Paradise Center, Longboat Harbour get groovy before saying goodbye

Party-goers as The Paradise Center's end-of-season party said the '70s-themed soiree was the best yet.

Members bid farewell to friends who are leaving this spring with a get-together presented by The Groovy Room.

Organizers Tom Schlund and Marilyn Moss said they take pride in sourcing the authentic vintage elements of the experience, down to the corded telephone that still has a dial tone when plugged in. The pair plans decades-themed parties, coordinating the decorations, music and more.

Reflecting on the center's season, board member Eva Kendeffy said she was happy staff could bring a bit of levity to the community after residents dealt with such extensive challenges in recovering from hurricanes Helene and Milton at the beginning of the season.

"People just want a little relief and to be together," she said, attributing those factors to the center's high program participation.

Attendees dressed the part on April 16 with their flowing floral dresses and their go-go boots. In between checking out the throw-back decorations, including a working Lite Brite board and games like Perfection, the partiers got down on the dance floor to the tunes of the Jackson 5, Barry Manilow and many other beloved musicians that have stood the test of time.

Sandi Love, who teaches Qi Gong at the center year-round, said she loved all the little elements, down to the issues of "Tiger Beat," the first magazine she ever purchased.

"I walked in, and it screamed THE 70s — you are back," friend and student Angela Bennink added.

When asked about this year's farewell party compared to others, Love said, "I think this is the best of the best."

Longboat Harbour also bids farewell

Residents at Longboat Harbour Condominiums also closed out the season with a sandy celebration on April 17.

Musician John Rinell played at the beachside property while attendees enjoyed pizza and beverages, swapping stories about what they enjoyed this year.

The high participation at the complex's events this year thrilled Recreation Committee co-chair Karen Pashkow, with plenty of residents getting decked out in green for St. Patrick's Day and boogieing with Elvis, embodied by musician Billy Lindsey.

Although many residents leave for the summer, Pashkow said the association will continue to host plenty of entertaining events throughout the year.