Longboat Observer - Thursday, May 12, 2011

bserver O

LONGBOAT

You. Your neighbors. Your neighborhood.

Thursday, MAY 12, 2011

NEIGHBORHOOD

NEWS

SYC’s Derby-themed fundraiser features fabulous fashions.

DIVERSIONS

2010 census data for Longboat Key is broken down by the numbers.

Choreographer Elizabeth Weil Bergmann winds down. INSIDE.

PAGE 12A.

OUR TOWN

PAGE 3A.

comp plan amendments

APPROVAL RATING

by Kurt Schultheis | City Editor

by Kurt Schultheis | City Editor

Whitney Beach owner Firefighter welcomes modifications contract The Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Board reduced a proposed height modification for Whitney Beach Plaza from five stories to four stories.

Photo courtesy of Anne Kelley

The town will still count overtime and sick leave as a final pension payout in a fire contract that expires Sept. 30.

+ St. Mary holds crowning event The St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church Women’s Guild celebrated Mother’s Day with its annual crowning ceremony of the blessed Virgin Mary statue after Sunday Mass.

Women’s Guild member Anne Kelley crowned the statue, and Msgr. Gerard Finegan led parishioners in hymns and prayers.

in height, which is what the planning board originally suggested in March.

“What we envision is a height that won’t impact anyone,” Kenney said. “We want to work with the town and have open dialogue.”

Former Mayor George Spoll also warned the planning board not to approve a Comp Plan amendment for Whitney Beach Plaza that allows for five stories over one level of parking.

“If you want to start a war on this Key, go ahead and propose five stories,” said Spoll, speaking on behalf of the Longboat Key Revitalization Task Force of which he is chairman. “The north end sees itself in a par-

The town of Longboat Key and its firefighters have tentatively agreed upon a contract that expires in less than five months.

At a contract negotiation session Tuesday, May 10, town labor attorney Reynolds Allen told the firefighters the town would not impose a mandate to not count vacation and sick leave as compensation when determining a final pension payout for retired employees.

Even though the town has the right to impose that mandate, Town Manager Bruce St. Denis won’t impose it, because doing so would jeopardize the approximately $262,000 the town receives annually from the state to help fund its firefighter pension.

“We discovered that if that were effectuated, it would cause the town to lose dollars that help pay for the plan,” Allen said at the meeting. “It would be detrimental to the town, the plan and the employees in the plan.”

Allen told Longboat Key Fire District Union Vice President Brandon Desch and firefighter union attorney Jim Brantley that the town would continue to count vacation and sick leave as compensation, until the state changes its statutes or the town and firefighters can agree upon a future contract.

“We are prepared to sign the contract today and present it to the Longboat Key Town Commission upon ratification by the union,” Allen said.

Brantley, however, told St. Denis and Allen that he didn’t think the contract would be ratified unless the town agreed to one other item.

Brantley suggested that firefighters already vested in the plan be al-

SEE PLAZA / PAGE 2A

SEE PENSION / PAGE 2A

Dora Walters

Juliani Kenney Investment Capital LLC is under contract to buy the former bank building at 6960 Gulf of Mexico Drive and the vacant lot owned by Bill Saba next to the building.

Dora Walters

+ Poinciana bloom is sign of spring It seems as if the Key is always in bloom. Early spring brings the gold trees covered with bright yellow flowers. The oleanders that line Gulf of Mexico Drive are brilliant with a variety of pinks. Then, in late spring, it’s time for the royal poinciana trees with huge limbs covered with masses of flaming red blooms. They are found in all areas of the Key.

SEE OUR TOWN / PAGE 8A

Turtle tracks

2011 2010 Nests 4 0 False crawls 5 0

agreement tentative

Brian Kenney’s vision for Whitney Beach Plaza is expanding.

At a special meeting held Thursday, May 5, to discuss Comprehensive Plan amendments, Kenney, the owner of Boston-based Juliani Kenney Investment Capital LLC, announced his company, which purchased Whitney Beach Plaza in December for $3.7 million, is currently under contract to purchase the former bank building (now owned by PFG Asset Management LLC) at Kenney 6960 Gulf of Mexico Drive and property owned by Bill Saba that’s located just south of the bank building along Gulf of Mexico Drive.

Kenney said he is also close to signing a contract to acquire the former Longbeach Chevron gas station, to complete his parcel acquisition trifecta and

expand his vision of Whitney Beach Plaza all the way north to Broadway.

One possible redevelopment goal for Kenney is to attain the interest of a hotel developer.

“There’s a huge void for hotel space here,” Kenney said. “The (plaza) site would be a good hotel site, but that’s not our main intention.

It’s definitely not our desire to build a monstrosity that upsets the town and nearby residents.”

Kenney, however, is contemplating whether it makes sense to build a retail center on the former bank building and the vacant gas station lot, while having a hotel on the Whitney Beach Plaza site that has access to the beach across Gulf of Mexico Drive.

Kenney said his company does not intend to build anything that reaches five stories

INSIDE: Revitalization Task Force focuses on plazas / PAGE 2A

INDEX Briefs....................4A Classifieds ........ 24A

Cops Corner....... 11A Crossword.......... 23A

Deal Us In......... 22A Opinion.................6A

Real Estate........ 16A Weather............. 23A

Vol. 33, No. 41 | Two sections YourObserver.com

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

PLAZA FROM 1A ticular fashion, and it’s up to us to protect it. It’s a phenomenal part of town, and if we destroy its character with a south-end structure, we will defeat its character.”

The majority of the planning board agreed to reduce the plaza’s maximum allowable height to four stories over one level of parking, for a maximum allowable height of 55 feet.

Kenney was happy with the board’s decision.

“While our initial desire was only to do retail at this site, we have heard a lot of excitement about other avenues (residential units over retail),” Kenney said.

Kenney says the overlay district the planning board is crafting through a Comp Plan amendment for the plaza is creating value for the area and his project.

Kenney also noted that increasing the density in the area will draw potential tenants to the plaza.

“Creating some additional density might create a draw for places like sandwich shops to come to the plaza,” Kenney

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

said. “Panera Bread wouldn’t even take a meeting with me, because the density is not high enough on the north end for them to consider. This (overlay district) makes it saleable for us and can help us close the deal. I think we can get retailers here with this.”

Planning board member Allen Hixon agreed.

“Do not ignore the residential component and what it bears on the bottom line,” Hixon said. “It broadens the margins for the developer to come in.”

Kenney’s comments prompted the planning board to allow plans for a residential component at the center that doesn’t exceed 30% of the total project, instead of the 20% mandate it suggested at its March 15 meeting.

In the coming months, a resolution or ordinance will be brought forward by town staff to the planning board for its review that includes Comp Plan amendments for Avenue of the Flowers and Whitney Beach plazas before being transmitted to the Longboat Key Town Commission and the state for approval.

Revitalization Task Force focuses on plazas Former Longboat Key Mayor George Spoll, chairman of the Longboat Key Revitalization Task Force, urged the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Board Thursday, May 5 to consider allowing developers to present projects at informal preliminary hearings.

“This process would be so much more open and more effective if there was an opportunity for informal discussion,” Spoll said. “The more constraints you put on ideas, the less ideas you will see come forth.

The process of informal hearings is exciting for a developer and encouraging, because it puts ideas in front of us that the town might not ever be exposed to otherwise.”

Although Spoll noted that town staff properly analyzes projects, he said there’s no opportunity for an applicant to talk to the planning board, as well as the community, to see if something different than what town code allows might be good for the island.

“There was clearly a relaxed, informal dialogue taking place about the future of Whitney Beach Plaza,” Spoll said after the meeting. “That’s exactly the kind of thing the task force is recommending take place.”

Planning board member Allen Hixon praised Spoll’s suggestion.

“We would like a developer to bring in the highest amount of creativity possible,” Hixon said.

PENSION FROM 1A lowed to continue to have a Deferred Retirement Options Plan (DROP) option for three years instead of the reduction to two years as suggested by the town.

St. Denis agreed not to change the DROP option in the contract, which expires Sept. 30.

“But the DROP option will be subject to negotiation again for the next contract,” Allen said.

Employees in the DROP plan still work for the town but are effectively retired, and their pension payments are no longer included in the pension plan and are, instead, placed in a separate savings account.

Brantley suggested that the reasoning behind the DROP change might help the town in the long run and entice some firefighters to retire.

“We think there are three or four people who are able to retire and might be willing to enter the DROP,” Brantley said. “With pension costs being as high as they are and the plan

being so small, if we can move three or four people out of the pension, I think it would be worth looking into.”

Brantley also suggested the union work together with members of town staff, possibly in a committee, to find ways to save money and reduce the $13 million in pension plan unfunded liabilities before both sides begin negotiating a longterm, three-year contract.

“I think it would be helpful for us to discuss various ideas and options to address unfunded liability and lower the town’s cost before we start negotiating again,” Brantley said.

St. Denis told Brantley and Desch he appreciated that both sides were working together.

“I think we are starting to head in the right direction,” St. Denis said.

The union, Brantley believes, will ratify the contract within the next 10 days, and St. Denis can present the contract to the commission for its final approval at its 7 p.m. Monday, June 6 regular meeting.

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

Osso Buco • Veal Chop • Chicken • Lamb • Fresh Seafood Sea Bass • Dover Soul • Pasta • Pizza

Call for reservations 383-0013 47893

5610 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key

50149

Protecting our natural environment for future generations

LISA

LANNON soil & water science

“For three generations my family has worked in Florida Phosphate—my father, his father and now me. And, I hope my kids will too. I study the natural balance between the water and land. I’m proud that we recycle 95 percent of the water we use and plant nearly a million trees each year. It’s a good way of life, with respect for the land. You might just say it’s a family tradition.”

53334

2A

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

head count

by Robin Hartill | Community Editor

Demographic makeup

3A

IN MEMORIAM

by Robin Hartill | Community Editor

According to newly released data from the U.S. Census Bureau, 67.3% of Longboat residents were 65 or older as of April 2010. rector of Sarasota County Openly Plans for Excellence (SCOPE), who recently spoke about aging issues at the Longboat Key Public Interest Committee (PIC) 25th anniversary celebration, said that Longboat Key and Sarasota County are part of the larger trend of an aging worldwide population.

“We’re just ahead of the curve,” Dutton said.

Longboat Key Mayor Jim Brown said that the numbers did not surprise him, although he had heard anecdotal evidence that younger people were increasingly buying property on the island. He said that the latest numbers highlight the po-

2010

4,100

MALE

FEMALE

7,603

MEDIAN AGE

2,050

2,050

70.4

2010

67.9

2000

3,188 (46.3%)

AGE RANGES Age ranges Under 5 5 to 9 10 to 14 15 to 19 20 to 24 25 to 34 35 to 44 45 to 54 55 to 59 60 to 64 65 to 74 75 to 84 85 and up

2000

4,100

FEMALE

6,888

2000

ger drive, along with healthcare concerns. But it can also bring benefits. Technology related to independent living is expected to become a $20 billion industry by 2020, Dutton said.

“This has the potential to be a real economic driver,” he said.

Brown said that Longboat Key’s older residents tend to stand out from those in other areas with an aging population.

“I would be willing to bet that Longboat Key’s older population is much more active than your average older population,” Brown said. “I think Longboat Key is a place where people age well.”

Sexes

NUMBER OF RESIDENTS 2010

tential need for amenities that have been discussed in recent months, such as a town center that could incorporate an assisted-living facility.

“I think we need to have the services that people in that age group need,” Brown said.

Vice Mayor David Brenner pointed to both the increasing age and drop of Longboat Key’s population as evidence of the need for revitalization.

“We’ve got to reverse that trend by bringing younger people in,” he said.

According to Dutton, an aging population poses challenges, such as transit issues when residents can no lon-

MALE

Longboat Key’s median age rose by two-and-a-half years in the last decade, to 70.4 on April 1, 2010, compared to 67.9 on April 1, 2000, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

The percentage of residents ages 65 and up rose to 67.3%, from 58.3% in 2000.

The percentage of residents ages 85 and up rose by 46%, with 8.2% of residents age 85 or older in April 2010, compared to 5.1% in April 2000.

The island, which experienced a 9.4% decline in population over the past decade according to the census, lost residents in every age group from ages 15 through 74.

Tim Dutton, executive di-

2010 39 58 62 64 50 75 137 443 462 860 2,275 1,795 568

2000 51 54 49 72 42 106 329 796 707 962 2,359 1,687 389

% Change -23.5% 7.4% 26.5% -11.1% 19.0% -29.2% -58.4% -44.3% -34.7% -10.6% -3.6% 6.4% 46.0%

3,700 (53.7%)

3,532 (46.5%)

4,071 (53.5%)

HOUSEHOLDS

2010

2000

% Change

Family households

2,538

2,845

-10.8%

Married-couple households

2,451

2,751

-10.9%

109 1,345 1,198

138 1,435 1,291

-21% -6.3% -7.2%

2,988 3,883

2,916 4,280

2.5% -9.3%

Households with children under 18 Non-family households Householders living alone Households with individuals over 65 Total

Housing units

2010

2000

Change

Owner-occupied Renter-occupied TOTAL OCCUPIED HOUSING UNITS

3,578 (40.6%) 305 (3.5%) 3,883 (44.1%)

3,928 (44.5%) 352 (4.0%) 4,280 (47.3%)

-8.9% -13.4% -9.3%

4,397 (49.9%) 291 (3.3%) 11 (0.1%) 120 (1.4%) 21 (0.2%) 91 (1.0%) 4,931 (55.9%) 8,814

4,197 (47.5%) N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 4,554 (51.6%) 8,834

4.8% N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 8.3% -0.3%

Occupied housing units

Vacant housing units

For seasonal, recreational or occasional use For rent Rented, not occupied For sale only Sold, not occupied Other TOTAL VACANT HOUSING UNITS TOTAL HOUSING UNITS

Courtesy photo

Bob Twyman joined the Kiwanis Club of Longboat Key in 1991.

Bob Twyman gave voice to Key issues Robert “Bob” Twyman didn’t have the loudest voice on the Longboat Key Town Commission. But, during his term, his voice guided the island through many key issues.

“He wasn’t the guy making a lot of noise,” said former Mayor Jim Brown, who served as mayor during Twyman’s commission term. “But he was really involved and knew what he was talking about.”

Twyman died Monday, May 9. He was 88.

Born Feb. 25, 1923, he lived in Ohio and Indiana and served in the U.S. Army and later became a longtime associate with IBM. Twyman and his wife, Mary JoAnn, purchased a unit at Longboat Harbour in 1984.

Twyman went on to serve on the Longboat Key Town Commission from 1991 to 1993, and according to friend and fellow former Commissioner Chuck Savidge, Twyman was instrumental in guiding a search for a new town manager and eventually hiring Griff Roberts in 1993.

“He was very dedicated and interested in serving on the Key,” Savidge said.

But Twyman’s voice was heard outside of Town Commission chambers.

He was a Kiwanis Club of Longboat Key member since 1991 and was known for asking tough questions whenever the group hosted a politician as a speaker. He served as president of the Republican Club of Longboat Key in 1999, for which he was known for his patriotism and conservative beliefs.

“Bob was politically conservative, and firm in his belief of limited government,” said John Wild, Kiwanis Club secretary and Republican Club member. “I can still visualize him passing out pocket copies of the Constitution and Declaration of Independence to the Kiwanis and GOP club members, reminding all of his core belief in the American Republic.”

He was proud of his heritage and the fact that he was a descendant of Thomas Jefferson and spent hours at libraries, doing genealogical research.

Although Twyman’s strong, steady voice impacted the island, it wasn’t the only way that his presence was felt. He served the community in other ways, ringing the Salvation Army bell during the holidays for the Kiwanis Club and flipping pancakes at Kiwanis Club pancake breakfasts and remained active until the final weeks of his life.

Twyman was preceded in death by his wife, Mary JoAnn. He is survived by his son, Bradley; and stepchildren John Wey, Deborah Wey, Mark Wey and Karen Miller.

Plans for a memorial service have not been announced. Toale Brothers Funeral Homes is responsible for arrangements.

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

NEWSBRIEFS

4A

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

+ Commission schedules beach meeting Town Manager Bruce St. Denis has two special meetings planned for the Longboat Key Town Commission this month.

Susan Phillips, assistant to the town manager, confirmed the Town Commission would hold a special meeting at 9 a.m. Friday, May 27, to examine a peer review by Dr. Kevin Bodge, whom the town hired to review the town’s Comprehensive Beach Management Plan.

The commission asked for the peer review to get a second opinion about its beach plan to make sure it is still effective for the town.

The Town Commission will also hold a special meeting to discuss the Bayfront Park concept plan at 1 p.m.

Friday, May 13.

+ Village peacocks deemed sanitary The Longboat Key Town Commission asked staff to have the Manatee

TOP FIVE

The most read stories online last week were: 1. Colony extension granted (May 4) 2. Photo gallery: Sarasota Open finals (May 1) 3. Longboat Key Cops Corner (May 4) 4. Video: 40-Love (April 27) 5. Commission grants Colony request (May 2)

A Cleaned Cast Iron Pipe

Don’t Speculate...

Investigate!

 Town Commission Regular Meeting — 7 p.m. Monday, June 6.  Zoning Board of Adjustment Regular Meeting — 9:30 a.m.

Thursday, June 9.  Code Enforcement Board Regular Meeting — 1 p.m. Thursday, June 16.

All meetings take place at Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road. lay district for the area would create a more vibrant town-center concept that would attract residents to the area and create a better sense of community for the island.

52039

Observer

TO E-MAIL US:

ADDRESS: 5570 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, Fla., 34228 PHONE: 941-383-5509 | FAX: 941-383-7193 | WEBSITE: www.YourObserver.com





E-mail press releases, announcements and photos to: longboatnews@yourobserver.com E-mail Letters to the Editor to: longboatletters@yourobserver.com

TO ADVERTISE:

 Town Commission Regular Workshop — 1 p.m. Thursday, May 26.

A Public Hearing before the Planning and Zoning Board on the ordinance will be held on May 17, 2011, at 9:00 a.m., or as soon thereafter as may be heard, at the Town Commission Chambers, Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key, Florida. All interested persons may appear and be heard with respect to the proposed amendment. Copies of the proposed amendment and related material may be viewed prior to the hearing at the Planning, Zoning & Building Department, 501 Bay Isles Road, between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. weekdays. Questions may be directed to the Planning, Zoning & Building Department at 316-1966. The proposed amendment will affect property within the corporate boundaries of the Town of Longboat Key as shown on the map appearing at the bottom of this advertisement. No verbatim record by a certified court reporter is made of these proceedings.

Accordingly, any person who may seek to appeal any decision involving the matters noticed herein will be responsible for making a verbatim record of the testimony and evidence at these proceedings upon which any appeal is to be based (see Section 286.0105, F.S.). In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, F.S., persons needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact the Town Clerk’ s office at 941-316-1999 forty-eight (48) hours in advance of this proceeding. If you are hearing impaired, please call 941-373-7002.

BJ Webb, Chair Planning and Zoning Board Published 5/11/11

CIPP (Cured In Place Pipe)

LONGBOAT



 Planning and Zoning Board Regular Meeting — 9 a.m. Tuesday, May 17.

Please take notice that a public hearing will be held to consider the following ordinance: ORDINANCE 2011-16 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING CODE OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY, FLORIDA, AMENDING CHAPTER 158, ZONING CODE, ARTICLE IV GENERAL REGULATIONS, DIVISION 2. LOT YARD AND BULK REGULATIONS, BY AMENDING SECTION 158.150 YARD REGULATIONS, BY AMENDING SECTION 158.150(C) TRANSITION YARD REQUIREMENTS TO REMOVE THE REGULATION OF TRANSITION YARDS FROM THIS SECTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 158.154 SCREENING REGULATIONS, BY REPLACING SECTION 158.150(A) TO AMEND THE REQUIREMENTS FOR SCREENING AND BUFFERING IN ABUTTING NONRESIDENTIAL AND RESIDENTIAL YARDS AND IN ABUTTING MULTIFAMILY AND SINGLE-FAMILY YARDS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

CFC58001



&

TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY PUBLIC HEARING -– MAY 17, 2011- 9:00 AM

FIX FIX

The Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Board gave town staff direction at a special meeting Thursday, May 5, to allow a retirement community facility as a use for a town center overlay district Comprehensive Plan amendment it’s crafting for the area of Avenue of the Flowers and Bay Isles Road.

The planning board hopes an over-

Meetings agendas

56918

800.849.4610 www.sleuthpt.com

+ Retirement center concept gains traction

County Health Department look into possible health issues with the peacocks in the Village.

Thomas Larkin, environmental manager for the Manatee County Health Department, visited the Village May 2 and reported in an email that the

The Things You DON’T See Are The Most Important…

25 Years of Scaling and Clogging

peacocks aren’t considered “a sanitary nuisance.”

“In summary, I did not observe conditions created by the peacock bird population that represented a sanitary nuisance,” Larkin wrote in a May 2 email to Public Works Department Director Juan Florensa.

Commissioner Pat Zunz, a Land’s End resident, told Town Manager Bruce St. Denis the reason Larkin didn’t observe any unsanitary conditions is because the residents make it a point to hose down their walkways and driveways.

YourObserver.com



Display Advertising: To obtain information, call Donna Condon at 941-366-3468, Ext. 301.

Advertisers also may obtain all Observer Group Inc. advertising rates and editorial calendars online at www.YourObserver.com.

Classified Advertising/Service Directory: For information and rates, see the classified adver-

tising section, or call 941-955-4888. Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. To place a classified ad online, e-mail your ad to Pam Cooper, pcooper@yourobserver.com.



FREE HOME DELIVERY & SUBSCRIPTIONS

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.

Mail Delivery Subscription rates: Standard First-Class One year / $75 One year / $150 Six months / $50 Six months / $100 Three months / $30 Three months / $50

Canada One year / $185 Six months / $95 Three months / $45

Europe One year / $395 Six months / $200 Three mos. / $100

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

by the book

TURF WAR

by Robin Roy | Staff Writer

5A

by Kurt Schultheis | City Editor

Circle to see stricter Resident hedges his code enforcement bets against grass issue The city will send a code enforcement officer to St. Armands Circle once a month to catch violations of the city code, such as café tables on the sidewalk and excessive business signs.

A Longboat Key resident thinks the 20-foot-tall bamboo stalks beside his home are not a hedge and should be trimmed to adhere to the town’s grass-height code.

When the economy tanked in Sarasota, St. Armands Circle leaders asked that the city give a little leeway when it came to code enforcement.

They wanted to allow businesses to display a few more signs, place sales racks outside or have some dining tables encroaching slightly on the sidewalk.

But now that crowds have returned to the Circle, stricter code enforcement is once again being sought.

At the May 10 Business Improvement District meeting, the city offered to hire a part-time code enforcement official if the BID would help fund that new position.

“It’s not in our budget,” said Marty Rappaport, BID chairman. “But that’s not an excuse not to enforce. The city needs to do its job.”

The major complaints are restaurants putting tables outside that block the sidewalks, excessive signs in windows, sandwich-board signs and sales racks being placed outside front doors.

Circle leaders fear that business owners are getting used to a lack of enforcement.

“We need to corral everyone back in,” said Diana Corrigan, St. Armands Association executive director.

The BID asked that the city conduct code-enforcement activities once a month on the Circle.

LBK 2010 -theI city’s neighborhood Tim Litchet, services and development director, agreed to allocate one of his three en-

The root of the problem for one Longboat Key resident is whether the 20-foottall bamboo behind beside his home is classified as a grass or a hedge.

The answer would determine whether the bamboo should be trimmed to 1 foot or be allowed to remain as is.

“If bamboo is a grass, it can’t be more than 12 inches long or it’s a town code violation,” Kertzer said.

Kertzer says the bamboo towers over his home and should be cut down. Kertzer says Robert Krosney and his wife, Reina Berman, refuse to cut the other side of the bamboo, which sits in their yard.

Town planner Steve Schield, however, said there is no issue with the bamboo.

“Bamboo is not a typical turf grass, but it’s a part of the grass family,” Schield said.

“In my opinion, bamboo grown in that manner would be considered a hedge plant because it’s not a turf. Hedges that sit in Longboat Key side yards have no town regulations.”

Kertzer, however, is upset with Schield’s opinion of the bamboo and wants some regulation on the bamboo, which he says is invasive, infiltrating his property and destroying his plants.

Kertzer is also upset that Krosney called the Longboat Key Police Department April 14, to complain that he was cutting the bamboo near the property line.

Kertzer believes it’s a conflict of interest for Krosney, chairman of the Longboat Key Code Enforcement Board, to call in

Robin Roy

Beginning this month, the city will crack down on any code-enforcement violations on St. Armands Circle, such as café tables that encroach on the public right of way.

forcement officers to visit the Circle for one full day each month to seek out violations and issue fines for repeat offenders.

The new enforcement will begin this month.

“We may start with more than once a month at the beginning, so people see we’re out there,” said Litchet.

BID members were pleased, because they believe there is a risk if code enforcement remains lax.

“Sixty-four percent of the people who come to Sarasota visit St. Armands,” said Rappaport. “If it starts to become shabby, it won’t be as big a draw.”

Kurt Schultheis

A Longboat Key resident is questioning whether the 20-foot-tall bamboo on the side of his house is a grass or a hedge.

complaints that could lead to an agenda item for the code board to review.

Town attorney David Persson however, said it’s not an issue for Krosney to make complaints. But if a complaint made by any member of the code board were brought forth for the board to review, that member would have to recuse himself from making a decision on the matter.

Krosney told the Longboat Observer he made the April 14 complaint, because Kertzer was cutting bamboo that was planted on Krosney’s property.

“There are no side yard hedge height requirements on Longboat Key,” Krosney said.

BUYING GOLD

ENCLOSE YOUR LANAI

Instant Cash

Save

Sell your old gold while gold prices are at an all time historical high!

.. .

SELL US YOUR BROKEN AND UNWANTED GOLD Each Diamond carries its own certificate.

1.82 carat $

$

3.16 carat $

4590

4.12 carat

6599

$

Acrylic Glass Impact Glass

No more dusty lanais that require constant maintenance.

Operating doors and windows let you enjoy clean fresh air while bringing the outside inside your home!

2.54 carat

2150

10%

PROTECT THE WEAKEST OPENING IN YOUR HOME!

11,900

Protect your home while saving on heating and cooling costs with our Code Approved garage doors.

Select from a wide variety of styles and colors.

1.00 carat

5.01 carat

990 !

14,500

four generations J E W E L R Y

With garage door system purchase.

Call Today!

C O M P A N Y

YOUR TRUSTED HOMETOWN JEWELER FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED Corner of U.S. 41 & Bee Ridge Rd.

Across from Saks Fifth Ave.

All carat weights are total and may vary by 5%. Sale prices exclude existing layaways, trade-ins,and special orders. Quantites vary by store.

Expires 3-31-2011 05-31-2011

941.925.1390

Restrictions apply.

Cannot be combined with other offers.

GC# 1518597

50005

Special Purchase

$

42802

$

6A

LONGBOAT Observer

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 Photographer / Rachel O’Hara, rohara@yourobserver.com Director of Advertising / Jill Raleigh, jraleigh@yourobserver.com Advertising Executives / Tracy Bender, tbender@yourobserver.com; Suzanne Munroe, smunroe@yourobserver.com; Kathleen O’Hara, kohara@yourobserver.com; Laura Ritter, lritter@yourobserver.com; Lori Ruth, lruth@yourobserver.com; Kenji Trujillo, ktrujillo@yourobserver.com; Maria Witty, mwitty@yourobserver.com Account Manager / Victoria Baga, vbaga@ yourobserver.com Classified Advertising Supervisor / Pam Cooper, pcooper@yourobserver.com Classified Advertising Sales Executive / Maureen Hird, mhird@yourobserver.com Advertising-Production Operations Manager / Kathy Payne, kpayne@ yourobserver.com Advertising-Production Coordinator / Brooke Schultheis, bschultheis@ yourobserver.com Advertising Graphic Designers / Monica DiMattei, mdimattei@yourobserver.com; Shawna Polana, spolana@yourobserver.com; Marjorie Holloway, mholloway@yourobserver. com; Luis Trujillo, ltrujillo@yourobserver.com Multimedia Production Manager / Caleb Stanton, cstanton@yourobserver.com Circulation/Admin. Assistant / Patti Colby, pcolby@yourobserver.com Chief Financial Officer / Laura Keisacker, lkeisacker@yourobserver.com Accounting Manager / Lori Downey, ldowney@yourobserver.com Accounting Assistant / Kathy Klein, kklein@ yourobserver.com Founders: Ralph, Claire and Janet Hunter, 1978-1995

©Copyright The Observer Group Inc. 2011 All Rights Reserved

The Observer Group Inc. Locally Owned

Publishers of The Longboat Observer, The East County Observer, The Sarasota Observer, The Palm Coast Observer, Season magazine and Gulf Coast Business Review

Chairman / David Beliles Editor and CEO / Matt Walsh Vice President / Lisa Walsh

5570 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key, Fla. 34228 941/383-5509 www.YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, May 12, 2011

opinion | our view

Right turns in the Legislature Gov. Rick Scott, a Tallahassee outsider despised in the media and willing to take unpopular stands on principle, had a surprising amount of success during his first legislative session as governor.

He demonstrated the tough negotiating skills that helped him so much in business, and now those skills are in play for the benefit of the people of Florida — if not, perhaps, for many special interests that formerly held sway.

Scott and the Legislature pushed an agenda of smaller government and a better job-creating climate from which Floridians will benefit, even if they are not part of powerful lobbying groups.

The session provided a balanced $69.67 billion budget by closing a $3.8 billion gap entirely through reduced spending. That is important because it means that state government shrank and so the burden of supporting it by individuals and businesses also shrank. In a time of trying to get some momentum going for a sustained economic recovery, that is critically important.

Through diligent persuasion and an unwillingness to cave early, Scott was even able to get a decrease in corporate income taxes.

Remember, while these taxes are called “corporate,” don’t think big fat-cat corporations.

They are on any profitable businesses in the state, including the one that employs you.

Scott and some legislators refer to this year’s work as only “a start.” We are hoping they keep pushing for reduced taxes and regulations and will dump the targeted tax cuts and incentives that would be unnecessary if the overall business climate were friendly enough.

Here is a brief overview of what went right during the legislative session. We will be expanding on several of these issues in coming weeks as the details emerge. + The budget. Of course, the biggest issue each year, particularly in years with declining revenues, is the budget. By balancing it and lowering taxes, state government is smaller and leaner.

The balancing came through spending cuts, including a $1.3 billion cut to public education, or about $540 per student. However, for local districts, much of that expense is offset by an $859 million savings in teacher pension plans.

Specifically, the pension changes start the process of bringing public employee benefits nearer to the reality of the private sector. The state’s 650,000 employees, including teachers, for the first time will have to contribute 3% of their pay toward their pensions. While in reality that is a take-home pay cut, state employees remain in an enviable situation compared to most private-sector workers, who are responsible for building their own retirement savings through 401(k) plans.

Another big budget cut was to reduce reimbursements to hospitals by 12% — $510 million — to reign in state Medicaid costs. The media reports these as deep cuts that hospi-

tals will somehow have to absorb. But if Scott had not made the cuts or increased funding, his first name would have been “former hospital executive” and it would be insinuated that he was giving goodies to cronies. That’s how the media agenda works, and Scott has been right to go around the mainstream, despite the howling. Plus the cuts spared two programs serving the catastrophically sick, aged and disabled. + Taxes. Scott wanted $459 million in corporate tax cuts, cutting the rate from 5.5% to 3%. The tax cuts are part of his plan for revving up the state economy and creating jobs using the Arthur Laffer/Milton Friedman concept of freeing up businesses from the bottom up rather than the Keynesian model of top-down government spending and more deficits.

Lawmakers, however, did not have the stomach to make the short-term cuts necessary to cover the tax cuts and were not going to provide any. But Scott held out and eventually got lawmakers to agree to move toward him.

That first move increases the threshold that triggers the tax from $5,000 in profits to $25,000. That knocks out nearly half of the state’s companies, but only achieved a $30 million reduction in tax revenue. That’s because it only helps the smallest companies — not big business, as will be charged because, you know, Republicans are in bed with big business. Right. Check the facts.

This should fairly be labeled a “small-business” tax break, because the big corporations will still be paying plenty of taxes. But this is the kind of unshackling that can help thousands of small businesses feel free enough to expand and hire workers.

The budget also reduced property taxes a small amount through a $210 million reduction in water-management district funds. The water management districts have been sitting on millions in reserve funds without choosing to reduce property taxes in the go-go years. So the Legislature did. + Growth management. This is a major change, rolling back some of the most expensive time-eating regulations from the state’s 1985 growth-management law. The bill repeals concurrency, which was the law that required developers to pay for infrastructure such as roads upfront on major projects.

Concurrency eliminated smaller developers with big dreams and killed a lot of projects — and jobs — because bureaucratic car-counters in Tallahassee could not be satisfied.

Speaking of which, the bill also gets rid of state oversight of major land-planning decisions. Previously, an elected county commission could approve a change to the comprehensive plan to allow a new development the commissioners saw as beneficial to the community, but a bureaucrat in Tallahassee could rule it was not an adequate plan.

That was always a bad setup. Let local elected officials decide, and then voters can decide on elected officials.

+ Education. Officially, K-12 spending was cut 7.5% to $1.35 billion, or about $542 per student. Those are the numbers generally used and misused. But there are two huge caveats: First, school districts statewide will save $859 million through the new requirement that teachers must contribute 3% of their pay to their retirement funds.

The second caveat is that the state wisely required school districts to set aside $554 million in federal stimulus money last year, which can be applied this year against the reductions. Combined, these two caveats mean that real school-district cuts amount to only 1.25%, or $85 per student — nothing like the hyperbole being reported.

Now as to actual education, the Legislature increased the number of charter schools; expanded the state’s “opportunity scholarship” program giving children in failing public schools the chance to go to better schools; made it easier to fire crummy teachers; and made teachers more accountable, allowing 50% of teachers’ merit pay to be based on students’ performance. + Election law changes. This is another bill where the hyperbole of opponents just does not match the law. It was called a rollback of voting rights, disenfranchisement of minorities and racist. For instance, one rule change that was attacked was requiring third-party voter-registration groups to register with the state and file reports. After the corruption we’ve all witnessed by groups such as ACORN, this sort of change was necessary to ensure the validity of the process.

The law also requires voters who want to change their name or address at the poll to cast a provisional ballot, which is then verified and counted later — if it is legal. This should make voting multiple times more difficult. A perfectly valid safeguard. + Unborn baby protections. A woman wanting an abortion now must get an ultrasound first. The goal is to give a full set of facts, not hazy verbiage such as “choice” that obscures the underlying reality. Let a mom see the baby she wants to do away with.

Another new law also makes it harder for pregnant teens to be moved to a different area of the state to get an abortion without parental notification and to get waivers from the notifying parents. A parent must be told if a child is given an aspirin, but not if a child is having an abortion? Wrong. + Amendments. One amendment lowers the cap voters approve on annual increases in non-homesteaded property-tax assessments from 10% to 5%.

Another gives first-time homeowners an added exemption that discounts a home’s assessed value by 50% in the first year, which would then phase out over five years.

And in an attempt to reinvigorate states rights and repudiate Obamacare, there will be an amendment that would state that no law can “compel, directly or indirectly, any person or employer to purchase, obtain, or otherwise provide for health care coverage.”

longboat KEY | GOVERNMENT

Purchase audit a wise precaution Considering all that is unfolding in Sarasota County government — its reputation firmly stained by scandal — Town Manager Bruce St. Denis is smart to be conducting a purchasing audit of his operation.

Being a little proactive can save a lot of reactive that could cost taxpayers money and cost managers their jobs.

ROD The town uses “piggyTHOMSON backing” and credit-card purchasing, the two big areas that have caused four Sarasota County employees to lose their jobs — with more investigations ongoing. One employee has been charged with bribery in connection with purchasing.

Piggybacking is the practice of taking con-

tracted prices for services and products that other municipalities use, rather than going through the full bid process. It is not uncommon, but it can be abused, and apparently was in Sarasota County, where local businesses complained for years they were being locked out of jobs they could have won if the work were not piggybacked for an out-ofarea business.

St. Denis said the town does a lot of piggybacking for contracts, but he sees it as different because of the town’s small size.

And it only uses local contracts to piggyback, whereas Sarasota County was using the process for companies as far away as Wisconsin.

For instance, Longboat might piggyback its manhole maintenance contract with Manatee County, because the town has maybe 30 manholes to deal with in a year whereas Manatee may have 3,000. It makes sense that way to piggyback on the big county contract.

In the same way, the town’s small and intimate size should provide for careful oversight of credit-card usage.

“With the credit cards, you’ve got to be careful. You’ve got to watch,” St. Denis said.

“But we’re so small that the purchasing manager sees every (purchase).”

Nonetheless, St. Denis is having Bradenton-based Shinn & Co. conduct a purchasing audit for the town. The company was already conducting the town’s annual financial audit, and so St. Denis expanded the scope of service to include purchasing.

Smart.

And then, because the public is demanding more transparency in government, the town should post the results online.

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

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

by Kurt Schultheis | City Editor

Town creates wildlife nuisance brochure Works Department Director Juan Florensa and receptionist Donna Spencer researched what kind of educational brochure could be crafted to educate residents about nuisance wildlife, such as raccoons. The brochure will be sent out to utility bill customers in the next couple of months.

The brochure states that “understanding is the key to wildlife problem solving” and that “knowing why the snake is in your garden, the armadillo is digging up your lawn” or “the raccoon is getting into your garbage is an essential first step toward resolving these and other wildlife nuisance problems.”

The majority of the brochure talks about when raccoons appear the most often (at night or early in the morning), the diseases they carry and how to avoid them from knocking over garbage cans.

The brochure warns people not to feed raccoons, because it’s the main reason the animals lose their fear of people. It also states that it’s illegal to feed the animals in Florida.

Overfilling bird feeders and leaving food out for other animals also exacerbates the problem, the brochure states.

Putting out garbage cans in the morning, rather than the night before, also can keep them out of neighborhoods in the middle of the night.

The brochure can also be found at Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road.

by Dora Walters | Senior Editor

Volunteers Benny Parrish and Bus Fischer work together.

Volunteers Ashley Keene and Hunter Hazelton

Photos by Dora Walters

Volunteers make clean sweep on Sister Keys The approximately 80 volunteers, who turned out for the third annual Sarasota Bay Watch Sister Keys Cleanup May 7, were expecting to have more work to do. But they didn’t find as much to clean up as in the past, which is good news for the keys.

In previous years, tires, plastic chairs and even a toilet seat were found. This year, plastic bottles were numerous, and there was a lot of paper trash, but no large items were reported.

David Miller, of Cannons Marina, and Rusty Chinnis, founder of Sarasota Bay Watch, were on hand to transport volunteers from the town dock at Linley Street to the keys. Many, however, chose to paddle their own kayaks — they combined a bit of fun with their volunteering.

After the morning cleanup, volunteers were treated by the Chiles Restaurant Group to lunch at the Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant and Pub.

Quality Meets Beauty LIC. #CFC057548

CPC1458020

FREE and Low Cost Spay and Neuter for • Feral and Community Cats • Your cats

To qualify you must reside in Sarasota or Manatee County

CALL TODAY! 941-366-2404 Ask for Michelle

Support spay and neuter

CALL NOw!

54876

2542 17th St., Sarasota, FL 34234 (941) 366.2404

www.catdepot.org

Open 7 days a week

Mon. – Fri.: 11am – 7pm • Sat. & Sun. 11am – 5pm

We Have

available thru our head professional

Golf Logix GPS Ask about our Seasonal Membership

We’re Now

accepting Golf outings for 2011

Summer Rates $

21 Weekdays

$

26 Weekends

AFTER 3PM $

15 Weekdays

$

21 Weekends

We Accept All Summer Discount Cards 57024

778-5622

The annual cleanup is presented in cooperation with the town of Longboat Key, the Chiles Restaurant Group and Sarasota Bay Watch.

Golf Lessons

Visit our Holmes Beach Showroom 401 Manatee Avenue, Holmes Beach

www.lapenseeplumbing.com

Marjorie Floyd finds plastic bottles to add to her trash bag.

Restaurant Open Breakfast & Lunch 6:30am-dark 57051

The town of Longboat Key has created a brochure called “A Citizen’s Guide to Nuisance Wildlife,” in an attempt to inform residents how to keep critters away from their neighborhoods.

Vice Mayor David Brenner and Commissioner Lynn Larson have pushed for some sort of education about nuisance wildlife ever since Emerald Harbor resident Weldon Frost warned the Longboat Key Town Commission last year that raccoons were a big problem on the Key. In November, Frost approached the commission at its workshop, looking for help with what he perceives is a raccoon population that’s getting out of control.

Frost sent an e-mail to Town Manager Bruce St. Denis outlining his concerns.

“They are a nuisance because of the messes they make and the piles of manure they leave behind,” Frost wrote. “They are a menace because of the diseases they carry — not necessarily limited to rabies.”

“I haven’t seen a bird in Joan Durante Park in months,” Frost said last year. “I suggest to you that we have a serious problem.”

But the commission believed it shouldn’t get into the pest-control business.

Brenner and Larson, however, kept pushing for the town to do something.

Over the last couple of months, Public

NATURAL PRESERVATION

6600 River Club Blvd. Bradenton, FL 34202 • 751-4211

No INterest UNtIl may 2012! Next Day DelIvery avaIlable!*

NASA TECHNOLOGY Memory Foam Mattress Why pay $2,000 – $4,000?

Queen Mattress

$

399

Why pay more?

BRADENTON SARASOTA 1100 West Cortez Rd. Corner of 41 and Cortez Next to Office Depot

749-6069 www.furnwarehouse.com

Mon.-Sat. 9-9 Sun. 11-6

*with approved credit NEW LOCATION

VENICE

PORT CHARLOTTE

ELLENTON

485-3211

764-8700

Outlet Mall

550 S. Seaboard Ave. 4027 N. Washington 5814 18th St East Just North Of Venice Nissan on U.S. 1241 El Jobean Rd. 1 Mile South of 41 Bypass (776 across from Sam’s) Across from the Ellenton University on 301

351-8600 Mon.-Sat. 9-9 Sun. 11-6

Mon.-Sat. 9-6 Sun. 11-6

Mon.-Sat. 9-9 Sun. 11-6

479-7900

56617

longboat literature

7A

Mon.-Sat. 9-9 Sun. 11-6

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

+ Nattily-dressed man about town Thomas Quigley wore his “lucky suit” Saturday, May 7, at the Kentucky Derby party at the Sarasota Yacht Club.

Quigley proudly announced that he had worn the same suit to the 1941 Kentucky Derby, during which he bet $5 on a horse named Whirlaway.

Whirlaway won the Kentucky Derby that year.

Photos by Dora Walters

Michael Drake and new Longbeach Village Association President Frank O’Brien

+ Longbeach Village Association says goodbye for summer Frank O’Brien was installed as president of the Longbeach Village Association May 5, at a meeting held at the home of past President Michael Drake. Instead of a gavel, Drake presented O’Brien with a hand-carved cedar dagger, a symbol of the Spanish invasion of the Key. Other officers are Verna Ritter, vice president; Carol Weiss, secretary; Virginia Luke, secretary; and board members Tom Arthur and Phoebe Shaw.

Also at the meeting, a $500 check was presented to Anthony Cucci, of the Chiles Group, to assist with the public fireworks presentation July 2. The next association meeting will be held in October.

Virginia Sanders was recently recognized by the Longboat Key Garden Club for 20 years of dedication to the organization and to environmental issues. ”She has been active in so many areas,” said club President Jackie Salvino said. “She is always in charge of the club’s Arbor Day observances, and Virginia has also been instrumental in the town’s tree-planting program.”

Sanders also helped initiate the town’s recycling program.

A brick with her name has been placed in the Butterfly Garden at Bicentennial Park next to Town Hall. Other club members recognized with bricks are Penny Rosenthal and Marjorie Boulware, also for 20 years, and Claudia Fuller for her contributions to the Butterfly Garden.

Longboaters’ LIBRARY List Here is a look at the top-10 books Longboaters read last month at the Longboat Library, 555 Bay Isles Road. The Longboat Library switched to its summer hours May 1 and is open from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Monday through Saturday.

• “Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother,”

by Amy Chua • “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks,” by Rebecca Skloot • “Live Wire,” by Harlan Coben • “The Hidden Man,” by David Ellis • “Edge,” by Jeffrey Deaver • “Gone Tomorrow,” by Lee Child • “Toys,” by James Patterson • “Strategic Moves,” by Stuart Woods • “The Saturday Big Tent Wedding Party,” by Alexander McCall Smith • “Heartwood,” by Belva Plain All of these books are available at the Longboat Library.

NEW SELECTIONS • “The Land of Painted Caves: A

Courtesy photo

Novel,” by Jean M. Auel

• “Sixth Man,” by David Baldacci • “Fifth Witness,” by Michael

+ Couple celebrates 63 years together Margot and Warren Coville celebrated their 63rd anniversary April 18. They were married in Detroit and have resided in the area for 17 years.

They attended the Temple Beth Israel Passover community Seder at the Longboat Key Club with their three daughters.

Connelly • “King’s Speech,” by Mark Logue, on audio CD • “The Best Advice I Ever Got,”

by Katie Couric, on audio CD

From left: Claudia Coville, Margot and Warren Colville, Lynn Coville and Betsy Coville.

Strom

Eye Center When you want to see your best.

941-365-9700 2020 S. Tamiami Trail

2020

OUR TOWN

+ Garden Club recognizes dedicated members

>> Continued from Page 1A

Paul J Strom, Jr., M.D.

Sarasota, Florida 34239

45998 17724

8A

HAVE 401(k) QUESTIONS? LET'S TALK. Richard D Crawford, CFP® Financial Advisor .

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

Member SIPC Member CIPF

56840

Up to 60 Months Special Financing Available**for

www.edwardjones.com

Vinyl Impact Window Replacements

Enjoy a Slice of Sarasota Every Saturday Morning!

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

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

Quality. Experience. Performance. Mullet’s Aluminum and PGT. For a FREE in-home estimate please contact us at (941) 371-3502.

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

Lemon Avenue & Main Street 7 am - 1 pm every Saturday

55437

905 Ponder Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34232

Toll Free 1-877-MULLETS | (941) 371-3502 | www.mulletsaluminum.com

Be sure to visit the Downtown Sarasota Merchants - OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

52928

Fresh Produce • Plants & Flowers Local Seafoods • Prepared Foods • Baked Goods Cheeses & Meats • Local Crafts and more...

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

9A

Maestro, If You Please...

With home sales throughout Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte Counties more vigorous than at any time since mid-2005, prices have reached a threshold where buyers no longer bide their time once they’ve found the right property. As we approach mid-2011, motivated sellers with properties in all price ranges are having no problem finding committed buyers; so long as the properties are priced correctly and all parties agree to the terms of the contract.

Entering into a mutually acceptable contract between a buyer and seller in today’s market has suddenly become something of a feat; one best accomplished through the efforts of a skilled negotiator. Seeing it through to a successful closing requires even more diligence, as too many sales fall apart for lack of it.

Here’s what you need to know to keep your transaction moving toward a smooth and successful closing:

No matter how many real estate sales you’ve ever been involved in, your next one is bound to be different; as no two transactions are ever alike. Each, in its own right, is an intricate process involving so many parts moving simultaneously that your real estate agent must function with the precision of a world-class orchestra conductor. Each individual performer must be coaxed by the maestro into playing brilliantly; then perform in perfect unison with the others. From the first note to the final bar.

6201 Gulf Of Mexico Dr $5,440,000 #A3938329 Bobbi Banan

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

5200 Gulf Of Mexico Dr $4,199,000 #A3935021 Kathy Simonds

Longboat Key 941-383-7591 941-350-5292

1414 N Lake Shore Dr $2,250,000 #A3922121 Linda Dickinson

Sarasota 941-388-4447 941-350-3304

462 Bowdoin Cir $2,200,000 #A3934801 Michele C Burnett

2550 Harbourside Dr # 311 $879,000 #A3919713 Carol Aviles

Longboat Key 941-388-4447 941-356-6777

101 Benjamin Franklin Dr # 84 $574,000 #A3927154 Bryan Flippen

Therefore your most important decision—either as a buyer or seller—is to choose the real estate agent best equipped to help you both successfully negotiate a contract in today’s complicated market; then close on the property. Now is not the time to opt for a part-time agent. If they haven’t been selling full-time, they haven’t kept up with the unique and fast-changing intricacies of this market.

If you don’t fully understand how a real estate transaction gets from Point “A” (a successfully-negotiated contract) to Point “B” (a successful closing), be sure to have your agent explain the process before you get started. An excellent rule of thumb is to also choose an agent whose company can complete as many phases of the transaction under one roof as possible—especially when it comes to procuring a mortgage and clearing title to the property.

The problems that can potentially scuttle a real estate sale are at least as numerous as the number of people involved in the typical transaction.

For every person tasked with a responsibility—from the mortgage originator to the real estate appraiser, home inspector, pest inspector, title officer, insurance agent and numerous other specialists—there are at least as many potential missteps involving timing, communications or follow-up that can threaten the outcome. That’s why it’s to your benefit to have every aspect of the sale managed by a single, unquestionably capable professional—presumably your agent—overseeing an equally proficient squad of top professionals who not only understands your

goals but also have a vested interest in accomplishing them for you.

When you choose an agent from Michael Saunders & Company, you can begin the journey knowing that he or she is backed by such a team.

We hear kudos for the team all the time from our agents and their customers who have recently used them. Were it not for the collaboration between two of our most important core customer services—MSC Mortgage and MSC Title—numerous property transactions might never have closed on time. Or, for that matter, at all.

According to recently rankings compiled and published by the Sarasota Herald-Tribune—from records available through the Sarasota County Clerk of Courts—MSC Mortgage closed successfully on more loans in the Sarasota market than any other locally-based community bank or mortgage originator. Only the nation’s largest banks—including Bank of America and JP Morgan Chase—disbursed a greater volume of new loans. Similarly, MSC Title is one of the leading firms based on the total transactional volume of deals successfully closed. Only a handful of major local law firms and one statewide title agency enjoy greater volume.

There’s absolutely no reason why a valid real estate transaction involving capable and earnest parties should not be brought to an appropriately rousing finale. All you need is a brilliantly conducted performance. Maestro, if you please….

1300 Benjamin Franklin Dr # 1101 Sarasota $4,195,000 #A3935859 941-388-4447 Susan Mcleod 941-928-4445

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

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

7100 Longboat Dr $2,499,000 #A3905119 Ann Martin

Longboat Key 941-388-4447 941-356-7717

1241 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 707 $2,495,000 #A3919693 Michael Moulton

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

Sarasota 941-383-7591 941-928-1542

535 Sanctuary Dr # C208 $1,199,950 #A3928854 Saint Cacchiotti

Longboat Key 941-383-7591 941-809-0787

530 Birdie Ln $995,000 Michael Moulton

#A3929970

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

601 Longboat Club Rd # 1103S Longboat Key $924,000 #A3940481 941-383-7591 Sylvia Zimmerman & Marlene Liberman 941-350-5022

340 S Palm Ave # 54 $899,000 #A3935110 Audrey Singer

Sarasota 941-383-7591 941-350-2588

1425 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 204 $679,000 #A3941538 Jenifer Schwell

Longboat Key 941-388-4447 941-780-0968

4825 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 303 $650,000 #A3938393 Kathleen Callender

Longboat Key 941-388-4447 941-321-3115

775 Longboat Club Rd # 202 $650,000 #A3941427 Diane Gregory

Longboat Key 941-388-4447 941-504-2993

7207 Broughton St $649,000 #A3927883 Lee Dillon

Sarasota 941-383-7591 941-928-5012

2425 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 3E $620,000 #A3935734 Mel & Jan Goldsmith

Longboat Key 941-388-4447 941-356-6673

Sarasota 941-383-7591 941-323-8383

2326 Harbour Oaks Dr $549,000 #A3942898 Tammy Lynn Garner

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

100 Sands Point Rd # 123 $549,000 #A3942947 Joan Boltax

Longboat Key 941-951-6660 941-350-6390

1252 Siesta Bayside Dr # B $519,000 #A3923365 Annemarie Boerner

Siesta Key 941-349-3444 941-350-9408

4401 White Cedar Trl $499,900 #A3941580 Sara Chester

Sarasota 941-349-3444 941-737-8234

600 Linley St $489,000 Bobbi Banan

#A3939104

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

1050 Longboat Club Rd # 703 $474,900 #A3940499 Sandi Layfield

Longboat Key 941-383-5502 941-914-2807

5231 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 303 $464,000 #A3937561 Maureen Horn

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

1908 Oleander St $435,000 #A3938229 Marcia Salkin & Paulene Soublis

Sarasota 941-383-7591 941-376-6121

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

Longboat Key 941-383-5502 941-724-7228

2016 Harbourside Dr # 321 $425,000 #A3939640 Hannerle Moore

Longboat Key 941-383-7591 941-387-7300

448 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # A203 $385,000 #A3935180 Diana Kryszak

Longboat Key 941-388-4447 941-993-4078

4621 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 12D $385,000 #A3939337 Richard Perlman

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

5320 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 204 $379,000 #A3916927 Sandi Layfield

Longboat Key 941-383-5502 941-914-2807

7115 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 22 $339,000 #A3900343 Monica Hawkins

Longboat Key 941-951-6660 941-879-7800

225 Sands Point Rd # 7106 $335,000 #A3930788 Craig Abbott

Longboat Key 941-383-7591 941-302-0686

2039 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 205 $299,900 #A3939894 Anna Kaminski

Longboat Key 941-388-4447 941-374-3200

1100 Imperial Dr # 103 $287,000 #A3927065 Michael Nink

Sarasota 941-383-5502 941-914-2805

3453 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 235 $235,188 #A3932766 Eileen Burke

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

1628 Starling Dr # 202 $229,900 #A3920499 John August

Sarasota 941-388-4447 941-320-9795

Vacation Ownership and Rentals LOngbOAt Key 5251 Heron Way # 201 $239,000 #A3938617 Tara Lamb & Judy Greene

Sarasota 941-349-3444 941-266-4873

White Sands of Longboat whitesandsoflongboat.com 800.230.2428

51442

3320 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 107C Longboat Key $244,000 #A3896917 941-383-7591 Doris Bushman 941-383-9253

Veranda Beach Club verandabeachclub.com 800.411.5511

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

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

on the key

participant. Call 383-2466.

Anna Maria Island City Pier Centennial Celebration — begins at 6 p.m. Friday, May 13 with a parade and dedication ceremony and continues from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, May 14, at the City Pier on Bay Boulevard, on Anna Maria. The party will include the “Anna Maria Food and Wine on Pine” event from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., which features area food, wine, music and art. A fireworks show is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. over the bay. Call 778-8705.

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

Al Hixon Jazz Quartet Performance — takes place from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, May 12, at 15 South Ristorante, 15 S. Blvd. of the Presidents, St. Armands Circle.

The event is the group’s final performance of the season. Call 3881555.

Longboat Key Challenge — A preparty will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, May 13. The race begins at 9:30 a.m., and an afterparty takes place at noon Sunday, May 15. Rowers, scullers, kayakers and operators of all humanpowered paddle craft are invited to this event. The course will be seven miles with an alternate three-mile course available. The pre-party takes place at the Longboat Key Center for the Arts, a Division of Ringling College of Art and Design,

 Longboat Key Invitational — takes place from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, May 27, at the Longboat Key Club and Resort’s Islandside golf course, 301 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Registration will open May 21 at longboatkeychamber.com. Cost is $125.

Call 383-2466.

DON’T MISS Ringling College of Art and Design Creatives Exhibit What: The exhibit features the work of Fiore Custode, in the Durante Gallery, and Nathan Skiles, in the Cultural Media Room.

When: May 19 through July 21 Where: Longboat Key Center for the Arts, a Division of Ringling College of Art and Design, 6860 Longboat Drive S. Contact info: 383-2345

File photo

Steve Cosler practices his swing at last year’s Longboat Key Invitational.

6860 Longboat Drive S.; the race begins at the Longboat Key Town Dock in the Longbeach Village; and the after-party takes place at Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub, 760 Broadway. Cost is $35 per

A True Gentleman’s Barbershop with a Sports Theme

LOW COST

VEHICLE, RV, BOAT

Watch your favorite sports on the flat screen TV

Receive $5.00 OFF your first Service with our Master Barber/Stylist, Francisco

• Men’s Manicures & Pedicures with Tina

• WIFI available

• Free Refreshments

• Little Gents Cuts

STORAGE

SECURE, INSIDE, NEAR AIRPORT

Experience the Feeling!

please present this ad for discount

56904

WALK-INS WELCOME - APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

1816 Hillview St., Sarasota, FL 34239 • 953-6767 • T-F 9-6, Sat 8-4

World Ocean Day — takes place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Sunday, June 15, at Mote Marine Aquarium, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway. The event will feature the Dr. Seuss theme, “1, 2 3 and the Seas,” along with games, crafts, prizes, face painting and more. Call 388-4441.

Call RAILSIDE INDUSTRIAL PARK

www.railsideindustrial.com

941-756-1084

55568

COMMUNITYCALENDAR

10A

Dr. Shao is serving the local community with the most powerful advanced Class 4 Laser plus traditional acupuncture

Double Healing Power • Immediate Pain Relief • Solutions to Difficult Cases

China Healing Center, Inc.

TRADE IN YOUR OLD WINDOWS FOR HURRICANE IMPACT WINDOWS

Specializing in: Fibromialgia • Neuropathy • Weight Loss • TMJ • Chronic Pain • Colitis IBS • Shingles • Middle-Moderate Alzheimer • Sinusitis • Herniated Disc … & More

Dr. Frank Shao, O.M.D. / A.P.

48996

with 35 years of clinical practice experience

We also sell, install & service...

WE WILL CREDIT YOU

$100

• Decorative Doors • Hurricane Shutters • O/H Garage Doors • 3M Window Film

PER WINDOW* TOWARD YOUR PURCHASE OF NEW WINDOWS & DOORS! *New orders only — Some restrictions apply.

Offer ends May 30, 2011.

Call or visit today:

Longboat Key Key Show Showroom Longboat Room

Centre Shops, 5930 Gulf of Mexico Drive

383-7600

Bradenton Room Bradenton Show Showroom

www.universalwindowsolutions.com

752-7437 73

Venice - 373-1948

57033

3230 3130 63rd Ave. East

Since 1967 R U O H Y BAR S HAPP 6 PM PECIA 4 TO $ 00 LS EN & R D L I Prem 4 CH ES I T ium D R A P rinks LARGE OME STONE CRAB RESTAURANT WELC

All-U-Can-Eat Stone Crabs

All Day Every Day While They Last!

Come Check Out our Lighter Fare Menu & Bar Appetizer Menu Hours: 11:30 am to 9:30 pm Daily

By Land: 800 Broadway St. • By Sea: Marker 39 on the Waterway North End of Longboat Key • 383-1748 Call Ahead Seating/Reservations for 6 or more

57032

1071 S Tuttle Ave. Ste 1 • Sarasota, FL 941-953-4888 4531 26th St. West • Bradenton, FL 941-727-8081

57016

2 locations to serve you better:

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

Cops

LONGBOAT

Corner

April 27 Ex files 11:07 p.m. — 600 block of Companion Way. Civil Disturbance. A woman told police her ex-boyfriend has been harassing her. Employees at the restaurant she works for notified her he had been there talking about her and bothering a bartender whom he thinks she is dating. The woman plans to file a restraining order.

April 28 That crosses the line 10:44 a.m. — 4300 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive (GMD). Trespassing. A condominium board member told police that a contractor hired by a neighboring condominium was raking their private beach without permission. The contractor apologized for not respecting the property line.

Damage denied 4:09 p.m. — 500 block of Schooner Lane. Property Damage. A homeowner told police that he believes a seawall and dock contractor doing work across the street damaged his mailbox and post by mistake. The contractor denied damaging the mailbox.

April 29 Rightful owner 11:01 a.m. — 100 block of Broadway.

Traffic Violation. A man was pulled over after police determined the car he was driving was stolen. The driver told police he was the owner of the car and that it had been recovered three weeks ago.

11:32 a.m. — 6800 block of GMD. Suspicious Person. A suspicious person was reported lurking around Whitney Beach Plaza. He was laid off by the company placing sand on the beach and left the area once he received his final paycheck.

6:07 p.m. — 1100 block of GMD. Found Property. A resident turned in a sealed envelope addressed to another Key resident that he found on the side of the road.

Police stood by while someone attempted to cut a cable on a kayak that was attached

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

PRESIDENTIAL CONTENDER SERIES DINNER With Rick Santorum A 2012 PRESIDENTIAL CONTENDER SERIES DINNER

With Special Guest, Former U.S. Senator, Fox News Contributor, and Potential Presidential Candidate Rick Santorum.

Wednesday May 25th Private Reception 5:30-6:30 Cocktail Reception 6:30-7:00 Dinner 7:00

All wet

Sign, sealed, delivered

Date night

2011LINDay COLN Dinner

12:43 p.m. — 4000 block of GMD. Traffic Violation. A woman was arrested for driving a car without a valid license. Her learner’s permit expired in 2006.

5:50 p.m. — 5700 block of GMD. Property Damage. A woman told police that something shattered a rear window in her vehicle while she was driving. Police couldn’t figure out what type of object shattered the glass.

9:17 p.m. — 4500 block of GMD. Welfare Check. A woman called police because she was worried about her neighbor, who was out on a first date and wasn’t returning her calls. Police contacted the woman, who said she was fine.

12:42 a.m. 4700 block of GMD. Guard reports attempt to steal soap dispenser. Subjects ran off at guard’s approach.

Looking for validation

Shattered glass

Caller has hang-ups

May 3, 1987

1:46 p.m. — 5400 block of GMD. Found Property. A man turned in a black wallet he found on the Key that belonged to a man from Ocala.

7:16 p.m. — 4300 block of GMD. Boat.

May 3 8:44 p.m. — 500 block of Ranger Lane.

Harassment. A woman told police that a man keeps leaving her harassing voicemails, because he’s afraid she might tell his wife that they had been together.

Almost clean getaway

Safety first

to a safety ladder on a sea wall in a marina.

The cable couldn’t be cut. The kayak was to be removed in the morning.

10:32 a.m. 6800 block of GMD. Traffic Violation. Police learned a man on probation for selling crack was on his way to get gold teeth with a friend — two for him, four for her. “Friends do that for each other,” police were told.

Visitor’s wallet recovered

April 30

3:49 p.m. — 200 block of GMD. Traffic Violation. A man was issued citations and arrested for driving a truck and pulling a trailer without valid tags and without a valid driver’s license.

The golden rule

Last paycheck

12:53 p.m. — 5600 block of GMD. Traffic Violation. Police informed the owner of a landscaping company that she had the improper tag on a trailer. She promised to correct the problem.

No valid tags

April 27, 2002

cal transformer.

Improper identification

2:16 p.m. — 3100 block of GMD. Code Enforcement. A man was told he couldn’t take his dog on the beach or into the Gulf.

The dog’s wet fur was the giveaway.

CLASSIC COPS

11A

Keynote Speaker Rick Santorum

Former U.S. Senator, Fox News Contributor, & potential Republican Candidate for President.

Secondary Speaker

Senate President Mike Haridopolis to present a 2011 Legislative Recap

Co-Hosts:

Senator Nancy Detert, Senator Mike Bennett, Rep Doug Holer, Rep Ray Pilon, Rep Greg Steube, Sheriff Tom Knight, Bill Furst, Larry Eger, County Commissioner Jon Thaxton, County Commissioner Christine Robinson, County Commissioner Nora Patterson

May 1 Ax to grind?

May 2 Explosive incident 12:06 a.m. — 500 block of Spanish Drive South. Suspicious Circumstance. A loud explosion came from a blown electri-

Sign up for a chance to win a FREE TICKET at

www.sarasotagop.com

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL Pamm Behr (941) 918-9780 & Chuck Volkert (941) 925-8660

56844

9:48 a.m. — 1600 block of GMD. Vandalism. A man reported that someone caused $750 worth of damage to his Cadillac by swinging an object at it. The incident caused a dent in the car and scraped off some of the paint.

12A

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

sure bet

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

by Rachel S. O’Hara | Staff Photographer

SYC is well-suited to host Derby party The Sarasota Yacht Club Charitable Foundation hosted its first “Kentucky Derby Party to Benefit a Cancer Cure” Saturday, May 7, at the Sarasota Yacht Club.

The afternoon included a traditional Derby Day buffet, two hi-def screens on which to watch the 137th Derby, a Ladies Hat Contest, a Men’s Wacky Suit Contest, complimentary mint juleps and a betting table. All monies raised from the bets will go to the American Janice Rutkowski Cancer Society.

Alicia Collins and Jes Santaularia were proud to be originally from Louisville, Ky.

SEAFOOD • PASTA • FISH • PASTA • BEEF • SALADS • LOBSTER

Casual Italian Cuisine Hand Tossed Brick Oven Pizza LBK ’S NEIGHB ORHOOD ITALIAN RESTAUR ANT Since 1990

LIA A T I DINNER Nightly 4:30 - 10:00

Early Dining and 2 for 1 Wine or Tap Beer 4:30 - 6 pm Nightly

Located in Mid-Longboat Key in the Centre Shops • 5370 Gulf of Mexico Dr.

Beer & Wine • 383-0010 • Take Out Available

Why We Should Be Your Florida Vacation Connection incipals ese, Pr u n K ichele a o l. c o m an & M : F V c o n n e c t @ e c t i o n . c o m d r o J Jan e - m a il onconn

Diversions Longboat & East County Observers Space Reservation: 11 a.m. Thursday, May 26 Materials Due: 3 p.m. Thursday, May 26

w w w. f l v

Since 1994

acati

3720 Gulf of Mexico Dr. • Longboat Key, FL 34228 941-387-9709

• 99% of our guests state they will rent from us again • Great Vacation Rental Properties • Great Services and Staff • We are the best at what we do

36838 53564

For June 2 nd Observer

Serving Longboat Key Since 1996

Sarasota Observer Space Reservation: 11 a.m. Friday, May 27 Materials Due: 3 p.m. Friday, May 27

All ages, infants to seniors (Medicare accepted) q Visitors, tourists, snowbirds, full-time residents q Worker’s compensation - drug screens, injuries q

Dr. Pamela J. Letts Board Certified Family Physician

• sore throats, colds, coughs, pinkeye, bruises • cuts, bites, allergic reactions, broken bones • lumps, bumps, rashes, burns • blood pressure, acute chest pain, shortness of breath Lab, X-Ray, EKG, Coumadin Testing

Centre Shops Family Practice & Urgent Care 5370 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Suite 205

(941) 387-1211

Monday - Friday 9:00 - 5:00

Appointments Preferred, Walk-ins urgent care only

56950

56924

For more information contact your advertising sales representative. 941.366.3468

MUSSELS • LOBSTER • ANTIPASTO

EARLY MEMORIAL DAY DEADLINES

Dorothy Lawrence wore a red hat she borrowed from The Players Theatre. Lawrence received an honorable mention in the Ladies Hat Contest.

N.J. Logan and Ray McGuire MUSSELS • LOBSTER • ANTIPASTO

Evella Feldhacker and Tami Fox

Photos by Rachel S. O’Hara

50971

Monica Jorque, Bridget Smith and Marcia Dolan

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

13A

HAT’S OFF by Dora Walters | Senior Editor

Tiffany Plaza residents score with Derby party As expected, mint juleps and decorative hats were featured at Barbara and Norm Wilcox’s Kentucky Derby party held May 7, at the Tiffany Plaza. The dinner menu featured traditional “burgoo,” a blend of meats, but Barbara Wilcox jokingly assured guests no possum was served.

At race time, all gathered around the TV to cheer on their favorites. To everyone’s surprise, Animal Kingdom, a horse that had never raced on a dirt track, crossed the finish line two-and-three-fourths lengths ahead for an easy win. Diane Mullihan, Dorothy Williams, Barbara Wilcox and Pat Rutz

Pearl Kushner

Dot Johnston, Mike Mullihan and Mona Mischi Roger Rutz and Norm Wilcox

Photos by Dora Walters

The communities we serve are our most important asset. That’s why it’s important we say:

Join us Friday,

IMG Academies Golf & Country Club Monthly Summer Memberships!

Best Golf Closest to the Island!

May 20,

from 10 to 4, for food, fun and a whole lot of appreciation.

Check out our new website at www.imggcc.com for Special Rates and Upcoming Events!

Groups? Tournaments? Call For Info Weddings, Business Meetings, Casual or Fine Dining Available

Monthly Summer Memberships starting at $100!! Discounts on 3 Months or More Call 941-739-7439 for details!

Our success here in this community depends on your support, and now we are stronger than ever. We want to thank you by inviting you to Community Appreciation Day on Friday, May 20. We also invite you to join us in helping the American Red Cross aid recent storm victims. Our branches are Donation Centers for the American Red Cross. Celebrating and supporting community is what this day is all about.

Please stop by so we can say to you in person: thanks.

$7.00 off Dinner for two!

Offer good through June 30, 2011. Must present coupon. Valid on regular priced dinner menu selections. Tax & gratuity based on full value.

Not Valid on Special events or holidays. LBK

$10.00 off Greens Fees!

Offer good through June 30, 2011. Must present coupon. Valid on Non-Member full golf fee of $40.00. Includes Golf Cart.

LBK Golf Shop

941.758.1464

Dining Reservations

941.758.1467

Golf & Country Club

941.758.1466

Wedding Hotline

941.739.7414

Membership

941.739.7439

Local. Friendly. Superior.

Sarasota / 941-365-5934 Bradenton / 941-714-0800

www.imggcc.com

57113

© 2011 Superior Bank. Member FDIC. www.superiorbank.com

57010

4350 El Conquistador Parkway Bradenton FL 34210

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

obituaries

by Dora Walters | Senior Editor

Bird Key Yacht Club presents multilayered fashion show

Alan George Braxton, 72, of Longboat Key and formerly of University Park and Lehigh-onSea, England, died May 2.

Mr. Braxton was a retired chartered accountant and enjoyed playing tennis and his clarinet.

Mr. Braxton is survived by his wife, Ronda; children, Vic-

Saks Fifth Avenue’s Fifth Avenue Club presented a fastpaced fashion show April 28, at Bird Key Yacht Club. Presented in three sections, the show featured attire for casual wear, luncheon wear and a dazzling selection for evening.

Club members were models.

Two models, Rebecca Taylor and Barbara Sanandres, were joined by their husbands, David and Lou. Rebecca Event co-chairwomen and David were Jean Zakovec and Taylor Gaye Schwartz. About 170 people attended.

Photos by Dora Walters

WORSHIP SERVICES 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. 3838833.

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

The Episcopal Church on Longboat Key

563 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key All are welcome. Please join us in worship!

Harbour Square 4134 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Suite #210 Longboat Key, FL 34228

383-8161

Communion & Anointing

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

595 Bay Isles Road

Mediterranean Plaza

Bay Isles Pkwy.

Publix - CVS

A

Gulf of Mexico Drive

www.christchurchoflbk.org

941-778-0414

www.roserchurch.com

Temple Beth Israel

CATHOLIC CHURCH

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

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

56203

Jo in

U s!

Fourth Friday of the Month, 5:30 pm Saturday Morning, 10:00 am Please visit our Judaica Shop

• 41..org

Confession before all weekend Masses Msgr. Gerard Finegan, Pastor

Celebrating 100 years of Service in 2013

512 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria

57036

383-8833

Gary Gary A. Batey, Pastor Pastor A non-denominational, traditional non-denominational, traditionalchurch church

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

St. Mary, Star of the Sea,

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

Wednesday 10:00 a.m.

Roser Community Church

INVITES YOU

Music Director: Dan Hoffman

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

Website: www.AllAngelsLBK.org

56928

Office: (941) 383-1717 • Cell: (941) 465-9167

Reverend Dr. Bruce Porter SUNDAY SERVICE • 10:00 A.M. SERMoN: “The Good Eye”

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.

All Angels by the Sea

Loving, Personal Care for Your Dog (All Breeds) Pickup & Delivery Available Dog Sitting Available

of Longboat Key • Presbyterian USA

St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church, 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive, will hold Saturday Masses at 5 p.m. and Sunday Masses at 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. Daily Masses are at 9 a.m. Monday through Friday. Msgr. Gerard Finegan is the pastor. 3831255.

Chris Hersberger

Alicia’s Grooming

Chris ChurCh

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.

55309

Jan Colby and Judy Reed

toria and Mark, both of Lehighon-Sea; stepdaughter, Carol Gertsen, of Potomac, Md.; stepson, John Gertsen, of San Francisco; and two grandchildren.

A service was held Monday, May 9, at Toale Brothers Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Sarasota Orchestra, sarasotaorchestra.org.

56176

Jyette Mandle and JoAnn Iaria

Lou Sanandres

Alan George Braxton

941-778-0414 512 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria 941.383.3428 www.tbi-lbk.org Temple Beth Israel • 567 Bay Isles Road • Longboatwww.roserchurch.com Key, FL • 941.383.3428

567 Bay Isles Road • Longboat Key, FL Roser Community Church

9

56725

dazzling selections

Gary A. Batey, Pastor

A non-denominational, traditional church

Serving The KeyS: Bird/Lido ST. ArmAndS LongBoAT

KEY PLUMBING 366-4555

Sunday 9 AM and 11 AM —Traditional Worship 10 AM —Adult Sunday School & Book Study 9 AM —Children and Youth Church School

24 HOUR SERVICE • • • •

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

Your Longboat Key Plumbers for 34 Years

Certificate # CFC057885

52425

14A

941-778-0414 512 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria www.roserchurch.com

9

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

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2011

gAMES

NEWS

REAL ESTATE

See this week’s weather photo contest winner.

Three-bedroom unit at L’Ambiance sells for $2.4 million.

PAGE 16A.

PAGE 23A.

ENERGETIC TRAVELER

Always plan your campaign before playing your first trick. PAGE 22A.

by Stuart and Lois Scheyer | Travel Editors

This mechanized Apollonia dance organ, on display in the Musical Instrument Museum, is among the largest in the world and was made in 1926 in Belgium.

Photos courtesy of Stuart and Lois Scheyer

Spectacular sights and lights come from the top and bottom of the Kartchner Caverns, in Arizona.

Leisure travelers usually fall into one of only two categories.

First, there is the one who says, “OMG, I have been working so hard that all I want to do is just sit somewhere for as long as possible.” They usually plop down at a resort for two weeks or, if they are slightly adventurous, take a cruise and unpack only once.

The second type of leisure traveler declares, “I want to see things and I’ve got this list that I’ve been keeping for years!” The list usually consists of “destinations.” A destination is somewhere that is so special that vacationers go out of their way to see and then immerse in it.

Examples of large destinations might be Disney World, the Grand Canyon or New York City. But, there are also smaller places that are classified as destinations. These certainly include Niagara Falls, the Eiffel Tower or The Dali Museum, right in our own backyard, in St. Petersburg.

Arizona was the latest stop on our “America(s) the Beautiful” series of great destinations in Mexico, Canada and our own United States. Surprisingly, Arizona has two places that are relatively unknown but certainly should be classified as destinations. One of these is above the ground and the other is deep inside the earth.

Let’s dig deep first and take you to the relatively unknown Kartchner Caverns State Park, located less than an hour’s drive southeast of Tucson, Ariz.

This unique and travelerfriendly cave complex (it is in-

The music of Lithuania and “World of Bagpipes” are just two of more than 400 features of the Musical Instrument Museum.

One State, Two Destinations deed a “complex”) was accidentally found in 1974 by two amateur spelunkers, who literally “fell into it” through a small hole in a sprawling area of the desert. Remarkably, they kept their discovery a secret for four years, when they finally confided in the property owners. Because of concern about possible damage to unprotected caves, this small group continued to keep the secret for another six years. After considering options to develop this unique property, they disclosed their find to the Arizona State Parks Office in 1984. Further negotiations are rather fascinating, but too long for our brief article and are revealed in detail on the Kartchner Caverns website, apd-kartchnercaverns.com.

Ranked as one of the top 10 caves in the world, the state has done a remarkable job of turning this huge and beautiful underground complex into an easyto-view memory. Your visit starts

with a tram ride to an entry at the top; downward sloping ramps make the walk through the caverns easy for all. The walks are wheelchair-accessible and are available for those who think they might need one. Guides are superbly trained, friendly and accommodating. Visitors will learn a great deal about the remarkable evolving environment of caves.

Surprisingly, visitors will find out about the beneficial culture of bats and how they are quite harmless.

Reservations are highly recommended for a variety of tours.

Kartchner Caverns is a true “destination.”

From a beauty created by nature, we go to a beauty created by man: The Musical Instrument Museum, in Phoenix, whose tagline is: “The most extraordinary museum you’ll ever hear.”

In the interest of full disclosure, we resist the use of prerecorded programs and earphones

in most other museums that require you to follow a controlled path and sequence. There is nothing like that in MIM. The earphones and small control box allows the visitor to wander anywhere in the multiple rooms that have about 400 individual panoramas featuring the music of specific countries or types of instruments. As you approach any display, the music starts automatically. MIM is the successful creation of visionaries led by a former chairman of Target stores and has only been open for about a year.

In addition to the areas devoted to countries, other galleries feature specialized instruments or performers. The Mechanical Instrument Gallery features a most fascinating collection of self-playing instruments and bands. Listen to the classics of musical legends, such as The Beatles, in another hall.

The array of instruments,

music, songs and cultures of so many countries and areas is a mind-opening experience. Most important, it’s just plain fun.

Friends who visited the museum had told us that they were there for an entire day and planned to return again. We were skeptical before we visited but now understand how that it is possible.

Arizona and the Southwest have much to offer, but these two relatively unknown destinations are worth a detour and should be at the top of your list.

Correction and apology: In a recent article, we extolled the fascination of a trip to the Middle East, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai and some adjacent countries. We emphasized that all were safe.

Our comment about Bahrain was, “It’s interesting, but only worth visiting as part of an overall tour of the area.” Well, recent news shows that our inclusion of Bahrain was a major blunder, which we believe is our first in 10 years of writing. Cruise lines have omitted a stop in Bahrain but maintain all others. We are still quite confident of our recommendations of other countries in the region, but Bahrain is and will be off limits.

Stuart

and

Lois

Scheyer

bracket the 80-year mark and are residents of Longboat Key. They each log more than 100,000 air miles a year.

They will be pleased to answer any travel questions and can be reached by email at EnergeticTravel@aol.com.

Travel Easy – Travel Light – Travel Now

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

56958

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

SHORT SALE! COVERED BRIDGE ESTATES.

4 BR/2.5BA, great family home in great area with community pool, fitness center & park. Close to I75 & outlet mall. Bank wants offer!

Marta Altizer #A3920783

$145,000

LONGBOAT KEY NEWLY FURNISHED 1BR/1BA condo with screened porch. Enjoy the beach, bay, docks, tennis, pool and Jacuzzi. All ready to move in. Walking distance to restaurants and shops. John Hines #A3931045

$249,000

PENTHOUSE BAY VIEW LBK 2BR/2BA

designer furnished, boat docks, beach cabana, pets welcome.

A must see. Great complex, shows like a model. Best value on LBK. Hurry! Marc Turner $399,000 #A3926740

FANTASTIC GULF VIEW

walk out to the beach. New carpet & granite. 2BR/2BA unit in one of the most desired complexes on LBK, Cedars West. Curt Bell $619,000 #M5815431

CAPTIVATING AND VERY SPACIOUS

top floor condo overlooking the Gulf, pool & gorgeous tropical grounds. Completely updated & beautifully decorated.

Pets OK. Teresia Bradford $629,000 #M5815650

BEAUTIFUL 2-STORY, 4BR/4BA HOME

located in luxurious gated community. Anna Maria beaches just across the bridge. Oversized lot with heated pool. Extras galore.

Must see to appreciate!

Jerry Cunningham #A3938209 $695,527

16A

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

real estate | transactions

By Robin Hartill | Community Editor

Recent sellers of $12.5 million home purchase $2.4 million L’Ambiance unit Herbert and Sandra Moss, of Elkins Park, Pa., sold Unit A-401 at 415 L’Ambiance Drive in the 145-unit L’Ambiance, located behind the Islandside gates of the Longboat Key Club and Resort, to Siegfried and Eva Schulte, of Rochester Hills, Mich., for $2.4 million. Built in 1992, the 3,220-square-foot unit has three bedrooms, three bathrooms and two halfbaths. It sold new for $985,000 in January 1993.

The sale was the second-largest sale recorded during the week of April 25 and April 29 on Longboat, Lido, St. Armands and Bird keys at the Sarasota and Manatee county courthouses. The largest transaction was the $12.5 million sale reported in the April 28 issue of the Longboat Observer, in which the Schultes sold their 11,961-square-foot home in Regent Court, also known as “Millionaires Row,” to P&W Charters LLC, a Florida limited-liability company, which has a post office address in Cheshire, England. The sale price was a record amount paid for a single-family home on Longboat Key and the thirdhighest price paid for a home in Sarasota County.

Sales for the final week of April more than doubled from the prior week, with 26 sales recorded, compared to 11 during the previous week. Twenty of the week’s sales took place on Longboat Key, including four in Manatee County, while four occurred on Lido Key and two took place on St. Armands Key. Five sales exceeded $1 million.

Villa di Lancia

Herbert Spaeth, of Villa Hills, Ky., sold Unit 221 at the 38-unit Villa di Lancia, 2185 Gulf of Mexico Drive, to M. Scott

S aint C acchiotti,

PA, Direct: 941.38.SAINT (387-2468) Cell: 941.809.0787 Toll Free: 877.581.3444 SaintCacc@aol.com

erty last sold for $550,000 in April 2003, when it held a 1,600-square-foot home that was built in 1962.

Also in Country Club Shores, Keith Lowe, of Wigans, England, sold the home at 570 Putter Lane in Unit V to Janice Cook, 540 Golf Links Lane, for $605,000.

Built in 1967, the 1,810-square-foot home has three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a swimming pool. It last sold for $525,000 in December 1999.

In a third Country Club Shores sale, Beatrice Rooney, of Nebo, N.C., sold a vacant lot in the 500 block of Ranger Lane in Unit IV to James Eccleston and Christine Olson, husband and wife, for $450,000. The lot last sold for $768,500 in December 2006.

Tangerine Bay Club File photo

Unit A-401 at L’Ambiance, 415 L’Ambiance Drive, has three bedrooms, three bathrooms, two half-baths and 3,220 square feet of living area. It sold for $2.4 million.

Welch, of Elkhart, Ind., for $1.4 million.

Built in 1996, the 2,485-square-foot unit has three bedrooms and three bathrooms.

It last sold for $688,000 in September 1997.

Country Club Shores

Miles Group Longboat LLC, a Florida limited-liability company with a 512 Ketch Lane address, sold the home at 513 Ketch Lane in Country Club Shores Unit I to Maryam Lowenbraun, of Boca Raton, for $1.1 million. Built in 2010, the 2,661-square-foot, waterfront home has four bedrooms, three-and-a-half bathrooms and a swimming pool. The prop-

Robert and Briana Gallo, of Providence, R.I., sold Unit 123 at the 90-unit Tangerine Bay Club, 340 Gulf of Mexico Drive, to Alice Berkowitz, 565 Sanctuary Drive, for $875,000. Built in 1991, the 2,274-squarefoot unit has three bedrooms and three bathrooms. It last sold for $1.25 million in April 2007.

Queens Harbour

Brenda Hill, 4134 Gulf of Mexico Drive, sold the home at 3503 Fair Oaks Court in the 102-home Queens Harbour, located behind the Harbourside gates of the Longboat Key Club and Resort, to Thomas Bijou, of Longboat Key, for $556,000. Built in 2000, the 2,952-square-foot home has three bedrooms, three bathrooms and a swimming pool. It sold for $1.065 million in April 2004.

SEE REAL ESTATE / PAGE 18A

Extraordinary Properties Unrivaled expertise MOuLtOn Exceptional results MIChAeL Michael Saunders & Company

Realtor®

Certified residential Specialist

Licensed Real Estate Broker

It takes a lifetime to become an experienced professional and only minutes to realize you’re working with one!

HOMES JUST REDUCED

BALLenTIne MAnor eSTATeS

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

JUST LISTED

HOMES JUST LISTED

TArA goLF & CounTry CLuB

Beautiful 2 bedroom end unit overlooking the fairway of Tara Golf & Country Club. Light & bright split floor plan sold Turnkey Furnished. Amenities include Championship golfing, club house, exercise facility, tennis, pool, sauna and fabulous dining. $79,900

VIZCAYA w/PrIVAte POOL - Tropical paradise spacious gulf condominium w/private pool & covered 1,200SF terrace. A344892 $2,725,000

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

CONDOS

SAnCTuAry on LongBoAT Key

Deer CreeK

Remarkable Gulf front residence located behind the gates Gorgeous 4BR home offering 3,159SF, downstairs of the Longboat Key Club overlooking the glorious white master bedroom, formal dining room, cathedral/ sand beaches. Open floor plan with 2,375 SF, large beach vaulted ceilings, remodeled kitchen/lanai/pool, and front terrace and private garage parking. $1,199,950 exterior hurricane shutters. Convenient location to LOTS shopping, A+ rated schools and dining. $525,000

JUST LISTED

SArAbAnDe – Spacious 2BR & office on a high floor w/sought after views of it all. A3939627 $1,300,000

COuntrY CLub ShOreS – New construction 4BR canal front home. A3929970 $995,000

LOnGbOAt VILLAGe - Key West style home overlooking intracoastal waterway. A3934895 $775,000

JUST REDUCED

DeSIrABLe LoCATIon on LBK

Impeccably kept and sold Turnkey furnished. Split floor plan, eat-in kitchen w/breakfast bar, custom built-ins, dry bar w/wine refrigeration, and screened-in lanai w/ pool. $399,000

Magnificent subdivided parcel on LBK with 4 buildable lots, approximately 1.95+/- acres. $2,999,000 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

Follow me on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn!

56922

Exclusive affiliate of Christie’s Great Estates & Leading Real Estate Companies of the World

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

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

Access Virtual Tours & MLS at SaintCacchiotti.com

Michael Saunders & Company, Licensed Real Estate Broker 440 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Longboat Key, FL 34228 • 941-383-7591

VILLA DI LAnCIA - Designer furnished 3BR condo w/staircase from your terrace to the pool & beach. A3921064 $1,575,000

56413

unIVerSITy PArK

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

17A

Coldwell Banker

®

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

Longboat Key, Villa Di Lancia. $1,599,000 3/3/1 SHF#A3942128 Bruce Myer 941-924-9000

OUR GLOBAL REACH IS NO STRETCH

Anna Maria

Sarasota, Bird Key. $4,950,000 4/5.5/2 SHF#A3942242 Barbara Ackerman 941-924-9000

Longboat Key, Country Club Shores. $3,500,000 4/4.5/3 SHF#A3932874 Judy Kepecz-Hays 941-924-9000

Longboat Key, Country Club Shores. $599,000 3/2/2 SHF#A3937601 Roger Pettingell 941-924-9000

Longboat Key, Islander Club Of Longboat. $475,000 2/2/2 SHF#A3939829 Kathy Hoonhout 941-388-3966

Sought After the World-Over for Marketing Luxury Properties on 5 Continents in 50 Countries

Longboat Key Towers $849,000 Kathleen Sachs, 941-924-9000 Reward yourself with elegance in this distinctive 2BR/2BA waterfront condo.

SHF#A3940096

Key Royale $687,498 Gabe/Charles Buky, 941-924-9000 3BR home w/updated kitchen, open plan w/living room & large family room. SHF#A3934261 Sanctuary III $799,900 Barbara Ackerman, 941-924-9000 3BR/2.5BA condo w/renovated kitchen, floor to ceiling windows & balcony. SHF#A3926119 Bay Palms $520,000 Gabe/Charles Buky, 941-924-9000 Boaters paradise Bay Isles $749,000 Lynne Koy, 941-924-9000 Bay Isles 3BR/2+BA furnished 3BR, volume ceiling, pool & boat lift w/o bridges Bay/Gulf SHF#A3937553 pool home on peaceful lagoon. SHF#A3942892

Mainland Sarasota La Bellasara $5,950,000 Barbara Ackerman, 941-924-9000 Premier penthouse w/bay, marina & city skyline views. 3,370 SF, 3BR/4.5BA. SHF#A3938705 Coral Cove $1,880,000 Louis Wery, 941-924-9000 Enjoy the charm of this 4BR/4BA with endless southern views of the bay. SHF#A3938814

Bird/Lido Key

Phoenix $1,695,000 Roger Pettingell, 941-924-9000 3BR/3BA downtown Sunset Beach $725,000 Gabe/Charles Buky, 941-924-9000 This is it, look condo with bay views, marble flooring, & custom lighting. SHF#A3926577 The Beach Residences $2,899,000 Judy Kepecz-Hays, 941-924-9000 no further! Like new 2BR w/forever sunsets Owner motivated SHF#A3938774 Sunsets & turquoise wtrs. 3BR+den; Imagine & Enjoy Ritz Carlton lifestyle. Shore Condo $699,000 Bruce Myer, 941-924-9000 3BR/3BA 1st floor home Gator Creek $1,600,000 Cathy Giliberti, 941-924-9000 Capture marvelous comforts in this exceptional 4BR/5BA residence. Barn. SHF#A3939465 SHF#A3902833 with garden & gulf views from its expansive terrace. SHF#A3942127 The Beach Residences $2,495,000 Judy Kepecz-Hays, 941-924-9000 The Shore $629,000 Lynne Koy, 941-924-9000 Bring your dreams to this Mcintyre Wilson & Potters $1,000,000 Linda Ann Remley, P.A., 941-3883966 Immerse yourself in luxury in this irresistible 6/6 home. Spacious layout.

3BR/3BA views the gulf and white sandy beaches in luxury from your terrace. beautiful 2BR/2BA condo. Elevators, skylights. SHF#A3937892 SHF#A3936140 SHF#A3906165 Sea Gate Club $625,000 Barbara Miller, 941-388-3966 Exceptional 2BR/2BA Bird Key $1,750,000 Laura Pearson, 941-388-3966 Bird Key 2 Story, waterfront condo. Community swimming pool and tennis. SHF#A3928267 University Park $999,990 Joe Cinque, 941-924-9000 Tuscan style 4BR/3.5BA; 5BR/5+BA canal front home. 3 car gar, generous floor plan. SHF#A3934755 4030sf; “Gem” w/lake & golf course view; gated comm SHF#A3942755 Longboat Key $599,000 Teresa Simmons, 941-924-9000 This unique 1/2 Lido Beach Club $699,900 Bruce Myer, 941-924-9000 Furnished 2BR/2BA acre parcel offers gulf & bay views w/deeded beach access. SHF#A3934342 San Marco $394,900 Steve Ivan, 941-388-3966 Discover the way to this condo w/3 balconies & views of the Gulf, Lido & downtown. SHF#A3933011 3BR/2+BA condo. Wheelchair access, central H/A. SHF#A3931876 Longboat Key Yacht Club $599,000 Judy Kepecz-Hays, 941-924-9000 Lido Regency $625,000 Tracy Eisnaugle, 941-388-3966 Beautiful 2BR/2BA Discover the way to this 3BR/2BA condo. Dock. Community swimming pool. One Watergate $349,000 Kathie Srur, 941-388-3966 Low-chore 2BR/2BA waterfront condo. Elevators. Community swimming pool. SHF#A3934083 SHF#A3942796 condo lifestyle. This home gets high marks. Elevators. SHF#A3933201 Sarasota $539,000 Patrick DiPinto, 941-924-9000 Gorgeous lot. Walk to Longboat Key $580,000 Scott Norris, 941-924-9000 Canal front 3BR/2BA w/ Oakleaf $349,000 Selina Auvil, 941-388-3966 Enjoy admirable comforts! Life clubhouse, marina, tennis courts. Minutes from beach. SHF#A3940485 large master, walk in closet, 2 guest rooms & garage. SHF#A3919280 is lovely in this 3BR/2BA stucco residence. SHF#A3937804 Lido Key $324,900 Teresa Simmons, 941-924-9000 Large & rarely available; Fairway Bay $539,000 Barbara Ackerman, 941-924-9000 3BR condo w/ Heritage Oaks $265,900 Lillian Ridgeway, 941-388-3966 Make yourself at turnkey furnished; 1BR w/southern gulf views. SHF#A3940819 wood burning FP & pvt garage. New flooring, SS appl & granite. SHF#A3927776 home in this wheelchair-accessible 3BR/2BA condo. SHF#A3927988

Longboat Key

Grand Bay $499,000 Roger Pettingell, 941-924-9000 Top floor views of Bay, golf course & Bay Isles that go on forever; 2BR/2BA SHF#A3934884

Gulf Front Estate $11,500,000 Barbara Ackerman, 941-924-9000 Seaplace $469,000 Lynne Koy, 941-924-9000 Hurry to see this attractive 7BR/6.5BA w/150’ of beach front on the gulf. Located on more than 2 acres.

2BR/2BA condo in a gated community. SHF#A3941459 SHF#A3933339 Windward Bay $449,000 Carolyn Donnelly, 941-924-9000 Million $ bayfront Queens Harbour $2,295,000 Bruce Myer, 941-924-9000 4BR/3+BA, pool, lifestyle! Bay view from 3BR villa; boat dock and pool. SHF#A3939520 private dock & bay views in this Queens Harbour home. SHF#A3931140 Portobello $429,900 Patrick DiPinto, 941-924-9000 Rarely available end unit Water Club $1,395,000 Roger Pettingell, 941-924-9000 3BR/3.5BA and 2BR+den/2BA PH w/gulf views! Lots of upgrades! SHF#A3917184 3000 sqft of endless gulf and bay views. SHF#A3941769 Fairway Bay $415,000 Bruce Myer, 941-924-9000 Feel right at home in this L’Ambiance 1 $1,295,000 Roger Pettingell, 941-924-9000 Enjoy gulf views welcoming condo in a gated community. 2 baths. SHF#A3936070 from this 3BR/3BA condo with 700 ft of wraparound terraces SHF#A3922196 Longboat Key $379,500 Sandy Endres, 941-924-9000 Don’t miss this bright Harbour Court $1,200,000 Judy Kepecz-Hays, 941-924-9000 Bayfront & lovely furnished, remodeled, large 2BR/2BA condo. SHF#A3942130 home, updtd 3BR & den w/dock; beach access in exclusive Bay Isles.

SHF#A3940816 Pelican Harbour $309,000 Phil Schneider, 941-924-9000 Pelican Harbour: Great bay views from 2/2, 2nd flr condo. Exc rental, furn. SHF#A3938131 Inn on the Beach $1,075,000 Gabe/Charles Buky, 941-924-9000 2BR/2BA Updated condo w/panoramic views from each room. In rental program. Seaplace $300,000 Lynne Koy, 941-924-9000 Enjoy garden views from this SHF#A3893281 2BR/2BA residence in Seaplace on Longboat Key. SHF#A3926751

Manatee Greens At El Conquistador $329,000 Mary Clarke, 941-388-3966 Comfortable 2BR/2BA home w/pool. Mature plants, and Golf Course. SHF#A3940252 Hidden Oaks $290,000 Shirley Razick, 941-388-3966 You will cheer over this hospitable 3BR/2+BA residence. Ceiling fans. SHF#A3938078 Bel Mare $255,000 Team Vitale, 941-388-3966 Welcoming 2BR/2BA waterfront condo in a gated community. Elevators. SHF#A3942024 Garden Walk $47,500 Anita Caravello, 941-924-9000 Bask in the ambiance of this desirable condo. 2 bedrooms. Central H/A. SHF#A3939605

Siesta Key Sarasota $679,000 Babette Paige, 941-388-3966 Well maintained duplex.

Walking distance to beach & Village 3/2 per unit. SHF#A3941972

St. Armand’s Key

Pelican Harbour $949,000 Phil Schneider, 941-924-9000 3BR/2.5BA, SW First Longboat Harbour $299,500 Taube Levitt, 941-388-3966 You will ex- Lido Beach $1,399,000 Patrick DiPinto, 941-924-9000 Location! Estate size gulf to bay views, new kitchen/bath, TKF, garage, pets ok. SHF#A3938311 claim over this very special 2BR/2BA condo not far from Gulf. SHF#A3913064 waterfront double lot. Dock and lift. SHF#A3935851 Country Club Shores $849,000 Carolyn Donnelly, 941-924-9000 3BR home Longboat Key Moorings $149,000 Linda Weber, 941-924-9000 63’ x 21’ boat Kingston Arms $324,000 Peter Brennan, 941-388-3966 Stucco condo star. one lot from bay on deep sailboat water, pool and bay view. SHF#A3938996 slip at the LBK Moorings Marina, w/memberships available. SHF#A3927947 Find joy in the warm ambiance of this delightful unit. SHF#A3938669

Residential ❙ Commercial ❙ Mortgage ❙ Rentals ❙ Corporate Relocation ❙ Closing Services 56556

FLORIDAMOVES.COM ©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.

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

REAL ESTATE / FROM PAGE 16A

Longboat Beachcomber

Thomas and Mary Ann Stribling, of Independence, Mo., sold Unit 12 at Longboat Beachcomber, 2729 Gulf of Mexico Drive, to 770976, an Ontario corporation with a Toronto address, for $549,000. Built in 1973, the 1,380-square-foot unit has two bedrooms and two bathrooms. It sold for $57,500 in February 1974.

Beachplace

Jerome and Susann Friesch, of Milwaukee, sold Unit 203 at 1105 Gulf of Mexico Drive in the 336-unit Beachplace to David and Carol Shea, of Weston, Conn., for $480,000. Built in 1981, the 1,503-squarefoot unit has two bedrooms and two bathrooms. It sold preconstruction for $143,000 in September 1980.

Sunset Beach on Longboat Key

Tamar Lang Hartel, as personal representative of the estate of Judith Lang Barnett, of New York City, sold Unit 3202 at the 65-unit Sunset Beach on Longboat Key, 2105 Gulf of Mexico Drive, to Michael and Dorothy Gray, of Shelter Island Heights, N.Y., for $475,000. Built in 1984, the 1,273-square-foot unit has two bedrooms and two bathrooms. It last sold for $225,000 in February 1991.

Castillian

PS (2010) Properties LLC, a Delaware limited-liability company with a Sarasota address, sold Unit 208 in the North Building of the 60-unit Castillian, 4545 Gulf of Mexico Drive, to Ellen Ambtman, of Woodbridge, Ontario, for $400,000. Built in 1979, the 1,398-square-foot unit has two bedrooms and two bathrooms. It sold for $136,950 in January 1980.

Longboat Shores

SM-Buttonwood LLC, a Florida limitedliability company with a Bradenton address, sold the vacant canal-front lot at 603 Buttonwood Drive in Longboat Shores

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

to James and Kathy Powers, of Orlando for $350,000. It last sold for $790,000 in March 2005.

Whitney Beach condominium

Julius and Nanette Schneiderman, of Tiburon, Calif., sold the bayside Unit 199 at 6800 Gulf of Mexico Drive in the 139-unit Whitney Beach condominium to Warren and Anne Roberts for $255,000. Built in 1970, the 1,449-square-foot unit has three bedrooms and two bathrooms. It last sold for $155,000 in May 1996.

Longboat Harbour

Joan Brigante, of Port Jefferson Station, N.Y., Debra Bristel, of Shoreham, N.Y., and Theresa Manzione, of Glen Head, N.Y., all individually and as co-trustees of the Sabella Family Revocable Trust, sold Unit 102 in Building F at 4360 Chatham Drive in the 300-unit Longboat Harbour to Richard and Patricia Herring, of Mechanicsburg, Pa., for $229,000. Built in 1969, the 928-square-foot unit has two bedrooms and two bathrooms. It last sold for $80,000 in September 1989.

Spanish Main Yacht Club

Albert Finney Jr. and his wife, Patricia, of Lynenburg, Mass., sold Unit 10 at 581 Spanish Drive N. at the 212-unit Spanish Main Yacht Club to Marjorie Storch, of Commerce Township, Mich., for $206,000.

Built in 1969, the 1,063-square-foot unit has two bedrooms and two bathrooms. It sold for $89,000 in April 1997.

Beach Harbor Club

Raymond Hall Jr., of Niantic, Conn., sold Unit C-104 at 3806 Gulf of Mexico Drive in the 133-unit Beach Harbor Club to Susan Porter, of Exeter, N.H., for $155,000. Built in 1970, the 1,026-square-foot unit has two bedrooms and two bathrooms. It sold new for $21,900 in August 1970.

The Colony Beach & Tennis Resort

Three sales occurred at the 237-unit Colony Beach & Tennis Resort, 1620 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

BUILDING PERMITS These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of April 29 through May 5, in order of dollar amounts. (GMD = Gulf of Mexico Drive) Address Permit Applicant Amount 1945 GMD Alteration Seaplace Association $397,489 415 L’Ambiance Drive Alteration Gloria Flanzer, trustee $146,783 1425 GMD Alteration Thomas Wells, trustee $71,000 415 L’Ambiance Drive Alteration Alan Zimmerman $50,883 1155 Bogey Lane Addition Timothy Overby $43,026

Harbour Villa Club 615 Dream Island Road Alteration at the Buccaneer $40,000 537 Hornblower Lane Re-roof Jeffrey McKee $29,980 524 Cutter Lane Re-roof Nancy Goudy $18,500 1975 GMD Alteration Judith Kottmeier $15,100 3970 GMD Re-roof Saundra Smith $9,470 529 Putter Lane Alteration Edward Webber $6,539 5230 GMD Alteration Covert I $6,000 3740 GMD Alteration Twin Shores Association $5,740 2120 Harbourside Drive Alteration Paul Singer $2,271 2675 GMD Alteration Mirabai Holland $2,252 612 Spanish Drive N. Alteration James Cameron $767 6828 GMD Temporary event Steff’s Stuff $0

John and Dana Lamont, of Somonauk, Ill., sold Unit 208-N to 1620 Properties LLC, a Delaware limited-liability company with a Buffalo, N.Y., address for $80,000.

The 1,128-square-foot unit last sold for $111,000 in May 1990.

John Sung, of Clarence, N.Y., sold Unit 240-N to Benjamin Zuffranieri Jr., of Williamsville, N.Y., for $55,100.

The 1,128-square-foot unit last sold for $108,000 in July 1992.

Edward and Elyse Rogers sold Unit 128N to O’Donnell Colony Holdings LLC, a Florida limited-liability company with a post-office address at 2165 Gulf of Mexico Drive, for $48,250. The unit has 705 square feet.

All units were built in 1973.

L’Elegance on Lido Beach

Robert Moses, of Nashville, sold Unit B-909 at L’Elegance on Lido Beach, 1800 Benjamin Franklin Drive for $1,067,500.

John and Carole Nannes, of Bethesda, Md., purchased an undivided 50% interest, while Michael and Nancy Everett, also of Bethesda, purchased the remaining undivided 50% interest. Built in 1996, the 2,230-square-foot unit has three bedrooms and three bathrooms. It sold new for $475,000 in February 1996.

Visit our website to read more transactions and to see a map www.YourObserver.com

It’s Still

PENTHOUSE-RITZ CARLTON! Down-town w/views, 4,704SF, 4Br/4+Ba/2CG w/ exceptional finishes and luxury appoint.; marble, granite, wood floors, handcrafted wood details, built-ins, 2 wet bars, 4 balconies and the list goes on w/5-star amenities! MLS#A3894745 $3,750,000

UPDATED DIRECT GULF FRONT! 2360SF/3Br/3Ba/2CG w/unobstructed water views, extended Lr & MBr, tile, plantation shutters, crown moldings, artisan finishes, Corian, granite, marble & private laundry in secure N Siesta Key building w/pool! MLS#A3933310 $800,000

EXECUTIVE HOME W/GUEST QUARTERS! 3222SF w/lake & golf views, 3-4Br/4.5Ba main house, 1Br/1Ba sep/ guest house w/wet bar, custom ceil, granite, Corian, wood cabinets, built-ins, frplc, aquarium glass, pool/spa & summer kitch. in The Oaks! MLS#A3931686 $600,000

UPDATED & FUR BEACH TOWNHOUSE! Gulf & Bay views; 896 F / 2+Br / 1Ba / 2HaBa / 1CG end res w/Corian, diagonal tile, bamboo flr, plantation shutters, French doors & 2 balconies, in renovated bldg across from Bradenton Beach! MLS#A3929050 $350,000

GULF & BAY VIEWS! Furn & updated 1615SF/2Br/2Ba/1CP end res w/views in EVERY rm, remodeled kitchen, upgraded baths, neutral carpet & tile, raised panel cabinets & pvt open-air balcony in the renovated Aquarius Club on LBK w/amenities! MLS#A3934996 $599,000

DOWNTOWN W/VIEWS! Completely remodeled 1688SF/3Br/2Ba/2CG w/diagonal tile, granite, furniture quality wood cabinets, SS appls, pocket doors, modern MBa w/Roman shower & dual sinks, pvt balcony in Bay Plaza w/full service amenities! MLS#A3939930 $750,000

MODERN DOWNTOWN BAY FRONT! 1688SF/2Br/2Ba/1CG w/marble, granite, Corian, tile & bamboo flrs, furniture quality cabinets, built-ins, architectural elements, fp, updated eat-in kitch. & baths, pvt balcony & laundry, secure building w/ amenities! MLS#A3942652 $400,000

Neighborhood

FURN W/PANORAMIC BAY VIEWS! Downtown 1360SF/2-3Br/2Ba/1CG w/ faux & artisan finishes, crown moldings, wood cabinets, ceramic tile, granite, plantation shutters, walk-in closets, openair balcony & pvt laundry in secure building w/amenities! MLS#A3929596 $450,000

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

“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.”

Legendary Service.

Remarkable Results.

Contact Annette today.

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

Michael Saunders & Company Licensed Real Estate Broker

®

53677

DEVELOPER CLOSEOUT PRICING! Owner Financing Available - Waterfront homes on Little SRQ Bay w/views & upgrades in a gated comm. w/amenities; pool, spa, fitness plus a full service marina w/Harbor MSTR, docks, rackominiums & wet slips available! Starting at $399,000

Mrs.Rogers’

50693

18A

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

LONGBOAT KEY

19A

LONGBOAT KEY

Gorgeous enProvence unit with 3 Bedrooms Plus office. Full Gulf Views, Generous Terraces and Private 2-car Garage.$2,990,000

Dreamy Coastal Living. Three Bedroom Custom Pool Home With Sparkling Perfection and Delicious Water Views. $1,249,000

HARBOR ACRES

Fabulous Neighborhood! Wonderfully Updated Pool Home with Charm & Character.

$790,000

DOWNTOWN SARASOTA

CASEY KEY

GOLDEN GATE POINT

Beautiful LaBellasara with over 3100 SF of Marvelous Finishes & Lovely Bay and City Views! $2,190,000

Three Bedroom Island Getaway With Tranquil Bay Views and Boat Dock. $1,899,000

Spacious Custom Two-Story Laurel Park Home Built in 2006 w/ Detached Guest House.

LONGBOAT KEY

$649,000

LONGBOAT KEY

Very Impressive Conrad Beach Beauty Just Steps to the Beach. $1,195,000

Completely updated Beachplace Unit with Wonderful Direct Gulf Views! $695,000

LONGBOAT KEY

Sparkling Contemporary Waterfront Home in Bay Isles w/ Great Boating!

LONGBOAT KEY

$2,349,000

SIESTA KEY

DOWNTOWN BAYFRONT

Direct Bay Front Estate-Size Property Comprised of Three Buildable Lots. $3,249,000

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 56911

Cheryl Loeffler | MBA, Realtor | 941.302.9674 | Cheryl.loeffler@SothebysRealty.com The Plaza at Five Points, 50 Central Avenue, Sarasota, 34236236 www.CherylLoeffler.com

20A

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

REAL ESTATE REPORTS

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

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

#1 COLDWELL BANKER AGENT

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

+ Michael Saunders &Co. launches mobile website

Ackerman Ackerman Ackerman

BARBARA BBAARRBBAARRAA

By Robin Hartill | Community Editor

REALTOR®

REALTOR ® REALTOR

®

As seen on Sarasota’s

“Hot ProPerties”

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

Segment Every Other Wednesday!

NEW

LIS

www.barbaraackerman.com

Pierre – Spectacular Views

La Bellasara – Golden Gate Point

Sparkling water views from this amazing 5,585SF Penthouse apartment with 4BR/5BA, private his & hers studies, wine cellar & separate tasting area, media room and large terrace overlooking the Bay and downtown. Private $ $ 1,095,000 boat dock & 2 car garage.

5,950,000

Gulf, Golf Course, Sarasota Bay, & downtown city lights views from this 2BR + den/3rd BR apartment on the 8th floor with 3 full bathrooms and 2,410 sq. ft. Behind the gates of the Longboat Key Club.

NEW

Bird Key – Bay & City Views Gorgeous two-story home on 213’ of waterfront with wide open City, Bay and canal views. 4BR/5 full & 2 half baths, Infinity edge pool & boat dock $ with 20,000 lb lift.

4,950,000

LIS

TIN

G

Three bedrooms, two bathrooms and enclosed patios for extra large square footage under air. Walk to the gorgeous beach or stroll down the dock and enjoy the Bay waters.

Private, tropical setting with covered parking, tennis, pool $ 649,900 w/clubhouse, kayak launch & more.

G

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

918,000 JUS

Bayport Beach & Tennis Club – North LBK

TIN

T RE

DUC

ED

Sanctuary IV – Gulf, Bay, & City Views

3 bedroom, 3 full bath apartment on the 7th floor offers amazing views, daily sunrises and sunsets from the 2 large terraces, spacious interiors and wonderful $ views at an incredible value.

1,125,000

INDIAN BEACH – DIrECt G FroNt NBAy NDISq. E5,215 GAtED 4Br/4.5PBA Ft. $1,999,500 NortH LoNGBoAt KEy – Waterfront INFt.G $1,795,000 4Br + Study 4,700 ENDSq.

P

MAINLAND – Bay Front INFt.G tidewood 5BrP4,600 ENDSq.

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

+ Brandon Surline joins St. Armands MS&Co. office

$1,495,000

MArINA toWEr – Downtown Bay Front G DIN 10th Floor 4Br/4.5BA Sq. Ft. $2,250,000 PEN5,800 rED roCK tErrACE - oyster Bay Vacant Lot Lot w/ House Plans $439,000 GrAND BAy I - Longboat Key Bay Front 9th Floor 3Br/3BA 2,550 Sq. Ft.$1,275,000

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

695,000

FAIrWAy BAy - Longboat Key townhouse 2Br/3BA 1,626 Sq. Ft. $539,000 GrAND BAy II - Bay & City Views 4th Floor 3Br/3BA 2,781 Sq. Ft. $1,395,000

BEACHPLACE III – Direct Gulf Front #302 - 3rd Floor 2Br/2BA $695,000 Longboat Key – Boater’s Fantasy Deep Water Frontage 3,435 Sq. Ft. $995,000

Brandon Surline has joined the St. Armands office of Michael Saunders & Co. Surline was born and raised in Sarasota and currently lives on Siesta Key. He majored in business management at the University of South Florida and brings specialized training in telecommunications, networking, telephony and mobile computing.

business observer

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 shut$ ters, marble floors, full wine bar.

1,800,000

Michael Saunders & Co. announced the launch of its new mobile website, which will allow buyers to search properties on webenabled phones.

Customers can visit michaelsaunders.com from their smart phone to preview any property in Southwest Florida listed on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS).

Additionally, potential buyers can zero-in on Saunders properties close to their location, find open houses and save properties for future reference. The website will automatically convert to the mobile version on a handheld device and is free of advertising.

“It’s no secret that mobile Internet usage is growing,” Michael Saunders, company founder and CEO, said in a prepared statement. “But what you may not be aware of is the breathtaking speed at which this is occurring. Within 18 months, more people will access the Internet through hand-held mobile devices than more traditional desktop or laptop computers. That’s a massive shift in how buyers search for properties and why we are proud to offer this new technology tool as yet another service to our buyers and sellers.”

The website was created in collaboration with 1000 Watt Consulting, a Californiabased interactive marketing communications-and-design company, and Aumnia, a mobile web company also based in California.

Water Club I - Gulf & Bay Views

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

1,699,000

By Robin Hartill | Community Editor

+ Whitney Deem joins Longboat Key Club and Resort Whitney Deem recently joined the Longboat Key Club and Resort as a catering/ wedding specialist. She majored in hospitality at Clemson University and has worked in the industry for more than 10 years.

Sea Gate Club - Direct Gulf Front Floor-to-ceiling glass frames the Beach and Sunsets from every room in this 1,470 SF 2BR/2BA with higher ceilings, wood floors and 2 terraces. Great amentias and on-site management. Walk to shopping. $579,000

Sanctuary III - Behind the Gates Desirable 5th floor Southeast corner 3BR/2.5 BA with wide open Bay, City, and LBK Club Golf Course views. 3rd bedroom doubles as a den with quality built-in’s and renovated kitchen has granite, $ wood and newer appliances.

799,900

Lido Shores - Direct Gulf Front Palazzo

Savoy - Downtown Bay View

Bird Key - Wide Open Bay Front

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

2,395,000

Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate, LLC 941-387-1820 Direct

●

●

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.

LEASING & MANAGING HOMES & CONDOS Annual, Seasonal, Vacation 941-953-6000 941-359-3435 www.JennetteProperties.com

37328 54245

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

55347

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

1,985,000

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

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

21A

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

927 Casey Cove Drive Experience this truly extraordinary bayfront boater’s paradise on exclusive Casey Key. Newly constructed within a private enclave and boasting extraordinary Bay and water views, this estate features 100 feet of frontage and private deep water dockage. Extensive porches and covered balconies welcome you from both the front and rear of the property and emphasize the relaxed resort feel of this home. $3,650,000 Schemmel Property Group, Joel Schemmel 941.587.4894

$1,749,000 941.587.4894

3010 Grand Bay Boulevard, 436 Joan Koplin

8 Washington Drive S Cindy Migone

$1,299,000 941.812.7438

1736 Sandalwood Drive Carol Clark & Paul Clark

990 Boulevard of the Arts, 1203 Barbara Mei

941.364.4000

$1,425,000 941.315.3221

$1,099,000 941.350.4500

$2,495,000 941.893.7417

877.317.7003

5415 Azure Way Judie Berger

$1,299,000 941.928.3424

1188 N Tamiami Trail, 601 Craig Cerreta

$895,000 941.993.2502

415 L Ambiance Drive, A201 Cheryl Loeffler

5584 Shadow Lawn Drive Judie Berger

$749,900 941.928.3424

5188 Siesta Woods Tom Kelley

$649,000 941.320.5530

561 De Narvaez Drive Jo Rutstein

$565,000 941.587.9156

6140 Midnight Pass Road, 110 Perry Corneau

$550,000 941.650.4626

7627 Weeping Willow Circle Carol Clark & Paul Clark

$549,000 941.350.4500

1346 Tuscany Boulevard Elizabeth & Chirs Shiparski

$539,900 941.375.1148

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.

$2,700,000 941.302.9674

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

51177

1330 Main Street, 3 Joel Schemmel

22A

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

games | deal us in

SCOREBOARD April 17 Longboat Key Club Monthly Mixer

Fourth place: Betsy Gentile, Steffi Gold, Sue Orlowski and Tina Skestos, 60 Fifth place (tie): Bella Adams, Jane Doty, Pat Lonsdale and Rochelle McKinney, 61 Fifth place (tie): Angela Freeman, Mary Fitzpatrick, Pat Heffron and Mary Smith, 61 Fifth place (tie): Sandy Finnegan, Elizabeth Sarzynski, Carol Scarbrough and Jean Tarsy, 61 Fifth place (tie): Roz Goldbeg, Betsy Granite, Laverne Kuttner and Juddy Solomon, 61

First place: Woody and Sue Wolverton with Bob and Margaret Lachmann, 38 Second place: Tom and Sandy Finnegan with Bill and Carol Scarbrough, 38.8 Third place: Bill and Anne Flinter with Ernie and Carol Westwood, 39.4 Closest to the pin: Ernie Westwood (men) and Jan Van Iten (ladies)

APRIL 26 LONGBOAT KEY CLUB WOMEN’S 18-HOLE GOLF ASSOCIATION

Closest to the pin Blue 3: Linda Webter Blue 7: Nancy Chanos Red 3: Rochelle McKinney Red 6: Margaret Lachmann

Closing luncheon, 1 Best Ball First place: Stephanie Anzel, Marcy Klein, Merrill Howard and Suzanne Reiman, 55 Second place: Barbara Brizdle, Arleen Klein, Joyce Welch and Proxy, 58 Third place: Elenor Maxheim, Linda Schroeder, Jayne Weiss and Proxy, 59

BRIDGE HAND

By Donna Swan | Contributing Writer

Chip-ins Bella Adams, Angela Freeman, Arleen Klein, Laverne Kuttner, Penny Wolf, Carol Westwood and Lana McDonald

Hole-in-one

On April 18, Stu Rothbaum aced Hole 7 on the Blue Egret course at Longboat Key Club Harbourside. This was Rothbaum’s first ace. The hole measured 145 yards, and he did it with a 6-iron. His playing partners were Mort Skirboll, Michael Cohen and Larry Axelrod.

On April 26, Linda Weber hit a hole-in-one on Hole 3 on the blue course during the Longboat Key Club Women’s 18-Hole Golf Association’s closing luncheon.

How to become a winning player How can you become a winning duplicate player? Always keep in mind that no matter how easy a contract trick seems, to pause and plan your campaign before you play to the first trick.

North had a bit too much for a raise to two spades but not enough for the jump-shift. So, he compromised with a waiting bid of two diamonds, then corrected to spades at his next turn.

South had more than enough to go to game.

West led the king of clubs, and East encouraged with the six. Declarer thought the hand looked easy, so he ruffed the club continuation.

Only when East showed out on the second round of trump did the declarer’s predicament begin to dawn on him.

If the declarer drew all the trump before knocking out the ace of diamonds, the defenders would be able to cash winning clubs when they gained the lead. If the declarer abandoned trump to force out the ace of diamonds, West would be able to get a diamond ruff, and because declarer would still have to lose a heart, they would be down one.

Declarer lost his control with hasty play to the second trick. He should have planned his play, and he might have realized that the main danger to his contract was a 4-1 trump break. There was a simple way to guard against that.

Instead of ruffing the second club, the declarer should have discarded a heart, a trick that he would have to lose anyway. Now, the defenders are powerless. If they continued with clubs, declarer would ruff in the dummy, draw trump and then knock out the ace of diamonds. No shift would be better. Declarer would win and go about the business of drawing trump and force out the ace of diamonds without any risks.

Dealer: South

Vulnerable: Both

North

West

♠ AJ6 ♥K982 ♦ Q 10 7 2 ♣ 54

♠ 8754 ♥ J6 ♦ 84 ♣ K Q 10 9 7

♠ ♥ ♦ ♣ Bidding: South 1 ♠ 3 ♦ 4 ♠

South

♠2 ♥ Q 10 5 4 ♦ A63 ♣AJ632

K Q 10 9 3 A73 KJ95 8

West Pass Pass Pass

Opening Lead: K

East

North 2 ♦ 3 ♠ Pass

East Pass Pass Pass

♣

observerSudoku Edited by The Mepham Group

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

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

the longboat observer subscribe to your neighborhood newspaper

Piano Man

’s census Longboat show numbers lation 9.4% popu 3A. e drop. Pag

PAG INSIDE Eric Cross

Style guru isn’t dead at proves printfashion show. upcoming

years, After 19 an l will give Ted Reh ormance. encore perf

, MARC ThURSDAY

h 24, 2011

ir or’s cha kes may Brown ta rhood.

r neighbo

ges ion chan commiss

rs. You r neighbo

You. You

OUR TOWN

By Kurt

PEOPLE,PLACES PICS &

Schultheis

| City Editor

e. first tim or for the or. may omes may Brown bec elected as vice sioner Jim id Brenner is Commis sioner Dav Commis

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

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

Comm g Monda town’s gratitu g signs isn’t ated Brow ry meetin expresses the Commisl it sells, he + Friedber s statuto er nomin Younger, that nove Comthat whenever a plaque Commission’ Brown, Brenner, n and his wife ed, though, on her first Key resi- a Key TownGeorge Spoll with David Larso Longboat Longboat sioner disappoint mayor.

Lynn to be Former ia Friedberg heldand ct 1 Com- At the ts outgoing Mayor missioner -in Distri irked Siek- wasn’t votedhave been nice . decline dent Patric an voted presen book signing ay, er terms mayoral vote Longboat “It would newly swornJack Dunc tunity to The lecture Saturd told the ated Brenn ng he given the oppor at missionern. n nomin mayor, and mann, who the meeti issioner March 19, 1, in Larso vice after Brow poComm ed.” for ver and ated town’s 8A point to the Bookstore for Siekmannel, who nomin for as the er was voted — on his Obser“clearly disap Land’s End R / PAGE voted whose Sarasota, vote move Brenn SEE MAYO was was Hal Lenob as mayor, novel, by a 7-0 Siekmann, sale and will with one else her first e.” for h sition ay — after no west Siekmann house is c North “21 Aldgatis brief speec birthd Siekmann. r and to the Pacifi made a ation and The novel n, nominated. new mayo Lenobel one-year his nomin to honor set in Londo The town’s during Friedberg r will serve during on, to commission vice mayo Germany wars. urged the with the positi France andbetween world Siekmann the period film based on the h e no avail.

A featur development throug in novel is Pictures Ltd., in go to ss Progre For information, com.

England. ate.blogspot. http://21aldg 2A

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 ......................

Opinion ........... .....................11C ...........

Weather

means h project 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, n beach bond rtising erro in daily For the millio An adve judge must now referendum in the the town the $16 beach bond publications election, that be issued until election or a county er

Dora Walters

to newspaper prior to the m. State can’t holds anoth | City Editor by a counbe used week either Schultheis proble validated that will eroded north has fourth created the a bond refer- gets the vote the Large pipes on oat Key which the error funnel sand onto were placed 18. ates that tised in the ty judge. of Longb funds island discovered adver , March the The town $16 million in for a law mand end of the Island Friday must be Granger prior to to ved no access voters appro due to a endumand fifth weeksndum should Beer Can third PAGE 8A g the that Key t last week, tising election. The refere TION / hed durin21. Inbeach projec s Office adver SEE ELEC Feb. been publis Town Clerk’ Feb. 7 and told have hed durGranger ay weeks of was only publis error. it Mond Clerk Trish

By Kurt

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

ver stead, oat Obser A R T S | E NtheTown tised the T ELongb Roffice only adver that her T A I N M E N T | SOCIE

NEWS MUSE

by Heidi Kurpiela

TY | FOOD | FASHION | DéCOR

The Observer

WWW.yo

UroBSErv

Er.coM

thUrSDAy MARCH 24, 2011

| A&E Editor

INSIDE

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

BLACK TIE thE SocIAL oBSErvEr

LONGBOAT HARBOUR TOWERS Endless southern beach & direct gulf views from this spacious 2BR, 2BA with new impact windows & sliders, paint & newer A/C. The building has been updated and offers tropical pool & BBQ area, clubhouse, exercise, and more.

Offered at $449,000

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

vote validates error in Town ad

Fax: Phone:

941.383.7193 941.383.5509 or 941.366.3468

Posh paperboy

www.engelvoelkers.com/longboatkey

subscription start date________________________________________ name ______________________________________________________

Modern bridge the easy way in just a few weeks!

address______________________________________________________

EASYBRIDGE IS HERE!!

City _______________________________state (Province)___________

June234 • 9:00-11:30 a.m.

Begins Saturday, Thurs., Sept.

In-Between Bridge Club - Town & Country Plaza

Zip/ Postal Code_______Country_____________Phone ____________

NW corner Fruitville & Beneva, Unit 612 Inside Courtyard Sarasota, FL

exp Date_____________________billing zip code

941-355-6940 Michelle Golden

_________________ 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 ric Cross is Sarasota. a pretty dapper

E

SAND CAY

2011 subsCriPtion rates Andi Munzer and Jan Feidelman

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

First Class $150

standard Mail $75

Canada

europe

$185

$395

$100

$50

$95

$200

$50

$30

$45

$100

Beautifully decorated, ground flr, turnkey furnished, 2BR/2BA located near the pool. This recently renovated vacation condo has onsite rental office for ease in rental mgmt. Wonderful wide beach, heated pool, barbeque area and beautiful sunsets. Enjoy yourself or rent when not in residence.

A3923767 $425,000 57022

dresser for a dumpster diver. trash bins dressed in a flashy blue button-down It’s hard to picture shirt, pinstri 51-year-old with a and shiny pe pants 30 black shoes creating window years experience on this — particular Tuesda his outfit displays for luxury clothing retailer y.

But it’s where s rooting throug h his best materi he says he unearths als.

CROSS CONTI NUED ON PAGE 2B

Tina Rudek • 941-920-0303 • Tina@LBKRealEstate.com

1st FOUR lessons FREE! Play in a game your first day!

Date of request ______________________________________________

54930

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

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

Longboat Key Realty 6000 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, FL 34217

LEARN TO PLAY BRIDGE • Beginner Lessons

Credit card__________________________sec Code ________________ cAMErA rEAD y: the out-of-Door emy’s Banyan Ball Acad/ 11B

CUSTOM HOMES

Talk to Tina Today - Longboat Key’s International Connection

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:

NDUM REFERE BEACh

ADDITIONS

34074 56355

1C NEWS

NS: DIVERSIO POSH BOY PAPER E 1B |

License # CGC043438

57023

ver r e s b O NEWS OFFICIAL COUNT

Insured

Stay connected to your Longboat Key neighbors and neighborhood.

BOAT LONG

REMODEL

383-9215

49133

If you must leave, take us with you.

3174 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Longboat Key, FL 34228

941.383.5502 or 941.724.7228 CathyMeldahl@michaelsaunders.com

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

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

Sunrise/sunset

RAINFALL

Mon., May 2 Tues., May 3 Wed., May 4 Thurs., May 5 Fri., May 6 Sat., May 7 Sun., May 8

North Mid 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 2.23 1.60 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Month to date: 2011

2.07 in Year-to-date:

South 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.28 2.10 0.00 0.00

2010 0.00 in.

2011 2010 15.31 in. 10.62 in.

Sunrise

Sunset

Thurs., May 12

6:44

8:10

Fri., May 13

6:43

8:11

Sat., May 14

6:43

8:12

Sun., May 15

6:42

8:12

Mon., May 16

6:42

8:13

Tues., May 17

6:41

8:13

Wed., May 18

6:41

8:14

23A

WEEKLY WINNEr: Palm pairing

TemperatureS

Temps.

High Low 87.5 70 89.5 71 87 70 79.5 68 85.5 68.5 84.5 63.5 85.5 63

Tues., May 3 Wed., May 4 Thurs., May 5 Fri., May 6 Sat., May 7 Sun., May 8 Mon., May 9

Record Temps.

High Low 94 (1991) 51 (1998) 94 (1995) 62 (1991) 93 (1981) 58 (1992) 94 (1986) 58 (1992) 92 (1996) 58 (2005) 94 (1990) 61 (1986) 94 (2002) 63 (2011)

Average Gulf water temperature: 80.1 Tina Mulligan submitted this sunset photo, taken from the Bridge Street Bistro, on Bradenton Beach.

TIDE CHART

Highs

MOON PHASES

Lows

Thurs., May 12

8:58a

9:00p

2:55a 3:39p

Fri., May 13

9:27a 10:28p

3:40a 4:46p

Sat., May 14

9:56a 11:44p

4:19a 5:43p

Sun., May 15

10:28a

—

4:53a 6:35p

Mon., May 16

12:52a 11:02a

5:23a 7:25p

Tues., May 17

1:57a 11:38a

5:49a 8:14p

Wed., May 18

2:58a 12:17p

6:13a 9:02p

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

May 24 Last

May 17 Full

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

June 9 First

June 1 New

52544

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

THE SHAPE OF THInGS TO COME by Paul Jean

1 6 11 15 19 20 21 22 23 25 26 27 28 29 31 34 35 37 39 40 42 45 47 49 50 56 58 59 60 62 63 66 68

C R Y P T O G R A M S by Myles Mellor 1. O P P K

UZGBQIQMG

WIK

AWUS TQPTUQ

MQSWZI

GZUQIB.

GZUQIB IPB

69

S E AY P J W G E M T M Z G Q , B Y Q I , B Y W B B Y Q F P M K

73

UZGBQI

FQUU.

ZB’G

GZUQIB ZG WI WIWOMWS PJ UZGBQI. 2. J

IJUM

DUM

DHRLJAUPPXO

BPXT

DXP

EXPEDXJAHO.

KHJLP LFPT

IXJPUMGT RPXLDJUGT

FDBP D GAL AI UAMMJUE DRKHDJULDURPO.

75

ACROSS Lift with a pulley Silly Old Italian coin Cartoon possum Ward of Daddy Warbucks Athenian lawman Mary Kay rival Admit frankly Ill-fated, as lovers Tugboat sound Back of the neck “This is Spinal ___”(1984 film) Miscellaneous collections Opposite of horizontal Part of SAT Shaped like a volcano Bad way to run?

Library stamps Take in, as a dress Not so dangerous “___ your instructions ...”

Boxer who “stung like a bee” Frosh’s next class Back from to Reason for an investigation “Turandot” composer Takes too much of a drug (Abbr.)

Fiber-___ cable Tool for punching holes Postal delivery, sometimes Enters (with “in”) Toast spreads Unit of Cambodian currency Group of trusted people Romanov bigwig, once Valentine’s Day shape

76 Ignore a property owner’s signs, perhaps 80 Follow-up film 82 Reversible “before” 83 “Pet” irritation 85 Sodom escapee 86 Blew, as a volcano 88 Not passed down through genes 92 Chapter of history 93 Walk drunkenly 95 Have a bug, e.g.

96 What there’s no accounting for, they say 97 Destiny or fate, to a Buddhist 99 Drinks like a fish 102 Over there, down on the farm 106 Escape through a crevice 107 Way from the old ticker 108 Relative of Armageddon 112 Colorful garments of Africa 114 King of Thebes 116 Praise-filled poem 117 Amber brews 119 Spanish liqueur 120 Make an X with weapons 123 Whiskered animal 124 It may change your perspective 125 Part of a green mantra 126 Come after 127 Sacred 128 Trigger-happy 129 “Friday Night Lights” state 130 Lowest of the high tides

dOwn

1 “___ luego” 2 Ready to serve, as beer

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 24 29 30 32 33 34 36 38 41 42 43 44 46 48 51 52 53 54 55 57 61 64 65 66

Not appropriate Title of nobility Slangy sleuth She had a tryst with Tristan More of a snoop “Before I forget ...”

Thumbs-down votes Bring to a conclusion Like most fingerprints “Tickled” keys Turnips or yams, e.g.

Policy opposer Canal or country White House hub of activity Red state grp.

Part of IOU Blowout Abbr. on a remote Bank offerings Brainstorm Rain delay covering Genesis brother Corn cob member Traditional Indian garment Muddy the waters Ruckuses Fries, to a burger “Hey!” in class Fond du ___, Wisc.

Young dog Destitute Distinctive period Prime minister between Churchill’s terms Baby elephant Decorative pitcher Like new dollar bills Linger aimlessly Diving duck Dangerous buildings Poet’s “frequently”

67 Tennis opener 70 Come by honestly 71 Sweet sandwich cookie 72 Scholarship consideration 73 Latin lands 74 Fair transaction 77 Word of dismay 78 Database command 79 Eyelid woe 80 Hide’s companion 81 Dracula portrayer Christopher 83 Frat letter 84 Wriggly, slippery and serpentine 87 Kept in custody 89 Spaceship builders 90 To-do list entry 91 ___ and feathers 94 Seeking dates 98 Way too small, as a tip 100 Beyond proper 101 UFO crew members 103 West Texas oil town 104 Old West hangmen’s loops 105 Mafia chiefs 109 Backs, anatomically 110 Find the sum of 111 Some referendum votes 113 Hearty partner 114 Manitoba tribesmen 115 Sauce thickener 117 Burnt-log residue 118 Sign of summer 120 Computer monitor type 121 Cyst 122 ___-armed bandit

Last weeks Cryptograms 1. The head frog called for a conference to resolve bickering about pond privileges. He dubbed the meeting, “Make us Better Batrachians.”

2. Picking your own subject and speaking your mind is one thing. But changing the subject without changing your mind is tact.

Items Under $200 For Sale Items Under $200 For Sale ADVERTISE YOUR merchandise with

the total value of YOUR $200 ormerchandise less in this section for ADVERTISE with Items Under $200 For Sale the FREE! Limit ad per month, 15section words for or total value of 1$200 or less in this ADVERTISE YOUR merchandise with less.

Price must be per included.

No15 commercial FREE! Limit 1 ad month, wordsthe or total value ofAd $200 or in No thiscommercial section for advertising. runs 2less consecutive weeks. less.

Price must be included.

FREE!adLimit 1 ad per2 month, 15 words or Email to: Ad classified@yourobserver.com advertising. runs consecutive weeks. less. Price must be included. No commercial online at: to: www.yourobserver.com/classifieds Email ad classified@yourobserver.com or advertising.

Ad runs 2 consecutive weeks. online at: www.yourobserver.com/classifieds CARGO TRIKE- Electric. $150. Needs new Email ad to: classified@yourobserver.com or battery (est:$100)Electric.

941-376-1999 CARGO $150. Needs new online at:TRIKEwww.yourobserver.com/classifieds battery (est:$100) 941-376-1999 TROPITONE PATIO Swivel RockerCARGO TRIKEElectric. $150.

Needs Like new new. white, sling back. RockerSturdy conTROPITONE PATIO Swivel Like batteryOff (est:$100) 941-376-1999 struction. new.

Off $200. white, Call sling383-2846 back. Sturdy conTROPITONE PATIO Swivel Rocker- Like struction. $200.

Call 383-2846 Appliances new. Off white, sling back. Sturdy conAppliances struction. $200.

Call 383-2846 KITCHEN: RANGE, dishwasher, fridge, 4 years old @$150.

Wicker twin headboards, KITCHEN: RANGE, dishwasher, fridge, 4 Appliances chest: old $150.

941-387-3060 afterheadboards, 5/2. years @$150.

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

Autos Wanted years old @$150.

Wicker twin headboards, Wanted chest: $150. Autos 941-387-3060 after 5/2.

AUTOS WANTED! Let me take the hassle out of selling your car.

Cash offered today!

AUTOS WANTED! Let me take the hassle Autos Wanted Call of Mike, 941-713-2277. out selling your car. Cash offered today!

AUTOS WANTED! Let me take the hassle Call Mike, 941-713-2277.

ForCash Rent/Sale out ofBoat sellingSlips your car. offered today!

Boat Slips For Call Mike, 941-713-2277. Rent/Sale 32FT. BOAT slip for rent, Boat House of LBK, Boat 3rd level, Call 718-974-5269 32FT. BOAT slipdry. for rent, Boat House or of Slips For Rent/Sale 718-979-8017.

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

BOAT SLIP. Highdry. and Call dry, indoor, for sale or LBK, 3rd level, 718-974-5269 or lease.

Southend of LBK at the Boathouse.

BOAT SLIP. High and dry, indoor, for sale or 718-979-8017.

Owner financingofavailable.

ForBoathouse. info call lease. Southend LBK at the BOAT SLIP. High and dry, indoor, for salecall or 941-544-5597.

Owner financing available. For info lease.

Southend of LBK at the Boathouse.

941-544-5597.

FOR 24/ft.available. inside Boat Rackcall at OwnerRENT: financing For info Boat House Longboat FOR RENT: on 24/ft. inside Key. Boat $295/mo.

Rack at 941-544-5597.

(708)267-6704.

Boat House on Longboat Key. $295/mo.

FOR RENT: 24/ft. inside Boat Rack at (708)267-6704.

Boats Key. $295/mo.

Boat House on Longboat (708)267-6704. Boats Boats Are Selling Very Well. This season has been with over 55 This boatsseason sold.

Boats Boats Are brisk Selling Very Well.

16’ Center Consoles to 32’ Sea Rays+. has been brisk with over 55 boats sold.

Boats Are Selling This season Island resident 15 Very yrs.,toWell. references.

“Let’s 16’ Center Consoles 32’ Sea Rays+. has been brisk with over 55 boats sold.

Talk About Selling your boat”.

941-228-3489 Island resident 15 yrs., references. “Let’s 16’ Center Consoles to 32’ Sea Rays+. or Yachtingflorida@aol.com Talk About Selling your boat”. 941-228-3489 Island resident 15 yrs., references. “Let’s or Yachtingflorida@aol.com Personals Talk About Selling your boat”. 941-228-3489 Personals or Yachtingflorida@aol.com DISABLED VET: Viet Nam needs a donation of $8000 he Viet owesNam to social DISABLED VET: needssecurity. a dona-I Personals make $985/mo.

Explanation and paperwork tion of $8000 he owes to social security. I DISABLED VET: Viet Nam needs a donaavailable.

Call Preston, 941-487-8580. make $985/mo.

Explanation and paperwork tion of $8000 he owes to social security.

I available. Call Preston, 941-487-8580.

Storage make $985/mo. Explanation and paperwork Storage available. Call Preston, 941-487-8580.

O

Furnishings Furnishings NOW BUYING USED FURNITURE...

NOW BUYING Furnishings USED FURNITURE...

NOW BUYING WANTED: La-Z-Boy Leather USEDWANTED: FURNITURE...

Garage/Moving/Estate Sales Garage/Moving/Estate Sales LUCKY SALE! 5/13-14, 10a.m.-4p.m.

5531 Homewood 34232. Sheets/ vocal LUCKY SALE! Dr. 5/13-14, 10a.m.-4p.m.

Garage/Moving/Estate Sales music,Homewood piano, homeDr.furnishings, antiques.

5531 34232. Sheets/ vocal LUCKYpiano, SALE! 10a.m.-4p.m. music, home5/13-14, furnishings, antiques.

General Dr. Merchandise 5531 Homewood 34232. Sheets/ vocal General Merchandise music, piano, home furnishings, antiques.

ENGLISH BICYCLES (2): his and hers, in

Lexington Ethan La-Z-Boy LeatherAllen   Chremecraft WickerAllen Lexington WANTED: Ethan   Drexel Thomasville   Chremecraft Wicker La-Z-Boy Leather   Drexel Thomasville Lexington Ethan Allen Call for Fast Free Bid Chremecraft Wicker Bid DrexelCall for FastFree Thomasville

745-2596 Manatee Furniture 745-2596 Call FastUS41) Free Bid 3015 1st St.for (Hwy Bradenton Manatee Furniture 3015 1st St.745-2596 (Hwy US41) Bradenton Buying & Selling Quality Manatee Furniture Used Furniture Since 1987

Buying & Selling Quality 3015 1st St. (Hwy US41) Bradenton Used Furniture Since 1987 Buying & Selling QualitySales Garage/Moving/Estate Used Furniture Since 1987

Garage/Moving/Estate Sales Garage/Moving/Estate Sales ESTATE SALE 9a.m.-3p.m.

- FRI., MAY 13 ESTATE SALE 11359 PERICO ISLEMAY CIRCLE 9a.m.-3p.m.

- FRI., 13 ESTATE SALECIRCLE ON11359 THE RIGHT (NORTH) SIDE OF PERICO ISLE 9a.m.-3p.m.

- FRI., MAY 13 OF THE CAUSEWAY ON THE RIGHT (NORTH) SIDE 11359 THE PERICO ISLE CIRCLE CAUSEWAY RIGHT (NORTH) SIDEtable OF & PairON of THE leather loveseats, French THE CAUSEWAY 60 year old Moroccan Pairchairs, of leather loveseats, French rug, table & Bang & system, chairs, 60Olafsen year oldstereo Moroccan rug, PairChristfle of leather loveseats, French table & Lalique fish, 19th Bang & platter, Olafsen stereo system, chairs, 60 year old Moroccan rug, Century Belgium sideboard, French Christfle platter, Lalique fish, 19th Bang & Olafsen stereo system, armoire, & Moroccan chest, Spanish Century Belgium sideboard, French Christfle Lalique fish, 19th buffet, 2 Savery paintings, silver, armoire, & platter, Moroccan chest, Spanish Century sideboard, French Chinese rug, 2 queen beds, silver, French buffet, 2Belgium Savery paintings, armoire, &rug, Moroccan chest, prints, 1900’s and oakSpanish desk, Chinese 2 table queen beds, French buffet, 2 Savery paintings, Pierre Lotti books, other books prints, 1900’s table andFrench oaksilver, desk, Chinese rug, 2 queen beds, French & other books, Kudu horns, nice china, Pierre Lotti books, other French books prints, 1900’s tablehorns, and oak desk, stemware &Kudu other accessories, & other books, nice china, Pierre Lottilinens books, French books &other kitchen. stemware & other accessories, & other books, Kudu horns, nice china, linens & kitchen. stemware & Julie other McClure. accessories, Sale by linens & kitchen.

More information & pictures: Sale

by Julie McClure. www.appraisals4u.biz More information & pictures: Sale

by Julie McClure. www.appraisals4u.biz More information & pictures: GARAGE/ www.appraisals4u.biz MOVING SALE, May 14th, 8a.m., 10611 Winding Stream Way, Bradenton FL GARAGE/ MOVING SALE, May 14th, 8a.m., 34212.

Antiques, chaise lounges 4 patio, 10611 Winding Stream Way, Bradenton FL GARAGE/ MOVING SALE, May 14th, generator 15,000 chaise watt, table saw, misc.

34212. Antiques, lounges - 4 8a.m., patio, 10611 Winding Stream Way, Bradenton FL tools, clothing, misc. furniture, dining table, generator 15,000 watt, table saw, misc.

34212.

Antiques, chaise lounges 4 patio, 4 chairs, china cabinet.

Must sell all! tools, clothing, misc. furniture, dining table, generator 15,000 watt,Must table 4 chairs, china cabinet. sellsaw, all! misc. tools, clothing, misc. furniture, dining table, 4 chairs, china cabinet. Must sell all!

excellentGeneral condition and(2): great $180.

ENGLISH BICYCLES his quality. and hers, in Merchandise 941-925-8660. excellent condition and great quality. $180.

ENGLISH BICYCLES (2): his and hers, in 941-925-8660.

THRIFT WAREHOUSE. excellent SHOP: conditionLORD’S and great quality. $180.

Hours: Mon., Weds., & Sat., 9a.m. to 1p.m.

THRIFT SHOP: LORD’S WAREHOUSE. 941-925-8660.

Non-profit. jewelry, Hours: Mon., Clothes, Weds., & Sat., 9a.m.furniture, to 1p.m.

THRIFT SHOP: other items.

6140LORD’S Gulfjewelry, of WAREHOUSE. Mexico Drive.

Non-profit.

Clothes, furniture, Hours:items.

Mon., Weds., & Sat., to 1p.m.

941-383-4738. other 6140 Gulf of 9a.m.

Mexico Drive.

Non-profit. Clothes, jewelry, furniture, 941-383-4738.

Pets other items. 6140 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

Pets 941-383-4738.

FREE CATS: (2) beautiful Burmese to a loving home.

Call(2) 387-7136 consideration.

FREE CATS: beautiful Burmese to a lovPets for ing home. Call 387-7136 for consideration.

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

4 AUCTIONS IN MAY Auctions 4 AUCTIONS IN MAY

May 14, 11a.m.

Full Home of May furniture.

Art Collectibles.

4 AUCTIONS IN& MAY 14, 11a.m.

1971 Mid Ocean Circle, Sarasota.

Full Home of furniture. Art & Collectibles.

14,Circle, 11a.m.Sarasota.

1971 Mid May Ocean Full Home ofMay furniture.

Art & Collectibles.

21, 11a.m.

1971&Mid Ocean Circle, Sarasota.

Home Contents.

Pool home on 3/10 May 21, 11a.m. acre next to Ringling School, Home & Contents. Pool home on 3/10 Mayto21, 11a.m.

5337next Stevens Dr., Sarasota. acre Ringling School, Home5337 & Contents.

Pool home on 3/10 Stevens Dr., Sarasota. acre next to 21, Ringling May 4p.m.School, 5337 Home Stevens Dr., Sarasota.

Mobile in Camelot Lakes.

May 21, 4p.m.

Art & collectibles.

Mobile Home in Camelot Lakes.

May 21, 4p.m.

Art & collectibles.

Mobile Home in Camelot May 28, 11a.m. Lakes.

Art & collectibles.

Full house of furniture, May 28, 11a.m.art, glass collectibles Full house&of furniture, art, glass 28,West, 11a.m.

3479 51st.May Circle Bradenton. & collectibles Full house of furniture, art, glass 3479 51st. Circle West, Bradenton. & collectibles For pictures & More Information, 3479 51st.

Circle West, Bradenton. www.afraac.com For pictures & More Information, www.afraac.com pictures & More & Information, ALL For FLORIDA REALTY AUCTION CO. www.afraac.com ALL FLORIDA REALTY & AUCTION CO. Ab923 941-746-5355 Au1333 ALL FLORIDA REALTY & AUCTION Ab923 941-746-5355 Au1333 CO. 10% Buyer’s Premium for cash or local checks,

941-746-5355 Au1333 13% with VISA,for MC or Discover 10% Ab923 Buyer’s Premium cash or local checks, 13% with VISA, MC or Discover 10% Buyer’s Premium for cash or local checks, 13% with VISA, MC or Discover

Storage

STORAGE FACILITY Boat/ RV/ Trailer.

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

941-809-3660, 941-809-3662 Secure facility, low monthly rentals, Clark Rd STORAGE FACILITY Boat/ RV/ Trailer. area. 941-809-3660, 941-809-3662 The facility, low monthly EASYrentals, READ. FAST RESULTS. Secure Clark Rd Observer Classifieds 955-4888 area. 941-809-3660, 941-809-3662

BIG TYPE.

of Mexico Dr. Station & Broadway.

Various LBK GAS Site.

Corner Gulf Commercial Property ForcommerSale cial uses. $850,000 Longview Realty, of Mexico Dr. & Broadway. Various commerLBK GAS $850,000 Station Site.

CornerRealty, Gulf 941-383-6112. www.longviewrealty.com cial uses.

Longview of Mexico Dr. & Broadway.

Various commer941-383-6112. www.longviewrealty.com Condos/Apts.

For Rent cial uses. $850,000 Longview Realty, Condos/Apts.

For Rent 941-383-6112. www.longviewrealty.com LONGBOAT HARBOR 2011-2012 Season.

2BR/2BA, bayHARBOR view, private second LONGBOAT 2011-2012 Condos/Apts.

Forbeach, RentSeason. floor. Non-smoking. min.

No pets.

2BR/2BA, bay view,3/mo. private beach, second LONGBOAT HARBOR 2011-2012 Season.

410-984-4435, andytanchel@verizon.net floor.

Non-smoking.

3/mo. min. No pets.

2BR/2BA, bay andytanchel@verizon.net view, private beach, second 410-984-4435, STUDIO APARTMENT formin. rentNoatpets.

Lerfald floor. Non-smoking.

3/mo.

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

Landings Water on a canal across $700 from Whitney STUDIO APARTMENT for rent at Lerfald 1 year lease required.

(941) 565-1401, (941) Beach. Water included. $700 month.

Landings on a canal across from Whitney 792-0411.

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

Water included. $700 month.

792-0411.

Condos/Apts.

For Rent 1 year lease required. (941) 565-1401, (941) Condos/Apts.

For Rent 792-0411.

2BR FURNISHED apartment, Twin Shores, LBK. FURNISHED 55+ community.

6/mo.Twin minimum.

2BR apartment, Shores, Condos/Apts.

For Rent $750/mo.

941-388-7284, 941-383LBK. 55++utilities. community.

6/mo. minimum.

2BR FURNISHED Twin941-383Shores, 0044. $750/mo. +utilities. apartment, 941-388-7284, LBK. 55+ community. 6/mo. minimum.

0044.

ANNUAL RENTAL- Direct gulf front 2/2 fur$750/mo. +utilities. 941-388-7284, 941-383nished condo available Linda ANNUAL RENTALDirect 1995/mo. gulf front 2/2 fur0044.

941-962-4884 nished condo available 1995/mo. Linda ANNUAL RENTAL- Direct gulf front 2/2 fur941-962-4884 BEACH-TO-BAY CONDO 1995/mo. at Bayport Linda BTC. nished condo available First floor, end unit.

Newly decorated 2 BEACH-TO-BAY CONDO at Bayport BTC. 941-962-4884 bed/2 bath.

Free local phone, cable and First floor, end unit. Newly decorated 2 BEACH-TO-BAY at Bayport BTC. wireless Internet.

Pictures and details: bed/2 bath.

FreeCONDO local phone, cable and First floor, end unit.

Newly decorated 2 www.bayportbtc.com.

Contact owner at wireless Internet. Pictures and details: bed/2 bath.

Free local phone, cable and 615-376-9448 www.bayportbtc.com. Contact owner at wireless Internet. Pictures and details: 615-376-9448 FIRST LIDO 1900 Ben Franklin.

Large www.bayportbtc.com.

Contact owner at 1BR/2BA condo.

Gulf view from all windows, FIRST LIDO 1900 Ben Franklin. Large 615-376-9448 No obstruction.

6 months or longer.

1BR/2BA condo.Rent Gulf for view from all windows, FIRST LIDO 1900 Ben Franklin.

Large $1500.

513-541-1135.

No obstruction. Rent for 6 months or longer.

1BR/2BA condo.

Gulf view from all windows, $1500. 513-541-1135.

LBK 2BR/2BA Condo, View. or 1stlonger. floor, No obstruction.

Rent forGulf 6 months corner unit beach to bay.

Immaculate & LBK 2BR/2BA Condo, Gulf View. 1st floor, $1500.

513-541-1135.

Bright.

Available May-Dec, 3 month corner unit beach to bay. Immaculate & LBK 2BR/2BA Condo, Gulf View.3(NY) 1stmonth floor, minimum.

Contact 914-610-5692 Bright.

Available May-Dec, corner unit beach to bay.

Immaculate & minimum. Contact 914-610-5692 (NY) Bright. Available May-Dec, 3 month minimum. Contact 914-610-5692 (NY)

THE OBSERVER LP OBSERVER # 56733 THE LP # 56733 THE OBSERVER LP # 56733

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

www.yourobserver.com Your source for local Classifieds

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

Queens' Wreath Jewels at The on St. JEWELRY SALESPart TimeMet Position.

Help Wanted Armands Wreath Circle hiring part salesonhelp.

Queens' Jewels at time The Met St. JEWELRY SALESPart Timesales Position.

Call for interview 941-388-9800 Armands Circle hiring part time help.

Queens' Wreath 941-388-9800 Jewels at The Met on St. Call for interview PART TIME Beach Attendant wanted Armands Circle hiring part time sales help. for Longboat Key resort.

Mustwanted have PART TIME Beach Attendant Call for interview 941-388-9800 sailing experience, enjoy working outdoors for Longboat Key resort. Must have PART TIME Beach wanted and service oriented.

To apply call sailingbeexperience, enjoyAttendant working outdoors for Longboat Key resort.

Must have 383-5511. and be service oriented. To apply call sailing experience, enjoy working outdoors 383-5511.

SALES POSITION. P/T. Must be available and be service oriented. To apply call evenings & weekends. on SALES POSITION. P/T. MustLocated be available 383-5511.

Anna Maria Island.

Retirees Welcome. evenings & weekends. Located on SALES POSITION. Must beWelcome. available 727-244-5906.

Anna Maria Island.P/T.Retirees evenings & weekends.

Located 727-244-5906.

Commercial Property For Saleon Anna Maria Island. Retirees Welcome.

Commercial Property For Sale 727-244-5906.

LBK GAS Station Site. Corner Gulf

This week’s crossword answers

THE OBSERVER LP # 56740 THE OBSERVER LP # 56740 THE OBSERVER LP # 56740

LV1241

THE OBSERVER LP # 56736 THE OBSERVER LP # 56736 THE OBSERVER LP # 56736

Thursday, May 12, 2011 Thursday, May 12, 2011 Help Wanted Help Wanted May 12,Position.

2011 JEWELRYThursday, SALES- Part Time

longboat Observer

THE LONGBOAT OBSERVER THURSDAY, may 12, 2011 Thursday, May 12, 2011

www.yourobserver.com

25A Classifieds 25A YourObserver.com

Condos For Sale

Vacation/Seasonal Rentals

Vacation/Seasonal Rentals

Vacation/Seasonal Rentals

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

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

LBK- Live at Beach. Huge ranch home.

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

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

LBK: 1BR condo, Gulf side with Island view.

Minimum required stay of 7 nights.

941-383-1083.

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

727-501-3675.

LBK: 1BR furnished condo, water views, includes cable, Longboat Harbor. Covered parking, no pets/ smoking, Gulf/ private beach house access. Boat dock available.

Available May 1st - Nov. 1st. $750/mo. +utilities. 248-231-3793.

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.

Homes For Sale BRAND NEW!

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

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

Rye Wilderness. DR Horton.

Half acre homesite, tile roof, 3 car garage.

2670 sf. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 3 car garage. Formal LR & DR, kitchen opens to family room. Walk- in pantry, granite, and stainless. 20” tile in main living areas, Price reduced to $313,500.

Caryn Lukas 941-567-6173 DIRECT GULFFRONT 4BR/4.5BA +den, 3 car garage, pool/ spa, elevator, security.

Immaculate 2005 Mediterranean style architecture with breathtaking Gulf views.

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

Contact Owner/ Broker, 941-920-1699.

Classified Ads Bring Results 941-955-4888 Lots/Acreage For Sale

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 “Take our video tour at” www.casadelmar.net Office Open 7 Days, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

4621 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key 34228

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

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

Out-of-State Property

“INTENTIONALLY BETTER”

Exceptional Vacation Rentals Since 1994 Homes & Condominiums Studios to Six Bedrooms Beachfront, Intercoastal or Garden Excellent Service & Staff

LBK: 2BR condo with breathtaking Gulf view. Minimum required stay of 7 nights.

941-383-1083.

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

Covered parking, no trucks/ pets/ smoking.

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

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.

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

Four month minimum. No smoking.

847-634-1991 Seasonal Rentals on the Gulf!

CEDARS WEST Available: 2 Bedroom Condos on the beach with heated pool!

5655 Gulf of Mexico Drive

LONGBOAT KEY, FL 941-383-4666 or 866-383-4666 www.Cedarswest.com Wagner Realty Since 1939 www.WagnerRealty.com

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.

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

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

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

UPSCALE CONDO wanted for Rent.

2 Bedroom condo with Gulf view, preferably South of Avenue of the Flowers. February and March 2012. Email posnansky@hotmail.co.uk

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

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

DID WE get your attention? You bet we did!

Visit online Make your ad us stand out withatCOLOR. Only in The Observer Classifieds. www.yourobserver.com Call 941-955-4888 to advertise.

Find Treasure!

Now Offering Beach Castle Resort Nightly and Weekly

FLORIDA VACATION CONNECTION

PRIME NORTH CAROLINA MOUNTAIN PROPERTIES At BARGAIN PRICES  Breathtaking views  Mild Summers

laurelridgegolf.com

Contact: Sherell Johnson, Jr.

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

941-356-5610 or 941-358-7401

Vacation/Seasonal Rentals 392 FIREHOUSE LANE, LBK. Newer upscale & stylish Gulfside home. Steps to beach & pool. 2BR +loft. Annual or Seasonal. No pets. Owner/Agent, 941544-0214, www.LuxuryHomes-Condos.com

www.FLvacationconnection.com 941-387-9709 877-705-2460

FAIRWAY BAY, 2BR/2BA, furnished condo overlooking Sarasota Bay. Gated community, access to private beach club, pool & tennis on premises. Rent by the season or monthly, 2 month minimum. 412-370-8787 502-456-4361.

LBK BEACHPLACE Condo. Beachfront, 2BR/2BA. Elegantly furnished, heated pool, tennis court, covered parking, exercise room. Available July, Aug., Sept., Oct. & Dec. 2011. Non-smoking/ pets. By owner. 941-383-1884.

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

Owner 941-504-1927.

Reserved Space LP Reserved Space

Want to find a great deal on something you’ve always dreamed of?

You never know what you’ll find in the classifieds!

Your source for local Classifieds

LV1247

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

26A

26A Classifieds YourObserver.com

longboat Observer

THE LONGBOAT THURSDAY,OBSERVER may 12, 2011 Thursday, May 12, 2011

www.yourobserver.com

Vacation/Seasonal Rentals

Cleaning

Home Improvement/ Remodeling

Personal Services

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.

EDLA’S CLEANING SERVICES: Residential Commercial, New Construction. Meticulous, deep cleaning top to bottom. We Guarantee.

Affordable & Reliable. Excellent References.

Free Estimates. Licensed & Insured. 30% off first cleaning. 371-9869.

JOHN GUBERNAT HANDYMAN SERVICES ALL HOME REPAIRS

YOUR PERSONAL BOOKKEEPER, LLC Gail Sunray, Owner

Computer Services 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

Team Up Today With Classifieds 941-955-4888

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.

OWN A MAC? MacTutor offers 21 years experience. Unlimited free telephone follow up. (941)812-3887 www.FLMacTutor.com QUICK, EASY, Affordable Training. Microsoft Certified Trainer. QuickBooks advisor. LBK Resident. Call 941-383-9458.

CERTIFIED CAREGIVER available. Many years experience in all phases of care.

Excellent area references. Insured and Bonded. Cheaper than an agency. Call 941-405-4410, leave message.

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

I come to your home or office.

941-383-5765 Home 941-962-4867 cell LBK Resident Licensed/Insured

Telephone: 941-749-5646 yourbookkeeper@tampabay.rr.com

All Variations of Ceramic Tile Supplied & Installed.

Free Estimates & Custom Designs.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Grout Cleaning & Sealing Service Available

 Based on 30 Years Research

Call Ashdown Flooring, Inc. LICENSED (941) 726-3077 INSURED

941-321-9267

BONDED & INSURED Over 25 yrs. experience

TILE TILE TILE

Health Services

 Stop Suffering Today!  Amazing New Approach

 Bill Paying & Account Reconciliation  Organizing Personal and Business Files  Budgets & Financial Reports  Federal and State Tax Returns

Excellent service. 30 years experience.

Expert Marble & Travertine Installation Floor & Walls

www.SarasotaClinicalHypnosis.com

Adult Care Services

Personal & Business Bookkeeping Accounting/ Taxes

Carpentry, Painting, Property Caretaking, Roof Leaks/ Coatings, Power washing, Dock Repairs.

Professional Services ***PERSONAL ASSISTANT*** Organizing, bookkeeping, appointments, shopping, etc. Experienced with references.

Call and leave a message 941-321-9615

Tile STEVE ALLEN FLOOR COVERINGS

Painting/Wallpapering

Home Improvement/ Remodeling 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

PROFESSIONAL TILE & MARBLE INSTALLATION

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.

20 YRS. EXPERIENCE

O

CALL FOR FREE ESTIMATE 726-1802 LIC/ INS

Home Improvement/ Remodeling

Say You Saw it in Place Your

Ad Quickly

941-955-4888 or www.Your Observer.com/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 Observer The Sarasota Observer The East County Observer

That’s over 70,000 in circulation and more than 140,000 readers!

Reserved Space LP Reserved Space

Buy Now

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.

To advertise your listing call (941) 955-4888 or email classified@yourobserver.com

The Observer You. Your Neighbors. Your Neighborhood.

e l p

S

M A

absolutely elegant home in silver oak.

Model perfect Biscayne floor plan by Bamboo Builders. One of best lots w/lake & Private Views. Over 3400 sq. ft. under air. 4 BD + den, 3 1/2 BA. Gourmet kitchen w/wood cabinets, granite counters, stainless appl. 3 car gar., large htd pool & spa w/outdoor kitchen. Built in 2001! $899,900. John Doe Real Estate.

John Doe

941-555-5555

THE LONGBOAT longboat ObserverOBSERVER THURSDAY, 2011 Thursday, may May12, 12, 2011

27A Classifieds 27A YourObserver.com

www.yourobserver.com

MOVERS

DOCKSIDE BOAT REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE

56127

SMS Mobile Marine Service *36 )LVKILQGHU ,QVWDOODWLRQ ‡ 2XWERDUGV , 2ªV ‡ ,QERDUGV Call for appointment ‡ 941-232-3523 CERTIFIED & INSURED

REMODELING/HOME IMPROVEMENT

MO V I N G Dave McCarthy

For Every Size. For Every Budget. Energy Savings for Everybody!

“Will move anything from a couch to a household�

Reduce electric bills from 25% to 100%!

Free energy analysis and consultation

LOCAL - LONG DISTANCE FREE ESTIMATES

174 175' 5 74 v E 4+14+6;

175' #6%* '48+%'5 g '5+&'06+#. .'#0+0) '48+%'5

jMHEk MFK g EHFG &6'%* .'#0+0) '48+%'5 0%

Phone (941) 704-4278 Fax (941) 538-3781

) # # s $/4 &, -/6%23 )-

Dave McCarthy

364-5900 56118

CLEANING

Operator/Owner

EcoTechnoUSA.com

CVC56744

SALONS

56772

+%'05'& g 10&'& g 0574'&

999T &6'%* .'#0+0)T%1/

U Spray Foam Insulation U Solar Hot Water and Pool Heaters U Solar PV Electricity U Variable Speed Pool Pumps 56892

BOAT SERVICES

LBK’s New Barber

COMPUTER

Ken Schwartz

Now taking appointments Tues. & Fri. (Publix Shopping Center)

359-1904

Home Visits Available

t $FMM

We sell boxes!

56402

Team Up Today With Classifieds 941-955-4888

Regrout ♌ Recaulk ♌ Repair Clean ♌ Seal ♌ Recolor

We Cure Sick Grout!

/54$//2 &52.)452% %80%243 s 777 0!4)/2%0!)23 .%4

Fully Insured

(941) 388-3580

941-755-1300

www.groutdoctor.com

Affordable Expert

CHRISTIE’S 778-3924

55808

PLUMBING

PLUMBING

UĂŠ, * ,-ĂŠEĂŠ, "

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

For Free in-home estimates and consulting

By Referral or Ad Only

Visit our website at: www.TLHillConstruction.com

HOME SERVICES

INSURANCE

53750

Dennis Gotthelf

-!2).! $2 (/,-%3 "%!#( s /0%. 3!4

REMODELING/HOME IMPROVEMENT

House Care Watch

941.266.0562

DEPENDABLE & ON TIME FREE ESTIMATES

-/ / " ĂŠEĂŠ ,/ 9ĂŠ

"756888

Call: 941-746-5255

+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

Multi-Point Inspections‡Water Plants Car Charge‡ Meet/Arrange Contractors DGotthelf1@Verizon.net - REFERENCES

OR 778-4461

RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL

Honey Do Lists / No Job Too Small ASK ABOUT OUR DISCOUNTS! – 10% Senior Discount

Are You Thinking About Renovations? a Šy~{„‰ Š XwŠ~‰ Š m „z…�‰ Š Z……ˆ‰ fw „Š „} Š h{†w ˆ‰ Š Wzz Š …„‰

West Florida Contractors, Inc.

941-906-8554

CGC1505233

www.wfcgeneralcontractors.com

INSURANCE

$25 Off with this ad

Free Estimates

Team Up Today With Classifieds 941-955-4888

HANDYMAN

(OME -AINTENANCE 0ROGRAMS s Home Renovations 2OOM !DDITIONS s #USTOM #ONSTRUCTION

Ask About EnduroShield Coatings

56976

Specializing in Residential Painting

Š _„Š{ˆ …ˆ fw „Š „} Š f…†y…ˆ„ Y{ ‚ „} h{ƒ…Œw‚ Š mw‚‚†w†{ˆ h{ƒ…Œw‚ Š j{ŽŠ‹ˆ{z \ „ ‰~{‰ Š Zˆ��w‚‚ h{†w ˆC h{†‚wy{ƒ{„Š

WINDOWS Lic./Ins. se Window Washin i r n Su and Pressure Cleaning g

Res./Com.

Environmentally Friendly

h,EAVE 9OUR $IRTY 7INDOWS 4O 5Sv

s h50 4/ 34!.$!2$ 7).$/73 s v 302).' 30%#)!,3

10%

Free Estimates

00

OFF + Additional

For Senior Citizens Prices Include:

Ă“ĂŠ >ĂŒÂ…ĂŠ ÂˆĂ€Ă€ÂœĂ€ĂƒĂŠUĂŠĂ“ĂŠ >Â˜ĂƒĂŠUĂŠ/Ă€>VÂŽĂƒĂŠUĂŠ-VĂ€iiÂ˜Ăƒ

55952

56973 38056

#USHIONS s 3LINGS s 2E POWDERCOATING #USHIONS s 3LINGS s 5MBRELLAS

Corby J. deKozlowski

Floors ♌ Kitchens ♌ Showers 56382

PATIO REPAIRS Furniture Repairs FurnitureSales Sales &&Repairs

State Lic #CGC1507489

Pretty Tile, Ugly Grout?

PAINTING

FURNITURE REPAIR

941-504-0903

Fully Licensed and Insured

TILE

3M WINDOW FILMS

NBI SUN CONTROL 1-800-TINTING

Auto / Residential / Commercial

56983

56128

U.S. DOT No. 1915800

55995

at Panache Salon

INSURANCE

SECUR-ALL INSURANCE AGENCY WE HAVE ARRIVED AT OUR NEW LOCATION

941-383-3388

stOp By anD Meet yOuR lOcal agents, sanDRa & geORge ceshKeR

56129

510 Bay Isles ROaD, suIte 1 • lOngBOat Key, Fl (InsIDe suntRust BanK) CHUBB, AIG, UNIVERSAL, UNITED, TRAVELLERS, SAFECO, PROGRESSIVE, CITIZENS, FLOOD. WE HAVE YOU COVERED!

Sell your service with success.

Advertise in The Observers’ Service Directory Call 877-308-5642 for more information...

28A

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

ealto sota’s #1 R Roger is Sara

r for 2010

.

1 million sold with over $4 nker Coldwell Ba 1 # e th s a w r .

Roge rida for 2010 nt in all of Flo

Age

l’ambiance

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

s sold in exces d n a d te s li s d Roger ha n in luxury an o li il m 5 7 9 of $ omes. waterfront h rs experience a e y 5 2 n a ore th Roger has m ta. te in Saraso ta s e l a re g sellin

HaRbOR SecTiOn

lOnGbOaT HaRbOUR TOWeRS longboatharbourtowers102.com

▲ 415lambiancedr302.com Lovely southern corner Areca floor plan with wraparound views, 3BR/3BA. Professionally designed. Extremely good value in 5-star community. $1,199,000 WaTeR clUb waterclub1107.com Stunning Dover penthouse on south side. Classically furnished, 2 tandem parking. Amazing views. $2,495,000 waterclub204.com Delightful, B plan with 3BR and sitting room. Furnishings included. $1,499,000 waterclub404.com 4th floor, pool and garden views out to the Gulf. $1,499,000 waterclub804.com 9th floor, Brighton, sunset side of building 2 with views that go on forever. $1,395,000 waterclub-208.com 3BR, wraparound floor plan with sunset views. Furnished. $999,000

Direct Gulf, 2BR/2BA only steps to the beach, first floor walk-out. $495,000 PHOeniX phoenix-602.com 3BR/3.5BA, 6th floor, incredible views of downtown, bay and harbor. $1,695,000 SeaPlace seaplacem2-411.com Direct Gulf, 2BR/2BA, 4th floor, turnkey furnished. $499,000

▲ seaplaceg7209.com G-7 bldg with Gulf/sunset views.

Updated, furnished and ready to enjoy! $339,000 seaplaceg3213.com 1BR/2BA townhouse. Furnished. $235,000

Roger sells country

1015bogeylane.com Built in 2003, this 4,405 ft home has beautiful, long water views and deep water boating. Steps to the beach. Gorgeous finishes. $1,699,000

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

▲ 521harborcaydrive.com 3BR plus den, oversized pool, deep water harbor. $1,495,000 SOUTH SieSTa KeY 9250blindpassroad.com 3BR plus den, contemporary home is very private! Elevator, marble flooring and elevated pool. $2,495,000 biRD KeY 258robindrive.com Over 5,000 feet of living space surrounded by luscious gardens. $1,150,000 611mourningdove.com 4BR/5BA, direct bayfront.

Cook’s kitchen, travertine, wine storage. $3,445,000 THe lanDinGS 1469landingscircle.com Located in the heart of Sarasota, this 3BR townhome has bay views. $449,000

PENDING

PieRRe

pierre501.com Wraparound views, 5th floor, south side, value-priced residence. $899,000

▲ grandbay211.com 2,900 feet of direct bay views and oversized terraces make this Longboat Key’s best bayfront value! 3BR/3.5BA. $999,000 grandbay322.com Vistas of view, Biscayne 3BR/3.5BA with wrap around terraces. $829,000 grandbay642.com Charming, bright 2BR/2BA with lovely bay views. $499,000 RiTZ beacH ReSiDenceS beachresidences1007.com 10th floor, awesome views, incredible finishes, unparalleled services. $1,949,000

TOWelS cOURT 1857morrillstreet.com Two-story home. 2BR/2BA upstairs apartment over your own studio. $499,000 PlaYeRS clUb

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

club Shores.

511bowspritlane.com Open plan with 4BR and family room on extra large, waterfront lot. Vaulted ceilings, tiled flooring. $1,095,000

551yardarmlane.com 3BR/2BA mid-canal home in terrific condition. $649,000

512cutterln.com This charming 3BR/2BA split plan has been lovingly updated.

Southern facing, deep water, exceptional value. $599,000

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

roger c. pettingell Luxury Waterfront SpeciaLiSt

941.387.1840

941.586.6668

e-mail: roger@longboatrealestate.com

www.longboatrealestate.com

47874

Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate

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

Diversions YourObserver.com

DANCE ANTICS

THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2011

by Heidi Kurpiela | A&E Editor

Heidi Kurpiela

“I always felt I had one chance with an audience or one chance with a class,” Elizabeth Weil Bergmann says. “If people don’t walk away having had an ‘a-ha’ experience, then they’re not going to come back.”

Mover and shaker Retired Harvard dance Director Elizabeth Weil Bergmann brings her Ivy League moves to Sarasota’s Carreño Dance Festival.

W

hen Elizabeth Weil Bergmann says she dances alone in her living room, you believe her.

Her sun-drenched house in Sarasota’s quiet Oyster Bay neighborhood has an open floor plan with plenty of space to move, say, if one

were to put on Schubert and twirl with reckless abandon.

Bergmann is exactly the kind of retired dance doyenne that you can picture twirling — not in a prima ballerina kind of way, but in a loose-limbed, interpretive dance kind of way.

She’s the picture of fluidity: dan-

gling earrings, rayon pants, big smile and an unfussy crop of short, white hair.

“I thought I’d die on the dance floor,” says Bergmann, who retired this year from her post as dance director at Harvard University. “I still might. It just won’t be in Cambridge.”

BERGMANN CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

INSIDE

Black Tie

EDIBLES

Kem Lindsay

When it’s pizza night ... / 5

THE SOCIAL OBSERVER

YMCA Foundation of Sarasota’s ‘Element Au’ PAGES 8 and 10

CAMERA READY ABWA Runway Event / 10

2 ■ Diversions >>

YourObserver.com

■

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

COVER STORY

BERGMANN from 1 A Juilliard graduate with a resumé that includes a 21-year professorship at the University of Michigan, Bergman joined the faculty of the Carreño Dance Festival in February.

She signed on hoping to impart her love of modern dance to up-and-coming performers.

“I’m on a mission,” she says. “So many kids trot off to these ballet schools, and outside of ‘Swan Lake’ and ‘Nutcracker,’ they don’t know much. I feel strongly that our young dancers need to learn everything there is to learn about dance. There are plenty of opportunities beyond just making a ballet company.”

Bergmann is sitting at a glass table, sipping an unsweetened iced tea, waxing nostalgic about her dance days in New York City — the late 1950s, a time ruled by Martha Graham, José Limón, Antony Tudor and Louis Horst, all of whom she studied under in her youth.

“It really was the golden age,” Bergmann says. “Of course, at the time I didn’t know it.

That’s the thing with golden ages. You don’t know you’re living through them until years later.”

Hired in 2000 to helm Harvard’s fledging extracurricular dance program, Bergmann was practically a legend by the time she left the school, which was, she says, her objective.

Venerated as it is, Harvard is not exactly

BERGMANN ON HER CELEB PUPILS Madonna (University of Michigan, 1977)

“She came to me as a freshman. She was a very slim, typical ballerina type. She was definitely going to make it as a dancer. There was no question about it. When we brought Pearl Lang in to make a work, she took Madonna under her wing, and as a result Madonna went to New York to dance with Martha Graham. As you know, things changed from there.”

Natalie Portman (Harvard, 2000)

“By the time she took my class she had already done ‘Star Wars’ and was a pretty big star. I’m almost embarrassed to admit it, but I didn’t recognize her. She’s very little and nondescript, and at Harvard she went by her birth name –– Natalie Hershlag. I was always apologizing for forgetting her name. Finally, one of the other students came up to me and asked, ‘Don’t you know who she is?’ I was so intimidated after that.” known for its dance program.

When Bergmann arrived on campus, a handful of no-credit dance classes were being taught out of a cramped basement studio buried at the end of a series of tunnels.

In just 11 years, she managed to build a dance center, expand the program to include a dense curriculum of credited courses and build a roster that included more than 800 student dancers.

“I wanted to see if I could put a chink in the staid bricks,” Bergmann says. “I didn’t think there were any dancers at Harvard, and, then, they just came out of the woodwork!”

Rising to let her cat in from outside, she glosses over the weight of her Ivy League accomplishments, leaving the rest of the story

to be filled in by a quick Internet search.

A Harvard arts blog reveals that, in December, members of the Harvard-Radcliffe Modern Dance Company performed pieces of Bergmann’s choreography at a farewell dance concert.

In a post dedicated to the choreographer and teacher, former students expressed their gratitude for Bergmann’s vision and leadership.

“There is one person who is the heart and soul of the dance program,” states 2007 grad Sonia Todorova. “(And that’s) Liz Bergmann.”

A native of Evansville, Ind., Bergmann was 16 years old when her mother wrote a letter to then-New York Times dance critic John Martin inquiring about suitable out-

lets for her dance-crazed daughter.

“I came out of the womb dancing,” Bergmann jokes.

Aside from a handful of small schools that taught beginning tap and tumbling lessons, there weren’t many dance studios in Southern Indiana in the 1950s.

So Martin suggested sending Bergmann to Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival, in Becket, Mass.

“It was nine weeks of non-stop dance,” Bergmann says. “I saw every performance and I went to every class. It changed my life.”

Two years later, she was accepted to The Juilliard School on the recommendation of a ballet teacher from Indiana University, who slipped the then-18-year-old dancer into the school on probation.

Five years later, she became the youngest faculty member at the University of Michigan, where she remained a professor in the department of dance until 1982.

“I learned at a young age that I’m a giver,” Bergmann says of her decision to pursue teaching over performing. “To have an impact on a person’s body right in front of you.

Golly. It doesn’t get any better than that.”

She says she would have hung around New York for years hoping to get into a ballet company had she not been exposed to so many different options as a young dancer.

“I’d still be sitting through rehearsals, knitting wool tights and smoking,” she laughs. “How boring is that?”

Cortez Road 41

4780 14th St. W. U.S. Hwy 41 Bradenton, FL 34207

Let us bring your next car to You.

TROPICAL

14th Street West

TROPICAL

70

53rd Street

2011Cadillac SrX

469/mo

$

rive Sign & D

39 months, 10,000 miles per year, plus tax, tag and dealer fee. See dealer for details.

STK#11245 STK#11441

2010Cadillac eSCalaDe Get the WOW experience you deserve! Just call and make an appointment to have a Sales Professional bring a car to you in the comfort of your own home with the convenience of

Tropical Cadillac’s Concierge Program.

Oil & Filter Change

$

19

95

Starting From

57,995

$

2011Cadillac CtS

Offsite trade evaluations available!

TROPICAL SERVICE INCLUDES: • Up to 8 qts. of oil • genUine MFg oil filter • Check all fluid levels • Free Multi-point inspection

KIA & GM models Only. Some models higher. Excludes Synthetic oil. Plus tax and shop supplies where applicable. Must present coupon at time of write-up. Not valid with any other coupons or advertised specials. Valid only at Tropical Cadillac. Expires 5/31/2011.

4/15/11.

Sign & Drive

*24 Month lease 2,699 due at signing plus tax, tag, title, and dealer fee of $499.95. 10,000 miles per year with approved credit through Ally financial. Also includes owner loyalty. ** Includes owner loyalty. Photos for illustration purposes only. The dealership or it’s agency are not responsible for late, lost of misdirected mail, typographical or production errors.

STK#11352 STK#11172

379/mo

$

Tropicalcadillac.com

•

941.751.6886

57020

39 months, 10,000 miles per year, plus tax, tag and dealer fee. See dealer for details.

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

Diversions

YourObserver.com

■

3

COLUMN

art scene HEARD

HOT TICKETS Black Diamond Burlesque at McCurdy’s: Celebrate Friday

the 13th with Sarasota’s favorite teases: Miss Petite Coquette, Lotta Love, Mademoiselle Rowdy Pants and Madame Morphus. Join the disrobing damsels for a tantalizing performance at McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre at 9:45 p.m. Friday, May 13. For tickets, call 925-3869 or visit www. mccurdyscomedy.com.

by Heidi Kurpiela | A&E Editor

+ Perales places first at RCAD exhibit If Mona Lisa taught us anything about art, it’s that there’s an allure to not smiling, so kudos to Stephanie Peters for channeling the famous muse in this photograph by Daniel Perales.

And the same to Perales for capturing it in such a way that viewers at this month’s juried photography exhibit at the Longboat Key Center for the Arts, a Division of Ringling College of Art and Design, couldn’t tell if the image were a photo or an oil painting.

Perales, who won Best in Show at the Ringling-sponsored exhibition, mimicked the painterly touch of the old masters.

(Chiaroscuro lighting, anyone?)

The photo, which was chosen out of 150 entries, is one of several works by Perales currently on display in Sarasota.

The photographer, who is also a member of the local arts co-op s/ART/q, has portraits hanging at Westfield Sarasota Square Mall and Eckerd College.

Right: Black Diamond Burlesque and friends.

Daniel Perales

Stephanie Peters is a Sarasota hairstylist and artist-about-town.

Up next at the Arts Center: work by artists Fiore Custode and Nathan Skiles. The “RCAD Creatives” kicks off with an opening-night reception from 5 to 7 p.m. May 19, in the Durante Gallery.

For more information, call 3832345.

+ ‘Joint Collective’ comes to State Street Following in the footsteps of s/ART/q, “Joint Collective,” a group of Ringling College students and alumni, has been setting up art exhibitions in

vacant real estate.

The group, which has been working with European Focus Village and The Isaac Group to create temporary art galler-

Scott Braun

+ CEO receives Broadway award

+ Ringling Museum flashes

Good news for the meatpacking industry: Boar’s Head president and Van Wezel Foundation Chairman Mike Martella was recognized this month

by The Broadway League — Mike Martella the national trade association for the Broadway industry and co-presenters of the Tony Awards — for his support of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.

Nominated by Van Wezel Executive Director Mary

The John and Mable Ringling Museum continues to make curvy babes feel good about their bodies with the addition of a new hip-hop-influenced exhibition — “Beyond Bling: Voice of Hip-Hop in Art” (May 21 through Aug. 14).

We all know Peter Paul Rubens loved his women with a little padding. Well, so do the artists featured in “Beyond Bling.”

The street-chic exhibition includes a mix of work by Gajin Fujita, Luis Gispert, Sofia Maldonado, Nadine Robinson, Mickalene Thomas, Hank Willis Thomas, Kehinde Wiley and Vince Fraser.

Developed by Matthew McLendon, the museum’s associate curator of modern and contemporary art, the exhibit will open with a hip-hop lounge party Friday, May 20, in the museum courtyard.

The evening will include music by DJ Imminent, custom cars by Mad Marks, a hip-hop dance routine by Urban Spiral and green screen photo booth opportunities. Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door.

We strongly suggest popping in for a look-see. When’s the last time you heard the word “bling,” “hip-hop” and “Ringling Museum” in the same sentence? Yeah. That’s what we thought.

ies in empty warehouses and storefronts, will open its next show, “1408 Art Space,” in a downtown vacancy at … you guessed it — 1408 State St. The exhibit will include the work of 10 artists in the fields

Bensel, Martella received the league’s Star of Touring Broadway Award, which is given to people in public or government service who show significant support for theater.

Bensel was in New York City this week accepting the award on Martella’s behalf at the annual Broadway League Conference.

This marks the CEO’s second do-gooder award this season. Martella was named Philanthropist of the Year by the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County.

Finally, a cultured meathead!

of painting, sculpture and digital media.

Join the collective for its opening-night reception from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, May 20.

The show will be up through May 25.

Sterling Silver Bonanza!!!

Heriz Persian rugs Genuine, Handmade, distinctive RuGs Hand Cleaning & Repair Services

Trivia: What do you have in your home that you don’t use

anymore … or want to clean … & your kids don’t want it either?

Answer: STErlinG SilvEr Bring it in polished or tarnished, we’ll buy & pay you

TOP DOllAr!!

• Gold 10k, 14k, 18k, 24k • Silver - Sterling • Sterling Flatware • Dental Gold

• Coins • Diamonds • Antique Jewelry • Paper Money • Antiques

• Watches • Clocks • WWII Collectables • Pocket Watches • Antique Toys and more …

From Persia, india, the Orient, & around the World Largest selection on West coast of Florida

end of season Blowout sale

uP to 70% off!

Priscilla Gratton

• Free Delivery to your home or condo • Free Shipping in the continental US with our delivery service • Family owned and operated for 18 years

G & M Estate Buyers

1974 Hillview St., Sarasota, Fl 34239

941-306-3600

Across from the Sarasota Memorial Parking Garage

16 South Blvd. of Presidents • Sarasota, FL

info@herizpersianrugsinc.com • (941) 388-2049

www.HerizPersianrugsinc.com

56927

Open Mon-Sat10am - 8:30pm • Sun 12pm-5:30pm

56143

>>

■

4 ■ Diversions >>

YourObserver.com

BACKSTAGE PASS

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

by Heidi Kurpiela | A&E Editor

Tour guide

IF YOU GO

“Lend Us Your Voice,” a documentary theater program run by the Asolo Repertory Theatre’s Education and Outreach Department, will present three original plays

by Sarasota and Manatee county teens May 20 to May 22, at the Asolo Rep’s Cook Theatre. Pulled from actual interviews with local residents, the performances will focus on technology, change, access and stress. For more information, call 351-8000 or visit www.asolorep.org.

Asolo Rep Education and Outreach Director Brian Hersh isn’t waiting for students to come to the theater. He’s staging it on their turf.

Ten years ago, Brian Hersh was a drummer living New York City.

Armed with a music degree from Indiana’s DePauw University, Hersh, an Ohio native, jammed with hard-rock bands and folkie singer/songwriters at bars and coffee shops.

“Celebrities would come to our gigs,” he says. “It was cool.”

Cool, but not professionally fulfilling.

Hungry to make a difference, he signed up to be a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters, for which he was paired up with a 13-year-old boy, whom he often took to museums, concerts and cultural landmarks around the city.

It was a relationship that would change the course of Hersh’s career.

“I realized that I could reach more people as an arts administrator than as a drummer,” Hersh says. “From that point I was on a new path.”

In 2002, he was hired by the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, where for five years he administered the organization’s Meet the Artist School Series, a program that draws more than 20,000 students each year to the famous 16-acre arts complex.

It taught Hersh, 34, a lot about

■

arts programming. Without it, he might not have ever landed his current position as education and outreach director at the Asolo Repertory Theatre.

“It was such an easy choice to move here,” says Hersh, who joined the Asolo Rep staff in 2008.

“The level of artistry in this area is amazing, and you can really make a big impact in a short amount of time.”

Case in point: During Hersh’s first year with the Asolo Rep, he helped launch the education department’s New Stages initiative, a collaborative project with the FSU/Asolo Conservatory aimed at producing more plays for young people.

The series, which stars thirdyear conservatory students, kicked off in 2008 with an adaptation of Lois Lowry’s award-winning book, “The Giver,” followed by last season’s critically acclaimed production of “Life in the Middle.”

Both plays reached thousands of local teens. Hersh, however, was convinced he could reach more.

“Schools intrinsically understand the value of live theater,” he says. “But it’s difficult to get them to come here in a traditional way.

Busing is complicated. Budgets are stretched. Time is an issue.”

Heidi Kurpiela

“I speak to a lot of community groups about the importance of education,” Brian Hersh says. “That’s the kind of performance I do. It comes from a sincere place, and it doesn’t require a lot of effort.”

So, he did something the theater company hasn’t done in 20 years: He took a show on the road.

This season’s production of “Antigone Now,” which opened Oct. 4, reached more than 10,000 students in just six weeks.

The cast and crew made 40 stops at schools and community centers from Tampa to Punta Gor-

da. Hersh attended about half of the shows.

“There were obvious costs and logistics to making it happen,” he says. “But it was so worth it.”

He wasn’t the only one who saw the value in resurrecting an Asolo Rep tour.

On April 29, Publix Super Markets Charities gave the theater a

$25,000 grant to go toward next season’s student matinees and touring production of “Hamlet.”

Hersh, along with Asolo Rep Managing Director Linda DiGabriele and Education Committee members Betty Jean Bavar and Susan Dweck, was there to accept the check.

“Everybody studies Shakespeare in school, but to see it performed in real life … doesn’t that instantly make it more exciting?”

Hersh asks.

The question is obviously rhetorical, but in asking it, Hersh seems to have reaffirmed his decision to leave New York and retire his drumsticks.

Now the father of two, he says he can’t imagine doing anything else for a living.

“Having kids helped shape things even more,” Hersh says.

“I look at my 2-year-old and she sings and dances and has that little spark, and I think, ‘She’s the reason I’m here doing what I do.’”

ay Mothere’csiaDl Sp

The Artist Series of Sarasota presents

Mother’s Day Facial $50.00 (regular $125) Radiesse® 1.5 cc $600 Second one for $50 OFF at same visit Get Botox Cosmetic® for $10.50 per unit Sclerotherapy $175.00 (for 10 min session) & Second session $25.00 OFF at same visit Lipo-Sculpture Second area 1/2 Price (May Only)

Mother’s Day Gift Certificates Available!

Erasers

TM

FREE vein screening everyday BOARD CERTIFIED VEIN SPECIALIST AND SURGEON WILL DETERMINE WHICH PROCEDURE WILL BENEFIT YOU

Body Enhancement Centers, Inc.

COURTENAY BUDD CHARLES WADSWORTH Soprano piano SUNDAY- MAY 22 & TUESDAY - MAY 24 at 7:30 P.M. “Arias and Art Songs” Beethoven, Liszt, Rachmanonoff, Strauss-Godowsky

(941) 907-3400 • (877) 414-VEIN (8346)

• Sclerotherapy • CoolTouch™ Laser Vein Treatment • Covered By Insurance

John V. Dunne, MD, FACS Medical Director

Florida Statues 456.062 THE PATIIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE

REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT OF ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT WHICH IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF THE ADVERTISEMENT AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT.

MAY 12, 2PM MAY 13, 8PM MAY 14, 8PM (CLOSE)

SUNDAY- JUNE 5 & TUESDAY - JUNE 7 at 7:30 P.M.

by

Ira LevIn

“Gershwin and Friends”

THE INNOCENTS

MAY 13, 8PM MAY 14, 8PM (CLOSE)

EEK FINALOW F !

REP SEASON

Historic Asolo Theater at the Ringling Museum of Art

360-7399

OPENING SOON: GEORGE GERSHWIN ALONE MAESTRO: THE ART OF LEONARD BERNSTEIN MARILYN: FOREVER BLONDE!

$10 OFF

SPONSORED BY

DEATHTRAP LAS MENINAS THE INNOCENTS

USE PROMO CODE: REP10 •

ONLINE • PHONE • BOX OFFICE

BEST SEATING AVAILABLE. NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFER OR PREVIOUSLY PURCHASED TICKETS.

Asolo Rep’s artistic programs are paid for in part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax Revenues.

BRYAN TORFEH & DANE DANDRIDGE, PHOTO BY FRANK ATURA.

ASOLOREP.ORG LAS MENINAS & THE INNOCENTS CONTAIN MATURE THEMES

57019

941-351-8000 57077

Sponsored by The Herald-Tribune Media Group, Spotlight Graphics, WUSF Public Media, The Observer Group, and Kirk-Pinkerton Attorneys. Concerts are paid for, in part, by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax revenues.

LAS MENINAS

MAY 12, 8PM MAY 14, 2PM MAY 15, 2PM (CLOSE)

The Bergonzi String Quartet with pianist Tian Ying Tickets online 24/7 at www.artistseries.net or call the box office

56714

8340 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Suite 290, Bradenton, FL • www.erasersinc.com

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

>>

■

EDIBLES

Diversions

YourObserver.com

■

5

by Molly Schechter | Food Editor

WHEN IT’S PIZZA NIGHT AT YOUR HOUSE… When I was young and going out to Mario’s or Pasquale’s, in Royal Oak, Mich., after a high school football game, pizza was simple and singular — a chewy, yeasty crust liberally smeared with acidic tomato sauce and topped with pepperoni and cheese. Oh, that cheese! Garden-variety mozzarella in strings that extended from as high up as your arm could hold the piece of pizza down to your mouth, and

sometimes below.

Today, pizza is everywhere and everything. Some fans stay close to the tried and true; others are more adventurous, exploring the likes of the Ritz-Carlton’s cremini mushroom white pizza. But even the most devoted bec fin brings a pizza home once in a while. Here are some folks’ choices across demography and geography.

Café Epicure — I like to sit at the bar, closer to the oven when it’s chilly outside. I just ask Pepe for a pizza with no cheese and whatever vegetables he wants to throw on there. I haven’t been disappointed.

— Colleen Yuskaitis, Sarasota

Courtesy photo

Mollie Nelson’s daughter, Kayla Nelson, 17, and great-granddaughter Taylor Todd, 18.

With 17- and 18-year-old girls running through the house, we have had quite a few cardboard boxes delivered on Friday and Saturday nights. Kayla insists on Domino’s.

I like it when we get Papa John’s.

While most normal people would go to the Ritz for fine dining, Sharon Black and I would sneak off for a little girl time and meet at the Cá D’Zan Lounge. Their “white” pizza is fabulous! They call it cremini mushroom white pizza with truffles, ricotta and spinach.

(Editor’s note: Yes, you can carryout pizza from the Ritz-Carlton bar.)

— Mollie Nelson, Sarasota

Molly Schechter

Local legends

Cá D’Zan Lounge at the Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota — 1111 Ritz-Carlton Drive, 309-2000 Ciáo Italia Casual Italian — 5370 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 383-0010

Café Epicure — 1298 N Palm Ave # A, Sarasota, 366-5648

Michael Angelo Pizza and Italian — 11517 Palmbrush Trail, Bradenton, 739-5656 Rico’s Pizza — multiple locations in Sarasota, 366-8988 Valentino Pizzeria Trattoria — 4045 Clark Road, 921-9600

This is easy. Ciáo is definitely our No. 1 pizza place. Lenny likes the pizza he grew up on in New Jersey.

So he needs sausage or pepperoni. I basically like what we call designer pizza ... lots of goat cheese, mozzarella, spinach, and no tomato sauce.

Ciáo will give us a half and half pizza if he leaves off the sauce. Then he gets a side order of sauce and fixes his pizza slices like he wants them.

We are both happy and full!

— Susan Landau, Longboat Key

Courtesy photo

Mine is Michael Angelo on State Road 70 and Lakewood Ranch Boulevard.

As close to New York pizza as you can get ...

— Iris Starr, Lakewood Ranch

OK, the best pizza is from Rico’s, and the reason is the crust — they make it there, slinging it around in the air — the whole bit. It is fabulous. My favorite toppings are anchovies and pepperoni, with lots of cheese.

— Butch Amerson, Sarasota

My favorite pizza is at Valentino Pizzeria Trattoria on Clark Road. They have a quaint eat-in restaurant, but I usually call for delivery. My favorite is the bruschetta pizza that has fresh tomato, basil, arugula and fresh mozzarella on a warm, brick-oven crust (the toppings are cold). They serve pizza by the slice and whole.

— Coral Pleas, Lakewood Ranch

Molly Schechter

Susan and Lenny Landau

Molly Schechter

We do order pizza — from Pizza Hut and others, including Little Caesar.

— Bruce and India Lesser, Laurel Oak

Cliff Roles

Molly Schechter

Back Pain? Sore Feet?

Bunions? Hammer Toe? Flat Feet? Plantar Fasciitis?

Arch Supports!

Get Relief with

FREE Pedigraph FREE Balance Demo FREE Personal Fitting Over 300 Styles & Sizes Fits ALL Your Shoes Try BEFORE You Buy Open 7 DAYS Per Week

20 OFF

$

Early DINING MON - SaT 4pm – 5 pm 10 Menu Choices for Just $10 each Wednesday - OSSO BuCCO SpECIal Open for Dinner Nightly • Serving Lunch Mon. - Fri.

Any Pair of Arch Supports

20 years family owned and operated    

Nightly Specials

4001 S. Tamiami Trail • Sarasota, FL • 941.921.4848 • www.cafebaci.net

47480

Function rooms available for up to 70 guests

OR

33% OFF Any Pair of Shoes When Purchased with any Arch Supports

Cannot be combined with any other offer Valid in Sarasota/Tampa Bay area ONLY.

Cannot be combined with any other offer Valid in Sarasota/Tampa Bay area ONLY.

Expires 5/25/2011

Expires 5/25/2011

The Good FeeT STore - SaraSoTa 4950 Fruitville Road - West of Honore (Next to KFC)

941 • 487 • 7974

GoodFeetTampaBay.com

57078

AUTHENTIC ITALIAN RESTAURANT

6 ■ Diversions

YourObserver.com

>>

■

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

REVIEWS

Film

YourObserver.com iPhone App is here!

>> ‘Queen

Search “YourObserver” in the Apple App Store today!

to Play’ Sandrine Bonnaire stars in “Queen to Play.”

Grab the latest news, events and photo galleries for Longboat Key, East County and Sarasota anytime, anywhere.

Don’t just read the news — play with it. Share with friends and

Courtesy photo

save articles, photos and events

Is playing chess sexy? In the new film, “Queen to Play,” it is. Passion for the game and what it elicits from its participants is at the heart of this compellingly clever dramedy.

Helene (Sandrine Bonnaire), a chambermaid at a Corsican luxury hotel, observes a couple playing chess while cleaning their room. The powerful sensual exchange between the two (Jennifer Beals and Dominic Gould) strangely arouses her. So much so, she purchases an electronic chess game for her handsome husband (Francis Renaud) as a birthday gift. He’s puzzled.

She’s excited.

Her husbands’s lack of interest sparks hers. She becomes obsessed with the game and plays in the middle of the night. When she discovers a chess set at the home of the reclusive American professor Dr. Kroger (Kevin Kline), for whom she cleans, Helene asks him to play. Reluctantly, he agrees, and eventually realizes she’s a natural. The two become intimate without ever touching.

That’s the beauty of “Queen to Play.” Two strangers evolve into an unlikely couple. He comes out of his shell while she finds the excitement so long missing from her life.

Helene’s relationship with her husband and daughter are enhanced by her newfound pas-

for later.

Features

Music

Cops Corner View, save and share police reports from Cops Corner.

Photos Browse and view our stunning Black Tie photo galleries live from your iPhone.

News Filter your neighborhood news by Longboat Key, East County or Sarasota.

>> Sarasota

Orchestra: Inventing the American Sound

Events View, save and share must-attend upcoming events.

YourObserver.com

54005

You. Your Neighbors. Your Neighborhood.

Search “YourObserver” in the Apple App Store today!

sion, and all becomes right with the world.

Caroline Bottaro’s directorial debut is definitely a dandy. She’s acutely aware of her leading lady’s disarming beauty and immense talent and uses it expertly. Her camera serves as the third participant in every exchange between her characters as well as the chessboard. The mere raising of Kline’s eyebrow or Bonnaire’s exotic smile speak volumes sans words. A lovely score and lush locales enhance the perfection of this wonderful film.

Some movies contain moments that etch themselves forever in the mind of the viewer. “Queen to Play” has many. My favorite is when Helene and Kroger play an imaginary game of chess gazing into one another’s eyes. Their love is chaste, their bond impenetrable.

Kline (“A Fish Called Wanda”) and Bonnaire (“Vagabond”) give their finest screen performances ever in “Queen to Play.” It’s a casting coup made in heaven.

Their chemistry is reminiscent of that between Rex Harrison and Audrey Hepburn in “My Fair Lady.” And, shockingly, Kline speaks fluent French, providing an extra “piece de resistance.” Ooh la la!

— Pam Nadon

Just what is the “American Sound”?

According to Leif Bjaland and the Sarasota Orchestra in their ingenious “Journeys to Genius” program, this country is a “musical melting pot,” using the resources of its many immigrants and pooling its musical genes with native cultures. At this past weekend’s “Inventing the American Sound,” a brilliantly conceived and executed performance

by Bjaland, the orchestra, baritone Michael Redding, tenor Brad Diamond and pianist Jonathan Spivey, with consultant Steve Schlow and video editor Austin McKinley, the field was narrowed down to three central innovators: the sons of of Russian Jewish émigrés Moses Beilin, Moisha Gershowitz and Morris Kaplan.

Irving (Beilin) Berlin, George (Gershowitz) Gershwin and Aaron (Kaplan) Copland did more than Americanize their surnames. They Americanized this country’s music. And, in telling their stories, Bjaland brought their lives, backgrounds, commonalities and music to vibrant life through a vivid script with wellchosen musical excerpts and imaginative videos that made this one of the most powerful concert-narratives yet.

There is, indeed, an American sound. Our popular music — yes, even today’s —has roots that reach far into Russia, Africa and the great plains of this country. And our socalled “classical” music, with its melodies of perfect fourths and harmonies of open, parallel fifths, may have been born across

Courtesy photo

Sarasota Orchestra’s Leif Bjaland the seas, but it’s the living, breathing flesh of America the beautiful.

The scant program, only four pages, devoted one entire side to copyright credits and, knowing the fine-tooth-comb eccentricities of the Berlin, Gershwin and Copland families and publishers, it probably took longer to obtain these permissions than to conceive, write, rehearse and perform the entire production.

Seeing Spivey’s hands superimposed over old black and white clips of New York; hearing a cleverly imagined conversation between Berlin and his music copyist trying to build just the right chord for a Berlin melody; watching Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers dancing “Cheek to Cheek” and Al Jolson mouthing “Swanee” over live piano, orchestral and vocal performances and, finally, hearing all of Copland’s “Appalachian Spring” in a superb reading, made 75 minutes of inspired musical communication worth the — June LeBell work.

■

YourObserver.com

Diversions

■

7

56954

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

THE SOCIAL OBSERVER

Black Tie YourObserver.com

By STEPHANIE HANNUM

Denise and Paul Smith

Montana Ross Page 11 THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2011

Photos by Stephanie Hannum

Wayne Seitl and his wife, Chairwoman Debbie, Kim Githler, Paul Bowman and Karin Gustafson

Black Tie Editor

The YMCA Foundation of Sarasota’s “Going for the Gold” has grown, changed (to “Element Au,” the symbol for pure gold) and improved over the past 20 years. The golden milestone was celebrated at this year’s “Element Au” Saturday, May 7, held at the Frank G. Berlin Sr. YMCA. During the evening, chaired by Debbie Seitl, more than 360 guests bid on the “pot of gold” silent auction items before sitting down for dinner, a performance by Rikki HettigRolfe, the live auction and, later, great music by The Venturas.

Prior to the extensive live auction for which the event is known, Foundation President Karin Gustafson noted that the past 19 years have generated a net of $6.5 million for the YMCA programs. This year’s gala raised more than $505,000, which pushes total contributions over the $7 million mark.

GUEST FASHION EDITOR

Jack and Judy Bloch

Stanley Kane and Deb Knowles

Roberto and Denise Mei

Mitchell and Dawn Epstein with Ethna and Ted Wishnie

Patrice and Rick McDaniel with Veronica Brady Sandy, Matt and Vern Buchanan with Teri Hansen

MORE PHOTOS ON PAGE 10

Elaine and Rod Hershberger

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

>>

■

Diversions

YourObserver.com

■

9

COLUMN

black tie tales

+ Black Tie Affair Dick Vitale Gala

V Foundation for Cancer Research • 6:30 p.m.

Friday, May 20 • The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota • Tickets $1,000 • Reservations 374-6026 The Sarasota social season goes out like a lion with the Dick Vitale Gala May 20. The alwaysa-sellout event is the town’s only annual benefit to command $1,000 per person, and it is out to beat its own record of $1.2 million raised for the V Foundation for Cancer Research, which benefits cancer research and related programs. Mary Kenealy-Barbetta is chairwoman, and Joe Barbetta

by Molly Schechter | Social Editor

+ The best laid plans

Dennis Stover and Phil King were all but packed and ready to leave for L.A. in late April to see “Dancing with the Stars,” a trip they bought at the Humane Society’s Hot Dogs and Cool Cats last fall.

But the company providing the package couldn’t come through with the original dates, so they are now looking forward to going in late May. Penny Hill and Larry Wild, on the other hand, bought a similar trip at the Cattle Barons’ Ball April 16, thinking it was for the 2012 season … only to find themselves on a plane May 6.

Molly Schechter

Tom Coundit, SYC Chef Jack Wenz and Lou Bevilacqua

+ Roasters toast at SYC Sarasota has a chapter of bailliage of the Chaine des Rôtisseurs, the world’s oldest gastronomic society. The name comes from the old French royal guild of meat roasters, or rôtisseurs. The organization’s primary focus is excellence in food and wine, which members enjoyed most recently April 17, at the Sarasota Yacht Club. Chef Jack Wenz created an impressive

menu, and Thomas Coundit, president, and Lou Bevilacqua, vice president, came up with the wine pairings. A grand time was enjoyed by Chaine members and their guests, including Bob and Joan Brand, Fred and Judy Fiala, and Lee and Kathy Pokoik.

Wenz notes that the over-the-top menu was also great fun for the young chefs in his kitchen. For membership info, call Coundit at 378-4599.

+ Living happily ever after …

Two couples were celebrating couplehood quite differently at Circus Sarasota’s Laughter Unlimited luncheon. Dolores and Frank Infanger are closing in on their 60th wedding anniversary, while Dan Pressler and Marge Markman want it known that at age 80, they are a happily unmarried couple. Congratulations to both!

Photos by Molly Schechter

Far left: Dan Pressler and Marge Markman Left: Dolores and Frank Infanger

and John Moran are co-chairs for this year’s gala, which honors college basketball coaches John Calipari, of Kentucky, and North Carolina’s Roy Williams, and tennis legend Nick Bollettieri. All four head coaches of this year’s Final Four teams will be present with national champion Connecticut’s Jim Calhoun, Butler’s Brad Stevens and Virginia Commonwealth University’s Shaka Smart joining Calipari. The celebs pay their own way to the gala as their personal donation to the Foundation — quite a tribute to their friendship with Dick Vitale.

+ Tidbits Scientifically blonde … An unexpectedly large number of women showed up May 6 at the Field Club for a planning session for Women in Science, a new program to benefit the Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation. The call to arms came from foundation board Chairwoman Margaret Wise. She has recruited Ann Charters, who ran a similar program as chairwoman for Rockefeller University, in New York City. The annual program will showcase the research being conducted at the hospital in conjunction with major universities, Harvard among them. Look for a launch event in January … Major Major …

Flora Major recently became a member of CAMIT — the Council of the Arts at MIT …

Drinks with a new twist … it had to happen. Pablo Castro, proprietor of Selva Grill, has created five martinis named in honor of local organizations,

Molly Schechter

Margaret Wise, Alex Quarles and Ann Charters and $1 from the sale of each drink will benefit its namesake.

The names are irresistibly clever and largely self-explanatory: Orchestratini, Exploratini, Crescendotini, Dramatini and Manatini. Skål! … The Y Tabernacle? ... The crowd of 360 sang “Happy Birthday” to YMCA Foundation of Sarasota Board Chairman Paul Bowman at Element Au last weekend …

Can it be over so soon? … As this season comes to an end, you are invited to submit calendar information about your events for next year to Black Tie Editor Stephanie Hannum, shannum@YourObserver.com.

Observe

what you are missing...

Arts coverage

hEAdS AbOvE thE rESt!

Local News that’s

LOCAL NEWS! YourObserver.com

55957

49655

49655

You. Your Neighbors. Your Neighborhood.

10 ■ Diversions >>

YourObserver.com

■

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

CAMERA READY

‘ELEMENT AU’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

American Business Women’s Association Runway Party American Business Women’s Association Saturday, April 30 | Michael’s On East

Jay and Candy Swick with Tom and Sue Coleman

Photos by Stephanie Hannum

Annie and Barb Sirpilla with Stephania Feltz

Donna Simmons and Jack Flynn Herta Bowes and Cheryl Stock

Kimberly Manooshian

Lynn Morris and Susan Samson

57034

55577

Ann Davy and Nora Nowicki

56856

Charles and Heloisa Jennings

>>

■

FASHION

Diversions

YourObserver.com

guestfashioneditor Young and stylish Montana Ross believes in investing in staple pieces but loves to pair them with “hidden gems” from discount stores. The international sales executive for Money Show also pulls inspiration for her style from her worldwide travels.

NANETTE LEPORE DRESS “I love to wear color, and I love the color and fit of this dress.

Fit makes or breaks an outfit — I never buy anything that doesn’t H&M BLAZER “I’m not afraid to pair different and unique color combos.

This blazer is feminine but definitely has a little edge.”

PEARLS “My mom gave these to me for my college graduation. I wear pearls to work all the time. They go with everything and really make an outfit look more classy.”

ARE YOU READY for Beach Season?

150

$

“I have a feminine and eclectic look. I change my style based on my mood.”

TRICIA FIX TOP “This is one of my favorite tops — it looks great with skinny jeans and a white blazer.”

“energetic and lively” - Sarasota Herald-Tribune

• 1 Month Membership • 1 Fitness Assessment • 1 Personal Training Session (Savings of $90)

“stellar performance” - Pelican Press

The Finest in Full-Service Fitness • TRX Suspension Training • Post & Pre-Menopausal Fitness Weight Loss & Nutrition • Competitive & Stage Training • Post-Rehab & Senior Fitness • Body Definition & Sculpting 1990 Main St 2nd Flr, Sarasota

by Seth Rozin

“Now that’s great theatre”

May 13 - June 3, 2011

Community Exhibitions

- Miami Herald

Gallery I:

Women Contemporary Artists Gallery II:

Herbie Rose Opening reception: Friday, May 13, 5-7 p.m.

Selby Gallery Hours

Head Writer: Rebecca Langford, Contributing Writers: Stephan deGhelder, Bobby Mitchell, Jim Prosser, Adam Ratner, Additonal Material by: Joseph Matheson and Traci Kanaan

Monday-Friday, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm.

Contact Us

2700 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL, 34234 Phone: 941.359.7563 or 941.351.5100 Email: selby@ringling.edu

“smart, sharp and unarguably funny”

Location

Selby Gallery is located on the Ringling College of Art and Design campus, one-half block east of 2700 N. Tamiami Trail on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Way in Sarasota.

Jamie Day, Gavin Esham, Stephen Hope.

Photo by Amy Steinmetz

Paid for in part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax revenues.

- SRQ Magazine

Paid for in part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax Revenues

Visit on the Web: www.ringling.edu/selbygallery 56211

56784

SNAKESKIN CLUTCH “I designed this bag while on a trip overseas with my mom. I got to pick out the skin and added the handle.

The color is great with any outfit.”

Sarasota Festival of New Plays

Includes

www.MyEvolutionFitnessClub.com

HERMES SCARF “This brings in bright color to any outfit.

I like to wear the scarf in my hair or tied around a shirt collar for work.”

JIMMY CHOO SHOES “These shoes were my first big splurge after I got my ‘adult’ job. I love patent and the Mary Jane style.”

TORY BURCH SHOES “I love having accessories in metallics, because you can wear them with anything and they make any outfit pop.”

TOP SHOP BLAZER “Everyone should have a classic black blazer in their closet. This goes great over dresses, with skinny jeans or even shorts. The cotton is so light and comfortable, and it’s great for traveling.”

FOREVER 21 SKIRT “This is the perfect example of my love for finding low-cost items. Forever 21 has great finds. I’ve gotten more wear out of this than anything else in my closet.”

J BRAND JEANS “I would wear these every day if I could — they seem to go with everything.

I roll them up to wear with flats, or I wear them at night with heels.”

MONTANA ROSS

RENE ESCOBAR BRACELETS “I am a big accessories person — they can change the look of a whole outfit. My staple item is this set of gold bangles. They always make me feel pulled together.”

FREE GARAGE PARKING

11

by Stephanie Hannum | Black Tie Editor TOP SHOP DRESS “This is my typical feminine dress — I love the fit and color.

And, it’s so easy to accessorize with jewelry or a blazer and a belt.

I’m in London a lot for work, and I can’t leave without making a stop at Top Shop.”

Patricia Valenti, Owner - IFBB Pro Athlete

■

Richard Hopkins, Artistic Director

e last two surviving Jews in Kabul have one big problem: they can’t stand each other! Can they overcome all odds to repopulate the community?

George Tynan Crowley. Warren Kelley.

Photo by Amy Steinmetz

1241 N. Palm Ave. ~ Downtown Sarasota

366-9000

56855

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

www.floridastudiotheatre.org

12 ■ Diversions

YourObserver.com

Highest Overall Satisfaction for Home Sellers Among National Full Service Real Estate Firms

A Wealth of Experience.

A Commitment to This Community.

00 20,0 ed $ c u d Re

■

Shor

THURSDAY, may 12, 2011

le t Sa

No One Knows Sarasota Better.

Prudential is your top choice when you are ready to buy or sell a home in Sarasota.

Our award-winning local Realtors have the experience and expertise to guide you, and they consistently deliver premier service that caters to every client’s unique needs.

Locally owned and nationally supported, Prudential is proud to contribute to the natural beauty, cultural events and extraordinary people that make this community a great place to live. Call us today and let us match you with the house that perfectly suits your definition of home.

$339,000 Fairway Bay Short Sale, Comm. pool, golf, tennis + beach access to Bay Isles Beach Club.

A3934939 Michelle Musto 809-3714 0 4,00

d $5

ce Redu

$795,000 Siesta Key Canal-front 3BR/3BA , pool, dock w/lift. Wkly Rentals.

A3941821 Rudy Dudon 234-3991 ced Redu

0 4,00 $22

Personalized Service. Trusted Agents.

941-926-7000 www.PrudentialPalmsRealty.com

$445,000 Casa del Mar Partial Gulf view, End unit, Turnkey furnished, Upgrades.

A3931700 Teri Sax 228-5578 ced Redu

00

,000 $114

ced Redu ced Redu

,000 $149

LAKEWOOD RANCH HOUSING SHOWCASE!!

$834,200 Longboat Key Moorings The largest slip at A Perfect Day to Get Moving!

Longboat Key Moorings. T-Slip is 194’ in length, easy access in/out of Marina. Offers 3 phase power. A3941060 Marty Bensonyour 232-9264 Jumpstart housing search!!!

ced!

Redu

$950,000 Manatee River Panoramic views of the River. Deep water dockage.

A3919430 Courtney Campbell 806-7238

• See 17 of the “Best Buys” in Lakewood Ranch Reduced $30K $829,000 Longboat- Grand Bay Gorgeous Bay & Golf Course Views. 3BR/3.5BA condo w/ Island • Register to win a $200 American Express Decor.

Private Elevator Entrance. Pet friendly. A3937063 Gift Certificate David & Lori Simon 400-8764

$514,900 Condo on the Bay Remodeled 2/2 Downtown with Bay views. Amenities.

A3906022 Marty Benson 232-9264

0,0 $25

Reduced $100K! $699,000 Osprey - The Oaks Custom home with many upgrades! Marble/travertine & bamboo flooring, open floor plan. Lake & golf course views. Gated.

A3931128 Shirley LaGrange 894-4297 Sunday, May 1st, from 1-4 pm

$485,000 Seaplace II Short Sale, 3/2 turn key furn., Deeded Beach access & pool.

A3928641 Jan Huff 735-8700 Just

$875,000 Siesta Estates Gated enclave of 15 homes, Close to Siesta Village A3908647 owner/agent Kim Madden 650-4416

$950,000 Tangerine Bay Club, Longboat Key Gorgeous Penthouse, Turnkey furnished, 2 Terraces.

A3923029 Michael Granston 504-8018 ! n o Milli $2.1 ced u d e R

00

,0 $50 ced Redu

• Talk to an onsite financial expert about your financing needs Reduced $40K $529,500 Siesta- Crystal Sands 2BR/2BA Turn-key furnished villa w/garage .Totally updated with granite • Visit our Real Estate Information Center kitchen & baths. 2wk rental. A3933606 Team Mitchell 586-1754 at 8141 Main Street, Lakewood Ranch ~ Enjoy refreshments Reduced $60K $475,000 Siesta-Sara Sands Roomy home on acre ~ Get real estate market information and a list of 1/3 lot with 105 ft. of sea-walled canal frontage with dock. waterway bank-owned and distressed properties Wide leads to Bay. A3938533 Kim Gilliland 809-5151 • Trying to decide between building or buying Reduced $16K $369,000 Siesta - Siesta Village Area Full an existing home?

Gulf views! 2BR/2BA Condo. Pool, carport, storage & fish pier. ~ Attend a short seminar presented by Gibraltar Homes ing A3941592 Bob Stahlschmidt 266-2684

ced Redu

$1,299,000 Beau Ciel Lux. Bayfront Downtown, Private elevator, 24 hr. Concierge.

A3922970 Linda A. Page 504-01234 l

iona

rnat

Inte

• Learn the pros and cons of both

Reduced $10K $219,900 Longboat - Beach Harbor Club Move in Ready, Beachand to Bay at a great price! Many For more information directions: updates to this 2BR/2BA unit. Great amenities. Low Maint. visit A3940119 www.PruLWR.com or call 941-907-2000 fees.

Harris/Mondello 780-2352 $649,500 Islands West $2,200,000 Panoramic Gulf, Bay & City views, Floor to ceiling windows. 1 acre directly on Gulf, 100ft of beachfront.

A3940585 Mark Huber 356-2435 A379491

Longboat Key Beachfront Owner/agent 586-4052

$2,000,000 Christ Church, Barbados Near Accra & Worthing Beach. El Sueno a treasure for an astute developer.

A3940351 Rayman/Tan 724-0519

941-926-7000 ~ Over 5,000 listings on our website: PrudentialPalmsRealty.com Prudential Lakewood Ranch Realty and Prudential Palms Realty are sister companies serving Manatee and Sarasota Counties. © 2011. An independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc. Prudential, the Prudential logo and the Rock symbol are service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc. and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. Used under license.

Equal Housing Opportunity

50781

Offices to conveniently serve you including: Downtown Sarasota Lakewood Ranch ~ Longboat Key ~ Siesta Key ~ St. Armands Circle ~ Osprey