Sarasota/Siesta Key Observer 12.12.24

SARASOTA/SIESTA KEY

Observer

Full of hot air

PAGE 7B

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

VOLUME 20, NO. 44

YOUR TOWN

No rest for the newly retired Former city manager wants to continue to make a positive impact. SEE PAGE 3A

Ian Swaby

Manager Samantha Lemmer and employee Laurie Buckel

Generosity within the walls The dollar-bill décor that guests leave on the walls of Siesta Key Oyster Bar is taken down each year and typically given to charity.

This year, management saw the greatest need right at home, with the hurricanes having left employees out of work for nearly a month or longer, having impacted their homes.

The $14,000, which equals the highest past amount, will go to the 83 employees.

“It’s very meaningful and touching, it really is — and needed,” said employee Laurie Buckel. “We appreciate it so much because our guests are the ones who put the money on the walls ... so we’re grateful for everyone who walks through these doors.”

Ian Swaby

Scout Reid, 8, accepts Cupcake the goat, as she sits beside Wyatt Schmidt, 9, and Ashley Schmidt on the Big Cat Habitat float.

Courtesy image

Ryan Stanberry sells his chess boards.

Christmas Parade is The GOAT City’s annual spectacle wows crowd with floats, boats and goats. SEE PAGE 1B

King of crafts

Ryan Stanberry says he’s far from skilled at chess.

Yet his handmade chess board took first place in crafting and fiber arts in the Best of MakerPlace Awards in November.

MakerPlace by Michaels, with which Stanberry and his woodworking business Electric Llama Designs are involved, is the only marketplace dedicated to U.S. makers and artisans.

“Woodworking, to me, is just something that’s really made me personally fulfilled, and the company side of that is just an outlet so that I don’t have 70 projects sitting around my house … ” he said.

See him and his crafts at the Annual Holiday Psychic Fair and Vendor Market at The Crystal Cave on Dec. 13.

A+E

Cafe L’Europe: New year, new name

$1.00

Quarter-century of miracles INSIDE

File image

Cafe L’Europe is using its recovery from the hurricanes as an opportunity to reinvent itself.

The 51-year-old St. Armands restaurant is rebranding with a new name and concept. SEE PAGE 4A

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

WEEK OF DEC. 12, 2024

“We understand the point of a 12-foot floor at the front of the building where the actual stuff is happening, but for mechanical rooms and stuff in the back of the house it’s pretty absurd to do that.”

Bay Runner resumes South Lido route With continued recovery of Lido Beach, Sarasota’s Bay Runner trolley service to South Lido Key will resume Wednesday, Dec. 11, after being suspended since late September because of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

To accommodate the regular route, parking safety enforcement will resume along Benjamin Franklin Drive from Lido Beach Pavilion to South Lido Key. The enforcement is necessary to keep Benjamin Franklin Drive clear of illegal parking and ensure the trolley is able to turn around at Ted Sperling Park.

Parking enforcement will continue to be suspended from St. Armands Circle to the Lido Beach Pavilion.

Bay Runner runs Sunday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Friday and Saturday, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Chris Gallagher of Hoyt Architects. Read more on page 10A

BY THE NUMBERS 31

Years former City Manager Marlon Brown has worked in local government in Florida.

PAGE 3A

125

Hotel rooms planned for a new Tempo Hotel by Hilton on the 1500 block of Fruitville Road.

PAGE 10A

Michael Saunders joins Forbes network

80

The age of Melva Hipps, who has performed in all 50 of the Singing Christmas Tree Spectacular shows.

PAGE 4B

CALENDAR

n Sarasota County Commission strategic planning retreat — 8:30 a.m., Friday, Dec. 13, Nathan Benderson Park Finish Tower, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle.

Andrew Warfield

The Main Street Complete Street will transform Main Street from U.S. 41 to School Avenue.

Main Street vision will be revealed Dec. 17 T

o introduce the draft concepts for the Main Street Complete Streets visioning project, the city of Sarasota will hold a community meeting at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 17, at the Selby Public Library at 1331 First St. The meeting will be an open house format. Attendees will have the opportunity to view the draft concepts, provide feedback and talk with the project team.

The concepts were created based on public engagement sessions in spring 2024, including a visioning workshop, open house,

one-on-one conversations with merchants and an online survey with more than 1,500 responses.

Initial survey feedback indicated the top five priorities for Main Street should be additional outdoor dining and shopping spaces; lush landscaping; attractive, inviting public spaces; enhanced lighting; and additional shade.

The project will transform Main Street between U.S. 41 and School Avenue into a vibrant, more attractive corridor fostering improved safety for walking,

cycling and driving, according to a news release.

“Residents, business owners and visitors can help shape the look, feel and functionality of Main Street by participating in the visioning phase,” said Chief Transportation Planner Alvimarie Corales in the release.

In addition to the public meeting, a brief online survey for input on priorities and visual preferences for Main Street is open through Friday, Dec. 20. The survey is available at Sarasotafl.gov/ MainStreetCompleteStreets.

A Sarasota-based real estate firm partnered with Forbes Global Properties, an exclusive network that supports independent agencies at the top of their markets. Michael Saunders & Co. made the official announcement that it was selected to be part of the Forbes network during a Dec. 4 event at the Sarasota Art Museum.

“At Michael Saunders & Company, we see the added value, prestige and credibility of network partners who are selective in choosing their members,” said founder and CEO Michael Saunders in a news release.

“Aligning with a globally recognized brand like Forbes Global Properties further enhances our global reach while providing additional access to a network of top-tier real estate firms worldwide.”

Forbes Global Properties markets itself as creating a “curated consumer marketplace” showcasing a “coveted collection of properties and the stories behind them” online.

Member firms are provided with a dedicated page on Forbes.com as well as editorial and social media content as well as analytics.

Forbes reports it has more than 100 million monthly visitors to its website from around the world.

433532-1

TABS

W HAT ’S HAPPENING

2A

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

Retired Sarasota City Manager Marlon Brown has waved goodbye to municipal government but not necessarily to local public policy influence.

MARLON BROWN’S SUCCESSOR ADVICE When Marlon Brown was asked what advice he would give to the next Sarasota city manager, he replied: “Number one, rely on the staff. Don’t be a micromanager, but do be a critical thinker. Look beyond what the solution may be; the long-term impact of some of the policy decisions that are being made. Be a city manager for all. Don’t be pigeonholed into trying to please one group. Listen to everything everyone has to say, including your elected officials, and be as helpful to them as you can be.

“Be creative in terms of your solutions.

Don’t fear ideas and don’t fear being fired because you’re doing the right thing.

There is not a Monday that I went in fearing that I’m going to be fired because of doing the right thing. That’s what I tried to impart on my department directors.

Don’t try to be a people pleaser by saying yes to something that is not the right decision.

“I don’t want them to replicate anything I’ve done, but be their own person and lead according to the things that they have brought through their own experiences.”

File photos

From stepping back to

stepping up

Marlon Brown has found his retirement home in Sarasota. The former city manager is now weighing how to influence public policy from the outside looking in.

ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER

S

itting table side in a coffee shop one block away from his former office, retired City Manager Marlon Brown is a world removed from Sarasota City Hall, all that is astride with managing a city with some 800 employees melting away like sugar in a steaming cup of fresh brewed coffee.

Shedding his workday suit, Brown appears relaxed while clad in shorts and a polo shirt, his fit, slender frame forged in part by both professional and personal stresses of the past year.

Those include the death of his exwife, a health scare of his own now behind him and a rigorous fitness regimen.

After 31 years working in local government, all of them in Florida and the last 15 in Sarasota, the 60-yearold Brown, whose next birthday is Jan. 1, is embracing this next phase of life, enthusiastic about the prospects of what he may do next.

For now, though, it’s all about him and his two sons Devon, who lives in Gainesville, and Matthew, who is preparing to pursue a master’s degree at Florida State University.

“I don’t know how to describe the feeling. It’s like an indescribable freedom that it is really hard to explain, but such a relief that someone really has to experience for themselves,” Brown said. “I wake up in the morning and I can walk six to nine miles some days if I don’t work out at the gym. What I’m realizing is there’s so much to do around the house, the things that you can find to do that were ignored for so long.”

He has no problem describing what he is not missing — a 24/7 obligation to the city.

“One of the things that I realized is not having two phones and not having to check that phone to see what emails have been coming in, getting the calls at two o’clock in the morning because of something that happened and people coming into the office first thing in the morning,” Brown said. “You fire up your computer and you look at all the emails that you have to respond to. It’s indescribable what I’m experiencing right now.”

As he takes his regular long walks throughout the city, Brown no longer feels compelled to observe and report anything he may see that needs addressed. That’s not a reflection of his newfound detachment, but rather in his confidence in the staff he has left behind.

DON’T LIKE A STRONG CITY MANAGER? CHANGE THE GOVERNMENT He’s been called an emperor, a dictator and a sixth commissioner by some who say Marlon Brown wielded too much power at City Hall. That power, though, lies in the city’s form of government.

Sarasota is a managercouncil form of government with what is known as a weak mayor. That’s a mayor who has no operational authority, but is largely ceremonial with no more voting power than any other city commissioner.

Several recent attempts to change Sarasota to a mayorcouncil form of government, in which an elected mayor is effectively the full-time chief executive, have failed.

Until that changes, the city manager will hold the power to implement, but not make, policy and to influence, but not dictate, that policy.

“We have a good government. We have a good organization. The quality of service in this community is so high that I know it will be taken care of and I don’t have to be one of those individuals who has to call the minute I see something wrong,” Brown said. “I know it will be taken care of.”

THE ‘SIXTH COMMISSIONER?’

Brown had 16 years of city and county government experience when he arrived in Sarasota as deputy city manager in 2009. He was named city manager in January 2021, replacing Tom Barwin at a tumultuous time when, in the midst of COVID-19, the City Commission accepted the resignations of Barwin, former Police Chief Bernadette DiPino and former Assistant City Manager John Lege.

City leadership was stabilized under Brown.

He brought Patrick Robinson from the Sarasota Police Department to serve as deputy city manager and promoted Jim Rieser to chief of police, who served in that role until 2022, when he resigned and was replaced by Rex Troche. Brown also eliminated the position of assistant city manager.

It also came when the city was

Among Marlon Brown’s key hires were Police Chief Rex Troche (center) and Deputy City Manager Patrick Robinson.

grappling with an affordable and workforce housing crisis — in part accelerated by the sudden influx of new residents fleeing northern lockdown states and driving up costs — as the city embarked on crafting solutions that met resistance from some residents concerned about overdevelopment resulting from the bonus density incentives.

Looking back, Brown said the pressures of this and other political decisions were incorrectly foisted upon himself and the staff, some resident activists portraying him as a “sixth commissioner” or a dictator.

“Because you’re on the losing side of a vote doesn’t mean that I have influenced the commission majority in terms of taking a position,” Brown said. “I may advocate for affordable housing. I may say this is something that’s good for the city, but I don’t get a vote. If someone who came up to the dais is incorrect about the facts, I may call somebody out because of that. Because I called you out doesn’t mean that I am trying to influence. I am not doing my job if I don’t correct the record.

“I’ll give my position, but at the end of the day, I will say you have to make an informed decision based on the facts given to you.”

A PUBLIC POLICY PERSONNA

A constant barrage from what Brown refers to as a “vocal minority” in the city was one factor in his retirement, although the timing did dovetail with his long-time career plans.

“I actually said when I started this I was only going to do 30 years,” Brown said.

As he approached his 31st year in the fall of 2023, Brown first had conversations with key staff about his impending departure. In spring of 2024, he informed the city commissioners of his intention to retire this year. Then in July he gave his requisite 60-day notice to the commissioners in writing.

“A lot of that had to do with what I was starting to see around myself in terms of my personal life, my exwife passing away, friends of mine not fulfilling their lifelong dreams,” Brown said. “So whether it’s more time with family, more time traveling, more time experiencing a different job, or the case might be a heart

attack or all sorts of physical and mental situations, I didn’t want to do that. The stress level of the job was getting to a point where my health was more important.”

When he retired became a matter of appropriate timing. He had considered leaving before the City Commission’s break in May, or July, once commissioners adopt the tentative millage rate, or on his anniversary date in July, or after the November election.

“I decided to just split the difference in between,” he said of his announcement.

In his wake he leaves in process two of the potentially highest-cost capital projects in the city’s history: The proposed Sarasota Performing Arts Center and a city-owned workforce housing apartment development across First Street from City Hall.

In the tradition of naming city assets after former city managers, perhaps the apartments will be named Marlon Brown Towers?

“I’ve never craved the spotlight,” Brown shrugged at that suggestion.

“I prefer to let the commissioners talk to the media. I let staff talk to media. If you look back over the years, you can see how many times I have done an interview. It is so rare compared to some city managers who crave that, so having my name affixed to a building, that’s something I don’t really think about.”

As for what is next on his professional agenda, wherever it leads him won’t take him out of Sarasota.

“I love this city,” he said. “I love the progress the city has made.”

He also loves public policy.

“I love the ingredients and the making of the stew,” he said. “I see myself somewhere in that role, whether it’s with a nonprofit or a nongovernment type of organization. Maybe consulting, but more in a public policy-type position. Maybe by the end of the end of December, I’ll start thinking about what role could be to really help the city.”

Help in what way?

“I want to help the city continue to progress to a place that people continue to enjoy, whether they live here, whether they work here, whether they recreate here, or whether they retire here.”

3A

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

IS CONCIERGE MEDICINE RIGHT FOR YOU?

Cafe L’Europe owner John Horne and his wife, Amanda, purchased the restaurant in 2022.

File image

Café L’Europe becomes The Café on St. Armands

Connecting with your doctor when you need them most is crucial.

The St. Armands Circle staple will reopen in January 2025 with a reimagined dining theme and new name following damage from Hurricane Helene.

At Gulfshore Personalized Care, it’s possible to meet your medical needs anywhere at any time. Thomas Arne Jr., DO, FACC, proudly offers patient-centered care through concierge services, such as 24/7 access and same-day visits.

Call us to schedule your no-obligation meet & greet with Dr. Arne today.

CARTER WEINHOFER STAFF WRITER

W

Dr. Arne

941-366-2194 | gulfshorepc.com

437529-1

1250 S Tamiami Trail, Suite 401, Sarasota, FL 34239

HOLIDAY SALE Need the perfect gift?

hen the restaurant reopens in January 2025, it will no longer be Café L’Europe.

Oysters Rock Hospitality announced via press release that the St. Armands Circle restaurant will reopen as The Café on St. Armands, also changing its menu theme.

Oysters Rock Hospitality purchased the 51-year-old restaurant in February 2022. Now, the hospitality group is ready to start a new era of the St. Armands staple.

The Café on St. Armands will feature a Mediterranean-inspired menu with small plates and a seafood focus.

The inspiration will draw from meals from places like Spain, Greece, Italy, South Africa and the Middle East.

“The Café brings the flavors of the Mediterranean coast to life in the heart of St. Armands Circle,” the release said.

Along with the new menu, The

Café will feature The Wet Bar, which the release calls a “Gatsby-inspired lounge with creative cocktails.” Café Soleil, a coffee bar with morning cocktails, will be another addition.

The new restaurant will include other “unique services.”

“Our hospitality will extend to-go liquor sales, bespoke picnic baskets and third-party delivery services,” the release said.

During Hurricane Helene, Café L’Europe sustained about five feet of water throughout the restaurant.

The flooding also damaged sliding glass doors and ruined all of the restaurant’s equipment.

At the time, the restaurant needed to lay off staff for unemployment benefits and focus on recovering the restaurant.

Previously, Oysters Rock Hospitality Executive Vice President Eleni Sokos said the group was taking time to reimagine Café L’Europe.

With the reopening as The Café, the restaurant’s appearance will match the new vision of a Mediterranean dining experience.

According to the release, the restaurant group will start a grand reopening campaign in January 2025.

The Café on St. Armands will be located in the same spot: 431 St. Armands Circle.

Come see our finest selection of Diamonds and Fine Jewelry at true wholesale prices.

Cartier • Tiffany • Van Cleef • Webb Boucheron • Rolex • Patek Philippe

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

Building Materials | Furniture | Appliances Building Materials Building | Furniture Materials Building | Appliances | Furniture Materials | |Appliances Furniture | Appli ArtArt | Decorative | Lamps Art | Decorative Accessories | Decorative Art |Accessories Lamps Accessories | Decorative Accessories | Lamps | L

941.366.1014 SAME LOCATION FOR 40 YEARS DOWNTOWN SARASOTA

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

1515 Ringling Boulevard ~ Suite 990 Northern Trust Bank Building - Free Parking Licensed Fully Insured | Mon. - Sat. 9:00 - 5:00

n 1nLocation n Stores 3 Stores n 13 Location 3 Stores 1 3 Location Stores 1 Location Tuesday -n Saturday 10:00am - 5:00pm Tuesday - Saturday Tuesday 10:00am - Saturday Tuesday -n 5:00pm -nSaturday 10:00am -n 5:00pm 10:00am n Sarasota n Sarasota 2095 17th Street Sarasota 2095 17th Street 2095 17th Street 2095n 17th Street n Saraso 436448-1

or by appointment.

large items tolarge donate?

Have large Have items Have to large donate?

Have items to donate? items to donat The Sarasota/Siesta Key, East County and Longboat Observers meet the legal requirements to Call toyour schedule free pick up.

Call to schedule freeCall pick toyour up. schedule free pick your free pic Call to schedule ayour courtesy pick up.up. publish legal and public notices in Sarasota & Manatee counties, per F.S. 50.011. Call to schedule PUBLIC NOTICES

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

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

Our Our vision is everyone deserves a decent place to live.

Our vision is everyone deserves vision aisdecent everyone Our place vision deserves to live. is everyone a decent deserves place to alive. decent plac 414961-1

AUDITOR INFORMATION

433384-1

4A

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

Sarasota Orchestra completes design ensemble for new Music Center The orchestra selected Houstonbased OJB Landscape Architects to work with the design firm to create the Music Center’s ‘sense.’

ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER

T

he Sarasota Orchestra has selected the final key player for its symphony of designers of its planned new facilities at its 32-acre site at 5701 Fruitville Road near I-75.

The orchestra has announced Houston-based OJB Landscape Architecture will join the ensemble of design architect William Rawn Associates of Boston, executive architect HKS of Orlando, acoustician and theater planner Stages Consultants of Highland Park, New Jersey, and civil engineer George F. Young of St. Petersburg to bring its new Music Center to life.

Founded in 1989, OJB is a nationally recognized landscape architecture firm with six offices across the U.S. It is dedicated to enhancing the human experience, specializing in transforming public spaces to create meaningful connections between people and nature, according to a news release.

“Our board has always envisioned the Music Center as more than just a building. It is about the entire site,” said Sarasota Orchestra Board Chair Tom Koski in a news release. “With OJB on board, our project team can work together to create thoughtfully designed spaces that fully support the mission and programs of the Music Center, making it a true community destination for residents and visitors alike.”

OJB has won more than 150 national and international awards, including four Urban Land Institute Open Space Awards, in a global competition of the best public spaces.

Notable projects include Klyde Warren Park, home of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s Symphony

Sundays; and Gene Leahy Mall at The RiverFront, where the Omaha Symphony frequently performs, which was named Fast Company’s “Best Urban Design Project for 2024.”

The firm’s work at the Music Center site will be essential in creating a sense of place, particularly on such a large site.

“There are three legs to this really important stool,” Sarasota Orchestra CEO Joe McKenna told the Observer. “One is the design architect. And then, also named recently, was the civil engineer. And then the third leg of that stool is the landscape architect. Together, they look at the site, they interpret the site, they think about designs, they think about water mitigation and access and sidewalks and plantings.

“They make up that nucleus of what the entire project will evolve into both from a building as well as a site and a landscape and a sense of place.”

OJB has already begun collaborating with the other project partners on its role in shaping the overall architectural vision, which includes the integration of natural elements such as plants, water and terrain to create an environment that complements the architecture.

“We are thrilled to be part of this project, which embodies a forwardthinking vision for Sarasota-Manatee, focused on long-term growth and sustainability,” said OJB partner Chip Trageser in the news release.

“By creating a space that evolves with the community, we are aiming to establish a lasting destination that enriches the region for generations.

The integration of music and landscape also offers a unique opportunity to enhance emotional well being and strengthen human connections across the community.”

OJB will be responsible for creating that sense of place among the large property that will include a large parking lot, stormwater management facilities, buffering between adjacent properties including a single-family neighborhood bordering the property to the north, all com-

Courtesy image

plimenting the design of the building itself.

McKenna likened the collaboration to that of building a fine automobile.

“It needs to look good. It needs to ride well. It needs to be comfortable,” he said. “It has to create a sense of place of anything with respect to access from sidewalks or parking and stormwater, canopies over parking lots for shade, all of those kinds of things. It’s really going about it in a way to make sure that every person who will use the facility — whether a musician, an audience member, an education parent, a music festival or a participant — that they’re all having the maximum experience. Much like a really fine piece of music, it’s well composed and has the desired impact.”

With the design team complete, the orchestra has an ambitious time line to present a concept in spring 2025. That’s a crucial step in determining the project budget and in launching a capital campaign to raise

funds for the construction cost. The Orchestra paid $14 million in cash to acquire the site from Walmart Stores East LP in May 2023.

While working with Rawn Associations on designs to complement the building, OJB will embark on a site assessment to guide the landscape design, evaluating the soil, vegetation and regional history, with a particular focus on water management.

According to the news release, the firm will prioritize sustainability and functionality to create a flexible environment that can evolve with the community’s changing needs.

Because the company is based in Houston, McKenna said OJB is deeply familiar with creating designs that flourish in tropical climates.

“The environment in Houston is not so different than Sarasota,” McKenna said. “They bring that expertise, and because they have multiple offices around the country they have a really rich and deep bench of talent to help us imagine this site.”

The Sarasota Orchestra plans to build a new music center on the 32-acre parcel at 5701 Fruitville Road.

A life-changing destination is here.

THE CORNELL BEHAVIORAL HEALTH PAVILION The Cornell Pavilion is a safe, welcoming place for those struggling with mental health issues. With evidence-based programs and services, and the most experienced clinicians, lives are transformed, smiles return and our community grows stronger.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT IS CRITICAL TO ITS SUCCESS Only 17% of SMH’s behavioral health costs are reimbursed.

Learn how you can make an impact, call 941.917.1286 or visit smhf.org.

432420-1

Learn more.

5A

6A

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

Purple Ribbon Committee starts last phase

Florida Studio Theatre Arts Plaza will be built next door to the current building on First Street.

Philosophical differences emerge as members tasked to recommend repurposing the Van Wezel begin to share thoughts about its report to the City Commission.

The saturated carpet in the Grand Foyer at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall has been replaced with polished concrete.

ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER Courtesy image

FST expansion group has first city meeting ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER

W

ith design and construction of a new Arts Plaza, artistic ambitions met with municipal government reality on Dec. 4 as an expansion of Florida Studio Theatre’s campus had its first appearance before the city’s Development Review Committee.

Consultant Joel Freedman, a veteran of dealing with technical and political approval of projects throughout Sarasota, presented the plans for FST’s Arts Plaza, which were met with a significant amount of “comments” — government speak for clarification requests and code conflicts — during its initial submittal.

Florida Studio Theatre plans to develop two parcels adjacent to its current main building at 1221 and 1233 First St., which currently serves as an unpaved parking lot, into a multiuse addition that includes 24 apartments and a 33-room hotel atop structured parking. The intent is to consolidate FST’s housing program, which is scattered throughout downtown, for short- and long-term performers’ residences.

“The thought is by bringing all that into one building, it’s going to be much easier and much more cost effective,” Freedman said. “That’s

both the apartment group that will be for the longer-term people, but also the hotel will serve actors who are there for a couple weeks, and it’ll be open to the public.”

In total, that expense is estimated at $57 million. More than residential space and parking, though, the Arts Plaza will include a second main stage theater and two new cabaret theaters occupying the first two floors below the 150-space parking deck with apartments and hotel rooms above.

Because it is in the Downtown Core zone district, the FST Arts Plaza will need only administrative approval.

However, the design of the parking levels, which will be accessed by an alley running between First Street and Fruitville Road, will need a curb cut in Cocoanut Avenue. That will require an adjustment approval by the Planning Board. So will FST’s desire for multiple signs including vertical building identification signs on the west, south and east elevations of the building. An architectural feature proposed at the top of the building will require an adjustment as well.

In May, Florida Studio Theatre CEO Richard Hopkins said he anticipates residences to open by mid-2026 with the new cabaret spaces opening one year later and, by mid-2028, the new main stage theater.

W

ith a new chairman now in place, the city of Sarasota’s Purple Ribbon Committee is embarking on a new phase of its work to recommend a repurposing of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.

At its Dec. 5 meeting, the committee elected Charles Cosler to replace Lee-En Chung, who announced at its prior meeting on Nov. 25 her intention to resign to address family matters raised by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. It was damage left in the wake of Hurricane Milton, ironically, that has also expanded the committee’s thoughts to include the reality that the Van Wezel in its current form lies in the path of future flood events.

Since the committee began its work, whether the Van Wezel might suffer flood damage shifted to how often it may happen as Hurricane Milton storm surge pushed Sarasota Bay into the building, inundating much of the basement level, orchestra pit, kitchen and the Grand Foyer.

This while the committee is awaiting the Karins Engineering report on the overall health of the building.

“Since we started, facts have changed. I don’t think any of us thought the Van Wezel would be shut down and lose shows in the fall, and I certainly agree that Van Wezel has to maintain itself as a performing arts center and not shut down,” said committee member David Rovine. “This is where the Karins report falls short if the only mission is a perspective from an engineering point of view how this building can exist for the next 30, 40, 50 years —

In celebration of our 48th Anniversary in providing quality Cardiovascular Care to Sarasota County residents The Cardiovascular Center of Sarasota and the El Shahawy Family Foundation are pleased sponsor the in providing quality In celebration of our 50TH to ANNIVERSARY

Andrew Warfield

whatever the long-term solution is — because we’re dealing with a potential short-term situation.”

That situation is how much should be invested in the Van Wezel now if it is to serve its current purpose until its replacement, how to protect it in the interim and how much investment should be made only to have it wasted by future adaptive reuse.

All that runs afield of the committee’s task, facilitator Jim Shirley reminded.

“We have to keep ourselves focused on our job, which is recommendations on the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall going forward,” Shirley said.

With its report due to the City Commission by the end of June 2025, the committee will double its meeting schedule to twice monthly beginning in January, the first on Jan. 17 when expectations to receive the final report on the state of the building from Karins Engineering.

The committee will heavily rely on that report to recommend a new use for the Van Wezel, should the proposed Sarasota Performing Arts Center be built.

As information gathering turned toward discussion, philosophical differences were emerging for the first time among the committee members selected based on specific disciplines they bring. Bob Bunting

is a climatologist, Cosler a professional in theater design. Bunting asked Chung, the construction engineer of the group, to provide her thoughts based on her 18 months on the panel, a suggestion opposed by Selma Goker Wilson, an architect and interior designer.

Goker Wilson objected because that phase of the process is to occur in a January meeting. Her concern about the premature input by Chung could influence others’ thoughts prior to receiving the Karins study and the start of drafting their own report.

“I think we’ve all been very careful not to be judgmental up to this point,” Wilson said. “We’ve been careful to always talk about what we’re doing in terms of gathering information until we assess it.”

Responded Bunting, “We’ve been here for more than a year. Lee-En has been thinking about it like all of us have, and what’s the big whoop?

It’s input, just like anything else, and we’re making a recommendation.

We’re not making any decisions, so I think we should hear from her.”

Shirley ended the debate by inviting Chung to return to one of the two January meetings to share her thoughts with the committee.

Following the Jan. 17 meeting, the next Purple Ribbon Committee meeting is Jan. 27.

We Serve All Families

Cardiovascular Care to Sarasota County residents and in appreciation for the Lifetime Achievement Award from In celebration of Anniversary in providing quality In the celebration of our our 48th 48th Anniversary infor providing quality City of Sarasota and the naming day Dr. Shahawy, Cardiovascular Care to Sarasota County residents Cardiovascular Care Congress to Sarasota Countyand residents The Cardiovascular Center of Sarasota the National The Cardiovascular Center of Sarasota The National Cardiovascular Center of Sarasota El Shahawy Family Foundation 23rd Annual Cardio Sarasota Congress on and the El Shahawy Family and the Shahawy Family Foundation Foundation areElpleased to sponsor the are to the CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE PREVENTION are pleased pleased to sponsor sponsor the CME accredited program by the Florida Medical Association 25/25/25

23/23/23

Experts In Celebrating Life

23/23/23 23/23/23 National Cardiology Congress National Congress February 3-4, 2023 25 Annual National Cardiology Congress on National Congress 23rd Annual National Cardio Sarasota Congress on CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE PREVENTION 23rd Annual National Cardio Sarasota Congress on Hyatt Regency, Sarasota, FL CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE PREVENTION CME accredited program by DISEASE the Florida Medical Association CARDIOVASCULAR PREVENTION th

CME accredited program by the Florida Medical Association CME accredited program by the Florida Medical Association

Endorsed by Friday &theSaturday February3-4, 7-8,2023 2025 February February 3-4, 2023 Hyatt Regency, Hyatt Sarasota, Hyatt Regency, Regency, Sarasota, FL FL Sarasota, FL ofessor M. El Shahawy Cardiovascular Health Assessment Center

D, MS, FACP, FESC, FASH, Professor M. El Shahawy SPC, FSCCT, FAHA, FACC

Endorsed by the Endorsed Endorsedbybythethe

Professor Professor J.J.Cohn Cohn

MD, FACP, FESC, FASH, MD,FACC, FACC,FAHA FAHA esident ofMD, the MS, International FASPC, FSCCT, FAHA, FACC Vice President ofthe the Vice President of ciety for Cardiovascular InternationalSociety Societyfor for President of the International International sease Prevention CardiovascularDisease Disease Society for Cardiovascular Cardiovascular ogram Director Prevention Prevention Disease Prevention Professor M. El Shahawy In Cooperation with the Members of Program Co-Director Professor M. El Shahawy Program Co-Director Program Director MD, MS, FACP, FESC, FASH, Professor J. Cohn MD, MS,FSCCT, FACP, FESC, FASH, Lifetime Achievement Award FASPC, FAHA, FACC Professor J. Cohn MD, FACC, FAHA FASPC, FSCCT, FAHA, FACC for Practice of Medicine and President of the International MD, FACC, FAHA Vice President of the President of the International Cardiology Florida Society for Sarasota, Cardiovascular Vice President of the International Society for Society for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention Sponsored

By The International Society for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention International (ISCVDP) and (50 years) Society for CARDIOVASCULAR CENTER OF SARASOTA

Cardiovascular Health Assessment Center Cardiovascular Health Assessment Center

CARDIOVASCULAR CENTER OF SARASOTA CARDIOVASCULAR CENTER OF SARASOTA

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

Cardiovascular Disease Disease ProgramPrevention Director Cardiovascular Disease The Cardiovascular Center of Sarasota Foundation for Research & Education Prevention Program Director Prevention Program Co-Director osted by 23 of the most renowned professors in cardiology including current and past Presidents of Co-Director Sponsored By The International Society for Cardiovascular Disease PreventionProgram (ISCVDP) and

Sponsored The International Society for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention (ISCVDP) and the By ISCVDP, ASPC,Center SCCT, ACC, AHA, and World Heart Federation (WHF) Cardiovascular of Sarasota Foundation for prior Research &Jan Education Free for nurses,The medical students & residents if registered to 20, 2023 The Cardiovascular Center of Sarasota Foundation for Research & Education CME accredited program.

Hosted bydiscounted 23 of the mostregistration renowned professors in cardiology includingCare current and past Presidents of Nominally fees for other Health Providers!

Hosted by 23 of the most renowned professors in cardiology including current and past Presidents of the nurses, ISCVDP, ASPC, SCCT, ACC,&AHA, and World Heart .ORG Federation (WHF) Must pre-register tostudents guarantee a seat at ISCVDP Free for medical residents if registered prior to Dec 31,2024 the ISCVDP, ASPC, SCCT, ACC, AHA, and World Heart Federation (WHF) 11.5 CME accredited program.

Nominally discounted 11.5 registration fees for other Health Care Providers!

CME accreditedFREE program.TO THE PUBLIC SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSION Must pre-register to guarantee a seat at ISCVDP.ORG

Free for nurses, medical students & residents if registered prior to Jan 20, 2023 Must pre-register to a seat students Free forguarantee nurses, medical & residents registered prior Jan 20, 2023 Nominally discounted registration fees for ifother Health CaretoProviders!

SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSION FREE TO THE PUBLIC For Travel Accommodations, Please Contact:registration AdmiralTravel.com| 941-951-1801 Nominally discounted fees for other Health Care Providers! pre-register Must pre-register toMust guarantee a seat priortotoguarantee Dec 31, 2024a seat at ISCVDP.ORG Must pre-register to guarantee a seat at ISCVDP.ORG

437114-1

Travel Accommodations, Please Contact: AdmiralTravel.com | 941-951-1801 RegisterForSATURDAY Online at: cardiologycenter.net AFTERNOON SESSION FREE TO THE PUBLIC SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSION FREE TO THE PUBLIC or iscvdp.org Register Online at: cardiologycenter.net Must pre-register to guarantee a seat Must pre-register to guarantee seat AdmiralTravel.com|941-951-1801 or Call 941-366-9800 For iscvdp.org Travel Accommodations, PleaseaContact: or For Travel Accommodations, Please Contact: AdmiralTravel.com|941-951-1801 Register Online at: cardiologycenter.net or Call 941-366-9800 Register Online at: cardiologycenter.net

or iscvdp.org or iscvdp.org or Call 941-366-9800 or Call 941-366-9800

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

BRADENTON 941-755-2688

ROBERT TOALE & SONS CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTER

ROBERT TOALE & SONS CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTER

LAKEWOOD RANCH 941-932-8100

SARASOTA 941-921-5755

4310 Solutions Lane Bradenton, FL 34211

7454 S Tamiami Trl Sarasota, FL 34231

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

SARASOTA 941-371-4962

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

437432-1

the ISCVDP, ASPC, SCCT, ACC, AHA, and World Heart (WHF) The Cardiovascular Center of Sarasota Foundation forFederation Research & Education 11.5 CME accredited program.

Hosted by 25 ofBy theThe most renownedSociety professors in cardiology including and past Presidents Sponsored International for Cardiovascular Diseasecurrent Prevention (ISCVDP) and of

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

7A

TOYS

FISHING GEAR RIDE ON TOYS

CLOTHING

SHOES

BAKED GOODS GAMING SHOP

ELECTRIC BIKES BOOTS

UNIQUE ART ANIME LEATHER GOODS

SPORTS MEMORABILIA

AT THE BARN DECEMBER

2024

EXTRA SHOPPING DAY FOR CHRISTMAS 9AM - 4PM

F

S

OPEN

OPEN

OPEN

OPEN OPEN OPEN OPEN

8

15

OPEN

22

11

OPEN OPEN

13 14

18 19 20 21

OPEN CLOSED

24 25

OPEN OPEN

27 28

1707 1st Street E. Bradenton 34208 | (Where Highway 41 & 301 meet at 17th Ave.)

RedBarnFleaMarket.com

436328-1

941.747.3794 436328-1

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL

S M T W T

Come for a unique shopping experience and find the perfect holiday gifts!

8A

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

OPINION / OUR VIEW

SARASOTA/SIESTA KEY

How to fight hurricanes Research has demonstrated that turbine-driven wind farms in the gulf and ocean can produce energy and dramatically reduce hurricane damage.

Friedrich Hayek

“Road to Serfdom,” 1944 President and Publisher / Emily Walsh, EWalsh@YourObserver.com Executive Editor and COO / Kat Wingert, KWingert@YourObserver.com

PROPERTY, HUMAN COSTS OF HURRICANES

The data below is a sampling of recent major hurricanes in Florida in terms of Florida deaths and property damage unadjusted for inflation. (Dollars in billions)

MATT WALSH

I

t’s an accepted bromide that you can’t fool with Mother Nature.

She’ll do whatever she wants.

Indeed, that is pretty much the thought process when it comes to hurricanes coming near and through Florida. You can’t stop her.

Longtime Floridians know the drill: Get ready. Get water. Get food.

Get out of town. Secure your property. Take cover.

Then face the grim aftermath.

We also know these storms ebb and roar inconsistently and unpredictably.

Yes, the trifecta of Debby, Helene and Milton was a rarity, especially for this area. But let’s not also forget 2004. That was a doozy of a late summer: Hurricanes Charley (Aug. 13), Frances (Sept. 5), Ivan (Sept.

16) and Jeanne (Sept. 25) all affected this area, albeit on the fringes, coming at us seemingly one week after another. It was exhausting.

As the table above shows, all of the storms were deadly and costly in property damage: 2004: 106 deaths in Florida; $37.3 billion in losses.

2024: 56 deaths in Florida; close to $100 billion in property losses.

It’s difficult to grasp the scope of death and destruction. But the total property losses from this year’s three storms essentially are the equivalent of wiping out the entire taxable value of all real estate in Sarasota County. Picture that.

All of which prompts the thought: There must be a better way, a better way to protect against and mitigate hurricane damage than just letting Mother Nature take her course.

Observer reporter Carter Weinhofer has quoted Bob Bunting, CEO of the Climate Adaptation Center, saying: “We have to change the way we do business.”

The most obvious way is to build better resistant buildings and refurbish, renovate and harden existing buildings. Those steps have been occurring with improved construction and stricter building codes.

One simple illustration is the level of building destruction throughout the region. As we reported previously, asked where the worst damage occurred along the coast from Helene and Milton, one insurance executive told us Palmetto had worse damage comparatively, largely because of the age of its buildings. Few, if any, of the recently built high-rise condominiums suffered physical damage; it was on the ground levels from Helene’s surge.

So, duh, hurricane-resistant construction — while far more costly than bolting together an aluminum trailer home — makes sense. And no doubt insurers will continue to urge their policyholders to harden their homes, while Florida lawmakers will continue to use your tax dollars to subsidize home improvements.

Realistically, however, think of the massive amounts of money, materials, labor and time it would take to rehab all of the 30-, 40and 50-year-old single-family homes and apartments throughout Florida.

Is there a better, more economical, more efficient way to protect and mitigate?

Turbines in the Gulf of Mexico.

Ten years ago, Mark Z. Jacobson, a Stanford University professor of civil and environmental engineering, and two colleagues developed computer simulations showing how wind turbines actually can reduce the force of hurricanes.

In a 2014 paper in Nature Climate Change, Jacobson his two associates from the University of Dela-

1992 Andrew 2004 Charley Frances Ivan Jeanne 2005 Katrina Wilma 2016 Matthew 2017 Irma 2018 Michael 2022 Ian 2024 Debby Helene Milton

Deaths

Damage

44

$25.3

34 37 29 6

$16 $9.8 $4 $7.5

14 30

$.623 $19

14

$1.3

87

$50

50

$18.4

66

$109

5 27 24*

$.121 $30-$47 $50

*1 death in Sarasota County Sources: CoreLogic, Morningstar DBRS, President Biden, National Hurricane Center

ware — Christina Archer, an earth, ocean and environment professor, and Willett Kempton, an electrical and computer engineering professor — posed the following: Can offshore wind turbines mitigate hurricane damage while avoiding damage to themselves?

The conclusion (as published): “(L)arge turbine arrays (300+ gigawatt installed capacity) may diminish peak near-surface hurricane wind speeds by 56 to 92 mph and storm surge by 6% to 79%.

“Benefits occur whether turbine arrays are placed immediately upstream of a city or along an expanse of coastline. The reduction in wind speed due to large arrays increases the probability of survival of even present turbine designs,” their study concluded.”

In their models simulating Hurricanes Sandy in the Northeast and Katrina in New Orleans, the three professors determined “Offshore wind turbine arrays reduced storm surge by up to 34% for Sandy and 79% for Katrina, mainly owing to the average wind speed decreasing by up to 14% and 58% upwind of New York and New Orleans, respectively.”

As for cost, they concluded: “The net cost of turbine arrays (capital plus operation cost less cost reduction from electricity generation and from health, climate and hurricane damage avoidance) is estimated to be less than today’s fossil fuel electricity generation net cost in these regions and less than the net cost of sea walls used solely to avoid storm surge damage.”

In a phone interview this week, Jacobson said the cost of wind-farm energy is dropping below that of fossil fuels — 7.5 cents per kilowatthour for wind versus 10 cents for fossil fuels.

“In sum,” the professors wrote, “large arrays of offshore wind turbines seem to diminish hurricane risk cost-effectively while reducing air pollution and global warming and providing energy supply at a lower net cost than conventional fuels.

“Turbines pay for themselves from the sale of electricity they produce and other non-market benefits, but seawalls have no other function than to reduce storm surge (They do not reduce damaging hurricane wind speeds.), so society bears their full cost.”

Asked where his research stands today, Jacobson said he hasn’t pursued since 2014 in large part because: “The physics doesn’t change. It still stands.”

One thing that has changed is the strength and technology of

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

STATE POPULATION RAISES DILEMMAS FOR INSURANCE In the wake of disasters, there always are the doom-and-gloomers who rattle us with the “I told you so’s” and that whatever the disaster, that thing is getting worse.

We hear it all the time now — that climate change is causing hurricanes to come more frequently and with more intensity and speeds; and that there is more catastrophic destruction than ever before.

Maybe, maybe not. Perusing a list on Wikipedia (OK, not the most authoritative source, but useful nevertheless.) of 42 Category 3 or above hurricanes that have hit Florida since 1851, there have been two Category 5 storms (Andrew, 1992, and Michael, 2018); 13 Category 4 storms and 24 Category 3.)

Based on the table, it looks likely the claim of greater frequency will prove true, given the 11 storms that have hit since 2000.

But you never know. After the 10-storm streak from the 1940s through the 1960s, there were only two major hurricanes in the 1970s and 1980s and two in the 1990s. No one knows what will happen going forward.

Are the storms more deadly and destructive? On the former, again referring to Wikipedia, they’re not more deadly. “Collectively, cyclones that hit the region have resulted in more than 10,000 deaths (in Florida), most of which occurred prior to the start of hurricane hunter flights in 1943.” In the 32 years since Andrew, storms directly account for 511 deaths.

Proportionately, it’s obvious the deaths per capita have dropped dramatically. In the century from 1880 to 1980, Florida’s population grew from 270,000 to 9.7 million. In the past 44 years, it has mushroomed to 23 million. The fewer deaths can be attributed to far better protective conditions —

turbines. Today, there are turbines that can withstand Category 5 hurricanes.

What’s more, they’re more powerful. When Jacobson and his colleagues did their simulations, they based them on 7.5 megawatt turbines. At that size, it could take a wind farm or farms of 80,000 offshore turbines to make a significant difference. You can imagine how Florida’s dolphin lovers and fishing industry would respond to 80,000 turbines offshore.

But now, Jacobson said, turbine technology has advanced to 20 megawatts, thus requiring onethird the number of turbines to have maximum mitigating effects.

“It’s not like you need 100,000; one turbine would actually help,” Jacobson said.

How they would work: As a Category 5 hurricane approaches, the turbines would extract energy from the wind and turn it into electricity and send the power to shore through an underwater cable.

That process would slow down the hurricane winds, which in turn would slow down the storm’s wave heights.

Asked why his research hasn’t been put into practice, Jacobson acknowledged large-scale wind farms

FLORIDA HURRICANES

BY DECADE

Category 3 or above to hit Florida as recorded by the National Hurricane Center and Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory.

1850-59.............................. 1 1870-79...............................3 1880-89..............................2 1890-99..............................2 1900-09..............................2 1910-19................................2 1920-29..............................2 1930-39..............................2 1940-49..............................5 1950-59..............................2 1960-69..............................3 1970-79............................... 1 1980-89.............................. 1 1990-99..............................2 2000-09.............................5 2010-19...............................2 2020-29..............................4 Source: Wikipedia

more resistant buildings and better access to evacuation routes.

It’s no surprise that property damage now and over the past 50 years has grown increasingly worse. With 23 million people in Florida, the density of buildings — homes, stores, offices and warehouses — is astronomical comparatively.

So, of course, as the chart above shows, property damage hereon is almost always likely to be in the billions of dollars. And that triggers the obvious questions about the cost and availability of insurance: Are there enough businesses and investors willing to put up the required capital to cover the astronomical losses?

And, can the price of insurance be affordable for the 23 millionplus million, plus the millions more who will move here over the next decades?

The challenge is how best and economically to protect, minimize and mitigate against future death and destruction.

are only now starting to percolate.

“They are starting to put some in Asia where they have typhoons,” he said.

In Florida, no surprise, Jacobson said there is a moratorium. Any time someone suggests erecting oil rigs or, now, wind farms off the coasts of Florida, the environmentalists and tourism lobbies go bananas, and the short-sighted lawmakers (driven to be reelected) jump on the anti-rig wagons.

In the words of economistphilosopher Thomas Sowell, everything is a tradeoff. Likewise with energy-producing, hurricanemitigating turbines. In the context of the three storms that ravaged our region — plus all of the historical damage and deaths that have occurred over the decades, what makes sense? To let Mother Nature continue to destroy people and property unabated?

Or to embrace human ingenuity and technology that has demonstrated Florida could have its cake and eat it, too? Wind-farm turbines can produce year-round clean energy and, as a bonus, serve as protection and mitigation against Mother Nature’s destructive winds and surges.

Someone call Elon Musk.

Managing Editor / Michael Harris, MHarris@YourObserver.com Staff Writers / Ian Swaby, ISwaby@ YourObserver.com; Andrew Warfield, AWarfield@YourObserver.com Sports Reporter / Dylan Campbell, DCampbell@YourObserver.com Digital & Engagement Editor / Kaelyn Adix, KAdix@YourObserver.com Digital Content Producer / Jim DeLa, JDeLa@YourObserver.com Copy Editor / Gina Reynolds Haskins, GRHaskins@YourObserver.com Senior Editorial Designer / Melislori sa Leduc, MLeduc@YourObserver.com Editorial Designer / Jenn Edwards, JEdwards@YourObserver.com A+E Editor / Monica Roman Gagnier, MGagnier@YourObserver.com Chief Revenue Officer / Jill Raleigh, JRaleigh@YourObserver.com Regional Sales Director / Penny Nowicki, PNowicki@YourObserver.com Regional Digital Director / Kathleen O’Hara, KOHara@YourObserver.com Senior Advertising Executive / Laura Ritter, LRitter@YourObserver.com Advertising Executives / Richeal McGuinness, RMcGuinness@ YourObserver.com; Jennifer Kane, JKane@ YourObserver.com; Honesty Mantkowski, HMantkowski@YourObserver.com; Lori Mierendor, LMierendorf@YourObserver. com; Toni Perren, TPerren@YourObserver. com; Brenda White, BWhite@ YourObserver.com Classified Advertising Sales Executive / Anna Reich, AReich@YourObserver.com Sales Operations Manager / Susan Leedom, SLeedom@YourObserver.com Account Managers / Lori Downey, LDowney@YourObserver.com; Caitlin Ellis, CEllis@YourObserver.com; Lexi Huelsman, Lexi@YourObserver.com Digital Fulfillment Specialist / Emma B. Jolly, EJolly@YourObserver.com Director of Marketing / Robin Lankton, RLankton@YourObserver.com Marketing Specialist / Melanie Melone, MMelone@YourObserver.com Director of Creative Services / Caleb Stanton, CStanton@YourObserver.com Creative Services Administrator / Marjorie Holloway, MHolloway@ YourObserver.com Advertising Graphic Designers / Luis Trujillo, Taylor Poe, Louise Martin, Shawna Polana Digital Developer / Jason Camillo, JCamillo@YourObserver.com Information Technology Manager / Homer Gallego, HGallego@YourObserver. com Chief Financial Officer / Laura Strickland, LStrickland@YourObserver.com Controller / Rafael Labrin, RLabrin@ YourObserver.com Office and Accounting Coordinator / Donna Condon, DCondon @YourObserver.com

Observer Media Group Inc. is locally owned.

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

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

YourObserver.com © 2024 The Observer Media Group Inc. All Rights Reserved

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

9A

Sarasota County closes deal on orchards The Albritton Groves sells land for BEE RIDGE RD. $19 million; county plans to use the soil for waste complex.

BEE RIDGE RD.

ELIZABETH KING P ROCTO R RD.

T

he former Albritton fruit orchards east of Interstate 75 near Clark Road are now CLARK RD. County, owned by Sarasota which purchased the land this fall for $19 million. The seller was Albritton Groves, which previously operated fields there for blueberry picking from mid-March through the end of May. Sarasota County will use the land for soil needed to cover waste at the Central County Solid Waste Disposal Complex, which is also on property the county bought from the Albritton family. When the county purchased the land 20 years ago for its landfill, it negotiated a first right to purchase option of any adjacent lands, according to a memo from County Administrator Jonathan Lewis in July, when commissioners approved the issuance of revenue bonds to finance the new land acquisition.

According to Lewis, the Albrittons notified the county in August 2022 that they planned to sell 341 acres at 9665 State Road 72.

Because of the “substantial growth of the county and projected additional growth,” the Solid Waste Department determined it would be “both necessary and in the public interest” to acquire the property to provide “future borrow soils” for intermediate, daily and final cover of waste at the Central County Solid Waste Disposal Complex, Lewis said in his memo. After evaluating alternative sites, impacts and costs, he noted, the county “determined that the property is necessary for solid waste and county needs.”

Sarasota County let Albritton Groves know in September 2022 that it planned to make an offer, and in April 2023, county commission-

LORRAINE RD.

BUSINESS OBSERVER

75

Albritton Groves Ltd. sold its property off State Road 72 to Sarasota County.

72 72 “This purchase is a proactive project that will result in $50 million in savings for county residents, remove dump truck trips from our roadways and provide opportunities for generations to come.”

Courtesy images

Albritton Fruit Farms was long known for its U-pick berries and flowers.

— Genevieve Judge, Sarasota County spokesperson

ers approved a contract for the sale and purchase of the property for $19 million. Contract amendments were filed to extend the time for surveying the property and for the owner to clear out of the premises.

County commissioners authorized the county in July to issue Solid Waste System Revenue Bonds to fund the acquisition over a 15-year period.

Repayment of the bonds will be from tipping fees and other revenues in the Solid Waste System Operating

and Maintenance Fund. The sale was completed Oct. 8, according to Sarasota County property records.

Now owned by Sarasota County, the land on State Road 72 that was once used for blueberry picking will instead be a source of soil to cover the county landfill nearby.

“Soil is a vital component of landfill operations as it’s used to prevent odors, deter pests and wildlife, control litter and divert rainfall from waste,” Sarasota County spokesper-

son Genevieve Judge says in an email to sister publication, the Business Observer.

“Our community needs to know that this property is not an extension of the county’s existing landfill,” Judge says. “This purchase is a proactive project that will result in $50 million in savings for county residents, remove dump truck trips from our roadways and provide opportunities for generations to come.”

The Albrittons did not respond to a request for comment regarding any potential future plans. According to the Albritton Fruit Farms website, a new pick-your-own blueberry location may be coming soon.

Family Medicine

CO N G R AT U L AT E S

WELCOMES Keyur Kurani, MD

Gary S. Brochin

Board Certified, Family Medicine

Managing Director/Investments Portfolio Manager – Solutions Program

Sarasota: (941) 329-6286 direct Atlanta: (404) 231-6535 direct broching@stifel.com

Dr. Keyur Kurani brings to Intercoastal Medical Group at the Cattleridge office a wealth of knowledge and experience in Internal Medicine.

Undergraduate:

University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL

Medical School:

University of Medicine and Health Sciences, St. Kitts, Basseterre, SKN

Residency:

Family Medicine Residency, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Jackson, TN

Certification:

Board Certified, American Board of Family Medicine

www.brochinwealthmanagement.com

for being named to

Forbes’ 2024 Best-in-State Wealth Advisors.

Hospital Affiliations: Sarasota Memorial Hospital; Doctors Hospital

Contact me for a complimentary consultation

A Patient Focused, Multi-Specialty Group l National Expertise l Multiple Locations 8.26.21_IMG-Kassover-LWRII-18x24poster.indd 1

TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT, PLEASE CALL

8/26/21 3:27 PM

941-371-3337

A Patient Focused, Multi-Specialty Group l National Expertise l Multiple Locations 8.26.21_IMG-Kassover-LWRII-18x24poster.indd 1

Forbes’ Best-in-State Wealth Advisors rankings are based on the 12-month period ending June 30 of the year prior to publication and selected by SHOOK Research, LLC from a pool of nominations as indicated in the methodology. The rankings may not be representative of any one client’s experience and are not indicative of the financial advisor’s future performance. For more information, see www.stifel.info/award-disclosures.

Cattleridge Medical Building I

8/26/21 3:27 PM

www.intercoastalmedical.com Medicare and most insurances accepted

8/26/21 3:27 PM

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

l

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

8.26.21_IMG-Kassover-LWRII-18x24poster.indd 1

Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated | Member SIPC & NYSE | www.stifel.com

435651-1

8.26.21_IMG-Kassover-LWRII-18x24poster.indd 1

437124-1

3333 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota, FL 34232

8/26/21 3:27 PM

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

f o t f i G e Give th

!

E R U T ADVEN

Andrew Warfield

A Tempo Hotel by Hilton is proposed to be built on Fruitville Road from the Downtown Hair Studio to the left through the end of the block.

Fruitville Road going up-Tempo A Tempo Hotel by Hilton is proposed for three parcels in the 1500 block.

ANDREW WARFIELD STAFF WRITER

A

new 125-room, select service hotel is being proposed for three buildings on the south side of the 1500 block of Fruitville Road.

Developer Florida Holdings LLC, which lists an address in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, plans to build a nine-story Tempo Hotel, a Hilton brand, on parcels at 1524, 1534 and 1542 Fruitville Road. Those parcels currently have single-story businesses with a combined floor area of 9,919 square feet.

The project had its first appearance before the city’s Development Review Committee on Dec. 4. The 0.46-acre site is narrow, located between Fruitville Road and an alley to the rear, presenting multiple challenges that will require approval of adjustments from both the Planning Board and the city’s director of Development Services. Because the property is in the Downtown Core zone district, it will not require approval of the City Commission.

In his application to the staff project consultant Joel Freedman wrote,

Annual Passes & Gift Certificates Available!

“The zoning code acknowledges that narrow conditions exist for many parcels in the downtown. Parcels with a depth of less than 135 feet may request a Planning Board adjustment to allow for the parking to be in the second layer. We are requesting this adjustment.”

The application also requests two administrative adjustments.

They include a 25% reduction in the 12-foot setback for the building at 9 feet above the third story. The second is a 13% reduction of 3.6 feet in the depth of habitable space on the ground floor along Fruitville Road.

Both administrative adjustments are necessary to create a 12-foot wide pedestrian zone along Fruitville.

Freedman and architect Chris Gallagher of Hoyt Architects learned during their presentation further adjustments might be necessary if code conflicts remain unaddressed in later submissions. That includes a 12-foot first-floor limit applied to the rear of the building that will be uninhabitable and out of view of the public.

Leaving that back room space at 12 feet in height would mean another requested adjustment, in addition to a restricted signage height of 14 feet in the front that Gallagher said he had never seen before.

The project, Freedman and Gallagher were advised, will require a resubmittal to the DRC.

SPINE ISSUES? Our Team Can Help!

Same/ Ne Appoin xt Day tme Availa nts ble!

This year, go beyond the ordinary and choose a gift that’s extraordinarily exciting!

Cervical and Lumbar Degenerative Spinal Conditions

Our Annual Passes and Gift Certificates

Spinal Deformities

provide the ideal holiday gift for nature lovers,

Motion Preserving Surgery

adventure enthusiasts and everyone in between!

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Dr. Eric Sundberg Board Certified and Fellowship Trained Orthopedic Surgeon

Get yours today at SarasotaJungleGardens.com

Spine Providers Dr. Parth Kothari Fellowship Trained Orthopedic Surgeon

Call 941-792-1404 to schedule your appointment or visit CoastalOrthopedics.com COVENIENT LOCATIONS IN:

Sarasota's Favorite Family Attraction®

6202 17th Ave. West Bradenton, Florida 34209

LAKEWOOD RANCH 8340 Lakewood Ranch Blvd. 3rd Floor, Lakewood Ranch, Florida 34202 417999-1

SarasotaJungleGardens.com • 941.355.5305

WEST BRADENTON

EAST BRADENTON 8000 SR 64 East Bradenton, Florida 34212

432850-1

10A

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

11A

A Sarasota Essential

1350 Main Street | Sarasota | O: 941.867.6199

430810-1

© 2024 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY.

Whether it’s waterfront, condominium or in-town living, we set the standard for real estate.

YourObserver.com

COPS CORNER

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

Make

A Plan.

SUNDAY, NOV. 17

NO JUSTICE FOR JERK 3:58 p.m., 2900 block of Bay Street Family dispute: Frustrated that his partner of 13 years was attempting to keep their home tidy while he was watching football, a man began yelling at her, threw an ashtray at his TV and broke the screen. Then, for an unexplained reason, he called law enforcement to “try to get her in trouble” according to the incident report.

An officer spoke with the man — who admitted to his actions — and observed he appeared to be intoxicated and that a vodka bottle was at his feet. When the officer explained the crime of house cleaning during an NFL Sunday was a civil matter, the man stated, “‘Police don’t care about men anymore,’ and asked me to close the door and leave,” according to the report.

The officer then advised that he refrain from interacting with the woman for the remainder of the day and advised her that if she wished to have him removed from the home, she would need to take the proper steps through civil court.

SATURDAY, NOV. 16

HE WORKS IN MYSTERIOUS WAYS 11:03 p.m., 3800 block of Badger Street Dispute: A woman told an officer she was followed by her ex-boyfriend to her current boyfriend’s house and he began persistently knocking on her car window demanding to speak to her. She said she had stopped dating the subject male one month prior, and told the officer he has also shown up at her children’s school attempting to speak with her.

A resident of the county, she advised she has filed a complaint with the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office.

The complainant said the man has been seeking greater clarification of why they broke up, to which she told him “God told her to,” according to the incident report.

The subject told officers that, in addition to being told that he was left behind via instruction from a higher power, the woman owes him $3,000 from when they resided together and he wants her to pay him back.

Meanwhile, when the current boyfriend was interviewed, he advised it was only the pair’s second date, and he knows little about the history of the former couple.

The incident concluded when the subject was told not to contact the complainant and, regarding the claim of money owed, he needs to

It Makes a Difference.

file civil action. The woman was also notified of the process of obtaining a restraining order. She said she did not want to pursue any charges.

SUNDAY, NOV. 17

HEARTBROKEN WINDOW BREAKER 7 a.m., 500 block of Gillespie Avenue Property damage: Yet another case of conflict between ex-lovers resulted in a broken window at a woman’s apartment. The complainant said around 6 a.m. her ex-girlfriend began texting her and accusing her of having a new girlfriend, which, if true, might seem reasonable given their relationship ended six months prior.

During the text exchange, the subject told the complainant she was going to her apartment for an unspecified reason, prompting her to leave work. When she arrived, she told an officer she witnessed the subject hit her window and then leave.

The investigation continued when the officer contacted the subject by phone, then met at a neutral address. She admitted to losing control and causing the damage. She was issued a criminal notice to appear for criminal mischief, was informed that she was trespassed from the apartment building and that she was to cease contact with the victim.

LET YOUR KINDNESS SHINE BRIGHT

Taking a few moments now can make a significant difference for your loved ones down the road. From removing the stress and financial burdens to fulfilling your exact wishes for your celebration of life,

GIVE $50 OR MORE

pre-planning is the best gift you can give your family.

TO CHARITY*

We’re here to help.

Give us a call today to start the conversation.

GIVE & RECEIVE. < Read The Full Story Here

SAVE up to $400

FUNERAL HOME, CREMATORY & PREARRANGEMENT CENTER

* SUPPORTING RESURRECTION HOUSE OF SARASOTA

copenhagen imports

ToaleBrothers.com | 94 1.955.4171

7211 S. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, Florida 34231 *See Sales Associate for Details

Mon.-Sat. 10-6 • Sun. 12-5 941-923-2569 copenhagen-imports.com

437551-1

FURNITURE+LIGHTING+ACCENTS+INTERIOR DESIGN

Proudly serving Sarasota, Bradenton and Venice since 1912.

417122-1

12A

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

13A

The Most Wildly Successful

New Waterfront Community 16 Designer-Decorated Models Now Open

Wild Blue at Waterside has captivated homeowners with its Lakewood Ranch location, incomparable residences and resort-style amenities, which include the 13-acre Midway Sports Complex, opening in 2025, a social clubhouse with indoor and outdoor dining, two pools, a movie theater, fitness center, and a 9-hole premier putting course.

Idyllically situated minutes away from local landmarks like Waterside Place and Florida’s #1 Farmer’s Market, now is the time to discover Sarasota’s most desirable nature-centric luxury community.

Visit Today.

8396 Sea Glass Court, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34240 l 941.313.3852 From University Parkway turn south onto Lorraine Road and follow the signs to Wild Blue at Waterside

WildBluelwr.com Residences from $1.5 million

ANCHOR BUILDERS • AR HOMES BY ARTHUR RUTENBERG • JOHN CANNON HOMES LEE WETHERINGTON HOMES • STOCK LUXURY HOMES • STOCK CUSTOM HOMES

436210-1

ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING THE REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS REFERENCE SHOULD BE MADE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. ALL RENDERINGS AND PLANS ARE PROPOSED CONCEPTS SHOWN ONLY FOR MARKETING PURPOSES AND ARE BASED ON THE DEVELOPER’S CURRENT PRELIMINARY DEVELOPMENT PLAN. DEVELOPER RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY, REVISE OR WITHDRAW THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT PLAN IN DEVELOPER’S SOLE DISCRETION WITHOUT NOTICE. NOTHING HEREIN OR IN ANY OTHER COMMUNICATION SHALL BE DEEMED TO OBLIGATE THE DEVELOPER, OR ANY AFFILIATE OF DEVELOPER, TO CONSTRUCT THE PROJECT OR OFFER ANY OF THE PROJECT FOR SALE, AND NOTHING HEREIN SHALL BE DEEMED A GUARANTY OF ANY KIND. THIS IS NOT AN OFFER TO SALE OR SOLICITATION OF OFFERS TO BUY.

14A

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

Ocean Prime is ready to open BUSINESS OBSERVER

P

rominent national restaurateur Cameron Mitchell says he broke a big unwritten industry rule in building Ocean Prime in Sarasota, his new high-end steak, seafood and sushi restaurant.

“Typically, a restaurateur would think of themselves as crazy, building a restaurant where we are here — you can’t see it from the road,” says Mitchell, the founder and CEO of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, which operates nearly 50 restaurants nationwide. “But it’s such a great location.”

Ocean Prime Sarasota is one of four establishments Mitchell’s company is opening in Florida before the end of 2025. Despite challenges from labor costs and inflation, he is “very optimistic” about the future of the business, particularly in the Sunshine State.

Mitchell recently spoke with the Business Observer about a host of topics, including the company’s Florida strategy and the state of the industry.

Mitchell describes the rule-breaking location in The Quay in Sarasota as “ground zero,” within walking

FRESH NEW ENGLAND SEAFOOD MARKET

MUST PRE-ORDER FOR THE HOLIDAYS!

• Christmas Eve & Christmas Day orders must be pre-ordered by Dec. 21st - 6pm • New Year’s Eve orders must be pre-ordered by Dec. 28th - 6pm. | Closed New Year’s Day

Courtesy image

Carlton Residences, the two-story restaurant will feature waterfront views with terraces on each floor and include more than 350 seats, two bars and two private dining rooms.

Ocean Prime Sarasota will mark the 19th location for the brand and the fourth in Florida; the others are in Orlando, Naples and Tampa.

“It’s our horse; it’s our national brand,” Mitchell says of Ocean Prime, which has a presence nationwide, from Beverly Hills to New York City.

Dec. 23 rd Christma 11-6 s Christma Eve 11- 7 s New Yea Day 2-5 r’s Eve 117

941-918-2529 | 8780 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 34238 Normal Store Hours: TUES-SAT 11-6, SUN 11-4 CLOSED MONDAY

CAT DEPOT SUPPLY & GIFT STORE

OPEN

LIVE Maine Lobster ( Take‘em live or we’ll steam for you! ) Tuna, Cod, Haddock, Salmon, Sword, Steamers, Mussels, Florida’s Fresh Catch - Grouper, Snapper, Stone Crabs, Shrimp!

Hard Clams, Scallops, Chowders and Crabcakes.

(Next to SkyKing Fireworks - South of Sarasota Square Mall)

The market on the Gulf Coast appears to be eating up the Ocean Prime concept, based on the performance of already existing restaurants. Ocean Prime in Tampa, says Mitchell, is the top restaurant in sales volume across the Cameron Mitchell Restaurants portfolio. (The company, in total, he says, does “a little under $500 million” a year in revenue.) Plus, he adds: “Our Ocean Prime in Naples does phenomenally well.”

1 PLACE TO SHOP FOR CATS & CAT LOVERS #

NOW OPEN

www.catdepot.org/shop

LotsaLobsterSarasota.com FOLLOW US

2542 17th St., Sarasota, FL 34234 | www.catdepot.org | 941.366.2404

You’re invited! Holiday Open House Friday, December 13 – Sunday, December 15 | Stop by anytime!

Join us for a Holiday Open House at Tiburon in Nokomis, located off Honore Avenue and FL-681. Enjoy sweet treats and tour our beautifully decorated model homes! Take advantage of holiday savings incentives and begin building your dream home with no CDD fees in highly desirable Sarasota County.

New homes now selling from the high $400s.

Scan to explore Tiburon

Prominent national restaurateur Cameron Mitchell is opening Ocean Prime at The Quay on Dec. 21.

Tiburon Sales Center 7059 Fox Glen Cove Nokomis, FL 34275

433520-1 43351 1-1

ELIZABETH KING

distance of downtown and a short drive from Lido, Bird, Longboat and Siesta keys. He says he specifically worked with a broker to get a space there so he could build. (The Quay is a long-anticipated mixed-use project on the Sarasota Bay, with plans dating back in some form more than a decade.)

The Ocean Prime at The Quay is scheduled to open Dec. 21 — a milestone Mitchell says he is looking forward to for several reasons.

“Sarasota is like a second home,” says Mitchell, who has owned a beach house on Siesta Key for 20 years. He lives in Columbus, Ohio, where his company is headquartered. “I love Sarasota. So to build Ocean Prime and finally get the opportunity to do it ... at The Quay ... I’m excited about it.”

On the menu are steaks from filet mignon to Wagyu with options such as a blue-cheese crust, black truffle butter or Oscar style as well as seafood like teriyaki salmon in soy butter sauce and sea scallops in a citrus vinaigrette with Parmesan risotto.

“When I look at the Ocean Prime brand and this restaurant, there is nothing like it in Sarasota,” Mitchell says. “The cost we put into it, the finishes, everything, the menu and so forth.”

Sarasota’s Ocean Prime cost $10 million to construct. It spans 9,500 square feet in a brand-new building wrapping up construction along Quay Commons. Near The Ritz-

416401-1

The $10 million, two-story restaurant featuring waterfront views will debut on Dec. 21.

Home Features • • • •

1,768 - 3,422 Sq. Ft. 3 - 6 Bed | 2 - 5 Bath 1 - 2 Story 2 - 3 Car Garage

Planned Amenities • • • •

Pool & Cabana Playground Dog Park Butterfly Garden

Complimentary food and refreshments available while supplies last; minors must be accompanied by adults. All information (including, but not limited to prices, views, availability, school assignments and ratings, incentives, floor plans, site plans, features, standards and options, assessments and fees, planned amenities, programs, conceptual artists’ renderings, tax rates and community development plans) is not guaranteed and remains subject to change, or delay without notice. Square footage and dimensions are estimated and may vary in actual construction. As-Built Condition will control. Any community improvements, recreational features and amenities described are based upon current development plans, which are subject to change and under no obligation to be completed. Prices may not include lot premiums, upgrades and options depending on stage of construction. All homes are subject to prior sale. This is not an offering in any state where prohibited or otherwise restricted by law. Please see a Taylor Morrison Community Sales Manager for details and visit www.taylormorrison.com for additional state and community specific disclaimers, licensing details or other information (as applicable). © December 2024, Taylor Morrison of Florida, Inc. (“Sponsor”) CBC1259457 & CGC1529148. All rights reserved. 12/04/24 8987

436910-1

SarasotaOnline@taylormorrison.com | TiburonTM.com | 941.263.7036

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

15A

More than a Pro.

A Giver

Of Joy. Today, my Christmas wish comes true.

The season of giving calls.

I’m ready to make spirits bright.

With steady paws and a warm heart. . .

I bring hope, comfort, and joy.

Today, I light up the world as a true gift of hope.

Give the gift of hope this holiday season at dogsinc.org 436764-1

YourObserver.com

16A

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

TRIBUTES Museum, the Palma Sola Botanical Park, Yellowstone National Park and every dance school and troupe his daughter performed with.

And lest we forget, he was a life-long avid Gator fan.

Andy is survived by his wife, Beth Byron-Reasoner, his sons Ryan “Addison” (Holmes Beach, FL) and Byron “Tyler” (Los Angeles, CA), his daughter, Lauren who is currently attending the University of South Carolina, and daughter-in-law, Maya. He also leaves behind his brother, Alan “Ward” Reasoner, a sister, Elizabeth Rae Reasoner, sisters inlaw Theresa Reasoner and Laura Pfender and nieces and nephews including Justin and Jesse Reasoner, Evan Reasoner Pfender, and Aidan and Priya Sharma. He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, father-in-law, and family dogs Roxy and T-Bow – all of whom he plans on seeking out in heaven.

Samuel Anderson “Andy” Reasoner, 69, of Bradenton, FL passed away quietly on Wednesday, November 27 in hospice care at Sarasota Memorial Hospital after a short hospital stay. A (long-winded) storyteller and generous soul ‘til the end, he will be missed by all who knew him.

on SR 70 next to the Sam’s Club near 301. With the sale of that property, which has since been developed as a Racetrac, Andy reluctantly closed Royal Palm Nurseries and finished that chapter of Manatee County’s agricultural history. He worked tirelessly with the Smathers Library at the University of FL to provide old nursery catalogs, ledgers and family communications to offer the public one-of-a-kind research resources for native FL and exotic plants as well as some of the early history of Manatee County. Rather than retire after his horticultural career was over, Andy turned his energies to real estate development and built a 220-unit apartment complex, Royal Palm Terrace in Bradenton. He would often

say that the early years of that project took a decade off his life, but the now-thriving complex was a source of great personal pride and is the legacy he leaves his family.

Outside of work Andy was a Commissioner of the Cedar Hammock Fire Control District, had served as secretary/treasurer of the Southeast HS Athletic Boosters while his son was a student-athlete, was the President and member emeritus of the Southeast HS IB Parent Alliance, loved his time as a volunteer with the Youth Group at First Presbyterian, Sarasota, Bay Haven Odyssey of the Mind and Southeast High School TSA when his children were participants, supported the Manatee County Ag

SERVICE: Friends and family are invited to a celebration of life with a catered reception following at 3:00pm on Sunday, December 15th at First Presbyterian Church of Sarasota. Andy will be cremated, and his ashes will spend eternity throughout Yellowstone National Park.

DONATIONS: In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Manatee County Ag Museum (1015 6th St W, Palmetto, FL 34221 or www. manateecountyagmuseum. com/donate or the Palma Sola Botanical Park (P.O. Box 14214, Bradenton, FL 34280 or https://palmasolabp.org/ donate/).

437496-1

Andy was a fifth-generation nurseryman born in Bradenton, FL on November 28, 1954, to Rae Ferguson and Egbert “Bud” Reasoner.

He went to high school at the Culver Military Academy in northern Indiana where he played football and polo and was a proud member of the Black Horse Troop.

He went on to earn a BS in Tropical Horticulture from the University of FL and served as the class spokesman of the first Leadership Manatee class sponsored by the Manatee County Chamber of Commerce. He did his part to carry on the rich Reasoner family history in Manatee County as owner of Andy Reasoner’s Royal Palm Nurseries. After years of wrangling with county government about property taxes for historic structures, Andy grudgingly sold Beth Salem, the iconic 2-story green Victorian family homestead built in 1896 that had been converted to his business offices located

Jack Rohner 1922-2024

Jack Rohner, 101, of Sarasota, FL, formerly of Inverness, IL passed away peacefully on December 2, 2024. Born December 22, 1922, to Katherine Engenhart and Frank Rohner, he was raised in Chicago, IL. Jack served his country with honor in the Army Air Corps during WWII, stationed in North Africa and Italy.

Jack is preceded in death

by Helen, his cherished wife of 70 years. He is survived by a loving family who will forever cherish his memory: his daughter Barbara (Tony) Franke, his grandchildren Peter Franke (Karen), Katherine Holland (John), and his great-grandchildren Caro-

line, Matthew, Ryan, George, and Avery.

Jack will be remembered for his unwavering work ethic, generosity, quick wit, and steadfast devotion to his family and loved ones.

SERVICE: Visitation and funeral mass was held on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 9:30 am, at Holy Family Catholic Church, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness, IL. Interment St. Michael the Archangel Cemetery DONATIONS: In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Geneva Lake Conservancy Helen Rohner Children’s Fishing Park.

Arrangements entrusted to Smith-Corcoran Funeral Home. For info, 847-359-8020. www.smithcorcoran.com 437514-1

Samuel Anderson “Andy” Reasoner 1954-2024

EYELID LIFT WITHOUT THE NEED FOR SURGERY

www.LeatherGallerySarasota.com

www.LeatherGallerySarasota.com r 14-15 e b m www.LeatherGallerySarasota.com e c De

“Plexr Plasma-based technology is terrific for removal of extra skin and targeted wrinkle reduction without the need for surgery, and much less expensive than typical surgery costs. For indications like eyelid lifts, neck lifts, crow’s feet and smoker’s lines it’s a great option.”

- Dr. Sam

SAVE UP TO www.LeatherGallerySarasota.com

OFF SAVE UP TO SAVE UP TO STOREWIDE

Don’t need an actual eyelid lift, but want to improve your skin quality?

By using different techniques, Plexr® Plasma energy can sprinkle the skin with tiny plasma bolts. Gently tighten your skin and promote months of collagen production to slow the signs of aging!

SAVE UP TO

OFF OFF OFF STOREWIDE

SCAN TO SEE ARTICLE & VIDEO

STOREWIDE STOREWIDE

Services: Plexr Plasma, Injectables,

941-993-1057

Facials, Skin Resurfacing, Weight Loss

Saturday 10-6 • Sunday 12-5 5251 S. Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) • Sarasota, FL 34231 1.5 miles south of Bee Ridge Rd. FO-34206816

941-993-1057

941-993-1057 5251 S. Tamiami Tr. Sarasota, FL

435310-1

Saturday 10-6 Sunday 12-5

5537 Marquesas Circle, Sarasota | Phone: (941)202-4051 info@warmsandswellness.com | warmsandswellness.com

429401-1

Medical Director Dr. Sam Uzabel

DECEMBER 12, 2024

SPORTS

“It felt like I was back to where I was supposed to be, doing what I loved doing and it just felt great to be back with the team.”

— Talia Busser, junior, Cardinal Mooney High varsity basketball. SEE PAGE 19A

Fast

Break

THE STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

THE END OF THE ROAD

Cardinal Mooney and Booker High fell just short of a trip to Miami to compete for a state title. Here are the teams that made the championship game.

CLASS 3A FHSAA CHAMPIONSHIP Raines High (13-0) will face off against Miami’s Northwestern High (11-2) 7:30 p.m. Dec. 14 at South Dade Kia Field at Pitbull Stadium CLASS 2A FHSAA CHAMPIONSHIP Cocoa (10-3) plays. Havana Gadsden County (13-1) 12:30 p.m. Dec. 12 at South Dade Kia Field at Pitbull Stadium

Cardinal Mooney junior quarterback Devin Mignery reacts his team’s 31-21 loss to Cocoa High in the semifinal game of the Class 2A FHSAA State Championship tournament.

Mignery had one passing touchdown and one rushing touchdown in the loss.

File photo

Former Riverview swimmer Addison Sauickie made her freshman debut for Stanford last month.

T

he Sarasota High girls varsity basketball team ended a three-game skid when it defeated Manatee (2-4) 48-33 at home on Dec. 9. The Sailors (4-4) head to Riverview to face the Rams (3-1) on Dec. 12 at 7:30 p.m. As of Dec. 7, the boys varsity team is on a roll (6-1) after defeating Cape Coral Mariner (0-7) 76-45. ... As of Dec. 6, the Riverview girls varsity soccer team (7-1) has been perfect at home this season, winning six straight, including its 3-2 defeat of Naples Gulf Coast (3-7-1) that day. Senior strikers Rachel Paule and Bailey Springman both scored once and junior midfielder Oliva Shkorupa added in an assist and a goal of her own in the win. Paule and Springman are tied atop the Rams’ leaderboard for most goals scored on the year with five apiece. On the boys’ side, the Rams fell to 3-4 when they lost 5-2 to Gulf Coast (4-5-1) on Dec. 6. ... As of Dec. 6, the Booker boys varsity basketball team brought its record to 2-2 after defeating Venice 55-45. ... Stanford freshman swimmer and Riverview alum Addison Sauickie posted a personal best time of 22.93 in the 50-yard freestyle prelims of the Texas Hall of Fame Invitational in Austin, Texas on Nov. 20. Sauickie, who helped lead Riverview to three consecutive 4A state titles in 2021, 2022 and 2023, is next set to face off against UCLA at home on Jan. 17, 2025. ... The Riverview girls varsity weightlifting team traveled to Sarasota High to square off against the Sailors on Dec. 5. The Rams defeated Sarasota 55-26 in the Olympic classification and 5235 in the Traditional classification.

SAILORS’ HOOPS RATE INTENSITY PAGE 18A

Cardinal Mooney, Booker High football both fall in the semifinals of state tournaments.

DYLAN CAMPBELL SPORTS REPORTER

F

or the first time all season, Cardinal Mooney High football appeared to be mortal. It’s evident its opponent, the Cocoa High Tigers, was a different animal from the first time Cocoa’s offense took the field.

After forcing a Cardinal Mooney three-and-out to open the game, Cocoa found itself buried on a third and 20 on its own 39-yard line.

The Cougars seemed primed to pounce, until Cocoa junior quarterback Brady Hart read the pass rush, stepped up in the pocket and delivered a strike to senior wide receiver Jayvan Boggs, who broke through for a 61-yard touchdown.

Suddenly, Cardinal Mooney, which hadn’t lost a game since Oct. 20, 2023, found itself in trouble. That trouble continued until the final whistle, when Mooney lost to Cocoa 31-21 in the semifinals of the Class 2A FHSAA Football State Championship tournament.

What Cardinal Mooney displayed in the defeat, however, goes beyond the box score, said head coach Jared Clark. The Cougars were down by multiple touchdowns twice in the first half — Cardinal Mooney entered the second quarter down 14-0, before junior quarterback Devin Mignery ran in a 9-yard touchdown.

Down 21-7 with 8:39 left in the second quarter, Cardinal Mooney immediately answered with a 78-yard touchdown pass on the first play on its next drive.

“Our guys love each other and they weren’t going to stop fighting,” said Clark. “It was so good to see them get in a battle like this and just not quit.

I couldn’t be more proud of the way they fought. They’re playing against an extremely talented team that’s run through everybody as well — we were in a dogfight and thought we responded really well, we just came up a couple of plays short.”

As devastating a loss as it is for Cardinal Mooney, it still is an encouraging sign of what’s coming.

The Cougars more than held their own against a Cocoa team that was by far the most talented Cardinal Mooney had played all year.

The Tigers’ roster is littered with high-end Division 1 talent. Cocoa’s four-star quarterback, Hart, committed to play at Texas A&M. Boggs, who had three touchdown receptions, is a four-star recruit by 247 Sports Composite and committed to Florida State University. Senior edge rusher Javion Hilson and senior safety Clifton Hester are both four-

Photos by Dylan Campbell

star recruits.

Cocoa did not outclass Cardinal Mooney, only beaten. The Cougars were clearly battered from a long season — sophomore running back Connail Jackson returned after leaving the previous game with an injury and Mignery, though hobbled on the sideline, never showed it on the field.

While the Cougars are losing several key seniors, they will return in 2025 with much of the roster that has made the team a powerhouse in the region. For Cardinal Mooney, that alone is a reason for hope.

BOOKER HIGH

Booker was here last year. On the doorstep of a state title game, a regional champion with everything to prove. Last year, however, Booker had nothing to lose.

The Tornadoes snuck into the state championship tournament as a seven seed, surprising the world as regional champions. Losing to the eventual state champions, Cocoa, was a letdown, but not a disappointment.

This year, Booker had everything to lose. A two seed in the Class 3A state championship tournament, Booker had run roughshod over its opponents all season with a 10-3 record, thanks to a bevy of transfer talent on its star-studded roster.

So when the Tornadoes lost to Jacksonville’s Raines 28-23 in the state semifinal after leading 23-14 at the half, it felt different.

“I have to find a way for us to get back to the drawing board and say, ‘OK, this is what went wrong’,” said head coach Scottie Littles, who was ejected from the game in the third quarter after a dispute with the officials. “We lost to a top-15 team in the

state and we were leading for most of the game. What I’ve got to figure out as a coach is how do we find a way to get our players to finish?”

That question will linger into the offseason as Littles and his staff look to build off Booker’s recent success, despite the departure of key seniors.

Some of the offense’s biggest stars, like quarterback Ryan Downes, running backs DJ Johnson and Rashawn Peterson, will graduate in 2025.

So too will some of Booker’s top defenders, including defensive lineman Jordan Radkey, who totaled 10 sacks and outside linebacker Dajien Walton with nine sacks.

Cornerback Abraham Brown III, who holds multiple Division 1 offers, will also graduate.

Littles is confident in Booker’s ability to bounce back, however. Still returning are many of the team’s top skill position players — wide receiver Tyren Wortham, the team’s leader, will be a senior in 2025 and wideout Tyree Mannings Jr., who had 11 touchdowns in the regular season, will be a sophomore next season.

Four-star, two-way player Chauncey Kennon will return next season as will two-way athlete Dylan Wester. Stepping into Downes’ role as quarterback will be Joel Morris, a 6-foot-3 junior who already holds multiple Division 1 offers, according to Littles and 247sports.com.

“As a staff, we’re excited to continue to build on what we have and see where it takes us,” said Littles. “One thing I know for sure is the entire state of Florida knows about Booker. Our goal will not change from year to year — it’s to win a state championship and that’s what we plan on doing.”

Booker senior defensive lineman Jordan Radkey (55) celebrates with his teammates during Booker’s 43-7 win over Nature Coast Tech on Nov. 22.

18A

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

CAMPBELL’S CORNER

DYLAN CAMPBELL

Sarasota boys basketball seeks consecutive district titles Third-year head coach BJ Ivey has high hopes for his team this season.

S

arasota High boys varsity basketball head coach BJ Ivey is an artist. Not in the literal sense — Ivey is the athletic director at Sarasota High, not the art teacher — but in the basketball sense.

Everything at the Sailors practice on Dec. 3 is color coded, from the jerseys the players wear — orange for much of the starting lineup and black for the rest of the team — to the practice schedule, timed out with militaristic efficiency, to the effort level of his players.

While orange and black might be Sarasota High’s colors, green, gray and red are the colors that matter most in Ivey’s gym.

These colors indicate a player’s

Sarasota High boys varsity basketball head coach BJ Ivey holds his players to a high standard.

intensity level — green is for a player that exceeds the expectations of the team’s five standards, gray is for the players that meet the bare minimum of what Ivey expects from his team and red signifies a glaring issue in the player’s behavior. Prior to the practice, 11 members of the team voted that three players were green 90% of the time.

The trick, Ivey said, is turning every gray player into a green one.

“The guys come up with what they feel our green standards are and we hold them accountable to that all year,” said Ivey. “The standards should help us accomplish our goals that we’ve set. This season, our five standards are EGBS, or having energy generating behaviors, staying positive with one another, being diligent in our work every day, holding each other accountable for our actions and being selfless as teammates.”

So far, Ivey’s system of standards has worked. In 2022, his first year with the team, Ivey led the Sailors to a 21-6 record before losing the Class 7A-District 12 title game 52-49 to Riverview. Last season, Sarasota ran the table, posting a 24-3 record en route to a dominant 63-36 victory over North Port in the district championship game. As of Dec. 8, Sarasota has a 5-1 record, with its only loss to IMG Academy on Nov. 19.

This year, Ivey’s team looks a little different in its quest for backto-back district titles. Gone are several of the key seniors that made the Sailors’ run possible. Franklin Liriano, who led Sarasota in assists per game with 3.2 and was third in points per game at 10.3, has graduated. Michael Drayton, a 6-foot-3 forward who averaged 12.9 points per game, good for second on the

team, has moved on, and 6-foot-6 Danny Munn, the team’s secondleading rebounding at 3.8 per game, is also gone.

Despite the departure of his key seniors, Ivey believes in the strengths of his team.

“I think that our culture is really close to what we had last year, but I’d say that this season our guys’ skill sets complement each other a little more than last year,” said Ivey.

“Last year, I felt like we had a couple of guys that were really good at a certain style that not everyone else was good at. There was a little more to be done in finding that balance between styles whereas this year it seems like everybody’s natural way of playing meshes together.”

Stepping into larger roles this season for Sarasota are sophomore guard Johnny Lackaff and senior forward Oliver Boyle. Lackaff, who led the team in scoring last season with 13.0 points per game, remains the focal point of the Sailors offense.

His growth — Lackaff put on roughly 10 pounds of muscle in the offense to jump from 165 to 175 pounds — has been more than just a physical maturation, said Ivey.

“He’s matured a lot as a leader and in understanding how to lead,” said Ivey. “Last season, he did a great job of leading by example — he’s in the gym every morning at 6 a.m. working his tail off. Everybody knows how hard he works. This year, he’s doing a much better job of being an encourager and also an enforcer, holding his teammates accountable when he needs to.”

Boyle, who led the Sailors in rebounds per game last season with 6.7, is a tenacious 6-foot-3 small forward who transferred to Sarasota from Riverview as a sophomore, the

Give the Gift that Keeps on Zipping!

Photos by Dylan Campbell

Junior forward David Young rises up for a layup during the Sarasota High boys varsity basketball practice on Dec. 3.

same year Ivey took over as head coach.

Now in his third year with the program, Boyle’s experience has allowed him to function as a coach on the court, he said. While knocking down shots with his midrange jump shot is important, his ability to rebound and get his other teammates involved is tantamount to the team’s success. It’s a style of play that resembles Sarasota’s teamfirst attitude.

“We really try to instill the values of you have to be a star in your role,” said Boyle. “No matter if you’re a practice player or a starter, your role is just as important as the guy next to you. Without you, this team isn’t complete.”

well — Lackaff praises transfer junior forward David Young for his rebounding, before it turns spicy.

Boyle tells a teammate to increase his effort on the pick and roll. None of it is personal, the teammates embrace afterwards, but all of it is integral to the team’s success. Last season, Boyle said, the team readily gave out sugar, but struggled to dish out the hot sauce. This year, that’s far from the case.

“We were scared of conflict,” said Boyle. “We understand that to be the team we want to be, we have to have uncomfortable conversations.

We have to have conflict and if we can make it through that, we’re going to be stronger for it.”

BRINGING THE HEAT

Every practice at Sarasota ends with the same ritual: sugar and hot sauce. The players gather around in a circle at center court and hold one another accountable. It starts off sweet — members of the team tell each other what the others did

Dylan Campbell is the sports reporter for the Sarasota/ Siesta Key Observer.

Contact him at DCampbell@ Your Observer.com.

?

INTERESTED IN...

AI, CYBERSECURITY or CLOUD COMPUTING

Begin Your Career Today with our Bootcamps Starting January 2025 With the vital role that technology plays in our lives, the tech and software fields have increasing demand for skilled talents.

Our 16-Week Bootcamps Give You: Online Instructor-Led Training Key Skills Employers are Seeking

5 STARS

Zip•Climb Swing•Soar

Industry Certifications

“This place is awesome.

My teens loved it, the courses progressively get harder. It is definitely a workout!”

The Ground Is Overrated BRADENTON

Text 941-322-2130 www.TreeUmph.com

SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE!

SCAN TO LEARN MORE & APPLY TODAY

– Google Reviews

GET 10% OFF* YOURS SAVE $50* ON ANNUAL PASSES Fly all year for a fraction of the price!

Save on the perfect stocking stuffer!

Regularly $300 — Now just $250!

*Cannot be combined with any other offer.

*Cannot be combined with any other offer.

CODING@SCF.EDU or 941-752-5160

420592-1

Available Nov 13 – Dec 25.

AT

treeumph.com

431549-1

HOLIDAY GIFT CERTIFICATES

YourObserver.com

What’s the appeal?

I like all the movement and getting to run up and down the court. I’m not a fan of the slow game, so playing a high-paced sport and using explosive moments is probably what I like most about it.

What’s your best skill on the court?

Definitely my shooting. I’ve put a lot of hard work into it and it’s always one of my higher statistical areas.

What’s your favorite basketball memory?

My favorite basketball memory is probably the first day of practice after I came back from my injury.

I broke my foot in two places and came back a month after the state championship game. It felt like I was back to where I was supposed to be, doing what I loved doing, and it just felt great to be back with the team.

What’s going right for Cardinal Mooney this season?

Our chemistry is improving. We’ve had a lot of transfers and we’re learning how to play together a

What’s your favorite food?

Most definitely pizza. I like sausage and pepperoni or meat lovers.

What’s your favorite movie or television show?

“Grey’s Anatomy” is one of my favorites. I’ve watched it three times over.

handcrafted for your holiday gatherings

What are your hobbies?

I love to go to the beach. I just lay out in the sun.

What’s the best advice that you’ve received?

To always keep shooting the ball.

Sometimes, it’s hard to keep shooting when you’ve missed a couple, but my coaches always remind me to just keep shooting and that they’ll fall down eventually.

15% OFF ALL IN STOCK ITEMS IN STOCK FURNITURE + GIFTS

20% OFF OUTDOOR POLY FURNITURE IN STOCK FURNITURE + SPECIAL ORDERS

Finish this sentence. Talia Busser is ...

A hard worker.

Sale does not include previous purchases, custom, or Miller’s Cabinetry. Sale may not be combined with other offers or discounts. Ends December 31, 2024.

3737 Bahia Vista St. Sarasota, FL 34232 - 941.952.5646 6100 N Lockwood Ridge Rd. Sarasota, FL 34243 - 941.960.2942

dutchhausfurniture.com 432606-1

When did you start playing basketball and why?

I started playing basketball in kindergarten. Both of my parents played basketball in high school, so it’s just something that I’ve always done.

little bit better than in the beginning of the year. We’re getting a lot of ball movement and scoring from all areas on the floor.

19A

A TOWN CENTER. AN EXPERIENCE. A LIFESTYLE. 10 Restaurants + More Coming // 13 Boutiques + Businesses // 8 Beauty + Wellness Services // 200+ Events Each Year // Trails + Recreation at Waterside Park // Explore With a Drink on the Go*

Explore THE DIRECTORY:

Sarasota’s Lakefront Town Center

1561 Lakefront Drive, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34240 FIND YOUR FUN @ WatersidePlace.com

*The Beverages in the Street program allows patrons to walk around with alcoholic beverages purchased from participating vendors within the town center.

436928-1

Talia Busser is a junior guard for the Cardinal Mooney High girls’ varsity basketball team. Busser, who transferred to Cardinal Mooney from Parrish Community High after her freshman year, is a viable threat for the Cougars from beyond the arc. Busser scored a season high 22 points against Fort Myers Evangelical Christian, going six for nine from the three point line.

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

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Talia Busser

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

LUXURY REAL ESTATE DEFINED

SOLD – REPRESENTED BUYER

280 GOLDEN GATE POINT, PENTHOUSE #2

$8,100,000

AQUA - GOLDEN GATE POINT oin

OVER $158 MILLION SOLD AND PENDING IN 2024 OVER $164 MILLION SOLD AND PENDING IN 2023

PRICE IMPROVEMENT NO STORM DAMAGE $4,495,000

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 12/15 | 1 – 4 P.M. $1,145,000

$6,100,000

1003 WESTWAY DRIVE LIDO KEY

815 TROPICAL CIRCLE SIESTA KEY

JUST LISTED $4,150,000

415 L AMBIANCE DRIVE #C403 L’AMBIANCE – LONGBOAT KEY

7738 CALLE FACIL PRESTANCIA

JUST LISTED $625,000

4501 MURCIA BOULEVARD PRESTANCIA

1051 WESTWAY DRIVE LIDO KEY

$3,600,000

NO. 1 TEAM for Premier Sotheby’s International Realty in Sarasota

$2,850,000

NO. 2 SMALL TEAM

NO. 19 SMALL TEAM

by sales volume in Sarasota

by sales volume in Florida

TOP 100 in sales volume by Sotheby’s International Realty® 2021 – 2023

ROBERTS POINT ROAD SARASOTA

To find out more about our recordbreaking luxury sales and how we can work for you, scan the QR code.

Joel Schemmel, J.D., REALTOR® Joel.Schemmel@PremierSIR.com 941.587.4894 SCHEMMELSODAGROUP.COM

With expert market knowledge and unparalleled team resources, I can provide the highest level of service throughout the buying and selling process for customers on the barrier islands, mainland neighborhoods, and in the area’s golf course and master-planned communities, including Lakewood Ranch and Palmer Ranch.

CONTACT ME TODAY TO SCHEDULE A PRIVATE, COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION TO DISCUSS THE CURRENT MARKET AND YOUR REAL ESTATE HOLDINGS. Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. Property information herein is derived from various sources, including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate. Source: Stellar MLS; RealTrends Verified 2024.

431938-1

20A

Classifieds 17B Games 16B Real Estate 13B Weather 16B

DECEMBER 12, 2024

YOUR NEIGHBORS

Photos by Ian Swaby

Samoor Grotto members Jon and Sandy Lewis, Monarch Tom Davie, Clara Rojas and Debbie Maust Santa Claus offers gifts to the kids on the Big Cat Habitat float, including Elijah Frey, 8 (second from left).

Holiday and community spirit T

Hans Ocampo, Oliver Ocampo, 2, Yahoira Ocampo and Dominic Ocampo, 4, meet Santa Claus.

Emilia Wilson, 9, and Rocket, walked with the Humane Society of Sarasota County.

Tasman Henry, a senior with Sailor Circus Academy, was a stilt walker in the parade.

— IAN SWABY

418265-1

A Santa’s Workshop vehicle approaches.

he Sarasota Holiday Parade Dec. 7 featured the man in the red suit — Santa Claus.

Yet it was also a showcase of Sarasota, with organizations and businesses in the area having the chance to put their community spirit on display.

For instance, Terry Deshaies, riding with The Dark Side — Comics & Games, enjoys dressing as Freddie Mercury and leading the crowds in chants of “Ay-Oh!” each year.

Among the many participants featured were animals from the Humane Society of Sarasota County, talented students from organizations, including Sailor Circus Academy and the giant puppets of CreArte Latino.

Monarch Tom Davie of Samoor Grotto, a Masonic organization that helps special needs children with dental issues, said the parade was important for making the community aware of the organization’s presence.

“We’ve been here quite a number of years, over and over and over again,” he said. “They finally recognize who we are. You’ve got to continue. You can’t show up once and not go do it again. We like it. It’s our hometown, so why wouldn’t we?

We’re part of the community.”

Katlyn Turner of Acro Fit Gymnastics called the parade a “really good team bonding experience” for the organization’s young gymnasts.

“We love the holiday parade,” she said. “The Sarasota Holiday Parade organization does such an amazing job every year. We have a really good time.”

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

Photos by Ian Swaby

Selby Gardens President and CEO Jennifer Rominiecki, Cecelia Grove and her daughter, Aria Grove, 7, and Linda Carson of ABC7 Sarasota lead the flipping of the switch.

Switching on the season D

Approachable.

espite the challenges posed by two major hurricanes, flowers and holiday lights are still in bloom at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.

During a Wednesday evening preview event, attendees had the chance to explore the display Lights in Bloom, which opened to visitors Dec. 6.

Created by Phil and Carolyn Babas of the Bradenton company Affairs in the Air, Lights in Bloom has been ranked by USA Today as one of the nation’s best botanical garden holiday shows.

“This year, our team had the herculean effort of installing Lights in Bloom in the wake of two major hurricanes,” Jennifer Rominiecki, president and CEO of Selby Gardens, told crowds. “On behalf of the board, we are so thrilled that our entire Downtown Sarasota Campus has reopened and will be aglow shortly with 2 million lights.”

The foundation teams with Selby Gardens for the Family Togetherness program, allowing families who would not otherwise have the chance to do so, the opportunity to visit the site.

Experienced.

We Are The Money Managers.

— IAN SWABY

4

Technology

800+

1 Billion

DECADES IN BUSINESS

CLIENTS

Lights in Bloom features over 2 million lights.

Shak Teymuri and his daughter, Celine Teymuri, 2, enjoy the festive scene.

STATE OF THE ART

DOLLARS IN ASSETS

*as of November 30, 2024

WE’RE HERE FOR WHEN YOU NEED US

The Home Service P ros Who Care

24 HOUR

Emergency Service

HVAC | ELECTRIC | PLUMBING | WATER TREATMENT

HELP YOUR SINK HANDLE ALL THE EXTRA DISHES THIS HOLIDAY SEASON with a new PRO750 Garbage Disposer.

50 OFF purchase and installation of PRO750 Garbage Disposer

$

Not vALid with ANy othEr oFFEr or PromotioN. ExPirEs 1/5/2025

JLBAINBRIDGE.COM

Always a good experience. Great from setting appointments to service, and then follow up.

941.365.3435

Learn more about what we do.

21,171 REVIEWS

941.366.7676

www.aquaplumbing.com

Lic # cAc1816020 • PLbg cFc1428223 • ELEc Ec13009313

437549-1

1582 MAIN STREET SARASOTA, FL 34236

436954-1

2B

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

3B

Holiday sounds and sculpture LEARN ABOUT THEIR ROLE AS THE KEY CONNECTOR FOR CULTURE AND ARTS IN OUR REGION

PRESENTERS

T

Friday, December 13, 2024 From 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

Students from Phillippi Shores Elementary School, including fifth graders Matthew Vinson and Kadence Butler, and fourth grader Genevieve Stickley, offer a performance.

Sarasota Middle School freshman Eric Glushonkov performs on saxophone with the Southside Elementary band led by his father, Sergei Glushonkov.

727 Hudson Avenue Sarasota, FL 34236 (AL#8979)

432192-1

hird grader Gwyneth Crawford said she felt welcomed by the audience’s applause, as her choir from Phillippi Shores Elementary performed in the courtyard of the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art on Dec. 5.

She called the experience of Holiday Splendor at The Ringling “wonderful.”

“I don’t know what to say, because, honestly, it was pretty fun,” she said. “It really just blew my mind that it was my first time here, and I did really well.”

While showcasing student performances and offering families the chance for free photos with Santa, the event drove donations to Toys for Tots, a U.S. Marine Corps Reserve organization, which were present on-site.

Admission fees were not required for attendees bringing an unwrapped toy.

Last year, the event brought in about $40,000 worth of toys, according to Marci Boland, director of events at The Ringling.

Students and organizations appreciated the chance for more community exposure.

Kelly’s legendary Roast Beef Sandwiches and Fresh New England Seafood.

— IAN SWABY

IF YOU GO 5 p.m., Dec. 12, at John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road.

Free with one unwrapped toy per person.

Without a toy donation: adults, $15; kids. $5.

Visit Ringling. org.

It’s the MOST

Wonderful YEAR!

426336-1

Drive Thru • Open Sun-Thu: 11am to 8pm and Fri-Sat: 11am to 9pm

The Square at UTC Next to to CVS pharmacy • 5407 University Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34201 KellysRoastBeef.com • 941-263-1911 • @Kellysroastbeef_FL

Time of the

Shop with us for the perfect gift including

TUPELO TOTES

LARGE SELECTION OF

IN-STOCK AND

READY TO DELIVER

FURNITURE

VISIT OUR NEWLY EXPANDED SHOWROOM 7606 S. Tamiami Tr. Ste. 101 (1/2 mi. South of Clark Rd. on 41) • 941-217-6547 SARASOTA • BONITA SPRINGS • NAPLES WWW.ELEGANTOUTDOORS.COM

FOLLOW US

FOLLOW US FOR EXCLUSIVE HOLIDAY DEALS AND A CHANCE TO WIN A FIRE PIT!

437418-1

Photos by Ian Swaby

Kay Wygal and George Hein meet Santa Claus.

HU

OPPER T R S E NG

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

Holiday spectacle with a purpose

IMPLANT & AESTHETIC DENTISTRY

The 50th Annual Singing Christmas Tree Spectacular featured a nativity scene with live animals, a former Broadway performer and more.

Oral Surgery, Periodontal, Restorative, Dental Hygiene Trust your oral health to a specialist IMPLANT SURGERY

ESTHETIC GUM GRAFTING

EXTRACTIONS BONE GRAFTING

COSMETIC VENEERS CROWNS

IAN SWABY

IMPLANT TEETH

STAFF WRITER

E

Providing simple to complex specialty dental care in one convenient location

HARRY F. HARING III DMD

MAGGIE MISCHHARING DMD, MS

KATHERINE E. MISCH DMD

CRAIG M. MISCH DDS, MDS

SPECIALIST IN PROSTHODONTICS AND FULL MOUTH ESTHETICS

SPECIALIST IN PERIODONTICS & IMPLANT SURGERY

SPECIALIST IN PROSTHODONTICS AND TEETH IN A DAY

Minimally invasive periodontal and implant surgical techniques to improve patients’ oral health

Over 30 years experience with an eye for achieving a natural perfection in dental implant restorations

SPECIALIST IN ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY & PROSTHODONTICS

Master clinician using the latest technology to artistically transform smiles using veneers and crowns

International lecturer, faculty at Univ. of Michigan, U of F & PENN, author of numerous scientific publications and textbooks

A Family-Owned Dental Speciality Practice

CHECK OUR REVIEWS ONLINE

www.drmisch.com

941.957.6444

425423-1

120 South Tuttle Ave Sarasota, FL 34237

ven for those who already can picture a singing Christmas tree, there was something they wouldn’t have anticipated seeing during the 50th Annual Singing Christmas Tree Spectacular.

The performance, featuring a large centerpiece styled as a Christmas tree adorned with over 10,000 lights that holds church choir members, has grown in scale in its 50 years.

For the third year in a row, a segment of the performance depicting the Nativity featured live animals, including camels and sheep, walking the church aisles, while the show also welcomed former Broadway performer J. Mark McVey. Yet, Senior Pastor Dr. John Cross believes what defines the appeal of the singing tree is its focal point.

“I believe it’s the star, not the star that we might think of, but the star is Jesus, and Jesus promised that if we lift him up, then he would draw people to Himself,” he said.

Since the tradition began at the 122-year-old church, it has been reimagined with a more elaborate production. The experience brings together church members, from dancers to soloists, while depicting scenes that include the Nativity and the arrival of Santa Claus.

Cross said they are grateful to their staff team that begins planning months in advance, including volunteers in various roles, attendants who serve roles from ushers to parking attendants, and the performers themselves, with about 250 people being involved.

Courtney West, the church’s director of modern worship and a

Ian Swaby

soloist in the performance, shared his gratitude.

“There’s a great spirit amongst all of those involved, who truly love this city and who want their friends, their family, their co-workers, who maybe aren’t as familiar with the Christmas story to come and experience it for themselves,” she said. “And so that’s why they put forth all the months of effort.”

One committed member of First Sarasota’s community is Melva Hipps, 80, who has sung in all 50 shows. She was raised in the church, joining the adult choir as soon as she was old enough to do so.

“I think it just helps keep me stay grounded in what Christmas is all about and celebrating Jesus’ birth and what it means to the world … ” she said. “It just seems unreal that it’s been 50 years, but it’s been so enjoyable, and things every year have been different, and it’s just been a special time to see all the different people and how it affects their lives and their celebration of Christmas too.”

J. Mark McVey said he enjoys the welcoming community of First Sarasota The Bonita Springs resident performed in “Les Miserables” on Broadway, in the role of Jean Valjean, thousands of times, but ultimately gave up theater in 2012 to focus on concert work, including church performances around the country.

The 50th Annual Singing Christmas Tree Spectacular begins with a solo by Walter Godfrey.

NEW MODELS NOW OPEN UNLOCK THE DOOR

TO AMENITY-RICH LIVING

Single Family Homes Approx. 2,078-3,733 SF From $700's Quick Move-Ins Available

www.homesbytowne.com

3 Model Homes to Tour

941-361-2536

2 Amenity Centers Lakes Trails Parks

436568-1

4B

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

PET PICS Have photos of your four-legged family members? We want to see them!

Share them at YourObserver.com/Contests/Pet-Pics to be published online and for a chance to see them in print!

MORE COMFORTABLE TOGETHER: Wilbur and Tesla can sleep heavy any time of the day in Gulf Gate, Sarasota.

5B

ISPR GOVERNING BOARD MEETING Tuesday, December 17th • Noon Imagine School at Palmer Ranch

To Join By Computer: https://imagineschools.zoom.us/j/9031606808 Meeting ID: 903 160 6808 | Password: Team

Top 10% in Math in the State!

Call TODAY for tour!

IMAGINE SCHOOL AT PALMER RANCH Academics • Character • Leadership

431651-1

Tuition Free Charter School • 6220 McIntosh Rd • Sarasota, FL 34238 (941) 923-1125 • www.ImagineSchoolsPalmerRanch.org

DO YOU KNOW WHERE THIS PERSON IS?

JR, WANTED SMITH MICHAEL SUSPECT BERNARD

BATTERY BY PERSON DETAINED IN PRISON OR JAIL FACILITY, UNLAWFUL ACTIVITY IN CLOSED PUBLIC PARK

CASH REWARDS FOR ANONYMOUS TIPS THAT LEAD TO AN ARREST

ATIFANEY&SON•A.PARKSCAN HERE TO SUBMIT A TIP OR 941-366-TIPS ER’SBOOKSINC•ALEXARTINTEROUR SarasotaCrimeStoppers.com DOWNLOAD FREE MOBILE APP NATIONALARTGALLERY•AMARJEWELRY•ARTTOWALKON•ARTISTICACCENTS•BLUEMERCURY•BOCABARGOONS•BOOKSTORE1SARASOTA•BOWMANORIGINALS•BURKEANTIQUESLLC•CAMILYNBETHLLC•CHAR$250OFF LOTTE’SGRACEFINELINENS•CREA $2495 $500OFF TUROSTUDIO|GALLERY•DARCI•EI BLINDS | SHADES | SHUTTERS $3995 LEENFISHER•ELEGANZASARASO TA•ESTATECOIN&JEWELRYGALLE RIA•EVELYN&ARTHUR•FIT2RUN•FRIEND’SJEWELERSINC•GREINER’SFINEMEN’SCLOTHING•HAPPYFEETPLUS•ITALIANIDEA•J. MCLAUGHLIN•JUNESIMMONSMIRASOL SHUTTERS $29* SQFT INSTALLED JEWELRY•KROOZELECTRICBICYCLES•LIFEWORX•LOTUS•MAINREPAIR OR REPLACE, THIS IS THE PLACE. STREETKITCHENANDBATH•MCNew Construction • Remodels CARVER&MOSERSARASOTAMotorization • Replacement • Repairs JEWLERS•MEGKRAKOWIAKGALFREE IN-HOME CONSULTATIONS! downtownsarasotadid.com 941-373-9900 LERY&STUDIO•1592WOODFIREDdowntowndid@sarasotafl.gov KITCHEN&COCKTAILS•AMALAVITA•BARHANA•BLOCK15CORK&436977-1 402842-1

PD BY CSTF

Scan the QR Code to visit the DID’s Merchant Directory

Premium Retailer

Does not include plantation shutters.

Other restrictions may apply.

Subject to change without notice.

Must mention ad at time of scheduling consultation.

HunterDouglas Silhouette

L VE L CAL

HunterDouglas Luminette

S H O P • D I N E • EXPLO R E

Step into the heart of Sarasota and experience a vibrant mix of unique boutiques, artisanal shops, and specialty stores. With over 450 merchants to explore within the Downtown Improvement District, you’ll find everything from exclusive fashion and handcrafted jewelry to curated art and home decor treasures.

*Standard window openings, standard installation included.

Fleece or Aspen colors only. Additional charges may apply

Savor the flavors of downtown! Whether you’re craving a casual bite at a cozy café, an elegant evening at a fine dining restaurant, or a lively al fresco meal, Sarasota’s downtown culinary scene has something for every palate. Enjoy chef-inspired dishes, fresh local ingredients, and unforgettable dining experiences.

Locally owned & operated for over 20 years.

TWO Locations to Serve You - Sarasota & Brandon! | www.doctorblindsfl.com

433214-1

Blind & Shade Store

@DowntownSarasotaDID

436356-1

Your adventure in shopping, dining, and exploring awaits!

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

IT’S READ EVERYWHERE

REGISTER TODAY!

Headed on a trip? Snap a photo of you on vacation holding your Observer, then submit your photo online at YourObserver.com/ ItsReadEverywhere. Stay tuned for this year’s prize, and happy travels!

th 25

ANNIVERSARY

CHALLENGE

ROCKIN’ IN GREECE: Sue Lehrer with the Sarasota Observer in Meteora, Greece.

Designer Roller Shades Large Square Cassette 2.0 in Birch PowerView® Automation, PowerView® Motorization

JANUARY 17-19, 2025

BLINDS•SHUTTERS DRAPERIES•WALLCOVERINGS

SPECIAL GRAND PRIZE

heraldtribune.com

WINNER

Exclusive Dinner, Wine for Four at the famous Maison Blanche

PRE-TOURNAMENT RECEPTION & CEREMONY

941-925-7800 mmwallcoveringsblinds.com

Hors d’oeuvres, wine, beer, soft drinks Thursday, Jan. 16 | 5 to 7 p.m. at The Resort at Longboat Key Spike ‘n’ Tees, Islandside

432929-1

Wallcoverings & Blinds, Inc. Since 1989

TOURNAMENT

©2024 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners.

SUNDAY

FOOTBALL!

NEW FORMAT! OPEN TO ALL

Four Players per Team at Comparable Levels (2 women, 2 men) Two doubles pro sets (men vs. men; women vs. women) Two mixed doubles matches; tie breaker if necessary

Registered NFL Bears Bar! Any time the Chicago Bears play, WE PLAY THE GAME OVER OUR SPEAKERS.

Don’t Mislss : Our Specia SUNDAY SLIDERS

$60 ENTRY FEE PER PLAYER

Includes reception, trophies, balls, refreshments Pre-tournament reception: $40/person for non-players

BEER PITCHER SPECIALS BEARS SHIRTS & HATS available for purchase

CALL 941-316-8367 TO REGISTER

Siesta Key Oyster Bar

SPONSORS

5238 Ocean Boulevard Sarasota, FL 34242

941.346.5443

428765-1

Longboat Key Public Tennis Center

Janet and Curt Mattson Owners

4801 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota Across from The Landings

Siesta Key Oyster Bar

Friday, Jan. 17 through Sunday, Jan. 19 Longboat Key Public Tennis Center

436860-1

6B

YourObserver.com

7B

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

First flight T

he skyline of the city was a little higher on Dec. 6 and 7.

The Balloon Glow & Laser Show had hot air balloons and kites hovering above the Sarasota Fairgrounds, giving attendees the chance to marvel and enjoy tethered hot air balloon rides.

It may have been a rare sight in Sarasota, but there was still a community interested in the experience.

Sarasota’s Ken Junkins had crewed hot air balloons with his parents Alan and Betty Junkins in the late 1980s, while his godfather, Chuck Beczk, was a weather reporter for a balloon festival in Albuquerque for many years.

“I loved ballooning, but I haven’t done it in years, and I saw this opportunity and decided to come out and volunteer for it,” he said.

The event, managed by a Georgiabased company, is most often held across the southern part of the country’s east coast.

“Our primary mission is to bring balloon shows to areas where people don’t normally see a lot of balloons,” said Jeremy Kwaterski, its executive director.

Kwaterski said one of the most popular parts of the show is the tethered balloon ride, which costs $35, in contrast to untethered, which can cost $400 to $500.

Despite some initial challenges with high winds, conditions improved and the festival could offer over 1,000 tethered rides.

It also offered a chance for balloonists to showcase their passion.

“I’ve always been fascinated by flight, and something about getting into a little airplane and closing myself in just never felt right,” said Fred Vereb, operator of GottaFly.Fun. — IAN SWABY

Photos by Ian Swaby

Various hot air balloons fill the event space.

Sarasota volunteer Ken Junkins helps stabilize the RE/MAX balloon.

Mike Gee gives Vicky Canales a chance to try flying a kite.

Anne Parker admires balloon-inspired decorations at one of the vendor booths.

Tess Schmitt of Maverick Balloon Adventures fires up the propane.

Holiday WORSHIP GUIDE

Area services and events to celebrate this joyous time of year

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE

DECEMBER 24th 5:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church & School 435981-1

435608-1

941-921-3673 | www.goodshepherdsarasota.com

Christmas

CELEBRATE

Peace WITH

CHRISTMAS EVE Tuesday, December 24 @ 6 pm

436221-1

8010 Fruitville Road Sarasota, FL (941) 378-0885 newlifesarasota.org

Live Nativity & Outdoor Music

Tuesday, Christmas Eve, December 24 5:00 pm & 7:00 pm Lessons, Carols, Communion & Candlelight

Peace Presbyterian Church 12705 St. Rd. 64 East, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34212 www.PEACEpcusa.com 941•753•7778

437251-1

Wednesday, December 18 @ 5 pm

Sunday, December 15, 5–7 pm The Path to Christmas

436331-1

BLUE CHRISTMAS SERVICE OF HEALING

436329-1

435607-1

(The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod) 5659 Honore Ave., Sarasota, FL 34233

8B

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

Holiday WORSHIP GUIDE Christmas

JESUS’ HARMONY FOR SARASOTA’S HEART Christmas Eve services at 5pm and 11pm

at St. Armands Key Lutheran Church

Christmas Eve

Christmas Day

December 24 · 5, 7, & 9pm

Live Streamed Service at 7pm www.saklc.com

Lessons & Carols

Rev. Dr. Kenneth Blyth, Pastor Michael J. Bodnyk, Minister of Music

435605-1

Prelude concert begins 20 minutes before each service

December 25 10am Worship

December 29th 9am & 11am Worship

40 North Adams Drive, Sarasota, FL 941.388.1234 office@saklc.com www.saklc.com

CH R IST M AS EV E

CANDLELIGHT SERV ICE

DECEMBER 24, 5 PM 435686-1

Holy Communion, Festive Brass & Timpani at all services

2185 Wood Street, Sarasota, FL 941.365.0844 concordiasarasota.org

435603-1

Christmas Morning service at 10am

437023-1

We invite you and your family to join us for a special Christmas tradition as we celebrate the reason for this holiday season with classic Christmas carols and meaningful candlelight moments.

DR. JOHN CROSS, SENIOR PASTOR

FIRSTSARASOTA.ORG

ST. MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL CATHOLIC CHURCH 5394 Midnight Pass Road, Siesta Key

Christmas Eve Tuesday, December 24, 2024 Children’s Christmas Pageant 3:30pm

Christmas Eve Mass 4:00pm

Christmas Music Prelude 6:30pm

Christmas Eve Mass 7:00 pm

437060-1

Wednesday, December 25, 2024-8:00am & 10:00am

435598-1

435694-1

Christmas Day

YourObserver.com

9B

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

CHRISTMAS EVE

Worship with Holy Communion, 4 p.m. & 7 p.m. with music from the Voices of Faith Choir

CHRISTMAS DAY

Christmas Eve 3pm, 5pm, 10:30pm

REDEEME R

Christmas Day 10am

of the

Childcare available for ages 4 and under at the 3pm and 5pm services.

Downtown Sarasota | 222 S. Palm Ave. | RedeemerSarasota.org

Faith Lutheran Church ELCA

435604-1

CHURCH

7750 Beneva Rd., Sarasota, FL 34238 | 941.924.4664 435606-1

437026-1

Worship with Holy Communion, 10:00 a.m.

SIESTA KEY CHAPEL PRESBYTERIAN (USA)

Christmas Eve Services

LIVING LORD

5:30 pm Worship in the Chapel

LUTHERAN CHURCH

Family Service with Live Nativity

8:00 pm Worship in the Chapel

11107 Palmbrush Trail, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 (941) 753-9365

Candlelight Service with Communion

Celebration of His Birth

CHRISTMAS SERVICES

941.349.1166 4615 Gleason Ave. Siesta Key

437025-1

435976-1

siestakeychapel.org

435609-1

Whoever you are and wherever you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here!

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST 1031 South Euclid Avenue, Sarasota (941) 953-7044

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES

*Livestreamed via our website uccsarasota.com/YouTube/Facebook

436223-1

4:00 p.m. ~ Sanctuary (special music) 7:00 p.m. ~ Sanctuary (special music)* 11:00 p.m. ~ Sanctuary (communion)

436332-1

Area services and events to celebrate this joyous time of year 435599-1

Both in person and live streamed on Facebook

436222-1

at 4:00 pm & 7:00pm.

393044-1

Tuesday, December 24

10B

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

Brightening spirits A

Reagan Gabbard, 8, enjoys the snow.

Commissioner Kyle Battie, Downtown Improvement District Vice Chair Ronnie Shugar, Chair Chris Voelker and board member Eileen Hampshire with Next-Mark President Joseph Grano.

s they stood in front of the newly illuminated Christmas tree, Debra Ashby and David Collins saw their first year in Sarasota concluding in a positive final chapter, even with the challenges the community had endured earlier in the year.

Light Up the Night, held Dec. 6, was the latest in the series of Fresh Fridays block parties in Downtown Sarasota, but this month, it brought a special focus, featuring the lighting of the Downtown Improvement District’s new, much larger Christmas tree at Selby Five Points Park.

Stepping onto the stage for the lighting were board members of the DID, City Commissioner Kyle Battie and Joseph Grano, president of NextMark.

Chris Voelker, chair of the Downtown Improvement District, said she wanted the event to be the start of a custom of going downtown each year to watch the lighting of the tree, which she calls “the most spectacular tree in town” at about three times the size of the original tree, which was around 20 feet in height.

“We’re very thankful to everybody who came out tonight and that the city helped us to create the magical night that we had tonight,” she said.

The evening also featured live music by The Rockefellers, a giant inflatable snow globe that allowed attendees to climb inside for photos, a snow machine and high-end food and drink vendors.

Joseph Grano, president of NextMark, which collaborates with the DID for the events, said he thinks the SOUTHWEST FLORIDA’S FINEST city should create a sense of place, KITCHEN & BATH SHOWROOM and said the company wanted to offer a holiday event like none before it.

TRUST. KNOWLEDGE. SERVICE. “We’ve been so excited to have a For over 30 years The Plumbing Place top-notch band, along with incredhas worked hard to earn the trust of our ible entertainment opportunities and customers and contractors. And with over food choices as well, but I think most 150 years of combined experience, our importantly, it’s all about gathering friendly and knowledgeable staff delivers FROM THE PLUMBING PLACE friends, gathering family, gathering exceptional customer care.

For over 30 years The Plumbing Place your new neighbors, and being part of the city,” he said. has worked hard to earn the trust of our “I love it,” said attendee Kendal

Autumn Tselios leads the band The Rockefellers.

Photos by Ian Swaby

Lauren and Kim Smith, visitors from Pennsylvania, pose for a selfie in front of the tree.

TRUST. KNOWLEDGE. SERVICE. Kitchen & Bath Fixtures • Sinks & Tubs

Gerard, regarding the new tree. “I just moved here a week ago. I love the togetherness of the community. All the support really makes it a great place to live.”

Beautiful AND Durable Exterior Door Hardware

— IAN SWABY

customers and contractors. And with over • Toilet & Bidets • Kitchen & Bath Lighting

TRUST. KNOWLEDGE. SERVICE.

• Door & Cabinet Hardware • Mirrors & Cabinets

150 years of combined experience, our• Bath Furniture & Accessories It’s a frustrating reality for many Gulf Coast For over 30 years The Plumbing Place has worked hard to earn the trust of our

homeowners – discolored, pitted and tarnished

150 years of combined experience, our

exterior door hardware caused by our harsh

friendly and knowledgeable staff delivers customers and contractors. And with over exceptional customer care.

friendly and knowledgeable staff delivers exceptional customer care.

salt-rich air.

We eventually learn that the tease of “lifetime “Everything about the place is beautiful, we should brass” really means a lifetime of maintenance call it the pluming boutique, so clean, organized, big

of items,There friendly staff…” and selection repair. is a practical solution to this - RANDA Z.

Shop our 6,000 sq.ft. Showroom for the Best & Most Extensive Collection Anywhere.

JOHN SMITHMAN, OWNER

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA’S FINEST KITCHEN & BATH SHOWROOM 5678 FRUITVILLE ROAD | SARASOTA, FL 34232 941.378.5678 | THEPLUMBINGPLACE.COM

common problem – Bronze or Stainless Steel.

TRUST. KNOWLEDGE. SERVICE. Both materials offer excellent salt

TRUST. KNOWLEDGE. SERVICE. For over 30 years The Plumbing Place

tolerance and oxidation/corrosion resistance

has worked hard to earn the trust of our

For over 30 years The Plumbing Place

customers and contractors. And with over

with a minimum of maintenance. A variety of

has worked hard to earn the trust of our

150 years of combined experience, our

Shop our 6,000 sq.ft. Showroom for the

FROM THE PLUMBINGstyles PLACE Straightforward Name. and finishes provide a perfect match to Best & Most Extensive Collection Anywhere.

customers and contractors.

And with over friendly and knowledgeable staff delivers

FROMOWNER THE PLUMBING PLACE JOHN SMITHMAN,

150 years of combined experience, our exceptional customer care.

5678 FRUITVILLE ROAD | SARASOTA, FL 34232 941.378.5678 | THEPLUMBINGPLACE.COM

Convenient Location.

Beautiful AND Durable

friendly and knowledgeable staff delivers

Exterior Door schemes Hardware existing color including rich patinas of

exceptional customer care.

classic bronze, contemporary polished or

When costs increase and disaster strikes, food can be the first to go.

Beautiful AND Durable Outstanding Showroom.

Exterior matte nickel, andDoor black. Hardware It’s a frustrating reality for many Gulf Coast

homeowners – discolored, pitted and tarnished

Kitchen & Bath Fixtures • Sinks & Tubs

• Toilet & Bidets • Kitchen & Bath Lighting

exterior door hardware caused by our harsh salt-rich air.

We eventually learn that the tease of “lifetime

TRUST. KNOWLEDGE. SERVICE.

• Door & Cabinet Hardware • Mirrors & Cabinets brass” really means a lifetime of maintenance

It’s a frustrating reality for many Gulf Coast Beautifully craftedlocated bathroom and kitchen fixtures, Smitty’s Architectural Hardware, homeowners – discolored, pitted and tarnished has worked hard to earn the trust of our fittings and accessories from leading designers.

“Everything about the place is beautiful, we should customers and contractors. And with over inside The Plumbing Place, displays many and kitchen fixtures, fittings and Beautifully crafted bathroom door hardware caused by our harsh and style showcased Masterpieces of functionality 150 call yearsitofthe combined experience, our pluming boutique, soexterior clean, organized, big friendly and knowledgeable staff delivers lines of door hardware in beautiful styles for accessories from leading designers.

Masterpieces of functionality in an astounding showroom.

- RANDA Z. air. selection of items, friendly staff…” salt-rich exceptional customer care. and style showcased in an astounding showroom. your home that are well suited for our and repair. There is a practical solution to this

• Bath Furniture & Accessories

common problem – Bronze or Stainless

For over 30 years The Plumbing Place

Steel.

Both materials offer excellent salt

Help put food back in the bag this holiday season.

tolerance and oxidation/corrosion resistance

with a minimum of maintenance. A variety of styles and finishes provide a perfect match to

existing color schemes including rich patinas of classic bronze, contemporary polished or matte nickel, and black.

Visit our showroom or call to arrange an appointment.

Smitty’s Architectural Hardware, located

demanding environment, and will create the We eventually learn that the Road teaseorof “lifetime 5678 Fruitville •call Sarasota • Florida 34232 Visit our showroom to arrange an appointment. first “Everything impression your front door deserves.

941.378.5678 5678 • Sarasota • Florida 34232 • 941.378.5678 about the place isFruitville beautiful, we should Road brass” really means a lifetime of maintenance inside The Plumbing Place, displays many

Turn empty plates into and repair. There is a practical solution to this ThankFULL Hearts.

Shop our 6,000 sq.ft. Showroom for the common problem – Bronze or Stainless lines of door hardware in beautiful styles for your home that are well suited for our

demanding environment, and will create the first impression your front door deserves.

call it the pluming boutique, so clean, organized, big selection of items, friendly staff…” - RANDA Z.

Shop our 6,000 sq.ft. Showroom for the

Shop our 6,000 sq.ft. Showroom for the

Best & Most Extensive Collection Anywhere.

Best & Most Extensive Collection Anywhere.

JOHN SMITHMAN, OWNER

Shop our 6,000 sq.ft. Showroom for the Best & Most Extensive Collection Anywhere.

Steel.

941.378.5678 | THEPLUMBINGPLACE.COM Best & Most Extensive Collection Anywhere.

JOHN SMITHMAN, OWNER

5678 FRUITVILLE ROAD | SARASOTA, FL 34232

5678 FRUITVILLE ROAD | SARASOTA, FL 34232

941.378.5678 | THEPLUMBINGPLACE.COM

JOHN SMITHMAN, OWNER Give today at JOHN SMITHMAN, OWNER TRUST. KNOWLEDGE. SERVICE. 5678 FRUITVILLE ROAD | SARASOTA, FL 34232 Both materials offer excellent salt allfaithsfoodbank.org Shop our 6,000 sq.ft.ROAD Showroom for the 5678 FRUITVILLE | SARASOTA, FL 34232 941.378.5678 | THEPLUMBINGPLACE.COM BestPlumbing & Most Extensive tolerance and oxidation/corrosion resistance For over 30 years The Place Collection Anywhere.

941.379.6333 941.378.5678 | THEPLUMBINGPLACE.COM SMITHMAN, has worked hard toJOHN earn the trust of OWNER our 5678 FRUITVILLE ROAD | SARASOTA, FL 34232

customers and contractors.

And with over 941.378.5678 | THEPLUMBINGPLACE.COM 150 years of combined experience, our

with a minimum of maintenance. A variety of

Shop our 6,000 sq.ft. Showroom for the

Best & Most Extensive Collection Anywhere.

• TUBS • VANITIES FAUCETS SINKS •• • TUBS • VANITIES • SHOWERS styles and finishes provide a perfect match to FAUCETS SINKS Beautiful AND Durable • • • • SHOWERS MIRRORS STEAM MIRRORS STEAM ROOMS • SAUNAS WHIRLPOOLS Exterior Door Hardware existing color schemes including rich patinas of ROOMS • HARDWARE TOILETS • TOILETS • BIDETS • LIGHTING • ACCESSORIES SAUNAS• BIDETS classic bronze, contemporary polished or DOOR AND CABINET HARDWARE matte nickel, and black.

LIGHTING • ACCESSORIES www.theplumbingplace.com

FROMOWNER THE PLUMBING PLACE JOHN SMITHMAN, 5678 FRUITVILLE ROAD | SARASOTA, FL 34232 941.378.5678 | THEPLUMBINGPLACE.COM

friendly and knowledgeable staff delivers

It’s a frustrating reality for many Gulf Coast

exceptional customer care.

homeowners – discolored, pitted and tarnished exterior door hardware caused by our harsh salt-rich air.

We eventually learn that the tease of “lifetime

brass” really means a lifetime of maintenance

and repair. There is a practical solution to this common problem – Bronze or Stainless

417719-1

Steel.

Both materials offer excellent salt

tolerance and oxidation/corrosion resistance

a minimum of maintenance. A variety of call it the pluming boutique, so clean,with organized, big

436172-1

Smitty’s Architectural Hardware, located www.theplumbingplace.com “Everything about the place is beautiful, we should inside The Plumbing Place, displays many and kitchen fixtures, fittings and Beautifully crafted bathroom

lines of door hardware infrom beautiful styles for accessories leading designers.

Masterpieces of functionality and style showcased in an astounding showroom. styles and finishes provide a perfect match to

existing color schemes including rich patinas of Z. selection of items, friendly staff…” - RANDA classic bronze, contemporary polished or matte nickel, and black.

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

11B

FIND YOUR PATH HERE Associate Degrees

Bachelor’s Degrees

Workforce Personal Enrichment

Professional Development

Bradenton | Venice | Lakewood Ranch | Online

SCF.edu/FindYours | 941-752-5050

426733-1

State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate and baccalaureate degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota. State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota does not discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, religion, age, national origin/ethnicity, color, marital status, disability, genetic information or sexual orientation in any of its educational programs, services and activities, including admission and employment.

Direct inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies to Equal Opportunity Officer, 941-752-5599, 5840 26th St. W., Bradenton, FL 34207.

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

YourObserver.com

A Powerful Partnership in Luxury Real Estate JOINS FORCES WITH

We are thrilled to partner with Forbes Global Properties, aligning our brand with one of the world’s most trusted and prestigious names in business.

This exclusive collaboration provides unparalleled global exposure for the exceptional properties we represent, connecting to Forbes’ audience of 140+ million affluent readers worldwide.

SCAN HERE TO DISCOVER MORE

Luxury redefined.

Excellence elevated.

Nowhere but here.

427627-1

12B

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

NOV. 25-29

ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR

A

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

Bruce and Elsie Appleton, trustees, of Quebec, Canada, sold the Unit 113 condominium at 5400 Ocean Blvd. to Karen Jean Dunne and Donald Dunne, of Hudson, Ohio, for $1,482,000. Built in 1970, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,187 square feet of living area. It sold for $340,000 in 1997.

REAL ESTATE

The Terrace condominium sells for $1.48 million

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

13B

SARASOTA

BAYVIEW John and Lesley Gallagher, of United Kingdom, sold their home at 1617 Siesta Drive to Robert Bartlett, of Sarasota, for $775,000. Built in 1948, it has two bedrooms, oneand-a-half baths, a pool and 1,110 square feet of living area. It sold for $220,000 in 2013.

File photo

The Unit 113 condominium at The Terrace, 5400 Ocean Blvd., was built in 1970 and has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,187 square feet of living area.

POINSETTIA PARK Paula Clemow, trustee, of Blue Spring, Missouri, sold two properties at 1863 Bougainvillea St. to Rachel Katherine McAree, of Sarasota, for $965,000. The first property was built in 1938 and has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,481 square feet of living area. The second property was built in 1958 and has one bath and 288 square feet of living area. They sold for $432,500 in 2016.

ALINARI Seema Gupta, trustee, of Burlington, Massachusetts, sold the Unit 806 condominium at 800 N. Tamiami Trail to JMK 522 LLC for $620,000. Built in 2007, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,310 square feet of living area. It sold for $525,000 in 2021.

Other top sales by area SARASOTA: $1.4 MILLION

THE WOODLANDS AT RIVENDELL Valerie Lynne Bond and Joseph Eastman Bond, of Osprey, sold their home at 1031 Scherer Way to Jason and Julie Morgan, of Osprey, for $845,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,408 square feet of living area. It sold for $527,500 in 2020.

Weber Fred Michael Gerigery sold his home at 940 Caloosa Drive to Max and Haley Vincent, of Sarasota, for $1.4 million. Built in 1957, it has two bedrooms, three baths and 2,700 square feet of living area. It sold for $1,175,000 in 2022.

PALMER RANCH: $956,000

ALMERIA ON THE BAY Edward Akers, of Crown Point, Indiana, sold his Unit 303 condominium at 6470 Hollywood Blvd. to Robert Locker and Cheri Locker, trustees, of Grand Ledge, Michigan, for $510,000. Built in 1978, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 910 square feet of living area. It sold for $345,000 in 2021.

Deer Creek Martin Karl Stiegmann and Shawna Michele Stiegmann, of Glen Allen, Virginia, sold their home at 8338 Cypress Hollow Drive to Hunter Stevens, of Sarasota, for $956,000. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two-and-ahalf baths, a pool and 3,078 square feet of living area. It sold for $687,000 in 2021.

PALMER RANCH

OSPREY: $1,225,000

VILLAS AT DEER CREEK Ingrid Petri, trustee, of Venice, sold the home at 4571 Deer Trail Blvd. to Melanie Wright, of Sarasota, for $510,000. Built in 1993, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,912 square feet of living area. It sold for $265,000 in 2013.

OSPREY

Meridian at the Oaks Preserve B. Walter and Marcia Rosen, of Blue Bell, Pennsylvania, sold their Unit 601 condominium at 3621 N. Point Road to Mark Taylor, of Osprey, for $1,225,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,680 square feet of living area. It sold for $1,175,000 in 2023.

MERIDIAN AT THE OAKS PRESERVE Thomas Cassidy, of Venice, Susan Ford, of Baltimore, and John Cassidy, of Osprey, sold their Unit 304 condominium at 385 N. Point Road to George Mueller Jr. and Judit Mueller, trustees, of Osprey, for $535,000. Built in 2000, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,778 square feet of living area. It sold for $499,000 in 2021.

In with the new NOW TAKING CONTRACTS

DOWNTOWN SARASOTA SOTA Residences & Hotel | 941.462.3900 | From $1.8M | Visit the Main Street Gallery | thesota.com

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

DOWNTOWN ST. PETERSBURG 400 Central | 727.209.7848 | From the $900,000s | Call for an appointment | Residences400central.com

TOP BUILDING PERMITS These are the largest city of Sarasota building permits issued for the week of Nov. 25-29, in order of dollar amounts.

GOLDEN GATE POINT

CITY OF SARASOTA

En Pointe | 941.685.1598 | enpointesarasota.com | From $2,775,000

Permit

Applicant

Amount

878 Freeling Drive

Storm Repairs

Rose Allison, trustee

$286,000

140 Faubel St.

Alterations

Brian Reilly

$164,000

4223 Bay Shore Road

Guest House

R. Curtis Jordan, trustee $150,000

580 Bellora Way

Solar System

Peter Amster, trustee

1378 Harbor Drive

Dock

Timothy Duoos, trustee $52,930

835 Norsota Way

Windows/Doors

David Leland

$52,238

3181 Bellevue St.

Storm Repairs

Steven Jordan

$46,000

2147 S. Jefferson Ave.

Re-roof

Michael Hastings

$39,621

1919 Laurel St.

Enclosure

Ronald Watts

$35,000

3040 Courtland St.

Enclosure

Garwood Fletcher

$30,316

$75,530

Source: Sarasota County, city of Sarasota

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

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

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

MichaelSaunders.com/New-Homes | 844.591.4333 | Sarasota, Florida Prices as of November 2023

427653-1

Address

LONGBOAT KEY

14B

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

YOUR CALENDAR

to the winners of DON’T MISS THETHE Congratulations DON’T MISS the 28th Annual th th 25 SILVER ANNIVERSARY 25 SILVER ANNIVERSARY VERSARY DOWNTOWN SARASOTA THETHE DOWNTOWN WNOF OF DOWNTOWN

Holiday Parade

SARASOTA HOLIDAY PARADE! Y PARADE! SARASOTA HOLIDAY PARADE!

4| ec.Saturday, 4Saturday, | 7pm Dec. Dec. 4 7pm | 7pm Best Walking Unit

Lighted floats, carolers, dancers, Heroes” Theme Foundations Christian Montessori Academy Lighted floats, carolers, dancers, local high marching bands, Stage Door Studios Honorable Mention: Sarasota Ski A Rees local school high school marching bands, area churches, nonprofits, local local area churches, nonprofits, Best Entry Best School businesses, andCommercial last, businesses, andbut last,certainly but certainly SeaSucker not least, Santa and Mrs. Claus! not least, Santa and Mrs. Claus!Cardinal Mooney High School Honorable Mention: Sarasota Military Academy Bring Bring the whole familyfamily to thisto this Best Nonprofit the whole treasured community tradition.

Circuscommunity Arts Conservatory treasured tradition. Judges Choice As Most Unique Entry ArriveArrive early, bring bring your lawn Honorable Mention: early, your lawn The Dark Side Cat Habitat chairschairs and Big get ready for a for a and get ready festivefestive evening. evening.

SPONSORS Start: Start: Main Main St. & St. Washington Blvd. Blvd. & Washington Warren Middleton Insurance End: Gulfstream Ave. Ave. End: Gulfstream S A R A S O TA

DOWNTOWN

DOWNTOWN DOWNTOWN

ASSOCIATION

Good Neighbor… Great Rates A S S O C I A T I O NA S S O C I A T I O N www.warrenmiddleton.com

435847-1

S A R A S O TA

S A R A S O TA

BOOK NOW

s a m t s i r h C DAY Buffet HAPPY HOUR DAILY

SUNDAY CHEESE FONDUE

4-9pm - Reservations Only (Min. 2 ppl) Cheese Fondue & Swiss Wines

MONDAY HAPPY HOUR TUESDAY $5 TACOS Trivia Night 7-9pm

WEDNESDAY SNOW CRAB

$22.99 - 1lb. | $39.99 - 2lbs.

3-7pm Yappy Hour for the Dogs!

$39.99pp

Kids 12 & under $19 19pp pp

STARTERS:

Chicken Dumpling Lobster Bisque & Salad Buffet

WINTER WONDERLAND AT THE ROBERT L. TAYLOR COMMUNITY COMPLEX 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Robert L. Taylor Community Complex, 1845 34th St. Free. Engage in holiday fun including arts and crafts, cookie decorating, a toy giveaway, and a visit from Santa.

Pizza will be provided. Reservations required. Visit EventBrite.com.

Turkey | Honey Glazed Ham | Leg of Lamb Baked Flounder | Beef Burgundy Bacon Mashed Potatoes | Green Beans Carrots | Port Wine Shitake Mushroom Gravy ...And More!

FRIDAY FISH FRY

New Year's Eve

SATURDAY 7 FRESH FISH

"Midnight Swiss Time"

THURSDAY PRIME RIB

$24.99 - 12oz. with Salad & 2 Sides $18.99 All You Can Eat

CHRISTMAS TOWN 5-8 p.m. at Southside Baptist Church, 2035 Magnolia St. Free. The seventh annual Christmas Town at Southside Baptist Church includes a lights maze, snow machines, pictures with Santa Claus and the Grinch, a “Journey to Bethlehem” and holiday treats. Reservations required. Visit EventBrite.com.

SANDY CLAWS BEACH RUN 8:20 a.m. at Siesta Beach Park, 948 Beach Road. Adult 5K, $40; youth (18 and under) 5K, $30; one-mile fun run and walk, $25. This staple of area running events, which brings runners to the sands of Siesta Key Beach, is now in its 48th year. Visit RunSignUp.com.

BUFFET INCLUDES:

All Day at the Tiki & Cafe

PLEIN AIR PAINTING AT THE BAY: JOSEPH MELANCON 10-11 a.m. at The Nest, 1055 Boulevard of the Arts. Free. Learn the skills of plein air painting, or painting in the open air. With the help of artist Joseph Melancon, you will capture the coastal scenery of The Bay. Registration required. Visit TheBaySarasota.org.

SATURDAY, DEC. 14

Dec. 25th • 11am-7pm

Food 3:30 - 5:30pm • Drinks 8am - 5:30pm Live Music Fri. & Sat. - 5:30-9pm

THE LIVING NATIVITY 7:30 p.m. (Gates open at 6:30 p.m.) at The Tabernacle Church, 1414 DeSoto Road. Free. This 45-minute performance of the Nativity scene involves live animals and flying angels. There will be a petting zoo for children, hot chocolate and cookies. Reservations required. Visit TabSarasota.org.

BEST BET

SATURDAY, DEC. 14

HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE OF LIGHTS 7 p.m at Bayfront Park, 5 Bayfront Drive and Marina Jack, 2 Marina Plaza.

Free at Bayfront Park; reservations required for Marina Jack. Elaborately decorated boats parade through Sarasota Bay in this annual event presented

by Suncoast Charities for Children and Marina Jack. Visit SuncoastCharitiesForChildren.org.

FRIDAY, DEC. 13 AND SATURDAY, DEC. 14

SARASOTA UGLY SWEATER BAR CRAWL Check-in from 3-5 p.m. at Rafferty’s, 1888 Main St. Regular tickets $19.99

Celebration

File image

Brown Eyed Girl, captained by Cooper Tholmes, gives a wave to the audience.

($3.71 Fee). Wear an ugly sweater to this bar crawl covering over five bars. You will receive a bag of swag, an official lanyard, drink deals and DJ entertainment, with an after-party and a holiday-themed giveaway.

Visit EventBrite.com.

NATIONAL WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA DAY AT SARASOTA NATIONAL CEMETERY 11:30 a.m. at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72. Free.

Volunteer to lay wreaths on the graves at Sarasota National Cemetery. Volunteer entry is at 11:30 a.m., ceremony at noon and wreath laying at 1 p.m. Attendees must obtain parking passes. Visit WreathsAcrossAmerica.org.

HOLIDAYS AT THE BAY COMMUNITY CELEBRATION 4-7:30 p.m. at Common Ground, 1055 Boulevard of the Arts. Free.

Family photos with Santa, a holiday craft project by Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation teaching artists, dancing and a “Sounds of The Season” story read by Mr. Stevey. Visit TheBaySarasota.org.

Champagne Toast @ 6pm

Market Price

Live Entertainment Limited Menu - Surf & Turf, Prime Rib, Salmon, Scallops

Book Your Private

HOLIDAY PARTY!

Breakfast Daily 8-11am Authentic Swiss Brunch, Classic Breakfast, House Specials

We can accommodate up to 250 people!

MAINLAND

941-966-2121 • WWW.CHEFROLF.US

Our Expertise Is Dental Implants

Holiday NOW

Personalized, gentle, and comprehensive patient care is our highest priority

Call us!

Bone Grafting Dental Implants Teeth in one day IV Anesthesia Wisdom Teeth

Why Choose Us? Board-certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons

SAVINGS EVENT!

Dual Degree Licensed Dentists (DMD) & Physicians (MD) Professional & highly trained staff Patient centered solutions backed by cutting-edge technology

Hillview Tamiami Office

Bee Ridge Office

Todd Reuter DMD, MD Scott Roemer DMD, MD (941) 365-3388

Scott Middleton DMD, MD (941) 926-9100

437580-1

Now Open Daily for Dinner & Early Bird Special Everyday 3:30-6pm

1660 S. Tamiami Trail Osprey FL 34229

THROUGH

Dec. 18

Major Appliance Centers

sarasotaoms.com

LRRXC2606S

Financing Options Available

941.927.4900 | 3756 Bee Ridge Rd. | Sarasota JessupsAppliances.com

429296-1

Five Star Rated

425516-1

d.

Season With Us! Us! Season With Best “Holidays for

437412-1

,

Best In Show Best Performance or Dance CreArte Latino Dynasty Dance Come Start Your Holiday Come Start Your Holiday Cultural Center Honorable Mention: Acrofit Gymnastics

THURSDAY, DEC. 12 TO SUNDAY, DEC. 15

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

15B

HURRY! THESE LIMITED-TIME OFFERS EXPIRE 12/27/24

OVER 50 LOCATIONS NATIONWIDE

SARASOTA (941) 278-5392

BRADENTON (941) 278-5391

DELRAY BEACH (561) 377-3057

2807 University Pkwy In Publix Plaza at University Walk

2001 Manatee Avenue E. Ste 104 (Bradenton Pain and Wellness Center)

4900 Linton Blvd #3 (In between Poppies Restaurant and Kristi Cleaners)

BOYNTON BEACH (561) 377-3058 4739 N Congress Ave (In between Dollar Tree and Fon Shan Chinese)

JUPITER (561) 377-3066 6725 West Indiantown Rd Bay 39 (In Jupiter West Plaza)

Receive $750 discount towards the purchase of a pair of Phonak Audéo Sphere™ Infinio technology. This limited-time offer may not be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion. New orders only. Private pay only (not combinable with insurance or network). 2The Total Care Package as shown is exclusively available with the purchase of Audéo Sphere™ Infinio 90. Other packages are available. Private Pay only. Offer valid until 12/27/24.

1

437175-1

SL-AT241024_093937^_01

OPEN NOW:

16B

YourObserver.com

WEATHER

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

FORECAST THURSDAY, DEC. 12

SUNRISE / SUNSET Sunrise Sunset

High: 65 Low: 50 Chance of rain: 0%

FRIDAY, DEC. 13 High: 76 Low: 58 Chance of rain: 6%

Thursday, Dec. 12

7:10a

5:37p

Friday, Dec. 13

7:11a

5:37p

Saturday, Dec. 14

7:12a

5:37p

Sunday, Dec. 15

7:12a

5:38p

Monday, Dec. 16

7:13a

5:38p

Tuesday, Dec. 17

7:13a

5:38p

Wednesday, Dec. 18

7:14a

5:39p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, DEC. 14 High: 77 Low: 63 Chance of rain: 7%

Dec. 15 Full

Dec. 22 Last

Dec. 30 New

Jan. 6 First

RAINFALL

SUNDAY, DEC. 15 High: 81 Low: 63 Chance of rain: 8% Richard Bottorff captured this photo of a calf on a ranch in Saddlebag Creek, Myakka City.

Monday, Dec. 2

0

Tuesday, Dec. 3

0

Wednesday, Dec. 4

0

Thursday, Dec. 5

0

Friday, Dec. 6

0

Saturday, Dec. 7

0

Sunday, Dec. 8

0

*Rainfall totals from Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport

Submit your photos at YourObserver.com/Contests. All submissions will be entered for the 2024-25. Weather and Nature photo contest. In February 2025, you will vote for your favorite photo, and the submission with the most votes will win a $500 gift card.

YEAR TO DATE: 2024 77.89 in.

2023 24.13 in.

MONTH TO DATE: 2024 0.00 in.

2023 0.62 in.

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

Daily crossword puzzles available at YourObserver.com/crossword

IT’LL MAKE YOUR HEAD SPIN! by Shaun Phillips, edited by Jeff Chen

108 DJ performance without men pre-recorded music

44 Weakens, in gamer lingo

110 Carnival game with a

45 So not cool

mallet

50 Elephant or car part

113 Style of movement to

51 Like fingerpainting

music demonstrated by the 54 Morning spectacle figure in this grid ... and a

56 Nocturnal lemurs that

hint to the circled squares

sound like their prominent

117 Astrologer’s prediction

facial feature

118 “Juno” or “Pulp Fiction”

63 Female sheep

119 Tech tablet

65 “Old MacDonald” refrain

120 Never Have I ___ (party

66 Finishes last

game)

67 Dog collar dangler

121 Showbiz quadfecta

(Abbr.)

122 Antioxidant-rich berry

68 Opera cheer

123 Soccer icon

70 Line at the swimming

124 Cravings

pool?

125 Speed Wagons of old

79 Against

autodom

80 “As ___ on TV”

126 Eye of ___ (witches’

81 Actress Issa

brew ingredient)

83 “You betcha”

DOWN

©2024 Universal Uclick

ACROSS 1 ___ Vegas 4 “Funny!”

8 Outback bird 11 “This won’t hurt ___!”

15 ___ on the Shelf (holiday tradition) 18 Zonked 19 Makeshift knife 20 U-Haul rental 21 Tempo 22 Prefix with “metric” or “graphic” 23 Vitamin abbr.

24 “The Little Red Hen” refusal 25 French friend 26 “Kapow!”

27 Classic Pontiac

28 Loud, sustained noises

55 Journalism inits. since

76 Deadlocks

30 French fashion mono-

1851

77 Actor Diggs

gram

56 Actress Jessica

78 Conclude

31 Butter bit

57 Hip-hop’s Dr. ___

79 Yard sale caveat

32 Queasy

58 Greek “P”

81 ___ the Riveter

33 Pre-owned

59 Bovine hidden in “snooze 82 Actor James of “The

34 One with The Force, he

button”

Fresh Prince of Bel-Air”

was

60 Courteous rural reply

84 Furry “Star Wars” friend

35 Vocational academy

61 Slangy “shady”

87 “The Matrix” hero

38 Male sheep

62 TV’s “Hawaii ___”

88 Brief movie sightings

39 “Famous Potatoes” state 64 First-year law student

89 Oxygen and nitrogen

41 Day celebrating trees

91 ___ Jima

67 “Sure ya did”

42 NFL star ___ Beckham Jr. 69 “The best-laid ___ ...”

92 Professor’s protection

44 Convent resident

71 Reproduce, like salmon

94 Apple ___ (stylus)

46 Boombox button

72 Run-DMC or Beastie

96 Motivational material, in

47 Spirits lifter

Boys

modern lingo

48 Veto

73 “Fiddlesticks!”

97 Actress Moreno

49 Cash dispenser (Abbr.)

74 Long and lean

101 Kid noises?

52 The “E” of STEM

75 “___, Earl Grey, hot” (Cap- 105 Musician Leonard

53 Annoys

tain Picard’s utterance)

106 Betty Crocker product

85 Baby’s boo-boo 86 Munchen : Munich :: ___

1 Apt synonym for “Heav-

: Cologne

ens!”

88 Summertime pond

2 The “A” in A/V

sounds

3 Emphatic rounds of

90 Leave the union

applause

93 Checkout lines? (Abbr.)

4 QVC competitor

95 “I hate that”

5 “Hiya, matey!”

97 Erase

6 Reaches an all-time low

98 “Throw me the ball!”

7 Walled city of Spain

99 Bathroom floor installers

8 Argentinian icon

100 Apt rhyme for “lumber-

9 Sensitive lad

jacks”

10 Price per part

101 World Series org.

11 Advanced H.S. science

102 Better-ventilated

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.

“WAVK, SMOVO SO FVO SVATH, PFNO ZR SLWWLTH IA GMFTHO; SMOVO SO FVO VLHMI, PFNO ZR OFRE IA WLXO SLIM.” IX MARI DOIOV PFVRMFWW

“VH ZFBLRS BFXJLB VR BLFB BLR ETNH OFH HEX AFT VFCR JEEM FB FTHBLGTJ GI BE DSFABGAR, FTM BLRT DSFABGAR IEVR VESR.”

DRBR SEIR

“TRN TZ AH SWUUNPJ XTRJMWSDJWTRP JT JBN ADPWX SDPWRNPP WP RTJ PWRUWRU.”

UDWJIMWPJ YDIRN NYYH

Puzzle Three Clue: U equals G

crossword

Puzzle Two Clue: Z equals F

426191-1

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

Come Shop our Showrooms!

Puzzle One Clue: V equals R

at MANASOTA FLOORING INC

© 2024 NEA, Inc.

sudoku

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

class

103 Settle a score 12 Inflatable “HAPPY BIRTH- 104 Recreational watercraft DAY” decorations

brand

13 “Mine! Mine! Mine!”

107 Country artist Mus-

14 President pro ___

graves 15 Ovo vegetarian deli order 109 SNL segments 16 “Pfft! They can try!”

110 “Indiana Jones” prop 17 Whole ___ Market

111 Wish

29 In need of a pick-me-up

112 Asia’s vanishing ___ Sea

33 Web address

114 “Cool beans!”

36 Makeup touch-up

115 ___ machine (arcade

37 Menopausal treatment,

game)

in brief

116 “Time” traveling in

40 Grand Canyon state

reverse?

43 Representative speci-

©2024 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

12-12-24

Made for where you live. Here!

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

Homes for Sale

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

Sarasota/Siesta Key, East County, & Longboat Key Issue of 12/19: Deadline is 12/12 Issue of 12/26: Deadline is 12/13 Issue of 1/2: Deadline is 12/17 Call 941-955-4888 to place your classifi fie ed ads.

ESTATE SALES & Liquidations Free Consultation. Complete Moving & Estate Sales.

978-390-8803

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 ANSWERING MACHINE - AT&T, three stations, like new. $35 941-879-7105- No txts please COMPLETE SET of Spalding Golf Clubs with Bag and Cart. 17 pieces, like New!! Asking $175.00. Please call: 941-907-7774.

CORELLE "OUTER BANKS" dishes. 30 plates/bowls, 7 cups.

Pic online. $100 (941) 966-6816 FISHING GEAR Four reels, four rods.

Three tier suitcase of lures.

New ! $150. 719-783-9075 9AM-Noon ORTHO SCOOTER/BOOT Ambulatory knee scooter, boot L $50 815-343-7073

WANTED TO BUY Vintage/Old Costume Jewelry, Vintage Pottery & Glass.

978-390-8803

Musical Instruments KAWAI DIGITAL PIANO w/ Bench. Bought New, Used 1 Lesson Season. In Excellent Condition. $1,800 OBO Call 941-993-4428

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

auto

stuff

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

Please call Marc: 941-321-0707

Autos Wanted CASH FOR YOUR CAR We come to you!

Ho Ho Buys cars.

941-270-4400.

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

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

SENIOR BALLBATS Suncoast Melee Worth. Demarini. Combat.

Exc/new $195 (941) 718-8010

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

Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

TODDLER BED w/ mattress & bedding. Like New! $50 913-645-6469

Motorcycles

VICTORY TAILGATE Corn Hole Set U MICH. 2’x4’. Like New. $150 860-324-0026

GARAGE SALE As low as $17.50 per week!

941-955-4888

Antiques/ Collectibles AVID COIN COLLECTOR paying higher prices than any dealers for coins, silverware, and jewelry: 321-236-1075

OLD MOTORCYCLES WANTED *1920-1999* ALL Makes & ModelsAny Condition! $ CASH PAID $ Call 845-389-3239 cyclesndmore10@gmail.com

We have a wide range of homes FOR SALE New Homes starting in the low $200’s Pre-Owned Homes starting in the low $100’s

Visit our Website for home listings & Golf information at www.riversideclubFL.com

Merchandise Wanted GOLD, SILVER BUYING w/ CASH. RETIRED INVESTOR Diamonds, Coins, Jewelry, Watches & Pocket Watches.

Free House Calls.

Discrete/ Confidential. Call David 813-439-2694

**NEW & PRE-OWNED HOMES FOR SALE**

NOW offering “Lease to Purchase Program” on select homes.

Or call us direct at 877-211-5337 To schedule a private tour

jobs

Due to the Christmas holiday, The Observer has early deadlines for the issues of 12/19, 12/26, and 1/2.

Antiques/ Collectibles

Help Wanted EARN EXTRA CA$H. $100 OR MORE / DAY. Retirees and college students. Work at local golf courses. For Hole-inOne contest on Par 3. In Sarasota/ Manatee area. No experience needed - easy work will train Contact Matt: 908-635-1897

Office Space for Rent SPACE AVAILABLE midway between Sarasota/Bradenton near SRQ. Excellent exposure, reasonable rent.

Bayshore Realty Inc. 941-773-1363 / 941-685-5848

Condos/Apts. for Rent SEASONAL RENTALS Mainland, convenient to shopping, beaches, & SRQ. Bayshore Realty Inc. 941-755-3701 / 941-685-5848

Condos/Apts. for Sale 2BR/2BA PERIDIA GOLF & CC THIS 2/2 2ND FLOOR END UNIT WITH VIEWS OF THE POND FROM YOUR SCREENED IN PATIO...INCLUDES FURNITURE PLUS AN AUTO. THIS COULD BE YOUR 2ND HOME OR WEEKEND GETAWAY...

CLUBHOUSE FOR DINING, TIKI BAR BY THE POOL...

(941) 408-3434

FIND IT IN THE RED PAGES 941-955-4888 YourObserver.com/RedPages

Adult Care Services

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

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE! Cleaning

Handyman Services MITCHELL HANDYMAN. Painting, Carpentry, Tile, Pressure Cleaning.

Home Improvements, Repairs.

Small and large! 941-284-8488.

Normal Business Hours Mon-Sat 8AM-5PM Sun 10AM-4PM 2550 Pier Drive Ruskin, FL 33570

Painting EPIC HOME CARE Personal Care-Respite Care Alzheimer’s Care Light Cleaning Med Administration Meal Prep Shopping, Errands & More

DOCK WANTED for Sale or Lease Seeking a dock for a 50' sailboat. Need 6' minimum depth Will consider purchase or lease (216) 409-6958

Call for a FREE Evaluation!

941-536-6372 Epichomecareprovider@gmail Rosa Torres- Owner

SARASOTA CASH HOME BUYERS: We buy off market properties including single family homes, condos and land. Distressed properties are ok. We always pay Cash. Call us first at 941-202-6957.

Auto Transport

STORM ANGELS - Cash or Contract for your property. 48 hrs.

Call Tony 573-216-7000

15% DISCOUNT FOR 4-WEEK RUN

www.braziliancleaningbymk.com

OPEN HOUSE (New Homes) 10AM-2PM 1st Saturday of the month

Real Estate Wanted

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

BRAZILIAN CLEANING Service

by Maria. Residential. Meticulous Cleaning. Excellent References.

Free Estimates. Reliable. Lic./Ins. 941-400-3342.

OPEN HOUSE (Pre-Owned) 10AM - 12PM EVERY TUESDAY

www.SarastotaCashHomeBuyers.com

real estate

EARLY DEADLINE NOTICE

The Premier Golf & Marina Manufactured Home Community 55+ Active Lifestyle

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

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

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

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

Honest & reliable.

Free estimates. 941-744-1020.

35+ years experience.

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

Residential & Commercial.

Fully Insured.

CALL or TEXT Don 941-900-9398

This week’s Crossword answers

WE BUY THE KEYS! Flooded Home? Cash Offers?

We live local, looking to buy distressed and off market homes. Call or Email Kimberly WeBuyTheKeys@gmail.com (941) 344-1033

REAL LOCAL STUFF HERE! YourObserver.com/RedPages

Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals 5 STAR NEW CABIN (Bear’s Den) 3 day min. No long term, no Pets. $250 / night. Pool, handicap accessible, 2 bd, full kitchen, 3 tvs, washer, dryer, very clean & nice. 941-322-2627 ©2022 Universal Uclick

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

M-F Ask about our special rates!

Wagner Realty Since 1939

You’re only cheating yourself.

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.

peekers’ place

INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888

redpages@yourobserver.com •yourobserver.com/redpages

home services

RED PAGES

RED PAGES AD RATES

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “Lord, where we are wrong, make us willing to change; where we are right, make us easy to live with.”

TV host Peter Marshall

Puzzle Two Solution: “My father taught me that the only way you can make good at anything is to practice, and then practice some more.”

Pete Rose Puzzle Three Solution: “One of my biggest contributions to the music business is not singing.”

Guitarist Duane Eddy

This week’s Sudoku answers

www.rentalsonlongboat.com

©2022 NEA, Inc.

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

Doors

Home Watch

DON’T let your

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

PATIO DOORS be a DRAG or your

WINDOWS be a PANE!!

Sliding Glass Door Repairs Sliding Glass Door Deadbolts | Window Repairs

FREE

941.650.9790 941.650.9790 YoderAluminum.com

IN-HOAMTEES ESTIM

YoderAluminum.com

Attorney

Divorce without Lawyers

CALL PINNACLE TODAY! 941-306-1999 Kitchen/Bath Remodeling CALL BEFOREYOU YOU FALL CALL BEFORE FALL

GRAB BARS GRAB BARS

Call us today!

941.628.8579

COMPLETE INSTALLATION PACKAGE

www.ezslider.com

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

Handyman

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

KEENS HANDYMAN SERVICES

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

TEXT OR CALL 574-354-7772

437010

435937

FREE (941) 809-7311 ESTIMATES!

SHOWER & BATH MAKEOVERS

GET YOUR LIFE BACK!

Cleaned - Regrouted - Caulked - Sealed

WE COME TO YOU

436700

Do You Have Neck or Low Back Pain?

Do You Want To Avoid Surgery?

FAST • EASY • SAFE

Find anything in the RED PAGES

FREE CONSULTATION 941.358.2224

941-955-4888

436678

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

Computer

Landscaping & Lawn

Board Certified in the specialty of non-surgical spinal decompression

COMPUTER REPAIR SALES & SERVICE

Lic./ Insured

AMI SUN - FULL COLOR 2x2 175642 09-06-23

436685

Movers 435929

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

RED PAGES

Computer

Rich Briandi | 941-356-5616

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.com

6968 Beneva Road 941-929-9095

Driveways | Yards | Dirt Work | Light Demo

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

DON’T THROW YOUR COMPUTER OUT THE WINDOW – CALL LORITECH! (Next to Beneva Flowers)

Shell Work & Landscape Stone

DR. DAVID CIFRA, DC

New & Refurbished Computers Servicing PC & MAC on Site or In Shop Virus and Spyware Removal- Free Software We Make Windows 10 User-Friendly!

BOOST YOUR BUSINESS

make your moving day a pleasure.

Showcase your products or services.

CALL 941-955-4888

Licensed and insured #IMT708

Painting

Painting

Introductory Sale $150 OFF

$1500 job or more (labor only) Carpentry one time use • one per customer Drywall Find Us @ Call 941.320.5068 Powerwashing for FREE Estimates

435936

941-735-3362

SARASOTA PAINTING, LLC

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

Bob & Carol Guthrie 941.993.6613

Exterior / Interior / Cabinets FULLY INSURED • OWNER OPERATED

www.PalmerRanchHomewatchers.com PalmerRanchHomewatchers@comcast.net

435919

Serving the Palmer Ranch Area Since 2007 Licensed & Insured

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

Licensed & Insured

(Interior/Exterior)

Pegatronics.com

Advertise as low as $85 per week.

For $149 per hour you get:

A truck, 2 men with equipment, experience and a great attitude to

Learn Computer Basics Phones/Tablet Help Apple & Microsoft Problems Solved On-Site and Off Much More! Call Today!

YOUR BUSINESS

Wizard Moving SRQ

Home Watch

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

GROW

Call John 941.377.2940

Free Estimates • Sarasota Resident Since 1974

www.showerandbathsarasota.com

Give Us a Call - We Can Help

5-Star Rated

941-243-0995 • jsancorporation@gmail.com jsancorporation.com Lic#CBC1265920

435938

24/7 SERVICE

- FREE ESTIMATES -

436389

436677

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

SELL YOUR CAR!

435932

Renovation, Construction and Remodeling Specialist

SPECIALIZING IN KITCHEN & BATHROOM REPAIRS & REMODELS.

Health

HoHoBuysCars.com

DRGRABBARS.COM

*DRILLING CHARGES MAY APPLY FOR MARBLE, GRANITE OR PORCELAIN. COUPON REQUIRED.

STEVE PANEBIANCO H R S

Auto Service

Hardware Repair Virus / Malware Cleanup Software & Printer Install New Computer Setups New Purchase Consults Seniors & Beginners

LIFETIME GUARANTEE • LICENSED • BONDED • INSURED COVERAGEAREA: AREA:LAKEWOOD PARRISH TO NORTHPORT COVERAGE RANCH TO S. VENICE

INTERIOR RENOVATIONS & ANYTHING FROM THE GROUND UP

William J. Leininger, JD

941.270.4400

INCLUDES22MOEN MOEN STAINLESS INCLUDES STAINLESS STEEL STEELANTI ANTISLIP SLIP CONCEALED PEEN CONCEALED SCREW SCREW GRAB GRAB BARS (16”BARS & 24”)(16” & 24”)

941.966.0333

KEENS HANDYMAN SERVICES

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

249 235

* $ $235

$

435920

435931

Owner /Insured Operator Insured

Dave and Connie Grundy

435939

Dustin Yoder

Dustin Owner Yoder/ Operator

436686

“Specializing inin6” Gutters” “Specializing 6” Seamless Seamless Gutters”

364556 436701

Aluminum

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

436694

18B

YourObserver.com

19B

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

Pet Services

Remodeling/Home Improvement

Pet Care by Melanie Gates

CUSTOM HOME CONSTRUCTION

Screening

SCREEN MASTER

REMODELING • CONDO RENOVATIONS

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

Dog Sitting (sm/md) Dog Walking (sm/md) Cat sitting & Cat/Kitten Introductions

941-544-1152

Administering medication

DCCoastalLLC@gmail.com www.DCCoastalLLC.com

(941) 966-2960

CBC1265487

Mastercraft Construction

Plumbing

Real Estate

Professional Craftmanship on Carpentry • Cabinets Plank Floors • All Trims and Moldings Pressure Cleaning Services • Painting

Sarasota Cash Home Buyers

Call Today for FREE Estimates in Sarasota County

941~400~6786

We Pay All Closing Costs!

Trees

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

Closer is better.

• We are Local Cash Buyers • We Buy In “As Is Condition” • We Provide The Flexibility You Want • No Need For Repairs • Any Situation, Any Price Range • Water Damaged Houses are OK • Fair Cash Offers • Close When You Want

Windows

Serving Longboat Key Since 2005

941-955-4888

• We Also Buy Land and Condos

Res. | Com. | Lic. | Ins.

YourObserver.com/RedPages

WE ALWAYS PAY CASH

Roofing

Call us FIRST at

941-202-6957

Kenneth Fuhlman Inc.

436703

UP TO

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

RIGHT

ON TARGET

Transportation

BLACK LABEL CAR SERVICE “Luxury for Less”

OBSERVER RED PAGES 436681

941 - 248 - 4734

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

STUFF

found here.

The Red Pages is the perfect store to buy and sell locally! You’ll find a wide selection from antiques to furniture to condos!

RED PAGES Made for where you live. Here!

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

160

25 $

STANDARD WINDOWS

INCLUDING SCREENS, TRACKS, MIRRORS & FANS

941-626-3194

Licensed & Insured CCC - 058059 CBC - 1253936

Advertise your business, starting at only $85 per month.

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

Formerly known as Sunrise Windows

Building & Roofing Contractor

410036

www.SarasotaCashHomeBuyers.com

LOCAL - FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED FOR OVER 30 YEARS!

heroes found here.

You Pay NO Realtor Commissions or Fees!

Sarasota Cash Home Buyers Your Local Home Buyers

CALL US FOR A FREE ESTIMATE 941.625.7673

436690

WE ARE THE MOST EFFICIENT, COST EFFECTIVE, HASSLE FREE WAY TO SELL YOUR HOUSE FOR CA$H TODAY!

Your Local Home Buyers

SOLD

OFF

Neighborhood

Sarasota Cash Home Buyers

• No More Uncertainty

500

436689

Licensed & Insured State Lic CFC056748

OFF

POOL CAGE RE-SCREEN

SPECIAL 00 5

$

senior citizen discount.

www.sunsetwindowcleaningsrq.com

PURIFIED WATER WINDOW CLEANING AVAIL ABLE!!

Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES 941- 284 - 5880

436682

941-923-8140

10 %

NEW POOL CAGE INSTALLATION

435921

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

• INSTALL POOL ENCLOSURES • CARPORTS, FRONT ENTRY• CUSTOM SCREEN DOORS WAYS, & LANAI’S • RE-SCREENING • SCREW REPLACEMENT • PICTURE WINDOW INSTALL / • GARAGE SLIDERS PANORAMIC VIEW • PET & PRIVACY SCREENS

$

436680

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!

Remodel & Home Improvements

• 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

436688

General Plumbing Services Inc.

SERVICES WE OFFER 436679

436687

30+ years Exp. & Excellent References

20B

YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

Local Roots, Legacy Of Experience: One Family, Two Generations

G

IN

W

NE

T LIS

TOP 1%

of Coldwell Banker Realty Agents Globally

3

$ + BILLION

in Career Sales Volume

49+ YEARS Selling Sarasota & Manatee Counties

Ryan Ackerman 941.387.1818

Barbara Ackerman 941.387.1820 SIESTA COVE 5412 SIESTA COVE DR.

$2,895,000

4BR/3BA • 3,198 SQ FT • 110’ Waterfront • Elevated Backyard Pool Oasis • Stunning 180-degree Views • Moments to Siesta Beach Highly Sought-after Location • Abundant Wildlife and Dolphins Private Second-Story Terrace

LA BELLASARA 464 GOLDEN GATE PT., #504

$4,595,000

4BR/4.5BA • 3,290 SQ FT • Private 2-Car Garage • Unobstructed Bay & City Views • Amazing Downtown Sarasota Waterfront Location

OYSTER BAY ESTATES 1429 N. LAKE SHORE DR.

$5,995,000

5BR/5 FULL BA & 2 HALF BA • 4,545 SQ FT • Under Construction Open Plan • Gourmet Kitchen • Wine Room • Resort-style Pool & Spa

PENDING IN THE PAST 16 DAYS! G DIN N PE

GRAND BAY III

G DIN N PE

$2,495,000 WATER CLUB I

3030 GRAND BAY BLVD., #386 3BR/3.5BA • 2,925 SQ FT 8th Floor Wraparound • Gulf, Bay, Marina & Downtown Sarasota Views • Gated, Pet-Friendly Community • World-Class Amenities

G DIN N PE

$4,375,000 GRAND BAY I

1241 GULF OF MEXICO DR #401 3BR/5BA • 3,400 SQ FT Gulf Views • New Wood Floors • 3 Beachfront Terraces • Private Elevator Lobby All En-Suite Baths • Gated Pet-Friendly Community

$1,695,000

3060 GRAND BAY BLVD., #112 3BR/3BA • 2,250 SQ FT Professionally Designed Interiors • Sonos Sound System • Expansive Wraparound Terrace Resort-style Amenities

NEW OPPORTUNITIES COMING SOON - CALL US FOR DETAILS!

Estate-Sized Waterfront Buildable Lot on Large Boat Basin

LIGHTHOUSE POINT - LONGBOAT KEY Private Beach, Boat Dock Direct Open Gulf & Bay Views

HARBOR ACRES - HARBOR DR

Gorgeous Move-In Ready Single Family Home Direct Waterfront Boater’s Dream

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

436436-1

HARBOR ACRES - HILLVIEW