers

Pressure Washing

INTERIOR RENOVATIONS & ANYTHING FROM THE GROUND UP KEENS HANDYMAN SERVICES

Honesty, Integrity and Pride

418120

TEXT OR CALL 574-354-7772

• Roofs • Pool Cages • Decks • Driveways Roofs • Pool Cages • Decks • Driveways ••Deck/Paver Sealing • Gutter Cleaning • Deck/PaverAnd Sealing • And Much More Much More!

Health

Serving Sarasota/Manatee Area Since 2004

418823

GET YOUR LIFE BACK!

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

Do You Have Neck or Low Back Pain?

Do You Want To Avoid Surgery?

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

941-544-1066 | scaperotta@aol.com Italian American Owned

Roofing

Give Us a Call - We Can Help

Kenneth Fuhlman Inc.

FREE CONSULTATION 941.358.2224

William J. Leininger, JD

Building & Roofing Contractor

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

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

Board Certified in the specialty of non-surgical spinal decompression

416037

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

DR. DAVID CIFRA, DC

941-626-3194

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

SELL YOUR CAR!

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

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.com

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

WE COME TO YOU

BLACK LABEL CAR SERVICE

415948

FAST • EASY • SAFE

Luxury for Less

941-248-4734

MIC INSURANCE

416038

HoHoBuysCars.com Caregiver/Companion

416042

Insurance

5-Star Rated

chrome_qrcode_1671726737617.png

Transportation

EXPERIENCE KNOWLEDGE SOLUTIONS

10% off

Airports, Concerts, Dinners & Cruises www.towncarservicebradenton.com 410036

Auto Service

BEFORE

AFTER

416041

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.

941.270.4400

Pressure Washing

Windows

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

1/1

Serving Longboat Key Since 2005 Res. | Com. | Lic. | Ins.

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

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

Doors 415950

Sliding Glass Door Repair

Formerly known as Sunrise Windows UP TO

Home • Condo • Auto • Umbrella • Boat • Flood

415943

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

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

INCLUDING SCREENS, TR ACKS, MIRRORS & FANS

SPECIAL 00

Landscaping & Lawn

LANDSCAPING • LANDSCAPE CLEANUP • PRUNING • WEEDING Flowers, Palms, Container Gardening, Tree Trimming

Painting

NEED HELP?

www.sunsetwindowcleaningsrq.com

PURIFIED WATER WINDOW CLEANING AVAIL ABLE!!

Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES 941- 284 - 5880

ON TARGET

High End Interior & Exterior Painting Services

Furniture Repair

Patio Furniture Repairs.com

OBSERVER RED PAGES

415946

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

418033

FULLY INSURED • OWNER OPERATED

Furniture Sales & Repairs Cushions • Slings • Re-powdercoating

FREE PICKUP / DELIVERY • FREE ONSITE QUOTES

senior citizen discount.

RIGHT

SARASOTA INTERIOR PAINTING, LLC

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

YourObserver.com/RedPages

941-504-0903

417929

CALL 941-302-3933

416039

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

5

$

Gardener On Call

“FIX IT - DON’T REPLACE”

150

25 $

STANDARD WINDOWS

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

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

Insurance

SECUR-ALL INSURANCE AGENCY 510 BAY ISLES ROAD, SUITE 1 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL (Next to SUNTRUST BANK)

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

416040

Sandra Smith | 941.383.3388

20B

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

NEW LISTING

Leading the market in 2024!

Wishing you Happy Holidays and Peace in the New Year!

NEW LISTING

TOP 0.5%

of 1.46M Realtors

Top Small Team Sarasota/Manatee Counties

$3+ Billion

GRAND BAY II - LONGBOAT KEY

$2,495,000

3040 GRAND BAY BLVD., #283 | 3BR/3BA | 2,550 SQ FT 8th Floor Sunrises over the Bay & City AND Sunsets on the Gulf of Mexico | Custom Updated Kitchen Built-In Office Area | New Porcelain Tile & Oak Wood Floors | Private Elevator Foyer Pet-Friendly Community | Excellent Amenities | Includes Private Beach Club

Career Sales Volume

Top 100 Agents RealTrends — All Florida

NEW 6401 GULF OF LISTING MEXICO DRIVE LONGBOAT KEY $5,875,000

54 Years

4BR/4BA | 3,037 SQ FT | 3-CAR GARAGE Custom Modern Masterpiece | 2022 Rebuild | Exquisite Outdoor Entertaining w/New Pool & Spa and Rooftop Lounge | Furnishings Available | Ready for Immediate Occupancy | All New Hurricane Impact Windows & Sliders | Full-Home Backup Generator

Combined Real Estate Experience

NEW LISTING

www.ackermansrq.com RYAN ACKERMAN (305) 205-7700

THE ACKERMAN GROUP

BARBARA ACKERMAN (941) 780-6045

EN PROVENCE - LONGBOAT KEY

$4,450,000

2151 GULF FAIRWAY BAY OF MEXICO DR. #5 | 3BR/3BA | 3,400 SQ FT LONGBOAT KEYSunset Views |$829,000 Outstanding Gourmet Kitchen | High Ceilings | Private Elevator to Residence | Wood

941.387.1820

1922Floors HARBOURSIDE DR., #1101 | w/Gas 2BR/2BA TOWNHOME | Summer Kitchen Grill | Private Oversized 2-Car Garage & Storage | Lives Like a Home Updated Kitchen & Baths | Finished A/C Bonus & Recreational Area | Private 2-Car Garage Direct Front | Gated Community Outstanding Wood FloorsGulf | Fireplace Resort-Style Amenitieswith Private Beach Club Amenities Membership

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING | OPEN SUN 1-4

CONDO ON THE BAY TOWER II - DOWNTOWN

$1,395,000

988 BLVD OF THE ARTS #816 | 2BR/2BA | 1,555 SQ FT | Incredible Bay, Bridge & Sunset Views | Screened-In Tiled Waterfront Balcony | Custom Updates | Pet-Friendly Community

GRAND BAY V - LONGBOAT KEY

GRAND BAY I - LONGBOAT KEY

3060 GRAND BAY BLVD., #112 3BR/2BA | 2,250 SQ FT Completely Updated | Fully Furnished | NW Corner Residence Fet-Friendly | Socially Active Community | Private Beach Club | Resort Style Amenities

$2,249,000

$2,249,000

PENDING SALE GRAND BAY II - LONGBOAT KEY

$4,750,000

CHEROKEE PARK - WEST OF THE TRAIL

THE SEA BREEZE - SIESTA KEY

$5,985,000

1655 SOUTH DR. | 5BR/5 FULL BA & 4.5 HALF BA | 6,355 SQ FT Luxury Estate Home | 2,000 Bottle Wine Room | Private Casita | Whole-Home Generator

GRAND BAY II - LONGBOAT KEY

$2,375,000

455 LONGBOAT CLUB RD, PH #4 5BR/4.5BA + OFFICE l 1,100 SQ FT of TERRACE 17 FT Ceilings l Year-round Sunrises & Sunsets I 360 Degree Views of the Gulf, Bay, Downtown, Siesta Key & John Ringling FAIRWAY BAY LONGBOAT KEY Bridge I On-site Mgt,-Guest Suites, Fitness & More

$5,985,000

3040 GRAND BAY BLVD., #221 3BR/3.5BA | 2,925 SQ FT Furnished | 2 Garage Parking Spaces | Wraparound Terrace | 10 FT Ceilings Pet-Friendly | Private Beach Club Resort Style Amenities

3040 GRAND BAY BLVD., #221 | 3BR/3.5BA | 2,925 SQ FT Furnished | 2 Garage Parking Spaces | Wraparound Terrace | 10 FT Ceilings | Pet-Friendly

PIERRE - LONGBOAT KEY

$1,795,000

1655 SOUTH DRIVE 5BR/5 FULL BA & 4.5 HALF BA | 6,355 SQ FT Luxury Estate Home | 2,000 Bottle Wine Room | Private Casita | Whole-Home Generator |Rear 3-Car Garage | Gourmet Cooks Kitchen | Resort Style Pool 15 FT Above Flood Impact Windows & Sliders

3080 GRAND BAY BLVD., #533 | 2BR/2BA | 1,329 SQ FT 2 Large Private Terraces | Rarely Available Capri Floor Plan | Floor-to-Ceiling Windows & Sliders 2 Garage Parking Spaces | Pet Friendly | Sunrise & Sunset Views

3060 GRAND BAY BLVD., #112 | 3BR/2BA | 2,250 SQ FT | Completely Updated Fully Furnished | NW Corner Residence | Pet-Friendly w/ World-Class Amenities

360 NORTH POINT RD. | 3BR/3.5BA | 2,913 SQ FT 2-Car Detached Garage | New Construction | Rare Oversized Tropical Private Lot

CHEROKEE PARK WEST OF TRAIL

$975,000

GRAND BAY I - LONGBOAT KEY

OAKS - WEST OF THE TRAIL

$2,375,000

LAWRENCE POINTE - DOWNTOWN

$2,169,000

101 SUNSET DR., #402 | 3BR/3BA | 2,179 SQ FT | Direct Bay Front Updated | Quiet Downtown Location | Low Condominium Fees | Under-Building Parking

$2,900,000

9008 MIDNIGHT PASS RD., #5 | 3BR/3.5BA | 3,700 SQ FT Private 2-Car Garage & Roof Top Terrace | Full-Floor Penthouse 10 FT Ceilings | 2 New A/C Units | Deeded Boat Dock

LAWRENCE POINTE - DOWNTOWN

$2,169,000

101 SUNSET DR., #402 | 3BR/3BA | 2,179 SQ FT Updated | Quiet Downtown Location | Low Condominium Fees Under-Building Parking | Unobstructed Sunset Views

$829,000

GRAND BAY V - LONGBOAT KEY

$975,000

$949,000

THE SEA BREEZE - SIESTA KEY

$2,900,000

SORRENTO SHORES - MAINLAND

449 SOUTH SHORE DR. | 3BR/3BA | 2,564 SQ FT Large Glass Sliders | Outdoor Lap Pool w/Waterfall | Quiet cul-de-sac Setting

9008 MIDNIGHT PASS RD., #5 | 3BR/3.5BA | 3,700 SQ FT Private 2-Car Garage & Roof Top Terrace | Full-Floor Penthouse | 10 FT Ceilings

ST. ARMANDS OFFICE LOCATION • 443 JOHN RINGLING BLVD., STE., F | SARASOTA, FL 34236

415550-1

3080 GRAND BAY BLVD., #533 | 2BR/2BA | 1,413 SQ FT 1922 HARBOURSIDE DR., #1101 | 2BR/2BA TOWNHOME ST.A/C ARMANDS LOCATION 443 JOHN RINGLING F | Private SARASOTA, FL 34236 2 Large Terraces | Rarely Available Capri Floor Plan | Floor-to-Ceiling Windows & Sliders Updated Kitchen & Baths | Finished Bonus &OFFICE Recreational Area •| Private 2-Car Garage BLVD., STE.,