Longboat Observer 4.14.22

LONGBOAT

Observer

Longboat Key’s weekly newspaper since 1978

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

Off-limits eggs.

PAGE 16 FREE • THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

VOLUME 44, NO. 36

YOUR TOWN

Greening up for spring Eco-friendly events, policies gain traction with residents, town leaders. PAGE 3

TAI CHI, MASTERED Paradise Center class follows along. PAGE 22 Courtesy photo

A swinging success Beachplace’s annual golf tournament was a swinging success, and not just for the winners on the links. With the proceeds from the March 7 event, the community donated $2,000 to All Faiths Food Bank in Sarasota.

Chairs Sam and Susie Luten organized the tournament, the 16th annual, at the Longboat Key Club.

Two years ago, the community organized the tournament as a fundraiser for the first time and donated to Save Our Seabirds. Last year, it donated $1,000 to All Faiths, and this year doubled its offering to the food bank. Donations came from players and residents in the complex.

Eric Garwood

Master Max Yan leads class participants through a series of motion forms that took them around The Paradise Center parking lot.

A+E Courtesy photo

Feline in the sand For an animal that purportedly doesn’t like water, Sammy the cat spent quite a while perilously near it. But the little guy was apparently blessed because even though he spent 22 days hiding under a dock, he was rescued on March 30.

Lynn Larson’s furry friend disappeared in early March, but luckily she had the neighborhood on her side.

Friends nearby spent the next three weeks biking the streets, calling desperately and putting up flyers. Nothing brought Sammy home until a neighbor heard him crying out under a dock in the canal.

After some wrangling and cajoling from his cat parents, Sammy came forward with his claws out. Although he lost a few pounds, he’s home and recuperating.

Chiefly speaking Town aims to close a fine loophole.

SEE PAGE 4

The journey from Cuba.

File photo

Limited parking on North Shore Road often leads to tickets.

INSIDE

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THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

Kiwanis learn demons in the details Michael Jordan discusses his most recent historical fiction thriller and what’s coming next.

ERIC GARWOOD MANAGING EDITOR

M

ichael Garey remembers the Kiwanis Club of Longboat Key’s most-recent guest speaker as a frequent lunchtime visitor to his Lazy Lobster restaurant. So frequent, in fact, that Garey wanted to thank him personally for his business one day.

“When one of the servers comes up at the end of his lunch, I say, ‘If he pays by credit, bring me the card so I can get his name,” Garey said.

“So the server comes up to me after lunch, hands me a credit card.

“I’m like, ‘Michael Jordan.’ I got it.”

Clearly the man wrapping up his midday meal at Garey’s Centre Shops restaurant was not the six-time NBA champion and MVP. Then again, that other Jordan was not the author of a spine-tingling historical-fiction crime thriller entitled “The Company of Demons,” which uses as its jumping-off point a series of grisly homicides committed in Cleveland in the 1930s.

So, last week, Garey, the president of the Longboat Key service club, and about 15 members and guests heard from Jordan about his book, his research and what’s coming next.

The 2018 book, which he said he started in his 30s and resumed later in life after an initial rejection from publishers, won a Silver Royal Palm Literary Award from the Florida Writers Association. A lawyer by training, Jordan said he isn’t a truecrime buff but rather a fan of wading through history with an eye toward how facts from the past can propel a fictional storyline.

“That’s part of the thing, the challenge to writing when you do historical fiction, because you get so much history,” he said. “I’m writing fic-

Eric Garwood

tion; I’m writing a novel, right? I’m not writing a history book. So you’re tempted to throw in everything you research and find out and put it in the book, and you have to pull yourself back.”

“The Company of Demons” focuses on the unsolved real-life case of The Torso Murderer in the 1930s. At the time, legendary crime fighter Eliot Ness held the position in Cleveland of public safety director, which Jordan said he used to his advantage, sending fire inspectors into a suspect’s home when there wasn’t enough evidence for a criminal search warrant.

“The Torso Killer did what is now more common for serial killers to do, and that’s taunt the public and taunt the police,” Jordan said. “He would

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send letters to them saying, ‘Eliot is incompetent. Catch me if you can.

I’m smarter than anybody.’”

Jordan’s book takes the unsolved nature of the crime and projects forward decades when a new crime evokes memories of the long-ago homicides.

“It is pretty horrific, and I’m not by nature attracted to serial killers; that’s not why I wrote the book,” he said “I wrote it because I was interested in the history of it. But when you dig into it, and I started to read the papers of the time and the documents that substantiate how brutal these murders were, you have to step away sometimes. I tried to put in the book enough that it’s frightening, but I left out plenty that would make you ill.”

Jordan said his next project is a historical thriller that focuses on the last days of World War II and the curious case of a German submarine intercepted off the Japanese coast by the U.S. Navy. The boat contained plans for advanced weapons and, some say, weapons-grade uranium.

Andrew Vac, Jim Larsen and Earl Larsen listen to Longboat Key author Michael Jordan’s presentation on his book, “The Company of Demons.”

THE WRITE STUFF

Meet at the Lazy Lobster at 8:30 a.m. Thursday, April 21, for a breakfast meeting with author Jon Dietz, who recently published his second novel. Dietz is a former newspaper reporter but changed careers to be an investigator for the Office of Public Defender in the 12th Judicial District. Breakfast is $15 for non-members.

Call 383-4415 to RSVP.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

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Photos by Eric Garwood

Before embarking on small boats, the volunteer crew pose for a team photo.

Clean & green

ELECTRIC VEHICLES WORKSHOP THIS WEEK

Sister Keys trash collection project is just another way Longboat watches out for the environment.

ERIC GARWOOD Volunteers Riley Plank, Owen Bahan, Liv Doura and Nicholas Cox from Sarasota High’s Sailor Bay club signal their disdain for invasive plant species.

MANAGING EDITOR

F

rom drawbridge to drawbridge and from the Gulf of Mexico to a 74-acre quartet of islands adjacent to Longboat Key, issues revolving around the environment are drawing the attention of residents and town leaders both on the sparkling waters of Sarasota Bay and inside Town Hall.

For confirmation, one only had to visit Mar Vista Dockside restaurant early last Saturday when about three dozen volunteers boarded a small flotilla heading into Sarasota Bay for a cleanup project on Sister Keys, work that would have likely been seen as a honey-do chore if limited to a backyard.

For about three hours, teens, kids, retirees and two members of the Town Commission crisscrossed shorelines, sandy pathways, dense mangroves and shin-deep shallows gathering up the refuse left behind by others. A floodlight bulb. An unopened can of Coors Light. A tattered American flag.

Sure, there was free lunch at the end, but clearly food was not the only motivation.

Gene Printz-Kopelson and his wife, Mindy, said this was their first time venturing out to Sister Keys, which the town purchased for preservation in 1992, but they have done similar volunteer projects alongside Puget Sound.

“We’re happy to do it,” PrintzKopelson said while standing along one pathway.

Besides their volunteerism, Longboat Key residents are on record about their love of things natural. In the town’s recently completed 2022 Citizen Survey, 95.6% of respon-

Volunteers gather near Longboat Key’s Linley Street Boat Ramp.

dents said they were satisfied or very satisfied with the town’s beaches.

Asked about Joan Durante Park, a mid-island nature preserve, 75.5% responded the same way. Quick Point Nature Preserve at the southern tip of the island didn’t draw the same strong response (49.3%), but it seemed to be hampered by low recognition. More than 59% said they were not familiar with the preserve, twice as many as were unfamiliar with Durante.

TURTLE SEASON COMING SOON

Tim Thurman, the president of Longboat Key Turtle Watch, recently thanked town commissioners for not only committing to the recently

Some of the boats drop their teams off on the north side of the island.

completed beach renourishment program but also for passing last year a new set of beach requirements for turtle-nesting season. The morestringent rules take effect on May 1, when the season begins.

“It’s a great benefit for sea turtles and to keep the public engaged with the proper things to do on the beach so they can enjoy the beautiful beaches but the turtles can nest there as well,” Thurman said.

In the 2021 season, 1,032 turtle nests were recorded on Longboat Key, down from 1,136 in 2020 and 1,342 in 2019, but up from the 2018 season, when 993 were spotted.

Thurman said the partnership between his organization, the town and the Longboat Key Garden Club continues to make possible the “Flip a Switch, Make a Move” campaign promoted in posters, door hangers and more. The campaign encourages beachfront residents to remember the role light pollution plays in turtle disorientations and the potential obstacles turtles face when beach furniture or other equipment is left on the sand overnight.

“We just want to ask the town to remain committed to assuring the past high levels of (turtle) disorientations . . . do in fact decrease as the new ordinances are put into effect and subsequently enforced,” he said.

SEAGRASS

Rusty Chinnis, chair of Suncoast Water Keepers, recently raised the issue of seagrass loss, seeking town help in spreading the word of a potentially dire situation in Sarasota Bay if action is not taken.

In 2021, the Southwest Florida Water Management District estimated about an 18% loss of seagrass in the estuary system, totaling about 2,300 acres, from the north end through Roberts Bay to the south.

Seagrass is considered a critical habitat for sea life and crucial for a variety of young fish.

“Guys who I have talked to who sometimes spend over 200 days a year on the water, that’s their job, that’s their livelihood, are reporting to me as high as 33%,” Chinnis said.

Chinnis said he was asking the town and its elected commission to be a proactive community in terms of promoting the health of the bay.

“One that addresses this, one that gets the word out to our citizens to be a model for these other communities,” he said. “I don’t think we really appreciate the potential downside to not only our quality of life, but also to the economy.”

Outreach and education is a good first step, Chinnis said in response

SEE MORE PHOTOS Check out a photo gallery of the cleanup effort on April 9 at Sister Keys by hovering your smartphone’s camera over the QR code and tapping the screen when prompted.

to a recent question from Commissioner Maureen Merrigan at a commission meeting.

“We need guidance from any kind of source we can get,” Mayor Ken Schneier said. “We want to help, and we want to do it in the right way.”

The town already bans lawn fertilizing during the summer rainy season to cut down on runoff of harmful agents into the bay. The town typically reaches out to its residents and commercial operators to alert them of the seasonal restrictions. Sarasota County recently broke ground on a more-advanced sewage treatment plant that is designed to reduce harmful discharges into the bay.

STILL TO COME

Here are several townwide initiatives in the works as part of an effort led by Carolyn Brown, of the town’s Support Services: n Groin tightening at New Pass to hold back more sand on beaches to the north n Working with Sarasota Bay Estuary program on shoreline restoration n Planning and permitting for a second sewer line from the town to the mainland n Planning to purchase in the 2023 fiscal year two to four electric vehicles and charging stations as part of the town’s normal vehicle replacement rotation n Planning for an energy audit in fiscal year 2023 n Adding questions about the green initiatives to the town’s annual citizen survey in 2023.

Sarasota County and the University of Florida Extension Office are sponsoring a workshop this week at Town Hall for people who want to learn more about electric vehicles and the infrastructure that supports them. The free event, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Thursday, April 14, will be led by Sara Kane, the county’s sustainability program supervisor. Kane’s presentation will cover the basics of electric vehicles, gas-electric hybrids and plug-in gas-electric hybrids.

She will also cover how to calculate return on investment and the availability of charging stations in Sarasota County. In the town’s 2022 Citizen Survey, a series of questions about electric vehicles was asked, including: Do you currently own an electric vehicle?

Yes, I own a full-electric vehicle: 5.5% No, I own a hybridelectric vehicle: 6% No: 88.5% If charging stations were available, would you plan on purchasing or leasing an electric vehicle in the necxt five years?

Yes: 32.6% No: 36.5% Unsure: 30.1% Are there currently charging stations or outlets for electric vehicles available in your home or residential community/ complex?

Yes: 16.7% No: 74.6% Unsure: 8.7% Is access to convenient charging stations or outlets a concern that might prevent you from purchasing an electric vehicle?

Yes: 51.1% No: 48.9%

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THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

FRIDAY, APRIL 1

NO BREAKAGE REQUIRED 2:45 p.m., 4000 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Citizen assist: The driver of a car inside of which two dogs, a cell phone and the ignition keys were locked asked an officer to break a window to solve the problem. The officer asked if a spare set was available and drove to the woman’s home in the 2500 block of GMD at her request to pick up her husband and the keys. The officer and husband returned to the retail store at which the car was parked, opened the door and all was well.

OFF THE ROAD 3:45 p.m., 2500 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Traffic hazard: An officer encountered an overheating vehicle that had stopped running in the southbound lane. The hood was up and the four-way emergency flashers were on. The officer helped the driver shift into neutral, and the vehicle was pushed to safety. Coworkers were contacted to bring additional coolant for the vehicle.

SATURDAY, APRIL 2

LOCKED UP TIGHT 12:20 a.m., 800 block of St. Judes Drive Citizen assist: A couple was found walking around a retail establishment that was near rental properties. The couple said they were locked out of their rental, and all the information on the rental was stored on a smartphone with a dead battery. The officer stayed with the couple until the locksmith they called arrived.

WHEN THE WIND BLOWS 6:20 p.m., 700 block of Spanish Drive Citizen assist: A caller notified police that materials left on his roof were blowing away in a strong wind.

Police informed the caller that the issue was a civil matter.

SUNDAY, APRIL 3

A LOT TO UNPACK HERE 1:20 p.m., New Pass Boating call: Police went to Overlook Park after a call about a boat that seemed out of the ordinary anchored nearby. An officer en-

SUNDAY, APRIL 3

FLASH CROWD 9:23 p.m., 4500 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Citizen assist: A caller to police reported people on the beach with flashlights. An officer explained that such activities were not prohibited outside of turtle-nesting season, and the town’s beach closing hour had not yet arrived. The caller said she appreciated the explanation and that she reported what she saw because she didn’t know what else to do.

Parking along North Shore Road is tightly controlled by signs.

Eric Garwood

Longboat aims to fix a fine mess with parking tickets Next month’s town vote will remove the police chief’s discretion to reduce penalties in the citation-review process.

countered an older-looking sailboat and spoke from shore to a man on board. The man said he was there to search with a metal detector for a ring reported lost in the area and that his vessel was fine. He added that if police were to get a subsequent call about an odd noise coming from his vessel, it would likely be his yellow-crested cockatoo, which he then went below and produced for the officer. The man made clear he had the proper navigation lights to remain anchored overnight.

ERIC GARWOOD MANAGING EDITOR

N

ot that anyone has successfully accomplished it, but asking for a parking fine to be reduced by the chief of police in Longboat Key won’t soon be a likely option.

And until May 2, when the Longboat Key Town Commission votes on the “surgical code change” a final time, the stratagem for asking Chief George Turner for permission to pay something other than $75, or up to $225 after 74 days has passed, isn’t going to be a winning move.

The little-known provision in town code, part of changes that in late 2020 raised the base parking fine from $30 and in 2021 set up residentonly parking in Longbeach Village, allowed the chief’s fine reduction authority under a review routinely done with all parking tickets.

Turner ran across the provision several weeks ago and brought it to the attention of the town staff.

“I am embarrassed to say I sat on

MONDAY, APRIL 4

GOING NOWHERE FAST 11:07 a.m., police headquarters Found property: A resident came to the police station to turn in a Ferrari key found on New Pass bridge. It was locked up for safekeeping.

TUESDAY, APRIL 5

GREENS KEEPING 6:05 a.m., 1000 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Noise complaint: A resident called police to alert them to earlymorning noise from golf course maintenance equipment. The officer explained that the town’s worknoise ordinance does not cover golf course machinery.

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this commission when we passed this ordinance, and I am disappointed in myself that we didn’t pick this up,” Commissioner B.J. Bishop said.

“Chief Turner, I apologize and thank God you caught it because I can’t think of a much more untenable and uncomfortable position to have a John Doe walk in and say, ‘Hey, I just got a $75 ticket. Can you drop it to $10?’”

Police still can nullify an improperly issued ticket, and the town’s code enforcement special magistrate will still hear appeals, though additional penalties can come with a negative outcome.

“Is this just parking, or are there other ones people can negotiate?

Asking for someone else, of course,” Vice Mayor Maureen Merrigan joked.

Town Attorney Maggie Mooney assured commissioners that accrued liens and fines for other code enforcement issues can still be reduced by the magistrate, but “in the parking, traffic context, this is it.”

Commissioners voted unanimously to advance the code edit to their May 2 meeting for final consideration.

“The chief does not want to be in that position, I don’t want him in that position, and we prefer not to have that discretion,” Town Manager Tom Harmer said.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

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Moving on up C

ranes, cement mixers, workers by the dozens and vertical progress are common sights now on the land soon to be home to the Residences at St. Regis Longboat Key Resort.

The 17.6 beachfront acres have undergone a rapid metamorphosis since permits to begin foundation work were finalized in February. Pilings have been formed on the north building, which will house the five-star hotel. At one point on Monday, six cement mixers were on the site at the same time, with more coming and going.

At the peak of construction, 850 workers are expected on-site, most bused in from an off-site staging area.

Meals are also provided on-site.

Unicorp National Development Inc. plans to develop 69 condo units and 166 hotel units along with restaurants and other public facilities, many open to the public. It’s been nearly three years since the buildings and other structures of the Colony resort were torn down on the land. Moss Construction Management is shepherding the project.

The company has set a tentative opening date of June 6, 2024, for the $800 million project. The roof is expected to go on the first building late this year.

—ERIC GARWOOD Photos by Eric Garwood

THIS WEEK: Work progresses on the St. Regis construction. This view looks southwest toward the hotel structure.

FEBRUARY (Above): The beginning of foundation work MARCH (Left): The arrival of heavy equipment

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THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

Listening to the land Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast aims to protect water and green space for decades to come.

ERIC GARWOOD MANAGING EDITOR

C

hristine Johnson sees a certain connection between people and sensitive lands, one that might not be immediately apparent to everyone who owns rugged shoes, a pair of binoculars or a fly-fishing rig.

Make no mistake. Johnson, the president of the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast, sees those people, too.

But it’s children who are often on her mind, many of whom have never experienced the land as weekend hikers, bird-watchers or anglers do.

Her organization, itself based at a free and open-to-the-public former estate alongside Little Sarasota Bay in Osprey, for years dedicated itself to setting aside land from development, something less than two dozen similar organizations statewide do.

But with its Next Gen Conservation initiative, the foundation and its supporters have branched off a sec-

ond prong to support the first: introducing kids to what nature can offer.

“We are creating the next generation of conservationists in this program, but the feel-good about it is we have stories that will make you well up with tears to hear kids say, ‘I’ve never had my feet in the sand,’” she said. “I’ve never been to the beach; I don’t see anybody here that looks like me. I don’t know how to fish.

And, so, we’re teaching them to fish, we’re teaching them to kayak, we’re taking them out to Myakka. That’s really, really rewarding.”

Working with youth groups such as Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota, Girls Inc. and more, the foundation since 2017 has programs for kids to not only experience the outdoors but also see the basics of land preservation and career options that might have been invisible to them.

Johnson said she looks at a similar program in Asheville, North Carolina, as a model. She said that organization has developed college scholarships for natural-science careers in addition to getting children outside to learn about the land.

“We’re not there yet, but we are having these kids ask Sabrina (Cummings), who heads up the youth program, ‘Wait a minute, you get to do this every day?’” Johnson said. “‘You’re outside every day. What did you do? How did you get here?’”

“We are creating the next generation of conservationists in this program, but the feel-good about it is we have stories that will make you well up with tears to hear kids say, ‘I’ve never had my feet in the sand.’”

— Christine Johnson

Photos by Eric Garwood

Christine Johnson speaks to a gathering of stakeholders and public officials at the groundbreaking for the renovation of Sarasota’s Bobby Jones Golf Course. A nature park under the auspices of a conservation easement is part of the reimagined property plans.

‘FOREVER’

Since it began in 2003 in a small office over a carpet store on U.S. 41, not far from its current home in Osprey’s Bay Preserve, the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast has helped set aside about 18,000 acres in Charlotte, Lee, Collier, Manatee and Sarasota counties. Initially, the focus was on coastal areas, but of late the foundation has turned its attention inland, seeking to insulate watershed-adjacent lands from development and link preserved lands with the goal of protecting drinking water, ensuring biodiversity and maintaining outdoor recreational opportunities.

In Florida, 21 similar nonprofit organizations exist. The foundation and five others are accredited under a rigid set of criteria that must be renewed every five years.

The notion of leaving a legacy of

WHAT’S NEXT? As development moves east, away from the already developed coast, so does the attention of organizations such as Johnson’s. Upland rivers and watersheds are critical to downstream populations in the five counties in which the foundation works.

Linking lands and filling in gaps to create connectivity is one of the organization’s foundational goals, which Johnson said becomes more important in the decades to come.

“We are beginning to dip our toe into the counties just east of those five, she said. “Why? Because nobody else is. And because of quickening the pace of conservation, because real estate is quickening its pace, everything is moving east. There isn’t any more land west and people are truly concerned about global warming and sea level rise. So we are seeing a lot more development in those inland counties.’’

Town of Longboat Key

ATTENTION VOLUNTEERS The Town of Longboat Key is accepting application for appointment to the The Town of Longboat Key is accepting applications following boards and committees:

EST. 2002

for appointment to the following Planning and Zoning Board committees: Zoning Board of Adjustment

boards

and

Planning Zoning Board Citizens Tax and Oversight Committee MPO Citizens Advisory Network Zoning Board of Adjustment Sarasota County Bicycle/Pedestrian/Trail Citizens Tax Oversight Advisory Committee Committee Citizens’ OversightAdvisory Committee forNetwork Public MPO Citizens School Facility Planning Sarasota County Bicycle/Pedestrian/Trail All applications must be submitted to the Office of the Town Clerk by 12:00 Advisory Committee p.m. on April 22, 2022. All applicants must be registered voters of the Citizens’ Oversight Committee for Public Town of Longboat Key. Late applications may not be accepted.

Any memSchool Facility Planning ber who fails to attend two of three consecutive scheduled and called reg-

ular meetings without cause, and without prior approval of the chairman All automatically applicationsforfeit must submitted Office of the shall his be appointment, andtothethe Town Commission Town Clerk byvacancy.

12:00 p.m. on April 22, 2022. All shall promptly fill the

applicants must be registered voters of the Town of

All members of the Planning and Zoning Board & Zoning Board of AdjustLongboat Key. Late applications may not be accepted. ment are required to file a financial disclosure form within 30 days after Any member who fails to attend of three appointment and annually thereafter for thetwo duration of the consecutive appointment scheduled and called regular meetings without cause, and as required by Florida Statues Chapter 112.

Thank You, Sarasota,

without prior approval of the chairman shall automatically

The Town Commission may schedule a Meet and Greet with applicants at hisPlease appointment, a forfeit later date. call the Officeand of thethe TownTown Clerk atCommission 941-316-1999 forshall an promptly fill the vacancy. application or if you have any questions. Applications may be submitted to: All members of the Planning and Zoning Board & Zoning

for generously supporting the largest profamily gathering in Southwest Florida!

Sarasota Medical Pregnancy Center’s 9th Annual Life Is Beautiful! benefit dinner hosted over 800 guests and raised over $700,000.

Board ofTown Adjustment are– Office required to file of Longboat Key of the Town Clerk a financial 501 Bay Roadafter appointment and disclosure form within 30Isles days Longboat Key FL 34228 annually thereafter for the duration of the appointment as required by Florida Statues Chapter 112.

Additional Volunteer Opportunity:

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We are proud to serve our community’s at-risk and underserved women who find themselves in an unplanned or unprepared pregnancy.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

a land saved forever is often the goal of a private owner or a government entity that reaches out to the foundation. Either way, the organization works to help preserve green space for public use out of reach of future development plans.

“When we’re talking about land conservation, the landowner has rights,” Johnson said. “And one of those rights is that they can conserve their land in perpetuity with a land trust. And why is it in perpetuity with a land trust and not elsewhere because we have our own code in the IRS that says when we acquire land with a conservation easement, it must be forever.”

7

THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

HOW IT WORKS

It often starts with an idea and a conversation. Johnson said the typical way her organization had gotten involved in a project is a simple chat with a landowner who, for one reason or another, wants to see property set aside from development.

She said she’s a firm believer that not all land needs to be saved. But, she said, in the case of a recent transaction, the conversation about a parcel on the east end of Fruitville Road just made sense.

She said the owner was situated between county land and land already preserved by the foundation.

He wanted to sell, and soon, but the county was months away. Developers were interested, too.

“We stepped in and bought it,” Johnson said. “And then we turned around and said to the county, ‘OK, now we own it. Do you want buy it from us?’ And they did. So that’s a new way of doing it. The traditional way is like sitting at the kitchen table with the landowner. This now, we are starting to work with government agencies in a more creative way.”

“Quickening the pace of conservation,” is a trend tracking with the real estate market in the land-conservation world made possible with flexible dollars in a fund that can be repaid when, as in this case, the county fulfills its agreement to ultimately buy the land.

SAVING BOBBY JONES

Coastal lands have long been the foundation’s focus, which recently began looking inland, as well.

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The foundation has found its way into the headlines recently through its participation in the city of Sarasota’s preservation of the Bobby Jones Golf Course property, the “re-wilding” of three of four county-owned parcels near Celery Fields, the addition in 2012 of about 150 acres originally slated for residential development into Robinson Preserve in Manatee County and other projects.

Throughout its work, the word “perpetuity” pops up with more relevance than simply an idea.

Using the Bobby Jones land as an example, a conservation easement agreement between the foundation and the city is a binding pact. The idea that through a series of legal criteria and in-person monitoring, the land remains city property but must remain green and open to the public despite what future generations of

“The traditional way is like sitting at the kitchen table with the landowner. This now, we are starting to work with government agencies in a more creative way.”

Parcels near inland water sources are also a focus for preservation.

— Christine Johnson

elected officials might favor.

“So for instance, Bobby Jones, $65,000 we need to have deposited into our endowment specifically for Jones to pay the insurance, to pay the staff in perpetuity, to protect that conservation easement,” Johnson said.

As city leaders considered what do to about its municipal golf course land, the idea dawned that a conservation easement might be the right move. The city could focus on the golf course and the foundation could focus on setting aside dozens of acres as a nature park while raising money for its conversion into a park.

Through a series of public workshops, a vision for the property materialized, she said.

“So that’s how it starts, whether it’s a private landowner or a municipality, what is the end result that we’re trying to get to?” she said “And then what tools in our toolbox can we use to make that happen?”

Ultimately, city commissioners in January approved sweeping plans for the golf facility, approving a plan to reset the design of the course to a path drawn by famed golf architect Donald Ross in 1924. They also approved an agreement with the foundation to hold the 261 acres as a conservation easement forever.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

OPINION / OUR VIEW

LONGBOAT

Proposed state budget makes crucial fix to pensions Legislature increases employer contributions to retirement plans to make them more sustainable for the retirement system and retirees.

CONTRIBUTION RATES FOR STATE-RUN PRIMARY DEFINED CONTRIBUTION RETIREMENT PLANS Rates displayed for Florida FRS are for the Regular Class, which includes most members.

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

Friedrich Hayek

“Road to Serfdom,” 1944 President and Publisher / Emily Walsh, EWalsh@YourObserver.com Executive Editor and COO / Kat Hughes, KHughes@YourObserver.com Managing Editor / Eric Garwood, EGarwood@YourObserver.com Staff Writers / Nat Kaemmerer, NKaemmerer@YourObserver.com Digital & Engagement Editor / Kaelyn Adix, KAdix@YourObserver.com Copy Editor / Shawn Candela, SCandela@YourObserver.com Editorial Designers / Melissa Leduc, MLeduc@YourObserver.com; José Valle, JValle@YourObserver.com A+E Editor / Spencer Fordin, SFordin@YourObserver.com Black Tie Editor / Harry Sayer, HSayer@YourObserver.com

ADRIAN MOORE CONTRIBUTOR

G

ov. Ron DeSantis is set to sign the annual state budget bill any day. One bright spot within the bill is the fixes it presents for the state worker retirement system.

The Florida Retirement System (FRS) has been in trouble for years.

Inadequate contributions built up $30 billion in debt, putting workers’ retirement security and taxpayers’ wallets at risk. While legislative reforms in recent years helped stop the bleeding, they created new challenges. Now, those challenges are being tackled.

The budget approved by the Florida Legislature would improve the defined contribution retirement benefit provided to all recent state workers. When created, the default defined contribution retirement plan provided the worst benefit among all such state-run retirement plans in the nation. The changes found in the budget help by giving a 3% benefit increase to all active plan members, creating a more sustainable retirement benefit while reducing a big risk to taxpayers. Over 180,000 educators, administrators, and other government workers are slated to receive the additional 3%, effective July of 2022.

In combination with previous reforms, the new rules in the budget make Florida a leader in providing attractive, choice-based, affordable benefits to an increasingly flexible and diverse workforce. The change also improves the footing of the state’s defined contribution plan, which plays a critical role in addressing the financial risks borne by public employers and taxpayers.

These changes address a longstanding problem.

THE PROBLEM

Originally adopted during the 2000 legislative session as an alternative option to the state’s traditional defined benefit pension, the state defined contribution plan — Florida Retirement System Investment Plan (FRS IP )— has taken on increasing importance in Florida state and local government administration and now serves as the state’s primary vehicle for providing retirement security to most public workers.

With so many teachers and public employees dependent on the FRS IP as a means to support retirement, it is crucial that the default retirement plan provide sufficient contributions to allow workers to make continuous progress toward saving for a healthy and comfort-

able post-employment lifestyle.

Financial advisors and industry experts typically recommend total contributions into a plan like the FRS IP should total at least 10% of an employee’s pay (many even prefer 12% to 15% to ensure benefit adequacy) for the eventual benefits to be sufficient for retirement.

For over two decades, Florida’s public employers at the state and local levels were required to contribute 3.3% of an employee’s salary to their FRS IP account for the largest grouping of employees (Regular Class), which includes teachers and most civilian government employees. Employees in turn contributed a fixed 3% of their pay to their FRS IP account to bring the historic savings rate of FRS IP members to 6.3%, far below industry standards.

This combination places Florida well below other states who offer defined contribution plans, further highlighting the need to address the funding flowing into the IP (see Table).

Insufficient contributions to a public retirement plan should be a major concern for employees, policymakers, and taxpayers alike. A generation of retirees inadequately prepared for retirement creates a risk of increased reliance on the state’s social safety net. This shortcoming also creates more immediate challenges that can impact many stakeholders. Benefits below industry standards and below those available in the private sector can significantly hinder the state’s ability to compete for talent, especially in areas like information technology and data security, to ensure the continued delivery of quality public services to Floridians THE REFORM

For FRS Investment Plan members, the reforms in the budget increases the employer contribution to employee IP accounts by 3% of payroll over current levels and covers all membership classes. All present and future members of the FRS IP will see an equal increase. The largest grouping of employees —Regular Class (which includes teachers and most non-public safety work-

ers) — will see the employer rates into their IP accounts rise from 3.3% of pay to 6.3%. In combination with their own 3% contribution, which will remain unchanged, the total into the IP plan for Regular Class members will now be 9.3%.

Those in the Special Risk Class, which includes public safety officers, will see their total contributions rise from 14% to 17%.

According to the House’s fiscal analysis of the budget, the 3% increase of employer contributions into the FRS IP is estimated to require an additional $249 million in the first year from all state and local government employers. These changes would move the state into a more competitive position by providing employees more resources to meet their retirement needs. The increased amount employers will contribute to their employees’ FRS IP accounts comes on the heels of lawmakers also agreeing to 5.38% across the board pay increases for public employees. For those participating in the FRS Investment Plan, this will bring the total increase in compensation to more than 8%.

States around the country are scrambling to recruit employees.

These changes will make Florida a more competitive option for new workers, especially highly skilled technical professionals the state expects it will need in the future.

MORE WORK TO DO

Florida policymakers and those involved in this reform process deserve credit. But this should not be the end of thoughtful improvements to the state’s retirement system. To build on this session’s success and remain competitive with the private sector, stakeholders should continue searching for ways the FRS IP can better serve public employees. There are several clear opportunities: First, is setting some clear objectives. The Florida Retirement System as a whole is governed by a set of objectives, but the nature of its two retirement options presents an opportunity for additional mission clarity and transparency.

Specific language delineating new

objectives, such as lifetime income and retirement security, could help communicate the goals of the plan to new and existing public workers.

Second, improve the investment mix. Well-designed plans like the FRS IP should also offer the correct age-appropriate investment mix.

This is generally accomplished by using target date funds that adjust investment risk to the employee’s retirement horizon. Given the serious role these funds play in the lives of public workers and their families, protecting the value of a member’s FRS IP account from market fluctuations as the worker nears retirement should be a high priority.

Providing annuities to improve members’ retirement security has long been an established practice in the FRS IP but could still be improved. Offering annuitization at retirement allows retirees to use their accrued retirement funds to buy a stream of guaranteed income.

Despite a lifetime annuity option being available to members already, distribution choices offered by the FRS IP are limited. Expanding those offerings to include deferred annuities could present an opportunity to further improve this offering.

Third, budget reform would bring total contributions nearly, but not quite, to the 10% minimum standard set by industry experts.

Despite the prudent dedication of funds to address this pressing issue, Florida will still be below all other states in total contributions for most members of the FRS IP. There is still room for improvement in this regard, and it may be prudent to consider ways to increase the fixed employee contribution toward their own retirement. Lawmakers should recognize that with future efforts, they can build upon the benefits that will come from this latest legislation.

We should all appreciate the pension system reforms in the proposed state budget and encourage the governor and state legislature to keep up the good work.

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

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

The police are often called the gatekeepers of the community because they are typically the first ones on the scene when there’s an issue, problem, or a crime has been committed. They wear many hats and have lots of discretion when it comes to how they handle a situation or person.

This is something that Officer Gregory Tillman knows very well, and my guess is that he does on a regular basis. In addition to answering police calls, going out into the community and addressing citizens complaints, Tillman recognizes that one of his biggest jobs is working with the community.

As a retired police lieutenant of 32 years, serving in all aspects of police service delivery, I can certainly recognize when police officers go above and beyond the call of duty for the communities they serve every day. They’re not just saving lives out there, they’re performing small acts of kindness that can make a big impact. It’s these noble officers that don’t often get the accolades they deserve.

On Wednesday, April 6, my partner was broken down with a flat tire on Gulf of Mexico Drive, a late afternoon that lasted well into the darkness of night waiting for repair service that never came.

Officer Tillman was exemplary in

his professional manner in which he cared and comforted her with diligent checks throughout the process until the repair issues were resolved and she was safely on her way.

I remain extremely grateful and will long remember Officer Tillman’s expression of kindness to my family.

BOB ROSSI LONGBOAT KEY

Plan’s intent is to best serve residents In your April 7 edition you saw fit to publish a letter to repeat an opinion that I and another former commissioner “intended to undermine the work of the Commission on the Town Center.” My wife and I have both been strong proponents of a Town Center since well before we each served five years as commissioners. Our intent has always been to create a Town Center that would best serve LBK’s residents and guests.

I approve all the work done to date at the Town Center, including the proposed outdoor arch. However, it is no secret that aside from restaurants, there are no indoor evening destinations on Longboat Key. A large mixeduse space that might be adapted on occasion for entertainment

EDWARD ZUNZ LONGBOAT KEY

There’s a lot to question about traffic I would like to respond to the article that appeared in last week’s newspaper regarding the study done on how to address our traffic issues. I commend the town for acknowledging that there is a problem and wanting to do something about it, but I was disappointed with most of the initial response from the firm that was commissioned.

Either they were not instructed properly by the town what the purpose of the study was, or they chose to ignore the situation as it exists, or they have no plausible solutions to the real traffic issues.

Seeing the photos of proposed islands of landscape on GMD, while lovely to look at, begs the question, “How does this do anything to solve the existing traffic problems?”

The headline of your article reads: “Survey Results: Traffic.”

I am willing to bet there were few if any comments in the survey choosing landscaping as a solution.

Landscaping is expensive…. expensive to purchase, install

continuous sidewalk on one side, where do pedestrians or bikers go?

Do they cross the road, creating another issue? Would the solution to that problem be to install more pedestrian crosswalks?

How would that solve our traffic problems?

Let’s not create new problems while trying to solve existing ones.

I agree that Country Club Shores needs a turn lane, as do several other spots along the road. There was no mention of the light at the Key Club, either.

Cars traveling toward St. Armands Circle begin to back up there. Is it possible to just get a good read on how wide we can make the entire length of GMD and see what we have to work with in regards to that space? We can then determine what we can and can’t do without complicating the project with more landscape, more crosswalks and a lower speed limit.

Finally, thank you for not giving permission to the VEO scooters and bicycle kiosks on the Key. We can see them strewn on many street corners now throughout St. Armands and Sarasota. Hopefully few will venture onto the Key to explore, as that would exacerbate the pedestrian/ bicycle problems we have. Fingers crossed, the St. Regis will not decide to add this feature to their resort when they open, or at least by then maybe the town will have a solution that can accommodate all.

9

D. PATTERSON LONGBOAT KEY

BE HEARD

Surely you have an opinion on a town issue. Let us hear it through a letter to the editor. Email them to Managing Editor Eric Garwood at egarwood@yourobserver.com. Be sure to include your name and where you live.

Congratulations to Gary S. Brochin

Managing Director/Investments Portfolio Manager – Solutions Program Sarasota, Florida | Atlanta, Georgia for being named to

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380019-1

Police officer went above and beyond

and maintain. Because there is no parking along the sides of GMD, would you close off one traffic lane to install and maintain it? Or, would you have the trucks park in other overflowing parking lots like Publix or beach access and put a golf cart on the back with a trailer and drive the golf cart at 15 mph among the cars to tend to the landscaped islands? How does that improve traffic flow?

And what about water during times of drought? Do you bring in a water buffalo? Ever see how traffic quickly backs up behind the garbage trucks? Has anyone thought about the debris that trees and shrubs create? A fallen palm frond or coconuts from the palms could cause accidents Do we want drivers stopping on the road to remove landscape material? How about the debris that collects from flowering shrubs and trees? Do we stop traffic to sweep that up?

We already know that the trolley that used to be on the Key slowed traffic, so why would maintenance vehicles be any different? Also, has anyone considered how landscaped islands might affect drivers’ visibility as they are coming out of side business and streets? Right now, there is a clear view for quite a distance. Seems to me that instead of landscape in the center of GMD, putting in left/ right turn lanes periodically where needed would be better use of our tax dollars and create a safer environment for our residents And how would dropping the speed limit to 35 mph help traffic?

It is imperative that we maximize the space that we do have with vehicular traffic, pedestrians and bicyclists in mind.

We have the recreational bicyclists, the bicycle clubs and those who ride those recumbent bikes that most drivers cannot see despite the tiny flag that flies from one corner of their low-lying bicycles.

I have heard others say that one sidewalk for pedestrians and the other for bicyclists would be great. But reading the fine print, the article states that sidewalks on the east side will be put in where possible. So, if there is no

THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

LETTERS

File photo

Officer Gregory Tillman joined the Longboat Key Police Department in 2019.

has been under commission discussion for years. If the current commission approves, I believe the public would be better served by an indoor theater specifically designed and equipped to attract professional performers on a regular basis. It could be a small building or a separate section of a larger building. Every commissioner has received a copy of the details and reasons for such a facility. The Zunz and Spoll families each pledged $150,000 toward financing that type of theater. Our obvious intent is to create a facility that we believe to be in the best interest of our residents and guests. We encourage them to get involved, learn more and express their own preferences.

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

NATURE TALKS AND WALKS FOR EARTH DAY F R I D AY, A P R I L 2 2 , 1 1 A . M . – 3 P. M . at L O N G B OAT I S L A N D C H A P E L 6200 GULF OF MEXICO DR., L O N G B OAT K E Y Courtesy photo

Selby construction goes vertical

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ERIC GARWOOD MANAGING EDITOR

M

arie Selby Botanical Gardens last week launched in-earnest construction of the downtown site’s first phase of redevelopment.

Vertical work is now underway at the site bounded by Palm Avenue, Orange Avenue and Mound Street on the Living Energy Access Facility, a new building designed to serve several functions, including parking, a gift and plant shop and a new restaurant. The building will be topped with a 50,000-square-foot solar array, according to a release from Selby Gardens last week.

Additionally, a new visitor welcome center is planned in the $51.6 million first phase, along with a new plant research center featuring a research library and a herbarium, along with new garden features, the restoration of a pedestrian mall along Palm Avenue and a multiuse recreational trail spur that will link with the city’s network.

The LEAF building and other components are the first in a threephase, $92 million master plan that will redevelop Selby Gardens.

“This project is truly innovative and transformational — for Selby Gardens and for Sarasota —

as our downtown Sarasota campus becomes the first net-positive energy botanical garden complex in the world,” said President and CEO Jennifer Rominiecki in a prepared statement. “With the ribbon-cutting for phase one less than 17 months away, our donors will see the impact of their philanthropy in real time. We are so grateful to our loyal supporters and many other partners for making this important milestone possible.”

Selby Gardens said about $5 milllion remains to be raised of the initial $51.6 million for the first phase, which represents more than half of the overall project. Fundraising for that interim milestone is underway with a dollar-for-dollar match from several Selby Gardens donors.

Phase one is expected to be ready to open by summer 2023.

According to Selby Gardens, the second phase plans to build a hurricane-resilient greenhouse complex to house Selby Gardens’ worldrenowned plant collection as well as a learning pavilion and new indoor and outdoor classroom space.

The third phase includes restoration of the campus’ two major historical buildings, improvement of all walking paths and renovations to seawalls and dock facilities.

Phase one work is bounded by Palm Avenue (top), Orange Avenue (bottom) and Mound Street.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

County OKs $2.5 million in ARPA funds toward mental health The new Behavioral Health Advisory Council will be Sarasota County’s resource for information and funding on mental health, homelessness and welfare.

BLAKE FUSSELL STAFF WRITER

T

he Sarasota County Commission last week approved the creation of the Behavioral Health Advisory Council and the use of $2.5 million in American Rescue Plan Act money to improve mental health services. In the same week, Sarasota Memorial Hospital began construction on a new mental health facility.

The approval followed the commissioners’ acceptance of the Mental Health Task Force report in January.

Commissioners questioned the governance and funding for the services recommended in the report, which Health and Human Services Director Chuck Henry addressed on March 29.

“A behavioral health advisory council would act as a conduit for public information and input to be given back to the board,” Henry said. “It would also provide advice and funding recommendations to the board.”

With the creation of the council, mental health services will have dedicated funding and resources. This was made possible by the commission’s prior approval to create the Sarasota Behavioral Health Special District.

“The behavioral health advisory council would review the mental health needs of residents,” Henry said. “They would evaluate the status and sufficiency of the services provided by the county, identify emerging needs and changes, develop strategic initiatives and look for opportunities for braided funding.”

The council will consist of nine members, including an insurance administrator and representatives of Central Florida Behavioral Health,

File photos

Above: Health and Human Services Director Chuck Henry said alternative funding sources will be sought by 2026. Right: A rendering of the BHP exterior

Sarasota County School District and a local foundation.

January’s Mental Health Task Force Report recommended 44 projects regarding mental health needs and 17 projects that could be implemented with $6.5 million. For now, the top 13 priorities in the report will be worked toward through a $2.5 million allotment from American Rescue Plan federal funds through 2025.

“In 2026, we would have to rely on general funds or other available funds over time,” Henry said. “It’s fiscal year 2026 where we’d have a concern on how to continue this going on.”

County Commissioner Christian Ziegler was concerned about what would happen if citizens became reliant on programs after ARPA funds are exhausted in 2026. Henry suggested another evaluation of the programs in late 2025 to manage that concern on a per-program basis.

Commissioner Nancy Detert said she was confident a long-term fund-

ing solution will be found.

“We are dealing with money from the federal government the likes we’ve never seen because of COVID,” Detert said. “Considering the board will change, the world will change, all we can do is deal with the reality of today. … Mental health and substance abuse have been ongoing problems.

“Who knows how many kids we’re going to have that will have issues from being (quarantined) and having their lives so changed. With that said, I’m grateful for the funds we’ve received, and I’m happy spending it on mental health.”

Commissioner Mike Moran brought up the concern of duplicate services since Sarasota Memorial Hospital began construction on the new Cornell Family Behavioral Health Pavillion, which will replace the Bayside Center for Behavioral Health.

The Cornell Family Behavioral Health Pavillion will provide services for many demographics for a

“A behavioral health advisory council would act as a conduit for public information and input to be given back to the board.”

— Chuck Henry

variety of behavioral health issues.

It was partially funded with a $10 million donation from Target CEO Brian Cornell.

“My question was, ‘Is Sarasota (Memorial) Hospital putting millions of dollars in a mental health facility an opportunity or a threat?’”

Moran said. “I’m not saying that isn’t fabulous. I’m just saying we need an advisory board to give us guidance on this. I’ll happily move this (creating an advisory council) forward.”

Henry said that the Mental Health Task Force has evaluated what services are offered in each part of the county, which will be taken into account as the process moves forward.

The Behavioral Health Advisory Council and the funds gathered through ARPA will be used toward projects in the Mental Health Task Force Report. Among the highest priorities in the report were additional crisis response and mobile crisis response units, which could provide services on an immediate, 24-hour basis.

The report also showed an increased need in treatment and counseling. The priorities in that category include expanding trauma treatment, increasing psychiatric outpatient capacity, therapeutic group homes for older youth and a specialty care service for high-risk youth.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

Residents, retail tenants of Sarasota tower await answers A major project to repair The 101 Condominium’s parking garage will have an effect, but at what level remains unknown.

JUST THE OTHER DAY IN LONGBOAT KEY…

LOUIS LLOVIO BUSINESS OBSERVER

Residents and retail tenants at the former Dolphin Tower in Sarasota, once evacuated for years because of structural problems, have been waiting the past few weeks to learn how repairs to the building’s parking garage will affect them.

The building association’s president expected to hear from engineers on the project April 1 and again in the week of April 4. As of April 11, word on how the work will be scheduled and what will happen to residents and retail tenants had not come. The 15-story tower, now known as The 101 Condominium, is in downtown Sarasota, at 101 S. Gulfstream Ave. “The contractor is promising they will give us a revised shoring plan by the end of the day tomorrow. That will give us the impact on the commercial unit owner and her tenants,” Jim Toale, the association’s president, wrote in an email to the Business Observer April 7.

In an email the following day, Toale deferred to the contractor, R.L. James, for further questions on timing. Gary Wasser, partner and vice president of estimating and sales at Fort Myers-based R.L. James, said in an April 11 email the company is still finalizing the plans and cannot share information until discussing it with the client, the building association board. He adds in the note that he might be “better prepared to comment” the week of April 18.

The uncertainty is making an already stressful situation even more stressful. This is especially true for retail tenants along a strip at the rear of the tower on Palm Avenue. They’ve been waiting since at least mid-March to hear what the work will entail and what it will mean for their shops.

File photo

Dolphin Tower was evacuated in 2010, and repair work began in 2014.

The great fear is having to move.

Some tenants say a disruption, short or long term, could be costly, and there’s also fear the businesses won’t survive.

As for residents, the last time they had to leave for structural repairs the building was closed for several years.

Toale, in a March email, told the Business Observer that “It is obvious that there will be an impact to our residents, the commercial unit’s owner and her tenants.”

The hope, of course, is that the work can be done in such a way as to minimize disruption.

This is not the first time the building has been faced with such a situation. Built in the early 1970s, the Dolphin Tower, as it was then known, was shut down in 2010 after major structural issues were discovered

on the fourth floor. Residents were forced to evacuate, and the building remained closed for several years.

According to published reports at the time, within a month of discovery the problem was so severe it could have led to a collapse, similar to what happened to the 12-story Champlain Tower South in Surfside last year.

The problem this time is in the building’s three-story parking garage, which has been closed for repairs since at least mid-March.

The current project, according to the association, will strengthen the connections between some of the columns in the garage and the parking decks.

The fix involves supporting the parking decks around the columns requiring corrective work with temporary supports called shoring,

which is used to support a building to prevent collapse.

The issue was first discovered during a structural strengthening project eight years ago. An engineer at that time found the connection between some of the columns and the parking deck was not strong enough. The engineer did not place urgency on correcting the condition, the association says.

The design to correct the issue was completed two years ago, and a special assessment to complete the work was approved in November 2020.

Keeping a close eye on what’s happening at the building is the city of Sarasota. A city spokeswoman says “the engineer of record is monitoring the project and keeping the city informed.”

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Last week at the annual Goals and Objectives Town Commission workshop, David Lapovsky of the Federation of Longboat Key Condominiums urged commissioners to consider how structural inspections in town could be enacted in lieu of state legislation.

On June 24, 2021, 98 people were killed in Sunrise when Champlain Towers South collapsed. The incident prompted widespread concern, especially in coastal areas, about the safety of older, high-rise buildings. Several buildings match that description on Longboat Key, particularly on the south end of the island.

“We’re baffled why the state Legislature didn’t take any action to do something statewide about structural integrity,’’ Lapovsky said. “And we support any efforts the town can undertake to require the inspection of buildings over three stories tall that are 20 or more years old. This is an urgent need. We don’t want to become the next headline, and I don’t think we will, but we can’t take that risk.”

Lapovsky said the federation hoped the town could one day be the repository of information on condos that have passed inspections. Town Manager Tom Harmer said the town has worked on researching what other towns and cities have done and has scheduled discussions with commissioners later this spring.

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Photos by Eric Garwood

Library goes buy the book

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The volunteer-run library’s only sources of income are memberships and the book sales, which it conducts several times a year. A

team of volunteers staffed Friday’s sale, which attracted snowbirds and year-round residents.

The library is open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday. Summer hours begin May 1, and the library will operate from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays.

Books were available indoors and out, and customers steadily came by.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

WILD FLORIDA An exploration beyond the pavement.

Limpkins learn to thrive

I

t is springtime in wild Florida: Delicate native flowers are popping up, seemingly everywhere, as are wildlife babies, including adorable, longlegged limpkin chicks.

Limpkins are named for the way they seem to limp while walking across uneven wetlands. Because they are easy to catch or shoot, these loquacious birds were nearly extirpated from Florida by hunting. Laws and conservation efforts prevented it from happening, and their population recovered.

But with nearly half of Florida’s wetlands lost during the last century from development and wetland drainage, limpkin habitats have been greatly reduced. Heavy accumulations of non-native plants (mainly hyacinths and cattails) in foraging areas prevent them from being able to locate food, and deteriorated water quality is also a concern.

As a specialist species, limpkins have a limited diet and strict habitat requirements. Florida was once the northern range for these tropical wetland birds, as well as for apple snails, their primary prey. Indeed, limpkin bills are bent and twisted at the tip, in an impressive adaptation for easily removing the snails from their shells. Interestingly, the introduction of an invasive species of apple snail, which is harmful to our delicate wetland ecosystems, has expanded limpkin range. Because the invasive snails are more tolerant of cold, they’ve rapidly spread north, and limpkins followed as far as Louisiana.

Protected lands, such as Myakka River State Park, are critical for the survival of many of our native species, which in turn are critical for the health of our Florida ecosystems. To keep wild Florida healthy, we should avoid introducing non-native species into our environment. We can also help wildlife by respecting their space and not further interfering with their homes and well-being.

Photo courtesy of Kylie Wilson

American oystercatchers, black skimmers and royal terns on Anna Maria Island recently

Coming nest: baby shorebirds NAT KAEMMERER STAFF WRITER

Miri Hardy

ENJOY THE WILD Wild Florida is a monthly feature written by Miri Hardy, the first executive director of the Friends of Myakka River. Miri has been a Sarasota resident since 2014 and holds a doctorate in social psychology from Washington University in St. Louis. She is happiest exploring wild Florida, often on her bike, and capturing its beauty though the lens of her camera.

This is especially critical when they are feeding or tending to their young.

—MIRI HARDY FRIENDS OF MYAKKA RIVER

Friends of Myakka River exists to support Myakka River State Park and the Wild and Scenic Myakka River. Together, we’re protecting and sharing Myakka’s Magic, to the benefit of future generations and our own.

Down-covered limpkin chicks leave the nest within a day of hatching, with both parents protecting and feeding them until they can fly.

E

aster might soon be upon us, but don’t go searching for eggs on Longboat Key’s beaches. Nesting season for shorebirds such as the least terns, black skimmers, snowy plovers and American oystercatchers is also fast approaching, and the birds need all the space humans can give them to start their families.

“The beach is their home, and we have to be respectful when visiting,” Audubon Florida shorebird coordinator Kylie Wilson said. “The habitat has improved on north Longboat with the renourishment project, and we’ve seen least terns nesting on renourished beaches in the past, so be on the lookout. … With the renourishment and all that extra habitat, it’s very possible we will have nesting on that end.”

Wilson has started her surveys of Longboat Key and noticed terns and oystercatchers without any nesting activity yet. Terns generally start nesting by the end of April and oystercatchers by the end of May. Normally, there are skimmers that nest on Longboat Key and Lido Beach, so the terns and oystercatchers are newbies to the area. It’s too early to tell if they’ll nest.

“We do have them hanging out on Longboat Key sometimes, but maybe it’s immature birds that aren’t ready to nest yet,” Wilson said. “We want to make sure they have a safe place

DOGS DENIED

Sorry, Fido. Dogs aren’t allowed on Longboat Key beaches partly because of the birds. All the shorebirds that would potentially nest on Longboat Key are protected species, and even a tooclose trot from the most well-meaning pooch can disturb nesting birds. Kylie Wilson and her volunteers try to gently remind dog owners when they come across them.

“You can unknowingly scare them off their nest,” Wilson said. “We all love dogs; we’re animal-lovers, but it’s important for dog owners to recognize that it’s important to be a responsible pet owner. I’ve been recommending Ken Thompson Park to a lot of people because it has bay access so the dogs can go in the water.”

to nest and be young ’ uns and forage and rest on the beach.”

Make sure birds get about 10 feet of distance if passing them on the beach, even if there’s no nesting activity. If there is, contact Wilson at Kylie.Wilson@Audubon.org. “If you see birds jumping on top of each other or shaking fish at each other, that’s their (terns) mating ritual,” Wilson said.

Wilson is also doing public beach bird walks this season, starting at 9 a.m. on April 16 at the Lido Beach Pavilion.

We’re neighbors covering neighbors.

Liz Ramos STAFF WRITER

Beat: East County Education Hometown: Carol Stream, Illinois Currently Living: Bradenton Alma mater: University of Missouri What you do when you are not working?

I love to spend time with friends and family, bake, craft and go to Disney.

Connect: lramos@yourobserver.com

Whether it’s a classroom assignment or a big School District of Manatee County issue, I love that the Observer covers it all. I have the opportunity to share the great things happening in our schools while also writing about important topics and decisions affecting every student in the district.

JOIN THE NEIGHBORHOOD //

Support independent local journalism today at YourObserver.com/newsies

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Photos by Liz Ramos

Above: Kady Haley, a junior, tries her best to walk across the tightwire with help from Mara Christiani, a Circus Arts Conservatory coach. Right: Junior Christian Ordetx tries his hand at juggling two balls before adding a third.

Physics gets physical Sarasota Circus Arts Conservatory performers teach The Out-of-Door Academy students how physics applies in real world.

LIZ RAMOS STAFF WRITER

M

aggie Fincher, a junior at The Out-of-Door Academy, jumped onto the thin lyra hoop hanging from the ceiling.

Rikki Heddig-Rolfe Meaux, a Circus Arts Conservatory coach, instructed Fincher to hold onto the hoop with her dominant hand while extending her legs and other arm in an attempt to put her body into a straight line.

Fincher then crunched her body into a ball while holding onto the hoop, making it spin.

Besides learning some cool circus tricks, she got to learn about kinetic and potential energy as well as gravity.

A group of junior physics students from ODA went to the Circus Arts Conservatory on April 5 to learn how physics applies to the circus arts.

“You get a different level of engagement when you’re out in the world experiencing things,” said Caitlyn Dixon, the science, technology, engineering and mathematics director at ODA. “We do a great job of incorporating labs and activities in classrooms, but students engage differently depending on what your environment is.”

Through juggling, jumping on a trampoline, walking across a tightwire and doing stunts on a hoop, students were able to see how factors such as mass, friction, gravity, kinetic energy, unbalanced forces, velocity and more impact the circus arts.

“It was cool to be able to see what goes into all these tricks,” junior Reece Phillips said. “It’s definitely difficult,

and it’s amazing to see how hard people work to make it all possible.”

The following are some typical circus skills students tried, along with how physics applies to each.

AERIAL

Students got try their hand at aerial stunts using a lyra hoop.

Kinetic energy: Students jumped onto the hoop and extended their bodies to try to make a straight line before crunching up into a ball, causing the lyra hoop to spin faster.

Potential energy: Rikki HeddigRolfe Meaux, a Circus Arts Conservatory coach, raised the hoop higher and had students tried different exercises, such as hanging from the hoop and moving their legs around or hanging upside down.

TIGHT WIRE

Students attempted to walk across a tightwire without falling.

Friction: Walking across the tight wire, students were able to see how

their feet sliding across the wire caused friction.

Center of mass: Students held their arms out at their sides and tried to walk the tightwire with their center of mass directly over the rope.

TRAMPOLINE

Students jumped and tried to do seat drops and flips on a trampoline.

Speed: Their energy influenced how fast they jumped.

Velocity: The speed and direction in which the students moved while jumping on the trampoline demonstrated their velocity.

Acceleration: When students changed the speed or direction they were jumping, they were demonstrating acceleration.

JUGGLING

For many students, visiting the Circus Arts Conservatory was their first opportunity to try juggling. They started with throwing one ball in the air before adding a second and finally a third.

Balanced forces: When the ball lands in the student’s hand and stops moving, the forces are balanced. All the forces pushing on the

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THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

YOUR CALENDAR

POINT OF SALE IN

MANATEE COUNTY WHAT IS POINT OF SALE? When we say “Point of Sale” we’re referring to marketing and promoting tobacco products in retail environments - like gas stations, convenience stores, and other retail outlets.

THURSDAY, APRIL 21

KIWANIS CLUB OF LONGBOAT KEY AUTHOR SERIES Meet at the Lazy Lobster at 8:30 a.m. for a breakfast meeting with author Jon Dietz, who recently published his second novel. Dietz is a former newspaper reporter but changed careers to be an investigator for the Office of Public Defender in the 12th judicial district. Breakfast is $15 for non-members. Call 3834415 to RSVP.

RECURRING EVENTS MONDAYS

STRETCH & STRENGTHEN From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Focus is on strength training and flexibility for balance. Suzy Brenner leads the class. Fee is $10. Walk-ins welcome.

Call 383-6493.

E IN [INSERT COUNTY] Point of Sale is IS POINT OF SALE? the tobacco industry’s Sale,” we’re referring to marketing and POINT OF SALE– like IN [INSERT COUNTY] marketing method oducts inmain retail environments gas SERT COUNTY]

THINKING OUT LOUD: TIMELY TOPICS WITH MIKE KARP From 1-2:30 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Topics will include U.S. and world current affairs, popular culture and topics relevant to seniors. Cost is $10.

Walk-ins welcome. Call 383-6493.

nce stores, and other retail outlets.

WHAT IS POINT OF SALE?

F SALE?

SOME TACTICS

MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY

LONGBOAT LIBRARY The Longboat Library is open again from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday. Visit the library at 555 Bay Isles Road. There will also be a half-price sale on the library’s collection of used books every Wednesday. Call 383-2011 for information.

MONDAY, WEDNESDAY AND FRIDAY

MUSCLES AND MORE WITH ANN ALVIS From 8:30-9:30 a.m. at the Bayfront Park Recreation Center, 4052 GMD, use strength equipment to build flexibility, endurance and balance.

Class focuses on proper lifting technique. Class is $10 for members and $15 for others. Visit LongboatKey. org for information.

PUMPING THE PRIME WITH MIRABAI HOLLAND At 10 a.m. at the Bayfront Park Recreation Center, 4052 GMD, take this low-impact cardio and strength class. Participants should be able to get up and down from the floor. Bring a mat or towel. Classes are outside and cost $10 for members and $15 for others. For information, email Mirabai Holland at mirabai@movingfree.com or call 201-956-1466

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND SATURDAYS LORD’S WAREHOUSE THRIFT STORE The thrift store will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 6140 GMD. Donations are accepted during business hours. Call 383-4738.

MONDAYS AND THURSDAYS

SARASOTA INSTITUTE OF LIFETIME LEARNING VIDEOS OF MUSIC MONDAYS AND GLOBAL ISSUES III LECTURES 9 From 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road.

Through Thursday, April 7. $10 per person. Visit SILLSarasota.org or TBI-LBK.org.

When we say “Point of Sale,” we’re referring to marketing and THEYproducts USE ARE: eferringpromoting to marketing and tobacco in retail environments – like gas environments – like gas Discounting products, stations, convenience stores, and other retail outlets. other retail outlets. appealing to children and HAT IS POINT OF SALE? youngUSE adults.

SOME TACTICS THEY ARE: int of Sale,” we’reproducts, referring toretailers marketing Discounting appealing to for and Paying cco products inand retail environments like gas children young adults. product–location prime TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY nvenience stores, and other retail outlets.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS Paying retailers for prime product location ALE? and advertising. and advertising.

APRIL 19, 2022 SOME TACTICS THEY USE ARE: ACTICS THEY USE ARE:Targeting lower-income OUTLINE DEVELOPMENT PLAN AMENDMENT (QUASI-JUDICIAL) Targeting lower-income communities.Discounting products, appealing to ing to marketing and AND SITE DEVELOPMENT PLAN (QUASI-JUDICIAL) ng products, appealing to communities. children and young adults. ironments – like gas and young adults. IMPORTANT? NT OF SALE Please take notice that public hearings of the Town of Longboat Key’s Planning Paying retailers for prime product location er retail outlets. & Zoning Board will be held at the request of LB 500 LLC, Property Owner, for

sSALE IN [INSERT COUNTY]

n Point of Sale is RT COUNTY] the tobacco industry’s main le is marketing N [INSERT COUNTY] tailers for prime product location co advertising. method.

WHY IS POINTandOF rtising.

POINT OF SOME SALE? TACTICS THEY USE ARE:lower-income communities.

Targeting main lower-incomeSALE communities.

IMPORTANT? Discounting products, appealing to e,” we’re referring to marketing and WHY IS POINT OF SALE IMPORTANT? children and young adults. gIMPORTANT? ts in retail environments – like gas Studies show product that tobacco Paying retailers for prime locationuse stores, and other retail outlets. advertising. is associated with exposure to .CS THEY USEandARE:

property located at 3000 Harbourside Drive. Specifically, the applicant is requesting:

1. An Outline Development Plan amendment to increase the non-open space within the Bay Isles Planned Development, by allowing for the development of additional recreational facilities (four (4) new pickleball courts) at the existing Harbourside Tennis Club.

hools with a higher number of bacco retailers nearby tend have higher smoking rates.

More cigarettes are sold in convenience stores than in any other type of store.

2. A Site Development Plan amendment to allow construction of four (4) new pickleball courts, totaling 8,640 square feet.

Targeting lower-income communities. retail advertising and roducts, appealing to relatively easy to access oung adults.

The quasi-judicial public hearings before the Planning and Zoning Board on the Applicant’s Outline Development Plan amendment and Site Development Plan amendment requests will be held on April 19, 2022, at 9:15 a.m., or as soon thereafterare as sold may in be heard, in the Town Commission Chambers at Town Hall, More cigarettes convenience than in any 501 Baystores Isles Road, Longboat Key, Florida. This hearing will be held in accorother type of store. dance with established quasi-judicial procedures.

POINT OF SALE IMPORTANT? SERT COUNTY] DOING? products.

Studies show that tobacco use is tobacco Schools with a higher number of

s for prime product location

er of associated Morewith cigarettes are sold in exposure to retail tobacco retailers nearby tend SHMENTS AND/OR FUTURE GOALS] g. advertising nd convenience storeseasy than in any and relatively to have higher smoking rates.

Schools with a higher . type of products. store. accessother to tobacco er-income SOMEcommunities.

TACTICS THEY USE ARE: All interested persons may appear and be heard with respect to the request number of tobacco retailers for Outline Development Plan amendment and Site Development Plan amendnearby tend to have higher Discounting products, appealing to ment submitted by the Applicant. Copies of the Applicant’s proposal and relatWHAT IS [INSERT COUNTY] DOING? PORTANT? NTY] DOING? children and young adults. ed material associated with the request may be viewed at the Planning, Zonsmoking rates.

[INSERT ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND/OR FUTURE GOALS] ing & Building Department, 501 Bay Isles Road, between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 Schools with a higher number of More cigarettes are sold in D/OR FUTURE GOALS] Paying retailers for prime product location p.m. weekdays prior to the hearing. Questions may be directed to the Planning, tobacco retailers nearby tend convenience stores than in any Zoning & Building Department at 316-1966. The proposed amendment will afand advertising. are sold in to have higher smoking rates. More cigarettes other type of store. fect property within the corporate boundaries of the Town of Longboat Key as R MORE INFORMATION. Targeting lower-income convenience communities. stores than any shown on the map appearing at the bottom of this advertisement. other type of store.

No verbatim record by a certified court reporter is made of these proceedings.

S [INSERT COUNTY] DOING?

INVOLVED!

OF More SALE IMPORTANT? cigarettes are sold in

Accordingly, any person who may seek to appeal any decision involving the matters noticed herein will be responsible for making a verbatim record of the testimony and evidence at these proceedings upon which any appeal is to be based (see Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes). In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, Florida Statutes, persons needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact the Town Clerk’s office at 941-316-1999 forty-eight (48) hours in advance of this proceeding. If you are hearing impaired, please call 941-316-8719.

CAN GET INVOLVED! D!YOU CONTACTWHAT [CONTACT INFO] MORE INFORMATION. IS FOR MANATEE

MPLISHMENTS AND/OR FUTURE GOALS] convenience stores than in any other type of store.

TION.

COUNTY Y] DOING?

DOING?

RthFUTURE GOALS] We continue to educate our community about a higher number of More cigarettes are sold in etailers nearby convenience storesmarketing than in any bigtend tobacco’s deceptive tactics. gher smoking rates. other type of store.

ET INVOLVED!

David Green, Chair, Planning & Zoning Board Published: 4-14-2022

FO] FOR MORE INFORMATION.

We are highlighting the importance of decreasing tobacco sales to youth and young RT COUNTY] DOING? adults under 21.

ENTS AND/OR FUTURE GOALS]

YOU CAN GET INVOLVED!

RE INFORMATION.

379928-1

VOLVED!

380081-1

CHD41COMMUNITYHEALTH@FLHEALTH.GOV FOR MORE INFORMATION

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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19

THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

St. Armands Key

LUTHERAN CHURCH UPCOMING EVENTS:

379698-1

HOLY WEEK SCHEDULE:

Maundy Thursday- April 14th, 12 & 7pm SAKLC Speaker Series April 21st @ 4pm - Dr. Demian Chapman, Good Friday- April 15th, 12 & 7pm Director of Center for Shark Research, and Easter Vigil- April 16th, 7pm Dr. Michael Moore, Special Advisor, Office of Resurrection of Our Lordthe President, of Mote Marine Lab & Aquarium April 17th, 7 & 10am Garden Service, April 28th @ 5:30pm 9 & 11am Main Sanctuary Allen Speer, CEO of Agape Flights

St. Armands Key Lutheran Church • 40 North Adams Dr., Sarasota, FL • 941.388.1234

Temple Beth Israel

File photo

FRIDAY, APRIL 22

EARTH DAY WALKS AND TALKS From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 GMD, participate in Earth Day events, including guided bay walks with Selby Gardens, talks at the gazebo and presenters including the Longboat Key Garden Club, Longboat Key Turtle Watch, Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium and more. The event is free and open to the public. Call 383-6491 for information.

The Center of Jewish Living on Longboat Key

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

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

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

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

MAH JONGG From 1-3 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Fun time for experienced players. To check availability at the tables, email MaryAnnBrady@TheParadiseCenter.org.

ROTARY CLUB Meets at 5 p.m. on the first and third Tuesday in All Angles Parish Hall, 563 Bay Isles Road. To learn more, call Nancy Rozance at 203-6054066 or email Info@LongboatKeyRotary.org.

TUESDAYS AND THURSDAY

PILATES SCULPT WITH DEBBY DEBILE From 9-10 a.m. at the Bayfront Park Recreation Center, 4052 GMD. Class is $10 for members and $15 for others. Visit LongboatKey.org for information.

FEEL GOOD YOGA WITH DEBBY DEBILE From 10:30-11:30 a.m. at the Bayfront Park Recreation Center, 4052 GMD, get into this therapeutic yoga style that combines gentle vinyasa, alignment and restorative yoga. Suitable for all levels. Class is $10 for members and $15 for others. Visit LongboatKey.org for information.

WEDNESDAYS

BEREAVEMENT GROUP From 2-3:30 p.m. weekly through March 23 at the JFCS office at 540 Bay Isles Road, facilitated by Community Chaplain Rabbi Jonathan R. Katz. Cost is $36 for the six-week program. To register, contact Katz

941.383.3428 | www.tbi-lbk.org

at 366-2224 ext. 166 or jkatz@jfcscares.org.

THURSDAYS

Open Arms, Loving Hearts, An Ecumenical Accepting Church that Minds Welcomes All People

KIWANIS CLUB OF LONGBOAT KEY At 8:30 a.m. at Lazy Lobster, 5350 Gulf of Mexico Drive. This service organization meets every first and third Thursday of the month for breakfast and a speaker. Breakfast is $10. Email Lynn Larson at lynnlarson@comcast.net to register.

ST. ARMANDS KEY LUTHERAN CHURCH BRIDGE CLUB Every Thursday beginning at 1 p.m. at St. Armands Key Lutheran Church, 40 N. Adams Drive, join an ACBL-sanctioned game of contract bridge with certified teachers. All skill levels are welcome. There is an $8 suggested donation for each session. Refreshments will be provided.

RSVP to 952-9251.

Please Join Us APRIL 15TH - 6:00 P.M.

Good Friday Service in the Sanctuary

APRIL 17TH

ZUMBA AND MAT PILATES FOR SENIORS From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. The class, designed for active seniors, starts with zumba and shifts to all-level mat Pilates at 10:30 a.m. Come for 30 minutes or the full hour. Cost is $10.

Walk-ins welcome. Call 383-6493.

7:00 a.m. Easter Sunrise Service in the Friendship Garden 10:00 a.m. Easter Service in the Sanctuary Special music presentation at all services

FRIDAYS

INTERMEDIATE TAI CHI From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Reuben Fernandez teaches the class outdoors, weather permitting. Free for members, $10 for others. Walk-ins welcome. Call 383-6493.

6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, Florida 34228 941.383.6491 | longboatislandchapel.org

Lord’s Warehouse

THRIFT SHOP Mon., Wed. & Sat. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Growing in Jesus’ Name

• We’ve ramped up, anyone of any mobility is welcome • In-person worship services Sunday at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m.

• Live-stream at AllAngelsLBK.org to participate on-line

St. Mary, Star of the Sea,

CATHOLIC CHURCH

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

MASS SCHEDULE CONFESSIONS: Friday, April 8, 4-6pm and Saturday, April 9, 9am-Noon HOLY THURSDAY: Mass at 5:00pm • Adoration until 9:00pm GOOD FRIDAY: Stations at Noon • Passion Service at 3:00pm SATURDAY EASTER VIGIL: Mass at 8:00pm EASTER SUNDAY: Mass at 7:30am, 9:30am, 11:30am OVERFLOW EASTER SUNDAY MASSES IN FATHER EDWARD PICK HALL: 9:45am Rev. Robert Dziedziak, Pastor

379203-1 372196-1

563 Bay Isles Rd • 941-383-8161 AllangelsLBK.org

HOLY WEEK SERVICES

The Rev. Dr. Norman M. Pritchard

• Good Friday service 4.15 at noon, in-person and on-line.

379399-1

380378-1

567 Bay Isles Road • Longboat Key, FL

BEGINNER TAI CHI From 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Class is outdoors, weather permitting. Cost is $10. Walk-ins welcome. Call 383-6493.

All are welcome at All Angels no exceptions

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

RABBI STEPHEN L. SNIDERMAN, D.D.

378113-1

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

MAUNDY THURSDAY TENEBRAE SERVICE Thursday, April 14 • 7:30 PM Choir & Communion Service • Dr. Fred Finks Preaching

GOOD FRIDAY SERVICE Friday, April 15 • 1:00 PM Rev. Dr. Norman M. Pritchard Preaching

EASTER DAY SERVICES 8:30 & 10:00 AM Sunday, April 17 Choir Featured at Both Services Childcare Available Visitors & Residents Welcome Watch Our 10:00 AM Service Live: www.bit.ly/cclbksermons or www.christchurchoflbk.org (follow YouTube link)

6400 Gulf of Mexico Dr.

•

941.383.8833 (office)

•

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TUESDAYS

www.christchurchoflbk.org

Classifieds 34 Games 33 Real Estate 27 Weather 33

APRIL 14, 2022

YOUR NEIGHBORS

IN GOOD TASTE Club brings back its food and fashion fundraiser at the 11th annual Taste of the Keys event.

KAT HUGHES EXECUTIVE EDITOR

D

Above: Kip O’Neill shows off a stunningly evening look. Below: Diane Blake models a bright all-white outfit.

Photos by Kat Hughes

Above: Irene Peters brings a bit of sunshine to the runway. Right: Michael O’Neil takes a practice swing.

Naiya & Stewart Moon

Above: Event co-Chairs Lyn Haycock, Nancy McLean, President Susan Phillips, Janice Reiser and Deb Sauers Left: Lazy Lobster owner Michael Garey serves a dish to Carol Peschel.

Bill and Linda Mitchell

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iane Blake strode to the edge of the runway, flashed a peace sign that went fittingly with her black peace-sign bedazzled top and matching jeans, and did a spin to display her camera-shaped bag to the hoots and applause from the audience.

The Longboat Key Garden Club’s Taste of the Keys Fashion Show was back.

Blake was one of 12 Longboat Key residents, Garden Club members and business leaders who modeled fashions ranging from resort chic to evening elegance at the 11th annual Taste of the Keys fashion show the evening of April 7 at the Longboat Key Club’s Harbourside dining room.

Before the show, the approximately 250 guests in attendance sampled bites from about 10 local restaurants for the event.

Euphemia Haye’s Ray Arpke began the show by asking for a round of applause for the restaurants that donated the food for the evening. But he also wanted to make sure they received recognition for the hard times they’ve survived and make sure folks still know they’re struggling and need support and understanding.

“It has been an interesting couple of years for these restaurants, as you can imagine,” he said. “We went without customers for a couple of months … but now we have to go without employees.”

As the models made their way down the runway and around the room, they garnered applause and the occasional “oohs” as they displayed the detailing on their clutch or the colorful lining of their blazers. The fashions were provided by Foxy Lady and Marcello Sport, both with long histories on St. Armands Circle.

The event is the primary fundraiser for the Garden Club, which uses the proceeds for its scholarships, grants and beautification projects on the Key. One of the programs the Garden Club makes possible is paying for Key workers’ children to attend summer camps that they otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford. Arpke noted before the fashion show that several of his employees had received scholarships from the Garden Club over the years as well.

Although the event was about 100 people smaller than last time, in January 2020, coChair Lyn Haycock said the group was hopeful it would make its goal of raising at least $20,000, as it has in previous years.

“We are very happy with the turnout,” she said. “Especially after COVID.”

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

21

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22

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

About 30 people turned out for the tai chi class led by master Max Yan.

Photos by Eric Garwood

Master class in serenity T

Above: Certified tai chi instructor Reuben D. Fernandez warms up the group. Below: Sue Ferrara follows the lead of master Max Yan.

ai chi is a weekly thing at The Paradise Center on Longboat Key, but not so visits from master Max Yan. As in past visits, The Paradise Center’s usual teacher, Reuben Fernandez, warmed up the students before handing them off to Yan during a class on April 8 in the center’s parking lot.

Fernandez has been a student of Yan’s for nearly 20 years. Yan, 55, is a 27th generation practitioner of Dragon Gate taoism, a form of the philosophy that incorporates Buddhism and Confucianism. Tai chi is a physical manifestation of taoism and its softness and balance.

On a beautiful day for an outdoor activity, about 30 people came out to participate.

Tai chi enthusiast Barbara Mason noted that no matter what the weather before or after a tai chi class, the day of the event always seems to turn out perfect.

Above: The assembled students follow Yan. Left: Marion Schmollinger follows along with the instruction.

—ERIC GARWOOD

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REAL ESTATE DONE • Certified LuxurySIMPLY Home Marketing Specialist • On Longboat Key since 2002 • Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist • On Longboat Key since 2002 • LBK Commissioner • 2020 Michael & Company • LBK Commissioner SaundersSaunders & Company Sarasota Memorial Hospital volunteer • 2020 Michael “Top Sales Associates” • Sarasota Memorial Hospital volunteer “Top Sales Associates” • Recent in:Isles-Harbor Bay Isles-Harbor | • Recent salessales in: Bay | • 35 of legal experience • 35 years of years legal experience Promenade The Pearl | Tangerine Promenade | The |Pearl | Tangerine Bay | Bay | 2020 Masters Award Winner Sands | Fairway Bay | Harbour Award Winner Sands PointPoint | Fairway Bay | Harbour Villa Villa• 2020•Masters ClubClub | Perico Bay | Longbeach | Perico Bay | Longbeach

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379382-1

378131-1

333 N. Orange Avenue | Sarasota, FL 34236 (941) 303-4200 | gulfsidebank.com

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

23

REID MURPHY PRESENTS

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

941-232-3304

NEW LISTING

LONGBOAT KEY GULFFRONT

$17,900,000

New resort-style estate now under construction. Home + Guesthouse w/100’ of frontage on rare 1+ acre. 10,400 sf of A/C + 2,850 sf of decks & patios w/ Spa & fitness, 60 ft. lap-pool & 8 car garage.

NEW LISTING

SARASOTA PENTHOUSE

$6,995,000

Downtown Ritz Carlton 3BR Ensuite Residence. Magnificent 4,276 sf open floor plan. Spectacular views. World class amenities.

LONGBOAT KEY SEA GATE

$1,895,000

Direct Gulf Front, 2BR/2BA 2nd floor end-unit. Floor to ceiling windows, covered beachside balcony. Resort-like amenities include beachside heated pool & tiki huts.

PENDING

LONGBOAT KEY - BAY ISLES

LONGBOAT KEY CUSTOM HOME

$4,395,000

Behind the gates at the Longboat Key Club. Custom built, 5 en-suite BR + office space on lush Islandside golf course. Expansive patio area w/60’ lap-pool. Deeded beach access & attached three car garage.

LONGBOAT KEY UNIQUE BAYFRONT

$7,850,000

Best views on Longboat Key. 6,000 sf, 4 en-suite bedrooms + 5th den/bedroom. Bruce Saba luxury built with panoramic views & pool at treetop level.

LONGBOAT KEY BAYFRONT ESTATE

$6,595,000

LONGBOAT KEY BOATERS DREAM

$1,985,000

Rare opportunity! Build your dream home Bayfront on oversized lot, 100ft on the bay, beach access across the street & side canal for privacy. PLUS elevated separate guest house is a bonus structure no longer permitted for new builds.

PENDING

$3,495,000

Exceptional 4,600sf 4BR/7BA estate on 1/4 acre w/ views of Bayou Sound. Private beach, personal gym in 6 car garage. Golf club just outside the gates.

LONGBOAT KEY WATER CLUB PENTHOUSE $4,495,000

Completely remodeled 4BR/4BA in south tower. Designer touches w/ added windows offer unique Bay, city, and amazing sunset views. Just minutes shopping, golf, marinas, Mote Marine, St. Armands Circle & downtown Sarasota.

Waterfront 2BD/2BA renovated home on 135 feet of canal, second in from Sarasota Bay. Newer seawall, dock+ lift and room for other water toys. Deeded beach access.

Developers Realty Inc. Lic. Real Estate Broker

www.ReidMurphy.com

595 Bay Isles Road Longboat Key, FL 34228

379241-1

CALL REID TODAY! | 941.232.3304

24

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

PET PICS Have photos of your four-legged family members? We want to see them! Share them at YourObserver.com/contests/petpics to be published online and for a chance to see them in print!

Longboat Key’s First 5-Star Resort Community ST. REGIS LONGBOAT KEY

Seaside Sanctuary on the Gulf of MexicoNestled along the sugar-white sands of the Gulf of Mexico, The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort brings luxury seaside living to an unprecedented level of appreciation. Exquisite gulf-front spaces of flawless craftsmanship and modern sensibility are complemented by the uncompromising services inherent to The St. Regis brand. In this magnificent, guard-gated resort, guests enjoy world-class amenities such as an exclusive spa and fitness center, chefdriven restaurants, multiple swimming pools, a saltwater lagoon, intimate lounges and beachside service. Welcome to a new, extraordinary destination on Florida’s sunset coast.

Elegant Oceanfront Living Spacious rooms designed for entertaining. Private spaces to unwind. Multiple outdoor terraces.

Spanning 1,553 to 5,895 square feet, 69 residences present a fresh take on life by the Gulf and, at every turn, the allure of ocean vistas.

PIER REVIEW: Cali loves her morning walks through Longboat Village.

S E A F O O D E AT E RY I N S O U T H S I D E V I L L AG E

EAT LOCAL

EAT FRESH

Open Tuesday - Friday 11am to 9pm Saturday 3 to 9pm Closed Sundays & Mondays 370459-1

Artist’s Concept

ORDER ONLINE ReefCakes.com

1812 S. Osprey Ave. Sarasota, FL 34239 941-444-7968

Artist’s Concept Artist’s Concept

379592-1

LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL A PROPERTY ON LONGBOAT KEY, BIRD KEY, OR ANYWHERE ELSE IN THE SARASOTA ISLANDS?

Walter Group is the right choice!

Scan the QR Code to Visit GivingChallenge.org on April 26 & 27 and Select Cat Depot as One of Your Benefitting Charities!

2542 17th St, Sarasota, FL 34234 | (941) 366-2404 | catdepot.org

As 20-year Longboat Key residents, Janet Walter and Steve Walter know the Sarasota islands and would love to share their knowledge of the local real estate market!

Walter Group Real Estate specializes in leveraging state-of-the-art digital marketing - with a concierge service.

Pirouette® Luminette® PowerView® Automation

The result is Walter Group gets you the maximum exposure to sell your Longboat Key property sold fast and for the most money.

Sarasota’s Best Voted One of

28 Years in a Row!

YOUR HOME DESERVES

STEVE WALTER 941.809.0907

steve @waltergrouprealestate.com

Hunter Douglas!

BLINDS•SHUTTERS DRAPERIES•WALLCOVERINGS

JANET WALTER 941.232.2000

janet @waltergrouprealestate.com

941-925-7800 mmwallcoveringsblinds.com Wallcoverings & Blinds, Inc. Since 1989

379369-1

#1 TEAM - LONGBOAT KEY 2020 Janet and Curt Mattson Owners

4801 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota Across from The Landings 379505-1

waltergrouprealestate.com

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

25

Coldwell Banker CONGRATULATES the TOP team!

The #1 sales team in the state of Florida $134 Million Sold in 2021

1

#

Small Team

Lori Lawson

941.735.4385

Judy Kepecz-Hays 941.587.1700

Steven Kepecz 941.376.6411

Judy Kepecz-Hays Team $2.3 Billion Career Sales

CE EN I PR STM JU D A

T

Happy Easter and Pesach

Ritz-Carlton Managed Residence 1111 Ritz Carlton Drive #1204 Offered for $3,750,000. $3,495,000 www.Ritz-Carlton1204.com

from the Judy Kepecz-Hays Team

Luxury Knows No Limits! Sought after residence at the Ritz-Carlton in the heart of the city. Beyond Imagination, this home affords terrific views of the marina, Sarasota, and her islands.

N E P

N DI

April 14, 2022

G

FAIRWAY BAY | BAY ISLES

Ritz-Carlton Managed THE BEACH RESIDENCES 1300 Benjamin Franklin Dr. Residence 1001 Sarasota, FL 34236 Offered for $5,399,000.

BEYOND IMAGINATION with unparalleled amenities in a lifestyle of privacy and comfort await you here – instant enjoyment with hypnotizing views of the Gulf, Bay, Sarasota skyline, and the nature preserve. Beautiful views envelop this meticulously designed 3 bdrm plus a family room of 4200 sq. ft. residence. Ultimate casual elegance. 2 parking spaces & 2 pets welcome no weight limit.

1930 Harbourside Drive #121 Longboat Key, FL 34228 Offered for $850,000.

Sarasota Bay and skyline views from this light and bright large corner residence! 2 bedroom, 2 bath. 1,442 sq. ft. Residence has deeded beach access to the Gulf of Mexico with a grill, volleyball, & shaded picnic table. Create memories, relax, and enjoy endless amenities. One parking space under the building. They also allow you to have a small dog under 15 lbs.

Call us today for similar results 941-587-1700 $2.3 BILLION IN CAREER SALES

Judy Kepecz-Hays | 941.587.1700

COLDWELL BANKER REALTY

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

$134 MILLION IN CLOSED SALES IN 2021

379585-1

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

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

SIESTA KEY 7722 Sanderling Road 2 Beds 3 Baths 2,580 Sq. Ft. Brian Loebker 941-735-4393 A4527041 $9,000,000

MYAKKA CITY 3005 233rd Street E 4 Beds 3/2 Baths 4,164 Sq. Ft. Chris Baylis 941-735-4713 A4510152 $5,800,000

SARASOTA 1898 High Point Drive 5 Beds 6/1 Baths 4,102 Sq. Ft. Jeffrey Hinrichs 941-456-1251 A4527192 $4,350,000

BRADENTON 4708 64th Drive W 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 4,351 Sq. Ft. Adam Cuffaro 941-812-0791 A4529393 $4,295,000

SARASOTA 105 N Isle Drive 3 Beds 4/1 Baths 4,258 Sq. Ft. Phyllis Garfinkel 941-302-6400 A4530323 $3,950,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 112 Mangrove Avenue 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,577 Sq. Ft. Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4502423 $3,949,000

SIESTA KEY 615 Waterside Way 4 Beds 3 Baths 4,211 Sq. Ft. Ethel Lovelace & Mina Johnson 941-586-7390 A4529531 $3,200,000

SARASOTA 473 Partridge Circle 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,226 Sq. Ft. Drew Russell 941-993-3739 A4511642 $3,195,000

SIESTA KEY 472 Island Circle 4 Beds 3/2 Baths 3,339 Sq. Ft. Lenore Treiman 941-356-9642 A4526972 $2,995,000

SARASOTA 35 Watergate Drive 603 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,990 Sq. Ft. Joan Dickinson & Beth Afflebach 941-914-0496 A4529059 $2,750,000

BIRD KEY 628 N Owl Drive 3 Beds 2 Baths 2,534 Sq. Ft. Kathy Valente & Gregory Zies, LLC 941-685-6767 A4526783 $2,595,000

SARASOTA 1704 Arlington Street 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,545 Sq. Ft. Barbara May & Fred Sassen 404-822-9264 A4529406 $2,400,000

SARASOTA 3224 Signet Court 4 Beds 3/2 Baths 4,008 Sq. Ft. Linda Driggs & Sara Boudarga 941-374-2920 A4530120 $2,250,000

SIESTA KEY 6326 Midnight Pass Road 508 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,318 Sq. Ft. Karen Chandler 941-544-4919 A4523199 $2,159,000

SIESTA KEY 1660 Summerhouse Lane 103 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,400 Sq. Ft. Stacy Liljeberg & John Garmong 941-544-6103 A4530114 $1,850,000

LONGBOAT KEY 340 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 125 2 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,210 Sq. Ft. Debra Pitell-Hauge & Lisa Sebastian 941-356-0437 A4530591 $1,650,000

LONGBOAT KEY 1145 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 401 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,172 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy, PA & Gail Wittig, LLC 941-961-8850 A4530559 $1,599,000

SIESTA KEY 6146 Midnight Pass Road 10S 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,204 Sq. Ft. Marlene & George Marshall 941-539-8850 A4527968 $1,500,000

LONGBOAT KEY 775 Longboat Club Road 906 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,524 Sq. Ft. Lenore Treiman 941-356-9642 A4527843 $1,450,000

SIESTA KEY 5770 Midnight Pass Road 607 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,447 Sq. Ft. Karen Chandler 941-544-4919 A4529730 $1,350,000

BRADENTON 396 Aruba Circle 302 3 Beds 3 Baths 1,664 Sq. Ft. Debbie Vogler 941-705-3328 A4525652 $1,254,900

SIESTA KEY 6480 Midnight Pass Road 315 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,265 Sq. Ft. Denise Mei 941-685-3198 A4527710 $1,250,000

SARASOTA 1111 N Gulfstream Avenue 15B 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,575 Sq. Ft. Diane Otis Stirling 941-320-4261 A4530695 $1,245,000

SIESTA KEY 5920 Midnight Pass Road 304TOW 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,234 Sq. Ft. Rudy Dudon 941-234-3991 A4528197 $1,225,000

LONGBOAT KEY 1926 Harbourside Drive 1304 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,135 Sq. Ft. Cindy Fischer & Mark J Baron 941-465-1124 A4528490 $1,195,000

BRADENTON 5708 Inspiration Terrace 4 Beds 5/1 Baths 6,326 Sq. Ft. Fran DeDona & Pam Goodwin 941-812-5023 A4528037 $5,500,000

SIESTA KEY 7108 Midnight Pass Road 6 Beds 5 Baths 4,697 Sq. Ft. Stephen Weeks & Jeff Hinrichs 941-504-3689 A4523915 $4,950,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 820 N Shore Drive 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 3,953 Sq. Ft. Kathy Harman 941-900-9828 A4524887 $4,500,000

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM

373726-1

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LONGBOAT OBSERVER

THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

REAL ESTATE

Queen’s Harbour property sells for $2.7 million

|

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

MARCH 28-APRIL 1

1982, it has two bedrooms, three baths and 1,859 square feet of living area. It sold for $1,025,700 in 2005.

ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR

A

home in Queen’s Harbour tops all transactions in this week’s real estate. Bryan and Sylva Langton, of Longboat Key, sold their home at 3632 Fair Oaks Place to Elite Bayview Properties LLC for $2,725,000. Built in 1996, it has four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and 4,492 square feet of living area. It sold for $1,154,100 in 1996.

GRAND BAY

Lester Mangle and Pamela Mosser, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their Unit 174 condominium at 3060 Grand Bay Blvd. to Leonard and Tina Scavron, of Longboat Key, for $1,575,000. Built in 1994, it has two bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths and 2,369 square feet of living area.

It sold for $1.25 million in 2016.

BEACHPLACE

Sonia Kaufman, of Ann Arbor, Michigan, sold her Unit 505 condominium at 1085 Gulf of Mexico Drive to James and Catherine Diao, of Longboat Key, for $1.5 million. Built in 1981, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,819 square feet of living area. It sold for $507,500 in 2001.

LONGBEACH REVISED

Eugene Jaleski, of Clyde Hill, Washington, sold his home at 671 Cedar St. to 2538970 Ontario Inc. for $2.55 million. Built in 1965, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,710 square feet of living area.

Miles George Shaw and Mary Anne Niarchos, of Carson City, Nevada, sold their home at 711 Russell St. to Neil Richard Edwards and Trudy Armstrong, of Holmes Beach, for $1.4 million. Built in 1957, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,830 square feet of living area.

LONGBOAT KEY TOWERS

THE AQUARIUS CLUB

LONGBEACH

Edward and Judith Matonich, of Grand Rapids, Minnesota, sold their Unit N-1204 condominium at 603 Longboat Club Road to Huckleberry Ventures LLC for $1.75 million. Built in 1970, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,560 square feet of living area. It sold for $550,000 in 1998.

THE PLAYERS CLUB

Ronald and Laura Frank, of Longboat Key, sold their Unit 201 condominium at 1425 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Mark Louis Meyer, trustee, of Ontario, Canada, for $1,625,000. Built in 1983, it has three bedrooms, four baths and 2,107 square feet of living area. It sold for $1,375,000 in 2006.

John and Kathryn Pearce, of Palm Beach, sold their Uni 304 condominium at 1445 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Matthew Lutze, of Longboat Key, for $1.5 million. Built in

Eric Garwood

The home at at 671 Cedar St. in Longbeach Village was built in 1965. It has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,710 square feet of living area.

Outrigger Lane to Todd and Nicholle McKiernan, of Branford, Connecticut, for $1.05 million. Built in 1963, it has two bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,937 square feet of living area. It sold for $695,000 in 2008.

HARBOUR OAKS AT LONGBOAT KEY CLUB

Archibald and Irene Sneddon, trustees, of Kirkintiloch, United Kingdom, sold the Unit 4-D condominium at 1701 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Kirk and Joann Gibson, of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, for $1.14 million. Built in 1975, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,551 square feet of living area. It sold for $600,000 in 2008.

Michael and Jana Katz, of Ontario, Canada, sold their Unit 305 condominium at 2211 Harbourside Drive to Michael McCredie, of Longboat Key, for $910,000. Built in 1984, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,219 square feet of living area.

It sold for $697,000 in 2005.

FAIRWAY BAY

SEAPLACE

Seaplace 3 LLC sold the Unit M1-416J condominium at 2045 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Deborah Atsberger, trustee, of Richfield, Ohio, for $1.13 million. Built in 1974, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,532 square feet of living area. It sold for $73,300 in 1976.

Fred and Linda Haas, of Ambler, Pennsylvania, sold their Unit 311 condominium at 2016 Harbourside Drive to Richard David Arndt and Melody Arndt, trustees, of Rockford, Michigan, for $827,000. Built in 1984, it has two bedrooms, three

baths and 1,442 square feet of living area. It sold for $730,000 in 2005.

BAYPORT BEACH AND TENNIS CLUB

Sue Rosen, trustee, of St. Louis, sold the Unit 718 condominium at 718 Bayport Way to Robert and Sharon Decker, of Mount Airy, Maryland, for $618,000. Built in 1980, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,260 square feet of living area. It sold for $250,000 in 2011.

Yury Linetsky and Bayan Linetsky, of Longboat Key, sold their Unit 828 condominium at 828 Bayport Way to Frank and Caryn Trager, of Norfolk, Connecticut, for $540,000. Built in 1983, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,456 square feet of living area.

It sold for $144,000 in 1996.

In with the new

COUNTRY CLUB SHORES

Douglas and Jayne Plunkett, of Longboat Key, sold their home at 512

NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION

TOP BUILDING PERMITS These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of April 1-7 in order of dollar amounts.

L O N G B OAT K E Y ADDRESS 565 Sanctuary

PERMIT Interior alterations

APPLICANT Daryl Loyal Peterman

5481 GMD Unit 210

Interior alterations

Katherine Ann Liggett

372,000

601 Longboat Club

Interior alterations

Longboat Key Condo LLC

228,000

Longboat Key

AMOUNT($) 1,400,000

Drive #B404 The Residences at the St. Regis | 941.213.3300 | From $2.4MM to $10.9MM | Call for appointment | SRResidencesLongboatKey.com

Road #1104

NOW TAKING CONTRACTS

565 Sanctuary Drive #B205Windows and doors

Victor Keen

173,052

2301 GMD #73N

Interior alterations

Fred and Francie Woodward

131,580

775 Longboat Club

Interior alterations

Fred H. Rohn

116,000

1085 GMD #501

Windows and doors

Bradley Gene Murray

4651 GMD

Plumbing

4651 Gulf of Mexico Drive

60,086

2191 Harbourside

Windows and doors

Stephen C. Coyle

51,366

5055 GMD Unit 235

Doors

John D. Daly

30,902

Road #801 71,149

Downtown St. Petersburg

Drive #405 811 Binnacle Point Drive

Solar system

Jeanne Leszczynski

30,000

1241 GMD #1006

Interior alterations

Norman and Shari Frost Trust

25,000

767 St. Judes Drive N.

Electrical

Charles P. Godels

24,890

3740 GMD

Plumbing

Twin Shores Mobile Home

23,750

5461 GMD Unit 401

A/C change-out

Ann C. Cahill

20,582

4234 GMD Unit A1

Electrical

Grant Lawrence Smith

20,000

5460 GMD

Non-illuminated

Town of Longboat Key

18,863

400 Central | 727.209.7848 | From the $1MM’s | Call for appointment. | Residences400central.com 2 UNITS LEFT

monument sign 610 Longview Drive

Tiki hut

Green Heron Development

18,000

6750 GMD Unit 174

Door

Richard Bauernschmidt

16,239

608 St. Judes Drive

Mechanical

Anchor Jemm LLC

15,990

5635 GMD Unit 101

Hurricane shutters

Jeffrey D. Karrenbrock

11,230

513 Hornblower Lane

Dock

Ernie Goff

10,708

6011 Emerlad Harbor Drive A/C change-out

Pamela Haire Scott

10,316

530 Jessmyth Drive

Maiden Lane Property LLC

10,000

Demo of single

Downtown Sarasota

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

family residence A/C change-out

Eric and Heidi Quade Family

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

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

9,077

100 Sands Point Road #214 A/C change-out

Ian D. Crawford Revocable Trust 8,900

5921 Emerald Harbor Drive A/C change-out

Patrik Edin

100 Sands Point Road #324 A/C change-out

Ian D. Crawford Revocable Trust 8,400

8,656

3636 Fair Oaks Place

Dock

RH Revocable Trust

8,274

650 Longview Drive

Pool resurface

Francis Patrick White

7,900

Source: Town of Longboat Key

373648-1

720 Bayport Way

MichaelSaunders.com/New-Homes | 844.591.4333 | Sarasota, Florida Prices as of February 2022.

Licensed Real Estate Broker

27

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

Above: Barbara Bellamente and Jean-Marie Seidl wait in line for lunch. Right: New officers Casey Sheehe, Linda Olsen, Cindy Noble, Susan Gilmore-Clarke and Marilyn Davol were installed.

Gloria Lionetti and Nancy Gornto helped organize the lunch.

New year, new officers

T

Photos by Nat Kaemmerer

Above: Claudia Hennigan, Barbara Gurchiek and Jo Ann Schwencke wait for lunch. Below: Members walked to the Father Pick Fellowship Hall for lunch.

he promise of a new year calls for new leadership for the women’s guild of St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church.

Five officers were installed during a special Mass and celebrated during the guild’s meeting on April 8.

Cindy Noble, who became president partway through last year, remained president. Linda Olsen became vice president, Susan Gilmore-Clarke became recording secretary, Casey Sheehe was installed as corresponding secretary and Marilyn Davol remained treasurer. Three outgoing officers,

JoAnn Sifuentes, Paula Sharp and Susan DiNatale, were also honored.

After Mass, members gathered for one more lunch before the season ends. Committee leaders from the Royal Rummage, fashion show, Christmas Bazaar, Day of Reflection and new member committees gave a review of how their events went this year, and attendees got an opportunity to sign up to volunteer for next year’s events. In all, more than 50 members showed up to celebrate the guild’s work in 2021 and 2022.

—NAT KAEMMERER

JoAnn Sifuentes and Susan DiNatale were presented with flowers for their service to the guild.

Dolores Engelke and Jane Vorel head back with their food.

Betsy Dattalo and Mary Jane Tolpa catch up before the end of the season.

Maureen Horn REALTOR ® CIPS, e-PRO, GRI, RELO, SRES, RSPS

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

941.539.3384

MaureenHorn@michaelsaunders.com

WHY? WHY?

Congratulations to the #1 Single Agent Longboat Key Office

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

Consider Selling Your Property In ThisProperty Robust Market Consider Selling Your

In This Robust Market

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

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

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

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

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

Lakewood Ranch • East & West Bradenton

Longboat Key • Anna Maria Island • Sarasota www.WagnerRealty.com Lakewood Ranch • East & West Bradenton 380145-1

440 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key, FL 34228 941.383.7591 | michaelsaunders.com

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

www.WagnerRealty.com

374469-1

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29

THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

ANNOUNCING ANNOUNCING A BREAKTHROUGH

A BREAKTHROUGH IN HEARING AIDS! IN HEARING AIDS!

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THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

INTRODUCING THE NEWEST, MOST ADVANCED

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AURUM INTRODUCTORY OFFER

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RECHARGEABLE REAL TIME PROGRAMMING BY A HEARING REAL TIME PROGRAMMING BYINVISIBLE A HEARING PROFESSIONAL WHEREVER YOU ARE! WHEREVER YOU ARE! REAL TIME PROGRAMMING BY A HEARING PROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONAL WHEREVER YOU ARE!

RECHARGEABLE

RECHARGEABLE

REAL TIME PROGRAMMING BY A HEARING PROFESSIONAL WHEREVER YOU ARE!

INVISIBLE INVISIBLE

RECHARGEABLE Connect remotely to an Audiologist or INVISIBLE Hearing Aid Specialist to adjust them Connectremotely remotelyto to an an Audiologist oror Connect Audiologist ANYWHERE! Connect remotely to an Audiologist or Hearing Aid Specialist to adjust them INVISIBLE Hearingthem Aid Specialist to adjust them Hearing Aid Specialist to adjust INVISIBLE NO MOREANYWHERE! OFFICE VISITS! ANYWHERE!

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MORE OFFICE VISITS! NO MORE OFFICENO VISITS! SMART APP RECHARGEABLE NO MOREPHONE OFFICE VISITS! NO MORE OFFICE VISITS! nothing SMARTThere’s PHONE APP like RECHARGEABLE Connect remotely to an Audiologist or There’s nothing like SMART PHONE RECHARGEABLE the sound oflike Paradise.

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Total control withParadise, delivering Introducing Introducing Phonak Audéo™ an unrivaled Phonak Audéo™ Paradise, delivering an unrivaled

hearing experience.of The world’s first and only hearing aid the sound Paradise. your smartphone.

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your Totalsmartphone. control withto adjust them HearingANYWHERE! Aid Specialist Adjust your hearing the sound of Paradise. with a motion sensor, speech enhancement,

hearing experience. The world’s first and only hearing aid with a motion sensor, speech enhancement, tap control and tapuniversal controlBluetooth® and connectivity.

Introducing Phonak Audéo™ Paradise, delivering an unrivaled universal Bluetooth® connectivity. hearing experience. The world’s first and only hearing aid • Crisp, natural sound with a motion sensor, speech enhancement, tap control and universal •Bluetooth® Unrivaledconnectivity. sound quality

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Adjust your hearing aids for any Total control with Introducing Phonak Audéo™ Paradise, delivering an unrivaled smartphone.

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Rediscover your wondercharge of sound with for any • Empowering smart apps • 24 hours on a single environment with • Crisp, natural sound Phonak Audéo Paradise Adjust your hearing any environment with • Fully charge in 3 hours • Unrivaled sound quality • 24 hours on a single environment with Join us Month Date–Date, 2020 and receive: your smartphone.

• Personalized noise canceling charge Rediscover your wonder of sound with aids for any APP your smartphone.

SMART PHONE RECHARGEABLE • Connects to smartphones, TV and more charge your smartphone.

Rediscover your wonder of sound with Phonak • 24 Hours onAudéo a Paradise single charge OUR STAFF OF DOCTORS OF AUDIOLOGY • Empowering smart appsat Paradise Only available There’s nothing like• 24PROFESSIONAL Phonak Audéo & LICENSEDon HEARING AID SPECIALISTS hours a single environment with Phonak Audéo Paradise •• Fully charge in 3 hours Fully charge hours •2020 Fully charge in in3 3hours the of Paradise.

Join ussound Month Date–Date, andcharge receive: Centers your smartphone. Elite Hearing Join Rediscover us Month Date–Date, 2020 wonder and receive: of sound with your hearing screening | Free 30-day trial | Free live demonstration of the NEW Phonak Audéo Paradise Total control with Introducing Phonak Audéo™ Paradise, delivering an unrivaled ofFree America hearing experience.

The world’s first and only hearing aid Phonak Audéo Paradise PROFESSIONAL STAFF OF DOCTORS Call to schedule your in-person appointment today! OF AUDIOLOGY OUROUR PROFESSIONAL STAFF OF DOCTORS OF AUDIOLOGY Call XXX-XXX-XXXX tospeech schedule your safe in-person appointment today! with aXXX-XXX-XXXX motion sensor, enhancement, tap control and your smartphone.

Only available at •safeFully charge in 3 hours Only available at Rated & LICENSED HEARING AID SPECIALISTS & LICENSED HEARING AID SPECIALISTS universal Bluetooth® connectivity.

OVER 50 Join us Month Date–Date, 2020 and There’s receive: LOCATION nothing like • Crisp, natural sound Authorized Dealer Adjust your hearing Free hearing screening | Free 30-day trial | Free live demonstration of the NEW Phonak Audéo Paradise NATIONW S • Unrivaled sound quality IDE! • Personalized OPEN NOW: noise canceling PROFESSIONAL DOCTORS Call XXX-XXX-XXXX to schedule your safeSTAFF in-personOF appointment today! OF AUDIOLOGY Practice NameOUR aids for any the sound of Paradise.

Only available at Street Addressto smartphones, TV • Connects &and LICENSED HEARING AID more PhonakSPECIALISTS Audéo Paradise of America City, State • Empowering smart apps Total with • Introducing 24 hours onParadise, a single environment with controlWebsite Phonak Audéo™ delivering an unrivaled Rated ALL LOCATIONS hearing experience.

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LO charge with a motion sensor, speech and NT Address your wonder of sound with LIA Street COMPCD L your smartphone.

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NO MORE OFFICE VISITS! ANYWHERE!

• Crisp, natural sound • Unrivaled sound quality • Personalized noise canceling • Connects to smartphones, TV and more • Empowering smart apps

NO MORE OFFICE VISITS!

• Crisp, natural sound • Unrivaled sound quality • Personalized noise canceling • Connects to smartphones, TV and more • Empowering smart apps

Phonak Audéo Paradise

Phonak Audéo Paradise

Free hearing screening | Free 30-day trial | Free live demonstration of the NEW Phonak Audéo Paradise

Call XXX-XXX-XXXX to schedule your safe in-person appointment today!

[PRACTICE LOGO]

SMART PHONE APP EliteHearing Hearing Centers Elite Centers of America Elite Hearing Centers

REC

[PRACTICE PHOTO OR MAP]

Practice Name Street Address

Free hearing screening | Free 30-day trial | Free live demonstration of the NEW Phonak Audéo Paradise City, State Website

The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc.

ALL LOCATIONS CDC COVID COMPLIANT

[PRACTICE LOGO] [PRACTICE LOGO]

© 2020 Sonova AG. All rights reserved. MS-XXXXXX. 250NEWh

[PRACTICE PHOTO OR MAP]

Practice Name Street Address City, State Website

[PRACTICE PHOTO OR MAP]

[PRACTICE LOGO]

The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. © 2020 Sonova AG. All rights reserved. MS-XXXXXX. 250NEWh

The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc.

of America OPEN Adjust your NOW: hearing Rated OPEN NOW:

© 2020 Sonova AG. All rights reserved. MS-XXXXXX. 250NEWh

[PRACTICE PHOTO OR MAP]

• Fully charge in A3TIOhours • Crisp, natural sound NWIDE!

The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc.

© 2020 Sonova AG. All rights reserved. MS-XXXXXX. 250NEWh TIONS L LOCAus Month Date–Date, 2020 and receive: ALJoin • Unrivaled sound quality OVER COVID screening | Free 30-day trial | Free live demonstration CDC hearing Free of the NEW Phonak Audéo Paradise COMPLIANT • Personalized noise canceling LO

50 CATIONS SOUTH CAROLINA LICENSE NUMBERS: HTP-1029, HTP-1024, HTP-1031, HTP-1023, HAS-0573, HAS-0642, HAS-0637, HAS- 0638, HAS-0633 GEORGIA LICENSE NUMBERS: HADS000995, HADS000996, HADS001001, HADS001003 OUR PROFESSIONAL OF OF DELRAY ROYAL PALM BEACH Call XXX-XXX-XXXX to scheduleBEACH your safeSTAFF in-person appointment today! TV Nand AAUDIOLOGY Tmore IO • Connects toDOCTORS smartphones, NWIDE! & LICENSED HEARING AID SPECIALISTS 561-501-4392 561-631-8757 BRADENTON

any OPEN NOW: 4900 Linton Blvd #3• Empowering smart apps 11985 Southern Blvd • 24 ho environment with 941-201-6076 (In between Poppies Restaurant and (Publix at Crestwood Square Kristi Cleaners) - next to Carter Healthcare) 2001 Manatee Avenue E. your smartphone.

Ste 104 Rediscover your wondercharg of sou BOYNTON BEACH JUPITER of America 561-619-9274 561-529-3011 (Bradenton Pain and 4739 N Congress Ave 6725 West Indiantown Rd Phonak Audéo Paradise Rated Wellness Center) (In between Dollar Tree Bay 39

Dealerfor aids

Only available at

Elite Hearing Centers

SARASOTA 941-210-4310

2807 University Pkwy In Publix Plaza at University Walk

[PRACTICE LOGO]

[PRACTICE PHOTO OR MAP]

Practice Name Street Address City, State Website

The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc.

ALL LOCATIONS CDC COVID PLIANT COM SOUTH CAROLINA LICENSE NUMBERS: HTP-1029, HTP-1024, HTP-1031, HTP-1023, HAS-0573, HAS-0642, HAS-0637, HAS- 0638, HAS-0633

© 2020 Sonova AG. All rights reserved. MS-XXXXXX. 250NEWh

Authorized

Dealer

and Fon Shan Chinese)

OPEN NOW: Only available at

SOUTH CAROLINA LICENSE NUMBERS: HTP-1029, HTP-1024, HTP-1031, HTP-1023, HAS-0573, HAS-0642, HAS-0637, HAS- 0638, HAS-0633

• Fully

OVER 50 (In Jupiter West Plaza)

LO2020 CATIOand Join us Month Date–Date, N receive: NATIONW S IDdemonstration Free hearing screening | Free 30-day trial | Free live of E!

GEORGIA LICENSE NUMBERS: HADS000995, HADS000996, HADS001001, HADS001003

GEORGIA LICENSE NUMBERS: HADS000995, HADS000996, HADS001001, HADS001003

380359-1

Authorized

OUR PROFESSIONAL Call XXX-XXX-XXXX to schedule your safeSTAFF in-personO

& LICENSED HEARIN

32

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

AIDS HEARING O ARE TO E EXPENSIV

I ONLY HAVE TROUBLE IN NOISY ENVIRONMENT S

G HEARIN LOSS

HEARING A DON’T W IDS ORK

EVERYONE MUMBLES

IT’S TIME TO CONFRONT THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM...

AU RU M

TRY THE

FOR 30 DAYS ABSOLUTELY FREE

INVISIBLE

RECHARGEAB

LE

AT OUR

5 DAY SPECIAL EVENT

MONDAY, APRIL 25 – FRIDAY, APRIL 29

NO COST! NO OBLIGATION!

WE ALSO 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.

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

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

FREE

FREE

FREE

HEARING EXAM & CONSULTATION! NO OBLIGATION!

HEARING AID CHECK UP

VIDEO EAR SCAN MAKES SURE IT’S NOT EAR WAX

OTHER DIGITAL SPECIALS LOWEST COST DIGITAL HEARING AIDS ANYWHERE 100% Digital ITE (In-the-Ear)

WAS $795

NOW 395 each

100% Digital Open-Fit BTE (Behind-the-Ear)

100% Digital CIC (Completely-in-Canal)

100% Micro CIC (Completely-in-Canal)

WAS $795

WAS $995

WAS $1995

NOW 395 each

$

NOW 495 each

$

Only available at

Elite Hearing Centers

$

NOW 595 each $

OUR PROFESSIONAL STAFF OF DOCTORS OF AUDIOLOGY & LICENSED HEARING AID SPECIALISTS

of America

Authorized

SARASOTA 941-210-4310

2807 University Pkwy In Publix Plaza at University Walk

Dealer

ALL LOCATIONS CDC COVID COMPLIANT

OVER 50 LOCATION NATIONW S IDE

OPEN NOW:

!

BRADENTON 941-201-6076

DELRAY BEACH 561-501-4392 4900 Linton Blvd #3 (In between Poppies Restaurant and Kristi Cleaners)

ROYAL PALM BEACH 561-631-8757 11985 Southern Blvd (Publix at Crestwood Square - next to Carter Healthcare)

(Bradenton Pain and Wellness Center)

BOYNTON BEACH 561-619-9274 4739 N Congress Ave (In between Dollar Tree and Fon Shan Chinese)

JUPITER 561-529-3011 6725 West Indiantown Rd Bay 39 (In Jupiter West Plaza)

2001 Manatee Avenue E. Ste 104

SOUTH CAROLINA LICENSE NUMBERS: HTP-1029, HTP-1024, HTP-1031, HTP-1023, HAS-0573, HAS-0642, HAS-0637, HAS- 0638, HAS-0633

GEORGIA LICENSE NUMBERS: HADS000995, HADS000996, HADS001001, HADS001003

380360-1

Rated

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

SUNRISE / SUNSET

FRIDAY, APRIL 15

Sunrise Sunset

High: 86 Low: 67 Chance of rain: 40%

33

THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

WEATHER

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

FORECAST

|

Thursday, April 14

7:06a

7:53p

Friday, April 15

7:05a

7:54p

Saturday, April 16

7:04a

7:54p

Sunday, April 17

7:03a

7:55p

SATURDAY, APRIL 16

Monday, April 18

7:02a

7:55p

High: 88 Low: 68 Chance of rain: 24%

Tuesday, April 19

7:01a

7:56p

Wednesday, April 20

7:00a

7:56p

MOON PHASES SUNDAY, APRIL 17 High: 86 Low: 68 Chance of rain: 24%

May 15 Full

May 22 Last

May 30 New

June 7 First

TIDES Highs Lows

Gary Wise captured this sunset and its reflection off Longboat Key.

Thursday, April 14

11:48a

11:52p

6:08a

6:19p

Friday, April 15

11:59a

—

6:34a

6:59p

Saturday, April 16

12:42a

12:15p

6:58a

7:41p

Sunday, April 17

1:35a

12:36p

7:19a

8:26p

Monday, April 18

2:32a

1:02p

7:37a

9:16p

Tuesday, April 19

3:39a

1:33p

7:49a

10:13p

Wednesday, April 20

5:19a

2:11p

7:40a

11:20p

Submit your photos at YourObserver.com/Weather. All submissions will be entered for the 2022-23 Weather and Nature photo contest. In February 2023, you will vote for your favorite photo, and the submission with the most votes will win a $500 gift card.

The Observer’s

Weather ENTER: &Nature

Sponsored by

YourObserver.com/contests KITCHEN | CABINETRY OUTDOOR PAVERS

379854-1

2022-23 PHOTO CONTEST

A REFLECTION OF NATURE’S BEAUTY

celebrity cipher “YBT EIKULWTKYLS GFC FE YBT LDYFX VH ... YF CT L NFVDT EFX YBT YXITHY VUTLH LKU UTTJTHY TWFYVFKH.” – GFTS ZXTM

“P’CA ZACAO OASNNG KAND NPVA P TSF S HYPNJ SHDBO. ILFD SZ SHDBO TYB YSXXAZAJ DB WA RLPDA GBLZU.” – FSBPOFA OBZSZ “SAKBAMHOHBALZ ZBJX YXLAV LKKXEOHAR VBYXBAX IBW CTB OTXP LWX ABC, ABO CTB PBS TBEX OTXP CHZZ GX BAX MLP.” – MXJBA IWLAFZHA © 2022 NEA, Inc.

Puzzle Three Clue: R equals G

54 Renaissance fair garb, maybe DOWN 58 Gooey mass 1 “I’m throwing something 61 Luigi’s brother to you!”

63 Have a snack 2 Healing program, 64 Secret supply familiarly 65 Soda, in some regions 3 “Am not!” retort 66 Loosely arrange 4 Light spray 68 Make again 5 Lemon coating 69 One may be named for 6 Continues rambling a scientist 7 Batter’s goal 70 Fairy tale’s second word 8 All’s partner 71 “We’re innocent!”

9 Finish, like a cake 72 “Imagine ...,” informally 10 Actress Seydoux 77 Places for pupils 11 Using gas but not 78 Fluffy carpet variety moving 79 Lawn mower brand 12 Coagulate 80 Thin paper 13 Fairy tale’s first word 81 Polo of “Meet the 14 Casual negative Parents” 15 Pull out of the ground 83 Name hidden in “sweet16 Accessory to have and heart” to hold 86 Alexa’s speaker 17 Folder for emails you 88 “In Pursuit of Flavor” wrote author Lewis 18 What can go on a drive 89 Tail action 24 Kind of diagram with 90 Sound paired with circles “Boo!” 25 Move, in Realtor lingo 91 Colon’s meaning in an 29 Its projectiles resemble analogy ©2022 Universal Uclick arrows 92 Acorn dropper 31 Junction point movie tournament?

32 Olympic weightlifter Wei 95 Gets into, like a cab?

ACROSS 34 Nina Garcia’s fashion 66 Cheadle of “Crash” 104 Post-WWII alliance 33 Corp. bigwig 1 Hinder, as your style 99 In particular magazine 67 Blackmailed into giving 105 Spanish house 34 Sicilian volcano 6 Medieval cup 100 “All yours” 35 Holey shoe up award money?

106 Aretha Franklin’s genre 35 Train sound, to a tot 11 App symbol 101 “Gotcha” 107 “Wipeout” channel 36 Disclaimer in a text 15 Golden State sch. where 36 What naughty people in 73 T. follower 102 Frill neighboring pews do?

74 Onesie fasteners 110 Answer requiring voice 37 Disclaimer in a text Angela Davis got an M.A. 103 Jazz legend Fitzgerald 75 ___-free water bottle recognition 38 As well 19 Aptly named American 42 Insurance filing 107 Unoriginal 45 Like highlighter colors 76 Manage somehow 112 Soda, in some regions 39 Disney collectibles Eagle sub-brand 108 Curl muscle, informally 46 Most August births 78 Resilient person 113 Hit the gas 40 ___ Grey tea 20 Proverbial amount of 109 Artery opener 47 Dolly’s sound 81 “___ little piggy ...”

116 Two-wheeled ride 41 Give one star, say prevention 110 “Yeah, sure!”

48 Person who trains you 82 Choose 117 Tub containing compli- 42 Tax pros 21 Octa- + one 111 DVR pioneer mentary fortune cookies? 43 Dog’s “kisses” 84 Mess (with) 22 Courtroom statement for St. Patrick’s Day? 112 Budget meeting VIPs 122 Apt anagram for “vile” 44 Bit of horseplay 85 One might be roasted 23 Second grader’s growth 53 Letter writing, e.g.

114 Poetic tributes 55 Make believe 87 Place for a pity party? 123 Norse god of mischief 49 ___ finger (thumb’s spurt?

115 Squished circle 56 Numeric Xbox model 93 Name that’s 119-Down 124 Sans-serif font neighbor) 26 Tiny puppy 117 Mont Blanc, e.g.

125 No longer on the table? 50 Necessity 57 Is selfish with backward 27 Moves a king multiple 118 “Pow!” 126 Award named for 59 Taps instrument 94 Light beige 51 “Hell’s Kitchen” conspaces 119 Name or savings plan actress Antoinette Perry 60 Milk option 96 85-Across’ platform testants 28 One of 12 on a die 120 Lousy egg?

127 (Over here!)

62 Hibernation spot 97 Relieves 52 Lead-in to “mackerel” 121 ___ bran 29 Terra ___ 128 Not glossy or shiny 98 Sweep the charades or “cow” 30 “Succession” network 64 It’s cast in a fantasy 129 Rested up

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

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

Puzzle Two Clue: V equals K

IN FOR IT by Scott Hogan and Christina Iverson. Edited by David Steinberg

Puzzle One Clue: M equals Y

crossword

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

©2022 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

4-14-22

Made for where you live. Here!

THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

RED PAGES INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888

RED PAGES AD RATES First 15 words ..................... $ 17.50 per week Each add’l word .......... 50¢

15% DISCOUNT FOR 4-WEEK RUN Color background: $ 5 per week Ad border: as low as $3 per week

Adult Care Services

redpages@yourobserver.com • yourobserver.com/redpages DEADLINES: Classifieds - Monday at 2PM

PLACE YOUR AD: Call: 941-955-4888 Email: RedPages@ YourObserver.com

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

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

Government PUBLIC NOTICE LOST OR ABANDONED PROPERTY Held by

Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals

Longboat Key Police Department 5460 Gulf of Mexico Dr.

WEEKLY MONTHLY

Perfect Solutions For Seniors

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

M-F Ask about our special rates!

BOAT STORAGE Slip For Rent Fits boat 8'6" wide, 8'6" tall and 31'6". Boat House on Longboat Key. (Dry Dock Restaurant).

Text or call: 404-918-3811

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE! 941-955-4888

auto

YourObserver.com/RedPages

Autos Wanted CASH FOR YOUR CAR We come to you!

Ho Ho Buys cars.

941-270-4400.

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

941809-3660, 941-809-3662.

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

Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

Homes for Sale LONGBOAT KEY Incredible views Private boat dock Owner/agent $650,000 Buy or Sell with Brooke O’Malley as your Realtor, and CLUB REALTY will Pay your title insurance.

Call 941-726-2677.

Rentals Wanted SEAPLACE OWNERS Inquiring about a 2 or 3 bedroom rental for next (2023) season.

We are seeking an updated rental with a water view.

I was an original owner in G-5.

Contact with dates & photos. rnelson137@outlook.com

SELL IT FAST HERE!

This week’s Crossword answers

www.rentalsonlongboat.com

POST YOUR AD WITH EASE YourObserver.com/RedPages

Auto Transport

Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals

Cleaning

BEACH HARBOR CLUB, LONGBOAT KEY FLORIDA: 2 Bedrooms, 2 baths, 1,046 sq. ft. 3rd floor, water view.

Fully upgraded and equipped.

Walking distance to Sarasota Bay and Gulf. Rent is $2,0004,000/month. Contact (440)371-5008 lin44139@yahoo.com

CLAUDIA C. Cleaning Services.

Experienced, dependable, and ready to begin!

Residential.

Excellent references.

941-773-6895.

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

Great rates, fast quotes. Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421. ©2022 Universal Uclick

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

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

Free estimates. 941-744-1020.

35+ years experience.

Professional Services ANGELO'S LAWN Care. Mow, edge, string trim & blow. From $20/cut. Licensed & Insured.

941-217-9000

Transportation LONGBOAT LIMOUSINE

SELL YOUR STUFF FOR FREE!

Your local luxury transportation provider since 1994.

New luxury Sedans and SUVs. Fully Licenced and insured.

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “The fundamental job of the actor is ... to be a voice for the truest ideas and deepest emotions.”

Joel Grey Puzzle Two Solution: “I’ve never really felt like I was a child actor. Just an actor who happened to be quite young.”

Saoirse Ronan Puzzle Three Solution: “Unconditional love means accepting someone for who they are now, not who you hope they will be one day.”

DeVon Franklin

This week’s Sudoku answers

Call/Text 941-383-1235

Items Up to $200

E-mail: longboatlimousine @yahoo.com

©2022 NEA, Inc.

YourObserver.com/RedPages

ISLANDER CLUB LBK, on the beach. Beautiful, direct gulf view from all rooms. 1,300 sq. ft., 2BR/2BA. Available after October 1st. Rent is $7,400-8,200 depending on the number of months. Prefer 4+ months.

773-456-5768

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

Auto Service

Beauty SERVING YOU IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME

SELL YOUR CAR!

380070

Boat Slips for Rent/Sale

Phone (941) 809-1438

You’re only cheating yourself.

TWIN BED sturdy, hickory, amish.

Comes with luxury foam mattress.

Breaks down easily. Slightly used. $100. 941-960-9380

CHARLES D Collums DBA Advanced Appraisal Services.

FAST • EASY • SAFE

WE COME TO YOU

941.270.4400

HoHoBuysCars.com

5-Star Rated

AMANDA 424-333-0713 | rockstarmobilehair@gmail.com 378819

PET STROLLER for cat or small to medium dog $50 386-676-7401

FOR RENT (Summer at the Beach) – Anna Maria Island Updated 5 Star Condo - Available May to November. (Monthly with Multi-month discount) Million$ water view, first floor, 2BR/2BA, walk to beach, pool, tennis, carport included. Smoke free.

Call or Email NOW: 570-239-0431 rentamiwaterview@aol.com

tivities * Hourly 24/7 Care -Affordable Rates * Licensed/ Bonded/ Insured

Fictitious Names

Since 1939

home services

LEFT HANDED golf clubs. Plus bag. Used. 347-564-9897

Condos/Apts. for Rent

* Assistance with Daily Living Ac-

HHA# 299994819

Wagner Realty

Items Under $200

*Caregivers/Companions *Personal Care * CNA’s/HHA’s

peekers’ place

real estate

stuff

SEASONAL Rates Beachfront, Bayfront and In

THE LONGBOAT KEY POLICE DEPARTMENT IS HOLDING SEVERAL FIREARMS RECEIVED AS FOUND PROPERTY DURING THIS TIME PERIOD OF 01-01-2000 THRU 04-05-2022.

IF NOT CLAIMED BY OWNERS, ITEMS SHALL BE DISPOSED OF AS AUTHORIZED BY F.S.S.705.103. INQUIRES 941-361-1976 x1928

www.rockstarmobilehairsalon.com

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

$100 COUPON

DRIES IN HOURS – NOT DAYS • SATISFACTION GUARANTEED

941-778-2882 • 941-387-0607

Health 379550

GET YOUR LIFE BACK!

Check out our 5 Star Reviews on Google

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Do You Have Neck or Low Back Pain?

Do You Want To Avoid Surgery?

Concrete CRACK REPAIR

941-CLEAN IT 2 5 3 - 2 6 4 8 FREE INSTANT ESTIMATES when you Call RICK for SCHEDULING

Pressure Washing

Pressure Washing

Honesty, Integrity and Pride

Recognized Among the Best Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Physicians in America

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

• Deck/Paver And Much More

378897

DR. DAVID CIFRA, DC University Health Park 2415 University Parkway Bldg. 3, Suite 216 Sarasota, FL 34243

Doors

941-544-1066

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

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

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.com

Sliding Glass Door Repair

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

Insurance

379537

Dog Grooming

941-345-5264

specialty screens / screw replacement / paint

MIC INSURANCE

“FIX IT - DON’T REPLACE”

Doors and more!

Roofing

Manufacture and workmanship Warranties

EXPERIENCE KNOWLEDGE SOLUTIONS

(941) 345-5264 Kenneth Fuhlman Inc.

Building & Roofing Contractor

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

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

941-626-3194

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

Licensed & Insured CCC - 058059 CBC - 1253936

Windows

RED PAGES Bring Results | 941-955-4888

378339

Res./Com.

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

Form Serving Longboat Key Since 2005

Massage

Furniture Repair

Patio Furniture Repairs.com Furniture Sales & Repairs Cushions • Slings • Re-powdercoating

Chrissy Stites

380107

LMT, CMCE

FREE PICKUP / DELIVERY • FREE ONSITE QUOTES

609-820-4251

By appointment only

STANDARD WINDOWS

ows

140

$

INCLUDING SCREENS, TRACKS, MIRRORS & FANS

SPECIAL 00

Find anything in the RED PAGES

Neighborhood

25

UP TO

MediCupping & Massage Therapy services for healing

Rest your mind & body.

Connect with your spirit.

Lic./Ins.

& Pressure C Window lean t e s ing as Sunrise Wi n w o n k Sun y l nd er

379529

941-955-4888

5

Personal Services

$

heroes found here.

Relax. You’ve got better things to do. Find a professional here in the Observer Red Pages.

Closer is better.

senior citizen discount. www.sunsetwindowcleaningsrq.com

379546

Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES | 941- 284 - 5880

941-955-4888

YourObserver.com/RedPages

379548

Purified water window cleaning available!!

RED PAGES

BOOST YOUR BUSINESS

Showcase your products or services each week in the Red Pages.

CALL 941-955-4888

Insurance

SECUR-ALL INSURANCE AGENCY

Sandra Smith

| 941.383.3388

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

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

378948

380109

Home • Condo • Auto • Umbrella • Boat • Flood Registered member of the National Dog Groomers Association of America (NDGAA)

| scaperotta@aol.com

Italian American Owned

379541

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

BEFORE

AFTER

Serving Sarasota/Manatee Area Since 2004

Board Certified in the specialty of non-surgical spinal decompression

378327

CONCRETE FUSION

941-504-0903

House Washing, Roofs, Screen Cages, Pavers, Driveways and Walkways.

FREE CONSULTATION 941.358.2224

BUZ CORP D/B/A

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

WE ARE THE SOFT WASH PRESSURE WASHING PROS

379116

379535

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

PRESSURE WASHING

Give Us a Call - We Can Help

SIDEWALKS • DRIVEWAYS #1 in IR REPA Crack 5%

SOFT WASH

$100 COUPON

Serving AMI, LBK and Bradenton for 25 years

$100 COUPON

379539

$100 COUPON $100 COUPON

GladysKhabbaz@gmail.com 805 Molly Circle, Sarasota

$100 COUPON

$100 COUPON

CONSTRUCTION HANDYMAN • Home Repairs & Maintenance • Interior & Exterior 941.504.2745 • Garage Floor Paint 941.400.1563 • Power Wash

Naji Aoun

CARPET, TILE, UPHOLSTERY CLEANING ODOR CONTROL • AREA RUG SPECIALIST

Power Washing $100 COUPON $100 COUPON

378893

Handyman

35

THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

$100 COUPON

Carpet Cleaning

|

LONGBOAT OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

ROGER SELLS LUXURY WATERFRONT PROPERTIES MORE THAN $206 MILLION CLOSED IN 2021

3731 INDIAN BEACH PLACE

$6,495,000

Built in 2006, this gorgeous 5BR estate offers exceptionally high quality construction, designed with energy efficient and sustainable materials. The enviable central locale minutes from downtown, plus spectacular bay and sunset views perfectly complement the lavishness at this custom residence.

www.3731IndianBeach.com

1211 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #403

$1,250,000

Beautiful direct views of the lush community grounds and azure Gulf waves are the perfect welcome to this 4th-floor Promenade residence. Offered furnished, with one parking space and private storage locker. The open floor plan is a sunny retreat featuring walls of glass sliders in multiple rooms that open to the terrace.

www.Promenade403.com

5207 HIDDEN HARBOR ROAD

$3,795,000

1835 LINCOLN DRIVE

$2,995,000

842 MOLLY CIRCLE

This well-maintained, 4,600+ SF, waterfront home in the sought-after Siesta Key neighborhood of Hidden Harbor is ideally located close to the best that Sarasota offers.

Southern exposure West of the Trail!

Gorgeous updates are the star of the show inside and out at this beautiful 4BR waterfront home resting along Hudson Bayou.

Delight in the convenience of newer construction at this 2016-built, Ashton Woods home in the maintenance-free Whitaker Park (lawn maintenance and irrigation provided by HOA).

www.5207HiddenHarbor.com

www.1835LincolnDrive.com

www.3533FairOaksLane.com

15111 GADDY UP RANCH ROAD

$3,995,000

862 GRANDE PASS WAY

$2,995,000

3060 GRAND BAY BOULEVARD #112

Country breezes rustling through century old oaks and pines welcome you to this unique, 82.5-acre property known as the Gaddy Up Ranch, offering many possibilities.

Create your dream beach home at this private, gated enclave on the southern tip of Boca Grande. Offering more than a 1/4-acre in the exclusive Hill Tide Estates community.

This 3BR sun drenched getaway at Grand Bay is in ideal condition, featuring bay views, open-plan layout adorned with walls of glass sliders that lead out to the spacious wraparound terrace.

www.GaddyUpRanchSRQ.com

www.862GrandePassWay.com

www.GrandBay112.com

$640,000

$1,450,000

CALL TODAY FOR YOUR EXCLUSIVE TOUR (941) 387-1840 443 John Ringling Boulevard, Suite F | Sarasota, FL 34236 595 Bay Isles Road, Suite 250 | Longboat Key, FL 34228 Pettingell.com Twitter.com/RealRoger | Instagram.com/RogerPettingell | Roger@Pettingell.com Owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC 379684-1

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