Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/211425
Siesta Seen improvements project, Brownman pointed out, "for work to be performed in common areas." Brownman added, "Staff expects to receive an updated work schedule from the contractor this week that will take this project through final completion. More information on the time impact will be provided as it becomes available. At this time we do not expect that the delays we have had to date will significantly impact the [Siesta] Beach project." CONDO COUNCIL MEETING The Siesta Key Condominium Council will hold its first meeting of the season at 3 p.m. Nov. 19 at Siesta Key Chapel, with guest speaker Kevin T. Wells, an attorney, providing an update on new laws affecting Florida condominium associations. Sarasota County History Specialist Jeff LaHurd regales the Siesta Key Association audience with tales from the island's history. Photo by Rachel Hackney Future meetings are scheduled for Dec. 3 and The first bridge to the key opened in 1917; Jan. 7 — both at 3 p.m. — at the Excelsior con- it was replaced in 1927, LaHurd said. "You dominium complex on Midnight Pass Road. almost swapped paint with the cars that were coming the other way." WHAT A DELIGHT! SKA members were treated to a wonderful 65th "birthday party" for the organization on Nov. 7. Jeff LaHurd, a history specialist with the Sarasota County History Center, presented a slide show and discussed Siesta Key's past. LaHurd also pointed out that Harry Higel — for whom Higel Avenue is named — platted Siesta Key. Higel had the first telephone on the island, LaHurd added. "Who did he talk to?" is the question that always pops in his mind, LaHurd noted, when he considers that. Among the facts he offered: In 1954, the island had only 500 permanent residents and, according to his research, no structure taller than two stories. In those days, he added, Siesta truly was a tropical paradise. As part of the celebration, SKA Director Joe Volpe and his wife, Lana, brought cupcakes. The Volpes regularly treat members to chocolate chip cookies, but Lana made it plain this occasion demanded something more festive. %