Longboat Observer 1.7.21

LONGBOAT

Observer Longboat Key’s weekly newspaper since 1978

Ready for duty.

PAGE 6

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

VOLUME 43, NO. 22

FREE

YOUR TOWN

•

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

COMING IN 2021

Courtesy photo

Heron about town There’s a tall, mysterious fellow who keeps popping up around Longboat Key. He hangs out with the anglers, sits for a spell on the bay and goes for long walks on the beach. You might have seen him — or maybe one of his relatives.

Henry the Heron, as he’s been dubbed by his fans, has been popping up on Longboat Key over the past year. It may or may not be the same bird every time, but watchers have spotted him trying (unsuccessfully) to get a handout from anglers, assimilating into a family on the beach and reigning over mid-island.

If you see a blue heron, chances are it’s our guy.

SPORTS

TRAFFIC

UTILITIES

Changes are on the way in Longboat. PAGES 2-5 Bold predictions for 2021.

PAGE 10

COVID-19 File photos

Courtesy photo

Lauren-Taylor Nock and Easton Nock wait for the bus on the first day of school in August 2020.

A new kind of Amore

70 students in Longboat Although there’s no accounting for students who attend private school or are officially home-schooled, the town recently learned how many Longboat Key children go to public schools in Manatee or Sarasota counties.

The answer: 70 — 32 in Sarasota County Schools (including four enrolled at charter schools) and 38 in Manatee County Schools.

Nat Kaemmerer

Now owned by Tito Vitorino, Amore is set to reopen next week.

A Longboat favorite reinvents itself in Sarasota.

SEE PAGE 19

A+E

Arts scene rolls on.

PAGE 20

2

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

COMING IN 2021

Observer Challenge canceled, but tennis community swings on Although organized competitions are still off the table, tennis players still get their court time.

NAT KAEMMERER STAFF WRITER

T

hings might still be swinging in the Longboat Key tennis community, but sanctioned competition remains off the table for now as concerns over COVID-19 remain.

At the Longboat Key Public Tennis Center, there are still players, but no competitions — including the 21st edition of the Observer Cup Challenge — will happen for the foreseeable future.

The Observer Challenge, usually the second weekend in January, draws more than 100 players and is as much a social event as it is a competition. Spectators cluster around the courts to watch their loved ones or adversaries, and the atmosphere is one of a friendly rivalry. The weekend kicks off with a cocktail party, too.

“To have that many people congregating together on and off the court — just because you’ve got more people on each team, and they’re going to be chatting with each other trying to figure out their strategies and just having so many people — it’s just not going to be the right thing,” tennis center Manager Kay Thayer said.

Signs at the Longboat Key Public Tennis Center remind players to keep their distance on and off the courts.

It’s not the first tournament the tennis center has had to cancel this year. There’s usually a December tournament that draws 300 people to Bay Isles Road.

Every tournament, social hour, going-away or welcome-back party, and league play event has been canceled since March 2020, and Thayer said she isn’t sure when those will resume.

The coronavirus has to be under control, she said, and she doesn’t want to risk an outbreak that stems from the tennis center.

Social events and tournaments will return when it’s safe.

“We’re really not doing anything truly organized,” Thayer said. “We have people that are doing their own little round robins, but they’re still using all our guidelines like keeping 6 feet

apart and wearing their masks.

That’s probably all we’ll do this spring [and] this winter, until everything calms down, and hopefully by next fall, we can resume with our leagues.”

Thayer still sees a bevy of play daily, but not to the degree that there typically is at this time of year. Those in town use tennis as a safe outlet, where they’re able to see friends but stay at a distance.

“This is very important to them to be able to get out and socialize with their friends but in a safe way, not [by] going to dinner or something like that where you’re enclosed,” Thayer said. “Our goal is to be able to keep that going throughout this.”

At the Longboat Key Club’s Tennis Gardens, life looks mostly the same, Director of Tennis Briana Harris Francois said. They’re holding off on bringing in any outside tournaments for now, but there aren’t any that would be happening now anyway. Some charity events that would take place at the Tennis Gardens have been canceled, however.

But for the most part, members still play as they normally would, and they just have to wear their face masks on the sidewalks until they’re ready to play. Harris Francois said that it seems like there are a comparable number of members in town that there were last year, too.

“Everything we’re doing is still the same because it seems to work,” Harris Francois said.

Photos by Nat Kaemmerer

Walter Hatt warms up for doubles at the Public Tennis Center.

BEDROOM S A L E om se.c

u

eho War iture

Furn

The

Florida Look at prices you can afford!

Pick Up Today Or Free “Door Delivery” Tomorrow We Also Offer Full-Service Home Delivery and Set-Up Shop Online. Need Help? Call 941-359-2255

12 MONTHS NO INTEREST

yet sophisticated Queen headboard, storage footboard, rails, dresser and mirror.

Blending

casual & rustic Queen headboard, footboard, rails, dresser and mirror.

Stores Hours: Mon-Sat 9-9, Sun 11-6

999

$

99

599

$

SOUTH SARASOTA 5252 S. Tamiami Trail (at Phillippi Creek) 941-260-9601

99

NORTH SARASOTA 4027 N Washington Blvd (Hwy 301) 941-351-8600

Glamorous

$

Gorgeous

$

and chic Queen headboard, footboard, rails, dresser and mirror.

and modern Queen headboard, footboard, rails, dresser and mirror.

BRADENTON 1100 Cortez Rd W (corner US Hwy 41) 941-749-6069

ELLENTON 5814 18th Street East (across Premium Outlets) 941-479-7900

99999

59999

VENICE 550 S Seaboard Ave (US Hwy 41 Bypass) 941-485-3211

PORT CHARLOTTE 1241 El Jobean Rd (across Sam’s) 941-764-8700

* On Purchases $300 or more with the Furniture Warehouse credit card made between January 7, 2021 and January 6, 2022. Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date if the promotional purchase is not paid in full within 12 months, by January 2022. Minimum Monthly Payments required. Offer applies to only single-receipt qualifying purchases. No interest will be charged on promo purchase and equal monthly payments are required equal to initial promo purchase amount divided equally by the number of months in promo period until promo is paid in full. The equal monthly payment will be rounded to the next highest whole dollar and may be higher than the minimum payment that would be required if the purchase was a non-promotional purchase. Regular account terms apply to non-promotional purchases. For new accounts: Purchase APR is 29.99%; Minimum Interest Charge is $2. Existing cardholders should see their credit card agreement for their applicable terms. Subject to credit approval. Furniture must be delivered within 90 days for all financing offers.

All prices include Hot Buys or Coupon savings. Terms of promotions - Previous purchase excluded, cannot be combined with any other promotion or discount. Promotion offers exclude Hot Buys, floor models or clearance items, sales tax, furniture protection plans, warranty, delivery, or service charge. ** Next Day Delivery or Pick Up during Covid pertains to in-stock merchandise.

347699-1

Simple

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

OUND AN

MARK BERGIN STAFF WRITER

T “The major automobile traffic remedy that I see to balance that pedestrian activity, long-range, are elevated walkways.

I think that’s one of the more significant, if not the most significant, [ways to make sure there is] automobile mediation in that area. And that obviously is a major impact on the barrier islands, Lido Key and Longboat Key, for sure.”

– Commissioner Jack Daly

he Florida Department of Transportation is moving forward with plans to build a multilane roundabout at the intersection of U.S. 41 and Gulfstream Avenue on Sarasota’s bayfront, beginning this spring.

FDOT leaders held a virtual public meeting in December to discuss the project’s plans and bring stakeholders up to date on the schedule of work. Longboat Key leaders have been wary of the project since its inception, and have raised questions about its need and its potential to improve traffic moving back and forth from the barrier islands.

They’ve joined business owners on St. Armands Circle in successfully lobbying for a shorter work schedule and a later start in 2021, hoping to head off some of the traffic headaches that plagued the corridor in 2020.

“Longboat Key has not been a fan of the Gulfstream/U.S. 41 roundabout,” Longboat Commissioner Jack Daly said.

Daly also serves as the town’s representative on the SarasotaManatee Metropolitan Planning Organization.

“We had an expert opinion here that essentially concluded that it might be a wash with the present situation,” Daly said of plans for the U.S. 41 and Gulfstream Avenue roundabout. “Personally, I’d be as surprised if it’s as good as that, but I’m hopeful that that’s not the case.”

The project includes installing a high-intensity activated crosswalk pedestrian crossing signal

system around the roundabout that allows pedestrians to halt traffic on demand, like the existing crosswalk near The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. Longboat leaders say this defeats the purpose of a project meant to improve traffic flow.

Citing recommendations from the Barrier Island Traffic Study, town leaders have advocated for the project to include an overhead pedestrian walkway as part of the Gulfstream roundabout to keep traffic flowing, not subject to the whims of pedestrians.

Daly said he would eventually like to see the city of Sarasota utilize several overhead walkways.

“The major automobile traffic remedy that I see to balance that pedestrian activity, long-range, are elevated walkways,” Daly said. “I think that’s one of the more significant, if not the most

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

With roundabout plans firmed up, Longboat leaders are still wary of road project set to begin soon. struction is finished.

Plans also call for the replacement of the underground drainage structures, utilities, fiber optic, LED streetlights, reconfiguration of stormwater retention ponds, and adding sidewalks and walkways.

Construction is scheduled to start in February, according to FDOT’s website, though work that will disrupt traffic is expected to wait until after seasonal crowds dissipate.

The state estimates it will take until fall 2022 to complete the project.

Since initial plans were announced, FDOT has reduced the expected timeline for the project by 100 days and added contractor incentives for timely completion.

Sarasota City Engineer Alex DavisShaw said city officials continue to stand behind the roundabout plans. She also highlighted the potential improvements for modes of transportation other than driving, stating the city wanted to improve the pedestrian connectivity between downtown and the bayfront.

“One of the important things the city was looking about with the roundabout at Gulfstream is that it could handle the traffic volume as good as or better than the signal, but also it’s better for pedestrians,” DavisShaw said.

“We wanted it to be more multimodal and create a better sense of place for the corridor.”

Longboat leaders supported FDOT when the agency added an additional left turn lane at the intersection, which allowed more mainland-bound traffic to flow north along U.S. 41 from the causeway.

In 2020, that extra lane was closed for weeks as work progressed on a now-open roundabout at Fruitville Road. Frequent delays and backups were the result. A citizen petition to stop the roundabout project attracted more than 1,100 signatures.

CDM Project Engineer Christopher Pecor said the completed roundabout will have a 25 mph speed limit. During construction, the state said the speed limit will drop to 30 mph for traffic coming from the John Ringling Causeway.

CDM Smith Project Engineer Pinky Pakalapati said smaller roundabouts on U.S. 41 at 10th Street, 14th Street and Fruitville Road appear to be operating as expected. Long-term plans, not yet funded, call for more roundabouts south of Gulfstream on U.S. 41.

Pakalapati said traffic at the completed roundabouts have seen “continuous flow” and that the wait times are “significantly less” than a signalized intersection.

“You’re not noticing a bunch of people waiting at the roundabout to get in,” Pakalapati said. “Yes, you are waiting for maybe 10 seconds during the peak hour on the mainland. I’m exaggerating that. I don’t think I ever waited 10 seconds.”

In 2019, the region of Sarasota and Manatee counties ranked as the fourth-most dangerous place in the U.S. for pedestrian deaths.

Smart Growth America found Sarasota, North Port and Bradenton had 194 pedestrian deaths from 2008-2017.

N ND A D R

R O D U N A

U N O D R D

COMING IN 2021

|

significant, [ways to make sure there is] automobile mediation in that area. And that obviously is a major impact on the barrier islands, Lido Key and Longboat Key, for sure.”

Including the elevated pedestrian walkway would require an agreement with The Ritz to use some of its property.

“We have been asked to look into the feasibility of a pedestrian overpass near the First Street intersection,” FDOT Gulfstream Roundabout Project Manager Jeffrey Mednick said. “We are still in the process of looking into alternatives and meeting with The Ritz to see if it will be possible.”

Mednick said the state has looked into future meetings with the contractor because the cost would need to be added to the contract.

Daly said he is still hopeful the elevated walkways are part of the project both on a temporary basis during construction and permanently once roundabout con-

Above: An FDOT map shows how the roundabout will work at U.S. 41 and Gulfstream Avenue. Construction is scheduled to start in February.

Top: Traffic flows at the intersection of U.S. 41 and Gulfstream Avenue.

3

4

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

COMING IN 2021

Island’s underground electricity nearly here Longboat Key plans to have its underground utilities project finished by the end of 2022.

MARK BERGIN STAFF WRITER

T

he first phase of the town of Longboat Key’s $49.1 million underground utilities project is nearly completed.

Town Manager Tom Harmer recently discussed when electricity would flow through underground cables to homes on the south end of the island.

“I know one of the things the mayor and I have talked about is, when is that first house going to be turned on in Country Club Shores?” Town Manager Tom Harmer said.

“Hopefully, the lights won’t flicker on the island when we do that, but then we can celebrate because we’re getting closer and closer to that opportunity.”

Phase one extends from the southern end of the island to the Country Club Shores neighborhood and into the Longboat Key Club.

“I understand there is a date for

[when] the champagne is going to be popped now for Country Club Shores,” Mayor Ken Schneier joked.

Longboat Key Projects Manager James Linkogle said the town is hoping final conversions happen in the next few weeks and will be completed by February.

The start of phase one, switchorder process with Florida Power & Light, began Sept. 11.

“We will let all of those residents know ahead of time once we finalize the exact schedule as to which streets will actually be energized and which group of homes will start,” Linkogle said.

“We’ll make sure we have some sort of celebration for sure.”

Remaining phase one work includes Comcast setting vaults and pulling coaxial and fiber cables along Gulf of Mexico Drive.

The town street lights for phase one are ordered. Installation is scheduled to happen after FPL begins its pole removal process in the new year.

In May 2019, town commissioners decided the pole heights along Gulf of Mexico Drive cannot exceed 35 feet.

The height restrictions cannot be higher than 25 feet in neighborhoods.

The poles are also “smart capa-

Mark Bergin

A Wilco Electrical LLC employee works on the town’s underground utilities project along Gulf of Mexico Drive.

ble” for potential wireless and cellphone carrier enhancement.

Harmer has confirmed the town has had conversations with private companies that could use Longboat Key’s new infrastructure to offer its services, though no firm deals have been made.

Phase two and phase three of the project are happening simultaneously.

Phase two of the project is nearly completed, Linkogle said.

It extends from the northern tip of

the island to Dream Island Road.

“We do have our FDOT permit to now install all of the fiber and streetlight conduits in the Gulf of Mexico right of way in phase two,” Linkogle said.

Linkogle said the town was still receiving materials for phase three, which goes from Country Club Shores to the county line.

Work along Gulf of Mexico Drive for phase three of the project is expected to start this month.

Phase four goes from Dream

Island Road south to the county line.

Linkogle and CDM Smith Consultant Mark Porter said the project has cost the town less than originally budgeted.

“We’re anticipating early this spring to get the final phase four cost estimates from FPL,” Linkogle said. “We anticipate that to be under budget as well.”

The town plans to have the underground utilities project finished by the end of 2022.

LONGBOAT

Observer 5570 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228 PHONE: 941-383-5509 | WEBSITE: www.YourObserver.com

TO EMAIL US

A concierge practice devoted to internal medicine and wellness.

Email press releases, announcements and Letters to the Editor to: Kat Hughes, khughes@yourobserver.com

TO ADVERTISE Display Advertising: To obtain information, call Emma Burke at 941-366-3468, Ext. 344.

Classified Advertising / Service Directory: For information and rates, or to place an ad, call 941-955-4888. Hours 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. To place a classified ad online, visit www.YourObserver.com, or email your ad to classified@yourobserver.com.

TO SUBSCRIBE Free home delivery: The Longboat Observer offers free home delivery to single-family homes on Longboat Key, Bird Key, St. Armands Key, Lido Key and Lido Shores.

The Longboat Observer also delivers to every condominium, resort and commercial building on Longboat Key and Lido Key. To subscribe: Please call Donna Condon at 941-366-3468, Ext. 301, or email dcondon@yourobserver.com.

Canada One year / $250 Six months / $200 Three months / $160

LIKE US

CHRISTOPHER S. LITTLE, M.D. and STEVEN W. FINEMAN, M.D.

www.facebook.com/ObserverGroup

EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE. EXTRAORDINARY CARE.

WATCH US www.youtube.com/user/YourObserverVideo

FOLLOW US 245207

https://twitter.com/observergroup

Call (941) 954-9990 Visit www.sarasotapersonalmedicine.com

347960-1

MAIL DELIVERY SUBSCRIPTION RATES Standard First-Class One year / $95 One year / $200 Six months / $76 Six months / $160 Three months / $61 Three months / $128

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

|

5

COMING IN 2021

Longboat aims for COVID-19 vaccine site Commissioner George Spoll expresses frustration over age requirement that contrasts with CDC guidelines.

MARK BERGIN STAFF WRITER

F

rustration over the state’s system for distributing COVID-19 vaccines reached Longboat Key Town Hall on Tuesday, with one commissioner urging a letter of protest be sent to Gov. Ron DeSantis’ office.

Sarasota County has received 3,500 doses and began distributing to front-line medical workers and residents 65 and older in accordance with state orders.

The first wave of online appointments went quickly. Manatee County received a similar number of doses and has experienced a similarly heavy demand for online appointments.

Census data from the American Community Survey in 2019 show about 46% of Longboat Key’s full-time population is 65 and older.

“Keep in mind that they are really inundated with a lot of people who want this,” said Fire Chief Paul Dezzi, who is helping coordinate the town’s response to the pandemic. “Keep in mind that there are a lot of people down here, more than normal, because of season.”

The age range for the first batch of vaccinations is what drew the ire of Commissioner George Spoll, who is 87. He said the governor lowering the age to 65 in his executive order, in contrast to the Centers for Disease Control guideline

File photo

Commissioner George Spoll says the move to reduce the age requirement for vaccines makes it harder for older residents.

of 75 years of age, is flooding the system and keeping older residents from getting vaccinated.

“I have heard from [a] number of people who are totally frustrated by the injustice, in my view and theirs, that the governor has stepped aside from the CDC guidelines and extended the age down from 75 to 65, greatly diluting the ability of the seniors and those who are most vulnerable,” Spoll said.

Spoll said he would like the town to file a protest with DeSantis’ office.

Commissioner BJ Bishop also mentioned how some people on

the island have expressed their frustrations of using technology to sign up for the vaccination.

“We have a large group of people that are over 75 that are not computer savvy, that are not tech-savvy,” Bishop said.

Town Manager Tom Harmer said the town has asked both Manatee and Sarasota counties to set up a vaccination site in Longboat Key, but the town would also need help from the counties to staff such a site. No such agreement has been made.

“We really need to have offerings here on the island for our residents, so they don’t have to travel,” he said. “It’s hard for many of them to travel, especially now that we’re getting into season.”

Harmer said he anticipates the number of vaccinations available to increase, but he doesn’t know when it could happen. Spoll also mentioned the need for more medical personnel to physically distribute the vaccinations.

In Longboat Key, Dezzi said all of the town’s emergency medical service responders have received vaccines.

The town has taken many precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including the extension of its mandatory mask policy to run through March 31.

Dezzi encouraged people to continue to wash their hands, practice proper social distancing by staying 6 feet apart and continue to wear masks.

SIGNING UP The town of Longboat Key has posted on its website information on signing up for COVID-19 vaccines and a way to fill out the necessary paperwork ahead of time. Visit LongboatKey.org/i-want-to/view/covid-19.

IN SARASOTA COUNTY

■ Availability: No new appointments were available as of Tuesday afternoon.

■ How to do it: Use the website Sarasota.

FloridaHealth.gov, and click on “Schedule Vaccine Appointments.”

■ For information: Call 861-2900.

■ Where: The county health building at 2200 Ringling Blvd. New and additional sites are possible.

IN MANATEE COUNTY

■ Availability: The most recent batch of appointments have been filled.

■ How do it: Use the website MyManatee. org/vaccine.

■ For information: Call 748-0747.

■ Where: Bennett Park, 400 Cypress Creek Blvd. New and additional sites are possible.

APPOINTMENT ALERTS

People wanting to receive alerts when Sarasota County has vaccines available can text “SRQCOVID19” to 888777.

Manatee County offers a similar text service by sending “ManateeReady” to 888777.

COVID-19 ON LONGBOAT As of Jan. 4, there have been 148 cases of COVID-19 connected with Longboat Key addresses. Since Dec. 31, 13 have been reported.

The Tidewell Foundation and Stratum Family of Companies are excited to announce the opening of the Tidewell Foundation building showcasing an outstanding group of health and wellness organizations ready to brighten the lives of the Longboat Key community.

For more information visit: www.tidewellfoundation.org Healthcare Closer

01/07 To Home!

Monday & Thursday—Primary Care Connexis Medical Services ConnexisMedical.org 941.748.8400

Monday & Thursday—Ear/Nose/Throat & Audiology The Silverstein Institute EarSinus.com 941.366.9222 Wednesday—Podiatry Advanced Foot and Ankle Care SarasotaFootDoctors.com 941.921.3000 Friday—Dermatology Luminary Dermatology 941.926.6553 LuminaryDermatology.com

Fitness Quest Physical Therapy Offering in home care services to help you live the life you want, the way you want.

For a private consultation, Call or Email 941.706.2695 nkobritz@youthfulaginghomecare.com youthfulaginghomecare.com

Where Convenience Meets Excellence

(941) 209-3999 Open Weekdays 8am-5pm Now Located at 540 Bay Isles Road Personalized, one-on-one Therapy on Longboat Key!

941.383.6493

TheParadiseCenter.org

MONDAYS 10-11am Stretch & Strengthen 11:15am-12:15pm Hula Dance 1-3pm Thinking Out Loud Discussion Group TUESDAYS 10-11am Qi Gong 1-3pm Mah Jongg WEDNESDAYS 10-11am Tai Chi THURSDAYS 10-11am Zumba & Pilates FRIDAYS 10-11am Yoga GET YOUR 2021 MEMBERSHIP! Watch for our newsletter inserted in the Longboat Observer January 21!

--Exercise classes are held outdoors with social distancing.

--Facemasks are required for indoor activities.

--To register for indoor programs, call 941.383.6493 or email: DonnaSharpBlaney@TheParadiseCenter.org --All activities are $10/person for non-members.

348984-1

Please refer to the schedule below and call each practice directly to schedule your appointment.

6

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

HEATING & COOLING • APPLIANCES PLUMBING • ELECTRICAL

CLEAR THE AIR WITH

BADGER BOB’S

FREE LED System

* REME HALO ®

With purchase and installation of 16-Seer or higher A/C system $1,500 Value!

HVAC Air Purification No matter how often you dust, scrub, and vacuum, your health is at risk from viruses, bacteria, and a wide range of pollutants inside your home.

Let’s protect your family with wholehouse air purification.

As the industry’s first and most trusted LED in-duct, whole-home air purification system, the REME HALO® system reaches every cubic inch of your air- conditioned space.

Its benefits include: • 99.9% efficacy in inactivating the COVID-19 virus** • Uses bi-polar ionization process • Removes pollen, dust, dander, microbials and more • Kills sneeze germs within 3 feet of their source

It’s time to have confidence in your home’s breathing air. *Restrictions apply. Call for details. ** According to a recent study conducted by RGF Environmental Group

New firetruck is officially in use MARK BERGIN STAFF WRITER

Longboat Key’s new firetruck is officially in service.

The Longboat Key Fire Rescue Department held a dedication ceremony Monday to roll the $850,000 truck into the bay of the north-end fire station at 5490 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

“It takes a long time and a lot of work behind the scenes before the truck is actually delivered and can go into service, but it’s also an exciting day for the community as well,” Town Manager Tom Harmer said.

It was about a yearlong process to finally begin using the new, custom-made truck, which replaces the town’s 2003 model.

Although the ladder truck ceremonially went into service Monday, it has been answering calls off and on since late December.

Harmer attended Monday’s ceremony along with town leaders, including Fire Chief Paul Dezzi and Deputy Fire Chief Chris Krajic, who was instrumental in the purchasing of the truck.

Krajic is set to retire, with his last day Jan. 13.

“One of the things Chief Krajic told me was that he wasn’t going to retire until this was project was done, so if you want to go home today, you can,” Dezzi joked.

Mayor Ken Schneier shared a

Mark Bergin

funny story of a conversation he had with his son about the town’s new truck. Schneier’s son is a firefighter in Colorado.

“I told him months and months ago that we had ordered a new truck, and he was very excited,” Schneier said. “And he said, ‘I assume once it comes in, you’ll have a ceremony where you push it into the bay.’

“So I didn’t want to feel like an idiot, so I said, ‘Well, of course we’re going to have a ceremony,’ but I was thinking, ‘New truck, and I know they get wet, but pushing it into the bay seems like a silly thing, saltwater and all that.’

“Fortunately, when I mentioned it to Tom [Harmer], with all his fire experience, he was able to tell me that it was being pushed into this bay, and not into that [Sarasota] Bay.”

Longboat Key Fire Chief Paul Dezzi spoke during Monday afternoon’s firetruck dedication ceremony.

The town paid $850,00 for the new vehicle.

First Physicians Group Welcomes

Sooyun Chun, MD We are pleased to welcome the latest Gastroenterology specialist to the First Physicians Group (FPG) network. Board-certified and fellowship-trained, Dr. Chun brings substantial expertise in general gastroenterology performing a wide range of diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic procedures. She is focused on preventative care, early colorectal cancer screening and women’s GI health.

Specialty & Board Certification: Gastroenterology Medical School: Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY Residency: Brown University, Providence, RI Fellowship: University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH

941.777-2004

To schedule an appointment, call (941) 262-0400

BadgerBobs.com

348911-1

Serving Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte Counties for 30+ Years License #: CFC1427129, CAC1815977, EC13009294

First Physicians Group Gastroenterology 1852 Hillview St., Ste. 301, Sarasota, FL 34239 www.firstphysiciansgroup.com

348242-1

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

7

ADVERTISEMENT

The Rise of Niche Active Adult Living.

The unique needs of the Baby Boomer generation reveal a new trend in real estate.

The Baby Boomer Generation is reaching retirement age in record numbers.

An estimated 10,700 people turn 65 every day according to population and retirement research conducted in 2019 by the U.S. Government Accountability Office.

Unlike preceding generations, Baby Boomers are rejecting the idea of ‘traditional’ or ‘old’ senior housing options and, instead, prioritize the pursuit of hobbies, interests, and a healthy, active life.

According to the developers of The Floridian Club, health, fitness, and a vibrant social life are a resounding priority amongst residents - and they are listening.

The community's 10,000 square foot amenity center is infused with health-minded amenities, like an expansive 24-hour gym, yoga and fitness studio, plus wellness programs for residents, and on-site staff available to facilitate resident’s individual fitness goals and smart-living alternatives.

A full-time, on-site event planner curates event calendars This shift in expectation has exposed a neglected niche in monthly, complete with fun, diverse events, and activities the real estate market. There is a sizable demand for created specifically for the evolving preferences of alternative living options with more flexibility and freedom, residents. In addition to planned events, the property’s but very few communities currently catering to the unique fully loaded amenity center features social spaces desires of this generation. promoting spontaneity and a true sense of connection.

But, there is one local developer who has taken notice.

The Floridian Club of Sarasota is a resort community in south Sarasota County that has reimagined the active adult community model.

Designed “by Baby Boomers, for Baby Boomers,” their renewable leases combine a conventional rental concept with the perks of homeownership, such as customization, permanence, and a neighborhood-feel.

For more information on The Floridian Club of Sarasota, visit FloridianLife.com.

Join us at one of our upcoming Socially Distant Open Houses SUN. JAN 10TH | SAT. JAN 23RD | SUN. JAN 31ST

R

A

IM

FO

E

$1495 LIMITED

T

The Floridian Club

A Unique Lease Concept for a Unique Generation.

Located just 6 miles to pristine gulf coast beaches, The Floridian Club of Sarasota is a modern single-level Villa home community featuring an unparalleled variety of amenities to enhance the ultimate coastal, Floridian lifestyle.

19600 Floridian Club Dr, Venice, FL 34292

FloridianLife.com/offers or call us at 941.227.4424

348965-1

ST

TING

AT

AR

8

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

LONGBOAT

OPINION / OUR VIEW

What really happened?

For the 74 million who voted for Trump, they want one thing for sure: to know the truth.

A

s of this writing, the counting of presidential votes from the Electoral College was on the verge of occurring. The results will be anticlimactic. Everyone already knows the outcome — in spite of all the protests from Republican senators and House members: Trump loses.

That’s the way it’s going to go, even though most of the 74 million Donald Trump voters have been hoping for a miraculous “trump” card.

That outcome actually became clearer by the day over the past two months even in the face of ample evidence of cheating, unlawful behavior and crooked vote counting. (Read “If Americans can no longer trust our elections, we’re in big trouble,”

by Willis Krumholz of the Federalist. The accounts of a rigged election aren’t make believe; they’re stunning and sickening.)

It was destined to be so because two of the key forces necessary to expose and reverse what happened Nov. 3 just weren’t there, namely: n The newspaper media, in particular the one-time great metropolitan dailies, showed once and for all they are no longer what they used to be — dogged, relentless muckrakers for justice, no matter on what side the wrongdoing occurred. n The elected Republican legislators in Pennsylvania, Michigan, Georgia and Arizona. Even though they controlled their state legislatures and had the power to investigate, intervene, expose and determine what really happened — even if it meant assuring voters there were no irregularities or illegalities, they have shown the true nature of politicians. As a class, they are politicians — blow-withthe-wind, milquetoast pragmatists who talk tough at their own election times, but when it comes to hard, controversial decisions, they are afraid to go outside the bounds of establishmentism. They will not say what they really think (see box). It’s too risky for their careers. It’s better to swim with the crowd in the swamp.

You can certainly see that in Florida’s own Republican congressional delegation, which we will highlight below.

First: the newspapers.

In the heyday of newspapers — post-Watergate and preFacebook, Google and Big Tech — America’s metropolitan daily newspapers would have invaded the election offices of the swing states to shine the light on exactly what happened. They would have found the answers to 1,000 unanswered questions.

In those days, the KnightRidder newspapers of the Miami Herald, Philadelphia Inquirer and Detroit Free-Press and the then-St. Petersburg Times became legendary for exposing government corruption. Reporters in those days lived to expose crooked politicians and bureaucrats.

What’s more, they didn’t take sides politically. One example: Tom Fiedler, the lead political

reporter for the Miami Herald, the reporter who exposed Gary Hart’s extramarital affair with Donna Rice that ended Hart’s 1988 presidential candidacy, was so adamant about not showing favoritism that he did not vote in elections.

If these reporters and their editors were still working, they would find the answers and expose: n Who ordered in Detroit the counting of noneligible ballots and the double counting of ballots? And why? Who ordered police to usher GOP poll challengers out of the auditorium?

And why? Who permitted the counting of ballots when the names on the ballots did not show up as registered in the election database? n What are the details to postal supervisors in Pennsylvania ordering the back-dating of ballots, so they could be counted?

Who authorized that? n How do you explain Joe Biden receiving 450,000 votes in swing states on ballots that had only a mark for Biden but no marks for other candidates?

The list of unanswered, suspicious and specious irregularities and anomalies goes on and on.

But sadly, the metro dailies that once served as teeth-bearing watchdogs have withered into political and ideological lapdogs.

What’s more, the national media landscape has devolved into two camps — liberal and conservative agendas, with straight-news neutrality almost nowhere to be found.

State legislators are just as complicit in leaving Americans wondering what really happened in the election.

In Michigan, Pennsylvania, Georgia and Arizona — the swing states in the center of unanswered questions — Republicans controlled their legislatures.

While lawmakers held hearings and heard first-hand testimony of election irregularities, there have been no repercussions — no one being censured or fired, as if nothing illegal or unethical occurred.

In each state, small bands of lawmakers called for the elections results to be rejected — mostly unconstitutional requests. But the governors and leading members of the Senate and House in those states have said they were bound by their constitutions to accept the results as “fair” elections.

And yet, the Rasmussen polling firm recently reported 47% of voters believe fraud determined the outcome; 75% of Republicans believe it; 33% of Independents; 16% of Democrats.

As Congress headed toward certifying the election results Wednesday, at least 12 senators said they planned to vote to reject the electors from the disputed states unless and until an electoral commission is appointed to conduct a 10-day audit of the returns in the disputed states.

“Once completed, individual states would evaluate the commission’s findings and could

REP. BUCHANAN, SEN. SCOTT ON WHETHER THEY WOULD OBJECT We asked Reps. Vern Buchanan and Greg Steube and Sen. Rick Scott whether they would be among their House and Senate colleagues Wednesday challenging or objecting to the Electoral College election results, and if not, why? Steube did not respond. Neither Buchanan nor Scott answered the questions directly. Instead they sent the following dodge balls.

— Ed. SEN. RICK SCOTT Thank you for contacting me regarding the 2020 election.

I appreciate the opportunity to respond.

I believe that every legal vote must be counted fairly and that President Donald Trump has the right to fight for transparency. The media does not pick the president; voters do.

This election has shown us that we need major reforms to our electoral system and that is why I proposed the Verifiable, Orderly, & Timely Election Results (VOTER) Act (S. 4707).

The VOTER Act establishes uniform standards for vote-bymail systems across the country and ensures the timely and efficient counting of ballots, with important protections to prevent fraud. The bill creates a deadline for state election officials to tally and report the election results to avoid prolonged uncertainty in the outcome of a federal election.

Voting is fundamental to our

convene a special legislative session to certify a change in their vote, if needed,” said a letter signed Jan. 2 by 11 U.S. senators — none of them from Florida.

Meantime, at least 100 U.S. House members said they would cast objections to the outcome as well.

And what of Florida’s Senate and House delegations — especially the Republicans?

You would think, given the intensity and public interest in this historic issue, all members of Congress would let their constituents know where they stand on the issue. When we checked the websites of the 16 Florida Republicans in the House and Sens. Rick Scott and Marco Rubio, only one member — Rep. Bill Posey of Rockledge — had posted any information on his official website, stating his position on the presidential elections.

Posey has called for the Department of Justice to investigate voter fraud; he has written seven letters to the department and postal inspector and filed an amicus brief in the Texas lawsuit challenging the results.

And as of this writing, here are the eight Florida Republican congressional members who have said they planned to object to the Electoral College election results on the House floor:

democracy, and it is a sacred right that we must protect and cherish. I always say we need 100% participation and 0% fraud in our elections. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Senate to get this legislation passed and ensure smooth and secure elections.

Again, thank you for contacting me regarding your concerns. I am proud to represent all Floridians, and I am working diligently to help get the necessary resources to Floridians to continue to combat this public health crisis.

REP. VERN BUCHANAN For anyone who thinks Congress lacks the moral or constitutional authority to question the Electoral College certification, I refer you to Nancy Pelosi’s statement in 2005 when she called such an action “democracy at work.”

Pelosi supported fellow Democrats who were challenging George W. Bush’s certification, saying, “The representatives of the American people in this house are standing up for three fundamental American beliefs: the right to vote is sacred; that a representative has a duty to represent his or her constituents; and that the rule of law is the hallmark of our nation.”

I intend to follow Wednesday’s debate in Congress with Nancy’s Pelosi’s words in mind.

n Matt Gaetz, District 1, Fort Walton Beach n Kat Cammack, District 3, Gainesville n John Rutherford, District 4, Jacksonville n Michael Waltz, District 6, Daytona Beach/Palm Coast n Bill Posey, District 8, Rockledge/Space Coast n Scott Franklin, District 15, Lakeland n Brian Mast, District 18, Port St. Lucie/Stuart n Byron Donalds, District 19, Naples For Florida’s Trump supporters, this list tells them a lot. When these voters wake up Thursday, they’ll at least know there are eight Florida congressional members willing to take a stand.

But that’s of little solace.

Americans still don’t and won’t know the truth. How can anyone think American politics at the national level is going to get better from here?

As Newt Gingrich put it: “This is a crisis in the American system, comparable to Washington on Christmas Eve or comparable to Lincoln at Gettysburg. This is a genuine, deep crisis of our survival.”

What are you willing to do about it?

— Matt Walsh, Editor

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

Friedrich Hayek

“Road to Serfdom,” 1944

Publisher / Emily Walsh EWalsh@YourObserver.com Executive Editor / Kat Hughes KHughes@YourObserver.com Managing Editor / Eric Garwood EGarwood@YourObserver.com Staff Writers / Mark Bergin, MBergin@ YourObserver.com; Nat Kaemmerer, NKaemmerer@YourObserver.com Copy Editor / Kaelyn Adix KAdix@YourObserver.com Editorial Designers / Melissa Leduc, MLeduc@YourObserver.com; Carol Parker, CParker@YourObserver.com Black Tie Editor / Harry Sayer HSayer@YourObserver.com Director of Advertising / Jill Raleigh JRaleigh@YourObserver.com Sales Manager / Penny DiGregorio PDiGregorio@YourObserver.com Digital Sales and Business Development Manager / Kathleen O’Hara, KOHara@YourObserver.com Senior Advertising Executive / Laura Ritter, LRitter@YourObserver.com Advertising Executives / Richeal Bair, RBair@YourObserver.com; Chrissy Guevera, CGuevara@YourObserver.com; Beth Jacobson, BJacobson@YourObserver. com; Jennifer Kane, JKane@YourObserver. com; Bob Lewis, BLewis@YourObserver. com; Honesty Mantkowski, HMantkowski@ YourObserver.com; Toni Perren, TPerren@ YourObserver.com Sales Operations Manager / Susan Leedom, SLeedom@YourObserver.com Sales Coordinator/Account Manager Emma Burke, EBurke@YourObserver.com; Lori Downey, LDowney@YourObserver.com Classified Advertising Sales Executives/ Kelly Florez, KFlorez@YourObserver.com Tributes Coordinator/ Kristen Boothroyd, Tributes@YourObserver.com Director of Marketing / Robin Lankton, RLankton@YourObserver.com Director of Creative Services / Caleb Stanton, CStanton@YourObserver.com Creative Services Administrator / Marjorie Holloway, MHolloway@ YourObserver.com Advertising Graphic Designers / Luis Trujillo, Allison Wampole

Digital Developer / Jason Camillo, JCamillo@YourObserver.com

Director of Information Technology / Adam Quinlin, AQuinlin@YourObserver.com Chief Financial Officer / Laura Keisacker LKeisacker@YourObserver.com Controller / Rafael Labrin, RLabrin@YourObserver.com Office and Accounting Coordinator / Donna Condon, DCondon@YourObserver. com

Observer Media Group Inc.

is locally owned.

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

Editor and CEO / Matt Walsh Vice President / Lisa Walsh Chairman Emeritus / David Beliles

5570 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key, FL 34228 941-366-3468

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

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

Let Longboat be a leader on the bay As a longtime resident of Longboat Key, a Key business owner for 35 years and an avid angler, I wanted to make Longboat Key taxpayers aware of an issue that I consider critical to present and future generations.

In the coming year, you’ll hear news of the tenuous health of Sarasota Bay. There have been huge losses of critical seagrass meadows since the last harmful algae bloom (red tide) of 2018.

There is real concern among scientists that the bay might be threatened with a collapse of the seagrass ecosystem that is responsible for the water clarity and diversity that brought us here. The lion’s share of the issues impacting the health of the bay are related to excess nitrogen that reaches the bay through stormwater run-off and untreated and partially treated sewage from failed infrastructure.

As a community we have the opportunity to proactively address Longboat Key’s 2020 sewage spill by not only following the final FDEP consent order guidelines but also setting an example for other communities in the Sarasota Bay watershed.

Longboat Key’s sewage spill received more than its fair share of negative press. Although the spill is of major concern, it is only part of a much larger baywide problem.

As an advocate for clean water and a tax-paying citizen of Longboat Key, I hope to encourage citizens to take this opportunity to tell the commission to take a proactive approach and make a bold statement to all

stakeholders that share Sarasota Bay. We have the chance to be the leader in addressing these issues that are so critical to the environment and the economics that fuel our economy.

Let’s encourage our commissioners to form a committee of local leaders, scientists and environmental stewards to help guide implementing this decision.

RUSTY CHINNIS LONGBOAT KEY

A fair depiction; stay the course I just finished reading your editorial, “Stay the course, governor.”

Even though I am a registered Democrat — registered to vote here in Florida, rather than at our home in New York, so that our vote would have greater impact — I have to admit that I find the editorial to be one of the fairest and most accurate depictions available for the way Gov. Ron DeSantis is running the state during this coronavirusderangement year of 2020.

Especially when you compared DeSantis to the way Gov. Andrew Cuomo is running New York into the ground at the same time.

My wife and I will soon have spent eight months of 2020 at our Siesta Key condo, enjoying so many of the freedoms we would have been systematically deprived of if we had spent only our usual four months here each year.

And even beyond everything your opinion piece rightly gives DeSantis credit for, he has

rightly brought attention to the politically misused rapid PCR COVID-19 test, requiring the cycle count to be reported with every test result.

I have no doubt that at least 50%, and probably as high as 75% or 80%, of the nation’s positive cases would have been more correctly labeled as negatives if this test was being properly utilized at only 20 or 25 replication cycles rather than 40 or 45. But that would destroy all the media-created hysteria.

Over the years, I have found more and more in your editorials to be far more fair and accurate than what the overwhelming majority of cable news networks force on us every day.

So please, “Stay the course.”

JIM SANTAGATA SARASOTA AND BROOKLYN, N.Y.

Unbridled capitalism a worry Matt Walsh in his recent editorial tries to make the case that America is moving dangerously against the individual and pushing toward what he calls “ collectivism.” He uses Ayn Rand’s philosophy to help make his points. It’s understandable that Rand being of Russian background would reject communist collectivism.

Walsh quotes “America’s abundance was not created by public sacrifices to the common good but by the productive genius of free men who pursued their own personal interests and the making of their own fortunes.”

However, Walsh, an avowed

|

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

9

capitalist, forgets how much of this country was built by robber barons. The term was developed in the 19th century to describe successful industrialists whose business practices were often ruthless and unethical.

Examples of these industrialists were Andrew Carnegie, Cornelius Vanderbilt, John D. Rockefeller and John Jacob Astor.

Another more recent example is the Koch brothers. They are multibillionaires. In 2014, Koch Industries was the secondlargest privately held company in America. In nearly five decades, they paid out record civil and criminal environmental penalties for being among the top 30 polluters. The Koch brothers are libertarians using their wealth to fight for individual rights and government laissez faire.

The point here is that collectivism is often the outcome of the abuses from having little or no rules or regulations. Protecting workers, addressing inequality and our environment are accomplished by having rules derived for the common good.

As Reinhold Niebuhr, the American Protestant theologian, wrote, “Man’s capacity for justice makes democracy possible, but man’s inclination to injustice makes democracy necessary.”

Democracy is a system by which the majority makes the rules. We are not moving toward communist collectivism, but government needs to be mindful of the excesses of unbridled capitalism.

ELAINE GALLINARO SARASOTA

EXPANSIVE FLOW-THROUGH FLOORPLANS

ROOFTOP ZERO-HORIZON POOL

MOVE-IN READY L I M I T E D

R E S I D E N C E S

R E M A I N

Panoramic City and Sarasota Bay Views | Rooftop Deck with Zero-Horizon Pool, Sun Deck and Fire Pit Expansive 3,550–3,900+ sq. ft. Residences | Priced from $2 Million | New Model Open for Tours

Call to Schedule Your Tour | 540 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236

ALL DIMENSIONS, FEATURES AND SPECIFICATIONS ARE APPROXIMATE AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES,TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. NO FEDERAL AGENCY HAS JUDGED THE MERITS OR VALUE, IF ANY, OF THIS PROPERTY. ALL PRICES AND FEATURES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL DRAWINGS ARE CONCEPTUAL RENDERINGS AND DEVELOPER EXPRESSLY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MAKE MODIFICATIONS.

348024-1

BLVDSarasota.com | 941.316.1499

10

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

JANUARY

COMING IN 2021

THURS. 7TH & 21ST

BOLD PREDICTIONS A

FEBRUARY THURS. 11TH

MARK BERGIN | STAFF WRITER

YOU ARE INVITED

new year brings new predictions for what lies ahead. The

Please join Christopher Sforzo, M.D., Christopher Dillingham, M.D.,

Observer caught up with several people throughout Longboat

Charles Stewart, M.D. and Philip Meinhardt, M.D. for an open forum discussion on the latest technologies available in Regenerative CHRISTOPHER SFORZO, M.D.

Key on what they predict will happen in the new year.

Medicine including PRP and Stem Cell Therapies.

WHEN & WHERE

Thursday, January 7, 2020, Thursday, January 21, 2020 and Thursday, February 11, 2020 Registration begins at 4:15 p.m. Seminar is 4:30pm - 5:30pm CHRISTOPHER DILLINGHAM, M.D.

at the office of Sforzo I Dillingham I Stewart Orthopedics 5831 Bee Ridge Rd., Suite 300, Sarasota, Florida 34233

WHAT

Board-Certified, Fellowship Trained Doctors Sforzo, Dillingham, Stewart, and Meinhardt look forward to answering your questions and CHARLES STEWART, M.D.

sharing their knowledge and clinical experiences to

GAIL LOEFGREN

Schneier said he would like to see the town accomplish four things in 2021: “No. 1 is we emerge from the pandemic tunnel by the second quarter,” Schneier said. “Two is we complete more than half of our undergrounding project. Three is construction begins on the St. Regis project, and four is we make substantial headway our beach renourishment and stabilization.”

“After the crazy year we have all lived through, I think it would be fool-hardy for me to make any predictions for 2021. … Social injustice, COVID-19, hurricanes, economic woes and a national election caused all predictions for 2020 to go out the window. I will only predict that Longboat Key will remain one of the safest areas in Florida and that 2021 will not be any worse than 2020, but predicting anything beyond that is totally over my pay grade.”

Longboat Key Mayor

help you make the best treatment choices.

RSVP Please RSVP by emailing Theresa at tgetzen@sforzodillingham.com or calling 941.378.5100.

Please note, forums do fill quickly.

348985-1

PHILIP MEINHARDT, M.D.

KEN SCHNEIER

Chamber of Commerce President

We don’t treat John’s cancer, we treat John.

At GenesisCare, we treat individuals, not just the disease, which is why we offer personalized care that’s designed around you. With the team at 21st Century Oncology now part of GenesisCare, you will receive world-class cancer care close to home.

346642-1

348252-1

To learn more, visit us online at genesiscare.com/USA.

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

advertisment advertisement

New Year,New You? INTENTIONAL PLANNING FOR YOUR DESIRED FUTURE.

RUSTY CHINNIS

PETE CUMMING

Suncoast Waterkeeper board member

Former Longboat Key Police Chief

Chinnis said he would like to see the town pursue an in-kind penalty project after untreated sewage spilled between June 17-30 about 350 feet from the Sarasota Bay shoreline. An in-kind project is subject to approval from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

“I am encouraging them to use this opportunity to really make a bold statement to the communities around here. We have a problem here. We recognize that problem,” Chinnis said. “Now that we do, we're going to … just make a bold step that's like a shining example to all the other communities about water quality, about the need to address these issues.”

Chinnis said possible in-kind projects he’d like to see the town pursue would be to update the Quick Point access area or address seagrass scarring.

“I'm hoping all the changes in the town are going to be productive, and the [COVID-19] vaccine is going to make a big impact on other things, and the health and prosperity and so forth,” Cumming said.

"I see 2021 as being the turning of this particular pandemic that we've been involved in. In the last year, it's been absolutely crippling for everybody, as everybody knows. I think that 2021 is going to be a positive year for the vaccine.

“I'm excited for the new police chief and her impact on the town, too. I'm sure she's going to make some positive changes out there.

And I did the best I could doing what I could do, but I think it was time for a change, and I think she is going to do a great job."

By Freya Robbins, CDFA™ Would you agree that most people are happy to be “out with the old and in with the new” when it comes to 2020?

It has been a year hasn’t it?

with the intention I created in that workshop. This produced a profound effect on me as I began the journey of intentional planning.

What do you aspire to accomplish?

Short term is 6 months to two and a half years. Long term is two and a half years up to 10 years. I encourage you to make your lists, today—right now. It could be to attain a certain income level, or to create a new meal plan and exercise routine for better health, to discuss estate planning or financial planning issues with your spouse or family or maybe Let me share a story with to plan a long overdue you. When I was in my vacation. Perhaps you late 20’s I attended a have been blessed weekend workshop If you are looking with money and that was intended to want to use your forward to creating help with some life time and talents planning. During something spectacular to help others but that weekend, I in your life for this next don’t know where set some specific to start. goals, to own my year it will require This is your life. Only own home, to have some planning. you have the ability to enough money to create or make changes travel, to be promoted and there are no “do as an Account Executive overs”. When you are in your with AT&T and to be happily 80’s what accomplishments would married with children. you be proud to have attained? It is Quite coincidentally, a few years never too late to plan, even if you are later I came across the list I had already 80. Call me if you would like made during that workshop. To some help or direction. I would love my surprise, I had accomplished to work with you on a plan you want everything on the list ... except one to create or help you figure out what thing. I wasn’t happily married with your passion is. children. Hah, I wasn’t even married!

Prior to that, evidently I was focused on my career. Clearly, I had some Freya is a Life Coach, a Florida Supreme unfinished business to tend to.

Court Certified Family Mediator, a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, The important point about this and is certified as a Chartered Special story is what I had accomplished.

Needs Consultant.

My accomplishments we correlated If you are looking forward to creating something spectacular in your life for this next year it will require some planning. Whether it is a new career you aspire to, a new project you are working on, a new intimate relationship you hope to create or a better relationship with someone already in your life, it will take thoughtful preparation.

JACK DALY

Longboat Key District 4 Commissioner “In terms of, and I wouldn’t call it bold, I really feel strongly that since I've been on the commission, and I’m not taking credit for anything, but that we’ve had some pretty significant achievements,” Daly said. “But I also feel strongly that we the commission had a significant failure, and that’s when we dropped the ball with respect to the Town Center.

"I'm focusing when I say that on Ringling [College] because I think they were prospectively a very fine partner, and I’m hopeful that that will be the case in the future. Or certainly, my hope and prediction is that we really need to continue and to make the Town Center a reality here.

“And if there's one failure of this commission that I point to, I think it’s … the train was in the station. We derailed the train, and we've got to get back on the track and going forward.

“As I see it, the only major — deficiencies is not the right word — but the only major final part … to truly enhance the lifestyles of citizens on the Key remains to be, in my view, a lack of a better reference here an [arts, culture and entertainment] building.

"I know you're looking for something new or something bold. I'm not suggesting that’s it, but I am suggesting that it is a significant long-term facility that will enhance the lifestyle and make Longboat continue to be Longboat.

That’s a missing link.”

FIND US IN YOUR

NEIGHBORHOOD

http://www.guidedogs.org/puppycam/

FIND US IN YOUR

NEIGHBORHOOD

Looking for a copy of the

LV9705

LV9705

OPEN BY APPOINTMENT 7 DAYS - 941-366-2404 2542 17th St., Sarasota, FL 34234 • www.catdepot.org

CALL TO SCHEDULE A FREE PHONE CONSULTATION

941.366.0202 347449-1

We have more than 1,500 rack locations. To find one near you visit YourObserver.com/RackLocations

Family & Divorce Mediation | Elder Care Mediation Marriage Mediation | Pre & Post Nuptial Agreements

ADOPT DON’T SHOP

http://www.guidedogs.org/puppycam/

www.ZollingerMediation.com 348959-1

Freya Robbins, CDFA™

SUPREME COURT CERTIFIED MEDIATOR

11

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

THE

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

Courtyard

AT M I C H A E L’ S O N E A ST

Rendering courtesy of city of Sarasota

At a Nov. 18 meeting, Dan Lear of DSDG Architects presented a concept image depicting the proposed design of a parklet on St. Armands Circle. Amenities include a stage, rocking chairs and lighting for daytime and nighttime.

St. Armands group advances parklet plan Safe & socially-distant outdoor seating NOW Available Monday - Saturday!

The St. Armands Business Improvement District also wants to work with city staff on plans to allow housing and hotels in the Circle.

An open-air envirornment with the same Legendary Hospitality & handcrafted cuisine you have come to expect from Michael’s On East.

DAVID CONWAY DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR

A

341668-1

RESERVE ONLINE: WWW.BESTFOOD.COM

A

re visitors to St. Armands Circle interested in playing a game of chess?

That’s just one of the questions the St. Armands Business Improvement District hopes to answer by building a parklet in the median along South Boulevard of

the Presidents.

The BID unanimously voted to approve a concept design for a small amenity zone set to include a small performance area, rocking chairs, an oversized chessboard and overhead lighting. The final product is still subject to change, but the BID board of directors expressed excitement about the parklet as an opportunity to bring energy to the Circle and to encourage outdoor activity.

“I want people to come to St. Armands Circle and go, ‘Oh, my God, this place is so cool,’” board member Geoffrey Michel said.

The BID worked with Dan Lear of DSDG Architects on the design.

MEAL

Makes a

Difference.

donate & shop Building Materials | Furniture | Appliances Art | Decorative Accessories | Lamps

You Can Help By Donating.

• Serving 250,000+ meals yearly • 1,000 local volunteers

3 Stores n 1 Location Tuesday - Saturday n 10:00am - 5:00pm 2095 17th Street n Sarasota

• 800 meals delivered 7 days a week • Delivery assistance only takes 2-3 hours

Have large items to donate?

Call to schedule your free pick up.

Give your helping hand to those who need it.

421 North Lime Avenue | Sarasota, FL 34237 941.366.6693 | MealsOnWheelsOfSarasota.org

(941) 444-5783 341784-1

12

n

www.habitatsrq.org

Our vision is everyone deserves a decent place to live.

347869-1

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

13

stage and freeing up funds for a second parklet on North Boulevard of the Presidents. The board initially conceived of the project as a trial program to explore the addition of a variety of amenities to St. Armands.

ZONING UPDATES

The BID continues to pursue larger changes to the zoning on St. Armands Circle, voting unanimously to work with Lear and city staff on an effort to revise the building rules within the district.

The board agreed to retain Lear as a consultant for up to $35,000 as the BID pursues amendments to the code for St. Armands. In a presentation to the BID, Lear identified three goals from the zoning amendment process: n Promote residential construction on the Circle; n Allow hotels in the district; and n Include guidelines for future development.

Once the process of exploring potential zoning changes begins in earnest, Kauffman said it was crucial to reach out to other stakeholders including residents and merchants.

“I know we all have some idea of what we want to achieve, but I don’t know that we have exact numbers of exactly how high, exactly how many units,” Kauffman said. “Until we really engage the community, we’re not going to have a sense of what other options and challenges are going to be there.”

As it attempts to identify the optimal process for pursuing revisions, board members spoke highly about the potential to transform St. Armands.

“This is the only way we’re going to take the Circle to the next level,” Meshad said.

DESIGNS CUSTOM CABINETRY

Orthopedic Care Designed to Restore Your Lifestyle

348986-1

Lear estimated the cost of the project as designed at $19,813.

Although the BID voted to move forward with the project, board members and other stakeholders did have some questions. Multiple board members questioned whether the outdoor equipment, such as the chess pieces, might be stolen from the public space.

Lear said the visibility of the site should prevent issues during the day, and chess pieces are relatively inexpensive to replace.

Board member Gavin Meshad questioned whether the BID could make better use of the space dedicated to the chessboard, suggesting additional seating could be more practical. Diana Corrigan, the executive director of the St. Armands Circle Association, wanted to make sure that the project was being designed to complement shopping and dining activity in the commercial district and stated she didn’t want the Circle to become “a place of amusement.”

Michel and board member Mindy Kauffman said they liked the chessboard, with Michel stating he got positive feedback on the feature from people who saw the concept image. BID Operations Manager Brandy Wiesner said she saw the game as a bonus feature, not an attraction.

“I don’t think someone’s going to say, ‘I’m just going to go out there to play chess and leave,’” Wiesner said. “That would be surprising to me.”

Before it can build the parklet, the BID will work with the city on a plan for long-term management of the public space.

The group also remained undecided on some aspects of the project, discussing the possibility of removing the performance

|

FIRST STEP OF SARASOTA IS NOW HIRING FOR SEVERAL POSITIONS MANY JOBS OPEN FOR THOSE WITH HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA OR GED. Flexible hours, shift work, weekend shifts, full time, part time or per diem (work as needed). Full time benefits ADDITIONAL STAFF OPENINGS ARE: Therapists, Counselors, Social Workers, Peer Specialists, Mental Health Counselors (BA level), Peer Support, Family Partners (BA level), LPN’s, RN’s and Behavioral Health Techs

Kitchens Bathrooms Office Units Murphy Beds Library Wall Units Storage Solutions

For more information visit fsos.org/get-involved/careers TO APPLY, CALL OR EMAIL 941 366-5333 extension 1222 or 1230

jobs@fsos.org

Visit our showroom:

347555-1

DUTCHHAUSFURNITURE.COM

First Step of Sarasota is dedicated to creating wellness and inspiring the first step toward a better tomorrow for those with mental health and addiction disorders.

348811-1

3737 Bahia Vista St. Sarasota, FL 34232

14

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

778.5622

CFC1426956 • CPC 1458908 • CAC1818472

Harry's is thrilled for a New Year, but rest assured we will be continuing to follow the CDC Guidelines, Social Distance, Wear Masks, we have a large outdoor patio and will continue to offer Togo and Curbside Service.

In this together - The Harry's Crew 347435-1

Harry's Restaurant

Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Happy Hour, Dinner

- Thursday Prime Rib Dinner $31.99 - Wine Wednesday 30% Off Bottles - We have Stone Crab

Harry's Gourmet Deli

11 AM-7PM Take-out/Curbside Pickup

- 20% off Wine Wednesday and Thursday - Party Specialties Available

Harry's Corner Store

www.HarrysKitchen.com

7 AM to 10 PM

5 6 0 0

G U L F

O F

M E X I C O

A Longboat Key Landmark

LIC.#CFC1426956 ~ CPC1458908 ~ #CAC1818472 www.lapenseeplumbing.com 401 MANATEE AVENUE , HOLMES BEACH

347461-1

New Year …

New Faucet.

D R I V E • 9 4 1 - 3 8 3 - 0 7 7 7

Nat Kaemmerer

Lynn Larson, Svetlana Kaminsky and Bob Gault at a Kiwanis meeting

Kiwanis launch T fund challenge

NAT KAEMMERER STAFF WRITER

The club will match donations made in its name, up to $10,000, for the Children’s Guardian Fund.

he Kiwanis Club of Longboat Key hopes to turn a $10,000 donation to Children’s Guardian Fund into $20,000 with a challenge in which they’ll match any donation made in their name.

From now until the time $10,000 in donations is reached, any donations that mention Longboat’s Kiwanis Club will be matched, and all funds will go toward tutoring for the foster children in Children’s Guardian Fund’s care.

“It’s a great combination of helping kids in need with the

HOPE / hōpe / noun the light that illuminates the path ahead OUR COLLEAGUES IN CARE NAME

Lesley Bowers

R E L AT I O N S H I P QUOTE

Pet Therapy Volunteer

After we experienced the kindness

of hospice care, I wanted to help patients and bring awareness to Tidewell.

Lesley spreads a message of hope through compassionate care.

Whether she’s making a pet therapy visit or a tuck-in call, she shows our patients love and solidarity in their final stage of life.

By starting with relationships, the Tidewell Foundation is redefining care. It’s how the Tidewell family has done it for 40 years.

Brighten lives today CareRedefined.org

346071-1

THE TIDEWELL FAMILY OF COMPANIES

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

– President Lynn Larson

education component of tutoring, so they can catch up in school and … have an opportunity to get to a point where they can even get a scholarship,” Longboat Key Kiwanis Foundation President Bob Gault said. “So Children’s Guardian Fund is a perfect match for what our mission statement is.”

Longboat’s club has long focused on education by offering scholarships throughout the years, so helping children in unstable circumstances get a solid grip on schooling aligns with its goals. It costs about $1,000 to get a child professional tutoring for six months, Children’s Guardian Fund Executive Director Svetlana Kaminsky said, so if the match program goes as they hope, 20 children will receive professional tutoring.

“We’re hoping to make the most impact with the funds we can give them,” club President Lynn Larson said. “It’s money well spent to make a big difference in the lives of children for years to come.”

Children in foster care often get moved from place to place, sometimes from traumatic situations, so it’s difficult to keep up with schoolwork. Professional tutoring affords them a chance to get a grip on school because the tutor can focus on them and their needs.

Kiwanis’ match challenge is in

15

HOW TO DOUBLE YOUR DOLLARS The program has no end date — only when $10,000 is raised on behalf of Longboat’s Kiwanis Club. Donate online at ChildrensGuardianFund.org, or mail donations to Children’s Guardian Fund, PO Box 49722, Sarasota, FL 34230 with “LBK Kiwanis” in the memo.

FUND’S ANGEL TREE Kiwanis also participated in an Angel Tree for Children’s Guardian Fund over Christmas, set up in the Lazy Lobster. Owner Michael Garey offered free goodies for those who selected a child for whom to buy a gift, with all 30 children receiving one. The tree also had envelopes to make a donation, which kicked off the match challenge. As of Dec. 18, when the envelopes began coming in, Kaminsky said more than $700 had been donated in Kiwanis’ name.

lieu of the annual Kiwanis Foundation Lawn Party, the longstanding philanthropic event that drives the bulk of the club’s fundraising for the year. Last year, the event was Dec. 7, and all proceeds went to benefit All-Star Children Foundation in Sarasota, another organization that benefits local children in foster care.

Because of the pandemic, it was not possible to host the huge function in 2020, which drew 700 attendees in 2019. Gault said he hopes those who attended in 2019 will continue the charitable tradition with a donation this year instead.

“It’s kind of a virtual Kiwanis Lawn Party,” Gault said. “We’re trying to carry on the tradition but do it virtually, but next year we will be back with a great party.”

ROSA knows knees and we know ROSA ROSA® knows that all knees are not created equal.

As our new Orthopedic robot, ROSA’s innovative technology provides virtual and real-time intelligence about the unique anatomy of every knee. Sarasota Memorial Orthopedic surgeons use ROSA’s innovative technology to provide patients with more precise and longer lasting knee replacement procedures.

Better outcomes and a faster, safer return to your active life – does your Orthopedic surgeon know ROSA? We do!

For more information, visit smh.com/rosa.

346076-1

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

DISCOVER GRACIOUS WATERFRONT LIVING Enjoy active senior living at our community on the Manatee River waterfront and a lifestyle emphasizing wellness and lifelong learning opportunities. You’ll fall in love with maintenance-free living with stellar services like flexible dining options, housekeeping, 24-hour security and more.

Choose from a variety of spacious apartment homes, all backed by the assurance of a full continuum of care, including assisted living and skilled nursing, should you need them.

Call (877) 212-6670 today to learn more!

www.WestminsterPointPleasantFL.org

1533 4th Avenue West, Bradenton, FL

Active Living | Assisted Living | Skilled Nursing | Rehabilitation

344832-1

“We’re hoping to make the most impact with the funds we can give them. It’s money well spent to make a big difference in the lives of children for years to come.”

|

16

YOUR CALENDAR

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

THURSDAY, JAN. 7

JEWISH ITALIAN HISTORY From 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Zoom with the Longboat Key Education Center. Hear from Lael Hazan, an art and food history lecturer, as you delve into the experiences of the Jewish community throughout the more than 2,000-year history of its sojourn in Italy. There are two sessions. Members $40, nonmembers $45. For more information, call 383-8811, email info@LBKEducationCenter.org, or visit LBKEducationCenter. org

RECURRING EVENTS MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND SATURDAYS

LORD’S WAREHOUSE From 9 a.m. until 1 p.m., shop at the reopened Lord’s Warehouse thrift store. All proceeds from the store go to charity, and donations are welcome too.

Indoor and outdoor shopping will be available, but there is a limit of five customers at a time inside the warehouse. Masks are required. Visit LongboatIslandChapel.org for information.

MONDAYS

AT THE MOVIES WITH FILM CRITIC GUS MOLLASIS Eight discussions from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Longboat Key Education Center, 5370 GMD Suite #212, or on Zoom.

Stream films from your home, and discuss them in-person.

Members $120, nonmembers $130. Call 383-8811, email info@LBKEducationCenter.org, or visit LBKEducationCenter. org.

THINKING OUT LOUD: TIMELY TOPICS WITH MIKE KARP From 1-2:30 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road.

Topics will include U.S. and world current affairs, popular culture and topics relevant to seniors. Bring questions and an open mind. Groups are limited to 10, and masks are required. Cost is $10. RSVP to DonnaSharpBlaney@TheParadiseCenter.org or by phone at 383-6493.

TUESDAYS

MAHJONG From 1-3 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road.

This class is held indoors, and masks are required. Join

other mahjong players for a socially distanced session with the tiles. Cost is $10. RSVP to DonnaSharpBlaney@TheParadiseCenter.org or by phone 383-6493.

ROTARY CLUB Meets at 5 p.m. virtually on Zoom, every first and third Tuesday. Call Nancy Rozance at 203-605-4066, or email info@ LongboatKeyRotary.org.

SWEET AND SPIRITED YOGA Eight sessions from 9-10 a.m. at the Longboat Key Education Center, 5370 GMD, suite 212.

With certified yoga teacher Mary Kane, focus on body awareness, alignment and breath. Class size is limited.

Members $88, nonmembers, $104, or pay as you go. Call 383-8811, email info@LBKEducationCenter.org, or visit LBKEducationCenter.org.

WEDNESDAYS

MAGIC FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART Four sessions from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Longboat Key Education Center, 5370 GMD, suite 212. With magician Mark Hogan, learn new tricks, and have fun. In-person only with a very small number of students following COVID-19 protocols.

Members $75, nonmembers $85. Call 383-8811, email info@ LBKEducationCenter.org, or visit LBKEducationCenter.org.

PRESIDENT BY FATE Four sessions from 3-4:30 p.m. on Zoom with the Longboat Key Education Center. With history lecturer George Stassa, study eight men who became presidents because of death or assassination of their predecessors. Members $75, nonmembers $85. Call 383-8811, email info@LBKEducationCenter.org, or visit LBKEducationCenter.org.

YOGA AT THE LONGBOAT ISLAND CHAPEL From noon to 1 p.m. at the Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 GMD, take a gentle yoga class led by Cari Aslen. Class will incorporate chairs and yoga mats, both provided by the chapel. Class is limited to 10 members. Call the chapel to register at 383-6491.

THURSDAYS

FRIDAYS

THE WORLD’S GREATEST POEMS Four sessions from 9-10:30 a.m. on Zoom with the Longboat Education Center. With English professor, author and educator Ed Dwyer, read and discuss the greatest poems ever written.

Copies of poems will be emailed upon registration. Members $75, nonmembers $85. Call 383-8811, email info@LBKEducationCenter.org, or visit LBKEducationCenter.org.

YOGA & MEDITATION From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road, this class is designed to restore balance with your body, mind and breath. Certified Yoga instructor Cheryl Kaiser guides students through a sequence of yoga postures and movement designed for all levels. Poses can be modified safely using blocks and chairs. Some mats are available, or you can bring your own. Space is limited, so RSVP to MaryAnnBrady@TheParadiseCenter.org or by phone at 383-6493. This class is free for members or $10 per person.

WE DONATE 25 CENTS PER POUND TO THE ALL FAITHS FOOD BANK

Lose 15-30 Pounds in 30 Days!

4,240 patients lost 68,705 pounds.

Voted Best Weight Loss Program Year After Year!

Enroll by January 28 and save $100

$

5570 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key, FL 34228

330 South Pineapple Avenue • Downtown Sarasota • (941) 365-0812 Functional Medicine Since 1998 daneebarnett.com

ALL

Pottery ON SALE! 20%

OFF

ALL IN-STOCK POTTERY through 1/13

348164-1

Truly All Inclusive No Hidden Costs

longboatkeybuilders.com

FARM & GARDEN Your Farm & Garden offers a wide variety of top quality plants and products perfect for your Florida garden, landscape, office or home.

Local Garden Specialists are on hand to make sure your project gets off to the right start.

PLANTS & GARDEN ACCESSORIES SINCE 1953 3 ACRE GARDEN CENTER • NURSERY SW FL POTTERY CENTER

VOTED #1 GARDEN CENTER IN SARASOTA 735 South Beneva Road, Sarasota, FL 34232 941.366.4954 • www.YourFarmandGarden.com

795 895

$

348472-1

contractor. new homes. renovations. additions.

941-383-2900

Visit us on Facebook

Installations • Licensed • Planning & Design • Insured • Referrals Upon Request

348830-1

kitchen remodeling

Limited appointments available Call 941-365-0812 to schedule a FREE private consultation

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

17

TRIBUTES

Ian is lovingly remembered by his wife of 66 years, Lesley, their two daughters Karen and Melanie, his 4 grand-daughters, Alex, Kelly, Amy and Stephany and his 4 great-grandchildren, Holden, Grayson, Jackson and Emerson.

Ian was born on March 17, 1934 in Loughborough, England. He grew up in the northeast of England where he attended Tynemouth High School. Ian and Lesley were high school sweethearts and they eventually married in Tynemouth, England in 1954. He was a rugby fanatic and he played for Percy Park Rugby Football Club in North Shields as a young man.

Ian was a student at Durham University in the north of England, where he started as a fine art student, planning on becoming an art teacher but he soon switched to commercial art and industrial design.

He remained passionate about art and design and continued this passion into his retirement years, painting, drawing and decorating. He soon realized his aptitude for leadership in the Royal Marines where he became a Lieutenant, in the Special Boat Services, serving his country for 2 years in a post war Britain.

After starting his career at Formica he returned almost 30 years later as the Chief Executive. He had a bold and courageous spirit which took the family to Scotland

Ian touched so many lives and he was a LION of a man, who will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him. when he worked for Nairn Flooring and then onto a new adventure to South Africa.

He started his career in South Africa at Afcol, went on to work at Sappi Kraft and then Managing Director of Kohler before his retirement. Ian retired in 1995 as the Chairman of Holdains Ltd and Executive Director of Malbak Ltd, Director of MY Holdings (UK) and was the President of the International Corrugated Association. He loved Africa and said many times that it was in his blood and we have many happy memories of our time as a family in the African bush.

After living in South Africa for 25 years, Ian and Lesley retired to Longboat Key after vacationing on the island and falling in love with the area. They lived in several areas of the island but 10 years ago they moved to Marina Bay where he became an

Hearts Forever in our

Memorialize your loved one

with a lasting tribute in print and online, a permanent

record of a legacy your family will always cherish.

PROVIDED BY THE OBSERVER MEDIA GROUP

DONATIONS: Anyone wishing to make a donation in his honor can do so to the American Lung Association - https://www.lung.org/

Submit your Loved One’s Obituary Call Adela at 941-366-3468, ext. 346; tributes@yourobserver.com or ask your funeral director for assistance.

339893-1

Ian Willis, 86, passed away on December 18, 2020 at his home on Longboat Key, Florida after a long illness.

active member of the board eventually becoming the President of the Condominium Association. Ian also enjoyed golf and was an active member of the legendary Bandits Golf Group based on Longboat Key. He loved to paint and enjoyed travel, particularly wild life in and around South Africa and continued to travel up until his illness began 2 years ago.

Due to COVID the family will be holding a small private ceremony and when it is safe to do so, we will plan a celebration of life for Ian. Anyone wishing to make a donation in his honor can do so to the American Lung Association - https:// www.lung.org/ Ian touched so many lives and he was a LION of a man, who will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him. He will best be remembered as a big strong man with sure footing and indefatigable enthusiasm. Ian and Lesley had a 70 year love affair that was the foundation and strength of our family and we will miss him with all of our hearts. We love you Ian, Dad, Grandad, Popsie.

348960-1

Ian Willis 1934-2020

The Home Service Pros Who Care

The Area’s most Trusted Name since 1974

Starting at

4,800!

$

+ 12 Months 0% Financing Available!

Some restrictions apply. This offer applies to a 1.5 T, 14 SEER HVAC System with heat strip and thermostat included. Includes reconnection to existing ductwork, wiring, refrigerant piping and drain. Not valid on prior purchases and cannot combine offers.

Limited time offer.Contact Aqua Plumbing & Air for details.

Offer expires 1/31/2021.

250 OFF

100 OFF

$

Reme Halo Air Purifier

Cannot be combined with other offers.

Contact Aqua Plumbing & Air for details.

Offer expires 1/31/2021.

SERVICES INCLUDE: Complete Home Rewiring Standby Generators & Service Repairs on All Generators Surge Protection

Cannot be combined with other offers.

Contact Aqua Plumbing & Air for details.

Offer expires 1/31/2021.

FREE

$

Whole House Water Treatment System

LET AQUA HELP YOU ON YOUR NEXT ELECTRICAL PROJECT!

AND SO MUCH MORE!!

Water Quality Analysis ($99 value)

CALL NOW! 941.866.6210

or visit www.AquaPlumbingSarasota.com

Cannot be combined with other offers. Must present coupon at time of service.Contact Aqua Plumbing & Air for details.

Offer expires 1/31/2021.

Lic # cAc1816020 • PLbg cFc1428223 • ELEc Ec13009313

348410-1

New AC System

SEE HOW MUCH MORE YOU CAN SAVE!!

Air Conditioning

Plumbing

Electrical

Water Treatment

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

DEC. 14

BIKE, CAR: COLLISION COURSE 2:14 p.m., 3000 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Traffic crash: A bicyclist called police to report a collision with a vehicle that initially left the scene. The cyclist said they approached a side street crossing while riding on the sidewalk and were surprised by a vehicle.

One cyclist applied brakes, and a second hit the first cyclist before falling over the handlebars and hitting the front of the car. The driver returned to the scene and related a similar description, adding shrubs made visibility difficult. No serious injuries were reported. A report was taken for information only.

DEC. 15

NO ONE HURT 7:03 a.m., Broadway Street and Gulf of Mexico Drive Traffic crash: The rider of a motorcycle was cited for passing in a no-passing zone after a two-vehicle collision. According to an officer’s investigation and statements from witnesses, a northbound vehicle slowed to make a left turn from the island’s main highway when a motorcycle came up from behind and tried to pass on the left. The rider told police the vehicle in front slowed quickly, and he was trying to make an evasive maneuver. No injuries were reported.

OVER THE LINE? 1:03 p.m., 700 block of Broadway Street Trespassing: A property owner complained to police that a live-aboard boat resident consistently leaves his larger vessel’s dinghy on private land.

An officer using online property data sources was unable to initially determine if the small boat was indeed on the caller’s land but passed the information along to the town’s marine patrol officer along with a photo of the dinghy.

CATCHING SOME ZZZS 7:52 p.m., 500 block of Bay Isles Road Suspicious vehicle: A police officer investigating a parked van on town property discovered a traveler inside who said she was resting during a multistate road trip. The officer explained why he had stopped to investigate and said she could stay awhile longer if she needed to rest.

ing machine in a common area.

The manager said the machine had been checked and found to be in working order. The resident who wrote the note explained than an expensive garment had been damaged in the machine and that she thought she was using a dry erase marker for her note.

DEC. 17

LOST BUOY 1:25 p.m., near Sister Keys Boating call: The town’s marine patrol officer spotted a marker from the Intracoastal Waterway floating south after breaking away from its mooring. The officer notified the U.S. Coast Guard and towed the errant marker to the Linley Street boat ramp to await pickup.

DEC. 18

WASHED ASHORE 7:11 a.m., 4100 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Suspicious incident: A caller to police reported portions of an aircraft washing ashore along the beach. Officers who arrived to investigate immediately determined the debris wasn’t that of an airplane but rather from a sailboat that had grounded in September and was destroyed by high surf in November.

DEC. 24

THE SOUNDS OF FITNESS 8:38 a.m., 6800 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Noise: Loud music from an exercise class prompted a resident to call police to complain. Upon an officer’s arrival, no music was to be heard. The officer was told the class had concluded for the day.

DOG DAY MORNING 9:50 a.m., 3500 block of Mistletoe Lane Dog bite: Police reported an incident in which a man was bitten on the wrist by one of two dogs living next door. An

DEC. 27

FLOATING SAFELY 3:55 p.m., off the key Boating: Police stopped a rider on a personal watercraft and issued a verbal warning for not wearing the required personal flotation gear while underway. The rider was able to produce the proper equipment after being stopped.

officer determined both dogs were vaccinated and did not appear aggressive. The man who was bitten could not determine which of the two actually bit him because they are the same breed. The dogs’ owner said he mistakenly left open a door, allowing the dogs to escape. The victim did not wish emergency medical assistance and had contacted his physician.

NEW TO HIM 1:01 p.m., Country Club Shores Traffic warning: Police issued a warning to a driver who failed to stop at the flashing lights of a pedestrian crossing on Gulf of Mexico Drive. A pedestrian had not yet entered the crosswalk.

The driver, whose car was from out of state, told the officer he had never seen such a signal and was unaware of what to do.

DEC. 25

SHARP DISCOVERY 5:39 p.m., 500 block of Bay Isles Parkway Found property: A passing resident noticed hypodermic needles on the ground near a bus stop and called police. The items were safely removed and booked as evidence.

DEC. 27

QUITE A FISH STORY 11:24 a.m., 100 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Water rescue: Police and fire rescue personnel responded to a report of a child falling into the water from a pier. Nearby anglers helped rescue the child who told police he had been fishing and was pulled into the water by a large fish on his line.

The child was not injured, and police notified his parents of the incident.

WHO’S OUT OF ORDER? 9:15 a.m., 2200 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Citizen dispute: The property manager of a condominium community sought assistance from police after discovering a “Do Not Use” note written in permanent marker on a wash-

5 Ways to Worship at All Angels

All Angels Episcopal Church | 563 Bay Isles Rd • Indoor worship services this Sunday at 8 am and 10 am Face covering required.

With the situation engendered by the current public health emergency around the country and the world, we want to err on the side of caution.

All TBI physical gatherings are postponed until further notice.

Please access our Shabbat Services and programs on our website, YouTube, Facebook and Zoom.

• Drive-in Church, Sunday at 10:00. Tune your car radio to 107.5 FM • Walk-up Church, enjoy the garden setting and listen to the service • Live-stream - go to AllAngelsLBK.org to watch on-line • Zoom service - email dave@allangelsLBK.org for the link 347541-1

RABBI STEPHEN L. SNIDERMAN, D.D.

941-383-8161 • www.AllAngelsLBK.org

Growing in Jesus’ Name

St. Mary, Star of the Sea,

Worship With Us at Our Church Sunday Service 10:00 AM Please Register to Attend • Masks Required

CATHOLIC CHURCH

941-900-4903 The Rev. Dr. Norman Pritchard

Would like to Welcome & Invite You, Your Family Members & Friends to Celebrate Mass with Our Parish Community

Visitors & Residents Welcome Watch our 10:00 AM service live: www.bit.ly/cclbksermons or www.christchurchlbk.org (follow YouTube link)

WINTER MASS SCHEDULE

Saturday: 3:30 PM & 5:00 PM Sunday: 8:00, 9:30 & 11:30 AM Daily Mass at 9:00 AM- Monday through Friday

6400 Gulf of Mexico Dr.

•

941.383.8833 (office)

Confessions after daily Mass or by appointment

Reverend Robert Dziedziak

An Ecumenical Church that Welcomes all People Founded in 1956 347476-1

COVID- 19 safety measures are still in effect. Please visit our website www.stmarylbk.org for the most current information or to view Mass.

347529-1

DEC. 29

DEC. 28

Your health and well-being are of the utmost concern to us!

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

NO PARKING 7:40 p.m., 400 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Parking: While driving through a community, an officer spotted and ticketed a vehicle parked without authorization in a space reserved for those with disabilities. The $250 fine was levied.

SSSSHHHH 5:47 p.m., 7200 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Animal complaint: A dog owner was issued a verbal warning connected to a report of her dogs barking nearby.

Following an anonymous complaint, an officer went to the neighborhood and discovered two dogs on a driveway making noise. The officer found the owner nearby and explained the complaint.

A Center of Jewish Life and Learning in the Sarasota Area

567 Bay Isles Road • Longboat Key, FL

THEY’RE OK 5:07 p.m., 3700 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Water rescue: Police were summoned to check out the well-being of paddleboarders possibly waving for help in the Gulf of Mexico. A police boat from Sarasota determined they were not in distress.

LATE FOR GOLF 9 a.m., 300 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Traffic: A driver monitored at 62 mph in a 35 mph zone was issued a written warning. The driver said he was running late for a golf date and was aware of his speed, acknowledging he should be more careful.

Temple Beth Israel

941.383.3428 | www.tbi-lbk.org

LONG LOST 11:08 a.m., police headquarters Lost property: A visitor to the area in 2017 called police to request a report on an $8,000 ring lost three years ago at a resort. The owner said a report wasn’t completed in 2017 because she thought the item was lost accidentally, but now she was filing an insurance claim and thought she would need an official police case report.

347364-1

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

•

www.christchurchlbk.org

Please join us in worship in person on Sunday at 10:00 a.m., or online at our website and Facebook page.

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

Follow us on Facebook • www.longboatislandchapel.org

Lord’s Warehouse Thrift Shop is Open Mon., Wed. & Sat., 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

347389-1

18

Classifieds 30 Games 29 Real Estate 27 Weather 29

JANUARY 7, 2021

YOUR NEIGHBORS THAT’S AMORE (AGAIN) Tito and Liana Vitorino, who once ran the popular restaurant, now own it and are ready to reopen.

IF YOU GO

Vitorino hoped to open Dec. 21, but setbacks with the new location pushed it back to around Jan. 11.

Once the new location is open, its hours will be 4:30-9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and closed on Sunday.

For more information on the restaurant and its official opening, visit AmoreLBK.com.

NAT KAEMMERER STAFF WRITER

A

more Restaurant left Longboat Key in 2017, but the love remained among residents who flocked over the bridge to its new location. Now-owner Tito Vitorino hopes they’ll keep coming as he moves again, this time from Burns Court to 180 N. Lime Ave., in Sarasota’s Rosemary District. He hopes to open next week. “We were able to build a great relationship,� Vitorino said. “We have folks who are still very supportive and very attentive in what we are doing.�

Originally owned by Howard Rooks, Amore opened in 2014 on Bay Isles Road at the site of the new Town Center Green.

Vitorino, who used to work at the Colony Beach & Tennis Resort, played piano, managed and made the rounds among regulars every night. His wife, Liana, was the host of a restaurant one loyal customer referred to as “the neighborhood ‘Cheers.’� “He’s a very enthusiastic owner, and he’s got a great team, and the food’s always good,� longtime regular and Longboat Key resident Tom Callahan said. “I enjoyed going to see Tito and speaking with him and his wife also. They’re very pleasant.�

Rooks sold the building and land in 2017 to the town, moving Amore to Burns Court and bringing the Vitorinos along, he as manager and she as the host.

The pair make a good team running the place, Callahan said. The trio came as a package deal until May 2019, when Rooks retired and sold the restaurant to the Vitorinos. The couple, who is

THE FOOD

The pared-down menu is now a balance between classic Italian dishes and authentic Portuguese. Vitorino is most excited about the cataplana dishes, such as cataplana de marisco. “Cataplana� describes the cooking vessel, a hammered oblong copper sphere that latches closed. The food inside — stew-like ingredients, such as seafood and vegetables — is steam-cooked, resulting in an aromatic, glasses-fogging spectacle when opened. “It’s just mesmerizing, and suddenly, two tables down people want to order it,� Vitorino said.

2021

347352-1

New Years Resolutions Get a Gym Membership Drink Cleaner Water Eat Healthier Get More Organized Breathe Fresher Air Buy a Generator

Photos by Nat Kaemmerer

Tito Vitorino (top) is eagerly awaiting the reopening of his restaurant at its new Sarasota location on Lime Avenue.

Portuguese, then added Portuguese dishes to the Italian menu.

It is now half Portuguese, half Italian dishes on the new menu. “When we moved from that beautiful, majestic location on Longboat Key to the Burns Court area with Howard Rooks, that was always the plan, ‌ that in a couple of years, we would buy the place, and we will take over from Howard Rooks, and so that is what we did,â€? Vitorino said. “Everything went according to the plan from the beginning.â€?

Until March 2020. The pandemic and subsequent shutdowns crippled Amore like it did so many others. Takeout orders and outdoor dining couldn’t generate enough revenue. “Suddenly, I only had 65 seats to work with, and the bills were all the same, and then a very profitable restaurant suddenly became a liability,� Vitorino said.

Rooks, who owns the Burns Court building, let them out of their lease. The only way the Vitorinos could save their restaurant was to downsize, so they packed up and moved. The new location seats 64 indoors and 24 outdoors.

Vitorino is returning to his roots after more than 20 years and standing in as his own chef, while Liana will oversee the whole front-of-house operation. “It’s much smaller and much more manageable,� Vitorino said. “We scaled down, and we have to change and adapt to the new way of life.�

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

STAYING ALIVE

I

f you’re a pessimist, the pandemic is starting to look more like bad climate than bad weather. But area theater groups remain

optimistic. They’re gearing up for the day the storm passes. Until then, they’re entertaining local audiences with creative alternatives to conventional live theater on stage. Here’s a snapshot of what they’re planning and why. – MARTY FUGATE

ASOLO CONSERVATORY The pandemic posed new problems for the FSU/Asolo Conservatory for Actor Training. Its troupe of second-year actors puts on plays, but only as a means to an end. Educating professional stage actors is the point. Greg Leaming, the conservatory’s director, had to keep their lessons going in a new world of social distancing.

“Classwork was a relatively quick fix,” Leaming says. “We created hybrid classes for acting and movement. … The biggest challenge was creating performance opportunities.

We solved that with two virtual productions. Our first, ‘Twilight,’ has already closed. ‘Julius Caesar’ is coming up in April.

We’ll produce it with the same technical talents from ‘Twilight.’ Jonathan Epstein will be directing, and he’s editing the script right now for rehearsals.

After that, we’re planning a full season next year in the Cook Theater.”

FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE

Since FST pulled the plug on live productions March 15, 2020, it has filled the gap with inventive online improv, but that’s about to change. Richard Hopkins, FST’s producing artistic director, says: “After careful consideration, we plan to reopen with two new musical revues in late March. These will comply with all CDC guidelines, including masks, social distancing, temperature checks and limited attendance.

We’ve also updated our air-conditioning system, with MERV13 air filters to eliminate recycled air.” Hopkins admits it’s a lot of trouble. “But it’s worth it to us. Our audience is starving for live theater — and we’re hungry, too.”

ONLINE

WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE’S “JULIUS CAESAR” When: April 7-26 Tickets: $10-$25 Visit: tickets.Asolo Rep.org

IF YOU GO

■ CAROLE J. BUFFORD’S “VINTAGE POP!” When: Opens March 24 Where: FST Keating Theatre, 1241 N. Palm Ave. Tickets: $35-$39 ■ REBECCA HOPKINS AND SARAH DURHAM’S “THREE PIANOS” When: Opens March 31 Where: FST Court Cabaret, 1265 First St. Tickets: $35-$39 Info: Call 366-9000, or visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org Courtesy photos

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

WHETHER YOU’RE LISTING OR LOOKING...

I bring over 10 years of experience in the negotiation of high stakes contracts for buyers and sellers on Florida’s Suncoast.

YOU CAN BE ASSURED YOUR PROPERTY WILL ACHIEVE ITS MAXIMUM MARKET POTENTIAL.

RECENTLY SOLD AND PENDING LISTINGS

941.685.3590 Jeff@JeffRhinelander.com JeffRhinelander.com

COUNTRY CLUB SHORES 602 Ranger Lane SOLD! $3,010,000

BIRD KEY 472 Partridge Circle PENDING! $4,175,000

BIRD KEY 525 Bird Key Drive SOLD! $1,950,000

INN ON THE BEACH 200 Sands Point Rd., #1405 SOLD! $1,425,000

L’AMBIANCE 415 L’Ambiance Dr., #302B SOLD! $1,625,000

COUNTRY CLUB SHORES 560 Outrigger Drive PENDING! $1,560,000

443 JOHN RINGLING BLVD., STE. F | SARASOTA, FL 34236 595 BAY ISLES ROAD, STE. 250 | LONGBOAT KEY, FL 34228 348510-1

20

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

BENCH M A R K R E SU LTS • S T R AT EGIC M A R K ET I NG • PER SONA L I Z ED SERV ICE BENCH M A R K R E SU LTS • S T R AT EGIC M A R K ET I NG • PER SONA L I Z ED SERV ICE

2067 H A R BOUR CLUB LINKSROAD DR I V#707 E, #4 775 LONGBOAT L on g b o at K e y | O f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 #4 Longboat Key | Offered at $1,349,000 2067 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, MLS# A4178487 L on g b o at KMLS# e y | OA4453571 f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4178487

ER

D UN

N CO

ER

D UN

MLS# A4178487 L on g b o at KMLS# e y | OA4456224 f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4178487

U

ER D N

MLS# A4481024 L on g b o at KMLS# e y | OA4178487 f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4178487

T AC R T

2067 H A 901 R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4 NORSOTA WAY L on g b o at K e y | O f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 #4 2067 H A RKey BOUR LINKS DR I V0E, Siesta | Offered at $5,995,000

N CO

2067 A R BOUR LINKSDRIVE DR I V E, #4 5635 H GULF OF MEXICO #203 L on g b o at K e y | O f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 Longboat Key | Offered at $795,000 2067 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4

CT A R

T

2067 230 H ASANDS R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4 POINT ROAD #3605 L on g b o at K e y | O f f ere d at DR $ 7 79, 0 0 #4 2067 Longboat H A R BOUR LINKS I V0E, Key | Offered at $669,000 L on g b o at KMLS# e y | OA4178487 f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS#A4485777 MLS# A4178487

N CO

T AC R T

2067 HA R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4 565 SANCTUARY DRIVE #A203 L on g b o at K e y | O f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 #4 2067 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V0E, Longboat Key | Offered at $910,000 L on g b o at KMLS# e y | OA4178487 f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4481722 MLS# A4178487

D OL S ST JU

2067 H A494 R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4 PARTRIDGE CIRCLE L on g b o at K e y | O f f ere d at DR $ 7 79, 0 0 #4 2067 H A R BOUR I V0E, Longboat Key | LINKS Sold at $1,950,000 L on g b o at KMLS# e y | OA4178487 f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4472251 MLS# A4178487

I A N A DDY, PA I ARN E A LAT DDY, O R ® , M B PA A R E A LT O R ®, M B A

IanAddy@MichaelSaunders.com IanAddy@MichaelSaunders.com

2067 INN H A RON BOUR I V E, #4 THELINKS BEACHDR #2807 L on g b o at K e y | O f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 #4 Longboat Key | Offered at $1,950,000 2067 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V0E, MLS L on g b o at KMLS# e y | #A4470962 OA4178487 f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4178487

D OL S ST JU

20678377 H A RMIDNIGHT BOUR LINKS I V E, #4 PASSDR ROAD L on g b o at K e y | O f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 #4 2067 HSiesta A R BOUR LINKS DR I V0E, Key | Offered at $2,000,000 L on g b o at KMLS# e y | OA4178487 f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4476899 MLS# A4178487

D OL S ST JU

2067 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4 L onH g b3616 atBOUR KFAIR e y | OOAKS f f ere d PLACE at DR $ 7 79, 0 0 #4 2067 AoR I V0E, Longboat Key | LINKS Sold at $1,935,000 L on g b o at KMLS# e y | OA4178487 f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4449455 MLS# A4178487

G A I L W IT T IG IL TI IG BG RA OK E RW - A SIT SOC ATE

B R O K E R - A S S O C I A T com E GailWittig@MichaelSaunders.

GailWittig@MichaelSaunders.com

347496-1

941.387.0100 941.387.0100 W W W . L O N G B O AT L I F E . C O M

21

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

THE LONGBOAT KEY EDUCATION CENTER 2020-2021 Like College, Only Better!

FROM PAGE 20

ASOLO REPERTORY THEATRE

Asolo Rep makes its home at the FSU Center for the Performing Arts. Inside, all the stages are now off-limits.

Outside, there’s a massive, raised terrace projecting from the entrance. Last fall, Michael Donald Edwards took an imaginative leap and repurposed it as a platform for an outdoor stage. “We Need a Little Christmas” was the first production there. It was also a proof of concept. “We built a stage and a lighting grid in front of the theater,” Edwards says. “Then we performed the show entirely outdoors under strict COVID-19 safety protocols.” Would people come? That was the question. “We decided that if we could sell 65% of the seats, we’d go ahead with more outdoor productions in 2021. We actually sold 85% of our tickets, and we’re moving forward to an exciting season. This is our bridge to the next season — and a hoped-for return to normalcy.” Asolo Rep will announce its line-up of plays Jan. 12, so check AsoloRep.org for more info.

SPECIAL ONE-TIME EVENTS AMERICAN HISTORY iPHONES AND iPADS LECTURE SERIES NATURE WALKS MOVIE DISCUSSIONS BOOK GROUPS MEDITATION C A N A S TA LITERATURE PAINTING BRIDGE MAH JONGG CELEBRATING Y O G A 35 YEARS! MAGIC QIGONG BIRDING RELIGION CONCERTS WELLNESS ANTI-AGING SUPREME COURT PHOTOGRAPHY F I L M F E S T I VA L S SATURDAY WORKSHOPS B R O A D W AY B I O S MORNING FORUMS T H E AT R E S H O W C A S E WORLD POLITICS & EVENTS ART & MUSIC APPRECIATION

IF YOU GO

■ RONAN NOONE’S “THIRST” When: Jan. 14-16 Where: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St. Tickets: $20 ■ BRENDAN RAGAN’S “SAFE HOUSE” When: Jan. 26 to April 4 Where: Urbanite Theatre, 1487 Second St. Tickets: $25 ■ EMILY KACZMAREK’S “SAM & LIZZIE” When: 5 and 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 13 Where: Hermitage Artist Retreat beach, 6660 Manasota Key Road, Englewood When: 6 p.m. Feb. 14 Where: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St. Tickets: $25 Info: Call 321-1397, or visit UrbaniteTheatre.com

Most Programs Available on Zoom.

WE HOPE FIELD TRIPS & DAYTRIPS WILL BE BACK NEXT SEASON

VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.LBKEDUCATIONCENTER.ORG

For a brochure call: (941)383-8811

348523-1

THE LONGBOAT KEY EDUCATION CENTER 5370 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE, SUITE #212 At the Centre ShopS of LongboAt Key

properties properties expertise expertise results results

EXCEPTIONAL EXCEPTIONAL

941.928.3559 941.928.3559

MichaelMoulton@michaelsaunders.com MichaelMoulton@michaelsaunders.com

LD SO

THE PLAYERS CENTRE FOR PERFORMING ARTS

The Urbanite has a full calendar of alternative performances. Brendan Ragan, the theater’s co-artistic director, says: “We’re planning a series of outdoor play readings. Unlike our typically intimate Urbanite productions, these will have lots of space, with actors on microphones reading exciting new works to a distanced audience. Emily Kaczmarek will also do a reading of her new play — she’s a fellow of the Hermitage Artist Retreat.

“On the Urbanite stage, we’re doing my ‘Safe House’ as an immersive virtual reality experience limited to micro-audiences of four. Our third annual ‘Modern Works Festival’ from April 13-18 will be entirely online.

We’ll also offer two more free radio plays as bonus content.”

Last December, Jeffery Kin, The Players’ producing artistic director, directed a successful outdoor production of “A Christmas Carol.” Kin plans to repeat that success in the months ahead. “Our survival strategy boils down to staying safe and thinking small,” he says. “We plan to keep staging excellent outdoor productions with small projects, small casts and small budgets. We’ll start with two pop-up shows at The Bazaar on Apricot and Lime. After that, … we’ve got a few musical surprises in spring.”

IF YOU GO

■ STEPHEN TEMPERLEY’S “SOUVENIR” When: Jan. 21-31 Where: 821 Apricot Ave. Tickets: $20 ■ ELLIOTT RAINES’ “IN LOVE WITH SHAKESPEARE” When: Jan. 4-14 Where: 821 Apricot Ave. Tickets: $20 Info: Call 365-2494, or visit ThePlayers. org

DON’T MISS ESTATE SALE! 1329 N Lake Shore Dr

UNRIVALED UNRIVALED Certified Residential Specialist Certified Residential Specialist Broker-Associate Broker-Associate

URBANITE THEATRE

PEL HAS DONATED OVER $220,400 TO COMMUNITY YOUTH IN NEED.

EXTRAORDINARY EXTRAORDINARY

>>

LD SO

<<

Friday, Jan. 8: 9am-3pm • Saturday, Jan. 9: 9am-2pm

Everything Must GO!

845Longboat LongboatClub ClubRoad Road 845 www.845LongboatClubRoad.com | Regent Court 19,300 | A4440615 | $19,750,000 19,300 SFSF| A4440615 $19,750,000 A4440615 | 19,300SF | 140’ on| the Gulf | $16,500,000

House is being demolished.

Plants, trees, all interior and exterior doors, pavers, etc.

LighthousePoint PointDrive DriveCommunity 6565Lighthouse www.35LighthousePointDrive.com | Gated 4,933|SF SF| A4438181 | A4438181 | Front $3,795,000 4,933 | $3,795,000 A4477572 4,430sf | 4BR | Bay | $3,300,000

LD SO

440 Gulf of Mexico Dr | Longboat Key, Florida 440 Gulf of of Mexico DrDr | Longboat Key,Key, Florida 440 Gulf Mexico | Longboat Florida

501Halyard HalyardLane Lane| Lido Shores 501 www.1212WestwayDrive.com 2,340 | A4448464 | $1,995,000 2,340 SFSF| A4448464 | $1,995,000 A4482176 | 4,627sf | 5BR | $3,825,000

gigi

SILVERBERG Luxury Property Realtor

Longboat Key • Lido Key St. Armands • Siesta Key Lakewood Ranch West of Trail Downtown Sarasota Contact me today

941-993-3695

PROPERTIES.com PROPERTIES .com PROPERTIES .com

941.210.3149 for store merchandise 941.993.8757 for estate sales, donations and consignments

348035-1

finest finest

www.SARASOTAS SARASOTAS SARASOTAS

1520 N. Lime Avenue • Sarasota, FL 34237 | Hours: Wed - Sat, 10am - 4pm www.personalizedestateliquidation.com | Facebook & Instagram – @pelsarasota

•Interested in moving to a condo downtown?

•Purchasing a home on the water?

•Perhaps a home in a golf course community?

No one will work harder to find you the perfect home

Let me help you explore your options and with your search.

I can start by emailing you listings today.

Over 25 Years Experience

Broker Associate - Premier Sotheby’s International Realty

346448-1

Water Club #401 Water Club 65 Lighthouse Point Drive#401 | Gated Community 3,400SF|SF | A4421764 | $2,575,000 3,400 | A4421764 $2,575,000 A4438181 4,933sf | 4BR ‘ |Bay Front | $3,510,000

348961-1

22

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

23

#1 Small Team in Florida for 2019 - 2020* $100M Closed & Pending in 2020

Be a part of our Success!

Ryan Ackerman (941) 387-1818

Barbara Ackerman (941) 387-1820

www.ackermangroup.net

1 FAMILY • 2 AGENTS • 3 DECADES OF SUCCESS NEW LISTING

OAKS PRESERVE EMERALD WOODS 292 Turquoise Lane 3BR/2BA | 2,255 SQFT | 2-Car Garage BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED ON LARGE LOT - WATER VIEW

NEW LISTING

$595,000

LONGBOAT KEY BEACHES 775 Longboat Club Rd. #404 2BR/2BA | 1,602 SQFT | Former Model TURNKEY FURNISHED

NEW LISTING

LIDO LIDO BEACH CLUB 1212 Benjamin Franklin Dr. #608 2BR/2BA | 1,421 SQFT | Covered Parking GLOWING SUNSETS OVER THE GULF!

$625,000 DOWNTOWN THE “Q” 267 Cosmopolitan Ct. 3BR/3BA | 4,566 SQFT STUNNING TOWNHOUSE “SMART HOME”

$799,000

NEW LISTING

$1,795,000 COCOANUT BAYOU SIESTA KEY 4317 Midnight Pass Rd. 5BR/5.5BA | 7,121 SQFT | 5-Car /Recreational Prkg PRIVATE DOCK/LIFT | DEEP WATER

$4,895,000

NEW LISTING

DOWNTOWN LA BELLASARA 464 Golden Gate Pt. #302 3BR/3.5BA | 3,135 SQFT PRIVATE 2-CAR GARAGE | DOG FRIENDLY

$859,000 OSPREY MERIDIAN 6 AT THE OAKS 3603 N. Point Rd. #302 3BR/3BA | 2,545 SQFT UPDATED

$599,000 LONGBOAT KEY CLUB LONGBOAT 5055 Gulf of Mexico Dr. #536 3BR/2BA | 1,484 SQFT FULLY FURNISHED DIRECT GULF FRONT!

$2,295,000 LONGBOAT KEY $11,495,000 VILLA SENA - BEACHFRONT 5965 Gulf of Mexico Dr. 7BR/6.5BA’ | 10,087 SQFT | Multiple Garages & Private Dock w/Lift 2 ACRES DIRECT GULF | 150 FT OF BEACHFRONT

|

LONGBOAT KEY GRAND BAY V 3080 Grand Bay Blvd. #526 2BR/2BA | 1,380 SQFT | Direct Bay Front OPEN BAY VIEWS

$889,000

$619,000

|

OFFICE@ACKERMANGROUP.NET WWW.ACKERMANGROUP.NET www.ackermangroup.net941-387-1820 office@ackermangroup.net 941-387-1820 COLDWELL BANKER REALTY • 443 JOHN RINGLING BLVD., STE. F, SARASOTA, FL 34236

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

Owned and operated by NRT, LLC

348296-1

GOLDEN GATE POINT BAY POINT APTS. 350 Golden Gate Pt. #33 2BR/2BA | 1,647 SQFT | Corner Unit STUNNING BAY, CITY SKYLINE & GULF VIEWS

24

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

BIRD OF THE WEEK A closer look at the feathered friends with which we share Longboat.

Northern cardinal W Syracuse Grand Rapids Flint

Cleveland Allentown Pittsburgh Harrisburg Des Moines South Bend Washington, D.C. / Fort Wayne Baltimore Columbus Indianapolis Cincinnati Richmond Louisville Belleville Rockford

Knoxville

Nashville

Asheville

Sarasota / Bradenton

ith their sweet songs and brilliant plumage, northern cardinals, our most abundant songbird, are an audible and visual delight.

The brilliant red plumage of male northern cardinals reminded English colonists of the robes of Roman Catholic cardinals, hence their name. The only cardinal native to North America, our species is set apart from several found in South America.

Northern cardinals live in a range of habitats, as long as a dense growth of shrubs, bushes or small trees is available. Using their large, powerful bills to crack a variety of seeds, they mostly feed on plant matter.

Mated pairs can be seen feeding together, with the male often offering food to his less vividly colored mate. And unlike many other songbirds, both male and female cardinals sing, often to each other.

In the 1800s, northern cardinals were trapped by the thousands and shipped overseas as cage birds. Thanks to protection by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and other laws, we can still enjoy these beautiful birds in the wild.

Like all small wildlife, northern cardinals are threatened by glue

Miri Hardy

traps, used as pest control. When small animals come into contact with the traps, they become stuck and can die. And because they’re frequently found in the same backyards and parks where cats roam, northern cardinals are vulnerable to cat predation.

— MIRI HARDY, SAVE OUR SEABIRDS

340181-1

Save our Seabirds is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and release sick and injured wild birds. Follow @SaveOurSeabirds to learn more.

Predation by domestic cats is the No. 1 humancaused threat to birds, including northern cardinals, in the U.S. and Canada.

RESORT

STYLE PATIO FURNITURE

at

WHOLESALE PRICES

Visit our NEW Showroom & Design Center to CUSTOM-ize your outdoor furniture.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC HIGH END LOOK & QUALITY AT WHOLESALE PRICING

CUSTOM MADE AT OUR PALMETTO FACTORY

EXTENDED WARRANTY ON ALL FURNITURE

FLORIDAPATIO.NET | 941-722-5643 | 2500 US BUSINESS 41 NORTH | PALMETTO, FL 34221 | OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 9-5

346771-1

QUALITY OUTDOOR FURNITURE

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

25

Looking for Luxury Living on the Water?

REID MURPHY

WILL LEAD YOU TO YOUR DREAM HOME! Photo taken by Reid Murphy

CALL REID TODAY! | 941.232.3304 | www.ReidMurphy.com

LONGBOAT KEY EXQUISITE BAYFRONT ESTATE $7,800,000 LONGBOAT KEY CUSTOM KEY WEST STYLE HOME $6,950,000 Casually elegant behind private gates. Stunning features & panoramic views. One of the finest Exceptional Bayfront custom Key West style 4 bedroom home. Spectacular views. Bayside pool. properties on Florida’s west coast! 75’ heated pool on 600’ of frontage deep bay water w/3 boat Roof top viewing area. Boat dock. The best! slips, guest house & 8 car garage.

NEWLISTING

NEWPRICE

$5,500,000 LONGBOAT KEY BEACHFRONT ESTATE $7,495,000 BIRD KEY BOATERS PARADISE New 2017 construction. Casually elegant open 5BR/7BA plan overlooking gorgeous Gulf of Mexico Beautiful Bird Key custom 4BD/4BA home. 100ft Sarasota Bay frontage w/infinity pool. Deep water dock w/ lifts. Four car garage. beach with outdoor living on two levels.

NEWPRICE

LBK PRIVATE GULFFRONT ESTATE $4,995,000 4BR/5BA. Magnificent 4BR/5BA w/ private walk to gorgeous Gulf beach. Dramatic views from multiple porches. 4 car garage. Walking distance to shops. AMAZING VALUE!

SARASOTA HARBOR ACRES $3,500,000 4/5BR Home w/panoramic Bay views from rooftop deck. Superior details plus expansive cook’s kitchen, pool & outdoor kitchen.

Prestigious location.

Only 2 SITES LEFT

LIDO KEY PROPERTIES Coolidge Drive Jackson Drive Van Buren Drive

LBK NEW CONSTRUCTION - BONAIRE $3,195,000 New Home 5BD/5BA Gulfside. $3,685,000 $2,995,000 4BD/4BA Home Gulfside $3,650,000 $2,945,000 Build your dream home.

Lot $1,050,000

Developers Realty Inc. Lic. Real Estate Broker

THE PRESERVE AT LONGBEACH An exclusive enclave of 12 new construction homes. Refinement meets relaxation at the north end of LBK in Longbeach Village with beach-to-bay access.

www.ReidMurphy.com

LONGBOAT KEY POSITANO WALK-OUT $3,875,000 Beautiful 3BR/3.5BA. Open plan w/expansive terrraces & 10’ ceilings. Dramatic Gulf of Mexico & beach views from floor to ceiling windows. +2 car private garage.

NEWLISTING

LBK RARELY AVAILABLE CONDO $729,000 Covert Gulfside 3BD corner third floor. Beautiful beach. Great location, close to restaurants and shops with Gulf and sunset views.

595 Bay Isles Road Longboat Key, FL 34228

347401-1

ST. ARMAND GATED ESTATE $5,985,000 Exquisite w/stunning views, expansive windows & verandas capture outstanding water & sunset views. Dramatic pool w/jacuzzi. New dock & lift.

Walking distance to St. Armands.

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

LOCALLY KNOWN. GLOBALLY CONNECTED. SINCE 1976.

LONGBOAT KEY 6161 Gulf Of Mexico Drive Maureen Horn 941-539-3384 A4486344 $6,800,000

LONGBOAT KEY 210 Sands Point Road 2807 Ian Addy, PA 941-961-8850 A4470962 $1,950,000

LONGBOAT KEY 5630 Gulf Of Mexico Drive Lawrence Zeigler 941-228-2612 A4454108 $1,850,000

SARASOTA 443 Bird Key Drive Ann Martin & Joanna Benante 941-356-7717 A4473322 $1,380,000

LONGBOAT KEY 340 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 123 Malihe Karimi 941-376-5099 A4485971 $1,250,000

LONGBOAT KEY 622 Buttonwood Drive Maureen Horn 941-539-3384 A4486183 $1,200,000

SARASOTA 340 S Palm Avenue PL1 Michael Moulton 941-928-3559 A4471687 $995,000

LONGBOAT KEY 1485 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 104 Kathleen Callender 941-321-3115 A4483591 $925,000

SARASOTA 988 Blvd Of The Arts 1911 Nora Johnson 941-809-1700 A4478131 $875,000

LONGBOAT KEY 1914 Harbourside Drive 701 Carol Aviles & Julie Klick 941-356-6777 A4483185 $849,000

LONGBOAT KEY 1907 Harbour Links Circle 4 George Zimmerman 941-320-8931 A4485152 $840,000

SARASOTA 800 N Tamiami Trail 1007 Bibi-Ann Allard PA & Kevin Moran, PA 941-685-0422 A4485565 $799,000

LONGBOAT KEY 5635 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 203 Ian Addy, PA 941-961-8850 A4481024 $795,000

BRADENTON 73 Tidy Island Boulevard Kathy Valente & Gregory Zies, LLC 941-685-6767 A4477926 $670,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3240 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 602 Michael Moulton 941-928-3559 A4484014 $649,000

SARASOTA 707 S Gulfstream Avenue 408 Marybeth Flynn 941-704-1477 A4472345 $630,000

LONGBOAT KEY 2364 Harbour Oaks Drive Jenifer Schwell 941-780-0968 A4484967 $629,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3240 Gulf Of Mexico Drive B305 Terri Derr & Rita Holbrook 941-356-6694 A4485219 $565,000

PALMETTO 1317 50th Avenue Drive W Erica Thomas 941-799-9365 A4484149 $479,900

BRADENTON 3404 79th Street Circle W 103 Kathy Valente & Gregory Zies, LLC 941-685-6767 A4484041 $450,000

BRADENTON 7730 34th Avenue W 102 Cheryl Roberts 941-266-1450 A4486333 $435,000

SARASOTA 101 S Gulfstream Avenue 14A Ryndie Brusco 941-809-6913 A4450404 $425,000

LONGBOAT KEY 4400 Exeter Drive J-201 Malihe Karimi 941-376-5099 A4485703 $399,000

LONGBOAT KEY 6324 Laguna Drive The Walter Group 941-232-2000 A4479329 $395,000

SARASOTA 800 S Blvd Of Presidents 8 Joanna Benante & Ann Martin 941-356-7717 A4477873 $389,000

LONGBOAT KEY 600 Sutton Place 101 George Zimmerman 941-320-8931 A4479167 $325,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3320 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 103-C Sandi Layfield 941-914-2807 A4477789 $324,900

LONGBOAT KEY 3440 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 14 Susan Smith & Cathy Meldahl, PA 941-302-3440 A4473639 $245,000

BRADENTON 204 3rd Street W 204 Patty Brooks 941-545-1194 A4462765 $227,500

SARASOTA 280 Golden Gate Point 300 Klaus Lang & Nora Johnson 941-320-1223 A4484085 $4,980,000

LONGBOAT KEY 5372 Sandhamn Place Richard Perlman 941-228-8580 A4458496 $3,850,000

MSC MORTGAGE | MSC TITLE | MS&C COMMERCIAL NEW HOMES & CONDOMINIUMS

LONGBOAT KEY 3334 Sabal Cove Lane Kelly Quigley 941-356-9954 A4484598 $2,295,000

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM

348846-1

26

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

DEC. 14-18

FAIRWAY BAY

ADAM HUGHES

Gary Westerberg, trustee, of Wayzata, Minn., sold the Unit 652 condominium at 2120 Harbourside Drive to Paul and Laurie Singer, of Allison Park, Pa., for $800,000. Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,039 square feet of living area.

It sold for $520,000 in 1999.

RESEARCH EDITOR

A

condominium in The Beach Residences tops all transactions in this week’s real estate. Scott, trustee, and Gayla Moore, of Sarasota, sold the Unit 1203 condominium at 1300 Benjamin Franklin Drive to Jewel Benson, trustee, of Columbus, Ohio, for $4.8 million. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, threeand-a-half baths and 3,872 square feet of living area. It sold for $4.3 million in 2017.

LIGHTHOUSE POINT

Thomas and Shana DiNapoli, of Sarasota, sold their home at 35 Lighthouse Point Drive to Robert and Marie DeSantis, of Longboat Key, for $3.3 million.

Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, four-and-a-half baths, a pool and 4,430 square feet of living area.

COUNTRY CLUB SHORES

Gregg and Barbara Kaplan, of Longboat Key, sold their home at 524 Schooner Lane to Lary and Virginia Lindsey, of Longboat Key, for $2.3 million. Built in 2008, it has four bedrooms, fourand-a-half baths, a pool and 4,438 square feet of living area.

SANCTUARY AT LONGBOAT KEY CLUB

Dominic Zaccone II, trustee, and Elizabeth Zaccone, of Sarasota, sold the Unit C-107 condominium at 535 Sanctuary Drive to Terrance and Kimberly Schneider, of Pewaukee, Wis., for $2.18 million. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two-anda-half baths and 2,580 square feet of living area. It sold for $950,000 in 2018.

SLEEPY LAGOON PARK

Allan and Kathleen Brockett, of Port Saint Lucie, sold their home at 760 Marbury Lane to

Courtesy photo

Unit 1203 at 1300 Benjamin Franklin Drive was built in 2005. It has four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths and 3,872 square feet of living area.

Richard Funk, of Longboat Key, for $1.65 million. Built in 2012, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,611 square feet of living area. It sold for $900,000 in 2005.

Gregory Ciccolo and Stephanie Sonnabend, of Longboat Key, sold their home at 586 Lyons Lane to Victoria McCue, trustee, of Malvern, Pa., for $930,000.

Built in 1977, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,718 square feet of living area. It sold for $575,000 in 2013.

SEAPLACE

Lindsay Ann Wardman, of Sarasota, sold the Unit G5-406-B condominium at 1965 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Timothy Hall, of Longboat Key, for $1.45 million. Built in 1977, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,804 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.1 million in 2015.

Margaret Schroeder and Sarah Justin, trustees, of Longboat Key, sold the Unit 522 condominium at 3080 Grand Bay Blvd. to James Kelleher and C. Ellen Kelleher, trustees, of Sarasota, for $525,000. Built in 1996, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,276 square feet of living area. It sold for $670,000 in 2004.

CONRAD BEACH

Michela Tao, trustee, of Orlando, sold the home at 383 Firehouse Lane to Catalina Hendrickson, of Longboat Key, for $1.01 million. Built in 2005, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 2,117 square feet of living area. It sold for $902,000 in 2015.

Patricia Wermuth, of Doral, sold her Unit 2001 condominium at 2010 Harbourside Drive to David and Mary Meckley, of Longboat Key, for $745,000. Built in 1985, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,135 square feet of living area. It sold for $480,000 in 2012.

Thomas and Anna Petri sold their Unit 154 condominium at 1930 Harbourside Drive to Patricia and Stephen Szakats, Alexandra Szakats and Adam LudwigButterfield, of New York City, for $440,000. Built in 1982, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,192 square feet of living area. It sold for $399,500 in 2014.

ONLINE See more transactions at YourObserver.com

Randolph DF LLC sold the Unit 108C condominium at 2089 Gulf of Mexico Drive to 5132 Glenn Lakes LLC for $575,000. Built in 1974, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 933 square feet of living area. It sold for $555,000 in 2019.

GRAND BAY

Merrill Pinsel Bonder, of Sarasota, sold her Unit 211 condominium at 3040 Grand Bay Blvd. to Leonard Wall, trustee, of Longboat Key, for $1.4 million. Built in 1996, it has three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths and 2,781 square feet of living area. It sold for $925,000 in 2012.

These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of Dec. 25-31 in order of dollar amounts.

L O N G B OAT K E Y ADDRESS 5611 GMD

PERMIT Re-roof

APPLICANT Avignon Villas Condo

AMOUNT $111,831

541 Wedge Lane

Seawall

Tay Solita

$63,363

6940 Poinsettia Ave.

Flood repairs

Sally Sue Roch

$48,550

301 Firehouse Court

New roof

Angela M. Thierman

$31,250

611 Yardarm Lane

Lift

Sticks and Stones

$26,000

Ventures 1211 GMD #1006

Rewire

Robert Stanley Russell $25,690

573 Spinnaker Lane

A/C change-out

Peter C. Palmieri QPRT

$21,221

611 Yardarm Lane

Dock

Sticks and Stones

$14,400

Ventures 415 L’Ambiance Drive #D805 A/C change-out

James M. Greenleaf

$11,946

3568 Fair Oaks Lane

Dock and pilings

Martin A. Bienstock

$10,969

572 Lyons Lane

Replace heat pump Gregg E. Simmons

535 Sanctuary Drive #B504 A/C change-out

Irmaleen Drees

Revocable Trust

$10,650 $9,646

Source: Town of Longboat Key

348882-1

REAL ESTATE

Lido Key condo sells for $4.8 million

|

27

28

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

RARE

OPPORTUNITY

FOR SALE

Harbour Court Home

HARBOUR COURT is a secluded street of 18 homes directly on the bay. Beautiful 180 degree views of the bay and Sarasota!

Courtesy photo

He’ll never melt It was bound to happen. One nor'easter too many, and now the snowmen are making their way to Longboat Key, too. This one, spotted near Greer Island by Cyndi Seamon, appears content to just lull away the hours on beaches waiting for weather to get back to a more civilized state. But judging by the look of our sandy but tubby friend, perhaps a walk or two on the beach would be in order.

Work with JoDene JoDene Moneuse

AMENITIES:

Realtor ®, Certified Staging Agent

#1 individual agent in units sold for the Mid-Longboat Key office

Large Community Pool, Two Har Tru Tennis Courts, Maintenance Free $1,950,000

31-year Longboat Key resident

941.302.4913

LongboatKeyLiving.com

Five-Star customer service award-winner Sarasota Magazine Rising Star Real estate Agent

Michael Saunders & Company’s “Best of the Best” top performers

HOME SPECS:

3174 Gulf of Mexico Dr | Longboat Key, FL 34228 | 941.383.7591 | michaelsaunders.com

348970-1

Living and Working on Longboat Key for 40 Years Cathy C. Meldahl, P.A. Your Longboat Key Community Realtor

3-bedroom, 3-bathroom, 3252 Square Feet, Partially Furnished including some artwork Hardwood mahogany floors

• 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

2 car garage Large Chef’s Kitchen with high end appliances Butler’s Pantry Two Dishwashers Built in outdoor kitchen/grill

941.724.7228

347516-1

Two gas tankless hot water heaters Washer and Dryer in master bedroom Fire Sprinkler System Fireplace and media room

CathyMeldahl@michaelsaunders.com

Full size dock with kayak launch including two kayaks

Selling Longboat Key and Sarasota

Boat lift can be added Two zone HVAC

Price: $1,950,000 ~ Realtors Welcome To Schedule a showing or more information

call Gregg 941-228-6260.

RELAXED SOPHISTICATION | BRAND NEW

SOLD – TANGERINE BAY

609 The Pearl Pearl 609Golden GoldenGate GatePt, Pt, #201 | The 3BR||3.5BA 3.5BA || 2,750 SF 3BR SF $1,350,000 || MLS# MLS# A4468917 $1,350,000 A4468917 SOLD | $1,312,500 | Represented sellers Under Contract

350 Gulf of of Mexico MexicoDr, Dr,#226 #226 $985,000 Representedsellers sellers $985,000 ||Represented 350 350 Gulf Gulfof ofMexico MexicoDr, Dr,#219 #219 $1,060,000 Representedbuyers buyers $1,060,000 ||Represented 340 340Gulf GulfofofMexico MexicoDr, Dr,#114 #114 $1,190,000 || Represented Representedbuyers buyers

J. D. , RE A LTO R ® , LBK C O M M ISSIO N E R

R E A L E STATE S I M P LY D O N E

941.500.3774

349089-1

349089-1

SherryDominick@michaelsaunders.com SherryDominick.michaelsaunders.com

440 Gulf of Mexico Dr | Longboat Key, FL 34228 345246-1

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

FORECAST

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

|

SUNRISE / SUNSET

FRIDAY, JAN. 8

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, Jan. 7

7:21a 5:52p

High: 67 Don’t worry, Friday, Jan. 8 I T ’ S S MLow: A R T54 S T R A N D. Saturday, Jan. 9 Chance Only SmartStrand® can handle the 747 lbsofofrain: ice cream 5%a family will eat in a carpet’s lifetime.

Sunday, Jan. 10

SATURDAY, JAN. 9 High: 60 Low: 48 Chance of rain: 5%

7:21a

5:53p

Monday, Jan. 11

7:21a

5:55p

Tuesday, Jan. 12

7:21a

5:56p

Wednesday, Jan. 13

7:21a

5:56p

Jan. 20 First

TIDES

Submit your photos at YourObserver.com/Weather. All submissions will be entered for the 2020-21 Weather and Nature photo contest. In February 2021, you will vote for your favorite photo, and the submission with the most votes will win a $500 gift card.

5:53p

MOON PHASES

SUNDAY, JAN. 10

Bonnie Lashin captured this great blue heron in silhouette against a Longboat Key sunset.

7:21a

7:21a 5:54p

Other carpets use stain protection that has to be reapplied. But only SmartStrand’s stain resistance is built right into the fibers. So it never wears or washes out. Even after multiple cleanings. Even better, It’s on sale now!

To learn more about what makes SmartStrand® with DuPont™ Sorona® #1 in customer satisfaction, visit MohawkFlooring.com/SmartStrand.

High: 63 Low: 53 Chance of rain: 5%

29

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

Jan. 28 Full

Feb. 4 Last

Highs

Thursday, Jan. 7

7:17a

6:34p

Friday, Jan. 8

9:18a 7:17p

Feb. 11 New

Lows

1:36a 12:46p 2:53a 1:25p

Saturday, Jan. 9

11:02a 8:03p 4:00a

2:03p

Sunday, Jan. 10

12:26p

2:41p

Monday, Jan. 11

—

Tuesday, Jan. 12

2:06p

8:52p

4:58a

9:41p 5:50a — 10:31p

6:38a

4:14p

Wednesday, Jan. 13 2:31p 11:19p

7:21a

5:11p

A REFLECTION OF NATURE’S BEAUTY CROSSWORD

941.748.4679 | Venice

941.493.7441 | www.manasotaonline.com

SELF-DENIAL by Parker Higgins and Ross Trudeau; Edited by David Steinberg

©2021 Universal Uclick

ACROSS 1 Packed (down) 7 Soothes 12 “The Lion King” role for Beyonce 16 Calif. airport that has fog delays 19 Glacier-hiking tool 20 “Alas and ___!”

21 Remained respectable, as a tweet 23 *Cement made with 2.5% copper 25 Help out, slangily 26 Split-screen TikTok function

27 Old nutritional fig.

28 Pen sound?

29 Prefix with “directional” 30 The “D” in DJ 32 *Theme present 35 Half-___ (coffee order) 38 ___ of personality 40 Cookie with creme 41 Ruby, e.g.

42 Norse war god 44 Perrins’ partner 45 Fellow 47 Official orders 51 *Painfully meshy chaps, perhaps 57 Shoe designer Jimmy

58 Video game sample 59 Run really fast 60 Disco ___ (“The Simpsons” character) 61 Canines, but not felines 62 Lavish love (on) 64 Artist Magritte 65 “Code Switch” network 67 Board presentation VIP 68 *Firmest lights 70 *Amexes used by some Native Americans 74 ___ of iniquity 75 Shoulder assistance org.?

76 Avian chatterbox 77 “Garfield” dog

78 Spanish hero 80 Purr-fect pet?

83 Major work 84 Swirling water 86 “Believe” singer 87 *Romeo’s friend 92 Cherry brandy 94 Touch lightly 95 Before, once 96 D.C. paper 97 Ruckus 98 Speak with a croak 101 “RuPaul’s ___ Race” 103 H.S. equivalency test 104 *They circle a games giant

110 Person you stan for 112 Sunburn balm 113 Tennis match units 114 Attach with a knot 116 Japanese noodle 119 Free period?

121 “Pretend I’m not here” ... and a hint to the two extra letters in each starred clue 124 Hated thing 125 Hunt like a leopard 126 Informal units for chili 127 Sunbeam 128 Reputation, in slang 129 Quaint bathroom sign 130 One may be cut from a cereal container DOWN 1 As late as, briefly 2 Corrosive substance 3 List of dishes 4 Went back and forth?

5 Like some unusual pets 6 Ctrl-Alt-___ 7 INDICATORS OF SHOUTING IN TEXTS 8 Attentive 9 “Thar be the shore!”

10 Former quarterback Steve 11 It’s the limit, they say 12 Murad or Comaneci 13 Ecstasy’s opposite 14 Losses of water or gas 15 They may be blocked online 16 Alabama starting point for civil rights marches 17 One-night stand, e.g.

18 Song such as “My Girl” 22 Rodents in forests 24 Atomic cores 28 Popular “near beer” 31 Mope 33 Lily variety 34 “The Simpsons” neighbor 35 NYSE listings 36 Adderall target, briefly 37 One may twirl torches 39 Text that may discuss yoga 43 Leonard who wrote “I Am Spock” 46 To this point 48 Airport carousel sight 49 Reusable bags

KITCHEN | CABINETRY OUTDOOR PAVERS

50 Fashionable NYC neighborhood 52 “I’m kind of impressed” 53 One into crosswords and “Star Trek,” maybe 54 Plumbers’ vehicles 55 Anger 56 Ahi, for one 61 Merchant 63 End of an ___ 66 Vietnamese comfort food 68 India’s capital territory 69 A pop 70 Error in tihs clue 71 “Get ___” (Chadwick Boseman film) 72 Like some potatoes 73 Black ___ spider 74 Tarot set 76 Bon ___ (witticism) 79 One pursuing tax dodgers 81 “A line around your thoughts,” per Klimt 82 Crowns worn with sashes 85 “Egad!”

87 More discriminating 88 Small squabble 89 Making missteps 90 Librarian’s advice 91 Nonverbal approval 93 Bank offerings, for short 99 Surgical stitch 100 Abolition target for Angela Davis 102 Stop saying “I’m with the band”?

104 Range of awareness 105 Massey of old films (A LION anagram) 106 Emphatic denial 107 ___ fatale 108 Lieu 109 Abbr. on a cereal container 111 Eco-conscious Seuss character 115 Alternatives to watercolors 117 Ernie’s roommate 118 Paintballs, e.g.

120 Cannabis ingredient (Abbr.)

121 Photo file format 122 Snatch 123 Mind reader’s claim, briefly

348029-1

941.355.8437 | Bradenton

*DuPont™ Sorona® contains 37% renewably sourced ingredients by weight. The DuPont Oval logo, DuPont,™ Renewably sourced™ and Sorona® are registered trademarks or trademarks of DuPont or its affiliates and are licensed to Mohawk.

CELEBRITY CIPHER

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

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“TFECVCNB RNL SX TFWWXH FJ VL YDEXX MKEHT -- LXCXE AVCX FJ. YDNY’T YDX DXNEY KI VY EXNBBG. ZFTY UXXJ YEGVLA.” – SXNE AEGBBT “JYVEV’C U HKJ KO FPJVAEFJM DFJY SZCFBFUPC; MKZ EVUHHM CJFHH UCRFEV JK ... TV JYV TVCJ XVECFKP KO MKZECVHO MKZ BUP TV.”

– CYVEMH BEKD Puzzle Two Clue:S equals M

Sarasota

SAVE ON EVERY SPECIES, COLOR AND STYLE!

Puzzle One Clue M equals W

HARDWOOD

© 2021 NEA, Inc.

SUDOKU

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

©2021 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

01-07-21

CLASSIFIEDS

Thursday, January 7, 2021

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 town codes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property.

Items Under $200 For Sale 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 FREE- 18 concrete blocks. Call for details: 941-702-5308.

NEW CLEAN boxspring in plastic $80, Oreck vacuum new $70, Hoover vacuum $40 386-673-6905.

Autos For Sale

REDUCED PRICE! MERCEDES BENZ 1999 For Sale- S500 (stretch) M: 136K; Asking: $5,800 OBO. Great Condition.

Sunroof, Heated Electric Seats, Original W/S with sticker, 4Dr, Original MB hood emblem.

Black Car w/ light grey interior.

Located on Lido Key Cell 315.727.4933. Theresa

Autos Wanted CASH FOR YOUR CAR We come to you!

Ho Ho Buys cars. 941-270-4400.

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

Call Hawley Motors, 941-923-3421.

WE WANT to buy your cars, trucks, & boats.

Suncoast Exotics- (941) 330-1601

Hobbies

FOR SALE: KAYAK; SANTEE 140T 2-seater, lightweight, 5yrs old, seldom used; white and orange with seats, oars, car rack, life vests. $1100.00, call: 616-710-2910.

Storage

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

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

Condos/Apts. For Rent

1BR/2BA LONGBOAT Key Large Master Bedroom, walk in closet. 2 large balconies with panoramic views of Buttonwood Harbor and Sarasota Bay. Beach to Bay complex with heated pool, outdoor grills, fitness center, community kayaks, and covered parking. (647) 298-4991.

Homes For Sale Beach Front Home: 4BED-5BATH, 2CARGAR $3,999,000 University Pool/Spa 4BED-3BATH $425,000

941.955.4888

classifieds.yourobserver.com 2BR/2BA LONGBOAT Key- Seaplace G8-104 First floor with private garden area/screened in lanai.

Fully furnished/recently updated. Wonderful amenities!

Available January-March, two month minimum. $5,000 per month.

941-383-9246 941-685-0911(c) wilfuss@aol.com https://seaplacelbk.nabrnetwork.com/home.php

Homes For Rent

COZY COTTAGE Sandpiper AMI 55+. 1.5 minute walk to the beach or bay, near pool. 1BA/1BR, W/D for sale or rent. Call: 941-251-4767 leave message.

CNA: 20 years experience, with doctor’s recommendations. Available for days, nights, and traveling. COVID tested every two weeks.

941-536-5339.

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “Survival can be summed up in three words -- never give up. That’s the heart of it really. Just keep trying.” Bear Grylls Puzzle Two Solution: “There’s a lot of integrity with musicians; you really still aspire to ... be the best version of yourself you can be.”

– Sheryl Crow

55+ Beach and Boating: One story villa 2BED2BATH $424,000 2.5 Acres: 4BED/3BATH, 3CAR GAR. Luxury kitchen, barn, horses. $645,000 Longboat Key Beach House: on Canal, 3BED3BATH, 2/CARGAR, Dock/Lift. $530,000.

This week’s Sudoku answers

Private Boat Lift: beach access villa/condo $399,000 Sarasota: Built in 2010 4BED-2.5BATH Lakeview Lanai $335,000 Phillipi Gardens: $209,000

INVESTORS 3BED-2BATH

Buy or Sell with Brooke O’Malley as your Realtor, and CLUB REALTY will Pay your title insurance.

Call 941-726-2677

Place Your Ad Quickly 941-955-4888 or classifieds.yourobserver.com

NEED ASSISTANCE? A LENDING HAND HOME CARE - Transportation - Meal Preparation - Light Housekeeping - Personal Care - Dementia Care - Companionship - Medical Reminders Schedule your free in-home consultation today!

941-809-3725 www.alhhomecare.com NR#30211577

©2021 NEA, Inc.

This week’s Crossword answers

Vacation/Seasonal Rentals

BEACH HARBOR Club- Gorgeous penthouse condo with access to beach/boat/pool/fitness.

3BR/2BA, 2 large terraces, sunrise/sunset views. $5500/mo in season.

248-202-6865 or 440-623-9068.

LBK BEACHFRONT condo: 2BR/2BA, first floor walkout. 100% renovated, high-end. Non-smoking, no pets, 1 month minimum rental. Available March 2021. Email for photos/video and more info: lbkcondo000@gmail.com LONGBOAT KEY: Beachfront Condos, 1st or 2nd floor, 2BR/2BA, W/D in units, free Wi-Fi, heated pool, & parking. Call 941-383-3338.

WEEKLY RENTALS. Luxurious, fully furnished 1 - 4 bedrooms. Condominiums and Cottages.

Beach to Bay. On-site management. Pools, tennis, boat slips. Visit: www.FloridaRent.com for information and virtual tours. 800-333-7335, 941-383-3117.

WEEKLY/MONTHLY/SEASONAL RATES Beachfront, Bayfront and In Between Houses or Condos Reservations 941-383-5577 wagnerlbkrentals@gmail.com Visa/MC

IT’S EASY TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD

Adult Care Services

LV9419

INFO & RATES: 941-955-4888 • Fax: 941-362-4808 • EMAIL: classified@yourobserver.com • ONLINE: classifieds.yourobserver.com HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm • DEADLINES: Classifieds - Monday at 2pm • Service Directory - Friday at 3pm • PAYMENT: Cash, Check or Credit Card

5360 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Suite 101

Perfect Solutions For Seniors *Caregivers/Companions * CNA’s/HHA’s

* Assistance with Daily Living Activities * Hourly 24/7 Care - Affordable Rates * Licensed/ Bonded/ Insured

Phone (941) 809-1438 HHA# 299994819

Auto Transport

AIRPORT RIDES to Tampa, St.Pete, Sarasota from surrounding islands. Super ride, super fares. Ride includes mask and gloves. Call/Text Anna: 941-932-1600.

SHIP YOUR car, truck or SUV anywhere in the United States. Great rates, fast quotes. Call Hawley Motors, 941-923-3421.

Cleaning

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

CLAUDIA C. Cleaning Services. Experienced, Dependable and ready to begin! Residential.

Excellent references. 941-773-6895.

Ask about our special rates!

CLEANING BY Brazilian Lady. Meticulous, reliable, deep cleaning specialist. Residential. Commercial.

New Construction. 941-400-2866.

Longboat Key, FL 34228

Wagner Realty Since 1939 www.rentalsonlongboat.com

Home Services

ESTATE MANAGER/HOUSEHOLD MANAGER Olga has ability to manage all of your properties with seamless service standard. As a highly organized and intelligent professional, I will represent your family in the highest manner. I have over 20 years of experience managing household services. PLEASE CONTACT ME FOR MORE INFORMATION AND INQUIRIES. (248) 755-0327. www.olgascleanhouse.com

Explore the

2021

Painting/Wallpapering

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.

Professional Services PERSONAL CHEF/CONCIERGE/CAREGIVING 10+ years experience. Great references. My services are provided with the utmost integrity, punctuality and care. Flexible schedule.

(941) 266-8329. @joyfulgourmet

Classified Ads Bring Results 941-955-4888

Transportation LONGBOAT LIMOUSINE Your local luxury transportation provider since 1994.

New luxury Sedans and SUVs. Fully Licenced and insured.

Call/Text 941-383-1235 E-mail: longboatlimousine@yahoo.com

CLASSIFIEDS for great deals.

Visit classifieds.yourobserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

31

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

|

HOME SERVICES

941.348.1359 TheConcierge.co

DOORS

347956

348233

Like Us on Facebook

DAYANA

ROOFING

INSURANCE

Sliding Glass Door Repair

MIC INSURANCE

“FIX IT - DON’T REPLACE”

Kenneth Fuhlman Inc. Building & Roofing Contractor

EXPERIENCE KNOWLEDGE SOLUTIONS

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

941-626-3194

347739

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

HANDYMAN

Licensed & Insured CCC - 058059 CBC - 1253936 348360

SCREENING

Mike Mailliard ~ Lacey Weaver Allen Hovis Matthew Mailliard ~ Hannah Gamso Chloe Gardner

CONSTRUCTION HANDYMAN 349061

• Home Repairs & Maintenance • Interior & Exterior • Garage Floor Paint • Power Wash

• Pool Cage Restoration • Rescreening Specialists • Specialty Screens • Paint • Doors and more!

Satisfaction guarantee Satisfaction Guarantee Pool cage Restoration/ Rescreening specialists Manufacture and Workmanship Warranties

Home • Condo • Auto • Umbrella • Boat

941-345-5264

specialty screens / screw replacement / paint

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

TREES

Doors and more!

Manufacture and workmanship Warranties

199923

347751

(941) 345-5264

LANDSCAPING & LAWN

348361

HEALTH

IMPROVE YOUR CURB APPEAL!

THE BEST This Doctor is Among

WINDOWS Res./Com.

shadylady_14x16magnet_FN.pdf

“Medical Breakthrough Technology for bulging, herniated and degenerative disc ...

No Pain, No Drugs, No Injections, No Surgery”

1

12/14/16

Lic./Ins.

ndow & Pressure Clea et Wi nin s n wn as Sunrise Win g Su erly kno d

Horticultural Design Services | Landscape Construction Landscape Maintenance | Irrigation Installation & Repair Brick & Stone Pavers | Walls, Gates, Fences | Tree Trimming Low Volt Outdoor Lighting Repair & Installation

SPINAL DECOMPRESSION PHYSICIANS IN AMERICA

Form Serving Longboat Key Since 2005

4:43 PM

25

UP TO

STANDARD WINDOWS

Board Certified in the specialty of non-surgical spinal decompression University Health Park 2415 University Parkway Bldg. 3, Suite 216 Sarasota, FL 34243

OUR BEST PRACTICES PROMISE IS APPLIED TO RESIDENTIAL OR COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE.

Call 941.358.2224 today to schedule a 348359

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

Classified Ads Bring Results • 941-955-4888

Place Your Ad Quickly 941-955-4888 or classifieds.yourobserver.com

INSURANCE

INSURANCE

347752

941.704.9025 ShadyLadyFL.com

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com

ows

120

$

INCLUDING SCREENS, TRACKS, MIRRORS & FANS

FOR MORE INFO

DR. DAVID CIFRA, DC

FREE CONSULTATION

Local And Long Distance Movers Residential Moves Commercial Moves Pack, Crate & Wrap

www.davidmccarthymoving.com

Call a certified HOME WATCH PROFESSIONAL you can trust!

941.778.2882 | 941.387.0607

941.504.2745 941.400.1563

dmccarthymoving@gmail.com

• • • •

348231

Dries in hours - not days.

Serving AMI/LBK/Bradenton Area for 25 years

941-704-4278

347746

SATISFACTION GUARANTEED

GladysKhabbaz@gmail.com 805 Molly Circle, Sarasota

...will move anything from a couch to a household

Lower your home insurance with our GPS stamped reports on every visit.

CARPET CLEANING • TILE • GROUT UPHOLSTERY STAIN • CONTROL

Naji Aoun

David McCarthy Moving

WHO’S WATCHING YOUR HOME & BOAT?

We Are So Thankful for our Customers

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

MOVERS

SPECIAL 00 5

$

senior citizen discount. www.sunsetwindowcleaningsrq.com

Purified water window cleaning available!!

Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES | 941- 284 - 5880

347747

CARPET CLEANING

LV9459

SERVICE DIRECTORY

INSURANCE

SECUR-ALL INSURANCE AGENCY | 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!

WHAT THE CLASSIFIEDS HOLD

TO ADVERTISE TODAY CALL 941-955-4888 OR VISIT CLASSIFIEDS.YOUROBSERVER.COM

349062

Sandra Smith

32

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

ROGER SELLS

LUXURY WATERFRONT PROPERTIES MORE THAN $176 MILLION SOLD IN 2020

5005 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #2

$6,995,000

This brand-new beach home located directly on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico is a rare opportunity to enjoy luxury waterfront living. The custom designed, nearly 5,000 SF layout is spread across two living levels, complemented by high-end finishes and resort-style outdoor entertaining.

1950 HIGH POINT CIRCLE

$1,595,000

Waterfront family living West of the Trail! Built in 2001 by Todd Johnston Homes, this lovely 4BR waterfront residence in High Point Circle offers an ideal central location, within biking distance to the best of the Sarasota lifestyle. Enjoy deep-water dock, lift and easy bay access.

www.BonaireLBK2.com

2675 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #403

$999,999

Beautifully sun-drenched, direct Gulf and evening sunset views are the highlight from every room of this updated beach getaway. You will love the hardwood floors, open concept, new ceiling, spacious bedroom suites and walls of sliders that lead out to the screened terrace.

www.1950HighPointCircle.com

www.Veinte403.com

1301 Main Street #802

1715 Hyde Park Street

100 Sands Point Road #309

2003 Harbour Links Drive

The epitome of downtown living! This 3BR Jewel residence boasts sleek finishes complemented by an open concept that is arranged to perfectly frame magnificent city and bay views at every turn.

You will love the central “West of the Trail” locale of this updated 2,800+ SF home, just minutes from lively downtown Sarasota, with Morton’s Market and Siesta Key Beach within biking distance.

This sunlit, renovated beach getaway features a revamped layout, Marble flooring, custom built-ins, designer bathrooms, plus a newer kitchen overlooking living/dining and pristine beach shores beyond.

This waterfront 3BR villa is ready for you to make it your own, overlooking the 13th green of the Harbourside golf course. You will love the privacy and seclusion at this maintenance-free community.

www.TheJewel802.com

www.1715HydeParkStreet.com

www.SandsPoint309.com

www.2003HarbourLinksDrive.com

$2,395,000

BAYPORT BEACH & TENNIS CLUB

$999,900

CASEY KEY

$849,000

LONGBOAT KEY

$699,000

SARASOTA

843 Bayport Way Turnkey furnished and waiting for you to make it your own!

This updated 2BR beach-to-bay getaway offers new impact windows, new appliances and lush garden views at every turn. www.843BayportWay.com $429,000

BONAIRE 4009 Casey Key Road Breathtaking beach and sunset views welcome you to this lovely 5BR estate. Relish the luxury of walking a few steps from the sunny and open patio to enjoy your own private space on the immaculate shores of the Gulf of Mexico. www.4009CaseyKey.com $4,700,000

5005 Gulf of Mexico Drive #9

LONGBOAT KEY

4725 Gulf of Mexico Drive #208 Sand Cay is a wonderful beach community, boasting excellent rental options, with an on-site rental management program and the choice to lease weekly. www.SandCay208.com $479,000

SARASOTA

1300 Benjamin Franklin Drive #907 Striking views perfectly complement an exclusive Ritz-Carlton lifestyle at this 9th-floor getaway. The spacious interior is spread across 3,000+ SF, offering walls of glass that open to wraparound and guest terraces, plus two private parking spaces. www.BeachResidences907.com $2,750,000

Brand-new, turnkey furnished beach home! This elevated 4BR home was completed in 2019. The gorgeous coastal contemporary interior features a custom layout highlighted by high-end, chic finishes. www.BonaireLBK9.com $3,595,000

128 Golden Gate Point #601B Sweeping bay and city views are the perfect introduction to this bayfront residence within walking distance to downtown.

You will enjoy no shortage of privacy as the only residence on the 6th floor, offering 3,000 SF of living space and sunset vistas as the perfect ending to your day. www.VistaBayPoint601B.com $1,295,000

SIESTA KEY

CASEY KEY 1241 Gulf of Mexico Drive #505

1588 North Casey Key Road

7149 Longboat Drive North - Long Beach

Recent 2017 renovations at this private waterfront home This secluded and exquisite beach-to-bay estate is perfectly include new metal roof, HardiPlank siding, impact windows/ situated on almost three-acres, on the gated Gulf shores of sliders and an open coastal contemporary 3BR plus bonus Casey Key. Wonderfully updated and partially rebuilt, offering a room layout complemented by beach-inspired updates.

4BR main residence with a beautiful, separate 2BR guest house. www.7149LongboatDriveNorth.com $1,195,000 www1588NorthCaseyKey.com $10,500,000

3975 Shell Road - North Lot

11 Sunset Drive #707 Seventh floor living at Sunset Towers is highlighted by panoramic views of downtown, the Bay, Marina and the Gulf of Mexico. From sunrise to sunset, there is no shortage of breathtaking vistas to enjoy at this 2BR residence. www.SunsetTowers707.com $595,000

CALL TODAY FOR YOUR EXCLUSIVE TOUR (941) 387-1840

Begin your dream home today on this direct Gulf-front lot overlooking Siesta Key shores! Offering more than an acre of beachfront property, with nearly 133’ of Gulf frontage, this estate-sized parcel in a prime location. Fall in love with the proximity to the best that this city offers only minutes away.

This is an abundant community with nearby parks, family activities and enviable school districts. An historic four-bedroom pool home currently rests on the property, waiting for you to start a renovation project or embark on a brand-new build. www.3975ShellRoad.com $4,500,000

443F John Ringling Boulevard | Sarasota, FL 34236 | Roger@Pettingell.com www.Longboatrealestate.com | www.bestSarasotarealestate.net Twitter.com/RealRoger | Instagram.com/RogerPettingell Owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC

348284-1

Direct vistas of Gulf waves, powdery shores and sunny southern panoramas welcome you to this 5th-floor Cambridge residence. Stylishly laid out, the lovely features found throughout only enhance this home’s appeal. www.WaterClubSouth505.com $1,495,000

. . . t i a W But

S â&#x20AC;&#x2122; E R THE !

E R MO

XNLV19038

Flip the page for more sales and specials!

Est. 1987

Cosmetics, Implants and Bite Reconstruction Actual Patients

Smile Makeovers and Veneers

Before

After

Before

After

Dental Implant Surgery and Reconstruction

Before

After

Before

After

On-Site Laboratory with Master Technicians to Customize and Control Results

Implant Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry

• Digitally Guided Implant Surgery

• Conservative ‘No Prep’ Veneers

• On-Site Cat Scan

• Nonsurgical Facelifts

• PRP and PRF Blood Enhancers

• Bite Correction

• Sedation

• Bruxism Treatment

• Bone Grafts and Sinus Lifts

• Lumineers®

• Zirconia and Titanium Implants

• Sedation

(941) 999-3205 | SarasotaDentist.com 3951 Swift Rd., Sarasota, FL 34231 348526-11

Our team at World Class Dentistry treats patients with a multitude of concerns which streamlines treatment and maintains quality control. The doctors along with their master dental technicians and on-site laboratory offer complete cosmetic and implant solutions.

We have been serving the Sarasota area since 1987. Call today for a consultation to begin your life-changing transformation.

Jill Morris, DMD • Accredited Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (only 550 accredited dentists worldwide) • Fellow of the American Academy of Dental Facial Esthetics • Post Doctoral Instructor of Full Mouth Reconstruction • Member International Academy of Oral Biological Dentistry and Toxicology • Practicing dentistry for 33 years

Burr Bakke, DDS

Cameron Johnson, DMD

• Fellow of the American Dental Implant Association

• Member of American Dental Association

• Fellow of International Congress of Oral Implantologists

• Member of Florida Dental Association

• Fellow of the American Academy of Dental Facial Esthetics

• Member of West Coast Dental Association

• Member of American Academy of Implant Dentistry

• Member of American Academy of Implant Dentistry

• Post Doctoral Instructor of Full Mouth Reconstruction

• Member of International Congress of Oral Implantologists

Advanced Care and Dental Technology at One Location Stay Connected With Us

(941) 999-3205 | 3951 Swift Rd., Sarasota, FL 34231

December 31st and January 7th, 2021

Happy & Healthy New Year to You and Your Family

D ê k u j i Dio lch i chi Gra c ia s M erc i Takk ευχαρισ τώ D a n k e G ra zie K öszönöm D a k u je m ‫ ה ָ ד ֹות‬Tac k H v a l a vam A sheynem dank D z ie k u je D ank u wel K iit os Teşekkür ederi m спа с иб о Pal di es X ie x ie A rig a t o u N a y ā m̐ barṣakō śubhakām anā

Thank You

For Another Wonderful Year

We sincerely hope that it was an exceptional holiday for you and your family, and as always, we thank you for being part of our success. Judy Kepecz-Hays & Team

Gabe Buky 941.228.6086

Lori Lawson 941.735.4385

Judy Kepecz-Hays Steven Kepecz 941.376.6411 941.587.1700

#1 TEAM

Over $183 Million SOLD & PENDING in 2020 $123+ Million CLOSED and $60+ Million PENDING SALES

LARGE

Charles Buky 941.228.6086

Email: Kepecz@JudyHays.com | Website: www.LongboatKeyLuxury.com

Coldwell Banker Realty | 423 St. Armands Circle | Sarasota, FL 34236

CAREER SALES OF OVER $2.2 BILLION

348525-1

Karen Lyons Nowadly Assistant

e

hous Pent

S

941

770 S Palm Ave #1203 | Embassy House $829,000 | MLS A4485426 30 feet of walls of glass with vistas of Sarasota Bay, Her Islands, and sunsets into the Gulf of Mexico. Completely remodeled to perfection. 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, ready for instant enjoyment.

770SoPalm1203.com

1111 Ritz-Carlton Drive #1006 $995,000 | MLS A4143524 Enjoy picturesque views of Sarasota Bay & Her Islands. Elegant 1 BR, 1.5 bath residence with high ceilings in the coveted Ritz-Carlton w/5-star amenities in the heart of the City.

Ritz-Carlton1006.com

50 Central Ave Penthouse 16 South Plaza At Five Points $2,499,000 | MLS A4454416 Magnificent and breathtaking views from each and every room in this open design plan with 4,000 sq. ft. Walls of glass to view all of Sarasota & Her Islands. Endless amenities and upgrades in this 3 bedroom plus den. 3 parking spaces.

PlazaAtFivePoints16G.com

7107 Hawks Harbor Circle | Hawks Harbor $699,900 | MLS A4458161 This 3 bed/3 bath home resides in the gated enclave of Hawks Harbor with a deeded boat slip on a double lot. Immaculately kept w/stunning hardwood floors, updated kitchen and cozy wood burning fireplace. Mature lush landscaping located close to all Sarasota has to offer!

7107HawksHarborCircle.com

ď&#x192;&#x2021; 916 N Casey Key Road | Beach to Bay $4,975,000 | MLS A4408082 Private Gulf to Bay estate w/main pool home & 2 guest cottages on 1.5 acres. 200 ft. of private beachfront to enjoy year round sunsets.

Dock w/lift on Bay side of home.

916NCaseyKeyRoad.com

3456 Mistletoe Lane | Corey's Landing $1,595,000 | MLS A4478403 Sarasota Bay is your backyard with endless views! Modern elegant and almost new 3 bedrooms plus den w/loft, 3 bath, over 2,700 sq. ft. Few features include a dock, new roof, new hurricane windows and doors. Deeded Beach Access.

3456Mistletoe.com

1300 $4,00 TheB

1300 $4,25 TheB

Kepecz-Hays & Buky A Family Group of RealtorsÂŽ

$2.2 BILLION IN CAREER SALES

Steven Kepecz

941.387.1825

Judy Kepecz-Hays

941.587.1700

Email: Kepecz@JudyHays.com | Website: www.LongboatKeyLuxury.com

Coldwell Banker Realty | 423 St. Armands Circle | Sarasota, FL 34236 03 ce 6

den Resi

Ritz-Carlton Managed

in ll of 3

06 ce 6

en esid

R

nce

de Resi

708

ept

ant 0 sq. ws

ouse enth

8

120

P

1300 Benjamin Franklin Drive #PH1208 $4,000,000 | MLS A4448354 TheBeachResidences1208.com 1300 Benjamin Franklin Drive #603 $4,250,000 | MLS A4481385 TheBeachResidences603.com

1300 Benjamin Franklin Drive #708 $2,400,000 | MLS A4471978 TheBeachResidences708.com

1300 Benjamin Franklin Drive #606 $2,675,000 | MLS A4445110 TheBeachResidences606.com Amenities: over 400 ft. of Gulf frontage,guest suites, 2 pets-no weight limit! Dedicated staff & legendary resort-style amenities.

Kepecz-Hays & Buky A Family Group of Realtors®

$2.2 BILLION IN CAREER SALES Email: Kepecz@JudyHays.com | Website: www.LongboatKeyLuxury.com

Judy Kepecz-Hays

941.587.1700

Steven Kepecz 941.376.6411

Charles Buky 941.228.6086

1050 Longboat Club Road #304 | Privateer $799,000 | MLS A4485457 Indulge in luxury and privacy in this completely updated residence on the beach within the gates of The Longboat Key Club, Islandside. 2/2, 1,409 sq. ft.

1050LongboatClub304.com

1050 Longboat Club Road #704 | Privateer $925,000 | MLS A4485456 Better than NEW! Panoramic views of the spectacular beach, city skyline, SRQ Bay, and the mainland! It looks close enough to touch! 2/2, 1,409 sq. ft.

1050LongboatClub704.com

Gabe Buky 941.228.6086

Privateer North has every amenity. A newly updated club room with catering kitchen, a wellequipped fitness room with saunas, heated Olympic sized pool and spa, tennis and pickleball courts, shuffleboard, BBQ grill, and a new gas fire pit where residents gather. The beautiful lobby and common areas include the onsite office with helpful management staff. Not to be missed, there is storage and FREE laundry on every floor. Don’t miss this opportunity, a must-see!

I N G ppen!

D N PE t ha ei

d I ma

Lori Lawson 941.735.4385 LARGE

#1 TEAM

OVER $123 MILLION SOLD & CLOSED AND OVER $60 MILLION PENDING IN 2020 Office: 941.387.1825 Kepecz@JudyHays.com LongboatKeyLuxury.com

775 Longboat Club Road #207 | The Beaches $1,100,000 | MLS A4460803 | Furnished Luxury & leisure found at The Beaches! This almost new corner residence is offered turn-key furnished, designer extraordinaire casual elegance.

This enclave is directly located on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico. 3 bedroom, 3 bath en-suite.

TheBeaches207.com Call Lori Lawson at 941.735.4385

1281 Gulf of Mexico Drive #1007 | Water Club $2,875,000 | MLS A4448214 Enjoy panoramic views of the bay, Sarasota skyline and the Gulf of Mexico. Luxurious living on the beach. Enjoy year round exploding sunrises & moonrises from this 3 bedroom plus den/3.5 bath residence. 2 pets welcome, 2 parking spaces.

WaterClub1007.com

Coldwell Banker Realty 423 St. Armands Circle Sarasota, FL 34236