Longboat Observer 7.25.24

LONGBOAT

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Fit for life

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Longboat Key’s weekly newspaper since 1978

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

FREE • THURSDAY, JULY 25, 2024

VOLUME 46, NO. 49

YOUR TOWN

Fewer visitors, same impact?

The number of tourists may have dipped, but spending stayed strong. SEE PAGE 3

Courtesy image

Cindy and Jeff Ray

Community eats

Christ Church of Longboat Key enjoyed its second fellowship lunch of the summer on July 18. The week’s stop on the tour of Cortez Road restaurants was Swordfish Grill.

The Rev. Julia Piermont said these lunches are a way to show people that they are a year-round church. Even when attendance at most events on the island is low, she hopes these lunches will encourage people to find community at Christ Church.

Its first fellowship lunch was at Slicker’s Eatery this past month. Along with building fellowship, Piermont hopes the lunches are a way for residents to support local businesses and discover new favorite restaurants.

Thirty-three congregants attended the lunch to catch up with friends.

Key loses storied raconteur Harold Ronson’s one-of-akind tales inspired all who found themselves in his orbit. SEE PAGE 10

Courtesy image

Story time

For families that stayed on Longboat Key over the summer — or those visiting — the Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources Department will host one more Pop-up: Longboat Key Summer Story Time.

On Wednesday, Aug. 7, the county’s Pop-up Library will head to the Bayfront Park Recreation Center for story time from 10:30-11:30 a.m. According to the county’s event website, there will be stories, songs and crafts for children 5 and younger.

The Pop-up Library will also continue to visit the Longboat Key Town Hall parking lot on the first and third Tuesdays of the month starting at 10 a.m.

For more information about the event or Sarasota County libraries, visit ­Sarasota­CountyLibraries.org or call 941-861-1110.

File image

Noted philanthropist and storyteller Harold Ronson, honored as grand marshal of the Longboat Key Veterans Day parade in 2016, has died at age 98.

Vertical habitat growth An area collaboration creates more real estate for marine life at Longboat Key’s Bayfront Park.

PAGE 2

Turtle tracks LONGBOAT July 14-July 20 2024 Nests 39 False crawls 35

2023 50 77

Totals since April 21 2024 2023 Nests 1,213 963 False crawls 1,790 1,268 Source: Mote Marine Laboratory

Carter Weinhofer

A vertical oyster garden after a couple of months in the water.

A+E

Art on the road PAGE 12

2

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 25, 2024

Roadmap revision Town receives state approval for updated comp plan, which guides the community’s vision.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER Carter Weinhofer

Beverly Pillot holds an existing vertical oyster garden from Bayfront Park.

Carter Weinhofer

The Planning & Zoning Board — along with staff from the Planning, Zoning and Building Department — then would take the revisions in a series of batches for commission approval. After the entire comprehensive plan went through revisions, the town submitted the new plan to the Florida Department of Commerce.

With this revision, Lapovsky said the board spent significant time talking about climate issues and how things like sea level rise would impact future land use.

Keeping comprehensive plans up to date is important to maintain a community’s vision. Conversations around climate change and sea level rise only started to become prominent in this latest revision, according to Lapovsky.

A comprehensive plan also provides guidance on development, which expresses, for example, that the Longboat Key community is against high-rise developments along Gulf of Mexico Drive, according to Lapovsky.

Any future site development plans on the island look at the town’s comprehensive plan to make sure the site will comply with the town’s vision.

“It’s the roadmap, really, the guiding principles of what we want our community to be in terms of the decisions that we make that affect the health, safety, appearance, mobility (transportation) of our community,” Lapovsky said.

A comprehensive plan sets the guidelines for a local municipality on future land use, mobility, infrastructure, recreation and more.

Underwater real estate Oyster gardens at Bayfront Park provide homes for marine life.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

U

nder the docks at Bayfront Park, 40 vertical oyster gardens recently became new real estate for marine organisms.

On July 19, residents of The Summit of Lakewood Ranch — a senior assisted living community — joined Oyster Boys Conservation at Longboat Key’s Bayfront Park to watch the installation of vertical oyster gardens that some of the residents helped build.

Oyster Boys Conservation previously installed 40 VOGs at Bayfront Park in partnership with the town of Longboat Key and the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program. The town’s contribution to the newest installation of VOGs was $500.

The SBEP also contributed to the VOG installation at Bayfront Park, which is a part of the organization’s commitment of $10,000 for VOG installations and community workshops in the area, according to Oyster Boys Conservation President Dom Marino.

VOGs are made by drilling holes into the center of recycled oyster shells that often come from local

restaurants. Twenty oyster shells are strung onto a piece of rope, which is then mounted to a board. There are 10 strands per board, which then get installed on the bottom of a dock so the VOGs can hang into the water.

According to the SBEP, many shorelines in Sarasota Bay are lined with seawalls, which reduces the amount of available habitat for filter feeders. The old oyster shells become available space for marine organisms such as mussels, barnacles, sea anemones and juvenile oysters.

Oysters are also important filter feeders and filter water while consuming microscopic phytoplankton. According to many sources, one adult oyster can filter as much as 50 gallons of water a day.

Once the recycled oyster shells are collected and drilled, creating the suspended VOGs is as simple as threading rope through the oysters.

That’s where residents at The Summit of Lakewood Ranch come in, to help make the VOGs. Dom Marino formerly worked at The Summit and started this partnership. Dom’s brother Vince Marino, co-director of field operations for Oyster Boys, also said the partnership is personal. The brothers’ grandmother was in a similar facility, so they understand how events like this can have a positive impact on residents.

427501-1

A

fter more than two years of work, the town of Longboat Key received the official stamp of approval on a complete revision of its comprehensive plan.

The notification from the Florida Department of Commerce came on July 18 via email to town staff that the new comprehensive plan was in compliance. In Florida, the Department of Commerce requires a local government to update its comprehensive plan at least every seven years.

Planning & Zoning Board Chair David Lapovsky recently started his second term and is in his fifth year on the board. He also recently took over as chair in May after the former chair, David Green, decided to relocate from Longboat Key. Lapovsky gave credit to his predecessor.

“Let me first say, David Green, whom I replaced, did a masterful job of shepherding this through board review, and the staff did an unbelievable job of keeping a very complicated process on track,” Lapovsky said.

A comprehensive plan sets the guidelines for a local municipality for things like future land use, mobility, infrastructure and recreation. Housing is also a major aspect, but one that was straightforward since Longboat Key is mostly built out already, Lapovsky said.

The Planning & Zoning Board focused on one or two areas at a time through a series of workshops, according to Lapovsky.

For each of the areas, the board worked through a process that identified goals, objectives, priorities and strategies that served as a framework for the revisions.

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 25, 2024

STEADY AS THEY VISIT

Courtesy images

Although Manatee and Sarasota counties report dips in visitor numbers this season, the economic impact of tourism holds strong.

same time last fiscal year. Some tourism representatives from both counties speculate this could represent a normalization of the tourism industry after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Manatee County’s data covers October through April, while Sarasota County’s data runs from October through March. When making annual comparisons, the counties look at this year’s data compared to the same period in the last fiscal year.

At a June 10 meeting of the Manatee Tourist Development Council, Director of Quantitative Research, Research Data Services Anne Wittine presented the tourism data along with an analysis.

There was about a 3.3% decline in visitors for Manatee County this year. In total, 625,600 visitors were reported from October 2023 to April 2024, whereas there were 647,200 visitors last year from October 2022 through April 2023.

Despite a slight decrease in visitors, the economic impact from those visitors stayed about the same, with a 0.3% increase from $1,136,917,600 to $1,140,027,800.

According to statistics from Visit Sarasota County, Sarasota County experienced similar trends.

Sarasota County reported a 9% decline in visitors, from 727,100

MANATEE CO. TOURISM FYTD

VISITORS ECONOMIC IMPACT

2024

625,600

$1,140,027,800

2023

647,200

$1,136,917,600

2022

624,800

$1,043,911,200

2021

513,900

$772,465,300

2020

400,100

$620,185,900

2019

455,100

$702,585,700

Manatee County visitor numbers according to The Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.

KEY ATTRACTIONS

In fiscal year 2023, Longboat Key represented 8.5% of Manatee Coun-

59.2%

— Kim Verreault

EUROPEAN $246.88 59.2%

REVENUE $146 $246.88 .24

from FY23 from FY23

VISITORS

$260.62 RATE RATE

fromfrom FY23FY23

RATE

RATE RATE

$198.33 RATE ROOM

18.8%

↑ 6.6% 18.8%

13.3% ↑ 6.6%

59.2%

59.2%

$246.88 77.9%

f

$3

AVER

59.2% RATE

77.9% RATE RATE

↑ 6.6% 5.4%

↑

$146.24 $302.96

$2

18.8%

$246.88 77.9%

RATE

$246.88 RATE RATE

$302.96 ROOM RATE

18.8%

↑ 6.6% 5.4% FROM FY23

UP 6.6%

3.7% 13.3% ↑UP3.7% FROM FY23

from FY23

R

PER ROOM

REVENUE PERDAILY DAILY AVERAGE OCCUPANCY OCCUPANCY That’s $3,750,025 out of the totalAVERAGE $49,996,721, according to the FY23 UP 12.3% Sarasota County Tourist DevelopFROM 2023 ment Tax annual report.

DOWN 5.3% President and CEO of LongFROM 2023 boat Key Chamber of Commerce fromfrom FY23FY23 fromfrom FY23FY23 Kim Verreault said, from speakfrom FY23 ing with local businesses, that the last months of 2023 seemed to be quieter than usual, but it was still a SARASOTA COUNTY strong season. Verreault also said the chamber would work on advertising Quarterly Snapshot specifically for that time next year to support Longboat’s local businesses.

Jan.-March Oct.-Dec. According to Verreault, the LongFY24 FY24 boat Key Chamber of Commerce utilizes funds from the BACVB every year for in- and out-of-state advertising to draw and retain tourists to the island.

For example, she said the most recent advertisement focused on attracting Florida families with children who may currently be on summer vacation.

When visitors come to Longboat OCCUPANCY OCCUPANCY Key and turn to the chamber for RATE RATE recommendations, Verreault said OCCUPANCY AVERAGE DAILY OCCUPANCY attractions either on the island or close by are popular for tourists.

Off the island, Longboat Key visitors enjoy amenities like Mote DOWN 18.8% DOWN 5.4% Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, arts FROM FY23 FROM FY23 from FY23 fromfrom FY23FY23 and entertainment in Sarasota and St. Armands Circle.

Tourists also frequently ask about kayaking opportunities, boat tours and recommendations for Longboat Key beaches and local parks.

Asked what some of the main attractions to Longboat Key are, Verreault said the natural beauty ranks highly.

AVERAGE AVERAGE “Definitely the beauty and tranDAILY RATE DAILY RATE quility of our beaches,” Verreault said.

REVENUE AVERAGE DAILY AVERAGE DAILYPER OCCUPANCY OCCUPANCY “I think that people who are coming to us are looking for an opportunity to truly relax and unwind. Many are looking to escape colder weather.”

↑

mained roughly the same from the

DOWN 1.9% ↑ 2023 6.6% ↑ 3.7% FROM

DOWN 3.4%

18.8% 5.4% FROM 2023

↑

while the economic impact re-

“I think that people who are coming to us are looking for an opportunity to truly relax and unwind.

Many are looking to escape colder weather.”

76.1% RATE RATE

fromfrom FY23FY23

↑

decline in the number of visitors,

REV

from from FY23FY23

f

REV

R

↑

Both counties reported a slight

AVERAGE DAILY AVERAGE DAILY

↑

for Manatee and Sarasota counties.

$2

DAILY RATE

↑

that doesn’t mean it was a bad year

AVERAGE $246.88 $302.96

59.2% 77.9%

↑

won’t break any records,

↑

season’s tourism numbers

ty’s tourist development tax. There were about 83,000 commercial lodging visitors on Longboat Key’s Manatee County side, which made up 8% of the county’s entire overnight commercial lodging visitation for the fiscal year, according to data from the BACVB. Similarly, Longboat Key was OCCUPANCY responsible for 7.5% of the tourist RATE development tax collected by SaraOCCUPANCY OCCUPANCY sota County.

↑

E

ven though this past

(October 2022 through March 2023) to 657,180 (October 2023 through March 2024).

This resulted in about a 1.45% decrease in economic impact during those periods, from $1,556,387,100 to $1,533,771,100.

Representatives from the Manatee Tourist Development Council praised the county’s efforts in maintaining visitor numbers given recent economic pressures.

“Flat is good,” said Elliott Falcione, director of the Manatee County Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Like (Wittine) said, we’re coming out of extreme pent-up demand, domestic, so flat is good. … We’re not trying to break records every year, I can promise you that. We want to bring in quality visitors that have the wherewithal to afford the assets that are in Manatee County.”

The pent-up demand that Falcione referenced was experienced coming out of the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Compared with 2019, Manatee County has experienced a 37.5% increase in visitors and a 62.3% increase in economic impact during the period from October through April.

The flattening of tourism numbers began to show last year when the counties reported a dip in the number of tourists in 2023 after a surge in 2021 and 2022.

Visit Sarasota County President and CEO Erin Duggan spoke with Sarasota County commissioners on July 9 about the changes in tourism data that represent a cooler period.

“We went through a few phenomenal years with the pandemic, when Florida was open and other places around the country and the world were not,” Duggan told commissioners. “We do know, some of that success was just unsustainable.”

Manatee County also experienced an increase in visitors from overseas, an area that The Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (BACVB) was attempting to target, said representatives at the June 10 meeting.

From last year to this year, the BACVB reported a 12.3% increase in European visitors.

“We’re finally starting to see that number growing,” Wittine said.

“We’re still not quite back to where we were in 2019, but we are starting to see recovery there.”

Manatee County Commissioner and Chair of the Tourist Development Council Ray Turner said the BACVB’s efforts in attracting more overseas visitors helped keep the economic impact strong this year.

“Flat is good in this environment right now,” Turner said. “I think the only reason we’re flat is probably because of your efforts in Europe because that’s a pretty big increase … seeing the numbers run pretty much flat right now is quite extraordinary.”

April 2024 Snapshot

↑ ↑

STAFF WRITER

TOURISM BY THE NUMBERS: MANATEE COUNTY

↑

CARTER WEINHOFER

3

f

4

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 25, 2024

Education takes flight at SOS Director of Outreach and Avian Care says learning ramp-up will start at the end of summer.

WHAT IS IMPRINTING? When birds are young, they imprint on adult birds during a period of development. This is important for a bird’s survival and how they identify with their species. If juvenile birds spend this development period around humans, they will identify with humans for life, and imprinting is irreversible, according to the Wildlife Center of Virginia. Imprinted birds are unable to be released into the wild because of how different their adaptations and interactions would be.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

S

ave Our Seabirds wants to have a bigger footprint on environmental education, and Director of Outreach and Avian Care Sarah Rubin is looking to create those opportunities.

Starting in August, new educational programs for all ages will begin popping up at Save Our Seabirds, and Rubin said she hopes these lead to more opportunities down the road.

“I really would like for (the opportunities) to grow,” Rubin said. “We really would like for kids to be encouraged to come in.”

Rubin started at Save Our Seabirds about a year and a half ago. She said the campus didn’t have much of an education program before she started. With her background in environmental education, she began developing programs for school-aged children.

On Aug. 3, a night hike from 6:309 p.m. will kick off a week of backto-school events. The night hike — which requires pre-registration for $20 — will be for ages 7 and up. Participants will be led on a hike of the nearby mangrove trail with nightvision goggles. After the hike, participants will observe some owls and night herons at Save Our Seabirds.

Kids can then learn what it’s like to be an owl biologist with a staged owl banding using plush owls. Banding is a method of tagging birds with small metal or plastic tags for identification.

“It’s actually really cute; the kids have to go into the nets and grab the owls, band them and measure them,” Rubin said.

She is working on planning a week of free family activities for the week

Petra Rivera

Nate Kettler answers questions about a bird at Save Our Seabirds.

LEARN MORE

For more information or to sign up for Save Our Seabirds’ events, visit SaveOurSeabirds. org/Events.

following the night hike and said those events will be posted on Save Our Seabirds’ social media.

Another event scheduled for that week is an owl pellet dissection. An owl pellet is the bird’s fecal matter, which can contain bones from other birds, rodents, snakes and crawfish.

Owl pellets serve as a record of what the bird ate and can be used by scientists to learn more about the surrounding ecosystem, according to Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

That event is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Aug. 6 for roughly an hour. Rubin said staff will also talk to participants

about owl biology, then dissect the pellet using tools and match up the found bones. The cost is $5 per person.

Rubin also hopes to kick off an entirely new type of event for Save Our Seabirds — a vulture-themed party featuring Cupid the black vulture.

She’s still working on finalizing the details, but, for a price to be determined, people can book a party window for two hours and utilize the outdoor space under the staff offices at the SOS campus. At the party, participants will get vulture-themed crafts, a private mini tour and an appearance by Cupid the black vulture.

“That’s brand new; we’ve never had anything like that,” Rubin said about the vulture parties.

Cupid is one of Save Our Seabirds’ newer ambassador birds and imprinted on humans from an early

age. Due to the imprint, Cupid is more used to humans than most of the other birds at Save Our Seabirds, according to Rubin.

FIELD TRIP FUN

On top of these new education programs, Rubin is working on increasing opportunities for local schools through a platform called ­EdExploreSRQ. “For school programs, we’re introducing a lot of science-standardbased lessons,” Rubin said.

Through the EdExploreSRQ website, Rubin said teachers can now find curriculum-based field trips at Save Our Seabirds. Rubin can cater these programs to any age group to include STEM activities.

Field trips at Save Our Seabirds are limited to outdoor activities because the campus doesn’t yet have a large indoor space, but the schools would be given a tour followed by classes

designed to meet the curriculum standards for the age group, according to Rubin.

Examples of activities could include building a nest to see if it can support the weight of real eggs and something Rubin called “adaptation artistry,” where students would work together to build their own birds and talk through the necessary adaptations included for the imagined species.

The field trips currently listed for Save Our Seabirds on ­EdExploreSRQ are $10 per student and adult, but one chaperone per 10 students is free.

Rubin said Save Our Seabirds also offers discounts for Title 1 schools in the area that would want to utilize these programs.

For Rubin, the most valuable takeaway from the programs is when students and participants come back and say they are more interested in bird conservation or are more mindful of pollution because they now know how much it impacts birds.

“I love the way it changes a person’s outlook on animals and conservation,” Rubin said. “That’s what does it for me, that’s what makes it all worthwhile.”

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 25, 2024

Numbers on the beat Longboat PD chief attributes increase in service calls to full staff and training.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

A

fully staffed department and continuous training allowed the Longboat Key Police Department to stay on top of this year’s busy season, which led to increases in total service calls, traffic warnings and misdemeanor arrests, said Chief of Police George Turner.

From fiscal year 2023 to fiscal year 2024 year-to-date, data from each quarter shows ups and downs across the board, with some increases that Turner said aren’t cause for concern.

“We’ve been busy,” Turner said.

“But the rest (of the stats) you see, they’re up and down. They’re all well within the normal range.”

The statistics are grouped by the town’s fiscal year quarters: Quarter 1: October to December Quarter 2: January to March Quarter 3: April to June Quarter 4: July to September Since Q4 is not yet over, the data is not included in this report.

One of the largest increases was in total service calls, which in Q3 rose from 4,135 total service calls in FY23 to 6,468 total service calls for that same period in FY24.

“Calls for service are generated by dispatch and also activity of the officers,” Turner said. “And when we’re fully staffed, that’s probably a lot of the reasons for any changes.”

The department was fully staffed in Q3, according to Turner. But since then, three full-time officers left the department. Turner said he is in the

process of filling those vacancies to bring the department back to full capacity at 23 full-time employees.

Turner also said the increase in service calls could be attributed to the public’s comfort in calling the police for assistance because of the department’s ongoing public outreach efforts.

Traffic warnings also showed an increase in all three quarters from FY23 to FY24. In Q2, traffic warnings rose from 390 in FY23 to 965 in FY24.

The following quarter, the warnings increased from 660 in FY23 to 1,222 in FY24.

Turner said his officers give out a lot of traffic warnings from hits on the license plate readers located on both ends of the island and at midKey. Those cameras can pick up violations like a suspended driver’s license, expired registration and more serious cases, such as active warrants.

Sometimes, drivers are unaware of the minor violations. If the driver isn’t aware, Turner said his officers will likely write a warning.

“If it’s not something that’s a moving violation, they’ll just give warning and not tickets,” Turner said. “It’s more of an educational opportunity for us.”

A moving violation would be things like speeding or failing to stop for pedestrians, according to Turner.

In those instances, a ticket would likely be given.

“We’ve been busy. But the rest (of the stats) you see, they’re up and down.

They’re all well within the normal range.”

— George Turner, chief of police

One of the biggest increases for the Longboat Key Police was in total service calls, which in Q3 rose from 4,135 total service calls in FY23 to 6,468.

File Image

TOP SERVICE CALLS Fiscal Year

2023 2024 2023 2024 2023 2024 Q1 Q1 Q2 Q2 Q3 Q3 5 3 8 8 16 5 Felony Arrests Misdemeanor Arrests 77 43 57 97 73 79 Traffic Tickets 267 441 421 520 403 635 Traffic Warnings 458 599 390 965 660 1,222 Parking Tickets 67 74 62 53 155 218 10 34 27 17 45 29 Parking Warnings Accidents with injuries 2 2 7 3 3 1 13 23 39 16 23 Accidents without injuries 23 Total Service Calls 3,650 4,562 3,841 4,552 4,135 6,468

Again, Turner said having more officers on patrol due to being fully staffed attributed to the increase in warnings.

Misdemeanor arrests fluctuated across the quarters, first with a decrease in Q1 from 77 in FY23 to 43 in FY24.

In Q2 of FY23, there were 57 misdemeanor arrests, which increased to 97 in Q2 of FY24. Then, in Q3, a slight increase from 73 in FY23 to 79 in FY24.

Examples of misdemeanors could be driving with a suspended license, speeding, failing to obey traffic signs, or things like possession of drugs, trespassing and simple battery.

For the less-serious instances, like minor traffic violations, Turner said the officers will typically process those arrests in the field. This means the offender would be given a notice to appear in court at a later date.

“The majority of those, we’d rath-

er issue notices to appear rather than taking people to jail,” Turner said.

Turner said one of the reasons behind this is that many of the local jails are crowded, and taking offenders to a county jail would take an officer off patrol for an extended time.

If the violation is severe enough and requires the offender to be taken to jail, the officers will do so.

CONTINUOUS OFFICER TRAINING

This upcoming fiscal year, the department won’t be gaining any additional manpower beyond the 23 full-time employees Turner needs to be fully staffed. In his requests for FY25, Turner included three new officers, but Town Manager Howard Tipton’s recommended budget did not include those positions.

However, Turner said the officers he does have are busy staying up to date on the latest policies following the department’s accreditation.

On Feb. 22, the Longboat Key Police Department became accredited by the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation for the first time in the department’s history.

As an accredited law enforcement agency, the department is held to a higher standard through a variety of requirements. There were a total of 235 metrics that the department needed to address in its accreditation, which touched on things like officer safety and training.

“Laws change, which means policies have to change and be updated almost daily,” Turner said. “Our training requirements change.”

Turner said that the captains, sergeants and accreditation managers keep officers on top of training, as well as law and policy changes.

Reviewing all of those changes means more training hours.

“Our training has definitely increased a lot,” Turner said. “We have to maintain that level of competence for every officer here.”

Keeping officers on top of training and already looking toward reaccreditation in three years, the department is remaining diligent while patrolling Longboat Key. While there are increases in some incidents — like total service calls and traffic warnings — Turner said it’s not cause for alarm.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 25, 2024

COPS CORNER

Mar Vista sold Chiles Hospitality sells the LBK hotspot and two other beachfront restaurants.

MARK GORDON BUSINESS OBSERVER

L

ongtime Manatee County restaurant owner Ed Chiles has sold his three beachfront restaurants and other components of Chiles Hospitality, a company he founded 45 years ago.

The new owner of the portfolio — it includes Sandbar Seafood & Spirits, Beach House Waterfront Restaurant and Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub, all in Manatee County — is Beachside Hospitality, a Pinellas County restaurant group that oversees 13 restaurants in eight Florida cities. Beachside, according to a statement, also acquired Anna Maria Bake House and Chiles Hospitality’s events department.

Financial terms of the acquisition, scheduled to close July 29, weren’t disclosed.

Colliers International is representing Chiles Hospitality.

Chiles Hospitality’s 350 restaurant employees have been asked to continue in their current roles, the release states, “as Beachside Hospitality intends to keep the businesses open and operating as usual.”

Ed Chiles, meanwhile, son of former Florida Democratic Gov. Lawton Chiles, isn’t totally getting out of the business. He will continue to operate Gamble Creek Farms, a 26-acre, organic-certified farm in Parrish that sells to restaurants and wholesale through a farm market.

He will also continue to promote the sustainable projects and environmental causes he’s passionate about, the release states. That, and he intends to spend more time with his family and new grandson.

“This has been a difficult decision, but I know it’s time for me to move on,” Chiles said in the release.

“I am passing the torch to new owners who understand the value of our

LAUNDRY LEFT TOO LONG 8:05 p.m., 5000 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Disturbance: Dispatch sent Longboat Key officers to investigate a disturbance call, which was reported as a man at a local resort repeatedly knocking on a room’s door. The call came in because only children were inside the unit and they were scared. Upon arrival at the scene, an officer spoke with the man. He said the people staying in this unit left clothes in the washing machine, and he needed to do his laundry.

After the officer advised the man there were only children in the unit and they called 911, he apologized and an officer spoke with the oldest child to reassure the children that everything was OK.

SATURDAY, JULY 13

File image

e­ mployees and who will carry on the legacy that our team has built together. I leave knowing that the work our team has done together is one of the greatest experiences of my life, and we have made a measurable and positive impact in our community.”

Beachside Hospitality Group has more than 20 years of experience in the restaurant business, the release states. This will be its first venture in Manatee County.

It operates six restaurants on the east coast of Florida, from St. John’s to St. Lucie counties, according to its website.

It owns another six in Pinellas, including Crabby’s Bar & Grill and Crabby’s Hideaway in Clearwater and Crabby’s on The Pass on Treasure Island. It also owns The Salty Crab Bar & Grill in Fort Myers Beach.

Chiles founded the company in 1979 with the purchase of the historic Sandbar restaurant in Anna Maria.

Mar Vista came next, in 1989, when Chiles Hospitality bought that property, one of the longest-standing structures in Longboat Key. The Beach House Waterfront Restaurant, on 650 feet of gulf front beach, was acquired in 1993. Anna Maria Bake House was established in 2018 as a scratch-artisan bakery within Beach House.

FRIDAY, JULY 12

WATCH OUT FOR WOOD CHIPS 1:54 p.m., 1600 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Officer Public Service: A citizen called the police concerned that birds would eat wood chips left behind by a seawall construction company.

At the scene, an officer spoke with a construction superintendent who said he instructed the crew to rake the wood chips the previous day and had checked to make sure there were no wood chips left. The complainant did not wish to be contacted further, and the case was closed.

Diners enjoy an al fresco experience at Mar Vista dining at waterside tables.

MONDAY, JULY 15

CEILING CAT 11:21 p.m., 600 block of Russell Street Officer Public Service: A Longboat Key officer met with the daughter of the caller, who said her cat was stuck in the newly constructed back porch ceiling. The officer located the cat in a small crack in the ceiling as it was sticking a paw out to try to free itself.

Over the phone, the homeowners gave the officer permission to remove a small section of the ceiling. The officer freed the cat from the ceiling and the case was closed.

TUESDAY, JULY 16

CROSSING THE (PROPERTY) LINE 12:21 p.m., 500 block of Yawl Lane Officer Public Service: A resident called for police assistance because she claimed her neighbor docked a

MONDAY, JULY 15

SWERVE, DON’T DUCK 1:45 p.m., 400 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Animal Problem: An officer was dispatched to assist a caller who said he struck a duck while driving on GMD. The caller said he pulled over and was waiting by the animal while waiting for help to arrive. Sarasota County Animal Control and Save Our Seabirds arrived on scene to take over.

boat too close to her property line.

The responding officer spoke with the neighbor, who said they had already moved the boat back from the property line.

SHARK INVESTIGATION 1:14 p.m., 100 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Animal Problem: Dispatch asked Longboat Key PD to assist Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium and marine patrol officers with a dead bull shark that washed ashore. The responding officer met with personnel from Mote and LBKPD marine patrol. According to the report, the shark was found with a hook in its mouth and was believed to have been caught by a fisherman who cut the line. Marine patrol officers towed the dead shark out to the Gulf of Mexico.

THURSDAY, JULY 18

CYBERSECURITY ADVICE 2:06 p.m., 2000 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Suspicious Incident: A resident called for help with a possible text message scam. An officer met with the caller, who said she received a message from an unknown number advising her that a package arrived at a warehouse for her but could not be delivered. The text also included a link for her to click on, but she said she had not yet clicked on the link.

The officer said this seemed like a common scam text and she should delete the message.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 25, 2024

OPINION / OUR VIEW

LONGBOAT

Source of Manatee’s strife The Manatee County Commission primary races are not elections between liberal and conservative. They are about whether to eliminate antagonizing behavior.

MATT WALSH

P

eople do not like strife — in their families, with friends, in the communities in which they live. There is enough misery in the world. No one wants to be around people who create or whose narcissism fuels strife.

That is what the Manatee County Commission Republican primary election appears to be about — whether to eliminate the source of the strife that has fueled division and made the Manatee County Commission the leading dysfunctional public body in the region.

The four County Commission races are not elections between liberal and conservative or a fight over socialist or free-market agendas — in spite of the claptrap Manatee voters hear and see on TV ads and in election mailers.

For goodness sakes, as we have pointed out before, Manatee is one of the most conservative and Republican counties in Florida.

Republicans outnumber Democrats nearly two-to-one. The primary is not about left vs. right.

Nevertheless, over the past four years, Manatee voters have watched and endured one commissioner whose antagonistic, disrespecting behavior has tarnished the commission and has hurt the community.

Voters know who that is: Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge.

His behavior has crossed the line of proper public-service decorum to the point it has created the perception and believed reality that five of the six other sitting commissioners — with the exception of Van Ostenbridge’s opponent, George Kruse — are merely stooges and puppets for Van Ostenbridge and two noncommissioners, political consultant Anthony Pedicini and Manatee homebuilder Carlos Beruff.

There is good reason for that perception and belief. Beruff has been funding his preferred slate of candidates for years, especially in the past four years, to purge the commissioners he and Pedicini have dubbed liberal and RINOs. On the target list: past commissioners Misty Servia, Carol Whitmore and Priscilla Trace, as well as Democrat Reggie Bellamy.

In the 2020 elections, Beruff and Pedicini succeeded with the elections of Van Ostenbridge, James Satcher and Kruse and reelection of Vanessa Baugh — four of the seven commission seats. Check.

Then in 2022, they completed the mission, with the elections of Mike Rahn, Jason Bearden and Amanda Ballard.

Job done. Seven commissioners pretty much thought to be in lock step.

But even before that 2022 victory, through 2021, it was clear Van Ostenbridge had ambitions and coveted the king’s throne — chairmanship of the board. At the end of 2021, the commissioners gave him his wish, electing him chair beginning in 2022 (a position he held in 2023 as well).

In 2022, Van Ostenbridge made this pledge: “My expectations are that this will be a year filled with accountability, civility and ethics at all levels of our government.”

OH, HOW POWER CORRUPTS

While our political philosophy of freedom for the individual, limited

ELECTION ’24 MANATEE COUNTY COMMISSION; SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS; PROPERTY APPRAISER

OBSERVER RECOMMENDS

For the complete recommendations for Manatee County Commission districts and for the two Manatee School Board primaries, go to: YourObserver.com/Opinion.

‘LACK OF RESPECT FOR VOTERS’ Here is more to sour you on election politics: Candidates declining to participate in candidate forums or ignoring media requests.

This has now become standard practice, especially for incumbents.

For the full text, go to: YourObserver.com/Opinion.

government, property rights, low taxes and population and economic growth aligns with Van Ostenbridge’s, it is not just the “what” that matters. It’s also the “how” — how the policies are achieved.

Likewise, it is not just what the voters see. There is also the unseen — what occurs out of sight and earshot of the public.

The seen: A month ago, when Sarasota attorney Dan Lobeck presented commissioners with a packet of information opposing development on a 17-acre parcel at The Concession, the Observer reported: “The moment the packet reached Van Ostenbridge’s hands, he stood up, walked over to the garbage can, threw the packet in and returned to his seat.”

Insulting, unbecoming.

During one of the contentious meetings on the county’s wetlands buffers, Van Ostenbridge opined to the citizens in the commission chambers: “We’re all Republicans sitting up here. We love President Trump. We support the greatest governor in America. It’s become clear that we have radical climate activists who are pushing the new Green Deal and brought a movement that is rooted in communism into Manatee County.”

So much for dignity.

Indeed, disagreements are part of policy making, but so is respect for the way your fellow citizens are treated — especially from the commission dais.

A true public servant is open to his constituents’ voices, but Van Ostenbridge also led the shutdown of public dissent, ending call-in and social media comments to commissioners.

The unseen: The Bradenton Times obtained telephone call logs between Van Ostenbridge and the Manatee chief of code enforcement, showing 17 calls between March 1 and May 1, with Van Ostenbridge initiating 11 of the phone calls.

That same report provided details on text messages between two code enforcement employees that direct-

CORRECTIONS In last week’s sidebar editorial, “Speir takes issue with Buchanan’s votes,” the following was incorrect: n The Observer incorrectly referred to H.R. 9, a bill on the Paris Climate Agreement, as “The Green New Deal Act.” The bill was not “The Green New Deal Act.” Congressman Buchanan has opposed the Green New Deal; he voted to block the U.S. from leaving the Paris Climate Agreement.

n The Observer incorrectly stated

Buchanan's votes on two bills.

Here are the correct votes: n H.J. Resolution 46 (2019) — A vote to support Trump and build the border wall.

Buchanan: No. Freedom Caucus: Yes. n H.R. 863 — Vote to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.

Buchanan: Did not vote.

Freedom Caucus: Yes.

ed one of the employees to “grab” an anti-Van Ostenbridge campaign sign off of private property and “hold on to it.”

The Bradenton Times reported that on the same day that the code enforcement officer was directed to remove the sign, Van Ostenbridge and a code enforcement supervisor exchanged four telephone calls.

Commissioners set policy; they are not to jump over the county administrator and involve themselves in day-to-day operations.

That’s just one case.

Indeed, if you put the current county commissioners on a witness stand, there would be disclosures of Van Ostenbridge maneuvering behind the scenes with the county staff. Such behavior prompted former Commissioner Satcher at one point to motion for a re-vote on Van Ostenbridge’s election as chair.

Commissioners, we’re told, backed down, wary of repercussions.

Suffice it to say, Manatee voters know well Van Ostenbridge has not lived up to the pledge of “accountability, civility and ethics.”

And yet, in a show of more brass, Van Ostenbridge, Pedicini and Beruff are now targeting Commissioner Kruse as a “liberal” who has strayed out of bounds and needs to be ousted. And talk about conceit, Van Ostenbridge, apparently thinking his MAGA-ism will carry him to victory, switched from running in his home District 3 to run against Kruse for the District 7 At-Large seat.

FLICKING THEIR NOSES

One last point: It’s the equivalent of this united band essentially flicking their noses at taxpayers.

That would be the $841,340 they voted to transfer from the general fund to help the flagging candidacy of Pedicini-Beruff-backed Satcher in his supervisor of elections race.

Disguised as necessary funds to shore up and expand the supervisor’s operations, stunningly, the request for this cash came from Satcher with not a lick of detail of exactly how the money would be spent. No detail on the cost of leasing space; no detail on what new employees will be paid; no details on exactly how money would be spent on IT software and hardware.

It didn’t matter; no questions asked. The vote: 6-1 (Kruse: voting no).

So let’s summarize the Manatee County Commission primaries: The Pedicini-Beruff team: Steve Metallo (District 1); April Culbreath (District 3); and Kevin Van Ostenbridge (District 7, at-large).

The opposition: Carol Ann Felts (District 1); Talha “Tal” Siddique (District 3); Robert McCann (District 5); and George Kruse (District 7, at-large).

And a standalone, albeit still seen as one of the pack: Ray Turner (District 5).

A vote for the Pedicini-Beruff candidates is a continuation of antagonistic business as usual. A vote for the opposition can begin a course correction back toward respectable representation of taxpayers, where differing points of view can be and often are healthy.

The American system is all about checks and balances. With differing views on the commission, may the best arguments win.

We recommend: Carol Ann Felts (District 1); Talha “Tal” Siddique (District 3); Ray Turner (District 5); and George Kruse (District 7, atlarge)

Supervisor of Elections

Candidates: Scott Farrington and James Satcher When Americans’ trust in government and confidence in its competence are falling into a black abyss (e.g. prima facie No. 1: Secret Service protection of Donald Trump), voters need candidates who are and will be competent and who are and will be trustworthy.

In the Manatee supervisor of elections race, voters have an indisputable and unequivocal choice of a candidate who embodies those qualities.

There really is no need to detail what we have already commented on twice and reported in our news columns about the differences between Scott Farrington, former

11-year chief of staff in the Manatee supervisor’s office, and the recently politically appointed incumbent supervisor, James Satcher.

If you are not familiar, take the time to go to these links: n Feb. 21: “Clash of merit vs. politics” — YourObserver.com/ News/2024/Feb/21/OpinionClash-Of-Merit-VS-Politics/ n May 8: “Shocker: DeSantis puts politics above competence” — YourObserver.com/news/2024/ May/08/Opinion-Shocker-Desantis-Puts-Politics-Above-Competence/ We have seen these two candidates in action for years, and if we were to be charged with hiring Farrington or Satcher for this job, there would be no point interviewing Satcher. The difference in qualifications and character for the job is stark.

Let’s cite just the one, recent instance: Only one month — one month — into his new job as supervisor, a job where his predecessor and chief operating officer had both left and a job for which he had zero experience, Satcher apparently was able to determine with certainty that he needed $841,340 “to expand safety and security measures and audit vital information and operations;” upgrade hardware and software “to perform a complete and full audit of certified election results;” add a polling site in the North River Ranch area “to expand voter access and ease Election Day lines;” and “open two satellite offices in the Lakewood Ranch and North River Ranch areas … as our county’s population center trends eastward.”

Anyone in an unfamiliar, totally new business leadership or management role knows there is no way he or she can possibly know in a month’s time with certainty whether to take such significant steps.

What’s more, how would Satcher even know all that was needed without ever having experienced firsthand how the supervisor’s office works through an election?

Even worse: He presented no proforma in his request for more money showing the cost of leases, salaries to be paid to new employees, how much computers and software would cost, etc., etc.

In the 12 years, former Supervisor Mike Bennett and his chief of staff, Farrington, operated the most cost-efficient office in the state with nary a voter complaint, the $841,340 that Satcher requested is more money than Bennett requested altogether in all 12 years he served.

Gov. DeSantis erred when he chose a political ally over competence. Manatee voters should correct this.

We recommend: Scott Farrington

Property Appraiser

Candidates: Darin George and Charles Hackney It’s a logical thought: Charles Hackney is 74 and has been Manatee County’s property appraiser for 31 years. That is a long time, and many might say long enough. Anyone in the job that long is bound to fall behind a step or two.

Ahem. Hello? Donald Trump is 78. Moses parted the Red Sea when he was 80 and led his Jewish followers to the Promised Land at age 120.

Let’s drop the age thing. The issue is our standard litmus test for incumbents: Are they doing a good job, deserving to stay in office?

Hackney’s opponent, Darin George, of Ellenton, simply says: “Charles Hackney needs to retire.

Change is needed, and change will be good.”

But everyone also knows change for change sake is not always good.

If it ain’t broke …

What’s more, George doesn’t have a grasp of the job. (See the Observer candidate questionnaire, YourObserver.com/News/Elections.)

There is no debate: Hackney has demonstrated his commitment to serving Manatee County residents fairly and efficiently for three decades and continues to do a good job.

We recommend: Charles Hackney

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 25, 2024

HAROLD RONSON | 1926-2024

Inspiring others, one story at a time Well-known Longboat resident and philanthropist never took life — or himself — too seriously.

A

s he told it, the day before Harold Ronson shipped out to the Philippines, courtesy of the U.S. Navy during World War II, his commanding officer gave him and his buddies leave for the night.

They headed to the Hollywood Canteen, where a “lovely creature” asked him to dance.

That woman was 19-year-old Ava Gardner, and it was an experience Ronson said he would never forget.

Or there’s the time when he got court-martialed for accidentally firing a 40-millimeter cannon into a beach after falling asleep on watch duty. Luckily, his captain knew it was an accident and withdrew it from his file. Ronson said it was a shame; he would have liked to read the charge against him.

Or the time he got kicked out of his dog’s obedience class for making one too many wisecracks. That left it to his wife to train the dog, which she did well. Ronson said he never had to worry about her when he traveled for work, but that dog never did warm up to him.

From his humble upbringing in Brooklyn to his success running his own business, Ronson had a story for everything, and he was willing to tell it to anyone who would listen.

And if you were lucky enough to hear him tell it, you’d know that life through his eyes was an enchanting mix of comedy, hard work and luck — and he enjoyed every bit of it.

Ronson died July 15 at his L’Ambiance condominium on Longboat Key. He was 98 and is survived by two daughters, Norma and Joanne, his two grandchildren, Lauren and Jonathan, and his great-grandchild, Jackson.

Although Ronson was known for his stories, which were as colorful and full of personality as he was, he was also a larger-than-life character to his friends, family and the causes

“He viewed the world as the glass always being half full, not half empty.”

— Hein Rusen

he cared about. He had a unique ability to make others feel special and gave generously in all aspects of his life.

“I had the pleasure and honor of knowing my father for 67 years,” said his daughter, Norma Ronson Koppel.

“He was a proud Jew, and he was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He taught me to make every moment count and to never take life too seriously.”

A STORYTELLER IS BORN

In 1926 in Brooklyn, Ronson was born into a family that struggled to make ends meet. According to his 2013 memoir, “The Way I Tell the Story,” his mother died when he was 14. After that, he lived with his father, who drove a cab at night and was more reliable for good times than parenting.

As a teen during World War II, Ronson was inspired by his two older brothers’ service in the armed forces.

At the age of 17, Ronson forged his father’s signature on a consent form to join the U.S. Navy.

As Ronson told it, a friend told him he should join the Navy instead of the Marines so he could stay out of the infantry. “Yeah, he was a smart guy all right. He told me to join the Navy to avoid combat, and I wound up on Iwo Jima,” Ronson said.

From 1944 to 1946, Ronson served at Iwo Jima and in the Philippines.

His time in the military netted him his best material for stories. And, although he saw horrific things and survived a great deal, he always kept an eye looking toward the lighter side of life.

Close friend Ken Tarasi said one of Ronson’s favorite stories was about his experience on the ship that took him across the Pacific Ocean to Iwo Jima.

“I saw a picture of it on his wall in the den,” said Tarasi. “I thought, ‘That looks like a giant ship.’ But then you get closer to it and realize that it’s not a very big ship at all. When Harold got on that ship, he thought it was going to take them to a bigger ship. But then he found out that he was actually going to be stuck on that tiny ship with 30 big guys. He loved telling stories like that.”

Another story Ronson told frequently was about how he got his nickname, “Cookie.” According to his memoir, when the ship’s cook fell

File image

Harold Ronson donated millions of dollars to philanthropic efforts throughout his life.

ill, Ronson was tapped to fill in.

Knowing nothing about c­ ooking, he set pork loins to roast. After spending too much time talking up on the deck, he came down to the kitchen to find the meat burned beyond saving. Looking around, he decided to use a can of mincemeat to make hamburgers for his fellow servicemen instead.

Of course, not knowing that mincemeat is flammable, when he placed his “burgers” on the stovetop they exploded, setting the whole galley on fire.

As Ronson told it, he was a religious cook: Everything he made was a burnt offering.

Courtesy image

LIFE AFTER WAR

After returning home, Ronson was working in the warehouse of a textile company when some co-workers urged him to go back to school.

Heeding their advice, he used the G.I. Bill to attend the Philadelphia Textile Institute at Philadelphia College, now Thomas Jefferson University, from 1946 to 1951. He was the first in his family to go to college.

After graduating with a degree in chemistry, he became a plant chemist for W. Lowenthal, a synthetic fiber company in Cohoes, New York.

One of his longtime friends on Longboat Key, David Novak, said, as Ronson told it, the company’s

WORSHIP

president saw he was a go-getter and told him someday he would end up ­owning the company.

In 1962, that’s exactly what happened, when Ronson bought the company with a group of stockholders. In the 1970s, he bought out his partners and became the sole owner.

In his memoir, Ronson recalled that the company had been losing money for 11 years. In Ronson’s first month at the helm, it made $6,000. He continued to increase the productivity of his plant and expanded the business to South Carolina. Throughout his career, he had a knack for finding opportunities and for winning over

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After two failed attempts to revisit Iwo Jima, Harold Ronson made the voyage in 2018.

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those who could help him.

“There’s a reason you fail in life,” Ronson wrote. “There’s a reason you fail in marriage. There’s a reason you fail in your work, and the formula is very simple. You’ve got to devote yourself to what has to be done, not what you want to do.”

But, always a people person, he credited most of his success to his relationships with others — and a little to luck as well.

It was both that resulted in him selling his business to Hanes Co. in 1984. A chance encounter with the company’s president in the Atlanta airport led to striking a deal to sell a month later. At the time, most of the textile mills in the U.S. were closing.

Without consulting his lawyer or accountant, Ronson took the deal as it was offered and retired a few months later.

A HEART TO GIVE BACK

In 1976, Ronson and his late wife, Kay, became snowbirds on Longboat Key. The Ronsons loved the Sarasota Opera, for which Ronson served on the board for nearly 20 years, and he played tennis almost religiously at the Longboat Key Club — even after three hip replacements.

Even after he stopped playing tennis at 94, he would meet with his tennis friends once a week for lunch.

After he stopped driving, his friends were happy to pick him up and take him wherever he wanted to go.

His friend Hein Rusen described Ronson as always cheerful.

“He viewed the world as the glass always being half full,” said Rusen.

“He was a real people person and loved his wife, family and friends dearly. He was a very generous person and a very caring person.”

Ronson described Kay and his two daughters as the loves of his life. He never missed an opportunity to brag about them and his grandkids.

When Kay fell ill with Alzheimer’s, Ronson took care of her at home as long as he could. When she was moved to a facility, Ronson had lunch with her daily for the nearly five years until she died in 2012.

Erin McLeod, president and CEO of the Senior Friendship Centers, said Ronson had a special relationship with the organization after a tennis buddy talked him into attend-

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File images

Molly Schechter and Harold Ronson co-chaired the annual gala for the Senior Friendship Centers for several years. The two were “kind of an ‘it’ couple,” says Erin McLeod, president and CEO of the nonprofit.

“Cookie” Ronson (right) with the steward, B.J. Snowden, aboard LCI 1012. The ship was so small, Ronson said, it didn’t have a name — it had a number.

ing a support group for caregivers.

This introduction eventually led him to co-chair the organization’s annual gala with his partner, Molly Schechter. In keeping with Ronson’s sense of humor, each gala incorporated a theme featuring Groucho Marx, one of Ronson’s comedic heroes.

“They really helped put us on the map philanthropically,” McLeod said of Ronson and Schechter. “He either had really good info on people, or they just really loved him. I tend to think it was the latter.”

Although he came to the organization as a caregiver, McLeod said Ronson saw it in a different light later on in life. Ronson would come to the downtown Sarasota center three days a week to dance and socialize with others. She said it was special to witness him expanding his circle and meeting people he probably wouldn’t come across otherwise.

And she’s grateful the organization could give back to the lovable raconteur who had done so much for it.

“He was here for us,” McLeod said.

“And then we got to be there for him.”

To ensure a safe haven for seniors, Ronson partnered with Rusen to create a $2 million endowment at the Senior Friendship Centers.

The Ronsons supported many

PRESERVING HISTORY

causes in the area and up North. At his alma mater, Thomas Jefferson University, he donated $2 million to create The Kay and Harold Ronson Health and Applied Science Center.

At Kay’s alma mater, Russell Sage College, Ronson and his daughters established a graduate nursing scholarship fund in her honor.

Ronson said his deep belief in philanthropy came from his mother, and he wanted to give away as much as possible. Novak said one of Ronson’s favorite jokes was that when he writes his last check, which will be to the undertaker, he hopes it will bounce.

The atrium at the Sarasota Opera is named for the Ronsons, as is an endowment for nursing education at Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation, in honor of Kay and her profession.

“In all his donations, there was never any question as to whose name was going to go first,” Novak said.

In 2023, Ronson donated $500,000 to Temple Beth Israel, which is the biggest contribution in its history.

On Feb. 25, the 45th annual Temple Beth Israel gala honored Ronson for his many contributions throughout the years.

When thinking back to the eight

Although Harold Ronson was successful in most of his endeavors, he couldn’t make one of his projects come to fruition.

In 2013, he and Thomas Savage, then chair of the Sarasota Public Art Fund, worked to raise $1.4 million to purchase the original Iwo Jima memorial statue of the raising of the flag and put it on the Sarasota bayfront. Ronson felt it was important to preserve the art for public enjoyment and memorialize everyone who served and sacrificed in WWII. After resistance from the City Commission, the two decided to end their efforts.

years he knew Harold Ronson, Isaac Azerad, executive director of Temple Beth Israel, could only think to describe him as the Hebrew word “dakka.”

“In Judaism, philanthropy is not charity,” said Azerad. “In Judaism, it is something called ‘dakka.’ Dakka is an act of righteousness. That’s his biggest impact, how he was so forthcoming with righteousness toward the temple.”

FULL CIRCLE

Two times in his life, Ronson tried to visit Iwo Jima again but only made it as far as Los Angeles. It was too emotional for him to continue on those journeys. But in 2018, he traveled back to the island with Schechter.

The bittersweet trip allowed him to pay homage to his fellow soldiers who died fighting there. It also made him grateful for everything he had experienced in life after he came back to America.

Although humble in spirit, Ronson wasn’t shy about his successes.

Schechter said he took great pride in his straight stance and youthful physique and dressed with style right to the end.

McLeod said the last time she saw him, Ronson was flexing his bicep and urging her to feel how firm his muscles still were. She complied and admitted they indeed were.

Yet that playful personality was balanced with a genuine love and deep caring for those around him.

“He was proud of his accomplishments, but they never came at the expense of others,” said Novak, who believed Ronson led a “perfect life.”

But, as usual, perhaps Ronson told it best: “I like to be somebody; I like people to know me. I like to leave a mark,” he wrote in his memoir.

“What better feeling is there than to help somebody?”

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JULY 25, 2024

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

Harold Newton’s 1960 painting, “Clouds over the Florida Coast,” is part of the “The Florida Highwaymen: Interstate Connections” exhibition at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.

ON THE ROAD AGAIN

Selby Gardens stages a new Florida Highwaymen exhibition with links to Sarasota history.

MONICA ROMAN GAGNIER ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

W

hen you first look at Alfred Hair’s 1960 artwork, “Palms on the Florida

Coast,” at the Museum of Botany & the Arts at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, it’s easy to assume Hair was a practitioner of plein air painting. That means he stood outdoors on a relatively unspoiled beach and captured the scene with his brush and paints.

But that assumption would be wrong.

Why? Because Hair was African American and was not allowed to paint or swim on Florida’s beaches at that time because of Jim Crow laws designed to segregate the races.

Like his fellow painters in the Fort Pierce area who have been dubbed the “Florida Highwaymen,” Hair worked from photographs or scenes in his head. Gallerist Jim Fitch is given credit for coining the term “Florida Highwaymen” in 1994 to describe the African American artists who sold their works out of cars parked along the road.

Unfortunately, we can’t ask the artist, also known as Freddy Hair, about how he drew his inspiration for “Palms on the Florida Coast,”

because he died in 1970 at the age of 29 in a bar-room shooting. It was a rough-and-tumble life for the Florida Highwaymen, mostly self-taught artists who painted to survive.

Even though they were originally from Florida’s East Coast, the Highwaymen’s works have been getting a lot of attention in Sarasota as of late.

In January, the city of Sarasota mounted an exhibition in the lobby of City Hall with paintings borrowed from Roger Lightle, a Vero Beach collector who has amassed approximately 700 Highwaymen paintings.

The show was refreshed in June and will be extended for another six months.

JACKS AND JILLS OF MANY TRADES

Back in 2004, 26 of the original Highwaymen artists were inducted into the Florida Artists Hall of Fame in Tallahassee. Only one of the artists was female. Her name was Mary Ann Carroll, and she was known as the “First Lady” of the Florida Highwaymen.

Caroll’s daughter, Wanda Renee Mills, recently gave a talk about her mother’s life at Arts Advocates of Sarasota in the Crossings at Siesta Key mall. She recalled how her mother, in addition to being an accomplished artist, could do everything from fix a car engine to climb a utility pole to turn the power back on.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens has been down the Highwaymen road before. Three years ago, it held a summer exhibition in the Museum of Botany & the Arts called “We Dream a World: African American Landscape Painters of Mid-Century Florida.”

Sarasota attracts many tourists

Photos by Monica Gagnier

IF YOU GO ‘THE FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN: INTERSTATE CONNECTIONS’ When: Through Sept. 15.

Where: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tickets: $28.

Info: Visit Selby.org.

and retirees to its arts attractions, so it makes sense that there’s a market here for Florida Highwaymen shows even if the group, estimated to have produced more than 200,000 paintings from the 1950s to the 1970s, wasn’t local.

Originally sold for between $20 and $30, the Florida landscape paintings by the Highwaymen dramatically increased in value after the 2001 publication of Gary Monroe’s book “The Highwaymen.” In her Arts Advocates talk, Mills referred to the rapid price appreciation of the paintings as a “gold rush.”

Indeed, the back of a painting on display at Selby Gardens has a price of $10,000, but that isn’t a recent price. Today, Florida Highwaymen paintings can fetch up to $45,000, though bargains can be found in thrift shops and garage sales.

MAKING THE SARASOTA CONNECTION

As the title of Selby Gardens’ latest exhibition, “The Florida Highwaymen: Interstate Connections,” indicates, the show links the pioneering artistic work done on Florida’s East Coast with simultaneous efforts to desegregate Lido Beach in Sarasota. “Wade-ins” and other actions helped lead to the passage of the Civil Rights Act in 1964, ensuring the rights of all Floridians to enjoy access to its public beaches.

One room in the Selby museum is dedicated to Sarasota history. It has a mural of the Lido beach wade-ins painted by Ringling College of Art & Design Chief Curator Tim Jaeger on one wall. On another hang photographs of leaders in the efforts to preserve the city’s African American history, such as Vickie Oldham, CEO and president of the Sarasota African

The trunk of a 1958 Plymouth Savoy is filled with plants to promote Selby Gardens’ exhibition, “The Florida Highwaymen: Interstate Connections.”

It was a roughand-tumble life for the Florida Highwaymen, who were mostly selftaught artists who painted to survive.

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American Cultural Coalition.

While efforts to desegregate buses and lunch counters loom large in the retelling of the U.S. civil rights movement, the quiet, persistent efforts of Sarasota’s waders have gone largely unsung. One exception is WEDU’s 2023 documentary, “The Sarasota Experience,” directed by Shaun Greenspan.

On a recent Friday, Walter Gilbert, vice president for diversity and inclusion at Selby Gardens, talked about his memories of the era. He recalled seeing the Florida Highwaymen selling their paintings out of cars on a trip to the Fort Pierce area.

He also remembered how members of Sarasota’s Black churches traveled in a caravan of shared cars (“Most African Americans couldn’t afford to own a car then”) after church and waded into the water at Lido Beach.

The weekly excursions took place for nearly a decade, until the Civil Rights Act was passed. “That’s a long time,” Gilbert noted.

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Selby Gardens Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion Walter Gilbert talks about Sarasota’s wadein protests at a preview of its “Interstate Connections,” its new exhibit featuring Florida Highwaymen painters.

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put a visit to the Museum of Florida History in Tallahassee on your bucket list. It’s temporarily closed due to renovations, but will reopen in 2026.

There’s also a notable collection of the Fort Pierce artists’ works at the Smithsonian’s Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. It has 18 Florida Highwaymen paintings.

Be careful, though. Some collectors of Florida Highwaymen art can’t stop once they get started. The bold brush strokes and vivid hues of unspoiled Florida beaches and lush tropical flora are known to create intense feelings of happiness — and desire.

Florida Highwaymen artworks with livestock roaming in the countryside are in demand, says Berry, most likely because these scenes aren’t as frequently found in real life, as ranching and farming gives way to development.

Collectors of Florida Highwaymen paintings are known to become experts on various artists’ painting styles, materials and frames.

To transport their works while the paint was still drying, artists created frames made from repurposed molding that could be easily stacked in the trunk of a car without damaging the art.

The Florida Highwaymen rabbit hole is a deep one.

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HOOKED ON HIGHWAYMEN PAINTINGS

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The Sarasota part of the “Interstate Connections” exhibition also celebrates the murals of early African American leaders such as Leonard Reid in Sarasota’s Overtown neighborhood, now called the Rosemary District.

If there’s one reason for making the trip to Selby Gardens for the Highwaymen exhibit, it’s to see Harold Newton’s painting, “Clouds over the Coast,” sitting in the trunk of a sawed-off blue 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air. In the background is a giant reproduction of a 1950s-era postcard of the Causeway Bridge over the Indian River in Fort Pierce. Car buffs are sure to be delighted by the installation.

Although most of the Florida Highwaymen were self-taught, Newton and Hair received training from Fort Pierce painter A.E. “Bean” Backus. He convinced them and others that landscapes had more commercial value than religious scenes.

Selby worked with a custom body shop/salvager in Chicago to create the car installation, said David Berry, chief museum curator at Selby.

The trunk of a red 1958 Plymouth Savoy is filled with the botanical garden’s signature plants. It stands outside Selby’s new visitor center promoting the “Interstate Connections” exhibit.

If you haven’t made it over to Selby Gardens since it opened Phase 1 of its new master plan in January and flipped the switch in June on its new solar array panel to become the first net-positive energy botanical garden complex in the world, the Florida Highwaymen exhibit is a good excuse to go.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 25, 2024

THIS WEEK

OUR PICK

‘DEAR JACK, DEAR LOUISE’ 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.

IF YOU GO When: 8 p.m. Thursday, July 25 Where: FST’s Keating Theatre, 1241 N. Palm Ave. Tickets: $29-$46 Info: Visit FloridaStudioTheatre. org.

THURSDAY

OPENING RECEPTION FOR ‘SMALL WORKS: BIG IMPACT’ 5 p.m. at Creative Liberties, 901B Apricot Ave. and 927 N. Lime Ave. Free Visit CreativeLiberties.net.

View and purchase the work of more than 40 local artists — encompassing more than 225 pieces of art — at two Creative Liberties locations.

Enjoy bites and beverages.

HELEN KEANEY 7 p.m. at McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre, 1923 Ringling Blvd. $26 Visit McCurdysComedy.com.

On its website, McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre says that comedian Helen Keaney should have a warning sign at her shows that reads “Sit in the front row at your own peril.” Keaney has carved out an edgy, sexy niche for herself with comedy shows on cruise lines and by hosting TV shows for Comedy Central, Discovery Health and others. Her stand-up credits include A&E’s “An Evening at

DON’T MISS

SARASOTA BALLET SCHOOL: ‘IN MOTION’ This performance showcases the students ages 12-21 who participated in the Sarasota Ballet School’s Summer Intensive. The program features new choreography from Sarasota Ballet principal dancer Maximiliano Iglesias, an excerpt from “Swan Lake, Act II,” staged by principal dancers Jennifer Hackbarth and Jessica Assef, and “Waltz of the Hours” from “Coppelia,” staged by Sarasota Ballet School Principal Jennifer Welch Cudnik. Runs through July 27.

IF YOU GO When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 25 Where: at FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail Tickets: $35-$40 Info: Visit SarasotaBallet.org.

Courtesy images

the Improv,” Lifetime’s “Girl’s Night Out” and Comedy Central’s “Make Me Laugh.”Runs through July. 28.

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

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.

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

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.

‘THE OUTSIDER’ 8 p.m. at FST’s Gompertz Theatre, 1265 First St. $29-$46 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

Sarasota Ballet School Principal Jennifer Welch Cudnik.

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After the last few weeks in politics, we could all use some laughs.

Florida Studio Theatre comes to the rescue with a political comedy about the world’s least likely candidate for

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governor, who just might be exactly what the voters want. Let’s hear it for democracy! Runs through Aug. 18.

FRIDAY ‘WE ARE STILL TORNADOES’ 7:30 p.m. at Tree Fort Productions, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail $30 Visit TreeFortProductionsProjects. com.

Katherine Michelle Tanner’s Tree Free Productions throws its hat into the summer theater ring with “We Are Still Tornadoes,” Lou Harry’s coming-of-age story set in the 1980s. Runs through July 28.

SATURDAY ‘THE END OF THE WORLD’ 7:30 p.m. at FST’s Bowne’s Lab, 1265 First St. $15-$18 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

A showcase for The Sarasota Players’ summer camp students, this rock musical follows a city boy from South Detroit, and Sherrie, a smalltown girl, who have both come to LA’s famous Sunset Strip in 1987 seeking fame and fortune.

MONDAY NEWISH JEWISH PLAYS: ‘DANCING ON GLASS’ 7 p.m. The Players Centre, Studio 1130, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail $12 Visit SarasotaJewishTheatre.org.

If it’s summer in Sarasota, it’s time for play readings. The Sarasota Jewish Theatre enters the derby with Newish Jewish Plays, a threeplay series on three consecutive Mondays. The third selection is “We Are the Levinsons” by Wendy Kout, directed by Carole Kleinberg. The play follows an adult daughter who moves in with her newly widowed dad and tries to take over his life.

Did the recent Sarasota Improv Festival open your eyes to the delights of spontaneous comedy? You’re in luck. FST’s in-house improv troupe will perform an improvised disaster movie based on a title supplied by the audience. Who needs “Twisters” anyway?

CABARET ON THE BOULEVARD: DECO 8 p.m. The Original Wolfie’s Rascal House, 1420 Boulevard of the Arts $50-$60 Visit CabaretOnTheBoulevard.com.

Grae Productions is teaming up with The Original Wolfie’s in the Rosemary District to launch a monthly cabaret series. This Deco-themed program features an ensemble cast, including Animalia, Marshall Chandler, Brian Craft, Luna DeLust, Nadia Nirvana, Kathryn Parks and Alex Zickafoose.

SUNDAY ‘ROCK OF AGES’ YOUTH EDITION 6:30 p.m. at The Sarasota Players Studio, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 1130 $15 Visit ThePlayers.org.

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Contortionist Uranbileg Angarag performs at the Summer Circus Spectacular, which runs through Aug. 17 at The Ringling’s Historic Asolo Theater.

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JULY 25, 2024

YOUR NEIGHBORS

Women who lift Workout warriors on the Key hit the weights for mobility and muscle development.

STAFF WRITER

L

ongboat Key resident Jan Feidelman, 70, has always included movement in her

everyday life. She was on sports teams in high school and did workout classes in college.

But as she got older, working out took on a new purpose: maintaining functional mobility.

“As an older woman, you start to lose your range of motion or your strength,” said Feidelman. “So when I realized that, I moved into weightbearing exercises around 17 years ago. Thanks to lifting weights, I still can do most things that I could do when I was younger. I can bend down to clean something around the house. I can catch myself when I fall.

Many of my friends my age can’t do that.”

As people age, they experience muscle loss. This is called sarcopenia, said Petar Sibinkic, Feidelman’s

MICHAEL CLARKE’S TIPS FOR BEGINNERS n Identify your goals and intentions. What do you want to get out of working out? How do you want this to impact your life? n Consistency is key. You will see no results if you are not making this a part of your routine. n Consider getting a trainer.

A trainer can help you achieve your goals faster, keep you accountable and make adjustments to workouts to prevent injuries.

trainer and owner of Longboat Key Fitness. He said that including exercise, strength training and cardio in your everyday life is necessary to prevent this muscle loss and increase your lifespan.

CONSISTENCY IS KEY

Marilyn Shuman, 87, said she started working out because her family has a history of early arthritis. Moving all her muscle groups helps prevent arthritis in specific body parts such as her knees. She was introduced to weight training 25 years ago, and it changed her whole view on what a full-body workout looks like.

Shuman is all about consistency and routine. She works out for two hours two days every week at Longboat Key Fitness with a trainer. The other days of the week, she works out at her building’s fitness center doing aerobic workouts on the elliptical or the bicycle.

“A lot of people focus on one or the other, but it is the combination of weightlifting and cardio that gives the best results,” said Shuman.

Susan Singer, 75, started lifting when she was 48 years old because she noticed that when she gained weight, her body would broaden.

Weightlifting focused on tightening her muscles.

She started working with her trainer Michael Clarke during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Singer said having a trainer is the best way to work out. Clarke reminds her to use the correct form and will make adjustments to the workout according to her medical issues.

When she isn’t at Longboat Key Fitness, Singer goes to Pilates classes, which also include weights for some of the exercises. Working out consistently and prioritizing healthy eating habits helped Singer see results in one month.

WEIGHING THE BENEFITS

The biggest benefits these women have seen from weightlifting are better balance and strength. Because they work out every muscle group, it gives them high energy levels, keeps the blood pumping correctly and releases endorphins.

“When you hit a certain age, you go to the doctor and they ask you,

Jan Feidelman, 70, says she works out to maintain functional mobility.

‘When is the last time you fell?’” said Feidelman. “This is just a shocking question to me, but it is so prevalent in our lives when we get older. So when I do fall, I can actually get up.

I thankfully don’t even have to think about restrictions.”

Weightlifting can help slow down bone loss, according to the Mayo Clinic. Osteoporosis is most prevalent in women after menopause, but both men and women can benefit.

Each year, skeletons are constantly discarding weakened, old bone tissue and replacing it with new, healthy bone tissue. This process is called remodeling, wrote certified health coach Mirabai Holland in a column for the Longboat Observer.

If you have osteoporosis, the remodeling process can’t work correctly because the old bone tissue is too weak and little or nothing takes its place. This creates bone fractures.

Weight-bearing exercises help stimulate the remodeling process and promote bone growth. Holland emphasizes doing resistance training exercises that work out the whole body but focusing on the areas most at risk, which are the spine, hip and wrist.

FITNESS FRIENDS

All three women have noticed that working out consistently has mental and social benefits as well.

They have noticed how their attitude changes when they miss a workout. Starting the morning with a workout provides a great start to the day and puts them in a good mental health space for the rest of the day.

The community atmosphere at the gym also motivates them to work out even when they don’t want to. Singer said that she was friends with her trainer before they started working out together, which makes the workout more enjoyable.

“Working out here truly releases the stresses of every day,” said Shu-

Photos by Petra Rivera

man. “We joke around that we need something mindless while we’re working out. Our favorite is to watch ‘The Price Is Right.’ I will usually be on the elliptical and my friend will also be on the elliptical. We try and guess the prices and have a little competition going on at the same time while exercising. We have a lot of fun that way.”

It is the little aspects like watching “The Price is Right” or being friends with your trainer that keep these women coming back. With the benefits of weightlifting and the close friends they have built, they said they wouldn’t know what their life would be like if this wasn’t a part of their routine.

“It is so important to prioritize movement and how your body changes because it is such a big part of your life,” said Feidelman. “Movement is just life, so weightlifting will help you stay in motion for as long as possible.”

Susan Singer, 75, says she started lifting in her late 40s to help tighten her muscles.

“Thanks to lifting weights, I still can do most things that I could do when I was younger.”

— Jan Feidelman

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PETRA RIVERA

16

YourObserver.com

KEY HEALTH

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 25, 2024

How to have a sun-safe summer Sunscreens are not created equal, and the most expensive isn’t necessarily the best.

VISIBLE LIGHT

MIRABAI HOLLAND CONTRIBUTOR

B

eing in the sun stirs something primal in us. Throughout history, ancient civilizations around the world have worshiped the sun for its life-giving warmth and light. We Floridians tend to embrace it, too.

Sun science is hot, bad pun intended. The sun’s energy comes to us in waves, or rays, of light.

The waves reach the Earth in various lengths from very long to very short. All these rays taken together make up the electromagnetic spectrum.

Humans can only see a small portion of the spectrum. We see the colors of the rainbow and combinations of those colors and that’s it. Our world is painted beautifully with just those colors.

But the fact is, all the rest, the longer-than-red, infrared, rays that produce the heat we feel, and the shorter-than-violet, ultraviolet rays are invisible to us. These invisible rays are still light, even though our eyes can’t see them.

When we talk about protecting our skin from the sun, we’re referring to those invisible ultraviolet or UV rays.

HOT TOPICS

Whether we’re working or playing outside, sun safety should be a hot topic. This is especially true in summer, when it’s even hotter, more of our bodies are exposed and the sun’s ultraviolet rays are stronger.

There are two types of UV rays we need to be careful of, UVA and UVB. UVA has longer wavelengths that

with a dark spot in it, and basal cell carcinoma that looks like a reddish or brownish blotch. They occur more often in older people and are the most treatable, particularly if caught early.

The deadliest form, melanoma, looks like a dark irregularly shaped blotch. It can start very small. Left untreated it spreads inside your body and eventually ends your life. It’s more common in younger people.

But skin cancer is largely preventable.

RAY BANS

File images

Finding the right sunscreen often means checking labels and researching ingredients.

get deep into skin. They cause that ever popular, tough, weathered look, premature aging, wrinkling and leathery skin. UVB rays are shorter and are responsible for the lobster effect a lot of tourists seem to like, sunburn.

Both damage your skin’s DNA, and both can cause skin cancer.

Anyone can get any type of skin cancer at any time. Nearly one in 10 people in Florida will develop some form of skin cancer in their

lifetime. Skin cancer is sneaky. It often starts with something that looks like a bug bite or a freckle.

If left untreated, it develops into something that requires surgical removal or worse. So early detection is critical. Get yearly checkups with a dermatologist, and seek immediate medical attention if you notice any new spot on your skin.

The most common skin cancers are squamous cell carcinoma — that looks sort of like a pimple

VISIT OUR NEW

Cover-ups work great, but not everyone wants to wear them because they’re hot.

Sunscreen is your ounce of prevention when you expect to be out for a while.

Sunscreens are not created equal, and the most expensive is not necessarily the best. Make sure to read reviews by reputable medical organizations.

SPF, or sun protection factor, is a measure of what percentage of UV rays the sunscreen blocks. An SPF of 15 blocks about 93%, SPF 30 blocks 97%, SPF 50 blocks 98%.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends SPF 30 or higher.

There are two basic types of sunscreens. Physical, also called mineral sunscreens sit on your skin and

act as a barrier to UV rays. They are usually hypoallergenic and generally safe, but they tend to wash off in water or when you’re sweating while playing sports. Keep some with you and reapply as needed.

The best ones contain titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.

Chemical sunscreen is sunscreen that gets absorbed in the skin and traps UV rays and releases them as heat energy. Chemical sunscreens don’t work on contact. You need to wait 20 minutes or so before going out in the sun. Their effect wears off after about two hours, so you need to reapply if you’re staying out.

Most importantly, many chemical sunscreens contain homosalate and octocrylene, chemicals that have been shown to be unsafe in the amounts used. Some of these chemicals have shown up in blood tests up to weeks after application.

Traces have been found in breast milk and there is some evidence of a link to breast cancer. More study is needed, but to be on the safer side, I personally prefer to use mineral sunscreens. Check the ingredients on the package.

Then there’s eyewear.

Prolonged exposure to the sun can contribute to macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness.

We all wanna be that hot person in the cool shades and there are lots of broad-spectrum UV-blocking, glare-reducing, polarized brands and styles to choose from. So you can be safe and stylish at the same time while you keep the sun on your side.

Mirabai Holland is CEO of NuVue LLC, a health education and video production company. She is a certified health coach, exercise physiologist and wellness consultant for Manatee County government and has a private practice. Her wellness programs are implemented worldwide.She is also an artist who believes creativity enhances health. Contact her at ­AskMirabai@­MovingFree. com.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 25, 2024

ADVERTISEMENT

Financial Planning for Families

Photos by Petra Rivera

Scholarship recipients Tyler Dunn, Regina Ladron DeGuevara, Nyrdia Bonnaire Fils and Chase Matilla

A brief guide to thinking about your wealth and legacy

Building a lasting financial legacy is more than just accumulating wealth—it’s about creating a roadmap for your family’s future.

Yet, many families stumble in this crucial task. Common pitfalls include procrastination, poor

Your legacy isn’t just about money. It’s about family values as well.

– John B. Leeming, CFP® President at JL Bainbridge

communication, and neglecting financial education for younger generations. Some create inflexible plans that can’t adapt to life’s changes, while others overlook tax implications or focus solely on monetary assets, ignoring the value of shared principles and life lessons.

Successful legacy building starts with open family discussions

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about financial goals and values.

It involves reviewing investment strategies and following plans that cover retirement, long-term care, and even estate planning needs.

More than anything, it requires a multi-generational vision. Also important: don’t underestimate increased life expectancies or the complexities of wealth transfer.

Remember, your legacy isn’t just about money. It’s about equipping future generations with financial wisdom, shared values, and the tools to build upon what you’ve started.

Plymouth Harbor employees and their children awarded $30K in scholarships.

PETRA RIVERA STAFF WRITER

T

he late Bernard and Mildred Doyle were pillars of education at Plymouth Harbor, where they lived for 25 years.

They were inspired to give back to make education more accessible, and each year, the Doyles picked local students to support in their studies.

When they died in the 1990s, Plymouth Harbor continued their legacy by starting the Doyle Scholarship.

On behalf of the Doyle Scholarship and Northern Trust Co., the Plymouth Harbor Foundation on July 22 awarded six scholarships of $5,000 to local students who are Plymouth Harbor employees or children of employees.

Instead of giving $10,000 to one student, this is the first year that the foundation distributed $30,000 among six candidates.

Vice President of Northern Trust Michelle Pearson said it was always hard for the board of trustees to pick just one recipient. After discussing it this year, the board decided to give the opportunity to multiple students because of the great potential the candidates had.

Two employees and four children of employees were chosen as the recipients of this year’s scholarships.

The scholarship can be renewed for up to three years. All the scholarship recipients expressed their appreciation.

Tyler Dunn, who is the son of a Plymouth Harbor administrative assistant Marilyn Jennings, will be studying business management at Tallahassee Community College with the hopes of transferring to Florida State University to complete his bachelor’s degree in business.

Nyrdia Bonnaire Fils, daughter of CNA Fhadia Bonnaire Fils, will be studying business administration at Florida State University.

Chase Matilla, son of Director of Nursing at Smith Care Cen-

JL Bainbridge is an independent Sarasota-based family wealth management firm. For 43 years, they have been helping clients manage and control their financial well-being before and throughout retirement.

To learn more about JL Bainbridge, call (941) 356-3435 or visit jlbainbridge.com.

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ter Guinevere Kulie, is attending the University of South Florida to complete his bachelor’s degree in marketing and a minor in allied health.

Regina Ladron DeGuevara, the daughter of Director of Dining Services Montse Ladron DeGuevara, will be attending Allegheny College in Pennsylvania for a degree in psychology.

Edith Exantus, an LPN who has been working in Plymouth Harbor’s assisted living residences for over seven years, will be studying for her RN at Galen College of Nursing.

Bella Garcia, a CNA working at the memory care residences, will be studying for her LPN certification at Jersey College, School of ­Nursing.

Along with the Doyle Scholarships, the Plymouth Harbor Foundation has awarded $60,000 to 34 other employees and their children in 2024. This resulted in a total of $90,000.

“If I wasn’t encouraged by my coworkers here, I would not be where I am today,” said Franco Valencia, former Doyle Scholarship recipient and the new assistant director of dining services at Plymouth Harbor.

“I wouldn’t have been brave enough to have gone through school. Sometimes, people here see things that you don’t, so I am really grateful that they pushed me to apply and work hard for my dreams.”

Kathy Hendricks, Jeff Weatherhead and Kathryn Carr

Does your pool need some TLC?

Disclosure: This information is for educational and informative purposes and should not be considered a recommendation. Investment advisory services are only available to those who become our clients through a written agreement. JL Bainbridge is a registered investment adviser. J.L. Bainbridge & Co., Inc., is not a broker dealer and does not offer tax or legal advice. Please consult your tax or legal advisor for assistance regarding your individual situation. It should neither be assumed that future results will be as profitable or that a loss could not be incurred. For more information on our firm and our investment advisor representatives, please review our Form ADV, Privacy Notice, and Form CRS at jlbainbridge.com and reference the SEC website for more information on the firm and its advisors: https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/ firm/summary/108058. Identifying the SEC as our regulator does not imply any level of skill or training.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 25, 2024

19

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 25, 2024

Manatees return to Myakka Water quality and abundant food are key draws for these massive park regulars.

MIRI HARDY CONTRIBUTOR

T

he Wild and Scenic Myakka River meanders for 12 miles through Myakka River State Park, and then continues to Charlotte Bay to the south, where it flows into the Gulf of Mexico. The river therefore offers a gateway to Myakka River State Park for aquatic wildlife seeking safe refuge and food, including manatees.

Florida manatees are found in shallow, slow-moving rivers, estuaries, saltwater bays, canals and coastal areas. These gentle giants are typically nine to 10 feet long and weigh around 1,000 pounds. When water levels in the rain-fed Myakka River are high enough, manatees regularly find their way to the park. Shortly after a record period of drought-driven low water levels, manatees have already been spotted back at Myakka.

As mostly herbivorous marine mammals, manatees are known for their diet of submerged aquatic vegetation — such as seagrass. Such vegetation is rooted and grows completely under water. And, as would be expected due to their size, manatees eat a lot, consuming about 32 to 108 pounds of wet vegetation daily.

Unfortunately, poor water quality in Florida has been causing a decline in seagrass beds, leaving manatees literally starving to death. Additionally, runoff of pollutants into the Gulf of Mexico is causing repeat red tide events. These blooms coat submerged aquatic vegetation with neurotoxic algae that can poison manatees, making them seize and drown.

It is interesting to note that though manatees regularly seek refuge at Myakka River State Park, submerged

Photos by Petra Rivera

Gene Tischer, Gary Scott, Sandra Johnson and the Rev. Jeffrey Nunes

Crucial collections

Miri Hardy

Plants, such as paspalum repens, a mediumprotein aquatic grass native to Florida, provide manatees with ample, toxin-free food at Myakka.

E

aquatic vegetation is unable to grow in the sunlight-blocked blackwaters of the Myakka.

So what do the manatees eat?

On the menu is a different type of aquatic vegetation known as emergent plants.

Bridging the gap between aquatic and terrestrial habitats, the roots of emergent plants are submerged in water, while their stems and leaves emerge above the surface — hence their name. They are typically found in wetlands or along the shore.

Emergent plants offer numerous benefits, including erosion control, wildlife habitat and water purification. And for manatees, the abundant emergent plants along the banks of the Myakka River and its two lakes offer a crucial benefit: ample, toxinfree food.

Joyce Mazurek, Michelle Giannico and Jamie Engel

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

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

Follow us @FriendsOfMyakkaRiver

very Friday morning from 7 a.m. to noon, Gary Scott stands in the Florida heat outside Stillpoint Mission. He mans the produce stand, giving out 8,000 pounds of food, including fruits, vegetables, teas and juices every week.

Even though he works a full-time job, Scott never misses his volunteer shift of feeding and helping the disadvantaged people of Bradenton.

Scott stepped into the role of president a week ago, after former President Gene Tischer, 81, stepped down.

Scott is passionate about the nonprofit and is brimming with new ideas.

Longboat Island Chapel hosted Tischer and Scott for its July “Gather and Give,” a happy hour where the charitable outreach committee collects donations for local nonprofit organizations. The theme for the event was “Don’t Hoard the Toilet Paper.”

Stillpoint Mission spends about $8,000 a year on toilet paper because of the high demand for it.

Stillpoint Mission strives to help underprivileged people meet their basic needs including food, clothing, baby and adult diapers, hygiene items, children’s books and financial assistance.

— PETRA RIVERA

Becky Lietzau helps load Gary Scott’s car.

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

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 25, 2024

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

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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

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This material is based upon information that we consider to be reliable, but because it has been supplied by third parties, we cannot represent that it is accurate or complete, and it should not be relied upon as such.

The offering is subject to errors, omissions, changes, including price, or withdrawal without notice.

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FRIDAY, JULY 26

BEST BET

MUSIC BY AKIEM ESDAILE 6-9 p.m. at Whitney’s, 6990 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Akiem Esdaile will show you a new generation of jazz guitar. While at Whitney’s, enjoy the soothing sounds of Sarasota’s most refreshing jazz guitarist. Call 3834606.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 31

SOUND BATH 2-3 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Amy Steinhauser will lead a fully immersive experience using singing bowls, a gong, chimes and more. Suitable for all ages, the sound bath experience offers healing frequencies that help balance the body and mind. Advance registration is required since space is limited. Members pay $25; nonmembers pay $40. Call 3836493.

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.

Our Expertise Is Dental Implants Personalized, gentle, and comprehensive patient care is our highest priority Why Choose Us?

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Todd Reuter DMD, MD Scott Roemer DMD, MD (941) 365-3388

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TUESDAYS

sarasotaoms.com

TURNING

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.

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

425504-1

Wisdom Teeth

ter, 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.

TUESDAYS AND FRIDAYS

Patient centered solutions backed by cutting-edge technology

Teeth in one day

Petra Rivera

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.

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.

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.

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. Call 383-6493.

QIGONG From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Cen-

Proudly representing these fabulous Longboat Key properties

Dreams

your

Your trusted Longboat Key Resident REALTOR®,

JoDene Moneuse

into an ADDRESS

35 year Longboat Key Resident/Realtor 4507 Coral Blvd, Bradenton Renovated 4 bdrm/3 bath canal home | $1,195,000.

1055 Gulf of Mexico Drive #504 2BD | 2BA | 1,503 SqFt Beachfront, Turnkey, Rentals in place

$1,595,000

Celebrating 5 years on the Michael Saunders “Best of the Best” list

1065 Gulf of Mexico Drive #302

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

RARE 165ft of gorgeous beachfront property!

3341 & 3351 Gulf of Mexico Dr | $10,500,000

SOLD

UPDATED and HIGH AND DRY! 3 bdrms/2 baths on a nice canal.

550 De Narvaez Dr | $1,450,000

1125 Gulf Of Mexico Drive #402

2BD | 2BA | 1,392 SqFt Completely Updated, New Impact Windows, Covered Parking $1,250,000

1055 Gulf of Mexico Drive #605 2BD/2BA / 1,503 SqFt Penthouse level

1,790,000

$

Ready to Buy or SELL? Vacant lot in the Longboat Key Village 521A Broadway St | $750,000

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

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

941.302.4913 DEDICATED TO LUXURY REAL ESTATE Owned and operated by NRT, LLC

JoDeneMoneuse@michaelsaunders.com LongboatKeyLiving.com

Build your dream home on canal front land in Longbeach Village!

521 Broadway St | $950,000

Bringing you HOME is my Business

427370-1

Maggie Hicks, Coldwell Banker maggiehicks201@gmail.com 941.321.1759

428430-1

22

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 25, 2024

1

TOP

23

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE

%

$3.4 Billion Career Sales

IN THE WORLD

Leah Leah George George

Judy Kepecz-Hays Judy Kepecz-Hays

941-780-0597

Coldwell Banker

941-587-1700

Steven Kepecz

941-376-6411

July 25, 2024

3500 Bayou Louise LN $10,750,000 Located on the coveted northern tip of Siesta Key, this exquisite gated estate offers unparalleled views of the Gulf Coast. Boasting a spacious 6,300 square feet of living space, this meticulously designed residence features 5 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, and a wealth of amenities that epitomize coastal living. Step into luxury with a grand 40x20 pool/spa, boat lift, w/12x20 platform, ideal for enjoying the serene waters. Main level includes a primary suite with panoramic views, library, chef's kitchen equipped with top-of-the-line appliances. Spacious 4-car garage, providing ample space for vehicles and storage. Residents also enjoy exclusive access to a private, deeded beach just steps away.

Discover more at www.3500BayouLouise.com

ARIA

Open House on Sunday 07/28 from 1 to 4 pm

2251 Gulf of Mexico Dr. #204 $8,900,000

65 Lighthouse Point Drive

Better than new, this beachfront boutique enclave home offers the ultimate living experience. This luxurious 4,032 sq. ft. residence features a modern design with 3 bedrooms + office (or potential 4th bedroom) and 3.5 bathrooms. Enjoy expansive ocean views and direct beachfront access from your 3,400 sq. ft. private terrace, complete with a private pool, summer kitchen, and private stairs to the beach. With a rare 5-car garage, this exceptional beachfront home is not to be missed!

Luxury waterfront architectural masterpiece on South Longboat Key. Modern 4 bed + den/office + bonus area, 4.5 bath, 4,941 sq ft. Features include a stunning living room with fireplace, gourmet kitchen, and spacious family area opening to a pool and patio with water views. Includes a 3-car garage with ample storage and a private 40' dock on a wide protected basin with direct Gulf access.

$8,150,000

Explore more at www.65Lighthouse.com

Discover more at www.Aria204.com

L’Ambiance

Open House on Sunday 07/28 from 1 to 4 pm

415 L’Ambiance #A401 $6,254,000 Luxury living awaits at L’Ambiance on Longboat Key. Updated former model, 3 bed plus flex room, 3.5 bath, 4000 sq ft. Southwest exposure with year-round sunsets, and wraparound terraces with Gulf views. Private elevator, 10 ft ceilings, porcelain floors, gourmet kitchen. Casual elegance with endless amenities, steps from pristine beaches.

Pet-friendly.

Explore more at www.lambianceA401.com

The Water Club

11241 Gulf of Mexico Drive #105 $2,575,000

3312 Sable Cove Lane $3,380,000 Island living at its finest on Longboat Key. Lakefront home with southern exposure in Bay Isles Harborside. Features 4 en-suite bedrooms + den + bonus room, 2 half baths, totaling 5,150 sq ft. Chef's kitchen with high-end appliances and custom cabinetry. Ample space with 3-car garage. Includes deeded beach access.

Discover more at www.3312SabalCove.com

The VUE

1155 N Gulfstream Ave #1407 $2,450,000

North Siesta Key Rare beachfront and bayfront estate-size homesite on North Siesta Key! This prime property offers stunning views of downtown Sarasota, Bird Key, and Lido from its expansive 120foot private beach. Features include a deep water dock on Big Pass and 2 deeded boat slips in Bayou Louise's protected sailboat waters. Capture both sunrise and sunset.

Explore more at www.WaterClub105.com

Explore more at www.21LandsEndLane.com

Discover more at www.Vue1407.com

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

427544-1

A rare gem at The Water Club on South Longboat Key. Turnkey Stunning views await at The Vue. Furnished 2 bed, 2.5 bath, 1,665 furnished sq ft. Located on the 14th floor with 10-foot ceilings and floor-to3 bed, 2.5 bath, 2,585 sq ft. Nearly new with garden and partial ceiling glass walls showcasing 180-degree views of Sarasota and its islands, including sunrise, moonrise, and sunsets. Semi-private Gulf views. Southern exposure, 10 ft ceilings, wood flooring, and expansive terraces. Well-managed community with clubhouse, elevator access, split floor plan, concierge, social room, pool, valet parking. Southern exposure in downtown Sarasota, pet friendly.

Olympic-sized pool, tennis, and pet-friendly policies.

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 25, 2024

LONGBOAT KEY 3351 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,276 Sq. Ft. JoDene Moneuse 941-302-4913 A4611662 $10,500,000

LONGBOAT KEY 2151 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 5 3 Beds 3 Baths 3,400 Sq. Ft. Susan Alliano 941-735-6571 A4615514 $5,288,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 109 13th Street S B 9 Beds 9 Baths 5,445 Sq. Ft. Adam Cuffaro 941-812-0791 A4578003 $4,999,999

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

LONGBOAT KEY 620 Jackson Way 2 Beds 2 Baths 2,140 Sq. Ft. Cathy Meldahl, Pa 941-724-7228 A4606443 $2,950,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 515 Bayview Drive 4 Beds 3 Baths 2,928 Sq. Ft. Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4610173 $2,699,000

LONGBOAT KEY 6940 Longboat Drive S 3 Beds 2 Baths 2,550 Sq. Ft. Bill Anderson 941-313-4059 A4602353 $2,250,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 303 68th Street 4 Beds 3 Baths 1,729 Sq. Ft. Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4578683 $2,249,000

LONGBOAT KEY 2185 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 212 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,448 Sq. Ft. The Walter Group 941-809-0907 A4600599 $1,999,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3605 Fair Oaks Place 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,713 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy & Gail Wittig 941-961-8850 A4578278 $1,625,000

LONGBOAT KEY 749 Penfield Street 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,905 Sq. Ft. Tammy Kitt 941-284-7274 N6131408 $1,475,000

LONGBOAT KEY 1000 Longboat Club Rd Unit 603 603 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,409 Sq. Ft. Jenine Meyer 941-266-8303 A4608728 $1,285,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 524 56th Street 2 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,337 Sq. Ft. Steven Schield 941-650-1010 A4614652 $1,250,000

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

SARASOTA 988 Blvd Of The Arts 311 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,555 Sq. Ft. Dana Westmark 941-356-5091 A4607057 $1,190,000

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

LONGBOAT KEY 2110 Harbourside Drive 547 3 Beds 2 Baths 2,039 Sq. Ft. The Walter Group 941-809-0907 A4595861 $998,850

SARASOTA 11 Sunset Drive 404 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,433 Sq. Ft. Barbara Dumbaugh 941-951-6660 A4591041 $875,000

HOLMES BEACH 5608 Gulf Drive 108 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,092 Sq. Ft. Kathy Bergloff 941-962-0309 A4585838 $830,000

BRADENTON 3512 115th Street W 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,631 Sq. Ft. Ralph & Megg Faillace 941-713-9142 A4577102 $799,000

LONGBOAT KEY 831 Bayport Way 831 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,456 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy & Gail Wittig 941-961-8850 A4601460 $749,000

LONGBOAT KEY 4350 Chatham Drive E108 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,092 Sq. Ft. Sean Clark 941-312-1146 A4616367 $729,000

LONGBOAT KEY 730 Spanish Drive S 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,405 Sq. Ft. Sean Clark 941-312-1146 A4585691 $559,900

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 600 Manatee Avenue 140 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,179 Sq. Ft. Laura Navratil 941-806-7436 A4616728 $519,900

LONGBOAT KEY 4310 Falmouth Drive A205 1 Bed 1 Baths 747 Sq. Ft. Malihe Karimi 941-376-5099 A4615749 $469,000

ANNA MARIA 242 Oak Avenue 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,722 Sq. Ft. Kathy Harman 941-900-9828 A4616540 $9,789,500

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 110 10th Street S 7 Beds 5/2 Baths 5,052 Sq. Ft. Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4600468 $9,249,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 915 N Shore Drive 4 Beds 4 Baths 2,870 Sq. Ft. Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4582727 $5,950,000

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM 427581-1

24

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 25, 2024

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

JULY 8-12

ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR

A

home in Lighthouse Point tops all transactions in this week’s real estate.

Charles and Mary Kubicki sold their home at 80 Lighthouse Point Drive to Rajesh Soin and Indu Soin, trustees, of Longboat Key, for $10.8 million. Built in 2000, it has five bedrooms, five-and-a-half baths, a pool and 6,976 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.05 million in 1999.

BAYVIEW ESTATES

Kathryn Gold, trustee, of Longboat Key, sold the home at 648 Bayview Drive to Timothy Peterson and Mary Karen Peterson, of Carmel, Indiana, for $4 million. Built in 1969, it has four bedrooms, threeand-a-half baths, a pool and 4,157 square feet of living area. It sold for $595,000 in 1993.

LIDO

Mark Flannagan and Tammy Wyman sold their home at 1100 Westway Drive to Doug Ewertsen, of Sarasota, for $3,648,200. Built in 1972, it has three bedrooms, threeand-a-half baths, a pool and 2,441 square feet of living area. It sold for $940,000 in 2018.

BAY ISLES

Raymond and Jennifer Zaborney, of Sarasota, and Lisa Stone, of New Cumberland, Pennsylvania, sold their home at 3381 Bayou Sound to Thomas and Paula Flaherty, of Longboat Key, for $2.4 million.

Built in 1982, it has four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and 3,321 square feet of living area. It sold for $2.15 million in 2021.

JOHN RINGLING ESTATES

Louis and Patricia Donzelli, of Lake Grove, New York, sold their home at 117 N. Washington Drive to Christopher and Joanna Dobson, of Leesburg, Virginia, for $1,825,000. Built in 1955, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,255 square feet of living area. It sold for $650,000 in 2010.

SLEEPY LAGOON PARK

Anthony Rich and Margaret Somers Rich, of Sarasota, sold their home

REAL ESTATE

Lighthouse Point home tops sales at $10.8 million

25

Courtesy images

Charles and Mary Kubicki sold their home at 80 Lighthouse Point Drive to Rajesh Soin and Indu Soin, trustees, of Longboat Key, for $10.8 million

at 710 Penfield St. to Richard and Mary Kay Smallcombe, of Longboat Key, for $1.75 million. Built in 1995, it has two bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 3,543 square feet of living area. It sold for $905,000 in 2003.

BEACHPLACE

Match-Tech Enterprises Inc. sold the Unit 502 condominium at 1145 Gulf of Mexico Drive to SRBF LLC for $1.5 million. Built in 1980, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,392 square feet of living area. It sold for $826,000 in 2018.

THE CASTILLIAN

RDG Castillian Holdings I LLC sold the Unit 105 condominium at 4525 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Thomas Paulantonio Jr., of Mystic, Connecticut, for $1.2 million. Built in 1979, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,398 square feet of living area. It sold for $605,000 in 2018.

LONGBOAT KEY

Timothy and Suzanne Belew, of Cooperstown, New York, sold their home at 783 Tarawitt Drive to Ann Giles, trustee, of Tampa, for $1.14 million. Built in 1973, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,113 square feet of living area. It sold for $410,000 in 2015.

In with the new NOW TAKING CONTRACTS

BUTTONWOOD COVE

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

Anne Louise Rizzuto, of Duxbury, Massachusetts, sold her Unit 204 condominium at 3540 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Eric and Nancy Jensen, of Spring Lake, Michigan, for $645,000. Built in 1980, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,284 square feet of living area. It sold for $325,000 in 2011.

TOP BUILDING PERMITS

DOWNTOWN SARASOTA

These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of July 12-18 in order of dollar amounts.

LONGBOAT KEY Address

Permit

Applicant

Amount

554 Jessmyth Drive

Alt/Renovation

MCJR Property

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

$500,000

Holding Ll

6989 Longboat Drive S.

Alt/Renovation

Steven Rippy

$200,000

574 Norton St.

Electrical

John Sizemore

$198,000

New Construction 510 Chipping Lane

Alt/Renovation

Therese Dixon

$175,000

2932 Gulf of Mexico Drive

Building — Other

Wayne Greene

$150,000

4141 Gulf of Mexico Drive

Re-roof

Continentals Sea Club I

$131,500

5155 Gulf of Mexico Drive

Re-roof

Sarasota Outrigger Cond

$110,497

3554 Fair Oaks Lane

Alt/Renovation

Nicholas Gladding

$99,490

5155 Gulf of Mexico Drive

Re-roof

Sarasota Outrigger Cond

$81,595

540 Bowsprit Lane

Dock/Seawall/Lift Manuel Garcia

$77,375

5055 Gulf of Mexico Drive

Alt/Renovation

$70,162

Julie Zussman

Unit 524 1055 Gulf of Mexico Drive #402 Windows/Doors

Judith E. Litvin Fourth Am

$69,298

50 Lighthouse Point Drive

Rajesh Soin

$60,000

Swimming Pool /Spa

604 Bayport Way

Alt/Renovation

Laura & Timothy Foote

$54,110

569 Kingfisher Lane

Mechanical

Christopher Price

$47,000

Gerald King

$38,000

Judi Winfree

$27,358

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

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

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

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

New Construction 535 Sanctuary Drive #C806

Mechanical Alt/Renovation Windows/Doors

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

Unit 705 Source: Town of Longboat Key

Prices as of November 2023

427633-1

4401 Gulf of Mexico Drive

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 25, 2024

T H E G R O U P

Rene DiPinto

John Schafer

Tracey Stetler

Patrick DiPinto

Janette Schafer

Steven Moore

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 | LONGBOAT KEY $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

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

4136 HIGEL AVE | SIESTA KEY $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 | LONGBOAT KEY $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

405 28TH STREET | ANNA MARIA ISLAND $3,600,000 – 3,735 Sq. Ft. 5 Beds 4 Baths 80’ of Waterfront Contact: Steven Moore 401-767-7180

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

3621 SAN REMO TER | SARASOTA $9,750,000 – Under Construction 5 Beds 7 Baths 5,328 Sq. Ft. 400’ Wide Bay Inlet Contact: Patrick DiPinto 941-323-0033

1212 CENTER PLACE | LIDO SHORES $6,995,000 – New Construction 5 Beds 6 Baths 4750 Sq. Ft. Rooftop Terrace and Private Beach Contact: Steven Moore 401-767-7180

6489 GULFSIDE ROAD | LONGBOAT KEY $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.

425711-1

26

YourObserver.com

27

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 25, 2024

SUNRISE / SUNSET

FRIDAY, JULY 26

WEATHER

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

FORECAST

Sunrise Sunset

High: 90 Low: 79 Chance of rain: 36%

Thursday, July 25

6:50a

8:23p

Friday, July 26

6:51a

8:22p

Saturday, July 27

6:51a

8:21p

Sunday, July 28

6:51a

8:21p

SATURDAY, JULY 27

Monday, July 29

6:52a

8:20p

High: 90 Low: 80 Chance of rain: 31%

Tuesday, July 30

6:53a

8:20p

Wednesday, July 31

6:54a

8:19p

MOON PHASES SUNDAY, JULY 28 High: 89 Low: 79 Chance of rain: 55%

July 27 Last

Aug. 4 New

Aug. 12 First

Aug. 19 Full

TIDES Highs Lows

Patrick Bogert took this photo of a heron waiting for a catch near a fishing dock on Longboat Key.

Thursday, July 25

4:26a

3:42p

10:13a

11:08p

Friday, July 26

4:49a

4:48p

11:25a

11:38p

Saturday, July 27

5:19a

6:08p

—

12:43p

Sunday, July 28

5:56a

8:22p

12:04a

2:07p

Monday, July 29

6:41a

—

12:15a

3:32p

Tuesday, July 30

7:36a

—

—

4:50p

Wednesday, July 31

8:37a

—

—

5:53p

Submit your photos at YourObserver.com/contests. All submissions will be entered for the 2024-25. Weather and Nature photo contest. In February 2025, you will vote for your favorite photo, and the submission with the most votes will win a $500 gift card.

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

Daily crossword puzzles available at YourObserver.com/crossword

WHAT A FEELING by Gary Larson, edited by Jeff Chen 115 Irving protagonist

52 Item in a makeup kit

116 Fashions

53 Chinese book of divina-

117 Holds the deed

tion

118 Destination for NASA’s

55 Pond hopper

Artemis program

56 Move away

119 City on the Skunk

57 Hindered, as growth

DOWN

58 CCCP state

2 Important presidential primary caucus site 3 Stairway part 4 Examine by touch, in a doctor’s office 5 Big to-do 6 Parts of the brain 7 Apple product introduced in 2010 8 Rap backwards?

9 Gesture with the fingers 10 Touches

13 “We have the OK” 14 Brought up to speed 15 Street of nightmares 16 Jack and Jill’s container 17 Not deceived by 18 Palindromic Easter candy

1 Tendril of smoke 5 Freudian error 9 Heist target, often 13 Frozen treat on a stick 19 Little bit 20 Lola’s club, in song 21 Aid in a crime

35 Chest tube

62 Cheesesteak capital

during a midlife crisis?

38 It comes before Novem-

64 *Anxiety around attend-

93 High point

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ing a church gathering?

94 Drive in Beverly Hills

39 *Unscrupulous used-car 68 Larval and Oedipal

95 Get around

dealer’s nefarious enthu-

70 Word before meenie

96 Cytoplasm holder

siasm?

71 Citrus peel

97 Coffee entrepreneur

43 *Sense of ease with one’s 72 Evian or Perrier

Alfred

putter?

73 Left

99 Humor magazine featur-

75 Would-be helpers of

ing Alfred E. Neuman

Humpty Dumpty

102 “We’re number ___!”

48 Lb. portions

79 Most abundant

103 Spiced tea

49 Double-crossers

81 Homer Simpson’s

104 Constitutional monar-

50 Kind of rally

neighbor

chy in SE Asia

22 University in New Orleans 46 Red October and others 47 Add stars to a movie 23 *Despondency after a long pub crawl?

26 Hebrew or Arab 27 Came about 28 Dead-end jobs 29 Architect’s PC program for blueprints 30 Prune, as a tree branch 31 Sits in the cellar 32 Butter portions 33 Cowpoke’s charge

51 Smith and Jones, at times 82 Speck

108 Barnard grad, e.g.

54 Behaved disrespectfully

83 “Much ___ About Noth-

110 *Prime minister of Eng-

in an old movie, say

ing”

land’s bouts of depression

57 Exceptionally cruel to

84 Billy bookcase maker

during WWII?

others

85 Big name in bug spray

112 Pasta name that means

59 Consume

87 *Vinyl collector’s eupho-

“small wheels”

60 ___ Martin (cognac)

ria in finding a rare album?

113 Bench sharer with Felix

61 Part of LGBTQIA+

90 *Passion rediscovered

114 “That makes sense”

24 One avoiding animal products 25 Come to a stop 29 Global telecom corp.

32 Photos 33 Belle of the ball 34 Miller of “The Flash” 35 In awe 36 Ricelike pasta 37 Musical symbol 38 “___ class is tough” (Teen Talk Barbie phrase) 39 Like a wolf 40 Art stands 41 Take second, in a way 42

Cross

44 Beginnings for jokes 45 Breezy class 46 Put under 50 Acted like it was 1999, perhaps

SGWXB RW DZ T VZMJZ TR TX RNZ NMXIO WK RNZ LXTJZGOZ RW RMYZ PMGZ WK RNMR AZGOWX.”

65 Director Spike or Ang

VMXM AMGGTVVM

66 Primary rival for Hillary 67 ___-Lay (snack maker) 68 Printing flourish 69 Japanese drum 74 Went boldly 75 Roundhouse, e.g.

76 “___ in Manhattan” (Jennifer Lopez movie) 77 Drop-off spot?

“FH FYGMAU GYIS FA T ZVL SVJNTJE CAXYUA T ZVL CYUJ. LMA NYPIS XAAI FH GYAL GVOOTJE ZTISIH TJLTSA MAU XYU FYJGML.”

78 NYC neighborhood

ETJEAU UYEAUL

82 Ground corn 86 “___ Maria” 87 Boomer, to young whippersnappers 88 Existential ___ (angst) 89 Sweaty practice

“JEM PCXCY RBFC JEMY OBPZ OEY NYBPRCW. JEM BAKBJZ BIIYCDUBRC RVCT CXCYJ ZVEK, PUNVR UP, PUNVR EMR.”

91 De Carlo of “The Munsters” 92 Porches in Poipu 93 Oyster irritants, eventually 96 Make butter 97 Diet heavy in meats

© 2024 NEA, Inc.

DEMPRYJ ZUPNCY AMFC HYJBP Puzzle Three Clue: I equals P

12 Space travelers (Abbr.)

ACROSS

“TK OWDZWXZ IWZO OWDZRNTXB

80 Unwanted kind of mail

11 Costs

©2024 Universal Uclick

64 UFO shape

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: J equals N

1 In the company of

63 Mil. roadside hazards

celebrity cipher

Puzzle One Clue: L equals U

crossword

The Grounded Feeling Everyone will Enjoy

426212-1

at MANASOTA FLOORING INC

sudoku

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

98 Barkin of “Animal Kingdom” 99 Where Perseverance landed in 2021 100 Bunches 101 Obligation 103 Plug 104 Japanese soup 105 Skinny-dipped 106 Memo heading 107 Egyptian snakes 109 Dot follower for the armed forces 110 Company VIP 111 Gender pronoun ©2024 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

7-25-24

Made for where you live. Here!

THURSDAY, JULY 25, 2024

RED PAGES real estate

home services

Condos/Apts. for Sale

Adult Care Services

DEADLINES: Classifieds - Monday at 2PM Service Directory - Friday at 3PM • PAYMENT: Cash, Check or Credit Card The Longboat Observer reserves the right to classify and edit copy, or to reject or cancel an advertisement at any time. Corrections after first insertion only. *All ads are subject to the approval of the Publisher. *It is the responsibility of the party placing any ad for publication in the Longboat Observer to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance with towncodes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property.

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

Merchandise Wanted 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

YourObserver.com/RedPages

Items Under $200

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

Help Wanted

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

CALL TODAY 941-955-4888

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

Call 941-383-3338.

Painting

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

Free House Calls.

Discrete/ Confidential. Call David 813-439-2694

CASH FOR YOUR CAR We come to you!

Ho Ho Buys cars.

941-270-4400.

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.

SEARCH

RED PAGES for great deals.

Visit

Between Houses or Condos Reservations 941-383-5577 wagnerlbkrentals@gmail.com Visa/MC 5360 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Suite Longboat Key, FL 34228 M-F

Competitive pay, paid time off and health insurance available

TREASURES FOUND HERE!

Beachfront, Bayfront and In

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

*This position must be performed in the office. No remote work is available.

YourObserver.com/RedPages

SEASONAL RATES

101

Please email your resume and WPM typing speed for immediate consideration to kboothroyd@businessobserverfl. com. Please also specify your available date to start.

You’re only cheating yourself.

Merchandise Wanted

Autos Wanted

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

peekers’ place

BURGUNDY LEATHER RECLINER(manual) $100 Off-white fabric recliner $75 White Rug (11x15), Like New $75 Multicolored area rug (5x8) $50 Outdoor glass top table, w/ 4 chairs (Navy) $150 Dining room glass top pedestal table & 5 chairs. $200 Call 941-807-0429

auto

Furnishings

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.

RED PAGES

Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals

WEEKLY MONTHLY 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

Advertise your business or service in the Observer

Ask about our special rates!

Wagner Realty Since 1939 www.rentalsonlongboat.com

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

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

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

Advertise your business Honest reliable.

Observer or service in&the Free estimates. 941-744-1020.

35+ years experience.

RED PAGES Transportation

Call for a FREE Evaluation!

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

TOP NOTCH CALLTRANSPORTATION TODAY Airport Taxi Service 941-955-4888

Auto Transport

Island to SRQ- $45 Island to Tampa- $90 Add XL- $20

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

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

Luxury cars • Over 8,000 trips Regular Hours • Never Late!

Doctors Appts. • All Rides on the Gulf Coast

941-718-9933

Painting

www.topnotchtransportation service.com

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

Residential & Commercial.

Fully Insured.

CALL or TEXT Don 941-900-9398

This week’s Crossword answers

Windows WINDOW CLEANING Commercial & Residential Monthly / Quarterly service We are the Best. Fully Insured.

Call/Text Don @ 941-900-9398

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “If someone does something wrong to me I leave it in the hands of the universe to take care of that person.”

Lana Parrilla Puzzle Two Solution: “My mother told me I was dancing before I was born. She could feel my toes tapping wildly inside her for months.”

Ginger Rogers Puzzle Three Solution: “You never take your fans for granted. You always appreciate them every show, night in, night out.”

Country singer Luke Bryan

This week’s Sudoku answers

©2024 Universal Uclick

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

©2024 NEA, Inc.

941-955-4888

jobs

stuff

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

THE MEADOWS GOLF &CC

The CRYSTAL choice!

The CRYSTAL CLEARCLEAR choice!

INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888

redpages@yourobserver.com • yourobserver.com/redpages

YourObserver.com

29

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 25, 2024

Alterations/Upholstery

Handyman

Painting

Nora’s KEENS HANDYMAN SERVICES SARASOTA PAINTING, LLC Fabrics TEXT OR CALL 574-354-7772 KEENS HANDYMAN SERVICES

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

Do You Have Neck or Low Back Pain?

Do You Want To Avoid Surgery?

Attorney

Divorce without Lawyers

Roofing

Give Us a Call - We Can Help

Kenneth Fuhlman Inc.

FREE CONSULTATION 941.358.2224

Building & Roofing Contractor

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

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.

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

Board Certified in the specialty of non-surgical spinal decompression

DR. DAVID CIFRA, DC

941-626-3194

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

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

We have mediated divorces involving up to 15 million dollars of assets over past 30 years.

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.com

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

BLACK LABEL CAR SERVICE

Luxury for Less

941-248-4734

Home Watch

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

428028

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

chrome_qrcode_1671726737617.png

Transportation

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

William J. Leininger, JD

428041

FULLY INSURED • OWNER OPERATED

GET YOUR LIFE BACK!

M-F 10 to 4 / Sat 10 to 1

10% off YOUR BUSINESS GROW

CARING HANDS WHILE YOU’RE AWAY FROM HOME.

SELL YOUR CAR!

Windows

Serving Longboat Key Since 2005

427913

941-281-5539 | kathy@longboatkeyhomewatch.com

Res. | Com. | Lic. | Ins.

Insurance

5-Star Rated

428024

MIC INSURANCE

Contractor

Professional Contractors Network, Inc.

Let our Network Handle All your Building Needs

EXPERIENCE KNOWLEDGE SOLUTIONS

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

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

428043

Construction Estimating • Custom Homes Design Build • Restaurants-New/Remodels Office Remodels • Financing Email Project Information: PCNestimating@gmail.com 941-527-9414

Home • Condo • Auto • Umbrella • Boat • Flood

Trades welcome to join our network! Please send email

428016

NEED HELP?

Find business and service professionals in the Red Pages.

To advertise: 941-955-4888

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

CALL TODAY FOR PEACE OF MIND.

WE COME TO YOU

HoHoBuysCars.com

WITH THE RED PAGES

Exclusively serving Longboat Key residents.

Storm-ready home preparations Handyman & concierge services

FAST • EASY • SAFE

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

1/1

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

428029

428023

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

Auto Service

941.270.4400

Interior / Exterior / Cabinets.

Health

428015

Insurance

SECUR-ALL INSURANCE AGENCY

Sandra Smith | 941.383.3388

510 BAY ISLES ROAD, SUITE 1 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL (Next to SUNTRUST BANK)

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

TREASURES FOUND HERE!

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

428025

428695

7300 Manatee Ave W Beachway Plaza (941) 545.7319

428026

& UPHOLSTERY

428315

INTERIOR RENOVATIONS & ANYTHING FROM THE GROUND UP

30

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JULY 25, 2024

AY WE P

3IS% TO SION

L M COM ESSIONA F S PRO ROKER CO-B

535 SANCTUARY DRIVE #C507

$3,295,000

This direct Gulf-front, furnished getaway is located on the 5th-floor of coveted Building IV, immediately ready to make your own. Spectacular direct views through walls of new impact windows and sliders of the Gulf and lush community grounds, stretching out to Longboat Key Club’s golf course, Sarasota Bay, and downtown’s city skyline are the perfect introduction to this 3BR beach-to-bay getaway. www.535SanctuaryC507.com

4317 MARINA VIEW WAY

B U YE R’ S B U YE R’ S

$3,500,000

B U YE R’ S

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. Includes deeded access to private beach! www.3464MistletoeLane.com

3825 SARASOTA GOLF CLUB BLVD

$1,799,000

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

$1,395,000

251 COSMOPOLITAN COURT

$925,000

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 B U YE R’ S

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 B U YE R’ S

$1,695,000

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

3464 MISTLETOE LANE

TO

B U YE R’ S

3060 GRAND BAY BOULEVARD #152

$4,695,000

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

TO

B U YE R’ S

$1,950,000

This turnkey furnished, 3BR residence is the pinnacle of coastal living that offers both luxury and sustainability just a short walk from the beaches of Anna Maria Island. www.4207MarinaView.com

TO

B U YE R’ S TO

$1,495,000

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

4322 MARINA VIEW WAY

$1,245,000

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. 417319-1

H U N T ER S P OIN T

4207 MARINA VIEW WAY

TO

B U YE R’ S TO

$1,695,000

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

4305 MARINA VIEW WAY

$4,495,000

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

TO

B U YE R’ S TO

$3,495,000

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

380 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #513

201 NORTH WASHINGTON DRIVE

6923 WESTCHESTER CIRCLE

TO

B U YE R’ S

$4,495,000

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

601 LOTUS LANE

$7,999,000

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

TO

B U YE R’ S TO

1300 BEN FRANKLIN DRIVE #504

500 HARBOR POINT ROAD

TO

B U YE R’ S

$15,000,000

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

TO

6603 GULFSIDE ROAD

TO

TO

B U YE R’ S

WE PAY 3% COMMISSION ON OUR LISTINGS TO BUYER’S AGENTS