Longboat Observer 12.9.21

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Observer

Longboat Key’s weekly newspaper since 1978

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

FREE • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

VOLUME 44, NO. 18

YOUR TOWN

Name of the game With 7-0 approval, Town Center stage is the latest signature landmark. PAGE 3

File photo

The WrightWay to save an event

AT LAWN LAST Kiwanis Club’s big event a big hit on the grass. PAGE 16

The Kiwanis Lawn Party on Dec. 4 could have easily turned into the Swamp Party if not for the work of sponsor WrightWay Emergency Services.

In the days before the Lawn Party, the Town Center Green was more damp than it should’ve been in preparation for 800 people. An irrigation line that had been inadvertently stabbed was the culprit, and Darrin Caldwell and his WrightWay team worked to remove 300 gallons of water from the green Dec. 2.

And another organization came to the rescue, as its name implies: Lawn Party Chairman Michael Garey was a couple restaurants short of his goal, so before the party, he reached out to the Longboat Key FireRescue Department.

They agreed to serve up their Red Tide chili, which was a hit throughout the day.

Courtesy photo

It takes a village

Michael Drake remembers the days when the Longbeach Village had a beautification committee.

“We had quite a few committees, actually,” Drake said.

On Nov. 12, Drake was among a group of nine Longbeach Village residents who spruced up the vegetation near the neighborhood’s welcome sign on Broadway Street just east of Palm Drive.

“Long story short, I had done that same thing about 12-14 years ago,” Drake said. “A group of us redid it, and it hasn’t been really touched since then.”

Village residents Casey Lamb, Becky Parrish, Benny Parrish, Carla Rowan, Pete Rowan, JoAnn Schwencke, Tony Roberts and Patti Lopez, though not exactly a committee, joined Drake to help improve the area around the Village entrance sign.

“It brought the old memories back, certainly for those of us that have been there for a while,” Drake said. “But even the newbies that were basically helping out, it just brings in the spirit of a community and neighborhood.”

Nat Kaemmerer

Doug Withers and event Chair Michael Garey share a smile at the Kiwanis Lawn Party on Saturday at the Town Center Green.

Big truck, deputy chief ready for action Sarasota’s fire chief coming to town, new truck decked out.

SEE PAGE 2 Courtesy photo

The Florida Forest Service, a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, approved the paint and logos on the town’s high-water vehicle.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

Longboat Key hires Sarasota’s fire chief

Town manager tells commissioners Michael Regnier will serve as assistant chief.

MARK BERGIN STAFF WRITER

M

ichael Regnier, the chief of the Sarasota County Fire Department, has accepted a conditional offer to join the Longboat Key Fire Rescue Department.

“The opportunity will allow me to spend more time with my family while continuing to serve the community,” Regnier said in a statement. “I am grateful for the support of the Board of Sarasota County Commissioners, Sarasota County administration, Emergency Services and the fire department during my time with SCFD. I’m proud of all we have accomplished together and am grateful to have served alongside the department’s incredible group of firefighter-paramedics who serve our community daily.”

Town Manager Tom Harmer said the plan is for Regnier to begin working for the town Dec. 28 with a starting annual salary of $95,000.

Regnier and Harmer worked together in Sarasota County, when Harmer was county administrator.

Regnier would fill the vacancy left

by Longboat Key Assistant Fire Chief Bryan Carr, who recently accepted a deputy chief position in Charlotte County.

“I think his extensive experience covers all aspects of the department,” Harmer said of Regnier. “He has an extensive amount of time in operations, which is kind of a specific role that he will play here. But he’s also been very active in managing responses to major emergencies, including hurricanes.”

The town has a deputy chief and two assistant chiefs. During one of three shifts, they manage day-today operations of all fire and emergency medical services. Assistant chiefs report directly to the fire chief.

Longboat Key Fire Chief Paul Dezzi explained what separated Regnier from the other three candidates the town interviewed.

Courtesy photo

UTILITY 9: RED AND READY Dezzi said it cost the town more than $15,000 to repair the electrical system of one of the town’s engines that waded through flood waters on a structure fire call.

The town has yet to use the truck known as “Utility 9” for a rescue.

The town’s high-water vehicle comes to service via the Florida Forest Service. A decal that makes clear the truck was donated by the Forest Service was part of the agreement.

The Longboat Key Fire Rescue Department’s high-water rescue truck is officially in use and dressed for the job.

Last week, the town’s 1998 Stewart & Stevenson M1078 cargo truck received its stickers, logos and a fresh coat of red and black paint to cover its previous camouflage look.

Fire Chief Paul Dezzi said getting the free truck was years in the making.

After Hurricane Eta in 2020,

“I think his knowledge and his local workings with (Sarasota County) Emergency Operations during hurricanes and stuff like that, working with dispatch services, we both understand the system, how it works,” Dezzi said.

In May 2015, Regnier accepted the offer to go from interim Sarasota County fire chief to the permanent position. He was responsible for overseeing more than 520 firefighters, emergency management technicians and paramedics during his tenure. Regnier spent more than 33

years with the Sarasota County Fire Department.

“He has a lot of respect and relationships within Sarasota County Government in general, so one of our mutual aid partners,” Harmer said. “He knows the other chiefs in the area, so I just think he’ll add a lot of value to the team here.”

Dezzi was clear when the Longboat Observer asked if he had plans to retire with the news of Regnier’s hire.

“I have no intentions of retirement,” Dezzi said. “This position was something that Chief Regnier has

File photo

Fire Chief Michael Regnier comes to Longboat Key after leading the county firerescue service, which employs more than 500 men and women.

shared with me, he was interested in. We never really had this position open to the outside in the past.”

Dezzi said Regnier is going to be responsible for marine operations, and training for the new computeraided dispatch system.

Sarasota County Emergency Services Director Rich Collins expressed his appreciation for Regnier.

“Sarasota County thanks Chief Regnier and his family for the dedicated service they have provided to the community over the last 33 years and looks forward to working with him in his new capacity,” Collins said in a statement.

Support Services Director Carolyn

Brown came to the town in 2018 from a supervisory role with Sarasota County’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources. Public Works Director Isaac Brownman came to the town in 2017 following a similar role with the county. Director of Planning, Building and Zoning Allen Parsons also came from Sarasota County, as did Town Planner Tate Taylor.

“It’s also a huge opportunity to be able to recruit someone of this caliber and experience into a smaller department here,” Harmer said of Regnier. “We’re very fortunate to be able to do that.”

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

3

Mark Bergin

Greer Island

The popular north-end spot (it’s not really an island) is named after Homer and Mary Greer, though it was Frank and Marjorie Conrad who deeded the land to the state for public use in 1974.

Frank Conrad moved to Sarasota in 1933. He died Aug. 23, 2005.

Going to the west end of North Shore Road, the Conrads owned the land to the north, and the Greers owned the land to the south.

The Manatee County Property Appraiser’s Office lists the county as the owner of Beer Can Island (the island’s listed name), with an ownership date of April 1, 1974.

However, the Longboat Key Town Commission passed a resolution in 1983 urging the county to consider changing the island’s official name to Greer Island, after Homer and

Mary Greer, though it was never actually done.

Conrad’s grandson Bill Saba disputed the notion of his grandfather wanting to develop Greer Island.

Saba said his grandfather could have chosen to seawall the area to develop Greer Island into an area similar to Bird Key. He also said his grandfather never applied for a building permit despite several contractors approaching him.

Earlier this year, Saba sought to officially name the lagoon alongside Beer Can Island as Conrad Bay, though the request to the U.S. Board on Geographic Names prompted opposition. The request ultimately was withdrawn.

Saba said he is considering making a land donation to the town if he pursues the process of naming the lagoon again.

Nat Kaemmerer

The Spanish explorers

Longboat Key has several street names that pay homage to Spanish explorers from the 1500s, including Juan Anasco Drive and De Narvaez Drive.

“What I have not only heard or read, but those were all put into place by Manatee County as a nod to the Spanish explorers that came on to Longboat Key,” Historical Society President Michael Drake said.

“Those explorers were on the same sand that we stand on today.”

Most of them were named, espe-

cially roads on the north end, before the town was incorporated in 1955.

Anasco was an officer in Hernando DeSoto’s expedition to Florida from 1539 to 1542. He is said to have come ashore in a “longboat” as part of the Spanish explorer’s search for gold along the Gulf coast.

Panfilo de Narváez was another Spanish explorer who landed in the Tampa Bay area in 1528, claiming the land he found for the crown and marching north along the coast, eventually reaching the St. Marks area.

WHAT’S IN A

?

The Town Center stage will become one of several landmarks throughout the town named after someone.

MARK BERGIN STAFF WRITER

Y

ou pass them every day, often without a thought.

A beach here, a park there. A street or two with a little Latin flair.

And soon joining them, a stage expected to be part of the community for at least half a century, named for a family that made the project financially possible.

Longboat Key leaders this week added to the list of island landmarks honoring people of the past. With

a 7-0 vote, the Town Commission approved calling the to-be-built centerpiece of the Town Center Green the Karon Family Pavilion.

Residents Paul and Sarah Karon are donating $500,000 to the Longboat Key Foundation to fund the structure’s construction.

The terms of the naming-rights agreement are: n The donation will be up to $500,000 based on the actual costs. n The donation will be made to the Longboat Key Foundation for design and construction. n The town will invoice the founda-

tion as costs occur. n If the cost exceeds $500,000, the excess may be funded by other donations or other identified sources. n The term of the naming rights is tied to the life of the stage, expected to be at least 50 years.

The stage could be ready in time for next year’s snowbird season.

Events planned at the Town Center site will operate around the stage construction.

So that’s the latest named project.

But what about those others we see daily? Take a stroll back in history with us.

Mark Bergin

Whitney Beach

Longtime north-end Longboat Key resident and former Longboat Key Historical Society President Tom Mayers said his family has lived in Longboat Key for more than 100 years.

Mayers recalls seeing Gordon and Lora Whitney around town.

“The guy was (really) successful, and he and his wife, I don’t know what his business was, but I knew these people,” Mayers said.

“It wasn’t like these were just some abstract people from ancient history.

I knew them.”

Mayers recalls how some of the initial Whitney Beach cottages, which were intended as a beachside resort, were erected in close proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. Nature had other ideas, prompting a move.

“It was just beach. That was it, and so they built these cottages there, and some of them were damaged badly with erosion,” Mayers said. “That’s why they moved them because the sand eroded away.”

Longboat Key Historical Society President Michael Drake said the Whitney Beach cottages got moved in the 1950s. “(The structure) that (the) Chiles Group bought … that was (an) origi-

nal Whitney (cottage),” Drake said.

“The Whitneys were like some of the earlier settlers, and I’m talking like late ’20s, ’30s, ’40s and ’50s.”

Drake, who moved to the town in 1986, said it is his understanding that Gordon and Lora Whitney were very involved in the community.

“They were pioneers of the whole island but mainly here on the north end,” Drake said of the Whitneys.

Drake also said the couple helped launch the now-closed Longboat Key Center for the Arts in 1952.

“They were really just trying to … not necessarily preserve Longboat but to just bring things to Longboat Key that Longboat Key didn’t have, and mainly from a standpoint of not having to get off the island because back then … before the Longboat Pass Bridge was built (in 1957), the only way onto Longboat Key was through the south side,” Drake said.

The Whitneys built 13 cypress cottages, a guest house, a tennis court, a skeet range and a family home on the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay. The couple bought 1,000 feet of beachfront property around the 6750 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive and called it Whitney Beach.

In 1968, Gordon Whitney sold his property to Paul Neal.

File photo

Joan M. Durante Park

The park is located at 5550 Gulf of Mexico Drive. The 32-acre site is the result of a private-public partnership to restore one of the remaining vacant island properties on Longboat Key to a wetland and coastal hammock forest.

James Durante (pronounced “durant”) approached the town in 1994 to offer $750,000 to develop a park and restore the property to honor his late wife, Joan.

“Joan was a real outdoorsy individual,” Longboat Key Historical Society President Michael Drake said.

The town also received a $195,000 grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to create a wetland and coastal hammock forest in the areas cleared of invasive vegetation.

James Durante died in 2007.

Drake recalls how Durante was an avid cigar smoker. In the 1980s, Drake managed the Sanctuary Con-

dominiums, where the Durantes were among the original owners.

“I spent a lot of time with Jim,” Drake said. “He was quite a character and just a wonderful guy.”

Drake recalls getting calls at the Sanctuary Condominiums office about Durante’s cigar smoke.

“Jim would leave his front door open and smoke his cigars, so that smell of cigar smoke went throughout the entire floor that he lived on, and the other two owners were just — they weren’t cigar smokers, nor did they like the smell,” Drake said.

Drake said Joan Durante Park is “a sanctuary.”

“It was one of the sites that we looked at early on to put the Historical Museum at because, again, it was a town-owned parcel,” he said.

Ultimately, Drake decided in January to move the Historical Society’s Whitney Beach historic cottage at the Town Center site.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

We are there when you can’t be.

Longboat Key town clerk hires new assistant Mark Bergin

MARK BERGIN

The Finest Local Elder Care & Lifestyle Services Provider

STAFF WRITER

Longboat Key has a new voice answering the phone and a new face greeting visitors walking into Town Hall.

Stephanie Janney, 29, started working Oct. 25 as an administrative assistant for the town clerk’s office.

Before joining the town, she served as an administrative assistant for three-and-a-half years for the town of Anna Maria.

The Longboat Observer recently caught up with Janney.

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What does it mean to work as an administrative assistant to the town clerk?

I help with the town clerk. (I) help here at the front desk. It could be recording of the minutes, recording the ordinances, resolutions, records requests. That’s a huge one is a records request. Making sure you have all the documentation for the records requests.

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HER FAVORITES

Food: Greek food Hobbies: Raising her children, Connor and Charlotte Movies: Anything with Adam Sandler in it, specifically “Happy Gilmore” and “Billy Madison” Restaurant: Ella’s at 8004 Cortez Road in Bradenton Song: “Tennessee Whiskey” by Chris Stapleton TV shows: “Family Guy” or “American Dad”

Stephanie Janney is typically the first person you see upon stepping into Town Hall.

clerk there as well, so … it was a great first experience.

What’s the strangest request that you’ve gotten?

It could just be a multitude of things. There’s a lost dog. There’s a dog wandering. (There are) things that are dropped off, (such as) someone’s license.

What’s the best part of your job?

Just being able to help. I truly enjoy interacting with the public. I enjoy being able to answer questions.

What does it mean to be the face of Town Hall?

You have to be a happy person. You have to be a people person to be in that position for sure.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

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Courtesy photo

One county commissioner suggested a run that would take riders to and from St. Armands Circle without Sarasota County stops on the northbound leg of the trip.

Longboat Key, Manatee leaders discuss island transit ideas SCAT has offered its ondemand service since June.

MCAT requires riders to make their trip reservations by 5 p.m. the day before.

MARK BERGIN STAFF WRITER

Town Commissioner Penny Gold described a common dilemma she hears from Manatee County Area Transit riders in Longboat Key. “I just wanted to mention the frustration for riders only being able to come up to Bay Isles and the supermarket area and not be able to really run the extra 5 miles, let’s say, to St. Armands Circle,” Gold said.

Longboat Key is one of four Florida municipalities in two counties, which often means different kinds of service for many government operations, including transit.

During Wednesday’s joint meeting with the Town Commission and Manatee County Commission,

Gold mentioned southern portions of Longboat Key that MCAT riders can’t access. They would need to transfer to a Sarasota County Area Transit vehicle to continue south in Longboat Key. “There’s the Longboat Key Club, there’s a lot of other condos there that have workers daily, there’s a golf course there, and it would be very helpful to have a one-county fix for transit,” Gold said.

SCAT has offered its on-demand service since June, whereas MCAT’s requires riders to make their trip reservations by 5 p.m. the day before.

When SCAT launched its ondemand system, it cut its No. 18 bus between Longboat Key and Sarasota.

“There should be some way that Sarasota (County) and Manatee could work together to get this solved,” Gold said. “Both systems are good, but they’re different, and because they’re disjointed, it really isn’t a very smooth service for Longboat Key.” MCAT Planning Manager Jonathan Roberson described conversations he’s had with SCAT and its

vendor, River North Transit LLC. “Could we, in theory, ask our commission to pay for the trips from their vendor in this geography? And Sarasota County and the vendor staff indicated to us that they couldn’t,” Roberson said. “We’d have to pay for trips. We’d have to pay for the whole zone, which goes to downtown, which goes through St. Armands and all the way to downtown. … They couldn’t parse out the trips.”

Manatee County Commissioner George Kruse mentioned how he didn’t think it was difficult to find a solution, referencing how Route 99 goes between downtown Sarasota and downtown Bradenton via Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport.

“I mean, it seems like a minor additional cost for a potential majority community benefit,” he said of fixing Longboat Key’s two-county transit system.

Kruse proposed a solution.

“We could say, southbound from Manatee, we’ll drop you off wherever you want all the way down to St. Armands, but if you’re getting

picked up down in St. Armands, our first stop is on the Manatee County side,” Kruse said. “We’re not making any up-stops because that’s (Sarasota County’s) responsibility.”

Up to 800 workers at once are expected to begin building the St. Regis development, which will be a five-star hotel and luxury condominium complex. It is scheduled to open in 2024.

“Let’s hope a lot of Manatee County residents get jobs there and opportunities because right now those are very high-paying jobs because they’re in demand,” Kruse said. “If I can help get them down there, then I’ll do it.”

Longboat Key Commissioner BJ Bishop said that public transportation is vital for St. Regis developer Unicorp to get its workers to the construction site.

“Quite honestly, if they don’t take public transportation, we don’t know where the hell they’re parking because there’s no land out there for them to park on,” Bishop said.

Bishop said she sees the transit inconsistencies as part of a bigger

issue throughout Manatee and Sarasota counties.

“Service employees can’t afford to drive to and from Longboat Key and sit in traffic for two hours when rents have gone up 50% in both counties, and you’re looking at people who are not making that much money,” Bishop said.

Longboat Key Mayor Ken Schneier said some parts of operating in two counties are “unfixable,” such as having separate property appraisers and separate supervisors of elections. However, Schneier believes transit is “fixable.”

“I don’t want to be behind the eight ball on this,” Schneier said.

“We can get a little in front, and this is not on you. This on us, and it’s on both counties to try to come up with a solution.”

Town Manager Tom Harmer said town leaders will need to meet with MCAT and SCAT. “What I heard the commission say to the administrator and to MCAT was, ‘We just got to get everyone in a room and what can we do to … figure it out,’” Harmer said.

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Please register to attend:

The request came during Wednesday’s meeting with the town and county commissions.

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MARK BERGIN STAFF WRITER

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ongboat Key Town Manager Tom Harmer recalls what his predecessor, Dave Bullock, told him when the former county administrator agreed to work for Longboat Key in 2017. “(Bullock said), ‘The one thing I lose sleep over at night is this wastewater line that goes across the bay,’” Harmer said.

Crews began water-sample testing on July 1, 2020, near the site of the sewage spill.

Harmer said he too has had nightmares about the town’s wastewater pipeline, which was built in 1973 and broke in 2020, spilling millions of gallons of raw sewage on the Manatee County side about a football field east of the bay shoreline.

“The fact that we have one single line that is almost 50 years old, that transports all of our waste to the mainland 24/7 is something you lose sleep over if you’re a manager,” Harmer said.

In response to the June 2020 break and spill, the town is satisfying a state consent order and moving forward with plans to build a parallel pipeline, and the town has asked Manatee County officials to help pay for it.

“The analysis is still going on as to

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

what the correct fix is, but at some point in the not-too-distant future, we’re going to have to put a plan together and start work and start putting contracts out,” Longboat Key Mayor Ken Schneier said during last week’s joint meeting between the Town Commission and Manatee County Commission.

Records show the town is planning to spend $21.71 million on a parallel pipeline by the end of fiscal year 2026: n Fiscal year 2022 including carryover: $13,473 n Fiscal year 2023: $0 n Fiscal year 2024: $1.4 million n Fiscal year 2025: $20.3 million n Fiscal year 2026: $0 “Right now we have $21 million that has been identified for the project,” Longboat Key Public Works Director Isaac Brownman said. “Obviously, we’re looking to refine that, and we plan to refine that lower as we get closer, as opposed to higher.”

Brownman cited the town’s increased utility rates to help fund the advancing the redundant pipeline project.

“We’re connected together,” Harmer told Manatee leaders. “I think the pipe is clearly the town’s, but we work together on managing that.”

As part of the state consent order, the town continues work on bypassing, cleaning, repairing and lining a wet well at Master Lift Station D on Gulf Bay Road, which will cost about $182,000. The town plans to spend another $100,000 to replace a 2006 backup generator at the lift station.

Town leaders opted for the projects, which had to be approved by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, instead of paying less — $188,382 — in civil penalties and costs.

Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge asked town leaders how much money they want the county to contribute.

In the short term, Longboat Key requested Manatee County match the town for an appropriation request to the state legislature worth $800,000 total.

“We’re taking this incrementally, kind of like trying to eat the elephant one bite at a time,” Harmer said.

In the coming weeks, the County Commission will decide whether to

Bradenton-based ET MacKenzie completed repair work after the town of Longboat Key’s June’s sewage break.

match the town’s state appropriation request.

Harmer said the town is looking at improving the mainland portion of the pipe, which is adjacent to the Manatee County Golf Course in Bradenton.

“There may be … some options (as) to how we may do that,” Harmer said.

“One of the options we’re looking at is potentially lining the pipe where it’d be hard to line the pipe under the bay because it’s too long.”

Manatee County Commissioner Carol Whitmore said she wanted a caveat added to any agreement.

“I would want a deal in place that says, ‘If you ever secede, you have to pay us back,’” Whitmore said.

Whitmore’s comments came as part of a larger discussion Wednesday about a state report that outlined the pros and cons if Longboat Key were to move from its current configuration as a two-county municipality to one county. A move into Sarasota County would likely mean lower county property taxes for the town’s residents who live now in Manatee County.

The town is due to receive approximately $3.65 million as part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

Harmer said the town plans to use a portion of the ARPA funding toward the pipeline project.

|

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

OPINION / OUR VIEW

LONGBOAT

Florida can lead the way on restorative justice The state should consider creating an advisory council to establish standards for restorative justice programs and help the agencies that would be involved learn best practices from each other.

File photo

Studies show a lower rate of recidivism with those involved in restorative justice.

ADRIAN MOORE CONTRIBUTOR

RESTORATIVE JUSTICE IN FLORIDA FOR YOUTH

I

recently listened to a young Florida man in prison for killing his fiance talk about what he can do to pay for his crime. He said something that really struck me. Being locked up in prison achieved the goal of punishing him, but he said it did not pay his debt to society. He movingly explained that the only way he feels he can repay his debt to society is by finding ways to make up for what his crime cost his fiance’s family, his family, their friends and their community.

In his case, that attitude is partially the outcome of something called the restorative justice process. Restorative justice is a set of policies and practices in which offenders, their victims and their families engage with one another in an attempt to create better outcomes from the justice process for all of those involved.

“The objective is to as much as possible repair harm caused by a crime, hold offenders accountable to individual persons harmed instead of merely to the justice system, involve those stakeholders in the process and ultimately reduce the potential for future harm and restore offenders to society,” a recent report from the Florida Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability] said. “Main focal points of the restorative justice approach include

Courtesy of an OPPAGA presentation

remaining victim-centered and requiring offenders to have direct confrontation with those harmed by their actions, including their own loved ones.”

In examining whether Florida should consider restorative justice programs, OPPAGA looked at 21 organizations across 15 states and reviewed the research literature on the effects of restorative justice.

The agency found that the victims of crime who participate in restorative justice programs consistently

view the criminal justice system and process as more fair to their families, have better attitudes about offenders, feel less need for revenge and suffer from fewer post-traumatic stress symptoms.

And when people convicted of crimes go through the restorative justice process, OPPAGA found, “The overall trend is reduced recidivism rates among offenders who participate in restorative justice programs compared to those who do not. Of restorative justice par-

Town Center: Great place for a party

ticipants who later reoffend, their offenses tend to be less severe.”

Florida’s use of these programs is currently limited to programs within the juvenile justice system that are practiced by a few local governments. The state’s Department of Corrections has participated in a pilot program and has a working group to create guidelines but has not yet fully embraced restorative justice. Some Floridians are trying to change that.

The nonprofit Florida Restorative Justice Association, a group of stakeholders that includes judges, law enforcement officers, lawyers, educators and activists; the Restorative Practices Interagency Workgroup, which was created by the Department of Children and Families to “promote education, awareness and capacity building of restorative practices in Florida government agencies”; and State Sen. Jeff Brandes, who has consistently worked for criminal justice reforms in the legislature, are all pushing the state to expand its use of restorative justice.

Based on its review of other states, OPPAGA recommends that Florida consider creating an advisory council to establish standards for restorative justice programs and help the agencies that would be involved learn best practices from each other.

Additionally, because Florida law currently only defines restorative justice for juveniles, it would need to expand that definition to include adults. And, ultimately, state and local governments would need to fund restorative justice programs and counselors. With programs in place, both victims and defendants would need to be informed about restorative justice options as part of the justice process and allowed to choose them if they want.

Those are all significant steps, but any approach that leads to more victims of crime feeling they’ve received justice and more offenders thinking about how they can pay their debt to victims and to society — and not just do their time — is one that will make us all safer and happier.

Adrian Moore is vice president of Reason Foundation and lives in Sarasota.

“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 President and Publisher / Emily Walsh EWalsh@YourObserver.com Executive Editor and COO / Kat Hughes KHughes@YourObserver.com Managing Editor / Eric Garwood EGarwood@YourObserver.com Staff Writers / Mark Bergin, MBergin@ YourObserver.com; Nat Kaemmerer, NKaemmerer@YourObserver.com Copy Editor / Kaelyn Adix, KAdix@ YourObserver.com Editorial Designers / Melissa Leduc, MLeduc@YourObserver.com; José Valle, JValle@YourObserver.com Black Tie Editor / Harry Sayer, HSayer@ YourObserver.com Director of Advertising / Jill Raleigh, JRaleigh@YourObserver.com Sales Manager / Penny Nowicki, PNowicki@YourObserver.com Digital Sales and Business Development Manager / Kathleen O’Hara,KOHara @YourObserver.com Senior Advertising Executive / Laura Ritter, LRitter@YourObserver.com Advertising Executives / Richeal Bair, RBair@YourObserver.com; Beth Jacobson, BJacobson@YourObserver.com; Jennifer Kane, JKane@YourObserver.com; Honesty Mantkowski, HMantkowski@YourObserver. com; Toni Perren, TPerren@YourObserver. com; Brenda White, BWhite@ YourObserver.com Classified Advertising Sales Executive / Audri Ferguson, AFerguson@ YourObserver.com Sales Operations Manager / Susan Leedom, SLeedom@YourObserver.com Sales Coordinator / Account Manager Lori Downey, LDowney @YourObserver.com Advertising Assistant / Sam Johnson, SJohnson@YourObserver.com Digital Fulfillment Specialist / Emma Burke, EBurke@YourObserver.com Tributes Coordinator / Kristen Boothroyd, Tributes@YourObserver.com Director of Marketing / Robin Lankton, RLankton@YourObserver.com Marketing Coordinator / Samantha Dischinger, SDischinger@YourObserver.com Director of Creative Services / Caleb Stanton, CStanton@YourObserver.com Creative Services Administrator / Marjorie Holloway, MHolloway@ YourObserver.com Advertising Graphic Designers / Luis Trujillo, Louise Martin, Shawna Polana Digital Developer / Jason Camillo, JCamillo@YourObserver.com Director of Information Technology / Adam Quinlin, AQuinlin@YourObserver.com Chief Financial Officer / Laura StricklandLStrickland@YourObserver.com Controller / Rafael Labrin, RLabrin@ YourObserver.com Office and Accounting Coordinator / Donna Condon, DCondon@ YourObserver.com

LAWN PARTY SPONSORS

Thank you to all of the sponsors of the 2021 Longboat Key Kiwanis Lawn Party.

Proceeds benefit the Children’s Guardian Fund.

PLATINUM n St. Regis Longboat Key Resort GOLD n Ken Schneier & Cynthia Craig

EMILY WALSH PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER

N

ow we see it.

This past weekend’s Longboat Key Kiwanis Lawn Party held on the Town Center Green gave Longboat residents a great taste, not just of the food but also of what a Town Center would mean for Longboat Key. With 800 people and 22 restaurants gathered together (see story on Page 16), the excitement from the return of one of Longboat’s favorite events was palpable.

Indeed, you could see and feel what has been a long-discussed vision: to have a designated space on the island for people to gather.

With the Town Commission’s 7-0 approval this week of naming the Town Center stage for Paul and Sarah Karon’s $500,000 donation, the Town Center concept is moving forward.

Wait, there’s more. The stage is

Nat Kaemmerer

The Longboat Key Kiwanis Lawn Party was the largest event held to date at Longboat’s new Town Center Green.

not the only thing planned for the site. Former Commissioner Irwin Pastor shared at the event that Temple Beth Israel is working with the town and Longboat Key Foundation to move the Longboat Key Education Center to a community center on the site.

The Lawn Party set quite a precedent for future events there, and one couple — Michael and Catherine Garey, proprietors of Longboat eateries Lazy Lobster and Tyler’s Gourmet Ice Cream — set a high bar.

The Gareys served as chairs — once again! — of the Lawn Party.

Garey also serves as the Longboat Key Kiwanis president. The two did an exceptional job organizing the

event. Believe us, it’s a big job.

They secured sponsors, coordinated the marketing efforts, recruited 22 restaurants, secured prizes for the raffle, sold raffle tickets, arranged all the vendors and rentals, coordinated volunteers from Cardinal Mooney High School, carted tables and chairs for the setup and breakdown, and probably 100 more tasks that we’re forgetting to list here.

It was one of the most successful Lawn Parties ever with 800 guests and the total revenue raised in the raffle netting $55,000.

Longboat Key is lucky to have so many legends, and Michael Garey is one of them.

The next time you see him, be

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sure to share your appreciation.

At the same time, we’re looking forward to what more is in store for the Town Center Green.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

We want to hear from you

Life is full of gems — and boulders — that we experience every day. And in the Observer’s new column, Rants & Raves, we want to hear about both. But we need your help.

This column will be an open, anonymous community hub for comments where you can share what’s going great and also what you think is not so great. Want to give someone a shoutout for helping you change a tire in the rain? That would be a rave. Unhappy about the new traffic pattern to accommodate a roundabout in progress? That would be a rant — and probably a popular one, at that.

There are two ways to submit your rant or rave: Leave a message with whatever you want to say on our voicemail at 366-3468, ext.

798, or email us at RantsAndRaves@YourObserver.com.

We can’t wait to hear what you have to say.

Matt Walsh. His almost full-page editorial against vaccinating children from COVID was incredibly irresponsible. He is entitled to his opinion, but he should not be given that space to incorrectly influence parents and caregivers. There is too much disinformation and ignorance in the world, and his piece contributed to that.

According to the sign at the St. Armands garage, you can park TWO HOURS for ONE PENNY. Not a bad deal!

nnn

2022

I would like to both rave and rant about the Observer newspapers. I have been a longtime loyal reader.

I appreciate your local community focus and how you cover the many events and activities around here.

However, I am appalled by the politics expressed, especially by

There are three things that would improve the 41/Gulfstream roundabout under construction: One, for traffic heading south on U.S. 41 and exiting to the islands, put a yield sign just before vehicles go onto the Ringling bridge; three lanes of exiting traffic are merging onto the bridge’s two lanes, and without a yield sign, there have been accidents.

Two, I was sitting in a long line of cars from U.S. 41 North exiting onto the islands. An ambulance approached from the rear for an accident at the start of the Ringling bridge (see #1 above). The cars in front of the ambulance had nowhere to go to let the ambulance pass because of concrete barriers on both sides of the exit lanes. So, the ambulance finally turned off its siren and lights, sat in the line of traffic for more than five minutes and finally could reach the accident scene.

Perhaps the traffic signals could be programmed so fire and police can temporarily operate the signals from their vehicles to keep traffic moving when necessary. I’ve seen this technology used elsewhere.

TUESDAY, NOV. 30

SOMEONE LEFT HOME WITHOUT IT Police headquarters Found property: A police department employee, checking the department suggestion box outdoors, found a premium credit card that someone had apparently found and turned in after hours. After no local address for the person connected to the card could be found, the issuing company was notified, and the card was shredded.

Three, finally, for traffic headed northbound to exit onto the islands, there’s a huge electronic sign at the Ringling Drive intersection that says “WRONG WAY DO NOT ENTER.” This warns northbound motorists to not enter the old U.S. 41 North lanes and instead jog left onto the new exit lanes. But the sign is pointed directly at these drivers, so most hesitate thinking they can’t really take the exit. There are already barriers up preventing drivers from going onto the old lanes, so the sign is probably not necessary, particularly if they’d add some blinking yellow lights at the existing barriers.

MONDAY, NOV. 22

BLOCKING THE ROAD 2:52 p.m., 4900 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Traffic hazard: An officer issued a verbal warning to the driver of a truck he found parked partially in the roadway to deliver furniture to a residence. In addition to the warning, the officer had the driver move the truck to a safer location.

nnn The flights over Longboat Key are increasing in number. The noise is increasing. There’s got to be a way to fly down and around up the Gulf without having to disturb Longboat Key.

TUESDAY, NOV. 23

EXCHANGING INFORMATION 2:37 p.m. 4600 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Citizen assist: Police responded to the scene of a collision between two vehicles on private property. Both drivers had already exchanged information before the officer arrived and declined an official Longboat Key Police driver exchange form. The drivers needed no more assistance from police.

nnn Please, remove your editorials.

There’s way too much editorializing in general, and we don’t need any more in the local paper. Make your paper more user friendly for EVERYONE.

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 24

BUT WHAT KIND OF ALARM? 5:47 a.m., 600 block of General Harris Street Alarm: An officer on patrol discovered an audible alarm coming from a town building and found a door unlocked. In securing the premises, it was learned the alarm had been a fire warning. Elements of the fire-rescue department arrived and determined the alarm was false.

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RANTS & RAVES

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

Photos by Nat Kaemmerer

Irv and Doris Ross successfully light one of the menorahs.

Barbara Mazer sings while Rabbi Brenner Glickman leads attendees in movements.

Seaside Hanukkah for Temple Emanu-el

Longboat Key residents Jay and Sally Steele, Harold and Sherri Kaufman, and Terry and Sam Roth

Rabbi Brenner Glickman offers donuts to attendees.

Right: Longboat Key residents Bunny Skirboll, Jimmy Granite and Betsy Granite Far right: Sam Roth reads the handout of Hanukkah songs.

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It was the first year the temple has done a Hanukkah event on the beach, Glickman said, but due to the pleasant evening and strong turnout, it’s likely it will host another.

Barbara Mazer, who led the congregation in music at times during the pandemic, played several Hanukkah songs and got the whole crowd singing. As the sun started to sink below the horizon, and the fourth night began, the event’s hosts lit the three menorahs on the table. Much as friendly helpers tried to guard the flame of the shamash candle from the evening breeze, the candles stubbornly refused to light for very long.

—NAT KAEMMERER

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The Lido beach event was just one of 10 Hanukkah events the Sarasota temple is putting on throughout the duration of the holiday, which started Nov. 28. There were about 40 people who headed down to the sand for the event, and Rabbi Elaine Glickman and Rabbi Brenner Glickman encouraged them to introduce themselves to someone they didn’t know.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

Cigar bar plans St. Armands location A proposal for a new business on the Circle drew questions from neighbors concerned about the smell.

DAVID CONWAY DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR

FAM I LY

S

t. Armands stakeholders who participated in a virtual meeting about a cigar bar proposed for the Circle had one main question for the applicant: Can you control the smell?

Last week, representatives for Cigar Paradise Corp. held a community workshop to discuss plans to open a shop in a 1,250-square-foot space at 354 St. Armands Circle. The proposed hours of operation for the business are 9 a.m. to midnight daily.

Although the proposal includes a 12-seat bar and lounge with beer and wine sales, Cigar Paradise Chief Operating Officer Kody Johnson said the business would focus primarily on retail cigar sales. Application material filed with Sarasota said Cigar Paradise projects 80% of its revenue will come from cigars and accessories. The store would also sell gourmet coffee.

Eric Seace, the owner of Dream Weaver Collection, a clothing store located near the proposed site of Cigar Paradise, said the business likes to keep its doors open because it’s more conducive for attracting customers. He expressed concern that the activity from a neighboring cigar shop might be detrimental for customers or for merchandise.

“Who determines if the smell is considered a nuisance?” Seace said.

Rachel Burns, the executive director of the St. Armands Circle Association, said other members of the merchant group had raised questions similar to the ones Seace posed.

Yaite Ruiz, a vice president with Cigar Paradise, said the business is accustomed to having neighbors who are sensitive to the potential negative

Family Owned.

Family Focused.

Courtesy photo

effects of cigar smoke. Cigar Paradise has locations in Madeira Beach in Pinellas County and downtown St. Petersburg. So far, the stores have coexisted peacefully.

“Mainly because we spend a lot of money doing the HVAC system,” Ruiz said.

Ruiz said Cigar Paradise had no intent to apply for a sidewalk cafe permit and would keep the door to its business closed at all times.

Bruce Franklin, a land use professional representing the applicant, said that Cigar Paradise had reached out to the nearby Kingston Arms condominium complex to keep residents apprised of the plans for the property.

Representatives for Cigar Paradise, whose St. Petersburg location is pictured above, said the store would focus its business on retail cigar sales. Beer, wine and coffee would also be available.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

13

Decking the Circle with good cheer

S

t. Armands Circle Holiday Night of Lights ignited the holiday spirit on Friday night.

Within the inner park at the Circle was a party. A section of road in front of the massive tree was blocked off, and hundreds of visitors stopped for photos and selfies throughout the evening.

New Sarasota dance school Future of Dance put on several performances of wintry dances, Rise Above performed dances, Sarasota Academy of the Arts students caroled the night away, and Santa and Mrs. Claus sat waiting for photos. The Boys & Girls Clubs was also accepting unwrapped gifts.

—NAT KAEMMERER Photos by Nat Kaemmerer

Top: Henry, Chris, Abby and Nora Hincker Above: Brooke Thompson, Chloe Wainkein, Ava Osborne, Abigail McNulty and Courtney Cripes from Future of Dance Left: The Clogging Clovers tap the pavement around the Circle.

Top: Santa and Mrs. Claus were available for photos all evening.

Above: As the sixth night of Hanukkah fell, the corresponding candle on the menorah was lit.

Left: Jessica, Sawyer, Oliver, Harlow and Steve Moore

Stacey Maloney Attorney at Law, M.B.A.

ESTATE PLANNING & ADMINISTRATION (WILLS & TRUSTS) PERSONAL INJURY, & PROBATE

Every evening from November 28th through January 2nd at dusk until 9:00 pm, the lush and peaceful Friendship Garden at the Longboat Island Chapel will be enhanced with holiday music, lighting, and decorated Christmas trees donated by community organizations, businesses, and friends. On selected evenings, come celebrate the holidays with special musical presentations, refreshments, and treats for the children with performances beginning at 6:00 pm.

Harry's Restaurant - Holiday Reservations Suggested Make Your Reservations Here

Harry's Gourmet Deli

11 AM-7PM Take-out/Curbside Pickup

- Christmas Dinner To Go Ham or Turkey - New Years Eve Dinner To Go Three Course Dinner for Two - 20% Off Retail Wine Wed. & Thurs.

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91 9- e939-t 3o -6d39a65y9 5 C o n t 9a 4c 91t 4- m

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December 12th

Peter Simms & Jane Hoffman Guitar & Flute

December 15th

Christmas Caroling Led by Charlie Shook, Pastor Emeritus Santa will make a surprise appearance!

December 20th

Dinah Piotrowski & James Scherz Violin & Accordion Duo

December 22nd

ADMISSION IS FREE Just bring your holiday spirit and celebrate the season with us!

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14

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About a dozen menorahs light up the front table at the temple.

Temple Beth Israel celebrates Hanukkah

ENCLOSED STORAGE

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Photos by Nat Kaemmerer

Above: Karen Gary lights her menorah.

Below: Bob Gary, Nancy Eisenstat, Rabbi Michael Eisenstat and Bunny Skirboll

here was a “latke” joy at Temple Beth Israel on the sixth night of Hanukkah. This year, it fell on Dec. 3 and brought the temple’s congregants together in the biggest event since before the pandemic.

About 100 people came for dinner and Shabbat services, and several families brought their menorahs to contribute to the night of light. About a dozen menorahs tall and tiny lined the table at the front of the room, and everyone came to light theirs before Rabbi Stephen Sniderman lit the Shabbat candles.

Attendees mingled before finding their seats with their friends and awaiting the buffet dinner that waited in the wings. The Beth Israel Women made cookies and desserts for Hanukkah, and of course, trays of latkes were rolled out as the dinner began.

Following dinner, the congregation attended Shabbat services.

—NAT KAEMMERER

778.5622

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

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15

Courtesy photos

Above: The Zigzag House’s name comes from its iconic roofline, designed in the 1950s.

Left: The Zigzag House is located on Westway Drive in Lido Shores, between Longboat Key and St. Armands Circle.

Iconic 1950s Zigzag House for sale in Lido Shores WHAT SCHOOL?

ERIC GARWOOD MANAGING EDITOR

A

n iconic home with an unusual nickname and a heritage steeped in local architectural history is now on the market with an asking price of $3 million.

The Zigzag House, which refers to its distinctive roofline, was built in 1959 and underwent extensive renovations to bring back authentic features and install modern upgrades.

It is listed by Lisa Rooks of Premier Sotheby’s International Realty’s downtown Sarasota office.

The property, at 1332 Westway Drive, is in Lido Shores, not far from St. Armands Circle and Longboat Key. Just down the street on Westway Drive is the Umbrella House, another restored example of the design influ-

Not a learning institution but rather a style, the Sarasota School of Architecture is a series of design influences from around the early 1950s to the mid-1960s. It is characterized by open floor plans, large windows to facilitate natural light and ventilation, and geometric designs.

Ralph Twitchell is credited with developing the style that also influenced the designs of Sarasota-area landmarks including Sarasota High School, Riverview High School, the Umbrella House and the Siesta Key beach pavilion.

The Sarasota Architectural Foundation was created in 2003 to increase public education about the Sarasota School.

ences seen in the Zigzag House.

Designed by Ralph and Tollyn Twitchell during the area’s iconic mid-century modern movement, the home’s Sarasota School of

Architecture style sets it apart, even from other buildings designed to the same calling.

The focal point is its sawtooth roofline, built to resemble contemporary warehouse designs.

After undergoing a series of renovations over the years, Seibert Architects undertook a project to return the home to its original open living plan.

Seibert’s work was recognized nationally in 2020 by the American Institute of Architects and American Registered Architects.

“This architectural masterpiece is a true work of art showcasing timeless charm and modern efficiency,” Rooks said in a prepared statement.

“The discerning buyer will appreciate its historical significance, contemporary appointments and desirable location just moments from St. Armands and downtown Sarasota.”

The interior of the home is appointed with polished concrete floors and walls of windows.

The home offers four bedrooms that border an interior lanai space.

According to county tax records, Thomas R. Conklin purchased the property in 2004 for $1.08 million.

Temple Beth Israel

5 Ways to Worship at All Angels All Angels Episcopal Church | 563 Bay Isles Rd

The Center of Jewish Living on Longboat Key

• Indoor worship service this Sunday at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m.

Please join us for Friday Evening Shabbat Services at 7:30pm each week in our Sanctuary, and morning Shabbat service & Torah Study at 10:00 am every Saturday.

Check our website for more information on upcoming events & programs, including the NEW Education Center at TBI offerings!

If you’d like to join our mailing list, send an email to offi ce@tbi-lbk.org to stay up to date!

• Live-stream - go to AllAngelsLBK.org to watch on-line • Zoom service - join meeting number 595-570-1807

Due to the rise of Covid cases in our area, we will require masks & encourage social distancing until further notice.

• Walk-up Church - listen to the service outside

941.383.3428 | www.tbi-lbk.org

368154-1

An Ecumenical Church that Welcomes all People Founded in 1956

368112-1

• Drive-in Church - tune your car radio to 107.5

941-383-8161 • www.AllAngelsLBK.org

Above: The home offers about 3,400 square feet of living space.

Below: The swimming pool is saltwater.

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

RABBI STEPHEN L. SNIDERMAN, D.D.

567 Bay Isles Road • Longboat Key, FL Growing in Jesus’ Name

368182-1

Acclaimed Zigzag House is an authentic example of the style known as the Sarasota School of Architecture.

Worship With Us at Our Church Sunday Service 10:00 AM The Rev. Dr. Norman Pritchard Masks Are Optional

Watch Our 10:00 AM Service Live:

www.bit.ly/cclbksermons or www.christchurchlbk.org (follow YouTube link)

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

Follow us on Facebook • www.longboatislandchapel.org

The Lord’s Warehouse is OPEN Monday, Wednesday and Saturday from 9am -1pm. Closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

St. Armands Key

LUTHERAN CHURCH

JOIN US FOR SATURDAY EVENING WORSHIP AT 5PM SUNDAY WORSHIP AT 9AM AND 11AM

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Sunday December 12th: Artist Paul Oman | Live Painting at 9 & 11am SAKLC Speaker Series: Paul Oman “Christian Art at Christmas” | December 12th @ 4:00pm St. Armands Key Lutheran Church • 40 North Adams Dr., Sarasota, FL • 941.388.1234 • Questions? Contact: michael@saklc.com

St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church

368175-1

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

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

SUMMER MASS SCHEDULE Saturday: 5:00 PM Sunday: 8:30 & 10:30 AM Daily Mass at 9:00 AM- Monday through Friday Confessions after daily Mass or by appointment Rev. Robert Dziedziak, Pastor

Special Christmas Messiah December 12 at 10:00 AM

Christ Church is pleased to feature the Christmas portion of Handel's crowning achievement. Our Chancel Choir, professional soloists and orchestra will present this joyful holiday event during our regular Sunday Service.

Visitors & Residents Welcome • Free Event 6400 Gulf of Mexico Dr.

•

941.383.8833 (office)

•

www.christchurchlbk.org

368126-1

368250-1

or worship with us online at saklc.com/live or on Facebook

Classifieds 26 Games 25 Real Estate 21 Weather 25

DECEMBER 9, 2021

YOUR NEIGHBORS Adam Hughes celebrates after winning a lobster dinner for 12 at the Lazy Lobster.

LIVING

LARGE AT THE LAWN PARTY

Photos by Nat Kaemmerer

Chuck Wittall and Svetlana Ivashchenko draw raffle winners.

The fundraising event, which was canceled in 2020, returned to the new Town Center Green in 2021.

NAT KAEMMERER STAFF WRITER

T

368077-1

he Kiwanis Lawn Party has long held the title of biggest fundraiser and biggest social event on Longboat Key. On Dec. 4, the 2021 party earned a new superlative: Biggest Town Center Green event to date.

After a year off due to the pandemic, the event came back with a boom with 800 people at the new Town Center Green, an idea Longboat Key leadership has had for years that is finally coming to fruition.

“My dad would be so happy to see this,” Suzy Brenner, daughter of late town commissioner and vice mayor Dave Brenner, said. “He really believed in a town center on Longboat Key. He would be thrilled.”

Brenner was one of more than 800 people at the inaugural event on the Town Center Green, which is on Bay Isles Road behind Publix, and spent the day visiting food booths and taking in the new town venue. In the center was a massive tent that held hundreds of people at tables, and around the edges were 22 restaurant booths, several wine booths and another tent for seating.

“The energy is definitely very excited,” Children’s Guardian Fund Executive Director Svetlana Ivashchenko said. “I didn’t know what to expect. It’s been a while since we’ve had an event like this. I’m grateful for everyone who came out; a lot of kids are going to be helped from this.”

With 22 restaurants represented, lines stayed short as attendees were able to wander up, grab a small plate and head to one of the other 21 booths. Despite the crowd, attendees said the Town Center Green venue never felt overly congested.

“I’m impressed because I thought it was going to be smaller, but it’s very organized and well done,” said Longboat Key resident and seasoned Lawn Party-goer Jennifer Allen.

Several booths, including Chickfil-A and Viento Kitchen and Bar, ran out of food over the course of the afternoon and closed up shop a bit early. The Longboat Key Fire Department was a hit new “restaurant” represented this year and served its firefighter chili with all the fixins, while Euphemia Haye, which has been at the Lawn Party since its inception, served up Chef Ray Arpke’s famous Caesar salad. At the Harry’s Continental Kitchens table, the Christensens visited with customers new and old. They’ve also been part of the Lawn Party since the beginning.

“Over the years, there were years it was so congested that you’d have a line, so now it’s easier for customers to not have to wait in a line and just be able to grab their stuff,” Lynn Christensen said.

Though the party was scheduled to end at 2 p.m., the festivities stretched out a bit longer. Emcee Andrew Vac began calling up the Children’s Guardian Fund speakers right around 2 p.m., and the raffle winners were announced just after the hour.

Monica Verinder took home the grand prize 50/50 pool, which had risen to a take-home of $27,000 over the course of the day. The Doris M. Carter Family Foundation also put $20,000 toward Children’s Guardian Fund’s take-home, bringing the total from the raffle to $47,000. The money will go toward the foster children served by Children’s Guardian Fund, particularly toward tutoring for the children.

Michael Garey update the raffle prize money count.

Lynn Larson sold more raffle tickets throughout the afternoon.

Above: Kelly Erdmann from Nothing Bundt Cakes Right: Blues Pig played the Lawn Party again.

Donna Letcher, Rick Konsavage, Brittney Konsavage, Carol Jensen and Steve Jensen

YourObserver.com

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

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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

ST JU

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

Talking it out at St. Armands Key Lutheran Church The first speaker was former U.S. Sen. Byron Dorgan, who discussed bridging the gap between parties.

COMING NEXT The next event will be at 4 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 12 with artist Paul Oman.

There are two others planned for now, one at 5 p.m. Jan. 10 with Lutheran World Relief and one at 4 p.m. April 21 with Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

Each speaker’s session will be on the church’s website until the next speaker series starts, so you can watch it even if you aren’t available during the session. Visit SAKLC.com/ Speakers for information.

NAT KAEMMERER STAFF WRITER

A

t St. Armands Key Lutheran Church, the first installment of the speaker series pulled no punches. Former U.S. Sen. Byron Dorgan, a senior fellow at the Bipartisan Policy Center, spoke on Nov. 15 about the modern challenges in government and increasing polarization.

“Somebody said to me: ‘Why? Why are you starting this series with a talk about politics? That’s so polarizing,’” Congregation President Steve Gunderson said. “Because this is when Byron Dorgan was available.”

The event served them well. It was the church’s largest group ever for a speaker, with 45 live audience members and another 45 livestreaming.

“We wanted the first series to be successful but diverse,” Gunderson said. “If you don’t like X, then you might like Y. We discussed what might be good topics, speakers that might be compelling and people we had a connection with.”

The speaker series was developed by the church task forces, and the post-pandemic task force was responsible for this idea.

“This was a very energetic group that looked at where we want to be in the future,” Gunderson said. “One task force member said that we do a lot well, but we could do more to engage with the community around us. … I don’t think there was one person who said (the speaker series) was my idea. It evolved from the group.”

Dorgan, a Democrat who served 12 years in the House and 18 in the Senate in the long-held Republican state of North Dakota, was the first speaker. Rev. Ken Blyth began with a prayer asking God for “eyes to see, ears to hear and hearts to understand.”

Nat Kaemmerer

Former U.S. Sen. Byron Dorgan served with SAKLC Congregation President Steve Gunderson on Capitol Hill.

Gunderson, a former representative from Wisconsin who was in Congress at the same time as Dorgan and knew him well, introduced the man before he took the lectern.

Dorgan gave a brief overview of his own background growing up in a rural North Dakota town in which shops on Main Street closed for local funerals and there were nine students in the graduating high school class. As he came up in the political world, he kept sight of the most

vulnerable and overlooked residents of his state and advocated for Native Americans throughout his career.

Although he and Gunderson were across the aisle from each other, they worked together several times throughout their careers.

“We served at a time when people wanted to work together,” Dorgan said. “It didn’t matter what party you were from. This wasn’t about your political party. It was about your country and about your state

and what you could do to invest in what you could do to make things better in your state. … Congress has changed dramatically. It has changed in ways that Steve (Gunderson) and I would have never knew back when we served. There’s a volume and an anger and a disrespect about things that I never expected. And some of it comes from social media.”

Rather than run through the laundry list of stances on current issues in the country, Dorgan’s initial discus-

sion focused on important moments throughout his career that made him proud to be an American, including advocating for the Indian Health Care Improvement Act within the Affordable Care Act and when he heard from a French politician about the impact and relief Americans brought to the French during World War II. Afterwards, he took questions, which most often related to the difficulties of holding office as a Democrat in a historically Republican state, the importance of civil discourse and the changing nature of American politics. In his experience, members of the two parties got together on the weekends in Washington, spoke as humans to each other more often and were more willing to compromise.

“That has not been the case in more recent years, and it’s a group of people who have decided that we’re going to tell the American people, ‘You don’t have to compromise, and we’re not intending to compromise,’” Dorgan said. “Well, the fact is, compromise is the lubrication of democracy. If you feel very differently than I do on something, it’s important that we talk and we respect each other, and we see if there is some little movement, at least a move down the road in the right direction.”

Jeff Rhinelander Courtney Tarantino

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YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

19

REID MURPHY PRESENTS

LUXURY ON THE WATER BUYING or SELLING Call Reid for a successful real estate experience!

941-232-3304

LONGBOAT KEY WATER CLUB

$3,795,000

Arlington floor plan, direct Gulf-front, 3rd floor, South Tower 3BR/3.5BA 3,500sf premier condo. Elevator to private-foyer. Luxurious, resort-style ammenities w/24hr staffed gated-access in the heart of Longboat Key. Minutes from great restaurants, shopping, golf, marinas, Mote Marine, St. Armands Circle & downtown Sarasota.

LONGBOAT KEY BAYFRONT ESTATE Rare opportunity. Update to your liking with a remodel, or build your dream home!

Oversized Bayfront lot, 100ft on the bay w/ side canal for privacy plus. Elevated separate guest house w/ parking below is a bonus structure no longer permitted for new builds. Beach access across the street. $6,595,000

SARASOTA PENTHOUSE Downtown Ritz Carlton 3BR Ensuite Residence.

Magnificent 4,276 sf open floor plan. Spectacular views. World class amenities. $5,875,000

LONGBOAT KEY POSITANO Beautiful first floor walk-out with private pool. Open plan w/expansive terrraces. Gulf of Mexico & beach views from floor to ceiling windows. $4,100,000

HOLMES BEACH ISLAND PARADISE Gulf front. Furnished 3BD/2BA open plan in this six unit complex with great rental opportunities. $1,125,000

LONGBOAT KEY GULFFRONT Beachfront 3BR/3BA 4,200sf recently renovated two story home w/ attached garage sits on 0.49 acres on north Longboat Key. $6,395,000

LONGBOAT KEY BONAIRE Steps from the beach, West Indies style 4BR/5BA home in Bonaire community.

Professionally decorated and fully furnished.

Fabulous views from multiple porches & rooftop deck. $3,695,000

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SOLD

LONGBOAT KEY GRAND MARINER Bayfront 3BD/4BA, second floor 2,928 SF. Deep water dock with power, water, pump station & 20,000 lb. lift. Privately coded elevator & 2 car garage. $2,295,000

LONGBOAT KEY NEW BAYFRONT Exceptional new construction 3BD/4BA custom home with spectacular bay views.

Open plan. Outdoor living space includes heated pool & spa, boat dock with lift. $8,700,000

Developers Realty Inc. Lic. Real Estate Broker

www.ReidMurphy.com

595 Bay Isles Road Longboat Key, FL 34228

368133-1

CALL REID TODAY! | 941.232.3304

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

SARASOTA 401 Quay Commons 1903 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 6,131 Sq. Ft. Nora Johnson & Klaus Lang 941-809-1700 A4513907 $11,250,000

SARASOTA The Ritz-Carlton Tower Residences, Penthouse 1701 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 5,251 Sq. Ft. Beth Afflebach & Joan Dickinson 941-737-1756 A4500204 $5,690,000

LONGBOAT KEY 25 Lighthouse Point Drive 4 Beds 6/1 Baths 6,025 Sq. Ft. Sherri Mills 941-350-7112 A4503359 $5,200,000

BRADENTON 8415 Broadstone Court 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 5,189 Sq. Ft. Stacy Haas 941-587-4359 A4515827 $4,395,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 112 Mangrove Avenue 4 Beds 2/1 Baths 3,577 Sq. Ft. Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4502423 $4,150,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 867 N Shore Drive 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,507 Sq. Ft. Kathy Marshall 941-900-9777 A4512601 $3,199,000

SARASOTA 473 Partridge Circle 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,226 Sq. Ft. Drew Russell 941-993-3739 A4511642 $3,095,000

SARASOTA 500 S Palm Avenue 101 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,830 Sq. Ft. Marybeth Flynn 941-704-1477 A4517329 $3,000,000

SARASOTA 1233 N Gulfstream Avenue 602 2 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,780 Sq. Ft. Barbara May 404-822-9264 A4506289 $1,675,000

LONGBOAT KEY 647 Marbury Lane 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 2,651 Sq. Ft. Sandi Layfield 941-914-2807 A4503569 $1,599,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 2719 Gulf Drive 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,119 Sq. Ft. Melinda Alvarez 941-704-0633 A4506596 $1,549,900

LONGBOAT KEY 1445 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 303 2 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,982 Sq. Ft. Jonathan Fox & Susan Fox, PA 941-544-6649 A4515949 $1,330,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 231 64th Street 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,206 Sq. Ft. Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4518052 $1,100,000

LONGBOAT KEY 1445 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 201 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,274 Sq. Ft. Kathy Callahan 941-900-8088 A4504369 $999,900

BRADENTON 1523 1st Avenue W 4 Beds 3 Baths 3,500 Sq. Ft. Fran DeDona & Pam Goodwin 941-812-5023 A4505327 $999,750

LONGBOAT KEY 100 Sands Point Road 323 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,941 Sq. Ft. Peter Salefsky & Rachelle Golden 941-724-5107 A4517962 $995,000

LONGBOAT KEY 656 Tarawitt Drive 10,799 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy, PA & Gail Wittig, LLC 941-961-8850 A4518192 $950,000

BRADENTON 3912 Plumosa Terrace Street W 2 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,679 Sq. Ft. Pam Goodwin & Fran DeDona 941-812-0754 A4517658 $899,000

SARASOTA 512 Laurel Park Drive 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,423 Sq. Ft. Phyllis Garfinkel 941-302-6400 A4514157 $875,000

SARASOTA 1518 Bel Air Star Parkway 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 3,475 Sq. Ft. Cheryl Roberts 941-266-1450 A4506654 $835,000

LONGBOAT KEY 4440 Exeter Drive N106 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,168 Sq. Ft. Malihe Karimi 941-376-5099 A4517403 $618,500

BRADENTON 1311 Water Oak Way N 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,978 Sq. Ft. Kathy Valente & Gregory Zies, LLC 941-685-6767 A4514981 $499,000

BRADENTON 112 65th Street Court NW 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,648 Sq. Ft. Leah Secondo 941-545-4430 A4518913 $349,000

PALMETTO 2915 8th Street Court W Debbie Vogler 941-705-3328 A4512663 $225,000

SARASOTA 7052 W Country Club Drive N 107 1 Bed 1/1 Baths 954 Sq. Ft. Susan Mondello 941-544-3387 A4519066 $175,000

LONGBOAT KEY 70 Lighthouse Point Drive 4 Beds 5/2 Baths 4,979 Sq. Ft. Linda Driggs & Sara Boudarga 941-374-2920 A4518073 $8,500,000

SARASOTA 483 Meadow Lark Drive 4 Beds 3/2 Baths 5,468 Sq. Ft. The Walter Group 941-232-2000 A4510572 $6,850,000

SARASOTA 345 S Polk Drive 5 Beds 5/2 Baths 4,991 Sq. Ft. Barbara May & Fred Sassen 404-822-9264 A4515494 $6,250,000

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM 357400-1

20

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

NOV. 22-26

ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR

A

home in Longboat Shores tops all transactions in this week’s real estate. Eric Warneke and Elise Passentino, of Ruskin, sold their home at 7 Winslow Place to Lamentin LLC for $1.76 million. Built in 1967, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,075 square feet of living area. It sold for $625,000 in 2011.

21

REAL ESTATE

Longboat Shores home sells for $1.76 million

|

Eric Garwood

Built in 1967, the home at 7 Winslow Place has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,075 square feet of living area.

SANCTUARY AT LONGBOAT KEY CLUB

Bruce Natale, of Great River, New York, sold his Unit B-501 condominium at 585 Sanctuary Drive to Mervet Saleh, of Longboat Key, for $1.73 million. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 1,785 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.2 million in 2019.

CONRAD BEACH

William and Deborah Lynch, of Sutton, Massachusetts, sold their home at 7020 Firehouse Road to M&N Hall LLC for $1.72 million.

Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths and 2,788 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.1 million in 2016.

DREAM ISLAND

672 D.I.R. LLC sold the home at 672 Dream Island Road to George Manooshian Jr., of Longboat Key, for $1.5 million. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,712 square feet

of living area. It sold for $2.25 million in January.

LONGBEACH REVISED

BUTTONWOOD COVE

Janie Partridge, of Wayne, Pennsylvania, and Christina Melton, of Royersford, Pennsylvania, sold the Unit 303 condominium at 3540 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Yury Linetsky, of Longboat Key, for $1.23 million. Built in 1980, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,568 square feet of living area. It sold for $350,000 in 1995.

ISLANDS WEST

Janet and Joseph Barone, of Wallingford, Connecticut, sold their Unit 13-B condominium at 2525 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Manfred and Joy Witecy, of Elkhorn, Nebraska, for $1.15 million. Built in 1972, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,491 square feet of living area. It sold for $849,000 in 2017.

Mary and Diane Moran, trustees, of Bradenton, sold the home at 600 Fox St. to Glen and Lori Fabian, of Camarillo, California, for $800,000. Built in 1964, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,350 square feet of living area. It sold for $360,000 in 2012.

LONGBEACH

Robert and Donna Frederick sold their Unit 11 condominium at 7125 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Regina and Rhonda Snow, of Sandwich, Massachusetts, for $780,000. Built in 1974, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,170 square feet of living area. It sold for $436,000 in 2014.

HARBOUR VILLA CLUB AT BUCCANEER

Raymond John Gall Jr. and Marybeth Gall, trustees, of Riva, Maryland, sold the Unit 111 condominium at 615 Dream Island Place

TOP BUILDING PERMITS These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of Nov. 24 to Dec. 2 in order of dollar amounts.

L O N G B OAT K E Y ADDRESS 628 Bayview Drive

PERMIT APPLICANT Replacement single Mark W. Mitchell

family residence

590 Jessmyth Drive

REplacement single Frederick W. Merizon

family residence

1621 GMD

Clearing, grading and Unicorp Acquisitions II LLC

to Catherine and Keith Kimble, of Concord, Massachusetts, for $649,000. Built in 1985, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,293 square feet of living area. It sold for $534,000 in 2020.

INN ON THE BEACH

Peter Bailly, of Sarasota, sold the Unit 6104 condominium at 225 Sands Point Road to Miyaja Investments LLC for $595,000. Built in 1983, it has one bedroom, one bath and 642 square feet of living area. It sold for $160,000 in 1993.

SEAPLACE

Pamela Ross, of Northfield, Ohio, sold her Unit M1-202F condominium at 2045 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Heidi and Stephen Buckley, of Milford, Massachusetts, for $511,000.

Built in 1972, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,491 square feet of living area. It sold for $849,000 in 2017.

In with the new SALES GALLERY OPEN

AMOUNT $1.43 million $1.1 million

Longboat Key

$100,000

grubbing 3040 Grand Bay Blvd. #231 Interior alterations

Gold Revocable Trust

$97,650

590 Jessmyth Drive

Electrical

Frederick W. Merizon

$95,945

2251 GMD

Mechanical

Aria Longboat Key

$94,700

Condominium

4805 GMD Unit 304

Interior alterations

Ronald Everett Gill

370 GMD #413

Windows and doors Robert Ferrara

$55,870

2251 GMD

Plumbing

$50,100

Aria Longboat Key

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

SALES GALLERY NOW OPEN

$85,000

Condominium

530 Chipping Lane

Dock and lift

GDGM Service of Sarasota Inc $50,000

3318 Sabal Cove Lane

Re-roof

Joseph Platano

$49,881

2123 Harbourside Drive

Windows and doors Stephen Sullivan

$42,544

590 Jessmyth Drive

Plumbing

Frederick W. Merizon

$41,400

628 Bayview Drive

Electrical

Mark W. Mitchell

$40,266

735 St. Judes Drive S.

Dock and lift

Luis R. Castillo

$37,394

3334 Sabal Cove Lane

A/C change-out

Andrew H. West

$37,167

511 Chipping Lane

Re-roof

Trust U/A/D 05/19/2004

$32,450

435 L’Ambiance Drive

Plumbing

Ian Wilbraham

$28,000

Downtown St. Petersburg

#903

400 Central | 727.209.7848 | From the $1,000,000’s | Call for appointment. | Residences400central.com

MOVE IN FALL 2022

#G901 3500 GMD

Re-roof

Buttonwood Cove Condominium $25,850

1281 GMD #802

A/C change-out

Janet L. Schlanger

$22,424

2550 Harbourside Drive

Plumbing

Samuel Rubinovitz

$19,854

731 El Centro

Re-roof

Ronald W. Seagren

$17,000

548 Halyard Lane

Plumbing

Charles and Susan Buccheit

$16,220

100 Sands Point Road

Lift

Steven C. Wilson (E Life Est)

$15,470

Downtown Sarasota

#334

The Collection | 941.232.2868 | From the $2,000,000’s | Call for appointment. | thecollection1335.com

#224 Plumbing

Steven and Jacqueline Berling $14,830

A/C change-out

Peter D. Kasdin Trust

$13,998

1241 GMD #1006

A/C change-out

Norman and Shari Frost

$13,693

Revocable Trust

4440 Exeter Drive Unit 206 Windows

Gregg Stanley

$13,387

532 Spanish Drive N.

John A. Corsini

$11,400

Anthony Tozzi

$10,799

Electrical

1050 Longboat Club Road Doors

WWW.MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM/NEW-HOMES | 844.591.4333 | SARASOTA, FLORIDA

#503 621 Linley St.

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

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

Doors

Edward B. Fischer

$10,072 Source: Town of Longboat Key

Prices as of November 2021.

Licensed Real Estate Broker

357319-1

531 Putting Green Lane 340 GMD #136

22

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

Living and Working on Longboat Key for 40 Years

Spruced up for a tree-mendous Christmas

Cathy C. Meldahl, P.A. Your Longboat Key Community Realtor

368167-1

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

NAT KAEMMERER STAFF WRITER

Who needs one of Chevy Chase’s most beloved characters when you have Pastor Brock Patterson at the Longboat Island Chapel?

941.724.7228 “I’m Clark Griswold all the way,” CathyMeldahl@michaelsaunders.com Patterson said. “This year, this was all we can do. Next year, there will be more.”

REAL ESTATE SIMPLY DONE The chapel kicked off its ChristREAL REAL ESTATE ESTATE SIMPLY SIMPLY DONE DONE mas in the Garden event the week203.605.9582 J.D., REALTOR , LBK COMMISSIONER 203.605.9582 end after Thanksgiving and hosted J.D., J.D., REALTOR REALTOR ,, LBK LBK COMMISSIONER COMMISSIONER REAL ESTATE SIMPLY DONE the first Christmas concert there REAL ESTATE DONE • Certified LuxurySIMPLY Home Marketing Specialist • On Longboat Key since 2002 • Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist • On Longboat Key since 2002 Nov. 30. Attendees made their way to • LBK Commissioner 2020 Michael & Company the gazebo amid a grove of twinkling • LBK Commissioner • 2020• Michael SaundersSaunders & Company Sarasota Memorial Hospital volunteer “Top Sales Associates” • Sarasota Memorial Hospital volunteer Christmas trees from 10 organiza“Top Sales Associates” • Recent in: Bay Isles-Harbor | • Recent salessales in: Bay Isles-Harbor | tions. The sponsors decorated their • 35 of legal experience • 35 years of years legal experience Promenade The Pearl | Tangerine Promenade | The |Pearl | Tangerine Bay | Bay | own trees, but because the chapel Award Winner Sands | Fairway Bay | Harbour Masters Masters Award Winner Sands PointPoint | Fairway Bay | Harbour Villa Villa• 2020• 2020 didn’t know the response it would ClubClub | Perico Bay | Longbeach | Perico Bay | Longbeach get in this first year, members decorated several of their own. Patterson FLAWLESS EXECUTION FLAWLESS EXECUTION got up on the ladder and wrapped live trees in lights, too. The result is a glowing garden, festive at every turn.

“This was the first year, so I didn’t know how we were going to grow and how people would respond, so the initial plan was just lights in the trees,” Patterson said. th Initially, chapel leadership wanted to decorate the friendship garden with lights and a few trees, but Patterson bandied about the idea of the Christmas tree garden. They reached out to local organizations, and after an initial spurt of radio silence, the whole thing snowballed. Volunteer Lesley Rife said it turned out to be a contagious idea. Patterson, a relative newbie to the island, noticed that BEST IN SHOW: THE DARK SIDE there was nothing else like it on the BEST “SILVER BELLS” 25TH ANNIVERSARY THEME: STAGE DOOR STUDIOS island. He knew it would work.

BEST COMMERCIAL ENTRY: LONGBOAT KEY BUILDERS “We presented the idea to a group BEST PERFORMANCE: JUMP DANCE of people with ideas and creativity, BEST WALKING UNIT: ACRO FIT GYMNASTICS but it takes a lot of courage to step out BEST NON-PROFIT: THE HUMANE SOCIETY and see if something will happen,” BEST CHURCH: FIRST SARASOTA Patterson said. “As an outsider, I JUDGES’ CHOICE: CORE SRQ could see that there was nothing like it on the island. … We’re absolutely Visit Facebook.com/SarasotaHolidayParade for more! planning on doing it next year, taking notes on what we’ve learned.”

In true Griswold fashion, there were too many lights for the chapel’s DOWNTOWN power grid at first. The first day of ASSOCIATION full glow was supposed to be Nov. 28, but all the lights came on officially on J.D., REALTOR ® , LBK COMMISSIONER

® J.D., J.D., REALTOR REALTOR ® ,, LBK LBK COMMISSIONER COMMISSIONER

®

367837-1

® ®

Congratulations to the winners of the 25 Annual

DOWNTOWN SARASOTA

368538-1

S A R A S O TA

Nat Kaemmerer

Lesley Rife next to her daughter Stacey Wurthmann’s tree.

TREE SPONSORS There are 13 trees to be found throughout the garden: n David Gregory Salon n Thomas Arbuckle Coldwell Banker Realty n Jamie and Stacey Wurthmann n The Paradise Center n The Lord’s Warehouse n Longboat Island Chapel Charitable Outreach n Longboat Island Chapel Revival Team n Longboat Island Chapel Shifting Sands n Harry’s Continental Kitchens n Driftwood Beach Home and Garden n Nature’s Gem CBD n Longboat Key Garden Club n The Pashkow Family

Nov. 30. Rife and Patterson said that a couple dozen people had walked through the garden during the day to take in the details. In the evening, more came to bask in the glow of the trees, as well as the Christmas crooning of Boris and Sax. Nov. 30 was a chilly Florida night, but it brought out the Christmas spirit. Dave and Karen Weissenstein, who spend part of every year on Longboat Key, said they’re far more used to the Vermont Christmas, not this Florida Christmas where it’s bearable to sit outside and take in the trees.

The Longboat Key Garden Club tree included birds, feathers and natural ornaments. The Driftwood Beach Home and Garden and David Gregory Salon trees aptly included a driftwood garland and tiny combs and curlers as ornaments.

REAL HOPE FOR REVERSING THE SYMPTOMS OF ALZHEIMER’S AND COGNITIVE DECLINE

Now is a GREAT Now GREAT time is toaSELL! time to SELL!

WHY? WHY?

The Alzheimer’s Disease and Cognitive Decline Masterclass

Our sellers are receiving Our sellers are receiving multiple offers and top dollar! multiple offers and top dollar!

Wednesday, December 15th at 1PM

1 South School Ave, Sarasota, FL | FREE TO THE PUBLIC

Consider Selling Your Property In ThisProperty Robust Market Consider Selling Your

What exactly will be covered at this Event?

In This Robust Market

Consider Selling Your Property In This Robust Market Call today for a no-obligation, no-cost market analysis!

Home values are up. Inventory is low...it’s a seller’s market.

CallGet today for trusted a no-obligation, no-cost analysis! the most source of local market market conditions from Home values arereal up.estate Inventory is low...it’sata Wagner seller’s market. your local area professionals Realty.

Get the most trusted source of local market conditions from your local area real estate professionals at Wagner Realty.

Call our experts at Wagner Realty Call our experts Dia Wilson Rae Ellen Hayo at941.383.5577 Wagner Realty More than 35 years of combined experience 941.383.5577 Dia Wilson Rae Ellen Hayo Longboat Key Office • 5360 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Ste 101 • Longboat Key, FL

At The Carroll Institute we identify, treat, and reverse the symptoms of Alzheimer’s and Cognitive Decline.

REGISTER FOR THIS LIFE CHANGING EVENT Call Today 941-350-7722

367789-1

More than 35 years of combined experience

Longboat Anna Maria Island • Sarasota Longboat Key Office • 5360 Gulf of Mexico Drive,Key Ste•101 • Longboat Key, FL

or visit

www.alzheimersfaqs.com/CDOB

Lakewood Ranch • East & West Bradenton

367454-1

Longboat Key • Anna Maria Island • Sarasota www.WagnerRealty.com Lakewood Ranch • East & West Bradenton

www.WagnerRealty.com

• The Root Causes and how to address them.

• A unique Step-By-Step clinical protocol that is successfully restoring memory and cognitive function.

• What you can do if you suffer from Memory Impairment, Cognitive Decline, and/or Alzheimer’s Disease.

Dr. Glenn is a leader in the field of reversing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s and Cognitive Decline.

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

Judy Kepecz-Hays

SELLING LOCAL LUXURY WITH G L O B A L C O N N E C T I O N S

$2.3 BILLION IN CAREER SALES

941.587.1700

|

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

Lori Lawson

Steven Kepecz

941.735.4385

941.376.6411

23

December 9, 2021

Ritz-Carlton Managed Residence Penthouse THE BEACH RESIDENCES OF LIDO KEY • 1300 Benjamin Franklin Dr. Penthouse 1201

ISLANDER CLUB • 2295 Gulf of Mexico Dr #55S Now FURNISHED bright and open floor plan with floor-to-ceiling hurricane impact glass throughout, wood floors in main living area, newer kitchen, and bathrooms. Generous 38ft terrace displaying beautiful garden view and phenomenal amenities. Olympic sized pool, newly upgraded social room. Fitness Center overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Only minutes from 45-holes of golf. Enjoy lovely sunset views from the poolside.

Offered for $788,000 FURNISHED | www.IslanderClub55S.com

Gem of all jewels. Beyond imagination and “the best views in the building”.

Enjoy sunrise and sunsets year-round. 4200 sq. ft. two wrap around terraces, southwest and east corner. Endless resort-style amenities; travertine floors, Subzero, and Dacor appliances. New BBQ on terrace, motorized blinds, high ceilings, and a private 2-car garage plus 1 space. Two pets welcome.

Offered for $5,985,000 |www.1300Penthouse1201.com

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TANGERINE BAY • 370 Gulf of Mexico Dr #421

LONGBOAT KEY • 6211 Gulf of Mexico Dr

THE WATER CLUB • 1241 Gulf of Mexico Dr #408

Enjoy all the comfort of resort-like amenities and the feel of single family living Tangerine Bay offers! 3 bedroom 3.5 bath. Southern exposed corner residence 2-car garage & 2-small pets welcome. Amenities include guard gate, pool/spa, tennis courts, fitness center, a fishing pier, & day dock.

Offered for $1,100,000 | www.TangerineBay421.com

Enjoy the Gulf of Mexico as your backyard with this custom designed gulf-front estate. Fall in love with the details and architecture you won’t find anywhere else. 4 bedrooms plus den or 5 bedrooms 5 baths.

6-car garage and an impressive lower level. Forever sunset views await you.

Offered at$10,880,000 | www.6211GulfofMexico.com

Beautifully updated and furnished. This residence offers views of Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. 3,000 sq. ft.

3 bed 3 bath and a bonus office room with a murphy bed.

Enjoy your oversized terrace perfect for dining al fresco.

Two pets welcome.

Offered $2,250,000 FURNISHED www.TheWaterClub408.com

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PARK RESIDENCES OF LIDO KEY • 159 Taft Dr. Penthouse 305 Spectacular 2500 sq. ft. Penthouse, total 5000 sq.ft. w/ Private Rooftop Terrace.

Quartz countertops, Cucine Ricci Italian cabinetry, Viking and Bosch appliances almost new. Resort style pool with cabanas only minutes to the Beach. Two pets welcome. Two under building parking spaces.

Offered for $2,950,000 FURNISHED | www.159PentHouseE305.com

If you’re thinking of buying or selling, please call us for exceptional service.

Judy Kepecz-Hays 941.587.1700

$127 MILLION SOLD Year to Date

COLDWELL BANKER REALTY

423 St. Armands Circle | Sarasota, FL 34236 595 Bay Isles Road, Suite 250 | Longboat Key, FL 34228 Email: Kepecz@JudyHays.com Website: LongboatKeyLuxury.com

369917-1

ATRIUM • 2110 Harborside Dr. Unit 556 Enjoy Sarasota Bay and Skyline views as your backdrop on your wraparound terrace. 3 bedrooms, 2100 sq. ft. of instant enjoyment. Newer hurricane storm shutters as a resident of Bay Isles you have access to the private Bay Isles Beach Club. Schedule your private showing today.

Contact Steven Kepecz 941.376.6411 | Offered for $1,025,000.00

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

YOUR CALENDAR

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

369890-1

24

Reason to Give...

To Give Them a Second Chance at Love.

BEST BET SATURDAY, DEC. 11

LONGBOAT LIBRARY BOOK SALE From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the lawn of the Longboat Library, 555 Bay Isles Road, shop for used books, movies and games. The rain date will be the same time on Dec. 12. Call 383-2011.

DONATE TODAY AT

CATDEPOT.ORG

368048-1

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

File photo

SUNDAY, DEC. 12

‘HANDEL’S CHRISTMAS MESSIAH’ At 10 a.m. at Christ Church of Longboat Key, 6400 GMD, enjoy the Christmas portion of Handel’s “The Messiah.” The chancel choir, professional soloists and orchestra will present this concert during the regular Sunday service. Call 383-5083 for information.

CHRISTMAS IN THE GARDEN AT LONGBOAT ISLAND CHAPEL Until Jan. 2, Longboat Island Chapel will transform its Friendship Garden into a winter wonderland. Local organizations have sponsored decorated Christmas trees, and the lights will be on daily from dusk to 9 p.m.

On Dec. 12, 15, 20 and 22, there will be musical presentations, treats and drinks free of charge. Call 387-2261 for information.

MONDAY, DEC. 13

368564-1

HOPE SEEDS From 1-3 p.m. at Christ Church of Longboat Key, 6400 Gulf of Mexico GMD, pack seeds in Fellowship Hall.

Hope Seeds is a Christian organization providing garden seed to the poorest in the world. Call 383-1731 to sign up.

Give the Gift of an

Observer Newsie Membership

season with a Newsie Give the gift this holiday etown newspaper! membership to your hom , not only will With a Newsie gift membership mission of you be helping us continue our rnalism here, providing independent local jou be giving an in your neighborhood, but you’ll awesome present as well. email with a The gift recipient will receive an nts will receive link to activate their gift. Recipie a Newsie membership all the perks that go along with ers and networking events, including access to exclusive mix opportunities! plus many more member-only

1-366-3468 JOIN TODAY, CALL 94 ERVER.COM OR NEWSIES@YOUROBS

er.com/newsies Questions? Visit YourObserv ys will be. *Don’t worry - we’re still free and alwa

Join The Neighborhood

5

$ /mo.

369151-1

Or $50 year

FRIDAY, DEC. 17

TBI FOOD DRIVE From 2-2:30 p.m. in the Temple Beth Israel parking lot, 567 Bay Isles Road, bring nonperishable food and home items for Second Chance, Last Opportunity in Sarasota. As a special request, SCLO is asking for books, toys and stuffed animals for the Santa party with the children it serves. With questions, call Karen Gary at 440-320-8690 or Alice Blueglass at 388-7195.

SATURDAY, DEC. 18

BEACH CLEANUP At 8 a.m., join Keep Manatee Beautiful for a Manatee County beach cleanup. Volunteers will be organized into teams. Email Dawn DiFoggio at DDInParadise@gmail.com to join the event.

TUESDAY, DEC. 21

BLUE CHRISTMAS At 5 p.m. at All Angels by the Sea Episcopal Church, 563 Bay Isles Road, join for the annual Blue Christmas service. The Rev. David Marshall organized the service for those experiencing grief and loss during the holiday season.

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

SUNRISE / SUNSET

FRIDAY, DEC. 10

High: 77 Low: 66 Chance of rain: 8%

Thursday, Dec. 9 7:09a 5:36p

SATURDAY, DEC. 11 High: 77 Low: 68 Chance of rain: 9%

WEATHER

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

FORECAST

25

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

|

Sunrise Sunset

Friday, Dec. 10

7:09a

5:36p

Saturday, Dec. 11

7:10a

5:37p

Sunday, Dec. 12

7:11a

5:37p

Monday, Dec. 13

7:11a

5:37p

Tuesday, Dec. 14

7:12a

5:38p

Wednesday, Dec. 15

7:12a

5:38p

MOON PHASES

SUNDAY, DEC. 12 High: 73 Low: 57 Chance of rain: 24%

Jan. 2 New

Jan. 9 First

Jan. 17 Full

Jan. 25 Last

TIDES

Wilma Davidson captured this rainbow glowing over Longboat Key.

Highs Lows

Thursday, Dec. 9

2:14a

6:46p

11:19a

10:07p

Friday, Dec. 10

3:33a

7:04p

—

12:12p

Saturday, Dec. 11

5:18a

7:26p

12:23a

12:59p

Sunday, Dec. 12

7:08a

7:49p

2:02a

1:42p

Monday, Dec. 13

8:42a

8:13p

3:10a

2:21p

Tuesday, Dec. 14

9:59a

8:37p

4:02a

2:56p

11:06a

9:00p

4:45a

3:26p

Wednesday, Dec. 15 Submit your photos at YourObserver.com/Weather. All submissions will be entered for the 2021-22 Weather and Nature photo contest. In February 2022, you will vote for your favorite photo, and the submission with the most votes will win a $500 gift card.

MANASOTA FLOORING INC KARASTAN, MOHAWK, AIRO, SMARTSTRAND, ALL PET 941.748.4679 | Venice

941.493.7441 | www.manasotaonline.com

celebrity cipher

IN THE MIDDLE OF by Gary Larson. Edited by Amanda Rafkin quinceanera, e.g.

57 “Piece of cake!”

58 Dart 60 Partiality 61 Thrift store caveat 64 Novelist Jesmyn 65 Toothbrush brand 66 McDonald’s fixtures DOWN 67 Sound from a leaky 1 Denver winter hours faucet (Abbr.)

68 Follower of an Afrocen2 Post-E.R. place, maybe tric religion 3 Respectful title 69 Employee with a Civic 4 Gives temporarily duty, perhaps?

5 Pot growers?

70 Line spoken to the 6 Legendary person audience 7 “Certainly,” for short 71 “Farewell, you pesky 8 Rats with red eyes little insect!”?

9 Deodorant type 75 Evil spirits 10 Furniture giant 76 Philly’s NFL team 11 Big commotion about a 78 “If I Only Had a Heart” ‘70s dance fad? singer 12 Last letter in Canada? 79 Digging plants with 13 Picked from a lineup, fronds? briefly 80 Altoids and others 14 Culturally forbidden 81 Famous ___ cookies 15 “This is a tough call” 82 Yellow flag tosser 16 Barrier around a 83 Places to park barbecue area?

85 Event with lightning, 17 Moisturizer ingredient often 18 Seats for kitties, 86 Share with, like a story sometimes 89 “I’ve finally got it!”

24 Phone notifications 90 Puts another way 29 Hilary of “Fatale” 92 Blue cartoon char31 Fanatical enthusiast acters 32 Paged 94 Trivial 33 Builds on 97 Took without asking 34 Shoestrings 100 Large-scale 36 Psychedelic drug 101 Choose to join 38 Some TomboyX gar102 Home with multiple ments layers?

39 Like Old Mother Hub- 103 Part of a train track bard’s cupboard 104 Ragout or maafe, e.g.

41 Video game inspired by 106 Stink to high heaven pentomino puzzles 107 Guitar accessory 43 Jazz pianist Art 110 Japanese honorific 44 Take in 112 Kin, for short 46 Santa’s reindeer, e.g. 113 Siri runs on it 47 Rival 114 Catan resource 49 Cause to stir 115 Petty criticism 52 Small change?

53 “Solve for x” subject 55 Seijin no Hi or 119 Based on theoretical deduction 120 Paper towel layer 121 Stitched together 122 The ___ the limit 123 When a night light goes out?

©2021 Universal Uclick

ACROSS

35 Bird often depicted 1 Placed in the wrong spot with Athena 37 Creme-filled cookie 8 Bone-dry 38 Comfy spot to eat 12 Pasta that’s often breakfast baked 39 Tycoon 16 Chum 40 Observe Ramadan 19 Word before “fair” or 42 1990s commerce pact “museum” 45 Overhaul an almanac?

20 Thor’s brother 48 Beneath 21 Dutch cheese 50 Pencil filler 22 Arroz ___ cubana 51 Test results that might 23 Look for guidance in earn college credits the works of Aesop?

25 What an IOU signifies 52 “The ___ of Amontillado” 26 Blouse or cami, e.g.

54 Blue Jays’ home 27 Lion’s home 56 Small sofas 28 Purple flowers 57 Seals’ rhyming prey 30 Special things 58 Dessert that often has 32 Big Mouth Billy ___ melon 34 TV host Jay 59 Buck’s mate

60 Sudden loud sound 61 Top-tier celebs 62 First-aid pro 63 Rough-and-ready nun?

69 Sucky appliance, for short?

72 Large collection 73 Person in a queue, maybe 74 Mature 77 Smokers’ receptacles 79 Pigmented eye part 80 High-ranking officer 84 Sit unused 85 ___, Crackle and Pop 86 “Let’s get a move on!”

87 Biblical garden 88 Benjamin of “Law & Order” 90 Seismology concern around a Nevada gam-

bling city?

91 Glossary items 93 “Get outta here!”

94 Bombards 95 Guitar maker Paul 96 Pet food brand 98 “I want my bone now!”

99 Punching tools 100 Poet and filmmaker Thylias 102 Bakery hybrids 105 Red wine grape 107 Toothpaste tube top 108 Dunderhead 109 Becomes putrid 111 Fashion group into vintage clothing?

116 OPEC’s concern 117 Bug biting a dog 118 Velma from “ScoobyDoo,” e.g.

By Luis Campos Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present. Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“X NPFS OXNVMKTSS! X’O DPXRD WP ZS XR OXNVMKTSS 20 ASMEI! X’NN ZS CSES IP NPRD, WCSA’NN ZS IXYT PG OS!”

– DXMRRXI MRWSWPTPKROHP

“CTP CYLKD NI DGI WTAYLCI KTD DT CVBI AU EGLD V DGVKM VH YVCGD IBIK DGTACG V DGVKM VD VH GTUIXIHH.” – LPNVYLX WGIHDIY E. KVNVDS “K PACYF OJXEF KE JWG OJSGGJ XEF OKEU XEF UGJ GEACUW JA LXT JWG NKYYO. K FAE’J EGGF DKYYKAEO AH FAYYXSO.”

– OKEGXF A’PAEEAS

Puzzle Three Clue: T equals Y

crossword

349249-1

941.355.8437 | Bradenton

Puzzle Two Clue H equals K

Sarasota

Puzzle One Clue V equals W

CARPET

© 2021 NEA, Inc.

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

©2021 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

12-9-21

Made for where you live. Here!

RED PAGES Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals

Help Wanted

HIRING SALES Associates to start ASAP. Stunning locations in Sarasota (941-388-3535) and Longboat (941-259-4612) Call HIRING Key SALES Associates to our ASAP. retail locations forin start Stunningdirectly locations details.

Apply online at shoreSarasota (941-388-3535) and brand.com/pages/apply-online Longboat Key (941-259-4612) Call our retail locations directly for details. Apply online at shorebrand.com/pages/apply-online

MATTRESS TWIN, Brand New, Foam, Firm/Plush Still in Orignal Pkg, $125 941-920-2494

Announcements CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING EARLY DEADLINE The Deadline for classifi fie ed advertising in the December 23rd and 30th issues will be due on Friday, December 17th by 3:00pm

real estate

CHANDELIER METAL, BROWN, HARDWARE INCLUDE. LIKE NEW, $30 (941) 920-2494

Sorrento Shores Waterfront 3 Bed 2 Bath Fantastic Views, New Dock $995,000 Stroll to Siesta Key Beach 4 Bed 2 Bath Heated Pool, 2 Car Garage $799,000 Longboat Key Beach House: on Canal, 2BED-2BATH, Dock.

Owner/agent $530,000.

auto Autos Wanted CASH FOR YOUR CAR We come to you!

Ho Ho Buys cars.

941-270-4400.

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

941809-3660, 941-809-3662.

Condos/Apts. for Rent LOOKING FOR a condo to lease for 3 months. In LBK, Lido or Downtown Sarasota. Must be at least 2,000 sq ft no steps, and nicely furnished 3 bedrooms. December - February or January March. Brokers welcome. Respond to:Brenbrook234@gmail.com

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE! 941-955-4888

SEASONAL Rates Beachfront, Bayfront and In Between Houses or Condos Reservations 941-383-5577 wagnerlbkrentals@gmail.com Visa/MC 5360 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Suite 101 Longboat Key, FL 34228 Rental office 9a.m. - 5p.m.

Adult Care Services

M-F Ask about our special rates!

CLAUDIA C. Cleaning Services.

Experienced, dependable, and ready to begin!

Residential.

Excellent references.

941-773-6895.

CLEANING BY Brazilian Lady.

Meticulous, reliable, deep cleaning specialist. Residential.

Commercial. New Construction.

941-400-2866.

SEEKING RELIABLE CLEANING SERVICE for Longboat key residence. Needs to be experienced, insured or bonded. Please contact 289-259-6418 or email: sheila@albertson.ca.

Home Services PERSONAL CHEF Healthy, delicious cuisine and special diets, prepared at your home for your lunch and/or dinner, 1-4 days a week; one or two weekends a month okay. Will shop and clean up. $30/hour, plus grocery costs. Minimum 3 hours.

Call Steven at 941-223-1869 or email: shodes63@gmail.com

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

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

Free estimates. 941-744-1020.

35+ years experience.

Transportation

Wagner Realty Since 1939 www.rentalsonlongboat.com

LONGBOAT LIMOUSINE Your local luxury transportation provider since 1994.

Call for coming soon listings.

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

Call 941-726-2677.

SELL YOUR STUFF FOR FREE! Items Up to $200

YourObserver.com/RedPages

Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals BEACH HARBOR Club Gorgeous penthouse condo with access to beach/boat/pool/fitness. 3BR/2BA, 2 large terraces, sunrise/sunset views. $5500/mo in season.

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

New luxury Sedans and SUVs. Fully Licenced and insured.

LONGBOAT KEY: Beachfront Condos, 1st or 2nd floor, 2BR/2BA, W/D in units, free WiFi, heated pool, & parking. Call 941-383-3338.

LONGBOAT KEY, BEA CH H ARBO R C LU B AN D B A Y P OR T T EN N I S C L U B FLORIDA : 2 Bedrooms, 2 baths. Over 1600 Square feet.

Ground 1st floor. 75” TV’s, fully upgraded. Monthly annually.

Contact lin44139@yahoo.com or linetsky2021@icloud.com or with desired rental price. Rent various: $6,000/month $8,000/month. Sales tax and fees are included.

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

SELL IT FAST HERE!

Perfect Solutions PerFfe ocr tSSeo nliuotrisons For Seniors *Caregivers/Companions *Caregivers/Companions *Personal Care *Personal Care * CNA’s/HHA’s * CNA’s/HHA’s * Assistance with Daily Living Ac* Assistance with Daily Living Activities tivities * Hourly 24/7 Care *-Affordable Hourly 24/7Rates Care -Affordable Rates * Licensed/ Bonded/ Insured * Licensed/ Bonded/ Insured

Phone (941) 809-1438 PhoHHA# ne (94299994819 1) 809-1438

POST YOUR AD WITH EASE YourObserver.com/RedPages

HHA# 299994819

Antiques/Collectibles

Beauty I am licensed Esthetician and Permanent Makeup Artist, using only natural and non-harming products for pigmentation and skin care.

Cool Stuff 4 U

SERVICES:

Microblading | Permanent Makeup | Micro-needling Eyelash Extensions | Saline Tattoo Removal Facials | Chemical Peels | Event Makeup | Waxing

We Buy & Sell Costume Jewelry, Coins, Watches

Homes for Sale

Gifts and Vintage Jewelry 369152

6555 BAYOU Hammock Rd. 5 beds 5 baths 3846 sf 4 car garage, pool, Banyan trees, Bayou front, gated .8 acre Year 1953. lots of potential, Asking $4,500,000 make offer. Open House 12/12/21 from 1-3 pm (941) 879-4730

WEEKLY MONTHLY

Watch Batteries Installed

813-998-6201

6842 Gulf of Mexico Dr ive, Longboat Key, FL 34228 941.260.9114 | coolstuff4ulongboat@gmail.com

SELL YOUR CAR! FAST • EASY • SAFE

WE COME TO YOU 5-Star Rated

HoHoBuysCars.com

TREASURES FOUND HERE!

Elitebeautiquesalon

ELITE BEAUTIQUE LLC | 630 SOUTH ORANGE AVE, SUITE 200A | SARASOTA, FL 34236

Auto Service

941.270.4400

Elitebeautique

RED PAGES

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

SEASONAL RENTAL Sea Gate condo 7th floor.

2 bed 2 bath $11,000 a month ...call for details 941-321-8848 shortstoryes@gmail.com j.cunningham Keller Williams broker

369154

Items Under $200

2BR/2BA WHITNEY Beach, Longboat Key, 34228 Unexpectedly available for 2022 season, spacious first-floor condo with courtyard overlooking gardens and Bishop's Bayou next to swimming pool. $4250pm. + taxes + fees. Email jm.higgins@mail.com Luxurious Lake Club 4 Bed 4 Bath Built in 2019 Lakefront Lakewood Ranch $2,500,000

jobs

stuff

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

Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

“SHORT STORIES”

Homes for Rent

Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals

WANTED—GARAGE SPACE to rent for vehicle storage on either Longboat Key or Anna Maria Island. Will rent for multiple months, one or two vehicles.

Please send contact information to db@plastomer.com or call Dave at 734-756-9246.

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

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

Cleaning

368887

DEADLINES: Classifieds - Monday at 2PM

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

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

BOOST YOUR BUSINESS Showcase your products or services.

CALL 941-955-4888

Massage Harbour Square 4134 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Suite 208 941-524-9700 SymphonyMassage.com Open 7 Days a Week | Covered Parking & Elevator Access MM40360

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

368913

redpages@yourobserver.com • yourobserver.com/redpages

AIRPORT RIDES to Tampa, St. Pete., Sarasota from surrounding islands. Super ride, super fares.

Call/text Anna: 941-932-1600

home services

INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888

Autos Wanted

Auto Transport

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

Beauty

Patio Furniture Repairs.com

AMANDA www.rockstarmobilehairsalon.com

941-345-5264

specialty screens / screw replacement / paint Doors and more!

Roofing

Manufacture and workmanship

Board Certified in the specialty of non-surgical spinal decompression

Warranties

Kenneth Fuhlman Inc. (941) 345-5264

DR. DAVID CIFRA, DC

Concrete CRACK REPAIR

SIDEWALKS • DRIVEWAYS

369064

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.com

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

BUZ CORP D/B/A

941-626-3194

Licensed & Insured CCC - 058059 CBC - 1253936

Insurance

CONCRETE FUSION

MIC INSURANCE

Call Bobby • FREE Estimates 319-693-8800 or 941-374-7670 Doors

Windows

EXPERIENCE KNOWLEDGE SOLUTIONS

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

Sliding Glass Door Repair

Mike Mailliard ~ Lacey Weaver Allen Hovis ~ Chloe Gardner Matthew Mailliard ~ Julia McIlrevey Haley Jestings ~ Samantha Ryan Jaimie Simpkins

“FIX IT - DON’T REPLACE”

369067

368512

Home • Condo • Auto • Umbrella • Boat • Flood

Dog Grooming

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

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

Lic./Ins.

& Pressure C Window lean t e s i Sun merly known as Sunrise Windo ng For

Serving Longboat Key Since 2005

25

UP TO

STANDARD WINDOWS

ws

140

$

INCLUDING SCREENS, TRACKS, MIRRORS & FANS

SPECIAL 00 5

$

senior citizen discount. www.sunsetwindowcleaningsrq.com

Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES | 941- 284 - 5880

This week’s Crossword answers

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “I love Milwaukee! I’m going to be in Milwaukee 20 years! I’ll be here so long, they’ll be sick of me!”

Giannis Antetokounmpo Puzzle Two Solution: “God grant me the courage not to give up what I think is right even though I think it is hopeless.”

Admiral Chester W. Nimitz Puzzle Three Solution: “I could stand in the street and sing and get enough to pay the bills. I don’t need millions of dollars.”

Sinead O’Connor

This week’s Sudoku answers

©2021 NEA, Inc.

You’re only cheating yourself.

CONSTRUCTION HANDYMAN

peekers’ place

Handyman

369996

©2021 Universal Uclick

Insurance

SECUR-ALL INSURANCE AGENCY

Sandra Smith

| 941.383.3388

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

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

369831

368910

Registered member of the National Dog Groomers Association of America (NDGAA)

Res./Com.

Purified water window cleaning available!!

Find anything in the RED PAGES | 941-955-4888

941.504.2745 941.400.1563

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

369076

369063

Like Us on Facebook

Building & Roofing Contractor

University Health Park 2415 University Parkway Bldg. 3, Suite 216 Sarasota, FL 34243

368514

941.778.2882 | 941.387.0607

GladysKhabbaz@gmail.com 805 Molly Circle, Sarasota

368914

368912

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

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

Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression provides safe, gentle & effective relief for upwards of 90% of patients that qualify for care.

SATISFACTION GUARANTEED Dries in hours - not days.

Serving AMI/LBK/Bradenton Area for 25 years

Naji Aoun

| scaperotta@aol.com

Screening

FREE CONSULTATION 941.358.2224

Carpet cleaning, tile, upholstery and area rug specialist.

BEFORE

AFTER

Italian American Owned

Give Us a Call - We Can Help

We Are So Thankful for our Customers

368213

941-544-1066

Do You Have Neck or Low Back Pain?

Do You Want To Avoid Surgery?

Carpet Cleaning

Honesty, Integrity and Pride

• Roofs • Pool Cages • Decks • Driveways Deck/Paver Sealing• •Decks Gutter• Driveways Cleaning ••Roofs • Pool Cages AndSealing Much•More!

• Deck/Paver And Much More

Serving Sarasota/Manatee Area Since 2004

GET YOUR LIFE BACK!

424-333-0713 | rockstarmobilehair@gmail.com

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

Pressure Washing

368513

368908

941-504-0903 Health

9 EPLACE Don’t R Concrete d of Goo only 5% when cked! is cra

Pressure Washing

Furniture Sales & Repairs Cushions • Slings • Re-powdercoating

FREE PICKUP / DELIVERY • FREE ONSITE QUOTES

#1 in IR REPA c a Cr k 5%

27

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

Power Washing

Furniture Repair

SERVING YOU IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME

|

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

ROGER SELLS

LUXURY WATERFRONT PROPERTIES

MORE THAN $200 MILLION CLOSED IN 2021

3731 INDIAN BEACH PLACE

$6,495,000

1241 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #805

Built in 2006 with the exceptionally high standards of Triangle Construction, designed with energy efficient and sustainable materials, this 5BR, lavish bayfront residence is the epitome of luxury waterfront living. The perfect place to escape, with its enviable central location minutes from downtown, verdant gardens accenting the nearly one-acre of property, extensive updates, and a beautifully elaborate interior that is ready for you to immediately enjoy.

Sparkling ocean views of Gulf waters are the star of the show as soon as you enter this eight-floor Water Club residence. Located on the quiet side of the south building, you will appreciate the well-maintained interior, with its sunlit views that stretch from the Gulf of Mexico to Sarasota Bay and out to downtown’s city skyline. The Water Club at Longboat Key is situated in a wonderfully central location, offering the perfect place to escape.

www.3731IndianBeach.com

www.WaterClubSouth805.com

15111 GADDY UP RANCH ROAD

$4,895,000

862 GRANDE PASS WAY

$3,100,000

Country breezes rustling through century old oaks and pines welcome you to this unique, 82.5-acre property known as the fully-operational Gaddy Up Ranch, offering many possibilities. Some equipment and livestock are also available for purchase separately.

Create your dream beach home at this private, gated enclave on the southern tip of Boca Grande. One of only 19 homesites in the exclusive Hill Tide Estates community, this spectacular parcel boasts more than a quarter-acre of direct beachfront property to enjoy.

www.GaddyUpRanchSRQ.com

www.862GrandePassWay.com

1300 BENJAMIN FRANKLIN DRIVE #907

$2,950,000

2301 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #73N

Striking bay and city vistas perfectly complement an exclusive Ritz-Carlton lifestyle at this 9th-floor Beach Residences getaway. Offering a spacious 3,000+ SF interior reminiscent of single-family living, with walls of glass sliders that open to wraparound and guest terraces, plus two parking spaces.

Gorgeous direct views of sparkling Gulf waters are the star of this charming, updated beach getaway at Islander Club, where you can enjoy 400-feet of water frontage. Offered furnished and move-in ready, there is no end to the options for relaxation.

www.BeachResidences907.com

www.IslanderClub73N.com

4725 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #208

$695,000

$1,899,000

3804 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #B106

Sand Cay is a lively beach neighborhood situated in a central spot on the midway point of the island of Longboat Key, boasting excellent rental options with the choice to lease weekly (only a few Longboat Key communities offer such convenient leasing opportunities).

This lovely beach-to-bay getaway is conveniently located on the first floor, just a few steps from beautiful Gulf shores. Ready to enjoy as a place to escape or as a rental property to update to your taste, the interior of this 2BR residence’s open layout features a newer kitchen, plus sliders that open to the private garden patio.

www.SandCay208.com

www.BeachHarborClubB106.com

$995,000

$450,000

CALL TODAY FOR YOUR EXCLUSIVE TOUR (941) 387-1840 00

443 John Ringling Boulevard, Suite F | Sarasota, FL 34236 595 Bay Isles Road , Suite 250 | Longboat Key, FL 34228 Roger@Pettingell.com | Pettingell.com Twitter.com/RealRoger | Instagram.com/RogerPettingell Owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC 368233-1

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