East County Observer 12.13.12 by The Observer Group Inc.

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EAST COUNTY

Happy Hanukkah!

You. Your neighbors. Your neighborhood.

IN FOCUS

Jewish community gathers on Main Street for Hanukkah.

community

SPORTS

Garden Club creates holiday centerpieces.

Mustangs commit to colleges.

PAGE 14A

PAGE 1B

OUR TOWN

Thursday, DECEMBER 13, 2012

PAGE 19A UNIQUE CHALLENGE

a road trip to remember

by Josh Siegel | Staff writer by Josh Siegel | Staff writer

Interim Superintendent David Gayler remains optimistic, despite finding more budgetary problems.

+ SGA drive proves ‘angelic’ For the seventh year, the Lakewood Ranch High School Student Government Association hosted the Salvation Army Angel Tree. Through the drive, which ended Dec. 7, SGA was able to provide 160 gifts for children who otherwise would not receive gifts during the holidays.

+ Braden River wins radio contest Braden River High School won the 93.3 FLZ Jingle Ball Contest, after students and staff voted every day for two weeks. In a competition of more than 20 Tampa Bay area schools, Braden River garnered 41.49% of the vote. Representing the school were Kelsey Lutzi, Brandon Huynh and Bailey Rodgers, who attended the Dec. 9 event.

Joseph Axtell, a 23-year-old University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee senior, won the #VolvoJoyride contest on Pinterest, earning a four-day, three-night road trip to Colorado Springs, Colo., in his dream car.

Joy Ride

EAST COUNTY — East County resident Joseph Axtell doesn’t normally enter contests. But, after a long day of meticulous planning and aggressive social-media recruiting, Axtell won a coveted prize. Axtell, a 23-year-old University of South Florida SarasotaManatee senior business major, won the #VolvoJoyride contest on Pinterest sponsored by Volvo, earning a four-day, threenight road trip to Colorado Springs, Colo., in his dream car. The package included a free two-night hotel stay, $250 for gas and food, $200 for clothes and a $50 iTunes gift card. Volvo went over budget for Axtell, allowing him to stay an extra night and paying for his fiancé, Michael Nedervelt, to ride with him. “I was ecstatic the whole day when I found out I won,” Axtell said. “Anything you win is interesting and fun. I’ve never won anything this big. The only thing better would be winning the car.”

Joseph Axtell won the #VolvoJoyride contest on Pinterest, earning a trip to Colorado Springs, Colo., in his dream car.

Joseph Axtell got to drive his dream

SEE JOY RIDE / PAGE 8A car, a Volvo, to Colorado Springs.

Trip highlights: + BRE parade celebrates character Third-, fourth- and fifthgrade students at Braden River Elementary School used costumes to share character traits of responsibility, courage, citizenship and others, during the school’s Character Trait Parade Dec. 7. Students also completed a poster, illustration, definition and character trait example as part of the festivity.

SEE OUR TOWN / PAGE 4A

District budget woes grow

Interesting person — Axtell met a saleswoman at Colorado Scenes, a photography store in Breckenridge, Colo. The woman could relate to Axtell because she is from St. Petersburg.

Favorite site — When Axtell took the gondola lift up into the mountains at the Breckenridge Ski Resort.

Most surprising moment — Axtell came in contact with a squirrel at the Cheyenne Mountain Resort.

EAST COUNTY — As more unbudgeted items come across his desk, David Gayler, interim superintendent of Manatee County Schools, is ready to roll up his sleeves. At a Dec. 4 board workshop, Gayler announced another $7 million of unbudgeted items in the district’s budget, a number that added to the $3.4 million deficit announced in September. A few days after the meeting, Gayler refused to wonder what caused the deficit, which pushed former Superintendent Tim McGonegal to resign, and, instead, vowed to move forward with the hope that whoever takes over the district in April won’t have to deal with any of it. “This is a challenge different than any I have experienced,” Gayler said. “The numbers are worse than I expected. Now, the goal is to install a process prior to the new superintendent coming aboard that prevents these things from happening. The new superintendent should start with an open, clean slate. I don’t want them to deal with what I am dealing with. It would be not fair and not wise.” Until then, Gayler aims to find $2.8 million in savings to fund more unbudgeted items announced last week, such as overtime pay, money for the international baccalaureate program at three schools, busing to athletic events and band uniforms. Gayler said a 1% bonus promised to staff, totaling $2.5 million, was left out of the budget, while budget estimates for utility bills and payment for unused sick and vacation days are underbudgeted by $1.5 million. In addition, Gayler revealed no one person was assigned to coordinate full-time equivalent counts, which is used to get money from the state. Instead, the role was spread among schools and departments, which resulted in 17,000 errors and $5 million in lost revenue.

SEE SUPERINTENDENT / PAGE 11A

INDEX Calendar ........... 12A Classifieds ........ 13B

Cops Corner....... 18A Crossword.......... 12B

Permits ............ 11B Real Estate........ 10B

Sports................ 19A Weather............. 12B

Vol. 13, No. 50 | Two sections YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY Observer

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EAST COUNTY Observer

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

ON STAGE

The Tabernacle Church will host its 26th annual Living Nativity Dec. 13 through Dec. 16.

by Pam Eubanks | Managing Editor

A Christmas Story By the Numbers 7 The greatest number of angels that flew in one performance of the Living Nativity

28 Number of main cast members in the show 68 Number of extra large pizzas ordered for rehearsal night last year 125 Number of cast members, including all nights, in the show 250 Total number of volunteers participating in the Living Nativity

game time

Top: The Wiegand family has made participating in the Living Nativity a family tradition. Pictured clockwise from bottom left are: Fairyn, Alexander, Benjamin, Catherine, Lance, Elizabeth, Davis and Sarah. Above: Leo Mascitto helps Tino Wallenda with rigging wires for performances of the Living Nativity.

IF YOU GO The living nativity

EAST COUNTY — Telling the story of Christmas has become a tradition for the Wiegand family, and many others like them at The Tabernacle Church. But it’s not a story they simply read from a book; it’s one they help bring to life for thousands of spectators each year, when The Tabernacle hosts its annual Living Nativity, a drama of the story of Christmas. “I like doing it because we are sharing God’s love; we get to help share what God did for us,” says 10-year-old Catherine Wiegand, who plays a shepherd in this year’s show. “I really like acting, as well, and I enjoy the fellowship with my friends.” Her brother, Benjamin, 12, agreed, as he sat in costume with Catherine and his other siblings. “It’s very, very good,” he says. “We are growing stronger as a family (because we do this together each year). I think it’s a great way to share Jesus with everybody, and it’s a fun show (to be in).” Performances for this year’s Living Nativity start at 7 and 8 p.m. Dec. 13 through Dec. 16, at The Tabernacle, 4141 Desoto Road, Sarasota. Now in its 26th year, The Tabernacle’s Living Nativity re-creates the Bible story of the birth, death and resurrection of Jesus, through drama. The cast includes more than 30 main characters, as well dozens of minor characters and a choir of about 50 angels. Attendees of the performance also can enjoy cookies and other refreshments in a hospitality area and visit with animals, such as sheep, donkeys and camels that would have been around at the time of Jesus’ birth. “It’s essentially the same set you saw (when we started),” says circus performer Tino Wallenda, who sets up the wiring and rigging for the show’s flying angels. “The mountain moved (from erosion), and a couple of the trees died. But we’ve overcome that.” Leo Mascitto, a Tabernacle church member and employee, handles logistics for each year’s performance. “You start from scratch every (year),” he says, noting each year he spends about four weeks assembling the set, which is put in storage after the performances

When: 7 and 8 p.m. Dec. 13 through Dec. 16 Where: The Tabernacle Church, 4141 Desoto Road, Sarasota What: Event starts at 6 p.m. with Santa riding down Main Street. A treelighting ceremony follows at 6:30 p.m. Festivities include pictures with Santa, ice skating, crafts, face painting, Dance Heads Florida, music and more. Details: Come watch a drama of the story of Christmas. Guests also can enjoy refreshments and a petting zoo. Cost: Free Info: thetabsarasota.org have finished. Hundreds of volunteers come together to help with the performance, assisting the public or handling behind-the-scenes tasks during the four-night event. Many families from the Tabernacle, such as the Wiegand family, have been involved with the Living Nativity year after year. Many, including the East County’s Bo and Gina Medred, were original cast members. Mascitto’s whole family also has been involved in the show since its inception. His son, Michael, who played baby Jesus as an infant, is taking college finals early just to come home from New York in time to participate in this year’s performances. His wife, Klara, and other grown children, Christina and Joe, continue to have roles in the cast this year. Benjamin and Catherine’s mother, Sarah Wiegand, now 32, started performing in the show, first as an angel, when she was in the sixth grade. This year, she’ll join her husband and six children on set again. “It’s become our family tradition,” she said, noting she and her husband, Lance, portrayed Mary and Joseph the years their children played baby Jesus. “We enjoy it.” But, beyond the complexities of the set and coordination involved to make the show happen each year, Mascitto points out that the message and purpose of the Living Nativity has never changed. “It’s the story of Christmas,” he said. “The whole narration is (the Bible story). “Our commission is to spread the word,” he said. “I feel this is our gift to the community. There is so much of the commercial. We want to bring out the real meaning of Christmas.”

by Josh Siegel | Staff Writer

Polo season kicks off with fresh faces, new scoreboard Competitors from across the country invade the Sarasota Polo Club for the latest winter season starting Dec. 16. LAKEWOOD RANCH — The 2012-13 season at the Sarasota Polo Club will bring a new electronic scoreboard and fresh talent from Wyoming, Ohio and even the United Kingdom. Spanning Dec. 16 to April 7, during two-to-three tournaments per week, six-to-eight teams will compete for a chance to be one of two to play on Sundays at the championship field. The Bank of Montreal will sponsor the championship field this year. The sponsorship allowed the club to purchase an electronic scoreboard to replace a rickety wooden one that has been there since 1991, when the club opened. Admission for Sunday matches is $12 per adult, while children under 12 can attend free. Polo Operations Manager Rebecca Gutierrez said she expects about 2,000 people to come out every Sunday. “It’s really just an awesome way to spend an afternoon,” Gutierrez said. “The sport can be complex, but to just sit and watch it is easy to spectate. You don’t need to know anything about polo to watch.” During the last few weeks, Sarasota Polo Club professionals have filed in from their summer training spots. A young player from England whose

father, a retired polo player, just moved to Lakewood Ranch, brought a group of European competitors with him. Gutierrez says that 85% to 90% of the club’s members come from somewhere other than Florida. Florida becomes a hot spot for the sport during the winter, especially for those coming from the East Coast. Gutierrez says only California can provide similar grassy fields and warm weather during that time. The club provides stables to keep the horses — most competitors bring at least 10 of their own — but players must find a place to live (most rent in the area) and hire employees to care for the animals. Francisco Llosa considers the winter polo season at the Sarasota Polo Club an investment. Originally from Argentina, Llosa, a 39-year-old three-goal polo player, and his sponsor filled two trailers with 23 horses for a 27-hour, three-day trek from Kansas to Sarasota. Llosa and his sponsor hired two caretakers to groom his horses. Before competing, the caretakers will spend nearly two hours trimming each horse’s mane. Out of his 23 horses, Llosa says only 13 are ready to compete now.

IF YOU GO Polo matches are held at 1 p.m. Sunday, at the Sarasota Polo Club. Tailgating starts at 11 a.m. Admission is $12 for adults.

Josh Siegel

Originally from Argentina, 39-year-old three-goal polo player Francisco Llosa says he learned to walk and ride at the same time.

That’s because he staggers them, preparing each at different times to shield against potential injury or sickness. Llosa’s favorite horse, a 7-year-old female named Easy, will spend the next month-and-a-half getting into game shape, practicing two times a day, six days a week. “Easy never has an off day,” Llosa said. “I always have great expectations. It always depends on the horses, though. If the horse is better, I perform better. But I only bring proven horses to Florida.” Contact Josh Siegel at jsiegel@yourobserver.com

SCHEDULE: Dec. 16 — St. Stephen’s Episcopal School Cup. Tailgate theme is “Toys for Tots Drive.” Bring an unwrapped toy to receive up to two complimentary tickets per vehicle. Dec. 23 — Holiday Exhibition Match Dec. 30 — New Year Celebration Cup Jan. 6 — West Coast Florida Cup Jan. 13 — Band Weintraub Cup Jan. 20 — Spirit of America Cup Jan. 27 — Premier Sotheby’s International Realty Cup Feb. 3 — MGA Insurance Group Super Bowl Cup Feb. 10 — Suncoast Porsche Cup Feb. 17 — Sarasota Magazine Cup Feb. 24 — Observer Group Cup March 3 — Bright House Networks/Bay News 9 Presents the Wayne Brown Finals March 10 — BMO Private Bank Cup March 17 — MGA Insurance Group Cup March 24 — Schroeder-Manatee Ranch Presents the Robert A. Uihlein Jr. Memorial Cup March 31 — All Children’s Hospital Guild Cup April 7 — Maduro Cigar & Diamond Vault Cup

EAST COUNTY Observer

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

. NORTH AMERICA’S BEST OVERALL LOCAL NEWS SITE

MOST READ STORIES ONLINE LAST WEEK: 1. “DUI pursuit ends in crash” (Dec. 4) 2. “Man seriously injured in motorcycle crash” (Dec. 10) 3. Teen entrepreneur draws national attention” (Dec. 5) 4. “Another $7 million hidden from Manatee County schools” (Dec. 5) 5. “Plane takes emergency landing near East County” (Dec. 10)

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OUR TOWN CONTINUED FROM 1A

+ Shoebox sensation for Meals on Wheels Members of The Blah-Blah Sisterhood gathered Dec. 4 at the home of Tami Uphaus with empty shoeboxes and goodies in hand. The ladies wrapped each shoebox and stuffed it with items such as candy, warm socks, books, candles Pictured from left: Vicki Paoli, Renee Litzenberger, Leah and more. McElroy, Bonnie Pinkerton, “This is the first Amy Holland, Becky Ivko year we have done and Tami Uphaus. Mirian this, but we enjoyed it Yero was present, but is not so much, we are going pictured. to do something every year for the less fortunate,” member Becky Ivko said. The shoeboxes will be delivered to needy seniors through Meals On Wheels.

+ Nate’s Place re-opens Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue celebrated the soft opening of its renovated Nate’s Place adoption center Dec. 1, in The Shoppes at University Town Center. The location now will include a glass-walled cat room, a cottage-style adoption area for dogs and an informational kiosk. It also has restrooms and office space, laundry and storage areas and more. The majority of animals cared for by Honor will continue to be kept at the rescue’s Ranch location on Lorraine Road, where animals also will get medical treatment and training. Honor vacated the Nate’s Place space in late April and prepared for a three-month project. Because of delays, however, renovations did not begin on the retail space until Oct. 1.

+ East County youth take center stage in ‘Nutcracker’ performance East County youth Kristina Schmidt will help bring the story of “The Nutcracker” to life, as she takes a lead role in the Diane Partington Studio of Classical Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” this weekend. Kristina will portray the lead character, Clara. Other East County dancers in the show include: Nicoletta Lanese (Snow Queen), Laura McKenna, Sarah Dill, Jessie Chiang, Danielle Calabrese, Katie Goins, Isabelle Starner, Sofia Atzrodt and Lauren Atzrodt. Performances will be held at 7 p.m. Dec. 15 and 1:30 p.m. Dec. 16, at the Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota. Tickets cost $25 for adults and $15 for children ages 12 and younger.

MOVIE MAGIC WITH POPCORN BOB: Log on to YourObserver.com to read Popcorn Bob’s weekly movie reviews.

ENTER YOUR PET IN OUR PET OF THE MONTH CONTEST:

Don’t forget to enter your pet into this month’s “Pet of the Month” contest. Visit the “Contests” page on YourObserver.com to enter your cutest pet, then come back to vote starting Dec. 25. Each monthly winner will receive a gift certificate from one of the Pet of the Month page sponsors.

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Classified Advertising/Service Directory: For information and rates, see the classified advertising section, or call 941-955-4888. Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. To place a classified ad online, email your ad to Maureen Hird, mhird@yourobserver.com.

EAST COUNTY Observer

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

on call

by Josh Siegel | Staff Writer

Center for Building Hope hosts medical students FSU students Huy Pham and Gerald Bieniek participated in a three-week clerkship meant to broaden their understanding of medicine.

Photos by Josh Siegel

taining and promoting health. As Pham experienced Qigong — a Chinese exercise that focuses on breathing in rhythmic movements for stress reduction — his blank expression belied the fact he had trouble focusing. “It’s hard to not think about anything,” Pham said. “I’m always thinking about school and what’s due.” Pham, a Brandon native whose time volunteering at nursing homes as a undergraduate student pushed him to pursue medicine, came away inspired by a service he knew nothing about. “The longer I’m here, I notice

The Center for Building Hope offers classes like this Qigong class, meant to help reduce stress, for cancer patients and others affected by cancer. how invaluable this service is,” Pham said. “Every day people affected by cancer come here even if it’s just to share a cup of coffee or share stories. The camaraderie is important to them. And their outlook is just incredible. Everyone has a positive attitude. We have a lot to learn from them, really.” Bieniek, a Michigan native who chose to follow his mother, a nurse, into medicine, said he quickly felt relaxed when he walked onto CBH’s five-acre, gold LEED-certified campus, which is surrounded by a nature reserve.

“You quickly realize the goal here is to reduce stress and allow people to relax and meditate,” Bieniek said. “It de-stressed me and showed me I need to clear my mind.” CBH program director Andrea Feldmar has hosted FSU students in the three years she’s worked at the center. She said the program’s participants, who come to as many free classes as they please, enjoy interacting with students. “Participants love to have them here,” Feldmar said. “They feel like they have a pipeline to the ears of up-and-coming phy-

sicians of future. It gives the students a little different twist on things and shows how their gifts can impact people emotionally, as well as physically.” Weber sits in on classes four times a week. In a yoga class, Weber, whose son is a doctor, had a conversation with Pham about his future. “(Pham) is a nice and conscientious young man,” Weber said. “This is a wonderful thing for these students, to understand people and feel people and see the bond that people have here. We would do anything for each other.” Another 18 third-year medical students at the FSU Sarasota campus participated in the clerkship at various agencies across the community, such as the American Red Cross and hospice organizations. Only Pham and Bieniek were assigned to CBH. Throughout the three weeks, students had to complete related writing and reading assignments, plus deliver a PowerPoint presentation to their class that reflected on the experience. “This is really a great resource that physicians need to be more aware of,” Pham said. “I know it is something I will offer to my patients. Everyone is just so welcoming here.” Contact Josh Siegel at jsiegel@ yourobserver.com

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EAST COUNTY — Huy Pham, a 25-year-old medical student, held his right hand to the side of his head and his left hand to his heart. Then, he dropped both arms in a straight, vertical position by his side. He held them there and then abruptly whooshed his outstretched arms — now in a horizontal position — toward his head, as if he prepared to fly. The Qigong instructor in the front of the dim room, whispered, “Let it go.” Nearby, stood Shirley Weber, 80, a breast-cancer survivor, who rested her hands over her belly button and leaned her weight back, eyes shut. The Center for Building Hope (CBH) in Lakewood Ranch hosted Pham and fellow Florida State University medical student Gerald Bieniek for the school’s Community Medicine Clerkship from Nov. 27 to Dec. 13. For four days a week and fiveto-nine hours a day during that time, Pham and Bieniek, both students at FSU’s Sarasota campus, participated in various programs at the CBH —an organization that offers support services to cancer patients, caregivers and family members. By joining in the Qigong class, arts and crafts, yoga and even a support group called, “Losing a Loved One,” Pham and Bieniek were expected to reach beyond the role of a traditional doctor and understand the role played by community centers in main-

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

Jayne Keys enjoyed her last wish — to play in the snow

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LAKEWOOD RANCH — Jayne Alexis Keys had one last wish — to play in the snow. As she crouched on her knees and peered outside through a window at her Braden Woods home, she watched eagerly as a truck emptied snow in her yard Dec. 3. As the snow hit ground, Jayne, determined to build a snowman and toss snowballs while wearing her pink boots and matching gloves, shouted, “I see it! I see it!” Less than one week after she enjoyed her wish, Jayne died from stage 4 rhabdomyosarcoma, a cancerous soft-tissue tumor of the muscles. Jayne’s battle with cancer ended at her home in the company of her family at 12:30 p.m. Dec. 8. She was 4 years old. Growing up in Vermont, Jayne saw snow all the time. She came from a family of skiers. Since the family’s move to Florida to escape Vermont’s harsh winters when Jayne was 3 years old, she would constantly ask about playing in snow again. Jayne’s father, Joshua, says the family planned to drive to Vermont to see snow this winter, but his daughter’s deteriorating health wouldn’t allow it. “We simply wanted her to see snow before she passed,” Joshua Keys said. “She remembered it and missed it, and it’s what she really wanted.” Neighbors and friends had joined Jayne for her snow day; some of them frolicked in the snow with her, while others snapped photos, watched and smiled. As her parents helped her build a small snowman, Jayne insisted she could insert the carrot nose by herself.

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Jayne Alexis Keys died from stage four rhabdomyosarcoma Dec. 8. Before she died, she enjoyed an afternoon in the snow at her Braden Woods home.

The act displayed a passion for life Jayne showed everyone during her short life. “To all who knew Jayne, she was larger than life,” Joshua Keys said. Spotlight Amusements, in Sarasota, provided the snow for a small fee. Lee’s Ice drove the snow to the Keys’ home. Jayne was diagnosed with cancer in March 2012. The illness started when Jayne’s calf swelled up after a fall. She soon started limping, but made little of it. Her parents also found a mass on her pelvis. “The doctors didn’t give her much time or a chance,” Joshua Keys said. “But she just kept fighting and lived longer than they thought she would.” Rhabdomyosarcoma is a rare tumor, with only several hundred new cases per year throughout the United States. It usually affects children ages 8 to 12. Contact Josh Siegel at jsiegel@yourobserver.com.

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NEWSBRIEFS

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

+ FHP issues 19 citations in October interstate pile-up The Florida Highway Patrol concluded its investigation of a multivehicle accident on Interstate 75 earlier this year, resulting in 19 traffic citations. The Oct. 5 crash left southbound lanes near the University Parkway exit at the Manatee-Sarasota county line backed up for miles during the six-hour road closure. The findings showed that 53 vehicles were involved in 21 traffic accidents, according to a FHP release. No fatalities were reported. However, 52 people were injured, 22 of whom were taken to local hospitals for treatment. Only two were evacuated via helicopter. According to the release, rain contributed to the crash. But, further investigation revealed driver error also led to the incident.

Meetings &agendas Manatee County Board of County Commissioners Meeting — 9 a.m. Dec. 18, at the Manatee County Administration Building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton



Sarasota for inpatient care. Patients in need of continuous symptom control are admitted to the Care Center until their condition is stabilized. When those symptoms are curbed and patients and their family members feel comfortable making the transition, they return home. “Our goal is to help people, who choose our care, make the most of every day, with dignity and quality,” said Gerry Radford, Tidewell Hospice president and CEO. “This new Tidewell Care Center gives area residents a local option. Instead of time spent traveling to a more distant location, family members can spend that time in a much more memorable way with their loved one.”

+ Inpatient hospice unit opens at hospital Tidewell Hospice has partnered with Lakewood Ranch Medical Center to create the area’s first hospital-based inpatient hospice unit. The six-bed Tidewell Care Center at LWRMC held a ribbon cutting Nov. 29. Previously, hospice patients residing in the Lakewood Ranch area had to transfer to Tidewell’s hospice houses in Ellenton or

Students in the Manatee and Sarasota County chapters of the Future Builders of America visited the future home of IRISS’s global headquarters Nov. 30. Approximately 85 students toured the 32,000-square-foot manufacturing building, which is under construction in Technology Terrace. General contractor Fred M. Starling Inc. and Bill Jarvis, vice president of commercial construction at Lakewood Ranch Commercial Realty, arranged the tour.

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COLORADO

Observer

Day 2 Stopped in St. Louis,

EAST COUNTY

to see the Gateway Arch. Ate at the Texas Roadhouse, a chain for which Axtell used to work in New York. Had the Volvo washed at the Classic Car Wash in O’ Fallon, Mo. Bought a 150-watt power inverter to charge his iPod in Lawrence, Kan. Arrived at the Cheyenne Mountain Resort at 1 a.m.

“If we are to build a better world, we must remember that the guiding principle is this — a policy of freedom for the individual is the only truly progressive policy.” Friedrich Hayek “Road to Serfdom,” 1944

Editor & CEO / Matt Walsh, mwalsh@ yourobserver.com Executive Editor / Lisa Walsh, lwalsh@ yourobserver.com Chief Digital Officer / Emily Walsh, ewalsh@ yourobserver.com Deputy Executive Editor / Jessica Luck, jluck@ yourobserver.com Managing Editor / Pam Eubanks, peubanks@ yourobserver.com Assistant Managing Editor/News / Randi Donahue,rdonahue@yourobserver.com Design Editor / Jennifer Edwards, jedwards@yourobserver.com Sports Editor / Jen Blanco, jblanco@yourobserver.com Staff Writer / Josh Siegel, jsiegel@yourobserver.com Arts & Entertainment Editor / Mallory Gnaegy, mgnaegy@yourobserver.com Copy Editor / Maria Amodio Director of Advertising / Jill Raleigh, jraleigh@ yourobserver.com East County Advertising Manager / Lori Ruth, lruth@yourobserver.com; Digital Sales Manager / Kathleen O’Hara, kohara@yourobserver.com Senior Advertising Executive / Laura Ritter, lritter@yourobserver.com; Advertising Executives / Victoria Baga, vbaga@yourobserver.com; Penny DiGregorio, pdigregorio@yourobserver.com; Lori Downey, ldowney@yourobserver.com; Rosemary Felton, rfelton@yourobserver.com; Darcy Jahn, djahn@ yourobserver.com; Chris Kelley, ckelley@ yourobserver.com; Robert Lewis, blewis@ yourobserver.com; Rose Mango, rmango@ yourobserver.com; Suzanne Munroe, smunroe@ yourobserver.com; Kenji Trujillo, ktrujillo@ yourobserver.com Sales & Marketing Coordinator / Leslie Gnaegy, lgnaegy@yourobserver.com Sales Coordinator/Account Managers / Susan Leedom, sleedom@yourobserver.com; Rachel Livingston, rlivingston@yourobserver.com Classified Advertising Sales Executives/ Maureen Hird, mhird@yourobserver.com; Courtney Callahan, ccallahan@yourobserver. com Interactive Art Director / Caleb Stanton, cstanton@yourobserver.com Advertising-Production Operations Manager / Kathy Payne, kpayne@yourobserver.com Advertising-Production Coordinator / Brooke Schultheis, bschultheis@yourobserver.com Advertising Graphic Designers / Peter Carlson, pcarlson@yourobserver.com; Monica DiMattei, mdimattei@yourobserver.com; Marjorie Holloway, mholloway@yourobserver.com; Luis Trujillo, ltrujillo@yourobserver.com; Chris Stolz, cstolz@yourobserver.com Chief Financial Officer / Laura Keisacker, lkeisacker@yourobserver.com Accounting Manager / Kathy Klein, kklein@ yourobserver.com Administration-Subscriptions Coordinator / Donna Condon, dcondon@yourobserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

Day 4

Checked out of the Cheyenne Mountain Resort. Ate again at Olde World Bagel & Deli. Headed to Breckenridge, Colo. Stopped on the route to see a herd of horses and pet a donkey. Ate lunch at La Francaise, a French bakery, and ate a hot tomato mozzarella basil panini. Took a gondola lift at the Breckinridge Ski Resort.

Day 3 Went to Olde World

Bagel & Deli, where Axtell ate a sesame bagel with salmon cream cheese. Met a squirrel. Drove to Denver to have dinner with a friend, Adam Chartrand. Went to 16th Street Mall. Drove back to Colorado Springs, Colo., and enjoyed the hot tub at the hotel.

JOY RIDE / PAGE 1A From Dec. 1 through Dec. 4, in a 2013 Volvo S60 T5, to the pace of Lady Gaga tunes that blared from the speakers, Axtell and Nedervelt crossed eight states, burned through nine tanks of gas and drove nearly 2,500 miles en route to the Cheyenne Mountain Resort. In between the 31-hour trek, the couple made stops in Ashburn, Ga., to see the world’s largest peanut monument; Nashville, Tenn., in a quest to taste fried green tomatoes; and St. Louis, where the Gateway Arch awaited. To win, Axtell had to pin his ideal road trip, to a destination of his choice, on his Pinterest page, including pictures and captions that described the attractions he would attend, the clothes he would wear and the music to which he’d listen. Volvo selected the winners — Axtell was one of three winners in the United States selected out of 700 applicants — based on which page had the most likes, comments and repins between Sept. 5 and Sept. 26. For Axtell, that meant pushing his Facebook friends to get involved. “That was the real legwork,” Axtell said. “My friends probably got annoyed with me.” A car enthusiast and socialmedia junkie, Axtell follows Volvo on Pinterest and saw the details of the contest the day it was announced. That day, Sept. 5, Axtell plugged in a route to Colorado Springs, a destination he chose because he could visit friends, through Google. Throughout the route, Google

GEORGIA

Day 1 Stopped in Ashburn, Ga., to see the world’s largest peanut monument. Drove 12 hours to Nashville, Tenn. Ate dinner at Merchants Bistro where Axtell had fried green tomatoes and a salmon BLT.

FLORIDA

Axtell’s friends from University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee hosted a send-off party at the school. recommended attractions. Axtell then vigorously researched each, selected some that interested him and sprinkled eccentric details to the trip that gave it “Joe style.” On his Pinterest page, Axtell posted a picture of a Volvo dealership in Colorado Springs where he could drop off the car for an oil change. He even detailed the name of a potential salesman there. He posted a caption that detailed his devotion to his ride, how he would hand wash the Volvo S60 T5 and scrub its snowy floor mats if it got dirty. He gave a shoutout to Lady Gaga, telling followers, “It is highly likely I will listen to songs from her album, ‘Born This Way,’ multiple times during the trip.” By the end, each picture earned about 31 to 35 likes. “I think Volvo liked that I was conscientious about maintaining the car,” Axtell said. “I’m very meticulous about keeping

cars clean. I geared the trip toward me, and maybe that is why I won. I mean, not listening to Lady Gaga would not be me.” As the Oct. 1 deadline to announce the winners passed, Axtell grew nervous and began pestering Volvo with emails for a week. “I was like, ‘Come on, who is winning here?’” Axtell said. Finally, during the second week in October, Volvo messaged Axtell on Twitter. “It was obvious I won then,” Axtell said. “No one believed me.” After he learned the news, Axtell teamed with the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee to host a send-off party at the school with his friends. Axtell and his school teamed up to create a Facebook fan page, and USF livestreamed video and photos. Axtell also promised Volvo he would blog about the trip throughout.

On the morning of Dec. 1, Axtell and his fiancé picked up the vehicle at the Volvo of Sarasota. The trip started out like any other day. On the trip’s second day, Axtell took a break from a “boring and gruesome” drive through the cornfields of Kansas to pick up a 150-watt power inverter for his Apple laptop and spent hours locked up in his hotel room cranking out a business plan due for a class that day. Later, Axtell and his fiancé enjoyed the unusual. Axtell went nose-to-nose with a squirrel outside the Cheyenne resort when the rodent boldly approached him. “Squirrels don’t normally do that,” Axtell said. “It was memorable.” To cap the trip, the couple took a two-hour detour to Breckenridge, Colo., where they stopped to chase a herd of horses and pet a donkey before they drifted on a gondola lift — a cable car aerial lift propelled by cables — above the snowy mountains of a ski resort. “The mountains were mesmerizing,” Axtell said. “Breckenridge was so homey and nice. I wish I could live there.” As he reflected on a trip that surpassed his expectations, Axtell made a plea to Volvo. “Hopefully they saw how passionate I was about their brand so maybe I can work for them one day,” Axtell said.

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By the Numbers 86.059 Total gallons of gas used 9 Total stops for gas 12 Total number of listens to Lady Gaga songs

8 Total number of states driven through 1 Number of audio books listened to during the trip

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

bserved on YourObserver.com Read DAILY news online from the longboat Observer, Pelican press and Sarasota Observer

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+ Emergency management talks

+ Hudson Bayou battles speeders

Speeding continues to be a problem on Orange AveSiesta Key Association member Bob Luckner recently nue, the north-south street often used as an alternative took a seat on the Sarasota County Fire-Rescue and cut-through to get to and from south Sarasota. Michael Emergency ManSchneiderman, who lives directly on Orange Avenue in agement Advisory the Hudson Bayou neighborhood, sent an email to City Board. Commissioner Terry Turner, Dec. 5, asking city officials During an SKA to consider installing two additional speed tables, on a meeting, Luckner quarter-mile stretch of Orange Avenue. outlined issues the Many drivers speed up after they pass the flashing county’s emergency speed sign just south of the Hudson Bayou bridge. operations currentEven more traffic has been temporarily rerouted ly face, including to Orange Avenue because Osprey Avenue has been scarcity of medical closed for construction work on the lift station No. 7. supplies, and said that although he’s an at-large member, he would keep Siesta in mind with board decisions. In January, commissioners will discuss whether • city PINE AVENUE ANNA MARIA Ron Flynn, another board member, used his telecomto extend the leash ordinance to Payne Park, the city’s munications background to analyze the county’s plan to Unique shops, great foodsignature and eclectic onopened the in 2007. $8.8 million parkart that replace its emergency communications system, which is Greenest Little Mainstreet in America, no shoes required! A resident recently sent an email to city commisexpected to cost $30 million. sioners about unleashed dogs in Payne Park. Although a city ordinance requires pet owners to keep dogs on a leash at several other city parks, including Bayfront Park, Island park, The Sarasota County Traffic Advisory Council voted Gillespie and Arlington Park, there unanimously Dec. 10, in favor of decreasing the speed is no regulation at Payne Park. limit of a half-mile stretch of Midnight Pass Road. Another option would be for the Siesta Key resident Sarah Cooper filed the petition city to build a separate fenced to lower the 40-mile-per-hour speed limit between the • ANNA PINE AVENUE MARIA dog area where dogs can run intersections at Vista Hermosa Circle south to Sanderling freely, but that would require that Road by 15 miles per hour. greatbe food eclectic art on the funding setand aside. Cooper said neighbors joined the petition to improveUnique shops, Little Mainstreet in America, shoes required! Commissioners couldnoalso decide driver safety at intersections the 25-mile-per-hour Greenest zone to expand a pet-free area around the passing through restaurants and shops. playground, similar to an area set Sarasota County commissioners will consider the aside at Sapphire Shores Park. request early next year.

+ Leash rule considered at park

+ LBK Publix re-opens Thursday At 8 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 13, shopping will be a pleasure once again on Longboat Key. The island’s Publix will re-open nearly eight months after the Lakeland-based supermarket chain closed and demolished its 31-year-old store. The new store has 49,000 square feet and features an event-planning center, Pacific wok station, salad bar with more than 20 items, enhanced produce, deli, bakery and seafood departments, coffee and many additional gluten-free, organic and international products. It also has a seating area with free Wi-Fi. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at 7:45 a.m. Thursday. The store will have many free samples as well as gifts for the first several hundred customers. Store hours will be 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week.

+ TAC asks for lower speed limit

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• Your annual deductibles have likely been covered • You can minimize time off from work

Dear Editor: “Mom, there’s a meeting tonight, and I want to sign-up for marching band.” Little did I know that my child just committed herself to a program that would teach her many life’s lessons. Not just learning how to play a mellophone or reading sheet music but real-life lessons of being accountable of her time; the history of music; becoming a leader; balancing school work and performance schedules; comradely and respect for others; learning the pains of defeat; the ability of brushing off and picking oneself up again; the lesson of winning as a team; and, finally, friendships that they will take with them for a lifetime! Everyone plays an intricate part of the marching band. The final product of the show has many hands involved to be successful. They include a director and staff who have a love of music, teenagers and also endless patience. A successful band will have students who excel in academics, are self-motivated and committed to their peers and directors. A booster committee is set up to boost the marching band students financially and support them in the areas that are needed. Areas include money for uniforms, equipment trailers, props, fundraising, color guard flags, snacks and water and recruiting volunteers. If one of these areas is deficient, it is nearly impossible to make it as a marching band or to finals. The eagerness, the willingness and the time commitment that our directors,

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students and volunteering parents sign up for is put forth the moment of conception of the show all of the way to semifinals and, ultimately, to finals. This year’s show named “JOY” was just that — a joy to be a part of and a joy to watch. Over the past few months I have watched a group of teenagers and band directors turn songs into a creative performance. A performance with color, movement and amazing sounds. When the nine-minute show is over, there are literally tears of joy in the stands. As a mother, a band booster member and band volunteer, I would strongly suggest if your child asks to sign-up for marching band, say yes! Be prepared for your child to learn not only how to play an instrument but to learn life’s lessons without even knowing it. The greatest gift I have given three of my daughters and will give to one next year, was to say yes, commit my time, my expertise because I, too, have learned and gained a lifetime of respect for our music teachers, band directors, volunteers and new friendships! Thank you to everyone who was a part of the Braden River Marching Band of Pirates 3A state champions! Jolene Shindler East County

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

SUPERINTENDENT / PAGE 1A

Looking for PEACE this Christmas?

Superintendent search The Manatee County School Board’s citizen advisory group met for the first time Dec. 6, to help find a new superintendent. The group will meet again at 5 p.m. Dec. 18, at the district administration building, to discuss how they will organize the job of collecting and reading resumes before interviewing and running background checks on the best candidates. The school board will select the final candidates Jan. 30, based on recommendations from Dr. Wayne Blanton, of the Florida School Boards Association, and the citizen advisory group. Blanton said 350 candidates have expressed interest in the position. Blanton expects there to be 40 formal applicants in total.

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completeness.” New board member Dave Miner, a long-time district critic, believes Gayler is on track to change that. “Dr. Gayler has really embraced the axiom that we need to be transparent with the budget,” Miner said. “The board will not approve any budget that isn’t understood by us and by the public. Gayler is putting together a template of how every district should be run.” Gayler left retirement to lift a district that gave him fond memories. In 2001, former Superintendent Dan Nolan hired him as an assistant, a position Gayler held for 10 months. Now, Gayler, who says he doesn’t regret leaving retirement, wants to turn around a district that once took a chance on him. “My best work will be moving this board forward,” Gayler said. “I’m here to help so the next superintendent can make this board a priority. I relish the challenge.” Contact Josh Siegel at jsiegel@yourobserver.com.

Peace Presbyterian Church 10902 Technology Drive, Lakewood Ranch (on the corner of Lakewood Ranch Blvd. between state routes 70 and 64)

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Gayler later helped to recoup much of those losses and fixed the errors. At the workshop last week, Michael Boyer, chief financial officer for the district, said that a system used to integrate the accounting functions of departments and track the hires and departures of teachers was cut off in 2009. Boyer and Gayler said failure contributed to the deficit, and they speculated the losses were covered somewhat by reserves. Gayler said he would make up for the losses by cutting from the district’s foodservice program and by limiting overtime. The district won’t implement a proposed $2.5 million in raises for American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, Supervisory and Managerial Personnel and the Manatee Education Association.  Gayler will also meet with department heads to discuss other savings opportunities. Gayler said he plans to take a closer look at utility expenses and find ways to save there, as well. He said the group discussed shutting down lights and air during the holidays, helping to gain a few hundred thousand dollars in savings from utilities. “We are scouring the budget for anything we can cut that doesn’t affect students,” Gayler said. “This is as true as a statement as I can say: The community and the board has been asking, ‘Where is the money?’ When that question is asked, you know you have problems. We have to change the conversation to, ‘How best should we spend the money?’” To make financial decisions more clear, Gayler wants to install a line-item budget, for which every expense from each department, school and grant is listed, lineby-line, by mid-January. Board Chairwoman Karen Carpenter said past budgets, spread out in hundreds of pages, were hard to decipher. Still, the board approved them. “That’s not happening anymore,” Carpenter said. “This is about clarity and

11A

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12A

COMMUNITYCALENDAR

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CYD GingerbreaD Festival — runs from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Dec. 14 through Dec. 15, and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 16, at the Potter Building at the Sarasota Fairgrounds. See a winter wonderland of decorated gingerbread houses and more. Admission is $1. Info, cydonline.org.

South Manatee Business Coalition Holiday Social — runs from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Gold Coast Eagle Distributing, 7051 Wireless Court, Sarasota. Attendees must be 21 or older to attend. Guests are asked to bring a new, unwrapped children’s toy for Toys for Tots or a $10 donation that will be used to purchase toys. Info, smbusinesscoalition.org. Charity Bar Night — runs from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Polo Grill Bar, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch. Celebrity bartenders include comedian Tim Wilkins; Lauren Dorsett from WWSB; Dana Lawrence of local band Kettle of Fish; Dr. Kyle Garner, chief of Obstetrics & Gynecology at Sarasota Memorial Hospital; Danielle Pardue of Blingin’ Teez; Matt Bower of Luhrsen Law Group; and Cory Dias of U.S. Lawns. Proceeds benefit the Florida Suncoast Chapter of JDRF. For info, call Julianna Nova at 782-0899.

friday, Dec. 14

Unique, live musical events that entertain, engage and inspire.

Family Menorah Lighting — starts at 6 p.m. at Temple Beth El Bradenton, 4200 32nd St. W., Bradenton. Enjoy this Hanukkah celebration and potluck dinner community open house. Bring your family menorah to light as the temple lights the menorah rescued from the Shoah. RSVP to 755-4900. Holidays Around the Ranch — runs from 6 to 9 p.m. at Lakewood Ranch Main Street. Enjoy photos with Santa, live music, “ice” skating and other family-friendly activities. Info, lwrcac.com. Karaoke with Cowboy George — runs from 7 to 10 p.m. at Linger Lodge restaurant, 7205 85th St. Ct. E., Bradenton. Info, 755-2757 or lingerlodgeresort.com. ‘The Light Has Come: Jesus’ — starts at 7 p.m. at Family of God United Methodist Church, 5601 16th Ave. E., Palmetto. Enjoy a dynamic piano duo, a handbell choir and more for this Christmas celebration. Info, 7227065.

Sarasota’s Professional Chorus Artistic Director, Joseph Holt

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A Holiday Spectacular featuring the Sarasota Premiere of Gwyneth Walker’s “Alpha and Omega” and the Sarasota Orchestra Brass Quintet Tuesday, December 18 • 7:30 PM • First Church, 104 S. Pineapple Ave, Sarasota

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All of your favorite songs of the season – Marc Schreiner, tenor Jingle Bells, Gesu Bambino, Some Children See Him, Behold that Star, Here Comes Santa Claus, Twelve Days of Christmas, ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, O Holy Night, Deck the Halls, Trumpeter’s Lullaby, Most Wonderful Time of the Year, Christmas Waltz, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Winter Wonderland, Silent Night, White Christmas, Jingle Bell Rock, I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus, Santa Baby, The Christmas Song, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman, We Wish You a Merry Christmas, and more...

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Santa’s Workshop Children can enjoy making crafts and decorating sugar cookies in Santa’s workshop

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Santa will arrive in full holiday splendor on a horse drawn carriage at 6pm. Photo opportunities available.

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EAST COUNTY Observer

14A

EAST COUNTY Observer

YourObserver.com

festive occasion

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

by Pam Eubanks | Managing Editor

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The Lakewood Ranch Garden Club made floral arrangements for homebound East County seniors at their Dec. 10 meeting. LAKEWOOD RANCH — Members of the Lakewood Ranch Garden Club put their eye for natural beauty to use, after their regular meeting Dec. 10, as they sifted through ribbon, silk flowers, ornaments and other decorations to use on 15 floral arrangements intended to bring holiday cheer to homebound seniors. “We deliver (the arrangements) to Meals on Wheels (PLUS for distribution),” said Sheryl Perkins, club vice president and programs coordinator. “We don’t know who gets them.” The ladies, who typically spend their meetings hearing from guest speakers and going on field trips, stuffed coffee mugs and similar items with floral foam, before inserting leaves, flowers, ribbons and other decorations. Although some were veterans of making flower arrangements, others learned as they went, getting help from the more practiced members. It’s the second year the group has made arrangements for seniors in need, Perkins said. “I think it’s one of the best things we do,” member Lucrecia Lackey said of the event. “Meals on Wheels is dear to me. There are so many shut-ins who don’t see people or don’t have anything festive in their house (for the holidays). We provide a little holiday cheer for them.” Contact Pam Eubanks at peubanks@ yourobserver.com.

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“It’s a lot of fun,” club member Cheryl Griesbach said of the arrangement-making activity. “We’re all learning.”

Club Co-President Marcia Pisoni glues hard candy onto branches for her arrangement.

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SEASONS GREETINGS

15A

by Pam Eubanks | Managing Editor

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Holidays Around the Ranch will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 14, at Lakewood Ranch Main Street. LAKEWOOD RANCH — Santa Claus is coming to town, and he’ll be riding in a horse-drawn carriage when he arrives Dec. 14 on Lakewood Ranch Main Street for this year’s Holidays Around the Ranch. The annual family-friendly event, hosted by Lakewood Ranch Community Activities Corp., will start at 6 p.m. with Santa’s “sleigh” making its way from the Polo Grill restaurant toward Lakewood Ranch Cinemas. A tree-lighting ceremony will begin at 6:30 p.m., and members of Harvest United Methodist Church’s choir also will help lead the crowd in Christmas carols immediately before and after the lighting ceremony. Attendees also can enjoy other festivities, including photos with Santa, face painting, sugar cookie decorating and crafts, performances by local dance teams, a trackless train, “ice” skating and more. “It’s a fun family-holiday tradition in the community that’s well anticipated,” said Lori Basilone, event organizer and director of Community Activities. “The sponsors offer activities or giveaways at their tables, too.

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“It’s a free event, but we ask everybody who comes to donate either a non-perishable food item for the Food Bank (of Manatee) or a toy for Toys for Tots (if they can).” Food and drink, including hot cocoa, coffee and eggnog, will be available for purchase, as well.

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Performance Schedule 6 to 6:15 p.m. — MSA Heat 6:15 to 6:45 p.m. — Tree lighting & Harvest United Methodist Choir 6:45 to 7:05 p.m. — Studio of Dance and Music 7:05 to 7:20 p.m. — KC & the Sunshine Dancers 7:20 to 7:30 p.m. — Lakewood Ranch Silver Stars 7:30 to 7:38 p.m. — Silver Lightning Dance Team 7:40 to 8:05 p.m. — Dance team performances 8:05 to 8:10 p.m. — Silver Lightning Dance Team 8:10 to 9 p.m. — Southeast High School Chamber Orchestra

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EAST COUNTY Observer

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

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16A

EAST COUNTY Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

SEASON OF SHARING

Barbara Blumfield

What a Beautiful Gift to Give for only 7 ! PENDANT SCARVES $

Barbara Blumfield, a Sarasota Bay Club resident, has donated to Season of Sharing for the past 10 years.

Each week through December, The Observer will feature a local donor who is involved with Season of Sharing, a 13-year, community-wide fundraising partnership created by The Community Foundation.

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paign in the newspaper, she saw an opportunity to put her giving nature to use. “Season of Sharing caught my attention immediately,” she says. “When I see the families, and I realize they’re the ones being helped, there’s a real one-to-one relationship. There’s an opportunity to help right here in Sarasota.” Now, 10 years later, Blumfield continues to donate to the campaign annually. She says that though she’s also involved in donating to the local arts scene, supporting organizations such as the opera, ballet and orchestra, the Season of Sharing campaign offers a unique philanthropic opportunity that keeps her donating each year. “It’s such a worthwhile cause,” she says. “One hundred percent of the money goes to charity. It reaches so many so many people — it’s beautiful.” — Nick Friedman

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Barbara Blumfield has had a giving spirit since she was a child. She says that seeing her parents help friends and relatives move from Germany to the United States, to escape the Holocaust, inspired her to start helping people in any way possible, so she started donating to her temple and the Jewish Federation. “That stuck in my mind the most,” she says of her parents’ generosity. “It just became the natural thing to do — the thing you wanted to do. My father was in a position in which he was lucky enough to have some money, and he wanted to be able to help those in need.” Born and raised in Chicago, Blumfield moved to Alton, Ill., a small town, which she says helped her be more aware of issues taking place on a local level. She began visiting Longboat Key in 1993 as a snowbird, and she says it wasn’t long before she fell in love with Sarasota’s local arts scene and thriving culture, in which she became involved. Despite its reputation as a relatively affluent area, Blumfield also realized that there were a lot of local families in need of help, and when she read about the Season of Sharing cam-

EAST COUNTY Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

IT’S READ EVERYWHERE

17A

ICELAND. Claudia and Bob Bolcik, of Tara, visited Reykjavik, Iceland, during a cruise across the Atlantic, in August. “This is the farthest northern point on Earth that we have visited, although we lived in Fairbanks, Alaska, when we were first married in 1957,” Bob Bolcik says. “There isn’t much to see in Iceland, except miles and miles of lava fields. We were docked on the southern coast but did not have time to go inland up to see the glaciers. We did see a few icebergs, however.”

PENNSYLVANIA. Jeff and Sarah Sands brought their favorite hometown newspaper along on a Sept. 22 trip to Beaver Stadium to watch Penn State play Temple University. “It was a great read on the plane,” Sarah says of the East County Observer.

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18A

Perfect Gifts for the

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EAST COUNTY Observer

YourObserver.com

MANATEE

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

Corner

The following information was gathered from incident and arrest reports obtained from the Manatee County Sheriff ’s Office.

before driving into a ditch in the 1700 block of State Road 70. The woman was transported to the hospital.

Dec. 4

Cheap shot

7:45 a.m. — 6200 block of Wauchula Road. Information Only. A man reported hearing a gunshot and noticed blood in his dog’s fur when it returned home afterward. It appeared the dog was shot with a small gun of unknown type. The dog was struck on its left side near its hip, and the bullet exited near the tail. When a deputy arrived, the dog was running around and appeared healthy. The deputy warned the man to secure his pet in the future.

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Dec. 5

Lesson learned

DEC. 3

Welcome home

Noon — 13500 block of Montclair Place. Burglary. A burglar stole two televisions and a surround-sound system from a home. There were no signs of forced entry, and there were no additional disturbances at the residence. The residents had recently relocated to Connecticut, and a house sitter was watching the home while the owners were gone.

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Wild ride

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11:22 p.m. — 1700 block of State Road 70. DUI. A deputy observed a woman run a red light at State Road 70 and Lakewood Ranch Boulevard. The woman was heading east at about 65 mph. The deputy attempted to catch up to her, at which time he observed her swerve over three lanes and also run another red light, at State Road 70 and Lorraine Road. The deputy then tried to initiate a traffic stop, but the woman sped up and continued to swerve. Pursuit speeds never exceeded 80 mph, but the woman drove off the road into the grass and continued eastbound for about three-tenths of a mile,

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10 a.m. — 8200 block of Country Park Way. Found Property Not Stolen. A deputy found two teenagers with backpacks walking near a neighborhood lake. The teenagers, hidden behind some bushes, admitted to skipping school that day. One of the teenagers smelled of marijuana and handed the officer two grams of marijuana and a small pipe. The teenager had no criminal record, and both teenagers were cooperative during the incident. No charges were filed, and the deputy returned the teenagers to school after contacting their parents.

Ungraceful exit

2:28 p.m. — 8300 block of Lockwood Ridge Road. Information Only. A man reported that he had to fire an employee. The fired employee told the employer he would kill the man who fired him. The man said the fired employee has a criminal history in Sarasota and Manatee counties, and that he would call for a trespass warning if the fired employee returns to the business.

Read more Cops Corner reports online. www.YourObserver.com

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Sports

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Ryan Sollazzo scores his first hat trick of the season. 23A

YourObserver.com

SIGNING DAY

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

by Jen Blanco| Sports Editor

Mustangs commit to colleges

MARTIAL ARTS by Jen Blanco| Sports Editor

Lakewood swimmers Danielle Valley and Will Kazokas and softball players Taylor Newton, Jenn Trotter and McKaleigh Goodale made their college decisions known.

Jen Blanco

East County resident Robyn LeBuffe, right, pictured with her business partner, Justin Ortiz, opened Ultimate Tiger Martial Arts two years ago when she was 16 years old.

School of champions East County resident Robyn LeBuffe opened a martial-arts school when she was 16 years old. Photos by Jen Blanco

Lakewood Ranch High second baseman Jenn Trotter, with her parents, Lee Trotter and Angela Fulghum, and shortstop McKaleigh Goodale, with her sister, Sammantha, and parents, Kevin and Stacey, have been playing softball together since they were 9 years old. LAKEWOOD RANCH — Taylor Newton, Jenn Trotter and McKaleigh Goodale have become inseparable. The three Lakewood Ranch High seniors took the field together for the first time when they were 9 years old; and they’ve been playing softball together ever since. Whether it’s cheering their teammates on from the dugout, huddling together in the middle of the infield or gossiping about their days, there’s rarely a day that goes by that the three best friends aren’t together. So, it’s only fitting that the friends would be alongside one another, as they prepare to embark on the next journey in their softball careers. On Dec. 7, Newton, Trotter and Goodale signed national letters of intent to play

college softball. “It’s really amazing,” Newton says. “I’m excited for them and for me, but it’s also bittersweet.” Goodale agrees. “It’s amazing,” Goodale says. “We’ve been playing together for so long and we’ve seen each other (grow). So, to be able to do this together is a dream come true.” Newton, a center fielder, will be heading to James Madison University next year to study biology with the hopes of becoming an orthodontist. Newton looked at a handful of other schools, but once she set foot on James Madison’s campus, she knew it was the school for her. “Once I went to James Madison, I began comparing

every other school to that school,” Newton says. “It has a beautiful softball facility and the campus is beautiful. It’s a really great school where I can get a great education and still play softball.” With a new coach at the helm, Newton knows she’ll have to prove herself to earn a spot in the starting lineup. “Everyone is going to be competing for a spot, so I definitely need to work hard and beat someone else out,” Newton says.” Trotter, a second baseman, will play for the State College of Florida next year with the hope of eventually moving on to play for the University of South Florida, the University of Central Florida or Florida Gulf Coast University. “I’m a daddy’s girl, and I like to stay home,” says Trotter, who plans to major in

BRADENTON — Robyn LeBuffe isn’t intimidated by age. To the 18-year-old East County resident, age is merely a number. So, after deciding she wanted to open her own martial-arts school, LeBuffe was determined not to let anything stand in her way — not even the fact that she was 16 years old and a junior at Manatee School for the Arts. “I was tired of teaching for other people,” LeBuffe says. “It was hard to teach someone a style that I didn’t necessarily know. I wanted to be able to teach what I knew and what I was good at. “My (friend) told me I should open my own (school),” LeBuffe says. “I said, ‘But I’m only 16.’ That’s when she said, ‘Is age really going to stop you?’” Unbeknownst to her mom, Pam, LeBuffe started making flyers and arranged to teach out of a local gym. Within two weeks, LeBuffe had five clients. The following year her mom signed a lease for her on a 1,045-square-foot space in West Bradenton, where she opened Ul-

SEE SIGNINGS / PAGE 20A

SEE LEBUFFE / PAGE 21A

Lakewood Ranch High center fielder Taylor Newton, pictured with her younger sister, Logan, and her parents, Jimmy and Marcy, will play for James Madison University next year.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

TENNIS

Right: Swimmers Will Kazokas, pictured with his mom, Benet, and Danielle Valley, pictured with her parents, Greg and Cindy, will be continuing swimming for the Sarasota Sharks before heading off to Cornell University and the University of Florida, respectively.

by Jen Blanco | Sports Editor

Lady Pirate tennis player signs with Coastal Carolina

Braden River High senior Marie Babayan signed a national letter of intent Nov. 16 to play tennis for Coastal Carolina University.

SIGNINGS / FROM PAGE 19A athletic training. “I don’t feel like I can leave them yet.” Goodale, who plays shortstop, will be heading to Wagner College, in New York. Goodale also looked at some Ivy League schools, but in the end she felt Wagner College would be the best fit. “It’s 20 minutes from the city and city life is something that excites me,” Goodale says. “I wanted a new (environment). Bradenton is very hometown, and I wanted to go to a fast-paced (city).” Goodale, who originally planned to enter the medical field to become a neurosurgeon, is now leaning toward business, and she wants to make an immediate impact with the Seahawks. “My (new) coach is expecting me to come in and take leadership of the team,” Goodale says. “He says I’m going to be a key component. I’m excited but also a little nervous.” Joining Newton, Trotter and Goodale in the signing celebration were senior swimmers Will Kazokas and Danielle Valley. Valley, who defended her 500-yard freestyle state title at the Class 2A Swim-

BRADEN RIVER — More often than not, Marie Babayan is competing for herself. As a USTA junior tennis player, the Braden River High senior doesn’t get to experience the camaraderie that comes from playing alongside your teammates, except for a few months in the spring, when she’s playing for the Lady Pirates. But beginning this fall, Babayan will routinely find herself training alongside several other tennis players, as a member of the Coastal Carolina University women’s tennis team. Babayan signed a national letter-of-intent Nov. 16, to play for the Chanticleers. “It is definitely a relief and a lot of weight off of my shoulders,” Babayan says. Babayan, who plans to major in exercise science, chose Coastal Carolina over Georgia Southern University. “I loved the area and I felt like I really fit into the school environment,” Babayan says. “I also felt like I really connected with the team which is one of the most important things when picking a school to play for. “I’m looking forward to competing with my team,” she says. “I enjoy having teammates, and it is a lot different from junior tennis, where you are competing on your own.” Babayan won her second Class 3ADistrict 12 title last spring after going undefeated throughout the regular season. Babayan qualified for her second Class 3A state tournament and reached the

ming & Diving Championships Nov. 8, will be heading to the University of Florida next year. “It’s close to home, and I really (connected) with the team, coaches and campus in general,” Valley says. “I called it,” Kazokas says. “I knew she wanted to go there. It was a known fact.” Valley plans to study business with the hope of one day becoming a pilot. For now, Valley will spend the remainder of her senior year swimming for the Sarasota Sharks before preparing to head off to Gainesville. Kazokas, who also swims for the Sharks, will be heading to Cornell University. Kazokas chose Cornell over Harvard because of its location and the team itself. “It was the one place I went where I immediately fit in with the team,” Kazokas says. “I love the coaches and it’s famous for my major — animal science. I also wanted to go far away and somewhere that’s cold. “There’s a lot more energy (in college swimming) and it’s very team-oriented,” Kazokas says. Contact Jen Blanco at jblanco@yourobserver.com.

Courtesy photo

Marie Babayan won her second Class 3A District 12 title last spring.

semifinals of the individual singles division. This spring, Babayan will look to defend her district title and advance further in the state tournament before preparing for the next step in her tennis career. Contact Jen Blanco at jblanco@yourobserver.com.

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+ Pirates boys basketball remains unbeaten

+ ODA boys fall to Shorecrest Prep

The Braden River High boys basketball team improved to 5-0 with a 53-47 victory over Port Charlotte Dec. 7. Senior forward Patrick Tart scored 12 points to lead the way for Braden River. Zechariah Kendall and Terrance Cummings both had 11 points and Trevon Young added 10 points.

The Out-of-Door Academy boys soccer team fell to Shorecrest Prep 3-2 Dec. 4. Tait Lystad and Hunter Clarke each scored one goal for the Thunder. Goalkeeper Bryan Kirshe had 12 saves.

The Out-of-Door Academy boys basketball team defeated St. Stephen’s 44-40, for its first win of the season Dec. 7. Nick Grano scored a game-high 18 points and Colbie Ward added 13 points to lead the way for the Thunder.

+ Lady Thunder basketball shoots past Lady Falcons The Out-of-Door Academy girls basketball team defeated St. Stephen’s 38-13 Dec. 7. Lisa Hoffman had 12 points, 12 rebounds and eight steals to lead the way for the Lady Thunder.

+ Lady Mustangs basketball picks up district win Lakewood Ranch freshman Elise Spiller scored a game-high 17 points, as the Lady Mustangs defeated Palmetto 42-30 in a Class 6A-District 12 game Dec. 7.

+ Mustangs tie Hurricanes The Lakewood Ranch High boys soccer team tied Manatee 1-1 Dec. 5. Team captain Ryan Sollazzo scored the lone goal for the Mustangs.

The Out-of-Door Academy boys and girls soccer teams both fell to rival St. Stephen’s in Class 1A-District 8 action Dec. 6. The boys lost 9-1 while the girls were blanked 2-0. Hunter Clarke scored the lone goal for ODA. Hannah Howell scored both a goal for the Lady Falcons.

+ Extra Innings to begin holding pitching clinics Extra Innings will be offering two pitching clinics, headed by former local major league baseball player Troy Mattes, beginning Dec. 18. Pitching 101 for ages 12 and under will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays. The clinic will be four sessions long and will focus on the basics of pitching. Areas of focus include: grips, footwork, balance, leg drive, release point, control, warm-up, stretching and arm maintenance, among others. Pitching 102 for ages 13 and up will be held from 6 to 7:15 p.m. Thursdays, beginning Dec. 20. This four-session clinic for more advanced pitchers will focus on the basics of various pitch grips and delivery along with throwing mechanics, bullpen routines, arm maintenance, commanding pitches and the mental aspects of pitching. Both clinics will be held to a maximum of 10 participants. The cost is $109 for members and $139 for nonmembers.

timate Tiger Martial Arts. LeBuffe graduated from MSA in June and Oct. 24 she and her business partner, Justin Ortiz, moved into a 1,500-square-foot space down the street. Ultimate Martial Arts is a traditional Goju Ryu karate school with a sport karate twist. “I love teaching the kids what I know,” LeBuffe says. “The best part is watching them grow as martial artists. It’s an honor to see them grow and know that you’re an important part of their life. “I want my students to live their dreams,” LeBuffe says. “Whether it’s getting their black belt of winning a world championship, I want them to reach their dreams like I’m reaching mine.” LeBuffe began taking martial arts when she was 7 years old, after deciding to forgo gymnastics. She attended one of her cousin’s martial-arts competitions and immediately fell in love with the artform. After her former school closed while she was preparing to test for her black belt, LeBuffe took a step back and turned her attention to Goju Ryu. One-and-a-half years later, LeBuffe, then 11, earned her black belt. “I was almost ready to give up hope,” LeBuffe says. “It felt (amazing) to finally have that black belt around my waist. It was the hardest test I’ve ever had to take, but it was a goal that I finally reached.” Since then, LeBuffe has become one of the most decorated super lightweight female fighters in the world. She was ranked No. 2 in the world before winning her first competition as an adult super lightweight fighter in July. Most recently, LeBuffe won her first World Kickboxing Association world championship as an adult. “It was actually phenomenal,” LeBuffe says. “This was my first year competing as an adult, and I ended up coming out on top. I’ve learned there’s no end to it. Dreams really do come true.” Now in addition to running her own school, LeBuffe is in the process of trying to obtain a full sponsorship with Team Paul Mitchell Karate. “That’s been a dream of mine since I was a really young girl,” LeBuffe says. “There’s only two girls on the team right now. It’s the top team, and it’s extremely professional. Whenever I saw someone from Paul Mitchell I always thought, ‘Wow, you must be really good.’ It’s a hard team to get on.” Contact Jen Blanco at jblanco@yourobserver.com.

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+ Thunder boys basketball nabs first win during game

21A

LEBUFFE / FROM PAGE 19A

+ ODA boys and girls soccer falls to St. Stephen’s

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

22A

EAST COUNTY Observer

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

COMMUNITY GOLF SCOREBOARD + Lakewood Ranch • Patrick Kenefick and Chris Eckstrom scored 189 to win the overall championship of the 2012 Men’s Fall Member Guest event Nov. 8 to Nov. 10. • Richard Levy and Frank Fairman scored 195 to win the Augusta National Flight. • Ron Zabel and Doug Zabel scored 201 to win the Muirfield Flight. • Kip Radigan and Vince Levito scored 194 to win the Pebble Beach Flight. • John Turyan and Joe Ogrodnik scored 203 to win the Pine Valley Flight. • Tom McManus and Bob Marotto scored 197 to win the Oakmont Flight. • Patrick Kenefick and Chris Eckstrom scored 189 to win the St. Andrews Flight. • Matthew Arcari and Jim Soda scored 200 to win the Cherry Hills Flight. • Charles Kimsey and Tim Moody scored 194 to win the Pinehurst Flight. • Richard Levitan and Doug Simmonds scored 191 to win the Seminole Flight.

• Dawn Burcham and Jane Imperial shot 57 to win Flight 1 of the Players’ Cup WGA event Dec. 4 on Cypress Links. Pat Wapole and Candice McMahon shot 56 to win Flight 2. Betty Kabara and Pat Smith shot 57 to win Flight 3.

+ Palm-Aire • Mary Ann McMerty, Judy Moon, Pat Merchant and Jane Donahoe scored 138 to win the two best balls on par 4s and 5s, three best balls on par 3s Ladies Buddy event Dec. 1, on the Champions Course. • Mary Beth Grey, Donna Vasko, Betty Goldman and Mary Amanti scored 120 to win team quota points WGA event Dec. 4, on the Champions Course. • Sandy Gordon, Grant Dazey and Don Page scored -3.25 to win the MGA scramble event Dec. 5, on the Lakes Course.

+ River Club • Jack Bostrom used his 9-iron to record an ace Oct. 29 on the 112-yard No. 15 of the River Club Golf Course. • Jan Doede, PJ McCaleb and Liz Bostrom finished -2 to win the best ball LGA event Nov. 4. • Noel Pressler shot 69 to win Flight 1 of the low net LGA event Nov. 13. Judy Wayer shot 78 to win Flight 2.

• Noel Pressler scored 27 to win the low putts LGA event Dec. 4.

+ Rosedale • The ladies scored 29.5 to win the fourball match play Battle of the Sexes event Nov. 9. • Carl Koenig shot 72 to win the low net MGA event Nov. 14.

+ Tara • Tom Davis used his 6-iron to record an ace Oct. 26 on the 132-yard No. 17 of Tara Golf and Country Club. • Richard Airchison used his 4-Hybrid to record an ace Nov. 1, on the 148-yard No. 4 of Tara Golf and Country Club. • Walter Limmer used his 4-Hybrid to record an ace Nov. 9 on the 152-yard No. 13 of Tara Golf and Country Club. • Marilyn Johnson, Carole St. George, Lee Stamos and Barabara Moorhead won the two best balls of four net LGA event Nov. 13. • Jim Peters used his 6-iron to record an ace Nov. 14 on the 141-yard No. 13 of Tara Golf and Country Club. • Elaine Drewniak, Martha Brandon, Florie Hartnack and Carolyn Howard scored

S A R A S OTA

47 to win the front nine portion of the 1-2-2 on 3-4-5 nine-hole event Nov. 29. Mickey Boughton, Ginny Pike and Shirley Overmyer shot 50 to win the back nine portion. • Lynnda Quirk won the Scarlett Cup WGA event Dec. 4.

+ University Park • John Haddock used his 5-iron to record an ace Oct. 26 on the 135-yard No. 16 of University Park Country Club. • Judy Jones scored 32 to win the low individual net nine-hole LGA event Nov. 29. • Mike and Donna Katos and Bruce and Lynn Wallin scored -25 to win the 6-6-6 Couples Holiday Fun event Dec. 2. • Randy Holden and John Gillies shot 58 to win holes one through 10 of the one best ball of two MGA two-man stroke play event Dec. 5. Pat Thompson, Mark Miller, Walt Towslee and Peter Pasold shot 62 to win holes 10-19.

+ Waterlefe • Ed Ellis used his 5-iron to record an ace Nov. 26 on the 148-yard No. 15 of the Waterlefe Golf and River Club.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

athlete of the week

23A

by Jen Blanco | Sports Editor

Ryan Sollazzo Lakewood Ranch High junior forward Ryan Sollazzo recorded his first hat trick of the season to help lead the Mustangs to a 4-0 victory over district rival Braden River Nov. 28. Sollazzo, who has 18 goals on the season, also scored the lone goal in Lakewood’s 1-1 tie against Manatee Dec. 5.

Why do you think you have seen so much success this season? I’m faster than the defenders. My teammates also send me perfect balls through (the middle). Teams know that I’m the person that scores all of the goals, so I get the ball more. That helps, too, but mainly it’s my speed that allows me to run by defenders.

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PAGE 10B

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FESIVAL OF LIGHTS

by Pam Eubanks | Managing Editor

Members of Chabad of Bradenton and the area’s Jewish community gathered Tuesday, Dec. 10, on Lakewood Ranch Main Street, to celebrate Hanukkah with a special menorah-lighting ceremony, kosher food, face painting, raffles and other festivities. Children also had the opportunity to learn how to make a menorah from sand, from the company that created the sand menorah used for the lighting ceremony. The event was sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee and Lakewood Ranch Main Street.

Rabbi Mendy Bukiet welcomes guests.

A Sand-sational Hanukkah

Above: Siblings Shai and Mason Augoshe and Lilly Robertson enjoy the night with their parents, Debra and Chris Robertson, not pictured. Right: Sandy and Phyllis Silverman live in University Park.

Above: Bobbi Frey cooks doughnuts with her sister, Sharon Zimmerman.

Lily Schlosberg, 5, learns how to make a menorah out of sand.

David Korman gives his daughter, Zoe, 5, a ride.

Above: Dawn Dimetri with Braden River High School student Cat Cropsey and Palm-Aire resident Rachel Kaufman Dr. Gerald Stark and his wife, Annette, live in Lakewood Ranch.

EAST COUNTY Observer

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

taste of the holidays By Josh Siegel | Staff Writer

Holiday spirit grows at Palm Aire Garden Club holiday luncheon

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The Palm Aire Garden Club held its annual holiday luncheon Wednesday, Dec. 5. Nearly 40 club members attended the luncheon, where they took part in a raffle and exchanged gifts. The 30-yearold Garden Club, which has 50 members, raises money for charities, including the Ringling Rose Garden.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

SHOE-in

by Gabby Ojeda | Observer Intern

Us Cate t e xt Holiday r

L our Ne

Par ty *

• Appetizers • Sandwiches • Famous Homemade • Salads • Entrees Desserts *

please place order at least 48 hours prior to event.

Call today for more information: 755 - 1800

Shoebox drive benefits seniors Guests of the Community Shoebox Reception gathered together for a holiday party, Sunday, Dec. 2, at the Polo Grill and Bar. Each guest brought a filled shoebox or a donation of at least $20 and enjoyed free drinks and food, music and raffles. The event benefited Meals on Wheels Plus, which will distribute the shoeboxes to homebound senior citizens in need.

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Pascarella Above: Alice Heint and Maribeth Phillips Below: Ken and Irene Herman

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UC RED

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ED P

7915 rOyal bIrKDale cIrcle

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| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |

The Observers

Don’t Miss these special eDitions!

December 27, Year in Pictures Deadline: Wednesday, December 12, 4pm

To reserve space or for questions, contact your Observer advertising representative

Happy Holidays from all your friends at The Observer

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The Observer Media Group offices will be closed from Dec. 24 until Jan. 2 SARASOTA LONGBOAT EAST COUNTY PELICAN PRESS

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enjoy Florida’s relaxing lifestyle in this 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with den located in a maintenance-free neighborhood. Popular great room design with many quality features. The inviting lanai has a southern exposure with amazing golf and water views and pool with custom waterfall.

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This is a meticulously maintained home in country club east with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and office all in neutral colors. luxury features include tray ceilings, custom builtins, decorator lighting, and custom draperies. This great room plan ensures there is no wasted space and looks out onto a private lanai with peaceful preserve views.

$355,000

13074 PereGrIn cIrcle

This sam rodgers built home has 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, bonus room, and 3-car oversized garage. Quality features include a leaded glass front door, electrolux stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, 10 - aquarium window, wood & tile flooring and impact glass throughout. The heated pool has a custom rock waterfall and Pebble Tec finish.

NEW

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January 3, Look Ahead to 2013 Deadline: Thursday, December 13, 4pm

With 3100 sq. ft. there are 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, den, and 3-car garage. Features found in million dollar homes are a Mahogany leaded-glass front door, chandeliers, plantation shutters, crown molding, butler’s bar, and central vac. The inviting lanai overlooks the golf course with a heated pool, spa and outdoor kitchen. yOu GeT IT all with this lushly landscaped home.

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December 20, Christmas Issue Deadline: Tuesday, December 11, 4pm

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Girl Scout volunteers Lauren Whiddon and Lily Botter

In Publix Shopping Center on the Corner of SR 70 and LWR Blvd Sunday - Thursday 11:30 - 10:30 • Friday & Saturday 11:30 - 11:30

97971

Lorena Abreu, a foreign exchange student from Brazil, and Lauren Redington collect shoeboxes.

EAST COUNTY Observer 4B YourObserver.com THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012 silent night By Pam Eubanks | Managing Editor

SO, YOu WAnt tO BE A

dOCtOr ?

Rae Dowling puts out a nativity set made by her mother-in-law, Carmel Dowling, in 1965.

Living Lord Lutheran Church brings Bethlehem to Lakewood Ranch

Human Body Explored (HBE) Program WHO: Students ages 14-18 WHEn: Once per month, January - April 2013

The parking area of Living Lord Lutheran Church transformed into the streets of Bethlehem Saturday, Dec. 1. During “A Night in Bethlehem,” travelers added their name to the scroll at the census-taker’s office, visited shops and visited Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus in the stable.

WHERE: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, 5000 Lakewood ranch Blvd., Bradenton COst: $150 Russell C. sexton, Ph.D., Director of Community Service

941.756.0690 x5642 rsexton@lecom.edu Registration forms available at

medicalcareersadventures.com

Barbara Miller and other villagers sing Christmas carols. 97156

HBE is a comparative anatomy and physiology course taught by current LECOM medical students and faculty. A laboratory component provides hands-on experiments related to lecture topics.

Swimming Pool Construction Soars as Coast to Coast Pools has already installed 100 pools in 2012 Mel Reinoehl, playing the role of a poor man, greets visitors as they enter the city.

e v i t a c re Rachel Gross portrays Mary.

Let’s get

oast to Coast Pools continues to be one of the leaders in the industry as they have already installed over 100 pools in 2012 and the year is not over yet! Adding to the thousands of satisfied pool customers, their goal is to be a leader in the Tri-County area and they are well on their way. They have most recently won 5 out of 7 design categories in the Parade of Homes 2012. Coast to Coast Pools is proud to have served our community for over 25 years. Specializing in new construction and remodeling, they also provide outstanding pool maintenance, repairs and equipment sales. “We treat each customer as if they are the only customer.

We want to keep each family excited and informed while we build their project”, says Dustin Pointer, Owner/Contractor of Coast to Coast Pools. Coast to Coast Pools professional design team knows it’s the details that make the pool of your dreams become reality. They set themselves apart by providing knowledge and experience during the design process. Their designers combine functionality with innovation by using the best products available. Contact Coast to Coast Pools, tell them what you envision and let them amaze you by creating an impressive, custom design that promises to surpass all your expectations.

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EAST COUNTY Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

Rae Dowling serves spiced tea to visitors in the candle shop.

We’re growing a future for creatures great and small.

Dot Horton, Karen Dwyer and Bob Horton

That’s our promise. Carson and Karrie Delay

Cara Sosso with her nephew, Nico Bonifate

As Mosaic produces essential phosphate crop nutrients to help the world grow the food it needs, our 3,000-plus Florida employees are unwavering in our commitment to wildlife stewardship. Mosaic has pioneered wildlife relocation techniques and created prime habitats, as well as financially supported wildlife rehabilitation and education. We’ve worked with regulators to develop the largest scrub jay population in Southwest Florida; we’ve reclaimed numerous popular fishing lakes; and we own and help fund an island sanctuary that is home to as many as 18,000 pairs of native water birds. At Mosaic, we are dedicated to the protection of local wildlife, and equally

Their only wish is a home for the holidays.

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ClAsses Begin:

Saturday, Jan. 12 • 9-11:30am

HAPPY

EAST COUNTY Observer

YourObserver.com

gift of giving

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

by Pam Eubanks | Managing Editor

Alliance social benefits Food Bank

holidays

Members of the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance spread their holiday cheer during the organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s holiday social, Wednesday, Dec. 5, at the Ritz-Carlton Members Golf Club. Attendees donated $1,200 and 850 pounds of food to Meals on Wheels PLUS, which operates The Food Bank of Manatee.

CELEBRATE AT POLO GRILL

breakfast witH

santa

Bill Kalter, of H&K Graphics

Susan Goldstein, of Michael Saunders Commercial, with Cindy Sloan, of The Food Bank of Manatee Below: Amanda Panico, of Tidemark Financial, with Dianne Kopczynski, of Mauldin and Jenkins

Saturday, December 22nd | 8:30 - 10:30 AM $15 for Adults | $10 for Children 12 & Under | Children 4 & under Free Call: 941.782.0899 ext. 235 for Reservations

christmas

day buffet

Tuesday, December 25th | 12:00 - 5:00 PM

Gregg and Mena Warmbier, of Windstream, with Tony Dempsey, of Sunstate Business Brokers

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$35.95 for Adults | $15.95 for Children 12 & Under | Children 4 & Under Free

years eve party Monday, December 31st RESERVATIONS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED

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Stephen Ackoury, of American Momentum Bank, with Lauren Boyle, of C1 Bank

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EAST COUNTY Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

gifts galore By Pam Eubanks | Managing Editor

McNeal offers holiday shopping at bazaar Families of McNeal Elementary school headed back to campus Thursday, Dec. 6, for some holiday shopping during the school’s Holiday Bazaar. Guests perused the hallways, which were full of vendors offering items such as jewelry, T-shirts, crafts, golf lessons and more. Attendees also enjoyed a bake sale, dinner and martial arts and other demonstrations. Left: Madison, Laureen and Jaxson Vassallo enjoy the evening.

Lexi Kahler, 8, checks out beads from Jesse Cat Jewels.

McNeal student Angelina Ortiz with her mom, Melissa Caro, and sister, Isabella Ortiz, a student at Nolan Middle School.

Holiday Blues The holiday season is a time of bustling activity, parties, shopping, baking and entertaining. However, for some people it is a time of sadness and despair. Perhaps there has been a recent death of a loved one or an end to a significant relationship. Perhaps there has been a recent diagnosis of cancer or illness in the family. Many people feel exhausted and overwhelmed by the expectations of the holidays. Symptoms of depression include anxiety, headaches, fatigue, stomach pains and irritability. Feelings of guilt and loneliness are common. Over time, there can be weight fluctuations, a change in sleep habits, decreased interest in activities and trouble concentrating and making decisions. Factors that contribute to depression are a family history of depression, stress and illness. For women, hormonal changes can cause mood changes. The menstrual cycle, menopause, and the birth of a baby can all trigger feelings of sadness.

There are ways to cope with depression. Examples include: setting realistic goals, engaging in activities that provide comfort and pleasure, exercising and talking to family members and friends. If these coping mechanisms do not work then seeing a physician would be a good next step. For young women, a visit to an OB/GYN doctor may help treat the mood changes around periods. For women in the later stages of life, an OB/GYN doctor can discuss the risks and benefits of hormonal replacement, as well as other alternatives. In my office at Lakewood Ranch, I counsel and treat women from adolescence to menopause and beyond. My office consists of an all female staff to help patients feel comfortable while discussing their concerns. Lakewood Ranch Obstetrics and Gynecology • 8340 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Suite 140 • Bradenton, FL 34202 - 941-907-9298 LV4476

Jennifer Swanson, MD | FACOG / Board Certified in Obstetrics & Gynecology

Raising children isn’t easy… and putting youR child in glasses is difficult. Choose a doctor with integrity who will give honest answers and make that transition a little easier. Comprehensive eye care including… children’s vision care and treatment of eye disease.

Jennifer Swanson, MD FACOG / Board Certified in Obstetrics & Gynecology

C OMPREHENSIVE C ARE FOR WOMEN OF A LL AGES !

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•

Dr. Troy Bedinghaus Board Certified Optometric Physician LV3582

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3 Convenient Locations Open Daily 8am to 8pm! 1 - Bradenton • 4647 Manatee Ave W • (941) 745-5999 2 - Lakewood Ranch • 9908 S.R. 64 E • (941) 747-8600 www.SarasotaUrgentCare.com 3 - Sarasota • 6272 Lake Osprey Dr • (941) 907-2800

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EAST COUNTY Observer

YourObserver.com

fine dining

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

by Josh Siegel | Staff Writer

Failure To Thrive

Featuring Author:

Jeff Oliver

Mike, Gianna and Ginger Talerico with Scott and Skyler Rattana

Santa Claus comes to Tara Elementary

Tuesday, December 18, 2012 • 7:00 pm Beatrice Friedman Theater on The Jewish Federation Campus, 582 McIntosh Road Tickets: $10. *Students attend free with valid ID. Presented in partnership with Jewish Book Council & Sarasota Bookstore 1.

An energetic and ultimately poignant literary debut, Failure To Thrive digs deep into the compromises of marriage, the intensity of parenthood and the love that propels a father in the face of his own mortality to raise his son.

Santa Claus made a pre-Christmas appearance Friday, Dec. 7, at Tara Elementary School, for the school’s annual Dinner with Santa event. Students and families enjoyed pizza, pasta and lasagna at this PTOsponsored dinner.

ExclusivE MEdia PartnEr:

The STrengTh oF A PeoPle. The Power oF CommuniTy.

Left: Melissa Volner with her children Delaney, Nathan, Kendall and Alli

941.371.4546 x 119 www.jfedsrq.org/events.aspx 99097

Lifting Jesus and Supporting Each Other

At right: Melia Haddock, first-grader at Tara Elementary, with her father, Jeremy Far right: Lam and Loc Truong

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Try our NEW Krispy Salads!

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

BUSINESSOBSERVER + Certified Collectibles Group adds coins to portfolio The Certified Collectibles Group, one of the leading rare coin-grading firms in the country, is expanding its presence into the comic book industry. The firm, which operates Certified Guaranty Corp., an independent and impartial third-party comic-books grading service, acquired Classics Incorporated, a Dallas-based comic book restoration removal and pressing company, according to a release. Terms of the deal weren’t released. Classics Incorporated President Matt Nelson and the majority of his staff will relocate to Sarasota by early next year, the release states. The firm introduced pressing-and-restoration removal for comics in 2001. “We are pleased to bring Matt and his employees into the CCG family,” Certified Collectibles CEO Steven Eichenbaum said in a release. “Matt brings another level of expertise to our already stellar team. From an organizational standpoint, this is a great fit, offering our customers additional services and an easy submission process all under one roof.” In addition to Certified Guaranty Corp., Certified Collectibles Group is the umbrella organization over Numismatic Guaranty Corp. of America, a grading service in rare coins; Numismatic Conservation Service, a coin conservation service; and Paper Money Guaranty, a currency certification service.

+ Lee Wetherington Homes re-launches custom-lot division Lee Wetherington Homes, a homebuilder affected by the recession, has relaunched a custom-lot division. The firm, with $10.5 million in 2011 sales, recently sold four custom lots to homebuyers, according to a release. Three of those lots were in Panther Ridge, in east Manatee County, and a fourth lot was on Siesta Key. The homes are planned at more than 3,000 square feet and will be completed sometime next year, the company says. Peter Mason, vice president of sales and marketing, says the custom home interest is in lockstep with the local realestate market recovery. “In the downturn we stopped marketing to this segment,” Mason said in the release, “but with the market heating up,

we’ve been inundated with requests for custom homes on buyers’ lots.” The 14-employee company, in addition to the division re-launch, also rehired former executive Steve Nelson. As the director of architecture, Nelson will help lead the custom homes unit. He worked for the company from 20002008, and was a key executive behind Wetherington Signature homes. Lee Wetherington Homes builds in Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota and Venice.

+ Nutter Custom Construction breaks ground in the Lake Club Nutter Custom Construction recently broke ground on its first new home model in The Lake Club, a private gated community off of University Parkway, in Lakewood Ranch. In a press release, the builder said the 3,586-square-foot model home, called the Winward, will have three bedrooms and four bathrooms and a British West Indies theme. Construction is expected to be completed by late February 2013. “We are excited to enter the Lakewood Ranch market with this spectacular home,” said T.J. Nutter, president and CEO of Nutter Custom Construction. “The Lake Club model will be a great opportunity for our quickly growing company to showcase what we do best — create stunning homes at a great value with stellar client service.” Nutter Custom Construction is also currently building in Harbor Acres, Venice and Bradenton.

+ Medallion Home announces Realtor Rewards winner

Out of more than 100 Realtors who registered, Medallion Home announced the winner of its latest Realtor Reward campaign. Pam Edgington of Prudential Florida Realty, in Bradenton, earned the Exclusive Package at the Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. Edgington received the award at Medallion’s recent Realtor event, “A Night in Venice.” The campaign was designed to give incentive for Realtors to visit Medallion Home model centers. “We are delighted to have Realtors come out to show clients all that Medallion has to offer, and in return we want to find unique ways to give back to them,” said Gregg Glasser, Medallion Home’s director of sales.

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Shopping Extravaganza Annual Holiday

Last-minute shopping got you down? Avoid the crowds, and come to Horizon Bay Sarasota for holiday shopping at your leisure! Local vendors will offer a wide variety of unique gifts, with 10 percent of proceeds benefiting the Senior Friendship Center of Sarasota. While you’re here, enjoy a fabulous holiday buffet lunch, compliments of our chef. In a hurry? We’ll box it up, so you can take it on the go. Make plans now to be here!

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DECEMBER 23, 2012 – JANUARY 5, 2013 Free musical events, including recitals, master classes and rehearsals with Toby & Itzhak Perlman, faculty & students. USF Sarasota-Manatee campus Visit www.PMPSuncoast.org for updated schedule and latest information. Memberships & Sponsorships still available!

Thursday, December 20 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Complimentary admission and holiday lunch buffet For reservations, call 1-888-691-7694 by December 17.

Celebration Concert

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EAST COUNTY Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

real estate | transactions

by Adam Hughes | Research Editor

Your Granite, Marble and Quartz Specialists

Serving the West Coast of Florida for 40 yrs.

99027

Residential and CommeRCial

Josh Siegel

This home in Lake Club, which has five bedrooms, four baths, two half-baths, a pool and 6,068 square feet of living area, sold for $1.25 million.

1451 Global Ct. Sarasota, FL 34240

941-351-7331 • www.thwstone.com

Five-bedroom Lake Club home sells for $1.25 million

NEW! Weekend Membership FAMILY $175/Mo. • SINGLE $150/Mo.

The following residential real-estate transactions took place between Nov. 26 and Nov. 30. A home in Lake Club tops all transactions in this week’s real estate. Brookfield Relocation Inc. sold the home at 16318 Foremast Place to Reuben and Sarah BenArie, of Lakewood Ranch, for $1.25 million. Built in 2009, it has five bedrooms, four baths, two half-baths, a pool and 6,068 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $1,156,300 in 2011.

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Pomello Park

Axay and Calice Kalathia, of Longboat Key, sold their home at 20109 79th Ave. E. to Timothy and Lisa Holler, of Bradenton, for $1,092,800. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, four-and-a-half baths, a pool and 6,111 square feet of living area.

Country Club Village at Lakewood Ranch

www.palmaire.net 5601 Country Club Way, Sarasota Two Miles West of I-75, Exit 213 University Pkwy

98548

Contact Renee Woods ~ Director of Member Services ~ 941-556-0782

John and Beth Bruns, of Webster, N.Y., sold their home at 7815 Derby Court to John Brooks and Katherine Benoit, of Bradenton, for $600,000. Built in 2002, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,674 square feet of living area. Ruth Cummins, trustee, of Bradenton, sold the home at 7625 Silverwood Court to Paul and Sharon Catalano, of E. Amherst, N.Y., for $500,000. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,284 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $385,000 in 2010.

Kenwood Park

John Reinagel, trustee, of Cordova, Tenn., sold the home at 8238 Abringdon Court to Richard and Julianne Schworm, of Bradenton, for $530,000. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,975 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $490,000 in August.

Bella Sole

Kenneth and Brenda Keating, of Bradenton, sold their home at 4305 Fifth Ave. N.E. to Donald and Virginia Seybold, of Bradenton, for $505,000. Built in 2011, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,305 square feet of living area.

River Club South

David and Shana Zamikoff, of Palmetto, sold their home at 9511 Royal Calcutta Place to Richard and Margaret McDonnell, of Bradenton, for $490,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, three-and-ahalf baths, a pool and 3,729 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $677,500 in 2004.

boating made simple

Christmas Concert

Why buy a boat when you can use a fleet of boats?

First Presbyterian Choir Wednesday December 19, 2012 8:00 pm

James and Kathleen Flora, of Bradenton, sold their home at 7172 Whitemarsh Circle to Ronald Ciamaga and Gracia Faiazza, of Grand Island, N.Y., for $340,000. Built in 2002, it has two bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,338 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $414,000 in 2004.

Guest Composer/Conductor ~ Z. Randall Stroope members of the

Tickets:

20 purchased in advance $ 25 at the door

Sarasota Orchestra & Booker Middle VPA youth choir

Fantastic Rates!

For information call

941-955-8119 www.FirstPresSarasota.org

CALL LEE TODAY! 941-306-6712 Hurry offer ends soon!

98265

First Presbyterian Church 2050 Oak Street Sarasota, FL

...Starting at $99/per month

show up... step aboard and enJoY! no Hassles, no Worries, all tHe FUn!

Fisherman’s Wharf, Marker 4 • 509 N. Tamiami Trail, Venice Seafood Shack Marina • 4110 127th St. West, West Bradenton Phillippi Harbor Club • 1780 Phillippi Shores Dr., Sarasota The Boatyard Villages • 1530 Stickney Point Rd., Sarasota

99224

Scan this QR code with your smartphone or I-Pad to go to our website: www.WavesBoatClub.com

11B

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

Greyhawk Landing

R. Terry and Maureen Platt, of Bradenton, sold their home at 12528 Natureview Circle to Richard and Linda Biribauer, of Bradenton, for $417,000. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and 3,828 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $404,200 in 2004.

Country Club East at Lakewood Ranch

Stirling Equity Group LLC sold the home at 14527 Whitemoss Terrace to Edward and June Taylor, of Hamberg, N.Y., for $400,000. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,211 square feet of living area.

Edgewater Village

Ronald and Linda Clark, of Bradenton, sold their home at 6602 Tallmast Circle to Michael and Joan Roche, of Bradenton, for $380,000. Built in 2001, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,652 square feet of living area.

Greenbrook Village

three baths, a pool and 2,924 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $365,000 in 2009. Dominik Teyke, of Sarasota, and Michelle Teyke, of Osprey, sold their home at 14118 Cattle Egret Place to Phillip and Jamie Conway, of Lakewood Ranch, for $300,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,572 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $499,000 in 2006.

YOur PreSeNtS wIll be PreSeNt wheN YOu ShIP wIth uPS! Offering International & National Packaging and Shipping

751 - 6245 | Visit us at the corner of Lakewood Ranch & SR 70

98352

EAST COUNTY Observer

11523 Palmbrush Trail | Located next to Michaelangelos and AAA

Townhouse Residences at University Groves

D.R. Horton Inc. sold the home at 8107 36th St. E. to Warren and Anne Bell, of Sarasota, for $283,500. Built in 2012, it has four bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,566 square feet of living area.

YOuR NeIgHbORHOOD FIsH HOuse There’s nothing quite like it!

Freshest Seafood

Heritage Harbour

Only Local shucked Raw bar

Todd Josephson, trustee, sold the home at 327 River Enclave Court to Jerrell Schimkat, of Fort Pierre, S.D., for $275,000. Built in 2009, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,840 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $269,900 in 2009.

Catherine Carrubba, of University Park, sold her home at 13806 Nighthawk Terrace to Robert Carrubba, of Williamsville, N.Y., for $375,000. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms,

Lunch Served

Friendliest Atmosphere

Monday-saturday

staff and Neighborhood Patrons

Dinner Served

Fun for the Whole Family

Tuesday-sunday

Real Food & Real good Times!

Sunday Hours

Visit our website to read more real-estate transactions.

3pm-8pm

www.YourObserver.com

View our video

TOP BUILDING PERMITS These are the largest East County building permits issued by Manatee County for the week of Nov. 26 through Nov. 30, in order of dollar amounts.

& f i s h m a941-907-0589 rket www.luckypelicanbistro.com

EAST COUNTY Applicant

Mechanical Underpinning Pool Pool Solar Solar Pool Solar Pool Pool Solar Renovations Mechanical Solar Door/Window Mechanical Enclosure Door/Window Door/Window Dock/Boatlift

Sanford Mullet John Dombeck Stanley Wydro Jr. Lloyd Matthews Martin Maag Neldon Jackson John Farrell Jason Cross Jeannie Mendez Kenneth Swan Jeraldine Match Stanley Haidl, trustee Jordon Shifrin David Hair Karyn Hurst Preston Olinger Margaret Lowery James Dierolf Jack Boenau Joseph Bane

Amount

Can you find the lucky pelican?

$114,890 $53,873 $52,500 $42,640 $42,554 $38,700 $36,600 $35,880 $28,995 $27,028 $26,734 $25,000 $24,352 $21,837 $19,960 $19,090 $18,887 $15,000 $13,678 $13,050

6239 Lake Osprey Drive, Lakewood Ranch

Located a mere 30 second drive off I-75 exit 213. Next to the Holiday Inn....in the Lake Osprey Plaza

presents

CirCus sarasota

SAILOR CIRCUs 2012 HolidaySpectacular

Source: Manatee County

POLAR EXPRESS

TAKE A CLOSER LOOK

SHOW TIMES: Dec. 27, 28, 29, 30, 7 pm Dec. 29 & 30, 2 pm

TODAY’S RESEARCH FOR TOMORROW’S OCEANS

{

Mote scientists go the distance for sea turtles — they’ve monitored 35 miles of nesting beaches for more than 30 years!

ALL ABOARD – TICKETS ON SALE NOW! Adults $16, Children $12

(941) 388 4441 | www.mote.org

93693

Visit The Aquarium at

>> Receive a free bag of popcorn when you bring a canned food item for All-Faiths Food Bank

RESERvE TICKETS NOW!

www.sailorcircus.org i (941) 366-0156 Box Office: 2075 Bahia vista St.

98151

Permit

5304 Creekside Trail 2021 67th St. Court E. 15606 Leven Links Place 4720 Claremont Park Drive 308 Blackbird Court 212 141st Court N.E. 15233 Blue Fish Circle 4305 62nd St. E. 6815 46th Terrace E. 8009 Bounty Lane 4037 Pro Am Ave. E. 5455 Golf Pointe Drive 8116 Lone Tree Glen 335 Bow Lane 6514 Butlers Crest Drive 12212 Greenbrier Way 6928 Country Lakes Circle 6422 Shoal Creek St. Circle 5520 Country Lakes Trail 4604 Third Ave. E.

91796

Address

EAST COUNTY Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

TemperatureS

Temps. High Tues., Dec. 4 82 Wed., Dec. 5 78 Thurs., Dec. 6 81 Fri., Dec. 7 82 Sat., Dec. 8 79 Sun., Dec. 9 78 Mon.,Dec. 10 82 Average Gulf water temperature: 70

MOON PHASES

Sunrise/sunset Sunrise Sunset Thurs., Dec. 13 7:12 5:38 Fri., Dec. 14 7:12 5:38 Sat., Dec. 15 7:13 5:38 7:14 5:39 Sun., Dec. 16 Mon., Dec. 17 7:14 5:39 Tues., Dec. 18 7:15 5:40 Wed., Dec. 19 7:15 5:40

RAINFALL Manatee/Sarasota Tues., Dec. 4 0.00 0.00 Wed., Dec. 5 Thurs., Dec. 6 0.00 0.00 Fri., Dec. 7 Sat., Dec. 8 0.00 0.00 Sun., Dec. 9 Mon., Dec. 10 0.62

Dec. 13 New

Dec. 20 First

Dec. 28 Full

Jan. 4 Last

WIND SPEED

Manatee/Sarasota

Tues., Dec. 4

Year-to-date: 2012 2011 44.66 in 40.55 in. Month-to-date: 2012 0.62 in

Weather Photo Contest Winner

Low 59 55 63 60 62 61 61

2011 0.12 in.

7.3

Wed., Dec. 5

5.4

Thurs., Dec. 6

6.2

Fri., Dec. 7

5.5

Sat., Dec. 8

4.1

Sun., Dec. 9

2.2

Mon., Dec. 10

9.0

facebook.com / GetTheBestFromTODAY

Maggie Bechtold submitted this sunrise photo, taken over Lake Uihlein in Lakewood Ranch. PHOTO CONTEST: Win an iPad 2 or Canon EOS T3 camera. Enter your sunset, sunrise or weather-related photos for The Observer’s weather photo contest, sponsored by Cool Today. To enter your photos, visit YourObserver.com, and click on the “Contests” tab in the upper-right corner. Weekly winners will have their photo printed in the paper and will be entered into a drawing for that month. The monthly winner will choose between an iPad 2 or Canon EOS T3 camera.

Get your daily weather conditions at Yourobserver.com

Service Upgrades Electrical Inspections Whole House Surge Protection Generators  Power Conditioners Home Energy Audits  Lighting & Fans

cooltoday.com

(941) 343-8543

O B S E RV E R C RO S S WO R D Edited by Timothy E. Parker

CRYPTOGRAMS 1. E C X H E L C V H X O H H E C V U F Q O F O D L X O F M H R K C H O H R J O H H D V U ACAOXRH QORBOOX XMTH: RKO TOMEODVU KCVJH BKOX ICV EMX OHEMTO DJCA JOMULRI.

2. L S N K G F F B Z F P X U X H X R Z K X D B Z M . S N B Z F M N P P X R D Z L S X F Z C C A N S N R F X U N F N JA N L Z A M , “ X R N N H C Z L X N R J N Z R H X R N N H XL RGB!”

$179 Installed

Whole House Surge Protection Protect Your lnvestment! Must present at time of service. Can’t be combined with others.

99051

12B

AnIMAL FARM by Kathy Islund

ACROSS 1 Voice below soprano 5 “Do ___ others as ...” 9 Desert drifter 14 Shopper’s compilation 18 Bit of live bait 19 Recurrently 20 Licoricelike flavor 21 The “A” in A.D. 22 Largest portion 24 Tuxedo, in slang 26 Circus performer’s support 27 Chicken’s lack? 29 Hockey Hall of Famer Phil 30 Denies access to 32 Thingamajig 34 Clever people 35 Careful examination 39 ___ Bator, Mongolia 40 Grimm story 42 Timeline divisions 43 Many are screened 45 Backwoods folk 47 Successful turn in Battleship 50 Steal from 51 Blend with traffic 52 Hauler’s destination, sometimes 53 Only average 54 Forrest Gump’s friend 56 Muscle twitch, say 57 Contemptible one 59 ___-burly 60 Network test show 62 Jazz great Vaughan 64 Insanity and others, in court 66 Poi roots 68 Type of bear 70 Golden ___ (Mongol army)

71 It improves when 125 Cheese that’s made backwards? you have contacts 74 Tree of the cashew family dOwn 76 Bailiwick 1 Belt-making tool 78 Butchers’ offerings 2 One of the Flagstons, in 79 Itty bits comics 81 Bit of financial 3 Hurried pace planning, for short 4 Volume of reprints 83 Lollapalooza 5 “That turns my 85 Land of stomach!” Opportunity? 6 Indian flatbread 86 Planning to vote 7 Exhausted “no” 8 Burdensome 9 Christening 87 Impudently bold observance 89 “Mentalist” Geller 0 Lennon’s “Woman” 90 Sighs of relief 11 Looked for the 91 Octad plus one mother lode 93 Believer in a 12 Inquires nonintervening 13 Intellectually God penetrating 94 “Good heavens!” 14 Timmy’s dog 95 Fix, at the vet’s 15 Mukluks wearer 16 Agitated fits office 17 Tornado-riding 96 Laugh heartily dog 98 In a loud, tasteless 19 One way to sit on a way horse 100 “Daniel Boone” 23 Bed-frame co-star Ed crosspiece 102 Cassava root 25 Bellows 104 Wine press residue 28 TV control (Abbr.) 31 Sound like a bull 105 Strangler of the 33 Battery terminal Amazon 35 Belgrade resident 108 Kind of wave 36 Baby’s woe 110 Grown-up bug 37 Old-style TV 113 Wall Street down antenna time? 38 Bear and Berra 115 Sight-unseen 40 Fermented purchase soybean cake 118 Like some excuses 41 Swiss high-rise? 44 Sportscaster’s 119 It’s full of holes summary 120 They’re not odd 46 One of an Iraqi 121 Count’s minority counterpart 47 Whinnying yuk 122 Beginning for 48 ___ of Capri “while” 49 Christmas stocking 123 Church recesses stuffers, perhaps 124 Pete Rose’s team, 51 New Zealand natives for most of his 53 Ice cream parlor career offering

55 Beer parties 57 Anklebone 58 “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” group 59 “I ___ declare you ...” (start of a decree) 61 Clothe 63 Sub ___ (in confidence) 65 Supporting 67 Climb up a pole 69 Do more than see, in poker 71 Jane Austen novel 72 “She Loves You” word 73 Shopping bag 75 Jenny of dieting 77 Large wall painting 80 Miss America’s headgear 82 Tea-growing area of the Himalayas 84 Neat 86 Santa ___, Calif. 88 Viral varieties 91 ___ salts (bath water additive) 92 Supports a charity 93 Eye medication dispenser 94 Object of a police hunt 95 Confidential matter 97 Be sick 99 “ ___ la Douce” 100 What the sympathizer lends 101 Titles for ladies 102 Creates 103 Sour cream add-in 105 Capable 106 “Apollo 13” org. 107 Tap trouble 109 Like geriatric patients 111 Egg on 112 Gumbo pod 114 First lady 116 Elected ones 117 “A Nightmare on ___ Street”

CROSSWORD_121312

Thursday, December 13, 2012

The Observer Observer Classifieds ClassifiedsHoliday HolidayEarly EarlyDeadlines DeadlinesforforDec. Dec.20th, 24th, Dec. 27th and Jan. 3rd editions. Dec. 31st 7th editions. Dec. 20th Service Directory deadlines Dec. 12th, 3pm Classified Ads deadline Dec. 12th, 4pm Dec. 27th Service Directory deadlines Dec. 13th, 3pm Classified Ads deadline Dec. 13th, 4pm Jan. 3rd Service Directory deadlines Dec. 14th, 3pm Classified Ads deadline Dec. 14th, 4pm

The Observer Classiﬁed Dept. will CLOSE Dec. 21st at 5pm for the holidays. We will reopen Wednesday, Jan. 2nd at 8:30am 97311

Happy Holidays To You and Yours! Items Under $200 For Sale

Help Wanted

ADVERTISE YOUR MERCHANDISE with the total value of all items $200 or less in this section for FREE! Limit 1 ad per month, 15 words or less. Price must be included next to each item. No commercial advertising. Ad runs 2 consecutive weeks in 1 Observer. (No phone calls please.) (Please provide your name and address) Email ad to: classified@yourobserver.com Online at: www.yourobserver.com Or mail to: The Observer Group P.O. Box 3169 Sarasota, Fl 34230

BEST CHOICE Sales Team is looking for Sales Rep's to work from home. Free training, Free leads, and Free software to trade with. High Commissions Plus Bonuses. Send resume to: Bill@BestChoiceSalesTeam.com

BLINDS: VINYL, off white 72”w x61”, $40; 34”w x36”, $20. 1 year old. 941-462-1175. CENTER, END tables, $50.00. HP Office Jet printer, P4660, $55.00. Canon Pixma 410, $55.00. 941-747-4059. CHRISTMAS TREE: 9/Ft., noble fir, from Lux-Art Silks. Used four times. $115. 941-756-3870 or 941-650-1318. DEWALT 12” double bevel compound Miter Saw on roller table - 2 extra blades, $200. Phone 941-752-3060. GRANDMA’S ANTIQUE 3 Pcs. Bedroom Set. Very good condition, 1920s Vintage, $200. 941-741-9609. SADDLE SHOES: FootJoy DryJoy classic white, brown reptile. New in box. Size 11.5 Medium. $70. 941-360-6671. SMALL WICKER Dog crate. West Bradenton, $50. 941-962-0613. WHITE CHINA Lavs. 19" SR 4”C, 5 @ $25 ea. F78-15ST trailer tire, $50. 813-477-7607. WII CONSOLE, nunchuks and charging unit. All as new, in box. $150. 941-751-9904.

Autos For Sale BUICK REGAL 2001: leather, loaded, 26K miles, excellent condition, 32/MPG. All records, senior owned. $6,000. 941-798-8455.

Boats ChitwoodCharters.com Cruise or Fish Hyatt Sarasota Docks 32’/53’ Yachts - 2hrs./2 months 941-383-5232

General Merchandise

Homes For Rent LUXOR MHP

Landscaping & Lawn Service GENTLEMAN GARDENER. Refine your space. 15 years LW Ranch resident. I’m in your backyard! 941-724-5792.

HOUSE CLEANING SERVICE WEEKLY, BIWEEKLY & MONTHLY RELIABLE, MATURE & EXPERIENCED REFERENCES AVAILABLE ON REQUEST FREE ESTIMATE, CALL CAROL AT 322-8486 RESIDENTIAL/ COMMERCIAL/ Resorts/ Schools/ Churches/ House Checks. We take pleasure in pleasing our customers. 941-756-4570.

Computer Services OWN A MAC/IPHONE/IPAD? MacTutor offers 21 years experience. Unlimited free telephone follow up. (941)812-3887 www.FLMacTutor.com

Health Services

New Aqua Classes at Health Park

Masonry ALL TYPES OF MASONRY Specializing in concrete driveways, pavers, decorative concrete, stone work, patios. Call for free and honest estimates. 941-525-2435

Painting/Wallpapering CARLO DATTILO PAINTING. Licensed & insured. Interior/ Exterior painting including drywall repair and retexturing. Wallpaper installation & removal, pressure washing. Residential & commercial, condos. Honest & reliable. Free estimates. 941-744-1020. 35+ years experience.

Personal Services DO YOU NEED A PERSONAL ASSISTANT? Transportation, Personal Errands/Shopping, Doctor Appts, Housesitting, Social EventsTheater, Dinner etc. Light meal preparation/ housekeeping. Call Ms. Schwabe 941-962-6921.

YOUR PERSONAL BOOKKEEPER, LLC Gail Sunray, Owner

$450/mo-1 bed/bath mobile homes. 55+ community. No Pets. 5811 14th St. W. Bradenton. Sarasota Real Estate Assoc., Inc. Greg Nowak 941-809-6034

Personal & Business Bookkeeping Accounting/ Taxes I come to your home or office.

Out-of-State Property

   

PREMIER CATAWBA Island Condo 2BR/2BA. Lake Erie waterfront. Rarely available. Pool, sandy beach, garage, turnkey. 941-928-4424.

Real Estate Wanted WANTED LUXURY ANNUAL RENTALS For Qualified Waiting Clients Contact - Sarasota Luxury Rentals 941-225-1356 email: info@sarasotaluxuryrentals.com Personalized attention with professional honest advice. 25 Years Experience - References available

Bill Paying & Account Reconciliation Organizing Personal and Business Files Budgets & Financial Reports Federal and State Tax Returns

If you answered YES, then AQUA is for YOU!

941-761-9816

www.HealthParkEast.net

BONDED & INSURED Over 25 yrs. experience Telephone: 941-749-5646 yourbookkeeper@tampabay.rr.com

98530

APPLE I Pod, new with extra headphones $100.00. Weslo treadmill, folds for storage, $100.00. (941)351-1040.

CARPENTER, EXPERIENCED, own tools and trans exterior/interior work, clean cut, own Ins. preferable. Paul @ 941-238-8033.

Cleaning BRAZILIAN CLEANING Service by Maria. Residential/ Commercial. Meticulous Cleaning. Excellent References. Free Estimates. Reliable. Lic./ Ins. 941-400-3342. ELER CLEANING SERVICE. Residential cleaning, 10 years experience. Affordable and reliable. Call for free estimates and references. Alessandra, 941-301-6493.

Home Improvement/ Remodeling STEVE ALLEN FLOOR COVERINGS PROFESSIONAL TILE & MARBLE INSTALLATION

Adult Care Services COMPLETE CARE; non-medical and medical. Errands, homemaking, transportation, medication supervision, meal preparation. Also, medical staff available 24/7. Call 377-4465 for more details or visit our mobile/online website at: eldercaresarasota.com Lic. #30211372. Bonded and Insured. STATE CERTIFIED, 21 years experience in Home Health. Willing to travel for Client. Call Tiffany, 941-328-2769.

Auto Service WE WANT TO BUY YOUR VEHICLE!!! Any Make, Any Model, Any Condition. No Title - No Problem! Bank Lien - No Problem! Paying up to $30,000 for Vehicles. Call AJ now at 813-335-3794 for a Free Quote or 813-531-4298.

Pet Services DOGGY HOTEL. 24 Hour Daycare. Brown Avenue near Bee Ridge and 41 behind Sleep King (new owner). First day FREE. Grooming by Mark. Meet and greet and get a treat. 941-554-4620.

Pools

20 YRS. EXPERIENCE

FULL WEEKLY POOL SERVICE $65 per month. For screened-in pools. Owner operated, reliable, personal service. Save money - call now. Blissful Pools, 941-705 0400.

CALL FOR FREE ESTIMATE 726-1802 LIC/ INS

Pressure Cleaning

SELL IT!

RESIDENTIAL/ COMMERCIAL. Roofs, Window Cleaning, Pool Areas, Driveways, Lanais, etc. When Quality Counts! 941-565-3935.

FIND

Reserved Space LP Reserved Space

in the

955-4888

IT! Classifieds

This week’s Crossword answers

www.yourobserver.com

VISION TREADMILL: top-of-the-line, $800. 941-359-4893.

Merchandise Wanted

SENIOR LOOKING to purchase precious metals, time pieces, coins, jewelry and antiques. Please call Marc, 941-321-0707.

Storage STORAGE FACILITY Boat/ RV/ Trailer. Secure facility, low monthly rentals, Clark Rd area. 941-809-3660, 941-809-3662.

HOUSE CLASSIFIEDS LP # 56733

Reserved Space LP Reserved Space

Go online 24/7 to place your ad in The Observer Classifieds

Business Opportunities

www.yourobserver.com

JAN PRO CLEANING FRANCHISE: $950 Down Required, Financing Available for growth, Includes customers. Earn up to $10,000 Month+ Call 941-907-8141

Ready When You Are Classified Ads … the Way to Sell

2012

This week’s Cryptogram answers

Your source for local Classifieds

LV1530

LOCALLY OWNED and operated since 2004 with three locations, America's Super Pawn will pay you top dollar for your estate jewelry, watches, diamonds, musical instruments, computers, motorcycles, cars and other unwanted items. Call us at 758-PAWN OR...fill our request form on our web and we'll contact you! Walk-ins welcomed, no appointment necessary. www.americassuperpawn.com

1. Consciousness could be defined as those stressful moments between naps: the peaceful hours when you can escape from reality. 2. The boss was livid in a big way. He was yelling at his apprehensive secretary, “I need patience and I need it now!” CROSSWORD_ANS_121312

14B YourObserver.com 14B Classifieds

EAST COUNTY Observer THE EAST COUNTY OBSERV THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012 Thursday, December 13, 2012

www.yourobserver.com

AIR CONDITIONING

ELECTRIC

LANDSCAPING & LAWN

Native Son Landscape Services, Inc. www.nativesonlandscape.com GO GREEN!

ÂŠ h{Â&#x2030; z{Â&#x201E;Â&#x160; wÂ&#x201A; ÂŠ iÂ&#x2039;Â&#x2C6;}{ fÂ&#x2C6;Â&#x2026;Â&#x160;{yÂ&#x160;Â&#x2026;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2030; ÂŠ YÂ&#x2026;Â&#x192;Â&#x192;{Â&#x2C6;y wÂ&#x201A; ]{Â&#x201E;{Â&#x2C6;wÂ&#x160;Â&#x2026;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2030;ÂŠ XÂ&#x2039;yÂ {Â&#x160; jÂ&#x2C6;Â&#x2039;yÂ ÂŠ \Â&#x2039;Â&#x201A;Â&#x201A; i{Â&#x2C6;Â&#x152; y{ [Â&#x201A;{yÂ&#x160;Â&#x2C6; ywÂ&#x201A; YÂ&#x2026;Â&#x201E;Â&#x160;D

Call: 941-315-8984

Yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;- Locally Locally Owned Owned & 3133Years &Operated Operated

Still Only

RDH Services (941) 468-2001

Appliance Repair

FURNITURE REPAIR

s 2EFRIGERATORS s 2ANGES s 7ASHERS $RYERS s /VENS s $ISHWASHERS s 'ARBAGE $ISPOSALS s )CEMAKERS &RIG ONLY s 3TOVES

75 -EL 3TEVERSON s 941-526-6832

97152

PATIO REPAIRS, INC PATIO REPAIRS FurnitureSales Sales &&Repairs Furniture Repairs #USHIONS s 3LINGS s 2E POWDERCOATING #USHIONS s 3LINGS s 5MBRELLAS

941-504-0903

HANDYMAN

96725

941-366-6683

97858

) # # s $/4 &, -/6%23 )- Operator/Owner

941.726.1560

www.chiconthecheap.net chiconthecheap@gmail.com

DOORS

IRRIGATION

PRO Sliding Glass Door Repair

New Zealand Irrigation

â&#x20AC;&#x153;FIX IT - DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T REPLACEâ&#x20AC;?

Dave McCarthy

RedeďŹ ning Interior Design

359-1904 We sell boxes!

Sprinkler System Maintenance & Repair

ELECTRIC

U.S. DOT No. 1915800

(941) 227-7555

Prices & options are on our website. David Payne, Owner.

www.NewZealandIrrigation.com

97069

96247

YOUR DOORS WILL SLIDE LIKE NEW

WorkS for you!

General Contractor Specializing in Kitchen & Bath Remodeling

>Ĺ?Ä?Ä&#x17E;ĹśĆ?Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x161; Ä&#x201A;ĹśÄ&#x161; /ĹśĆ?ĆľĆ&#x152;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x161;Í&#x2014; ^ĎĎŽĎŹĎŹĎŹĎľĎ°ĎŽ

Lighthouse Renovations www.lightreno.com

97318

PAINTING

97897

97151

941-727-0272

Call 955-4888 to reserve your space.

Free at home consultation National Brands, Competitive Pricing Limited Lifetime Warranty Seasonal Discounts

NO Job Too Small

Fully Licensed and Insured

The Service DirecTory

KITCHEN/BATH REMODELING

ZÄ&#x17E;Ć?Ĺ?Ä&#x161;Ä&#x17E;ĹśĆ&#x;Ä&#x201A;ĹŻ ĹŻÄ&#x17E;Ä?Ć&#x161;Ć&#x152;Ĺ?Ä?Ä&#x201A;ĹŻ ^Ć&#x2030;Ä&#x17E;Ä?Ĺ?Ä&#x201A;ĹŻĹ?Ć?Ć&#x161;

Phone (941) 704-4278 Fax (941) 538-3781 dmccarthy114@hotmail.com

97847

98639

In-Home Consultation & Do-It-Yourself Plan

Servicing the Sarasota area since 1999

LOCAL - LONG DISTANCE FREE ESTIMATES

Beautiful Interior Design on a Budget

100

Michael Koch Concrete, Inc.

ĎĎŹĎŹĐš Ć?Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x;Ć?Ä¨Ä&#x201A;Ä?Ć&#x;Ĺ˝Ĺś Ĺ?ĆľÄ&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x201A;ĹśĆ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x161;

98653

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Will move anything from a couch to a householdâ&#x20AC;?

INTERIOR DESIGN

www.mr-mover.com

Dave McCarthy

Or visit us at: VeteranAC.com

CONCRETE

Visit us online for your moving checklist & helpful tips!

MO V I N G

96251

96238

Service with Integrity, Respect & Honor

Call: 941-315-8984

Pegâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Peg s EZ EZ Computer Computer Instruction Instruction

www.proslidingglassdoorrepair.com

boxes

ALL OFFERS MUST BE PRESENTED AT TIME OF ORDERING

Call NOW For Your FREE GUARANTEED Price Quote!

Facebook / Craigslist Windows 7, Vista, XP Email / Internet / Skype Word Processing Antivirus / Antispyware Much More! Call Today

Call Mark 941-928-2263

10% Off

Ask About

10 FREE Senior Citizen Discounts! use of 4 FREE wardrobe w/ Any Move

License# CAC1816468

Free Estimates

(941) 706-5569

Apartment, Home & OfďŹ ce Moving & STORAGE

BOXES

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Easier Than You Think!

Licensed & Insured

FLAT MONTHLY RATE PRICING

ALL OFFERS MUST BE PRESENTED AT TIME OF ORDERING

Learn Computer Basics

Reasonable Prices

LAWN SERVICE

Mr. Mover

Friendly, Expert Computer Repairs

918-8587

MOW IT ALL

Clean Professional Reliable Affordable

MOVERS

Services are listed on our website www.ManateeHandyman.com

!LSO ,AYING 3TONE

Mr.

OF G ALL SERVIN OUNTY FOR OTA C SARAS

(941) 227-7555

Driveways s 3IDEWALKS

(941) 315-0896

R O8VYE EARS

29 Years Experience - Insured

â&#x20AC;&#x153;No Job Too Smallâ&#x20AC;?

Many Local References

LAWN CARE

Classified Ads Bring Results 941-955-4888 Manatee Handyman

941-735-3362

Free rt Expetation ul Cons

/54$//2 &52.)452% %80%243 s 777 0!4)/2%0!)23 .%4

COMPUTER

Work at Your Own Speed Affordably Priced New Computer Setups Software & Printer Install New Purchase Consults Working with Photos

Lawn & Landscape Repair #OMPLETE -AKE /VER s -AINTENANCE s )RRIGATION 4REE 3HRUB 4RIMMING s ,ANDSCAPE ,IGHTING #LEAN 5PS s -ULCH s 2OCK

97902

96729

Sod & Landscaping

Experienced, hands-on accountant is available to help with your small business/personal accounting needs. A few hours per month may be all you need to keep your books straight. Comfortable with any accounting software. Hourly or monthly fee.

APPLIANCE REPAIR

MOST REPAIRS Plus Parts $ at Retail

PLUGS +

NEED A PART-TIME CONTROLLER?

96890

SERVICE CALLS

365-2407

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99296

941-565-3431 941-580-1331

License # EC13001486

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96236 38056

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Call (941) 747-1968 FINANCIAL SERVICES

96724

Quick Cool LLC

97169

LIC#CAC046192

Or visit us at: VeteranAC.com

96237

Service with Integrity, Respect & Honor

97217

Residential & Commercial

97312

License# CAC1816468

s ,ANDSCAPE $ESIGN 2ENOVATION )NSTALLATION s 8ERISCAPE %XPERTS .ATIVE 0LANTS s/RGANIC 'ARDENING &ERTILIZING s 3OD 2EPAIR s $RAINAGE 3OLUTIONS s 3EASONAL #LEAN 5P 2EMULCH s .EW 0AVERS 0AVER 2EPAIR

CGC1507388 Lawrence Barnett (941)526-7750

LAKEWOOD RANCH PAINTING

ÂŠ Interior & Exterior Painting & Wallcovering ÂŠ Full Service Interior Design & Color Selection Assistance ÂŠ Over 30 Years Experience Need a Referral? Matt Arndt, Owner Call today for Ask a Neighbor!

941-726-7077

a FREE estimate!

REALTORS

BUG BUSTERS

Do It Yourself Pest Control

96922 97153

PLUMBING Call Now Before Storms Hit Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Get Caught Offguard $25 OFF with mention s &ULL PLUMBING SERVICES of this ad s 3EPTIC TANK PUMPING LIC# CFC1427462

97063

RELIABLE - CLEAN - PROFESSIONAL - EXPERIENCED

www.TheSarasotaPlumber.com

24 hours

â&#x20AC;&#x153; Helping you make the right move.â&#x20AC;?

Advertise your business in The Observer Service Directory. Call 941-955-4888 to advertise

Lora Carpenter, Realtor

Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate 11215 State Road 70 #105 Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202

27 Years Experience

We gladly accept all major credit/debit cards.

SCREENING

941-713-0432 Direct 941-739-6777 OfďŹ ce

POOLS

Ask us about Superscreen Rescreening pool cages, lanais, etc.

www.ďŹ&#x201A;oridamoves.com/lora.carpenter

Gas or Electric Pool Heater & Heat Pump Repair and Maintenance

Keith Edward Haas Luxury Specialist

Elite Realty Services

Call Now for a Free Estimate (941) 962-0395

RealtorÂŽ

I represent all new home builders. 98659

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Or visit us at: VeteranAC.com POWER WASHING

Team Up Today With Classifieds 941-955-4888

ManasotaScreen

15% Discount

Residential & Commercial

96897

Renovations

Wash Lic./Ins. rise Wisnudreow n u Cleanin ing S and Pres g

Res./Com.

Environmentally Friendly

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Pool Cages - Lanais - Patios

Call Today for a FREE Estimate

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(941) 356-0309

For Senior Citizens

Licensed and Insured

96918

HOLIDAY SPECIAL

Â&#x2039; )LZ[ 7YPJL VU 7HST ;YPTTPUN Call Bob Â&#x2039; :[VYT 7YLWHYH[PVU /H\SPUN 4\SJOPUN Â&#x2039; 3HUKZJHWL +LZPNU 0UZ[HSSH[PVU 780-2267 Â&#x2039; 4VU[OS` :OY\I 7Y\UPUN Licensed Landscape ANY OUTDOOR PROJECT & Insured

All Tree Work

WINDOWS

Rescreening Specialist

941-737-4483

NATIVE CUT TREE SERVICE

RESCREENING & REPAIRS

WE CLEAN ALL TYPES OF ROOFS

Pressure Washing & Soft Washing

96730

TREES

8319 Market Street, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 :]ddÂ&#x2018;Ă&#x203A;Â&#x2020;Â ~Â¤Â Â&#x2021;Â Â¤Â&#x2026; Â&#x201E;Ă&#x203A;Ă?Ă&#x203A;F^x[]Â&#x2018;Ă&#x203A;Â&#x2020;Â ~Â¤Â&#x2020;Â&#x2021;Â&#x201E;Â¤ Â&#x2021;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2021;p~Â&#x201A;~Ă&#x203A;Ă?Ă&#x203A;=YpÂ&#x2018;Ă&#x203A;Â&#x2020;Â ~Â¤Â&#x2020;Â&#x2021;Â&#x201E;Â¤ Â&#x2026;Â&#x2020;Â&#x201A;

Call: 941-315-8984

96404

941-400-4864

GET YOUR NAME OUT THERE!

www.manasotascreen.com

10%

Free Estimates

OFF + Additional Prices Include:

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97149

ALL PLUMBING REPAIR & DRAIN CLEANING

Call or text me at 941-932-0189

Call 924-9000 *A/H 730-0130

www.realtor.com/sarasota/bethbarnett

97147

PRO-PLUMBING WORKS, LLC. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Where the Customer Comes Firstâ&#x20AC;?

8729 St. Rd. 70 East Bradenton, FL 34202

For listing your house, call BETH for proven results!!

96277

Independently Owned and Operated Franchise

Sell your service with success. Advertise in The Observersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Service Directory

Call 955-4888 for more information...

www.yourobserver.com

PelicanPress sIesTA KeY

LV2879

97319

Shaggys Hair Studio

97070

Cindy Wells 941-322-6381 941-928-2168

Respect & Honor

96403

BETH BARNETT â&#x20AC;&#x153;East Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s #1 Agent!â&#x20AC;?

announces

Call for appointment

Service with Integrity,

Currently renting at

Lakewood Ranch

COUNTRY CANINE MAKEOVERS DOG GROOMING

License# CAC1816468

SCARLET GOELZ

RitaFerrellLasky@gmail.com

PET SERVICES

Chuck Burns Owner

SALONS

941-780-8514

941-780-3579

TH 3T 7 "RADENTON s .EXT TO ,OWES s 746-6654

CFC1428540

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Harold Lasky

Rita Ferrell

Canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t buy in stores

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Your Local Roofer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll Cover Youâ&#x20AC;?

2ESIDENTIAL #OMMERCIAL 2OOlNG s 3PECIALIZING IN 2OOF 2EPAIRS Shingle/Metal/Tile/ModiďŹ ed 941-748-7400

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Team That Sellsâ&#x20AC;?

Only Professional Products

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Bisson RooďŹ ng Inc.

Luxury Home Professionals Over 16 Years in Lakewood Ranch Area

WE DO

941-755-6300

ROOFING

Ferrell-Lasky Team

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Let Your Home Go To The Bugs Spending Money + Not Knowing What Works

Sarasota.MrRooter.com

YourObserver.com

97322

PEST CONTROL

Located off of SR 70 E. 1 mile North on Verna Bethany Rd. 7804 Barr Road Myakka City, FL 34251

15B Classifieds 15B

www.yourobserver.com

97132

THE EAST COUNTY EAST COUNTY Observer OBSERVER THURSDAY, Thursday, DECEMBER December13, 13,2012 2012

16B

EAST COUNTY Observer

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

Elite Realty 941.907.2000 • www.PruEliteRealty.com

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A Wealth of Experience.

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No One Knows the Community Better. Prudential is your top choice when you are ready to buy or sell a home. Our award-winning local Realtors have the experience and expertise to guide you, and they consistently deliver premier service that caters to every client’s unique needs. Locally owned and internationally renowned, Prudential is proud to contribute to the natural beauty, cultural events and extraordinary people that make this community a great place to live. Call us today and let us match you with the house in the area that perfectly suits your definition of home.

$429,000 Lakewood Ranch Country Club Village Upgraded 3/2; Waterfall pool +nature preserve! A3967887 Katie Klomp 941.400.4826 !

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$325,000 Miramar Links @Lakewood Ranch Country Club Gated, 4BR/3.5BA, 2700SF, Furnished w/Golf & Lake Views. A3957448 Gloria Kaminsky 941.524.5973 h Ranc wood Lake

Personalized Service. Trusted Agents

941-907.2000 • www.PruEliteRealty.com il of Tra West ommunity C ated

$305,000 Central Park Gated, Maint. Free, 3/2 + den,m Lakefront, $50K in upgrades! A3962287 Jerry Richter 941.224.1350 merfi Sum

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$199,900 Summerfield Village 3/2 in a great community, Nr parks/shopping + A-rated schools. A3968821 Kim Young 941.302.9820

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$640,000 Oyster Bay Landings Oversized private homesites, Non Waterfront & Waterfront sites. A3937878 Rita Ferrell Lasky 941.780.7579 $274,000 Lakewood Ranch 3/2 Open floor plan, Custom features + salt water pool! A3966936 Judy Bastic 941.465.6271

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$1,999,900 Country Club Village Custom details, finishes & furnishings in this RARE 5BR/5.5BA estate home. A3958210 Pat McMillan 941.544.4538 ced Redu ta! Just t Saraso s in Ea

$188,000 Golf Pointe Villa Updated 3/2+ den & 2car garage, Over 2000 sq.ft! Reduced. A3960989 Pam Baker 941.544.7943 ees! DD f

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$229,900 Cedar Brook 3BR on 1+ acre lot, Nr I-75 & I-275, Walk to schools/golf. A3969063 Susan Schwartz 941.807.7161

$740,000 Lakewood Ranch Country Club WOW! Complete privacy + water view AND 5BR + den & office & bonus rooms! A3963767 Harold Lasky 941.780.8514

Rentals $7,500 Mo./Annual Lakewood Ranch Country Club 5BR/4.5BA Turnkey, Gourmet kitchen, marble floors + golf & lake views. A3968676 Claudia Schwab 941.962.9453 $3,800 Mo./Seasonal River Strand @ Heritage Harbour Turnkey 3BR/2BA, Pool/ spa; Golf, fitness, tennis & walking trails. A3967458 Jerry Richter 941.224.1350 Palmer Ranch & Stoneybrook Golf & Country Club Short term & long term rentals available in all sections. Golfing, Clubhouse, pools & just minutes to Siesta beaches! Vicky Reilly 941.266.5962

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$724,900 Serenoa Gorgeous 4385SF, 4BR/3.5BA + 2 offices, 2 Entertainment Rooms, Salt pool & more! A3967667 Cher Pujol 941.504.5902 !

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$138,900 Willowbrook Townhome Furnished 2BR/2.5BA, Lake & Preserve views + No CDD fees! A3961893 Kirby Wood 941.961.4724

Foreclosures $289,900 Waterlefe Golf & River Club Further Reduced! Gated, Large Maintenance free 3/3 home w/private pool overlooking canal. Community Amenities & more! M5831304 $59,900 Bradenton Investors are welcome! 4BR/2BA home. Needs some work, Lrg fenced lot, 2 detached rooms in the back for storage. M5833526

$420,000 Greyhawk Landing Gorgeous 4/3 salt pool home, Gated comm. w/Resort amenities. A3967558 Claudia Schwab 941.962.9453

$279,000 Mill Creek 2600SF+ home, 1+ acre lakefront lot. Master Retreat w/Fireplace. M5832483 Sara LaPlante 941.685.4566

$54,900 Bradenton 2BR/1BA Florida Country Cottage, fenced yard, close to everything. M5833314 77974

Offices in Sarasota & Lakewood Ranch

~ Property Sales & Property Management

© 2012 BRER Affiliates Inc. An independently owned and operated broker member of BRER Affiliates Inc. Prudential, the Prudential logo and the Rock symbol are registered service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc. and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. Used under license with no other affiliation with Prudential. Equal Housing Opportunity.