Gulfshore resident parties at surprise celebration

It’s hard to fool a 90-year-old, but residents at Gulfshore of Longboat Key managed to do it.

Charlotte Barsalow celebrated her 90th birthday March 27, but she didn’t expect to be joined by so many friends.

Called from her unit right across from the clubhouse to discuss a problem, Barsalow was greeted by 50 residents singing “Happy Birthday.” She admitted she was fooled, but she was suspicious as to why she was needed for “the problem.”

Elaine Buckley, a friend who has known Barsalow during her 25 years at the park, spoke briefly. Jean Hanna presented Barsalow with a photo album of the residents. And there was a festive birthday cake shared by all.

Joining the celebration were her son and daughter-in-law, Bill and Jane Baraslow, from Vermont.

But the real surprise came later when another of Barsalow’s sons, Charlie, arrived with her three grandchildren. Due to be on hand when Barsalow walked into the clubhouse, they were delayed by heavy beach traffic.

Fellow park resident Emmalene McConnell organized the surprise party.

Contact Dora Walters at [email protected].