Longboat Observer 03.29.12

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LONGBOAT

You. Your neighbors. Your neighborhood.

NEWS

INSIDE

DIVERSIONS

The search is on for an interim interim town manager.

PAGE 3A

OUR TOWN

SUNDAY, APRIL 1, 2012

‘Real Housewives’ is casting for a new local reality show.

PAGE 2A

Press the play button to hear music samplings from area musicians.

Nude ’Tude by Mallory Gnaegy | Community Editor

Company shows naked ambition The operators of three Florida nudist resorts has made a serious offer to settle the Colony dispute.

Observer staff

+ Longboat Library to convert to café Buoyed by a $75,000 financial boost from Sarasota County to replace the roof at the Longboat Library, the library’s board has decided it’s time to go all-out and enter the new millennium.

The board announced Friday it is going to convert the library to the Longboat Library & Coffee Café, complete with the latest in mocha lattes, cappuccinos, espressos and gourmet desserts — and a tarot card reader.

The board said it plans to add 700 square feet to the building to accommodate the café. The board said the café will be a place for library patrons to enjoy reading in the comfort of multiple leather chairs and couches; have access to wireless internet; watch big-screen TVs with Bluetooth earphones; and enjoy their lattes and desserts at the café’s bar.

Library volunteers will serve as the café’s baristas.

They will be trained this summer in an internship program at the St. Armands Circle Starbucks.

The board also said it will include a room designated specifically for tarot card readings, which will be provided by one of the library volunteers who is a boardcertified reader.

Longboat Library, a nonprofit private corporation, has been leasing its current property from the town for $2 a year.

The board said it plans to pay for the $350,000 addition through a combination of private donations and a grant from the Sarasota County School District.

Construction is expected to begin this summer and be completed when the newly redeveloped Publix opens.

SEE OUR TOWN / 4A

The Colony Beach & Tennis The nudist colony operators Resort’s white knight may have said they would offer Klauber arrived — only he is not exactly and his mortgage holder, Coldressed in white. He may not be ony Lender, $25.7 million and dressed at all. an additional $200,000 for each The operators of three suc- unit owner to acquire all of the cessful nudist colonies in Pasco 18-acre property and 237 resort County have submitted a propos- units. al to the Colony Beach & Tennis Representatives of NudistFLA Association Board of Directors LLC, based in Trojantown in Pasand Colony co County, told owner Dr. MurKlauber and ray “Murf” the association Klauber, and board in a letapparently it is ter they have getting serious the financing consideration. in place to reWith Klauber develop the reand the assosort and mainciation board tain its 237 and the board’s tourist units. d e v e l o p e r, A spokesman Club Holdfor NudistFLA ings Inc., uncould not be able to reach a reached for settlement to Mallory Gnaegy comment. redevelop the Dr. Murf Klauber endorses the NudistFLA is tennis resort, future of his new resort and one of a handKlauber told encourages unit owners to partake ful of nudist the Longboat in the naturist trial period. resort operaObserver Montors in Pasco day the operators of the nudist County, which is north of Tampa. colonies have submitted a seri- There also are more than a dozous proposal to convert the sto- en clothing-free communities ried tennis resort to “The Nudist throughout Florida, as well as six Colony Beach & Tennis Resort.” nude beaches and 10 naturist re“The name is perfect,” said a sorts. The Nudist Colony would company representative. “We be the first nudist colony south only have to make minimal of Tampa. changes to the resort’s current NudistFLA said in its letter sign.” (See rendering at right.) “time is of the essence” for the

The Nudist Colony BEACH AND TENNIS RESORT NUDE SPA • NUDE FITNESS • NUDE SHOPPING

SHIRT, SHOES, NO SERVICE! This rendering shows what The Colony’s new sign could look like with its new motto: “Shirt, Shoes, No Service!”

Colony Association board, Colony unit owners and Klauber to accept its proposal so that redevelopment can begin before the deadline hits at the end of December requiring the Colony to re-open or risk losing its nonconforming tourism zoning.

“So far, there’s no ordinance in

1620 GMD

town laws that can strip us from moving forward, no pun intended,” Klauber said. “This is not my first choice, but, frankly, if all of the parties involved up to this point cannot agree on a settle-

SEE NUDIST COLONY / 4A

bling it on by Robin Hartill | City Editor

Casino boats eyeing Longboat’s coast Some say the plan for a pair of Longboat casino boats is a win, but others believe the town will lose its shirt at the poker table.

A giant “cha-ching” sound echoed through Longboat Key Town Commission Chambers earlier this week when commissioners heard the town received a letter of application from the Calusa Indian Tribe to anchor a casino boat to the Islander Club groins.

The boat would be the first of a “Calusas to Condominiums” casino theme that the tribe hopes to unveil throughout the state.

Rumors circulated during the

District 3 election that recently re-elected Vice Mayor David Brenner, who lives at the Islander Club and once chaired the board of an Atlantic City casino, would bring gambling to the island.

But insiders say that wasn’t how the plan came about.

Instead, a resident suggested the idea of a casino boat shaped in the image of the iconic “long boat” for which the Key is named.

The suggestion was made during a mid-Key community planning

exercise last summer during which University of Las Vegas freshmen, under the supervision of tourism-and-recreation Professor Dr. Daniel Bling, interviewed stakeholders about ideas for the central part of the island.

Stakeholders then discussed the

SEE NEW CASINOS / 4A

INDEX Bridge Bites....... 14B Briefs....................8A

Classifieds ........ 16B Cops Corner....... 14A

Crossword.......... 15B Opinion.............. 12A

Real Estate.......... 2B Weather............. 15B

Vol. 34, No. 35 | Three sections YourObserver.com

2A

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

casting call

SUNDAY, APRIL 1, 2012

by Mallory Gnaegy | Community Editor

Will the real housewives please stand up?

The housewives of Longboat Key will not be flipping tables, detailing their lip injections or throwing extravagant 200-person birthday parties for toddlers in front of 3.7 million viewers like past “Real Housewives” cast members — they’re much too classy. But there might be a little gossiping on the show; but you didn’t hear that from us.

Bourgeois women of some of the most affluent communities in the nation have already been filmed in Orange County, Calif.; New York City; Atlanta; New Jersey; Beverly Hills; and Miami. On April 1, the sixth installation, “The Real Housewives of Longboat Key,” is hosting a casting call for its final members. So far, four lucky Longboat ladies have been selected for the show that is already shaping up to be a north end versus south end showdown. Television insiders say the show’s producers are already working on potential story lines that could include a blowup at the nail salon, an argument over what kind of wine to serve at a benefit dinner and a debate about which stretch of the beach is really the best for doing morning yoga.

“I’ve been trying so hard to keep it a secret,” says Wendy Feinstein, a south ender and one of the first women cast. “We had to sign a billion-page contract, so I don’t know who would have told.” She assumes it was one of the north-enders.

Executive producers have been casting under-the-radar for the past two months to find cast members for the four months of filming, set to start in the fall “when all the drama usually starts happening.” The Longboat Key spinoff marks the first time the show will have an open casting. According to one TV executive, “There were

just too many potential reality show stars on the Key. We didn’t want to leave anyone out.”

“When I was approached, I thought, sure! What plane do I need to get on and when?” says north-ender Lillian Sands.

Sands enjoys hosting fully catered, fullbar and full-service valet parties and book club meetings at her private beach-access home on the Gulf of Mexico.

North-ender Marcia Gutridge says she’s been meeting with producers for weeks trying to work out a filming schedule.

“I don’t know when they will find time to film,” says Gutridge. “I workout and play tennis every morning from 8 a.m. until the early afternoon.”

South-ender Carol Brualdi was unfamiliar with the show but thought it would be a new experience. Between her nine grandchildren, Pilates and yoga classes, she is also extremely involved in the arts. She frequents the Sarasota Opera and Florida Studio Theatre.

“I go to so many galas that I have to keep black-tie formal wear on-hand at all times,” Brualdi says. “Sure, I work out, but I’d rather spend my time in cultured activities than on the tennis courts all morning like other women on Longboat Key.” It seems the producers will have their hands full trying to balance the women’s workouts, formal events, exotic vacations and the charity function planning meetings for the many events they chair.

“I think it will be a good promotion for Longboat Key,” says Sands. “We really aren’t the long-nosed snobs people think we are.”

Interested reality show stars can call Mallory Gnaegy at 366-3468, Ext. 360 for more information.

SEE HOUSEWIVES / PAGE 4A

Let’sTalk Talk Let’s Building Remodeling

By RUSTY CHINNIS Longboat Key Florida Licensed General Contractor 30 Years of Experience

After Theone Contract is learned Signedover If there's thing I've

the thirty years I've been building Longboat it's the amount of detail goes into Now that on your plans andKey, specifications are finalized andthat the contract even the simplest project.

Managing a project to make the has been signed with the Contractor, what should clients expect?sure Once and the all contractor subcontractors the information thedesigner, project isclient, permitted beginshave preparation at the site. they need is critical to the success of the project.

Photographing the residence prior to commencement establishes a bench mark documenting the condition of the project.

If you're considering a remodeling project,Photographs there are also someshow verythe location of allthings furniture, other personal objects that will important that wall you'llhangings need toand consider and critical decisions beyou'll returned proper place upon completion of the project. needtototheir make before moving forward. Follow us as we cover topics likeany cost versusprocedures value, picking a design professional, getting Are there special that should be put in place before the and evaluating recommendations for contractors, understanding actual demolition begins? Dust and floor protection are critical to shield plans, reading We'll help you understand the areas thatand are not part ofspecifications. the construction project. importance of making sure the specifications dovetail with project How can a homeowner who is not in residence stay in touch with the plans and your expectations. Other critical issues like insurance, progress theirworkers project? compensation Homeowners should weeklyby updates with permits,ofand (oftenexpect overlooked clients) progress photos taken at the job site.

In addition they should have clear will be covered in detail here and in-depth on our Web site. and dependable lines of communication with their contractor.

We'll help you understand why decisions you willteam make up front How Important is Accessibility?

The construction should be will determineat the quality and longevity thequestions. finished Homeowners product. Now, accessible all times to address concernsofand more than ever, it's critical that homeowners verify the experience should be updated regularly with changes that require their approval. and financial stability they of their contractor and to thethereliability When the job is finished, should return home realizationofofthe subcontractors they'll employ on their project. their vision.

72135

RC CGC057190 CGC057190

Follow Online: www.rustychinnis.com/blog Follow Online: www.rustychinnis.com/blog Next Topic: Costis Versus Value Completed Next Topic: After the Project Questions: rusty@rustychinnis.com Questions: rusty@rustychinnis.com Phone: 941.383.2900 Phone: 941.383.2900

Mallory Gnaegy

North-enders Lillian Sands and Marcia Gutridge with south-enders Wendy Feinstein and Carol Brualdi are preparing for four months of filming “The Real Housewives of Longboat Key.” The show will air April 1, 2013.

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Television producers prepare for filming on the island.

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

SUNDAY, APRIL 1, 2012

clear direction

by Robin Hartill | City Editor

Commission launches town manager challenge The commission will seek an interim interim town manager as interim Town Manager David Bullock competes against other candidates for the permanent town manager position.

The Longboat Key Town Commission reached consensus to take on a nationwide search for a permanent town manager.

David Bullock, who took on the role of interim town manager Nov. 1, is still considered the leading candidate for the town commission. But, for the selection process to be fair, the commission gave the town attorney direction for a streamlined, fivestep approach to the search.

First, establish a committee to establish subcommittees for each remaining step of the process. Then, appoint an interim interim town manager for short-term leadership. The next step is the easy part: Drum up enthusiasm from qualified candidates about what the job entails by sending them information packets that include an executive summary of the past five years’ worth of firefighter contract negotiations, DVDs of all 29 Longboat Key Club and Resort public hearings and a preview pamphlet of the upcoming zoning code review.

Next, set up a hotline to solicit feedback from residents about how management searches typically work in the private sector.

The, narrow the pool to 10 qual-

PAID PARKING

Dora Walters

Interim Town Manager Dave Bullock has been preparing extensively for “America’s Next Town Manager.” ified applicants for a special “America’s Next Town Manager” challenge to determine the man (or woman) for the job.

The town attorney appeared perplexed by the commission’s instruction to appoint an interim interim town manager at an April 1 meeting.

“Does anyone have Terry Lewis’ number?” he asked.

Lewis, whose latest man-

agement gig has taken him to the Sarasota City Commission Chambers, declined the potential offer through a spokeswoman, who said that he is already on retainer to lead the next three Sarasota County municipalities that decide to fire their managers.

Although it’s unclear what direction the town will head in in the interim, the commission

made it clear that candidates for the position will face tough competition. Challenges will likely test candidates’ strength, requiring them to lift the town’s 14,028-page Comprehensive Beach Management Plan; a spelling quiz that asks candidates to spell “writ of certiorari”; and an endurance challenge, in which remaining candidates will fight to be the last person still awake at the end of a Planning & Zoning Board discussion of Publix’s parking lot.

Like the town attorney, Bullock appeared confused by the commission’s direction, but he continues to follow a strict training regiment: He’s at Town Hall by 7:30 a.m. every morning and is meeting with Key citizens to generate feedback about how to approach the challenge. He keeps a list of the citizens with whom he has met. By now, that list includes the names of 4,376 people, four loggerhead sea turtles and three dogs who want access to the beach.

While candidates train for the permanent position, residents have already worried about the interim interim position. Many have pointed out that in businesses, interim interim leadership positions usually become interim.

SEE SEARCH / PAGE 4A

by Observer Staff

Parking meters installed on Circle St. Armands Circle is now home to Sarasota’s failed parking meters.

Photos by Mallory Gnaegy

A city of Sarasota worker installs the first parking meter on the Circle Monday morning.

Visitors to St. Armands Circle this week may have noticed a change. The city of Sarasota began installing parking meters at one of the medians on the Circle.

After 459 meters in downtown Sarasota were removed this week, the St. Armands Business Improvement District voted to buy the meters from the city.

The city paid $510,000 for the meters, and the BID purchased them for $200,000.

The BID hopes to use the money from the new St. Armands Circle parking meter program to fund a parking garage to be built adjacent to the Circle.

“You can’t have too many open parking spots,” said one BID board member.

Parking has been a main concern for Circle merchants in recent months.

The BID is now looking for

Mallory Gnaegy

merchants to participate in the Circle Parking Ambassadors Program who can help show tourists how the parking meters work.

Cost for the meters is 50 cents per hour — a 50% decrease than the Sarasota price.

“The price was right,” said the BID board member.

SEE METERS / PAGE 4A

IN OTHER TRAFFIC NEWS ...

After a north-end planning charrette revealed that Longbeach Village residents would be interested in a traffic light at Broadway and Gulf of Mexico Drive, the Florida Department of Transportation installed a temporary traffic light at the intersection Tuesday morning. Ticket fines for not yielding to the light will be $400 for a first offense; $1,000 for a second offense.

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NEWSBRIEFS

+ Town takes action after raccoon rampage Town officials say a recent incident underscores the need to address its rampant raccoon population. Turtle Watch volunteers witnessed a raccoon raid a turtle nest, possibly making away with two eggs. Longboat Key police, with backup units from Sarasota and Manatee counties, scoured the approximately 12-mile length of the Key for the rogue raccoon but were unable to find the critter. Wildlife officials have refused to get involved when raccoons have bitten humans, citing their policy of only becoming involved with animal-control issues if an animal is threatened. However, the agency’s policy states that protection extends to turtle eggs.

But some witnesses told police that the animal that ravaged the nest was not a raccoon but rather a cat that belongs to a resident who plans to petition the commission for feline beach access.

+ Two blocks of GMD to close for construction The 2300 through 2500 blocks of Gulf of Mexico Drive will close for the month of April in order to allow for Publix’s expedited construction schedule. To cope with the inconvenience, town officials have devised two alternative routes for residents: Those who find themselves to the south of the 2300 block of GMD can head toward the John Ringling Bridge, travel north on U.S. 41, west on Cortez Road, through Bradenton Beach and onto the north end. Those to the north of the 2500 block can do the reverse. Residents in the impacted two blocks will have their choice of which side on which they wish to park. The town is also exploring other options of transportation, including opening up the Bay Isles gates to allow a ferry to shuttle residents from the site of the historic former Corey’s Landing dock to the mainland and back — a concept the Bay Isles Master Association has enthusiastically embraced.

+ Wireless study endorses 200-foot tower The firm conducting the town’s wireless communications study has concluded that the only solution to the town’s wireless communication woes is a 200-foot cellular tower. The conclusive results were accepted by the Longboat Key Planning & Zoning Board as factual and forwarded to the Longboat Key Town Commission for implementation.

A town official said that the study’s conclusive findings would likely end debate on the matter once and for all.

SEE BRIEFS / PAGE 4A

4A

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

SUNDAY, APRIL 1, 2012

OUR TOWN >> Continued from Page 1A Oh, how we hope you made it to this page. Happy April Fools’ Day! To be clear: Every story that appears on this page and pages 1-3 are not true. They were written, some with much appreciated participation from Key residents, in the hopes of adding some chuckle to your weekly read. They all are part of the Longboat Observer’s annual April Fools’ edition.

CASINOS / FROM PAGE 1A ideas during a mid-Key planning charrette. The tribe, which has sought to increase its gaming interests in the state, seized on the idea and submitted an application to town staff.

However, noted in the application was a section from town codes on permitted uses within a Planned Unit Development (PUD). A town staff member said upon close reading of that page someone apparently doctored the page and added “and casinos” to the list of permitted uses.

Two commissioners said they have received emails from constituents who wrote that they thought, if monitored properly, a casino would help rekindle Longboat Key’s flagging tourism. Another commissioner cited the vital funds that casinos could add to town coffers.

An Islander Club resident expressed strong opposition to the application, telling commissioners in his letter the casino “would do nothing but attract riffraff people from the mainland and cause endless traffic jams.” The

letter writer said “parking would be a nightmare.”

The application suggests the Calusas are in discussions with Publix Super Markets to build a two-story parking garage and would offer its casino patrons free shuttle service to and from the casino boat.

Casino developers made several concessions that they said would benefit the town: They agreed that the boat’s flashing lights would have low-wattage bulbs to avoid disorienting nesting turtles and to create a vegetation buffer between the boats and a sea grape area that helps to shield lights from sea turtles.

Some Islander Club residents told the Longboat Observer that the plan was a win for the condominium and promised to hold a “Welcome Back Snowbirds Casino Night” if approved. However, a group of residents has formed the Islander Club Property Owners Coalition (ICPOC) and plan to file a petition for a writ of certiorari in the 12th Judicial Circuit Court.

H E C A F R A I L I M A AF NOW OPEN

N. Blvd. of the Presidents & John Ringling Blvd. on ST. ARMANDS CIRCLE

NUDIST COLONY / FROM PAGE 1A ment, we were all going to be stripped of everything on our backs anyway.”

“The Colony has always been a top draw to bring people to Longboat Key,” Klauber added. “Can you imagine what this will do for Longboat when our sign out front reads ‘The Nudist Colony?’”

Jay Yablon, president of the Colony Association, could not be reached before deadline.

On April 1, representatives of NudistFLA LLC are expected to begin working with town planning staff to apply for permits for the necessary town approvals for renovations.

At the same time, NudistFLA representatives have sent letters to all Colony unit owners inviting them to spend a clothing-free week at one of their resorts “to experience the wonderful sensations we have created” in Pasco County. The letter said the NudistFLA colonies’ motto is: “Shirt, shoes … no service.”

+ This issue is in good taste For this issue, the Longboat Observer has teamed up with an area company to test one of its newest line of products: edible ink and paper. Unlike previously released edible paper, which is more like dissolving Styrofoam, the company’s new product looks and feels like actual paper — and tastes great. Throughout this issue, all red ink will taste like strawberries. The company hopes to market the product to dessert companies who could use it to top cake and pastries — or companies looking to jazz up their annual reports. Please send your reviews of our new edible paper to Mallory Gnaegy at mgnaegy@yourobserver.com.

+ Volunteer drivers needed To combat rising printing costs, the Longboat Observer is asking for help from its readers. To cut down on costs, we are looking for volunteer delivery drivers who are available between the hours of 7 and 11 a.m. Wednesdays. The only stipulation is that each driver must drive a red car (in Observer red, please) and be willing to have your car sport an Observer wrap promoting the paper at all times. Convertibles are preferred for ease in tossing papers. Interested drivers should meet at noon April 1, at the Longboat Observer office, 5570 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

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bserver O

LONGBOAT

You. Your neighbors. Your neighborhood.

NEWS

OUR TOWN

INSIDE

DIVERSIONS

Every night is a movie night for SFF director Tom Hall.

INSIDE

Longboat Library honors its lifetime members. 20A

open options

Thursday, MARCH 29, 2012

Memories begin where the land ends on Longboat Key. PAGE 1B.

by Robin Hartill | City Editor

Hilton looks to expand property Ocean Properties Vice President of Operations Andy Berger recently met with town officials to discuss a redevelopment of the property that could double its room count.

Harriet Grace Sokmensuer

+ Couple celebrates 50 years of marriage Longboaters Larry and Carol English celebrated their 50th anniversary with friends and family Friday, March 23, at the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.

The Longboat Key Hilton Beachfront Resort is considering a redevelopment plan that could nearly double its 102 rooms.

The Delray Beach-based Ocean Properties Ltd., which owns the Longboat Key Hilton, has not submitted an application to the town. However, the company’s vice president of operations, Andy Berger, and attorney John Patterson met

March 21 with Town Manager David Bullock, Town Attorney David Persson and Town Planner Steve Schield to discuss options for redeveloping the property.

“When the Hilton was first built in 1972, it was the place to go on Longboat Key,” Patterson said. “But time has passed, and it’s in need of redevelopment.”

Patterson, who also represents the Longboat Key Club

magnificent seven

and Resort, said that the redevelopment the Hilton is considering would be “substantial” and that it would involve gutting and remodeling the existing structures on the property, which is just under six acres, and a new swimming pool and landscaping. Although the Hilton has preliminary drawings, renderings have not been sub-

SEE HILTON / 6A

DIGITAL ALLIANCE

by Robin Hartill | City Editor

Brown gets second term Courtesy photo

+ Catch and release

Mayor Jim Brown and Vice Mayor David Brenner will each get another year in their posts after two unanimous votes by the Town Commission.

Curt and Pia Laguerre Ravn caught an injured blue heron after nine weeks of an ongoing effort with Save Our Seabirds. Save Our Seabirds received many calls about the male heron, who was badly injured with a large fishing hook in his side. Charlie, the name the Ravns gave him, frequented Whitney Beach daily. That’s where the Ravns attempted for weeks to lure him with sardines. Pia Ravn eventually caught him using scallops. Charlie was taken to Save Our Seabirds and underwent a two-hour operation to remove the hook and stitch him up. He is now healed and still visits Whitney Beach.

+ Seeking tutors and volunteers The Literacy Council of Sarasota is seeking tutors to help Sarasota adults improve their English. The group will provide training and support for new tutors.

Orientation will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 3. Two training sessions will be offered and one may take either session offered April 10 and April 17 or April 12 and April 19. Call 9550421 for information.

Robin Hartill

The Longboat Key Hilton Beachfront Resort currently has 102 rooms.

by The Observer Staff

Observer inks new partnership The Observer Group launches a unique partnership with This Week in Sarasota to create a larger digital footprint in the market.

Dora Walters

Town Clerk Trish Granger administers oaths of office Tuesday night to Vice Mayor David Brenner and Mayor Jim Brown.

Times may be a changing on Longboat Key, but not when it comes to the seating order for the Town Commission.

Mayor Jim Brown and Vice Mayor David Brenner retained their positions after commissioners voted unanimously to keep them in place at the Monday, March 26 statutory meeting.

The meeting came six days after

Brenner kept his District 3 seat by a margin of just 90 votes in a race against challenger Ray Rajewski.

The rest of the commission remained unchanged as well, with commissioners Lynn Larson, Hal Lenobel and Pat Zunz running unopposed. Brown and commissioners Jack Duncan and Phill Younger have another year left in their terms.

At Monday’s meeting, Brenner made a motion to nominate Brown for another year in the mayor’s chair, which Duncan seconded.

Duncan praised Brown for his leadership over the past 12 months.

“I feel very confident that you’ll lead us through some very

The Observer is made up of journalists who provide you with hyperlocal community coverage about you, your neighbors and your neighborhood.

But The Observer realized the one thing it was lacking in the new digital world of media was a good community contributor network, which is another way of saying a good group of bloggers.

One of the hot trends in the newspaper business is changing the culture in which the newsroom dictates what content its readers read and instead invites its readers to contribute content.

The Observer knew it needed to change its culture, and instead of reinventing the wheel, we decided to partner with a local

SEE PARTNERSHIP / 6A

SEE MAYOR / 6A

INDEX Bridge Bites....... 14B Briefs....................8A

Classifieds ........ 16B Cops Corner....... 14A

Crossword.......... 15B Opinion.............. 12A

Real Estate.......... 2B Weather............. 15B

Vol. 34, No. 35 | Three sections YourObserver.com

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

MAYOR / FROM 5A interesting issues in the next year,” he said.

With no other nominations on the floor, the commission voted 7-0 to give Brown another year as mayor. Then, when it was time to choose the vice mayor, Zunz nominated Brenner, a motion that Larson seconded.

The vote was also unanimous.

Brown and Brenner have led the commission through a multitude of changes in the past year, including the resignations of former Town Manager Bruce St. Denis and Planning, Zoning & Building Director Monica Simpson and the approval of a new Publix. The changing pace could gain momentum over the next year as the commission works toward addressing the town’s pension funds, beach-management plans, zoning code, Comprehensive Plan and wireless communications, to name a few issues, while also awaiting the outcome of legal battles over the Longboat Key Club and Resort’s $400 million Islandside redevelopment plan and the future of the Colony Beach & Tennis Resort.

Brown expressed gratitude for the opportunity for a second term, thanking fellow commissioners, along with Town Attorney David Persson.

“This year, I’ve received a lot of nice words from people saying that I had handled the situation well,” he said. “All I can say is, I didn’t

do it alone. I’ve had some great guidance from some great leadership.”

He also thanked Rajewski for running in the election, while also saying that he, himself, had never had to run against someone.

“We need more people to run for office to make the system work,” Brown said.

Brenner thanked his supporters for his second term but also had a message for those who didn’t vote for him.

“I want to reassure those who voted against me that I represent them as well,” he said.

The vice mayor expressed delight with the momentum created by plans for a new Publix, along with Longboat Key Hilton Beachfront Resort’s soon-to-be-announced plans. But he urged less divisiveness, saying that there is too much “us” and too few “we” along with an underlying feeling “that the north and south ends are on separate planets.”

“There’s nothing that says we can’t have a level of civility in our discourse without it being personal,” he said.

The commission broke a five-year tradition last year when it voted 5-2 to select Brown, who was vice mayor at the time, as mayor over Commissioner Robert Siekmann. Siekmann was in his third and final term as a commissioner, while Brown was then beginning his second term as a commissioner. Siekmann resigned less than a week later, and the commission appointed Zunz to his District 5 seat.

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

HILTON / FROM 5A mitted to the town.

“The addition of the rooms is important to taking the vision of the resort up to the next level,” Berger said.

If the resort files an application, it will seek additional units from a pool of 250 tourism units available Key-wide created in 2008 via a referenda vote. The resort submitted an application to the Planning & Zoning Department for 85 additional units in August 2009, which was the deadline the town set after voters approved the additional units. The deadline was created by the town at the time in the event that the town received multiple applications at once and needed additional time to review them before dispensing the units. However, the Hilton was the only property to submit an application, which was never completed.

“The economy is back, interest rates are favorable, and the general

PARTNERSHIP / FROM 5A website that has dominated in the community contributor market for the past six years — ThisWeekinSarasota.com.

ThisWeekinSarasota.com started as an online calendar featuring Sarasota’s local events and has evolved to include a strong group of community contributors that highlight what makes Sarasota a unique and diverse place to visit and live.

ThisWeekinSarasota.com is the brainchild of Matt Orr, a former real-estate agent with Michael Saunders & Co.-turned community connector and social media mogul.

“My parents were coming into town to visit, and there was no place to go to find out what to do to enter-

demand is up,” Patterson said as to why his client is proceeding now.

“The health of the hospitality industry is better than it was in 2010,” Berger said.

Patterson said that he does not believe the plan would require changes to the town’s zoning code or Comprehensive Plan. He declined to give a timetable for moving

forward and said that the company wants to see what is allowed before moving forward.

“It’s premature other than to say we want to redevelop,” Patterson said.

Ocean Properties Ltd. owns 37 properties in Florida and more than 100 in the United States and Canada.

Locally, in addition to the Longboat Key Hilton, it owns the Lido Beach Resort and the Holiday Inn Lido Key. Vice Mayor David Brenner, who also attended Wednesday’s conference, alluded to a possible Hilton redevelopment the night before when he won re-election to the District 3 seat, citing it as an example of change that is coming to Longboat Key. Brenner said that he has known Berger for approximately five years, when Brenner served on the Planning & Zoning Board. At the time, voters had not yet approved the tourism-unit referenda, but Hilton representatives had expressed a desire to move forward if voters approved the pool.

tain them,” says Orr. “So, I decided to give the community one place where all the events in Sarasota are held.”

Over the past six years, ThisWeekinSarasota.com’s community calendar grew along with community contributors, video content, email newsletters and social media, which was added to the site that now reaches more than 60,000 people each month.

By partnering with ThisWeekinSarasota.com, The Observer Group will be able to expand its reach beyond its current readership and demographic, but also reach the much younger demographic of ThisWeekinSarasota.com and viceversa for TWIS. ThisWeekinSarasota.com content will be posted on YourObserv-

er.com, and readers will have direct access to ThisWeekinSarasota.com.

And, in turn, Observer community news coverage will be posted on ThisWeekinSarasota.com, taking TWIS readers to YourObserver.com.

By cross-promoting the local coverage on both sites, we will generate more content for our readers and more eyeballs for our customers, making it a win-win for both companies.

“We are really excited about this partnership, because it helps us take another leap into the digital space,” says Matt Walsh, editor and CEO of The Observer Group. “Matt Orr is a very creative guy, and we think that combining our creative people with him and his creative people is going to result in something that the marketplace is really going to like.”

Robin Hartill

Ocean Properties Vice President of Operations Andy Berger with attorney John Patterson

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Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

under development

7A

by Robin Hartill | City Editor

Welfonder, Tallman make pitch to Colony Developers Manfred Welfonder and Jay Tallman have partnered in hopes of convincing Colony unit owners to support an alternative redevelopment plan.

The Colony Beach & Tennis Association Board eliminated the proposal submitted by Manfred Welfonder’s Longboat Key-based MW Development Group in August, but Welfonder believes he has the right vision for the Colony’s future.

Now Welfonder and Sarasota developer Jay Tallman, president of Ascentia Group LLC, have partnered in hopes of bringing that vision for the Colony to fruition. Tallman got his start in Longboat Key real-estate development in the early 1990s with the Vizcaya luxury condominiums and later joined forces with Thomas Brown to develop the 21-unit en Provence, which sold out in three weeks for a total $52 million, according to the Gulf Coast Business Review, an Observer newspaper. Tallman and Brown went on to develop the Beau Ciel in downtown Sarasota, Orchid Beach Club on Lido Beach and The Founders Club in Sarasota. Tallman served as a consultant for the Longboat Key Club and Resort’s $400 million Islandside redevelopment-and-expansion program.

Tallman told the Longboat Observer that he is now setting his sights on the Colony because of its significance to the Key and region.

“I would just love to have a hand in the ultimate recreation of the property,” Tallman said. “I think it’s had a wonderful, sto-

ried history, and I’d like to see it carry on the legacy that’s been involved with Longboat Key and at the same time redevelop it and be proud of it.”

The board has made clear its intent to proceed with Club Holdings LLC as its development partner. At least 75% of unit owners would have to approve of any plan to move forward. The vote was originally scheduled to take place at the annual unit owners meeting, scheduled for Monday, April 2, and Tuesday, April 3, but has been pushed back.

Welfonder said that he wants the board to consider putting at least three proposals out for unit owner consideration.

“The board has picked one proponent,” Welfonder said. “We, in addition to other people, don’t believe they will get the 75% of votes.”

Jay Yablon, president of the Association board, declined to comment on Welfonder’s assertion that the board was unlikely to get the necessary unit owner vote. But he described the problem with presenting multiple plans to unit owners.

“We had multiple people presenting multiple proposals that told us very clearly that they were not going to get involved in a process where their proposals were going to be put in the public domain or widely exposed to dozens of people,” Yablon said. “While

I understand the dramatic intrigue of an ‘American Idol’-style process, trying to do that at the Colony would have driven out a number of well-qualified proponents, to the detriment of our unit owners.”

The Association originally received 20 proposals from developers earlier this year.

MW Group’s proposal made it to the final six before being eliminated in August when the board whittled down the pool to four proposals; it ultimately chose Club Holdings’ proposal.

Unit owners received a detailed draft of Club Holdings’ proposal via email earlier this month. The specifics of the proposal were confidential, however, it includes three options for owners, including a buyout, one-eighth ownership or full ownership.

The draft plan includes 174 tower residences, located toward the back of the property near Gulf of Mexico Drive, along with 64 bungalow-style villas; the re-creation of 12 existing beachfront units; a welcome center with meeting, banquet and conference space located directly above; full-service spa; expansion of the former Monkey Bar, restaurant and beach pool and construction of a second adult pool; private beach cabanas; and a tennis and fitness club that would include nine courts, a stadium court, tennis retail shop and celebrity tennis plan.

MW Group, which recently purchased the domain colonyowners.com, posted the details of its proposal in February. Welfonder’s proposal overview also lists three options for unit owners: one-thirteenth co-ownership at no cost to current owners and prices ranging from $99,000 to $179,000; 100% fee simple interest at prices ranging from $331,000 to $686,000; or a buyout offer that would pay owners an average of $75,000 to $85,000 per unit. The plan calls for the construction of 160 hotel units built in one or two mid-rise buildings developed and/or managed by an international hotel company and owned by the developer; the construction of 180 vacation ownership units/residences; 10 private residence clubs; and a three-meal restaurant, pool bar, ballroom, meeting rooms, spa, Har-Tru tennis court and an agreement with nearby golf courses allowing for the use of the facilities.

Tallman said that many unit owners have expressed interest in MW Group’s proposal.

“We’ve heard from many unit owners who feel like MW’s proposal wasn’t adequately reviewed and would very much like there to be further consideration of that proposal,” he said. “It’s definitely a challenge but, frankly, looking at both proposals, I think ours has many merits relative to Club Holdings’ proposal from the perspective of the owners.”

Read Murf Klauber’s statement on Club Holdings’ proposal. www.YourObserver.com

SPIRITUAL JOURNEY

SWEET SERVICE

by Robin Hartill | City Editor

Gill forms new Sarasota congregation The former Longboat Island Chapel minister has formed the New Village Chapel in Sarasota with congregants.

Dora Walters

Volunteer Sue Wolverton flips pancakes at the Kiwanis Club of Longboat Key’s annual pancake breakfast Saturday, March 24, at St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church. For the story and more photos, see page 11A.

The Rev. Kenneth Gill is back at the pulpit again.

Gill, the former senior minister of Longboat Island Chapel, is the minister of a new church, the New Village Chapel, which is now holding services at 10 a.m. Sundays in the lobby of The Players Theatre in downtown Sarasota.

Gill said that the new congregation held its second public service Sunday and drew between 60 and 65 people. He describes the congregation as “nontraditional” and an “interspiritual community.”

“It’s for people of all faiths and it’s for people of no faiths,” he said.

Gill said that he quoted from the Christian gospel along with Hindu and Buddhist texts during Sunday’s sermon.

“My heritage is the Christian faith, but I try to draw on others,” he said. “My assumption is that whether people know it or not, everyone is on a spiritual path.”

Gill reached what both he and the chapel’s board described as a “separation agreement” in January.

The agreement came after a growing schism in the church that Gill has said he believes boiled down to the chapel’s identity as an interfaith church. Some board members had questioned Gill’s leadership and accused him of pushing his own agenda, with some members expressing concerns about his suggestion of replacing a large cross on a piece of stained glass with an interfaith symbol that included a smaller cross.

The board voted 9-2 in December to hold a congregational vote about whether to retain Gill, who retained an attorney to represent

him. On Jan. 10, the board voted to place Gill on paid administrative leave until a scheduled Jan. 29 congregational vote that would have required two-thirds of members in attendance to vote in favor of removing him. Chapel board members told the Longboat Observer at the time that the decision was made to keep peace within the congregation and that the board had to hire legal council after Gill retained an attorney.

Gill agreed to resign before the vote took place. However, after being placed on paid administrative leave, he and a group of congregants began meeting in private residences for Sunday services, from which the New Village Chapel grew. Gill said the “Village” in the name isn’t a reference to any particular location, although the congregation did consider meeting in the Cortez Village before securing its agreement with The Players Theatre.

Bobbie Banan, a 43-year chapel member who supported Gill throughout the conflicts at the chapel and has joined his new congregation, described the new church’s feeling as “casual but very reverent.”

“It feels good in the room,” she said.

Muriel Nunn, who has also joined the congregation, said that she likes Gill’s message.

“We believe in interfaith, and we believe that we all worship the same god,” she said. “We believe that we all need to be understanding of each others’ beliefs and reflective in each person’s spiritual journey.”

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

+ Publix buys two properties for $2.35 million

YourObserver.com

The Lakeland-based Publix Super Markets Inc. closed on two parcels adjacent to its Avenue of the Flowers Publix store for a total $2.35 million.

Local real-estate investor W. Howard Rooks sold the 1.52-acre Town Plaza II for $1.25 million to the Publix subsidiary Avenue of the Flowers Acquisition LLC. Bay Isles Enclave Acquisition LLC, whose registered agent is Joseph Wolfer, sold a 0.97acre property near Bay Isles Road to the subsidiary for $1.1 million. The properties have been under contract since last summer, when Publix filed an application to build a new Longboat Key store.

The most read stories online last week were: 1. “Fatal crash triggers safety discussion” (March 21) 2. “Brenner: We won” (March 21) 3. “PHOTO GALLERY: Presidential Candidate Jon Huntsman’s Daughters Speak at the Longboat Key Republican Club” (Aug. 21) 4. “IN THE KITCHEN WITH: Jim Herrington and Carol Camiener” (March 19) 5. “Longboaters choose District 3 commissioner today” (March 20)

TOP FIVE

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Longboat Key Fire Rescue will hold an open house from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, March 31, at the North Fire Station, 5490 Gulf of Mexico Drive. The event will feature an 11:30 a.m. vehicle-extraction demonstration using the jaws of life and tours of the fire house and Manatee County Bloodmobile in addition to food, drink and activities for all. For information, call 316-1944.

Meetings agendas

&

Town Commission Regular Meeting — 7 p.m. Monday, April 2



 Code Enforcement Board Meeting — 10 a.m. Monday, April 9

Goals & Objectives Workshop — 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 11



 Planning & Zoning Board Regular Meeting — 9 a.m. Tuesday, April 17  Town Commission Regular Workshop — 2 p.m. Thursday, April 19

company calling itself “National Sweepstakes” has been contacting people claiming they must make payments to the Internal Revenue Service in order to collect a $1 million lottery prize.

One elderly woman in Palm Beach County who was contacted wrote checks totaling $9,500 to an address in Washington. An insurance employee who learned of the situation contacted the state’s Division of Consumer Services.

O The town is looking into the timing of the stoplight at Gulf of Mexico Drive and Longboat Key Club Road after receiving at least two complaints from citizens. According to an email from Town Manager David Bullock, the town has considered adjusting the traffic

The town’s Vision Plan is now available at the town’s website, longboatkey.org. The plan was adopted last April after a subcommittee worked for months on revisions. The 21-page document will be reviewed semiannually.

Look as

+ Longboat firefighters to hold open house

+ Town looks into changing stoplight timing

+ Vision Plan now available on town’s website

signal timing with the expectation that it will result in better traffic flow. The town has an adjustment scheduled in the near future, which, according to Bullock’s email, could result in better flow but would be unlikely to cause dramatic improvements.

+ Lottery scam revealed

State Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater is warning consumers about a scam involving tax payments and lottery winnings.

The scheme, being run by a

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THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

BEACH MANAGEMENT

height limits

by Robin Hartill | City Editor

9A

by Robin Hartill | City Editor

County moves forward with Longboat Pass plan

Planning & Zoning Board puts Comp Plan policy on hold

Manatee County commissioners voted 6-1 to proceed with the plan recommended by Coastal Planning & Engineering that suggests three groins for the north end of the Key.

The Planning & Zoning Board moved forward with changes to its Comprehensive Plan with the exception of one policy that some say could impact a future cellular tower.

The Manatee Board of County Commissioners voted 6-1 Tuesday, March 27 to proceed with the design and permitting of the Longboat Pass Inlet Management Plan as recommended by Coastal Planning & Engineering Inc. The plan recommends a single terminal groin on Beer Can Island and two permeable adjustable groins, along with extending an Anna Maria Island groin and dredging a cut of the pass, as the solution to stopping the southward movement of Longboat Pass and controlling erosion.

The Longboat Key Town Commission heard the results of the study in a November workshop and directed town staff to proceed with the permitting process for the structures, which takes at least a year, but didn’t commit to building the structures. In February, town commissioners met with county commissioners for a joint work session during which the County Commission heard the findings of the study for the first time. As the result of the requests of some commissioners at that meeting, a CP&E representative presented four alternative models at Tuesday’s meeting, three of which showed scenarios in which no structures were placed on Longboat Key, resulting in the depletion sand within LBKof -fill2010 I four to six years.

Town Manager David Bullock spoke toLBK the-County and said 2010 -Commission I that sand placement alone wasn’t fiscally sound and asked for the county’s

The Planning & Zoning Board faced a looming tower once again at its March 27 meeting — specifically, a potential cellular tower.

The board voted 7-2 to move forward with changes to its Comprehensive Plan, which totals more than 200 pages, with the exception of Policy 1.1.10 to the town’s Comprehensive Plan, which states: “Height restrictions for each category shall not apply to antennae, enclosed mechanical equipment areas, chimneys, house of worship spires, or towers, but the town land development regulations shall limit their height.”

The word “tower” in the policy has been the focus of ongoing Comprehensive Plan discussions; attorneys for residents who oppose a tower had argued that the changes would be premature without the results of a wireless communications study that will be completed in April.

But board member Leonard Garner disagreed with arguments that changes were premature and made a motion to move changes to the Comprehensive Plan through in their entirety.

“We’re making no commitment whatsoever other than to say that if you want to find the height limits of a tower, go to the land-use regulations instead of the Comp Plan,” Garner said.

But attorney Michael Furen, who represents residents Gus Sclafani and Doreen Erickson, whose home is adjacent to the site of the proposed tower, argued against the

help in moving forward.

County commissioners worried about potential liabilities to the county if someone should get injured on the structures. Commissioner Carol Whitmore made a motion to move forward with the plan but added a condition that warning signage be added to reduce the county’s liability in case someone injured himself on the proposed structures.

Commissioner Joe McClash, who voted against moving forward with the plan, worried that the county hadn’t gotten enough input from people who use the beach and would be impacted by moving forward with the plan.

“Government seems to be doing things to people rather than for people,” he said.

Manatee County National Resources Director Charlie Hunsicker told the commission that it would likely be slightly more than a year before work could begin on the Key’s groins and 24 to 36 months before work can begin on the Anna Maria Island groin. The town has begun the Joint Coastal Permitting process (JCP) needed to move forward with the groins, although the commission hasn’t voted on whether they will proceed with the structures. The town is seeking flexibility in its permitting that would allow for the construction of the proposed structures at the same time or separately.

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“It’s bad policy to piecemeal a very important policy to this island,” he said. “It’s foolhardy to adopt anything today that implies a positive reaction to cellular towers.”

Board Chairwoman B.J. Webb said before taking the vote that she planned to vote against the motion because of the ongoing study.

“If we’re going to the time, trouble and expense of hiring a consultant, we might as well hear from them,” she said.

The board, instead, voted to approve a motion made by board member John Wild to move forward with the Comprehensive Plan changes with the exception of Policy 1.1.10.

Before addressing the Comprehensive Plan, the board heard from Scott Wierson, of TE Connectivity, who presented the wireless communications study findings about cellular coverage on the island. The results of the study that could impact Policy 1.1.10 — i.e. the company’s recommendations — will most likely be presented in April.

But Wierson summed up the data’s results, saying that it showed a 3.5-mile problem area on the north end and a smaller problem area on the south end.

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

by Mallory Gnaegy | Community Editor

just got QUiCK & eASY Featuring

Executive Director of Sarasota Bay Watch Andy Mele stands near the bay he hopes to protect in the coming years.

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In December, Andy Mele became the executive director of Sarasota Bay Watch.

The nonprofit organization works to protect and restore Sarasota Bay’s ecosystem through volunteer participation and education for adults and children from Anna Maria down to Venice. The executive director is a paid position from a grant from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County.

“I hope to help take the organization to the next level to help it become more sustainable,” says Mele.

To achieve this goal, he hopes to garner increased donations, to establish more roots in the community and retain good faith, trust and credibility for the group.

Mele has an extensive environmental background. He has a master’s in environmental science from Bard College; he worked as the executive director for Hudson River Sloop Clearwater Inc.; and

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he has written a nonfiction book, “Polluting for Pleasure.” His most recent work for Clearwater, a regional environmental group, was similar to his work for Sarasota Bay Watch.

The first thing Mele did upon being hired for the position was host a strategic planning retreat.

“It went exactly as I had planned,” says Mele.

The group hopes to continue restoring absent species, such as scallops, like it has been doing with oyster restorations; to continue habitat restoration and enhancement; and initiate more environmental education. The group hopes to establish an environmental education center in the future.

“I think Sarasota Bay Watch has a tremendous amount of potential,” Mele says “I think it’s going to serve the community very well, indeed.”

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

SWEET SERVICE

11A

by Dora Walters | Senior Editor

Kiwanis Club serves up smiles at pancake breakfast

Jack Brill and Martin Bobzien serve breakfast.

Edith Barr Dunn, Ed Krepela and Linda Meisenbach

Photos by Dora Walters

The Kiwanis Club of Longboat Key did it again. For more than two decades, each spring the club feeds hundreds of residents and visitors at its annual pancake breakfast.

Held this year Saturday, March 24 at Stella Maris Hall at St. Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church, a line of people formed as soon as the doors opened at 7 a.m. But the hungry didn’t have to wait long to enjoy the syrupy goodness. Club President John Wild said new equipment, plus a lot of volunteers, kept lines moving at this year’s event.

With no numbers yet available, Wild said: “I think the turnout was as good as usual and maybe a bit better.” President-elect Jim Burmeister served as chairman of the breakfast.

Proceeds of the event will help fund the club’s operation and benefit the club’s foundation.

Antoinette Brill and Virginia Sanders

Sylvia Babineau presents the 50-50 winner, Marie DeLisi, with her winnings.

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LONGBOAT Observer

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THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

Observer opinion | our view LONGBOAT

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

Friedrich Hayek “Road to Serfdom,” 1944

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Election results send message Interpret the Longboat Key Town Commission election results however you wish.

Yes, it was close. The closest race in five years.

One thing you might easily say is Longboat Key voters apparently are almost MARGINS evenly split on their vision for the Key. OF VICTORY The winner, 2012 Brenner........1,211 Vice Mayor David Rajewski.......1,121 Brenner, presented Difference..........90 a vision of wanting 2010 to move forward Larson..........1,163 and rekindle the Rothenberg......928 visitor-tourism on Difference........235 the Key to the levels Lenobel........1,125 it was 10 to 20 years Younger...........927 ago — the historiDifference........198 cal levels.

2009 His opponent, Jaleski.............835 Clair................719 Ray Rajewski, Difference........116 presented a more 2008 moderate vision, Siekman.......1,315 one that emphaJaleski.............367 sized Longboat Key Difference........948 being primarily a 2007 residential retireSiekman.......1,484 ment community.

Leavitt..........1,283 The majority Difference........201 — however narrow it was — preferred Brenner’s vision.

In truth, there was not a great distance between the two candidates’ visions. But the way Rajewski and his supporters cast Brenner, a newcomer to Longboat Key probably would have concluded Brenner favored a dramatic change and increase in commercial enterprises here.

Brenner himself said it many times that is not his position. But that didn’t matter. We all know the American political tradition and script: You have to go negative. You have to demonize your opponent. Whatever it takes — even if it meant suggesting that because he was a director of a small gaming company based in Atlantic City, voters should be wary that Brenner would try to bring casino gambling to Longboat Key! It was a preposterous stretch.

(BTW, just for the record, if you haven’t caught on, that story about the Calusa Indian Tribe wanting to anchor a casino boat to the Islander Club’s groins is one of our April Fool’s spoofs.)

To be sure, Brenner and his fellow commissioners are most likely to take this spring’s election results quite seriously.

They will be mindful of the balance that voters, taxpayers and property owners want on Longboat Key. If we had to paint that vision, it would be this: Longboaters desperately want to see a redeveloped and revitalized Colony Beach & Tennis Resort — one that serves as it did before, as the gateway and launch pad for future Longboaters. They will be happy to have a new Publix and a reconfigured town center shopping district. They would like to see a miracle at Whitney Beach Plaza, one that fits in with the flavor of the Key. They would embrace an expanded Longboat Key Hilton Beachfront Resort, so long as it, too, fits the flavor of the town. They would be happy to see an expanded and updated

THE WORDS HEARD ’ROUND THE WORLD Pictures are indeed worth 1,000 words.

This photo followed the moment Monday in Seoul, South Korea, when, while seated and with their microphones still audible, Barack Obama leaned into Russian President Dmitry Medvedev for a brief exchange that went like this: BO: “On all these issues, but particularly missile defense, this can be solved, Weser Kur but it’s important for him to Barack Obama and Dmitry Medvedev at the Seoul give me space.” nuclear talks.

DM: “Yeah, I understand. effect: “Give me time. I have to make I understand your message false promises to the American people about space. Space for you … ” until the election. After that, I can give BO: “This is my last election. After my Vladimir Putin more of what he and election I have more flexibility.”

Russia want.”

DM: “I understand. I will transmit this If you are not shaken enough by information to Vladimir and I stand with Obama’s words to be outraged, perhaps it you.” might be helpful to remember: Russia remains our adversary. On nearly Americans — except for the 40%-ers every issue, it is working against our who will vote Democratic no matter what position in the world and what we stand — need no other convincing than the for. Perhaps all anyone needs to know words above that Barack Obama has not earned, nor deserves, the right to serve as about Vladimir Putin and Russia is this: Russia is arming Iran. president another four years.

Americans should be sickened by With those whispered words, he has the four years we have endured of demonstrated — once again — his backing down, retreating, appeasing and duplicitousness with the American acquiescing in the world. Do not forget people.

There is no other translation of Obama’s this picture of these two conspirators of deceit. words than his saying to Medvedev, in

Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant and Pub. They would like a new recreation/community center at Bayfront Park — one that’s modest, not too elaborate.

And last, but certainly not least, the majority of Key residents and taxpayers — as indicated by Brenner’s victory — would embrace a renovated and expanded Longboat Key Club and Resort, albeit with some trepidation. Forty-eight percent of those who voted in last week’s election probably still want some reassurance that when the Key Club’s project is completed, the place they now love will be a place they still love.

That it fits.

That’s the message voters expressed in last week’s election. We’re confident the commissioners get it and got it.

+ Laffer curve: 10-year recovery One of our favorite annual visitors to this area every winter is Arthur Laffer, the Arthur Laffer of “Laffer Curve” and supplyside economics fame. A longtime friend of Roland and Kelly Caldwell, the father-son team that owns Caldwell Trust in Sarasota and Venice, Laffer, 71, generously offers an hour of his time to visit with the media when he is here. He’s a hoot — in large part because he tells it like it is and doesn’t care what the ramifications might be. A sampling:

THE CASTAWAY by Jorge Blanco

• On energy independence: “How stupid is that?” Laffer says. “We should buy (Mideast) oil and use it. Saying we should have energy independence is like saying Minnesota should have banana independence.”

• On whether stimulus spending helps the economy: ““Good economics works just as well in a two-person world as it does in a 300 million-person world,” Laffer says.

“Say you have Farmer A and Farmer B. If Farmer A is given a benefit by the government, who do you think is going to pay for it? You can’t bail someone out of trouble without getting someone else into trouble.”

• On Obamacare: Laffer says he likes the way former U.S. Sen. Phil Gramm of Texas explains Obamacare. Invoking slow, Texas drawl, Laffer says: “If I could buy my groceries the way buy my health-care with Obamacare — five cents on the $1, I’d eat real well and so would my dog.”

In other words, it doesn’t add up.

• On the future for the U.S. economy: Laffer expects Barack Obama to lose. “All elections are a referendum on the incumbent,” he says. “There is nothing personally wrong with Obama. It’s just that he has been wrong on every single thing he has done (with the economy).” Laffer sees a shift back to lower taxes, lower regulation, more free trade. But fiscal and economic recovery for the U.S. is going to take a decade.

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

LETTERS TO THEEDITOR

CIRCLE PROJECT

by Kurt Schultheis | City Editor

St. Armands focuses on parking garage Now that a median project has been completed, St. Armands Circle officials are now focused on burying power lines and building a parking garage on the Circle.

Dear Editor: Ray Rajewski and the home-owning voters of Longboat Key sent a message to the commissioners. If Ray Rajewski had two more weeks or was running against any other commissioner, Ray would have won. Ray is just a really nice guy, someone we want to represent the homeowners’ values of Longboat Key. We found out that the Longboat Key Club wasn’t falling down or was going to fail.

The club just received a AAA Four-Diamond Resort Award, such a high rating, and does not need the rezoning to “save” the club and reverse the collapse of Longboat Key. I guess we all were all lied to, and you know who they are, remember that in the next election. This was a fun election. I just wish that the homeowners, instead of the developers, had won.

Just 90 votes, that is why your vote is so important. The next election is coming soon. See you all at the polls.

Bob Craft Longboat Key To send in your letters, please email them to jluck@yourobserver.com or mail them to the Longboat Observer, 5570 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228. The Longboat Observer gives priority to letters of local interest and about local issues. The Observer will print all letters to the editor if it feels they are of general interest, but only if the letter is signed and the author’s street address and phone number are given. The editor reserves the right to condense letters.

Both the St. Armands Business Improvement District and the St. Armands Landowners Merchants and Residents Association are ready to work together to bring a parking garage to St. Armands Circle.

At a March 22 LMR meeting at City Hall, those in attendance set the stage for future discussions for a new garage, the burying of power lines and a new welcome sign for St. Armands Key. The three projects, Circle officials say, are the last major capital improvement projects for the Circle.

But BID Chairman Marty Rappaport says a multistory parking garage next to the Circle fire station with complimentary valet service is the priority.

“It’s so busy right now on the Circle, we are actually losing customers because they can’t find a parking spot and decide to just keep moving,” Rappaport said.

Rappaport urged Sarasota Vice Mayor Terry Turn-

er, who attended the LMR meeting, to reconsider building the Circle garage before a State Street garage, which is slated to be built in the first quarter of 2015, per an agreement with Pineapple Square. Pineapple Square gave the lot back to the city on the condition that a garage is built in its place within four years.

“Parking on the Circle has had a shortage for five years while parking downtown is more geared toward the future,” Rappaport said. “As a last resort, is there any way we could build two garages at the same time?”

Turner said there’s no way a Circle garage could be built first or along with the other garage.

Although the city has pegged a Circle garage as a future goal and objective for upcoming budget discussions, Pineapple Square officials have told Deputy City Manager Marlon Brown it will not allow the city to get out of its obligation to build the garage by

2015.

“I understand your concern,” said Turner, who explained that the State Street surface parking lot right now only hovers at a 20% usage rate and a new garage with more parking spaces would probably drop the garage’s usage rate to 7%. “I recommended delaying it, but there’s nothing we can do about it.”

The money earmarked for the State Street garage can’t be used to build a garage on the Circle.

The comments didn’t deter LMR attendees, who scheduled a more in-depth discussion on the feasibility of a Circle garage for its April 26 meeting.

Rappaport said he’s also been in contact with Congressman Vern Buchanan’s office to try and secure federal funds for burying power lines underground.

The BID will also discuss at its next meeting a concept to designate $5,000 toward a Ringling College of Art and Design contest that

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would attract students to design a new welcome sign for the Key. “St. Armands deserves a prestigious sign,” Rappaport said. “We think Ringling students could come up with something that looks great and is out-ofthe-box.”

Those in attendance raved about the Circle’s new medians and said the Circle’s new park-like atmosphere has attracted more shoppers to the area.

The $450,000 median project installed sidewalks along the Circle’s four medians, which were landscaped and include new benches.

“If we can get those power lines out and build a garage, what a statement that will make,” Rappaport said.

Both the DID and the LMR believe those final capital improvements will vault the Circle from a topfive destination shopping center to the No. 1 destination shopping center in the country.

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Shot in the dark 12:43 a.m. — 7100 block of GMD. Fireworks. Police warned five people shooting off bottle rockets and consuming alcoholic beverages.

March 16 Tag team 8:34 a.m. — 5400 block of GMD. Property Found. A town employee turned in an Ohio tag found at the intersection of Gulf of Mexico Drive, General Harris Street and Lyons Lane. Police were unable to locate the owner of the 2009 white Toyota to whom the tag is assigned.

Like father, like son 10:52 a.m. — 500 block of St. Judes Drive. Traffic Violation.

While conducting registration checks, police found that the driver’s license of the owner of a Dodge truck was suspended. The driver said that his father was the owner of the truck, but police found that the driver’s license was also suspended.

No common ground 1:35 p.m. — 4400 block of GMD. Larceny from Private Property. A condominium manager reported missing a desert rose plant that was planted to honor a resident who died recently.

The manager said that a small number of residents complained

Sign steal 2:04 p.m. — 600 block of Linley Street. Larceny From Private Property. A man reported that an unknown person stole a realestate sign and post from a property. He had already contacted code enforcement to confirm that the town hadn’t removed the sign.

March 17

Underage drinkers 12:38 p.m. — 100 block of N. Shore Road. Beverage Violation. Two underage females, one of whom gave police a fake date of birth, admitted to consuming Bud Light and said they were scared of getting in trouble after police received a report of a possible disturbance and underage drinking. The women received a notice to appear in court.

March 18

Suspended license 10:10 a.m. — 7300 block of GMD. Traffic Violation. While attempting to serve a man with a code-enforcement hearing notice, police learned that he had a suspended driver’s license. Police arrested him for driving with a suspended license.

Boat rescue 4 p.m. — Off the Key. Assist Other Agency. Police assisted

March 14 Roaming charges 5:18 p.m. — 500 block of Harbor Gate Way. Disturbance.

A man complained that his neighbors don’t pick up after their dogs and allow them to roam freely, which has resulted in the dogs running into his house when he has had his door open. Police met with the neighbor, who said that she always picks up after the dogs.

The woman said that her h o m e ow n e r s association has not allowed her to put up a fence for her dogs and she has tried to train them so that they wouldn’t enter neighbors’ yards but hasn’t been able to do so. Police warned the woman that town ordinances prohibit dogs from roaming freely and require owners to pick up after their dogs.

Coast Guard officers with a boat that was taking on water and helped tow it inside to a boat ramp.

Not-so-itsy, bitsy spider 8:45 p.m. — 5200 block of GMD. Traffic Violation. A man said that he passed a vehicle turning left by using the bike lane and grass right of way because a spider fell into his lap and scared him. He also admitted that he doesn’t have insurance. The man received citations for driving with a suspended license and no proof of insurance and a written warning for improper passing.

March 19 Bicycle crash 12:51 p.m. — 2600 block of GMD. Bicycle Accident. A woman reported that she was in an accident the day before when she attempted to cross the street and was hit by a bicyclist, who stopped to help and provide his contact information. The woman had injuries to her leg and was planning to go to a hospital. Police left a cell-phone message for the driver.

March 16 POOCH problem

March 21

10:21 p.m. — 6900 block of Poinsettia Avenue. Animal Nuisance. A woman reported

Spring fling 12:35 a.m. — 1200 block of GMD. Noise Disturbance. A security officer told police that several people refused to leave a condominium swimming pool after the 10 p.m. closing time and later

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Barking up the wrong Key 8:22 p.m. — 500 block of Yawl Lane. Animal Nuisance.

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— 6900 block of Poinsettia Avenue. Animal Nuisance. Police arrived to a residence that has been the subject of multiple complaints from neighbors about barking dogs.

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$899,000 Beautiful views from this turnkey furnished, Sunset Beach Condominium Turquoise blue waters and sunsets year around can be viewed from this 2 bedroom condominium.

The entire, corner location, condominium has been remodeled beautifully with stone tile flooring, two new bathrooms and a new kitchen. Great floor plan with a huge en suite master bedroom with walk-in closet and two additional closets in the master for extra storage.

When it came time to sell our Emerald Pointe North residence on Longboat Key, we turned to a person we consider to be a consummate professional. A number of years ago she sold our Penthouse at L'Ambiance, setting a record price at the time, with her innovative marketing plan and internet reach. Hannerle now has sold our Emerald Pointe North residence in only 6 weeks in this depressed economy at a price we were happy with. Hannerle Moore's performance speaks for itself.

Edward and Martha... L'Ambiance Penthouse and Emerald Pointe North Thank you for all your help and expertise. All the work you did on staging and photography prior to listing our beach front estate property paid off with a sale in only 11 days. We believe we priced it well with regards to the market, albeit less than the others, but then again, as you know the other 15 beachfront properties are still for sale and we are sold. It has been wonderful working with you.

The Schmidt Family...Longboat Key Beachfront Estate Home

MLS A3957661

$549,999 Spectacular, private, beachfront, European villa You can't see another neighbor from this 3 bedroom + den, Positano residence... just the white sand beach and the turquoise Gulf waters.

The stunning, 3343 sq. ft. villa has an enormous wrap terrace, private stairs to the beach and an additional private 1900 sq. ft. paver garden area. Only the finest materials have been used throughout.

We have a combined 70 years in the Real Estate business as a Broker and Realtor and never have we seen the professionalism that has been exhibited by Hannerle Moore. She has taken the marketing of our L‘Ambiance condominium to a new level.

Donna and Jim... L ‘Ambiance After unsuccessful experiences with other real estate agents Hannerle Moore was recommended to me by a friend. Her expertise and extraordinary investment in time, marketing and advertising gave me the results I was looking for... the successful sale of my beach front home.

Billy... Beach Front Longboat Key Home You will continue to be our only choice as a Realtor. Your expertise is unsurpassed when it comes to successfully selling property and you are perhaps the best kept secret in that regard on longboat Key. Bob and Jill... Positano

$3,950,000 This is a Boater’s paradise

Best price on the Bay front

with 196’ of deep-water seawall within one of the most prestigious communities on Longboat Key. MLS A3897813

Almost an acre with 131' on the Bay, this charming Spanish style home is set with gorgeous views of the Bay, Sister and Jewfish Keys. MLS A3949268

$979,000

$1,499,000

Hannerle Moore 2009 & 2010 Top Individual Producer for Michael Saunders & Company’s Longboat Key Offices

440 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228 PH 941.387.7300 FX 941.296.7722 HannerleMoore@michaelsaunders.com www.Hannerle.com M AY F A I R

International Realty

We had no doubt after meeting Hannerle that she should be the Realtor to sell our home; her expertise was clearly evident, her knowledge expansive and vast, and her attitude positive, sunny yet focused. Highly efficient and totally charming, her commitment was always evident, something the previous two realtors never managed to master, even when the market then dictated we should have easily found a buyer.

In this currently difficult market, Hannerle advised us wisely and attracted multiple viewings, and our buyer was found. The best Realtor is not always easy to find, but we feel lucky to have found Hannerle, and to have been in such professional hands..

Gaby and Ron... Longboat Key Waterfront

Go to www.Hannerle.com to see a video tour on every property

78494

MLS A3950796

16A

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

NEIGHBORS

MARY MITCHELL She has thousands of them.

They are the imaginative representations of clothes on hangers brought to life in a way that represents the romance a photo can’t capture.

“This one uses a No. 935 pencil on textured paper,” says Mary Mitchell, fashion illustrator, as she points to one of her hand-drawn illustrations of a model wearing a mink coat.

Her pencil drawing is meticulously detailed, revealing the garment down to each individual hair of the fur coat.

The illustration is inviting, as if the viewer could feel the model’s reaction of euphoric, cozy, I-have-to-have-this-fur-coatright-now bliss.

Mitchell has saved many of these drawings throughout the 30 years she spent as a professional fashion illustrator.

In 2009, when her friends from Omaha, Neb., Anne Marie Kenny and Mary Jochim, saw her hand-drawn representations of decades of fashion, they convinced Mitchell to have a showing. The ladies spoke to several venues, and Durham Museum of Omaha wanted to show 150 of Mitchell’s illustrations. The exhibit has been running since Jan. 27 and will continue through May 27. It will then transfer to the University of Nebraska.

When the idea for the exhibit was still being formulated, the group had the idea for Mitchell to create a book of her fashion drawings. Mitchell’s goal was to garner enough proceeds from the book sales to send

art students to the University of Nebraska on full-ride scholarships. She is donating 100% of the proceeds of her book, “Drawn to Fashion,” to this cause.

“I know what I went through, not having any money and wanting to (go to art school) — I feel so strongly about that,” she says.

Rewind to when Mitchell was a little girl drawing women in beautiful dresses. She decided she wanted to be an artist, an idea her father did not agree with but that her mother fully encouraged.

When Mitchell was 17 years old, her mother died, and her father told her he wouldn’t pay for art school. He told her she would instead attend secretarial school so she could keep him company. Mitchell was devastated.

That was until she discovered a small booklet, something her mother had left her — a savings account book. Unknowingly to Mitchell, her mother had been taking the change collected from the jukebox at her family’s candy shop in South Buffalo, N.Y. She had been stowing it away in a savings account for many years.

“It was enough to get me through art school,” Mitchell said. Now Mitchell wants to return the favor.

Because Mitchell needed someone to authenticate her talent, Jochim made a brochure including Mitchell’s work and her charitable goal and sent it to fashion designer

This fashion illustrator went from rags to designer garments.

Mallory Gnaegy

Mary Mitchell recently published a book that archives 30 years of her work as a fashion illustrator.

Oscar de la Renta. Mitchell had spent hours drawing de la Renta’s trademark evening gowns throughout the years.

At 12:30 p.m. Oct. 11, Mitchell received an unexpected phone call.

During the phone call with de la Renta, he told her: “You know, Mary, fashion illustration is a job that isn’t relevant anymore.”

It was a hard realization for Mitchell when fashion illustration took a backseat to photography in the late ’80s. The demand for the art declined,

but that didn’t stop Mitchell from becoming a prime fashion illustrator in Nebraska.

After four years working for Nebraska Clothing, she had secured enough clientele to work as a successful freelancer until 1989, until there wasn’t the same demand.

“It was very hard on me because I loved doing it,” she says.

“It wasn’t work, it was a joy.”

And it was an art de la Renta appreciates; he recently hired a fashion illustrator to design ads for his fragrance, Live in Love. He also wrote the for-

ward to Mitchell’s book after they spoke.

The book is dedicated to Mitchell’s mother. It reads: “To my mother, who clothed me in love and made my dream come true.”

With the book’s proceeds, Mitchell wants to pay it (one fashionable foot) forward at a time.

— Mallory Gnaegy

Five Things You Didn’t Know About Mitchell. www.YourObserver.com

meet Peter Schweizer Throw Them All Out:

Author of

How Politicians and Their Friends Get Rich off Insider Stock Tips, Land Deals and Cronyism that Would Send the Rest of Us to Prison!

76006

78281

Date: tuesday april 3 Place: South Gate community center

3145 Southgate Circle • Sarasota, FL time: 6pm cocktail reception • 7pm presentation & book signing coSt: $12 Register at www.13patriots.com or call 941-737-7743

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Longboat Observer

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

YourObserver.com

17A

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Friday, March 30 Friday Night Live — starts at 8 p.m. at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road. This musical service features several instrumentalists playing music by current composers. Free. Call 383-3428.

Saturday, March 31 Behind the Science Snorkeling — takes place from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Mote Marine Laboratory, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway. Visit Sarasota Bay’s seagrass beds and encounter animals that call it home. Mote will provide gear. Call 388-4441.

Sunday, April 1 Ski-A-Rees Performance — starts at 2 p.m. at the SkiA-Rees Stadium, 1602 Ken Thompson Parkway. See the area water-skiing performance group jump ramps and perform formations in their weekly show. Free. Call 3881666.

Saturday, April 7 26th Annual Run for the Turtles — begins at 7:30 a.m. at Siesta Key Public Beach, 948 Beach Road, Siesta Key. The 1-mile fun run or walk and 5K benefit sea turtle research and conservation. Registration begins at 6:30 a.m. The fun run/walk begins at 7:30 a.m., and the 5K begins at 8 a.m. Cost is $25 for adults through March 24; $30 for adults after March 24; $10 for children age 10 and younger through March 24; and $15 for children after March 24. Call Paula Clark at 388-4441; register at www.mote.org/turtlerun.

Sunday, April 8 Ski-A-Rees Performance — starts at 2 p.m. at the SkiA-Rees Stadium, 1602 Ken Thompson Parkway. See the area water-skiing performance group jump ramps and perform formations in their weekly show. Free. Call 3881666.

Tuesday, April 10 Longboat Key Democratic Club Luncheon Meeting — starts at 11:30 a.m. at the Harbourside Dining Room at Harbourside Golf Course. Dr. Susan MacManus, professor of political science at the University of South Florida, will be speaking about, “Election 2012 — Key Constituencies, Issues, Uncertainties.” Cost is $23. Call Jane Albaum at 362-0520.

Gerry Gardner Lecture: ‘Along for the Ride to Where?’ — takes place from 4:15 to 5:30 p.m. at All Angels by the Sea Episcopal Church, 563 Bay Isles Road. Gardner is an experienced speaker with a focus on helping people find freedom from daily life struggles, painful past experiences and troubled relationships. Free. Call 383-5259.

Thursday, April 12 Myakka Exhibition Opening Reception — takes place from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Longboat Key Center for the Arts, a Division of Ringling College of Art and Design, 6860 Longboat Drive S. Myakka River State Park contains 57 miles of wetlands, prairies and woodlands, and regional artists have come together creating artwork inspired by this Florida destination. A portion of the sales generated from the exhibition will benefit Myakka River State Park.

This exhibit runs through May 24. Free. Call 383-2345.

I make sure the water is clean, for all of us.

I am Mosaic.

As we mine the phosphate needed to help grow the world’s food, it’s no coincidence that we preserve the water quality of nearby creeks and rivers. As an environmental specialist, I’m part of a team that monitors these bodies of water to ensure that the water quality

Looking Ahead

is sustained or even enhanced. Mosaic takes great

Easter Egg Hunt at Mar Vista

care to meet Florida’s clean water standards. Because

Children should bring their own basket to participate in the annual Mar Vista Easter Egg Hunt.

When: Takes place from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 7 Where: Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant and Pub, 760 Broadway St. Cost: Free Info: Call 383-2391

stewardship is an integral part of what we do.

And I see to it that the job is done right.

®

77312

www.mosaicfla.com

18A

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

ExcEptional REal EstatE oppoRtunitiEs

BEACH HARBOR CLuB $474,900 over 2500sF remodeled 3BD, 3Ba w/amazing bay views. private beach access across the street. ian addy & Gail Wittig 941.387.0100

sANCTuARY $1,225,000 Direct 3BD beachfront residence in desirable building ii located behind the gates of the longboat Key club. ian addy & Gail Wittig 941.387.0100

LONGBOAT KEY CLuB & REsORT $229,900- $849,000 BEAu CIEL - 990 BLvD. Of THE ARTs - #904 $1,299,000 this extraordinary resort is a condominium hotel offering buyers 3100 sq. ft. of both Bay & city views. Gorgeous! attractive rental opportunities with four distinctive floor plans. linda a. page 941.504.0123 ian addy & Gail Wittig 941.387.0100

GRAND BAY CAYMAN $1,399,000 LONGBOAT KEY TOWNHOME $589,000 BIRD KEY GARDEN $695,000 $949,900 suNsET BEACH Brand new 2BD/3Ba unit. top of the line Kitchen and Baths. island living with boating water, dock & beach access. Gulf Views from every room. 2BD, 2Ba Endless possibilities in this tropical retreat. the layfield nink team 941.914.2805 audrey singer audrey singer 941.350.2588 941.350.2588 2 balconies 2 parking spaces.

Jenine & Bruce Meyer 941.266.8303

RITz-CARLTON TOWER REsIDENCE 601 $1,999,000 RITz-CARLTON HOTEL PENTHOusE 1601 $3,675,000 PLAYERs CLuB #D104 $989,000 BAY BEACH 10006 45TH AvE WEsT $2,975,000 Most popular sW corner with terrific views of the Bay spacious floorplan. stunning views of Gulf, Bay & city Gulf Beach & sunset Views 3BD, 3Ba one acre sarasota Bay Front Gated Estate Ritz-carlton office 941.364.8884 Ritz-carlton office 941.725.0227 941.364.8884 Mel & Jan Goldsmith 941.356.6673 anne Mitchell

$275, 000 sEA GATE CLuB #13B $739,000 sANDRINGHAM IN THE MEADOWs $579,000 vILLA DI LANCIA 2185 GuLf Of MExICO DR, LONGBOAT KEY $2,475,000 sPANIsH MAIN Fully updated 2BD, 2Ba Freestanding Villa in Gulf Beach & sunset Views 2BD, 2Ba Exception views, 3BD, 3Ba suites, lap pool amazing 4+Bdrm Gulf Front penthouse Mel & Jan Goldsmith 941.356.6673 Judy & Bill nimz 941.374.0196 anne Mitchell 941.725.0227 Boating community. pam charron 941.993.3388

COuNTRY CLuB sHOREs - GOLf LINKs $819,000 updated 3BD, 2Ba home on the sunny south side of the street. open floor plan w/pavered pool deck and dock. light and Bright!

Janis collier 941.313.1212

BEACH PLACE -1145 GuLf Of MExICO DR. uNIT 203 $675,000 BAYfRONT, WHITfIELD EsTATEs

$829,000 Fabulous views & excellent boating water Direct Gulf Front updated 2BD, 2Ba condo w/2 parking spots. Fabulous amenities & Rental possibilities. 4/5 BDR 41/2Ba, 3/4 acre 941.374.0196 Janis collier 941.313.1211 Judy & Bill nimz

GRAND BAY $799,000 2BD, 2Ba, 2,500 sq ft contemporary styling w/Fabulous Water & Golf course Views. pam charron 941.993.3388

opEn WEEKEnDs 9:00aM – 4:00pM

Michael Saunders & Company

®

Mid Longboat 383.5502 • South Longboat 383.7591 • St. Armands 388.4447 • Main (941) 951.6660 • Palmer Ranch 966.8000 • Siesta Key 349.3444

79328

Licensed Real Estate Broker

Longboat Observer

6171 Gulf Of Mexico Dr #A3944601 Michael Nink

$4,900,000

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

2625 Colony Ter #A3954850 David Simon

$1,397,000

Sarasota 941-388-4447 941-400-8764

601 Longboat Club Rd # 1103S #A3940481 $874,000 Sylvia Zimmerman & Marlene Liberman

19A

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

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

566 S Spoonbill Dr #A3950329 Audrey Singer

Sarasota 941-383-7591 941-350-2588

$2,800,000

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

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

2105 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 3501 #A3952430 $995,000 Susan Mcleod

Longboat Key 941-388-4447 941-928-4445

2550 Harbourside Dr # 314 #A3952791 $875,000 Terri Derr

Longboat Key 941-383-7591 941-356-6694

4577 Camino Real #A3953311 Christina Ashley

Oyster Bay 941-383-7591 941-780-0291

2675 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 303 #A3953720 $725,000 Julia McClung

Longboat Key 941-388-4447 941-356-6499

$799,000

631 Ranger Ln Kristina Von Kessel

Longboat Key 941-266-2848

7100 Longboat Dr Ann Martin & Joanna Benante

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OUR GLOBAL AFFILIATIONS showcase your property to over 6,500 affiliate branches in 52 countries

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3431 Winding Oaks Dr # 16 #A3957623 $699,000 Susan Fox

Longboat Key 941-383-7591 941-544-6648

1425 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 204 #A3941538 $649,000 Jenifer Schwell

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

3453 Winding Oaks Dr # 27 #A3949629 $609,000 David Simon

Longboat Key 941-388-4447 248-342-3551

2109 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 1201 #A3957661 $549,999 Hannerle Moore

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

500 Ketch Ln #A3951554 Betty Knight

$495,000

Longboat Key 941-966-8000 941-928-3019

2002 Harbourside Dr # 1601 #A3931062 $355,888 Eileen Burke

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827 Bayport Way # 827 #A3957434 Bobbi Banan

$339,500

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4350 Chatham Dr # E108 #A3922243 $259,000 Emmy Lou Gilbert

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250 Sands Point Rd # 5302 #A3951616 $229,900 Ian Addy Pa

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5230 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 201 #A3953684 $219,900 Cathy Meldahl

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3808 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 103 #A3957718 $209,900 Stephen Harris

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2800 Harbourside Dr # E-14 #A3954322 $165,000 Bruce & Jenine Meyer

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VACATION RENTALS Veranda Beach Club verandabeachclub.com 800.411.5511 White Sands of Longboat whitesandsoflongboat.com 800.230.2428

RENTALS

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501 Harbor Gate Way #A3953390 Gail Kayajian

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2425 Gulf Of Mexico Dr # 11A #A3953163 Gail Kayajian

Longboat Key $6,000 941-552-4200

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

75812

3030 Grand Bay Blvd # 333 Longboat Key Sandi Layfield 941-914-2807

20A

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

bookish recognition

by Dora Walters | Senior Editor

Library honors lifetime members The Longboat Library honored its lifetime members at a reception March 22, held at the home of Marcia and David Gutridge, lifetime members themselves. Event Chairwoman Patrice Greene said the library has about 60 lifetime members, but there had been no formal recognition of them

for several years. The library was founded in 1957 and has an all-volunteer staff.

During the afternoon, Jennie Moen, a vocalist and musician, performed, as she has at several library events. The library will hold its annual meeting April 14 at the Lazy Lobster.

Mike and Diane Mullihan

Photos by Dora Walters

Event hosts Marcia and David Gutridge

Unwind

with us.



r o Car o d n I

a r g o e t S LocAted two miLes FRom sRQ AiRpoRt

The Perfect Solution For Your Seasonal Needs www.asecureplace.com

941.351.7656

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

Take that break you’ve earned and deserve. At Horizon Bay Sarasota

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

you’ll unwind with complimentary massages, aromatherapy, peaceful music and a gourmet lunch. It’s a

Call for reservations 383-0013 5610 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key

Complimentary admission and luncheon.

RSVP to (888) 691-7694

by April 6.

Thursday, April 12 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Independent Living Personalized Assisted Living Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care 730 South Osprey Avenue Sarasota, Florida 34236 Assisted Living Facility #AL 8261 ® Reg. U.S. Patent and TM Office 20449-ROP01-0412 SW

76654

www.brookdaleliving.com 78577

STORAGE

Autos, BoAts & RVs

great way to escape from the stress of the day. Make plans now to attend.

Your story continues here…

SECURITY FIRST

76557



Carolyn Mangel, Ellen Kallman and Elyse Rogers

Charles Resnick with George and Madelyn Spoll

76666

Jennie Moen and Amy Roth

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

party on

21A

by Dora Walters | Senior Editor

Village’s Spring Fiesta packs a surprise Longbeach Village residents are well-known for their colorful and fun parties, and their Spring Fiesta Saturday was no exception. Hosts Craig and Cathy Meldahl graciously shared their spacious front yard on the bay with the party-goers.

Of course, food is always a prime attraction, and in addition to appetizers brought by party-goers, a catered Cuban buffet, including plantains, was served. To help digest their dinners and shed the calories from the feast, attendees crowded the dance floor as musical group the Russ Adams Project played lively renditions of old favorites.

Ken Weiss served as party chairman for the event, which attracted more than 100 Villagers and friends.

Photos by Dora Walters

Musician Russ Adams with party Chairman Ken Weiss

Bob Bleakley with Celia and David Nadin

Jennifer Redding and Tom Barnum

Hosts Craig and Cathy Meldahl

Free piCk - Up on LongboAt key For three or more boxes

77724

Whether you need to... send a package, print documents open a mailbox, ACCess the internet, or ship something big...

We’ve got you covered!

5380 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Longboat Key 941.383.8989 store3225@theupsstore.com

• Office supplies • Shipping supplies • Greeting cards • Tervis Tumblers • Printer cartridges • LBK souvenirs

We are pleased to offer our special 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 & Motion Studio. Plus an open invitation to attend Club activities as

Improve your BrIdge game!!

well as use of Marina Village amenities and some tennis privileges.

Call today for details and to schedule your private tour.

American Contract Bridge League

Tired of losing?

Learn to win at bridge with interesting people, Beginner lessons / lessons and game practice.

Intermediate lessons In-Between Bridge Club

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

Town & Country Plaza, NW Corner Fruitville & Beneva

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

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

78828

79305

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

Unit 612, Inside Courtyard • Sarasota, FL

CLaSSeS BegIN: ThurSday, aprIL 26 • 9-11:30 AM michelle golden 941-365-7875

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

22A

All Angels by the Sea

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

making a splash

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

by Dora Walters | Senior Editor

Episcopal Church

The Rev. David Danner, Rector Palm Sunday, April 1 Distribution of Palms and Procession Holy Communion – 8 & 10 a.m.

Maundy Thursday, April 5 Holy Communion – 5 p.m.

563 Bay Isles Road Longboat Key

Good Friday, April 6 Solemn Liturgy – 12 noon

(941) 383-8161

The Winding Oaks Pool Committee members included Bob Gary, Skip Wilson, Russ Gill, Mark Hullinger and Chairman Bill Urban.

www.AllAngelsLBK.org

79011

Easter Day, April 8 Festal Eucharist 8 & 10 a.m.

Brass, Choir, Organ and Handbells

HOLY WEEK SERVICES

Winding Oaks residents toast to their new pool It was two-year project, but residents say it was well worth it. Residents of Winding Oaks now have a new heated pool, 55 feet by 26 feet, with separate swim lanes, an infinity edge and a salt exchange purifying system rather than chlorine. In addition, there is a 20-foot-by-30-foot shaded deck area.

Pool Committee chairman was Bill Urban.

To celebrate the new pool, residents gathered Monday, March 26, at the Bay Isles Beach Club for champagne toasts. Originally, the celebration was to be held poolside, but so many of the residents wanted to join in the fun, the party was relocated.

PALM SUNDAY SERVICES 8:00 &10:00AM The Reverend Dr. Bruce Porter SERMON: “Bittersweet!”

Director of Music: Dan Hoffman | CHILDCARE AVAILABLE

MAUNDY THURSDAY TENEBRAE SERVICE April 5th, 7:30 pm, Special Music and Communion

Cheryl Friedlander and Bonnie Wilder

FIND THEIR FUTURE HERE

EASTER DAY SERVICES 8:00 &10:00 AM The Reverend Dr. Bruce Porter SERMON:

“Appointment with the Fellow in the Bright Nightgown”

Prepare them for learning and for life.

70830

76681

Director of Music: Dan Hoffman, Special Choral Music with Trumpets, Timpani, and Organ | CHILDCARE AVAILABLE 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive • 383.8833 • www.christchurchoflbk.org

founded in 1956

APPLY TODAY Pre-K3 through 12th grade www.saintstephens.org 941-746-2121

A World-class Education

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

at the

Longboat Island Chapel

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

Palm Sunday

April 1, at 10 a.m.

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

The Rev. Charlie Shook, Preacher

64318

Easter

Observer size 5 x 5

Photos by Dora Walters

Sylvia and Harvey Nelson with Sel Medvin

Maundy Thursday Simple Supper April 5, at 5:30 p.m.

Please bring an item for the food bank

Easter Sunrise Service at Bayfront Park

State Certified General Contractor

•Porch Enclosures •Parts •Repair •Hurricane WindoWs

Organized by the Outreach Committee April 8, at 7:00 a.m.

Bring your own lawn chair to 4052 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

The Rev. Charlie Shook, Preacher Katt Hefner, Soloist and Matt Bokulic, Accompanist

ALSO AVAILABLE …

Easter Service of Worship

921-1113

Please Join Us!

79176

For more information, call 383-6491

5330 Ashton Ct., Sarasota

Since 1969 www.wilson-window.com

492-5200 1955 So. Trail, Venice

79288

IMPACT ENERGY STAR RATED

10:00 a.m.

The Rev. Charlie Shook, Preacher Children’s Easter Egg Hunt in the Garden

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

OBITUARIES

Dora Walters

Sandpipers group learns about local aid The Rev. Bryan O’Carroll, of St. George’s Episcopal Church, in Bradenton, was the guest speaker at the March 20 meeting of All Angels by the Sea Episcopal Church Men’s Sandpipers Group. His topic was the church’s food pantry and its distribution of food to the needy as well as plans for related programs.

The food pantry is open the second and fourth Thursday of the month with an average of 135 families served each time.

O’Carroll is trying to expand aid to those in need by developing programs to help them to use the Internet to hunt for jobs and encouraging them to take classes in English as a second language.

“I want to help them move beyond the food line,” he said. “I’d really like to put the pantry out of business, but I know that’s not realistic.”

O’Carroll has been at St. George since July and is the first full-time pastor at the church in 10 years.

The Rev. David Danner, of All Angels, presented O’Carroll with a donation to assist with these programs.

Dr. Robert G. Addison, of Chicago and Longboat Key, died March 15. He was 90.

Dr. Addison was born in 1921 in Chicago. He attended Von Steuben High School at the University of Utah and graduated from Northwestern University Medical School. He served in the U.S. Army as a medic. Dr. Addison served as a clinical professor in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Northwestern University Medical School since Addison 1953 and later joined the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Dr. Addison maintained an active private practice as an orthopedic surgeon until joining the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago (RIC) as a fulltime faculty member in 1974. At the RIC, Dr. Addison served as medical director, chief of staff and chief of surgery As an affiliate member of the institute’s board of directors, he helped organize the RIC consulting medical staff in 1958. He was named the first chair holder of the Coleman Foundation Chair in Rehabilitation Medicine.

In 1980 he was the founder of the first interdisciplinary pain clinic in the Midwest, the Center for Pain Studies at the RIC. He was the author of books, scientific and editorial writings and was an active national and international lecturer.

He was a charter member of the American Pain Society (1978) and served on many committees and as its treasurer and president. In 1996 he was the recipient of the APS Distinguished Service Award acknowledging his many contributions that helped to lay a strong foundation for the organization. Dr. Addison was also a

Roser Community Church

A

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

Celebrating 100 years of Service in 2013

76759

941-778-0414

www.roserchurch.com

Catherine L. “Kay” Ronson, 78, of Longboat Key and New York City, died March 26.

She was born and raised on a farm in Postenkill, N.Y. She graduated with an R.N. degree from Samaritan Hospital in Troy, N.Y. In 1955, she married Harold Ronson, a Navy sailor. They had two daughters, Norma and Joanne.

Mrs. Ronson continued her nursing studies and eventually completed a baccalaureate and master’s degree from Russell Sage College. She Ronson served on the nursing faculty of Russell Sage for many years and taught medical-surgical and psychiatric nursing. After moving to New York City, she became involved in Central Synagogue and the UJA. Mrs. Ronson became a bat mitzvah at Central Synagogue, in 2001. In Sarasota, she was active in the Sarasota Opera, the SarasotaManatee Jewish Federation and Temple Beth Israel of Longboat Key. Mrs. Ronson is survived by her husband, Harold; daughters, Norma Koppel, of Rockville Centre, N.Y., and Joanne Ronson, of New York City; and two grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Temple Beth Israel of Longboat Key, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key, Fla., 34228; Senior Friendship Center/The Living Room, 1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota, Fla., 34236; or to the charity of your choice. Funeral services will be held March 29 in New York. Shiva will be held at the Ronsons’ Longboat Key home Sunday, April 1 and Monday, April 2.

St Armands Key Lutheran Church Roser Community Church

On St Armands Circle • 40 N. Adams Drive • 941-388-1234 • www.starmandschurch.com Gary A. Batey, Pastor

Palm Sunday A non-denominational, traditional church 9am & 11am “Love Unknown: A Festival of Readings & Hymns”

The Reverend Mark A. Bernthal

pm pm

Easter Sunday Services

7:00 am

9:00 am

11:00 am

A Center of Jewish Life and Learning in the Sarasota Area

76766

WINTER MASS SCHEDULE Saturday: 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm Sunday: 8:00, 9:30 and 11:30 am M-F 9 and512 11:30 / Sat Anna 9 amMaria 941-778-0414 Pineam Avenue, Easter Vigil: 8:15 pm www.roserchurch.com Easter: 6:45, 8, 9:30 and 11:30 am Msgr. Gerard Finegan, Pastor Gary A. Batey, Pastor

s!

U

Welcomes you to Mass

n

Temple Beth Israel

CATHOLIC CHURCH

Roser Community Church

Catherine L. ‘Kay’ Ronson

i Jo

St. Mary, Star of the Sea,

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

5955 Rand Blvd., Sarasota, Fla., 34238.

Sunday 9 AM and 11 AM —Traditional HolyWorship Week Services 10 AM —Adult SundayMaundy School & Book Study April 5 Thursday, 5:30 7:00 Friday, April 6 9 AM —Children and Good Youth Church School

SundayHoly 9 AM and 11April AM — Worship Thursday, 5 -Traditional 7 pm in Chapel 10 AMGood —Adult Sunday Study Friday, April 6School - Noon&inBook Chapel and 11 Services - Sanctuary 9Easter AM —Sunday, Children9 and Youth Church School 512 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria

founding member and president of the American Academy of Pain Medicine and a founder and first president of the Midwest Pain Society. He was an advisory board member of the International Pain Foundation, a participant in the activities of the International Association for the Study of Pain and has been a member of the National Advisory Committee on Chronic Pain Management of the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities and consultant on the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research, Pain Management Guideline Panel.

He and his wife, Beverly, loved to travel, particularly to Italy and France. He was an honorary member of the Italian Pain Society and was a founder and president of the France-USA Pain Association. The Sealy Center of Excellence Pressure Mapping Laboratory in Trinity, N.C., was dedicated to Dr. Robert G. and Beverly Addison in 2008. Dr. Addison was a consultant for Sealy for many years and was involved in the development of the original Sealy Posturepedic mattress.

He was an avid racquetball and tennis player and was an accomplished, awardwinning sculptor.

Dr. Addison was preceeded in death by his siblings, Lillian Lewis, Mildred Frazin, Florence Stepner and Eugene Addison, and his brother-in-law, Dr. Ronald Minkin.

Dr. Addison is survived by his wife of 57 years, Beverly; daughters, Elizabeth Addison, Dr. Nancy Addison, Benita Addison Schachter and Susan Addison; and 10 grandchildren.

A memorial is being planned in Chicago. Donations in Dr. Addison’s memory may be made to the Robert G. Addison Chair in Pain Studies at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, 345 E. Superior St., Chicago, Ill., 60611; or Tidewell Hospice,

79133

Dr. Robert G. Addison

Share Shabbat and more:

Friday Evening, 8:00 pm Fourth Friday of the Month, 5:30 pm Saturday Morning, 10:00 am Please visit our Judaica Shop 941-778-0414 512 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria 941.383.3428 www.tbi-lbk.org Temple Beth Israel www.roserchurch.com

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

69634

by Dora Walters | Senior Editor

Gary A. Batey, Pastor

A non-denominational, traditional church

A non-denominational, traditional church

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

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

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

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

73447

brotherhood

The Rev. Bryan O’Carroll

23A

24A

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

April hath put a spirit of youth in everything.

•William Shakespeare•

RogeR sells

x( a M and ) 7 ke (

5

)

Spring iS in the Air! As we head into Spring and temperatures reach the 80 degree mark, we can feel the excitement brought on by the height of our season. The social calendar is packed to the gills; we find ourselves torn between attending the Forty Carrots annual fundraiser with Debby Harry of Blondie as a headliner, catching the latest WBTT production of Sammy Davis Junior, enjoying the Ringling in Bloom and walking in the Southeastern Guide Dogs walkathon! The real estate sales season is busier than we have seen in seven years. The volume of homes being sold, coupled with a seriously declining inventory is bringing stability back to our real estate market. If you are considering selling your property, contact us nOW!

Ja

BAY ISLES

hArBour LInkS

SAnCTuArY

2023harbourlinksdrive.com Perfectly secluded southwest facing golf course villa with two car garage!

Everything in this 3BR plus den has been lovingly updated. Pet-friendly. $699,000

545sanctuary201.com Ascot plan offers Gulf and pool views.

3BR/3.5BA plus bonus room. $1,599,000

COUNTRY CLUB SHORES Country Club Shores is a lovely waterfront community on the southern end of Longboat Key. It was created in the 1960s, with most homes on deep water canals and along the open bay front; today, many of the properties have been renovated or replaced by beautiful new homes. Access to Longboat Key’s private beaches is just steps away.

561harborcovecircle.com In Bay Isles, full-bay view with over 185' of water frontage. Open floor plan. $1,995,000

SIESTA kEY

BIrd kEY

601yardarmlane.com Just three in from the bay, this 3BR/3BA has vaulted ceilings, glorious outdoor living and big views of the bay. $899,000

485eroyalflamingodrive.com 5BR waterfront home with high ceilings and open floor plan. $1,095,000 432partridgecircle.com 4BR/3BA garden home in Sarasota’s most popular community. Vaulted ceilings in family room overlooking pool. $659,000

PENDING

521harborcaydrive.com 3BR/3.5BA plus den in Harbor Section.

Recently updated, elevated ceilings.

Wonderful waterfront. $1,525,000

GrAnd BAY grandbay446.com Furnished; overlooks marina, downtown, golf course; 2 parking spaces. $1,495,000 grandbay466.com Ideal location in Bldg 4; marina, bay, city and Gulf views! Furnished. $1,395,000 grandbay261.com 3BR/3.5BA, Antigua with views of bay, pool, golf course, and downtown from wraparound terraces. $1,095,000

3969robertspointroad.com On one of Siesta’s most coveted streets, this deep-water home offers lovely views and great space. $1,495,000

360 norTh CondoMInIuMS

PENDING

1125bogeylane.com Tuscan-style home looking down the canal toward the bay. Major landscaping and interior renovation. $759,000

3386bayoulane.com Overlooking Harbourside Golf Course and its lakes, this 4,500+ sq. ft. home is ready for you and your family! $999,000

ProMEnAdE promenade402.com Wrapping around the southern corner, this 3BR/3BA has views of the Gulf, bay and city. Turnkey furnished. $829,000

PENDING

WATEr CLuB waterclubnorth1102.com Rarely available 4BR penthouse, direct Gulf and bay views. Exquisitely finished and furnished. 2 car garage. $2,895,000 waterclub204.com Delightful 3BR Brighton plan with over 3,000 sf. Furnished. Sunset Gulf views. $1,275,000 waterclub-208.com Incredible value! Dover 3BR/3BA plan with wood floors. Partial Gulf views and expansive garden views. Furnished. $899,000

PENDING

512cutterln.com Charming 3BR/2BA on deep water canal has been lovingly updated. $599,000

3440bayousound.com Lovely and ready to enjoy! New kitchen with family room; sunny pool area. $699,000

PENDING

280northshoreroad9.com Direct Gulf, 3BR beach house in small, private community on north Longboat Key. Comes with it’s own swimming pool and elevator. $1,095,000

ToWLES CourT 1857morrillstreet.com Downtown Sarasota. Studio, residence, or commercial venture. 2BR/2BA plus garage; ample parking. $424,000

SEAPLACE seaplaceg4204.com Terrific value, this 2BR is located in the popular G-4 building. $299,000

www.rogersmarketupdate.com

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

roger c. pettingell Luxury Waterfront SpeciaLiSt

941.387.1840 roger@longboatrealestate.com

941.586.6668

www.longboatrealestate.com

76927

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

REAL ESTATE

SPORTS

Three-bedroom home on Bird Key sells for $1.15 million.

Angela Stowe finds golf challenging but enjoyable.

PAGE 2B

HISTORY LESSON

WEATHER

PAGE 12B

by Mallory Gnaegy | Community Editor

See this week’s weather photo contest winner.

PAGE 15B

Timeline 1884 – Railroad connects Tampa to northern U.S. 1885 – John Saverese establishes his fishing company in Tampa.

1897 – Saverese begins bringing early vacationers to Longboat Key from Tampa.

1913/14 – Saverese’s home is built.

1921 – A hurricane destroys Saverese’s home.

1936 – Saverese gives property to newly married Frank and Fran Mayers.

1940 – The two-story apartment building is built (it was incorporated into the Land’s End site in 1951).

1955 – The garage/workshop and masonry structure on the property is built.

Above: The Land’s End Marina today. Right: Land’s End in 1960.

Preserved paradise

ding present in 1936 if she and her husband, Frank, would pay the owed back-taxes.

A vacation hideaway

Memories begin where the ‘land ends’ on Longboat Key.

A white ’40s-style rectangular cottage sits on the edge of the water at the northern tip of Longboat Key, just where the land ends. The dolphin-filled blue-green Gulf of Mexico water laps peacefully under the water-facing porch of the house, and it has been this way since the Mayers family bought the property in 1936. Today, they remain one of the oldest families on Longboat Key. It’s not uncommon to see Tom Mayers throwing a cast net from the large pelican-perched dock, which has been rebuilt three times over the years — there is even an award-winning photo of his father, Frank, casting a net on the same dock.

According to a 1913 map of New Pass, Land’s End has, arguably, the best fishing on the west coast of Florida. It’s fitting, then, that the original settler of Land’s End and relative of the Mayers family, Italian-born John Saverese, was in the fishing business.

The early years

The year 1885 was an ideal time to begin a fishing company in Tampa because the construction of the Plant Railroad in 1884 con-

necting Tampa to the northern region of the U.S. allowed for a more massive fish transportation operation. Within 10 years, Saverese had employed 550 men, 15 sailing vessels, 150 small boats and a large steamer, “The Mistletoe.”

“It was the biggest fish house in the United States,” says Tom Mayers, former Longboat Key Historical Society president. “There’s nothing like that today.”

The 75-foot-long Mistletoe was used to bring vacationers from Tampa to Longboat Key two times per week. Due to the success of Saverese’s business, he acquired extensive building and real-estate holdings — including what would eventually become Land’s End. About 1914, Saverese built a vacation home on the edge of the water.

“We would like to think, romantically, that he took the bow of the Mistletoe (onto the beach) and thought, ‘This is beautiful,’” says Tom Mayers of why Saverese picked the location. A newspaper article from the time described the two-story home as one of the finest homes on a barrier island on the west coast of Florida. In 1921, a hurricane destroyed the home.

During the Depression, Saverese failed to pay taxes on his land holding. He offered it to his newly married great niece, Frances Fitzgerald Mayers, as a wed-

Frank Mayers, originally from Barbados, met Frances Fitzgerald in Tampa, her hometown, when he was 35 and she was 25.

They acquired the northern tip of Longboat Key — their children disagree on whether it was for $50 or $500 — and Land’s End became their second home.

In 1936, construction on Frank and Fran Mayerses’ vacation home on the edge of the water began; Frank Mayers built the home himself. It was a magical, isolated hideaway for family, which would eventually consist of Frank, Fran, and their children, Michael, Joani and Tom. The children grew up fishing, stone crabbing, sailing prams, swimming and exploring the environment around them. It was a place where the “family with our extended family and friends could gather, share experiences, enjoy a pristine natural environment, create and tell stories,” says Michael (Mayers) Saunders.

The Land’s End Marina

In 1958, the north Longboat Key bridge was built, and the magic of Land’s End would no longer be kept a secret.

But the bridge created the ideal opportunity for Frank Mayers.

In 1956, he began constructing the beach cottage into a marina, and in 1958 it opened for business. It turned out to be more of a hobby than a money-making

1958 – The additions to the Mayerses’ home takes place, adding an east and west room addition. venture for the Mayerses. Frank Mayers ran the business while his wife kept the books.

“Land’s End Marina was a lot of things to a lot of people,” says Tom Mayers.

In the ’60s, it wasn’t uncommon for 12 boats to be docked at Land’s End Marina. Fishermen would stop in for bait, arguably the best hamburgers in town, smoked mullet or a cup of chowder and watch the pretty Mayers sisters, Joani and Michael, prepare them from a window on the full-width porch. There were cages with sharks and turtles. There were pet rattlesnakes (Frank was a snake handler), and even a monkey named Joe, who ended up being female. It was a landmark.

“The cottage had a flat roof, which was perfect for dancing and parties,” says Saunders. “So, it soon became the happening spot for youth from Bradenton and Sarasota to enjoy each other in a family atmosphere … that was a wild time at Land’s End.” In 1968, Frank Mayers died, and the Mayers family closed their father’s marina shortly after. Though, occasionally, regulars would dock up and say hello, and sometimes they still do.

It remained a place to make memories with close family and friends.

1958 – The north-end Longboat Key bridge is built.

1957 – The Mayers family moves permanently to Longboat Key. 1958 – The Land’s End Marina opens.

The next generation

Even though the Key’s resident population has increased, people are still doing the things they historically have done on the island — sail, fish and enjoy the area.

“It’s nice to see that people still enjoy what my mom and dad did,” says Tom Mayers.

Saunders’ son, Drayton, grew up in the area, along with her sister, Joani Bergstrom’s children, Johanna and Kristin, and Tom Mayers’ daughter, Ellis. The family’s grandchildren also spend vacations at Land’s End. “The enduring thing about Land’s End is that the essence of it has never changed … Land’s End has a heart and soul,” says Michael Saunders.

It began as a magical, beachcottage hideaway for the Mayers family. Although it’s no longer hidden, Land’s End today is remembered in the same way in which the legacy began: a place to build family memories while enjoying a little bit of paradise.

ONLINE: Visit longboatkeyhistory.com and click on the “Our Digital Archives” link on the side of the page. The Longboat Key Historical Society’s website includes historic photos, videos and more.

2B

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

REID MURPHY PREsEnts ...

Luxury on the Water Call Reid Today! 941.232.3304 www.reidmurphy.com

New 3 Bedroom, 3,200 to 3,400 sq.ft.

Bayside condos with terraces and outdoor grills. Each condo comes with a private 2 car garage. Amenities include boat docks, clubroom, exercise room, plus bayside pool/spa.

$1,700,00 to $2,400,000

Bird Key home tops sales at $1.15 million

Veinte

Susan and Richard Davis, of Winchester, Va., sold their Unit 503 condominium at 2675 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Barry and Judith Fireman, of Radnor, Pa., for $660,000.

Built in 1979, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,896 square feet of living area.

It previously sold for $339,000 in 1996.

ING LIST NEW

Spanish Main Yacht Club

OVER AN ACRE GATED, MAGNIFICENT BAYFRONT ESTATE. 4/BD main house plus 2/BD guest house. EXQUISITE, EXCLUSIVE and PRIVATE with amazing vistas of Sarasota Bay. Casual elegance with ALL the extras in main home & guest house. Unsurpassed beauty surrounds the 75 ft. bayside pool. 2 docks w/ lifts. $8,400,000

By Adam Hughes | Research Editor

Susan and Paul Stokes, St. Petersburg, sold their home at 524 N. Spoonbill Drive, on Bird Key, to Paul Welch, trustee, Sarasota, for $1.15 million. Built in 1965, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,168 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $1.15 million in 2009.

This week’s residential real-estate transactions took place between March 12 and March 16.

GRAND MARINER

ING LIST NEW

real estate | transactions

John Clay and Mary Dailey sold their Unit 59 condominium at 932 Spanish Drive N. to William Peterson, Pittsburgh, for $410,000. Built in 1967, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,333 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $300,000 in 2001.

EXQUISITE TROPICAL BEACH HOUSE Over an acre of beautiful beach, sunset vistas in gated private setting. Fantastic 3/BD home plus 3/BD guest house. Tropical pool surrounded by lush landscaping. Ultimate finishes, spacious, open, flowing rooms w/ windows to the gulf and beach.

PERFECTION! $6,895,000

Windward Bay

Mary Tucker sold her Unit PH-1 condominium at 4600 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Anthony and Laurie Martincic, of Chesterland, Ohio, for $330,000. Built in 1975,

Mallory Gnaegy

This home at 524 N. Spoonbill Drive on Bird Key sold for $1.15 million.

it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,337 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $450,000 in 2008.

Bay Harbour

Edward Haizel, trustee, Longboat Key, sold his Unit 302 condominium at 450 Gulf of Mexico Drive to Jerome Siefman, of Bloomfield, Mich., for $275,000. Built in 1970, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,194 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $118,000 in 1998.

Visit our website see a map of this week’s transactions. www.YourObserver.com

BUILDING PERMITS These are the largest building permits issued by the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Department for the week of March 16 through March 22, in order of dollar amounts. (GMD = Gulf of Mexico Drive)

BEST BUY BEACH GULFFRONT ESTATE 1+ acres gated &

DIRECT BAYFRONT NEW MEDITERRANEAN 5BR MASTERPIECE Magnificent pool/patio bayside, plus large patio off master suite. Gourmet kitchen opens to family room, plus pool/game room and adjacent theatre room. Designer finishes.Gated with BOAT DOCK. $8,700,000

EXQUISITE CUSTOM Open floor plan flows to pool w/outdoor living area & private water views. Lg. downstairs master plus 3 guest suites upstairs - 2 w/private terraces overlooking water views. Exceptional architectural details. Great boat dock. $4,250,000

private boardwalk to beach. 5 BD plus lg. family/game room area. Kitchen, living area & downstairs master open to beachside pool & deck - spectacular Gulf, beach & sunset views. Gorgeous details. Total privacy. 8 car garage! Bring Offers $4,500,000

Permit Applicant Amount Alteration John Best $106,311 Alteration Harold Londer, trustee $105,000 Alteration John Saputo $64,300 Alteration O. Wayne Rollins III $46,750 Alteration Daniel Anber $24,408 Re-roof Regions Bank $19,500 Alteration Ronnie Carter $11,936 Alteration James Covell $11,936 Alteration Patricia Mankes $9,980 Alteration Robert Fera, trustee $9,634 Alteration Nora Kent $7,500 Alteration Muriel Schwarzman $5,475 Alteration John Sommers $5,029 Alteration Thomas Crowe $2,000 Alteration Carmen Heck $1,802 Alteration St. Resi Sarasota LLC $925

Remodeling By Design...

Lee Heineman

LONGBOAT KEY BAYPORT 3 BD Gulf view corner condo - split floorplan. 3 terraces. Totally private, no one above this fabulous corner location. Tennis, large pool, bayside pier and beach. $595,000 LIGHTHOUSE POINT GULF SIDE 196 ft.’ Gulf front with private beach plus Gulf side pool. 5 Bedroom/ master downstairs. Incredible design finishes, high volume windows maximize water views. $8,900,000 OLD FLORIDA CHARMING 4,400 sq.ft. Home w/193 ft. unobstructed Bay vista. Dock your boat and launch your kayak from your own private beach. $3,250,000 WESTON POINTE Stunning 3 bedroom home with boat dock! Living area is centered around pooltotal private outdoor living area. High ceilings, lots of windows - bright and open with beautiful finishes. Located behind the gates near tennis with beach access. $995,000

DOWNTOWN

LIDO KEY

RITZ CARLTON TOWER RESIDENCE 10th floor views of Sarasota Bay to Big Pass, and views of Marina Jack. Southeast corner with two large terraces and morning sun. $2,595,000 SARABANDE 8th FLOOR Gorgeous corner condo w/ panoramic views of Sarasota Bay, the Marina, city skyline plus Gulf sunsets. Luxurious finishes & amazing amenities! . $1,595,000

WESTWAY ESTATE – 210 FT. DIRECTLY on New Pass, views to Gulf, outstanding sunsets. 4 BR main home plus 4 BR guest house. Gorgeous courtyard pool, dock, private beach $8,900,000 access. The ultimate in designer finishes!

ORCHID BEACH GULF FRONT SPECTACULAR! 7th floor. Gorgeous Gulf, Beach and sunset views plus bay vistas. 3,600 sq. ft. 3 BD 31/2 BA. Master suite beach side. Incredible designer finishes throughout. Walk to St. Armands. Private 2 car garage. $2,675,000

Developers Realty Inc. Lic. R.E. Broker • 1266 1st St., Suite 9, Sarasota, FL 34236

Construction & Design

941.383.9286

CBC1251443 76689

HIDEAWAY BAY HOMES Exceptional home, full bay views. $2,249,000 Custom 5,000 sq. ft. canal home. Deep water dock accommodates 50 ft. boat. A great family home. $1,995,000 SEA GATE Gulf Front Split Floor Plan 2/2-Sunsets,tennis & beach $749,000 LONGBOAT KEY CLUB -INN ON THE BEACH Gulf front 2BR $995,000; Gulf front Club Suite $445,000 SABAL COVE Spacious 4BR w/first level master suite. Exquisite lakefront! Bay Isles subdivision, deeded beach. Close to tennis $1,695,000 EMERALD HARBOR NEW HOME on wide canal. 4 BD/ Master bedroom downstairs, plus 3 suites upstairs. Top of the line finishes. Exercise rm., kayak launch pad, deepwater dock & pool. Lots of privacy w/bay views, plus deeded beach access. $2,395,000 HARBOUR VILLA CLUB Fantastic 2/2 Bayfront penthouse. New windows & decorating. Fabulous views. 40 ft. boat dock. $550,000, 2/2 end unit $495,000

Providing design services for Interiors, Kitchens & Baths

LeeHeineman.com

4134 Gulf of Mexico Dr. #206A

70918

BAYFRONT ESTATE Gated, Private, 1 acre estate w/5,000 square foot 5 bedroom home on deepwater channel. Spectacular Bay vistas. Private beach access. Boat dock & lift.

BAYFRONT LIVING AT ITS BEST! $2,500,000

Address 575 Sanctuary Drive 2525 GMD 10 Lighthouse Point 6341 GMD 601 Russell St. 3341 Bayou Sound 2295 GMD 2301 GMD 801 Binnacle Point Drive 1000 Longboat Club Road 2045 GMD 4401 GMD 601 Norton St. 531 Birdie Lane 4825 GMD 2224 Harbour Court

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

3B

Coldwell Banker

®

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

Osprey, Casey Key. $4,850,000 5/4 MLS#A3952478 Sarasota, Lido Beach. $2,500,000 3/3.5MLS#A3953693 Barbara Miller 941-388-3966 Annette and Albert Ayers 941-366-8070

Open Sun 1-4pm 343 S Blvd Of Presidents Sarasota, Lido Key. $2,395,000 5/5.5 MLS#A3907921 Vercauteren / DiPinto 941-228-3894/941-323-0033

Longboat Key, Bay Isles. $2,099,000 4/4.5 MLS#A3933263 Linda Weber 941-504-2000

Anna Maria, Shore Acres. $4,995,000 3/3.5 MLS#A3952370 Judy Kepecz-Hays 941-387-1825

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Mainland Sarasota Sarasota, Westbrook. $945,000 George Appel, 941-366-8070 Prepare for a delightful lifestyle in this tile-roofed 3BR/4+BA patio home. MLS#A3949796 Sarasota, Holiday Harbor. $759,900 James Brown, 941-366-8070 A charming lifestyle enlivens this deluxe, tile-roofed Ranch. 3 bedrooms.

MLS#A3957057 Sarasota, Palm Aire. $310,000 Anita Caravello, 941-716-0381 3BR+den/3BA, solar heated pool home directly on lake in Golf Community.

MLS#A3955996 Lakewood Ranch, Riverwalk. $219,999 Martina Coppenrath, 941-7243339 3BR/2BA, 2000sf home in quiet community; soaring ceilings & open floor plan MLS#A3949639

Longboat Key, Bay Isles. $1,499,000 4/3.5MLS#A3949699 Bruce Myer 941-387-1859

Lakewood Ranch, Boca Grove Condo. $181,000 Monica Roche, 941809-5954 Beautifully appointed, Lakewood Ranch CC condo on golf course.

2BR/2BA. MLS#A3951076

The Keys Longboat Key, Villa Di Lancia. $1,499,999 Patrick DiPinto, 941-323-0033 Direct Gulf Front! Villa Di Lancia “walk down” residence. 3BR/3BA. 2,455SF. MLS#A3955494 Longboat Key, Country Club Shores. $899,000 Roger Pettingell, 941-3871840 Big bay views, vaulted ceilings and easy beach access from this 3/3.

MLS#A3951482 Open Sun 1-4pm. 552 Juan Anasco Dr, Longboat Key. $759,000 Anna Rees, 941-929-4096 Cozy 3BR/2.1BA, water canal, boat dock, jet ski lift, pool; 1846 sqft. MLS#A3956707 Longboat Key, Aquarius Club. $549,000 Bruce Myer, 941-387-1859 Inviting upon entry, this 2BR/2BA home offers partial gulf and bay views.

MLS#A3952704

Longboat Key, Bay Isles. $2,295,000 3/4.5 MLS#A3953976 Mike Greve 941-806-9444

Longboat Key, Pierre. $879,900 3/3 MLS#A3934324 Michael/Mary Nell Moore 941-321-8592/941-266-7740

Longboat Key, Fairway Bay. $479,900 Leah George, 941-780-0597 Panoramic views of Bay, Ringling Bridge & dwntwn from this bayfront 2BR/2BA. MLS#A3957129 Longboat Key, Fairway Bay. $439,900 David/Wendy Leventhal, 941-3871843/941-387-1877 Light & bright. 2100sqft, 3BR/3BA/2CG & fireplace; corner townhouse. MLS#A3947959 Sarasota, Lido Surf & Sand. $369,000 Inger Lill, 941-388-3966 Welcome the good life in this hospitable 2BR/2BA condo. Walk-in closet. MLS#A3955789 Sarasota, Lido Regency. $259,900 Angie Campbell, 941-320-1834 1BR/1.5BA Very special condo on the beach w/heated pool. Turnkey furnished. MLS#A3941033

Manatee Bradenton, Tidy Island Waterfront. $3,900,000 Baskind Warren Team, 941-388-3966 Stunning Bay View! 5BR/4.1BA Key West style island pool home.Custom details MLS#A3956565

Venice/Osprey/Nokomis Osprey, OAKS II. $1,240,000 Brian Maher, 941-388-3966 High style & practicality with this tile-roofed 3/4 home. Gated community. MLS#A3956689

Longboat Key, Country Club Shores. $759,000 3/3 MLS#A3948062 Roger Pettingell 941-387-1840

Longboat Key, Castillian. $749,000 3/2.5 MLS#A3952491 Lynne Koy 941-387-1803

Venice, Plantation Woods. $329,000 Louis Wery, 941-387-1816 Best value in Plantation Woods! Bright 3BR/3BA, large rooms in 2,900+sq-ft.

MLS#A3956121

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

76131

FLORIDAMOVES.COM

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

BUSINESS OBSERVER

By Mallory Gnaegy | Community Editor

Courtesy photo

Longboat Key Club and Resort employees Ryan Rauscher, Jeni Clair, Mike Hobmann, Rick Benninghove, Gloria Schroeder and Gordon McMillan receive the AAA Four-Diamond Award from Bill Diamond, middle, AAA senior motor club manager, Suncoast Area

+ Longboat Key Club & Resort receives glittering award The Longboat Key Club & Resort was recently awarded the AAA Four-Diamond Award for the 29th consecutive year. Only 4.8% of lodgings inspected annually receive the four-diamond designation.

“I am thrilled that Longboat Key Club & Resort is once again the recipient of this highly respected and highly coveted designation,” says Michael Welly, general manager of the Key Club, in a news release.

The AAA rating system began in 1937 to provide travelers with recommendations and ratings.

has also announced that Go Soeda and Jessie Levine will join the Sarasota Open Men’s Invitational Tournament, along with Sam Querrey and Tommy Haas.

Japanese baseliner Soeda is ranked No. 67 in singles, and Levine is ranked No. 133.

Levine also was recently awarded a wildcard to play in the 2012 Australian Open.

It has also been announced that Alex “Bogie” Bogomolov Jr. will return to the Sarasota Open this year. He is currently ranked at No. 39. The Russian-born Florida resident played his way to the final event last year and was ousted by James Blake after an exciting match.

+ 2012 Nick Bollettieri Open + Additional players confirmed seeks junior tennis players for the 2012 Sarasota Open IMG Academies will host the 2012 Nick The inaugural Sarasota Open Ladies Invitational Tournament recently announced its second player to confirm: Dasha Sharapova. The 16-year-old IMG Bollettieri Academy student began playing at age 5 in Russia; she is cousins with Maria Sharapova.

The Sarasota Open professional tournaments will take place April 14 to April 22, at the Tennis Gardens at the Longboat Key Club. Now in its third year, the Sarasota Open

Bollettieri Open from June 1 to June 4. The singles-only event will feature 32 of the best 11-, 13- and 15-year-old players. Each age group will have a chance to win one free week of camp evaluation, and the overall winner will earn the opportunity to receive a yearlong scholarship to attend IMG Academies.

Interested players should submit resumés and videos to nickbollettieridiscover@imgworld.com. Entries will close May 1.

SAve 20% on AnY ProM DreSS starts today one week only!!

Designers That Are Sure To Make You Sparkle!

Siesta Key • 941-349-6644 St. Armands • 941-388-5239 w w w. f o x y l a d y s a r a s o t a . c o m

79434

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4B

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

5B

TOP SALES ASSOCIATE – Ranked in the Top .5% of Coldwell Banker Associates Worldwide G NEW LISTIN

G NEW LISTIN

G NEW LISTIN G NEW LISTIN

Villa Azzura - Sapphire Shores Stunning direct Bay front on 145 feet of deep water with 5BR/3.5 BA, a 2,200 SF master suite, 1,000 bottle wine room, private dock, wading & lap pool w.spa & 8-car garage. $3,950,000

Sarabande - Downtown Sarasota Beautiful 2BR/ 2BA apartment, exquisite Sarasota Bay and marina views, bright, open floor plan with all new carpet, ceramic tile, granite, and a fresh neutral color palette. $799,000

Water Club I -Gulf Views South facing 3 bedroom, 4 bath apartment on the 4th floor has an open & spacious floor plan, oak floors, wood plantation shutters, wet bar and furniturequality built-in's throughout. $1,595,000

Coral Cove - Bay Front Beauty Mainland Mediterranean Perfection with 130’ of waterfront, 5BR, theater, library, family room, infinity edge pool/spa, dock, jet-ski lift and 4-car garage. $3,195,000

Water Club II - Gorgeous Views Gulf, Bay & City lights views from this premier 9th floor Dover model. 3 full BR+den/4.5BA, 10’ ceilings, Saturnia marble floors, private elevator foyer. 2 parking spaces. $2,395,000

La Firenza - Direct Beach Front sunsets over the Gulf and partial Bay views from this SW corner 3,521 SF apartment with varying 11 & 12 ft. ceilings. Built in 2007 with 3BR+ family room, den/3.5 BA and summer kitchen. Oversized private 2-car garage. $2,998,000

NEW PRICE

Sanctuary II – One of a Kind! Direct Gulf front walk down with private plaza deck. View gives the feel of living on a Caribbean island.

Largest 3BR with 3,115 sq. ft. Gulf/beach views. Unique opportunity. $1,985,000

Ritz Tower Residences – Incredible Opportunity One of a kind 4th floor walk-down to amenity level with four bedrooms, 4 baths and 3,659 square feet of easy living space. Sought-after floor plan, marble floors, wood cabinetry and stainless appliances throughout. 2 valuable parking spaces incl.

WAS 1,795,000 $1,395,000

Water Club I – Direct Gulf Front Gorgeous 7th floor apartment with 3BR/5BA and 3,400 sq. ft. Amazing water & sunset views! Oak wood floors, unique interior finishes, 2 parking spaces & excellent amenities. $2,700,000

Grand Bay III - Beautiful Water Views Light and bright 3BR/3.5BA residence in Building 3 with nine foot ceilings, spacious floor plan and wrap around terraces for enjoying views of Sarasota Bay. $799,000

Siesta Bayside – Deep Water Canal Gorgeous waterfront updated home. 2,641 sq. ft., 3BR/2BA, large tropical patio area with pool/spa, boat dock with lift & floating jet-ski dock. Includes 12 sunset cruises! $849,900

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. $869,000

Ritz Tower – Downtown Sarasota Sophisticated Simplicity with Style! 8th floor 2,799 SF residence with 3BR/3BA in wood, granite & stainless offers a neutral color pallet & gorgeous Bay, Marina, & City views from every room. 2 prkng spaces. $1,399,000

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. $1,289,000

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

BANK OWNED Bird Key - Outstanding Waterfront Opportunity Built in 2007 on a wide protected boat basin. Home has 8,071 square feet, 5BR/5.5BA, guest wing with separate entrance and more! Infinity edge pool, boat dock, and 4-car garage. $3,850,000

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 with attached guest wing. New in ‘07. www.Johnsonestatelongboatkey.com $11,500,000

San Remo Shores - Deep Yacht Basin On 160’ of waterfront has 5BR/5.3BA & 7,582 SF of luxury. Home theater, office, media room and rooftop widow’s walk. Private dock & 4-car garage. $3,995,000

The Bougainvillea House - Tudor Revival Renovated in 2006 on 3 lots with 4BR/3.5BA + separate guest house totaling 4,857 square feet. Home exudes old world charm while offering today's modern conveniences. Wood floors, marble, pool, & 2-car garage. $1,290,000

Lido Shores - Direct Gulf Front Palazzo 200 ft. of sea-walled Gulf front with private Dock and Beach access. This 7,415 SF residence has 5BR/8BA, his and her bath & studies, 50 ft. pool/spa & 5-car garage. $7,900,000

Hot OYSTER BAY - Vacant Lot Unique oversized (15,772 s.f) lot with lots of depth and diversity! Plans are available for the home pictured,or you can build to your own taste! Lot is situated West of the Trail. $299,000

Sanctuary II - Beautiful Views South facing 4th floor apartment with 3BR plus den /2.5BA & wraparound terrace w/ views of Gulf and Golf Course. Incredible opportunity! $899,000

University Park - Custom Lakefront Beautifully maintained 3BR + Den home with 10ft ceilings, his & her bath, quality built-in’s, & expanded great room overlooking the pool/ spa and lake. Two car garage. $469,000

pROpERTiEs

Catch my Real Estate segment every Wednesday on Sarasota's

Ackerman

BARBARA

REALTOR®

www.barbaraackerman.com I barbara@barbaraackerman.com

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

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

Owned and operated by NRT, LLC

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

73723

The name to know in real estate

6B

YourObserver.com

SHOW IT OFF

Longboat Observer

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

by Dora Walters | Senior Editor

VISIT MY WEBSITE!

www.dougparks.com

335 Arthur Dr St Armands Circle Single family home with premium corner lot, walking distance to Circle and Beach $498,000

1 Ben Franklin #112 St Armands Towers North Full Gulf & partial Bay views, walk to St Armands, custom renovations $839,000

Take Us Out to the Ball Game

D

OL

TS

JUS

1336 Ben Franklin #1F Mark Twain Step out the door and into the sand from direct Gulf, ground floor unit $600,000

77332

G

DIN

PEN

Thinking of buying or selling Real Estate Talk to the team that has been Selling Sarasota Successfully for over 20 years

Tom & Pat Hanly (941) 388-2331

Country Club Shores

Photos by Dora Walters

Pat Lundy

Judy Herman

Seaplace residents get crafty for annual show Twenty talented Seaplace residents displayed their works at the annual Arts and Crafts Show held March 21, at the Seaplace clubhouse. Art on display included oil, acrylic and watercolor paintings, as well as pen-and-ink drawings.

Several residents also presented their colorful and imaginative beadwork jewelry.

One booth featured art created with shells found on Longboat’s beach. Other

tables displayed needlepoint, knitting and smocking, all created by the community’s residents.

Jim Diener’s table showed off perhaps the most unique invention — wind turbines made of plastic soda bottles. He discovered this craft in his travels to a small city in Czechoslovakia. On his return home, Diener tried to re-create what he had seen. He says he continues to experiment.

Jim Diener

Sherri Kaufman

SELLER FINANCING AVAILABLE

Elegant 3 Bedroom home with full Bay Views. Formal LR and Dining Room w/gas fireplace, Gourmet Kitchen, Family Room 2 Offices, Large storage area under home.

Everything you are looking for.

571putter.com

$2,650,000

HOUSE BEAUTIFUL

76731

Not a thing overlooked in the 3 bedroom home. The family room features a gas FPL and opens to the kitchen - great for entertaining. A wonderful heated pool and 75’ composite boat dock with lift enhance the relaxing atmosphere of this home.

www.600bowsprit.com

3174 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Longboat Key, FL 34228

$1,479,000

Bayport Enjoy the amenities of this gulf to bay complex with 4 Har-Tru tennis courts, fitness center, fishing pier on the Bay, clubhouse, large heated pool plus lots of nature trails to enjoy the birds and tropical vegetation and deeded beach access. Turnkey furnished 2BR/2BA with spacious kitchen, split bedroom plan, lots of closets and storage. New carpet throughout, all stainless steel appliances, new washer and dryer and one covered parking space.

Come see for yourself what a good buy this is!

A3953826 $329,000 941.383.5502 or 941.724.7228 CathyMeldahl@michaelsaunders.com

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

2 IN FROM SARASOTA BAY

Fantastic Views. Immaculate home sits on private road off the cul de sac. Large boat dock and lift on the deep canal. Home recently updated. 3 Bedrooms, Large Living and Dining Room, Family Room and updated Kitchen.

www.591golflinks.com

$1,139,900

RE/MAX Platinum Realty

79100

All Offices Independently Owned & Operated

79200

St. Armands Circle, Sarasota www.hanlyhomes.com pahanly@aol.com

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

7B

DOWNTOWN SARASOTA

LONGBOAT KEY

Bayfront Elegance! Almost 4,000 SF of Open Living Space in This Fabulous Sarabande Residence. Dramatic Sunset Views! $1,999,000

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

ST. ARMANDS

Modern Luxury Four Bedroom w/ over 4,000 SF of Brilliant Living Space and Sweeping Water Views. Very Private! $2,895,000

LONGBOAT KEY

SIESTA KEY

Very Impressive Conrad Beach Beauty Just Steps to the Beach. $999,000

Award-Winning, Florida Green Certified Contemporary Masterpiece on Cocoanut Bayou w/ Over 6200 SF of Amazing Living Space Plus Guest Apartment. $4,900,000

SIESTA KEY

Captivating Gardens and Mesmerizing Water Views Surround This Architecturally Significant 4 Bedroom Home in Sanderling Club. $750,000

DOWNTOWN SARASOTA

LONGBOAT KEY

Exquisite Alinari 15th Floor Unit w/ Magnificent Views of Bay Out to Gulf! $499,000

Tranquil and Private Resort-Like Beachfront Estate on Longboat Key. $4,495,000

LIDO BEACH

Magnificent Bay and City Views! Spacious Orchid Beach 3 Bedroom, 3 1/2 Bath Unit That Feels Like a Private Home! Turnkey furnished, too! $1,695,000

CASEY KEY

SIESTA KEY

Beautifully Updated 3 Bedroom Island Getaway w/ Tranquil Bay Views and Boat Dock. $1,699,000

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

CASEY KEY

Great Little Beach Getaway with Bay Access

$1,850,000

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 941.308.6554.

Offering The Finest Services Of Real Estate

Each office independently owned and operated

Signature 79101

Cheryl Loeffler | MBA, Realtor | 941.302.9674 | Cheryl.loeffler@SothebysRealty.com Betsy Sublette | Realtor | 941.284.8483 | Betsy.Sublette@SothebysRealty.com The Plaza at Five Points, 50 Central Avenue, Sarasota, 34236236 www.CherylLoeffler.com

8B

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

Ian Addy & Gail Wittig 565 Sanctuary Drive, #A302 | Longboat Key | $1,225,000

Kim Laswell, John and Donna Green and Suzi Prater

Longboat Harbour Yacht Club races to a fun time It was a fun-filled afternoon as members of the Longboat Harbour Yacht Club gathered for their annual kayak races and patio picnic March 22. Commodore Len Trudell presented awards to kayak race winners Russ Varnum and Kathy Sever.

In addition, retiring longtime dockmaster, Mark Longo, received a plaque of appreciation. After feasting on sausages and hot dogs with all the trimmings, the festive crowd enjoyed lots of conversation and danced to the music of Patsy and Majella.

Yoshito Kimura and Ann Bateman

WAGNER REALTY

Michael Saunders & Company Licensed Real Estate Broker

Bringing People Home Since 1939

www.WagnerRealty.com 5360 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Suite 101, Longboat Key

Call 941-383-5577

1BD/1BA BAYFRONT SUTTON PLACE CONDO

440 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Longboat Key, FL 34228 GailWittig@michaelsaunders.com

#305 w/beautiful bay, pool and marina views. This complex has 2 pools and deeded beach access. Owner can have 2 small pets. Susan Klement $ 199,000 #M5823008

• Leading Specialists at Longboat Key Club & Resort

BAYVIEW 1BR/1BA CONDO IN SUTTON PLACE

Completely remodeled in neutral tones.

Furnished & ready for you now! Boat slips, beach house, 2 heated pools, low fees, pets allowed. Marta Altizer $ 229,900 #A3953115

• 61+ Years of Combined Real Estate Sales Experience • Team Sales Exceed $195 Million Since 2005 • 2010 & 2011 Top Sales Team Michael Saunders & Company, Longboat Key

Photos by Dora Walters

76582

9452 Swaying Branch Road | Sarasota | $3,499,000 Longboat Key Club & Resort | From the low $200’s to $1,000,000’s

941.387.0100

5251 Gulf of Mexico Drive | Longboat Key | SOLD

3315 Gulf of Mexico Drive | Longboat Key | $3,800,000 240 Sands Point Road, #4605 | Longboat Key | $899,000

WWW. ATHOMESARASOTA.COM

Barbara Milian, Ian Addy PA, Gail Wittig

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 with M5815731.

Peter Uliano $ 260,000 #M5815734

2BR/2BA CONDO

great view of Sarasota Bay, furnished, tile floors, upgraded kit., 2 pools, tennis, boat docks only $12 a month. Beach access. 2 pets OK. Seller pays $5,000 toward maintenance fee for 2012.

Dorothy Cook $ #A3950932 289,000

We invite you to take advantage of our team’s experience and allow us the opportunity to present you with a complimentary market analysis of your property.

MEDITERRANEAN LUXURY ON NORTH LBK

Sailboat water w/40’ dock, davit & 1300lb. lift. 3BR/2.5BA & office. High ceilings, completely renovated. Huge pool & patio, walk to beach.

Jerry Cunningham/Marta Altizer $ #A3952051 749,624

79005

FULL BAY VIEWS

Located at the very end of the street, offers unobstructed Sarasota Bay views, and canal access for boating. 2BR/2BA duplex, could convert to single family residence. Great mid Key location. Teresia $ 975,000 Bradford #M5824461

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

FASHION SENSE OF HUMOR

by Mallory Gnaegy | Community Editor

9B

\ȣȐȽ dɄɤ \ǸȽɜ ɜɄ ɤɴ Ʉɑ LȐȵȵ dɄɤɑ \ǸɜȐɑȘɑɄȽɜ @ɑɄɉȐɑɜɴѮ Ǹȵȵ ɜȣȐ ɰɉȐɑɜ ǸȽȇ ɰɉȐȃɜ ɜȣȐ XȐɑɴ Ȑɕɜ ȘɑɄȹ ȐǾɄɑǸȣѮ Ҩҫ ȝȐȽɜ Ҭҩҫҫ 4ȨȃȣǸȐȵ LǸɤȽȇȐɑɕ ѥ ɄȹɉǸȽɴѮ 0ɄȽȝǾɄǸɜ ,Ȑɴ

2718 Casey Key casa salamanca Private Walled Estate 280 ft. Waterfront $5.295 Million

Marilyn Aldrich wears a flowered top with bellbottoms, Valerie Barr dons a dinner dress with a straw hat, and Peg McAllister sports a tea-shirt with matching hose.

Mary Beth Godbold and Kat Chadwick

1416 Casey Key Villa Toscana 1.5 Acre Gulf-to-Bay Estate Casual Elegance In a Tropical Garden $5.2 Million

Sarasota Yacht Club Gal-E-Mates take fashion trends literally On March 14, the Gal-E-Mates of Sarasota Yacht Club had their monthly meeting. Following lunch, some of the members displayed their handmade wardrobes for a fashion show unlike any other. The group portrayed fashion trends literally. Examples included a T-shirt covered in tea bags and a flowered shirt covered in labels from bags of flour.

New ListiNg

846 N. Casey Key Rd Paradise PoinT 1.23 Acre Gulf-to-Bay Estate Wide Open Bay Views Magical Sunsets $4.495 Million

2910 Casey Key Villa bella rosa Neo-Classical Estate.

100 Ft. Bayfront Property $3.350 Million Photos by Mallory Gnaegy

Michele Powell and Monique Breyton

Alice Richey wears a tank top.

MICHAEL

1608 Casey Key casa mia Gulf-to-Bay with Walls of Glass Panoramic Azure Views $1.95 Million

MOULTON Certified Residential Specialist

Michael Saunders & Company Licensed Real Estate Broker

G LISTIN NEW

WATER CLUB - Direct Gulf front 3BR furnished 3400sf condo in sought after LBK building w/ great amenities. A3957287 $2,650,000

360 NORTH - North end of LBK 3BR townhome overlooking the beach and gulf. A3956001 $995,000

1613 BayshoRe Road 170 Ft. of Shoreline on Blackburn Point 1.39 Acres on Subdividable Lot $1.199 Million

ST. ARMANDS TOWERS Experience the view from this sophisticated furnished 2550sf 3 BR Penthouse overlooking the Gulf. A3953612 $1,750,000

BIRD KEy - 3BR garden home w/ pool in great condition and well maintained. A3954462 $575,000

VILLA DI LANCIA - Designer furnished 3BR condo w/staircase from your terrace to the pool & beach. A3950629 $1,575,000

db

Deborah beacham, P.A. REALTOR®, CRS, GRI, TRC

941.376.2688

LuxuryPropertyInSarasota.com

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

79221

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

76778

THE GRANDE - Exquisitely appointed gulf front Penthouse residence, 3260sf 3BR, 1450sf terrace w/ a two car garage. A3955033 $1,950,000

10B

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

GENEROSITY

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

by Dora Walters | Senior Editor

Players support kindness efforts for troops

Joe Esposito returns the ball during a game.

Sixty-four tennis players turned out for the fifth annual Operation Kindness round robin held March 22, at the Tennis Gardens at the Longboat Key Club and Resort. After their court play, participants moved to the Harbourside dining room for a reception and silent auction.

Operation Kindness is a charitable volunteer military support group that provides encouragement and local support for wounded service members.

Items at the silent action included paintings, jewelry and private tennis and golf lessons. Joanne Forch was an initial organizer of the local group and has served as its chairwoman each year. This year, the group raised its largest amount to date — approximately $39,000.

Linda and Don Bruns

Bettina Rosica and Gigi Silverberg

Photos by Dora Walters

John and Joanne Forch, chairwoman

The most patriotically dressed award went to Marcia Gutridge.

The women who scored the most points were Bobbi Goldwater and Pity Goldstein.

Talk to Tina Today - Longboat Key’s International Connection

Michael Saunders & Company Lic. Real Estate Broker

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

LoNgBoAT kEY Welcome to “doLPhIN WATCh”

76697

Over one half acre with 369 feet of waterfront, bay views, deep water dockage, deeded beach access.

Nearly 3000 SF of gracious living with pool, spa, and 2000 SF of lanai.

Live inspired!

Longboat Key Realty

Tina Rudek -

595 Bay Isles Road, Suite 120 E, Longboat Key GRI, TRC, CPC • 941-920-0303 • Tina@LBKRealEstate.com

$1,699,000

www.LBKRealEstate.com

Making Real Estate...Real Easy

BAY ACCESS - ChErokEE LodgE LoT oF A LIFETIME

Lido Regency condominium

Coveted oak canopy cul de sac with canal front dockage, easy access to bay.

Create an estate or renovate 3800+SF home with pool, fireplace, and banyan treehouse. Bike to Southside School and Village.

1700 Ben Franklin Drive | Lido Beachfront Property Suite 11 E | Sarasota, Florida

Panoramic views of the Gulf, Bay and City from this 11th Floor 1,507 square foot “TURNKEY FURNISHED” contemporary condo featuring 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, the building is beautifully updated,outstanding in house management, fitness room overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, beachfront heated pool and sauna, walk to St. Armands Shopping/Dining or to South Lido Park for Picnics, swimming,fishing, kayaking, or relaxing. Downtown Sarasota Theatre and Arts only minutes away.

Virtual Tour Available: http://www.pix360.com/slideshow/968

$1,599,000

Very Competitively Priced $629,000

SAINT ArMANd’S/LIdo VINTAgE VILLA

SandS Point condominium

100 Sands Point Road | Longboat Key, Florida | Suite 206

Peacefully in the center of it all with 2400 SF, distinctively vintage, surprisingly modern plan.Walled gardens alive with color embrace pool and spa. Short walk to beach, galleries, fine dining and the vibrant life envisioned by the Ringling’s.

This 2 Bedroom 1-1/2 Bathroom property boasts 1,492 square feet Situated behind the gates and beside the Longboat Key Club Resort.

When you speak of Location, it doesn’t get any better than this.

Rarely available 2nd Floor Suite Overlooking the New Pass Inlet, On site Marina provides dock,storage,water and electricity for your boat for a small fee allowing for enjoyment on both the beach and bay.

Beachfront Heated Pool and Sauna,Common Areas are meticulous, outstanding on site management, walk or bike to St Armands for Dining/Shopping and only minutes to Downtown Sarasota. The beachfront sand at this community is like a white flour powder. You will love it!

Virtual Tour Available: http://www.pix360.com/slideshow/1510

$740,000

elevating your

expectation of the

Value Priced $379,000

experience! real estate

LD

SO

440 Gulf of Mexico Drive | Longboat Key

79138

941.356.6694 | www.TerriDerr.MichaelSaunders.com

Thomas Fynes, Realtor, C.I.P.S.

P.A.

201 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key

(941) 387-1875 | (941) 504-9282 | fax (941) 383-3180 Email: gladstone2@comcast.net

79006

Terri Derr | terriderr@michaelsaunders.com

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

Lynne Koy ◆

11B

presents her

Luxury

PrEMIEr COLLECTIOn◆ e PRICTIoN C u ReD

941.387.1803 lkoy@coldwellbanker.com

ST. ARMANDS Spacious 4BD/3BA custom built home with elegant marble entryway set on a wide canal, just steps to shopping and dining in world renowned St. Armands Circle!)

$1,999,000

Tour Lynne’s properties at

www.lynnekoy.com

e PRICTIoN uC ReD

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

BIRD KEY - 4 BR/3.3BA Location! Location! This beautiful custom home has it all - fabulous downtown views across Sarasota Bay, granite kitchen with milk-glaze cabinetry, “Morning Room” with 8 Step crown molding, gorgeous pool, dock & lift. The first floor master suite has stunning Bay views and the second floor “Great Room” has “forever” Bay views from the terrace. $3,690,000

BIRD KEY Surrounded by water with 100’ directly on

the bay and 150’ on the canal. Spectacular, newly renovated Spanish sytle home, beautifully landscaped, just across from the Bird Key Yacht club with sunset views to lenghten your perfect day.

$1,950,000

• Top AgenT in Closed sAles on longboAT Key • Top AgenT in Closed sAles on bird Key

Global Marketing: NYtimes.com Birdkeynews.com Coldwellbanker.com Worldproperties.com Trulia.com LynneKoy.com Rightmoves.com Greatwaterfrontliving.com Realtor.com Zillow.com

Se Hou – 4 N e oP SuN 1 SAT

KEY TOWER SOUTH - Great Views of the Gulf, Downtown Sarasota and the John Ringling Bridge from this 2BR/2BA updated condominium home. $479,000

LONGBOAT KEY TOWERS - Beautifully CASTILLIAN - Beautifully Renovated! remodeled, with direct gulf views 2BD/2BA and 3BD/2BA w/gorgeous Gulf, beach & sunset views! two covered parking spaces. $790,000 Renovations include kitchen, baths and carpet.

Turnkey furnished w/Queen Murphy bed in guest bedroom. New A/C in 2008! $749,000

Follow me on Facebook / Twitter / LinkedIn / YouTube

DEDICATED TO LUXURY REAL ESTATE SM

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

Owned and operated by NRT, LLC

PROMENADE - Stunning Southwest SEAPLACE – Direct Gulf views from this SUNSET BEACH - Spacious 2BR/2BA views of the Gulf of Mexico, Downtown and the Bay from this 2 BR/2BA condominium w/a woodburning fireplace. $699,000

tropical stunner! Impecably decorated and split plan, tastefully decorated corner maintained with loving care this 2 BD/2 BA fully residence with fabulous gulf views from furnished condominium home is being sold at an every room. $429,000 incredible price. $489,000

Se Hou 4 N e oP N 1 – Su

PLAYER’S CLUB enjoy sweeping Gulf views and LONG BEACH - Beautifully remodeled 3BD/3BA, SEAPLACE – Recently updated kitchen with dramatic sunsets from 3 spacious terraces in this 1,350 Sq. Ft. home in Longboat Key’s Historic warm pecan cabinetry and granite counters in 2 BD/2.5BA fully furnished condominium home. Village of Long Beach, renovated in 2006 with new this 2BD/2BA condominium home with Southwest $750,000 kitchen and baths, tile flooring, hurricane shutters, Gulf and bay views and miles of sand and beach. $419,000. tropical landscaping, and more. $389,000

78220

You can search Lynne’s website in 13 languages – including English.

12B

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

ANGELA STOWE JUST THE STATS

By Dora Walters | Senior Editor

Years ago, Angela Stowe played golf on occasion, and her interest was sparked again when she and her husband, David, moved three years ago to Longboat Key. She finds it challenging but enjoys playing, especially at the Longboat Key Club and Resort.

Getting back in the game, did you start with lessons?

Yes, I did initially, but I find my husband, David, is my best constructive critic.

He never stops making suggestions. I’m also left-handed, but I golf right-handed.

Have you set any goals for yourself on the golf course?

Oh, yes! I want to break 100 — hopefully by next year.

Do you feel you do better putting or teeing off?

Much better teeing off. Putting can really be frustrating.

Dora Walters

Has getting back on the course had an impact on your life?

I am a bit of an impatient person. Hitting the golf ball around has made me a little more patient. I have also met several new friends playing golf.

The approximate number of sailors who participated in the 2012 Michelob Light One Design Midwinters, held March 18, at the Sarasota Sailing Squadron.

8,433

3,450

Most pins knocked down in the bowling season

by Doug Mampe for Bird Key Yacht Club bowling league as of Tuesday, March 20.

First-place bridge score of Alex and Marlene Lancaster at Couples Bridge Tuesday, March 20, at Sarasota Yacht Club.

O Is there anything in particular to keep you going on the course?

Lots of Diet Coke, and I sometimes sneak in a bit of chocolate.

200

30

Number of boats that entered into the 2012 Pot o’ Gold Regatta held Sunday, March 25, at Sarasota Sailing Squadron.

How often do you play and where?

I play three times a week with the Key Niners and David. I really enjoy Islandside, but the Blue Course at Harbourside is interesting.

Have there been any embarrassing moments or highlights in your play?

I’ve hit the ball into the street a couple of times. You can never tell where that ball is going. In a recent twilight mixer at the club, I felt I did quite well.

3.5

The Super Senior team from the Longboat Key Public Tennis Center that won the District Championship Monday, March 19.

They will play in April in Daytona.

Are there any other golfers in your family?

Yes, my mother, Pauline Nichols. She’s 86 and lives at Plymouth Harbor. She golfed frequently until a couple of years ago.

7,528

Most pins knocked down by a female in the bowling season by Dee Devlin for Sarasota Yacht Club bowling league as of Wednesday, March 21.

Do you know a Longboat Key resident who should be featured as Athlete of the Week? Contact Community Editor Mallory Gnaegy at mgnaegy@yourobserver.com.

If you must leave,

take us with you...

Stay connected with your Longboat neighbors and neighborhood, wherever you go. Many important issues are being decided this summer and you’ll want to know about them. Have the Longboat Observer delivered anywhere in the world, and don’t forget to visit YourObserver.com for our daily e-Editions and headlines broadcast.

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To subscribe complete the form below and mail, fax or drop it off: The Longboat Observer 1970 Main Street, 4th Floor Sarasota, FL 34232

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Date of request ______________ Subscription start date ______________ Name ____________________________________________________________ Address __________________________________________________________ City __________________ State (Province) ___ Zip/ Postal Code ________ Country _______________________ Phone ___________________________ Email ____________________________________________________________ Credit card ____________________ Sec Code_________________________ Exp Date ______________________ Check # ___________________________

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79162

athlete of the week

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

13B

Martina Coppenrath

Martina’s passion & experience are evident in the art of real estate sales.

Her depth in knowledge of the downtown Sarasota market is unparalleled enabling her to keep a pulse on the ever changing market & constantly re-positioning her clients for maximum benefits.

For experience, service & results, call Martina today.

Call:(941) 724-3339 | Email: Martina@MartinaSellsSarasota.com

Owned and Operated by NRT, LLC

FloridaMoves.com Featuring 160,700 properties for sale in Florida 3

1211 Gulf of mexico Drive #906 Gorgeous SW Gulf views.

2BR/2BA, 2135 sqft with wood burning fireplace. $699,000

668 TreNToN Way - 3BR/2+BA residence in a gated community on an extra large lot. $379,000

Call:(941) 809-5954 | Email: Monica@MonicaRoche.com

2023 HarBour liNks Drive - Views abound in this 3BR+den/3BA villa in secluded & secure community. $699,000

1050 loNGBoaT cluB roaD #703 View from the Terrace 2/2 condo 1400 squ. Ft. views of bay and beach. Tennis, Fitness, immaculate. $435,000

1050 loNGBoaT cluB roaD #703 Great view of intracoastal and city. 2/2 condo located directly on the beach, great condo community. $435,000

2089 Gulf of mexico Drive #107 Enjoy tranquil views & tropical setting w/this updated 2B/2B seaside condo! $447,000

601 loNGBoaT cluB rD #303s - Updated 2BR/2BA condo w/direct Gulf views & 2 covered parking spaces! $795,000

Call:(941) 587-5060 | Email: Audrey@AudreyMarten.com

1932 HarBoursiDe Drive #235 Panoramic views of the Bay, Ringling Bridge & dwntwn from this bayfront 2B/2B $479,900

Call:(941) 780-0597 | Email: LeahRGeorge@gmail.com

1212 BeNjamiN fraNkliN Drive #407 Furnished 2BD/2BA condominium on Lido Beach with partial Gulf views! $510,000

3343 saBal cove Place - 3B/3B+den estate home w/private setting. Great pool/lanai for entertaining. $999,000

1926 HarBoursiDe Drive #1301 - Light & bright. 2100sqft, 3B/3B, 2car garage & fireplace; corner townhouse. $439,900

2016 HarBoursiDe Drive #314 Open 3BD/3BA condominium with private walk-down & bay view in Fairway Bay. $549,000

3550 fair oaks laNe Must see work of art w/attention to detail throughout every room. 4BR/5+BA $1,899,000

David & Wendy Leventhal

Linda Weber

2399 Gulf of mexico Drive #3B2 Stunning 2BR/2.5BA Gulf oasis located waterfront with amazing views! $1,795,000

Call:(941) 387-1867 | Email: Elliott@ElliottMitchell7000.com

1064 N Tamiami Trail #1519 - Luxury never looked so good with full, sweeping views of Sarasota Bay. $374,900

Leah George

3388 Bayou laNe 3B/3.5B custom southwestern home of 3008 sq.ft. on LBK club golf course. $839,000

Call:(941) 504-2000 | Email: LLWeber@aol.com

3610 fair oaks Place - 4BR/3+BA, pool, private dock & Bay views in this Queens Harbour home. $2,150,000

Audrey Marten

4241 Gulf of mexico Drive #302 - Direct FULL Gulf & Bay views; 3BR/2.5BA w/recent complete remodel. Pets OK. $1,059,000

Call:(941) 518-7694 | (941) 376-4894 | Email: www.TheLeventhalTeam.com

3314 Bayou roaD - Water & golf course views that rival the best. 5200sf, A/C w/4B/5B/8car gar. $1,949,000

Monica Roche

Elliott Mitchell

1064 N Tamiami Trail #1223 - Tasteful & elegant this spacious 2BR+den has a wonderfully revised floor plan. $294,900

Call:(941) 724-3339 | Email: Martina@MartinaSellsSarasota.com

Martina Coppenrath

79324

552 juaN aNasco Cozy 3 BR / 2.1B, water canal, boat dock, jet ski lift, pool 1846 sf $759,000

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

games | bridge bites By Brian Gunnell | American Contract Bridge League

A choice of promotions Here is a hand where E-W can beat South’s 3♥ contract in one of two ways, each involving a trump promotion.

East’s 2♠ was a “weak two,” showing a six-card suit and less than opening values.

With trumps 2-2, it may appear that the defense can manage four black-suit winners and nothing else. But, no, the defense can also rustle up a trump trick!

West cashes the A♣ and K♣ and leads a third Club. East must ruff with the Jack, and now the defense has a trump trick, because an overruff by Declarer sets up West’s Q♠. But do you see the snag? Yes, of course, Declarer won’t overruff — in-

stead she’ll dump a Spade loser, still making nine tricks.

Let’s try it a different way. This time the defense starts out by cashing its Spade winners, and, at Trick 3, East leads another Spade. As before, this promotes a trump trick for the defense, whether Declarer ruffs high or low. But, she won’t do either; again she’ll wriggle out of her predicament by pitching a loser, this time it will be a Club.

OK, here’s the defense’s last chance to get it right! They must cash all four of their side-suit tricks first. So, the A♣, K♣, K♠, Q♠ take the first four tricks.

Now, at Trick 5, another Spade from East

dooms Declarer. With the defense having cashed all their winners first, Declarer has no losers left to pitch, and this time the trump promotion produces a fifth trick. Down one!

Post Script: It may be trump promotion overkill, but there is even a third one on this deal. Picture East declaring 2♠ (perhaps South was snoozing through the auction). The A♥, K♥ are cashed, then the three Diamond winners. When North leads a fourth Diamond, Declarer is helpless, and the defense has conjured up the setting trick in trumps.

Visit www.acbl.org for more about the game of bridge or email marketing@acbl.org.

BRIDGE HAND Vulnerable: None

North

West

♠ K2 ♥ Q2 ♦ J 10 3 2 ♣ A K J 10 7

♠ AQ8653 ♥ J3 ♦ 987 ♣62 ♠ ♥ ♦ ♣

Bidding: East 2 ♠

JERUSALEM. Longboat Key resident Lauren Walsh took her copy of the Longboat Observer to the Western Wall in Jerusalem. The wall is one of the most sacred sites in Judaism and has been a site for Jewish prayer for centuries.

East

South

Contact Brian Howard, owner/director of the Bridge Center of Bradenton, at 795-8981.

IT’S READ EVERYWHERE

♠ J 10 7 ♥98 ♦ AQ54 ♣9543

94 A K 10 7 6 5 4 K6 Q8

South West 3 ♥ All pass

North

Solve the puzzle by placing the numbers 1 through 9 in each row, column and box. See answers on page 13B.

SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS: Headed on a great vacation? Make sure to take your Observer along!

Send your entries to nschwartz@ yourobserver.com.

© 2012 Universal Uclick

Giliberti GALLERY

Pam Hagan

Market your property with the Giliberti Gallery

941.400.6682 PamHaganSells@gmail.com

Keeping an eye on your masterpiece where your investment is our fine art!

PamelaHagan.com

Sold

Experience, impeccable service, integrity and talented hard work!

4725 Gulf of Mexico drive, lBK........$399,000 Sandcay #207 lBK.........................$349,000 5245 Winding Way, Siesta Key........ $345,000 4634 Northwood Terrace................$178,900 Bird Key drive.............................$1,795,000

941-284-9208 Mobile

Solymar - Sparkling Gulf views of Big Pass with a private beach are yours within this nine member gated community. Luxuriously designed to showcase the astonishing Gulf of Mexico, this residence offers endless water views from two terraces and a striking lagoon styled pool with waterfall. This is a rare opportunity to own an impressive 4 bedroom, 3,892 square foot pool house estate that captivates you from the moment you enter.

Offered turnkey furnished for $3,600,000

The WeSTcheSTer coNdo 4825 Gulf of Mexico drive Unit c- 302 PeNdING $435,000 Unit C-105 • MLS#A3955295 $535,000 Unit C-506 • MLS#A3957471 $565,000

79202

14B

toni.giliberti@floridamoves.com • www.teamgiliberti.com

COLDWELL BANKER RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE 201 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228

Looking for RESULTS? Sarasota’s Legendary

Grande Dame of Real Estate UnbELiEvabLE 37 Years of Expertise

St. Armands Circle - Spectacular 5BR/4.5BA, 5,400 sq. ft. St. Armands Bayfront residence with panoramic views of the city skyline and sunset. Every room in this home enjoys water views and the multi-level decks lead to a dock on the Bay offering two slips, plus space for jet skis and water toys.

Offered at $3,650,000

UnpaRaLLELEd Service UnRivaLEd Results 941.284.7373

We are anxious to talk to you about listing your property!

Century 21 Dockside Realty Associates 408 Gulf of Mexico Drive | Longboat Key | FL | 34228

Michael Saunders & Company, Licensed Real Estate Broker Longboat Key South • 440 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228

70927

Jenn LaGasse-Flanders 941.232-0788 79341

PAM HAGAN 941.400.6682

annetterogers@michaelsaunders.com

Longboat Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

TIDE CHART

Thurs., March 29

Highs — 4:34p

Fri., March 30

—

Sat., March 31

Weather Photo Contest Winner

Lows 12:42a

—

5:40p

1:53a

—

—

7:07p

3:04a

—

Sun., April 1

10:51a

8:40p

4:04a

3:26p

Mon., April 2

11:07a

9:58p

4:54a

4:42p

Tues., April 3

11:25a 11:04p

5:36a

5:39p

Wed., April 4

11:43a

6:13a

6:28p

—

15B

TemperatureS

Temps.

Record Temps.

High

Low

Tues., March 20 Wed., March 21

85 84

62 64

87 (1982) 46 (1988) 86 (1989) 38 (1971)

Thurs., March 22

84

68

86 (1977)

42 (1996)

Fri., March 23

81

68

85 (1976)

38 (1986)

Sat., March 24

81

67

87 (1994)

38 (1988)

Sun., March 25

79

69

86 (1984)

36 (1968)

Mon., March 26

80

62

88 (1988)

42 (1983)

High

Low

Average Gulf water temperature: 71

MOON PHASES

Sunrise/sunset Sunrise 7:24 7:23 7:22 7:21 7:20 7:19 7:17

Sunset 7:46 7:46 7:47 7:47 7:48 7:48 7:49

April 6 Full

April 13 Last

April 21 New

April 29 First

David Johnson submitted this sunset photo, taken on the north end of Longboat Key.

PHOTO CONTEST: Win an iPad 2 or Canon EOS T3 camera. Enter your sunset, sunrise or weather-related photos for The Observer’s weather photo contest, sponsored by . To enter your photos, visit YourObserver.com, and click on the “Contests” tab in the upper-right corner.

Weekly winners will have their photo printed in the paper and will be entered into a drawing for that month. The monthly winner will choose between an iPad 2 or Canon EOS T3 camera.

76098

Thurs., March 29 Fri., March 30 Sat., March 31 Sun., April 1 Mon., April 2 Tues., April 3 Wed., April 4

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

wELL-ARMEd by Potter Stern

Edited by Timothy E. Parker

2

CRYPTOGRAMS

1. N A R K C E F R N H N H M N G E F C Y H W C W J J W F D W F W M R K Q Y K K R H Z C AW R F S F E G W K K R E H K . D A R J W C AW K W W F Q EY J M H E C K W W CEE

GNF

N AW N M ,

C AW

ARKCEFRNH

DNK

XRFWM

RH

C AW

SNKC. IECA ANM N SFEIJWX DRCA CRXW XNHNZWXWHC. 2. H Z C B T O B V E O D O A Q T K Z Q T Q G C X K H Y D A C I Q T G C P K H O H X K ODL SON FQIQFK. “ Y ’E O BOSHOYD CR YDLXKHTN,” KOYL C D Q . “ H M O H ’ K D C H M Y D A , ” M Y K T Y I O F R Y T Q L P O B V. “ Y ’ E O P X K Y D Q K K E O G C T. ”

ACROSS 1 Hindu “sir” 5 Common aquarium fish 10 “The Wizard of Oz” character 15 “September ___” (Neil Diamond hit) 19 Black as night 20 Able to jump through hoops?

21 Permeate throughout 22 Fit of shivering 23 One adept at drawing?

25 Autos’ emergency replacements 27 “Buns of ___” 28 Cloister leader 30 Colorful call to arms?

31 “Mona ___” (Leonardo da Vinci masterpiece) 34 “At ___!” (boot camp command) 35 Skin product suffix 36 Patterns of experience, in psychology 40 Cancel, as a launch 43 “Grim” character in some horror films 47 Cold and blustery 48 Ancient Roman senate 50 “Million” ending 52 Take potshots 53 It may be inflated, massaged or bruised 54 Biathlon stops 57 Ocean 58 Brief and to the point 61 A bit that can be split 62 Traditional Japanese wrestlers, slangily 64 Hammer or Spade, e.g.

65 Passionate states 67 Victim of erosion

69 Highway distance marker 71 “Super ___” (Rick James hit) 73 Coin replaced by the euro 76 French social philosopher Georges 77 Chew the fat 80 Deep-sea fishing booking 82 Dunderhead 85 “Alamos” opener 86 Big bone 88 Bucket contents?

90 “Gandhi” role 91 “Aah!” companion 92 Survivalist’s structure 96 James Bond creator Fleming 97 Apple attachments 100 “Stop!” to Captain Bligh 101 The fable guy 103 Org. that deals with class issues?

104 College application parts 106 Brightest star in Cygnus 108 Slow-flowing syrup 110 Antlered deer 112 Closure for some jackets 114 All dried out 115 Chinese restaurant vegetable 119 Black of “Nashville” 121 Bullish comment 125 Enticing, as a look 127 They may need sharpening 130 Car rental company 131 Wynonna’s mom 132 Go in 133 Bone below the elbow 134 Cotton used for stuffing cushions 135 Anteater’s feature 136 Choir’s platform 137 Blue blood

dOwn 1 Does a certain dog trick 2 Be flush with 3 Common shape for a dog biscuit 4 Insincere 5 Comedic unit 6 “Eewww, gross!”

7 Bread served with falafel 8 Academy attendee 9 Mate and buena 10 “Desperate Housewives” lane 11 Babysitter’s headache 12 A lift, in Aspen 13 Like bacon, pastrami and most hams 14 Advice taker 15 Regular character in “Blondie” 16 Grimm monster 17 “Shoulda, woulda, coulda” one 18 Abode for a bird 24 “Sacro” addition 26 Allowed weights 29 “American Beauty” prize 32 Belittling comment 33 Airy courts 36 “Mata Hari” star Garbo 37 All fired up 38 Some fleshy seafood entrees 39 Does a baking task 41 Amphorae 42 High-ranking Muslim woman 44 Beats with a firearm 45 Blunted fencing weapons 46 Acknowledge a stimulus 49 Coolly detached 51 Eighteen-wheelers 55 Afghan title 56 One of the Seven Sages of Greece 59 Put into piles 60 A good way to stand

63 Canary’s relative 66 Title of respect in colonial India 68 Researcher’s place 70 Tennis’ Sampras 72 Skewered barbecue dish 74 “Lymph” follower 75 “Cheers” barmaid 77 “Almost!”

78 Owl cries 79 Like tournament chess games 81 Carved Native American pole 83 About to blow 84 Albacore and blue fin 87 “... ___ to leap tall buildings” 89 Chihuahua cash 93 Ancient language of India 94 “Laughing” African beast 95 Actor’s character 98 “My Little Chickadee” co-star 99 Airy supernatural being 102 Analyze grammatically 105 Airborne gaggles 107 Carnival pitchman 109 Satire 111 Tempting one 113 One-hundredth of a markka 115 Boo-boo cover 116 “Blame It on the Bossa ___” 117 Don’t keep in 118 “Am-scray!”

120 Young lice 122 Behold amorously 123 Russo or Descartes 124 Alexandra’s Nicholas, for one 126 “Down under” fowl 128 “___ fi fo fum” 129 Act human, proverbially

Thursday, March 29, 2012

Boat Slips For Rent/Sale

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 (Please provide your name and address) Or Online at: www.yourobserver.com/classifieds (No phone calls please.)

OHIO, THE Beautiful and Historic" by Charles Hopkins. First Impression, 1931, good condition. $95.00. 941-383-9211.

BOAT SLIP: Longboat Key Marina, 58x20, $122,000. Call Bob Baker, 941-704-4628.

PAINTING: BEER Can Island North End, with tall pines on beach, 18x24, $200.00. 941-383-0509.

POOL/PATIO FURNITURE: Two chaise lounges $75/ea. Two matching chairs, $25/ea.

941-383-5398.

PRIME WELL Tires: 2-195/60 R15 Less than 25 Miles! $80. Call 941-918-1593.

SEWING MACHINE: Singer Esteem 1732. New, never used. Orig. $288 Selling for $150 obo.

941-795-6452.

STEPHEN KING signed first edition copy "Under the Dome”, excellent condition. $125.00.

(941)927-1788.

TWO NEW Hammacher Schlemmer Bed Lounges, Cost $300. Asking $95. New Garmin GPS, $75.

941-383-8733.

Autos For Sale 1999 MERCEDES SL500, 2 Seat Convertible, Separate Hard Top. Only 34,806 Miles! White/Grey Leather, $15,000. 941-383-6417.

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 16,000 LB. Boat lift and Dock for Rent. Deep Water Canal, Gulf Access, 537 Yawl Lane, Longboat Key. $500/mo., 312-735-5193.

FOR SALE OR RENT, fantastic high and dry boat slip, superb S. Longboat location. Call 941-371-1866.

BRADENTON BOAT CLUB -- HIGH AND DRY STORAGE LONGBOAT AMENITIES WITH CORTEZ PRICING. Only $11.00 per ft., per month 12 months, $11.50 per ft, per month 6 months.

Located on Cortez Rd, 1600 ft. of the most beautiful, peaceful canal in West Florida, lands you in the Intercoastal waterway. Unlimited daily use of the facility and launching to include: engine flushing and boat washdown. Full mechanical service, Detailing Service and boat sales. COME SEE US NOW, 1st month $200.00 regardless of size of boat. We have grown 250% in the last year and will soon be at full capacity. Call 941-795-3625 doug@bradentonboatclub.com

Boats are selling very well. Excellent Display Location. Use our waterfront facility until boat is sold, many in less than 2 weeks. I keep it real simple. “Business on a Handshake”. Boats Needed 10K-100K+. I buy boats too. Island Boat Sales. 941-228-3489.

Garage/Moving/Estate Sales HUGE 3 DAY ESTATE SALE FRIDAY, MARCH 30, SATURDAY 31ST & APRIL 1ST. Numbers out at 8a.m.

Doors open 9a.m.-4p.m.

8433 Palm Lakes Ct. Sarasota, FL 34243 Over 25 clocks: Chelsea, Seth Thomas, Ithach calendar clock, grandfather clocks, extremely rare Simon Willard clock.

Over 85 Lladro, over 100 Swarovski crystal figurines, leather sofas, sterling silver, Tiffany & Co., 18 carat gold pocket watch: Ulysse Nardin. 5 sets of china: Royal Doulton, Minton, Rosenthal. Crystal chandeliers, bedroom furniture, listed artists’ art, period American furniture, clowns, bronze statues including Remington, antique nautical items, linens, Christmas items, beautiful bedroom suite, industrial kitchen cookware, David Winters Christmas collectibles, dining room tables, many Hummels including Large Rare Pieces. Russian silver egg, curio and china cabinets, lots of bric-a-brac, household full of furniture and garage packed with tools.

1994 Audi Cabriolet Convertible, 1999 3.2 TL Acura.

Homes For Rent 3 BED 3 bath Home, 900 feet from Siesta Beach access. $2900.00 month. 1st, last, and security.

Annual 941-320-6000.

HUGE AUCTION: 4/1/12 -1pm Something for Everyone! Lowest PRICES ever! Preview 3/31 (11-4pm) & 4/1 (12pm) 2044 Wholesale Warehouse 2044 47th St, Sarasota, 34234.

CONSIGNMENTS WELCOME! Info: 941-928-3447

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

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

Positions Wanted HHA/COMPANION AVAILABLE Caring, gentle and knowledgeable Home Health Aid/Companion available to care for your loved one. Over 18 years experience. CPR and first aid certified. Call 941-356-1712 and ask for Mary.

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

Free local phone, cable, Wi-Fi. Monthly rentals beginning May 2012. Contact owner at 615-376-9448.

BEACHPLACE, LBK. Casual beachfront living in 2BR/2BA, balcony condo. Olympic pool, health club, tennis courts. Available April through December, $1995/mo. Also available January through March, $4990/mo. Call for info. Contact Elizabeth/NYC. 212-570-2950.

For more details and pictures, go to: estatesales.net > Sarasota > Huge Estate Sale ***RARE*** or call Ken 941-356-3318

LBK: WATER view, boating. Beautiful 3BR/2BA. Elegantly renovated. Annual or Seasonal.

Also, Sarasota 2 Villas: 2BR/2BA. 941-383-7850, 941-927-9533.

Estate Sale conducted by Antiques & Chatchkes for more info: 941-356-3318

LONGBOAT HARBOUR 2012-2013 Season.

2BR/2BA, Bay View, Private Beach, Second floor.

Non-smoking. 3/mo. min. or Annual. No pets.

410-984-4435, andytanchel@verizon.net

VILLAGE-WIDE YARD SALE! Saturday, March 31. Ten sales within a few blocks. Come to the Village on the North end of Longboat Key; Pickup your treasure map from the peacock at the corner of Gulf of Mexico Drive and Broadway: Have Fun! 8am-1pm

General Merchandise FOR SALE: Wine Collection, 90 bottles. Opus 1, 1983-1992. Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, 1983-1989. Chateau Lafite 1987.

941-954-4567.

This week’s Sudoku answers

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

Clothes, jewelry, furniture, other items. 6140 Gulf of Mexico Drive. 941-383-4738.

Merchandise Wanted NEW OR Used Wanted to Buy, Kodak Carousel Slide Projector 760H. 941-383-4278.

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

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.

Observe

Condos For Sale DISCOVER THE OTHER ISLAND, Tidy Island in Sarasota Bay. Great Bay front townhouse, 2/2/2 plus loft. Pet friendly. $390,000. Katharine Pepper, Rosebay Real Estate. 802-363-9973.

Boats

BOATHOUSE ON Longboat unit for sale on east end, second level. $35,000, reasonable offers welcomed. Call Mike, 941-952-0308.

HOUSE CLASSIFIEDS LP # 56736

Announcements

LONGBOAT KEY - ON THE BEACH AT THE PIERRE: Fabulous views. 2,410 sq/ft. 2 bedroom plus den/convertible 3rd bedroom. 3 baths.

Available 5/1/2013 (not 2012) and thereafter.

3 month min. lease req'd. Annual lease from 5/1/13 also avail. 8th floor. Rare amenity- bldg has 3 guest suites on 1st floor rentable for tenant's overflow company. Photos: ebstulberg@gmail.com

Annual, Seasonal & Vacation Rentals Available Dependable rental & property management services.

Longboat/St. Armands 941.552.4200 Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch 941.552.4200 Sarasota/Siesta Key 941.552.4200 IMG Academies 941.752.2682 Heritage Oaks 941.926.8844

76785

Items Under $200 For Sale

michaelsaunders.com/rentals in The

FIND

IT!

Observer Classifieds This week’s Crossword answers

SPELL-BOUNDING FULL BAY VIEWS. Location is everything. Direct on the bay overlooking Ringling bridge and downtown Sarasota. Walking distance to downtown, St. Armands Circle and the Gulf beaches. Boating and fishing are only steps away.

2 bedroom condo, ground floor, covered parking, some furniture is available/unfurnished, boat dock included. Newly renovated pool. 55 and older community. No pets. $950/mo. annual. Tenant pays electric. Victoria Profetta at: 585-509-4136.

HOUSE CLASSIFIEDS LP # 56733

Condos For Sale BUTTONWOOD COVE. Lovely water views from beach to bay complex on LBK. 3BR end unit, 2 enclosed lanais, under building parking, deeded boat slip, pool and tennis. Just steps to Gulf and private beach park. Just listed. Priced to sell, $365,000. Michael Saunders & Co., Craig Abbott, 941-383-1990 or Sharon Freeman, 941-545-0899.

SUNNY SOUTHERN exposure, water views, boating and beach access. 2BR/2BA, new a/c & more in amenities-rich Longboat Key complex. $269,900. Sharon Freeman, 941-545-0899 Michael Saunders & Company.

2012

This week’s Cryptogram answers

1. A historian and a fortuneteller were discussing their professions. While the seer could not see too far ahead, the historian was mired in the past.

Both had a problem with time management.

2. Two crack managers were jousting over job status and pay levels. “I’m a captain of industry,” said one. “That’s nothing,” his rival fired back. “I’m a business major.”

what you are missing...

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Local News that’s LOCAL NEWS! YourObserver.com

Longboat Observer

THE Mindset Times THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012 Thursday, March 29, 2012

www.yourobserver.com

17B Classifieds B YourObserver.com

Homes For Rent

Vacation/Seasonal Rentals

Vacation/Seasonal Rentals

Adult Care Services

SIESTA KEY BEACH HOME FOR RENT Big 3,200+ sq ft, 4 bedrooms, 4 1/2 baths, Fireplace, Pool w/waterfall, Pavers. Tray ceilings, Granite counters in Gourmet kitchen. Separate Dining room. 4 good size bedrooms - 17x14, 21x15, 15x14, 13x12. Screened lanai.

Washer/dryer room. 2 car garage. Tile, wood and carpet flooring. Totally renovated in '06. Like new.

Freshly painted. Bike walk to beach and village.

Close to Out-of-Door Academy. In town Owner. $4,000/mo. Call Mark 203 979-4774.

392 FIREHOUSE Lane, LBK - Newer upscale Island home. Steps to beach & pool. Furn. 2BR + Loft. Annual or short term. No pets. No smoking.

Owner Agent. 941-544-0214.

SEAPLACE: 2BR/2BA, NON-SMOKING. Garden view, 2 parking spaces, queen MBR, twin beds 2nd BR, turnkey furnished. New A/C. Local phone service and all utilities included. Available September, 2012 through May, 2013. 2 month minimum. 3 months or longer, better rates. May be seen March 2012 or after. Call Saul Coplan, 941-727-4774 or 941-350-9843.

CAREGIVER: I have a 100% unique gift to share with you. I was a 24/7 caregiver for my mother through all stages of Alzheimer's until her recent death. I have a gift to give. Do you need me? Call Mark 941-524-7712.

Out-of-State Property ENERGY EFFICIENT, unique 2BR/1.5BA home on 7 well managed woodland acres, 1300 feet of road frontage and brook, in VERMONT. $450,000’s. See at: berrie@sucab.net or call (802)348-6613.

Out-Of-State Rentals BREVARD, NC Cool Mountaintop House with View. 2BR/3BA, Pet Friendly. No Smoking, $2,000/mo. Owner: 941-383-6844.

Real Estate Wanted

LBK BEACHFRONT 1BR & 3BR condos, heated pool, furnished. Starting at $1000 weekly.

Outrigger Resort, 941-383-3844.

LBK BEACHPLACE Condo. Beachfront, 2BR/2BA. Elegantly furnished, heated pool, tennis court, covered parking, exercise room. Available May-Dec., 2012. Non-smoking/ pets. By owner.

941-383-1884.

LBK SEAPLACE - Available January-April.

Lovely 2BR, fully equipped, W/D in unit, lanai, garden view, steps to beach, pool, tennis, full clubhouse amenities. Great! Non-smoking/pets.

770-314-6321.

Personalized attention with professional honest advice.

25 Years Experience - References available

LBK, C.C. SHORES. Gorgeous, beautifully furnished home, 3/2/2, W/D, heated pool, wireless highspeed internet, plasma TV, cable, lanai, dock and more. Walk to beach. No pets/ smoking.

Sleeps 5. $4000/mo. Owner, 941-504-1492.

LBK: SEASONALLY OR ANNUALLY: DROP DEAD GORGEOUS GULF VIEWS from every window of large, updated, handsomely decorated, 2BR/2BA condo right on beach.

Plasma TV. No Brokerage Fee. Available starting 2013 Season. Call 941-349-0432 or 941-284-2002.

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

Furnished, heated pool, covered parking. 1 mo. min. 941-383-3338.

Vacation/Seasonal Rentals

LIDO BEACH CONDOMINIUMS Weekly - Monthly - Seasonal

Exceptional Vacation Rentals Since 1994 Homes & Condominiums Studios to Six Bedrooms Beachfront, Intercoastal or Garden Excellent Service & Staff

Resort Properties, Inc. Licensed Real Estate Broker Full Service Condominium Management

WANTED LUXURY ANNUAL RENTALS For Qualified Waiting Clients Contact - Sarasota Luxury Rentals 941-356-5610 email: info@sarasotaluxuryrentals.com

FLORIDA VACATION CONNECTION www.FLvacationconnection.com 941-387-9709 877-705-2460

CASA DEL MAR BEACH RESORT RENTALS 4 NIGHT MIN. 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

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.

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

THE WESTCHESTER GULF FRONT 2BR/2BA, open, direct views, tennis court, 2 heated pools, steps away from the sand, breathtaking sunsets.

941-228-5671.

CERTIFIED HOME HEALTH AID: CPR Certified, Will take care of elderly and/or disabled person.

20 years experience, Excellent cook, specializing in European & Jewish cuisine. Call for more information, 941-955-0376 or 941-400-1963.

Auto Service WE WANT TO BUY YOUR VEHICLE!!!

Any Make, Any Model, Any Condition.

No Title - No Problem! Bank Lien - No Problem!

Paying up to $30,000 for Vehicles. Call AJ now at 813-335-3794 for a Free Quote or 813-531-4298.

Auto Transport TOWN HOUSE in SEAPLACE Condo, complete and nicely furnished 2BR/2.5BA, steps to the beach, spacious lanai+ terraces, full kitchen, living, dining area, beach club (sauna, gym, tennis, w/pool), walk out to the beach, breathtaking sunsets. Ask for pictures if interested. Rental: Jan.-May $3,950, June-Dec. $1,900, 2 mo. min.

Full year $2350/mo. mandalka@gmx.de

RETIRED LONGBOAT KEY police officer. Drive your car to the North and back. 941-713-1596.

SUNCOAST TRANSPORTER Long Distance Delivery.

“Snowbirds” I drive your car door to door!

One Inclusive price.

Mike 941-993-0236

Catering

WINDWARD BAY AVAILABLE MARCH 2013



SPECTACULAR Bay Views Throughout!

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

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

Waterfront Property NEW BAYFRONT VILLA'S On Longboat Key. Deeded beach access. Only 4 available starting in the low $200's. Best kept secret in a 55+ community. Owner says SELL! All reasonable offers will be considered. Financing Available! Dia Wilson, 941-284-3667. Leslie Russell, 941-330-7006.

Barrier Island Realty, Inc. PALMA SOLA BAY LAND: 3.9 acres of waterfront approved for 7 homes and 5 docks or use as a single estate. $1,499,000. Will consider exchange for income property or Sarasota waterfront home.

Marcia Wood, Broker, 941-350-2285.

BLUE DOLPHIN CAFE FRIDAY NIGHT DINNERS ARE BACK AT OUR LONGBOAT KEY CENTRE SHOPS LOCATION!!

FRIDAY **MARCH 30**

 LIVE MAINE LOBSTER  BLUE FIN CRAB CAKES  PRIME RIB  CRAB STUFFED SHRIMP ALL ENTREES SERVED WITH CHEF’S CHOICE STARCH & VEGETABLE

Adult Care Services 58 YEAR OLD female seeks live in/out companion position for healthy senior. Former Yacht Chef and Estate Manager homeowner, non-smoker, super healthy & fit able to travel/relocate with snowbird.

Providing healthy meal preparation, gardening, light house work, driving, entertaining, & lots of personalized attention. Jeanne (941)320-3537.

A LENDING HAND, INC. Caregivers/Companions, Hourly 24/7 Care, Transportation, Social Outings, Dr. Appts., Housekeeping, Meal preparation, Respite Care.

Phone: 941-809-3725

HOMEMADE PIES! AND MUCH MORE... JUST ASK...

FRIDAYS NOW OPEN 8A.M.-8P.M. FULL MENU AVAILABLE BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER

Find Treasure!

Ask about our special rates!

Wagner Realty Since 1939 www.wagnerrentals.com

FREE Wireless High Speed Internet

“Where People Return Year After Year” “INTENTIONALLY BETTER” BEACHPLACE 3BR, UPDATED, TASTEFULLY DECORATED. GULF & BAY VIEWS. CALL CYNTHIA 407-492-5749 BEACHFRONT LONGBOAT KEY CONDO Rare 3BR/2.5BA with beautiful views of Gulf of Mexico. Remodeled kitchen and baths, W/D, pool, tennis, spa, photos available. lburton177@aol.com or 941-953-3438 BEACH FRONT SUNSET BEACH, LBK. 2BR/2BA. Pool, spa. No pets. 2-3 mo. rental. Available May-Dec., 2012. Jan-March 2013. 248-330-7675.

BAYFRONT, LBK: Longboat Arms, 2BR/2BA, updated, nicely decorated, clean, fully furnished condo, high speed Internet, heated pool, tennis court, fantastic water views from 30ft screened/glass enclosed lanai, private beach access steps away. Available May 2012 through April 2013. Monthly rates starting at $2500.

603-692-6445 or saf3009@gmail.com

WEEKLY RENTALS. Luxurious, fully furnished 1 - 4 bedrooms. Condominiums and Cottages.

Beach to Bay. On-site management. Pools, tennis, boat slips. Visit: www.FloridaRent.com for information and virtual tours. 800-333-7335, 941-383-3117.

RARELY AVAILABLE RESORT STYLE LIVING Private beach, tennis, heated pools, 2BR/2BA, Whitney Beach, Longboat Key, downstairs, Bayou/ dock frontage.

941-724-3519 PLAYERS CLUB - Direct Gulf! Upscale 2BR/3BA. Available December 1st. No smoking. 4 month minimum. 847-634-1991.

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.

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

Available January 1 - April 30. $6500/mo. By owner, 860-633-3545 or 860-633-2502.

LONGBOAT KEY. Gulf front, heated pool on beach, 1BR/1BA condo, full kitchen, dining, sleeps/4, king pillowtop. 617-328-7145, 857-939-1049.

383-3787 CALL FOR RESERVATIONS BEER & WINE AVAILABLE

Reserved Space LP Reserved Space

Want to find a great deal on something you’ve always dreamed of?

You never know what you’ll find in the classifieds!

Your source for local Classifieds

LV1247

SIESTA KEY: Great updated Old Florida Home on Heron Lagoon. New Kitchen with Granite Counter, Gourmet Gas Range, Screened Pool, Dock on Lagoon, Walkway over Lagoon to Private Beach with Cabana. Great for entertaining!!

2+Bedrooms, 2 1/2 Baths, Unfurnished, W/D, Annual Lease. $3,200/mo. MLS#83956841 Owner/Agent Call 941-809-6760.

BAYFRONT CONDO- PANORAMIC VIEWS: LBK 2BR/2BA + Den, Pelican Harbour & Beach Club Available 2012 & 2013, Seasonal or Yearly.

Private Beach, Pool, Tennis, Dock.

Call: 513-608-4320. richwoodkids@hotmail.com DIRECT GULF FRONT at Beachplace: 2BR/2BA, nicely furnished, wireless internet. Available December 2012 through December 2013.

Non-smoking. Call Diane or Mike 847-913-4562.

IMMACULATE, FURNISHED, 2BR/2BA, 1 car garage, pool home in Venice. Close to everything.

Book now for next Season at discount rates. Lots of other properties also available. 941-441-7120 or 800-568-0806.

Longboat Observer

www.yourobserver.com Home Improvement/ Remodeling Home Improvement/ Remodeling

BEST CLEANING Best Price. Do Not Miss This!

Call Joan Today, 941-445-5844.

TILE TILE TILE

BEST HOUSECLEANING Great Price.

Experienced. My Promise - You WILL Be Satisfied!

Call Robin (941) 225-9854

All Variations of Ceramic Tile Supplied & Installed.

Free Estimates & Custom Designs.

HANDYMAN EXTRAORDINAIRE Reliable & Prompt. 25 Years Experience 5 Years in Bradenton Area. Flooring, Masonry, Doors, Carpentry and Water Damage ... etc. Call Scott at 941-536-1770. scottmwoolf1@gmail.com

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL CLEANING. Move-ins and move-outs. Also, assist with estate sales. Free estimates. 941-465-9836.

Expert Marble & Travertine Installation Floor & Walls

ISLE TILE

Computer Services

Grout Cleaning & Sealing Service Available

FOR “QUALITY AND EXPERIENCE�

Cmagik - LBK resident, servicing our island year round for over 12 yrs. Bachelors Degree with 20 yrs. experience, PC or MAC. Professional help with computers, iPad/iPhones and tutoring.

References upon request.

Call Cort: 383-3878, 587-5588 cmagik.com OWN A MAC/IPHONE/IPAD? MacTutor offers 21 years experience. Unlimited free telephone follow up. (941)812-3887 www.FLMacTutor.com

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

Floors, bathrooms, showers, backsplashes, patio and pool decks.

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT HOME MAINTENANCE AND ALL REPAIRS Painting/ Power Washing, Roof Leaks/ Coatings, Cleaning Services Excellent service. 30 years experience.

941-962-4867 Cell 941-383-5765 Home LBK Resident

Licensed/Insured

BOAT SERVICES

79076

SMS Mobile Marine Service *36 )LVKILQGHU ,QVWDOODWLRQ ‡ 2XWERDUGV , 2ªV ‡ ,QERDUGV Call for appointment ‡ 941-232-3523 CERTIFIED & INSURED

CAREGIVER/COMPANION

CNA/Home Health Aid 1st Class Caregiver

Telephone: 941-749-5646 yourbookkeeper@tampabay.rr.com

Painting/Wallpapering

Pet Services

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.

DOGGY HOTEL. 24 Hour Daycare. Brown Avenue near Bee Ridge and 41 behind Sleep King (new owner). First day FREE. Grooming by Mark.

Meet and greet and get a treat. 941-554-4620.

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

PERSONAL SHOPPER: Grocery shopping, errands, pet sitting/ walking, house watching.

Excellent references. LBK resident. 941-685-7072.

Want Some Mad Money?

LV2654

Sell Your Item for Free! $200 or less www.YourObserver.com/classifieds

MOVERS

SCOTT WOOLF HANDYMAN EXTRAORDINAIRE 31 Years Experience, Prompt, Reliable Service, I Call Back My Customers, Keep My Appointments, AND Your Satisfaction is My Goal.

359-1904

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Call Anytime

We sell boxes!

941-536-1770

scottmwoolf1@gmail.com

Caring, Compassionate, Gentle and Kind Caregiver Provides activities of daily living, errands, shopping, transportation & light meal prep.

U.S. DOT No. 1915800

Dave McCarthy

79077

General Contractor Specializing in Kitchen & Bath Remodeling

“Will move anything from a couch to a household�

Free at home consultation National Brands, Competitive Pricing Limited Lifetime Warranty Seasonal Discounts

Lighthouse Renovations www.lightreno.com

LOCAL - LONG DISTANCE FREE ESTIMATES ) # # s $/4 &, -/6%23 )-

Dave McCarthy Operator/Owner

GROW YOUR BUSINESS Bullseye!

Reach a Targeted Audience

79079

941-955-4888

Hire “Your Very Own Assistant�

MASONRY

Judith A. Merkt

European Masonry, LLC

BSA, Inc. 2IÀFH ‡ &HOO www.yourveryownassistant.com

(Bonded & Insured)

( PDLO MDPHUNW#FRPFDVW QHW

Specializing in Brick and Stone Work Cement Finish and General Masonry Work

FURNITURE REPAIR

PATIO REPAIRS, INC PATIO REPAIRS 77987 38056

FurnitureSales Sales &&Repairs Furniture Repairs #USHIONS s 3LINGS s 2E POWDERCOATING #USHIONS s 3LINGS s 5MBRELLAS

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Providing personal and administrative assistance to individuals & small businesses‌a reliable and skilled resource ready and able to attack your “to-doâ€? list.

Let me help you get things done!

Take Control of Y our Life!

in the Service Directory The Observer Service Directory Call today toCall advertise 955-4888 955-4888 to advertise.

Team Up With Classifieds

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

PERSONAL SERVICES

CGC1507388 Lawrence Barnett (941)526-7750

Make Your Phone Ring

941-400-7338

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Pavers, Stone Decks and Patios Driveways, Walkways and Retainer Walls Sarasota, FL Sergio Lourenco

Fully Licensed and Insured

MO V I N G

KITCHEN/BATH REMODELING

COMPUTER

941-504-0903

BONDED & INSURED Over 25 yrs. experience

HANDYMAN

DOCKSIDE BOAT REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE

BillMyCaregiver.com

Bill Paying & Account Reconciliation Organizing Personal and Business Files Budgets & Financial Reports Federal and State Tax Returns

Personal Services

Go online to place your classified ad. www.yourobserver.com Ready When You Are – Classified Ads, The Way to Sell

,ICENSED s )NSURED s "ONDED

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RICK STEAKLEY PAINTING. Interior/Exterior.

Pressure Washing. Wallpaper Removal. Drywall Repairs. Reasonable. Reliable. Professional.

30+/years experience. References available.

Free Estimates.

Lic./Ins. 941-228-7605, rlsteakley@comcast.net

Reserved Space LP Reserved Space

Bill Spence 941-993-7994

I come to your home or office.

Classified Ads Bring Results 941-955-4888

78520

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Personal & Business Bookkeeping Accounting/ Taxes

69127

DID WE get your attention? You bet we did!

The out with COLOR. Make your adinstand Observer Classifieds Only in The Observer Classifieds.

Call 941-955-4888 to advertise.

YOUR PERSONAL BOOKKEEPER, LLC Gail Sunray, Owner

20 years design background.

Licensed - Insured - LBK Resident References upon request.

941-383-2659

JOHN GUBERNAT SERVICES

QUICK, EASY, Affordable Training. Microsoft Certified Trainer. QuickBooks advisor. LBK Resident. Call 941-383-9458.

Personal Services

77234

Cleaning

THE Mindset Times THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012 Thursday, March 29, 2012

78079

B Classifieds

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78567

18B

Independently Owned and Operated Franchise

941-755-6300

Sarasota.MrRooter.com 77142

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FREE Appraisals Throughout Sarasota Until April 30, 2012 Will travel Florida to Maine and all points in between phone 941.554.4657 email LFrankRonald@aol.com

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Diversions YourObserver.com

reel deal

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

by Heidi Kurpiela | A&E Editor

Heidi Kurpiela

“It’s no simple task,” says Sarasota Film Festival President Mark Famiglio of the job of director Tom Hall, above. “The sheer volume of movies you have to watch, oh my lord. It’s so difficult. It’s like an avalanche that rolls over you.”

Independent Streak Sure, Tom Hall gets to pick what you see at the Sarasota Film Festival, but that doesn’t mean he watches movies and chats with stars all days. The SFF director paints us a (motion) picture of his job.

Tom Hall is answering and deleting emails, clearing his head with each reply and trashed piece of spam.

He’s sitting at a desk on the second floor of the Sarasota Film Festival

offices — a 1926 bungalow on Cocoanut Avenue converted into the festival’s downtown headquarters — looking almost mechanical in his efforts to keep his inbox uncluttered.

When he’s through with this task, a look of satisfaction registers on his face. There’s comfort in knowing he has zero messages vying for his attention, even if the moment is fleeting.

COVER STORY CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

INSIDE

KITCHEN CLASSICS Joseph Holt spends hours in the kitchen perfecting dishes / 8

Black Tie THE SOCIAL OBSERVER

Ringling College of Art and Design: ‘An Evening at the Avant-Garde’ PAGES 9-10

BACKSTAGE PASS Skyspace exhibit / 4-5

2 ■ Diversions

COVER STORY

“I’m too anal retentive to just let it pile up,” Hall says, stepping away from the all-too familiar glow of his computer screen.

By the time this interview is over, there will be a dozen more emails to sort through. And Hall, who this season was promoted to festival director, will have another 12 hours left to his workday.

With the festival just two weeks away, the SFF staff is operating in high gear. Phones incessantly are ringing, merchandise is being disseminated, hotel accommodations are being made, and film guides are piling up.

“As a style of working, I like it,” Hall says of the March rush. “You can hyper focus. But you can’t obsess over the films, because it’s a finite thing. You either meet your deadlines or you don’t. It’s not like meeting quarterly with stockholders.”

Actually, meeting quarterly with stockholders sounds less stressful.

A part-time Sarasota resident, Hall has more on his mind than just movies.

Back home in Brooklyn, N.Y., his wife, Jessica, is nine months pregnant with their second child, a boy, due the week after the festival.

“Apparently I’m crappy at family planning,” Hall says dryly. “I’m going to go from no sleep to no sleep.”

Hired in 2004 as the festival’s director of programming, the 41-year-old Michigan native steadily climbed to the top of the festival food chain.

One of only a handful of yearround staffers, Hall was promoted in 2010 to artistic director. Two seasons later, it was announced

■

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

(continued from page 1)

IF YOU GO

The Sarasota Film Festival runs April 13 through April 22. Tickets are available at the SFF box office inside the Hollywood 20 lobby. For more information, call 364-9514 or visit sarasotafilmfestival.com. that he would serve as director, a promotion festival president and board Chairman Mark Famiglio says was a no-brainer.

“The most appetizing thing about Tom Hall is watching him operate in a staff meeting three weeks before the festival,” Famiglio says. “He’s not just a movie geek. He’s a great manager. He’s organized, and he cares deeply about the independent film community.”

Hall grew up in Flint, Mich., where he spent much of his childhood hanging out in mall movie theaters.

His parents were avid card players. To keep their two sons occupied during bridge games, they would drop them off a nearby multiplex, where Hall and his younger brother would slip between movies all day.

Technically, it was illegal, but the theater employees found the kids so endearing, they turned a blind eye to the sneakiness. As a result, Hall watched more R-rated movies in the 1970s than most adults three times his age.

“It really shaped my youth,” he says with a chuckle. “Flint wasn’t exactly an arts and cultural hotbed. Watching all those movies as a kid — it’s one of the main reasons why I got into film.”

This also explains his movie-

viewing fortitude.

This year, he and fellow programmers, Magida Diouri and Caley Fagerstrom, screened more than 1,000 independent films.

From this glut they selected 235 projects — a combination of narrative live action and animated features, shorts and documentaries gleaned from attending other festivals and viewing hundreds of filmmaker submissions.

“Ninety-five percent of what plays in our festival will probably never play in Sarasota again,” Hall says. “It’s really like a curatorial process. You’re putting brackets around a year, and you’re saying, ‘Here’s what’s interesting now.’

There’s so much stuff out there it’s impossible for people to see it all.

As a curator you want people to trust you. We have a diverse audience, and I’m casting a wide net.”

As the festival’s gatekeeper, Hall has the final say on every piece of cinema. This responsibility is one of the best and worst parts of the job.

“It’s heartbreaking,” Hall says of rejecting films. “We said yes to 235 people and no to 800.”

And, then, there’s the matter of star wattage.

To the average mainstream moviegoer, the Sarasota Film Festival is a glittery, red carpet event that draws celebrities to the area. Last year it was Christopher Plummer, Geena Davis and Harry Connick Jr. This year it’s Frank Langella.

To Hall, the fixation on celebrities is a nuisance.

The consummate professional, Hall says he could care less about the celebrity status of his festival attendees.

In fact, in eight years he’s only

Frank Langella in “Robot & Frank.”

Courtesy photo

POPULAR MECHANICS After watching “Robot & Frank” warm the hearts of moviegoers at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, Sarasota Film Festival director Tom Hall embarked on a serious mission to bring the movie and its star, Frank Langella, to Sarasota.

Directed by Todd Solondz, the movie is a touching and unlikely buddy comedy set in been star struck twice: when the festival hosted documentary filmmaker Werner Herzog and actress/director Liv Ullmann, both of whom Hall had admired for years.

“People make a big deal about the getting a major star, but I’ve never thought about it like that,” he says. “I’m passionate about their work and interested in what they’re doing, but hobnobbing? I wouldn’t even use that word.”

This doesn’t mean he’s jaded. He’s just too studious to get caught up in the glitz and glam-

the not-so-distant future.

Langella stars as an aging jewel thief who bonds with his caretaker robot (voice by actor Peter Sarsgaard).

“We knew it was perfect for Sarasota,” Hall says. “I only hope people cast aside any preconceptions they might have about it. It’s a touching movie and a real crowd-pleaser.” our of the thing, a character trait his colleagues are well aware of, especially Famiglio.

“He visited us at the Nantucket Film Festival last year,” Famiglio says. “We couldn’t even get Tom to hang out and have lunch because he was stuck in movie theaters all day. He’s totally committed to viewing and analyzing every film.

He lives and breathes it.”

Watch the trailer for “Robot & Frank.” www.YourObserver.com

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■

Diversions

YourObserver.com

■

3

COLUMN

art scene HEARD

+ Jersey Shore musician rocks on in Sarasota

by Heidi Kurpiela | A&E Editor

+ SeaFair art yacht drops anchor in Sarasota Get your sea legs and appreciate fine art at once?

Sounds like the perfect double whammy to me. SeaFair, the $40 million mega yacht that doubles as an art gallery, docked this week at Marina Jack.

At 228 feet, it’s the largest commercial ship on the Intracoastal Waterway and the world’s first mobile yacht venue.

Last season it turned into a floating cultural hub when it opened its cabin doors to local artists and collectors. This year will likely be no different thanks to a program that includes artist receptions and lectures.

This year it’s back with a collection of paintings, sculpture, photography, glass, contemporary design, jewelry and sitespecific installations.

Its inventory even includes a rare Joan Miro painting valued at $750,000 and a Paul Klee work worth $1.2 million.

(Apparently you can fit a lot in a mega yacht.) Mainstream contemporary works by Warhol, Lichenstein, Indiana and Bacon will also be for sale.

On a local level, the fair will feature work by Sarasota artists Florence Putterman and Alina Eydel, designer and craftsman Phil Stapleton and furniture designer Chad Jensen.

SeaFair will be open from noon to 7 p.m. March 30 to April 2. Tickets are $20 at the door; $25 for a multi-day ticket; and $30 for a priority boarding ticket. For a complete schedule of events, call 239-949-5411 or visit expoships.com.

Guitarist/singer Robert Garcia recently left New Jersey to lay down roots in Sarasota, where his covers of classic rock songs will be fully appreciated at area watering holes.

“It appeals to a specific demographic,” Garcia says. “Forty-five to 60-year-olds is the real sweet spot — any older

for 4:30 p.m. April 1, at Pelican Alley in Nokomis and 6 p.m. April 1, at the Blue Owl in downtown Sarasota. Typical of a Gulf Coast newcomer, he thinks he can get from Nokomis to downtown Sarasota in 30 minutes … in the middle of season.

Best of luck to you, Rob. Oh, and welcome to Sarasota.

Courtesy photo

Robert Garcia

+ New Opera House name a noted tribute In a generous move, Casiana Schmidt, wife of William Schmidt, announced Sunday at the 30th anniversary party of Maestro Victor DeRenzi that she and her husband were “relinquishing” the name of the Sarasota Opera’s theater, known for the past several years as The William F. Schmidt Opera Theater, and renaming it “The Verdi Theater.” The Schmidts said they were doing this to honor deRenzi’s 30th anniversary as artistic director of Sarasota Opera and because it is the only opera house in the world that will have performed every note Verdi wrote.

DeRenzi set out to perform every opera, song, instrumental, chamber and choral work Verdi composed, and he has almost accomplished his goal. Although a few other opera companies have attempted to perform all of Verdi’s operas, no one, to date, has presented the composer’s entire output of music.

+ Downtown bayfront embraces diversity

“Where Do You Fit In?” by Ella Emmett, Dalton Jett, Sara Martin and Palmer Mays

and you typically get people who like more of a big band/swing type of sound.”

Since arriving in town this month, Garcia has been busy booking gigs from Punta Gorda to Bradenton Beach. He’s currently in the midst of knocking out 23 performances in nine days.

His next two are slated

I never thought I loved billboards until “Embracing Our Differences” splashed the Sarasota bayfront with colossal art celebrating diversity.

These billboards, with their messages of acceptance, love and self-esteem, were a muchwelcome addition to Island Park.

Now in its ninth year, the campaign, which last year attracted 277,000 people, has grown into a major exhibition, drawing submissions from student artists all over the word.

This year more than 4,502 submissions poured in from 53 different countries.

You think Sarasota Film Festival director Tom Hall (see this week’s Diversions cover story)

has a tough job? Try choosing 39 entries out of 4,000 submissions.

The exhibit runs April 1 through May 28.

Look for work by students at Lakewood Ranch, Booker and Riverview high schools, as well as Phillippi Shores Elementary, Pine View School and Out-of-Door Academy.

“Where Do You Fit In?” by Phillippi Shores second-graders

File photo

Ella Emmett, Dalton Jett, Sara Martin and Palmer Mays should do art teacher Petie Brown proud.

Created using paper doll cutouts, the project not only required collaboration, it tackled such meaty topics as bullying, isolation, fun with friends and being different.

To see more EOD art, visit embracingourdifferences.org.

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YourObserver.com

BACKSTAGE PASS

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

by Heidi Kurpiela | A&E Editor

Photo by Giovanni Lunardi, courtesy of James Turrell

“Joseph’s Coat” is artist James Turrell’s first and only Florida Skyspace exhibit. It’s also his largest.

Sky-high Worship In an effort to find a little peace and quiet, my husband and I hit up the Ringling Museum’s new Skyspace exhibit. What we found was more peace and quiet than two antsy people could handle.

Funny how a hole in the ceiling can change your perspective.

As I write this, I’m trying to conjure up the peace I felt last week, when I stretched out on my back and stared at the sky for an hour as it shifted from baby blue to black.

■

I can’t remember the last time I sat that still for that long, doing and saying absolutely nothing — a personal feat that was as miraculous as the view.

What was it that elicited this calm? And even more pressing:

Why was my husband, with his restless leg syndrome, experiencing a similar ease?

For these answers I suggest you go see James Turrell’s Skyspace exhibit at the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art.

The photo you see at left, which, by the way, is one of only two images Turrell will let you see of the space, doesn’t do it justice.

Similarly, neither will this story. But I’ll try.

As some of you know, last summer I had my first baby. He’s about 10 months old now, which means a new sense of normalcy has settled over my household.

Quiet, contemplative pursuits, such as watching the sunset with my husband, have taken a backseat to bathing, diapering and feeding a child whose favorite activities include screeching and throwing Tupperware.

Rather than accept a fate devoid of tranquility, I decided to meet it head-on inside the zen confines of Turrell’s new Skyspace.

To share in my solitude, I brought my frazzled husband, who coincidentally shares a name with the space: Joseph.

(Turrell named the installation “Joseph’s Coat,” presumably after a certain Technicolor jacket.)

Viewing it during the sunset light program had been on my bucket list since singer Meklit Hadero revealed during her performance this season at the Ringling International Arts Festival that a similar Skyspace inspired the first track on her latest album.

“Walk up, walk up, straight through the roof, straight through the hole in the ceiling, take your place in the sky … ” Dreamy and atmospheric, the song had me hooked before the refrain. I couldn’t wait to take my place in the sky.

As instructed by the museum staff, we arrived 30 minutes prior to sunset. The sun was still blind-

IF YOU GO “Joseph’s Coat” may be viewed at the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art during normal museum hours.

The exhibit’s sunset light program runs Thursday through Sunday. Tickets are $5. Arrive 30 minutes prior to sunset.

Reservations are recommended. For more information, call 358-3180 or visit ringling.org. ing as we walked from the visitors pavilion to the Searing Wing.

At 3,000 square feet, I knew “Joseph’s Coat” was Turrell’s largest Skyspace to date and the only one of its kind in Florida. I knew it had a 35-foot-high canopy, a square aperture in the ceiling and a central viewing area surrounded by columns.

Although I’d written about the space before and once toured it during museum hours, I was told the sunset program, an hour-long “show” complete with synchronized LED lights, was a mystical wonder and hard to describe unless you saw it in person.

I purposely avoided reading any reviews of it so I could experience it with an open mind. For all I knew, it was highbrow version of a Pink Floyd laser light show.

I couldn’t have been more wrong.

A dozen or so people were spread out on yoga mats and blankets, gazing quietly at the open ceiling, like alien believers waiting to be beamed up to their mothership.

I instantly wished I’d brought a blanket. My husband wished he’d brought his iPod. The silence was deafening.

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Diversions

YourObserver.com

BACKSTAGE PASS

Courtesy of Florian Holzherr

James Turrell has spent decades turning a volcanic crater outside of Flagstaff, Ariz., into an observatory for skylight, solar and celestial phenomenon.

We took a spot on the benches surrounding the center and began the tedious process of waiting. Because we had arrived 30 minutes before sunset, we had to wait 30 minutes for the show to begin.

Far more important than having a blanket is having patience.

Watching the sun set in “Joseph’s Coat” is not like popping the cork on a bottle of wine and watching it with your friends on the beach.

Communing with nature is not a party.

The first set of lights was so subtle, we weren’t even sure the show had begun.

Had we eaten dinner earlier, we might have been more patient.

“I think it started,” I whispered in Joe’s ear.

“I feel like I’m in a Roman fighting arena,” he whispered back.

Our stomachs were growling like angry beasts.

Some of the people on blankets were doing yoga. The rest were motionless, evidently better suited for rumination than my husband and I.

“Stop shaking your leg,” I whispered.

“It’s shaking the whole bench.”

It was distracting, but not nearly as distracting as the old guy across the room that repeatedly cleared phlegm from his throat.

I decided the hippies on the floor were on to something, so I stretched out on the bench, plopping my feet on Joe’s lap and my head on my purse. It wasn’t a comfortable position, but it significantly changed the way I saw the aperture.

The sky was periwinkle at this point.

Birds were gliding past. The clouds looked like vapors shifting like veils of fine cotton from left to right, a slow procession, like the trail of a wedding gown sliding down a church aisle.

Every so often I’d hear an airplane buzzing in the distance and each time the sound got louder I prayed it would cut through my piece of the sky.

I squinted my eyes and blurred the edges of the canopy out of focus so that the sky and the ceiling bled into one. Putting brackets around the sky forces you to focus on it. Manipulating it with washes of color turns it into art.

I let go.

When the lights really kicked into high gear, flooding the canopy with a slow succession of pinks and oranges, greens and purples, I exhaled so loudly I think I rattled the yogis.

My mind grew quiet. Where once I heard throat clearing, I heard white noise, a soft nothing.

For 45 more minutes I lay this way.

It was at once serene and powerful, comforting and eerie. I felt infinitesimal in all the best ways. I felt as my son must have felt the first time he stared at a mobile.

Awestruck.

Unbelievably, Joe was also still. I smiled.

We had achieved peace.

When the program ended and the house lights came on, I turned to my silent other half with curiosity.

“You were so zen,” I said sweetly.

“Yeah,” he replied. “I was asleep.”

■

5

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THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

REVIEWS

THEATER >> ‘Hamlet, Prince of Cuba’

Courtesy Photo

Tilda Swinton gives a powerful performance as the mother of boy who becomes a mass murderer.

FILM

From the onset, Eva believes she has given birth to a monster. Kevin’s incessant wailing, refusal to talk, continuing to wear diapers until the age of 6 and tormenting his little >> ‘We Need sister (to the point of putting out her eye) have little effect on husband to Talk About Kevin’ I was literally shaking upon exiting Franklin (John C. Reilly). As Kevin develops into a full-blown, manipulathe theater after having seen “We tive psychopath, Eva’s fears intensify.

Need to Talk About Kevin.” Was it Meanwhile, Franklin buys the kid the powerfully disturbing subject matter or the masterful performance a bow and arrow. They never talk

by Tilda Swinton that caused it? I’m about Kevin.

After the massacre, Eva chooses still not certain. to remain in the town where it In this fascinating piece of filmoccurred. It almost seems an act making, Swinton plays a mother of penance on her part for hav(Eva) who desperately attempts to bond, relate and love her son, Kevin ing brought Kevin into this world.

Everyone hates her. She endures (played respectively by Rock Duer, Jasper Newell and Ezra Miller). The violent confrontations by the victims’ parents, paint being thrown on her battle begins at conception and house and car and venomous verbal continues after he becomes a mass murderer. Everything that happens in attacks. Eva retreats from reacting ... between is presented in rapid flash- it’s her cross to bear.

Director Lynne Ramsay backs (Swinton’s coiffures are key in (“Ratcatcher”) pulls out all the following the sequence of events).

stops, creating textured visuals to intensify the horror. She employs the color red in almost every shot. In an opening sequence, Eva is participating in Spain’s La Tomatina tomato tossing festival. It’s so trippy to behold, you can’t believe what you’re seeing. Red paint, red wine, red jam, red soup cans most certainly represent the blood she believes to have on her hands.

“We Need to Talk About Kevin” is a film that feels so real, it hurts to watch. At times, I felt myself squirming at what was playing out on screen. The magnificent Academy Award winner Swinton (“Michael Clayton”) is overwhelmingly responsible for elevating this film to greatness. Her portrayal of a tortured soul is the best performance I’ve seen in ages.

“We Need to Talk About Kevin” is a film that doesn’t preach, judge or give answers. It’s a work of art.

— Pam Nadon

Michael Donald Edwards’ brilliant adaptation of Shakespeare’s familiar “Hamlet” succeeds at sparking an almost edge-of-your-seat renewal of appreciation of the Bard’s genius. Without the barrier of iambic pentameter and archaic grammar, familiar phrases leap out in surprising ambush. Shakespeare’s lyricism and microscopically introspective speech flash like jewels strewn unexpectedly on a velvety smooth, highly accessible plotline. Edwards’ direction creates an immediacy that leaves no room for coughing, shifting in one’s seat or mumbling, “Alas, poor Yorick,” under one’s breath.

Set in fin de siecle, 1900s Cuba, the story of a son’s revenge of the death of his father is especially apt for the Spanish culture. Beyond that, the choice of a Cuban setting has no particular relevance to the play and is represented by lovely Latin music, composed

by Fabian Obispo, enjoyable period costume design by Clint Ramos and an ingenious set design incorporating dramatic, huge industrial-looking fans high in the rustic backdrop.

The lighting design by Anthony Pearson, specifically the long rows of large cam lights, struck a false over-the-top note for me

If You Go

“Hamlet, Prince of Cuba” runs through May 6 at the Asolo Repertory Theatre. Tickets are $28 to $74. Call 351-8000.

when used to dramatize unfolding events.

Frankie J. Alvarez is astonishing as Hamlet. His portrayal is a dynamic infusion of mime, jest, grief, confusion and physical contortion into the body of an overwrought, intellectual teenager. When engaged in dialogue with other actors, he is so utterly convincing and riveting in his inflection and manner that I found it hard to take my eyes off him. The soliloquies, however, seemed disconnected from the rest of his performance. He appeared uncomfortable, and it made me feel that he’d be better off directing the soliloquies to the audience, as in the traditional Shakespearean “aside.”

Out of a stellar cast, Mercedes Herrero, as Gertrude; Andhy Mendez, as Laertes; Gisela Chipe, as Ophelia; Luke Bartholomew, as Horatio; and Jake Staley and Jon-Michael Miller, as Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, stand out admirably. In dual roles, Douglas Jones shines as he embodies both a loving father and a people-pleasing facilitator as Polonius and a sardonic, saltof-the-earth, commentator on life as the Gravedigger.

— Paula Atwell

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are as cold and austere as the people who populate them.

Then, as sleigh bells rise from the orchestra pit, there he is. Anatol (Scott Piper) has returned. But it’s not Vanessa’s Anatol. He’s dead, and his son has come in his stead. >> Sarasota Opera: ‘Vanessa’ Piper’s Anatol is a young, vigorous and Waiting. That’s the theme of Samuel opportunistic cad with the voice of an angel.

Barber’s “Vanessa,” a melodramatic soapOf course Erika is bewitched, besotopera-of-an-opera, with a libretto by Gian ted and, after being swept into bed with Carlo Menotti that touches on our deepest him, bewildered as she watches her aunt, vulnerabilities, anxieties and insecurities.

Vanessa, tumble into the past only to fall in “Vanessa” had its world premiere in love with this new Anatol, as well.

1958 at the Metropolitan Opera with a starThis is where the Menotti theatrical touch studded cast that included Eleanor Steber, begins, taking us into Sondheim-like tiers Rosalind Elias, Nicolai Gedda, Regina of passions and plots, populated by double Resnik and Giorgio Tozzi. Critics have called meanings and multi-layered depths. Is Erika it the greatest American opera. too entrenched in her solitude to love? Does We’ve been waiting, impatiently, for this she refuse Anatol’s proposal because she voluptuous, darkly human American classic sees through him or because she knows her to arrive, and, this season, Sarasota Opera Aunt Vanessa loves him? Is her decision to has given us a “Vanessa” that radiates abort the baby they’ve created in their one bleakness and pathos in a way only grand night of passion selfish or altruistic? opera can embrace tragedy and suffering.

Does Vanessa, as she slips into love with Vanessa (Kara Shay Thomson) has been Anatol, realize what a self-seeking, egoistic waiting for Anatol to return to her. She’s scoundrel he is, or is Anatol really somebeen waiting for 20 years! (That’s longer thing of an anti-hero because he, finally, than Butterfly pined for Pinkerton.) Her own gets Vanessa to leave that house of gloom mother, The Old Baroness, hasn’t spoken and enter a world that’s no longer filled with to her in all those years because she won’t waiting? speak with people who live a lie. Erika And why is The Old Baroness so stuck (Audrey Babcock), Vanessa’s 20-year-old in her north country Victorianism that she niece, the granddaughter of the Baroness, can’t see her way to love those around her? is living in this house of darkness, where Stiff-necked and rigid, once she learns her paintings and mirrors are covered. Their only beloved Erika has purposely aborted her visitors are The Old Doctor (Thomas Potter), baby, she returns to her silence, never to Nicholas, the Major-Domo, (Stephen Fish), speak to her niece, just as she cannot bring and their Footman (Andrew Kroes). herself to utter a sound to her own daughter, Waiting for love, undefined, unbridled, Vanessa. unprotected, precarious and perilous is what Relieving this stony silence, Barber’s “Vanessa” is about. Thomson’s Vanessa is music gives us the warmth that inspires justly neurotic and unfulfilled. Her gloriously hope. His soaring, meltingly beautiful melorich soprano conveys the beauty she’s condies sit atop newer harmonies, giving life cealed in her heart, but her ramrod straight to a musical language that raises opera’s spine tells a story of a spinster spurned. emotional ceiling. The hymn he incorporates Waiting. in the second act, with its rhythmic meter Sadler’s Old Baroness is the unyielding, changes, takes Menotti’s text to ultimate unforgiving, stiff-necked Victorian creature heights, exploring the questions swirling Menotti envisioned, but her rich, warm around the lives of the characters. The docmezzo belies a woman inhabited by frustra- tor’s aria, composed at the last minute, is tion. filled with lyricism. And his glorious quintet Babcock, as Erika, begins as a young in the finale is as grand as opera can get. woman who’s lived between two frigidly None of this would be possible without frightened spinsters who won’t yield an inch the commanding vocal and dramatic perof their disappointment in life. She’s waitformances of Thomson, Babcock, Sadler, ing for her spring. “Must the winter come Piper and Potter. Director Michael Unger so soon,” Barber’s soaring aria for Erika, is has given us characters we can take home glorious in its iciness. and ponder. And conductor David Neely has Waiting, the women stare out the windows held it all together with an incredibly musiof their drawing room onto a woodland of cal, vibrant orchestral sound that’s always coldly dancing snow deftly designed by supportive, never overpowering and sensiMichael Schweikardt and frostily lit by Ken tively powerful.

Yunker. The icy blues and grays of their sets — June LeBell

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8 ■ Diversions

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THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

KITCHEN CLASSICS By June LeBell | Contributing columnist

JOSEPH HOLT

RECIPE

Joseph Holt’s Wild Mushroom Risotto Start to finish: 45 minutes; Serves 4

Ingredients: 1 large box of stock, vegetable or chicken, low-sodium (or three to four cans) 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1/2 pound assorted mushrooms (golden chanterelle, shiitake, crimini, oyster, porcini, and/or portabello), chopped 1 medium-sized white onion, chopped 4 cloves of garlic, chopped

1 cup red wine 1 tablespoon truffle butter or mushroom sauce with truffles (found in specialty stores) Pinch of sea salt Ground pepper 2 cups arborio rice 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 2 cups dry white wine (Pinot grigio or sauvignon blanc) Freshly grated Asiago cheese 1 cup heavy cream

DIRECTIONS: • Bring stock to a gentle boil and turn the heat down to low (maintain moderate heat in the stock).

Loren Mayo

score is a blueprint for performing a piece,” he says. “However, the same piece of music will sound different when it’s performed by different people. The indications for ingredients and cooking directions are a blueprint for preparing a dish. In my case, I use the recipe as a jumping off point for experimentation. I tinker with a recipe as much as I tinker with a piece of music, trying different things until it feels right.

“Remember that old adage, ‘practice makes perfect’? One summer I was trying out all sorts of recipes for wild mushroom risotto. I became obsessed with making it perfect, as much as I would practice a piece of music on the piano over a long period of time. After a couple of months of working with the recipe, Paco finally suggested— politely — that maybe I should try something else. He was getting tired of so much risotto!”

On April 2, Holt will conduct a program that includes mu-

sic from the classical period (Haydn’s setting of “The Seven Last Words of Christ”), and the early 20th century (Vaughan Williams’ “Five Mystical Songs”) in a performance at the Sarasota Opera House that will feature the all-professional singers of Gloria Musicae with members of the Sarasota Orchestra, Met Opera mezzo Leah Wool, Sarasota soprano Michelle Giglio, Matthew Heil of the U.S. Army Chorus and Marilyn Horne Foundation winner (and Vaughan Williams specialist) baritone Marcus DeLoach.

Because music and food go hand-in-hand for Holt, there will be a post-concert reception in the courtyard of the Opera House, so everyone who attends will be treated to great music inside and excellent champagne, cheese, canapés and luscious desserts outside.

There will not be any risotto served on that occasion, but you can prepare Holt’s now-perfected dish using the recipe at right.

• Put a large skillet on high heat for one minute, add 2 tablespoons olive oil and turn down to medium. Add onions, salt and pepper, and sauté until opaque. Add garlic and sauté an additional minute. Add mushrooms, stir as necessary, five minutes over medium heat. Once the mushrooms have cooked through and reduced, add red wine and deglaze the pan. Add truffle sauce, stir to incorporate, and remove mixture from heat. Reserve in a separate bowl.

• Put the same skillet back on high heat for 30 seconds and add 3 tablespoons olive oil (don’t worry if there are bits of mushroom mixture in the pan). Turn heat down to medium and add the arborio rice, sauté until the rice kernels start to turn a slightly dark opaque shade (about one to two minutes). Stir constantly to coat all rice with the olive oil.

Add white wine and deglaze the pan, stirring constantly.

• From this point forward, you will need to stir the rice mixture until done. Otherwise, the rice will become a sticky mess. Once the wine has been mostly incorporated into the rice, add a cup of warm stock and mix thoroughly. Keep stirring. Once the stock has been incorporated (approximately one to two minutes), add another cup.

Keep stirring, rotating the rice around the pan. You never want the mixture to dry completely — it should always be a little wet. Repeat this procedure until the rice is almost done (it will be slightly firm but not crunchy), approximately 15 to 20 minutes. If necessary, add more stock or water to the pot and bring to a boil. You always want to add the stock when it’s heated, never cold or tepid.

• Once the rice is almost completely cooked, add the mushroom mixture into the skillet — liquid and all. Stir to incorporate. Add cream and freshly grated Asiago cheese. Continue to stir until liquid has been mostly absorbed (risotto is a wet rice dish, not completely dry).

• Serve immediately — risotto will thicken if you let it sit. Accompany with salad and thick crusty Italian bread. For a variation on this recipe, add veal pieces (slightly cooked with the mushroom mixture).

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As if living in Sarasota and participating in its arts scene isn’t enough, Dr. Joseph Holt and his partner, Paco Martinez-Alvarez, just renovated their home, including a brand new kitchen and a few extra rooms that weren’t there when the house was built in 1931.

“We’ve always had a kitchen that was separated from the rest of the house,” Holt says, referring mainly to their home in the Washington, D.C., area where they lived for more than 20 years while he was the pianist for the United States Army Chorus.

“A kitchen is the heart of a home, and we wanted the renovation to create a warm, inviting space, not only for preparation and cooking, but also for the social time spent with family and friends,” he says.

Even though the original kitchen was remodeled in the ’70s, all the appliances were dated and the house had wood paneling on the walls. So, they lightened up the space and put in stone countertops and a central island for chopping and preparing meals for their musical friends.

Holt, who looks and acts too young to have been in the service all those years, is the primary cook in the family. MartinezAlvarez is a lawyer who works with non-profit organizations.

He is originally from Puerto Rico, but the two of them have done a lot of international travel so their tastes in food are eclectic.

The same can be said of their musical tastes.

“I’m highly influenced by certain music when I’m in the kitchen, particularly if we’re listening to something Latin,” Holt said.

“Music from Puerto Rico can be quite rhythmic and energetic, as well as expressive. The highly charged rhythm of salsa is infectious.”

And how his music-making has influenced his cooking?

“As a musician, the musical

Artistic director Gloria Musicae

72019

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THE SOCIAL OBSERVER

Black Tie STAR STRUCK YourObserver.com

INSIDE: Second Annual Firefly Gala / PAGE 15 THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

By Loren Mayo | Black Tie Editor

Dr. Larry Thompson and his wife, Pat, pose in directors’ chairs labeled “John Wayne” and “Maureen O’Hara.”

It's always a surprise to see what — or, in this case, who — Dr. Larry Thompson will show up as to the Ringling College of Art and Design annual gala, “An Evening at the Avant-Garde.”

This year's theme, “Hollywood Premiere,” featured not one, but two John Waynes, thanks to Thompson and David Meeker. Other partygoers came dressed as a variety of stars of the screen, including Ann Margaret; Jean Dujardin and Bérénice Bejo from this year's movie hit “The Artist” with their own Uggi in tow; John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John from “Grease”; The Blues Brothers; Julie Andrews from “The Sound of Music”; and Charlie Chaplin.

Thompson introduced Oscar-winning RCAD alumni, ’95 graduate Brandon Oldenburg, who arrived via limo with his wife, Shannon, and Oscar in tow. Oldenburg, who now employs 15 Ringling graduates at his firm, Moonbot Studios, in Shreveport, La., announced the 2013 Avant-Garde Endowed Scholarship winner, illustration major Kaitlyn Priestley.

The event's live-auction items definitely drew some attention this year. One item, which sold for $5,500, featured a trip for four people to visit the set of a Paul Schiff film in Los Angeles and have lunch with the crew — including James Franco. Another item was the opportunity to visit the set of the HBO blockbuster, “True Blood,” with Anna Paquin and Stephen Moyer, which went for $4,500. (The latter item was won by Sue and Adam Armbruster, whose son, Alec, is a freshman film student at Ringling.)

Vicky Randall and Jill Lerner strut their stuff on the red carpet.

See more photos on page 10

Jackie Rodgers interviewed guests as they arrived on the red carpet, including Rachel Cavanaugh and Ray Fogg.

Kristi Bonsack, Sandra Rios, Mary Kay Ryan and Tom Heatherman

Patricia and Roger Courtois came as Katy Perry and Russell Brand.

Brandon and Shannon Oldenburg pose with Brandon Oldenburg’s recently won Oscar.

Bob and Diane Roskamp

Photos by Rachel S. O’Hara

10 ■ Diversions >>

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THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

COVER/ANNOUNCEMENTS

ENGAGEMENTS + WEDDINGS

The Newlyweds BRIDE AND GROOM: Samantha Allard and

Nathan Eckert

BRIDE’S PARENTS: Jeff and Donna Pfohler GROOM’S PARENTS: Rick and Patty Eckert

Stacey and Michael Corley with their dog, Pipi, came as the stars of “The Artist.”

HOW THEY MET: Nate and Sam met at a mutual friend’s birthday party at Beach Access 5, on Siesta Key. Nate was living in the Village at the time, and Sam and some other people from the party hung out at his house for a little while after the beach. It was there that Nate discovered Sam liked some of the same indie bands that he did.

Sam casually suggested that Nate burn some CDs of his favorite music. Nate had the CDs ready in a week and used them as an excuse to set up their first date.

THE PROPOSAL: Nate proposed on Christmas 2010. Sam was just coming home from working the night shift at SMH. Previously, Nate and Sam decided they were only going to get each other stocking stuffers, then purchase a new TV together. Nate wrapped and hid the ring box in the bottom of Sam’s stocking, putting odd gifts like Sam’s favorite Ramen noodles above it. Sam got to the bottom of her stocking, wore a look of disbelief after opening the box, then happily accepted Nate’s proposal.

THE WEDDING: The Dec. 3 ceremony was on a semi-private beach at a house the couple rented on Siesta Key, right around the bend from Access 5, where they met.

THE RECEPTION: The reception was in the beautiful backyard of the house, where the guests ate and danced under a gorgeous, starry sky and drank beverages from the

Dr. Jennifer Awe, associate dean of students at Ringling College, posed on the red carpet as an Oscar.

Celine and Alan Kilburg

Peggy Wilhelm with Randy and Isabel Norton

Mimi Edlin and Paul Reamer

Courtesy photo

canoe cooler Nate and Sam painted red to match the wedding colors — red and turquoise.

THE DRESS: A sexy, fitted ivory gown BRIDE-AND-GROOM’S FIRST DANCE: Ben Harper’s “Forever” HONEYMOON: Nate and Sam spent an extra couple of nights at the beach house after the wedding and are looking forward to attending a music festival in either Austin or New Orleans this fall.

FUN FACT: The groom and groomsmen all wore matching Vans shoes for the wedding, and Sam wore matching ones for photos.

Submit your story Send your engagement and wedding announcements to Black Tie Editor Loren Mayo at lmayo@yourobserver.com.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

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Diversions

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11

COLUMN

black tie tales

by Loren Mayo and Molly Schechter | Observer Staff

+ The perfect fit Sarasota designer and entrepreneur Diana Kelly’s classic shoes have been generating buzz all around town since their debut in 2010, but now they are also capturing national buzz on the pages of Southern Living.

The article profiling young designers appears in the magazine’s March issue.

“We were thrilled to have been featured

by Southern Living, a magazine that three generations of women (my grandmother, mother and I) all love to read and pull ideas from,” says Kelly.

As the Diana E. Kelly brand continues to grow, Kelly is bringing on a new team member. The Observer’s Stephanie Photo courtesy of Rebecca Baxter Hannum will be leaving Diana Kelly and Stephanie Hannum after six years as Black Tie editor and, most recently, advertising coordinator, to be Kelly’s vice president of operations.

“The Observer has been the most wonderful family, so I’m excited to take on this great opportunity armed with all the experiences and lessons I’ve learned at the newspaper,” says Hannum. “In addition to getting to work with a truly inspirational designer, what girl would not love to work with shoes?!”

To find out more about Diana E. Kelly, visit www.dianaekelly.com.

+ Ohhh, Sandy!

+ A year of firsts …

There she was in the Miramar Room at the Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, happily seated in a chair and pouring herself a spot of tea.

Four-time Grammy award winner and breastcancer survivor Olivia Newton-John was the keynote speaker at the Moffitt Cancer Center Foundation’s 13th annual Sarasota Women’s Cancer Awareness Luncheon March 19.

Newton-John, a member of Moffitt’s national board of advisers, advocates for early detection and encourages women to take an active role in their breast health. This April, she will launch a cookbook in which she talks about her relationships with food, cancer and how to eat healthy.

All profits will benefit the Olivia Newton-John Cancer & Wellness Centre — Austin Hospital, in Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.

When asked about her father winning the Nobel Prize (it was actually her grandfather, physicist Max Born), Newton-John replied, “Yes, my grandfather was a Nobel Prize winner, and I ended up singing. What are the chances?”

During a question-and-answer session, a woman asked Newton-John if she would sing something. Her response: “For $10,000 for Moffitt, I’ll sing a few bars.” The next person to pick up the microphone was Tom Koski. He surprised the room and said he was willing to write a check. Newton-John then took his hand and sang part of the requested, “I Honestly Love You.”

Jewish Family & Children’s Service launched its Celebrity Chefs & Wine Tasting event eight years ago with the goal of attracting a younger audience to a less expensive, more casual event, versus its annual black-tie gala. The concept originated with Marion Levine, of Longboat Key, who is considered the “founding chairman.” This year the event attracting some 600-plus guests March 19, to the Longboat Key Club Islandside tent. It was “firsts” galore for event Co-Chairs Randy and Susan Mallitz and Golf Challenge Chair Shaun Benderson: more total guests, more young ones and more corporate sponsors. It was also the first time it rained on this event. Most of the mild discomfort fell on the 25 guest chefs positioned at the outer edges of the tent, among them Edward Geyfman, of event sponsor Longboat Key Club & Resort, Carlos Moran, of Toasted Mango Café, and Dino Carta, of Café Americano. On a fashion note: The notice-itfrom-across-the-room necklace worn by Susan Mallitz’s sister from Florida’s east coast and a 40-year-old Abe Schrader print shirtwaist worn by Ruth Kreindler that looked newer than the newest prints in the fanciest stores. See photos page 17 and online at www.YourObserver.com

Olivia Newton-John

+ Tidbits Double duke … Ringling College of Art and Design President Dr. Larry Thompson, who went as John Wayne to the Avant-Garde gala, asked David Meeker, who also went as John Wayne, if Larry could be young John and David, old John …

Gentlemen’s moment … two husbands seated next to each other at Saturday’s Firefly Gala did some major male bonding and at one point, one husband exclaimed to his new BFF’s wife, “ I love your husband Rachel S. O’Hara — he’s like a ball of string and John Wayne, aka Dr. Larry Thompson I’m the cat!” … Happy, happy … Denise Mei celebrated her birthday during the Firefly Gala — BT found her trying to corral a group of highly excited women as they attempted to pose for photographs with as many “Happy Birthday” and “Wild Thing” signs as would fit in their arms …

Loren Mayo

SEE THINGS DIFFERENTLY...

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THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

CAMERA READY

Girls Incorporated 24th Annual Celebration Luncheon Tuesday, March 20 | Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota

Co-Chairwomen Diane McFarlin, Louise Bruderle, Lisa Walsh and Lisl Liang (not pictured Julie Milton and Kelley Lavin)

Liliana Burrow

Photos by Loren Mayo

Honorees Pam Truitt, Susan Jones and Flori Roberts

Traditional Passover & Easter Dinners

on ds Buskers A n a m r . t S

delivered to your home

Individual Dinners Cocktail Parties • Banquets

A Night of Visual & Performing Art on the Charmed Circle

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Eric Scott Anthony and Casey Gensler. Photo by Maria Lyle.

Gabrielle Holt and Brenda Morris

revives a European Tradition the First Wednesday of every month, with this exciting new event. Come enjoy a wide variety of entertainers from classical guitarist & cellists, to living statues, jugglers & mimes. Caricature artists to portrait artist, musicians & dancers and a few vocalists thrown in for good measure.

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Wednesday nights on St. Armands is the place to be as we begin our new “Wonderful Wednesdays on the Circle” line up of special events!

For more information, or to submit a Buskers Application to perform, please visit the St. Armands Circle Association website at www.starmandscircleassoc.com or call 941-388-1554.

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CAMERA READY

The 29th Annual

April 11, 2012 Bayside Gardens of College Hall New College of Florida campus

Sponsor Jack Urfer with Rose Durham, John Masters ad Thelma Urfer

Cat’sino Catsablanca Gala

‘As Time Goes By’

Saturday, March 24 | Laurel Oak Country Club

11:00 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

12:30 p.m.

1:15-3:00 p.m.

Champagne Reception Fashion Show Lunch Shopping Boutique

Fashion show and shopping boutique by Saks Fifth Avenue Hat contest with fabulous prizes Chair Aimee Cogan Mark Zaloudek and June Bowers

Benefiting New College Library Association

Buccaneers cheerleaders Kelli Jones and Holly Sellers

Fuego Español and Sabor Flamenco

Reservations: donate.ncf.edu/piquenique For more information or to receive an invitation, please contact Johnette Cappadona: jcappadona@ncf.edu or (941) 487-4600.

Photos by Mallory Gnaegy

Sue Waxman and Penny Left: Chase Perkins deals to Chris Getty, Wendy Johnston, Gloria Grenier and Lynn Ahrends

Former Dolphins player Mercury Morris with Cat Depot Director of Operations Karen Slomba, event Chairwoman Shelley Thayer and Director of Communications Lynn Rasys

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Ruby E. and Carole Crosby Family Foundation

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THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

CAMERA READY

Sarasota Opera Executive Director Susan Danis and Maestro Victor DeRenzi

Eleanor Williams and Victoria Leopold

Sarasota Opera 30th Anniversary of Maestro Victor DeRenzi Sunday, March 25 | The Peterson Great Room Pat Edmonds, Peggy March, Dorothy Lawrence and Jane Jones

Larry English and Elissa Soyka

Sandra and Erik Lindqvist with Jacqueline Morton

Photos by Loren Mayo

Jeanne Auten, Martin Martel and Bonny Heet

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Second annual Firefly Gala Saturday, March 24 | The Concession Golf Club

Blondie performed at the event.

Photos by Loren Mayo

Megan Kane-Hartnett, Betsy Kane-Hartnett, Liza Kane-Hartnett, Jesse Kane-Hartnett and Stanley Kane

Keely Crosby

Ernesto Oliveira and Billy Gamble

Rachelle Considine and Chairwoman Ariane Dart

Joseph Patrick Arnegger, Ashley Hilton, Wayne and Mindy Rollins and George Cappello

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THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

CAMERA READY

Host Donna Simmons, seated left, with Lavonne Martin, Susan Brennan, Belinda Coffrin, Gail Bowden, standing, and Kristi Bonsack, seated right

Ron and Dorothea Morris

Karin Gustafson, Dan Long and Susan Kretz

YMCA Foundation of Sarasota VIP Dinner ‘Fete New Orleans’ Thursday, March 22 | Coucher de Soleil

Paul Bowman and Jackie Dickinson with Dawn and Mitchell Epstein

Marilyn and Don Fisher

John and Suzanne Anderson with John and Denise Saputo

Photos by Loren Mayo

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8th Annual JFCS Celebrity Chef & Wine Tasting Tuesday, March 20 | Longboat Key Club & Resort

George McGonagill and Tara Booker

Dawn Babin and Caryl Rutledge

Co-Chairs Randy and Susan Mallitz with Shaun Benderson

Norman Olshansky and Caroline Zucker

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THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

CAMERA READY

Sarasota Film Festival Sponsor Kick-Off Monday, March 19 | Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

Chairwoman Nadia Ritter, Helen Glaser, Joy Weston, Peri Smilow and Bunny Skirboll

Women’s Passover Celebration Photos by Loren Mayo

Allison Koehler and Tom Hall

Julie Mays and Mary Bensel

Thursday, March 22 | Michael’s On East

Mark Famiglio and Veronica Pastore

Jimmy and Paige Dean, Eric Moody and Suzette Jones

WE’RE BACK ON THE COURT AND BACK ON THE COURSE!

Sue Jacobson, Dorothy Jacobson and Jocelyn Stevens

Photos by Loren Mayo

Debbie Haspel and Nanci Rand

Observe

what you are missing...

OUR PATIENTS - FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:

Mike Wilton, Bud Polley and Arnie Vance

Thanks to the successful treatment of our rotator cuff injuries, we are all actively enjoying our passion for SPORTS once again.

Rotator cuff muscle injuries are very common. Due to the function of these muscles, sports which involve shoulder rotation such as tennis and golf, often put the rotator cuff muscles under great stress, resulting in an inability to play. A variety of treatment options are available.

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CHRISTOPHER R. SFORZO, M.D.

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

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19

CAMERA READY Women’s Cancer Awareness Luncheon featuring Olivia Newton-John Monday, March 19 | Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota

Chairwoman Eileen Curd, Olivia Newton-John and Charlene Wolff Barb and Dr. Thomas Sellers and Graci McGillicuddy

Dr. Maria Perrone and her daughter, Francesca Perrone

Jill Larson and Kristi Cuza

Skye Aiello, Stephanie Moore, Kristi Quarles and Jasmar Molina

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