Longboat Observer - Thursday, May 5, 2011

bserver O Happy Mother’s Day!

LONGBOAT

You. Your neighbors. Your neighborhood.

Thursday, MAY 5, 2011

NEIGHBORHOOD SPORTS Residents discuss the cure for Key medical care.

PAGE 3A.

ONLINE FRIDAY: + Gov. Scott’s interview with The Observer Florida Gov. Rick Scott assesses his first legislative session. Read the interview Friday on YourObserver. com.

DIVERSIONS

Sarasota Open stars dominate at the Tennis Gardens.

Former Disney animator Dominic Avant paints people to life. INSIDE.

PAGE 14A.

resort redevelopment by Kurt Schultheis | City Editor

Colony extension granted Longtime Colony Beach & Tennis Resort owner Dr. Murray ‘Murf’ Klauber hopes to work with the unit owners to recreate a new resort that includes all of the resort’s 16 acres.

OUR TOWN

Courtesy photo

Longtime Colony Beach & Tennis Resort owner Dr. Murray “Murf” Klauber spent 15 minutes Monday night admonishing the Colony Beach & Tennis Resort Association for destroying the resort he built. Klauber also insisted the town has no right to grant a continuance of the Aug. 15 tourism abandonment deadline imposed upon the shuttered resort to the Colony Association, instead of to him.

But, by the end of the Monday, May 2 Longboat Key Town Commission regular meeting, all own-

+ Swan song continues on pond

ers of Colony parcels, including Klauber, agreed to join together on the continuance and work together to resurrect the 41-yearold Key landmark.

At Monday’s meeting, the commission had to decide whether to grant a continuance of the town’s tourism abandonment requirement for the Colony.

The prior ruling was that if the resort is abandoned past Aug. 15 (the day the resort shut down last year), the town could strip the resort of approximately 85 of the resort’s 237 units, because they

INSIDE: Klauber announces renovation plan / Page 2A were built on the property before town code allowed only six tourism units be built per acre.

The association requested the commission consider extending the continuance deadline until Dec. 31, 2012.

But Klauber said the association was not the right party with which the town should be work-

COMEBACK KID Town, firefighters to revise firefighter pension contract

by Kurt Schultheis | City Editor

The town of Longboat Key won’t enforce one point of contention firefighters have with their labor contract that expires in September.

Loren Mayo

+ Haiku written as labor of love (bugs)

SEE OUR TOWN / PAGE 8A

SEE COLONY / PAGE 2A

TABLE TALK

Turtles aren’t the only ones in nesting mode: Harbour Links swan keeper David Novak reports that all three of the pond’s swan pairs produced nests this year. Alan and Beverly nested somewhere in the Bayou, although they didn’t produce any fertile eggs. As of Saturday, Vicki was still sitting on her nest, which has six eggs, but Henry is roaming, indicating that the eggs may be infertile. But the swan family is growing: The nest of Stan and Wendy hatched four cygnets, three of which have survived.

The family is now gliding through the water with Stan keeping watch.

Longboat Key resident Florence Levine recently began writing haiku poetry.

Love bugs are the subject of her latest poem: Love bugs here in force Southern hospitality Wish they’d get divorced.

ing and said that a bankruptcy judge liquidated the partnership between him and the unit owners, which turned the tourism units into condominium units.

“I own all of the working parts for anything related to tourism,” Klauber told the Longboat Observer after the meeting. “They really don’t have the rights to ask for what they want.”

Town attorney David Persson, however, disagreed, because the unit owners now control the units.

Rachel S. O’Hara

James Blake, winner of the 2011 Sarasota Open, hits the ball back over the net to his opponent, Marinko Matosevic, April 26, in a main draw match at the Tennis Gardens at the Longboat Key Club. See more photos from the Sarasota Open on page 14A.

The town of Longboat Key and its firefighters are in familiar hot seats — they are heading back to the negotiation table.

Both sides have still not ratified a one-year contract, which expires Sept. 30.

On March 2, the commission ruled in favor on the following contract point of contention between the town and firefighters: The town should no longer count vacation and sick leave as compensation when determining a final pension payout for retired employees.

However, last week town pension attorney James Linn discovered that imposing that contract term would jeopardize the approximately $262,000 the town receives annually from the state to help fund its firefighter pension.

State law mandates that towns are in jeopardy of losing state monies used to help fund pensions if a change like a pension payout modification is made any time after 1999.

An executive session of the commission was held Thursday, April 28, to discuss the issues involved with imposing the contract term on the firefighters.

The commission gave Town Manager Bruce St.

SEE PENSION / PAGE 2A

INDEX Classifieds ........ 24A Cops Corner....... 10A

Crossword.......... 23A Deal Us In......... 22A

Letters..................7A Opinion.................6A

Real Estate........ 15A Weather............. 23A

Vol. 33, No. 40 | Two sections YourObserver.com

2A YourObserver.com COLONY / FROM PAGE 1A When Klauber explained that he should be the one to ask for the continuance and that he had a renovation plan in place for the Colony that he wants to submit to the unit owners, Mayor Jim Brown called a 10-minute recess.

As soon as the meeting reconvened, it was announced that Klauber, the Carolyn Field Trust (which owns 15% of the Colony tennis courts) and Colony unit owner Andy Adams (who owns a 5% interest in the tennis courts) had all agreed to join the Colony Association on the petition for a continuance.

On Tuesday, Colony Association President Jay Yablon said he was pleased with the meeting’s outcome.

“I am very pleased after all the melodrama that Dr. Klauber and the association were able to find common interest on this issue,” Yablon said. “I hope this will be the start of other such occasions.”

Sarasota attorney Morgan Bentley, who represents both the Carolyn Field Trust and Adams, told the commission it’s a good start toward developing a

new Colony.

“Over the next year or so we hope to get along, while realizing we may be at odds,” Bentley said. “The ultimate goal is to bring together a Colony we can all be proud of.”

Klauber told the commission he will not remain in the leadership role at the new resort, but only wants to help re-establish what he created.

“I love the Colony,” Klauber said after the meeting. “I realize I have to work with the unit owners to create a resort that includes the resort amenities I own.”

The commission approved the continuance request by a 6-0 vote (Commissioner Pat Zunz was absent from the meeting), but not before agreeing to a request by Vice Mayor David Brenner that the parties must provide an update to the renovation of the resort by the March 2012 regular meeting. The commission wants to know before December 2012 if an additional continuance might be requested.

Yablon said the association will select a development proposal this year.

“Our goal is to issue building permits for a project that has

LONGBOAT Observer

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

received unit owner approval by the end of the year,” Yablon said.

Brown, a licensed architect who has acted as a consultant for past hotel projects, warned all parties to tread carefully in selecting any proposal that includes restoring portions of what already exists on the site.

“I am warning you to be careful about leading yourself down a path that has you thinking of memories of the past Colony, because people are not going to come here unless you can create a resort that people expect today,” Brown said.

Persson also warned there is a lot of work ahead.

“This is like nothing I have ever seen before, and it makes the Longboat Key Club’s (Islandside) project look like a walk in the park,” Persson said.

“There are issues upon issues to work out amongst many parties. Achieving an end result that’s very positive is a hope.”

Commissioner Phillip Younger agreed.

“This thing’s a mess and I think it will be a mess for awhile,” Younger said. “I wish you all a lot of luck to try and rise this thing out of the dust.”

PENSION / FROM PAGE 1A

Klauber announces renovation plan

Denis direction to either work with the firefighters on a one-year contract that doesn’t include imposing the new pension modification or write a letter to the firefighter union that explains the issue, along with a new one-year contract that excludes that point from the contract.

St. Denis has chosen to hold another negotiation session with the firefighters regarding the issue at 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 10, at Town Hall.

“It’s important for us to sit down, discuss the issue and review the contract again,” St. Denis said.

Longboat Key Fire District Union Vice President Brandon Desch told the Longboat Observer he is looking forward to returning to the negotiation table.

“We will sit down with our attorneys and try and come to an agreement that everyone can agree with,” Desch said.

After the one-year contract is ratified, the town and the firefighters will begin negotiating a new three-year contract.

The town, however, has previously stated it will not spend any money on a new contract.

Longtime Colony Beach & Tennis Resort owner Dr. Murray “Murf” Klauber told the Longboat Key Town Commission Monday, May 2 he has a renovation plan that includes a commitment by hotelier Horst Schulze, the former president and chief operating officer of The Ritz-Carlton. Klauber’s plan, which he is not ready to disclose, also includes a commitment from internationally known interior designer Adrienne Vitadini.

“I have the financing available and commitments from legends in the hospitality world to restore the Colony back to the luxury property we expect on this simple, elegant island,” said Klauber, whose plan also includes adding 100 to 125 additional tourism units on a resort parcel he owns that sits closer to Gulf of Mexico Drive.

Klauber wants to submit the plan to the Colony Beach & Tennis Resort Association in the coming weeks, in the hopes they will consider it along with the nine remaining proposals left for the unit owners to review.

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THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

community care by Robin Hartill | Community Editor

3A

report card

Groups discuss prescription Benchmark’s final report for future medical services targets Morgan

by Kurt Schultheis | City Editor

About 75 people attended a discussion last week entitled ‘The Future of Healthcare on Longboat Key.’

Dose of medicine Dr. Pamela Letts provided the following history of medical services on Longboat Key:  1993 — Longtime

Longboat Key physician Dr. Bill Carter died suddenly of a stroke.

 1993 — The Bay Isles Medical Center opened.  1996 — Letts began

practicing at the Bay Isles Medical Center.

 2003 — Letts opened

the Centre Shops Family Practice and Urgent Care.

 2005 — The Bay Isles Medical Center closed.

Photos by Robin Hartill

Approximately 75 people attended the meeting organized by the Longboat Healthcare Committee.

Dr. Pamela Letts remembers the moment last year when her office manager at the Centre Shops Family Practice and Urgent Care handed her the stats for April.

“Between the recession and the oil spill, we were looking at grossly reduced projections,” Letts told approximately 75 people in attendance at a community discussion entitled, “The Future of Healthcare on Longboat Key,” Wednesday, April 27, at Christ Church of Longboat Key, Presbyterian.

She realized that practicing medicine was becoming difficult on Longboat Key because of seasonal fluctuations. A typical winter day brings as many as 30 patients to her clinic; on a summer day, she might see as few as three. Concerned about the long-term future of medicine on Longboat Key, she approached Longboat Key, Lido Key, St. Armands Key Chamber of Commerce President Tom Aposporos and Vice Mayor David Brenner, who had met with Sarasota Memorial Hospital (SMH) officials in December 2009, as a result of ongoing talks with Letts about

the future of medicine on the island.

“The bottom-line conclusion of that discussion was that a deficit was a given of a practice on the Key,” Brenner said. “From there, the question became: Would the community be willing to subsidize it?”

SMH officials had suggested that they look into non-profit models, such as the Boca Grande Health Clinic, which is subsidized by a nonprofit foundation to maintain medical services year-round on the island village.

So, last summer, after visiting the clinic with Brenner and Aposporos, Letts established the Longboat Healthcare Committee to explore the issue.

Also at the meeting, Joeseph Curl, who, with other Bay Isles residents, formed the Bay Isles Health Care Committee approximately three months ago out of similar concerns about the future of Key medicine, spoke about an alternative model in which residents would partner with SMH to create a satellite clinic on the island.

“Longboat Key sends $3.6 million per year in tax dollars to

Joseph Curl, chairman of the Bay Isles Health Care Committee, spoke at the meeting about possibly partnering with Sarasota Memorial Hospital.

Sarasota Memorial Hospital,” Curl said. “For that, we get the opportunity, if we have to, to use that very fine hospital. Our committee thought we ought to have more than that.”

Curl said that his group also met with SMH officials, who agreed to appoint a representative to look into the idea.

Members of both groups agreed that their ultimate objective is quality, accessible medical care on the island and sought

feedback from residents.

Residents asked about the availability of services at the Boca Grande clinic, which schedules appointments five days a week but has a doctor on call 24/7 for house calls. One attendee suggested that a medical facility should be available around-theclock. Letts said that offering extended hours could be problematic, because it would lead to the same number of patients visiting the clinic in a wider range of hours, which would increase costs. Residents also discussed whether a future medical facility should offer specialists or lab work onsite.

Commissioner Lynn Larson, citing her background as director of the Florida Department of Insurance, said legislators could “love a bill to death” by adding expensive provisions and requirements.

“Start with something simple,” she suggested.

REFERENDA RULE by Kurt Schultheis | City Editor

Town’s density requirement in jeopardy A Key charter mandate that requires a referendum of the voters to increase the island’s density could be wiped out by the Legislature.

A bill being reviewed by the Legislature during the final days of its legislative session could erase a density requirement that’s been in effect on Longboat Key since 1985.

Last week, Town Manager Bruce St. Denis was made aware that a House of Representatives bill being reviewed this week includes an amendment that would prohibit a referenda process regarding density.

The house bill amendment states that: “An initiative or referendum process in regard to any development order or in regard to any local comprehensive plan amendment or map amendment is prohibited.”

The town of Longboat Key has a town charter provision, which was adopted in 1985, stating that density above the 1984 Comprehensive Plan cannot be increased without a vote of the electorate. The house bill amendment would prohibit a referenda process regarding density.

Longboat Key Mayor Jim Brown sent an email to elected officials Friday, April 29, urging the Legislature not to approve the bill.

“Since the process to raise density was lawfully placed within the Longboat Key Charter 36 years ago (and has been acted upon by the voters many

times), this change would either, A.) Prohibit the town from holding a referendum to raise the density limitations; or B.) Void the charter provision that has been in place and worked for the town for 36 years,” Brown wrote in his email. “Either alternative is not attractive. It is by virtue of local control that the town of Longboat Key was able to create the environment that reflects the wishes of its citizens and property owners. Please do not remove a tool that has worked for Longboat Key for almost four decades.”

Brown urged that the amendment language be stricken from the bill.

“I respectfully request that you do not allow decisions to be made in Tallahassee that will change the character of our community after the decision has been made locally,” Brown wrote.

Florida House of Representatives District 69 Rep. Ray Pilon, R-Sarasota, responded to Brown’s request Friday, informing him that if it’s too late to get the language stricken, there may be a way to keep Longboat Key’s current density referenda intact.

“If it goes through, we may be able to file a glitch bill to carve out situations like (those that exist on) Longboat Key,” Pilon wrote.

The Senate will review the bill this week.

Stanley

The final report of the Firefighters Pension Board centers on a $209,000 payment to the board’s consultant.

Benchmark Financial Services released its final report of the Longboat Key Firefighters Pension Board Monday, May 1.

The report, which cost the town $50,000, reveals that much of the focus of Benchmark President Edward Siedle’s forensic investigation focused on investment consultant Morgan Stanley.

The main discovery of Siedle’s report, which was outlined in a preliminary report last month, refers to a $209,000 payment made to Morgan Stanley that Siedle doesn’t believe was properly disclosed and investigated in 2004, even though the pension board’s attorney Bob Sugarman brought the matter up at that time.

Siedle made several recommendations regarding Morgan Stanley and suggested the board needs to determine whether Morgan Stanley is in compliance with its transaction agreements, amend its investment policy and appoint a compliance officer to regularly monitor the plan.

“The board should consider whether the quality of custodial services provided by Morgan Stanley is satisfactory,” the report states.

The report, which says Morgan Stanley has not provided Siedle with all the information he requested, states that in the last 10 years, the underperformance of the plan has been 1.25%.

However, Firefighters Pension Board member Shannon Gault points out that a $15,000 actuary study performed by The Segal Group reveals that 67.6% of the plan’s approximately $13 million in unfunded liability is a result of benefit enhancements, salary increases and low turnover rates.

The Segal Group study says only 24% of the $13 million can be attributed to Morgan Stanley and its investment suggestions.

Although Gault and fellow board member Gerald Feder believe the forensic investigation was a waste of money, Gault believes it points out there is no large amount of money the pension board can recover.

“If we were to go after Morgan Stanley for its underperformance of 1.25%, the company would come back to us with an arbitration offer to pay us 1.25% of the 24% in unfunded liabilities that can be attributed to investment losses,” Gault said. “That amounts to only $40,000.”

Gault said she was worried the report would create “a witchhunt” for lost money that would costs thousands of dollars in legal fees and taxpayer dollars to recover.

“But there just isn’t anything there,” Gault said. “You don’t go after the giant unless you have the ammo. We don’t have the ammo.”

The board will review the report and Siedle’s entire list of recommendations at a special meeting at 9 a.m. Friday, May 13.

NEWSBRIEFS

4A YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT Observer

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

+ Additional pipe inspections to come Longboat Key Public Works Director Juan Florensa told the Longboat Key Town Commission at its April 28 regular workshop his staff would inspect five other portions of an aging wastewater pipe that last month created a construction zone along Gulf of Mexico Drive near Bay Isles Road.

Florensa told the commission there are five other areas where the pipe sits under Gulf of Mexico Drive.

“We want to look at the condition of

Meetings agendas

&

 Planning and Zoning Board Special Comprehensive Plan Meeting — 9 a.m. Thursday, May 5.  Planning and Zoning Board Regular Meeting — 9 a.m.

Tuesday, May 17.

All meetings take place at Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road.

the pipe in those areas and make necessary repairs if needed this summer to avoid issues that occurred near Bay Isles Road,” Florensa said.

will reduce its peafowl population to a dozen birds and will most likely not need any more financial help from the town to do so.

+ Where the sidewalk ends on Longboat Key

+ Klauber pays past assessments

Longboat Key Public Works Director Juan Florensa told the Longboat Key Town Commission at its April 28 regular workshop that a sidewalk proposed along Gulf of Mexico Drive from Broadway to Longboat Pass Bridge would cost $60,000 to construct and $20,000 to design and permit.

Commissioner Phil Younger submitted a drawing for the proposed sidewalk in March.

The commission can decide whether to add the project into its 2011-12 fiscal-year budget when official budget discussions begin in June.

Longtime Colony Beach & Tennis Resort owner Dr. Murray “Murf” Klauber told the Longboat Key Town Commission Monday, May 2 that he paid approximately $60,000 in past assessments for his office and living quarters, as well as the Vagabond beach house unit he owns on the beach, to avoid a foreclosure hearing scheduled for May 12.

Colony Association President Jay Yablon confirmed Klauber has paid the assessments.

+ Longbeach peafowl flock will be reduced Longbeach Village President Michael Drake and other Village residents told the Longboat Key Town Commission it

+ Commission discusses federal funding Despite a recommendation by its beach engineer that the Longboat Key Town Commission stay away from beach project federal funding, the majority of the commissioners still think it’s something to consider.

YourObserver.com

TOP FIVE

The most read stories online last week were: 1. Rebuilding roadblock? (April 27) 2. A Q&A with Jose Manuel Carreno (April 23) 3. PHOTO GALLERY: Longboat Key Club Easter egg hunt (April 24) 4. Cops Corner: Classic Cops of the Day (April 25) 5. Longboat Key Cops Corner (April 27)

Boca Raton-based Coastal Planning & Engineering (CPE), submitted a report last week recommending the town does not work toward attaining federal funds for future beach renourishment projects.

The Town Commission realizes it could take years to receive any sort of federal funding and that it may never receive the funds.

The commission, however, agreed to forward the report onto Congressman Vern Buchanan, R-Longboat Key, for his review.

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LONGBOAT Observer

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THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

5A

CLOSE CRAWL by Robin Hartill | Community Editor

environmental event by Robin Hartill | Community Editor

The loggerhead turtle nests were found May 1 by Longboat Key Turtle Watch and Mote patrolers.

Volunteers found plastic chairs, a toilet and old antique bottles at last year’s Sarasota Bay Watch Sister Keys Cleanup. But the real treasure in all that trash was the fact that participants removed approximately 2,000 pounds of trash from Sister Keys.

This year’s cleanup will be no different, with volunteers gathering to remove trash so that future generations can treasure the town-preserved mangrove islands. The cleanup is scheduled for 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, May 7. Volunteers will meet next to the town boat ramp at Linley Street and Lois Avenue in the Longbeach Village to be transported to Sister Keys by boat.

The islands are typically not open to the public, so the cleanup offers a unique opportunity to visit the preserve and see the

Two turtle nests found Trash cleanup will be on first day of season treasure for Sister Keys

Dora Walters

Turtle Watch President Tim Thurman helps mark one of the first nests of the season. rotta said.

But, according to Rutger, the timing is right on schedule. And, as of Tuesday, at least 10 nests had been documented in Sarasota County.

“What we’re seeing this year is pretty much normal and business as usual,” Rutger said.

This year’s warm weather could be a factor in the season’s start date. Researchers believe that warm water temperatures are a cue for turtles to begin nesting. But, regardless of the progression of this year’s nesting activity, volunteers will be on the beach rain or shine every morning in search of nests to stake out and document.

Contact: Call Sarasota Bay Watch at 9535333 or visit sarasotabaywatch.org.

ONLINE: See last year’s turtlenesting numbers www.YourObserver.com

S

Y KE

Where: Meet next to the town boat ramp at Linley Street and Lois Avenue in the Longbeach Village to be transported to Sister Keys by boat.

The Village

E

W

H FIS

Sarasota Bay Watch Sister Keys Cleanup When: 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, May 7

N

JE W

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Mar Vista and Moore’s restaurants Town boat ramp

OF LF GU

On Sunday, May 1 — the first day of turtle-nesting season — turtle watchers discovered not one, but two loggerhead nests on Longboat Key. Volunteers from Longboat Key Turtle Watch, which patrols the Manatee County portion of the island, discovered one nest in the 6600 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive. Turtle Watch President Tim Thurman, who led the team that discovered the nest, said that the nest was shallow and the tracks were narrow, which indicated that a young turtle had laid the nest.

Mote’s Sea Turtle Patrol, which walks the Sarasota County side of Longboat Key, found the other nest on the southern side of the island. (Mote officials declined to give the location of the nest, however, according to Hayley Rutger, public relations specialist, researchers believe it had been there for a day or two.) However, it wasn’t the first Sarasota County nest of the season. The first nest was discovered April 23, on Manasota Key. This season’s Longboat Key nests were found 13 days earlier than the first nest of last season. Last year, volunteers spotted the first Longboat Key nest of the year May 14, just south of the former 7-Eleven.

Veteran Turtle Watch volunteer Freda Perrotta said that it is the first year in recent memory in which nests were found on the first day of season, although seasons in which nests were laid prior to LBK2010 H May 1 have occurred.

“It’s surprising how early it was,” Per-

impact of a $1.2 million mitigation project completed in 2008. After participants are done collecting trash, they’ll be treated to lunch at Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub. According to Sarasota Bay Watch founder Rusty Chinnis, the event will likely draw around 80 volunteers.

“It’s a great opportunity to get a morning out on the bay and be able to see the wonderful restoration project out on Sister Keys,” Chinnis said. “Plus, you get a wonderful meal at Mar Vista out by the buttonwood trees. It’s really a win-win.”

The event is held in cooperation with the town of Longboat Key and the Chiles Restaurant Group. Volunteers should wear long-sleeve shirts, pants, eye protection, gloves, sunblock and appropriate shoes.

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Observer opinion | our view LONGBOAT

Fed beach funding a gamble

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

Friedrich Hayek “Road to Serfdom,” 1944

Publisher/Executive Editor / Lisa Walsh, lwalsh@yourobserver.com Associate Publisher-Multimedia / Emily Walsh Parry, ewalsh@yourobserver.com Editor-Editorial Pages / Rod Thomson, rthomson@yourobserver.com Managing Editor / Jessica Luck, jluck@ yourobserver.com Assistant Managing Editor/Design / Nancy Schwartz, nschwartz@yourobserver.com Senior Editor / Dora Walters, dwalters@ yourobserver.com City Editor / Kurt Schultheis, kschultheis@ yourobserver.com Community Editor / Robin Hartill, rhartill@ yourobserver.com Black Tie Editor / Stephanie Hannum, shannum@yourobserver.com Social Editor / Molly Schechter, mschechter@yourobserver.com Arts & Entertainment Editor / Heidi Kurpiela, hkurpiela@yourobserver.com Staff Photographer / Rachel O’Hara, rohara@yourobserver.com Director of Advertising / Jill Raleigh, jraleigh@yourobserver.com Advertising Executives / Tracy Bender, tbender@yourobserver.com; Suzanne Munroe, smunroe@yourobserver.com; Kathleen O’Hara, kohara@yourobserver.com; Laura Ritter, lritter@yourobserver.com; Lori Ruth, lruth@yourobserver.com; Kenji Trujillo, ktrujillo@yourobserver.com; Maria Witty, mwitty@yourobserver.com Account Manager / Victoria Baga, vbaga@ yourobserver.com Classified Advertising Supervisor / Pam Cooper, pcooper@yourobserver.com Classified Advertising Sales Executive / Maureen Hird, mhird@yourobserver.com Advertising-Production Operations Manager / Kathy Payne, kpayne@ yourobserver.com Advertising-Production Coordinator / Brooke Schultheis, bschultheis@ yourobserver.com Advertising Graphic Designers / Monica DiMattei, mdimattei@yourobserver.com; Shawna Polana, spolana@yourobserver.com; Marjorie Holloway, mholloway@yourobserver. com; Luis Trujillo, ltrujillo@yourobserver.com Multimedia Production Manager / Caleb Stanton, cstanton@yourobserver.com Circulation/Admin. Assistant / Patti Colby, pcolby@yourobserver.com Chief Financial Officer / Laura Keisacker, lkeisacker@yourobserver.com Accounting Manager / Lori Downey, ldowney@yourobserver.com Accounting Assistant / Kathy Klein, kklein@ yourobserver.com Founders: Ralph, Claire and Janet Hunter, 1978-1995

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Living in paradise with beaches comes with a cost called renourishment. As Longboaters know, it’s a steep cost, but a necessary oxygen for the Key’s survival.

Money is tight in these times. So it was reasonable for the Longboat Town Commission to hire a consultant to determine the odds of getting federal funding for another round of beach renourishments along the Key. The consultant reported back and, in a relatively surprising move, recommended against pursuing the funding for reasons we’ll lay out below — and to which we’ll add.

But commissioners decided to make a small wager on the chance that our congressional delegation might be able to work some D.C. magic and get federal funding.

It is a long shot and not worth the time and resources the commission is asking its staff to expend.

Besides, Longboat shouldn’t take federal money.

In the end, it’s entirely possible, even likely, that pursuing this course would cost the town millions of dollars for nothing, plus lose several years in delays.

Beau Suthard, a director and marine geophysicist at Coastal Planning and Engineering Inc., in St. Petersburg, spelled out in excruciating detail why his firm recommended not pursuing federal money, which probably meant turning away work for his firm. That suggests the strength of the case against pursuing elusive and dwindling federal funds.

Here are the main reasons why the town needs to let go of the hope of getting federal financial help: • The cost for the town to gain eligibility from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is estimated to be between $2 million and $6 million and takes from two to eight years.

These costs could be reimbursed up to 50% if the project is eventually approved, which, as we will see, is a remote possibility.

• And even if the Corps approves Longboat for eligibility, the money for the construction is completely dependent on Congress approving the cost-sharing funds. That process is usually done through earmarks, which we know have become politically unpalatable.

There is even a ban on them right now. Some beach communities are 10 years into their process and have Corps approval but cannot get the federal funding for their dwindling

File photos

strips of sand. Congressional approval for funding alone is a long shot, but getting to that point is another long shot.

• Using a complicated set of data to determine what the town could expect from the feds in cost sharing, CPE estimates the Key as a whole would be eligible for the feds to share 23% of the costs. Some areas would be eligible for 0% and some perhaps eligible for the maximum of 65%.

Here is the kicker, though: The federal and state help are not combined. If the town eventually were deemed to be eligible by the Corps, the state immediately would reduce its share of a project. CPE figures that the state, which has helped with Longboat renourishment projects with 22.5% of the cost, would reduce that to 15.1%. And that reduction is the case even if the town never receives the money from Congress. More risk.

• A second kicker is that the Corps by rule chooses the closest, and therefore cheapest, available sand source. In this case, that would be the gray sand that sits right off Longboat Key. To get the white sand that is near Anna Maria Island would cost many millions more, and the town would have to pay for 100% of that — further reducing the actual percentage shared by the feds.

• The estimated time frame for federal construction funding is eight to 20 years from the date of the request for studies.

There is no reason for optimism that it would be on the short end of that. Considering the changing political dynamics, it is always possible that the pessimistic end may not be pessimistic enough.

Of course, this entire analysis depends on Congress not changing the rules on federal funding for these projects, which almost as-

suredly needs to happen given the enormity of the spending irresponsibility in recent years. Rest assured, any rule changes will not be more generous to beach communities.

It would not be shocking to see Congress try to get the feds entirely out of the program. There is really no good philosophic justification for requiring store clerks in Bismarck, N.D., and steel workers in Dayton, Ohio, to help pay for renourishing Florida beaches.

And, finally, given the longer delays associated with seeking federal funds, costs of the projects theoretically could rise to the point of wiping out the extra federal help. And, of course, if the federal help did not come through, which seems most likely, then increased construction costs would just be added on to the money that had been fruitlessly spent to try to obtain the federal funds.

That all would add up to a huge financial loss for Longboat.

If the town decided to gamble on getting federal money — and the risk-reward ratio does not support that — Suthard recommends several steps to improve the odds some. And some are steps the town is not likely to take.

For instance, one step that would improve chances for Corps approval would be to increase the public beaches, access and parking. That is not a resoundingly popular idea among residents, and it would do little to affect the funding climate in Congress.

Plus, it would cost more money.

There is minimal cost in resources for the town to meet with the congressional representatives. But even that is probably wasted. Considering everything, the town would do better to invest its money in Vegas.

At least the rules stay the same there.

THE VILLAGE

Running afowl of its own rules The whole peacock dust-up should just be a fun moment worthy of a hundred groaning puns.

Unfortunately, it is not.

First, for many of the residents of Longbeach Village, the birds are a nuiscance, pests.

Pretty pests, to be sure, but pests that damage property and wake people in the early morning hours, not to mention lure visitors onto private property and even into Longboaters’ backyards to get that special picture.

ROD would want to put THOMSON upWho with all that?

“We need to address the peacock issue,” Commissioner Phil Younger said during a workshop last week that included the peafowl, as they are more accurately known. “It’s been dragging on for years.”

Indeed. And the story of that raises the bigger reason that it is not just a laughing matter — although a little giggling is hard to suppress. It is yet another example of how government, even our little town of Longboat Key, often tries to do everything for people. In this case, pretty pest control.

In 1982, the town commissioners passed an ordinance setting a limit of 12 peacocks.

Yes, town leaders, in a fit of micromanagement, actually decided to set the appropri-

ate number of peacocks to allow on Longboat.

Well, over the years, the peacocks were not informed of their population limit and thrived. Michael Drake, who has been battling the fowl for years, said at peak times there have been about 140 of them. And that is a lot of peacock pooh.

Last year, the town authorized a small expenditure for the Longbeach Village Association to reduce that number. Drake said 86 birds were removed by a professional and that there are maybe 40 or 50 left. But they breed quickly, and their natural predators are few.

Some commissioners, tired and annoyed with the topic, wanted to put a time limit

on the town’s peacock involvement and just walk away after six months or so. Others wanted to know what the residents in the area wanted.

But the town cannot just walk away. It has a law. There are more than 12 peacocks. If it is going to have the ordinance, it needs to enforce it.

And that creates a dilemma. It is morally questionable and can get the town in legal trouble to choose to enforce some law and not others consciously when it is in its power to change the laws.

So the discussion at the workshop ended up at what we’ll call the 12-male solution: Try to get the number down to the 12 prettiest birds — that is, all males. That way, there will be no reproduction issues to deal with.

And in a few years, there should be no issue at all.

“I’m really tired of talking about peacocks,” said the town’s newest commissioner, Jack Duncan, urging the 12-male solution.

The best long-term option, though, is to get rid of the ordinance and take a small lesson from this pain in the derrière — limit government to the things that only it can do.

This sort of issue is nothing that a homeowners association cannot and should not handle.

Rod Thomson is editor of the editorial pages for The Observer Group and can be reached at rthomson@yourobserver.com.

LONGBOAT Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

TO THE

EDITOR + LBK trolley schedules forced visitors into cars Dear Editor: I am an annual visitor who has taken the Longboat trolley from time to time but am very disappointed in the signage. In spite of the apparent wish to make the bus user-friendly and the new brochure, which I finally found, the posted timetables at the bus stops are out-of-date and wrong.

At the Longboat Key Hilton Beachfront Resort, where a large family and mine were ready to ditch the car and take the trolley to St. Armands (on Earth Day to boot), we found two timetables (one from 2009; across the street there is one from 2008), as well as another stating that there are buses every half-hour, listing the times as, for example: 6:19 p.m. and 6:49 p.m. Needless to say, we had all missed the bus, because the new brochure states there is only one inbound bus per hour on the “14s”; so we missed the 6:14 p.m. bus and there wasn’t another till 7:14 p.m. We got in the car and actually saw the other family get out of their car later on the Circle. Shame!

I’m tempted to take my lovely brochure and tape it to the pole by the Hilton to set things straight.

Sharon Nicolle Longboat Key visitor from Nova Scotia

neighborhood watch by Robin Hartill | Community Editor

‘Officer D.’ cited for police work The Lido Shores Homeowners Association honored 20-year Sarasota Police Officer Donzia ‘Officer D.’ Franklin for her community service.

Cream of the crop

Bob Thill and his wife, Susan, set off their alarm not once but twice the night they moved into their Lido Shores home six years ago.

Sarasota Police Officer 1st Class Donzia Franklin, better known as “Officer D.,” responded to the scene. She gave them a lecture and a warning, but before she left, she told the newcomers that she had one more warning for them: traffic.

Thill, who is now president of the Lido Shores Homeowners Association, said that it’s an example of how Franklin has looked out for neighbors “between the bridges” on Lido, St. Armands and Bird keys for the past 17 years, often while patrolling on bicycle.

“She’s the kind of police officer who gives respect, and so you respect her,” Thill said.

Many of the 110 people who gathered Tuesday, April 26, on St. Armands Circle, to honor Franklin as she accepted the Lido Shores 2011 Community Service Award had a personal memory of Franklin, who became a sworn police officer in 1991.

Residents say that Franklin embodies community police work: She has pulled over teenagers and followed them home to insist that they tell their parents they were speeding (she

Lido, St. Armands and Bird key residents have many fond memories of Officer Donzia Franklin. But she has also made many memories, and here is one of her favorites: Franklin once spotted a young couple on the beach in a restricted area that was taped off for birds and turtle nests. Their beach blanket contained an apple pie, whipped cream and a four-pack of Kahlua. Franklin approached the couple, and the woman tried quickly to cover her chest, which was covered with whipped cream, with her arms, which sent the cream flying everywhere.

“The young collegeage fellow (said), ‘We just finished dinner and now we were going to have dessert,’” Franklin told the Longboat Observer. “I asked them to leave the roped-off area before engaging in ‘dessert.’”

Dora Walters

Officer Donzia Franklin received accolades from the Lido Shores Association April 26.

knew that a lecture from Mom and Dad would have a greater impact than a ticket). She has driven residents home after they have had too much to drink.

She notifies neighborhood associations immediately when a burglary occurs so that they can send email notifications to members. And even though she takes the role seriously, she still sometimes has a little fun on the job.

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President Andrew Vac said that he and a group of other association members were having dinner at Crab & Fin restaurant after a Circle jazz concert. At some point during the meal, Franklin spotted them and came out with their food on a tray and pretended like she was their server.

“She exemplifies what I think police people should be,” Vac said.

The Lido Shores award isn’t the first honor Franklin has received for her police work. She was named Sarasota Police Officer of the Year in 2001, and she has earned eight commendations, two Meritorious Service medals and two Lifesaving medals.

Accepting her award from the Lido Shores Homeowners Association, Franklin credited her supervisors with allowing her to do her job.

“I appreciate that my supervisors allow me the latitude to apply common sense to my police work and to continue patrolling here on my island,” she said.

Later, at a reception at Café L’Europe, she turned to a group of Lido Shores residents. There she issued a warning, delivered with her signature sense of humor.

“I’ll get you for this,” she said.

“Mark my words. Paybacks are hell.”

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THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

OUR TOWN

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Following tradition, Kip O’Neill once again hosted a birthday party for Village girls with April birthdays.

Attending April 20 this year were Ginny Johnson, Gail Condrick, Dawn diLorenzo, Lissy LaFlamme, Lillian Sands, D’Arcy Arpke, Vivie Porterfield, Chantal Diem and Liz Yerkes. Guests were Village residents, but no men were at this birthday party except for O’Neill’s grandsons, Luke and Andrew Moriarty, who assisted as needed.

The party room at L’Ambiance Building Two has been exceptionally busy lately.

On Monday, April 25, about 30 residents gathered to hear a special dress rehearsal. It was for the second annual Commemoration of Yiddish Culture, which took place May 1, at Temple Emmanuel, in Newton, Mass.

The performers were L’Ambiance resident Susanne Klingenstein and her accompanist and best friend, Eugenie Gerstein.

Their program was titled “Kiev, Krakow, Vilna: Yiddish Folksongs, 1860 to 1960.”

Two days later, six couples threw a surprise birthday party for Danny Paradies, who will turn 90 in May. One of his surprises was the visit of his son, Rick Paradies, from Atlanta. Hosts for the event were J.B. and Dee Pinski, Bob and Terry Blumberg, Sherman and Joyce Cooper, Irwin and Sylvia Pastor, Merrill and Sheila Wynne and Merrill and Sheila Zinder.

LONGBOAT Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

9A

Our Markets Re-Energized

If you read this column last week you’ll recall that Shawn Tully, senior editor at Fortune Magazine/CNNMoney.com, is unambiguous in his bullishness about buying real estate in today’s undervalued market. “Forget stocks. Don’t bet on gold,” he advises his readers. “After four years of plunging home prices, the most attractive asset class in America is housing.”

That column had no sooner been put to bed than proof came in rapid-fire succession that an amazing number of buyers in our own market share Tully’s views. The April 21st Sarasota Herald-Tribune hit the newsstands with the headline: Sarasota-Bradenton Home Sales Highest In 6 Years.

Strong demand from investors and second-home buyers, the accompanying article said, had catapulted home sales in Sarasota and Manatee Counties to their highest levels since 2005; while simultaneously reducing inventories of available properties to their lowest levels in six years. Moreover, buyers who were once faced with a plethora of good choices are suddenly astonished to find a growing lack of them.

The same positive trends have also taken root in Charlotte County; and would be all the more impressive across all three counties were they not being compared to this time last year—when the looming deadline for the first time home buyer tax credit brought buyers off the fence in droves.

Meanwhile, in Sarasota-Manatee, March’s median price rose 12% from February, to $154,600; but was down 6% from the previous March. In Charlotte County it fell by 8.3%—to $89,400—from February.

By that Friday there was bullish news about another segment of our local market. That day, the headline read Area Condos Selling Like It’s 2005.

March condominium sales in Sarasota-Manatee posted a sudden and dramatic 32% gain in unit sales over February; and a 12% gain over March 2010. In Charlotte County, there was a 32% increase over February and a 29% improvement over March 2010.

The next day, sellers of properties priced above $1 million got the headline they’ve been hoping for. Longboat Key Mansion Fetches Cool $12.5 Million, it read. In other words, when the price is right and the seller motivated, there are buyers ready, willing and able to purchase every property in our market area, with the most expensive among them no longer an exception. At press time, there are 80 pending sales in Sarasota County, 19 in Manatee County and 6 in Charlotte County involving properties priced above $1 million.

The number of homes that were bound to contract in March is perhaps the most encouraging news of all, as their projected closings more or less guarantee that the positive momentum will continue for at least the next few months. March pendings in Sarasota County were up nearly 30% over February; and 23.4% over March 2010. In Manatee County they were up 25.6% over February; and 34.2% over last March. In Charlotte County, they were up 15.4% over February; and 24.7% over March 2010.

market is close successfully. And therein lies the rub.

A real estate transaction is not unlike a machine, with its many moving parts dependent on each other to keep it running smoothly. Without proper attention a breakdown is possible at any given time. Similarly, holding a real estate transaction together requires on-going diligence from the moment the contract is signed until the moment it closes. Therefore, thorough, active and experienced representation is the only way to assure a successful outcome.

The shadow inventory of foreclosure properties is another cause for concern. With absolutely no precedent to draw from, however, not even the savviest real estate experts are willing to predict what will occur if a significant amount of these properties suddenly hit the market at once.

One hopes that lenders will at least be judicious toward their own bottom lines by not allowing this to happen. A more studied and measured release is in every property owner’s best interest.

What is known, however, is that cash-rich investors have developed such a comfort level with today’s prices that they pounce on every half-decent foreclosure the moment it reaches the market. With the competition for the best properties growing in intensity, they should continue flying off the shelf.

All these pendings have to do to maintain the pace of our re-energized

Next week: How to keep your transaction on track to a successful closing.

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5285 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 102 $635,000 #A3942694 Tammy Lynn Garner

Longboat Key 941-951-6660 941-374-4161

4545 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 211 $559,500 #A3920336 Susan Smith

Longboat Key 941-388-4447 941-302-3440

4621 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 15C $516,000 #A3932422 Richard Perlman

Longboat Key 941-383-7591 941-228-8580

2016 Harbourside Dr # 336 $445,000 #A3938678 Sylvia Zimmerman

Longboat Key 941-383-7591 941-350-5022

3540 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 101 $435,000 #A3941336 Steve Magner

Longboat Key 941-383-7591 941-376-8559

3500 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 201D Longboat Key $429,000 #A3932389 941-383-7591 Craig Abbott 941-302-0686

5393 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 214 $427,500 #A3895478 Michael Nink

Longboat Key 941-383-5502 941-914-2805

746 Magellan Dr $399,000 #A3928563 Gloria Totti-Cervoni

Sarasota 941-349-3444 941-544-7746

9527 Forest Hills Cir $365,000 #A3939160 Kristine Niehaus

Sarasota 941-349-3444 941-376-4950

800 Ben Franklin Dr # 603 $349,000 #A3941481 Douglas Parks

Sarasota 941-388-4447 941-400-9087

600 Sutton Pl # 102 $300,000 #A3928481 Michael Moulton

Longboat Key 941-383-7591 941-928-3559

8931 Veranda Way # 411 $258,000 #A3933002 Kim & Michael Ogilvie

Sarasota 941-951-6660 941-376-1717

3155 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 250 $198,000 #A3931985 Marilyn Brown

Longboat Key 941-388-4447 941-388-4447

2600 Harbourside Dr # N-07 $119,500 #A3937219 Ryan Heers

Longboat Key 941-383-7591 941-726-1703

#A3938985

3453 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 223 $223,188 #A3932475 Eileen Burke

Longboat Key 941-388-4447 941-266-8949

6800 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 191 $199,000 #A3924838 Bobbi Banan

Longboat Key 941-388-4447 941-356-2659

Veranda Beach Club verandabeachclub.com 800.411.5511

White Sands of Longboat whitesandsoflongboat.com 800.230.2428

Colony 941.383.3759 • Mid Longboat 383.5502 • South Longboat 383.7591 • St. Armands 388.4447 • Main Street 951.6660 • Palmer Ranch 966.8000 • Siesta Key 349.3444

51440

Vacation Ownership and Rentals LOngbOAt Key

10A YourObserver.com 2 column x 7 inches

LONGBOAT

1 column x 9.5 inches

Corner

CLASSIC COPS

Road runoff

FINDING THE RIGHT FINANCIAL ADVISOR

April 20

April 22,FINDING 1988 THE RIGHT FINANCIAL9:17 a.m. — 5500 block of GMD. Acci-

8:27 p.m. — 4400 block of Exeter Drive.

Assault. A woman reported that one of her 6:11 p.m. — 5600 block of Gulf of Mexneighbors, whoRIGHT questioned whether IS AS IMPORTANT FINDING THE BOND . she ico Drive (GMD).

Traffic Violation.AS A man lived in the condominium, grabbed her was pulled over after police noticed he arm and yelled at her because the neighAtalter Edward Jones, you’ll always have the ability to find tried to his expired tag with a magic bor was upset with the woman’s children marker.

He wasinvestments. issued a court summons quality But the service and the respect for turning lights you’ll on and get off at the for multiple violations. from my office go far beyond the numbers.

So take a look swimming pool. The neighbor told police she only lightly touched at the figures below, then call me to learn more. the woman’s arm.

Lights are on, but nobody’s home She was asked to stay away from the wom9:591.p.m.

—Government 1600 block of GMD. Suspi- anBonds U.S. Guaranteed 0.00% to 0.00%* and her children.

Guaranteed applies the payment of principal and interest. cious Circumstance.

A light only was to reported on inside a vacant resort unit. The sliding April 22 2. Insured Federal Income Bonds 0.00% to 0.00%* door to the unit was unlocked, and Tax-Free the Weeding outAlternative Minimum Interest may be subject to state and local taxes it and unit was Tax. secured.

Insured as to timely payment of principal and interest. Insurance 8:41 a.m.

— 3600 block of Fair Oaks does not eliminate market risk.

Place.

Property Damage. A cable employee April 21 reported that a landscaper’s weed eater 3.

Investment-Grade Corporate Bonds 0.00% to 0.00%* Impact fee struck his cable company van and caused * Yield a.m. effective subject availability price change.

Yield and value may fluc-van. A 10:18 —00/00/00, 500 block ofto Bay Islesand $100 of damage tomarket the side of the tuateProperty if sold priorDamage. to maturity,Aand the amount from the sale of these securities may be Parkway. woman toldyou receive property damage report was completed. than or equal to the amount originally invested. Any bonds called prior to maturity policemore shethan, wasless exiting Avenue of the Flow- The landscaper incident was unresult in reinvestment risk for the bond owner. Bond prices may fall in asaid risingthe interest rate enviers and felt aContact loud your impact to her Jones vehicle. ronment. local Edward Financialintentional.

Advisor for more information about maturity She discovered a dent when she gotBond home. dates and applicable call provisions. investments are subject to interest rate risk such that interest rise, the bonds the can decrease and the investor can lose principal value.

Policewhen believe anrates errant golfprice ballof from nearby golf course hit the car and caused Honking mad Call or of stop by today.

2:31 p.m. — 6300 block of GMD. Suspithe $200 worth damage. cious Circumstance. A woman told police that a man driving an appliance van folClose call lowed her to her office after she honked at 11:14 a.m. — 5900 block of GMD. Trafhim for attempting a slow turn on Anna fic Violation. A woman reported that a car Maria Island. The man yelled obscenialmost hit her while she was riding her ties at her and told her he knew where bicycle in the bicycle lane. The driver told worked. The appliance company was police she had plenty of time to turn be- she www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC fore the bicyclist entered the intersection. called and promised to perform an invesBoth were warned to be more careful in tigation of the incident.

Magic marker

Writing’s on the wall 11:45 a.m. — 4000 block of GMD. Vandalism. Police noticed graffiti in the men’s restroom at Bayfront Park Recreation Center.

2 column x 2 inches

Flood zone The service you’ll get from

April 25,my 1987 office makes these

11:47 p.m. — 500 block of St. Judes

Noon. 3800 block of GMD. Large 1. U.S. snake in yard.

SnakeGovernment gone on arrival. Officer glad.

Guaranteed bonds

flow-prevention device, which caused water to flood a yard. The water was shut off until the repair could be made.

Exit strategy bonds look even better. Drive. Public Service. A car ran over a back-

0.00% to 0.00%*

April 24 April 25, 2003 Guaranteed applies only to the

Prop shop payment of principal and interest Volunteer training 2. Insured Income12:14 p.m. — 5600 block of GMD. Lost 7:32 p.m. 2700 block ofFederal Gulf Property. A woman reported that her biMexico Drive. Suspicious Person.

A Tax-Free Bonds cycle was missing, but she later found it volunteer firefighter from Georgia 0.00% to 0.00%* propped up against the wall of a store. was blaring his truck’s siren and Interest may be subject to state using its publicand address system local taxes and Alternative Police to taunt pedestrians.

Minimum Tax. told Insured as to Scratching the surface timely payment ofan principal and the subject that impersonating 3:27 p.m. — 4700 block of GMD. Propinterest.

Insurance officer is a felony and to limit thedoes not erty Damage. A hotel employee showed poeliminate market risk. use of the equipment to volunteer lice where someone dented and scratched Investment-Grade firefighting 3. in Georgia. the side of his pickup truck while it was Corporate Bonds parked in the hotel parking lot. The incident caused $200 worth of damage.

0.00% to 0.00%*

April 23* Yield effective 00/00/00, subject to avail-April 26

Keep movingability and price change. Yield and market To grandmother’s house we go

Totally floored 7:46 p.m. — 5700 block of GMD. Code Enforcement. A man was told he couldn’t install a new wood floor on a Sunday because he was violating the noise ordinance with his table saw.

9:13 a.m. price — 500 block of Sanctuary of bonds can decrease and the investor can loseCircumstance. principal value. It was Drive. Suspicious reported that a woman came to a condoCall or instop by today. minium complex twice one night, while driving a separate taxi in each instance, to

Call today and I’ll help you find a bond that’s right for your needs. www.edwardjones.com

risk such that when interest rates rise, the

Visit our website to read more Cops Corner reports www.YourObserver.com

Happy Mother’s Day

IS AS IMPORTANT AS FINDING THE RIGHT BOND. Financial Advisor

dent. A man told police that a black sport utility vehicle forced him off the road and 7:44 p.m. 6300 block of Gulf of into the grass. He was not injured, and his Mexico Drive. pushed ISTrespasser AS IMPORTANT AS bicycle was not damaged. off seawall by property owner. Two FINDING THE RIGHT BOND. elderly ladies involved.

value may fluctuate if sold prior to maturity, 7:57 a.m. — 5600 block of GMD. Susand the amount you receive from the sale of1:46 p.m. — 200 block of North Shore picious Person.

A man walking his bicycle Narcotics Violation. A woman rethese securities may be more than, less Road. than with flat tires ordown Gulf of Mexico Drive equal to the amount originally invested. ported that there was a young man sleepwas issued a written warning fortocamping Any bonds called prior maturity resulting in on her back porch, and she had no idea reinvestmentKey risk for the other bond owner. overnight on Longboat after of- Bond who he was. The man, who was under the prices fall seen in a rising rate envificers confirmed hemay was on interest the Key influence of drugs, told police he thought ronment. Contact your local Edward Jones overnight. he was at his grandma’s house in Orlando.

Financial Advisor for more information about maturity dates and applicable call provisions.

He was arrested for possession of narcotBond investments are subject to interestics rateand trespassing.

Eager to please

FINDING THE RIGHT FINANCIAL ADVISOR Richard D Crawford, CFP®

ADVISOR

When push comes to shove

Touchy subject

the future.

pick someone up even though her cab service was never called.

www.edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

from the crew at

Member SIPC

.

54091

443 John Ringling Blvd Suite 1220 2nd Floor Sarasota, FL 34236 941-388-2847

Don’t Struggle to keep your

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To download graphic files go to www.edwardjones.com/graphics/us/sales/ads

Independence

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401 MANATEE AVENUE • HOLMES BEACH 56698

Cops

LONGBOAT Observer

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

REPUTATION BUILT ON TRUST

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LONGBOAT Observer

YourObserver.com

COMMUNITYCALENDAR

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

Harry’s Wine Tasting — takes place from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 4, at Harry’s deli, 525 St. Judes Drive. The event benefits the Longboat Key Turtle Watch. Cost is $10, $5 of which benefits the organization. Call 383-0777.

Sarasota Bay Watch Sister Keys Cleanup — takes place from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, May 7.

Volunteers will meet at Linley Street and Lois Avenue in the Longbeach Village, to be transported to Sister Keys by boat. Participants will be treated to lunch at Mar Vista after the cleanup. For information or registration, call 953-5333 or visit sarasotabaywatch.org.

Whitney Beach Antique & Art Fair — takes place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 7, and Sunday, May 8, at Whitney Beach Plaza, 6828 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

Attendees are invited to take the trolley. Call Steff’s Stuff at 3831901.  Classic Corvette Car Show — takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday, May 7, on St.

11A

Armands Circle. The event is sponsored by the Skyway Corvette Show.

Call 388-1554.

Annual Crowning of the Blessed Mother Statue — takes place after the 10:30 a.m. Mass at approximately 11:20 a.m. Saturday, May 8, at St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church, 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive. The ceremony honors the Women’s Guild’s patroness, St. Mary, Star of the Sea. Call 3831255.

Beyond Horizon Conference — takes place Wednesday, May 11 through Friday, May 13, at Mote Marine Laboratory, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway. The conference will highlight habitats and needed protections for the Gulf in the aftermath of the disaster. Cost is $50. Registration is required. For information, visit mote.org/beyondhorizon.

Up to 60 Months Special Financing Available**for

Vinyl Impact Window Replacements

As a PGT Platinum Dealer, Mullet’s Aluminum is pleased to introduce PGT’s new PremierVue vinyl impact window that combines style and high performance to meet the needs of today’s discerning homeowner.

PremierVue has among the highest industry ratings for energy, structural, air and water resistance in a vinyl impact product line.

LOOKING AHEAD

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Longboat Key Challenge

For a FREE in-home estimate please contact us at (941) 371-3502.

What: Rowers, scullers, kayakers and operators of all human-powered paddle craft are invited to this event. The course will be seven miles with an alternate three-mile course available. Cost is $35 per participant. Call 383-2466.

When: Check-in begins at 7:30 a.m., and the race begins at 9:30 a.m.

Sunday, May 15 Where: Start at the Longboat Key town dock in the Longbeach Village

Lic #SCC050667/CCC057430/CGC1507267 On purchases of $1000.00 or more made between 1-21-2011 to 4-15-2011 with your Home Design credit card. **Subject to credit approval. Contact Mullet’s Aluminum for details.

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905 Ponder Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34232

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Café Don Giovanni Casual Italian Restaurant Delicious Dinners Nightly 4:30-Close

Osso Buco • Veal Chop • Chicken • Lamb • Fresh Seafood Sea Bass • Dover Soul • Pasta • Pizza 5610 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key

50149

Call for reservations 383-0013

LEARN TO PLAY BRIDGE • Beginner Lessons 1st FOUR lessons FREE! Play in a game your first day!

Modern bridge the easy way in just a few weeks!

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Begins Saturday, Thurs., Sept.

In-Between Bridge Club - Town & Country Plaza NW corner Fruitville & Beneva, Unit 612 Inside Courtyard Sarasota, FL

941-355-6940 Michelle Golden

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Longboat Key Key Show Showroom Longboat Room

Centre Shops, 5930 Gulf of Mexico Drive

383-7600

Bradenton Room Bradenton Show Showroom 752-7437 73

Venice - 373-1948

56703

3230 3130 63rd Ave. East

www.universalwindowsolutions.com

Max, Jake & Mommy Pettingell 56189

WE WILL CREDIT YOU

Happy “Big” Birthday Daddy!

12A YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT Observer

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

lovely luau by Dora Walters | Senior Editor

LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN by Rachel S. O’Hara | Staff Photographer

Spanish Main residents celebrate island-style One of the most popular social events at Spanish Main Yacht Club is the annual island-themed luau. This year was no exception, and the highlight of the April 26 feast was a roasted pig. It was displayed on the buffet table and surrounded by salads and sides. Carvers were event Chairwomen Dee Tornillo and Donna Heffner, assisted by Jim Entwistle.

Many guests got into the party mode by wearing colorful island attire.

The winning team of the Longboat Public Tennis Center 2011 Spring League championship included Jim Long, John Mrachek, Joe Salvino, Wally Womble, Tom Geyman, Wolfgang Wostl and Jim Blatt in the back row with Steve Stills and Bob Dreyfus in front.

Tennis Center champions emerge for spring league Dee Tornillo, Jim Entwistle and Donna Heffner

The annual Longboat Public Tennis Center’s 2011 Spring League championship took place Wednesday, April 27, at the tennis center. There were four teams, each led by one of the tennis pros at the tennis center.

John Mrachek’s team, the black team,

came in first, which is the first time his team has won in four years. Dave Sparks’ navy team came in second, followed by Claudiu Retean’s white team in third and Kay Thayer’s red team in fourth. Following the doubles and singles matches, the players enjoyed a cookout at the tennis center.

Winning doubles partners were Jim Bakle and Jack Paterson.

John Beeman goes for the ball.

Shelly Mueller and JoAnne Entwistle

Ron Hagstrom, Greg Fiore and Bernie Clifford

Photos by Dora Walters

Tom and Sue Reese with Elio Martina

A Taste of Europe Comes to Sarasota

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Guitarist Pino Marelli plays this Sat, Sun & Mon evening and for lunch & dinner on Mother’s Day.

Now Serving Lunch Mon - Fri & Sun, May 8

All-U-Can-Eat Stone Crabs

By Land: 800 Broadway St. • By Sea: Marker 39 on the Waterway North End of Longboat Key • 383-1748

Photos by Rachel S. O’Hara

KEY PLUMBING 366-4555

24 HOUR SERVICE • Water Heaters • GarbaGe Disposals • instant Hots • Filters • all Major branDs pluMbinG Fixtures • KitcHen & batH reMoDelinG • Drain cleaninG

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LONGBOAT Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

13A

obituaries and Gerald. He had a strong interest in the social, economic and political forces that shaped history. He read widely and wrote a chronicle that set the events of his own life within the context of the times in which he lived. Mr. Koblentz is remembered for his strength of character, intelligence, moral integrity and devotion.

Mr. Koblentz was preceded in death by his son, Paul.

Mr. Koblentz is survived by his wife, Evelyn; sons Gerald and Joel; daughter, Suzanne Goodman; two grandsons; and two great-grandsons.

A funeral service was held Tuesday, May 3, in Briarcliff Manor, N.Y. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger, mazon.org.

Mary Lee Lyons

Mary Lee Lyons, 82, of Longboat Key, died April 27.

Born Jan. 13, 1929, in Huntington, W.Va., she graduated in 1947 from Virginia Intermont School for Girls and in 1951 from Florida Southern College, in Lakeland, where she was a member and president of Alpha Delta Pi sorority. She married her husband, Clayton Lyons, in 1952, and moved to Lakeland. She was a homemaker and served as president of the Women’s Club and was active with the Camp Fire Girls, Polk Museum of Art and Florida Southern Alumni Association.

As a resident of Longboat Key, Mrs. Lyons served as team leader volunteer at the Historic Asolo Theater at the Ringling Museum. She enjoyed fishing, boating and walking. She was an avid needlepointer and loved stone crabs.

Mrs. Lyons was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Clayton. She is

All are welcome. Please join us in worship!

Wednesday 10:00 a.m.

The Rev. David L. Danner, D. Min., Rector

Love is the doctrine of this church…

Come join us as you travel your journey of faith.

595 Bay Isles Road

Publix - CVS

Communion & Anointing

Website: www.AllAngelsLBK.org

10:00 a.m. Worship Service The Community Church on Longboat Key

Gulf of Mexico Drive

383-8833

www.christchurchoflbk.org

The Rev. Kenneth Gill Senior Minister

Shifting Sands Tuesdays at 11:30 am, Thursdays at 3 pm

6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, Florida 34228 Telephone: 383-6491 web: www.islandchapel.com

StRoser Armands KeyChurch Lutheran Church Community

Roser Community Church

On St Armands Circle 40 N. Adams Drive • 941-388-1234

Gary Gary A. Batey, Pastor Pastor

Gary A. Batey, Pastor

A non-denominational, traditional traditional church A non-denominational, church

A non-denominational, traditional church

Sunday 9Sunday, AM and AM —Traditional Worship 1011 am – Traditional Worship 9 am –Sunday Adult Sunday 10 AM —Adult SchoolSchool & Book Study 10 am – Children and Youth Church School 9 AM —Children and Youth Church School

Sunday 9 AM and 11 AM —Traditional Worship Music and Brunch the Garden 10 am 10 AM —Adult Sunday School & Bookin Study 9 AM — Children and Youth Church School Special Sermon, Missionary to Suriname

Mother’s Day

Celebrating 100 years of Service in 2013

www.roserchurch.com

St. Mary, Star of the Sea,

CATHOLIC CHURCH

56765

512 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria

56176

941-778-0414

•

•

The Reverend Mark A. Bernthal

Temple Beth Israel

Jo in

Pastor Kevin Jacobson

Contemporary Service 9am

Traditional Service 11am

A Center of Jewish Life and Learning in the Sarasota Area Join Share Shabbat and more: Friday Evening, 8:00 pm

SUMMER MASS SCHEDULE Saturday: 5:00 pm Sunday: 8:30 am & 10:30 am

U s!

Roser Community Church

Msgr. Gerard Finegan, Pastor Gary A. Batey, Pastor

A non-denominational, traditional church

Roser Community Church 567 Bay Isles Road • Longboat Key, FL Gary A. Batey, Pastor

A non-denominational, traditional church

56725

Fourth Friday of the Month, 5:30 pm Saturday Morning, 10:00 am Please visit our Judaica Shop 941-778-0414 512 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria • 41..org 941-778-0414 512 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria Confession before all weekend Masses 941.383.3428 www.tbi-lbk.org www.roserchurch.com www.roserchurch.com Temple Beth Israel • 567 Bay Isles Road • Longboat Key, FL • 941.383.3428 56203

4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key, FL 34228 383-1255

Sunday Services 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

383-8161

56695

Music Director: Dan Hoffman

563 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key

Mediterranean Plaza

INVITES YOU

Reverend Dr. Bruce Porter SUNDAY SERVICE • 10:00 A.M. SERMoN: “Just Because”

The Episcopal Church on Longboat Key

Bay Isles Pkwy.

of Longboat Key • Presbyterian USA

Barbara Stevens Patterson, 80, of Sarasota and formerly of Longboat Key, died April 27. She was the wife of the late Longboat Key Mayor and retired U.S. Army Major Gen. James “Jim” Patterson.

Born Sept. 5, 1930, in Boston, she graduated from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, where she was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority.

Her husband’s Patterson military career spanned 28 years, during which the Pattersons lived in 23 different locations.

In 1976, while living in the Washington, D.C., area, the Pattersons drove to Florida, looking for a place where they could bring their sailboat, and discovered Longboat Key. They later purchased a home in Country Club Shores, which was the first true home they had together.

Mrs. Patterson was involved with volunteer and charity work with the Ameri-

All Angels by the Sea

WORSHIP DIRECTORY

Chris ChurCh

Barbara Stevens Patterson

can Cancer Society, the American Red Cross and Project Literacy. She enjoyed teaching preschool and kindergarten and tutoring children with special needs. She was an avid tennis player at the Longboat Key Club and Resort and Bird Key Yacht Club and enjoyed traveling, cooking, sailing, her involvement with the Kappa Kappa Gamma Alumnae Association and spending time with her grandchildren.

According to family members, Mrs. Patterson loved dancing in the kitchen, midnight swims, writing poetry, walking the family dog late at night for exercise and riding her bike. She is remembered by family members as someone who led by example and put others before herself.

“She never spoke unkindly about anyone and was always the optimist,” her daughter, Leslie Scott, said. “She was a loyal, devoted, loving patient wife to my father … She did whatever she had to do to take care of all of us. It was her top priority, and we all benefited from it. She left this world a better place having been in it.”

Mrs. Patterson was preceded in death by her husband, Jim. She is survived by daughters Carol Patterson, of Fort Worth, Texas, Linda Patterson Italiano, of Tampa, and Leslie Scott, of Rolling Hills, Calif.; brother, Kent Stevens, of Purceville, Va.; and six grandchildren.

A memorial service will take place at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 7, at Toale Brothers Funeral Home, Colonial Chapel, 40 N. Orange Ave., in Sarasota. Burial will be alongside her husband at Arlington National Cemetery, in Arlington, Va., at a later date.

Memorial donations can be made in Mrs. Patterson’s honor to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, Attn: Tribute Gifts, P.O. Box 780, New York, N.Y., 10008.

55309

Charles Koblentz, 93, of Longboat Key, died April 30.

Born in Chicago, he married his college sweetheart, Evelyn Dunn, in 1939, and soon moved with her to Washington, D.C., where his career advanced quickly while he conducted personnel management studies for various federal government agencies.

During World War II, he served in the Office of Statistical Control at the Pentagon with the rank of chief warrant officer in the U.S. Army Air Force. Post-war, he returned to the federal government, where he planned and conducted a reorganization of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

His government career was cut short, however, when he was investigated in the late 1940s by the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) on grounds of guilt by association. At the ensuing hearing, he was exonerated of all charges.

In 1950, Mr. Koblentz joined a management-consulting firm but was dismissed when the firm learned he had been investigated by HUAC. Throughout much of the 1950s and 1960s, Mr. Koblentz worked at jobs dictated not by choice but by the constraints imposed by blacklisting.

However, in 1966 he joined American Trading and Production Co. (ATAPCO), where he rose to executive vice president for the Industrial Group and served on the board of directors. After retiring from ATAPCO in 1993 at age 75, he moved to Longboat Key, where he continued his long walks that began as a boy in Chicago. He also maintained homes in Baltimore and, later, in White Plains, N.Y. Mr. Koblentz enjoyed traveling with his wife, Evelyn, and later with his sons, Joel

survived by her sons, Thomas and Richard, both of Lakeland; daughter, Jane McConnell, of Pittsburgh; and two grandchildren.

A funeral service took place Monday, May 2, in Lakeland. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Clayton and Mary Lee Lyons Athletic Conference Room, Florida Southern College, 111 Lake Hollingsworth Drive, Lakeland, Fla., 33801 or the Historic Asolo Theater at the Ringling Museum, 5401 Bayshore Drive, Sarasota, Fla., 34243.

56572

Charles Koblentz

Neighborhood B U S I N E S S | C L A S S I F I E D S | G A M E S | K E Y L I F E | R E A L E S TAT E | S P O RT S | T R AV E L | W E AT H E R

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

REAL ESTATE

SPORTS

NEWS

Tennis group is a bunch of all-stars.

See this week’s weather photo contest winner.

PAGE 23A.

A home in Bay Isles sells for $2.2 million.

PAGE 15A.

PAGE 18A.

Rita and Noah Koike show off the free shirts they won prior to the beginning of the final singles match.

Photos by Rachel S. O’Hara

James Blake signs autographs for the ball boys and girls, as well as other fans, after winning the Sarasota Open.

tennis town by Rachel S. O’Hara | Staff Photographer

Stephen Huss goes for a backhanded volley. Huss and Ashley Fisher beat Alex Bogomolov Jr. and Alex Kuzetsov 6-3 6-4 Sunday, May 1.

champion

Courtship

The Sarasota Open concluded Sunday, May 1 with James Blake securing the 2011 title. The weeklong USTA tournament, held at the Tennis Gardens facility at the Longboat Key Club and Resort, included singles and doubles matches and drew 33,130 people. After two days of qualifying rounds, the players who made it through continued playing in the main-draw matches.

The final singles match was between James Blake and Alex Bogomolov Jr. Blake was one of the biggest names of the tournament and won the match 6-2, 6-2.

Bogomolov was also in the final doubles match with his partner, Alex Kuzetsov, versus Ashley Fisher and Stephen Huss. Fisher and Huss won the doubles final match 6-3, 6-4.

The winners and finalists of the Open received crystal trophies as well as cash prizes.

Juan Pablo Brzezicki gets low for a difficult shot during the main draw round.

Alex Bogomolov Jr. goes for a forehand shot during the final singles match against James Blake.

See more SARASOTA OPEN PHOTOS / Page 20A

Did you know?

• Sarasota Open winner James Blake loves to play golf in his free time.

• After winning the Sarasota Open, Blake, No. 11 seed in the tournament, said he plans to play in the Savannah Open.

• Blake says it is tough to play against his friends, such as Amer Delic (who was also in the Open) and Andy Roddick.

When they have played one another before, they played hard on the court and tried to beat one another and then went out to dinner or played golf.

• James Ward, of Great Britain, No. 30 seed, who won the 2009 Sarasota Open, says his backhand is his best shot. He is also a huge soccer fan.

• Eric Prodon, of France, No. 16 seed, who also played in the Sarasota Open two years ago, considers the Sarasota Open to be one of his favorite challenge opens worldwide because “nothing is missing.”

• Pierre-Ludovic Duclos, of Canada, No. 19 seed, enjoys U.S. tournaments more than international tournaments. He used to play hockey and still loves to watch it on TV.

LONGBOAT Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

real estate | transactions By Robin Hartill | Community Editor

15A

Lynne Koy presents her

LuxuRy PReMIeR ◆

COLLeCTIOn◆ BIRD KEY - Classic Mediterranean home on open bay with gorgeous sunset views and deep water docking. www.344WRoyalFlamingo.com $3,250,000

Photo courtesy of Roger Pettingell

This home at 541 Harbor Cove Circle has four bedrooms, four-and-a-half bathrooms, a pool and 5,835 square feet of living area. It sold for $2.2 million.

A home in Bay Isles sells for $2.2 million Isabella Paspa sold her home at 541 Harbor Cove Circle to John and Marilyn Kucharski, of Wayland, Mass., for $2.2 million. Built in 1999, the 5,835-squarefoot home has four bedrooms, four-anda-half bathrooms and a swimming pool.

The property sold for $545,000 in December 1996.

The sale was the largest of 11 key transactions recorded between April 18 and April 22 at the Sarasota and Manatee county courthouses and the sole sale to exceed $1 million. Of the week’s transactions, seven occurred on Longboat Key, including three in Manatee County, two took place on Lido Key and one each occurred on St. Armands and Bird keys.

Country Club Shores

PS (2010) Properties LLC, a Delaware limited-liability company with a 597 Cutter Lane address, transferred the property at 585 Cutter Lane in Country Club Shores to Armando Linde, trustee of the Armando S. Linde Revocable Trust, and Philippa Maroney, as trustee of the Philippa Fe-

licity Revocable Trust. Ownership of the property was transferred in a separate warranty deed from the revocable trust to Linde and Maroney, husband and wife, of Punta Gorda, for $665,000. Built in 1973, the 2,537-square-foot home has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half bathrooms and a swimming pool. It sold for $1.65 million in November 2005.

Longboat Cove

Arline Rosenberg, Joel Rosenberg and Sue Ann Rosenberg Wieser, of Asheville, N.C., sold Unit 202 at the 26-unit Longboat Cove, 5461 Gulf of Mexico Drive, to Bret Henricks and Donna Bhisitkul, husband and wife, of Lakeland, for $525,000.

Built in 1980, the 1,516-square-foot unit has three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

It last sold for $275,000 in June 1993.

E PRICCED U RED

LiDO ShOreS – Sweeping views of the Bay, John Ringling Bridge & Downtown Sarasota will mesmerize you from this spectacular custom built 5BR/5.3BA furnished home. www.1418JohnRinglingPkwy.com $3,795,000

BirD KeY - Fabulous 4BD/4.5BA canal front home on deep sailboat water. Stunning foyer, gourmet kitchen & game room with bay views. www.647Nowl.com $1,995,000 E PRICCED U D E R

BirD KeY - Sprawling sanctuary once occupied by famous movie star with fabulous grounds and partial bay views! www.201Seagull.com $1,495,000 NG

ISTI

L NEW

KeY TOWer SOUTh – Fabulous full gulf views and expansive white sand beach surround this 2 BD/2BA turnkey furnished condominium home that is tastefully decorated w/one covered $569,000 parking space.

NG

ISTI

L NEW

NEW

ING

LIST

Longbeach Village

Rudolf Wunsch Jr., of Winter Haven, sold his home at 581 Broadway in the

SEE REAL ESTATE / PAGE 16A

Lookin g for a WOW?

CONDO ON The BAY – Endless day and night views of bay, bridge, and LBK yacht basin, Beautiful 2BR/2BA condominium updated by Barbara Gardner $455,000 of Collins Interiors.

SUNSeT BeACh – Direct Gulf Views!

Spectacular gulf views and vibrant sunsets from this fully furnished 2BR/2BA condominium that has been meticulously maintained. $509,000

LONGBOAT hArBOUr – 2 Bedroom / 2 Bath fully furnished with beautiful bay views and $309,000 deeded beach access.

SeAPLACe – Recently updated kitchen with warm pecan cabinetry and granite counters in this 2 BD/2BA condominium with gulf views $469,000

SeAPLACe - Warm and inviting 2BD/2BA condominium home that is fully furnished, light and bright and ready for you to move right in. $349,000

CASTiLLiAN – Direct Gulf View!

Tastefully furnished 2BD/2BA penthouse with views of the Gulf of Mexico from most rooms. $559,000

The ShOre - Fabulous gulf front views from this 2BD/2BA updated condominium that is tastefully furnished. $629,000

NEW

GRAND BAY - newest, most sought after building has a beautifully designed Antigua floor plan with expansive views of Sarasota Bay and city skyline with no buildings to obstruct view. Grand Bay is one of the most active communities on Longboat Key. Includes membership in the Bay Isles Beach Club. $1,425,000

Joan Koplin, GRI

56279

Signature Sotheby’s International Realty | 50 Central Avenue | Suite 110 l Sarasota, FL

Cell: 941.315.3221 | Email: Joan.Koplin@SothebysRealty.com

SeAPLACe - Direct Gulf Views!

Fully furnished 2BD/2BA condominium residence with great amenities that include two pools and a club house with fitness center. $409,000

BAYOU SOUND – Beautifully furnished 3 bedroom, 3 bath home with updated kitchen on tranquil lagoon with soaring marble fireplace. $749,000

ING

LIST

Special Jumbo Mortgage Rates

941-388-5551

Loans up to 3 million

52231

Longboat’s trusted lender since 1995

3.75% - 0 pts - 5/1 arm APR 3.596 4.0% - 0 pts - 7/1 arm APR 3.704

Rates effective as of 02/01/11. All above rates available for purchases or refinances on single-family owner-occupied and second homes. Annual Percentage Rates (APR) reflect a minimum 25% equity based on appraisal or sale price, whichever is lower. Additional terms and conditions apply. Rates are subject to change without notice. 5/1 and 7/1 arm margin 2.5% plus 1 yr labor index 2/2/6 caps.

941-383-8273

◆ 22 SALES YEAR TO DATE IN 2011 ◆

lhansen44@comcast.net or laurahansen@michaelsaunders.com

52428

$398,000 REDUCTION

440 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 941-383-7591

Tour Lynne’s properties at www.lynnekoy.com Broker / Associate, CRB, CRS, GRI Previews International Property Specialist International President’s Premier, Involved Citizen: Sarasota Opera, SPARCC, Make-a Wish, Meals on Wheels, Breast Cancer Awareness

41 Year Resident of Longboat Key

Michael Saunders & Company Licensed Real Estate Broker

lkoy@coldwellbanker.com

At The Chart House on Longboat Key

Laura D. Hansen, GRI

4BR/3.5BA in gated Landings. New kitchen and luxurious master suite, all mahogany library, bonus recreation room, hurricane protection, large pool, lushly landscaped. $997,000

941.387.1803

Global Marketing: NYtimes.com • Birdkeynews.com • Coldwellbanker.com • Worldproperties.com • Trulia.com •LynneKoy.com • Rightmoves.com • Greatwaterfrontliving.com • Realtor.com • Zillow.com You can search Lynne’s website in Follow me on 13 languages – including English.

Facebook / Twitter LinkedIn / YouTube

16A YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT Observer

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

REAL ESTATE / FROM PAGE 15A

BUILDING PERMITS

Longbeach Village to Mark and Melanie Barber for $395,000. Built in 1988, the 1,692-square-foot home has two bedrooms and three bathrooms. It last sold for $168,000 in April 1994.

These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of April 22 through April 28, in order of dollar amounts. (GMD = Gulf of Mexico Drive) Address Permit

1000 Longboat Club Road Alteration

Longboat Harbour

Henry Gitzen, of Bradenton, sold Unit 201 in Building D at Longboat Harbour, 4340 Falmouth Drive, to Joyce Mount, Gordon Mount and Paula Mount, trustees, of Toronto, for $195,000. Built in 1969, the 1,092-square-foot unit has two bedrooms and two bathrooms.

Cedars East

Ronald and Barbara Newman, of Clarkston, Mich., sold Unit 23 at 657 Cedars Court in the 93-unit Cedars East to Robert Radin, of Brooklyn, N.Y., for $170,000. Built in 1988, the 1,244-square-foot unit has one bedroom and two bathrooms. It sold new for $155,000 in May 1988.

Boathouse on Longboat

Arthur and Susan Warshaw sold Boat Slip 1212 at the 194-slip Boathouse of Longboat, at 408 Gulf of Mexico Drive, to Terry Walker, of Ottawa, for $40,000. The slip last sold for $19,500 in March 1999.

Bird Key

Phyllis Bryant, of Venice, sold the home at 607 Owl Way, on Bird Key, to Donald and Margery Hetzel for $477,000. Built in 1966, the 1,768-square-foot home has three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a swimming pool. It last sold for $240,000 in February 1999.

St. Armands

Ashwini and Leslie Bahl, 55 N. Washington Drive, sold the home at 233 Blvd. of the Presidents in the St. Armands Division of the John Ringling Estates Inc. to Diana Clagett, of Washington, D.C., for $470,000.

Built in 1957, the 1,565-square-foot home has three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

It last sold for $390,000 in May 2010.

Dora Walters

This home at 581 Broadway, in the Village, has two bedrooms, three bathrooms and 1,692 square feet of living area. It sold for $395,000.

Key Towers South

David and Cheryl Riedlinger, 333 Benjamin Franklin Drive, sold Unit 7-B at Key Towers South, 1750 Benjamin Franklin Drive on Lido Key, to Warren and Chang Groudan, of Albertson, N.Y., for $515,625.

Built in 1970, the 1,364-square-foot unit has two bedrooms and two bathrooms. It last sold for $300,000 in March 1996.

Also at Key Towers South, Stephan and Suzy Frater, of Providence, R.I., sold Unit 9-C at Key Towers South to Mitchell and DeAnn Mealy, of Jefferson City, Mo., for $395,000. Built in 1970, the 1,364-squarefoot unit has two bedrooms and two bathrooms. It last sold for $282,000 in June 1999.

4125 GMD

Alteration

Paul Steinwachs

$200,000

2425 GMD

Alteration

Graham Toft

$69,320

2301 GMD

Alteration

Charles Staloff

$66,000

4825 GMD

Alteration

Linda Bagley Wiggs

$50,457

3609 Fair Oaks Place

Alteration

Pamela Connolly

$32,000

1701 GMD

Alteration

David Van Howe

$32,000

6817 GMD

Alteration

Samuel Loshaek

$26,396

6565 Gulfside Road

Alteration

Benedict Maniscalo

$18,247

3260 Bayou Sound

Alteration

Terence Walker, trustee

$18,000

2075 GMD

Alteration

Sandra Kamin, trustee

$13,900

531 Forrest Way

Alteration

Thomas Larsen

$13,490

817 Evergreen Way

Alteration

William Smith III

$13,460

775 Longboat Club Road

Alteration

Barbara Timm

$12,917

3471 Bayou Sound

Alteration

Jacqueline Dixon, trustee

$10,000

3491 Bayou Sound

Re-roof

Spectrum Properties Ltd.

$8,875

541-549 Spanish Drive N.

Alteration

Burton Beam

$8,790

3221 Bayou Way

Alteration

Michael Ryan

$8,000

3691 Bayou Circle

Alteration

Thomas Cornell

$5,660

615 Dream Island Road

Re-roof

Samuel Sansone

$2,482

670 Land’s End

Alteration

Russell Coit

$1,345

601 Longboat Club Road

Alteration

Anthony Ciliberti

$1,200

6700 GMD

Addition

Alan Lenowitz

$645

6920 Poinsettia Ave.

Re-roof

Irene Klein

$300

220 Sands Point Road 4711 GMD

Visit our website to see a map of this week’s transactions

513 Ketch Lane

Temporary event Key Club Associates Temporary event Oprock Longboat Fee LLC Certificate of occupancy Miles Group Longboat LLC

$0 $0 N/A

www.YourObserver.com

From The Gulf Beaches... ...To The Golf Courses!!!

Extraordinary Properties Unrivaled Expertise MOULTOn Exceptional Results MiChAEL Michael Saunders & Company

Sylvia Zimmerman

Realtor®

Voted SaraSota magazine’S

FIVE STARSM

Certified Residential Specialist

2008, 2009, 2010

Licensed Real Estate Broker

BeSt in Client SatiSfaCtion real eState agent

SylviaSellSSaraSota.com cell: 941.350.5022 Featured Listings

ED EDUC JUST R

NEW LISTING

Vizcaya

WATER CLUB - Coveted southern exposure on the 7th floor w/beautiful city, gulf and bay views elegantly furnished. A3919693 $2,495,000

Applicant Amount Privateer South Condominium Association $279,041.86

Fabulous Penthouse MLS# A3941721 $2,250,000

En PROVEnCE - Exquisitely furnished gulf front condo that feels like a private home on the beach. A3929322 $2,450,000

Co-listed with Marlene Liberman Grand Bay Village Walk

Townhouse, private pool MLS# 3942605 $275,000

Regent Place

Founders Club

Bay views, City lights Elegant furnished Model MLS# A3941143 $1,495,000 MLS# A3938017 $3,650,000

Water Front Properties

ED EDUC JUST R

3BR/3BA Direct Gulf Front MLS# A3938019 $2,495,000

NEW LISTING

Fairway Bay

SHORT SALE Lido Key

Jungle Queen

Bay views, renovated Close to beach, renovated 5BR + den, custom built!

MLS# A3938678 $445,000 MLS# A3938053 $1,050,000 MLS# A3938200 $1,945,000

Grande Riviera Stunning water views, gorgeous unit MLS# A3938020 $2,095,000 Grand Bay - short sale 2BR/2BA, Fabulous bay views MLS# A3938226 $549,000 Beachcomber - short sale Beach get-a-way, rental income MLS# A3938222 $199,500

COUnTRY CLUB ShORES – New construction 4BR canal front home. A3929970 $995,000

LOnGBOAT ViLLAGE - Key West style home overlooking intracoastal waterway. A3934895 $775,000

Golf Course Properties

SUTTOn PLACE - Ground floor condo w/bay views & remodeled kit. Pet friendly. A3928481 $300,000

Lakewood Ranch

4BR Beautiful, big pool area MLS# A3938167 $449,500

Founders Club

4BR/4BA, Nice upgrades MLS# A3938029 $1,495,000

Co-Listed Properties

Lakewood Ranch

4BR/3.5BA Former Model MLS# A3938151 $1,399,500

with Marlene Liberman ~ Cell 941.232.9298

440 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228 Office 941.383.7591 | Mobile 941.928.3559 | SarasotasFinestProperties.com

Bay Plaza 2BR. Downtown Sarasota, views MLS# A3938871 $450,000 Tangerine Bay 2BR plus den, luxurious Bayfront MLS# A3938164 $975,000 Longboat Key Towers Fabulous views of the Gulf and bay MLS# A3940481 $924,000 This material is based upon information that we consider reliable, but because it has been supplied by third parties, we cannot represent that it is accurate or complete, and it should not be relied upon as such. This offering is subject to errors, omissions, changes, including price, or withdrawal without notice.

56630

BAY FROnT ESTATE LOT - 100’ frontage to build dream home w/deeded beach access. A3937319 $1,975,000 56412

SARABAnDE PEnThOUSE - Come view this spacious 3 bedroom condo in the premier bay front building. A3940572 $2,175,000

LONGBOAT Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

17A

You may not know what you’re looking for, it. but now you know where to

find

To be notified of special events and open houses, we invite you to join our private registry at SignatureSIR.com

1321 Point Crisp Road Welcome to Casa del Ray and its relaxed yet sophisticated island lifestyle. The architectural elements blend a classic Mediterranean design with large squared windows and a wonderfully symmetrical layout to achieve an elegant yet functional feel throughout the home.

Schemmel Property Group, Joel Schemmel 941.587.4894 $4,950,000

7025 Saddle Creek Circle Brian Wood

$999,000 941.928.8408

4857 Primrose Path Judie Berger

$900,000 941.928.3424

6300 Midnight Pass Road, 606 Tom Kelley

$899,000 941.320.5530

1855 Orchid Street Roberta Tengerdy & Carolyn Collins

$849,000 941.320.0722

1707 Flower Drive Cheryl Loeffler

$790,000 941.302.9674

934 Contento Street Judie Berger

$729,000 941.928.3424

851 Siesta Key Circle Cindy Migone

14021 Bellagio Way, 312 Sheldon Paley

$699,000 941.356.1857

2110 Harbourside Drive, 536 Sheldon Paley

$599,000 941.356.1857

4822 Ocean Boulevard, 10B Keith Whitfield

$575,000 941.302.4256

601 Ambassador Lane Terry Hayes

$569,000 941.302.3100

1718 Cherry Lane Charlotte Hedge

$550,000 941.356.9506

4621 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 12A Martha Marlar

$550,000 941.350.0100

941.364.4000

$2,495,000 941.809.0380

877.317.7003

SignatureSIR.com

©MMX Signature Sotheby’s International Realty, licensed real estate broker. ®,™ and SM are licensed trademarks to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated.

To preview open house selections from your phone, scan this code.

51175

464 Golden Gate Point, 703 Schemmel Property Group, Sharon Chiodi & Joel Schemmel

$3,195,000 941.812.7438

18A YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT Observer

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

Bruce A. Myer

winning combination by Rachel S. O’Hara | Staff Photographer

941.387.1859 BruceMyer.com

SELLING LUXURY REAL ESTATE FOR OVER 30 YEARS

Key Club tennis group is a bunch of all-stars

Rated in the Top 100 agents in Florida JUST REDUCED!

JUST LISTED!

JUST LISTED!

SLEEPY LAGOON - Unique 7BR/5.5BA home on THE SHORE - 3BR/3BA ground floor condo canal with dock/lift. $599,000 tastefully updated. Large water views. $699,000

VILLA DI LANCIA - 3BR/3BA corner residence w/ large terrace. Fully furnished. $1,599,000

JUST REDUCED!

JUST LISTED!

JUST REDUCED!

WATER CLUB 2-3BR/3BA Furnished Penthouse. Bay/gulf views. $1,395,000

SEA GATE- Beautiful 2BR/2BA condo with spanning ocean views Offered at $649,000

QUEENS HARBOUR - 4BR+Den/3.5BA home with beautiful bay views and private dock. $2,295,000

Longboat Key Club members played tennis and raised money for the All-Star Children’s Foundation Friday, April 22, during the Lunch Bunch fundraising event at the Longboat Key Club Tennis Gardens. The event was held in memory of Andy Cail, who started the Lunch Bunch group in 2006.

The top male and female players each received two tickets to the Sarasota Open, which took place last week, and will have

their names put on a plaque that will be displayed with the trophy at the Tennis Gardens facility. The second-place winners received two tickets to the finals of the Sarasota Open.

For the men, the top-three winners were Bob Coyne, Tom Cail Jr. and Lawrence Coleman. For the women, the top-three winners were Ellen Levine, Sammy Smith and Cheryl Viera.

JUST LISTED!

Inn On The Beach GREAT INCOME OPPORTUNITY!

Photos by Rachel S. O’Hara

CLUB SUITE Bldg. 2 $429,500 Just Listed!

CLUB SUITE Bldg. 4 $429,500 Just Listed!

CLUB SUITE Bldg. 2 $439,000 CLUB SUITE Bldg. 5 $239,000

Beachplace

Jim Long and Ken Gorman pose with Tom Cail Jr. and Tom Cail III. The Cails won the match against Long and Gorman.

REGENT PLACE - Stunning furnished 3BR+Den/3.5BA upper floor gulf front residence offering over 3,500 SF $2,895,000

Fairway Bay

3BR/3BA

$499,000 Just Listed!

2BR/2.5BA

$449,000 Just Reduced!

2BR/2BA

$415,000

Oversized garage and 3 terraces!

2-Story condo with boat dock!

Michael Saunders & Company Exceptional People People & & Properties Properties Exceptional

Updated & partially furnished with covered parking space!

2BR/2BA 4th Floor $449,000 2BR/2BA 2nd Floor $429,000

2BR/2BA

$349,000 Just Reduced!

2BR/2BA

$329,000 Just Reduced!

Jeanne Brown goes for the volley during her doubles match.

Lorraine Falivene, Ronni Minnig, John Woods and Graci McGillicuddy made up the committee of the people who were in charge of the fundraiser.

Licensed Real Estate Broker • Exclusive Affiliate Of Sotheby’s International Realty & Leading Estates Of The World

Furnished with Bay views!

Partially furnished and updated with great bay views!

VIEW ALL OUR LISTINGS at LONGBOATKEYFORSALE

Steve Abbott broker - Associate CrAig Abbott broker - Associate (941) 374-3003

COUNTRY CLUB SHORES 3BR/4BA Exquisite home SUNRISE SHORES - Furnished 2BR + Den/2BA PIERRE- 3BR/3BA Two terraces and Gulf views Offered at $799,000 $349,000 on canal with many upgrades. $1,499,000 with bay views.

I HAVE CLOSED 16 SUCCESSFUL TRANSACTIONS IN 2011 AND HAVE 8 PENDING CLOSINGS!

SalE PEn Ding

PEn Ding

SalE PEn Ding

HUDSON LANDINGS - Downtown 2-3BR/2BA condo with dock/lift and 1-car garage. $399,000

• TIDES OF LONGBOAT 3 BD/3BA. Gulf views from • BUTTONWOOD COVE WIDE OPEN WATER

Bruce A. Myer

living room, dining room, kitchen, lanai and all 3 bedrooms. VIEWS highlight 2BD/2BA split plan condo, 5 acres with Beautifully maintained complex offers pool, tennis and frontage on Gulf & Bay. Granite countertops in completely under-bldg. parking. Right on magnificent white sand beach remodeled kitchen, club house, pool, tennis, racketball, boat MLS#A3918027.. ............................REDUCED TO $749,000! slips & parking garage. Furnished. MLS#A3911622 .. $449,000

DIRECT: 941-387-1847 CELL: 941-376-5311 EMAIL: Bruce@BruceMyer.com

• SAND CAY BEST VALUE 2BD/2BA. Beautifully • RIVERS RIDGE 4BD/4BA home shows like a model. updated and turnkey furnished in popular Gulf front rental Spacious 2 car garage, patio & pool. Wonderful family home on complex. Gulf view from outdoor balcony MLS#A3937165. “no thru traffic” circle. Walk to DeSoto Nat’l Park and Robinson Steve 941-374-3003 ................................................$399,000 Preserve. 3400 sq. ft. MLS#A3917532. ........................ $495,000 Abbott Group / Sold

56007

BUTTONWOOD COVE MARINA BAY BUTTONWOOD DR. BAYVIEW DRIVE NORTON ST. CASTILLIAN LONGBOAT BEACH HOUSE THE WATER CLUB WINDING OAKS

LBK LBK LBK LBK LBK LBK LBK LBK LBK

$377,500 $980,000 $712,500 $400,000 $510,000 $860,000 $460,000 $1,350,000 $425,000

99TH ST. NW BAY DRIVE NO. BAY DRIVE NO. RESORT AT LONGBOAT KEY CLUB BUTTONWOOD HARBOUR BEACH RESIDENCES MOURNING DOVE DR. 565 SANCTUARY DR. CRESTWOOD DR.

For vi rtuAl tou rS CraigAbbott.michaelsaunders.com

BRADENTON BRADENTON BRADENTON LBK LBK LIDO KEY BIRD KEY LBK ANNA MARIA

440 Gulf of Mexico Drive • Longboat Key, Florida 34228

$850,000 $600,000 $500,000 $945,000 $941,000 $2,995,000 $4,625,000 $1,875,000 $1,350,000

56013

Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate 201 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Ste. 1 Longboat Key At the Charthouse

Visit our website: BruceMyer.com

(941) 383-1990

• BUTTONWOOD HARBOUR Water front home, 3BD/3BA features Great room w/fireplace, cathedral ceiling & opens onto screened deck overlooking spa & pool.

3500 SF includes oversized 2-car garage. New roof. New AC. 6000 lb boat lift. MLS#A3918027... .....REDUCED! $695,000 • BEACHPLACE Surround yourself with spectacular • HARBOUR OAKS Like a single Sfamily alE home, but no views: Gulf, Bay & golf course. Beautiful 20” stone tile in all living PEnceilings, maintenance! 3BD/2.5BA end unit with no steps. Vaulted Ding areas, new stainless appliances, turnkey furnished. Under bldg skylight, kitchen, family room, formal dining, living room, fireplace, turnkey furnished. 2 car garage, membership to Bay Isles Beach parking space. 2 BD/2BA. A must see! MLS#A3932712 $449,000 SalE Club. A Must See! MLS#A394115....SALE PENDING $449,000

JUST REDUCED!

LIDO BEACH CLUB - Furnished 2BR/2BA, 10th CLUB LONGBOAT - Furnished 3BR/2BA tennis $445,000 floor condo with Gulf view. $699,900 player’s haven on the Gulf!

(800) 887-2968

★ SaraSota Magazine’S five Star “beSt in Client SatiSfaCtion” award. ’06, ’07, ’08, ’09, ’10, ’11 ★ • BUTTONWOOD COVE 3BD/2BA split plan end unit RED UCE $ w/water views over cove. New kitchen w/granite & stainless steel D 10 0,00 appliances & newer furnishings. Wonderful beach to bay complex.

0 Under bldg parking MLS#A3932389 .....................................$429,000

LONGBOAT Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

19A

GEENNTT I INN SSAALLEESS VV O O LL U U ME E ### 1 11AAA G E N T and I NManatee S A LCounties E S VinO2009 L UM ME forG Sarasota

BUSINESS OBSERVER

TOP SALES ASSOCIATE forfor Sarasota and Manatee Counties Sarasota and Manatee Countiesinin2009 2009

#1 COLDWELL BANKER AGENT

By Robin Hartill | Community Editor

+ Rios named director of communications at Key Club Sandra Rios is the new director of communications at the Longboat Key Club and Resort. Rios was public relations manager at MGM Grand at Foxwoods and Foxwoods Resort Casino, in Connecticut, and went on to serve as director of business development and public relations in corporate sales Rios at Longwood Events, in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, where she was responsible for strategic business development and sales efforts for three luxury event venues.

Rios most recently worked as director of sales at World Yacht LLC, in New York City. She brings a background in the hospitality industry with a strong focus on culinary brand development.

Ranked the top # 1# 1C C OO LL D WWE E LL Lin EERRofAAGGEENNTT D LB BA AN NKK1% in Florida for 2009 Florida for2009 2009 Worldwide in in Florida for Coldwell Banker Associates

Ackerman Ackerman Ackerman

BARBARA BBAARRBBAARRAA

REALTOR®

REALTOR ® REALTOR

®

The name to know in real estate The nam e to know in real estate www.barbaraackerman.com The name to know in real estate www.barbaraackerman.com NEW NEW LIS LIS TIN TIN www.barbaraackerman.com G G

As seen on Sarasota’s

“Hot ProPerties”

Segment Every Other Wednesday!

NEW

www.barbaraackerman.com

Siestas Bayside – Deep Water Canal Gorgeous waterfront home fully updated with wood & granite throughout, 2,641 square feet, three bedrooms/ two baths and a large tropical patio area with pool/spa, boat $ dock with lift and floating jet-ski dock.

918,000 JUS

T RE

LIS

TIN

G

Pierre – Spectacular Views Bird Key – Direct Bay Front Gorgeous two-story home on 213’ of waterfront Gulf, Golf Course, Sarasota Bay, & downtown city lights with wide open City, Bay and canal views. 4BR/5 views from this 2BR + den/3rd BR apartment on the full & 2 half baths, Infinity edge pool & boat dock 8th floor with 3 full bathrooms and 2,410 sq. ft. Behind $ with 20,000 lb lift.

4,950,000 the gates of the Longboat Key Club. $1,095,000 PEN

DIN

DUC

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Sanctuary IV – Gulf, Bay, & City Views Indian Beach – Bay Front Luxury La Bellasara – Golden Gate Point 3 bedroom, 3 full bath apartment on the 7th floor offers amazing views, daily sunrises and sunsets from the 2 large terraces, spacious interiors and wonderful $ views at an incredible value.

1,125,000

Gated 4 bedroom waterfront home with 5,215 SF, soaring ceilings, granite-inlaid marble floors, breathtaking sunsets and a fabulous Bay Shore Road location! Extreme $ 1,999,500 value has never looked better.

Sparkling water views from this amazing 5,585SF Penthouse apartment with 4BR/5BA, private his & hers studies, wine cellar & separate tasting area, media room and large terrace overlooking the Bay and downtown. Private $ 5,950,000 boat dock & 2 car garage.

North LoNgboat KeyI–N Waterfront ENDSq. Ft.G $1,795,000 4br + Study P4,700 SLeepy LagooN – gulf Front New in 2002 P6br/6.5ba ENDING

$4,875,000

MaINLaND – bay Front INFt.G tidewood 5br 4,600 ENDSq.

$1,495,000

P

Nate, Laura and Ron Zammit

Courtesy photos

Longboat Key – Direct Beach Front “The Johnson Estate” Gated privacy on 2+ acres w/ 150 ft. of Gulf front. 10,000 SF. 7BR/6.5BA includes separate attached guest wing. New in ‘07. $ 11,500,000 www.Johnsonestatelongboatkey.com

reD roCK terraCe - oyster bay Vacant Lot Lot w/ house plans $439,000 graND bay I - Longboat Key bay Front 9th Floor 3br/3ba 2,550 Sq. Ft.$1,275,000

Beachplace III – Direct Gulf Front A breath of fresh air! Professionally turnkey furnished 3rd floor beach front apartment. Crisp blue and white color palette, bright tile floors, and gorgeous $ Gulf views from every room.

695,000

FaIrWay bay - Longboat Key townhouse 2br/3ba 1,626 Sq. Ft. $539,000

+ Sarasota Cupcake Co. to open on St. Armands Circle Nate Zammit will open Sarasota Cupcake Co. this month at 27 N. Blvd. of the Presidents on St. Armands Circle.

Zammit is the son of Ron Zammit, owner of Cakes by Ron, in Sarasota. Zammit has worked full-time at Cakes by Ron for six years. Zammit said that his most popular cupcake flavors include Boston cream, red velvet, strawberry and piña colada. For information, go to cakesbyron.com/natescakes.asp.

MarINa toWer – Downtown Gbay Front DIN 10th Floor 4br/4.5ba Sq. Ft. $2,250,000 PEN5,800

graND bay II - bay & City Views 4th Floor 3br/3ba 2,781 Sq. Ft. $1,395,000 pIerre - Longboat Key Direct beach Front 3rd Floor 3 br/3ba 2,410 Sq. Ft. $799,000

Water Club I - Gulf & Bay Views

6th floor 3 bedroom, 3 full bath apartment with beautiful water views, private elevator, 10 foot ceilings and two expansive terraces for viewing nightly sunsets. Gated community with $ excellent amenities.

1,699,000

beaChpLaCe III – Direct gulf Front #302 - 3rd Floor 2br/2ba $695,000 Longboat Key – boater’s Fantasy Deep Water Frontage 3,435 Sq. Ft. $995,000

Water Club I - Direct Beach Front Exquisite 3,045 SF luxury on 5th floor w/Gulf views, private elevator foyer, 3BR/4BA, study area in master suite. Beautiful window treatments, plantation shut$ ters, marble floors, full wine bar.

1,800,000

Sanctuary III - Behind the Gates Lido Shores - Direct Gulf Front Palazzo Sea Gate Club - Direct Gulf Front Desirable 5th floor Southeast corner 3BR/2.5 BA Combines 200 ft. of seawalled Gulf front with Floor-to-ceiling glass frames the Beach and Sunsets with wide open Bay, City, and LBK Club Golf Course private Dock and Beach access. This 7,415 SF from every room in this 1,470 SF 2BR/2BA with higher residence built in 2003 has 5BR/8BA, exercise ceilings, wood floors and 2 terraces. Great amentias and views. 3rd bedroom doubles as a den with quality room, his and her bath & studies, 50 ft pool/spa on-site management. Walk to shopping. $579,000 built-in’s and renovated kitchen has granite, $ $ & 5-car garage.

8,900,000 wood and newer appliances.

799,900

Owner Lynda Hall, Mary Printz, Lesley Lechner, Denise Mason, Brittany Crum, Kathy Shumway, Suzanne Famiglietti and Becki Westbrook

Staff and clients of Green Ginger Hair Design, on St. Armands Circle, celebrated the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton with a “Royal Reception,” complete with wedding cake, champagne, mimosas and cucumber sandwiches.

Female staff members wore fascinators, which they made at the salon on Thursday between appointments.

La Bellasara - Downtown Bay Front Outstanding Bay, Marina, & City Skyline views! 3BR/4.5BA + study or 4th BR with 3,370 SF. 28’ balcony w/ summer kitchen, private elevator lobby, 2-car garage & gated $ security. Turnkey furnished.

2,395,000

Bird Key - Wide Open Bay Front

Stunning Bay views from this fully renovated contemporary 2-story home on fabulous Bird Key. 3 BR + large office/4th BR, 4.5 baths, family room, private dock with boat lift &2-car garage. $2,195,000

Savoy - Downtown Bay View

3 BR + den / 3.5 BA in this 3,170 Sq. Ft. downtown showpiece apartment on the 9th floor. Enjoy Sarasota Bay sunsets and dazzling city lights from this most prestigious $ locale. 2 car private garage incl.

1,985,000

Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate, LLC ● 201 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Suite #1, Longboat Key 941-387-1820 Direct ● 800-910-8728 Toll-Free

All of Barbara’s listings are linked Internationally in 13 languages.

55345

+ Green Ginger Hair Design holds reception fit for royalty

20A YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT Observer

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

SARASOTA OPEN PHOTOS / From page 14A

By the numbers 2,500 — Number of fans sponsor Iberia Bank gave away during the Sarasota Open 7,000 — Number of tennis balls used during the tournament 33,130 — Number of people who attended the tournament 120 — Number of towels players used on the courts 450 — Number of volunteers who helped during the event 7 — Age of the youngest ball girl

Marinko Matosevic goes for the ball during his qualifying-round match against James Blake.

Right: Alex Kuzetsov hits a backhand during the final doubles match.

Ryan Sweeting hits the ball during his main draw match against Lester Cook.

James Blake pumps his fist into the air after winning the finals of the Sarasota Open.

Anthony Hartman, Kelly Drouin and Malcom and Janice Baker show their support on the final day of play.

Talk to Tina Today - Longboat Key’s International Connection

CEDARS EAST

Impeccably maintained, updated town home featuring new floors, Pella windows, siding, roof, master and guest baths plus renovated balcony, newer a/c and appliances. View of the bay from master bedroom plus nature views. One car garage with lots of storage. Top tennis resort community includes on site rental program 10 Har-Tru courts and Jr Olympic size $349,900 heated pool.

56699

56705

INCREDIBLE VALUE! Spectacular Gulf and sunset views overlooking lush tropical grounds extending to miles of fabulous beaches. This is the lowest priced 2BR/2BA end unit available in this popular community nestled between the azure blue waters of the Gulf and tranquil Bishop’s Bayou in a serene and charming setting. $475,000

Longboat Key Realty 6000 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, FL 34217

941.383.5502 or 941.724.7228 CathyMeldahl@michaelsaunders.com

3174 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Longboat Key, FL 34228

Tina Rudek • 941-920-0303 • Tina@LBKRealEstate.com www.engelvoelkers.com/longboatkey

Michael Saunders & Company Cathy C. Meldahl P.A. Licensed Real Estate Broker

REID MURPHY PREsEnts...

Luxury on the Water

Longboat Key GULF FRONT - Wonderful 5 bedroom, 5 bath home on 1.2 acres with 44 ft. beach side lap pool. Other features include a kitchen with stainless appliances, 4 car garage and abundant fruit trees. ...........................FURNISHED $5,440,000 GULF FRONT - Corner ground floor 2/2 condo, beautifully updated, decorated and furnished, Pet friendly..... PENDING $549,000 HARBOUR LINKS - An awesome lifestyle awaits you in this corner villa with 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, a den and a 2 car garage, located on the Harbourside Golf course at the Longboat Key Club. The community is pet friendly and offers Beach Club membership. . ................................................................................................................................FURNISHED $409,000 YOU WILL ENJOY BAY & MARINA VIEWS from the living room, master bedroom & the screened porch of this 2/2 condo located at the south end of LBK. The community offers a heated pool, boat docks, fitness facility. Furnished...........$339,000 BANYAN BAY - Beach to Bay complex. This charming 2 bedroom condo is designed for seaside living. Tennis, pool, fishing pier. Pet Friendly................................................................................................................................................................$269,900 BAY HARBOUR - South end of LBK, 2/2 expertly renovated w/ direct bay and marina views. Amenities include boat docks, fishing pier heated pool. .......................................................................................................................................$395,000 LBK 2 bedroom and a den Village home - lovely treed lot - close to beach and bay.......................................... $489,000 WHITNEY BEACH - BEACH TO BAY - 1/1 in desirable community with boat docks, fishing pier, tennis courts, and a wonderful walking beach. 2 pets allowed .......................................................................................FURNISHED $199,000 UNIqUE 1 bedroom, 2 bath ground floor at Whitney Beach. Great amenities. 2 Pets allowed. FURNISHED $235,000 WINDWARD BAY - Sunrise, sunset! You’ll enjoy both from 2/2 renovated residence with unobstructed bay views.

The community offers 2 pools, tennis courts, fitness facility, and boat docks............................................................$399,000

Call Reid Today! 941.232.3304 www.reidmurphy.com

BAYFRONT ESTATE - w/ approx. 100 ft. on the bay and canal along one side. $2,435,000 GULFFRONT ESTATE – BEST BUY ON BEACH 1+ acres with a gated entrance and a private boardwalk to beach. Stunning Gulf, Beach and Sunset views!

REDUCED $5,700,000 WESTWAY ESTATE – 210 FT. DIRECTLY on New Pass, views to Gulf, outstanding sunsets. 4 BR main home plus 4 BR guest house. Gorgeous courtyard pool, dock, private beach access. $8,900,000 DIRECT BAYFRONT NEW MEDITERRANEAN MASTERPIECE 5 BR with magnificent pool/patio area $9,500,000 bayside plus patio off master suite. Designer finishes + gated w/lush landscaping.

ISLANDER CLUB – Fantastic gulf side 2/2 updated condo w/dramatic bay views from every room!

Beautiful beach & many amenities.

REDUCED $515,000 LONGBOAT HARBOUR – Bayfront with boat dock and great amenities. $270,000 NEW CONSTRUCTION – with custom finishes. Direct Bay views to the north, canal views to the south, protected boating water and walking distance to the beach. $1,875,000 GORGEOUS NEW CONSTRUCTION – Waterfront adjacent to shops & dining on St. Armands. Deepwater dock, steps to the beach. Architect Cliff Schultz design w/ impeccable finishes.

REDUCED $2,995,000 RITZ CARLTON TOWER RESIDENCE – 10th floor views of Sarasota Bay to Big Pass, plus marina views of Marina Jack. Southeast corner with two large terraces and morning sun. $2,700,000 BAYFRONT ESTATE – Gated, Private. Spectacular sunset vistas from home, terraces & pool. Private beach access. Boat dock & lift – BAYFRONT LIVING AT ITS BEST! REDUCED $3,450,000 SABAL COVE – Spacious 4BR w/first level magnificent master suite. Exquisite lakefront! $1,795,000 1266 1st St., Suite 9, Sarasota, FL 34236

Licensed Real Estate Broker

St. Armands Circle, Sarasota, FL (941) 388-4447

56694

bobbiebanan@michaelsaunders.com

Michael Saunders & Company 56693

developers Realty inc. Lic. R.e. Broker

BOBBIE BANAN, REALTOR® 356-2659 • 383-2659

Ambassador’s Circle

LONGBOAT Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

21A

Coldwell Banker

®

FLORIDAMOVES.COM A Home Search in 13 Different Languages only on FloridaMoves.com.

Longboat Key, Pierre. $1,095,000 3/3/1 MLS#A3942325 Barbara Ackerman 941-924-9000

O N LY R O O M E N O U G H FOR ONE

Anna Maria

Sarasota, Bird Key. $1,995,000 4/4.5/3 MLS#A3936580 Lynne Koy 941-924-9000

Longboat Key, Queens Harbour. $2,199,000 4/5.5/2 MLS#A3934524 Martina Coppenrath 941-924-9000

Sarasota, Old Oaks. $1,299,000 3/3/3 MLS#A3931082 David Jennings 941-388-3966

Longboat Key, Grand Bay. $829,000 3/3.5/1 MLS#A3933337 Roger Pettingell 941-924-9000

Voted #1 By Wall Street Journal Readers as the Real Estate Company of Choice*

Seaplace II $460,000 Lynn A. Luken, 941-388-3966 Become the proud own- Hansen Street $439,000 Barbara Ackerman, 941-924-9000 15,772 sf unique

* Wall Street Journal survey ranked Banker #1 among allcondo. measured Realtors® as the company they would consider using for future real estate transactions. er of Coldwell this comfortable 2BR/2BA Elevators.

MLS#A3940011 property. Plans are avail for 3,872 sf house to be built. MLS#A328625 2009 Residential Real Estate Survey; Wall Street Journal Marketing/Beta Research Corp.

Holmes Beach $995,000 Gabe/Charles Buky, 941-924-9000 6BR/4BA 2 furn Fairway Bay $449,000 Bruce Myer, 941-924-9000 2B/2B furnished canal The Bay Tower I $409,900 Kathy Scott, 941-388-3966 Impressive 2BR/2BA home in a tranquil waterfront setting. Pvt boat dock. MLS#A3911672 beach house units that can rent as a single house or two. MLS#A3913827 Bayfront condo. Elevators, exercise rooms, pantry. MLS#A3908173 Key Royale $594,000 Gabe/Charles Buky, 941-924-9000 Set your sights on Long Beach $424,900 Patrick DiPinto, 941-924-9000 Walk to the bay and Condo On The Bay Tower II $409,000 K. Scott/B. Sigurdson, 941-388-3966 beach! Completely remodeled 3BR/2Ba home. Beautiful! MLS#A3938301 luxury in this impressive, tile-roofed 3BR/2BA home. MLS#A3937700 Location, lifestyle & full bay views! Minutes to St. Armands and the beach Beachplace III $415,000 Maggie Hicks, 941-924-9000 This 2BR/2BA condo MLS#A3940208 Bird/Lido Key offers a peak of the golf course, tile & a new AC in 06. MLS#A3929732 Lido Key $3,795,000 Lynne Koy, 941-924-9000 Just reduced! Custom built Casa Del Mar $399,000 Maggie Hicks, 941-924-9000 Rewarding 2BR/2BA Sapphire Shores $325,000 David Jennings, 941-388-3966 You will live well in this welcoming 3BR/3BA residence. Ceiling fans. MLS#A3942113 5BR home w/mesmerizing bay and downtown views! MLS#A3915393 waterfront condo. Community swimming pool and tennis. MLS#A3940765 The Beach Residences $2,495,000 Judy Kepecz-Hays, 941-924-9000 Windward Bay $399,000 Linda Fara, 941-924-9000 Delightful 2BR/2BA wa- Stoneybrook $318,000 Charles Offer, 941-388-3966 Least expensive 3-car 3BR/3BA views the gulf and white sandy beaches in luxury from your terrace. terfront condo. Community swimming pool and tennis. MLS#A3941395 garage on Palmer Ranch! Nice water view, comm pool. MLS#A3941786 MLS#A3906165 Longboat Key $379,500 Sandy Endres, 941-924-9000 Don’t miss this bright Sarasota $229,000 Lynn A. Luken, 941-388-3966 2BR/2BA each duplex unit.

Bird Key $1,495,000 Lynne Koy, 941-924-9000 Contemporary 5BR/4.5BA & lovely furnished, remodeled, large 2BR/2BA condo. MLS#A3942130 Great condition, neat & clean, new tile roof. MLS#A3935153 home w/bay views. Guest suite w/kitchen & laundry. MLS#A3937371 Fairway Bay $356,000 Linda Fara, 941-924-9000 Sample the comforts in Broadway Promenade $180,000 Martina Coppenrath, 941-924-9000 Lido Harbour South $399,500 Lynn A. Luken, 941-388-3966 Enjoy gulf views this rewarding condo on waterfront site. 2 baths. MLS#A3940548 Things are so handy in this pleasing condo. Community swimming pool. and gorgeous sunsets from this delightful 2BR/2BA condo. MLS#A3939763 Seaplace II $355,000 Carolyn Donnelly, 941-924-9000 Beautiful updated MLS#A3936088 Lido Key $324,900 Teresa Simmons, 941-924-9000 Large & rarely available; 2BR/2BA condo in beachfront complex, 2 pools, tennis. MLS#A3941465 turnkey furnished; 1BR w/southern gulf views. MLS#A3940819 Sarasota $154,900 Martina Coppenrath, 941-924-9000 Find a real haven in Islander Club $354,900 Patrick DiPinto, 941-924-9000 Live at the beach! this appealing 4BR/2BA residence. Central heat/air. MLS#A3941442 Longboat Key 2BR/2BA. 38’ open balcony w/views of bay & golf course. MLS#A3940658

Manatee

Country Club Shores $3,700,000 Judy Kepecz-Hays, 941-924-9000 New Sunrise Shores $349,000 Bruce Myer, 941-924-9000 Bay front 2BR/2BA+, 3BR/4+BA waterfront residence. Wheelchair access. Community tennis. renovated & enclosed terrace. Private beach access! MLS#A3915201 Cypress Creek Ests $729,000 Kathy Hoonhout, 941-388-3966 Discover MLS#A3941847 Seaplace $339,000 Roger Pettingell, 941-924-9000 Updated gulf front get- your dreams in this tile-roofed 5BR/5+BA residence. Hot tub. MLS#A3941888 Longboat Key $3,200,000 Judy Kepecz-Hays, 941-924-9000 Prime bayfront away with direct greenbelt & gulf and sunset views. MLS#A3933359 Mill Creek $259,900 Jeff Mann, 941-388-3966 Match your dreams to this homesite! 18,000 + sf with 309ft wtr front with bch access. MLS#A3930758 Fairway Bay $329,000 Bruce Myer, 941-924-9000 Crisp, clean, 2BR/2BA welcoming 3BR/3BA home. 3-car garage. MLS#A3942629 condo w/tile floor & contemporary furnishings.

MLS#A3936418 Water Club $1,499,000 Roger Pettingell, 941-924-9000 Gift yourself with gracious styling in this exhilarating 3BR/4+BA condo. MLS#A3939713 Seaplace $235,000 Roger Pettingell, 941-924-9000 Lovely townhouse with Bel Mare $255,000 Team Vitale, 941-388-3966 Welcoming 2BR/2BA waterfront condo in a gated community. Elevators. MLS#A3942024 Grand Bay $1,395,000 Louis Wery, 941-924-9000 Visualize perfection in this loft bedroom & sleeper sofas to accomodate guests. MLS#A3910355 exhilarating 3BR/3+BA condo. Elevators. MLS#A3941438

Mainland Sarasota

Siesta Key

Country Club Shores $849,000 Carolyn Donnelly, 941-924-9000 3BR home one lot from bay on deep sailboat water, pool and bay view. MLS#A3938996 La Bellasara $5,950,000 Barbara Ackerman, 941-924-9000 Premier pent- Sarasota $679,000 Babette Paige, 941-388-3966 Great income opportunity! house w/bay, marina & city skyline views. 3,370 SF, 3BR/4.5BA. MLS#A3938705 Beautifully maintained Duplex. Room for a pool. MLS#A3941972 Sanctuary III $799,900 Barbara Ackerman, 941-924-9000 3BR/2.5BA condo w/renovated kitchen, floor to ceiling windows & balcony. MLS#A3926119

La Bellasara $2,395,000 Barbara Ackerman, 941-924-9000 Stunning views, St. Armand’s Key 6th flr, 3BR + den/4th BR, his & her baths. Dock available. MLS#A3927646 Players Club I $649,000 Lynne Koy, 941-924-9000 Explore the many charms of this impressive 2BR/2BA waterfront condo. MLS#A3942592 Coral Cove $1,880,000 Louis Wery, 941-924-9000 Enjoy the charm of this Lido Beach $1,399,000 Patrick DiPinto, 941-924-9000 Location! Estate size 4BR/4BA with endless southern views of the bay. MLS#A3938814 waterfront double lot. Dock and lift. MLS#A3935851 Harbor Oaks $599,000 Maggie Hicks, 941-924-9000 Tile-roofed 3BR/3+BA condo in a gated community. Cathedral ceilings. MLS#A3939443

Sapphire Shores $1,490,000 David Jennings, 941-388-3966 Immerse yourVenice/Osprey/Nokomis self in luxury in this tile-roofed, fenced 4BR/3BA residence. MLS#A3941650 Atrium Fairway Bay $499,000 Gabe/Charles Buky, 941-924-9000 Opportunity knocks! Best value. 3BR bay views updtd & furn w/beach access. Broadway Promenade $499,900 Martina Coppenrath, 941-924-9000 Taste Meridian $325,000 Selina Auvil, 941-388-3966 Welcome the good life in this MLS#A3939549 reigns in this full bay view 2BR/2BA condo. Community swimming pool. tile-roofed 3BR/3BA condo. Gated community. MLS#A3941719 MLS#A3939731 Fairway Bay $499,000 Bruce Myer, 941-924-9000 Bay and mangrove views Rivendell $309,900 Patrick DiPinto, 941-924-9000 Visualize yourself in this from this 3BR/3BA two story condo w/oversized garage MLS#A3942324 Condo On The Bay $455,000 Lynne Koy, 941-924-9000 Create a warm retile-roofed 3BR/2BA home. Two-car garage. MLS#A3941791 treat in this rewarding condo in a gated community. Dock. MLS#A3942568 Longboat Harbour Towers $495,000 Roger Pettingell, 941-924-9000 Gulf front, 2BR/2BA residence that’s been decorator designed & furnished. Ashley Trace $449,000 Bob Itts, 941-388-3966 Explore the many charms of Town Center $199,900 Pablo Arthur, 941-924-9000 Hurry to obtain this this welcoming 3BR/2BA home. Gated community. MLS#A3941865 fenced 3BR/2BA home. Central H/A, ceiling fans. MLS#A3942360 MLS#A3931993

Residential ❙ Commercial ❙ Mortgage ❙ Rentals ❙ Corporate Relocation ❙ Closing Services * Wall Street Journal survey ranked Coldwell Banker #1 among all measured Realtors® as the company they would consider using for future real estate transactions.

2009 Residential Real Estate Survey; Wall Street Journal Marketing/Beta Research Corp. ©2011 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned And Operated By NRT LLC.

56555

FLORIDAMOVES.COM

22A YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT Observer

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

games | deal us in By Donna Swan | Contributing Writer

BRIDGE HAND

Making the contract is an accomplishment Bunny Roland, from Traverse City, Mich., and her partner were the only pair to bid and make a contract of four spades. Roland’s decision was to simply overcall with the South hand.

She had enough points for a takeout double but did not want to have to introduce such a weak spade suit later in the auction. She was able to show her strength with a re-opening double, and the spade game was reached.

West led the queen of hearts; Roland returned the suit and won with her ace. West took the Jack and shift-

ed to the seven of diamonds. Roland covered with the dummy’s 10 and captured East’s queen with the ace.

Faced with the prospect of losing two diamond tricks, she managed to avoid that fate with an end-play.

Displaying technique of which any duplicate player would be proud, she cashed the ace-king of clubs and ruffed a club. She then ruffed the dummy’s last heart to complete a strip of clubs and hearts. She now made a key play of leading a trump to the 10.

East won the ace and was down to

Dealer: East

North

nothing but red cards. If he played a heart, Roland would discard a diamond from her hand and ruff in the dummy. Dummy’s preserved king of spades would prevent West from scoring a trick with his Jack. If East returned a diamond, Roland would take the fulfilling trick with the dummy’s Jack.

♠ K 10 6 3 2 ♥842 West ♦ J 10 3 East ♣94 ♠ J9 ♠A ♥ QJ3 ♥ K 10 9 7 6 7 6 5 ♦ ♦ KQ98 ♣ Q 10 8 7 3 South ♣ J 6 5 ♠ Q8754 ♥ A5 ♦ A42 ♣ AK2

Donna Swan is a resident of Longboat Key, an ardent bridge player and an American Contract Bridge League certified director who plays “for the fun of it.”

Bidding: East 1♥ Pass 3♥ Pass

IT’S READ EVERYWHERE The Observer’s “It’s Read Everywhere” photo contest is now online at YourObserver.com. Visit our website, YourObserver. com, to upload your photo submissions from now until Oct. 15; photos submitted directly to the paper will automatically be uploaded to our website. Online voting takes place from Nov. 1 to Nov. 7. Winners will be announced in the Nov. 10 issue of the Longboat Observer. Email your entries to nschwartz@ yourobserver.com or mail them to the Longboat Observer, 5570 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, Fla., 34228.

Vulnerable: Both

South 1♠ Double 3♠ Pass

observerSudoku Edited by The Mepham Group

Solve the puzzle by placing the numbers 1 through 9 in each row, column and box. See answers on page 24A.

5360 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Suite 101, Longboat Key

Call 941-383-5577 or visit www.wagnerrealty.com

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| City Editor

n. the ion is broke The tradityears in a row, isFor five Key Town Commsemost Longboat selected the -person sion has er of its seven town’s nior memb become the to group 21 March mayor. its Monday, comBut at meeting, the Jim statutoryvoted 5-2 to selectLongr of photo mayo mission Courtesy issioner as the Brown McCalden over Comm ann is Siekm and Sarah boat Key Alexander Siekmann.and final year Robert term uins) wille Brown in his thirdissioner, while as a + VIP(eng rd Mot d term as a comm will ng his secon march towa Aquarium beginenteri e is er. in and Mote Marin tie guests commission blackwas sworn at the blackhost some Once he his new seat ber: four exa ning in Novemns as part of be after takingthe dais, Brown will of footed penguiexhibit that center his gratitude. fellimited-time uin Island.” thank mytheir pressed like to called “Pengation of this black“I would issioners for “I will has a In anticip low commBrown said. bunch, Mote name. be as and-white t who needs a hopefully lost support,” Dora Walters and and just masco best new do my the mayor we e Spoll).” rg/penguinisl left, Brown, .

Visit mote.o 15 to vote. good as Mayor Georg Youngof service Mayor Jim before April appointed de for his years (outgoingissioner Phillip off y, newly s .

Comm g Monda town’s gratitu g sign isn’t ated Brown Commisry meetin expresses the it sells, + Friedber s statuto er nomin, Younger, that novel Comwhenever h, that he a plaque Commission’ Brown Brenner, n and resihis wife on her first Key , thoug Key TownGeorge Spoll with David a Larso Longboat Longboat sioner disappointed mayor.

Lynn to be Former ia Friedberg heldand ct 1 Com- At the ts outgoing Mayor missioner -in Distri irked Siek- wasn’ t votedhave been nice . e dent Patric an voted presen book signing ay, to declin er terms mayoral vote Longboat would “It newly swornJack Dunc tunity Saturd Brenn the The he oppor lecture told at missioner . nominated er r, and , who meeting given the March 19, 1, in Larson vice mayothe po- mann ver after the ointed.”

Commission for Brown 8A ann and Bookstore for nominated as the town’s voted to on his Obser disapp Land’s End PAGE ly / Siekm R who for was “clear el, — voted whose Sarasota, move Brenner a 7-0 vote else was was SEE MAYO Hal Lenob as mayor, novel, by Siekmann, sale and will with one her first for e.” h sition ay — after no west Siekmann house is c North “21 Aldgatis brief speec birthd Siekmann. r and to the Pacifi made a ation and The novel n, nominated. new mayo ear Lenobel his nomin to honor set in Londo The town’s serve one-y during Friedberg on, to vice mayor will commission ny during the positi Germa wars. urged with the France andbetween world Siekmann the period film based on the h no avail.

A feature development throug in novel is Pictures Ltd., in go to Progress For information, om.

England. ate.blogspot.c ns http://21aldg ect mea 2A

You can have The Longboat Observer delivered right to your mailbox no matter what your zip or postal code.

Just complete the form below and send it, fax it or drop it off:

TOWN /

PAGE

vote validates error in Town ad

INDEX

.........11B ...................... ........12C Black Tie ...................... .......11C Classifieds ......................

C Crossword ..................10 In........... ........... 2C Deal Us Estate...........

Key Real ...............7A the Editor ...6A Letters to ...................... 1C Opinion ........... .....................1 ...........

Weather

h proj um. million beac bond referend town’s $16 h-project s Feb. 14. r for the ate the beac week of the error mean ing the valid town, rtising erro beach bond in daily For the million the town An adve judge must now referendum in the the $16 beach bond publications election, that be issued until election or a county er

Dora Walters

to newspaper prior to the m. State can’t holds anoth | City Editor by a counbe used week either Schultheis proble validated that will eroded north has fourth created the a bond refer- gets the vote the Large pipes on oat Key which the error funnel sand onto were placed 18. in the ates that of Longb funds island advertised to the ty judge. er discovered , March The town $16 million in for a law mand end of the Island Friday must be Grang prior to ved no access voters appro due to a endumand fifth weeksndum should Beer Can third the PAGE 8A that Key The refere t last week, ising TION / election. published during Inbeach projec s Office advert SEE ELEC Feb. 21. been Town Clerk’ Feb. 7 and told have hed durGranger ay weeks of was only publis error.

Trish it ver Mond stead, Town Clerk oat Obseradvertised the the Longb office only that her

By Kurt

Diversions No. 34 Vol. 33, ns Three sectio server.com www.YourOb

ARTS | EN

T E R TA I N M

NEWS MUSE

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by Heidi Kurpiela

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The Observer

WWW.yo

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| A&E Editor

INSIDE

FILM: A preview of the Film Festival / 7B Sarasota

BLACK TIE thE SocIAL

oBSErvEr

with upgrades. 2BR/1 & ½ BA, marina and small waterfront park. Beaches, shopping & dining are just 2 minutes away! Recreation center with shuffleboard. Easy showing. Debra Ibasfalean $110,000 #M5820882

BUILDABLE LOT, NORTH LONGBOAT KEY

100’ x 100’ on saltwater canal, with concrete seawall, just a block to the beach. Call for details. Only $237,511 Jerry Cunningham #A3939126

“She is all of the things I’d hoped a real estate agent would be: intelligent, expert, courteous, patient, reassuring and available.

To put it bluntly, she is the consummate professional.”

the longboat observer, 5570 gulf of Mexico Drive, P.o. box 8100, longboat Key, Fl 34228.

NDUM REFERE BEACh

See OUR

MINT CONDITION DOUBLE WIDE

Annette Rogers has ranked among Greater Sarasota’s top-producing Realtors for 37 years.

Stay connected to your Longboat Key neighbors and neighborhood.

Fax: 941.383.7193 Phone: 941.383.5509 or 941.366.3468

CONRAD BEACH

Incredible opportunity to own 2 adjoining lots west of Gulf of Mexico Drive. Conrad Beach boasts timeless architecture, com. pool & clubhouse.

Purchase separately or w/ M5815731 Peter Uliano $260,000 #M5815734

Legendary Service.

Remarkable Results.

Contact Annette today.

3BR/2BA VILLA UPDATED & FURNISHED

Date of request ______________________________________________ subscription start date________________________________________

glass enclosed lanai, washer/ dryer, pools, tennis, clubhouse, fitness room, beach access.

Owner financing available & will pay main. fee until end of year. Dorothy Cook $275,000 #A3913998

name ______________________________________________________ address______________________________________________________ City _______________________________state (Province)___________ Zip/ Postal Code_______Country_____________Phone ____________ Credit card__________________________sec Code ________________

cAMErA rEAD y: the out-of-Door emy’s Banyan Ball Acad/ 11B covEr: Senior

Friendship centers Madcap Evening ’ “A at the circus” / 9B

Posh paperboy

Artist Eric Cross grabbed local headlin to this weeken d’s ‘iconcept’ fashion es for his tea-length contrib ution show

E

2B

from this 2BR/2BA turnkey furnished condo. Updated kitchen, W/D, newer air, 2 pools, 2 tennis courts, 2 marinas, beach access, only $12 a month for boat slip. Dorothy Cook $275,000 #A3939881

2011 subsCriPtion rates Andi Munzer and Jan Feidelman

1 Year (52 weeks) 6 Months (26 weeks) 3 Months (13 weeks) You. Your Neighbors. Your Neighborhood.

First Class $150

standard Mail $75

Canada

europe

$185

$395

$100

$50

$95

$200

$50

$30

$45

$100

PRISTINE WATERFRONT

941.383.7591 (office) 941.284.7373 (mobile) annetterogers@michaelsaunders.com

Michael Saunders & Company Licensed Real Estate Broker

®

53677

NUED ON PAGE

_________________ Check # ____________________Cash: ___________________

Heidi Kurpiela

pictured here

at Art Center ric Cross is Sarasota. a pretty dapper dresser for a dumpster diver. trash bins dressed in a flashy blue button-down It’s hard to picture shirt, pinstrip 51-year-old with a and shiny e pants 30 black shoes creating window years experience on this — particular Tuesda his outfit displays for luxury clothing retailer y.

But it’s where s rooting throug h his best materia he says he unearths ls.

CROSS CONTI

ENJOY THE WATER VIEWS

exp Date_____________________billing zip code

54930

“I’ve always been fascinated with the packing by paper design creating something three-dim he created for ensional from this year’s “iconcept a bolt of fabric,” ” show. says Eric Cross,

56567

© Tribune Media Services

VIETNAM. Key resident Janet Andres catches a ride in Hue, Vietnam, the old imperial capital. Andres is accompanied by her tour guide, Ha. Her scooter is one of many millions in Vietnam, because they are the main form of transportation in the country.

It’s Still

NS: DIVERSIO POSH BOY PAPER E 1B |

North Pass 2♠ 4♠

Opening Lead: Q ♥

the longboat observer subscribe to your neighborhood newspaper

NEWS OFFICIAL COUNT us

West 2♥ Pass Pass Pass

3BR/2BA overlooking Palma Sola Bay. Deeded boat slip. Retreat to paradise.

Luscious landscaping, 2 minutes to beaches on Anna Maria Island. Fish heaven! Debra Ibasfalean #M5820999 $550,000

LONGBOAT Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

Sunrise/sunset

RAINFALL Mon., April 25 Tues., April 26 Wed., April 27 Thurs., April 28 Fri., April 29 Sat., April 30 Sun., May 1

North 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.06 0.00 0.00

Mid 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.04 0.00 0.00

Month to date: 2011 0.00 in Year-to-date:

South 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.00 0.00 0.00

2010 0.60 in.

2011 2010 13.24 in. 10.62 in.

Sunrise

Sunset

Thurs., May 5

6:49

8:06

Fri., May 6

6:48

8:06

Sat., May 7

6:48

8:07

Sun., May 8

6:47

8:07

Mon., May 9

6:46

8:08

Tues., May 10

6:45

8:09

Wed., May 11

6:45

8:09

23A

WEEKLY WINNEr: SUNSET SWOOP

TemperatureS Temps.

High Low 86.5 71.5 90 73.5 89 75.5 85 72 93 68 92 72 90 68

Tues., April 26 Wed., April 27 Thurs., April 28 Fri., April 29 Sat., April 30 Sun., May 1 Mon., May 2

Record Temps.

High Low 93 (1958) 47 (1983) 90 (2011) 45 (1926) 91 (1971) 46 (1997) 92 (1974) 45 (1977) 93 (2011) 46 (1916) 95 (1996) 51 (1998) 94 (1991) 51 (1998)

Average Gulf water temperature: 80.5 Ed Schmith submitted this sunset photo, taken on the south end of the Key.

TIDE CHART

Highs

MOON PHASES

Lows

Thurs., May 5

3:18a

12:58p

7:00a 9:36p

Fri., May 6

4:08a

1:37p

7:24p 10:23p

Sat., May 7

5:11a

2:21p

7:55p 11:16p

Sun., May 8

3:14a

—

Mon., May 9

7:22a

4:18p

12:12a 10:17a

Tues., May 10

8:00a

5:41a

1:09a 12:23p

Wed., May 11

8:30a

7:21p

2:04a 2:14p

—

May 17 Full

Visit YourObserver.com to click on our interactive weather button, which features current weather conditions, weather radar and a five-day forecast.

May 24 Last

June 1 New

52544

—

May 10 First

PHOTO CONTEST: Enter your local sunset, sunrise or weather-related photos for The Observer’s weather photo contest, sponsored by Cool Today. Please include where you took the photo when submitting photos, as well as your mailing address. Each week’s winner will receive a $50 restaurant gift card. Please send your photos to the Longboat Observer, 5570 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, Fla., 34228, or email them to nschwartz@yourobserver.com.

T H E O B S E R V E R C R O S S WO R D Edited by Timothy E. Parker

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SAY wHAT? by Carl Cranby ACROSS 1 Reach, finally 8 Expressions in toothpaste ads 14 1917 revolution casualty 18 Delta or Southwest 19 Kind of warfare 21 Sicilian volcano 22 Natural disaster aftermath 24 Bends under weight 25 Organ with a drum inside 26 Asian nurse 27 Tribe known for kachina dolls 28 Walker’s increment 29 Total flop 32 Mamas’ mamas 34 It’s bigger than a quiz 36 Bridge guru Culbertson 37 A lot of junk mail 38 Puppy sound 40 Time out at day care 42 Began the card game 44 Restaurant offering 46 Ballroom dance move 48 Event locale 50 Abrasive board material 52 Take notice of 53 Top of the head 55 Use plastic or cash 57 Cafeteria fight weapon 59 Cheerleader’s word 62 Belgrade resident 64 Wanted poster initials 65 Shopper’s destination 66 Spine-tingling 69 Thoroughly dislikes 71 Exclamation for Holmes 73 Drinking spot 74 Witch’s curse 75 Conference room gadgets

79 Tide type 80 Troublemaking toddler 81 Shocking swimmer 82 Big name in copiers 83 How the innocent may be led 85 Emmy winner Roberts 87 Schlep 90 Actress Spelling 91 Coloring agent 92 Fifty-fifty 93 ___ New Guinea 95 Loosen, as a knot 97 Grew older 101 Word with “poly” 103 Walk like a rooster 105 W. Ger. was in it 107 Cousin of a mandolin 108 Salve targets 110 Transgression of divine law 111 Decay 113 U.K. military fliers 114 ___-conceived 116 Worship from ___ 118 The end of ___ (legend’s retirement) 122 Hearty and sturdy 124 Canaanite deity 126 Skin-soothing stuff 128 Stationery store stock (Abbr.)

129 Lowest sudoku digit 130 White-tailed bird of prey 131 Some classic tennis shoes 137 Old Roman welcomes 138 Undertaking 139 Transferee, in law 140 The “M” in E=MC2 141 Certain postal worker or gizmo 142 Weight added for stability dOwn 1 ___ Claire, Wisc.

2 Tiny louse 3 ”___ & the Women”

(2000 Richard Gere 66 Reprimand mildly film) 67 Do away with 4 ”___ Gold” (1997 68 They’re used by Fonda film) fast-moving vehicles 5 Buccaneer’s crime 70 Word with 6 Futuristic automaton “Brussels” or 7 Driver’s gadget “bean” 8 Sarandon of 72 Cabbage unit Hollywood 76 The legendary 9 Type of gas Fitzgerald 10 401(k) kin 77 ”Beep beep” maker 11 Word meaning 78 Zinc ___ “stone” 84 Colorful duck 12 T.S. of literature 86 Excited about 13 Slanted, as a hill 88 FedEx rival 14 Hardy heroine 89 Courage, 15 Certain ticket issuer colloquially 16 Messenger of God 93 Prologue 17 Hoarse 94 Opera solo 19 Vasco da ___, 96 ”__ the ramparts ...”

Portuguese explorer 98 Spiritual advisor 20 Source of a 99 Some flight data licoricelike flavoring 100 Agile 23 U-Haul rental 102 Period in history 29 Celeb’s accomplishment 104 Intimidate 30 Time of danger for 106 Toyota model Caesar 109 Stylish businesses?

31 ”Without delay”

acronym 33 ___ serif (font choice) 35 Scottish headwear 39 One of Gladys Knight’s singers 41 Insect in its cocoon 43 Southpaw’s preferred side 45 Stringed instrument of yore 47 Turkish title, once 48 Triangle corner 49 ”___! A mouse!”

51 West African ethnic group 54 Ship deck wood 56 Palindromic Indian bread 58 Pat Boone’s singing daughter 60 Recesses at church 61 Promote extravagantly 63 French cap 65 Smart-mouthed

112 Commonly removed throat tissue 114 Letter-shaped support 115 Stage before 41-Down 117 Repeated-theme composition 119 ”Entry of Christ Into Brussels” painter James 120 Winnebago enthusiast, for short 1 21 Stubborn ___ mule 123 ___ palm (Asian tree) 125 Subtracting 127 ”... happily ___ after” 132 Dog-___-dog world 133 Experiment site 134 Santa ___, Calif.

135 Thing, in legalese 136 ”I hate to break up a ___”

Last weeks Cryptograms 1. “First the good news,” announced the doctor, in a very animated fashion. “You are going to have a new disease named after you!”

2. I never was the plucky, overstressed type. My motto has always been: “Hard work never killed anyone, but why take the chance?”

Thursday, May 5, 2011 Items Under $200 For Sale

Furnishings

Help Wanted

ADVERTISE YOUR merchandise with the total value of $200 or less in this section for FREE! Limit 1 ad per month, 15 words or less. Price must be included. No commercial advertising. Ad runs 2 consecutive weeks.

Email ad to: classified@yourobserver.com or online at: www.yourobserver.com/classifieds

NOW BUYING USED FURNITURE...

SALES POSITION. P/T. Must be available evenings & weekends. Located on Anna Maria Island. Retirees Welcome.

727-244-5906.

WANTED: La-Z-Boy Lexington Chremecraft Drexel

FREE CATS: (2) beautiful Burmese to a loving home. Call 387-7136 for consideration.

Leather Ethan Allen Wicker Thomasville

Commercial Property For Sale LBK GAS Station Site. Corner Gulf of Mexico Dr. & Broadway. Various commercial uses. $850,000 Longview Realty, 941-383-6112. www.longviewrealty.com

Call for Fast Free Bid

745-2596 Manatee Furniture

Antiques/Collectibles

3015 1st St. (Hwy US41) Bradenton Buying & Selling Quality Used Furniture Since 1987

ANTIQUE AND ART FAIR WHITNEY PLAZA SAT. & SUN., 9A.M.-3P.M. 6828 GULF OF MEXICO DR. LONGBOAT KEY FOR INFO: CALL STEFF’S STUFF ANTIQUES 941-383-1901

Appliances KITCHEN: RANGE, dishwasher, fridge, 4 years old @$150. Wicker twin headboards, chest: $150. 941-387-3060 after 5/2.

Autos Wanted AUTOS WANTED! Let me take the hassle out of selling your car. Cash offered today!

Call Mike, 941-713-2277.

Boat Slips For Rent/Sale 32FT. BOAT slip for rent, Boat House of LBK, 3rd level, dry. Call 718-974-5269 or 718-979-8017.

BOAT SLIP. High and dry, indoor, for sale or lease. Southend of LBK at the Boathouse.

Owner financing available. For info call 941-544-5597.

Boats

General Merchandise THRIFT SHOP: LORD’S WAREHOUSE. Hours: Mon., Weds., & Sat., 9a.m. to 1p.m.

Non-profit. Clothes, jewelry, furniture, other items. 6140 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

941-383-4738.

Storage STORAGE FACILITY Boat/ RV/ Trailer.

Secure facility, low monthly rentals, Clark Rd area. 941-809-3660, 941-809-3662

Help Wanted CAREGIVER/ASSISTANT FOR Longboat lady, live-in 2 or 3 days per week. Nutritional cooking from scratch, experienced in personal care, light housekeeping, effective communicator for daily reporting. We seek intelligent and educated, patient individual with flexible time schedule. Basic computer skills, clean driving record, non-smoking, references in this field essential. $12 per hour on W2; payroll taxes paid by employer.

941-780-4284 or avanga42@aol.com JEWELRY SALES- Part Time Position.

Queens' Wreath Jewels at The Met on St. Armands Circle hiring part time sales help.

Call for interview 941-388-9800 MOVING TO FLORIDA need live in help for disabled lady. Must have nursing skills. Call collect 913-856-4444.

OO Boats Are Selling Very Well. 16’ center consoles to 32’ Sea Rays. Island resident 15 yrs. - many references. Business on a handshake. Let’s talk about selling your boat.

Dave, 941-228-3489.

Condos For Sale

Condos/Apts. For Rent 2BR FURNISHED apartment, Twin Shores, LBK. 55+ community. 6/mo. minimum. $750/mo. +utilities. 941-388-7284, 941-3830044.

BEACH-TO-BAY CONDO at Bayport BTC. First floor, end unit. Newly decorated 2 bed/2 bath. Free local phone, cable and wireless Internet. Pictures and details: www.bayportbtc.com. Contact owner at 615-376-9448 FIRST LIDO 1900 Ben Franklin. Large 1BR/2BA condo. Gulf view from all windows, No obstruction. Rent for 6 months or longer. $1500. 513-834-1410.

LBK 2BR/2BA Condo, Gulf View. 1st floor, corner unit beach to bay. Immaculate & Bright. Available May-Dec, 3 month minimum. Contact 914-610-5692 (NY) LONGBOAT HARBOR 2011-2012 Season.

2BR/2BA, bay view, private beach, second floor. Non-smoking. 3/mo. min. No pets.

410-984-4435, andytanchel@verizon.net STUDIO APARTMENT for rent at Lerfald Landings on a canal across from Whitney Beach. Water included. $700 month.

1 year lease required. (941) 565-1401, (941) 792-0411.

Condos For Sale

BY OWNER. Inn On The Beach, LBK. Lowest priced Club Suite. 708-267-6704.

955-4888

MOUNTAIN VACATION in North Carolina.

Spacious condo near Cashiers - Highlands, NC. Sleeps 6. Golf, tennis, family activities.

Available July 15-22, 22-29, July 29-Aug. 5. $800/ week. 850-456-7720.

Homes For Sale DIRECT GULFFRONT 4BR/4.5BA +den, 3 car garage, pool/ spa, elevator, security.

Immaculate 2005 Mediterranean style architecture with breathtaking Gulf views.

5,146 sq.ft. under roof on N. Anna Maria, 12106 Gulf Drive. $3,400,000 furnished.

Contact Owner/ Broker, 941-920-1699.

O

Boats 4 Easy Ways To Place your Classified ad

Say You Saw it in Call 941-955-4888

This week’s crossword answers THE OBSERVER LP # 56732

Go online 24/7 to place your ad in The Observer Classifieds

THE OBSERVER LP # 56733

www.yourobserver.com Your source for local Classifieds

Ready When You Are – Classified Ads, The Way to Sell

LV1241

THE OBSERVER LP # 56736

Fractionals

classified@yourobserver.com DIDEmail WE get your attention? You bet we did!

Make your ad stand out with COLOR. Only in at The Observer Classifieds.

Online Callwww.yourobserver.com/classifieds 941-955-4888 to advertise.

FAST RESULTS.

Observer Classifieds

NEW TO MARKET! Waterfront 3/2/2 condo on private Island. Discover the other Island, Tidy Island in Sarasota Bay. Views of lake, bay & preserve. Former model, sold furnished! $249,900. Katharine Pepper, RoseBay Real Estate 941-792-9459.

Fax 941-362-4808

SayBIG YouTYPE. SawEASY it READ. in

The

DOWNTOWN SARASOTA BAYFRONT GULF VIEWS. DOUBLE UNIT - REGENCY HOUSE - 435 GULFSTREAM AVE. 3330+ sq.ft. living area with split 2-3BR/3BA. Totally remodeled, parquet floors, granite kitchen, walk-in closets, office/den with built-ins. Hurricane shutters, a 180 degree view of the keys and the Gulf. A must see unit. Steps to downtown activities and restaurants. RON STAHL REALTY, 941-374-1671.

LONGBOAT Observer

Lots/Acreage For Sale

Vacation/Seasonal Rentals CASA DEL MAR BEACH RESORT WEEKLY RENTALS GULF FRONT/ GULF VIEW

GULF FRONT LAND FOR S ALE. • +/-33,402 SF • 6855 Gulf of Mexico Drive • Sealed Bid Auction • Bids due 5/19/11 • Call Kim Rogers (941) 341-9710 ext.302

Out-of-State Property

Reservations: 941-383-5549 Visa/ MC Fax: 941-383-7925 “Take our video tour at” www.casadelmar.net Office Open 7 Days, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

4621 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key 34228

WASHER/ DRYER IN EVERY UNIT BEAUTIFUL KITCHENS LARGE HEATED POOL GULFSIDE FREE Wireless High Speed Internet

“Where People Return Year After Year” PRIME NORTH CAROLINA MOUNTAIN PROPERTIES At BARGAIN PRICES

“INTENTIONALLY BETTER”

Classifieds 25A

Vacation/Seasonal Rentals

Vacation/Seasonal Rentals

LIDO BEACH CONDOMINIUMS Weekly - Monthly - Seasonal

Resort Properties, Inc. Licensed Real Estate Broker 941-388-3921 - 888-388-3921 941-650-1857 Visit us at: resortproperties.pro

LIDO BEACH Vacation paradise. 1 & 2 bedroom condos overlooking beautiful Lido Beach. Weekly rates. Lido Dorset.

Rental condo. 1-800-734-3370.

LONGBOAT KEY. Gulf front, heated pool on beach, 1BR/1BA condo, full kitchen, dining, sleeps 4, king pillowtop. 617-328-7145.

LONGBOAT KEY: SUNSET BEACH condo: beachfront, direct Gulf, 3BR/2BA, large balcony, gated community, heated pool.

Available January 1 - April 30. By owner, 941-383-6142.

LONGBOAT: DIRECT Beachfront condo, 2BR/2BA. Rental $3800 +tax/mo. Jan, Feb, or March. 727-501-3675.

 Breathtaking views  Mild Summers

laurelridgegolf.com

Contact: Sherell Johnson, Jr.

sherellwj@aol.com 1-800-433-7274 Real Estate Wanted LUXURY ANNUAL RENTALS WANTED for waiting clients. Furnished or unfurnished.

941-356-5610 or 941-358-7401

CONDO & BOAT SLIP RENTALS HARBOUR VILLA CLUB 615 Dream Island Rd. Longboat Key, FL 34228 941-383-9544 Fax: 941-383-8028 www.harbourvillaclub.com

Room For Rent SHARE FURNISHED Bayfront bungalow condo with senior. Now available: 2BR/2BA, $650/mo. +security deposit includes everything. Active senior community LBK. 941-809-8770, Ronnie.

Vacation/Seasonal Rentals 392 FIREHOUSE LANE, LBK. Newer upscale & stylish Gulfside home. Steps to beach & pool. 2BR +loft. Annual or Seasonal. No pets. Owner/Agent, 941544-0214, www.LuxuryHomes-Condos.com A PLAYERS CLUB, LBK: luxury waterfront penthouse, 3BR/3.5BA, 8 rooms, Har-Tru tennis courts. 3 month minimum. $7500 total for June, July & August. 941-400-8547.

For pictures: dterry285@aol.com BEACHPLACE 3BR, UPDATED, TASTEFULLY DECORATED. GULF & BAY VIEWS. AVAILABLE IN SEASON & ANNUAL CALL CYNTHIA 407-492-5749 BEACHPLACE GULF FRONT CONDO Beautiful 2 bedroom 2 bath. New kitchen and new bathrooms. Tasteful tropical decor with tile floors. Pool and gym. HD flat screen TV's and free internet and cable.

Available 12/11- 4/12. Prefer 4months. Also available for annual rental. 917-846-4416

Exceptional Vacation Rentals Since 1994 Homes & Condominiums Studios to Six Bedrooms Beachfront, Intercoastal or Garden Excellent Service & Staff Now Offering Beach Castle Resort Nightly and Weekly

FLORIDA VACATION CONNECTION www.FLvacationconnection.com 941-387-9709 877-705-2460 FAIRWAY BAY, 2BR/2BA, furnished condo overlooking Sarasota Bay. Gated community, access to private beach club, pool & tennis on premises. Rent by the season or monthly, 2 month minimum. 412-370-8787 502-456-4361.

BOOK NOW for next season. Longboat Key, direct beachfront. 3BR/3.5BA and 1BR/1BA. 941-383-3844.

LBK- Live at Beach. Huge ranch home.

Private community, has everything! Water views. LPP02@yahoo.com, 773-842-3445

We make it easy for youCha-Ching! to place your classified ad

LBK: BAYFRONT, 2BR furnished condo, Longboat Harbour. Spectacular water views from every room, ground floor, end unit.

Covered parking, no trucks/ pets/ smoking.

Gulf/ private beach house access. Boat dock available. Avail. May 1st to December 1st. $950/mo +utilities. 734-216-6622.

Online CLEAN24/7 UP www.yourobserver.com or call 941.955.4888 In The Observer Classifieds Call 955-4888 to Advertise

Your source for local Classifieds

LONGBOAT: DIRECT Beachfront Condo, 2BR/2BA. $2000+ tax/mo. April-December.

727-501-3675.

ON THE Gulf w/pool. 1BR condo, sleeps 4.

Nicely furnished, cable, phone, full kitchen, living, dining area, W/D in building. Weekly or Monthly. May through January. $1600/mo.

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WEEKLY RENTALS. Luxurious, fully furnished 1 - 4 bedrooms. Condominiums and Cottages. Beach to Bay. On-site management. Pools, tennis, boat slips. Visit: www.FloridaRent.com for information and virtual tours. 800-333-7335, 941-383-3117.

Weekly/ Monthly/ Seasonal Rates Beachfront, Bayfront and In Between Houses or Condos Reservations 941-383-6127 Visa/ MC 800-352-0367 5360 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Suite 101 Longboat Key, FL 34228 Rental office 9a.m. - 5p.m. M-F Ask about our special rates!

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WINDWARD BAY SPECTACULAR Bay Views Throughout!

2BR/2BA remodeled condo. W/D in unit.

Steps to pool/beach access, tennis, WiFi. 941-228-5671.

Auto Transport RETIRED LONGBOAT KEY police officer & associate. Drive your car to the North and back. 941-713-1596, 941-720-0426.

SUNCOAST TRANSPORTER

PLAYERS CLUB - Direct Gulf! Upscale 2BR/3BA. Available December 1, 2011.

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SUNSET BEACH LBK. 2012 season. Large 2BR/2BA with walkdown to pool and gulf.

Large terraces. Elevator access. Parking garage. Call 863-660-2931. View at: http://web.me.com/kristenvkane

WILL DRIVE your car to Northwest USA, end of May. 941-366-2933.

TOWN HOUSE at Seaplace, steps to 2 miles private beach. Fully equipped, 2BR/2.5BA, lanai, terrace, tropical garden, pools, tennis, clubhouse, barbecue sites, sauna, Jacuzzi. Available for $3800 during season, add 10% tax. mandalka@gmx.de

SOLD! OLD

S

In The Observer Classifieds in The

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Find Treasure!

LBK BEACHPLACE Condo. Beachfront, 2BR/2BA. Elegantly furnished, heated pool, tennis court, covered parking, exercise room. Available May 1st. through Dec. 31st.

Also 2012. Non-smoking/ pets. By owner.

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LBK, CC SHORES. Gorgeous home, 3/2/2, beautifully decorated, high speed internet, cable, phone, plasma TV, heated pool, dock, screened lanai, W/D. No pets/ smoke. Walk to beach. May- October $4000 month.

Owner 941-504-1927.

LBK: TIFFANY Plaza Beachfront Condos, 1st floor, 2BR/2BA, walk out to beach.

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25A

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Classifieds 27A 27A

www.yourobserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

55995

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28A YourObserver.com

LONGBOAT Observer

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

Roger sells Bird Key

258robindrive.com Over 5,000 feet of living space surrounded by luscious gardens. $1,150,000 PROMENADE

611mourningdove.com 4BR/5BA, direct bayfront. Cook’s kitchen, travertine, wine storage. $3,445,000

SANcTUARY 545sanctuary201.com Ascot plan offers Gulf and pool views. 3BR/3.5BA plus bonus room. $1,595,000

HARbOR SEcTION

lONGbOAT HARbOUR TOWERS longboatharbourtowers102.com

▲ promenade402.com Southern corner, 3BR/3BA, turnkey furnished and views of the Gulf, bay and city. $899,000 l’AMbIANcE 415lambiancedr302.com Southern corner, 3BR/3BA Areca plan with outstanding finishes. $1,295,000

Direct Gulf, 2BR/2BA only steps to the beach, first floor walkout. $495,000 PHOENIX phoenix-602.com 3BR/3.5BA, 6th floor, incredible views of downtown, bay and harbor. $1,695,000

▲ 521harborcaydrive.com 3BR plus den, oversized pool, deep water harbor. $1,495,000 SEAPlAcE seaplacem2-411.com Direct Gulf, 2BR/2BA, 4th floor, turnkey furnished. $499,000 seaplaceg7209.com G-7 bldg with Gulf/sunset views. Updated, furnished and ready to enjoy! $339,000 seaplaceg3213.com 1BR/2BA townhouse.

Furnished. $235,000 PlAYERS clUb playersclub502C.com Beautiful, light and bright 3BR penthouse with Gulf, bay and city views. $999,000

www.rogersmarketupdate.com

Sign up to receive your customized, monthly market snapshot. You will receive, by email, the industry’s most impressive market reports, packed with up-to-the-minute MLS market and property information, plus interactive photos, maps and graphs.

GRAND bAY grandbay446.com Turnkey furnished residence with 2 parking spaces and is ready to move into! $1,499,000 grandbay261.com Antigua plan with sweeping views of bay, downtown and golf course. $1,195,000

THE lANDINGS 1469landingscircle.com Located in the heart of Sarasota, this 3BR townhome has bay views. $449,000

PIERRE pierre501.com Wraparound views, 5th floor, south side, value-priced residence. $899,000 TOWElS cOURT 1857morrillstreet.com Two-story home. 2BR/2BA upstairs apartment over your own studio. $499,000

RITZ bEAcH RESIDENcES beachresidences1007.com 10th floor, awesome views, incredible finishes, unparalleled services. $1,949,000

cOUNTRY clUb SHORES 1015bogeylane.com Built in 2003, this 4,405 ft home has beautiful, long water views and deep water boating. Steps to the beach. Gorgeous finishes. $1,699,000 511bowspritlane.com Open plan with 4BR and family room on extra large, waterfront lot. Vaulted ceilings, tiled flooring. $1,095,000 551yardarmlane.com 3BR/2BA mid-canal home in terrific condition. $649,000 512cutterln.com This charming 3BR/2BA split plan has been lovingly updated.

Southern facing, deep water, exceptional value. $599,000 552rangerlane.com Incredible value, deep water, 3BR/2BA home. $599,000

waterclub804.com 9th floor, Brighton, sunset side of building 2 with views that go on forever. $1,395,000

waterclub-208.com 3BR, wraparound floor plan with sunset views. Furnished. $999,000

▲ grandbay211.com Oversized terrace, wood floors, 3BR/3.5BA and amazing views! $1,049,000 grandbay322.com Vistas of view, Biscayne 3BR/3.5BA with wrap around terraces. $829,000 grandbay642.com Charming, bright 2BR/2BA with lovely bay views. $499,000

Roger sells Water Club.

waterclub1107.com Stunning Dover penthouse on south side. Classically furnished, 2 tandem parking.

Amazing views. $2,495,000

PENDING

waterclub204.com Delightful, B plan with 3BR and sitting room. Furnishings included. $1,499,000

waterclub404.com 4th floor, pool and garden views out to the Gulf. $1,499,000

roger c. pettingell Luxury Waterfront SpeciaLiSt

941.387.1840

SOUTH SIESTA KEY 9250blindpassroad.com 3BR plus den, contemporary home is very private! Elevator, marble flooring and elevated pool. $2,495,000

Residential Real estate d e d i c at e d t o L u x u ry e S tat e S M

www.longboatrealestate.com Visit rogersbestdeals.info if you would like a copy of my list. You may also click on this QR code with your smartphone, call our office, or send us an email.

47873

roger@longboatrealestate.com

941.586.6668

A RT S | E N T E RTA I N M E N T | S O C I E T Y | F O O D | FA S H I O N | D é C O R

Diversions YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

ARTIST STATEMENT by Heidi Kurpiela | A&E Editor

Heidi Kurpiela

“They tell stories,” Dominic Avant says of painting his wife and children. “They bring beauty to ordinary things. It moves me as a father and as an artist.”

The human touch Former Disney animator Dominic Avant explains why he now devotes his canvases to the real-life characters and scenes that fill his world.

T

hese are Dominic Avant’s favorite subjects: his sons, his wife, his backyard and the beach.

It’s a simple list that provides endless material for the artist.

With his family, it seems every moment is a painting, even the mundane ones. Or, as Avant says, “especially the mundane ones.”

It’s 4 p.m. on a Wednesday afternoon, and Avant has just returned from Ringling College of Art and Design, where for five years he’s taught animation and visual development, an extension of his former life as an animator for Walt Disney Feature Animation.

Today is, by all accounts, a mundane day.

If Avant were to paint it, the scene would include a washing machine running through its spin cycle, a little boy with damp hair escaping from his bedroom without wearing his pants. A harried wife running to retrieve the child and an artist in his garage studio tidying paints and canvases.

AVANT CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

INSIDE

EDIBLES:

Local Royal Wedding party menu / 4

Black Tie THE SOCIAL OBSERVER

FLORIDA WINEFEST & AUCTION’S BEACH FEAST PAGE 7

CAMERA READY Laughter Unlimited / 9

2 ■ Diversions

YourObserver.com ■ THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

>> COVER STORY AVANT from 1 “I sometimes feel like I’m juggling a lot,” Avant says. “Teaching full time, painting at home, raising two kids … it can be tough.

I’m just keeping my head above water, I guess.”

Not all artists are solitary creatures plagued by social phobias. Avant, a 43-yearold East County resident, has built a portfolio on his people skills, in particular his ability to capture the nuances of people’s personalities.

“I’m the opposite of a lot of artists,” Avant says. “I like camaraderie. I like being around people. I’m social. I think it makes me a better artist.”

His studio is brimming with paintings, most of which are of people, their facial expressions ranging from noble to commonplace, pensive to bewildered, bored to exuberant.

Many of the works depict his 10-year-old and 4-year-old sons.

“My boys,” he says gesturing toward a framed portrait of two kids playing in the surf at Holmes Beach. “Just seeing them get lost in a moment is inspiring. I can watch them play for two hours and walk away with 200 paintings in my head.”

Sure beats whipping out a digital camera.

Resting against another easel is a painting of Avant’s wife: she lying on a sheet under a tree in the backyard, hoisting son, Dean, then-6 months old, to his feet.

On the floor is a painting of his older son, Devin, cradling a bucket of oranges, shirtless and grinning.

“It’s the little things,” Avant says of his kids. “When I watch them pick oranges from the tree in our backyard, or when they help me in the garden, I always see them as interesting shapes, patterns and light.”

You wouldn’t know it from scanning his studio, but Avant’s career as a painter began only five years ago.

A graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, he spent nearly 10 years working at Disney’s animation studio, in Orlando, drafting characters frame-by-frame for doz-

oN THE WEB See a video of inside Dominic Avant’s studio.

AVANT’S IDOLS

John Singer Sargent

“He was the quintessential painter and he did it with a good sense of bravado and swagger.”

Joaquín Sorolla

“He has a museum dedicated to him in New York. All you have to do is take a look inside and you’ll be blown away.”

Michelangelo

“When you see how high the Sistine Chapel is in real life, you can’t believe he did what he did.”

Velázquez

“He was the first painter to paint the way we paint now.”

Heidi Kurpiela

ens of movies, including “Mulan,” “Tarzan” and “Lilo & Stitch.”

Recruited straight out of college, he was among a dying breed of animators to produce the last string of hand-drawn features to come out of the animation house before it closed in 2004.

“It was a gratifying job,” Avant says. “Especially when you saw your name roll with the credits on the big screen. You got that magical pixie-dust feeling.”

His Disney days were the realization of a childhood dream.

Like many young artists, he grew up drawing cartoon characters and dreaming of becoming a comic-book illustrator.

He was 12 years old the first time he toured the Museum of Art at the Rhode Island School of Design. He was so infatuated with the exhibits, he had to be dragged out building.

“I was one of those kids who always had the desire and ambition to be an artist,”

Avant is represented by M Gallery of Fine Art, in Charleston, S.C., and Isherwood Gallery, in Newport, R.I. Avant says. “Kids would trade their Twinkies at lunch for my superhero sketches.”

It wasn’t until one of his college instructors challenged him to move past his love affair with Spider-Man that he began to realize he had more in common with the old masters than with Marvel Comics.

“I’ve reinvented myself since Disney,” Avant says. “I feel like I’m finally in my prime. If I were a baseball player, my batting average would be ridiculous right now.”

His commission workload is on the rise thanks to a number of awards from national art competitions and prestigious organizations, including the Portrait Society of America and the Oil Painters of America.

Juggling act aside, the artist says he’s never been happier.

“I’ve evolved,” he says. “I’ve upped my game. It’s not an arrogance thing. It’s a confidence thing.”

His gaze rises to meet that of a female model he painted two weeks ago during a studio session at the Southern Atelier, in Sarasota.

The model was an African-American woman with a blue scarf tied around a heap of dreadlocks. Her gaze was fixed and intense, her lips neither pouting nor smirking.

Halfway through the session, fellow artists began to inquire whether the portrait was done. It looked complete, but, to Avant, it was still an hour away from being finished.

It was missing something.

“In my head, it wasn’t done until I captured a certain emotion,” he says. “She looked so regal sitting there in the light, and I knew I hadn’t conveyed that. It’s one of those things where you know you’ve got it when the brush leaves the canvas for the last time and there’s a big smile on your face.”

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Diversions ■ 3

■ YourObserver.com

>> COLUMN

art scene HEARD

+ Fab Lab debuts at G.WIZ

In a theater town such as Sarasota, it’s odd to be trumpeting the grand opening of a machine lab.

But this is no ordinary machine lab. This is the Faulhaber Fab Lab at G.WIZ Science Museum, paid for by Sarasota inventor and philanthropist Dr. Fritz Faulhaber, whose Clearwater company, MICROMO, is pioneering the field of miniature electric motors.

After undergoing con-

by Heidi Kurpiela | A&E Editor

+ Nobody packs a theater like Maria Show your mother you care (and that have you have great taste in local talent) by taking her this Sunday to The Glenridge Performing Arts Center for Maria Wirries’ Mother’s Day concert.

The 13-year-old singing sensation has been wowing audiences for nearly three years with her “American Idol”-worthy lungs and emotional performances with the Jacobites Pipe and Drum Band.

An East County resident, she landed her first solo show in February at Faith Lutheran Church, in Sarasota, delivering songs in Italian, Gaelic and French. Not surprisingly, the concert sold out.

According to Wirries tireless mother, Jeaneen, the singer is planning to cover Dolly Parton’s “A Coat of Many Colors,” which Parton penned as a tribute to her mother who once stitched together a coat of rags for her daughter to wear when they were

+ Sarasota dancer spreads fairy dust

Heidi Kurpiela

Maria Wirries poor and living in Tennessee.

Get your tissues ready now. For tickets, call 552-5325.

We all know Sarasota has dance fever right now (ahem, Sarasota Ballet, Carreño Dance Festival, Revelle Academy and Fuzión Dance Artists).

But what about the Sarasota dancers who are prancing off to Tampa to perform with the new Next Generation Ballet at the Patel Conservatory, in the Straz Center for the Performing Arts?

Dara Nicole, a North Sarasota resident, will perform Saturday, May 14, as

struction all season, G.WIZ’s Fab Lab, short for “fabrication laboratory,” will open to the public May 6.

“The overriding reason for my wanting to bring this to Sarasota is because America has always been the land of invention,” Faulhaber says.

“And we’ve kind of lost that, in my opinion. I’m hoping to reignite some of that Yankee ingenuity.”

HOT TICKETS VT’s ‘The Somewhat True Tale of Robin Hood’: This new

spin on an old tale runs May 12 through May 22, on the Pinkerton Stage, at the Venice Theatre. Witty, fast-paced and charming, this version of “Robin Hood” was penned

by Mary Lynn Dobson and inspired by the comedic style of Mel Brooks.

Directed by Allan Kollar, the play stars Eli Schildkraut, Michael Burke, Emma Bonham and Charlie Kollar. For tickets, call 488-1115 or visit www. venicestage.com.

a woodland fairy in Richard Cook’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”

This marks the second performance to come out of the NGB school since it opened last year in the Straz Center under former Orlando Ballet School Director Peter Stark.

Nicole, 18, who performed in “The Nutcracker” earlier this season, says she’d love to land a part one day in a Dominic Walsh ballet.

Ironically, Walsh was just in Sarasota — choreographing last week’s Sarasota Ballet season finale.

Renee McVety

Charlie Kollar as Robin Hood and Emma Bonham as Lady Marian

+ Chalk it up to creative partnerships special performance of Puccini’s “Madama Butterfly” to Burns Square.

The company will kick off its 2011 fall opera season Oct. 28, with the famous three-act opera, followed by a unique

street performance Nov. 6 presented on a 3D chalk “set” designed by Baltimore artist Michael Kirby.

According to Kirby, who approached chalk festival founder Denise Kowal with

/ /

You’ve seen “Madama Butterfly” in lights, now see her in chalk.

The Sarasota Opera has announced that it will partner with the fourth annual Sarasota Chalk Festival this fall to bring a

the idea, the project will be “unlike traditional opera sets where the best seats are center and level to the stage. This set will focus on the floor paintings and the seating will be stadium-style.”

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YourObserver.com ■ THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

>> EDIBLES by Molly Schechter | Food Editor

Sarasota celebrates royalty royally RECIPE

Highland Scotch eggs Yield: 16 appetizer servings

1 pound pork sausage 4 hard-boiled eggs, shell removed 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper 1 egg, beaten 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon flour 1 cup breadcrumbs 1 quart vegetable oil for frying HP sauce*

Photos by Molly Schechter

Host Rob Smithson

Royal Wedding Party Menu n Highland Scotch eggs with House of Parliament sauce n Buckingham Palace cucumber, cream cheese and mint tea sandwiches n Roasted Cornish hen salad sandwiches n Traditional eggs and cress sandwiches n King salmon and bibb lettuce fingers n English jellied pork pie with hot mustard n Cheese and pickled onion hedgehog n Humpty Dumpty sausage rolls n Welsh leek and true cheddar tart n Bacon, egg and tomato quiche n Irish Dublin Bay potted shrimp

n Scones with clotted cream and jam n Cupcakes n English sherry trifle n Chocolate biscuit cake n Raspberry ribbon cake n Lemon bars … and additional sweet treats

Highland Scotch eggs

1. Mix together sausage, Worcestershire sauce, flour, salt and pepper.

2. Equally divide mixture into four separate parts, and use hands to flatten out to approximately 1/4-inch thickness, then wrap around hardboiled egg until egg is completely covered. Dip each ball into beaten egg and roll in bread crumbs until coated.

3. Using deep-fat fryer, heat oil to 350 degrees. Gently lower eggs into hot oil and fry for five to eight minutes until golden brown.

4. Once eggs are cool, cut lengthways into quarters and serve with House of Parliament sauce. *HP sauce, also known as House of Parliament sauce, is a steak sauce available in the ethnic section of large supermarkets or British specialty shops such as Tastefully British (2236 Gulf Gate Drive) and Scots Corner (3452 17th St.). Hot mustard is an alternative accompaniment.

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Sarasota friends and family of Rob and Angela Smithson did not have far to go to celebrate the wedding of HRH William Arthur Philip Louis Windsor and Catherine Elizabeth Middleton.

They had only to pop on their best millinery and pop out to the Smithsons’ extraordinary lakeside home in east Central Sarasota to enjoy what the invitation billed as “pomp, balcony appearance and hearty fayre.”

The Smithsons normally share cooking duties, but he’s the Brit, and this party was his show. The menu he selected and prepared focused on British specialties but covered the entire United Kingdom. He did virtually all the cooking himself, starting with the Highland Scotch eggs. Smithson’s spread was somewhat heartier than that of the queen’s lunchtime reception for the newlyweds, which was largely cold canapés and small sweets.

The Smithson household is ever a merry one.

The couple have two sons: Robbi, 12, and Keith, who will be 11 in June. There are often guests in residence. They flew his mom, Rosemary Smithson, from England so the family could be together for the big occasion. London born and raised Vince Fraser, the digital-design guru behind the Sarasota Film Festival logos, among other things, is visiting for a month. Wedding party guests numbered about 75; see more about the party in Black Tie & Tales, page 8.

There was room for all on the Smithson’s approximately 3.5-acre property. The house was built in 2006.

“It started out to be French country,” Rob Smithson says. “Then it went Tuscan, and then British … ” The end result is an eclectic Euro-hybrid fitted out with an amazing assortment of antique furniture and accessories acquired on Rob Smithson’s frequent travels abroad. It was all decorated to the hilt to maximize everyone’s enjoyment of the royal wedding … no air miles required!

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

Diversions ■ 5

■ YourObserver.com

>> REVIEWS

Music

Film

>> Sarasota Orchestra hitches up with Hitchcock

>> ‘Of Gods and Men’

We have to remember that there’s never been a “silent” film. Even before “talkies,” there was music — usually live music — underscoring the action on the screen. So, when Lincoln Center’s John Goberman started producing the wonderfully exciting orchestral-movie presentations, which split the dialogue from the music soundtrack of blockbusters such as “Carousel” and “Oklahoma!” and gave the live music to a full symphony orchestra while the action (and conversation) took place on the screen, he proved everything old is new again, even art forms.

Most recently, Goberman returned to Sarasota with a Hitchcock program featuring “To Catch a Thief,” “Strangers on a Train,” “Dial M for Murder” and “North by Northwest,” with their superstar casts (Cary Grant, Grace Kelly, Eva Marie Saint, Ray Milland) on the Van Wezel’s screen and the superlative music (Murray, Tiomkin and Herrmann) played outstandingly by the Sarasota Orchestra, conducted consummately by Andrew Lane. Enough with the adverbs.

Suffice it to say, this stuff is fun for us and a bear-of-a-program for the orchestra to play.

“It’s harder than the Mahler we did a couple of weeks ago,” noted one musician as he staggered out of the concert hall. “This stuff is really hard.”

Of course it is. The studio musicians who played it for the original movies could stop and start, record and re-record. Live performances don’t have that luxury, and when composers such as Dmitri Tiomkin and Bernard Herrmann set the stage for the stuff of dreams on the screen, they meant business.

Fortunately, our orchestra is up to the task, and this recent foray into movie music was more spectacular than cinemascope. It’s like aural 3-D. And Goberman’s approach, which is charming and illuminating, adds still another dimension.

Yes, there were times the orchestra overpowered the film’s voice track, but, in this case, the

In 1996, a group of eight Trappist monks living in North Africa must make a fateful decision. Confronted by radical Islamic fundamentalists, should they remain (facing probable death) or simply leave? Director Xavier Beavois explores their dilemma in “Of Gods and Men” with such grace and spirituality, it left me feeling greatly humbled.

The Catholic monks live a simple, peaceful life in their Muslim community. Brother Christian (Lambert Wilson), their leader, wholeheartedly believes that they have been called upon by God to help these people. When Algerian government officials urge the monks to leave after a bloody terrorist attack, Christian refuses.

The other brothers aren’t quite as determined to stay but eventually agree to do so.

The impending doom is ever present. When Brother Luc (Michael Lonsdale) is asked to help a wounded terrorist, Christian turns them away. The fear factor intensifies after the incident, but it also serves to unite the monks in solidarity. They decide that their mission is to be “brothers to all.”

Much of “Of Gods and Men” is wordless. Beavois’ camera expertly captures and conveys his characters’ thoughts. In the most captivating scene in the film, the brothers are seated at the dinner table (a “Last Supper” comes to mind), while Tchaikovsky’s “Swan

Courtesy photo

Conductor Andrew Lane music was the star, outshining even Grant and Kelly and, most importantly, furthering the action on the screen. These are innovative, fun, elucidating programs, and we hope they continue in the future.

— June LeBell

Lake” plays on a cassette. There is no conversation while the camera pans back and forth on the brothers’ faces. Simultaneously as the music crescendos, their facial expressions fade from smiles to tears. It’s as though they are now resolved to accept their fate. And without one word spoken, the audience knows exactly what they’re thinking.

“Of Gods and Men” is basically an apolitical film. Moreover, it addresses the “why” of religious fanaticism. Why destroy the lives of people who find immense happiness in simply living their lives?

They pose no threat to anyone, let alone care about these barbaric insurgents’ philosophies. When a young girl’s head is severed from her body while on a bus because her face is not properly covered, hearing about it enrages the community. It made me wonder, is evil infectious?

“Of Gods and Men” is masterfully and beautifully executed. The inspiration permeating every frame of the film is haunting. The power of love exemplified by the monks as well as the villagers radiates such hope. But as the monks are marched away and disappear into the light at the conclusion, a quote in the film came back to me. “Men never do evil so completely and cheerfully as when they do it from religious conviction.” And, once again, my hope was shattered.

— Pam Nadon

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6 ■ Diversions

THE SOCIAL OBSERVER

Black Tie

WINEFEST Brunch and Auction Page 10

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

shrimp and stone crabs, as well as delectable food stations prepared by the Longboat Key Black Tie Editor Club. More than 37 wineries were on hand to The beaming sun, tropical breeze and crash- pour their specialties for guests.

The Florida Winefest & Auction will be ing waves added to the perfect backdrop for Florida Winefest & Auction’s Beach Feast Fri- awarding $250,000 in grants to Mothers Helpday, April 29, at Longboat Key Club and Resort. ing Mothers, Resurrection House, Children More than 225 guests checked their flip-flops First, Community Coalition on Homelessness, at the shoe valet and went barefoot for the eve- Laurel Civic Association, Just for Girls, Safe ning, which benefits children’s charities. The Place and Rape Crisis Center and Volunteer beachside dinner included an abundance of Services of Manatee County.

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Photos by Stephanie Hannum

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Wine was the main attraction at the Florida Winefest & Auction’s Beach Feast.

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8 ■ Diversions

YourObserver.com ■ THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

>> COLUMN

ay D s ’ r e h t o M Special

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+ Royal Tea

Rob and Angela Smithson requested “garden party attire” for their Windsor wedding celebration, specifically that the ladies wear decorated hats. Guests of all ages responded with enthusiasm. Judge Ray Peper awarded “Best Hat” prizes to Eva Morris, whose big black straw chapeau sported a pink flamingo, and Mila Bibler, whose timely tiny one grew white orchids and black feathers. Morris also contributed a sherry trifle, a 10-layer ribbon cake and Prince William’s favorite chocolate biscuit cake to the beautiful tea table.

Victoria Bibler, 6, in blackand-white like her mom, and Elizabeth Ebury, 7, left the wedding-watching to the grown-ups and frolicked in the bucolic setting.

Among the guests: Robert and Shannon Warren, John and Caroline Sansone, Bill and Margaret Wise, Judge James and Lynn Alexander, and Kara Nally. Could there have been a more authentically British celebration of the wedding-of-the-century?

Read about the gastronomy of it in the Edibles column, page 4.

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Diversions ■ 9

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10 ■ Diversions

YourObserver.com ■ THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2011

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$599,000 Sea Twig Direct Beachfront, Updated kitchen, Turnkey furnished.

A3914848 Marty Benson 232-9264 00

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$425,000 Privateer North Beachfront condo, Resort Amentities, Gated.

A3942392 Rayman/Tan 504-9232

• SeeReduced 17 of the $499,900 “Best Buys” in Lakewood Ranch Updated Just Tidy Island Bayfront!

3BR/2.5BA, 2764SF, fireplace, elevator, gated, pool, spa, • Register to win a $200 American Express fitness & tennis. A3937160 Page/Musto 809-3714 Gift Certificate $1,495,000 Hawk Island River views, Boat dock, Custom details throughout.

A3905992 Greg Hudson 302-1485

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LAKEWOOD RANCH HOUSING SHOWCASE!!

Reduced $40K $549,900 Longboat - Harbour Oaks Beautifully remodeled & appointed 3BR/2.5BA Harbour Circle attached villa behind the gates of the LBK Club Harbourside.

Caged pool w/pond &May fountain view.

Mark 1-4 Huberpm 356-2435 Sunday, 1st, from

• Talk to an1350 onsite financial expert about 2BR/2BA condo w/ $495,000 Main Downtown Beautiful your financing needs wood floors & custom built-ins at Downtown Sarasota’s best location. amenities!

A3937011 Michael • Visit Great our Real Estate Information CenterGranston 504-8018 at 8141 Main Street, Lakewood Ranch

$449,000 – Palm Bay Club Gulfside, 2nd flr ~ EnjoySiesta refreshments 2BR/2BA turnkey furnished, Fabulous for investment or ~ Get use. real estate and atennis list of courts personal Pool, market fishing information pier, boat docks, andA3939315 distressedRudy properties & the bank-owned Siesta beach!

Dudon 234-3991

$610,000 Sarasota Surf & Racquet Club Siesta Key, Gulf Views, 2BR/2BA, Resort Amenities A3941955 Mitchell Team 586-1754 -4

• Trying to decide between building or buying $299,900 Sarasotaan existing home? Country Place 3BR/2BA-Kitchen w/ granite & newer appliances. New tile in liv & din rm. Mstr ~ Attend a shortarea. seminar presented

by Gibraltar Homes bedroom w/sitting Eat-in kit. Htd pool/spa.

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Wellman/Moffatt 923-1813 • Learn the pros and cons of both

For Reduced! more information directions: Just $224,500 and Landings South Furnished 3/2.

Water & preserve view.

In the heart of Sarasota/the Landvisit www.PruLWR.com or call 941-907-2000 ings. A3937294 Rita Ferrell Lasky 780-3579 $1,575,000 Emerald Harbor $1,299,000 La Casa Costiera, Holmes Beach 150’ of Spectacular Bayfront Lot, Build your dream Home!

Gulf front, Gourmet kitchen, Designer furnishings.

A3911502 Teri Sax 228-5578 A3915811 Michelle Musto 809-3714

$595,000 Key Royale 612 Gladstone Ln. , Home/ investment, Private golf course.

A3941626 Michael Renick 400-8735

941-926-7000 ~ Over 5,000 listings on our website: PrudentialPalmsRealty.com Prudential Lakewood Ranch Realty and Prudential Palms Realty are sister companies serving Manatee and Sarasota Counties. © 2011. An independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc. Prudential, the Prudential logo and the Rock symbol are service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc. and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. Used under license.

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