Siesta Key Observer 12.2.21

SIESTA KEY

Observer

Spirit for the run.

PAGE 20

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

FREE • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2021

VOLUME 52, NO. 21

YOUR TOWN

Players pursues auditorium The theater could perform temporarily in 1930s-era bayfront landmark. SEE PAGE 3

Sliding into the holidays Courtesy photo

Special delivery

Thanksgiving can be a special time spent with loved ones, but actually planning it can be much more difficult.

Tidewell Hospice recently worked to make Thanksgiving Day easier for its hospice and home health patients by preparing, organizing and delivering more than 400 meals Nov. 24. The aim was to provide Thanksgiving meals to patients and their families without any of the day-of stress in preparing it.

The initiative — in partnership with Tidewell Foundation, Grove, Pier 22 and Morton’s Gourmet Market — had Tidewell Hospice staff and volunteers meeting at the administration building on Wednesday morning to organize the meals and deliver them to patients and their families.

The foundation also received $25 donations to pick up food for families on the donors’ behalf.

Hanukkah celebrations kick off in a variety of fun ways.

SEE PAGES 12-15

Harry Sayer

Kayla Bieliaev rides down the ice slide at Chabad of Sarasota’s A Taste of Chanukah event at Phillippi Estate Park.

A+E

HE’S BACK! Share with us!

Sarasotans do nothing halfway.

Parades, Easter egg hunts, cool cars that end in vowels (we’re looking at you, Ferrari and Tesla owners).

So as the holiday season gets closer and closer to the big day, we want to share your taste in decorating with your neighbors.

The Observer will be on the lookout for homes and businesses decorated above and beyond for the holidays. And we’ll be especially attentive to anyone who can pull off the winter wonderland look captured in the above photo.

Share with us what impresses you by emailing reporter Harry Sayer at HSayer@ YourObserver.com with your suggestions for possible publication in the Dec. 16 issue.

Harry Sayer

Santa Claus waves to enormous cheers and applause during Saturday’s parade on Siesta Key.

Santa and the Siesta Key holiday parade return to cheering crowds.

SEE PAGE 19

Embrace oneness.

INSIDE

TABS

W HAT ’S HAPPENING

SARASOTA OBSERVER

|

WEEK OF DEC. 2, 2021

Commissioner Hagen Brody on Sarasota’s Municipal Auditorium on the bayfront. Read more on Page 3

Parade street closures are set for Saturday

5

W

Girls basketball victories without a loss this season for the Riverview High Rams.

ith the 25th annual Downtown Sarasota Holiday Parade on tap for Saturday, the Sarasota Police Department released a series of street closures for the event, which proceeds on Main Street from U.S. 301 to J.D. Hamel Park.

Vehicle tow-away zones will be in effect hours before the parade’s 7 p.m. start.

The street closure schedule begins on Saturday and extends as late as past midnight: n 9 a.m. Saturday to 12:30 a.m.

Sunday: Main Street closed from Osprey to U.S. 301 n 9 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.: Main Street closed from Orange Avenue to Osprey Avenue n 11 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.: Main Street closed from U.S. 41 to Orange Avenue n Noon to 12:30 a.m.: Main Street closed from U.S. 301 to School Avenue; Fletcher Avenue closed from Main Street to Fruitville; Wallace closed from Main Street to Fruitville; East Avenue closed from Fruitville to Ringling Boulevard; School Avenue closed from Main Street to Fruitville; Audubon closed from Main Street to Fruitville; First Street closed from Audubon to East Avenue n 2:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.: Lemon Avenue closed from First Street to Main Street n 3 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.: Gulfstream Avenue closed from U.S. 41 to McAnsh Roads will reopen once the end of the parade reaches a twoblock distance from each block.

PAGE 16

2,172

Runners who took part in the 5K race on Thanksgiving morning at Benderson Park.

PAGE 20

$415,389

October median price for a single-family home in Sarasota County, a record.

PAGE 26

CALENDAR n Sarasota City Commission regular meeting — 9 a.m. Monday, Dec. 6, Commission Chambers, Sarasota City Hall, 1565 First St. n Sarasota County Commission meeting — 9 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 7 and Wednesday, Dec. 8, Commission Chambers, County Administration Building, 1660 Ringling Blvd. n Sarasota County School Board meeting — 3 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 7, Board Chambers, Landings Administration Building, 1960 Landings Blvd.

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OK, so maybe it’s not the best Christmas gift for the downtown condo dweller on your list, but if you have family or friends who live in more rural sections of Sarasota County, well, has the Mosquito Management Services office got an idea for you.

Several of the county’s sentinel chickens — that is, chickens whose blood is routinely checked for traces of mosquito-borne diseases — are approaching retirement age. And like police dogs or service animals, chickens can be useful long into their retirements.

According to a news release from Sarasota County, potential adoption homes are always prechecked by Mosquito Management staffers to ensure an appropriate environment.

From there, once approved, it can be years of free eggs and a measure of poultry companionship.

“We encourage caretakers to treat our ladies like beloved pets as they have been an integral part of our disease surveillance and deserve the reward of a fabulous retirement home,” a county news release says.

Interested? If you’d like to be considered, call 861-5000 and ask to speak to Mosquito Management Services.

Correction Eric Garwood

Street closures begin on Main Street between U.S. 301 and U.S. 41 hours before the parade’s 7 p.m. kickoff on Saturday.

Norah Murray took part in Fruitville Elementary School’s free enterprise and sustainability project featured in the Nov. 25 edition of the Sarasota Observer. Murray’s name was incorrect in a photo caption.

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SARASOTA OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2021

CENTRE

STAGE The city and The Players could partner on the use of a city-owned bayfront facility for the next five years.

DAVID CONWAY DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR

A casual meeting at a coffee shop could produce a new tenant for a city-owned bayfront facility — and allow the city’s oldest arts organization to operate near its longtime home for at least a few more years.

William Skaggs, the CEO of The Players Centre for Performing Arts, grabbed a cup of coffee with thenMayor Hagen Brody earlier this year.

The meetup was informal — Skaggs, hired in summer 2020, was still getting to know people in Sarasota; Brody was checking in on the status of a performing arts institution that announced its intent in 2016 to move out of the city.

The Players has not begun construction on its future home at Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch, so the conversation eventually turned to the organization’s immediate facility needs. Although the theater has established a temporary base at The Crossings at Siesta Key, Skaggs was willing to consider other options. Brody had an idea: the Municipal Auditorium, located at 801 N. Tamiami Trail.

Skaggs’ schedule was open, so he and Brody finished their coffee and headed straight to the auditorium, a structure that dates to 1937. Skaggs liked what he saw enough to begin a conversation with city officials about the logistics of The Players holding shows and training sessions at the auditorium, as well as using the building for office space.

Those negotiations are what led to an item on the agenda for Monday’s City Commission meeting, where the board will discuss the possibil-

File photos

IF YOU GO

REGULAR CITY COMMISSION MEETING When: 9 a.m. Monday, Dec. 6 Where: Commission Chambers, City Hall, 1565 First St.

ity of leasing Municipal Auditorium space to The Players. According to the agenda, city staff and The Players are proposing a five-year lease with an option to extend.

Skaggs made clear that any agreement to use the Municipal Auditorium would not affect The Players’ ultimate plans for a Lakewood Ranch facility. Still, even though the theater has moved out of its former facility at 838 N. Tamiami Trail — now demolished — Skaggs noted the organization has maintained a footprint in the city, with a studio on Boulevard of the Arts and a set and costume facility on 10th Street.

“The idea of the Municipal Auditorium allows us to maintain what’s already a strong downtown presence, literally across the street from where the old theater was,” Skaggs said.

PLAY BILLS

In addition to continuing a partnership with a local arts organization, city officials see the lease as an opportunity to activate an underused property and eliminate expenses associated with operating Municipal Auditorium.

According to information included with Monday’s agenda, city staff estimated leasing the auditorium to The Players would save the city $72,000 annually. That figure doesn’t cover the totality of the costs associated with the property: Even as the city projects an increase of more than $190,000 in rental revenue at Municipal Auditorium and Bayfront Community Center in fiscal year 2022, the budget still anticipates the facilities will have an operating deficit of $266,649.

The city’s municipal auditoriums fund, which also includes costs and revenues associated with the Payne Park Auditorium, has operated at a deficit for the past nine years. That deficit has increased each of the past six years, rising from $107,000 in 2016 to an estimated $370,000 in 2021. In the fiscal 2022 budget, the city reclassified the auditoriums fund as a subset of the Parks and

Recreation Department, rather than its historic designation as an enterprise fund, because the activity was not self-sustaining.

Brody said there was a reason Municipal Auditorium came to mind in his conversation with Skaggs.

“That operation has lost money year in, year out,” Brody said.

“It’s a beautiful building, and it’s been restored. And I think it really deserves a higher purpose.”

Brody said he respects The Players’ plans for its future, but he believes Municipal Auditorium could thrive if the city finds the right tenant. As someone who bemoaned the loss of The Players to Lakewood Ranch, Brody said there’s a particular value in collaborating with an arts organization that’s been around for almost a century.

“It’s hugely important,” Brody said. “Arts and culture is a huge part of who we are as a community, even dating back to John Ringling’s vision for the city of Sarasota.”

MOVE-IN LOGISTICS

Even if the rest of the City Commission is supportive of the lease con-

After a $500,000 restoration project, City Commissioner Hagen Brody says he is hopeful a long-term tenant will help increase activity at the Municipal Auditorium.

cept, Skaggs noted there is a series of steps that must be taken before any deal can be finalized.

“It’s a process,” Skaggs said. “It’s not one meeting and everything is done and ready to go.”

The organization must obtain a major conditional use permit to lease the auditorium, a process city staff estimated could take four to six months. The Players is requesting the city waive applicable development review fees, which staff estimated would total at least $10,681.

Under the proposed lease, The Players would continue to rent the auditorium to parties interested in using the facility for events. City staff said the theater had agreed to attempt to accommodate longtime events that have operated out of Municipal Auditorium, such as the coin show and orchid show.

Regardless of what the city decides Monday, The Players will continue to operate at The Crossings in the short term. The theater’s next show, “The Marvelous Wonderettes,” is set to run Dec. 8-19.

The proposed lease would not extend to Bayfront Community Center, located on the west side of the Municipal Auditorium property. The city intends for The Bay Park Conservancy to manage the community center. Skaggs cited the ongoing bayfront redevelopment effort as one reason The Players saw Municipal Auditorium as an exciting opportunity, also speaking positively about the site’s proximity to other Sarasota arts organizations.

“There’s a lot of wonderful possibilities,” Skaggs said.

Although the rest of the City Commission has yet to weigh in on the proposed lease — and The Players might not be a long-term presence at the auditorium either way — Brody expressed similar optimism about the potential partnership.

“I think it really is a marriage that could turn into something beautiful for the community,” Brody said.

Above: Hired in September 2020, The Players CEO William Skaggs is overseeing the theater’s move to Lakewood Ranch while pursuing interim options for performances during construction of a new venue.

Left: Although the city generates some revenue from rentals of the Municipal Auditorium, operating the facility has generated hundreds of thousands of dollars in losses over the past decade.

3

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2021

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yaite Ruiz, a vice president with Cigar Paradise, said the business is

Courtesy photo

accustomed to having neighbors who are sensitive to the potential negative effects of cigar smoke. Cigar Paradise has locations in Madeira Beach in Pinellas County and downtown St. Petersburg.

So far, the stores have coexisted peacefully.

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

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

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

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

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SARASOTA OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2021

5

Committee discusses details of elected mayor proposal Charter Review Committee members expressed a desire to limit powers of the mayor, maintaining the city manager as a strong administrative leader.

DAVID CONWAY DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR

Overhauling a city’s form of government can be a complicated process.

It’s one thing to want a more powerful mayor, one who is directly elected by voters. But there’s a spectrum of power structures that fit under that broad description.

How long are mayoral terms?

What specific positions is the mayor responsible for overseeing? Does the mayor appoint charter officials, or is that responsibility left to the City Commission? Can the mayor exercise a veto?

These are some of the questions the city’s Charter Review Committee attempted to address at its Nov. 22 meeting. The committee, which meets once a decade to discuss potential revisions to the city charter, voted 6-3 on Nov. 9 to endorse discarding the current council-manager form of government in favor of one with an elected strong mayor.

As the committee worked through the details associated with a prospective strong mayor government, some members expressed frustration with the process of picking and choosing between options for individual variables that were ultimately interconnected.

“When I was a little girl, I had a book, and it had three parts — it was all different kinds of animals’ heads, bodies and legs,” committee member Crystal Bailey said. “I’d laugh because it’d have ostrich legs on a wolf body or whatever. That’s kind of how I feel this process is starting to remind me of.”

Ultimately, a majority of the committee expressed support for a less powerful mayor position, one that would not have the ability to uni-

laterally hire or fire the city’s chief administrator. The board voted unanimously to maintain the City Commission’s authority to hire and fire a city manager.

Several committee members who favored an elected mayor said they were hoping to establish a consistent figurehead atop the local government to serve as someone who sets a vision for Sarasota, but they did not think that needed to entail a major overhaul of how the city operates.

“I don’t want this big-authority mayor,” member Kim Githler said.

“That is not what I’m looking for. I’m looking for someone to bring continuity and collaboration.”

The committee spoke positively about City Manager Marlon Brown, and several members sought to ensure any changes to the form of government would not preclude his continued involvement in city leadership. Committee member Philip DiMaria, who supported an elected mayor, said he was supportive of limiting the mayor’s powers if it meant the city could more effectively retain its professional staff.

“I just think about Mr. Brown and the incredible job that he’s done here in just one short year, and I would hate to see that talent leave the city,” DiMaria said.

Brown said he would not want to work under the direct authority of an elected mayor. He expressed concern that such a role would not offer the stability of his current job, where a majority of the City Commission would have to support removing him from his position.

“My biggest fear about working with one person, whether it’s a twoyear term or four-year term, is I could be gone at that election,” Brown said.

“The entire director-level positions could be gone in one election. You lose all of that institutional knowledge in one election on one day.”

The board initially discussed establishing a two-year term for an elected mayor, citing concerns from the public about the level of oversight associated with the position. Later in the meeting, however, the committee voted 7-2 in favor of

File photo

Several Charter Review Committee members cited the leadership of City Manager Marlon Brown as a reason for limiting the powers of an elected mayor.

recommending a four-year term for the mayor. Committee member Dan Clermont expressed trepidation about a shorter term, stating he did not want the mayor’s focus to always be on courting voters.

“That two years — my goodness, you are constantly raising money,” Clermont said. “You are constantly in the grind of the election.”

Just before the meeting concluded, the committee moved toward reversing one of the major decisions it made at its Nov. 9 meeting. Initially, the committee recommended making the mayor a nonvoting member of the City Commission who presides over meetings. Based on the discussion at the Nov. 22 meeting, the committee voted 6-3 against making the mayor position separate from the City Commission.

Clermont said he supported separating the mayor from the com-

mission, arguing it was important to have an elected leader focused solely on policy, rather than just a hired administrator who also had to manage the day-to-day operations of the city.

“It’s having an elected mayor who has the responsibility of pulling the commission together and being that consensus-builder on city policy issues,” Clermont said.

But other board members suggested such a position was redundant and that the mayor could be elected as one of the five members of the City Commission instead.

The committee did not decide whether the elected mayor would have a vote on the commission or the exact process by which the mayor would be elected. The committee is scheduled to present its final recommendations to the City Commission for consideration in March.

“It’s having an elected mayor who has the responsibility of pulling the commission together and being that consensusbuilder on city policy issues.”

— Committee member Dan Clermont

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Although some Siesta Key residents offered vocal opposition to plans for a hotel on Calle Miramar, a majority of the County Commission said the proposal adhered to all applicable regulations.

Resident turns to courts over OK of Siesta hotel Although county officials determined a Siesta Key hotel project was within regulations, one resident is asking a judge for a second opinion.

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A Siesta Key resident has filed a lawsuit challenging the county’s approval of a hotel project in the island’s central business district.

On Nov. 24, Lourdes Ramirez submitted a complaint against Sarasota County in the 12th Judicial Circuit Court regarding the county’s Oct. 27 approval of an eight-story, 170-room hotel on Calle Miramar in Siesta Key Village. The suit argues the project would have adverse effects on Siesta Key and that the plans violate the county’s comprehensive plan.

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Initially, the developer of the Calle Miramar property submitted a proposed comprehensive plan amendment that would eliminate the 1989 standard for any hotels built on barrier islands properties carrying a zoning designation of commercial general. In May, however, representatives for developer Robert Anderson withdrew that application, and county staff determined the proposal could move forward without amending the comprehensive plan.

On Oct. 27, the County Commission voted to revise its development regulations to remove density calculations for hotel projects. Representatives for the developer argued density limits should apply only to residential projects and that the hotel projects should be evaluated the same as any other commercial building.

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tion of county regulations, stating in her suit that the 1989 standards for hotel density should still apply to the development of the Calle Miramar site. After speakers at the Oct. 27 public hearing unsuccessfully made similar arguments, Ramirez expressed hope that she would find a different outcome in the courts.

“I felt we had no choice but to take legal action now,” Ramirez said. “I didn’t see any other way to get the county to listen.”

The hotel plans on the Key have drawn outspoken opposition from stakeholders in the area. The Siesta Key Association, the island’s largest resident group, organized against the proposals. Another group, the Siesta Key Coalition, formed specifically in response to the hotel concepts.

Although she has communicated with those groups previously, Ramirez said she was taking legal action independent of any other organization on Siesta Key. Ramirez said part of the reason for that was expediency.

“As an individual, it was easier for me to just go forward,” she said.

During the past several years, residents on and around Siesta Key have largely been unsuccessful in turning to courts in hopes of stopping projects they opposed. In 2019, the 12th Circuit denied a suit that argued the Siesta Promenade development on U.S. 41 did not comply with county regulations. Between 2018 and 2020, judges repeatedly turned away efforts from Siesta Key groups to block the dredging of Big Pass as part of a Lido Beach renourishment project, plans that the city and state approved.

Ramirez acknowledged that in many cases, courts grant local gov-

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2021

Beauty is our Business

File photo

Siesta Key resident Lourdes Ramirez is optimistic a judge will side with her argument that a Siesta Key hotel project does not comply with the county’s comprehensive plan.

ernments leeway to interpret regulatory language as officials see fit.

When it comes to the Siesta Key hotel plans, however, Ramirez believes the applicable rules allow for only one interpretation — and that the Village project was improperly approved as a result.

“It’s not ambiguous at all,” Ramirez said.

The suit asks a judge to determine that the development order related to the hotel project is inconsistent with the comprehensive plan and enjoin any development linked to that order.

The outcome of the suit could have ramifications for three other proposed hotel developments on Siesta Key, including a seven-story, 120room project on Old Stickney Point Road that the county endorsed in November.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2021

OPINION / OUR VIEW

SARASOTA / SIESTA KEY

Longboat all in Sarasota?

It makes sense. But two things are missing: a champion to pull it off and citizens who want it.

S

arasota County Commissioner Christian Ziegler is right. It would take a champion.

A strong, indefatigable, passionate, committed champion to lead and guide everyone involved to agree on a most difficult objective: consolidating Longboat Key into Sarasota County.

That topic came up again in November before the Longboat Key Town Commission after the commission received a 34-page report from the Florida Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability analyzing and assessing what it would take to shift the town into either Manatee or Sarasota county.

It would be a Herculean, yearslong task.

But why even do it? It’s all about the money and efficiency.

Talk of ending the split of Longboat Key between Manatee and Sarasota counties has festered for decades. In fact, there have been many occasions when town commissioners (and this newspaper) have advocated an even more radical idea than consolidating into one county: seceding from both Manatee and Sarasota counties and forming Florida’s 68th county.

That proposition usually surfaces when the Manatee or Sarasota county commissions or school boards treat the town with indifference and disdain, forgetting that Longboat Key taxpayers send $136 million a year in property taxes across the bay to the county and school governments.

Longboat’s Manatee taxpayers send $32.2 million to Manatee County and $13.9 million to the school district. Longboat’s Sarasota taxpayers send $61.5 million to Sarasota County and $28.7 million to the school district.

No wonder Longboat taxpayers and town commissioners often ask what Longboaters get in return.

Not enough, to be sure.

And although it’s tempting sometimes to think of Longboat seceding and becoming its own county, that idea is even more daunting of a journey than consolidating the town into one county. There is no way either of the counties or school boards would allow secession and let all that money disappear.

Instead, about five years ago former Longboat Key Commissioner Irwin Pastor proffered the idea of consolidating Longboat into Sarasota County. Pastor knew it

THE FULL REPORT Hover your cellphone camera over the QR code below to read the 34-page report analyzing a possible consolidation of Longboat Key into one county.

would be difficult and take years.

But two things drove him: the money Longboat’s Manatee residents would save in taxes and the savings that would come from eliminating the duplicate tasks and costs required of the town staff.

Pastor favored the idea of consolidating into Sarasota County, primarily because of what it would save Longboat’s Manatee taxpayers in property taxes. If you combined all of the property taxes for both counties, a Manatee taxpayer whose home is assessed at $1 million would save nearly $2,600 a year — 15% less than now. That adds up fast.

Pastor also liked how consolidation would make town government less expensive and more efficient.

But he also knew this challenge: Manatee County would never go for the idea unless there was some type of land swap with Sarasota County that would replace the tax dollars Longboat Key generated.

Pastor told us once that land is in Northeast Sarasota County, parts of which are in Lakewood Ranch.

He’s right.

But who can make that deal happen? More important, though, is whether Longboat Key’s Manatee County taxpayers want that tax savings badly enough.

As noted in the OPPAGA report: “Consolidating the Key into one county was not a high priority for a majority of Longboat Key residents responding to an April 2021 survey.

Among 11 local issues, consolidation of the Key into one county and replacing the Bayfront Recreational Center were the only two issues that fewer than half of respondents ranked as important.”

It would be ideal for Longboat’s Manatee property owners to pay Sarasota County property tax rates, and it would be ideal for the town’s government operations to deal with only one county. The benefits over time would exceed the costs. But as Ziegler pointed out: Where is the

PROS AND CONS OF LBK CONSOLIDATION LEAVE LBK DIVIDED BETWEEN TWO COUNTIES All county services, city agreements and current financing agreements remain the same.

ADVANTAGES n Avoids the expense, time, effort and disruption of moving the county line. n No negative impact on either county’s school district tax revenues. n No negative impact on either county’s other tax revenues. n No additional cost to residents for location transition, such as costs to change legal documents. n Consolidating the Key into one county was not a high priority for a majority of Longboat Key residents responding to an April 2021 survey. Among 11 local issues, consolidation of the Key into one county and replacing the Bayfront Recreational Center were the only two issues that less than half of respondents ranked as important.

DISADVANTAGES n The town would continue to have duplication of some county or state departments, services or processes (e.g., emergency management, property appraisal and permitting and enforcement). n The town would continue to incur some financial impacts from duplication, such as the cost of having two supervisors of elections and staff attending/preparing documents for boards or committees in two counties. n Residents would continue to experience a split in transit services and differences in transit wait times between the Manatee and Sarasota sides of the Key. n Potential benefits of having the town in one county, such as justifying placement of a library on the Key, would not be realized.

CONSOLIDATE LBK WITH SARASOTA COUNTY Contingent on the two counties working out a mutually agreeable transition plan that addresses any outstanding debt.

ADVANTAGES

n Residents currently in the

Manatee portion of Longboat Key would save approximately 12% annually on their property taxes. n Consolidates the Key under one county and thus avoids duplication of some county or state departments, services or processes. n The town would no longer incur financial impacts from duplication. n Fewer residents would pay costs associated with location transition, such as costs to change legal documents, than if the Key were consolidated within Manatee County. n Shorter lead time for transit services. Sarasota County provides transit services with 30 minutes’ notice, compared to a reservation by 5 p.m. the prior day for Manatee County. n Continuity of critical services currently provided by Sarasota County, including emergency dispatch services. n Greater density of residents might justify additional county services, such as a public library, on the Key as important.

DISADVANTAGES n The Manatee County School District would lose approximately $13.9 million in tax revenue annually while avoiding expenses for only 38 students. n Manatee County would lose approximately$14.4 million in tax revenue annually without an entirely commensurate loss of responsibility for services. n Longboat Key might need to make new provisions for critical services currently provided by Manatee County, including water, wastewater and use of a landfill. n Some residents would pay costs associated with location transition, such as costs to change legal documents. n Developers in the affected area on Longboat Key would pay higher impact fees for new construction, as Sarasota County charges more types of impact fees than Manatee County. n Longboat Key would lose the $60,000 that Manatee County pays to offset the cost of beach patrol at the town’s park.

Source: Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability

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incentive for the champion to step forward and take on this sensible, but Herculean, cause?

Historic moment: Republicans outnumber Democrats It’s probably safe to say most oldtime Florida Republicans never thought they’d live to see the day — the day Florida’s Republican Party voters outnumbered Florida’s Democratic Party voters.

But it’s here. A historic moment in Florida politics.

At the end of October, the Florida Department of State Division of Elections confirmed registered Republicans outnumber registered Democrats by 4,318 voters.

For Republicans, it’s a moment to

rejoice. Leading up to the 2020 general presidential election, Republicans shivered over the prospect of losing more ground to Democrats in voter rolls because of an influx of Democrats from hurricane-torn Puerto Rico. Republican loyalists feared the state was on the verge of once and for all shifting from a purple hue to a blue state.

But that didn’t happen. Donald Trump tripled his margin of victory over Joe Biden compared to that of his 2016 victory over Hillary Clin-

ton — margins of 371,686 in 2020 versus 112,911 in 2016.

Even with that size of victory, however, at the end of 2020, Democrats still outnumbered Republicans by 134,242 registered voters.

But then came all of the Biden disasters — a gift for the Republican Party of Florida.

You would think Biden made it easy for Republicans to recruit new members. Likewise, given the influx of people fleeing the big lockdown states of New York, New Jersey and

BY THE NUMBERS: VOTER REGISTRATIONS 2020 VS. 2021

As of the end of October, registered Republicans for the first time in Florida history outnumber registered Democrats, according to the Florida Department of State Division of Elections.

% of Total Registered

2020 2021 Chg. % Chg. 2020 / 2021 FLORIDA Republicans 5,169,012 5,118,357 -50,655 -1.0% 35.8%/35.8% Democrats 5,303,254 5,114,039 -189,215 -3.5% 36.7% / 35.7% Non-Party Affiliates 3,753,286 3,814,567 +61,218 +1.6% 25.9% / 26.6% SARASOTA COUNTY Republicans Democrats Non-Party Affiliates

144,775 106,151 84,121

150,851 106,723 91,231

6,076 572 7,110

+4.2% +0.5% +8.4%

42.5% / 42.4% 31.2% / 30.0% 24.7% / 25.6%

MANATEE COUNTY Republicans Democrats Non-Party Affiliates

118,375 83,648 67,345

120,345 82,170 69,422

1,970 1,478 2077

+1.6% -1.7% +3.0%

43.3% / 43.4% 30.6% / 29.6% 24.6% / 25.0% Source: Florida Division of Elections

California for Florida, you might logically conclude the majority of the people leaving those states most likely would lean Republican — and thus boost Republican voter rolls.

Indeed, that would make a greater story for Florida’s Republicans if their numbers actually grew after the 2020 elections thanks to people fleeing blue states.

But the numbers show that not to be true. Republicans simply lost far fewer voters than did the Democrats since the 2020 elections. As the chart shows, Democrat voter rolls shrunk by 189,215 while Republicans lost 50,655 voters.

Florida Democrats responded to falling behind Republicans by saying in a news release that Secretary of State Laurel Lee, a Republican, has been reclassifying more Democratic voters as inactive than Republicans.

Ah, politics. Don’t they make you sick to your stomach? Nothing is what it is.

But for now, it’s history: Republican voters outnumber Democrats.

The truth, for sure, will be known with the mid-term elections in November 2022.

Thanks to Joe Biden, Florida is on the verge of shifting from purple not to blue but to a definitive red.

Let the voter registration battles begin.

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SARASOTA OBSERVER

Developer advances plans for site of Lido Key hotel The city is holding a public hearing Monday to consider finalizing a land use change associated with the 10-story project.

DAVID CONWAY DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR

T

he redevelopment of the Gulf Beach Resort Motel on Lido Key is set to include about 65 condominium units, according to a presentation at Wednesday’s meeting of the city’s Development Review Committee.

The developer, Naples-based The Ronto Group, offered limited specifics about its intentions for the property at 930 Benjamin Franklin Drive in a preliminary application to the city. At previous meetings, representatives for the developer indicated the project would be 10 stories tall.

The developer is concurrently in the process of obtaining a new zoning designation for the 3.89-acre property that will enable the residential redevelopment. On Monday, the City Commission is scheduled to hold a public hearing on final adoption of the rezoning and associated proffers limiting the intensity of any development on the land.

The rezone application seeks to change the land use classification from Residential Multiple Family 4 to Waterfront Resort. The zoning change increases the maximum buildable height on the property from 95 to 135 feet. Although the proposal drew some complaints from neighboring residents at a first public hearing in June, the majority of city commissioners said they believed the project would be com-

File photo

Although the condo project involves the demolition of the Gulf Beach Resort Motel, the developer will be required to preserve a sign from the property.

IF YOU GO

REGULAR CITY COMMISSION MEETING When: 9 a.m. Monday, Dec. 6 Where: Commission Chambers, City Hall, 1565 First St.

patible with its surroundings even after the height increase.

To accommodate the condo and associated such uses as a restaurant, the developer intends to demolish the Gulf Beach Resort Motel and

Coquina on the Beach, two buildings that date to 1955 and 1946, respectively. The city’s Historic Review Board approved the demolition of the Gulf Beach Resort Motel in 2020.

The conditions associated with the rezoning creates a cap of 70 units allowed to be built on the property.

Those units cannot be rented for any time shorter than a month and cannot be rented more than three times in a year. Any accessory commercial uses, including a restaurant, may be built only if their use is limited to residents and guests at the condo.

The developer also agreed to pro-

vide a 5-foot access easement on the north side of the property for pedestrians to access the beach from Benjamin Franklin Drive. The developer will be required to incorporate the existing Gulf Beach Resort Motel sign into the redevelopment of the property.

According to the preliminary development application, the project team estimated the construction value of the project at $125 million and is targeting a completion date in winter 2024.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2021

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PARK PACT

Also on the agenda for Monday’s commission meeting is consideration of a settlement for a long-standing dispute over a segment of downtown land near Paul Thorpe Park.

Under the terms of a proposed settlement, the city would sell a strip of land adjacent to the Northern Trust parking lot to EDM-Sarasota for $275,000. EDM-Sarasota said it would use the land to build two-story food court, and the company is asking for the right to use a portion of the park for outdoor cafe seating.

The city agreed to sell the land to a real estate company in 2016 despite objections from some residents who said the grassy strip of land has functionally served as part of the park. In 2017, however, Githler Development Inc. said it was the rightful owner of that property and that the city had no right to sell it. By 2018, the dispute over the ownership of the land had expanded to the point that EDM-Sarasota, the owner of the Northern Trust property, was suing the city.

This year, a judge in the 12th Judicial Circuit Court determined the city owned the property, rejecting EDM-Sarasota’s claims. EDM-Sarasota appealed, and in November an attorney representing the company contacted the city with the settlement offer.

Opponents of the settlement said the proposed sale would encroach on areas of the park where the city made improvements in 2019, affecting seating, landscaping and a pergola.

In an email to the city, resident Barbara Campo encouraged officials not to accept the offer.

“Simply put, there is no compelling need that warrants the sacrifice of this park’s irreplaceable offerings of shade trees, a beautiful winding pergola with lovely swings and, most of all, quietude,” Campo wrote.

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IMPROPER DROP 7:14 a.m. — 1000 block of Circus Boulevard Suspicion: An employee at a golf course arrived at work and discovered a large amount of trash had been left in the parking lot near a trash bin on the property. The trash, which was left overnight, included a basketball net, tires, wooden pallets and other items. The trash exceeded 15 pounds. The employee had no information about a possible suspect, and security cameras on the property did not point to the area where the trash was left.

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PARTY PASS 10:21 p.m. — 3000 block of Ringling Boulevard Noise complaint: A person complained about noise coming from a nearby property. An officer spoke to a man at the property, who said a birthday party was taking place. The man said he had a permit from the city that allowed up to 100 decibels of noise until midnight. The man said he did not know what time the party would end.

GHOST TOWN 10:23 p.m. — 1400 block of North Tamiami Trail Noise complaint: An officer responded to a complaint regarding loud music coming from cars at a

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KNOCK IT OFF 2:21 a.m. — 3800 block of Davis Boulevard Dispute: A man said that his cousin was bothering him and kept knocking on his door. An officer spoke to the cousin, who said he wasn’t trying to bother the man. Other family members were present at the man’s home and said they would ensure there were no further issues.

park. An officer arrived at the park and saw no cars. The officer heard no noise violations.

NOV. 26

HEARING OTHER PERSPECTIVES 10:10 p.m. — 300 block of John Ringling Boulevard Noise complaint: An officer responded to a report regarding loud music coming from a bar. Upon arriving at the scene, the officer heard loud music coming from the second floor of the business. The officer went inside to speak to the manager, and the music wasn’t as loud in the area where the manager was sitting. The officer asked the manager to walk out to the sidewalk to hear how loud the music was. The manager asked the DJ to turn the music down.

NOV. 27

NOT LOVIN’ IT 9:36 a.m. — 700 block of North Tamiami Trail Dispute: An employee at a fast-food restaurant said a woman was causing a disturbance inside the restaurant. The employee was unsure why the woman was getting into verbal altercations. The woman refused to leave the area when asked, but she left the restaurant after the employee said she was calling the police.

An officer was unable to locate the woman in the area.

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“We said we would do all eight nights (of Hanukkah),” Rabbi Samantha Kahn said.

The temple has done just that with its Hands on Hanukkah event, an eight-day celebration at the mall starting Nov. 28 and running through Dec. 5. Each night, temple families and visitors make crafts, play games, enjoy stories from temple staff and more. The event also has a number of costumed supporters representing Hanukkah and posing with families.

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— Riverview High’s Caroline King SEE PAGE 18

HIGH

SPORTS

“It is so important to keep pushing yourself to get better.”

5

1

Cardinal Mooney junior guard Olivia Davis scored 29 points in the Cougars’ 54-50 girls basketball victory Nov. 30 on the road against Clearwater High.

VIEW FROM A

COMEBACK The Rams came back to beat then-undefeated Brooks DeBartolo High in overtime Tuesday night.

RYAN KOHN SPORTS REPORTER

2

Cardinal Mooney junior guard Drew Carter scored 15 points in the Cougars’ 72-39 boys basketball victory Nov. 30 at home against Sarasota Christian.

3

Sarasota freshman guard Ghita DiNota scored 12 points and made three rebounds in the Sailors’ 57-42 girls basketball victory Nov. 30 at home against Palmetto High.

4

Riverview freshman goalie Luca Stefenani made three saves Nov. 30 in the Rams’ 2-0 boys soccer victory at home against North Port High.

ing to MaxPreps, and 15th overall in Florida. Those rankings, updated weekly, came before the Brooks DeBartolo win; it’s possible the Rams will move even higher. Riverview was 20-2 last season, so the success is not necessarily a surprise, but Rams players believe the team can accomplish even more in 2021.

“We would love to win state,” King said. “That’s been our goal since we lost to Plant High last year (52-26 in the regional semifinals). I think we can do it. It’s possible. We learned a lot from that loss. We learned how to be tough. Since they (Plant) went on to win state, we learned what it takes to play like a championship level team. We have to play like they did in order to win (in the playoffs).”

Perry said he was initially worried about giving up 40 points or more in the team’s first three games, something the Rams did just eight times in 22 games in 2020. Then he realized the team had scored 63 or more points in those same games, a mark the team hit just four times in 2020.

The quicker you score on offense, the faster the pace of the game and the more possessions there are, for both teams. That will naturally lead to more points allowed, Perry said.

Ultimately, as long as the Rams are playing aggressive and forcing turnovers, totals won’t matter as much as margins — and the Rams are winning their games by an average of 23 points, even with the close overtime win against the Phoenix.

That is a positive sign for a team with championship hopes.

“The girls are ready,” Perry said.

“Some of them have played in big moments, and some of them have not. But they’re learning. The older girls are walking the younger girls through it. And we always try to finish strong.”

In Tuesday night’s win, the Rams walked their talk.

The Rams celebrate after their comeback, overtime win against Brooks DeBartolo Collegiate High, a previously unbeaten charter school from Tampa.

IF YOU GO What: Riverview High girls basketball (5-0) vs. Southeast High (0-3) When: 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 8 Where: Riverview High Why: A chance to see the currently undefeated Rams in action Rams player to watch: Junior Amiya Lloyd, who has stepped into the teams’ point guard role following an injury and excelled

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Sarasota freshman forward Franki Magnotti recorded a goal and an assist in the Sailors’ 4-0 girls soccer victory Nov. 30 on the road against The Out-of-Door Academy.

T

he comeback wasn’t yet complete, but Riverview High girls basketball Coach Gerald Perry knew it soon would be.

His undefeated Rams were playing then-undefeated Brooks DeBartolo Collegiate High of Tampa, perennially one of the top programs in the state, at home Tuesday, and they were losing. Riverview trailed by 7 at the half and, despite improved play at times in the third quarter, trailed by the same margin entering the fourth.

Every time the Rams inched up, the Phoenix responded and returned to a 7-point lead.

But early in the fourth, Riverview made a 6-point run. And Perry saw cracks forming in the Phoenix defense. The pace slowed. DeBartolo looked tired. The Rams were raring to go.

Perry was eventually proved right.

Riverview (5-0) beat Brooks DeBartolo (3-1) 53-50 in overtime.

“Some stressful moments and some growing-pain moments,” Perry said. “But I told my girls to keep fighting, and they did. It was just effort and a few good play calls — by the girls, not by me. This was a good

win for us because they’re (Brooks DeBartolo) a heck of a team.”

Rams senior forward Caroline King led the team with 14 points and added six rebounds. Senior guard Sami Slusarek scored 10 points and nabbed four rebounds while junior forward Krystal Montas scored just 1 point but snagged 10 rebounds and provided five steals and three blocks.

The rest of the team followed suit: Both senior Myah Hagan and junior Jaylah Wilson hit important free throws down the stretch. The Rams’ depth is something that gives the program an advantage over most opponents, even with starting point guard Nicole Blanch going down with an ACL injury. King said junior Amiya Lloyd has done an admirable job filling in for Blanch and has helped the team keep its momentum going. Lloyd had 16 points in the team’s 69-44 win over North Port High on Nov. 18.

Depth helped the Rams beat the Phoenix, but so did defensive tenacity, something that Perry has preached as the team’s coach. The program had its locker room updated over the offseason; “DEBO,” the team’s motto that stands for “Defensive Energy Brings Offense,” is painted on the wall.

The Rams forced the Phoenix into numerous turnovers late in the game, which gave Riverview a chance to catch up.

It is the combination of all those things that has Riverview ranked third in the Florida High School Athletic Association’s Class 7A, accord-

Ryan Kohn

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PROSE AND KOHN

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2021

17

RYAN KOHN

Cougars commit to giving Plus, two local soccer teams are on fire to begin the high school season.

RYAN KOHN SPORTS REPORTER

W

ith the holiday season officially arriving — get your shopping done ahead of time this year, everyone! — I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about giving back.

Usually, that’s all I do about it: think. “Oh, I should donate some time to a local food pantry.” “Oh, I should gather some of my clothes and give them away. I have too many of them anyway, and it might help someone stay warm.” I think these things and then don’t do them. Not nearly as much as I should, anyway.

I bring this up because a local sports team, the Cardinal Mooney High boys lacrosse team, recently went beyond thinking. The players and coaches actually did some good for their community on Nov. 20, and because it’s the holidays, I wanted to highlight their good deed and encourage others, myself included, to follow in their footsteps.

The Cougars volunteered with the Feed the Need program at the West Bradenton Baptist Church’s Southside campus, giving out hot meals to people who otherwise couldn’t afford them. For three hours, the players helped.

“We really want to make a presence in the community,” Coach Derek Wagner said. “A lot of our kids come from good families, but there’s another world out there. There are people in need, especially around the holidays. We want to put an emphasis on these community service things this year. I’ve kind of made it a personal agenda that every player on the team participates in this because

Courtesy photo

The Cardinal Mooney boys lacrosse team volunteered with Feed the Need on Nov. 20.

I want everyone to have input, an impact, on their community.

“There were smiles on the kids’ faces the whole time. I didn’t need to tell them how to help — they just did it. They wanted to do it. They’re good kids. I couldn’t have asked more of them.”

Three hours might not seem like a lot of time, but for kids who go to school all day and then train for

their sport, it’s a sizable chunk of free time that they could have used to do anything else. (Well, if Wagner hadn’t insisted on them being there, but you know what I mean.) They’re not done, either. Wagner said that in December, the team plans on doing another event with Feed the Need as well as giving out gift bags in Sarasota filled with blankets, toiletries and other necessities.

I’m sure there are other high school athletes in the area doing similar things. I’m not writing this to start a competition or anything, just to give others some inspiration. I know it’s made me want to get up and do something, not just think about it.

By the way, the Cougars don’t take the field for their season until February, but Wagner said this year’s squad is among the most talented he’s been able to coach. It’s also fairly inexperienced, with a lot of young players and transfers, but Wagner is looking forward to seeing how it all comes together, as am I. As far as players currently taking the field, there are a bunch of interesting this happening, so I’m going to wrap this up by highlighting just a few of them.

Former Sarasota High running back Brian Battie, now at South Florida, was named to Pro Football Focus’ 2021 All-American Athletic Conference Second Team as a kick returner on Nov. 30. The second team. Even though he was seventh nationally with 644 return yards (on just 19 returns) and led the entire country with three kick return touchdowns. The person in front of him, Houston’s Marcus Jones, certainly had a good season, but he had 226 fewer return yards and one fewer touchdown. Every day I get a little less impressed with PFF’s analytics, and failing to put Battie on the All-AAC First Team is another sign that analytics are good for less than statisticians claim. I mean, it doesn’t take a data scientist to figure this one out, does it?

The Sarasota High girls soccer team is on quite the tear to start its season. The Sailors have started their season 6-0, outscoring opponents 19-4 in the process. It’s even more impressive when you realize that the Sailors went 6-7-1 in 2020. Quite the impressive turnaround for Sarasota.

Offensively, the team is being led

by junior Michelle Prieto-Sanchez, freshman Franki Magnotti and senior Presley Gaberseck, each of whom has four goals on the year, according to MaxPreps. Magnotti also leads the team with four assists. And I’d be remiss not to mention sophomore Summer Proctor, who has played the majority of minutes in goal and holds a 1.6 goals against average.

(The defense in general also deserved a lot of credit, but that’s harder to give individually.) I’m excited to see if the Sailors can keep up their torrid pace as the season progresses. A 5 p.m. home game against Cardinal Mooney High on Dec. 8 should be a fun one.

The Riverview High boys soccer team has also started out with a flash of fire. The Rams are 7-0-1 through eight games, though these positive results are less of a surprise; Riverview went 17-5 in 2020 and reached the regional tournament. Surprising or not, the start is still impressive, especially on defense. Amazingly, the Rams have allowed just one goal this season, in a 1-1 tie against Manatee High. Their biggest test yet comes Thursday night, however, in the form of district rival Lakewood Ranch High. The Mustangs had a down year in 2020 but appear to be back to peak form in 2021, coming in with a 5-0 record of their own. If the Rams can shut them down, that will be a sign of something special.

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

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Join us for a Fun

DIY CLASS!

Caroline King

Must RSVP Limited Space Available

Caroline King is a senior on the Riverview High girls basketball team.

King scored 14 points and grabbed six rebounds Nov. 30 in the Rams’ 53-50 home overtime win against Brooks DeBartolo High.

Holiday

When did you start playing basketball?

I started playing basketball in second grade. My family is a huge basketball family. Everyone played the sport.

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What is the appeal to you?

I love the competition and playing with my teammates, the camaraderie you get. I have always only played basketball. It’s just my sport.

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What is your best skill?

I really like passing and making moves down in the post. Those are things that have come naturally but that I have also worked to improve over the years.

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What have you been working to improve recently?

I have been working on finishing through contact near the basket.

Just going up and hitting the defender and scoring anyway.

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If you would like to make a recommendation for the Sarasota Observer’s Athlete of the Week feature, send it to Ryan Kohn at RKohn@ YourObserver.com.

What is your favorite food?

Brussels sprouts. They are the key to my heart.

What is the best thing you’ve watched recently?

I watched “Home Alone 2” yesterday (Monday), and I just love that movie.

It gets me in the Christmas spirit.

Which superpower would you pick?

I would want to be able to fly so I could easily go wherever I wanted.

What are your hobbies?

I’m involved with my church (Abundant Life) and with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes group at school.

I also love to work out and go to the beach with my friends.

What is the best advice you have received?

This is cliche, but it’s that hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard.

Finish this sentence: “Caroline King is …”

Optimistic. I’m always happy, and I love to bring up the energy and excite people.

What is your favorite memory?

Winning our district championship last year (43-17 against Newsome High) was special for us. We had worked so hard all year, through COVID-19 and everything, doing Zoom workouts online every single day.

Working together the entire time and finally being able to do something like that was really cool. And we expect to do it again this season.

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YOUR NEIGHBORS Santa returns to Siesta parade

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hrongs of visitors to Siesta Key gathered on Ocean Boulevard for the return of the Siesta Key Holiday Parade on Nov. 27.

The parade — led by Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce staff and volunteers — featured local businesses and groups marching from Avenida del Mare through the Village on Ocean Boulevard with all the Christmas cheer one could want.

Candy was tossed to families from parade cars while other parade participants dressed up in classic Christmas characters.

The night was also notable in that the village’s Christmas tree was lit for visitors to admire and take photos beside. The Pine View Jazz Band was also on hand to play Christmas tunes.

Santa Claus himself finished the parade and rode into the Siesta Key Village to applause and cheers from the assembled crowd.

Harper and Avery Hoover stay warm.

Photos by Harry Sayer

Above: Santa Claus waves to enormous cheers and applause.

Left: Olga, Emma and Rich Pazik dress for chilly air.

— HARRY SAYER

Above: Madison Barrett, Gabe Constanzo and Iliana Tice dress alike.

Right: Groups decorated trailered boats in cheery Christmas stylings.

‘‘ Carla Geiser and Patricia Romig in elfwear

The Grinch himself joined the parade.

Mike, Andrea and Aaron Prytulak are all smiles while at the parade.

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SARASOTA OBSERVER

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2022 SARASOTA POLO SEASON. Venice’s Karen Bray ran the 5K with her goldendoodle, Newton.

“It just a nice way to start off Thanksgiving,” she said. “And it makes you feel less KETS AND MORE INFORMATION guilty about what you eat.”

T SAR ASOTAPOLO.COM Sarasota’s Katie Reynolds, the top female runner at 18:30, said she loves the LUB | 8201 POLO CLUB L ANE | L AKEWOOD R ANCH, FL 34240 SAR ASOTA POLO CLUB | 8201 POLO CLUB L ANE | L AKEWOOD R ANCH, FL 34240 event because it is a family-friendly race.

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Newton, a 3-year-old goldendoodle, joins owner Karen Bray of Venice in running the Florida Turkey Trot 5K.

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Above: Heather McFarland wears a turkey on her head during the 5K. She says it was “an added obstacle.”

Left: Sarasota 8-year-old Catalina Poole meets Troy the Turkey (Kaden Bowles of Sarasota) at the Florida Turkey Trot.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2021

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Help Every Child Have a Chance to Thrive “I believe that every child has a chance,” says Jacqueline House, Director of Philanthropy for Safe Children Coalition.

“Our major goal is really to keep all children in our community from being abused, neglected or abandoned,” adds CEO Brena Slater.

The nonprofit is unique in that it takes a holistic approach to caring for the children of Sarasota, Manatee and DeSoto counties, collaborating with several local organizations, including the sheriff’s offices, to look after the whole child.

“We’ve put a lot of effort into working with our community partners,” Slater says. “We make sure we have a team of people to wrap support around those families.”

To serve their mission, Safe Children Coalition has developed a variety of programs that touch every aspect of children’s lives and those of their guardians, whether they’re relatives, foster parents, or biological parents.

These programs run the gamut from prevention services like their youth shelter to in-home and out-of-home case management including adoption.

In fiscal year 2021, they helped nearly 8,000 kids through several programs.

While reunification with a child’s family is Safe Children Coalition’s ultimate goal when the child has to be removed from the home, foster care and adoption play a large role in what the organization does.

“Some of our favorite adoptions are our teens,” Slater says.

Recently, a young man who had a lot of issues was placed in a foster home

by Safe Children Coalition. In the few months since he joined the family, his attitude and behavior greatly

File photo

BEST BET

improved, and he has become open to being adopted.

SATURDAY, DEC. 4

SARASOTA HOLIDAY PARADE 7 p.m. at Main Street. The holiday parade celebrates 25 years with a “Silver Bells” theme and will have countless supporters and vendors marching down Main Street to bring some holiday cheer. Free. For information, email Admin@ SarasotaHolidayParade.com.

Many teens in foster care are fearful.

“They don’t want to be rejected again,” Slater says. The young man’s foster family, who hadn’t considered adoption previously, also expressed interest in permanently becoming his parents, making the situation a remarkable success all around, thanks to the work of Safe Children Coalition.

FRIDAY, DEC. 3

HANDS ON HANUKKAH 4 p.m. through Dec. 5 at University Town Center, 120 University Town Drive. Temple Sinai hosts nightly games, activities and candle-lighting at UTC. Free. For information, call 726-7732.

Last year there were nearly 1,700 children in foster and out-of-home care. Right now, there are 1,100 children in out-of- home care under the jurisdiction of Safe Children Coalition.

More foster homes are needed. Slater says factors like marital status, sexual orientation and age are not barriers to becoming a foster parent. In fact, she says empty-nesters have been some of their best foster parents.

SIESTA BEACH SEAFOOD AND MUSIC FESTIVAL Noon to 9 p.m. Dec. 3-5 at Siesta Key Pavilion, 948 Beach Road. The seafood fest returns with local restaurants, fresh seafood and plenty of music. Free. For information, go to ParagonArtEvents.com.

Another program, HIPPY (Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters), focuses on getting 2to 5-year-olds ready for school by educating them and their parents or guardians in the home. Currently all home visitors are former HIPPY participants. A previous home visitor was a formerly illiterate-turnedcollege-graduate mother whose life and those of her children were forever changed by the program. She also convinced her neighborhood’s parents to enroll in HIPPY.

HOLIDAY NIGHT ON ST. ARMANDS 5:30 p.m. at St. Armands Circle, 431 St. Armands Circle. St. Armands kicks off the holiday season with a singalong, a visit from Santa Claus and a special tree-lighting ceremony.

Free. For information, go to SarasotaFL.gov.

FRESH FRIDAY 8 p.m. at Lemon Avenue and State Street. Sarasota’s monthly Fresh

It’s a perfect depiction of one of House’s goals - to help the community rally around our children. “We all have a responsibility to care and support them because it makes our lives better,” House says.

Friday series continues with a holiday event that will have live music and plenty of cheer in downtown Sarasota. Free.

BIG CAT BASH 6 p.m. at Big Cat Habitat & Gulf Coast Sanctuary, 7101 Palmer Blvd.

The Big Cat event promises live music, food trucks, pony rides for kids and a whole mess of animals to benefit the habitat. Tickets $25. For information, call 371-6377.

SATURDAY, DEC. 4

JINGLE & JOG 5K 8 a.m. at The Haven, 4405 DeSoto Road. The annual 5K run/walk returns in person after a year away to benefit The Haven, which serves children and adults with disabilities. $35. For information, call 355-8808.

TUESDAY, DEC. 7

YOGA BY THE BAY WITH ERIN 5:30-6:30 p.m. at Bayfront Park, 5 Bayfront Drive. Erin Hurter leads a weekly yoga session. Free. Visit Facebook.com/YogaByTheBayWithErin.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2021

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

SARASOTA 525 Bird Key Drive 4 Beds 3 Baths 2,527 Sq. Ft. The Walter Group 941-232-2000 A4517683 $2,695,000

LONGBOAT KEY 435 L Ambiance Drive H702 2 Beds 3 Baths 2,385 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy, PA & Gail Wittig, LLC 941-961-8850 A4517748 $2,500,000

SARASOTA 650 Golden Gate Point 502 2 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,949 Sq. Ft. Douglas Parks 941-400-9087 A4515165 $1,775,000

SARASOTA 3501 Founders Club Drive 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,836 Sq. Ft. Richard Hearn 941-313-1591 A4497661 $1,700,000

HOLMES BEACH 4003 5th Avenue 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,200 Sq. Ft. Stacy Haas 941-587-4359 A4514159 $1,650,000

SIESTA KEY 1001 Point Of Rocks Road 412 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,370 Sq. Ft. Perry Corneau 941-650-4626 A4512199 $1,600,000

SIESTA KEY 1660 Summerhouse Lane 402 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,110 Sq. Ft. Anja Deichmann 941-284-7987 A4517373 $1,600,000

SIESTA KEY 1001 Point Of Rocks Road 411 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,370 Sq. Ft. Joanna Benante & Ann Martin 941-356-7717 A4517478 $1,575,000

SIESTA KEY 4910 Commonwealth Drive 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,210 Sq. Ft. Barbara Dumbaugh & Victoria Lear 941-951-6660 A4512691 $1,500,000

SARASOTA 1520 Ridgewood Lane 4 Beds 3 Baths 3,437 Sq. Ft. Stacy Liljeberg & John Garmong 941-544-6103 A4514956 $1,499,000

UNIVERSITY PARK 7003 Lancaster Court 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,439 Sq. Ft. Robert Krasow 617-840-1181 A4515333 $1,400,000

SIESTA KEY 5533 Cape Aqua Drive 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,302 Sq. Ft. Brian Loebker 941-735-4393 A4517797 $1,395,000

BRADENTON 6810 190th Street E 5 Beds 4 Baths 3,637 Sq. Ft. Leslie Emery & Aaron Corr 941-400-9710 A4508469 $1,299,000

SARASOTA 2203 Hillview Street 3 Beds 2 Baths 2,246 Sq. Ft. Tim Koons-McGee 941-320-7073 A4517377 $1,250,000

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

LAKEWOOD RANCH 7718 Hazeltine Glen 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,802 Sq. Ft. Kaitlin Kuhn 941-400-7861 A4517441 $975,000

SARASOTA 4530 Murcia Boulevard 14 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 3,187 Sq. Ft. Mina Johnson 941-404-9347 A4512618 $879,000

PARRISH 3911 Twin Rivers Trail 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,557 Sq. Ft. Cheryl Roberts 941-266-1450 A4510445 $865,000

SARASOTA 1750 Benjamin Franklin Drive 9E 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,548 Sq. Ft. Linda Thompson 941-400-0805 A4517532 $750,000

BRADENTON 5132 96th Street E 3 Beds 2 Baths 2,604 Sq. Ft. Mackenzie Longueuil & Pat Mudgett 941-961-4023 A4517811 $749,900

LAKEWOOD RANCH 7324 Lake Forest Glen 3 Beds 2 Baths 2,228 Sq. Ft. Joanna Benante & Ann Martin 941-356-7717 A4512249 $749,000

SIESTA KEY 5600 Beach Way Drive 205 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,182 Sq. Ft. Stacy Hanan 941-266-0529 A4517767 $699,000

SIESTA KEY 6038 E Peppertree Way 224A 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,180 Sq. Ft. Harvey & Ethel Lovelace & Mina Johnson 941-586-7390 A4515375 $650,000

BRADENTON 222 147th Street NE 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,508 Sq. Ft. Gloria Bracciano 941-229-4000 A4517751 $650,000

VENICE 721 Granada Avenue 4 Beds 3 Baths 3,287 Sq. Ft. Margaret Kennedy 941-713-5000 A4511866 $2,950,000

SIESTA KEY 225 Little Pond Lane 5 Beds 4 Baths 3,200 Sq. Ft. Stacy Hanan 941-266-0529 A4517313 $2,900,000

SARASOTA 1660 Summerhouse Lane 503 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,400 Sq. Ft. Kevin Wiegand 941-350-7345 A4510014 $2,795,000

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM 357372-1

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SARASOTA OBSERVER

Home in Cherokee Park sells for $3.85 million

A

SARASOTA

THE GRANDE RIVIERA Susan Powers, trustee, and Daniel Powers, of La Grange, Illinois, sold the Unit 400A condominium at 420 Golden Gate Point to Nicholas and Danielle Gladding and Joann Desrosiers, of Sarasota, for $2.62 million.

Built in 2005, it has two bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,650 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.75 million in 2014.

TESSERA Sandra VanLangen, trustee, of Sarasota, sold her Unit 12 condominium at 500 S. Palm Ave. to David Joseph Womelsdorf and Joanne Womelsdorf, of Westfield, New Jersey, for $2.15 million. Built in 2000, it has three bedrooms, four-and-a-half baths and 3,315 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.15 million in 2011.

VUE Raymond and Tracey Clarke, of Richmond, Virginia, sold their Unit 706 condominium at 1155 N. Gulfstream Ave. to Argeris and Eloise Karabelas, of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, for $1.85 million.

Built in 2017, it has two bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 1,701 square feet of living area. It sold for $938,400 in 2017.

KANAYA Thomas Baker Jr., trustee, of Orchard Park, New York, sold the Unit 1103 condominium at 505 S. Orange Ave. to Carla Guarascio, trustee, of Sarasota, for $1.8 million. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths and 3,003 square feet of living area.

It sold for $1.25 million in 2016.

BURNS REALTY CO. James Lingley and Linda Sargent Lingley, of Framingham, Mas-

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

NOV. 15-19

Other top sales by area

RESEARCH EDITOR

home in Cherokee Park tops all transactions in this week’s real estate. Michael and Tina Lepore sold their home at 1758 Cherokee Drive to Barbara Collins, of Sarasota, for $3.85 million. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, four-andtwo-half baths, a pool and 5,279 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.85 million in 2012.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2021

SIESTA KEY

OSPREY

PALMER RANCH

NOKOMIS

Oyster Cove Beth Kaufman, of Marion, Ohio, sold the home at 1285 Oyster Cove Drive to Allison and Jason Daugherty, of Pittsburgh, for $3.7 million. Built in 1987, it has four bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 4,253 square feet of living area. It sold for $805,000 in 1995.

Palacio Richard Scovil and Karen Simpson, of Sarasota, sold their home at 4237 Palacio Drive to Natalie Mahler, of Denver, for $1.3 million. Built in 1994, it has four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and 3,098 square feet of living area. It sold for $401,000 in 2012.

Eric Garwood

sachusetts, sold two properties at 1723 Oak St. to James and Gabrielle Hart, of Los Angeles, for $1.64 million. The first property was built in 2004; it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,442 square feet of living area. The second property was built in 2004; it has one bedroom, one bath and 420 square feet of living area. They sold for $885,100 in 2008.

The home at 1758 Cherokee Drive was built in 2007 and features four bedrooms, four full baths, two half baths, a pool and more than 5,200 square feet of living space.

PLAZA AT FIVE POINTS RESIDENCES Fae Claire Beloff, of Erie, Colorado, sold the Unit 14H condominium at 50 Central Ave. to Jeffrey and Pamela McMillin, trustees, of Boca Grande, for $1.6 million. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, threeand-a-half baths and 2,273 square feet of living area.

LADUE LANE M. Lewis and Kay Hall, of Sarasota, sold two properties at 1410 Ladue Lane to John and Hallie Harkess, of Sarasota, for $1.35 million. The first property was built in 1971; it has four bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,570 square feet of living area.

The second property was built in 1971; it has one bedroom, one bath and 480 square feet of living area.

They sold for $457,000 in 1997.

CEDAR COVE ESTATES Randall Chumley and Ernest Murphy, of N. Venice, sold their home at 1961 Baywood Court to Jonathan Kamin and Angela Pace Kamin, of Pittsburgh, for $800,000. Built in 1978, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,376 square feet of living area. It sold for $328,900 in 2013.

MCCLELLAN PARK Castleco LLC sold the home at 1644 Blue Heron Drive to Michael and Tara Wamil, of Sarasota, for $765,000. Built in 1954, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,939 square feet of living area.

25

REAL ESTATE

ADAM HUGHES

|

Sunset Place John and Marcia Voorhees, trustees, of Sarasota, sold the home at 149 Puesta Del Sol to Jeffrey Gary, of Osprey, for $1.7 million. Built in 2000, it has four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and 4,615 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.48 million in 2005.

Casey Key Joann Marvin, trustee, and David Marvin, of Nokomis, sold the home at 1208 Casey Key Road to Lena Schlabach, of Millersburg, Ohio, for $2.1 million. Built in 1976, it has two bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,023 square feet of living area. It sold for $900,000 in 2013.

ONLINE See more transactions at YourObserver.com

In with the new 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

SALES GALLERY NOW OPEN

TOP BUILDING PERMIST These are the largest city of Sarasota and Sarasota County building permits issued for the week of Nov. 15-19, in order of dollar amounts.

Downtown St. Petersburg

CITY OF SARASOTA Address

Permit

Applicant

Amount

1929 10th St.

Addition

Justin Kaiser

1713 Alderman St.

Pool/Spa/Deck

Christina Meagher

2202 McClellan Parkway

Pool/Spa/Deck

Erin Cigich

$58,000

1363 Tangier Way

Pool/Deck

Sherill Sutton

$50,000

770 S. Palm Ave. #903

Remodel

Leonard Roessler

$49,000

1739 S. Orange Ave.

Pool/Deck

Phuc Letan Pham

$42,175

$152,000 $95,000

904 Boulevard of the Arts #2 Windows

Tina Lovin

$22,000

663 Corwood Drive

Re-roof

Isidro Lodi

$21,000

2115 Rose St.

Re-roof

Kevin Murk

$14,450

235 Cocoanut Ave. #110-B

Windows/Door

Lee De Geronimo

$14,384

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

MOVE IN FALL 2022

Downtown Sarasota

SARASOTA COUNTY Permit Applicant Amount

3973 Boca Pointe Drive

Renovations

Michael Bartoszek

7302 Jessie Harbor Drive

Renovations

Michael West

$86,000

340 Osprey Point Drive

Re-roof

Eugenio Erquiaga

$78,440

410 S. Casey Key Road

Remodel

Raymond Wersel

$75,101

3913 Casey Key Road

Addition

Jacqueline Sullivan

$70,000

4413 Ocean Beach

Pool/Spa

Daniel Grinstead

$65,000

225 Harbor House Drive

Pool/Spa

Nisso Larden

$60,000

608 S. Casey Key Road

Re-roof

Seri Bergold

$58,986

2464 Britannia Road

Alterations

Sky Trammell

$57,000

$175,000

#7302

Source: Sarasota County, city of Sarasota

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

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

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

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

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2021

EXPERIENCE the

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I have referred many patients to him.” — TAMMY D.

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“Dr. Armaghani is wonderful!! He is extremely knowledgeable & forthcoming in sharing his plan for your care. I highly recommend him!” —CYNTHIA F.

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Sarasota home prices reach record

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*CD Specials: $25,000 min balance. New money. Rates as of 11.1.21. This is a limited time offer and subject to change.

APY=Annual Percentage Yield. Penalty for early withdrawal. **Free Checking: Your account must meet specific qualification criteria to earn the interest rate(s) disclosed above. To earn the rewards rate, your Big Interest Checking account must i) be enrolled in our electronic statement delivery product (eStatements); and ii) must have completed 12 debit card transactions (excluding ATM transactions) each monthly statement cycle using the Debit Card(s) linked to this account. When the qualifications above are met during a monthly qualification cycle, (1) Checking balances up to $25,000 receive an Annual Percentage Yield or APY of 1.00%, and balances of over $25,000 earn 0.50% APY on the portion of balance over $25,000. (2) When Big Interest Checking account qualifications are not met, all balances in the account earn 0.05% APY. Rates are effective 11.1.21 and are subject to change without notice.

End: Gulfstream Ave.

S A R A S O TA

DOWNTOWN ASSOCIATION

21 YEARS OF BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS FOR LIFE Lin and Maurice personify professionalism and integrity.

Their philosophy of exceptional client service and “Relationships for Life” assures each relationship lasts far beyond the transaction process. #1 TEAM FOR THE SIESTA KEY OFFICE $1.12 BILLION IN SALES VOLUME 2021 RECIPIENT OF THE FOUNDERS AWARD SECOND-TIME RECIPIENT OF THE JOHN MCMAHON AWARD FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT AWARD RECIPIENTS FOR 13 CONSECUTIVE YEARS PERSONALIZED CLIENT SERVICES TARGETED & SUCCESSFUL MARKETING PASSIONATE MARKET KNOWLEDGE KEEN INTERNATIONAL EXPERTISE REFINED NEGOTIATING SKILLS

Maurice Menager REALTOR ®

941.238.8119

Lin Dunn

REALTOR ®, SRES, LSS, LSE

941.809.2154

369392-1

TeamDunn.michaelsaunders.com

Receive a free home valuation to begin your real estate journey with us.

5100 Ocean Blvd | Sarasota, FL 34242 | 941.349.3444

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER

SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2021

The Observer’s

October median prices by metro area, with yearover-year change:

Weather

LOCATION MEDIAN CHANGE $650,000 +16.0% Naples-Marco Island Miami-Fort Lauderdale-WPB $494,000 +16.4% North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton $415,389 +18.1% Crestview-Fort Walton-Destin $399,900 +13.0% Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford $375,000 +20.3% Cape Coral-Fort Myers $368,000 +21.0% Port St. Lucie $350,000 +22.8% Tampa-St. Pete-Clearwater $348,000 +22.1% Jacksonville $342,655 +18.2% The Villages $332,000 +11.0%

&Nature

2021-22 PHOTO CONTEST

SUBMIT YOUR PHOTO TODAY!

CONDOS AND TOWN HOMES

October median prices by metro area, with yearover-year change: LOCATION MEDIAN CHANGE Crestview-Fort Walton-Destin $500,000 +28.5% Naples-Marco Island $375,000 +25.0% $355,000 +10.9% Panama City Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent $347,000 +1.2% North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton $ 302,900 +16.5% The Villages $283,000 +29.8% Cape Coral-Fort Myers $275,050 +25.9% Miami-Fort Lauderdale-WPB $269,000 +19.6% Punta Gorda $252,200 +24.2% Melbourne-Palm Bay $249,450 +17.1% Source: Florida Realtors

Diane Suner Lido Key Beach

“In 2020, Florida’s housing market had perhaps the best second half of any year in recent memory,” said Erica Plemmons, Florida Realtors’ economist and director of housing statistics. “Part of this was due to the shifting spring buying season: The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic pushed a lot of sales that would have occurred in spring back into the late summer and fall. But other factors were at play as well, including record-low mortgage rates, changes in consumers’ housing preferences and the demand pressure from continued movement of millennials into their prime home-buying years.”

The average interest rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage averages 3.07% in October statewide, up from 2.83% a year ago.

YOUR PHOTO submission could win

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$

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Submit your photos of spectacular local weather and nature displays.

KITCHEN | CABINETRY OUTDOOR PAVERS

349265-1

Median single-family home prices in October reached above $400,000 in just three metropolitan areas in Florida: Naples-Marco Island ($650,000), Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach ($494,000) and Bradenton-Sarasota-North Port ($415,389). In terms of condominium sales in October, the median price in Sarasota-Manatee ($302,900) was the state’s fifth highest.

Continuing to drive ever-higher prices are historically low inventories of properties for sale and speedy sales once they reach the market.

In Sarasota County, the median price for a single-family home rose to $410,000 while time to contract fell more than 66% to seven days. In Manatee, the October median price rose to $425,000 while the time to contract fell to six days.

Across the two-county area, closed sales were down, a reflection of the smaller-than-normal inventory. Agents in Sarasota and Manatee counties represented a total of 2,037 sales in October, a 15.5% decrease from October 2020.

According to the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee, single-family home sales in Sarasota County decreased by 15.2% to 788 sales while Manatee County singlefamily sales decreased by 12.3% to 672 sales. Condo closed sales decreased by 24.6% to 319 sales in Sarasota,and decreased by 11.6% to 258 sales in Manatee.

Expect little change in the new year, said Alex Krumm, the president of the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee, in a prepared statement.

“Buyers should be prepared to be patient,” he said. “Competition will be fierce for the foreseeable future, and there isn’t a market correction around the corner. Buyers who have already taken advantage of this market are being rewarded handsomely, and we expect those rewards will keep on coming through the first part of the year.”

Florida as a whole is experiencing a similar market.

Across Florida in October, median prices were up 17.7% to $358,950, according to Florida Realtors, which collects data from local real estate organizations. The median price for condos or town homes was $260,000, up 17.6%.

|

Go to Yourobserver.com/contests for details.

Your home has never been worth more

1

NEW

SOLD

The Florida Gulf Coast Luxury Leader

No.

Siesta Key’s Top Selling REALTOR*

SELLER | $2.25M | ABOVE LIST

2

405 BEACH RD | $4.25M

SOLD

PENDING

No. No.

5 DAYS | BUYER + SELLER | $1.249M

4

REAL Trends Small Team

by Sales Volume in Sarasota*

2 DAYS | 5628 CAPE LEYTE DR | $1.5M

SOLD

SOLD

9 DAYS | SELLER | $1.565M | ABOVE LIST

Sotheby’s International Realty® Affiliate in The World*

Our 2021 Sarasota-Manatee Market Update at jb.media/2021Q3

2 DAYS | 659 TROPICAL CIR | $1.4M

*Numbers and ranking based on MLS data, Premier Sotheby’s International Realty reporting and REAL Trends 2020 data as of 9/30/2021.

Who you work with matters ®

SIESTA KEY’S TOP SELLING REALTOR SINCE 2005 23 Years Selling Sarasota’s Luxury Real Estate $125 Million Pending & Sold in 2021

941.928.3424 | judie.berger@premiersir.com | www.homesofsarasota.com | Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

369283-1

Ranked in the Top 1.5% in the USA | #58 in Florida out of 200,000+ Realtors

27

28

WEATHER

SARASOTA OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2021

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

FORECAST THURSDAY, DEC. 2 High: 78 Low: 50 Chance of rain: 7%

FRIDAY, DEC. 3 High: 78 Low: 51 Chance of rain: 7%

SUNRISE / SUNSET

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, Dec. 2 7:02a 5:34p Friday, Dec. 3

7:03a

5:34p

Saturday, Dec. 4

7:04a

5:35p

Sunday, Dec. 5

7:04a

5:35p

Monday, Dec. 6

7:05a

5:35p

Tuesday, Dec. 7

7:06a

5:35p

Wednesday, Dec. 8

7:06a

5:35p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, DEC. 4 High: 78 Low: 56 Chance of rain: 7%

SUNDAY, DEC. 5 High: 82 Low: 60 Chance of rain: 8%

Darlene Edelman captured this photo of a fall sunset in University Park.

Dec. 26 Last

Jan. 2 New

Jan. 9 First

Jan. 17 Full

RAINFALL Monday, Nov. 22

0

Tuesday, Nov. 23

0

Wednesday, Nov. 24

0

Thursday, Nov. 25

0

Friday, Nov. 26

0

Saturday, Nov. 27

0

Sunday, Nov. 28

0

*Rainfall totals from Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport

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

YEAR TO DATE: 2021 45.79 in.

2020 55.49 in.

MONTH TO DATE: 2021 0.00 in.

2020 0.00 in.

MANASOTA FLOORING INC 941.493.7441 | www.manasotaonline.com

crossword OUT OF SORTS by Gary Larson. Edited by David Steinberg

©2021 Universal Uclick

ACROSS

1 Soft, bland food 4 They’re usually closed before a bar closes 8 Word before “dust” or “rush” 12 Take from the top 16 “Skylanding” sculptor Yoko 17 Balm ingredient 18 Plains tribe 20 Wearies (of) 22 “Eww!” 23 Lopsided victory at a swim meet?

27 Submarine sandwich 29 Wrath 30 Tear roughly 31 What women do at a huge debutante ball?

349248-1

941.748.4679 | Venice

54 Eaten up 124 “Stop right there!”

125 Enjoy caviar, perhaps 56 Legendary Himalayan beast 126 Put the kibosh on 60 Didn’t discard 61 Luggage attachment DOWN 62 Scottish skirts 1 Paste in Pukalani 63 Spheres 2 Fish in Caesar salad 64 Skewered Indonesian recipes dish 3 Mobile game whose 65 Apple product on a players catch creatures desk 4 Not allowed 66 Twosome 5 Everyone 67 Gumbo vegetable 6 “You stink!”

72 Stan’s partner in 7 Attach a zipper, e.g. comedy 8 Squashes and pump73 Habitual thief, briefly kins 74 Fish that are transpar9 Animal that sleeps in ent at birth a raft 75 Pose a question 10 British bathroom 76 Little devils 11 Absolutely, informally 81 Reassure 12 One of 12, in recovery 82 Was in battle 13 New Zealander 84 Sweetie 14 Tehran’s land 86 Full of green plants 15 Courage to keep going 87 Vogue alternative 19 ___ throat 88 Guinness of “Star 21 Waste conduit Wars” 24 Sounds from sows 89 Reckless 25 “You stink!”

91 Kind of instinct 26 Optimistic 92 Flexible 28 Cartoon chihuahua 94 Snaillike 31 Uber rivals 95 ___ noir 32 Noodle thicker than 37 Guitarist Paul batting cage?

97 Very dry, as cham96 Vacation with stops at soba pagne 38 Makeup maker 65 Nasdaq launches many parks 33 Train whistle’s sound 97 Ink stain 99 Grocery store section 39 Socially awkward 68 Menu for Cut and 34 Vexes 100 Sounds from ewes people Paste 98 Snorkeling spots 35 Most senior 40 Balm targets 69 Certainly not well-done 101 Actress Tyler 99 In addition 41 Each partner, at times? 70 Pay for a poker hand 102 Enable a purse to hold 36 Through, on an itiner- 100 Fella ary more items?

43 Storage container 71 Steal some kisses?

103 ___ further notice 41 Lauder of cosmetics 105 Stealthy way to walk 44 Oddballs 77 Broadcast 104 Starbucks serving 42 Compete 109 Math degree?

45 Hand-holding at a club, 78 Future J.D.’s hurdle 106 Mazelike furniture 44 Didn’t discard 110 Help illegally e.g., briefly 79 Smaller quantity store 45 ___ platter (Hawaiian 107 Left at sea?

111 Exercise routine 46 Greek letter within 80 Catholic rite tray of food) geared toward star “epsilon” 83 Seafood delicacies 108 Backside 46 Created a crossword 112 “Impressive!” athletes?

47 Portions dipped in butter sauce theme, say 117 Afflict 49 Regret 85 Moose’s relative 113 Part of a cell nucleus 48 En ___ (as a group) 119 Levels in a stadium 50 Frying in a little fat 86 2020 or 2024 114 Spoiled 49 Brazilian city by the 120 Sotomayor of the 55 Daytime TV drama 90 Rite ___ 115 Lilly of pharmaceusea, for short 56 Nervousness while 91 What knows the ways Supreme Court ticals 50 Yemen’s capital 121 Touched down putting, in golf of the world? (Abbr.)

116 Lust or pride 51 Oak nut 122 Shipwrecked sailor’s 57 What Clearasil targets 92 Quiet interludes 118 Psychedelic synthe52 Tech startup’s image? sized in 1938 signal 58 Company VIP 93 Bygone carrier 53 Colorful salamander 123 Off the beaten ___ 59 Miss three times in the 94 Wild shopping trip

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.

“ALLV ZU RLC Z HPMFAK DZMIAK DZM TLUR IKGW ZMI IKGPMK URK IZOVMKHH.” – ZMMK GOZMV “WUG BDTO GX AUKO VDWA DSV COOZ GEZW. ... M DJJOXL LIDL M’K SUL XONCOJL DSV ML’A UT -- M JDS ALDNL UHON DEDMS LUKUNNUB.” – TDZOW JGUJU “E’OS NSVLUSK WGLYIXGYIW TF BYILUSF WGVW CSLJSMWEYU EZ WGS SUSTF YJ XLSVWUSZZ.”

– BVUSNNS TYUVS Puzzle Three Clue: M equals C

941.355.8437 | Bradenton

Puzzle Two Clue H equals V

Sarasota

KITCHENS, BATHROOMS, BEDROOMS & MORE

Puzzle One Clue C equals W

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

12-2-21

Made for where you live. Here!

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2021

RED PAGES INFORMATION & RATES: 386-447-9723

Adult Care Services

redpages@palmcoastobserver.com palmcoastobserver.com/redpages

Landscaping/ Lawn Services 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

Help Wanted

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

Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

UNITED GROUND EXPRESS, A SUBSIDIARY OF UNITED AIRLINES, HOSTING HIRING EVENT AT SARASOTA BRADENTON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Items Under $200 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 Faberware 12-36 coffee urn $25, Kitchenaid mixer with attachments $35, Cuisinart deluxe food processor $50. 941-926-2764 WHIRLPOOL DRYER, works great. $50 (941)374-5954

Merchandise Wanted SENIOR LOOKING to purchase precious metals, diamonds, time pieces, coins, jewelry, antique and estate jewelry, and collectors plates. Personal and confidential. Please call Marc: 941-321-0707.

CHICAGO, IL -- United Ground Express (UGE), a subsidiary of United Airlines, is holding a hiring at Sarasota Bradenton International Airport from 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM ET on Tuesday December 7, 2021.

jobs

stuff

Fly anywhere in the world aboard United Airlines with flight privileges for you and your family

Help Wanted CDL-A DRIVERS: Hiring Events for Seasonal/Local Positions! $2,000 Sign on Bonus!

11/19; Chamber of Commerce 222 East Oak Street in Arcadia, FL 11/23; Oakley Groves Office 15455 Orange Avenue in Fort Pierce, FL. Walk-Ins Welcome from 10am-4pm.$1200-$1300/wk, Home Often, Great Health Benefits.

Must have 6 mos. tractor trailer exp. in last 3 years. Call for More Info. 877-938-9555

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

15% DISCOUNT FOR 4-WEEK RUN Color background: $ 5 per week Ad border: as low as $3 per week PLACE YOUR AD: Call: 941-955-4888 Fax: 941-362-4808

auto

Email: RedPages@YourObserver.com Online: YourObserver.com/Red Pages

Autos Wanted CASH FOR YOUR CAR We come to you!

Ho Ho Buys cars.

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

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Over 50 part-time opportunities for customer service and ramp agents available and all employees receive flight privileges aboard United Airlines amazing global network and a $1500 signon bonus.

“Winter is approaching and travelers are returning to the Sun Coast in greater numbers so our team at Sarasota Bradenton International Airport is growing to serve them,” said Jay Jernstrom, Senior Manager of Talent Acquisition at United Ground Express. “As our rapid growth continues, we are excited to offer a runway to success for hundreds of people nationwide. Career advancement, paid time off, and flight privileges paired with our inclusive culture makes United Ground Express a great place to work and a great way to travel.”

All opportunities include paid training, paid time off, flight privileges, and more.

Flight privileges on day one Enjoy your time off work by traveling the world aboard United Airlines’ global network. Employees and their family members are eligible for free standby travel and discounted tickets to explore the world beyond the airport.

Applicants are encouraged to apply online at www.unitedgroundexpress.com About United Ground Express United Ground Express (UGE) is focused on connections – connecting customers to their destinations, to people, and to the moments that matter most. As a subsidiary of United Airlines, the United Ground Express team supports operations and flights across the U.S., welcoming and serving customers each day. UGE provides an array of airport operations services that include Customer Service, Ramp Service, Passenger Assistance, Lobby Assistance, Cabin Appearance, and More.

United Ground Express is an Equal Opportunity Employer, our diverse employees of all backgrounds and experiences are our most valuable asset.

Follow us on Instagram @UnitedGroundExpress

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE! GOLF HOLE official wanted.

Watch golf, part-time work, make money, have fun! For more information, call Matt: 908-635-1897.

SELL YOUR STUFF FAST!

GARAGE SALE

Like us on Facebook facebook.com/UnitedGround

SELL YOUR STUFF HERE!

Advertise as low as $17.50 per week!

941-955-4888

CALL 941-955-4888

PLACE YOUR AD ONLINE: YourObserver.com/RedPages

YourObserver.com/RedPages

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

REAL LOCAL STUFF HERE!

YourObserver.com/RedPages

Homes for Sale

Perfect Solutions For Seniors *Caregivers/Companions *Personal Care * CNA’s/HHA’s

* Assistance with Daily Living Activities * Hourly 24/7 Care -Affordable Rates * Licensed/ Bonded/ Insured

Phone (941) 809-1438 HHA# 299994819

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

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

Cleaning

Luxurious Lake Club 4 Bed 4 Bath Built in 2019 Lakefront Lakewood Ranch $2,500,000

BRAZILIAN CLEANING Service

by Maria. Residential. Meticulous Cleaning. Excellent References.

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Sorrento Shores Waterfront 3 Bed 2 Bath Fantastic Views, New Dock $995,000

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Stroll to Siesta Key Beach 4 Bed 2 Bath Heated Pool, 2 Car Garage $799,000 Longboat Key Beach House: on Canal, 2BED-2BATH, Dock.

Owner/agent $530,000.

CLEANING BY Brazilian Lady.

Meticulous, reliable, deep cleaning specialist. Residential.

Commercial. New Construction.

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941-955-4888 YourObserver.com/RedPages

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

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Free estimates. 941-744-1020.

35+ years experience.

Pressure Cleaning PRESSURE WASHING Houses, mobile homes, pool/patio areas, fences, driveways. Small jobs OK. 30 yrs. experience here in Sarasota. Prompt & dependable.

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Tax Preparation EXPERIENCED TAX preparation, reasonable fees. Call for a quote.

800-278-7772 IRS AFSP Participants

This week’s Crossword answers

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 WM wants to buy home for sale by owner. Deposit and terms negotiable and according to the owner.

Contact Tom 678-755-3804 tomlarsen559@gmail.com

Adult Care Services PERSONAL CARE GIVER- Private care: Meal preparation, errands, shopping, and more.

Affordable hourly rates, available weekdays, weekends, and holidays.

Minimal shift 5 hours can also provide overnight care.

Temporary or long term care.

Over 10+ years experience.

References available. No new faces, one consistent caregiver.

COVID Negative.

Call Kati: 941-536-7706.

©2021 Universal Uclick

You’re only cheating yourself.

Autos Wanted

FIND BUYERS AND SELLERS HERE!

peekers’ place

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.

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

home services

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

real estate

DEADLINES: Classifieds - Monday at Noon

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “Look at how a single candle can both defy and define the darkness.”

Anne Frank Puzzle Two Solution: “You wake up some days and feel ugly. ...

I accept that I’m not perfect and it’s OK -- I can start over again tomorrow.”

Kaley Cuoco Puzzle Three Solution: “I’ve learned throughout my journey that perfection is the enemy of greatness.”

Janelle Monae

This week’s Sudoku answers

©2021 NEA, Inc.

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2021

Aluminum

Beauty

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SERVING YOU IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME

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AMANDA

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|

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30

FREE PICKUP / DELIVERY • FREE ONSITE QUOTES

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STEVE PANEBIANCO H R S ome

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Trees

Manufacture and workmanship Warranties

Veteran Owned & Operated • Third Generation Master Plumber All Major Credit Cards Accepted Generalplumbingsarasota.com

941-923-8140

• Drain & Sewer Cleaning • Backflows Installation • Natural Gas Installations - Appliance Hook ups • Power Flush & Comfort Height Toilets • All Water Heaters - Tankless - Gas - Solar • All Major Plumbing Fixtures Repaired or Replaced • Garbage Disposals • New Water & Sewer Services • Dishwashers Installed • Wells & Pump Repairs

(941) 345-5264 368089

Complete Plumbing Services & Repairs Residential, New Construction and Commercial Serving the area since 1993 No Job Too BIG or Too SMALL. We DO IT ALL!

Licensed & Insured State Lic CFC056748

Power Washing Pressure Washing

Pressure Washing

Licensed & Insured

10 Years Experience

941-232-1192

368930

Email (SSETO@MYHST.COM) Call/Text 941-993-4137

Honesty, Integrity and Pride

Kitchen/Bath Remodeling

AFTER

Serving Sarasota/Manatee Area Since 2004

THE GRAB BAR GUY

941-544-1066

BEFORE

CREATE BUZZ!

368914

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

• Deck/Paver And Much More

www.setohealthgroup.com

Advertise your business or services in the Red Pages.

Call 941-955-4888 YourObserver.com/RedPages

| scaperotta@aol.com

Italian American Owned

Remodeling/Home Improvement McKnight Construction

GLENN KROECKER

Professional Craftmanship

Licensed & Insured

Remodel & Home Improvements

954-1878 (cell) 780-3346

Mike McKnight Professional Craftmanship on Carpentry, Cabinets, Plank Floors, All Trims and Moldings

SHOWER & BATH MAKEOVERS Cleaned - Regrouted - Caulked - Sealed

Free Estimates

Call John 941.377.2940

Sarasota and surrounding areas

Free Estimates • Sarasota Resident Since 1974

941~400~6786

368870

367637

Doors and more!

367688

368924

Also, Medicare and Company Group plans

specialty screens / screw replacement / paint

369078

• Aetna, Cigna or United Health Care plans • Nationwide PPO networks • Wide range of deductibles • 1 year, 2 years or 3 years terms (fixed rate) • Effective any day of the year • AFFORDABLE and comprehensive

941-345-5264

Plumbing

General Plumbing Services Inc.

Individual and Family Health Insurance

www.showerandbathsarasota.com Find anything in the RED PAGES | 941-955-4888

GROW

YOUR BUSINESS

Lawn Care

Advertise as low as $85 per week.

Curt’s Lawn Service

Free Estimates Lawn & Landscape Maintenance 368926

3687676-01

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

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

Serving South Sarasota Only including: Palmer Ranch – Osprey – Nokomis

Insurance

724-2945

941-626-3194

Licensed & Insured CCC - 058059 CBC - 1253936

Screening

(941) 966-2960

Serving the Palmer Ranch Area Since 2007 Licensed & Insured

368519

Melanie Gates

368513

by

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

Watching your home while you’re away

Lic. & Ins.

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

367717

Pet Care

PALMER RANCH HOMEWATCHERS®

www.PalmerRanchHomewatchers.com PalmerRanchHomewatchers@comcast.net

368929

Kenneth Fuhlman Inc.

Dave and Connie Grundy

CALL PINNACLE TODAY! 941-306-1999

Fully Insured

State Licensed Contractor #CCC057066

Call to reserve your ad space: 941-955-4888 YourObserver.com/RedPages

Windows Res./Com.

Lic./Ins.

indow & Pressure Clea W t e ni s Sun merly known as Sunrise Windo ng For

Serving Longboat Key Since 2005

25

UP TO

STANDARD WINDOWS

ws

140

$

INCLUDING SCREENS, TRACKS, MIRRORS & FANS

SPECIAL 00 5

$

senior citizen discount. www.sunsetwindowcleaningsrq.com

Purified water window cleaning available!!

Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES | 941- 284 - 5880

368514

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

38 Years Experience

368928

941-400-6786 Sarasota & Surrounding Areas

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.com

Insured

941-270-1561

Remodel & Home Improvements

Board Certified in the specialty of non-surgical spinal decompression

373-9299

“No Job Too Small”

Licensed

369076

GET YOUR LIFE BACK!

31

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2021

369079

Health

|

32

SARASOTA OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2021

Fulfilling Lifestyle Dreams

Re-Markable Real Estate

Increasing home values with exceptional marketing and negotiating know-how In today’s real estate market, the greatest expense for sellers is the money they don’t make — the money they leave on the table by forgoing the marketing and negotiating skills of a highly-savvy realtor. This year, the Peter G. Laughlin Group achieved outstanding results for Sarasota luxury home sellers with a valueadded plan for success that includes:

Siesta Key | Sold in 2021 at 97% of list price | $6,275,000

1. Consulting on ways to enhance home value to get top dollar.

2. Conducting a thorough and current market analysis to determine the best pricing strategy.

3. Providing picture-perfect photography, video and 3D tour.

3. Implementing a marketing plan for maximum exposure.

4. Negotiating the best contract.

5. Managing the transaction from contract to closing to keep the deal together and close on time.

View more outstanding results at: PGL.Group/Remarkable

Siesta Key | Sold in 2021 at 102% of list price | $4,072,000

East County | $12,500,000 Largest land sale of 2021 | 486 Acres

Myakka Valley Ranches | $2,750,000 Sold in 2021 at 98% of list price

St. Armands | $1,850,000 Sold in 2021 at 100% of list price

Downtown | $1,750,000 Sold in 2021 at 103% of list price

West of Trail | $1,675,000 Sold in 2021 at 102% of list price

Longboat Key | $1,650,000 Sold in 2021 at 105% of list price

Downtown | $1,225,000 Sold in 2021 at 102% of list price

Lido Key | $1,060,000 Sold in 2021 at 108% of list price

Complimentary Market Reports @ PGL.Group/Reports See monthly sales activity in your favorite Sarasota neighborhoods

Over 32 years in Sarasota Luxury Real Estate $1.2+ Billion in Closed Sales Ranked in the Top 1.5% in the Country Ranked #31 in Florida out of 200,000+ PGL.Group/AboveAndBeyond

DOWNTOWN

BIRD KEY

ST. ARMANDS-LIDO

NORTH SIESTA KEY

SOUTH SIESTA KEY

WEST OF TRAIL NORTH

WEST OF TRAIL SOUTH

SOUTH LONGBOAT KEY

Call today to talk about the many advantages of real estate now:

941.356.8428 PeterGLaughlin.com

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

369000-1

Peter G. Laughlin | Nancy Endara | Natalie Tanner | Andrew Tanner | Jennifer Engleman | Susan Garrabrant

WEST OF TRAIL

SOUTHSIDE VILLAGE

Holiday Stroll The Most Family Friendly Fun Time in Southside Village Friday, Dec. 10 • 5-9 p.m.

Pictures with Santa Music Compound’s annual Holiday Concert Treats & Activities for Kids of ALL ages!

Hot Cocoa & Castle Bouncy House Unbelievable Raffle Return of the Snow Slide!

Exhilarating Trampoline Adventurous Climbing Wall TO BENEFIT THANKS TO OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS Southside Village HOLIDAY STROLL

Friday, Dec 8 • 5-9 p.m.

PARKING AVAILABLE IN THE SOUTH PARKING GARAGE 0F SARASOTA MEMORIAL HOSPITAL AT 41 AND HILLVIEW ST.

SO U T H SI D E V I L L A G E . O RG

DEC. 8 The most Family Friendly, Fun time in Southside

Santa will be on site The Music Compound will host their Holiday Concert Free Treats and activities | Unbelievable Raffle

COFFRIN

JEWELERS Fabulous Snow Slide The Shoppe Worth Discovering

| Exhilarating Trampoline Adventurous Climbing Wall

Proceeds Benefit Girls Inc. of Sarasota County

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

L & S Partners

Inspire Collaborate Educate

SOUTHSIDEVILLAGE.ORG

DEBBI W OL F I N G ER , R EALT OR , R OSE B AY I N T ER N AT I ON AL R E KN I C KS TAV ER N & G R I L L | G EC KO’ S G R I L L & PU B M ORT ON ’ S G OU R M ET M AR KET G U L F C OAST C OM M U N I T Y F OU N D AT I ON DR. T OD D R EU T ER , D M D , M D , OR AL & I M PL AN T SU R G ERY BIT E SQU AD | JOD AT L AW G R OU P | C OF F R I N JEW L ER S

FREE Parking available in the South Parking Garage of Sarasota Memorial Hospital at 41 and Hillview St. LAW O F F IC E O F A N DREW RO SIN , PA | BLU H O M E C O F F RIN J EW ELERS | A F C URG EN T CA RE SA RA SOTA M EM O RIA L H O SPITA L