Longboat Observer - Thursday, March 31, 2011

Observer

LONGBOAT

BLACK TIE:

NEWS BIG BROTHER

Longboat’s new camera system keeps its eye on the road. Page 2A.

NEWS 3A

Liquid Assets

Photo Heavy

In this issue See the debut of the Observer’s new Black Tie design. 5A.

Squatters buy the keys to paradise — 232 Colony units.

You. Your neighbors. Your neighborhood.

Thursday, APRIL 1, 2011

re-election election

OUR TOWN PEOPLE, PICS & PLACES

Dora Walters

+ Williams’ dreams come crashing down A worker who was trimming bushes Tuesday at Casa del Mar accidentally sliced through the base of the world’s-tallest cotton plant, which had been growing on the property for years. General Manager D.M. Williams said he is so distraught, he can’t look at another cotton plant. Next year, he hopes to secure the title of world’stallest sweet potato vine at 2.75 inches high.

+ Longboat provides novel backdrop After traveling to the area last week for several benefits, Italian model Fabio will be enjoying an extended stay on Longboat Key. After traveling up and down Gulf of Mexico Drive, he told the Longboat Observer that he knew he found the perfect backdrop for his next book cover.

The photo for “Dredging Up Burning Desire” will be shot on the north end of the Key with the Hopper dredge used in the sand project in the background.

See OUR TOWN / PAGE 6A

INDEX Snowbirds to stay till June....15C Whitney Beach gets hotel.......7A Rollerblader signs to come......3A Census numbers change..........4A Raccoon-lovers group forms....8A You’ve got to be kidding..........6A Vol. 33, No. 35 Five-and-a-half sections www.YourObserver.com

ELECTION DEBACLE

Because all town elections from the last four years are invalid due to advertising errors, the Town Commission must hold an emergency special election to re-vote for all commissioners.

By Kurt Schultheis | City Editor

After last week’s discovery that the town incorrectly advertised its $16 million beach bond referendum, the Town Clerk’s Office conducted an elections audit of the past 20 years.

The search determined that all elections from the last four years are invalid — including their results.

Now, all current commissioners and their former opponents must face off in a special municipal election later this month.

The Longboat Key Town Commission now automatically has a dozen members, because all commission candidates from the last four years are up for election again and will serve on the commission in an interim capacity. (The audit also found that a vote is required to release commissioners from public service, meaning that the resignations of former commissioners Gene Jaleski and Robert Siekmann are not effective.)

The new 12-person commission is now made up of Commissioner-Contenders Jim Brown, David Brenner, Phillip Younger, Lynn Larson, Jack Duncan, Hal Lenobel, Lee Rothenberg, Peter O’Connor, Randall Clair, Lee Pokoik, Siekmann and Jaleski.

Former Mayor George Spoll’s term limits still stand.

The recent nominations of Jim Brown as mayor and David Brenner as vice mayor are also null and void (see box at right).

The ruling left Town Hall employees scrambling last week to find five more matching commissioner chairs from local OfficeMax stores in time for the commission’s April 1 special meeting.

look who’s back!

Clair

Jaleski

O’Connor

Pokoik

Rothenberg

Dora Walters

Commissioners posed for this photo last week before the elections error came to light. Five new commissioners will also take a seat at the dais at the April 1 special meeting.

The new commission will again preside over the Longboat Key Club Islandside renovationand-expansion hearings, which are expected to start in June and be complete in July 2013. The town will rent the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall at a rate of $500 a day, every Monday through Friday, to accommodate the large number of expected attendees.

The election debacle could also be a boon for local businesses.

The owner of a local button

company said that he was cranking up production of “I Support the Club” buttons, while a signcompany owner said that he had hired seven additional employees to accommodate demand for election signs. Code enforcement has also hired two additional staff members at a cost of $75,000 a year to help with anticipated code violations due to election signs being placed in the rights of way.

But not everyone was pleased with the re-election election. One

commissioner said the errors are “a debacle” and an embarrassment to the town and said he planned to resign promptly. But he learned that he couldn’t give up that easily.

“I don’t want any part of this, but they told me I have to run for my seat now whether I like it or not,” he said. “I’m going to make up buttons and signs that say, ‘Please, Don’t Vote for Me.’”

SEE RE-VOTE / PAGE 6A

NeWS

www.YourObserver.com

combating crime

Key license-plate cameras to reduce crime, raise funds Longboat Key Police Chief Al Hogle is investigating a license-plate recognition system that would give Key residents exclusive rights to the island.

By Kurt Schultheis | City Editor

The Longboat Key Town Commission voted last week to accept a licenseplate recognition camera system that allows priority access to the island for residents who register with the hightech system by April 1.

The four-camera system, which will be installed Thursday, will scan license plates a quarter-mile before motorists reach a 20-foot high iron gate that will be installed on either end of the island, said Longboat Key Police Chief Al Hogle.

If your license plate is recognized by the police station computer database, the gate will swing open and give motorists five seconds to drive through the gate before it swings shut.

If your license plate is not recognized by the database or if a scan reveals a suspended license or other offenses, police officers on both ends of the island will be waiting to assist motorists in either making a three-point turn to head back to Sarasota or Anna Maria Island or paying a road-usage fee.

Police estimate that the system could eliminate suspicious-person calls on the

island by 62%, while reducing the number of suspicious vehicle calls by 88%, although they worry that the cameras won’t combat more serious crimes, such as boat theft and burglaries, which frequently involve perpetrators on boats. There will now be four officers on duty at all times to assist in the gatemonitoring system.

In total, the system is estimated to cost $2 million, but would only cost the town $1 million if the town agrees to allow Lakewood Ranchbased Sanborn Studios to film a carchase scene down Gulf of Mexico Drive during the last two weeks of April. The studio has agreed to pay the town $1 million for exclusive rights to the road from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will make a formal check presentation April 1, at the Longboat Key Police Department, in an event that is free and open to the public.

Tourists who can show proof of occupancy at an island inn or resort will only be charged $15 per day to get on and off the island, in an attempt to en-

courage tourism and show the island is a welcome place for visitors.

Business owners and employees would be charged $250 per month to get on and off the island.

But those just passing through from Sarasota and Anna Maria Island would see the highest charges, in an attempt to reduce traffic on Gulf of Mexico Drive.

Motorists coming from Sarasota would be charged $5 daily to drive northbound through Longboat Key. Those coming from Bradenton Beach and Bradenton would be charged $40 daily to drive southbound through Longboat Key. When asked why motorists from Bradenton would be charged 700% more than motorists coming from Sarasota, Hogle said crime statistics show that the majority of crimes occur with motorists coming from Bradenton who have expired tags and suspended drivers’ licenses.

“We are just trying to weed out crime the best way we can,” the police chief said.

But one Bradenton man, who has been arrested three times on Longboat Key for drug possession, said he refused “to be weeded out.”

“I’ve seen the Longboat Key, Lido Key, St. Armands Key Chamber of Commerce ads,” he said. “I can always just ‘Take the Trolley.’”

SEE ISLAND ACCESS / PAGE 6A

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, April 1, 2011

MINI PROBLEM

I❤ LBK Last summer, Bay Isles residents who had SunPass Mini toll-road stickers affixed to their windows found that the toll stickers were rendering the SmartPasses they used to enter their communities useless. And it appears that the SunPass Mini has the same effect on the license-plate recognition system.

For these residents, police have devised a streamlined system to help residents get on and off the island.

Residents with a SunPass Mini will need to show police two forms of photo identification, a sworn affidavit of residency, two consecutive utility bills and an LBK bumper sticker affixed to the back of their vehicles to gain access to the island.

(Drivers who prefer not to tarnish their vehicles with bumper stickers will be permitted if they have a save-thedolphins or save-the-turtles plate.)

Police believe that requiring drivers to provide these documents will have a minimal impact on traffic.

If traffic problems occur, residents will have the option of forming a traffic subcommittee to explore traffic solutions, including installing a roundabout at either end of the island.

“This type of system would ensure that we are not only one of the safest town in America, but the safest town,” the police chief said.

We know the value of water,

and we work to preserve it Mosaic understands what it means to be good stewards of our water supply. Over a span of nearly 40 years, the industry has reduced its water usage by more than 75%. Today, we recycle more than 95% of the water we use at our mining facilities.

We’re continually seeking new ways to further reduce our water usage, and to preserve vital resources well into the future. ®

A better Florida and a better world

www.mosaicfla.com 53333

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the longboat Observer THURSDAY, APRIL 1, 2011

NeWS

www.YourObserver.com

3A

liquid gold

Squatters pay cash for keys to Colony Neighbors of the Colony Beach & Tennis Resort say current guests are squatters, not celebrities, and they want them out of here.

By Robin Hartill | Community Editor

The names of guests in the 40-year history of the Colony Beach & Tennis Resort read like a “Who’s Who” list of celebrities: President George W. Bush.

Critically acclaimed “Naked Gun” star O.J. Simpson. Comedic genius Tommy Chong. Internet founder/documentary-maker Al Gore.

The Colony closed in August, but now the historic resort is filling up with guests with an inconvenient truth of their own: They’re squatters who were sick of squatting in mainland properties. They got the keys to paradise as the result of an error made during December’s liquidation sale.

According to a police report, liquidater Chuck Oliver discovered a ring of 232 keys that he thought were for decoration only — like the wax sculpture of a Santa-suit-clad Bud Collins or the reindeer display that Code Enforcement ordered longtime Colony CEO and Chairman Dr. Murray “Murf ” Klauber to remove after he decorated them with hearts for Valentine’s Day. Oliver placed the key ring in a box filled with $3 crème brulée dishes and said he was “thrilled” when a man bought the keys, along with a chainsaw, reindeer display and a bronzed sculpture of a monkey hugging a banana tree.

The Longboat Observer covered the first day of the sale and interviewed the man, along with

Safety first Bicycle and motorist safety tips

 Exercise patience and respect for tricyclists, and take advantage of alternative routes, such as U.S. 41, if you have difficulty doing so.  Do not pass a tricyclist.

Be careful to ride behind the tricyclist, even when it means driving at reduced speeds.  Tricyclists are different but equal.Treat them as slowermoving vehicles.

Tricycle safety tips  Be alert for

parked cars and turtles crossing the street that can frequently seem to appear “out of nowhere.”  Tricycles can frequently approach speeds as high as 10 mph. A helmet is necessary to prevent injury.  Bicyclists and motorists are different but equal.Treat them as different and often entirely too fast — but equal.

Courtesy photo

This is a photo of a model unit at the Colony Beach & Tennis Resort. The squatters will be required to take off their shoes upon entering the units, so as not to scuff the new floors. other sale-goers, about his purchases.

The man declined to give his name, joking coyly yet cryptically that he was in the Federal Witness Protection program — a common response from Longboaters about to be photographed.

“I wanted to buy a piece of his-

tory,” he said. “I don’t plan to use this stuff.”

But police say he did have a plan.

The chainsaw? He revved it up and sawed off the padlock that was used to seal off the Colony property.

The reindeer? Police believe

ONLINE Colony cribs:Take a virtual tour of one of the refurbished Colony units. that, soon, they’ll be back in town. Code Enforcement has received anonymous threats that they’ll be outside the property by Easter, this time sporting bunny ears.

The keys? He sold them through a “Cash for the Key” advertisement on Craigslist.

Town officials learned about the squatter situation after receiving complaints a group was camping out at the resort’s tiki hut. Upon further investigation, they found the resort to be littered with items considered suspicious on Longboat Key, such as beer cans and children’s toys.

They discovered as many as 10 squatters living in each of the 232 Colony units.

But, despite neighboring residents’ complaints, town attorneys believe the scheme is legal.

An ancient legal concept known as “adverse possession” in Chapter 95 of Florida Statutes allows abandoned homes to be taken over if the squatter buys the home keys and pays taxes and maintenance costs for an abandoned property, meaning that squatters have already taken the first step toward a legal stay.

Meanwhile, Colony Resort Association officials were hesitant to comment. Attorneys suggested that allowing squatters could fulfill a requirement that the resort be used as a tourism destination

by Aug. 15, in order to avoid losing half of the Colony’s grandfa-

CASH FOR THE KEY THIS WAY

Scam alert Two Longboat Key snowbirds returned to their condominium unit in January and found that it had been taken over by squatters in another “Cash for the Key” scam. Police believe that the husband and wife entrusted their keys to a housesitter, who agreed to dust, water plants and feed the couple’s goldfish but, instead, sold their keys online. Police have spotted “Cash for the Key” signs popping up throughout Longboat Key, causing concern that the scam could grow as other snowbirds head North this spring.

Police have also received complaints from three residents who said they were scammed into sending checks to the Bradentonbased P.O. Box listed on the signs because they thought “Cash for the Key” was a 501c(3) organization benefiting the cash-strapped town. thered units. But they said that the squatters must be good stewards of the property and, specifically, should not put their feet up on the coffee tables until a dispute involving unit furniture has been resolved in Sarasota County Circuit Court.

The Colony Association renovation plans for the units will continue as planned, including installing hardwood floors

SEE SQUATTERS / PAGE 6A

SLOW SPIN ZONE

Longboat tricycle riders want third-wheel treatment to halt

By Robin Hartill | Community Editor

A new battle is pedaling its way onto Longboat Key. According to recent police reports: 4:47 p.m. Friday March 18: A driver complained that his 2009 BMW had been damaged when an egg flew out of a grocery bag in a tricycle basket and onto his windshield.

7:22 a.m. Saturday, March 19: A tricycle rider reported that passing a bicyclist called him a “Nazi.” The bicyclist reported telling the tricycle rider that he clearly could “not see” after the rider nearly ran into a Budweiser truck turning in to Publix.

1:04 a.m. Sunday, March 20: A woman was arrested for vandalism, accused of spray-painting the words “and tricycles” to the end of “Right lane, yield to

bicycle” signs located every 35 feet along Gulf of Mexico Drive.

9:17 a.m. Tuesday, March 22: A tricycle rider called police to report that his tricycle sustained damage when the triangular flag on the back of his tricycle snapped after he rode under a low-hanging tree branch.

The above reports are just the latest in a series of incidents that show tricycles are an increasing presence on Longboat Key. Now, tricyclists are demanding that the town add tricycles to the 1,173 bicycle signs that remain since the February removal of 32 of those signs. They argue that a tricycle is a vehicle, albeit a slowmoving one, that deserves the same access to public roads that cars and bicycles have.

“My vehicle may have three tires,” said Key resident Matilda Henry, 94, at a recent Town Commission workshop attended

by approximately 75 tricycle riders. “But I’m sick of being treated like a third wheel.”

Mickey Isley, 88, told the town that he was eager last October to participate in what he thought was the Longboat Key, Lido Key, St. Armands Key Chamber of Commerce Trike-athlon. He was angered when he learned that the event was actually a triathlon and that he could not ride his tricycle. This year, he is prepared to take legal action, arguing that he faced discrimination on the basis of the number of wheels on his vehicle. The pending lawsuit has created uncertainty for the event, which Lance Armstrong had previously vowed to make his 11th return from retirement, competing in the race and taking a victory lap around St. Armands Circle.

SEE TRICYCLES / PAGE 6A

Robin Hartill

Tricycle rider Freda Perrotta follows all the rules of the road, such as wearing a helmet, when she cruises down Gulf of Mexico Drive.

INBRIEF

By the numbers

+ Repaving to take residents down memory lane

The town is currently facing a projected budget shortfall of $667,388.01 due to declining property values and skyrocketing pension costs. Fortunately, the Organizational Review Subcommittee found creative ways to cut town costs and are holding officials responsible for every penny. Here is a breakdown of how they will make up for the shortfall. $174,576.28 — Longboat Key Police officers will generate revenue by ticketing motorists who drive at speeds less than 40 mph on Gulf of Mexico Drive. $117,019.57 — Longboat Key condominiums will join together for a Longboat Key Pink Elephant Royal Rummage Opportunity Sale April 1, all along Gulf of Mexico Drive. $109,945.60 — The town will decrease the number of colors permitted on signs from four to two to generate additional sign-code violation revenue. $99,154.05 — The town will install parking meters at Town Hall and all Key shopping centers and beach accesses.

Violators of the one-hour parking limit will receive $25 tickets.

Haven’t we been down this (repaved) road before?

For the past two summers, Longboaters have experienced lane closures, heavy traffic and an overall disruption of the paradise that surrounds them, because of a Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) repavement project. Now, FDOT officials have learned that its paving contractor put down layers of asphalt that are too thin for long-term road use.

Starting April 1, the contractor will be back on Gulf of Mexico Drive with double the number of trucks to replace the existing inferior asphalt. Town Manager Bruce St. Denis will allow the contractor to work during the day and night to complete the project by August. Bicycle lanes along GMD will be torn up first and repaved last.

New state road signs will also be installed every 10 feet in the right of way to alert motorists and bicyclists of the safety issues and construction schedule.

$37,962 — Employees of the Longboat Key Parks and Recreation Department will give historic tours of the island on Segways. $31,619.99 — Town Hall will eliminate its phone system, allowing residents to voice questions, concerns and complaints via their choice of Facebook or Twitter as an alternative. $22,412 — Longboat Key police will add a fuel surcharge when they respond to non-emergency neighborhood disputes and thefts of items from unlocked homes and vehicles.

+ Heat is on for Longboat volunteer firefighters

$16,274.03 — The Longboat Key

Garden Club will hold a non-native plant sale for snowbirds to benefit the town April 1, in Joan M. Durante Park.

The Longboat Key Volunteer Fire Rescue Department is coming back to town. The volunteer-only department was created in the 1950s and disbanded in favor of a professional department decades ago, but Town Manager Bruce St. Denis said the resurrected volunteer department is an experiment to see if the volunteers could handle calls while the firefighters hold a contract negotiation session with the town

$13,777.66 — Code Enforcement workers will only look for code violations from 7 a.m. to 7:42 a.m. Tuesdays.

Board. $7,426.99 — Commissioners will no longer be provided with snacks, tea, coffee and cookies during meetings. (A collection plate will be placed at the front of Town Hall for concerned residents who want to contribute to the Hungry Commissioners Fund.)

Up to 60 Months Special Financing Available**for

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in May. Any Longboat Key resident, regardless of age, who can walk, lift a 5-pound weight in each hand and still has a valid driver’s license is urged to attend tryouts during the week of April 1, at the northend fire station. Residents must also bring a “File of Life” magnet listing the types of medications they are on and their latest EKG test results.

Tryouts will include scaling a 5-foot fence and holding a fully-pressurized fire hose. The test, in which potential firefighters are required to climb to the top of the fire-truck ladder at Casa Del Mar to measure the latest height of the world-famous cotton plant, has been suspended until further notice. (See Our Town, Page 1A.)

+ Paradise found in U.S. Census Bureau numbers The U.S. Census Bureau admitted that erroneous data for Longboat Key was released mid-March. Census workers found that the under-18 population, rather than holding steady as reported earlier, actually dropped by 72% over the past decade when residents were told they could not count toy poodles, Maltese puppies or Persian kittens as children.

Additionally, 22.3% of island residents listed “Paradise” rather than “Longboat Key” on their census questionnaires, causing officials to accidentally list “Paradise, Fla.,” as a census-designated place. Examination of data revealed that Longboat Key actually experienced a 10.8% increase in population, rather than the 9.4% drop previously reported. Census officials apologized for not recognizing Longboat Key for the “Paradise” that it is.

SEE MORE BRIEFS / PAGE 6A

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Beer & Wine • 383-0010 • Take Out Available

MUSSELS • LOBSTER • ANTIPASTO

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$37,219.83 — Town Manager Bruce St. Denis will cook his famous hot dogs, burgers and Cuban sandwiches, while Public Works Director Juan Florensa will prepare his famous salsa to sell at “Friday Feasts,” held from noon to 2 p.m. every Friday, at Bayfront Park Recreation Center.

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, APRIL 1, 2011

NeWS

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4A

THE ‘SNAPPY’ OBSERVER

Black Tie

The Observer www.yourobserver.com

Observer debuts new look Due to a recent uptick in printing costs, The Observer’s Black Tie section will be consolidated into one page only every week.

Of course, we will include as many photos as possible, and by redesigning the page to reflect our new style, we took out spaces

between the photos to make room for even more photos.

However, we will only be able to feature a maximum of three events each week.

The chairpersons from every event must come to our office between the hours of 6

and 7 a.m. each Monday to participate in a paper-rock-scissors tournament to see which events we will cover that week. Best two out of three wins.

If you have any questions, do not call our office.

thursday APRIL 1, 2011 CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Sarasota Ballet 20th Anniversary Gala honoring Jean Weidner

Toni Armstrong, Bobbye Schott, Carol Arscott and Carol Hirschburg Dr. Holly Barbour and Jim Lampl Alfred Brandstein and Rhoda Walk Erin Buchanan Sam Davidson and Eric Buchanan Does anyone know who these people are?

Mimi Edlin and Ina Rae Levy Wendy and Jerry Feinstein Ellen Goldman, Bruno Pasquali and Joyce Jungmann Co-Chairwoman Sydney Goldstein and Gene Noble Co-Chairwoman Sydney Goldstein Christine Jennings, Howard Millman and Dr. Laurey Stryker Lenny and Adine Jordan Dr. Sid Katz and CoChairwoman Someone Deb Knowles, Veronica Brady and Susan Jones Jerry and Kelley Lavin Harry and Victoria Leopold Names TK and TK with Jewel and Mike Ash Arlene and Gordon Okawa with Noreen Delaney and Joe Polidoro Dr. Ken Pfahler and his wife, Co-Chairwoman Chris Susan and Terry Romine Jan Silberstein and Lori Lalin Rick and Donna Stiens with Nicolas Hemes Peggy Sweeney and Barbara Epperson That looks like so-and-so Elisabeth and Gil Waters Honoree Jean Weidner and Co-Chairwoman Hillary Steele Jean Zabelle and Sally Yanowitz

Forty Carrots Family Center’s Firefly Gala

Jennifer Abbott shows off BidPal Linda and Jim Anderson Fran and Jamie Becker, Chairwoman Ariane Dart and Mitch Davis Jamie Becker and Chairwoman Ariane Dart Tom Bowles, Lee and Keely Crosby and Laurie and Eric Beaty Does anyone know what photo we are on?

Scott and Kelly Collins with Bart and Karin Leereveld How many more do we have left?

John Colton and Michele Van Dendooren Lee and Keely Crosby with Laurie and Eric Beaty Bob and Chairwoman Ariane Dart with Sean Murphy Michael and Julie Dooley with Luis and Michelle what’s-her-last-name?

Liebe and Billy Gamble Elizabeth Harrison and Jeannine Stetson

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, april 1, 2011

NeWS

You can relax. All the stories on pages 1A to 5A are fake — as in not real — as in APRIL FOOLS! This year marks the 12th year the Longboat Observer has published its April Fools' edition, and we are hoping by now that most readers realize we are only having a little fun.

In fact, our thanks to several readers who submitted story ideas for our April Fools' edition months in advance — we look forward to this annual issue as much as you. So, sit back, put your feet up and enjoy reading the rest of the paper. Our real news stories begin on page 7A.

throughout each unit and installing 54-inch, big-screen TVs in each living room.

Although the town is currently out of legal options, officials have vowed that they won’t cut the squatters any slack. If they light the Colony tiki torches, they’ll have to comply with the town’s openburn ordinance, and intensive turtlelighting education seminars will be required.

One squatter said he found the town’s stance on some ordinances to be too rigid. He was also disappointed that a wider wine selection wasn’t left behind. But he refused to dwell on the hardships.

He said that he and his new neighbors would work to revive Colony traditions

6A

GOTCHA! Longboat Observer

The Observer

LONGBOAT

the

‘It’s Read Everywhere’

MORE STOPS CITED TROLLEY SEEING THE SIGNS TRansiTiOn

Longboat Key’s weekly newspaper since 1978

thursday, April 3, 2003

It’s free!

our Town

It’s back to the drawing bridge

Realtors unite to protest new enforcement.

Page 2A.

Following the lead of Sarasota with its Season of Sculpture, the Longboat Key Center of the Arts is planning an outdoor sculpture exhibit featuring lawn ornaments.

The works will not be displayed on public areas like Sarasota’s bayfront but will be on exhibit at individual residences.

Wanting to give the show a feeling of community, an Arts Center spokesman said, “Residents will be encouraged to create their own works of art and really use their imagination. Works of any size and all materials will be acceptable, but those made of plastic will be given special consideration during judging.”

Registration will be ongoing and will start Friday, April 4, at the Arts Center. There is no entry fee.

The publisher of the Observer newspapers swallows a company four times its size and plans to make major changes.

File photo

it takes a Village to raise … a peacock?

That’s what Florida Fish & Wildlife officials say after a set of eight peacocks recently hatched in the nest of a Village bird.

Dubbed the “octo-birds,” they were discovered by local birdwatchers Monday, March 30, in the 6800 block of Longboat Drive south. Wildlife experts suspect that a Village resident, who has said she missed the melody and color peacocks brought to her neighborhood since 80% of the flock was removed last year, put fertility-enhancing drugs in a female peacock’s food. so far, save Our seabirds has stepped up to provide temporary care for the birds. However, the Longbeach Village association might have to pay for their long-term costs, which could include hand-feeding the birds if the mother peacock gets overwhelmed. it appears the mother peacock is relishing all the attention her brood of eight has brought her. Whenever a person with a camera approaches, she marches proudly to the back of the nest and cocks her head to the left — her good side, apparently.

Rotary to host toast breakfast

contInued on pAge 7A

Arts & Entertainment Classifieds Cops Corner Crossword Deal Us In Dining Out Sports Health Key Real Estate Opinion Store Around the Corner Weather

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2009

scooped by The Observer Staff

+ Village residents flock together for peacock octuplets

In retaliation to the Kiwanis Club’s “Ultimate Pancake Breakfast,” the Longboat Key Rotary Club announced plans for a “Fabulous French Toast Breakfast.”

The event is scheduled for 5 a.m.

April 31 (Dora, check on this — does April have 30 or 31 days?) and free mimosas will be served.

Rotary Club President Marilyn Bezner said she expects to draw more people to her event than Kiwanians do, because “French toast is more classy than pancakes.”

Kiwanis Club President Hal Lenobel scoffed at Bezner’s claims. He said the only way the French toast breakfast will draw a crowd is if the food is renamed “Freedom toast.”

Index

NEWS 3A

Public paradise

Homeless shelter sets up camp on Longboat Key.

Observer acquires Herald-Tribune

Dora Walters

Lawn art

In this issue

The public service gives its riders what they want. 3A

Florida’s Best Weekly Newspaper

OUR TOWN PEOPLE, PICS & PLACES

See OUR TOWN page 4A

1C 13E 10A 13E 12E 14C 10D 14A 3D 6A 4D 11E

INDEX Classifieds..............................21B Cops Corner ..........................14A Crossword .............................20B Opinion ....................................8A Real Estate ...........................12B Weather ................................20B

Vol. 24, No. 40 Five Sections

Complete story on page 3A

www.longboatobserver.com

Vol. 31, No. 37 Two sections www.yourobserver.com

Jack Elka

2007

2003 SQUATTERS / FROM PAGE 3A

www.YourObserver.com

2008

by perfecting their stone-crab recipes with leftover kitchen equipment. By the Fourth of July, he predicted that the resort could have enough guests for a kids parade.

In the meantime, squatters are resurrecting the little traditions that made the Colony special. Squatters have taken to pranks such as short-sheeting one another’s beds. Recently, they surrounded the Colony tiki hut joining hands to protest a proposed town beach furniture ordinance that would require outdoor squatters to move their mattresses indoors. Looking back on the past locations where he has squatted, the man said that the Colony has a true sense of community.

“This,” he said, “beats the heck out of Bradenton.”

TRICYCLES / FROM PAGE 3A A resident who recently compiled four years of tricycle-related data through Longboat Key police reports relayed the following findings to the Town Commission: Tricycle flag-related scratches on motor vehicles have risen by 57% in the past three years.

In the past two months, police have received 17 reports from residents concerned about a new “triker” gang.

Of the 40 tricycle violations issued by Longboat Key police in the past six months, at least three were written to a retired circus dog who now lives on the island.

Longboat Key Police Chief Al Hogle, who in February described Longboat Key as a “premier bicycling destination” because

The Observer Group Inc. announced Tuesday it had purchased the Sarasota HeraldTribune Media Group from the New York Times Co. in a transaction that will take effect Monday.

“We’re stunned that we did it,” said Matt Walsh, president and co-owner of The Observer Group. “But I’m pretty sure we’re not as stunned as the editorial staff at the Herald-Tribune. Based on a conversation I had with Diane McFarlin (publisher of the Herald-Tribune), when she informed her managers of the sale, she said the editorial people looked pretty shellshocked.”

However, an anonymous source in the Herald-Tribune newsroom said staffers erupted in glee when told of some Observer company perks — two weeks of paid vacation during Christmas and New Year’s; and super-fun company parties (usually featuring dance-offs);, such as the annual karaoke/potluck and the employees’ favorite, “Observer Idol.”

Walsh said the sale negotiations between the two companies were kept under wraps for three months, with secret talks

occurring among Walsh, lawyers representing the Observer Group and a newspaper broker representing the New York Times Co. Walsh said a national newspaper broker contacted him about four months ago to inquire whether The Observer Group would be interested in purchasing the much larger Herald-Tribune Media Group. Walsh said the broker was shopping the Herald-Tribune to several potential buyers who might see the Herald-Tribune as a strategic business purchase and to help the struggling New York Times Co. “At first,” Walsh said, “we thought: Why would we want to buy a newspaper that’s losing value and going downhill? But once we started talking about the possibilities and how to pull it off, we decided to go for it.

We’re almost shocked ourselves that it went through.”

Walsh declined to comment on the purchase price. He said, however, for the transaction to work financially there are likely to be several changes at the Her-

See TRIBUNE page 8A

Matt Walsh, president and co-owner of The Observer Group, stands in front of the Observer’s newest acquisition: the sarasota HeraldTribune Media Group.

THETAN RETREAT by The Observer Staff

Colony sold to Scientologists Church officials plan to redevelop the property and use it as a luxury retreat center for scientology celebrities. Tom Cruise and John Travolta are said to be partners in the deal.

Frustrated with trying to resolve a two-year legal dispute with his unit owners’ directors, Colony Beach & Tennis Resort owner Dr. Murray “Murf ” Klauber has sold all of his Colony property and interests to the Church of Scientology, which plans to redevelop the Colony into a meditative retreat for its celebrity members.

“I’m over 80,” Klauber said.

“I’ve finally decided to heck with these people. I’m going to take my money and go enjoy life.”

Klauber said he and his wife, Sue, plan to live half of the year in Aspen and the other half at a new Klauber compound and ranch in Lakewood Ranch, where his son Tommy Klauber and daughterin-law Jaymie Klauber live with their four polo horses. Jaymie Klauber is an avid polo player.

Klauber declined to reveal the sale price of his Colony holdings, which include the resort’s restaurants, six-story hotel, tennis courts, offices, spa and land that encompasses resort. The buildings are owned by the unit owners.

“As you know, I have put my life into the Colony for the past 30 years,” Klauber said. “And I have no regrets. I’ve met fabu-

lous people and have made so many unbelievable friends as a result of the Colony.

“I’m proud of what everyone has done at the Colony — the great food at our restaurants, the spa, Le Tennique and all of the special occasions and weddings we have put on over the years,” Klauber said. “But there comes

See COLONY page 8A

2009 of its warm weather and beaches, said the island has the following characteristics that also make it a “premier tricycling destination”: The island is home to frequent bridge games and church potlucks, creating the need for frequent transportation for elderly residents who no longer drive.

Additionally, recent census data suggests that 97% of Longboat Key dogs are small enough to fit in tricycle baskets.

LLSA Chamber President Tom Aposporos has agreed to work with all three parties to achieve a positive solution. He said that, as former mayor of Poughkeepsie, N.Y., he has had success in bringing opposing parties together. But he acknowledged that, despite its flat riding terrain, he faces an uphill battle.

“Things like this just didn’t happen in Poughkeepsie,” he said.

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NEWS DIVERSIONS: Budget Breakdown NOISE See how the police department breaks down its annual budget.

Page 11A.

NEWS 1C

Movers and Shakers

MAKER

INSIDE | PAGE 1B

Arts Center jazz night helps audience members find rhythm.

Filmmaker Steve Tatone gives Sarasota its big-screen close-up.

You. Your neighbors. Your neighborhood.

Thursday, MARCH 31, 2011

final report

OUR TOWN

Firm clears Foster & Foster

PEOPLE, PICS & PLACES

The Segal Group, which performed an independent study of the firefighters pension actuary, found the firm acted correctly and committed no wrongdoing.

Courtesy photo

Nick Kovalakides with Jane Boehme

+ Butterflies get home run in garden The butterflies of Longboat Key have a new place to call home. On Saturday, March 26, the Longboat Key Garden Club installed a butterfly house, made by resident Nick Kovalakides, in its butterfly garden at Bicentennial Park. Key resident Jennifer Eisenberg decorated the structure with butterflyfriendly plants.

Dora Walters

+ Blooming tree is gold for watchers

An actuary firm the Longboat Key Firefighters Pension Board hired in December to investigate the actions of pension actuary Foster & Foster believes the firm has acted appropriately.

The Segal Group’s Vice President and actuary Jeannette Cooper told the board at a special pension meeting Wednesday, March 23 that actuary reports from October 1999 to October 2009 “are more than reasonable.”

“We agree with what the actuary has done over the years,” Cooper said. “I will say that straight up.”

The board hired the Segal Group for $15,000 to research the firm’s actuarial decisions.

The board also hired Benchmark Financial Services to investigate the rest of the pension plan decisions made by its board, attorneys and investment managers at a cost of $50,000.

Firefighters Pension Board members Keith Tanner, Brandon Desch and Michael Murphy believe the studies need to be performed, because suspicions about the underfunded pension plan have continued to grow, and its members want closure

When the gold tree blooms, it is a sure sign of spring on Longboat Key. The popular tree can be found throughout the Key. This one is in the 4800 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive.

20 15 10 5 0 -5

-10 -15

1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 Information courtesy of Segal Group Inc.

on the issues raised. Tanner has said the town is using the pension’s unfunded liability as a contract negotiation tactic.

Tanner has stated for months that he believes the majority of the issues reside with pension

actuary firm Foster & Foster and a decision in 2003 to spread out investment losses from 15 years to 30 years.

But Cooper said that’s not the case.

“The changes made were

reasonable,” Cooper said. “The actuary accounted for changes correctly and the assumptions made were common. Methodol-

SEE PENSION / PAGE 16A

POTENTIAL CANDIDATES

See OUR TOWN / PAGE 8A Johnson

INDEX Black Tie................................11B Classifieds...............................15C Crossword..............................14C Deal Us In..............................13C Key Real Estate.......................2C Letters to the Editor..............13A Opinion...................................12A Weather.................................14C

Firefighters Pension Plan Investment Returns

(PERCENT)

By Kurt Schultheis | City Editor

Zunz considered top candidate for vacant commission seat Two former Longboat Key mayors, Ron Johnson and Jeremy Whatmough, express interest in the District 5 seat.

By Kurt Schultheis | City Editor

Whatmough

Vol. 33, No. 35 Three sections www.YourObserver.com

Zunz

The Town Commission, which is now made up of a majority of firstterm commissioners, may not be leaning toward a candidate with commission experience to replace former District 5 Commissioner Robert Siekmann.

“It may be that having experience is not a benefit to us,” said Vice Mayor David Brenner. “There

is a newer bunch on the commission, and the concept of some new blood and new thoughts and new ideas are maybe what we should be thinking about.”

That line of thinking would lean toward potential candidate Pat Zunz.

Zunz, a Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Board member, is the most consistent name that keeps circulating around Town Hall for

the District 5 appointment.

A Land’s End resident, Zunz was appointed to the planning board in May 2009; her current term expires May 9, 2012. Zunz is the former chairwoman of the Longboat Key Zoning Board of Adjustment and a retired landscape designer.

Zunz and her husband, Ed, who currently sits on the Zoning Board of Adjustment, have been Key homeowners since 1985. Zunz was also the chairwoman of the Vision Plan

SEE DISTRICT 5 / PAGE 16A

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

NeWS

OUR TOWN

>> Continued from Page 7A

Longboaters’ LIBRARY List Here is a look at the top-10 books Longboaters read this month at the Longboat Library, 555 Bay Isles Road.

+Tennis Center USTA team advances The Longboat Key Public Tennis Center’s USTA 3.0 Senior Team won a playoff match earlier this week against the Meadows’ team. As a result, the team will head to the Florida USTA sectionals in May in Daytona.

The team consists of Capt.

Joan Kelly, Kenda Smith, Betty Aden, Nancy Kane, Donna Tighe, Bonnie Geyman, Marilyn Chayka, Fanny Younger, Margery Blacklow, Bonnie Marcuson, Kathy Powers, Marsha Thomson, Jewell Emswiller, Marie Hunter and Sandie Joseph.

+ Sanders offers sea of support

Courtesy photos

Virginia Sanders’ dedication as a Mote Marine volunteer is boundless.

Although in rehabilitation at the Inn at Sarasota Bay Club Sanders — and now at Sunnyside — Sanders participated in Mote’s recent recognition of President Kumar Mahadevan’s 25th anniversary. Sanders wrote a poem, accompanied by a sketch, which was presented to Mahadevan at the surprise party.

+ Wedding bells to ring in spring for engaged couple Longboat Key residents Mary Lou and Bill Johnson announced the engagement of their daughter, Randi Celia Johnson, to Andrew Young Mackintosh, of Philadelphia. The couple will marry in April.

Johnson graduated in 2006 from George Washington University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and criminal justice.

She is completing her residency at Florida State University and will graduate with her doctorate in clinical psychology in August from Florida Institute of Technology.

Mackintosh is also a 2006 graduate of George Washington University and holds a bachelor’s degree in political science. He worked for the White House for two years and is currently employed in the Florida Senate Majority Office, in Tallahassee.

+ Tennis Center is shoe-in for cause Through the initiative of Linda Adrian, Soles4Souls, an organization that sends shoes to those in need around the world, now has 700 more pairs to distribute. Generous Longboaters donated these shoes, all in good condition, and March 16 Adrian and several volunteers met at the Tennis Center to pack and ship the shoes. From left are Kathy Gobbe, Jayne Meth, Lorraine Buscareno-Smith, Adrian and Barbara Kowalyk. No more shoes are being accepted this time.

• “The Saturday Big Tent Wedding Party,” by Alexander McCall Smith • “The Jungle,” by Clive Cussler Dora Walters

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TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY ATTENTION VOLUNTEERS

The Town of Longboat Key is accepting applications for appointments to the following Boards:

PLANNING & ZONING BOARD* CODE ENFORCEMENT BOARD* ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT* MPO CITIZENS ADVISORY COMMITTEE GENERAL EMPLOYEES’ RETIREMENT SYSTEM All applications must be submitted to the Office of the Town Clerk by April 19, 2011, at 5:00 p.m. The Town Commission may host an applicant “meet and greet” prior to making the appointments. All applicants must be registered voters of the Town of Longboat Key. The Code Enforcement Board shall, whenever possible, consist of persons experienced in their respective fields as follows: 1) Architect; 2) Businessman; 3) Engineer; 4) General Contractor; 5) Subcontractor; 6) Realtor. *These Boards have regular meetings scheduled every month, and may schedule special meetings as needed.

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Applications are available at the Office of the Town Clerk or can be downloaded from the Town’s website www.longboatkey.org. If you have any questions please call the Office of the Town Clerk at 941-316-1999.

Applications may be submitted to: Town of Longboat Key – Office of the Town Clerk 501 Bay Isles Road - Longboat Key FL 34228 S/ Jo Ann Mixon, Deputy Town Clerk Published: March 30, 2011

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the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

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legal matter

Town moves to validate beach vote

By Kurt Schultheis | City Editor

The Longboat Key Town Commission gave Town Manager Bruce St. Denis direction to file a lawsuit in either Manatee or Sarasota County asking a judge to validate its $16 million beach bond referendum.

The town has no access to $16 million in funds Key voters approved last week for a beach project because of an advertising error committed by the Town Clerk’s Office.

St. Denis also informed the commission that the town is unable to request a special act of the Legislature to get an opinion that would be entered into the record for a county judge to review. It’s too late in the year to ask the Legislature for such a request.

“You have my apologies for the fact that we are in this situation,” St. Denis said.

Town attorney David Persson explained that had the town obtained the opinion from the Legislature, the outcome “would have been easy.”

“Without the act of the Legislature, it by no means assures us of validation,” Persson said. “It’s an option to consider, but there’s no guarantee.”

Noting that the only other option at this point would be to hold another election, St. Denis told the commission he thinks the town’s chances of winning the lawsuit are good.

The town must convince a judge that even though it didn’t advertise the bond referendum appropriately, town staff more than adequately made residents aware of the bond referendum in the form of newspaper articles and beach meetings and presentations.

“As far as meeting the intent of this and making sure everyone knew about this, I think we can make a good case,” St. Denis

The Town Commission gave town staff direction last week to move forward with a $15,000 lawsuit to validate a $16 million beach bond referendum.

Photos by Dora Walters

Newly appointed Longboat Key Mayor Jim Brown, left, and Vice Mayor David Brenner, second from left, presided over their first official regular workshop Thursday, March 24. said. “If we go back through a voting process, we take a step back. I feel confident we will win.”

St. Denis also pointed to the fact that almost 80% of the town’s voters approved the $16 million sand-and-structures project.

Commissioner Jack Duncan asked St. Denis what happens if the judge doesn’t rule in favor of the town.

“Then we would have to hold another election and go through the process of making a beach project decision all over again at that point in time, depending on the conditions of the beach,” St. Denis said.

The commission unanimously agreed to move forward with a $15,000 lawsuit process that could take three to six months to get resolved. If a judge rules in favor of the

town at the end of that process, the beach bond could then be issued to the town.

Duncan urged St. Denis and the town staff not to feel bad about the beach project hurdle.

“At the end of the day, I think you guys did a hell of a job publicizing this around the Key, and no one should be walking around with their head down,” Duncan said.

restoration investors

Colony Lender’s redevelopment plan accepted There are now 15 renovation proposals after a Colony Beach & Tennis Resort Association consultant accepted a proposal last week from Colony Lender.

By Kurt Schultheis | City Editor

The strategic consultant who is working with the Colony Beach & Tennis Resort Association to find the right development plan for the shuttered resort has accepted a 15th proposal.

Toronto-based Horwath HTL (Hotel, Tourism and Leisure) principal Joel Rosen has accepted a proposal that Colony Lender LLC representatives David Siegal and Randy Langley submitted to a Colony bankruptcy trustee more than a year ago.

Siegal told the Longboat Observer two weeks ago he thought the association would have considered the proposal already submitted, because he and Langley discussed the proposal with the association and a bankruptcy trustee in 2010.

Siegal said he and Langley resubmitted the proposal to Rosen last week.

“We called Mr. Rosen last week and asked whether anybody was interested in our plan,” Siegal said.

“Mr. Rosen said he had never seen it. We sent the same plan we sent the trustee, and it was accepted.”

Colony Association President Jay Yablon, who oversaw an association board meeting Monday, confirmed that Colony Lender’s proposal has been accepted and said the propos-

als were discussed at length in the private meeting. The association will whittle down the proposals over the next couple of months and hold interviews with the top developer candidates.

In 2009, Colony Lender purchased longtime Colony owner Dr. Murray “Murf ” Klauber’s $10 million overdue bank loans, upon which the company wants to foreclose. Colony Lender has a May 10 hearing in Sarasota County Clerk of Court to set the amount due for the loans.

Colony Lender’s renovation plan has three different development options; all options include a proposal of paying Klauber $12 million in exchange for his departure from resort affairs and acquiring all of his property and on-site businesses.

Colony Lender’s preferred development option includes investing $20 million to return the Colony into a “brand-new, five-star hotel and resort.”

But, in exchange for that proposal, all 232 unit owners must sign over the titles to their units to a trust, converting the resort from its current state into a timeshareresort facility. Currently, the owners hold titles to each unit.

The 232-unit owners will eventually select the winning renovation proposal by a 75% majority vote.

Longtime Colony Beach & Tennis Resort owner and chairman Dr. Murray "Murf" Klauber and his daughter, Katie Moulton, attended the March 24 regular workshop to urge the commission to consider safety concerns at the shuttered resort.

Klauber questions Colony re-opening Longtime Colony Beach & Tennis Resort owner Dr. Murray “Murf” Klauber attended the Thursday, March 24 Longboat Key Town Commission regular workshop and urged commissioners not to approve a partial re-opening of the resort until all repairs at the property are made.

“The Colony Beach & Tennis Resort property, in its present condition, is dangerous, deplorable and a disgrace to Longboat Key,” Klauber said. “I encourage the commission and town staff to accompany me on a viewing of the shameful site. Until all repairs are made, there should be no re-opening, because I am concerned about liability for the town and all concerned.”

Past Colony President and General Manager Katie Moulton also attended the meeting, explaining that her concern is that if the resort

is partially opened, other areas of the resort will not be safe for those staying at the property.

David Karins, of Sarasota-based Karins Engineering, however, took to the stand to explain that his company is actively working with the Colony Association and the town to “restore the safety of the buildings in a way so portions of the resort can be occupied.”

“Buildings are spread out throughout the property, and unsafe portions of the property can be sequestered and protected,” Karins said.

Town Manager Bruce St. Denis confirmed that safety is a top priority before any portion of the resort would re-open.

“It’s also a top priority from a staff standpoint to do everything the town can do to give the Colony the best chance to be the Colony we remember,” St. Denis said.

10A

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

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INBRIEF

Thursday, March 24 regular workshop that the town will need to invest $259,000 more in its three pension plans in the 2011-12 fiscal year than a year ago. The town will need a total of $3 million set aside in the next fiscal year just to make sure the plans, which have approximately $23 million in unfunded liabilities, are sound.

+ North-end emergency beach project delayed again A $4.5 million emergency beach project that will bring 133,000 cubic yards of sand to the north end began last Wednesday, only to stop before hardly any sand was brought onshore.

That’s because one of the generator motors that sits onboard the dredge blew out Thursday and needs to be repaired.

Cashman Dredging beach project Manager Christopher Bonn said the part for the generator will most likely arrive early this week, and the project could begin again later in the week.

+ Bayfront Park project amendments create hurdles Longboat Key Planning, Zoning and Building Director Monica Simpson told the Town Commission at its Thursday, March 24 regular workshop that it has to be careful when creating amendments to the Comprehensive Plan in regard to revitalization plans for Bayfront Park.

The town is only allowed to send comp plan amendments to the state twice a year.

The town must combine park amendments with other amendments as a result of the Longboat Key Club Islandside renovation-

+ Kelley shares budget outlook with commission Longboat Key Finance Director Tom Kelley told the Town Commission at its

and-expansion project approval.

Meetings & agendas

+ New Longboat Key trolley schedule announced Longboat Key, Lido Key, St. Armands Key Chamber of Commerce President Tom Aposporos, part of a working trolley group promoting the Longboat Key route, announced the group will begin distributing brochures that will be placed at Key hotels and businesses to promote the trolley.

Now that a new trolley schedule exists, the trolley route brochure can be finalized for distribution in April.

The Longboat Key trolley service now operates at one-hour intervals (including stops in Sarasota and Coquina Beach) from 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The service costs 75 cents, 35 cents for seniors, ages 60 and older. The trolley will

 Town Commission Regular Meeting — 7 p.m. Monday, April 4.  Code Enforcement Board Regular Meeting — 10 a.m. Monday, April 11.  Town Commission Goals and Objectives Workshop — 2 p.m. Monday, April 11.  Zoning Board of Adjustment Regular Meeting — 9:30 a.m. Thursday, April 14.  Town Commission Regular Workshop — 1 p.m. Thursday, April 28.

All meetings take place at Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road. not operate on major holidays including New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

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Free home delivery: The Longboat Observer offers free home delivery to singlefamily homes on Longboat Key, Bird Key, St. Armands Key, Lido Key and Lido Shores. The Longboat Observer also delivers to every condominium, resort and commercial building on Longboat Key and Lido Key. if you wish to suspend or discontinue home delivery or your subscription, call Patti Colby at 383-5509, or e-mail her at pcolby@yourobserver.com.

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the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

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COMMITTED EFFORT

By the Numbers

Spoll leads Longboat Key Revitalization Task Force

Police Department Budget The following is the Longboat Key Police Department’s annual budget, broken down by the numbers. The department also received $186,000 in grants and surtax reimbursements, bringing the total police department budget to $2,427,759.

The Economic Revitalization Task Force hopes to attract entrepreneurs to help revitalize aging Key facilities.

By Kurt Schultheis | City Editor

84.3% — Personnel: $2,047,630

1.2% —Radios, firearms, etc.: $30,000

3% — New cars: $75,000

1.1% —Uniforms and laundry: $27,600

1.8 % —Building Maintenance: $45,300

.9% — Communications (phone bills): $23,700

1.4% LBK2010 H — Supplies: $35,879

CALLING ALL RESIDENTS

It didn’t take former Mayor George Spoll long to determine what his next involvement in town affairs would be.

Although the Longboat Key Town Commission decided not to make the Longboat Key Revitalization Task Force an official committee, it wished Spoll well in the endeavor at its Thursday, March 24 regular workshop.

“This task force is about the revitalization of the amenities we once thought we had and seem to think we lost,” Spoll said.

“The job would be to try and solidify some of the potential ideas that might be out there in a broader scope. I visualize changing the north end of the island and making it more interesting than the south end of the island.”

Spoll said he has put together a list of 15 Key residents who he thinks have strong qualifications to be committee members.

Spoll declined to name those residents.

“It’s clear we aren’t looking to provide jobs or put new businesses here,” Spoll said. “We are trying to establish many of the amenities we once had.”

Town attorney David Persson warned the commission that the town would blur the line of legality, if the commission sanctioned the task force and then later made decisions on applications that came before the town as a result of the task force’s work.

“I suggest that this organization could function outside the umbrella of government, like PIC (Longboat Key Public Interest Committee),” Persson said.

1.4% —Professional Services/ Training: $35,516

4.4% — Car and marine maintenance/fuel: $107,134

11A

Former Mayor and Longboat Key Revitalization Task Force Chairman George Spoll is searching for Key residents who may be interested in becoming a task force member.

The goal, according to a task force guideline, is to seek those who have experience in planning, architecture, real estate, finance, engineering and outreach.

Contact Spoll at 383-4818 or gspoll@juno.com.

Spoll had no problem with the suggestion.

“This is more of a booster group where people and citizens can come talk to us without worrying about talking to the town and getting shot down,” Spoll said.

Longboat Key Club and Resort General Manager Michael Welly told the commission he’s excited about the idea.

“Those looking at our island now are younger and looking for something different,” Welly said. “For us not to be on the forefront of that would be foolish.”

Spoll said the task force meetings will most likely begin in April and be held at the Bayfront Park Recreation Center.

“There is an urgency to get this started as soon as possible,” said Spoll. “We could form three focus groups within the task force to focus on ideas for the town’s three shopping centers.”

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12A

OPINION

www.YourObserver.com

Observer

LONGBOAT

“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 Writer / Maria Amodio, mamodio@ 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; Louise Lewis, llewis@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 Manager / Paul Simons, psimons@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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5570 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key, Fla. 34228 941/383-5509 www.YourObserver.com

THE LONGBOAT OBSERVER THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

our view

Pay hikes doomed the pensions “We agree with what the actuary has done over the years. I will say that straight up. The changes made were reasonable, the actuary accounted for changes correctly and the assumptions made were common. Methodology and amortization periods were updated appropriately.”

— Jeannette Cooper The Segal Group

WHAT DROVE THE FIREFIGHTERS’ PENSION LIABILITIES The table below identifies the dates changes occurred to the Longboat Key Firefighters’ pension plans and shows how they influenced the growth in the unfunded liabilities.

OK, firefighters’ union reps, move on. Accept that your pension benefits need to be scaled back.

Indeed, it was as illuminating as a full moon last week when another consultant for the Longboat Key Firefighters Pension Board delivered the fatal blow. As noted in the quotation above, Segal Group actuary Jeannette Cooper unequivocally reported to the pension board that the pension system’s fast-rising unfunded liability (now around $13.9 million) had nothing to do with the decisions of the town actuary.

It has had a lot to do with the town administration giving the firefighters increases in pay and benefits. And, secondarily, with the lousy returns on the pension system’s investments. Cooper’s Powerpoint presentation said it all on page 2: “The Unfunded Actuarial Accrued Liability (UAAL) increased from $646,689 to $13, 985,439 between 1999 and 2009. Benefit enhancements and adverse investment experience were the primary drivers of the growth.”

On the investment side, Cooper’s report showed the cumulative return on the pension system’s investments from 1999 to 2009 were 36.7%. The total assumed and expected return was supposed to be 133%.

This accounted for 24% of the increase in unfunded liabilities.

The much bigger culprit was the increase in pay and benefits bestowed on firefighters. As the table below shows, they constituted 43% of the growth of the unfunded liabilities.

In the same vein, look at the large table above. Cooper shows a timeline of cause

payable from retirement to age 65.

6) A deferred retirement option plan was introduced, allowing firefighters to receive up to 36 months of their retirement benefit as a lump-sum at retirement.

Cooper said her analysis did not include determining the dollar impact of these changes. But she noted: “It is our understanding that the enhancements were made to remain competitive with firefighters covered under the state’s retirement system. However, the increase to plan liabilities was substantial. The employee contribution rate was increased by 4% of compensation to offset a portion of the cost, but the town is responsible for the balance.”

That means taxpayers picked up 96% of the increased enhancements.

And here are two more stunning revelations: “For seven of the last 11 years, the plan had experience losses due to salary increases.” And this: “The experience review noted the last 10 retirees had an average 38% increase in their final pay due to an additional Benefit enhancements...................................$3.7 lump-sum payment of unused Net investment experience...............................3.2 sick and vacation time pay.”

Salary increases greater than expected............2.1 Reading reports about pension Turnover/other demographic experience...........2.1 plans can be considered torture.

Funding and asset method changes..................1.4 But the messages that come out Actuarial assumption changes.........................0.8 of the Segal/Cooper report is Total............................................................13.3 pretty clear. Contrary to a belief that there was mismanagement and effect. When the town increased firefighters’ pay and benefits, duh, guess what by investment advisers and actuaries, the Segal/Cooper report shows the bigfollowed? gest reason for the unfunded liabilities Let’s be even more explicit. Cooper was the town administration and Town spelled out precisely what occurred in Commission acquiescing to the firefighters terms of “benefit enhancements” between union demands.

1999 and 2009. It’s eye-opening: This is exactly what sent General Motors 1) The benefit multiplier was increased into the bailout hands of the federal govby 40%, from 2.5% of average final comernment — weak management. pensation to 3.5% of final average comThis posture must end. pensation.

2) Penalties for early retirement were reduced, so that a retiree’s monthly benefit + Reverse the population trend For those who care about Longboat if retiring 10 years prior to normal retirement age is 70% of the full amount, rather Key’s future, we hope last week’s census data rang your alarm bell and moved than 50%.

3) Retirement eligibility was broadened, you enough to want to take action — to so that full benefits are available at age 60, reverse the trend.

As reported in the Longboat Observer, any age with 25 years of service or age 55 the town’s population shrank 9.4% over with 10 years of service. the past decade, falling by 725 residents to Previously, the requirements were age 6,888 total population. That’s roughly 325 60, age 52 with 25 years or age 55 with 15 fewer families living on the Key. Occupied years. housing units fell from 47.3% to 44%.

An early retirement age of 50 with 10 These declines should be concerning years of service was added to the existing to all Longboat Key residents, property age 45 with 15 years. owners and taxpayers. Most obvious, the 4) An annual cost-of-living adjustment was added to the plan, so that retiree ben- decline in population will shift a higher efits are increased 3% annually, beginning burden of town taxation on to all of the Key’s taxpayers. five years after retirement.

But the more important matter is what 5) A supplemental benefit, equal to $10 the declines say what we are as a commuper month for each year of service is now

Source: The Segal Group Inc.

nity and where we are headed.

No doubt those 325 families who left the Key did so for a variety of reasons.

But in the end, they made the choice to leave because the Key did not satisfy their needs. That’s disappointing. More disappointing, however, is that 325 families did not replace those who left.

Why isn’t there a waiting list?

One of the messages here is this: If indeed we want to keep Longboat Longboat — a highly attractive waterfront, resort, family, active-adult community — we must continue to show progress and constant forward momentum.

George Spoll, marshal the forces. We can think of many who would step forward. Count this newspaper among them.

Kudos to Kumar Mahadevan

A belated congratulations to Dr. Kumar Mahadevan, chief executive officer of Mote Marine Laboratory.

Mahadevan celebrated his 25th anniversary as CEO March 15.

You would be hard pressed to think of an individual in Greater SarasotaManatee whose name is as synonymous with his organization as is Mahadevan’s.

Mahadevan is not one to take much credit, but behind every successful organization is a leader who provides the integrity, vision, energy and commitment. And the best illustration of that is the amazing evolution and growth of Mote over the past 25 years.

We love how Mahadevan described the early Mote as “a glorified pet shop.” Today, it’s a $23 million-a-year, internationally respected research operation and tourist attraction that draws 350,000 visitors a year; has 245 staff members conducting important marine work and operating a fish farm; and 1,400 volunteers who help make Mote the important institution and asset that it is.

No man can achieve all of that alone. But one man has been the heart and soul behind it — Kumar “Mote” Mahadevan.

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

OPINION

Dear Editor: I am a retired pension actuary and was a member of the Longboat Key Firefighters Pension Plan Board of Trustees for two years ending Sept. 30, 2010. I agree with your conclusion in the first part of the March 10 editorial, “Don’t take the bait,” that Edward Seidle has not found much in his “forensic audit” of the Firefighters Pension Plan and that it would be a waste of time and money to pursue the issue further. You reach this conclusion even while overstating the unsubstantiated, hypothetical losses that the fund might have sustained as a result of using “tainted” investment advisers.

However, your conclusion in the second part of your editorial is not supported by anything you wrote. There is no indication that the pension boards and their advisers were not fully abreast of the management of the pension money. Nor is there any evidence that the town should not be in the pension business. Using the argument that most private employers are converting to defined contribution plans might make sense if the town were a private business.

However, unlike many private businesses, we do not have stock options to offer as a supplement to a defined contribution plan.

We must have a benefit plan, at least for safety employees, that is competitive with other municipal plans. Very few municipalities in Florida have actually converted to a defined contribution plan.

It is possible that the benefits under the firefighters pension plan are too high and should be reduced. But that does not mean the town should end the plan. Most of our employees do not live nearby and have to deal with a longer commute than they might otherwise have. We need to design our compensation and benefits to attract and retain the employees we want to keep.

EDITOR If we have to pay higher taxes to fund an appropriate level of benefits to get and keep the best employees, I would be happy to do so. Focusing on reducing our taxes caused the town to change the funding of the pension plans, which helped get the plans in the position they are in today. Let’s not compound the problem by making another bad decision now.

Arnold M. Malasky Longboat Key

+ What is going on with the beach renourishment?

Dear Editor: Please bring the readers up to date on just what is really happening with the Longboat Key beach renourishment project. The dredge is in place and all work has stopped — started — stopped again, and now no one seems to be working.

The original $4.5 million project was to place sand north of Broadway. It now appears that (project) is going start by placing sand close to one-half mile south of Broadway. This section of the beach needs no further sand. This is a waste of taxpayer money.

Residents of Seapines Condominium Association met with (Town Manager) Bruce St. Denis and requested that no further sand be added south of Broadway. Seapines residents are tired of seeing the beach grow to the west every time sand is added to this section of beach. Over the last 40 years, the beach has moved 120 yards west and residents can hardly see the water. Enough is enough.

Thomas King Longboat Key Editor’s note: The beach project has stopped because an engine blew on the dredge that sits offshore. Work is projected to start again this week.

And according to Public Works Director

Juan Florensa, a small portion of the sand being brought on shore will be placed just south of Broadway. The reason sand needs to be placed south of Broadway first, even though a wide beach already exists there, is because the sand will migrate north due to the currents in that area and help to fill in the beach north of Broadway.

+ Departing local leaders are Longboat’s loss Dear Editor: How unfortunate for Longboat and the Town Commission that Bob Siekmann will no longer be sitting in the high-backed chair. It was my distinct pleasure to have the benefit of his accounting and philosophical positions while we were on Planning and Zoning together, and he always added another point of view to the commission discussions. Although Bob Siekmann and I did not always choose to share the same road, I have great respect for his intellect, hard work and willingness to stand for a position he felt might be unpopular.

Brad Saivetz, who will not reapply for Planning and Zoning, has the best understanding of our comprehensive plan and regulatory documents of any engineer or landscape architect I know, and he is tenacious in analyzing, finding deficiencies and proposing modifications he feels essential to improve our regulatory, fiscal and physical environments. We might not always feel his directions are where we should be going at that particular moment, but we must admire his scholarly, tireless approach to find solutions he feels should be implemented.

Longboat Key needs to hear and consider the alternative voices and positions, and we are better off because of them.

I salute the services of Bob Siekmann and Brad Saivetz.

Al Hixon Longboat Key

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Dear Editor: Last week we had to put our little dog, Ginger, down because she ate the fruit off a Cardboard Palm in our yard. We, of course had no idea how toxic this plant was. Neither did our landscaper or our vet. The pineconelike fruit contains red berries that are fatal to a pet or small child. There is no antidote. It is a slow and painful death.

Yet these plants are all over. I noticed them in the new plantings along the sidewalk median at the north end, a place where people walk their dogs, as well as around St. Armands Circle. This is just a warning to people and the town to beware of what you plant in areas where pets walk or small children play.

And to keep your pets away from these plants.

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14A

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

www.YourObserver.com

A Pocketful Of Savings

With home prices the best in a decade, property sales across Southwest Florida are finally on a sustained upswing. Noteworthy amid this monthslong buying spree is the number of foreign buyers taking advantage of the best values across all price ranges.

America’s political and economic stability, the desirability and value of its real estate; and the current weakness of the U.S. Dollar (against other major currencies) has fueled intense international interest in owning property here. This is particularly true in Southwest Florida, which has long been the overseas destination of choice for Canadian, British and Western European buyers.

Many of these buyers discover Southwest Florida through the unprecedented worldwide reach of michaelsaunders.com. Others through our strategic affiliations with five of the world’s largest and most prestigious property networks. These exclusive affiliations include Christie’s International Real Estate, Luxury Portfolio International, Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, Mayfair International Realty and European Real Estate Network.

Laws governing ownership of U.S. properties vary by country, but international property transactions usually include one common denominator—the changing of another currency into U.S. dollars. Currency rates fluctuate by the day, hour and moment. Sometimes drastically. The catastrophes in Japan—combined with escalating tensions in the Middle East—were just the latest to ignite major volatility in everything from stocks to oil prices and currency exchange rates.

8250 Sanderling Rd $14,500,000 #A3940236 Linda Dickinson

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International buyers who purchase through Michael Saunders & Company are spared the ugly surprises that have disrupted closings for many of their fellow countrymen. Thanks to our strategic partnership with Moneycorp, Inc.—one of the world’s leading currency specialists—we offer buyers several layers of protection against serious fluctuations in exchange rates. Such unwanted surprises can suddenly cause a property’s cost to spiral beyond what you’re ready, willing or able to pay.

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As the horrible scope of Japan’s disaster began to reveal itself, the Euro, Pound Sterling and Canadian Dollar plunged significantly against the U.S. Dollar. Each in just a matter of minutes. They have since recovered, but the alarming speed with which rates can change gives testimony to the sort of volatility an international buyer wants to avoid when planning a money exchange.

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For example, the highest rate for the Canadian Dollar since early 2008 was achieved on March 8, 2011—when 1.0341 U.S. Dollars equaled one Canadian Dollar. Then as events worsened in Japan and Libya on March 14, the rate dropped to 1.0025 U.S. Dollars per Canadian Dollar. On a property that cost $100,000 on March 8th, you would owe an additional $3,048 in Canadian Dollars just one week later if you hadn’t previously locked-in the more favorable exchange rate. On a $500,000 property, you would owe an additional $15,240 in Canadian Dollars.

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• A Forward Contract which enables you to fix an exchange rate for use at a later date (up to two years). Forward contracts protect against adverse currency movements and can be used to lock-in favorable exchange rates.

If you’re like most buyers today, you’ve waited patiently for prices to correct downward. If you also happen to be an international buyer, don’t let an unfavorable exchange rate pre-empt any further savings. Working with Michael Saunders & Company and Moneycorp, Inc. you can organize your currency exchange in advance, have the market monitored and be kept up-to-date. It’s all about putting additional savings where it belongs.

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5341 Gulf Of Mexico Dr $3,900,000 #A3916762 Maureen Horn

Longboat Key 941-383-7591 941-539-3384

2151 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 2 $3,100,000 #A3909866 Christina Landry

Longboat Key 941-388-4447 941-376-4498

537 Reclinata Dr $2,990,000 #A3939346 Klaus Lang

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1561 Harbor Cay Ln $1,699,000 #A3935657 Sharon Freeman

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Ritz-Carlton Tower Residence 503 Sarasota $1,595,000 #A3936764 941-364-8884 Beth Afflebach & Joan Dickinson 941-914-0496

415 L Ambiance Dr # B602 $1,595,000 #A3935483 Hannerle Moore

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3040 Grand Bay Blvd # 266 $1,495,000 #A3941143 Sylvia Zimmerman

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

565 Sanctuary Dr # B406 $1,050,000 #A3939492 Carol Cohen Pa

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2232 Harbour Court Dr $999,000 #A3926518 Carol Aviles

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280 N Shore Rd # 8 $995,000 #A3901150 Jenifer Schwell

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380 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 525 $975,000 #A3938164 Sylvia Zimmerman

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

350 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 237 $925,000 #A3940093 Tom Cail

Longboat Key 941-349-3444 941-780-2245

3522 Fair Oaks Ln $895,000 #A3940521 Bibi-Ann Allard PA

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226 Golden Gate Pt # 12 $819,000 #A3894234 Denby Smothers

Sarasota 941-383-7591 941-586-2142

404 E Royal Flamingo Dr $799,000 #A3935468 Ann Martin

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536 Hornblower Ln $799,000 #A3939699 Peggy Mock

Longboat Key 941-388-4447 941-356-3584

2101 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 2102 Longboat Key $749,000 #A3940790 941-349-3444 Joyce Naegele 941-586-7959

510 Spoonbill Way $625,000 #A3939267 Audrey Singer

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101 Benjamin Franklin Dr # 84 $599,000 #A3927154 Bryan Flippen

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

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1737 Mckenzie Ln $549,000 #A3894609 Karin Swanson

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6925 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 13 $549,000 #A3937853 Sandi Layfield

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800 N Tamiami Trl # 715 $475,000 #A3935677 Jim Hanrahan

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521 Neptune Ave $450,000 #A3918858 Walter Hackett

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

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4725 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 113 $425,000 #A3923767 Cathy Meldahl

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691 Tarawitt Dr $399,900 #A3938849 Sandi Layfield

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7065 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 24 $399,000 #A3934359 Hannerle Moore

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2002 Harbourside Dr # 1601 $365,000 #A3931062 Eileen Burke

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1921 Monte Carlo Dr # 302 $349,000 #A3935156 Lawrence Zeigler

Sarasota 941-388-4447 941-228-2612

4540 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 204 $199,900 #A3934262 Maureen Horn

Longboat Key 941-383-7591 941-539-3384

4540 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 203 $195,000 #A3937737 Mirta Matheu Klauber

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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

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

www.YourObserver.com

15A

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$2,750,000 1204 Hillview Drive – Harbor acres $7,900,000 birD KeY GarDeN $1,099,000 PromeNaDe PeNtHouse uNit 1003 $999,000 600 PuttiNG GreeN laNe – lbK Direct Bayfront, 4br/4.5ba 4,082 sF in country club shores new, Bayfront 5 BR Estate Great value in this updated 3,905 sq.ft. home 3B, 31/2B, with views of Gulf of Mexico & sarasota Bay 941.356.6673 Marcia salkin 941.376.6121 audrey singer 941.350.2588 Bob & taube levitt 941.356.0743 Mel & Jan Goldsmith

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sea Gate - Direct GulF FroNt $669,500 ritz-carltoN tower resiDeNce 802 $2,595,000 ritz-carltoN resiDeNce 1408 $1,395,000 ritz-carltoN tower resiDeNce 1106 $1,190,000 2425 Gulf of Mexico Dr. 2BR/2Ba, with Full Gulf views. spacious with lovely southeast views of Big pass, marina & city lovely 2bd/2ba with fabulous views of the Bay & city skyline spectacular 3bd corner residence w/views of the Bay, marina & city Mel & Jan Goldsmith 941.356.6673 Ritz-carlton office 941-364-8884 Ritz-carlton office 941.364.8884 Ritz-carlton office 941-364-8884

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ritz-carltoN beacH resiDeNce 707 $1,500,000 GraND baY – loNGboat KeY $2,975,000 villa Di laNcia PH - soutH lbK $1,345,000 oNe acre sarasota baY estate $2,475,000 terrific plan with morning sun & views of the Bay & city skyline Fabulous views; resort-style amenities; pet friendly 4Br lush West indies style oasis … Deep Water … Must be seen 4/5Br, 1000sf ter,2 car Gar, pRicElEss ViEWs, 1999 price!

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loNGboat KeY towers $879,000 sea Place-loNGboat KeY 2,999,900 GateD baYFroNt acre + $1,900,000 3917 sPYGlass Hill rD, sarasota $1,499,000 Boathouse, deep dockage,5900 sf of luxury.

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ogy and amortization periods were updated appropriately.”

Cooper noted that in 2003, employee salaries and benefits increased and a number of pension modifications led to larger than normal unfunded liability.

“But 2003 was an anomaly for your plan,” Cooper said. “If you remove that year, your plan comes close to reaching its (8% investment) benchmark.”

Tanner said that the plan’s losses were spread out, over 30 years because the town requested relief from a huge pension payment that would have to be made otherwise.

“My question from day one was why the actuary recommended this ‘pay me now, pay me later’ plan, when they knew it would cause huge unfunded liability later on,” Tanner said.

But pension board attorney Robert Sugarman told the board that no one was responsible for any wrongdoing due to that decision.

“What this report shows is everyone went into this with their eyes wide open,” Sugarman said. “We knew payments would spike later on. We were in partnership with the town to solve the problem the town told us they needed relief for at that time.”

Sugarman noted that the plan is not in dire shape, despite the $13 million in unfunded liabilities the plan con-

INSIDE: See Page 12A to read an editorial on the Segal Group’s report tains.

“What we know is the unfunded liability is going down, the town is making its contributions and the investments are starting to do their part again,” Sugarman said.

The comments and the report led pension board member Shannon Gault to state that the actuary’s report means that Benchmark Financial Services President Edward Siedle will not be able to find any wrongdoing with the pension plan.

“I’m not very confident at all now that Mr. Siedle can find anything,” Siedle said. “There is no silver bullet to find now.”

In a preliminary report, Siedle revealed he has issues with investment manager Morgan Stanley and a $209,000 payment made to the company in 2004 that was a conflict of interest and could have resulted in the plan’s underperformance by at least 1% annually for the past 10 years.

“To date, Mr. Siedle has only found a $209,000 payment that the board’s attorney had already investigated,” Gault said.

Siedle believes the final report could be issued to the board when it holds its quarterly meeting in May.

Read the Segal Group’s 44-page actuary report online. www.YourObserver.com

DISTRICT 5 / FROM 7A Subcommittee that recently updated the town’s Vision Plan.

Zunz declined to comment on whether she would accept an appointment by the Town Commission.

Former Mayors Jeremy Whatmough and Ron Johnson have expressed an interest in being appointed to the seat vacated by Siekmann, who resigned last week after five years on the commission, by submitting a one-sentence resignation letter to Town Clerk Trish Granger.

Siekmann, who has his Land’s End home up for sale, told the Longboat Observer last week he would resign to allow the commission to develop an agenda and budget with a District 5 commissioner who would be able to serve a full term.

Mayor Jim Brown expressed disappointment with Siekmann’s resignation at last week’s regular workshop and cited Siekmann’s experience as one of the qualities that the majority of the commission would miss.

Experience is one of the qualities that neither Whatmough nor Johnson lacks.

In an e-mail sent to Brown Monday, March 28, Whatmough expressed his interest.

“The coming year will be a year of opportunity for Longboat Key to shine and move forward and to hopefully put some issues to bed,” Whatmough wrote. “I look forward

Longboat Key Garden Club & Longboat Key Center for the Arts presents

YOU PUT THEM IN A SAFE PLACE. NOW, WHERE WAS THAT? Are your stock, bond or other certificates in a deposit box, desk drawer or closet…or are you not sure?

A TASTE OF THE KEYS AND

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We automatically process dividend and interest payments, mergers, splits and more. Even better, you get a consolidated account statement and one form at tax time.

Ticket price: $50.

MODELING THE BROOKS BROTHERS MODELS FOR THE BROOKS BROTHERSFASHIONS FASHION Bruce St. Denis – Town Manager Juan Florenza s – Director of Public Works Bob TownCommissioner Commissioner JackSiekmann Duncan - –Town Jack Black – LBK Businessman Phil Younger – Town Commissioner Phill Jim Brown – Town Commissioner Paul Dezzi – Fire Chief Al Hogle – Police Chief Tom Aposporos – President, Chamber of Commerce Ron Johnson – Former Former Town Town Mayor Commissioner and Mayorof Art and Design Dr. Larry Thompson, President of Ringling College

Saivetz resigns Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Board member Bradford Saivetz will not seek reappointment to the board when the Town Commission makes its board appointments at its Monday, April 4 regular meeting.

Wrote Saivetz in a letter to the town dated March 25: “It is with a deep sense of regret and futility that I must advise you that I will forego the pleasure of applying to serve a second term on the Planning and Zoning Board. In all sincerity I tried to contribute to Longboat Key my years of experience in dealing with planningand-zoning matters, but the result was not as mutually rewarding as it was back in the real world with my client roster. I am not resigning but, God willing, will continue to serve out my current term.”

Saivetz believes his comments and suggestions during his current term were ignored and that he cannot serve as an effective board member.

The Town Commission appointed Saivetz to the board last year when Planning Board member John Redgrave resigned after an issue arose over whether his Longboat Key address was his permanent, homesteaded residence.

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to being involved in this process, whether it be the beach, the Colony’s future, Whitney Beach Plaza or the Avenue of the Flowers. A true period of opportunity for Longboat Key.” Whatmough has been a full-time Longboat Key resident since 1996 and has six years of service to the town as a commissioner and mayor.

Whatmough served as a commissioner from 2002 to 2007 and served as mayor during his last year in office.

Meanwhile, Johnson told the Longboat Observer Monday that he also is interested in being appointed to the seat.

“I never thought I ever really wanted to do this again,” Johnson said. “But after all that’s happened, I am open to an appointment. If history is really what the commission needs, I have a lot of history.”

Johnson was a commissioner from 1998 to 2004 and served as the town’s mayor in his last year in office.

Another name being talked about is David Miller, owner of Cannons Marina, who told the Longboat Observer he would have to give an appointment to the Town Commission “considerable thought.”

“I’m still in business out here and am pretty busy,” said Miller, who said he would lean toward not accepting an appointment.

The Town Commission will make its District 5 appointment at its 7 p.m. Monday, April 4 regular meeting.

Member SIPC

50964

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Daily News. Blogs.

Photos.

And much more.

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

COPS March 15 Meat your match 4:14 p.m. — Intersection of Longboat Drive North and Fox Street. Soliciting. A man who was selling meat from his truck door-to-door was arrested for multiple active suspensions.

March 17 Accident report 4:58 p.m. — 700 block of Broadway.

Property Damage. A woman reported that someone rear-ended her car while she was stopped at a stop sign on St. Armands Circle. She was advised to file a report with the Sarasota Police Department and was also advised not to leave the scene of an accident in the future.

March 18

NeWS

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CORNER

17A

CLASSIC COPS

might have prompted the incident. The association planned to combat the issue with extra patrol after dark.

a suspended driver’s license and driving a car with an expired tag. The vehicle was towed from the scene.

Party all-night long

March 22

5:28 p.m. — 400 block of North Shore Road. Noise Disturbance. A north-end Key resident complained of unusual loud music coming from a boat moored on Beer Can Island. Police asked the boater to turn to music down, and he agreed.

9:45 a.m. — 3400 block of GMD. Parking Violation. Employees of a resort parked on a vacant lot, unknowingly violating a town ordinance. The vehicles were promptly moved.

No parking

Bad day

March 24

9:42 p.m. — 100 block of GMD. Traffic Violation. A woman was asked to leave the Chart House restaurant after causing a disturbance; she had not taken her bipolar medication. She was later pulled over and issued citations for driving with

3:22 p.m. — 100 block of Broadway.

Code Enforcement. Police located a man and a black dog coming back from the beach and informed the dog’s owner that dogs aren’t allowed to enjoy the beach.

Dog dip

Assault with a deadly wea-pen?

March 17, 2000 — 11:56 a.m. 4000 block GMD. Assault. An irate customer threw an ink pen at a rental agent.

The customer grabbed her arm and cussed at her. The customer was upset because the agent wouldn’t give her a list of addresses of available properties.

Police are searching for the attacker.

That’s a sobering thought March 22, 2003 — 12:30 a.m. New Pass Bridge. DUI. Police arrested a 74-year-old man for driving while intoxicated after he failed roadside sobriety tests. He told police he couldn’t pass the tests even if he were sober. He likened the officer to a communist.

Shot in the dark 7:28 a.m. — 5100 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive (GMD). Suspicious Circumstance. A man thought he heard the sound of gunshots coming from north of his home. A neighbor also confirmed the gunfire. Police found nothing to confirm the reports.

Created from a Dream

March 19 Sandy paws 11:36 a.m. — 100 block of North Shore Road. Code Enforcement. A woman was told she couldn’t walk her small, white pitbull-mix puppy on the beach — no matter how much the puppy was enjoying it.

Domestic violence 6:02 p.m. — 4400 block of GMD. Domestic Violence. A man called police to report a disturbance in the car in front of him. Police located the car and discovered the female passenger had a bloody nose; four children were sitting in the backseat of the car. She explained that when she threw the driver’s cellphone out the window, he hit her in the nose with his elbow.

He was placed under arrest for domestic battery.

Awaken your vision— experience the new Dalí.

You’ll find there is more to Dalí than you ever imagined.

March 20 Teenage angst 12:26 a.m. — 4200 block of GMD. Noise Disturbance. Police advised a group of 10 teenagers staying at a local resort that they were being too loud. They agreed to go inside, but police received another call about the same group. Police told them they were in danger of being evicted if another complaint was made.

No parking after hours 4:30 a.m. — 100 block of GMD. Code Enforcement. Police found a man sleeping in the back of his car, which was parked in Overlook Park. He was sent on his way with a warning.

Oh, the irony 1:22 p.m. — Beer Can Island. Code Enforcement. Police witnessed several people drinking from beer cans on Beer Can Island. They were told they couldn’t consume beer on the island, despite its name.

Barking mad 1:30 p.m. — 500 block of Companion Way. Animal Nuisance. Police received an anonymous complaint about a dog barking. The dog owner apologized for the nuisance and explained that the anti-bark collar the dog wears while she is gone was malfunctioning. The citronella collar was refilled with citronella to stop the barking.

Poop deck patrol

One Dalí Boulevard 50380

4:38 p.m. — 1000 block of Longboat Club Road. Vandalism. A woman reported that someone put feces in the condominium swimming pool. She reported that one of the owners asked several juveniles to stay out of the pool days prior, which

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the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

NeWS

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community calendar

Public 25th Annual Run for the Turtles — takes

Strom

Eye Center When you want to see your best.

941-365-9700 2020 S. Tamiami Trail

place at 6:30 a.m. Saturday, April 2, at Siesta Key Public Beach, 948 Beach Road. The event includes a 1-mile fun run/walk as well as a 5K race. Funds raised support sea-turtle research and conservation programs at Mote Marine. Registration is $25. Visit mote.org.

Serving The KeyS: Bird/Lido ST. ArmAndS LongBoAT

Coldwell Banker’s Cocktails Courtside What: The Longboat Key, Lido Key, St. Armands Chamber of Commerce will host an evening of sports, music and fun in honor of the upcoming Sarasota Open. Tennis pros from the Longboat Key Public Tennis Center and the Longboat Key Club and players from the Sarasota Open will take part in exhibition matches. The event will also feature a barbecue and live music. The event is open to the public.

‘Hearing Loss Affects Everyone’ — takes place at 5 p.m. Tuesday, April 12, at 1350 Main St., sixth-floor club level, Sarasota.

The Hearing Loss Association of Sarasota presents its first community event to demonstrate how community organizations can get greater participation and sales from people with hearing loss. Tickets are $10 in advance; $12 at the door. Call 966-8999.

When: 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 5 Where: The Longboat Key Public Tennis Center, 590 Bay Isles Road Tickets: $15 Contact: Call 383-2466 or visit longboatkeychamber.com.

Tennis Under the Stars — takes place at 6 p.m. Friday, April 15, at the intersection of Main Street and Palm Avenue, in downtown Sarasota. Downtown Sarasota will be transformed into a full size tennis court and street party for the Sarasota Open.

Proceeds benefit the Sarasota Open Foundation, a charitable organization benefiting youth athletic programs. Tickets are $30.

Call 809-8996 or visit sarasotaopen.org.

Paul J Strom, Jr., M.D.

Sarasota, Florida 34239

DON’T MISS

Oldies Beach Dance — takes place from 3 to 5 p.m. Tuesday, April 5, at the Sandbar Pavilion, 100 Spring Ave., Anna Maria. The concert will feature a danceable mix of oldies from the ’50s and ’60s, including swing, jazz, country and popular music. Proceeds benefit the Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra (AMICCO). Tickets are $6 before noon April 5 and $8 at the door. Call 778-8585 or go to amicco.org or the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

2020

Sarasota Republican Club Dinner — takes place at 6 p.m. Thursday, March 31, at Sarasota Yacht Club, 1100 John Ringling Blvd. Tickets are $25 for members; $35 for non-members. Call Joni Weist at 924-4010.

Temple Beth Israel Cabaret Night — takes place at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 7, at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. The event will feature MODI, who was recently voted one of New York City’s top comedians.

The Tampa-based Michael Ross Trio will perform. The event includes refreshments, beer, wine and a dessert buffet. For tickets, call 383-3428.

The Longboat Key Republican Club — meets at 11:30 a.m. Friday, April 8, at Bird Key Yacht Club, 301 Bird Key Drive. Political consultant Jamie Miller will speak about Florida politics. Tickets are $22 for members, $25 for non-members. RSVP to Ruth Strauss at 383-5349.

James Harvey Book Signing — takes place from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 9, at Circle Books, 478 John Ringling Blvd. James Harvey is a seasonal Florida resident and new contributor to the “Gulf Coast Lit” genre with his debut novel, “Grayton Beach Affair.”

Call 388-2850.

A Taste of the Keys and Male Fashion Show — takes place at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 13, at the Longboat Key Center for the Arts, a Division of Ringling College of Art and Design, 6860 Longboat Drive S. Bruce St. Denis, Al Hogle, three town commissioners and others will take male

modeling to a new level at this fundraising event. Participating restaurants will include the Longboat Key Club and Resort, Chart House and Lazy Lobster. Tickets are $50.

Call Jackie Salvino at 383-1406.

Fidelity Investments Senior Doubles Tennis Tournament — takes place at 9 a.m. Monday, April 14 through Thursday, April 17, at the Longboat Key Public Tennis Center, 590 Bay Isles Road. Registration is $40 per person. The tournament is a USTAdesignated tournament and is open to men ages 60s and 70s and women in the 55 and 65 age categories. Call the tennis center at 316-8367 or visit USTAFlorida.com.

Party on the Pass — takes place at 6 p.m.

Saturday, April 16, at Mote’s Aquarium Courtyard, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway.

Tickets are $75 and include beer, wine and food stations provided by the Sarasota-Manatee Originals. Silent and live auctions will be featured and benefit Mote’s ongoing care and rehabilitation of sick, injured or stranded dolphins, whales and sea turtles. Call 3884441 or visit www.mote.org/partonthepass.

Shall We Dance — takes place at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 19, at the Longboat Key Center for the Arts, a Division of Ringling College of Art and Design, 6860 Longboat Drive S. Fuzion Dance Artists will perform with area musicians for an evening of music and movement. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Call 383-2345.

45998 17724

on the key

If your organization would like to have meetings or events publicized, mail or fax the information at least one week in advance to the Longboat Observer, Box 8100, Longboat Key 34228; fax: 383-7193 or e-mail: rhartill@yourobserver.com. All announcements must be typed, include hour and date of meeting, complete address of meeting place and a telephone reference number. To ensure accuracy, no telephone calls. Deadline is the previous Tuesday, 5 p.m.

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the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

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19A

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

Gold and Silver Coins Selling for Highest Prices in Over 30 Years Due to Weak Economy and It’s Happening Right Here in Bradenton!

By KEN MCINTOSH STAFF WRITER ICCA will be placing ads in newspapers, radio and running television spots this week asking people to bring in any old silver and gold coins made before 1965. Those that bring in their coins will be able to speak with collectors one on one and have their coins looked at with an expert set of eyes.

With the help of these ICCA members, offers will be made to those that have coins made before 1965. Offers will be made based on silver or gold content and the rarity of the coins. All coins made before 1965 will be examined and purchased including gold coins, silver coins, silver dollars, all types of nickels and pennies. Those that decide to sell their coins will be paid on the spot.

If you are like a lot of people you might have a few old coins or even a coffee can full lying around. If you have ever wondered what they are worth now might be your chance to find out and even sell them if you choose. They could be worth a lot according to the International Coin Collectors Association also known as ICCA. Collectors will pay a fortune for some coins and currency for their collections. If it is rare enough, one coin could be worth over $100,000 according to Eric Helms, coin collector and ICCA member. One ultra rare dime, an 1894S Barber, sold for a record $1.9 million to a collector in July of 2007.

While that is an extreme example, many rare and valuable coins are stashed away in dresser drawers or lock boxes around the country. The ICCA and its collector members have organized a traveling event in search of all types of coins and currency. Even common coins can be worth a significant amount due to the high price of silver and gold, says Helms. Washington quarters and Roosevelt dimes can be worth many times their face value. Recent silver markets have driven the price up on common coins made of silver. Helms explains that all half dollars, quarters and dimes made before 1965 contain 90% silver and are sought after any time silver prices rise. Right now it’s a sellers market he said.

The rarest coins these collectors are looking for include $20, $10, $5 and $2 1/2 gold coins and any coin made before 1850. These coins always bring big premiums according to the ICCA. Silver dollars are also very sought after nowadays.

Other types of items the ICCA will be purchasing during this event include U.S. currency, gold bullion, investment gold, silver bars, silver rounds, proof sets, etc.

Even foreign coins are sought after and will be purchased.

Also at this event anyone can sell their gold jewelry, dental gold or anything made of gold on the spot.

Gold is currently trading at over $1,100.00 per ounce near an all time high. Bring anything you think might be gold and the collectors will examine, test and price it for free. If you decide to sell, you will be paid on the spot – it has been an unknown fact that coin dealers have always paid more for jewelry and scrap gold than other jewelers and pawn brokers.

So whether you have one coin you think might be valuable or a large collection you recently inherited, you can talk to these collectors for free. If your’re lucky you may have a rarity worth thousands. Either way there is nothing to lose and it sounds like fun!

For more information on this event visit the ICCA website at www.internationalcoincollectors .com

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ADMISSION CONTINUES IN BRADENTON

WE BUY SCRAP GOLD & GOLD JEWELRY

Here’s How It Works: • Gather items of interest from your attic, safe deposit box, garage, basement, etc. There is no limit to the amount of items you can bring • No appointment necessary • If interested in selling, we will consult our collector’s database to see if a buyer exists. 90% of all items have offers in our database • The offer is made on the spot on behalf of our collectors making the offer • If you decide to accept the offer, we will pay you on the spot!

• You get 100% of the offer with no hidden fees

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DIRECTIONS: (941) 757-5556 SHOW INFO: (217) 787-7767

PAPER MONEY All denominations made before 1934.

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1893 Morgan PAID $1,800

Broken and unused jewelry, dental gold.

1916 Mercur y DIme

JEWELRY

PAID $2,800

SCRAP GOLD

Diamond rings, bracelets, earrings, loose diamonds, all gem stones, etc.

PLATINUM Anything made of platinum.

SILVER Flatware, tea sets, goblets, jewelry, etc. and anything marked sterling.

1000 NATIONAL EVENTS!

1932 Washington Quarter PAID $250

1849 Gold Dollar PAID $8,500

1803 $10 Gold PAID $14,000 54881

Including $20, $10, $5, $4, $3, $2.5, $1, Private Gold, Gold Bars, etc.

20A

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

NeIGHBORHOOD

www.YourObserver.com

beach bash

waterfront PICNIC

Longboat Harbour celebrates annual Review of the Fleet

By Dora Walters | Senior Editor

Following the annual Review of the Fleet ceremony March 24, members of the Longboat Harbour Yacht Club held a kayak race and waterfront picnic. Commodore Maggie Edger organized the event and awarded prizes to the race winners.

Bobby Winter won the kayak race again this year. Claiming the booby prize was Debbie O’Connor.

The yacht club is celebrating its 40th year.

Co-Chairwomen Mary Harper and Debbie Comer

Peter and Carol Fegen with Carole and Clem Reiss

Lido Key residents toast at sunset cocktail party

By Loren Mayo | Staff Writer

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gathered for their annual sunset cocktail party March 24, at Sun and Surf Colony, on Lido Beach.

MarcAnthony Roman got everyone laughing with his ’70s rewind play list, when he substituted the original lyrics of several songs with his own.

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

NeIGHBORHOOD

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HISTORIC PERSPECTIVE

Seaplace residents dance the night away

By Dora Walters | Senior Editor

The Seaplace annual poolside party March 23 offered barbecue with all the trimmings and the music of Lynn’s Spins to the 150 guests who enjoyed the evening. It was the last party for organizer Don Richer; Sandra Endres will be in charge of Seaplace events next year.

Evey Huntington and her brother, Cy Bispham

Jim and Joyce Huber

Residents enjoy their ‘Night at the Museum’ A “Night at the Museum,” a fundraiser for the Longboat Key Historical Society, was held March 24, at the Bayou Tavern restaurant in Whitney Beach Plaza.

Among those attending were Cy Bispham and his sister, Evey Huntington.

Their family moved in 1910 to Longboat Key and began a truck-farming business for vegetables they grew. A 1921 hurricane destroyed the farm, and the family went into the dairy business in Sarasota.

The society has a volunteer-staffed museum at Whitney Beach Plaza that is open daily.

Colette LaFuente and Shirley Beachum

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By Dora Walters | Senior Editor Photos by Dora Walters

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Photos by Dora Walters

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NeIGHBORHOOD

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cHEF’S CHOICE

Doggies suit up for annual pug parade

By Loren Mayo | Community Editor

Photos by Dora Walters

Milan Adrian and Stuart Scheyer

Grand Bay residents create recipe for chili success

By Dora Walters | Senior Editor

Grand Bay residents Stuart Scheyer and Milan Adrian are known for their culinary prowess. Both get rave reviews for their chili recipes, although the recipes are quite different. Scheyer likes varieties of spices, while Adrian likes a smoky touch using chipotle peppers.

Both readers of Cook’s Illustrated, they noticed a recipe for “Ultimate Chili” and decided to work together and create a pot for the March 20 buffet at the Grand Bay clubhouse.

They spent about two-and-a-half hours making two gallons of the chili, incorporating ingredients such as blade steak.

“I would have added more tomatoes and some smoke,” Adrian said after tasting their final creation.

Scheyer agreed on adding more tomatoes.

Princess and Bailey’s owner dressed them as Irish dancers.

“I would have added more cumin and other spices,” Scheyer said.

Some taste-testers said the chili was a little spicy.

“It’s very spicy,” said Toby Lee Gilfix.

“It’s not as good as Milan’s chili, which won the Tennis Center competition.”

Both men are self-taught cooks.

Adrian says his tomato bisque is great, although the one cooking mishap he admits to involves the soup.

“I put too much salt in one time and had to throw it away,” he says.

“My gumbo is fantastic and my pancakes, too,” Scheyer said.

He also does Peking duck well — except for one time when cooking for company, and they had to order Chinese takeout as a backup.

Adrian and Scheyer enjoyed cooking together and are considering doing another session soon.

If there had been an award for best name, Hzak von Monkeydog would have won. Decked out in an orange-and-blue skirt, the little pug pranced around doing tricks for treats during the Humane Society of Sarasota County’s 14th annual Pug Parade March 19, on St. Armands Circle.

Pug owners laced their pups up in costumes, ranging from Robin Hood and Tinkerbell to Irish dancers, cheerleaders, a lion and even a king.

Photos by Loren Mayo

Tori Wood and Ottie with Julie Wood and Snickerdoodle

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RELIGION

By Dora Walters | Senior Editor

At a thank-you luncheon meeting for St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Women’s Guild rummage sale volunteers March 23, Chairwoman Mary Elizabeth Carey announced a new record had been set for the amount of money raised.

“Gross for the 2011 sale, held in March, was $28,123,” she said. “In 2009, $24,242 was the total, with $26,000 in 2010.”

The Rev. Edward Pick noted the first rummage sale was held in the old firehouse, the church’s first home, and only raised $1,000.

The number of volunteers has increased, too. Seventy volunteers, whom Carey has nicknamed “the rummage drudges,” attended the luncheon.

All unsold items were distributed to community organizations, including the Salvation Army and Habitat for Humanity.

Carey has been sale chairwoman for four years and is stepping down.

Ingrid Wisniewski will be the 2012 chairwoman; Penny Koerner will be her co-chairwoman.

Photos by Dora Walters

Mary Elizabeth Carey

Eileen Ciance and Jeanne Beecher

Anne Flinter and Eileen Devine

Mildred ‘Mili’ Li Distin

Mildred “Mili” Li Distin, of Longboat Key, died Feb. 3.

Ms. Distin was raised in Glen Cove, N.Y., and enrolled at William Smith College and later studied Mandarin at Yale University.

She was a long-time resident of Saranac Distin Lake, N.Y., who moved to the area to recover from tuberculosis in the mid-1940s.

She met and later married William “Mo” Distin, a Dartmouth College grad and member of the 1948 Olympic ski team, to whom she was married for 55 years until his death in 2003. They were active in the Adirondack, N.Y., community and owned and managed the Branch and Callanan mill-and-construction business from 1953 to 1993 and then donated all records of their company, which was responsible for building many of the Adirondack great camps and Historic Saranac Lake. They also founded the Distin Boat Co. in the late 1940s; the Distin 15 is still remembered as one of the sleekest wooden boats to navigate the Adirondack lakes.

WORSHIP SERVICES

The Distins were avid fliers and often flew themselves to visit friends and to their home on Longboat Key. They were hosts for the 1980 Olympics, representing their community in entertaining visiting VIPs at Whiteface Lake Placid and other venues.

Ms. Distin judiciously guarded her age, but her neighbors knew that she was at least in her 80s or possibly her 90s. She was quick to tease and joke with her friends, many of whom were decades younger and had trouble keeping up with her.

Her passions included golf, skiing, tennis, painting, gardening, fashion and champagne. She also served as secretary of the Li Foundation, which finances the graduate studies of Chinese nationals at universities throughout the United States.

Ms. Distin is survived by her sisters, Marie Li Chung and Lien Fung Ho, and numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held on her birthday, June 26, to celebrate her life. Memorial contributions can be made to the Li Foundation, lifoundation.org, the Adirondack Medical Center, amccares.org, the BluSeed Arts Center, bluseedstudios. org, the Lake Placid Center for the Arts, lakeplacidarts. org, and the Pendragon Theatre, pendragontheatre.org.

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All Angels by the Sea Episcopal Church, 563 Bay Isles Road, will hold Wednesday communion and anointing services at 10 a.m.

Sunday worship services are at 8 and 10 a.m. The Rev. David Danner is the rector. 383-8161.

Christ Church of Longboat Key, Presbyterian USA, 595 Bay Isles Drive, will hold Sunday worship services at 10 a.m. The Rev. Bruce Porter is the pastor.

383-8833.

Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, will hold Sunday worship services at 10 a.m. The Rev. Kenneth Gill is the minister. 383-6491.

St. Armands Key Lutheran Church, 40 N. Adams Drive, will hold contemporary Sunday worship services at 9 a.m. and traditional Sunday worship services at 11 a.m. The Rev. Mark Bernthal is the pastor. 388-1234.

St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church, 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive, will hold Masses at 4 and 6 p.m. Saturday and at 8, 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. Sunday.

Daily Masses during Lent are at 9 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday and at 9 a.m.

Saturday. Stations of the cross takes place at 5 p.m. Fridays during Lent. Confession is held at 11 a.m. daily, from 5 to 7 p.m.

Fridays and 9 to 11 a.m. Saturdays before weekend masses. The Rev. Gerard Finegan is the pastor.

383-1255.

Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, will hold Shabbat services at 8 p.m. Fridays and 10 a.m. Saturdays. Rabbi Jonathan Katz is the rabbi. Call 383-3428.

Music Director: Dan Hoffman

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the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

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Diversions

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

SHOW TIME

The Observer www.YourObserver.com

thursday MARCH 31, 2011

by Heidi Kurpiela | A&E Editor

Heidi Kurpiela

Says Steve Tatone: “As soon as I considered the fact that I could direct my own stuff, the next thought was, ‘Well, let’s make it right here in Sarasota.’”

The noisemaker Steve Tatone turns up the volume on the Sarasota Film Fest. Meet the local, indie filmmaker with Hollywood potential.

S

teve Tatone’s voice is hoarse.

Blame it on the fact that it’s 7 a.m., and Tatone spent 18 hours of the previous day in a Los Angeles studio mixing his

film, “Beautiful Noise,” in Dolby Surround Sound.

And what beautiful noise it was. It gave the 55-year-old writer/director goose bumps. Suddenly, his little independent film

seemed bigger. Louder. More polished. Even his unknown cast — far less famous than the celebrities passing through L.A.’s coffee shops in oversized sunglasses — sounded like superstars.

TATONE CONTINUED ON PAGE 2B

INSIDE

DÉCOR:

Step into your dream kitchen / 6 - 7B

BLACK TIE THE SOCIAL OBSERVER

GIRLS INCORPORATED OF SARASOTA’S CELEBRATION LUNCHEON PAGE 11B

Camera Ready

The Firefly Gala / 13B

2B

■

>>

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www.YourObserver.com

■

THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

COVER STORY

TATONE from 1B Suddenly the distance between Sarasota and Hollywood seemed shorter. Tatone had bridged it with one, 93-minute musical drama about an aging pop star living in the Myakka woods, a story he conceived more than two years ago while pacing the shores of Siesta Key Beach.

“I tell ya,” Tatone says. “Every time I get away from the film and then watch it again, I get choked up. It’s like I’m seeing it for the first time.”

In less than 48 hours, the filmmaker will board a red-eye flight back to Sarasota, where he’s lived since 1992 with his wife, Linda, a longtime employee at Sarasota Memorial Hospital, to embark on a local media blitz to drum up interest in “Beautiful Noise.”

Not that he needs to scramble.

Filmed last fall entirely in Sarasota and Myakka City, the movie, produced

by Tatone’s Midnight Pass Productions, secured a record six screenings at the Sarasota Film Festival — more than any other film selection in SFF’s 13-year history.

The April 9 premiere sold out before it even went on sale.

Tatone’s excitement is palpable even over a long-distance phone call. Like a parent whose child has just graduated from college, the filmmaker’s voice is ignited with delight. The fruit of his labor has been tossed into the world, and it’s ripe with opportunity.

“Everybody is looking for the next ‘Once,’ and we may have it here,” Tatone says, referencing the sweetly understated Irish musical drama that received an Academy Award nomination in 2007 for “Best Original Song.” “As soon as we wrapped principal photography, I immediately wrote a prequel and a sequel to the movie. I knew we had lighting in a bottle.”

Tatone loves that catchphrase: lighting

IF YOU GO “Beautiful Noise” premieres at 7 and 9:15 p.m. April 9, at the Sarasota Film Festival. Tickets are still available for the April 11, April 12, April 16 and April 17 shows at Regal Cinemas Hollywood 20, in downtown Sarasota. Tickets are available at the Hollywood 20 box office and online at www.sarasotafilmfestival.com. For more information, call 366-6200.

You can catch the stars of “Beautiful Noise” in concert at 8 p.m. Friday, April 1, at the Riverview Performing Arts Center. For tickets, call 387-6360 or visit beautifulnoisethemovie.com.

in a bottle. He uses it three times in one hour with the kind of earnest gusto that can’t be faked.

“On the surface, it’s the kind of movie that we’ve all seen before in some variation or another,” Tatone says. “But when things start happening between the characters, when the music kicks in and the movie starts to build, it just reaches a completely different level.”

The story follows Dez, a free-spirited, 20-something singer on a mission to rerecord the unreleased album of a former rock icon living an embittered and reclusive life in Myakka City.

Starring Bradenton native Danielle White and veteran Neil Diamond performer Jay White, “Beautiful Noise” has a “Crazy Heart” feel — minus the country swagger.

The title of the movie was directly plucked from the cover of Diamond’s 1976 album, and although Tatone, a selfdescribed “Diamond head,” had originally intended to build his script around the singer’s more obscure tracks, he couldn’t afford to purchase Diamond’s material.

Courtesy photo

Jay White appeared as Neil Diamond in Ron Howard’s 2008 film, “Frost/Nixon.”

So, instead he asked his cast to provide songs. The resulting soundtrack, says Tatone, “will blow you away.”

Much of the songs were penned by its breakout star, Nashville singer/songwriter Kimber Cleveland, whom Tatone compares to Sheryl Crow.

With the exception of Joni Mitchell’s “Free Man in Paris,” which Tatone was stunned to have obtained permission to use, all of “Beautiful Noise’s” music is original.

“Eighty percent of the movie is music, and not one song in there is for fluff,” Tatone says. “Every lyric and every melody was carefully chosen to propel the plot.

If people don’t pay attention to the lyrics,

they’ll miss the heart of the story.”

Tatone was so happy with the soundtrack, he decided to create a concert tour (“Beautiful Noise Live!”) featuring songs from the movie and starring the film’s cast.

White will headline the first stop on the tour Friday at the Riverview Performing Arts Center.

“All of this promotion is designed for one thing: to acquire distribution,” Tatone says. “Whether a studio gets involved or whether we choose to release it ourselves.”

So, how exactly did a guy who spent the first half of his career working for his family’s chain of car dealerships in Dayton, Ohio, and the second half of his career working as a concert promoter in Florida, write, direct and produce a musical film with unknown actors, singing unknown songs on a shoestring budget?

By not waiting for bountiful funding, perfect timing and Hollywood’s blessing.

“Beautiful Noise” is not his first script.

Five years ago, he wrote a hockey drama about the rise and fall of a Boston Bruins player in the 1970s. The story, which was recently picked up by a major film studio, will go into pre-production this summer in Boston.

As thrilled as Tatone is to see the movie finally gain momentum, (it reportedly has a $25 million price tag and an A-list cast), the experience taught him that it takes time and patience to see a project through what he calls “the Hollywood gristmill.”

“I’m not some kid fresh out of film school,” Tatone says. “I didn’t care if I could raise $1 million or 10 cents. I’m a baby boomer, with a certain level of expertise, who happens to love movies. I think that’s what is making me successful. I don’t care what people have to say about how I’m supposed to do things.

That, and I just wrote what was in my heart.”

WHY SHOULD I ENTER MY WORK?

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art scene HEARD

+ Local writer chronicles triumph over cancer

Things are looking up for Kim McAuliffe Clark in more ways than one.

When Clark, 45, was diagnosed with lymphoma three years ago, she found she could hardly sleep during chemotherapy treatments. As she puts it, “she was wired on Prednisone.”

To combat sleeplessness and anxiety, Clark, an executive assistant at All Faiths Food Bank, began writing religious testimonies about her cancer experience. Fifty pages in, she realized she was on her way to writing a book.

“Keep Looking Up” was published earlier this year.

by Heidi Kurpiela | A&E Editor

+ Film fest artist gives good face You may not recognize Vince Fraser’s mug, but you’ve probably locked eyes with the pouty female faces he’s created for the Sarasota Film Festival.

The 40-year-old digital illustrator and native Londoner was hired to provide art for the 2010 festival, after the board of directors fell in love with a handful of his conceptual sketches.

This year he’s back with a familiar and equally attractive face. (Hello brand recognition.)

Every spring for 13 years, SFF has blanketed the city with snazzy poster art. With Fraser at the digital easel, the festival’s image has taken on a more fantasy/sci-fi feel.

But why a face?

“I’m inspired by sexy and seductive female forms,” Fraser says. “The SFF face was very iconic and a good focal point for the main canvas. I love creating fantasy worlds and abstract characters in surreal settings, so, for me, this was an ideal opportunity to display my skills.”

Those who hobnobbed with the artist last year might recall Fraser proposed to his future wife, Paula, while staying on

Courtesy photo

Kim McAuliffe Clark

“I’ve always had –– as my folks would say –– a gift for writing,” Clark says.

“My mom always said I should write for Hallmark.

I can sum things up nicely in a few

sentences.”

See for yourself: Clark’s book is available for purchase at Living Word Christian Store and on Amazon.com.

The author will be signing copies of the book from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 2, at Dutch Valley Restaurant, 6721 S. Tamiami Trail.

+ ‘Beautiful Noise’ earns more Hollywood cred

Vince Fraser

Photo by Fuzzylogic

Longboat Key. The two were married one week later at Robert Smithson’s five-acre Sarasota estate. Capt. John Hillstrand, from the Discovery Channel’s “Deadliest Catch,” was in attendance. Now that gives more meaning to the whole “she’s quite a catch” thing.

By the end of this film-festival season, you’ll tire of hearing about “Beautiful Noise.”

The film just keeps gaining more and more momentum.

(See this week’s Diversions cover story on writer/director Steve Tatone.)

Earlier this month, the musical drama nabbed Wendy Williams, an executive producer with more than a dozen A-list film credits to her name, including the new big-budget remake of “Planet of the Apes” –– “Rise of the Apes,” which is currently in post-production and slated for a November release.

Williams, a local resident, fell in love with Tatone’s Sarasota

HOT TICKETS Vinyl Music Festival: Hardcore clubbers have

already purchased their tickets to the 2011 Vinyl Music Festival, which runs April 7 to April 10, during the Sarasota Film Festival. For those of you still on the fence, check out www.vinylfestival. com. The four-day lineup offers one raging dance party after the next. Now in its third year, VMF is the largest Courtesy photo electronic musical DJ Honorebel festival on the Gulf Coast. This year’s event features more than 40 artists from around the world, including Jamaican reggae house DJ, Honorebel. For tickets, call 928-9269.

+ Men’s Journal gives Sarasota some brotherly love Courtesy photo

Danielle White in “Beautiful Noise.”

indie flick, despite the fact that it boasts no known actors.

“She’s going to be instrumental in getting the film in front of people in Hollywood who make decisions to acquire independent films in their pipeline,” Tatone says. “There’s no guarantee that we’ll get picked up, but having Wendy involved gives us instant credibility. I have complete faith in my cast and crew, but nobody knows us.”

Check out the April 2011 issue of Men’s Journal magazine. (FYI: Jake Gyllenhaal is on the cover.)

Inside you’ll find that Sarasota was included in the magazine’s annual “Best Places to Thanks for the love, Live” feature.

Men’s Journal.

Identified by editors as one of the 18 “Coolest Towns in America,” the city is described as the “best place to mix with artists and athletes.”

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BACKSTAGE PASS by Heidi Kurpiela | A&E Editor

Prodigal star

IF YOU GO

Sarasota Ballet will perform “Mr. B! A Tribute to George Balanchine” at 8 p.m. Friday, April 1 and at 2 and 8 p.m.

Saturday, April 2, at the Sarasota Opera House. For tickets, call 3590099, Ext. 101 or visit www.sarasotaballet.org.

Ricardo Graziano’s latest turn as a wayward boy in Sarasota Ballet’s ‘Prodigal Son’ proves the newcomer has no problem acting out on stage.

When Ricardo Graziano was a young boy growing up in Brazil, he thought he wanted to be an actor.

He was an outgoing kid with an energetic disposition and an affinity for soap operas. He danced, but he never considered it anything more than a hobby. The way some boys take karate lessons, Graziano took dance lessons.

Acting seemed more attainable than dancing, anyway. In a country where most people’s favorite pastime is soccer, ballet performances are a rare commodity. Only a handful of professional companies exist in Brazil.

Graziano never considered it would turn into a career until at 16 years old he earned a scholarship to a dance school in Germany.

“The door to the dance world opened, and I said, ‘OK, let’s see what happens,’” he says.

Two years later, Graziano joined the corps de ballet at Oklahoma’s Tulsa Ballet, where he unsurprisingly earned a reputation for performing character roles in story ballets.

He laughs as he rattles off the list of roles, both male and female, that pad his repertoire.

“I’ve played the step-sisters in ‘Cinderella,’ a drag queen, a witch and a wizard … ” Graziano trails off. “I get

a lot of acting parts for some reason.”

Perhaps it’s his inner soap star still itching to come out.

“No,” he snickers. “I no longer want to be an actor. This is what I love.”

He’s near the end of his first season with Sarasota Ballet. When he joined the company as a soloist last year, he immediately landed the role of Prince Ivan in the season-opener “Firebird.”

This weekend he’ll share the lead role in Balanchine’s “Prodigal Son” with fellow soloist Logan Learned, another dancer with a penchant for dancing character roles.

Staged by Paul Boos, the 1929 ballet is sandwiched between two lighter works on the company’s all-Balanchine triple bill: the plot-less and aristocratic “Divertimento No. 15” and the Broadway-esque Gershwin ballet “Who Cares?”

A half-hour emotional rollercoaster inspired by a parable pulled from the Gospel of Luke, “Prodigal Son” is about one man’s rebellion, defeat and redemption following his decision to run away from home.

Despite his dramatic range, the role has been one of Graziano’s most challenging to date.

“You go through a lot of emotions in 30 minutes,” he says. “It’s a lot of responsibility.”

 Ricardo Graziano’s claim to fame? “I’m from Brazil and I hate soccer,” jokes the dancer. “I don’t even know how to kick a ball.”

Heidi Kurpiela

Q&A WITH PAUL BOOS Former New York City Ballet dancer Paul Boos is a repetiteur for the George Balanchine Trust and an international guest teacher. “Prodigal Son” marks his first time working with the Sarasota Ballet.

Logan Learned and Ricardo Graziano are sharing the lead in “The Prodigal Son.” How do they differ in their interpretations of the role?

Each of them is physically different people. Logan is very sort of small, and when

he dances you feel like a very tender, delicate young man is throwing himself out into the world. Ricardo, although he’s a bigger guy, still has a real sensitivity about him. He’s still able to convey the same sort of innocence.

What is your impression of the company so far?

The dancers are so open.

They’re like sponges. They walk into the room and soak up so much information and pretty much instantly apply it. They’re not afraid to take

chances and develop. It’s ideal for any guest who’s coming in to work with a company.

And your thoughts on this all-Balanchine program?

The first ballet is a Mozart piece from his middle period.

The second ballet — an earlier work, which I’m responsible for — tells a story. And his last work has a jazzy, Broadway feel to it, so the audience is getting a wonderful taste of the best of Balanchine at various points in his career.

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HIGHLIGHTS by Heidi Kurpiela | A&E Editor

Iconcept turns heads with art couture Pole dancers and scant fashion lend sex appeal to Art Center Sarasota’s third annual ‘iconcept.’

CREATIVE RESOURCES

What can be said about this year’s “iconcept” fashion show at Art Center Sarasota?

Well, the pictures say it all. The runway spectacle Friday was low-cut, formfitting, flamboyant fun.

It started off with a striptease in a bucket full of suds, followed by a two pole dances, followed by an hour-long parade of outrageous outfits by some of the most inventive artists in town.

Duct tape and trash bags (“Trachic,” by Miho Hosaka) Corona bottle caps (“Shake It Up,” by Elena De LaVille and Pat Gormley)  Paint color swatches (“Newgrugacal,” by Barbara Gerdeman)  137 hot-glue sticks (“Not Quite for Consumption,” by Zach Gilliland and Amanda Landesberg)  Macaroni noodles (“Pasta Dress,” by Ray Peper)  Garden hose (“Botanical Bikini with Hose,” by Daniel Petrov)  Synthetic body parts (“Hand Made,” by Vicky Randall)  Videotape, cable wire and CDs (“Mixed Media,” by Lisa Berger)  Caution tape (“Working Girl,” by Pamela Sumner)

Art Center Development Director Lisa Berger was true to her words: This year’s designers did not hold back.

From Zach Gilliland and Amanda Landesberg’s razor-sharp dress, constructed from metal, plastic and LED lights, to Elena De LaVille and Pat Gormley’s bicycle tube mini skirt and bustier top, it’s safe to say that “iconcept” is no longer just a concept, but a full-fledged Sarasota version of “Project Runway.”

“Street Fashion,” by Stephanie Peters

TM





Jessica Luck, managing editor of the Longboat and Sarasota Observers, models a familiar headline. Dress by Eric Cross.

Photos by Heidi Kurpiela

“Spathalicious,” by Scott Durfee and George Medeiros

A breakdown of some of the unusual materials used to create this year’s designs.

Sculptor Vicky Randall’s “Hand Made” was adorned with dummy body parts used for medical training.

Daniel Petrov’s “Botanical Bikini with Hose” made a leafy statement.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

by Stephanie Hannum | Black Tie Editor

Step into your dream kitchen on ‘Simply Sarasota’ tour The home of Dr. Richard and Amy Buck is a Mediterranean revivalstyle home located at 1607 South Drive and is thought to be the oldest standing house in historic Cherokee Park. The Bucks purchased the home in 2005 and moved in after an 18-to-20-month renovation. Prior to being staged by designer Jason Champion for Junior League of Sarasota’s Simply Sarasota Kitchen Festival, The Observer got a sneak peek at the beautiful family-friendly kitchen.

IF YOU GO

Kitchen tours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, April 1 and Saturday, April 2, during Junior League of Sarasota’s “Simply Sarasota Kitchen Festival.” Tickets are $30.

For more information, call 9535600 or visit jlsarasota.org.

 “When Rich and I were engaged, I found this pattern and have continued to collect pieces,” says Amy Buck, referring to her collection of Vietri dishware. “I wanted the kitchen to be all-white, so it would be light, and having these plates on display really adds color to the kitchen.”

Photos by Stephanie Hannum

At the center of Dr. Richard and Amy Buck’s kitchen is the grand teak island. “Teak is waterproof as well as a tough and attractive wood,” says Richard Buck, who grew up sailing and spent a lot of time on boats. On the surrounding countertops, the Bucks chose marble instead of granite to keep with the 1920s feel of the kitchen.

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DESIGN TIPS FROM JASON CHAMPION  ”Clean, clean and clean some more.”  “When bringing life to a blank canvas, you should always start with your surroundings,” says Jason Champion, who will stage the Bucks’ kitchen for this weekend’s tour. “Nature offers a beautiful array of shapes, sizes and colors.”

“The least expensive way to mix it up in a kitchen with limited space 

would be to paint and use natural elements such as vegetables, an herb garden or even a beautiful banana leaf from your yard.”  ”Get rid of clutter — box up what you don’t need or use and get it out.”  “When staging homes or businesses, you can find something that is personal to the owner or items that can displayed in groups,” says Champion. “The

Bucks have a great collection of hand-painted pottery with amazing colors for inspiration in a flower arrangement. Always try to bring something living in a space.”  ”Consider curb appeal of your home. New potted plants or perennials give a nice splash of color.”

The dual fuel (one side is electric, the other side is gas) double-oven commercial stove by Lacanche is from France. “I read about these ovens in cooking magazines and fell in love because I love to cook and bake,” says Amy Buck. “This range is very stripped down compared to a Viking or Wolf, but I liked the look, and it really goes with the look of our kitchen.”

p

”Consider soft music in each room or in the main living area to create a tranquil atmosphere.” 

“The inspiration for the pantry came from pictures of older kitchens with glass doors and open shelves.

We debated about making it so exposed, but decided that it went with the look of an older kitchen.”

“This (spice cabinet) was a great addition — we recessed a small cabinet in the wall.

It’s maybe 5 to 6 inches deep and so easy to do,” says Amy Buck. “This is more efficient than taking up drawer space.”

p The Shaws Original is a fire-clay sink, and there are two in the kitchen. The customized sinks had to be ordered before the cabinets.

However, the best feature is the Tap Master foot pedal that adds convenience to cooking.

“The foot pedal is my favorite thing in the whole kitchen,” says Amy Buck.

Exceptional musicians from around the world, performing for you in American’s only 18th Century Opera House.

The Artist Series of Sarasota presents

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“HALF and HALF” is a fun and innovative program that is half classical and half tangos, “classical” jazz, blues, and folk music

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EDIBLES: Favorite Restaurants by Molly Schechter | Food Editor

Where the young ’uns like to eat The question posed to an assortment of Sarasota parents and grandparents was: ”Where do you go out to eat when you are taking the kids or grandkids?”

McDonald’s and pizza make anticipated but limited appearances. These kids go for teppanyaki, sushi and organic foods.

“Tommy Bahama for ribs. Tokyo is always lots of fun, easy and makes for great conversation. The ‘I Love You’ crepe at Café Palm is heaven — I wish they had a drive-thru window. ” —Bobbie and Lisa Morris

“As a family, we all love Kazu – Sy, 10, is an edamame, tempura and rice guy, and Hugh, 8, goes for miso soup and sushi, particularly the eel rolls. The kids often vote for TooJay’s first. Sy is stuck on those chicken fingers, and Hugh has a thing for their matzoh ball soup … and both consume a small mountain of their fresh rye bread every time. Both restaurants are a sigh of relief for Mom … there’s nothing worse than announcing your dinner plan for the night and hearing your kids say, ‘Ugh, not that again, Mom …’”

—Baron and Patty Schimberg

Courtesy photo

Avery and Blair Fields with grandpa Gary and Grandma Barbara Eisenberg

Courtesy photo

Hugh, Sy, Baron and Patty Schimberg

“Jason’s Deli on University Parkway … allnatural or organic and no artificial additives.

My kids’ favorite part is the free ice cream.

If you asked Jordan, he would say ‘Old McDonald,’ only because of the play area.”

—Matthew and Dawn Klee

“We enjoy dinner with our grandchildren, Avery Fields, 12, and Blair Fields, 9, along with their parents at Café Don Giovanni.

Wonderful owner, good food, fair prices, etc. But, of course, Grammy’s kitchen, which she uses a lot, is always the best.”

—Gary and Barbara Eisenberg

Courtesy photo

Gillian, 3 1/2, and twins Geneva and Jordan, 4 1/2

“One of our favorites is Demetrio’s. Ansley and Matthew often frequent ‘Metrio’s and they love when the owner brings them a Courtesy photo plate of pasta Matthew, 3 1/2 and shells while they Ansley, 7 1/2 wait. It has been a favorite of the Morris family for decades.

My husband’s family has lived around the corner for over 20 years and many a Sunday evening meal has been shared over Greek salad and pizza.”—Amanda Morris

“Our grandchildren are seven girls and, finally, a boy! They love coming here.

We take them to Owen’s Fish Camp, Mediterraneo and Dry Dock. And the best: Michael’s On East and the Wine Cellar. We have celebrated our big birthdays there.”

Courtesy photo

Three generations of Jacobson’s at Michael’s Wine Cellar

Courtesy photo

“My 10-year-old grandson prefers the Beach Bistro to Patrick’s and filet mignon to burgers. Not typical, but he wants to be a chef and requests a trip to the kitchen wherever we go. He is not a cheap date, but what a lot of fun and surprises.”

—Flori Roberts

UNDER THE BIG TOP A Celebration of 62 Years The Greatest “Little” Show on Earth Best Value in Family Entertainment

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REVIEWS

Music

Film >> ‘Certified

Copy’

“Certified Copy” is a strange film. I don’t believe that it was meant to be entertaining. Rather it’s considered “an ambulatory experience.” Driven by conversation, the film follows a couple who seems to have just met against the breathtakingly beautiful backdrop of Tuscany, in Italy.

An unnamed woman (Juliette Binoche) attends a lecture at which the author of a book (William Shimell) speaks about the concept of “real copy.” His premise is that a copy of an original work of art can be just as important as the original (citing Andy Warhol and Jasper Johns).

She’s intrigued and invites him on a drive to a nearby village.

As their conversations unfold, the couple begins to act as though they’re married. Were they pretending to be strangers? Was their initial encounter fake and later that day, a reality? Is life imitating art or vice-versa?

These are the questions upon which “Certified Copy” revolves.

At times it becomes tedious, but Binoche’s performance is so lovely to behold, one forgives. Long, lingering close-ups of her revealing countenances speak volumes without uttering a syllable. British opera star Shimell, in his first film role, is immensely impressive. He has a George Clooney-ness about him, even a resemblance.

Writer/director Abbas Kiarostami (“Five”) seems

>> Sarasota

Opera: The Risorgimento Concert

Courtesy photo

Juliette Binoche stars in “Certified Copy.” to have intentionally created a “copy” of an original film (possibly “Before Sunset” or “Journey to Italy”). The similarities are blatant and, thus, his film purposefully mirrors another, as does the relationship between his two main characters. Consider the title.

“Certified Copy” was written specifically by Kiarostami for Binoche.

She honors him by delivering an astounding performance. For it, she

received the “Best Actress Award” at the 2010 Cannes Film Festival.

I must confess feeling confused after having watched “Certified Copy.” But, upon reflection, I sensed that this was Kiarostami’s intent. They say when a film feels like a small stone in your shoe it has left a lasting impression. I’m still trying to locate that pebble in my boot.

— Pam Nadon

Announcing one of our newest “Estheticians”, Nina Schlussel

ing the “Libera me” and “Dies Irae” with a drama rarely heard in concert.

Vocal excerpts from “Attila,” “Il Trovatore,” “I vespri siciliani” and “Macbeth,” sung with power and energy by Davila, D’Amato and Kevin Short, were in the second half, along with the Overture (rather than the usual “Prelude”) to “Aida,” “Suona la tromba,” (a vibrant chorus specially composed by Verdi to show his espousal of the Unification), a section from Montemezzi’s “L’amore dei tre re,” (the only work on the program not by Verdi) and, finally, “Va, pensiero,” the chorus from “Nabucco” that makes us all proud to be Italian, if only by proxy.

Verdi wrote in a letter during his first trip to Florence, Italy, “How really beautiful this Italy of ours is.” The Sarasota Opera concert would have made the maestro say, “How really beautiful this Sarasota of ours is,” because the real stars of the evening were the musicians: instrumentalists (on stage and seen), the chorus (singing spectacularly) and DeRenzi, who masterminded this masterful evening.

— June LeBell

Regional Exhibition Celebrate the Juried Season atPhotography Longboat Key Center for the Arts! and The Art of Tapestry: Thread by Thread Durante Gallery

Nina Schlussel has over 24 years of experience.

Nina is a licensed Esthetician and Hair Stylist who specializes in Permanent Make-up.

Her passion is eye brows. Trained at: The Suncoast Academy of CA, Hair Fashion Focus, Vidal Sassoon, Tony and Guy and Dermalogica. SPARCC’S member

Ed Brickman April 8 through May 12, 2011 “Legal Forging” December 2 – images 16, 2010 created by light and textures revealed Enjoy visual Opening Reception | Thursday | December 2 | 5 -7 pm through thread as you view these two quality exhibition of Please rsvp to 941.383.2345 by November 30 for the Dec 2 reception.

artist from our region.

A selection of Ed’s work will be for sale to benefit the Longboat Key Center Receiving for the Arts photo entries: Monday, April 4 • 10-2 pm 54977

Please call to schedule a complimentary consultation or an appointment with Nina

Ed Brickman has been making jewelry since he was a teenager and has never lost his enthusiasm for the creative process. His work can be found in the permanent collections of the Newark Museum in Newark, New Jersey, and the Museum of Arts and Design in New York City. Ed has been teaching jewelry for many years at LBKCA. This is the first time Ed will be showcasing over 200 pieces from his collection. You’ll not want to miss this show!

LBK Garden Club in collaboration with LBKCA presents:

A Taste Of The Keys And Male Fashion Show Wednesday, April 13 • 5:30 – 8:30 pm

Ticket Price: $50.00

Cultural Media Room ‘Open Trunk’ Join Holiday us forSale anbyevening December 2 - 16, 2010

of fashion, food and 2 complimentary drinks to support the Garden Club Find that unique holiday gift for your loved ones made by Ringling College and the Center for the Arts students and alumni. You’ll find paintings, sculpture, jewelry, crafts, and much, much more!!

See LBK dignitaries model Brooks Brothers fashion Hours for the selected Sale: Monday through Friday, am to 4 pm restaurants and taste food from 129different Special Saturday hours!! from our Keys!

Saturday, December 4, 11 am to 3 pm & Saturday, December 11, 11 am to 3 pm

This is an event not to be missed!

Opening Reception and Sale | Thursday | December 2 | 5 -7 pm Please rsvp to 941.383.2345 by November 30 for the Dec 2 reception.

For ticket and information call 941.383.2345

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Open 7 Days a week • 941.388.3991 • St. Armands Circle • Sarasota

The Sarasota Opera’s regular season may have ended, but the company was alive with the sounds of music last week when it presented a celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Unification of Italy in a “risorgimento” (revival or awakening) concert. And, in his travels through the complete works of Verdi, Victor DeRenzi gave us an aural insight into the alternate versions of well-known operas that, in the evening opened with the Overture to “I vespri siciliani,” played by the wonderful musicians of the Sarasota Opera Orchestra, who were led by DeRenzi. Four excerpts from “I Lombardi,” one of the Verdi operas in this season’s repertoire, were followed by standout performances from tenors Rafael Davila, Steven Uliana and Bernard Holcomb, mezzo Sarah Larsen, bass-baritone Carlos Monzon and tenors Abla Lynn Hamza and Bethany Kiral.

The rarely heard “Mass for Rossini” came next and was positively startling in its fascinating early workings of the later and much more famous “Requiem.” Maria D’Amato (whom we heard as Mimi earlier in the season) sublimely sang the soprano solos with an equally exalted chorus inton-

6860 Longboat Drive S | Longboat Key, FL 34228 www.lbkca.ringling.edu | 941.383.2345 Hours: Monday – Friday | 9 am to 4 pm 46028

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THE SOCIAL OBSERVER

Black Tie

By STEPHANIE HANNUM BLACK TIE EDITOR

thursday MARCH 31, 2011

O EEvent feaattu

Cihralspm rG hen Inac ir nJno

| Girls Incorporated of Sarasota n County did it again! A recordbreaking crowd of 900 filled the Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota ballroom to be inspired at the 23rd annual Celebration Luncheon Tuesday, March 22.

This year’s theme, “Discover, Explore, Innovate,” focused on women in fields of innovation.

Some of the young girls impersonated Rosie the Riveter (World War II manufacturing); Joy Anderson (naturalist /author of “Born Free”); Elizabeth Arden (cosmetics); Amelia Earhart (American aviation pioneer and author); Clara Barton (founder

r

of American Red Cross); and Madame Curie (chemist famous for her work on radioactivity).

Chaired by mother-daughter team Georgina Clamage, Mary Pat Radford and Beth Bobb, the luncheon also honored “She Knows Where She’s Going” award winners Teri Hansen and Molly Jackson, Visionary Award winner Jean Cooper and Girl of the Year honoree Jillian Nixon. With that many people in a room, it’s bound to be a successful day, and that it was — Girls Inc raised more than $150,000 for STEM: Science, technology, engineering and math.

O ginO dtianngdinw new anS

nation

www.yourobserver.com

eleecletecdtebdy S byt e es s ur

innovation

The Observer

Guests had fun experimenting with their dessert

Caryl Kaplan and Judith Hofmann

The Jackson family: J.P., Caroline, David, Ansley, honoree Molly and Chip

Photos by Stephanie Hannum

Susan Brennan and Bev Fisher

Helen Goderis, honoree Jean Cooper and Suzanne Cooper

Co-Chairs Mary Pat Radford, Beth Bobb and Georgina Clamage

Matt Schulz and Heidi Weiler

Honoree Jillian N. and Stephania Feltz

Honoree Teri Hansen and Michael Saunders

Fran Cook and Cathy Hodge

Audry as Amelia Earhart and Angel as Clara Barton

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THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

COLUMN

black tie tales

+ Black Tie Affair Men Who Love To Cook

Asolo Repertory Theatre • 6 p.m. Sunday, April 10, Longboat Key Club Harbourside • Ticket $150 • Reservations Laura Wood 351-9010, Ext. 4712

by Molly Schechter | Social Editor

Cliff Roles

Sarasota Ballet Artistic Director Iain Webb, founder Jean Weidner and principal dancer Octavio Martin. Each male dancer presented Jean with a red rose at the dinner following the 20th anniversary performance.

+ Once a prima ballerina …

Jean Allenby Weidner’s appearance on stage has no doubt been welcomed with wild applause uncountable times. For sheer quantity of love and respect, however, her appearance in Dance of the Knights from “Romeo and Juliet,” by Kenneth MacMillan, at the Sarasota Ballet’s 20th anniversary gala March 25 must have set a record. Given that A.)

balletomanes are a passionate breed; B.) Sarasota is known for the enthusiasm of its audiences; C.) this was the first time that Jean has danced with the troupe that she founded two decades ago; and D.) her appearance on stage was a pretty well-kept secret … it was thrilling. Once a prima ballerina, always a prima ballerina. No other word for it — thrilling.

+ Hard core philanthropy …

It was the week that was with at least 16 fundraising events between Monday, March 21 and Sunday, March 27. The human services were particularly in evidence. Stalwart supporters, among them Gerri Aaron, Jewel Ash, Betty Schoenbaum and more appeared at all or most. Kudos – and whew! See photos in this week’s Black Tie and online at www.YourObserver.com.

Sarasota and Bradenton’s most prominent business and community men are putting on their chef’s hats and showcasing their culinary specialties and skills for this one-of-a-kind, casual new event. The dinner will be a buffet, with entrées prepared by the guest chefs, and there’s much more to delight you, including a special cooking demonstration by host chef Giuliano Hazan, an old-fashioned auction of cakes, live music and a souvenir cookbook. The $150 ticket also includes an open bar. Margaret Wise and BT co-chair; Longboat Key Club Food and Beverage Director Bob Weil and Director of Sales and Marketing Mary Kay Ryan head up the team for sponsor Longboat Key Club.

+ ‘My turn’ for Gerri Aaron

She was busy last week honoring others. On April 3, at Michael’s On East, the American Jewish Committee will honor Gerri Aaron with its 2011 Human Relations Award. New this year: no keynote speaker. As AJC Regional Director Brian Lipton put it, Molly Schechter “With these three great Gerri Aaron co-chairs, Teri Hansen, Betty Schoenbaum and Dr. Larry Thompson, who needs one?” The honoree’s kids are all coming to the event: daughters Alison Aaron and her new husband, Howard Madsen, from Ship Bottom, N.J.; Erika Aaron, from Philadelphia; and her sons Jonah Aaron and Jim Aaron, from Dallas, Judson Aaron, from Philadelphia, and Ken Aaron, from Langhorne, Penn. For reservations call 365-4995 or liptonb@ajc.org.

Molly Schechter

Back: Terry McGannon, Terrence McKee, Bill Wise, Scott Anderson, Howard Rooks, Tom Charters, George Adley, Rick Thie, Todd Horiuchi and Darrell Huntley; Middle: Robert Smithson, Jack Gibson, John Currie and Gary Sweetman; Front: Giuliano Hazan, Robert Plunket. Not shown: Bob Bartner, Allen Carlson, Bob Coppenrath, Brian Hersh, Brad Lerner, Jeff Sedacca, Dean Sutherland and Josh Wagy.

+ Tidbits

Places to go … from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, April 6, at the Paper Tree, 1931 S. Osprey, for the Sarasota debut of the spring collection of Diana E. Kelly shoes, plus McLeod 9 custom frames … 1658 Main St. next to Lan restaurant from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday, April 2 for the grand opening of the late-night lounge Pangea, the newest venture of Brad Coburn and Lan Bradeen … People to see … Longboat Key’s leading men on the runway to benefit the Longboat Key Garden Club and the Longboat Key Center for the Arts, a Division of Ringling College of Art and Design, in “A Taste of the Key and Male Fashion

Show” at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 13, at the Arts Center. 6860 Longboat Drive S., Longboat Key. Models include Town Manager Bruce St. Denis, Commissioners Jim Brown, Bob Siekmann, Phillip Younger, and Police Chief Al Hogle. Restaurants include the Longboat Key Club, Mar Vista, Sun House and more. Tickets $50 from Barb Kerwin, 383-0772, or Susan Landau, 383-8030 … Kisses, wishes and good luck … to Paulette Blair, who left Sarasota for M.D. Anderson, in Houston, the day after the Glitz at the Ritz luncheon, founded by her and co-chaired this year by her daughter, Michelle Crabtree, and her son-inlaw, Dale Woodling ...

Community starts with an act Unforgettable people come in all shapes and sizes.

Ed Roberts was an avid musician, playing the trumpet, french horn and piano. A successful stock investor from Illinois, he was raised by his single mother, Kathryn,

together

we can...

when his father died. In 2009, Ed left an endowment of more than $15 million to the Community Foundation that will provide grants for the many causes he cared about.

Single moms like Kathryn will have access to more adult learner scholarships and new programs.

Community colleges will receive grants to expand their reach to underserved students. Best of all, Ed and his advisors trusted us enough to leave a portion of his gift open-ended for new or emerging needs. This modest, music loving man’s legacy will affect future generations in a multitude of ways.

In partnering with us, Ed found peace of mind, knowing that we will honor his wishes exactly as he intended.

So can you. you. Your local community foundations work together to make charitable dreams come true.

30 Y E A R S 941.955.3000 | www.CFSarasota.org 54949

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THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

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13B

CAMERA READY

The Firefly Gala

Forty Carrots Family Center | Saturday, March 26 The Concession Golf Club

Dorothy and Michael Thomas with Nancy Riney

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Michael and Julie Dooley with Luis and Michelle Toro

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John Colton and Michele Van Dendooren

Jamie Becker and Chairwoman Ariane Dart

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Tax laws are complex and subject to change. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Smith Barney Financial Tax laws are complex and subject to change. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, its affiliates and Morgan Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. This material was not intended or written to be used for the purpose of avoiding tax penalties Stanley Smith Barney Financial Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. This material was not intended that may be imposed on the taxpayer. Individuals are urged to consult their personal tax or legal advisors to understand the tax and related used for described the purpose of avoiding tax penalties that may be imposed on the taxpayer. consequences of or anywritten actions to or be investments herein.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

CAMERA READY

Sarasota Ballet 20th Anniversary Gala Sarasota Ballet | Friday, March 25 | FSU Center for the Performing Arts

Photos by Stephanie Hannum

Irv and Marilyn Naiditch with Jewel and Mike Ash

Kay Delaney with Jim and Pat Maguire

Dr. Sid Katz and Co-Chairwoman Elaine Keating

Immerse Yourself

Co-Chairwoman Sydney Goldstein and Gene Noble

SFF20 54960

11

Honoree Jean Weidner and CoChairwoman Hillary Steele

Dr. Ken Pfahler and his wife, CoChairwoman Chris

Sam Davidson and Erin Buchanan

Sarasota

Film Festival

April 7-17, 2011 Opening Night Film & Party Presenting: Page One: A Year Inside the NY Times Friday, April 8 Red Carpet 6:00 PM, Film 7:00PM Party 9:00PM - 11:00PM Sarasota Opera House Director Andrew Rossi and Media Desk Reporters David Carr and Brian Stelter Attending

Filmmaker Tribute

Honoring Christopher Plummer, Geena Davis & Sarah Green Saturday, April 16 Doors at 6:00PM, Curtain at 7:00PM Sarasota Opera House

Tickets On Sale Now! Box Office located inside Regal Hollywood 20 1993 Main Street, Sarasota. 941.366.6200

SarasotaFilmFestival.com Design Courtesy of Bluescape Creative, LLC Illustration Courtesy of Vince Fraser

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Glitz at the Ritz-Carlton — Schoenbaum Humanitarian Award Luncheon The Salvation Army of Sarasota | Monday, March 21 The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota

Co-Chairs Michelle Crabtree and Dale Woodling

Leslie Glass and Lisi Brannen

Honorees Diane and Bob Roskamp with Maj. Donna Murphy

Ike and Emile Leighty

Garfield Beckstead and Rich Louis

Don and Paulette Blair with Maj. Phillip Murphy

Photos by Molly Schechter

FINAL DRAWING THIS WEEK

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New displays of Murphy Beds, Custom Closets, Home Offices, Media Centers, Garage Systems and Utility Storage.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

CAMERA READY

Jeff and Donna Lenobel

Lisa Tiedgen, John Weller and Meredith Garofalo

Tennis and Art on the Bay

Sarasota Open Foundation | Friday, March 25 | Sea Fair Sandy and Michael Albano with Sheryl Vieira

Photos by Molly Schechter

Co-Chairs Ben and Gail Klein

Celebrity Chefs & Wine Tasting

Jewish Family & Children’s Service of Sarasota, Manatee, Inc. | Tuesday, March 23 | Longboat Key Club and Resort The Longboat Key Club team: Matt Walters, Chloe Drapkin and Bob Weil

Barry and Suzy Benjamin

Fran and David Lambert

Photos by Stephanie Hannum

Bill, Sarah, Elisha and Linda Robertson

Join us for a mythical evening

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CAMERA READY

‘Element Au’ Preview Party

YMCA Foundation of Sarasota Thursday, March 24 | Saks Fifth Avenue

Dan Long and Susan Kretz

Photos by Stephanie Hannum

Alexandra Albrecht, Kameron Partridge, Debbie Partridge and Maureen Fasoil

Couture in the Courtyard

Photos by Molly Schechter

Jeanie Kirkpatrick, Chairwoman Susan Wilcox and Bill Blalock

Donna Simmons and Denise Mei

Debbie Morrish and Tammy Falkner

Dale Berkowitz and Karin Gustafson

Exciting Autumn Itineraries Now Feature New Lower Fares in Nearly Every Category!

Photo courtesy of Crystal Cruises

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South Florida Museum Monday, March 21 South Florida Museum

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Remodeling, adding on, or building a new home?

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CAMERA READY

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Lee Peterson, Susan Adams and her husband, Diamond Award honoree Keith Adams, and Heart of Gold honoree Ann Hartka

Diamonds in the Rough Luncheon

Sunshine From Darkness | Thursday, March 24 | Michael’s On East

Linda A. Page R Av en ail tal ab s le

Pe Sal nd e ing

Featuring Sarasota’s Finest Properties

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Jennifer Archangeli and Nancy McCarty

FURNISHED FORMER MODEL 3/3 - heated pool/spa, outdoor kitchen. Crown molding, granite counters, Chef’s kitchen with 6 burner gas cook top. New A/C, new paint inside & out. Seller will consider financing. $559,000

Diane Kreisman and Chairwoman Emily Walsh Parry

Beau Ciel New Price – 3134 s.f. “C” floor plan.

Exquisite finishes and wonderful design and with separate family and living rooms both with water views. Wet bar, wood floors – gorgeous! $1,299,000

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Elaine Meshad, guest speaker Linda Larsen and Pat Knippers

Go Boating! Have Fun!

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Boat Rentals Available at Cannons Marina

bedroom townhome, with elevator, on this idyllic private island paradise. Sophisticated yet casual contemporary and beautifully finished. Tennis, Clubhouse, Pool, etc. $525,000

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THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

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19B

Happy Endings Begin at Happy Endings Begin at Happy Endings Begin at Happy Endings Begin at Glasser/Schoenbaum Glasser/Schoenbaum Happy Endings Begin at Glasser/Schoenbaum Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center Human Services Center Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Human Services Services Center Center Human Services Center

Photos by Molly Schechter

Anne Brozoskie with honoree Dr. Leonard Schwartzbaum and his wife, Judy

16th annual Gala Honoring Dr. Leonard Schwartzbaum Chabad of Sarasota | Thursday, March 24 | Michael’s On East

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Marsha and Marvin Frank

Rabbi Shifrin, Rabbi Steinmetz and Kirk Weisman

Co-Chairs Anne and Barry Stein

Observe

what you are missing...

Human Services Center. They serve 11,000 clients a month.

The agencies involved these success stories areclients among the Human Services Center.

They serve 11,000 clients a month.

17 resident atcan Sarasota’s remarkable Glasser/Schoenbaum The agencies focusintheir energies on helping 17 resident at Sarasota’s remarkable Glasser/Schoenbaum canCenter. focus on helping Human Services They serve 11,000 clients a month.

The agencies involved intheir these success stories areclients among the because the Center takes careenergies of their space requirements at Human Services Center.

They serve 11,000 clients a month. because the Center takes care of their space requirements at The agencies can focus their energies on helping clients 17 resident at Sarasota’s remarkable Glasser/Schoenbaum virtually no cost, only a small stipend towards operating and The agencies can focus their energies on helping clients virtually Services no only a small towards operating and because thecost, Center takes carestipend of their spaceclients requirements at Human Center.

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The Center’s goal isfor thepeople agencies pay even less soYou they can by making aforthe donation inwho anytoamount, presently or maintenance.

The Center’s goal is for the agencies to pay even less so they help by making a donation in any amount, presently or can do even more for the people who need their help.

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Your oneingift to Glasser/Schoenbaum can help making donation any amount, or on apart of our campus.

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It’spresently hard toYou as a bequest, and there are opportunities to put your name benefits all our agencies and allintheir clients.

It’spresently hard on part our campus.

Your one gift to Glasser/Schoenbaum can helpof making a donation any amount, imagine aby more productive donation and we thank youtoforor on part of our campus.

Your one gift to Glasser/Schoenbaum imagine a more productive donation we thank you benefits all our agencies and all their and clients.

It’syour hard tofor as a bequest, there are opportunities to put name considering it. and benefits all our agencies and all their clients.

It’s hard considering it. campus. imagine more productive and we thank youtofor on part ofa our Yourdonation one gift to Glasser/Schoenbaum imagine a more productive donation we thank youtofor considering it. agencies benefits all our and all their and clients.

It’s hard Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center considering it. productive imagine a more weJ-,thank you for 1750donation 17th St., and Bldg.

Sarasota, FL 34234 Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center considering it. Glasser/Schoenbaum 941-365-4545 www.gs-humanservices.org 1750 17th St.,•Bldg.

J-, Sarasota, FL 34234 Human Services Center

More than just

bOW tiES & bALLgOWNS!

54829

Local News that’s

LOCAL NEWS! YourObserver.com

Jennifer entered a First Step program the Jennifer Firstpregnant.

Step program first time entered addictedaand After the first time addicted and pregnant.

After the completing it, paina medication prescribed Jennifer entered First Step program completing it, pain medication prescribed post dental work led to pregnant. aStep relapse.

But the Jennifer entered a and First program first time addicted After post dental work led to a relapse.

But she did not give up.

She received a first time addicted pregnant.

After completing it, pain and medication prescribed Jennifer entered a First Step program she did not give up.

She received aStepthe new case plan and entered a First completing pain medication prescribed post dental it, work led to a relapse.

But first time addicted and pregnant.

After new case and a FirstBut Outpatient Program at Glasser/ postdid dental work ledentered tothe a received relapse. she notplan give up.

She aStep completing it, pain medication prescribed Outpatient Program atNow the Glasser/ Schoenbaum Center. she hasaStep she did notplan give up.entered She received new case and a First post dentaland work led toNow a relapse.

But Schoenbaum Center. she has graduated for the first time, Jennifer new case plan and entered a First Step Outpatient Program at the Glasser/ she did not give up.

She received a graduated and for the first Jennifer and her children live under the same Outpatient Program at the time, Glasser/ Schoenbaum Center.

Now she has new case plan and entered the a First Step and her children roof.

Schoenbaum Now she same has graduated andCenter. forlive theunder first time, Jennifer Outpatient Program at the Glasser/ roof. graduated and forlive theunder first time, Jennifer and her children the same Schoenbaum Center. Now she has and her children live under the same roof. graduated and for the first time, Jennifer roof. and her children live under the same roof.

“I was told I was having one “I was I was having one boy andtold it turned out to be boy and ittwo turned out early” to be two girls, months “I was told I was having one girls, two months early” istwo Kenani Kekahuna’s story.

“I was told I was having one boy and it turned out to be is Kenani Kekahuna’s story.

Healthy was there boy andStart ittwo turned out to be two girls, months early” “I was told I was having one Healthy Start was there to help the morning after two girls, two months early” is Kenani Kekahuna’s story. boy andthe it turned outafter to be to help morning their birthStart and stayed with is Kenani Kekahuna’s story.

Healthy was there two girls, two months early” their birth and stayed with the family via home visits, Healthy Start was there to help the morning after is Kenani Kekahuna’s story. the family via home visits, referrals and developmental to help the morning their birth and stayedafter with Healthy Start was there referrals and developmental checks to make sure the twins theirfamily birth and stayedvisits, with the via home to help to themake morning after checks sure the were on track.

Suffering the family viadevelopmental home visits,twins referrals and their birth and stayed with were ontotrack.

Suffering from post partum depression, referrals and developmental checks make sure the twins the family via home visits, partum depression, Kenani phoned her case worker almost daily;from whenpost calls Suffering slowed checks totrack. make sure theand twins were onthe referrals and developmental Kenani phoned her case worker almost daily; when the calls slowed and she was asked if things were OK, Kenani could happily reply,Suffering “Things are were on track. from post partum depression, checks to make the twins she wasbetter askednow.” ifher things OK,almost Kenanidaily; could happily reply,sure “Things are getting from post depression, Kenani phoned casewere worker when thepartum calls slowed and were on track. Suffering getting better now.”

Kenani casewere worker the calls she wasphoned asked ifher things OK,almost Kenanidaily; couldwhen happily reply,slowed “Thingsand are from post partum depression, McClendon’s home was she wasbetter askednow.” if things were OK, KenaniMildred could happily reply, “Things are getting Kenani phoned her case worker almost daily; when the calls slowed Mildred homeand was the spirit McClendon’s center of her large, exgetting better now.” she was asked if things were OK, Kenani the could happily reply, are spirit centerfor ofover her“Things large, extended family 40 years.

Mildred McClendon’s home was getting better now.” tended family 40 years.

While she wasfor making payments Mildred McClendon’s home was the spirit center ofover her large, exWhile she was making payments on small loan, the theher spirit center ofover her lender large, extended family for 40 years.

Mildred McClendon’s home was on her small loan, the McClenlender filed toshe foreclose.

The tended family for over 40 years.

While was making payments the spirit center of her large, exfiled to foreclose.

The dons came toloan, Gulfcoast Legal While she was making payments on her small the McClenlender tended family for over 40 years. dons came Gulfcoast Legal services for to help.

The on her small loan, theattorneys lender filed to foreclose.

The McClenWhile she was making payments services for help.

The attorneys at Gulfcoast Legal Services got filed to foreclose.

The McClendons came to Gulfcoast Legal onGulfcoast her small loan, the lendergot at Legal Services the foreclosure action dismissed dons came Gulfcoast Legal services for to help.

The attorneys filedforeclosure to foreclose.

The McClenthe action dismissed and brought an action on Mrs. McClendon’s behalf redress the services fortohelp.

The attorneys at Gulfcoast Legal Services got donsbehalf came to to redress Gulfcoast Legal and brought an action on Mrs. McClendon’s the lender’s violations of several consumer protection laws.

The lawsuit should at Gulfcoast Legal Services got the foreclosure action dismissed services for help.

The attorneys lender’s of several consumer protection The lawsuit should solve herviolations problems with theMrs. lender for good shelaws. will not have to worry theso foreclosure action dismissed and brought an action on McClendon’s behalf to redress the at Gulfcoast Legal Services got solve her problems theMrs. lender for good sobehalf shelaws. will not about them taking her family home away ever again. and brought an action on McClendon’s to redress theto worry lender’s violations ofwith several consumer protection Thehave lawsuit should the foreclosure action dismissed about them taking of her family home for away ever lender’s violations several consumer protection Thehave lawsuit should solve her problems with the lender good soagain. shelaws. will not to worry and brought an action on Mrs. McClendon’s behalf to redress the solve her problems withfamily the lender good soagain. she will not have to worry about them taking her home for away ever lender’s violations involved of several consumer protection laws.are The among lawsuit should Thethem agencies these success stories the about taking her familyin home away ever again. solve her problemsinvolved with the lender for success good so stories she will are not have to worry The agencies in these among the 17 resident at Sarasota’s remarkable Glasser/Schoenbaum about them taking her family home away ever again.

17 resident at involved Sarasota’s remarkable The agencies in these successGlasser/Schoenbaum stories are among the

www.gs-humanservices.org This941-365-4545 communication underwritten

by Sam andFL Sally Shapiro 1750 17this graciously St., •Bldg.

J-, Sarasota, 34234 Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center This941-365-4545 communication is graciously underwritten by Sam and Sally Shapiro • www.gs-humanservices.org 1750 17th St., Bldg. J-, Sarasota, FL 34234 Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center • www.gs-humanservices.org This941-365-4545 communication is graciously underwritten by Sam and Sally Shapiro 1750 17th St., Bldg. J-, Sarasota, FL 34234 This communication is graciously underwritten by Sam and Sally Shapiro 941-365-4545 • www.gs-humanservices.org

49656

49656

You. Your Neighbors. Your Neighborhood.

This communication is graciously underwritten by Sam and Sally Shapiro

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Ted Boyer has won seven Key Club golf championships. 10C.

Bay Isles A four-bedroom home sells for $1.65 million.

THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

290 Washington - RE photo

KEY PLAYERS

Harvey Golombek enjoys playing the drum.

Timmy Karro keeps the beat.

Feel the Rhythm

Photos by Dora Walters

By Dora Walters | Senior Editor

Don Scaletta performs.

David Pruyn

Marion Walker and Barb Anderson

“Feel the Beat” was the theme of the latest Sounds of Music concert held March 22, at the Longboat Key Center for the Arts, a Division of Ringling College of Art and Design. And it certainly didn’t take long for the audience to get into a groove.

After the band’s spirited rendition of the bossa nova and the samba, percussionist Scott Blum invited the audience to participate. He passed out hand-held percussion instruments made out of gourds, seedpods and metal clangers from countries around the world. Several African drums of varying sizes were also placed near the stage.

Blum briefly described many of the hand-held instruments and demonstrated how they are played.

Urging the participants to imagine a sunrise and then the crescendo of a setting sun, he led the participants as they followed with rapt attention.

At the song’s conclusion there was a brief moment of silence, then a burst of applause from the audience.

After a brief intermission, Blum had an abundance of eager volunteers for the next song.

The season’s final jazz concert at the Arts Center will be “Shall We Dance” April 19. Blum will again be taking part, along with the Fuzion Dance Artists. Be prepared to learn some new moves.

Scott Blum demonstrates how to use the instruments.

Christine Bryenton connects with the audience.

2C

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

NEWS

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KEY REAL ESTATE

Bay Isles home sells for $1.65 million

By Robin Hartill | Community Editor

bedrooms and two bathrooms. Global Picture Services Inc. paid $400,000 in October 2001.

The Ontario corporation of 834564 Ontario Limited sold the home at 541 Harbor Point in Bay Isles Unit 1 to Thomas and Dolores Diener, of Venetia, Pa., for $1.65 million. Built in 1988, the 3,852-square-foot home has four bedrooms, four-and-a-half bathrooms and a swimming pool. It last sold for $2.5 million in February 2007.

The sale was the largest of 15 transactions recorded at the Sarasota and Manatee county courthouses during the week of March 14 through March 18 on Longboat, Lido, St. Armands and Bird keys. Of the week’s sales, nine occurred on Longboat Key, one of which was in Manatee County, while two each occurred on Lido, St. Armands and Bird keys. Three of the week’s sales were for $1 million or more.

Jungle Queen Way

Robert Rokop and Dianne MartinoReynolds, husband and wife, of Longboat Key, sold their home at 834 Jungle Queen Way to Richard Parr, of West Wickham, England, for $299,900. Built in 1962 and remodeled in 1988, the 1,346-square-foot home has two bedrooms and two bathrooms. It last sold for $225,000 in January 2001.

The Colony Beach & Tennis Resort

Players Club

Gerald and Catherine Sheridan, of Nashville, Tenn., sold Unit 101 at the Players Club IV, 1425 Gulf of Mexico Drive, to Dan and Mary Phelps, of Nashville, for $950,000. Built in 1983, the 2,370-square-foot home has three bedrooms and four bathrooms. It last sold for $425,000 in July 1986.

Winding Oaks

Kenneth Zuckerman, of North Kingston, R.I., and Debra Zuckerman, of Providence, R.I., individually and as successor co-trustees, and Northern Trust N.A., of Sarasota, as successor co-trustee, sold Unit 53 at Winding Oaks, 3408 Winding Oaks Drive, to David and Susan Gorin,

Rachel S. O’Hara

This home at 481 E. Royal Flamingo Drive has three bedrooms, three-and-a-half bathrooms, a swimming pool and 4,047 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.46 million. of McLean, Va., for $432,000. Built in 1988, the 2,013-square-foot unit has two bedrooms and two bathrooms. It sold for $282,500 in August 1991.

Beachplace

David and Joan Blum, of Bradenton, sold Unit 403 in Building 6 at Beachplace II, 1095 Gulf of Mexico Drive, to James Miller, 1075 Gulf of Mexico Drive, for $430,000. Built in 1981, the 1,503-square-foot unit has two bed-

rooms and two bathrooms. The Blums paid $185,000 for the unit in June 1991.

In Beachplace III, Global Picture Services Inc., a dissolved Florida corporation, for the purpose of winding up and liquidating its business and affairs, sold Unit 302 in Building 10 at 1065 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Patrick Canivet, who is listed as the corporation’s president on the warranty deed, for $311,000. Built in 1981, the 1,392-square-foot unit has two

A Delaware limited-liability company, 1620 Properties LLC, with a Buffalo, N.Y., address, purchased three units at the Colony Beach & Tennis Resort, 1620 Gulf of Mexico Drive. All units were built in 1973 and have 705 square feet of living space.

Steven Jaffe, of Englewood, N.J., sold Unit 105-S for $65,000. It last sold for $75,000 in May 1991.

Eric and Eugenie Sundquist, 3040 Grand Bay Blvd., and Christopher and Kristin Sundquist Wood, of Atlanta, sold Unit 145S for $60,000. It last sold for $120,000 in August 2005.

Stephen Thompson, of Glen Haven, Nova Scotia, sold Unit 145-N for $60,000. It last sold for $67,000 in December 1995.

Bird Key

Henry Hodgson and Elissa WyattHodgson, husband and wife, sold their home at 481 E. Royal Flamingo Drive

The Things You DON’T See Are The Most Important…

Location Change for April Meeting Only The Republican Club of Longboat Key will hold its Friday, April 8th luncheon meeting at:

Bird Key Yacht Club 301 Bird Key Drive 11:30 am to 1:30 pm Our speaker will be Jamie Miller, a Political Consultant who frequently has been called upon by Florida’s political reporters. He has been quoted in every major daily newspaper in the state and has been referred to as a “Veteran Florida Political Operative”.

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the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

NeWS

to Alexander Pursley, of Fort Wayne, Ind., for $1.46 million. Built in 1995, the 4,047-square-foot home has three bedrooms, three-and-a-half bathrooms and a swimming pool. It last sold for $2 million in January 2005.

Also on Bird Key, Ralph and Joan Cobb, of Sarasota, sold their home at 381 Bob White Drive to Steven Horton and his wife, Ann Russell-Horton, of Kirkland, Wash., for $995,000. Built in 2003, the 3,790-square-foot home has four bedrooms, three-and-a-half bathrooms and a swimming pool. It last sold for $1,175,000 in September 2006.

Lido Key

Robert and Georgia Buck, of Sarasota, sold their home at 184 Whittier Drive in Lido Beach Division A of the John Ringling Estates to Ronald and Mary Ellen Shapiro, of Cincinnati, for $1 million. Built in 1963, the 2,371-square-foot home has three bedrooms, two bathrooms and one half-bath. It last sold for $1.15 million in March 2008.

Also on Lido Key, Maureen Kennelly, of Saline, Mich., sold her half-interest in Unit B-210 at L’Elegance on Lido Beach, 1800 Benjamin Franklin Drive, to Dianne

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Bowden, of Indianapolis, for $410,000.

Built in 1996, the 1,700-square-foot unit has two bedrooms and two-and-a-half bathrooms. Bowden and Kennelly purchased the unit for $300,000 in February 1996.

St. Armands Key

Robert White and his wife, Mary Hilton, of St. Petersburg, sold Unit 53 at St. Armands Towers, 101 Ben Franklin Drive, to Christopher and Susan Greco, of Haverhill, Mass., for $635,000. Built in 1968, the 1,320-square-foot unit has two bedrooms and two bathrooms.

White and Hilton paid $300,000 for the unit in August 1999.

Edward Kestel, of Glendale, N.Y., sold Unit 16 at Embassy Villa condominium, 800 Blvd. of the Presidents, to Vicki Ogden for $245,000. Built in 1972, the 1,090-square-foot unit has two bedrooms and two bathrooms. It last sold for $280,000 in August 2010.

Visit our website to see a map of the real-estate transactions www.YourObserver.com

BUILDING PERMITS These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of March 18 through March 24, in order of dollar amounts. (GMD = Gulf of Mexico Drive) Address

Permit Applicant Amount

415 L’Ambiance Drive

Alteration

Watten Olanow

2295 GMD

Alteration

Sarah Di Stefano

$90,775

5921 Emerald Harbor Drive Alteration

Angelo Cayo

$85,000

415 L’Ambiance Drive

Alteration

Cheryl Loeffler, trustee

$67,840

521 Wedge Lane

Alteration

William Kreston

$37,100

584 Outrigger Lane

Alteration

Robert Guernsey Jr.

$27,444

5555 GMD

Alteration

Harold Gwatney

$20,000

3221 Bayou Way

Addition

Michael Ryan

$19,750

5757 GMD

Alteration

James Sherer

$16,677

775 Longboat Club Road

Alteration

Michael Foulkes

$15,350

1425 GMD

Alteration

Dennis Lutsky

$13,214

3808 GMD

Alteration

Thomas Smith

$12,154

2039 GMD

Alteration

David Murphy

$10,671

683-691 El Centro

Re-roof

John Mans

$10,100

521 Harbor Cay Drive

Alteration

Donn Winokur

$10,000

7140 Longboat Drive E.

Alteration

The Pink House Co. Ltd.

$9,637

767 St. Judes Drive N.

Re-roof

Gerald Anderson

$9,500

6670 GMD

Alteration

George Rauch

$9,267

350 GMD

Alteration

Mary Ruggles, trustee

$9,000

525 Yawl Lane

Re-roof

Chippings Folly LLC

$8,250

3808 GMD

Alteration

John Caviglia

$7,948

350 GMD

Alteration

William Hergenrader

$7,800

3330 GMD

Alteration

Kenneth Lehat

$4,500

561 Sloop Lane

Alteration

Jean Wagner

$4,240

2120 Harbourside Drive

Alteration

Henry Adomonis

$4,033

5461 GMD

Re-roof

Longboat Cove condominium $3,780

5135 GMD

Alteration

Tom McKenna

$3,650

3280 Bayou Road

Re-roof

Joseph Curl

$2,850

1125 Bogey Lane

Alteration

Beth Callans

$2,500

1125 Bogey Lane

Alteration

Beth Callans

$2,500

5210 GMD

Alteration

William Jones

$1,965

3447 Winding Oaks Drive

Addition

John Brown

$1,750

1125 GMD

Alteration

Katherine Barbera

5393 GMD

Alteration

Joseph Laico

$1,500

6030 GMD

Alteration

Linda Thorpe

$1,436

540 Bowsprit Lane

Alteration

Lillian Garcia, trustee

631 St. Judes Drive

Alteration

Frank Santilli

2929 GMD

6828 GMD

548 St. Judes Drive

551 Harbor Point Road

Temporary office Temporary event Temporary event Certificate of occupancy

$123,349

$1,744.50

$1,239.89

Venturecorp Properties

$0

Stephanie Claussen

$0

Continental Kitchens Inc.

$0

Mary Michels, trustee

n/a

54963

$800

4C

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

NEIGHBORHOOD

www.YourObserver.com

room with a view

ISLAND BENEFIT

Harry’s wine tasting centers on community

By Dora Walters | Senior Editor

Harry’s Continental Kitchens hosted a wine-tasting benefit for the Anna Maria Island Community Center March 23.

On April 2, the center’s annual fundraiser, “An Affaire To Remember,” will take place.

At the wine tasting, several items to be auctioned at the event were on display.

Emma Hand, Sara Hand, with SP Hand, and Joann Zumba, with Window Film Solutions Christian Olin, Pam Schwartz, Moira MacDonald and Rick Schwartz

Photos by Loren Mayo

Kym MacKenzie and Sonja Newton, with Holiday Inn Lido Beach

LLSA Chamber members enjoy networking event

By Loren Mayo | Staff Writer

On the seventh floor of the Holiday Inn Lido Beach, members of the Longboat Key, Lido Key, St. Armands Key Chamber of Commerce enjoyed post-work cocktails and snacks and took in the panoramic view during the latest Business After Hours event Thursday, March 24.

Left: David Robinson, with Window Film Solutions, and Harold and Chris Cullison, with Sandpiper Inn

Photos by Dora Walters

Rosalie Cameron and Martin MacKinnon

Rene Nielson and Mari Zevin

Michael Moulton

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COUntRY ClUB shORes – Best buy on lOngBOAt VIllAge - Key West style home COUntRY ClUB shORes – New construction LBK in this new 3200SF 4BR canal front home. well maintained overlooking the Bay and Intracoastal 4BR canal front home. Be the lucky owner of this A3929970 $995,000 Waterway A3934895 $800,000 incredible value. A3929975 $945,000

hARBOUR tOweRs - ClUB lOngBOAt - First floor walk out 3BR fur- sUttOn PlACe - Ground floor location w/ Beautifully remodeled Gulf front 2BR condo in nished condo within a tennis complex that feels like remodeled kitchen, Bay views, boat docks and pet friendly. A3928481 $300,000 remodeled mid-Key building. A3930426 $560,000 living at a resort. A3930517 $399,000

Contact me about my other available listings 440 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228 Office 941•383•7591 / Cell 928•3559

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CAseY keY - Walls of glass bring the sARABAnde PenthOUse - Come view one BAY FROnt lOt - Estate size w/100’ of water panoramic views right into view with great of the premier bay front condos located Sarasota’s front to build your dream home w/deeded beach acentertaining space. A3905034 $2,475,000 premier building. A3940572 $2,175,000 cess. A3937319 $1,975,000

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

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GOLDEN GATE POINT

5C

THE FOUNDERS CLUB

Beautiful LaBellasara with over 3100 SF of Marvelous Finishes & Lovely Bay and City Views! $2,190,000

Privately Positioned Family Home w/ over 4,800 SF of Custom Finishes and Wonderful Floor Plan. $1,199,000

THE FOUNDERS CLUB

Golf Cottage w/ over 4300 SF of Luxury Upgrades and Expansive Views of the 10th Fairway. $1,150,000

LONGBOAT KEY

LONGBOAT KEY

CASEY KEY

Very Impressive Conrad Beach Beauty Just Steps to the Beach. $1,195,000

Three Bedroom Island Getaway With Tranquil Bay Views and Boat Dock. $1,999,995

Gorgeous enProvence unit with 3 Bedrooms Plus office. Full Gulf Views, Generous Terraces and Private 2-car Garage. $2,990,000

LONGBOAT KEY

LONGBOAT KEY

Contemporary Bayfront Home on 2 Acres w/Boat Dock and Tennis Court $2,675,000

Completely updated Beachplace Unit with Wonderful Direct Gulf Views! $695,000

DOWNTOWN SARASOTA

Plaza 5 Points Penthouse With Amazing Views Across Downtown to the Gulf of Mexico! $2,495,000

LONGBOAT KEY

SIESTA KEY

DOWNTOWN BAYFRONT

Sparkling Contemporary Waterfront Home in Bay Isles w/ Great Boating! $2,349,000

Terrific Tessera 3 Bedroom Unit with Magnificent Views and Wrap Around Terraces. $1,595,000

Peacock Bay Estate w/ 5 En-Suite Bedrooms, Guest Suite, Superb Views and Unparalleled Architectural Finishes! $8,595,000

Distinctive homes presented by Cheryl Loeffler Today, it is not simply about creating a website or advertisement and waiting for buyers to find your listed property.

It is about developing mixed-media strategies and integrated partnerships that position our brand and your home ubiquitously throughout multiple print and digital platforms, providing more relevant levels of engagement for consumers to seek out your home and the services offered by Signature | Sotheby’s International Realty.

To learn more about our exclusive marketing program, please call Cheryl Loeffler at 941.302.9674.

Signature Sotheby’s Top Producing Agent 2010

Each office independently owned and operated

Signature 54659

Cheryl Loeffler | MBA, Realtor | 941.302.9674 | Cheryl.loeffler@SothebysRealty.com The Plaza at Five Points, 50 Central Avenue, Sarasota, 34236236 www.CherylLoeffler.com

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the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

NEIGHBORHOOD

www.YourObserver.com

winning combination

RELAXING AFTERNOON

Club Longboat tennis tournament is a hit

By Maria Amodio | Staff Writer

Nancy Hart connects with the ball.

Photos by Maria Amodio

The weather was perfect for Club Longboat’s annual mixed-team tennis tournament Thursday, March 24.

Residents enjoyed a day of friendly competition full of fun and laughter.

The blue team, led by Capt.

Andy Dzenitis, came in first place. The players on the blue team were Dzenitis, Marlies Black, Karen Etherington, Harbor Hall, Arnie Heltzer, Diane Graham, Charlie Resnick and Jeanette Snyder.

George Kelegher plays horseshoes.

Photos by Dora Walters

Bonnie Philpott

Whitney Beach residents play a variety of games

By Dora Walters | Senior Editor

The blue team came in first overall. Back row: Jeanette Snyder, Marlies Black, Karen Etherington, Arnie Heltzer, Charlie Resnick and Harbor Hall. Front row: Diane Graham and Andy Dzenitis.

Alan Ackerman keeps score of one of the games.

The weather was warm at the annual Whitney Beach Conservancy picnic March 16. Residents enjoyed playing horseshoes, darts, putting golf balls and doing the bean-bag toss, as well as relaxing at picnic tables.

Hot dogs were on the grill, and tables were laden with potato salad, baked beans and assorted side dishes. Desserts included an assortment of brownies and other cookies.

A scrapbook of Whitney Beach photos was available for browsing.

Luxury Knows no Limits

VISIT MY WEBSITE!

www.dougparks.com

The Ritz-Carlton Beach Residences

HoTel ResidenCe 1106 - BEST PRICE at The Ritz! Lovely views of Big Pass, marina, city skyline and a sliver of the Gulf from this charming 1Bd/1.5Ba $775,000 HoTel ResidenCe 1008 – Perfect pied-a-terre in the City. Spacious 1768 sq.ft. 1 Bd/1.5 Ba corner with Bay & City views.

Furnished $899,900 HoTel ResidenCe 1108 – Lovely 1 Bd/1.5 Ba Southeast location with custom designed kitchen and marble $1,150,000 flooring.

HoTel ResidenCe 1205 - 2 Bd/2Ba split plan with custom kitchen & master bath with beautiful Bay views. $1,350,000 HoTel ResidenCe 1408 - Gorgeous views of the marina, Bay and Big Pass from this corner residence with a spacious and open kitchen, 2Bd/2Ba. $1,395,000 HoTel ResidenCe 1102 - New Listing. Fabulous and rarely available 2Bd+den/3Ba with exquisite sunset, marina and city views. $1,425,000 ToweR ResidenCe 1106 – 3 Bd/3Ba Spacious corner residence open great room plan with views of Marina, City & Bay. Reduced $1,190,000 ToweR ResidenCe 804 – Beautifully appointed with many custom designed features including fireplace and built-ins.

Contract Pending $1,465,000 ToweR ResidenCe 603 – Be the first one to occupy this 3 Bd/3Ba split plan residence offering spectacular sunset views.

Contract Pending $1,549,000 ToweR ResidenCe 503 – Sunsets over the Bay and direct west views from this spacious 2990 sq. ft.

Furnished $1,595,000 residence.

ToweR ResidenCe 1103 – 3 Bd/3Ba with many custom built-ins and cabinetry with travertine flooring another

SOLD 373 S Washington Dr St Armands 81’ of wide canal, over $200K in renovations, 4BD/3BA, pool $1,695,000

101 Ben Franklin Dr #53 St Armands Towers S. Full Gulf views, custom renovations in 2006, one of a kind unit $635,000

REDUCED 1800 Ben Franklin Dr #608B L’Elegance Bay and city views, 2BD/2.5BA plus office/den, high ceilings, pet friendly $799,000

The Tower Residences at The Ritz-Carlton

101 Ben Franklin Dr #54 St Armands Towers S. Across from Lido Beach, 2 blocks to the Circle, 40’ balcony, pet friendly $387,000

The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton

gorgeous sunset location. $1,875,000 ToweR ResidenCe 1603 - Penthouse views from this 16th floor 3 Bd/3Ba featuring a gas fireplace with custom mantel. Fabulous sunsets views. $2,350,000 ToweR ResidenCe 802 - New listing. One-of-a-kind 3Bd/3Ba sophisticated residence with views of Big Pass, marina and city skyline $2,595,000 ToweR ResidenCe 1203 – Sophisticated 3 Bd/3Ba professionally designed by Sally Trout with numerous custom finishes. A MUST SEE! Reduced $2,695,000 BeaCH ResidenCe 303 – Rarely available perfect beachget-away 1 Bd/Den/2Ba. Enjoy sunset views and close proximity to special building amenities. $990,000 BeaCH ResidenCe 308 – One-of-a-kind 2259 sq.ft 1 Bd/ Den/2Ba over 1000 sq.ft terrace with private walk down to the pool area.

Furnished $1,500,000 BeaCH ResidenCe 707 – Exceptional value for 3055 sq.ft.

3 Bd/2.5 Ba open great room with very large eat-in kitchen views of City, Bay & Preserve. $1,500,000 BeaCH ResidenCe 706 - Never before lived in and recently finished with beautiful travertine flooring throughout & designer touches. Full Gulf & beach views. $2,069,000 BeaCH PH ResidenCe 1206 - Fabulous direct Gulf views with wraparound terrace with gas grill special interior finishes every detail expected in a PH residence. $3,000,000 BeaCH ResidenCe 1101 – Fantastic Gulf, City & Preserve views from two spacious terraces 4194 sq. ft. of gracious living space. $4,195,000 BeaCH PH ResidenCe 1208 – The largest Penthouse suite at 5286 sq.ft. with elegant interior finishes throughout… never before occupied. $5,250,000

Beth Afflebach & Joan Dickinson Cell: 941-737-1756

Cell: 941-914-0496

54816

Visit our office in the lobby of The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota 1111 Ritz-Carlton Drive • Sarasota, FL 34236 54958

11 Sunset Dr #205 Sunset Towers Downtown unit offers views of the Bay, Ringling Bridge and walking distance to Marina $225,000

Local 941.364.8884

www.SarasotaCondoHotels.com

SOLD 7908 Hampton Court University Park 3BD/2BA, maintenance free, split floor plan, vaulted ceilings, furnished $299,000

Toll Free 800.555.7784 •

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

www.YourObserver.com

7C

Coldwell Banker

®

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

Longboat Key, Beachplace I. $689,000 2/2 SHF#A3939863 Gary McKinstry 941-924-9000

PREVIEWS

Sarasota, Baywood Colony. $1,495,000 4/4.5/2 SHF#A3939118 Barbara Ackerman 941-924-9000

Longboat Key, Harbour Court. $1,200,000 4/3.5/2 SHF#A3940816 Judy Kepecz-Hays 941-924-9000

Longboat Key, Country Club Shores. $995,000 3/3/2 SHF#A3940406 Gabe/Charles Buky 941-924-9000

®

T H E I N T E R N AT I O N A L S I G N F O R L U X U RY Anna Maria Shore Acres $997,500 Gabe/Charles Buky, 941-924-9000 Prize the comfortable luxury of this metal-roofed 6BR/5+BA residence. SHF#A3938952 Holmes Beach $995,000 Gabe/Charles Buky, 941-924-9000 6BR/4BA 2 furn beach house units that can rent as a single house or two. SHF#A3913827 Anna Maria Island Club $649,900 Anita Boakes, 941-388-3966 Discover the way to this 2BR/2BA waterfront condo. Community amenities. SHF#A3940977

Bird/Lido Key

Sarasota, Lido Shores. $2,800,000 3/3.5/2 SHF#A3936777 Jo James 941-388-3966

Leverage our network of 3,500 sales offices in 50 countries for the results you expect

Harbour Oaks $549,000 Linda Weber, 941-924-9000 3Bdr updated villa lo- Serenoa $449,000 Linda Ann Remley, P.A., 941-388-3966 Warm & bright with cated directly on the LBK Club golf course. 2200 sqft. SHF#A3940430 appealing styling!. 4BR/3+BA home. Community amenities. SHF#A3935823 Seaplace V $529,000 Roger Pettingell, 941-924-9000 2BR/2BA turnkey fur- Condo On The Bay Tower II $409,000 K. Scott/B. Sigurdson, 941-388-3966 nished condo overlooking the Gulf, pool & clubhouse. SHF#A3934236 Location, lifestyle & full bay views! Minutes to St. Armands and the beach Grand Bay $499,000 Roger Pettingell, 941-924-9000 Follow your dream to SHF#A3940208 this distinctive 2BR/2BA waterfront condo. SHF#A3934884 Seaplace III $479,900 Angie Campbell, 941-924-9000 2BR/2B turnkey furn, Hudson Landings $399,000 Bruce Myer, 941-924-9000 Serene 2BR+Den, 2BA 2nd floor condo located near downtown on the Hudson Bayou. updated granite, 24” tile floors & fully remodeled bath SHF#A3925268 Windward Bay $449,000 Carolyn Donnelly, 941-924-9000 Million $ bayfront SHF#A3940967 lifestyle! Bay view from 3BR villa; boat dock and pool. SHF#A3939520

Beach Residences $2,499,000 Judy Kepecz-Hays, 941-924-9000 Stun- Buttonwood Harbour $409,000 Patrick DiPinto, 941-924-9000 Incredning 11 floor 3BR Gulf & Bay views. Beach Luxury defined by Ritz-Carlton. ible Value! Waterfront home site with canal views in Buttonwood Harbour.

SHF#A3927362 SHF#A3940507 Lido Harbour Towers $729,000 Inger Lill, 941-388-3966 Fabulous beach Seaplace $399,000 Lynne Koy, 941-924-9000 Tastefully updated 2 bedroom 1 bath furnished condominium with Gulf views. SHF#A3936833 front Condo. 2BR/2BA plus. Totally updated throughout. SHF#A3940038 Lido Harbour South $399,500 Lynn A. Luken, 941-388-3966 Enjoy Gulf Views Fairway Bay 2 $356,000 Linda Fara/Tom Fynes, 941-924-9000 Sample the comforts in this rewarding condo on waterfront site. 2 baths. SHF#A3940548 and gorgeous sunsets from this delightful 2BR/2BA condo. SHF#A3939763

Sapphire Shores $379,000 David Jennings, 941-388-3966 Enjoy this custom built 3BR/2+BA home with a large pool. Near downtown. SHF#A3940457 Cascades At Sarasota $355,000 Eric Caravello, 941-388-3966 Discover the versatility of this fenced 3BR/2BA home with pool. SHF#A3940993 Broadway Promenade $264,900 Martina Coppenrath, 941-924-9000 Explore the many charms of this hospitable 2BR/2BA condo. Elevators.

SHF#A3940696

Lido Regency $274,500 Angie Campbell, 941-924-9000 Upkeep is so easy Bay Harbour $349,999 Patrick DiPinto, 941-924-9000 Beautifully remodeled Broadway Promenade $234,900 Martina Coppenrath, 941-924-9000 2BR/2BA penthouse. Southern exposure and bay views. SHF#A3939247 in this very special condo on the beach with heated pool. SHF#A3941033 Choose this appealing 2BR/2BA condo. Elevators. Community swimming Seaplace $349,000 Roger Pettingell, 941-924-9000 Updated Gulf front get- pool. SHF#A3940946 Longboat Key away with direct greenbelt & Gulf and sunset views. SHF#A3933359 Crestwood Villas $119,000 Barbara Ackerman, 941-924-9000 Become the Longboat Key $8,450,000 Patrick DiPinto, 941-924-9000 Mediterranean- Sand Cay Condo $324,900 Lynne Koy, 941-924-9000 Beautifully updated proud owner of this tile-roofed 2BR/2BA condo. Walk-in closet. SHF#A3940906 2Bd/2Ba condo in a Gulf Front Community. SHF#A3940462 style Bay front estate. 5BR/5.3BA, Pool, dock & boat lift. SHF#A3938145 Bay Isles $2,249,000 Linda Weber, 941-924-9000 Boaters dream - custom First Longboat Harbour $317,000 Lynne Koy, 941-924-9000 Updated and 3800sf waterfront home w/pvt 100’ deep water dock. SHF#A3933263 tastefully furnished 2BR/2BA with partial bay views. SHF#A3940269

Manatee

Water Club $1,699,000 Barbara Ackerman, 941-924-9000 Achieve the gra- Longboat Harbour $299,900 Lynne Koy, 941-924-9000 2BR/2BA con- Harbour Landings $829,000 Carolyn Donnelly, 941-924-9000 Short Sale. cious living that comes with this exquisite 3BR/3BA condo. SHF#A3939856 do w/murals throughout, a gourmet kitchen with 3 ovens, SS appliances. 2002 custom 4BR/4BA home on bay with elevator, pool & dock. SHF#A3939782 Water Club I $1,450,000 Bruce Myer, 941-924-9000 Serene gulf & bay views SHF#A3929046 Lakewood Ranch $469,000 Lynn A. Luken, 941-388-3966 A truly wise purare yours from this beautiful 2BR/3BA penthouse. SHF#A3940177 Mainland Sarasota chase! This 3/2 home in a gated community with lake views. SHF#A3939266 Open Sun 1-4pm. 3351 Sabal Cove Ln, Longboat Key. $1,299,000 Judy Bel Mare Condo $335,000 Team Vitale, 941-388-3966 Delightful 2BR/2BA Sarasota $2,595,000 Gabe/Charles Buky, 941-924-9000 Let your dreams Kepecz-Hays, 941-924-9000 Architectural Masterpiece! 3456 sqft, 4BR plus lead the way & make this 10,127 sqft piece of paradise yours! SHF#A3934844 lakefront site condo. Many upgrades. Amezing ammenities. SHF#A3940285 office, & Bonus 3+ car garage. SHF#A3939593 Sanctuary IV $1,269,995 Barbara Ackerman, 941-924-9000 Amazing Gulf, Coral Cove $1,880,000 Louis Wery, 941-924-9000 Enjoy the charm of this Greens At El Conquistador $329,000 Mary Clarke, 941-388-3966 ComfortBay, City & Golf Course views. 7th flr. 3BR/3BA, 2 lg terraces SHF#A3939211 4BR/4BA with endless southern views of the bay. SHF#A3938814 able 2BR/2BA home w/pool. Mature plants, and Golf Course. SHF#A3940252

Longboat Key Towers $949,000 Judy Kepecz-Hays, 941-924-9000 Up- Sapphire Shores $1,199,000 Inna Snyder, 941-924-9000 Reward yourself Siesta Key dated island-side 11th flr 2BR w/sunrise & sunset views, oversized terr. with rich styling in this tile-roofed 4BR/4BA residence. SHF#A3935670 SHF#A3908426 Mcintyre Wilson & Potters $849,000 Linda Ann Remley, P.A., 941-388-3966 Tangerine Bay Club $850,000 Baskind Warren Team, 941-388-3966 Is- A wealth of comforts in this 4BR/3BA home with detached large guest cottage Siestas Bayside $775,000 Kathy Hoonhout, 941-388-3966 Canal front 3/2.

Completely remodeled. Close to beach and village. Short SL SHF#A3937943 land living at it’s best! Spacious 2BR+den/2+BA w/bay and lagoon views. SHF#A3938989 SHF#A3940736 Mandarin Park $799,900 Inna Snyder, 941-924-9000 Make happiness a pri- St. Armand’s Key Country Club Shores $679,000 Roger Pettingell, 941-924-9000 3BR/2BA ority in this tile-roofed 4BR/3BA residence. Garage. SHF#A3939718 home on deep water canal with seawall, pool/spa, & new guest bath. Saddle Creek $649,900 Louis Wery, 941-924-9000 4BR/4BA pool home perLido Beach $1,399,000 Patrick DiPinto, 941-924-9000 Location! Estate size SHF#A3932805 fect for family living. Gourmet kitchen & wood floors. SHF#A3933460 waterfront Double Lot. Dock and Lift. SHF#A3935851 Sea Gate Club $675,000 Barbara Ackerman, 941-924-9000 2BR/2BA Gulf Key Tower South $549,000 Barbara Ackerman, 941-924-9000 Renoview condo w/wood floors, bright white kitchen & large terrace. SHF#A3933691 vated & furn. 2BR/2BA condo w/balcony for outdoor dining & great views. Venice/Osprey/Nokomis Casa Del Mar $599,000 Judy Kepecz-Hays, 941-924-9000 Remodeled, Gulf SHF#A3934195 front 2nd flr vacation getaway or income producing rental. SHF#A3930725 Broadway Promenade $499,900 Martina Coppenrath, 941-924-9000 Southbay Yacht Club $649,000 Joe Boguszewski, PA, 941-388-3966 BeauCountry Club Shores $599,000 Roger Pettingell, 941-924-9000 Surrender Taste reigns in this rewarding 2BR/2BA condo. Community swimming pool. tiful updated 3BR/2+BA home with screened pool and secluded backyard. yourself to the charms of this fenced 3BR/2BA home. SHF#A3937601 SHF#A3936939 SHF#A3939731

941.924.9000 ❙ F L O R I D A M O V E S . C O M ©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.

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Residential ❙ Commercial ❙ Mortgage ❙ Rentals ❙ Corporate Relocation ❙ Closing Services

8C

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

HEALTH

www.YourObserver.com

AEROBIC GRANDMA Dr. Ancowitz shares cardiology insights

What is the difference between arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis ?

The difference is a matter of semantics; MOLLY both terms refer to SCHECHTER hardening of the arteries. The word atherosclerosis is of Greek origin; “athere” means wax, and “sclerosis” means hardening process. Arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis are terms that are often used interchangeably.

Please explain cholesterol.

Cholesterol is a waxy, fatty substance that is present in the cell walls of our body. It is manufactured in the liver. Another source of cholesterol is the food we eat.

Because cholesterol is insoluble, it travels through the blood bound to protein, hence the name lipoprotein. High-density lipoproteins (HDL) are the good kind.

HDL keeps cholesterol from building up in the walls of arteries. Low-density lipoproteins (LDL) are the ones that build up in the walls of arteries. Cholesterol control is a worthwhile objective, achievable by a diet of low-fat products, cholesterolfree products and sources of fiber, medication and exercise.

Please comment on high blood pressure and salt in the diet.

Lower salt intake can improve blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Slashing current salt intake from 10 grams of salt a day to one to two grams a day would save lives. The salt shaker is an offender but not the chief offender — processed foods are.

The food industry is gradually reducing the amount of sodium added to foods.

Pickled, cured, smoked and canned foods contain excessive amounts of salt. Bacon, hot dogs, potato chips and pretzels are also rich in salt. Salt substitutes and other flavorings and spices such as ginger, paprika, oregano, garlic, onion and curry don’t contain salt.

Can I avoid getting a stroke?

Stroke prevention is possible and likely.

A normal blood pressure is important in stroke prevention. Check your blood pressure frequently. High blood pressure, or hypertension, usually causes no symptoms. Your blood pressure can be checked by your physician. Pharmacies and local YMCAs often have blood-pressure machines you can use. Home blood-pressure monitors are becoming affordable. High blood pressure is a major risk factor in stroke that can be corrected.

Why is exercise important in stroke prevention?

Exercise helps control weight. Being overweight can produce diabetes and contribute to causing high blood pressure. Try to build up to walking a couple of miles three to four times a week. Exercise can contribute to a feeling of wellbeing due to the circulation of endorphins,

S aint C acchiotti,

PA, Direct: 941.38.SAINT (387-2468) Cell: 941.809.0787 Toll Free: 877.581.3444 SaintCacc@aol.com

Realtor®

Private & gated estate on 1.16 acres overlooking a vast expanse of Sarasota Bay. Epitomizing elegance, this residence offers 8,976 SF of every imaginable creature comfort. 2 docks w/lifts and 75’ heated bay front pool. $9,995,000

Does the incidence of stroke vary between men and women?

The female population carries a higher stroke risk than men, because women have a longer life expectancy.

Can you comment on irregular heartbeats and stroke?

Irregular heart rhythms, such as auricular fibrillation, are associated with about 20% of strokes. Medication to prevent clotting (such as Coumadin) is important in this condition to prevent stroke.

Are auricular fibrillation and atrial fibrillation the same or different conditions?

They are the same.

Can manipulation and compression around the neck cause stroke?

Hyperextension of the head, as in shampooing and chiropractic manipulation, can compromise arteries delivering blood to the brain and thereby cause strokes.

$2,895,000

Are we winning the war against arteriosclerosis?

Promising research is coming to fruition. Medication to raise levels of highdensity lipoproteins is on the way. Vaccines may be developed. Most important is greater public awareness about heart attack and stroke prevention. Yes, we are winning, but we have a long way to go.

Molly Schechter is an ACE-certified personal trainer with a specialty in older adult fitness plus YogaFit Instructor Training, SCF Yoga Fundamentals and Power Pilates™ Mat Certifications. She teaches classes at the Bayfront Park Recreation Center and the Longboat Key Club. E-mail her at aerobicgrandma@verizon.net.

Mrs.Rogers’

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

Neighborhood

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

DESIRABLE LOCATION ON LBK

Magnificent subdivided parcel on LBK with 4 buildable lots, approximately 1.95+/- acres. $3,400,000 Purchase an individual lot w/plans to begin construction on a beautiful 4,000+ SF home. $2,895,000 Purchase the individual lot & build to suit.$700,000

TASTEFULLY TKF

2BR/2BA condo w/water view. Tile floors, updated kit. w/granite counters, upgraded appliances, new windows, 4 pools, tennis, clubhouse, ex. rm.. & beachside cabana.

Dorothy Cook A3932923 $290,000

“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.”

GREAT OPPORTUNITY

to own in the “Village” on Longboat Key. Turn this into your dream home w/a little TLC, 4BR/2BA, large fenced backyard with room for a pool. Community boat launch, fishing pier & beach access. Teresia Bradford $299,000 #M5812424

SPACIOUS 2BR/2BA CORNER

w/outstanding view of Sarasota Bay. Updated kitchen, new A/C & water heater. W/D, TKF, clubhouse, 2 pools, 2 tennis courts, 2 boat marinas & beach access. Dorothy Cook #A3937833 $329,000

BAYFRONT LOT ON LONGBOAT KEY 280’ ON THE BAY

Gracious 102’ x 135’ lot located in Hideaway Bay. Private community with estate sized homes, tennis courts and nearby beach access. $1,250,000

ABSOLUTELY STUNNING 3BR/3BA

LONGBOAT KEy CLUB & RESORT

Island pool home w/finished bonus room, elevator, new kitchen, SS appl., granite counters & maple cabinets.

Wood deck, tropical landscaping, steps to the beach.

Teresia Bradford $499,000 #M5819230

JUST REDUCED

Car collector’s dream home with A/C garage to accommodate 16+/- cars, 8,900+ sq. ft., overlooking the Bay on over half acre. Endless possibilities await! $899,000

Surround yourself in luxury with fine dining, generous amenities and dramatic views of the Gulf, lagoon and golf course fairways with graciously appointed condominium/hotel suites. Great income potential!

Unit # Unit Type View Offered at 2607 D Two BR Gulf UNDER CONTRACT 3203 Club Suite Gulf $437,900

MEDITERRANEAN LUXURY

941.383.7591 (office) 941.284.7373 (mobile)

Follow me on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn!

annetterogers@michaelsaunders.com

Michael Saunders & Company, Licensed Real Estate Broker 440 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Longboat Key, FL 34228 • 941-383-7591

Michael Saunders & Company Licensed Real Estate Broker

Exclusive affiliate of Christie’s Great Estates & Leading Real Estate Companies of the World

54970

Access Virtual Tours & MLS at SaintCacchiotti.com

®

53677

BALLENTINE MANOR ESTATES

File photo

CONRAD BEACH

Legendary Service.

Remarkable Results.

Contact Annette today.

Custom residence located in Hideaway Bay featuring 5,400+ SF of luxurious living space, contemporary kitchen, wine room, pool, spa and private boat dock with lift.

Dr. Arthur Ancowitz

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

It’s Still

LOTS

EXCLUSIVE WATERFRONT ESTATE

What else can I do to prevent stroke?

Reduce your bad (LDL) cholesterol with diet, exercise and medication. Try to elevate your good (HDL) cholesterol. It keeps cholesterol from building up in the walls of arteries.

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

It takes a lifetime to become an experienced professional and only 5 minutes to realize you’re working with one!

HOMES

which are morphine-like substances produced by the brain. Exercise also serves as an outlet for tension. Centuries ago, the wise philosopher Plato said, “Lack of activity destroys the good condition of every human being, while movement and methodical exercise save it and preserve it.”

54133

A few months ago, this column featured a piece by Dr. Arthur Ancowitz, a retired cardiologist and Longboat Key resident, that dealt with heart attack and stroke with a focus on prevention. This month, Ancowitz answers questions on the topic.

on North LBK. Sailboat water with 40’ dock, davit & 13,000 lb. lift. 3BR/2.5BA & office, high ceilings and completely renovated! Huge pool, patio & walk to beach.

Jerry Cunningham/ Marta Altizer #A3935452 $799,624

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

NEWS

9C

www.YourObserver.com

#1

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

TOP SALES ASSOCIATE for Sarasota and Manatee Counties in 2009 REAL ESTATE 1 C O LRanked D W E L L the B Atop N K1% ER AGENT OO LL D DWWE EL LLin 1C C L BBAAN NKKEERRofAAGGEENNTT REPORTS ##1#Coldwell in Florida for 2009 Banker Associates Worldwide for Sarasota and Manatee Counties in 2009 in Florida for 2009 in Florida for 2009

The local Prudential Real Estate Companies, which include sister realty agencies Prudential Palms Realty and Prudential Lakewood Ranch Realty, announced the acquisition of Hunt/Realty Express on Main Street, in downtown Sarasota. The acquisition is Prudential’s seventh since it opened in 2002 in Sarasota.

“We are forging ahead with a growth plan that positions us as one of the region’s leading real-estate Sosso companies,” said Helen Sosso, president and CEO of Prudential Companies, in a prepared statement. “With the growth trend in Sarasota and the downtown marketplace, it’s essential to have a central location where the public can stop in and access the latest real-estate information.”

Prudential’s new Main Street location will reflect the real-estate industry’s shift toward online technologies, with on-site agents available to assist clients with online searches.

The new office will have a grand opening in mid-2011.

+ FL Realtors Association recognizes local agents The Florida Realtors Association presented the 2011 Florida Honor Society award to Re/Max Alliance Group agents Barry Grooms, Marie Avery and Sherry Richardson. Gerry Kenyon, of Kenyon Real Estate, and Women’s Council of Realtors 2011 Chapter President Paula KeeganBock, of Michael Saunders & Co., also received the honor.

BUSINESS OBSERVER

Ackerman Ackerman Ackerman

BARBARA BBAARRBBAARRAA

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

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. www.Johnsonestatelongboatkey.com $11,500,000

Segment Every Wednesday!

Warm and welcoming with 4600 SF, 5 BR, upper and lower master suites, wood floors, gourmet kitchen, & fireplace. Pool & outdoor entertainment area w/ large deck & private dock right on the Bay! $1,495,000

END

ING

Sleepy Lagoon – 100’ of Gulf Frontage

$ Beachplace III 695,000 Gorgeous Balinese inspired beach front home built 302 3rd Floor 2BR/2BA direct Gulf views in 2002 with 6 BR/6.5 BA, separate study and 2nd $ family room upstairs. Mahogany and Bamboo floors, Beachplace III 695,000 high Pecky Cypress ceilings, gourmet granite kitchen 304 - 3rd Floor 2BR/2BA direct Gulf views $ with breakfast bar. 2-car garage. 4,875,000

KEY TOWERS SOUTH - Direct Gulf Front INFt.G NDSq. 7th Floor 2BR/2BA $549,000 PE1,364 CRESTWOOD VILLAS – Sarasota Mainland G Ft. INSq. Maintenance Free 2BR/2BA $119,000 PEND1,206 $

RED ROCK TERRACE – Oyster Bay Vacant Lot Bellasara – Golden Gate Point Lot w/ House Plans $439,000 La Sparkling water views from this amazing 5,585SF Penthouse apartment with 4BR/5BA, private his & hers stud-

INCREDIBLE NEW PRICE $799,900

ies, wine cellar & separate tasting area, media room and GRAND BAY I – Longboat Key Bay Front 5th Floor 3BR/2.5B Southeast corner Open Bay & City views 9th Floor 3BR/3BA 2,550 Sq. Ft.$1,275,000 large terrace overlooking the Bay and downtown. Private $5,950,000 boat dock & 2 car garage.

PRI

FAIRWAY BAY - Longboat Key Townhouse 2BR/3BA 1,626 Sq. Ft. $539,000

CE R

EDU

CTIO

N

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 - 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 shutters, marble floors, full wine bar. $1,800,000

Sea Gate Club - Direct Gulf Front

Floor-to-ceiling glass frames the Beach and Sunsets from every SAVOY – Downtown & Bay Views in this 1,470 SF 2BR/2BA with higher ceilings, wood floors 9th Floor 3BR+Den/3.5BA 3,172 Sq. Ft. $1,985,000 room and 2 terraces. Great amentias and on-site management. Walk to shopping. WAS $675,000

Longboat Key – Boater’s Fantasy 3,435 SF home with 114 feet of DEEP water frontage!

Extra large rooms, with living area on one level and tons of ground floor play space. Covered 45x20 slip and Jet Ski dock included. $995,000

$

625,000

Lido Shores - Direct Gulf Front Palazzo Combines 200 ft. of seawalled Gulf front with private Dock and Beach access. This 7,415 SF residence built in 2003 has 5BR/8BA, exercise room, his and her bath & studies, 50 ft pool/spa & 5-car garage. $8,900,000

Water Club I - Gulf & Bay Views Marina Tower - Downtown Bayfront Longboat Key - Bay Boating & Beach 6th floor 3 bedroom, 3 full bath apartment with beautiful wa- Extraordinary 5,800 SF with 365˚ views, priv. elevator foyer, 4,700 SF waterfront showplace new in ’06 ter views, private elevator, 10 foot ceilings and two expansive 4BR/4.5BA + study, main & catering kitchens, home theatre with 4 BR+ study, fireplace, pool/spa, summer $ 2,250,000 kitchen, deep water dock, boat lift & jet ski area. terraces for viewing nightly sunsets. Gated community with & 4 parking spaces. $ Walk to beach.

1,795,000 excellent amenities. $1,699,000 Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate, LLC 941-387-1820 Direct

37328 54245

www.JennetteProperties.com

“Hot ProPerties”

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 $2,690,000 value has never looked better.

EP

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.

2,395,000

941-953-6000 941-359-3435

As seen on Sarasota’s

Indian Beach – Bay Front Luxury Mainland – Bay Front Retreat

SAL

Sanctuary III

LEASING & MANAGING HOMES & CONDOS Annual, Seasonal, Vacation

®

www.barbaraackerman.com

1,269,995 7th Floor 3BR/3BA Gulf, Bay & City views

The Chiles Restaurant Group announced that The Sandbar has won TheKnot.com’s “Best of Weddings Award” for the fifth year in a row, while the BeachHouse Restaurant received the honor for the fourth consecutive year. Brides and grooms who have worked with wedding professionals at various venues vote on the awards.

Both restaurants also earned the “Bride’s Choice Award” by ranking in the top 5% of Wedding Wire Network’s “Best Ceremony and Reception Site” category. The Wedding Wire Network, which consists of four wedding-planning websites, surveyed more than 750,000 newlyweds who voted on 20 wedding-service categories.

— Robin Hartill

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 LIS TIN www.barbaraackerman.com G

Sanctuary IV

+ Sandbar, BeachHouse get wedding website recognition

REALTOR®

●

●

201 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Suite #1, Longboat Key

800-910-8728 Toll-Free

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

54658

+ Prudential Real Estate to open new Main Street office

10C

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

UPCOMING TOURNAMENTS

Ted Boyer Ted Boyer, 79, was not always a golfer. He used to play baseball, but he switched to golf 50 years ago. Since then he has racked up many achievements both at the Longboat Key Club and in Elgin, Ill. Boyer has been coming to Longboat Key since 1979 and has been a member of the Key Club for 20 years. He plays golf regularly, usually on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, with the Friars, a group of men at the club who enjoy playing golf together. Boyer recently won the club’s championship for the seventh time.

+ Public Tennis Center to host senior doubles play The Longboat Key Public Tennis Center will host its fifth annual Fidelity Investment Senior Doubles Tournament from April 14 to April 18.

The USTA-sanctioned tournament will once again be sponsored by Fidelity Insurance. This USTA tournament is a smaller tournament than the one held in December and is for doubles matches only.

There will be two divisions for men (ages 60 and 70) and two divisions for women (ages 55 and 65). In the past, 100 players have participated in the tournament, and the tennis center believes that many will play again this year. The tournament also has a cash prize incentive.

The final day to sign up for the tournament is April 11. For more information, call the tennis center at 316-8367. Cost is $40 per player for mail-in entries; or $43.50 online at tennislink.usta.com.

+ Sarasota Open courts players to Longboat Key This year’s Sarasota Open tournament, April 23 through May 1, will feature some of the top tennis players in the world. The participating players will not be confirmed until April 7, but last year’s winner, Kei Nishikori, who is currently ranked 58th in the world, could be returning.

Local players will also have a chance to compete with the pros in

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

SPORTS

www.YourObserver.com

What are your strengths in golf?

The best part of my game is classified as consistency. I drive the ball straight; I’m a good putter; I’m fairly good out of the bunkers; and my chipping is pretty good, also.

What is so important about putting?

Putting is probably the major thing in the game of golf, because you use the putter more times than you use all of your other clubs combined, generally speaking — particularly the driver. You take the driver and you’re only going to use it maybe 18 times in a round of golf, but you’re going to use your putter 30 or possibly 40 times in a round of golf.

File photo

Jack Daly returns the ball during the 2010 Fidelity Investment Senior Doubles Tournament in April 2010. the Wild Card Tournament, which will take place April 8 through April 10.

The winner will get a wildcard entry into the qualifying round of the 2011 Sarasota Open.

Proceeds from pre-tournament events, including “Tennis Under the Stars” April 15 and the Players Party April 25, will go to the Sarasota Open Foundation, which benefits sports programs for underprivileged children.

Visit www.sarasotaopen.org for more information and ticket prices.

Rachel S. O’Hara

better) 167 times — I’m 79 years old.

I’ve had 11 holes-in-one. I won the club championship at Longboat Key Club seven times and also seven times at my club up North, which is the Elgin Country Club.

— Rachel S. O’Hara

What are your three biggest accomplishments?

I have three accomplishments that I’m very proud of. I’ve shot my age (or

Visit our website to see Boyer’s tips on putting. www.YourObserver.com

Do you know someone who would make a great

Athlete of the Week? E-mail rohara@yourobserver.com.

Recently Sold by

Talk to Tina Today - Longboat Key’s International Connection

Maureen Curtin

MauReen*

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. $499,000 NOW $475,000 TKF

On Your Side

54522

2110 Harbourside Dr., #546 Longboat Key Realty 6000 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, FL 34217

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

R E I D M U R P H Y

4401 Gulf of Mexico Drive, #703

PREsEnts...

Luxury on the Water

Call Reid Today! 941.232.3304 www.reidmurphy.com

1266 1st St., Suite 9, Sarasota, FL 34236

Maureen Curtin, Realtor 941.228.5121

®

*Sales figures may include those with a previous broker firm’s affiliation and may incorporate more than one calendar year.

54908

3395 Bayou Lane

MaureenDCurtin@gmail.com

3174 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key, FL 34228

Bob & Taube Levitt Selling Sarasota’s Select Properties

Realtors

(941) 356-0743

Selling SaraSota and the KeyS!

LONGBOAT HARBOR 2BR and 2 remodeled baths with new windows. TKF. Drastically Reduced! $299,500 WOW!!! PROMENADE PENTHOUSE 1003 3 BR/3.5BA with 2 terraces to enjoy views from sunrise to sunset. Updated kitchen, marbles baths, hallways, 2 walk-in closets in Master suite, fireplace, skylights.

Drastically Reduced! $999,000 BEACHPLACE 2/2 walk down, closest bldg. to 207, 302, 402, 503, 511, 601, 603, 705, pool, designer decorated, TKF. 707, 811, 901, 1001 Drastically Reduced! $599,000 Coldwell Banker Residential R. E. LLC. • 423 St. Armands Circle

www.sarasotarealestatefind.com

xsybarite@aol.com

54934

Promenade Sold to Date: 102, 204,

51240

developers Realty inc. Lic. R.e. Broker

54553

REGENT COURT GULFFRONT ESTATE – Architectural Gmarvel behind the gates of Longboat Key DIN Club. 150 feet directly on the gulf. $17,500,000 PEN GULFFRONT ESTATE – BEST BUY ON BEACH 1+ acres with a gated entrance and a private REDUCED $5,700,000 boardwalk to beach. Stunning Gulf, Beach and Sunset views!

BEACHFRONT OASIS – Private beach-side pool, hot tub and waterfall w/outdoor kitchen.

Custom home with fabulous foliage and beach sunset views.

REDUCED $5,100,000 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 bayside plus patio off master suite. Designer finishes + gated w/lush landscaping. $9,500,000 BAYPORT 3 BR direct beachfront corner - rarely available! Great tennis, beach & pool complex. $625,000 UNIVERSITY PARK – Incredible 3/3 upgraded home with numerous extras on amazingly landscaped private setting with exceptional outdoor patio/pool area.

REDUCED $429,000 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 BAYFRONT ESTATE – w/ approx. 100 ft. on the bay and canal along one side. $2,435,000 SABAL COVE – Spacious 4BR w/first level magnificent master suite. Exquisite lakefront! $1,795,000

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

www.YourObserver.com

Lynne Koy ◆

11C

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

SE OU H N 4 OPE N 1 – U S

941.387.1803 lkoy@coldwellbanker.com

Tour Lynne’s properties at

www.lynnekoy.com At The Chart House on Longboat Key

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. $3,895,000 www.1418JohnRinglingPkwy.com

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 $2,395,000

LoNGBoAT KeY ToWerS – Tastefully decorated w/spectacular views of Gulf & Bay from this updated 2BD/2BA, 11th floor condominium home w/2 covered parking spaces! www.603LBKTowers1104.com $1,295,000

Bird KeY - A spectacular, stunning, scenic sanctuary w/fabulous grounds & partial bay views. www.201Seagull.com $1,495,000

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

19

SALES YEAR TO DATE IN 2011 ◆ Global Marketing: NYtimes.com Birdkeynews.com Coldwellbanker.com Worldproperties.com Trulia.com LynneKoy.com Rightmoves.com Greatwaterfrontliving.com Realtor.com Zillow.com Follow me on Facebook / Twitter / LinkedIn / YouTube

You can search Lynne’s website in 13 languages – including English.

SeAPLACe – Once in a lifetime SeAPLACe - Direct Gulf views from opportunity! Direct Gulf and beach this stunning 2 BD/2BA furnished views! Penthouse Location! $799,000 condo w/covered parking. $529,000 www.1925Seaplace408.com

The BeACheS – Tastefully furnished 2 BD/2BA condominium with sweeping golf course views in a Gulf Front community behind the gates of the Longboat Key Club. www.775Beaches204.com $449,000

GrANd BAY - Bright and light 2 BD SeAPLACe - Beautifully updated /2 BA Penthouse with views of the and tastefully furnished 2BD/1BA Bay, Golf Course and Marina with two spacious terraces to enjoy sunrise and condominium with Gulf views. $399,000 sunset views. www.3070GrandBay644.com $499,000

SeAPLACe - Enjoy fabulous Southwest gulf views from this tastefully updated 2BD/2 BA penthouse level condominium. www.1925Seaplace406.com $449,000

SeAPLACe - Warm and inviting LoNGBoAT hArBoUr – 2BD/2BA 2BD/2BA condominium home that is fully furnished with beautiful bay fully furnished, light and bright and views and deeded beach access. ready for you to move right in. $317,000 www.1945Seaplace203.com $349,000

SeAPLACe - Enjoy tranquil garden views from this 2BR/2BA 3rd floor residence w/light wood floors, plush carpet and newer tile. www.1935Seaplace302.com $300,000

54199

◆

12C

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

SPORTS

www.YourObserver.com

tennis tradition

FABuLOus reAL esTATe OppOrTuniTies

Longboat Key, Florida

Longboat Key, Florida

Beachfront with 1.4+ Acres

On The Beach at L'Ambiance

Nestled among the native Florida palm and pine trees is truly one of the best beachfront estate parcels available on Longboat Key. This magnificent, unspoiled 1.4+ acre beachfront estate with 110 feet on the Gulf of Mexico and 580 feet from beachfront to entrance has that rare "Old Florida" ambiance with gorgeous views. Four charming income producing cottages are scattered throughout the grounds. MLS A3925019.

Beautiful condominium with lots of light and stunning 270 degree, unobstructed views of the Beach, Bay, St. Armands and all the way to downtown Sarasota. This elegant residence has custom cabinetry, lighting, gorgeous floors and exquisite details throughout. The Areca floor plan is wrapped in floor to ceiling windows and includes 700' of wrap terrace to take in all those stunning views. MLS A3935483.

$3,895,000

$1,595,000

Photos by Dora Walters

Tennis pro Dave Sparks announced he will retire at the end of the year.

Tennis Center honors captains at annual party

By Dora Walters | Senior Editor

Gorgeous, direct bay views from Fairway Bay. Beautifully, turnkey furnished, and updated with 1,440 sq. ft. $425,000

Beautiful bay front estate property with additional buildable lot.

Property is 1.2+ acres with 131’ on the bay. $1,995,000

This is a Boater’s paradise w/196’ of deep-water seawall within one of the most prestigious communities on Longboat Key. $1,195,000

Gorgeous views from this 15th floor, 3 BR, 3575 sq. ft. condominium at the Sarasota Ritz-Carlton. $1,995,000

Members of the Longboat Public Tennis Center gathered March 22 for the annual captains party, but there was a surprise. After presenting awards to the captains, tennis pro Dave Sparks announced he will retire at the end of the year. Sparks has been at the Tennis Center since it opened in 1998. He assured the members that he’ll be around, but did not reveal future plans.

Captain of the Year Awards went to Bill Vancellete and Sandy Schonhoff.

George Heitler, 95, was recognized as the center’s oldest player. Stepping up to the microphone, Heitler sang a parody of “Old Man River” about the “old man tennis player,” which drew enthusiastic applause.

Captain of the Year Sandy Schonhoff and tennis pro Kay Thayer

Fabulous price on this north Longboat Key, 2 bedroom, Longbeach Condominium with full Gulf views. $399,000

Beautiful and private, 3,100 sq. ft. custom home on sailboat water with kayak ramp, boat dock and lift. $889,000

George Heitler is the center’s oldest player.

2009 & 2010 Top Individual Producer for Michael Saunders & Company’s Longboat Key Offices

HannerleMoore@michaelsaunders.com

www.michaelsaunders.com

pH 941.387.7300 www.Hannerle.com

Go to www.Hannerle.com to see a video tour on every property

FX 941.296.7722 52985

440 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228

Walter Hackett and Rick McGrath

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

GAMES • TRAVEL

Deal Us In

BRIDGE HAND

Dealer: West Vulnerable: Both

A simple overcall is all that is necessary This hand was sent by Bob Hammil, of Citrus Springs.

“Sometimes there is a question of whether to overcall or double, especially with this hand,” Hammil writes. “I had a big hand but decided that a simple overcall was all that was necessary. When my partner raised in spades, I bid the game.”

Because both opponents were in the auction, this was probably the best action. South could have left in a double. His partner had passed, and they were vulnerable.

West took his two high clubs and shifted to a heart, which the declar-

er took with his ace. The problem was to avoid losing two tricks in the diamond suit. West most likely had the king of diamonds for his opening lead. So, declarer decided to use dummy’s nine and eight of diamonds to engineer an end play.

Declarer crossed to the dummy with a trump to the nine and ruffed a heart high. He went back to the dummy with a trump to the 10 and cashed the king of hearts for a diamond discard. He then led the eight of diamonds from the dummy.

East played low, because declarer would have run the eight to West,

13C

www.YourObserver.com

North

♠ 10 9 7 6 5 ♥K86 West East ♦ A98 ♣75 ♠ VOID ♠ 83 ♥7542 ♥ Q J 10 9 3 K 7 2 ♦ ♦ J 10 6 South ♣ A K J 10 9 2 ♣Q83 ♠ AKQJ42 ♥ A ♦ Q543 ♣ 64

which would gain a sure end play if West won with either the Jack or the 10. East ruined this plan by rising with the Jack of diamonds.

Declarer had to guess. He elected to play East for the 10 also, so he ducked. On East’s forced diamond return, declarer again played low.

When West dropped the king, the contract was made.

Donna Swan is a resident of Long-

boat Key, an ardent bridge player and an American Contract Bridge League certified director who plays “for the fun of it.”

Bidding: West 1 ♣ 2 ♥ Pass

it’s read everywhere

North Pass 2♠ Pass

East 1♥ Pass Pass

South 1♠ 4♠

Opening Lead: K ♣

the longboat observer Sudoku 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 15C. © Tribune Media Services

ST. BARTS. The Longboat Observer enjoyed a new island setting when it traveled to the island of St. Barts, in the French

West Indies, with Ann Milner and Kim Williams.

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ver r e s b O BOAT LONG 1C NEWS

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OUR TOWN

By Kurt

PEOPLE,PLACES PICS &

Schultheis

| City Editor

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

vote validates error in Town ad

NDUM REFERE BEACh

See OUR

TOWN /

PAGE

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

Diversions

We’ve got our eye on

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

ARTS | EN T E R TA I

COmmuNity EvENtS!

Dora Walters

to newspaper prior to the m. State can’t holds anoth by a counbe used week either Schultheis proble validated that will eroded north

By Kurt 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 | City Editor

NMENT | SOCIETY | FOOD | FA SHION | D éCOR

NEWS MUSE

by Heidi Kurpiela

The Observer

WWW.yo

UroBSErv

Er.coM

thUr SDAy MARC H 24, 2011

| A&E Editor

INSIDE

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

BLACK TIE thE SocIAL oBSErvEr

Fax: Phone:

941.383.7193 941.383.5509 or 941.366.3468

Date of request ______________________________________________ subscription start date________________________________________ 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

Local News that’s

2011 subsCriPtion rates

trash bins dressed in a flashy blue button-down shirt, pinstrip e pants and shiny black shoes — his on this particu outfit lar Tuesday.

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

CROSS CONTI NUED

ON PAGE 2B

Andi Munzer and Jan Feidelman

LOCAL NEWS! YourObserver.com

_________________ Check # ____________________Cash: ___________________

Heidi Kurpiela

pictured here

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

E

ric Cross is a pretty dapper dresser for a dumpster diver.

It’s hard to picture 51-year-old with a 30 creating window years experience displays for luxury clothing retailer s rooting throug h

exp Date_____________________billing zip code

1 Year (52 weeks) 6 Months (26 weeks) 3 Months (13 weeks) 49650

49643

You. Your Neighbors. Your Neighborhood.

You. Your Neighbors. Your Neighborhood.

First Class $150

standard Mail $75

Canada

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“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,

14C

Sunrise/sunset

RAINFALL

North

Mon., March 21 Tues., March 22 Wed., March 23 Thurs., March 24 Fri., March 25 Sat., March 26 Sun., March 27

0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Mid South 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Month to date: 2011

1.50 in

2010 4.13 in.

Year-to-date:

2010 8.85 in.

2011 5.68 in

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

WEATHER

www.YourObserver.com

Sunrise

WEEKLY WINNEr: Lit from within

Sunset

Thurs., March 31 7:23

7:47

Fri., April 1

7:21

7:48

Sat., April 2

7:20

7:48

Sun., April 3

7:19

7:49

Mon., April 4

7:18

7:49

Tues., April 5

7:17

7:50

Wed., April 6

7:16

7:51

TemperatureS

Temps.

Record Temps.

High Low High Low Tues., March 22 75 58 88 (1997) 46 (1981) 76 57.5 89 (1987) 53 (1981) Wed., March 23 79 69 90 (1988) 45 (2010) Thurs., March 24 79 64.5 89 (1997) 45 (2006) Fri., March 25 Sat., March 26 80 65 93 (1998) 45 (2006) Sun., March 27 83.5 70 92 (1998) 48 (2006) Mon., March 28 82 68.5 92 (1997) 53 (1987) Average Gulf water temperature: 74

Joseph Levine submitted this sunset photo, taken near Bay Isles Beach Club.

TIDE CHART Highs Thurs., March 31 11:46a 11:45p Fri., April 1 11:57a — Sat., April 2 12:27a 12:08p Sun., April 3 1:05a 12:21p Mon., April 4 1:42a 12:38p Tues., April 5 2:18a 1:01p Wed., April 6 2:58a 1:29p

Lows 5:56a 6:13p 6:21a 6:48p 6:42a 7:21p 7:00a 7:53p 7:16a 8:26p 7:33a 9:03p 7:51a 9:44p

April 3 New

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 e-mail them to nschwartz@yourobserver.com.

April 11 First

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

April 25 Last

April 18 Full

52544

MOON PHASES

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

C R Y P T O G R A M S by Myles Mellor 1. P O V I I R S S U U G P K B U Q R T U B D F P Q R T U O V I R O P K P

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GET A LITTLE R&R by Cliff Reed

ACROSS 1 Chronic complainers 8 Priestly robes 12 Protected area 19 Rest on top of 20 Feature of many horror films 21 Bound, in a way 22 Actor elected governor of California in 1966 24 Place to browse?

25 Nautical speed measure 26 Dangerous snake 27 Drink made from a root 29 Pass by, as time 32 Bit of baby babble 33 Shade of green 34 Tube top?

37 Arthritis symptom 38 Boot camp trainee 44 Surprisingly curt 46 Ready-go connector 49 Place to put a tap 50 Singer Rogers 51 Hard-boiled crime genre 52 Remote control abbr.

54 Sixth sense letters 56 “Faster ___ a speeding bullet” 57 Shaped like an egg 59 List in detail 63 Fill beyond capacity 65 All eternity, to a bard 66 Sworn statement 68 “___ and Circumstance” 70 Sedimentary stuff 71 Ultimate game of risk 75 Bit players in a big machine 76 “Good one!”

77 ___ Mountains (Russian range)

78 Chicken ___ king 81 William Pitt’s purview 84 Pre-euro currency of Greece 87 With overhangs, as a roof 89 Feeling insulted 90 Vote in favor 92 Anonymous Jane 93 “Stretch” vehicle 94 Shoelace tip 96 “Black Beauty” author Sewell 99 It may be snowy or spotted 101 Self-confidence 103 Wile E. Coyote’s prey 105 They fit in locks 107 Scot’s “not” 108 “Go on ...”

109 Guitarist’s hookup 111 Urban professional of the ‘80s 113 Ancestor 117 Function 118 Homophone for “lane” 122 Those with lots to sell 123 Classic sitcom hubby 127 Where studs hang 128 Canyon carom 129 Lice 130 Made fuzzy 131 Buggy driver’s control 132 Let loose, as the dogs 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

dOwn Wine-bottle stopper Shakespeare’s river City near Tahoe Yammer on Letter-shaped addon Cleansed (of) Winged celestial being

8 Showing shock 9 Captain Kirk’s record 10 Fort ___, N.C. 11 Twelfth-graders 12 Napa Valley equipment 13 Main menu choice 14 Keep out of the way, as long hair 15 Passed-down tales 16 Vampire novel author Rice 17 “... ___ the twain shall meet” 18 WWII insecticide 21 Barnyard grunter 23 Slalom curves 28 Ancient ark builder 30 Swimming unit 31 “___ your age!”

34 Birch bark vessel, sometimes 35 Over 36 ___ to (before) 39 Fate of Wednesday’s child 40 Fix the bathroom floor, perhaps 41 Tip one’s tam 42 “For those listening ___ home ...”

43 Emmy-winning Daly 45 William Tell’s canton 47 “Madam, I’m Adam” addressee 48 “Patriot Games” novelist Clancy 53 Watch words?

55 Carbo-loader’s choice 58 Breadmaker’s need 59 “Don’t judge a book by ___ cover” 60 Pizza crust order 61 Heavy petting location?

62 Aussie farm bird 64 Album cover info 67 Analyze, as an alloy 69 Clue surname

71 72 73 74 75 78 79 80 81 82 83 85 86 88 91 95 97 98 100 101 102 104 106 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 119 120 121 122 124 125 126

Degenerated Give a leg up Cash register co.

Noteworthy time Waitress with Sam and Coach Par ___ (phrase on French airmail) Theme of a composition Sun-dried brick Burn heavily Boss of fashion Took the scenic route Affectionate murmur Chop Every last one Shakers founder Lee Deere product Unmixed, to a mixologist Munitions maker Crummy Dadaism co-founder Jean “___ Love You” (Beatles song) Prepare for the bath Synopsis Compare the costs of Gold rush setting Send over the moon Sound from a steeple Red-to-pinkish, steakwise Clay cooking pot Biblical mount Opera solo Mid-month date Bite on the run Confederate soldier, for short Acupuncture life force Accelerator particle Mil. rank

Last weeks Cryptograms 1. An artist’s model and a pooch were chatting by a pool about what they had in common. Although different in many ways, they both sit for masters.

2. Ingenious dentist’s sign: “Ignore your teeth and they will all go away.”

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

CLASSIFIEDS

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reduce energy use for heating and cooling only (not hot Source (www.solarsource.net). “But water) by 50 percent. that’s about to change,” he says. “I’m What does it all mean? In plain English, you can anticipating that my business will save a bundle, according to Wallace. “There are two double within two years.” Largo-based forms of savings,” he says. “One savings is on your Solar Source installs solar systems federal tax bill; the other is on your electric bill. You for homes in Tampa and surrounding FREE Energy Analysis, Call Today Owner can save up to $4,000 on your federal tax bill, $2,000 counties. * Call for details outdoor furniture experts of which qualifies for solar thermal, which is for only Richard Lavigne, president of www.patiorepairs.net Saving Money and the Environment Since 1984! domestic hot water, not pool solar. And $2,000 of it All Solar Power Inc. in Tampa (www. qualifies for solar electric systems, known as photovolallsolar.com), agrees with Wallace. His Photovoltaic (solar electricity) system panels being installed taics. If someone wanted to go completely solar, they company specializes in installing solar

by Solar Source at a Tampa residence . could knock $4,000 off their tax bill.” domestic hot water systems and solar Wallace goes on to say that if you invest in solar pool heating systems. in the most cost-effective way and use a solar coolLavigne also anticipates business doubling. “I expect it will really start to pick up after the ing device that is run by solar electric, you can save a t’s time to think seriously about the sun — not how minimum of $60 a month on your electric bill. “On a holidays, in early January,” he says. “Once people see to get a better, faster or safer suntan, but how to $5,000 investment in solar equipment, you can get a that the government is behind solar, the whole notion invest in solar technology to significantly slash your 30 percent tax credit,” he says. “That’s quite a deal. of using solar systems will have renewed credibility. By electric or gas bills.

Beyond the savings, you’ve also got an energy-efficient now, it should be perfectly clear that the price of gas is If you’ve ever considered harnessing solar energy home. It’s a no-brainer.” only going up every year.” to provide hot water for your home or heat your pool, For information about the new solar legislation, Lavigne sells pool heating systems for $3,500 this is the time to do it. Investing in solar technology contact the Florida Solar Energy Industries Association to $3,800, and domestic heating systems average always was a smart move, but it’s even more attracat 231 West Bay Ave., Longwood, FL 32750-4125; around $4,000. tive to Floridians right now following the signing of The phone: 407-339-2010 or 1-800-426-5899; fax: Bruce Kershner, executive director of FlaSEIA, is Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPAct 2005) — the first legislative effort to address U.S. energy policy since the not as optimistic as Wallace and Lavigne, but he is con- 407-260-1582; Web site: www.flaseia.org. fident that the new legislation will boost Florida’s solar Policy Act ofto 1992.

Thejunk new without legislation, lifting which a finger.

This SpringEnergy say goodbye your industry at least 10 to 15 percent over the next two goesit’s intoold effect in Januaryappliances, 2006, allows generous tax Whether furniture, electronics or MYTHS AND REALITIES ABOUT SOLAR ENERGY years. “Clearly, it will mean a renewed interest in solar incentives for installing solar systems in your home. renovation debris, we do all the loading and clean-up.

MYTH: Solar energy works well only in warm, systems,” he says. “It’s about time.”

Sadly, the concept of harnessing the sun’s power sunny climates.

Here are a few of the key provisions of the has never been universally endorsed, largely because REALITY: Solar technologies can work efficiently Book online at 1800gotjunk.com Home Theatres Master Suites Green Construction EPAct 2005: Kitchens of ignorance and myth. Many people still think solar and cost-effectively anywhere — even in cloudy Bathrooms Screen Rooms Garages Barns or call 1-800-468-5865.

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Thursday, March 31, 2011 Items Under $200 For Sale

Boat Slips For Rent/Sale

ANCHORS- 3 danforth-style anchors, 22lbs and less. Excellent condition + bucket of chain $120 376-1999

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

FAX/ COPIER941-387-7677

FOLDING CHAIRS, Six birch folding chair, cane backs & seats. $90. 941-383-2120

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.

PAINTING, WATERCOLOR sailboat, 5’W x 4’H $75. TV Console, new, 3’ x 21” $100.

941-387-3826

LBK MOORINGS; 45’ slip near bay for rent by owner. Good monthly or longer rates.

941-383-3103.

Antiques/Collectibles

Boats

Panasonic.

$50.00

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 LOCAL GUN Collector. Cash paid for 1 gun or entire collection. Older Winchesters, Marlins, Parker, L.C. Smith. etc. Please call Ron, 545-6212.

Autos For Sale

18/FT. 4 Winns Runabout 130HP Johnson.

No trailer. Runs well, looks good. $6000 O/B/O. Longboat Harbour 941-387-8786.

Boats Under 50K Are Selling Very Well.

This season’s sales are extremely brisk.

15’ center consoles - 32’ Sea Rays. Island resident, references. 25 Boats sold in 49 days, many in less than 3 weeks.

Business on a handshake. Let’s talk about selling your boat. 941-228-3489, Dave S. Yachtingflorida@aol.com

LIDO ESTATE- Heritage “Federal” Buffet with Brass Gallery $695. Kindal “Block Front” Mahogany Chest $599. Large Drexel bookcase, Wallace Nutting collection $850.

Solid Oak Home-Office Desk, Return & Hutch $995. Lane Leather Sofa Sleeper, like new $599. 5pc White Patio Set, Superior, swivel Tilt Chairs $599. Stanley 5pc. King Bedroom $895.

Like new LaZBoy Sofa & 2-Recliners, Plasma TV, Daybed, Bar & Stools, Leather Groups (Robb & Stucky).

941-745-2596 3015 1st St. (US Hwy 41) Bradenton

MERCEDES-BENZ 1986 560SL. Rare Teal Color Roadster, Tan Leather interior with sheepskin covers, 8cyl, 227HP, auto, ABS, PW, PS, Cruise, alarm, Allow Wheels, AM/FM/CD Drivers airbag, black convertible top with removable hardtop, 65,000 original miles, well maintained, Must See! Asking $16,900, 908-797-2837

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

Call Mike, 941-713-2277.

MOVING SALE 10a.m.-3p.m., FRI. APR.1 481 E. ROYAL FLAMINGO DR. BIRD KEY Numbers about 8 AM at the park by the Bird Key light on the Ringling Causeway.

Please do not go to the house until after 9 AM. Park only on one side of the street.

Rattan & glass dinette set, hunt board, cupboard, antique Chinese antique altar table, 11’ X 17’ oriental rug, sofa, pool bistro set, 4 bar chairs, king bed, writing desk, scatter & area rugs, 2 sets of dishes, 7 lamps, living room chairs, small tables, silk plants and arrangements, framed prints, sailing gear, tools, paint remover, 110 pump, car jacks, men & lady’s clothes, linens, kitchen.

SALE BY JULIE MCCLURE pix: WWW.APPRAISALS4U.BIZ

Furnishings

Manatee Furniture

2005 MERCEDES 320CLK- 2 door coupe, red, 52k miles, garage kept, pristine, elegant, perfect condition. $21,900. 941-544-9717

Garage/Moving/Estate Sales

WHITE WICKER bedroom suite: queen bed, 5 drawer chest, double dresser/mirror, night stand, beveled glass tops. 941-761-0274.

Garage/Moving/Estate Sales   FLEA MARKET. Sarasota Municipal Auditorium. Saturday, April 2, 10a.m.-5p.m. & Sunday, April 3, 10a.m.-4p.m. For info: 954-4165.

EVA STENDER ESTATE SALE- Fri & Sat, 4/1-4/2, 9am-2pm, 80 PALM AVENUE, SARASOTA. Cash/Credit Accepted.

Grandfather Clock, Crystal, Folk Art, China, Silverware, Oriental Rug, 14K Gold Jewelry, Vintage Fabrics, Sterling, Furniture, Fine Art, Linens, more. Absolute Estate Sales.

Details/Photos WWW.ESTATESALES.NET.

4 Easy Ways To Place your Classified ad Cha-Ching!

Call 941-955-4888

CLEAN UP Fax 941-362-4808

Email classified@yourobserver.com In The Observer Classifieds Call 955-4888 to Advertise Online at

www.yourobserver.com/classifieds

SALE BY NANCY DUNN 941-925-1993 FRIDAY 4/1, 9-2 & SAT. 4/2, 9-11 Longboat Key 1911 Bogey Lane, Country Club Shores V Majolica, art glass, copper pots, Waterford, Decorative accessories, Victorian hutch, 1920’s iron chairs, misc. wicker, tables, chairs and lamps, patio furniture, treadmill, full garage and kitchen. Lots of misc. #’s out at 8a.m.

For pictures: www.estatesalesbynancydunn.com

Classified Ads Bring Results 941-955-4888 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.

Health/Fitness/Beauty BEACH FITNESS 24/7 Fitness. Free enrollment. VIP access. #HS8848. Next to the Lazy Lobster! 941-778-0120.

Investment Opportunities INVESTOR WANTED - $150,000 for 24 months. 9% annual interest with payments monthly. Well secured/ insured. 941306-6715.

ISLAND CONSIGNMENT Store- Well Established. Over 50 Fine Artists. Includes NEW Web Site. Cozy / Profitable Family Business. Best offer. 941-348-9494 (Lv. msg.).

Storage STORAGE FACILITY Boat/ RV/ Trailer.

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

Business Opportunities AVON REPRESENTATIVES- Join the #1 Beauty Company. Free training, up to 50% commission, Big Bonus Opportunity.

Julie Garon, Independent Sales Rep. 586-752-4403 www.youravon.com/jgaron

Help Wanted P/T CONCIERGE/ GATE HOUSE Position Longboat Key Condo. No experience Necessary. Must be Service Oriented and Outgoing. Background Check, competitive Pay. Email Resume: info@lambiancelbk.com or fax to 383-9051 SALES POSITION. P/T. Must be available evenings & weekends. Located on Anna Maria Island. Retirees Welcome.

727-244-5906.

Commercial Property For Rent OFFICE SUITE: Reception Area, 2 Private Offices, 575/sq.ft., Lakefront View, 1891 Porter Lake Drive, south of Fruitville, minutes from I-75. Includes: Electrical, Water, Security, Parking. Annual Lease: $835 per month. 941-355-9520.

Commercial Property For Sale LBK GAS Station Site. Corner Gulf of Mexico Dr. & Broadway. Various commercial uses. $999,000 Longview Realty, 941-383-6112. www.longviewrealty.com

Condos/Apts. For Rent 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: 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. April 2nd. $1300/mo annual lease +utilities. 734-425-8245.

SEAPLACE CONDO- 2/1 overlooking Gulf.

Nicely furnished. Steps to beach. Annual rental $1595 month. Will consider short term also. 301-529-5600

This week’s crossword answers

THE OBSERVER LP # 39513

the longboat Observer THE LONGBOAT THURSDAY, MARCH 31,OBSERVER 2011

Thursday, March 31, 2011 Condos/Apts. For Rent SPELL-BOUNDING FULL BAY VIEWS. Location is everything. Walking distance to downtown, St. Armands Circle and the Gulf beaches. Boating and fishing are only steps away. 2 bedroom condo, ground floor, covered parking, furnished, boat dock included. Newly renovated pool. 55 and older community. $1200/mo. for 12 months or $1500/mo. for 8 months. Tenant pays electric. Please call Karin Stephan at 941-504-4435.

ST. ARMANDS TOWERS NORTH2BR/2BA, 8th floor condo in this classic building. Stunning unobstructed views, full balcony, heated pool, exercise room.

Available April 1st- November 1st. 3-month minimum. Call 941-554-4763

Condos For Sale

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

ENJOY THE Downtown Lifestyle at "1350 Main" the best location in town.

2BR/2BA Bay & Marina views, 40' terrace, 12' ceilings, bamboo wood floors, steps to pool. $529,000 Call Michael Granston 941-504-8018 Prudential Palms Realty LONGBOAT HARBOUR 1BR/1BA. Newly furnished, updated, remodeled kitchen.

Glass and screened lanai with beautiful water view. Many amenities. $175,000.

941-383-7301.

LONGBOAT KEY: 2BR/2BA, full bay and boat dock views, $249,000.

SIESTA KEY: 2BR/2.5BA, full bay and dock views, $209,000.

Value priced to sell!

Audrey Marten, Coldwell Banker 941-587-5060.

SUNSET BEACH: 2BR/2BA, beautiful pool and Gulf view. $575,000. 727-347-1554 or 727-420-4405. Open Sunday 12p.m.-4p.m.

CLASSIFIEDS

www.yourobserver.com

Homes For Rent

WANTED: LONG TERM lease for professional working couple. Mature, professional working couple looking for 2BR 2BA condo/house for long term lease.

Call Steve at 317-432-3154.

Vacation/Seasonal Rentals

Bring Your Boat!

Comfortable 2 Bedroom, 2 1/2 Bath Longboat Key Home for annual rental.

Secluded, Longboat Key home has a pool with caged lanai, enclosed garage, Unfurnished. Washer, dryer, lawn and pool maintenance included.

Located in the Buttonwood subdivision on a dead end street with lots of trees.

Short walk to the beach on beautiful Longboat Key and close to world class shopping in St. Armand’s Circle.

Boat dock access may be available. $1,400/month plus utilities.

941.355.9500 DEEP WATER ACCESS Boater’s Dream residential rental in south Longboat Key. 3BR/2BA, approx. 1720 sq.ft., only minutes to Sarasota Bay and open Gulf. 100/ft canal frontage with pool. Yearly lease at $2350/month + utilities. Call 228-327-7801.

HISTORIC LBK BEACH COTTAGE Furnished 2br/1ba. $1200/month includes utilities. Monthly rental. 941-320-4640

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. $3,500,000 furnished.

Contact Owner/ Broker, 941-920-1699.

FORECLOSURES IN Sarasota County. www.foreclosuresinsarasotacounty.com RE/MAX Platinum Realty

OPEN SUN 12-3PM

3BR/ 2BA Longboat Key canal front home with boat dock. Fully furnished. 5 minute walk to beach/ restaurants. Annual rental: $1650/mo. dwestbamberg@aol.com or 941-778-6601.

5 ACRE 4/2 home in Myakka on Verna Bethany Rd. 3 separate pasture/ barn. Call 908-451-4566 COUNTRY OAKS- Lakefront! Spacious 3/2/2 on cul-de-sac. Community Pool & Tennis. Freshly painted. Immaculate and ready for immediate occupancy.

5017 80th Ave. Cir. E. off Lockwood Ridge just north of University Pkwy. $1500 month.

941-350-0510 or 813-220-6799

3BR- LONGBOAT KEY CASTILLIAN 2.5BA, gulf front, furnished condo. Available from May 2011 throughout Season 2012.

Call 941-953-3438 or 941-266-9406 A LONGBOAT KEY Condo, 2BR/2BA, 10th floor, completely remodeled. Excellent view of gulf/ bay, beach, pool, & tennis courts. Non-smoking. Available OctoberDecember 2011. 3 month minimum.

941-377-4177 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 BOOK NOW for next season. Longboat Key, direct beachfront. 3BR/3.5BA and 1BR/1BA. 941-383-3844.

CASA DEL MAR BEACH RESORT WEEKLY RENTALS GULF FRONT/ GULF VIEW Reservations: 941-383-5549 Visa/ MC Fax: 941-383-7925

Office Open 7 Days, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

4621 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key 34228

Fractionals

Homes For Rent

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

“Take our video tour at” www.casadelmar.net

SUTTON PLACE TOWNHOME- 2BR/ 2Bath w/ garage. All new interior, Open floor plan.

All new appliances/ AC. A must see!

Beach & Boat Access, Pool $318,000.

941-383-0993

TIMESHARE ON LONGBOAT KEY LITTLE GULL COTTAGES. Beautiful 2BR/2BA on bayside, dock, pool, access to private gulfside beach area. Week 24 - Unit 14 (June) only $1200 OBO. LONGBOAT BAY CLUB - 1600/sq.ft. float week, 2BR/2BA, balcony overlooking bayside cove, pool, hot tub & dock. Only 100 yards walk to the gulf. $1500 OBO. Call Sandy @ 407-234-9551

Real Estate Wanted

6 OPEN HOUSES IN ONE NEIGHBORHOOD! ROSEDALE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Gated, golf, clubhouse, tennis, No CDD Fees. SR70, BRADENTON. STOP AT Rosedale Realty Office at 5415 87th St. E. for map. 941-751-9070 ST. ARMANDS KEY Quaint Cottage, quiet front porch location, 3BR/2BA, lowest on the Island. $589,000.

The island’s only confirming building lot 131 front feet.

New construction from $900,000.

Glenn Callaghan Re/Max Alliance Group 941-928-9020

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

Family of 3, non-smoking, no pets. Will provide local references. 727-224-4859 or email: skbrynt@aol.com

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

“Where People Return Year After Year” “INTENTIONALLY BETTER”

COVERT II 2BR/2BA with 30’ glass screened enclosed lanai on the gulf. Heated pool, non-smoking, no pets. Available weekly starting May 2011. Also available Jan, Feb, March and April 2012 monthly.

513-871-9120 or 513-702-0418 DIRECT GULF FRONT CONDO: 2BR/2BA. No Pets. $5000/mo.

813-334-0813 www.SunnyFloridaCondo.com DIRECT GULFFRONT: 2BR/2BA condo.

Nicely furnished, small upscale building.

Non-smoking. No pets. 1 month minimum.

Available 6/1 to 12/31, 2011. 201-694-9222.

HISTORIC LBK BEACH COTTAGE Furnished 2br/1ba. $1200/month includes utilities. Monthly rental. 941-320-4640

17C Classifieds 17C www.YourObserver.com

Vacation/Seasonal Rentals 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 LBK AQUARIUS CLUB. Direct beach front, 2BR/2BA, W/D, newly renovated. Covered parking, pool, tennis courts. 3 month min.

912-507-2279 or 912-507-2280 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.

941-383-1884.

LBK CONDO: 3320 GMD, 2BR/2BA, end unit on bay. Pool, tennis, boat dock & launch, steps to beach, kitchen, W/D, carport. No smoking/ pets. 815-978-2958.

LBK PLAYERS CLUB: 1445 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Upscale, ocean view condo, 3BR/3BA, covered parking. Steps to beach and pool.

Available December 2011 to March 2012.

516-885-6217.

LBK, CC SHORES, loverly home, 3/2/2, beautifully decorated, W/D, heated pool, dock, screened lanai, wireless internet, cable, phone, plasma TV, no pets/ smoking.

Walk to beach. November- April $4500 month. Owner 941-504-1927 LBK: PROMENADE. Newly renovated 2BR/2BA condo, 7th floor, Gulf and bay view, southern exposure. Wi-Fi and all amenities. 3/mo. minimum rental. $20,000.

941-383-3688.

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

Beautifully furnished, heated pool, covered parking. 1 mo. min. 941-383-3338.

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 HARBOR 2011-2012 Season.

2BR/2BA, bay view, private beach, W/D, second floor. Non-smoking.

No pets.

410-984-4435, 941-374-2099, andytanchel@verizon.net 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 March 1 - April 30. By owner, 860633-3541, extension 204 or 860-633-2502.

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.

351-5101.

18C Classifieds 18C

www.yourobserver.com

Vacation/Seasonal Rentals

Waterfront Property

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

Four month minimum. No smoking.

847-634-1991

BREATHTAKING WATERFRONT parcel.

Fully engineered, approved and ready for development of 7 SF homes and 5 boat dock on fabulous Palma Sola Bay. Or use all 3.9 acres for your own retreat. Will trade for waterfront Sarasota home or negotiate on sale. $1.8M Marcia Wood, Broker, marcia@marciawood.com 941-350-2285

RARELY AVAILABLE RESORT STYLE LIVING Private beach, tennis, heated pools, 2BR/2BA, Whitney Beach, Longboat Key, downstairs, Bayou/ dock frontage.

724-3519.

Available: 2 Bedroom Condos on the beach with heated pool!

5655 Gulf of Mexico Drive

LONGBOAT KEY, FL

CNA/HHA WILL take care of your loved one.

Excellent references. Great rates. Flexible hours. Call 941-726-0392.

941-383-4666 or 866-383-4666 www.Cedarswest.com Wagner Realty Since 1939 www.WagnerRealty.com

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 WANTED FEBRUARY 2012 rental- Lido Key/ Longboat Key 2 bedroom/ 2bath x 1 month: rxnutt@aol.com 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!

Wagner Realty Since 1939 www.wagnerrentals.com

PRIVATE DUTY HOME CARELicensed, insured LPN for full or part-time.

Your cherished one deserves extra special attention and compassion. Geriatric, respite care, cleaning, meals, errands, caregiver relief. Call 941-928-4611 or email: PrivateDutyHome@aol.com TLC FOR YOUR LOVED ONES Excellent Group of Caregivers and CNAs Assistance w/every day living.

Available 7 days a week.

Licensed/ Insured.

941-378-5553 1-888-906-6565

Alterations/Upholstery SEW ELEGANT- Professional Tailor.

Seamstress, Custom Work, Alterations.

By Appointment, Jenni Taylor 386-503-3360

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

SUNCOAST TRANSPORTER Long Distance Delivery.

“Snowbirds” I drive your car door to door!

One Inclusive price.

Mike 941-993-0236

D SOLD! L SO In The Observer Classifieds in The

Observer Classifieds

Get all 3 Observers for only $99

Stand out from the crowd and get widespread exposure with The Observer ‘Make Your Move’ real estate ad. Your ad will appear in all 3 Observers – reaching prime prospects in Sarasota and Manatee counties.

• The Longboat ObserverReserved Space Buy N • The Sarasota ObserverLP Reserved Space ow • The East County Observer Ad Specifications Ad Size: 2.5” x 3” Photo size: 2.5” x 1.5” Avg # of words: 40 Full color available!

No logos.

Designate your headline.

e l P M SA abs o Mod lutely el pe rfect elegan ers. t Bis O 3400 ne of be cayne flo home in s st lo sq. ft ilve ts w/la or plan kitch . und r by e e appl. n w/wood r air. 4 B ke & Priva Bamboo oak.

D 3 en. B car gar. cabinets + den, 3 te Views. Build, gra , larg 1/2 B uilt in Over n e ite A 2001 h ! $89 td pool & counters . Gourme 9,90 t , sta spa w 0. in John John Doe R/outdoor kitcless eal E h D 941 state -555 oe .

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To advertise your listing call (941) 955-4888 or email classified@yourobserver.com

The Observer You. Your Neighbors. Your Neighborhood.

Home Improvement/ Remodeling



JOHN GUBERNAT HANDYMAN SERVICES ALL HOME REPAIRS

FRIDAY NIGHT DINNERS ARE BACK AT OUR LONGBOAT KEY CENTRE SHOPS LOCATION!!

FRIDAY **APRIL 1**

 LIVE MAINE LOBSTER  BLUE FIN CRAB CAKES  PRIME RIB

Adult Care Services CNA- LICENSED with Experience. Available immediately.

Great references.

All Certifications completed. Call Angie at 941-993-2480

Catering BLUE DOLPHIN CAFE

WATERFRONT FOR TRADE- Will trade LBK gulf front, 2BR/2BA, upgraded Condo for AMI Gulffront condo.

Make offer.

217-493-6216

Seasonal Rentals on the Gulf!

CEDARS WEST

the longboat Observer THE LONGBOAT OBSERVER THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 Thursday, March 31, 2011

CLASSIFIEDS

www.YourObserver.com

ALL ENTREES SERVED WITH CHEF’S CHOICE STARCH & VEGETABLE HOMEMADE PIES! AND MUCH MORE... JUST ASK...

FRIDAYS NOW OPEN 8A.M.-8P.M. FULL MENU AVAILABLE BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER 383-3787 CALL FOR RESERVATIONS BEER & WINE AVAILABLE

Cleaning 5 STAR Cleaning Services: Meeting residential clients’ home cleaning needs on the Keys and Sarasota area for over 25 years. Friendly, Reliable, Bonded and Insured. Free Estimates. New Service: Home Watch. Call Laura now at 941-302-3992.

SARASOTA GRILL CLEANING SERVICES Specializing in rust removal and polishing of stainless steel BBQ grills. Contact Matt, 941-914-8508.

Computer Services Cmagik - lbk.cmagik.com, LBK resident.

Over 20 years experience PC or MAC. Computer service, setup, tutoring or web design. TV/ computer/ stereo integration.

Digital camera, iPod/ iPhone help. Call Cort, 383-3878, 587-5588.

COMPUTER REPAIR, Installation and Training.

Fast and Reliable.

Call “The Computer Doctors”. 941-586-8535.

OWN A MAC? MacTutor offers 21 years experience. Unlimited free telephone follow up. (941)812-3887 www.FLMacTutor.com

Concrete ARCHITECTURAL DECORATIVE CONCRETE OVERLAYS. Unlimited patterns and colors. Great for: Driveways, Pool Decks, Garages and more. www.SRQFloors.com 941-726-4622

Health Services Got

IBS?.... Hypnosis WORKS! Dr. David Sewell AP

Carpentry, Painting, Property Caretaking, Roof Leaks/ Coatings, Power washing, Dock Repairs.

Excellent service. 30 years experience.

941-383-5765 Home 941-962-4867 cell LBK Resident Licensed/Insured TILE TILE TILE All Variations of Ceramic Tile Supplied & Installed.

Free Estimates & Custom Designs.

Expert Marble & Travertine Installation Floor & Walls Grout Cleaning & Sealing Service Available Call Ashdown Flooring, Inc. LICENSED (941) 726-3077 INSURED

Home Services LBK HOME WATCH. Year ‘round LBK resident will check your house, condo, weekly or monthly. Call Ron, 383-9119.

Painting/Wallpapering CARLO DATTILO PAINTING. Licensed & insured. Interior/ Exterior painting including drywall repair and retexturing. Wallpaper installation & removal, pressure washing.

Residential & commercial, condos. Honest & reliable. Free estimates. 941-744-1020.

35+ years experience.

Personal Services PERSONAL TRAINER- I come to you!

10+ years experience. Weight-loss, Strength-training, Motivation. Improve your health and mobility!

941-807-2219 http://www.kelliefitness.com YOUR PERSONAL BOOKKEEPER, LLC Gail Sunray, Owner Personal & Business Bookkeeping Accounting/ Taxes I come to your home or office.

 Bill Paying & Account Reconciliation  Organizing Personal and Business Files  Budgets & Financial Reports  Federal and State Tax Returns BONDED & INSURED Over 25 yrs. experience Telephone: 941-749-5646 yourbookkeeper@tampabay.rr.com

Professional Services

Specialist in Medical Hypnosis

BOAT SITTING

www.SarasotaClinicalHypnosis.com

Imagine: Your boat always being water ready! Over 35 years experience. Call 941-778-7556

941-321-9267

Home Improvement/ Remodeling

Tile ISLE TILE FOR “QUALITY AND EXPERIENCE” Floors, bathrooms, showers, backsplashes, patio and pool decks.

20 years design background.

Licensed - Insured - LBK Resident References upon request.

941-383-2659

STEVE ALLEN FLOOR COVERINGS PROFESSIONAL TILE & MARBLE INSTALLATION 20 YRS. EXPERIENCE CALL FOR FREE ESTIMATE 726-1802 LIC/ INS

5

DID WE get your attention? You bet we did!

Make your ad stand out with COLOR. Only in The Observer Classifieds. www.YourObserver.com/classifieds Call 941-955-4888 to advertise.

Place Your Ad Online 24/7

www.YourObserver.com

HOME SERVICES

House Care Watch

'2&.6,'( %2$7 5(3$,5 $1' 0$,17(1$1&(

CAREGIVER/COMPANION

Dennis Gotthelf

KITCHEN/BATH REMODELING

Sensitive, caring, compassionate, honest and dependable CNA/caregiver with 3 years experience. Insured and bonded.

General Contractor Specializing in Kitchen & Bath Remodeling

Contact Bill Spence

Phone: 941-993-7994 E-mail: bill@billmycaregiver.com Web Site: BillMyCaregiver.com 54976

Lighthouse Renovations

Classified Ads Bring Results 941-955-4888

www.lightreno.com

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UĂŠ 7ĂŠ " -/,1 / " ĂŠ UĂŠ , 9ĂŠ- ,6 ĂŠ Family Owned & Operated UĂŠ7 / ,ĂŠ / ,2 Florida State Cert. Master Plumbers UĂŠ- 7 ,ĂŠEĂŠ , ĂŠ ĂŠ #CFC1426596

Since 1975

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RONALD FRANK BUYER OF ALL STAMP COLLECTIONS

CGC1507388 Lawrence Barnett (941)526-7750

MOVERS

COMPUTER

OR 778-4461

PLUMBING

DEPENDABLE & ON TIME FREE ESTIMATES

Free at home consultation National Brands, Competitive Pricing Limited Lifetime Warranty Seasonal Discounts

$15/hour or $100/day.

CNA Lic# 223777

53750

941.266.0562

CHRISTIE’S 778-3924 RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL

53876

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Multi-Point Inspections‡Water Plants Car Charge‡ Meet/Arrange Contractors DGotthelf1@Verizon.net - REFERENCES

54838

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PLUMBING

54165

BOAT SERVICES

19C Classifieds 19C

CLASSIFIEDS www.yourobserver.com

American Philatelic Society Dealer Since 1969

FREE Appraisals Throughout Sarasota Until April 30, 2011 Will travel Florida to Maine and all points in between phone or fax 941.387.1255 email Frankslr@aol.com

54802

THElongboat LONGBOAT OBSERVER the Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 Thursday, March 31, 2011

REMODELING/HOME IMPROVEMENT

West Florida Contractor, Inc.

359-1904

Kitchens • Baths • RooďŹ ng • Electrical • Painting Windows • Repairs & More!

TILE

Pretty Tile, Ugly Grout?

Regrout ♌ Recaulk ♌ Repair Clean ♌ Seal ♌ Recolor

We Cure Sick Grout!

Floors ♌ Kitchens ♌ Showers

Phone (941) 704-4278 Fax (941) 538-3781

54322

Dave McCarthy Operator/Owner

For Free in-home estimates and consulting Visit our website at: www.TLHillConstruction.com

Painting by Karen

SCOTT WOOLF HANDYMAN EXTRAORDINAIRE

Professional Interior Painting

“No Job Too Small� (941)

Corby J. deKozlowski Specializing in Residential Painting

54309

Fully Insured

(941) 388-3580

320-1397

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INSURANCE

Ask About EnduroShield Coatings

$25 Off with this ad

Free Estimates

WINDOWS Lic./Ins. se Window Washin i r n Su and Pressure Cleaning g

Res./Com.

Environmentally Friendly

“Leave Your Dirty Windows To Us�

941-447-0127 • 941-284-5880 53899

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53890

"ASIC 0AINTING s $ECORATIVE 7ALLS s &URNITURE s ,IGHTS s -ISC )TEMS

31 Years Experience, Prompt, Reliable Service, I Call Back My Customers, Keep My Appointments, AND Your Satisfaction is My Goal.

941-755-1300

www.groutdoctor.com

PAINTING

By Referral or Ad Only

INSURANCE

941-383-8132 • Cell: 941-328-2949

54280

54277 38056 54234

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+ITCHENS s "ATHROOMS s 7INDOWS s $OORS s 3CREEN 2OOMS s &LOORING s 2OOlNG s 0AINT (OME /FlCES s $ESIGN "UILD s 'REEN #ONSTRUCTION s 3OLAR s -ETAL "UILDINGS s "ARNS 'ARAGES s ND &LOOR !DDITIONS s #OMMERCIAL s )NDUSTRIAL s #USTOM (OMES

scottmwoolf1@gmail.com

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Home Visits Available

LOCAL - LONG DISTANCE FREE ESTIMATES

Call: 941-746-5255

941-536-1770

at Panache Salon

“Will move anything from a couch to a household�

Honey Do Lists / No Job Too Small ASK ABOUT OUR DISCOUNTS! – 10% Senior Discount

Call Anytime

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State Lic #CGC1507489

LBK’s New Barber

Dave McCarthy

HANDYMAN

Affordable Expert

SALONS

Ken Schwartz

The Observer Service Directory Call 955-4888 to advertise.

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FL LIC# CGC1505233

“UP TO 25 STANDARD WINDOWS • $109.00â€?

SPRING SPECIALS

10%

Free Estimates

5.00

OFF + Additional $

For Senior Citizens Prices Include:

2 Bath Mirrors • 2 Fans • Tracks • Screens

54581

PATIO REPAIRS Furniture Sales & Repairs 941-504-0903

941-906-8554

BULLSEYE! Reach a Targeted Audience

FURNITURE REPAIR

#USHIONS s 3LINGS s 5MBRELLAS

Fully Licensed and Insured

54565

54801

U.S. DOT No. 1915800

53743

We sell boxes!

54803

Residential/Commercial Construction & Renovation – All Phases

INSURANCE

Insurance Rates are going Up NO FOOLING

SECUR-ALL INSURANCE AGENCY

4134 Gulf Of Mexico Dr. #206, Longboat Key, FL 34228 • Harbour Square Building (Next To Patti Georges) CHUBB, AIG, UNIVERSAL, UNITED, TRAVELLERS, SAFECO, PROGRESSIVE, CITIZENS, FLOOD. WE HAVE YOU COVERED!

54804

Call Secur-All Insurance Agency. We Can Help • 941-383-3388

20C

the longboat Observer THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

www.YourObserver.com

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

850 Mangrove Point Road This jewel has been meticulously renovated over the past two years to the highest standards and is truly better than new.

This home represents a rare opportunity for those looking to combine the classic Sarasota School of Architecture design with the intimacy of living on the ground level in the structural integrity and modern conveniences of new construction. Maureen & Matt Morris 941.350.0807 $3,499,000

6424 Gulf Drive, 7 Terry Hayes

$1,589,000 941.302.3100

765 Siesta Key Circle Roberta Tengerdy

$1,569,000 941.321.2292

223 Harbor Drive N Terry Hayes

$1,399,999 941.302.3100

1245 Sea Plume Way Judie Berger

$1,295,000 941.928.3424

524 Spoonbill Drive N Judie Berger

$1,195,000 941.928.3424

7475 Preservation Drive Cindy Migone

$1,175,000 941.812.7438

6326 Midnight Pass Road, 509 Peg Davant & Tom Kelley

990 Boulevard of the Arts, 602 Cheryl Loeffler

$995,000 941.302.9674

1321 Oak Point Court Courtney & Jason Green

$619,900 941.809.8432

1741 Stanford Lane Tamara & Todd Currey

$574,900 941.587.1776

167 Tampa Avenue, 813 Cheryl Loeffler & Joe Vuono

$529,000 941.302.9674

7661 Calle Facil Joel Schemmel

$529,000 941.587.4894

1350 Main Street, 1507 Perry Corneau

$525,000 941.650.4626

941.364.4000

$1,750,000 941.809.0041

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.

51164

4235 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 84 Dennis Girard & Joanne Zimmerman

$2,549,000 941.356.4552