Longboat Observer 7.11.24

LONGBOAT

Observer

Longboat Key’s weekly newspaper since 1978

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

Tile style PAGE 18 FREE • THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

VOLUME 46, NO. 47

YOUR TOWN

Urgent infrastructure upgrade There’s no time to waste on critical utility projects, says town manager. SEE PAGE 4

Petra Rivera

Nancy and Glen Hjort

CLOWN ABOUT TOWN

American fun

Seaplace Condominiums was decked out in red, white and blue for the Fourth of July.

Residents celebrated the holiday with good old American fun at the Seaplace July 4 party. Sixty guests attended the event, made up of residents and their loved ones.

The event planning committee decorated the clubhouse with American flags to get everyone in the spirit. They love working together in creative ways to bring their themed parties to life.

Guests ate hot dogs and red, white and blue desserts. Some people brought dishes to share with everyone as they mingled.

Seaplace finished off its Fourth of July holiday by watching fireworks on the beach.

Courtesy image

Lorenzo Condensa plays for the crowd at Sips.

Sips got talent?

Longboat community members came together through music on Saturday, July 6. Patrons enjoyed live music and special food options at Sips Coffee & Gelato.

Lorenzo Condensa, part of the family owned coffee shop, performed live music for a short time.

Condensa played the keys and sang classics like “Take Me Home, Country Roads” and “Hotel California.”

He has played piano for 15 years and also writes original music, which he said is an important outlet for him to escape, create and inspire.

Condensa and the owners said they hope to continue trying small live music events throughout the summer and working with the town to ensure the live music events comply with sound ordinances.

Photo by Petra Rivera

Chucko the Clown, Kim Verreault and Nancy Rozance

This year’s Freedom Fest delivered old-fashioned laughs. SEE PAGE 16

Fullstack service Physical collections remain important, but Sarasota County libraries have evolved into community hubs.

SEE PAGE 3

Turtle tracks LONGBOAT June 30-July 6 2024 Nests 125 False crawls 200

2023 95 141

Totals since April 21 2024 2023 Nests 1,064 847 False crawls 1,552 1,129 Source: Mote Marine Laboratory

Carter Weinhofer

More than 2.3 million items were borrowed from Sarasota County libraries’ collections in fiscal year 2023.

A+E

On point in London PAGE 12

2

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

Longboat sets maximum millage for fiscal year 2025 CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

L

ongboat Key town commissioners voted on June 28 to set the maximum millage for the upcoming fiscal year 2025, which will remain similar to the previous fiscal year.

So far in the budget process, commissioners participated in two workshops that outlined the town’s expected capital and operating expenditures, as well as revenues.

One of the primary sources of revenue for the town is property tax revenue, which is influenced by the millage rate set by the town.

Town Manager Howard Tipton began the presentation on June 28 by explaining that, after the commission approves a maximum millage, it can’t be increased without notifying the public.

Prior to the June 28 meeting, the town’s Finance Department was using estimated property values to shape the FY25 budget. Then the department received the certified values from the county property appraisers, which showed an increase.

The June 1 estimates showed a combined increase of 9.61% between Sarasota and Manatee counties.

Individually, there was expected to be a 7.78% increase in Sarasota County values and a 13.67% increase

“Any time you have double digits is a good year, so we’re very happy about that.”

— Sandi Henley, budget manager

­ anatee County values. This in M would have resulted in an additional $1,481,016 in revenue compared to FY24.

The July 1 certified values showed a greater increase. Those numbers showed an increase of 10.39% combined between the counties — an 8.55% increase in Sarasota County and 14.47% increase in Manatee County.

“Any time you have double digits is a good year,” Budget Manager Sandi Henley said. “So we’re very happy about that.”

The certified values will result in $1,580,544 in additional revenue compared to FY24, and an extra $99,528 that the town hadn’t accounted for when estimating the values.

For the upcoming fiscal year, staff recommended setting the maximum millage at 1.9600. The same millage was assessed in the previous fiscal year. The rate can be decreased at the next hearing in September, but not increased.

Other millage rates for facilities and beach projects add to the overall millage for property owners. Both of those rates go toward debt payments on revenue bonds.

The beach millage decreased slightly from FY24 to FY25. For Gulfside residents, the millage went down from 0.6672 to 0.6071. For Bayside residents, the change was 0.1668 to 1.1518. The town is anticipating a FY25 beach debt service payment of $3,577,750, according to Henley’s report.

That, along with a 0.0401 millage for general obligation debt, brings the total millage to 2.6072 for Gulfside residents and 2.1519 for Bayside residents.

District 1 Commissioner Gary Coffin voiced his opinion on the millage, which was on the side of increasing the town’s millage rate to help pay for things like additional staff positions that were requested by department heads.

Two fire rescue personnel, three new police officers, a geographic

Operating Millage

General Obligation Debt Service

Beach Bond

FY2025 Total Millage

Gulfside

1.9600

0.0401

0.6071

2.6072

Bayside

1.9600

0.0401

0.1518

2.1519

“All we’re trying to do is make things better. How do we improve our parks, how do we build training facilities, how do we add staff if we don’t increase our millage rate to do that?”

— Gary Coffin, District 1 commissioner

information system analyst and a town engineer were among the fulltime positions requested by department heads. Tipton’s FY25 budget included the recommendation for a town engineer and to elevate a part-time position with the Tennis Department to a full-time position.

“It seems like money is never enough to do what we need to do,” Coffin said. “In order to provide the community that I think we want to provide, I think we should look at raising millage rates as opposed to keeping them the same.”

From his observations, Coffin said not many residents show up to challenge the millage rate, and raising it slightly would allow the town to take on some of the full-time positions, as well as move forward with projects like park improvements.

“All we’re trying to do is make things better. How do we improve our parks, how do we build training facilities, how do we add staff if we don’t increase our millage rate to do that?” Coffin said.

To include all the requested full-time positions, an additional $975,815 would be needed. While Tipton put forward the hypothetical, he was clear that he did not recommend that all the positions were necessary.

Coffin suggested raising the millage to 1.990. For example, for a homesteaded property valued at $1 million, that would be an increase of $144.44 annually.

Commissioner-At-Large BJ Bishop said that taxpayers are financially strained by other sources, like insurance rates, and that imposing a higher tax would be another burden.

“But the bottom line, for me, is, we have a town manager and directors who work diligently on setting and establishing what they believe is a responsible budget to bring to us,” Bishop said. “If there was something they felt strongly about, they would have put it in this budget, and they didn’t. From the standpoint that I look to the town manager to set the goals and set up a budget that is reasonable and responsive to the needs, not the wants, but the needs of this community, I think that’s what we have in front of us.”

Coffin assured that he wasn’t questioning the ability of the staff to craft the budget and was just raising the discussion to get more things done around the town. Other commissioners seemed more in favor of keeping the millage static, and the maximum millage of 1.9600 passed 5-0.

427499-1

Certified property values will bring in additional revenue for the new fiscal year.

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

Director of Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources Renee Di Pilato speaks at a community input session for the Longboat Key location.

“I think that really solidifies the library’s role as a community anchor and a hub where everyone can visit and feel welcome.”

— Renee Di Pilato, director of Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources

MORE THAN BOOKS

With a branch headed to LBK, Sarasota County staff highlight the ways in which libraries have evolved to offer a full suite of services.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

L

ongboat Key’s public library, operated by Sarasota County, won’t open its doors until late 2026. By then, there might be even more advances to the library system.

The project will bring the first county-operated public library to Longboat Key and expand Sarasota County’s library system, which currently has 10 libraries. Though books and historical resources continue to be a staple of modern libraries, the 21st century has brought with it advances in how libraries operate.

“I think it’s really evident that libraries used to be much more focused on books; that’s our bread and butter, and we love books and reading,” said Director of Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources Renee Di Pilato. “I recognize the importance of literacy over the course of a lifetime … but libraries have become much more than book depositories and warehouses.”

Di Pilato has been involved in libraries for about 20 years and has witnessed the shift firsthand. While people may first visit a library to check out a book, Di Pilato said users might find themselves staying for something different, like attending an author talk or using a sewing machine in the Creation Station.

“We really are a community hub where someone can come throughout their lifetime,” Di Pilato said.

“And when you look at all the services we provide, you can really see, from infancy to becoming a retiree, how the library has different uses depending on where you are in your life,” Di Pilato said.

In fiscal year 2023, there were 1.3 million visitors throughout the Sarasota County library system. There were also 2.3 million items borrowed from the collection and about 2 million wireless sessions (people logging onto Wi-Fi), according to Di Pilato.

On top of that, there were about 1,500 people who took advantage of the county’s one-on-one technology training. While that number doesn’t seem that big on the surface, Di Pilato said that number reflects a lot of time for the county employees.

It’s also a program she said continues to grow.

Di Pilato also said that the digitization of family photos and videos is a newer service that is becoming increasingly popular.

cal collection.

Inside, there is plenty of space for guests to sit down and utilize free Wi-Fi, meet up with neighbors for games and, of course, read.

At the Selby Public Library, an aquarium archway guides children to the designated children’s area. Next to that is the teen area. Books, movies and internet access are all tailored to the age groups in each of the areas.

As for programs, teens often enjoy things like Lego Club and Anime Club, and the Writing Boot Camp can be fun for everyone, said Marketing Coordinator Merab-Michal Favorite. Author talks in Selby’s auditorium are also a popular attraction, according to Favorite.

Upstairs are things like the genealogy research center, music archive and the Creation Station. The Creation Station is utilized in all of Sarasota County libraries in some way, Di Pilato said.

At Selby, there’s a dedicated room with sewing machines, 3D printers, glowforges for wood burning and more. At other locations, these machines may be used on an ondemand basis.

When guests get back home, the use of a library card follows. Users can use the smartphone app to download electronic books, audiobooks and movies.

“We’re so conditioned to see libraries as a place for books,” Favorite said. “Most people don’t realize all the services we provide.”

WHAT’S NEXT FOR LONGBOAT KEY’S LIBRARY?

File images

Emilia Kalev reads to Olive, a pug, during the Read with the Dogs program at Gulf Gate Library.

Other services, like library websites, remote access catalogs and ebooks, have become central to the community’s library experiences,” a DPLA virtual history exhibition stated.

The way library spaces are used has also evolved. What used to be silent reading spaces are now more collaborative spaces like meeting rooms, genealogy research centers and Sarasota County’s Creation Stations, which allow patrons to use things like sewing machines and 3D printers.

This shift began in the early 2010s, as libraries welcomed modern-style “makerspaces,” according to American Libraries Magazine. Librarians now foster these types of creative spaces, host workshops and sometimes offer one-on-one technology training.

Di Pilato said programming and multiuse capabilities reinforce a library’s role as a community builder.

“What’s interesting about libraries, public libraries in particular, is they are places where everyone is

welcome,” Di Pilato said. “It really is the crossroads for people.”

The meeting rooms of many of Sarasota County’s public libraries are used for homeowners associations, nonprofit organizations, business groups and more, according to Di Pilato.

Aside from that, Di Pilato also sees libraries as a way for community members to get to know their neighbors while utilizing resources or attending events.

“I think that really solidifies the library’s role as a community anchor and a hub where everyone can visit and feel welcome,” Di Pilato said.

MODERN EVOLUTION: SELBY PUBLIC LIBRARY

Before entering the doors of the Selby Public Library in Downtown Sarasota, guests notice the curbside pickup sign. Upon entering, there are several self-checkout devices where people can check out books on their own using the digital library card — two newer ways to utilize the physi-

Fundraising.

The Longboat Key Foundation will be in charge of raising $3.5 million for an enhanced version of the library.

Sarasota County will contribute the $11.1 million estimated construction cost and operate the building.

But if residents want the enhanced version — a larger meeting room and outdoor terrace — the foundation will need to find donors before the end of August. The enhanced meeting room will cost about $2 million, and the terrace will be $1.5 million.

Naming rights are also on the table if a donor is willing to contribute a minimum of 25% of the total project cost of $14.6 million.

After the fundraising period, the county will be able to finalize designs and get started on shaping the programming.

Di Pilato said each library in the Sarasota County library system tailors its programming around the community. For example, she said the Betty G. Johnson North Sarasota Library has a younger demographic, so the library has a dedicated afterschool program.

“We’re really hoping our fundraising will be successful and we’ll be able to offer the enhanced library,” Di Pilato said.

Until then, ideas for the Longboat Key branch are preliminary, but Di Pilato said people can expect all the core library spaces, including a collections space, community gathering space and a children’s nook.

BIGGER PICTURE

According to the Digital Public Library of America, libraries have embraced technology since the start, and the technological changes in recent years changed how libraries connect with users.

“A crucial part of contemporary library services is access to the Internet, as well as free use of computer equipment. Public libraries also often subscribe to online research databases, which patrons can use.

Creation Stations in Sarasota county libraries give patrons the opportunity to use 3D printers, sewing machines and more.

Heather Tweed shows off the 3D printer in the Selby Library’s Creation Station.

3

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

Loving

Infrastructure upgrade: Waiting is not an option

Husband, Father & Friend

Due to rising project costs, two necessary utility projects come with a price tag of almost $40 million.

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LONGBOAT

ongboat Key’s subaqueous force main replacement and Country Club Shores’ asbestos cement pipe replacement projects can’t wait any longer.

At a June 28 meeting, Longboat Key town commissioners reviewed the projects and directed staff toward a financing method for the projects that require up front costs with a multimillion-dollar price tag.

As a result, the town will incur a $27 million debt.

“You have to start from the perspective of we have to do this; this is not optional,” Town Manager Howard Tipton said to frame the discussion.

The primary driver of the financial need comes from the subaqueous force main project, currently estimated to cost $31.4 million for the remainder of the project, which is a replacement of the pipeline under Sarasota Bay. This is due to a 2020 fracture and leak of the existing pipe.

Another factor in the debt is the Country Club Shores asbestos cement pipe replacement project, which has a total cost of close to $9 million.

Tipton added figuring out the cheapest option comes down to how the loan is financed, not necessarily about finding the cost savings in parts and labor. For financing, the town had three main options.

The first — and commissioners’ preferred — option is through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund Loan Program. The interest rate for the SRF loan would be around 2.89% with a 20-year term and annual payments of $1.9 million. After interest,

Courtesy image

A section of sewer main pipe lies on its side at the town of Longboat Key's Public Works Department. The June 2020 breach was in the bottom invert of the pipe.

the total cost to the town would be $37.6 million.

Though this loan option has the lowest interest and overall cost, the difficulty comes with the fact that a referendum would be required. Referendums are required for certain types of loans that would cause the town to incur debt.

This means registered voters in Longboat Key would decide if the town can take this route.

The referendum most likely would take place in the March 2025 election cycle and would require public education efforts in the months leading up to the referendum, according to town officials.

The other two options are either 30-year or 20-year revenue bonds.

These are bonds that are repaid from revenue generated by the project they fund.

For the 30-year option, the estimated interest would be 5.51% with an annual payment of $1.9 million.

The total cost to the town would be $58.5 million, an additional $20.9 million compared to the SRF option.

The 20-year option would come with an interest rate of 5% with an annual payment of $2.2 million and a total cost of around $45.9 million — an additional $8.3 million compared to the SRF loan.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

REPAYMENT WITH UTILITY RATES

For any of the options, the town would make payments with collections from utility rates.

Commissioners were provided with an updated utility rate survey at the June 28 meeting by Bryan Mantz from GovRates Inc. The last rate study was conducted in 2021, and commissioners approved annual increases of 5% through 2026.

The need for rate adjustments is driven by the two major capital projects. The subaqueous force main project rose in cost by about 30%, about $6.5 million, since the last rate study. The Country Club Shores asbestos cement pipe replacement project’s cost increased by about 18%, or $1.2 million, since 2021.

The total cost of capital needs for town utilities through fiscal year 2034 is estimated at $68.9 million.

On top of that, fiscal year 2025 operating costs are projected to be 14.4% higher than they were in 2021 due to inflation and nationwide issues with filling positions and retaining employees.

None of these increases includes Manatee County’s annual increases, which are also factored into resident utility bills.

Mantz presented two different utility plan options depending on which loan option the town chose.

For the SRF loan option, adjustments would be 8% through 2027, 7% in 2028 and 3% in 2029.

If the town went with the revenue bond option, increases would be 9% through 2027, then 3.5% through 2029.

A new rate study would also be conducted by GovRates in three years to reevaluate the town’s utility rates.

Even with the increases, Mantz said the rates would be considered affordable compared to surrounding areas. For example, the average utility bill after the SRF loan increase in 2024 would be $174.44. The average for other Florida utilities is around $192.58, according to data presented

by Mantz.

Rate increases would also allow for the town to have more cash reserves for any unanticipated expenses along the way, Mantz said.

Commissioners agreed the SRF loan approach was the most favorable. If the referendum fails, the revenue bond options are still on

the table. A unanimous vote among commissioners solidified the direction staff will take with that approach and begin finalizing the utility rate increase scheduled to be brought back in the fall.

Manatee County Southwest Water Reclamation Facility

5

Point of connection

BIG-TICKET PROJECTS

The town’s subaqueous force main project will replace the existing pipeline under Sarasota Bay. A fracture in the mainland portion of the pipe caused a spill in 2020.

In 2021, following the spill, the town entered into a consent order with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection that put into place certain restoration and mitigation requirements, including planting mangroves.

The town completed a slip-line rehabilitation of the two-mile mainland portion of the force main in May 2023, which cost about $2.72 million.

Next is the more costly part of the project, which will install a new subaqueous pipe about 50 feet away from the existing one to decrease the chance of an accidental fracture during construction.

Staff proposed $31.4 million in FY25 for final design, easement acquisition and construction, which is slated to begin in fall 2025, said Director of Public Works Isaac Brownman.

“As I mentioned at one of the prior budget workshops, it is significantly higher than our original estimates from about three to four years ago,” Brownman said.

Some of that is due to changes from the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain issues and inflation, he added.

The town was already granted two state appropriations in the amounts of $1.25 million and $800,000, and Brownman said staff will continue pursuing grants and earmarks to drive the cost down.

As for the Country Club Shores project, the neighborhood’s asbestos cement pipes — installed in the late 1960s and early ’70s — are being replaced with new polyvinyl chloride pipes. Asbestos cement pipes are not common practice anymore, and by replacing the mains in Country Club Shores, Brownman said about 90% of the outdated lines in all of Longboat Key will be replaced.

The asbestos cement water mains have aged beyond useful life and are

The red line running from the Key to the orange dot represents the town-owned wastewater pipeline.

Lift Station D

Project Phases 1 and 2

Phase 3 Phase 4

Country Club Shores IV and V will be the first of the neighborhoods to get their water main replaced.

Sources: Carollo 2020, ESA 2020, Google Earth

very fragile, which is the main reason they need to be replaced, according to Brownman.

The projects split the Country Club Shores subdivisions into four phases. Phases 1 and 2 cover Country Club Shores 4 and 5, while Phases 3 and 4 span Country Club Shores 1, 2 and 3.

The first two project phases were the most critical areas, Brownman said, due to having the most breakages and the need for better interconnectivity.

Phases 1 and 2 require about 15,000 linear feet of asbestos cement pipe to be replaced, as well as new meter boxes, fire hydrants and a full mill

and asphalt overlay after the underground portion is completed.

The contractor for the project, Spectrum Underground, Inc., quoted the project at $5.5 million and was given the notice to proceed in October 2023. There were about 200 days left on the contract as of June 28, which means another six or seven months, according to Brownman.

Survey work for the next part of the project — Phases 3 and 4 — has already been completed. These phases will be less intrusive in that the contractor will use a method called pipe-bursting, according to Brownman.

The method bores new pipes into

the old ones, which shatter as new pipes are fed through them. This is not only less disruptive but also more cost-efficient, Brownman said.

Due to the layout and complexity of the first project phases, Brownman said this was not an option for those subdivisions.

The project is on target to go out for bid after the FY25 budget adoption on Oct. 1, and the estimated construction cost is currently $3 million to $3.5 million.

Construction could start in early 2025, unless the project team wanted to time the project to start after peak season in 2025, according to Brownman.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

SOAKED SANCTUARY After June flooding, Save Our ­Seabirds receives grant for drainage improvements on campus.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

M

any area residents were surprised at the magnitude of flooding from a recent midJune storm — including some of the feathery residents at Save Our Seabirds.

Save Our Seabirds’ campus on Ken Thompson Parkway was not safe from the flooding impacts that came from that storm, and Executive Director Brian Walton said flooding has been a long-standing issue for the campus.

But a newly acquired grant from the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program will go toward Walton’s long-term plans to improve the campus’ drainage.

The storm on June 11 brought about nine inches of rainfall in some parts of Sarasota. Downtown Sarasota and St. Armands Circle experienced much of the impact, as did Save Our Seabirds.

When staff returned to SOS on June 12, they found the flooding so severe that several birds had to be evacuated from their enclosures.

In SOS’ latest newsletter, Walton said Senior Tech Jonathan Hande found himself in near-hip-deep water to evacuate the birds and get them inside for safety.

“It was the most extensive flooding we’ve had, even including all the hurricanes that this staff has experienced,” Walton said.

No birds were harmed during the flooding or evacuation, Walton said.

Flooding isn’t unusual for SOS, Walton said. There have been other times in less severe storms where he noticed water collecting in some areas. He suspects that it has to do with the layout of the campus.

The storm on June 11 illustrated for Walton that when there is that much water, the campus’ existing drainage system has difficulty pumping out

NEW AVIARIES The five new aviaries on the way for SOS will be another step toward Walton’s long-term vision for the campus.

Each of the new aviaries will cost about $30,000, he said.

The campus’ older aviaries are mainly made from wood and wire fencing material. Newer installments will be made from aluminum and a more flexible wire rope mesh that is commonly seen in zoos.

water. One positive from the situation, he said, was that the storm shed light on how important the issue is to address.

Recently, SOS received a $10,000 grant as a part of SBEP’s regular grant cycle. The grant will go toward SOS’ large-scale project to reconstruct the underground drainage system.

Though the $10,000 won’t cover the entire project, Walton said it will provide a good start, first by installing the new drainage system in five new aviaries that are soon to be built.

After that, the remaining funds will be used to construct the skeleton of the larger system.

Each aviary has its own drain, according to Walton. Some have become problematic over the years and clog often, he said.

Walton said flooding wasn’t the main problem addressed in the grant and drainage system project, but the project will help.

The main issue, instead, was clean water and ensuring that the campus doesn’t add to the pollution of the bay.

Staff at SOS scrub each aviary daily, and the used water is then deposited into the aviary’s drain. Additionally, Walton said the birds’ ponds or water features are protected with a chemical that prevents a microbial film from building. Though the chemical is very watered-down, Walton said he wants to ensure the campus has zero impact on the bay.

Courtesy images

“We want to be better stewards than that,” Walton said.

From the perspective of clean water, the project was attractive for the SBEP’s grant. The new system will hopefully be able to filter out anything harmful, with improved drainage as a potential benefit.

“I think long-term, it’s a good thing for everybody,” Walton said.

This upcoming drainage improvement project will be a model for a campuswide drainage system and set the foundation for a larger vision.

Walton mentioned that DSDG Architects is working with SOS on a master plan for the campus, a long-term plan that will reimagine the entire location.

Included in that plan is a new hospital, which Walton hopes will give his veterinary staff more space and equipment they need. Additional improvements will be made to aviaries and staff facilities.

The master plan project is still in its early phases, Walton said.

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OPINION / OUR VIEW

LONGBOAT

Observer recommends T

he common refrain and complaint you here about all county commission candidates is this: “The greedy developers control them.”

The proof? Their campaign contributors. Look at the accompanying table below for the four Republican Sarasota County Commission candidates.

But before we elaborate on that, let’s first be clear: It’s wrong to label developers greedy. They do what every business does. They fill an essential need. They provide homes, apartments, condominiums and townhomes for the thousands of people moving to Florida.

And let’s get even more micro: You. A developer built the structure where you reside. And you paid the price because you thought it was a fair deal. You didn’t have to buy that residence. That was your choice.

Why does that make the developer evil or greedy?

What’s more, consider this: Compare the annual net profit margins of the following companies — the first three being national homebuilders: Lennar: 11.58%, D.R. Horton, 13.3% and Pulte: 16.5% compared to Alphabet: 26%, Apple: 26.3%, Meta: 32% and Microsoft: 36%.

Now, tell us: Who’s greedy?

One more consideration: When Sarasotans decry developers for their campaign contributions to politicians and the politicians for accepting developer contributions, put that in context. Indeed, if you own, have owned or work for a business, put yourself in the shoes of the developer or homebuilder.

Your livelihood, everything you have — plus the business that supports the lives of all your employees’ families; and the business that builds homes for hundreds or thousands of people — is largely dependent on politicians. They rule what you can and cannot do. They make the rules that affect the cost of what you do.

So for all who decry developers, think how you would like your livelihood to be in the hands of elected officials who think you’re greedy and evil. How do you think that would work out?

It should be expected, then, that homebuilders and developers would support the elections of candidates and politicians who are inclined to support the economic arguments for development and homebuilding.

We have argued this for three decades: Florida is a growth state with 350,000 new people a year moving here — all of whom need places to live.

And yet, as the rising prices of housing reflect, we are not building enough residences to accommodate this growth. That’s why we need elected officials who understand this and who are willing to stand up to the immoral forces who oppose development. Yes, immoral.

When Sarasota County Commission candidates say we need to “manage growth,” beware. What they actually are saying is it’s OK for you to have your homes, but they believe they have the power to decide who else has the right to live or build here.

Which brings us to the Republican candidates on the Aug. 20 primary ballot for Sarasota County Commission:

Sarasota County Commission

Commission Districts — Only voters in the districts with contested elections are permitted to vote.

District 1: From University Parkway south to State Road 72; roughly east of McIntosh Road to the county line.

ELECTION ’24 SARASOTA COUNTY COMMISSION; PUBLIC HOSPITAL BOARD; CHARTER REVIEW BOARD

Full-length Editorial

For the complete recommendations, including Sarasota County Commission District 3 and Sarasota County Charter Review Board commentary, go to: YourObserver.com/opinion.

Also see: “Republicans killing their own; Go negative to win” at YourObserver.com/ opinion

Candidates: Republicans Alexandra Coe and Teresa Mast Coe and Mast are competing to replace term-limited Mike Moran.

Give them credit and gratitude. It takes courage and perseverance to pursue public office.

It also takes humility — the ability to remember to be a servant of the people and to resist an addiction to power, traits rarely seen in politicians. As a longtime Tallahassee wag once told an aspiring legislator, there are only two reasons people seek public office: to be somebody or to do good. If you are motivated by the first, don’t run.

In Coe and Mast, at least in their written comments, they want to do good. The question, then, is which of them would be better for you, for individual taxpayers? Not better for the collective or the county government; better for every individual’s liberty and property.

They are both longtime Sarasota County residents — Coe, 30 years; Mast, 45 years. Both have sought public office before. Coe, 60, was elected in 2020 and 2022 to the Charter Review Board; was a 2018 candidate for the County Commission; and has been active for many years in the Sarasota Republican Party. Mast, 58, ran for school board in 2016; served after that on the Sarasota County Planning Commission.

They’re both engaged citizens.

To judge them on previous experiences that would translate to the job of county commissioner, Mast is decidedly more qualified. In addition to developing an understanding of county codes and having voted on land-use issues as a planning commission member, Mast has been vice president and president of the Davin Group Inc., a custom residential design and remodeling business, for 32 years; and for 10 years served as Sarasota County’s business relations coordinator. She has seen county government work first hand.

Coe, meanwhile, describes herself as “an experienced cultural sustainability practitioner, creative social innovator, farmer, statesman and an anthropologist with a strong commitment to addressing global challenges through sustainable agriculture policy and environmental stewardship.” (For more on her eclectic passions and skills, go to: Linkedin.com/In/CoeAlexandra/).

Suffice it to say there is a gap between Mast and Coe in business and government experience.

If Coe has any edge over Mast, it would be as the commission’s unpredictable, nonestablishment member. She has no ties to the region’s development and construction circles and could be an independent voice among four other members of similar political philosophies. It’s often good to have at least one voice on a board willing to challenge the prevailing views.

Fiscally, Coe and Mast talk the

talk.

Coe: “Government should not overly burden our labor or our land with excessive taxes. Instead, it should strive to be efficient, transparent and focused on serving the needs of its citizens without infringing on their financial freedoms.”

Mast: “We need leadership that consistently prioritizes the interests of taxpayers and scrutinizes how every dollar is spent. I advocate for maintaining the lowest possible taxes while delivering the highest quality of life for all residents.”

In Mast, voters have a candidate who understands what it takes to operate and manage a business and the burdens government creates when it intervenes where it should not. But because of her heavy support from developers and contractors — as well as her husband’s role as CEO of the Suncoast Builders Association, Mast has the challenge of being able to make decisions independent of their influence.

Mast did not respond to the Observer for comment on how she can assure voters of that.

For our tastes, while Mast and Coe profess fiscal conservatism, they also are strong advocates for the county government to intervene with aggressive growth management and controlling where development occurs. This will satisfy the voters who think Sarasota’s growth is out of control.

But whoever is sitting in the five commission chairs, they must keep in mind their primary job is to keep Sarasotans safe; keep taxes at a minimum; create a framework for businesses to thrive and economic growth; and that all government regulation on development and people’s property rights will make Sarasota increasingly unaffordable for our children and grandchildren.

Overall, Mast has the better experience and qualifications, but she must apply those skills with each vote to what is best for individual taxpayers.

We recommend: Teresa Mast

Sarasota County Public Hospital Board Three items Sarasota County voters should hold in their minds for the primary and general elections to fill the seats for the Sarasota County Public Hospital Board: 1. The Sarasota Memorial Healthcare System is a huge, complicated business enterprise.

2. The COVID crisis is over. Get over it. Move on.

3. The SMH System is one of the best-managed in the country, certainly among the best in Florida.

When you consider $1.6 ­billion goes through the accounting department of SMH each year; the system has more than $1.3 billion worth of structures and highly sophisticated equipment; that it treated more than 1.6 million people in 2023; and that it has more than 570 physicians and 10,000 employees, all of that requires board members with diverse skills, high intelligence and the ability to sort and meld details with 30,000-footlevel strategic thinking.

Board members cannot be oneissue agitators. Ask board members Patricia Maraia and Bridgette Fiorucci, two RNs who were elected to the board as part of an antiadministration, Medical Freedom slate in 2022. They will tell you the responsibilities of hospital board members go far beyond a platform of “medical freedom,” “patient autonomy,” “transparency” and “accountability” — four pillars of this year’s slate of four Medical Freedom candidates.

All from a raucous wing of Republicans in south Sarasota

COUNTY COMMISSION CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS Contributions through July 3 for the Republican primary candidates for Sarasota County Commission.

District 1 Alexandra Coe Teresa Mast District 3 Tom Knight Neil Rainford

Total $

Totals # Contributions

Real Estate/Developer Related Total $ # Contributions % of Total

$30,411 $237,407

157 407

$0 $127,950

0 169

0% 53.8%

$222,815 $272,839

557 446

$46,740 $165,750

65 191

20.9% 60.7%

Source: Sarasota County supervisor of elections

County, spearheaded by retired Army Gen. Michael Flynn, the four candidates are seemingly obsessed with and stuck in the COVID past.

They want to re-litigate and harp on what happened with patient treatment during COVID. To wit: Asked what are the top three priorities SMH needs to address, candidate Dr. Tamzin Rosenwasser replied the first priority is: “Tracing what went wrong during COVID, not just at SMH, but all over our nation, for all of us to understand and correct it.”

Challenger Tanya Parus says she “champions medical freedom and patient autonomy, advocating for informed healthcare decisions without coercion.”

Mary Flynn O’Neill, Gen. Flynn’s sister, says she “is committed to transparency and accountability of all operations … ” (and) “pledges to advocate for the protection of all patients and … true medical freedom.”

Good for their earnestness. They mean well. And of the four, Dr. Rosenwasser has the experience and credentials to be an effective board member. But first they all need to get over what happened in 2020 and 2021 during COVID. With 100% probability, you can go to every hospital in America and find it did things it now wishes it did not do during COVID. It was a chaotic, uncharted period — as if bombs were being dropped every day on the American medical system. Every hospital made mistakes.

What’s more, what public hospital anywhere at the time would dare risk being a complete outlier in the medical establishment and go against federal health care officials’ protocols and guidelines? Most likely: none.

To be sure, the SMH board and administration did their best. And they learned from COVID, affirming that by making a commitment recently to patients having the right to decide their treatments. No coercion.

Done. Over. Move on.

Which brings us to our final points: The litmus test for every election is how well the incumbents have performed. In that vein, the SMH System is an exceptional organization. All the data show it.

That is a reflection of the hospital board’s oversight. The incumbents are doing an admirable job, and it and the administration have great, positive momentum — expanding SMH’s Venice hospital and on the verge of building a hospital in North Port. There is no need to change, no need for disruption.

As for the two open seats — Atlarge Seats 2 and 3 — when you put the skill sets and experiences of Kevin Cooper and Pam Beitlich up against those of Medical Freedom candidates, Dr. Stephen Guffanti and Ms. Flynn O’Neill, Cooper and Beitlich would add better and even more depth and breadth of useful knowledge to the board.

Lastly, the Medical Freedom side has said there are too many business people on the board and that it needs more medical people focused on patient care. To that: Every successful business person knows, above all, if his or her business is to succeed, the satisfaction of its customers is always the business’ highest priority. They get it.

We recommend: Sharon Wetzler DePeters (incumbent), Sarah Lodge (incumbent), Kevin Cooper and Pam Beitlich

Sarasota County Charter Review Board Sarasota County’s Charter Review Board is charged primarily with serving as a conduit between citizens who want to change the county’s governing constitution and the voters.

Historically, most members elected to this board appropriately have adopted a Hippocratic Oath toward the charter: “Do no harm.”

That is the correct approach.

In that vein, there are three candidates who would maintain that approach.

We recommend: Nicholas Altier, Tom DeSane and Greg “Tex” Bukowski.

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

Friedrich Hayek

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

SERVICE INTERRUPTION 12:41 p.m., 700 block of Emerald Harbor Drive Officer Public Service: A resident called the police to report that she had recently returned after being away for a couple of months and now had no running water. The officer determined that the handyman turned off the water, and the water was able to be turned back on.

NO VESSELS ALLOWED 3:15 p.m., Beer Can Island Vehicle Stop: A marine patrol officer observed two individuals together, but with separate pontoon vessels, in the vessel exclusion zone at Beer Can Island. Upon approaching the boaters, the two told the officer they entered the zone to seek shelter from a storm.

But the story didn’t quite check out; a number of people were enjoying the beach in front of the vessels, according to the officer’s report. The two were given citations for violation of the exclusion zone.

ESCORT TO SAFETY 4:05 p.m. Jewfish Key Officer Public Service: While on marine patrol, an officer noticed a disabled vehicle west of Jewfish Key and approached the vehicle. The officer was able to help the crew get the vessel into safe waters, but when one of the individuals said she was not feeling well, the officer transported her and two others to a local restaurant. Others remained at the boat to wait for a commercial tow.

MONDAY, JULY 1

ATTEMPT TO FLEE 7:44 p.m., 100 block of North Shore Road Suspicious Vehicle: An officer on

FRIDAY, JUNE 28

SISTER KEYS FIGHT CLUB 10:50 a.m., Sister Keys Disturbance: An anonymous caller reported that two citizens planned to fight at the Sister Keys sandbar over the weekend. A day after the tip came in, an officer located one of the potential fighters on his vessel and asked him about his involvement in the situation. The man said he and the other person had been involved in verbal altercations about vessel speeds. He also claimed the two had not seen each other in a few days, and he was not planning on fighting him at Sister Keys. The officer called the other man involved, who said he had been avoiding the other man and would not engage in a physical altercation. A Bradenton Beach Police officer was also notified of the report.

Pre-storm sandbag operations continue Residents who want to be even more prepared for storm season are invited to the town’s pre-storm sandbag operations this summer.

Though the July 1 date has passed, the town still has two more scheduled for Aug. 1 and Sept. 3.

The operations will take place at the Broadway Beach Access point from 9 a.m. to noon.

According to the latest Town Manager Brief, there will be two selffilling sandbag stations for residents to fill up their sandbags. The operations are to help property owners address potential flooding issues ahead of time.

Each household is allowed 10 sandbags and must provide proof of residency, such as a driver’s license or utility bill.

Town communications outreach ramps up Amid hurricane season, the town manager’s office is increasing outreach efforts to get residents to sign up for the town’s e-notification system.

The system provides important updates directly to residents’ cellphones as soon as the updates are published on the town’s website.

The notifications are especially important for storms, evacuation, traffic lane closures and major utility service disruptions.

As a part of the town’s outreach efforts, the communications team developed business cards with a QR code that goes to the registration site. The cards were distributed to local businesses around the island.

Residents can also go to the town’s website at LongboatKey.org and click the “E-Notification” button at the top of the page.

patrol saw a motorcycle parked in front of a handicapped parking sign.

The officer investigated, did not see any handicap sign on the motorcycle, found that the license plate number was expired and then wrote a citation for the handicap parking violation.

After that, the officer continued routine patrol down to Broadway Street and then returned to North Shore Road, where the officer saw a man on the motorcycle attempting to leave. When the motorcyclist saw the patrol car, the man attempted to put the motorcycle in gear, revved the motor and tried to flee. The officer quickly exited his vehicle and stopped the motorcyclist. The motorcyclist said he just purchased the vehicle and had not yet registered it.

After searching the motorcyclist's name in a database, the officer found that the man did not have a driver’s license. The man had to make arrangements for the motorcycle to be removed, and the officer warned him that operating without a license is a criminal offense.

Complete Streets study underway on Anna Maria Island The Florida Department of Transportation is conducting a Project Development and Environment Study for potential improvements to the corridor from State Road 789 from

north of the Longboat Pass Bridge to State Road 64, and Gulf Drive from State Road 64 to White Avenue.

The project length is about six miles total and will evaluate multimodal alternatives for the corridors in Anna Maria Island, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach. Aspects like pedestrian safety, bicyclist safety and quality of life will be considered in the study.

“Minimizing environmental impacts while enhancing the future transportation network consistent with the community’s vision and character is also a project goal,” an FDOT release stated.

This PD&E will not include Longboat Key. Looking forward though, Longboat Key is eyeing a similar project with its Gulf of Mexico Drive Complete Street Corridor Project.

The project was listed as a priority for the town and the Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization, which set aside $18.3 million for the project in its long-range planning from 2025 to 2045.

NEWS BRIEFS

JUST A DREAM 1:59 a.m., 3500 block of Mistletoe Lane Suspicious Incident: Dispatch advised an officer to a report of a suspicious incident. At the scene, the officer spoke with the caller who said she had a vivid dream and thought there was an intruder in her house.

The caller and a family member stated they checked the house before the officer arrived and no signs of forced entry were reported or observed.

COPS CORNER

SATURDAY, JUNE 29

9

Bradenton Beach sewer improvements near completion About one mile of Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach — from Sixth Street South to 13th Street South — was recently repaved as the Bradenton Beach Sewer Improvements project nears completion.

The $7.1 million project, which began in January 2023, includes about a mile of 10-inch and eight-inch gravity main installation along Gulf Drive South and 21 manholes.

The replacement addressed the aging sewer infrastructure and will improve the resiliency of the system, according to the project’s website.

The latest project update on June 21 stated that the new rectangular rapid flashing beacon crosswalks are expected to be activated in late July 2024. The next steps will include work on the side streets and restoring the parking area on the west side.

Completion of the project was slated for fall 2024, according to the project website.

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Emergency allies

TRIBUTES James Michael “Mike” LaPensee 1945-2024

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

I “He was notorious for striking up conversations with strangers wherever he went, always leaving them a friend.” ing on his hobbies: model airplanes, boats, and cars were his favorite. Mike was a loving husband, father and friend and he will be greatly missed.

He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Kenneth LaPensee and Wilfred “Sonny” LaPensee; and son, Gregory LaPensee.

He is survived by his wife, J. Karen LaPensee; son, Michael J. LaPensee, daughters, Michele Crouthamel (Jereme) and Shawn Shields (Logan); daughter-in-law, Carlee LaPensee; sister-in-law, Nancy LaPensee; brother, Richard LaPensee (Carol); and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held 4:30-7:30PM, Sunday, July 14, 2024, at The Key Royale Club, located at 700 Key Royale Dr. Holmes Beach, FL 34217. Those who knew him are encouraged to drop in, have a rum and coke and share some memories. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel is overseeing the arrangements. In lieu of flowers the family is asking that donations be made to The Center of Anna Maria Island or The Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island. Condolences may be made to www. brownandsonsfuneral.com.

SERVICE: Sunday, July 14, 4:30-7:30 PM Key Royale Club 700 Key Royale Dr Holmes Beach, FL 34217 DONATIONS: In lieu of flowers please contributions to The Center of Anna Maria Island or the Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island 428257-1

James Michael “Mike” LaPensee, a long-time resident of Anna Maria, passed away June 22, 2024, at the age of 79. Mike was born April 10, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, to parents Wilfred and Edith (Glasgow) LaPensee. Here he spent his early childhood before moving to Wayne, Michigan. He attended St. Mary’s Catholic School and then Wayne High School where he graduated in 1963. In 1967, he made the move to Florida and settled on Anna Maria Island. In December of 1976 he met the love of his life, Karen, and married her 90 days later in March 1977. Mike was a plumber by trade, becoming a Master Plumber, and was well-known around the business community for founding LaPensee Plumbing, Inc alongside Karen which they began in 1985. He was an active member of our community, whether that was coaching his children’s youth sports teams at the Center in their younger years, attending various events and fundraisers around the island or volunteering with The Rotary Club of Anna Maria of which he was a member. He was notorious for striking up conversations with strangers wherever he went, always leaving them a friend. He was immensely proud of his family and was always bragging about them to friends and strangers alike. He loved trains, old cars, and work-

Longboat Key seeks interlocal agreement to share planning staff in times of need.

n an emergency, a little help from neighbors is a good thing to have.

The town’s Planning, Zoning and Building Department hopes to enter into an interlocal agreement with neighboring jurisdictions to share certain staff members when necessary, which could be used in emergencies or if the department is unexpectedly left short-handed.

Per the agreement, Longboat Key’s department could call on building officials and plans examiners from the cities of North Port, Venice and Sarasota, and the counties of Sarasota and Charlotte.

The most recent revision of the interlocal agreement was in 2014.

At that time, the town was invited to participate but turned down the offer, according to Parsons. Town staff recently reviewed the agreement and saw the value.

The memo drafted by Director of Planning, Zoning and Building Allen Parsons for the commission’s June 28 meeting said this would help tap into a broader pool of staff to assist in times of need.

If a hurricane were to hit Longboat Key, this agreement could be utilized to bring in extra building officials and plans examiners from the participating jurisdictions. On the other hand, if another jurisdiction suffered an emergency and needed assistance, Longboat Key could send a staff member to help out.

Either way, the jurisdiction that receives the extra hand would be responsible for any costs.

But Longboat Key’s is also a small department compared to most others in the area.

Parsons said if there was a staff shortage for some reason, the agree-

File image

ment could also be utilized then.

“We’re a small department,” Parsons said. “If our building official is out in an unplanned way and we have difficulty getting someone from a private provider to do the work for us, it would be a real benefit to us to be able to see if there’s availability with one of the other jurisdictions to kind of cover for the limited staffing that we have if somebody critical is out.”

The staff memo also stated that qualified personnel for these positions are in demand, and there are more positions to fill than available employees. That’s partly because of “demanding licensing requirements” and years of necessary experience, according to the memo.

Last year, the town’s Planning, Zoning and Building Department faced difficulties due to staff shortages and frequently had to hire thirdparty contractors to assist. Since then, Parsons said the department was able to hire a plans examiner/ building inspector, which has alleviated the issue.

According to the memo on the June 28 consent agenda, Town Manager Howard Tipton had already reached out to the managers and administrators of the participating municipalities and received support.

The June 28 consent agenda was unanimously approved, and the next step for the interlocal agreement will be to receive approval from the other participating municipalities.

Projects such as the St. Regis would likely need multiple inspections from the town Planning, Zoning and Building Department throughout the course of construction.

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11

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

American medley C hrist Church of Longboat Key finished the holiday weekend with a patriotic service on July 7.

Instead of its usual Sunday service, the Rev. Julia Piermont picked 13 American hymns for the church’s first “festival of the hymns.”

Congregants complimented Piermont on the unique music program.

“This is the first time we have ever done something like this,” said Christ Church member Bill Wartinbee. “Last week, we had 60 attendees, and today we had 90.

I can for sure tell you it is all Julia. She is one of the youngest pastors we have had, so I really think that is why she is always looking for new ideas and ways to engage us. She is really making us look good.”

Music Director Robert Romanski and his step-daughter, Alexa Lowrey, led the church through the hymns. The music team also had organist Chris Westfall, trumpet player Brad Turner and flute player David Tagliarini.

Throughout the service, Piermont explained the history of each hymn and how it could be used in worship and to honor America. She used four songs that sounded uniquely American, five samples of American poetry and two songs that show a trend that is both old and new.

The hymn lineup included “Medley of Patriotism,” “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands,” “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee,” “America the Beautiful” and “Amazing Grace.”

With a degree in music, Piermont encourages musical worship as a form

Photos by Petra Rivera

David Tagliarini

Russa Fecteau and his girlfriend, Estefani Gillum, and Carmen Altman and her fiancé Zack Altman

Bayfront sparkles

R

uth Weisberg said there was no better celebration to be found than the Fourth of July fireworks show on the bayfront in Sarasota.

That might seem like high praise, but attendees found the Bayfront Fireworks Spectacular that night offered an experience worthy of the name.

“It was awesome. It was spectacular. It was nice to be here in the park and see so many people enjoy it,” said Bello Nock. “It was great to see all of Sarasota just having a great time.”

A staple of Fourth of July events in Sarasota for more than 10 years, the show, hosted by Suncoast Charities for Children as part of its Suncoast Summer Fest, draws huge crowds to Bayfront Park each year.

Zack Altman, who attended with his fiancée, Carmen Altman, was among the newcomers this year.

“It was amazing,” said Altman, who recently came to Sarasota from Wisconsin. “It was cool to be in a different environment and watch the fireworks with my fiancée.”

Joyce Wartinbee and Lynn Baron

of prayer for Christ Church congregants.

Partnering with Romanski and the music team, she hopes that everyone will take hymns home and continue to meditate on them as they grow in their faith.

— PETRA RIVERA

Robert Romanski, Alexa Lowrey, Julia Piermont and Chris Westfall

Photos by Ian Swaby

Alexandra Osipyan, 11, celebrates the Fourth of July with a sparkler.

Jane Donovan and Ruth Weisberg

The crowd enjoys the fireworks.

– IAN SWABY

CORRECTION

In the June 27 editorial, “Moran, tax collectors in a Supreme Court fight,” the Florida PACE Funding Agency (FPFA) was incorrectly referenced throughout. There are multiple PACE agencies in Florida not connected to the Florida PACE Funding Agency, or FPFA.

WORSHIP

Please join us for worship in person on Sunday at 10 a.m. or online at our website and Facebook Live Stream at 10 a.m.

An Ecumenical Church that Welcomes all People Founded in 1956

directory

427331-1

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

Follow us on Facebook • www.longboatislandchapel.org Lord’s Warehouse Summer Hours: M-W-SAT 9 am to 12 pm

St. Mary, Star of the Sea,

All are welcome at All Angels no exceptions

Catholic Church

Would like to Welcome & Invite You, Your Family Members & Friends to Celebrate Mass with Our Parish Community MASS SCHEDULE Saturday: 4:00 PM Sunday: 8:30 AM, and 10:30 AM Daily Mass at 9:00 AM; Rosary at 8:30 AM Monday - Friday 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive Chaplet of Divine Mercy daily following Mass.

Worship Service Sunday 10 a.m.

427215-1

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

Worship With Us at Our Church Men’s Bible Study: Monday @ 9:00 Women’s Bible Study: Wednesday @ 10:00

427238-1

Visitors & Residents Welcome

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

Rev. Robert Dziedziak, Pastor

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

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

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

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

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

427402-1

Growing in Jesus’ Name

427389-1

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

JULY 11, 2024

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

To London with love Sarasota Ballet wins hearts with its Royal Opera House residency.

MONICA ROMAN GAGNIER

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

nte was “Da n io t la e cers The rev s 22 dan d n e s h ge in ,” whic tiny sta Sonata e h t s s o acr ibited flooding ce uninh n o t a t en ral. movem sculptu ly h ig h n and uardia

years More than 35 th after his dea ton’s some of Ash ore ballets are m ever popular than those and some of asily that might e rgotten have been fo t alive are being kep in Sarasota.

G —The

Tuesday’s strong ly danced triple bill began with Ashton’s sw oony, wistful ta ke on Ravel’s “Valses nobles et sentim en tales,” which premiere d in 1947. Saras ota’s welldrilled couples inhabit Sophie Fe dorovich’s debs-and-dance cards setting w it h smiling conviction, led

by Jessica Assef swivelling undecidedly be tween two rom antic possibilities (a cheeky nod to “S leeping Beauty”). — Fina ncial Ti

ck —Bachtra

mes

Ricardo Graziano and Macarena Giminez performed “The Walk to Paradise Garden” on the main stage of the Royal Opera House in London.

A

ll hail the Sarasota Ballet.

They came, they saw, they conquered. The glowing reviews of their June 4-9 London residency at London’s Royal Opera House provide the proof.

Among their fans and benefactors in Florida, there seemed little doubt that the Sarasota Ballet would be a hit in London.

After all, the company, which has made its reputation preserving the ballets of Sir Frederick Ashton, has gone from strength to strength since Iain Webb became managing director in 2007 and was joined by his wife, Margaret Barbieri, in 2012, as assistant director.

Earlier in their careers, Webb and Barbieri danced the principal roles in Ashton ballets at the Royal Ballet, where Ashton was choreographer under Ninette de Valois and later director of the company when Valois retired.

The Sarasota Ballet flew to London and performed in “Ashton Celebrated” at the invitation of Royal Ballet Director Kevin O’Hare, but the residency was fraught with peril, to hear Webb tell it.

“It was like bringing coals to Newcastle,” said Webb, a native of Yorkshire, in the north of England.

“Even though it was a great honor, there was the fact that we’ve been known for doing Sir Fred’s ballets — it’s what put the company on the map. But you’re basically taking his ballets, which are very special, back to his home theater,” Webb noted in an July 3 interview.

“There’s long been a perception that the Royal can’t dance Balanchine and the Americans can’t dance Ashton. We were going up against that by bringing in rarely seen works with new dancers,” he adds.

Before the residency, Webb couldn’t stop thinking about how the National Ballet of Canada met with disaster when it performed Ashton’s “La fille mal gardée” at the Royal Opera House in 1979. Recalls Webb: “I was there and everything possible

Images courtesy of Foteini Christofilopoulou

The Sarasota Ballet won favor with London critics with such productions as Sir Frederick Ashton's "Dante Sonata," part of the program of "Ashton Celebrated" at the Royal Opera House.

went wrong. It was as if it had been sabotaged.”

“It was daunting because there had been so much hype beforehand,” says Barbieri about the Sarasota Ballet’s London showcase. “Tickets sold out almost immediately and the expectations were so high.”

It was Barbieri who staged the Ashton ballets the company performed in London. The repertoire included the ensemble-driven “Dante Sonata” (staged with Patricia Tierney), the showcase of choreographic satires “Facade,” the abstract “Sinfonietta,” the waltzing “Valses nobles et sentimentales” (with Webb) and Ashton’s self-parody “Varii Capricci,” as well as several divertissements, smaller pieces that are ballet’s answer to a chef’s amuse bouche.

Ashton’s considerable legacy and the storied reputations of the Royal Ballet dancers weighed on the Sarasota Ballet’s performers. “The Royal

Ballet is such an icon in the ballet world,” says principal dancer Jessica Assef, who joined the company last season from the Atlanta Ballet.

“It’s such an honor to dance there.

It’s something you dream of when you’re little.”

Assef adds, “You know you’re going to meet these ballet stars from today’s generation and hear about the ones from before. The studios are named after them — the Fonteyn, the de Valois, the MacMillan — and they all have the pictures of their namesakes above them. So you’re there dancing and MacMillan is watching you. You [feel] the weight of it.”

Asked if she was surprised by anything during the residency, Assef replied, “How welcoming everyone was,” at which point Barbieri chimed in. “The surprise was that the reviews were great. The audience reaction was wonderful too,” she says.

As it turns out, all the fears about flopping in foggy Londontown were for naught. The hard work paid off.

It took lots of heavy lifting to get the Sarasota Ballet to the “Ashton Celebrated” program in London honoring the choreographer’s 120th birthday.

Of the Ashton ballets performed at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden, the Sarasota Ballet had presented three — “Varii Capricci,” “Dante Sonata” and “Sinfonietta” — during its 2023-24 season, which wrapped April 26-27 at the Sarasota Opera House.

“Sinfonietta” was in the last program of the season, so it was fresh in the dancers’ minds and bodies, but it still needed polish, Webb says.

Five days after their season finale, the Sarasota Ballet dancers returned to the studios, where Barbieri began to stage all the Ashton ballets that would be performed in London.

“It would have been easy to just do one program throughout the six days but instead I did three different programs,” says Webb. “So Maggie had to really teach everything with the help of Victoria (Hulland) and Octavio (Martin).”

Hulland, a former Sarasota Ballet principal dancer, danced many of Ashton’s ballets during 16 years on stage. She returned to the company in 2022 as artistic assistant to the directors. Martin is ballet master of the Sarasota Ballet.

Once they arrived in London, the Sarasota Ballet dancers only had a day off before they had to begin rehearsals. After the residency, Webb gave them another day off to go sightseeing.

During the London run, everything went like clockwork except for a last-minute laundry snafu on the first night, says Jennifer Hackbarth, Sarasota Ballet principal dancer.

“Our white tights turned pink in the laundry,” she says. “They must have been washed with something.”

However, the Royal Ballet’s costume department came up with some fresh white tights for their guests.

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

In addition to dancing their Ashton repertoire in the Royal Opera House’s Linbury Theatre, the Sarasota Ballet also shared the main stage with the Royal Ballet. The company performed “The Walk to the Paradise Garden” on June 7, 18, 21 and 22.

“For Kevin (O’Hare) to do that was quite remarkable,” Webb says. “It was a great gesture that showed he understood and respected what we’ve been trying to do with Sir Fred’s works.”

But no good deed goes unpunished. This was the performance that received a brickbat from the critics amid all their other bouquets.

The Guardian dismissed “The Walk to Paradise” as “an oddity, best forgotten.” Still, that’s more a criticism of Ashton than the company.

While the Sarasota Ballet’s management, staff and dancers pushed themselves to the limit to make the London residency a reality, it wouldn’t have been possible without the financial wizardry of Joseph Volpe, the company’s executive director, and the generosity of donors, Webb says.

The $640,000 cost of the London trip didn’t come out of the Sarasota Ballet’s regular budget, which is about $9.2 million. It was raised separately, Webb says, after the company received its London invite in April 2023.

Volpe joined the Sarasota Ballet in 2016 after retiring as general manager of the Metropolitan Opera. Along with Webb and Barbieri, Volpe forms the troika that has raised the Sarasota Ballet’s international profile and strengthened its financial footing.

Volpe’s financial acumen is needed more than ever in the wake of Gov. Ron DeSantis’ rejection last month of $32 million in state arts grants for fiscal 2025. Last year, the Sarasota Ballet got a state cultural grant close to $104,000. It had hoped for at least a similar amount this year.

The news of the cuts came while the Sarasota Ballet was in London, Webb says. But the company didn’t let it rain on their Covent Garden parade.

13

Left: The Sarasota Ballet traveled to London to appear in "Ashton Celebrated" June 4-9 at the Royal Opera House.

Bringing home the souvenir of a lifetime

S

arasota Ballet Director Iain Webb got some good news last month when he was in London rehearsing for the company’s residency at the Royal Opera House: Webb was honored with the 2024 British National Dance Award for Outstanding Achievement.

Webb was presented with the De Valois Award for Outstanding Achievement

by Graham Watts and Dame Monica Mason at London's Coronet Theatre on June 3, the night before the first performance.

He didn’t have time to dally at the presentation. “I took a taxi to the ceremony in Notting Hill Gate, said, ‘Thank you’ and got a cab back to the opera house,” says Webb, only half in jest.

“I might have shed a tear or two along the way.”

The National Dance Awards have been handed out since 2000 by the U.K.'s Critics' Circle, made up of more than 60 dance ­writers

and critics. This year, more than 300 companies, choreographers, performers and other artists were nominated for the awards.

“I was hoping the critics didn’t honor me one day and murder us the next,” Webb quips.

Webb’s honor wasn't just in recognition of his efforts to elevate the Sarasota Ballet since he and his wife, assistant-director Margaret Barbieri, took over the reins in 2007. The award also spotlighted his achievements as a former first soloist with London's Royal Ballet and other star turns during his career.

Under Webb's stewardship, the Sarasota Ballet has performed at the Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival in the Massachusetts Berkshires, twice at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., and several times in New York City, most recently in August 2022 at the Joyce Theatre.

Although the Sarasota

Courtesy image

Sarasota Ballet Director Iain Webb displays the National Dance Award for Outstanding Achievement that he received in London on June 3.

Ballet is known for its expertise in the works of Sir Frederick Ashton, the late choreographer and director of the Royal Ballet, it has a wide-ranging repertoire.

Among the choreographers whose works it performs are George Balanchine, Johan Kobborg, Kenneth MacMillan, Jessica Lang, Twyla Tharp and Christopher Wheeldon, to name a few.

Along with its profes-

sional dance company, the Sarasota Ballet offers youth and adult classes as well as pre-professional training at the Margaret Barbieri Conservatory.

Its summer intensive attracts hundreds of students from around the nation to study with the faculty of the Sarasota Ballet School, which uses the American Ballet Theatre national training curriculum.

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

THIS WEEK THURSDAY

JAZZ THURSDAY AT SAM 5:30 p.m. at Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail Free to $20 Visit SarasotaArtMuseum.org.

The Jazz Club of Sarasota teams up with the Sarasota Art Museum for an evening of jazz on the museum’s Michael and Marci Klein Plaza. Watch Darcie Allen and the Five Points Quintet and enjoy extended hours in the museum’s galleries, shop and bistro.

FRIDAY

Created by Nancy Allen Productions, this musical tribute to some of the first ladies of country features such classics as Patsy Cline’s “Crazy,” Tammy Wynette’s “Stand by Your Man” and Carrie Underwood’s “Last Name.” Runs through Aug. 4.

‘THE MUSIC OF LAUREL CANYON’ 7:30 p.m. at FST’s Court Cabaret, 1265 First St. $18-$42 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

If you know, you know. But not everyone knows about Laurel Canyon, the neighborhood above West Hollywood’s Sunset Strip that became home to folk musicians such as Joni Mitchell, Buffalo Springfield, Crosby, Stills, Nash, & Young and The Mamas and the Papas. Runs through Aug. 25.

‘DEAR JACK, DEAR LOUISE’ 8 p.m. at FST’s Keating Theatre, 1241 N. Palm Ave. $29-$46 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

Acclaimed playwright Ken Ludwig tells the story of his parents’ courtship during World War II. The play follows U.S. Army Capt. Jack Ludwig, a military doctor stationed in Oregon, who begins a life-changing pen-pal relationship with Louise Rabiner, an aspiring actress living in the Big Apple. Runs through Aug. 11.

SUMMER CIRCUS SPECTACULAR 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. at Historic Asolo Theater, 5401 Bay Shore Road $20 adults; $15 kids Visit Ringling.org.

If you’ve never seen a performance in The Ringling’s jewelbox venue, the Historic Asolo Theater, here’s your chance. Presided over by Ringmaster Jared Walker, the Summer Circus Spectacular includes contortionist Uranbileg Angarag, acrobatic hand balancers The Bello Sisters, hair hang artist Camille Langlois, slack wire performer Antino Pansa and clown Renaldo, a veteran of the Big Apple Circus. Runs through Aug. 17.

WBTT STAGE OF DISCOVERY SHOWCASE: ‘MAKE ROOM FOR ME’ 7:30 p.m. at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N. Orange Ave. $27 Visit WestcoastBlackTheatre.org.

“Make Room for Me” showcases students in Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe’s seventh annual summer musical theater program. The show represents the culmination of WBTT students’ five-week experience developing their musical, writing and dramatic talents. The student performances will be accompanied by a live band led by WBTT Resident Music Director Matthew McKinnon.

Runs through July 14.

MONDAY JAZZ JAM SRQ 5:30 p.m. at Selby Library, 1331 First St. Free Visit JazzClubSarasota.org.

Image courtesy of John Jones

Ken Ludwig’s “Dear Jack, Dear Louise” runs through Aug. 11 at FST’s Keating Theatre.

www.manasotaonline.com

Jazz Club of Sarasota presents an open mic jam session for professionals and amateurs alike sure to be enjoyed by the listening audience.

1734 South Tamiami Trail Venice, FL 34293 941.493.7441

14TH ANNUAL SARASOTA IMPROV FESTIVAL Florida Studio Theatre’s downtown Sarasota campus becomes a hotbed of improvisational comedy as visiting acts join the resident FST Improv for a jamboree of laughter and unexpected fun. Chile’s Lospleimovil troupe makes its debut at this year’s festival, which will be headlined by Impro Theatre, a Los Angeles group that gins up full-length plays inspired by the world’s greatest playwrights. Returning are fan favorites Available Cupholders, Big Bang Improv, Dad’s Garage, Parallelogramophonograph and North Coast.

Don’t miss the grand finale, when more than 80 festival artists unite on FST’s Gompertz Theatre stage for an unscripted show. Runs through July 13.

Courtesy image

"All Play," the annual finale performance of the Sarasota Improv Festival, shown in 2023.

IF YOU GO When: 6 p.m. Friday, July 12 Where: Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 N. Palm Ave. Tickets: Individual tickets $10.

Two-day festival passes $75; Friday $49; Saturday $59 Info: FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

File photo

NEWISH JEWISH PLAYS: ‘DANCING ON GLASS’ 7 p.m. The Players Centre, Studio 1130, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail $12; $30 for three-play series Visit SarasotaJewishTheatre.org.

You may never see a ghost orchid in the wild, but you can see Clyde Butcher's photo of it at "Nature Through the Lens," which runs through Aug. 31 at Selby Gardens Historic Spanish Point.

If it’s summer in Sarasota, it’s time for play readings. The Sarasota Jewish Theatre enters the derby with Newish Jewish Plays, a three-play series on three consecutive Mondays. First out of the gate is Gary Morgenstein’s “Dancing on Glass,” a play about the firing of a Jewish teacher of Israeli-Palestinian studies for not being “balanced enough.”

This ripped-from-the-headlines production will be directed by Blake Walton, managing director of SaraSolo Productions and an award-winning multihyphenate performer.

CLYDE BUTCHER: NATURE THROUGH THE LENS If you haven’t seen the breathtaking exhibition of photographer Clyde Butcher at Historic Spanish Point, why not take a morning drive to the 30-acre compound overlooking Little Sarasota Bay? Dotted throughout the campus are large-scale prints of Butcher’s black-and-white photographs of Florida’s flora and fauna. Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

4551 N. Washington Blvd.

Sarasota, FL 34234 941.355.8437

2510 1st Street West Bradenton, FL 34208 941.748.4679

OUR PICK

IF YOU GO When: 10 a.m. Sunday, July 14 Where: Selby Gardens Historic Spanish Point campus, 401 N. Tamiami Trail, Nokomis Tickets: $20 Info: Selby.org.

OUR SHOWROOMS ARE OPEN Special Financing Available

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‘RHINESTONE COWGIRLS’ 7:30 p.m. at FST’s Goldstein Cabaret, 1239 N. Palm Ave. $18-$42 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

DON’T MISS

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

15

EATING WITH EMMA

Hot diggity dog! July is National Hot Dog Month Bite into the best buns and dogs in Sarasota and Manatee counties.

You’re the Bun for Me: My oh my, the banh mi dog ($5.99) is the runner-up wiener for me. Packed with cucumber, jalapeno, daikon radishes, cilantro and avocado lime deliciousness, the flavors flawlessly fold into one another in a fantastic way that foodies only dream of.

EMMA BURKE JOLLY CONTRIBUTOR

M

JOEY D’S CHICAGO STYLE EATERY & PIZZERIA

3811 Kenny Drive, Sarasota, 941378-8900; 6401 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-753-8900; 945 10th St. E., Palmetto, 941-417-2106; 750 U.S. 41 Bypass N., Venice, 941-7861300; JoeyDsFL.com Let’s Be Frank: I was raised by two proud Chicago natives. When we went to Madison Square Garden as kids, we were not there rooting for the Knicks, baby, we were rooting for MJ, Scottie and Dennis. Our answering machine message when I was growing up was, “Da Bulls, Da Bears, Da Burkes aren’t home right now so leave a message.” So when I stumbled upon the original Chicago-style hot dog ($6.09) at Joey’s, I felt instantly connected to my Chicago roots. I am determined to have my husband eat one as he watches the Cubs beat the Guardians in the next World Series ... again.

Courtesy images

Doggystyle, Sarasota’s Main Street one-stop dog-shop, is bun in a million.

6569 Superior Ave., Sarasota; 941-922-7979; Facebook.com/ TonysChicagoBeef

Let’s Be Frank: If I’m getting my mom to eat a hot dog, I know it’s gonna be the Chicago Dawg ($6.29).

Served up just like they do at Wrigley Field, Tony’s prepares this “is-it-a-sandwich or is-it-not-asandwich?” in a poppy-seed bun with all the Midwestern fixings: yellow mustard, gorgeous green sweet pickle relish, chopped white onion, tomato slices, a delightful dill pickle spear, pickled sport peppers and celery salt.

You’re the Bun for Me: To brat or not to brat, that is the question. The answer? Definitely yes. The Chicago

Willy-Yums, in business since 2017, makes the best (and most unique!) dogs in Bradenton.

brat ($6.69) comes with kraut on a hot dog bun or, my personal pick, French bread.

WILLY-YUMS HOTDOGS & MORE 2003 14th St. W., Bradenton; WillyYums.com

Let’s Be Frank: Don’t be a loser, be a wiener and find where this local

You’re the Bun for Me: Next time I head to Willy’s, I am crushing a Carolina slaw dog made with mustard and homemade coleslaw. My eyes are on the prize, and the prize lays between buns found in this Bradenton food truck.

PACIFIC COUNTER

4942 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, 941-217-6016; 11581 FL-70, Suite 109, Bradenton, 941-7398039; PacificCounter.com Let’s Be Frank: What do you get

DOGGYSTYLE

1544 Main St., Sarasota; 941-2605835; HotDogsWithStyle.com

Choose from Hawaiian, kimchi, banh mi or Cali dogs at Pacific Counter.

when a girl who loves food walks into a poke bowl and burrito bar? A newfound love for Hawaiian dogs ($5.99). Never judge a restaurant by its vibe, right? I wouldn’t have expected to add this dog to the list, but ever since my first bite, I can’t stop thinking about it. After eating this dog smothered with Hawaiian salsa, sesame seeds and chili aioli, I now know the true meaning of aloha.

Let’s Be Frank: With more than 13 signature dog options ($6.99) to choose from and four types of dogs (100% beef, beef/pork, red hot or vegan) dog-lovers are surely to fall in love with the array of samplings here. Choose from Memphis style with beautiful bacon jam, shredded cheese and green onion or the Philly with sautéed onions, mushrooms and Swiss.

You’re the Bun for Me: Animal rights group PETA ranked Sarasota’s own Doggystyle as one of the top 10 best vegan options in the country. Their pick? The Chicago Hot ($6.49), where you sub standard relish for hot pepper relish, has been named one of the best!

SELBY.ORG

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TONY’S CHICAGO BEEF CO.

food truck is parked to get your dawg on. The list of these all-beef hot dogs ($5 each) will have you relishing foodie heaven, but the chili and cheese is frankly the top dog.

However, if you aren’t feeling like a heavy doggie, go ahead and get the classic New York style. I can just picture my dad snacking on this, humming Frank Sinatra and saying, “I’ll never get why your mom hates hot dogs.”

You’re the Bun for Me: Come one, come all, it’s chow time. Chicago combo, AKA Da Chief ($12.99) is dished out with thinly sliced beef on top of a tasty Italian sausage and sweet or hot peppers.

428055-1

y mother has not always been a fan of the boys I chose to partner up with — and as usual, mother knows best.

My high school boyfriend sported fake teeth after getting knocked out one too many times during hockey games. He was also on a first-name basis with the local cops. My college boyfriend broke up with me while I was packing for a trip to Disney World with my entire family. Plus, the number of times he cheated on me was greater than all the galas thrown during a Sarasota season.

So when I went from zero to hero with my forever boyfriend, I think it was the proudest I ever made my mom. When he brought her flowers, prosecco and her favorite toilet paper (Charmin) just a week after meeting her, she knew I had learned quite well from my mistakes.

Other than their love for me, my mom and now husband have bonded over their joy for Johnny Walker (black) on the rocks and their admiration for Idris Elba.

Most importantly, they have joined forces and created the “we hate hot dogs” task force.

But this July, with it being National Hot Dog Month, I am determined to get them both to down some dogs. Here are the best spots in town to do just that.

Classifieds 28 Games 27 Real Estate 25 Weather 27

JULY 11, 2024

YOUR NEIGHBORS

A Freedom Fest first WINNERS OF THE HOT DIGGITY-DOG PARADE

Longboat dogs ‘married’ at annual July 4 event.

BEST OWNER & DOG COMBINATION: Medge and Michael Jaspan and their dog, Bisou, and Frank and Martina Kinslow and their dog, Tinkerbell

PETRA RIVERA | STAFF WRITER

D

id anyone hear wedding bells at the 2024 Freedom Fest?

The annual tradition run by the

Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce held its first red, white and blue dog wedding July 4.

Photos by Petra Rivera

MOST PATRIOTIC DOG: Heather, Ray and Ayla Sellers and their dog, Banyon

Bisou and Tinkerbell were “married” at the Longboat Key Chamber's Freedom Fest.

FREEDOM FEST GRAND MARSHAL

HAL CHRISTENSEN General Manager Hal ­Christensen represented Harry’s Continental Kitchens as the grand marshal in the 2024 Freedom Fest.

Christensen is the son of owner Harry Christensen and grew up in the beloved restaurant. Harry’s hit its 45th anniversary this year, so it was an honor as they celebrate the achievement.

“There weren’t a lot of other

businesses involved in the event,” said Christensen. “So we were definitely honored to lead it. We have been a part of this community for a long time so it felt great to know how we are supported by the Chamber, the Rotary Club and the town, of course. I loved having my family out there. We felt very patriotic, and it was a fun little parade, being that it is the shortest parade in America.”

Courtesy image

Lynn, Harry and Hal Christensen are celebrating 45 years of business in 2024.

Chucko the Clown

The Chamber set up a petting zoo for children to learn about and play with unique animals. The team found out about the petting zoo through Chamber member Jessica Ryherd from Feeding Empty Little Tummies.

Ryherd’s children own a petting zoo business called RCC Farm Experience and were very accommodating to the Chamber. They offered big and small animals and a variety for the children to learn about including goats and ferrets.

The Chamber also had face painting, arts and crafts activities and games for the children.

“Everyone has been telling me that this is the most kids and families they have seen at Freedom Fest,” said Verreault. “The petting zoo was a really big pull, and I love that we are able to support Jessica and her family like this.”

MOST CREATIVE DOG: Eileen Kamerick and Vic Heckler and their dog, Tully

HONORABLE MENTIONS: n Kevin and Jan Madden and their dog, Fly n Katie Armstrong and her dog, Auggie n Judy Boice and her dog, Brigitte n Diane Weisman and her dogs, Kibble and Parker

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Last year, the two lovebirds Bisou and Tinkerbell met at the parade and had an instant connection of puppy love that the Observer covered. The dogs’ love pushed the owners, Medge and Michael Jaspan and Frank and Martina Kinslow, to become friends.

This was the start of many doggy playdates.

A year later, the dogs are expecting puppies, with Tinkerbell’s due date being July 9.

For the annual hot diggity-dog contest sponsored by the Rotary Club of Longboat Key July 4 as part of Freedom Fest, the couple decided to throw a doggy wedding that won them first prize. Mayor Ken Schneier officiated for the happy couple.

Along with Tinkerbell and Bisou’s wedding, Freedom Fest had a lot of firsts. It was the first time that Chamber President Kim Verreault and Marketing Media Relations Manager Felicia McDermott hosted the event.

They hoped for some “old-fashioned American fun” and that is what they gave Longboaters.

The “shortest parade in America” started at 9 a.m. on Bay Isles Road with many Longboat organizations and businesses walking in it such as the Longboat Island Chapel, the Longboat Key Garden Club, the Rotary Club, Observer Media Group, Longboat Key Police and Fire Rescue Department and Cannons Marina.

Harry’s Continental Kitchens General Manager Hal Christensen led the parade as grand marshal.

Cannons Marina awarded the Observer Media Group as the most patriotic group. After the parade, the Garden Club released butterflies in Bicentennial Park.

The Chamber trio of Verreault, McDermott and Connie Darah prioritized having new activities for children this year.

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

17

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

Mahjong master class Carol Peschel refined her play over 20 years and now breaks down the challenging game for Longboaters.

PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER

M

ultiple days a week, Longboater Carol Peschel walks out of her home with distinctive jewelry.

She wears bracelets, necklaces and earrings with Chinese symbols written on tiles. These aren’t just any tiles. These are patterns from her favorite game: mahjong.

Peschel has been playing mahjong for 20 years and teaches it at The Paradise Center. Even with its intricate tiles and many cognitive benefits, it is so much more than just a tabletop game. What brings Peschel back every time is the close-knit community she has built through the game.

“In mahjong, you can play with two, three or four people,” said Peschel. “So with those options, you can build a strong community while playing. I have this one group that is very social, and we always get together, like for people’s birthdays.

It is so important for people our age to have a community. You should have a place to go where you can meet like-minded people and have fun.”

Peschel started playing mahjong after her friend from the Longboat Key Garden Club, Susan Landau, introduced it to her in 2004. She found it difficult at first, but the beauty of tiles and the complexity of the game pushed her to practice.

After years of dedicated play, she started teaching mahjong at The Paradise Center in 2014.

Mahjong is a Chinese game with distinctive tiles and an annual rule card governing combinations and scoring. Each turn, a player will pick up a tile on the table and discard a tile. Players keep doing this to make a combination from the card depend-

Sandi Love

Photos by Petra Rivera

Carol Peschel and Marilyn Katzmark

CAROL PESCHEL’S ADVICE FOR BEGINNERS “The hardest thing for beginners to realize is they’re not going to learn how to play overnight. It’s not like any other game. It takes sometimes years for people to really master it.

You cannot get frustrated when you don’t get it on your first try.” n Practice combinations on your time n The most important thing is to learn the card. The combinations remain the same even though other aspects change.

ing on what other ­players put down.

You can make patterns based on certain numbers, winds (north, south, east or west), flowers and dragon tiles. The first to make a specific number of matching pairs and sets wins. Peschel explained that the game changes based on the number of players and forms of the game.

Peschel described mahjong like a dance. Players are responsible for their own moves, but they build off other players’ moves to create beautiful patterns. She likes that the solo aspect of the game allows her to build independence in her skills but playing with others encourages socializing.

Along with the community aspect, Peschel said that mahjong is a stimulating game that keeps the mind sharp. Playing mahjong is proven

Maria Ray

fulfillment. She loves to see when it clicks for people after working with them for weeks. Mahjong players at The Paradise Center said she is a kind and patient teacher.

“Mahjong is basically a foreign language,” said Peschel. “It takes time to learn, but it is so worth it when you get it. It’s fun and great for the brain.

But really, it is a great place to make friends. I have taught so many people throughout the years so it is crazy to think about how they are carrying on my passion for it themselves.”

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

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to improve hand-eye coordination, short-term memory, attention span and logical thinking, according to a study done by Frontiers in ­Neurology.

Every Tuesday and Thursday from 1 to 3 p.m., The Paradise Center is filled with dedicated mahjong players. During the fall, Longboaters fill seven or eight tables in the center.

Since summer is a slower time on the island, it’s a good time to learn the complicated game. Peschel teaches beginners, usually teaching three at a time during the season.

Paradise Center member Bonnie Wilder helps intermediate-level players with any questions they might have once they have played for a few months.

Peschel said she never expected to be a teacher, but teaching mahjong has brought her a whole new level of

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

19

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

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he Bird Key Yacht Club has a unique way to pass the time while waiting for the fireworks show on the Fourth of July.

Every year, BKYC members team up and build cars out of potatoes and carrots during their July 4 celebration. The racers look forward to this tradition to bond with other club members.

“I was on a cruise in the Caribbean, and this was one of the activities on the ship,” said club member Buck Fry. “I thought it was so intriguing and different.

It was a fun way to spend time with everyone bonding, so I took a photo of the ramp that they used and built it when I came back.”

Fry suggested the potato car races as a way to pass the time while waiting for the fireworks show. A decade later, the potato car races have become a tradition.

Vice Commodore Tony Britt said it is nothing like he has ever seen before.

Adults and children participate either by themselves or as a team.

Rules for the race are to build your potato car after dinner only using the materials given by the club, which include a potato, a carrot, wheels and sticks to hold it together.

This year, there were 28 teams.

The races are performed in a bracket-style competition. Commodore Michael Landis judges each race, especially if it's a close one.

The Rodgers family won this year’s event and received the potato car races trophy, which is in the shape of a Mr. Potato Head toy.

“It is amazing to see how not only the kids get involved but how the adults get into it,” said Peggy Fry. “The adults really take it more seriously than the kids do.”

— PETRA RIVERA

Courtesy image by Tony Britt

Cooper Rodgers, Ryan Rodgers, Karen Frumkin and Patrick Rodgers were the 2024 Bird Key Yacht Club Potato Race champions.

Petra Rivera

Scott Matthews pulls the lever to release the cars, while JJ Johnson races his potato car.

Petra Rivera

Emma Bailey Gaddy, Walker Gaddy and Curt Nothstine build their potato car.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

21

REAL ESTATE BY REAL EXPERTS OVER $100 MILLION PENDING AND SOLD JUST IN 2024

SCAN FOR MORE

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BEACHPLACE • 1065 GULF OF MEXICO DR., #402 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $929,000 2BR/2BA • 1,392 SF • Furnished • Excellent Rental Policy

WESTON POINT • 617 WESTON POINTE COURT • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $3,495,000 4BR/5BA • 4,395 SF • Canal front w/dock • Courtyard with casita

PENDING

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ISLANDER CLUB • 2295 GULF OF MEXICO DR., #64-S • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $650,000 2BR/2BA • 1,235 SF • Bay & Golf course views

ISLANDS WEST • 2525 GULF OF MEXICO DR., #11B • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $1,299,000 2BR/2BA • 1,491 SF • Gulf front • 11th Floor

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FAIRWAY BAY • 1930 HARBOURSIDE DR., #111 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $699,000 2BR/2BA • 1,442 SF • Full bay views • Walkdown to bayfront

LBK TOWERS • 603 LONGBOAT CLUB RD., #1102N • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $1,799,000 2BR/2BA • 1,458 SF • Gulf, bay, golf course views • Extended Gulf front terrace

PENDING

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BIRD KEY • 470 E. ROYAL FLAMINGO DRIVE • SARASOTA, FL • $1,725,000 3BR/2BA • 2,480 SF • Open Floor plan • Pool with oversized yard

LBK TOWERS • 601 LONGBOAT CLUB RD., #301-S • LONGBOAT KEY, FL • $2,800,000 3BR/3BA • 2,420 SF • Gulf front • Completely Updated

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BEACHPLACE • 1055 GULF OF MEXICO DR., #605 • LONGBOAT KEY FL • $1,790,000 2BR/2BA • 1,503 SF • Penthouse Level • Direct Gulf front

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22

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

YOUR CALENDAR

> edwardjones.com | Member SIPC

Dessert Club

Join us for a casual discussion of current events, the economy and investing. We look forward to seeing you!

Coffee and dessert will be served.

When When

Where Where

Tuesday, August 6, 2024 Tuesday, July 2, 2024 3:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Edward Jones Edward Jones 595 Bay 595 Bay Isles IslesRoad, Road,Suite Suite260 260 Longboat Key, FL 34228 Longboat Key, FL 34228

We hope hope you you and and a We a guest guest will will join join us. us.Please Pleasecall callLinda Lindaatat941-263-7821 941-263-7821 or email linda.dillon@edwardjones.com by 07/30/2024. or email linda.dillon@edwardjones.com by 06/26/2024.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 17

BEST BET

MOVIE MATINEE 1-3 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Enjoy some fresh popcorn during a free showing of “The Highwaymen.” In this 2019 film, two former Texas Rangers come out of retirement to apprehend the two famous outlaws, Bonnie and Clyde.

Call 383-6493.

TUESDAY, JULY 16

POP-UP LIBRARY 10-11:30 a.m. at Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road. On the first and third Tuesday of each month in the back parking lot of Town Hall, the Pop-up Library will be at Longboat Key with books for all ages.

Sign up for a library card or read a book by the beach. Call 861-5475.

RECURRING EVENTS MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND SATURDAYS

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

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

MONDAYS

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

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

Michelle K Johnson, CFP®, CEPA®, AAMS™ 595 Bay Isles Rd, Ste 260 Longboat Key, FL 34228 941-263-7821

THINKING OUT LOUD 1-2:30 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Retired Lawyer Mike Karp will lead a lively discussion on current topics such as world affairs, national politics and local issues. Bring questions, thoughts and an open mind. Call 383-6493.

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PILATES SCULPT From 9-9:50 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Pilates Sculpt is a combination class mixing traditional Pilates exercises into a fun, challenging workout to upbeat music. It will make you sweat, encourage your body to burn calories and make you stronger and more flexible.

This class is for all levels. Cost is $15.

Walk-ins welcome. Call 383-6493.

I

File image

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

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

Call 383-6493.

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

TUESDAYS

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

ROTARY CLUB Meets at 5 p.m. on first and third Tuesdays in All Angels Parish Hall, 563 Bay Isles Road. To learn more, call Nancy Rozance at 203-605-4066 or email Info@LongboatKeyRotary.org.

TUESDAYS AND FRIDAYS

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

WEDNESDAYS

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

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CONGRATULATIONS TO THE

%

IN THE WORLD With Coldwell Banker

$3.4 Billion Career Sales

Leah George

941-780-0597

Steven Kepecz

Judy Kepecz-Hays

941-587-1700 941-376-6411

July 4, 2024 July 11,2024

North Siesta Key A rare jewel! 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, Bird Key & Lido from its expansive 120-foot private beach with 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 sunrise and sunsets. www.21LandsEndLane.com

3500 Bayou Louise Lane | Siesta Key | $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 40 x 20 pool, a spa, a 24K boat lift & a 12 x 20 platform to lift 5,000 lb. - kayaks or jet skis. The main level has the Primary & guest suites, a library, a chef's kitchen, an elevator, and a 4-car garage. Few steps to DEEDED BEACH ACCESS and is the most beautiful home on the north end of Siesta Key. www.3500BayouLouise.com

ARIA

Open House on Sunday 07/14 from 1-4 pm 2251 Gulf of Mexico Drive #204 | Aria - Longboat Key | $8,900,000 3 bed + office or 4 bed | 3.5 bath | 4,032 Sq Ft Modern Maintenance free home, 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 sq. ft. terrace, with 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

65 Lighthouse Point Drive | South Longboat Key | $8,150,000 4 bed + den/office + bonus area | 4.5 bath | 4,941 Sq Ft Step into this modern Luxury Waterfront Architectural Masterpiece, where luxury knows no limits. 4 bed plus office/library/den and bonus area, stunning living room with fireplace, 3 car garage with ample of storage. The gourmet kitchen adjoins the spacious family gathering area that opens to the spa, pool, and patio with stunning water views to see and enjoy your private 40' dock and vessel on a wide protected basin with 7" of water at high tide, no bridges to the Gulf of Mexico. www.65Lighthouse.com

L’Ambiance 415 L’Ambiance Drive #A401 | L’Ambiance | $6,254,000 3 bed plus flex room | 3.5 bath | 3,380 Sq Ft Experience luxury living at its finest in this updated former model at L'Ambiance within the gates of "Islandside" Longboat Key Club. It boasts a coveted southwestern exposure with year-round sunsets. It features walls of glass with wraparound terraces that offer unparalleled vistas of the majestic Gulf of Mexico waters and pristine white sandy beaches.

L'Ambiance seamlessly blends casual elegance with upscale amenities. Step off the elevator into your private lobby and delight in the impeccable design details, including soaring 10 ft. ceilings, marble flooring throughout, and a state-of-the-art gourmet kitchen perfect for culinary enthusiasts. Almost new Home on the beach! Your pet is welcome.

LAmbianceA401.com

Open House on Sunday 07/14 from 1-4pm 3312 Sabal Cove Lane | Bay Isles | $3,380,000 4 bed en-suite + den + bonus room | 2 half bath | 5,150 Sq Ft Unsurpassed island living on Longboat Key! This Lakefront Home with southern exposure offers an easy blend of comfort, style, and privacy within the gates of Bay Isle Harborside. It boasts 4 bedrooms en-suite, plus an office with 2 half baths spanning over 5,150 sq. ft. of air conditioned living space, ensuring ample room for family and guests. The Chef's Kitchen has high-end stainless-steel appliances, custom cabinetry, and a generous island, a culinary enthusiast's dream. 3-car garage. DEEDED BEACH ACCESS. 3312SabalCove.com

The VUE

1241 Gulf of Mexico Drive #105 | $2,575,000 2 bed + den or 3 bed | 2.5 bath | 2,585 Sq Ft | Turnkey Furnished The Water Club on the South end of Longboat Key is a rare jewel in condominium living.

Almost new 2,585 sq. ft. under air, features a garden, and partial Gulf views. Southern exposure w/walls of glass, 10 ft. ceilings, wood flooring, extended 1,000 sq. ft. terraces.

The Water Club is exceptionally well-run w/strong reserve fund, a magnificent clubhouse, an Olympic-sized pool, tennis, and 2 pets under 35 lbs. welcome. www.WaterClub105.com

1155 N Gulfstream Ave #1407 | $2,450,000 2 bed | 2.5 bath | 1,665 Sq Ft | Furnished!

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-to-ceiling 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

443 John Ringling Blvd, Suite F | St. Armands Circle, FL 34236 | Kepecz@JudyHays.com | www.LongboatKeyLuxury.com

427542-1

The Water Club

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

LONGBOAT KEY 510 Bowsprit Lane 5 Beds 6/1 Baths 4,234 Sq. Ft. Lynn Morris 941-400-4526 A4609109 $5,250,000

CASEY KEY 406 S Casey Key Road 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,738 Sq. Ft. Nicole Dovgopolyi 941-356-5849 A4598712 $3,725,000

LONGBOAT KEY 620 Jackson Way 2 Beds 2 Baths 2,140 Sq. Ft. Cathy Meldahl, Pa 941-724-7228 A4606443 $3,400,000

SARASOTA 35 Watergate Drive 503 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,985 Sq. Ft. Joan Dickinson & Beth Afflebach 941-914-0496 A4601273 $2,975,000

LONGBOAT KEY 6940 Longboat Drive S 3 Beds 2 Baths 2,550 Sq. Ft. Bill Anderson 941-313-4059 A4602353 $2,599,000

TERRA CEIA 130 Burns Road 3 Beds 2/2 Baths 2,947 Sq. Ft. Ian Schmitzerle 734-664-5466 A4608977 $2,250,000

LONGBOAT KEY 5930 Emerald Harbor Drive 4 Beds 4 Baths 2,986 Sq. Ft. The Walter Group 941-809-0907 A4608430 $2,195,000

LONGBOAT KEY 545 Sanctuary Drive B406 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,375 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy & Gail Wittig 941-961-8850 A4576305 $1,949,000

LIDO KEY 1212 Benjamin Franklin Drive 309 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,812 Sq. Ft. Pat Rodriguez 941-685-5805 A4595720 $1,200,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3010 Grand Bay Boulevard 422 2 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,143 Sq. Ft. Michael Nink, Pa 941-914-2805 A4588579 $1,145,000

LIDO KEY 1212 Benjamin Franklin Drive 607 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,421 Sq. Ft. Robert Dardas 941-376-7591 A4590874 $1,140,000

LONGBOAT KEY 578 580 Companion Way 3 Beds 3 Baths 1,792 Sq. Ft. Bill Anderson 941-313-4059 A4598090 $1,045,000

LONGBOAT KEY 5270 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 504 3 Beds 3 Baths 1,498 Sq. Ft. Bobbie Banan 941-356-2659 A4588989 $850,000

BRADENTON BEACH 1007 Gulf Drive N 208 2 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,349 Sq. Ft. Kathy Harman 941-900-9828 A4588518 $779,000

LONGBOAT KEY 4350 Chatham Drive E307 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,072 Sq. Ft. Malihe Karimi 941-376-5099 A4613210 $749,000

ANNA MARIA 520 Spring Avenue A 2 Beds 1 Baths 492 Sq. Ft. Deborah Schlener 651-894-3916 A4591412 $745,000

ANNA MARIA 520 Spring Avenue C 2 Beds 1 Baths 720 Sq. Ft. Deborah Schlener 651-894-3916 A4595638 $745,000

BRADENTON BEACH 117 10th Street N 122 2 Beds 2 Baths 873 Sq. Ft. Deborah Schlener 651-894-3916 A4588152 $725,000

CORTEZ 3905 Mariners Walk 813 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,829 Sq. Ft. Kathy Valente 941-685-6767 A4595981 $725,000

LONGBOAT KEY 529 Forest Way 2 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,440 Sq. Ft. Cathy Meldahl, PA & Susan Smith 941-724-7228 A4603909 $659,000

SARASOTA 800 S Blvd Of The Presidents 20 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,090 Sq. Ft. Philip Pisano, III 941-468-8603 A4612346 $650,000

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

CORTEZ 4107 129th Street W 203 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,468 Sq. Ft. Dede Curran 941-928-3255 A4597114 $595,000

LONGBOAT KEY 4310 Falmouth Drive A205 1 Bed 1 Baths 747 Sq. Ft. Malihe Karimi 941-376-5099 A4615749 $525,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3808 Gulf Of Mexico Drive E307 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,007 Sq. Ft. Rudy Dudon 941-234-3991 A4610677 $425,000

LONGBOAT KEY 6609 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 4,132 Sq. Ft. The Walter Group 941-809-0907 A4587168 $4,500,000

LONGBOAT KEY 2333 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 1B1 2 Beds 2/1 Baths 3,238 Sq. Ft. Robert Delaney 941-315-3185 A4599566 $4,500,000

SARASOTA 35 Watergate Drive 1205 4 Beds 4 Baths 3,659 Sq. Ft. Joan Dickinson & Beth Afflebach 941-914-0496 A4608892 $4,300,000

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM 427579-1

24

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

JUNE 24-28

ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR

A

COUNTRY CLUB SHORES

Richard and Sarah Ayotte, of Longboat Key, sold their home at 520 Chipping Lane to Ronald and Tammy Jurinek, of Naperville, Illinois, for $5.13 million. Built in 2022, it has five bedrooms, four-and-ahalf baths, a pool and 4,412 square feet of living area.

LONGBOAT KEY TOWERS

Ronald and Marilyn Horner, of Longboat Key, sold their Unit S301 condominium at 601 Longboat Club Road to Brian Smith, trustee, of Bristol, Indiana, for $2.8 million.

Built in 1970, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,420 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.35 million in 2017.

L’AMBIANCE AT LONGBOAT KEY CLUB

Edward and Helen Rhawn, of Louisville, Kentucky, sold their Unit D-206 condominium at 415 L’Ambiance Drive to The Bryn Mawr Trust Co., trustee, for $2,575,000. Built in 1992, it has two bedrooms, two-and-two-half baths and 2,634 square feet of living area. It sold for $670,000 in 1992.

JOHN RINGLING ESTATES

Richard Kelly, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, sold the home at 225 N. Boulevard of the Presidents to Peter Tom Edward Turner and Michelle Lynn Turner, of Longboat Key, for $2.3 million. Built in 1968, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,058 square feet of living area.

It sold for $375,000 in 2009.

Courtesy image by Kathleen and Brian Maher

Robert and Barbara Geertsema, of Ontario, Canada, sold their Unit 303 condominium at 4651 Gulf of Mexico Drive to CAJ Associates LLC for $6 million.

QUEEN’S HARBOUR

Norman and Sylvia Samet, of Greensboro, North Carolina, sold their home at 3584 Fair Oaks Lane to Stephen and Annette Shores, of Centralia, Illinois, for $2.3 million.

Built in 1998, it has two bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,959 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.3 million in 2001.

THE BEACHES OF LONGBOAT KEY

Rochelle Diana McKinney, trustee, of Sarasota, sold the Unit 308 condominium at 775 Longboat Club Road to Henry and Alexandra Walter, of Longboat Key, for $2 million.

Built in 1984, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,122 square feet of living area. It sold for $610,000 in 1998.

SANCTUARY AT LONGBOAT KEY CLUB

Susan Santos Paulson and Thomas Paulson, of Longboat Key, sold their Unit B-202 condominium at 585 Sanctuary Drive to NDKIRK Real Estate LLC for $1.8 million. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 1,823 square feet of living area. It sold for $1,952,000 in 2023.

trustees, of South Easton, Massachusetts, sold the Unit 1103 condominium at 2101 Harbourside Drive to Sheree Debra Levitsky and Mordechai Pinkasovic, of Resto, Virginia, for $1,397,500. Built in 1984, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,219 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.31 million in 2022.

TPHLBK7KIDS LLC sold the Unit 903 condominium at 2123 Harbourside Drive to Bart and April Richert, of Williamson, Tennessee, for $925,000. Built in 1984, it has three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths and 2,224 square feet of living area.

It sold for $420,800 in 2016.

J&B’s Beach Pad LLC sold the Unit 803 condominium at 2153 Harbourside Drive to Mariano Ruben Sanchez and Deidre Margaret McMahon Sanchez, of Longboat Key, for $775,000. Built in 1984, it has three bedrooms, two baths and

PROMENADE

Moonasar Rampertaap, trustee, and Coulisia Rampertaap sold the Unit 506 condominium at 1211 Gulf of Mexico Drive to William Connors Jr., of Longboat Key, for $1,475,000.

Built in 1985, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,598 square feet of living area. It sold for $225,000 in 1991.

James and Nathalie Diener, of Sarasota, sold their Unit T1-102-C condominium at 2063 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Robert Elmes and Lindsay Ann Wardman, of Longboat Key, for $825,000. Built in 1974, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 1,846 square feet of living area. It sold for $687,500 in 2017.

BAYPORT BEACH AND TENNIS CLUB

Robert and Susan Ellis, trustees, sold the Unit 518 condominium at 518 Bayport Way to Bradley Andrew Charlton and Carrie Elizabeth Russell, of Ontario, Canada, for $750,000. Built in 1980, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,601 square feet of living area. It sold for $575,000 in 2006.

In with the new NOW TAKING CONTRACTS

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

William and Kathleen Humphrey,

DOWNTOWN SARASOTA

These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of June 28-July 4 in order of dollar amounts.

LONGBOAT KEY Permit

Applicant

Amount

3405 Winding Oaks Drive Alt/Renovation Christine Hersberger (TTEE)

$348,106

3060 Grand Bay Blvd. #153 Alt/Renovation Colleen Harrison (TTEE)

$260,000

2307 Harbour Oaks Drive Re-roof

Charles Hawkins (E LIFE EST)

$198,098

2317 Harbour Oaks Drive Re-roof Rebecca Howard Revocable

$188,386

2326 Harbour Oaks Drive

Re-roof

Gary Ranftle

$188,386

2333 Harbour Oaks Drive

Re-roof

Frank Woods

$188,386

2341 Harbour Oaks Drive

Re-roof

Vincent Molinari

$188,386

2348 Harbour Oaks Drive Re-roof

Nancy H. Kane $188,386 Amended And Restated

2358 Harbour Oaks Drive

Rhonda Daniels

Re-roof

2365 Harbour Oaks Drive Re-roof Thomas and Susan Bisanz 2373 Harbour Oaks Drive

SEAPLACE

HARBOUR OAKS AT LONGBOAT KEY CLUB

TOP BUILDING PERMITS

Address

2,224 square feet of living area. It sold for $800,000 in 2022.

Re-roof

2307 Harbour Oaks Drive Siding

$188,386 $188,386

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

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

MOVE-IN SPRING 2024

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

GOLDEN GATE POINT

LONGBOAT KEY

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

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

Leonhard Korowajczuk $188,386 Charles Hawkins (E LIFE EST)

$184,491

2301 Harbour Oaks Drive

Re-roof

James Calvert

$143,326

2381 Harbour Oaks Drive

Re-roof

Klaus Tenter

$143,326

2020 Harbourside Drive #443

Windows/Doors

Truman Dehner

$109,512

2301 Harbour Oaks Drive

Siding

James Calvert

$101,891

2381 Harbour Oaks Drive

Siding

Klaus Tenter

$101,891

1045 Gulf of Mexico Drive #101

Windows/Doors

LBK Holdings LLC

$90,729

1065 Gulf of Mexico Drive #101

Windows/Doors

LBK Holdings LLC

$90,729

1065 Gulf of Mexico Drive #501

Windows/Doors

Robert Bobrow

$90,729 Source: Town of Longboat Key

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

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

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

427631-1

condominium in Sage LBK tops all transactions in this week’s real estate. Robert and Barbara Geertsema, of Ontario, Canada, sold their Unit 303 condominium at 4651 Gulf of Mexico Drive to CAJ Associates LLC for $6 million. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, fourand-a-half baths and 4,012 square feet of living area. It sold for $5,374,100 in 2023.

REAL ESTATE

Condo in Sage LBK tops sales at $6 million

25

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

T H E G R O U P

Tracey Stetler

Steven Moore

Patrick DiPinto

Rene DiPinto

Nicholle DiPinto McKierman

We are a collaboration of savvy real estate professionals with decades of local experience. We focus on selling exceptional properties located in downtown and on our local islands. We represent buyers and sellers in our marketplace with a unique viewpoint, as we live in the communities that we sell. This local perspective makes us experts in our field, allowing us to provide you all the information for you and your family to make the best decision in your real estate endeavor.

5444 GULF OF MEXICO DR

5440-5442 GULF OF MEXICO DR 6,900,000.00 – Vacant Land 2.08 Acres Proposed for 7 Buildable Lots w/Private Beach Contact: Tracey Stetler 941-266-9001

$16,995,000 – Under Contract 5 Beds 7 Baths 8,964 Sq. Ft. 1 Acre Modern Compound Contact: Patrick DiPinto 941-323-0033

610 YARDARM LN

405 28TH STREET

109 WARBLER LN

$6,900,000.00 – Bayfront 1.06 Acres 5 Beds 5 Baths 6,000 Sq. Ft. Rooftop Terrace and Private Beach Contact: Tracey Stetler 941-266-9001

4136 HIGEL AVE

$4,699,000 – 1 House from the Bay 4 Beds 4 Baths 4,138 Sq. Ft. 130’ of Water Frontage Contact: Nicholle DiPinto 941-928-2922

$3,600,000 - Anna Maria Island 5 Beds 4 Baths 3,735 Sq. Ft. 80’ of Waterfront Contact: Steven Moore 401-767-7180

$11,750,000 – Under Construction 4 Beds 5 Baths 5,292 Sq. Ft. 125’ of Bird Key Bayfront Contact: Patrick DiPinto 941-323-0033

3621 SAN REMO TER

1212 CENTER PLACE

6489 GULFSIDE ROAD

$9,750,000 – Under Construction 5 Beds 7 Baths 5,328 Sq. Ft. 400’ Wide Bay Inlet Contact: Patrick DiPinto 941-323-0033

$6,995,000 – New Construction 5 Beds 6 Baths 4750 Sq. Ft. Rooftop Terrace and Private Beach Contact: Steven Moore 401-767-7180

$16,995,000 – Under Construction 4 Beds 5 Baths 6,614 Sq. Ft. 100’ of Beachfront Contact: Steven Moore 401-767-7180

941 - 388 - 2 0 2 1

53 S PALM AVENUE, SARASOTA, FL 34236

WWW.THEDIPINTOGROUP.COM | @THEDIPINTOGROUP

The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, country 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 without personal verification. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. 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 principals of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

425710-1

26

YourObserver.com

27

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

SUNRISE / SUNSET

FRIDAY, JULY 12

Sunrise Sunset

High: 88 Low: 80 Chance of rain: 49%

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.

WEATHER

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

FORECAST

Thursday, July 11

6:43a

8:28p

Friday, July 12

6:44a

8:28p

Saturday, July 13

6:44a

8:27p

Sunday, July 14

6:45a

8:27p

SATURDAY, JULY 13

Monday, July 15

6:45a

8:27p

High: 90 Low: 80 Chance of rain: 48%

Tuesday, July 16

6:46a

8:27p

Wednesday, July 17

6:46a

8:26p

MOON PHASES SUNDAY, JULY 14 High: 90 Low: 80 Chance of rain: 56%

July 13 First

July 21 Full

July 27 Last

August 4 New

TIDES Highs Lows

Patrick Bogert took this photo of a stunning sunset at the beach at Gulfside Road on Longboat Key.

Thursday,July 11

5:09a

4:09p

10:51a

11:39p

Friday, July 12

5:31a

5:10p

—

12:01p

Saturday, July 13

5:59a

6:24p

12:10a

1:16p

Sunday, July 14

6:32a

8:11p

12:39a

2:32p

Monday, July 15

7:09a

10:44p

1:04a

3:44p

Tuesday, July 16

7:50a

—

1:14a

4:49p

Wednesday, July 17

8:36a

—

—

5:46p

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

Daily crossword puzzles available at YourObserver.com/crossword

CROSSING THE LINE by Halle Amore Bauer, edited by Jeff Chen 128 Sauna sight

56 “Unfortunately”

129 Hideout

57 Star’s setting

130 Turquoise or topaz

61 Grow tired of

131 Spam containers

65 Lunch counter protest

132 Transgresses

66 After-tax savings op-

DOWN

tions, for short

Zealand 3 Prenatal test, briefly 4 Activity on a mat 5 ___ tag (high-tech activity) 6 Many times, in verse 7 Menu phrase 8 Throw on 9 Lentil stew sometimes served with naan 10 Oman’s peninsula 11 It doesn’t miss a beat 12 Where cruise ships cruise 13 Ominous tarot card 14 “Is this too risky for me?”

16 Contribute 18 Pinnacle 19 Spills the beans 23 Still a contender 25 Half a salad server 26 Baking powder amt. ©2024 Universal Uclick

ACROSS 1 “Possibly ...”

5 Laundry unit 9 Beaver’s creation 12 Bizarre 15 Polynesian nation 17 Above water 20 “___ we there yet?”

21 Green hue 22 *With 34-Across, how marathoners describe their

38 “Honest” prez

learn how to go the extra

103 “Party in the ___” (Miley

40 Bizarre

mile?

Cyrus hit)

41 Versatile utensil

73 Startle

104 Get into the pool?

44 Chaz, to Cher

76 Augusta Savage creation 105 *Physical therapy

45 Tres - dos

77 Start to “cycle”

appointment for post-race

46 Viper on the Nile

78 Poet Pound

marathoners?

49 *Pacing coach’s advice

82 Hummus or baba

109 Sauna site

to marathoners?

ghanoush

111 Slew

55 Prepares potatoes,

83 Sympathetic sounds

114 They get the picture

perhaps

85 Zilch

115 “2001: A Space Odyssey”

58 A, in geometry class?

86 Sweetheart

computer

87 Many August babies

116 All set

60 Actress de Armas

88 Ultimatum ender

119 Conflict that might

61 French seasoning

90 *High-five at the end of a result in escalating tariffs

62 Acorn producer

marathon?

121 *Recurring gags ... and

63 Remedy

94 Log splitter

a punny description of this

64 Water cooler?

95 Word after “new” or “old” puzzle’s theme

65 Food court pizza chain

97 Golfer’s standard

125 Id’s counterpart

67 Put on, as nail polish

98 Siberian sled dog

126 Hoppy brew, for short

69 *Where marathoners

99 Hairspray, for example

127 Vegan frankfurter

association with each other? 59 Sleep stage, for short 24 Barista’s flourish 27 Daughter of King Minos 28 Guardians’ org.

30 Victorian literary sisters 31 “Dios ___!”

32 Fury 34 *See 22-Across 36 Grab a bite

29 The only mammal that truly flies 33 Legal right that grants access to private land 34 Lease 35 “I will admit that” 36 Kindle, for instance 39 Feathery accessory 41 Total fraud 42 Trim (down) 43 Kiln, for one 47 Store 48 Burst of laughter 50 Moxie 51 Feature of both kindergarten and Congress 52 Parsley salad served with pita

metal and scram

“CWF ZVHF OMBBFOOXMU TVM SFC DO DL DHCAOC, CWF UFOO VX D LVHZDU UAXF TVM WDYF. AC’O D CHDNF-VXX.” OALSFH OVUDLSF GLVJUFO

70 Dec. 25 71 Cleaning product prefix 72 Heavy metal band?

73 Commotion 74 Turkish currency

“NFMJAFM, EM TEXR DZEJW CWGF MEJA,

75 Pinnacle

‘FYFXHCWF JM E TCCW, EWA VEM E AEXR

79 Hera’s husband

MJAF ZVJGV VF WFYFX MVCZM DC

80 It beats scissors but not paper

EWHNCAH.’”

81 Dry, as skin 84 Changes one’s locks?

89 Used for support 90 Admit, with “up” 91 Whirled 92 Is down with 93 BTW’s middle

“KJN KJEGDD YL SYK BSYOGSF OJXK’C FYGSF KY JXRRNS KEXGSNU AN KY ZN RENRXENU LYE XSPKJGSF.”

96 Loses it

XEGXSX FEXSUN

100 To be, in Normandy 101 ___Kosh B’Gosh 102 Untrustworthy sorts 104 [Suddenly!]

105 Where roads meet (Abbr.)

106 Rowed 107 Spitting ___ 108 Ijeoma who wrote “Be a

GEXSH MJTCW

Puzzle Three Clue: P equals Y

2 Official language of New

68 Put the pedal to the

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

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

Puzzle Two Clue: R equals K

1 Malcolm X’s religion

celebrity cipher

Puzzle One Clue: J equals W

crossword

Flooring Made for Your Family

426213-1

at MANASOTA FLOORING INC

© 2024 NEA, Inc.

sudoku

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

Revolution” 110 Notification sounds 111 LGBTQ activist George 112 One of five bodies on Earth 113 Egg containers 117 Slumber party attire, for short 118 Forecast extremes 120 Smash into 122 Home of the U.N. 123 Confidentiality doc 124 Lithium-___ battery

53 Silly 54 Salsa artist Anthony

©2024 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

7-11-24

Made for where you live. Here!

RED PAGES INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888

Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals

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

WEEKLY MONTHLY

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

Garage/ Moving/ Estate Sales

SEASONAL RATES

real estate

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.

ANTIQUE EXTRAVAGANZA

FOR RENT - High/Dry indoor boat slip. Up to 23’. Excellent boating location - S Longboat Key. Easy Gulf/Bay access.

Call 941-544-5597

Merchandise Wanted GOLD, SILVER BUYING w/ CASH. RETIRED INVESTOR Diamonds, Coins, Jewelry, Watches & Pocket Watches.

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

Boats

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

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

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

jobs Please email your resume and WPM typing speed for immediate consideration to kboothroyd@businessobserverfl. com. Please also specify your available date to start. *This position must be performed in the office. No remote work is available.

RED PAGES IN PRINT AND ONLINE

auto

BOAT FOR SALE- 1984 vintage Chris-Craft Catalina. 25’.

Best Offer.

914-548-5300

The ideal candidate will have strong computer software and hardware skills. Familiarity with Adobe InDesign and Filemaker Pro is a plus. Florida notary certification is also a plus.

Competitive pay, paid time off and health insurance available

2005 SAILBOAT Hunter 170 Perfect for Sarasota Bay - 17ft, open transom, single owner, stored on boat lift, includes custom cushions. $500 OBO (312) 342-9868

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.

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

Visa/MC 5360 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Suite 101 Longboat Key, FL 34228 Rental office 9a.m. - 5p.m.

M-F Ask about our special rates!

Since 1939 www.rentalsonlongboat.com

A POWERFUL COMBINATION 941-955-4888

YourObserver.com/RedPages

3BR/3BA BEACH FRONT Longboat Key Regent Place condo, located behind the gates of the Longboat Key Club. An impressive 3,564 interior sq. feet, and 733 sq feet of shaded balconies. Fronting on the Gulf of Mexico. Only 36 units in the community. Professionally redesigned and updated. 10-foot floor-to-ceilings windows open to wide, stunning views. Gourmet kitchen features top-of-the-line Thermador, Wolf, Miele appliances, Two designated under-building parking spots. Lots of storage. Call Faye Doyle or Kelly Gettel $4,935,000 (941) 504-7496 Floridamoves.com THE MEADOWS GOLF &CC Updated 2 br/2ba. 1 car garage, water view, vaulted ceilings, plantation shutters, fireplace, jacuzzi tub, turnkey furnished.

Excellent rental history. $499,900 Call 904-556-8900

SELL YOUR STUFF FAST!

GARAGE SALE

home services

Or Visit: AntiquesandChatchkes.com Estate Sales Conducted by: Antiques & Chatchkes

wagnerlbkrentals@gmail.com

Adult Care Services CAREGIVER - LICENSED CNA 6 years experience w/ dementia & other ailments.

4-12 hrs, 5 days/ week & some weekends. $25-$30/ hr.

Best care for your loved one.

References avail. Marina 786-906-8103

386-447-9723

CAREGIVER CERTIFIED Nursing Assistant. Over 15 years experience providing care of elderly patients including with Dementia and Alzheimer in facilities, hospitals and home. All current certification. Liability Insurance. (941) 225-0602

YourObserver.com/RedPages

DAHLIA HEALTHCARE

Advertise as low as $17.50 per week!

CALL

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

Call 941-383-3338.

Private Duty Concierge RN Here for all your healthcare needs.

Call Lori Wheeler, RN today.

941-806-8292

BUY & SELL HERE! YourObserver.com/RedPages

This week’s Crossword answers

Advertise your business or service in the Observer Advertise your business or service in the Observer

RED PAGES RED PAGES CALL TODAY 941-955-4888 CALL TODAY 941-955-4888 RED PAGES Auto Transport Advertise your business Advertise your business or service in the Observer

or service in the Observer

SHIP YOUR car, truck or SUV CALL TODAY anywhere in the United States.

941-955-4888 Great rates, fast quotes. Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

RED PAGES Painting CALL TODAY 941-955-4888

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

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

Honest & reliable.

Free estimates. 941-744-1020.

35+ years experience.

SARASOTA PAINTING, LLC INTERIOR / EXTERIOR / CABINETS WE ARE THE BEST!!!

Residential & Commercial.

Fully Insured.

CALL or TEXT Don 941-900-9398

Transportation TOP NOTCH TRANSPORTATION Airport Taxi Service Island to SRQ- $45 Island to Tampa- $90 Add XL- $20 Luxury cars • Over 8,000 trips Regular Hours • Never Late!

Doctors Appts. • All Rides on the Gulf Coast

941-718-9933

www.topnotchtransportation service.com

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “The more successful you get as an artist, the less of a normal life you have. It’s a trade-off.”

Singer Solange Knowles Puzzle Two Solution: “Besides, as Mark Twain once said, ‘Everyone is a moon, and has a dark side which he never shows to anybody.’”

Carly Simon Puzzle Three Solution: “The thrill of not knowing what’s going to happen trained me to be prepared for anything.”

Ariana Grande

This week’s Sudoku answers

©2024 Universal Uclick

©2024 NEA, Inc.

Boat Slips for Rent/Sale

For more information call Ken at: 941-356-3318

Reservations 941-383-5577

Condos/Apts. for Sale

THE BUSINESS OBSERVER newspaper is seeking a fast-paced, detail-oriented Proofreader / Typist for a part-time position in Sarasota, Florida.

Hours are 9am-2pm, Mon-Fri. Candidates must be able to type at least 75 WPM with great accuracy and proofread typed material and make corrections. Attention to detail is a MUST. Proofreading entails finding errors in the typed print that varies from the original document, not actually editing the documents for errors.

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

Houses or Condos

FOR LEASE: 1,750 Sq. ft. in Bradenton. Office or Medical. Call Frank 941-720-2199

Help Wanted

peekers’ place

stuff Items Under $200

Commercial Property for Rent

3723 2nd Dr. N.E., Bradenton, FL 34208

Amazing collection of antique sheet music, house full of beautiful antique furniture, beautiful sets of china & crystal, Lionel train collection, antique firearms, outstanding collection of wind up antique clocks, area rugs, twin beds, extensive collection of antique books, table lamps, antique Christmas ornaments, over 2,000 antique records, Victrolas, tall Case clock, record players, antique dining room set, tapestries, antique listed artist oil paintings, occasional room chairs, antique planters, antique pocket watches, antique fans, kitchen items & kitchenware, garage items, and lots of bric a brac.

Between

Wagner Realty

July 12th, 9 am to 5 pm July 13th, 9 am to 5 pm July 14th, 9 am to 3 pm

Numbers out at 8am

Beachfront, Bayfront and In

We’ll SWEEP you your feet!

We’ll SWEEP youoff off your feet!

We’ll SWEEP you off your We’ll SWEEP you off your feet!feet!

THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

YourObserver.com

29

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

Painting

KEENS HANDYMAN SERVICES

SARASOTA PAINTING, LLC

TEXT OR CALL 574-354-7772 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.

428315

INTERIOR RENOVATIONS & ANYTHING FROM THE GROUND UP

Interior / Exterior / Cabinets.

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 15 million dollars of assets over past 30 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

425487

Board Certified in the specialty of non-surgical spinal decompression

DR. DAVID CIFRA, DC

SELL YOUR CAR!

BLACK LABEL CAR SERVICE

428015

Luxury for Less

425493 425488

Contractor

941-248-4734

Let our Network Handle All your Building Needs

10% off

Windows

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

1/1

Serving Longboat Key Since 2005

Exclusively serving Longboat Key residents.

Storm-ready home preparations Handyman & concierge services

Res. | Com. | Lic. | Ins.

941-281-5539 | kathy@longboatkeyhomewatch.com

Insurance

MIC INSURANCE

Email Project Information: PCNestimating@gmail.com 941-527-9414 Trades welcome to join our network! Please send email

Doors

Sliding Glass Door Repair FIX IT - DON’T REPLACE IT

EXPERIENCE KNOWLEDGE SOLUTIONS

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

Open Your Doors Smoothly With Expertly Installed Rollers Call Nick 928-2263

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

FREE 50 OFF ESTIMATES

$

a $199 service.

425489

Home • Condo • Auto • Umbrella • Boat • Flood

GROW YOUR BUSINESS 428016

WITH THE RED PAGES

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

Formerly known as Sunrise Windows UP TO

150

25 $

STANDARD WINDOWS

INCLUDING SCREENS, TR ACKS, MIRRORS & FANS

SPECIAL 00 5

$

senior citizen discount. www.sunsetwindowcleaningsrq.com

PURIFIED WATER WINDOW CLEANING AVAIL ABLE!!

Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES 941- 284 - 5880

425494

427913

CALL TODAY FOR PEACE OF MIND.

426471

Construction Estimating • Custom Homes Design Build • Restaurants-New/Remodels Office Remodels • Financing

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

CARING HANDS WHILE YOU’RE AWAY FROM HOME.

Professional Contractors Network, Inc.

chrome_qrcode_1671726737617.png

Transportation

Home Watch

5-Star Rated

Call to reserve your ad space: 941-955-4888

1/10/23, 10:25 AM

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

WE COME TO YOU

proslidingglassdoorrepair.com

Licensed & Insured CCC - 058059 CBC - 1253936

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.com

FAST • EASY • SAFE

HoHoBuysCars.com

941-626-3194

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

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

426470

Divorce without Lawyers

Handyman

425491

Attorney

NEED HELP?

Find business and service professionals in the Red Pages.

To advertise: 941-955-4888

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!

CALL 941-955-4888 YourObserver.com/RedPages

425490

Sandra Smith | 941.383.3388

30

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

545 SANCTUARY DRIVE #B-806

$2,195,000

Perched on the eighth floor of Building III in a tranquil south corner location, this sun-drenched 3BR, 2,400 SF Sanctuary residence offers breathtaking panoramic views of Sarasota Bay and downtown’s skyline through newly installed (2023) impact glass sliders and windows. Includes secure parking, storage and first-rate community amenities! www.545Sanctuaryb806.com

MORE THAN $180 MILLION PENDING AND SOLD SINCE JANUARY 2024

6603 GULFSIDE ROAD

$15,000,000

500 HARBOR POINT ROAD

$7,999,000

6923 WESTCHESTER CIRCLE

$4,695,000

1300 BEN FRANKLIN DRIVE #504

$4,495,000

201 NORTH WASHINGTON DRIVE

$4,495,000

7180 MANASOTA KEY ROAD

$3,595,000

3464 MISTLETOE LANE

$3,500,000

601 LOTUS LANE

$3,495,000

3825 SARASOTA GOLF CLUB BLVD

$1,799,000

380 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #513

$1,695,000

3060 GRAND BAY BOULEVARD #152

$1,395,000

251 COSMOPOLITAN COURT

$925,000

4305 MARINA VIEW WAY

$1,695,000

4317 MARINA VIEW WAY

$1,495,000

4322 MARINA VIEW WAY

$1,245,000

This a brand-new, direct Gulf-front masterpiece, set on over 1/4-acre and crafted by Vertical Design Build, still in the beginning stages so there is plenty of time to make your personal selections! www.6603GulfsideRoad.com

Experience luxurious beachfront living on Lido Key. This 3BR +den & office residence offers the opulence of a Ritz-Carlton managed property while exuding the charm and privacy of a single-family home, with 3,500+ SF and 2 parking spaces. www.BeachResidences504.com

This JUST RENOVATED (in 2024) 4BR direct bayfront residence comes completely furnished, and move-in ready, with brand-new windows, chef’s kitchen, new dock/lift. www.3464MistletoeLane.com

Nestled within a secure gated community, this brandnew 3BR home is where contemporary coastal living blends effortlessly with luxury and sustainability. www.HuntersPointFL.com

Discover the luxury of new construction just a short sunny walk from St. Armands! This brand-new 4BR, 3,400 SF John Cannon residence is waiting for you to make your own personal selections. www.201NorthWashington.com

Escape to paradise at this 3BR + office residence. Exuding quality, with gated entry, outdoor entertaining that blends effortlessly with the chic interior, plus dock and lift. www.601LotusLane.com

This 3BR bayfront Biscayne residence offers breathtaking views of the verdant Harbourside Golf Course, the serene waters of Sarasota Bay and the Gulf. www.GrandBay152.com

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

This exquisite 5BR Arthur Rutenberg home is on nearly 1/2acre of Lakewood Ranch lakefront property. Offering 6,600 SF inside, with luxurious finishes, contemporary upgrades, and resort-style outdoor areas. www.6923Westchester.com

This elevated 4BR Key West-style, direct Gulf-front home with guest cottage spans 3,200+ SF and has undergone an extensive renovation inside and out, creating an extraordinary beach experience. www.7180ManasotaKey.com

Five lush acres to design your own home in East Sarasota! Located amongst oversized luxury estates, this property offers many possibilities! www.3825SarasotaGolfClub.com

Contemporary walkable downtown living is yours to enjoy at this impeccably designed 1,700 SF townhome in the heart of Sarasota’s bustling city center. www.251CosmopolitanCourt.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

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. 417317-1

H U N TE RS P OI N T

Beautiful direct bay views welcome you to this 3BR residence on south Longboat Key. Offering nearly 3,400 SF, 2-car garage, and private courtyard entry. www.TangerineBayClub513.com

Boasting 4BR and nearly 7,000 SF of meticulously updated interior and exterior, this Bay Isles Harbor boater’s sanctuary offers many bonuses including 4-car garage with golf simulator, new (2022) dock and lift. www.500HarborPoint.com