+ I consider this election a win for the people
Dear Editor:
I must comment on your editorial of Nov. 15.
“Liberty lost, Statism (whatever that is) won.”
My perception of the national election, which your paper ignores (except in editorial form), is that the following won: women’s reproductive rights, separation of church and state, equal rights for minorities (LGBT’s); preservation of public broadcasting; Planned Parenthood; FEMA; affordable access to health care (a right rather that a privilege); Medicare as we know and love; and a rational next Supreme Court nominee.
Al Tripodi
Longboat Key
+ Why not a toll to use Gulf of Mexico Drive?
Dear Editor:
Graham Forbes recently submitted a letter on the high traffic patterns on Gulf of Mexico Drive; the danger created by the excessive speeds on this road for Longboat Key as a retirement community; and the use of GMD by a high percentage of the traffic as a “cut through/short cut” from Sarasota to spots in the Bradenton area. I have been a neighbor of Graham’s for several years and completely understand and support his commentary and the need for some solution. I would add that perhaps another solution might be the use of reduced speed limits, at least during the day from 6 a.m. util 6 p.m., or perhaps to impose a “toll” for non-Longboat Key residents not in possession of an appropriate permit for access (similar to the bridge charge imposed by Boca Grande for access to the island). I am suggesting to create a hassle factor to use GMD and thereby reduce the daily traffic from cut-through and truck traffic and to ideally make for a safer travel experience on Longboat Key, whether you are traveling by car, foot or bike. I believe some correction is needed before our new season gets under way.
Norm Cavedo
Longboat Key
Currently 2 Responses
- 1.
- My first thoughts after reading Mr Cavedo's letter last week was it must be the Observer's April 1st edition. Really, a toll road and driver check points located along GMD. "Papers Please"! The Elitists Island vs we the tax payers. Come on! No, how about a better solution. Let's close both bridges to the island and initiate a ferry service. Residents of Bradenton Beach rejoice, traffic will now be down 90%! No hassle here!
Paul Curtis
Bradenton Beack
- 2.
- Hey Norm, I'll expect a refund on the tax dollars (state tax dollars) that I've spent on that road, in the mail soon. Will you be sending that to me? Seriously, a toll? Excessive speed? Sounds like you've never driven on Gulf of Mexico Drive! The 45 mph speed limit cannot be achieved on any given day due to slow drivers. That is what is choking up the traffic, not the traffic itself. If everyone did the speed limit and stopped rubbernecking, things would be much smoother. To reduce the speed limit would be ridiculous. That would bunch-up traffic even more, as would a "toll.". I had to laugh when I read that.... a Toll... hahahaha...
- Jun
1 Floridafitfest and 5K Treasure Run
9:00 am - 4:00 pm - Jun
8 World Oceans Day Family Festival
10:00 am - 1:00 pm
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Miller shares Longboat lore
05/22/13
David Miller gave the Kiwanis Club of Longboat Key a history lesson Thursday, May 16, when he shared his memories of early island life. -
Kiwanians get club recognition
05/22/13
The Kiwanis Club of Longboat Key recently received "Distinguished Club" status from Kiwanis International for its efforts during the 2011-12 year. -
Hat's off to Dee Pelton, volunteers
05/15/13
Dee Pelton held a luncheon that will be tough to top.
