Longboat Observer 2.29.24

LONGBOAT

SEASON SPRING 2024

Observer

T H E O B S E R V E R ’S G

U I D E TO T H E A R TS

AND SOCIETY

Longboat Key’s weekly newspaper since 1978

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FREE • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

VOLUME 46, NO. 29

YOUR TOWN

You’ve got mail — eventually Construction has some Country Club Shores residents missing their mail. SEE PAGE 4A

SEA OF CELEBRATION

Courtesy image

Josh the Otter and Janet Shapiro

Calling community members The town of Longboat Key is hosting its Community Open House from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday, March 9, at the Town Center Green.

Assistant to the Town Manager Susan Phillips is currently coordinating the event and is looking for participants.

Any part of the community is invited to participate, she said, including town government departments, nonprofit organizations and local businesses.

The event will have live music at the pavilion, food trucks and local businesses providing refreshments.

Last year’s event was held at Bayfront Park, but the town decided to move it to the Town Center Green this year to provide more space.

Phillips already has a long list of participants but is looking to round up anyone else interested soon to finalize the layout of the event.

For more information or to join, contact SPhillips@ LongboatKey.org or call 941316-1955.

St. Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church celebrates 50th anniversary. PAGE 1B Petra Rivera

Bob Soper and Linda Olsen raise a glass to celebrate St. Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church’s 50th anniversary.

A+E Courtesy image

Henry Lammers poses during a 2022 Savor the Sounds concert.

Weather wipeout

The Savor the Sounds soulRcoaster concert on Feb. 17 was postponed due to rainy weather.

The concert will take place5:30-7 p.m. on March 30 at the Karon Family Pavilion in the Town Center Green.

Another concert featuring “the ultimate ’60s experience” Yesterdayze is planned for March 16. The times are the same for that concert as well.

For both, gates will open at 4:30 p.m. at the Town Center Green. General admission prices are $25 in advance or $35 at the door.

If you already purchased tickets for the Feb. 17 concert, contact the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce at 941383-2466.

Carter Weinhofer

Longboat Key was the only department in Sarasota County without accreditation, until now.

Official recognition Key police met 235 standards for state accreditation. PAGE 3A

High praise for ‘Ruby’ INSIDE

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

waste on Wednesdays.

While some residents emailed commissioners with concerns over how the service affects roads, Town Manager Howard Tipton said is something that can be looked at with the next contract.

“In terms of wear and tear on the road, there is some impact of these trucks running up and down the roads,” Tipton said. “We can look at that in three years, but our recommendation is based on the existing levels of service.”

With this new contract agreement, Brownman said staff negotiated the annual CPI increase down from 4% to 3%. He also said staff asked that the 3% increase not be added on the first term if the increased rates are approved, to which Waste Management agreed.

INCREASES FROM INFLATION

Courtesy image

Several factors have led to Waste Management’s residential trash collection rate increase request.

Costs up for pickup Waste Management proposes a 28% rate increase for residential trash collection requesting a 28% increase in residential collection rates due to a variety of factors related to cost increases.

The contract renewal asks for a 28% increase in residential rates, from the current monthly rate of $17.56 to a proposed $22.60. That’s a difference of $5.04.

“With this renewal period, Waste Management has asked for higherthan-normal rate increases than what’s normally allowed for in our contract due to the inflationary

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

W

ith the town of Longboat Key’s trash collection contract up for renewal, Waste Management is requesting a “higherthan-normal” increase.

At the town’s Feb. 20 workshop, Director of Public Works Isaac Brownman explained to commissioners that Waste Management is

pressures that have happened since essentially 2020,” Brownman said.

Waste Management Inc. has been the town’s trash collection provider through contract agreements for the past 30 years.

The base term of the existing contract began on July 1, 2014, and lasted until June 30, 2021. That contract also allowed for two optional, threeyear renewals, the first of which is up this summer.

An extension of the current level of service would go through June 30, 2027.

Waste Management collects trash twice a week on the island, on Mondays and Thursdays. Recycling is also picked up on Mondays, and yard

Brownman explained to commissioners that this rate increase is mainly being caused by increased costs for labor and maintenance.

Direct labor costs have increased about 26% since 2021, according to Brownman’s presentation. That accounts for things like increased costs searching for applicants and higher sign-on incentives, as well as wage increases.

Truck maintenance costs were also the other big factor contributing to the latest rate increase.

According to numbers provided

by Waste Management, the cost to replace a tire on the trucks has increased 124% since 2020, from $811.11 to $1,008.91 in 2023.

Brake replacement for one set of brakes on one axle increased 185%, from $697.83 in 2020 to $1,291.64 in 2023.

The rolled steel needed to replace one floor on a truck body increased from $1,900 in 2020 to $3,700 in 2023, a 194% increase.

Waste Management’s fleet doesn’t use diesel, but rather compressed natural gas. Those costs have also risen. Though it’s not the same as diesel, Waste Management calculates a diesel equivalent per gallon.

That increased from $1.09 in 2020 to $1.79 in 2023.

Brownman said that he and his staff are satisfied with the level of service that Waste Management provides.

“With this renewal period, Waste Management has asked for higher-thannormal rate increases than what’s normally allowed for in our contract due to the inflationary pressures that have happened since essentially 2020” ­ Isaac Brownman, — Director of Public Works

“They provide, in our opinion, quality, consistent and reliable service. This is based on not just our working relationship but also feedback we get from residents,” Brownman said.

In addition, he said past citizen survey results had high marks for the Waste Management service, with specific comments about how respectful the drivers are.

“There’s no question in terms of the service … The question is the rate increase,” Brownman said.

Staff reached out to another trash collection provider, who confirmed that the industry is experiencing inflationary pressures.

Some commissioners asked Brownman and Waste Management staff if the lower operational costs during the offseason were reflected in the rate.

Jason White, district manager for Waste Management Manatee, said the rate provided is “blended,” which means it would take into account factors like that.

Brownman also suggested that extending this contract would bring the industry three years further from the COVID-19 pandemic, which was a big factor in the increased costs.

The time distance may help alleviate the costs, Brownman estimated.

Staff recommended that the contract be approved, and commissioners reached a consensus to move the contract approval to the March 4 regular commission meeting for formal action.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

3A

Certified excellence The Longboat Key Police Dept. ­received official ­accreditation on Feb. 22 after a three-year process.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

F

or the first time in its history, the Longboat Key Police Department is officially accredited.

On Feb. 22, members of the department were named an accredited police department by the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation. The decision was unanimous among the 15 commissioners.

“Things went perfect,” Chief of Police George Turner said. “Could not have gone any better.”

Now, the department gets to adorn officers with pins and the patrol vehicles with stickers to display the accreditation status.

That status is one that provides potential benefits in recruitment and retention, according to Turner.

Being an accredited agency means the department is held to a higher standard by meeting a variety of requirements. For the police accreditation, there were 235 standards that needed to be addressed, which include things like officer safety and training.

Longboat Key was the only department in Sarasota County without accreditation until now.

Town Manager Howard Tipton, Mayor Ken Schneier and Longboat Key District 1 Commissioner Gary Coffin joined the department in St. Augustine to commemorate years of behind-the-scenes work.

“All seven commissioners that we have, or have had, have always been supportive of the PD,” Turner said.

Turner said the accreditation process, which spanned over the past three years, was a team effort. Not only within his department, but across the entire town.

“There was a lot of help that we had from other departments within the town that helped us get here,” Turner said.

“Without their help, we wouldn’t

HIGH-TECH TRAINING

One of the components of Longboat Key Police Department that Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation commissioners highlighted in their review was their de-escalation training simulator.

Turner said this is something that the department started using about a yearand-a-half ago. It’s a valuable training tool that the officers use to simulate real-life scenarios, like domestic disputes and dogs on the beach.

“There’s an unlimited amount of scenarios that we can put our guys through, something you can’t really train for,” Turner said. “This makes it happen in a controlled environment where the officers can have the opportunity to learn before they’re right in the middle of it.”

It’s also something that the department has allowed nearby agencies to use.

Courtesy image

The Longboat Key Police Department accepted its accreditation from the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation.

TIMELINE TO ACCREDITATION 2021: The Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation awards the town of Longboat Key $274,850 over a three-year period for the police department’s accreditation process.

Courtesy image

Chief of Police George Turner adds the Longboat Key Police Department patch to the wall of accredited agencies.

have been able to achieve that.”

Other town departments, like finance and human resources, were not only supportive, but also played a role in the process as it related to the department’s budgeting and hiring.

The accreditation process as a whole required combing through every police department policy and making sure how the Longboat Key Police Department operates is in compliance with what it means to be a professional law enforcement agency in Florida.

ROAD TO ACCREDITATION

The process began about three years ago.

In 2021, the Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation awarded the town $274,850 to be spent over a three-year period. That money was specifically earmarked for the police department’s accreditation process.

In April of that year, Turner was hired as the interim chief of police.

He had previously worked in the department from December 2001 through October 2007.

Former Town Manager Tom Harmer hired Turner as interim chief of police because of his previous experience with the Longboat Key

Carter Weinhofer

Longboat Key Police patrol vehicles will now have an accreditation sticker (right) to show the department’s achievement.

BY THE NUMBERS

Number of full-time officers: 19 Number of part-time officers: 4 Number of civilian employees: 3

Police Department. Turner also had previous accreditation experience with four other agencies where he worked.

Starting with Turner’s interim tenure, the department began its self-assessment.

This meant going through its policy book, evidence, report filing system and other aspects of the department to see what was needed to meet standards.

Then in March 2022, Turner officially took the title of chief of police.

To prepare for the accreditation, Turner said the entire department had to review the self-assessment and make sure its policies were in line with the 235 standards of the Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation.

Not all of those apply to every agency, though. For example, the Longboat Key Police Department doesn’t have a K-9 unit, so any standards relating to that would not be included in its review.

It was still a heavy lift for everyone involved.

“Every member of the department had to buy in 100%,” Turner said. “It’s a lot more work for them.

They have to be up on every one of our policies and procedures.”

Before the department could sign into a contract stating its intent for accreditation, everything needed to be ready.

“A lot of that stuff, it took us a while to get in place,” Turner said.

“And we had to have everything in place and our house clean, per say, before we signed that contract.”

A big part of that was reviewing evidence and old reports.

“We had to go through our evidence. We purged hundreds and hundreds of pieces of evidence that no longer needed to be here,” Turner said.

He added an example, saying that years ago, people would bring items to the police department as “lost and found,” and that would be handled similarly to evidence from crime scenes. Before Harmer’s departure

from his role as town manager, he wanted to see the accreditation process really shift into gear, according to Turner.

On Jan. 4, 2023, that contract was signed, and the clock began for the department’s accreditation.

Turner said the department could have been ready for a review right then, but it needed to prove it could maintain the standards it had worked hard to get to.

But that year also brought positive changes to the department, like new officers and the addition of takehome vehicles for all officers.

Take-home vehicles aren’t something that necessarily contribute to accreditation, Turner said. But it’s something that helps the department stick out as a professional agency. It also helps with morale and recruitment.

But now that the department had vehicles for each officer, that meant more procedures to be included as a part of the accreditation review.

Turner also hired some outside help for the task at hand. Areaka Jewell and Sarah Kenniff, both law enforcement accreditation managers, were hired by Turner to help oversee the process.

Without having dedicated accreditation managers, Turner said this wouldn’t have been possible.

In November 2023, the department underwent a mock review. It had some time to review the results and make sure everything was tidy for the big test a month later.

On Dec. 5-7, 2023, three assessors from Brevard, Doral and St. Lucie counties spent 10 hours each day with the department, going through policies, equipment and talking with personnel.

After the review, Turner and his staff were confident they would receive the seal of approval. But they couldn’t yet say they were an accredited agency.

But now they can.

It’s not a one-and-done assessment, though. To maintain accreditation status, the department will be up for reaccreditation in three years.

“I plan on being here in three years to see that happen again,” Turner said.

April 2021: George Turner is hired as interim chief of police with Longboat Key Police Department. He was a captain for the Longboat Key Police Department from December 2001 through ­October 2007.

June 2021: The Longboat Key Police Department begins what Turner described as a “self-assessment,” to review all of the department’s current operating procedures.

March 2022: Turner is officially hired as chief of police.

Jan. 4, 2023: The department signs an official contract to start the clock for the accreditation review process.

Sept. 5, 2023: The Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation schedules and notifies LBKPD of final accreditation assessment November 2023: The LBKPD undergoes a mock assessment to prepare for the final assessment.

Dec. 5-7, 2023: Three assessors from other departments travel to Longboat Key for the police department’s official assessment.

Feb. 22, 2024: The LBKPD receives the first accreditation in its history.

February 2027: The department is up for reaccreditation and will have to go through the whole process again.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

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CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

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C

ountry Club Shores residents were well aware of the asbestos pipe replacement project. But what they didn’t expect was to be without mail delivery.

Lynn Larson, president of the Country Club Shores IV homeowners association, said she was alerted by a resident not receiving mail starting about two weeks ago.

“There was no warning,” Larson said.

The resident, Emmanuel Charron, and Larson realized that residents on Ranger and Halyard lanes were not receiving mail. Charron lives on Ranger Lane.

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composed of 125 homes and is a part of the total 396 homes in the entire Country Club Shores, according to the association website.

Larson said she went to the United States Postal Service office on Bay Isles Road to speak with the postmaster, Josue Pagan, about the issues.

According to her account, Pagan said some of the USPS vehicles suffered flat tires after driving through the construction areas, and he said he wouldn’t risk the safety of his drivers. Another reason was because certain construction vehicles were blocking the mailboxes.

After her initial meeting with the postmaster, the advice she was given was to have residents come to the post office to collect their mail, she said.

“Getting the mail at the post office isn’t a big deal, except for traffic, but some people don’t drive,” Charron said. “And some people don’t have the time. So I don’t think that’s the preferred backup.”

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

SOURCE OF THE PROBLEM

Pagan was unable to make an official statement pursuant to USPS policy,

WATER MAIN REPLACEMENT The construction is a part of a project to replace the 15,000 linear feet of water main piping in Country Club Shores. The old pipes were made of asbestos cement, an outdated method.

The first two phases of the project are in Country Club Shores IV and V. According to previous reporting, construction on Country Club Shores V was anticipated to last until late spring or early summer, and work in Country Club Shores IV would go through early 2025.

and an emailed attempt to receive a statement from a regional public information officer was unanswered by the Longboat Observer’s print deadline.

But Pagan did email Public Works staff to address the issue, which was forwarded to Town Manager Howard Tipton.

Emails sent to public officials are public record.

In the email, Pagan said, “Due to the construction and vehicles blocking the mail boxes (also pipe lines on the sidewalk making it impossible to pull in mailboxes) we are unable to provide delivery service.”

On the USPS website, a frequently asked question section about not receiving mail provided some additional insight.

According to the site, there are certain conditions that could prevent mail delivery, including: mailbox blocked, travel obstructions and hazardous conditions/natural disasters.

Under the “Mailbox blocked” section, the site states that drivers should get out of the vehicle to deliver the mail if the box is temporarily blocked.

“However, if the carrier continually experiences a problem in serving curb line or rural boxes where the customer is able to control on street parking, the postmaster may withdraw delivery service,” the site goes on to say.

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Charron said that while driving to the post office may be OK for some residents, some of the older neighbors might not drive or have a more urgent need for their mail.

“There are people waiting for medicine; there are people waiting for checks,” Charron said. “And they do care.”

The drive from Ranger Lane to the post office is 2.4 miles, about a seven-minute drive without traffic.

Further, Larson said that residents have been able to drive down the streets, albeit cautiously.

Waste Management has also been able to make pickups work on the affected streets, according to Charron.

“Why on earth wouldn’t a smaller truck, like the post office truck, not make its way through? It makes no sense,” Charron said.

Larson said the community doesn’t have any issues with the construction being done, and Charron said the construction crews have been “incredibly understanding.”

The two also said that while it isn’t the town’s issue to solve, town staff have been helpful as conduits between Country Club Shores and the post office.

According to Larson, Public Works Construction & Facility System Manager Guy Matricciani has been trying to work things out among all parties.

Matricciani and other staff went to the post office to talk with Pagan, which led to three potential solutions.

First would be the current conditions: Residents pick up their mail at the post office. There’s also the option to select one person’s house to be the location where all the mail on the street would be delivered, then allowing residents to get their mail from that location.

The third option is to have a temporary mailbox system at a designated location. Those structures usually have over 16 individual mailboxes.

Charron said he thinks the temporary mailboxes would be the preferred option. But he also added that mail service as usual would be the best option.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

Thoughts into (climate) action Sarasota Bay Estuary Program Director Dave Tomasko reflects on climate award and future challenges.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

D

ave Tomasko is a master of analogies.

It’s one of the characteristics that makes him a good science communicator.

Tomasko has been executive director of the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program since 2020 but has over 30 years of experience in water quality science and science-based management. His experience and ability to be a voice for what needs to be done are part of the reason he was named a 2024 Southwest Florida Climate Champion by the Climate Adaptation Center.

On Feb. 15, the center held a recognition ceremony for the five nominated Climate Champions, dubbed by the CAC website as “Southwest Florida’s most influential and accomplished contributors to the cause of protecting our environment and our Florida way of life.” Along with Tomasko, the awards recognized Jessica Meszaros, WUSF Public Media; Marshall Gobuty, Pearl Homes; Steve Newborn, WUSF Public Media; and Jennifer O. Rominiecki, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.

For Tomasko, it’s not about the recognition. He said he’s been delivering the messages about environmental issues the same way for decades and, while the awards are appreciated, the messages stay the same.

The Longboat Observer spoke with Tomasko for insight into his career thus far and what he sees for the future of the area’s environment.

What drove your initial pursuit of a career in this field?

Sitting on my grandparents’ carpet watching Jacques Cousteau specials. I come from a family background of coal miners and steel-

workers and postal workers, so my relatives were either climbing down into mines or going into steel mills.

And we would watch Jacques Cousteau and I’d be lying on the carpet watching it … and I was just entranced, I thought it was magical.

From an early stage, I wanted to do something as a marine scientist or on the water.

What do you feel has been the greatest success story you’ve been a part of?

Originally, it was the initial recovery of Sarasota Bay back in the early 1990s. Sarasota Bay in the early ’90s was better than it was in the ’70s and ’80s.

And it was really a nationally and internationally known success story. It was neat to be around here to see the bay’s recovery.

And then we lost it.

What I’m really, really proud of, is this community investing money to bring about the second recovery.

We know we can do this, but the response has to be commensurate with the magnitude of the problem.

What do you feel is the biggest environmental obstacle that needs to be tackled in the next decade?

I think in the next 10 years, the idea that we are in a changing climate is going to become clearer to more people.

Folks in Longboat Key Village said they have flooding twice a month … our water level has come up about six inches in the last 20 years. That (flooding) is going to happen more often.

And one of the biggest issues, frankly, is the scariness of hurricanes and tropical storms. What is very clear is that there is an increase in the frequency of powerful hurricanes. (Last summer), our water temperature in the Gulf of Mexico

Janet Combs

was higher than 90 degrees, and parts of our bay were higher than 95.

I think when people see the pictures of the almost 100 people that died when Hurricane Ian came ashore, that could easily happen to us. You’d have water completely over our barrier islands.

What’s something that gives you hope for future environmental progress?

When I talk to younger kids, they get it. They understand that they’re being handed a world that’s different than what their parents inherited.

I think the first step is awareness. If we don’t admit we have a problem, we’re never going to fix it, and I think that younger people are more aware of it.

We need people to realize that you can turn things around, but you have to identify the problems, you have to identify the solutions, and you have to devote enough money.

What would be your big piece of advice for that next generation?

You don’t convince people by yell-

ing at them. I think we need to find the reason why people are skeptical about climate change.

Don’t exaggerate. We’re not talking about six feet of sea level rise, we’re talking about nine inches in the next three years. We think it’s better to understate than to overexaggerate.

But also, take it seriously and then try to find ways to turn your thoughts into actions. I think part of it really is to understand how serious it is.

Winner of the CAC Beacon Award Dave Tomasko, executive director of the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program

What is something you are looking forward to seeing happen this year?

We’re trying to get the conditions right to map our seagrasses. We know our water quality is recovering, we know our seagrasses are coming back … we know we’re going to have a big seagrass increase, I just don’t know what the number is.

That number will come out next year. The mapping takes a lot to turn out. And when that happens, then I’m going to be able to say, “see, we knew we could do it.”

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SR 789 (Longboat Key) PD&E Study

VIRTUALLY: March 12, 2024, 6 – 7 p.m.

Where: GoToWebinar (register in advance – https://tinyurl.com/LBKSR789) IN‐PERSON: March 14, 2024 anytime between 5 and 7 p.m.

Where: In person at Christ Church 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key, FL 34228 FPID No. 436676‐1 FDOT Project Contact: Patrick Bateman, P.E. (863) 519‐2792 Patrick.Bateman@dot.state.fl.us

LIVE ONLINE OPTION: Register in advance: https://tinyurl.com/LBKSR789 Tuesday, March 12, 2024 6 – 7 p.m.

This event will include a viewing of the project video and a live questionand-answer component with the project team. Please review the materials on the project webpage before attending the virtual event (https://www.swflroads.com/project/436676-1). Materials will be posted by March 5, 2024.

IN-PERSON OPTION: Thursday, March 14, 2024 Anytime between 5 – 7 p.m.

Christ Church 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key, FL 34228 This will include a looping video (no formal presentation) and the project team will be available for discussions.

If you are unable to attend the meeting, comments can be provided through the project webpage and questions can be answered by calling the FDOT project manager Patrick Bateman, P.E. at (863) 519-2792.

FDOT is sending notices to property owners, business owners, interested persons and organizations within 300 feet of the project to provide the opportunity to give comments to FDOT regarding this project. FDOT solicits public participation without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, or family status.

People who require special accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act or who require translation services (free of charge) should contact Cynthia Sykes, District One Title VI Coordinator, at (863) 519-2287, or email at Cynthia.Sykes@dot.state.fl.us at least seven days prior to the alternatives public workshop.

The environmental review, consultation, and other actions required by applicable Federal environmental laws for this project are being, or have been, carried out by FDOT pursuant to 23 U.S.C. §327 and a Memorandum of Understanding dated May 26, 2022 and executed by FHWA and FDOT.

420690-1

Alternatives Public Workshop

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) invites you to an alternatives public workshop for the SR 789 (Longboat Key) Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study (FPID 436676-1) from North Shore Road to Coquina Park Entrance in Manatee County. The alternatives public workshop is being conducted to present information about potential bridge replacement alternatives and to provide the opportunity for the public to express their views about the project.

You can participate live online or in-person. The same materials will be displayed at both the online and in-person events.

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

7A

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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. The renderings, terms, conditions, and statements contained in these materials are proposed only, and the Developer reserves the right to modify, or withdraw any or all of same in its sole discretion and without prior notice. 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. 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.

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

OPINION / OUR VIEW

LONGBOAT

Start spreading the news Out with the old, in the with the new. The Observer may be the only newspaper company in the country installing new news racks.

“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

EMILY WALSH

A

fter reaching an agreement with the city of Sarasota, our company, the Observer Media Group, is taking responsibility for replacing and updating all the rundown newspaper stands in downtown Sarasota and St. Armands Circle.

In many big cities, empty, often blighted newspaper stands dot the streets, reflecting the changed newspaper industry. In downtown Sarasota and St. Armands Circle, newspaper stands may not be empty, but you’ve seen them — rusted, often marked with graffiti and often filled with trash.

We’re changing that.

Starting next week, new modular news racks will start appearing on the east end of Main Street and work their way west to the bayfront and out to St. Armands Circle.

In March 2020, downtown merchants brought vandalized newspaper stands to the City Commission’s attention in an effort to have the modular news rack at the intersection of Main Street and Lemon Avenue taken out because they believed the racks contributed to issues associated with criminal behavior.

Ultimately, that news rack was removed, resulting in the start of discussions between the Observer and city of Sarasota.

AESTHETICS FIRST

In the early 1990s, when the newspaper industry was booming, news racks were first brought to the city’s attention because a proliferation of singular news racks installed downtown caused concern that the racks would damage the city’s aesthetics.

Thus, the city adopted Ordinance 98-4089 that designated St. Armands Key, Bird Key and Lido Key as a “News rack Improvement District” that required publications to be distributed in “news information centers (aka modular news racks).” This continued as a pilot program through 1998 when the City Commission held a workshop to discuss using a third-party vendor, City Solutions Inc., to administer the modular news racks.

This proposal sparked outrage from area publishers, including the Tampa Tribune and St. Petersburg Times (now Tampa Bay Times) claiming First Amendment rights violations.

After working with newspaper publishers for two years, the city further expanded the code with Ordinance 99-4152, which tapped the Sarasota Herald-Tribune as the

Calab Stanton

PARTICIPATING PUBLICATIONS ■ Coastal Angler ■ DSA Downtown City Guide ■ Florida Mariner ■ The Happy Thrifter ■ Jewish News ■ MustDo ■ Taste ■ Ticket ■ West Coast Woman RACK LOCATIONS ■ 1970 Main St. ■ 1991 Main St. ■ 1777 Main St. ■ 1605 Main St. ■ 1661 Ringling Blvd.

■ 5 Bayfront Drive ■ 500 John Ringling Blvd.

■ 410 St. Armands Circle

leader of a voluntary program.

The Herald-Tribune installed and maintained the modular news racks on behalf of participating publications, which included the Observer Media Group’s publication the Longboat Observer, within city limits. This ordinance included a provision that prohibited the placement, installation or maintenance of any singular news rack within 250 feet of a modular news rack.

Because the program worked so well, the city adopted another ordinance, 04-4551, in 2004 that increased that minimum required distance to 500 feet.

Over the years, similar situations have occurred on Siesta Key and Bradenton Beach, with the Sarasota County Commission and city of Bradenton Beach following and modifying Sarasota’s codes.

NEW(S) RACKS

After nearly 20 years of distributing area publications through the modular news racks, the Sarasota Herald-Tribune’s parent company, GateHouse Media (now Gannett), pulled out of operating and maintaining the news racks. To no surprise, that led to the current state of disrepair.

But after a 2020 City Commission meeting, the Observer Media Group partnered with the Down-

town Sarasota Alliance in a test case to clean up the modular news rack at Bayfront Park by repainting the racks red. While the fresh coat of paint did make the rack more visually appealing, everyone involved agreed: Brand new racks would be the best course of action.

It took more than two years, but in April 2023, our company and the city entered an agreement allowing the Observer to perform the lead role to install, own, repair, operate, maintain and remove modular news racks in the city in accordance with the city code.

The Observer Media Group and nine other publications (see box) made a $24,000 investment in the new racks, with the Observer covering 65% of the cost.

Finding a rack maker was no simple task. As we all have seen the decline of daily newspapers, there aren’t many companies still making or distributing modular news racks.

We found one in Yoakum, Texas — Mechanism Exchange & Repair Inc. But because our order was so large, its spokesman told us the company did not have any of the parts in stock, and the racks needed to be fabricated from scratch.

He said it would take about four months.

Finally, the new modular news racks are here. We will begin removal of the old racks and installation of the new racks with the unit at 1970 Main St. We’re estimating it will take six to eight weeks to complete the entire project.

Investing in modular news racks is not only important to us and our media colleagues, but these racks are important to the businesses that advertise in our publications. Our mission at the Observer is to inspire our audiences with extraordinary local content and to help our partners prosper. And to ensure we are fulfilling our mission, we need to get our news and information to you, our readers, everywhere you are in a safe, clean and easy way.

After a meeting with the city to map out our installation plan, the Observer’s circulation manager exclaimed, “I think we’re the only newspaper in the country putting in new racks!”

He might be right, and we’re proud of it.

A rendering of the new modular news rack located at 1970 Main Street.

Director of Advertising / Jill Raleigh, JRaleigh@YourObserver.com Regional Sales Director / 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 McGuinness, RMcGuinness@ 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

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 MWalsh@YourObserver.com President / Emily Walsh Chairman Emeritus / David Beliles Vice President / Lisa Walsh (1995-2023) 8130 Lakewood Main St., Suite D207 Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 941-755-5357

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

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

Flavor profile

“We wanted something that would compliment coffee. Gelato goes handin-hand with coffee, and since it is like the same business, you can still have coffee with gelato.”

— Justina Carter

On the eve of their one-year anniversary, the Sips coffee shop owners expand with gelato storefront.

STAFF WRITER

T

he first year of a business can be make or break.

For Sips, celebrating one year on Longboat Key also means a new business expansion: gelato.

Owners Justina and Chris Carter opened Sips in March 2023, focused on coffee, juices and smoothies — hence the name, Sips. But months of behind-the-scenes planning have them ready for their new gelato shop to open under the Sips name in the space next to the coffee shop in Whitney Beach Plaza.

The couple is aiming for March 1 to be the soft opening of their gelato shop expansion. Also on that day, they are planning to throw a special event at Sips all day long, potentially including giveaways.

Remodeling of the space was nearing completion days before March 1. All that was left was to put on a couple finishing touches and get the gelato in the display coolers.

The gelato will most likely be from a local wholesale distributor, the Carters said. Their goal is to transition into making their own gelato on-site in the near future.

There are 13 spots in the display cooler for gelato, which means there could be up to 13 different flavors.

Justina Carter said there might be two tubs of a popular flavor, and there will be dairy-free options.

SIPS COFFEE SHOP 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. TuesdaySunday, 6828 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Visit SipsLBK.com

Photos by Carter Weinhofer

Lorenzo Condensa, Justina Carter and Chris Carter.

Sips is currently open Tuesday through Sunday from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. But when the new spot opens, they plan to open that side around noon and remain open until around 9 p.m., or somewhere in that time range.

After Sips closes, customers will still be able to order coffee and desserts in the gelato shop. But as for lunch items like sandwiches, those won’t be served after 2 p.m.

The Carters are also thinking

about only opening the gelato side Thursdays through Sundays at the start. There’s some figuring out to do in the beginning, they said.

GETTING CREATIVE

Around August 2023, the Carters decided to start renting the adjacent space to the coffee shop that would become the gelato shop.

At first, they were using it for storage, after running out of space in their coffee shop.

Justina Carter recalled a time

The outdoor patio doubled in size after Sips began leasing an adjacent space.

before renting the space for storage.

There were days where they would run out of something like milk or paper towels, and one of them would have to run across the street to Justina’s parents business, Performance Pilates. That used to be their secondary storage.

Even when they started leasing the storage space, though, the two were thinking about what use it could have. Gelato was one of the early ideas.

“We wanted something that would compliment coffee,” Justina Carter said. “Gelato goes hand in hand with coffee, and since it is like the same business, you can still have coffee with gelato. And we feel like gelato has a richer flavor than ice cream.”

In September 2023, Justina and Chris took a trip to Italy. Justina’s brother, Lorenzo Condensa, kept the coffee shop open while the two enjoyed their trip.

On the trip, Justina Carter said the two enjoyed a lot of gelato. Sometimes twice a day.

That solidified their idea for gelato.

Back on Longboat Key, Justina and Chris worked to create their vision for the gelato shop. At the same

THE TRUSTED CHOICE //

We know that choosing where to receive care after

time, they were expanding Sips’ food menu to include new items, like eggs and chicken salad sandwiches.

One of the most challenging aspects, Justina said, was to figure out how to take a small space and turn it into a place where they could serve many customers at a time.

That’s why expanding their outdoor space was one of the most crucial parts of the expansion.

Sips always had an outdoor patio, but a wall previously separated the Sips backyard from the adjacent unit. But now that the Carters also have the lease on the adjacent space, they decided to take the outdoor wall down.

Now the patio is double the size, with more tables and chairs.

The idea is that customers can walk through the front door of the gelato shop, immediately walk to the display cooler to pick out their gelato and then walk through the line and out the back door after paying.

There’s a couple tables inside, but the outdoor patio space is what the Carters are hoping really brings the spaces together.

Condensa is looking forward to the creative potential for an outdoor space like this, maybe implementing some events in the future.

The whole family is looking forward to the expansion and sharing the experience with their loyal Longboat customers.

“It’s just an exciting adventure,” Chris Carter said. “We’re celebrating the people that supported us.

Everyone helped us out, they wanted to see us succeed. We’ve had a lot of returning customers. Without the community, we wouldn’t be here.”

Please join us at an upcoming

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417692-1

CARTER WEINHOFER

9A

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

Police Chief Rex Troche and members of the SPD command staff present 2023 crime data to the Sarasota City Commission.

Courtesy image

Zero murders in Sarasota last year

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SPD reports an overall decline in serious crimes last year and no homicides in the city for the first time in 56 years.

ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER

T

he last time Sarasota went a calendar year without a homicide, most city commissioners and staff present at the Feb. 19 meeting had not yet been born.

That was in 1967.

Fifty-six years later, Sarasota went all of 2023 without a homicide, according to a report presented to the City Commission by Sarasota Police Chief Rex Troche and members of the SPD command staff.

Arrests were up and serious crime was down in Sarasota in 2023, all of which sends notice to city residents and outsiders alike that committing crimes here will meet a robust law enforcement response.

That was the message delivered

by Troche and company as they presented the results of last year’s law enforcement efforts. Successful crime-reducing operations, high visibility and building community relations were some of the reasons for the decline in serious crime, they told commissioners.

“I would say the operations that

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we started doing, using the data and focusing on those hotspots, people know that they cannot come to Sarasota and commit a crime without being caught,” Troche said.

One example is Operation Armistice, which SPD conducted from April through August of last year.

That effort resulted in 99 arrests, 193 felony charges, 46 misdemeanor charges, 20 firearms seized, 5.63 pounds of narcotics seized and 61 traffic citations.

The entire operation was conducted with one sergeant and five officers. Among the narcotics seized, according to Capt. John Todd of the Criminal Investigations Unit, were cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin and marijuana.

“It was a data-driven and intelligence-led, proactive enforcement operation that was conducted by members of our Community Action team,” said Todd of Operation Armistice. “Before they even started the operation they got with our crime analysts to find out the who, what, when, where and why these crimes were occurring; where these crimes were occurring; the days of the week and times and locations; and potential suspects that we need to keep an eye on.

“It was just a fantastic job by them and it certainly curtailed the crime levels that we were seeing.”

Headlining SPD’s presentation, though, was a significant drop in

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

with prior experience,” said Capt.

Robert Armstrong of the Patrol Division. “They come with a whole set of tools and they’re ready to go. They’re easier to train and they can be fasttracked. We have very motivated sergeants out there training the officers every day. Right now we’re really feeling the culture and the morale is up. There’s a feeling of family.”

Commissioner Erik Arroyo asked Troche which strategies he felt were most effective in achieving the 2023 numbers.

“I think the most important thing is our use of technology that we have in the city,” Troche said. “No. 2, building the relationships with the community, I think is huge. It’s something that’s not quantitative.

It’s qualitative, and we can see the difference in the partnerships that we have.”

Visibility, Armstrong said during the presentation, is another factor.

The patrol division employs multiple details such as homeless outreach and downtown traffic, and at shift change all those Chevrolet Tahoe patrol vehicles suggest an imposing presence of law enforcement personnel.

“The police Tahoes are big, they’re bright, they have high visibility,” Armstrong said. “It just shows high visibility when there are a lot of Tahoes on the road.”

Republican Club of Longboat Key, Inc. P.O. Box 8181 Longboat Key, FL 34228-8181

DINNER MEETING!

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Our guest speaker is Fiona McFarland, of the Florida House of Representatives.

Reception: 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM Dinner / Meeting: 6:00 PM to 8 PM

NEW LOCATION: Sarasota Yacht Club 1100 Ringling Blvd.

Sarasota, FL 34236

SARASOTA CRIMES 2022-2023 2022 7 25 75 257 231 1,327 183 2,105

Murder Rape/Forcible Sex Robbery Aggravated Assault Burglary Larceny Motor Vehicle Theft Total Index Offenses

2023 0 28 74 243 146 1,129 144 1,765

% Change -100% 12.0% 0% -5.4% -36.8% -14.9% -21.3% -16.2%

GUEST SPEAKER: FIONA MCFARLAND Representative Fiona McFarland was elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 2020, and chairs the House Transportation Subcommittee. She has championed wide ranging policy from increasing case workers for child welfare services; regulating how companies use our personal data; improving 911 emergency services; and making historic investments in sea level rise, coastal resiliency, and creation of the Florida Wildlife Corridor.

ARREST COMPARISONS 2022-2023 2022 2,383 3,437 530 1,145 449 268 975

Physical Arrests Total Charges Summons Felony Arrest Charges Drug Charges Firearms Seized Warrant Arrest Charges

2023 2,733 3,957 816 1,406 1,048 310 1,097

% Change 14.7% 15.1% 53.9% 22.8% 133.4% 15.6% 12.5%

Your Luxury Lifestyle Awaits

FURNISHED MODEL HOME WITH LEASEBACK

THE WINDEMERE

SIESTA KEY WATERFRONT LOCATION

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

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MLS A4589732

$4,438,000

$4,985,000

ANTICIPATED COMPLETION FALL 2024

ANTICIPATED COMPLETION FALL 2024

THE SAND DOLLAR

THE BAHAMA

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

Representative McFarland is a 2008 graduate of the United States Naval Academy. She served as a Surface Warfare officer, deploying onboard guided missile destroyer USS Preble (DDG 88); she was a plankowner of Littoral Combat Ship USS Coronado (LCS 4); and served in the Navy Office of Information in the Pentagon. While on active duty, she also earned an MBA from University of Chapel Hill. She continued her service in the US Navy Reserves, deploying around the world for everything from antisubmarine warfare efforts above the Arctic circle, to partnership building exercises among regional African allies and partner nations.

In her civilian capacity, Fiona worked for the business management consulting firm McKinsey and Company, where she served clients across media, consumer goods, manufacturing, and advanced technology industry, consulting directly with senior executives of Fortune 500 companies.

Fiona is married to fellow Naval Academy classmate Matthew Melton and they have three young boys.

Offering Two Opportunities West of Trail 1625 Hansen St, Sarasota, FL 34231 3,157 Sq. Ft. | $2,449,000 * Rendering shown above

3934 Sunshine Ave, Sarasota, FL 34231 2,642 Sq. Ft | $1,818,000

MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS DINNER: $75

Take Advantage of These Limited Opportunities

Because we must give a final number to the Club for dinner, the deadline for reservations is 3pm, Friday, March 8th.

Reservations will not be accepted after that date. Thank you for your understanding.

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.

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

Custom Homes | West of Trail Homes | Waterfront Residences

Make your reservation online and pay securely with your credit card by going to our website: rclbk.org

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

HB Realty Group, Inc. | Licensed Real Estate Broker

Garnett Black | gblackrclbk@gmail.com 415330-1

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.

For more information, please contact our President: 420915-1

Part I crimes — homicide, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, larceny and vehicle theft — and that, for the first time since 1967, there were no homicides in the city. By contrast there were seven homicides reported In 2022.

“We had to go so far back that we’re looking at three-by-five cards,” Troche said of the records search.

Overall, Part I crimes were down 16.2% with the only category increase a 12% rise in forcible sex crime. The reduction in Part I crimes from 2022 to 2023 is the largest in the city since 1999, according to SPD. “Essentially, the things that need to go up went up (arrests) and the things that need to go down went down significantly,” Troche said.

“We did this without alienating ourselves from the community. I think it’s really important to understand that because I’ve seen agencies come up with numbers like this and they essentially become the enemy of the community. We haven’t done that. In fact, we’ve done quite the opposite.

We have built relationships within the community.”

In addition to data-driven police work, command staff cited SPD’s esprit de corps and its ability to recruit experienced officers to the department.

“We’re thankful to our recruiters hiring law enforcement officers

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

SELLING LUXURY WATERFRONT PRO

1325 Westway Drive LIDO SHORES Deep-water boating and bach club access Lido Shores!

Step into this tropical escape through the hidden courtyard that connects the 3BR main home to the private 2BR guest house, as the perfect introduction to a contemporary masterpiece built by Voight Brothers Construction. Boasting all the amenities required for modern living, the inspired architecture highlights spectacular water views from every room of this home’s 6,500+SF interior.

www.1325WestwayDrive.com

$13,995,000

97 South Washington Drive ST. ARMANDS CIRCLE

601 Lotus Lane WATERSIDE WOOD - SIESTA BAYSIDE

Discover this captivating bayfront estate, just a stroll from the vibrant heart of St. Armands Circle. Nestled across two sprawling corner lots, encompassing over 1/2 an acre, this 5BR home rests on one of the largest parcels in the neighborhood. Offered turnkey furnished, this exquisite residence spans nearly 8,000 SF, with bay and city views from nearly every room. Transition seamlessly to the outdoor living spaces through vast glass pocketing sliders on both floors, where you’ll find the ultimate in outdoor entertainment and relaxation.

Escape to paradise on Siesta Key with this exceptional custom-built waterfront home, where island living meets coastal elegance. Crafted by NC Ferguson with meticulous attention to detail and completed in 2017, this 3BR + office residence exudes quality and style, boasting recent hurricane specifications for peace of mind. Step inside the nearly 2,600 SF interior to discover a sprawling great room layout, seamlessly blending gourmet kitchen, open dining, and living areas, all adorned with Italian Argento travertine flooring that extends onto the outdoor terrace.

www.97SouthWashington.com

www.601LotusLane.com

$10,995,000

$3,595,000

WORK WITH THE BEST PROFESSIONALS FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS 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.

www.cleartitlegroup.com

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

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PERTY FOR 39 YEARS

7652 Sanderling Road SANDERLING CLUB Life at this gorgeously updated, Siesta Key beach home is a one-of-a-kind experience! Directly overlooking the coastal landscape of the Gulf of Mexico, this private estate rests on more than an acre of property, featuring 172’ of beach! Sanderling Club is the only guard gated, Gulf-front single-family neighborhood on Siesta Key. Originally designed by famed architect Robert Geddes to highlight breathtaking Gulf and striking sunset views from almost any room of this beachfront estate. www.7652Sanderling.com

$9,495,000

5610 Avenida del Mare SARASOTA BEACH - SIESTA KEY It’s all about LOCATION! Your Siesta Key dream starts here, with this completely updated compound or beach house rental opportunity, just a short sunny walk away from the infamous Siesta Key Beach. This unique property, comprising two oversized dwellings on two combined parcels, offers the chance to own a piece of paradise with numerous possibilities.

This prime location allows you to enjoy beachside living to the fullest. This compound includes two beautifully updated and meticulously maintained residences, offering incredible flexibility. www.5610AvenidadelMare.com

$6,600,000

6923 Westchester Circle LAKEWOOD RANCH COUNTRY CLUB The epitome of luxury living awaits at this custom 5BR Arthur Rutenberg home, a true gem situated on nearly half an acre within the prestigious Lakewood Ranch Country Club. This exquisite estate spans spans nearly 7,000 square feet inside, boasting five oversized bedroom suites, stateof-the-art gym, and climate-controlled wine room, offering a lifestyle of unparalleled luxury. From the wood flooring to the gourmet kitchen, custom finishes, 14-foot ceilings, and tropical oasis outdoor living space, every inch of this home exudes sophistication and attention to detail. www.6923Westchester.com

$4,695,000

NMLS#371662 - Mobile: 941.545.4384 - GRA NMLS ID 1598647 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org

Affiliated business disclosure: Coldwell Banker and Guaranteed Rate Affinity, LLC share common ownership and because of this relationship the brokerage may receive a financial or other benefit. You are not required to use Guaranteed Rate Affinity, LLC as a condition of purchase or sale of any real estate.

CALL US TODAY FOR YOUR EXCLUSIVE TOUR (941) 387-1840 443 John Ringling Blvd, Suite F, Sarasota, FL 34236 Pettingell.com | www.bestSarasotarealestate.net Roger@Pettingell.com Twitter.com/RealRoger Instagram.com/RogerPettingell 418713-1

GRIS BETTLE VP of Mortgage Lending

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

CORRECTION

COLD POOL? ASK US ABOUT

POOL HEATER MAINTENANCE

Courtesy image

The penthouse at 415 L’Ambiance Drive sold for $11 million, setting a record for Longboat Key condo sales.

Editor’s note: This story corrects a story in the Feb. 22 edition, “Top Realtors combine for $1B sales,” on the top 10 individual Realtors in the Sarasota-Manatee area. Due to incorrect methodology of determining individual agents versus groups of agents selling under one MLS number, the Observer has replaced that information with the top 25 list of agents, including groups.

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4801 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota Across from The Landings

OBSERVER STAFF

The Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee recently released a list with its top individual real estate agents for 2023 ranked by total closed sales volume.

TOP 25 REALTORS The top 25 real estate agents in Sarasota and Manatee counties by total closed sales volume in 2023: Brian Keller, Taylor Morrison Realty of Florida . . . . . . . . . $387.38 million Toni Zarghami, Keller Williams Classic Group . . . . . . . . . $149.04 million Lisa Otte, Douglas Elliman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $143.83 million Lisa Morris, Douglas Elliman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $140.63 million Gregg Center, Premier Sotheby’s International Realty . . . . $122.31 million Joel Schemmel, Premier Sotheby’s International Realty . . . $119.32 million Jason Sato, Sato Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $118.96 million Moriah Taliaferro, Premier Sotheby’s International Realty . . .$114.19 million Roger Pettingell, Coldwell Banker Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . $111.55 million Charles Buky, Coldwell Banker Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $101.59 million Bruce Myer, Coldwell Banker Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $99.39 million Reid Murphy, Developers Realty LBK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $96.7 million Steve Abbe, Coldwell Banker Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $88.08 million Renee Preininger, Sarasota Trust Realty Co. . . . . . . . . . . . $86.72 million Cliff Glansen, Flatfee.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $81.59 million Jay Travis, Re/Max Alliance Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $74.32 million Stacy Haas, Michael Saunders & Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $73.12 million Ryan Ackerman, Coldwell Banker Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . $70.76 million Carissa Pelczynski, Preferred Shore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $70.31 million Laura Rode, Keller Williams on the Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . $68.95 million Judy Kepecz-Hays, Coldwell Banker Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . $68.13 million Judie Berger, Premier Sotheby’s International Realty . . . . . . $65.79 million John Neal, Neal Communities Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $62.24 million Roberta Tengerdy, Premier Sotheby’s International Realty . . $60.33 million Tina Ciaccio, Michael Saunders & Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $59.03 million

Advice for what matters most, when you need it most Congratulations to Barcomb, Tanguay and Associates for being named to the Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” 2024 list, published on January 9, 2024.

Rankings based on data as of March 31, 2023.

Barcomb, Tanguay and Associates David A. Barcomb Managing Director Senior Financial Advisor Merrill Lynch Wealth Management 1819 Main Street Suite 1200 Sarasota, FL 34236 941.364.5602 fa.ml.com/barcomb_tanguay

2024 Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” list. Opinions provided by SHOOK® Research, LLC and is based on in-person, virtual and telephone due-diligence meetings and a ranking algorithm that measure best practices, client retention, industry experience, credentials, compliance records, firm nominations, assets under management and Firm-generated revenue (investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerance vary). SHOOK’s rankings are available for client evaluation only, are not indicative of future performance and do not represent any one client’s experience and available for investor help in evaluating the right financial advisor and not an endorsement of the advisor. Compensation was not received from anyone for the rankings study. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Details available at the SHOOK Research website. SHOOK is a registered trademark of SHOOK Research, LLC. Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (MLPF&S) is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, and Member SIPC. Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC and MLPF&S are wholly owned subsidiaries of Bank of America Corporation.

The Bull Symbol and Merrill are registered trademarks of Bank of America Corporation. © 2024 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

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Our Answer To Cancer Our answer to cancer is an eight-story oncology tower outfitted with nine operating rooms and robotic surgery capabilities.

Our answer to cancer is a radiation oncology center equipped with state-of-the-art medical technology, delivering individualized care with laser precision.

Our answer to cancer is a multidisciplinary team of oncologists and nurses, surgeons and support staff providing the full continuum of care, from diagnosis and intervention to remission and survivorship, and backed by one of the best public health systems in the nation.

Our answer to cancer is the Brian D. Jellison Cancer Institute, and we’re saying it louder every day.

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

COPS CORNER

16A

FRIDAY, FEB. 16

SHINE DOWN 5:41 a.m., 700 block of Old Compass Road Officer Public Service: An officer was dispatched to talk with a resident who called to report a bright light disturbance. The complainant said that a contractor across the canal was working early in the morning with a bright light that was shining into her home. After taking her statement, the officer met with the contractor who was allegedly unaware of the disturbance the lights were creating. He agreed to redirect the lights.

MONDAY, FEB. 19

ANOTHER RACCOON PROBLEM 8:08 a.m., 6800 block of Pine Street Animal Problem: An injured raccoon in a construction dumpster was the reason for a call. The responding officer requested that dispatch have Manatee County Animal Welfare pick up the raccoon.

SATURDAY, FEB. 17

PARK JOB CHECKS OUT 5:38 p.m., 1000 block of Bogey Lane Illegal Parking: A resident called police to help with a water truck that was said to be illegally parked in the area. When the officer arrived on scene, there were at least a dozen construction vehicles on-site. But due to the posted construction, no violations were observed and the vehicle in question was found to be legally parked.

www.LeatherGallerySarasota.com

TUESDAY, FEB. 20

IMPOSSIBLE TRAFFIC CONTROL 12:10 p.m., 3700 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Officer Public Service: A caller reported heavy traffic on Gulf of Mexico Drive. A Longboat Key officer went to investigate the traffic, which was due to Florida Department of Transportation construction projects. The town was aware of the traffic, and no further action was necessary.

SAVE UP TO

OFF

STOREWIDE

THURSDAY, FEB. 22

941-993-1057

418755-1

Saturday 10-6 • Sunday 12-5 5251 S. Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) • Sarasota • 1.5 miles south of Bee Ridge Rd.

546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key TheParadiseCenter.org

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 23

CASE OF THE REAR HATCH 3:05 a.m., 300 block of North Shore Road Suspicious Vehicle: While on routine patrol, an officer noticed a red SUV with the rear hatch open. The officer took a closer look and saw an array of items in the vehicle, but none appeared to be disturbed. A canvass of the area showed that all other vehicles in the area seemed to be secure. The officer closed the hatch and went with another officer to look around the nearby beach. No one was found, and it was assumed that the owner just forgot to close the hatch.

Sara Bay Country Club

941.383.6493

A thoughtful process to share and document your advance care planning. It is never too early to start the conversation and ensure your care beliefs and goals are known to your loved ones.

RSVP: 941.383.6493

NOT-SO-PRIVATE AFTER ALL 1:45 p.m., 1000 block of Longboat Club Road Disturbance: Officers were sent to a civil disturbance. At the scene, one officer met with the complainant, who said she asked a man to leave the beach because it was private property, to which he responded by telling her to get out of his face.

The officers checked the property line with a code enforcement officer, who said only the grass leading up to the edge of the sand was private property, so the man was on a public beach.

SUSPICIOUS GOOD SAMARITANS 4:39 p.m., 6300 block of Gulfside Road Suspicious Person: An officer on patrol was stopped by residents who reported that suspicious people were hanging around vehicles in the parking lot of the nearby beach access point. Upon arrival at the beach access, the officer spoke with the people, who said they were picking up garbage around the beach.

Sara Bay Country Club

Pickleball Basics Monday, March 11th @ 11:30am weather permitting. $15 for non-members

For a schedule of our weekly classes, visit:

TheParadiseCenter.org/ongoing-classes

Zumba, Yoga, Qi Gong, Tai Chi, Stretch & Strengthen and More!

Get your tickets for our March 10th cocktail party fundraiser!

At Café L’Europe from 4-6:30pm. Improv for Call for details: 941.383.6493 Everyone!

Tuesday Tech Time!

March 12, 10-Noon

Walk-in technology clinic…get help from Celia Moore, owner of Technology Solutions! Bring your cellphone, tablet, laptop and questions. No appointment needed.

Brought to you by:

Join Will Luera, FST’s Director of Improvisation for a fun way to work your brain & explore your creative side.

March 13th 1-2pm

The Grass Is Always Greener At Sara Bay

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by Donald Ross in 1926 and restored in 2018, Bay justBay The Grass Always Greener AtSara Sara

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completed a regrassing of all tees, fairways and roughs.

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Located just north downtown and only minutes from 7011of Willow Street, Sarasota, FL 34243 941-355-7658 Longboat Key, Bird Key and Lido Key. For membership opportunities, contact: 7011 Willow Street, Sarasota,please FL 34243 Dennis J. Budny, Director of Membership | dbudny@sarabaycc.org 941-355-7658 www.sarabaycc.org

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

17A

Luxuriously Private INSIDE AND OUT.

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

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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. The Ronto Group®. Rosewood Hotels and Resorts®.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024 ADVERTISEMENT

Awareness, prevention, support Houses of worship raise awareness of sex trafficking.

PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER

T

he six houses of worship on Longboat Key and St. Armands Key hosted a discussion to spread awareness on the reality of sex trafficking.

The discussion was held at 9 a.m. on Feb. 24 at Christ Church of Longboat Key. It was organized by the chairman of Christ Church’s missions committee, Jerry Fox. The houses of worship sponsoring the event included All Angels by the Sea Episcopal Church, Temple Beth Israel, Christ Church, Longboat Island Chapel, St. Armands Key Lutheran Church and St. Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church. They partnered with the Sarasota Police Department and Selah Freedom.

Selah Freedom is an anti-human trafficking nonprofit organization that supports survivors of sex trafficking while raising awareness and advocating prevention.

About 150 people attended the program. The discussion started in prayer led by the Rev. Kenneth Blyth from St. Armands Key Lutheran Church.

First, the program addressed the problem of sex trafficking in the area. Fox shared that Florida is the third worst state for trafficking in the nation. He also said that the Tampa Bay area down to Palmetto is tied with Miami as the area in the state with the most trafficking.

Sex trafficking survivor Kelly Bennett set the tone for the discussion with a poem she wrote about her trafficking experience when she was 18 years old. Bennett shared that writing poetry was her escape to express her feelings during that time.

Sgt. Robert Morrison, Community Action Team supervisor for the Sarasota Police Department, fol-

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lowed Bennett with his experience in helping trafficking victims and what the police are doing to address the problem.

“Our officers are highly trained in what to look for in human trafficking in their daily interactions,” said Morrison. “We know human trafficking is not a victimless crime. The victims are the ones who have been sold, so we want to target the buyers of the sex trafficking. We’re trying to set up operations in that regard. Also, we prioritize having strong partnerships with Selah so that we can have a good debrief with the victims, having those civilians being able to come in and relate to them, getting them to open up a little bit more.”

Gabrielle Triplett shared her trafficking story and how Selah Freedom saved her and helped her change her life. She is the awareness advocate for the organization.

“I’m proud to say that I’m a survivor of sex trafficking and a graduate of Selah Freedom’s faith-based reha-

The Rev. Kenneth Blyth of St. Armands Key Lutheran Church

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

19A

5941 Emerald Harbor Drive Longboat Key Canalfront Pool Home 2600 Sq. Ft.

Jan Jordan Broker

Associate/Realtor jan@jansellssarasota.com

941-737-4169 jansellssarasota.com

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$2,900,000

St. Mary, Star of The Sea Women’s Guild

Royal Rummage Sale XIV Firday, March 8 • 11AM - 2PM

The Rev. Julia Piermont, Jerry Fox, Stacy Efaw, Laurie Swink, Gabrielle Triplett, Kelly Bennett, Misty Laperriere and Sgt. Robert Morrison

Regular Sale• FREE ADMISSION

St. Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church Father Edward Pick Hall • 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228

empath

TIDEWELL FOUNDATION

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March 25 4:00 p.m.

The Rev. Brock Patterson

trafficking problem in the area until 2022,” said Fox. “It is important for our community to be aware and each do our little part to prevent this horrifying problem affecting our community.”

Plan, Don’t Predict Leave Your Legacy

Portofino Ristorante at the Longboat Key Club

2630 Harbourside Dr., Longboat Key • PLEASE RSVP BY MARCH 15 SPONSORED BY

RSVP at (941) 552-7569 or email

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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.

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bilitative program,” said Triplett.

“Though I have escaped the world of sex trafficking, I still face challenges. But every day I am growing and healing because I have let God and Selah into my life. By my life being changed, it has also changed the lives of my children going forward and protected them from what happened to me.”

The second part of the program discussed how Selah Freedom is responding and preventing the trafficking problem.

Executive Director Stacey Efaw and Co-founder and Director of Consulting Laurie Swink followed Triplett to cover Selah’s program for trafficking survivors. Selah’s five areas includes outreach for survivors on the streets and in jails, prevention by educating schools and community organizations, providing residential opportunities for survivors, awareness across the nation, and consulting for other organizations who want to start their own safe houses.

Law Enforcement Liaison and Trainer Misty LaPerriere finished the talk by going over how to identify signs of trafficking, and how guests of the discussion could take action themselves.

The Rev. Brock Patterson from Longboat Island Chapel closed the discussion in prayer.

“I have lived on the island for 10 years, and I didn’t know about the

Early Bird Sale• Admission $5

Saturday, March 9 • 9AM - 1PM

20A

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

A gift to build upon Temple Beth Israel celebrates 45th anniversary and a $500,000 donation for renovations.

PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER

T

HAROLD RONSON

dant generosity of spirit. The world is enriched by Harold’s care. You have gifted our temple with the largest single gift it has ever received. On its 45th anniversary, your kindness permits Temple Beth Israel to fund the renovation of its aging structure.”

Ronson’s donations will allow the temple to renovate its entryway, bathrooms, kitchen and social hall.

Temple Beth Israel will be dedicating the hall to him as the Kay and Harold Ronson Social Hall.

During the dinner, Program Director at The Education Center at

Photos by Petra Rivera

Susan Goldfarb, Sy Goldblatt, Corina Mintz, Rabbi Stephen Sniderman and Susan Landau

Temple Beth Israel Susan Goldfarb organized performances from Sherri Nadelman, SoulRCoaster and Chris Eisenberg of the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe. They provided background music while people ate and participated in the silent auction.

Once the clock hit 8:30 p.m., people were on the dance floor.

“After having spent so many years working overseas as a diplomat, I didn’t have many opportunities to give back,” said Boorstein. “But the temple has been an opportunity for me to volunteer in a very rewarding way. It’s been a source of meeting people and being able to express my own spirituality. There are so many incredibly talented people. You put anyone on the spot and you will get the most incredible stories. We’ve all had different backgrounds including religion because we’re a reformed synagogue.”

Isaac Azerad and Molly Schechter

All are welcome at All Angels no exceptions • Worship services Sunday at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m.

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.

An Ecumenical Church that Welcomes all People Founded in 1956

• Live Stream the 10 a.m. service at AllAnglesLBK.org

New to You Art Sale

Sunday through Thursday from 9am-1pm

6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive • Longboat Key, Florida 34228 • 941-383-6491

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

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

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Follow us on Facebook • www.longboatislandchapel.org

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

Worship With Us at Our Church

Growing in Jesus’ Name

Sunday Worship

Sunday Service 10:00 AM Dr. Julia Wharff Piermont, Pastor

9am & 11am

Join us for Fellowship & Coffee Hour at 10am

Men’s Bible Study: Monday @ 9:00 Women’s Bible Study: Wednesday @ 10:00

5pm

Visitors & Residents Welcome

Contemporary Style Message • Communion 417414-1

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

WINTER CONCERT SERIES

40 North Adams Drive, Sarasota, FL • 941.388.1234

CONCERTS ARE FREE • VISITORS & RESIDENTS WELCOME

St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church

SUNDAY • MARCH 10, 2024 • 2:00 PM

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.

Organ Dedication Concert Featuring Chris Westfall Christ Church of Longboat Key, Organist

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Christ Church of Longboat Key invites you to a Dedication Concert for our new Rodgers Organ, a state of the art masterpiece of up-to-date technology and brilliant sound clarity. Chris Westfall, our acclaimed organist, will be performing a variety of classic and contemporary music which will demonstrate the scope, depth, and range of this amazing new addition to our church. Dr. Julia Wharff Piermont, Pastor, will do a brief Dedication Ceremony.

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.

Please join us and be mesmerized by the majesty and glory of Chris playing the “King of Instruments.”

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 416730-1

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

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Originally from Brooklyn, New York, Harold Ronson, 97, is a U.S. Navy veteran who fought in World War II. He has dedicated his life to philanthropy, such as contributing the money for the Kay and Harold Ronson Health and Applied Science Center at his alma mater Thomas Jefferson University and donating $500,000 to Temple Beth Israel.

567 Bay Isles Rd, Longboat Key, FL

941-383-3428

longboatkeytemple.org

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emple Beth Israel honored Harold Ronson at its 45th anniversary gala, “Making Memories.” Ronson donated a total of $500,000, which is the largest contribution in the history of the synagogue.

The event started at 5:30 p.m. with hors d’oeuvres on Feb. 25 at the Sarasota Yacht Club. Co-President Marion Levine thought it would be a nice change to move the location this year after having the celebration every year at Michael’s On East.

As people arrived at the party, they couldn’t help but reminisce on why they love being a part of Temple Beth Israel.

“I think the temple is unique,” said member Heddy Sabol. “This is truly becoming a cultural center and attracts a diverse number of people, and not just for Jews because we have opportunities such as The Education Center.”

Bob Gary was chosen as emcee for the night, and he swore it is because of his performance in a play TBI once put on, which is his favorite memory from his time in the synagogue.

Once everyone sat down, TBI leaders gave their welcome speeches.

Levine, Co-President Michael Boorstein, Executive Director Isaac Azerad and Rabbi Stephen Sniderman all spoke about their gratitude for Ronson, who was in attendance but did not give a speech.

“Harold is a remarkable man,” said Azerad. “He navigates life with grace and kindness. In his love affair with Judaism and his fellow humans, he expresses his support with an abun-

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

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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. 417127-1

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Classifieds 20B Games 19B Real Estate 15B Weather 19B

FEBRUARY 29, 2024

YOUR NEIGHBORS 50 years of worship on the Key St. Mary, Star of the Sea ­celebrates 50th anniversary with gala event.

PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER

T

he late Father Edward Pick, who founded the parish of St. Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church, was described as a steadfast man and an imposing presence, standing 6-foot-7.

He was so determined to fill the need for a Catholic Church on Longboat Key that he went door to door asking for donations all along the island from 1973 to 1978.

He didn’t wait for construction to commence. During this time, Sunday Mass was held at the firehouse on the north end of Longboat Key. “There was nothing on Longboat in the 1960s, just a fishing village,” said founding member Marilyn Broder.

“It was so small attending Mass in the firehouse, but Father Pick had a strong character and commanded the room. Also, it was just a scene to see him going door to door asking for donations. This was really his baby, and he saw it through.”

Before there was a Catholic church on the island, Mass was led by priests from St. Bernard Catholic Church in Holmes Beach, first at the Longboat Key Youth Center and then in the firehouse, although Archbishop Joseph P. Hurley purchased the 12.5acre property for the church in 1964.

In 1973, Pick was named the first Catholic pastor of Longboat Key. Thanks to Pick’s door-to-door visits and financial committees, the parish

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Eleanor Karnell and Maggie Oberst

was able to put into action plans from Tampa architect Cesar Alfonso in 1973, with the first Mass celebrated at the newly built St. Mary on May 27, 1978.

St. Mary has grown considerably since those early days. And parishioners give the credit to Pick for their close-knit church and say that his legacy stays strong today.

That legacy lives on in the Father Edward Pick Fellowship Hall at St. Mary, where the congregation celebrated its 50th anniversary gala Feb. 23.

Linda Olsen, who organized the event,put a lot of work into celebrating the occasion. Her committee made beautiful centerpieces, ordered ice sculptures and oversaw every detail to ensure the event ran smoothly.

Prominent figures in the local Catholic community came to help celebrate the anniversary, including Bishop Frank Dewane, who is the bishop of the Diocese of Venice.

Pick’s vision for the church was personal to those founding members and to the island of Longboat. The best representation of this is found in St. Mary’s famous mural behind its altar.

Local artist Frank Hopper painted the mural. He was recommended to Pick by a St. Mary parishioner. Pick explained to Hopper that he wanted to create scenes from the Bible by using inspiration from local people and parishioners.

Congregants shared that Jesus’ hands in the mural are based on a local carpenter’s hands and Mary Magdalene’s face was based on a woman who was a bartender at a local bar.

Throughout the mural and other art around the church, people draw connections to local personalities and the founding parishioners of the church. The painting of the mural took three years and was installed in the still-under-construction church on Dec. 8, 1973. That’s also the date to which the church traces its official founding.

But Pick’s plans for a church didn’t stop once it was completed in 1978.

Additions continued throughout his years such as the present rectory in 1984, the Stella Maris Activity Center in 1991 and the prayer walk, memorial garden and the outdoor Stations of the Cross in 1995.

“Father Pick was such a character,” said Eleanor Karnell. “He would end every Mass with ‘Be kind’ and he would say it in his really deep voice so it really stuck with you. He was at every event. Every year at the fashion show, he would wear this white suit and stand there giving drink tickets to all the ladies. You wouldn’t even know he was a priest.”

After retiring in 2008, Pick was still involved in the parish and helped his successor, Monsignor Gerry Finnegan, and current pastor, the

Photos by Petra Rivera

The Rev. Phillip Schweda, the Rev. Robert Dziedziak, Linda Olsen and Bishop Frank Dewane

WHY ST. MARY? President of the Board Bob Soper: “St. Mary has had a significant effect on our community with all the effort and charitable events. Our community is about giving back to the community and helping those in need.

Also, we have a lot of interesting events like our Oktoberfest, St. Patrick’s Day celebration, Italian night, and Motown. We give back and have fun, too.”

The Rev. Roger Charponneau, Vanda and Bob Soper

Rev. Robert Dziedziak. Pick died on March 27, 2021.

During the gala, church members shared how Pick’s legacy has been carried out through all of his successors. Elaine Cichon said each pastor, including Dziedziak, humanizes the services with humor, care and involvement in other events not related to religious duties.

“Father Robert is a mover and shaker, and I swear he was the Energizer Bunny,” said Olsen. “He always has a smile on his face and is kind to

everyone he meets. He has touched so many of our lives with gratitude and appreciation. We are so blessed to have Father Robert.”

John Vorel has attended St. Mary for 40 years and shared that he is amazed with its evolution.

Vorel said, “As the parish is getting younger and we are passing it to a younger generation, it is nice to see how far we have come and how it still has Father Pick’s energy and spirit.”

Catherine Costello: “I just feel privileged to be a part of this community. I rarely went to church when I lived in New Jersey, but St. Mary inspires me with that mural and the people. It is like a big family that pushes you in the right direction to God.”

2B

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

Pickleball passion pairs with purpose

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

T

he Rotary Club of Longboat Key helped train a group of intermediate level pickleball players, while also educating them on injury prevention — and raising money for charity.

Through ticket sales and sponsorships, the Feb. 21 event raised more than $12,000 to go toward the Rotary Club’s many initiatives, including coastal ecology and sustainability education, food insecurity and child literacy.

Elizabeth Apmann and other instructors worked individually with session participants.

The event operated in two sessions, each with 20 participants.

There were also 20 instructors and assistants to help with the instruction, which provided for a more oneon-one atmosphere.

First, players had a 30-minute injury prevention clinic led by physical therapists with Fitness Quest Physical Therapy, which is housed in the Tidewell Foundation building.

Michael Ehlers, with the physical therapy group, gave players a brief introduction to pickleball injuries, saying that the No. 1 cause is a change of direction, specifically in “the kitchen,” or area near the net, on the court.

This results in mostly lower body injuries, like spraining an ankle during an abrupt and awkward twist.

Other common lower body injuries have to do with the knee.

Upper body injuries are common, too. Shoulder injuries are frequently seen with paddle or racket sports, Ehlers said. He also added that injuries to the long head of the bicep are among the most common with those kinds of sports.

Static stretching is good for shortterm injury prevention, Ehlers said.

That’s something that can be done right before going onto the court.

But what he focused on during the talk was dynamic stretching, a longterm injury prevention method and part of some injury rehabilitation processes.

“That’s ultimately how you return to sport,” Ehlers said.

Ehlers and his colleague, Kayla Baum, walked participants through a number of dynamic stretches, most of which worked multiple parts of the body.

For example, different types of lunges loosened up the lower body while also engaging the core. And with resistance bands, some stretches worked shoulders and upper back muscles.

All those stretches could be incorporated into a player’s warmup

Photos by Carter Weinhofer

Michael Ehlers, with Fitness Quest Physical Therapy, leads a stretching routine before the clinic.

r­outine before going out onto the court.

If injuries do happen, Ehlers said ice is best for the acute stage, or right after an injury. Heat is best for after the injury is out of the acute stage.

Ehlers could see braces among the crowd. He pointed out that those are a good tool, and a common injury intervention method.

“But they’re even more beneficial when you combine them with the dynamic stretching,” he said.

After Ehlers and Baum finished the injury prevention clinic, community pickleball experts led participants in a demonstration of a drop shot, an intermediate player technique.

The players then had about an hour to work with the trainers and assistants.

In between sessions, members of the Rotary Club and sponsors raffled off the door prizes, which include two pickleball paddles and a variety of gift certificates for Longboat Key businesses.

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Participants had about an hour of intermediate-level pickleball instruction.

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AMAZING BAYFRONT RESIDENCE! - You will be awed as you walk through the door and see the expansive full bay views. This 3 bedroom, 3 bath residence has tile floors in every room, an updated kitchen, soaring ceilings and 3 balconies. The community offers pool, tennis, pickle ball, fitness and a day dock for launching your small watercraft, plus gulf side beach across the street.

Pets are welcome here. $925,000.

Luxury Real Estate Agent (941) 650-4626 perry.corneau@compass.com sarasotacondominiums.com

PLEASE CONTACT ME FOR MORE DETAILS.

Nowhere but here.

Bobbie Banan

REALTOR, 5 Star Real Estate Agent

941.356.2659

421009-1

BobbieBanan@michaelsaunders.com bobbiebanan.michaelsaunders.com

Steve Nursey REALTOR, GRI

941.356.7010

SteveNursey@michaelsaunders.com stevenursey.michaelsaunders.com

61 S. Boulevard of the Presidents Sarasota, FL 34236

420143-1

The Rotary Club of Longboat Key hosts a skills and injury ­prevention clinic, raising over $12,000 for charitable causes.

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

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February 29, 2024

North Siesta Key

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

A rare jewel is available: A Beachfront & Bayfront Estate Size Home Site for your dream house or family compound. This prime homesite estate offers unparalleled vistas of the glistening waters, downtown Sarasota, and the keys of Bird and Lido from its expansive 120-foot private beach and bay frontage.

Included is a deepwater dock on Big Pass as well as 2 deeded boat slips in the protected sailboat waters of Bayou Louise. This exclusive property is among the few that capture downtown views and the beauty of western sunsets. www.21LandsEndLane.com

DIRECT BEACH FRONT! SUNSET VIEWS ON SOUTH LONGBOAT KEY FROM THIS VILLA DI LANCIA RESIDENCE This direct beachfront magnificent 3-bedroom, 3bathroom residence sprawls over 2,448 sq ft, showcasing breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico. This furnished residence greets you with an open, sundrenched layout, thanks to expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. www.VillaDiLancia214.com

2251 Gulf of Mexico Drive #204 | Aria - Longboat Key | $9,200,000 3 bed + office or 4 bed | 3.5 bath | 4,032 Sq Ft

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

This home is almost new, and it’s a WOW! Live in this Gulf-front corner residence that feels like a home on the beach at the South end of Longboat Key. Enjoy your private 3400 ft.² terrace, w/your private pool, summer kitchen. This home has private stairs to the beach, a breathtaking clubhouse w/guest suites, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a 5-car garage. www.Aria204.com

Location, Location, Location – Exquisite gated estate on the northern tip of Siesta Key. This home offers Gulf of Mexico views, a 40x20 pool, a spa, an outdoor kitchen, a 24K boat lift & a 12x20 platform to lift a 5,000 lb. kayaks or a jet skis. The main level has the Primary & Guest suites, a library, a chef's kitchen, an elevator, and a 4-car garage. This home is a few steps to deeded Beach Access and is the most beautiful home on the north end of Siesta Key. www.3500BayouLouise.com

1930 Harbourside Dr #122 | Fairway Bay | $879,000 2 bed | 2 bath | 1,312 Sq Ft Sarasota Bay and skyline is your backyard from this two bedroom, two bath residence that is almost new and ready for instant enjoyment. Features: fitness center, pool, tennis and on-site manager.

DEEDED BEACH ACCESS

419662-1

1930HarboursideDr122.com

3 bed, 3 bath | 2,448 Sq Ft

55 Lighthouse Point | Longboat Key | $8,900,000 5 bed + 2 flex rooms | 4.5 bath | 6,159 Sq Ft WHERE LOCATION, SOPHISTICATION AND LUXURY MEET. A gated enclave of 16 luxury homes on the southern tip of Longboat Key and minutes to the Gulf of Mexico to enjoy the beach. Instant enjoyment in this newer home with a resort-style outdoor patio, pool, and spa. This location is a boater's paradise (no bridges to the gulf), a golfer's paradise, or a tennis or pickleball lover's paradise. This home has luxurious finishes, as well as close to the cultural hub of Sarasota. www.55Lighthouse.com

521 Wedge Lane | Longboat Key | $1,975,000 3 bed | 2 bath | 1,677 Sq Ft

1180 Bogey Lane | Longboat Key | $1,098,000 2 bed + flex room | 2 bath | 2,180 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 WINDOWS & DOORS, NEW ROOF, a NEW SEAWALL with a CoolDeck® dock, and a 10,000-pound boat lift. This residence also has a newer kitchen, newer baths, a split floor plan, a family room, and solar panels for the swimming pool—instant enjoyment. www.521WedgeLane.com

Updated, 2 bedrooms + flex room, 2 bathrooms, 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. South Longboat.

DEEDED BEACH ACCESS www.1180Bogey.com

6B

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

COASTAL ELEGANCE AT ITS FINEST! Open House Saturdays & Sundays 1- 4 pm 551 BROADWAY ST Longboat Key, FL

Listed for $4,450,000

Lynn Armstrong Coffin will be showing her newest art collection “Full Circle” at the Arts Advocate Gallery in The Crossings at Siesta Key Mall.

MLS# A4555735

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

Now Complete and Ready for Occupancy BUILT 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.

Petra Rivera

‘Full Circle’ artwork

GREGG BAYER Broker

941.799.9096

gregg@amibeaches.com

420332-1

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

Longboat resident Lynn Coffin debuts art collection focusing on sustainability.

PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER

1212 Benjamin Franklin Dr. #305 1 Bed | 1 Bath | 1,116 SF

Michael Cella REALTOR® 941.952.8649

TURNKEY CONDO ON THE BEACH • Impeccable Condition • Custom Designed Closets • 30 FT Long Balcony

Genevieve Clews REALTOR® 727.262.0748

421010-1

Keller Williams On The Water Sarasota | Cella Luxury Group

Lynn Armstrong Coffin’s latest art collection, “Full Circle,” will be on display at the Arts Advocates Gallery in The Crossings at Siesta Key Mall, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail Suite 119, every Saturday in March, 2-4 p.m.

The opening reception is March 2 from 2-4 p.m. Wine will be provided.

Coffin likes to be involved in every step of the artistic process, from building her own tools and frames to dumpster diving for new materials. She even involves her husband, Commissioner Gary Coffin. She said she will usually find supplies when she is out with Gary, so he will help bring any materials home that they find around the island.

“I have always loved circles, but I really wanted it to mean something more,” said Coffin. “There is so much you can do with everyday items that you are so quick to throw away. You just have to think a little bit outside the box.”

Coffin said she has been an artist for as long as she can remember.

She earned her bachelor’s degree in illustration and graphic design from the University of Georgia. She explored various career paths as an illustrator for advertising companies, an upscale kitchen designer, a children’s book author and illustrator and a sculptor of political figures.

Exceptional Service by your Neighborhood REALTOR®,

Get There in a Hop, Skip and a Splash

JoDene Moneuse 35 year Longboat Key Resident/Realtor Celebrating 5 years on the Michael Saunders “Best of the Best” list

3 bdrms/2 baths renovated, on a great canal 548 Lyons Lane | $1,450,000

2 bdrms/2 bath renovated with a full Bay view 600 Sutton Place $599,000

TION TRUC S N CO NEW

4 bdrms/4.5 baths on 170ft. of canal 610 Longview Dr | $5,350,000

The Easy Way Around the Beaches and Downtown 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.

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Historic 4 bedroom home in Conrad Beach 7040 Firehouse Rd | $1,695,000

E PRIC NEW

Build your dream home on canal front land in Longbeach Village! 521 Broadway St | $950,000

Vacant lot in the Longboat Key Village 521A Broadway St | $750,000

Updated and high and dry! 3 bdrms/2 baths on a nice canal. 550 De Narvaez Dr | $1,650,000

Seaplace #G3-305. Beautifully remodeled 2/2.

2045 Gulf of Mexico Dr | $665,000

Canal front 2 bdrm Palm cottage plus a vacant lot 13,747 sf total 7012 Palm & 521A Broadway combined | $1,650,00

11,250 sf lot with 3 bdrm/2 bth renovated house New seawall, docks and 10,000 lb lift 690 Jungle Queen | $1,495,000.00

Now Running!

Friday, Saturday and Sundays 9 am - 9 pm Scan for Stops and Schedule or Visit:

GulfIslandFerry.com

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941.302.4913 JoDeneMoneuse@michaelsaunders.com LongboatKeyLiving.com

416894-1

PARADISE ON LIDO

O

nce her usual materials started to become scarce during the COVID-19 pandemic, Longboat Key resident Lynn Armstrong Coffin had to get creative when it came to how she made her art.

“I had just started building my own frames with Plexiglas, but then COVID hit, and it was being used everywhere,” said Coffin. “I realized I had to change gears, and so I started looking around and I thought, ‘Well, what can we use?’ There’s Amazon with all the cardboard boxes. There was house paint. There was plaster stucco, which you put on walls. Just all this stuff I started finding.”

Experimenting with different materials that include tissue paper and paint color samples from The Home Depot, Coffin made her latest collection, “Full Circle.” It will be on display from 2-4 p.m. every Saturday in March, starting March 2 at the Art Advocates Gallery in The Crossings at Siesta Key Mall.

The collection shows how repurposing materials into unique works of art can lend objects new meaning and bring them full circle.

IF YOU GO

YourObserver.com

7B

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

605 S Gulfstream Avenue, 17, Sarasota

495 Mckinley Drive, Lido Key

$11,950,000 | 4 BR, 4.5 BA | Web# A4596740

$7,500,000 | 4 BR, 5.5 BA | Web# A4592328

Lisa Morris: M 941.544.3332

Lisa Morris: M 941.544.3332

1632 Floyd Street, Sarasota

3381 Bayou Sound, Longboat Key

$3,190,000 | 4 BR, 4.5 BA | Web# A4593582

$2,995,000 | 4BR, 3.5 BA | Web# A4599569

Inbal August: M 917.957.8111

Lisa Morris: M 941.544.3332 Julie Guirguis: M 440.503.3713

8112 Grande Shores Drive, Sarasota

3540 Bayou Circle, Longboat Key

$2,500,000 | 3 BR, 3.5 BA | Web# A4599719

$2,150,000 | 3 BR, 3 BA | Web# A4588697

Allison Werner: M 941.961.3212 Monica LeSuer: M 941.867.6199

Inbal August: M 917.957.8111

340 S Palm Avenue, 15, Sarasota

3449 Tanglewood Drive, Sarasota

$1,975,000 | 3 BR, 3.5 BA | Web# A4596801

$625,000 | 3 BR, 2 BA | Web# A4599927

Amy Drake: M 941.376.9346 Julie Guirguis: M 440.503.3713

Allison Werner: M 941.961.3212

420041-1

1350 MAIN ST, SARASOTA, FL 34236. 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.

elliman.com

Make Your Next Move Exceptional

8B

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

An unseen, wild world

Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota 401 Quay #902 Sarasota, FL 34236 $ 5,700,000 3 bedrooms

3 full, 1 partial

Libraries celebrate the One Book, One Community selection, ‘An Immense World’ by Ed Yong, which delves into animals’ senses.

3,095 SqFt.

IAN SWABY STAFF WRITER

B

efore Ellen India was adult services coordinator for Sarasota County Libraries, she had a different sort of

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota, offers an elegant 3-bed, 3.5-bath retreat on the 9th floor. This sophisticated residence seamlessly fuses style with captivating waterfront views.

Accessed through a private elevator, it features impeccable details, including Wolf and SubZero appliances, quartz countertops, and a spacious island. Enjoy panoramic views from the living space and a balcony with a grill. Luxurious touches include large-format porcelain floors, 11 ft ceilings, tray ceilings, and impact-rated windows and doors. Residents enjoy amenities like a 24-hour concierge, valet service, fitness center, lap pool, resort pool, club room, and game room. Ideally located, this residence offers proximity to cultural attractions, and dining options.

Immerse yourself in an extraordinary lifestyle at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota.

Perry Corneau

Luxury Real Estate Agent

421008-1

(941) 650-4626 perry.corneau@compass.com sarasotacondominiums.com

career.

She was a zookeeper for 15 years and worked at Zoo Atlanta for 10 years.

Back then, she thought it was fascinating when she learned that animals can communicate with one another across vast distances, as in the case of elephants, which can pick up one another’s vibrations up to six miles away.

So she was excited when the staff of Sarasota County Libraries settled on the book that would be the focus of the One Book, One Community program she is facilitating: “An Immense World: How Animal Senses Reveal the Hidden Realms Around Us” by Ed Yong.

“We knew that almost everybody has had some sort of a personal connection with an animal,” she said.

The book explores how each species possesses its own unique set of sensory skills. We are surrounded by unseen colors, unheard sounds, and other ways of experiencing the world.

India is certain that it’s a book that will highlight not only people’s connections to the natural world, but also allow the public to connect with one another, something that has always been the purpose of the program, which the library system has hosted for over 20 years. The offerings culminate in the appearance of Yong at two separate locations, in North Port and in Sarasota, on March 1, but the programming throughout Sarasota County is already delving into the natural world.

Ian Swaby

Judy Levine led a class on animal art.

ONE BOOK AUTHOR ED YONG AND ‘AN IMMENSE WORLD’ FRIDAY, MARCH 1 ■ 10:30 a.m. at Suncoast Technical College, 4445 Career Lane, North Port ■ 7 p.m. at Selby Library, 1331 First St., Sarasota For more information: Visit SCGov.net/OneBook. For a full list of One Book, One Community events visit SCGovLibrary.

LibrarMarket.com/Events.

“One of the important concepts of the One Book program is it’s not just that it’s a good book and a good author that people might want to hear, but also; it’s really important for us to look at all the programming ideas that we can come up with,” India said.

For example, during Animal Art with Judy Levine, held at Selby Library on Feb. 20, participants had the chance to explore the natural world through art, in an accesSEE ONE BOOK, PAGE 12B

Come take a look at this beautiful and completely renovated CANAL HOME on this perfectly located, quiet secluded street!

Open House Saturday Mar 2nd & Sunday Mar 3rd 1-3pm

672 Jungle Queen Way, Longboat Key, FL 34228

PRICE REDUCTION > $ 1,695,000

4 Bed | 2 Bath | 2,376 Sqft | 0.26 Acre Lot • Deeded Beach Access - Walk to the Beach • Boat & Kayak Lift - 5 mins to the Bay • New Roof/Vaulted Ceiling • New Hurricane Impact Windows and Doors

• New Wood Tone Porcelain Floors throughout • Updated Electric & Plumbing / Sewer Lines • Stainless Steel Whirlpool Appliances • Granite Kitchen Countertops

What’s all the fuss about Sarasota?

Just ask Tracy@AgentSRQ.com

Tracy Srodes - REALTOR

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www.AgentSRQ.com

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

R ise TO A N E W V I E W

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VISTA RE

3TDUAL

Y CA

EXPL O

at SHELL POINT

VIR TOUR

Rising above the shores of the Caloosahatchee River — just minutes from the islands of Sanibel and Captiva — is Vista Cay, a collection of sophisticated waterfront residences featuring awe-inspiring vistas. For a limited time, future residents can choose their views and enjoy Shell Point’s resort amenities and award-winning lifecare while building is underway. This rare opportunity to select a new construction residence in Shell Point’s most renowned neighborhood won’t last long. Take a virtual tour, register for a seminar, or request an appointment by visiting MeetVistaCay.org.

Championship Golf • Deep-Water Marina • Fine Dining • Award-Winning Lifecare FROM $1.4 MILLION NOW ACCEPTING DEPOSITS MeetVistaCay.org • (239) 466-1131 Shell Point is located just minutes from the islands of Sanibel and Captiva, along the Caloosahatchee River in Fort Myers, Florida.

419862-1

Shell Point is a nonprofit ministry of The Christian and Missionary Alliance Foundation, Inc. All renderings, maps, site plans, photos, simulated views, floor plans and all other information herein are conceptual and should not be relied upon as representing the final detail. Dimensions, features, and specifications of the proposed development and residences are subject to change without notice.

Furnishings are represented for illustration purposes only. ©2024 Shell Point. All rights reserved. SLS-4921-24

SLS-4921-24 Longboat Key-Palm Coast Observer.indd 1

1/31/24 9:04 AM

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

Cindy Fischer 2023 Top Performing Agent Exclusive Island Properties

Photos by Petra Rivera

Matthew and Sarah Lembo with a repurposed surfboard by Jim Rajner.

SCAN FOR MORE

Creative reuse on display at fest

C

ars lined Bay Isles Road right at 10 a.m. on Feb. 24 as this year‘s Longboat Key Festival of the Arts opened.

Artists filled the Town Center Green with a variety of paintings, sculptures, crafts, jewelry and other art pieces for the annual event that ran from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Artist Andrew Libecki displayed his collection of unique sculptures — the inspiration for which he said came to him in his dreams.

Marilyn Richey, of Jewelry With a Past, didn’t know what to do with her many Victorian-era buttons, collected because of her love of history. Making them into necklaces and bracelets enables her to share this passion with others and enjoy reactions from the unique jewelry.

Jim Rajner is a California surfer turned artist who splits time between coasts.

With Jimmy Romo’s Coastal Creations, he shares his mission for sustainability by repurposing surfboards into unique art pieces. He said in the first hour he sold about 24 boards.

200FT OF BAY FRONTAGE, CASEY KEY | $3,795,000

SCAN FOR MORE

WATERFRONT HIDEAWAY WITH BOAT DOCK, LONGBOAT KEY | $2,750,000

SCAN FOR MORE

Scott Causey and his art

— PETRA RIVERA

HISTORIC BUNGALOW & GUEST COTTAGE, LONGBOAT KEY | $1,995,000

SCAN FOR MORE Marilyn Richey turns antique Victorian buttons into jewelry.

Ana Maria Cossio and her art

IS PERSONALIZED CARE RIGHT FOR YOU?

COASTAL COTTAGE WITH BACKYARD OASIS & POOL, LONGBOAT KEY | $1,750,000

SOLD MAGNIFICENT BAYFRONT SANCTUARY, SIESTA KEY | $9,330,000

SOLD

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

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.

COASTAL SOPHISTICATION, LONGBOAT KEY | $2,575,000

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

941.465.1124

CindyFischer.com CindyFischer@michaelsaunders.com

941-366-2194

417767-1

440 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228

1250 S Tamiami Trail, Suite 401, Sarasota, FL 34239 419095-1

10B

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

WATER

on the

Reid MuRphy PResents

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

11B

LONGBOAT KEY GULF FRONT $ 9,970,000

LONGBOAT KEY BAY ISLES HARBOR $ 9,595,000

Casually elegant 3BD/3BA Key West style estate w/ privacy gates. Breathtaking views. Floor to ceiling pocket sliding glass doors open to the lanai expanding the living space to include above ground pool & spa plus expansive outdoor sitting area. Private master retreat w/ Gulf front terrace.

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.

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

LONGBOAT KEY L’AMBIANCE 4,195,000

LONGBOAT KEY EN PROVENCE

LONGBOAT KEY DEEP WATER

$

4,935,000

$

$

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

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.

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

LONGBOAT KEY BOATERS DREAM

LONGBOAT KEY BOATERS DREAM

2,795,000

LONGBOAT KEY GRAND BAY

1,999,985

$

$

$

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.

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.

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

2,395,000

2,325,000

NEW LISTING

LONGBOAT KEY PRIVATEER 1,395,000

1,845,000

$

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

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

LONGBOAT KEY WESTCHESTER

$

$

1th floor luxury Penthouse, behind the gates of LBK Club & Resort. 2BD/2BA splitplan w/ two private terraces for Gulf, Bay and City views.

Many high-end updates and full resort ammenties.

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.

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LONGBOAT KEY DEEP WATER

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 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

416916-1

LEIGHTON T. ALLENBY

239.537.4563

WagnerRealty.com

Ian Swaby

John Kenyon introduces Donna Kaehler to Cringer.

Your Hometown Favorite For More Than Eight Decades!

LOCAL, VETERAN OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1939 LONGBOAT KEY

One Book

LONGBOAT KEY

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

FROM PAGE 8B

sible way. Levine, a local artist, had attendees make collages with animal stencils, and to ensure people wouldn’t be intimidated, she brought in Haitian artwork painted in a “naive” style.

“They don’t look like real animals, and they don’t have to be painted realistically,” she said. “Some people are intimidated if you tell them to draw a monkey or a giraffe.”

With a focus on foreground, middle ground and background, participants created collages, cutting images from the various magazines provided and then using stencils and paint markers to add in animals of their choosing.

At the same time, Levine was able to talk with participants about animals and their unique features, like how a crevice in a dog’s nose enhances its sense of smell.

“It’s because of Judy that I came here,” said attendee Anna Bazileeva.

“She’s a great artist.”

Meanwhile, Reptile Encounter with Big Cat, hosted that same day at Fruitville Library, allowed the public to get up close with, and learn about, an American alligator, a monitor lizard, a tortoise and multiple snakes,

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

SIESTA KEY

LONGBOAT KEY

NEW PRICING

NEW PRICING 612 Marbury Lane | Sleepy Lagoon Pk| MLS#A4590263 | 2/2 - 1,128 sf | Canal Front | NOW $1,299,999 | Ed Taaffe (636) 346-6165

1240 Dolphin Way #402 | Dolphin Bay MLS#A4595025 | 2/2 - 1,915 sf | NOW $1,297,777 Ed Taaffe (636) 346-6165

RESIDENTIAL SALES - RENTALS - PROPERTY MANAGEMENT VOTED “Favorite Real Estate Company” by readers of the local newspaper for 25 years in a row!

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

Longboat Key

with the help of Big Cat Habitat educators.

“I think having shows like this, people can come up and touch the animals, and they can ask questions that they can’t just ask a TV,” said John Kenyon, also known as “Gator John,” who hosted the event with his wife, Sasha Kenyon.

“Its great — I love to learn about all of the Florida animals. It’s all new to us,” said Donna Kaehler.

India said she was especially glad to be able to feature the topic of bats thanks to the Florida Bat Conservancy.

“Bats are kind of misunderstood and maybe feared by some people, but I’m really glad that we have a chance to learn about them and learn about their role in the environment and how we can live with them peacefully,” she said.

Participants can discover more about the natural world when they listen to the talk by Yong, who traveled the world to research the book.

The book has been called one of the year’s best by Oprah Daily, The New York Times, Washington Post and others.

“It’s really interesting to try to learn a little bit more about the different species and what they really are all about, and how they interact with the world, and I think there’s a lot that we can learn from them,” India said.

2024 SPRING LUNCH & LEARN A Premier Event of the Season!

Community Open House

Sunday, March 17, 2024 12:00 – 1:30 p.m.

Michael’s On East, Sarasota Only $39 Includes Lecture & Luncheon!

TED DEUTCH AJC Chief Executive Officer, Edward and Sandra Meyer Office of the CEO

March 9, 2024 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

The State of Jewish Affairs: Around the World with AJC

Town Center Green

There is never a dull moment for the Jewish people and the State of Israel.

Join us for an in-depth conversation as we tackle some of the most challenging current events and how they are impacting our community.

600 Bay Isles Road | Longboat Key, Florida 34228 This is a “DO NOT MISS” event! Everything, and everyone who makes this such a special community will be at this FREE event! Live music, food trucks, local restaurants, over 30 local businesses, and more!

EVENT CHAIRS

David & Edie Chaifetz • Joel & Gail Morganroth • The Benderson Family

Also we will have our Town departments, non-profit organizations, houses of worship, service clubs, Longboat Key Turtle Watch, Longboat Library & a Sarasota Co PopUp Library, Historical Society, Education Center, Paradise Center, Breeze On Demand Transit, and so much more.

Advanced Reservations Required!

To RSVP: Online at: AJC.org/sarasota/spring2024 Or Email: sarasota@ajc.org Or Call AJC: 941.365.4955 420604-1

For more information visit www.longboatkey.org 420146-1

12B

SPONSORED BY

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

All the Ritz-Carlton Residences One realtor, One website: Sarasotacondominiums.com

Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Bay This iconic, new, 20-story Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Bay, residential tower enjoys a prime waterfront location in the heart of Sarasota’s walkable downtown cultural district.

Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Step into the essence of elegant downtown, waterfront living in the city’s most prestigious condominium community, The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota, where legendary services and amenities are all yours to enjoy.

The Tower Residences Delight in captivating bay and city views coupled with unparalled amenities and legendary Ritz-Carlton service.

The Beach Residences Welcome to the epitome of luxury living on the shores of Lido Key at the Ritz-Carlton Beach Residences. These extraordinary residences boast unparalleled elegance and stunning panoramic views that encapsulate beach front living.

The Residences A slice of heaven located atop the original Ritz-Carlton hotel, downtown Sarasota with wonderful views of the bay and the city. Life at the Ritz-Carlton Residences is the perfect blend of luxury and unparalleled service.

Perry Corneau Luxury Real Estate Agent

(941) 650-4626 perry.corneau@compass.com

421006-1

www.sarasotacondominiums.com

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

LONGBOAT KEY 610 Longview Drive 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 3,793 Sq. Ft. JoDene Moneuse 941-302-4913 A4586153 $5,350,000

LONGBOAT KEY 525 Norton Street 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,601 Sq. Ft. The Walter Group 941-809-0907 A4595862 $3,295,000

LONGBOAT KEY 524 Cutter Lane 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,378 Sq. Ft. Kathy Callahan 941-900-8088 A4598081 $2,995,000

SARASOTA 1350 Main Street 1601 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,216 Sq. Ft. Lynn Morris 941-400-4526 A4595084 $2,250,000

LONGBOAT KEY 575 Sanctuary Drive A104 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,785 Sq. Ft. Ryndie Brusco 941-809-6913 A4598966 $1,900,000

LONGBOAT KEY 7040 Firehouse Road 4 Beds 3 Baths 2,780 Sq. Ft. Maureen Horn & JoDene Moneuse 941-539-3384 A4584884 $1,695,000

LONGBOAT KEY 554 Rountree Drive 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,708 Sq. Ft. Kristina Waskom 941-266-8658 A4599510 $1,599,000

LIDO KEY 1212 Benjamin Franklin Drive 309 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,812 Sq. Ft. Pat Rodriguez 941-685-5805 A4595720 $1,400,000

LONGBOAT KEY 610 Russell Street 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,688 Sq. Ft. Matthew Voss 941-237-0877 A4586583 $1,399,000

LONGBOAT KEY 2120 Harbourside Drive 616 3 Beds 2 Baths 2,031 Sq. Ft. Bibi-Ann Allard PA 941-685-0422 A4592661 $1,150,000

LONGBOAT KEY 4234 Gulf Of Mexico Drive G1 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,636 Sq. Ft. Michael Nink, Pa 941-914-2805 A4589473 $1,079,000

LONGBOAT KEY 1085 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 302 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,392 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy & Gail Wittig 941-961-8850 A4589636 $975,000

LIDO KEY 1102 Benjamin Franklin Drive 411 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,213 Sq. Ft. Douglas Parks 941-400-9087 A4596277 $925,000

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

LONGBOAT KEY 225 Sands Point Road 6106 1 Bed 1 Baths 642 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy & Gail Wittig 941-961-8850 A4599754 $849,000

SARASOTA 1709 N Tamiami Trail 502A 1 Bed 2 Baths 1,050 Sq. Ft. Lenore Treiman 941-356-9642 A4593941 $825,000

SARASOTA 435 S Gulfstream Avenue 902 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,424 Sq. Ft. Lenore Treiman 941-356-9642 A4596164 $825,000

LONGBOAT KEY 4410 Exeter Drive K203 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,152 Sq. Ft. Joanna Benante & Ann Martin 941-356-7717 A4599420 $699,000

SARASOTA 777 John Ringling Boulevard 5H 2 Beds 2 Baths 882 Sq. Ft. Linda Driggs 941-374-2920 A4595966 $649,900

LONGBOAT KEY 806 Bayport Way 806 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,260 Sq. Ft. Maruta Miluns 941-374-9720 A4589330 $629,000

LONGBOAT KEY 250 Sands Point Road 5105 1 Bed 1 Baths 634 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy & Gail Wittig 941-961-8850 A4598746 $599,000

LONGBOAT KEY 730 Spanish Drive S 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,405 Sq. Ft. Sean Clark 941-312-1146 A4585691 $584,999

LONGBOAT KEY 565 Sutton Place V-9 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,198 Sq. Ft. The Walter Group 941-809-0907 A4594253 $549,000

LONGBOAT KEY 4770 Gulf Of Mexico Drive V-6 2 Beds 1 Baths 812 Sq. Ft. Ann Martin & Joanna Benante 941-356-7717 A4592314 $540,000

LONGBOAT KEY 729 Saint Judes Drive S 3 1 Bed 1 Baths 630 Sq. Ft. Drew Russell 941-993-3739 A4596268 $389,999

LONGBOAT KEY 2333 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 1B1 2 Beds 2/1 Baths 3,238 Sq. Ft. Robert Delaney 941-315-3185 A4599566 $4,625,000

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

SARASOTA 111 S Pineapple Avenue 1206 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,507 Sq. Ft. Nora Johnson 941-809-1700 A4594119 $3,395,000

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

REAL ESTATE

Condo in Bonaire tops sales at $9.16 million ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR

A

condominium in Bonaire tops all transactions in this week’s real estate.

William and Patricia Werzyn, of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, sold their Unit 3 condominium at 5005 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Schutte LBK LLC for $9.16 million. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, five-and-two-half baths, a pool and 4,638 square feet of living area. It sold for $7.2 million in 2020.

Courtesy image by Roger Pettingell

William and Patricia Werzyn, of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, sold their Unit 3 condominium at 5005 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Schutte LBK LLC for $9.16 million.

Mazzola, of Colts Neck, New Jersey, for $800,000. Built in 1974, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,128 square feet of living area. It sold for $575,000 in 2005.

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

L’AMBIANCE AT LONGBOAT KEY CLUB

Jerome Blumberg, as Personal Representative, sold the Unit K-905 condominium at 435 L’Ambiance Drive to Kenneth Edgar Jr. and Denise Harvey, of Longboat Key, for $3.75 million. Built in 1994, it has two bedrooms, two-and-two-half baths and 2,634 square feet of living area. It sold for $1,687,500 in 2001.

for $1,725,000. Built in 1973, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,470 square feet of living area. It sold for $675,000 in 2012.

BAY ISLES

FAIRWAY BAY III

Nale Developments (Florida) Inc. sold the home at 540 Harbour Cove Circle to Dominic Zaccone II, trustee, of Longboat Key, for $2.97 million. Built in 1979, it has two bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,081 square feet of living area. It sold for $515,000 in 1992.

COREY’S LANDING

Robert and Andrea Munzer, Michael Munzer and Steven Munzer sold their home at 3464 Mistletow Lane to David Doyle, of Birmingham, Michigan, for $2 million. Built in 1989, it has three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths and 3,367 square feet of living area. It sold for $632,800 in 2006.

VILLA DI LANCIA

Mary Ann Hackett, trustee, of Mequon, Wisconsin, sold the Unit 111 condominium at 2165 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Derek Clark, trustee, of Newburgh, Indiana, for $2 million. Built in 1996, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,470 square feet of living area. It sold for $895,000 in 1997.

SEA GATE CLUB

Tracey and Robert Cormier, of Longboat Key, sold their Unit 13-B condominium at 2425 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Jeffery Crace, trustee, of Canal Winchester, Ohio,

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FEB. 12-16

RIVIERA OF LIDO BEACH

Jane Luscombe and G. Thomas Luscombe, trustees, sold the Unit 645 condominium at 2120 Harbourside Drive to John Parent, trustee, of Walloon Lake, Michigan, for $1,721,000. Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,632 square feet of living area.

It sold for $1,195,000 in 2013.

Catherine de’ Ath, of Sarasota, sold her Unit 3-B condominium at 131 Garfield Drive to Thomas and Sarah Creath, of Corning, New York, for $725,000. Built in 1978, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,215 square feet of living area. It sold for $112,000 in 1981.

THE SHORE

Peter Perrotta, trustee, of Chicago, sold the Unit 103 condominium at 5757 Gulf of Mexico Drive to James Zello and Bonnie June Meyer-Zello, of Swanton, Maryland, for $712,500.

Built in 1973, it has two bedrooms,

two baths and 1,561 square feet of living area. It sold for $210,000 in 1993.

SEAPLACE

Brenda Gail Shields and Ronald Shields, of Longboat Key, sold their Unit G4-106-G condominium at 1975 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Aaron and Laurie Butler, of Onalaska, Wisconsin, for $650,000. Built in 1977, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,068 square feet of living area.

It sold for $399,000 in 2019.

BEACH HARBOR CLUB

David Roger Lowin sold the Unit C-205 condominium at 3806 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Nancy Elaine Whitley, of Longboat Key, for $450,000.

Built in 1970, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,031 square feet of living area. It sold for $450,000 in 2023.

LAGUNA YACHT VILLAGE

Michael and Wendoly Reichert, trustees, of Longboat Key, sold the Unit 3 condominium at 6326 Laguna Drive to Michael McCredie, trustee, of Ashland, Massachusetts, for $1.7 million. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,152 square feet of living area. It sold for $940,000 in 2021.

In with the new NOW TAKING CONTRACTS

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

LONGBEACH VILLAGE

Uma Bedi, trustee, of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, sold the Unit 11 condominium at 7105 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Mary Kathryn Varsanik and Robert Varsanik, of Rochester, Michigan, for $850,000. Built in 1974, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,170 square feet of living area. It sold for $449,700 in 2003.

BANYAN BAY CLUB

Larry Anstine, trustee, and Brenda Stier-Anstine, of Sarasota, sold the Unit 305 condominium at 5265 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Michael Gus

TOP BUILDING PERMITS

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

These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of Feb. 16-22 in order of dollar amounts.

Longboat Key Address

Permit

Applicant

5056 Gulf Of Mexico Drive

New Con — Res

GFY Trustee

Amount $4,000,000

Services LLC

3611 Bayou Circle

Alt/Renovation

Michael Stearns

$250,000

5056 Gulf Of Mexico Drive

Alt/Renovation

Gfy Trustee Services LLC

$200,000

676 Tarawitt Drive

Alt/Renovation

Erik Bergenholtz

$189,421

455 Longboat Club Road # 807 Alt/Renovation

Pierre 807 LLC

$173,300

5550 Gulf Of Mexico Drive

Dock/Seawall/Lift

Longboat Key Town

$150,985

548 Halyard Lane

Windows/Doors

Charles And Susan

$140,553

724 Marbury Lane

Roof

Buchheit Trust Ralph Haschke

$65,000

Luigi Matteucci

$47,500

Richard J Fiore

$28,827

En Pointe | 941.685.1598 | enpointesarasota.com | From $2,775,000

The Residences at the St. Regis | 941.213.3300 | SRResidencesLongboatKey.com

New Construction 635 Jungle Queen Way

Electrical New Construction

938 Spanish Drive S.

Windows/Doors

Revocale Trust

938 Spanish Drive S.

Windows/Doors

Margaret Patterson

$28,752

597 Buttonwood Drive

Electrical

Longboat Buttonwood

$25,000

Lola Ans Holding LLC

$25,100

Michael Connantuono

$20,194

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

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

New Construction Plumbing

MichaelSaunders.com/New-Homes | 844.591.4333 | Sarasota, Florida

Alt/Renovation 2055 Gulf Of Mexico Dr #101 Windows/Doors

Prices as of November 2023

Source: Town of Longboat Key

419898-1

3501 Mistletoe Lane

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

YOUR CALENDAR

YOUR TICKET INCLUDES: • Live Music by Akiem • Gourmet Chef Catered Dinner Overlooking Sarasota Bay & Movie Under the Stars • Complimentary Beer, Wine, Champagne & Bottled Water • Fresh-popped Popcorn & Candy Concessions • Fantastic Prizes Awarded throughout the evening

EXCITING LIVE AUCTION ITEMS INCLUDE: • Round trip for 2 on the Fast Cat Ferry to Opal Key West Resort for 3 day/ 2night stay in fun, funky Key West Florida!

• 3 day/2 night stay at Ocean Properties’ brand new Sanibel Island Beach Resort!

• 3 day/ 2 night stay at the exclusive Jupiter Beach Resort on Jupiter Island.

• Catered Sunset Cruise for 4 guests on a beautiful yacht with hor d’ oeuvres, wine, champagne and beer.

• President’s Gift - Private Wine Tasting for up to 12 guests. This 90-minute experience includes 8 bottles of wine, a wine consultant and appetizers!

• Behind the Scenes VIP Tour of Mote Marine Aquarium and Research Lab for 6 people.

• Dinner for 6 guests at Zota Beach Resort.

• Casa Del Mar Beach Resort Stay’cation with Longbeach Café breakfast for 2.

• Full Day Cannon’s Boat Rental, and much MORE!

SUNDAY, MARCH 3

A TRIBUTE TO UKRAINE 2-3:30 p.m. at the Education Center at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. Steve Kramer, classical cellist, will perform a classical music concert featuring Rachmaninoff, Leonard Bernstein and more as a tribute to Ukraine and to honor his family, all musicians and artists who are immigrants from Kyiv, Ukraine.

Members $45; nonmembers $55.

Champagne reception included.

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

BEST BET FRIDAY, MARCH 1

BARK IN THE PARK 3-5 p.m. at the Bayfront Park, 4052 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Join Town Manager Howard Tipton at a social for dogs and humans. He will provide an overview of the enhancements the town is planning. Residents will be able to share ideas and discuss how residents can help make it all happen.

Call 316-1999.

RECURRING EVENTS MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY LONGBOAT LIBRARY From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., MondayFriday. 555 Bay Isles Road. Call 383-2011.

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND FRIDAYS

Date:

Friday, March 22, 2024

Rain Date:

March 23, 2024

Cocktails: Dinner: Live Auction: Movie: Location:

5:30pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 8:00pm Bayfront Park 4052 Gulf of Mexico Dr, Longboat Key $75 per person

Admission:

To purchase tickets, Visit LBKGardenClub.org or call 941-387-1909

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND SATURDAYS

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.

Co-Chairs

Susan Phillips and Steve Branham

420794-1

sponsored by...

Proceeds will fund beautification projects at the Longboat Key Town Center, grants to local non-profits for environmental projects and Scholarships for students focused on environmental and conservation-related studies.

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.

Courtesy image

GENTLE CHAIR YOGA From 9-10 a.m. at the Education Center at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. Remain stabilized in a chair and enjoy all the benefits of traditional yoga with certified yoga teacher Emme Shapiro. Join anytime on a prorated basis. Pay as you go: members $13; nonmembers $15. Eight sessions: members $95, Non-members $110. Call 383-8222 or email EdCenter@LongboatKeyTemple.org.

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 Mollasis, 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.

#BeTheOne who gives in support of growing local entrepreneurs by donating to the

Economic Development Foundation of Sarasota County (EDF) during the #GivingChallenge2024. Your one-time donation will be matched up to $100 by The Patterson Foundation.

Through our programs Sarasota County entrepreneurs who are making a capital investment can access services including liaison to government zoning, permitting, utility partnerships, and access to resources. An entrepreneur can call our team at any time for direct growth assistance and information on the best local resources for their needs.

The Economic Development Foundation of Sarasota County is a 501(c)(3) organization focused on carrying out initiatives that have a positive impact on business growth, the entrepreneurial ecosystem, and workforce development to further the tax-exempt purposes and mission of the Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County (EDC). To learn more, visit: https://www.edcsarasotacounty.com/foundation

The 2024 Giving Challenge is presented by the Community Foundation of Sarasota County with giving strengthened by The Patterson Foundation.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

ADVERTISEMENT

There’s a Lot More to Learn About Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

SUNRISE / SUNSET

FRIDAY, MARCH 1

WEATHER

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

FORECAST

Sunrise Sunset

High: 76 Low: 66 Chance of rain: 8%

Thursday, Feb. 29

6:55a

6:31p

Friday, March 1

6:54a

6:32p

Saturday, March 2

6:53a

6:32p

Sunday, March 3

6:52a

6:33p

SATURDAY, MARCH 2

Monday, March 4

6:51a

6:33p

High: 76 Low: 66 Chance of rain: 24%

Tuesday, March 5

6:50a

6:34p

Wednesday, March 6

6:49a

6:34p

MOON PHASES SUNDAY, MARCH 3 High: 76 Low: 66 Chance of rain: 45%

March 3 Last

March 10 New

March 16 March 25 Quarter Full

TIDES Highs Lows

Leighton Allenby took this photo of a pen shell on Longboat Key Beach.

Thursday, Feb. 29

2:46a

2:07p

8:28a

10:05p

Friday, March 1

3:50a

2:37p

8:39a

11:09p

Saturday, March 2

5:37a

3:15p

8:25a

—

Sunday, March 3

—

4:04p

12:31a

—

Monday, March 4

—

5:14p

2:01a

—

Tuesday, March 5

—

6:46p

3:18a

—

Wednesday, March 6

—

8:16p

4:18a

—

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

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

Come Shop our Showrooms!

crossword

celebrity cipher

LIVING IN THE PAST by Ricky Sirois, edited by Jeff Chen

DOWN 1 Neighborhood in NYC or

61 Mantra chants 62 UFO pilots 63 Gainesville collegians

4 Classic

65 College QB, stereotypi-

D NTYCF SYPVS PV JKU CTYVS

5 Tease

cally 66 Per item

FPTUNJPYV.”

6 This, that or the other 7 Further down?

67 “___girl!”

8 Some members of Parlia-

69 Actor Shepard of “Par-

ment

enthood”

9 “You may be ___ some-

70 Willing to give it a go

thing!”

73 Plant part

10 Prefix with “thermal”

76 Follow, as at a job

13 Subsequently

81 Against

14 Area at a racetrack

82 Film unit

15 Captivate

83 When the Battle of

16 Martin Scorsese, for one

Normandy began

17 Important element in

85 Cuban line dance

making a paper airplane

86 Tool used on maple trees

18 Drove, as cattle

87 Jazz musician Baker

24 Source of metal

88 ___ California (Mexican

25 St. Kitts and ___ (Carib-

state)

bean country)

90 Type of drum

30 Campsite remnants 33 Totally off-base, informally

ties (Abbr.)

the mall?

98 With jocularity

1 “Laughter in the Rain”

36 Partner in marriage

71 Bit of pageant wear

100 Sitting still

singer Neil

38 Tight undergarment

72 French artist Henri

7 Online journal

41 *Flambeed fondue?

74 Used to be

11 Comedic act

43 Grp. for physicians

75 Up-to-the-minute

101 Awesome, in dated slang 37 Most likely to sunburn, 102 Very early maybe

14 Princess in the Mario

44 Experimental location

77 Pawns on a chessboard,

106 Despise

franchise

46 Simple tops

e.g.

108 Fruit used in gin

19 Starting point

47 Christmas carol

78 Topmost figure

109 Small part of a yard

20 Solo

48 *Result of giving Light-

79 Anxiety about exclusion,

113 Type of chair named for

21 “Not again!”

year new batteries?

for short

its creator

22 Harden (to)

51 High-security clearance

80 Listened to

115 *Did physical therapy on

23 *Got a piercing?

56 Shopping jag

84 One in a cast

the water?

26 Home run, slangily

57 Let out

87 *Sign at a nudist colony? 119 Secret supply

105 Attire for some queens

27 Home to the Nobel Peace 58 Word after “lost” or “fine” 89 What a drawbridge might 120 Spanish gold 121 Honolulu’s island span 59 Boost Center 28 Mulligan

60 Emotionless

90 Loafer, for one

122 Ascended, as a rocket

29 Justice Kagan

62 ___ Claire, WI

91 Unhappy

123 On edge

31 Lake near Las Vegas

63 “Can we talk, real quick?” 92 English breakfast, e.g.

32 Winter clothing option

65 Worn out

93 *Secured a loan with a

125 Mardi ___

35 Many Monopoly proper-

68 *Extracted bargains at

first-edition Thoreau?

126 Renter

124 Nine-digit fig.

34 “You bet!”

35 Flabbergasted

38 Goes on and on 39 “My turn” 40 Motorola phone brand 41 Hide’s partner 42 Own up (to) 45 ___ Jean King (tennis legend) 46 Financial hostilities 49 More punchy, flavorwise 50 Symbol of control 51 “The One,” romantically

“IO IRJJRVP RJ FV DGBNG UGTRPK IG FTG LRPK VX RIYEGJJRVP FTBF SRDD IBLG RF GBJRGE XVE FTVJG STV XVDDVS.”

IBERBP BPKGEJVP

“FOHU R FXN X WRA, ZV IXKOHG ...

ARAU’K KORUW R FDPTA XZDPUK KD XUVKORUC. ZV ZDKOHG XTND.” XGBORKHBK IGXUW CHOGV Puzzle Three Clue: P equals U

79 Sustenance

HUVVPMUT STDVJ

Puzzle Two Clue: Y equals P

12 “So much for that idea”

“PJ’X LUJJUT JY CDAG DAYVU, JKDV CPJK

Puzzle One Clue: M equals F

11 Cone-shaped corn snacks 78 They’re similar to similes

©2023 Universal Uclick

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

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

London

2 Greek equivalent of Cupid 64 Midwestern slang word expressing surprise 3 Common pickle flavor

ACROSS

417955-1

at MANASOTA FLOORING INC

© 2023 NEA, Inc.

93 Most inclusive 94 Commercial fee 95 Alpaca cousins 96 Break down, as food 97 Debate after a debate 99 They sometimes come in blocks 102 Hello, in 121-Across

sudoku

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

103 Doughnut shape 104 Actress and activist Ruby 107 Frat members 108 Feature of the Texas state flag 110 It’s most useful after being broken 111 Rock band Motley ___ 112 Pump up

52 Humble

114 Reluctant to engage

55 Alphabet area?

Cup

53 Civil rights pioneer Parks 116 Tail ... or one with a tail 117 Org. awarding the Grey 54 Nights before 58 Contented sigh

118 Flamenco dancer’s cry ©2023 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

2-29-24

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

RED PAGES INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888

Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals

redpages@yourobserver.com • yourobserver.com/redpages DEADLINES: Classifieds - Monday at 2PM 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.

Merchandise Wanted

Autos Wanted

GOLD, SILVER BUYING w/ CASH. RETIRED INVESTOR Diamonds, Coins, Jewelry, Antiques. Free House Calls.

Discrete/ Confidential. Call David 813-439-2694

CASH FOR YOUR CAR We come to you!

Ho Ho Buys cars.

941-270-4400.

WANTED TO BUY Vintage/Old Costume Jewelry & Clothing in large amounts. Jane (941) 356-1568

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

Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

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

BEAUTIFUL, LARGE renovated Bayport condo w/ private beach & bay access. 1,720 sq. ft. 2 bd / 2 ba w/ sitting room on 26 acre preserve. Tennis courts, pickleball courts, large heated pool. $8,500 / month + tax. 30 day min Avail. March 2024 - May 2024 Call 941-565-4879 or 336-848-3094 FAIRWAY BAY 1,300 SQ.FT., 2 bed, 2 bath (en suite) furnished condominium w/ w/d, sleeps 6. Extended patio. Direct water views of downtown Sarasota.

Pool, fitness room, beach club included. Available May - Dec 2024 . $5,500/month. Jan - April 2025. $7,500/ month. No Pets.

Call 941-545-4471 GREAT FINDS LOCATED HERE!

Condos/Apts. for Rent

LONGBOAT KEY EPIC HOME CARE Personal Care-Respite Care Alzheimer’s Care Light Cleaning Med Administration Meal Prep Shopping, Errands & More

Lovely 3/2/2 furnished home w/ heated pool, dock, walk to beach.

Washer/dryer. Screened lanai.

New roof. No pets/no smoking.

2BR/1.5BA LONGBOAT KEY This apartment is nestled near nature park and short walk to private beach access. Easy access to Sarasota Bay and Bradenton. This is an annual rental. $2,500 (201) 681-7297

Available Now! $4,500 / month.

Annual lease

Call for a FREE Evaluation!

941-536-6372 Epichomecareprovider@gmail Rosa Torres- Owner

Owner: 941-504-1492

Use the RED PAGES to clean out your garage

CALL 941-955-4888

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.

Condos/Apts. for Sale

Items Under $200

Adult Care Services

WEEKLY MONTHLY

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

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

SEASONAL RATES

Painting

2012 BMW 335IS. 32,000 mi.

Excellent condition. $22,000 Call: 941-228-7776

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

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

Attorney

Divorce without Lawyers

Sarasota: 3 Bed, 2 Bath, 1 Car Garage House $359,000

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

GARAGE SALE

As low as $17.50 per week!

M-F

941-955-4888

Ask about our special rates!

Wagner Realty

2/2 Condo Plantation Golf Club Venice, Call for Price

SARASOTA INTERIOR PAINTING

Since 1939 www.rentalsonlongboat.com

Pool Home, New windows, hvac, Completely Updated $699,000 Brooke O’Malley | Club Realty Call 941-726-2677

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

Residential & Commercial.

Fully Insured.

CALL or TEXT Don 941-900-9398

Auto Service

Doors

SELL YOUR CAR!

Sliding Glass Door Repair

WE COME TO YOU

“FIX IT - DON’T REPLACE”

HoHoBuysCars.com Caregiver/Companion

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

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

5-Star Rated

William J. Leininger, JD

420656

941.270.4400

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

BOOST YOUR BUSINESS Showcase your products or services.

CALL 941-955-4888

Furniture Repair

Patio Furniture Repairs.com

420654

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

Furniture Sales & Repairs Cushions • Slings • Re-powdercoating

419980

Find anything in the RED PAGES

941-955-4888

Longboat Key, FL 34228

FAST • EASY • SAFE

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.

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

Visa/MC

101

Bradenton: Condo, 2 bed, 2 bath$229,900 Pet friendly 55+

AMI TURTLE WATCH OFFICE ASST. 20 hr/wk. Work from home near AMI. Skills: Scheduling, Inventory, Purchasing, Data Entry, Website. Some local travel. Email director@islandturtlewatch.com

Reservations 941-383-5577 wagnerlbkrentals@gmail.com

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.

5360 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Suite

5 ACRES Lake Barn Near Fruitville I-75 Call for Price

Help Wanted

Houses or Condos

RED PAGES

NESPRESSO VERTUO LINE coffee maker. Lightly used. $50 Call 416-564-7779

Autos for Sale

Homes for Sale

Between

420655

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

1BR/1BA WHITNEY BEACH Enjoy daily a beautiful waterfront view onto Bishops Bayou where dolphin, manatee & pelicans feed. Recently renovated, fully furnished, contemporary condo at Whitney Beach. Realtor selected. $550,000 (770) 335-9211

jobs

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

Ad runs 2 consecutive weeks in 1 Observer.

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

auto

Beachfront, Bayfront and In

941-504-0903

420652

stuff

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

Please call Marc: 941-321-0707

real estate

Service Directory - Friday at 3PM • PAYMENT: Cash, Check or Credit Card

home services

Made for where you live. Here!

FREE PICKUP / DELIVERY • FREE ONSITE QUOTES

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

Insurance

BLUE BOX

MIC INSURANCE

H A N DY M A N

804.318.0022 | 941.279.5317

Bathroom & Kitchen Remodeling • Concrete • Sheeting Drywall • Painting • Fence • Parquet • Stone Flooring • Tiles

INTERIOR RENOVATIONS & ANYTHING FROM THE GROUND UP

Res. | Com. | Lic. | Ins.

Formerly known as Sunrise Windows

419983

GET YOUR LIFE BACK!

STANDARD WINDOWS

INCLUDING SCREENS, TR ACKS, MIRRORS & FANS

SPECIAL 00

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

Health

5

$

Painting

Do You Have Neck or Low Back Pain?

Do You Want To Avoid Surgery?

FREE CONSULTATION 941.358.2224 Recognized Among the Best Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Physicians in America

senior citizen discount. www.sunsetwindowcleaningsrq.com

PURIFIED WATER WINDOW CLEANING AVAIL ABLE!!

SARASOTA INTERIOR PAINTING, LLC

Give Us a Call - We Can Help

150

25 $

UP TO

Home • Condo • Auto • Umbrella • Boat • Flood

420647

KEENS HANDYMAN SERVICES

EXPERIENCE KNOWLEDGE SOLUTIONS

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

KEENS HANDYMAN SERVICES TEXT OR CALL 574-354-7772

Serving Longboat Key Since 2005

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

419967

Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES 941- 284 - 5880 This week’s Crossword answers

High End Interior & Exterior Painting Services

FULLY INSURED • OWNER OPERATED

Board Certified in the specialty of non-surgical spinal decompression

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

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

419921

Power Washing Pressure Washing

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.com

419981

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

Pressure Washing

Honesty, Integrity and Pride

• Roofs • Pool Cages • Decks • Driveways Roofs • Pool Cages • Decks • Driveways ••Deck/Paver Sealing • Gutter Cleaning • Deck/PaverAnd Sealing • And Much More Much More!

Cleaning and Landscaping

Serving Sarasota/Manatee Area Since 2004

419946

Handyman Services Home Watch Storm Preparation & Other Services

BEFORE

AFTER

©2022 Universal Uclick

941-544-1066 | scaperotta@aol.com Italian American Owned

BOOST YOUR BUSINESS Showcase your products or services.

Licensed, Bonded, and Insured

coquinaservices@gmail.com

Roofing

419982

941-920-7065

CALL 941-955-4888

Kenneth Fuhlman Inc.

Landscaping & Lawn

Building & Roofing Contractor

Gardener On Call

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

CALL 941-302-3933

419925

LANDSCAPING • LANDSCAPE CLEANUP • PRUNING • WEEDING Flowers, Palms, Container Gardening, Tree Trimming

CREATE BUZZ!

1/10/23, 10:25 AM

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “It’s better to walk alone, than with a crowd going in the wrong direction.”

Jennifer Grant

Puzzle Two Solution: “My mission is to leave behind me the kind of impression that will make it easier for those who follow.”

Marian Anderson Puzzle Three Solution: “When I was a kid, my father ... didn’t think I would amount to anything. My mother also.”

Architect Frank Gehry

This week’s Sudoku answers

BLACK LABEL CAR SERVICE

Luxury for Less

941-248-4734

10% off

©2022 NEA, Inc.

Airports, Concerts, Dinners & Cruises www.towncarservicebradenton.com 410036

420659

Call 941-955-4888

YourObserver.com/RedPages

chrome_qrcode_1671726737617.png

Transportation

Advertise your business or services in the Red Pages.

420658

941-626-3194

Licensed & Insured CCC - 058059 CBC - 1253936

You’re only cheating yourself.

Home Services

peekers’ place

Insurance

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

1/1

SECUR-ALL INSURANCE AGENCY

Sandra Smith | 941.383.3388

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!

CALL 941-955-4888 / YourObserver.com/RedPages

420657

Alex Demir

Windows

420660

Handyman

21B

22B

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

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

EN PROVENCE

2151 GULF OF MEXICO DR. #5 3BR/3BA | 3,400 SQ FT Outstanding Sunset Views | Gourmet Kitchen | High Ceilings Private Elevator to Residence | Summer Kitchen | 2-Car Garage

Career Sales Volume

Top 100 Agents RealTrends — All Florida

$4,450,000

6401 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE LONGBOAT KEY $5,875,000

CE

54 Years

I PR

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

W

Combined Real Estate Experience

NE

NEW LISTING

www.ackermansrq.com RYAN ACKERMAN (305) 205-7700 (941)387-1818

THE ACKERMAN GROUP

BARBARA ACKERMAN (941) 780-6045 (941)780-6045

941.387.1820

W

I PR

GRAND BAY I

$1,995,000

3060 GRAND BAY BLVD., #112 | 3BR/2BA | 2,250 SQ FT Completely Updated | 1st Floor Residence | Large Bayfront Terrace | Fully Furnished | NW Corner Residence | Pet-Friendly

19225BR/5 HARBOURSIDE #1101 | 2BR/2BA TOWNHOME FULL BADR., & 4.5 HALF BA | 6,355 SQ FT Updated Kitchen & Baths | Finished A/C BonusWine & Recreational Area | Private 2-Car Garage Luxury Estate Home | 2,000 Bottle Room | Whole-Home Generator Wood Floors | Fireplace | Resort-Style Amenities Private Beach Club Membership

101 SUNSET DR., #402 | 3BR/3BA | 2,179 SQ FT Direct Bay Front | Updated | Quiet Downtown Location | Low Condominium Fees | Under-Building Parking

NG

E

P BAY V - LONGBOAT KEY GRAND

$975,000

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

TANGERINE BAY CLUB

GRAND BAY I - LONGBOAT KEY

GRAND BAY V

$2,249,000

$2,195,000 PIERRE - LONGBOAT KEY

$4,750,000

THE SEA BREEZE - SIESTA KEY

$2,695,000

3330 SABAL COVE LN. | 4BR + DEN / 4 FULL & 2 HALF BA Wide Lake Views | High Ceilings | Open Kitchen | New Roof Covered Patio | Screened-In Pool and Spa | 2-Car Garage

CE

N DI

N

PE

$2,375,000

$4,900,000 SABAL COVE - LONGBOAT KEY

G

I PR

$4,750,000

455 LONGBOAT CLUB RD, PH #4 | 5BR/4.5BA + OFFICE 1,100 SQ FT of TERRACE | 17 FT Ceilings l Year-round Sunrises & Sunsets I 360° Views of the Gulf, Bay, more

GRAND BAY II - LONGBOAT KEY

1241 GULF OF MEXICO DR. #401 | 3BR/5BA | 3,400 SQ FT Panoramic Gulf Views | 3 Waterfront Terraces Private Elevator Lobby | All En-Suite Baths | Gated Pet-Friendly Community

CE

PE

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

$895,000 WATER CLUB I

PENDING SALE 3080 GRAND BAY BLVD., #533 | 2BR/2BA | 1,413 SQ FT 2 Large Private Terraces | Rarely Available Capri Floor Plan Floor-to-Ceiling Windows and Sliders

PIERRE - LONGBOAT KEY

$5,985,000

I ND

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

1211 GULF OF MEXICO DR., #801 | 3BR/3BA | 2,100 SQ FT Rarely Available Corner Unit | 180 Degree Bay, City & Gulf Views | Split Floor Plan | Expansive Living Room & Dining Area

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

$829,000

1922 HARBOURSIDE DR., #1101 | 2BR/2BA TOWNHOME Updated Kitchen & Baths | Finished A/C Bonus and Recreational Area | Private 2-Car Garage

NG

CHEROKEE PARK WEST OF TRAIL

$1,090,000 THE PROMENADE - LONGBOAT KEY

370 GULF OF MEXICO DR. #416 | 3BR/3.5BA | 2,476 SQ FT All New Hurricane Impact Doors and Windows New A/C | Gated Pet-Friendly Community | Excellent Amenities | 2-Car Garage

W

$1,975,000 FAIRWAY BAY

LAWRENCE POINTE DOWNTOWN

I ND

NE

$5,695,000 $829,000

E IC 1-4 R P W SUN E N N E OP

CE

NE

CHEROKEE PARK FAIRWAY BAY 1655 SOUTH LONGBOAT KEY DR.

W

NE $2,900,000

I PR

LAWRENCE POINTE - DOWNTOWN

$2,169,000

9008 MIDNIGHT PASS RD., #5 | 3BR/3.5BA | 3,700 SQ FT 101 SUNSET DR., #402 | 3BR/3BA | 2,179 SQ FT 455 LONGBOAT CLUB RD, PH #4 Private 2-Car Garage & Roof Top Terrace | Full-Floor Penthouse Updated | Quiet Downtown Location | Low Condominium Fees 5BR/4.5BA + OFFICE l 1,100 SQ FT of TERRACE 10 FT Ceilings | 2 New A/C Units | Deeded Boat Dock Under-Building Parking | Unobstructed Sunset Views 17 FT Ceilings l Year-round Sunrises & Sunsets I 360 Degree OAKS $2,330,000 CONDO ON THE BAY TOWER II $1,349,000 Views of the Gulf, Bay, Downtown, Siesta Key & John Ringling $1,645,000 GRAND BAY II 360 NORTH RD. | 3BR/3.5BA | 2,913 SQ FT 3040 GRAND BAY BLVD., #221 | 3BR/3.5BA | 2,925 SQ FT 988 BLVD OF THE ARTS #816 | 2BR/2BA | 1,555 SQ FT Bridge I On-site POINT Mgt, Guest Suites, Fitness & More

Brand New Construction | High Ceilings | Gourmet Kitchen w/ Furnished | 2 Garage Parking Spaces | Wraparound Terrace ST. ARMANDS • FT 443Ceilings JOHN RINGLING BLVD., STE., F | SARASOTA, FL 34236 Center Island | 2-Car Detached Garage with EV OFFICE ChargerLOCATION10 | Pet-Friendly

Incredible Bay, Bridge & Sunset Views Screened-In Tiled Waterfront Balcony | Custom Updates | Pet-Friendly Community

NG

I ND

PE

$2,495,000 THE SEA BREEZE

3040 GRAND BAY BLVD., #283 | 3BR/3BA | 2,550 SQ FT Custom Updated Kitchen | Built-In Office Area | New Porcelain Tile & Oak Wood Floors | Private Elevator Foyer | Pet-Friendly

$2,900,000 ROYAL ST. ANDREW

9008 MIDNIGHT PASS RD., #5 | 3BR/3.5BA | 3,700 SQ FT Private 2-Car Garage and Roof Top Terrace | Full-Floor Penthouse | 10 FT Ceilings

$1,899,900

555 S. GULFSTREAM AVE. #901/901A 3BR/2.5BA | 2,305 SQ FT | 9th Floor 1 & 1/2 Combined Residences | Gorgeous Bay & Sunset Views | Gourmet Kitchen

ST. ARMANDS OFFICE LOCATION • 443 JOHN RINGLING BLVD., STE., F | SARASOTA, FL 34236

415556-1

GRAND BAY II