Longboat Observer - Thursday, August 4, 2011

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LONGBOAT

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NEWS

Beth Callans Management issues bring uncertainty for Key properties and staff.

PAGE 8A.

OUR TOWN

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Thursday, AUGUST 4, 2011

NEIGHBORHOOD

DIVERSIONS

The Morean Arts Center is home to 16 Chihuly installations.

INSIDE.

ruling reversal

Mote Marine’s summer camp allows campers hands-on fun.

PAGE 13A

by Kurt Schultheis | Sarasota City Editor

OVERTURNED Judge reverses bankruptcy rulings against the Colony.

+ Stolen pot issue buds on island

It seems Longboat Key has a pot problem. No, the town isn’t going up in smoke. But two residents reported pots stolen last week from outside their yards. Both incidents were reported July 27 in Country Club Shores. In one incident, the pot poacher dumped the flowers out, and in the second snatching, the theft also grabbed a yard ornament. Keep your eyes peeled for this pot — and call police at 316-1977 if you have any information.

+ Key ballerina is recognized Tessa Sollom Williams, former ballet coach for the pre-junior ballet students of Sarasota Ballet School, was recognized for her work by the Royal Academy of Dance, in London. She received a certificate and letters of appreciation. She owned a ballet school in Washington for 34 years and taught at the Sarasota Ballet for nine.

After 48 years of instructing, she says she is now enjoying the Key’s beaches.

SEE OUR TOWN / PAGE 14A

Turtle tracks Week of July 24 through July 30

Nests...............................13 False crawls.....................27

2011 2010

Nests

256

239

False crawls 225

206

Turtle nest opening

— will take place at 7:45 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 3, at Tiffany Plaza, 4325 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Park at Longboat Harbour Towers, 4401 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

Rachel S. O’Hara

In 1972, the Colony Beach & Tennis Resort became the first condominium-hotel rental partnership in the state. The Colony property has virtually stood empty since August 2010, after unit owners took possession of their units, and the hotel closed.

After a reversal of the Colony Beach & Tennis Resort bankruptcy rulings, Dr. Murray ‘Murf’ Klauber could recoup damages from the Colony Association.

“Vindication” is the word Dr. Murray “Murf” Klauber uses to describe what he is feeling.

Tampa-based U.S. District Judge Steven D. Merryday, in two orders released July 27, reversed the actions and rulings on August 2009 Colony Beach & Tennis Resort bankruptcy rulings made by U.S. Bankruptcy Judge K. Rodney May. Klauber appealed the August 2009 bankrupt- Klauber cy rulings, rulings that eventually led to the eradication of his hotel Partnership with the

resort’s 232 unit owners (the Colony Association) and forced him to close his 45-year-old resort.

In essence, Merryday sided with Klauber on the fundamental argument Klauber has with the Association: Klauber has always maintained the Association was required to pay for repairs and make assessments to keep up the common elements of the property.

The Association disagreed, which led Klauber to file an April 2007 lawsuit seeking $14

million from the Association.

That started years of legal battles that led to the resort’s closure in August 2010.

Merryday cites in his appeal ruling that the Association was still liable to make assessments to the property’s common elements, even if it voted not to pay for two separate emergency repair assessments that came before unit owners.

“Miracles do happen,” Klauber said. “I’m ecstatic. Honesty and justice has survived in this great country.”

SEE COLONY / PAGE 2A

INSIDE Page 2: Timeline of Colony legal proceedings  Page 3: A breakdown of U.S. District Judge Steven Merryday’s rulings  Page 4: Who’s Who? of Colony players  Page 5: What’s next for the Colony? 

Yourobserver.com • Read U.S. District Judge Steven Merryday’s entire rulings • Colony unit owner forecloses on Klauber

INDEX Briefs....................4A Classifieds ........ 25A

Cops Corner....... 12A Crossword.......... 24A

Deal Us In......... 23A Opinion.................6A

Real Estate........ 18A Weather............. 24A

Vol. 34, No. 1 | Two sections YourObserver.com

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

COLONY / FROM PAGE 1A Merryday stated several times in his appeal rulings that “the bankruptcy court erred” and went above and beyond its power when it ruled to dissolve the Partnership and claim unit owners who made their units available for hotel use didn’t need to pay assessments.

Sarasota attorney Morgan Bentley, who represents former Colony recreation leaseholder Carolyn Field, called the reversal rulings surprising.

“There are valid arguments on both sides,” Bentley said. “It was surprising to me to see the initial order, and, now, the reversal.”

Merryday’s rulings also mean Klauber may be able to seek damages from the Association’s rejection of Klauber’s previous proposals for resort redevelopment. The rulings also mean that lessors of a recreational lease that May rejected may be able to seek damages because 65 years of the 99-year lease still remain.

Both sides have differing opinions on what the rulings mean (see Page 5A).

Klauber and Colony General Manager Katie Moulton released a joint statement to the Longboat Observer, expressing that they felt vindicated by the appeal rulings.

“The orders speak for themselves and obviously vindicate our operation of the Colony Beach and Tennis Resort and our claims against the association,” the release states. “Sadly, the Colony was closed wrongly as we claimed from the start of the legal disputes. We are eager to hear the decision on remedies to us as a result of the reversals, and are committed to continuing our efforts toward a rehabilitation of The Colony.”

Colony Association President Jay Yablon declined to comment, but sent an email to unit owners Thursday, calling the rulings “disappointing” but “not final.”

“These non-final rulings do not deter the Association from continuing forward with our efforts to revitalize the Colony,” Yablon wrote. “If anything, the remedy that the judge suggests in his ruling to get the Colony fixed is exactly what we have been intently focused upon already.”

Yablon, meanwhile, told unit owners they still intend to select a development proposal by the end of August and allow owners to vote on the proposal by early October. Any development chosen, however, could not move forward until the legal appeals are exhausted.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

Timeline: The case for the Colony  1969 — Dr. Murray “Murf”

Klauber and a business partner purchased the Colony for $3.5 million with plans to turn it into a “tenniscentric” resort.

1972 — Klauber formed the first condominium/hotel-rental partnership agreement in the state. According to the arrangement, unit owners would be both members of the Association and a limited partner in the Partnership; Klauber would serve as the general partner in the Partnership.

1984 — An agreement that would become key to the dispute between the Association and Partnership permitted the Partnership to commit the portion of the hotel’s profit that is owed to the limited partners to pay for repairs to common elements, which the Association is required to maintain.

December 2004 — The Association’s board of directors discussed the need for approximately $10 million in repair to the resort’s common elements.

December 2005 — Unit owners voted to reject a $10.6 million emergency assessment for repair and improvement of common elements.

December 2006 — Unit owners rejected a second proposed assessment and elected three new board members. The new board then audited the Partnership and stopped repaying the Partnership for operational expenses that were the Association’s responsibility.

April 2007 — The Partnership sued the Association in state court, seeking damages and a determination that

the governing documents compel the Association to assess unit owners $2.1 million that the Partnership spent on repair, and an injunction compelling the Association to assess unit owners.

The Association claimed that the 1984 agreement is ultra vires and that the partnership had violated the agreement.

November 2008 — The Colony Association filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in Tampa. A federal bankruptcy judge made the final decision on a twoyear-old disagreement between the unit owners and resort operators.

April 2009 — Bank of America filed a foreclosure suit against Klauber and seven of his corporations.

October 2009 — The Colony’s hoteloperating entity filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, putting the resort’s debts on hold.

November 2009 — The bankruptcy court found the 1984 agreement ultra vires, the Partnership’s damage calculation prohibitively speculative, denied the Partnership relief and declared moot the Association’s other counterclaims and third-party claims.  December 2009 — Bankruptcy Court Middle District of Florida Judge K. Rodney May approved the re-opening of 100 rooms at the Colony and a $175,000 loan to Murf Klauber.

July 2009 — A federal bankruptcy judge ruled in favor of the Association.

August 2009 — A federal bankruptcy court ruled in favor of the Association, finding the 1984 agreement ultra vires and the Partnership’s calculations “prohibitively speculative.” The motion denied the partnership relief and declared “moot” the Association’s other counterclaims and third-party claims.  Sept. 22, 2009 — Klauber and

Katie Moulton announced hotel operations would be suspended until further notice.

April 2010 — The Colony Association asked May to convert the case from a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing to a Chapter 7 liquidation, which would make the Colony into a condominium association instead of a hotel resort.

August 2010 — May converted the Colony Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization to a Chapter 7 liquidation, giving the resort’s 232 unit owners complete control of their units. As a result, the Colony hotel closed.

July 2011 — A federal bankruptcy appeals court judge ruled in favor of Klauber in his appeal of the August 2009 bankruptcy rulings.

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longboat Observer

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

rule of law

3A

by Robin Hartill | City Editor

Breakdown: What Judge Merryday said The following is a breakdown of Tampa-based U.S. District Judge Steven D. Merryday’s two orders that reversed the actions and rulings made by U.S. Bankruptcy Judge K. Rodney May in August 2009 concerning the Colony Beach & Tennis Resort bankruptcy hearings.

… the limits of bankruptcy court …

“Bankruptcy courts are not Article III courts and therefore may not exercise the judicial power of the United States,” Merryday wrote, citing a 1991 11th Circuit Court decision.

To distinguish between the roles of bankruptcy court and judicial court, Congress created core proceedings (i.e. those involving issues that can only exist within the scope of bankruptcy court) and noncore proceedings (those that involve issues outside of the bankruptcy court’s jurisdiction).

“A bankruptcy court can issue a final order on a core proceeding but can only propose findings of fact and conclusions on a non-core proceeding,” Merryday wrote.

The Association argued that each of its claims were core proceedings, but Merryday disagreed.

When the Bankruptcy Court ruled in favor of the Association, it acknowledged that the Partnership had its claims in state court and that each claim could exist outside of bankruptcy, Merryday wrote.

Merryday wrote: “To the governance of the condominium form of real estate ownership and those participating, the federal bankruptcy law is an awkward and unwelcome intruder.”

Merryday concluded: “Because each claim is a non-core proceeding, the bankruptcy court’s findings of fact and conclusions of law receive de novo review.”

… responsibility for maintenance/ upkeep …

“Under the documents governing the Association and the Partnership, the Association bears ultimate responsibility to pay for repair and maintenance of the Colony’s common elements,” Merryday wrote.

According to the ruling, the bankruptcy court “erroneously” interpreted Article 7.2 of the declaration to mean that unit owners who made their units available to the Partnership for hotel use are relieved from paying assessments — a finding that “startles, because Article 7.2 plainly relieves a unit owner from assessment ‘only to the extent that the Partnership makes such payments and assumes all other responsibilities of a unit owner in that regard,’” Merryday said.

The ruling states that the parties agree that the 1984 Agreement relieves the Association from paying for repair of common elements “to the extent that cash is available to the Partnership” for repair.

However, the bankruptcy court incorrectly determined that the Partnership became directly responsible for payment of all expenses related to common elements.

“The Association and the bankruptcy judge overlook the conspicuous and inescapable ‘solely to the extent cash is available’ qualification that dramatically controls the meaning of the 1984 Agreement.

Because of the qualification, the Partnership is free to pay for the repair of the common elements solely with money otherwise payable to the unit owners in their capacity as limited partners. The 1984 Agreement and 10th Amendment transfer initial, but not final, responsibility to the Partnership for such expenses.”

According to the 1984 Agreement, obligations, such as repair of common elements are the responsibility of the Association, but the day-to-day hotel operations of the Colony are not.

“The bankruptcy court again conflated the hotel’s operating costs (for which the Association bears no responsibility) and the common element repair cost (for which the Association bears full responsibility),” the ruling stated.

Legal speak Ultra vires: Beyond the scope, or in excess of legal power or authority.

… the unit owners’ votes…

Merryday wrote that the bankruptcy court’s ruling was “oversimple and erroneous” in its conclusion that the 2005 and 2006 assessments were “emergency” assessments and that the Partnership could not force the Association to make an assessment that unit owners twice voted down.

The bankruptcy court then concluded that the Association could not assess unit owners for repair of common elements unless a majority of unit owners voted to approve the assessment.

“The bankruptcy court’s conclusion is utterly foreign to Florida’s statutory regime, which is calculated to ensure the maintenance and repair of the common elements enjoyed by each of Florida’s 1.3 million condominium residents,” the ruling stated.

Merryday wrote that the bankruptcy court ruled that the Association should pay for “major capital improvements” through “special assessment” — despite the fact that there is no mention of “special assessment” in the declaration of bylaws.

“Even were a vote required, the bankruptcy court failed to explain on what ground unit owners may casually ‘vote away’ the obligation of the Association to pay for repairs to the common elements. The governing statute, the governing documents and common sense reject this notion,” Merryday wrote.

1984 AGreement The preamble to the 1984 Agreement states, in part: “Whereas, the Association is responsible for payment of certain obligations pertaining to [the Colony] including the establishment of reserves therefore, all of which are described in the Declaration … (hereinafter together the Obligations) including, without limitation, expenditures for repairs, maintenance and insurance of the Common Areas as described in the Declaration [and] expenditures for capital improvements … ”

… governing documents and Florida law …

Merryday ruled that the bankruptcy court was correct in its conclusion that the Colony’s governing documents “must be strictly construed” and found that the distributions and preferential amount were “in accordance with the governing documents.”

“Someone interested in becoming a unit owner in the Colony enjoyed full disclosure — guaranteed by Florida’s condominium laws — of the governing documents. A buyer saw exactly what a buyer would get,” he wrote.

Merryday found that the parties’ dispute was one governed by Florida law — particularly the Condominium Act — rather than bankruptcy law, writing: “The Condominium Act expressly provides that the Association is responsible for the maintenance and repair of the common elements” and “ … the Condominium Act requires the Association to prevent deterioration of the common elements.

“Further, by allowing the Colony to deteriorate, the Board and the majority of the members impermissibly altered the common elements to the detriment of a minority of the members,” Merryday wrote.

The ruling stated that the Association cannot escape its obligation to maintain common elements for use by the Partnership by declaring the obligation ultra vires (see box).

“In sum, each matter the bankruptcy court found important was a mischievous distraction because Florida law requires the Association to pay for the maintenance of the common elements,” Merryday wrote.

By the numbers The following is a breakdown of the frequency of some common words in Judge Steven D. Merryday’s ruling to describe the bankruptcy court’s actions: Erroneously............................. 10 Erred........................................ 3

Erroneous................................. 2 Error......................................... 1

… who was damaged? …

The bankruptcy court was wrong in rejecting the Partnership’s claim for damages, Merryday wrote. Pre-petition damages arise directly from the Association’s refusal to pay the obligations before the Partnership sued the Association. Merryday cited expert testimony from Dr. Henry Fishkind that showed post-petition damages that show that hotel revenue would have “dramatically recovered” had the Association repaired common elements properly. Merryday wrote that the hotel earned a profit in 16 of the preceding 19 years before 2005 and that four of the six losing years the bankruptcy court cited occurred after the Association refused to pay for repairs.

“The bankruptcy court’s rejection of damages due to ‘the Hotel’s history of being unprofitable’ was clear error.”

Although the Partnership submitted four damage scenarios, the bankruptcy court rejected each, stating that the occupancy and average daily rates had never been determined.

The Partnership tried, but failed, to show that a bank offered a loan to the Partnership contingent upon the Association paying for repair to common elements. “ … if the Partnership failed to obtain a loan, the failure occurred as, and likely because, the Association failed to honor the obligation to pay for repairing the common elements,” Merryday wrote.

But Merryday concluded that the Association could move forward with counterclaims that were tossed out in bankruptcy court.

“The contemplated reversals occur, and the reconsideration must occur also. The Partnership’s objection to the finding of mootness is moot.

… mismanagement allegations …

“An undercurrent in the bankruptcy court’s decision is that putative mismanagement by the Partnership excuses the Association’s ignoring the obligation to pay for repair of the common elements,” Merryday wrote.

However, Merryday wrote that, although the bankruptcy court implied impropriety, it did not adjudge the existence or effect of supposed impropriety.

“If the bankruptcy court believed that the Partnership’s accounting or other practices relieved the Association of the obligation to honor the governing documents, the bankruptcy court needed to say so explicitly and attempt to explain why. The bankruptcy court certainly presented no reason that an accounting impropriety, if proven, justifies entirely dissolving the As-

sociation’s obligation to pay for the repair of the common elements,” Merryday wrote, noting that even if improprieties did exist, the proper course would be a claim under Florida’s applicable law, rather than the “wholesale annulment of the governing documents.”

“Another assumption floating ominously yet indeterminately” in the bankruptcy court’s decision is the presumption that the governing documents are unfair.

“The portrayal of unit owners as trapped in an onerous agreement is unfounded,” Merryday wrote.

According to the ruling, the Partnership contributed more than $27 million in hotel revenue toward repair of common elements and nearly $5 million toward the real estate taxes of units between 1987 and 2008. During that period, unit

owners received $33.76 million in distributions, and the general partner received $4.59 million.

“About this component of the arrangement — the value of the Colony to the unit owners throughout the past decades — the bankruptcy court said not a word,” Merryday wrote. “Given the historical value figures and the fact that the revenue for maintaining the Colony for decades came entirely from the effort of the Partnership, where is the unfairness?”

Merryday wrote that although the general partner received distributions after the hotel began losing money, those distributions were matched dollar-for-dollar in addition to the $1,398,000 preferential amount, and continued to enjoy 30 days of use of their units for “dramatically less than cost.”

4A

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

COLONY KEY PLAYERS

Katie Moulton, former general manager, and Dr. Murray “Murf” Klauber, longtime Colony owner Klauber owned and ran the Colony Beach & Tennis Resort for 42 years. He sued the Colony Association in April 2007 for failing to assess its owners for maintenance as the resort condominium documents require.

Moulton, Klauber’s daughter, was the resort’s general manager until August 2010. Both feel vindicated by an appeals ruling last week.

These are the key players in the Colony Beach & Tennis Resort’s future.

K. Rodney May U.S. Bankruptcy judge

Charlie Bartlett Attorney for Klauber

Randy Langley and David Siegal Colony Lender LLC principals

The longtime attorney for Klauber believes the most recent appeal rulings could allow the bankruptcy court to reinstate the Partnership between the unit owners and Klauber, while mandating that the Association begin assessing its unit owners again for both upkeep and as part of a potential damages ruling.

Siegal and Langley purchased $10 million overdue bank loans they are now foreclosing upon and have a lien on 100% of Klauber’s Colony properties. They also own a first mortgage on Klauber’s 80% of the recreational properties and own by deed a 15% interest in the recreational properties.

Maloney oversaw the eradicated partnership between the unit owners and Klauber, which is currently in Chapter 7 liquidation.

Merryday’s recent rulings might allow Klauber to seek damages that Maloney could use to pay Klauber’s unpaid creditors.

May ruled in August 2009 that the Colony Association was not required to assess its unit owners to pay for the general upkeep of the Colony’s common grounds.

An appeals judge has completely disagreed with that ruling and other aspects of May’s subsequent rulings.

Jeffrey Warren Colony Association attorney

Steven D. Merryday U.S. District judge

Jay Yablon Colony Association president

Carolyn Field Former stakeholder in rec lease

Warren, the attorney for the Association, believes the Colony’s partnership between its unit owners and Klauber is null and void despite the recent rulings.

Last week, Merryday reversed 2009 rulings made by U.S. Bankruptcy Judge K. Rodney May. Merryday also ruled in the mid1990s to award Klauber $9 million from Longboat taxpayers.

Yablon, the voice of the unit owners and its board, believes the Association is already on the path to the Colony’s future revitalization by selecting a renovation proposal in the next few months.

Field sold her 15% interest in the Colony’s recreation property to Colony Lender LLC, but seeks to gain from any damages a judge levies for compensation to the recreation lease.

William Maloney United States Bankruptcy Court Middle District of Florida trustee

Andy Adams Colony unit owner A unit owner and former Colony Association board member, Adams owns a 5% interest in the Colony’s recreation property, has submitted a renovation proposal currently under consideration by the board and is foreclosing on overdue bank loans he purchased that are tied to Klauber’s living quarters penthouse and Vagabond beachfront hotel unit.

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

by Kurt Schultheis | Sarasota City Editor

Colony: What happens next?

Both sides in the ongoing Colony Beach & Tennis Resort bankruptcy litigation case differ on what recent federal appeals court rulings mean for the future.

Longtime Colony Beach & Tennis Resort owner Dr. Murray “Murf” Klauber called a federal bankruptcy appeals court judge’s reversal rulings “nothing short of a miracle” and says he’s been vindicated after eight years of fighting with unit owners.

Colony Beach & Tennis Resort Association President Jay Yablon downplayed what he called “non-final rulings,” and wrote in an email to unit owners that the Association is already working to renovate the resort.

The differences of opinion don’t end there.

Klauber believes the rulings should allow Tampa-based U.S. District Judge Steven D. Merryday to reinstate the Partnership agreement between him and the unit owners and allow a recreation lease between the unit owners and several lessors to be reinstated.

“This should be the ruling that fuels my rights to move ahead,” Klauber said.

Klauber’s longtime Sarasota attorney, Charles Bartlett, agrees with his client’s assessment.

“The judge could very well direct the bankruptcy court to pull the partnership out of Chapter 7 liquidation and convert it back to a Chapter 11 bankruptcy to allow it to reorganize and continue as an organizing entity,” Bartlett said. “The (rulings mean the) Partnership is now in position to float a (renovation) plan or have its bankruptcy dismissed entirely.”

Yablon and Association attorney Jeffery Warren disagree with those assessments.

LBK -called 2010 the - Icomments by the opWarren posing side “a lot of spin-doctoring.”

“Until Merryday determines what he

thinks he should do, it’s premature for anyone to be talking about much of anything,” Warren said.

Warren said Merryday cannot change a previous order that dissolved the Partnership and allowed the unit owners to have complete control of their units. Warren also said the recreation lease cannot be reinstated.

“There’s no legal authority Judge Merryday has that can reverse the ejectment of the partnership,” Warren said. “The only thing we are talking about here is the possibility of damages.”

The only thing the two sides agree upon is that the reversal rulings have opened the door for Klauber and lessors of a recreation lease to seek damages for the Association’s failure to assess its unit owners to pay for the upkeep of the resort’s grounds.

Warren said his client would appeal any judgment request for damages being issued by the 11th Circuit United States Court of Appeals.

The judge’s decision also allows the Association to move forward with counter claims seeking damages from Klauber.

The Association alleges it doesn’t owe the Partnership any money, because Klauber mismanaged the resort over the years and funneled Association funds into his onsite resort businesses.

What happens next, however, all depends on what the judge decides at an Aug. 11 hearing.

Merryday could direct the Association to begin immediately assessing its members again, with the money being used to pay for a damages amount he selects or for a future renovation project.

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A federal bankruptcy judge’s reversal ruling means that lessors of a Colony Beach & Tennis Resort recreational lease that was previously rejected are now able to seek damages, because 65 years of the lease still remained.

Although the lease itself has not been reinstated, bankruptcy law permits the lessors to recover up to three years of revenue for the lease.

The lease, which collected $650,000 a year from unit owners, would allow lessors to collect approximately $2 million to be split among the current leaseholders.

The current lessors for the recreation lease, which previously allowed the unit owners to use the tennis courts when the resort was operating, include Andy Adams, Colony Lender LLC and Dr. Murray “Murf” Klauber.

Klauber’s 80% interest in the recreation property, however, is part of collateral for $10 million overdue bank loans that are owned by Colony Lender LLC principals David Siegal and Randy Langley.

Morgan Bentley, attorney for Carolyn Field, told the Longboat Observer that the 15% interest his client sold to Colony Lender had a contingency clause that allowed Field to sell her interest but retain her rights to pursue any potential damages from the recreation lease.

“If you are going to give the court the power to terminate the valid lease, it’s only fair to pay rejection damages,” Bentley said.

“We are very happy with the judge’s decision.”

But other parties are unclear whether the lease should be reinstated.

“I think they (unit owners) should be paying for the recreation lease still,” Klauber said. “Without the legal use of that property, all they have is condominiums.”

All parties are looking for more direction from U.S. District Judge Steven Merryday at an Aug. 11 hearing and at a future mediation session.

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Merryday might also hold off on setting a monetary judgment for damages until both parties hold another mediation session.

The mediation session could involve a potential buyout of Klauber or a willingness to move forward with a renovation project that involves the longtime owner and the property on which Colony Lender LLC currently has a lien.

“Reasonable resolutions require reasonable, rational requests and discussions by all parties,” Warren said. “That hasn’t been the case in four past mediation sessions.”

Warren also notes that any judgments paid to the Partnership, he believes, will be used to pay off Klauber’s unpaid creditors.

If the Association does appeal Merryday’s rulings and judgment orders, a three-judge panel will issue a ruling that can only be appealed if the U.S. Supreme Court decides to take the appeal case.

“Eventually, if there is no agreement among parties, the court will make a final decision,” Warren said.

David Siegal, of Colony Lender, meanwhile, hopes it doesn’t come to that.

“I am hopeful this (mediation) will help the parties to resolve matters, because it’s in their best interest to get this now grossly underutilized asset constructive again,” Siegal said. “Nobody benefits from more litigation.”

Colony unit owner Gregory Rusovisch agreed.

“We need to find a mediated solution quick, so I can sit in a nice unit and watch my kids playing on the beach again,” Rusovich said. “I just want the Colony back.”

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Observer opinion | our view LONGBOAT

Smackdown. Vindication.

“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

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Whoa. That was a big-time smackdown.

Reading and interpreting the rulings of federal judges in complex civil suits is often a scramblegram of Latin legalese, so much so that you … well … you need a law professor to translate what the judge is saying.

But in the two federal lawsuits of the Colony Beach & Tennis Club Association Inc., Colony Beach & Tennis Club Ltd, Resorts Management Inc and Colony Beach & Tennis Club Inc. versus Colony Beach & Tennis Club Association Inc., there is absolutely no equivocation.

U.S. District Court Judge Steven Merryday, the same judge who awarded Dr. Murray “Murf” Klauber $9 million from the taxpayers of Longboat Key in the mid-1990s, said, as we read his rulings, that U.S. Bankruptcy Judge K. Rodney May was wrong — wrong all the way around in his rulings last year.

If you cut to the quick, Merryday’s rulings said the Colony’s incorporating documents gave the Colony Beach & Tennis Club Inc. (the company Klauber operated) the authority to require the Colony’s unit owners to pay for repairs and maintenance to the Colony’s common elements.

Merryday further ruled that Klauber and his two partners’ 99-year recreation lease, which gave them the right to charge unit owners for use of the Colony’s tennis courts, swimming pool and other amenities, was indeed valid as well.

These two rulings were the opposite of what the unit owners’ board argued and what the bankruptcy judge ruled.

Put another way, by taking the position that it did, the unit owners’ board was legally wrong and now sits in the position of being primarily responsible for what exists today — a shuttered, dilapidated, fast deteriorating resort that was once one of the crown jewels of Longboat Key and Greater Sarasota.

Read through Judge Merryday’s rulings (see YourObserver.com, Longboat Key tab), and you will see 30 specific instances in which he wrote that Judge May erred. And his language in many of those instances was brutally explicit and expressing his incredulousness at May’s lack of reasoning and judgment. See some of the examples we cited in the accompanying box. It’s not often you read one judge use such critical words of another judge as “startles,” “inexplicably,” “fundamentally flawed,” “utterly foreign” and “slightly bizarre.”

Altogether, it’s a message that will likely raise concerns about potential damages among the Colony unit owners. Indeed, at one point in his ruling, Merryday implied that all Colony unit owners should have known what they were getting into. “Someone interested in becoming a unit owner in the Colony enjoyed full disclosure — guaranteed

by Florida’s condominium laws — of the governing documents. A buyer saw exactly what a buyer would get.”

Vindication of Klauber

Of particular note in Merryday’s rulings to Longboat Key residents who have followed the Colony’s saga should be the judge’s comments about Klauber’s alleged mismanagement and fiscal malfeasance.

Wrote Merryday: “Another assumption floating ominously yet indeterminately in

the background of the bankruptcy court’s decision is that the Association deserves release from the obligation to pay for repairs because the governing documents are unfair.”

But “the portrayal of the unit owners as trapped in an onerous agreement is unfounded,” he wrote. “… [U]nrebutted evidence shows that between 1987 and 2008 the Partnership contributed over $27 million of hotel revenue toward repair of the common elements and nearly $5 million toward the real estate taxes of the units. (Ex. 38) Overall, from 1987 to 2008 the unit owners received $33.76 million in distributions. Over the same period, the general partner [Klauber] received $4.59 million. (Ex. 38) “For decades, a unit owner effectively received a free 30-day stay at a beachfront condominium each year plus the appreciation in value of the initial investment in the Colony … About this component of the arrangement — the value of the Colony to the unit owners throughout past decades — the bankruptcy court said not a word.”

Merryday went on to say the unit owners, even when the Colony hotel operations began to lose money in 2006 and 2007, “continued each year to enjoy 30 days use of a unit at the Colony (plus the appertinent benefits) for dramatically less than cost … “[T]he general partner managed the hotel and received a few hundred thousand dollars while each unit owner contributed nothing and received heavily subsidized use of a beachfront condominium … ” Concluded Merryday: “Given the historical value figures and the fact that the revenue for maintaining the Colony for decades came entirely from the effort of the Partnership, where is the unfairness?”

What’s next

What happens next has grown more complicated. All involved know this: • Judge Merryday has set an Aug. 11 hearing date to hear both sides’ suggested remedies and likely order them into mediation.

• The association board, in the wake of Merryday’s rulings, has been weighing whether to appeal.

• The association board says it is proceeding with plans to select this month finalists to redevelop the Colony.

• Klauber’s side is sorting whether to sue the association for damages. If you are a Colony unit owner, the prospect of this may be unnerving. Klauber has grounds to argue the board’s refusal to pay for maintenance and repairs led directly to his mortgage defaults, lost income and pain and suffering.

Just when it began to look as if the options for Klauber were a Longboat Key sunset sinking into the Gulf, there’s new light. He has new hope and, it would appear, new leverage.

Longboaters are well aware of the animus that exists between Klauber and the association board. And at this point, no one knows if everyone involved can possibly work together for a mutually beneficial outcome.

Asked Monday about the notion of seeking damages, Klauber dismissed the topic: “I want to get the Colony back to its original form. I want this for the island.”

Next week: The man to resurrect the Colony.

THE CASTAWAY by Jorge Blanco

THE MERRYDAY SMACKDOWNS Here are excerpts of Judge Steven Merryday’s rebukes of the bankruptcy court (italics added): • “… The bankruptcy court erroneously (and inexplicably) declared that, with the 1984 Agreement and the Tenth Amendment, ‘[t]he Partnership became directly responsible for payment of all … expenses related to the common elements.”

• “The Association and the bankruptcy judge overlook the conspicuous and inescapable ‘solely to the extent cash is available’ qualification that dramatically controls the meaning of the 1984 Agreement.”

• “The bankruptcy court’s interpretation of the 1984 Agreement is therefore fundamentally flawed and untenable.”

Judge Merryday wrote: “The Declaration manifestly commands that ‘maintenance and operation of the common elements … shall be the responsibility of the Association as a common expense.’

Nothing presented to the bankruptcy court overcomes this plain and obvious mandate.”

• On page 16 of his ruling, Merryday rebukes Judge May for claiming the Colony’s founding documents provide no specific obligations or standards to the unit owners. Merryday quotes from Webster’s dictionary four times to point out what it means to keep the facilities “in a state of repair or efficiency: care, upkeep.” Merryday said the language in the documents is “unambiguous.”

“The bankruptcy court’s conclusion is utterly foreign …”

• On whether an assessment for the maintenance and repair of the Colony must be put to a vote of the unit owners, Merryday wrote: “This conclusion is wholly erroneous and unsupportable.”

“Without support in law or logic” …

“This reasoning, like the conclusion that the unit owners may vote to rescind a binding obligation, is untenable.”

“In sum, each matter the bankruptcy court found important was a mischievous distraction because Florida law requires the Association to pay for maintenance of the common elements.”

• On the matter of whether Klauber has rights to seek damages, Merryday wrote: “The bankruptcy court rejected the Partnership’s claim for damages on many grounds, each of which is flawed.” … “The bankruptcy court’s rejection of damages due to ‘the Hotel’s history of being unprofitable’ was clear error.”

• “As for the assumption that the Association could obtain a loan, the bankruptcy court’s faulting the Partnership for assuming the Association could pay for repair of the common elements is slightly bizarre.”

• In the suit over the recreation lease, Judge Merryday wrote: “ … the bankruptcy judge ignored without explanation pertinent facts and relied on no evidence reliably and lawfully … ”

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

+ I did not move here to live with other people’s pets Dear Editor: Dogs and people’s pets seem to be in the news lately, and I, as an owner at Windward Bay, would like to state my view. We went from a pet-free environment to petfriendly, on the vote of seven people. Onehundred fifty-one units went to pet-friendly, and our home became less friendly for us. The majority of owners heard about it after the fact. We bought, and many of our friends here bought, because of the no-pet rule. Some members of the ad-hoc rules committee were not allowed to speak at the board meeting and most people just accepted that it had already happened.

My wife and I grew up with dogs in the family and other pets also. Our kids have or had pets and the grandkids do. Now in our life, I, for one, do not want to live with other people’s pets. In the seven years we have been here in a pet-free complex, I have, when running, stepped in dog dropping twice. We did not buy on the south end of the island because the units we preferred had dogs. The elevators smelled, and the Realtor said, “Oh, somebody’s pet had a little accident.” Five million people every year are bit by dogs that don’t bite; my wife has been bit twice by someone else’s dog that “doesn’t bite.”

The minorities in our country are vocal and get what they want because the majority is silent. The majority of people will buy medication for their “pet dander” allergies and scrape their shoes, silently. For me? No dogs! I don’t think that is too much to ask.

Jim Burmeister Longboat Key

Fire destroys unit at Westchester Mark Benjamin came within a few minutes of losing his home.

He was working Thursday night, when a fellow Longboat Key Turtle Watch volunteer, who was on the beach for a turtlenest opening, called him to say that Westchester condominium, where Benjamin lives, was on fire.

Benjamin got home just a few minutes later and found flames still blazing from the first-floor unit where the fire started.

The entire condominium had been evacuated. And although the fire destroyed the unit where it started, major damage didn’t extend to other condominiums.

“It was unbelievable,” Benjamin said.

“Had it taken any longer (for the fire department) to get there, I would probably be without my home.”

According to Longboat Key Fire Rescue Chief Paul Dezzi, firefighters responded to the scene at 8:49 p.m. Thursday, July 28, and they quickly called for backup from Sarasota and Manatee counties.

Cyndi Seamon, Turtle Watch volunteer, said that she saw the flames blazing from the building during the nest opening.

“The smoke was bellowing out of Westchester,” she said.

Firefighters forced entry through the locked front door of the first-floor unit, whose owners were walking the beach when the fire started. In approximately 10 minutes, the fire was under control.

In about 30 minutes, the fire was extinguished.

“If it had been minutes later, it would

+ It’s incorrect to say majority supports Key Club project Dear Editor: Frequent statements by various proponents of the Key Club’s so-called “revitalization” and in particular that by Mr. Welly in the July 21 issue of the Longboat Observer, indicate that the “vast majority” of residents support the Key Club expansion.

This is pure hyperbole! No referendum has been done, so how would he, or anyone else know? The writers must believe that if an unsupported statement is made often enough, people will begin to believe it is true. Are we that stupid?

M. Barry Longboat Key

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Mark and Monique Benjamin Westchester condominium have had another floor,” said Dezzi, who noted that good communication helped the effort.

There were no civilian injuries, however, firefighter Joel Castillo was treated for minor burns to his back.

Dezzi estimated total damages at more than $600,000. The unit where the fire broke out sustained the bulk of damages, while units directly above it in the second through sixth floors sustained smoke damage.

According to Dezzi, the state Fire Marshal’s Office continues to investigate the fire, including its causes. On Wednesday, Longboat Key firefighters will return to the scene for an incident review in which they will review policies, determine if additional training is needed and assess the strengths and weaknesses of the department’s response.

“They were absolute professionals,” Benjamin said of firefighters and police.

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Dear Editor: I think both giving dogs on the beach a trial run and the rebuild of Publix are wonderful ideas. Someone who has lived on Longboat Key for more than 38 years told me that dogs were never allowed on the beach. However, times have changed in regard to furry animals, we are more concerned about using “pooper scoopers” now. I don’t believe we would have issues with that today. Please, let’s try it. Incidentally, I don’t have a dog and never have due to my asthma. But, I do have several friends who do, and they would love the right to use the beach with them.

As for the new store, I am enthused about it. I can adjust to traveling to Manatee Avenue and Gulf Drive, if I have to. However, can’t Publix make some accommodations for us Longboaters to get our groceries during the construction? I will be surprised if Publix doesn’t expect us to ask for that consideration. It’s up to you, dear commissioners!

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

by Robin Hartill | City Editor

Callans management company misses payroll The Longboat Key-based Beth Callans Management will close later this week, employees say.

The sign was posted Friday, July 29 on the doors of Beth Callans Management’s Mediterranean Plaza headquarters.

“There are NO BCMT payroll checks today,” it read.

Approximately six weeks earlier, the company had canceled direct deposit and notified that live checks for the payroll cycle — which had previously arrived via direct deposit every other Thursday — would arrive Friday morning, instead. Two weeks later, the checks were late. Then, on Friday, July 29, employees learned that they wouldn’t be receiving their paychecks.

By Monday and Tuesday, as rumors about the company’s financial problems swirled among the approximately 80 communities the company managed — roughly half of which were located on Longboat Key — communities began canceling their contracts with the firm. By Tuesday, employees were cleaning out their desks and retrieving files from the communities they managed, according to two employees, one who manages Longboat Key properties and one who manages Sarasota properties, who spoke to the Longboat Observer on the condition of anonymity.

Robyn Nystrom, executive administration manager for the company, said that she could not comment on whether the firm is closing or on payroll issues. Beth Callans, owner of the Longboat Key-based company, could not be reached for comment.

However, both employees told the Longboat Observer that they were told that the office would lock its doors at some point this week.

For many — both employees and those whose properties the company managed — the events marked a dramatic shift from the institution they once knew.

“This lady was the best there was in the business,” said one employee, who manages a Longboat Key condominium.

In a 2010 interview, Beth Callans told the Longboat Observer that she founded her company in 1998 with a single assistant working out of the Northern Trust Building. She worked in property management for 10 years before branching out to form her own company. She said that she spent the early days writing letters to condominium associations to let them know about the new venture before landing her first client, Portobello Condominium Association.

The company grew to nearly 200 employees; revenues in 2009 topped $8.4 million. In 2010, Callans’ company received the Longboat Key, Lido Key, St. Armands Key Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year Award for the “11 or more employees” category.

Reflecting upon her time in the business, Callans said at the time: “It’s been 11 years of building.”

One employee, who manages Sarasota properties, said that the company used to be “a great place to work.”

“Everybody was very serious about the job at hand,” he said.

But in recent years, problems began to surface.

“I started watching for what wasn’t being done about a year ago,” the Longboat Key condominium manager said. “For example, we weren’t getting property inspections, which is something I relied on.”

The Sarasota condominium manager said that the company had to bring in an outside contractor to sort out a “major amount of money” that was misplaced.

Then, six weeks ago, payroll issues began to surface.

“The first time (payroll checks bounced), everyone was surprised,” the Sarasota manager said. “The second time, everybody was just mad. Now, people are furious.”

Meanwhile, both condominium managers say that Callans hasn’t been in the office

Beth Callans, president and owner of Beth Callans Management, in 2010. regularly for at least six months.

“When I was first hired, there was nothing she didn’t know about or give an OK for,” the Sarasota manager said.

As word of the company’s issues spread over the past few weeks, many associations began discussing how to move forward with their management.

Bob Simmons, president of the Grand Bay Community Association — which includes all seven Grand Bay associations — said that the association decided Saturday to cancel its contract with Beth Callans Management.

“We can confirm that we did terminate our relationship,” Simmons said.

The community will hire Rampart Properties to take over management.

Colony Beach & Tennis Resort Association President Jay Yablon said that he learned of developing issues within the company approximately three weeks ago.

“We’ve taken precautions in the past several weeks based on information that this sort of thing could be happening,” he said.

“We didn’t publish anything to our owners because we believed if there was a problem, it would come out independently,

File photo

and, out of respect for Callans, we should not be publishing their problems.”

Bill Levine, president of the Bay Isles Association Master Association, said Monday that, although he had met with company officials, a resolution hadn’t been reached.

The Longboat Key condominium manager who spoke to the Longboat Observer said that his community canceled his contract with the company Monday and that he and the condominium’s other employees would be hired by the condominium.

The Sarasota condominium manager said that many properties are making arrangements for employees to continue working at their communities. Additionally, some have made arrangements to give employees their paychecks — even though that means essentially paying a second time for expenses for which they were already billed.

Despite recent turmoil, at least one employee had good things to say about Callans.

“I have the greatest respect in the world for the lady,” he said. “She was very intelligent, and she was great with her employees.”

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YourObserver.com

by Kurt Schultheis | Sarasota City Editor

FOOD FIGHT Is there a restaurant battle brewing between Patrick’s Restaurant and Tavern and Patty’s on Main?

There are now two similar American restaurants a stone’s throw away from each other, with similar names and even menus that list identical items.

One is Patrick’s Restaurant and Tavern, a downtown Sarasota staple for American cuisine and award-winning burgers for the past 25 years. And where Patrick’s used to sit at 1400 Main St. is Patty’s on Main, a new restaurant with a similar name that opened July 11.

Patrick’s owner Jim Sullivan told the Sarasota Observer he believes his restaurant, which he moved from Kress International Plaza to a new location at 1481 Main St., is being mimicked by his former landlord.

“You could say things didn’t end on a good note and were never on a good note during the 19 years we had to work with him,” Sullivan said.

Sullivan is referring to his former landlord, Kress International Plaza owner Harry Walia.

“We were told for the last five years he wouldn’t renew our lease,” Sullivan said.

“To be honest, I counted down the days and couldn’t wait to get away from that old building.”

Sullivan said Walia never made repairs; he also said his rent was too high at the former location. Now, Sullivan says his restaurant revenues are up 20%, and his rent decreased $10,000 per month since he opened his new location May 7.

“He (Walia) did me a huge favor by showing me the door,” Sullivan said. “I couldn’t be happier now.”

Walia, however, paints a different picture and calls the similarities in the two restaurant’s names “purely coincidental.”

“It has nothing to do with anything,” Walia said.

But Walia is quick to point out he wasn’t happy with how his relationship ended with Sullivan or how it progressed while he was Sullivan’s landlord.

As Sullivan’s 25-year lease expired, Walia said he gave Sullivan three options to stay.

“He chose none of those options and made it impossible to hire a new tenant because he was badmouthing me as a landlord,” Walia said.

The relationship between the owner of Patrick’s Restaurant and Tavern and his landlord soured, which prompted a move down the street earlier this year.

SECOND HELPING?

Photos by Rachel S. O’Hara

Patrick’s Restaurant and Tavern owner Jim Sullivan believes his former landlord is mimicking his restaurant.

Patty’s on Main General Manager Patty Ridings said the restaurant is named after her and is not intended to mimic Patrick’s Restaurant.

Sullivan said he was offered no options.

“That’s a complete and utter lie,” Sullivan said.

Walia explained that he approached Patrick’s general manager, Patty Ridings, about running his new restaurant venture after Patrick’s decided not to retain her.

But Sullivan says Walia stole Ridings away from his restaurant.

Ridings, who was an employee at Patrick’s for three months before the restaurant moved, said the name “Patty’s on Main” was created on a whim during a restaurant conceptualization meeting in April.

“I always wanted to have a restaurant named after me, and everyone liked the name,” Ridings said.

Ridings, meanwhile, told the Sarasota Observer the creation of Patty’s wasn’t easy.

Ridings said that once they received the keys to the restaurant space, they discovered all the electrical wiring had been cut or exposed from the walls, phone lines were severed, computer wires were destroyed, and drains were plugged up with trash and utensils.

“They even tore off the wooden wall hutches and the entire bar,” Ridings said. “We were absolutely shocked.”

Sullivan confirms he took the bar’s wooden hutches and the entire kitchen, even though he didn’t install them in his current location.

“I helped build that bar with my own two hands,” Sullivan said. “It was all mine.”

Walia and Ridings said a local carpenter found the bar in his dumpster.

When asked about the severed wires, Sullivan said he and his employees had nothing to do with it.

“But even if I did, I installed them and they were mine, too,” Sullivan said.

Walia called Sullivan’s departure “disappointing.”

“There was nothing but vindictiveness and anger in their departure,” Walia said.

Sullivan, meanwhile, said his restaurant is booming, and he believes Patty’s is failing.

“This is a very small town,” Sullivan said.

“People aren’t fooled by what he did. He has no business, and it makes me laugh.”

Ridings, however, said she is pleased with Patty’s business so far.

Despite the bad blood, Ridings, Walia and Sullivan say they can let the past go.

“We tell people looking for Patrick’s where their new location is,” Ridings said. “At the end of the day, it’s our responsibility to be as positive as we can about it.”

Sullivan said he’s moving ahead as well.

“I just signed a 25-year lease at my current location and am positive my restaurant will be here for many more years,” Sullivan said. “I can’t say the same about Patty’s.”

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There might also be an across-the-street pizza competition brewing on Main Street.

When Kress International Plaza owner Harry Walia ceased his relationship with Patrick’s Restaurant and Tavern, the lease also expired on Pattellini’s N.Y.-style Pizzeria, which moved directly across the street to 1429 Main St. So what is Walia putting in its place?

A new deli/pizzeria called Five Points Deli and N.Y. Style Pizzeria is set to open in a month at 1410 Main St. and will be run by Patty’s on Main Restaurant General Manager Patty Ridings.

Ridings and Walia said the replacement of a New York-style pizzeria with a New York-style pizzeria is coincidental and said the addition of the deli concept is something new for the area.

Pattellini’s management and owner declined to comment.

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

strong signal

TOWN BUDGET

by Robin Hartill | City Editor

11A

by Kurt Schultheis | City Editor

Millage rate stays flat Plan seeks to open lines of communication The town ’s recommended budget for fiscal year 2011-12 keeps the millage rate flat and includes a $52,400 budget surplus.

Cell-phone tower plan calls for a 150-foot stealth cellular tower on the 4.5-acre Longboat Island Chapel property.

NORTHERN EXPOSURE The plan addresses recent reports concerning radiofrequency exposure levels, stating: “RF exposure to cell-phone users is reduced by putting a cell tower in your neighborhood because the handsets would operate at significantly lower power. If you have a quarter-watt handset next to your head, it delivers significantly more energy to the user than does the 100-watt RF equipment that is on a cell tower that is a 100 feet away and 100 feet above the ground because of the inverse-square law.”

over trees, and each cellular-service band is 10 feet. Although the renderings in the plan feature a white tower, the structure will actually be a grayish color that will blend in with the background. According to the application, the tower’s location “has been chosen to take maximum advantage of very dense and tall foliage on the site in order to minimize the impact of the (Stealth Personal Wireless Service Facility)” and will also add a landscaped buffer.

None of Eatrides and Barile’s three applications has been formally accepted because additional information was needed.

One hurdle for the plan has been the wording of the cellular-tower ordinance, which requires that a tower be placed on an institutionally zoned property — a zoning that only the chapel and the Longboat Key Public Works Department have on the north end. Additionally, town code requires a tower to have a setback that is two times the height of the tower, or 200 feet, whichever is greater. The application requests relief from the setback issue.

Eatrides hopes the plan will have a public hearing at the Sept. 20 P&Z meeting. He also hopes to hold a public meeting at the chapel before that meeting.

Visit our website to see a rendering of Eatrides’ and Barile’s cell-tower plan. www.YourObserver.com

Town Savings • The town may also save an additional $28,000 in March election costs because it can piggyback off county elections that will be held about the same time.

• Recent contract negotiation sessions with the Police and Fire Rescue unions have allowed the town to eliminate a 401(k) match for pension plan members who have a cost-of-living allowance, reducing the general fund by $63,000.

• The budget also discontinues the funding of long-term disability insurance for all employees for a $39,000 savings. fices, but only because the millage rate on those notices is calculated at the higher maximum millage rate the commission doesn’t intend to approve.

The recommended budget assumes the commission will approve a 5% increase in the town’s business tax receipt program the following year, which will increase town revenues by approximately $8,000.

The commission identified $265,000 in expenditure reductions at its July 13 budget workshop, and St. Denis and his staff reduced expenditures by an additional $20,000.

The budget will be discussed on first reading and public hearing at the commission’s 7 p.m. regular meeting Monday, Sept. 12. A budget workshop could be scheduled for that morning to discuss the budget.

The budget will be adopted on second reading at a special meeting at 5:01 p.m. Monday, Sept. 26.

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“I never have service in my name, which could potentially be dangerous in a life-threatening situation.”

“I must go out to my street until I find a signal and then not move during the conversation.”

“Cell-phone service is a must for business and personal use in this day and age.”

Those are just three of the comments included among the 639 applications signed in favor of a cell-phone tower on Longboat Key. Longboat Key resident and Alpha-Omega Communications Inc. owner Jim Eatrides, who distributed the survey and who has worked for more than a decade to bring a cellular tower to the north end of Longboat Key, said he understands their pain: He gets a cell-phone signal of -114 dBm on a typical day at his Whitney Beach office. A call needs a signal of -100dBm or more to have a clear signal, Eatrides said, so the result is frequently missed or dropped calls. But Eatrides hopes that lines of communications on the north end of the island will open soon. He and his business partner, Kevin Barile, president of the Tampa-based Ridan Industries II, submitted three separate applications to bring a cellular tower to the north end of Longboat Key for formal review Monday, Aug. 1 to the Planning, Zoning and Building Department.

The plan calls for building a 150-foot, stealth cellular tower on a 4.5-acre portion of Longboat Island Chapel property.

“One of the things we need is reliable phone and mobile service in order to have a good quality of life on the island,” said Eatrides, who noted that in 2009, 66% of all Manatee County 911 calls, along with 62% of those in Sarasota County, were made via wireless phone. “What we have on the north end of the island is substandard, frustrating and potentially hazardous in emergency situations.”

The south end of the island is home to antennae — located at the Privateer and Islands West — that can boost reception. But, unlike the south end, the north end isn’t home to multi-story buildings that could hold an antenna high enough to get a signal.

According to Eatrides, the 150-foot height is necessary to support six cellular towers. The tower needs at least 90 feet to transmit signals

Town Manager Bruce St. Denis has heeded the Longboat Key Town Commission’s warning by presenting a 2011-12 recommended budget that keeps the town’s millage rate at its current rate of 1.8872 mills.

It’s the first time in four years St. Denis hasn’t recommended a millage increase to balance the budget.

Instead, this year’s budget, which begins Oct. 1, includes a $52,400 surplus that allows commissioners to consider adding back in contributions to organizations such as the Sarasota County Economic Development Corporation and Solutions to Avoid Red Tide (START).

The budget reduces fiscal year 2011-12 general-fund operating expenditures by $381,000, or 2.68%, compared to fiscal year 2010-11.

In his budget memo dated Aug. 1, St. Denis explained the budget was based on a 4.23% reduction in property values and a $375,000 reduction in ad valorem tax revenue, because the town is keeping the millage rate the same as last year.

If the commission approves the budget next month, property owners with a homestead exemption who have a lower 2011 assessed value than the previous year will see a 1.5% increase in their taxes.

For a homeowner with a $500,000 home, that tax increase would be $14.15.

For those homesteaded properties for which the 2011 assessed value is lower than the 2010 assessed value, taxes will decrease, because the town did not impose a higher millage rate. For a homeowner with a $500,000 home, the tax decrease would be approximately $38.

These tax-rate amount scenarios are different than what property owners are receiving in the mail from the property appraisers’ of-

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4:10 p.m. — 500 block of Bay Isles Parkway. Lost Property. A man reported his wallet missing and told police he last saw it in an island grocery store. He retraced his steps but was unable to find it.

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Clothes call 6:27 a.m. — 300 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive. Property Found. A pair of shorts, a polo shirt and a brown belt were found on a bench.

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4:29 p.m. — 600 block of Cedar Street.

Larceny from Private Property. The manager of a pro shop reported that a kayak was taken from the property between June 10 and July 25.

5:25 p.m. — 3200 block of Bayou Sound. Code Enforcement. After receiving an anonymous complaint, police issued a written warning to a landscaper about using a chainsaw between the hours of 5 p.m. and 8 a.m. The man agreed to comply with the town’s code, which prohibits use of noise-emitting yard machinery after hours.

in the Centre Shops

12:03 a.m. 6800 block of Pine Street.

Report of some people yelling “help.”

Subjects playing video games in home.

Got excited. Complainant happy everyone OK.

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4:11 p.m. — 5600 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive. Property Found. The manager of a landscape-and-maintenance company told police that his crews found a blue leather purse containing a Kentucky driver’s license, checkbook and other personal items. The purse was stolen during a vehicle burglary four days earlier on Bradenton Beach. Bradenton Beach police notified the owner that her property was found.

Sounds like a code-enforcement violation

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

8:06 a.m. — 6400 block of Gulfside Road. Suspicious Person. Police awoke a man and sent him on his way after they found him sleeping in the bushes. The man, described as “well-known to police,” then sat on the bus-stop bench and said he was getting on the bus to leave the area.

WHO?

Bradenton • 3130 63rd Ave. East

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

13A

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Bird Key $1,675,000 Laura Pearson, 941-388-3966 Bird Key 2 Story, Islander Club Of Longboat $475,000 Kathy Hoonhout, 941-388-3966 Wel5BR/5+BA canal front home. 3 car gar, generous floorplan. SHF#A3934755 coming 2BR/2BA waterfront condo. Community swimming pool and tennis.

Tower Residences $1,495,000 Judy Kepecz-Hays, 941-924-9000 Bay, SHF#A3939829 Marina & SRQ views. 3BR+den w/ 24hr Ritz concierge. 2 pets welcome.

Fairway Bay $465,000 Bruce Myer, 941-924-9000 Bright, furnished SHF#A3945786 2bed/2bath, 1 parking space w/gorgeous views of the bay. SHF#A3946075 Lido Regency $625,000 Tracy Eisnaugle, 941-388-3966 Beautiful 2BR/2BA Club Longboat $445,000 Bruce Myer, 941-924-9000 3BR/2BA home w/ waterfront condo. Elevators. Community swimming pool. SHF#A3934083 views of beautiful gulf waters & access to sandy beaches. SHF#A3922117 Lido Beach Club $497,000 Bruce Myer, 941-924-9000 Bright, turnkey 2bd/2ba Lido Beach Club condo, walk to St. Armandís Circle. SHF#A3945206 Casa Del Mar $439,000 Monica Roche, 941-924-9000 2BD/2BA 2nd fl; partial gulf & pool view condo. Perfect vacation spot! SHF#A3930055 Lido Surf & Sand $469,000 Lynn A. Luken, 941-388-3966 Beach front 2/2 7th floor condo. Fabulous water views, turnkey furnished. SHF#A3945261 Seaplace II $429,000 Sandy Endres, 941-924-9000 Great opportunity to own Lido Beach $439,000 Patrick DiPinto, 941-924-9000 Secure a happy future 3BR/2BA condo in a gated community. SHF#A3943560 with this wheelchair-accessible 2BR/3BA home. SHF#A3945761

Seaplace $379,500 Sandy Endres, 941-924-9000 Don’t miss this bright & Lido Harbour South $399,500 Lynn A. Luken, 941-388-3966 Enjoy Gulf Views lovely furnished, remodeled, large 2BR/2BA condo. SHF#A3942130 and gorgeous sunsets from this delightful 2BR/2BA condo. SHF#A3939763 Bay Harbour $334,900 Patrick DiPinto, 941-924-9000 Beautifully remodeled Lido Harbour South $386,000 Angie Campbell, 941-924-9000 Enjoy a hap- 2BR/2BA penthouse. Southern exposure and bay views. SHF#A3939247 py haven in this very special waterfront condo. 2 BR/2 baths. SHF#A3945580 Seaplace $319,000 Roger Pettingell, 941-924-9000 This 2BR/2BA is just Lido Harbour Towers $349,000 Inger Lill, 941-388-3966 Charming 2BR/BA steps from the beach. Amenity rich, secure community. SHF#A3944993 condo, located directly on the beach. Turnkey furnished. SHF#A3927085 Cedars East Condo $309,000 Team Vitale, 941-388-3966 Make a great Lido Harbour Towers $315,000 Angie Campbell, 941-924-9000 Explore the move to this 2BR/2+BA condo. Exercise rooms, rec facilities. SHF#A3946217 many virtues of this comfortable condo. Elevators. Garage. SHF#A3945578 Cedars East Condo $299,000 Team Vitale, 941-388-3966 End your search with this hospitable 2BR/2+BA condo. Community tennis. SHF#A3911844 Longboat Key Queens Harbour $2,199,000 Martina Coppenrath, 941-924-9000 4BR/5+BA Seaplace $299,000 Lynne Koy, 941-924-9000 Enjoy tranquil garden views wtrfront home w/views of the bay. Many custom details throughout. from this 2BR/2BA in a gated, gulf front comm. SHF#A3946018 SHF#A3934524 First Longboat Harbour $269,000 Taube Levitt, 941-388-3966 FabuSabal Cove $1,898,000 Judy Kepecz-Hays, 941-924-9000 Showcase 4BR lous water views from this 2/2 condo. Newly updated. Turnkey Furnished. home being built to highest standards. Lake/golf views. SHF#A3933234 SHF#A3913064 Longboat Key $1,495,000 Carolyn Donnelly, 941-924-9000 Adorable 3BR direct beachfront vacation home w/gulf & sunset views. SHF#A3943744

Mainland Sarasota

River Club South $379,000 Michael/Mary Nell Moore, 941-924-9000 3BR/3BA/3-garage, oversized lot w/pool, granite counters. Recently updated.

SHF#A3944032 University Place $299,500 Michael/Mary Nell Moore, 941-924-9000 Inviting 3BR/2BA residence in a gated community. Community swimming pool.

SHF#A3946199 Wildewood Springs $79,900 Jonas Forslund, 941-924-9000 Enhance your life with this cheerful 2BR/2BA condo. Central heat/air. SHF#A3944370

Siesta Key Siesta Key $849,900 Barbara Ackerman, 941-924-9000 Beautifully updtd 2600sf wtrfrnt home, deep wtr canal, docks & lift. SHF#A3942986 Siestas Bayside $725,000 Kathy Hoonhout, 941-388-3966 Canal front 3/2.

Completely remodeled. Close to beach and village. Short SL SHF#A3937943 Midnight Sea $350,000 Janet Dugan, 941-388-3966 Outstanding Siesta Key location 3BR/2BA condo. Near the world famous beach SHF#A3927761 Siesta Harbor II $299,000 Nikki Boguszewski, 941-388-3966 Bright canal front condo turnkey furnished w/many antiques, bay views. SHF#A3944665 Siesta Hrbor II $270,000 Nikki Boguszewski, 941-388-3966 Irresistible value & price! 2/2 condo on waterfront site. Dock, elevators. SHF#A3945887

St. Armand’s Key Lido Beach $1,399,000 Patrick DiPinto, 941-924-9000 Location! Estate size waterfront double lot. Dock and lift. SHF#A3935851 Kingston Arms $324,000 Peter Brennan, 941-388-3966 Stucco condo star.

Find joy in the warm ambiance of this delightful unit. SHF#A3938669

Venice/Osprey/Nokomis

Bay Isles Harbor $1,395,000 Roger Pettingell, 941-924-9000 South facing, Sarasota $2,595,000 Gabe/Charles Buky, 941-924-9000 Let your dreams Oaks $460,000 Monica Roche, 941-924-9000 Tile-roofed 3BR/2+BA resilong water views. 3BR/4+ Bath. SHF#A3946437 lead the way&make this 10,127 sqft piece of paradise yours! SHF#A3934844 dence in a gated community. Ceiling fans. SHF#A3946198

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

*REAL Trends ranked Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate number one in sales volume in Orlando, Tampa/St. Petersburg, Miami/ Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach. Data obtained by Real Trends 500 Survey, May 2011. ©2011 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned And Operated By NRT LLC.

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FLORIDAMOVES.COM

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OUR TOWN

Why We Should Be Your Florida Vacation Connection

a

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

Since 1994

• 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

The Most. Rev. David Zubik, bishop of the Diocese of Pittsburgh, has been spending one-week vacations on Longboat Key for years — 15, to be exact. During his visits, he leads Masses at St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church. But that’s not to say that he doesn’t experience Key life while he’s here. He and his family — his sister and her children — enjoy eating out, shopping and “being beach bums” when they’re not at Mass.

This year, they switched up their routine.

“We tried a new restaurant every day we were here,” Zubik said. “It was really nice to try some new things this time.” around.”

Back By Popular Demand …

the Haye Loft Summer Prix Fixe Menu for $35 And, And, choice choice of of appetizer appetizer and dessert. and dessert.

Amanda Sebastiano

Sorry no substitutions. Tax and gratuity not included.

Lady tennis players at the Longboat Key Club joined Makeup Free Mondays, a movement standing for much more than leaving off the eye shadow. The idea to focus on the inner beauty of women through a foundationfree face was created by Alexis Wolfer, in response to the focus many beauty magazines place on unrealistic body ideals, Wolfer wrote on her website, www.thebeautybean.com.

Wolfer currently lives in Manhattan, N.Y., however, she recently recruited her mother, Longboater Carol Wolfer, and her mother’s tennis friends for her latest portrait. The ladies, tennis rackets in hand, smiled for the camera with makeup-free mugs.

On Monday’s episode of “Hell’s Kitchen,” Chef Jamie Gregorich, sous chef at Euphemia Haye, proved she can stand the heat in the kitchen — by surviving another elimination. She lost with her salmon dish in the head-to-head round between the Red Team and the Blue Team, but she showed her trademark cool demeanor during dinner service. “Hell’s Kitchen” aired again Tuesday night. Visit www.YourObserver.com for an update on the latest episode.

MUSSELS • LOBSTER • ANTIPASTO

what you are missing...

+ Tennis club ladies ditch their makeup for the day

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

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

IA L A IT 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

MUSSELS • LOBSTER • ANTIPASTO

Observe

Photo courtesy of Mary Lou Johnson

+ Chef Jamie stands the heat in ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ 61239

• Roasted Duckling • Gamberetti e Capellini • Grecian Lamb Shank • Chicken Florentine • Eggplant Parmesan

>> Continued from Page 1A

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

+ Bishop heads home … until next year

36838 60177

cipals e, Prin s e 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 c a t i o n c o n n

longboat Observer

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We cover the news

THAT MATTERS TO YOU!

Live from the Sarasota Farmers Market...

The

Fatum Brothers Jazz Orchestra from

New York City!

Fatum Brothers’ Jazz Orchestra Also performing Jake Pinto Trio Saturday, August 6 9am–12pm FREE Admission “You guys are really inspiring to me. You go out and make things happen. When The

LOCAL NEWS! YourObserver.com You. Your Neighbors. Your Neighborhood.

Come enjoy the SPIRIT of the downtown Farmers’ market,

people ask if big bands are viable I mention your band as anaward example of howartisans, a big featuring fresh produce, local plants, winning band can thrive. Keepunique it up!” breakfast and lunch items and much more.

Lemon Avenue & Main Street - Bob Mintzer (Grammy Award Winning Saxophonist, Composer, and Director of the Bob Mintzer Big Band).

7 am - 12 pm every Saturday

For More Information email manager@sarasotafarmersmarket.org or call 941-225-9256 “Chicago’s newest musical offspring - hip young jazz group the Fatum Brothers’ Jazz Orchestra is bringing Big Bands back!”

60943

Local News that’s

longboat Observer

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

NOONTIME NETWORKING

15A

by Rachel S. O’Hara | Staff Photographer

LLSA Chamber does business over lunch

Danica McLaren, Nancy Taussig and Sandy Egly

The Longboat Key, Lido Key, St. Armands Chamber of Commerce held a “Networking @ Noon” luncheon Thursday, July 28, at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar. Chamber members chatted with one another before sitting down to lunch and an hour of making new business connections.

Photos by Rachel S. O’Hara

David Swain, Sandee Davis and Brandon Sell

Danny Nix and Jack Dean

Joe Tine talks with Shelia Lewis.

We are pleased to unveil our New Golf Membership. Imagine unlimited use of 45-holes of challenging golf, two driving ranges, six restaurants, beach & poolside facilities, Island House Spa, Fitness Centre and Mind Greg Hayes and Norm Mallard

& Motion Studio. Plus an open invitation to attend Club activities as well as use of Marina Village amenities and some tennis privileges.

Call today for details and to schedule your private tour.

Enjoy the magnificent beachfront setting with pristine white sand & warm Gulf waters.

Play a match at our USTA award-winning Tennis Gardens.

Reenergize mind and body at our 9,000 sf Island House Spa.

Dine at six very distinctive, elegant to casual, onsite rstaurants.

Debbie Allen and Dawn Mims

61790

442 Gulf of Mexico Drive • Longboat Key 941.387.1602 • www.longboatkeyclub.com • membership@longboatkeyclub.com

longboat Observer

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

obituaries

Cancer Support Community Sessions — take place from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Mondays at All Angels by the Sea Episcopal Church, 563 Bay Isles Road. The sessions offer support to cancer patients and their family members and friends. Call 921-5539 or visit cancersupportsuncoast.org.

Longboat Library — is open from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Monday through Saturday.

The library is located at 555 Bay Isles Road. Call 3832011.

The Lord’s Warehouse — is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Saturday. The thrift shop is located 6140 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Call 383-4738.

LOOKING AHEAD Sarasota Bay Watch Scallop Search mask, snorkel and water shoes. Boats are limited to 50, and kayaks are welcome. You can also sign up as a crew member if you do not have a boat. A complimentary lunch will be held at Mar Vista after the scallop search.

Call: 953-5333 or visit www.sarasotabaywatch.org for more information and to sign up.

When: 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 13, at Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub, 760 Broadway St. Info: Participants will be equipped and trained on how to search for scallops in seagrass. Fish and Wildlife Research Institute experts will be present to answer questions. Bring sunscreen, hat, sunglasses,

Loris Birnkrant, 92, of Longboat Key and Birmingham, Mich., died July 30.

Mrs. Birnkrant was born Sept. 17, 1918, in Little Rock, Ark. Her parents were Mable and Sam Grundfest.

Mrs. Birnkrant and her late husband, Ted, were in the vanguard of Michigan residents from the north suburbs of Detroit who discovered Longboat Key in the 1960s and made Birnkrant their winter homes here.

Mrs. Birnkrant was a wellknown volunteer at the Sarasota Music Festival. She would serve the students breakfast, bright and early every morning; she would buy the threeweek pass and missed little in terms of concerts or a master class.

Mrs. Birnkrant loved much about the community, including the Sarasota Opera, Ringling College of Art and Design and the Longboat Key Center for the Arts, a Division of Ringling College of Art and Design.

She loved walking the beach and exploring Marie Selby

File photo

Lori Black looks for scallops on her kayak at last year’s Scallop Search.

All Angels by the Sea Episcopal Church, 563 Bay Isles Road, will hold Sunday worship services at 9 a.m.

The Rev. David Danner is the rector. 383-8161.

Christ Church of Longboat Key, Presbyterian USA, 595 Bay Isles Road, will hold Sunday worship services at 10 a.m. The Rev. Bruce Porter is the pastor. 3838833.

Longboat Island Chapel,

Music Director: Dan Hoffman

Elaine Rutledge Hover

Elaine Rutledge Hover, formerly of Longboat Key, died July 22.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Philip Hover.

She is survived by her daughter, Cynthia Edwards; three grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

A celebration of life was held July 31, at St. Armands Key Lutheran Church, 40 N. Adams Drive.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Armands Key Lutheran Church Foundation.

Catholic Church, 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive, will hold daily Mass at 9 a.m. Monday through Friday, Saturday Mass at 5 p.m. and Sunday Masses at 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. Msgr. Gerard Finegan is the pastor. 383-1255.

Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, will hold Shabbat services at 5:30 p.m. Fridays and 10 a.m. Saturdays.

Jonathan Katz is the rabbi.

383-3428.

The Episcopal Church on Longboat Key

563 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key

383-8161 Website: www.AllAngelsLBK.org

All are welcome. Please join us in worship!

Sunday Service 9:00 a.m.

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

595 Bay Isles Road

Mediterranean Plaza

Publix - CVS

A

Gulf of Mexico Drive

383-8833

www.christchurchoflbk.org

Celebrating 100 years of Service in 2013

941-778-0414

512 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria

www.roserchurch.com

Temple Beth Israel 59897

Confession before all weekend Masses

s!

Share Shabbat and more:

U

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

n

A Center of Jewish Life and Learning in the Sarasota Area

i Jo

Temple Beth Israel

CATHOLIC CHURCH

Msgr. Gerard Finegan, Pastor

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 –Sunday Adult Sunday 10 AM —Adult SchoolSchool & 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

Marguerita Ann “Peggy” Myford Gadoury, 63, of Longboat Key, died July 24.

Born May 4, 1948, she was a former resident of St. Petersburg.

Mrs. Gadoury is survived by her son, Randy Beckham, of Longboat Key; mother, Thelma Crady, of Duette; and sisters Carollee Garvey, of Cape Coral, and Sandra Massengal, of Parrish. A memorial service took place Saturday, July 30.

Roser Community Church

INVITES YOU

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

Marguerita Ann ‘Peggy’ Myford Gadoury

All Angels by the Sea

61277

of Longboat Key • Presbyterian USA

6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, will hold Sunday worship services at 10 a.m. The Rev. Kenneth Gill is the minister.

383-6491.

St. Armands Key Lutheran Church, 40 N. Adams Drive, will hold contemporary Sunday worship services at 9 a.m. and traditional Sunday worship services at 11 a.m.

The Rev. Mark Bernthal is the pastor. 388-1234.

St. Mary, Star of the Sea,

Bay Isles Pkwy.

ChurCh

Festival, c/o Sarasota Orchestra, 709 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Fla., 34236.

WORSHIP SERVICES

WORSHIP DIRECTORY

Chris

Botanical Gardens. She loved art and artists and anything beautiful. She was an intrepid traveler who let little stand in the way of something she wanted to experience and who acquired friends wherever she went. She cooked a mean meatloaf and prepared okra like the Southern girl she was.

She practiced the hospitality for which the South is famous and did much more, all with intelligence, passion, generosity and grace.

Mrs. Birnkrant was preceeded in death by her husband, Theodore D. Birnkrant. She is survived by her sister, Janet Mayersohn, of Little Rock; daughters, Janet Levine and Sally Myers; son, Don; two grandchildren; and six greatgrandchildren.

A service was held Aug. 1 in the Birnkrant Garden at Temple Emanu-El, in Oak Park, Mich. A memorial service will be held on Longboat Key toward the end of the year.

Memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice or to the Birnkrant Great Grandchildren’s Fund for Michigan Outreach of the Stratford Shakespearean Festival (Attn: Kathy Kemp, program administrator) 55 Queen St., Box 520, Stratford, Ontario N5A 6V2 or Sarasota Music

61244

Longboat Key Public Tennis Center summer specials — run from Aug. 8 through Oct. 7, at the Longboat Key Public Tennis Center, 590 Bay Isles Road. The Tennis Center will offer a $119 package of five one-hour tennis classes on tennis basics from 9 to 10 a.m.

Monday through Friday.

Participants will also receive a Wilson tennis racket,

Loris Birnkrant

60186

Tennis Center T-shirt and discounts on private lessons, ball-machine use and user passes for the facility. Call 316-8367.

Scallopalooza: Repay the Bay — takes place at 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6, at Sarasota Yacht Club, 1100 John Ringling Blvd. Enjoy an evening of dinner, drinks, auction and presentations hosted by Sarasota Yacht Club Commodore Jeff Birnbach. The event will benefit Sarasota Bay Watch’s scallop restoration efforts. Cost is $50. To register, visit sarasotabaywatch. org.

Friday Evening, 5:30 pm Saturday Morning, 10:00 am Please visit our Judaica Shop 941-778-0414 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria 941.383.3428 512www.tbi-lbk.org www.roserchurch.com

Community 567 Bay Isles Road Roser • Longboat Key, FLChurch

60184

COMMUNITYCALENDAR

16A

Gary A. Batey, Pastor

A non-denominational, traditional church

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, AUGUST 4, 2011

SERVICES

REAL ESTATE

WEATHER

Find a painter in The Observer Classifieds

Three-bedroom condo at Villa di Lancia sells for $1.3 million.

PAGE 18A.

PAGE 24A.

PAGE 25A.

scenes of the sea

See this week’s weather photo contest winner.

by Rachel S. O’Hara | Staff Photographer

Paula Yellis peers inside Rita Yivornoya’s dip net to see what she found.

Photos by Rachel S. O’Hara

Above: Jacob Antczak, 5, mimics the puffer fish during a game of “Ocean Motion.”

Left: Molly Barkman, Mote intern, talks about the dip nets and how to properly use them.

Mote Marine organizes a variety of summer camps that offer adventures for every age group. Students entering first grade through fourth grade in the fall were able to participate in AquaKids, which featured the theme, “Senses of the Sea.” The week-long camp, held from July 25 to July 29, allowed campers to discover how marine animals use their senses to survive in the ocean.

The campers learned hands-on by snorkeling, doing field sampling with nets, visiting the aquarium and going on a boat ride around the bay.

At the end of the week, the campers shared and wrote about what they learned. Each camper received a certificate of completion Friday, July 29.

Brad Tanner, school program coordinator, does the “manatee” as he leads the AquaKids in “Ocean Motion,” which is similar to “Simon Says.”

Elisabeth Riley, 6, shows off her camp completion certificate.

Molly Medeiros, 7, helps Julian Yenne, 8, with his ocean-themed word search.

ONLINE: See more photos from Mote’s AquaKids camp. Dianna Guisinger, 10, shows off a www.YourObserver.com

shell she found while snorkeling.

AquaKids enjoy snorkeling and finding a wide variety of shells and sea urchins.

18A

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

real estate | transactions

Lynne Koy

by Adam Hughes | Research Editor

presents her

LuxuRy PReMIeR ◆

COLLeCTIOn◆

G

DIN

PEN

Amanda Sebastiano

BIRD KEY - Classic Mediterranean home on open bay with gorgeous sunset views and deep water docking. www.344WRoyalFlamingo.com $2,995,000

Unit 231 at Villa Di Lancia has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,485 square feet of living area. It sold for $1,312,500.

Villa di Lancia condo sells for $1.3 million

SE OU NH 4 OPE N 1 – SU

BIRD KEY - Fabulous 4BD/4.5BA canal front home on deep sailboat water. Stunning foyer, gourmet kitchen & game room with bay views. www.647Nowl.com $1,895,000

PROMENADE - Enjoy endless Northwest Gulf views from every room in this 2BD/2BA condominium residence. $775,000

BEACHPLACE – Direct Gulf Views!

2BD/2BA Split plan,meticulously care for, w/2 deeded parking spaces.

A3945346 $649,000.

SEAPLACE - Direct Gulf views from this stunning 2 BD/2BA furnished condo w/covered parking. $529,000

BIRD KEY - Drastic Price Reduction on this 4BD/3.5BA completely updated canal front home w/a newly screened & resurfaced caged pool. www.299RobinDr.com $1,449,000

SEAPLACE – Beautifully designed, skillfully remodeled 3BD/2BA residence with direct gulf views!

SUNSET BEACH – Direct Gulf Views!

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

SEAPLACE - Enjoy fabulous Southwest gulf views from this tastefully updated 2BD/2 BA penthouse level condominium. www.1925Seaplace406.com $439,000

BAYPORT - Fully furnished SAND CAY – 2BD/2BA with Gulf 2BD/2BA condominium w/deeded & Bay views, fully furnished, great rental property! beach access. $324,900 $329,000

$699,000

CASTILLIAN – Direct Gulf View!

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

SEAPLACE - Turnkey Furnished 2BD/2BA with Southwest Gulf Views and one covered parking space. Priced to sell. $379,000

LONGBOAT HARBOUR – 2 Bedroom / 2 Bath fully furnished with beautiful bay views and deeded beach access. $299,000

941.387.1803

lkoy@coldwellbanker.com Tour Lynne’s properties at

www.lynnekoy.com

At The Chart House on Longboat Key

Broker / Associate, CRB, CRS, GRI Previews International Property Specialist International President’s Premier, Involved Citizen: Sarasota Opera, SPARCC, Make-a Wish, Meals on Wheels, Breast Cancer Awareness

35 SALES YEAR TO DATE IN 2011 ◆

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

Facebook / Twitter LinkedIn / YouTube

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◆

Eydie Koonin, trustee, of Marietta, Ga., sold the Unit 231 condominium at 2185 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Steve and Deborah Cossingham, trustees, of Newport, N.H., for $1,312,500. Built in 1996, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,485 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $1,375,000 in 2004.

The sale was the largest Key transaction recorded during the week of July 18 through July 22 at the Sarasota and Manatee County courthouses.

Of the week’s nine residential sales, six occurred on Longboat Key, four of which were in Manatee County, while two took place on Lido Key and one on Bird Key. Both the Villa di Lancia sale and a Bird Key home sale exceeded $1 million.

Sutton Place

The Pierre

Shawn Icely sold the home at 536 N. Spoonbill Drive to Michael Seery, trustee, Sarasota, for $1.25 million. Built in 1963, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,471 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $1.5 million in 2007.

John Kechriotis, trustee, Denver, sold the Unit 501 condominium at 455 Longboat Club Road to Neil and Violet Rosenblit, Windermere, for $725,000. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths and 2,780 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $599,200 in 1991.

Land’s End

Mary Siekmann, trustee, and former Longboat Key Vice Mayor Robert Siekmann, Longboat Key, sold their Unit 6 condominium at 660 Land’s End Drive to Thomas and Zofia Long, of Nashua, N.H., for $510,000. Built in 1982, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,803 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $448,000 in 2002.

Seagrape Inn

Gary Wegner, of Pewaukee, Wis., sold his Unit 8 condominium at 5125 Gulf of Mexico Drive to John and Janet Wells for $500,000.

Built in 1983, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 2,639 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $970,000 in 2006.

Gerald and Bernice Loew, of Great Neck, N.Y., sold their Unit 102 condominium at 600 Sutton Place to Michael and Joan Petros, of DeKalb, Ill., for $270,000. Built in 1973, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 992 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $285,000 in 2003.

Longboat Harbour

Patricia Clark, of St. Joseph, Mich., sold her Unit 104 condominium at 4440 Exeter Drive to Angela Michaud, trustee, of Manchester, N.H., for $210,000. Built in 1970, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 992 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $200,000 in 2000.

Bird Key

John Ringling Estates Inc.

Carolyn Ryan, of Summit, N.J., sold her home at 241 Garfield Drive to John and Amanda Buscher, Bradenton, for $372,000.

Built in 1950, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 1,030 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $145,000 in 1995.

Lido Ambassador

HSBC Bank USA, N.A., trustee, sold the Unit 402 condominium at 800 Benjamin Franklin Drive to Lauren Danielson, Palmetto, for $353,000. Built in 1978, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,150 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $315,000 in 2002.

Visit our website to see a map of the real-estate transactions. www.YourObserver.com

BUILDING PERMITS These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of July 22 through July 28, in order of dollar amounts. (GMD = Gulf of Mexico Drive) Address 6701 GMD 3632 Fair Oaks Place 3360 GMD 575 Sanctuary Drive 1200 Bogey Lane 2729 GMD 1445 GMD 2741 GMD 1191 Bogey Lane 574 Norton St. 731 Binnacle Point Drive 1241 GMD 540 Golf Links Lane 4415 GMD 6040 GMD 223 N. Shore Road 601 Birdie Lane

Permit Alteration Alteration Alteration Addition Re-roof Alteration Alteration Alteration Alteration Alteration Alteration Alteration Alteration Re-roof Alteration Alteration Alteration

Applicant Amount Markus Schulz $88,071 Bryan Langton $50,431 Anthony Ridley $33,500 Charles Jones $22,193.44 Joyce Taylor, trustee $21,530 Ralph and Joy Shepherd $13,882 Elizabeth Woods $11,000 David Fried $6,220 Robin Carlstein $3,066.62 John Sizemore $2,900 James Smith $2,475 David Purpora $2,470 Janice Cook $2,450 Longboat Harbour $2,400 David Miller $2,200 David Reploeg $1,060 Cardwell Hill House Farm Inc. $0

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

19A

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

7508 Midnight Pass Road Modern Masterpiece. Situated on over one acre on Heron Lagoon, this private walled estate in the Sanderling Club is truly one-of-a-kind. As you enter through the gates you will be captivated by a magnificent display of contemporary architecture perfectly blended into the stunning landscape. $3,250,00 Schemmel Property Group, Joel Schemmel 941.587.4894

990 Boulevard of the Arts, 601 Barbara Mei

$1,550,000 941.893.7417

6424 Gulf Drive, 7 Terry Hayes

$1,199,999 941.302.3100

7030 Firehouse Road Cheryl Loeffler

$999,000 941.302.9674

6300 Midnight Pass Road, 606 Tom Kelley

$899,000 941.320.5530

5750 Midnight Pass Road, 705E Kathleen Ucci

$749,000 941.302.2344

120 Beach Avenue Jo Rutstein

$739,000 941.587.9156

6326 Midnight Pass Road, 509 Peg Davant

3009 Avenue E Terry Hayes

$699,000 941.302.3100

418 Fieldstone Drive $699,000 Terry Herschberger & Melissa Caldwell 941.468.8439

1707 Flower Drive Cheryl Loeffler

$695,000 941.364.4000

5760 Midnight Pass Road, 307D Peg Davant

$689,000 941.356.4552

2016 Harbourside Drive, 314 Sheldon Paley

4127 Las Palmas Way Joel Schemmel

$645,000 941.587.4894

941.364.4000

$1,695,000 941.224.8602

877.317.7003

SignatureSIR.com

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

$650,000 941.356.1857

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

51253

1004 Riviera Dunes Way Arnie DuFort

$2,349,000 941.356.4552

20A

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

BUSINESS OBSERVER

#1 AG NTOP TG IESALES NTN IT SNAI SL SEASVL VO LLUU A NASSOCIATE EOS VM OE ##1E1 A G EN AELS M EL U M E for Sarasota and Manatee in in 2009 for for Sarasota and Manatee Counties 2009 in 2009 Sarasota and Counties Manatee Counties

Ranked in the top 1% of 1 C ENT in Florida for 2009 ColdwellinBanker Associates Worldwide in Florida Florida for 2009 for 2009

By Amanda Sebastiano | Staff Writer

##1L1 D CC O LE DLL W LA KAR EN RK N O WO AAE GGREE N DLEWLBE LBN LAKN BE ATTG

Ackerman Ackerman

Ackerman

BARBARA

REALTOR®

BARA B A R BBAARR A

® REALTOR® REALTOR

The name to know in real estate

T h e www.barbaraackerman.com na me to know in real estate www.barbaraackerman.com

The name to know in real estate

As seen on Sarasota’s

“Hot ProPerties” Segment Every Wednesday!

www.barbaraackerman.com

www.barbaraackerman.com

Key Royale – Holmes Beach Waterfront Remodeled 3BR/2BA home with water on three sides! Spacious floor plan with 2,688 square feet, waterfront lap pool, private dock w/ lift and 2-car garage. $ 949,000 $899,000

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

Courtesy photo

Mary Kay Ryan, Melissa Sparks, Maria de la Cruz and Rhonda Holliday

+ Longboat Key Club and Resort honors two of its managers for achievements

Ritz Tower – Bay & City Views PENTHOUSE residence with 4,704 Sq. Ft., 4 BR plus family room and 4.5 bathrooms offers incredible views, wood & marble floors, granite & stainless gourmet kitchen, 10’ ceilings. $ 3,595,000

The Longboat Key Club and Resort held a reception recently for two of its managers, who were nominated by their co-workers for displaying exemplary efforts. Safety Manager Robert Hunt and Sales Manager Melissa Sparks were honored for their achievements last quarter with a cash award, gift card and an engraved clock.

NG

NEW

La Firenza - Direct Beach Front Stunning sunsets over the Gulf and partial Bay views from this SW corner 3,521 SF apartment with varying 11 & 12 ft ceilings. Spacious floor plan with 3BR+ family room and den/3.5 BA, full bar and summer kitchen. Oversized private 2-car garage. $ 3,500,000

University Park - Custom Lakefront Beautifully maintained 3BR + Den home with 10ft ceilings, his & her bath, quality builtin’s, & expanded great room overlooking the pool/spa and lake. Two car garage. $ 569,000

TI LIS

+ WUSF Public Media celebrates partnership with Armel Jewelers WUSF Public Media honored Armel Jewelers, a familyowned business, for its 20-year partnership and sponsorship of USF radio and television stations. It became a sponsor in 1991. Its first branch opened in 1967 on St. Armands Circle.

“Through Sid (Melnick)’s leadership — and the continued leadership of Michael (Melnick) and his staff — Armel Jewelers remains a West Coast Florida treasure,” said WUSF General Manager JoAnn Urofsky, in a prepared statement.

Grand Bay I – 9th Floor Bay Front Best of both worlds, sunrises on the Bay and sunsets on the Gulf! 3BR/3.5BA with private elevator foyer, 11 ft. ceilings, his & her baths and two large terraces. Many unique interior finishes! 2 garage spaces. $1,150,000

REAL ESTATE REPORTS

By Amanda Sebastiano | Staff Writer

SE OU Dr N H stway-4 E P O 9 We un 1 S 121 at & S

Lido Shores - Direct Gulf Front Palazzo Combines 200 ft. of seawalled Gulf front with private Dock and Beach access. This 7,415 SF residence built in 2003 has 5BR/8BA, exercise room, his and her bath & studies, 50 ft pool/spa & 5-car garage.

8,900,000

$

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 BEACHPLACE III – Direct Gulf Front #304 3rd Floor 2BR/2BA 1,503 Sq. Ft. $695,000 BAY HARBOUR – Longboat Key Bayfront D E UCSq. Ft. $295,000 Developer Corner Apt.E D1,250 R 3BR D Lot EVacant RED ROCK TERRACE – U Oyster CBay D Lot w/ House Plans $399,000 E R BEACHPLACE III – Direct Gulf Front #302 3rd Floor 2BR/2BA 1,392 Sq. Ft. $670,000 LA BELLASARA – Bay, Marina & City Views 6th Floor 3BR+ Study/4.5BA 3,370 Sq. Ft. $2,395,000 GRAND BAY II – Bay & City Views 4th Floor 3BR/3BA 2,781 Sq. Ft $1,395,000 BIRD KEY – Open Bay Front D L 3BR + Office/4thS BRO4,467 Sq. Ft. $2,195,000

+ Michael Saunders & Co. welcomes new employee to St. Armands location

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 boat dock & 2 car garage. $ 5,950,000

Linda McKenzie is the newest addition to the Michael Saunders & Co.’s St. Armands location. McKenzie started as a Realtor in 1982 in South Carolina, where she worked on various projects from advertising and demographics to her based-from-home accessories store.

She moved in 1992 to Sarasota, where she opened Luxury Homes Links Real Estate and started a mortgage business in 2001.

00 E 60 r.

OUSexico D H N 4 OPEulf of M Sun 1G at & S

Longboat Key – Boater’s Fantasy 3,435 SF home with 114 feet of DEEP water frontage!

Extra large rooms, with living area on one level and tons of ground floor play space. Covered 45x20 slip and Jet Ski dock included. $ 995,000

WAGNER REALTY Bringing People Home Since 1939

www.WagnerRealty.com

61330

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 amenities and on-site management. Walk to shopping. $ 549,000

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

Call 941-383-5577

SHORT SALE! COVERED BRIDGE ESTATES. 4 BR/2.5BA,

great family home in great area w/ community pool, fitness center & park.

Close to I75 & outlet mall. Bank wants offer! Marta Altizer $ 145,000 #A3920783

SE OU Rd N Hodside-4 E P O Wo un 1 0 S 452Sat &

TOTALLY UPDATED 2BR/2BA

Water Club I - Gulf & Bay Views 6th floor 3BR/3 full BA newly designed & furnished apartment with beautiful water views, private elevator, 10’ ceilings and two expansive terraces for viewing nightly sunsets. Gated community with excellent amenities. Furnished. $ 1,599,00

Bayport- Sporting Community Beach retreat that lives like a home. Beautifully & freshly remodeled, 3 full BR with sitting areas, and loads of storage, 2 private patios, his/her bath areas. Steps to private beach. $ 649,900 $629,500

Builder owned w/bonus room, gourmet chef’s kitchen, expanded living area, shows like a model, designer updates too numerous to list. Priced below replacement. Marc Turner $ 245,000 #A3932025

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. $ 849,900

CONRAD

BEACH Incredible opportunity to own 2 adjoining lots west of Gulf of Mexico Drive. Conrad Beach boasts timeless architecture, com. pool & clubhouse. Purchase separately or w/ M5815731. Peter Uliano $ 260,000 #M5815734

ING

ND E PE

GREAT OPPORTUNITY to own in the “Village” on Longboat Key. Turn this into your dream home w/a little TLC, 4BR/2BA, large fenced backyard with room for a pool.

Community boat launch, fishing pier & beach access. Teresia Bradford $ #M5812424 279,000

SAL

Bay Plaza – Bay & Marina Views Largest two bedroom plus study corner residence beautifully renovated with oak wood & Italian tile floors, specialty lighting, wraparound terraces and higher ceilings. $ 725,000

Promenade - Penthouse Sweeping Gulf and Bay views with sunsets. 2,612 luxurious sq. ft. w/ 10 ft ceilings, fireplace, wet bar, granite & marble baths, 2 terraces, & 2 valuable garage parking spaces included. $ 999,000

GULF FRONT PENTHOUSE LONGBOAT KEY 2BR/2BA

Grand Bay-Bay, City, & Golf Course Views Sought-after south facing corner residence with 3BR/3 Full Baths, private elevator foyer, wraparound terrace, wood floors, stainless appliances, granite wet bar. $ 1,395,000

totally renovated, tropical gardens, upgrades too numerous to mention. Heated pool and spa, only 53 residences in this well maintained complex. Pets welcome. Marc Turner $ #A3943874 629,500

BEAUTIFUL 2-STORY, 4BR/4BA HOME

Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate, LLC ● 201 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Suite #1, Longboat Key

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

61590

941-387-1820 Direct ● 800-910-8728 Toll-Free

located in luxurious gated community. Anna Maria beaches just across the bridge. Oversized lot with heated pool. Extras galore! Jerry Cunningham $ #A3938209 695,527

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

LONGBOAT KEY

21A

HARBOR ACRES

Inn on the Beach Club-Suite Updated & Furnished With Sophistication, Detail and Quality. $329,500

Fabulous Neighborhood! Wonderfully Updated Pool Home with Charm & Character. $695,000

LONGBOAT KEY

Spectacular Views of Gulf, Bay and City! Delightful L’Ambiance Unit with over 2600 SF of Classy Upgrades and Finishes! $1,890,000

LONGBOAT KEY

CASEY KEY

LONGBOAT KEY

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

Great Little Beach Getaway with Bay Access $1,950,000

$549,000

Very Special Updated Beachfront Unit at an Affordable Price. Promenade Two Bedroom with Gulf Views.

LONGBOAT KEY

GOLDEN GATE POINT

L’Ambiance Walk-Down w/ 3 Bedrooms, 4 1/2 Baths Plus Den. 3380 SF $2,700,000

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

LONGBOAT KEY

Dreamy Coastal Living. Three Bedroom Custom Pool Home With Sparkling Perfection and Delicious Water Views.

995,000

SIESTA KEY

LONGBOAT KEY

Peacock Bay Estate w/ 5 En-Suite Bedrooms, Guest Suite, Superb Views and Unparalleled Architectural Finishes! $8,595,000

L’Ambiance Three Bedroom with Direct Gulf Beach Views. $1,799,000

LONGBOAT KEY

Tranquil and Private Resort-Like Beachfront Estate on Longboat Key.

$4,495,000

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 61728

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

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

Florida’s Best Weekly Newspapers

General Excellence

1st — Longboat Observer 2nd — East County Observer 3rd — Sarasota Observer

Overall Graphic Design 1st — Longboat Observer 2nd — Sarasota Observer 3rd — East County Observer

As judged in the largest-circulation category by newspaper professionals in three states for the 2010 Better Florida Weekly Newspaper Contest sponsored by the Florida Press Association.

Additional Awards Best Website — YourObserver.com First Place Special Section — Gulf Coast Business Review Religion Writing — Robin Hartill, Longboat Observer Community History — Loren Mayo, Sarasota Observer Sports Game Day Story — Jen Blanco, East County Observer Sport Feature — Jen Blanco, East County Observer Spot News Photo — Michael Eng, East County Observer

Second Place General Excellence — Gulf Coast Business Review Editorial Award — Longboat Observer Special Section — Season Magazine, Stephanie Hannum Sports Photo — Jen Blanco, East County Observer Portfolio Photography — Michael Eng, East County Observer Business Writing — Carl Cronan, Gulf Coast Business Review Investigative Reporting — Stan Zimmerman, William Mansell, Pelican Press Editorial Page — Pelican Press, Rachel Hackney

Third Place Community History — Robin Hartill, Longboat Observer Spot News Photo — Loren Mayo, Sarasota Observer Special Section — East County Observer Education Writing — Jay Brady, Gulf Coast Business Review

Editorial Award — Pelican Press First Amendment Defense — Pelican Press, Rachel Hackney Investigative Reporting — Rachel Hackney, William Mansell, Pelican Press Education Writing — William Mansell, Pelican Press Serious Column — Dr. Peter Wish, Pelican Press

Our readers and advertisers deserve the best.

The Observer You. Your Neighbors. Your Neighborhood.

60307

22A

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

games | deal us in

By Donna Swan | Contributing Writer

Technique is the key in this hand This hand gives the reader a chance to display his technique by deciding how he would play a three notrump contract after a heart lead. Notice the way South bid his hand. In the balancing position, a double followed by a rebid of notrump at the lowest level shows a balanced 16 to 18 points.

West leads the Jack of hearts, and your problem is obvious — you must develop the diamond suit to win nine tricks. However, you may have to give up two diamond tricks and run the risk of the defenders also taking three heart tricks.

The obvious line is to hope that West

started with a singleton or doubleton ace of diamonds. Or, there is a chance that East started with a secondary diamond honor that was guarded only once.

Start by allowing West to win the first trick. If he continues with a heart, win and lead a low diamond. Insert dummy’s nine; if West plays low, East wins but can’t return a heart. If he shifts to a club, play the ace and force out the ace of diamonds — then you are safe.

If West shifts at trick two, you have to tackle diamonds differently. Win West’s return in your hand and lead

a low diamond to the queen. (West must have the ace of diamonds and king of clubs for his opening bid.) Return a diamond from dummy to your king. No matter how the cards lie, you now have time to set up the diamonds. If West has been careful to exit safely without giving you a second heart trick, you have to lead a club up to the queen for your game-making trick.

The Observer’s “It’s Read Everywhere” photo contest is now online at YourObserver. com. Visit our website, YourObserver.com, to upload your photo submissions from now until Oct. 15; photos submitted directly to the paper will automatically be uploaded to our website.

Online voting takes place from Nov. 1 to Nov. 7.

Winners will be announced in the Nov. 10 issue of the Longboat Observer. Email your entries to nschwartz@ yourobserver.com or mail them to the Longboat Observer, 5570 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, Fla., 34228.

BRIDGE HAND Dealer: West

Vulnerable: East, West

North

West

♠ 54 ♥ K J 10 9 6 ♦ AJ8 ♣KJ3

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

Bidding: West 1 ♥ Pass Pass Pass

IT’S READ EVERYWHERE

23A

♠ AQ63 ♥732 ♦ Q94 ♣Q95

South

♠ ♥ ♦ ♣

K7 AQ5 K6532 A 10 4

North Pass 1 ♠ 3NT

Opening Lead: J

East

♠ J 10 9 8 2 ♥ 84 ♦ 10 7 ♣8762

East Pass Pass Pass

South Double 1NT 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 25A. © Tribune Media Services

brazil. Longboat Key residents Anne and Bill Kelley share a copy of the Longboat Observer, and a view of the Manaus, Brazil, harbor, while on a cruise on the Amazon River.

Talk to Tina Today - Longboat Key’s International Connection

ONE PROPERTY, TWO OPPORTUNITIES Spectacular 100’ x 238’ beachfront parcel offering full Gulf and gorgeous sunset views with approved plans for a 5300 sq.ft. custom residence. Currently zoned for short term rentals with 2 updated beach bungalows producing great income until you’re ready to build your own dream … Offered at $1,799,000.00

MICHAEL

MOULTON Certified Residential Specialist

Michael Saunders & Company Licensed Real Estate Broker

Longboat Key Realty

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

G LISTIN NEW

G LISTIN NEW

EL CONQUISTADOR - Water view Spanish style 5BR hacienda estate on 1 acre w/ 2 level pool area with 2nd floor covered terrace. A3946054 $1,375,000

BAY ISLES NEW CONSTRUCTION - Never lived in waterfront Cliff Scholtz designed 4BR, 6 bath residence. A3946626 $3,250,000.

www.engelvoelkers.com/longboatkey

61253

Spectacular view of open bay from this 1st flr, 1BR/1BA walk-out unit being sold unfurn. Mirrored wall in DR reflects the water. Tile flrs in entrance & kitchen. Enclosed lanai perfect for watching the birds, dolphin, manatee or fish jump right outside your door. Boat dockage available/ floating dock for kayaks/canoes plus fishing pier. Gym, saunas, billiard table, rec hall, tennis, 4 heated pools and beautiful beach $194,000 w/parking. A3944308 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

EN PROVENCE - Exquisite 3BR gulf front furnished condo that feels like a private home on the beach. A3929322 $2,450,000

COUNTRY CLUB SHORES – New construction 4BR canal front home. A3929970 $995,000

WATER CLUB - Coveted southern exposure on the 7th floor elegantly furnished. A3919693 $2,495,000

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

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

61598

61243

6000 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, FL 34217

24A

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

Sunrise/sunset

RAINFALL

Mon., July 25 Tues., July 26 Wed., July 27 Thurs., July 28 Fri., July 29 Sat., July 30 Sun., July 31

North 0.00 0.04 0.06 0.16 0.05 0.00 0.00

Mid 0.00 0.00 0.10 0.20 0.00 0.00 0.01

Month to date: 2011

5.56 in Year-to-date:

South 0.00 0.00 0.30 0.18 0.00 0.00 0.41

2010 7.99 in.

2011 2010 25.76 in. 24.57 in.

Sunrise

Sunset

Thurs., Aug. 4

6:56

8:17

Fri., Aug. 5

6:56

8:17

Sat., Aug. 6

6:57

8:16

Sun., Aug. 7

6:57

8:15

Mon., Aug. 8

6:58

8:14

Tues., Aug. 9

6:58

8:14

Wed., Aug. 10

6:59

8:13

WEEKLY WINNEr: pastoral pastel

TemperatureS

Temps.

High Low 90 81 91.5 78.5 94.5 80 95 78.5 94 79.5 93 78 92 80

Tues., July 26 Wed., July 27 Thurs., July 28 Fri., July 29 Sat., July 30 Sun., July 31 Mon., Aug. 1

Record Temps.

High Low 96 (1998) 67 (1976) 95 (1973) 70 (1965) 98 (1996) 65 (1984) 98 (1983) 64 (1974) 97 (1927) 65 (1976) 101 (1972) 65 (1968) 99 (1974) 64 (1976)

Average Gulf water temperature: 88

TIDE CHART

MOON PHASES Highs

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.

Lows

Thurs., Aug. 4

3:45a

4:35p

10:58a 10:47p

Fri., Aug. 5

4:22a

6:04p

12:16p 11:13p

Sat., Aug. 6

5:08a

8:19p

1:44p 11:33p

Sun., Aug. 7

6:04a

—

3:14p

—

Mon., Aug. 8

7:14a

—

4:32p

—

Tues., Aug. 9

8:32a

—

5:34p

—

Wed., Aug. 10

9:43a

—

6:22p

—

Aug. 6 First

Aug. 13 Full

Aug. 21 Last

Aug. 29 New

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

60851

Bill Funkhouser submitted this sunset photo, taken on Holmes Beach.

THE OLD COLLEGE by Allen Loggia

O B S E RV E R C RO S S WO R D

Edited by Timothy E. Parker

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Writer Kingsley Arbor asset Prevent Don’t put this before the horse Hindu text “Fiddler on the Roof” actor Gradually deteriorate Double-reed woodwind “___ Fire” (Springsteen song) Archaelogical digs, usually Actor Fernando or Lorenzo Bodybuilder’s count Texas students Florida State students Like the Milky Way “___ in Toyland” Daniel survived one Feeling poorly Petrified Rattled one’s saber at Catchphrase for Nelson on “The Simpsons” Extremely hot and dry Olympic swimmer’s slot Mined matter “Aladdin” monkey Balcony section Sumter or McHenry Too sure of oneself Paves, as a road Duke students Buccaneers’ home Raison d’___ Car salesman’s milieu Volcanic outflow Some American Airlines workers

64 66 68 69 71 72 73 76 77 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 90 91 93 94 96 97 98 102 106 109 110 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121

Blithering fool Ball honoree Tossed course Pour, as wine Person-of-the-Year magazine Be 36-Across A la ___ (dessert choice) Deliver a keynote Tennessee students Country that was once Persia “A stitch in time saves ___” Security or faucet problem Swiss river TV Tarzan player Ron Austin-to-Waco dir.

Tackle a word search Hang in there On the ocean blue Battery’s partner River in the Carolinas Cooped-up layer Barbara ___ Geddes Divine Person taking five Virginia students Tulane students Last write-up Prettify Petrie of classic TV Elizabethan and Victorian Surrealist Magritte Extreme Make scholarly corrections to Went on horseback Real-estate document Coquette Decreases, as pain Editor’s “leave it”

dOwn 1 St. Teresa of ___ 2 In-basket items

3 “___ Wanna Cry” (Mariah Carey hit) 4 Spanish punch 5 Leisurely walks 6 Word with “witching” or “happy” 7 Neat as ___ 8 Wears 9 Ernie of the PGA 10 Marina ___ Rey 11 Taped over 12 Ponderous books 13 Wax-coated cheese 14 Denizen 15 Long cigar 16 Genesis shepherd 17 Mountain climber’s need 18 Dick Tracy’s love 28 Hollywood’s Holbrook 30 Hawaiian goose 32 Showed (all) 33 Southern constellation 34 Vereen of “Roots” 37 Attempt to be heard 38 Zoo structure 39 Sojourner explored it 40 Vanderbilt students 41 Spew lava 42 Ballet dancer painter Edgar 43 Loathe 44 Blind as ___ 45 Miami students 47 Allocate 48 “Damn Yankees” siren 52 Number of Olympic rings 53 Deli staple 55 Tranquilize 56 Smudge 57 Actress Burstyn 58 Kilmer of “The Doors” 59 “___ death do us part” 63 Buddies

65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 74 75 77 78 79 82 86 87 88 89 90 92 93 95 97 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 111 112

Hero follower?

Defraud Bird of the Outback Begets Designer Karan Brockovich and namesakes “The Wind in the Willows” character Clifftop home Cartoon chipmunk “The Memory of Trees” singer Discharge, as steam Late Cushiness Swift land Pit stop need ___ XING (street sign) Snakelike fish Clothing, informally “Jeopardy!” questions?

Subsided Tough puzzles Poetic nightfall Scacchi in “The Player” Prophetic card, to some Sidestep Bowling lane button Firewood measure Busy as ___ Morning glory, e.g.

Writer Stanley Gardner Vasco da ___ Bitterly regrets White-tailed eagle Rob Roy’s negative Wrangler alternative end

Last weeks Cryptograms 1. My large dog flunked out of obedience school. While wagging his bushy tail, he claimed the kids ate his homework.

2. A bright economist and finance maven figured out how to cut the deficit and balance the budget- close twelve large states!

Thursday, August 4, 2011 Items Under $200 For Sale

Merchandise Wanted

2 HAMMER Schlemmer deluxe bed loungers (backrests). Like new. Cost $300. Sell $150.

Call 941-383-8733.

SENIOR LOOKING to buy precious metals, time pieces, coins, jewelry and antiques. Please call Marc, 941-321-0707.

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

Ad runs 2 consecutive weeks. Email ad to: classified@yourobserver.com or online at: www.yourobserver.com/classifieds CD’S COLLECTION (250). Assortment of VHS inlude storage bins, $195. 383-1270, 9-12am.

GERMAN PORCELAIN creamer/ sugar bowl. $50. 941-795-8734.

PEDAL BOAT - Aqua Toy Seats 4 - with Bikini Top $175. Call 941-322-1001.

Autos For Sale

Announcements LOOKING FOR a NEW STYLIST? Make your appointment today at Design 2000 Salon for Men & Women at Whitney Beach Plaza. We offer all hair services, specializing in color, as well as manicures & pedicures. 941-387-9807 for appointments, walk-in’s welcome!

Auctions NURSERY AUCTION

August 6, 10a.m.-Viewing from 9a.m.

3705 Lena Rd., Bradenton. All kinds of plants, pavers, waterfalls, pots, two desks and more.

All Florida Realty & Auction Co. Ab923 941-746-5355 Au1333. Call or go online for terms. www.afraac.com 10% Buyer Premium, MC, VISA, cash purchases w/ID.

Storage

1970 CHEVROLET Chevelle Big Block SS, red with white stripes. Price $5700. Use E-mail for pictures: davdwh8@msn.com / 239-963-2619.

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

Boat Slips For Rent/Sale BOAT SLIP. High and dry, indoor, for sale or lease.

Southend of LBK at the Boathouse. Owner financing available. For info, call 941-544-5597.

BOATHOUSE LBK: 32/ft. boat slip for sale.

Fully enclosed, top level. 941-383-6748 or 941-587-5896.

LBK MOORINGS: 48' protected water boat slip N6 for rent, $550 per month with annual lease.

937-414-7062

Boats ALL Boats Are Selling Very Well. 65 Boats sold YTD, many in less than 2 weeks. “Let’s talk about selling your boat”. Dave, 941-228-3489, Yachtingflorida@aol.com

Furnishings LAKEWOOD RANCH ESTATE- Aluminum 5-piece patio (cost $1700-Restoration Hardware) now $699; Sofa & loveseat (Robb & Stucky) like new $850. Henredon and Drexel bedroom sets, Stearns & Foster Beds, Stiffe lamps, Stanley Entertainment Center for plasma/LCD ($350@Robb &Stucky) $995. 5-piece Cherry Home Office w/2-lateral files, La-Z-Boy sleeper, much, much, more.

Manatee Furniture 3015 1st St. Bradenton, 10 Blocks north of DeSoto mall on US Hwy 41.

941-745-2596

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

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

Business Opportunities EDUCATORS/NURSES $25K-100K. Free car.

Exotic trips. Residual income. Ongoing Training.

Fastest Growing Industry. Listen 941-366-4586.

Help Wanted Beach Resort Receptionist Reservationist Reliable people person for Longboat Key Resort.

Energetic phone presence a must. Joyful personality with a positive outlook on life. Five years reservation experience. 9 AM to 5 PM 4 days per week, there are no benefits with this position. Start at $12.00 and up depending upon exp. For an interview ask for Jeanette Frint at 941-383-5549.

Marketing/Reservationist This position will be splitting their responsibilities between the coordinating of Marketing for Casa del Mar and handling reservation tasks. The split is about 40% marketing and 60 % reservation work.

Joyful personality with a positive outlook on life.

Five years exp. 9:00 to 5:00. Start at $13 and up depending upon exp. Telephone 941-383-5549, ask for Jeanette Frint. Part time or full time.

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.

Help Wanted

Condos For Sale

Newspaper is seeking a fast paced, detail oriented Typesetter for a part time position in Sarasota, Florida (Part time hours will range from 20-40 hours per week, depending on volume).

Must be able to type at least 75 WPM with great accuracy and proof read typed material and make corrections.

Ideal candidate will have strong computer software and hardware skills.

Legal background preferred.

Please email resume to: employment@review.net.

Please specify WPM typing speed for consideration.

PELICAN HARBOUR LBK- FULL BAY VIEW, boat slips, beach, tennis and pool.

Custom wood and granite kitchen opens to dining & living room for a Great Room effect.

2BR/2BA. No weight limit for dog. $349,000.

Steve or Craig Abbott, Michael Saunders & Company. 941-374-3003

Homes For Rent

PART TIME SERVERS. Shifts are 2.5 hours each, include nights and weekends @ $7.50 ph. Apply in person to: Desoto Beach Club 5201 Desoto Rd, Sarasota, FL.

Condos/Apts. For Rent BEACH-TO-BAY CONDO at Bayport BTC. First floor, end unit. Newly decorated 2 bed/2 bath.

Free local phone, cable and wireless Internet.

Pictures and details: www.bayportbtc.com.

Contact owner at 615-376-9448.

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

(941)565-1401, (941)792-0411.

WELCOME TO Paradise! Longboat Key – “Beachplace” property for RENT – NEWLY owned - Luxurious 2BR/2BA condo with views of the Gulf of Mexico & private golf course. Fully equipped unit with recent upgrades and decorating. Private terrace. Steps to the beach, Olympic size swimming pool, tennis courts, gym, and organized social activities. Covered parking and lots of closet/storage space. Maid service is optional.

Rent is negotiable based on length of stay, unit is occupied Jan-March 2012. We welcome your inquiries. E-mail: kimberley@kpaa.ca or call us at (941)928.0079.

Condos For Sale CASA DEL MAR Condominium - Unit 6F. First floor courtyard unit. 2BR/2BA, furnished, beautiful unit with new kitchen and granite countertops. $475,000. Negotiable. Beach, tennis, pool, grills.

Weekly or seasonal rentals welcome. For more information, call 941-383-5549.

50 STEPS to private LBK beach. Directly across from Gulf. Updated annual rental, fully furnished, 3BR/3BA, patio, plus sunset deck, garage, W/D. 50+ Community. No pets. Non-smoking. $2250/mo. 941-232-1357.

Real Estate Wanted WATERFRONT: I have cash buyers from Europe.

Retired couple from UK are looking for 2-3 bedrooms on the beach. Call Helmer 941-592-8853 Michael Saunders - Lic. R. E. Broker www.helmerhagman.michaelsaunders.com

Vacation/Seasonal Rentals BEACH HARBOR, LBK- 2BR/2BA. Private beach on gulf and docks on bay. Fully furnished. 1st floor unit. Private patio overlooking courtyard.

Botanical wonder. $2500 month includes everything. 215-859-3275.

BEACHPLACE 3BR, UPDATED, TASTEFULLY DECORATED. GULF & BAY VIEWS. AVAILABLE IN SEASON & ANNUAL CALL CYNTHIA 407-492-5749

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”

General Merchandise THRIFT SHOP: LORD’S WAREHOUSE. Hours: Summer Schedule: Aug.-Sept., Saturday, 9a.m. to 1p.m. Non-profit. Clothes, jewelry, furniture, other items. 6140 Gulf of Mexico Drive. 941-383-4738.

DISCOVER THE OTHER ISLAND. Tidy Island in Sarasota Bay. Waterfront 3/2/2 condo on private Island. Views of lake, bay & preserve. Former model, sold furnished! $249,900. Katharine Pepper, RoseBay Real Estate 941-792-9459.

“INTENTIONALLY BETTER” Reserved Space LP Reserved Space

This week’s crossword answers

Go online 24/7 to place your ad in The Observer Classifieds THE OBSERVER GROUP LP # 56733

www.yourobserver.com Your source for local Classifieds

Ready When You Are Classified Ads … the Way to Sell

LV1235

THE OBSERVER LP # 56736

26A YourObserver.com 26A Classifieds Vacation/Seasonal Rentals DIRECT GULF FRONT: 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath condo in small upscale building. Full Gulf views from every room. Nicely furnished, full kitchen, Washer & Dryer. Available: Aug. 1– Nov 30, 1 month min/Winter Season Dec 1, 2011- July 1, 2012, 4 month min. No Smoking. No Pets. 201-694-9222.

Exceptional Vacation Rentals Since 1994 Homes & Condominiums Studios to Six Bedrooms Beachfront, Intercoastal or Garden Excellent Service & Staff Now Offering Beach Castle Resort Nightly and Weekly FLORIDA VACATION CONNECTION www.FLvacationconnection.com 941-387-9709 877-705-2460 LBK: 1BR condo, Gulf side with Island view.

Minimum required stay of 7 nights. 941-383-1083.

LBK: 2BR condo with breathtaking Gulf view.

Minimum required stay of 7 nights. 941-383-1083.

LBK: LONGBEACH. 2BR/2BA, newly remodeled and furnished, beachfront condo. Available Dec 1.

1 mo. min. 770-329-1483, 678-232-5432.

LBK: SEAPLACE, 2BR/2.5BA TH, partial Gulf views, nicely furnished, lanai+ terraces, full kitchen, living, dining area, beach club access (sauna, gym, tennis, w/pool), walk out to the beach, breathtaking sunsets. Rental: Jan-May $3800 +11% tax/mo. June-Dec. $2300 +11% tax) 2 mo. min. mandalka@gmx.de LIDO BEACH CONDOMINIUMS Weekly - Monthly - Seasonal Resort Properties, Inc. Licensed Real Estate Broker 941-388-3921 - 888-388-3921 941-650-1857 Visit us at: resortproperties.pro LIDO BEACH Vacation paradise. 1 & 2 bedroom condos overlooking beautiful Lido Beach.

Weekly rates. Lido Dorset. Rental condo.

1-800-734-3370.

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

LONGBOAT KEY: 2BR, direct beach front, at Veranda Beach Club. Thanksgiving week.

November 12-19. 705-652-3950.

www.yourobserver.com Vacation/Seasonal Rentals

Computer Services

Painting/Wallpapering

Seasonal Rentals on the Gulf!

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.

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.

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

FOR “QUALITY AND EXPERIENCE” Floors, bathrooms, showers, backsplashes, patio and pool decks.

Weekly/ Monthly/ Seasonal Rates Beachfront, Bayfront and In Between Houses or Condos

Carpentry, Painting, Property Caretaking, Roof Leaks/ Coatings, Power washing, Dock Repairs.

Ask about our special rates!

Wagner Realty Since 1939 www.wagnerrentals.com

Excellent service. 30 years experience.

941-383-5765 Home 941-962-4867 cell LBK Resident Licensed/Insured

TILE TILE TILE All Variations of Ceramic Tile Supplied & Installed.

Free Estimates & Custom Designs.

CAREGIVER/ COMPANION. Dependable, honest, patient, available for appointments, shopping, etc.

F/T & P/T. Excellent references. 941-685-7072 or 941-545-5992.

Expert Marble & Travertine Installation Floor & Walls

CAREGIVING BY TINA HOURLY OR 24/7 CARE Assistance with Personal Care/ Shopping/ Transportation/ etc. Excellent references, Insured and Bonded. Call 941-586-7278

Call Ashdown Flooring, Inc. LICENSED (941) 726-3077 INSURED

Grout Cleaning & Sealing Service Available

Legal Services

CNA: 15 years experience, with doctor’s recommendations. Available for nights. 941-536-5339.

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.

BRAZILIAN CLEANING Service by Maria.

Residential/ Commercial. Meticulous Cleaning.

Excellent References. Free Estimates. Reliable.

Lic./ Ins. 941-400-3342

DIVORCE BANKRUPTCY Starting at $65

Cleaning

*1 Signature Divorce *Missing Spouse Divorce *WE COME TO YOU* Covering ALL Areas 1-888-376-7891

CLEANING BY LARISSA. Experienced in housecleaning. Eco-friendly cleaning supplies. Great references. 941-518-6428.

GREENMAGIC CLEANING. Residential & Commercial. Great work. Excellent references.

Affordable Rates. Come home happy. Lic./Ins. 941-780-4248.

Helping “seniors” and other clients set up new computers and email, and learn internet, MS Word, Excel. Website design. dancurry@bellsouth.net 404.754.7555 (Siesta Key Resident) “ JUMPSTART ” LIFE & CAREER www.jumpstartcareercoaching.com Life Coaching, Career Coaching, Resume Writing, Grief Counseling, Interview Coaching. Experience working with executives, job seekers, and clients dealing with life issues. Cell: 941.840.3497 Email: jumpstart@jumpstartcareercoaching.com YOUR PERSONAL BOOKKEEPER, LLC Gail Sunray, Owner Personal & Business Bookkeeping Accounting/ Taxes

JOHN GUBERNAT HANDYMAN SERVICES ALL HOME REPAIRS

5360 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Suite 101 Longboat Key, FL 34228 Rental office 9a.m. - 5p.m. M-F

Adult Care Services

Computer Concierge “Computer Guy”

20 years design background.

Licensed - Insured - LBK Resident References upon request.

941-383-2659

Reservations 941-383-6127 Visa/ MC 800-352-0367

Classified Ads Bring Results 941-955-4888

Personal Services

Doors SLIDING GLASS Door Repair.

Roll-in Roll-out Construction, Inc. 941-321-9010, www.Roll-inRoll-out.com

ISLE TILE

CNA: LICENSED with Experience. Available immediately. Great references. All Certifications completed. Call Angie at 941-993-2480.

SOLD

OWN A MAC/IPHONE/IPAD? MacTutor offers 21 years experience. Unlimited free telephone follow up. (941)812-3887 www.FLMacTutor.com

Home Improvement/ Remodeling

www.Cedarswest.com Wagner Realty Since 1939 www.WagnerRealty.com

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

727-501-3675.

ON THE Gulf w/pool. 1BR condo, sleeps 4. Nicely furnished, cable, phone, full kitchen, living, dining area, W/D in building. Weekly or Monthly. May through January. $1600/mo. 351-5101.

DID WE get your attention? You bet we did!

Make your ad stand out with COLOR. Only in The Observer Classifieds. in The Call 941-955-4888 toClassifieds advertise.

Observer

longboat Observer THE LONGBOAT OBSERVER THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011 Thursday, August 4, 2011

Massage SUMMER SPECIAL! $50 for 50 minute massage.

Liz Yerkes, MA#12474. Rebecca Summers, MA#55989. 4134 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Suite 208.

Longboatmassage.com, 941-387-0857.

I come to your home or office.

   

Bill Paying & Account Reconciliation Organizing Personal and Business Files Budgets & Financial Reports Federal and State Tax Returns BONDED & INSURED Over 25 yrs. experience Telephone: 941-749-5646 yourbookkeeper@tampabay.rr.com

Pet Services W W W. F U R R Y TA I L S 4 G R O O M I N G . C O M MOBILE Dog Grooming - a natural and organic approach to pet care. 941 795-0303.

Property Management PROPERTY MANAGEMENT. Conscientious, responsible person available year-round to be your eyes and ears regarding your property.

Services include: checking on your home while you are away, managing contractors and vendors, supervising punch lists, staging and all project management tasks. Construction and real estate sales experience. Excellent references. Call Michael at (203) 559-4060

Tile STEVE ALLEN FLOOR COVERINGS PROFESSIONAL TILE & MARBLE INSTALLATION 20 YRS. EXPERIENCE CALL FOR FREE ESTIMATE 726-1802 LIC/ INS

Woodworking CABINETRY WOOD custom/manufactured for kitchens, baths and office, crown molding and trim work. Paul, 941-238-8033.

Observe

what you are missing...

Reserved Space LP Reserved Space

Local News that’s

LOCAL NEWS! YourObserver.com

27A Classifieds 27A

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

www.yourobserver.com

BOAT SERVICES

HURRICANE PROTECTION

DOCKSIDE BOAT REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE

CERTIFIED & INSURED

COMPUTER

CHRISTIE’S 778-3924

Is Your home hurricane ready?

Let us do a free storm protection analysis. Call today for a free consultation.

Order now and be ready for September‌the most active hurricane month. ‡ 5ROOGRZQ 6KXWWHUV ‡ 8OWUD 6FUHHQ SO\ )DEULF ‡ $FFRUGLDQ 6KXWWHUV ‡ %RQGHG ,QVXUHG ‡/H[DQ &OHDU 3DQHOV ‡ :RUNHUV &RPS

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Showroom: 3801 N. Washington Blvd. (State Road 301) 1 mile S of University Parkway

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THE LONGBOAT OBSERVER THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011 Thursday, August 4, 2011

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TILE

Pretty Tile, Ugly Grout?

Regrout ♌ Recaulk ♌ Repair Clean ♌ Seal ♌ Recolor

MOVERS

We Cure Sick Grout!

MO V I N G

Floors ♌ Kitchens ♌ Showers

941-755-1300

www.groutdoctor.com

“Will move anything from a couch to a household�

) # # s $/4 &, -/6%23 )-

FIND IT!

Dave McCarthy Operator/Owner

$25 Off with this ad

Free Estimates

TRANSPORTATION

LOCAL - LONG DISTANCE FREE ESTIMATES

ADMIRAL TOWNCAR

Phone (941) 704-4278 Fax (941) 538-3781 dmccarthy114@hotmail.com

Limousine Service at Taxi Prices Airport Service 24/7

60713

LIC/INS. ADAM, 941-724-3917 REFS. Upon Request

61834

9 STONE 9 TILE 9 HARDWOOD 9 LAMINATES 9 FLOORS & WALLS

Ask About EnduroShield Coatings

61723

Dave McCarthy

FLOORING

941-320-1120

Licensed/Insured Lincoln Town Cars No waiting fees - Help with luggage Always on time

Ask about senior/veteran discounts

ADMIRALTC.COM

60715

60730

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For Senior Citizens Prices Include:

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Environmentally Friendly

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INSURANCE

SECUR-ALL INSURANCE AGENCY WE HAVE ARRIVED AT OUR NEW LOCATION

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60732

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!

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Call 955-4888 for more information...

LV1407

www.yourobserver.com

28A

longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

Roger sells Water Club.

He has sold 4 since January.

waterclub204.com Delightful Brighton floor plan with over 3,000 feet including 3 full bedrooms. Updated and beautifully furnished. Sunset Gulf views. $1,499,000 PROmenaDe

promenade402.com Wrapping around the southern corner, this 3BR/3BA is turnkey furnished and has views of the Gulf, bay and city. $799,000 SeaPlace seaplacem1114.com Beautifully updated, this sunset-facing 2BR/2BA is ready to enjoy. Wonderful rental history.

Turnkey furnished. $369,000 seaplaceg7209.com Enjoy Gulf views from this 2BR. Lovingly updated, furnished and ready to enjoy. $299,000 seaplaceg4204.com Terrific value, this 2BR is located in the popular G-4 building. $319,000 PlayeRS club playersclub502C.com 3BR/3BA penthouse with sunset Gulf views. Many upgrades, including the kitchen and baths and custom flooring throughout.

Furnished. $999,000

HaRbOR SecTiOn 561harborcovecircle.com This is a brand new listing in Bay Isles, behind the extra set of private security gates.

Located on one of the view full-bay view point lots with over 185' of water frontage and multiple locations for large boats. Custom floor plan offers the best of open living. $2,195,000 520harborcaylane.com Located in the exclusive community of the Harbor Section on south Longboat, this 4BR home offers deep water dockage for your boat. Sunny southern exposure makes this house light and bright! $1,395,000 cOunTRy club SHOReS 1015bogeylane.com You will be enthralled by the beautiful views looking down the waterway and out to the bay from this 4,200 sf, custom-designed John Cannon home. Exquisite designer finishes include custom flooring, inlaid wood ceilings, and window treatments.

Full 4BR and an office. $1,699,000 TOwelS cOuRT 1857morrillstreet.com Downtown Sarasota... a residence, a studio or commercial venture. 2BR/2BA plus garage; next door is a full studio with bath and kitchen. Ample parking. $449,000

waterclub-208.com Dover plan offers an incredible value. 3BR/3BA, wood floors in living areas AND fully furnished. Partial Gulf views and beautiful, expansive garden views. $999,000

Roger sells Bird

Key. ❷

❶ ❸

▲ 1. 333westroyalflamingo.com Built on an over-sized lot, this home is ideal for renovating or creating your dream home on Bird Key's waterway. $1,099,000 2. 485eastroyalflamingodrive.com 5BR waterfront home with high ceilings and open floor plan. $1,295,000

Roger sells Grand Bay.

▲ 3. 611mourningdove.com Bird Key's best direct bayfront value!

Unobstructed waterfront views across to Sarasota. Four bedrooms, open floor plan, upscale finishes and soaring ceilings. Located on the coveted Mourning Dove Drive. $3,445,000

Roger sells Siesta Key.

❶ ❷

1. grandbay446.com Building 4 on the southern side means no buildings will ever block your view. Beautifully furnished and overlooks the marina, golf course and downtown. Two parking spaces, bright and sunny. $1,495,000

2. grandbay211.com Expansive panoramic bay views from this Antigua floor plan in Building 2. Third-floor level views which is the first living level and offers extra terrace space. This offering is the best value in Grand Bay. $999,000

▲ 9250blindpassroad.com This is a one-of-a-kind contemporary residence located directly on Turtle Beach. Custom built with 3BR, den, private elevator and house level swimming pool. Incredible views and privacy. $2,495,000 8419midnightpass.com Gorgeous direct bayfront views with deep water boating. This 3BR/2BA has more than 3,200 sf to enjoy. $1,095,000

roger c. pettingell Luxury Waterfront SpeciaLiSt

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

DAY-TRIPPING by Loren Mayo | Community Editor

Loren Mayo

In 1990, Dale Chihuly toured a glass school on the island of Niijima, China. While there, he was reminded of Japanese fishing floats, which he collected on the beach when he lived in Washington. He started creating a series of round balls — the idea was to make them large and to use an abundance of color. The space has since become one of the most meditative areas of the Chihuly Collection, at the Morean Arts Center, in St. Petersburg.

Color Explosion Warning: You’ll have to resist running your fingers along the sleek surfaces of the enchanting and stunning Dale Chihuly glass collection.

P

repare to be transfixed by crystallized glass chandeliers, a tumbleweed forest and a meditative boat room as you take a tour of the Chihuly Collection at the Morean Arts Center, in St. Petersburg.

The Chihuly Collection opened to the public July 10, 2010. One of the newest jewels of St. Pete’s vibrant artsand-culture scene, it features 16 stunning installations ranging from small vessels to room-size installations.

To produce unique visual stimulation, each installation is complemented by an individually designed space, whether a glossy black platform, curving wall or narrow hallway with a mesmerizing glass ceiling above.

CHIHULY CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

ARTS CALENDAR:

INSIDE

See what’s happening this week / 5

Edibles: Libby’s Café + Bar builds relationships with its customers.

PAGE 7

REVIEW

‘Cowboys and Aliens’ / PAGE 4

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

COVER STORY CHIHULY from 1

ADDITIONAL ARTS ATTRACTIONS St. Petersburg offers a variety of familyfriendly venues. Here are some noteworthy places to check out when visiting.

AMERICAN STAGE THEATRE COMPANY

163 Third St., St. Petersburg 727-823-7529 American Stage started out in an old cinema house in downtown St. Petersburg with 179 seats. In 1984, it moved to an alternative site, an intimate 130-seat space with a lobby, costume shop, rehearsal hall and office space, where it flourished for the next quartercentury. In the 2006-2007 season, the theater entered into a partnership with St. Petersburg College to build a new state-of-the-art building in the heart of downtown St. Pete.

American Stage Theatre Company

Dale Chihuly was born in 1941 in Tacoma, Wash. His fascination with glass began as a weaving student while studying interior design at the University of Washington. After graduating in 1965, he enrolled in the first glass program at the Rhode Island School of Design, where he later established the school’s glass program and taught for more than a decade.

In 1968, Chihuly received a Fulbright Fellowship to work at the Venini Factory, in Venice, Italy. It was there that he learned well the team approach to blowing glass, which he continues to this day. In 1971, he co-founded Pilchuck Glass School, in Washington, where he has paved the way in the development of glass as a fine art.

Chihuly is perhaps better known for his vessels, which he began developing in the mid-1970s, focusing his interest in sculpture on the vessel to create individual pieces that gradually increased in size and color. He has worked on several temporary outdoor projects, such as “Chihuly over Venice,” during which he worked in glass factories in Finland, Ireland, and Mexico, and “Chihuly in the Light of Jerusalem 2000.”

The Chihuly Collection at the Morean Arts Center includes large-scale installations for which he is celebrated, such as the stunning Ruby Red Icicle Chandelier, created specifically for this collection, along with popular series work that includes Macchia, Niijima floats, Persians and Tumbleweeds.

Museum of Fine Arts

255 Beach Drive N.E., St. Petersburg 727-896-2667 www.fine-arts.org This museum is on the water and surrounded by a shady park, restaurants and shops. The collection encompasses more than 14,000 objects from antiquity to present day, and features French impressionist paintings, plus galleries of Steuben glass, decorative arts and preColumbian objects. Make sure to take a walk through two interior gardens and the second-floor gallery, where paper and photographic works are displayed. Not to miss is the museum’s photography collection of more than 10,000 images.

The Dali Museum

1 Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg 727-823-3767 www.thedali.org The permanent home of the world’s most comprehensive collection of Salvador Dalí’s work, The Dali Museum boasts 96 oil paintings, more than 100 watercolors and drawings, 1,300 graphics, photographs, sculptures and objects, plus an extensive archival library. The event calendar for August features Yoga + Dali every Sunday; Dillydally with Dali,

The Dali Museum where children can learn via storytelling, puzzles and games; Dali and Beyond Film Series, a documentary that surveys the life and art of Dali; Get Social @The Dali, a social media event for Tweeters and Facebook followers; and more.

STUDIO@620

620 First Ave. S., St. Petersburg 727-895-6620 This quaint little studio in downtown St. Petersburg is home to both the visual and performing arts. The brainchild of Artistic Directors David Ellis and Bob Devin Jones, the studio’s calendar is jam-packed with movement and dance classes, summer repertory, film screenings and concerts.

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COVER STORY

BY THE NUMBERS

10,000 — number of square feet of the gallery 7,600 — number of square feet used as gallery space 200 — number of museum collections that house Dale Chihuly’s work 16 — number of installations

TRAVEL LOG WHAT: The Chihuly Collection

Chihuly created the Ruby Red Icicle Chandelier as the Morean Art Center’s signature piece.

The original Persian Ceiling is large enough for viewers to lie down on the floor and watch the lights. If you see this exhibit, try to spot Cupid and the crab.

This set of paintings is called the Drawing Wall.

This installation is entitled “Mille Fiori” — a thousand flowers.

In his Macchia Forest, Chihuly used a special opaque layer in between the colors. The pieces weigh up to 50 pounds each.

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431 St. Armands Circle 941.388.4415 | cafeleurope.net 60792

WHERE: 400 Beach Drive, St. Petersburg WHY: The Chihuly Collection, which opened July 10, 2010, at the Morean Arts Center, is a permanent collection of world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly’s artwork in a 10,000-square-foot setting designed by architect Albert Alfonso. The collection also includes a retail store as well as a 30-seat theater. The Glass Studio and Hot Shop recently opened at its Central Avenue location, offering guests the opportunity to see live glass-blowing demonstrations.

INFO: Call 727-896-4527 or visit MoreanArtsCenter.orgS

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

EVENTS

A&ECALENDAR

ART UPTOWN — Third annual Dog Days Art Show runs through Aug. 25. Opening reception takes place from 6 to 9 p.m. Aug. 12, at 1367 Main St.; 955-5409; www. artuptown.com.

BOLIVAR ART GALLERY — Small works show featuring 20 local artists runs through August, at 506 S. Pineapple Ave.; 3661649.

DABBERT GALLERY — “Summer Showcase,” featuring the works of six sculptors, one printmaker, 23 painters, one pastel artist and one photographer, runs through September. Located at 76 S. Palm Ave.; 955-1315; www.dabbertgallery.com.

ELIZABETH STEVENS GALLERY — “Easy Living,” featuring gallery artists, runs through August. Located at 1945 Morrill St.; 365-4222; elizabethstevensgallery.net.

LOCAL COFFEE & TEA — “Ticki Towne Collection,” featuring works by Maryjo Floryjanski, runs through Aug. 17. Located

RINGLING MUSEUM OF ART — “Voices of Hip-Hop in Art” runs through Aug. 14.

The ongoing exhibitions are “Crosscurrents of Design: Asian Export Ceramics,” “20th Century Abstract Art from the Ringling Collection” and “The Art of Jade.” Art After 5 takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. every Thursday, in the art museum and Circus Museum. Tickets: $10, adults; children, 6 to 17, $5; children under 6, free. Tickets for the museum are $25, or $20 for seniors 65 and up; children ages 6 to 17, $10; children 5 and under, free. Art museum free to all on Mondays. Located at 5401 Bay Shore Road; 351-1660. Admission includes the Ringling Museum of Art, Cà d’Zan mansion, Circus Museum, Mable’s Rose Garden and grounds.

RINGLING COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN — “Hanging in Balance: Ten Emerging Chinese Artists,” runs through Aug. 12 to Sept. 17. Opening reception takes place from 5 to 7 p.m. Aug. 12. Galleries are located one-half block east of 2700 N. Tamiami Trail on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way. 359-7563; www.ringling.edu/selbygallery.

SELBY GARDENS — Sixth annual Selby Instructors’ Summer Showcase, runs through Oct. 2, in the Museum of Botany and the Arts, 811 S. Palm Ave.; 366-5731; www.selby.org.

STATE OF THE ARTS GALLERY — “Dive in to the Art World,” featuring water interpretations by Sarasota’s legacy artists, runs through Oct. 1. Located at 1525 State St.,

“Yellow Marsh,” by Heidi Edwards, is on display at the Allyn Gallup Contemporary Art Gallery. with exhibit of gallery artists. 955-2787; www.sarasotafineart.com.

ARTWALKS

GLENRIDGE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER — “Songs, Stories & Mr. Chatterbox,” featuring Roberta MacDonald, takes place at 8 p.m. Aug. 20. at 7333 Scotland Way. Tickets: $15 or $10 for GPAC family. 5525325; www.gpactix.com.

MUSIC

HERMITAGE ARTIST RETREAT — Readings and performances by the first State Teachers Artist Residency artists in residence takes place from 6 to 9 p.m.

Aug. 12, at 6660 Manasota Key Road, Englewood. Free. 475-2098.

FIRST FRIDAY WALKS — Downtown galleries of Burns Square, Pineapple Avenue, Palm Avenue and Main Street from 6 to 9 p.m. feature live music and refreshments.

Next artwalk will be held Aug. 5.

FRIDAYFEST — One Night Rodeo plays country hits Aug. 12. Bird Street Players perform funk, soul and reggae Sept. 16.

At the Van Wezel, 777 N. Tamiami Trail.

Guests are invited to bring blankets or lawn chairs; vendors offer food and beverages.

Coolers and weapons prohibited. In the event of rain, the concert moves indoors to the Grand Foyer. 953-3368; www.vanwezel. org.

SARASOTA FARMERS MARKET — Performance by The Fantum Brothers Jazz Orchestra of New York City, featuring former Sarasota resident Jake Pinto, takes place from 9 a.m. to noon Aug. 6, in downtown Sarasota between Lemon Avenue and Main Street; 504-1077.

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ART CENTER SARASOTA — “The Other Persona,” featuring artwork ranging from fantastic costumes to assemblages, by artists Ray Peper, Jo Proietti, Vicki Chelf and Jeff Schwartz, runs from Aug. 25 through Oct. 22. Opening reception takes place from 5 to 7 p.m. Aug. 25, at 707 N. Tamiami Trail. 365-2032; www.artsarasota. org.

at 5138 Ocean Blvd. in Davidson’s Plaza on Siesta Key; 870-2671; www.localcoffee. com.

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ALLYN GALLUP CONTEMPORARY ART — “Florida Landscapes: Another Look,” featuring works by James Couper, Heidi Edwards and Bruce Marsh, runs from Aug. 11 to Oct. 1. Located at 1288 N. Palm Ave.; 3662454; www.allyngallup.com.

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

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COLUMN

art scene HEARD

HOT TICKETS Roberta McDonald: ‘Songs, Stories and Mr. Chatterbox’: Join the

Glenridge Performing Arts Center for an intimate evening with Broadway and television legend

by Loren Mayo

+ Landscape paintings evoke light and color Allyn Gallup Contemporary Art Gallery presents “Florida Landscapes: Another Look” Aug. 11 through Oct. 1, at 1288 N. Palm Ave. The exhibit showcases Florida through diverse paintings by Bruce Marsh, Heidi Edwards and Jim Couper.

Marsh’s large-scale, photorealistic oil paintings hang in museums and corporate collections around the state, including the Ringling Museum of Art, the National Gallery of Art, in Washington, D.C., and the Museum of Fine Arts, in St. Petersburg. Edwards, who has been painting landscapes for 40 years, has yet to tire of the inspiration that Florida’s flat topography provides. Couper’s works explore

The Hermitage Artist Retreat is hosting open studios to present the work of its first five STARS — State Teachers Artist Residency — artists-in-residence. The event, which marks the culmination of the Hermitage’s first residencies for Florida arts teachers, runs from 6 to 9 p.m. Aug. 12, at 6660 Manasota Key Road,

Roberta McDonald as she reminisces about her life in New York at 8 p.m.

Aug. 20, at 7333 Scotland Way. There will be a Q&A following the performance.

Tickets are $15. Call 552-5325 or visit gpactix.com.

+ Alliance accepting leadership nominations

Courtesy photo

“Ruskin Sky,” by Bruce Marsh nature’s wild side, showing Florida’s natural landscapes through beauty and grace.

For information, visit www.allyngallup.com.

The Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County is searching for those who have made significant contributions to the arts and are actively engaged in the cultural life of the community. The most recent recipients include Christine Jennings, Michael Martella, Betty and Bert Morris, Joseph Arnegger, Tim Jaeger and Jeff Schwartz.

Nominations can be made in the following categories: philanthropy, management, government, arts education, media, artistic achievement and volunteer. Forms are available at

+ Public invited to meet the stars in Englewood. The artists will participate in open studios, readings and a musical performance. Call 475-2098 or visit www.

HermitageArtistRetreat.org for information.

Courtesy photo

Andrea Huffman, Melissa Pranke, Tim Ostrow, Alan Sincic and Patricia Cummins

Molly Schechter

File photo by Rachel S. O’Hara

Abraham Feder performs a cello solo as part of the tribute in memory of Virginia Toulmin at last year’s 12th annual awards ceremony. www.SarasotaArts.org, by calling 365-5118 or emailing bnorwood@SarasotaArts.org.

Maria Wirries takes a bow as Ti Moune in “Once on this Island.”

+ Born to play the part?

The Manatee Players Boot Camp production for 2011 just wrapped up four performances of “Once on this Island.” The story of Hans Christian Anderson’s “Little Mermaid,” adapted to a Caribbean island, was presented by a cast of about 60 campers ages 8 to 17 in a fully staged production realized in just three weeks. The lead female part of Ti Moune, Creole for “little orphan,” was performed

by Maria Wirries, who also was an orphan. She was born in Haiti and raised by an aunt, Jeaneen Wirries, who is now her mother.

This was Maria’s third season of Broadway Boot Camp. The production was directed by Kelly Woodland and Assistant Director Corinne Woodland; Rick Kerby is the managing artistic director of the Manatee Players.

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>> ‘Cowboys

& Aliens’

Suspend your disbelief and catch “Cowboys & Aliens.” One need not be a devout fan of either genre to be entertained by this witty sci-fi Western. And it doesn’t hurt one bit that Director Jon Favreau nabbed the dreamy Daniel Craig (aka Agent 007) in the lead role.

Craig plays Jake Lonergan who has a Jason Bourne thing going for him when he wakes up in the desert with amnesia.

There’s also a strange metal cuff on his wrist. When he wanders into the town of Absolution, Jake’s identity is revealed to him on a wanted poster. Like Bourne, he discovers he has an incredible ability to kick butt.

The town bully (Paul Dano) gets a dose of Jake’s pugilistic prowess, which immensely ires Daddy (Harrison Ford). All this ado is put on hold when aliens attack Absolution and abscond with some of the townsfolk. Inadvertently, Jake uses the wrist device to annihilate one of the spacecrafts.

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the aliens, with Jake leading the posse.

Throw in the beautiful gal (Olivia Wilde), a kid (Noah Ringer) and a dog, and you’ve got your classic Western. Wherein lies the rub is that the good guys are a lot of bad guys doing what they do best. When we come to find out that the aliens are just a bunch of greedy, gold-grubbing, materialistic thugs, it’s almost a reflection upon human nature.

Favreau (“Iron Man”) has constructed a Western, aliens aside, on a par with “3:10 to Yuma” (2007). It’s spectacularly shot and sports a soaring adrenaline-pumping score. The casting could not have been any better. Ford gives his best multi-layered performance since “What Lies Beneath.”

But it’s cucumber-cool Craig who steals the show. He looks just as hot in dusty chaps as he does in an Armani tux. And he can rifle-toss with the best of them.

In the end, as Jake rides off into the khaki-colored New Mexico sky, there’s a “Shane” moment. He embodies the alluring appeal of the redemptive bad guy. You wish he’d stay.

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2011

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EDIBLES

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by Molly Schechter | Food Editor

Relationships rule at Libby’s Café Libby’s Café + Bar

1917 Osprey Ave. 487-7300 www.libbyscafebar.com Owners: Steve, Patrick and Joe Seidensticker Hours: Open seven days a week.

Lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday, brunch and dinner Sunday. sticker expressed a yearning for a White Castle burger. Libby’s version is called “Shades of White Castle,” pun intended. It is a big half-pound prime beef burger with Berkshire ham and a wedge of fried Velveeta cheese. (Note here, please, the good-natured relationship between chef and owner.) Another example is the Karubi pork belly ribs small plate — a fork-tender rib that’s not a rib at all. To call it whimsy doesn’t do justice to the culinary artistry involved. What’s intriguing is the undeniable and deliberate element of fun in Libby’s food.

Casciato says that the restaurant’s giant, baked-to-order, chocolate-chip cookie “sums up the concept of the restaurant — great ingredients and the appeal of simplicity.” It also exemplifies the restaurant’s priority on relationships, because about a year ago, Libby’s took the classic off the menu.

This caused a furor. Taking the kids for a cookie had become a ritual for Southside moms. They organized a petition drive; the cookie was quickly reinstated; and the neighborhood and its café appear to be living happily ever after.

RECIPE

Libby’s cedar-wrapped sustainable salmon with a maple-dijon crust Four servings

Ingredients DIJON CRUST 1/2 cup Dijon mustard 1/2 cup maple syrup 1/2 cup fresh panko breadcrumbs

CEDAR-WRAPPED SALMON 4 each shaved Georgia sustainable cedar wraps 9.5-inch-by6-inch 4 each 8-ounce centercut salmon fillets

Executive Chef Fran Casciato has run the kitchen since Libby’s opened in October 2008.

METHOD

1. Soak the cedar wraps in water for an hour before grilling. This allows the cedar to become more pliable and helps to release steam during the cooking process, which keeps the fish moist.

2. Lay one salmon fillet on the work surface and evenly spread about two tablespoons of the Dijon crust across the top of the fillet.

Repeat with each fillet.

3. Remove the cedar wrap

Photos by Molly Schechter

The cedar-wrapped salmon with a maple-Dijon crust is one of Libby's signature dishes.

from the water and pat dry. Lay cedar wrap down lengthwise from left to right. Position the prepared salmon fillet in the center of the wrap in a north-to-south fashion.

4. Lift the sides of the cedar up and around the fillet, allowing the sides to overlap on the top center of the fillet. Use a small pinch of leftover Dijon glaze to secure the cedar flaps together.

5. Place the wrapped salm-

on seam-side down on a preheated barbecue grill. Cook for three to four minutes until the cedar takes on a lightly charred color. Turn the wrap over and continue to cook two to three minutes more until the bottom is charred as well.

Cover the grill and reduce the heat or move the wrap to a cooler spot and cook four minutes more.

6. Serve the salmon in the wrapper. Lift the top seams away from the fish and enjoy.

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FESTIVAL of STARS Featuring

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Fran Casciato, the executive chef at Libby’s Café + Bar in Southside Village, has an unusual world view for a chef.

It is a strong focus on relationships — with customers, kitchen staff and owners. His passion for food and a commitment to running a successful business guide how he runs the kitchen of what has become a Sarasota institution in a little less than three years.

In the interest of building ongoing relationships with customers, the Libby’s menu is designed so customers can create the dining experience they want, from a light meal on a weeknight to a big night out for a major occasion.

The menu is large with lots of small plates — 20 items are under $10 on the new summer menu. But they are not small; most are two servings. And a popular choice is to order two and share them for a light meal.

There are regular entrées, as well.

One of Libby’s signature items in that category is the cedar-wrapped salmon (see box for recipe). Another is wasabi-crusted tuna. The popular Kobe meatloaf is never on the menu, but it’s always available as a verbal special offered by waitstaff.

Casciato describes his food as “creative comfort food” and believes that ongoing success means “being chameleon like, anticipating what customers will want and continually developing and changing the menu.” A tongue-incheek sense of humor is at play in his approach.

“The restaurant offers serious food without taking itself too seriously,” he says.

A case in point is what resulted when Libby’s co-owner Steve Seiden-

Tickets $50, $35, $15 Sarasota Opera Box Office - 941.328.1300 or online: www.sarasotaopera.org/carreno2.aspx More information: www.carrenodancefestival.com

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LAKEWOOD RANCH HOUSING SHOWCASE!!

$850,000 Manatee- The Inlets 4/3, den, pool home with spectacular outdoor living area on 1/3 acre salt water lot. 65ft dock, boat & jet ski lifts. A3939063 Rayman/Tan 504-9232

$834,200 Sunday, Longboat Key Moorings The largest at Longboat May 1st, fromslip1-4 pm Key Moorings. T-Slip is 194’ in length, easy access in/out of Marina. Offers 3 phase power. A3941060 Marty Benson 232-9264

A Perfect Day to Get Moving!

$499,900 Tidy Island Waterfront, Updated, Gated + Tennis & Pool.

A3937160 Michelle Musto 809-3714

Reduced $20K $655,000 Longboat- Winding Oaks Fabulous views of large lake and golf course.Freshly painted and ready for new owner’s decorator.

Greathousing floor plan. A3938227 Jumpstart your search!!!Mark Huber 356-2435

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• See 17 of the “Best Buys” in Lakewood Ranch Reduced $20K $499,00 Country Club of Sarasota Remodeled 2800 + sq ft, Overlooks 7th Fairway of the TPC at Prestancia. Gated, Op• Register to win a $200 American Express tional golf & racquet membership. A3939416 Owner/agent Michael Gift Certificate Cochrane 539-4520 $1,395,000 Bay Point Park West of Trail, 4BR/4BA , Grand rooms, Gorgeous private pool & lanai.

A3946341 George Appel 376-2626 ca

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$619,000 Serenoa Lakes Spacious floor plan, Water & preserve view, Gated.

A3941986 Greg Hudson 302-1485

• Talk to an onsite financial expert about

Reduced $15K $420,000 Sarasota- Secluded Oaks Lakefront Luxuyour financing needs ry, 2735 sq.ft. 3/3/3 + bonus rm, built ’03. Open plan, wide lake views, big lanai, pool/spa. Many extras! A3940807 Kim Gilliland 809-5151 • Visit our Real Estate Information Center

at 8141 Main Street, Lakewood Ranch Reduced $15K $350,000 Isles of Sarasota This meticulous maintained Oakmont home features an open floor with the most serene ~ Enjoy refreshments setting for watching sunsets. A3936669 Jan Murphy 504-9765

~ Get real estate market information and a list of $349,000 Holmes Beach 2BR Canal Front home. Enclosed Lanai. Well bank-owned and distressed properties maintained. Move-in condition. Walking distance to library, shops and • Trying to decide between building or buying beaches.

A3945249 Team Renick 400-8735 an existing home? $299,000 Lido Shores Soft & inviting 2BR/2BA, 1036SF, turnkey fur ~ Attend a short seminar presented by Gibraltar Homes nished condo on the 4th floor with Gulf views. Heated pool & covered

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$675,000 Jamaica Royale 5th flr, turnkey furnished 2BR/2BA on Siesta Key Beach.

A3940631 Ziad Sleit 928-5493

$449,000 Palm Bay Club Gulfside 2nd flr turnkey furn 2/2, Significant income potential!

A3939315 Rudy Dudon 234-3991 a Key Siest

parking.

A3945835 Michelle Musto 809-3714 • Learn the pros and cons of both

Reduced $10K $169,900 Sarasota- Gulf Gate Great location near For more information and directions: shopping, dining & Siesta Key. 3/2 ranch w/2 car garage. Newer central air, new carpet, paint & new garage A3944728 Gary visit www.PruLWR.com or call door.

941-907-2000 Hoskins 809-7709 $445,000 Casa del Mar Partial Gulf view, End unit, Turnkey furn., Upgrades.

A3931700 Teri Sax 228-5578

$695,000 Villas de la Hacienda, Santa Ana Newly constr. w/European finishings. Near restaurants, hospital, banks & schools.

A3941638 Rayman/Tan 724-0519

$299,000 Harbor Towers Gulf & pond views, 2/2 condo, Newly re-modeled kitchen A3940583 Mitchell Team 586-1754

941-926-7000 ~ Over 5,000 listings on our website: PrudentialPalmsRealty.com Prudential Lakewood Ranch Realty and Prudential Palms Realty are sister companies serving Manatee and Sarasota Counties. © 2011. An independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc. Prudential, the Prudential logo and the Rock symbol are service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc. and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. Used under license.

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