Longboat Observer 12.24.20

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Observer Longboat Key’s weekly newspaper since 1978

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

VOLUME 43, NO. 20

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A circus of a holiday.

PAGE 28

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

READY TO RESPOND Town’s new ladder truck is a versatile life-saver. PAGE 3

Courtesy photo

And to all a good night It’s almost time for a visit from St. Nicholas to sunny Longboat Key, and resident Cyndi Seamon captured the tropical glow of Christmas on the island with a recent sunset framed by twinkling ornaments.

The icicle on her tree might be the closest Longboat ever gets to a frosty Christmas, but we’ll take beach sunsets over an icy winter’s nap anytime.

Eric Garwood Nat Kaemmerer

The town put its new ladder truck on display near Town Hall last week, but it’s already responding to calls.

Painting by Truman Adams

Open-air Christmas Eager to still use outdoor space to spread Christmas cheer, St. Armands Circle Lutheran Church set up lights and decorations in its meditation garden.

Local artist Truman Adams, who also did a mosaic wall at Church of the Redeemer in downtown Sarasota, provided two paintings for the garden.

The church still brought out its decorations to create a scene around Adams’ art.

“We thought we would just try to do something different,” church member Christine Ortiz said. “We have a lot of decorations, so we thought we could set up scenes, so people could walk through the garden, and it would be pretty and peaceful. It came out pretty good for the first year.”

NEIGHBORS

Courtesy photo

Reverend gets to know his parish.

PAGE 18

Holiday traditions in 2020 Although travel plans and visits might change this year, the cheerful sentiments remain. SEE PAGES 6-11

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

Report blames underground log in sewage spill About 14.7 million gallons of untreated sewage spilled between June 17-30.

MARK BERGIN STAFF WRITER

T

he contractor hired by Longboat Key has determined that a buried log rubbing for decades against the underground pipeline likely initiated corrosion that led to June’s sewage break in mainland Manatee County.

Last week, the town released the 596-page report by Berkeley Research Group on the break.

The report indicates that once excavation workers were at the scene of the spill, about 350 feet from the Sarasota Bay shoreline June 30, pumps cleared standing water from around the pipe, allowing a clear view of the break.

“The pumps were able to expose the damaged section of pipe to the point that I observed a log or root lying perpendicular [across] at a slight angle under the damaged section,” the report quotes an eyewitness as reporting.

“The log was approximately 6 to 8 [inches] around and stretched

beyond the width of the pipe.

Water was pouring out at the approximate position of the log or root.”

The report postulates that for years after construction, the log or root “was acting as a fulcrum under the pipe” and “likely abraded the exterior pipe coating, inducing corrosion.”

“Given the excessively corroded pipe wall condition at the breach location, it is likely that the pipe experienced a force, such as a surge or purge pressure, that instantly caused the weakened pipe section to break.

In that instant, the pipe crushed down onto the log, which partially blocked the opening,” the report says, adding that the shape of the hole matched the shape of the log.

The report also states the break took place in a section of pipe half an inch thick and that corrosion in the years since its installation had degraded the thickness by half.

The report says the root or log likely began wearing away at the pipe beginning shortly after installation, but not to the point to precipitate corrosion until about 18 years ago.

In a previous report, BRG estimated the final leak spilled about 14.7 million gallons between June 17-30. The town forwarded a copy of BRG’s report to the

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Left: The breach was in the bottom invert of the pipe.

Below: The hole in the pipe matched the shape and size of the root or log found alongside.

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Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Longboat Key staff asked the state to use BRG’s estimate in its proposed consent order worksheet.

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The state estimated about 17 million gallons of sewage spilled.

In August, third-party contractor Environmental Science Associates finished its water-sample

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testing in the Sarasota Bay waters after the sewage break, determining that the environmental effect was low.

The FDEP is seeking $242,653 in civil penalties for the break under a proposed consent order.

The town can also choose to offset the amount by implementing an in-kind penalty project, subject to FDEP approval.

Town commissioners have until Jan. 22 to decide what to do with the proposed consent order. Town Attorney Maggie Mooney has requested for commissioners and attorneys to hold a private meeting on the morning of Jan. 5, 2021, to come to a decision.

BRG retained the engineering firm Venture Engineering and Construction for modeling the leak volume.

Greeley and Hansen’s report on Aug. 14, 2017, marked the last inspection on the pipe. The force main was built in 1973.

At that time, the pipe was given years of estimated life remaining.

Longboat Key is in the process of advancing its redundant pipe project, which has an estimated cost of $16 million.

The project would first duplicate the pipeline on the mainland side and eventually duplicate the underwater portion, which runs from Longboat Key, under the bed of Sarasota Bay and emerging in mainland Manatee County on the way to the treatment plant.

After collecting sewage from the town’s system, smaller pipes converge at a pumping station on Gulf Bay Road.

From there, the town’s untreated sewage flows through a 20-inch diameter iron pipe under the bed of Sarasota Bay. It terminates at a treatment facility north of Conquistador Parkway in Bradenton.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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BY THE NUMBERS

DIMENSIONS ■ Length: 41 feet, 3½ inches ■ Width: 8 feet, 2 inches ■ Height: 10 feet, ¾ inches (A 2020 Toyota Camry is 16 feet long and 6 feet wide)

3

Eric Garwood

A STEP UP New, more maneuverable ladder truck can do many jobs, respond to many different emergencies.

STAFF WRITER

ENGINE The diesel-fueled Cummins L9 develops 450 horsepower and 1,300 pound-feet of torque from 8.9 liters of displacement.

(A 2.5-liter, four-cylinder Toyota Camry engine develops 202 horsepower — in “sport” mode” — and 182 pound-feet of torque.)

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

While technically a ladder truck, the new addition to the Longboat Key Fire Rescue Department carries equipment to perform any role.

MARK BERGIN

FIREFIGHTING EQUIPMENT ■ Water tank capacity: 500 gallons ■ Foam cell capacity: 30 gallons ■ Pump capacity: 1,800 gallons per minute (enough to drain your backyard pool in less than 10 minutes) ■ Cab capacity: Four-door cab seats four fully outfitted firefighters ■ Ladder: 85 feet fully extended ■ Generators: Two Hondapowered generators for use on emergency scenes

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T

he town’s new ladder truck might look like a specialized piece of firefighting equipment, but it can actually do almost everything a smaller truck can do.

Longboat Key Fire Rescue Deputy Chief Chris Krajic served as the department’s lead in purchasing the $850,000 truck.

“The truck is designed to respond to any types of calls that we will encounter here on Longboat Key,” Krajic said. “This truck will be completely equipped for advanced life support. It will respond to structure fires, vehicle fires, elevator rescues, you name it. This truck is designed to meet the needs of whatever kind of call it’s going to be dispatched to.”

The town is planning to have a public dedication ceremony for the new truck Jan. 4 at the northend fire station, 5490 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Eventually, the new truck will be at the town’s newly rebuilt south-end fire station at 2162 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Construction is ongoing at the southend fire station.

The new truck replaces the town’s 2003 model.

“The life span on fire trucks is anywhere between 10 and 15 years depending on how they’re used and the millage and the hours and things like that on them,” Krajic said. “Obviously, with that one, it was exceeding the 15-year mark, and it was time to replace it.”

Town Manager Tom Harmer tries out the electrically powered Jaws of Life while firefighter/paramedic Jay Gosnell offers some pointers.

DEDICATION

The town will hold a ceremony Jan. 4, officially putting the truck into service.

Longboat Key will have a firetruck at each fire station and three total ambulances. The new truck features a mid-mount, 75-foot ladder. The design allows the new truck to be more maneuverable.

“I guess the coolest thing in this truck is this is truly a custom-built truck for Longboat Key, where the others we had weren’t,” Krajic said. “They were like a cookiecutter type of vehicle. This one, we actually built this one from the ground up.”

Krajic said the town considered purchasing trucks with a ladder

that could reach up to 100 feet in the air. However, Krajic said the town didn’t feel it would be a good fit because of the need to stay within budget.

Dublin, Ohio-based Sutphen Corp. manufactured the truck.

The company has built fire apparatus for 130 years. The town’s SL 75 aerial ladder truck was built in Hilliard, Ohio, in one of the company’s six factories. It was finished in mid-October.

The town budgeted $850,000 for a new truck in fiscal year 2020.

“We have to obviously stay within those budgetary guidelines. So we look at some of the manufacturers that make firetrucks, and one of things that we were real concerned with is availability of the manufacturers for the trucks themselves and for service after the sale because if they tell you, ‘My truck never breaks,’ they’re lying to you because everything breaks,” Krajic said.

Before the truck is put into full-time service in January, each first responder must undergo an Emergency Vehicle Operations Course, working with the new ladder and gear to get used to the new levers. Krajic estimated it would take each person between 10-12 hours to complete the training.

Harmer said the town was planning to put together a short video to highlight the new truck’s features.

Krajic is retiring Jan. 13, nine days after the new fire truck gets put into use.

“We kind of planned it that way,” Krajic said. “It was part of the thing when we put this all together was that, ‘Listen, I’m going to be retiring at the end of the year, and I would like to see this truck that we’ve put a lot of time and effort into before I leave.’”

“This truck will be completely equipped for advanced life support. It will respond to structure fires, vehicle fires, elevator rescues, you name it.

This truck is designed to meet the needs of whatever kind of call it’s going to be dispatched to.”

– Deputy Chief Chris Krajic

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

T H F EB O E |

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

L

Town leaders expect to hear official proposals for Chiles property plan in February.

$2,500 in monthly rent since August 2018 for the cottages to sit where they do now, society President Michael Drake has said.

OTHER ISSUES FOR 2021

MARK BERGIN

Above: The Longboat Key Historical Society accepted bids until Nov. 11 on the larger L-shaped cottage.

Right: The smaller cottage will be relocated to the proposed Town Center site.

File photos

The town knows where two historical cottages are bound, but the specific timing and authorizations on when they’ll get moved is still a work in progress.

Planning, Zoning and Building Director Allen Parsons updated Planning and Zoning Board members recently about plans to relocate the cottages in 2021.

“The smaller of the two [cottages] is going into the Town Center,” Parsons said. “That won’t come before this board immediately. There likely will be an update to the planned unit development for the Town Center property, but that’s not coming in the immediate future.”

Parsons estimated the P&Z Board would receive a site development plan amendment for its consideration by February 2021 to move the larger L-shaped cottage to 6920 Gulf of Mexico Drive just north of Whitney Plaza. The Chiles Group, which owns Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant, purchased the larger cottage.

Initially, the Chiles Group planned to build a 98-spot parking lot and 300-square-foot satellite office on its land near Broadway and Gulf of Mexico Drive, a project approved about a year ago. If

The board will swear in new member Gary Coffin in January.

the P&Z Board approves the plan amendment, the historic cottage would replace the proposed 300-square-foot building. The cottage, which is not built with plumbing or electrical service, will require a renovation to serve its function.

The smaller cottage is set to move to the northeast part of the Town Center site as the land’s first structure. The two cottages currently sit at 521 Broadway St. and are being moved because the landowner wants to sell the property. They were moved there in 2017 after a developer purchased from Ringling College of Art and Design the site of the nowdefunct Longboat Key Center for the Arts, on Longboat Drive.

In November, Chiles Group CEO Chuck Wolfe said the Historical Society must move the smaller cottage before his company can move the larger one.

The Historical Society has paid

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Parsons previewed a few other things before the P&Z Board in 2021.

In January, the P&Z Board is set to swear in Gary Coffin to fill a vacancy. Coffin takes over for Ken Marsh, who resigned in October.

In March, the Town Commission will need to appoint two new members to the P&Z Board. Current P&Z board members Penny Gold and Debra Williams are considered commissioners-elect until they are sworn into the commission at the statutory meeting March 22, 2021.

In January, Parsons said the P&Z Board will consider a site development plan for Harry’s Continental Kitchens.

In November, the P&Z Board granted Harry’s a special exception. The restaurant is planning to expand its dining area and increase its number of parking spaces.

Parsons estimated that by February 2021, the P&Z Board would consider a proposal from the Columbia Restaurant Group about the Buccaneer restaurant.

According to Parsons, the Planning, Zoning and Building Department is also planning to update its comprehensive plan and undergoing an evaluation and appraisals next year.

The P&Z Board’s first meeting in the new year is scheduled for Jan. 21, 2021.

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P

Cottage-move details in the works

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

MARK BERGIN

BY THE NUMBERS

STAFF WRITER

C

Nat Kaemmerer

A baby turtle that hatched in the summer was held in a bucket overnight, so it could go out in the dark and have a better chance against predators.

Town proposes new rules for sea turtles Commission could have the first reading of a proposed ordinance as soon as Feb. 1.

hanges to the town’s sea turtle protection rules could be on the way, designed to reduce disorientation.

Planning, Zoning and Building Director Allen Parsons led a virtual workshop for residents and stakeholders last week, outlining the proposals.

Parsons said that the town has worked with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, Sea Turtle Conservancy and Longboat Key Turtle Watch on the recommendations.

The town’s sea turtle protection requirements go into effect each year during nesting season from May 1 through Oct. 31.

“It has an overall intent to protect the nesting females and hatchlings along the beach in the town,” Parsons said of the town’s current rules.

Adjusting the lighting standards of new or existing developments are among the proposed changes. Town staff is recommending the change to the percentage amount of light that is allowed to be transmitted from 45% to a recommended value of 15%. If implemented, the change would apply to new construction or replacement windows.

“From what we’ve heard from the installations, the percentage of window tinting doesn’t cost any more than the 45% window tinting,” Parsons said. “There are other benefits, such as energy conservation.”

A beachfront, single-family homeowner who participated in the meeting disputed Parsons’

LONGBOAT KEY ■ Turtle nests: 4,748 ■ Disorientation rate: 14% LIDO KEY ■ Turtle nests: 542 ■ Disorientation rate: 11% SIESTA KEY ■ Turtle nests: 2,158 ■ Disorientation rate: 7% CASEY KEY ■ Turtle nests: 6,876 ■ Disorientation rate: 1% VENICE ■ Turtle nests: 2,158 ■ Disorientation rate: 12%

claim that window tinting would cost the same amount as regular windows. She said it was more expensive.

Parsons said town staff would follow up to verify if there would be any additional costs for the tinted windows before the Town Commission considers any kind of ordinance.

Longboat Key Turtle Watch Vice President Cyndi Seamon spoke about the new tinted glass her beachfront condominium installed a few years back.

“We’ve had plenty of people come into our condo in daytime and nighttime, and no one has commented how dark it is,” Seamon said.

The town also wants to make the use of turtle-friendly exterior light bulbs mandatory for residences and businesses.

The reason for the proposed changes is because of Longboat

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

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Key’s high number of turtle disorientations. Since 2017, the town has had 487 turtle disorientations.

During that time span, Longboat Key’s total disorientations are the second-highest number among Florida municipalities.

Disorientation happens when artificial lighting disrupts the ability of adult sea turtles or hatchlings to find their way to nesting sites or back to the surf.

“Both adult turtles and hatchlings have an inborn tendency to move in the brightest direction, so they instinctively crawl away from darker dunes and vegetation toward the bright open horizon of the ocean,” Parsons said. “So any kind of lighting is what the sea turtles are generally trying to orient themselves towards.”

Longboat Key’s disorientation rate is higher than nearby areas.

Parsons said he wasn’t exactly sure why Longboat Key’s rates are higher but said there are a combination of factors.

“From the research that we’ve done, there’s nothing absolutely clear about that,” Parsons said of the town’s high rates.

“Comparing how low the disorientation rates are on Casey Key, which also has an awful lot of sea turtle nests over the past four years, maybe [it’s] something just with the general ambient light in the area, but that’s a great question.”

Before any changes can take effect, the Town Commission would need to approve an ordinance at a first and second reading.

Parsons said the first reading of an ordinance could come before the commission as soon as its Feb. 1 meeting.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

Holidays past and present No holiday season has ever quite been like 2020, and many hope there’s never another one.

CHRIS AND TAMMY SACHS

NAT KAEMMERER AND MARK BERGIN | STAFF WRITERS

I

t seems the world has squeezed out every way of saying 2020 will

bring a new set of holiday trials and traditions. You don’t need us to come up with another pithy phrase to say it again. It’s going to be weird. It’s going to be different. But we’re going to get through it and return to long-held and briefly interrupted Christmas and Hanukkah traditions once more. This year, your neighbors reminisced on holidays past and plans for holidays present, with an ever-hopeful eye toward holidays future.

SCOTT WUESTHOFF CAROL ERKER Every Christmas since we moved to Longboat Key from the Chicago area in 2014, we have packed our cold-weather clothes and snow boots and headed north to spend the holidays with family and friends. Last year was very special as we got to greet our newest grandchild, Penny, who was born on Dec. 15, 2019.

Now she is crawling and standing and babbling as she celebrates her first birthday, but we have determined that it is not safe for us to travel to be with her for her birthday and the holidays.

As much as we enjoy our visits with her over WhatsApp, it just can’t compare with being there to hold her chubby little hands and hear her laughter in person. We will have a quiet holiday here, probably just the two of us — a big change from past years.

Courtesy photos

Bob and Carol Erker with their granddaughter, Penny, in 2019

My kids alternate between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Christmas Eve is devoted to Christ and attending service at All Angels Episcopal Church followed by a family dinner. Christmas Day starts with opening presents, followed by a homemade brunch and then stocking presents. The rest of the day is generally very relaxing and may include friends dropping by. The kids were here for Thanksgiving this year, and I do miss them when they’re not present. There is nothing more dear than family.

We are very sensitive to those whose holiday plans have been turned upside down and expect to invite them for a Christmas Day Open House. The goal is to ensure no one experiences such a magnificent day alone.

Christmas changed for us when we moved to Florida from Connecticut in 2017. Holidays up north invariably involved snow and skiing. Holidays here in paradise involve sand and water skiing — in theory anyway, though I confess I have actually not water skied yet. Our first three Christmases involved family dispersed throughout the country finding their way to the Gulf Coast for a welcome respite from nor’easters and black ice. But COVID-19 has changed all that. Like everything else, Christmas 2020 will be virtual. We’ll certainly miss the physical presence of our kids. It will be a quieter and more reflective holiday.

Given the current climate, perhaps that’s a good thing.

Chris and Tammy Sachs during a cold Christmas past

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

GAIL LOEFGREN

MIKE AND NICKI BERGIN

A normal holiday season for my family is church on Christmas Eve with my daughter, her husband and the three grandboys.

Then on Christmas Day, there’s a family gathering for 13 of us with turkey and all the trimmings. As soon as dinner is over, presents are opened.

Everyone looks forward to emptying the stockings as my big present is always at the bottom of each stocking. I for sure will be attending the Christmas Eve candlelight service online. The events on Christmas Day will be dictated by COVID-19 and whether it will be safe to gather. Our decision is not even about traveling as all 13 of us are in Bradenton.

On Christmas Eve what I will miss the most if I feel uncomfortable is attending church in person and the shared experience.

And on Christmas Day, if we are not able to all be in the same house, in the same room, what I will miss the most is the look on the grandkids’ faces when they open their presents. But I want all of my family to be safe and stay healthy, so we may all be together at holiday time in 2021.

About a month ago, we got flooded out from Tropical Storm Eta. Next morning while cleaning up in our condo, Nicki slipped on the wet floor tiles in our living room and fell very badly on her hip. We called 911 to take her to Sarasota Memorial Hospital. After tests, it was determined to be nothing more serious than a bad contusion.

She came out after six days to rehab at home only to be told within 24 hours that they needed to pretty much demolish our condo internally along with our four neighboring condos, and the rebuilding will take approximately three months due to storm surge. So our condo has literally been demolished. The silver lining is our neighbor is not coming down at all for the season and has lent us his condo indefinitely as he cannot visit his season because he lives in Canada.

Nicki and I have been overwhelmed with the daily outpouring of kindness and thoughtfulness and generosity by all in “Our Twin Shores Family.” The constant flow of visitors to our front porch to check in on us (especially Nicki) daily has been emotionally amazing. We are all truly blessed to live among such kind-hearted people.

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Mike and Nicki Bergin are still dealing with flooding from Tropical Storm Eta at their Twin Shores home.

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OPINION / OUR VIEW

8

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

A TIME TO KEEP PERSPECTIVE

LONGBOAT

FOR UNTO YOU IS BORN THIS DAY

MATT WALSH

I

n this season to be jolly, it is, by golly, hard to be jolly.

And if you’re not all that jolly, when you think of what you, your family, your friends, your business and your work colleagues have endured in this trying year, perhaps we should put it in perspective — keep our perspective on what this season is really all about.

Compare, for instance, our lives today to those of Mary and Joseph in the year 4 A.D. We all know what happened on Christmas — as St. Luke masterfully wrote in his Gospel (see box). But having some of the context that led up to that holy, remarkable day adds to its richness.

In truth, Jesus’ birth is a story for Jews and Christians alike. After all, Jesus’ parents, Mary and Joseph, were Jews. And the setting for this momentous, monumental event was in the heart of the land that God promised to Abraham and Moses: Israel.

The main characters leading up to Jesus’ birth — Mary; Joseph; Mary’s cousin, Elizabeth; and her husband, Zacharias — were anything but celebrities in their day. They were as common as Iowa farmers. And yet, in reality, Mary and Joseph were indeed connected to royalty. Biblical scholars tell us they actually were both descendants from the lineage of King David, the longtime king of Israel.

But at that time — around 4 B.C. — the Jews of Judea (central Israel) were anything but a privileged, royal class.

They were living under the rule of Caesar Augustus and his vast Roman empire and under a maniac ruler, King Herod, an Arab-Jew who was a client king for Caesar Augustus.

Imagine life under Herod. The biblical historian Josephus wrote that “Herod inflicted such outrages upon the Jews as not even a beast could have done if it possessed the power to rule over men.” So vile and monstrous, Herod became infamous for murdering his wife, three of his own sons, his father-in-law, his brother-in-law and 300 of his military leaders.

On top of this, and even though Herod allowed Jews to practice their religion without much interference, the Jews also had to contend with the Samaritans, half-Jew, half-Gentile who lived between Judea and Galilee.

“The enmity between Jew and Samaritan was so intense” wrote biblical historian James Edward Talmadge, “that travelers between Judea and Galilee would make long detours rather than pass through Samaria.”

This is what Mary and Joseph faced when they received word of Caesar Augustus’ order for a census. He demanded that everyone register in his hometown. For Mary and Joseph, this meant traveling from Nazareth in Galilee in the north to Bethlehem in Judea in the south — an 80-mile, four-day journey that would have taken them right through Samaria.

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.

(And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)

And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, (because he was of the house and lineage of David) to be taxed with Mary, his espoused wife, being great with child.

And so it was, that while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

And she brought forth her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn.

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them, and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a savior, which is Christ the Lord.

And this shall be a sign unto you. Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.”

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on Earth peace, good will toward men.”

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, “Let us now go even unto Bethlehem and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.”

And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph and the babe lying in a manger.

— St. Luke, 2:1-16, King James Bible

And let’s not forget: Mary was nine months pregnant.

In his gospel on the birth of Christ, St. Luke was sparing on the details of Mary and Joseph’s trip. The fact there are few details must mean it was mostly uneventful. But you could imagine it otherwise: Any woman in her ninth month of pregnancy is physically miserable — can’t sit for long stretches, can’t sleep, constant heartburn, hemorrhoids. So imagine Mary and Joseph traveling in a caravan, with Mary riding much of the trip on a donkey. The nights were cold.

On Dec. 23, they had two days to go before reaching Bethlehem. And at this point, they would just be passing through Samaria. Jewish travelers who dared that route were marks for bandits.

But we know God was watching over Mary and Joseph. They made it to Bethlehem, but only to find out there was no room at the inn.

Bethlehem was normally a sleepy little town, but it was bustling with Jews who had returned to register for the census.

Mary and Joseph, we know, found a stable. But this wasn’t the stable we see on the Hallmark Christmas cards.

The stables in those days often were dark, cold caves with “mangers” — animal-feeding troughs carved into the stone walls. The mangers in those days were not wooden cribs padded with dry, neatly arranged hay.

With nowhere else to go, Mary gave birth — under the stars; amid the manure and muck; among the sheep, cows, goats and chickens; no doctors present to administer an epidural; with Joseph, her carpenter husband, assisting as best he could. Those who have witnessed birth know it’s difficult

in a hospital bed. Imagine the scene in a smelly, dark, cold cave.

Yet this lowly, humble setting was the way Jesus Christ, the savior whom God sent for mankind, came into this world.

Now contrast the differences: Caesar Augustus maneuvering for worldly power and the biggest worldwide celebrity of his day; Herod, a regional celebrity, abusing his power in unspeakable ways. They were all about self-centered status, power and ego.

Mary and Joseph were the antithesis. Humble, not materially wealthy, ordinary in all appearances. And yet they were extraordinary.

God sent his messenger, the angel Gabriel, and stunned the innocent Mary, that she would conceive miraculously and bring forth a son who would “reign over the house of Jacob forever.” She would be his mother.

And Joseph, the quiet carpenter, he fretted over what would happen to Mary, his fiancee, if people found out she was pregnant before they were married. The angel Gabriel gave comfort to Joseph, just as he did to Mary.

And with humility, without complaint and far below the status of celebrity, they carried out God’s will, remembering all the while Gabriel’s assurance to Mary: “For with God, nothing shall be impossible.”

This is our heritage.

If we do anything in this holiday season, we should keep our perspective — give thanks to God and bring “peace on earth, good will toward men.”

Happy Hanukkah. Merry Christmas.

(Editor’s note: A version of this has appeared annually since 2010.)

Caesar Augustus and Herod were all about self-centered status, power and ego. … Mary and Joseph were the antithesis. Humble, not materially wealthy, ordinary in all appearances. And yet they were extraordinary.

“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

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

FROM PAGE 7

MARY LOU JOHNSON I think the name of the game is to keep plans fluid as exposure or catching COVID-19 happens in a flash. Our Thanksgiving plans have been to go to Tallahassee to stay with one daughter’s family along with our other daughter’s family, who drive up from Tampa. We go on hikes and just hang out. However, this year one week before Thanksgiving, that plan evolved through several different plans with the final one being that no one was going anywhere just to be safer.

Past Christmas and present plans at this moment are that both daughters’ families come here to Longboat Key. They all love to cook, so Bill and I luck out and get the privilege of playing with our four grandchildren, 5, 3, 3 and 1 years old, during the food preparations. With four water babies, we all love being outdoors at the beach or pool. We keep it fun and easy. We will cook and get takeout, which works well with their young ages and early bedtime. One family then usually flies on Christmas Day to in-laws up north, although this looks doubtful this year. This is all a few weeks out, so God only knows. I love that they all wake up here together for Christmas morning. I truly hope that doesn’t change. For now, all are healthy, and we are counting our blessings, taking one day at a time and staying very fluid with the Christmas planning. My prayer for all is for strength and direction to do what we need to do to put this all behind us.

Murray and Alice Blueglass

MURRAY BLUEGLASS Often family will gather, but it will be just the two of us for Hanukkah. In spite of the fact that we won’t be near family, we will be Zooming, and that’s good because you get to see them. One thing that’s never going to change as long as the two of us are together is Alice’s potato pancakes (latkes). My mother was from Poland and learned to cook heavy — and even her lemon meringue pie you had to eat with a knife and fork — always said potato pancakes were supposed to be heavy. But Alice’s are so delicious. To this day I don’t know what she puts in them, but whatever it is, is absolutely magnificent. When you bite into them, they are so crisp. I regret when the holiday is over, and we can’t eat them anymore.

MARY BAKER Every year we get together with some or all of our five grandchildren during the holidays. We have four granddaughters close in age, and they all love swimming. We have spent many happy holidays together at the beach and pool here on Longboat Key. Sadly, this year will be different as no one is going to travel. We will miss them but look forward to next year’s holiday festivities.

Mary Lou Johnson with her daughters, Erica and Randi, and granddaughters, Carlin, Lucy and Ellie

CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

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Mary Baker with her granddaughters on Longboat Key during a warm Christmas past

9

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

CHERI STARN

FROM PAGE 9

In December 2019, all the traditional Christmas events came to a quick halt. Our mother, 83, checked in at an annual dentist appointment and within 24 hours was sitting in an oral surgeon’s chair for a biopsy in her mouth. Within a matter of days, she was seen at The Ohio State James Cancer Hospital for further testing. All the results indicated surgery was needed to remove a cancerous tumor.

From the moment our mother left the dentist chair, the family prayer chain was put into action.

Six children and spouses, 13 grandchildren and their spouses, 14 great-grandchildren surrounded our parents. We all witnessed many Christmas miracles unfold as her surgery date of Dec. 23 approached.

We gathered together that morning at 5:30 a.m. as Mom/Grammie was checked in.

Surrounded by love, my mom went into surgery, and for 12 hours straight we gathered as family and several friends, prayerfully waiting to hear each update from the nurses and doctors.

Christmas 2019 could not have been less traditional for the Dewitz family, but no one cared. We were together in a rented VRBO eating off paper plates, celebrating the joy of Mom’s successful surgery and God’s blessings over our family. It’s been almost a year as I share this. The recovery road for Mom has been very long and definitely still not over.

COVID-19 posed even more challenges to her recovery and isolation from many of her loved ones.

Mom remains faithful and continues to fight every day. I know we are not alone, it’s been a hard year for many families.

[I’m] hoping everyone continues to stay strong and, above all, love and support each other.

DEBBY MCCLUNG We always gathered at my Nana’s house for Christmas Eve along with all the aunts, uncles, cousins and anybody else that wanted to show up for a grand eve. When she passed, we took turns hosting Christmas Eve at the other family homes. Last year I lost both my parents, and with COVID-19 I’m spending a quiet Christmas at home with my roommate. Travel this year is just too risky for me. There will be a Christmas next year, and I hope to make it a “Grand Christmas” again.

Debby McClung and her family

Susan Gorin’s family: Joe Meth, Jayne Meth, Bonnie Wilder, Roz Ehrenpreis (front), Karen Gary, Skip Wilder (back) and Bob Gary with his grandson Andrew Lieber

SUSAN GORIN In the past at Hanukkah, we would be getting together with adults whose children are far away, so we would gather together and light Hanukkah candles.

All the people in the photo live in our neighborhood, and we had a dinner together, but first we lit candles.

It was a social event. Being with others at Hanukkah is really important, and lighting the candles is so beautiful. As you can see, we lit a lot of candles, and it was only the third night of Hanukkah, so imagine nine candles times however many menorahs were present. We are Zooming with our kids, who live in Tennessee and California. Even though it’s just David and me, I just decorated for Hanukkah. I put up a big banner, took out all the dreidels. I silver polished the menorahs and was really just for us, but it was a fun and beautiful happy holiday.

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certificates to Lazy Lobster.

On Dec. 5 at dusk from the South Fishing Pier (we call it Christina’s Pier because Christina Filkins has decorated it for years), residents began the stroll of our inner harbor to view the docks. Everyone was wearing their masks and stayed in groups of less than 10.

After everyone finished strolling all the docks, many residents strolled back to dock 17, where our old Sea Dog Larry Bateman was sitting on a sailboat. Bateman just retired from the Yacht Club as dock master. He also served in the past as a commodore and a former member of the LBH Board of Directors.

Bateman pumped out more boats and repaired more broken dock lines than anyone in this community. Residents spread out on the grass as the Yacht Club presented Bateman with a plaque and a few gift and sang “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow.”

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Even with COVID-19 and a shutdown of social events at arguably one of the most social communities on Longboat Key, the Yacht Club decided we could still do our Lighting of the Docks event to add holiday spirit, celebration and cheer to our community.

Many residents who normally go north for the holidays decided to stay at Longboat Harbour this year because of the travel restrictions and health concerns, making this event all that more special for the community.

All 43 docks in our inner harbor plus our south fishing pier were decorated. Almost 10 docks were decorated by individuals or groups who adopted the dock because the boater was out of town. Picking the top five best-decorated docks was quite a challenge because everyone did such a great job. The top five docks were awarded gift

11

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

THE NICE LIST:

Your friends and neighbors helped out

a lot this holiday season.

T

he holidays are a time of good tidings and giving, and Longboat Key has no shortage of generosity even in the midst of a pandemic. Here’s a roundup of some of town’s do-gooders this holiday season.

receive a coupon for a cup of lobster bisque, glass of wine or house cocktail for their good deed.

LONGBOAT KEY TURTLE WATCH

– OBSERVER STAFF

REPUBLICAN CLUB OF LONGBOAT KEY

Every year, the Republicans Club of Longboat Key asks residents to donate an unwrapped toy at its holiday party to pass onto Toys for Tots. This year, club leadership offered a steep discount to those generous enough to bring a toy — half off dinner at that night’s party. By the end of the night, toys spilled out from under the tree in Harbourside Ballroom, and outgoing President Joe McElmeel said they brought in double the donations from last year.

Courtesy photo

The Rotary Club gathered plenty of toys and gifts for families in need this holiday season.

gift card donation from Debbie Shaffer at Cool Today, which brought the chamber to 41 gift cards by Dec. 10.

THE TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY

The town of Longboat Key sets up two drop-off spots for Toys for Tots every year and draws a good haul of new and unwrapped toys to donate, one at Town Hall and one at the police station. On Dec. 10, Sam Lastinger brought in a bounty of toys that overflowed the drop box, many of which were given by Aquarius residents.

LONGBOAT KEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Every year at the holiday season, the chamber partners with Manatee Children’s Services to buy toys for the children they serve as part of their “Holiday Project.”

However, out of an abundance of caution due to COVID-19, Manatee Children’s Services this year requested gift cards instead of asking folks to go out and shop for toys.

With money raised at networking events, the chamber pur-

BELL-RINGING VOLUNTEERS Nat Kaemmerer

Svetlana Kaminsky and Michael Garey at the Lazy Lobster

chased 30 gift cards. It received another $500 from Jaime DiDomenico at Cool Today — good for another 10 cards — and another

What’s a Salvation Army bellringing station without the bells?

Volunteers at the Shoppes of Bay Isles lamented the wonky sound of their bells until Gulfshore resident Jack Joyce generously purchased and donated to the cause two new bells.

LONGBOAT HARBOUR CONDOMINIUMS

Residents donated more than $2,500 to Toys for Tots, condo President Bill Coughlin said. “In spite of the problems caused by COVID-19, the holiday spirit and traditions at Longboat Harbour are still alive and well,” he said.

KIWANIS CLUB OF LONGBOAT KEY

Kiwanis Club of Longboat Key President Lynn Larson and Lazy Lobster Owner Michael Garey teamed up to set up an Angel Tree within the restaurant, while Director of Tennis Briana Harris Francois at the Longboat Key Club set one up at the Tennis Gardens. Interested givers were invited to pick an angel to select a child to buy a gift for or to grab an envelope off the tree to make a donation to the Children’s Guardian Fund. Garey was also offering discounts for donors, who could

The Longboat Key Turtle Watch made several donations totaling more than $13,000 to area wildlife organizations for the holiday season, as it has in years past. It donated $500 each to Wildlife Inc., Save Our Seabirds and Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium’s education fund. The group raised money throughout the year with its T-shirt sales as well as Name the Nest and other donations from community members.

Its biggest donation was $3,000 to Mote’s virtual programs, and the group also made distinctions for funds to Mote’s Sea Turtle Rescue and Conservation Program, hatchling hospital and stranding investigations.

ROTARY CLUB OF LONGBOAT KEY

The club started collecting toys at the second annual Light Up Longboat event Nov. 28 and will donate them to the children of migrant farm workers in the area.

Unwrapped toys were dropped off at the tree lighting event, but the Rotary Club teamed up with Design2000 in Whitney Plaza to keep collecting gifts. More toys were dropped off during December. By the end of the program, when town Public Works Project Manager James Linkogle picked the goods up Dec. 15, more than 160 presents had come in — far more than Rotary has ever brought in before. In addition to the gifts, the club also donated bilingual books to the kids.

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available; indoor seating other than the main sanctuary provided for Christmas Eve. For Zoom links, email dave@AllAngelsLBK. org, or go to AllAngelsLBK.org for livestreams.

■ Blue Christmas: This service is a tradition started by the Rev. Dave Marshall in 2019 and is for those feeling blue at Christmas.

Service will be 7 p.m. Dec. 23.

■ Christmas Eve: Choral performance begins at 5 p.m. followed by the service at 5:30.

■ Christmas Day: No services.

ST. ARMANDS KEY LUTHERAN CHURCH ■ All services: Reservations required; seating is limited, Visit SAKLC.com/reservations, or call 388-1234. Masks are required.

For those worshipping virtually, visit SAKLC.com/live at your desired time.

■ Christmas Eve: Services at noon, 3, 5, 6, 7 and 9 p.m.

The 6 p.m. service will be in the Fellowship Hall, not the sanctuary. Holy Communion offered at all services plus a choral prelude starting 15 minutes prior.

■ Christmas Day: Service from 9-10 a.m.

ALL ANGELS BY THE SEA EPISCOPAL CHURCH All services: Reservations are required to be in the sanctuary.

Call 383-8161. Masks and social distancing are required. Outdoor drive-up or walk-up service

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

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ST. MARY, STAR OF THE SEA, CATHOLIC CHURCH No reservations, but masks and social distancing are required. Service can also be watched online after the fact at StMaryLBK.org. Call 383-1255.

■ Christmas Eve: Services at 3:30, 5, 8:30 (with Christmas carols) and 9 p.m.

■ Christmas Day: Services at 8:30 and 10:30 a.m.

LONGBOAT ISLAND CHAPEL No reservations are required for services, but masks are requested. Services will be streamed live on the Chapel’s YouTube and Facebook pages.

Call 383-6491.

■ Christmas Eve: Services at 4 and 6 p.m., the latter a candlelight communion.

■ Christmas Day: No services.

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CHRIST CHURCH OF LONGBOAT KEY Reservations for in-person services required; call 9004903. For live service, visit bit. ly/CCLBKSermons, or go to ChristChurchLBK.org, and follow the YouTube link. Masks and social distancing are required.

■ Christmas Eve: Candlelit service begins at 5:30 p.m.

■ Christmas Day: No services.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

Debi Lander, Elaine Markos, Alex Forsyth and John Antonuk

Scott Brynski, Trudy Barry, Patty Lowe, Kate Sidney and Marshall Fernandes

Yacht club hosts blessing of fleet

Left: John Roble and Fred White Below: Keara and Jennifer Escobedo.

Keara sang after Rev. Craig Collemer wrapped up his speech.

O

n Dec. 5, the members of the Bird Key Yacht Club gathered for their annual Blessing of the Fleet holiday party.

Rev. Craig Collemer spoke about the long-held tradition of blessing boats that dates to the 16th century.

“Tonight, we come together for this very ancient tradition in a time when we find ourselves sort of in an unusual time, to say the least,” Collemer said. “I suspect many of us feel like, ‘Boy, could I use a blessing.’”

In keeping with tradition, Keara Escobedo sang for the gathered crowd and was joined by the past and present commodore.

Photos by Nat Kaemmerer

— NAT KAEMMERER

Irene and Earl Hagman

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

15

Mote releases rehabbed sea turtle We Serve All Families MARK BERGIN

In this time of need, know who to call.

STAFF WRITER

M

ote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium released a rehabilitated loggerhead sea turtle named Violet last week into the Gulf of Mexico.

Donning wetsuits, Longboat Key Projects Manager Charlie Mopps and Public Works Office Manager Alex Lowe-Mains assisted in Violet’s release at the public beach access point across the street from Bayfront Park.

“Charlie is helping provide the muscle,” Lowe-Mains joked.

Mote requested the town’s assistance in carrying Violet and to help stop traffic along Gulf of Mexico Drive as the lab’s cargo van got onto the beach. About a half dozen people helped carry the turtle from the van.

Mote Marine Lab Content Development Manager Hayley Rutger said Violet weighs about 215 pounds. Violet had been at Mote’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Hospital since Sept. 1, Rutger said. Mote initially found Violet beached near Martinique North Condos in Holmes Beach.

“She was brought into our hospital by our Stranding Investigations Program,” Rutger said.

“They got a call from the public, they picked up the stranded turtle, and then they brought her in, they did a physical examination.

And we saw that the flipper had been amputated.”

She said scientists believe Violet lost her left front flipper to fishing gear entanglement.

Our firms will serve your family with all precautions, CDC guidelines, and compassionate care.

Mark Bergin

“They didn’t see the gear, but based on their knowledge and the appearance of the injury, it looked that way,” Rutger said. “When we see this come in, we’re usually sad to see it, but it’s definitely not the first time, so we kind of put the message out that people need to be very careful about not leaving fishing gear behind in the environment.”

Mote scientists also did an X-ray on Violet’s front right flipper because of a possible dislocation. Doctors gave her an injectable antibiotic and then moved to iron supplements. On Nov. 13, scientists moved Violet to a larger rehabilitation pool for deeper diving and exercising her front right flipper.

Despite missing her front left flipper, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission deemed Violet was cleared for release after 15 weeks of rehabilitation.

Town staff helps Mote release the loggerhead sea turtle into the Gulf of Mexico across from Bayfront Park.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

TRIBUTES She devoted her life to raising her three children, Michael, Karen and Tracy. She took enormous pride in creating a warm and inviting home where friends and family were always welcome.

Mrs. Powers was born in Philadelphia, PA to parents Margaret Fife and William Hutchinson. Along with her younger siblings, Bill, Ronnie, and Lee the family moved to Paoli, PA. During her senior year in high school, Barbara’s family moved to Summit, NJ but fiercely independent, Barbara stayed behind in order to finish out the year and graduate from Paoli High School. Upon graduation she joined her family in Summit and worked at pharmaceutical giant Ciba Geigy. Shortly thereafter, she met the love of her life, John Powers, and they married within weeks. Barbara liked to say it was truly a case of “love at first sight.”

They had been married 56 years at the time of John’s death in 2015.

In 1966, together along with her sister’s husband, Tom they opened Powers Motor Company where Barbara worked in accounts payable until they sold the company in 1998. But Barbara’s true love was her family. She devoted her life to raising her three children, Michael, Karen and Tracy.

She took enormous pride in creating a warm and inviting home where friends and family were always welcome. Barbara and her sister Lee Kertesz raised their children

in the same town; the families loved being together with Barbara being known affectionately as “Aunt Bobbie” to her nieces and nephews. She especially loved hosting Christmas dinner every year and adored the customs and traditions that came with the holiday. She is remembered for wearing a white chef hat while she cooked with Christmas carols playing and a tiny glass of sherry nearby.

Mrs. Powers was a lifelong golfer and a 30 year member of Roxciticus Golf Club.

In 1983, Barbara and John bought a second home in Longboat Key, Florida where they quickly made many friends and enjoyed long hours on the golf course, evenings out with friends and quiet time together. They still greeted each other with a kiss every morning and held hands on the couch together at night with a glass of chardonnay.

Once her grandchildren were born, Barbara found great joy in being their “Mammom”. She looked forward to spending weeks on Long Beach Island surrounded by her children and grandchildren. Sadly in 2006, she was diagnosed with a metastatic brain tumor. With the true grit and tenac-

ity she was known for she fought hard and survived.

Barbara was the loving mother of Michael Powers of Independence, Karen Blanc of Chester and Tracy Paul of Bernardsville. Barbara was very close to her sons-in law Didier and Andrew, and daughter-in law Erica. All visited her often in recent years to simply sit by her side holding her hand.

Barbara was the proud grandmother of Daniel, Annie and Luke Blanc, Grace and Maggie Paul and Brian, Matthew, and Kevin Powers. Barbara is survived by her sister Lee Kertesz and brothers Bill and Ron Hutchinson.

A private service was held Monday, December 14th with burial immediately following at St. Bernards Cemetery. For further information, or to leave an online condolence message please visit www. gcfuneralhome.com

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AMERICA’S LONGEST RUNNING YOUTH CIRCUS

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Sally Elizabeth Daneman, of Bradenton Florida; (formerly of Lincroft, NJ) passed away Wednesday December 9, 2020 due to complications from Covid. She was 88.

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Barbara Hutchinson Powers, 80, of Longboat Key Florida and Bernardsville died on Thursday, December 10, 2020 at Sunrise Assisted Living in Randolph NJ. Her family was by her side.

Sally Elizabeth Daneman

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Barbara Hutchinson Powers

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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Turtle Watch sets out on beach cleanup T

— NAT KAEMMERER

17

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

An Ecumenical Church that Welcomes all People

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

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.

Temple Beth Israel

A Center of Jewish Life and Learning in the Sarasota Area Your health and well-being are of the utmost concern to us!

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.

941.383.3428 | www.tbi-lbk.org

RABBI STEPHEN L. SNIDERMAN, D.D.

567 Bay Isles Road • Longboat Key, FL

342205-1

he Longboat Key Turtle Watch dispersed on the island’s beaches Dec. 12, reusable bags and grabbers in hand, as they picked up trash for their monthly beach cleanup event.

The organization does a cleanup every month, organized by Keep Manatee Beautiful. Volunteers are divided into the zones turtle watchers patrol during the season, don their masks and fan out along the sand to pick up refuse left behind and washed ashore.

On Dec. 12, it was a warm and sunny day, making conditions perfect for a morning walk. Several groups found sea turtle eggs that had been washed out of the few remaining nests on the beach when Tropical Storm Eta hit.

One group found an abandoned, seaworn chair on the sand, and Ann Quackenbush found three shoes — none of them matching.

Overall, there wasn’t too much out of the ordinary as far as trash collection goes — bottle caps, cigarette butts, straws and bits of micro-plastics — but there was a lot of it.

The next beach cleanup will be in early January.

|

Courtesy photo

Ayla Sellers with her haul of trash

An EcumEnicAl church WElcoming All PEoPlE foundEd in 1956

Nancy and Jack Rozance

ARRIVING AT THE MANGER December 24th Christmas Eve Services:

• Early service at 4:00 pm • Candlelight and communion service at 6:00 pm

Photos by Nat Kaemmerer 342132-1

Nancy Rozance almost mistook a feather’s stem for a straw.

6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive | Longboat Key, Florida 34228 admin@longboatislandchapel.org | www.longboatislandchapel.org Follow us on Facebook | 941-383-6491

5 Ways to Worship at All Angels

All Angels Episcopal Church | 563 Bay Isles Rd

941-383-8161 • www.AllAngelsLBK.org

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Blue Christmas, December 23rd, 7 pm.

A service for those who are feeling blue this year.

Christmas Eve, December 24th, 5 pm.

A joyous celebration of the Nativity of the Lord.

All services have limited indoor seating, outdoor seating with video screen, and available on-line at AllAngelsLBK.org

St. Mary, Star of the Sea, CATHOLIC CHURCH

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

MASS SCHEDULE

Christmas Eve: 3:30 pm, 5:00 pm & 9:00 pm (Carols at 8:30 pm) Christmas Day: 8:30 am & 10:30 am Daily Mass at 9:00 am Saturday: 3:30 pm, 5:00 pm | Sunday 8:30 am & 10:30 am

Growing in Jesus’ Name

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE Join Us on Thursday, December 24th - 5:30 PM Reservations Are Required

•

941-900- 4903

•

Masks Required

Watch the Christmas Eve Service Live: www.bit.ly/cclbksermons or www.christchurchlbk.org (follow YouTube link)

DECEMBER 27TH SUNDAY SERVICE Worship With Us at Our Church - 10:00 AM Reservations Are Required • 941-900- 4903 • Masks Required The Rev. Dr. Norman Pritchard SERMON:

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Reverend Robert Dziedziak 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228 383-1255 | www.stmarylbk.org

Visitors & Residents Welcome 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive

•

941.383.8833 (office)

•

www.christchurchlbk.org

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

Classifieds 30 Games 29 Real Estate 27 Weather 29

DECEMBER 24, 2020

YOUR NEIGHBORS The Rev. Robert Dziedziak came to St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church as the pandemic started.

HIS PARISH

Photos by Nat Kaemmerer

The Rev. Robert Dziedziak addresses parishioners and blesses the new Nativity scene dedicated to Monsignor Gerry Finegan (above right).

NAT KAEMMERER | STAFF WRITER

F  

or a while, the most face-to-face contact the Rev. Robert Dziedziak had with his new parishioners was a masked wave as he ran past on Gulf of Mexico Drive. The new pastor

at St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church would run along the island’s main road during the early days of the pandemic, often seeing church members also trying to get out and about safely.

Miracle On

“I always see them, but it’s strange because they have pulled up their masks,� Dziedziak said. “They say, ‘Good morning, Father Robert,’ and then I see them at the church. But I don’t register that [I saw this person]. Then I see you at the church, and I don’t know if that was you or not.�

Such is life in the midst of a pandemic. Dziedziak began his tenure as lead pastor March 16, a Monday. He was directed by

SEE REVEREND, PAGE 20

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GETTING TO KNOW

the Diocese of Venice to close the church on that Friday, March 20, due to COVID-19. For a long time afterward, his only way to connect to his new congregation was via video services. Even as the church reopened for in-person services, Dziedziak saw the people there through masks. “I met my parishioners in a strange way,� Dziedziak said. “I’m still coming to know them, and it will probably take longer than normal because of the pandemic, but nevertheless, I’m really excited about being here and serving this wonderful parish family.�

Even without the normal trappings of church life, Dziedziak is diving into the scene at the church in any way he can, men’s club President Chuck Sobieck said. Any meeting for the men’s club or women’s guild, Dziedziak is there. With seemingly unbound stores of energy, he also spends two days a week in Venice, acting as a tribunal judge and lawyer for the diocese. “He’s involved in everything, and he’s a hard-charger,� Sobieck said. “He’s pushing things all the time. It’s really refreshing.�

At 43, Dziedziak is the youngest priest to serve the Longboat Key Catholic community since the Rev. Edward Pick came to Longboat Key to found the church in 1973, when he was 38. Dziedziak is just the third priest of the church, following in the footsteps of Monsignor Gerry Finegan, who died in February and had served the church for 12 years.

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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

EN OP

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

Reverend FROM PAGE 18

“As much as we miss Father Gerry, it has been an absolute joy to have Father Robert,” women’s guild President Sue DiNatale said.

“He’s young, energetic, joyful, and he has a very bright personality.”

His personality comes through during his sermons and homilies.

He uses no notes, just speaks from the heart and in a way that makes you sit up and remember what he’s said while also giving you something to take home to think about, Sobieck said. He’s inclusive, welcoming in those who are at the parish for the first time and doling out happy birthday and anniversary wishes. On top of it all, he’s funny.

“Every time he does homilies and sermons, he always interjects these jokes, and they’re pretty funny,” DiNatale said. “That was a first for me for a priest, but he gets people’s attention and gets people to listen.”

It’s a frustrating time for Dziedziak; he is eager to get the social life of church back on track, but he seems to be doing all right — positive reviews abound, Sobieck

“ Even with this COVID-19 thing, people are really positive. … This is like a very peaceful, spiritual place and full of joyful people. I tell them jokes on Sunday, and nobody’s wrote me up to the diocese yet.”

– The Rev. Robert Dziedziak

said. There’s plenty of time yet to entrench himself into the social scene and build it back, too.

Dziedziak is in for the long haul on Longboat Key and said he hopes to retire here. He’s here to serve and grow, he said, and has noticed an eagerness from both him and his parishioners.

“Even with this COVID-19 thing, people are really positive,” Dziedziak said. “I had similar experiences at different parishes, but this is very unique. This is like a very peaceful, spiritual place and full of joyful people.

I tell them jokes on Sunday, and nobody’s wrote me up to the diocese yet.”

GET TO KNOW DZIEDZIAK

Born in Poland, Dziedziak came to the states in 1999 and attended the primarily Polish seminary Ss. Cyril and Methodius Seminary in Orchard Lake, Mich. He came to Florida in 2005 and was ordained by the Diocese of Venice. His first stop was Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Punta Gorda, then St. Jude’s in Sarasota, then St. Patrick Catholic Church in Sarasota, where he spent 12 years as priest. Besides runs so long he makes it into Sarasota and back on foot, Dziedziak enjoys a good book and getting to the beach. In non-pandemic times, he likes to travel to go hiking or go on a cruise with friends.

Photos by Nat Kaemmerer

Paula Miller and Cindy Noble with stacks of unwrapped toys serving as admission to the concert.

St. Mary hosts Christmas concert

T

he parishioners of St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church kept up their tradition of the annual Christmas concert, albeit with a few tweaks for 2020.

On Dec. 11, attendees paid their admission (an unwrapped toy to donate to a local charity for Christmas) and filed into the church to find their seats. Normally, the concert is held in the Father Edward Pick Fellowship Hall, but the church sanctuary allows for more spacing.

Singer Anne Tormela and pianist Lee Dougherty Ross moved through traditional Christmas songs before moving onto jauntier carols. At the end, the musicians received a standing ovation.

Above: David and Judee Endean Right: Lee Dougherty Ross plays the piano.

— NAT KAEMMERER

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$619,000

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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

342848-1

NEW LISTING

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

DEC. 24

203-605-4066, or email info@ LongboatKeyRotary.org.

BELL RINGING This is your last chance to drop donations in the Salvation Army’s red kettles outside Publix any time. Donations of $20 bills will be matched by an anonymous donor.

WEDNESDAYS

TAI CHI From 10-11 a.m. outdoors at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Certified instructor Reuben Fernandez leads the weekly class in traditional tai chi as well as others. A chenstyle warmup will open the energy channels and meridians. Wear loose clothing and flat-soled shoes. Cost is $10.

RSVP to DonnaSharpBlaney@ TheParadiseCenter.org or by phone 383-6493.

RECURRING EVENTS MONDAYS

STRETCH & STRENGTHEN From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. All exercises are from a standing or seated position. You may bring your own small hand weights.

Groups are limited to 10, and masks are encouraged. Class led by Suzy Brenner. Fee is $10.

RSVP to DonnaSharpBlaney@ TheParadiseCenter.org or by phone at 383-6493.

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

Topics include U.S. and world current affairs, popular culture and those relevant to seniors.

Groups are limited to 10, and masks are required. Cost is $10.

RSVP to DonnaSharpBlaney@ TheParadiseCenter.org or by phone at 383-6493.

TUESDAYS

QI GONG From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road.

Sandi Love teaches this mindbody-spirit practice outdoors to improve mental and physical health by integrating posture, movement, breathing techniques, self-massage, sound

File photo

Kids at Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium’s Holiday Happenings can make crafts in an open-air courtyard.

DON’T MISS DEC. 28-30

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AT MOTE From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., if you have young kids in town, add a Holiday Happenings pass to your Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium admission and get slimy at the dissection station, investigate ocean acidity or make an eco-friendly craft.

The event occurs in an open-air courtyard with masks and social distancing, guests will sanitize before and after, and tools will be sanitized between groups. Cost is $6 for members and $7 for nonmembers. Visit Mote.org/events/details/holidayhappenings, or email education@mote.org.

and focused intent. Wear loose clothing that does not restrict range of motion and flat-soled shoes (not running shoes). Cost is $10. RSVP to DonnaSharpBlaney@TheParadiseCenter.org or by phone at 383-6493.

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

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

ROTARY CLUB Meets at 5 p.m. virtually on Zoom, every first and third Tuesday. Call Nancy Rozance at

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

342089-1

RELAXED SOPHISTICATION | BRAND NEW

J . D. , R E A LTO R ® , L B K C O M M I S S I O N E R

941.500.3774

SherryDominick@michaelsaunders.com SherryDominick.michaelsaunders.com

LORD’S WAREHOUSE From 9 a.m. until noon, shop at the newly 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.

YOGA & MEDITATION No class Dec. 25. From 10-11 a.m. in December at

*Terms of Offer:Submit your rebate ONLINE ONLY at NAPARebates.com and enter code:NAPAAUTOCARE.Submit with the installation receipt,showing the qualifying NAPA®️ part numbers circled.Must claim online by 03/15/21.

Receipt must be dated during promotion period of 01/01/21 through 02/28/21 to be eligible for this offer. Offer may not be combined with any other offer or applied toward warranty service or replacement parts. Group or organization requests will not be honored. Dealers, distributors and other resellers are not eligible for this offer. Use of multiple addresses or PO Boxes to obtain additional reward is fraud and may result in prosecution. Employees of participating stores and dealers, and their immediate families are not eligible for this offer.This offer is only valid to US residents.Limit of two (2) Battery rebates and a limit of one (1) Starter or Alternator rebate per customer or household/address. Cards are issued by Bank of America, N.A. pursuant to a license from Visa®️ Inc.These cards are not credit cards and expire six (6) months from issue and have no value after that date.These cards may be used for purchases at merchants that accept Visa®️ debit cards. These cards may be subject to fees and certain restrictions on use. See your cardholder agreement and associated materials for details. Void where prohibited.

Vendor is not responsible for non-delivered mail due to inaccurate address supplied nor for misprints or typographical errors.By submitting this rebate,you have read and agree to the rebate terms and requirements of this offer.

5608 MARINA DR., HOLMES BEACH, 34217

(NEXT TO DOMINOS PIZZA) 941-896-7898 • GROOMSAUTO.COM

4,240 patients lost 66,726 pounds.

No joke! Call for a FREE private consultation with Dr. Barnett.

Enroll with a partner and you each save $100.

WHITNEY BEACH a beach to bay community. This first floor waterfront 2/2 condo has tile floors, newer kitchen with solid surface counters and is being offered furnished. The community offers tennis, boat docks and 3 pools. A large pet is welcome in this casual, friendly neighborhood. SOLD $370,000

(941) 365-0812

PENDING - THE RITZ-CARLTON RESIDENCES under construction on the Sarasota Bayfront – flow through residences with west to east views; private elevators opening directly into each residence; world class services provided by the Ritz-Carlton Hotel; outstanding amenities FROM $2,400,000

$

895

Truly All Inclusive No Hidden Costs 342726-1

BOBBIE BANAN, REALTOR® 356-2659 | www.bobbiebanan@michaelsaunders.com

THE MSC FOUNDATION

Michael Saunders & Company

ADVISORY COUNCIL

St. Armands Circle, Sarasota, FL (941) 388-4447

Licensed Real Estate Broker

Ambassador’s Circle

342155-1

AND MEMBER OF

FRIDAYS

SATURDAYS

Lose 15-30 Pounds in 30 Days!

WINDWARD BAY renovated 2/2 corner residence with pleasant water view.

Kitchen and bathrooms have wood cabinets and granite counters. The many Windward Bay amenities include deeded beach access, 2 pools, 2 tennis courts, boat docks, kayak racks, fitness room, clubhouse. 2 large pets are allowed.

SOLD $430,000

TO THE MSC FOUNDATION

ZUMBA AND MAT PILATES FOR SENIORS From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road.

The class, designed for active seniors, starts with Zumba and shifts to all-level mat Pilates at 10:30 a.m. Work core strength and endurance with a series of slow, controlled movements and stretches. Cost is $10.

RSVP to 383-6493.

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

440 Gulf of Mexico Dr | Longboat Key, FL 34228 345245-1

PROUD CONTRIBUTOR

THURSDAYS

VIRTUAL COCKTAIL HOUR Beginning at 5 p.m. on Zoom with Temple Beth Israel, join other community members for a themed cocktail hour with discussion and drinks. The temple is currently holding “My Jewish Journey,” a series of talks from congregation members. The hour leads into the temple’s virtual Shabbat dinners. Contact iazerad@tbi-lbk.org or info@ tbi-lbk.org for information.

During January and February Purchase and Install: NAPA LEGEND BATTERY Claim a $10 Prepaid Visa®️ Card* NAPA LEGEND PREMIUM BATTERY Claim a $20 Prepaid Visa®️ Card* NAPA STARTER or ALTERNATOR Claim a $15 Prepaid Visa®️ Card*

Selling Longboat Key and Sarasota

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

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 and is limited to 10 members. Call the chapel to register at 383-6491.

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 seniors of 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.

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

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

23

REID MURPHY & THE BOYS PRESENT ...

Luxury on the Water CALL REID TODAY! | 941.232.3304 | www.ReidMurphy.com NEWLISTING

$6,950,000 BIRD KEY BOATERS PARADISE $5,500,000 LONGBOAT KEY CUSTOM KEY WEST STYLE HOME Beautiful Bird Key custom 4BD/4BA home. 100ft Sarasota Bay frontage w/infinity pool. Deep water Exceptional Bayfront custom Key West style 4 bedroom home. Spectacular views. Bayside pool. dock w/ lifts. Four car garage.

Roof top viewing area. Boat dock. The best!

LONGBOAT KEY CASUALLY ELEGANT BAYFRONT $7,800,000 LONGBOAT KEY POSITANO WALK-OUT $3,875,000 Stunning estate w/panoramic views. 75’ heated pool on 600’ of frontage deep bay water. 3 boat Beautiful 3BR/3.5BA. Open plan w/expansive terrraces & 10’ ceilings. Dramatic Gulf of Mexico & slips, guest house & 8 car garage. beach views from floor to ceiling windows. +2 car private garage.

NEWPRICE

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.

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.

LONGBOAT BEACHFRONT ESTATE $7,495,000 New 2017 construction. Casually elegant open 5BR/7BA plan overlooking gorgeous Gulf of Mexico beach with outdoor living on two levels.

NEWLISTING

LBK BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME $3,950,000 $3,195,000 Direct Gulf front estate lot right on the beach! $2,995,000 Approximately 500 ft’ deep w/ 100 feet on the $2,945,000 beach. Parcel is cleared & ready to build.

Developers Realty Inc. Lic. Real Estate Broker

LONGBOAT BEACH & BOAT $3,345,000 Buttonwood spectacular 3BR/3.5BA home.

Deepwater multi-craft dock w/ direct ICW & Gulf access. Steps to the beach. Amazing views from private and lush setting.

www.ReidMurphy.com

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

342973-1

LIDO KEY PROPERTIES Coolidge Drive Jackson Drive Van Buren Drive

24

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

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

Red-shouldered hawk

For Longboat Key’s Premier Property Management Services Call Bonnie Wiedeman | 941-383-5577

941-387-8344 5360 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Suite 101, in the Centre Shops, Longboat Key.

345241-1

www.rentalsonlongboat.com

Work with JoDene Realtor , Certified Staging Agent

31-year Longboat Key resident

T

LongboatKeyLiving.com

®

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

he most abundant and widely found hawks in Florida, red-shouldered hawks are named for their reddish upper wing coverts, or shoulders. Feeding primarily on small rodents, amphibians and reptiles, they typically hunt from a perch in the forest understory or fly low through woodlands, pouncing on their unsuspecting prey in a surprise attack.

In urban settings, they’ve adapted to hunt from power lines, where you’ll often spot them, high above roadways, in quest of their next meal.

Red-shouldered hawk populations declined in the early 20th century because of hunting, DDT poisoning and habitat loss to deforestation. With protection by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, by the banning of DDT and by reforestation, their numbers recovered, though they remain vulnerable to collisions with cars (when flying low across roads after prey) and power lines.

Red-shouldered hawks are also threatened by metals and other poisons in our environment. Of specific concern are pest-control anticoagulants and other poisons that do not kill rodents immediately but rather slowly weaken them, thus making them easier prey for red-shouldered hawks and other raptors. Ingesting the poisoned rodents has disastrous consequences for wildlife.

Poison use in our environment can exacerbate pest infestations because it threatens our native rodent-controllers, including

941.302.4913

JoDene Moneuse

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

Michael Saunders & Company’s “Best of the Best” top performers 3174 Gulf of Mexico Dr | Longboat Key, FL 34228 | 941.383.7591 | michaelsaunders.com

343646-1

Happy Holidays Gulf Front Penthouse - Pierre on Longboat Key

455 Longboat Club Rd., Unit PH5   

2301 sq ft, 2 bed, 3 1/2 baths with two terraces  Gulfside pool & spa, private 420’ beach, 2 tennis courts Expansive Living Room/ Dining Room  24- hour concierge, guest suites, on-site management Master BR with 2 walk in closets and 2 Master baths  South Longboat Key location with nearby golf  Minutes to fine dining and shopping on St. Armands Circle and downtown Sarasota MLS A4484456 $1,450,000

Longboat Key Vacant Lot



Build your Dream Home 18,800 square feet Pedestrian easement gives direct access to beach and Gulf Centrally located between St. Armands and Anna Maria Island MLS A4460950 $1,450,000

#1 Agent in the Siesta Key Office for 28 years!

Voted Sarasota Magazine’s Five Star Agent “Best in Client Satisfaction” 14 Years in a Row Coldwell Banker - International President’s Premier Agent

Jackie

www.betsydemanio.com de MANIO Eberley

cell: 941-914-5540 betsy@betsydemanio.com

cell: 201-233-1959 Jackie@JackieEberley.com Coldwell Banker Realty Owned and Operated by NRT,LLC

gigi

SILVERBERG Luxury Property Realtor

— MIRI HARDY, SAVE OUR SEABIRDS

• 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

941.724.7228

342162-1

etsy B de MANIO

Redshouldered hawks have a very distinct call, which blue jays often imitate to frighten other songbirds away from feeding stations.

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

346768-1

 

red-shouldered hawks, that normally keep rodents in check. To protect our wildlife, we can opt to use preventative pest-control practices, such as rodent-proofing human structures, trimming foliage and tree limbs away from sides and roofs of houses, and reducing rodent attractants, such as trash, pet food, spilled birdseed and fallen fruit.

Finally, for nontoxic rodent control as well as fantastic bird watching opportunities, consider installing an owl nesting box.

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.

5809 Gulf of Mexico Drive 

Miri Hardy

CathyMeldahl@michaelsaunders.com

•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

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

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

I can start by emailing you listings today.

Contact me today

Over 25 Years Experience

941-993-3695

Broker Associate - Premier Sotheby’s International Realty

341698-1

Nightly and Weekly Rentals Available:

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

25

Happy Holidays from our family to yours!

THE BEST

Just got better

Lifetime Achievement of over $1,000,000,000 in residential real estate sales Over 100,000 satisfied customers and clients Over $52,000,000 in Closed & Pending Sales 2020

OUR EXCLUSIVE Luxury Collection

Thank you to our friends and clients for your trust and loyalty!

WE ARE GLOBAL LUXURY PROPERTY SPECIALIST Certified Broker/Associate, CRB, CRS, GRI

La Bellasara

Hundred Palms Ranch

New Construction - Longboat Key

WWW.464GGPPH9C.COM

WWW.215PINERANCHE.COM

WWW.5840GMD.COM

$4,990,000

464 GOLDEN GATE POINT PH9C | 3BR/3BA | 1HB | 6,066 SQFT Imagine a luxurious penthouse with views so captivating and vast it satisfies all your desires. Furnished and deeded with a 65' capacity boat dock.

$4,800,000

215 PINE RANCH EAST RD 2BR/2BA | 1HB | 2,321 SQFT | 9.5 ACRES Truly rare French Country home secluded on 9.5 Acres of premier buildable land. Minutes from world renown beaches, downtown Sarasota, prestigious golf and country clubs, top rated schools, and hospitals.

$4,295,000

5840 GULF OF MEXICO DR. 4BR/4BA | 2HB | 4,247 SQFT Welcome to your well-deserved paradise! Here on Longboat Key, retreat to a gorgeous, newly constructed, canal front getaway on the East side of this esteemed tropical island.

Longboat Key Estates

The Beach Residences

The Meadows

The Atrium

WWW.604ROUNTREEDR.COM

WWW1300BFD906.COM

WWW.4700WP.COM

WWW.2120HSD647.COM

$2,950,000

$2,850,000

$1,375,000

$950,000

604 ROUNTREE DR 4BR/4BA | 2HB | 4,709 SQFT Paradise found. Stunning canal front home with magnificent water views, a jet ski lift, and a waterfront swimming pool. This home is custom throughout, from the architecture, finishes, to the floor plan. Elegantly updated and complete with deeded beach access.

1300 BENJAMIN FRANKLIN DR. UNIT #906 | 3BR/3BA | 3,017 SQFT Recently renovated contemporary beachfront utopia just 9 floors up from the Gulf of Mexico's turquoise waters. Captivating views and finishes to adore!

4700 WINDSOR PARK 4BR/5BA | 4,190 SQFT Hidden Gem, just minutes away from the UTC Mall and beautiful Benderson Park, in a fabulous manicured community. Secluded on 1.3 acres of private land, this grand two-story residence built by luxury custom home builder exudes elegance with every detail.

2120 HARBOURSIDE DR UNIT #647 | 3BR/2BA | 2,309 SQFT 4th-floor residence behind the gates of Bay Isles rewards you with magnificent Sarasota Bay and Downtown views. Fully Furnished!

Privateer North

Sapphire Shores

Carlyle

Gulfstream Towers

WWW.1050LBCRD905.COM

WWW.456ACACIADR.COM

WWW.5091CREEKSIDETRL.COM

WWW.33GULFSTREAM406.COM

$800,000

1050 LONGBOAT CLUB RD UNIT #905 | 2BR/2BA | 1,290 SQFT Behind the gates of The Longboat Key Club, with full Gulf views and luxury finishes, this 9th floor condo is in a phenomenal location and can be your home for an excellent price!

$525,000

456 ACACIA DR 0.43-ACRE LOT Located West of the Trail and just South of University Parkway. Half a block to The Bay and Sapphire Shores park. This lot has the location! Photo was taken before house was torn down

$359,000

5091 CREEKSIDE TRL 2BR/2BA | 2,157 SQFT Sparkling lakeside sunsets, well maintained and updated residence, friendly wildlife and community! Just north of University Parkway, you're surrounded by golf courses and the UTC Shopping Center. WHY NOT?

INVOLVED CITIZENS

SPARCC (Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center) | Meals on Wheels | LBK Rotary Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe | Mote Marine Supporters

$354,900

33 S GULFSTREAM AVE UNIT #406 | 2BR/2BA | 1,055 SQFT Beautiful 4th floor residence, where over the treetops, you can see the Bay. Complete with sleek hardwood floors, granite countertops, and the furniture is negotiable.

Voted in the Top 12 Realtors of Sarasota, by the readers of SRQ Magazine

GLOBAL MARKETING REACH

NY Times | WSJ | Coldwell Banker International | World Properties | Trulia | Right Moves Realtor.com | Zillow | List Globally | Luxury Real Estate | Unique Homes

St. Armand's Circle Sarasota FL 34236 Follow me on:

THE LYNNE KOY GROUP

provides sophisticated real estate service with exceptional personal attention and unmatched market experience. The Lynne Koy Group can provide you with the experience you deserve. For real estate representation built on trust and client satisfaction, call now at 941-387-1824

Oliver | Alyssa | Lynne | Courtney

342898-1

443F John Ringling Blvd.

342898-1

www.TheLynneKoyGroup.com Office@TheLynneKoyGroup.com

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

LOCALLY KNOWN. GLOBALLY CONNECTED. SINCE 1976.

LONGBOAT KEY 435 L Ambiance Drive L707 The Walter Group & Steve Walter 941-232-2000 A4485796 $2,399,000

LONGBOAT KEY 775 Longboat Club Road 707 Ian Addy, PA & E. Gail Wittig 941-961-8850 A4453571 $1,349,000

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

HOLMES BEACH 512 68th Street Hannah Hillyard 941-744-7358 A4484565 $985,000

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

LONGBOAT KEY 565 Sanctuary Drive A203 Ian Addy, PA 941-961-8850 A4481722 $910,000

LONGBOAT KEY 1701 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 604 Michael Moulton 941-928-3559 A4475907 $875,000

HOLMES BEACH 107 66th Street 12 Kristi Berger & Deborah Capobianco 941-730-3801 A4452254 $870,000

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

LIDO KEY 1750 Benjamin Franklin Drive 3C Linda Thompson 941-400-0805 A4466823 $799,000

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

LONGBOAT KEY 5461 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 402 Maureen Horn 941-539-3384 A4483717 $760,000

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

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

HOLMES BEACH 101 66th Street 6 Kristi Berger & Deborah Capobianco 941-730-3801 A4452260 $595,000

BRADENTON 383 Aruba Circle 201 Hannah Hillyard 941-744-7358 A4466540 $570,000

HOLMES BEACH 103 66th Street 10 Kristi Berger & Deborah Capobianco 941-730-3801 A4452245 $567,125

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

LONGBOAT KEY 4800 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 205 Beverly St Hilaire 941-504-3303 A4485258 $525,000

BRADENTON 51 Tidy Island Boulevard Kathy Marshall 941-900-9777 A4469997 $524,999

LONGBOAT KEY 100 Sands Point Road 225 Sandi Layfield & Michael Nink, PA 941-914-2807 A4448551 $450,000

LONGBOAT KEY 6324 Laguna Drive The Walter Group 941-232-2000 A4479329 $400,000

BRADENTON 132 River Enclave Court Deborah Capobianco & Kristi Berger 941-704-2394 A4483593 $399,999

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

LONGBOAT KEY 576 Sutton Place Malihe Karimi 941-376-5099 A4485563 $379,000

LONGBOAT KEY 4390 Exeter Drive I-102 Malihe Karimi 941-376-5099 A4480405 $345,000

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

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

SARASOTA 129 Taft Drive W101 Nora Johnson & Klaus Lang 941-809-1700 A4482073 $1,850,000

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM

342291-1

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

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

RESEARCH EDITOR

A

home in Regents Court tops all transactions in this week’s real estate.

Mike and Michele McKee, of Longboat Key, sold the home at 845 Longboat Club Road to A.K.R. Sunderlin, trustee, of Longboat Key, for $16.5 million. Built in 2005, it has six bedrooms, six-and-two-half baths, a pool and 17,714 square feet of living area.

LIDO

Kevin Fulcher, trustee, and Kimberly Deme-Fulcher, of Sarasota, sold the home at 1418 John Ringling Parkway to Laura Christine Muth, trustee, of Sarasota, for $5 million. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, five-and-two-half baths, a pool and 5,314 square feet of living area. It sold for $3.25 million in 2011.

REGENT PLACE

Thomas Korman and L. Harrison Bernbaum, trustees, of Naples, sold the Unit 27A condominium at 675 Longboat Club Road to Thomas Lee Garden and Linda Sue Garden, of Gainesville, Va., for $2.9 million. Built in 1995, it has three bedrooms, three-anda-half baths and 3,564 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.27 million in 1995.

JOHN RINGLING ESTATES

George and Audrey Gaspar, of Ontario, sold their home at 263 N. Washington Drive to Arthur and Sheila Leonard, of Jamestown, R.I., for $2 million. Built in 2013, it has four bedrooms, fourand-a-half baths, a pool and 3,926 square feet of living area.

Dale Rieke and Jennifer Acheson, of Sarasota, sold their home at 210 Grant Drive to Lindall and Amber Stinson, of Nashville, Tenn., for $1.13 million. Built

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

DEC. 7 - 11

Ninety Six, S.C., sold their home at 680 Neptune Ave. to Charles Joseph Bubeck and Patricia Cruz Bubeck, of Columbia, Md., for $1.79 million. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, four-and-a-half baths, a pool and 3,251 square feet of living area. It sold for $550,000 in 2013.

ADAM HUGHES

Irving and Sorley Rosenthal, of Longboat Key, sold their Unit 706 condominium at 706 Bayport Way to Ariel Serrano and Wilmian Hernandez, of Longboat Key, for $400,000. Built in 1980, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,601 square feet of living area. It sold for $394,000 in 2002.

THE PROMENADE

Courtesy photo

The home at 845 Longboat Club Road was built in 2005 with six bedrooms, six full baths and two half baths, a pool and 17,714 square feet of living area.

in 1960, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,001 square feet of living area. It sold for $417,500 in 2012.

Dariusz and Eugeniusz Kuchar, of Gilboa, N.Y., sold their home at 229 Garfield Drive to Palmetto 201 LLC for $805,000. Built in 1952, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,233 square feet of living area. It sold for $370,000 in 2011.

BAY ISLES

Abraham Mosseri, of Bradenton, sold his home at 500 Harbor Cove Circle to Illya Trincher, of Las Vegas, for $1.92 million.

Built in 1989, it has four bedrooms, five-and-a-half baths, a pool and 5,779 square feet of living area. It sold for $995,000 in 1997.

SANCTUARY AT LONGBOAT KEY CLUB

Valerie Thayer and Harvey Thayer Jr., trustees, of Concord, Mass., sold the Unit C-408 condominium at 535 Sanctuary Drive to Gordon and Mary Jo White, of Beaver Creek, Ohio, for $1.8 million. Built in 1990, it has two bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,374 square feet of living area. It sold for $590,000 in 1990.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

F.I.P. Realty Corp. sold the Unit 609 condominium at 1211 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Peter and Mary O’Hara, of Babylon, N.Y., for $890,000. Built in 1985, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,827 square feet of living area. It sold for $875,000 in 2017.

27

REAL ESTATE

Regents Court home sells for $16.5 million

|

LIDO HARBOUR SOUTH

Joan Frances Donovan, trustee, of Naples, sold the Unit 204 condominium at 2110 Benjamin Franklin Drive to Carla Olek and Kelly Francis Josephson, of Mound, Minn., for $500,000.

Built in 1968, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,248 square feet of living area. It sold for $484,000 in 2016.

SEA GATE CLUB

Michael Ortega, trustee, of Sarasota, sold the Unit 2-F condominium at 2425 Gulf of Mexico Drive to John Pakulak and Michelle Pakulak, trustees, of Longboat Key, for $675,000.

Built in 1973, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,513 square feet of living area.

LIDO HARBOUR TOWERS

William Murphy sold the Unit 203 condominium at 1770 Benjamin Franklin Drive to Donald and Stephanie Cone, of Bradenton, for $500,000. Built in 1970, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,168 square feet of living area. It sold for $465,000 in 2017.

BAYPORT BEACH AND TENNIS CLUB

John and Alma Popa, of Stamford, Conn., sold their Unit 736 condominium at 736 Bayport Way to Donald and Ginger Levenhagen, of Indianapolis, for $560,000. Built in 1983, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,260 square feet of living area.

ONLINE See more transactions at YourObserver.com

In with the new

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

Bayfront Sarasota

MOVE-IN THIS SEASON

SALES GALLERY OPEN

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota | 941.702.2300 From the $3,500,000s TheResidencesSarasota.com

Longboat Key

The Residences at the St. Regis | 941.213.3300 From the $2,000,000’s Call for appointment. SRResidencesLongboatKey.com

COLLIER WALKER

Mark and Diane Kingman, of

South Sarasota

NEW MODEL OPEN

TOP BUILDING PERMITS

MOVE-IN READY

Sandhill Lake | 941.234.0432 From the high $400,000s SandhillLakeSarasota.com

Downtown Sarasota

Mark Sarasota | 941.234.4323 $899,000 MarkSarasota.com

These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of Dec. 11-16 in order of dollar amounts.

L O N G B OAT K E Y ADDRESS PERMIT APPLICANT 435 L’Ambiance Drive #K605 Interior alterations John and

AMOUNT $200,000

Janet Steenrod

511 Putting Green Lane

Interior alterations Jeffrey L. Tushar

$151,500

1211 GMD #505

Interior alterations Gordon and

$125,000

Ivone Meltzer

558 Bayview Drive

Robert B. Glorioso

Repair flood

WATERFRONT HOMES & HOMESITES

Bradenton Riverfront

Riverside Point | 941.201.8505 Home sites from $229,900 | Homes from the low $600,000s RiversidePointFlorida.com

Interior alterations John W. and

Northwest Bradenton

Palma Sola Bay Club | 941.216.7436 From the high $300,000s PalmaSolaBayClub.com

$114,000

damages 679 Spanish Drive S.

NEW PRICING, MOVE-IN READY

$83,662

Kristen Laviolette

1191 Bogey Lane

Interior alterations Robin Carlstein

$64,000

6989 Longboat Drive S.

Swimming pool

Heather Rippy

$52,650

660 Emerald Harbor Drive

New roof

Green Heron

$43,500

MOVE-IN READY

Edgewater at Hidden Bay | 941.966.3600 From the high $400,000s EdgewaterHB.com

Osprey Bayfront

MOVE-IN READY

Downtown Sarasota

Risdon on 5th | 941.365.1414 From the high $300,000s RisdonOn5th.com

Development 6803 GMD

Resurface pool

Beach Walk Condos

2105 GMD #3303

Sliding glass door

Mark Arrimour

and window

$40,000 $39,075

Source: Town of Longboat Key

WWW.MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM/NEW-HOMES | 844.591.4333 | SARASOTA, FLORIDA Prices as of November 2020.

342254-1

Licensed Real Estate Broker

28

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

CIRCUS GREETINGS Starting Dec. 26, Sailor Circus promises a cheerful holiday show like no other.

HARRY SAYER STAFF WRITER

T

Performers have been hard at work getting ready for the 2020 show.

Courtesy photo by Cliff Roles

here’s something about a holiday card.

They’re upbeat and cheerful with an unspoken promise that things are going to be OK. Often cheesy or campy — there’s no getting around that — cards deliver a warm message and a special feeling hard to replicate elsewhere on the calendar.

That’s the feeling the Circus Arts Conservatory hopes to capture with the Sailor Circus Academy’s new show.

Starting Dec. 26, the “Season’s Greetings” production makes its debut with a 90-minute show through Dec. 30 at its Bahia Vista Street arena. The show features more than 40 students performing aerial silk dances, acrobatics, contortion acts, juggling and trapeze.

“This is very grounded and is like comfort food,” Sailor Circus Creative Director Jared Walker said. “It’s a very traditional approach.”

The show will have segments for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, New Year’s Eve, family gatherings and more. Holiday

IF YOU GO SAILOR CIRCUS PRESENTS ‘SEASON’S GREETINGS’ When: 2 and 7 p.m.

Dec. 26; 1 and 6 p.m. Dec. 27; 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 28; 7 p.m. Dec. 29 and Dec. 30 Where: Sailor Circus Arena, 2075 Bahia Vista St. Tickets: In-person, $20, $25, $30; virtual, $25 Info: CircusArts.org

greeting cards will be displayed on screens during each act to properly represent each holiday to the audience.

It’s about time for the students, who Circus Arts Conservatory Executive Vice President and COO Jennifer Mitchell said have been eager to perform. A normal year would have the students out and about all over Sarasota, but this year has kept them home practicing online and unable to perform live.

“You would see them at Designing Women Boutique [events]; you would see them at Nathan Benderson Park; you see them at every single [event],” Mitchell said. “This year it was minimized. … The kids have wanted to get out there as much as they could.”

Sarah Catalano, a 16-year-old

Selling Sarasota Successfully

Maggie Hicks Turning Your Dreams into an Address Recently Listed Properties

Wishing you a very happy Holiday Season Pat & Tom Hanly Realtors

OLD

941-374-0976 pahanly@gmail.com

Beachplace 1145 Gulf of Mexico Dr #601 2BD, 2BA | 6th floor | Covered Parking

$999,000 Beachplace 1055 Gulf of Mexico Dr #404 2BD, 2BA | 4th Floor

$829,000

348354-1

S

Sailor Circus student, has performed for six years as a clown but hasn’t in front of a crowd since March. Practicing for the show since September has made a world of difference.

“Us being able to come here and do what we care about and hang out with our friends has made a big difference for us this year because it really boosts your mental health,” she said.

In the Season’s Greetings show, Catalano will sing for the first time. That part required a different skill set that, on top of practicing her usual gags, has been a lot of work.

“It has been a bit of a learning curve, getting used to stuff that used to be really easy,” Catalano said. “It took a little bit of extra effort, but seeing the show come together the way it is now is encouraging.”

Sailor Circus Arena has an air ionization system in tandem with the ventilation system to help mitigate COVID-19 spread. Duo and group acts will wear masks, and the audience will be asked to as well.

A streaming version of the show is also available.

“I think that when you see the show, you can really tell how all of us are excited to be here,” Catalano said. “I think when you see that in a performance, it really shines through. And I think honestly it’s going to be a big relief to people after such a crazy year.”

properties properties expertise expertise results results

EXTRAORDINARY EXTRAORDINARY

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

941.928.3559 941.928.3559 $7,600/mo Seasonal Rental Beachplace Direct Beachfront | 6th Floor Turnkey Furnished

$8,500/mo

Ready to Buy or Sell?

MAGGIE HICKS, Coldwell Banker Previews

maggiehicks201@gmail.com | 941.321.1759 Maggie has been a realtor for 30+ years and focuses on luxury residential real estate in South Florida.

325043-1

Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate

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

LD SO

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

LD SO

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

LD SO

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

201 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Ste. 1 • Longboat Key, FL 34228 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

finest finest

www.SARASOTAS SARASOTAS SARASOTAS

PROPERTIES.com PROPERTIES .com PROPERTIES .com

343004-1

Seasonal Rental Gorgeous View 3BD, 2BA

EXCEPTIONAL EXCEPTIONAL

MichaelMoulton@michaelsaunders.com MichaelMoulton@michaelsaunders.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

FORECAST

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

High: 55 Low: 41 Chance of rain: 5%

SATURDAY, DEC. 26 High: 56 Low: 45 Chance of rain: 0%

High: 65 Low: 54 Chance of rain: 5%

7:17a

5:42p

Friday, Dec. 25

7:18a

5:43p

Saturday, Dec. 26

7:18a

5:43p

Sunday, Dec. 27

7:19a

5:44p

Monday, Dec. 28

7:19a

5:45p

Tuesday, Dec. 29

7:19a

5:45p

Wednesday, Dec. 30

7:20a

5:46p

Jan. 6 Last

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.

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, Dec. 24

MOON PHASES

SUNDAY, DEC. 27

John Gangloff captured these American oystercatchers walking the beach on Longboat Key.

29

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

SUNRISE / SUNSET

FRIDAY, DEC. 25

Thursday, Dec. 24

|

Jan. 12 New

Jan. 20 First

Highs

Jan. 28 Full

Lows

9:01a 7:54p

3:13a 2:06p

Friday, Dec. 25

10:18a 8:22p

4:03a 2:44p

Saturday, Dec. 26

11:23a 8:51p 4:46a

3:17p

Sunday, Dec. 27

12:19p

3:46p

Monday, Dec. 28

1:06p

Tuesday, Dec. 29

1:46p

9:21p

5:26a

9:54p 6:04a 4:12p 10:30p

6:41a

4:39p

11:09p Wednesday, Dec. 30 2:19p

7:17a

5:12p

A REFLECTION OF NATURE’S BEAUTY 342484-1

941.355.8437 | Bradenton

CROSSWORD

941.493.7441 | www.manasotaonline.com

REACHING ACROSS THE AISLE by Hal Moore; Edited by David Steinberg

©2020 Universal Uclick

ACROSS 1 Like tropical weather 6 Confuse 11 Music box?

17 Dubai or Sharjah 20 Marketing connections 22 Solved, with “together” 23 Removes (oneself) 24 Dull time in Canada?

26 In medias ___ 27 Words before “long way” or “step further” 28 Blunder badly 29 Touchy-___ 30 Predicament at basic training?

34 Bowling feats

941.748.4679 | Venice

36 Jill Biden, ___ Jacobs 37 Round that’s downed 39 Respectful address 40 Tiny bit 43 Diana who played Emma Peel 45 Hip bones 47 Yellowstone grazer 49 ___ Vision (LensCrafters competitor) 51 Off base?

53 Kind of bear in Alaska 56 Follows 57 Coffee shop order with skim milk?

59 Plumber’s service or remuneration?

114 Like well-traveled paths 116 Earth is a pale blue one in a famous photo 117 Moo goo ___ pan 118 Words you use when you’re apprehensive?

121 Extremely insistent 123 Moved like a hummingbird 124 Bring under control 125 ___ Line (WWII fortification) 126 Eating utensils used in jug bands 127 Studio stand 128 Fresh-mouthed

KITCHEN | CABINETRY OUTDOOR PAVERS

52 Ques. response 54 Unwrap 55 White Russian ingredient 58 Guide for grading student work 60 One of the Gershwin brothers 63 Pat gently 66 Where to take off your boots 67 Bruins great Bobby 69 Mani’s partner 71 Antics 72 “Take responsiblity!”

73 Its hands are near your hand DOWN 74 Oktoberfest venue 1 Considered, as a case 75 Pizzeria fixture 2 Earth tone 77 Circled-off area?

3 Evolutionary mystery 78 Droop 4 Pique 79 Din 5 Hang down 80 Exchange 6 $$$ dispenser 81 Cash register part 7 Devil, in Spanish 82 Fellow fighter 8 Drained 83 National econ. figure 9 “___ & Stitch” 10 Noted celebrity gossip show 84 Musk of SpaceX 86 Pursue romantically 11 Tax pro 87 Attempt 12 Sum’s opposite 90 They’re better than one, 13 Hands over, like land it’s said 14 43,560 square feet 15 Piece of wax on a document, 95 ‘60s attorney general’s monogram say 99 Rum-soaked cake 16 Pushing boundaries 101 Mother ___ (native 18 Firebird roof option language) 19 Morales of “Ozark” 102 They’re attached to pet 21 One may be Freudian collars 25 GPS guesses 103 “Cool beans!”

31 Folktale 104 Second place?

32 Forensic show until 2015 61 Transmits 89 From Ireland, perhaps 105 Global legal venue, with 33 Casual pants originally 62 Not in mint condition 91 Like much expensive “The” worn by soldiers 64 Company number? produce 107 Dutch cheese 35 Became ready to pick 65 Annoy 92 Elite NFL player 38 Tried to avoid getting tagged 108 Baby ___ (“The Mandalo66 Group with pitchforks 93 As you solve this rian” nickname) 40 Factual 68 Short snooze 94 “Iliad” setting 109 iPods after Minis 41 Actor Guinness 70 Young bloke 96 “Do the ___!” (“Figure it 110 Poker pot 42 Common surface for a 71 What to do before you reap out!”)

111 Casino calculations laptop, ironically 74 Southwestern beast of 97 Tissue layer 112 Snare 43 Martini’s partner in burden 98 Toothpaste amount 113 Sub sandwich vermouth 76 Steady guy 100 Phone alert, slangily 115 Oompah instrument 44 Comic book artist 78 Upside-down “e,” phoneti- 102 Charged particle 119 SLC church cally 103 Quarterback nicknamed 45 College wall growth 120 Slippery swimmer 46 Was in charge of 80 Acting bug?

“Broadway Joe” 122 Farrow or Wasikowska 48 Mario ___ (racing video 85 Knack for tying chess 106 Beer enjoyed while game) games? watching the Stanley Cup? 88 Less tame 111 Not this or that, with “the” 50 Campfire residue

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.

“PZB KZYT BTMKZD, ETZEVT TNCSTB MBT LNH PMDK MDW SMRT CZ JKT YT, ZB CSTU WZD’C AJNCT JDWTBKCMDW GSMC N’Y WZNDH.” – PBTW GNVVMBW “Z NHECR CZGD AH DKR NHLCR PEKUDL WKR YLDWAD NHLCR ODWYD, TAHO YHLLEOAZHK, TAHO RLEUT UDAAZKU AH GZRT.”

– GDCCX OLDTAHK Puzzle Two Clue: P equals H

Sarasota

HUNDREDS OF COLORS AND STYLES ON SALE NOW!

Puzzle One Clue L equals B

CARPET

© 2020 NEA, Inc.

SUDOKU

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

©2020 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

12-24-20

CLASSIFIEDS

Thursday, December 24, 2020

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

Homes 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

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

Private Boat Lift: beach access villa/condo $399,000

Autos For Sale

REDUCED PRICE! MERCEDES BENZ 1999 For Sale- S500 (stretch) M: 136K; Asking: $6,100 OBO. Great Condition.

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

Located on Lido Key Cell 315.727.4933. Theresa

Autos Wanted

Sarasota: Built in 2010 4BED-2.5BATH Lakeview Lanai $335,000 Phillipi Gardens: $209,000

INVESTORS 3BED-2BATH

Vacation/Seasonal Rentals

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

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers

Visa/MC

Puzzle One Solution: “For some reason, people either are big fans and have to use me, or they don’t quite understand what I’m doing.”

Fred Willard Puzzle Two Solution: “I would like to end world hunger and create world peace, stop corruption, stop drugs getting to kids.”

– Kelly Preston

5360 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Suite 101

This week’s Sudoku answers

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

Longboat Key, FL 34228 Rental office 9a.m. - 5p.m. M-F Ask about our special rates!

Wagner Realty Since 1939 www.rentalsonlongboat.com

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

Call 941-726-2677

CASH FOR YOUR CAR We come to you!

Ho Ho Buys cars. 941-270-4400.

©2020 NEA, Inc.

Rentals Wanted

Furnishings

LBK/LIDO - ANNUAL Retired couple seeking rental.

1800/sq.ft.+, upscale, luxury turnkey furnished beachfront Been renting on LBK for 14 years and are considered exceptional tenants who have excellent credit.

Non-smokers with no pets.

941-387-0270.

Hobbies

GET RESULTS!

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

Call Hawley Motors, 941-923-3421.

BEAUTIFUL GLASS TOP round pinnapple table with 4 matching unholstered chairs. Light beige.

30” high 54” wide. $395. Glass cabinet: 76” x 30” x 13” deep. Perfect cond. $150. Ready for the Holidays. 941-366-7113 (ask for pictures)

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.

Local Ads at Your Fingertips Condos/Apts. For Rent

LBK TOWNHOUSE offering safety from CORONA in a closed condo. Available Jan and Feb 2021. 2 large bedrooms, Kitchen, Living, Lanai, and terrace to tropical garden, private beach, tennis, pools, and sauna. Stay safe in your house. No elevator, no common area.

Dmandalka@gmail.com

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.

VINTAGE ST. ARMANDS: 3BR/2BA, fireplace, formal living room, Florida room, 2 blocks from the Circle and beaches. furnished.

Annual Rental, negotiable. Small pets okay.

All other services included. 813-778-3252.

2020

classifieds.yourobserver.com

NEED ASSISTANCE? A LENDING HAND HOME CARE

Vacation/Seasonal Rentals

- Transportation - Meal Preparation - Light Housekeeping - Personal Care - Dementia Care - Companionship - Medical Reminders

LBK 2BD/2BA + Enclosed sleeping porch, updated, steps from private beach. $2,350 per month, includes tax. 2 month minimum. No smoking, no pets. 55+ Community. Available March and April. Call: 941-232-1357.

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 or Bayside 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.

Antiques/Collectibles

Antiques/Collectibles

HAND COLOR PENCILED ANTIQUES

This week’s Crossword answers

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

941-536-5339.

PLACE YOUR AD ONLINE TODAY

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.

classifieds.yourobserver.com

Adult Care Services

Schedule your free in-home consultation today!

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

Team Up Today With Classifieds • 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

PERSONAL CARE GIVER- Private care: Meal preparation, errands, shopping, and more.

Affordable hourly rates, available weekdays, weekends, and holidays. Temporary or long term care. Over 10+ experience. References available.

No new faces, one consistent caregiver. COVID Negative. Call Kati: 941-536-7706.

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

Excellent references. 941-773-6895.

CLASSIFIED LINE AD PRICE First 15 words .........$17.50 per week Each Add’l word ........................... 50¢

15% DISCOUNT for 4 week Run Yellow color $5 per Week Border as low as $3 per Week Call: 941-955-4888 Email: classified@yourobserver.com Online: www.yourobserver.com

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

New Construction. 941-400-2866.

Painting/Wallpapering

60

347697

$

PICTURES

in silver frames

50

$

SNOW WHITE

antique doll 78 years old.

50

$

Please Call for more info at (941) 383-8869

ANTIQUE RUSSIAN doll 78 years old.

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.

YOUR SOURCE FOR LOCAL CLASSIFIED ADS

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

31

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

INSURANCE

MIC INSURANCE

“FIX IT - DON’T REPLACE”

HANDYMAN

941-626-3194

Licensed & Insured CCC - 058059 CBC - 1253936 346417

SCREENING

• 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

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David McCarthy Moving

HOME SERVICES

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dmccarthymoving@gmail.com

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

ROGER SELLS

LUXURY WATERFRONT PROPERTIES MORE THAN $170 MILLION IN 2020

1301 MAIN STREET #802

$2,395,000

1241 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #505 $1,495,000

3070 GRAND BAY BOULEVARD #611

The epitome of downtown living! Located in the heart of the town center, The Jewel is within walking distance to the best that Sarasota offers. Sleek finishes dominate the 3BR design, while the open concept is arranged to perfectly frame the magnificent city and bay views.

Direct vistas of Gulf waves, powdery shores and sunny southern panoramas welcome you to this fifth-floor Cambridge residence at the sought-after Water Club community. Stylishly laid out, the lovely features found throughout only enhance this home’s appeal.

Sunny and airy, boasting wonderful updates! This beautifully renovated 2BR Aruba residence is in a prime corner location, offering walls of floorto-ceiling glass sliders that open to a spacious wraparound terrace. Relish panoramic bay, city and golf course views from nearly every room.

www.TheJewel802.com

www.WaterClubSouth505.com

www.GrandBay611.com

$629,000

5005 Gulf of Mexico Drive #9

128 Golden Gate Point #601B

2003 Harbour Links Drive

517 Bayport Way

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.

Sweeping bay and city views are the perfect introduction to this downtown residence. Offering 3,000 SF of living space and its own 2-car garage, this 3BR plus den layout lives like a single-family home.

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.

Turnkey furnished, this updated 2BR villa offers an extended outdoor space with its own private garden courtyard, deeded beach access and covered parking steps from the front door.

www.BonaireLBK9.com

www.VistaBayPoint601B.com

www.2003HarbourLinksDrive.com

www.517BayportWay.com

$3,595,000

BONAIRE

$1,295,000

LONGBOAT KEY

$749,000

LONGBOAT KEY

$449,000

SARASOTA

5005 Gulf of Mexico Drive #2

7149 Longboat Drive North - Long Beach

4725 Gulf of Mexico Drive #208

11 Sunset Drive #707

This brand-new beach home located directly on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico is a rare opportunity to enjoy luxury waterfront living on Longboat Key. The custom designed, 6BR layout is spread across two living levels, complemented by high-end finishes and resort-style outdoor entertaining. www.BonaireLBK2.com $6,995,000

Recent 2017 renovations at this private waterfront home include new metal roof, HardiPlank siding, impact windows/ sliders and an open coastal contemporary 3BR plus bonus room layout complemented by beach-inspired updates. www.7149LongboatDriveNorth.com $1,195,000

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

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

843 Bayport Way Turnkey furnished, 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

CASEY KEY

SARASOTA

5880 Midnight Pass Road #306 - Siesta Key

2675 Gulf of Mexico Drive #403 1588 North Casey Key Road Perfectly situated on almost three-acres on the private, gated northern portion of Casey Key, this exquisite 4BR home with a separate 2BR guest house was completely renovated and partially rebuilt. www1588NorthCaseyKey.com $10,500,000

Beautiful direct Gulf and evening sunset views are the highlight from this updated getaway. You will love the hardwood floors, newer appliances and walls of sliders that open to the screened terrace. www.Veinte403.com $999,999

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

Thoughtfully updated and turnkey furnished, you will love the convenience of moving right into this sunny 1,500 SF residence, with its open concept and upgrades throughout.

Includes covered parking. www.Casarina306.com $725,000

SIESTA KEY

1950 High Point Drive - High Point Circle

100 Sands Point Road #309 4009 Casey Key Road

342876-1

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

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. www.SandsPoint309.com $849,000

Built in 2001 by Todd Johnston Homes, this downtown 4BR waterfront residence 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.1950HighPointDrive.com $1,595,000

1715 Hyde Park Street - Hudson Bayou You will love the central “West of the Trail” locale of this beautifully updated 2,800+ SF home, just minutes from downtown Sarasota, with Siesta Key Beach within biking distance. www.1715HydeParkStreet.com $999,900

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

3975 Shell Road - Both Lots With 2+ acres of property located directly on 264’ of Siesta Key Beach frontage, this private parcel comes complete with an incredible, to-be-built contemporary residence by luxury home designer Derek Pirozzi and built by Nutter Custom Construction, as well as an additional parcel to add deep-water dock and lift. www.3975ShellRoad.com $15,000,000

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

. . . t i a W But

S ’ E R THE !

E R MO

XNLV19038

Flip the page for more sales and specials!

www.yourobserver.com/detwilers-weekly-flyer

December 10th, 17th and 24th, 2020

From Our Home To Yours...

Wishing you a Happy Healthy Holiday Season and a Prosperous New Year!

John & Judy

Gabe, Charles & Family

Steven & Family

Realtors

Realtor

Lori Lawson Realtor

Jim Ptak Realtor

Karen Lyons Nowadly

Austin Hampson Assistant

Assistant

MacDuff

Kepecz-Hays & Buky A Family Group of Realtors® Steven Kepecz

941.387.1825

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

Judy Kepecz-Hays

941.587.1700

OVER $106 MILLION SOLD & CLOSED AND OVER $59 MILLION PENDING IN 2020

346921-1

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

New Market he On T

New Market he On T

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941

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

Privateer North has every amenity. A newly updated club room with catering kitchen, a well-equipped 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!

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

e hous Pent

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

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

1211 Gulf of Mexico Drive #305 | Promenade $749,000 | MLS A4482428 | Furnished This residence is on the sunset side of the building at the Promenade. Lovely 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1,600 sq. ft. with captivating views of the Gulf of Mexico and its turquoise waters. Endless amenities, hurricane shutters and split floor plan.

Instant enjoyment.

Promenade305.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

1300 $4,00 TheB

1300 $2,67 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

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

1300 Benjamin Franklin Drive #1009 $2,900,000 | MLS A4444104 TheBeachResidences1009.com

1300 Benjamin Franklin Drive #708 $2,599,000 | MLS A4471978 TheBeachResidences708.com

1300 Benjamin Franklin Drive #606 $2,675,000 | MLS A4445110 TheBeachResidences606.com

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

Gabe Buky 941.228.6086 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

Lori Lawson 941.735.4385 LARGE

#1 TEAM

OVER $106 MILLION SOLD & CLOSED AND OVER $59 MILLION PENDING IN 2020

 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

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

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

Est. 1987

Real Patients. Real Results.

Dental Implants, Same Day & ALL-ON-4®

Before

After

Before

After

After Cosmetic, Veneers & Laser Periodontics

Before

After

Before

After

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

Advanced Care and Dental Technology at One Location Cosmetic Dentistry

Holistic Dentistry

• Bruxism Treatment • Smile Makeovers with Veneers • Conservative “No-Prep” Veneers • Nonsurgical Facelifts w/Neuromuscular Bite Correction

• Orthotropic and Airway Orthodontics for Adults • Orthotropic and Airway Orthodontics for Children • Safe Mercury Removal • Laser Periodontal Treatment with Ozone

Implant Surgery & Restoration

Facial Esthetics

• AII-On-4 • Bone Grafts/Sinus Lifts • Digitally Guided Surgery with On-Site CAT Scan • PRP Platelet-Rich Plasma • Sedation

• PDO Thread Lifts • Erbium and Nd: YAG Laser Treatments • Botox • Fillers

Call (941) 999-3205 or Visit www.SarasotaDentist.com 347159-1

Sarasota’s Accredited Dentists with Over 30 Years of Expertise

Jill Morris, DMD

Burr Bakke, DDS

Cameron Johnson, DMD

Our team at World Class Dentistry & Facial Aesthetics can treat patients with a multitude of concerns at the Sarasota facility, which maintains quality control and streamlined treatments. With a focus on individualized patient care and connection, Dr. Jill Morris, Dr. Burr Bakke, Dr. Cameron Johnson, and their on-site dental laboratory team offer implant surgery, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, biological dentistry, and more. Serving Sarasota since 1987, our team has over 60 years of combined talent and expertise. Call today to schedule your complimentary consultation or visit our website at SarasotaDentist.com.

Call (941) 999-3205 or Visit www.SarasotaDentist.com Stay Connected With Us

#WorldClassDentistry | 3951 Swift Rd., Sarasota, FL 34231 340296-1