Longboat Observer 3.21.24

LONGBOAT

Observer

Next step in Paradise

Longboat Key’s weekly newspaper since 1978

PAGE 1B

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

FREE • THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

VOLUME 46, NO. 32

YOUR TOWN

Library vision changes shape

Courtesy image

Rosemary Burgess and Debbie Ehret

Tea and tulips

Spring is in the air and you know what that means: new fashion trends.

The Women’s Guild at St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church hosted its 35th annual fashion show on March 11 at the Sarasota Yacht Club.

The event was organized by Kathi Shamlian and Teri Scaring. Nine guild members modeled the latest fashions from Florida-based retailer Evelyn and Arthur.

The models were escorted by Frank Toomey and Mike Nuzzo.

Makeup was done by Rachel Everhart with Mary Kay cosmetics. Aliki Gable from Evelyn and Arthur emceed the show while the women walked down the runway.

Over 25 gift baskets and prizes were raffled during the show.

All proceeds will be donated by the guild to local nonprofits.

This year’s theme was “Tea and Tulips.” President Cindy Noble said the vibrant centerpieces of colorful tulips and teacups captured the season perfectly and made her excited for spring.

Courtesy image

An early concept drawing shows the potential footprint of an enhanced library building.

All in favor? Not quite.

FEEDBACK FORUM

The county brings its refined plans for a library before Longboat Key residents.

PAGE 4A

The Longboat Observer asked readers in an online survey “Are you in favor of constructing a Sarasota County Public Library branch at the Town Center Green?”

A majority of the 124 Longboat Key respondents favored construction.

YES

NO

78

46

NOT SO FAST

Opinion: The Longboat Key Town Commission should take note of the lack of consensus in the Observer’s survey results.

PAGE 8A

62.90%

37.10%

SO MUCH TO SAY

The Observer received nearly 65 comments on its library survey. See what they had to say.

PAGE 8A

Carter Weinhofer

The Gulf Islands Ferry now operates Wednesdays through Sundays.

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Still haven’t had a chance to catch a ride on the Gulf Islands Ferry? Now there are even more opportunities to do so.

The Gulf Islands Ferry recently added another day of service to the system, now operating from Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. The service is dependent on weather.

The ferries, Downtown Duchess and Miss Anna Maria, have three stops on the schedule: Downtown Bradenton, Anna Maria Island and Bridge Street Pier. Rides last anywhere from 30-50 minutes, depending on the stop.

For more information about the schedule or to purchase tickets, visit the website at GulfCoastWaterTaxi.com.

Step lively

St. Mary, Star of the Sea hosted its annual St. Patrick’s Day extravaganza. PAGE 6B Petra Rivera

Irish dancers from the Irish Dance Academy of Sarasota performed for St. Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church for St. Patrick’s Day.

Flying high INSIDE

2A

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

Alternative discussion CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

W

hat’s next for the Longboat Pass Bridge?

That’s still up in the air.

But on March 14, the Florida Department of Transportation held a public workshop for community input for the Longboat Pass alternatives being proposed through the Project Development and Environmental Study.

At the workshop held at Christ Church of Longboat Key, a presentation video played on repeat to introduce residents to the topic before walking around the room to learn more from the display boards.

Representatives from the FDOT and project team were also available to answer questions.

Along with residents, several town commissioners and Manatee County District 3 Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge were present at the workshop.

“I think that FDOT did a great job planning everything out for residents,” Van Ostenbridge said. “It’s clear they are giving us options to think about.”

Longboat Key District 1 Commissioner Gary Coffin agreed that it was good to have the options laid out for residents and allow residents to have input. He also mentioned that all the alternatives presented looked to be safer for boater navigation.

“As a boater, I’m concerned about the navigational part of what’s there now, which is very dangerous. It’s very narrow, and there’s times when the current is super strong through there,” Coffin said.

HOW TO SUBMIT COMMENTS Comments emailed or postmarked by March 25 will still be taken into consideration as a part of the project record.

Emailed comments can be sent to Project Manager Patrick Bateman at Patrick.Bateman@ DOT.State.Fl.us.

Alternatively, comments can be mailed to Bateman at:

Carter Weinhofer

Community members had an opportunity to provide input and learn more about the project at a March 14 workshop.

Patrick Bateman, P.E. MS 1-40 Florida Department of Transportation 801 N. Broadway Ave. Bartow, FL 33830

The current bridge has a width of just under 48 feet for boats to navigate through. All three proposed alternatives have a horizontal clearance of 90 feet, which is more typical for newer bridges.

On the existing bridge, there are two travel lanes, each 12 feet wide.

One of the aspects included in all three alternatives would be to include a 12-foot shoulder on each side. That would help to mitigate traffic issues in situations like when a car breaks down or when emergency personnel need to pass through.

If no bridge alternative is chosen, the existing bridge would need maintenance, which is pricey in the long run.

“The older a bridge gets, the more it costs,” FDOT District 1 Communications Specialist Patricia Pichette said.

There are three build alternatives in consideration: a low-level bascule bridge, a midlevel bascule bridge and a high-level fixed bridge.

Two of the build alternatives will

Courtesy image

The green-shaded areas represent identified seagrass; the orange-shaded areas show identified mangroves.

maintain the drawbridge function, but each has a different height that would decrease how many times the bridge is needed to open.

One of the build alternatives is a high-level fixed bridge that would be 78 feet tall from the high water line. This alternative would be high enough so that no drawbridge is necessary.

Due to the height of that bridge, the road would need to be graded carefully to meet the existing road on either side.

On the Coquina Beach side, that means one of the beach parking entrances would be pushed north.

Closer to the boat ramp, there would be an underpass road for cars to drive through and maintain access to the ramps.

WHAT’S IN THE FUTURE?

The Longboat Pass project is not

included in the Sarasota Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization’s Long Range Transportation Plan. But the project is included in the FDOT’s Adopted Five Year Work Program, as well as the town’s longrange planning.

Design for whichever alternative is selected will be funded by the FDOT in 2026. Funding for right of way and construction is still undetermined.

But Pichette said there are certain funds and grants specifically for bridge projects that the FDOT will look into for construction.

During construction, traffic would be maintained for any of the build alternatives, according to FDOT representatives. The alternative bridge will be built to the immediate west of the existing bridge.

Also with construction of the new bridge, an environmental evaluation will be necessary, which looks into

factors like protected species, habitat, floodplain, contamination and land use.

The new bridge would cut through an area with mangroves and seagrasses. The FDOT has mitigation procedures that would go into effect and try to replace whatever is tampered with.

After the new bridge is up, the old bridge would need to be disposed of.

Though it’s not yet decided what will happen with the old bridge materials, the FDOT’s usual procedure is to work with the contractor to figure out how to dispose of or recycle the materials.

Next steps for the project are to finalize a preferred alternative before proceeding with study approval and location design.

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Community offers its say on the Longboat Pass Bridge alternatives project.

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

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CLEAN BILL OF HEALTH Courtesy image

An aerial photo of Quick Point Nature Preserve.

Sarasota Bay Estuary Program’s new report card goes beyond water quality with data on seagrass and other important indicators.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

Palma Sola Bay

I

s water quality the only indicator of a healthy ecosystem? Not quite.

The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program recently published its 2023 Ecosystem Health Report Card, which showed that all bays in the area are in good standing with their ecosystem health. The chart also shows a larger trend of the bays, from a period of stability to a decline, then back to a recovery.

Dave Tomasko, executive director for SBEP, said that water quality is one factor in determining ecosystem health, but there’s more to consider.

“People use the words water quality and ecosystem health like they’re the same thing, and they’re not,” Tomasko said.

Water quality is like dipping a bottle into the bay and looking at what’s in it, he said. But looking at the full picture requires examining data on nitrogen, chlorophyll, seagrasses and macroalgae.

Macroalgae are the large seaweeds that commonly grow on the bottom of the bay or found floating. Those plants are valuable food sources for animals like manatees and sea turtles.

But when macroalgae blooms occur, it decreases the amount of oxygen in the water which is harmful for marine life.

“If we don’t collect this information, we’re going to miss one of the big problems,” Tomasko said.

Tomasko said the SBEP came up with the idea for the Ecosystem Health Report Card around 2021, and was able to use historical data to create the chart going back to 2006.

On the chart, there are three time periods that Tomasko pointed out.

From 2006 to 2012, the ecosystem health of the bay was good and stable. Then, in 2013, a period of decline started, which went until about 2019.

Since 2020, the bay has been recovering, leading to the 2023 report that shows a good bill of health.

Seagrass is another one of the ecosystem health components, and the data of seagrass coverage fortifies the time periods Tomasko outlined.

Before 2013, there was about a 28% increase in seagrass coverage, according to Tomasko. In the decline period from 2013-2019, there was

Sarasota Bay

N Roberts Bay The 2023 Ecosystem Health Report Card showed that Palma Sola Bay continued to be a strong, healthy bay (shown in blue). The rest of the bays received a good rating, shown in green.

Little Sarasota Bay Blackburn Bay

about a 30% loss in coverage. Then, a steady increase in the last couple years.

Now, the SBEP is waiting to get updated seagrass maps. Aerial images and surveys were recently completed, but the SBEP won’t get the results back until 2025.

Based on his own observations and hopes, Tomasko said he has a personal estimate of 800 acres of added seagrass in the survey.

“Seagrass is an indicator of a healthy system, and I think it’s going to be a big increase,” Tomasko said.

“I think it’s going to be the biggest increase we’ve had in more than a decade.”

Nitrogen is also an ecosystem health indicator and, like macroalgae, there’s a fine line between “good” levels and too much. At stable levels, it’s an important nutrient for all marine life. But if there’s too much, algae blooms can occur.

Tomasko said the nitrogen levels have been good, and estimated the numbers are at the lowest in the past 15 years.

SARASOTA BAY ECOSYSTEM HEALTH REPORT CARD Year 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023

Palma Sola 3.67 3.00 3.67 3.67 3.67 4.00 3.00 3.67 4.00 3.67 3.67 3.67 4.00 4.00 4.00 3.75 4.00 3.75

Stormwater and wastewater are common contributors to high nitrogen levels. Previous years’ yellow, or “concern,” reports were caused in part by wastewater. Tomasko said while some facilities were doing well with about 95% of wastewater, the 5% was enough to set the bay back in that period of decline.

“And that’s the thing with wastewater, it’s more damaging than stormwater,” Tomasko said.

Wastewater systems have been mostly fixed since then, he said.

In 2021, the Palma Sola Bay, Upper Bay and Roberts Bay all received an A grade on the report card. Little Sarasota Bay and Blackburn Bay got B’s, which are still good.

Then, in 2022, Little Sarasota Bay dropped to yellow, or a C grade. That indicates there’s an area of concern.

Tomasko said that dip was because of Hurricane Ian, and Little Sarasota Bay was one of the bays most impacted by the storm. Since then, Little Sarasota Bay has recovered to a B grade.

In 2023, Palma Sola Bay continued to be one of the healthiest, and maintained an A grade, indicated by the blue. All other bays were green, with a B grade.

NEW PARTNERSHIPS

The SBEP was also recently asked to join an organization called the Agency on Bay Management.

The ABM is a natural resources committee of the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council. The committee brings together other organizations to encourage conversations and collaborations between the stakeholders involved in the protection and use of the region’s waterways.

Upper Bay 3.50 3.25 3.00 3.25 3.50 3.50 3.25 3.00 3.50 2.75 2.75 2.75 2.25 2.75 3.00 3.75 3.25 3.50

Roberts 3.50 4.00 3.00 3.25 3.00 3.00 3.25 2.50 2.50 2.00 1.75 2.00 2.00 3.25 3.00 3.75 2.75 3.50

Little Sarasota 3.75 3.75 3.25 3.50 2.75 2.75 3.00 2.00 2.25 2.00 1.75 2.00 1.25 1.50 2.25 2.75 2.25 3.00

Tomasko said he received an invite to join the ABM about three weeks ago. The SBEP was never a part of the agency before.

The new partnership costs nothing for the SBEP, and allows the SBEP to collaborate more with other agencies in Tampa Bay. There’s also more opportunities for peer review on approaches to management.

Sharing the approaches and data is important, since some issues between Tampa Bay and Sarasota Bay overlap.

For example, after the Piney Point incident in 2021, the SBEP collected macroalgae data in places further north like Holmes Beach — technically outside of its normal range.

Though the Piney Point spill happened in Tampa Bay, there were negative impacts further south.

“It’s kind of the opposite of Las Vegas, like ‘what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas,’” Tomasko said. “What happens in Tampa Bay doesn’t stay in Tampa Bay.” In the future, Tomasko hopes that, through this partnership, the SBEP can share its approaches and success stories with agencies in Tampa Bay, and vice versa.

He said this will be important in the coming years, as Sarasota County continues to try to reestablish a connection between Little Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. In Tampa Bay, there have been several tidal restoration projects that Tomasko said he hopes to learn from.

“We get to talk to them about improving our water quality, and we get to learn from them a little bit about how they did the tidal restoration.”

Blackburn 3.75 3.75 3.25 3.00 2.75 2.50 3.00 2.00 2.25 2.00 2.25 2.00 1.75 1.50 2.00 3.00 2.75 3.25

Grading scale Blue A Green B Yellow C Red D

“People use the words water quality and ecosystem health like they’re the same thing, and they’re not.”

— Dave Tomasko, executive director for SBEP

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

THE ANNUAL BIG

SPRING CLEARANCE

*

NG W! I GO NO ON

Potential footprint of a Sarasota County ­library branch at the Town Center Green

LIBRARY SITE

Courtesy image

County refines library plans The library is on its way, but the town could include ­enhancements like more meeting space.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

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FURNITURE+LIGHTING+ACCENTS+INTERIOR DESIGN

he ball seems to be rolling a little smoother with Sarasota County’s public library project on Longboat Key. County and project staff led a second public input session for Longboat Key community members at 1:30 p.m. on March 18 in Town Hall.

The meeting drew a good crowd, about half the size of the standing room-only crowd at the last public input session.

Sarasota County is working with the town to design and construct a public library to be built on the Town Center Green. The core library space will be about 8,000 square feet and will be funded and operated by the county’s library system.

There is also the option to enhance the library, adding more space to the building and potentially other services. Construction for the enhancements will not be funded by the county, though. The town of Longboat Key will need to organize a private funding effort to make the enhancements a reality.

MORE INFO

For more information, visit Sarasota-CountyFL.CivilSpace.Io/En/Projects/County-LibraryPlanned-For-Longboat-Key.

The March 18 meeting began with Longboat Key Town Manager Howard Tipton reintroducing everyone to the project, while also updating the community on another, similar project.

On the north end, Manatee County is working on a community center in Whitney Beach Plaza, which will be funded by the county and operated by the county’s school district. The main goal there is to provide community meeting space, as well as adult education opportunities.

Tipton said the project is progressing well.

“I share the Whitney Plaza Community Center development as I believe it can take pressure off trying to put too much into the library space,” Tipton said. “Both projects complement one another in space and uses provided, and don’t compete with our existing service providers like the Education Center and Paradise Center.”

Tipton also said that there are other spaces that hold future opportunities for community spaces, like the Bayfront Park Recreation Center and the existing Longboat Key Library.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

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Courtesy images

Left: A floorplan for the 8,000-square-foot core library. Right: A floorplan for an enhanced, 9,700-square-foot library with exterior deck, larger meeting room space and additional entryway.

Next, Director of Libraries and Historical Resources Renee Di Pilato reviewed the core principles of ­Sarasota County’s libraries, including their newly revised strategic plan.

In the plan, there are some core elements that Di Pilato said would be emphasized in the Longboat Key library, like: library as a community convener, lifelong learning, vibrant cultural life, active older adults and healthy living.

The new strategic plan also has an emphasis on programming, she said, which would be a large part of the Longboat Key project.

Di Pilato also ran through some of the most common suggestions received from the last workshop, as well as the county’s online survey.

Among the suggestions were more community meeting space, outdoor space and space available for a makerspace.

Representatives with the architect, Borrelli + Partners, walked the audience through the new floor plans and concept art. After the first pub-

lic meeting, the architects worked to implement some of the community’s suggestions into the new plan.

The core library space would be about 8,000 square feet, said architect ­Sonny Fornoles. The lobby could also be sectioned off and locked after hours, keeping people out of collections while maintaining access to the public meeting space.

Fornoles also said it was important for them to incorporate a good height to the building so that it doesn’t feel cramped or too low. The architects also plan on utilizing natural light as much as possible in the plans.

If the funding is raised and the town wants to proceed with the enhancements, the building would be increased to about 9,700 square feet, not including the outdoor space, Fornoles said.

The enhancements to the building include a larger community meeting room as well as an exterior deck, which could be covered.

Fornoles said these designs are still preliminary.

Another round of revision will

be necessary before bringing more finalized plans back to the commission on April 1, so these numbers may change slightly.

POSITIVE FEEDBACK

After the project team’s presentation, the floor was open for community members to comment and ask questions. The response was generally positive.

Planning and Zoning Board Chair David Green expressed his satisfaction with the project and partnership with the county. He also added that the board worked to update the planned unit development for the town, allowing for more flexible projects like this.

“This project is consistent and compatible with the types of things we want to have on the island to enhance the quality of life here in the next 20 years,” Green said. “I think this is a unique opportunity we have now to collaborate with Sarasota county.”

Throughout the Q&A portion, the topic of the meeting room was

“This population is changing, and it’s only going to change more over time. I think there have been a lot of great comments, I think there’s been a lot of work, a lot of meetings.”

— Elise Kidd Slansky, resident

brought up numerous times.

It was determined that the core meeting room, without enhancements, would seat about 50 people in row seating. With the enhanced version, that would increase to about 200 people.

Vice Mayor Mike Haycock questioned how those numbers would change if it wasn’t row seating, like in a configuration with large tables and chairs.

The architect didn’t have those numbers on hand, but Haycock encouraged them to look into it.

Elise Kidd Slansky said she came to the meeting representing several hundred young families that live on the island.

“This population is changing, and it’s only going to change more over time,” she said. “I think there have been a lot of great comments, I think there’s been a lot of work, a lot of meetings.”

She expressed interest in the town pursuing the enhanced version, but asked what the timeline would be for funding.

The next step will be to bring the design options for both the core library and enhanced option to the Longboat Key Town Commission on April 1 for redirection and confirmation, said Tipton. After that, a fundraising period will be from May to August. The county is anticipating the library will open its doors in 2026.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

Conflict of interest Erik Arroyo’s role as registered agent should disqualify him from future City Island talks, says resident.

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limited liability companies and corporations are required to designate a registered agent.

“For me and others that just learned about this there’s a real perception problem,” Grant said.

Arroyo told the Observer that he will defer to City Attorney Robert Fournier to advise him of any conflict of interest if there’s future consideration of the proposal. He did comment later in the meeting that, if a conflict exists, he will recuse himself from any votes regarding Park Golf Entertainment.

“I want to make it clear that my role as registered agent for the marketing company and its Orlando branch is purely administrative,” Arroyo said.

“Our office receives official mail and forwards it, something we routinely do for other companies. I have no operational or financial stake in these companies. I’ve since learned that Ride Entertainment may either change its name or do business with another entity that I’ve learned my law firm acts as a registered agent for.

“For clarity, there is no overlap of ownership between Ride Entertainment and the company that is proposing the partnership with them.”

During a previous interview, the Koffman brothers told the Observer that they are rebranding Ride Entertainment to Park Golf Entertainment. Articles of incorporation for Park Golf Entertainment were filed with the state on Jan. 27, 2023.

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Sarasota city commissioner has been accused of having a conflict of interest with regard to a privately initiated proposal to partner with the city to renovate Ken Thompson Park on City Island and to include a park golf course on a portion of the 25 acres there.

During the public comments portion of Monday’s City Commission meeting, Rob Grant said Commissioner Erik Arroyo is listed as the registered agent for Park Golf Entertainment — formerly Ride Entertainment — and Park Golf Entertainment Orlando. Park Golf Entertainment owners and brothers, Jeffrey and David Koffman, have proposed the public-private partnership to activate Ken Thompson Park.

Grant suggested commissioners reconsider their approval to allow an advisory board to vet the proposal and make a recommendation.

“As we know a 3-2 vote with Commissioner Arroyo’s support advanced this proposal for consideration at the April 18 meeting of the Parks, Recreation and Environmental Protection advisory board,” Grant said.

According to state records, the listed contact for both park golf entities is Gregory Stoeckle with an address at 4500 Carmichael Ave. in Sarasota. That address is the warehouse for Florida Design Works, a kitchen and bath company owned by the Koffmans. Arroyo is listed as the registered agent for both park golf companies.

A registered agent is an individual selected by a business to receive tax and legal related communications from the state of incorporation. Both

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

OPINION / OUR VIEW

LONGBOAT

A tough, 50-year decision

MATT WALSH

W

hat a shame. Yes, shame on us for not sending results of our online survey about a library, community center and education center to the Longboat Key town commissioners and Sarasota County library officials prior to Monday’s public meeting at Town Hall. Perhaps those results would help trigger some deeper thinking about the direction of this effort.

Based on Monday’s public meeting and the March 4 Town Commission meeting, the perception and reality are that minds are made up — no matter what, the commissioners are intent on moving forward as quickly as possible with the construction of an 8,000-squarefoot public library branch on Town Center Green.

Sarasota County library officials came to Monday’s meeting with

some modifications that shifted to accommodate a 200-seat meeting space. That is to the good.

But if you read the comments of the respondents to our online survey, it’s difficult not to think there is more to be considered about this entire process than moving forward full speed with Sarasota County Library officials.

For instance, at the March 4 commission meeting, Commissioner Debra Williams raised a valid consideration: What about The Paradise Center building? Should the town purchase it and make it part of this overall town center vision?

That received a tepid reception.

You can imagine how bringing that into current discussions could derail what is underway.

Nevertheless, if you take Williams’ question, along with the widely varied responses to the Observer survey, if you were a town commissioner, you can’t help but have some thoughts about what is best.

This effort is not about what the town commissioners want or what the county commissioners say they will fund. It’s about what is best for Longboat residents and taxpayers (they’re first) and visitors.

Now, we’ll acknowledge 184 survey responses are not a valid, scientific poll. But the responses still provide a valid indicator of what residents are thinking and what likely would result if there were a true scientific opinion survey.

LONGBOATERS’ PREFERENCES Survey question: Rank in order of priority the facilities that should be developed on the Town Center Green, with 1 being most important and 3 being least important.

Survey responses: The final tally from 118 responses showed an education center is the top preference, with a total score of 2.14, followed by a community center (2.08) and library (1.79). In terms of respondents’ first preference, the education center is the top choice (41.5%), the library branch is second (30.5%) and the community center third (27.9%).

Especially worth noting is the wide divergence in respondents’ comments. You can clearly see there is no consensus in the comments printed below on what should or should not be developed.

For instance, even though 65% of Longboat respondents favor a library branch at Town Center Green, 55% said they don’t want an 8,000-square-foot library branch.

What’s more, in the question asking respondents to rank in order of preference a community center, education center and library, the education center ranked as the top preference; the library second; community center third (see above).

But when you combine the total scores of the three facilities, the education center and community

Survey responses: Wide range of opinions Below is a representative sample of comments of readers who participated in the Observer’s online survey on the proposed Sarasota County library branch. To read all comments, go to YourObserver. com/News/2024/Mar/15/SurveyLongboaters-Want-More-ThanLibrary/

■ Before the Town considers spending additional time and money on education and community meeting space, it needs to develop and communicate a comprehensive plan for using all of the existing and planned community spaces on the Key. We also need to understand what pressing need will be served by all of these education and community spaces. My family would LOVE to see the current ineffective and unwelcoming Longboat Key Library be replaced by a quality county library.

■ Temple Beth Israel Education

Center is great!

■ I feel there is not a need for a library here on Longboat. Times have changed. More are reading from their tablet. We have a bus service that will take one to the Selby Library in Sarasota and then back home. Technology has made it easy to get our reading material without going into a building.

■ Why does this pertain only to Sarasota County? What about Manatee (where we live)? Manatee is turning an empty store in Whitney Plaza into a community center. Why does that not figure into all of this?

What about converting the private Longboat Library into a county library?

■ The Education Center is most important for Longboat Key residents and guests. Seasonal visitors come here for the educational opportunities. Permanent residents benefit from the community center.

■ I support only a community center in that area.

■ Please do this in my lifetime!

■ Yes to a library, but size should be

modeled after Island Library Branch on Anna Maria.

■ Every year we take informative

courses at the Education Center, now at the temple. We also yearly enjoy the World Affairs lectures at SILL. We would be happy to learn that the town was supporting an education center to enlarge on the availability of courses, as well as a library, which can be equally informative and educational. Perhaps the community center and education center could be combined, and use the same rooms for alternative purposes at different times of the day or week.

■ The Education Center is the key priority. It is a jewel, a blessing for the larger community, a tourism draw and should be funded.

■ Having Longboat’s library be part

■ A Sarasota County library branch

of the county library system could reduce the cost of the books.

■ The community center and education center can be in the same space and that space can be added to the public library as a second floor.

■ The facility for an education center is a vital part of the Longboat Key experience. This should be the priority.

■ Rebuild the library where it currently stands.

■ Why do they not simply put $1

million into the existing library?

Computerize the checkout system and maybe add an addition. That building fits so beautifully into the surrounding buildings. Why rip it down for another parking lot!!!! Has everyone lost her mind? Build the social building where you hope to and leave the poor library in one piece … I use the library every two weeks and shake my head every time I use it. They did not even ask the people who work there what they thought was best!!! Yikes. Think about that.

■ It would be terrific to have

■ The Education Center should go

■ I rarely agree with Matt Walsh, but

where the old volunteer library is.

■ The Urban Land Institute study recommended a town center with a community/education building.

■ We pay enough tax dollars to Sarasota and Manatee counties that both should contribute total funding for a community center.

■ My husband and I have been attending Education Center classes for 28 years. That’s all we need.

■ We give Sarasota County loads of cash. Put some back in our community!

■ There is a great library right on Sarasota. With the internet and e-books, a library is not needed.

■ Keep the Town Center Green green. We need areas to be kept green. Expand the present library instead.

the Education Center in a space designed especially for its educational purposes. The Education Center used to have cooking classes, which were very popular. At the temple, they no longer have access to a kitchen. The Education Center would benefit greatly from spaces designed just for it.

■ Do the Right Thing First and NOW.

Longboat Key contributes in annual taxes is a great deal for Sarasota. For once, Longboat Key should receive the right outcome for the right need and space. We’ve certainly “paid our dues”!

in this situation I’m 100% on board!

Laying out the dollars and cents that

is needed on Longboat Key, especially since we have been paying taxes for years with very few schoolaged residents. Please bring the library to Longboat!

■ As a seasonal visitor, I feel strongly that the library services should continue on Longboat Key. I am willing to pay a fee to be a part-time member who does not pay local taxes.

■ The real estate is far more precious than the proposed library. And there is already a library, which is hardly ever used. Why not fund and expand that?

■ This is one of the few times ever I can recall agreeing with a Matt Walsh editorial. We agree that an Amazon-like delivery of books from the Sarasota Library to a small space in Town Center would be most welcome.

■ We need a community center not a brick and mortar library.

■ I am opposed to ANY construc-

tion on the remaining Town Center land, prefer conserving open space for multiple events. I favor refurbishment of the existing facility at Bayfront Park, and the new community center at Whitney Plaza.

■ A library is not necessary. Order

books, etc., online and Sarasota County can bring materials to a center weekly or twice weekly.

■ This is ridiculous. Leave it green space.

■ The citizens residing on the bar-

center were the top preferences.

Altogether, when you read the comments closely, one of the conclusions you might draw is this matter is complicated. The discussions involve three distinct facilities and uses on a site that, in all likelihood, cannot accommodate ideal space allocations without becoming a monstrosity too large for the available site.

Something will have to give. But what? And: Who should make that decision — town commissioners; Sarasota library officials; town and county commissioners; Longboat Key voters?

This is a 50-year decision. It deserves thorough, long-term, wise thinking, and clarity with Longboat Key residents.

rier islands always seem to be the forgotten step-children of Sarasota County. All county island residents have long paid high taxes and have long made the arduous trip to the mainland to be involved in community service and to help others in the general community. It’s time Sarasota County did something for the people of Longboat Key and to let the people of Longboat Key choose what that is. … All Key residents are completely over putting up with the traffic that the county ushers to each of the keys through the “Visit Sarasota” umbrella. The only people who have to deal with that are the Longboat residents! Give Longboat residents something they need so they don’ have to drive over the bridge every time they need something like a meeting!

■ Waste of space and money. Possibly a place for the homeless like Selby.

■ A library is the heart of a community. Reading, research, meetings, education. It would be a great addition. Co-work space is how younger residents will also be attracted.

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

Friedrich Hayek

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■ Longboat Key does not need a library/community center funded and controlled by Sarasota County.

The existing library could be updated and managed more in keeping the size of the community and all controlled and managed by the people and the town.

■ We need a library on Longboat. I am a member of the current library on Longboat for 23 years. I live here year-round and support it weekly.

If the new Sarasota branch does not work out, we must find a way to update the aging library we have now. … There are too many people who don’t understand what is at stake. It doesn’t have to have a sad ending to the story of the Longboat library. Change can still embrace the old with the new. Save our library, the old one or the new. LOVE OUR LIBRARY. ■ Having commuted to work on Longboat Key for more than 10 years, I was very struck that this beautiful island really doesn’t have a heart, a central community meeting place that serves many of the components that most towns in Florida take for granted: full-time residents, snowbirds, tourists. … A combination of community center, which could have programs for families as well as adults, and also the already successful adult education center would be of immeasurable benefit for all.

■ The larger the library the better.

Do it once and do it right.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

‘If there are more than three lines of ingredients on a food label, put it back.’

MIRABAI HOLLAND CONTRIBUTOR

Editor’s Note: This is Part 1 of a two-part series on eating for longevity.

T

he phrase “you are what you eat”’ was coined in France back in 1825, by Jean Anthelme BrillatSavarin, a politician, gastronome and author.

The phrase’s meaning has evolved over the past two centuries, but it’s as true today as it was then, and it may be even more important now.

Our bodies are constantly rebuilding themselves. In fact, all the cells in our bodies, brains, muscles, bones, everything, get replaced about every seven years.

And the food we put in our mouth is what our body has to work with.

So you can see the direct correlation between what we eat and who we are.

Are we built of the best stuff to keep us alive, healthy and feeling great?

Or are we built out of junk food that keeps us moving slow, feeling sluggish and depressed.

Back in 1825, there was only fresh food. No junk, no empty calories, no chemical preservatives, no artificial flavors, colors or artificial anything.

These real foods are still available. We‘ve just fallen out of the habit of eating real food and developed addictions to the fat, salt, sugar and chemicals manufacturers have put in processed foods.

If you want to start eating better, try this. Keep a log on your phone or write down everything you eat for three days: two weekdays and one weekend day. Take a look at the food you’ve eaten. How much

of it was healthy, real food and how much of it was loaded with artificial whatever.

How did you feel after those meals? Glad you ate them or angry with yourself?

If you felt yucky, don’t beat yourself up too much. These habits develop slowly over time and you’re reading this because you’re getting ready to make the changes you need to make to eat for health and longevity.

Changing your eating habits isn’t the horror show you may think it is. You’re simply going to gradually substitute new favorite real foods for old favorite junk foods. And you’ll start to feel better as your nutrition improves.

Nutrition is a complex subject.

Scientists spend their entire lives studying and modifying what we should and shouldn’t eat and why.

Their work has changed the way we live. But you don’t need a doctorate to eat for longevity. Just a few rules of thumb can keep you pointed in the right direction. n Cut out the junk. You’ll be surprised at how your palate will change. Once you get used to better food choices, your body won’t want you to go back. The salt will be too salty, the sugar will be too sweet and the saturated fat will taste yucky. And too much alcohol will not be fun anymore. n Read food labels. When I teach my nutrition course, Lose to Win, I tell my class “If there are more than three lines of ingredients, put it back on the shelf.” Anything after line No. 3 is almost always just preservatives, chemicals and junk designed for longer shelf life. n Substitute old favorite foods for new favorite foods. Gradually regulate the amount of salt, sugar and saturated fat in your

KEY HEALTH

How to eat for longevity

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Real foods, like the fresh produce found at the Sarasota Farmers Market, are a cornerstone of a healthy diet.

diet. Nutrition labels will tell you how much in whatever it is you’re about to put in your mouth. Here are some daily guidelines from the American Heart Association to shoot for. Salt: Less than 1,500 milligrams. Added sugar: 25 grams women (6 teaspoons), 100 calories; 37.5 grams men (9 teaspoons) 150 calories. Saturated fat: 5% of calories. n Create your own personal cuisine. As you get going, you’ll find foods you like that meet healthy guidelines. It will take some experimentation, so consider it an adventure and an investment in your longevity. Below is a hint at where you’ll find them. n Mostly Mediterranean. You don’t have to stick to these foods exclusively, but you’ll find most of

what you need to build a healthy personal cuisine in this Mediterranean diet pyramid. Numerous studies show it to be one of the healthiest and most readily available while also being one of the easiest food plans to stick with.

You can also add Asian, Southwestern, Middle Eastern and just about any other seasoning to the mostly Mediterranean ingredients to give you a huge variety of choices that will make you forget about ever going back to a junk food diet.

These are the kinds of foods people who live to be 100-plus years old eat every day.

Not only the types of foods, but the quality of those foods can make a difference in how your body reacts.

Next month, we’ll look at places

in the world, known as Blue Zones, including here in the U.S., where people often live to 100 and beyond.

We’ll see how you can apply what you’ve just read and easily do what they do right now.

You’ll also learn about eating clean, intermittent fasting and how various foods affect specific health issues.

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

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

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File image

The Bradenton Beach sewer line project is set to be completed late 2024.

ADVENTURE

Home Rule Heroes

Mayor Ken Schneier, Commissionerat-Large BJ Bishop and District 2 Commissioner Penny Gold received the Home Rule Hero award from the Florida League of Cities this year.

The Florida League of Cities describes itself as “the united voice for Florida’s municipal governments,” according to a press release. The commissioners participate in committees through the FLC, and the press release said the three helped to promote local voices during the latest legislative session.

“These elected official’s dedication and hard work in preserving Home Rule serves the residents of Longboat Key well. Their legislative efforts go from here, to Tallahassee, and Washington, D.C.” Town Manager Howard Tipton said in the press release.

Home rule is defined as the ability for a local municipality to solve local issues without the interference of the state, or with minimal interference. The FLC gives this award to local officials who helped the organization to reach out to legislative members about current issues.

Schneier and Bishop also won the award last year.

Come see what everyone’s

going

D L I W

Bradenton Beach sewer project update The Bradenton Beach Sewer Improvements project continues, with lane shifts scheduled for this week.

Starting March 18, both lanes of Gulf Drive South will be shifted west between Sixth Street South and Eighth Street South. The lane shift is expected to continue through late March or early April, according to a press release.

Also during this time, Seventh Street South will be closed to traffic.

There will be temporary parking on the west side of Gulf Drive South, as well as a free shuttle service for residents and guests of that street.

The $7.1 million project is funded

by Manatee County, and will replace and relocate some of the gravity sewer system in South Bradenton

about!

Beach. Construction for this project began in early 2023, and is anticipated to continue until late 2024, according to the project website.

The Bay Sarasota receives $2M grant The Gulf Coast Community Foundation Board of Directors has approved a $1 million grant to match $1 million in anonymous donations to benefit The Bay park in Sarasota. That marks the halfway point of a challenge match by the GCCF to raise $4 million for The Bay by Dec. 31, 2024.

The funding will be used to support the design and development of a new resilient shoreline as part of Phase 2 of the city-owned 53-acre park, as well as free park programming. The Bay is being developed and operated under the stewardship of the Bay Park Conservancy in partnership with the city of Sarasota.

“We are honored that enthusiastic friends of The Bay, Gulf Coast philanthropists, chose to co-invest in this incredible opportunity for building community and continual expansion of The Bay park,” said GCCF President and CEO Phillip Lanham in a news release. “The Bay is fully aligned with Gulf Coast’s priority areas of water quality and access to green spaces.”

Since opening in October 2022, more than 400,000 people have visited The Bay, and more than 50,000 have participated in free events and programs offered in the park via programming partnerships.

“This important challenge match from Gulf Coast demonstrates the importance of The Bay and its growing positive impact on the environment and on people,” said Bay Park Conservancy Founding CEO AG Lafley in the release. “Extending the resilient shoreline as part of Phase 2 will build on the environmental restoration efforts throughout the park, treating millions of gallons of stormwater before entering Sarasota Bay.”

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

Potential for growth Entrepreneurs Jeffrey and David Koffman’s many endeavors include a plan to grow City Island’s status as an attraction.

ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER

N

ear the conclusion of the Feb. 20 meeting of the Sarasota City Commission, Mayor Liz Alpert took the commissioners’ comments period to admonish what she sees as hostility toward individuals and organizations who bring proposals to staff and commissioners.

Although not mentioning him by name, the comment was likely in reference to Sarasota resident Jeffrey Koffman, who, during the Feb. 5 meeting, pitched commissioners on a public-private partnership to activate Ken Thompson Park on City Island.

It wasn’t the first time Koffman brought a proposal to the city.

His family has a history of creating attractions, building hotels, owning a country club and operating a water taxi service. Since relocating here three years ago, Koffman has pitched a permanent carousel at St. Armands Circle park and spearheaded the one and only Winter Spectacular event in the park in 2022.

The Koffman brothers’ most recent idea is to activate the largely passive Ken Thompson Park by investing millions of dollars to rehabilitate the 25-acre city property with a beach restoration, day docks,

splash pad, topiary garden, walking trails and more. In exchange, they also want to use a portion of the park to make Sarasota the U.S. headquarters for park golf, a globally growing miniature version of the sport that is played with a single mallet-like, nonlofted club and a plastic ball.

The city would retain ownership and control of the park, Koffman told commissioners, and to help alleviate traffic congestion their company would operate a fee-based water taxi service across Sarasota Bay to City Island. They’d also like the option to include an observation deck-type tower attraction called Aerobar.

Although met with opposition from long-suffering barrier island residents concerned about traffic and others citing the use of public space for private enterprise, the commissioners voted 3-2 to send the matter to the Park, Recreation and Environmental Protection board for further evaluation.

So who are these two brothers from upstate New York and why do they continue to expose themselves to public consternation?

“Why are we doing this? Well there’s an altruism. Yes, there is capitalism, but there is altruism because without leadership, without people pushing for an impetus for change, change will never happen,” said Jeffrey Koffman. “I use the analogy of the Ringling Bridge. There was so much opposition to the Ringling Bridge, and today it is the scenic icon promoting Sarasota.”

The Koffman family, the brothers said, has left a legacy of philanthropy and entrepreneurism in New York and New Jersey, and would like to do the same in their adopted home city.

Andrew Warfield

David and Jeff Koffman at their day jobs as owners of Design Works in downtown Sarasota.

HOTELIERS, TOO The Koffman family was a principal partner in buying, renovating and managing three hotels in Puerto Rico through entities affiliated with HSK Industries.

They were Condado Plaza Hotel, El San Juan Hotel and El Conquistador Resort and Country Club.

Those properties were sold in 1998, and they subsequently were partners in the purchase, renovation and management of La Concha Hotel and Condado Vanderbilt. Those properties were sold in 2021, and today they are partners in the Condado Palm, also in Puerto Rico.

“He’s got a young kid. I have kids, and I’m hoping for grandchildren pretty soon,” said David Koffman, who also serves on the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation Board of Directors. “Here there are restaurants and the bars and fun stuff for young people, but there’s really just not a lot for older people to do, and

you’re going to have an extra 20,000 or 30,000 people moving here. We thought that this would be something that we would do to try to help that, and it would be good because nobody uses that space at this point.”

VARIED BUSINESS BACKGROUND

Jeffrey Koffman has stated that activating Ken Thompson Park will result in less traffic than current levels to and from City Island, and by extension St. Armands, Lido and Longboat keys. Their plan would bring fewer people there than the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, which will move to the University Town Center area at the end of 2024, and that many who do come will travel by the water taxi they operate rather than by car. An activated Ken Thompson Park will also replace at least some of the business lost to St. Armands merchants and restaurants once the aquarium vacates, along with its 300,000 annual visitors.

He said the family has the experience and the resources to implement the plan with no risk to the city. The family was formerly involved with S&S Worldwide — where Jeffrey Koffman was chairman of the board

of directors — a leading manufacturer of roller coasters, drop towers, carousels and more. Among the Koffmans’ business entities is Ride Entertainment, a name they said perhaps conveyed the wrong message. Having secured the official marketing and sanctioning rights for park golf in the U.S., they are rebranding.

“We’re changing the name to Park Golf Entertainment,” Jeffrey Koffman said. “We’re doing it because Ride Entertainment is misleading.

We are not an amusement, and that’s why we are changing the name.”

The Koffmans began moving the family enterprise here when they acquired Florida Design Works in 2001, which in addition to the downtown Sarasota flagship has kitchen and bath design studios in Fort Myers, Jacksonville, Miami, Naples and Tampa.

“David had made Sarasota his home since 2004,” Jeffrey Koffman said. “We bought Design Works in February 2001. He was smart enough to move here three years later. I finally got here in 2020, but I’ve been coming here ever since and my mom and dad moved here in 2005.”

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and recreation vision will not be accomplished by the city alone, but through partnerships with public, private, and/or nonprofit agencies.”

“We’re aligning ourselves with the master plan,” Jeffrey Koffman said.

“We’re not creating large buildings.

We would have a beachfront restaurant, park golf — whether or not the scenic tower goes I think it would be awesome — but the most important thing is green space and we are proposing to keep almost all of that.”

The Koffmans’ first official appearance to advance their Ken Thompson Park plan will be before the PREP Board, which has yet to be scheduled. That panel will hear both sides of the debate before sending its recommendation to the City Commission.

“We’re prepared to go through the process,” Koffman said. “We want a healthy dialogue on how can we take what’s in the master plan and incorporate it. We’re collaborative, and somebody has to take the lead.

This is a collaborative process, so if people are going to be negative, they’re going to be negative. Hopefully, sound principle and judgment will win the day.”

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Sarasota Mayor Liz Alpert’s remarks regarding proposals brought before the city: “We have people who think enough of our community to come and want to make an investment in our community, who want to honor us with that and want to propose something, and we treat them like criminals.

“We vilify them. We act like we’re offended that they want to make an investment in our community, and I think we should treat them as courteously as we expect to be treated ourselves and as courteously as every resident expects us to treat them.

“They are not criminals. We may not like what they are proposing. We are free to say it’s not really what we want to do, but we don’t have to treat them like they are an affront to us that they should even suggest such a thing.

“We did it with the group that came to do the Lido Key pavilion, when they were invited to do a request for proposal to do a particular project and they came, did the exact project that was part of the RFP and they were vilified.

“We did it with the orchestra who was here for 70 years, and the fact that they would have the audacity to say that they might want to locate in seven acres of Payne Park, they were treated terribly and vilified and chased out of town. I think we have to really think about how we approach these kinds of things. It’s not civil. It’s not courteous, and we can turn it down. We don’t have to go along with it, but we can thank people that they think enough of our community that they want to come and invest in our community.”

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They continue to own Mountain Creek Resort in Vernon, New Jersey, a four-season resort that includes winter sports, a water park and golf.

Having recently sold a portion of nine holes for housing, the remainder of those holes have been converted to park golf. They are also building a park golf course at Star Island Resort and Club in Kissimmee. They also own two bagel shops in Sarasota under the Buddy’s Bagels brand.

According to the City Island plan, revenue generated by park golf, a small restaurant and the scenic tower would support the maintenance of Ken Thompson Park.

“I think if people took the time to actually see what park golf is, that they see that the water taxi helps alleviate traffic. If they read the study and understand when the traffic is bad, if they took the time to inform themselves, then a lot of that opposition will go away,” Jeffrey Koffman said.

To counter the opposition to public-private ventures in city parks, Jeffrey Koffman points to the city’s own Parks and Recreation Master Plan, which was adopted in 2019.

On Page 111, it reads: “The parks

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

GIVE BLOOD

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

• WHERE: Longboat Island Chapel at 6200 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Longboat Key • WHEN: Friday, March 22nd from 10am - 2pm Saturday, March 23rd from 9am - 1pm 420981-1

Walk-ins accepted but appointments are encouraged.

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

THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR YOUR LIFE-SAVING DONATION!

Photos by Carter Weinhofer

Clarice was recovered by Mote on Oct. 31, 2023.

— The Longboat Island Chapel —

Rescue, rehab, release

TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING & HEARING ORDINANCE 2024-06 MARCH 26, 2024 – 9:15 AM

Clarice the loggerhead sea turtle was found last Halloween and was released on March 18 after care at Mote Marine Laboratory.

Please take notice that a public meeting and hearing of the Town of Longboat Key’s Planning and Zoning Board will be held to consider proposed modifications to Title 15, Land Development Code, Chapter 158, Zoning Code, of the Code of Ordinances of the Town of Longboat Key, as more particularly set forth in Ordinance 2024-06: ORDINANCE 2024-06

CARTER WEINHOFER

AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY, FLORIDA, MODIFYING AND AMENDING TITLE 15 LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE, CHAPTER 158: ZONING CODE; MODIFYING AND AMENDING SECTION 158.114, PERSONAL WIRELESS SERVICE FACILITY DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

STAFF WRITER

C

larice the loggerhead sea turtle was ready to return home.

After more than four months of rehabilitative care at Mote Marine Laboratory’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Hospital, the adult loggerhead turtle was released the morning of March 18 at Lido Beach.

“Today was a great day,” said Gretchen Lovewell, stranding investigations program manager. “These are the days that we really live for.”

Clarice was found on Oct. 31, 2023, Halloween night, about three miles off the coast of the Venice Fishing

The public hearing before the Planning and Zoning Board on proposed Ordinance 2024-06 will be held on March 26, 2024, at 9:15 a.m., or as soon thereafter as may be heard, in the Town Commission Chambers at Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key, Florida.

All interested persons may appear and be heard with respect to proposed Ordinance 2024-06. Copies of Ordinance 2024-06 and related material associated with the amendment may be viewed at the Planning, Zoning & Building Department, 501 Bay Isles Road, between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. weekdays prior to the hearing. Questions may be directed to the Planning, Zoning & Building Department at 316-1966. The proposed amendment will affect property within the corporate boundaries of the Town of Longboat Key as shown on the map appearing at the bottom of this advertisement.

No verbatim record by a certified court reporter is made of these proceedings. Accordingly, any person who may seek to appeal any decision involving the matters noticed herein will be responsible for making a verbatim record of the testimony and evidence at these proceedings upon which any appeal is to be based (see Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes). In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, Florida Statutes, persons needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact the Town Clerk’s office at 941-316-1999 seventy-two (72) hours in advance of this proceeding. If you are hearing impaired, please call 941-316-8719.

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David Green, Chair Planning and Zoning Board Published: 03/21/2024

HOW TO HELP If you spot a stranded or dead sea turtle within Manatee or Sarasota counties, you can call the 24-hour line for Mote’s Strandings investigations Program at 888-345-2335.

For sea turtles — or dolphins and whales — anywhere in state waters or outside those counties, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s hotline is 888-404FWCC (3922).

Pier. The turtle was lethargic, and weighed down by something called epibiota — a term for organisms living on other organisms, usually as parasites.

It’s like a small ecosystem on a turtle’s shell, Lovewell described.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

donate &&shop donate donate &donate shop shop & sh

Clarice was taken down to the water on a cart.

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sea turtles as a whole.

During an average year, Lovewell said the hospital could see an intake of about 100-120 turtles.

“It feels fantastic to see this after a long, hard journey of the rehab,” Lovewell said. “Whenever we can get this full circle and get the back out, it’s fantastic.”

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“When they’re not feeling well, we’ll see more and more of that growth show up on the shell,” she said.

Clarice also had some propeller strikes, scars from previous injuries possibly from a boat. Those have since been resolved, according to Lovewell.

According to a press release from Mote, it appeared that Clarice suffered from debilitated turtle syndrome, which required immediate attention from the staff. The team put Clarice in a rehab pool and began care. She was fed a variety of organisms, from crabs to fish.

Over a couple weeks, Clarice’s environment at Mote began to change incrementally. Staff adjusted the depth of water in her tank as she got stronger and more active, and continued to monitor her diet.

Other treatments, like antibiotics, iron and deworming, helped her gain strength.

Then, 136 days after her rescue, Clarice was ready to be released.

Before getting back in the ocean, though, staff equipped Clarice with a satellite tag.

With those tags, researchers are able to follow her behavior after release, and also get insight into the habitat and migration of loggerhead

17A

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

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SUNDAY, MARCH 10 NOT FREE TO FISH 7:42 p.m., 2600 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Trespassing: Dispatch sent an officer to a report of a man fishing and trespassing on marina property. At the scene, the responding officer spoke with the complainant and the fisherman. A check for warrants came back negative on the fisherman, and the officer served him a trespass warning. He left the property without a problem.

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FRIDAY, MARCH 8

SLEW OF VIOLATIONS 7:56 a.m., 1900 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Vehicle Stop: After receiving a ping on the license plate reader system, an officer spotted the vehicle in question, marked for a suspended license. The officer initiated the traffic stop and advised the driver that his license was suspended for driving without insurance. The driver was issued a citation and notice to appear in court for that violation. But the officer also issued citations for expired registration and no proof of insurance, and warnings for no headlights in dense fog, broken brake light and not carrying a driver’s license. The driver was advised he had to have someone else come pick up his car, and he was not allowed to drive until his license was reinstated.

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Maybe something fishy 2:20 p.m., Longboat Pass Vehicle Stop: While on marine patrol, an officer spotted a pontoon vessel that appeared to be operating a charter. There was one captain with eight passengers, appearing to

SOMETHING IMPORTANT TO HAVE 11:48 p.m., 4200 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Vehicle Stop: While on patrol, an officer noticed a vehicle that was not staying straight in one lane. The officer conducted a traffic stop, and it was discovered that the driver did not have a driver’s license. The driver was given two citations and a notice to appear in court and was advised he had to contact someone else to come and get the vehicle.

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Join Us In Our Garden For Music, Wine & Cheese Classic Hits From The 60s, 70s & 80s • The British Invasion • Motown • Tropical Songs

MEET THE PERFORMERS: George DeJong was the keyboard player for Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone from 1990 to 2003, traveling the globe across the United States, Canada, and abroad.

Tbone Rhodes brings the sounds of Motown to life when he sings “My Girl”.

He enjoys paying tribute to performers like Lou Rawls, Marvin Gaye and Barry White when he performs their hits.

George and Tbone perform regularly in our area, solo as well as with groups.

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be tourists, since the captain was pointing things out and “acting like a tour guide.” The officer stopped the vessel and asked the captain if he was operating a charter, and he said he was operating a bareboat charter.

The captain provided a rental agreement, registration, insurance and captain’s license. A safety check of the vessel was clear, except for an expired set of flares. The party was sent on its way, but the officer followed up with passengers later in the day. Further information was given to the officer, and the case was sent to the U.S. Coast Guard.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

TUESDAY, MARCH 12

WATERWAY HAZARD 9:33 a.m., 800 block of Marbury Lane Disabled Vehicle: A marine patrol officer noticed a sailboat anchored in the Intracoastal Waterway. The officer was able to contact the owner by looking up the boat’s registration and retrieving a phone number.

The owner said the vessel broke down and he was in need of assistance, which he was in the process of getting. Later in the day, the officer came back to check on the vessel and owner. During the day, the vessel had been dragged further into the Intracoastal Waterway and posed a hazard. The owner was unable to get the motor started, and had no commercial assistance. Eventually, the marine patrol officer contacted the U.S. Coast Guard, which responded and assisted with a tow.

‘WHAT DO I DO WITH THIS?’ 7:14 p.m., 600 block of Cedar Street Lost/Found Property: A resident called to report a box of dog food that was left outside his house. Upon arrival, an officer spoke to the resident, who said he did not know what to do with the dog food since it wasn’t his. The officer advised him to throw it out.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 13

READ SIGNS CAREFULLY 3:59 p.m., Beer Can Island Animal Problem: On beach patrol, an officer saw a woman with a small dog on the beach.

The officer approached her, and told her about the town ordinance prohibiting dogs on the beach. She admitted that she had seen the signs at the beach entrance, but did not believe the ordinance applied to the part of the beach she was on. The officer issued her a citation for the violation.

THURSDAY, MARCH 14

BETTER TO BE EARLY 4:29 a.m., 500 block of Lyons Lane Suspicious Vehicle: An officer was sent to investigate a call for a suspicious vehicle driving around the neighborhood early in the morning. On the scene, the officer located the vehicle in question, loaded with pool cleaning supplies. The driver exited the vehicle, and said he was at a house to clean the pool, which he had been doing for the past 10 years. He said he got to the property early because he had a busy day, but said he would wait until 5:30 a.m. to start any work.

TRIBUTES Stanley “Stan” Pastor August 21, 1931March 9, 2024 The Life and Times of Dr. Stanley Pastor Dr. Stan Pastor, a resident of Sarasota, Florida and formerly of Tulsa, Oklahoma, left his life in his words, “generally well-lived and with few regrets.” He was born in Cincinnati, Ohio on August 21st, 1931 to the late Leon and Esther Pastor.

Everyone who was fortunate enough to know him will remember him differently: a brilliant orthodontist, a talented photographer thanks to his mentor Mr. Billy Elkins, a loving husband to The Blonde, a wonderful father who loved his kids(“children” was too formal a term), unequivocally, an intrepid traveler, a collector of antique cars, admirer of a good joke and the necessity of laughter, an example of the benefit of kindness, and above all, a believer in the importance of love.

He was predeceased by his first wife and mother of his children, Jan, his dear sister Anita and her husband Dr. Murry Schonfeld, his eldest son, Dr. Scott Pastor, and an infant brother, Aaron. He is survived by his loving wife Stephanie(Shaw Pastor), or as he lovingly referred to her as The Blonde, his daughter Robin, aka, D.D.(darling daughter), her loving husband Steve, his son Andy and his wonderful wife La, and his daughter-in law

Molly Pastor. His pride and joy were his grandchildren: Max, Eli, Hale, Lily, Andrew, Madelyn, Sam and Tommy.

Stan was predestined to become an orthodontist as he had two uncles that were dentists and a family friend, an orthodontist who allowed him to work in his laboratory at a very young age. He completed his entire training at Northwestern University in Chicago, Illinois. He attained his BS, DDS and MSD degrees, then taught at the Dental School for a year before he was drafted into the Army Dental Corps. It was during this time Stan married Jan and the marriage resulted in his three wonderful children, Scott, Andy and Robin.

After serving two years in the Dental Corps, he moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma where he practiced his specialty of Orthodontics for 40 years

He never lost touch with his roots and he was genuinely unpretentious and forever had an inquiring mind. with Dr. Pat Shannon as his partner for most of that period. He loved his patients and their parents and kept up with their activities after his retirement. Even though he maintained an extremely busy practice, he managed to become President of the Tulsa County Orthodontic Society, Oklahoma Orthodontic Society, and the Southwest Orthodontic Society.

He never lost touch with his roots and he was genuinely unpretentious and forever had an inquiring mind.

His adventurous spirit took him to Israel the day after his retirement from his practice.

He participated in both land and underwater archeologic excavation for the following five summers searching for King Herod’s Palace, which his team located and documented this important site. Due to his love of travel and adventure, one of his close friends referred to him as the reincarnation of Indiana Jones. His many trips to Africa with his wife Stephanie was a source of constant happiness and vivid memories.

Stan’s interpretation of death begins at birth, but he was always aware that he was most fortunate to have been allowed to lead a long and productive life. His overwhelming desire was to not become “the old man in a rocking chair who requires constant care and attention.” He never wanted to go gently into the night. His license plate personified his philosophy, “4 EVR 50” and he tried to live that life to the fullest. His parting words were “if you want something that mellows with age, drink wine.”

Stephanie has shared the following charitable organizations: Sarasota Memorial Foundation: Designate Brian D. Jellison Cancer Institute: https://smhf.org/donate/ Asolo Repertory Theatre: https://tickets.asolorep.org/ donate/q/65thanniversary Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue: https://crm. bloomerang.co/HostedDonation?ApiKey=pub_d2607b67-e8ec-11ed9e40-02ec082f7523&WidgetId=129895425 422097-1

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

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20A

HOLY WEEK SERVICES

AllAngels by the

Dr. Julia Wharff Piermont, Pastor

Sea

Palm Sunday, March 24

PALM SUNDAY SERVICE

Distribution of Palms and Procession Holy Communion - 8 & 10 a.m.

Sunday, March 24 • 10:00 AM “The Crucifixion” is a stirring oratorio on the Passion of Christ, composed in 1887

Maundy Thursday, March 28

by Sir John Stainer. Presented by the Chancel Choir of Christ Church, soloists, and chamber orchestra, under the direction of Robert Romanski.

Holy Communion - 5 p.m.

MAUNDY THURSDAY SERVICE

Good Friday, March 29 Solemn Liturgy - 12 noon

Thursday, March 28 • 7:30 PM "As We've Been Done To"

Easter Day, March 31

Communion Service remembering the Last Supper. Choir will sing “Hope of The World.”

Friday, March 29 • 7:30 PM

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Festal Eucharist - 8 & 10 a.m.

Choir, Organ and Handbells

GOOD FRIDAY TENEBRAE SERVICE

563 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key, FL | 941-383-8161 | www.AllAngelsLBK.org

“Shadows of The Passion” is a dramatic retelling of the drama leading to Jesus' crucifixion using narratives from Scripture with musical commentary. Presented by sopranos Pamela Snauwaert and Alexa Lowrey, and baritone Dennis Piermont (composer) who will also accompany on classical guitar.

Sunday Worship

EASTER DAY SERVICE

9am & 11am

Join us for Fellowship & Coffee Hour at 10am

Sunday, March 31 • 10:00 AM “Fools for Love”

5pm

A Festival Service with Choir, Organ, and Trumpet

Contemporary Style Message • Communion

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

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Visitors & Residents Welcome • Childcare Available Watch any service via livestream at: www.bit.ly/cclbksermons

Episcopal Church

40 North Adams Drive, Sarasota, FL • 941.388.1234

St. Mary, Star of the Sea,

CATHOLIC CHURCH

An Ecumenical Church that Welcomes all People Founded in 1956

Welcomes You, Your Family Members, & Friends to

Celebrate Holy Week with Our Parish Community

Open Arms, Loving Hearts, Accepting Minds

MASS SCHEDULE

CONFESSIONS: Friday, March 22, 4:00-6:00pm Saturday, March 23, 9:00-Noon | Wednesday, March 27, 9:30-Noon HOLY THURSDAY: 9am Liturgy of the Hours Prayers, 4pm Mass-Lord’s Supper & Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament after Mass until 8pm

Please Join Us for Holy Week MARCH 24TH - 10:00 A.M.

GOOD FRIDAY: 9am Liturgy of the Hours Prayers, 12pm Stations of the Cross • 3pm The Lord’s Passion, Veneration of the Cross, Holy Communion

MARCH 29TH - 6:00 P.M.

HOLY SATURDAY: 10am Easter Basket Blessings • 6pm Easter Vigil

Palm Sunday in the Sanctuary

EASTER SUNDAY: Mass at 7:30am, 9:30am, 11:30am

Good Friday Service in the Sanctuary

OVERFLOW 9:30 EASTER SUNDAY MASS IN FATHER PICK HALL

MARCH 31 - EASTER SERVICES ST

Rev. Robert Dziedziak, Pastor

EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE

in the Friendship Garden - 7:00 A.M.

4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive • Longboat Key, FL 34228 • 383-1255 • www.stmarylbk.org

EASTER SERVICE WITH ORCHESTRA

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Growing in Jesus’ Name

in the Sanctuary - 10:00 A.M.

Special music, inspiring messages, and loving folks at all services.

6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, Florida 34228 941.383.6491 | longboatislandchapel.org

THRIFT SHOP Mon., Wed. & Sat. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

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Lord’s Warehouse

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

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

941-383-3428

longboatkeytemple.org

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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.

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

R ise TO A N E W V I E W

21A

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.

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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, MARCH 21, 2024

5610 AVENIDA DEL MARE

$6,600,000

Your Siesta Key dream starts here, with this exceptional compound or beach house rental opportunity, just a short sunny block from the infamous Siesta Key Beach. This unique property, comprising two oversized and beautifully updated dwellings on two combined parcels, offers the chance to own a piece of paradise with numerous possibilities. www.5610AvenidadelMare.com

SELLING LUXURY WATERFRONT PROPERTY FOR 39 YEARS

7180 MANASOTA KEY ROAD

$3,895,000

Escape to paradise! Nestled amidst lush tropical foliage, this remarkable 4BR/5BA Key West-style, direct Gulf-front home (with private guest cottage) spans more than 3,200 SF and has undergone an extensive renovation inside and out. www.7180ManasotaKey.com

455 LONGBOAT CLUB ROAD #305

$2,995,000

1901 MORRILL STREET

$2,950,000

201 NORTH WASHINGTON DRIVE

$2,195,000

4305 MARINA VIEW WAY

$1,700,000

$1,495,000

4318 MARINA VIEW WAY

$1,250,000

4004 CASCINA WAY

$899,000

With a spacious layout encompassing 3BR and an impressive nearly 3,000 SF of living space, prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking beach and sunset views as you step inside.

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Life in Sarasota’s Historic District is an enviable experience that places you within minutes of downtown, the bayfront, theaters, museums and more. This stunningly updated, 7BR family compound offers many exciting possibilities. www.1901MorrillStreet.com

1350 MAIN STREET #1701

$2,349,000

4317 MARINA VIEW WAY

$1,550,000

3060 GRAND BAY BOULEVARD #152

1826 HAWKINS COURT

$999,000

1920 LAUREL STREET

1974 HYDE PARK STREET

225 SANDS POINT RD #6105

743 ANNA HOPE LANE

631 NORTH ORANGE AVE #107

5631 MIDNIGHT PASS RD #1005

$699,000

$649,000

$629,000

$395,000

$349,000

Step inside this downtown penthouse and discover the epitome of urban living at its best. This 3BR residence is ideally situated in a sunlit, top-floor spot, in the heart of the city center. Includes two parking spaces! www.1350Main1701.com

Introducing the new construction, waterfont community of Hunters Point, where contemporary coastal living blends effortlessly with luxury and sustainability. www.HuntersPointFL.com

In the heart of Laurel Park neighborhood is the charming Cottage Walk. This 3BR furnished home is where contemporary urban living meets the charm of a townhouse retreat. www.1826HawkinsCourt.com

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

The walkable location of this St. Armands homesite will immediately draw you in, offering an oversized, 1/4-acre lot for you to design your dream home. The best of Sarasota is a sunny bike ride away. www.201NorthWashington.com

Prepare to be enchanted by the open concept design of this 3BR Grand Bay retreat, offering breathtaking views of the verdant Harbourside Golf Course, bay and the Gulf. www.GrandBay152.com

$995,000

Create your own city dream escape at this oversized parcel in Sarasota’s historic district, where you can conveniently walk to downtown. Gulf Key beaches are just a short drive away. www.1920LaurelStreet.com

Exciting opportunity for island living or enticing rental property at the exclusive Longboat Key Club. www.InnontheBeach6105.com

This sunny 3BR residence in Rivendell boasts a brand-new roof (2023), and newer A/C in 2021. www.743AnnaHope.com

Nestled within a secure gated community, this brandnew 3BR home graces Florida’s enchanting southwest Gulf coast. Hunters Point, where contemporary coastal living blends effortlessly with luxury and sustainability. www.HuntersPointFL.com

Relish the opportunity to immediately enjoy exceptional living at Hunters Point. This 3BR new build effortlessly combines coastal living with luxury and sustainability. www.HuntersPointFL.com

Indulge in the convenience of newer construction in South Sarasota with this exceptional 3BR Taylor Morrison built home in sought-after Cobblestone on Palmer Ranch. www.4004CascinaWay.com

Experience the essence of urban living in the vibrant Rosemary District this 2BR renovated retreat. www.MentoneCourt107.com

Bike to Siesta Key beach from this charming cottage. Boasting covered parking and lovely amenities. www.WhiteSandsVillage1005.com

CA L L TO DAY FO R YO U R EXC LU S I VE TO U R ( 9 41 ) 3 8 7-1 8 4 0 443 John Ringling Boulevard, Suite F, Sarasota, FL 34236 | Pettingell.com | www.bestSarasotarealestate.net Twitter.com/RealRoger | Instagram.com/RogerPettingell | Roger@Pettingell.com The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2023 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. 417130-1

22A

Classifieds 20B Games 19B Real Estate 17B Weather 19B

MARCH 21, 2024

YOUR NEIGHBORS

Turn of the page Suzy Brenner, executive director of The ­Paradise Center, will turn over the center she’s led for seven years to Program ­Manager Amy Steinhauser.

STAFF WRITER

A

fter seven years, Suzy Brenner is ready to turn the page on her work at The Paradise Center to start a new chapter of her life. She will be resigning in April from her position as executive director.

“Longboat Key is extremely fortunate to have this wonderful community center in its midst,” said student Angela Bennink. “Everyone who is associated with it is going to miss Suzy and her lovable dog, Lahni, who is the center’s unofficial mascot. Under Suzy, The Paradise Center has become a welcoming place where friends have been made, games played and where exercise classes have helped enrich our lives.”

The Paradise Center was originally called the Aging in Paradise Resource Center. It was a volunteer-run activity center that started in 2008 at the Longboat Island Chapel.

Once the center started to grow, Donna Dunio was hired as executive

director in 2013.

Brenner had been visiting Longboat Key since she was a child, before moving there in 2015. When looking for a place to volunteer on the island, she got involved with “the Giving Challenge” at The Paradise Center.

The Giving Challenge is a national event where people can donate to different nonprofits for 24 hours.

While volunteering, Brenner talked with Dunio about giving Zumba classes at the center.

Brenner got more involved at the center and became the communications specialist in 2015. When Dunio retired, Brenner moved into the executive director position in 2017 and has been there ever since.

During her time as executive director, Brenner changed the name to The Paradise Center, added the medical suite in 2020 and moved from the Longboat Island Chapel to its current location at 546 Bay Isles Road.

Brenner said the COVID-19 pandemic affected the atmosphere of the center. Classes were moved out-

Amy Steinhauser and Suzy Brenner at The Paradise Center.

Photos by Petra Rivera

side, and the center became one of the only places to get some sort of human connection. She said it created the tight-knit community that continues today.

Brenner said she is planning to stay in Longboat Key for now but is open to possibilities for her next job.

She will still be teaching Stretch and Strengthen classes and attending events to stay involved.

Many of the center loyalists agree that Brenner has grown the center immensely. Student Eva Kendeffy said she has seen Suzy expand the center from the chapel into a multifaceted organization that offers a wide variety of classes for the body, mind and spirit.

“Suzy has been The Paradise Center’s spirit and soul,” said Kendeffy.

“She is lighthearted, but strong in organizing, planning and leading the center to success. Her outstanding work combined with her personality have definitely made The Paradise Center an invaluable asset for Longboat.”

Reuben Fernandez, who teaches tai chi at The Paradise Center, said he loves seeing Brenner’s passion for the center.

“Suzy is always looking to find the middle road when she is creating a new project,” said Fernandez.

“She genuinely cares about the folks under her tutelage and that is obvious at first glance.”

Brenner was honored at the 2024 “Celebrate on the Circle” fundraiser

for the center on March 10. Current program manager Amy Steinhauser will become interim executive director in April.

After moving to Longboat Key in 2021, Steinhauser started to work at the center in April 2023 focusing on membership, volunteer opportunities and day-to-day operations.

The two have been best friends since childhood. Having run businesses with Steinhauser before, Brenner knew that she was the perfect person for the role.

“It’s been an honor and a gift working side by side with Suzy this past year,” said Steinhauser. “Wherever she goes and whatever she does, Suzy Brenner has left her indelible mark on Longboat Key and The Paradise Center and we are all better for it.”

Brenner said she will miss the community she has created the most when she resigns in April. She is excited to see how The Paradise Center continues to grow and support it from the sidelines.

“The people that we have here are funny and open and have the best stories,” said Brenner. “It’s very intimidating to come to Longboat and try to get involved because everyone knows each other here. So I have just tried to make this a place to be able to meet people. Our community is very welcoming. It is definitely what I will miss the most.”

Suzy Brenner has served as the executive director of The Paradise Center since 2017.

“I have just tried to make this a place to be able to meet people. Our community is very welcoming. It is definitely what I will miss the most.” ­— Suzy Brenner

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PETRA RIVERA

2B

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

Courtesy image

Kelly Hunt’s design will be sold on towels in Bealls stores across Florida.

Courtesy image

Courtland and Kelly Hunt with a fish for gyotaku art.

Artist on the map Thanks to a deal with Bealls, local artist’s designs can be found in stores across the state.

PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER

L

ocal artist Kelly Hunt recently signed a deal to sell her art with Florida-based retailer Bealls, which operates more than 600 stores around the state.

“After nine years of establishing myself in the local art community, it’s really fun to be featured,” said Hunt. “I’m grateful to Bealls for putting me on the map.”

Hunt’s art has been featured in Longboat Key’s Driftwood Beach Home and Garden and is available for purchase there too.

She grew up on Anna Maria Island, which is one of her biggest inspirations when it comes to her art. Her grandmother was a watercolor artist and encouraged her to use art as a way to express herself.

“I’m a perfectionist, but with art, I allow myself not to be,” said Hunt.

“My grandma was always like ‘art is in the eye of you.’”

Due to her love for the coastal lifestyle, Hunt was drawn to gyotaku art, which is a Japanese art form that began as a way for fishermen to keep a record of the fish they caught. Hunt applies acrylic paint to fish she or her family caught and then will place it on fabric to create a replica.

Hunt started doing this right before the COVID-19 pandemic.

She now teaches classes on it in the Florida Maritime Museum.

“Teaching gyotaku art makes me so happy because everyone can be creative with it, even if you’re the

least creative person on the planet,” said Hunt. “Your fish is always going to look good, and if not, then you can fix it by adding your own touches and colors. You can’t have a bad fish.”

Since getting into gyotaku, Hunt started experimenting with different art forms. She has expanded from gyotaku to prints, puzzles, clothing, towels and home decor.

She describes her style as modern, coastal and colorful.

Hunt also makes custom pieces and does private classes for anyone in the area. One of her staples is designing maps of the area with partners who sell her art highlighted.

She recently made a map for Bradenton Area Convention and Visitor’s Bureau highlighting different locations of Bradenton.

Hunt is also passionate about encouraging people to make art. She makes different interactive products so people can paint with her designs,

Petra Rivera

Kelly Hunt designs

such as coloring pages and paintable postcards.

Hunt said she has worked hard to build connections and establish her reputation in the area.

After meeting a buyer from Bealls on Anna Maria Island, they fell in love with her coastal designs and asked if she would be interested in designing towels for the stores.

Her towel designs are sold in Bealls stores across Florida and have already sold out in some of the local

J.D., REALTOR ® , LBK COMMISSIONER J.D., REALTOR ® , LBK COMMISSIONER J.D., REALTOR ® , LBK COMMISSIONER ®

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J.D., REALTOR

Dreams

your

into an ADDRESS

412240-1

35 years legal experience • On Longboat Key since 2002 • • LBK Commissioner • 2020 Michael Saunders & Company Memorial Hospital volunteer • Sarasota LBK Former Commissioner • Sarasota Memorial Hospital volunteer “Top Sales Associates” • • Recent in: Bay Isles-Harbor | • 2020 Michael Saunders & Company Recent sales sales Westway Dr. | • 35 years of legal experience Promenade | The Pearl | Pointe Tangerine Bay | Sales Associates” Tangerine Bay | Emerald | “Top • 2020 Masters Award Winner Sands Point | Fairway Bay | Harbour Villa Bayport | Longbeach • 2022 President’s Award Winner Club | Perico Bay | Longbeach

stores. She said that discussion for her next Bealls products is underway.

Hunt loves the focus Bealls puts on local artists and how it gives people a way to support them.

“It’s cool that they want to have a perspective of a local person,” said Hunt. “We’ve lived here and we know the culture. It’s neat to be able to create and design different patterns that will really represent us, instead of it being someone from another place.”

PROACTIVE & COLLABORATIVE FLAWLESS EXECUTION

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

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

1145 Gulf of Mexico Dr #505

3BD | 2BA | 1,819 SqFt | Direct Beachfront | New Impact Windows $ 2,300,000

Cathy C. Meldahl, P.A. Your Longboat Key Community Realtor Celebrating 50 YEARS of Living and Working on Longboat Key 416873-1

941.724.7228

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

2BD | 2BA Southern Exposure with Covered Parking $ 850,000

NEW LISTING!

1055 Gulf of Mexico Drive #601 Penthouse | 2BD | 2BA Beachfront | Completely Renovated

SEASONAL RENTAL

1115 Gulf of Mexico Dr #305

3BD | 2BA | 1,819 SqFt | Gorgeous Views of the Reflection Pond $ 13,000/month

Ready to Buy or SELL?

• Impeccable Condition • Custom Designed Closets • 30 FT Long Balcony

Michael Cella REALTOR® 941.952.8649 Genevieve Clews REALTOR® 727.262.0748

Keller Williams On The Water Sarasota | Cella Luxury Group

Maggie has been a realtor for 30+ years and focuses on luxury residential real estate in South Florida.

Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate 201 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Ste. 1 • Longboat Key, FL 34228

DEDICATED TO LUXURY REAL ESTATE Owned and operated by NRT, LLC

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TURNKEY CONDO ON THE BEACH

Maggie Hicks, Coldwell Banker maggiehicks201@gmail.com 941.321.1759

421973-1

PARADISE ON LIDO

CathyMeldahl@michaelsaunders.com

1065 Gulf of Mexico Drive #302

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

3B

BENCHMARK RESULTS • STR ATEGIC MARKETING • PERSONALIZED SERVICE

Y AR U CT N SA

S EN E QU

UR O RB HA

O LL E B TO R PO

545 SANCTUARY DR #B406

3605 FAIR OAKS PLACE

3235 GULF OF MEXICO DR #A405

LONGBOAT KEY | OFFERED AT $1,999,999 MLS# A4576305

LONGBOAT KEY | OFFERED AT $1,625,000 MLS# A4578278

LONGBOAT KEY | OFFERED AT $1,249,000 MLS# A4602938

CE A L HP C A BE

RI A IN AL

ND A GR

Y BA

800 N TAMIAMI TRL #317

1085 GULF OF MEXICO DR #302

3080 GRAND BAY BLVD #515

SARASOTA | OFFERED AT $949,000 MLS# A4594771

LONGBOAT KEY | OFFERED AT $925,000 MLS# A4589636

LONGBOAT KEY | OFFERED AT $859,000 MLS# A4584268

E AC L AP SE

RT O YP BA

225 SANDS POINT RD #6106

831 BAYPORT WAY

2089 GULF OF MEXICO DR #G1-203

LONGBOAT KEY | OFFERED AT $849,000 MLS# A4599754

LONGBOAT KEY | OFFERED AT $749,000 MLS# A4601460

LONGBOAT KEY | OFFERED AT $749,000 MLS# A4598036

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE LISTING DETAILS

I A N A DDY, PA

G A I L W IT T IG

IanAddy@MichaelSaunders.com

GailWittig@MichaelSaunders.com

R E A LT O R ®, M B A

A SSOCI ATE

941.387.0100

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

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Y KE T OA B NG O L

UB L C

4B

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

WILD FLORIDA

MARCH MADNESS IS HOT, HOT, HOT!!!

Listing weekly & connecting to real buyers daily... for more of the inside track on “off market” listings or upcoming listings call the LBKathy Group, your island real estate advisors.

REAL ESTATE... REAL PARADISE

Prairie iris blooms herald spring’s arrival Highly attractive to pollinators, these native wildflowers utilize toxic compounds to repel animals.

MIRI HARDY CONTRIBUTOR

W

ith a stalk two to three feet tall, sword-like leaves and a showy purple flower three to four inches wide, the prairie iris is no shrinking violet.

Also known as the savanna iris (from Iris savannarum, its scientific name) this stunning wildflower typically blooms in the spring in wetlands, on the edge between dry land and shallow water.

Like other native plants, prairie iris play an important role in their ecosystems, where they’re a source of nectar for butterflies, pollen for bees and also have seeds that provide food to birds.

Prairie iris are rhizomatic, meaning they have a rhizome, or a system of roots, living and growing under the soil. Periodically, a rhizome sends shoots above soil, producing a clone of the parent plant.

Irises can also reproduce through seed propagation. In this case, it takes two plants to make the new one, with pollen from one plant fertilizing a female flower from another.

To assure seed propagation, as they obviously cannot move, many flowers have visual cues that attract pollinators, such as insects, to them.

Such cues include size, color, as well as showy petals and sepals (a flower’s outermost part). Some flowers, like prairie iris, even have nectar guides. These unique patterns direct pollinators to pollen, nectar or both.

Interestingly, in many bee-pollinated flowers, there is a region of low ultraviolet reflectance near the center of each petal. Though invisible to humans, bees can detect ultraviolet light and quickly home in on their target.

As plants cannot move to escape

7100 LONGBOAT DR E LONGBOAT KEY, FL 34228

$3,999,500

552 RANGER LN, LONGBOAT KEY, FL 34228

$3,759,000 SOLD

3527 FAIR OAKS LANE LONGBOAT KEY, FL 34228 The King of Queens Harbour sold at 98% of list price

$3,149,000

Miri Hardy

Skin contact with prairie iris causes a serious rash, and ingestion is harmful to humans and pets.

predators, they’ve developed means of protecting themselves from herbivorous animals. Some plants have physical defenses, such as thorns, spines or prickles.

But the most common form of protection is chemical, with plants producing a vast array of compounds to deter herbivores from consuming them. As they cause skin irritation or worse, many of these toxins help deter humans too.

The highest concentration of noxious compounds that help protect irises is found in their rhizomes, but the entire plant is toxic. So if you spot these native beauties in the wild, please enjoy them from afar. For your benefit, as well as that of our ecosystems.

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

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

ONE HUNDRED CENTRAL #623 DOWNTOWN SARASOTA - 2.5 BA $200,000 PRICE ADJUSTMENT... $1,198,000 $998,000

PENDING

524 CUTTER LN, LONGBOAT KEY, FL 34228

$2,995,000 Beautiful view of Resort Amenities with one of the largest Terraces and best Floor plans Downtown, Light Bright unit so call Me! Passionate Expertise...

Maureen Horn 420990-1

REALTOR®

440 Gulf of Mexico Drive | Longboat Key, FL 34228 941.383.7591 | michaelsaunders.com

CIPS, e-PRO, GRI, RELO, SRES, RSPS

941.539.3384

MaureenHorn@michaelsaunders.com

1075 GULF OF MEXICO DR #101, LONGBOAT KEY, FL 34228

$1,295,000

Designer Screen Shades | Fabric: Empire 5% | Color: Gray Mist

THE LIFESTYLE YOU DESERVE WITH THE REALTORS WHO DELIVER

the realtors who deliver

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WINNER 440 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228

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KATHY CALLAHAN 941.900.8088 | kathy@lbkathy.com Wallcoverings & Blinds, Inc. Since 1989

LBKathy.com

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422086-1

TODD CALLAHAN 941.224.0624 | todd@lbkathy.com Janet and Curt Mattson Owners

4801 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota Across from The Landings

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

5B

WATER

on the

Reid MuRphy PResents

LONGBOAT KEY MAGNIFICENT GULF FRONT $ 17,500,000

LONGBOAT KEY GULF FRONT $ 9,970,000

LONGBOAT KEY WATER CLUB $ 3,295,000

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.

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.

Spectacular Gulf front 3rd floor 3BD/4BA Brighton floor plan the south building of the sensational Gulf front Water Club complex on south Longboat Key. Private elevator to open floorplan & sensational views.

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

LONGBOAT KEY EN PROVENCE

LONGBOAT KEY L’AMBIANCE

$

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.

4,195,000

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.

Double lot on a wide canal that is 1.06 acres with 200 ft of waterfront. Update the current 4BD/3BA retreat or build a new waterfront home, or possibly two canal front homes.

Great tranquil location.

Stunning 5BD/7BA 3 level coastal home w/elevator.

Beautiful Gulf, beach & downtown views from multiple balconies. Short walk to beach & St. Armands shopping.

Perfect family vacation home.

LONGBOAT KEY DEEP WATER

LONGBOAT KEY BOATERS DREAM

LONGBOAT KEY BOATERS DREAM

2,795,000

$

$

$

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

Large screened lanai w/ heated pool.

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.

LONGBOAT KEY

LONGBOAT KEY DEEP WATER

LONGBOAT KEY PRIVATEER

LONGBOAT KEY WESTCHESTER

$

1,395,000

$

1th floor luxury Penthouse, behind the gates of LBK Club & Resort. 2BD/2BA split-plan 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.

2,395,000

• CANAL LOT#1 • CANAL LOT#2

1,995,000 $1,845,000 maintained 3BD/2.5BA recently updated canal $ 1,995,000 Meticulously home w/new roof. 30ft dock, no bridges to Bay. Deeded $

Build your dream home on one of north LBK’s most desirable streets. Premier boating location. Great canal leads directly to Bay & ICW No bridges. Walk to beach.

beach access & Bay views.

BUYING OR SELLING

CALL REID

3,595,000

2,325,000

5,500,000

LONGBOAT KEY GRAND BAY

1,999,985

1,200,000

for a successful real estate experience!

941.232.3304

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

REIDMURPHY.COM

416748-1

$

LONGBOAT KEY DREAM ISLAND ROAD LIDO KEY NEW CONSTRUCTION

6B

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

Photos by Petra Rivera

Judee Endean, Gayle Sobieck, Kathryn Frisoli and Kathy Brooks Peggy Jelinek, Mary Del Pup and Catherine Costello

Irish spirit

S

t. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church was shamrocking and rolling for St. Patrick’s Day with its annual party on March 16 in Father Edward Pick Hall.

Congregants came dressed in green to enjoy a classic Irish dinner of corned beef, cabbage and potatoes. People enjoyed Guinness and various drinks while watching performances that got them in the St. Patrick’s Day spirit.

George and Maureen Watterson have organized the event for the past two years.

The performances began with bagpipe player Gary Reinstrom.

Irish dancers from the Irish Dance Academy of Sarasota followed. Most congregants said the authentic performance transported them to Ireland.

— PETRA RIVERA

Marigot Craig from the Irish Dance Academy of Sarasota

Theresa Greenfield, Norman and Carol Langlois

Jacinta and Thomas Leyne

• Longboat Key • Lido Key • St Armands • Siesta Key • Casey Key • Lakewood Ranch • Downtown Sarasota • West of the Trail

Luxury Property Advisor

Call or text me 941-993-3695 So many real estate options ... let’s start exploring yours today.

Over 30 years Experience

417100-1

Broker Associate ~ Premier Sotheby’s International Realty

Spanish Main Come see the best kept secret on Longboat Key!

Make your appointment today to see a range of homes from completely remodeled to villas that are ready for your personal touch.

Kim Freiwald, REALTOR® Premier Sotheby’s International Realty | 941 - 256 - 6775 Sherrall Van Leeuwen, REALTOR®

Premier Sotheby’s International Realty | 757 - 620 - 3102

WATCH FOR OPEN HOUSES 653 Spanish Dr. North Make this one your own - $380,000

820 Spanish Dr. South Marina view - $639,000

626 Spanish Dr. South Price adjustment - $435,000

706 Spanish Dr. South Tropical view - $700,000

726 Spanish Dr. North Turnkey furnished - $475,000

860 Spanish Dr. North Waterview/boat dock - $995,000

564 Spanish Dr. North Lakefront - $525,000

900 Spanish Dr. North Boat dock/waterview - $995,000

679 Spanish Dr. South 10’ open beamed ceiling - $695,000

421879-1

Spanish Main Yacht Club. This beautiful waterfront villa community offers tranquility, great neighbors, 40 slip Marina, clubhouse, gorgeous heated pool and deeded beach access.

The secret is out! Hurry! These homes won’t last long!

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

7B

REAL ESTATE BY REAL EXPERTS NO REALTOR HAS EVER LISTED OR SOLD MORE LONGBOAT KEY PROPERTIES

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

3540 MISTLETOE LANE • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $2,295,000 3BR/3.5BA • 3,166 SF • Full bay views • Private dock

617 WESTON POINTE COURT • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $3,695,000 4BR/5BA • 4,395 SF • Canal front w/dock • Private courtyard with pool & separate casita

SCAN FOR MORE

SCAN FOR MORE

486 E. ROYAL FLAMINGO DRIVE • SARASOTA, FL • $3,750,000 3BR+DEN/3BA • 3,854 SF • 3-Car Garage • Built in 2014

520 CHIPPING LANE • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $5,975,000 5BR+DEN/4.5BA • 4,412 SF • Canal front with dock • 2 Primary bedrooms

SCAN FOR MORE

SCAN FOR MORE

3221 BAYOU WAY • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $1,650,000 3BR/3.5BA • 2,639 SF • Spacious split floor plan • Soaring ceilings • Screened patio and pool

SCAN FOR MORE

551 PUTTER LANE • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $ 6,995,000 4BR+DEN+OFFICE/5.5BA • Full Bay view • 2 Primary suites • 6-Car garage

SCAN FOR MORE

2016 HARBOURSIDE DR., #327 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $ 1,025,000 2BR/2BA • 1,532 SF • Corner residence • Direct Bay front • Covered parking

540 BIRD KEY DRIVE • SARASOTA, FL • $1,595,000 3BR/2BA • 1,924 SF • Best value on Bird Key

SCAN FOR MORE

SCAN FOR MORE

5757 GULF OF MEXICO DR.,# 102 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $995,000 2BR/2BA • 1,561 SF • First level • One pet no weight limit • Steps to beach

518 BAYPORT WAY • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $799,000 2BR/2BA • 1,601 SF • Private setting • Open floor plan • Steps to beach

SCAN FOR MORE

SCAN FOR MORE

1485 GULF OF MEXICO DR., #209 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $1,625,000 Direct Gulf front • Furnished corner residence • 2BR/2.5BA • 1,839 SF

1065 GULF OF MEXICO DR., #10-402 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $949,000 2BR/2BA • 1,392 SF • Updated • Furnished • Covered parking space

SCAN FOR MORE

SCAN FOR MORE

415 L’AMBIANCE DR., #D206 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $2,995,000 3BR/3.5BA • 2,820 SF • Gulf & Bay views • Walkdown to beachfront

700 HIDEAWAY BAY LANE • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $3,295,000 3BR/3.5BA • 3,306 SF • Waterfront • Easy access to bay

SCAN FOR MORE

3520 FAIR OAKS LANE • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $1,965,000 3BR+DEN/3BA • 2,902 SF • Separate casita for guests

SCAN FOR MORE

3080 GRAND BAY BLVD., #532 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $849,000 2BR/2BA • Golf course, and Sarasota Bay views

SCAN FOR MORE

2110 HARBOURSIDE DR., #514 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $1,375,000 3BR/2BA • 2,031 SF • Furnished • Walk-down to Bay • Covered parking

BRUCE MYER GROUP

Bruce@BruceMyer.com • 941.376.5311 • www.BruceMyer.com

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

417361-1

RANKED #10 COLDWELL BANKER INDIVIDUAL REALTOR IN THE NATION

8B

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

Photos by Petra Rivera

Chamber President and CEO Kim Verreault with Mayor Ken Schneier and Connie Darrah

Let’s eat (and meet)

Exceptional Service by your Neighborhood REALTOR®,

L

ocal businesses came together to meet, greet and eat with Longboaters at the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce’s 18th annual networking event.

“Meet, Greet, Eat” took place from 4-6 p.m. on March 14 in the Harbourside Ballroom at the Longboat Key Club.

The club provided appetizers for guests and Gold Coast Eagle Distributing provided drinks.

Kellie Spring, of ServPro, said the set up this year for the “Meet, Greet, Eat” was different, with all the businesses setting up tables inside this year. Longboat residents went around learning about different businesses and making connections. At each table, guests would receive a sticker after their conversation. People who received stickers from each table were entered to win one of the exclusive prizes picked by the chamber.

Thirteen-year-old piano prodigy Timmy Phelan played while people mingled. He is self-taught and

JoDene Moneuse

35 year Longboat Key Resident/Realtor Celebrating 5 years on the Michael Saunders “Best of the Best” list N CTIO STRU N O C NEW

E PRIC NEW

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

2 bdrms/2 bath renovated with a full Bay view 600 Sutton Place | $569,000

ING PEND

has been playing piano for the past three years. Phelan also has perfect pitch.

“This is such a perfect event to get more involved in the community,” said Longboater Nancy Richard. “You pretty much know everyone here, but also it is nice to get your name out there and learn how the businesses can be of service to you.”

Brock Patterson and Julia Piermont

— PETRA RIVERA

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

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

E PRIC NEW Lael Hazan and Carol Staitman

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

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

LOCAL, VETERAN OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1939 LONGBOAT KEY

Seaplace #G3-305.

Beautifully remodeled 2/2.

2045 Gulf of Mexico Dr | $665,000 597 Sutton Place | Sutton Place MLS#A4586008 2/1.5 - 1,008 sf | Deeded Beach Access | $524,900 Dia Wilson (941) 284-3667

E PRIC NEW

SIESTA KEY

LONGBOAT KEY

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

4380 Exeter Drive, #306| Longboat Harbour MLS#A4589316 | 2/2 - 1,168 sf | Great amenities | $574,900 | Sherry Flathman (941) 592.3433

NEW PRICING

NEW PRICING

11,250 sf lot with 3 bdrm/2 bth renovated house. New seawall, docks and 10,000 lb lift 690 Jungle Queen | $1,395,000

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

941.302.4913

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

JoDeneMoneuse@michaelsaunders.com | LongboatKeyLiving.com

Longboat Key Office

416898-1

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

941.383.5577

418394-1

Updated and high and dry! 3 bdrms/2 baths on a nice canal.

550 De Narvaez Dr | $1,650,000

LONGBOAT KEY

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

Between The City And The Sand

29 contemporary luxury residences from 2,200 to over 3,000 square feet, with designer finishes and generous amenities, all set in a coveted location between downtown Sarasota and pristine beaches.

941-210-0987 | OwenGoldenGate.com

Priced from the mid $2 Millions.

418721-1

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

9B

10B

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

These magic moments

S

eaplace Condominium had a snapping good time at its March party.

The Goldtones performed for residents on March 13 at the clubhouse. Coordinator June Hessel called them the “most requested doo-wop group in Florida.”

The Goldtones use their fourpart harmony to transport people back in time as they sing classic doo-wop tunes from the 1950s to the 1980s. These songs include “This Magic Moment,” “In the Still of the Night,” “A Teenager In Love” and “Johnny B. Goode.”

Gary Blomberg, Guy Tann, Jim Bramante and Robert Fleig have been a part of the Goldtones for the past 10 years.

“This brings me back to when I would sing these songs for karaoke on 45s,” said resident Terise Levine.

Photos by Petra Rivera

Dale and Irving Zuckerman

Robin and Alan Zuckerman

— PETRA RIVERA

Jackie Michaelides, Betty Lou Miccio, Nancy Hjort, Peggy Schwass, June Hessel, Peggy Jelinek, Mary Del Pup Guy Tann of the Goldtones

Sandy Endres, Arlene and Jerry Schwartz

Island life begins here.

DIRECT BAY FRONT AVAILABLE $3,325,000

Open Friday 1-4 pm | Open Sunday 12-4 pm

New Listing! Open Sunday, 1 - 4 pm

6485 Gulf of Mexico Drive 3 BR | 3 BR | 2,000 SF A4600758 / $ 3,500,000

7137 Orchid Island Place Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 MLS# A4603278 | $800,000

PENDING

Reduced Price! Open Sunday, 1 - 4 pm

1800 Benjamin Franklin Drive A602 3BR | 3BA | 1,980 SF A4587573 | $2,000,000

793 Jungle Queen Way 4BR | 3 BA | 2,688 SF A4575835 | $1,995,000

Reduced Price! Deeded Boat Slip & Elevator!

Open Sunday, 1 - 4 pm

1918 Harbourside Drive 901 3BR | 2BA | 2,135 SF A4588451 | $1,600,000

2143 Harbourside Drive 1201 3BR | 2BA | 2,224 SF A4592954 | $875,000

3606 Fair Oaks PL | A4555331 4 Bedrooms, Bay Front in Queens Harbour, Longboat Key NEW LISTING DIRECT GULF FRONT $1,750,000

2105 Gulf of Mexico Dr #3403 | A4599416 2/2, New Kitchen w/updates, Gulf Front, Longboat Key PENDING $1,299,900

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

Living and Working on Longboat Key

Julie Klick REALTOR®, MBA 941.780.6001

Broker Associate

416945-1

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

julieklick@ michaelsaunders.com

Beverly St. Hilaire

REALTOR®, GRI, CLHMS 818.416.2505 beverlysthilaire@ michaelsaunders.com

417206-1

Dennis Girard

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

11B

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

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

DISCOVER UNMATCHED BAY AND CITY VISTAS IN THIS EXQUISITE COASTAL RESIDENCE 585 GUNWALE LN. | $6,490,000

• BREATHTAKING CITY & BAY VIEWS • 3BR/4BA • 4,733 SF

• IMPACT WINDOWS • 243 FEET OF OPEN WATER • NEW BOAT MOORING, LIFT & DOCK

• NEW SEAWALL • END LOT • WEATHER-PROTECTED & DEEP SAILBOAT WATER

CONTACT US TODAY FOR YOUR PRIVATE TOUR

417396-1

443F John Ringling Blvd | Sarasota, FL 34236

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

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

Cindy Fischer 2023 Top Performing Agent Exclusive Island Properties

SCAN FOR MORE

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

SCAN FOR MORE

WATERFRONT HIDEAWAY WITH BOAT DOCK, LONGBOAT KEY | $2,250,000

SCAN FOR MORE GLAMOUR SHOT: Ellie sits by the slider basking in the sun and breeze.

COASTAL ELEGANCE AT ITS FINEST! Open House Saturdays & Sundays 1- 4 pm

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

551 BROADWAY ST Longboat Key, FL

Listed for $4,450,000

SCAN FOR MORE

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.

BEACH LOVER’S PARADISE, LONGBOAT KEY | $750,000

GREGG BAYER Broker

SOLD

941.799.9096

gregg@amibeaches.com

seitreporp esitrepxe stluser

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

420335-1

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

YRANIDEXTRAORDINARY ROARTXE

DELAVIRNU LANOITPECXE

UNRIVALED t silaicep S lai tn edis eR defi it reC

e t a i c o s s A - r ek o r B EXCEPTIONAL

941.928.3559

9553.829.149

moc.srednuasleahcim@notluoMle ahciM MichaelMoulton@michaelsaunders.com CE PRI

W NE

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Condo 0 0 0,5on 97the ,3$Bay | 1#101 8183| Sarasota 4 4A | F|SBay 33Front 9,4 2,325sf | 3BR | $3,975,000 | A4582024

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

W NE

941.465.1124

440 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228

Water 0 0 0,Club 599,#105 1$ | |4Longboat 64 8 4 4 4Key A |Gulf FS 0Front 43 , 2 2,585sf | 2BR + Den | $2,750,000 | A4587667

moc.SEITREPORP

daoR bulC taobgnoL 548

65 Lighthouse Key| Waterfront 0 0 0,0Point 57,9Drive 1$ | 5| Longboat 160 4 4 4A FS 0 03,91 4,941sf | 4BR + Den | $8,150,000 | A4593518

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416906-1

SOLD

W NE

419098-1

12B

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

13B

The LOOK you love just got

BETTER PORTABLE SCROLLABLE PANABLE ZOOMABLE CLICKABLE ADJUSTABLE SEARCHABLE AFFORDABLE If you like your newspaper to look like a newspaper, then the Observer print app is for you.

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419259-1

If you have questions about using the app, please contact us at 877-231-8834 or customersupport@yourobserver.com.

Phone 941-556-9100 Mobile 941-737-4169 Email janjordan@atchleyrealty.com

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

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

Jan Jordan Broker

941-737-4169 jansellssarasota.com

416952-1

Associate/Realtor jan@jansellssarasota.com

421066-1

$2,900,000

YOUR CALENDAR

Website www.jansellssarasota.com 14B LONGBOAT OBSERVER |

SUNDAY, MARCH 24

MOONLIT PADDLE-KAYAKING Time varies based on the sunset. At Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway.

Join Mote for an evening paddle to explore Florida’s coastal waters at dusk. Discover the animals that bring Sarasota Bay to life at night while taking a relaxing paddle on the moonlit water. Ages 18 and up only.

Pre-registration is required. Members cost $40.50; nonmembers $45. Register at Mote.org/Events/ Details/Full-Moon-Paddle-KayakingWith-Mote1.

‘THE SECOND MRS. RINGLING’ 3-4:30 p.m. at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. Ellen Brosnahan, lifelong educator and author of “The Second Mrs. Ringling,” will give audience members a behindthe-scenes account of a celebrated couple of the 1930s. Members $20; nonmembers $25. To register call 941-383-8222 or email EdCenter@ LongboatKeyTemple.org.

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

Trust. Value. Faith.

Your Local Longboat Key Realtor

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND FRIDAYS

Direct Longboat Key Bayfront at popular Pelican Harbour 3 full bedrooms—water views on all sides furnished $989,000 | MLS#A4589473

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.

One of 5 Manor Houses at Pelican Harbour-Beachside-2 bedroom custom design-one minute to beach $1,329,000.00 | MLS#A4600824

PENDING

Always a Holiday at Grand Bay Bldg 2, 3 bedroom 3 bath‐2 large balconies, one with Sweeping Bay View— great for indoor/outdoor living Now $1,175,000 | MLS#A4592876

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND SATURDAYS 418778-1

Portobello’s finest-look outside and all you see is blue!

Direct Gulf Front | 2 bed Turnkey Furnished $1,299,000 | MLS#A4597667

440 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key, FL 34228 MichaelNink@michaelsaunders.com michaelnink.michaelsaunders.com 941-914-2805

PENDING

ST. REGIS #408 LONGBOAT KEY $7,995,000

SUNRISE BEACH WALK 8-9:30 a.m. at Ted Sperling Park at South Lido Beach, 2201 Benjamin Franklin Drive. Participate in this selfguided beach walk along Lido Beach.

Register at the playground before the one-mile minimum walk. Fee is $5. For details, call 861-7275.

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.

Courtesy image

Sunrise on Lido Beach

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.

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

Fox Leiter Team Navigating the Sarasota Real Estate Market for Over Four Decades.

SOLD

JUNGLE PLUM ROAD SIESTA KEY $9,300,000

TUESDAY, MARCH 26

TUESDAY, MARCH 26

RECURRING EVENTS

Michael Nink, PA, Broker- Associate, GRI

BEST BET

REDUCED PRICE

Promenade $1,850,000 Fairway Bay $715,000 1211 Gulf of Mexico Drive #408 2000 Harbourside Drive #1503 Longboat Key, FL 34228 Longboat Key, FL 34228 REDUCED PRICE

Players Club $1,300,000 Longboat Harbour 1445 Gulf of Mexico Drive #204 4440 Exeter Drive #104 Longboat Key, FL 34228 Longboat Key, FL 34228

Real Estate Advisors 1575 Main Street Sarasota, FL 34236 941.544.6649 | foxleiterteam@compass.com | foxleiterteam.com

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

CHRISTOPHER WETZIG TEAM Your Longboat Key Real Estate Experts

Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

419172-

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

Fox Leiter Team

ANGELA WETZIG

416932-1

CHRIS WETZIG

$585,000

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

15B

March 21, 2024

North Siesta Key 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 deep water 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

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 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

3500 Bayou Louise Lane | Siesta Key | $11,500,000 $10,750,000 5 bed | 5.5 bath | 6,300 Sq Ft 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 $849,000 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 1930HarboursideDr122.com

Sunset Beach

2109 Gulf of Mexico Dr #1404 | Longboat Key $1,400,000 2 bed, 2 bath | 1,358 Sq Ft | Furnished!

Exquisitely updated two-bedroom corner residence at Sunset Beach showcases turquoise water views and spectacular sunsets. Wood flooring, crown molding, and tasteful appointments accented the bright, open floor plan. The main terrace overlooks the Gulf of Mexico through brand new hurricane impact sliders that were replaced along with the windows in 2021. Home chefs will enjoy creating culinary delights in the open kitchen with stainless steel Samsung appliances replaced in 2020. www.SunsetBeach1404.com

1180 Bogey Lane | Longboat Key | $1,098,000 2 bed + flex room | 2 bath | 2,180 Sq Ft 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

The VUE

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

1155 N Gulfstream Ave #1407 | The VUE | $2,450,000

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

At The Vue - It is all about the Epic forever VIEWS! This fantastic, almost new residence is on the 14th floor with 10-foot ceilings. The home, accessible via a semi-private elevator, has extensive floor-toceiling glass walls offering a 180-degree hypnotizing forever view of Sarasota and her islands, including sunrise – moonrise, and sunsets—It is an excellent split floor plan. The Vue offers a concierge, on-site management, a social room, a swimming pool, and valet parking. It offers a southern exposure in the city's heart, and your pet is welcome. www.Vue1407.com

421352-1

2 bed | 2.5 bath | 1,665 Sq Ft

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 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 $2,950,000

LONGBOAT KEY 6940 Longboat Drive S 3 Beds 2 Baths 2,550 Sq. Ft. Bill Anderson 941-313-4059 A4602353 $2,750,000

LONGBOAT KEY 370 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 432 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 2,900 Sq. Ft. The Walter Group 941-232-2000 A4588006 $2,100,000

LONGBOAT KEY 680 Broadway Street 3 Beds 4 Baths 2,009 Sq. Ft. Cindy Fischer 941-465-1124 A4587392 $1,995,000

LONGBOAT KEY 749 Penfield Street 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,905 Sq. Ft. Tammy Kitt 941-284-7274 N6131408 $1,874,900

LONGBOAT KEY 380 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 525 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,255 Sq. Ft. Linda Driggs 941-374-2920 A4588216 $1,795,000

LONGBOAT KEY 7030 Poinsetta Avenue 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,402 Sq. Ft. Cindy Fischer 941-465-1124 A4587406 $1,750,000

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

LONGBOAT KEY 3010 Grand Bay Boulevard 422 2 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,143 Sq. Ft. Michael Nink, Pa 941-914-2805 A4588579 $1,395,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3040 Grand Bay Boulevard 214 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,369 Sq. Ft. Michael Nink, Pa 941-914-2805 A4592876 $1,299,999

LONGBOAT KEY 3235 Gulf Of Mexico Drive A405 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,260 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy & Gail Wittig 941-961-8850 A4602938 $1,249,000

LONGBOAT KEY 2295 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 115 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,235 Sq. Ft. Michael Nink, Pa 941-914-2805 A4587000 $1,200,000

LONGBOAT KEY 2120 Harbourside Drive 616 3 Beds 2 Baths 2,031 Sq. Ft. Bibi-Ann Allard PA 941-685-0422 A4592661 $1,095,000

LONGBOAT KEY 5265 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 304 3 Beds 3 Baths 1,453 Sq. Ft. Adam Cuffaro 941-812-0791 A4574390 $1,050,000

LONGBOAT KEY 1085 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 302 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,392 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy & Gail Wittig 941-961-8850 A4589636 $925,000

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

LONGBOAT KEY 6960 Poinsetta Avenue 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,461 Sq. Ft. Cindy Fischer 941-465-1124 A4583722 $750,000

LONGBOAT KEY 5260 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 412 3 Beds 3 Baths 1,453 Sq. Ft. Bobbie Banan 941-356-2659 A4587964 $695,000

LONGBOAT KEY 4410 Exeter Drive K203 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,152 Sq. Ft. Joanna Benante & Ann Martin 941-356-7717 A4599420 $679,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3806 Gulf Of Mexico Drive C404 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,514 Sq. Ft. Susan Mondello 941-544-3387 A4596318 $669,000

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 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 552 Ranger Lane 4 Beds 3 Baths 2,430 Sq. Ft. Kathy Callahan 941-900-8088 A4601306 $3,995,000

MANASOTA KEY 7985 Manasota Key Road 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 4,071 Sq. Ft. Rachelle Golden & Peter Salefsky 941-538-8998 A4591935 $3,650,000

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM

421081-1

16B

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS MARCH 4-8

ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR

A

condominium in The Beach Residences tops all transactions in this week’s real estate. Scott Bundrant and Karyn Bundrant sold their Unit 1103 condominium at 1300 Benjamin Franklin Drive to Michael Haney, trustee, of Wayne, Pennsylvania, for $5.55 million. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, threeand-a-half baths and 3,861 square feet of living area. It sold for $3.14 million in 2005.

SEA GATE CLUB

REAL ESTATE

The Beach Residences condo sells for $5.55 million

17B

Courtesy image

Scott Bundrant and Karyn Bundrant sold their Unit 1103 condominium at 1300 Benjamin Franklin Drive to Michael Haney, trustee, of Wayne, Pennsylvania, for $5.55 million.

Chad Thompson, of Atlanta, sold his Unit 2-C condominium at 2425 Gulf of Mexico Drive to 2425 LBK LLC for $1,725,000. Built in 1973, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,470 square feet of living area. It sold for $585,000 in 2013.

BEACHPLACE

Edgar Snyder and Adele Sales sold the Unit 205 condominium at 1055 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Trident 1055 LLC for $1,485,000. Built in 1981, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,503 square feet of living area. It sold for $900,000 in 2017.

FAIRWAY BAY

Peter and Amy Roth, of Sarasota, sold their Unit 538 condominium at 2110 Harbourside Drive to Rafael Fernandez, trustee, of Longboat Key, for $1.4 million. Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,550 square feet of living area. It sold for $755,000 in 2007.

SANDS POINT

Longboat Sands Condo LLC sold the Unit 211 condominium at 100 Sands Point Road to Timothy and Diane Murphy, of Sarasota, for $1.35 million. Built in 1966, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,941 square feet. It sold for $1.1 million in 2021.

WINDING OAKS

Robert Tupper Rezendes and Penelope Ann Rezendes, of Old Saybrook, Connecticut, sold their Unit 53 condominium at 3408 Winding Oaks Drive to Tracy and Cynthia O’Connell, of Geneva, Illinois, for $1,175,000. Built in 1988, it has two bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,039 square feet of living area. It sold for $850,000 in 2021.

Courtesy images by Perry Corneau

SEAPLACE

Timothy and Gina Schmakel, of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, sold their Unit M2-115 condominium at 1945 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Mark and Janitza Diaz, of Farmingdale, New York, for $650,000. Built in 1978, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,076 square feet of living area.

It sold for $415,000 in 2016.

In with the new NOW TAKING CONTRACTS

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

SARASOTA HARBOUR APARTMENTS

Joseph and Kimberly Carder, of Bradenton, sold their Unit 28 condominium at 761 John Ringling Blvd. to Charles and Patricia Erker, of St. Louis, for $525,000. Built in 1963, it has two bedrooms, one-and-a-half baths and 816 square feet of living area. It sold for $495,000 in 2022.

DOWNTOWN SARASOTA SOTA Residences & Hotel | 941.462.3900 | From $1.8M | Visit the Main Street Gallery | thesota.com

TOP BUILDING PERMITS These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of March 8-14 in order of dollar amounts.

DOWNTOWN ST. PETERSBURG 400 Central | 727.209.7848 | From the $900,000s | Call for an appointment | Residences400central.com

MOVE-IN SPRING 2024

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

LONGBOAT KEY

Longboat Key Address

Permit

Applicant

Amount

5757 Gulf Of Mexico Drive

Re-roof

The Shore Condo

$509,390

Association 513 Sloop Lane

Alt/Renovation

Victoria Percopo

$208,426

3420 Fair Oaks Lane

Alt/Renovation

Rhodes-Thayer Trust

$200,000

648 Bayview Drive

Dock/Seawall/Lift

Steven Gold

$171,130

1215 Bogey Lane

Swimming Pool

K and K Longboat LLC

$102,244

Spa 3060 Grand Bay Blvd. #151

Alt/Renovation

Steven Wake

$101,188

2333 Gulf Of Mexico Drive

Alt/Renovation

Gordon White

$90,000

GOLDEN GATE POINT

Alt/Renovation

Roman Lomnyckyj

$84,705

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

513 Sloop Lane

Dock/Seawall/Lift

Victoria Percopo

$80,000

642 Ranger Lane

Windows/Doors

Todd Zimmerman

$75,236

5861 Gulf Of Mexico Drive

Electrical

Longboat Key Property LLC $65,000

#1C2 2525 Gulf Of Mexico Drive

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

#3F

New Construction Dock/Seawall/Lift

573 Cutter Lane 525 Cutter Lane

Vishal And Melissa Soin

$59,898

Family Dynasty

Electrical

Steven Gordon Fraser

Alt/Renovation

Revocable

Electrical

Jennifer M. Fischley

Alt/Renovation

Revocable

$40,000 $40,000

MichaelSaunders.com/New-Homes | 844.591.4333 | Sarasota, Florida Prices as of November 2023

Source: Town of Longboat Key

421093-1

631 Ranger Lane

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

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

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

Live Beautifully ON SAR ASOTA’S LIDO BEACH.

R E SI DE NCE SL I DOK EY.COM

Now Under Construction • From the $6 Millions • 941-888-3131 ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. This project has been filed in the state of Florida and no other state. This is not an offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy the condominium units in states where such offer or solicitation cannot be made. Equal Housing Opportunity. Rosewood Residences Lido Key is owned and being developed, offered and sold by WSR—Lido Beach, LLC (“Developer”). The project is not owned, developed or sold by Rosewood Hotels and Resorts, L.L.C. or any of its affiliates (“Rosewood”). Developer uses the Rosewood marks pursuant to a license agreement with Rosewood, which may be terminated under certain conditions. Rosewood does not assume any responsibility or liability in connection with the condominium. © Copyright 2024. All rights reserved. The Ronto Group®. Rosewood Hotels and Resorts®.

417811-1

18B

YourObserver.com

19B

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

SUNRISE / SUNSET

FRIDAY, MARCH 22

WEATHER

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

FORECAST

Sunrise Sunset

High: 71 Low: 70 Chance of rain: 98%

Thursday, March 21

7:32a

7:42p

Friday, March 22

7:30a

7:42p

Saturday, March 23

7:29a

7:43p

Sunday, March 24

7:28a

7:43p

SATURDAY, MARCH 23

Monday, March 25

7:27a

7:44p

High: 74 Low: 64 Chance of rain: 31%

Tuesday, March 26

7:26a

7:44p

Wednesday, March 27

7:25a

7:45p

MOON PHASES SUNDAY, MARCH 24 High: 72 Low: 61 Chance of rain: 5%

March 25 Full

April 1 Last

April 8 New

April 15 First

TIDES Highs Lows

Gary Wise took this photo overlooking Longboat Pass.

Thursday, March 21

12:34p

10:57p

6:04a

5:39p

Friday, March 22

12:39p

11:43p

6:33a

6:19p

Saturday, March 23

—

12:43p

6:57a

6:54p

Sunday, March 24

12:23a

12:47p

7:16a

7:27p

Monday, March 25

1:01a

12:54p

7:32a

7:59p

Tuesday, March 26

1:39a

1:05p

7:46a

8:33p

Wednesday, March 27

2:18a

1:22p

7:59a

9:10p

Submit your photos at YourObserver.com/contests. All submissions will be entered for the 2024-25. Weather and Nature photo contest. In February 2025, 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

The Grounded Feeling Everyone will Enjoy

celebrity cipher

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52 Lunch time, often

throws ... dazzling!”

53 Footnote abbr.

124 Be level ... or not on

57 Ungainly boats

the level

60 Dots on a bus route

125 Cooked up

61 Rest area rig

126 Fur-ry family?

63 “Blah, blah, blah”

127 Flock’s contribution

64 Shake ___ (fast casual

128 Menu connecting words restaurant) 129 Pub supply

66 True self, to Carl Jung

130 “Told you I could do it!”

69 Eldest Stark brother

131 Ketch kin

70 Like many Peruvian

DOWN

1 Songbird’s roost 6 Hawkins of dance fame 11 This stinks!

15 Gain alternative 18 Hilo howdy 19 GI’s chore 20 Prefix for “billionth” 21 Palindromic kitchen brand 22 *”Please excuse me

30 Gives, expecting a return 56 Bar in the bathroom

90 *”Hey, linemen, do your

32 Most ventilated

58 Moore of “Rough Night”

jobs!”

34 DVD player’s predeces-

59 Course of action? (Abbr.) 95 Janelle of

sor

62 Apt 3/14 desserts

“Hidden Figures”

37 Dart

65 Doomed craft in “Jaws”

96 “Wanted” poster letters

38 *”They expect me to stay 67 Gelled

97 Seaweed wrap

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68 *”What if I throw the

98 Squeezes (out)

guys ... Let’s fake ‘em out

pass sideways instead of

99 *”You’re hiking the ball

and I’ll run instead!”

forward?”

all wrong!”

43 Disney goldfish

72 Banks and bands offer

104 Gain alternative

45 Seaweed’s little sis in

them (Abbr.)

106 Points a finger at, for

“Hairspray”

75 “___ estas?”

short

while I knock you down for a 47 Opening for “fix” or “fab” 76 Read over quickly 48 La Scala offering 77 Awkwardly formal proper sack!”

24 Unrestrained ability to act 26 Face saver?

27 TP consideration 28 Kondo purchases 29 Canadian gas brand

107 Like many an old den 108 Take a breath

49 *”Watch him ... He’ll grab 81 Molokai memorabilia

111 Like Maleficent

your jersey. Every. Single.

83 Name on a soda can

114 Huge amount

Time.”

85 Loops in on an email

115 Racket

53 Gift-giving phrase

87 Hermann on the slopes

116 Deadlocked

54 Elite octet

88 Makes things

119 Drought-vulnerable

55 Cruise ship hot spot

better

southwestern reservoir

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GRXXY PNICBNE

“WC ZUSZVU YWY ASP VSTU SAU

1 Campaign-funding grp.

72 Chunks in chowder

MASPXUF, W FUMVVE YSA’P JUU BXMP

2 “Boola Boola” chanters

73 Rum, to some

3 Wander about

74 City for whom a color

OJU PXUFU BSOVY RU WA XMTWAI MAE

4 “Calm down!”

was named

5 Fair share?

78 “Rikki-___-Tavi”

6 Sunscreen letters

79 Caught some morays

7 Accomplished

80 Big wedding expense

8 Michelin alternative

82 “Ridiculously Flavorful”

9 ___-bitsy

drink

10 Cyclops feature

84 Pointed a finger at

11 Killing it

86 Snooty sorts

12 “Oh, crud!”

89 ___ vu

13 “Almost ready!”

91 Gave the green light

14 Sushi bar eggs

92 Food drive donation

15 Enemies

93 Unexpected visitors

16 Graph line

94 Working on the bath-

17 U2’s lead singer

room floor

19 High-pitched wailing

100 Steam open

23 Call a radio show, maybe 101 Ten-year period 25 Wrapped again, as a 102 Some picnic spots twisted ankle

103 Melancholy, in Madrid

28 “Sons of Anarchy”

105 Pub choices

characters

109 Journalist David

31 Fitbit stat

110 Amazon’s milieu

32 Part of a plot

111 “Shot Clock” singer Mai

33 Go for groceries

112 Colorado resort

34 TV-monitoring device

113 DIY furniture company

35 Garlic unit

115 Bit of salt

36 Museum artifact

117 Iggy Pop’s “Break ___

39 Make a choice

Your Heart”

40 Bogota babies

118 Alexa device

41 Tide target

120 Sport for Jon Jones

42 Absorb a loss

(Abbr.)

44 Receiver Beckham Jr.

121 Vanna’s co-host

46 Rocker Frank

122 Anger

50 Fashionable Mizrahi

123 “For sure!”

51 Flipper’s choice

JZFWAI.”

TWHPSF XOIS

“N INAV TEVBNW ... WJ YXX FZ WVYTPVEO YLB YXX FZ TPJEVJIEYKPVEO, RDW YXOJ WJ FZOVXM MJE XNOWVLNLI WJ WPVF.”

TPNWY ENAVEY Puzzle Three Clue: D equals U

ACROSS

71 Candied, as fruits

“CI’A YKI NPLNVA XNAV IK MK IEX DCFEI

Puzzle Two Clue: R equals B

©2023 Universal Uclick

artifacts

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

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

Puzzle One Clue: O equals K

crossword

417953-1

at MANASOTA FLOORING INC

© 2023 NEA, Inc.

sudoku

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

©2023 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

3-21-24

Made for where you live. Here!

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals

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

LONGBOAT KEY Portobello Seasonal Rental.

Service Directory - Friday at 3PM • PAYMENT: Cash, Check or Credit Card The Longboat Observer reserves the right to classify and edit copy, or to reject or cancel an advertisement at any time. Corrections after first insertion only. *All ads are subject to the approval of the Publisher. *It is the responsibility of the party placing any ad for publication in the Longboat Observer to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance with towncodes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property.

Notice: All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

Available Now! Beautifully renovated condo, 2BR/2BA. 1,260 sq.ft. Pool, tennis court, private beach. 1 month min.

No pets. $7,000 - April and/or May (2024) $5,000 June-Dec (2024) Call 908-692-4756 LONGBOAT KEY: Beachfront Condos, 1st or 2nd floor, 2BR/2BA, W/D in units, free Wi-Fi, heated pool, & parking.

Call 941-383-3338.

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

Discrete/ Confidential. Call David 813-439-2694 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

Pets ISLAND PET CARE Longboat resident, background checked/profile on Rover. Daily walks or overnights.

Call/txt 804-366-7650

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

941-955-4888 YourObserver.com/RedPages

auto 2008 SMART SILVER CONVERTIBLE 46k miles. Very good. All options +add-ons/ upgrades, service records. Make offers. $6,000 OBO (215) 327-2849

BUY & SELL HERE! YourObserver.com/RedPages

Autos Wanted CASH FOR YOUR CAR We come to you!

Ho Ho Buys cars.

941-270-4400.

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

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

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

Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

Between Houses or Condos Reservations 941-383-5577 wagnerlbkrentals@gmail.com

LUXURIOUS CONDO on Anna Maria Island For Rent - Upgraded granite/stainless kitchen.

Incredible water views through floor length windows. Waterfront patio, luxury furnishings, 2BD/2BR, king beds. Pool, tennis, walk to the beach. Private carport.

Monthly rental May - Nov. Owner/renter. Flexible terms.

570-239-0431 marketreps@aol.com

Advertise your business or service in the Observer

5360 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Suite

RED PAGES

101 Longboat Key, FL 34228

Advertise your business or service in the Observer

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

LONGBOAT KEY This special lot borders on the 32-acre DURANTE PARK nature preserve and includes DEEDED ACCESS to GULF BEACH and SARASOTA BAY. $1,200,000.

Susan Christy, REALTOR (941) 504-0350 https://561gulfbayroadlbk.com

Ask about our special rates!

Wagner Realty Since 1939 www.rentalsonlongboat.com

EPIC HOME CARE Personal Care-Respite Care Alzheimer’s Care Light Cleaning Med Administration Meal Prep Shopping, Errands & More Call for a FREE Evaluation!

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

SELL YOUR STUFF HERE!

Rentals Wanted BAY ISLES RENTAL WANTED Seeking rental of condo or townhouse in Bay Isles.

Ideally a 6 to12 month lease for retired gent, non-smoker.

Call 619-347-1888 or email EL18@live.com

OUR ONLINE TOOLS MAKE IT EASY TO PLACE YOUR AD

Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals 3BR/2.5BA BAY ISLES Golf Course Villa. Private pool/hot tub, garage. Quiet, bright & well equipped unit. Flexible 2024/5 dates. References. By owner.

(303) 861-8777

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

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

Cleaning CLEANING SERVICE Total Home Service Cleaning, residential, vacation rentals, commercial, power washing and windows. We are family owned, we have been in business for 25 years. Very professional & detailed.

(941) 744-7983 Ths.cleaning

RED PAGES 941-955-4888 Advertise your business or service in the Observer

CALL TODAY Painting RED PAGES 941-955-4888 CARLO DATTILO Painting CALL TODAY Licensed & insured.

Interior/ Exterior painting including 941-955-4888 drywall repair and retexturing.

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

Honest & reliable.

Free estimates. 941-744-1020.

35+ years experience.

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

Residential & Commercial.

Fully Insured.

CALL or TEXT Don 941-900-9398

Professional Services

Use the

RED PAGES Visit the RED PAGES YourObserver.com/RedPages

$7,500/month (including taxes) Call 214-986-2287

TREASURES FOUND HERE!

CALL TODAY

M-F

LONGBOAT KEY Bayside Condo with Gulf View Available January-March 2025 3 month minimum 2 bedroom/2 bath Portobello 4th Floor Spectacular views

Condos/Apts. for Rent

Adult Care Services

to clean out your garage

CALL 941-955-4888

This week’s Crossword answers

UBA PRESSURE WASHING AND SEALER (941) 320-6172 www.ubapressurewashing.com

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “It’s not always easy to do the right thing. But, doing the right thing makes you strong, it builds character.”

Queen Latifah Puzzle Two Solution: “If people did not love one another, I really don’t see what use there would be in having any spring.”

Victor Hugo Puzzle Three Solution: “I give credit ... to all my teachers and all my choreographers, but also to myself for listening to them.”

Chita Rivera

This week’s Sudoku answers

©2024 Universal Uclick

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

©2024 NEA, Inc.

Merchandise Wanted

Autos for Sale

Beachfront, Bayfront and In

Visa/MC

You’re only cheating yourself.

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

SEASONAL RATES

Land for Sale

peekers’ place

Items Under $200

WEEKLY MONTHLY

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. $499,000 (770) 335-9211

real estate

stuff

Condos/Apts. for Sale

Paint the town RED! Paint the town RED! Paint the town RED!

INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888

home services

RED PAGES

YourObserver.com

21B

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

Handyman

Painting

KEENS HANDYMAN SERVICES

SARASOTA INTERIOR PAINTING, LLC

KEENS HANDYMAN SERVICES

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.

High End Interior & Exterior Painting Services

Health

FULLY INSURED • OWNER OPERATED

GET YOUR LIFE BACK!

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

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

Do You Have Neck or Low Back Pain?

Do You Want To Avoid Surgery?

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

Roofing

Give Us a Call - We Can Help

Kenneth Fuhlman Inc.

FREE CONSULTATION 941.358.2224

William J. Leininger, JD

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

420654

Board Certified in the specialty of non-surgical spinal decompression

DR. DAVID CIFRA, DC

941-626-3194

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

SELL YOUR CAR!

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

Transportation

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.com

FAST • EASY • SAFE

BLACK LABEL CAR SERVICE

Luxury for Less

421251

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

WE COME TO YOU

941-248-4734

Home Services

5-Star Rated

420655

420659

Cleaning and Landscaping

HoHoBuysCars.com

Handyman Services Home Watch Storm Preparation & Other Services

Caregiver/Companion

10% off

coquinaservices@gmail.com

Insurance 421249

MIC INSURANCE

421250

Furniture Sales & Repairs Cushions • Slings • Re-powdercoating

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

YourObserver.com/RedPages

SPECIAL 00 5

$

senior citizen discount. www.sunsetwindowcleaningsrq.com

PURIFIED WATER WINDOW CLEANING AVAIL ABLE!!

Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES 941- 284 - 5880

RIGHT

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

ON TARGET

Landscaping & Lawn

OBSERVER RED PAGES

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

CALL 941-302-3933

421222

FREE PICKUP / DELIVERY • FREE ONSITE QUOTES

421253

Patio Furniture Repairs.com

NEED HELP?

INCLUDING SCREENS, TR ACKS, MIRRORS & FANS

Home • Condo • Auto • Umbrella • Boat • Flood

Furniture Repair

941-504-0903

EXPERIENCE KNOWLEDGE SOLUTIONS

150

25 $

STANDARD WINDOWS

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

420656

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

1/1

Formerly known as Sunrise Windows UP TO

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

“FIX IT - DON’T REPLACE”

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

Res. | Com. | Lic. | Ins.

RED PAGES Bring Results | 941-955-4888

Sliding Glass Door Repair

Windows

421252

941-920-7065

Doors

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

Serving Longboat Key Since 2005

Licensed, Bonded, and Insured

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

chrome_qrcode_1671726737617.png

410036

Auto Service

941.270.4400

Building & Roofing Contractor

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

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

421220

TEXT OR CALL 574-354-7772

421640

INTERIOR RENOVATIONS & ANYTHING FROM THE GROUND UP

420658

Divorce without Lawyers

420660

Attorney

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

Insurance

SECUR-ALL INSURANCE AGENCY 510 BAY ISLES ROAD, SUITE 1 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL (Next to SUNTRUST BANK)

CHUBB, AIG, UNIVERSAL, UNITED, SAFECO, PROGRESSIVE, VAULT, FLOOD, WE HAVE YOU COVERED!

420657

Sandra Smith | 941.383.3388

22B

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

Leading the market in 2024!

TWO AMAZING OPPORTUNITIES IN GRAND BAY

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

Career Sales Volume

GRAND BAY II | $2,295,000

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

Top 100 Agents RealTrends — All Florida

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

54 Years

4BR/4BA | 3,037 SQ FT | 3-CAR GARAGE Custom Modern Masterpiece | 2022 Rebuild | Exquisite Outdoor Entertaining w/New Pool & Spa and Rooftop Lounge | Furnishings Available | Ready for Immediate Occupancy | All New Hurricane Impact Windows & Sliders | Full-Home Backup Generator

Combined Real Estate Experience

NEW LISTING

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

THE ACKERMAN GROUP

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

GRAND BAY I | $1,995,000

3060 GRAND BAY BLVD., #112 | 3BR/2BA | 2,250 SQ FT FAIRWAY BAYCompletely Updated | 1st Floor Residence | Large Bayfront Terrace LONGBOAT KEY $829,000 | NW Corner Residence | Pet-Friendly 1922 HARBOURSIDE DR.,Fully #1101 Furnished | 2BR/2BA TOWNHOME

941.387.1820

Updated Kitchen & Baths | Finished A/C Bonus & Recreational Area | Private 2-Car Garage Wood Floors | Fireplace | Resort-Style Amenities Private Beach Club Membership

G

CE

W NE

I PR

W NE

CHEROKEE PARK

L

$5,695,000 QUEENS HARBOUR

1655 SOUTH DR. | 5BR/5 FULL BA & 4.5 HALF BA | 6,355 SQ FT Luxury Estate Home | 2,000 Bottle Wine Room | Whole-Home Generator

CHEROKEE PARK WEST OF TRAIL

$975,000

$5,985,000

1655 SOUTH DRIVE 5BR/5 FULL BA & 4.5 HALF BA | 6,355 SQ FT Luxury Estate Home | 2,000 Bottle Wine Room | Private Casita | Whole-Home Generator |Rear 3-Car Garage | Gourmet Cooks Kitchen | Resort Style Pool 15 FT Above Flood Impact Windows & Sliders

3080 GRAND BAY BLVD., #533 | 2BR/2BA | 1,329 SQ FT 2 Large Private Terraces | Rarely Available Capri Floor Plan | Floor-to-Ceiling Windows & Sliders 2 Garage Parking Spaces | Pet Friendly | Sunrise & Sunset Views

$4,900,000 THE PROMENADE

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

$2,795,000

3584 FAIR OAKS LN. | 3BR+STUDY/3.5BA | 2,959 SQ FT 2-Car Garage | Direct Protected Sailboat Water - Can Accommodate a Large Vessel up to 55 FT | New Roof

GRAND BAY V - LONGBOAT KEY

WATER CLUB I

IN IST

$1,995,000 CONDO ON THE BAY TOWER II

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

$1,349,000

988 BLVD OF THE ARTS #816 | 2BR/2BA | 1,555 SQ FT Incredible Bay, Bridge & Sunset Views Screened-In Tiled Waterfront Balcony | Custom Updates | Pet-Friendly Community

G

W NE GRAND BAY I - LONGBOAT KEY

L

$2,249,000

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

LAWRENCE POINTE

IN IST

GRAND BAY II - LONGBOAT KEY

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

$1,975,000 THE LAKES ESTATES

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

$2,375,000

$899,000 FAIRWAY BAY

1755 OAK LAKES DR. | 3BR + ST/2 BA | 2,583 SQ FT 2-Car Garage | Largest Lakefront Lot in the Community | Fully Renovated and Move-In Ready | New Roof

$799,000

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

G

EW

IN IST

L

N PIERRE - LONGBOAT KEY

$4,750,000

THE SEA BREEZE - SIESTA KEY

$2,900,000

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 $1,799,000 THE SEA BREEZE $2,900,000 Views of the Gulf, Bay, Downtown, Siesta Key & John Ringling $1,645,000 BAYSO SARASOTA 360 NORTH RD. | 3BR/3.5BA | 2,913 SQ FT 301 QUAY COMMONS #903 | 2BR+Study/3 Full BA | 1,828 SQ FT 9008 MIDNIGHT PASS RD., #5 | 3BR/3.5BA | 3,700 SQ FT Bridge I On-site POINT Mgt, Guest Suites, Fitness & More

Brand New Construction | High Ceilings | Gourmet Kitchen w/ 9th Floor Location | Split Floor Plan | Positioned to Capture Optimal Private 2-Car Garage and Roof Top Terrace | Full-Floor ST. ARMANDS • 443| 2JOHN RINGLING BLVD., STE.,Spaces F | SARASOTA, FL 34236 Penthouse | 10 FT Ceilings Center Island | 2-Car Detached Garage with EV OFFICE ChargerLOCATIONViews Side-By-Side Prime Parking

PENDING

$4,450,000 ROYAL ST. ANDREW $1,899,900 TANGERINE BAY CLUB $1,090,000 SABAL COVE

2151 GULF OF MEXICO DR. #5 | 3BR/3BA | 3,400 SQ FT | Outstanding Sunset Views | Gourmet Kitchen

555 S. GULFSTREAM AVE. #901/901A | 370 GULF OF MEXICO DR. #416 | 3BR/2.5BA | 2,305 SQ FT | 9th Floor 1 & 3BR/3.5BA | 2,476 SQ FT | All New 1/2 Combined Residences Hurricane Impact Doors and Windows

$2,695,000 PIERRE

$4,750,000

3330 SABAL COVE LN. | 4BR + DEN / 4 455 LONGBOAT CLUB RD, PH #4 | FULL & 2 HALF BA | Wide Lake Views 5BR/4.5BA + OFFICE | 1,100 SQ FT of High Ceilings | Open Kitchen | New Roof TERRACE | 17 FT Ceilings

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

415559-1

EN PROVENCE