Longboat Observer 9.5.24

LONGBOAT

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Observer

Longboat Key’s weekly newspaper since 1978

PAGE 20

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

VOLUME 47, NO. 3

YOUR TOWN

At the top of the list As they come back from summer break, commissioners set priorities for this budget year. PAGE 3

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Blaire holds her new baby sister, Brynn Rosemary Slansky.

Longboat Key’s youngest resident This fall, Longboat Key will welcome back the usual snowbirds, but also one of the island’s youngest new residents.

Born on Aug. 1 in Illinois, Brynn Rosemary Slansky weighed 7 pounds 13 ounces.

She was welcomed to the family by mother Elise Kidd Slansky, father Blake Slansky and 2-year-old sister Blaire.

About a month old now, baby Brynn is doing great and Blaire is working on being a big sister.

Elise Kidd Slansky said she and the family are looking forward to returning to Longboat Key in a couple of months and possibly taking the title of youngest Key resident — at least for a little while.

CATCHING THE WIND Kids set sail in Annual Labor Day Regatta. SEE PAGE 19

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Cliff Hornsby at his “Gerry Atric” show.

Ian Swaby

Ava Crotty of Manatee River Youth Sailing at the annual Labor Day Regatta. The two-day event was off to a promising start Aug. 31 with favorable weather and propulsive winds.

Gerry Atric enters the ring Gerry Atric is revving up his walker and tightening up his jokes.

Longboat’s resident comedian Cliff Hornsby, more commonly known as “Gerry Atric,” is taking on Florida’s Funniest Comedian Contest.

After sending a video with his favorite jokes to the judges, Hornsby was selected to compete in the 10th annual Florida’s Funniest Comedian Contest for the section hosted at McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre.

Watch our very own Longboater Hornsby in action at the contest at 7 p.m. on Sept. 25 at McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre.

Visit McCurdysComedy.com.

A+E

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$1.00

About $3.5 million needs to be raised to fund enhancements to Longboat Key’s planned library.

PAGE TURNER

Town, LBK Foundation hopeful for library fundraising to continue this fall. SEE PAGE 5

Summer travels.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

WEEK OF SEPT. 5, 2024

“I think we’re going to have to go longer than this month, which was the original plan.”

Local officials organize forum for legislative candidates

Town Manager Howard Tipton talking about fundraising for the $3.5 million library enhancements. Read more on page 5

The ManaSota League of Cities will soon host a public forum for the legislative representative candidates qualified to run in the November 2024 General Election.

The league meets regularly every other month and is composed of local municipalities from Manatee and Sarasota counties, including the town of Longboat Key, the city of Holmes Beach and the city of Venice.

At 1 p.m. on Sept. 13, the league will host a forum for the league members and residents to understand the stances of the legislative candidates from Manatee and Sarasota counties.

The forum will be held at the DoubleTree Inn by Hilton located at 8009 15th St. E. in Sarasota.

Residents and local business owners are invited to attend the forum to hear from the candidates.

Anyone interested is asked to RSVP to Stephanie Garcia at SGarcia@ LongboatKey.org.

BY THE NUMBERS 3

The number of boat lifts the Longboat Key Police Department now has on the island.

PAGE 6

$3.5 MILLION

The amount, in dollars, needed to fund the enhancements for the planned Sarasota County library on Longboat Key. PAGE 5

Frontier adds SRQ route to Cincinnati

76

The number of years the Sarasota Sailing Squadron’s Annual Labor Day Regatta has existed.

PAGE 19

Jim DeLa

The crimes took place early Tuesday morning in the 700 block of South Boulevard of the Presidents.

CALENDAR

n Town Commission Meeting — Monday, Sept. 9 at 1 p.m. n Town Commission Budget Hearing — Monday, Sept. 9 at 5:01 p.m. n Special Magistrate Hearing — Wednesday, Sept. 11 at 10 a.m. n ManaSota League of Cities Meeting — Thursday, Sept. 12 at 9:30 a.m.

Police investigate deaths on Lido Key

T

wo men staying at a home on Lido Key killed each other during an argument Tuesday, the Sarasota Police Department said.

The two victims, ages 34 and 50, were discovered dead in the home in the 700 block of South Boulevard of the Presidents by people with access to the home at about 9 a.m., Sarasota Police spokeswoman Cynthia McFarland said.

As the medical examiner was finishing up his investigation at the scene Tuesday afternoon,

McFarland said the two men were in town for work and staying at the residence.

From surveillance video, police were able to view from inside and outside the home, “They got into some sort of argument. It appears they did end up taking each others’ lives,” she said.

Exactly how they killed each other has not yet been determined, McFarland said. No guns were recovered, but “we have recovered a knife from the scene,” she said. She added

it was not being considered a murder-suicide.

The cause of death will not be officially determined until after autopsies are performed.

Neighbors walking along the street were stopping to look as crime scene tape surrounded the home.

Sally Esser said the scene was upsetting. “It’s horrible to just witness this whole thing going on,” she said. “It’s a little scary.”

Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport will add another new route to its offerings this fall. Beginning Oct. 12, low-fare carrier Frontier Airlines will begin new nonstop service to and from Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport. It will be the airline’s third route available at SRQ. Frontier also offered promotional introductory fare starting at $29, providing tickets were purchased prior to midnight, Sept. 2.

“We are excited that Frontier Airlines will be introducing nonstop service this fall between SarasotaBradenton International Airport and Cincinnati,” said SRQ President and CEO Rick Piccolo. “This new addition will enhance Frontier’s current offerings from SRQ to Cleveland and Philadelphia.”

— JIM DELA

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OUR AR E A: W HAT ’S HAPPENING

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File photos

A funding source is one of the challenges in developing a canal maintenance program.

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L L A F O D TO T S I L CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

T

his summer was no different from most other Longboat Key summers — fewer tourists, no traffic and high temperatures. Year-round Longboaters don’t mind most of those things, though.

There was also a lack of Town Commission meetings as the commissioners took their usual summer recess starting June 29.

When Longboat Key’s town commissioners return to work Sept. 9, there will be plenty of upcoming projects to keep them busy. From major utility projects to furthering conceptual designs, there are a couple of big things that will be on the commissioners’ to-do list this fall.

SUBAQUEOUS FORCE MAIN PROJECT

The subaqueous wastewater force main project is one that can’t wait any longer.

In 2020, the force main experienced a fracture on the mainland portion of the pipe, which caused a sewer spill.

The town completed a slip-line rehabilitation of the mainland portion in May 2023 for $2.72 million, but the portion of the pipe under Sarasota Bay still needs to be replaced.

The price tag for this is $31.4 million.

Construction is slated for fall 2025, but first, to fund the project, the town will need to incur some debt.

That debt would be paid back over time by using town utility rates.

At the June 28 commission meeting, commissioners opted to go with the Clean Water State Revolving Fund Loan Program as a funding source. The loan would have an annual interest rate of about 2.89% and a total cost of $37.6 million, with a 20-year term and a $1.9 million annual payment.

This loan option presented the lowest interest rate and overall cost but will require a referendum for voters to approve the debt. If the

Back: Commissioners Penny Gold, Gary Coffin, B.J. Bishop, Debra Williams and Sarah Karon. Front: Vice Mayor Mike Haycock and Mayor Ken Schneier

Fall priorities for Longboat Key commissioners include big infrastructure projects and how to fund them.

A photograph of the pipe lying on its side at the town of Longboat Key’s Public Works Department. The breach was in the bottom invert of the pipe.

UTILITIES UNDERGROUNDING PROJECT

referendum fails to pass, the town would use revenue bonds as the backup option.

The referendum will take place in the March 2025 election, so Town Manager Howard Tipton said the public can expect public hearings this fall for the referendum prior to the vote.

CANAL MAINTENANCE FUNDING

It’s been 20 years since most of Longboat Key’s canals were dredged, and town staff are working on a new maintenance program.

The program was first brought up in November 2023, but a $16.8 million price tag and confusing funding methodology prompted commissioners to advise staff to resurvey the canals and look for ways to reduce the cost.

In June, Assistant Public Works Director Charlie Mopps was joined by a new firm, First Line Coastal, to present to commissioners the updated canal surveys. With updated data, the cost to get the canals back to baseline was estimated at $9.25 million.

To start the program by dredging canals bit by bit, Tipton and staff recommended assessing a 0.0570 millage to generate $500,000 in Fiscal Year 2025. Commissioners expressed concern over assessing a millage without public outreach beforehand, and the additional millage was taken off of the budget. Staff used $500,000 in reserves to pay for the first batch of dredging this upcoming year.

Tipton said this will come back to commissioners in the fall to further develop a maintenance program and discuss a millage moving forward.

Following commission discussions, Tipton said there will be some community meetings in early 2025 to educate the public on the project and the need for the assessment.

LONGBOAT’S PUBLIC LIBRARY

The public library on Longboat Key, funded and operated by Sarasota County, is going to happen. Whether the library will include enhancements, though, is still up for debate.

Sarasota County Libraries is covering the bill for the $11.1 million to build the core library, a 10,000-square-foot space on the Town Center Green. There was also the option to include an expanded meeting room for $2 million and a terrace for $1.5 million.

This summer, the Longboat Key Foundation was tasked with raising the $3.5 million for the library

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

enhancements. Naming rights were also a possibility if a donor contributed at least 25% of the project cost.

However, fundraising over the summer wasn’t easy for the LBK Foundation, and the $3.5 million target wasn’t hit by the original deadline of the end of August.

Tipton said he believes that Sarasota County has a willingness to work with the town on the deadline and can work with an extended timeline for fundraising (see Page 5).

BROADWAY ROUNDABOUT

The Broadway roundabout project, which has been in discussion since 2014, was recently put on pause because of inflated costs.

In June, Brownman updated commissioners on the project’s cost, which was $3 million higher than originally expected. The original design for the project in 2023 reached 90% completion when the Florida Department of Transportation raised concern over the banking, or elevation, of the roadway. A complete redesign was necessary, costing the town $158,000.

At the June meeting, where Brownman updated commissioners on the new design, he said the new design also came with a higher cost estimate of about $5.6 million, which would be closer to $6 million when including construction, engineering and inspection costs. Originally, the town anticipated the project to cost between $2 million to $2.5 million.

That said, the town had $2.8 million committed from its own funds, FDOT and Manatee County, but it still wouldn’t be enough for the town to cover the remaining $3 million with the new design.

Commissioners advised Brownman to go back to the FDOT to inquire about resurveys of the roundabout and see if there were possible alternatives, such as a traffic signal.

Brownman said he would tell FDOT that the roundabout project has gotten “too big” and out of scale and would return to the commission this fall with updates.

GULFSIDE ROAD BEACH NOURISHMENT

Before the commission left for recess, it heard from Mopps and Al Browder with Olsen Associates about the issues that are mounting for Gulfside Road’s historically erosive beach.

If the pattern continues, the erosion could continue farther up the beach and impact the property owners along the 2,500 feet of Gulfside Road beach. Browder warned that this could lead to a domino effect down the island’s shoreline.

Erosion is naturally occurring, but Browder said that the seawalls on that strip of shoreline — notably the Ohana estate seawall at 6633 Gulf of Mexico Drive — have caused it to worsen.

Mopps and Browder told commissioners that, to address the issues, a short-term solution would be an interim beach nourishment that could cost somewhere between $4 million and $4.5 million. Browder also presented an idea for a condensed groin field, though that would have a longer time frame.

The interim beach nourishment will happen this fall, according to a memo from Mopps to Tipton. The project will place about 80,000 cubic yards of sand from the Gulfside Road Public Beach Access to the Ohana estate seawall and will include dune planting.

Bids for the project came in lower than expected, and the lowest responsive bidder was chosen at a price of $2.5 million. This falls within the $2.9 million that the town previously budgeted for the project. At least 27% of the project would be funded by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection as part of a cost-sharing initiative, and there is a possibility that the amount could be higher.

According to Mopps’ memo, mobilization for the project could start in mid-October and last through the rest of 2024 based on a preliminary schedule.

Though the utilities undergrounding project is out of the commissioners’ control, it is a major project that is expected to wrap up this fall.

Hurricane Debby did not cause major disruptions to the project, and Florida Power & Light remains on target to complete switching to the underground system in October, according to an update from Director of Public Works Isaac Brownman that was emailed to commissioners in August.

Brownman also said in this update that FPL remains committed to a more streamlined switching order process to ensure the project is completed in this timeframe. FPL also previously committed to removing all overhead poles by Dec. 31.

Another update on the project is expected at the commission’s first meeting back on Sept. 9.

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FAA discusses flight path change over LBK

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The Federal Aviation Administration admitted fault for not communicating a flight path change in a recent meeting between local and FAA officials.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

W

hile the flight path over Longboat Key might not revert back to its original pattern, a recent meeting between Town Manager Howard Tipton and aviation officials left the impression that it could be pushed closer to the original route.

On Aug. 20, Tipton met with seven officials from the Federal Aviation Administration and Lionel Guilbert, senior vice president of operations and public safety at the Sarasota Manatee Airport Authority.

Guilbert notified Tipton in May that the FAA decided to change the two-decade-old flight path over Longboat Key because of a change in departure procedure. The fivedegree heading change resulted in a shift of the flight path about one mile north on the Key. Tipton and the town expressed concern to the FAA about the flight path being changed without public outreach, and the FAA responded by scheduling the Aug. 20 meeting.

According to Tipton, the meeting was positive, with the FAA admitting fault in the lack of communication.

In an email Tipton sent to commissioners about the matter, he also mentioned that the FAA has criteria for public engagement, and this

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Town of Longboat Key ATTENTION VOLUNTEERS

The Town of Longboat Key is accepting applications for appointment to the ATTENTION VOLUNTEERS following boards: The Town of Longboat Key is accepting applications for appointment to the The Town of LongboatZoning Key is Board accepting applications for appointment to the of Adjustment following following boards: boards: Consolidated Retirement System Board of Trustees

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change did not require public outreach.

“They had, at least to me, solid reasoning for the changes that they made, understanding that they absolutely could have communicated a whole lot better,” Tipton said.

The FAA representatives informed Tipton that there were safety concerns about the original route, which resulted in the change in heading and therefore shifted the flight path.

“At the end of the day, as we suspected, it came down to safety issues,” Tipton said. “We all can understand that.”

According to Tipton, Guilbert was helpful throughout the meeting and addressed the concerns raised by Longboat Key. Guilbert also proposed that the route could be shifted a little farther south.

Although Tipton said he doesn’t believe the route can be changed back to the original route, it seemed like Guilbert — on behalf of the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport — was committed to submitting the recommendation to the FAA that would move the route to the south.

There are no concrete timelines for the next steps, Tipton said, and reviews for these types of changes could be lengthy. For now, Tipton said the town would continue to work with Guilbert and the FAA to ensure that the suggested alternative is reviewed.

Town of Longboat Key Town of Longboat Key ATTENTION VOLUNTEERS

Town of Longboat Key.beLate applications be held for one year for any future All applications must submitted to thewill Office of the Town Clerk by 12:00 Town of Longboat Key board or committee vacancies that may arise. p.m. on September 2024. All applicants must voters of the All applications must 13, be submitted to the Office of be theregistered Town Clerk by 12:00 ATTENTION VOLUNTEERS Town of Longboat Key. Late applications will be held for one year for any future All members of the13,Zoning Board of Adjustment and the Consolidated p.m. on September 2024. All applicants must be registered voters of the board or committee vacancies that may arise.

Retirement BoardKey of Trustees are required to filefor a financial disclosure The Town System of Longboat is accepting applications appointment to the

Town of Longboat Key. Late applications will be held for one year for any future form withinboards: 30 of days appointment annually thereafter the duration following All members theafter Zoning Board and of Adjustment and theforConsolidated board or committee vacancies that may arise. of the appointment as required by Florida Statutes Chapter 112.

Retirement System Board of Trustees are required to file a financial disclosure Zoning Board of Adjustment

425507-1

form withinConsolidated 30 of days appointment and annually thereafter the duration Themembers Town Commission may schedule aSystem Meet and Greet applicants at a Retirement Board ofwith Trustees All theafter Zoning Board of Adjustment and thefor Consolidated of the appointment as required by Florida Statutes Chapter 112. later date. Please call the Office of the Town Clerk at 941-316-1999 to request Five Star Rated

Retirement System Board of Trustees are required to file a financial disclosure an or questions.

Applications are All application applications must bemay submitted to athe Office the available Town Clerkonline by 12:00 The Town Commission schedule Meet andofalso Greet with applicants atat: a form within 30 days after appointment and annually thereafter for the duration www.longboatkey.org.

Completed applications may be submitted to: p.m.date. on September applicants mustatbe registered voters of the later Please call 13, the 2024.

Office All of the Town Clerk 941-316-1999 to request of theapplication appointment byApplications Florida Statutes Chapter 112.

Town of Longboat Key. Late applications will be held for one year foronline any future an oras questions. arethe also available at: Town ofrequired Longboat Key – Office of Town Clerk board or committee vacancies thatapplications may arise. may be submitted to: www.longboatkey.org.

Completed

501 Bay Isles Road The Town Commission mayLongboat schedule a Meet and Greet with applicants at a 34228 of Longboat KeyKey – Office of the Town Clerk All members Town of the Zoning Board ofFLAdjustment and the Consolidated later date.

Please call the Office of the Town Clerk at 941-316-1999 to request 501 Bay Isles Road Retirement System Board of Trustees Stephanie Garcia, Administrative Assistant are required to file a financial disclosure an application or questions.

Applications are also available online at: Longboat Keyand FL annually 34228 form within 30 days after appointment thereafter for the duration Published: 08-28-2024, 09-04-2024 of the appointment as Completed required by applications Florida Statutes 112. to: www.longboatkey.org. may Chapter be submitted Stephanie Garcia, Administrative Assistant

sarasotaoms.com

Published: 08-28-2024, 09-04-2024 The Town Commission may schedule a Meet and Greet with applicants at a

Town of Longboat Key – Office of the Town Clerk

later date. Please call the Office of the Town Clerk at 941-316-1999 to request 501 Applications Bay Isles Roadare also available online at: an application or questions.

Longboatapplications Key FL 34228 www.longboatkey.org. Completed may be submitted to:

PUBLIC NOTICES

of Longboat Key – Office of the Town Clerk Stephanie Garcia,Town Administrative Assistant 501 Bay Isles Road Published: 08-28-2024, 09-04-2024 Longboat Key FL 34228

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

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

Draft sketch of the core library.

CONTACT THE LONGBOAT KEY FOUNDATION

More time needed to raise funds for library add-ons Town Manager Howard Tipton and Jim Brown with the LBK Foundation said this time of year was not optimal for raising the $3.5 million needed for an enhanced public library.

STAFF WRITER

A

lthough the $3.5 million needed for an enhanced library on Longboat Key wasn’t raised by the deadline of Aug. 31, there’s still hope the fundraising campaign can be extended.

The Longboat Key Foundation was given a deadline by Sarasota County and the town of Longboat Key to raise $3.5 million for the county’s library project to include enhancements to a core library. Those enhancements would include a larger community meeting space and a terrace.

Summer is a tough time of year for reaching the Longboat Key com-

munity, though, said Longboat Key Foundation Chairman Jim Brown.

Town Manager Howard Tipton said the same, but both are hopeful Sarasota County will extend the deadline.

“The design is kind of on hold until we complete the fundraising,” Tipton said. “I think we’re going to have to go longer than (August), which was the original plan. I think everything is just taking longer, people are away and it’s harder to reach people.

So I think that’ll get extended into the fall.”

Sarasota County is currently working on the design for a public library on Longboat Key located on the Town Center Green. The core library, about 8,780 square feet,

is estimated to cost $11.1 million.

Construction for the core library, as well as future operation costs, will be covered by the county.

After a series of public input sessions earlier this year, the county included the possibility of adding enhancements to the library after hearing from the community about its desires for outdoor space and more meeting space.

That led to the enhancement options: a terrace that will cost about $1.5 million and an enhanced meeting room costing $2 million. This would bring the library’s total square footage to 11,230 square feet.

But, to make the enhancements a reality, the county said private dona-

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tions would need to fund those parts of construction.

The Longboat Key Foundation had about 60 days, given the original deadline, to raise the $3.5 million throughout the summer.

“Raising $3.5 million in small donations is not easy, and it’s not fast,” Brown said.

Brown said so far, the LBK Foundation has accumulated a little over $100,000 in small donations for the project. But to get the fundraising campaign moving forward, Brown said large donations are key.

For large donations, naming rights are a possibility. According to guidelines set by the county’s Libraries and Historical Resources Department, a donor must fund 25% of the total estimated project cost to obtain naming rights. That would be a $3.65 million donation, with a total project cost of $14.6 million, including enhancements.

There are people out there willing to make those donations, Brown said. Before the summer, Brown had conversations with donors interested in making a large gift, but now he said it’s been difficult to get in touch with them.

According to Brown, it has to do

HOPING FOR AN EXTENSION

Brown said he thinks the best time to ramp up the fundraising campaign would be around November. When people return to the island and get talking about the project again, he thinks more momentum should pick up.

“We’ve got to get this cranked up, but I think it requires people being here,” Brown said.

Brown thinks that, based on previous discussions, Sarasota County would be willing to extend the fundraising timeframe.

Tipton agreed and said he thinks that fundraising could extend through the fall season with the county still able to work on the design following that.

The town of Longboat Key also has a joint meeting with the Sarasota County Commission on Oct. 23, which will be an opportunity to talk about the library project further, according to Tipton.

“I know that there is a willingness to work with us as we try to get the right design,” Tipton said. “I don’t think anybody, Sarasota County included, wants to build a library that the community doesn’t appreciate as much.”

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largely with the time of year and the fact that most residents are away or traveling for the summer.

Tipton also mentioned having “positive” conversations with donors, but that the summer was not an ideal time of year for a large fundraising campaign.

“I think we’ll have more success as we get into the fall,” Tipton said.

To get in touch about fundraising or about the project, Jim Brown and the Longboat Key Foundation can be contacted at JimBrown@LBKFoundation. org or through the website at LBKFoundation.org.

The enhancements requested for the library include a terrace and extra meeting space.

CARTER WEINHOFER

Courtesy renderings

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

Photos by Carter Weinhofer

Aaron Maness joined the Longboat Key Fire Rescue Department in August.

Longboat’s newest firefighter

Sgt. Adam Montfort frequently patrols the waters around Longboat Key for the police department.

Police secure new boat lift The department now has three boat lifts on the island, which will help the officers respond more quickly to calls on the water, according to Chief of Police George Turner.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

T

he Longboat Key Police Department is improving its ability to respond on the water with a new boat lift on the south end of the island.

The new solar-powered lift, located along the Dry Dock boat slips, brings the department’s total boat lifts to three — the town built one on town property on the north end and the department has a space at the Longboat Key Club Moorings.

Having this new boat lift for the department’s marine patrol unit will help improve efficiency everywhere, according to Chief of Police George Turner.

“It adds more time on the water, and it’s much easier in off hours when we need to respond to something,” Turner said.

The department has had space at the Longboat Key Club Moorings since about 2001, according to Turner, but having a boat lift on both ends of the island was a long-term goal.

About six months ago, the town installed a lift for the police department on the north end of the island at Broadway Street. This was town property, which made it easier to find

Aaron Maness spent about four years as a firefighter in Tennessee before relocating to the area with his family.

a spot, according to Turner.

But Turner said it took about a year of work to find space for a boat lift on the south end.

The town entered into a lease for $1 a year with Dry Dock for the space.

The town funded the lift itself.

For both the north-end lift on Broadway Street and the one at the Dry Dock, the town spent $25,000.

Currently, the department has three different-sized vessels for marine patrols: 34 feet, 23 feet and 17 feet.

Turner said some part-time officers operate the boats and eight or nine patrol officers are now certified for marine patrols. The department is still advertising for more parttime boat operators, too.

Marine patrol vessels go out every weekend and holiday, and wherever else they’re needed to respond to calls.

Having these new lifts allows the department to already have boats in the water rather than having to haul them to a boat launch and deploy them, and then do the reverse after responding to a call.

Turner said it used to take about an hour to get a vessel in or out of the water. Now, officers can just get to the boat and lower into the water.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

T

his summer, the Longboat Key Fire Rescue Department welcomed a new firefighter paramedic to its crew.

Aaron Maness moved from Tennessee earlier this summer to start the new job on Longboat Key. Prior to that, Maness was working at the Kingsport Fire Department in Tennessee.

A little while ago, Maness and his family decided they wanted to move to the Gulf Coast, and he started looking for fire jobs. During his search, Maness said Longboat Key appealed to him because of the smaller size and “family feel” of the department.

The Longboat Key Fire Rescue Department is also unique in that the crew are firefighter paramedics, dealing with calls for fires and medical emergencies. That’s one of the main things that drew Maness to the department.

Maness, 32, started his fire career in 2020, a little later than most peo-

ple get into the career. But he has been interested in the medical side of things since high school, he said.

With Longboat Key, Maness said he gets the “best of both worlds” — the adrenaline from fire calls and being able to run medical calls that he’s remained passionate about.

After starting the hiring process in April, Maness had a virtual interview with the department this summer and was offered the job shortly after the interview in July, he said.

Maness’s first day with Longboat Key was Aug. 6, and he immediately started training. Even though he’s not new to the fire service, he had to spend two weeks’ worth of shifts to learn Longboat Key Fire Rescue’s system.

After that, Maness, like all new recruits, will be with a field training officer for about three months to learn the paramedic side of things before being tested by the department’s medical director. Maness will be on a probation period for a year — standard for all new crewmembers — and continue training for the fire side of fire rescue.

Maness said he and his family are excited about living in Florida.

Although much of his free time has been spent unpacking since the move, he said the family has also enjoyed exploring some of the beaches closer to where they live in North Port.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

OPINION / OUR VIEW

LONGBOAT

Speak now, or forever …

HOW OUR LOCAL GOVERNMENTS COMPARE

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

SPENDING PRESSURE

Friedrich Hayek

“Road to Serfdom,” 1944 President and Publisher / Emily Walsh, EWalsh@YourObserver.com Executive Editor and COO / Kat Wingert, KWingert@YourObserver.com

MATT WALSH

Time is running out for taxpayers to let elected officials know what they think of the way they’re spending your money.

The Spending Pressure score measures the economic burden imposed on taxpayers because of government expenditures. The source of the scores and the debt and spending indexes below is Statisnostics.com. In addition to tracking

the taxation and finances of every jurisdiction in the United States, Statisnostics compiles similar data on individual school performance; income; real estate values and sale prices; crime statistics; demographics and more.

DEBT & SPENDING INDEX

T

his is it, your last opportunity. September is adoption month — when Florida’s municipalities and county governments adopt their budgets and tax rates for the next fiscal year.

By law, each government jurisdiction must hold two final public hearings. This is when you can try to make your final case either for or against what your elected officials are going to collect from you and/ or how they’re going to spend your money over the next 12 months.

Rare is the day when these hearings attract much of an audience.

For one, and sadly, most taxpayers pay little to no attention to this process. What’s more, after months of talking about their budgets, elected officials would look at you with glazed eyes and pretty much tune out anything you had to say.

The fact is, taxpayers pretty much operate on blind faith and trust that the people they have elected locally are fiscally responsible — unlike the corrupt spendthrifts in Congress.

To be sure, the Observer can be a better watchdog. (A commitment: We will.) But with the amazing power of creative software and availability of data and information in the cyber world, there is a new tool to help taxpayers see with a couple clicks how their tax jurisdictions are taxing and spending and how they compare. The accompanying informational graphics are a sample.

The producer of this data is Statisnostics, an upstart company with roots on Longboat Key. One of its creators is lawyer Ed Tiesenga, a Chicago and longtime, part-time Longboat Key resident. He and his team have created software that can scrub through census data and information from every municipality’s online data to create remarkably useful information — especially for people contemplating a move.

You can compare cities’ taxes and spending; real estate values and sales; crime data; individual schools’ performance; demographics; weather risks; incomes and more.

As our graphics demonstrate, you can see that Longboat Key is in the red zone of spending, while Marco Island has a dangerous debt issue.

If you were thinking of relocating to either place, the Statisnostics data might trigger a need for more research. Statisnostics.com, in fact, is faster and easier than, say, trying to wade through your city’s annual budget book.

We can attest to that.

You can go blind and insane trudging through each jurisdiction’s budget. Longboat Key, for instance, recently hailed its new online budget book. We’ll certainly give the town’s Finance Department and Finance Director Susan Smith credit. It’s the best presentation, best organized, most detailed and most explanatory budget book in the region. Smith and her team created an easier-to-follow and navigate book than all of her peers’ books.

It is so detailed, it even lists the projected costs of a beach rake; updating a bathroom at Durante Park; a mowing trailer for the parks department; and virtually anything a department intends to purchase.

While all that detail is the epitome of transparency, the budget book for Longboat Key is 781 pages!

Sarasota County’s book is a tortu-

SPENDING, DEBT BURDEN & REVENUE PER PERSON Ranked by highest to lowest spending per person.

Spending $25,812 $25,499 $23,935 $23,313 $23,303 $21,313

Longboat Key Naples Marco Island Venice City of Sarasota Bradenton

Debt Burden $72,879 $71,066 $78,808 $69,551 $71,399 $67,563

Revenue $22,782 $24,952 $22,106 $21,181 $21,553 $19,761

AVERAGE PROPERTY TAX Naples

Average Property Tax

$9,929 Five year change: +38.50%

Sarasota

Average Property Tax

$4,703 Five year change: +31.89%

FINAL BUDGET HEARINGS Longboat Key.........Sept. 9, 23 Budget book: Town-longboatkey-fl-budget-book.cleargov. com/18088/introduction/ transmittal-letter City of Sarasota.... Sept. 3, 16 Budget book: sarasotafl.gov/ government/financial-administration Sarasota County. Sept. 12, 26 Budget book: scgov.net/government/office-of-financialmanagement/current-budgetdocuments Manatee County... Sept. 12, 17 Budget book: mymanatee.org/ departments/financial_management/budget_materials

ous 612 pages. And talk about nonuser-friendly: the Manatee County website is the winner, or more like it — the loser.

Surely, there is artificial intelligence that could standardize the most salient pieces of information that taxpayers want to know. Like this one: In the thousand-plus budget pages, it’s rare — or certainly not emphasized as it should be — to find a table or chart that shows the year-over-year percentage change in revenues, expenses or staff numbers. Such percentages are crucial for taxpayers. They are the quickest way to spot aberrations.

We’re convinced the finance directors are instructed to leave out percentage changes for that reason

Source: Statisnostics.com

Longboat Key

Marco Island

Average Property Tax

Average Property Tax

$8,997

$6,408

Five year change: +21.7%

Five year change: +41.11%

Venice

Bradenton

Average Property Tax

Average Property Tax

Five year change: +89.73%

Five year change: +35.26%

$4,510

$2,084

BUDGET SNAPSHOTS

Staff Writers / Petra Rivera, PRivera@ YourObserver.com; Carter Weinhofer, CWeinhofer@YourObserver.com Digital & Engagement Editor / Kaelyn Adix, KAdix@YourObserver.com Digital Content Producer / Jim DeLa, JDeLa@YourObserver.com Copy Editor / Gina Reynolds Haskins, GRHaskins@YourObserver.com Senior Editorial Designer / Melissa Leduc, MLeduc@YourObserver.com Editorial Designer / Jenn Edwards, JEdwards@YourObserver.com A+E Editor / Monica Roman Gagnier, MGagnier@YourObserver.com Chief Revenue Officer / Jill Raleigh, JRaleigh@YourObserver.com Regional Sales Director / Penny Nowicki, PNowicki@YourObserver.com Regional Digital Director / Kathleen O’Hara, KOHara@YourObserver.com Senior Advertising Executive / Laura Ritter, LRitter@YourObserver.com Advertising Executives / Richeal McGuinness, RMcGuinness@ YourObserver.com; Lexi Huelsman, Lexi@ YourObserver.com; Jennifer Kane, JKane@ YourObserver.com; Honesty Mantkowski, HMantkowski@YourObserver.com; Toni Perren, TPerren@YourObserver.com; Brenda White, BWhite@YourObserver.com Classified Advertising Sales Executive / Anna Reich, AReich@YourObserver.com Sales Operations Manager / Susan Leedom, SLeedom@YourObserver.com Sales Coordinator/Account Manager Lori Downey, LDowney@YourObserver.com Advertising/Marketing Coordinator / Caitlin Ellis, CEllis@YourObserver.com Digital Fulfillment Specialist / Emma B. Jolly, EJolly@YourObserver.com Tributes Coordinator / Kristen Boothroyd, Tributes@YourObserver.com Director of Marketing / Robin Lankton, RLankton@YourObserver.com Marketing Specialist / Melanie Melone, MMelone@YourObserver.com Director of Creative Services / Caleb Stanton, CStanton@YourObserver.com Creative Services Administrator / Marjorie Holloway, MHolloway@ YourObserver.com Advertising Graphic Designers / Luis Trujillo, Taylor Poe, Louise Martin, Shawna Polana Digital Developer / Jason Camillo, JCamillo@YourObserver.com Information Technology Manager / Homer Gallego, HGallego@YourObserver. com Chief Financial Officer / Laura Strickland, LStrickland@YourObserver.com Controller / Rafael Labrin, RLabrin@ YourObserver.com Office and Accounting Coordinator / Donna Condon, DCondon@ YourObserver.com

OPERATING MILLAGE RATES Longboat Key City of Sarasota Sarasota County Sarasota County Schools Manatee County Manatee County Schools

2024 1.96 3.00 3.35 6.18 6.2326 6.421

2025 1.96 3.00 3.30 6.131 6.2326 6.299

Change 0 0 -1.5% -0.8% 0 -1.9%

GENERAL FUND EXPENSES ($ in millions) Longboat Key City of Sarasota Sarasota County Manatee County

2024

2025

Change

$25.98 $97.45 $430.5 $537.0

$24.62 $106.9 $464.9 $616.13

-4.16% +9.69% +7.99% +14.7%

CAPITAL SPENDING

NEW FTE STAFF

($ in millions).................2024-25 Longboat Key............ $33 million Sarasota city.......................... $31 Sarasota County................. $336 Sarasota Schools.................$103 Manatee County................. $209 Manatee Schools................. $513 Total................................... $1,225

— to make it difficult for taxpayers to detect unusual spending or big jumps in tax revenue.

We’ve tried on this page to cull a sampling of that useful information. Our apologies if there are so many numbers that your eyes and mind glaze over.

But take a little solace. Here is what we’ve gleaned from the proposed budgets: Florida’s local governments and school districts are benefiting now

Longboat Key........................ +1.5 Sarasota city.......................... +16 Sarasota County................... +60 Manatee County.................... +21

Observer Media Group Inc. is locally owned.

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

Source: Jurisdiction budget books

with gobs of new cash, thanks to rising real estate values and all of the housing construction accommodating Florida’s population growth.

And, of course, these governments will spend that new money —much of it justified to update old and add new infrastructure.

That’s what governments and elected officials do. But if you don’t approve, you have two more opportunities to let them know.

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

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

FRIDAY, AUG. 23

How LBK voted in Manatee County races Editors note: Last week, in our story on how Longboat Key voted in the primary election, we used the incorrect precinct in Manatee County to report primary results. To correct the error, we are rerunning the portion of the story affected by the error.

MANATEE COUNTY

Registered Voters: 2,175 Turnout: 25.2%

Manatee County, Longboat Key – Precinct 309 Manatee County District 3

Commissioner TalEarly Siddique Voting Longboat Key Voters: 60.84%

32 (5.8%) 188 (34.3%)

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

Election Day

Manatee County Voters: 61.07%

328 (59.9%)

R

esults MANATEE from the Aug. 20 priCOUNTY mary election showed that Manatee County, Key – although Longboat Key Longboat resiPrecinct 309 dents fell in line with the counties at large on many of the races, Longboat Key voters favored Early Voting 32 strongly. many of the winners more Because Longboat(5.8%) Key is split in Election Day half between Manatee and Sarasota counties, it has188 two voting preVote by Mail 328 cincts: one for each.

(34.3%) Overall, voter turnout was (59.9%) 25.2% for Longboat’s Manatee County residents and 34.2% for Sarasota boat’s votes and Culbreath received County residents. Vote-by-mail 39.16% of the votes. That’s equivawas the preferred method for both lent to 174 votes for Siddique and counties, with 328 out of 548 votes 112 votes for Culbreath. being by mail in Manatee County In the district overall, the race and 1,116 out of 1,493 by mail in was similar, with Siddique beatSarasota County. ing Culbreath by a vote of 6,070 One race that was especially rel- to 3,870, or 61.07% to 38.93%. evant for the Key’s Manatee Coun- Siddique will now face off against ty voters was the Republican race Democratic candidate Diana Shoefor Manatee County Commission maker in the Nov. 5 general elecDistrict 3. tion.

District 3 represents parts of Van Ostenbridge campaigned Bradenton, Cortez, Anna Maria against incumbent George Kruse Island and north Longboat Key. for the District 7 at-large seat on The seat is currently occupied by the Manatee County Commission Kevin Van Ostenbridge, who ran for On Longboat Key, north-end an at-large commission seat in this residents favored Kruse. Kruse year’s primary election. gained 59.86% of the votes from With Van Ostenbridge out of Longboat’s precinct and Van the District 3 race, Tal Siddique Ostenbridge had 40.14% (170 votes opposed April Culbreath for the to 114 votes).

Republican nomination. Like the The race was similar at the counrest of the district, Longboat Key ty level, with Kruse winning with voters fell more in favor of Sid- 58.43% of the votes. Van Ostendique. bridge garnered 41.57% of the According to the Manatee Coun- votes. ty Supervisor of Elections office, Siddique won 60.84% of Long-

Vote by Mail

April Culbreath Longboat Key Voters: 39.16% Manatee County Voters: 38.93% Manatee County Commissioner-at-large George Kruse Longboat Key Voters: 59.86% Manatee County Voters: 58.43% Kevin Van Ostenbridge Longboat Key Voters: 40.14% Manatee County Voters: 41.57% Representative in Congress District 16 Vern Buchanan: 68.06% (196 votes) Eddie Speir: 31.94% (92 votes) United States Senator Rick Scott: 84.67% (243 votes)

Keith Gross: 8.01% (23 votes)

John S. Columbus: 7.32% (21 votes) Supervisor of Elections Scott Farrington: 62.28% (175 votes) James Satcher: 37.72% (106 votes)

ANOTHER ELECTRICAL PROBLEM 11 p.m., 1600 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Assist other Agency: An officer on patrol heard a transformer explosion nearby and went to the scene to see a small brush fire along the sidewalk and downed power lines that were sparking. While the officer was waiting for the Longboat Key Fire Rescue Department’s arrival, more fuses from the nearby pole had blown and started more small brush fires. The fire rescue department arrived at the scene and that section of GMD was shut down for a short time until Florida Power & Light arrived.

SUNDAY, AUG. 25

LENDING A HAND 12:55 p.m., 500 block of Bay Isles Road Disabled Vehicle: After wrapping up a traffic stop, an officer was approached by a man who asked for assistance with a flat tire. The officer told the man that he could not help change the tire due to the department’s policy, but the officer helped in any way he could. The man called AAA for roadside assistance, which would not get there until three hours later. With the long wait time, the officer gave the man a courtesy ride to a nearby store to wait for AAA inside.

TUESDAY, AUG. 27

BOISTEROUS BOAT MAINTENANCE 10:28 a.m., 600 block of Buttonwood Drive Noise Disturbance: Dispatch sent an officer to investigate two separate noise complaint calls from residents who claimed there was loud music from a neighbor’s house for the last 90 minutes. Upon arrival at the residence in question, the officer did not hear loud music but spoke with the homeowner. She said someone was having work done on her boat’s sound system and loud music was on for a few seconds to make sure everything was working properly.

While speaking with the homeowner, she mentioned that one of the complainants had trespassed on her property to talk to the

SATURDAY, AUG. 24

SUSPICIOUS WASHING MACHINE 3:10 p.m., 1900 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Suspicious Incident: A condominium employee called 911 after she heard a washer turn on when she entered a unit that no one was supposed to be in. Longboat Key officers responded to the suspicious incident and entered the unit. All rooms were cleared, and it appeared that the sound the employee heard was an air conditioning unit. No signs of forced entry were observed, and an officer contacted the unit’s owner to let him know of the situation.

COPS CORNER

CORRECTION

9

worker after the music was played.

However, she told the officer that she did not want to file a trespass warning because she was rushing to get to an appointment.

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 28

BOGUS BONE 9:26 a.m., 4700 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Suspicious Incident: Officers were dispatched to a report of a bone found on the beach. The caller said he was walking on the beach when he found what appeared to be a joint bone. An officer took a picture of the bone and sent it to a medical examiner, who confirmed it was not from a human. The bone was disposed of in a nearby trash can.

FOR CITY COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 2 VOTELIZALPERT.COM

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Sarasota is the cultural center of Florida. Every year families move here to call our community home.

They are helping us create a more dynamic city. As Sarasota grows, Liz Alpert is working to make sure the growth is managed responsibly. She’s listening to residents and balancing the needs of new families with our existing residents.

Liz Alpert is improving our quality of life by: Investing in and modernizing our local infrastructure, including roads and sewers Improving our water quality through creation of the watershed at Bobby Jones Golf Course Preserving our history and charm by investing in and nurturing our local arts institutions Supporting walkability, bike trails, e-scooters and bikes, and the trolley to keep traffic and congestion at a minimum Supporting and expanding the Legacy Business Program to celebrate and support local businesses

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

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rchitects from Renzo Piano Building Workshop will return to Sarasota from their home base in Genoa, Italy, on Sept. 18 to share their preliminary vision for the Sarasota Performing Arts Center.

Members of the RPBW team will pay their first visit here since holding two “Meet the Architects” sessions on July 16. They’ll return with their initial design concept, which will be unveiled at two community workshop sessions.

During the workshops, attendees will get a first look at the latest ideas for the spaces planned for the center, which will be built at the northeast corner of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall parking lot and serve as the centerpiece of The Bay park.

After a presentation, the design team, along with the project’s architect of record, Sarasota-based Sweet Sparkman, and designers from Arup Group, will break into smaller groups where attendees may engage directly with the design team, ask questions and provide input.

Arup Group is a leading multinational theater and venue design and advisory practice based in London.

“These gatherings will not only inform the community but also spark meaningful conversations and

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inspire everyone to dream with us about the future of the arts in Sarasota,” said Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation CEO Tania Castroverde in a statement.

The firm is on the fast track to provide a final design concept and estimated project cost by Nov. 30, when the city and the foundation are set to enter into an agreement for the public-private venture. The project is to be funded in equal parts between public dollars, almost all from the tax increment financing district surrounding the park and philanthropy.

In May, the city and Renzo Piano entered into a contract worth up to $36.9 million for the design work.

The final cost of the project has been estimated between $275 million and $300 million.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

SOS releases rescued great blue heron The bird spent a little more than a month at Save Our Seabirds, and its rescuer, Terri Driver, was able to be a part of the full-circle moment.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

donate &&shop onate donate &donate shop shop & shop B

eing able to release the great blue heron she rescued earlier this summer was like sending your kid to catch the bus on the first day of school, Terri Driver said — a time of excitement, but also caution.

After a month-and-a-half of care at Save Our Seabirds, the heron that Driver rescued was released on the beach at the Broadway Street Public Access.

Driver had been on patrol for Longboat Key Turtle Watch on July 7 when she heard a bird cry out for help. On the shoreline, she saw a great blue heron tangled in fishing line and with a hook in its leg.

The heron was wrapped in about 10-15 feet of line and in terrible condition. It was exhausted, and, with the tide rolling in, the bird seemed to be in danger of drowning.

Driver described the bird as waterlogged, looking like it was drenched and unable to fly. n n n n An experienced turtle patroller, Driver had scissors on hand and freed n n n n the heron from some of the line and stayed with it until her friends and n volunteers with SOS Heather and n n n Ray Sellers arrived.

The Sellers transported the heron to SOS, where it received about a month-and-a-half of care. In that time, the bird was able to recover and regain some strength.

Once the heron healed, it had to wait its turn in the flight testing cage, which took a couple of weeks before n n n n it was cleared for release.

On the morning of Aug. 26, Driver and her husband, Jeff, joined SellOur Our vision is everyone deserves a decent place to live. vision is everyone deserves vision aisdecent everyone Our place vision deserves to live. is everyone a decent deserves place to alive. decent place ersto andlive. other Longboat Key Turtle

Photos by Carter Weinhofer

The great blue heron flies out of the crate onto the beach.

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Regaining your quality of life begins when you CHOOSE exceptional results in rehabilitation.

For those recovering from a stroke, injury or illness, regaining your best quality of life begins with your ability to choose where your rehabilitation happens. For exceptional results, choose Encompass Health, the rehabilitation hospital referred by doctors and trusted by patients and their loved ones.

Heather Sellers responded to the rescue call from Terri Driver in July.

Watch volunteers to watch the heron take flight back to its home.

For Driver, she said it was a buildup of excitement getting to that moment. First, the excitement came when she first heard the heron was going to be fine and was releasable.

“I thought for sure it was going to be dead within hours, and Save Our Seabirds was reassuring me that it’s going to be fine,” Driver said.

She continued to receive updates on her heron from SOS until the day of its release.

“To actually see it fly off and look healthy, it’s awesome,” Driver said.

“It’s also a little scary because it’s like letting your kid go to first grade on the bus by themselves.”

At the release, the bird seemed energetic and Driver said she hoped that the heron would stay out of trouble near fishermen in the future.

Please join us at an upcoming

Community Education Program.

Learn from healthcare experts on a variety of topics, hosted by Encompass Health.

Community Cardiac Support Group Thursday, September 5th | Noon – 1:00 p.m.

Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce 2702 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte Lunch provided. RSVP to 941.376.2747

Community Stroke & Cardiac Support Group Thursday, September 19th | Noon – 1:00 p.m.

Fire Station 1, Meeting Room 112 Harbor Drive S., Venice Lunch provided. RSVP to 941.284.0074

Lunch & Learn

Wednesday, Sept. 11 • 11:30-1:00 pm 7 Ways to Increase Well-Being & Longevity Presented by Christopher Cortman, PsyD San Pedro Catholic Church 14380 Tamiami Trail, North Port Lunch provided. For questions or to RSVP, contact Trish at seniorlife@sanpedrocc.org or 941.426.2500, Ext. 106.

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Photos by Petra Rivera

Greg Fiore and Gordon Govalet enjoy refreshments at the August event.

Jamie Engel, Carolyn Nielsen, Connie DiMaggio, Valerie Evanko and Anne Summers at the August Gather and Give.

Chapel members gather and give

O

Connie DiMaggio shows off shoe donations the Chapel is giving to Turning Points.

n her first week on the job, Carolyn Nielsen, the new special events coordinator at Turning Points in Bradenton, is already making big moves.

Longboat Island Chapel was her first visit to Turning Points’ community partners, and the church’s charitable outreach committee presented her with $5,000 to use for needs of her choosing at the nonprofit.

Every month, chapel members gather at its “Gather and Give” happy hour to collect donations for a local nonprofit over a potluck. These charity hours are the church’s creative way to educate on how to help those in need around the community. Since children started school in August, the committee collected children’s socks and shoes to donate to Turning Points at this month’s Gather and Give on Aug. 27.

Nielsen said that the nonprofit’s mission is to reduce homelessness in the area and to help families gain financial stability and independence. Turning Points provides services such as hot showers, laundry services, clothing, food, employment services, rental and utility assistance, veterans’ services and free medical and dental care for the uninsured.

Before joining the Turning Points team, Nielsen worked for the Salvation Army in Bradenton while volunteering for Turning Points when she had time. After being on the emergency housing side of the homeless population for years, Nielsen decided it was time for a change and went to work to keep people off the streets.

Jamie Engel, Connie DiMaggio and Anne Summers organized this August charity hour. DiMaggio said she could see Nielsen’s great passion while working with her on this month’s Gather and Give.

Nielsen is planning on taking a group of chapel members on a tour of the nonprofit to show them firsthand how they impact the many lives at Turning Points.

Sandy Endres, Nancy Chanos and June Hessel at the August Gather and Give at the Longboat Island Chapel.

David Stone and Carolyn Nielsen at the August Gather and Give at the Longboat Island Chapel.

— PETRA RIVERA

WORSHIP

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

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

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Rev. Robert Dziedziak, Pastor

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

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

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

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

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

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SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT Four Sarasota cultural groups strutted their stuff out of town in the off season.

Taking the show on the road

Courtesy images

Above: Before traveling to the International Black Theatre Festival in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe presented a soldout preview of “Soul Crooners: Solid Gold Edition” in Sarasota.

Left: Sarasota Ballet Director Iain Webb and Assistant Director Margaret Barbieri, his wife, pose on stage during the ballet’s June residency at the Royal Opera in London.

MONICA ROMAN GAGNIER ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

W

hen the temperatures rise in Sarasota, the snowbirds head home for the summer.

But this year, four local arts organizations also took wing and performed for out-oftown audiences in France, England, North Carolina and Massachusetts.

The summer road trips were a chance for Sarasota performers to strut their stuff and show the world just how lucky we are to have firstclass cultural institutions in our cozy beach town.

The four groups who took their shows on the road were: n Sarasota Ballet, which performed in “Ashton Celebrated” at the Royal Opera House in London from June 4-9 n Choral Artists of Sarasota, which sang and marched in ceremonies honoring the 80th anniversary of D-Day in France on June 6-7 n Circus Arts Conservatory, which presented “Sommersaults in the Berkshires” from July 19-28 at the Duffin Theatre in Lenox, Massachusetts n Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, which appeared at the International Black Theatre Festival for the sixth time, from July 29-Aug. 3 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

As anyone who has ever taken a big trip knows, lots of things can go wrong. Even with all the hightech tools at our disposal, plans can still go awry. The security detail of a president can unexpectedly close down a travel route, a hurricane can result in delayed airline flights and costumes can be damaged.

When you’re a touring arts organization, you have to make compromises about lighting, sets and personnel to keep costs manageable.

You learn to travel light, bring your best people and rely on the expertise of locals who are familiar with the venue and audience preferences where you’ll be in the spotlight.

But Sarasota’s intrepid arts ambassadors were troupers (that’s what they call them in the theater) this summer. Some were even troopers, like the members of Choral Artists who marched alongside veterans and military personnel in honor of the U.S. invasion of Normandy to liberate France from the Nazis.

In addition to performers and staffers, Sarasota arts organizations brought along well-wishers and donors to accompany them on their summer adventures.

Those of us who had to hold down the fort at home can still take pride in their high-profile appearances. Read on to learn more about each cultural organization’s summer sojourn.

CHORAL ARTISTS TAKES PART IN A MASS MUSICAL OPERATION

SARASOTA BALLET IS THE TOAST OF LONDON

The Bible tells the story of the prodigal son who is welcomed when he comes home to ask for forgiveness after squandering his inheritance.

Sarasota Ballet Director Iain Webb has multiplied his investment in the works of Sir Frederick Ashton, so his triumphant return to his native England doesn’t exactly fit the biblical story line.

What’s more, he returned to Covent Garden with his wife, Sarasota Ballet Assistant Director Margaret Barbieri, who also danced Ashton’s ballets during the couple’s days with the Royal Ballet.

What if Adam and Eve left the Garden of Eden and returned to paradise with the fruits of their labors? That sounds more like it. And since we’re talking about Old Testament tales here, of course, judgment had to be handed down — and it was good.

With rare exceptions, the critics loved the Sarasota Ballet’s performances of such Ashton ballets as the ensemble-driven “Dante Sonata,” the showcase of choreographic satires “Facade,” the abstract “Sinfonietta,” the waltzing “Valses nobles et sentimentales” and Ashton’s selfparody “Varii Capricci.”

What’s more, these same critics sent Webb home with the British National Dance Award for Outstanding Achievement. Unfortunately, he didn’t have much time to celebrate because the June 3 ceremony was the night before Sarasota Ballet’s debut at the Royal Opera House.

In an interview following his return to Sarasota after the London residency, Webb confessed his fears that the critics who had just feted him would turn around and torch his efforts to preserve the legacy of Ashton.

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

“There’s long been a perception

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

It’s not just the leadership of Webb and Barbieri that have put Sarasota Ballet on the map. With the spread of YouTube and other streaming services, the ballet’s performances are being watched by people around the world, noted principal dancer Jennifer Hackbarth in a post-mortem of the London trip.

If the London reviews and robust ticket sales are any indication, the Sarasota Ballet is acquiring devoted fans on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean.

With the London trip behind him, Webb has his eye on returning to the prestigious Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival in the Massachusetts Berkshires. The company made its Jacob’s Pillow debut to great acclaim in August 2015, with a program featuring the world premiere of Graziano’s “In a State of Weightlessness.”

Sarasota Ballet was scheduled to appear again in August 2020, but the pandemic terminated all those plans. But Webb is determined to return to the Berkshires in the years ahead.

People who travel outside the United States for the first time are often surprised to discover that Americans don’t always receive a warm welcome, for a variety of reasons.

That’s not the case in Sainte-MèreÉglise, the first town in France that U.S. troops liberated in 1944.

Members of Choral Artists of Sarasota and their entourage got to experience the love and gratitude the village has for Americans firsthand when they took part in ceremonies commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day. “It was so incredible as people of all walks of life and ages ranging from the youngest child to the oldest person were cheering us as we marched,” says Joseph Holt, artistic director of Choral Artists. “They were so thankful for the Americans that freed them from the ravages of WWII and thankful for us as current Americans who made the trip back to this town to commemorate and celebrate the event.”

During their trip to Normandy, Choral Artists participated in a mass gathering of music ensembles at Brittany American Cemetery that also included several groups from Australia and New Zealand. As they performed a piece entitled “Blades of Grass and Pure White Stones,” members of the group could see hundreds of gravestones stretching into the distance as well as members of the audience.

“Many were in tears as we performed as this piece is a poignant recognition of those that lost their lives in the fight against tyranny and domination by an evil empire,” Holt said.

Sarasota’s Choral Artists march in a parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day in France.

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One of the most moving parts of the trip for Holt was watching Ben Colvard visit the grave of his father, also named Ben Colvard, at the Normandy American Cemetery. Colvard had joined Choral Artists’ trip to France precisely for this opportunity.

Colvard was born in October 1944, several months after his father died in July 1944 participating in the massive invasion of Normandy by Allied troops.

Because the ceremony at the Normandy American Cemetery was curtailed by a visit by President Joe Biden, it wasn’t clear whether Colvard would have the opportunity to find his father’s grave, Holt said.

“A last-minute change in our schedule allowed us to visit the enormous cemetery — there are almost 10,000 buried there — and Ben was able to locate his father with help from cemetery staff,” he said.

“An aide took Colvard and his wife to the grave and gave him sand to rub over the gravestone so the name would stand out. When Colvard shared the story with Chorale Artists members later and showed them pictures and a video of the event, we all had tears in our eyes. This was likely the most memorable event of the entire trip,” Holt recalls.

The changing schedules of President Biden and French Presidential Emmanuel Macron created some challenges for Choral Artists’ travel plans. At the last minute, they had to cancel their participation in a largescale ceremony at the Normandy American Cemetery. Instead, the tour company working with Choral Artists took them to Bayeux, where they were able to tour a museum dedicated to the invasion.

While they were at the museum, French soldiers and police stationed in the entrance openly speculated about the possibility of President Macron’s imminent arrival. “As it turned out, President Macron altered his plans and we were able to continue without interruption,” Holt said.

Some other groups scheduled to take part in the ceremonies had already arrived at Normandy and were stranded on their buses for hours due to President Biden’s visit.

“We were the lucky ones,” said Holt.

Performers in the Circus Arts Conservatory show “Sommersaults in the Berkshires” take their bows at the end of the performance.

He is no stranger to military operations and political maneuverings, having spent more than two decades as principal pianist with the United States Army Chorus in Washington, D.C., performing for presidents and generals from around the world.

HEAD OVER HEELS FOR ‘SOMMERSAULTS IN THE BERKSHIRES’

Yes, its performers use high wires and trapezes, but are the circus arts as “elevated” as the orchestra or the ballet? In the town that John Ringling made the winter home of his circus, few would disagree that the circus arts can hold their own against classical performing arts.

But what about in the Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts, home to Tanglewood, the summer residence of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, as well as Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival and the live theater company Shakespeare & Company?

How would the circus arts be viewed there? This summer, Pedro Reis and Dolly Jacobs, founders of Sarasota’s Circus Arts Conservatory, found out for themselves. Thanks to the efforts of Robin Eldridge, a former producer at Shakespeare & Company, the CAC held its first-ever summer residency in the Berkshires.

From July 19-28, the group of international artists performed 18 shows at the Duffin Theater in Lenox, Massachusetts. “The Berkshires is a family destination,” said

Reis in a telephone interview following his return to Sarasota. “We took an ensemble from last season, with the exception of one act, and the model of a one-hour show to Massachusetts.”

Reis says the CAC’s residency, called “Sommersaults in the Berkshires,” didn’t fill all 500 seats in the Duffin for its shows, but he still considers it a great success. “The audience went crazy for the show,” he says. “They loved it. At least 90% of the audience was three generations.”

He said the performers — master of ceremonies Heidi Herriott, clowns Dick Monday and Slappy, crystal balance act Serge Sergeev and Aurika Annaeva, speed juggler Tersit Asefa Dersu and Garrett Allen on aerial rope —stayed at the Whistler’s Inn bed and breakfast in Lenox. “It was great sharing breakfast and hanging out in the living room,” Reis says.

One of the high points of the trip for Reis was meeting Chris Noth (best known as Mr. Big in “Sex and the City”) and having the actor attend the circus with his family.

On July 11, Eldridge organized a panel discussion on how the performing arts shape our culture. Moderated by Williams College President Maud S. Mandel, the panel featured Reis and leaders from Shakespeare & Company, Tanglewood Music Center, Jacob’s Pillow, the art museum MASS MoCA and Berkshire Theatre Group.

“Some of the institutions represented on the panel haven’t recovered as well as others from the disruptions of Covid,” Reis says. “We’ve been fortunate in Sarasota.”

WBTT DOES A CHA-CHA WITH HURRICANE DEBBY

In his 11 years attending the International Black Theatre festival in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe founder and Artistic Director Nate Jacobs has gone from being a rising star to an elder statesmen.

Asked how WBTT’s peer organizations at the festival are faring postpandemic, Jacobs replied, “We’re one of a kind. We don’t have any peers. People at the festival call us the miracle theater.”

What’s the reason for the nickname? “Because I am based in a predominately white community that supports a Black theater. Folks ask me, ‘How are you doing that?’”

There are lots of reasons: Jacobs’ dedication and eye for talent, WBTT’s executive director, Julie Leach, and the generosity of Sarasota’s arts patrons.

With their help, WBTT was able to attend what Jacobs calls “the powwow of the Black theater world” for the sixth time (it’s a biannual festival) and present three shows out of the 50 that were showcased in Winston-Salem.

15

WBTT brought two of its own shows to the festival — the original musical “Soul Crooners: Solid Gold Edition” and the one-act play “Float Like a Butterfly” based on the life of “The Greatest of All Time” heavyweight boxer Muhammad Ali. It also collaborated on a third, the one-act play, “From Birmingham to Broadway,” which was written by and starred Tarra Conner Jones. Presented in tandem with “Float,” a tribute to Broadway and TV performer Nell Carter, it was directed by Jacobs.

Jacobs said he would like to bring “Ruby,” WBTT’s first homegrown musical production that premiered in the 2023-24 season, to the Winston-Salem festival, but that it isn’t yet feasible because of economics.

The IBTT pays its presenting companies a flat fee for their shows and a large, elaborate production such as “Ruby” is too costly to take to the festival, he says.

In an telephone interview following the festival, Jacobs himself was still floating. “The whole city shuts down, just like the Olympics. You have buses taking people all over the city. We were one of the highlights of the show,” he said.

The tough part was getting home to Sarasota as Tropical Storm Debby approached and strengthened into a hurricane. Jacobs escaped unscathed because he was headed north to New York City for meetings.

The rest of the entourage made it from Winston-Salem to Atlanta before the storm. After their flights were repeatedly canceled, Leach made the decision to rent vans and have the WBTT team drive to Sarasota. By the time they got home, the worst of Hurricane Debby’s wrath had passed.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

Sarasota philanthropist Ernie Kretzmer, a generous supporter of the city’s artistic institutions, died Aug. 24 at age 99.

Remembering a scientist who nurtured Sarasota’s arts Ernie Kretzmer died on Aug. 24, four months shy of his 100th birthday.

f you’ve ever attended a performance of the orchestra, ballet, theater or a chamber music concert in Sarasota, no doubt you’ve heard the name Ernie Kretzmer.

The longtime Sarasota resident, who died Aug. 24 at the age of 99, was a generous donor to Sarasota’s arts organizations, both in his own name and in honor of his late second wife, Alisa Kretzmer.

An open house at Kretzmer’s Lido Key home on Aug. 27-28 hosted by his family drew a wide array of luminaries from Sarasota’s arts and charitable organizations.

Daniel Jordan, concert master for Sarasota Orchestra, stopped by on the afternoon of Aug. 28, having just arrived from New Mexico, where he was performing with the Santa Fe Opera.

Jordan recalled Kretzmer’s love of music and his generosity, noting that the first violin that he played upon joining the Sarasota Orches-

tra in 1998 was purchased by the retired scientist and inventor. At the time, the orchestra was known as the Florida West Coast Symphony.

Also on hand to pay her respects to Kretzmer’s son, Peter Kretzmer, was Marcy Miller, executive director of Artist Series Concerts, one of the many cultural organizations that Ernie Kretzmer supported.

Miller’s relationship with Kretzmer was relatively new, since she only joined Artist Series Concerts in 2019, after spending six years at the William King Museum of Art in Virginia.

Like others paying tribute to Kretzmer on Lido Key, Miller remembered the philanthropist as a man of great joy and generosity.

According to a eulogy by Peter Kretzmer, his father was born Dec. 24, 1924, in Germany and was fortunate to escape the Nazi persecution with the help of his sister, Laurie.

The Kretzmer family first moved to the Isle of Man in England.

In his eulogy, Peter Kretzmer noted his father spoke English “like a royal” and sprinkled his conversation with such Shakespearean aphorisms as “To thine own self be true,” wisdom that he passed along to his son and daughter, Wendy. (The siblings were not named for the characters in the children’s book “Peter Pan,” Peter told guests.)

From a young age, Ernie Kretzmer

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had a love of music. He also liked to take things like radios apart and tinker with them. This mechanical aptitude served him well in his education, first at Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Massachusetts, where he attended college, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he earned his Ph.D. CHARTING HIS OWN COURSE

In an interview, Peter Kretzmer said his father discovered Sarasota while on a business trip to Miami during his 35-year career at Bell Laboratories, the research arm of AT&T. “Initially, my dad wasn’t big on Florida because he said everyone retired there. He wasn’t a follower,” he said. “But then he discovered Sarasota after seeing a reference in Time magazine to the town as a cultural pearl.”

Ernie Kretzmer was first a snowbird, buying a time-share property and later a condo on Benjamin Franklin Drive on Lido Key. In 1989, he moved to Sarasota full time after retiring. He built a home on Polk Drive with his second wife, Alisa, whom he married in 1983.

Kretzmer’s first wife, Suzanne, died in 1981 at age 54 after several bouts of cancer. Her family members perished in Hitler’s concentration camps and she was never able to recover from the trauma, her son said.

In a fortuitous twist of fate, Peter Kretzmer was later able to buy the condo his father first owned after it came up for sale many years later, just when Peter was moving to Sarasota in 2018. “It really feels like home to me,” he says.

When Peter Kretzmer was growing up, he remembered his father being frugal and calculating tips with exactitude. He credits his late stepmother with encouraging his father to expand from being a music aficionado to becoming a full-fledged patron of the arts.

Recent arrivals to Sarasota will know that Ernie Kretzmer’s later life

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was enriched by his wife’s caretaker, Dorathea Sandland, a registered nurse who became his companion after Alisa’s death.

“Dorathea watched my dad slowly age while still enjoying life here and attending events galore,” Peter Kretzmer told mourners at his father’s funeral. “They became a pair on the social scene, and Dorathea helped my dad through heart surgery, walking difficulties necessitating a new hip and the other inconveniences of aging. Through it all, Dad never complained, always intent on enjoying and taking advantage of the cultural life around him while he could.”

It would take more than a page in a newspaper to enumerate all the important financial contributions Kretzmer made to Sarasota’s arts and charitable organizations. He once told a reporter that he supported more than 60 different groups. His favorites were Sarasota Orchestra, Sarasota Opera, Sarasota Ballet and Florida Studio Theatre. In 2015, he donated $500,000 to FST to build housing for its artists.

2510 1st Street West Bradenton, FL 34208 941.748.4679

Peter Kretzmer, his father, Ernie Kretzmer and, Ernie’s companion, Dorathea Sandland, enjoy a black-tie event.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

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THIS WEEK THURSDAY

MODERN WORKS FESTIVAL 2 p.m. Lia Romeo’s “A Nice Motherly Person;” 5 p.m. Baylee Schlichtman’s “In the Mouth of the Beast;” 8 p.m. Sarah Elizabeth Grace’s “I’m Saving You a Seat.”

Urbanite Theatre, 1487 Second St. Festival pass $45-$57 Visit UrbaniteTheatre.com.

This is the fifth annual installment of Urbanite Theatre’s Modern Works Festival featuring the new works of emerging female playwrights. At the end, panelists, attendees and guest adjudicators will vote for their favorite new work, and the winner

will take home a prize of $3,200.

Award-winning playwright Lauren Gunderson is the keynote speaker.

Runs through Sept. 8.

‘THE FOUR C NOTES’ 8 p.m. at FST’s Goldstein Cabaret, 1239 N. Palm Ave. $18-$42 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

OUR PICK Courtesy images

For fans of Frank Valli and the Four Seasons, the doo-wop sound never goes out of style. With “The Four C Notes,” Florida Studio Theatre continues the tradition of presenting Four Seasons tribute shows inspired by “Jersey Boys” and starring performers from the Broadway smash

DON’T MISS ‘THE FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN: INTERSTATE CONNECTIONS’ 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. Runs through Sept. 15.

hit’s touring production. Runs through Oct. 13.

FRIDAY NEW EXHIBITIONS: PRECIOUS DARLING, TANNER SIMON AND BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF MANATEE COUNTY 10 a.m. at Art Center Sarasota, 707 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota Free Visit ArtCenterSarasota.org.

Art Center Sarasota’s latest round of exhibitions features artists Precious Darling, Tanner Simon and teens from the Boys & Girls Club of Manatee County. Darling’s “How He Sees Me” uses black-and-white photography and sculpture to focus on how women are viewed, while Simon’s “Big Soup, Big Responsibility” explores the intersection of humor and gravity with large-scale paintings. Runs through Sept. 28.

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily Where: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St. Tickets: $28 Info: Visit Selby.org.

‘THE MOUSETRAP’ 7:30 p.m. at the Pinkerton Theatre, 140 Tampa Ave. W., Venice $35 Visit VeniceTheatre.org.

Scott Keys directs the Venice Theatre’s production of Agatha Christie’s murder mystery, which has been playing in London’s West End since November 1952. Runs through Sept. 15.

COMEDY LOTTERY Everyone’s a winner in this FST Improv show where audience members select the night’s lineup of games replete with scenes, sketches and songs designed to provoke laughter. Runs Saturdays through Sept. 28.

SATURDAY ‘SKYWAY’ ART EXHIBITION 10 a.m. at The Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bayshore Road, and the Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail $30 at The Ringling (free Mondays); $15 at Sarasota Art Museum Visit SkywayTampaBay.com.

The triennial contemporary Florida art exhibition “Skyway” encompasses five museums in the Tampa Bay area. Even if you don’t have time to visit all five, check out The Ringling Museum of Art and the Sarasota Art Museum. Runs through Jan. 25 at The Ringling and Oct. 27 at SAM.

MONDAY BALLET AND THEATER COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE 10 a.m. at FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail Free Visit AsoloRep.org.

IF YOU GO When: 7:30 p.m.

Where: FST’s Bowne’s Lab, 1265 First St. Tickets: $15-$18 Info: Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

servatory Director Marcus Denard Johnson and presentations throughout the day. Food will be available for purchase from Empanada Girl food truck.

TUESDAY DECADES REWIND: ‘ALL THAT MUSIC’ 2 and 7 p.m. at Manatee Performing Arts Center $32-$40 Visit ManateePerforming-ArtsCenter.com.

The three arts companies housed in the FSU Center for the Performing Arts — Sarasota Ballet, Asolo Repertory Theatre and FSU/Asolo Conservatory — show what they have to offer. The schedule includes a “Meet the Leadership” panel with Asolo Rep Producing Artistic Director Peter Rothstein, Sarasota Ballet Director Iain Webb and Interim Con-

Jukebox Revolution’s live eightpiece band follows the history of the golden years of rock ’n’ roll — the ’60s ’70s and ’80s.

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SINGLE TICKETS ON SALE SATURDAY, SEPT. 7 • 10AM Shrek–The Musical n ......................... Sept. 24-25 John Crist n ................................................. Sept. 26 Billy Ocean n .................................................. Oct. 15 The Life And Music of George Michael n .................................... Oct. 20 Dear Evan Hansen n ................................. Nov. 1-2 Neil Berg’s 50 Years of Rock N Roll, Part VII n .............................. Nov. 7 Wheel Of Fortune Live! n ......................... Nov. 12 The Commodores n ................................... Nov. 16 Air Supply: The Lost In Love Experience n ............................................ Nov. 17 Cirque Dreams Holidaze n ....................... Nov. 19 Black Violin–BV20: Then & Now n ........ Nov. 21 Leslie Jones Live n .................................... Nov. 22 Disney Jr Live On Tour: Let’s Play n .... Nov. 23

Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Tour n ....................................... Dec. 1 Derek Hough: Dance for the Holidays n ....................... Dec. 4 Lewis Black: Goodbye Yeller Brick Road n ................................... Dec. 6 Allman Betts Family Revival n ............... Dec. 11 Debbie Gibson’s Winterlicious n ........... Dec. 12 Tina–The Tina Turner Musical n ...... Dec. 13-15 Matt Fraser n ................................................ Dec. 17 The Four Phantoms Holiday Concert n ................................... Dec. 18 Top Of The World: A Carpenters Christmas Show n .................................. Dec. 20 Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland n ........................................... Dec. 22 Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet n ................................. Dec. 27

BROADWAY n

STARS n

Straight No Chaser: Top Shelf n ............ Dec. 28 Salute To Vienna New Year’s Concert n ........................... Dec. 29 Clue n ......................................................... Dec. 30-31 Menopause The Musical 2 n ..................... Jan. 4 The Greatest Love Of All: A Tribute to Whitney Houston n ............................. Jan. 5 Funny Girl n ............................................. Jan. 14-19 Frankie Avalon n ......................................... Jan. 21 Yacht Rock Revue n ................................... Jan. 23 HMS Pinafore n ............................................ Jan. 27 The Addams Family n ......................... Jan. 28-29 Evil Woman: The American ELO n .......... Feb. 4 The Drifters, Cornell Gunter’s Coasters & The Platters n ..................... Feb. 5 Forever Tango n ............................................ Feb. 6 Kenny Wayne Shepherd: Dirt On My Diamonds Tour n ................. Feb. 7

COMEDY n

HOLIDAY n

MUSIC n

Steve Solomon: My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish and I’m STILL In Therapy . . . n ........................... Feb. 10 Burton Cummings & His Band 60th Anniversary Tour with Support from Jim Messina n ................................ Feb. 11 Herb Alpert & Lani Hall In Concert n .... Feb. 12 Chris Botti n .................................................. Feb. 14 Paula Poundstone n .................................. Feb. 15 Alton Brown Live: Last Bite n ................ Feb. 16 Come From Away n .............................. Feb. 18-20 Nitty Gritty Dirt Band: All The Good Times n ............................. Feb. 25 Stayin’ Alive n .............................................. Feb. 26 Neil Berg’s 115 Years Of Broadway n .... Mar. 2 The Temptations & The Four Tops n ......................................... Mar. 3

FAMILY FUN n

Twyla Tharp Dance– Diamond Jubilee n ................................... Mar. 4 Rain: A Tribute To The Beatles n ............ Mar. 6 Matteo Bocelli n ......................................... Mar. 12 Jay Leno With Special Guest Arsenio Hall n .......................................... Mar. 14 Get The Led Out: A Celebration of “The Mighty Zep” n ......................... Mar. 15 Itzhak Perlman In Recital n ................... Mar. 16 Moulin Rouge–The Musical n .......... Mar. 18-23 The Simon & Garfunkel Story n ................ Apr. 1 The Branford Marsalis Quartet n ........... Apr. 2 Les Misérables n ...................................... Apr. 8-13 The Rocket Man Show n .......................... Apr. 16 Beetlejuice n .......................................... Apr. 22-27 Arrival From Sweden: The Music Of ABBA n ............................. Apr. 29 Rick Thomas: Mansion Of Dreams n ..... May 2

SPECIALS n

SPONSORS: Lexus of Sarasota, ABC 7, Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation, Veteran Air, Senior Friendship Centers, Hyatt Regency Sarasota, Cruise Planners & Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Arietta, The Owen Golden Gate Point, Smith Home Team Re/Max Alliance Group, Rosewood Residences Lido Key, Embassy Suites by Hilton Sarasota, Discover Sarasota Tours, BCB Homes, Westin Hotels & Resorts, Stella/Gold Coast Eagle, LyteWorks, AMARA, Eager Beaver Car Wash, The Mall at University Center, Observer Media Group, Herald-Tribune Media Group, VOCO Sarasota Downtown, Sarasota Magazine, Michael’s on East, Mattison’s Restaurants & Catering, Piano Distributors, WUSF Public Media, SRQ Media Group, WEDU PBS and Spectrum Reach

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18

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

A Mark Twain enthusiast tackles an age-old story IF YOU GO

MONICA ROMAN GAGNIER ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

T

he ghost of Mark Twain has haunted Alan Kitty nearly his entire life.

Like many a child, he read “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and dreamed of running away from home and living the way Tom did.

Only the river that Kitty planned to navigate by raft wasn’t the Mississippi in Missouri, but the Susquehanna in central Pennsylvania.

He even packed some of his belongings in a knapsack. But like most young boys on the Twain Trail, he was back home by dinner.

Unlike many young rascals, Kitty didn’t outgrow his fascination with Twain and his colorful cast of characters. Instead, the actor/playwright has made a career impersonating the author of such classics as “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” and “A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court.”

Since 1979, Kitty has portrayed Twain, whose real name was Samuel Clemens, more than 1,000 times — both on stage and film and at corporate events — all over the country.

In an eerie coincidence, Kitty has also lived around the corner from where Twain once resided. “I lived in New York for more than 12 years, and I found out after the fact that every neighborhood I moved into, Mark Twain also happened to have lived there,” he says.

After pausing for dramatic effect (Kitty is nothing but dramatic, even in real life), he adds, “which freaked me out not a little bit.”

One day not long after Kitty moved to New York City, around the corner from Washington Square, he noticed a plaque at 21 Fifth Ave. stating that Samuel Clemens lived there from 1904-08. “This discovery was incredible to me because I had just

‘ORIGINAL SIN’ When: 7:30 p.m. on Sept. 6-8 and Sept. 13-15 Where: Tree Fort Productions, The Crossings at Siesta Key mall, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 136 Tickets: $40 Info: Visit MarkTwainEducation.org or call 813-543-6613.

started performing as Twain,” Kitty says.

That wasn’t the first time Kitty found himself walking in the footsteps of Twain. When Kitty was starting out professionally, he went into the printing business, which was — you guessed it — Twain’s first line of work.

Scientists actually have a name for Kitty’s Twain experience. It’s called “frequency illusion,” where something you recently learned about or has become important to you seems to be around every corner.

Kitty’s not likely to find one of Twain’s former residences in Sarasota. But he’s still mining the works of the All-American raconteur for his creative endeavors. Most recently, Kitty starred in “Mark Twain: They Told Me to Be Brief,” at The Sarasota Players in February 2023.

Helping encourage his creativity since he arrived in Sarasota 11 years ago is a group called the Sarasota Area Playwrights Society. SAPS, as it is known for short, was founded in 2007 by George Loukides and has since grown from a small group of actors and playwrights to more than 70 members.

Kitty’s latest effort, a play called “Original Sin,” is based on Twain’s works, “The Diaries of Adam & Eve,” a series of monologues he wrote between 1904-06. The work was Twain’s tribute to his wife, Olivia, who died in 1904.

“Original Sin” follows Adam and Eve as they discover life and each other. Kitty plays Adam, and Jill Schroeder stars as Eve in a produc-

Monica Roman Gagnier

Jill Schroeder and Alan Kitty rehearse for Kitty’s play “Original Sin,” which makes its world premiere Sept. 6 at Tree Fort Productions.

tion being produced by the Mark Twain Society and directed by Alan Brasington.

Following a recent rehearsal of “Original Sin” in the playwright’s Sarasota home, Kitty and his team sat down for a conversation about their upcoming production. It will run at Katherine Michelle Tanner’s Tree Fort Productions in The Crossings at Siesta Key mall Sept. 6-8 and Sept. 13-15.

Asked why older actors were playing Adam and Eve, who were newly created by God and presumably should be in the bloom of youth, Kit-

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Since 1979, Kitty has portrayed Twain, whose real name was Samuel Clemens, more than 1,000 times — both on stage and film and at corporate events — all over the country.

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ty replies, “In the Bible, it says Adam lived to be 900 years old.”

Then Kitty, who is in his 70s, has a little time left before he hits the age mark for Adam.

In the tradition of “great minds think alike,” it turns out another adaptation of Twain’s “The Diaries of Adam & Eve” was simultaneously developed on the West Coast. It was written by Ed Weinberger, a TV sitcom writer best known for hit shows like “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” and “Taxi.”

The “Journals of Adam and Eve” played at The Barry Marshall Theatre in Burbank in January. In Weinberger’s version of the Garden of Eden tale, Adam is 93 years old and was played by Hal Linden.

Eve, whose age isn’t disclosed, was portrayed by Sally Struthers.

(Maybe Eve was the first woman who declined to reveal her age.)

In Kitty’s production, the playwright and lead actor explains that there is a quality of timelessness that makes the age of the performers irrelevant.

There is also a fair amount of bickering about gender differences, sure to spark recognition and laughter from the audience. The more things change ...

The fact that Kitty’s mythical Garden of Eden will be on stage in a part of Florida that some residents consider paradise should ramp up the believability quotient. But will there be palm leaves instead of fig leaves?

Kitty’s keeping mum about the costumes, although he volunteered he has grown a beard for his role as Adam.

The staging of “Original Sin” in Sarasota follows a reading in New York for a producer Schroeder helped locate who was interested in the material.

“Things didn’t turn out as planned, but that’s OK,” Kitty says.

It only took him about a week to locate funding for his production in Sarasota, which Kitty says is testament to local support for the arts.

“It’s a wonderful, loving arts community,” he says.

www.catdepot.org/shop

THE MUSIC OF GIUSEPPE VERDI

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Alan Kitty brings his play ‘Original Sin’ to Tree Fort Productions.

2542 17th St., Sarasota, FL 34234 | www.catdepot.org | 941.366.2404

Nov. 15 & 17, 2024

Sarasota Youth Opera

SEUSSICAL presents

2025 WINTER OPERA FESTIVAL

CAVALLERIA RUSTICANA Pietro Mascagni AND

PAGLIACCI

THE BARBER OF SEVILLE

TM

Gioachino Rossini Feb. 22 – March 29, 2025

Music by STEPHEN FLAHERTY

Ruggero Leoncavallo Feb. 15 – March 29, 2025

Lyrics by LYNN AHRENS

THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart March 8 – 28, 2025

Book by LYNN AHRENS, STEPHEN FLAHERTY Co-Conceived by LYNN AHRENS, STEPHEN FLAHERTY & ERIC IDLE

STIFFELIO Giuseppe Verdi March 15 – 30, 2025

Based on the works of Dr. Seuss

- 22, 2024 12 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34239

All performances in the original language with simultaneous translations above the stage.

(941) 328-1300 • SARASOTAOPERA.ORG

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Sarasota Opera House • 61 N. Pineapple Avenue, Sarasota

Classifieds 32 Games 31 Real Estate 29 Weather 31

SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

YOUR NEIGHBORS

Samantha Jones and Lillie Esposito of Sarasota Youth Sailing

Curt Wheeler and Brynn DeJongh of Sarasota Yacht Club

N KIDS

SET SAIL Sarasota Youth Sailing took the helm from Sarasota Sailing Squadron for the 76th Annual Labor Day Regatta.

ick Lovisa, sailing director at Sarasota Youth Sailing, has been involved in the sport since he was 8 years old.

He said the Annual Labor Day Regatta is important for introducing kids, and the viewing public, to sailing and the lifelong enjoyment it offers.

“It’s a lifelong sport, and when a kid gets hooked on it, it is definitely life-changing,” he said. “It’s not just a small thing you come to and you do and then you forget about it. It’s a community.”

In past years, the Sarasota Sailing Squadron had hosted the event, which began in 1946, however, Sarasota Youth Sailing took the helm for the regatta’s 76th year.

The two-day event was off to a promising start Aug. 31 with favorable weather and propulsive winds.

The event brings together some 160 kids, some as young as 6 years old, from various sailing clubs, including the Sailing Squadron, Florida Yacht Club, Manatee River Youth Sailing and others.

“For a lot of them, it’s their first regatta,” Lovisa said. “They’re just getting a taste for what all this is.”

Jason Herpai, who is 11 years old, has been sailing for about a year. He said he enjoys the competition of the sport and the fact that the results are never predictable due to wind gusts that can appear anywhere.

“It’s not like a race where if you start first, you’re probably going to end first,” he said. “Because for sailing, you could start like the middle and then get first place.”

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— IAN SWABY

Photos by Ian Swaby

Alexander Sanderson of Manatee River Youth Sailing

The boats of Alexander Getzels and Alexander Hryniewicz, of Sarasota Youth Sailing, and Harper Emerson and Ashley Korakis, of Davis Island Race Team

20

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

Bratwursts and burgers L

ongboat Harbour condominium brought the All-American fun to celebrate Labor Day on Sept. 2.

Bratwursts and burgers were the main meal at its Labor Day party. Sparky Pashkow and Greg Bodkin manned the grill outside while Karen Pashkow and Connie DiMaggio set up red, white and blue decorations in the clubhouse to get everyone in the spirit.

About 30 residents attended the party for Sparky Pashkow’s grilling and laughter with their neighbors. They raved about Bodkin’s homemade desserts, which included red, white and blue cupcakes and brownies.

Bodkin said he has loved baking all his life and was excited to make it for his friends at Longboat Harbour. Bodkin currently works at the Publix bakery in his retirement.

Pashkow said that this Labor Day party was perfect for spending it with their close friends and catching up while the summer is coming to a close.

“We have been living here for 20 years now,” said resident Al Fischbein. “The people are just amazing. You can just tell from parties like this. Even though it’s small because we are out of season, we still have great food and a lot of fun.”

— PETRA RIVERA

Al Fischbein, John Caruso, Connie DiMaggio, Susan D’Aloia and Carol Fischbein prepare to eat at Longboat Harbour’s Labor Day party.

Photos by Petra Rivera

Greg Bodkin shows off his homebaked goodies with Connie DiMaggio.

Jeff and Joyce Hecklau at Longboat Harbour’s Labor Day party.

Gail Gelber, Abbe Catapano, Wendy Winick and Pam O’Halloran Blevins enjoy food and friends at Longboat Harbour’s Labor Day party.

JEFF RHINELANDER

COURTNEY TARANTINO

941-685-3590

941-893-7203

jeff@jeffrhinelander.com

courtney.tarantino@floridamoves.com

443F John Ringling Blvd. • Sarasota, FL 34236

PALMER FARMS

GRAND BAY IV

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2651 GERRY ROAD / SARASOTA, FL JUST SOLD - $2,400,000

3010 GRAND BAY BLVD., #422 / LONGBOAT KEY, FL NOW PENDING - $1,145,000

Discover an environment defined by supreme style and designed for all occasions. This 2 bedroom 2 bath home has been meticulously maintained and updated.

The living room offers easy access to the lanai for sipping your morning latte and relaxing by the lush, tranquil landscaping. The previously closed off den has been opened to create an open concept feel and now provides picturesque views to the outdoor spaces.

Represented the buyer of this just under 11-acre expanse of property, located at the very end of a canopy road, centrally located in Sarasota. Large portions of this land remain primarily untouched, however it does include two barns with seven stalls and three private paddocks, a 25’ x 30’ covered parking area (all with water and electric) and a pond.

Representing the buyer of this 2BR/3.5BA residence with sweeping water views of Sarasota Bay. Grand Bay is a gated community with a 24-hour manned gatehouse.

It features 2 heated swimming pools with spas, tennis courts, clubhouse for meetings and parties, state of the art fitness center plus Beach access at the exclusive Bay Isles Beach club.

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

21

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

Fannie’s House Call Pet Grooming

F

annie Bushin’s toy poodle, Miles, hated going to groomers. She said the chaos and loudness of the environment made him and most dogs nervous.

While working her corporate job, Bushin took it upon herself to learn to groom Miles.

After her night pet-grooming classes, people started to notice how dapper Miles looked. Soon, she found herself grooming others’ pets in her neighborhood.

Inspired by her father Howard’s entrepreneurial skills, Bushin quit her job and started grooming dogs full time. Her life-long love for animals was combined with her passion for creativity.

Now, she is Longboat Key’s resident in-house dog groomer.

BUSINESS DATA

Design and Merryfield Pet Grooming Academy Family: Rose Mary Bushin, mother; Rosa Maria Portillo, grandmother; Miles the toy poodle; and cockatoos Eydie and Lydia How long in this area: Since 2021

CAREER

Line of Business: Pet Grooming Owner: Fannie Bushin Founded: 2021 Price Range: $150 for a new dog’s first session Phone: (941) 315-8150 Website: FanniesPetGrooming.com

PERSONAL

Birthplace: New York Residence: Sarasota Education: Parsons School for

First Paying Job: Publix on Longboat Key because she used to come with her family every summer.

Between then and now: “I was working in finance for a freight forwarding company in Miami. Not a dream job by any means. It was a typical desk job, but I’m not that kind of person.”

How she came to the area: To spend time with her father, who was terminally ill.

Claim to fame: “Word of mouth mostly, but everyone also knows my car. I have a white Mini Cooper with my logo of a poodle on it. So many people will call out when they see it, ‘Hi, Fannie the Dog Groomer.’”

INTERESTS/PASSIONS

Favorite pastime: Taking walks on the beach with her dog Miles and reading Most recent read: “Untamed”

by Glennon Doyle Favorite television show: “Seinfeld” Why Longboat Key? “The people are so nice, and everyone has such

interesting stories. I love getting to know about their lives and what they were like before Longboat.”

PHILOSOPHY

Business philosophy: “Honestly, just to be safe. That is the most important thing when it comes to grooming. The dog comes first. It’s not just about a pretty haircut. It is also about hygiene for the dog and safety.”

Best business advice you can give: “I changed my whole life. So, if you have an idea, you have to go for it. That’s what I told my mom after my dad passed away. She was so depressed and I said, ‘Just pick something that you enjoy.’ She enjoys being with pets, like me, so now she dog-sits for my clients.

You can literally do anything.”

Heroes: “My dad. He was entrepreneurial and loved to work for himself, and I also love to work for myself. He was very hard working, and he loved animals. He used to bring home all sorts of pets, which was a great way to grow up.”

Current goal: “I have been working toward becoming a Nationally Certified Master Groomer. So, you compete in five practical grooming tests. I did three already. I have two more to go, and then there’s a big written test at the end. I’m taking my time with it. I’m in no rush.”

— PETRA RIVERA

Petra Rivera

Fannie Bushin holds her toy poodle, Miles.

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

431412-1

941.724.7228

CathyMeldahl@michaelsaunders.com

Take it Easy. Take Visit scgov.net/breeze for information on how to ride.

428788-1

427367-1

• Consistent top producer on Longboat Key • In-depth knowledge of the real estate market • Active in our community with Longbeach Village Association Longboat Key Historical Society Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce Longboat Key Garden Club

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

Leading the market in 2024!

G

N MI

CO

23

N

O SO

TOP 1%

of 1.46M Realtors

Top Producing Group Sarasota/Manatee Counties

$3+ Billion Career Sales Volume

Top 100 Agents RealTrends—All Florida

48+Years

Selling Sarasota & Manatee Counties

GOLDEN GATE POINT

4BR/4.5BA | 3,290 SQ FT | Private 2-Car Garage | Unobstructed Bay & City Views | Amazing Downtown Sarasota Waterfront Location

WATER CLUB I

$4,375,000

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

GRAND BAY II

3040 GRAND BAY BLVD., #283 | 3BR/3BA | 2,550 SQ FT Direct Sunrise & Sunset Views | Custom Updates | Porcelain Tile & Oak Wood Floors | Private Elevator Foyer | 2 Balconies

$2,295,000

25 20 R TE CY AR PAN U U ST Q 1 OCC

CLUB LONGBOAT BEACH & TENNIS

$1,075,000

5055 GULF OF MEXICO DR. #436 | 3BR/3BA | 1,632 SQ FT Former Developer’s Unit | Pet-Friendly | Unique 2-Story Floor Plan Completely Updated | Turnkey Furnished | 8 Tennis Courts | 2 Pickleball Courts

NG

PE

ESPLANADE

$5,995,000

1429 N. LAKE SHORE DR. | 5BR/5 FULL BA & 2 HALF BA | 4,545 SQ FT Under Construction | Open Plan | Gourmet Kitchen Wine Room | Resort-style Pool & Spa | Large Private Lot

NG

I ND

PE

$1,249,500

3BR/3BA | 2,270 SQ FT Private Lakefront Lot | Extensive Upgrades | Gourmet Kitchen | Full-house Tesla Solar System

THE LANDINGS

$1,775,000

4812 PEREGRINE POINT DIR W | 5 BR/5BA | 3,579 SQ FT Open Floor Plan | Dream Kitchen with Viking Wine Cooler | Vaulted Ceilings | Outdoor Oasis with Pool | Master Suite with Spa Bath | Spacious Half-acre Cul-de-sac Lot

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

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I ND

OYSTER BAY ESTATES

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

TURNING

Dreams

your

Headed on a trip? Snap a photo of you on vacation holding your Observer, then submit your photo online at YourObserver.com/ ItsReadEverywhere. Stay tuned for this year’s prize, and happy travels!

into an ADDRESS

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

IT’S READ EVERYWHERE

$1,595,000

1065 Gulf of Mexico Drive #302

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

SOLD

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? Maggie Hicks, Coldwell Banker maggiehicks201@gmail.com 941.321.1759

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

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

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

NARROW VIEW: Susan and Don Talbot stand in front of the Flume Gorge at Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire, with the Longboat Observer.

Island life begins here.

JUST LISTED - OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 1-4 PM

3310 Sabal Cove Ln. 4BR | 4BA | 4,465 SF $3,000,000 | A4620096 UNDER CONTRACT

JUST SOLD

Caleb lives in beautiful Sarasota. At home, there’s not always food.

He’s like a lot of kids. Nearly half of his classmates go home to empty refrigerators every day.

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

Each year, 70,000 of our neighbors Nearly 200,000 are at risk. look to All Faiths Food Bank for help.

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

Give now. Hunger is close. Right here. Right now.

Living and Working on Longboat Key REALTOR®, MBA 941.780.6001

julieklick@ michaelsaunders.com

Beverly St. Hilaire

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

941.379.6333 allfaithsfoodbank.org

417717-1

Julie Klick

431305-1

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

1

TOP

%

$3.4 Billion Career Sales

IN THE WORLD

Leah Leah George George

Judy Kepecz-Hays Judy Kepecz-Hays

25

Steven Kepecz

941-780-0597 941-587-1700 941-376-6411

Coldwell Banker

3500 Bayou Louise Lane

$10,500,000 Furnished

This prestigious estate, located on the northern tip of Siesta Key, presents unrivaled Gulf Coast views. Spanning an impressive 6,300 square feet, this residence boasts 5 bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms. Indulge in luxury with a grand 40x20 pool and spa, complemented by a boat lift and 12x20 platform. The main level features a primary suite, dedicated library, and a chef’s kitchen outfitted with premium appliances. Additionally, the property includes a spacious 4-car garage. Under contract for new roof. Residents also enjoy access to beach just steps away.

Discover more at www.3500BayouLouise.2seeit.com

ARIA

2251 Gulf of Mexico Drive #204

$7,999,000

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!

Discover more at 2251GulfofMexicodr.2seeit.com

IM

L’Ambiance

PR PR O IC VE E M EN

T

WE PAY PROFESSIONAL FEE ON OUR LISTINGS TO THE BUYERS AGENT

415 L’Ambiance Drive #A401 - $5,840,000

Open House on Sunday 09/08 from 1 to 4pm

65 Lighthouse Point Drive - $8,150,000

Luxury living awaits at L’Ambiance on Longboat Key. Updated 3bedroom plus flex room, 3.5 bath, Luxury waterfront architectural on South Longboat Key. Modern 4 bed + den/office + bonus area, 4000 sq ft. Southwest exposure with year-round sunsets, and wraparound terraces with Gulf views. 4.5 bath, 4,941 sq ft. Stunning living room with fireplace, gourmet kitchen, and spacious family area Private elevator, 10 ft ceilings, gourmet kitchen. amenities, steps from pristine beaches. Pet-friendly. opening to a pool with water views. 3-car garage with ample storage and a private 40' dock on a PREMIUM LOCATION Residence F608 under contract, available for assignment. wide protected basin with direct Gulf access.

Explore more at www.lambianceA401.com Explore more at www.65Lighthouse.com

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. Chef's kitchen with high-end appliances and custom cabinetry. 3car garage. Includes deeded beach access.

Open House on Sunday 09/08 from 1 to 4pm

Discover more at www.3312SabalCove.com

1241 Gulf of Mexico Drive #105 $2,575,000 Furnished

Explore more at www.WaterClub105.com 21 & 25 Lands End Lane $16,000,000

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 120-foot 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.

St. Armands Circle 408 Jackson Drive $2,888,000

Spacious 4 bedroom/3-bath home. Features a private pool, lush garden, and contemporary updates. Highlights include a modern kitchen, vaulted ceilings, and a versatile family room. A separate casita adds extra comfort. Enjoy elegant outdoor spaces and a prime location near St. Armands Circle.

Explore more at www.408JacsonDr.2seeit.com

Explore more at www.21LandsEndLane.com

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

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The Water Club

A rare gem at The Water Club on South Longboat Key. 3 bed, 2.5 bath, 2,585 sq ft. Nearly new with garden and partial Gulf views. Southern exposure, 10 ft ceilings, wood flooring, and expansive terraces. Well-managed community with clubhouse, Olympic-sized pool, tennis, and pet-friendly policies.

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

YOUR CALENDAR

26

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM A New Approach to Brain Health Combining Dr. Dale Bredesen’s Protocols with a Primary Care Approach Myths of Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Better Understanding Your Brain Health How & When to Measure Your Brain Health Prevention and Reversal of Cognitive Decline Grey Matters Participation in Centers for Medicare & Medicaid GUIDE Dementia Care Model

FRIDAY, SEPT. 6

MUSIC BY AKIEM ESDAILE 6-9 p.m. at Whitney’s, 6990 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Akiem Esdaile is the new generation of Jazz Guitar. Enjoy the soothing sounds of Sarasota’s most refreshing jazz guitarist. Call 383-4606.

BEST BET

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

430705-1

727 Hudson Avenue Sarasota, FL 34236 (AL#8979)

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.

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.

GULF & BAY VIEWS $4,995,000

TUESDAYS

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

535 Sanctuary Dr Apt C807 | A4612424 Totally Renovated, Penthouse 3/3, 2,580 Sq Ft, Longboat Key LOW RISE CORNER UNIT AVAILABLE $1,595,000

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.

WEDNESDAYS

1145 Gulf of Mexico Dr Unit 301 | A4616017 2/2, Full Gulf Views, Renovated, Longboat Key

BEGINNER TAI CHI From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Class is

File image

SATURDAY, SEPT. 7

EXOTIC CARS ON THE CIRCLE 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on St. Armands Circle Park, 1 St. Armands Circle. Exotic Cars on the Circle comes back to St. Armands with a display of exotic supercars for all to enjoy. Sponsored by Ferrari Drivers SRQ, the event benefits Flight to the North Pole, which provides financial and emotional support to local terminally ill children. Visit StArmandsCircleAssoc.com.

outdoors, weather permitting. Cost is $15. Walk-ins welcome. Call 3836493.

THURSDAYS

ZUMBA & TONING 9:45-10:30 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Taught

by Reena Malik, this class begins with 30 minutes of zumba and finishes with mat Pilates for flexibility and strengthening core muscles.

Come for 30 or 60 minutes. Free for members; $15 for nonmembers.

FRIDAYS

INTERMEDIATE TAI CHI From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Reuben Fernandez teaches Chen style class.

Outside if weather permitting. Free for members; $15 for others. Walkins welcome. Call 383-6493.

DIRECT BAY FRONT $799,900

3070 Grand Bay Blvd #625 | A4608605 2/2, Direct Bay Views, Under Building Parking, Longboat Key

Storm Damage?

Call Teasdale Fenton of Sarasota - We’ve Got You Covered!

Our expert team specializes in water damage removal & restoration, wind & storm damage repair, and mold remediation helping you get your home back to pre-loss condition.

24/7 Emergency Services

Dennis Girard

(941) 229-7020 TeasdaleSarasota.com

Broker Associate

Free Estimates on Water Damage & Mold Restoration!

Why Choose Teasdale Fenton?

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

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Licensed & Insured • IICRC Certified Technicians Background Tested

PENDING

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

CHRIS WETZIG

430510-1

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

ANGELA WETZIG

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

CHRISTOPHER WETZIG TEAM Your Longboat Key Real Estate Experts

2301 GULF OF MEXICO DR #33N ISLANDER CLUB LONGBOAT KEY $1,495,000

428331-1

24/7 Response Times • Family Owned and Operated

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

27

REAL ESTATE BY REAL EXPERTS Address 541 HARBOR POINT RD 551 PUTTER LN 520 CHIPPING LN 3521 BAYOU PT 435 L AMBIANCE DR #K905 355 W ROYAL FLAMINGO DR 601 LONGBOAT CLUB RD #301S 486 E ROYAL FLAMINGO DR 415 L AMBIANCE DR #D206 3590 FAIR OAKS LN 3030 GRAND BAY BLVD #316 3030 GRAND BAY BLVD #393 3540 MISTLETOE LN 3460 MISTLETOE LN 2185 GULF OF MEXICO DR #211 111 S PINEAPPLE AVE #1010 585 SANCTUARY DR #B202 3060 GRAND BAY BLVD #153 1055 GULF OF MEXICO DR #605 470 E ROYAL FLAMINGO DR 1055 GULF OF MEXICO DR #603 3520 FAIR OAKS LN 2120 HARBOURSIDE DR #645 1485 GULF OF MEXICO DR #209 540 BIRD KEY DR 100 SANDS POINT RD #211 1055 GULF OF MEXICO DR #502 2110 HARBOURSIDE DR #538 1045 GULF OF MEXICO DR #501 602 BUTTONWOOD DR 3408 WINDING OAKS DR #53 7105 GULF OF MEXICO DR #11 2016 HARBOURSIDE DR #327 1932 HARBOURSIDE DR #256 518 BAYPORT WAY #518 1930 HARBOURSIDE DR #111 1932 HARBOURSIDE DR #224 4914 LINSEY CT 3580 MISTLETOE LN 1717 ALTA VISTA ST 111 GOLDEN GATE PT #103 8112 GRANDE SHORES DR 1211 GULF OF MEXICO DR #801 545 SANCTUARY DR #B206 111 S PINEAPPLE AVE #520 111 S PINEAPPLE AVE #1016 3475 BYRON LN 1085 GULF OF MEXICO DR #302 1593 BAY HILL CIR 3514 MISTLETOE LN 3010 GRAND BAY BLVD #482 3221 BAYOU WAY 2525 GULF OF MEXICO DR #11B 2295 GULF OF MEXICO DR #64S 1930 HARBOURSIDE DR #155

Subdivision BAY ISLES COUNTRY CLUB SHORES COUNTRY CLUB SHORES BAY ISLES L AMBIANCE BIRD KEY LONGBOAT KEY TOWERS BIRD KEY L AMBIANCE QUEENS HARBOUR GRAND BAY GRAND BAY COREYS LANDING COREYS LANDING VILLA DI LANCIA MARK SARASOTA SANCTUARY GRAND BAY BEACHPLACE BIRD KEY BEACHPLACE QUEENS HARBOUR FAIRWAY BAY PLAYERS CLUB BIRD KEY SANDS POINT BEACHPLACE FAIRWAY BAY BEACHPLACE LONGBOAT SHORES WINDING OAKS LONGBEACH FAIRWAY BAY FAIRWAY BAY BAYPORT BEACH & TENNIS FAIRWAY BAY FAIRWAY BAY PINEHURST VILLAGE COREYS LANDING PRIME SUB EVOLUTION LAKEHOUSE COVE PROMENADE SANCTUARY MARK SARASOTA MARK SARASOTA COREYS LANDING BEACHPLACE DEER HOLLOW COREYS LANDING GRAND BAY BAY ISLES ISLANDS WEST ISLANDER CLUB FAIRWAY BAY

Close Price $7,712,750 $5,750,000 $5,130,000 $3,850,000 $3,750,000 $3,800,000 $2,800,000 $2,800,000 $2,575,000 $2,500,000 $2,250,000 $2,500,000 $2,110,000 $2,000,000 $1,965,000 $1,815,000 $1,800,000 $1,675,000 $1,700,000 $1,675,000 $1,650,000 $1,550,000 $1,721,000 $1,550,000 $1,500,000 $1,350,000 $1,300,000 $1,400,000 $1,300,000 $1,237,500 $1,175,000 $850,000 $862,500 $865,000 $750,000 $665,000 $610,000 $465,000 $3,850,000 $2,900,000 $2,400,000 $2,200,000 $1,800,000 $1,710,000 $1,675,000 $1,640,000 $1,500,000 $865,000 $550,000 $2,100,000 $1,695,000 $1,575,000 $1,299,000 $650,000 $565,000

Close Date 1/5/24 7/12/24 6/28/24 3/8/24 2/15/24 2/1/24 6/26/24 7/1/24 6/24/24 1/26/24 1/16/24 3/28/24 6/4/24 3/29/24 3/25/24 7/31/24 6/26/24 4/26/24 7/23/24 8/9/24 5/7/24 7/26/24 2/13/24 6/5/24 4/30/24 3/6/24 3/29/24 3/8/24 1/12/24 7/17/24 3/6/24 2/13/24 7/17/24 2/29/24 6/21/24 8/22/24 2/22/24 5/23/24 6/17/24 5/24/24 7/29/24 4/22/24 5/9/24 2/28/24 1/4/24 1/16/24 4/30/24 4/19/24 7/19/24 PENDING PENDING PENDING PENDING PENDING PENDING

WEST OF TRAIL • 1886 PROSPECT STREET • SARASOTA

4BR/4BA • 3,444 SF • Built in 2016 • $2,699,000 Offering a 3% buyer broker compensation.

OVER $110 MILLION PENDING & SOLD JUST IN 2024

617 WESTON POINTE COURT • LONGBOAT KEY 4BR/5BA • 4,395 SF • Canal front • $3,495,000 Offering a 3% buyer broker compensation.

NO REALTOR HAS LISTED OR SOLD MORE LONGBOAT KEY PROPERTIES

COUNTRY CLUB SHORES • 1180 BOGEY LANE • LONGBOAT KEY 2BR+DEN/2BA • 2,180 SF • Furnished • $950,000 Offering a 3% buyer broker compensation.

THE MEADOWS • 4737 CHANDLERS FORDE #14 • SARASOTA 2BR+OFFICE /2.5BA • 2,050 SF • Updated • $575,000 Offering a 3% buyer broker compensation.

BRUCE MYER GROUP

• OVER $110 MILLION PENDING AND SOLD - JUST IN 2024 • TOP 10 COLDWELL BANKER SALES ASSOCIATE - 2023 • TOP 1.5% OF ALL REALTORS IN THE NATION • TOP FLORIDA 100 REALTOR - COLDWELL BANKER

Learn more at www.BruceMyer.com

CHASE MYER (941) 315-5318

BRUCE MYER (941) 376-5311

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

417373-1

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.

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

LONGBOAT KEY 3351 Gulf Of Mexico Drive JoDene Moneuse 941-302-4913 A4611688 $10,500,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3310 Sabal Cove Lane 4 Beds 4 Baths 4,465 Sq. Ft. Beverly St Hilaire 818-416-2505 A4620096 $3,000,000

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

SARASOTA 111 S Pineapple Avenue 614 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,065 Sq. Ft. Carol Aviles 941-356-6777 A4617240 $2,395,000

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

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

SARASOTA 1964 Datura Street 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,272 Sq. Ft. Mackenzie Longueuil & Pat Mudgett 941-961-4023 A4600886 $2,145,000

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

SARASOTA 139 N Blvd Of The Presidents 4 Beds 3 Baths 1,740 Sq. Ft. Bruce A Meyer, PA 941-266-8152 A4601025 $1,900,000

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

LONGBOAT KEY 2301 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 21N 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,235 Sq. Ft. Kathy Callahan 941-900-8088 A4618051 $1,399,000

SARASOTA 50 Central Avenue 15A 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,595 Sq. Ft. Thomas Cinquegrano 941-284-5049 A4595996 $1,397,000

LONGBOAT KEY 1000 Longboat Club Road 1103 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,409 Sq. Ft. Jenine Meyer 941-266-8303 A4620940 $1,282,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3235 Gulf Of Mexico Drive A405 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,260 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy & Gail Wittig 941-961-8850 A4602938 $1,195,000

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

LONGBOAT KEY 4825 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 105 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,393 Sq. Ft. JoDene Moneuse 941-302-4913 A4620656 $1,129,900

SARASOTA 1771 Ringling Boulevard 604 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,735 Sq. Ft. Bibi-Ann Allard PA, Kelley Callaway 941-685-0422 A4603447 $1,049,000

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

LONGBOAT KEY 1085 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 304 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,503 Sq. Ft. Mimi Kruk 941-587-5188 A4616922 $795,000

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

LONGBOAT KEY 6700 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 139 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,305 Sq. Ft. Maruta Miluns 941-374-9720 A4611612 $679,000

LONGBOAT KEY 225 Sands Point Road 6103 1 Bed 1 Baths 642 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy & Gail Wittig 941-961-8850 A4621529 $625,000

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

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

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

SARASOTA 605 S Gulfstream Avenue 6N 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 4,333 Sq. Ft. Kim Ogilvie 941-376-1717 A4605840 $8,100,000

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

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

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM 427587-1

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR

REAL ESTATE

Two-bedroom condo tops week’s sales at $1.17 million

29

A

condominium at 615 Dream Island Place tops the week’s sales.

Douglas and Elizabeth Gowan, of Meridian Charter Township, Michigan, sold their Unit 106 condominium at 615 Dream Island Place to Getaway Harbour LLC for $1.17 million. Built in 1985, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,293 square feet of living area. It sold for $550,000 in 2004.

SPANISH MAIN YACHT CLUB

Frank and Annemarie Schippers, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their Unit 67 condominium at 868 Spanish Drive N. to Caroline Schultz, of Windham, New Hampshire, for $925,000. Built in 1967, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,357 square feet of living area. It sold for $600,000 in 2020.

Images courtesy of Julie Franklin

Above and below: Donald and Stephanie Cone sold their Unit PH-4 condominium at Windward Bay at 4500 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Carylee Adamushko-Fili, of Nashville, Tennessee, for $755,000.

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

AUG. 19-23

WINDWARD BAY

Donald and Stephanie Cone sold their Unit PH-4 condominium at 4500 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Carylee Adamushko-Fili, of Nashville, Tennessee, for $755,000. Built in 1975, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,312 square feet of living area. It sold for $629,900 in 2021.

FAIRWAY BAY

Joel and Carolyn Mangel, of Sarasota, sold their Unit 111 condominium at 1930 Harbourside Drive to Lisa Stone, trustee, of Longboat Key,

for $665,000. Built in 1982, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,442 square feet of living area. It sold for $349,900 in 2001.

KINGSTON ARMS

Daina Strong, of Sarasota, sold the Unit 10B condominium at 500 S. Washington Drive to Gregory Gomer, trustee, of Duxbury, Massachusetts, for $653,000. Built in 1963, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,034 square feet of living area. It sold for $370,000 in 2007.

In with the new NOW TAKING CONTRACTS

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

TOP BUILDING PERMITS These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of Aug.23-29 in order of dollar amounts.

LONGBOAT KEY Address

Permit

Applicant

Amount

5523 Gulf Of Mexico Dr

New Con — Res

LBK Rentals LLC

$3,500,000

7094 Longboat Dr E

New Con — Res

Donda Mullis

$2,400,000

455 Longboat Club Rd # 4PH

Alt/Renovation

Steven Thomas (TTEE)

$310,421

7095 Gulf Of Mexico Dr Unit 21 Alt/Renovation

Daniel Pavlovich

$310,000

100 Sands Point Rd # 211

Alt/Renovation

Timothy Murphy

$298,000

2063 Gulf Of Mexico Dr

Alt/Renovation

Robert Elmes &

$156,000

Lindsay Ann Wardman

597 Buttonwood Dr

Longboat Buttonwood Drive $117,545

Swimming Pool/

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

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

MOVE-IN SPRING 2024

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

GOLDEN GATE POINT

LONGBOAT KEY

Spa 780 Emerald Harbor Dr

Swimming Pool/

Lane Smith

$97,000

Spa 780 Old Compass Rd

Handrail/Stairs

Meridee Duddleston

$92,785

3626 Fair Oaks Pl

Swimming Pool

Tonda Mullis

$85,000

3446 Winding Oaks Dr

Windows/Doors

Alfred Wilder

$64,855

Mechanical —

Robert Russell

$40,607

1211 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 1005

Alt/Renovation 620 Bowsprit Ln

Windows/Doors

Coffeeville Limited

$40,040

1211 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 805

Mechanical —

Robert Buzzard

$40,107

MLD1211 LLC

$37,107

De Narvaez Longboat

$35,500

Alt/Renovation 1211 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 708

Mechanical — Alt/Renovation

530 De Narvaez Dr

Electrical —

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

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

New Construction Key LLC 569 Bayview Dr

Electrical —

Bayview Longboat Key LLC $35,500

New Construction 3111 Bayou Sound

Mechanical —

Fanny Cohen-Younger

$33,433

Douglas Scheflow

$27,745

Christopher Leonard

$26,931

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

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

A/C Change Out 5220 Gulf Of Mexico Dr Unit 103 Mechanical — Alt/Renovation Mechanical — Alt/Renovation

MichaelSaunders.com/New-Homes | 844.591.4333 | Sarasota, Florida Source: Town of Longboat Key

Prices as of November 2023

427639-1

625 Norton St

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

T H E G R O U P

Rene DiPinto

John Schafer

Tracey Stetler

Patrick DiPinto

Janette Schafer

Steven Moore

Nicholle DiPinto McKiernan

Over $150,000,000 Volume in the Past 18 Months 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.

SIESTA KEY RECORD PRICE

2400 EZZELL CT | SARASOTA $949,000 – Downtown New Construction 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,532 Sq. Ft.

3621 SAN REMO TER | SARASOTA $9,750,000 – Under Construction 5 Beds 7 Baths 5,328 Sq. Ft.

4136 HIGEL AVE | SIESTA KEY $16,995,000 – SOLD!!

5 Beds 7 Baths 8,964 Sq. Ft.

109 WARBLER LN | BIRD KEY $11,750,000 – Under Construction 4 Beds 5 Baths 5,292 Sq. Ft.

1160 CENTER PLACE | LIDO SHORES $5,499,000 – New Construction 4 Beds 5.5 Baths 4,000 Sq. Ft.

610 YARDARM LN | LONGBOAT KEY $4,699,000 – 1 House from the Bay 4 Beds 4 Baths 4,138 Sq. Ft.

5444 GULF OF MEXICO DR | LONGBOAT KEY $6,900,000.00 – Bayfront 1.06 Acres 5 Beds 5 Baths 6,000 Sq. Ft.

1212 CENTER PLACE | LIDO SHORES $6,995,000 – New Construction 5 Beds 6 Baths 4750 Sq. Ft.

6489 GULFSIDE ROAD | LONGBOAT KEY $16,995,000 – Under Construction 4 Beds 5 Baths 6,614 Sq. Ft.

5440-5442 GULF OF MEXICO DR | LONGBOAT KEY 6,900,000.00 – Vacant Land 2.08 Acres Proposed for 7 Buildable Lots

405 28TH STREET | ANNA MARIA ISLAND $3,600,000 – 3,735 Sq. Ft. 5 Beds 4 Baths

120 MAPLE AVENUE | ANNA MARIA $1,799,500 – West of Gulf Drive 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,764 Sq. Ft.

Contact: Janette Schafer 954-298-7791 John Schafer 954-298-6229

Contact: Patrick DiPinto 941-323-0033

Contact: Tracey Stetler 941-266-9001

Contact: Tracey Stetler 941-266-9001

Contact: Patrick DiPinto 941-323-0033

Contact: Steven Moore 401-767-7180

Contact: Steven Moore 401-767-7180

Contact: Steven Moore 401-767-7180

Contact: Patrick DiPinto 941-323-0033

Contact: Nicholle DiPinto 941-928-2922

Contact: Steven Moore 401-767-7180

Contact: Janette Schafer 954-298-7791 John Schafer 954-298-6229

The DiPinto Group offers 3% Professional Fee to Buyer Agents

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.

425714-1

30

YourObserver.com

31

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

SUNRISE / SUNSET

FRIDAY, SEPT. 6

WEATHER

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

FORECAST

Sunrise Sunset

High: 89 Low: 80 Chance of rain: 36%

Thursday, Sept. 5

7:10a

7:45p

Friday, Sept. 6

7:11a

7:44p

Saturday, Sept. 7

7:11a

7:42p

Sunday, Sept. 8

7:12a

7:41p

SATURDAY, SEPT. 7

Monday, Sept. 9

7:12a

7:40p

High: 89 Low: 79 Chance of rain:42%

Tuesday, Sept. 10

7:13a

7:39p

Wednesday, Sept. 11

7:13a

7:38p

MOON PHASES SUNDAY, SEPT. 8 High: 87 Low: 79 of rain: 48% Sept. 10 First

Sept. 17 Full

Sept. 24 Last

Oct. 2 New

TIDES Highs Lows

Gordon Silver took this photo of a great blue heron waiting patiently for a gator to pass by before continuing on his journey at Celery Fields.

Thursday, Sept. 5

1:46a

2:11p

8:35a

8:52p

Friday, Sept. 6

2:05a

2:56p

9:15a

9:10p

Saturday, Sept. 7

2:27a

3:46p

9:58a

9:27p

Sunday, Sept. 8

2:52a

4:46p

10:47a

9:40p

Monday, Sept. 9

3:20a

6:13p

11:47a

9:42p

Tuesday, Sept. 10

3:54a

—

—

1:04p

Wednesday, Sept. 11

4:40a

—

—

2:30p

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

Daily crossword puzzles available at YourObserver.com/crossword

BACK TO SCHOOL by Adam Levav, edited by Jeff Chen 105 Rod in a hot rod

need to be zipped?

106 “Don’t do that!”

44 Big name in small planes

108 End-of-semester exams 46 Tack on ... or a description of the

47 Nuclear power generator

circled letters

49 Pharmaceutical com-

111 Stop from happening

pany founder Lilly

112 Seed type on some buns 53 Get into 113 Discombobulates

55 Tub for coloring fabric

114 Not moving

57 Salesperson who seals

115 Did some darning

the deal

116 Mean-spirited

60 Country with a popular

DOWN

canal

2 Diet mimicking ancestral fare 3 Experience in “Altered States” 4 Unintentional twitch 5 “I’m already down” 6 Greta Thunberg, for one 7 Scientists’ spaces 8 Egg cells 9 Moist towelette 10 Fitted ___ 11 Actress Courteney of “Friends” 12 Large land mammals 13 Mix of metals ©2024 Universal Uclick

ACROSS 1 Squabbles 6 Nears a stop 11 Morph 17 Savanna tree 18 Greet with a motion 20 Vessels in many water heating systems 21 *Arguments between legislators, say 23 Take advantage of a vulnerability 24 Was in the red 25 Agrees with a motion 26 Horse noise 28 Frog habitat 29 Oversight in a story 31 *Fortnite subgenre

slang

network

79 Birds with brilliant

36 Grain-based brews

59 Refrigerator drawer for

plumage

37 Apple CEO Cook

produce

82 *Document for a new

38 Person lacking pigment

63 Online marketplace for

driver

41 “The ___ is a mass of

trinkets

85 Plenty

incandescent gas” (They

64 *Twizzlers choice

86 Like a good horror movie

Might Be Giants lyric)

67 Prefix between “pico” and 88 Lady of the lea

42 Things shown in breaks

“micro”

89 Indian and Southern

44 “Pretty please?”

68 “Hardly!”

90 “Son of,” in Arabic names

45 *Philosophy prioritizing

70 Taking HRT, for a trans

91 Water-based marker?

profits over people

man

92 “In transit,” in text-speak

48 Potato prep tool

71 “We’re number ___!”

93 Mess hall food

50 Put to work

72 ___ diplomacy (Chinese

94 *Learning acquired by

51 Seized car, for short

foreign policy involving gifts physical repetition

52 Close up

to zoos)

98 Reward for a feline

53 Has an affliction

73 Empty space

102 “Black Swan” actress

54 Honey-based brews

74 Sour fruit often used in

Kunis

56 Underrepresented group gin flavoring

34 Location of the Holy See member, for short 58 “The Walking Dead” 35 Falsehood, in modern

103 Give cash to look the

76 Cold War country (Abbr.) other way, say 78 Tough H.S. courses

104 Items in atlases

14 Like some hospital care 16 Approx.

17 Each 19 “That so?”

20 Observed with reverence 22 Mete (out) 27 Queer representation advocacy org.

30 Lauds 31 Forehead-covering hair 32 Breathe 33 Qatari leader 35 Signal for action on a stage 38 Shrewdness 39 Get beaten by 40 KFC option 41 Rose up 42 “I love you,” in Spanish 43 Attachment that doesn’t

61 Rod at the bottom of a cello 62 Dissing events

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

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“B’ZA CAZAV VAFPPU XRNKERX NT WUOAPT FO HASVAOOAH ON WKMR FO B FW SFVFPUDAH YU RNSA.” OXFCH-KS MNWAHBFC WFVBF YFWTNVH “YSKMU’ MI S PEK PMRA WMIXMU’.

IEZAKMZAI TSKTX SUY FAPASIA MI KXA NAIK ZAKXEY.”

64 Print a new edition

LFSULAF IZMKX, S.R.S.

65 Dental filling

ASFP YMNNPAI GF.

66 Toughen up 69 Words at the altar 72 Like sliced bread 75 Mortal foe 77 Foam finger waver 79 Lacerate 80 Image on a sleeve 81 Mull over 82 Stratum

“CTHI H PXDHV YI CHJ IU CYIEDJJ ITD NDEYMJ ITHI CHJ SUS EDCTHXI. ...

WZHJJB, GYEP, NDEDXUMJ HEP HSJUZMIDZB TYZHXYUMJ.”

83 “Yuck!”

GHZDB WMUWU

84 Makes a new corporate identity 87 Soldier’s action 91 Windmill parts 92 Threat ender 93 Be slack-jawed 95 “Hellraiser” author

© 2024 NEA, Inc.

Puzzle Three Clue: V equals M

1 Death stare

celebrity cipher

Puzzle Two Clue: I equals S

crossword

426212-1

Sarasota 941.355.8437 | Bradenton 941.748.4679 | Venice 941.493.7441 | manasotaonline.com

The Grounded Feeling Everyone will Enjoy

Puzzle One Clue: E equals G

at MANASOTA FLOORING INC

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

Barker 96 Emcees’ devices 97 Woodwind group 98 Behind bars 99 Treat like a god 100 Narrow side path 101 Name hidden in “For Pete’s sake!”

104 Thing which can go viral 106 Controversial chemical in plastics, for short 107 Sinus doc 109 Field for a judge 110 NAACP founding member ___ B. Wells ©2024 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

9-5-24

Made for where you live. Here!

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

Homes for Sale

redpages@yourobserver.com • yourobserver.com/redpages

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

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.

Bradenton: Condo, 2 bed, 2 bath$229,900 Pet friendly 55+ Sarasota: 3 Bed, 2 Bath, 1 Car Garage House $359,000 Sarasota: Pool home, 4 bed. $649,900 Venice: 2/2 Condo Plantation Golf Club. Call for Price Bradenton: Pool Home, New windows, hvac, Completely Updated $689,900 Longboat Key: 4 pools, beach access. $465,000

POST YOUR AD WITH EASE YourObserver.com/RedPages

Garage/ Moving/ Estate Sales SIGNATURE ESTATE SALE

real estate

2019 JEEP CHEROKEE The jeep is in great condition, with new brakes and tires. We are the original owners and have completed all maintenance. $24,000 (248) 939-7530

YourObserver.com/RedPages

Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals

941-955-4888

Autos 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

Cell: 941-809-3725 Offi fic ce: 941-331-8000 www.alhhomecare.com 30211577 | 299995507

Advertise your business or service in the Observer

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.

RED PAGES

Beachfront, Bayfront and In Between

PRIME LOCATION!! **SPACIOUS 4BR, 3BA, 1500 SF HOME WITH POOL** Well-maintained, clean, and perfect for families. Enjoy a fenced-in backyard, washer/dryer, and a short walk to Siesta Key Beach. $5,000/month, annual lease.

Contact us for details!

941-350-4122

Houses or Condos Reservations 941-383-5577 wagnerlbkrentals@gmail.com Visa/MC 5360 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Suite 101

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

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

Longboat Key, FL 34228 Rental office 9a.m. - 5p.m.

SELL YOUR

jobs Help Wanted PART-TIME ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Busy Professional family on LBK needs reliable administrative assistant. Key requirements are proficient computer skills and ability to operate Microsoft Office suite, QuickBooks/ Quicken; excellent organization skills, ability to prioritize, work independently, strong attention to detail.

One-three years relevant experience. Work structure is 3 days a week (6-7 hours a day), hybrid approach remote/ in office is possible.

Contact e-mail for applicants: baldwinhill16@gmail.com

M-F Ask about our special rates!

Wagner Realty

STUFF HERE!

Since 1939 www.rentalsonlongboat.com

YourObserver.com/RedPages

EXCELLENT CAREGIVERS and CNAs, Personal Care, Companions, Meal Prep.

Housekeeping, Incontinence Care from 5 to 24 Hours a day 24/7 (941) 447-4255 www.perfectsolutionsforseniors. com

Auto Transport

941-955-4888

You’re only cheating yourself.

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

Free House Calls.

Discrete/ Confidential. Call David 813-439-2694

Schedule your free in-home consultation today!

SEASONAL RATES

peekers’ place

Merchandise Wanted

•Personal Care •Meal Preparation •Respite Care •Dementia/Alzheimers Care •Medication Reminders •Companionship •Social Outings

WEEKLY MONTHLY CASH FOR YOUR CAR We come to you!

Ho Ho Buys cars.

941-270-4400.

8009 Rio Bella Place, University Park, FL 34201 (Riva Trace)

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

A LENDING HAND Home Health Care

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

Call 941-383-3338.

As low as $17.50 per week!

Saturday September 7th, 11 am to 4 pm

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

IN PRINT AND ONLINE

941-955-4888

GARAGE SALE

Adult Care Services

RED PAGES A POWERFUL COMBINATION

Homes for Rent

Friday September 6th, 11 am to 4 pm

House filled with listed artist artwork, beautiful area rugs, MCM furniture, Danish furniture, beautiful custom made dining room table & chairs, bedroom suits, patio furniture, leather sectional sofa, occasional lamps, keyboard, guitar, jewelry, women’s clothes & women’s western wear, fishing equipment including fly fishing equipment, garage items, artist’s art supplies, and lots of bric a brac.

Brooke O’Malley | Club Realty Call 941-726-2677

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

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

This week’s Crossword answers

CALL TODAY 941-955-4888

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

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

Honest & reliable.

Free estimates. 941-744-1020.

35+ years experience.

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

Residential & Commercial.

Fully Insured.

CALL or TEXT Don 941-900-9398

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “I’ve never really thought of myself as depressed so much as I am paralyzed by hope.”

Stand-up comedian Maria Bamford Puzzle Two Solution: “Datin’ is a lot like fishin’. Sometimes catch and release is the best method.”

Granger Smith, a.k.a. Earl Dibbles Jr. Puzzle Three Solution: “What a dream it was to witness the genius that was Bob Newhart. ... Classy, kind, generous and absolutely hilarious.”

Kaley Cuoco

This week’s Sudoku answers

©2024 NEA, Inc.

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

Autos for Sale

Vamo Area: 2 Bed/2Bath.

1 Car-Gar block house. $350,000

©2024 Universal Uclick

Items Under $200

auto

stuff

Gulf Beachfront Home coming soon: 6.9 million

MOW OVER the competition!

INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888

home services

RED PAGES

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

Alterations/Upholstery

Handyman

33

Painting

Nora’s KEENS HANDYMAN SERVICES SARASOTA PAINTING, LLC Fabrics KEENS HANDYMAN SERVICES

Roofing

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

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

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

Licensed & Insured CCC - 058059 CBC - 1253936

GROW

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.com

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

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

William J. Leininger, JD

YOUR BUSINESS

Home Watch

Advertise as low as $85 per week.

429936

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

CARING HANDS WHILE YOU’RE AWAY FROM HOME.

SELL YOUR CAR!

Exclusively serving Longboat Key residents.

Storm-ready home preparations Handyman & concierge services 430675

FAST • EASY • SAFE

WE COME TO YOU

BLACK LABEL CAR SERVICE “Luxury for Less”

CALL TODAY FOR PEACE OF MIND.

941-281-5539 | kathy@longboatkeyhomewatch.com www.longboatkeyhomewatch.com

429937

941 - 248 - 4734

Professional Contractors Network, Inc.

Let our Network Handle All your Building Needs

429939

MIC INSURANCE

Contractor

All Florida Airports, Concerts & Dinners - Hourly Cruise Ships & Medical | See Specials at: www.blacklabelcarservice.com

Windows

EXPERIENCE KNOWLEDGE SOLUTIONS

Serving Longboat Key Since 2005 Res. | Com. | Lic. | Ins.

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

Email Project Information: PCNestimating@gmail.com 941-527-9414

Home • Condo • Auto • Umbrella • Boat • Flood

Trades welcome to join our network! Please send email

General Contractors 430983

FLORIDA PERMIT EXPERTS Full Service General Contractor

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

Made for where you live. Here!

All Industrial/Commercial Projects Residential Jobs Over $50,000.

430179

SPECIALTIES:

FloridaPermitExpert.com - 689.286.1509

RED PAGES YourObserver.com/RedPages

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

429940

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

430122

Construction Estimating • Custom Homes • Design Build We Prepare Estimates to Challenge Insurance Companies *Hurricane/Flood/Fire

Investor & Property Management Company Assistance Resolving Stop Work Orders Engineer/Architect Referrals

Transportation

Insurance

5-Star Rated

HoHoBuysCars.com

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

410036

Auto Service

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!

429935

CGC1507540

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

Give Us a Call - We Can Help

Divorce without Lawyers

Lic. in FL since 2004

GET YOUR LIFE BACK!

FULLY INSURED • OWNER OPERATED

Do You Have Neck or Low Back Pain?

Do You Want To Avoid Surgery?

Attorney

941.270.4400

Interior / Exterior / Cabinets.

429938

M-F 10 to 4 / Sat 10 to 1

Health

430982

430012

7300 Manatee Ave W Beachway Plaza (941) 545.7319

429997

TEXT OR CALL 574-354-7772

& UPHOLSTERY

431261

INTERIOR RENOVATIONS & ANYTHING FROM THE GROUND UP

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024

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L CO M M SS IO N A E F PR O R O K E R S CO -B

3030 GRAND BAY BOULEVARD #346 Immerse yourself in luxury with this exceptional Antigua residence at Grand Bay, perched on the corner of Building III and offering sweeping panoramic views of Sarasota Bay, Harbourside Golf Course, the marina, and the shimmering downtown skyline. This nearly 3,000-square-foot residence is a sunlit, expansive retreat, perfectly designed for comfort. As you enter, the grandeur of floor-to-ceiling glass sliders draws your attention to the expansive wraparound terrace, where breathtaking vistas create a captivating backdrop. The interior offers a neutral palette, enhancing the lightfilled ambiance and seamless flow throughout the space. Grand Bay is nestled within the prestigious Bay Isles community on Longboat Key, blending exclusivity with convenience.

$2,295,000 • 2,925 square feet heated • 3 bedrooms . 31/2 bathrooms • Travertine flooring, open concept, eat-in kitchen, private primary suite, wraparound terrace • Resort-style community amenities • Includes deeded access to the private Bay Isles Beach Club

• ww.GrandBay346.com

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$4,295,000

3825 SARASOTA GOLF CLUB BLVD

2425 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #3B

$2,100,000

Elevate your coastal lifestyle with this completely updated beach residence at Sea Gate Club. Perfectly positioned to offer direct views of stunning Gulf waves, this nearly 1,500 SF retreat is move-in ready and furnished. www.SeaGate3B.com B U YE R’ S

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$1,950,000

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

$4,495,000

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$2,195,000

Perched on the 8th floor in a tranquil corner location, this sun-drenched Sanctuary residence offers panoramic views of Sarasota Bay and downtown’s skyline through newly installed (2023) impact glass sliders and windows. www.545SanctuaryB806.com

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545 SANCTUARY DRIVE #B806

201 NORTH WASHINGTON DRIVE

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

This 2024-built, impeccably designed 5BR home showcases an array of special upgrades that highlight its sleek interior and private pool courtyard. Multiple Gulf beach access is within walking distance. www.2945PyrulaDrive.com B U YE R’ S

$2,999,999

This direct Gulf-front getaway is on the 5th-floor, immediately ready to make your own. Spectacular direct beach-to-bay views through walls of new impact glass are the perfect introduction to this 3BR lovely getaway. www.535SanctuaryC507.com

4207 MARINA VIEW WAY

2945 PYRULA DRIVE

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535 SANCTUARY DRIVE #C507

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$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 to the planned 4,900+SF residence! www.6603GulfsideRoad.com

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6603 GULFSIDE ROAD

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WE HAVE MORE THAN $200 MILLION SOLD AND PENDING IN 2024

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$1,799,000

Discover this rare opportunity of five expansive, lush acres to design your own home in East Sarasota!

Located amongst oversized luxury estates, this property offers many possibilities! www.3825SarasotaGolfClub.com

2374 ARLINGTON STREET

$699,000

This charmingly updated 3BR home nestled in the heart of Sarasota’s desirable Arlington Park, is a wonderful blend of comfort and prime location. Move-in ready and minutes from parks, downtown, and beaches. www.2374ArlingtonStreet.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. 417325-1

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