Sarasota Observer 2.18.21

SARASOTA

Health Matters FEBRUARY 2021

Observer

INSIDE

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

BACK IN THE SADDLE

Equine therapy programs provide

BUSY AS A BEE

Why tending a garden is good for the soul.

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VOLUME 17, NO. 12

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an opportunity to flourish. PAGE 2

DEPRESSION UPS RISK

How mental health impacts your heart.

PAGE 8

PICTURE OF HEALTH

Holding yourself, fitness routine accountable.

PAGE 11

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

Affordable but artsy County, artist group negotiate over housing proposal. PAGE 3A

Courtesy Photo

Gratitude is in the bag

Students at the Hershorin Schiff Community Day School wanted to recognize the work of medical professionals recently by making and delivering dozens of Healthcare Hero Bags.

The students made the care bags for health care workers during their Panther Pride spirit day Feb. 11 as part of a community service project.

Each bag included a bottle of water, a B12 Emergen-C pack, chocolates, mints, granola bars, a handwritten note of thanks from a student and more.

Students and parents delivered the bags to Sarasota Memorial Hospital.

PAW-TY

TIME Humane Society celebrates a milestone, but the four-legged guests get the treats.

SEE PAGE 18A

Harry Sayer

Prince tears into his birthday treat last week at the Humane Society of Sarasota County’s 69th anniversary.

Courtesy Photo

Rotary rewards spokeswoman

Sarasota Police Department Public Information Officer Genevieve Judge specializes in providing information from the police department to the community.

It’s a busy job, and she was recently recognized for her work by the Rotary Club of Sarasota Sunrise.

The club awarded Judge with a Pride of Workmanship award at a ceremony at the Der Dutchman restaurant Feb. 11.

“She’s 24/7 on calls,” club President Teresa Taft said. “That morning that we gave her the award, she was woken up at 2 a.m. with a road closure. … She had to get on Facebook [to] post to the community [what] was happening.”

GOLF SECTION

Courtesy rendering

The pros play here.

INSIDE

A new play for the park?

Mayor rekindles talk of a city site for orchestra. SEE PAGE 4A

2A

WH AT’S H A PPENING

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

WEEK OF FEB. 18, 2021

BY THE NUMBERS $1.3 MILLION

Price offered by Arts and Cultural Alliance for 6.2 acres for affordable housing project for artists.

PAGE 3A

7

Acres of Payne Park, sought in 2019 by Sarasota Orchestra for a performance hall.

PAGE 4A

$13.25 MILLION

Price of a home in Harbor Acres, the second-highest price in Sarasota County.

PAGE 16A

CALENDAR n Sarasota County Commission meeting — 9 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 24, Commission Chambers, 1660 Ringling Blvd. n Sarasota City Commission meeting — 6 p.m. Monday, March 1 and Tuesday, March 2, City Hall, 1565 First St. n Sarasota County School Board meeting — 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 2, Landings Administrative Complex, 1980 Landings Blvd.

“Other than the director of the FBI, I do not know of any other government official that has a 10-year contract. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers only gave Tom Brady a two-year contract.”

SPD names deputy chief Sarasota Police Chief Jim Rieser announced his first major addition to his leadership team, promoting Rex Troche from captain to deputy chief.

Troche has worked for the Sarasota Police Department since 2002, according to a release. Troche has received several promotions during his time with the agency, advancing to sergeant in 2013, to lieutenant in 2017 and to captain in 2020.

He has a master’s degree in emergency management from St. Leo University. Troche is the first Hispanic officer within the SPD to achieve the ranks of captain and deputy chief.

The deputy chief position was vacated in December when former Deputy Chief Pat Robinson was named deputy city manager.

Sarasota Memorial Hospital board member Tramm Hudson, on CEO David Verinder’s contract.

READ MORE ON PAGE 9A

Selby plans gain final approval

O

n Tuesday, the Sarasota City Commission voted 4-1 to finalize approval of a site plan and other elements of a renovation project at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.

The vote authorizes the first phase of a redevelopment initiative Selby Gardens first filed plans for in 2017. Following public input and a rejection from the City Commission, the plans have been subject to several revisions.

Selby intends to construct a four-story, 450-space parking garage, an accessory restaurant and a 28,600-square-foot structure serving as a welcome center and plant research building.

Following the meeting, Selby said it hopes to break ground on the project this spring. The botanical garden has a threephase, $92 million renovation plan. Phase one is expected to cost $42.5 million, of which Selby has raised $35 million.

“We are thrilled to be able to stay in downtown Sarasota in a way that allows Selby Gardens to be environmentally and financially sustainable for generations to come,” Selby President and CEO Jennifer Rominiecki said in a release.

Mask use on buses mandatory Sarasota County has been encouraging the use of face coverings on public transit buses, but federal law now mandates the safety measure.

The rule applies to fixed routes, SCAT Plus and the Siesta Key Trolley for the duration of travel.

Face masks also are required at transportation hubs and transfer stations.

Director of SCAT Jane Grogg said the department will focus on educating the public throughout the next week with signs and through various media platforms.

Masks will be provided at transfer stations to residents who do not have one.

File photo

The botanical garden has a three-phase, $92 million renovation plan. Phase one is expected to cost $42.5 million, of which Selby has raised $35 million.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

3A

OTHER PROPOSALS

The county received six proposals for the property located at 4644 N. Tamiami Trail.

The county highlighted a proposal by the Arts and Cultural Alliance and Artspace as the No. 1 proposal, but others could still be considered if negotiations fall through.

ART OF A DEAL

BLUE SKY COMMUNITIES AND CASL Blue Sky Communities and local nonprofit Community Assisted & Supported Living partnered for a 92-unit project.

The companies offered the county approximately $1.47 million to build “NewTrail Plaza,” a three-story affordable housing building. Of the 92 units, 14 would be for those earning 30% AMI, 60 for those earning 60% AMI and 18 for those earning 80% AMI. The pair previously partnered to build Arbor Village, an affordable housing unit off Fruitville Road.

Brynn Mechem

The county is considering an artist live and work space for surplus land at 4644 N. Tamiami Trail.

Affordable housing proposal on surplus county land considers artist community.

BRYNN MECHEM STAFF WRITER

I

t’s seen countless times on TV and in the movies: an oftplayed out trope of a brilliant but struggling actor or artist working an odd job to make ends meet. But one local organization wants to avoid that necessity by making rent payments easier for area artists without cutting in on their passion.

The Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County teamed up with Artspace, a Minnesotabased affordable housing developer, to create a proposal for a live and work space for local artists as part of a request for ideas by county officials.

Out of six proposals, the project has won initial approval from Sarasota County to begin negotiating a deal for property located a 4644 N. Tamiami Trail.

The land, deemed surplus by the county and set aside for affordable housing projects, first received a bid from a Miami company in early 2020. After considering the proposal, commissioners opened a process for the land to receive more applicants.

Among the bids were an array of options, including space for vet-

erans and low-income residents, but county commissioners voted to begin negotiations with the Arts and Cultural Alliance.

Commissioners were keen to build an arts space on the lot because of its proximity to arts institutions, such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum, the Ringling College of Art and Design, and the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.

“I think this area of the county is very ripe for a focus on arts and culture.”

— Commissioner Christian Ziegler

“I think this area of the county is very ripe for a focus on arts and culture,” Commissioner Christian Ziegler said. “That’s really where the hub is, … and I think this is a key cultural piece for us that will add to that puzzle.”

Artspace, which has been working with the Arts and Cultural Alliance for more than six years, initially proposed a 64-unit artist

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project on the 6.2 acres, offering $1.3 million for the land, which the county purchased for $1.2 million in 2015.

Other proposals offered more money, with one more than doubling the value, but Commissioner Nancy Detert said that wasn’t the point.

“That’s not why we’re doing this,” she said. “We surplussed the property to have a vehicle for affordable housing. The most important thing to me is choosing the one that is most qualified and has a good chance of success.”

The plans include several buildings, pavilions and a 4.2-acre park. Commissioners, however, said that because the property backs up to North Water Tower Park, they preferred the company double the number of units and scratch the park idea.

Unlike other proposals, Artspace did not have a clear outline for residential income limits.

Commissioners want the units to be made affordable for households earning 80% of the area median income or less.

The AMI for 2020 in Sarasota County is $76,700, bringing 80% to a total of $61,200. This would mean that rent for households making 80% of the AMI could not exceed $1,530 a month.

“If we want to be the cultural capital, we need to remember that all these people that are starting in the ballet, the orchestra, the Asolo, they are all starting at extremely low paychecks,” Commission Chair Al Maio said.

The proposal stated construction would begin in 2023, with 100% occupancy by 2026. Every other proposal would have placed occupants by no later than 2024.

Commissioners voted 5-0 to first move forward with the Arts and Cultural Alliance proposal under these conditions: n There will be at least a 50% increase in the purchase price; n There will be at least a 50% increase in the number of units; n The park plan will be removed; and n The AMI will be 80% or less.

Should the project fall through, commissioners also included two other proposals for staff to negotiate as backup: a 95-unit project

by Blue Sky Communities and Community Assisted & Supported Living and an affordable complex by Southport Development.

CARRFOUR SUPPORTIVE HOUSING The Miami-based nonprofit first approached with a proposal in early 2020. It is offering the county $1.9 million over two phases.

The two-phase project would include a minimum of 80 units in the first phase with the potential of a total 219 units at the end of the second phase.

It is proposing 14 units for those earning 30% AMI, 44 units for those earning 60% AMI and 32 units for those earning 70% AMI. Carrfour officials said the concept could function for a variety of needs, including affordable, workforce, senior living or supportive housing for disabled or formerly homeless people, based on the county’s preference.

FALCONE GROUP The Falcone Group, a real estate and land development business, offered $1 million.

It proposed multiple three-story buildings to create a 156-unit complex that would be complete in 2022. The units would be one- and two-bedroom.

It proposed 20 units for those earning 50% of the AMI, 20 for those earning 60%, 64 for those earning 80% and 52 for those earning 100%.

The property also would include a clubhouse, pool, fitness center and commercial area for a local nonprofit to provide services from.

SOUTHPORT DEVELOPMENT Southport Development, a Tampa-based company, offered the county $2.8 million — more than double the assessed property value.

The proposal included 134 units with a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom units. Rent for 13 units would be set at 33% AMI while rent for the remaining 121 units would be set at 60% AMI. It also would have 5,000 square feet for a clubhouse, a business center, a fitness center and other amenities.

THE VETERAN HOUSING COALITION The Veteran Housing Coalition proposed a minimum of 75 units in a mixed-use development that would offer housing and work to veterans.

The proposal includes storefronts to employ veterans, facilities for mental health counseling, fitness rooms and a vegetable garden.

The coalition asked the county to donate the land and sign a long-term lease, under the condition that it would develop and operate the future complex.

Coalition officials do not yet know what the cost of the units would be. The coalition is conducting a survey of local veterans to determine their incomes before setting prices.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

Siesta parking, circle plans funded The County Commission approves a budget amendment of $610,000 to pay for both projects.

struction on the project could begin in the fall or winter.

A staff memo states the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce provided project information to surrounding community groups about the parking plan and several provided feedback against the project, citing safety concerns.

The parking spaces will be angled, with vehicles backing up into Ocean Boulevard. In a letter to its members, Siesta Key Condominium Council leaders stated concerns that the spots would create a bottleneck.

County staff will use the remaining $360,000 to fund the design of a roundabout at the intersection of Midnight Pass Road and Beach Road.

Improvements to the intersection have been in the works since 2015, and the project will be funded by the Florida Department of Transportation.

Despite a 2020 county survey that found out of 552 respondents, 33% favored a roundabout, commissioners moved ahead.

Although FDOT will cover the cost of construction, the county is responsible for the design.

Anderson said the roundabout, just south of the main public Siesta Key Beach access, would be more efficient at continuing a flow of traffic.

Construction is expected to begin as early as summer 2022 as part of a broader resurfacing project.

BRYNN MECHEM STAFF WRITER

It took just more than a minute for commissioners to approve the next steps to two Siesta Key road projects that have caused controversy on the island.

On Jan. 26, commissioners approved a formal $610,000 budget amendment to allow the construction of 22 parking spaces on the northern end of the Siesta Village and design of a roundabout at the intersection of Midnight Pass and Beach roads.

Although board members could have requested a presentation on the measures, they did not. They opened and closed the issue with an unanimous vote in one minute and 12 seconds.

The parking project, which will add 22 public spaces along Ocean Boulevard in front of The Old Salty Dog, has been in the works for about five years.

In November 2020, commissioners requested an amendment to the 2021 budget to accommodate the project at an estimated expense of $250,000.

Director of Public Works Spencer Anderson estimated con-

SARASOTA & SIESTA KEY

Observer

File photo

Opponents and supporters of the Sarasota Orchestra’s initial venue proposal packed the commission chambers during a meeting in May 2019.

Mayor suggests reconsidering Payne Park as orchestra home In an email to city staff Friday, Hagen Brody said he wanted the commission to revisit its prohibition on using the land in and around Payne Park for a new music hall.

DAVID CONWAY DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR

In May 2019, in front of a packed chamber at City Hall, the City Commission voted 4-1 to rule out the use of any land at Payne Park to facilitate a new venue for the Sarasota Orchestra.

As the orchestra continues to search for a long-term home — and focuses its attention on sites outside of the city limits — Mayor Hagen Brody thinks the city should reconsider the prohibition it adopted nearly two years ago.

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In an email to City Manager Marlon Brown on Friday, Brody asked to place an item on the March 1 commission agenda that, if approved, would allow the city to once again explore the use of land in Payne Park with the orchestra.

Brody, who voted against the use of land in Payne Park in 2019, said he continues to oppose the specific plan the orchestra presented at the time. The Sarasota Orchestra sought to use 7 acres of the 39-acre park to construct a venue with an 1,800-seat concert hall and a 700-seat flexible recital hall.

But Brody said circumstances have changed since the commission’s initial vote. At the time, Brody said he had not seen enough research into the viability of other sites within the city limits. After that meeting, Brody said he discovered that multiple properties he suspected were suitable for a venue were not actually feasible for various reasons.

The orchestra has said Payne Park is the only viable music hall site it identified in the city. Following the 2019 vote, the orchestra announced it was expanding its search to sites outside of the city limits. Joe McKenna, the president and CEO of the Sarasota Orchestra, reaffirmed Friday the organization continues to focus on options in Sarasota County as it pursues a new venue.

Fearful of losing the orchestra as a cultural institution for the city, Brody said he believed the time was right to once again explore Payne Park as an option.

The orchestra’s initial proposal drew outspoken opposition from park users and residents who objected to the idea of giving up public green space for a perform-

Mayor Hagen Brody says he’s still not supportive of the Sarasota Orchestra’s 2019 proposal for a venue in Payne Park as depicted in this rendering. Still, he wants to empower staff to explore options in the area.

Courtesy rendering

ing arts hall.

Brody noted that, during his time on the board, the city has approved the creation of more than 150 acres of public park space on the bayfront, at Bobby Jones Golf Club and in the Rosemary District.

“I don’t think anyone can say this is not a commission that’s supportive of public parks and green space,” Brody said. “We’re just also supportive of the arts.”

The commission’s 2019 discussion included legal questions about whether the orchestra could build a facility at Payne Park. The property carries a deed restriction stating the land should be used “for park, playground and kindred uses and for no other use or purpose.” City Attorney Robert Fournier said that the city could argue a music hall fit that description, but the use could be subject to challenge.

“I don’t think anyone can say this is not a commission that’s supportive of public parks and green space. We’re just also supportive of the arts.”

— Hagen Brody

Brody said he just wanted to give the city and the orchestra the option to discuss the use of Payne Park, noting that the rest of the commission would need to support his proposal, and the orchestra would ultimately need to put together a plan the board was willing to adopt.

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“If the commission agrees and wants to give them the option to explore it, it’ll be up to [the orchestra] and city staff and other community partners to work out a concept that is mutually beneficial,” Brody said.

McKenna said Friday he had not seen Brody’s emails and could not speak to the specifics of his proposal. McKenna said the orchestra has not actively considered Payne Park as an option for a venue following the 2019 vote, and the organization is focused on creating a regional music center that meets its long-term needs.

“What do we need to do to make sure the Sarasota Orchestra thrives and contributes to the vitality of the Sarasota region?”

McKenna said. “That’s what guides us.”

McKenna did not share specifics on the status of the site search process, stating the orchestra is

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

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eager to find a new home and will update the public when its work is complete.

“When it’s there, we’ll be in touch,” McKenna said.

Earlier this month, the Downtown Improvement District expressed its interest in lobbying the city and the orchestra to reconsider the option of using land in or around Payne Park for a music hall. Mark Kauffman, a DID board member and the owner of multiple properties near Payne Park, said he had spoken to multiple commissioners who were supportive of the idea.

In a February interview with the Sarasota Observer, Commissioner Jen Ahearn-Koch said she would be open to discussing options adjacent to the park with the orchestra, but she remained opposed to the idea of using parkland.

“I think the key there was ‘in or around [Payne Park],’” AhearnKoch said. “In? No. Around?

That’s a whole different discussion.”

Brody, Ahearn-Koch and Liz Alpert are the only commissioners who remain on the board from the 2019 vote. Alpert was the lone commissioner to express support for the orchestra’s initial Payne Park proposal.

Brody said he wanted the city to rekindle its conversation with the Sarasota Orchestra now because he felt officials needed to be proactive about keeping the organization within city limits.

“We just can’t afford to lose the orchestra if we’re going to continue to consider ourselves a cultural hub and center of culture for the west coast of Florida,” Brody said.

“We have to maintain the cultural and artistic mainstays we’ve had in our community for decades.”

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

Rooftop bar triggers noise concerns

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esidents and city officials are raising vocal concerns about noise from the rooftop bar at the Art Ovation hotel on Palm Avenue.

At the Feb. 1 City Commission meeting, Commissioner Jen Ahearn-Koch said a series of events at the Perspective Rooftop Pool Bar triggered complaints from people living nearby the downtown hotel.

“I could hear it from my house, and I live a mile and a quarter away,” Ahearn-Koch said. “It was just over the top.”

Shortly before midnight Feb. 12, Sarasota Police Department officers found the Art Ovation property in violation of the city’s noise ordinance. Because the bar manager had received a warning earlier this year, the police issued a notice to appear in court.

Andrew Clearie, a resident of the Bay Plaza condominium on Gulfstream Avenue, appeared at Tuesday’s commission meeting to share his experience as a neighbor of Art Ovation. He said music from the rooftop bar has created issues for more than two years.

Clearie said his wife covers her head with a pillow to get to sleep, and he sometimes takes refuge in an interior closet.

“We have had Sarasota city police on our balcony between

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In addition to citing the property for noise violations, the city is investigating whether the hotel bar is operating in compliance with zoning regulations. At the direction of City Manager Marlon Brown, the city sent a letter to representatives for Art Ovation requesting information on the operations of the rooftop bar.

The letter, sent Jan. 26, notes that the city continues to receive complaints about noise associated with the business. The letter also highlights the zoning code definition of a bar and restaurant — the former “devoted primarily to the retailing and on-premises drinking of … alcoholic beverages,” the other principally devoted to both food and beverages.

Stephen Rees, an attorney representing Art Ovation, said the hotel was approved and is operating as a hotel — which is allowed to have ancillary facilities including a restaurant and bar. Rees said the hotel has a singular restaurant operation with a full liquor license, which covers the rooftop bar, the Overture Restaurant and room service. Rees also said the hotel has taken steps to monitor and address noise issues.

A spokesperson said the city is reviewing the response from the hotel. Ahearn-Koch has asked staff to place an item about the hotel on the agenda.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

SARASOTA / SIESTA KEY

OPINION / OUR VIEW

Strife on the SMH board When a member of the Sarasota Hospital Board challenged the majority, he became personanon-grata. The board’s response raises curiosity: Is it a board for taxpayers or management?

MATT WALSH

W

hen you think about all the wonderful and valuable community assets in Greater Sarasota and Bradenton, you would probably find universal agreement that Sarasota Memorial Healthcare System is among the top three on the list. For sure among the top five.

And likewise, there would be widespread agreement that under the directions, first, of former CEO Gwen MacKenzie and for the past six years, in particular, CEO David Verinder, Sarasota Memorial Hospital and its affiliates have matured into the top tier of Florida’s best-run health care institutions, as well as in many instances in the nation.

Certainly, the financial results and accolades speak to this.

No one person, of course, is entirely responsible for SMHCS’s growth and achievements. In an institution this size, it takes teams of talented people committed to the mission.

Nevertheless, this is also true: Success indeed starts with the leadership at the top. Rare is the successful business enterprise that doesn’t have a principled, charismatic, intelligent, visionary CEO, a CEO who has the ability to imbue his or her staff with the values, commitment and standards to make a great organization.

Crucial to that CEO’s talents is an ability to build a strong team of leaders who can spread the culture.

But often, there is another ingredient just as crucial to an organization’s success. In the case of many businesses and organizations, the buck stops at the board of directors. Its members are the ultimate guide and check and balance on the CEO and everything that the organization does.

And if the directors are serving properly as fiduciaries protecting and representing stockholders, or in this case taxpayers, one of their important jobs is to challenge the CEO and the organization’s leadership; to question decisions, assumptions and strategies; to test leadership to rise to a higher level.

In contrast, if the directors merely become cheerleaders, friends and advocates for all that senior management does, rarely asking tough questions, inevitably this can become a recipe for danger, lax oversight and, at worst, destruction.

We cite all of this in light of revelations that became public last week regarding two issues involving the Sarasota County Hospital Board — issues that would be of great importance to

any company’s board of directors: n The transfer of funds from the company to a related company, which in turn used some of that money to fund a political action committee; and n Whether the CEO should be granted what amounts to a 10-year employment contract.

One board member, Tramm Hudson — former longtime Sarasota banker, former chair of the Republican Party of Sarasota County and recently reelected to his second term on the hospital board — has been the lone challenger to both decisions and in the process has become something of a pariah in what heretofore has appeared to be a board of collegial consensus.

Hudson essentially went rogue over the past month. Unable to win board support for his position, he took his case to the press, in this instance the Sarasota Herald-Tribune. And last week, the Herald-Tribune brought to public attention the two controversies that have been recorded in the public minutes of multiple hospital board and committee meetings. $50,000 MANEUVERS

It’s a complicated yarn. Following political money is often that way.

But the seed for tensions on the Sarasota County Hospital Board took root in October 2019.

According to hospital board documents, SMHCS CEO Verinder discussed with Hudson, then chair of SMHCS’s Audit Committee, the idea of using a not-for-profit condominium association owned by the hospital “as a possible unrestricted donor” to Save Our Community Hospital, a 6-year-old political action committee.

Hudson objected, telling Verinder he thought it was illegal to use taxpayer funds in political activity. In a July 27, 2020, letter to Verinder, Hudson wrote: “Because taxpayer dollars are involved, any contribution of district funds to a political committee should be approved by the district board.”

The issue is complicated in large part because of all the machinations and maneuvering involved.

It starts with the hospital being among the owners of an

office condominium on Arlington Street in Sarasota, just south of the hospital, known as Doctors Gardens. Over 20 years, the hospital bought control of 29 of the 30 units in the building. Plans called eventually for tearing the building down and redeveloping the property.

As controlling owner of the building, five members of SMH senior management comprised the board of the Doctors Gardens Association, the condo’s homeowner association.

The association in turn in 2020 assessed its unit owners (e.g., the hospital) $275,000 for roof upkeep and other maintenance needs. Along the way, the association board also voted to amend the association’s bylaws to allow it to make contributions to not-for-profit and charitable organizations.

After all of this, the board voted to contribute $50,000 out of the $275,000 assessment to Save Our Community Hospital.

All along the way in early 2020, and over at least three audit committee and general board meetings, Hudson raised questions and requested the hospital board bring in outside counsel to determine whether all of the transactions were legal.

By summer, when Hudson’s objections reached Morgan Bentley, Sarasota lawyer and chair of Save Our Community Hospital PAC, Bentley refunded the $50,000. In a June 24, 2020, letter, Bentley explained: “In the divisive age in which we live, I try to ‘err on the side of caution’ with any donation.

Anyone with a laptop can file an election complaint against both the donor and the donee, often resulting in unnecessary legal expense for both parties. Here, the donation is legal; however, the issue involves the wording of the [association’s] amended declaration dated Dec. 20, 2019.”

But Hudson persisted. At a July board meeting, he made a motion to bring in outside counsel to determine the legality of the contributions and what the board’s political contribution guidelines should be going forward. The board voted 9-1 against Hudson’s motion.

Instead, according to the Herald-Tribune, the board relied on the opinions of two independent

SMH’s STORY OF FINANCIAL GROWTH

FT Employees Admissions

2014 2019 2020

3,116 5,604 5,822 27,488 50,288 48,060

FINANCIAL RESULTS ($ in millions) Operating revenues $590,128 $985,413 $986,229 Operating income $40,271 $91,531 $45,470 Surplus $83,554 $200,565 $150,881 Total assets $1,362,821 $2,288,919 $2,701,752 Total net position $699,483 $1,354,090 $1,509,065 RATIOS Operating margin Days cash on hand Debt service coverage Cash to debt

11.0% 455 4.6 158.5%

13.4% 435 5.9 160.7%

9.4% 541 4.9 213.1%

Source: SMH annual financial statements

attorneys, the hospital’s auditors, the board’s general counsel and the health system’s chief in-house lawyer and compliance officer.

WHOM DO THEY REPRESENT?

Is this much ado about nothing?

It’s a long-standing practice in Florida that public and governmental agencies use taxpayers’ dollars for political purposes.

Practically every city and county in Florida pays for lobbyists in Tallahassee. School boards hire lobbyists. And whenever school boards need to extend their one-mill or one-cent sales tax for local education, they can and do use taxpayer funds to educate the public — not urge you how to vote. Wink. Wink.

What is striking about this period of strife on the hospital board are lessons that apply to all boards and city and county commissions. We’re not saying what follows is the case for the Sarasota County Hospital Board, but the fact there was and is such overwhelming resistance to Hudson triggers curiosity: n Beware of the board that becomes management’s friend, that rarely questions or challenges management. No one likes being associated with constant strife, and certainly, no CEO wants to have a board that makes his or her life miserable.

At the same time, every CEO should welcome board members whose questions and insights will hold them accountable and make them better CEOs. n Board members, at the same time, must always remember whom they are representing. We see it often: After town commissioners are elected on their platforms of representing and being defenders of taxpayers’ interests, once they get nestled into their positions of power, they shift to become defenders of the town government and the institution, with taxpayers secondary concerns. n If any deal or transaction requires complicated maneuvering and machinations, as did the Doctors Gardens contribution, it’s usually flawed and shouldn’t be done. Everyone learns in the end: Be open and up front.

Clever, crafty maneuvering typically has a funny smell and often creates perceptions that lead to long stories in newspapers.

To be sure, Verinder and the hospital board no doubt didn’t appreciate reading in the HeraldTribune what they did (Bentley, an elections lawyer, says it was legal), but from the taxpayers’ perspective, Hudson and the Herald-Tribune performed a public service. It’s always good to shine a light on actions that involve taxpayer money.

This controversy takes nothing away from Sarasota Memorial Healthcare System being the first-rate operation that it is.

It simply serves as a reminder of the delicate nature of public credibility.

“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.”

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Hospital board extends CEO’s contract to 2031 The board voted on several provisions for Verinder’s eight-year contract extension but could not agree on future consulting service stipulations.

BRYNN MECHEM STAFF WRITER

The Sarasota County Public Hospital Board on Tuesday approved several provisions of President and CEO David Verinder’s eightyear contract extension, despite some board members’ concerns that a 10-year total contract would hobble future boards.

Verinder has worked for Sarasota Memorial Hospital for 15 years and has been president and CEO since 2014 after former CEO Gwen MacKenzie stepped down.

The hospital board in December 2020 voted 8-1 to extend his current two-year contract another eight years, contingent on details confirmed at Tuesday’s meeting. His contract now expires Dec. 31, 2031. Tuesday’s final vote was 8-1.

During a governance effec-

tiveness committee meeting Tuesday, board member Tramm Hudson — who cast the dissenting vote — and Board Chair James Meister expressed concern over the 10-year contract, though they favored a shorter renewal.

“Other than the director of the FBI, I do not know of any other government official that has a 10-year contract,” Hudson said.

“The Tampa Bay Buccaneers only gave Tom Brady a two-year contract.”

Because Meister originally voted in favor of the eight-year extension during December’s meeting, he could have reopened the discussion for a new vote on the extension length but chose not to.

“The consensus of the board based on the December vote was that there’s nothing inappropriate to a 10-year contract,” Meister said. “So if that decision was made, and the board is not willing to rethink it, why raise it?”

The board in December also granted Verinder a salary increase from $1,045,000 in 2020 to $1,125,000 in 2021, a 7.1% increase. Verinder’s performance is reviewed annually, and each December the board determines his salary for the following year.

SMH public relations man-

Courtesy photo

David Verinder’s raise to $1,125,000 annually as president and CEO of Sarasota Memorial Hospital is in the 75th percentile of comparable CEOs.

ager Kim Savage said the increase shifted Verinder from the 65th percentile of CEOs in comparable roles to the 75th percentile.

During Tuesday’s meeting, board members discussed and approved several terms of Verinder’s new contract including clauses for early termination, expanded cause provisions and noncompete waivers.

The contract includes an early termination agreement that outlines procedures for termination with and without cause. The new contract has tighter stipulations for without-cause termination, which attorney Kim Walker said

are typical.

For the board to terminate the contract with cause, it must have a two-thirds vote before giving Verinder an opportunity to cure the performance. If performance is not better after the opportunity to cure, the board can terminate him with 120 days’ notice.

Although they approved most of the contract’s provisions, board members could not agree on a provision related to consulting services after Verinder’s contract is finished.

The contract as proposed would have retained Verinder as a consultant for 24 months. In

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

9A

lieu of severance pay, Verinder would be an exclusive consultant to SMH for an annual fee of 20% of his final annual base salary plus health care benefits.

“When you think about 10 years from now, what his salary could be, just assume the 3% [raise] a year we normally give,” Hudson said.

“This could easily be as much as $500,000 a year, and in my experience, they rarely get a phone call to come in.”

Board members Sarah Lodge and Richard Rehmeyer expressed similar concerns.

Board member Britt Riner said that she thinks the consulting agreement is too long, but most hospitals would pay any price to keep a successful CEO on as a consultant and protect SMH’s institutional knowledge.

“The hospital is doing well, and clearly, we can attribute that to great leadership,” Riner said. “I would imagine any other health care system in our area would be delighted to pay any price that they could to acquire our CEO for knowledge and trade secrets.”

Lisa Dietrich, a principal and senior compensation and benefits consultant for Mercer, said it’s not uncommon to have a transition period from one CEO to the next, but they typically last 12 months or less. She said the 20% salary was commensurate with the market.

In the end, board members agreed to set aside the consulting services provision.

“I feel very privileged to come to work every day and work for and serve this community and this hospital system,” Verinder said.

“Thank you for allowing me to continue to do that.”

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

St. Armands group revises its public restroom plan Rather than build permanent structures in the medians, property owners are advancing two options for adding restrooms to the Circle.

The carousel proposal, depicted in this concept image, has drawn early concerns from residents worried about increased traffic.

DAVID CONWAY

ST. ARMANDS CENTERPIECES

DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR

Could a carousel be coming to St. Armands Circle Park? How about a statue of Nik Wallenda?

The St. Armands Business Improvement District discussed a pair of concepts Wednesday that would add new features to the park at the center of the barrier island commercial hub. The board expressed preliminary support for both.

The carousel proposal came from Jeff Koffman of Ride Entertainment, a company that provides services to theme parks and other amusement facilities. In addition to the carousel, Koffman’s proposal for the park included games, swings and photo-friendly circus-themed features, all within a roped-off area requiring a fee.

A group brought the concept of the Wallenda statue to city staff in 2020 and got a positive response, Planning Director Steve Cover said. Cover said the idea was to do an interactive piece that would allow visitors to pose alongside the artwork.

The group has not developed a design or raised funds for the art, which likely wouldn’t be complete until 2022 even if the city supports the idea, Cover said.

Both proposals drew some questions from the BID about permanence, aesthetics and the flexibility to accommodate events in the park. Still, board members encouraging both presenters to move forward.

Board member Gavin Meshad said the ideas were in line with the group’s efforts to revitalize St. Armands Circle and add more amenities. Even if the carousel and statue don’t work out, the BID is interested in making changes to make St. Armands Circle Park more of an attraction.

“It’s an underutilized asset in the Circle,” Meshad said.

A

fter spending five years developing plans for a free-standing restroom facility, the St. Armands Business Improvement District is moving toward scrapping that project and pursuing alternate options for public restrooms.

At its Feb. 10 meeting, the St. Armands BID agreed to procure temporary public bathrooms in the form of luxury trailers, estimated to cost around $20,000 for four months. The group did not finalize a location for the restrooms but targeted the public parking lot on Fillmore Drive.

The BID also agreed to gather information about a potential long-term option for public restrooms: leasing the commercial space at 21 Fillmore Drive.

Although the BID did not have detailed cost estimates for the lease or other expenses, the group believed it would offer savings over building a new structure.

Since 2016, the BID has been

Courtesy photos

Marketing consultant Joe Grano provided concept images showcasing what a luxury restroom trailer could look like with custom skinning.

focused primarily on constructing bathrooms in the medians on the Circle, spending about $90,000 on engineering and other preconstruction expenses. The latest estimates place the cost of building the BID’s preferred design at $480,877 for a two-building, three-stall restroom project.

At the Feb. 10 meeting, board member Gavin Meshad continued to express concern about a commitment to a permanent stand-alone restroom structure.

“I think we’re going to look back in five or 10 years and say, ‘Wow, what did we do?’” Meshad said. “‘Why did we put something

that we’re stuck with forever in this median?’”

The board discussed questions they would need to answer before finalizing the use of the commercial space on Fillmore Drive, including design details and staffing. Although the group was looking for an opportunity to save costs, board member Geoffrey Michel said he didn’t want a bare-bones space.

“We want it to be special; we want it to feel good,” he said. “I don’t want this to be a Band-Aid. I want it to be a really healthy solution that happens to be the least cost.”

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

Student testing data shows a slide Curriculum directors say it will take a targeted approach to overcome COVID-19 effects on learning.

BRYNN MECHEM STAFF WRITER

Despite early tests showing just a small hint of a “COVID-19 slide,” more recent testing data shows that more Sarasota students are struggling than in previous years.

The district uses i-Ready Diagnostic scale scores for elementary and middle school students to determine student progress both individually and as a group.

When tested in September, elementary and middle school students’ scores remained consistent to the previous three years in English and trended downward in math. After a second round of tests in December, a downward trend is evident in all areas.

Students this year received eight or nine weeks of instruction between diagnostic tests compared to 12-14 weeks in between last year. Superintendent Bren-

nan Asplen said that additional instruction time could have contributed to better testing scores.

According to data presented to the school board, 50% of elementary students are at least one grade level behind in math compared to 40% last year, while 39% of students are at least one grade level behind in elementary reading compared to 32% last year.

Elementary Curriculum Director Kelly Ellington said she and her team are sifting through the data to analyze it at each grade level and create action steps designed to reverse the trend.

At the middle school level, 57% of students are at least one grade level behind in math compared to 51% last year, and 44% of students are at least one grade level behind in reading compared to 40% last year.

The data for math excludes about 2,430 algebra and geometry

Courtesy photo

Superintendent Brennan Asplen says contributing factors to the decrease in student progress include teachers navigating concurrent learning, more students opting for virtual learning and a lack of full-time teachers.

students, who are the highestachieving math students, Middle School Curriculum Director Sue Meckler said.

Meckler said many students who are more than one grade level behind are showing improvements but are still behind at least

one grade level, which would still show a decrease in the data.

She said middle school instructors are focused on how to improve their instruction and create better goals for struggling students.

“Teachers know how to adjust the instructional pathways of

those students to make sure that they are passing their lessons within the personalized instruction,” Meckler said. “We are goalsetting with the students, so they take ownership of their data.”

High school students use different tests than younger students to benchmark data. Those results have not yet been presented to the board. However, High School Curriculum Director Catherine Cocozza said high school students are performing better than expected in reading.

Asplen said contributing factors to the decrease among younger students include teachers navigating concurrent learning, more students opting for virtual learning and a lack of fulltime teachers.

Last year, COVID-19 and athome learning led state officials to cancel state testing.

However, Florida Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran issued an emergency order Monday that states testing will go on, but in an expanded time frame from early April to mid-June.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

County OKs resolution seeking local marijuana control Detert votes against resolution, saying if county voters approve recreational use in a statewide election, commissioners should honor their wishes.

BRYNN MECHEM STAFF WRITER

As federal and state lawmakers take efforts toward allowing recreational marijuana, local officials have asked the Florida Legislature to allow local government control over the drug, should it become legal statewide.

The resolution passed with a 4-1 vote, with Commissioner Nancy Detert voting against.

Those for the resolution stressed that the resolution does not mean they would reject recreational marijuana in the future; they would just like the option to do so.

Detert said if county residents were to vote in favor of legalization in a Florida election, it is the commission’s job to implement the will of the people.

“Eventually, the people will get to vote as to whether they want recreational marijuana or not, whether we like it or not,” Detert said. “We implement what the people want.”

As local proposals have come forward in recent years requesting medical marijuana dispensaries, commissioners have voiced

concern that should recreational marijuana be legalized at the federal or state level, those dispensaries could flip to recreational sales.

It seems Florida is closer than ever to that reality.

In December, the U.S. House of Representatives voted to decriminalize marijuana at the federal level. In Florida, a constitutional amendment that would make marijuana available to all adults for personal use could make its way to the Florida 2022 ballots.

To get ahead of legislation, commissioners on Feb. 9 adopted a resolution to request that Florida Legislature preserve local government home rule.

The resolution asks state lawmakers when crafting any bill that would legalize recreational marijuana to allow local government authority to regulate recreational marijuana. This would allow the county and not the state to have final say on if recreational marijuana is legal in Sarasota County.

The resolution states that local governments are better situated to determine the compatibility of land uses, public health and public safety for their communities.

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Commissioner Mike Moran says he doesn’t want his fingerprints on anything that allows recreational marijuana in the county.

Commissioner Christian Ziegler clarified that the resolution is not for or against recreational marijuana; it would just give the county government local authority over the cultivation and distribution of recreational marijuana if the state takes action.

The resolution is not a law and instead allows the board to state its position to the state as it considers future laws.

“All we’re stating in this resolution is that we’re expressing our desire to make a decision on behalf of Sarasota County,” Ziegler said.

During Tuesday’s meeting, commissioners said that in previous reporting, local media made it seem as if the county wanted to opt out of recreational marijuana sales. Instead, they just want the option for future board members, they said.

However, several board members did make it clear that they oppose the sale of recreational

marijuana.

Commissioner Mike Moran said he isn’t “going to have [his] fingerprints” on anything that brings recreational marijuana to the county.

“The last thing that I think America needs right now is people sitting at home, smoking dope and making TikTok videos,” Moran said.

In past public hearings on proposed medical marijuana dispensaries, Moran has tried and failed to elicit promises that the applicants would never sell recreational marijuana.

Detert was against the resolution because, as a former member of both the Florida House and Senate, she didn’t think it would do any good. She said the county is already on the record in favor of local control.

“It’s going in somebody’s round file in Tallahassee the minute they receive it,” she said.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

FEB. 11

The Observer’s

Weather

FOOD FIGHT 11:08 a.m. — 1300 block of Main Street Dispute: An officer spoke to a restaurant customer, who said she requested to speak to a chef because she had become sick in the past from eating the food.

The customer said she did not break anything or touch anyone but admitted to raising her voice. Another officer spoke to the manager, who confirmed the dispute was verbal and that the customer did not damage anything.

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FEB. 11

HIT AND RUN 9:18 a.m. — 1500 block of Ringling Drive Dispute: A woman said a bicyclist yelled at her and smacked her car after entering a parking garage before leaving. The woman’s vehicle was not damaged. Officers told her to call back if she saw the cyclist again.

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REPEAT OFFENDER 11:42 p.m. — 1200 block of North Palm Avenue Noise complaint: A woman said she would call police every weekend until ongoing noise issues at a nearby bar is resolved. Officers took a noise reading and found the bar violated the city’s sound ordinance. Officers also found the bar manager received a previous warning about noise violations.

FEB. 13

BOOKED UP 8:34 p.m. — 900 block of University Parkway

Misc. officer: Two hotel guests booked their room online for an 11-day stay, but when they arrived, an employee told them the system did not accept their credit card. When they attempted to book the room again, another customer had taken the reservation. Staff was able to book the guests for the rest of their stay, but the hotel was full the night of their arrival. Other nearby hotels were also booked. After calling several hotels, officers found a room for the guests.

FEB. 14

HEAR NO EVIL 11:39 p.m. — 1800 block of Fifth Street Noise complaint: Responding to a noise complaint, an officer found six individuals sitting on a front porch, but they were not playing music, and the officer did not observe any noise violations.

The officer told them that someone had made a complaint.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

15A

City works to fill leadership roles Top positions in city administration and the Sarasota Police Department have opened up in the past 10 weeks, but the new city manager is optimistic about a smooth transition.

DAVID CONWAY DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR

S

351459-1

ince Dec. 7, the city has announced the hiring of a city manager, deputy city manager, chief of police and deputy police chief.

The city has also accepted the resignations of former City Manager Tom Barwin, former Police Chief Bernadette DiPino and former Assistant City Manager John Lege.

Despite the turnover in some of the city’s top leadership positions, there aren’t new faces stepping into City Hall or the Sarasota Police Department. The city has focused on internal promotions to fill roles. Marlon Brown, formerly deputy city manager, is now city manager. Brown promoted Pat Robinson, former deputy police chief, to deputy city manager.

Brown also selected Jim Rieser, an SPD captain, as the new chief of police. Rieser elevated Capt. Rex Troche to deputy chief.

During an introductory news conference for Rieser, Brown said he wanted to prioritize promoting from within whenever possible and appropriate. Brown said there are several reasons for this philosophy. He values people who have built a relationship with the community and the organization

in which they’re working. Conducting a statewide or national job search can be costly and time-consuming, and external candidates have a learning curve before they have a full grasp on local issues.

“When you have that talent within, and someone who comes up through the ranks has made those relationships and connections both internally and externally, it’s an easy decision,” Brown said.

The city has not only focused on internal promotions but also moved swiftly to fill open leadership positions. The City Commission signaled its intent to hire Brown as city manager at the same meeting it finalized Barwin’s retirement plan. Three days later, Brown announced Robinson would step into the deputy city manager role. Less than 48 hours after DiPino’s resignation became public, the city introduced Rieser as her replacement.

Brown, who’s worked for the city since 2009, said his familiarity with staff has helped him feel comfortable acting decisively in response to job openings. He noted that both Robinson and Rieser had ascended up the ranks of the Sarasota Police Department and had good reputations among their colleagues and members of

Courtesy photos

Left to right: City Manager Marlon Brown; Deputy City Manager Pat Robinson

Left to right: Police Chief Jim Rieser; Deputy Police Chief Rex Troche

the public.

For Rieser, appointing Troche as deputy chief was just the first in a series of forthcoming command staff hires for the Sarasota Police Department. Rieser said he would eventually be naming two captains, two lieutenants and two sergeants. Both Brown and Rieser

listed the ability to effectively engage with the community as a leading quality they were looking for in top employees.

Still less than a month into his new position, Rieser expressed excitement about the opportunity to fill out the organization’s leadership roles.

“I think when the community sees who these people are, they’re going to know what I know: that they are amazingly capable, hard workers, and they have the city of Sarasota, this profession — law enforcement, this institution — and the officers and the civilians at this agency at their heart,” Rieser said.

Although Brown said he valued continuity when announcing Rieser’s promotion, he also doesn’t see the recent vacancies and hires as disruptive. He noted the changes affected just three of more than a dozen positions at the department-head level or higher, and he was confident all city staff members would be able to keep the local government operating smoothly. Brown also said he would not be filling Lege’s assistant city manager position, created in 2016.

Headed into budget season for fiscal year 2022, Brown said he would be examining the city’s organization chart to determine if any additional changes might be warranted. As future openings arise, Brown said the city wasn’t opposed to an external search if the situation demanded it, but he also said the city wanted to recognize the value of quality internal candidates.

“The hiring philosophy is to hire the best talent, to hire someone of high ethical values, someone who knows how to treat employees, knows how to treat the community, knows how to get the job done,” Brown said.

16A

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

Harbor Acres home sets mark DESIGNS CUSTOM CABINETRY

Property on Hillview Drive sells before reaching listing phase.

ERIC GARWOOD MANAGING EDITOR

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vate waterfront on Sarasota Bay. The home includes smart-home technology and contemporary spaces, including a dining room with LED-lit, temperature-controlled wine cellar; an open-air terrace with infinity-edge pool; and a 10-car garage.

Public records indicate the home was built in 1997 with a recent upgrade. It has five bedrooms, five full baths, three halfbaths and 6,728 feet of living space. It last sold in 2013 for $7 million.

Property records also indicate the seller of the property was former Co-CEO of RBC Capital Markets and RBC Investor and Treasury Services Mark Standish.

Michael Saunders is the leading brokerage in the Sarasota-Manatee area, with a market share of 24.12% for luxury properties, nearly 10 percentage points higher than its closest competitor.

The sale of 1452 Hillview Drive closed Wednesday for $13.25 million in a deal negotiated by Kim Ogilvie of Michael Saunders & Co.

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A home in Sarasota’s Harbor Acres is now the top-selling residential property of 2021 and the second-highest price ever fetched in Sarasota County for a home and a record for the neighborhood.

The sale of 1452 Hillview Drive closed Wednesday for $13.25 million in a deal negotiated by Kim Ogilvie of Michael Saunders & Co.’s downtown Main Street office. The home had not yet reached the listing phase. Stephanie Church of Coldwell Banker Realty’s Longboat Key office represented the buyers.

“There was a time when we had no demand for this price range, but now everything has changed,” Ogilvie said. “We are at the center of the bull’s eye for buyers coming from the Northeast, Midwest and California because we have what is familiar to them — namely, culture, restaurants and a stimulating and intelligent community of like-minded people.”

The sale trails only the November 2020 sale of Longboat Key’s Serenissima estate at 845 Longboat Club Road.

That $16.5 million sale also was handled by Michael Saunders & Co. The home features a double lot and more than 200 feet of pri-

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17A

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

2020 real estate sales top 2019 records Sales volume, prices rise as inventory falls in Sarasota and Manatee.

ERIC GARWOOD MANAGING EDITOR

Even with the unpredictability in the economy, real estate sales in Sarasota and Manatee counties came through 2020’s COVID-19 pandemic in record fashion.

Closed sales of single-family homes and condominiums in the two counties surpassed figures reported in 2019 and past years, up 10.4% and 15.1%, respectively,

according to data released last week by the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee.

Combined, the total of 25,031 closed sales across the two counties represented an 11.8% gain over 2019. Value of those sales reached $10.6 billion.

In Manatee County, condos fell to two months of supply, while single-family homes dropped to 1.5 months. Sarasota condos fell to a 2.6 months’ supply, while single-family homes decreased to 1.6 months’ supply. At this time last year, there were 6,858 properties on the market, compared to 3,725 now.

“When the pandemic hit early

last year, we weren’t really sure what to expect for real estate,” RASM President Alex Krumm said. “These record number of sales just show the strength and resiliency of our local housing market. Sales are up while the number of available homes is down. Importantly, this is not a ‘housing bubble.’ This is purely supply and demand, and as long as we have more buyers than sellers, we’ll continue to see this incredibly strong market in 2021.”

In November, the Serenissima estate on Longboat Key sold for $16.5 million just months after the sale of a $13 million property, also on Longboat Key.

File photo

2020 ended with an inventory lower than the end of 2019 in Sarasota and Manatee counties.

SARASOTA SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES 2020

2019

Closed sales 9,521

8,746

Median price

$290,000

$325,000

Average price $461,144

$396,590

Paid in cash 3,194

3,067

Median time to contract

30 days

51 days

Median time to closing

77 days

94 days

SARASOTA CONDOMINIUMS 2020

2019

Closed sales 4,635

4,635

Median price

$235,980

$255,000

Average price $385,676

$340,689

Paid in cash 2,364

2,349

Median time to contract

47 days

61 days

Median time to closing

93 days

106 days

H2OME

MANATEE SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES 2020

2019

Closed sales 7,663

6,825

Median price

$318,000

$345,000

Average price $450,488

$397,142

Paid in cash

1,926

1,783

Median time to contract

31 days

48 days

Median time to closing

77 days

94 days

Lakefront Homes in Sarasota It’s not every day you get to choose your waterfront home site, steps from Waterside Place, Sarasota's new and only lakefront town center. Coastal

MANATEE CONDOMINIUMS 2020

architecture and stunning lake views will meet a culture of performing arts,

2019

Closed sales 3,212

2,674

Median price $225,000

$200,400

Average price $273,326

$240,919

Paid in cash 1,484

1,401

Median time to contract

43 days

51 days

Median time to closing

90 days

95 days

retail and restaurants, all connected by water taxis and trails.

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Source: Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

Cats and dogs paws to party

I

t was a celebratory paw-ty for the cats and dogs of the Humane Society of Sarasota County on Feb. 9.

Humane Society staff thought there was no better way to celebrate the organization’s 69th birthday than to surprise its many pets up for adoption with tasty birthday treats. Dogs were given colorful “pupcake” snacks while cats were serve elegant kitty hors d’oeuvres.

Pepper leaped onto a counter to eat the snack.

— HARRY SAYER

Photos by Harry Sayer

Above: Karen isn’t quite sure what to do with her treat.

Left: Executive Director Anna Gonce feeds her foster cat, Avalanche.

Church goes to town on the snack.

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Above: Tessa is surprised to be given a snack.

Left: Cats were treated to kitty hors d’oeuvres.

Cassidy enjoys her pupcake.

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T

he Sarasota Native American Art & Music Festival brought crowds and culture to the Sarasota Fairgrounds last weekend.

The annual Native American celebration — rebranded this year with more of a focus on arts and music — had visitors checking out authentic jewelry and items, getting tasty food and listening to live music.

FEBRUARY 18, 2021

HIGH

SPORTS

5

SURVIVE AND ADVANCE Cardinal Mooney girls basketball is one win from the Final Four despite missing a star player.

RYAN KOHN SPORTS REPORTER

C

ardinal Mooney High girls basketball Head Coach Rico Antonio sat in his office and leaned back, rubbing his face with his hands and letting out a sigh.

He knew the margin between relief and agony was paper thin Tuesday night.

Cardinal Mooney defeated St. Petersburg Catholic 53-48 at home in a Class 3A regional semifinal game. The Cougars started hot but came dangerously close to letting the win slip through their claws.

The Cougars (18-8) were without star sophomore Jordyn Byrd, who Antonio said is nursing an ankle injury. Antonio said the absence of Byrd, who averages 15.2 points and 12 rebounds per game, affected the team offensively and defensively — though it

1

Sarasota High senior pitcher Conner Whittaker threw three innings, allowing one unearned run with five strikeouts, Feb. 9 in the Sailors’ 4-2 preseason win against Plant High.

2

Cardinal Mooney High pitcher Todd Velotta allowed one unearned run while striking out eight in six innings in the Cougars’ 2-1 win Feb. 16 against Hollins High. The game was part of the Packer Invitational at Largo High.

didn’t seem like it in the first half, when the Cougars ran up a 32-18 lead on the Barons (20-6).

Sophomore guard Olivia Davis was able to buoy the Cougars by scoring 16 first-half points, much of that on three-point attempts.

They needed every bit of the cushion because the second half was a different story. St. Petersburg Catholic chipped away at the lead through taking advantage of Mooney mistakes, including missed free throws.

The Cougars also got in foul trouble. They finished with 14 fouls, most of them in the second half. Antonio said the team let the game’s officiating dictate how it played, taking responsibility for that as a coach.

The Barons got to within two points, but Cardinal Mooney never relinquished the lead.

Even though Mooney hung onto SEE MOONEY, PAGE 23A

3

Riverview High baseball player Kyle Upman went 2-4 with a home run and two RBIs Feb. 16 in the Rams’ 7-4 home win against Braden River High.

4

Riverview High senior boys lacrosse player Blake Quigley had two goals and four assists Feb. 16 in the Rams’ 11-5 win against Lakewood Ranch High.

5

The Baltimore Orioles pitchers and catchers reported to their Sarasota facility on Feb. 17.

The first home game is 1 p.m.

Feb. 28 against Pittsburgh, with limited fan attendance.

Visit Orioles.com.

Photos by Ryan Kohn

Above: Sophomore guard Olivia Davis led Mooney with 24 points.

Right: Mooney Coach Rico Antonio says the team’s strategy was affected by not having Jordyn Byrd available. Antonio hopes Byrd will be back for the game against the Community School of Naples.

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PROSE AND KOHN

RYAN KOHN

Making notes of loose ends

F

ebruary is such a jampacked month of sports that it doesn’t feel right to leave anything out, if I can avoid it. That’s why I’m bringing back my notes-style column to talk about regional playoff games, spring sports, local alumnae and more.

DEEPER INTO THE PLAYOFFS

The boys basketball playoffs are nearing the midway point, with regional quarterfinal games being held Wednesday night. Thanks to silly things like deadlines — kidding, editors — I can’t tell you who has advanced beyond that round, but I can tell you that if Booker High (15-8) were to beat Astronaut High (23-3), the Tornadoes would play either Tampa Catholic (18-6) or Cocoa High (11-12) on Feb. 23.

Likewise, if Riverview High (206) were to beat Wharton High (21-5), they would play either Durant High (20-5) or Alonso High (22-5) on Feb. 23.

SUDDEN STOP

The Cardinal Mooney High girls soccer season came to an end Tuesday night in a 5-1 loss to Berkeley Prep in the Class 3A regional semifinals. It’s not the way the Cougars wanted to end

their season, but at 12-5-1, it was a strong season nonetheless.

As I wrote last week, the Cougars got a district championship (and bragging rights), which is a great reward no matter what else happened.

Courtesy photo

Former Sailors softball player Alexis Johns transferred from Florida International to South Florida this offseason.

GOOD START

The boys lacrosse season kicked off Tuesday night, and Riverview High started hot. The Rams earned an 11-5 win against Lakewood Ranch High, and they did it by spreading the offensive love: Freshman J.C. Flemming, junior Andrew DiRocco and seniors Blake Quigley, Tyler Horiuchi and Will Evans all had two goals apiece. Junior Kenneth Kaiser also added a goal, and Quigley had four assists. Last year, before the season was cut short because of COVID-19, the Rams went 5-4 and lost 13-9 to Lakewood Ranch, so this opening game could be a sign of improvement.

Other area teams with boys lacrosse programs (Cardinal Mooney High and Sarasota High) will get their seasons started Thursday, and the girls programs will soon follow suit.

BIG BATS

Not only are the spring high school sports here, but the col-

FORE!

Ryan Kohn

John Solomon and the Rams boys basketball team will play Wharton High on Thursday night.

legiate ones are, too. Former Riverview High softball player Devyn Flaherty is entrenched as a starting infielder at Florida State after hitting .333 with 17 RBIs as a freshman. Through four games, she’s hitting .333 again as a sophomore. Elsewhere, former Sarasota High

outfielder Alexis Johns transferred from Florida International to South Florida during the offseason. She led FIU with a .375 average last season. Johns went 0-2 in her South Florida debut, but I expect her to have another big season with the Bulls.

Thursday is the first day of the 2021 LECOM Suncoast Classic, the Korn Ferry Tour’s annual stop at Lakewood National Golf Club in East County. It’s not technically in Sarasota, but I know the entire SarasotaBradenton golf community is excited about it (and the PGA Tour’s freshly named World Golf Championships — Workday Championship at The Concession the next week).

YourObserver.com will bring you coverage of the event all four days.

Ryan Kohn is the sports writer for the Sarasota Observer. Contact him at RKohn@ YourObserver.com.

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CARDINAL MOONEY GIRLS BASKETBALL VS. COMMUNITY SCHOOL OF NAPLES n When: 7 p.m. Feb. 19 n Where: Community School of Naples, 13275 Livingston Road n At stake: A trip to the Class 3A Final Four in Lakeland n Cardinal Mooney player to watch: Olivia Davis, a sophomore guard who scored 24 points against St. Petersburg Catholic n CSN player to watch: Kiara Cabrera, a sophomore guard who leads the team with 13.6 points per game

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definite. If Byrd can play, she has the potential to dominate. Byrd is 6-foot-4; the tallest CSN player is 5-foot-10.

Cardinal Mooney has one common opponent with CSN: The Out-of-Door Academy. Mooney played ODA twice and won both; CSN played ODA once and lost.

Mooney (14.2) has also played a more difficult schedule than CSN (2.3) in getting to this point, according to MaxPreps data.

Mooney is 10-5 on the road this season. Make it 11-5, and the Cougars will be traveling to Lakeland.

The state semifinals begin Feb. 24 at the RP Funding Center.

Elsewhere, another Sarasotaarea team did not fare as well.

Riverview High lost 52-26 to Plant High in the Class 7A regional semifinals Tuesday, ending the Rams’ season. They finished with a 20-2 record.

With all but three players scheduled to return next season, the Rams are gearing up for bigger things in the future.

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the win, Byrd’s absence was felt.

“We do a lot of things through her,” Antonio said. “She does a lot of things defensively. We like to put pressure on the ball, and if they get by us, she’s there to deter that. Chances are it’s one-anddone for them when she’s in the game.”

Despite the team’s second-half missteps, Antonio said he was proud of his team. He can live with physical mistakes — they mean his team is playing hard — but he won’t tolerate mental ones.

There were not many of those, which he called a positive sign.

The Cougars are young; there are no seniors on the roster. The team is still learning how to close out playoff games, and even though there were tense moments in this one, they did get the win. A less resilient team might have given up once momentum swung, but Cardinal Mooney never did.

Davis finished with 27 points to lead the team. Jasmine Scurry added 13 points, the only other Cougar in double-digits. Antonio said he was particularly proud of Madison Smithers. She had four points, but she contributed in other ways, too.

“She just dives on the floor,” Antonio said. “She gives everything she has when she’s on the floor. She’s our engine. I don’t know if anyone plays harder than we do.”

The Cougars will travel to the Community School of Naples (154) on Friday to play for a spot in the state semifinals. Antonio said he is hoping to have Byrd back for that game, though nothing is

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FROM PAGE 21A

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

“Born To Be Wild”

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

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Classifieds 12B Games 11B Real Estate 7B Weather 11B

FEBRUARY 18, 2021

YOUR NEIGHBORS PLAYING WITH FIRE S HARRY SAYER | STAFF WRITER

arasota resident Abbigale Young has a day job selling life insurance.

Each day she wakes up, calls clients from the com-

fort of her home and pitches them on coverage. It’s steady work, but Young admits it can be a tad on the quiet side.

Photos by Harry Sayer

Abbigale Young performs with friends and at local venues and weddings.

Abbigale Young and Marko Perkins are a pair of dedicated fire performers in Sarasota.

Marko Perkins has been fire-performing for years.

Her nights lately have been different, though. Every person needs excitement, and Young has found it in fire. Plenty of people dance, but not as many have learned to dance and do tricks surrounded by flames. Each week, the 27-year-old picks up her hula hoop, drives to meet friends, sets her instrument aflame and dances in the dark.

Young is one of many fire spinners in Sarasota County, part of a small but enduring group that looks to dazzle and delight through fire performances. She says fire-performing is a hobby, a job and an obsession all at the same time.

It’s been eight years since Young started performing, and she’s changed a lot since those days. Young said she was shy and lacking confidence. She feels getting into hula-hoop dancing, and then fire-performing, is what’s made her the person she is today.

“I saw a girl [hula-hooping] on the beach seven years ago, and she was so beautiful and looked so confident, and I needed a confidence boost also,” Young said. “I decided to just pick up something new and try it.”

She dove into hula-hooping and spent a couple years honing her skills before feeling she was ready to add fire to the mix.

Young said she still remembers the fear she felt the first time she started dancing with the flames and the roaring sound they made around her — she said it felt like being inside a burning tornado.

“You cannot stop moving,” Young said. “You can’t stall. It’s not like, ‘Oh, I need to sit here and figure out this trick.’ Even if it’s doing the same repetitive stuff until you can work other things in your routine, just keep freaking moving.”

Marko Perkins, a 26-year-old fellow fire performer and Young’s roommate, discovered the craft at a college party. He remembers feeling invigorated by the flames and envious of the performer who could dance with them.

He said he’s always admired fire because it’s one of the most pure elements in the world. He picked up a dragon staff prop instrument and learned to dance with fire in his own way.

“When I’m really feeling it, nothing else matters,” Perkins said. “It’s me, the staff and the music. … The fire creates a trail around me.”

Perkins practices with Young at their home and also organizes get-togethers for fire performers around Sarasota.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2B

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

FROM PAGE 1B

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Some performers are flowy, and some are more technical. Perkins said he has a tribal, almost martial arts-type flow while Young prefers dangerous stunts — technical moves that bring the fire closer to her face that she hopes will make the crowd gasp.

She’s been practicing a move recently where she balances the burning hula hoop on her nose.

She started with the hoop but has since learned to perform with other props including the dragon staff and fans. The only way to get better, in her eyes, is constantly practicing.

Safety is key, and Perkins and Young take it seriously. They always have another performer nearby holding a fire blanket to throw over them in case one of them catches fire during a performance, and they light their props with vapor-based white gas and kerosene that won’t adhere to the skin.

But burns are inevitable. Playing with fire has led to Young and Perkins getting burned many a time, and they have the marks on their bodies to prove it. Young swears it’s not as painful as people imagine — usually more like getting a sunburn — and that the only way to play in this sport is to push through the fear or pain of fire.

Fire-spinning started as a hobby but has become something of a second job for Young. Over the years, she has been paid to travel across the state and perform at weddings, special events and several festivals, something that thrills her to no end. She hopes she’ll be able to perform outside of the state at new festivals when

Harry Sayer

Abbigale Young performs with friends and at local venues and weddings.

the pandemic is through.

The fire-spinning hobby has only grown since she and Perkins started. Young said what once was a more disparate collection of fire spinners has become a greater community of 50 to 100 performers across Florida in the past handful of years. With that boom has come innovation, with new tricks and techniques being invented constantly.

“We’re all individual people, we just share a common hobby,” Young said. “We’re go-getters.

We’re constantly building and learning and wanting to push forward on our sport.”

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

3B

T H E C I R C U S A R TS CO N S E RVATO RY

YOUR CALENDAR

DON’T MISS FEB. 19

THUNDER

BY THE BAY KICKOFF PARTY 6-10 p.m. at the Sarasota Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd. The 23rd annual Thunder by the Bay music and motorcycle festival kicks off with a party.

Tickets $75. Call 706-3825 for information.

Prevail P R E S E N TS

A CO N T E M P O R A RY C I R C U S B E N E F I T S H OW

File photo

This year’s Thunder by the Bay kickoff party will be held in an outdoor tent.

‘EMBRACING OUR DIFFERENCES’ Through April 1 at Bayfront Park, 5 Bayfront Drive. The outdoor art exhibit returns to Bayfront Park, featuring billboard-sized works.

Free. For information, call 4045710.

‘MONET GARDEN GOES POP!’ From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. through June 27 at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St. Roy Lichtenstein’s pop art style mixed with Claude Monet’s in Selby Garden’s latest Jean and Alfred Goldstein exhibition series. The new exhibit brings Lichtenstein’s depictions of Monet’s gardens

into a 3D space. Tickets $25 for Selby members, $30 for nonmembers. For information, call 366-5731.

FEB. 20

10TH ANNUAL SUPERHERO 5K & 10K 7:30-11:30 a.m. at Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle. The Bridge A Life nonprofit’s 10th annual race will return to Nathan Benderson Park and will have runners donning their best hero costumes.

There will be a 10K, a 5K and a 1-mile fun run for kids. Tickets start at $15. For information, visit BridgeALife.com/events.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

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DIVORCE

without ATTORNEYS

Selby hosts preview for donors

After the emotional decision to divorce is made, the focus shifts to logistical and financial arrangements. In many cases, these can be decided without expensive and adversarial litigation.

Mediation allows a couple to “self-determine” the outcome, ensuring it is fair and reasonable; it protects your assets and relationships, providing a brighter future for all parties.

S

elby donors got an early look at the “Roy Lichtenstein: Monet’s Garden Goes Pop!” exhibit Feb. 10. Masked supporters took a walk through the new pop art exhibition — which looks at Claude Monet’s garden and nature paintings through the lens of Roy Lichtenstein’s pop art style — at Selby’s downtown campus. Guests eventually were able to pick up light bites and snacks and sit at spaced-apart tables to eat.

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SARASOTA OBSERVER

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Left: BJ Creighton, Fritz Maxwell, Jan Swan, COO Wendy Deming and Skip Swan Below: Rob Rominiecki and Selby President and CEO Jennifer Rominiecki

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

5B

A series of free online concerts and discussions with preeminent classical musicians.

Pianists Garrick Ohlsson & Kirill Gerstein Thursday, Feb 25 | 7 pm

Violinist Samantha Bennett & Percussionist George Nickson Thursday, March 11 | 7 pm

Academy of St Martin in the Fields Thursday, March 25 | 7 pm

Register now!

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Samantha Bennett & George Nickson

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OUTDOORS ON THE TERRACE STAGE

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February 16 - 27

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

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SARASOTA 3239 Beneva Road 201 Donna Portale 716-308-8189 A4490617 $172,900

SIESTA KEY 539 Norsota Way Lenore Treiman 941-356-9642 A4485407 $7,500,000

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

SARASOTA The Ritz-Carlton Tower Residences, Penthouse 1803 Joan Dickinson & Beth Afflebach 941-914-0496 A4476458 $5,975,000

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM

348864-1

SARASOTA 1435 Westway Drive Barbara May 941-312-1302 A4489845 $7,700,000

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

7B

18th floor unit at the Residences sells for $3.25 million

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

FEB. 1-5

ADAM HUGHES

Other top sales by area

RESEARCH EDITOR

A

condominium in The Residences tops all transactions in this week’s real estate.

Debra Steigerwaldt Waller, trustee, of Kenosha, Wis., sold the Unit 1803 condominium at 1111 Ritz Carlton Drive to Ciel Sarasota LLC for $3.25 million. Built in 2001, it has three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths and 4,276 square feet of living area. It sold for $3.32 million in 2003.

SARASOTA

CHEROKEE PARK Lawrence and Heather Byrd sold their two properties at 1562 South Drive to Daniel and Courtney Snyder, of Sarasota, for $2.3 million. The first property was built in 1941; it has three bedrooms, five baths, a pool and 5,064 square feet of living area.

The second property was built in 1968; it has one bedroom, one bath and 880 square feet of living area. They sold for $2 million in 2008.

OYSTER BAY ESTATES W. Michael Bryant, trustee, of Alpharetta, Ga., sold the home at 1329 N. Lake Shore Drive to Joern and Birgit Sroka, of Sarasota, for $2.3 million. Built in 1962, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 3,160 square feet of living area. It sold for $390,000 in 1988.

David Serge Graziosi and Susan Frances Gentile sold their home at 1519 N. Lake Shore Drive to

SIESTA KEY

Courtesy photo

RJJM LLC for $835,000. Built in 1955, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,826 square feet of living area. It sold for $450,000 in 2012.

Built in 2001, unit 1803 of The Residences has three bedrooms, three-anda-half baths and 4,276 square feet of living area.

BAY POINT PARK Elizabeth Lambert, trustee, of Arthur Lambert sold the home at 1595 Bay Point Drive to Daniel and Diane Hagen, of Sarasota, for $2.25 million. Built in 1937, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,757 square feet of living area. It sold for $389,000 in 1992.

BUNGALOW HILL Ann Beringer Hollins, trustee, of Sarasota, sold the home at 1115 Citrus Ave. to John Michael Falk and Frances Paquelet Falk, of Sarasota, for $1.5 million. Built in 1991, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,897 square feet of living area. It sold for $750,000 in 2002.

Revised Siesta Jerome Patrick Parnell III, of Sarasota, sold his home at 3505 White Lane to Robert and Roxanne Hettinger, of Sykesville, Md., for $2.41 million.

Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, three-andtwo-half baths, a pool and 4,012 square feet of living area. It sold for $2.17 million in 2019.

PALMER RANCH

Stoneybrook at Palmer Ranch James and Linda Daly, of Sarasota, sold their home at 9496 Hawksmoor Lane to Alistair Cole and Kara Cole, trustees, of Sarasota, for $760,000. Built in 1994, it has six bedrooms, five baths, a pool and 4,540 square feet of living area. It sold for $258,000 in 2010.

OSPREY

Casey Key Regina McCarthy, trustee, of Sleepy Hollow, Ill., sold the home at 1027 N. Casey Key Road to Philip and Anda Foxwell, of Marietta, Ga., for $2.2 million. Built in 1991, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,990 square feet of living area.

NOKOMIS

Calusa Lakes Philip Morrissey and Laverne Foran, of Ontario, sold their home at 1985 White Feather Lane to Thomas Linus Grant and Patricia Grant, of Nokomis, for $420,000.

Built in 1996, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,289 square feet of living area. It sold for $345,000 in 2014.

In with the new

ALINARI David John Amy, Grant Frederick Amy and Jennifer Lyn Amy, trustees, of Brookly, N.Y., sold the Unit 1801 condominium at 800 N. Tamiamin Trail to Alexander and Nina Multak, of Gainesville, for $1.46 million. Built in 2007, it

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

SEE REAL ESTATE, PAGE 10B

MOVE-IN READY

Bayfront Sarasota

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota | 941.702.2300 From the $3,700,000s TheResidencesSarasota.com

SALES GALLERY OPEN

Longboat Key

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

These are the largest city of Sarasota and Sarasota County building permits issued for the week of Feb. 1-5 in order of dollar amounts.

C I T Y O F SA RAS O TA Address

Permit

Applicant

310 S. Osprey Ave.

Addition

Paul Van Deventer

$250,000

Amount

2610 Cardinal Place

Pool Remodel

Joseph Eichman

$140,000

411 S. Shore Drive

Pool/Spa/Deck

Stephen Fernandez

1110 Osprey Ave.

Renovations

Erjona Routhier

$75,000

888 Blvd. of the Arts #306

Alterations

Linwood Cotman

$65,000

411 S. Shore Drive

Fence

Stephen Fernandez

$50,000

11 Sunset Drive #101

Alterations

Tracey McLeod

$46,000

2326 Gull lane

Addition

Clayton Owens

$45,000

2460 Hillview St.

Pool

Amber Taylor

$35,000

3225 Osprey Ave.

Alterations

Adam Hurley

$30,000

$107,775

SA R A S O TA CO U N T Y Address

Permit Applicant Amount

5307 Avenida Del Mare

Alterations

Thomas Modly

$144,000

441 Poincianna Drive

Remodel

Donald Popovitch

$120,000

3803 Spyglass Hill Road

Renovations

Edward Stern

1620 Memory Lane

Seawall

James Sheldon

1720 Pocatello St.

Pool/Deck

F. Scott Muldoon

$57,476

2837 Forest Lane

Alterations

Barbara Broadhead

$53,793

9409 Forest Hills Circle

Re-roof

Joseph Blaauboer

$48,000

8756 Pebble Creek Lane

Re-roof

William South

$48,000

NEW MODEL OPEN

South Sarasota

Sandhill Lake | 941.234.0432 From the high $500,000s SandhillLakeSarasota.com

WATERFRONT HOMES & HOMESITES

MOVE-IN READY

Downtown Sarasota

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

Bradenton Riverfront

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

NOW SELLING NEW PHASE

Northwest Bradenton

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

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

$80,000

Source: Sarasota County, city of Sarasota

348888-1

$67,988

WWW.MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM/NEW-HOMES | 844.591.4333 | SARASOTA, FLORIDA Prices as of February 2021.

Licensed Real Estate Broker

SARASOTA OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

Digital Program 5

BALANCHINE & GRAZIANO 26 Feb - 2 Mar 2021

POP! GOES THE

TICKETS $35 941.359.0099 | WWW.SARASOTABALLET.ORG 349351-1

GARDEN

DOWNTOWN SARASOTA, FLORIDA LUXURY

BOUTIQUE RESIDENCES WITH ONLY 3 + 4 HOMES PER FLOOR Tucked amongst the most coveted galleries, restaurants, shops, theaters and the marina, The DeMarcay offers a respite from the bustling downtown while remaining the most walkable condominiums in Sarasota.

SALES@THEDEMARCAY.COM

|

941.404.8858

|

SALES CENTER AT 32 S PALM AVE

|

THEDEMARCAY.COM

©2021 Wolf Development Strategies and Wolf Residential. All Rights Reserved. Wolf Residential and Coldwell Banker operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. fully supports the principles of the fair housing act and the equal opportunity act. Oral representations cannot be relied upon as correctly stating representations of the developer.

For correct representations, make reference to the documents required by section 718.503, Florida Statues, to be furnished by a developer to a buyer or lessee 350513-1

8B

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

‘Roy Lichtenstein: Monet’s Garden Goes Pop!’ blends pop art with classic garden displays.

Photos by Harry Sayer

Above and left: The koi pond has Monet’s water lilies along with Lichtenstein’s onomatopoeia.

Below left: The conservatory has a mural of Lichtenstein’s “Sunrise” painting.

IF YOU GO ‘ROY LICHTENSTEIN: MONET’S GARDEN GOES POP!’ EXHIBITION When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. through June 27 Where: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St. Tickets: From $15 Info: Call 366-5731, or visit Selby.org.

OUR BUYERS ARE

HARRY SAYER STAFF WRITER

M

arie Selby Botanical Gardens CEO Jennifer Rominiecki has overseen the Jean & Alfred Goldstein Exhibit series for six years now, and she said she is proud of the work she and her staff have put on display.

The series spotlights esteemed artists and displays their work in the context of the greenery of Selby’s botanical garden. And

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throughout those six years, she and Curator-at-Large Carol Ockman have heard requests repeatedly for one artist in particular: French impressionist painter Claude Monet.

It’s a natural fit at first glance.

Monet did revered, vibrant work of his flower garden and water garden in Giverny, France, in the 19th and 20th centuries, and many have felt it would make sense to highlight such material at Selby’s downtown campus.

But Rominiecki felt it was still too obvious a selection.

“I’ve heard from a number of members and supporters that we do Monet’s garden in Giverny,” she said. “But the thing is, [Monet] has been done already in a number of ways. … What we’ve been doing is really trying to feature artists that you don’t necessarily associate with nature and revealing a surprising connection.”

Serendipity came a few years ago when Rominiecki was looking up various artists’ works and discovered a series of paintings done by seminal pop artist Roy Lichtenstein — known for his striking colors, thick lines, Benday dots and comic strip and vintage advertisement inspirations.

His work added a different spin to Monet’s water lilies and haystacks.

So, Rominiecki thought, what if the gardens filtered the wellknown works of Monet through the bold, pop-art style of Lichtenstein, then further interpreted the art into Selby’s tangible, 3D space?

Selby Gardens recently opened its “Roy Lichtenstein: Monet’s Garden Goes Pop!” exhibition, which will run through June 27.

The exhibition has a series of

OUR SELLERS ARE

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

9B

installations, newly constructed creations and museum pieces that staff hope will give a full view of the differing styles of both artists.

Familiar components of Monet’s life and body of work can now be seen across the Selby campus, several of which are modeled with strong black outlines and other visual touches for more of a popart feel.

Staff have built red- and yellow-dotted haystack models.

The koi pond now contains Monet’s water lilies along with some Lichenstein-inspired onomatopoeia. The conservatory is now full of Lichtenstein constructs, Benday dots, elaborate murals, weeping willow structures and tropical flowers. A Japanese-style bridge spans a small pond created

by Selby staff and has been painted through Lichtenstein’s lens.

The display at the Museum of Botany and the Arts has comprehensive information on Roy Lichtenstein before leading further in with photos from Monet’s gardens and loaned paintings of Lichtenstein’s interpretations.

Collecting all of that artwork took some doing.

Rominiecki borrowed a Lichtenstein painting of Monet’s haystacks from Selby supporter Flora Major and eventually was able to display borrowed paintings of the water lilies from the Pérez Museum of Art in Miami.

Other items were found at the Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach.

“I love seeing people go up to [the artwork], sit down at the bench and become part of the artwork,” Rominiecki said. “We want people to be part of the installation and to really immerse themselves.”

MORE BUYERS ARE

BUYING

SELLING

COMING

PENDING JANUARY | $1.325M

PENDING FEBRUARY | $1.195M

548 BEACH RD | $1.695M

SOLD JANUARY | $975K LP

SOLD FEBRUARY | $1.995M LP

7345 PINE NEEDLE RD | $1.22M

SOLD DECEMBER | $1.399K LP

SOLD FEBRUARY | $1.25M LP

NEW LISTING | 9150 BLIND PASS RD, #701 | $695K

YOUR HOME HAS NEVER BEEN WORTH MORE. I DON’T JUST SELL THE SIESTA KEY LIFESTYLE, I LIVE IT! • Siesta Key’s Top Selling REALTOR® Since 2005 • Best in client satisfaction real estate agent 15 years in a row by Sarasota Magazine

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.

351106-1

941.928.3424 | judie.berger@premiersir.com | www.homesofsarasota.com |

10B

SARASOTA OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

Real estate FROM PAGE 7B

has two bedrooms, three-and-ahalf baths and 3,219 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.4 million in 2018.

WELCOMES

THE MARK Shawn Philip Sims and Mary Shannon Sims sold their Unit 701 condominium at 111 S. Pineapple Ave. to Frank Tallman and Helene Lotman, of Sarasota, for $1.38 million. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, three-and-ahalf baths and 2,112 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.31 million in 2019.

Nataly Bruk, MD Internal Medicine

Dr. Nataly Bruk brings to Intercoastal Medical Group at the Hyde Park East office a wealth of knowledge and experience in Internal Medicine.

H.A. NICOLS Edward and Tyla Bermudez, of Sarasota, sold their home at 1701 Hillview St. to Lido Acquisitions LLC for $1.33 million. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,545 square feet of living area. It sold for $601,600 in 2001.

Undergraduate: Temple University, Philadelphia, PA Graduate: Master of Business Administration, Keller University Graduate School of Management, Downers Grove, IL Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine, Dominica, West Indies Residency: Internal Medicine, St. John’s Episcopal Hospital, Far Rockaway, NY Certification: Board Eligible, American Board of Internal Medicine

CONDOMINIUM ON THE BAY Lars Lewander, of Sarasota, sold the Unit 11 condominium at 922 Boulevard of the Arts to Craig and Ann Weatherley, trustees, of South Dartmouth, Mass., for $1.3 million. Built in 1982, it has two bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 1,904 square feet of living area. It sold for $900,000 in 2004.

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT, PLEASE CALL

941-366-2460 Hyde Park East Office www.intercoastalmedical.com Medicare and most insurances accepted

351199-1

2881 Hyde Park Street, Sarasota, Florida 34239

A Patient Focused, Multi-Specialty Group l National Expertise l Multiple Locations

THE RESIDENCES Sieglinde Weissgerber, trustee, of Hartland, Wis., sold the Unit 1408 condominium at 1111 Ritz Carlton Drive to Dan and

Christine Kittinger, of Sarasota, for $1.29 million. Built in 2001, it has two bedrooms, two-and-ahalf baths and 2,035 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.05 million in 2001.

VUE Charles Zaledonis, trustee, and Patricia Zaledonis, of Sea Girt, N.J., sold the Unit 807 condominium at 1155 N. Gulfstream Ave. to Joseph and Caroline Columbo, of Sarasota, for $1.28 million. Built in 2017, it has two bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 1,580 square feet of living area. It sold for $938,200 in 2017.

WASHINGTON PARK Arun Sardana, trustee, of Sarasota, sold the home at 543 Columbia Court to Beverly Long, of St. Petersburg, for $1.25 million. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,335 square feet of living area. It sold for $305,000 in 2016.

THE CLOISTERS AT THE LANDINGS John Alogna and Carol Beth Cotner, trustees, of Sarasota, sold the home at 1413 Cedar Bay Lane to Antony Borthwick, of Sarasota, for $1.04 million. Built in 1998, it has four bedrooms, twoand-two-half baths, a pool and 3,269 square feet of living area.

It sold for $1 million in 2017.

ONLINE See more transactions at YourObserver.com

IT’S YOUR MOVE If you’d rather be at the gym than raking leaves, Cresswind Lakewood Ranch makes it easy to find your next adventure, new home and fun. This is active adult living designed for the way you want to live.

Visit in person, online or call, and we’ll help you get started.

NEW HOMES FOR ACTIVE ADULTS

10 Decorated Models Open Daily Priced from the $300s

CresswindLakewoodRanch.com 349466-1

888-871-0489 5063 Simons Court | Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211

Realtors Warmly Welcomed. Pricing, availability, specifications and amenities are subject to change without notice. CGC1509406

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

FORECAST

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

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SUNRISE / SUNSET

THURSDAY, FEB. 18

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, Feb. 18

7:04a 6:24p

Friday, Feb. 19

7:03a

6:25p

7:02a

6:25p

7:01a

6:26p

Don’tHigh: worry, 81 Saturday, Feb. 20 I T ’ S S M A RLow: T S T71 R A N D. Chance Sunday, Feb. 21 Only SmartStrand® can handle the 747 lbs of ice cream a family will eat in a carpet’s lifetime. of rain: 15% Monday, Feb. 22 Other carpets use stain protection that has to be reapplied. But only SmartStrand’s stain resistance is built right into

7:00a

6:27p

Tuesday, Feb. 23

6:59a

6:27p

Wednesday, Feb. 24

6:58a

6:28p

the fibers. So it never wears or washes out. Even after multiple cleanings. Even better, It’s on sale now!

To learn more about what makes SmartStrand® with DuPont™ Sorona® #1 in customer satisfaction, visit MohawkFlooring.com/SmartStrand.

FRIDAY, FEB. 19

High: 74 Low: 51 Chance of rain: 69%

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, FEB. 20

March 5 March 13 March 21 March 28 Last New First Full

High: 67 Low: 58 Chance of rain: 5%

RAINFALL

SUNDAY, FEB. 21 High: 75 Low: 58 Chance of rain: 5%

John Sims captured these black bellied whistling ducks in Payne Park.

11B

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

Monday, Feb. 8

0.29

Tuesday, Feb. 9

0

Wednesday, Feb. 10

0

Thursday, Feb. 11

0

Friday, Feb. 12

0

Saturday, Feb. 13

0 0.65

Sunday, Feb. 14

Submit your photos at YourObserver.com/Weather. All submissions will be entered for the 2020-21 Weather and Nature photo contest. In February 2021, you will vote for your favorite photo, and the submission with the most votes will win a $500 gift card.

YEAR TO DATE:

MONTH TO DATE:

2021 2.22 in.

2021

2020 2.44 in.

2020 1.47 in.

1.52 in.

A REFLECTION OF NATURE’S BEAUTY 349206-1

941.355.8437 | Bradenton

CROSSWORD

941.748.4679 | Venice

941.493.7441 | www.manasotaonline.com

32 Operating again (letter 10) 35 Places to hear “Stat!”

(Abbr.)

36 Dolphins Hall of Famer Larry 38 Bad-mouths 39 Mimicking 40 Letter before sigma 42 Put down roots 45 Have a frank discussion (letter 3) 50 Getting little rain 53 One catching slippery fish 54 Strong point 55 Suffix with “Tao” 57 Long of “Boyz n the Hood”

59 “Auld Lang ___” 60 Wonder Woman’s “real” first name 61 Kate Middleton’s sister 64 Last non-A.D. year 66 To the rear, to a rear admiral 67 Funny money maker (letter 9) 70 Strings for Kamakawiwo’ole, briefly 73 Injures 74 They help around the House 75 Viscounts’ superiors 77 Apple assistant 81 Tie-dyed top

112 Singer Grande, familiarly 113 Ring out 114 Dream up 116 Piles 118 Album with “I Am a Rock” ... and a hint to the Down, but not Across, pronunciations of the indicated letters (letter 15) 121 “The king,” in Spain 122 Suzhou Museum architect 123 Successful hitchhiker 124 Mushers’ vehicles 125 Thai or Lao 126 Maine, e.g., to Macron 127 Giga- times 1,000

KITCHEN | CABINETRY OUTDOOR PAVERS

49 “Oh, my!”

51 Concave navel 52 Slimming plans 56 Clingy wrap brand 58 Prez born in a log cabin 61 Prepare, like baby food 62 Processor maker 63 Six for a TD 64 Hefty ref.

65 Belief systems 68 Inside ___ 69 Buddy’s buddy, perhaps 70 Pakistani language 71 Heidi of “America’s Got Talent” 72 “NFL Matchup” channel 76 Be sick DOWN 77 Religious offense 1 “On Language” writer 78 Olympic skater Midori 2 Lana or Tina 79 One of 32 on a checker3 Battery terminals board 4 Stared at the stars, say 80 “You got me!”

5 Puny puppy 82 Rockies animal 6 Kennel noises 85 Delhi garment 7 Nat ___ Wild 87 “___ She Sweet” (Beatles 8 See 24-Down song) 9 Ravi of 5-Across 89 Faithful “Odyssey” 10 Jeans measure 11 Lou Gehrig’s disease, briefly character 90 Former spouses 12 Beach city near L.A. 91 Org. concerned with can13 Full assembly nabis 14 Acronym for Obama’s 92 Loops in on an email signature health law 94 Actress Reid 15 Range tops?

96 Entered gradually 16 In an obvious way 99 Iran, in the past 17 Oven gloves 100 “Hit the ceiling” and “hit 18 Croats and Poles the sack” 20 Change for a 20 24 With 8-Down, tangy French 102 Greek H’s 103 Recoil in fear 82 Word before “product” or poultry dish 104 Teammate of Dasher “quote” 29 Egyptian vipers 105 Noted women’s rights 83 Embellished, informally 32 Knock on the head measure, informally 84 Agenda units 33 Terrible smell 106 Campfire remnants 86 Airline to Haifa 34 “Ah, gotcha” 107 Flashlight battery, 88 It always has a view 36 PC’s “brain” perhaps (letter 10) 37 Dame’s counterpart 108 Sleep disorder 93 Signals nonverbally 39 Fasten on 109 One may be storewide 95 “I Like ___” 41 Cuban sandwich meat 110 Representative 97 Corporate VIPs 43 Goodman known for his 114 “Little” star Rae 98 Secure, as with a seat belt moves 115 Spray in a sauna 101 Virgil protagonist 44 “... ___ he drove out of 117 The “S” in CBS, originally 103 Windy City summer hrs. sight” (Abbr.)

106 Coffee and liquor, to 45 Cry of success 119 News agcy. some (letter 2) 46 “Yeah, right!”

120 Excess spending 109 Jazz legend Vaughan 47 Aspiring D.A.’s hurdle 111 Filmy buildup 48 Barbie’s partner

NOW YOU HEAR ME, NOW YOU DON’T by Ed Sessa; Edited by David Steinberg

©2021 Universal Uclick

ACROSS 1 Male forest ranger?

5 Indian music 9 Crocodile’s habitat 14 Throat-clearing sounds 19 Nude 21 Kosher, to a Muslim 22 Like some liberties 23 Where cold cases are opened? (see letter 13 in this answer) 25 Gut concern 26 Hits the tab key 27 Dashes 28 Two peas ___ pod 30 Many a flat-screen set 31 Marsh grasses

*DuPont™ Sorona® contains 37% renewably sourced ingredients by weight. The DuPont Oval logo, DuPont,™ Renewably sourced™ and Sorona® are registered trademarks or trademarks of DuPont or its affiliates and are licensed to Mohawk.

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.

“FXPEL EY DMS YZRS YLESHLS HZD XLLSNDSI AU YLESHDEYDY, ASLXOYS DMSU LXH’D OHISVYDXHI ED.”

– MXVVU MZOIEHE

“V DUVRG VA LMZ NMZTX UHSJ KZD UMZXVRV NVDU H GRVAJ, FTMMX NMZTXR’D KMPJ MZD, YB NMZTX.”

– KBVOO HRIJT

Puzzle Two Clue: Y equals P

Sarasota

SAVE ON EVERY SPECIES, COLOR AND STYLE!

Puzzle One Clue F equals M

HARDWOOD

© 2021 NEA, Inc.

SUDOKU

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

©2021 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

02-18-21

Made for where you live. Here!

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888 DEADLINES: Classifieds - Tuesday at Noon

Service Directory - Friday at 3PM • PAYMENT: Cash, Check or Credit Card The Sarasota and Siesta Key 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 Sarasota and Siesta Key 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.

Autos for Sale REDUCED PRICE! MERCEDES BENZ 1999 For Sale- S500 (stretch) M: 136K; Asking: $3,800 OBO. Great Condition.

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

Black Car w/ light grey interior.

Located on Lido Key Cell 315.727.4933. Theresa

Autos Wanted

BASS GUITAR Riverhead by Headway w/ hard case, channel locks, and leather strap: $200. 941-321-0843.

BRIDAL JEWELRY $50 Bridal Head piece $150 941-822-4830.

SELL YOUR STUFF HERE! CELLO BOW for sale.

Amazing condition $179.

(941) 358-8511.

15% DISCOUNT FOR 4-WEEK RUN

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

FABRIC SECTIONAL sofa $500. Dining table with 6 chairs $400. 937-658-2331.

HELP WANTED: Servers and bartenders for Chef Rolf's New Florida Kitchen.

Call: 941-806-6820.

Garage/ Moving/ Estate Sales PINEHURST 34243 Community garage sale Saturday Feb 20th 9am-2pm Rain or shine N. Lockwood Ridge turn on to Oak Run Drive to Pinehurst Community.

LOCAL COLLECTOR pays cash for flags, guns, medals, helmets, war souvenirs, military items ours/theirs.

941-323-9417.

SELL IT FAST! Place Your Ad Online YourObserver.com/RedPages

SELL STUFF HERE! YourObserver.com/RedPages

Autos for Sale 2004 CHEVROLET Tahoe One owner high milage, runs well. $3,500. (508) 801-1940.

NORTH SIESTA Key Penthouse for Rent: Whispering Sands, 12th floor corner unit 2BD/2BA 55+ community. 270ft of incredible gulf and beach views from your 50ft wrap-around lanai. Private beach included.

2 month minimum, longer term prefered.

Price based on rental term.

Call: 941-373-5432.

Condos/Apts. for Sale LOCATION LOCATIONCONDO SALE: Beautiful waterview walk to beach. 2BD/2BA has it all!

State of the art kitchen.

A must see! $415,000.

Make an offer!

941-400-4808.

Call to see.

Help Wanted

Furnishings

DUNLOP GOLF CLUB/SPALDING BAG Full set includes pro bag TearDrop putter. $200. (941) 923-3317.

SOFA: DOWNSIZING super plush 6 1/2 ft. Like new, will send picture. Quick sell: $165.

941-358-5313.

FAMILY SECURITY DRIVER 941-735-4732.

Ask for Eddie.

Many years experience with rock stars, wild teens, children, elderly, and foreign families.

Feel safe, Be safe 24/7 Licensed and Legal.

Condos/Apts. for Rent

OSPREY SPACIOUS light and bright 2BD/2BA w/ garage, large screened lanai, step in shower, pool and tennis, in a no smoking building. Requires application. $1675/mo.

Includes cable and water.

941-966-9763.

Autos Service

PLACE YOUR AD: Call: 941-955-4888 Fax: 941-362-4808 Email: redpages@ yourobserver.com Online: yourobserver. com/redpages

Merchandise Wanted

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

Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

Color background: $ 5 per week Ad border: as low as $3 per week

CRYSTAL WINE glasses.

Gorham "King Edward" pattern, 10. 6" tall. Unused. $85. (941) 966-6816.

FOR SALE: Bose SoundDock Portable digital music system for Ipod/Iphone. Charger, battery, remote. Like new. $100. (941)-504-0165.

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

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auto

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

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LAUREL OAK C.C. Openings in F&B, Landscape, & Golf Course Maint.

Competitive wages 941-378-3608. or email: info@laureloak.com

REAL LOCAL STUFF HERE!

YourObserver.com/RedPages NORTH SIESTA Key Penthouse for Sale: Whispering Sands, 12th floor corner unit 2BD/2BA 55+ community.

270ft of incredible gulf and beach views from your 50ft wrap-around lanai. Private beach included. $1.375 million.

941-373-5432.

This week’s Crossword answers

Advertise your business or service in the Observer

RED PAGES CALL TODAY 941-955-4888

Homes for Rent 3BR/3BA SOUTHSIDE Village- Hillview A luxury home located in a renowned community. This home has been meticulously cared for and maintained. The location to schools and amenities is all within walking distance. Large 3 bedroom with multiple closets, large family space, the kitchen and living area are filled with natural light.

Bathrooms and kitchen with modern upgrades. Fabulous energy and flow. Large pool and spa, gated yard, Private setting with lush gardens.

Annual rental required. $5,800.

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CLEAN OUT YOUR GARAGE! CALL 941-955-4888

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers

Puzzle One Solution: “Magic is the sole science not accepted by scientists, because they can’t understand it.”

Harry Houdini Puzzle Two Solution: “I think if you would have cut Houdini with a knife, blood wouldn’t come out, PR would.”

– Criss Angel

This week’s Sudoku answers

©2021 Universal Uclick

©2021 NEA, Inc.

28IN 2.0 Vizio sound bar $60.

Ladies Puma Golf shoes size 6, grey/pink $30. Call/text 941-527-9509

RED PAGES AD RATES

POST YOUR AD WITH EASE.

jobs

ADVERTISE YOUR MERCHANDISE with the total value of all items $200 or less in this section for FREE! Limit 1 ad per month,15 words or less.

Price must be included next to each item. No commercial advertising.

Ad runs 2 consecutive weeks in 1 Observer.

Call 941-955-4888 Or Email ad to: classified@yourobserver.com (Please provide your name and address) Or Online at: www.yourobserver.com Or mail to: The Observer Group 1970 Main St. - 3rd Floor Sarasota, Fl 34236

WANTED: VINTAGE Costume Jewelry & Clothing. I pay Cash for Old costume jewelry, vintage/antique clothing, Mid Century Modern Lighting & Antiques Jane: (978) 390-8803.

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Items Under $200

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peekers’ place

stuff

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real estate

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SARASOTA OBSERVER

Luxurious 4 Bed 4 Bath Built in 2020 Lakefront Lakewood Ranch $1,599,900 Everything Updated Sarasota's Phillipi Gardens 3/2/2 $359,900 55+ Beach and Boating: One story villa 2BED-2BATH $424,000 Longboat Key Beach House: on Canal, 2BED-2BATH, 1/CAR, Dock. $530,000. Owner/agent Private Boat Lift: beach access villa/condo Pet Friendly $399,000 Call for coming soon listings.

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

Call 941-726-2677

Real Estate Wanted LOOKING FOR a 2BR furnished beach home or condo. 1 or 2 months: June, July, August. 2 Adults.

Non-smoking, no pets.

Will provide local references.

Call or text: 727-224-4859.

WANTED DOWNTOWN 2/2 Condo 1200+sf Private purchase. Qualified buyer.

Require pool, upscale finishes. $325,000 range.

No realtor fee.

(508) 367-4302.

Adult Care Services CAREGIVER: compassionate, honest, discreet, college-educated.

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SELL STUFF HERE! YourObserver.com/RedPages

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Adult Care Services

Adult Care Services

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REAL LOCAL STUFF HERE!

YourObserver.com/RedPages PATIENT SITTINGChristian man looking to take care of elderly gentleman will stay with them for a few hours a day. Please call for more information: 941-364-9227.

Perfect Solutions For Seniors *Caregivers/Companions * CNA’s/HHA’s * Assistance with Daily Living Activities * Hourly 24/7 Care -Affordable Rates * Licensed/ Bonded/ Insured

Phone (941) 809-1438 HHA# 299994819

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Temporary or long term care.

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References available. No new faces, one consistent caregiver.

COVID Negative.

Call Kati: 941-536-7706.

SELL YOUR STUFF HERE! Home Services ESTATE MANAGER/ HOUSEHOLD MANAGER Olga has ability to manage all of your properties with seamless service standard. As a highly organized and intelligent professional, I will represent your family in the highest manner. I have over 20 years of experience managing household services.

PLEASE CONTACT ME FOR MORE INFORMATION AND INQUIRIES. (248) 755-0327. www.olgascleanhouse.com

352020

941.270.4400

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

Wallpaper installation & removal, pressure washing.

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35+ years experience.

ES HANDYMAN & REMODELING. Hardwood flooring, kitchens, painting and electrical.

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716-474-8492.

COMPUTER REPAIR SALES & SERVICE

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Computer

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“Specializing in 6” Seamless Gutters”

Moving

HOUSE CLEANING SERVICES offered by Christian lady to Sarasota area. Years of experience with satisfied references. Call Theresa: 502-767-0259.

Auto Service

941.650.9790 YoderAluminum.com

PROFESSIONAL GARDENER Design, installation, maintenance, flowers, herbs, vegetables, and exotic gardens.

Regular weekly lawn maintenance and restoration 40+ years experience.

Tomlarsen559@gmail.com farmgirlfarmboyorganics.com 941-357-7750 business or 678-755-3804 cell

Cleaning

SELL YOUR CAR! Owner / Operator Insured

Landscaping/ Lawn Services

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

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

NEED ASSISTANCE? A LENDING HAND HOME CARE

13B

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

Auto Transport

HOME CARE COMPANION SEEKING P/T position.

Please Call Ellen: 941-924-8443.

Aluminum

Dustin Yoder

|

(Next to Beneva Flowers)

350458

Homes for Sale

home services

YourObserver.com

941-929-9095

Realtors

Pegatronics Computer Instruction and Repair It’s Easier Than You Think!

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GROW YOUR BUSINESS WITH THE RED PAGES

Call to reserve your ad space: 941-955-4888

Concrete State Lic. CR CO25291

LACIVITA CONCRETE Since 1967

Residential Concrete Specialist 350470

Patios - Driveways - Sidewalks

3680493-01

922-3157 Call 941-955-4888 to reserve your ad YourObserver.com/RedPages

Michael Koch Concrete, Inc.

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Servicing the Sarasota area since 1999

Also Laying Stone

Reasonable Prices

Licensed & Insured

918-8587

Free Estimates

334711

ON TARGET

OBSERVER RED PAGES

351527

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

SARASOTA OBSERVER

Doors

Health

Sliding Glass Door Repair

This Doctor is Among

“FIX IT - DON’T REPLACE”

SPINAL DECOMPRESSION PHYSICIANS IN AMERICA

Call 941.358.2224 today to schedule a

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BONDED/INSURED

Home Services

PALMER RANCH HOMEWATCHERS® Watching your home while you’re away

WHO’S WATCHING YOUR HOME & BOAT?

Bob & Carol Guthrie 941.993.6613

Lower your home insurance with our GPS stamped reports on every visit.

Serving the Palmer Ranch Area Since 2007

www.PalmerRanchHomewatchers.com PalmerRanchHomewatchers@comcast.net

Call a certified HOME WATCH PROFESSIONAL you can trust!

✦ Carpentry ✦ Indoors ✦ Remodeling ✦ Ceramic Tile ✦ Water & Fire Damage ✦ Kitchen/Baths 350459

“OUR ESTIMATES & ADVICE ARE FREE”

(941) 504-3168

941.348.1359 TheConcierge.co

HOME

ome epaiR eRvice • No JoB Too SmaLL • ScReeN RepaiRS • paiNTiNG/DRY WaLL • TiLe RepaiRS • & MUCH MORE!

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Licensed & insured.

Cell

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$

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STEVE PANEBIANCO H R S

DAYANA

610.657.6792 Free estimates.

351516

CALL 941-955-4888

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GLENN KROECKER

954-1878

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Doors

DON’T let your PATIO DOORS be a DRAG or your WINDOWS be a PANE!!

SHOWER & BATH MAKEOVERS Cleaned - Regrouted - Caulked - Sealed

Call John 941.377.2940

Free Estimates • Sarasota Resident Since 1974

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• Window Repairs • Sliding Glass Door Repairs • Sliding Glass Door Deadbolts 3687676-01

Curt’s Lawn Service

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THE GRAB BAR GUY

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DrGrabBars.com

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

High Tech Home Watch and Concierge Service available Who is checking the house while you are gone?

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Rita Raimer

DR. DAVID CIFRA, DC

chtr.construction@gmail.com

Licensed Lic. #38333 References

CALL PINNACLE TODAY! 941-306-1999

Board Certified in the specialty of non-surgical spinal decompression

CHTR Construction, Renovations & Home Repairs

GladysKhabbaz@gmail.com 805 Molly Circle, Sarasota

Dave and Connie Grundy

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“Medical Breakthrough Technology for bulging, herniated and degenerative disc ...

No Pain, No Drugs, No Injections, No Surgery”

Handyman

Naji Aoun

YourObserver.com THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021 3

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

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

|

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|

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14B SARASOTA OBSERVER OrmondBeachObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

Power Washing Pressure Washing

Local And Long Distance Movers Residential Moves Commercial Moves Pack, Crate & Wrap

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Licensed

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by

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Roofing

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941-228-9850

Joe Murray, Owner

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Licensed & Insured State Lic CFC056748

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

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

found here.

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

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Licensed & Insured CCC - 058059 CBC - 1253936

YOUR HOME

25

UP TO

STANDARD WINDOWS

ows

120

$

SPECIAL 00 5

$

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Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES | 941- 284 - 5880

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Kenneth Fuhlman Inc.

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Form Serving Longboat Key Since 2005

Purified water window cleaning available!!

Fully Insured

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Plumbing

941-923-8140

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Windows

Gulf Gate RoofinG inc.

• Pet Sitting • Dog Walking • Over 24 years experience • Excellent references

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| scaperotta@aol.com

10% OFF FOR MENTIONING THIS AD

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Trees

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make your moving day a pleasure.

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BEFORE

AFTER

Italian American Owned

352045

For $95 per hour you get: A truck, 2 men with equipment, experience and a great attitude to

Faulkner’s

specialty screens / screw replacement / paint

Serving Sarasota/Manatee Area Since 2004

Wizard Moving SRQ

Ray - 941-313-4538

941-345-5264

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351520

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

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15B

Screening

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

350454

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OBSERVER RED PAGES

Call 941-955-4888 YourObserver.com/RedPages

351521

Movers

|

SARASOTA OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

DOING MORE IS OUR DISTINCTION

$

WWW.SCHEMMELGROUP.COM

NEW LISTING

S I E S TA K E Y 5 3 4 2 H I D D E N H A R B O R R OA D | $ 2 , 9 9 5 ,0 0 0 Buildable lot in highly desirable Siesta Key neighborhood.

$

40

MILLION

CLOSED OR PENDING IN 2021

D OW N TOW N S A R A S OTA 1 2 8 G O L D E N G AT E P O I N T # 9 01- #10 01 | $ 3 ,49 5 ,0 0 0 Three-story penthouse in one of the best locations in downtown Sarasota.

S I E S TA K E Y 1 3 5 6 P O I N T C R I S P R OA D | $ 4 , 9 9 8 ,0 0 0 Rarely available front and back water views! Boat dock with lift and private beach.

LO N G B OAT K E Y 3 10 0 G U L F O F M E X I C O D R I V E | $1 , 2 5 0,0 0 0 Build your dream home on Longboat Key.

104

MILLION

CLOSED IN 2020

PENDING

PR E S TA N C I A 3 8 3 2 B O CA P O I N T E D RI V E | $749,0 0 0 This custom residence offers privacy and tranquil lake views.

M YA K K A R I V E R T R A I L S 6 8 8 N O R T H RI V E R R OA D | $ 49 9,0 0 0 Buildable 14-acre lot on the Myakka River.

A R L I N GTO N PA R K 2 5 3 0 P R O S P EC T S T R E E T | $1 , 2 5 9,0 0 0 Historic East of Trail home just minutes from Downtown Sarasota.

Listing inventory is at a historically low level not seen in many years.

As a result of our extensive marketing reach and in-depth understanding of the local market, we can provide you with the best possible experience when selling your home. If you are considering selling, now is the time. Please contact us!

JOEL SCHEMMEL, J.D., REALTOR® 941.587.4894 | JOEL.SCHEMMEL@PREMIERSIR.COM SHARON CHIODI, REALTOR® 941.809.0380 | SHARON.CHIODI@PREMIERSIR.COM SCHEMMELGROUP

SCHEMMELGROUP

SCHEMMELGROUP

SCHEMMELGROUP

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

351110-1

16B

. . . t i a W But

S ’ E R THE !

E R MO

XNLV19038

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SELBY.ORG

Est. 1987

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We have been serving the Sarasota area since 1987. Call today for a consultation to begin your life-changing transformation.

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Burr Bakke, DDS

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Advanced Care and Dental Technology at One Location Stay Connected With Us

(941) 999-3205 | 3951 Swift Rd., Sarasota, FL 34231

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