Longboat Observer 6.12.25

LONGBOAT

Haye! New owners

Observer

PAGE 22

Longboat Key’s weekly newspaper since 1978

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

VOLUME 47, NO. 43

YOUR TOWN

Library puts a name on it U.S. House Rep. Vern Buchanan secures naming rights with donation. SEE PAGE 4

Carlin Gillen

Susan Phillips and Town Manager Howard Tipton

Town receives communication excellence awards The Florida Municipal Communicators Association recognized the town of Longboat Key and Susan Phillips, assistant to the town manager and public information officer, for exemplary work in local government communications.

It’s the town’s first communications excellence award, according to a press release.

The town received a Certificate of Excellence in Government Communications, and Phillips received a Certificate of Excellence — Local Government Communicator.

Phillips is one of 18 individuals in Florida recognized for the award, according to Town Manager Howard Tipton.

Beachy clean Mote sponsors community cleanup. SEE PAGE 12

Dana Kampa

Kelli Anderson and Wendy Stearns

Manasota cleanup

Mother Nature treated volunteers at last weekend’s community cleanup at Overlook Park to a special sight, as participants spotted a manatee just offshore while they picked up litter.

The Manasota Track Club held its quarterly adopt-a-road cleanup the morning of June 7 after a brisk 8 a.m. group run.

Club President Rob Loeffler said, “We just use it as another excuse to get out and run. It gives us an opportunity to A, get together, and B, get some mileage in.”

Loeffler invites anyone in the community to join the club’s efforts to keep the gateway to Longboat Key litter-free and hopefully enjoy a moment like the manatee spotting.

Cleanup dates are posted on the Manasota Track Club page on Facebook.

Dana Kampa

Volunteer Claudine Waigenfeld holds up a discarded plastic bag, which can be detrimental to a sea turtle mistaking it for food, during World Ocean Day.

The town of Longboat Key owns the land where the Longboat Library operates.

A+E

$0.10

Dana Kampa

SPACE RACE

Town plans on study for suitable building needs.

SEE PAGE 3

Ann Morrison reigns.

PAGE 13

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

WEEK OF JUNE 12, 2025

Solid waste price increase

“We want to design spaces that are going to give our team a workspace they can be proud of and help us be more efficient.”

At the town commission’s June 9 meeting, commissioners approved a minor rate increase from Waste Management, the town’s solid waste removal provider.

It’s about a 1.52% increase due to inflation. For residential properties, it’s a 27 cent increase from $22.60 to $22.87 per month.

Multifamily units and commercial properties will also face the 1.52% increase.

Last year, Waste Management requested a 28% increase in fees and cited rising economic conditions.

When the commission approved the increase, the agreement stipulated that Waste Management would not receive any more increases until June 30, 2025. Further, any increases after that would be limited to 3% per year.

The town is approaching the end of its contract with Waste Management in June 2027.

Town Manager Howard Tipton said the town would start the solicitation process next year for solid waste providers.

Town Manager Howard Tipton on the town’s upcoming discussions about staff space. Read more on page 3

BY THE NUMBERS $1 MILLION

Pledge from U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan for the enhanced Sarasota County library on Longboat Key PAGE 4

400,000

Trips taken in 2024 through Sarasota County’s OnDemand service PAGE 6

34

Employees at Euphemia Haye, all of whom worked there before it temporarily closed PAGE 22

Commission meeting changes in June

CALENDAR

n Planning and Zoning

Board Meeting — 9:15 a.m., Tuesday, June 17, Longboat Key Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road n Let’s Talk Longboat — 3 p.m., Tuesday, June 17, Bayfront Park Recreation Center, 4052 Gulf of Mexico Drive n Special Magistrate Hearing — 9 a.m., Friday, June 20, Longboat Key Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road

Courtesy photo

About 50 people showed up to Longboat Key Turtle Watch’s first public walk of the 2025 season.

Successful first turtle walk of 2025

T

he turtles around Longboat Key are already off to a strong start, and Longboat Key Turtle Watch followed suit with a good start to the group’s public summer walks.

On June 7, Longboat Key Turtle Watch held it’s first public turtle walk and had about 50 people attend.

Longboat Key Turtle Watch Vice President Cyndi Seamon said it was a good turnout she hopes will continue throughout the summer.

Every Saturday morning at 6:45 a.m., Longboat Key Turtle Watch volunteers take anyone interested on a walk down some of Longboat’s beach to look for signs of nesting.

Along the walk, some of Longboat Key Turtle Watch’s volunteers discuss sea turtle conservation, history and the work the organization does alongside Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

As of June 7, Mote’s numbers show there are 453 nests on

Longboat Key, on par with this time last year, which had 420 nests. In Mote’s entire territory — which runs from Longboat Key to Venice — there are 1,756 nests.

For anyone interested in joining Longboat Key Turtle Watch’s public walks, the group starts at 6:45 a.m. every Saturday morning in June and July. The group meets at the public beach access point at 4795 Gulf of Mexico Drive. All ages are welcome.

The town commission voted on June 9 to approve several changes to meetings at the end of the month.

On June 23, a special budget workshop has been pushed back to start at 10:30 a.m. to allow time for the “Farewell to the Final Pole” celebration at 9 a.m. that same day.

Also, the regular workshop previously scheduled for later in the day on June 23 is canceled.

The commission’s full meeting schedule can be found on the “Event Calendar” tab at LongboatKey.org.

Correction:

The town’s farewell celebration to one of the final overhead utility poles will be held at 9 a.m. on Monday, June 23, at the Public Safety Complex (5490 Gulf of Mexico Drive).

443912-1

TABS

W HAT ’S HAPPENING

2

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

SPACE SHIFT 1

Longboat Key officials plan to embark on a facility study to see what space is available, and what may be needed, to accommodate town staff.

Public Works

n Built in 2001 n Cost around $1.75

million n $100,000 in FY27, $610,000 in FY28 to advance the development of an expansion to the existing Public Works building

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

T

here isn’t much free space available on Longboat Key, but town officials want to explore how to create a little more elbow room for various department employees.

Longboat Key officials hope to hire a consultant to perform a facility planning analysis to determine what upgrades the town needs to accommodate its 134 employees. Potential upgrades could include a new shared office building and a Public Works expansion.

Town Manager Howard Tipton said the town is recommending about $10,000 to be used in fiscal year 2026 for this study — a small price to pay, but one that could shed light on the town’s space needs.

“It’s not a big effort, but we want to be able to justify any of the costs that come up. Building out here is not cheap, especially when you have to elevate,” Tipton said. “Hopefully, the facility study that we want to do will help us nail down what the most optimum combination of things would be.”

In 1994, the town hired Maddox & Associates Architects to conduct a similar spatial study that led to new buildings like town hall, public works and the police department.

The buildings cost $2.1 million for town hall, $1.75 million for public works and $1.5 million for the police department. Those buildings opened between 2001 and 2003.

Now, Tipton said it’s time for another look at how the town can best use the space it has or build more.

“We want to design space for the long term,” Tipton said. “We want to design spaces that are going to give our team a workspace they can be proud of and help us be more efficient.”

1

2

2

Police Department

n Built in 2001 n Cost around

$1.5 million n $1.3 million expansion fell through in 2024

3

4

3

EXTRA SHARED-USE FACILITY FOR IT, HR AND POLICE

Bayfront Park Recreation Center

n Moved from the Far Horizons resort to the current location in 1984, and the town of Longboat Key took over ownership in 1994 n In 2003, a $6 million renovation of the center was rejected by 67.6% of voters n Construction of Bayfront Park lasted from 2016 to 2017, and residents again pushed back on rebuilding the recreation center. The project was $3.5 million, not including the center

4

Town Hall

n Built in 2001-2002 n In 2001, it cost around

$2,136,193 n In December, the town embarked on a town hall hardening project to upgrade and hurricane-proof the facility. The project cost about $1.37 million.

File photos

One of the preliminary ideas Tipton shared after conversations with staff is a new building shared among departments like Information Technology, Human Resources and the Police Department.

And there’s already a spot in mind: the Longboat Library land.

It’s not a definitive choice yet, but Tipton said it could provide the opportunity to repurpose that building for town uses. The town owns the land and leases the building to the private Longboat Library, which will likely close in 2027 when the new Sarasota County library opens at the Town Center Green.

The Longboat Library is located at 555 Bay Isles Road, directly behind the Longboat Key Town Hall and the Planning, Zoning and Building Department building.

At the town’s first budget workshop on May 19, town staff presented an early estimate of $2.3 million for a new building with no specific fiscal year listing.

It’s possible a consulting firm may recommend rehabbing the current building, but Tipton said it would need some major upgrades, like an HVAC system for IT and some way to deal with flooding.

The IT Department is currently in the Planning, Zoning and Building Department. With a new office space, Tipton said the IT Department could move to the new building and give the PZB Department a little more space.

Director of the Planning, Zoning and Building Department Allen Parsons doesn’t think his department needs a whole new building, but said having a little more space could be beneficial where they could share among other departments.

“In conjunction with other needs the town has, we could definitely use the space,” Parsons said.

Having more space in the PZB building could allow for more personable interactions, too, which could add to the town’s value of cus-

tomer service.

“I think we could be more efficient; I think we can be more effective,” Tipton said. “And I think it has the ability to improve our customer service.”

Human Resources is another department that could benefit from some more space. It is now in the main town hall office area, but Tipton feels HR should have a more private office space when dealing with sensitive matters.

Tipton also sees the possibility of the Longboat Key Police Department using some of the space in a new building.

There was consideration to expand the police department, but funding fell through in 2024, and the plans were set aside. Tipton now doesn’t believe adding to the police department building is a smart move.

“Adding space to the police department building makes no sense,” Tipton said. “We have such limited parking and we need all of that. We can’t just take out 15 spaces for an expanded building.”

But the police personnel could use space, too, mainly for a new driving training simulator and other training exercises. For some training, Tipton said officers need to go off-island, which could take an officer off patrol for several hours in season.

PUBLIC WORKS EXPANSION

Further north is the Public Works Department building on General Harris Street.

If he could, Tipton said he would go back and change the location of the building. General Harris is in one of the town’s lowest-lying areas, which proves challenges during rainy days and storms.

But that building could benefit from a little more space, too. Here, Tipton said an expansion makes more sense.

In 2001, the building’s construction was complete and, to Tipton’s knowledge, the original plans included a conference room and additional office space. The final plan nixed those rooms.

Based on previous experiences in other municipalities, Tipton said a Public Works Department thrives with a dedicated meeting space to plan out objectives, or a “war room.”

“I’ve never had a public works facility that doesn’t have a ‘war room’ where you can put some maps on a wall,” Tipton said. “They don’t have that, and I think it would be helpful for them.”

BAYFRONT PARK RECREATION CENTER

Somewhat related to the idea of space is the Bayfront Park Recreation Center.

The building moved to its current location in 1984 from the Far Horizons resort. The town then took ownership in 1994.

Plans for a rebuild of the center fluctuated since then, including a $6 million plan in 2003 that was rejected by 67.6% of voters.

In 2016, Bayfront Park received a major upgrade with help from Sarasota County, but there was opposition for renovations to the recreation center.

Over the years, the town invested smaller amounts in roof upgrades, cosmetic repairs and other improvements as needed, but Tipton said it’s time to take a serious look at alternatives for the building.

“I think within the next five to seven years, that building is going to start getting to the point where it may not be safe,” Tipton said. “We’re either going to take it down or we’re going to do something. We can’t do nothing.”

The town has some older designs in hand, but Tipton said any new rebuilds likely would not need to be as grand as previously imagined due to the Sarasota County library being constructed two miles south of Bayfront Park.

3

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

A draft rendering shows the view from the terrace, overlooking the Town Center Green.

Courtesy image

Longboat library will be named for Buchanan U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, since 2007, has donated $1 million to the project.

ERIC GARWOOD DIGITAL NEWS EDITOR

U

.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan is the sole million-dollar donor to the collaborative project between Sarasota County and Longboat Key to build a combination library and community space on the island municipality’s Town Center Green.

Announced hours after Sarasota County commissioners approved an agreement that would allow naming rights for the library to go to the million-dollar donor, the town confirmed Wednesday that donor was Buchanan, who has represented the region in Congress since 2007. That region has shifted over the years, though. His 16th District now encompasses nearly all of Manatee County and a segment of Hillsborough and none of Sarasota County.

Buchanan and his wife, Sandy,

have lived in Longboat Key for four decades.

“Sandy and I have been looking for an opportunity to give back to our Longboat community, and when this project was presented to us, it was a perfect match,” Buchanan said in a statement. “We are all about community and this space will be a gathering place for Longboat residents and visitors for generations to come.”

Though commissioners unanimously approved the naming-rights agreement, the donor had not been publicly identified until Longboat Key’s announcement.

“Without giving anything away, I will say that what I’ve heard ... The person being considered contributed tremendously to our area and to Longboat Key,” Commissioner Mark Smith, who represents the Sarasota County portion of the island town on the commission, said at the commission meeting.

Since 2021, the town and the county have been working together on building a public library on the south end of the Town Center Green.

The county is funding the $11 million construction of the library — similar to other community libraries around Sarasota. The town, through private donations of $3.5 million, is funding additional space intended to be used as community space.

That’s where the donors come in.

In a letter to the County Commission, Town Manager Howard Tipton wrote the donations come with a series of understandings: n $1 million (of which there is one donor): would come with the opportunity to name the building for the building’s useful life n $500,000 (of which there is one donor): would name both the indoor and outdoor community spaces, referred to as the community hall, also for the spaces’ useful lives n The space to recognize other

project donors Because these requests are atypical of the county’s naming-rights conventions, county commission approval was required.

“Congressman Buchanan has through his public service brought home to our town and this region hundreds of millions of federal dollars,” Mayor Ken Schneier said.

“Now, he and his wife, Sandy, are leading our Community Hall campaign with our largest single gift and we received approval today from the Sarasota County Commission to have this wonderful facility named in their honor.”

Tipton said the private donations in the bank now total about $1 million, with between $1.2 million to $1.5 million expected to be deposited by the end of the year. The remainder of the $3.1 million now committed is expected over the next five years, potentially along with the last $400,000 to reach the target of $3.5 million.

“That finish line is right within sight,” he said, adding the fundraising campaign that started last August was interrupted by 2024’s devastating hurricanes and didn’t resume until February.

Still, he said, the town is committed to backing the remaining pledges to ensure the project can continue.

“It’s been an interesting journey so far.”

Tipton said he expects the remaining donated funds are to be banked following the construction progress, beginning with a groundbreaking in spring 2026, through completion in late 2027 and the million-dollar donor’s final installments by the end of 2029.

Donations up to $24,999 would be due by the end of 2025. From $25,000 to $249,999 donations can span over two years; $250,000 to $999,999 over three years and $1 million and higher donations had the leeway to pay over five years.

“I think the revenues are going to be there for you,” Tipton said.

The vision for the library is for an educational and leisure resource and also as a gathering spot for classes, events and other activities for which there is no current central location.

“It’s been a long time coming. It’s going to be a wonderful facility,” Commissioner Tom Knight said.

PLEASED TO MEET YOU Hope to guess the names of other landmarks around Longboat Key? No need, we’ve done it for you. n The Karon Family Pavilion: In the heart of the Town Center Green, the pavilion was named in 2021 for Paul and Sarah Karon, the primary donors to fund the pavilion. They pledged to donate up to $500,000 in exchange for naming rights for the pavilion. n Greer Island: Affectionately known among locals as Beer Can Island, the popular north-end spot (it’s not really an island) is named for Homer and Mary Greer, though it was Frank and Marjorie Conrad who deeded the land to the state for public use in 1974. n Joan M. Durante Park: James Durante approached the town in 1994 to offer $750,000 to develop a park and restore the property to honor his late wife, Joan. n Whitney Beach: The north-end enclave was named for pioneering residents Gordon and Lara Whitney. n Spanish explorers: Among them, streets named for Juan Anasco and Panfilo de Narvaez.

GO WILD AT CRITTER CAMP!

We Serve All Families

Experts In Celebrating Life

SCIENCE LESSONS | GUEST SPEAKERS CRAFTS | CATS | AGES 7-13 REGISTRATION NOW OPEN 2542 17TH ST, SARASOTA, FL 34234

CATDEPOT.ORG

Why Leave the Key...

Serving Longboat Key for over 10 Years

443948-1

If you or a family you know would like to discuss options for services, cremation, Life Story Celebrations, or returning to their home state up north, we have answers available.

Michael J.O’Neil DDS FAGD Conveniently Located on Longboat Key

595 Bay Isles Road, Suite 110 | Longboat Key, FL 34228 Located behind the Publix

941.383.6400 | www.LongboatKeyDental.com

ROBERT TOALE & SONS FUNERAL HOME AT MANASOTA MEMORIAL PARK 1221 53rd Ave East Bradenton, FL 34203

BRADENTON 941-755-2688

ROBERT TOALE & SONS CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTER

ROBERT TOALE & SONS CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTER

LAKEWOOD RANCH 941-932-8100

SARASOTA 941-921-5755

4310 Solutions Lane Bradenton, FL 34211

7454 S Tamiami Trl Sarasota, FL 34231

ROBERT TOALE & SONS FUNERAL HOME AT PALMS MEMORIAL PARK 170 Honore Ave Sarasota, FL 34232

SARASOTA 941-371-4962

PUBLIC NOTICES The Sarasota/Siesta Key, East County and Longboat Observers meet the legal requirements to publish legal and public notices in Sarasota & Manatee counties, per F.S. 50.011.

www.RTSfunerals.com Not affiliated with Toale Brothers Funeral Home or Toale Brothers Inc.

Circulation Verified Council 12166 Old Big Bend Road, Suite 210 | St Louis, MO 63122 314-966-7111 | www.cvcaudit.com

444099-1

AUDITOR INFORMATION 440576-1

4

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

Commission finds consensus on canal maintenance combining ad valorem and non ad valorem assessments.

File image

Longboat Key commissioners continue to meet about a fair canal maintenance tax for town residents.

WATER WEIGHT

Despite needing further tweaking, the method shows an approximate 80/20 split between direct and indirect benefits. The method also distinguishes properties through Equivalent Benefit Units, or how many waterway access units — like docks — a property has.

Founding Partner and Project Manager for First Line Coastal Mark Stroik is the town’s chief consultant on the program. He said the split may not be exactly 80/20, but it would be close.

About 20% of the funds would come from ad valorem tax through an islandwide millage. The other 80% would come from non ad valorem taxes, which would be direct assessments on properties that directly benefit from canals.

Properties with direct access also pay based on EBUs. For example, a residential property on a canal with one boat lift would have one EBU,

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

L

ongboat Key town commissioners unanimously directed town staff to move forward with one of the funding methods for a canal dredging program at the commission’s June 9 meeting.

After years of discussion and investigations into different possibilities, the latest direction is a significant update in the canal dredging program saga.

CANAL TAX BREAKDOWN Access Direct

Parcels 4,199

Ad Valorem $209,552

Non Ad Valorem $1,401,159

Nondirect

5,900

$403,080

$0

whereas a commercial marina may have 21 EBUs. Given those estimates, the singlefamily residential unit on the canal could pay around $714.10 annually for the first five years. A commercial marina with 21 units could pay $13,007.80 per year.

In previous meetings about the canal program, there was a millageonly option, which Stroik and town staff decided would no longer be considered.

“We felt as a group that was going in the opposite direction of our goal, which was to provide something simple,” Stroik said.

In September 2024, the commission directed First Line to look into another option, which Stroik presented at the June 9 meeting.

This option would impose a flat rate on properties based on direct benefit and EBUs. All properties would pay about $63 per year, then properties with direct benefit would pay about $613 per EBU in addition to the $63.

While this method proved simpler to explain, Stroik said it was an unfair allocation of cost because it does not take into account taxable values.

“What we were finding is that

the most expensive properties on the island were saving quite a bit of money, whereas some of the lowest valued properties were actually having to contribute a little bit more and have to make up that difference,” Stroik said.

Stroik emphasized the 80/20 split with non ad valorem and ad valorem tax would be First Line’s official recommendation. The chart below is an example of what the annual funding would look like.

No matter when the town decides to start imposing the method, it would take about five years to collect the funds necessary to start the dredge.

Director of Public Works Charlie Mopps said the required seagrass mitigation is driving much of the hefty cost associated with this initial dredge. After the first five years and the initial dredge to rebaseline canals, Mopps said the program would target canals as needed.

“After the first five years, these assessment values can start to go down,” Mopps said.

Estimates for the initial dredge were about $4.58 million and an additional $3.6 million for environmental mitigation. That’s about $9.25 million all in.

Commissioner-At-Large Steve Branham said he’s heard from residents who are anxious to get the dredging started sooner rather than later.

“There are some people out there complaining, and there are several areas on the island which desperately need dredging,” Branham said. “(Those residents) would be happy if we start tomorrow. So I’m wondering if there’s a way, if there’s a source of funding, that could be used to help jumpstart this project.”

Town Manager Howard Tipton and Town Attorney Maggie Mooney told commissioners there is a possibility for a “bridge loan” that could help the town jumpstart the project sooner than five years.

Mooney reminded commissioners the town’s code allows it to take on a loan for less than $5 million without a referendum as long as it’s backed by non ad valorem revenue. For any

5

Carter Weinhofer

“I’ve talked to quite a few people in my neighborhood, and I think we’re pretty unanimous that keeping it simple is really a high value for us.”

— Jim Whitman, resident

larger loans or if it were backed by ad valorem revenue, a referendum would be required.

Resident Jim Whitman was one member of the public who spoke in favor of the 80/20 split.

“I’ve talked to quite a few people in my neighborhood, and I think we’re pretty unanimous that keeping it simple is really a high value for us,” Whitman said.

After some more discussion among the commission, Mayor Ken Schneier asked for a consensus to move forward with the 80/20 method.

The commission unanimously supported the method to move forward in refinement, but Vice Mayor Debra Williams asked the new method presented at the meeting be on the back burner.

Mopps said staff and First Line would likely come back in September after the commission’s summer recess to discuss community outreach options and further tax unit developments for the program.

If the commission wants to begin the canal taxes for next year, it would need to finalize the non ad valorem assessment by the end of 2025.

YOUR HOME OF DISTINCTION AWAITS Heritage Builders brings timeless luxury to your lifestyle.

Located in Sarasota’s most coveted neighborhoods.

BIRD KEY WATERFRONT

SIESTA KEY WATERFRONT

THE SAND DOLLAR · 118 N Warbler Lane, 34236

THE ISLANDER · 558 Venice Lane, 34242

$7,250,000 | 4,594 Sq. Ft. | 4 Bed | 5.5 Bath 3.5-Car Garage | Infinity Pool | VIP Suite | Study | MLS A4557763 Move-In Summer 2025

$4,985,000 | 4,170 Sq. Ft. | 4 Bed | 4.5 Bath 2-Car Garage | Pool & Spa | Media Room | Study | MLS A4589732 Move-In Late Fall 2025

OYSTER BAY

OYSTER BAY LAKEFRONT

THE SANIBEL II · 1401 Crocker Street, 34231

THE WINDEMERE II · 1521 S. Lake Shore Dr, 34231 $6,998,000 | 4,866 Sq. Ft. | 4 Bed | 5.5 Bath Elevator | Pool & Spa | Media Room | Study | MLS A4637673 Available Now with Leaseback

BUILD A CUSTOM HOME DESIGN ON YOUR LOT OR CHOOSE A PLAN FROM OUR PORTFOLIO. Visit Our Award-Winning Model Home Monday - Saturday 10 am - 4 pm; Sunday 1pm - 4 pm Heritage Builders of West Florida, LLC | CBC1259037 1550 S. Orange Ave, 34239 | 941-328-8272 | HeritageBuildersWFL.com HB Realty Group, Inc. | Licensed Real Estate Broker

442036-1

$4,298,000 | 3,862 Sq. Ft. | 4 Bed | 4.5 Bath 4-Car Garage | Covered Lanai & Veranda | Chef ’s Kitchen | MLS A4637517 Move-In Early 2026

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

FATHER’S DAY

New fares for Breeze OnDemand begin July 1 ERIC GARWOOD DIGITAL NEWS EDITOR

P

assengers 80 and older could get a free ride on any of Sarasota County’s public transit options — in 2026.

Concerned about a lack of solid octogenarian-ridership data, Sarasota County commissioners on Tuesday approved a slate of new fares for Breeze OnDemand rides and set aside a proposal for complimentary service for people born in 1945 or earlier. For now.

At this time next year, county officials will have 12 months of information on how many rides 80-yearolds take on the 4-year-old service and how converting their paid rides to free service would affect revenue.

“Go ahead and collect that data so perhaps at next year’s budget, we could have some data so that we could decide how many folks we’re talking about and what hit that might be to the budget,” said Commissioner Mark Smith, who earlier had proposed the free-ride notion, based on a recommendation from a Breeze advisory board.

Transit Director Jane Grogg told commissioners self-reported data indicated about 4% to 6% of unique OnDemand riders classify themselves as over 80, but there was no information on the number of rides they take annually or the distance.

“It just doesn’t exist,” she said.

Rider 80 and older ride free now on Breeze fixed-route bus service.

The free-ride proposal was one of three made by Breeze’s Citizens’ Advisory Committee, none of which were adopted as part of the new fare package approved unanimously. The others were to cap the maximum fare riders could pay at $5 and make rides for children 12 and younger, also free.

Building the new fare is on a $3 base fare for the first three miles, then a $1 a mile fee up to a $6 total. Companion fees are also new in the new fare system that begins July 1.

The number of annual trips provided by OnDemand service, launched midyear in 2021, has climbed from about 81,000 in its first six months to

Weekend Special!

FREE DADS & GRANDFATHERS

*

JUNE

A FARE FOR ALL

Beginning on July 1, these Breeze fares will take effect: FIXED-ROUTE SERVICE ■ $1.50: Regular one way ■ 75 cents: One way for ages 65 to 79; Medicare recipients; people with qualifying disabilities; additional children 5 and younger ■ Free: Ages 80 and older; ages 5 and younger (no more than two per passenger) ■ $50: 30-day all inclusive pass BREEZE ONDEMAND ■ $3: One-way base fare up to three miles ■ $1: Additional per mile beyond three, up to six miles ■ $1: Companion flat fee (up to three per full-fare passenger) ■ $1.50: One-way flat fare for certified Transportation Disadvantaged Riders 76 FLYER (Airport to downtown Sarasota) ■ $2: One-way fare ■ $1: One way for ages 65 and older; Medicare recipients; people with qualifying disabilities ■ $50: 30-day pass SIESTA ISLANDER, BAY RUNNER, ROUTE 99 (Sarasota to Bradenton) ■ Free for all riders

nearly 400,000 in 2024. The cost to the county with contracted operator has also grown, now exceeding the savings envisioned when the county shut down a swath of bus service.

“As a result, the cost of providing OnDemand service now exceeds the amount that was originally saved by eliminating fixed routes,” a county document shows. Breeze OnDemand operates in three zones of Sarasota County: Venice/Englewood, North Port and the Sarasota region, including the barrier islands. It operates much like private ride-sharing services and delivers riders door to door, though not necessarily solo or nonstop.

14 &15

donate &&shop donate donate &donate shop shop & sh

Looking for a fun and WILD way to celebrate Father’sBuilding Day Building Materials | Furniture | Appliances Materials Building | Furniture Materials Building | Appliances | Furniture Materials | |Appliances Furniture | Appli weekend? Come to Sarasota Jungle Gardens, where dads ArtArt | Decorative | Lamps Art | Decorative Accessories | Decorative Art |Accessories Lamps Accessories | Decorative Accessories | Lamps | L and grand-dads get in FREE with the purchase of a same-day, full-priced adult or child admission.

PLUS – dads and grand-dads can hold an alligator FREE! Must buy online and use promo code: FATHERS24 *Restrictions apply.

n 1nLocation n Stores 3 Stores n 13 Location 3 Stores 1 3 Location Stores 1 Location Tuesday -n Saturday 10:00am - 5:00pm Tuesday - Saturday Tuesday 10:00am - Saturday Tuesday -n 5:00pm -nSaturday 10:00am -n 5:00pm 10:00am n Sarasota n Sarasota 2095 17th Street Sarasota 2095 17th Street 2095 17th Street 2095n 17th Street n Saraso

Sarasota's Favorite Family Attraction®

large items tolarge donate?

Have large Have items Have to large donate?

Have items to donate? items to donat Call toyour schedule free pick up.

Call to schedule Call to schedule freeCall pick toyour up. schedule free pick your free pic Call to schedule ayour courtesy pick up.up.

n www.habitatsrq.org (941 ) n444-5783 n www.habitatsrq.org n www.habitat (941) 444-5783 (941 )www.habitatsrq.org (941 ) 444-5783 444-5783 438067-1

SarasotaJungleGardens.com • 941.355.5305 Our Our vision is everyone deserves a decent place to live.

Our vision is everyone deserves vision aisdecent everyone Our place vision deserves to live. is everyone a decent deserves place to alive. decent plac 439569-1

6

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

1

#

7

Sotheby’s International Realty® Affiliate in the World*

Florida Luxury Market Share** ESPLANADE

*Peerage Group Sotheby’s International Realty. **Sotheby’s International Realty® leads the Florida luxury real estate market in sales volume and units sold.

4809 Benito Court Andrew Tanner

$1,950,000 941.539.0998

THE GULF COAST LUXURY LEADER

Open House Event Scan for a full list of open houses, property details, driving directions and more.

LIDO SHORES | LIDO KEY 424 Bowdoin Circle Joel Schemmel

HARBOUR LANDINGS 12622 Safe Harbour Drive Carmen Baskind & Laura Pearson

7934 Royal Birkdale Circle Donna Soda

LAKEWOOD RANCH COUNTRY CLUB $1,450,000 941.447.4875

VILLA BALLADA 430 Kumquat Court #210 Frank Lambert & Anita Lambert

$1,196,000 941.920.1500

WORTHINGTON

BAY ISLES

$1,049,000 941.961.5857

$849,000 941.920.1500

LONGBOAT KEY $2,695,000 941.447.4875

1465 Gulf Of Mexico Drive #502 Jackie Kleppinger

ALINARI 800 North Tamiami Trail #1217 Roberta Tengerdy & Carolyn Collins

3111 Bayou Sound Judy Mitchell

$1,450,000 941.275.6838

640 North Osprey Avenue Dennis Girard

$1,500,000 941.321.2292

2301 Gulf Of Mexico Drive #33N Chris Wetzig

$1,195,000 941.404.9504

$1,400,000 941.809.0041

6804 Gulf Drive #6804 Shellie Young & Nathan Mathers

$999,180 941.713.5458

LAKEWOOD NATIONAL GOLF CLUB 5817 Brandon Run Leslie DuFresne & Lori Carey

$795,000 941.374.5010

635 South Orange Avenue #404 Moriah Taliaferro

$1,135,000 941.504.9910

$1,385,000 941.404.9504

17604 Hickok Belt Loop Rebecca Zimmerman

$1,115,000 941.224.4824

DOWNTOWN SARASOTA $995,000 941.350.8083

LONGBOAT HARBOUR 4310 Falmouth Drive #102 Thomas Netzel & Sharon Meier

111 South Pineapple Avenue #804 Christopher Bush & Angie Walters

LAKEWOOD NATIONAL GOLF CLUB

LONGBOAT KEY 1115 Gulf Of Mexico Drive #304 Chris Wetzig

$1,495,000 941.350.8083

MARK SARASOTA

ORANGE CLUB

8962 Baroque Terrace Christopher Bush & Angie Walters

$1,690,000 941.320.0049

LONGBOAT KEY

GILLESPIE PARK

WEST WINDS OF HOLMES BEACH II

HARBOUR LANDINGS 12518 Harbour Landings Drive Frank Lambert & Anita Lambert

$1,569,000 941.961.5857

ARTISTRY

4629 Antrim Drive Donna Soda & Joel Schemmel

8312 Catamaran Circle Laura Stavola

LAKEWOOD RANCH COUNTRY CLUB $1,595,000 941.724.1854

7024 Brier Creek Court Laura Stavola

$14,995,000 941.587.4894

THE LAKE CLUB

$747,000 941.539.0633

435 South Gulfstream Avenue #601 Jo Rutstein & Hilary Souza

$950,000 941.587.9156

LAKEWOOD NATIONAL 5577 Palmer Circle #203 Leslie DuFresne & Lori Carey

$424,900 941.374.5010

Featured New Developments

941.213.0014 TheEstatesatTerraNova.com

941.920.1500 OrangeOneFL.com

941.920.1501 TheFrankLambertTeam.com

941.920.1500 TheFrankLambertTeam.com

BECAUSE EVERY HOME IS UNIQUE. JUST LIKE YOU. JUST LIKE US. BROKERAGE | RENTALS | RELOCATION | NEW DEVELOPMENT | MORTGAGE | TITLE | INSURANCE | FINE ART CONSIGNMENT VENICE | 941.412.3323

LAKEWOOD RANCH | 941.907.9541

LONGBOAT KEY | 941.383.2500

RENTALS | 941.203.3433

Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. Property information herein is derived from various resources, including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate. *Peerage Group Sotheby’s International Realty. Source: BrokerMetrics®

438407-1

SARASOTA - DOWNTOWN | 941.364.4000

8

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

OPINION

LONGBOAT

Investors are not hurting the housing market The lack of supply is the biggest culprit in housing climbing to unaffordable levels in the area.

CORPORATE LANDLORDS BUY ONLY A SLIVER OF U.S. HOMES

“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 Wingert, KWingert@YourObserver.com Managing Editor / Michael Harris, MHarris@YourObserver.com Staff Writers / Dana Kampa, DKampa@ YourObserver.com; Carter Weinhofer, CWeinhofer@YourObserver.com Digital & Engagement Editor / Kaelyn Adix, KAdix@YourObserver.com Digital News Editor / Eric Garwood, EGarwood@YourObserver.com Copy Editor / Gina Reynolds Haskins, GRHaskins@YourObserver.com Senior Editorial Designer / Melissa Leduc, MLeduc@YourObserver.com Editorial Designer / Jenn Edwards, JEdwards@YourObserver.com A+E Editor / Monica Roman Gagnier, MGagnier@YourObserver.com

ADRIAN MOORE AND ELIZA TERZIEV

U

nderstanding the origin of the current housing crisis is the key to solving it. While many policymakers have been busy drafting policies to expand supply and increase funding to affordable housing programs, some believe the real problem lies elsewhere: institutional investors in the market for single-family homes.

On the news, on social media, and even in legislatures, housing market speculators have been catching blame for high home prices. CBS Miami said earlier this year, “Finding an affordable home in Florida is becoming increasingly difficult for families as corporate investors buy up properties, driving prices up and limiting options for local buyers.” Even in Congress, several bills have been introduced to restrict investors from buying houses, and at least half-a-dozen states have seen similar legislation.

In Florida, despite calls for such restrictions, the Legislature has instead focused on passing several bills like the Live Local Act that make it easier to increase housing supply statewide.

There has been growth in the role of institutional investment in the housing market throughout the past 20 years, but speculation by major financial players is far from the primary culprit behind current sky-high home prices.

Lagging supply remains the largest driver of high housing costs. Rather than being a cause, persistent high prices in the housing market have attracted these investors who are aware of the major shortage.

When Jeff Bezos launched a new company to invest in buying rental properties, he pointed out that after years of housing supply not keeping up with demand, it was a sure investment. Stagnating supply and existing barriers to additional construction are what make entry into the housing market lucrative

Courtesy of John Burns Research and Consulting (through Bloomberg)

to investors. Should barriers be reduced, not only would prices fall, but it might spark a reduction in the presence of institutional investors.

So, Florida’s legislators are on the right path on housing.

Indeed, there is good reason not to be distracted by the issue of institution investors. Researchers at the Urban Institute categorize investors in the single-family home market as “mega investors” with over 1,000 units in diverse locations, “small investors” are those with between 100 and 1,000 units in diverse locations, and “local investors” are those that own over 100 units that are concentrated in one geographic area. The most common umbrella criterion that characterizes “institutional” is holding over 1,000 units.

These large investors first made a substantial appearance in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis. In fact, before 2011, there were no investors that owned more than 1,000 units. After the housing market crash, investors anticipated a rebound and purchased thousands of foreclosed homes.

This counterbalanced the mass exit of individual homebuyers and propped up a cascading housing market. Without that infusion of capital, many of those homes would have been abandoned and whole neighborhoods gutted. Today, major investors only own about 2% of the total single-family housing stock in the United States, hardly the seeds of a crisis (see figure).

Those numbers are higher in some locations where the supply problem is most severe and investors see that local policies have created a market imbalance: Investors own 5% of single-family homes in the Miami area, 13% in the Orlando area and 15% in the Tampa area.

In those areas, some are worried that investment firms with massive

amounts of capital are outbidding individuals in the market and therefore driving up prices.

Further, they worry that through buying properties and renting them, institutional investors are detracting from the for-ownership supply and limiting homeownership opportunities for families.

The current stagnant housing market in Florida shows how oversimplified those arguments are.

A lot of things in the market have not worked consistently with that story. If investors buying up homes drives up prices, the natural market response would be to increase supply so that homebuilders could sell to both investors and families.

If supply keeps up with demand, prices won’t fluctuate much.

But while prices did increase, the expected subsequent supply expansion has had a more difficult time manifesting. Persistent regulatory barriers, including zoning restrictions, have made adjusting to the rise in demand in a cost-effective way difficult or even impossible in many places.

Investors see that and are likely to continue to invest in single-family homes.

So it is not the infusion of capital from investors that disrupts housing markets, it is local government policies that do not let supply keep up with demand. The increased involvement of investors in the housing market should be a wake-up call to policymakers.

Housing supply should be able to adjust to both the needs of the entire single-family rental and forownership sectors of the broader housing market.

Eliza Terziev is a policy analyst at Reason Foundation and a student at Florida State University, and Adrian Moore is vice president of the Reason Foundation and resides in Sarasota.

“The increased involvement of investors in the housing market should be a wake-up call to policymakers.

Housing supply should be able to adjust to both the needs of the entire single-family rental and for-ownership sectors of the broader housing market.”

Chief Revenue Officer / Jill Raleigh, JRaleigh@YourObserver.com Regional Sales Director / Penny Nowicki, PNowicki@YourObserver.com Regional Digital Director / Kathleen O’Hara, KOHara@YourObserver.com Senior Advertising Executive / Laura Ritter, LRitter@YourObserver.com Advertising Executives / Blake Chitwood, BChitwood@ YourObserver.com; Richeal McGuinness, RMcGuinness@YourObserver.com; Jennifer Kane, JKane@YourObserver.com; Honesty Mantkowski, HMantkowski@ YourObserver.com; Toni Perren, TPerren@ YourObserver.com; Brenda White, BWhite@YourObserver.com Classified Advertising Sales Executive / Anna Reich, AReich@YourObserver.com Sales Operations Manager / Susan Leedom, SLeedom@YourObserver.com Account Managers / Lori Downey, LDowney@YourObserver.com; Caitlin Ellis, CEllis@YourObserver.com; Lexi Huelsman, Lexi@YourObserver.com Social Media and Content Manager / Emma B. Jolly, EJolly@YourObserver.com Tributes Coordinator / Kristen Boothroyd, Tributes@YourObserver.com Director of Partnerships / Ron Trytek, RTrytek@YourObserver.com Director of Creative Services / Caleb Stanton, CStanton@YourObserver.com Creative Services Administrator / Marjorie Holloway, MHolloway@ YourObserver.com Advertising Graphic Designers / Luis Trujillo, Taylor Poe, Louise Martin, Shawna Polana Digital Developer / Jason Camillo, JCamillo@YourObserver.com Information Technology Manager / Homer Gallego, HGallego@YourObserver. com Chief Financial Officer / Laura Strickland, LStrickland@YourObserver.com Controller / Rafael Labrin, RLabrin@ YourObserver.com Office and Accounting Coordinator / Donna Condon, DCondon@ YourObserver.com

Observer Media Group Inc. is locally owned.

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

CEO / Matt Walsh MWalsh@YourObserver.com President / Emily Walsh Chairman Emeritus / David Beliles Vice President / Lisa Walsh (1995-2023) 1970 Main St. Third Floor Sarasota, FL 34236 941-366-3468

YourObserver.com © 2025 The Observer Media Group Inc. All Rights Reserved

YourObserver.com

SCOTT DAVIDSON MONTREAL, QUEBEC

SEND US YOUR LETTERS Have something to tell us? Send your letters to Michael Harris at MHarris@YourObserver.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 1

BOATERS BEING BOATERS 2:30 p.m., 5600 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Citizen Assist: A marine patrol officer responded to a report of boats anchored too close to shore. When the officer arrived at the scene, he spotted two boats anchored about 50 yards off the beach and spoke with one owner. The owner said he and the other boating party were there to visit friends and were swimming to shore. The officer did not observe the boats to be in any violation of local or state laws, so both were allowed to go about their business.

BEACH WALK WORRIES MOTHER 6:03 p.m., 4600 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Citizen Assist: A woman called in a missing person report to advise officers her teenage son went for a walk on the beach about an hour prior and had not returned. Dispatch described the boy to officers, and one officer on beach patrol said he believed he just saw the missing boy on the beach. The officer on the beach located the boy shortly after and returned him to his mother.

demand his money back. After the seller said he would be keeping the money to pay for the time he wasted trying to sell to the man, the buyer “threatened” the seller by saying he would be hearing from an attorney. The officer said, though it was suspicious for the man to show up at night, this was not a police matter and the two needed to handle this in civil court.

PHONE LEFT QUIET 1:11 p.m., 3500 block of Fair Oaks Lane Welfare Check: A man called the police to ask for a welfare check since he could not reach his mother via phone for several hours. A Longboat Key officer responded to the woman’s house and determined she was unaware of the several missed calls because she had left her phone on silent after church. She said everything was fine, so the officer reported back to the woman’s son to let him know what happened.

TUESDAY, JUNE 3

THAT’S NO SHELL 10:45 a.m., 800 block of Longboat Club Road Service Call: An officer was dispatched to the beach to investigate a suspicious object that washed ashore. A United States Coast Guard officer called dispatch to investigate a large yellow tub-like object on the beach. The responding officer located the 20-foot-long metal ob-

MONDAY, JUNE 2

MONEY QUARREL 9:04 a.m., 5400 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Citizen Assist: A man walked into the Longboat Key Police Department to request help with a civil matter. The man said he arranged to sell his boat to another individual for $6,000. But the buyer could not front all the cash at once, so the two agreed payments could be made over six months. The seller received $1,700 a couple of days before the buyer showed up at the seller’s house at 9 p.m. to

THURSDAY, JUNE 5

CLOSE CALL AT CROSSWALK 11 a.m., 2500 Gulf of Mexico Drive Citizen Assist: A citizen called police to report he was running across a crosswalk and was nearly struck by a vehicle at the intersection. The man was not injured and said there was no collision, but he provided the officer with a photo of the vehicle. The officer tracked down the vehicle’s owner through the license plate and spoke to the owner. She said she cleared the lanes before the man ran through the crosswalk, but she still stopped to ask if he was OK and left the scene after the man signaled he was fine.

Since there was no collision and no one was injured, the officer closed the case.

9

COPS CORNER

Your editorial in the May 1st edition only came to my attention last week by the kindness of the owner of the condo we had rented in Sarasota over the winter.

He and his wife stayed there for a few weeks after we left for home at the end of April and I had asked them to bring me each weekly edition of the Sarasota Observer so I could read the entire series on the post-hurricane challenges facing Sarasota County. We two couples finally got together last week.

What a pleasant surprise it was to read the headline and, subsequently, the rest of the article.

I say “surprise” because I didn’t expect an anti-Trump stance in what could be described as a Republican-leaning newspaper. It was refreshing to read your editorial with which I generally agree, as would most Canadians.

It would have been preferable had you mentioned the scope of cross-border trade between Canada and the USA which is far more significant than the volume of trade between the USA and almost any other country, including the China and Germany you mentioned, but which most Americans take for granted.

You quote Friedrich Hayek at the top of your company directory; he would undoubtedly agree with your assessment of the current federal administration interfering big time in people’s everyday lives. Tyranny comes in many political stripes.

Thank you for your paper’s consistently quality writing, professional journalism and constant effort to report more than one side of the story.

LETTERS

Season resident agrees with tariffs opinion

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

ject that appeared to be from a cargo ship. In a post on Longboat Key’s Instagram page, the town said this object was a pipeline pontoon that was likely used for working on underwater structures. Public Works and the Coast Guard were notified of the situation to coordinate removal.

THURSDAY, JUNE 5

PIT STOP NAP 8:11 p.m., 3100 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive Suspicious Person: While finishing up at an unrelated incident, an officer noticed a man with a bicycle and backpack sleeping near a side street off of Gulf of Mexico Drive. The officer approached the man and asked if he was OK. The man said everything was fine and he was just taking a quick nap before heading home. He said he worked at a nearby resort and was heading northbound to go home. After the officer spoke to the man, the man continued north.

SPONSORED BY:

WHERE ARE YOU OFF TO TODAY? Beyond First Class™

Connecting you to Premier Domestic and Global Destinations.

F LY I N G R E G U L A R LY T O T A M P A | N A P L E S | P A L M B E A C H | M I A M I | K E Y W E S T

Private Business & Leisure Travel orionskycharters.com

We offer affordable Empty Leg Flights for flexible travelers, with a range of aircraft options from light jets to helicopters.

The world’s only 100% Carbon Neutral charter company.

All pilots and aircrafts adhere to ARG/Us safety standards and FAA regulations.

Enter the Observer’s 2025 It’s Read Everywhere contest for your chance to win a $500 cash prize and help a local non-profit.

439026-1

How to Enter 1. On your next adventure, capture your best photo while posing with the Observer newspaper, the Observer app, or browsing YourObserver.com 2. Submit your photo at: YourObserver.com/contests/its-read-everywhere

10

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY

TRIBUTES

This special day is dedicated to fathers everywhere, we want to extend our warmest wishes to all the amazing dads in our community. Your dedication, strength, and love inspire us every day.

Carole Ann Salmon 1943-2025

WE LOVE YOU, ROB RILEY!

Carole Ann Salmon, a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother passed away on May 31 at the age of 82, after a long illness. Born in Jamaica, New York on April 3, 1943, she was a pillar of strength and love for her family and was an active member of her community.

443719-1

GROOM’S MOTORS & AUTOMOTIVE

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS

5608 MARINA DR. (NEXT TO DOMINOS PIZZA) HOLMES BEACH, 34217 941-896-7898 • WWW.GROOMSAUTO.COM

Downtown Sarasota’s Premier Senior Rental Retirement Residence

Merald Clark

From Very Independent, Independent with Support, to Assisted Lifestyles

PROGRAM PRESENTER

727 Hudson Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236 (AL#8979)

Wisdom Teeth Removal

by Board Certified Specialists

446281-1

John McCarthy

VP for Regional History Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Selby.org

Carole graduated from Massapequa High School, New York in 1960 and went on to work for Merrill Lynch in NYC, her first job out of school. She later received her Degree in Nursing from the State University of Farmingdale, NY in 1977.

Carole worked as an RN in New York and Pennsylvania for over 20 years and still has her active Nursing License.

Carole also earned her HAM Radio License (WA2VVJ) and traveled to many HAM Radio events with her husband, William E. Salmon.

Carole retired to Longboat Key, FL with her husband in 1998. There, she embarked on a new journey as a Licensed Realtor selling luxury properties alongside her husband at Michael Saunders & Company for over 10 years. Carole was an active member of the Women’s Guild at St Mary Star of the Sea in Longboat Key where her focus was on charitable work, organizing events and helping the

Schedule your wisdom teeth removal now, so summer can stay stress free!

Call us!

Bone Grafting Dental Implants Teeth in one day IV Anesthesia Extractions

community in need. Carole volunteered at The Literary Council of Sarasota Inc., as a Tutor helping young women prepare for job interviews and adjust to being self-sufficient.

She served as a Eucharistic Minister as well as played the organ at the church for services and gatherings.

She also volunteered her time giving out food to the homeless at St. Vincent de Paul Society.

In retirement Carole found great joy playing piano and painting in her Art Studio at home in Longboat Key. She was extremely talented and passionate about everything she did. Her pieces ranged from Landscapes to Abstract, and was commissioned for her beautiful work. Carole cherished her time with her husband and family. She encouraged her children by fostering a supportive and nurturing environment where they felt valued and loved. She was kind, generous and always

had a listening ear or a quick witted response that always kept everyone smiling.

Carole Ann Salmon is survived by her loving family, including her husband William Edward Salmon, 84, married 63 years, her four children, Christine Carole Salmon, William Edward Salmon Jr., Jacqueline Irene Salmon and John Patrick Salmon. She is also survived by her 8 grandchildren Michael Radcliffe, Alexis Stell, Johnathon Loveless, William Salmon, Morgan Salmon, Madison King, Nichole King and Sophia King, her 2 great grandchildren, William and Ava Stell, as well as her sister Patricia Bitzer.

SERVICE: A Mass of Christian Burial was held at St. Mary Star of the Sea on June 10th.

DONATIONS: In lieu of flowers, contributions in her name can be made to The American Cancer Society in support of Leukemia or Breast Cancer research: https://donate.cancer.org/ 446785-1

To Dads Everywhere...

Enjoy Your Father’s Day!

Why Choose Us? Board-certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons Dual Degree Licensed Dentists (DMD) & Physicians (MD) Professional & highly trained staff Patient centered solutions backed by cutting-edge technology

NEW LOCATION Venice Office (941) 263-7343

Hillview Tamiami Office (941) 365-3388

Bee Ridge Office (941) 926-9100

941-778-5622 442908-1

sarasotaoms.com

LIC.#CFC1429635 ~ CPC1459826 ~ CAC1818472

www.lapenseeplumbing.com | 401 MANATEE AVENUE, HOLMES BEACH

Plants & Decor

for yo favorite space!

We are your source for everything yard and garden!

Largest selection of plants & flowers Including native, tropical & more.

440550-1

443744-1

Five Star Rated

Family Owned • Beautiful Garden Accessories & Gifts • Pottery & Containers

941.366.4954 • YourFarmandGarden.com 735 South Beneva Rd., Sarasota FL 34232

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

11

Joint Pain?

Let’s That

smh.com/ortho /ortho At Sarasota Memorial, you’ll find orthopedic excellence at the honors level and in a class of its own. From hip to spine and knee to shoulder, our surgeons and specialists aren’t just experts — they’re professors of precision with a curriculum of cutting-edge care.

Employing the latest tools and techniques, including minimally invasive technologies like robotic-assisted surgery and endoscopic spinal repair, this award-winning team pioneers the latest solutions that erase chronic joint pain and provide our patients with relief that lasts.

From total joint repair and replacement to non-surgical remedies and personalized rehabilitation plans, supplemented by pre-habilitation classes before treatment and home health care services after, this is advanced orthopedic care catered to each individual and dedicated to restoring movement, relieving pain, and empowering every patient.

446584-1

Because life is for living, not limits.

Class dismissed.

12

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

OCEAN COMMOTION

S Town recognizes staff with lunch and awards

A

fter an unprecedented year on Longboat Key, it was time to recognize the people who keep the town moving.

On June 6, Longboat Key department heads and officials held a recognition lunch for town employees and presented awards to a few of those who did outstanding work over the past year.

“In my view, this celebration is the most important one we have over the course of the year,” Mayor Ken Schneier said during his remarks. “What you people do for the town is what makes it work.”

Between 60 and 70 employees attended the brunch at the Shore Restaurant, which started with a meal and trivia. The trivia was mixed with town history questions and Lean Six Sigma, the latter of which is a new training initiative the town plans to share among all employees later this month.

Then came awards, which Town Manager Howard Tipton presented to recognize staff members across all departments. Each award recipient received a plaque and $100.

Department heads and town commissioners donated the money to recognize the exceptional staff members.

“Please know that our community, this town, holds you in the highest regard,” Tipton said to the employees. “They are so appreciative of the work you do every day.

But when you see the response that we had throughout the storm events and through these difficult times, they are that much more impressed.”

Over the past year, the town faced three hurricanes, challenges with completing the utility undergrounding project and celebrated achievements like putting on a

STAFF RECOGNITION Though Tipton said every employee could have received an award for this past year’s worth of work, these were the select awards the town decided to hand out: n Leadership Excellence Award: Lourdes Alcox n Above and Beyond Award: Eileen Panza, Sergeant Adam Montfort, Mike Smith n Community Champion Award: Tina Adams n Unsung Hero Award: Neal Mazzei n Service Excellence Award: Guy Matricciani

tennis tournament six months after the hurricanes and Sarasota County approving the expanded version of the public library coming to Longboat Key. Many of the town employees donned shirts that said “LBK Strong” to symbolize the tumultuous past year of hurricanes and recovery.

Overcoming these obstacles and achieving milestones takes a partnership of efforts between the commission, volunteer boards and the town staff.

“This past year has been an incredible example of what we can do with that partnership,” Schneier said.

The town’s staff also wanted to make sure their town manager had a moment of his own. Toward the end of the event, town staff surprised Tipton with his own celebration — an early birthday song and cake.

4-year-old Clif said, “Because there are turtles.”

Longtime beach cleaner Jerry Uhl said he often brings a bag with him on his morning stroll to collect litter, and he noted many of the nearby beaches have come a long way in their post-hurricane recovery. But many have a ways to go.

Environmental advocates in Canada first proposed World Earth Day at an international conference in Rio in 1999, and The Ocean Project launched the global coordination in 2002.

Mote’s Events Manager Sophia Johnson said the organization looks forward to celebrating World Ocean Week with events from manatees to corals.

She said Mote is closing out the week with a land- and water-based cleanup on Saturday at Ken Thompson Park.

“It’s our triple threat to debris, because we’ll have a dive team, kayakers paddling through the mangroves to pick up trash and people doing a land cleanup,” she said.

Robert Szucs, Bence Szucs and Timea Hullar help out with the Siesta Beach cleanup.

— DANA KAMPA

Jerry Uhl

Photos by Dana Kampa

John Emmanuel Perry, education specialist with Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, shows off a set of shark teeth on World Ocean Day.

— CARTER WEINHOFER

WORSHIP

Safe • Happy • Hopeful

An Ecumenical Church that Welcomes all People Founded in 1956

directory

Clif Lansford gives Gilly, the shark mascot for Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, a highfive.

Worship Sunday 10 am

6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive • Longboat Key, Florida 34228 • 941-383-6491 Live Stream available • www.longboatislandchapel.org The Lord’s Warehouse thrift store is open Mon, Wed, Sat, 9am to 12pm.

443757-1

Carter Weinhofer

Mayor Ken Schneier, Tara Peta, Lisa Boggs and Tina Adams at the June 6 appreciation lunch.

iesta Beach holds the claim to fame of being one of the best beaches in the United States, and locals who turned out for the latest cleanup effort said it is everyone’s responsibility to keep the beach thriving.

Participants turned out early Sunday morning to pitch in for the beach cleanup in recognition of World Ocean Day. Sarasota County collaborated on the cleanup with Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, which is organizing a whole week of activities celebrating one of Florida’s most important resources.

Fiona Bower, the events and programs coordinator at Siesta Beach, directed volunteers, arming them with grabbers and burlap sacks to collect trash.

“It is so important to come out and keep our beaches clean, especially on a day like today, where we celebrate our beautiful oceans across the world,” Bower told the crowd. “We had a record-breaking turtle nesting season last year. It is so important that those turtles continue to come back, and that we have a clean, safe environment for them.”

County environmental experts offered beachgoers information on how to protect Florida’s waterways, giving tips on what turtle-safe lights to use during nesting season and how to switch to low-maintenance landscaping that saves water and prevents pesticide runoff.

Volunteers Carol and Justin Lansford, parents of Clif Lansford, said the young environmental enthusiast had been looking forward to World Ocean Day the entire week leading up to it.

Asked why he likes going to the beach,

6140 Gulf of Mexico Drive • Longboat Key FL 34228 • 914-383-4738

St. Mary, Star of the Sea,

Looking for a Spiritual Home?

Catholic Church

You are welcome at All Angels whether it is for a day, a season, or a lifetime... you are welcome here.

Worship Service Sunday 10 a.m.

Service is live streamed at AllAngelsLBK.org

Worship With Us at Our Church

Rev. Robert Dziedziak, Pastor

443711-1

Visitors & Residents Welcome

To learn more about our Temple and all our educational, cultural, and social programs, please call us. We’d be delighted to talk with you.

Questions? Email us at info@longboatkeytemple.org 567 Bay Isles Rd, Longboat Key, FL

941-383-3428

longboatkeytemple.org

444084-1

Men’s Bible Study: Monday @ 9:00 Women’s Bible Study: Wednesday @ 10:00

6400 Gulf of Mexico Dr. • 941.383.8833 (office) • www.christchurchoflbk.org

Longboat Key, FL 34228 941-383-1255 • www.stmarylbk.org

You are invited to join us in worship, song & friendship at Shabbat services every Sharing Values, Friendship, and Faith Friday evening at 5:30 pm and Saturdays at 10 am.

Sunday Service 10:00 AM Dr. Julia Wharff Piermont, Pastor

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

443989-1

563 Bay Isles Rd • 941-383-8161

443697-1

AllAngelsLBK.org

Would like to Welcome & Invite You, Your Family Members & Friends to Celebrate Mass with Our Parish Community MASS SCHEDULE Saturday: 4:00 PM Sunday: 8:30 AM, and 10:30 AM Daily Mass at 9:00 AM; Rosary at 8:30 AM Monday - Friday 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive Chaplet of Divine Mercy daily following Mass.

JUNE 12, 2025

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

ALL HAIL Jesse Nager stars as Jesus and Ann Morrison plays King Herod in Asolo Rep’s “Jesus Christ Superstar.”

Morrison steals the show as King Herod in Asolo Repertory Theatre’s ‘Jesus Christ Superstar.’

MARTY FUGATE CONTRIBUTOR

A

nn Morrison is a Broadway veteran and a luminary in the regional theater firmament. She lives to perform — and she’s a natural born performer. On top of that, she empowers other performers and knows what makes them tick. (That’s why she and Blake Walton led the SaraSolo festival for 10 years.)

Her passion burns deep; her theatrical toolbox overflows with talent and imagination.

Morrison’s had many claims to fame over her long career. But her portrayal of Mary in the 1981 premiere of Stephen Sondheim’s illfated “Merrily We Roll Along” is the one most theater fans know about. It was a rare flop in Sondheim’s incandescent career.

“Merrily” closed on Broadway after a mere 16 performances — and tanked a few careers along with it. Its untimely fate inspired “The Worst Best Thing That Ever Happened,” a 2016 documentary.

It also prompted Morrison’s “Merrily from Center Stage.” Her onewoman show won the 2023 Bistro Award for Outstanding Solo Musical.

On a merry note, the 2023 revival of “Merrily We Roll Along,” won a Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical.

And speaking of resurrections ...

Morrison recently put her spirit and her skills to work when Asolo Repertory Theatre colored outside the lines of casting and gave her the role of King Herod in Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s “Jesus Christ Superstar.” Seriously?

King Herod? Ann Morrison?

Seriously.

You wouldn’t think she’d be perfect for the part. But she is.

ONCE UPON A TIME ON THE ASOLO REP STAGE

The story begins with Josh Rhodes, director/choreographer. His longstanding relationship with Asolo Rep includes “Guys and Dolls” (2016), “Evita” (2017) and “Cabaret” (2022).

This past fall, Peter Rothstein, Asolo Rep’s producing artistic director, tapped Rhodes to direct and choreograph “Jesus Christ Superstar.”

They discussed finding a fresh take on the musical and its casting. Why not put women in roles you wouldn’t expect? Why not?

With that, Rothstein had an epiphany ... “Hey, what do you think about casting Ann Morrison as King Herod?”

Rhodes thought it was a great idea.

“I immediately laughed,” Rhodes says. “I thought Annie would be absolutely perfect for our approach.”

The director called Morrison.

“Hey. We have an idea ... how’d you like to play King Herod?”

She loved the idea. But she had one question. Why? Rhodes replied, “Because Herod’s scene is a musical number, it’s a cabaret number, and that’s what you’re known for in town.”

Morrison happily got on board. In the months that followed, she and Rhodes continued to brainstorm.

Morrison had her own great ideas.

LIGHTS, CAMERA, MIRACLES

Morrison’s take on King Herod’s character wasn’t Josh Mostel’s glam version or Alice Cooper’s big bad. It was an original insight, one informed by her legacy as a performer.

She realized that “King Herod’s Song” was basically an audition.

“He was making Jesus perform tricks like a trained monkey,” she laughs. “‘Walk across my swimming pool!

Change my water into wine!’ It was

Image courtesy of Adrian Van Stee

QUEEN ANN IF YOU GO ‘JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR’ When: Through June 28.

Where: FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail.

Tickets: $33-$95.

Info: Visit AsoloRep.org.

Tim Rice’s revenge on every Broadway bully or overbearing director.”

What if Jesus had performed a miracle and passed the audition?

“Oh, I think Herod was keeping his finger on the chess piece,” she says.

“If Jesus had walked across the pool, Herod would’ve said, ‘I knew you could do it all along.’”

Morrison also observed that Herod wasn’t just auditioning Jesus. He was also performing for his own entourage. Rhodes describes the character as a “spoiled, deluded narcissist playing to a crowd of sycophants.”

Morrison agrees. “Herod knows how to get what he wants,” she says.

“That’s not hard — nobody ever tells him ‘no.’ He’s just never had to grow up.”

Rhodes loved Morrison’s perforSEE QUEEN PAGE 14

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

Shostakovich piano trio leaves a lasting impression at Sarasota Music Festival 2025 SARASOTA MUSIC FESTIVAL When: Through June 21 Where: Holley Hall, 709 N. Tamiami Trail, and Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave. Tickets: $15-$76 concerts; $5 for a single class or rehearsal.

Info: Visit SarasotaOrchestra.org.

GAYLE WILLIAMS CONTRIBUTOR

“F

rom Bach to Block,” Sarasota Music Festival’s first Friday night concert June 6 at the Sarasota Opera House, was eyeopening and quite satisfying.

Beginning the program was J.S. Bach’s spirited Brandenburg Concerto No. 4 in G Major. Tessa Lark and flutist Alex Sopp, both SMF faculty artists, and pianist Jeffrey Kahane, SMF director, were joined by 10 fellows, as students in the festival are called.

One fellow, flutist Ellie Eunbi Boek, played shoulder to shoulder with Lark and Sopp as one of the three solo voices in this concerto grosso, where the blend and balance were pleasing throughout.

Lark was alarmingly facile in tight runs, while Sopp and Boek fit together tightly, passing phrases back and forth all in a perfectly Bach-ish style.

The fellows — four violins, viola, two cellos and a bass — performed along with Kahane on piano. For many, the piano is a reasonable alternative to the harpsichord. I missed the distinctive pluck of the harpsichord.

I’ve attended almost three decades of SMF performances and was more profoundly moved by this night’s Piano Trio No. 2 in E minor by Shostakovich than any other. Composed in 1944 after the death of a close friend and as news spread about Germany’s concentration camps, the piece uses klezmer colors and folk tunes to capture the mood.

Two of the three faculty artists

QUEEN FROM PAGE 13

IF YOU GO

A trio of festival artists creates an otherworldly effect with piano, violin and cello.

Pianist Nicolas Namoradze Courtesy image

on stage for the piano trio are new to the festival: violinist David Bowlin and pianist Nicolas Namoradze. Cellist Karen Ouzounian joined only last season. Together in this remarkable trio, their fresh collaboration displayed gravitas of artistry and deep commitment.

Otherworldly harmonics on the strings grew to full-voiced sombre lines and compelling conversation with piano as the opening andante moved on to a snarling allegro scherzo with bows digging in like a threat. Taking a reflective turn in the largo, the piano’s dense dark chords rose up like a fist to the heavens. Together, Ouzounian’s exquisite cello line color under Bowlin’s ghostly high harmonics were breathtaking.

The last movement allegretto draws the clear conclusion that something is terribly wrong, and Namoradze brought forth the darkness with hints of a folk tune growing to a macabre klezmer.

Bowlin and Ouzounian brought a hint of light lyricism as well as some col legno (slapping bow wood to the strings) before turning dark again. At last, violin and cello exchange a five-note deedledeedle-dum, making for an epic ending.

Cellist Mike Block, a newish faculty member whose passion is cross-cultural collaborations, hosted a segment of the concert featuring 12 students improvising on tunes from Mali, Brazil and Bulgaria. Each student had their turn as a soloist. There were two true standouts — pianist Ningxin Zhan in the samba and clarinetist Jared Sta. Ana. Ludwig Thuille is not well known, but his Sextet in B-flat Major, Op. 6, is a welcome introduction. The ensemble of festival artists and two student fellows played together in a seamless whole. Xinrae Cardozo played horn with as smooth a tone as any faculty member. Flutist Ellen Hayun Lee showed full confidence and leadership.

Oboist Toyin Spellman-Diaz, clarinetist Romie de Guise-Langlois, bassoonist Peter Kolkay and pianist Michael Adcock, all faculty artists, filled out the ensemble in this delightful performance. The melodically rich chamber music grew more interesting as each movement passed. The Alpine horn color of the third movement painted a picture, and the finale delivered a boost of energy to send us out the door.

mative approach and let her do her own thing in the King Herod scene.

It’s a pivotal story point. That said, it’s only one big number in the second act.

But Asolo Rep’s “Jesus Christ Superstar” has a small cast. Rhodes asked her to play another role in the first act, as well.

THE WOMAN WHO WOULDN’T BE KING

For her first act appearance, Morrison crafted a female character with a backstory — Joanna, wife of Chuza, and the manager of Herod’s household.

Historically, Joanna was said to have followed Jesus after he’d healed her. Morrison sees her as a grounded, maternal presence — a sharp counterpoint to Herod’s swaggering absurdity.

“Joanna’s the complete opposite of King Herod,” she says. “That’s what makes her fun.”

Morrison adds that this role is purely internal. It’s not a speaking part. “Joanna’s not in the cast list,” she explains. “But I can’t play a generic female chorus member.

The audience might not know it, but I need to know who I’m playing.”

That’s the theory behind Morrison’s characterizations. They came together during rehearsals.

And came to light on the Asolo Rep stage.

Morrison steals the spotlight in a single, dazzling scene as King Herod. A 1920s-style song gives her license to unleash her full theatrical arsenal of comedic timing, sarcastic bite, big Broadway vocals and a meta-textual awareness honed by decades on stage.

Her bravura performance takes the audience by surprise.

The campy English music hall number is buried like a time bomb in the rock opera’s second act.

Before “King Herod’s Song,” the arid, stony set is harshly lit. Without warning, the stage explodes with a sudden burst of gold.

According to Morrison, the razzle-dazzle is a much-needed release valve. She collaborated with Rhodes on the concept and also cooked up some bits of physi-

cal comedy. “We do faux healings, visual gags and even have a puppet Jesus,” she says. “It’s sacrilegious but hilarious.”

It’s a star performance. The Asolo audience gets a kick out of it. But needless to say, Jesus is the superstar in question in “Jesus Christ Superstar.” King Herod isn’t the lead role.

Morrison’s cool with that. “I’m not the star,” she says. “I’m used to it, and I love it! I’m the second woman, and that’s always my favorite part.”

THE ‘SECOND WOMAN’

According to Morrison, the “second woman” is theater jargon for a secondary female lead. A foil, romantic rival or friend, typically flamboyant.

Morrison remembers bringing it up in a conversation she had with her son, Huck, when he was 7 years old. As she recalls it ...

“Mom, do you see your life as a movie?”

“Well, yeah, I guess so.”

“You’re the lead, right?”

“No, I’m not the lead.”

“You’re not the lead in your own life?”

“No, I’m the second woman.

They have all the best lines.”

Morrison laughs at the memory.

“And I thought, ‘What a great metaphor!’ So, I live my life as though I’m the second woman.

There’s so much drama in ‘Jesus Christ Superstar.’ But I’m not in that play. In the movie of my life, I’m in a comedy. And consciousness is the playwright and director.”

She notes that acting is a spiritual act.

“You’re a bard; you’re a channel,” she explains. “It’s not about ego, but about dissolving ego.”

To Morrison, all the world really is a stage.

“There’s a larger consciousness behind our individual personalities,” she says. “That awareness is really playing us. So, in ‘Jesus Christ Superstar,’ Ann Morrison will be playing the roles of Herod and Joanna. The role of Ann Morrison will be played by consciousness.”

Far out, as they used to say back when “Jesus Christ Superstar” first burst onto Broadway in 1971.

p U n g i S

TO RECEIVE

MORE THAN A MEAL TM

“

With my appetite so poor and living alone, I have difficulty finding any incentive to

spur me on. However, that is exactly what Meals on Wheels does for me every time one of their volunteers delivers a meal to me.” – Carol, age 76

CONJURING

ART, MAGIC, AND MEDIUMS ON VIEW MAR 15 – JUL 13

Daily delivery • Fresh • Ready to enjoy

TICKETS + INFORMATION

ringling.org

NO WAITLIST CALL TODAY

(941) 366-6693

Conjuring the Spirit World: Art, Magic, and Mediums is organized by the Peabody Essex Museum, Salem, Massachusetts.

421 N Lime Ave • Sarasota FL 34237 MealsOnWheelsOfSarasota.org

The Otis Lithograph Company (American), Thurston The Great Magician—Do the Spirits Come Back? (detail), 1929. Lithograph, 86 1/2 × 47 1/2 in. Tibbals Circus Collection. ht2005133

SCAN TO DONATE

A registered 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization established in 1971

440028-1

Conjuring the Spirit World: Art, Magic, and Mediums is generously supported by the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, Bob & Diane Roskamp Endowment Fund, Chao Ringling Museum Endowment, Selby Foundation Ringling Museum Endowment, and Peter & Mary Lou Vogt MuseumGenerated Exhibition Fund.

430403-1

A+E REVIEWS

14

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

EATING WITH EMMA

and orange bitter, I would’ve redirected the whole afterparty there. Like our wedding guests, this drink’s motto should be, “I came to party, but make it classy.”

Bottoms up

CIRCO: A TACO & BOURBON JOINT

1435 Second St., Sarasota; 941-2530978; CircoSRQ.com

on the best bourbon toasts Celebrate National Bourbon Day neat, on the rocks or crafted into cocktail magic.

EMMA BURKE JOLLY CONTRIBUTOR

A

s I sit here writing this, I’m simultaneously sipping a cocktail, brainstorming puns and preparing for my second Father’s Day without my dad. (Don’t worry, this isn’t going to get too sappy.)

I don’t need the holiday reminders; I’ll always find an excuse to honor my dad. His drink of choice?

Jack Daniel’s on the rocks.

Would he change it up to celebrate National Bourbon Day on June 14? I can’t say for sure his

There are a bounty of bourbon cocktails at Brine — from the coffee old fashioned ($15) to the cornbread old fashioned ($15) and more.

whiskey-loving self would go for these trendy bourbon cocktails I’m about to share. I do know that he’d raise a glass just to brag to anyone within earshot, “My kid dedicated this column to me — drink her recommendations.”

So whether you’re celebrating Father’s Day, remembering Dad or somewhere in between, let’s raise a bourbon toast to the ones we love, the ones we miss and the ones who gave us the good taste to order the second round ... on the rocks.

THE LOUNGE BY GOOD LIQUID

1561 Lakefront Drive, Unit 102, Sarasota; 941-259-1787; GoodLiquid.com /Distillery-And-CocktailLounge

Talk Bourbon to Me: Located in Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch, this new lounge’s house Bourbon Whiskey ($50, per bottle) is a classy 88-proof blend of 7-year-old Kentucky bourbon barrels handpicked and blended to near perfection. Think sweet vanilla vibes, a hint of aged oak and a finish so smooth it could charm your inlaws (though not mine because they don’t drink). Whether you’re a neat purist or just bourbon-curious, this bottle is a solid flex on your bar cart.

Totally Buzz-worthy: Just when you thought you were out, the Godfather ($16) pulls you back in ... with bourbon. This $16 boss of a cocktail at The Lounge mixes GLD Bourbon Whiskey with maple syrup, lemon juice, muddled basil and a splash of soda water for fizz.

It’s sweet, it’s herby and it’s got just enough edge to make you feel like you’re in a smoky back room making deals. One sip and you’ll be saying, “Leave the cannoli; bring me another round.”

15

Courtesy images

The Lounge lets you create your own old fashioned ($16) with enhancements like flavored cubes, gold flakes and more.

BRINE

2250 Gulf Gate Drive, Sarasota; 941-952-3039;BrineSarasota.com

Talk Bourbon to Me: With 68 bourbons and whiskeys (and even more globe-trotting pours), Brine is basically a whiskey wonderland, but the cornbread old fashioned ($15) is the golden child of the cocktail menu. Infused with actual cornbread (yes, you read that right), Elijah Craig Small Batch bourbon gets a sweet Southern twist, stirred with chocolate bitters and a kiss of orange. It’s comforting, rich and just rebellious enough to count as dessert and a drink — name a better duo. Come for the whiskey list, stay for the cornbread-flavored booze.

Totally Buzz-worthy: After hours of champagne toasts and old fashioned clinks at our wedding, I thought we were all riding the perfect buzz into the afterparty. So imagine my surprise when I walked

in and half our guests were sipping espresso martinis. Had I known Brine was slinging a coffee old fashioned ($15) made with Buffalo Trace bourbon, coffee liqueur, espresso

Talk Bourbon to Me: If smoky, sultry and slightly sweet define your love language, then Circo’s smoked bourbon old fashioned ($12) is your soulmate in a glass.

Made with Buffalo Trace and just the right balance of sweet and bitters, this cocktail rolls in with more drama than a reality show reunion. (Trust me, I worked for Jerry Springer.) After one (or let’s be real, two or three), you’ll be whispering, “smoke show” to both the drink and yourself. Don’t forget to snack while sipping, foodies. My choice? The chips and elote corn salsa ($9).

Totally Buzz-worthy: Stop by on National Bourbon Day and sip your way through bold bourbon pours, creative cocktails and crave-worthy taco pairings all day long. And if one day isn’t enough (it never is), get your tickets for the bourbon dinner with Elijah Craig on June 19 for premium bourbon tastings, more inventive taco pairings and a little bourbon education, too. Seats fill fast, so snag your tickets now to sit with your crew.

Sip bourbon and snack on Birria queso and chips ($14), chips and salsa verde ($8) or chips and elote corn salsa ($9) at Circo.

STARTS TOMORROW! THE CIRCUS ARTS CONSERVATORY & THE RINGLING present

Incredible Family Entertainment AT THE RINGLING

FRI JUN 13 – SAT AUG 9

20

$

15

$

12 & UNDER

941.360 .7399

11 AM & 2 PM 2 PM & 5 PM CHILD

ringling.org

TUE – FRI SAT

ADULT

TICKETS:

446030-1

The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota

432471-1

OFFICIAL ACCOMMODATIONS SPONSOR

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

The duo Zeman Quick Change confounds audiences at the Summer Circus Spectacular, which runs through Aug. 9 at The Ringling.

DON’T MISS

SUMMER CIRCUS SPECTACULAR Pack up the car with Grandpa and the kids and head for the Circus Arts Conservatory’s annual Summer Circus Spectacular at The Ringling. This thrilling, 60-minute circus of fresh new acts is perfect for people of all ages with short attention spans. There’s room for walkers, strollers, wheelchairs, you name it — but please arrive early to give ushers time to store them. Make it a circus day by adding a ticket to The Ringling’s famed Circus Museum for just $5 on the day of the show. Runs through Aug. 9.

THIS WEEK THURSDAY

MIRÓ QUARTET PLAYS SCHUBERT 4:30 p.m. at Holley Hall, 709 N. Tamiami Trail $30-$43 Visit SarasotaOrchestra.org.

Sarasota Music Festival alum and faculty member Saeunn Thorsteindottir, a world-renowned cellist originally from Iceland, teams up with the Grammy-nominated Miró Quartet to play Schubert’s String Quintet. Giving the program its title is Schubert’s Rondo, featuring Stella Chen on violin and former SMF director Robert Levin on piano. Fans of Iceland will delight in Thorsteindottir’s performance of “Bow to String,” composed by her countryman Daniel Bjarnason.

‘FROM 145TH TO 98TH STREET’ 7:30 p.m. at Urbanite Theatre, 1487 Second St. $30-$44 Visit UrbaniteTheatre.com.

Nia Akilah Robinson’s world premiere, “From 145th to 98th Street,” follows a Black family’s search for a better life. The American Dream proves elusive when the family’s son is wrongfully accused of a crime committed by someone with the same name. But the power of family prevails in this realistic tale of New York City life sure to resonate with all audiences. Runs through June 29.

‘HOW SWEET IT IS’ 7:30 p.m. at FST’s Goldstein Cabaret, 1239 N. Palm Ave. $18-$42 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

As the mercury rises, locals know how to escape the heat with Florida Studio Theatre’s Summer Cabaret.

The series kicks off with a Motown tribute called “How Sweet It Is.” Led by dynamic vocalist and songwriter Luke McMaster, an energetic trio demonstrates the enduring appeal of hits like “Tracks of My Tears,” “You Can’t Hurry Love” and more. Runs through Aug. 3.

1734 South Tamiami Trail Venice, FL 34293 941.493.7441

IF YOU GO When: 11 a.m. Friday, June 13 Where: The Ringling’s Historic Asolo Theater, 5401 Bay Shore Road Tickets: $20 adult; $13 child Info: Visit CircusArts.org.

‘DEATH AND THE MAIDEN’ 7:30 p.m. at Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave. $29-$52 Visit SarasotaOrchestra.org.

Courtesy images

‘BEETLEJUICE JR.’ 7:30 p.m. at The Sarasota Players, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 1130 $20 Visit ThePlayers.org.

It’s summer children’s theater season. When you see a familiar name with the appendage “Jr.,” it means the show is about 60 minutes, its performers are children — and/or both. This musical from the Sarasota Players Studio, the community theater’s youth arm, follows Lydia Deetz, an unusual teenager who finds some otherworldly friends when she and her father move to a new house.

Runs through June 22.

‘DAMES AT SEA’ 8 p.m. at FST’s Gompertz Theatre, 1265 First St. $42 and up Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

Ben Liebert directs and choreographs “Dames at Sea,” a parody musicals of the 1930s starring Ruby Keeler and Dick Powell. “Dames” first debuted Off-Off Broadway in 1966 starring Bernadette Peters. With the help of sailor/songwriter Dick, chorus girl Ruby lands a role in a musical that’s trying to find its footing. FST’s Ruby is Emily Ann Brooks, making her FST debut. Runs through June 29.

FRIDAY PATTI SMITH: A BOOK OF DAYS 10 a.m. at Selby Gardens Historic Spanish Point, 401 N. Tamiami Trail, Osprey Included with $20 admission Visit Selby.org.

There’s something for everyone on this program, which includes Alberto Ginastera’s Argentina-tinged String Quartet No. 1, played by Miró Quartet. Fans of Sarasota Music Festival faculty member Jasmine Choi will appreciate her flute in Suite for 13 Winds by Richard Strauss.

Last but not least is the titular piece, Schubert’s String Quartet No. 14 based on his song ”Death and the Maiden.”

SATURDAY IN-STUDIO: SANDRA PORTAL 7 p.m. at SCD Home Studio, 1400 Boulevard of the Arts, Suite 300 $20 Visit SarasotaContemporaryDance. org.

Sarasota Contemporary Dance presents Sandra Portal, a faculty member from its summer intensive program. Portal, a Miami-based multidisciplinary artist of Cuban and Colombian descent, explores the intersection of community and identity.

LEVIN PLAYS MOZART 7:30 p.m. at Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave. $29-$72 Visit SarasotaOrchestra.org.

The program features former Sarasota Music Festival Director Robert Levin, a renowned pianist and Mozart scholar who plays the

Selby Gardens collaborates with poet and musician Patti Smith, its artist-in-residence, on an outdoor exhibition of large prints taken from her newly published bestseller, “A Book of Days.” By displaying her photographs outdoors, Selby brings them into conversation with nature.

Runs through Aug. 31.

4551 N. Washington Blvd.

Sarasota, FL 34234 941.355.8437

2510 1st Street West Bradenton, FL 34208 941.748.4679

prodigy’s Piano Concerto No. 17.

The bill also includes festival faculty artist and violinist Stella Chen on Samuel Coleridge-Taylor’s work for nine players and Dvorak’s Serenade for Strings, which sealed his reputation as a master composer.

SUNDAY ‘LILIAN BLADES: THROUGH THE VEIL’ 11 a.m. at the Sarasota Art Museum campus of Ringling College, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail Free for museum members; $20 Visit SarasotaArtMuseum.org.

Award-winning artist Lillian Blades invites visitors to get lost in her first solo museum exhibition. Her Sarasota Art Museum installation of combines handcrafted and found objects to create a mesmerizing display. Runs through Oct. 26.

MONDAY ‘CONJURING THE SPIRIT WORLD: ART, MAGIC AND MEDIUMS’ 10 a.m. at the John and Mable Ringling Art Museum, 5401 Bay Shore Road Free with $25 admission; Mondays free Visit Ringling.org.

Go on the trail of things that go bump in the night with this fascinating interactive exhibition, which follows the growth of Spiritualism in the mid-19th century from its roots in dining room seances to traveling shows featuring magicians and mediums. Runs through July 13.

WEDNESDAY ‘GEORGE HARRISON: A GARDENER’S LIFE’ 10 a.m. at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens,1534 Mound St. $28 Visit Selby.org.

“George Harrison: A Gardener’s Life” is the ninth installment of the annual Jean and Alfred Goldstein Exhibition Series. Walking around the 15acre sanctuary where gardens and botanical displays have been erected to mirror those in Harrison’s estate, Friar Park, you can’t help feeling that the late Beatle would approve of this living tribute. Pro tip: Arrive early for a serene experience.

Grab a bite in the world’s first netcarbon free restaurant, The Green Orchid. You can’t go wrong with the BLT. Runs through June 29

OUR PICK

THE ROOTS OF BLACK MUSIC IN AMERICA The cross-genre blockbuster “Sinners” is raising awareness about the legacy of Black music, which has influenced everyone from Hank Williams to Elvis Presley.

Learn all about how traditions from Africa moved into the church with gospel, the clubs and the stage with jazz and blues and continue to influence popular music today. Instructor Karlus Trapp takes the class on a 100-year trip through time.

IF YOU GO When: 1 p.m. Friday, June 13 Where: Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail Tickets: $15 Info: Visit OlliRinglingCollege.org.

Karlus Trapp

OUR SHOWROOMS ARE OPEN Special Financing Available

www.manasotaonline.com

437925-1

16

YourObserver.com

17

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025 Pirouette® Clearview Wren Sheer Shades in 1290 Goldfinch PowerView® Automation

BLACK TIE

BLINDS•SHUTTERS DRAPERIES•WALLCOVERINGS heraldtribune.com

WINNER

941-925-7800 mmwallcoveringsblinds.com 4801 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota Across from The Landings

Wallcoverings & Blinds, Inc. Since 1989

Saturday, May 31, at Circus Arts Conservatory | Benefiting Project Pride SRQ

©2025 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved.

All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners.

FILM & MUSIC

COMMUNITY

Janet and Curt Mattson Owners

FAMILY & FOOD

Grand Carnival ‘Palm Royale’

443313-1

New Project Pride SRQ President Justyn Hunter-Ceruti speaks to the crowd while Vice President Harry Cicchetti, Immediate Past President Jason Champion and Donna Koffman look on.

BRATING CELE

Sunday, June 22nd, 2025 11:00 am - 7:00 PM

1012 N. Orange Ave Sarasota, FL 34236

FREE ADMISSION Live performances by WBTT professional artists and rising stars from WBTT’s Stage of Discovery program Art from local artists Short films by local filmmakers and students from Ringling College of Art & Design A free jazz concert – in collaboration with Smooth Jazz Harbor online radio and Steglich Ross and Associates– by renowned jazz saxophonist Dee Lucas at 6 PM Screening of Soul Crooners – The Documentary, which discusses the history of the group and was filmed as the troupe was getting ready to perform at the 2024 International Black Theatre Festival Vendors & Food trucks Health and wellness workshops including a free introductory yoga class by Travis Ray

Daniella Padilla and Mala Vavourakis

Amy Champion, Janet Kassabian, Lisa Seifert and Janice Dziuk

PRESENTING SPONSORS PENELOPE KINGMAN DONA & SAM SCOTT

ROBERT HEEREN & STEVE KALT

Photos by Lori Sax

Jason Smith and Russ Jones

Check the WBTT website for a schedule of events - WestcoastBlackTheatre.org

Frederique Chauveau with Heather and Gabriel Welch

430590-1

LEADING SPONSORS

It’s Showtime!

BeetlejuiceJr. June 12-22, 2025

Music and Lyrics by

Book by

Eddie Perfect Scott Brown & Anthony King Based on the Geffen Company Picture, Picture, with a story by Michael McDowell & Larry Wilson

The frightfully funny musical based on the beloved motion picture turned Broadway phenomenon.

theplayers.org | 941.365.2494

446433-1

3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34239

SELBY.ORG

428660-1

© Terry O’Neill/Iconic Images

18

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

Delivering 2026 Visit us at our new Sales Gallery located at

1819 Main St, Suite 110 in Sarasota

29 luxury residences from 2,200 to over 3,000 square feet, with designer finishes and generous amenities set in a coveted location between downtown Sarasota and pristine beaches.

941-210-0987 | OwenGoldenGate.com REPRESENTED BY RONTO REALTY, LLC

Priced from the high $2 Millions.

437169-1

ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS MAKE REFERENCE TO THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. COMMUNITY FEATURES, AMENITIES AND PRICING APPROXIMATE AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

Classifieds 30 Games 29 Real Estate 27 Weather 29

JUNE 12, 2025

YOUR NEIGHBORS

LONG-GAME

SUCCESS Years of hard work pay off for Lido Key graduate.

DANA KAMPA STAFF WRITER

L

ido Key resident Jacob Kalua made a pledge in elementary school that he would do everything necessary to keep up with his schoolwork. Even when Hurricanes Helene and Milton displaced him and his family from their home for

Ian Swaby

Jacob Kalua (third from left) celebrates with his sister, Regan Kalua, father Shelton Kalua and mother Regina Kalua after graduating Sarasota High School.

nearly four months during his senior year, he stayed focused on his goal.

He reaped the rewards of that dedication during his recent graduation from Sarasota High School, when he also received a scholarship from a Florida-based nonprofit that awards scholarships to students who maintain a continuous standard GPA — even when storms come barreling in and temporarily shutter schools.

“For the first one (Helene), we actually stayed on the island during the storm,” he said. “There’s a twostory building next to us, so we went on the top floor.”

The storms were fresh on the minds of many members of the class of 2025.

This year’s graduation ceremony featured the largest class in the school’s history. The May 29 commencement meant quite a bit to Kalua, who has lived on the Key since he was 2 years old.

Kalua succeeded in meeting all the requirements to receive a Take Stock in Children scholarship, a commitment that started when he was in fifth grade.

The nonprofit requires students to meet a variety of criteria, from continuously maintaining a minimum GPA to attending college coaching meetings.

“It was a relief to know I did it,” Kalua said when he knew he would be graduating with the scholarship after dedicating such time and energy to keeping up with the program.

The Sarasota branch of Take Stock in Children serves 22 middle and high schools in the county. The broader foundation coordinates $6 million in prepaid scholarships in Florida.

His father, Sheldon, said 17 stu-

CONGRATS, GRADS! Five former Eaglets from Alta Vista Elementary School graduated from area high schools this year with scholarships from Take Stock in Children. The nonprofit serves communities throughout Florida, and Executive Director Lisa Bechtold noted that the Sarasota branch awarded scholarships to 121 local seniors, the largest class in its 30-year history.

Officials held an award ceremony on April 22 at The Ora. The Alta Vista graduates include:

n Jacob Kalua: Graduated from Sarasota High School and will attend State College of Florida

n Jared Aca-Bermeo: Graduated Suncoast Polytechnical High School and will attend Suncoast Technical College

n Turi Bell: Graduated Booker High School and will attend Florida International University

n Brian Hubbard: Graduated Booker High School and will attend the State College of Florida

n Israel Samedi: Graduated Manatee High School and will attend Manatee Technical College

443687-1

Courtesy image

Sarasota High School graduate Jacob Kalua successfully met all the criteria to secure a scholarship from Take Stock in Children.

dents applied at the same time as Jacob as Eaglets at Alta Vista Elementary School, and five completed it.

Jacob celebrated the accomplishment with his family and friends at the commencement, a special ceremony for the scholarship winners, and a visit to Alta Vista.

The alumni wore their caps and gowns to meet with current elementary schoolers, answering questions from the youngsters.

“It was a full-circle moment,” Jacob said. “I remember being one of those kids ... I remember thinking that was so far away, and now it’s here.”

Looking back on his years in high school, Jacob said his class’s reading of “Macbeth” was one of his favorite moments.

Jacob is heading to the State College of Florida for his first two years of school, and while he is considering a major in hospitality, he looks forward to exploring all the options available at the school.

His father established his own legacy in the hospitality field on Longboat Key as a director of safety and security at St. Regis Longboat Key. Sheldon said he is immensely proud of everything his son has accomplished since the family moved from Hawaii. He met Jacob’s mother, Regina, when they were both in school, and they moved to the mainland when Jacob was 2 years old. Sheldon had completed a tour with the U.S. Coast Guard, and they decided to move closer to his mother living in Sarasota.

Jacob said one thing he most appreciated about growing up on the Key was living so close to the Gulf, which Sheldon said is also what drew his family to the area.

“Coming from Hawaii, we have always loved the ocean,” Sheldon said.

At the commencement, Sheldon joined Jacob’s mother, Regina, and his sister, Regan, in loading the graduate up with a plethora of specially crafted leis.

Jacob said he appreciated having a final moment to celebrate with friends who will soon be leaving.

His advice to fellow students is to make freshman year count. While they should enjoy all the fun aspects of leveling up to a new school, they should also take advantage of the opportunity to get good grades in introductory classes and set a high GPA to start.

“If I could redo high school, I probably would have joined a club to meet more people,” he added.

However, he said he is glad he focused on his grades, and he is eager to explore all the offerings at SCF, perhaps in a club about other cultures and languages.

“I hope I get to focus, learn how to manage my responsibilities and work on time management skills,” he said. “I’m just looking forward to becoming an adult.”

20

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

Wood and epoxy artist Robin Roberts

Photos by Dana Kampa

Rob Vega shows the aluminum wiring he uses to craft his lightweight, tarnish-resistant jewelry at last weekend’s St. Armands Craft Festival.

St. Armands gets crafty M

ost art venues discourage visitors from touching the art, and for good reason. But it’s a different story at the annual St. Armands Circle Craft Festival, where many of the artisans encourage patrons to hold the wooden lazy Susans, latex flower bouquets and aluminum necklaces that they lovingly designed.

The third annual festival took place Saturday and Sunday at St. Armands Circle Park, drawing many early visitors seeking to beat the heat.

Carlos and Patricia Campuzano, married 54 years, are the designers behind The Frozen Moments floral sculptures.

Carlos said their pieces are perfect for residents who travel often but still want a pop of color in their homes.

“When you touch it, it feels real,” he said, pointing out the various water lilies, bird of paradise and magnolia blooms they’ve designed. “Almost everybody asks if they are real.”

Depicting some of Florida’s most iconic natural scenery on large-scale canvases, acrylic artist Rasa Saldaitis brought her work to this year’s showcase.

“I favor an impressionistic style of painting and using lots of color in my painting,”

said Saldaitis, who has painted professionally for about 30 years. “I work with a lot of layers, making each a little different color.”

Saldaitis was among good company with her use of vibrant pigments. On the other end of the park, artist Cesia Acevedo Martinez caught the attention of many passersby, with her paintings featuring bright blue flamingoes.

The artist said she also likes bringing her sunflower-centric art pieces to festivals like this because they often inspire happy memories for viewers.

The craft festival also provided a venue for artists to explore a broader variety of media. Robin Roberts displayed the lazy Susans, charcuterie boards and tabletops he created from hand-carved wood and epoxy. Roberts works with a number of wood varieties, but his go-to is olive wood for its bold grain, ease with which to work and intoxicating scent.

This fall, a relatively new craft festival comes to St. Armands Circle. The showcase features Craft Marketplace and is scheduled for Sept. 13-14. Visit ArtFestival. com/Festivals for more information.

Jennifer Cross, showing her work at the St. Armands Circle Craft Festival, said she appreciates customers’ imagination when collaborating on a commission piece.

She started crafting her wooden hook racks in her free time during the peak of the pandemic.

Pinellas Park artist Rasa Saldaitis

Artist Cesia Acevedo Martinez, showing her work at the St. Armands Circle Craft Festival, says not every flamingo needs to be pink.

— DANA KAMPA

Celebrating 50 YEARS of Living and Working on Longboat Key Cathy C. Meldahl, P.A. Your Longboat Key Community Realtor • Consistent top producer on Longboat Key • In-depth knowledge of the real estate market • Active in our community with Longbeach Village Association Longboat Key Historical Society Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce Longboat Key Garden Club

443783-1

941.724.7228

CathyMeldahl@michaelsaunders.com

Presented by:

WAGNERREALTY.COM 941.727.2800

New Boats, Exhibits & More.

Tampa Bay’s Largest Boat Show!

FREE ADMISSION

June 27th, 28th & 29th

CELEBRATING 85 YEARS OF REAL ESTATE EXCELLENCE

Westchester Apts Condo 4825 Gulf of Mexico Dr. #304, LBK 2BR/2BA / A4633880 / $890,000 Carol Codella (941) 224-3129

Coquina Beach Residential Lot 580 Neptune Ave, LBK A4626912 / $1,250,000 / Lot size: 125x150 Rae Ellen Hayo (941) 920-0364

Cedars East Townhouse 821 Evergreen Way, LBK 2BR/2.5BA / A4638303 / $615,000 Mary Moore (941) 757-6061

Whitney Beach Condo 6701 Gulf of Mexico Dr. #311, LBK 1BR/1BA / A4640305 / $849,900 Ed Taaffe (636) 346-6165

Harbor House South Condo 400 Golden Gate Pt, #11, Sarasota 3BR/2BA / A4637867 / NOW $1,350,000 Miguel Rosa (941) 447-5928

Sands Point Condo 100 Sands Point Rd., #225, LBK 2BR/2BA / A4644832 / $999,995 Donna Turnbaugh (410) 382-4692

Fri., 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Sat., 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. • Sun., 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

4800 US-301, Tampa, FL 33610

www.tampabayboatshows.com

446499-1

Florida State Fairgrounds

LOCAL, VETERAN OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1939

Longboat Key Office 5360 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Suite 101 Longboat Key, FL 34228 941.383.5577

SCAN QR CODE FOR THIS WEEKEND OPEN HOUSES

444178-1

The expo halls and grounds are filled with boats and exhibits.

YourObserver.com

21

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

BENCH MBAER KHRMEASU AT EGIC I NG Z ED NC R K LTS R E S U •LTSST• R ST R AT EGIC M M AARR KK ETET ING • P E •R SPER O NASONA L I Z E D SLEIRV I C E SERV ICE Y AR U CT N SA

Y AR U CT N SA

Y AR U CT N SA

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

535 SANCTUARY DRIVE #A602

Longboat Key | Offered $2,749,000 7 H A R BOUR LINKS DRatI V E, #4 MLS# A4647105 on g b o at K e y | O f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0

MLS# A4178487

TA ES I S

Y KE

2067 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4 L on g b o at K e y | O f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4178487

717 TREASURE BOAT WAY 7 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4 Sarasota | Offered at $899,000

on g b o at K e y | O f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4648808 MLS# A4178487

D 2067 OL H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4 S L on g b o at K e y | O f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4178487

545 SANCTUARY DRIVE #B406

Key | Offered at $2,199,995 2067 HLongboat A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4 MLS# A4631653 L on g b o at K e y | O f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0

MLS# A4178487

Y KE T OA B NG LO

UB CL

545 SANCTUARY DRIVE #B806

Longboat KeyA|R Offered at $1,950,000 2067 H BOUR LINKS DR I V E MLS# A4646987 L on g b o at K e y | O f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0

MLS# A4178487

G IN D N PE

2067 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4

2067 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4

POINT ROAD #6204 2067 225 HLongboat ASANDS R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4 Key | Offered at $875,000

250 SANDS POINT ROAD #5105

L on g b o at K e y | O f f e re d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4178487

L on g b o at K eMLS# y | OA4639379 f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4178487 D

L H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4 2067 SO L on g b o at K e y | O f f e re d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4178487

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

2067 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E Longboat Key | Offered at $499,000

L onMLS# g b o atA4637355 K e y | O f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 MLS# A4178487

D

LH A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4 2067 SO L on g b o at K e y | O f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4178487

REPRESENTED BUYER & SELLER

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

455 LONGBOAT CLUB ROAD #504

L on g b o at K eMLS# y | OA4642970 f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 A4178487 2067 H A RMLS# BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4

MLS# A4178487 2067 H A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4

L on g b o at K e y | O f f e re d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4178487

I A N A DDY, PA IA R E ANL TAODDY, R ® , M BPA A R E A LT O R ®, M B A

IanAddy@MichaelSaunders. com IanAddy@MichaelSaunders.com

2067 H BOUR LINKS DR I V E Longboat KeyA|R Offered at $4,150,000 L onMLS# g b o atA4630235 K e y | O f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0

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

G A I L W IT T IG

G BARI L WEIT TSIG OK R-A SOCI ATE

BROK E R-A SSOCI ATE GailWittig@MichaelSaunders. co GailWittig@MichaelSaunders. com

941.387.0100 941.387.0100

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

443770-1

on g b o at K e y | O f f ere d at $ 7 79, 0 0 0 MLS# A4647587 MLS#HA4178487 2067 A R BOUR LINKS DR I V E, #4

575 SANCTUARY DR #A304

2067 H A RLongboat BOUR DR I V E, #4 KeyLINKS | $2,201,000

443770-1

1045 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #205

7 H A R BOUR Longboat LINKS I V E, #4 KeyDR | 1,900,000

22

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

Rachel Ghormley said she plans to keep many of Euphemia Haye’s most beloved items on the menu, from desserts to the peppercorn steak — her personal favorite.

Photos by Dana Kampa

Rachel Ghormley, new owner of Euphemia Haye with her husband, Jason, said they were glad to save the 50-year-old restaurant that is especially sentimental to her family.

In its Haye day

New Euphemia Haye owners share future plans.

DANA KAMPA STAFF WRITER

M

any Longboat Key residents shared their sorrow upon hearing that Euphemia Haye, a global fine-dining restaurant that had been serving a devoted clientele for more than 50 years, closed abruptly.

Rachel Ghormley especially felt the loss, considering her parents held their wedding reception there in 1982.

“I have some of my most cherished final memories with my par-

ents here,” she said. “We had our last Thanksgiving here with my father.

It’s been such a special place to me, and that’s why it’s so important to keep it alive.”

Throughout the years, the restaurant remained dear to the family. She remembers visiting as a child and eventually bringing her own baby to the Haye Loft to reconnect with friends.

Anyone walking through the restaurant’s multiple dining rooms can feel the decades of local history captured on-site, evidenced by the collage of posters hung with care and the wall of wooden wine crates leading diners up to the second floor, which used to be the original owner’s living space.

Ghormley said her husband, Jason, decided something needed to be

done to save the restaurant.

“I broke down in tears when I got the news, and he simply said, ‘Let me get to work,’” she said.

Ghormley joked her husband hasn’t seen the kids in a month, but the hard work has been worth it to save a place that is special to residents throughout the Key, as well. She said their support has been “overwhelming” during the reopening.

The restaurant has only changed hands a few times over the years.

Leslie “Les” R. Buntin opened Euphemia Haye in 1975, naming it for his grandmother.

Ray and D’Arcy Arpke assumed ownership in 1980, and then longtime employee Amy Whitt purchased it in late 2021. The Ghormleys recently purchased both the restaurant and the property at 5540 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

She said they don’t plan to change the restaurant, though they will likely make minor updates to the wine offerings, specials and other details.

But she is eager to explore what else the restaurant can offer to the community, like spearheading a Longboat Key food and wine festival.

“Our goal is to honor the legacy of Euphemia with renewed energy and love,” she said.

This is her first foray into restaurant ownership, but Ghormley said she learned about the food industry when her father ran the Old World Cheese Shop in Bradenton.

The Ghormleys bought a house on Longboat Key in 2020, which she said they did out of a desire to recon-

nect with her roots.

“I grew up in the Village and went to Anna Maria Elementary,” she said.

“Actually, Ray and D’Arcy babysat me. This is a very full-circle moment.”

She said she also appreciates support from longtime staff members, one of whom texted her when the restaurant closed.

Billy Riley has worked at Euphemia Haye for years, remembering when it held only seven tables. He said the staff always considered it a compliment that many restaurant workers throughout the Key would come to Euphemia Haye for their own postshift meals.

“After we served dinner, we would erase the chalkboard and put up a late-night menu for people from other restaurants who came here,” he said. “That was a really fun time.”

With Riley, the restaurant has 34 employees, all of whom worked there when it temporarily closed, or returned. Guest Relations Manager Georgette Young, who left in September, and a chef who left two years ago, have both come back.

The restaurant continued to expand throughout the years with the help of the original owner, who cut the archway entrance to add the additional dining area.

“I’m just so happy that we’re being given another chance,” he said.

Ghormley said to keep an eye out for the return of live music nights and some special events celebrating the restaurant’s 50th anniversary later this year.

Regaining your quality of life begins when you CHOOSE exceptional results in rehabilitation.

For those recovering from a stroke, injury or illness, regaining your best quality of life begins with your ability to choose where your rehabilitation happens. For exceptional results, choose Encompass Health, the rehabilitation hospital referred by doctors and trusted by patients and their loved ones.

Please join us at an upcoming

Community Education Program.

Learn from healthcare experts on a variety of topics, hosted by Encompass Health.

Community Stroke & Cardiac Support Group Thursday, June 19 | Noon – 1:00 p.m.

Fire Station 1, Meeting Room 112 Harbor Drive S., Venice Limited seating. RSVP required.

For more information and to RSVP, please contact Cyndi Calk at 941.284.0074.

RSVP required. For more information on these programs and others, please scan the QR code or call 941.921.8600.

446627-1

Talk to your medical professionals about choosing Encompass Health for rehabilitation.

encompasshealth.com/sarasotarehab

©2024:Encompass Health Corporation:Patient Choice ©2025:Encompass Health Corporation:PC

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

23

Local Roots, Legacy of Experience: One Family, Two Generations Who’s Who in Residential Real Estate Ryan Ackerman Ranked Among Top 10 Agents

TOP 1% of Coldwell Banker Realty Agents Globally $3+ BILLION in Career Sales Volume 49+ YEARS Selling Sarasota & Manatee Counties

Ryan Ackerman 941.387.1818

Barbara Ackerman 941.387.1820

W NE

$12,500,000 AQUA

WATER CLUB I

$3,899,000 ST. ARMANDS

50 LIGHTHOUSE POINT DR. • 6BR/6 FULL & 1 HALF BA 7,450 SQ FT Gorgeous Gulf Front Home • New Roof • Newly • Resurfaced Pool • Boat Dock • Behind the Gates of The LBK Club • Expansive Backyard • Private Beach • Panoramic Water Views from All Sides

1241 GULF OF MEXICO DR. #803 • 3BR/4 FULL BA • 3,045 SQ FT 2 GARAGE PARKING SPACES • Amazing Gulf to Bay Views Beautifully Renovated Designer Kitchen and White Marble Bath • All New Wood & Porcelain Tile Floors • Gated, Pet Friendly Community

$6,995,000 HARBOR ACRES

AVONDALE

$2,595,000 FAIRWAY BAY I

LBK MOORINGS

$395,000 SIESTA BEACH

1919 IRVING ST. 5BR/5.5BA • 4,956 SQ FT • Remodeled Home Tropical Resort-Style Setting • Gorgeous Outdoor Entertaining Lanai w/Summer Kitchen & Retractable Screens • Attached In-Law Suite

2800 HARBOURSIDE DR. #E-22 Spacious 70 Ft. Slip • Deep-Water Access Marina Village Nearby • Harbor Master & Security Electric, Water & WiFi Equipped

POINSETTIA PARK

$2,450,000

7715 WESTMORELAND DR. • 5BR/4.5BA • 4,782 SQ FT • Own a piece of Sarasota History • Palatial Legacy Estate Built in 1918 for Alfred Ringling • Handcrafted Architectural Details • 21’ Ceilings • New Electric, Plumbing & HVAC

$1,695,000 PROMENADE NEW PRICE $1,250,000 1211 GULF OF MEXICO DR., #701 3BR/3BA • 2,100 SQ FT • 7th Floor Corner Residence • Stunning Beach, Gulf, Sunset, Bay & City Views • Amenity-Rich Community

$1,995,000 LAUREL PARK

$1,550,000

$1,975,000 OYSTER BAY ESTATES

$5,995,000

3040 GRAND BAY BLVD., #283 • 2BR+DEN/ 3RDBR/3 BA • 2,550 SQ FT • Captivating Sunrise, Sunset, Water & City Skyline Views • Many Custom Updates • Private Elevator Foyer • Gated Community

$1,295,000 GRAND BAY I

385 N. POINT RD., #903 • 3BR+DEN • 2,778 SQ FT Breathtaking views over the Preserve, Lagoon, Sarasota Bay & the Gulf of Mexico • Expansive NWFacing Screened Balcony • 10ft Ceilings

$4,500,000 WHITFIELD ESTATES

1701 GULF OF MEXICO DR., #502 2BR/2BA • 1,550 SQ FT • Completely Renovated South-Facing Beachfront Residence Gulf Views • Porcelain Tile Floors • Gorgeous Designer Kitchen • Turnkey Furnished

$835,000 GRAND BAY II

755 EDGEMERE LANE • 3BR + DEN / 2BA 1,652 SQ FT • 1-CAR GARAGE • Updated Beach Retreat • New Roof • New Doors & Hurricane Impact Windows • Perfect for Retiree or Investment

$1,950,000

3010 GRAND BAY BLVD., #493 • 2BR/4BA • 2,550 SQ FT 9th Floor Cayman Plan with Gorgeous Sunrises, Sunsets, Bay, Beach & City Skyline Views • Blank Canvas • 10’ Ceilings 2 Prime Side-by-side Parking Spaces

464 GOLDEN GATE PT., #702 3BR/5BA+DEN • 3,377 SQ FT • Bayfront Panoramic Views • High Floor • Private Elevator Entry Spacious & Luxury Layout • Boat Dock Available • Expansive Outdoor Terrace

$749,000 AQUARIUS CLUB

1932 HARBOURSIDE DR. #217 2BR/2BA + OFFICE/BREAKFAST ROOM 1,442 SQ FT • Southeast-Facing 1st Floor Walk Down End Unit • Bay Views • 2 Terraces Updated Kitchen & Baths

$1,150,000 MERIDIAN AT THE OAKS

1932 BOUGAINVILLEA ST. • 3BR/2BA • 1,742 SQ FT 1-CAR GARAGE • Beautifully Updated Residence • All New Hurricane Impact Windows & Doors • High Ceilings • Fireplace • New Metal Roof • New Birchwood Floors

$1,995,000 LA BELLASARA

1735 FLOWER DR. • 3BR/3.5BA 2,840 SQ FT • Tropical Paradise in a Prime Location • Close to Downtown & Sarasota Memorial Hospital • New Roof • Updated Kitchen • Gorgeous Outdoor Entertaining Area

$7,995,000

6381 GULF OF MEXICO DR. • 4BR/4 FULL & 2 ½ BA • 4,224 SQ FT 3+-CAR GARAGE • Modern Coastal Estate on Rare Double Lot Unobstructed Direct Gulf Views • Built in 2021 • Concrete w/ Steel Framing • Income Potential

$6,450,000 GRAND BAY IV

400 N. WASHINGTON DR. • 5BR/4BA • 3,348 SQ FT Custom Art Rutenberg Home • 110’ of Direct Waterfront • Gorgeous Interior Finishes • Wood & Travertine Floors • Summer Kitchen w/ Grill • Whole Home Generator

SAGE LBK

4651 GULF OF MEXICO DR., #304 3BR/5BA+DEN • 4,012 SQ FT • Gulf-to-Bay Views • Exclusive Boutique Living • Designer Chef’s Kitchen • Spacious Outdoor Living Summer Kitchen • Private Two-Car Garage

NEW PRICE $6,900,000 SLEEPY LAGOON

280 GOLDEN GATE PT. #600 • 3BR + OFFICE/3.5BA • 4,101 SQ FT Stunning Full-Floor Residence • 180° Unobstructed Bay Views Private Elevator Foyer • 10’ Walls of Impact Glass • Deeded Boat Slip • Private 2-Car Garage • Boutique Amenity-Rich Community

3060 GRAND BAY BLVD. #182 • 2BR+DEN / 3.5BA 2,143 SQ FT • Bay & Gulf Views • Open Floor Plan with High Ceilings • Expansive Wrap-Around Terrace 2 Deeded Garage Parking Spaces

310 S. OSPREY AVE. • 2BR/2BA BUNGALOW + 1BR/1BA Detached Guest House • 2-Car Garage Historical Frederickson Home • Completely & Meticulously Restored in 2022 for Modern Living

1429 N. LAKE SHORE DR. • NEW CONSTRUCTION 5BR/5 FULL BA & 2 HALF BA • 4,545 SQ FT Open Plan • Gourmet Kitchen • Wine Room Resort-style Pool & Spa • 3-Car Garage

The Ackerman Group | Coldwell Banker Realty • 443 John Ringling Blvd., Ste. F | Sarasota, FL 34236

443896-1

LIGHTHOUSE POINT

G TIN LIS

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

SATURDAY, JUNE 14

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11

ZOOM INTO ZUMBA 10 a.m. at St. Armands Circle Park, 1 St. Armands Circle. Participants of all ages are invited to join Zumba instructor Yael Campbell for a morning of fun, energetic dancing. Free with support from the St. Armands Circle Association, though donations are welcome. Bring comfortable shoes, a water bottle and a hand towel.

PREPARE FOR STORM SEASON 12:30-1:30 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Mental fortitude is an important component of preparing for hurricane season, and experts from AcuMed Wellness & Acupuncture are leading a free interactive seminar on how to stay calm amid storms. Staff will teach participants simple acupressure techniques. Call 941-383-6493.

TUESDAY, JUNE 17

LET’S TALK LONGBOAT 3 p.m. at Bayfront Park, 4052 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Hear from Town Manager Howard Tipton, Assistant Town Manager Isaac Brownman, Planning, Zoning & Building Director Allen Parsons and Fire Chief Paul Dezzi as they answer questions about all things Longboat.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18

NETWORKING AT NOON 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Café on St. Armands, 431 St. Armands Circle.

The Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce invites members to attend a networking event at the newly reopened restaurant. Visit LongboatKeyChamber.com or call 941-3832466 for tickets.

BATHE IN RELAXING SOUNDS 2-3 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Amy Steinhauser, reiki master teacher and sound healing practitioner, offers a relaxing sound bath experience with crystal, Tibetan bowls, gongs and chimes.

Free, with donations welcome.

Call 941-383-6493 or email Amy@ TheParadiseCenter.org.

THURSDAY, JUNE 19

SHOP ’TIL YOU DROP 4-6 p.m. at Whitney Plaza, 6838 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Kick off the summer with local businesses for an evening of mingling and shopping. Participating shops include Ventura’s Italian Kitchen and Wine Bar, Driftwood Beach and Design 2000. Lite bites and bubbles available. Call 941-9600568.

BE A BRAINIAC 1:30-2:30 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Boost your brainpower with an afternoon of brain-teasing games that are both fun and a boost to creative thinking.

IT’S READ EVERYWHERE Headed on a trip? Snap a photo of you on vacation holding your Observer, then submit your photo at YourObserver.com/ ItsReadEverywhere for a chance to win a $500 cash prize and help a local nonprofit!

Sylvia Day from Florida Studio Theatre will lead the afternoon. Free and open to walk-ins. Call 941-383-6493.

RECURRING EVENTS SUNDAYS AND MONDAYS

YOGA 10-11 a.m. Sundays and 6-7 p.m. on Mondays at St. Armands Circle Park, 1 St. Armands Circle. This slow-flow yoga class is free to those 18 and older or accompanied by an adult.

Bring a mat or towel and water. Register at Paige@YogaWithPaige.us or visit YogaWithPaige.us to learn more.

MONDAYS

STRETCH AND STRENGTHEN 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. This class is mostly seated and great for all fitness levels. The focus is on strength training and flexibility for balance.

Suzy Brenner leads the class. Fee is $20. Walk-ins welcome. Call 941383-6493.

TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS

QIGONG 10-11 a.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road. Learn all about this ancient healing art of movement and meditation. Fee is $20. Walk-ins welcome. Call 941-383-6493.

YOGA 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at The Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road.

Debby Debile of Feel Good Yoga & Massage leads a gentle yoga class that can be done on a mat or in a chair. Cost is $20. Call 941-3836493.

DUTCH TREAT: Betsy Lieberman with the Longboat Observer in front of a windmill in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Discover Home SHELLSTONE AT WATERSIDE Sarasota, FL

PALMERA AT WELLEN PARK Venice, FL

Approx. 1,692-3,733 sf From High $500's 2 Amenity Centers Quick Move-Ins Available

Approx. 2,375-3426 sf From High $700's Gated with Amenity Center Quick Move-Ins Available

MODEL CENTER 792 Blue Shell Loop Sarasota, FL 34240 941-361-2536

MODEL CENTER 18188 Foxtail Loop Venice, FL 34293 941-361-2537

CA DRE Broker #01203752

www.homesbytowne.com

445149-1

YOUR CALENDAR

24

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

TOP

.5% 5%

25

in the World Coldwell Banker

757 Hideaway Bay Drive $7,680,000 $3.4 Billion Career Sales 757HideawayBay.com

435 L’Ambiance Drive #L807 $3,500,000 | Furnished LAmbianceL807.com

WE PAY COMPENSATION TO CO-BROKERS

Leah George 941.780.0597

Kepecz@JudyHays.com | www.LongboatKeyLuxury.com Sanctuary Gulf Front Estate

Hideaway Bay

415 L’Ambiance Drive #A801 $7,500,000 LAmbianceA801.com

Steven Judy Kepecz-Hays Kepecz 941.587.1700 941.376.6411

Promenade Promenade

L’Ambiance

Lot Size 100 x 465 sq. ft.

575 Sanctuary Drive #A303 1211 Gulf of Mexico Drive #704 5941 Gulf of Mexico Drive $1,620,000 $1,100,000 $6,000,000 SanctuaryA303.com Promenade704.com 5941GulfOfMexicoDr.com 757 Hideaway Bay Drive 435 L’Ambiance Drive #L807 415 L’Ambiance Drive #A801 $7,680,000 $3,500,000 | Furnished $7,500,000 Integrity.Commitment.

Excellence.Communication.Knowledge. =ResultsfortheJudyKepecz-Hays Team 757HideawayBay.com LAmbianceL807.com LAmbianceA801.com

Promenade Sanctuary Gulf Front Estate Tangerine Promenade Bay Club Inn on the Beach

Lot Size 100 xCONTRACT 465 sq. ft.

UNDER 240 Sands Point Rd #4201 575 Sanctuary Drive #A303 $1,198,000 $1,620,000 InnOnTheBeach4201.com SanctuaryA303.com

230 Sands RdMexico #3501 Drive 5941Point Gulf of $1,150,000 $6,000,000 InnOnTheBeach3501.com 5941GulfOfMexicoDr.com

350 Gulf ofGulf Mexico Drive #211 1211 of Mexico Drive #704 $998,000 $1,100,000 Tangerine211.com Promenade704.com

Integrity.Commitment.

Knowledge. =Results fortheJudyKepecz-HaysTeam Emerald HarborExcellence.Communication.

Country Club Shores

Inn on the Beach

Deeded Beach Access

Tangerine Bay Club

6011 Emerald Harbour Drive 537 Gunwale Lane 521 Wedge Lane $2,470,000 $1,850,000 $1,948,000 UNDER CONTRACT 6011EmeraldHarborDr.com 537GunwaleLn.com 521WedgeLn.com 350 Gulf of Mexico Drive #211 240 Sands Point Rd #4201 230 Sands Point Rd #3501 100 North$1,198,000 Tamiami Trail | Sarasota, FL 34236 | Kepecz@JudyHays.com | www.LongboatKeyLuxury.com $998,000 $1,150,000 Tangerine211.com InnOnTheBeach4201.com InnOnTheBeach3501.com

Emerald Harbor

Country Club Shores Deeded Beach Access

537 Gunwale Lane $1,850,000 537GunwaleLn.com

521 Wedge Lane $1,948,000 521WedgeLn.com

100 North Tamiami Trail | Sarasota, FL 34236 | Kepecz@JudyHays.com | www.LongboatKeyLuxury.com

446509-1

6011 Emerald Harbour Drive $2,470,000 6011EmeraldHarborDr.com

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

MICHAEL SAUNDERS & COMPANY PROUDLY PRESENTS

THE SUMMER OF

Opportunity

OPEN HOUSE

Extravaganza ONE DAY ONLY! SUNDAY, JUNE 22 More than 200 homes across Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, and Lee Counties are opening their doors for this extraordinary event.

Your dream home could be just a visit away!

If you wait for the headlines to say “Now is the time to buy” – it may already be too late.

SCAN FOR OPEN HOUSES

BROWSE ACTIVE LISTINGS

SEE WHY NOW IS THE TIME TO BUY

443340-1

26

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

MAY 26-30

ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR

A

gnes Peterson sold her home at 3606 Fair Oaks Place to 3606 Fair Oaks Place LLC for $2.5 million. Built in 2000, it has five bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,842 square feet of living area. It sold for $3.1 million in 2022.

REAL ESTATE

Queen’s Harbour home tops week’s sales at $2.5 million

27

SANCTUARY AT LONGBOAT KEY CLUB

Robert Rolland, of Columbus, Ohio, sold his Unit A-202 condominium at 535 Sanctuary Drive to Andrew Glaub and Ann Ahern Glaub, of Longboat Key, for $1.95 million.

Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,580 square feet of living area. It sold for $2.1 million in 2024.

COUNTRY CLUB SHORES

Todd Justin McKiernan and Nicholle McKiernan sold their home at 512 Outrigger Lane to Kevin Miska and Danielle Shirley Miska, of Sarasota, for $1.55 million.

Built in 1963, it has two bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,937 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.05 million in 2022.

SLEEPY LAGOON PARK

Soaring Wings Investments LLC sold the home at 671 Marbury Lane to Christopher and Nancy Norem, of Glen Ellyn, Illinois, for $850,000.

Built in 1969, it has two bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,030 square

Courtesy image

The condo at 535 Sanctuary Drive, Unit A-202, sold for $1.95 million.

feet of living area. It sold for $1.25 million in 2021.

square feet of living area. It sold for $370,000 in 2003.

WINDWARD BAY

SPANISH MAIN YACHT CLUB

Ralph and Marilyn Norland, of Duluth, Minnesota, sold their Unit 205 condominium at 4500 Gulf of Mexico Drive to John and Carmen Brannan, of Longboat Key, for $375,000. Built in 1975, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,096

1,299 square feet of living area. It sold for $118,500 in 1998.

Sherry and J. Richard Hurley, trustees, of Sarasota, sold the Unit 145 condominium at 628 Spanish Drive N. to Roger VanderGenugten and Betty Schlosser, of Schererville, Indiana, for $350,000. Built in 1967, it has two bedrooms, two baths and

ONLINE See more transactions at YourObserver.com

In with the new NOW TAKING CONTRACTS

MOVE-IN SUMMER 2025

Dana Kampa

The recently sold home at 512 Outrigger Lane was built in 1963.

DOWNTOWN SARASOTA

TOP BUILDING PERMITS These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of May 30-June 5 in order of dollar amounts.

LONGBOAT KEY Address

Permit

Applicant

Amount

572 Yawl Lane

Building Alt/Reno

Thomas Corney

$270,000

531 Harbor Point Road

Swimming Pool/Spa Jennifer Shimek

$142,000

816 Jungle Queen Way

Windows/Doors

Joe Long

$150,170

3604 Fair Oaks

A/C Changeout

Beverly Bosley

$109,105

1211 Gulf of Mexico Drive #203 A/C Changeout

David Shahian

$54,536

6553 Gulfside Road

Richard Eason

$40,000 $26,380

Residential

SOTA Residences & Hotel | 941.462.3900 | From $1.825M | Visit the Main Street Gallery | thesota.com

DOWNTOWN ST. PETERSBURG 400 Central | 727.209.7848 | From $1M | Call for an appointment | Residences400central.com

MOVE-IN NOW

LIMITED OPPORTUNTIES

DOWNTOWN SARASOTA

LONGBOAT KEY

Minor Work Windows/Doors

John Lavoice

100 Sands Point Road #114

Windows/Doors

Rebecca W. Bilbo Revocable $25,736

6700 Gulf of Mexico Drive #122 Windows/Doors

Marc Gibeley

$18,954

2191 Habourside Drive

Screen Enclosure

John Foens

$18,400

6437 Gulf of Mexico Drive

Plumbing – Hurricane 6437 LBK LLC

$17,000

2045 Gulf of Mexico Drive #406 Windows/Doors

Driscoll Family Revocable

$16,142

563 Juan Anasco Drive

Electrical Alt/Reno

Alexander Besaw

$16,000

569 Rountree Drive

Electrical

James Cardi

$15,981

603 Buttonwood Drive

A/C Changeout

Jason Haas

$15,746

747 Marbury Lane

A/C Changeout

Eduardo Perez

$13,500

2185 Gulf of Mexico Drive #233 A/C Changeout

Brian Drechsler

$13,340

4835 Gulf of Mexico Drive #101 Plumbing – Hurricane Patricia Harding

$11,550

1281 Gulf of Mexico Drive #906 A/C Changeout

Jeffrey Zanella

$10,903

2161 Gulf of Mexico Drive #3B3 A/C Changeout

Stewart Moon

$10,400

512 Lyons Lane

William Swanson

$10,391

5393 Gulf of Mexico Drive #112 A/C Changeout

A/C Changeout

Duane Burns

$10,271

580 Putter Lane

Stewart Moon

$10,160

A/C Changeout

DeMarcay | 941.404.8858 | TheDeMarcay.com | From $7,200,000

MSC | Developer Services Full Service means something different here.

49 Years of Experience I 600 Exceptional Agents I 85+ Successful Partnerships

MSCDeveloperServices.com | 844.591.4333 | Sarasota, Florida Prices as of January 2025

Source: Town of Longboat Key

The Residences at the St. Regis | 941.213.3300 | Memberships Available | SRResidencesLongboatKey.com

443366-1

2165 Harbourside Drive #1301

28

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025 ADVERTISEMENT

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS

Rising Together When Storms Strike A

Free

AA or AAA 24 pack of Rayovac UltraPro batteries with any $50 purchase. $12.99 value CDP15083 Limit 1 Expires 11.01.25

445657-1

Offer valid on in-stock products at participating Batteries Plus locations. Not valid online or with other offers or business pricing. Some exclusions may apply. No cash value. Coupon may not be reproduced.

To receive discount, offer must be presented at time of in-store purchase. See store for complete details.

®

COMPUTER REPAIR SALES & SERVICE New & Refurbished Computers Servicing PC & MAC on Site or In Shop

445655-1

Printer Issues • Scammers/Remote Access • Setup/Data Transfer We Make Windows 11 User-Friendly!

BACK UP & SECURE YOUR DATA BEFORE STORMS HIT

-

CALL NOW! 941-929-9095 • 6968 Beneva Road (Next to Beneva Flowers)

• TREE REMOVAL & TRIMMING • CLEAN-UPS

• COMPLETE LANDSCAPING • SHELL WORK • MULCHING

LIC/INS FREE ESTIMATES 941-356-5616

-

sted by

Trusted byTrua residents d rints loes ses Florida res Fide busin0esyears! & business& yeaors! for over 40fo r ver 5

Taking Orders for 2026 Season!

Relax Relax

you covered Windshutters hashas you covered Windshutters you covered ™

HURRICANE PROTECTION PROTECTION • • SUN CONTROL • SECURITY & PEACE OF MINDOF MIND HURRICANE SUN CONTROL • SECURITY & PEACE WESERVICE SERVICE & & REPAIR ANDAND MODELS WE REPAIRALL ALLMAKES MAKES MODELS

HURRICANE PROTECTION, SUN CONTROL, SECURITY & PEACE OF MIND “Alliswork is properly engineered, permitted, WE SERVICE & REPAIR ALL MAKES AND MODELS “All work properly engineered, permitted, HurricaneShutters Shutters ••Hurricane Fabrics • Impact RatedRated Windows & Doors& Doors Hurricane Hurricane Fabrics • Impact Windows and inspected for your peace of mind” Hurricane Shutters•Hurricane Fabrics•Impact Rated Windows & Doors and inspected for your peace of mind” • Meets or exceeds all Florida Product Approvals

446410-1

-

445656-1

RICH BRIANDI

-

Tile remains a favorite for Florida homes thanks to its water resistance and ability to stay cool underfoot. It’s a stylish and durable option that continues to be in high demand. Homeowners love its versatility, and designers are constantly finding creative ways to showcase it. With so many colors and patterns available, there’s truly something for everyone. Engineered hardwood is another excellent choice. It provides the warmth and beauty of natural wood while offering greater moisture resistance than solid hardwood. It also adds long-term value to the home, making it both a practical and elegant investment.

As the region continues to grow and homeowners prepare for all that Florida living, including hurricanes demand, the team at Manasota Flooring remains committed to being more than just a flooring provider—they’re neighbors, ready to lend a hand. Through hardship, this community has shown incredible strength, compassion, and determination. And while flooring may seem like just one piece of the puzzle, it’s also the foundation where families gather, memories are made, and life begins to feel normal again. Manasota Flooring is honored to play a small role in that recovery, standing strong with the community they’ve proudly served for over five decades.

All of us at Manasota Flooring encourage everyone to stay safe and be prepared this hurricane season in case things start to blow… Hurricane preparedness involves creating an emergency plan, assembling a disaster supply kit with essentials like food, water, medications, and fl ashlights, and staying informed through- weather updates. Secure your home by rei windows and doors, and kno routes. Early planning helps and reduces r

BE READY

-

•• Meets or Florida Product Approvals Meets or exceeds exceeds allallFlorida Product Approvals and Insurance Requirements and Insurance Requirements Insurance •and Locally owned &Requirements operated • State Licensed for Residential and High Rise projects • •Locally owned for & operated ™ State Licensed Residential and High Rise projects Installers • Locally owned & operated • All work performed

by Windshutters All work performed Windshutters Installers.

• •State Licensed for by Residential and High Rise1847 projects Factory Showroom: 61st St., • All work performed by Windshutters Installers.

Sarasota Near the corner of 301 & University Pkwy

CALL FOR A FREE IN HOME CONSULTATION CALL NOW! BEFORE THE STORM

941.921.5555 CALL FOR A FREE IN HOME CONSULTATION www.windshutters.com

General Contractor License CGC 1516184

CALL FOR A FREE IN HOME CONSULTATION

www.windshutters.com 941.921.5555 Evacuate CLOSER to HOME

www.windshutters.com

Factory Showroom: 1847 61st St., Sarasota Near the corner of 301 & University Pkwy

Factory Showroom: 1847 61st St., Sarasota State License C-GC1516184 Near the corner of 301 & University Pkwy SF-1851869

State License C-GC1516184

for the NEXT HURRICANE!

Stay in a STORM-READY Sarasota home, located outside all evacuation zones, zones, and in Flood Zone X. Master bed & bath in a solid concrete block home with hip roof and permitted storm panels. Pets welcome.

Call for availability and pricing:

446391-1

941.921.5555

-

-

fter the widespread devastation of the 2024 hurricane season, countless residents across Sarasota and Manatee counties were left in urgent need of materials to rebuild and repair their homes.

Chris Quattlebaum, a lifelong Florida resident and manager at Manasota Flooring, is no stranger to hurricanes. But when the calls started pouring in from local homeowners, many near the company’s three store locations, he knew this was different.

The overwhelming need spurred him and his team into immediate action, determined to help their community recover as quickly as possible.

The Manasota Flooring team quickly contacted suppliers, negotiating quick delivery times, worked with their financing company to offer extended terms, and stocked an affordable product for immediate delivery.

The stories of people’s lives and homes being disrupted were difficult for the Manasota Flooring team to hear but the takeaway was that there are a lot of very resilient and helpful people living here in our community.

For the past 52 years, Manasota Flooring—a family-owned and operated business—has been helping clients choose flooring that’s truly “Florida appropriate.” The ideal flooring for a Florida home should withstand high humidity, occasional water exposure, and plenty of sunlight, all while staying cool underfoot and easy to maintain.

Some of the most popular flooring choices include Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP), tile, and engineered hardwood. LVP has soared in popularity as a budget-friendly, wood-look alternative that’s waterproof, softer underfoot than tile, and scratch-resistant. Manasota Flooring now offers an even wider variety of colors and styles to suit every taste.

Why Flooring Matters After the Storm When disaster strikes, families often focus on roofing, windows, and structural repairs-but flooring plays a major role in recovery too.

It’s where kids sit and play, where furniture is reset, and where the feing of “home” begins to return. That water-resistant and easy-to-mai erials like luxury vinyl plank neered hardwood have Florida homes. Not y to the climate, t and norm lcy in th in th

HURRICANES HAPPEN

SF-1851869

941 702-8982 (no texts, please)

Luxury flooring for everyone in your family to enjoy

PROOF O.K. BY:___________________________

O.K. WITH CORRECTIONS BY:________________________

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY • SUBMIT CORRECTIONS ONLINE

SF-1851869 (100%) ADVERTISER: WINDSHUTTERS

PROOF CREATED AT: 5/3/2019 5:52:59 PM

SALES PERSON: SFMR04

NEXT RUN DATE: 05/19/19

SIZE: 4X5

PROOF DUE: 05/06/19 15:59:55

PROOF O.K. BY:___________________________

PUBLICATION: SF-HURRICANE PLEASE READ CAREFULLY • SUBMIT CORRECTIONS ONLINE

O.K. WITH CORRECTIONS BY:________________________

SF-1851869 (100%) ADVERTISER: WINDSHUTTERS

PROOF CREATED AT: 5/3/2019 5:52:59 PM

SALES PERSON: SFMR04

NEXT RUN DATE: 05/19/19

SIZE: 4X5

PROOF DUE: 05/06/19 15:59:55

PUBLICATION: SF-HURRICANE

Mansota 3.369” x 5.33”

1734 South Tamiami Trail Venice, FL 34293 941.493.7441

4551 N. Washington Blvd.

Sarasota, FL 34234 941.355.8437

manasotaonline.com 2510 1st Street West Bradenton, FL 34208 941.748.4679

445524-1

OUR SHOWROOMS ARE OPEN

YourObserver.com

29

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

SUNRISE / SUNSET

WEATHER

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

FORECAST

Sunrise Sunset

FRIDAY, JUNE 13 High: 86 Low: 77 Chance of rain: 46%

Thursday, June 12

6:34a

8:26p

Friday, June 13

6:34a

8:26p

Saturday, June 14

6:34a

8:26p

Sunday, June 15

6:35a

8:27p

SATURDAY, JUNE 14

Monday, June 16

6:35a

8:27p

High: 87 Low: 78 Chance of rain: 40%

Tuesday, June 17

6:35a

8:27p

Wednesday, June 18

6:35a

8:27p

MOON PHASES SUNDAY, JUNE 15 High: 87 Low: 78 Chance of rain: 31%

June 18 Last

June 25 New

July 2 First

July 10 Full

TIDES Highs Lows

Ken Adelsberg took this photo of a calm evening sunset on Longboat Key.

Thursday, June 12

—

12:17p

—

9:22p

Friday, June 13

—

1:01p

—

10:03p

Saturday, June 14

—

1:50p

—

10:44p

Sunday, June 15

5:57a

2:44p

8:48a

11:26p

Monday, June 16

6:15a

3:44p

10:14a

—

Tuesday, June 17

6:37a

4:51p

12:08a

11:46a

Wednesday, June 18

7:02a

6:09p

12:49a

1:16p

Submit your photos at YourObserver.com/Contests. All submissions will be entered for the 2025-26 Weather and Nature photo contest. In February 2026, you will vote for your favorite photo, and the submission with the most votes will win a $500 gift card.

We have all of your luxury flooring needs carpet | hardwood | tile | stone | pavers | and more

Daily crossword puzzles available at YourObserver.com/crossword after a spaghetti dinner 127 Build on

60 25-time LPGA Tour winner Se Ri ___ 62 NFL field DOWN 63 Yank 1 Touchscreen tools 64 Cellular messenger 2 About 65 Fashion letters 3 Whipped dessert 66 Nonsense 4 Veterans 68 A long, long time 5 What might fill a pint 69 Oboe insert glass 70 Connect the ___ 6 EGOT winner and “West 71 Ain’t equivalent?

Side Story” actress Rita 72 Statistician Silver 7 Thomas ___ Edison 77 Mars, but not Earth 8 Pricing category 78 Family guy 9 Actress Longoria 79 Biblical garden 10 Fam member 80 “Stick Season” singer 11 “So there!”

Kahan 12 CPR pro 81 Witnessed 13 ___ Paulo 82 Not trimmed, as a beard 14 Container tops 83 “What’s up, ___?” (Bugs 15 Berry that’s mostly Bunny’s catchphrase) vowels 85 Some Canadian cops 16 Utters 87 Like a red steak 18 Confuse 88 Some classic PCs 19 Venue for gladiators 89 Compete (for) 20 British sports car, 90 Assist with a crime informally 92 Big Apple inits.

22 Canine command 93 “10” actress Bo 23 Tweaks, as an essay 97 Poet W.H. ___ 29 A few 98 Out of tune 30 Pumpkin pie spice 99 Epitome of thinness ©2025 Universal Uclick 31 Feel sore 101 Sounded like a smoke 95 “Dancing With the Stars” day!”

32 Luggage-checking org.

ACROSS 33 Congressional periods detector network 66 Amazonian snake 35 It’s just for show(rooms) 1 American ___ (territory 34 Music blaster 102 Put forward 96 Advertising slogan for 67 Advertising slogan for whose capital is Pago Pago) 36 Advertising slogan for 37 Overflow (with) 106 Paving goo Midas’ muffler service? the NBA? the MLB? 6 Aussie pals 38 Bar bill 107 Midsection 100 “The Wire” actor Idris 73 “Black gold” 11 Units named after inven- 43 Australian runner 39 Corporate VIPs 108 It’s a thing 103 Anderson Cooper’s 74 A la king?

45 A pop tor and engineer Nikola 40 ___ of expertise 109 “Curses!” network 75 Throw out 46 Result of waves hitting 17 Fairy-tale baddie 41 Big name in potato chips 110 Branch headquarters?

104 Regrets 76 Droop 18 South American country rocks on the shoreline 42 Caustic cleaner 112 Condition that may 105 Most greasy, maybe 78 Await judgment 47 Advertising slogan for with the world’s largest 44 Org. aka the Postal involve repetitive behaviors, 108 Accelerator particle 80 “Science Guy” Bill Chippendales? salt flat Service for short 20 Birthplace of Rastafari- 53 Tie-breaking periods in 81 “Steve Jobs” actor Rogen 111 Three-___ sloth 47 “SmackDown” org.

113 Chart-topping songs 113 Labor leader Jimmy 82 “Do ___ others ... ” the NHL anism 48 Juno’s Greek counter114 Protest singer Phil 115 100 centavos 83 Family guy 54 Apt rhyme of “spy” 21 Advertising slogan for part 117 “___ pasa?” (“What’s 116 Advertising slogan for 84 Texter’s “I think ...”

55 Ties the knot “America’s Got Talent”?

49 Dutch cheese happening?”)

McCafe?

86 Advertising slogan for 56 Hurt badly 24 Certain deadly sin 50 Soft mineral 118 www.wiktionary.org, e.g.

122 Made certain 25 “What concerns me is ...” 57 Surgery sites, for short the PGA? 51 Swank in Hollywood 119 “Losing My Religion” 123 Nor’s partner 91 Rural route with little 59 Bitter brews, briefly 26 Slight advantage 52 Nonparticipation anxi- band 124 Swerves traffic 61 Historical period 27 Fam member ety, briefly 120 Pizzeria order 94 Nickname that sounds 125 Roadside stops 62 Audacity 28 Demand 58 One who pays a monthly 121 Charlottesville sch.

126 Like a toddler’s face like its first two letters 63 “Go ahead, make my 30 ___-pedi flat fee?

AD ABSURDUM by Jeff Chen & Paul Coulter, edited by Taylor Johnson

437914-1

celebrity cipher

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

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“JI TDI T PIDN LNWFOTK ZWTGFZV ETBFKN – T RXKKEFSVLID, TG TOLDIZZ, T EKTBIGOY CTGOID TGC ZFGSID!” WTU PIST

“KO GCGXD BWO’Y PGWXS SPGXG KY W YGIXGS OGXCG SPWS WOYUGXY SH SPG CKLXWSKHOY HT LGWJSD.” IPXKYSHNPGX BHXAGD

“DA ADH YIDPM PA MHH WAAT KHAKTH OACDF EBCTTCIDPTL. C YIDP PA MHH PZH MPBSFFTH. PZIP’M PZH NSD ECP.” BCWXL FHBJICM Puzzle Three Clue: N equals F

crossword

Puzzle Two Clue: T equals F

Sarasota 941.355.8437 | Bradenton 941.748.4679 | Venice 941.493.7441 | manasotaonline.com

Flooring Made for Your Family

Puzzle One Clue: R equals B

at MANASOTA FLOORING INC

© 2025 NEA, Inc.

sudoku

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

©2025 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

6-12-25

Made for where you live. Here!

THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888

redpages@yourobserver.com • yourobserver.com/redpages

Homes for Sale

DEADLINES: Classifieds - Monday at 2PM Service Directory - Friday at 3PM • PAYMENT: Cash, Check or Credit Card

House on Canal with Pool & Dock $1,250,000

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

Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

Pool Home Completely Upgraded $545,000

GREAT FINDS LOCATED HERE! SENIOR LOOKING to purchase precious metals, diamonds, time pieces, coins, jewelry, antique and estate jewelry, and some collectors plates. Personal and confidential.

Please call Marc: 941-321-0707

Help Wanted SOFTWARE DEVELOPER in Bradenton, FL to dvlop sftware apps: dsgn, write specs, code, debug, implmnt & dstrbute; Dsgn solutns & API's for insurance data & rating algorithms; Trac time for billing & doc purposes; Code reviews & test fnctions; Provide tech servs & implmntation in prdction & QA. Reqd: BS in Comp Sci or Comp Engg; 1Yr exp as S/ware Engr/Dvlpr & use of JavaScript, SQL,CSS devlpmnt; Git proficiency. Mail CVs to Sean Pitcher, CEO, Quick Silver Systems, Inc., 3990 SR 64 East, Bradenton, FL 34208.

auto

RED PAGES AD RATES

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.

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

First 15 words ................ $ 17.50 per week Each add’l word ..... 50¢

15% DISCOUNT FOR 4-WEEK RUN

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

Luxury Sarasota Bay views 4 Bed 5 Bath with Boat Dock $1.9 million Brooke O’Malley CLUB REALTY Call 941-726-2677

SELL YOUR STUFF

GARAGE

SALE

Advertise as low as $17.50 per week!

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

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

SELL IT FAST!

Place Your Ad Online YourObserver.com/RedPages

Visit the RED PAGES YourObserver.com/RedPages

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.

SARASOTA PAINTING, LLC INTERIOR / EXTERIOR / CABINETS WE ARE THE BEST!!!

Residential & Commercial.

Fully Insured.

CALL or TEXT Don 941-900-9398

This week’s Crossword answers

941-955-4888

Commercial Property for Sale LONGBOAT KEY CAFE/ BAKERY/ICE CREAM SHOP FOR SALE. BUSINESS IN PARADISE! Located off busy street & lots of hungry locals.

Great small business opportunity for your kid or grandkid ready to be their own boss.

Owner moving away.

Pls text 312-890-5578. $150,000

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

YourObserver.com/RedPages

Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals 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 LBK 2025-2026: 2B/2B. Spectacular Beach/Bay view. High floor. Behind the Gates$11,000/ mo.

MyRentalLbk@gmail.com LONGBOAT KEY: Beachfront Condos, 1st or 2nd floor, 2BR/2BA, W/D in units, free Wi-Fi, heated pool, & parking.

Call 941-383-3338.

WEEKLY MONTHLY

941-955-4888 YourObserver.com/RedPages

SEASONAL RATES Beachfront, Bayfront and In Between Houses or Condos

Condos/Apts. for Sale

Reservations 941-383-5577 wagnerlbkrentals@gmail.com Visa/MC

Color background: $ 5 per week Ad border: as low as $3 per week PLACE YOUR AD: Call: 941-955-4888 Email: RedPages@ YourObserver.com Online: YourObserver.com /RedPages

Plantation Golf Course View Condo 3 Bed $294,000

5360 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Suite 101 Longboat Key, FL 34228 Rental office 9a.m. - 5p.m.

3BR/3.5BA RETREAT Natural luxury in the heart of LBK. Floor-to-ceiling views throughout of Sarasota Bay for sunrise & west for gulf sunsets. 3 bed, 3.5 bath with private elevator, secure parking & two pets allowed.

Beloved Grand Bay amenities & Bay Isles Beach Club access included. Golf optional. Gated & secure. Nature abounds. $2,000,000 Christina Pitchford PA Suncoast Homes & Dreams * (941) 350-4411 www.suncoastdreamhomes.com

HEROES found here.

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

RED PAGES Made for where you live. Here!

Call 941-955-4888 or visit YourObserver.com/redpages

M-F Ask about our special rates!

Wagner Realty Since 1939

©2025 Universal Uclick

You’re only cheating yourself.

BUYING GOLD, SILVER W/ CASH. RETIRED INVESTOR Diamonds, Coins, Jewelry, Watches & Pocket Watches.

Free House Calls.

Confidential & Honest. Call David 813-439-2694

Sailboat Access Canal 4 Bed $675,000

peekers’ place

Merchandise Wanted

real estate

Autos Wanted

jobs

Over 1 Acre Beachfront House $6.5 million

stuff

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.

home services

RED PAGES

OUR ONLINE TOOLS MAKE IT EASY TO PLACE YOUR AD

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “We are a very typical Spanish family – a bullfighter, an actress, a flamenco dancer and singer!”

Paz Vega

Puzzle Two Solution: “In every man’s heart there is a secret nerve that answers to the vibrations of beauty.”

Christopher Morley Puzzle Three Solution: “No one wants to see cool people doing brilliantly. I want to see the struggle.

That’s the fun bit.”

Ricky Gervais

This week’s Sudoku answers

www.rentalsonlongboat.com

©2025 NEA, Inc.

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

Home Watch

Pinnacle Home Watch.com Stop Worrying About Your Home While Away

Divorce is never fun, but it does not have to be nasty & hateful! Protect your family relationships and assets from expensive Court litigation. Consider Divorce Mediation, the peaceful alternative.

941 - 248 - 4734

All Florida Airports, Concerts & Dinners - Hourly Cruise Ships & Medical | See Specials at: www.blacklabelcarservice.com

Trees

Dave and Connie Grundy 445452

CALL PINNACLE TODAY! 941-306-1999

Call me for a free 30 minute consultation before you call a Divorce Lawyer!

Insurance

MIC INSURANCE

William J. Leininger, JD

446167

Auto Service

SELL YOUR CAR! FAST • EASY • SAFE

WE COME TO YOU

EXPERIENCE KNOWLEDGE SOLUTIONS

Tree Removal Tree Trimming Lawn Maintenance and More!

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

20 years local expe-

Mike Mailliard ~ Lacey Weaver Allen Hovis ~ Marshall Bruce Matthew Mailliard ~ Julia McIlrevey Christopher Byrne ~ Samantha Ryan Jaimie Simpkins ~ Amanda Nazario

FREE ESTIMATES, CALL TODAY!

(941) 544.5663

luislopeztreeandlawnservices.com

Home • Condo • Auto • Umbrella • Boat • Flood

446741

HoHoBuysCars.com

445445

5-Star Rated

Windows

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

Serving Longboat Key Since 2005 Res. | Com. | Lic. | Ins.

Handyman

Painting

KEENS HANDYMAN SERVICES

SARASOTA PAINTING, LLC Formerly known as Sunrise Windows

446748

INTERIOR RENOVATIONS ONE STORY GUTTER CLEANINGS ONLY $250-$350 TEXT OR CALL 574-354-7772

UP TO

Exterior / Interior / Cabinets

Health

STANDARD WINDOWS

FULLY INSURED • OWNER OPERATED

GET YOUR LIFE BACK!

CALL OR TEXT 941-900-9398 TODAY! OWNER: DON HUBIAK

INCLUDING SCREENS, TRACKS, MIRRORS & FANS

446166

Do You Have Neck or Low Back Pain?

Do You Want To Avoid Surgery?

SPECIAL 00

ON TARGET OBSERVER RED PAGES

Give Us a Call - We Can Help

5

$

Call 941-955-4888 to reserve your ad

FREE CONSULTATION 941.358.2224 Recognized Among the Best Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Physicians in America

Roofing

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.com

Licensed & Insured CCC - 058059 CBC - 1253936

445453

446740

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

941-626-3194 kennethfuhlmaninc.com

RED PAGES

• Aluminum, Vinyl, & Wood Soffit and Fascia • Metal & Shingle Roofing • Pool Cage, Pan Roofs & Lania Fabrication • Aluminum Welding & Fabrication

Midtown Medical Park 1215 S. East Ave. Suite 210 Sarasota, FL 34239

www.sunsetwindowcleaningsrq.com

Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES 941- 284 - 5880

Building & Roofing Contractor

DR. DAVID CIFRA, DC

senior citizen discount.

PURIFIED WATER WINDOW CLEANING AVAIL ABLE!!

Kenneth Fuhlman Inc.

Board Certified in the specialty of non-surgical spinal decompression

160

25 $

445456

Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator 677 N. Washington Blvd Sarasota, FL 34236 SarasotaDivorceMediator.com 941-727-5555

446742

We have mediated divorces involving up to 15 million dollars of assets over past 30 years.

941.270.4400

BLACK LABEL CAR SERVICE “Luxury for Less” 410036

Divorce without Lawyers

Transportation

445455

Attorney

31

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

CALL 941-955-4888

Insurance

SECUR-ALL INSURANCE AGENCY 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!

TREASURES FOUND HERE!

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

441238

Sandra Smith | 941.383.3388

YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

WE P

AY

3I% N TO SSI O

L M COM SS IO N A E F PR O R O K E R S CO -B

612 MOURNING DOVE DRIVE - BIRD KEY

$7,195,000

Built in 2022 by Voigt Brothers, this new impeccable waterfront estate pairs sleek contemporary architecture with the comforts of elevated Bird Key living. Nestled along deep sailboat water just off Sarasota Bay, this contemporary home spans over 4,700 square feet of beautifully finished interiors, seamlessly integrated with an expansive outdoor living experience. www.612MourningDove.com

$29,995,000

435 L’AMBIANCE DRIVE #M408

$3,795,000

8537 PAVIA WAY - THE LAKE CLUB

$3,865,000

Nestled in the premiere Lake Club, this impeccably furnished 2022-built, 5BR + office residence presents a seamless blend of elegant design and resort-inspired comfort, includes three-car garage and resort-style community amenities. www.8537PaviaWay.com

TO

TO

TO

B U YE R’ S

Perched on the 4th floor of Building II at L’Ambiance, this corner Royal residence offers breathtaking Gulf and sunset views,. Spanning 3,380 SF, this 3BR+study getaway showcases panoramic beach and sunset vistas. www.435LAmbianceM408.com

TO

B U YE R’ S

This extraordinary 6BR waterfront estate, set on three acres, is a masterclass in modern coastal living. Built in 2024, offering 217’ of bay frontage, comprising main and guest homes, resort-style outdoor area, tennis court with pavilion. www.CrystalWaters.homes

B U YE R’ S

8501 MIDNIGHT PASS ROAD

B U YE R’ S

TO

TO

B U YE R’ S

B U YE R’ S

EXCLUSIVE LISTINGS - TOUR THESE LUXURY HOMES TODAY

6453 GULFSIDE ROAD

258 GOLDEN GATE POINT #801

655 LONGBOAT CLUB ROAD #14A

4473 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE

$4,995,000

$3,999,000

$3,995,000

$3,995,000

TO

B U YE R’ S

With the beach in your backyard, this updated, 4BR direct Gulf-front spans 3,000 SF across two levels, with 2-car garage. www.4473GulfofMexico.com

TO

B U YE R’ S

Furnished and move-in ready, this recent updated 3BR residence features stunning beach, sunset views and two parking spaces. www.RegentPlace14A.com

TO

B U YE R’ S

This 3BR residence blends contemporary downtown living with stunning bay and city views. Includes a private 2-car garage. www.MajesticBay801.com

TO

B U YE R’ S

An ideal opportunity to design a custom coastal retreat on this direct Gulf-front, 3/4-acre Longboat Key estate-sized parcel. www.6453GulfsideRoad.com

7418 WESTMORELAND DRIVE

113 FILLMORE DRIVE

2945 PYRULA DRIVE

3540 MISTLETOE LANE

$3,795,000

$3,795,000

$3,595,000

$3,595,000

TO

B U YE R’ S

Spectacular direct bayfront residence offered fully furnished! Immediately move into this completely updated 4BR home. www.3540Mistletoe.com

TO

B U YE R’ S

2024-built, 5BR home features special upgrades that highlight its sleek interior and exterior. Walk to beach! www.2945PyrulaDr.com

TO

B U YE R’ S

Turnkey furnished, this move-in ready 4BR getaway is one block from St. Armands and minutes from Lido Beach. www.113FillmoreDrive.com

TO

B U YE R’ S

Modern updates inside and out create the perfect move-in ready experience at this 3-level, 5BR direct bayfront home. www.7418WestmorelandDrive.com

642 SOUTH OWL DRIVE

435 L’AMBIANCE DRIVE #K506

340 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #136

1281 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #906

$3,499,000

$3,299,000

$3,295,000

$2,495,000

6641 SAINT JAMES XING

541 FORE DRIVE

$2,195,000

$2,095,000

$1,975,000

B U YE R’ S

3825 SARASOTA GOLF CLUB BLVD.

Rare opportunity to build your dream home on 5-acres among luxurious estatesized homes in east Sarasota. www.3825SarasotaGolfClub.com

$1,699,000

TO

B U YE R’ S

The epitome of coastal contemporary living at this gorgeous 5BR home. Designer finishes, seamless outdoor living, and dock. www.541ForeDrive.com

TO

B U YE R’ S

Country Club living at its finest! This furnished, updated 3BR+office home in University Park is ready to move right into! www.6641StJames.com

TO

B U YE R’ S

The walkable location of this St. Armands home will draw you in. Ideally situated on a 1/4-acre lot to design your dream home. www.201NorthWashington.com

TO

201 NORTH WASHINTON DRIVE

This 9th-floor Gulf-to-bay nearly 2,700 SF Water Club residence is a showcase of stunning views through walls of glass. www.WaterClubNorth906.com

B U YE R’ S

TO

B U YE R’ S

This reimagined 3BR getaway showcases breathtaking panoramic views with two coveted terraces and private two-car garage. www.TangerineBayClub136.com

TO

B U YE R’ S

Sweeping Gulf, bay, and spectacular city views set the stage for this elegant 5thfloor, 2BR+den getaway at L’Ambiance. www.435LAmbianceK506.com

TO

B U YE R’ S

Perfectly positioned on deep waters, this 3BR Bird Key residence captures the essence of relaxed coastal living. www.642SouthOwl.com

TO

3040 GRAND BAY BLVD #234

9818 OLD HYDE PARK PLACE

5311 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE #3

631 NORTH ORANGE AVENUE #208

$1,695,000

$1,499,000

$1,074,000

$439,000

This 3BR Cayman residence at Grand Bay is a flourish of direct bay, golf course, and downtown views. Includes parking! www.GrandBay234.com

This exquisitely updated 4BR home spans over 3,700 SF, with relaxing outdoor entertaining areas and tranquil lake views. www.9818OldHydePark.com

Turnkey furnished and ready to enjoy or rent.

Walk out from this 2BR getaway to enjoy the pristine beach shores! www.BeachCastle3.com

Charming 2BR retreat in the heart of downtown’s Rosemary District, with lovely updates and coveted covered parking. www.MentoneCourt208.com

MORE THAN $100 MILLION SOLD AND PENDING SINCE JANUARY 2025 443 John Ringling Boulevard, Suite F, Sarasota, FL 34236 | Pettingell.com | 941.387.1840 YouTube.com/@PettingellProfessionals | Instagram.com/RogerPettingell | Roger@Pettingell.com The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2023 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. 443826-1

32