President's Message for 2010

"When John Ringling purchased this area we call home in 1917, he had a vision — a vision of a residential neighborhood fit for a president, complete with a pavilion on Lido beach, a golf course, and of course, access, which was quickly realized in the form of the Ringling Causeway. Whether it is full or part time, we are all privileged to share in Ringling’s dream on the beautiful barrier island of St. Armands. Life in St. Armands centers on balance — the balance between our distinctive history and the promise of new development; between commercial interests and residential interests; and, between the needs of residents and the needs of visitors. Maintaining balance can be challenging, but looking around our beautiful island, the extraordinary results of dedicated people are easy to see. The challenges inherent in a commercial center and tourist attraction located in the midst of residential neighborhoods are daunting and can only be tackled through targeted and cooperative initiatives. We have all seen first hand the benefits of hard working groups like the Landowners, Merchants and Residents Association (LMR) and the valuable liaison between the police and our neighborhood watch. I know that together, we can find the balance that will not only allow us peaceful co-existence, but will work towards progress and mutual gain. We have many present and upcoming challenges that require our attention: dealing with increased traffic coming to St. Armands, Lido and Longboat Keys that causes delays and “cut throughs” of residential streets; creating the additional parking necessary to maintain the vibrancy of the commercial area; keeping crime rates low and stemming vandalism; adjusting to city maintenance budget cuts; protecting our manatees from inconsiderate and inexperience boaters; and even macro considerations such as preparing for the threat of damage resulting from off-shore drilling. Our community needs everyone’s help in addressing these issues. I challenge you to get involved — to attend our neighborhood meetings, to write a letter, or to join the neighborhood watch. As St. Armands residents, we are each stewards of our little piece of paradise and we are responsible for doing our part to protect our wonderful community that has been realized from a nearly century-old dream." ....... Graeme Malloch, President - St. Armands Residents Association