Longboat observer 2 23 17

LONGBOAT

Observer Longboat Key’s weekly newspaper since 1978

Library celebrates 60 years. PAGE 1B

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

VOLUME 39, NO. 28

FREE

YOUR TOWN

•

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

Painted into a corner Arts Center closing in May, but Town Center site still years off. PAGE 3A

Courtesy photo

A bite out of gator life

HOME SWEET HOME TOUR

Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium’s newest residents are ready for their big debut.

“The Teeth Beneath: The Wild World of Gators, Crocs and Caimans” will open Feb. 25.

The exhibit features American alligators and invasive spectacled caiman found in Florida waters and wetlands.

Garden Club’s 41st annual home tour begins March 4.

Cliff Roles

Katherine Harris marrying Texan Their fathers owned and ran their families’ banks. They both have a love of France.

And ranching and riding horses were part of their childhoods.

Apparently, it was meant to be.

Formerly a congresswoman, the Florida secretary of state and a Longboat Key resident, Katherine Harris Ebbeson — now a resident of Sarasota — will be married this weekend in Dallas to longtime Amarillo, Texas, banker, Richard Ware II. The ceremony will be held at the Perkins Chapel at Southern Methodist University, where Ware serves on the board of trustees.

Calling it a family affair, Harris said the wedding party will include Harris’ stepdaughter, Louise Ebbeson; Ware’s daughter and triplet sons; and his seven grandchildren. Ware is 70; Harris 59.

The pair met nearly a year ago at a gala in New York.

A+E

PERFECT HARMONY INSIDE

PAGE 12B

Photos by Katie Johns

Forum sets stage for town elections 4 candidates to speak their minds Feb. 27.

PROFILES, 4-7A OPINIONS, 8-9A

Voters will hear Longboat Key Town Commission candidates spell out their priorities and preferences in their own words next week at the Longboat Observer’s pre-election candidate forum.

Jack Daly and Larry K. Grossman, running for the District 4 seat, will appear along

with at-large candidates Jim Brown and Gene Jaleski at the event from 6-7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 27, at the Bayfront Park Recreation Center, 4052 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

Longboat Observer Publisher Emily Walsh will moderate. The format will feature questions from Walsh to the candidates,

followed by questions from the audience.

Light refreshments will be served.

“This is a forum, not a debate,’’ Walsh said. “It’s a way to put the candidates in front of the public to discuss issues important to Longboat Key.’’ Election Day is March 14.

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

BB • 10.375x16 WEEKLY_02.22.17 ART & SOL_ROP_ • GONE • BB • 013117

BeallsFlorida.com INTRODUCING

Exclusively at

Inspired by a love for Florida, Art & Sol™ is a brand that celebrates the Sunshine State through beautiful works of art.

Working with artists inspired by destinations, sea life, fun icons and color, this one-of-a-kind art has been applied to a mix of colorful clothing, accessories and home furnishings.

A longtime resident of South Florida, Ellen Negley feels a deep connection to her tropical surroundings and draws inspiration from the rich and colorful palette of Florida. Ellen conveys her vision by exploring the impact of color and composition. Her motto is “I see color with my eyes, but paint with my heart and soul.”

10

$

OFF

a $50 or more purchase

Use promo code COLORFUL on BeallsFlorida.com

WEDNESDAY-TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 22-28, 2017

Coupon valid for one time use on a qualifying merchandise purchase in Bealls Department Stores, by phone at 800-569-9038, on Click & Find kiosks and on BeallsFlorida.com only. Coupon must be presented & surrendered at time of purchase. Limit one (1) coupon per purchase.

Cannot be applied to prior purchases, gift card purchases, existing Bealls Florida credit balances, taxes, or shipping charges and cannot be used with Employee Discount or any other offer. Dollar-off discounts will be applied before any percent-off total purchase discounts. Coupon is applied to qualifying items on a prorated basis; returns will be credited at the return price on your receipt. EXCLUSIONS: Cobian®, Columbia, Gumbies®, Huk™, La Blanca®, Levi’s®, Melissa & Doug®, Natural Life®, Night Ize®, Nike®, Pelagic®, Sakroots®, Sawyer®, Simply Southern®, Southern Fried Cotton™, Under Armour®, select premium comfort shoe brands, Bealls Outstanding Buys, Bealls Extreme Values and other brands listed at BeallsFlorida.com/exclusions.

Not valid at Bealls Outlet. Bealls stores & BeallsFlorida.com are operated by Beall’s Department Stores, Inc. and Beall’s Westgate Corporation. CP01

SHOP SAVINGS THROUGHOUT THE STORE & AT BEALLSFLORIDA.COM

Go to BeallsFlorida.com for hours, locations and the latest deals!

Bealls stores & BeallsFlorida.com are operated by Beall’s Department Stores, Inc. and Beall’s Westgate Corporation.

10 bealls buck$

GET $

FOR EVERY $50 YOU SPEND

Receive $10 Bealls Bucks (February 22-March 2, 2017) when you make a qualifying merchandise purchase of $50 or more (before taxes) in Bealls Department Stores only. Maximum of $120 Bealls Bucks awarded per customer. Bealls Bucks have no cash value and can be redeemed in-store (March 3 & 4, 2017) only at Bealls Department Stores. Bealls Bucks must be presented and surrendered at time of purchase; any remaining balance will be forfeited. Bealls Bucks cannot be earned on purchases of gift cards or applied to prior purchases, gift cards, taxes or existing Bealls Florida credit balances. Bealls Bucks will be applied before any percent off total purchase discounts. Offer cannot be earned or combined with Employee discount. OP12

229003

2A

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

File photo

A group of creative Longbeach Village residents originally dreamed up Longboat Key Center for the Arts in the 1950s.

Arts center to close at end of May The building will be sold to a private developer.

JOHN MCGUIRE STAFF WRITER

T

he Longboat Key Center for the Arts will close at the end of May, Larry R. Thompson, president of Ringling College of Art and Design, said in a release last week.

The 2.3-acre site where the center sits will be sold to a private developer who intends to construct single-family housing.

Thompson told the Longboat Observer the property is under contract of sale with the developer, but Ringling College is not yet ready to reveal the name of the developer or a sale price.

There is no set closing date on the property, Thompson said, but he expects it will be within the next two months.

In last week’s release, Thompson recalled when Ringling College was approached by the center 10 years ago.

“We were honored to merge

“It’s so wonderful.

I’m so excited. I hope we get a theater.”

— Roz Rothman

with the Center and continue the legacy that it had built in the northern area of Longboat Key,” Thompson wrote. “We are proud to have provided engaging and educational art and design experiences through our exhibitions, classes and events.”

The college intends to use a portion of the money from the sale to support the construction of a new cultural center, the Longboat Key Center for Arts, Culture and Education.

“It’s our intention that a major part of those funds would go toward the development of a new center,” Thompson said, although he didn’t specify an amount.

Thompson also said discussions have begun to consider what to do in the time gap between the closing of the existing site and the opening of the proposed site, adjacent to Publix, which might not happen until 2020.

Known as the Town Center, the site is planned as a hub with easier access to residents on both ends of the Key. This cultural center is a collaboration between Ringling College and the Town of Longboat Key. Originally planned for 2.8 acres, the site was recently expanded by another 2 acres with the town’s purchase of the adjacent Amore restaurant site.

The Longboat Key Foundation, which has spearheaded the cultural center efforts, plans to help raise most of the money to fund construction of the building through philanthropy and potentially seeking endowments to supplement operating costs.

The foundation’s Warren Simonds, who also is the cultural center’s Task Force chairman, imagines the new facility being “very modern, very striking,” likening it in terms of design to Ringling College’s Alfred R. Goldstein Library, which opened in January.

Simonds compared the foundation’s vision for the project to the way John Ringling envisioned what the Key could be in the 1920s.

“This is a new vision for Longboat Key,” Simonds said.

Simonds hopes the cultural

THROUGH THE YEARS April 1951 — After a trip to New Orleans, Longbeach Village residents plan for an island arts center December 1952 — Longboat Key Art Center opens May 1998 — Name changed to the Longboat Key Center for the Arts April 2007 — Ringling College of Art and Design merges with Center for the Arts February 2009 — The center celebrates its grand opening after closing for nearly a year for renovations December 2012 — The center celebrates its 60th anniversary March 2014 — Town of Longboat Key buys property for the future Town Center for $1.5 million January 2017 — Town Commission OKs $2.2 million for Amore restaurant property to expand Town Center property for Longboat Key Center for the Arts, Culture and Education February 2017 — Ringling announces closure of Longboat Key Center for the Arts May 2017 — Center to close

center will have a space for events like weddings, offer classes in subjects like drawing, jewelry and culinary arts, as well as house a black box theater with flexible seating for 200 to 300 people.

The center could help increase property values on the Key, Simonds said. He also expects it could help decrease traffic on the Key because residents will no longer need to travel off-island for services the facility will offer.

“It will be a true community asset,” Simonds said.

Simonds hopes to announce its fundraising plans within the next few weeks. Construction of the project will not begin until finances are certain. Simonds has estimated about $10 million to $12 million would be required.

“You’re not going to see a shovel in the dirt until we get all the money raised,” Simonds said.

The Longboat Key Foundation hosted an informational meeting about the cultural center Saturday evening at Islands West condos.

After Simonds gave a presentation, residents were enthusiastic about the project.

“It’s so wonderful. I’m so excited,” Roz Rothman said. “I hope we get a theater.”

Simonds appreciates Ringling College’s idea to contribute some proceeds to funding the project.

“That would be really wonderful if they could do that,” he said.

Thompson said a small portion from the sale of the current center will be used to make up for losses the college experienced while operating the Longboat Key Center for the Arts.

Taking the fundraising process and the length of construction into consideration, Thompson said the cultural center could be completed within three years.

Simonds estimated that, after funds are raised, designing the facility could take about eight months, and then construction could take about 14 months.

When asked what will become of services and programs offered at the arts center between the time it closes in May and the opening of the new cultural center, Thompson said the topic of continuing services is being discussed, but

“You’re not going to see a shovel in the dirt until we get all the money raised.”

— Warren Simonds

nothing has been decided.

Representatives of Ringling College and Key town staff on Tuesday presented the Town Commission with a pre-construction agreement.

The agreement assigns responsibilities to each party moving forward. Ringling’s responsibilities will include the development and proposal of a preliminary design and programming plan, while the town will be tasked with conducting a timely review of the proposal, among other duties. The two parties will prepare a proposal for operations at the center.

Assistant Town Manager Mike Hein said he looks forward to Ringling College and town staff working together on the project.

“It’s an exciting opportunity for the community,” he said.

Mayor Terry Gans echoed Hein’s anticipation for the cultural center, which he hopes will provide the community with a place to get together for decades.

The mayor also praised Ringling College for the institution’s ability to manage operations at the cultural center and provide quality programs to Key residents.

“I couldn’t be more enthusiastic,” Gans said. “But we have a long way to go.”

3A

4A

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

ELECTION 2017: LONGBOAT KEY TOWN COMMISSION CANDIDATE, AT-LARGE: JAMES L. ‘JIM’ BROWN MORE ONLINE

Town commission candidates’ print answers were, in some cases, condensed for space.

For their full responses, visit yourobserver.com

What are some changes you would like to see to the town’s policy on beach renourishment?

As a former member of the commission, I believe the town’s beach management plan is doing a good job of managing our beaches. It is always difficult to second guess Mother Nature. I use the beaches frequently and believe they are in good condition as a whole. There will always be areas that need attention. My opponent thinks we should use sand savers, but all of our consultants tell us that they don’t work.

What are your thoughts on a terminal groin at the north tip of the island?

It may be necessary to place a terminal groin at the north end of the Key near Beer Can Island.

We planned one when we placed the other two groins on the north end, but because the town was sued by my opponent and others, we had to remove them from the plans.

What should the town do to help alleviate traffic issues?

The town has been and will continue to be actively working with our surrounding communities to put in place ideas to minimize our traffic problem. Unfortunately,

most of the problems are not under our control, so we are at the mercy of our neighboring communities. We have to continue to control our own density and not create issues that will make the problems greater.

construction of the tall buildings that destroy the low-key residential scale of our community. The highest building height being allowed currently on LBK is 65 feet except in the special zoning districts of Islandside and Bay Isles.

What are some other issues on Gulf of Mexico Drive you want the state to address?

My thoughts are that we need to educate our citizens about ways they can help alleviate our traffic problems, especially during our busy seasons. Such things like not making unnecessary trips during busy traffic periods, maintaining proper speed so as not to impede traffic, etc.

Do you think the town should allow the opportunity for mixed-use redevelopment on nonconforming properties?

A very high number of our properties are currently nonconforming due to the fact that the town down-zoned the entire island in 1984. I have been working for years, both on the P&Z and the commission, to rectify this situation. The P&Z has proposed to the commission that we allow the redevelopment of our properties using Planned Unit Developments. One of the proposed PUDs is a mixed-use. I believe that this is an acceptable option as long as the guidelines being proposed are followed. The type of PUDs being proposed for Longboat are very restrictive compared to PUDs used in other communities so as to maintain the low density of our Key.

Do you feel like the current proposal for the Colony Beach & Tennis Resort redevelopment is compatible with Longboat Key? No comment. I will only say that it does not meet the zoning codes of LBK.

Age: 71 Hometown: Born in Huntsville, Ala. Lived in Alexandria, Va. Family: Not married, no children Previous elected positions: Longboat Key Town Commission 2009-2015, mayor 2011-2015 Current elected positions: None. Currently chairman of Planning & Zoning Board.

Clubs, organizations: Cofounder and board member of the Longboat Key Community Foundation, former member of P.I.C. Hobbies: Boating, tennis, fishing, golf

Should developers be allowed the option to build above eight stories with more strict open space, setback or other regulations?

Absolutely not! One of the reasons that the community came together in 1984 and changed the zoning as it did was to stop the

How would you describe your vision of what Longboat Key should look like in 15 years?

I have spent about 15 years serving the citizens of Longboat in one capacity or another. If there’s one thing I’m certain of, it is that we want Longboat to remain a primarily low density residential community with just enough tourism and commercial services to make the Key a pleasant place to live. I would like to see the Key more self-supportive with things like our new medical offices so we don’t have to leave the Key to see a doctor and our proposed cultural center for the same reason.

We don’t want to attract people from outside to our services, we want them for ourselves and to make our lives more simple.

As the town moves to update the charter, are there changes you would like to see?

Over the past several years that I have served on the commission or planning board, many times we have come across items in our charter that we have questioned.

I hope we can take a comprehensive look at the charter and make sure it is up to date and works well for all of our community. I don’t have any specific suggestions.

What are three main priorities you would undertake as a town policymaker?

1) I think we need to complete the task of figuring out what is the most fair way to underground our utilities in our neighborhood.

2) We have to continue to work to solve the problems with our traffic. Unfortunately, it is not totally under our control. The best method we have to do this is to control growth on the Key. 3) We must continue to provide the very good services we have today without burdening the taxpayer with high taxes. I think we have done a great job of doing this in the past and must continue to do so.

Why do you think you are the best candidate?

I have volunteered my time and energies on Longboat for many years. I have listened to the input of the citizens and have learned what they want. In every committee, appointed position or elected position I have served in, I have been chosen to lead the group. I believe I can continue to provide a service to the community, relying on the history and knowledge I have gained over the many years I have served. I don’t believe my opponent can say that.

LONGBOAT

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

TO EMAIL US

TO ADVERTISE Display Advertising: To obtain information, call Marisa Merlino at 941-366-3468, Ext. 381.

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

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

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

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

LIKE US Observer Group

WATCH US YourObserverVideo

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

FOLLOW US @Observer Group

My HEART will always be in a little cottage by the SEA FOR SALE

Cottage by the Sea Beach Front | Mid-LBK | 2 Bedroom/2.5 Bath $1,345,000 Listed For Sale with Roger Pettingell COLDWELL BANKER, Longboat Key

941-387-1840 www.PelicanHarbourMH2.com

229891

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

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

5A

ELECTION 2017: LONGBOAT KEY TOWN COMMISSION CANDIDATE, AT-LARGE: GENE JALESKI What are some changes you would like to see to the town’s beach-management policy?

The town’s current beach management policies have not and are not working. Taxpayers are spending millions on sand that washes away in a few months. For over 10 years, I have advocated looking at what other communities are doing to save money and maintain safe beach width. I advocate for very long jetties at both ends of the island, coupled with continuous circular minidredging. This has worked very well in other communities.

What are your thoughts on a terminal groin at the north tip of the island?

If one looks at LBKalive.com, there is a 10-year history of my advocating for a long jetty at both ends of the island. Using jetties, along with continuous sand backpass and bypass mini-dredging, we can return 89% of the sand lost from the beaches into the two adjacent inlets at a fraction of the money.

What should the town do to help alleviate traffic issues?

Job No. 1 should be to halt adding any more cars to the current traffic snarl. The referendum that added 250 tourist units to the existing tourist units is 10 years old.

It should be revoked as the island has become more and more an affluent residential community, where 80% of the voters have repeatedly rejected any expansion of either tourist or residential density. Our community now has the added traffic from a large

number of short-term rentals via Airbnb and VRBO. We are an island community with large public beach facilities, multiple bridges, unfavorable bridge opening schedules and two-lane roads. Incremental efficiencies will alleviate the problem to some degree, The only option available is to curtail our onisland traffic and install intelligent traffic and pedestrian lights.

What are some other issues on Gulf of Mexico Drive you want the state to address?

1) Remove parking from one side of St. Armands Circle 2) Install pedestrian crossing lights at St. Armands Circle.

3) Install intelligent computerized traffic signals from 75th Street at Cortez Road in Bradenton to Ringling at U.S. 41 in Sarasota.

Do you think the town should allow the opportunity for mixed-use redevelopment on nonconforming properties? No! It will ruin our community.

Should developers be allowed the option to build above eight stories with more strict open space, setback or other regulations? The island is made up of several neighborhoods, each unique. One size does not fit all.

For the current town officials on the commission and PZB to even be contemplating such an idea says they are out of touch. This is another way to get around density. It is a terrible idea.

Age: 75 Hometown: Larchmont, N.Y. Family: Daughter, three grandchildren Previous elected positions: Town commissioner Current elected positions: None Clubs, organizations: Longboat Key Physics Club Hobbies: Community affairs

Do you feel like the current proposal for the Colony Beach & Tennis Resort redevelopment is compatible with Longboat Key? Read my lips: No more traffic. No more hyper-dense tourist expansions like the Hilton.

How would you describe your vision of what Longboat Key should look like in 15 years?

Longboat is morphing into an ever-more beautiful and exclusive residential community. For the past decade, I have questioned the desirability of expanding tourism on the island as residents and tourists have far different

lifestyles. Market forces will efficiently drive the rebuilding of the island without meddling on the part of the town government.

mission election by both newspapers, it is imperative that we afford voters ample opportunity to cast an informed vote.

As the town moves to update the charter, are there any rules or language you would like to see changed?

1) We need to look to see if any major changes are needed. It seems that we are doing quite well with our current charter.

2) We are the only community in our area that has an appointed charter review committee. That means that the commissioners get to appoint their cronies to change the town’s charter. I think the only function of the “appointed” committee should be to change the charter to an “elected” committee and disband.

3) The charter should be changed to restrict voters to casting ballots only for the candidate running in their district, and the two “at-large” commission seats. I doubt a district-elected commission would have forced the second underground referendum on the neighborhoods.

Those property owners with $10,000 assessments, who were outvoted by voters with no stake, will understand.

4) The charter should be changed to mandate a government-supported electoral process, where the town sponsors four televised, and streamed, town hall campaign forums where candidates have the opportunity to express their views and positions. Residents should be able to ask the candidates questions.

Given the blackout of the com-

What are three main priorities you would undertake?

1) Find a way to foster inclusive government through improved relations between the town and property owners. The commission basically supports expansion of tourism, yet 80% of the voters repeatedly reject any density increases. Is the commission out of touch? I believe the town needs to reach out to voters to find out how the wind blows.

2) Strictly enforce existing density limits.

3) Enforcement of short-term rental violations, including fines.

4) Hire experts to look at how the town maintains our beaches, with an eye to viable alternatives.

u At o Y ee

!

B O AM

S

AMOB Brunch & Bloodys…

Not Just for Hangovers Anymore!

CELEBRATE St. Patrick’s Day at AMORE! Dine, Relax, Celebrate!

No need to leave the key... come to Amore!

Join AMOB for Brunch Every Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 2pm!

Enjoy a full menu of delicious brunch favorites – All under $10!

It is the perfect affair that combines the finest food, cherished friends and family, entertainment and a location that is unlike any other.

Amore offers a tropical oasis and an elegant building where charm and graciousness mingle with modern amenities.

Open daily Tues - Sun. 4:30 to 9:30 pm

230030

Dining - Happy Hour - Live Music - Special Events www.amorelbk.com | 555 Bay Isles Parkway, Longboat Key 34228 Reservations for the dining room suggested: 941-383-1111

Why do you think you are the best candidate?

I have been active for the past 25 years, trying to add facts and research to the community discussion. Many years ago I was able to stop the developer at Conrad Beach from constructing 45-foot houses in a neighborhood zoned for 35-foot structures. Since then I have advocated for informed decision making by the commission, and looking at what other communities are doing right. I have always opposed increased commercial tourism, and I will tirelessly resist developers destroying our special community.

I have no agenda. Rather, I look at each challenge based on facts and informed decision making.

AMOB Bloody Marys Built Your Way… Or Enjoy One of Ours! * Choose Your Vodka… Choose Your Garnishes… or go with an AMOB Favorite!

Every Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 2pm! *Available at the Pier location only. Ages 21+ only.

Breakfast Served Daily! 8 –11am

Horticulturists, Sustainable Solutions, Native & Exotic Plant Integration  941 - 343 - 9396

| www.grantsgardens.com

CODE

65

FREE!

*

*Limited to 1 guest, 1 visit, 1 use. Expires March 31, 2017.

With this coupon. Pier location only.

PIER • 941.778.AMOB (2662) 200 Bridge Street (Historic Bridge Street Pier)

203463

204467

FINE LANDSCAPE GARDENING Certified

Present this coupon when you purchase one breakfast entrée at regular price and receive a second

6A

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

ELECTION 2017: LONGBOAT KEY TOWN COMMISSION CANDIDATE, DISTRICT 4: JACK DALY

What are your thoughts on a terminal groin at the north tip of the island?

The two adjustable ones recently installed appear to be accomplishing the intended goals.

As expected, because of litigation and a settlement thereof, anticipated erosion has occurred on Greer Island. Town staff are currently evaluating possible groin and other solutions, as well as trying to accelerate the timing of their installations as per the settlement provisions. I fully support all of these efforts.

What should the town do to help alleviate traffic issues?

I endorse the short-term pilot traffic remedies, as recently proposed by the Revitalization Committee to the MPO Board and Sarasota and Manatee public officials, which I supported as an MPO board member, as well as similar short-term remedies proposed by the four barrier islands’ mayors. We need to keep in mind that the Florida Department of Transportation owns all the relevant regional ingress and egress roads to and from the Key, which are integral to our traffic issues; and accordingly, FDOT must take ownership of and support any short-term and long-term reme-

diations. The approved FDOT/ MPO Traffic Study, proposed by LBK to the MPO Board by our town manager and myself, with the primary objective of developing long-term solutions, appears to me to be the best opportunity for results.

The only way to actually implement traffic remediation projects for the long term will be through significant political organization and efforts. My recommendation is to establish them now in support of the short-term proposals.

What are some other issues on Gulf of Mexico Drive you want the state to address?

I suggest FDOT eliminate the two northern crosswalks (which go nowhere and have not been used hardly at all), and, as discussed, replace one to the north near Broadway. I would also study and evaluate more possible turn lanes, similar to the one being considered for Country Club Shores. FDOT should consider at least partially funding a complete sidewalk along GMD’s west side.

Do you think the town should allow the opportunity for mixed-use redevelopment on nonconforming properties?

The commission and P&Z Board are presently considering mixeduse redevelopment options as part of proposed Planned Use Development procedures. I am favorably disposed to consider such options — with appropriate code eligibility criteria — recognizing that any involved additional dwelling units are subject to a referendum.

height restrictions or some specific additional height allowances with more strict open space and setbacks criteria.

Age: 80 Hometown: Norwich, Conn.

Family: Widowed, four children, seven grandchildren Previously elected positions: Incumbent commissioner; previously served four years on Planning & Zoning Board Other experience: In addition to former business and community organizations, serves on local condominium boards on LBK and near hometown in Connecticut Hobbies: Tennis

Should developers have the option to build above eight stories with more strict open space, setback or other regulations?

An option to exceed present building height limitations is also under Commission consideration. I am personally considering whether to vote for setting limits between two choices: absolute

Best Brunch Every Day!

Landmark

What are three main priorities you would undertake?

1) Continuing to update the Town’s land development (zoning) code and comprehensive plan, which has been underway for almost two years.

2) Continuing to focus on current efforts to transform the Town Center conceptual plans to become a reality, beginning with the development of the cultural center being considered with Ringling and the LBK Foundation.

3) Continuing oversight of the GMD and neighborhood utility and fiber optic undergrounding projects approved by the voters, to assure efficient and fair assessments.

Why do you think you are the best candidate?

I believe I have demonstrated my ability to work well through different issues and personalities while assimilating facts, listening to input from other commissioners and members of the community, and then making decisions that are in the best interests of our wonderful LBK community.

When was the last time you had your skin health exam?

Harry’s Deli = DELICIOUS

Party Specialists for your entertaining

How would you describe your vision of what Longboat Key should look like in 15 years?

To maintain the present ambience and character of Longboat, recognizing that residents in many of our nonconforming neighborhood communities should be able to redevelop older residences to meet current and future lifestyle needs and desires, all within specific and flexible zoning provisions, consistent with the code updates.

229888

A Longboat Key

Do you feel like the current proposal for the Colony Beach & Tennis Resort redevelopment is compatible with Longboat Key? First, we must await and react to the Colony Referendum in March requesting additional density of 180 residential units.

Second, we must keep in mind that if the referendum vote is positive, it is in now binding on the P&Z Board or commission. It would simply be a gateway step to enable the evaluation of the applicant’s specific proposal. My guiding principle is to assure the continuing character of our community, while keeping Longboat as Longboat.

Third, if the referendum vote is negative, I assume a plan B will be developed for the site, consistent with the applicable zoning regulations. My guess is that such a plan may be somewhat downsized in scope and height.

As the town moves to update the charter, are there any rules or language you would like to see changed?

1) In the event that the mayor is unable to perform for health or similar reasons, the vice mayor should succeed the mayor.

2) The current Commission two-year terms are too short, in my opinion, and should be extended to at least three years.

The total term limit of six years could be retained.

services include Mohs Surgery Dermatologic Surgery Skin Health Exam Botox Juvederm Restylane Sculptra Laser Treatments Hair Removal

RESTAURANT • DELI • CATERING • CORNER STORE

5600 Gulf of Mexico Drive • Longboat Key, FL

941.383.0777 • harryskitchen.com

YOU MAY NOT KNOW HOW THE CLOG HAPPENED .. .

“Sissy” Patricia Ceravola, BS, PA-C

Gail Fowler, PA-C, MHP

Dr. Slazinski is a Board Certified Dermatologist who was named Surgeon of the Year by the Florida Society of Dermatologic Surgeons

PLUMBING TODAY WILL UNCLOG

Over 30 years serving Sarasota

941.365.5582 • 2001 Siesta Drive, Suite 201 • Sarasota, FL 34239

ANY DRAIN

Create the Kitchen of Your Dreams

$93

COMPLETE KITCHEN from

OR IT’S FREE!

$4995

with Cabinets and Granite Countertops

INCL UDES A FREE CAME RA INSPECT ION

Granite and Quartz Countertops from

$20 sq ft

t he B

Offer Expires in 10 Days Installation NIC

ea r s . e s t f r om T oday for over 50 y

KB DESIGN GROUP INC

Schedule Online Today at CoolToday.com

For a FREE Kitchen Design Consultation Call 941-356-1200

/GetTheBestFromToday *Residential only. Some restri ctions apply.

232138

941.343.8543 224537

sota and Manatee Coun ng S a r a t ie s G et Helpi

Leonard Slazinski MD

232132

What are changes you would like to see to the town’s policy on beach renourishment?

I have been advocating that we thoroughly evaluate the pros and cons of pursuing Army Corps of Engineers funding for eligible sections of our beach. Our town manager has been pursuing this.

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

7A

ELECTION 2017: LONGBOAT KEY TOWN COMMISSION CANDIDATE, DISTRICT 4: LARRY GROSSMAN What are changes you would like to see to the town’s policy on beach renourishment?

Instead of alternating between periods of stuffing our beaches with sand or of beach starvation, the town should look into continuous feedings of sand from sand lost to the inlets. I am very aware of the importance of a well-managed beach to successful survival of loggerhead turtles during the six-month nesting season.

What are your thoughts on a terminal groin at the north tip of the island?

I would support a long jetty at the northern tip of the island.

What should the town do to help alleviate traffic issues?

I have advocated that the neighboring cities and counties adopt traffic demand management plans as part of their comprehensive plans and land development regulations. Developers can vest large amounts of new development and then submit plans for transportation.

I would require that both the development plan and traffic mitigation plan be submitted together as a condition of approval and vesting. Issuance of a development order would require an ongoing program to mitigate traffic impacts and encourage and finance alternatives to use of private, low occupancy vehicles.

Use of buses, jitneys, car sharing, water taxis, bicycle routes and autonomous vehicles would all be employed to reduce traffic and parking demand affecting the islands. Before the MPO, I suggested these schemes be

considered in the study.

I would also seek to amend the town’s comprehensive plan and land development regulations to implement traffic demand management requirements on new development such as a redeveloped Colony project.

What are some other issues on Gulf of Mexico Drive you want the state to address?

I would ask the state for more pedestrian crosswalks, particularly across the street from the Zota Hotel connected to an existing public beach access walkway now being improved by the developer.

I would also ask FDOT to consider analyzing intersections up and down Gulf of Mexico Drive and to construct two roundabouts at Broadway and at Longboat Key Drive as attractive entranceways and as measures to slow and continuously move traffic.

Do you think the town should allow the opportunity for mixed-use redevelopment on nonconforming properties?

Nonconforming properties are different, and many of these sites may be built out and too small or infeasible for redevelopment for higher mixed-use densities.

Mixed-use development requires large sites. The town needs to identify which sites are suitable or desirable for redevelopment. I am concerned that the notion of opportunity PUD land use categories applied to nonconforming sites implies that all these sites are suitable for redevelopment.

Should developers have the option to build above eight

stories above parking and very attractively fits into the landscape and does not overwhelm the site. There is just no magic height that is appropriate for every site. The commission needs to allow flexibility in heights but with a public purpose and objective in mind.

Age: 68 Hometown: Boston, Mass.

Family: Trish (wife) and Aaron (son) Previous elected positions: None Current elected positions: None Clubs, organizations: Manatee Sarasota Sierra Club, Coalition against Phosphate Mining, LBK Turtle Watch, Temple Beth Israel Choir, Friends of the Legacy Trail Hobbies: Yoga, meditation, public interest advocacy on planning and environmental issues

stories with more strict open space, setback or other regulations?

Height is only one zoning parameter and should not be isolated from other building factors such a building bulk and site coverage.

There really isn’t anything attractive about building tall rectangular boxes surrounded by parking and open space. The Aria is four

Do you feel the current proposal for the Colony Beach & Tennis Resort redevelopment is compatible with Longboat Key? I don’t like the design and not adding to the quality of development as distinct from downtown Sarasota. I’m not convinced that residential should be added to the site that has traditionally been a tourist use.

How would you describe your vision of what Longboat Key should look like in 15 years?

The general theme for Longboat Key in 15 years is modernization with undergrounding of utilities, streetscaping along GMD, redesigned intersections, two roundabouts at either end, a redeveloped Whitney Plaza with adjacent properties to the north, a Town Center anchored by government offices and a cultural and information resource center walkable and connected as a place to go for residents and visitors, a redeveloped Colony site and rehabilitation of older properties reskinned with more modern design and amenities. All this can happen without changing the character of LBK. As the town moves to update the charter, are there any rules or language you would like to

see changed?

Make members elected rather than appointed. Allow for singlemember representation of districts. Two of the members could be elected at-large with the rest by district. I would also seek to eliminate the referendum by density provision once the island has an updated comprehensive plan and land development regulations.

What are three main priorities you would undertake as a town policymaker?

1) Outreach and more citizen participation and engagement.

2) More transparency.

3) A strong comprehensive plan and sensible and fair land development regulations to manage growth, ensure the preservation and enhancement of our natural resources, and to further enhance the beauty of the built environment, fiscal soundness, balance of residential with tourism and supporting commercial and service facilities, traffic management and travel mode options, a sense of one community with diverse neighborhoods, housing and lifestyle choices, and an attractive Town Center.

Why do you think you are the best candidate?

I believe that my level of civic engagement and my background as a city planner will make me a capable and effective representative in dealing with the planning and traffic issues affecting LBK, and I hope the electorate will give me the opportunity to demonstrate these skills and commitment as a LBK commissioner.

23RD ANNUAL

Siesta Key Craft Festival Ocean Blvd. in Siesta Key

February 25th – 26th Sat./Sun. 10am – 5pm

Free Admission ArtFestival.com American Craft Endeavors

223349

Information: (813) 962-0388

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

LONGBOAT

LETTERS

8A

Observer

To ensure letters regarding the Colony’s redevelopment run prior to the March 14 referendum, we are publishing them in lieu of our weekly editorial. Coming next week: recommendations for the Town Commission race. — Ed.

Resort reboot won’t bring back charm of original version The March 14 referendum has been advertised as a vote on the “Redevelopment of the Colony.”

There is an implication that something like the charming old tennis resort complex can somehow come back to life.

It won’t.

After seven years of neglect, the 24 tennis courts, the Monkey Bar, Tastebuds and the dozens of two-story beach houses are history. If the voters approve the referendum they will be replaced by five massive Miami-style residential towers. A “yes” vote

by Longboat Key residents will result in doubling the density of the old Colony site; over 400 additional residential and tourist units will be shoe horned in, adding potentially over 500 new cars or over a mile of daily traffic onto Gulf of Mexico.

At high season traffic will go from awful to even worse.

All of the proposed solutions: a ferry, a trolley, closer monitoring of bridge closings and pedestrian control around St. Armands are worth trying. But does anyone really believe there is a real traffic solution short of a massive new bridge system directly from Longboat Key to Sarasota, which is not even being seriously considered?

Longboat Key has worked up until now because decades ago Arvida laid out a sensible, restrictive development plan for a barrier island with severe limitations: a two-lane road that can only be exited at the south over a draw bridge and then through St. Armands and at the north through multiple draw bridges.

The key: Density was limited.

If this referendum passes, over 40 other properties on Longboat would be justified in petitioning for the same added density as is sought by Unicorp.

The Colony property can and should be developed as a hotel only, with no more than the 230 units that were previously in place. If Unicorp can’t or isn’t willing to proceed with the existing zoning, other capable hotel operators like Ocean Properties that previously expressed interest will almost certainly want to develop the best parcel remaining on Longboat Key. We will vote “No” on the referendum and urge all voters to do the same.

CHARLES AND ELAINE ROSEN LONGBOAT KEY

Redevelopment plan cannot be at the expense of others I am sure you have received many letters opposing the proposed Unicorp development on the Colony’s site.

I, however, feel I must write as well. But rather than focus on the technical laws in place, I am choosing to write about what Longboat Key has come to mean to me and my family.

In 1975, my parents had a friend who had bought a condo in Aquarius on the south side overlooking the Colony, but had chosen not to keep it because it was “too quiet” for his wife’s

“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 Editor / CEO / Matt Walsh mwalsh@yourobserver.com Vice President / Lisa Walsh lwalsh@yourobserver.com Publisher / Emily Walsh ewalsh@yourobserver.com Executive Editor / Kat Hughes khughes@yourobserver.com

John McGuire

Chuck Whittall, president of Unicorp, fields questions from Key residents.

liking. Knowing my parents as he did, he offered them the condo, explaining that with their busy lifestyle, Longboat would be a perfect oasis for them. Soon, my parents, my brother and I visited our magnificent Key for the first time. As it was to be a vacation property for our family, it was important to my parents that their children embrace it, because it was to be a place for us to come to as well as we grew up.

I have watched the Key grow, and with it the increase in traffic.

But I always knew there were laws in place to ensure Longboat never became a Miami with both density and height restrictions in place. While I could go on and on with my memories, the most important point is that our home on Longboat has been a place of great joy and happiness for us all. When my father became ill in 2008 and my mother felt she no longer wanted the responsibility of owning, my husband and I purchased the condo.

I find the proposed Unicorp plan for the old Colony site abhorrent on so many levels. We look over the Colony on the third floor and the idea that we would be looking into a 12-story building and have an access road near our fence is unthinkable.

While it is to everyone’s advantage to have a wonderful resort next door, it cannot be at the expense of everything that brought us to Longboat in the first place.

DENISE GRIMES LONGBOAT KEY

Developer’s plans incompatible with island’s character Recently, I attended a presentation by Unicorp’s Chuck Whittall, a developer who hopes to sell his dream for redeveloping the old Colony property. Mr. Whittall has purchased some of the former Colony property, knowing that it had a grandfathered nonconforming density of 237 hotel units. The conforming density for the Colony property is 103 units. But even with the increased density allowances, Mr. Whittall wants more.

He has drafted a site plan that he hopes the Longboat residents approve in a March 14 referendum that would allow him to add an additional 180 units (now a total of 417), a ballroom, a spa, two restaurants, a parking garage, various pools, several bars, retail stores and a five-star resort.

To accomplish this dream, Mr. Whittall wants the Longboat voters to support his plan and grant him exemptions from height restrictions, density restrictions, as well as ignore the obvious. His project is not only incompatible with our zoning and construction laws, but also with the charm and character of Longboat Key. Mr. Whittall is asking that he be allowed to increase his density to almost two times the density of most other developments on the Key. While he explains there will be plenty of green space and water features in his project, Mr. Whittall glosses over the fact that his plan portrays a horseshoe of 10-12 story buildings (not including one to two stories of parking) around the perimeter of the property. Gulf of Mexico Drive will have the view of the back of these glittering buildings very near the property line.

Mr. Whittall boldly states that the Florida Department of Transportation knows why we have traffic but does not have the money to fix it. Fear not, Mr. Whittall cites the traffic problems in Cortez as one of the culprits and states that he will pay for a lane extension, which by the way can only run for a few hundred yards, and a rotary.

What Mr. Whittall neglects to say is that this possible fix was one of the findings of an FDOT study done in 2007.

Acknowledging the age of the investigation and findings, a new FDOT study recently began to investigate the causes and possible solutions to our traffic troubles.

The Colony property has been shuttered for almost seven years — not a single car in or out of the former resort. Now consider if our traffic problems have increased or lessened in the past seven years? Meanwhile, Mr. Whittall contends his proposed project, with its increased density, employees and service vehicles, will alleviate our traffic.

Mr. Whittall’s plan for redevelopment of the Colony property is completely incompatible with what makes LBK special.

The Colony should be developed, but not with total disregard for what makes LBK extraordinary.

A “No” vote for the March 14 referendum is necessary to stop this overreaching development.

L.F. GESWELLI LONGBOAT KEY

Managing Editor / Eric Garwood egarwood@yourobserver.com Staff Writers / Katie Johns, kjohns@ yourobserver.com; John McGuire, jmcguire@yourobserver.com News Innovation Editor / Alex Mahadevan alexm@yourobserver.com Copy Editor / Kelly Carson kcarson@yourobserver.com Editorial Designers / Meghan Sasser msasser@yourobserver.com, C.J. Major, cmajor@yourobserver.com Arts + Entertainment Managing Editor / Nick Friedman, nfriedman@yourobserver.com Black Tie Reporter / Niki Kottmann nkottman@yourobserver.com Director of Advertising / Jill Raleigh jraleigh@yourobserver.com Sales Manager / Penny DiGregorio pdigregorio@yourobserver.com Digital Sales and Business Development Manager / Kathleen O’Hara, kohara@yourobserver.com Senior Advertising Executive / Laura Ritter, lritter@yourobserver.com Advertising Executives / JP Clayton, jpclayton@yourobserver.com Diane de Spirlet, ddespirlet@yourobserver.com Robyn Didelot, rdidelot@yourobserver.com Beth Jacobson, bjacobson@yourobserver.com Allison Kummery, akummery@yourobserver.com Robert Lewis, blewis@yourobserver.com Richeal Parisi, rparisi@yourobserver.com Toni Perren, tperren@yourobserver.com Sales Operations Manager / Susan Leedom, sleedom@yourobserver.com Sales Coordinator/Account Manager Lori Downey, ldowney@yourobserver.com Marisa Merlino, mmerlino@yourobserver.com Classified Advertising Sales Executives/ Maureen Hird, mhird@yourobserver.com Director of Creative Services and Information Technology / Kathy Payne, kpayne@yourobserver.com Creative Director / Caleb Stanton, cstanton@yourobserver.com Creative Services Coordinator / Marjorie Holloway, mholloway@yourobserver.com Technology & Development Manager / Adam Quinlin, aquinlin@yourobserver.com Information Technology Operations Manager / Mike Herndon, mherndon@yourobserver.com Advertising Graphic Designers / Thom Gravelle, Shawna Polana, Luis Trujillo, Allison Wampole Chief Financial Officer / Laura Keisacker lkeisacker@yourobserver.com Controller / Rafael Labrin, rlabrin@yourobserver.com Office Coordinator-Subscriptions / Donna Condon, dcondon@yourobserver.com

Observer Media Group Inc.

is locally owned.

Publishers of the Longboat Observer, East County Observer, Sarasota Observer, Siesta Key Observer Palm Coast Observer, Plant City Times & Observer, Ormond Beach Observer, West Orange Times & Observer, Windermere Observer, Business Observer, LWR Life Magazine and Season Magazine.

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

5570 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key, FL 34228 941-383-5509

YourObserver.com © 2017 The Observer Media Group Inc. All Rights Reserved

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

KATHERINE KLAUBER MOULTON FORMER COLONY PRESIDENT AND GM

T

hough no longer with a “dog in the fight” or a resident of Longboat Key, I care deeply about what happens at the Colony Beach & Tennis Resort site. From initial introduction to the magical resort back in the Field family era, to my first job as a server at the age of 12 at the celebrated Sunday brunch after my father, Murf Klauber, took charge in the early 1970s, through to being appointed president and general manager for a nearly 30-year stint, a piece of my heart will always be at The Colony — in whatever it is and anything it becomes.

Not a day goes by, more than seven years after closing the resort, that someone doesn’t share with me a special memory of a visit, dinner, celebration or other moment that created an indelible remembrance. And no matter how hostile, hurtful and ultimately devastating to the business’ survival the legal battles and personal attacks were, the thoughts I have of The Colony are nearly all of the joy more than 5 million hotel guests and countless day visitors and diners came away with — not to mention the thousands of employees who also had fun, loved the art of providing fine service to our guests and whose families were cared for and sustained through their hard work.

It was indeed a very, very special place where magic really did happen every day!

Today, there are thousands who call Sarasota and Longboat Key home (or second home) because of The Colony’s introduction to our paradise.

The community’s health and human services, performing and visual arts, education, retail and restaurants, hospitals and all the services and amenities that we enjoy are buoyed by the economic value of these residents.

The gaping hole that was created by the unit owners’ decision to shutter the resort is still painful for many local businesses. The Colony needs once again to become a part of the economic engine that contributes to our quality of life.

Recently, I had the opportunity to sit with Chuck Whittall and Amy Schuemann of Unicorp Developments Co., currently the only developer in active dialogue with the unit owners and who have considerable Colony property ownership and proven experience to bring the development to completion. Over the past few years of observing Mr. Whittall, I witnessed not only perseverance, but a true passion for the property and Longboat Key, as well as a commitment to the future success of a thriving enterprise there and loyal community partner.

Sure, the concept plan he presented couldn’t possibly be more different than what we all remember as The Colony. But that era has come and gone. It is time for Longboat and the property to once again gain global prominence.

Though I am no longer actively operating a resort, I continue to be involved in the industry, directing an international consortium of expert hospitality consultants. I am an active consultant myself and

work to support my husband, one of the leading luxury Realtors in the region. In addition, I follow countless hospitality, real estate and related industries newsletters and expert commentators daily. Studying consumer behavior, demands and needs, economic conditions, even architectural and interior design trends are all part of my insatiable and curious nature.

With that experience and knowledge, I weighed the presentation by Unicorp. What was presented was bold and quite formidable on many levels, and likely even potentially a bit alarming to some. But I like the direction the project is heading. To be financially viable in today’s marketplace, it is not reasonable or possible to build a luxury resort without the luxury condominium component, which also helps support the fine amenities and dining facilities that are needed at a resort of the highest caliber — and, which we would also have the opportunity to enjoy.

The March 14 referendum vote facing Longboat Key residents is important to support on several levels: n Foremost, the vote is only for the acreage that encompasses The Colony property. It does not have an effect on any other property on the island. n The referendum opponents are creating undue alarm by suggesting that every other nonconforming property on the island will suddenly be permitted allowance for density and use changes as a result of The Colony referendum. That is not the case. Each property must make sound and reasonable requests and gain its own approval. n No legal precedence will be set by the approval of the referendum. n No site plan approval is yet

on the table.

After approval of the density referendum, there will be endless opportunities for the community to participate in meetings and hearings to review and likely amend design elements such as height, view corridors, open space, parking, ingress and egress, etc.

The March 14 vote will not include approvals for the concept site plan that Unicorp has presented.

And a few points of reference related to the “old” Colony: n Most residents are aware that there are 160 available hotel units in the town’s tourism pool that can be requested, and some large portion would likely be approved for the Colony site should it remain entirely tourism zoned. n Before the legal struggles that ultimately befell the Colony, there was a plan to request 100 additional tourism units to be built on the property, and all indications at that time from the sitting commissioners was that they would be approved. That would have brought Colony units to about 340 units — or about 20 units per acre. n The Colony had more than 1,000 beds on property due to the “condominium” nature of the accommodations. At peak occupancy periods, not only were all beds in use, but many units also had sofas and floors filled by extended family and friends joining the fun. n Adding another 100 units would have brought the total number of guests able to be accommodated to at least 1,500 — or more, depending on the configuration of the units. The plan from Unicorp currently calls for fewer than 1,000 beds on the property. n The Colony’s previous property layout had only surface car parking. Views from the rooms and for visitors

traversing the property were unsightly, and acres of what would otherwise be gardens and open space were consumed by vehicles.

In the Unicorp plan, it appears the goal is to have essentially all car parking under buildings, allowing for more landscaping and far more open space.

And what about those cars?

Wait to make judgment on traffic impact until the proposals that Unicorp is making can be vetted. There are some clever solutions being suggested, and Whittall also says he would make financial contribution to so they can be accomplished.

It is important that every voting resident take the time to attend one of Unicorp’s presentations on the Key so that you can see and hear for yourself what is being proposed and what the language of the referendum actually says.

I am just one voice, and not even a voter on Longboat. But I do come with a pretty good history on Longboat, have extensive knowledge of the hospitality industry, have been involved in economic development and community service in Sarasota for decades, and have intimate knowledge of the property and its strengths and weaknesses.

I have no personal financial interest in the redevelopment of The Colony. But I care very deeply about what will happen.

I believe that voting FOR the referendum on March 14, providing density approval for the redevelopment of The Colony, is a critical step in realizing the property’s full potential.

Then the community can move to the next step — site plan review. Without a positive vote, the property will be mired in years more of legal conflicts and will continue to harm Longboat Key’s enchantment and allure.

MY VIEW

Time to recognize Colony’s full potential To be financially viable in today’s marketplace, including residential units is a component of every luxury resort.

9A

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

State Certified General Contractor

•Porch Enclosures •Parts •Repair

•HURRICANE WINDOWS ALSO AVAILABLE …

IMPACT ENERGY STAR RATED 5330 Ashton Ct., Sarasota

492-5200 1955 So. Trail, Venice

48

mo.*

NO INTEREST

227044

921-1113

SPECIAL PURCHASE

FINANCING

Since 1969 • www.wilson-window.com

SEE STORE FOR DETAILS.

OR SPEND & SAVE WITH THE COUPONS

Stop in the name of

OFFER CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH OTHER DISCOUNTS.

50 OFF

any Purchase over $499

$

100 OFF

any Purchase over $999

$

200 OFF

any Purchase over $1999

300 OFF

$

any Purchase over $2999

an evening of Motown and Soul

400 OFF

$

Saturday, March 11, 2017

Visit the Parade of Homes February 18 - March 5

Hyatt Regency Sarasota

Ticket Price, $200 Table of Eight, $1,500

Stylish Sofa & Love Seat Group

PREMIUM RAFFLE TICKETS

226685

226550

SARASOTA om

use.c

areho

.furnw www

4027 N. Washington 1 Mile South of University on 301

941-351-8600 Mon.-Sat. 9-9 Sun. 11-6

599

$

Upholstered in 100% Microfiber fabric. Style, comfort & unquestionable value!

Sofa & Loveseat

$25 each or 5 for $100 7 amazing raffle prizes! 3 vacations including a trip to anywhere in the world, Italian jewelry and more.

Drawing held 3/11- NEED NOT BE PRESENT TO WIN Buy tickets now at www.catdepot.org

The resource for Rescue, Adoption, & Education

$

BRADENTON

any Purchase over $3999

For Details...www.paradeofhomesinfo.com

Grand Prize Sponsor Win a $1,000 Shopping Spree!

Enter at any of our five locations or online at www.furnwarehouse.com

ELLENTON

VENICE

500 OFF

$

any Purchase over $4999

PORT CHARLOTTE

1100 West Cortez Rd. Northeast Corner of Cortez Rd. and 41

5814 18th St East Across from the Ellenton Outlet Mall

550 S. Seaboard Ave. Just North Of Venice Nissan on U.S. 41 Bypass

1241 El Jobean Rd. (776 across from Sam’s)

Mon.-Sat. 9-9 Sun. 11-6

Mon.-Sat. 9-9 Sun. 11-6

Mon.-Sat. 9-6 Sun. 11-6

Mon.-Sat. 9-9 Sun. 11-6

941-749-6069

941-479-7900

941-485-3211

941-764-8700

*Offer applies to only single-receipt qualifying purchases. No interest will be charged on promo purchase and equal monthly payments are required equal to initial promo purchase amount divided equally by the number of months in promo period until promo is paid in full. The equal monthly payment will be rounded to the next highest whole dollar and may be higher than the minimum payment that would be required it the purchase was a non-promotional purchase. Regular account terms apply to non-promotional purchases. For new accounts: Purchase APR is 29.99%; Minimum Interest Charge is $2. Existing cardholders should see their credit card agreement for their applicable terms. Subject to credit approval. Terms of promotions - Previous purchase excluded, cannot be combined with any other promotion or discount. Discount offers exclude Hot Buys, floor models or clearance items, sales tax, furniture protection plans, warranty, delivery, or service charge.

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

|

GROOMS MOTORS & AUTOMOTIVE Robby Self

former operator of North Longboat Key Chevron Station

941.896.7898

5608 Marina Drive • Holmes Beach

229883

is Now operating at Grooms Motors in Holmes Beach Call Robby today to book your next oil change and service check-up.

Now Serving LUNCH & BRUNCH All-new menu, featuring Prime Rib Skillet Hash, Caprese Omelets, Buttermilk Cornmeal Pancakes, Crab Club Sandwich & more!

Available Saturdays & Sundays Only

11am – 4pm

201 Gulf of Mexico Drive • Longboat Key • 941.383.5593

NATIONAL y r a u CHOCOLATE r b Fe is LOVERS MONTH!

25% OFF

ALL CHOCOLATE BARK, ALL OF FEBRUARY!

What a great time to try Tyler’s exclusive line of Artisan Belgium Chocolates crafted just for us

by The Chocolate Bark Company of Sarasota.

SWEET DEAL!!

EXPIRES 2.28.17 WITH COUPON. LONGBOAT LOCATION ONLY.

230669

TYLER’S GOURMET ICE CREAM 5350 Gulf of Mexico Dr. In the Centre Shops of Longboat Key

941.383.6935 TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION MARCH 14, 2017 Early Voting will take place at the Longboat Key Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key, FL for ALL Longboat Key (Sarasota and Manatee) registered voters.

March 6 through March 11, 2017 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

The following schedule has been established regarding the Town of Longboat Key Canvassing Boards for the March 14, 2017 General Municipal Election. All meetings are open to the public.

LOCATION

LOCATION

DATES/EVENTS March 1, 2017 @ 9:00 a.m.

Logic & Accuracy Test for Tabulating Equipment

DATES/EVENTS March 3, 2017 @ 9:00 a.m.

Logic & Accuracy Test for Tabulating Equipment

March 7, 2017 @ 8:30 a.m.

Initial Canvass of Vote-by-Mail Ballots

March 3, 2015 @ 9:00 a.m.

Initial Canvass of Vote-by Mail Ballots

March 13, 2017 @ 11:00 a.m.

Canvass Vote-by-Mail Ballot

March 14, 2017 @ 5:30 p.m.

Final Canvass Vote-by-Mail Ballot & Election

Sarasota County Supervisor of Elections 2001 Adams Lane Sarasota, FL

March 14, 2017 @ 4:00 p.m.

Final Canvass Vote-by-Mail Ballot and Election March 16, 2017 @ 5:00 p.m.

Provisional Ballot Canvass & Certification

Manatee County Supervisor of Elections 600 301 Blvd West, Suite 108 Bradenton, FL

March 17, 2017 @ 9:00 p.m.

Provisional Ballot Canvass & Certification and Manual Audit

STAFF WRITER

After Unicorp National Developments President Chuck Whittall gave a presentation about his vision for the former Colony Beach & Tennis Resort property at an informational meeting last week, the developer fielded both criticism and praise from members of the audience.

Whittall’s plan includes adding 180 residential units to the Colony’s 237 tourism units, and requires an approval via density referendum, which will take place on March 14. The idea is at the mercy of voters on Longboat Key. Jennifer Allen, 45, who has owned property at The Promenade for 13 years, plans to vote “yes” on the referendum. She said she would love to have the amenities Whittall’s resort will offer, such as restaurants and spas, available right on the Key instead of needing to travel off-island.

Allen said she knows many Key voters in her age group support the referendum.

“I can vote,” she said after the meeting, which was held at Temple Beth Israel. “And so can 100 of my friends.”

Others in attendance, like David Lapovsky, were less positive about Whittall’s plan. Lapovsky, who has owned property on the Key for eight years, believes the developer is being disingenuous about his motivations. “(Whitall has) gotten the town confused,” Lapovsky said. “The need to add 180 units is his need, not ours.”

Whittall’s presentation focused on how he believes his company’s project will benefit Key residents.

He stressed that amenities provided by the resort will be available to everyone on the Key, not just those living or staying on the property. He also discussed how he believes the resort will attract homebuyers and raise property values, as well as provide local businesses with more customers after the season ends.

“During the offseason, these people struggle,” Whittall told his audience, which was made up of more than 40 people.

The developer addressed concerns such as traffic, saying his company is willing to help finance improvements to problem areas, such as St. Armands Circle.

Whittall also spoke of incentivizing guests at his resort to avoid renting or bringing cars by offering a free trolley service, airport shuttle and charging parking fees.

“We know we have to help fix the traffic the hotel will create,” Whittall said.

COLONY REFERENDUM May the Town allow The Colony property at 1620 Gulf of Mexico Drive (approximately 17.3 acres), zoned T-6 (allowing 6 units per acre) but having a non-conforming density for tourism uses of 13.6 units per acre and 237 tourism units, to increase density to add 180 residential units for a potential density of 24.11 units per acre (417 total units).

As for concerns about height, Whittall said the buildings he’s proposed are comparable in size to other Key buildings, such as the Resort at the Longboat Key Club.

Whittall said he’s willing to negotiate the height and density of the project, but the referendum must be approved before negotiations can begin.

No matter what happens on March 14, Whittall insisted he’s not willing to sell the property, on which he said he’s already spent $27 million.

Unicorp’s plan, as it is, is not the most lucrative option for the property, Whittall said.

“Believe it or not, the most profitable thing for me to put on this project is 103 condos,” Whittall told the crowd. “I can make significantly more money.”

Some in the audience applauded and shouted “Do it!”

Whittall responded by saying 103 condos would do nothing to benefit present and future restaurants and businesses on the Key. “You wouldn’t have the tourism element that is so vital,” he said.

If the referendum passes, and further town approvals follow, Unicorp hopes to break ground on the project during spring 2018 with a goal of completion by the end of 2020.

Whittall has had more than a dozen of these meetings, he said, and he has six more planned before the referendum. Currently, he believes opinion on the referendum among Key voters is divided in half.

While many in the audience appeared certain in how they will vote, some remain undecided, like David Gorin, a Key resident for the past six years. Gorin supports improving the Colony property, but he’s uncertain about the specifics of Whittall’s vision.

“I wish they could negotiate before the referendum,” Gorin said.

.. n. tio y a c e Lo K d at 2n gbo w n No Lo

LBK Design Studio Kitchen • Bath Remodels

Now Open at the Centre Shops

5360 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key

GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION DAY March 14, 2017 - 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

230285

JOHN MCGUIRE

LeVant - Southern Stone - Custom Cupboards Quoizel - Top Knobs - Pompeii - Caesarstone

March 21, 2017 @ 1:00 p.m.

Voting System Audit

Sarasota: Precinct 201 Polling location: (Town Hall) 501 Bay Isles Road Longboat Key, FL

231137

[$3 Mimosas or Bloody Marys!]

Tensions remain high at Colony meetings

Manatee: Precinct 309 Polling location: (Longboat Island Chapel) 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key, FL

941-554-4347 diane@cabinetree.net

Original Venice Location 1207 S US 41 By-Pass, Venice 941-488-6464 www.cabinetree.net

229898

10A

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

11A

Landscape with House and Ploughman (detail) Vincent van Gogh

565 Sanctuary Drive #A202 $1,690,000 | Web ID A4177947 Debra Garrett 941.685.1086

5200 West 17th Street $27,000,000 | Web ID A4169833 Don Wood 303.929.9805

216 Bird Key Drive $4,750,000 | Web ID A4171628 Jo Rutstein 941.587.9156

500 South Palm Avenue #22 $1,750,000 | Web ID A4162691 Debra Garrett 941.685.1086

35 Watergate Drive #704 $1,699,000 | Web ID A4133750 Joel Schemmel 941.587.4894

990 Boulevard of the Arts #601 $1,695,000 | Web ID A4157589 Barbara Mei 941.893.7417

12626 Baypointe Terrace $1,695,000 | Web ID A4169885 Frank Lambert & Anita Lambert 941.920.1500

628 Key Royale Drive $1,575,000 | Web ID A4150274 Sheldon Paley 941.356.1857

7140 La Lenaire Drive $1,450,000 | Web ID A4151536 Brandi Furlan & Lisa Morreale 941.894.9888

3391 Bayou Sound $1,350,000 | Web ID A4171596 Marty Benson 941.232.9264

7149 La Lenaire Drive $1,275,000 | Web ID A4151158 Kimberly Freiwald 941.256.6775

5809 Gulf of Mexico Drive $1,274,000 | Web ID A4152287 Peter Laughlin 941.356.8428

650 Golden Gate Point #301 $1,250,000 | Web ID A4153912 Laurie Johnson 941.544.0969

505 South Orange Avenue #603 $1,175,000 | Web ID A4167695 Louis Wery 941.232.3001

3020 Gulf of Mexico Drive $1,085,000 | Web ID A4143549 Andrew Bers 941.302.4400

1485 Gulf of Mexico Drive #505 $1,049,000 | Web ID A4172884 Ken Ipox 941.993.7279

501 Haben Boulevard #1104 $995,000 | Web ID A4177435 Mary Hellhake-Northrup 941.544.0763

118 12th Avenue East $964,900 | Web ID A4162772 Devon Davis & Warren Merriman 941.720.2053

119 52nd Street $899,900 | Web ID A4171972 Shellie Young 941.713.5458

114 4th Street South $895,000 | Web ID A4177535 Peter Laughlin 941.356.8428

2105 Gulf Of Mexico Drive #3204 $835,000 | Web ID A4172301 Dennis Girard 941.809.0041

1101 3rd Street East $799,000 | Web ID A4154843 Arnie DuFort 941.224.8602

2371 Harbour Oaks Drive $675,000 | Web ID A4176868 Michelle Crabtree 941.724.4663

1075 Gulf of Mexico Drive #103 $659,000 | Web ID A4163531 Traute Winsor & Annette Rogers 941.504.1949

1 Benjamin Franklin Drive #65 $659,000 | Web ID A4172032 Keith Whitfield & Sharon Whitfield 941.383.2500

2525 Gulf of Mexico Drive #6C $650,000 | Web ID A4172413 Carmen Baskind & Marty Warren 941.724.1854

1770 Benjamin Franklin Drive #602 $645,000 | Web ID A4169596 Richard Dow & Kate DeVilliers 941.388.1023

1801 97th NW Street $639,000 | Web ID A4165704 Louis Wery 941.232.3001

1050 Longboat Club Road #305 $625,000 | Web ID A4171118 Dennis Girard 941.809.0041

2026 84th Circle NW $539,900 | Web ID A4175174 Jason Skowronski 941.812.6090

1634 Alderman Street $499,000 | Web ID A4170918 Daniel Volz 941.893.3757

707 South Gulfstream Avenue #904 $498,000 | Web ID A4166666 Louis Wery 941.232.3001

2193 Harbourside Drive $495,000 | Web ID A4174375 Marty Benson 941.232.9264

2016 Harbourside Drive #322 $494,000 | Web ID A4167490 Greg Van Natter 941.730.1999

1050 Longboat Club Road #303 $449,900 | Web ID A4163244 Dennis Girard 941.809.0041

1109 De Narvaez Avenue $410,000 | Web ID A4177266 Sandi Ansilio 941.586.8679

501 Haben Boulevard #906 $379,900 | Web ID A4148485 Mary Hellhake-Northrup 941.544.0763

5841 Gulf of Mexico Drive #254 $375,000 | Web ID A4151365 Dennis Girard 941.809.0041

1700 Benjamin Franklin Drive #6F $318,000 | Web ID A4174235 Karin Stephan 941.504.4435

20,000 associates | 850 offices worldwide | 65 countries and territories globally | 40 Premier Sotheby’s International Realty locations LONGBOAT KEY | 941.383.1526 ST. ARMANDS | 941.383.2500

SARASOTA - DOWNTOWN | 941.364.4000

LAKEWOOD RANCH | 941.907.9541

VENICE | 941.412.3323

Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate and neither suggests nor infers that Premier Sotheby’s International Realty participated as either the listing or cooperating agent or broker in the sale or purchase of the properties depicted. *Landscape with House and Ploughman (detail) by Vincent van Gogh used with permission.

230887

Wall Street Journal and REAL Trends Top 500 OVER $4 BILLION IN SALES VOLUME IN 2015 *

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED PARTNER WITH A GLOBAL REACH

PREMIERSOTHEBYSREALTY.COM

12A

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

LUXURY WATER SEVEN YEARS AS SARASOTA’S #1 REALTOR! CALL TODAY FOR YO

1011 LONGBOAT CLUB ROAD

638 BAYVIEW DRIVE

3261 BAYOU SOUND

Surround yourself in the beauty found at this custom, 5,000 SF estate. From the expansive four-bedroom layout with a gourmet kitchen and eye-catching views, to the open pool deck with a heated swimming pool, covered entertaining areas and summer kitchen, there is an aspect for everyone to enjoy at this designer home.

Newer bayfront home ready for you to make your own memories in, filled with custom details and a serene setting.

This four-bedroom plus office residence features designer finishes, an expansive split-level floor plan and 157’ of water frontage. The rooftop terrace is the ideal place to enjoy panoramic sunrises and far-reaching bay vistas.

Enjoy a secluded, waterfront lifestyle in this lovely threebedroom plus loft/office home resting on more than a quarter-acre of property overlooking Crane’s Bayou. Offering deep-water dock, lift and an open floor plan. Bayou residents love deeded access to the private Bay Isles Beach Club, just a sunny bike ride away.

www.1011LongboatClubRoad.com

www.638BayviewDrive.com

www.3261BayouSound.com

$2,495,000

$2,495,000

$1,395,000

GRAND BAY

BEACHPLACE

3040 GRAND BAY BOULEVARD #221 1055 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #106 A few steps from the open, walk-down terrace of this charmingly-furnished, updated residence is the Beachplace community boardwalk, leading out to pristine Gulf beaches to enjoy at your leisure. The open, THREE-BEDROOM layout offers lovely updates throughout, including newer kitchen and bathrooms, as well as oversized tile flooring. Includes covered parking.

The impressive custom updates featured in this corner Antigua residence are a rarity.

Renovating and opening up the gourmet kitchen to the living room, with its glass walls and unmatched panoramic views, creates an ideal atmosphere for entertaining. Includes two covered parking spaces and may include stylish furnishings separately.

$1,695,000

www.GrandBay221.com

$1,249,000

www.Beachplace8106.com

1075 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #7-502

1125 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #3-103

Sprawling views, beautiful hardwood flooring, walls of new windows and sliders, plus a newer eat-in kitchen welcome you to this updated, 2BR getaway. A few steps to enjoy Gulf beaches.

Step out to the heated swimming pool and the pristine shores of the Gulf directly from the open terrace of this two-bedroom, updated beach getaway. Offered furnished with new windows.

www.Beachplace7502.com

www.Beachplace3103.com

$725,000

3030 GRAND BAY BOULEVARD #392

The high-floor location of this beautiful, eighthfloor Cayman residence offers breathtaking views of Harbourside Moorings Marina, golf course, Sarasota Bay, the Gulf and lush grounds of Grand Bay from every room.

Panoramic ninth-floor views! The 2,200+ SF layout lives like a single-family home where you will love entertaining guests, enjoying a relaxing island lifestyle and access to a private beach.

www.GrandBay384.com

www.GrandBay392.com

$1,249,000

$1,099,000

$629,000

1105 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #5-103

1115 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #4-503

The peaceful lake and fountain views showcased from this upgraded 2BR walk-down will be hard to ever leave. Beach and community access is steps away. Includes one udner-building parking space.

Fall in love with the lovely updates featured in this furnished, 2BR/2BA residence. This fifth-floor residence offers lovely direct views of the Gulf, lake and community, with many upgrades throughout.

www.Beachplace5103.com

www.Beachplace4503.com

$629,000

3030 GRAND BAY BOULEVARD #384

$599,000

3030 GRAND BAY BOULEVARD #345

3080 GRAND BAY BOULEVARD #524

Desirable direct views of the Harbourside Marina, golf course, Sarasota Bay and downtown greet you from this Biscayne residence. Glass walls bring the outside in, opening to an expansive wraparound terrace.

Walk in and fall in love with this charming two-bedroom Capri residence in Building V at Grand Bay. Two terraces (east and west-facing) provide the perfect place to enjoy languid Florida breezes.

www.GrandBay345.com

www.GrandBay524.com

$999,000

$695,000

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

13A

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

RFRONT PROPERTIES UR EXCLUSIVE TOUR (941) 387-1840

1281 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #701

415 L’AMBIANCE DRIVE #D906

1211 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #904

Panoramic sunrise to sunset views! Rarely available, this direct Gulf-front, three-bedroom Arlington residence is in the southwest corner of the second building at Water Club, featuring three generous terraces, cook’s kitchen, open den and two secure parking spaces. The first-rate amenities and proximity to the beach will make it hard to ever leave.

Direct Gulf and bay views will mesmerize you from each room of this stunning, ninth-floor Sabal residence in the south building at L’Ambiance. Two secured parking spaces included! The 2,800 SF, three-bedroom layout lives like a single-family home, offering 12’ ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glass walls and lovely east and west-facing terraces.

Gulf-to-Bay penthouse at the Promenade! Stunning ninthfloor sunrise and sunset views abound from this top-floor, updated residence. Located on the sunny SOUTH side of the building, featuring high-end finishes, a true THREEBEDROOM layout, new kitchen and baths, custom cabinety and countertops, as well as top-of-the-line appliances.

www.WaterClubNorth701.com

www.415LAmbianceD906.com

www.PromenadePenthouse904.com

$3,295,000

$2,495,000

$1,289,000

LONGBOAT KEY

5080 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE Adoringly called “Notre Paradis,” this opulent bayfront estate is situated on almost a full acre of property overlooking Sarasota Bay. The gated entry welcomes you to this special residence, showcasing extraordinary views, nearly 9,000 SF of European-inspired decor and 2,300+ SF of Travertine terraces and balconies. A truly private estate, best experienced first-hand.

$6,990,000

7100 LONGBOAT DRIVE EAST

4239 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #MH2

You will simply love the coastal, Cape Cod inspired transformations at this boater’s paradise. This 4BR+bonus room features main and guest homes. www.7100LongboatDriveEast.com $1,695,000

Completely updated BEACH HOME! This 2BR/21/2BA direct Gulf-front home, in a pet-friendly community. Relish pristine shores of the Gulf in your backyard. www.PelicanHarbourMH2.com

$1,345,000

512 HORNBLOWER LANE

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE! This amazing view could be yours to enjoy every day! The superb, southfacing point-lot location of this direct bayfront home is a boater’s dream. Offering more than 240feet of water frontage overlooking Sarasota Bay, 90-feet of deep-water dockage, a 27,000-pound lift and plenty of space for an additional lift.

Renovated, inside and out, this lovely threebedroom waterfront home in Country Club Shores is move-in ready. Walls of floor-to-ceiling glass, a revamped floor plan and 13’ ceilings create a light and bright atmosphere. The impressive newer kitchen was updated in 2013.

Relax on the 1,200 SF covered lanai.

www.584HornblowerLane.com

www.512HornblowerLane.com

$2,895,000

$1,079,000

1021 LONGBOAT CLUB ROAD

3030 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE

2301 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #71N

Take advantage of this rare opportunity to design your dream home on a half-acre of property behind the exclusive gates of Longboat Key Club. www.1021LongboatClubRoad.com $999,000

Enjoy a Key West inspired lifestyle at this beautifully-updated, 3BR custom home just a few steps from the white powdery shores of the Gulf of Mexico. www.3030GulfofMexicoDrive.com $979,000

A showcase of panoramic Gulf and sunset views! Beautifully-updated 2BR/2BA is a few steps from powderywhite beach shores. www.IslanderClub71N.com $895,000

575 SANCTUARY DRIVE #A202 Lush views of Islandside golf course’s rolling greens and Gulf sunsets stretch on forever from this 3BR corner residence. www.575SanctuaryA202.com

1211 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #406

Move right in! This furnished 2BR residence is waiting for you to enjoy the updated kitchen, newer baths and sunset views. www.Promenade406.com

712 MARBURY LANE Appreciate a secluded, waterfront lifestyle at this elevated 3BR/2BA home in Sleepy Lagoon. Includes newer furniture. www.712MarburyLane.com

$838,000

$799,000

$729,000

604 BUTTONWOOD DRIVE Easy beach and bay access create wonderful surroundings at this 3BR/2BA home in a central Longboat Key neighborhood. www.604ButtonwoodDrive.com

3240 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #B501

Rarely-available, 3BR, top-floor residence directly overlooking Sarasota Bay. Offering two covered parking spaces! www.BeachHarborClubE412.com

$699,000

$599,000

$499,000

3808 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #E412

A spotless, neutral decor with newer furnishings included, create a move-in ready environment at this 2BR/2BA getaway. www.PortobelloB501.com

201 Gulf of Mexico Drive Suite 1, Longboat Key, Florida 34228 office: (941) 387-1840 cell: (941) 586-6668 fax: (941) 827-9444 website: longboatrealestate.com e-mail: roger@pettingell.com Owned and operated by NRT, LLC

229080

www.5080GulfofMexicoDrive.com

584 HORNBLOWER LANE

14A

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

Height limit: 80 feet File photo

At 183 feet, Islands West is one of the tallest structures on Longboat Key.

ALEX MAHADEVAN NEWS INNOVATION EDITOR

F

uture redevelopment on Longboat Key has become such a hot-button issue, Planning and Zoning Board Chairman Jim Brown has taken to carrying a list of nonconforming properties and other land-use data with him around town.

“I can’t go into Publix without people asking me about this

stuff,” he said during Tuesday’s meeting.

And although it generated nearly two hours of discussion at the meeting, the island is closer to new regulations regarding planned-unit developments, or PUDs, which are designed to encourage redevelopment of old properties through a voluntary zoning process.

The board concluded roughly a year of deliberations about PUDs,

SEAFOOD • PASTA • FISH • PASTA • BEEF • SALADS • LOBSTER

LIA

ITA

LBK ’S NEIGHBORHOOD ITALIAN RESTAUR ANT Since 1990

229875

Casual Italian Cuisine Hand Tossed Brick Oven Pizza

DINNER Nightly 4:30 - 10:00

Early Dining and 2 for 1 Wine or Tap Beer 4:30 - 6 pm Nightly

Located in Mid-Longboat Key in the Centre Shops • 5370 Gulf of Mexico Dr.

Beer & Wine • 383-0010 • Take Out Available

board members, Planning, Zoning and Building Director Alaina Ray and Town Attorney Maggie Mooney-Portale settled on waivers that would give town commissioners discretion to reduce the setback distance.

“This is a little squishy for me,” Board Member George Symanski Jr. said of a portion of the new ordinance language.

“Well, things get squishy when you get flexible,” Ray said with a laugh.

Further clouding the process is the March 14 referendum for the redevelopment of the Colony Beach & Tennis Resort, which would likely use the PUD process.

Unicorp National Developments President Chuck Whittall urged the planning board to set height limitations at eight stories, rather than 80 feet, and relax setback, open space and other requirements.

“It really is starting to feel like we’re being boxed in — literally — to where you’re building a big square building in the back center of the property, and that flexibility is being lost to create really beautiful architecture,” said Unicorp Senior Vice President Amy Schuemann.

Whittall said despite a conceptual plan that includes buildings taller than 80 feet, his team is willing to compromise with the town and residents after the referendum.

“I think if we’re successful in the referendum the voters will be sending a message that they’re generally accepting of the plan,” he said. “But, we have heard the community, and if they don’t want buildings over 10 stories, then we’re going to respect that.”

Pink Pineapple

MUSSELS • LOBSTER • ANTIPASTO

MUSSELS • LOBSTER • ANTIPASTO

Planning board members set a height limit on an otherwise flexible development process to keep the character of Longboat Key.

with the same issue: How does the island balance flexibility of redevelopment with maintaining the character of the Key? In the end, board members approved language in an ordinance that allows additional height — up to 80 feet over elevation — for new buildings, as long as buildings are set back 2.5 times the height of the building from Gulf of Mexico Drive. The recommendation now heads to the Town Commission for discussion and final consideration.

“This is not about one project or another, this about our whole island, and 80 feet is reasonable for the length of this island and the projects that may or may not come forward,” said Vice Chairwoman B.J. Bishop. Depending on the zoning a property falls within, the highest a building can be constructed currently is 65 feet.

The new ordinance also includes adding more distance from neighboring properties and providing plans to show no effects on the shadowing from taller buildings, planting vegetation to minimize the “canyon effect” from GMD, and even a determination from the Town Commission that the proposal is “consistent with the character of the surrounding area.”

“It is much easier to function when you have criteria that people understand before they show up at their first public hearing trying to twist your arm or buy enough ink in the newspaper to influence your decisions,” Bishop said.

But what about some gulf-front properties that are too shallow to meet the GMD setback requirements? At Tuesday’s meeting,

Distinctive Home Furnishings

THIS WEEK IN ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 229914

FURNITURE • LIGHTING ACCESSORIES SLIPCOVERED UPHOLSTERY

941-761-1947

7500 Cortez Rd Bradenton, FL.

Now accepting NEW CLIENTS and REFERRALS! • • • • • •

Surgery Dentistry Boarding Day Care Baths Food & Supplies

A+E eNewsletter Connor Bystrom, DVM

SIGN UP TODAY!

yourobserver.com/email-signup

William V. Bystrom, DVM

Holmes Business Center, 5343 Gulf Drive #900 islandanimalclinic.com | 8-5:30 M-F, 9-Noon Wed.

941.778.2445

230418

232528

Learn What’s going on in Sarasota’s arts & music scene.

Every Friday. Your News Your Way

Ashley Gardner Sorice, DVM

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

15A

Keep Longboat Special - Do Not Approve the Increased Density of the Colony Site Vote No On March 14 Will You Allow Longboat Key to Lose its Character and Charm?

My local friends and neighbors love Longboat Key just as it is. Same with me.

We all have our stories of discovering Longboat Key, most of which go back to prior generations. I came here for the first time in 1985 when my folks decided to buy a place here. I was skeptical, as growing up we were all Florida East Coast people.

However once I crossed over the drawbridge and saw this oasis for the first time I was sold. You see this place with its beautiful beaches, spectacular landscaping, and small quaint community feel was the perfect antidote to my stressful work life.

In its current form it is the perfect place to relax with family and friends and make a lifetime of multi-generational memories that could not be recreated anywhere but here. I love this place.

However, now as a community we are faced with our most important potentially transformative decision. Make no mistake. If the March 14th Colony property referendum is affirmed our little oasis will be immediately changed forever. This is not just about 1620 Gulf of Mexico Drive, but instead passage will allow a rapid spread of development throughout the Key that will completely stress our infrastructure (traffic, stores, services, etc.) and ruin the character and feel of Longboat Key. Like so many others I am lucky enough to have the means to settle almost anywhere, but I chose here.

Please do not allow Longboat Key to become something it was never meant to be.

Greghis VanHowe A concerned citizen who enjoys privacy Longboat Key

You Have the Power:

Vote No on March 14 231944

Paid Political Advertisement paid for by Preserve Longboat, Inc., P.O. Box 8101, Longboat Key, FL 34228

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

FEB. 13

BARKING UP THE WRONG UNIT 11:20 a.m. — 2200 block of GMD Noise Disturbance: A resident called police to report that owners at a neighboring property were letting their dogs out on the balcony, and the dogs were barking at night. Police told the caller to immediately notify police next time so officers could identify the unit from which the canine noise was coming and speak with the dog owners.

FEB. 14

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

DRONE DISTURBANCE 1:10 p.m. — 5600 block of GMD Noise Disturbance: A man reported that someone had been flying a drone near his and other houses, and was afraid

the pilot would lose control and crash it onto his lanai. Also, the man told officers the flying object was making loud buzzing noises. The owners of the drone left the beach area before police arrived.

FEB. 16

SHANKED IT 1:17 p.m. — 500 block of GMD Property Damage: A man walked into the police station to report that an errant golf ball had struck his rental car.

Officers found a small dent on the roof of the vehicle, and determined the ball caused about $100 in damage.

CLEANING UP 6:20 p.m. — 500 block of Bay Isles Road Suspicious Circumstance: A caller reported to police that three men had entered a public recreation facility, and that they did not belong there. Officers arrived and discovered the men were hired cleaners working at the facility.

FEB. 18

EARLY BIRD 9:15 p.m. — 6800 block of GMD Suspicious Person: A caller reported that a man was walking on the beach when public access should be closed. An officer informed the man that the beach was not in fact closed for at least another hour, and the caller said he was satisfied with that information.

FEB. 19

THE PLACE TO BE 4:46 p.m. — 1600 block of GMD Trespassing: Police responded to reports of several juveniles jumping the fence of an abandoned property, and concerns about the word “help” written on one of the windows.

Upon arrival, officers found a smashed window in a high-rise building and wooden board pried from a restaurant entrance. There were no juveniles located on the property, and police noted the gate locks had been changed so they no longer have frequent access to the site for inspection. Officers noted that it appeared the juveniles were returning to the property often.

FEB. 16

BODY OR BUOY? 1:05 p.m. — 3300 block of GMD Suspicious Circumstance: A woman called police to report a person had possibly drowned in the Gulf of Mexico. When officers arrived, they determined the apparent bobbing head the woman saw was actually a buoy attached to a crab trap.

The woman told police she was a tourist and was unfamiliar with buoys and their use for catching crustaceans.

NEW HOMES

COMING SOON TO PRESTIGIOUS NORTHWEST BRADENTON!

beCOMe a

VIP aNd be the FIrSt tO KNOw abOut

TheEstuaryVIP.com Or CALL 941.200.0639 TODAY! COMMuNIty updateS! vISIt:

Robinson’s Preserve

99th St. NW

17th Ave. NW

9th Ave. NW

The Estuary

NORTH

COMMUNITIES.COM SOuthweSt FlOrIda’S MOSt experIeNCed hOMe buIlder FOr Over 40 yearS

230116

COPS CORNER

16A

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

J U S T R E L E A S E D SPACIOUS TOWER RESIDENCES FROM

$1

.5 MILLION

You’re living in one of only 49 expansive, modern residences in Sarasota’s newest, most impressive downtown address. You glance out the window at your vibrant town with all its cultural offerings, trendy restaurants and boutiques, wondering what excitement today will bring. Then, you see the Bay, simply breathtaking. Add on-site dining on the first floor and a rooftop zero horizon pool – there’s nowhere else like it.

R I G H T I N T H E H E A R T O F S A R A S O TA ’ S F A M E D B O U L E V A R D O F T H E A R T S .

SALES STUDIO OPENING SOON. VISIT US ONLINE.

500 Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236

BLVDSarasota.com | 941.316.1499 Presented by Key Solutions Real Estate ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES,TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. NO FEDERAL AGENCY HAS JUDGED THE MERITS OR VALUE, IF ANY, OF THIS PROPERTY. ALL PRICES AND FEATURES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL 231948 DRAWINGS ARE CONCEPTUAL RENDERINGS AND DEVELOPER EXPRESSLY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MAKE MODIFICATIONS.

17A

18A

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

A glass elevator is one way to get from the first floor to the second or third floors.

Courtesy photos

The Venetian-inspired estate features a three-story main house.

Longboat real estate listing makes history The estate is set to hit the market in March.

ERIC GARWOOD MANAGING EDITOR

The numbers instantly indicate this real estate listing isn’t like many others.

Even on Longboat Key.

It has 19,300 square feet of living space.

Three stories.

It’s on 1.2 acres.

Ten-car garage below the living spaces.

Six bedrooms, six full bathrooms and two half-baths.

List price is $26.5 million, a record listing price for Manatee, Sarasota and Charlotte counties.

Mike and Michele McKey’s

beachfront mansion on Longboat Key, within the gated borders of the Longboat Key Club in Regent Court, will officially be added to the MLS system for sale in early March. Final staging and photography is taking place now, but the home is available to show for qualified buyers or their agents.

Michael Moulton, the listing agent and a broker-associate with Michael Saunders & Co. on Long-

boat Key, said arriving at that price wasn’t particularly difficult — easier, perhaps, he said than pricing a $1 million home.

Land value, location and today’s costs of reproducing the property all play a role.

“I feel as high as this is, it’s still a very good value,’’ he said, adding colleagues have remarked they could envision a still-higher price, especially while considering a comparable property in a location such as Naples.

“This is the Port Royal location of Sarasota,” he said, referring to the tony Southwestern Florida spot where $50 million estates are not uncommon.

The Serenissima estate — it means “most serene” in Italian — sits directly on 140 feet of beachfront, in a quiet portion of an already-quiet community.

On the first floor, potential buyers will find living quarters — kitchen, dining room, sun room, and a “grand salon.”

One flight up are a pair of mas-

ter suites, along with an office and sitting room. Staircases are formed with solid slabs of marble.

There’s also an elevator.

On the third floor are guest quarters with adjoining bathrooms and spaces suited for movie-watching, game-playing or reading.

Built in 2005, the Venetianstyle masterpiece soars over its beachfront surroundings, but is just across the street from the Longboat Key Club golf course.

Moulton said the owners planned and built the mansion to their specifications and are now interested in downsizing, or “right-sizing” as he called it.

The owners have been preparing Serenissima to show for months, Moulton said. Meanwhile, the time to sell appears good, as Moulton explained that well-heeled people from Europe and elsewhere are arriving in the area all the time.

“Sarasota is on the map,’’ he said.

MONEY MARKET ACCOUNT

1.25%

APY

1

$2,500 minimum deposit, up to $250,000 per customer with

FREE CHECKING TO FIT YOUR NEEDS Totally Free Personal Checking2 • No minimum balance • No monthly maintenance fee • No per-check charge • Unlimited check writing • FREE Online Banking

Totally Free Business Checking2

• No minimum balance • No monthly maintenance fee • Cash deposits up to $1,000 a day 3 • 1,000 FREE monthly transaction items • FREE Online Cash Management Basic Services

Get a FREE Gift with each new checking account!

4

Longboat Key Branch

5390 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Suite 101 Longboat Key, FL 34228 941-554-5556

LionBank.com Part speedster, and prankster, he’s a Labrador retriever that combines unstoppable energy with I’m ready when you are enthusiasm. But in just two years he’ll become freedom, confidence and independence for someone who could really use it.

227642

Help us launch toward his best destiny: to become a Southeastern Guide Dog.

229727

1 $2,500 minimum is required for opening the Money Market account. Annual Percentage Yield of 1.25% is guaranteed for 6 months from account opening date. The Money Market accounts must be opened with new money or monies not currently held at Fidelity Bank. After 6 months, the Money Market Annual Percentage Yields apply.

They are today: the APY is 0.15% for balances up to $24,999.99. For balances from $25,000 to $49,999.99, the APY is 0.20%. For balances from $50,000 to $99,999.99, the APY is 0.25%. For balances of $100,000 to $249,999.99 the APY is 0.25%. For balances $250,000 and above, the APY is 0.30%. APYs are accurate as of 12/5/16. Rates are subject to change at anytime. A monthly maintenance fee of $10 applies if the balance falls below the minimum daily balance requirement of $2,500 for a Business Money Market account. A monthly maintenance fee of $6 applies if the balance falls below the minimum daily balance requirement of $1,000 for a Personal Money Market account. Six withdrawals per statement period are permitted. There is an excessive withdrawal fee of $10 for each additional withdrawal of any type. Fees could reduce the earnings on the account.

No public funds. This offer is for a limited time only. 2 $50 minimum opening deposit. Fees subject to change. Other fees such as NSF, overdraft fees, etc. may apply. Refer to our current Schedule of Fees. 3 Fee for transaction items which include checks paid or deposited, other debits and credits and deposit tickets over 1,000 is $0.125 per item. 4 Free gift provided at the time of account opening.

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

19A

ONLY HEARING DEVICE TO BE WORN 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK APPROVED BY THE FDA

An alternative to traditional hearing aids.

Introducing the new

We insert it...

You forget it.

• No Batteries • Sleep with it • Exercise with it

PRE

R IDE

ER PROV I M

20 17

SPECIAL EVENT FREE 30-Day Clinical Trial Appointments are limited, call to participate

Feb. 27 - March 3 230518

SEE INSIDE FOR DETAILS

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

As seen on:

FREE 30-Day Clinical Trial NO MORE HEARING AIDS

93%

of Lyric users would recommend Lyric to a friend or loved one

Inserted in Minutes No Surgery!

No Pain!

No Medication!

The World’s only 100% Invisible Hearing Device

• • • •

100% invisible Clear, natural sound No daily hassles No batteries to change

Lyric is the world’s only 100% invisible, extended-wear hearing device you can wear 24/7 for months at a time.

Call today for details about your

30-Day FREE trial

ER PROV MI

during this event.

R IDE

PRE

20 17

and most HMOs

855-HEAR-RITE (855-432-7748) CALL FOR A LOCATION NEAR YOU Annual subscription begins the first day of trial. Based on results from two surveys totaling 109 patients who had worn Lyric for at least 30-Days. Individual replacement needs may vary.

Duration of device battery life varies by patient and is subject to individual ear conditions. Lyric is not appropriate for all patients. See a Lyric Provider to determine if Lyric is right for you.

230534

20A

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

21A

5-DAY SPECIAL EVENT Monday, Feb. 27th through Friday, March 3rd

Call Today for a FREE Evaluation & Trial of the New

Dr. John McElmurry

No Cost. No Obligation.

Dr. Dan Troast

DOCTORS OF AUDIOLOGY

Exclusively offered at your leader in Hearing Care Technology, Florida Medical Hearing Centers

We Provide These FREE Services

Real Ear Measurements allow the clinician to measure and record the patient’s hearing aids’ performance while they are actually being worn.

FREE

It is important to have your hearing checked at least one time a year.

Our Video otoscope can detect if ear wax may be the reason you are experiencing hearing difficulty.

FREE

FREE

HEARING EXAM & CONSULTATION NO-OBLIGATION

HEARING AID CHECK UP

VIDEO EAR SCAN MAKE SURE IT’S NOT EAR WAX

LIMITED TIME SPECIALS Introducing the by WAS

$

$

895

WAS

NOW

295

$

Virtually Invisible

$

995

NOW

595

Lite

Ytango Lite - OTE with microphone and receiver in the canal - where Lite they should be

Lite

Lite Lite

Lite Lite Lite Lite Lite Lite LiteLite LiteLite Qleaf Lite - World’s smallest Lite instant fit CIC Lite Lite LiteLite

Lite

Lite

Florida Medical Lite Lite Lite Hearing Centers SARASOTA NORTH

2807 University PKWY, Sarasota, FL 34243 941-822-8919

Dealer SARASOTA SOUTH

6529 Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231 941-925-0022

Our Professional staff of Doctors of Audiology, Board Certified Hearing Aid Specialists and Audioprothologists

VENICE BEACH

OVER 44

ONS LOICN AFLTOI RIDA

4250 S Tamiami Trail, Venice, FL 34293 941-496-7600

APPOINTMENTS ARE LIMITED WWW.FLORIDAMEDICALHEARING.COM

230537

Factory Authorized

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

You Choose INSERTABLE or RECHARGABLE NO MORE BATTERIES An alternative to traditional hearing aids.

Introducing Audéo B-R The first and only lithium-ion rechargeable hearing aid.

Introducing the new

We insert it...

You forget it.

The quickest charging, longest lasting rechargeable hearing aid ever.

• No Batteries • Sleep with it • Exercise with it

• 24 hours - full day use • Quickest charging and no battery deterioration over time • Smart charging options ideal for people on the go • Easy handling, no more hassles with disposable batteries

NEWEST LYRIC TECHNOLOGY! NOW AVAILABLE!

NEW rechargeable hearing aid!

24 hours of hearing with one simple charge.

R IDE

ER PROV MI

PRE

20 17

Lite

Lite

Lite

Florida Medical Hearing Centers Factory Authorized SARASOTA NORTH

Our Professional staff of Doctors of Audiology, Board Certified Hearing Aid Specialists and Audioprothologists

Dealer

2807 University PKWY, Sarasota, FL 34243 941-822-8919

SARASOTA SOUTH

6529 Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231 941-925-0022

VENICE BEACH

OVER 44

ONS LOICN AFLTOI RIDA

4250 S Tamiami Trail, Venice, FL 34293 941-496-7600

WWW.FLORIDAMEDICALHEARING.COM

230541

22A

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

She was born in Brooklyn and raised in Scarsdale, N.Y. She studied silversmithing and jewelry at The School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston for four years.

For a few years she divided her time between making and selling jewelry in Vineyard Haven, Mass., and working her booth on 47th Street in New York City’s diamond district during the off season.

She is best known as the founder of CB Stark Jewelers, which celebrated its 50th anniversary last year. In 1969, she moved to Martha’s Vineyard full time. With the help of her staff and longtime partner, Margery Meltzer, her jewelry store became famous for its Martha’s Vineyard jewelry, which has more than 500 original designs and won Martha’s Vineyard Magazine’s Best Jeweler award for 21 consecutive years.

She was an avid sea glass collector and loved walking on the beach. She played bridge and canasta and loved watching birds.

Cheryl and Margery helped build their home in the West Tisbury woods where they lived together for almost 45 years. They spent their winters on Longboat Key where they resided in Sleepy Lagoon for almost 25 years.

Cheryl supported several organizations on Martha’s Vineyard including Martha’s Vineyard Cancer Support Group, Hospice of Martha’s Vineyard, Martha’s Vineyard Hospital and Vineyard House.

She is survived by her partner, Margery; sister Renee Stark; godson Joshua Kochin; many nieces and nephews; and her devoted CB Stark Jewelers staff.

Memorial donations can be made to Martha’s Vineyard Hospital Infusion Services, P.O. Box 1477, Oak Bluffs, Mass., 02557.

GLORIA HANRAHAN Gloria Hanrahan, 82, of Sarasota, died Feb. 10.

She was born and raised in Brooklyn where she graduated from Catherine McAuley High School and Packer College.

While growing up, her favorite moments were spending time with her grandmother after school, going to Coney Island and the beach with friends and vacationing with her family in the Poconos.

She had a career with Kennecott Copper Corp. in Manhattan and worked in real estate in the 1980s while raising her four children with her husband, James.

The couple spent their 58 years of marriage living in London, New York and New Jersey and retired to Longboat Key in 1989.

Gloria enjoyed traveling, collecting antiques and playing bridge.

She was preceded in death by James.

She is survived by her daughters Maureen Collins and Karen Sirkin; son Matthew Hanrahan; their spouses; six grandchildren; and her brother, William Salmon.

Memorial donations can be made to the American Diabetes Association at donations.diabetes.org

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

23A

City, Siesta remain at odds on Big Pass

OBITUARIES

CHERYL STARK

Cheryl Stark, 70, died Jan. 2.

|

A city insurance fund isn’t enough to persuade Siesta Key residents to support the proposed dredging of Big Pass.

The city is making overtures to Siesta residents, who say the dredging project could negatively impact the shoreline of the barrier island. Big Pass has never been dredged.

The City Commission on Tuesday was expected to consider setting up a $2.5 million insurance fund to mitigate any effects the project may have on Siesta. The resolution would commit the use of city tourist development tax money for the insurance fund.

“That should provide the assurances to Siesta Key — that we’ll have an assurance that nothing adverse would happen,” Barwin said.

SKA leaders, meanwhile, are trying to convince county officials they have the authority to intervene in the proposed dredging. On Feb. 7, Luckner told the County Commission that SKA believes a portion of the dredge area is in county jurisdiction.

The group said the county comprehensive plan prevents the state from approving the dredge without county consent.

Luckner expressed optimism that county officials would be more willing to intervene following that meeting. The county’s stance on the project has not changed since declining to challenge the FDEP decision last month, a spokesman said.

Luckner pointed out that, absent any challenge from Siesta residents, the city and Army Corps would still be waiting on federal funding. Still, city officials want to avoid prolonging any portion of the project — although Barwin is skeptical the two sides can come to an understanding.

“So far, we haven’t been able to break through and have conversations,” Barwin said. “At this point, that may have to be resolved with the lawyers.”

DAVID CONWAY DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR

As the city and Siesta Key residents clash over a proposal to renourish Lido Key and dredge Big Pass, the two sides can’t even agree on why they haven’t met with one another.

City Manager Tom Barwin and the Siesta Key Association have accused the other of declining to meet to talk about the proposed U.S. Army Corps of Engineers renourishment project. Barwin said he repeatedly reached out to Siesta groups to discuss the project.

“I’ve asked on several occasions to be invited to speak,” Barwin said. “I can tell you unequivocally, to the best of my knowledge, that has not happened.”

Siesta Key Association board member Catherine Luckner said Barwin did contact her to say he was willing to meet in December, but that he put the onus on the resident group to organize any get-together. When the group wrote that it looked forward to meeting with city officials in a January complaint regarding the FDEP decision, the city never responded, SKA Director Harold Ashby said.

“No reachout has been received by anybody,” Luckner said.

Barwin, for his part, said he did not receive a copy of the SKA complaint. The back-and-forth is a microcosm of the discord surrounding the Big Pass dredging proposal.

GAYLE PREISER Gayle Preiser, 79, of Longboat Key, died Feb. 16.

ROBERT SCHWARTZ Robert Schwartz died on Feb. 2, his birthday.

He was a longtime resident of Longboat Key, East Hampton, N.Y., and New York City. After a successful career in business, he retired and enjoyed time with his family. He loved to travel, cook and collect art.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara; children John and Linda; four grandchildren; one greatgranddaughter.

227282

All Angels by the Sea The Episcopal Church on Longboat Key

563 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key

Website: www.AllAngelsLBK.org

An InterfAIth CommunIty ChurCh founded In 1956

CATHOLIC CHURCH Welcomes You to Mass

The Rev. Bill Friederich Senior Minister

ASH WEDNESDAY March 1st

6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive • Longboat Key, Florida 34228 Telephone: 941-383-6491 • web: www.longboatislandchapel.org

The Lord’s Warehouse

THRIFT SHOP

9:00 & 11:30 AM and 5:30 PM

open Mon., Wed. and Sat. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

MASS SCHEDULE Saturday: 4:30 PM Sunday: 8:00, 9:30 & 11:30 AM During Lent: M-S 9:00 AM Stations of the Cross: Friday, outside, weather permitting 5:00 PM Confessions before and after daily masses

Temple Beth Israel

A Center of Jewish Life and Learning in the Sarasota Area Share Shabbat Friday evenings, 8:00 p.m.

Services begin at 5:30 p.m. on the last Friday of the month.

Saturday mornings, 10:00 a.m.

Join Us!

567 Bay Isles Road • Longboat Key, FL

229917

941.383.3428 | www.tbi-lbk.org

The Rev. David L. Danner, D. Min., Rector

St. Mary, Star of the Sea,

Sunday 10 a.m.

Worship Service

229920

229901

Visitors Welcome

Sunday Service:

8:00 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.

4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key, FL 34228 383-1255 • stmarylbk.com Msgr. Gerard Finegan, Pastor

229864

941-383-8161

All are welcome. Please join us in worship!

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

LONGBOAT KEY

6855 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE

YOUR DREAM BEACH HOME AWAITS! This BRAND-NEW, FOUR-BEDROOM PLUS DEN home constructed by luxury home builder Mason Martin Builders is sited directly on the pristine shores of the Gulf of Mexico. Walk from the pool or jacuzzi to the private pathway that leads to the beach. This estate welcomes you with a gated entry and lush, professional landscaping by Rightway Designs.

More than 4,400 SF of stunning interior features custom finishes, modern appliances, Smart Home accessories and a chic coastal design which is fully furnished and ready to occupy. Includes three-car garage.

JUST COMPLETED NEW BEACHFRONT CONSTRUCTION! $4,595,000 4BR plus Den, 5½BA www.6855GulfofMexicoDrive.com

201 Gulf of Mexico Drive Suite 1, Longboat Key, Florida 34228 office: (941) 387-1840 cell: (941) 586-6668 fax: (941) 827-9444 website: longboatrealestate.com e-mail: roger@pettingell.com Owned and operated by NRT, LLC

227409

24A

FEBRUARY 23, 2017

Classifieds 21B Games 20B Real Estate 9B Weather 20B

YOUR NEIGHBORS Longboat Library: Chapter 60 In 1957, a group of women opened a library with 1,200 books. Today, the library has a new location and 6,000 books.

KATIE JOHNS STAFF WRITER

T

229860

he Longboat Library isn’t one where people are told to be quiet.

That isn’t the atmosphere, library Co-President Mary Baker said. The library is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, and though it is small, it has become a sort of gathering place for bibliophiles.

In 1956, a group of women who regularly exchanged books decided it was time the Key had a library. One of the women had a husband in real estate, and in 1957 he found them a site at a local storefront. They started the library with a collection of 1,200 books.

Today, the library, which moved to its Bay Isles Road location in 1972, has 6,000 books available for checkout and, at any given time, 1,200 books available for purchase. The library is run by 55 volunteers who manage all the necessary functions — ordering books, keeping records, offering assistance on computers and maintaining the building.

“It’s quite a thing because you know you just don’t retire to a place like this to start working,” said Carol McMahon, who has been a library member and volunteer since 1999. “You want to relax, play golf, do whatever, but that kind of pales after a while.”

The town built the current building 45 years ago, and the library leases the property for $10 a year. The library is an independent nonprofit organization and is not connected to the county library system.

Expenses are covered by book

sales, memberships and donations.

And, though the library has come a long way since its beginning, a lot of the work is done in ways reminiscent of its early days. The library isn’t computerized and sticks with a card catalog and the Dewey Decimal System.

Publicity Chairwoman Carolyn Mangel said the library has come into the computer age with the creation of its website.

The library is something that harkens to the past, McMahon said. It’s a small space and offers an antiquey appeal to patrons.

It offers something Longboat wouldn’t have otherwise — access to books. There is no public library or bookstore on the Key. “I feel like we’re fulfilling a need that a lot of people appreciate, and they find that they don’t have to drive off the Key to find a good book to read,” Baker said.

Not only is it a one-stop book shop, it brings people together.

“I love libraries, and I love it here. I’ve just met such an amazing group of people,” Baker said.

“I think that’s what really keeps me coming back. I love the people who work here. They’re probably a group of people I wouldn’t have met any other way, so that’s really been the most fun for me. Plus, I love reading. That’s almost secondary to the people.”

The volunteers describe the book selection as “recreational reading” because that’s what people want when they’re on vacation, Baker said. However, they do have some reference books discussing gardening, sea life and art.

Each month, the library acquires about 25 new titles. To

choose which 25 books will be added, Amy Roth, a retired school librarian in charge of ordering, reads the Library Journal and Publishers’ Weekly. She orders mostly fiction: mysteries, thrillers, historical pieces and literary works.

“It’s very difficult to select nonfiction books because the readership is so limited for those books,” Roth said. “So I try to find books that will appeal to more than just a few people, and that’s hard.”

But it’s not all easy reading for the library. It does have its challenges, from volunteers and membership to maintenance.

“I just love it here, and as the president, I just have so many great people that I work with, and I can’t say enough about the volunteers who give up so much time and energy to this little establishment,” Baker said. “It’s a pleasure to be here.”

No matter the challenges, the 55 volunteers work to keep the little library going. Even if their taste in books differs, there is a common thread — a love for reading.

“That’s not written into the bylaws,” Baker said. “But on the other hand, why would you work at a library if you didn’t like to read?”

Photos by Katie Johns

Volunteer Joan Rotenberg, Co-President Mary Baker and Publicity Chairwoman Carolyn Mangel are just three of the 55 volunteers who keep the library running.

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

Audrey Alford with Julie and Kevin Bales, incoming St. Armands Residents Association president

Outgoing St. Armands Residents Association President Hugh Fiore and Anne Fiore

Mike Adkinson, Sarasota Deputy City Manager Marlon Brown and Mari Lynn Cheatham

St. Armands residents catch up

T

he foyer of the Sarasota Yacht Club was filled with chatter and clinking glasses on Feb. 7 as St. Armands residents caught up with each other.

About 120 guests attended the annual St. Armands Circle Residents Association dinner and meeting. Before dinner, the residents enjoyed a cocktail hour.

Before dinner, association President Hugh Fiore gave a presentation. Then, students and staff members of the Ringling College of Art and Design discussed computer animation and gave an update on the school.

— KATIE JOHNS

Photos Katie Johns

Ringling College of Art and Design students Philip Gleichauf and Robson Tan, computer animation faculty member Karen Sullivan and Special Assistant to the President Jamie Coffey

Redefining Service for

Luxury Real Estate

Are you looking for the best value in your real estate transaction?

I’m Jeff Rhinelander and here’s why you will want to make sure I’m your representative buying or selling your Sarasota or Longboat Key condo or home. I bring you 10 years of experience in the negotiation of high-stakes contracts on behalf of one of the largest health care companies in North America. My professional experience has taught me the importance of building relationships and the value of hard work, honesty and integrity. You can rest assured that with me as your Sarasota real estate agent, you will receive the best price on the home of your dreams along some of the most desirable coastline in the world.

For me, being a real estate agent isn’t just about the transaction. It’s about developing relationships. It’s not just about property. It’s about families and building life-long memories. Whether you’re a seasoned investor looking for property, a first time home buyer or a professional seeking a vacation property with a private deck, I can help you find the best property for the right price.

Contact me today to find the perfect real estate solution for you.

Jeff Rhinelander • REALTOR ® • Ocean Real Estate For more information call 941.685.3590 or email Jeff@JeffRhinelander.com Visit JeffRhinelander.com today.

400 Madison dRiVE, suitE 220 | st aRMands CiRClE | saRasota, FloRida 227441

2B

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

3B

Ian Addy PA, MBA | Gail Wittig Broker-Associate

Luxury Service | Strategic Marketing | Benchmark Results CALL THE #1 LONGBOAT KEY REAL ESTATE TEAM AT 941 - 387- 0100 SUNDAY OPEN HOUSE 1-4PM - 560 CHIPPING LANE

Country Club Shores

Located in the highly desirable south key neighborhood of Country Club Shores, this 5 bed, 4 bath split floor plan home offers owners 100’ of water frontage just 3 lots from Sarasota Bay. Volume ceilings, custom crown molding, sauna, private terraces, dock with lift, and an expansive pool deck all make this home spectacular!

1,849,000

$

Longboat Key Towers #201S 3 bed/3 bath offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico with deep crown moldings, walls of windows, custom built-ins and a split floor plan.

Emerald Pointe North

Bay Isles 3 bedroom/3 bath residence in Emerald Pointe offers the feel of a single family home with the maintenance free lifestyle of a condo. Owners will enjoy the serene courtyard with the soothing sounds of the fountain. Outdoor views are appreciated from every room of the house including sunsets and golfers over

859,000

$

the Harbourside Golf Course.

L’Ambiance #D706

Water Club #506

Longboat Key Towers #202S

3 bed/3 bath 7th floor Gulf to Bay floor plan with stunning Sarasota Bay, city skyline and Gulf of Mexico views from most rooms.

3 bed/3 bath completely renovated Cambridge floor plan with the finest finishes and direct Gulf of Mexico views with partial by views.

2 bed/2 bath expertly updated residence with opened kitchen, expanded master bath, plantation shutters and direct beach views.

2,199,000

$

1,475,000

$

859,000

$

1,595,000

$

Grand Bay #456

The Pierre #306

Inn on the Beach

Sand Cay Beach Resort

3 bed/3 bath southeast facing corner residence with views of Sarasota Bay, the Gulf of Mexico, Longboat Moorings and the Sarasota city skyline.

3 bed/3 bath customized split floor plan for maximum exposure to the Gulf views through floor to ceiling sliders. Parking space under building.

1 bed and 2 bed options directly on the beach with extremely healthy income in a AAA four-diamond resort with 1st class amenities.

2 bed/2 bath furnished condos in an intimate community of 60 units directly on the Gulf of Mexico. Healthy income and flexible owner time.

1,695,000

$

1,185,000

$

314,000 - $1,350,000

$

515,000- $699,000

$

229904

941-387-0100 | LongboatLife.com 440 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228 | ianaddy@michaelsaunders.com | gailwittig@michaelsaunders.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

FRIDAY, FEB. 24

LONGBOAT LIBRARY 60TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Takes place from 4 to 6 p.m. at the library, 555 Bay Isles Road.

Join the members and volunteers in celebrating the library’s 60th anniversary. Enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and wine.

Guests for the evening include Pat and Bob Gussin of Oceanview Publishing Co.

SATURDAY, FEB. 25

‘THE TEETH BENEATH’ EXHIBIT OPENING Opens to the public at 10 a.m. at Mote Aquarium’s Ann and Alfred E. Goldstein Marine Mammal Research and Rehabilitation Center, 1703 Ken Thompson Parkway, just down the street from the aquarium admissions office. The exhibit will allow guests to get up close and personal with American alligators and invasive spectacled caimans found in Florida waters and wetlands.

SUNDAY, FEB. 26

‘THE KIRKIN’ O’ THE TARTANS’ Takes place at the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services at Christ Church of Longboat Key, Presbyterian, 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

The Scottish service features bagpipes, Tartan banners, processions and drums. Call 383-8833.

SUNDAY, FEB. 26

THIS WONDERFUL LIFE! Takes place from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at the Longboat Key Education Center 5370 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

Soloist Amy Jo Connours and Lee Dougherty Ross celebrate life with songs including “Climb Every Mountain,” “A Wonderful Day Like Today” and “Celebration.” Cost is $20 for members and $25 for nonmembers.

941-954-9000

Candy Swick & Company

Real Estate Savvy

File photo

LOOKING AHEAD

Annette Hogan and Deirdre Schueppert joined Cynthia and Stan Slater in finding bargains at last year’s rummage sale.

MARCH 3 AND 4

ST. MARY ROYAL RUMMAGE SALE Takes place from noon to 4 p.m. on March 3 and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on March 4, at St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church, 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive. From jewelry and clothing to furniture and collectibles, the annual rummage sale has something for everyone. The sale kicks off Friday with an early bird and continues Saturday. Cost is $5 to attend the early bird sale on March 3.

Call 383-1255.

ahead to the economic and political impact in 2017, lessons learned in 2016 and top 10 investment ideas for 2017. RSVP to maryannbrady@aginginparadise. org or call 383-6493.

SATURDAY, MARCH 4

LONGBOAT KEY GARDEN CLUB HOME TOUR Takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at various locations. Take a peek at four local homes while helping the Longboat Key Garden Club raise money for its grant and scholarship funds. Tickets are on sale now at Exit Art, 5380 Gulf of Mexico Drive and 201 Gulf of Mexico Drive; Design 2000, 6840 Gulf of Mexico Drive; Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce, 5390 Gulf of Mexico Drive; J. McLaughlin, 515 Bay Isles Parkway; each home on the day of the tour. Tickets are $25.

Call 383-4818 or 383-8030.

TUESDAY, FEB. 28

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN A CHANGING WORLD — YEAR AHEAD 2017 Takes place from 10 a.m. to noon at Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Join advisers for a discussion on topics such as looking

DOWNTOWN-DIRECT BAY VIEW! 3Br/3Ba/Media Rm/2CG w/pvt elevator, detailed & 9FT ceil, crown molding, marble, hardwood, built-ins, gas fp, granite, imported cabinets, bidet in MBa, state-ofthe-art syst, 2 balconies in secure bldg w/amenities!

MLS#A4164206 $1,750,000

LONGBOAT KEY PENTHOUSE! Bay & Golf views 2Br/2Ba/2CG w/southern exposure, wrap-around balcony, great rm plan, tile, crown moldings, volume ceil , Kitch w/Sub Zero & Corian, walkins w/built-ins, gated comm w/resort amenities, w/deeded beach access near golf & marina!

MLS#A4160993 $635,000

WEST OF TRAIL! 3Br/Den/3Ba/2CG, custom ceil , crown moldings, wood cabinets, aquarium glass, granite, French doors, tile, open kitch w/SS appls, bkfst nook, fam rm, pvt yard w/screened lanai, saltwater pool, & brick pavers in great location!

MLS#A4177056 $1,000,000

DOWNTOWN FURNISHED W/BAY VIEW! Extended 2Br/2Ba on 7th flr, main living bay views and balcony w/city vista, hurricane shutters, hardwood flrs, kitch w/upgrades; Corian & bkfst bar, in secure bldg w/fitness, assigned pkg, pool & concierge across from Bay Front park MLS#A4170262 $600,000

TOTAL REMODEL - GATED COMM.!

5Br/3Ba/3CG Move-in ready, never lived in since remodel, open plan, wood tile, quartz & granite, subway tile, furn quality cabinets, tray ceil , built-ins, updated kitch & all baths, new roof, new a/c, new pool, spa & summer kitch in UPark MLS#A4177121 $750,000

LONGBOAT KEY CLUB!, 2Br/2Ba/1CP w/ gulf & golf course to bay views, 4th flr w/ east & west balconies, dbl door entry + serv entrance, marble, tile, master w/WIC in secure bldg w/amenities; onsite mgr, fitness, gulf front pool & spa w/LBK club membership options!

MLS#A4175671 $700,000

APPROX. 20-ACRES 3 MILES E OF I75! 2 parcels sold together, direct access from Fruitville Rd, OUE zoning; residential & agriculture, bring horses & cattle, establish a nursery, stocked retention pond for irrigation, utilities on site; artesian well, electric, septic, telephone!

MLS#A4160117 $1,500,000

BAY PLAZA VIEWS! 3Br/3Ba/2CG/3 balconies, over 3300SF w/sweeping bay views, open & flexible plan, hardwood flrs, ceramic tile, crown moldings, built-ins, kitch w/all appls , guest qtrs w/kitchenette & its own entry + pvt laundry in full service downtown building w/amenities!

MLS#A4146244 $1,200,000

MEMOIR WRITING CLASS Takes place at 10 a.m. at All Angels by the Sea Episcopal Church, 563 Bay Isles Road. David Rice will lead the class that will meet the first and third Mondays of the month. Call 383-8161.

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND SATURDAYS

LORD’S WAREHOUSE Hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the south end of the Longboat Island Chapel campus behind the parking lot, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

Gently used women’s and men’s clothing, accessories and home goods will be sold. Call 941-3734738.

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND FRIDAYS

PUMPING THE PRIME Takes place at 10 a.m. at Bayfront Park Recreation Center, 4052 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Mirabai Holland teaches this course on how to strengthen muscles and bones, burn calories and boost metabolism and manage weight and develop muscle mass. Participants should be able to get on the floor and get up readily.

Please bring a towel. Cost is $10 for member and $15 for nonmembers. Call 201-956-1466.

WEDNESDAYS

WONDERFUL WEDNESDAYS BOOK SALES Take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Longboat Library, 555 Bay Isles Road. Gently used books will be discounted by 50%.

Paperbacks will be 25 cents, and hardback books will be 50 cents to $2.50. Call 383-2011.

Since 1969 5330 Ashton Ct., Sarasota

CS

State Certified General Contractor

Candy Swick & Company

• Repair • Replace • Condos • Homes

Licensed Real Estate Broker

www.candyswick.com 2063 Main Street, Sarasota FL 34237

MONDAYS

DUPLICATE BRIDGE Takes place from 1 to 4 p.m.

Participate in American Contract Bridge League open pairs duplicate bridge games. Cost is $11 per game. Call Susan Brill at 216-9600 for more information.

&C

SIESTA KEY - DOCK & LIFT! Mid Century Modern 5Br/3Ba/2CG on ½ acre, ½ mile to beach, 145FT canal frontage, open concept, high beamed ceil , 2 masters, skylights, ceramic tiled flrs, marble, granite, updated kitch , infinity edge pool, 900+/- gallon pond, one bridge to bay!

MLS#A4172653 $1,850,000

RECURRING EVENTS

TUESDAYS, THURSDAYS AND SATURDAYS

www.wilson-window.com 227149

YOUR CALENDAR

4B

921-1113 227045

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

5B

SARASOTA LUXURY

LIFESTYLES PRICE REDUCTION!

Photos by Katie Johns

Sharon Caldwell and Sherri Kaufman

LIDO BEACH PENTHOUSE

S

eaplace residents took a step back in time Feb. 15 as they enjoyed a night of Motown classics.

Local performer Kim Jenkins sang “strictly ’60s music” for the crowd, including “Summer Wind,” “Stand by Me” and “My Girl.” Those gathered enjoyed cocktails before dinner and the performance.

Ford Thunderbird models made of paper and candy sat in the center of each table, which were named for various Motown artists including The Jackson 5, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye.

SPECTACULAR PANORAMIC VIEWS . . . . . . . $689,000 Live on top of the world in this beautiful, remodeled, penthouse condominium on Lido Beach.

941.356.8428 peterglaughlin.com Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

232124

Seaplace enjoys night of Motown music

Kim Jenkins performs various hits from Motown for the Seaplace crowd.

BEACH LOT ON LONGBOAT KEY. . . . . . . . . . $1,224,000 Best buy on the lowest-priced Gulf-side lot on the key.

Plans for 5,000 sq. ft. luxury home available. Call now!

Dream Home discover your

— KATIE JOHNS Charlene and Robert Pelland

SARASOTA HARBOR 767 John Ringling Blvd., #23 $299,000 1BR/1BA

SARASOTA HARBOR 763 John Ringling Blvd., #25 $310,000 2BR/1BA

COUNTRY CLUB SHORES 581 Wedge Lane | 3BR/3.5BA

Amy Groneman, Sue Trakas, Eileen Goulder and Mary Conner

$1,395,000

My Listings Sell. They Don’t Expire.

Tama Traberman, CRS, CSP, MIRM, e-PRO, SFR If you want to list your home for sale, you can call any real estate agent.

FAIRWAY BAY 1930 Harbourside Drive #145 2BR/2BA $512,000

Call me if you want to sell it!

Babette Paige, Realtor®

Full-Time Professional Realtor, Lic.NJ-1992; Lic. FL 2000

Michael Saunders & Company Licensed Real Estate Broker

230735

941.225.3351

423 St. Armand’s Circle, Sarasota, FL 34236

941.587.1045 | babspaige@comcast.net

231933

In-Depth Knowledge of the Real Estate Market 330 John Ringling Blvd.

Sarasota, FL 34236

PORTOBELLO 3235 Gulf of Mexico Drive #A105 2BR/BA $629,000

6B

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

Photos by Katie Johns

Event hosts and ACE Task Force members Bob Trisolini and Bob Nosal

Culture center task force presents plan to locals

James Jordan, Carolyn Wedekind, Carl Meyer and Ron Wedekind

Sheila Nemes with Roman and Margaret Lomnyckyj

T

Anne Morrison, Janet Foisie and Kathy Simonds

Maggie Hicks

Maggie Hicks Turning your dreams into an address!

Turning Your Dreams into an Address Beachplace

Recently Listed Properties

he Longboat Key Center for the Arts, Culture and Education is still in the beginning stages.

As ACE Task Force Chairman Warren Simonds explained, it’s a dream, and it’s one that piggybacks on John Ringling’s vision for the area.

ACE, what the proposed Longboat Key Center for the Arts, Culture and Education is being called, will be a hub for cultural and educational experiences including jewelry, woodworking, ceramics and graphics. It also hopes to bring more performances to Longboat Key. ACE Task Force members Bob Nosal and Bob Trisolini hosted an event Feb. 18 at Islands West for residents and locals to

learn more about the proposed center. Simonds explained construction on the property will begin once the group raises between $10 million and $12 million.

He also said the current Longboat Key Center for the Arts, which will close in May, is too far from the center of the Key to efficiently serve the community. The new property will be more centralized and can serve as a gathering place.

The town of Longboat Key and Ringling College of Art and Design have entered into an agreement outlining a proposed operating structure for the center.

— KATIE JOHNS

YOU’RE INVITED! Did we mention it’s FREE? Confused About Hearing Aids?

We’ll expose the truth about hearing aids that most companies DON’T WANT YOU TO KNOW! FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE

Let’s do Lunch!

Thursday, March 2nd - or Thursday, March 16th

240 Sands Point Road #4106 Junior Suite | Fully Equipped

NEW LISTING Best bay views in Beachplace! There are views of Sarasota Bay, the This three bedroom residence has been completely updated with neutral colored tile in the living areas, a new kitchen and covered parking.

$ Seaplace 465,000 Longboat Harbour | $189,000 lush| landscaping of Beachplace. Covered parking included.

1945 Gulf of Mexico Drive #216 4400 Exeter Drive #204 Beds: 3 | Baths: 2 | Sq. Ft.: 1532 sq. ft.

Beds: 1 | Bath: 1 | Sq. Ft.: 664 sq. ft.

Gorgeous views of the grounds, swimming pool and Gulf of Mexico, from this corner residence in Bldg. 3. The southwestern exposure allows

Ready to building. Available furnished with covered parking for $610,000 Buy or Sell?

Seasonal Rental Beachplace | $8,400 /month Direct Beachfront | Available Seasonally Beds: 2 | Bath: 2 | Turnkey Furnished

Unable to attend our Lunch & Learn?

You’re in Luck. For a limited time only, we are offering the following: • FREE Hearing Screening • FREE Otoscopy - Check for Wax • FREE Demonstration of the Newest Hearing Aid Technology Schedule your appointment for the above and receive a free gift after your FREE consultation.*

1805 Siesta Dr. • Sarasota, FL 34239

MUST R.S.V.P. Limited Appointments (941) 225-2208 Provided by:

Winner of Best Place to Buy A Hearing Aid 6 Years in a Row! Venice • Sarasota • Englewood www.earresistiblehearing.com | Like us on

227395

Venic

MUST R.S.V.P. | Limited Seating | DEDICATED TO LUXURY REAL ESTATE Owned and operated by NRT, LLC

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

Casey Bean, HAS, BC-HIS Chad Fonder, HAS, Hearing Aid Wearer Carol Bourbeau, HAS Sue DeBauche, HAS, BC-HIS, 35 Years Experience

ondolie eG

ondolie eG

2015

un rS

Maggie Hicks Coldwell Banker Previews maggiehicks201@gmail.com 941-321-1759 Mobile

Family owned & Operated

un rS

Maggie has been a realtor for 20+ years and focuses on luxury residential real estate in South Florida.

FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE

BEST OF VENICE

BEST OF VENICE

F I R S T

F I R S T

(941) 225-2208

*Not Valid for current patients. No obligation to purchase. Hearing screening must be completed, limit one per household, offer expires 3/24/2017.

© 2017 Starkey. All Rights Reserved. 2/17 51458-17

232454

1125 Gulf of Mexico Drive #404 living2 area.

Beds:the 2 | Bath: | Sq. Ft.: 1400 sq. ft.

CAFE BACI

4001 S. Tamiami Trail • Sarasota, FL 34231

Venic

Largest two-bedroom Gulf-front unit at Beachplace, re-modeled from the studs out with raised ceilings and every easy-living amenity.

The Beachplace | $630,000 Resort at Longboat Key Club | $495,000

Begins at: 11:30 am

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

7B

• Weekly Maintenance • Equipment Installation and Repair • Resurfacing We Also Sell Pool Supplies!

www.lapenseeplumbing.com 778.5622 * 401 MANATEE AVENUE, HOLMES BEACH

229894

LIC.#CFC1426956 ~ CPC1458908 ~ CAC1818472

Photos by Katie Johns

Incoming Longboat Key Democratic Club President Ken Marsh, event speaker Cornelle Maxfield, president of the Democratic Black Caucus of Manatee and Sarasota Counties, and outgoing club President Murray Blueglass

Cornelle Maxfield speaks to Democrats

LONGBOAT KEY – Corner penthouse in desirable mid key location. Direct Bayfront with 2 bedroom/2 baths plus bonus room; Community has great amenities and is pet friendly ....................................................................................................................$399,000

T

LONGBOAT KEY – Gulf front home with 120 feet of beach frontage and 443 feet in depth.

Enjoy a magnificent beach and ultimate privacy in this 4 bedroom, 4.5 baths, family room, great room, heated gulf side pool and spa, wooden decks and screened porch across the entire home....................................................................................................................$3,500,000 WINDWARD BAY – 2/2 corner unit with a great view of the Bay. This residence is close to all the many amenities offered in this pet friendly community. ................................... $395,000 WINDWARD BAY – Penthouse with spectacular views across the Bay. Watch manatees and dolphins frolic in the marina. Enjoy deeded beach access and a multitude of community amenities.

Pets allowed. Enjoy beautiful tile and travertine floors in this 2/2 sunny residence..........$455,000 WINDWARD BAY – This bay front residence is for the young at heart. Two bedrooms, two baths, large lanai tastefully decorated and furnished as a seaside getaway. The community amenities include 2 pools, tennis, pickle ball, fitness room, kayak racks, boat docks, deeded beach access and an abundance of social activities. Two pets up to 25 lbs. ........... $399,900

Alan Bandler and Marvin Black

Blueglass is stepping down as president and Ken Marsh will take over.

Later, the club honored Blueglass with cupcakes and a song.

PROUD CONTRIBUTOR TO THE MSC FOUNDATION AND MEMBER OF THE MSC FOUNDATION ADVISORY COUNCIL

— KATIE JOHNS

We’re

941-302-4913 | jodenemoneuse@gmail.com

S LE IS Y BA

Licensed Real Estate Broker

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

EN OP

3BR/3BA RENOVATED HOME close to the beach PLUS SPACIOUS 1BR/1BA GUEST SUITE with separate entrance.

Saltwater screened pool, wood burning fireplace & new high impact windows. Great rental income! $899,000

Ambassador’s Circle

PM 1- 4 AY D UN ES US HO

E IC PR

DIRECT GULF FRONT condo at Islands West w/ water views. 2BD/2BA 1468 sq.ft, wrap-around terrace w/ views of the Gulf & Bay. Updates of kitchen & baths, impact sliding glass doors, and tile flooring. Amenities inc. beachfront grilling, social rm, fitness rm & covered parking. $749,000

STUNNING BAY VIEWS from this 3BR/2.5BA condo on the 4th floor at The Atrium. Hardwood floors throughout most living areas, updated kitchen & new master bath.

Large balcony overlooks Sarasota Bay. $819,000

R OU UB RB CL A H LLA VI

IMPRESSIVE ONE-STORY 3BR/3BA canal front home built on an elevated lot in the Sleepy Lagoon neighborhood.

Deep water canal, lift, outdoor shower, pool & Jacuzzi.

Close to deeded beach. $769,000

Michael Saunders & Company

D CE DU RE

W NE

RARELY AVAILABLE spacious 3BR/2.1BA maintenance free villa located behind the gates of Bay Isles Harbourside. Impressive views overlooking the sparkling lake and one acre golf course. $849,000

356-2659 • bobbiebanan@michaelsaunders.com

Linda Weber

We’re

JoDene Moneuse REALTOR

BOBBIE BANAN, REALTOR® 170233

he Longboat Key Democratic Club had a busy agenda for its Feb. 14 meeting.

Not only was the group addressed

by Cornelle Maxfield, president of the Democratic Black Caucus of Manatee and Sarasota Counties, the club also voted in its 2017 officers.

Before Maxfield spoke about Black History Month, outgoing President Murray Blueglass asked for people to decide on new officers. The votes were unanimous, and all officers were approved.

Blueglass honored Alan Bandler, a 12-year board member who will be stepping down, by giving him a copy of “Closing the Courthouse Door: How Your Constitutional Rights Became Unenforceable” by Erwin Chemerinsky.

DOCK 62’ X 20’ LBK CLUB MOORINGS Deep water, direct access to ICW & Bay w/no bridges. Located on C Pier the only pier with a built-in platform making easy boat access during high or low tide. Cable, water, electric, internet at dock and 24 hr security.

Priced for quick sale.

SPECTACULAR BAY VIEWS from this updated 2BR/2BA beach inspired get-away. Bring your boat and launch it right at your boat slip. $529,900

LBK CLUB GOLF COURSE CONDO - Panoramic views across the fairway of the White Egret Course this 2540 sq.ft. residence features an open flr plan, vaulted ceilings, 2 ½ BA, large kitchen, spacious master suite, 2 car garage. Beach Club membership included. $774,000

ING ND PE

$105,000 BAY ISLES, LONGBOAT KEY CLUB - Recently

updated, 3BD, 2870 sq. ft w/ open floor plan, volume ceilings & marble flooring. The southern exposure offers a caged pool w/ spacious lanai great for outdoor entertaining. Beach Club membership inc.

$849,000

Linda Weber Office 941.387.1863 Cell 941.504.2000

Nightly and weekly rentals available: 941-387-8344

www.WagnerRealty.com

5360 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Suite 101, in the Centre Shops, Longboat Key | 941.383.5577

Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate 201 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Longboat Key

lindaweber@longboatwaterfront.com | WWW.LONGBOATWATERFRONT.COM

227612

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

FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITY to own an affordable condo with beach to bay access. 2BR/1.5BA is ready to update to your taste. One of the few condos on the Key with a garage. Make this your home on the island. $275,000

229923

GORGEOUS VIEWS OF SARASOTA BAY 2BR/2BA condo in Longboat Harbour, turnkey furnished 3rd floor with elevator access and covered parking. Social community including private beach and pavilion with parking. $299,900

8B

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

LO C A L LY K N OW N . G LO B A L LY CO N N E C T E D.

L O N G B OAT K E Y 601 Putting Green Lane Mel & Jan Goldsmith 941-356-6673 A4176867 $3,500,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 529 Putter Lane Michael Moulton 941-928-3559 A4136340 $3,445,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 3060 Grand Bay Boulevard PH1102 Eileen (Dee Dee) Burke 941-266-8949 A4144965 $3,150,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 655 Longboat Club Road 17B Jenifer Schwell 941-780-0968 A4161520 $3,300,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 5362 Sandhamn Place Michael Moulton & Connie Lyke-Brown 941-928-3559 A4167782 $2,995,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 1281 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 906 Laurie M Mock 941-232-3665 A4159835 $1,629,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 2165 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 132 Anne Mitchell 941-725-0227 A4170493 $1,600,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 3421 Bayou Sound Stephen Strong 941-201-9662 A4171639 $1,599,900

L O N G B OAT K E Y 723 Jungle Queen Way Marcia Salkin, Pa 941-376-6121 A4163126 $1,395,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 585 Cutter Lane Armando Linde 941-400-9991 A4174152 $1,165,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 690 Lands End Drive Elizabeth Van Riper 941-993-6842 A4174232 $865,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 601 Longboat Club Road 202S Ian Addy Pa 941-961-8850 A4167414 $859,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 525 Yawl Lane Ryan Skrzypkowski 941-387-6630 A4169184 $850,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 565 Sanctuary Drive B206 Carol Cohen Pa 941-356-3829 A4159438 $824,900

L O N G B OAT K E Y 1905 Harbour Links Circle 3 Jonathan Fox 941-544-6649 A4167802 $699,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 3070 Grand Bay Boulevard 641 Emmy Lou Gilbert 941-807-1764 A4175811 $695,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 1920 Harbourside Drive 1004 Julie Klick 941-780-6001 A4165378 $549,900

L O N G B OAT K E Y 810 Bayport Way 810 Maruta Miluns 941-374-9702 A4175694 $499,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 615 Dream Island Road 308 Sylvia Zimmerman 941-350-5022 A4110859 $465,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 100 Sands Point Road 201 Sandi Layfield 941-914-2807 A4165105 $449,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 4500 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 206 Bobbi Banan 941-356-2659 A4177537 $417,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 4500 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 305 Bobbi Banan 941-356-2659 A4162445 $399,900

L O N G B OAT K E Y 2000 Harbourside Drive 1504 Tammy Mast 941-256-6543 A4168756 $375,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 225 Sands Point Road 6304 Thomas Cinquegrano 941-284-5049 A4177213 $374,900

L O N G B OAT K E Y 5260 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 401 Kathy Valente 941-685-6767 A4152740 $349,500

L O N G B OAT K E Y 4410 Exeter Drive 103 Malihe Karimi 941-376-5099 A4165674 $314,500

L O N G B OAT K E Y 624 Cedars Court 13 Tina Rudek, Pa 941-920-0303 A4162575 $237,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 5060 Gulf Of Mexico Drive Beverly St Hilaire 941-504-3303 A4145711 $8,200,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 55 Lighthouse Point Drive Kelly Quigley & Linda Dickinson 941-356-9954 A4170677 $5,500,000

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

OPEN HOUSES SUNDAYS 1–4 PM

michaelsaunders.com

L O N G B OAT K E Y 560 Chipping Lane Ian Addy Pa 941-961-8850 A4125400 $1,849,000

8 8 8 . 552 . 52 2 8

michaelsaunders.com L I C E N S E D R E A L E S TAT E B RO K E R

231797

L O N G B OAT K E Y 6633 Gulf Of Mexico Drive Deborah Beacham 941-376-2688 A3989550 $19,900,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 596 Outrigger Lane Maureen Horn 941-539-3384 A4158567 $4,500,000

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

FEB. 6 TO FEB. 10

ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR

A

home in Sleepy Lagoon Park tops all transactions in this week’s real estate. David and Sharon Stricker and John and Nancy Stricker, of Windermere, sold their home at 625 Norton St. to Steven and Heidi Guy, of Buckinghamshire, England, for $685,000. Built in 1977, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,830 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $540,000 in 2011.

FAIRWAY BAY II

Jane Daganhardt, Holly McConnaughey, Robert Daganhardt, Amy Whitlow and George Daganhardt sold their Units 334 and 335 condominium at 2016 Harbourside Drive to Betty Donnelly and Lane Donnelly, trustees, of Longboat Key, for $600,000. Built in 1984, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,462 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $675,000 in 2003.

KINGSTON ARMS

John and Joann Hunt sold their Unit 26-A condominium at 500 S. Washington Drive to Gary Miller, trustee, of Sara-

9B

REAL ESTATE

Sleepy Lagoon Park home sale tops real estate transactions

|

Courtesy photo

Built in 1977, 625 Norton St. has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,830 square feet of living area.

sota, for $398,000. Built in 1963, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,034 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $111,000 in 1997.

SUTTON PLACE

of Missouri City, Texas, for $228,000. Built in 1963, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 816 square feet of living area.

It previously sold for $91,000 in 1995.

James and Sandra Cristantiello, of Danbury, Conn., sold their Unit T-25 condominium at 577 Sutton Place to Shawn Spiezio, of Sevierville, Tenn., for $240,000. Built in 1972, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 1,008 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $85,000 in 1994.

LO C A L LY K N OW N . G LO B A L LY C O N N E C T E D.

Saint Cacchiotti & Marie Monsky

440 Gulf of Mexico Dr • Longboat Key • 941.387.2468 • 941.350.3245

Sarasota Harbour Apartments Sims Family Trust, Judith Sims, trustee, of Missouri City, Texas, sold the Unit 8 condominium at to Judith Sims,

For Saint and Marie, real estate is all about relationships.

The satisfaction that comes from seeing their clients’ reach their goals fuels the team’s determination to lead the way in the Sarasota-Manatee luxury real estate market.

TOP BUILDING PERMITS These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of Feb. 6-10, in order of dollar amounts.

L O N G B OAT K E Y

n

Sarasota residents for decades with deep roots in the community

n

Proven results in selling luxury property throughout the area

n

Best in Client Satisfaction award winners

n

Trusted for their experience and expertise

n

Locally and globally connected through a world-class network

n

Committed to giving back to the community in which they serve

Whether buying or selling in Sarasota and beyond, Saint and Marie are a team you can count on to deliver the right result.

ADDRESS 4900 GMD

PERMIT Interior

APPLICANT Andrew Puszkar

525 Norton Street

Bathroom

Laurel Phillips

$46,232

621 Ranger Lane

Pool equipment

James Chirgwin

$40,000

3410 Winding Oaks Drive

Glass doors

Robert Capone

$34,310

551 Broadway

Seawall

Arden Lerfald

$20,983

4241 GMD

Glass doors

Daniel Rife

$20,000

2509 GMD Glass doors Veranda Beach Club, Condo

$18,500

572 Hornblower Lane

Lift-davit

Alligator 42 LLC

$15,000

300 Firehouse Lane

Reroof

Martin Allen

$14,700

7149 Longboat Drive North

Reroof

Mauro Harto

$11,820

529 Bayview Drive

Lift-davit

Larry Harry

$9,483

5991 Emerald Harbor Drive Pool enclosure

Walter Behm

$4,180

4900 GMD

Windows

John Bankemper

$2,880

605 Jungle Queen Way

Windows

Joanna Donahue

$1,974

3710 GMD

Windows

Brian Patton

$1,814

612 Buttonwood Drive

Garage door

Jeanette Ray

$1,550

Sea Gate Club Condo Assoc. Inc

6430 Gulfside Road

Melissa Rodocker

Certificate of Occupancy

SaintCacchiotti@michaelsaunders.com MarieMonsky@michaelsaunders.com

L O N G B OAT K E Y 6540 Gulf of Mexico Drive A3997271 $1,749,000

S A R A S OTA 35 Watergate Drive 1403 A4154217 $2,649,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 741 Hideaway Bay Drive A4103504 $2,500,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 6580, 6604, and 6008 Gulf of Mexico Drive A4115171, A4115163 and A4104091 Starting at $750,000

$0 N/A

Source: Town of Longboat Key

231794

2425 GMD Fire sprinkler

SaintandMarie.com

AMOUNT $68,805

Licensed Real Estate Broker

10B

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

janet walter REALTOR®

941.232.2000 www.lbkproperty.com

221939

Longboat Key Resident & Realtor

Living and Working on Longboat Key for 40 Years

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

3174 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Longboat Key, FL 34228

Susan Loprete, Garden Club President Susan Phillips, Lyn Haycock, Patty Sileo, Kim Roberts and Palma Panza

Michael Saunders & Company Licensed Real Estate Broker

Garden Club loves LBK

941.724.7228

A

CathyMeldahl@michaelsaunders.com

s the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico, the Longboat Key Garden Club was just beginning its Valentine’s Day celebration.

For the first time, the club hosted an event in honor of St. Valentine. Club President Susan Phillips said they realized no one on Longboat was having a Valentine’s Day event, so they jumped at the chance to host “Loving Longboat Key.” The only requirement for attending was that one had to love Longboat, which was proven by those who signed a card for the town.

The group gathered at Bay Isles Beach Club and enjoyed champagne, chocolate and other refreshments before watching the sun set.

JUST LISTED 3320 Gulf Of Mexico Dr, Unit #304-C, Longboat Key, 34228, 2 beds, 2 baths, Completely redone Penthouse, partial bay views, boat slips with deeded beach access. $390,000

Private Stairs to Beach

Penthouse Unit

Photos by Katie Johns

Phyllis and Jack Black

— KATIE JOHNS

JUST LISTED

JUST REDUCED

2105 Gulf Of Mexico Dr #3104, Longboat Key, 34228, 2 beds, 2 baths, 1,463 Sq. Ft. $949,900

MY

1050 Longboat Club Rd #1004, Longboat Key, 34228, 2 beds, 2 baths, 1,409 Sq. Ft. $599,900

Aviva Experience!

Penthouse Unit

‘‘

JUST REDUCED 1701 Gulf of Mexico Dr #604, Longboat Key, 34228, 3 beds, 2 baths, 1,551 Sq. Ft. $699,900

1050 Longboat Club Rd #303, Longboat Key, 34228, 2 beds, 2 baths, 1,409 Sq. Ft. $425,000

Gulf Views for Miles

Pending

I’ve been an amateur comedienne most of my adult life. At Aviva I am surrounded by fun, witty people (and a built-in audience).

My family is happy that I am enjoying life and feel supported.

– Phyllis Davis, Kobernick Independent Living Resident

‘‘

The Aviva experience is about maximizing your potential. Live life to the fullest in our warm, intellectually stimulating environment which attracts educated and curious individuals.

JUST LISTED 2105 Gulf of Mexico Drive #3204, Longboat Key, 34228, 2 beds, 2 baths, 1,463 Sq. Ft. $835,000

As a not-for-profit with more than 23 years in senior living, Aviva enjoys a legacy of excellence. Experience the Possibilities at Aviva for yourself. Call 941.225.8369 for your personal tour today!

3503 Fair Oaks Cr, Longboat Key, 34228, 4 beds, 4 Full baths, 1 Partial bath, 3,462 Sq. Ft. $1,375,000

Dennis Girard

Broker Associate | Over 30 Years Experience Premier Sotheby’s International Realty 540 John Ringling Blvd., Sarasota, Florida 34236 Cell: 941-809-0041 | Fx: 941-556-4664 DennisGirard.PremierSothebysRealty.com dennis.girard@premiersir.com 231548

Sarasota’s Only Independent & Assisted Living, Memory Care, Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Rental Community

227457

229909

• 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 Center for the Arts Longboat Key Garden Club

1951 N. Honore Ave. | Sarasota, FL 34235 941.225.8369 | AvivaSeniorLife.org

Assisted Living Facility #8951 Skilled Nursing Facility #130471046

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

GOLDEN GATE POINT

$5,495,000

CASEY KEY

$5,295,000

L’AMBIANCE – LONGBOAT KEY

$2,595,000

LIDO SHORES

$2,200,000

Third floor grand residence with 5,658 SF, 4 bedrooms, 5 baths, 2 terraces with water and city views. Private boat dock and 2 car garage.

Ninth Floor residence with 12’ ceilings and amazing views of Gulf, Bay and City Skyline! Sophisticated updating. New impact rated doors and windows.

GOLDEN GATE POINT

FROM $1,650,000

Eight unique residences with floor-to-ceiling windows. Resort style pool/spa, cabana, individiual garage space and private elevator foyer.

PLAYERS CLUB- LONGBOAT KEY

$895,000

Updated corner residence with impact doors and windows. Two bedrooms, 2 baths, expansive solarium and 2 covered parking spaces.

Key West Style Gulf to Bay compound on over 3/4 of an acre offers coveted island living only available on Casey Key.

Mid-Century Modern completely renovated in 2007. Three bedrooms, generous and private gardens with deeded beach access.

PIERRE-LONGBOAT KEY

$1,249,000

Mesmerizing views of the Gulf! Elegant penthouse unit with three bedrooms, three baths, generous terraces and two parking spaces.

PALM PLACE – DOWNTOWN

$529,000

Short distance to the Bayfront, City’s galleries, restaurants, & shopping.

This completely renovated 2 bedroom condominium is perfection!

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

RITZ RESIDENCES - PENTHOUSE

$3,595,000

RITZ TOWER – SARASOTA

$1,890,000

11B

Spectacular views from this majestic penthouse residence with over 4,200 SF. Full time conceirge, 24 hour in room dining, valet and more.

Sophisticated corner residence with 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, generous terraces for viewing, meticulous finishes and 2 parking spaces.

BEACHPLACE – LONGBOAT KEY

$949,000

SAN MARCO - DOWNTOWN

$499,000

Penthose residence wth an expanded terrace and views up and down the beach! Two bedroom, furnished unit with 2 parking spaces.

Live in the heart of the cultural corridor and close to downtown, theater, galleries and fine restaurants. Second-floor, 3 bedroom unit.

The Plaza at Five Points | 50 Central Avenue | Suite 110 | Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941.308.6554 Cheryl.Loeffler@sothebysrealty.com | CherylLoeffler.com Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate.

232127

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

41ST ANNUAL LONGBOAT KEY GARDEN CLUB HOME TOUR

12B

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

2

1

HOWARD HOME 5911 Emerald Harbor Drive

PAGE 16B

FLAHERTY HOME 3521 Fair Oaks Lane

PAGE 14B

On tour

The pool deck at Kim Howard and Kim McQuilken’s home at 5911 Emerald Harbor Drive is complete with a grill, television, sitting area and counter island facing into the kitchen.

3

The annual home tour takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 4.

GURCHIECK HOME

KATIE JOHNS

6473 Gulf of Mexico Drive

I

STAFF WRITER

t’s hard not to admire the homes while traveling down Gulf of Mexico Drive, but once a year, the Longboat Key Garden Club gives Longboat Key residents and visitors the chance to admire these homes from the inside. The annual Longboat Key Garden Club Home Tour, which benefits the club’s grant and scholarship funds, is quickly approaching. This year, four homes will welcome visitors with open doors. Before the big event on March 4, we previewed each home and its unique style.

PAGE 18B

4 The living room of Barbara Gurchieck’s home at 6473 Gulf of Mexico Drive leads out to a deck overlooking the pool.

ONLINE

See more photos from the home tour at YourObserver.com

Howard Rooks decorated his home at 246 Morningside Drive with paintings by and from friends.

ROOKS HOME 246 Morningside Drive

PAGE 19B

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

13B

Looking for Luxury Living on the Water?

REID MURPHY WILL LEAD YOU TO YOUR DREAM HOME!

3

2 Photo taken by Reid Murphy

Call REID Today! 941.232.3304

JU

Photos by Katie Johns

The blue in the dining room in 3521 Fair Oaks Lane in Queens Harbor was one of Pantone’s Color of the Year selections last year, Serenity.

IF YOU GO When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 4 Cost: $25, includes access to all four homes Where to buy tickets: n Exit Art, 5380 Gulf of Mexico Drive and 201 Gulf of Mexico Drive n Design 2000, 6840 GMD n Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce, 5390 GMD n J. McLaughlin, 515 Bay Isles Parkway n Each home on the day of the tour Contact: Madelyn Spoll at 3834818 or Susan Landau at 383-8030 or visit the club’s website lbkgardenclub.org.

S

IS TL

TE

D

LONGBOAT HARBOUR WATER FRONT CONDO

NE

W

PR

ICE

1 BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME ON LONGBOAT KEY $825,000 Wide canal lot on Dream Island Rd. Direct bay access. A boater’s paradise!

GATED WESTWAY ESTATE $6,900,000 Exquisite w/ stunning views, expansive windows and verandas. Dramatic pool w/jacuzzi. New dock & lift.

R

4

LIDO KEY

$429,000

Bayfront, walk-in walk-out ground floor condo. Newly remodeled with all new features and high-end appliances. Plus Longboat Harbour beach, tennis, docks and community amenities.

U ED

CE

D

N STUNNING BAYFRONT HOME $5,200,000 Custom Built w/ amazing views extraordinary finishes.

Boat dock & deeded beach access on LBK.

WATER CLUB PREMIER CONDO $1,495,000 Plaza level unique & spacious 2BD/3BA + den. Expansive windows, high ceilings, superb amenities.

INCREDIBLE OPPORTUNITY TO BUILD $2,100,000 Country Club Shores w/ expansive Bay views & deepwater dock. Build your dream home on LBK!

MAGNIFICENT LBK BAYFRONT $4,695,000 Magnificent Bayfront. Spectacular Skyline Views Deep Water Dockage.

LONGBOAT KEY CANAL HOME $650,000 North Longboat Key 3BD/2BA home on oversized lot with boat basin and views over the bayou.

WHITAKERS LANDING LOT ON DEEP WATER $1,750,000 One lot from Bay w/100 ft. seawall on a deep channel.

Gated community of luxury homes. Beautiful views.

Developers Realty Inc. Lic. R.E. Broker • 1266 1st St., Suite 9, Sarasota, FL 34236

www.reidmurphy.com

229879

N

14B

LONGBOAT KEY GARDEN CLUB HOME TOUR

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

Flaherty home

T

wo words come to mind when you walk into the Flaherty home — calm and soothing.

The 4,100-square-foot house is located at 3521 Fair Oaks Lane in Queens Harbor on the fourth fairway of the Longboat Key Club Harbourside Golf Course. It exudes a simple but timeless look. The home is open and clean. When you walk in, your eyes immediately go to the living room, which is decorated with blues and greens, much like the colors of the coast.

Julie Flaherty said she likes to follow color trends, which might be why the home she shares with her husband, John, is so put together. The blue in the dining room was one of Pantone’s Color of the Year selections last year, Serenity.

The green in the living room is 2017’s top color, Greenery.

“I think it’s a house that will age well,” Julie Flaherty said.

The two bought the house in April and bought new appliances. Thankfully, the two said, they only live on one floor of it.

The upstairs they reserve for guests, as well as the room that is attached to the pool deck.

— KATIE JOHNS

Photos by Katie Johns

Julia Flaherty said she likes following color trends, so neutral furniture allows her to mix in colorful accents.

Between the guest house and main house is a pool and deck.

The Flahertys’ home is located at Queens Harbour behind Bay Isles.

“If you have integrity, nothing else matters.

If you don’t have integrity, nothing else matters.”

LIST WITH LOUIS Sav v y. Discre et. Proven.

Kim Freiwald,PA Realtor

941 256 6775 KimFreiwald@gmail.com Kimfreiwald.PremierSothebysRealty.com

LOUIS WERY 941.232.3001

Sarasota Magazine 5-Star Customer Service Award 2010-2017

louis.wery@sothebysrealty.com KANAYA 505 S Orange Avenue #603 • $1,175,000

4004 Commodore, Cortez, FL

Languages: English, French, Spanish, Portuguese and Italian

SUBSTANTIAL PRICE ADJUSTMENT

$1,249,000

MLS #A4165866 Custom Built Gorgeous Courtyard Home with waterview. Gated in protected Marina just minutes to Anna Maria and beautiful island beaches. Lots of privacy yet ideally located near restaurants, shopping and beaches. Deeded slip holds up to 40’ vessels.

MLS #A4175673

683 El Centro, Longboat Key, FL

$299,000 MLS #A4171497 Spanish Main Yacht Club - 2 Units Available at this great location in waterfront community with deep water marina and deeded beach access.

Both units are 2/2 villas and have been updated. Clubhouse, heated pool that overlooks marina, friendly and social community. Pets are welcome!

DESOTA PARK 1930 Datura Street • $1,349,000

THE LOOP OF NW BRADENTON

SIESTA KEY

1801 97th Street NW • $639,000

3625 White Lane • $1,395,000

6680 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Longboat Key FL

$2,200,000 MLS#A4122564 Largest parcel of waterfront property on LBK for sale. Located on Bishops Bayou it is meticulously landscaped and the ideal combination of privacy, serenity and beauty. This parcel offers unlimited opportunity for four individual homes, family compound or a solid buy and hold investment. Lovely and well maintained 1800 sq. ft. home on the property with private deeded beach access.

PREMIERSOTHEBYSREALTY.COM Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate.

223422

$369,000

228141

755 El Centro, Longboat Key, FL

THE MEADOWS 3640 Longmeadow • $599,000

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

15B

ColdwellBankerHomes.com

#1 Real Estate Brokerage in Florida* | 110-Year Legacy | Unmatched Property Exposure on 725+ Websites

Longboat Key | 5/5.2 | $8,400,000 | Lynne Koy 866.600.6008 5050 Gulf of Mexico Dr | Search A4104843 on CBHomes.com

Bay Isles | 4/3.1 | $2,650,000 The Ackerman Group 866.600.6008 1541 Harbor Cay Ln Search A4176823 on CBHomes.com

74442

Casey Key | 5/5.2 | $6,750,000 | Jill Friedman 866.600.6008 1808 Casey Key Rd | Search A4165855 on CBHomes.com

531018

Bay Isles | 5/5.2 | $2,625,000 Bruce Myer 866.600.6008 541866 3441 Bayou Ct Search A4177243 on CBHomes.com

Bird Key | 4/3.1 | $2,599,000 Lynne Koy 866.600.6008 469375 Open Sun 1-4 | 444 Meadow Lark Dr Search A4168042 on CBHomes.com

Grand Bay | 3/3.1 | $1,745,000 The Ackerman Group 866.600.6008 3040 Grand Bay Blvd, #246 Search A4171073 on CBHomes.com

Longboat Key Estates | 3/3.1 | $1,625,000 Lynn Robbins 866.600.6008 477770 593 Kingfisher Ln Search A4118335 on CBHomes.com

Beaches of Longboat Key | 2/2 | $1,350,000 Barbara Miller 866.600.6008 502374 775 Longboat Club Rd, #1002 Search A4163636 on CBHomes.com

Lido Beach | 3/2 | $1,299,000 Roger Pettingell 866.600.6008 469027 1117 Benjamin Franklin Dr, #A Search A4171638 on CBHomes.com

Sleepy Lagoon | 3/3 | $1,225,000 Gene DePoris 866.600.6008 532635 Open Sun 1-5 | 6449 Gulf of Mexico Dr Search A4167286 on CBHomes.com

Veinte | 2/2 | $1,080,000 Judy Kepecz-Hays 866.600.6008 496674 Open Sat/Sun 1-4 | 2675 Gulf of Mexico Dr, #403 Search A4171107 on CBHomes.com

Country Club Shores | 3/2 | $996,000 Norma Mladineo 866.600.6008 539323 Open Sun 1-4 | 541 Putting Green Ln Search A4166784 on CBHomes.com

Tangerine Bay Club | 3/2.1 | $995,000 Judy Kepecz-Hays 866.600.6008 496680 Open Sun 1-4 | 340 Gulf of Mexico Dr, #114 Search A4171719 on CBHomes.com

Oyster Bay Estates | 3/3.2 | $925,000 Bruce Myer 866.600.6008 532246 Open Sun 1-4 | 1613 Field Rd Search A4167174 on CBHomes.com

Laguna Yacht Village | 3/3 | $849,000 David/Wendy Leventhal, P.A. 866.600.6008 493825 6330 Laguna Dr Search A4131668 on CBHomes.com

Palm Harbor | 3/2 | $799,000 Karen MacKinnon 866.600.6008 476508 5 Palm Harbor Dr Search A4176165 on CBHomes.com

Condo on the Bay Tower I | 2/2 | $785,000 Kathy Scott/Barb Sigurdson 866.600.6008 531116 888 Blvd of the Arts, #1105 Search A4175347 on CBHomes.com

Harbour Links | 2/2.1 | $774,000 Linda Weber 866.600.6008 536769 Open Sun 1-4 | 2057 Harbour Links Dr, #2057 Search A4171669 on CBHomes.com

Whitney Beach | 2/2 | $699,500 Mirta Klauber 866.600.6008 468895 6701 Gulf of Mexico Dr, #331 Search A4147681 on CBHomes.com

Beachplace | 2/2 | $614,000 Sandy Endres 866.600.6008 530743 1095 Gulf of Mexico Dr, #404 Search A4165122 on CBHomes.com

Harbour Oaks | 3/2.1 | $575,000 Anita Caravello 866.600.6008 525520 2309 Harbour Oaks Dr Search A4161128 on CBHomes.com

Orange Club Condo | 2/2 | $574,900 Dyrk Dahl/Gwen Kruse 866.600.6008 541297 635 S Orange Ave, #403 Search A4176436 on CBHomes.com

Country Club Shores | 2/2 | $525,000 Norma Mladineo 866.600.6008 541351 Open Sat/Sun 1-4 | 1200 Bogey Ln Search A4176748 on CBHomes.com

Seaplace V | 2/2 | $499,900 Sandy Endres 866.600.6008 536317 1945 Gulf of Mexico Dr, #M2-507 Search A4170381 on CBHomes.com

Lido Shores | 2/2 | $459,900 Marilyn Kneafsey 866.600.6008 79148 Open Sun 1-4 | 350 S Polk Dr, #308 Search A4176702 on CBHomes.com

Inn on the Beach | 1/1 | $339,000 Carolyn Donnelly 866.600.6008 541810 225 Sands Point Rd, #7202 Search A4176953 on CBHomes.com

CALL

541559

866.600.6008

AND

ENTER

THE

CODE

FOR

PROPERT Y

DETAILS

OR

TO

536142

SPE AK

Long Beach | 4/3 | $1,695,000 Roger Pettingell 866.600.6008 497006 7100 Longboat Dr E Search A4173579 on CBHomes.com

WITH

THE

AGENT.

*Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate is ranked number one in closed residential buyer and/or seller transaction sides in Orlando, Tampa/St. Petersburg and Pensacola/Panhandle, and number one in residential sales volume (calculated by multiplying number of buyer and/or seller transaction sides by the sales price) in Miami/Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Tampa/St. Petersburg and Pensacola/Panhandle, according to data submitted to REAL Trends by NRT LLC, 2016. One unit equals one side of a transaction (buyer or seller). Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate are independent contractor sales associates and are not employees of the Company. The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Š2016 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker, the Coldwell Banker logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International and the Previews logo are registered and unregistered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.

226216

Longboat Key 941.383.6411 | Sarasota Downtown 941.366.8070 | St. Armands Circle 941.388.3966

Administered by American Home Shield

16B

LONGBOAT KEY GARDEN CLUB HOME TOUR

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

Photos by Katie Johns

The home is located in Emerald Harbor.

Howard-McQuilken home The kitchen is adjacent to the living room and features a small window and counter that overlook the pool deck. Once outside, guests can still enjoy TV while relaxing poolside.

The living room gives off a sea vibe with blue tones spread throughout.

T

he home of Kim Howard and Kim McQuilken at 5911 Emerald Harbor Drive was designed to be livable and open.

The open home is supposed to feel like sand and sea, and it does with white walls and a light blue couch. Howard only displays books that have tones of blue and green on the cover on the entertainment center shelves to add to the theme. Upstairs, two bedrooms offer space for guests.

The couple designed the home to be entertaining for everyone, and with a spacious pool deck off the living room and kitchen, complete with a sitting area, TV and grilling area, it appears everyone will have a space to relax.

Outside of the pool deck is a vast backyard where Howard grows edible plants, including olive, mango, lime and banana trees. In the front of the house, she has blueberry bushes.

— KATIE JOHNS

GOOD PLUMBING. GOOD TIMES. AQUA’S GOT YOUR BACK. CALL US TODAY!

99 OFF AMERICAN BRAND $

WATER HEATER & INSTALLATION

Valid on American Brand. Meets all government efficiency standards. Cannot be combined with other offers. Must present coupon at time of service. Call Aqua Plumbing & Air at 941-306-3715 for complete details. Expires on 2/28/2017.

139 PLUMBING

50 OFF EVOLUTION

$

$

MAINTENANCE PLAN

COMPACT 1/4 HP DISPOSER

Includes 5 year warranty.

Cannot be combined with other offers. Must present coupon at time of service. Call Aqua Plumbing & Air at 941-306-3715 for complete details. Expires on 2/28/2017.

Plan includes annual home inspection and treatment on 2 1/2 bath home with kitchen, laundry, and one water heater. Additional options available. Cannot be combined with other offers. Must present coupon at time of service. Call Aqua Plumbing & Air at 941-306-3715 for complete details. Expires on 2/28/2017.

“I just wanted to thank you for the follow-up on the re-pipe job at our home. The guys have been wonderful and I am very impressed with your company. We have been ‘burned’ many times by local businesses when contracting them for work at the house, so it is very refreshing to deal with people who are reliable and reputable. I could think of many more exciting ways to spend our money but I know that we had to have the work done. Rest assured, we will definitely think of Aqua Plumbing & Air as our 1st choice for any further work we might need...”

- R & M. PLUMBING • Air Conditioning • Electrical • Water Treatment

AQUA Got Your Back! ’S

For over four decades, residents in Sarasota and Manatee Counties have trusted Aqua Plumbing & Air to meet a full range of services with 100% dedication to your satisfaction.

Call Today! 941-306-3715 aquaplumbing.com

License #: CAC1816020; CFC057648; EC13005269

224054

Payment options for all credit levels.

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

17B

A Tradition of Exceptional Service for Extraordinary Lifestyles

PRESENTS HER

Broker/Associate, CRB, CRS, GRI Previews International Property Specialist

LU XU RY COLLECTION SHOWCASE LISTING

SUNDAY OPEN HOUSE 1-4 NEW PRICE!

SUNDAY OPEN HOUSE 1-4

BIRD KEY - Extensively renovated canal-front home!

New travertine tile floors, new maple cabinets in kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Open floorplan with 3,010 sq ft, 100 ft of seawall, and 10,000 lb boat lift.

456MeadowLarkDr.com $2,290,000

BIRD KEY - Retreat to this enchanting private oasis!

Featuring two levels of living, majestic free-form pool and cascading waterfall, outdoor kitchen, multiple fire pits, boat lift, and 100’ of seawall. www.444MeadowLarkDr.com $2,599,000

BIRD KEY - Beautifully updated garden home. Lushly landscaped, with a pool and private backyard that is perfect for entertaining! 3 BD/3 BA, open floorplan with two master suites plus guest room with two murphy beds.

429PheasantWay.com $1,045,000

Office: 941.387.1803 Cell: 941.544.5117 lkoy@coldwellbanker.com LynneKoy.com

LONGBOAT KEY - “Acqua Vita - Water of Life”, a masterful collaboration of the awardwinning firms Perrone Construction and Clifford M. Scholz Architects. Located on nearly an acre of land, this exquisite residence offers 11,000+ square feet of living area, deeded beach access on the Gulf of Mexico, and 260 feet of seawall.

AcquaVita-LBK.com $8,400,000

FRIDAY OPEN HOUSE 10AM-1PM

BIRD KEY - 11th largest home site on Bird Key, offering 25,895 sq ft on Sarasota Bay and 233’ of seawall! Multiple vast terraces with soaring wood beam ceilings, pool with fountain, boat lift, and magnificent endless water views with Western exposure.

554SSpoonbillDr.com $4,395,000

PRICE JUST REDUCED

COUNTRY CLUB SHORES - Fantastic opportunity for water-front living on Longboat Key! This 1,939 sq ft home has been lovingly maintained. Offering 100 ft of seawall on a deep water canal, 10,000 lb boatlift, pool and spa, and new roof in 2016.

581RangerLane.com $779,000

BUTTONWOOD COVE - Rarely available top floor corner condo! 3 BD/2 BA, 2 terraces with sweeping views of both the Gulf AND the Bay! Updated kitchen, bathrooms, new A/C, and laundry in unit.

3630GulfofMexicoDr301.com $549,000

LONGBOAT KEY - Bright and airy 2BD/2BA condo in the Castillian. The terrace has been enclosed, adding square footage and extending the breathtaking views of the Gulf! Newer tile throughout, and washer and dryer in unit.

4525GulfofMexicoDr204.com $575,000

INVOLVED CITIZEN:

SPARCC Board Member | Make-A-Wish Volunteer Driver for Meals on Wheels | Breast Cancer Awareness Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe Advisory Board Member Sarasota Opera | Supporter of Mote Marine Laboratory | Tiger Bay Club Member Advisory Board Member of the Canadaigua National Trust Company

LONGBOAT KEY - Enjoy Gulf views from this sleek and modern condo in Beachplace! High-end contemporary finishes, porcelain tile floors, raised ceilings, new kitchen and appliances, all new windows and sliders.

1075GulfofMexicoDr302.com $649,000

Global Marketing Reach: NY Times | Coldwell Banker World Properties | Trulia | Right Moves Realtor.com | Zillow | Wall Street Journal China List Globally | Luxury Real Estate | Coldwell Banker Previews Prop Go Luxury | Robb Report | Unique Homes

$40 Million in Pending and Closed Sales in 2016! Thank you to my customers and clients for your loyalty!

Thinking of Selling Your Home?

Lynne provides the hands-on service, personal attention and unmatched market experience to get the results you deserve.

For real estate representation built on trust and your satisfaction call Lynne today at 941.544.5117.

Follow me on:

201 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Suite 1 • Longboat Key, Florida 34228 Top ½ of 1% of all Coldwell Banker Agents Internationally for Closed Transactions.

230053

For more information on these or any of Lynne’s extensive portfolio of premier properties, visit the newly redesigned LynneKoy.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

A floral tile painting adorns the tilework above the stove in the kitchen.

Gurchieck home A

s you walk up the steps of Barbara Gurchieck’s home at 6473 Gulf of Mexico Drive, you notice watercolor paintings of various houses. Each are houses she previously owned.

Now, Gurchieck is putting her Gulf of Mexico Drive home in the spotlight for this year’s home tour. The two-bedroom home was built in 2001 and features a dining room and a den that can be used as a bedroom. A balcony off the living room looks over the pool deck.

The house sports a simple theme, with light brown, almost sandy walls with colorful accents. A fruit bowl in the kitchen, a vase of flowers in the dining room, red chairs and a light blue couch in the living room bring out the vibrance in the home.

The two bedrooms give off more personality with light yellow and green walls and colorful comforters that contrast. The new pool and spa outside offer a layout for a perfect pool day complete with patio furniture and umbrellas.

Photos by Katie Johns

The kitchen leads to a den that could be used as a guest bedroom.

The home is located on Gulf of Mexico Drive.

As viewed from the second floor, the pool deck features plenty of seating and a hot tub.

— KATIE JOHNS

The Longboat Observer presents

2017 Town of Longboat Key General Election Candidate Forum Featuring Town Commission Candidates:

MONDAY

February 27th 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Bayfront Park Recreation Center 4052 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key

Town Commissioner At-Large Jim Brown and Gene Jaleski Town Commissioner District 4 Jack Daly and Larry K. Grossman

FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC For more information, call 941-366-3468; email candidateforum@yourobserver.com 232145

LONGBOAT KEY GARDEN CLUB HOME TOUR

18B

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

Photos by Katie Johns

Rooks’ kitchen is complete with an inside grill and deep fryer.

Howard Rooks home

I

n Howard Rooks’ kitchen hangs a painting of a party scene. A man is playing a saxophone, a woman plays the piano and people are dancing in the background. In a way, it depicts an unexpected aspect of Rooks’ home. It’s a good party house, but he didn’t plan it that way.

The painting itself is one Rooks said “makes you go, ‘Oh, let’s have a party.’”

The layout of Rooks’ home is one that would avail itself to such an endeavor. To the right of the entrance is a billiards room that leads out to the courtyard and pool. His kitchen is complete with an inside grill

Rooks’ home is located on Lido Shores.

To the left of Howard Rooks’ home front entrance is a billiards room complete with decor including this bull head.

and deep fryer. He has a rooftop deck with a fireplace, and a hot tub sits outside of his office.

However, his house is one he has filled with paintings of his grandchildren and art from friends and artists around the country. He even added a small desk upstairs with a computer for his grandchildren.

Rooks had the home built for himself and has lived there for the past 10 years. It has four bedrooms, and is almost 5,000 square feet. It’s located at 246 Morningside Drive in Lido Shores, three blocks from the Gulf of Mexico.

19B

LONGBOAT KEY GARDEN CLUB HOME TOUR

Off the kitchen, a living room overlooks Rooks’ backyard.

|

— KATIE JOHNS

DEBUTS ITS F I RS T N E W H OM E COMMU N IT Y IN SAR ASOTA

Healthy

living…peaceful

water

views…an

ideal

location—this is Artistry Sarasota, Kolter Homes’ first single-family new home community in Sarasota, the city that was recently ranked number 13 in the “Top 20 Most Desirable Places to Live” by US News readers.

Featuring winding roads and 100 acres of sparkling lakes, Artistry Sarasota is beautifully laid out so that 90 percent of the homes will offer lakefront or water views. A trail system of natural material and paved paths connect neighborhoods and preserve areas promoting walkability and healthy living.

Healthy living is also embraced in Artistry Sarasota’s home designs.

Kolter Homes’ sustainable building practices result in smarter,

Artistry Sarasota is beautifully laid out so that 90 percent of the homes will offer lakefront or water view sites.

healthier homes. More windows and ceiling heights up to 11’ 4” allow for an abundance of natural light. Energy efficient plumbing fixtures and appliances conserve water and energy while thermal doors and windows and sealed duct systems can help lower utility bills.

Kolter Homes plans to offer ten unique floorplans ranging from 2-5 bedrooms with open room design concepts that provide flexibility to maximize space. Using Kolter Homes’ Flex Options and Design Gallery, homebuyers can expand and personalize spaces, add outdoor living areas and incorporate a variety of structural and finish options to truly make their home a reflection of their distinctive style. Kolter’s Model Center at Artistry Sarasota will feature six designer-decorated homes and is currently scheduled to officially open for tours in April.

Soon after the new home models open, Kolter Homes will begin work on The Club at Artistry Sarasota. This

GRAND OPENING PRICES FROM THE $400s

resident-only lakeside clubhouse plans to features a modern Fitness & Training Center, tennis courts and a resort-inspired pool with lap lanes and an expansive sun deck.

Realtors Warmly Welcomed. Pricing, availability, specifications and amenities are subject to change without notice.

231902

The Artistry Sarasota Model Center will open at 8900 Bernini Place, just off Iona Road one mile north of Bee Ridge Road and convenient to I-75, downtown, shopping and the airport.

Homebuyers interested in joining the VIP list for news and early previews of the model homes and community can learn more and register at ArtistrySarasota.com.

WEATHER

20B

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

FORECAST

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

SUNRISE / SUNSET

FRIDAY, FEB. 24

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, Feb. 23

High: 79 Low: 60 Chance of rain: 10%

SATURDAY, FEB. 25 High: 74 Low: 60 Chance of rain: 10%

7:00a

6:27p

Friday, Feb. 24

6:59a

6:27p

Saturday, Feb. 25

6:58a

6:28p

Sunday, Feb. 26

6:57a

6:29p

Monday, Feb. 27

6:57a

6:20p

Tuesday, Feb. 28

6:56a

6:30p

Wednesday, March 1

6:55a

6:31p

MOON PHASES

SUNDAY, FEB. 26 High: 80 Low: 62 Chance of rain: 10%

Feb. 26 New

TIDES

Stan Singer photographed this sunny day at Durante Park on Longboat Key.

Submit your photos at YourObserver.com/weather

March 12 March 20 Full Last

Highs

Lows

Thursday, Feb. 23

11:45a 9:40p

Friday, Feb. 24

12:03p

Saturday, Feb. 25

12:18p 11:09p

6:20a 5:40p

Sunday, Feb. 26

12:35p 11:53p

6:50a 6:21p

Monday, Feb. 27

— 12:54p

7:20a 7:06p

12:39a 1:17p

7:49a 7:54p

Wednesday, March 1 1:28a 1:45p

8:19a 8:47p

Tuesday, Feb. 28

ONLINE

March 5 First

10:26p

5:12a 4:14p 5:47a ­4:58p

and facebook.com/ObserverGroup

a reflection of nature’s beauty Your One Stop Home Improvement Specialist. Family Owned and Operated for over 35 Years.

4551 N. Washington Blvd.,Sarasota • 941.355.8437 | 2510 1st Street W., Bradenton • 941.748.4679 | 1734 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice • 941.493.7441

CROSSWORD

SPELLING BEE by Timothy B. Parker

120 Domingo start 121 Tabby’s counterpart 122 Inventor Whitney 123 Quick letter 124 Sgt. and cpl., e.g.

125 Colorado ski resort 126 Fractional monetary unit of Japan

DOWN

1 Ball game played on lawns 2 Circa 3 Beethoven’s “Choral” Symphony 4 Helvetica, for one 5 ___ and aahs 6 Fuss, in a Shakespeare title 7 Like composition paper 8 Sight, for example 9 Facial outbreak 10 Chico or Karl 11 Common altar phrase 12 Comfy room in the house 13 China’s ___ of Four 14 Prefix with bacterial or freeze 15 “Crazy” bird 16 “Green Gables” girl 18 July holiday (with “the”) 20 Dangerous African fly 23 Female that romps in the woods 24 Alternative version of the music 25 “___ moment” 30 Bartender on “The Love Boat” ©2017 Universal Uclick 31 Older relative 29 Old anesthetic autonomy in 1962 90 “OK class, ‘et’ words, go!” 32 Surrounding, invisible ACROSS 30 Caesar’s worst day 60 Frequently, in old poetry 93 Numbers game for sensation 1 Embargo 31 Box office take 62 ___ moss gamblers 34 Islet 4 Some farm young ‘uns 33 Some Greek consonants 64 “OK class, ‘an’ words, go!” 95 ___ gin fizz 35 Far from prepared 9 Immersed in 36 Mythical one who flew too 72 Musical composition 96 “Messiah” composer 37 Gunky, icky stuff 13 Apple variety or fancy near the sun concerning rural life 97 Two words before many 38 Org. cofounded by Jane party 39 Expensive cracker spread 73 Bygone flightless bird of words?

Addams 17 ___-Wan Kenobi 43 Hopi Indian doll New Zealand 98 Place in alphabetical 39 Snakes, to mongooses 18 Culinary aficionado 46 “OK class, ‘ar’ words, go!” 74 Change or alter order 40 Roundish hairstyle 19 Citadel student 48 Aria, e.g.

75 “... and make it ___” 99 Defibrillator operators, 41 Forbidden perfume?

21 Soon, to a bard 49 Bring up the rear (“Hurry up!”) for short 42 At one time, at one time 22 “OK class, ‘on’ words, go!”

51 Arm bone 79 Nest egg acct.

102 Huge wall picture 43 Aussie “bear” 26 Things derived from 52 Parts of sentences 82 “___ known then what ...” 107 More like custard, in 44 Adjust, as a car’s wheels construction paper 53 It gets belted 84 Goatlike Asian mammal a way 45 Trig function 27 Antique auto or English 55 Almond-colored 85 Itty-bitty bits 46 Poker player’s strategem 111 “Be that as ___ ...” county 56 Clinker of a firecracker 86 Visa alternative, briefly 47 Online game characters 113 Not just anger 28 Little “I think I can, I think 57 Lotto winner’s option 87 Tributary of the Rhone 115 “OK class, ‘in’ words, go!” 48 Q-Tip, e.g.

I can” utterer 58 Republic that gained 89 Penny 50 A way to dewrinkle 119 Verbal exam

54 Walk pointlessly or tediously 57 Mama’s mate 59 “500” race 61 Scottish cap 63 Surround or encircle 65 Sustenance or nourishment 66 Like a pitcher’s perfect game 67 “Serpico” author Peter 68 Female member of the family 69 Harder to find 70 Lack of muscle tone 71 Colorful salamander 75 They’re all in the family 76 The Christmas season 77 Prefix meaning “quintillionth” 78 Book part 80 Abbr. after many an elderly general’s name 81 Bridge toll unit 83 Salami joints 86 Not completely shut, as a door 88 Aliens, for short 91 Rose stem projections 92 Resin used in varnish 94 Small bird with blue wings 98 Whale smaller than the finback 100 Ray under water 101 Proofers’ catches 103 Tall coffee holder 104 Evaluates 105 Quick, sure-footed and catlike 106 Man interred in Red Square 107 Black, in poetry 108 Copter’s forerunner 109 Buzzing pest 110 Doing nothing 111 Disappear ___ thin air 112 Some boxing match enders 113 “___ bitten, twice shy” 114 “Give ___ example” (group request) 116 Summer cooler 117 Letters after some business names 118 Mischievous one

229077

www.manasotaonline.com

CRYPTOQUIZ Each of the following cryptograms is a clue to the identity of an American politician. Using the hints O=A and D=S, decipher the clues to name the politician.

1. C O D D O G T I D A R R D 2. X A N B G F O R 3. R T A Z U B H 4. S F B Q F A D D U W U D C 5. T A O Z R T G O F A This politician served in the Senate for over 47 years:

SUDOKU

Solve the puzzle by placing the numbers 1 through 9 in each row, column and box.

Nov 19 (Easy, difficulty rating 0.40)

3

6

8 9 1

6 1 8 7 1

4

5

9

4

6 7

6

9 1 3

3

8 3

4 1

6

8

7

2

8 2-23-17

Nov 19 (Easy, difficulty rating 0.40)

7

3

5

2

6 4 8 9 1

8 6 1

5

7

9 2

4 3

4 1

3

8 7

5

6

1

4 8 3

5

6 9 2

7

3

9 2

9 2

4 8 7

1

6 5

8 7 Thursday, February 23, 2017

Items Under $200 For Sale ADVERTISE YOUR MERCHANDISE with the total value of all items $200 or less in this section for FREE! Limit 1 ad per month, 15 words or less. Price must be included next to each item. No commercial advertising.

Ad runs 2 consecutive weeks in 1 Observer.

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 P.O. Box 3169 Sarasota, Fl 34230 DECORATIVE WALL Glass Shelves (2): new, half price, still in original box $150. 941-387-1415.

NEW YORKER Magazine cartoon drawings on assorted six 8” plates. Boxed, new/unused, $30.

941-383-0509.

SATELLITE RADIO: 150 chan music, sports, talk, no commercials. $75 OBO. (941)404−0935.

Antiques/Collectibles

BUYING ART

1

4

5

9

4

Boats

Call Al Tomlinson

941-400-8811 “Paying the highest prices in the Sarasota area for over 40 years” PURCHASING EAMES, Knoll, Danish, Dunbar, Evans, Laverne, Nakashima, Parzinger furniture, glass, pottery and designer clothing. Tommy McDonnell 772-643-3209.

Autos Wanted WE BUY CARS. TOP $$ PAID FOR YOUR VEHICLES. Call Hawley Motors, 941-923-3421.

Boat Slips For Rent/Sale DRY DOCK Boat Slip: Longboat Key, Unit-2124. $295/mo. 6/month minimum. Or for Sale $18,950.

708-267-6704.

7

PART TIME Beach Attendant wanted for Longboat Key resort. Swimming and Sailing experience.

Some boat maintenance skills are required. Hours are flexible and do include weekends. You would be setting up the beach in the morning and breaking it down in the evening. Keeping the beach in an orderly condition. Must be service oriented, as you would be offering chairs and umbrellas to the guests as well as setting up the Hobie Cat boats, kyacks and standup paddle boards. Call 941-383-5511 for further information.

9 1

1958 68/ft. Trumpy Complete 2 Year Restoration For Sale or Charter

3

ChitwoodCharters.com Party/ Real Estate/ Wedding Cruises Marina Jack’s Docks Grand Banks and Selene Yachts 36/ft. to 68/ft.

2hrs./2 months 941-383-5232

Island Boat Sales Snowbirds are Here.

Now Is The Time To Sell.

“Business On A Handshake” Dave/Owner 941-228-3489

4 1

6

8

CONCIERGE PART−TIME. We are looking for a Concierge for Saturday and Sunday, 7am to 3pm and 3pm to 11pm at a luxury condominium in downtown Sarasota. The ideal candidate would be an outgoing people person with good computer skills. The job will include greeting and assisting residents and guests and answering the phone.

Some moving of patio furniture may be required.

Reliability is key. We are looking for a positive and respectful attitude and a willingness to assist high end residents in a relatively stress free environment.

Must be able to pass background check and drug test. Only non−smokers please.

2

Commercial Property For Rent

EXECUTIVE DESK: 3 pieces, luxurious high quality solid wood, a classic. 941-929-9620, appt. only.

OFFICE SPACE Professional or Medical Office Space for Lease in Downtown Longboat Key! 1,000 − 3,295 s.f. Michelle Robles, Robles Realty, 321−377−6231. www.RoblesRealty.com

Garage/Moving/Estate Sales

Condos/Apts. For Rent

ANNUAL FLEA MARKET Saturday, February 25th, 8a.m.-1p.m., Palma Sola Harbour Condos, 9400 Cortez Rd. West. Appliances, furniture, housewares, clothing, sporting equip., jewelry, linens, books, bikes, artwork. Coffee, donuts and lunch available.

1BR/1BA LONGBOAT Key. Beautiful canal front condo at Longboat Harbour on Longboat Key. Full kitchen, large walk-in closet, enclosed terrace with canal/ bay views. Gated community, covered parking, 4 pools, tennis, fitness center, fishing piers - lots more. MUST SEE! (734) 216-6622, longboatharbour.net

Furnishings

Merchandise Wanted Oil Paintings - Water Colors Sculpture - Bronzes Statuary - Asian Art

Help Wanted

6

CASH FOR Old Military Items. Swords, uniforms, insignia & old guns. Call 941-416-3280.

Personal Messages SOCIAL BRIDGE players, Canadian snowbirds, seek good-natured players for occasional games. Longboat Key, Whitney Beach: Donna 941-552-6977.

Personals *ADOPTION*: Architect & Creative Director yearn for 1st baby to LOVE & CHERISH FOREVER, FLBar42311 Expenses Paid *1-800-522-0045*

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

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

Help Wanted FULL-TIME PUBLIC Safety Officer, Ringling College of Art and Design. Benefits, health insurance, vacation Plus. Shift includes weekends: Midnight to 8am.

Apply online: https://ringling.simplehire.com EOE

BEACHPLACE, LBK. Newly renovated 2BR/2BA, updated kitchen/bathrooms, plenty of closets.

Beautiful view, spacious balcony. Pool, beach, fitness area. Designated parking. Minimum One month. Off-season availability. 201-723-0204 or E-mail: mlorenzo214@yahoo.com L’AMBIANCE: LBK. Luxury beachfront 2BR/3BA. See details under Seasonal/Vacation rentals. View at: www.thephotos.smugmug.com LONGBOAT HARBOUR: canal front, 1BR/1BA, beautifully furnished, new kitchen, wood floors, sleeps 6, 4 pools, beach to bay access, gated community, sold furnished, $249,900. Sharon Hightower, Re/Max Alliance Group, 941-330-5054.

6

Condos For Sale BEAUTIFUL GULF view condo just across from Lido Beach, a quick walk to St. Armands Circle. $649,000. 941-586-6252. Gene Deporis, Coldwell Banker R.E.

3

8

GORGEOUS WATER CLUB Condo: 3BR/4BA, beautiful Gulf view, exquisitely designed 2965/sq.ft. residence w/private elevator. Only $1,399,000.

941-586-6252. Gene Deporis, Coldwell Banker R.E. 2BR/2BA: LONGBOAT Key. End unit with direct Gulf views, $469,000. (973) 729−8690.

Homes For Sale

3

7

HARD MONEY: Investors - Realtors- Builders - Buyers *Purchase* Fix & Flip* Bridge* Project* Island Resident/Loan Broker 941-228-3489 www.LoanBroker1.com

8

This week’s Cryptoquiz answers

Answers: 1) Massachusetts, 2) Democrat, 3) The Lion, 4) Progressivism, 5) Health Care Ted Kennedy Nov 19 (Easy, difficulty rating 0.40) This week’s Sudoku answers

7

3

5

2

6 4 8 9 1

8 6 1

5

7

9 2

4 3

4 1

3

8 7

5

6

1

4 8 3

5

6 9 2

7

3

9 2

9 2

4 8 7

1

6 5

7

9 1

2

4 3

8

2

7

3

8 9 5

6 1

4

5

8 9 6 4 1

3

7

2

5

8 9

4 1

6 7

2

3

This week’s Crossword answers

Condos For Sale FULL BAY VIEW: By Owner, 2BR/2BA, First Floor, end unit, 1150SF, Gulf to Bay, tennis, pool, fishing pier, dock slip available, pet friendly. $329,000.

Pelican Harbor, 4234 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Call 941-387-3219. Open House Sunday: 1p.m.-3p.m.

BY OWNER: The Westchester unit A-304, 2BR/2BA, a spectacular view from top floor balconies, turnkey furnished, W/D in unit. Desirable mid-Key complex. Assigned covered parking, storage shed, 2 pools, clubhouse, tennis court, onsite manager. $649,000. Open House Saturdays and Sundays or by appointment. 813-390-6269, E-mail: mcalvare48@verizon.net

6 5

2017

TO ADVERTISE TODAY CALL 941-955-4888 OR VISIT

CLASSIFIEDS.YOUROBSERVER.COM

22B

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

Vacation/Seasonal Rentals

Cleaning

LBK BEACH HOUSE: private beach access 3BR/3BA, totally renovated, nearly half acre, gorgeous plantings. Just reduced to $1,225,000.

941-586-6252. Gene Deporis, Coldwell Banker R.E.

Homes For Sale

Vacation/Seasonal Rentals

LONGBOAT KEY: TIFFANY PLAZA. Beachfront Condos, 1st floor, 2BR/2BA, W/D in units, free Wi-Fi, heated pool, covered parking. Call 941-383-3338.

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

New Construction. 941-400-2866.

Vacation/Seasonal Rentals

THE WESTCHESTER GULF FRONT

3 BEDROOM Longboat Key. Available Feb., March, April, 2017. Across from private beach, sunset deck, updated, turnkey complete, 1/car garage, 55+ No pets. Non-smoking. Annual or Seasonal. 941-232-1357.

“Your Home by the Sea” www.casadelmar.net Weekly/Monthly Condominium Rentals 4 Night Minimum

Exceptional Vacation Rentals Since 1994 Homes & Condominiums Studios to Six Bedrooms Beachfront, Intercoastal or Garden Excellent Service & Staff

2BR/2BA, open, direct water views, tennis court, 2 heated pools, steps away from the sand.

Available 2018 941-228-5671

Reservations: 941-383-5549 Fax: 941-383-7925 Office Open 7 Days, 9a.m. - 5p.m.

4621 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key, FL 34228

FloRIDA VACATIon ConnECTIon www.Flvacationconnection.com 941-387-9709 877-705-2460

Fully equipped 2BR/2BA condos with washer and dryer, and wireless internet in each unit.

Weekly/ Monthly/ Seasonal Rates Beachfront, Bayfront and In Between Houses or Condos Reservations 941-383-6127 Visa/ MC 800-352-0367

Extra Large Heated Gulf View Swimming Pool!

L’AMBIANCE, LONGBOAT KEY Beach front 2BR/3BA condo on high floor with wrap-around terrace, 270 degree views over the Gulf, Sarasota Bay and LBK Club. Sunrises, sunsets through floor to ceiling windows.

View at: www.thephotos.smugmug.com Call John at: 203-984-8477 or E-mail: garment@optonline.net

OUR GUESTS RETURN FROM GENERATION TO GENERATION.

LBK: BOOK NOW for your seasonal rental. 1 & 3 Bedroom furnished condos starting at $1250 weekly. Beachfront and heated pool. The Outrigger Resort, 941-383-3187 or 941-383-3844.

LBK: JANUARY through March, 2017. 2BR/BA, 2 vanities, W/D, fully equipped, attractive, double veranda, steps from Gulf, clubhouse. Owner: 770-314-6321.

LIDO BEACH CONDOMINIUMS Weekly - Monthly - Seasonal Resort Properties, Inc. Licensed Real Estate Broker Full Service Condominium Management Accepting New Accounts for Management 941-650-1857 Visit us at: www.rpi-mgt.com ‘SHORT STORIES'... Longboat Key.. $4,997 Monthly... You have found it !!.. Available March, April. Spacious 2 bed 2 bath condo on the beach...

An open floor plan.. Call Jerry at KW Realty (941) 321-8848. Too see pics use this link (https://goo.gl/RXLuDH)

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

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

VACATION RENTALS AVAILABLE Now thru season.

Longboat - Lido - Mainland.

1-5 bedrooms.

30 / 60 /90 day stays.

Gulf Coast Rental Homes.

Exceptional properties and service. www.rentgulfhomes.com 941-212-1972 LONGBOAT KEY: 2BR/2BA 10th flr., completely remodeled, excellent Gulf view, beach, pool & tennis courts. Non-smoking. Available Mar.-Oct. 3 month minimum. 941-377-4177.

LIDO BEACH: 9th FL. Panoramic Gulf View, 1050sq.ft., 1BED/1.5BA, Balcony, TKF. Avail 4/1/17 Seasonal/ Annual. 60 day min. 941-356-1855. essenson@comcast.net myfloridahomesmls.com/prop/A3970687 LIDO BEACH HOUSE: 3BR/2BA, lanai, across from beach, walk to St. Armands.

No pets. Unfurnished. Available immediately.

Long term/Seasonal. 703-638-8128.

5360 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Suite 101 Longboat Key, FL 34228 Rental office 9a.m. - 5p.m. M-F

CLEANING. RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL. We take pride in pleasing customers.

Vacation Homes, Resorts, Schools, Churches, 941-756-4570.

Computer Services Cmagik - LBK resident, servicing our island year round for over 12 yrs. Bachelors Degree with 20 yrs. experience, PC or MAC. Professional help with computers, iPad/iPhones and tutoring.

References upon request.

Call Cort: 383-3878, 587-5588 cmagik.com OWN A MAC/iPHONE/iPAD? MacTutor has 21+ years experience teaching Apple products.

I speak English, not “Geek”! (941) 323-2363 www.FLMacTutor.com

Painting/Wallpapering CARLO DATTILO PAINTING. Licensed & insured.

Interior/ Exterior painting including drywall repair and retexturing. Wallpaper installation & removal, pressure washing. Residential & commercial, condos. Honest & reliable. Free estimates.

941-744-1020. 35+ years experience.

Pressure Cleaning AUTHORITY ONE SERVICES. Residential, Commercial and Construction Cleaning. Also available, power washing and windows. Call 941-251-5948.

Ask about our special rates!

Wagner Realty Since 1939 www.wagnerrentals.com

Adult Care Services PRIVATE HEALTHCARE PROVIDER: 30 years experience advanced training, live-in or live-out, clean background/ driving record. Bondable.

Covering New England and Florida. Non-smoker.

References. 850-774-3661.

Transportation LONGBOAT LIMOUSINE Your local luxury transportation provider since 1994.

New luxury Sedans and SUVs. Fully Licenced and insured.

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

Auto Transport SHIP YOUR CAR, TRUCK OR SUV anywhere in the United States. Great rates, fast quotes. Call Hawley Motors, 941-923-3421.

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

Excellent references. 941-773-6895.

BLUE FISH CLEANING INC. 941-705-3812.

Insured, Bonded. Affordable reliable home cleaning, $80, 2 cleaners, 2 hours.

GROW Reserved Space LP Reserved Space

MIKE THE LONGBOAT GUY AIRPORT TOWNCAR SERVICE Great Service and Great Rates TPA $80 PIE $70 SRQ $35 (Gratuities not included.)

941-592-5972 Office Hours: 8am -10pm Email: mikethelongboatguy@gmail.com Website: miketheislandguy.com

YOUR BUSINESS

For more information, call 941-955-4888 or visit classifieds.yourobserver.com

Cleaning Cleaning in in LWR, LWR, Sarasota Sarasota and and Bradenton Bradenton area. area.

Insured Insured and and Bonded.

Bonded. 15%off 15%off on on your your first first service. Call Call Us Us Now! Now! (941) (941) 650−8849 650−8849 service. www.idealpropertycareflorida.com www.idealpropertycareflorida.com

CLAUDIA CLAUDIA C. C. Cleaning Cleaning Services.

Services. Experienced, Experienced, Dependable and and ready ready to to begin! begin! Residential.

Residential.

Dependable Excellent Excellent references. references. 941-773-6895.

941-773-6895.

ALTERATIONS/UPHOLSTERY

CARLO CARLO DATTILO DATTILO PAINTING. PAINTING. Licensed Licensed & & insured. insured.

Interior/ drywall LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017 23B Interior/ Exterior Exterior painting painting including including drywall repair repair Office and retexturing. retexturing. Wallpaper Wallpaper installation installation & & removal, removal, Office Hours: Hours: 8am 8am -10pm -10pm and Email: mikethelongboatguy@gmail.com mikethelongboatguy@gmail.com pressure Email: pressure washing. washing. Residential Residential & & commercial, commercial, Website: condos.

Website: miketheislandguy.com miketheislandguy.com condos. Honest Honest & & reliable. reliable. Free Free estimates. estimates.

941-744-1020.

941-744-1020. 35+ 35+ years years experience. experience.

INSURANCE

PAINTING

TEPE UPHOLSTERY

Stucco Repair and Painting • Free Estimates PERSONAL SERVICES 40 YearsPERSONAL Experience SERVICES • Local References

KNOWLEDGE SOLUTIONS EXPERIENCE KNOWLEDGE Our team of professionals provides superior service and expertise for SOLUTIONS

Make Your ByPhone Ring Isabel

By Isabel GRAND of new Team Up With GRAND OPENING OPENING of our our new Classifieds

SHOWROOM SHOWROOM location location in in Palmetto Palmetto coming coming soon soon

“If “If you you can can dream dream it it 941-955-4888 Specialist Certified / Designer we can design it!� we can design it!�

Phone: Phone:

SPINERGY STONE CARE SOLUTIONS

224078 224078

941.387.0607 941.387.0607 www.fatcatcarpetcleaning.com www.fatcatcarpetcleaning.com

Providing personal and administrative support to individuals and small businesses.

Mailliard ~ Home • Condo •Mike Auto • Umbrella • Boat Mike Mailliard ~ Lacey Lacey Weaver Weaver Danielle Hrabos Hrabos ~ ~ Scott Scott Hammersand Hammersand Danielle Alex Alex Sandoval Sandoval ~ ~ Matthew Matthew Mailliard Mailliard Hannah Weaver Hannah Weaver 595 Bay Isles Rd. Suite 215

3 De-cluttering 3 Organization

Home • 941.554.8909 www.micinsurance.com Home • • Condo Condo • •|Auto Auto • Umbrella Umbrella • • Boat Boat

INSPECTION of CLEANING INSPECTION and CLEANING RESTORATION and RESTORATION

Your Bathroom Safety Specialist

CERTIFICATION CERTIFICATION CERTIFIED FIRM CERTIFIED FIRM

100% 100% SATISFACTION SATISFACTION GUARANTEED GUARANTEED CLEANING CLEANING

Lifetime Guarantee

Installed Within 24-Hours

3 Record Keeping 3 2IĂ€FH 7DVNV 3 +RXVHKROG 7DVNV

3 Document Creation 3 Special Projects

OR 778-4461 778-4461 PLUMBING OR • REPAIRS & REMODELING REMODELING RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL • REPAIRS &

KEEP YOUR INDEPENDENCE!

RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL

•• NEW NEW CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION • EMERGENCY SERVICE • EMERGENCY SERVICE •• WATER WATER HEATERS HEATERS Family Family Owned Owned & & Operated Operated • SEWER & DRAIN CLEANING Cert. Master Plumbers • SEWER & DRAIN CLEANING 2 Florida State 2 Florida State Cert. Master Plumbers #CFC1426596 #CFC1426596 INSTALLATION & CERTIFY

Since 1975

223759 223759

Ser with -4888 e, 955 Proudly serving Sarasota since 1987 Proudly serving Sarasota since 1987 your spac e rv se re to y toda Fonda Davies, Owners/Managers CallBill Bill & & Fonda Davies, Owners/Managers

CONCRETE CONCRETE

Custom Surfaces Custom Surfaces Inc. Inc. DECORATIVE SURFACES FOR:

230796

WWW.DRGRABBARS.COM Licensed • Bonded • Insured Locally Owned & Operated

941.966.0333

LP Missing: Missing: LP MASONRY # 224490 224490 #

Marble • All Natural Stones • Travertine • Granite • Terrazzo Grout Cleaning • Repair/ReďŹ nish • Clean & Seal Call for Free Estimate reliablemarblecare.com

PATIO REPAIRS Furniture Sales Furniture Sales Repairs Furniture Sales && Repairs Furniture Sales & &Repairs Repairs

PATIO FURNITURE REPAIRS PATIO REPAIRS, INC

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

Satisfaction Satisfaction Guarantee Guarantee Manufacture Manufacture and and Workmanship Workmanship Warranties Warranties

941-345-5264 941-345-5264

941-224-6649

WINDOWS WINDOWS

MOVERS MOVERS

Res./Com. Lic./Ins. Res./Com. Lic./Ins. w& ow ur Pr re &P essssu do re Wiin eC nd tt W Clle a e n e s a i e n n n s ass S Su u ing S un na nr wn riisse g ow no eW erly k kn Wind Sun ws ormerly Longboat Key Since 2005indo ow F s Form Serving Serving Longboat Key Since 2005

LP Missing: # 231639

231639 224492 224492

224079 230186 224079 38056 38056

Cushions •• Slings #USHIONS s 3LINGS s 5MBRELLAS Cushions Slings •• Re-powdercoating Re-powdercoating #USHIONS s 3LINGS s 5MBRELLAS

224082 224082 230192

224489 224489 230795

FURNITURE FURNITURE REPAIR REPAIR

SCREENING SCREENING

Reliable Marble Care, LLC – Stone Care Specialists

DECORATIVE SURFACES FOR: PATIOS, POOL DECKS, DRIVEWAYS, ENTRYWAYS PATIOS, POOL DECKS, DRIVEWAYS, ENTRYWAYS

•• POLY-PEBBLE POLY-PEBBLE // EPOXY EPOXY •• TEXTURED TEXTURED CONCRETE CONCRETE •• RESEAL •• INTERLOCKING RESEAL & & REPAIRS REPAIRS INTERLOCKING BRICK BRICK PAVERS PAVERS Free Serving Sarasota Free Serving Sarasota 355-1148 SARASOTA BRADENTON •• VENICE VENICE 355-1148 Estimates Since 1979 SARASOTA •• BRADENTON Estimates Since 1979 SARASOTA • BRADENTON • VENICE

DEPENDABLE BACKFLOWS DEPENDABLE & & ON ON TIME TIME BACKFLOWS 5508 MARINA DR., HOLMES 5508 MARINA DR., HOLMES BEACH BEACH •• OPEN OPEN SAT SAT

229789

ROW of NW GServiceMaster & ry Meadows ServiceMaster of NWviSarasota Sarasota &oThe The Meadows ce Direct

/54$//2 &52.)452% &52.)452% %80%243 %80%243 s s 777 777 0!4)/2%0!)23 0!4)/2%0!)23 .%4 .%4 /54$//2

INSURANCE INSURANCE

E-mail: jamerkt@comcast.net

INSTALLATION & CERTIFY

ESS Carpet, Cleaning SIN Carpet, Upholstery Upholstery and Tile Floor Cleaning BUFloor R Tile YOUand

941-504-0903

Office: 941.379.6302 Cell: 941.928.4325 www.yourveryownassistant.com

CHRISTIE’S CHRISTIE’S 778-3924

(941) 927-2128 927-2128 (941)

3675768-01 3675768-01 3675768-01

Judith A. Merkt

PLUMBING PLUMBING

KITCHEN/BATH KITCHEN/BATH REMODELING REMODELING

Licensed Licensed •• Insured Insured Lic. Licensed • Insured Lic. #25393 #25393 Lic. #25393

3 3 Document Document Creation Creation

Gift Certificates Available

595 Bay Bay Isles Isles Rd. Rd. Suite 215 215 KITCHEN/BATH REMODELING 595 Suite 941.554.8909 941.554.8909 || www.micinsurance.com www.micinsurance.com

INSTITUTE INSTITUTE of

3 3 Record Record Keeping Keeping

224495 224495 230797

TILE TILE // GROUT GROUT STAIN STAIN CONTROL CONTROL

De-cluttering De-cluttering

Organization 3 2IÀFH 7DVNV 3 Organization 3 2IÀFH 7DVNV 3 Special Special Projects Projects Take Control 3 +RXVHKROG 7DVNV 3 +RXVHKROG 7DVNV of Your Life‌ Gift Certificates Certificates Available Available Hire Gift

199923 199923

CARPET CARPET // UPHOSTERY UPHOSTERY ODOR ODOR CONTROL CONTROL

231732

ServiceMaster of NW•• GRANITE Sarasota & The Meadows TRAVERTINE •• SLATE •• TERRAZZO TRAVERTINE •• MARBLE MARBLE GRANITE SLATE TERRAZZO Restorative serving Cleaning and and Sealing //since Stain Removal Removal Proudly Sarasota 1987 Restorative Cleaning Sealing Stain Bill & Fonda Davies, Owners/Managers

3 3 3 3

199923

Carpet, Upholstery andCARE Tile Floor Cleaning SPINERGY STONE SOLUTIONS

PERSONAL SERVICES

of of your your insurance insurance needs. needs.

230190

CARPET CARPET CLEANING CLEANING

941-955-4888 or

Providing personal Judith Providing personal Judith A. A. Merkt Merkt classifieds.yourobserver.com and Office: 941.379.6302 and administrative administrative Office: 941.379.6302 support to Cell: 941.928.4325 support to Cell: 941.928.4325 individuals www.yourveryownassistant.com individuals and and www.yourveryownassistant.com small businesses.

E-mail: jamerkt@comcast.net small businesses.

E-mail: jamerkt@comcast.net

Mike Mailliard ~ Lacey Weaver Our teamHrabos of professionals professionals provides Danielle ~ Scott Hammersand Our team of provides Matthew Mailliard ~ Hannah Weaver superior service and expertise for superior service and expertise for all all

223758 223758

Fabrics Fabrics || Custom Custom Draperies Draperies || Pillows Pillows || Beddings Beddings Valances & & Cornices Cornices || Blinds Blinds || Shutters Shutters & Shades Shades Valances & (941) 927-2128 Upholstery Upholstery & & Slipcovers Slipcovers || Color Color Consultation Consultation || Motorized Motorized System System

Place Your Ad Quickly

all of your insurance needs.

(941) 879-6310 879-6310 (941)

224081 224081

Specialist Certified / Designer

863-669-6125

Take Control Control Take of of Your Your Life‌ Life‌ Hire Hire

224552 224552

2200 51st. St., Sarasota, FL 34234 E-mail: tepe@tepeuph.net www.tepeuph.com

231864

INSURANCE INSURANCE EXPERIENCE

230805

941-358-3335

BLINDS/WINDOW TREATMENTS Draperies • Furniture Upholstery • Slip Covers BLINDS/WINDOW TREATMENTS

230459

STUCCO REPAIR BY SCOTT

Retail Fabric Showroom

designingwindowsbyisabel@gmail.com CLEANING designingwindowsbyisabel@gmail.com www.designingwindowsbyisabel.com www.designingwindowsbyisabel.com

Great Service and Great Rates TPA TPA $80 $80 PIE PIE $70 $70 SRQ SRQ $35 $35 (Gratuities not not included.) included.)

(Gratuities 941-592-5972 941-592-5972

Painting/Wallpapering Painting/Wallpapering

224114 224114 230191

Cleaning

BLUE BLUE FISH FISH CLEANING CLEANING INC. INC. 941-705-3812.

941-705-3812.

Insured, Bonded.

Bonded. Affordable Affordable reliable reliable home home Insured, cleaning, $80, 2 cleaners, 2 hours. cleaning, $80, 2 cleaners, 2 hours.

YourObserver.com

INSURANCE INSURANCE

UP UP TO TO

105 110

STANDARD WINDOWS $ WINDOWS 25 STANDARD

INCLUDING INCLUDING SCREENS, SCREENS, TRACKS, TRACKS, MIRRORS MIRRORS & & FANS FANS

OFF + Additional $ 00 % 00 OFF + + Additional Additional $500 % SPECIAL 1 0 % $5 10 OFF SPECIAL www.sunsetwindowcleaningsrq.com For Senior Citizens For Senior Senior Citizens Citizens For

Call Tibor Tibor for for FREE FREE ESTIMATES ESTIMATES | | 941-284-5880 941-284-5880 Call

INSURANCE INSURANCE

SECUR-ALL INSURANCE AGENCY 510 BAY ISLES ROAD, SUITE 1 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL (INSIDE SUNTRUST BANK) 510 BAY ISLES ROAD, SUITE 1 • LONGBOAT KEY, FL (INSIDE SUNTRUST BANK) CHUBB, CHUBB, AIG, AIG, UNIVERSAL, UNIVERSAL, UNITED, UNITED, SAFECO, SAFECO, PROGRESSIVE, PROGRESSIVE, FLOOD. FLOOD. WE WE HAVE HAVE YOU YOU COVERED! COVERED!

YOUR CONNECTION to selling your service with success.

For more information, call 941-955-4888 or visit classifieds.yourobserver.com

223978 223978

941-383-3388 STOP BY AND MEET YOUR LOCAL AGENT, SANDRA CESHKER

24B

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017

new listings

Ranked #3 Team for Coldwell Banker in ALL of North America...!

$3,995,000

Aqualane Estates - Mainland 4BD/5.1BA | 6,052 SqFt

Ritz Carlton Tower Residence - Downtown Was $3,150,000 3BD/3.1BA | 3,659 SqFt Now $2,899,000

Sarabande - Downtown 2BD/2.1BA | 2,437 SqFt

Grand Bay V - Longboat Key 2BD/2BA | 1,276 SqFt

Longboat Key Towers - Longboat Key 2BD/2BA | 1,458 SqFt

Tangerine Bay – Longboat Key 2BR/2.1BA | 2,246 SqFt

Water Club I – Longboat Key 3BR/4BA | 3,045 SqFt

$657,000

$1,095,000

$1,659,000

www.ackermangroup.net

Grand Bay I – Longboat Key 3BR/3.5BA | 2,550 SqFt

Bay Isles - Longboat Key 4BD/3.1BA | 4,508 SqFt

Was $1,495,000 Now $1,349,000

$885,000

$1,195,000

$2,650,000

office@ackermangroup.net

$3,250,000

Bay Plaza - Downtown 2BD/2BA | 1,656 SqFt

1350 Main - Downtown 2BD/2BA | 1,597 SqFt

Beneva Oaks - Mainland 5BD/5.1BA | 6,206 SqFt

Casey Key - North Casey Key Vacant Land | 1.5 Acres

The Landings - Mainland 5BD/4.1BA | 4,282 SqFt

Was $885,000 Now $869,000

$989,000

$1,379,000

$2,750,000

Hammocks - Mainland 5BD/4BA | 4,035 SqFt

Grand Bay I - Longboat Key 3BD/3.1BA | 2,250 SqFt

Grand Bay III – Longboat Key 3BR/3.1BA | 2,950 SqFt

Casey Key - Mainland 4BR/5BA | 6,024 SqFt

$1,395,000

Was $696,000 Now $685,000

$995,000

$1,395,000

$4,450,000

941-387-1820

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

Owned and operated by NRT, LLC

227385

price change

Sapphire Shores - Bay Shore Road 5BD/7BA | 5,313 SqFt