Spirit of America

Spirit of America

The ties that bind us

SERVICE  TRADITION  TRIUMPH HOMEGROWN  UNIQUE FAMILIES Look inside for a calendar of Fourth of July events. PAGES 20-22

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SPIRIT OF AMERICA

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How blessed we are to live in this great nation, especially on the beautiful Gulf Coast of Florida.

While going about our days, we are constantly reminded of the ties that bind us. Whether it is through family bonds, our traditions or service to our communities; experiencing triumphs over tragedy together; or rescuing an animal that ends up actually rescuing us; we are all connected.

The spirit of America is unique and is shown in photos and features of various Sarasota and Manatee County residents on the following pages by Yaryna Klimchak, Mallory Gnaegy,

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Nick Friedman, Robin Hartill and Pam Eubanks. Our reporters were able to capture instances that represent these themes: service, tradition, homegrown, unique families and triumph.

We hope these photos and stories enhance your holiday weekend and bolster your pride, not only as an American, but also as a resident of the Sarasota/Manatee region.

As you celebrate this Fourth of July, be mindful of all those things that have made America great. — Stephanie Hannum, managing editor of Diversions

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Photos by Yaryna Klimchak

Longboat Key Flotilla 82 includes men and women ranging in age from 17 to 89 who share the common mission of making the waters safer.

Service

The 45 members of Longboat Key Flotilla 82 vary in age and backgrounds but share a love of boating and a desire to serve.

Bud Blumenthal, 89, remembers the stormy night in the summer of 1943, when he was serving in the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II. He was aboard a 65-foot sailboat that made sonar contact with a submarine.

Those on board the sailboat notified their operations base in Norfolk, Va. Two bombers from the operations base were sent out a day-and-a-half later, and they split the submarine in half. Those aboard the sailboat were taken to shore; Naval officers swore them to secrecy about the event. They later learned that the submarine held the Enigma machine, a secret code maker for the German Navy. Seizure of the machine helped put an end to German submarine activity.

Thomas Wishart and Matthew Leavitt are 17 and still in high school. They hope to one day serve, possibly in the Coast Guard.

Blumenthal, Wishart and Leavitt are all part of the same group of 45 members that gathers one Wednesday a month at Mote Marine Laboratory’s Keating Marine Education Center.

The group’s members range in age from 17 to 89.

They are men and women. There are veterans of the Coast Guard and other military branches.

There are non-veterans, too.

Their common threads are tropical blue.

That’s the color of the undress uniform members of Longboat Key Flotilla 82 of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary wear to their meetings each month.

The flotilla formed in 1977, but these men and women are part of a tradition that dates back to 1939, when Congress established the Coast Guard Reserve for the purpose of providing boats and support to the Coast Guard in times of need.

Membership soared to 50,000, with new members doing everything from firefighting to anti-submarine operations.

Congress changed the Coast Guard Reserve’s name to the Coast Guard Auxiliary in 1942 and

Alfred S. Lapides served in the Navy submarine service aboard the USS Brill from February 1946 to December 1947, when he was 17.

Service statS The U.S. Coast Guard estimates the auxiliary saves one life, assists 28 people, conducts more than 50 safety patrols, performs at least 250 vessel safety checks, educates 270 people on boating safety and participates in more than 100 Coast Guard support missions — every single day.

formed a formal Coast Guard Reserve.

Today, more than 30,000 volunteers serve in the auxiliary; their primary mission is recreational boating safety. Members assist with safety and security patrols, search and rescue, mass casualties and disaster, pollution response and patrol, Homeland Security, recreational-boating safety, commercial fishing and vessel exams and in recruitment for all Coast Guard service. The auxiliary has all Coast Guard powers outside of law enforcement and military powers.

Flotilla 82 Commander Dave Hagberg described the increasingly important role of the auxiliary.

“The Coast Guard itself is so busy with drug interdictions and people coming from Haiti and Cuba,” he said. “The Coast Guard is very shortmanned … Congress has cut the budget to the bone.”

Members wear the same uniforms as activeduty Coast Guard members and share the Coast Guard motto: Semper paratus — or “always ready.”

For the members of Flotilla 82, the reasons for volunteering are as varied as the members themselves.

“After working 60-odd years, I wanted something exciting to do, and I had a boat,” said Flotilla Staff Officer-Operations Ronald Krum, 80, who served in the U.S. Army. “There are too many people out on the water causing deaths.”

“I joined knowing they did a lot of good things in the community,” said Leavitt, who attends Sarasota Military Academy.

“It was a meaningful public-service opportunity available to an old guy,” said Flotilla Staff OfficerSecretary Larry Newman, 58.

“If something happens, we’re trained to be able to help out. If there’s a serious situation, we’re able to respond,” said John Raleigh, Flotilla Staff Officer-Marine Training.

“We all love the water,” said Flotilla Vice Commander Saul Landesberg, “and want it to be safer.”

— Robin Hartill

“We all love the water and want it to be safer.”

— Saul Landesberg, Flotilla 82 vice commander

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Photo by Yaryna Klimchak

Linda Craig, center, and Hilda Murphy, right, help Sherri Guimond, left, pack a box for Guimond’s husband, Matt, who is deployed in the Middle East. Guimond says packing the boxes for troops is therapeutic. “It’s therapy for me, not just to send my husband boxes, but perfect strangers,” she says. Bill Petryka of the Lakewood Ranch Men’s Club built the shelves surrounding the volunteers at the Manasota Operation Troop Support office and packing area. “It’s not a charity,” Petryka says. “A charity is something you give and expect nothing in return. This we give because we can never pay back the troops for what they are doing for us.”

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Sarasota County firefighter Josh Cady grills tilapia to make fish tacos for the firefighters at Station 1, on Fourth Street. Firefighters take turns cooking meals for one another, based on who is out on call. Cady estimates he cooks dinner once every three shifts. Firefighters cooking dinner usually try to have the meal prepared by 5 p.m., but due to the nature of the job, many of the men are still responding to calls when dinner is ready. Typically, Cady says he tries to cook meals that can be reheated or eaten later, and that the cooks always eat last.

Photos by Nick Friedman

The Rev. John Walker, right, jokes with Deputy Gabriel Eckert before a morning ride-along.

Walker has served as chaplain for the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office for the past five years. As chaplain, he fulfills the various pastoral needs within the Sheriff’s Office, including weddings, funerals, baptisms and hospital visits. He also serves as someone to whom deputies can talk in times of distress. “The job definitely comes with its pros and cons,” says Walker. “We’ve had some deputies involved in shootings, and I was there for them to talk to. Luckily, I’ve never had to go with the sheriff to an officer’s house and tell the family that somebody isn’t coming home. I’m grateful for that.”

Walker occasionally accompanies deputies on their patrols, and he says experiences like that help them form closer bonds. “We’re just like an extended family,” he says. “From a pastor’s perspective, it’s a blessing to be able to serve those who serve us.”

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Photo by Nick Friedman

Sarasota County Sheriff’s deputy and K-9 handler Kevin Skau relaxes on a day off next to his K-9, Hiro — a 70-pound Belgian malinois. Skau has owned Hiro for four years, and he says working alongside the K-9 has reinvigorated his passion for law enforcement. The two work side-by-side on in-progress calls, drug searches and demonstrations for the community. Skau says Hiro is an obedient and focused work dog, but is exuberant and friendly off the job. “Hiro roughly translated from Japanese means ‘wide open,’ which more or less describes his personality,” says Skau with a laugh.

“He’s full-throttle all the time.” Skau says he and Hiro share a strong bond, which was apparent from the start. “I was lucky enough to go with my lieutenant to pick him out,” says Skau. “I was picking between him and a German shepherd, so I played fetch with both of them. Hiro came running right back to me and jumped up into my arms. I knew that was the dog for me.”

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Photo by Yaryna Klimchak

Herman “Buddy” W. Herring Jr. and his wife, Patricia Greene, met at the University of Mississippi, where Greene was studying dentistry and Herring was teaching dentistry. He mustered up the courage to ask her out on a date in June 1980, and, in October of that same year, they were married. In 1983, the couple joined the Army, for which they served as clinical dentists in the U.S. Army Dental Corps. Greene treated soldiers and their dependents, and Herring treated adults. They enjoyed the benefits and loved the travel. They also enjoyed providing their patients with the highest level of care without patients having to worry about cost. “If a patient needs a crown, you do a crown,” Greene said. “You don’t have to worry about cost, and you are able to give the patient a higher level of treatment.” In Herring’s 30-year career and in Greene’s 23-year career, neither ever had a single patient contract an infection. The couple moved in 2004 to Longboat Key after both retired, because Sarasota “has a lot of things to offer.”

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Pam Eubanks

Linda Townsend watches her now daughter-in-law, Jenny Townsend, try on her wedding gown one last time before Jenny’s May 26 wedding.

Tradition

Jenny Townsend won’t think twice before donating her wedding gown to charity; its sale is giving hope to cancer patients.

Jenny Townsend said yes to the dress at least 10 times.

After she carefully pulled on her chosen wedding gown one final time before her May wedding ceremony, her now mother-in-law, Linda Townsend, sucked in her breath as Jenny stepped in front of the mirror.

“It’s magnificent,” Linda Townsend said.

It would be Jenny Townsend’s perfect gown, for the perfect day with her perfect man.

Jenny Townsend, community outreach coordinator for Brides Against Breast Cancer, a nonprofit that resells bridal gowns to raise money to benefit cancer patients, also had another reason the gown was perfect.

Proceeds from her dress purchase will help cancer patients, including Linda Townsend, who has been battling leukemia since 1999.

With a bubbly personality and strong background in marketing and new-business development, Jenny Townsend began volunteering for Center for Building Hope in 2010, after meeting Brides Against Breast Cancer Vice President of Business Development Amy Paulishak at a networking event.

She started as an employee with the organization in January 2012.

“It was something new, and I could give back,” Jenny Townsend says.

Center for Building Hope, a local nonprofit that provides support groups, classes, panel discussions with physicians and other programming for cancer patients and their caregivers, acquired Brides Against Breast Cancer in early 2012 as a way for the organization to raise money to expand its programming, among other reasons.

“To know I’m helping to support those programs for (Linda with my dress) — it’s amazing,” Jenny Townsend says. “(Cancer) is a hard

Linda Townsend helps her now daughter-inlaw, Jenny Townsend, with her veil, as Jenny tries on the gown a few days before her May 26 wedding.

About the dress Jenny Townsend wore an Enzioni designer gown that originally sold for about $1,600.

She paid about $800 for the dress. road (for patients) and their caregivers. She still is going through treatments. It’s a roller coaster.

“You can’t go places where people are possibly sick (when you are a cancer patient),” she says. “The center is where she can go and she knows people are health-conscious. She can get out of her house. I feel like it’s a spa over there.”

Jenny Townsend and her groom, David, married May 26, at Historic Spanish Point, in Osprey, before heading out for a 12-night Medi-

terranean cruise and a few days in Spain.

“I knew I was going to marry him from the first date,” Jenny Townsend says, smiling. “He just has this amazing smile and a great personality. He’s really genuine. He thinks I’m crazy when I say that.”

David Townsend proposed Feb. 11, 2012, and Jenny Townsend worked hard to line up vendors and handle other wedding details as quickly as possible. However, finding a dress proved to be easy — and difficult — at the same time.

When it came time to hunt for a wedding gown of her own, Jenny Townsend says she never considered looking anywhere other than at the Brides Against Breast Cancer boutique, in Lakewood Ranch.

But, because Jenny Townsend tours the country and sees bridal trends changing on a regular basis — and because she has access to thousands of gowns at the boutique, where local brides can make appointments to try on dresses — she fell in love with one gown after the other — 10, in total, or more if you ask her mother-in-law.

“But, the dress I have now is perfect,” she says.

Even still, Jenny Townsend says she won’t hold tightly to it. Rather than saving her dress as a keepsake or to pass on to her children, she’ll continue the tradition of giving back.

“It can sit in my closet, or I can donate it back and someone else can wear it,” Jenny Townsend says.

Now, she plans to focus on her post-wedding “I do’s.”

“I’m looking forward to the road with (David) and a lifetime of happiness — that’s what’s in my vows,” Jenny Townsend says.

— Pam Eubanks

“It can sit in my closet, or I can donate it back and someone else can wear it” — Jenny Townsend, on her wedding dress

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Photo by Pam Eubanks

Each year at Braden River Middle School, seventhand eighth-grade students work with art teacher Heidi Enneking to create a patriotic panel honoring military veterans. The concrete panels feature a central mosaic design bordered by 24 to 28 tiles, each paying tribute to a military veteran. Each year, the masterpiece is unveiled during the school’s Veterans Day ceremony. Former art teacher Patricia King started the project, called Wall of Honor, more than a decade ago, after receiving a grant from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County.

Currently, 25 panels are on display along school walls.

Photo by Mallory Gnaegy

Owner of Sarasota Architectural Salvage Jesse White has been salvaging treasures for more than 10 years. He found a trunk at an estate sale with this tattered flag in it. “You can’t just throw a flag away!” he says.

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Photo by Mallory Gnaegy

Kathy Connett has been serving soft-serve ice cream on her Purple Belle ice cream truck for two years, but it’s a tradition that has been around for more than 60.

She’s serving veteran Dr. Robert Long, who was a dentist in the Korean War. “I haven’t been photographed since the Korean War,” he says. “That’s a long time!”

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Photos by Mallory Gnaegy

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Manfred Klatt, top left, works on one of 19 tassels on a camel that the woodcarving volunteers at the Ringling Circus Museum have been creating every Thursday morning since 2009. Each tassel takes nearly 20 hours, and they will likely finish the camel in another three years. To make the camel true-to-form, the group uses a model camel located at Big Cat Habitat. The group of men are continuing a wood-carving, folk-art tradition used as décor on circus cars, animal cages and plenty of other pieces of carefully crafted pageantry. Graham Barkhuff, bottom right, has been carving and painting tiger ornaments every Thursday morning since 1989. These completed Christmas ornaments are sold in the museum gift shop, and people buy them as fast as the men can put them on the shelves. Another volunteer, John Haynie, says he’s made approximately 630 tigers and 1,020 Santa Clauses. “We’re not trying to make money,” Haynie says. “We just try to keep people happy.”

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Photo by Yaryna Klimchak

Sarasota High School alumni football players joke and tease each other as if they were still in high school. Despite being out of high school for more than 40 years for some, the S Club Alumni Letterwinners Association members will work to give back to student athletes in the fall.

The S Club Alumni Letterwinners is an organization comprised of former SHS varsity letterwinners from all sports. They support the efforts of SHS student athletes by mentoring students, attending games and giving scholarships. Pictured: Gary Blake, class of 1980; John Stenglein, class of 1966; Ken Calleja, class of 1971; Nick DeVirgilis, class of 1969; Don Saba, class of 1970; Bruce Saba, class of 1969; John Smith, class of 1969; and Rick Saba, class of 1966.

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10 ft. ceilings, marble floors, olympic pool & spa. $3,950,000

Photo by Pam Eubanks

Out-of-Door Academy’s Emily Greenwood, who graduated June 1, writes a note to a friend during a school yearbook-signing party May 30, at ODA’s Upper School campus. Students received their yearbooks before being turned loose in the quad to enjoy breakfast food, music and time to sign each other’s yearbooks. “It means a lot (to do this tradition), because I’m not going to be with any of these people next year,” says Greenwood, who will attend Boston University.

WESTWAY ESTATE ON NEW PASS $8,900,000 4BR home + 4BR guest house. 210’ frontage with dock.

WATER CLUB II GULFFRONT $1,595,000 Southern exposure, 6th floor, 10’ceilings views of Gulf and City.

MEDITTERANEAN BAYFRONT ESTATE $8,700,000 5BR 10,000 sq. ft. masterpiece. Views plus dock.

BAYFRONT POINT 4BR ESTATE $7,650,000 One private acre+ separate guest house. Boat docks.

OLD FLORIDA CHARM BAYSIDE $2,995,000 4,400 SF home w/ open views, dock & private beach.

L’AMBIENCE GULF FRONT 3BR CONDO $2,750,000 Southern exposure. Elegant designer upgrades.

RITZ CARLTON TOWER RESIDENCE $2,295,000 Southeast corner 10th floor 3,750 SF. Incredible bay views.

SLEEPY LAGOON BAYSIDE ESTATE $2,550,000 Approximately 2 acres, gated drive, tennis, deepwater dock.

HIDEAWAY BAY HOME $1,995,000 Fishing pier, lift & dock on Sailboat water w/ exceptional bay views.

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18

SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, jULY 4, 2013

Brett Wallin represents the fourth generation of fishermen to operate Walt’s Fish Market.

Nick Friedman

HOMEGROWN Tracing his fishing heritage back to his great-grandfather, Claus Wallin, who in 1918 began his fishing career in Sarasota, Brett Wallin hopes to continue his family’s legacy.

Brett Wallin emerges from the kitchen of Walt’s Fish Market on an early June morning, still dripping with tropical-storm rain. He has just returned from tending to his fishing boats, and, despite the bad weather, which is sure to hurt business, he greets staff members with a smile and lighthearted jokes as he opens the market for the day.

“My dad taught me that you have to treat people right, and that nothing worthwhile comes easily,” says Wallin. “He taught me not to take anything for granted. I know if I follow his advice, I’ll be just fine.”

Historical photos of the family and the fish market line the walls of the restaurant, and above the year-old outdoor chickee bar, framed photos of Wallin’s late father, Tom, grandfather, Walter Wallin Sr., and great-grandfather, Claus Wallin, look down over the establishment. As he looks at them, Wallin reflects on the men who founded and nurtured the family business, which he’s operated since 2006.

Thirty-four-year-old Brett Wallin represents the fourth generation of fishermen to operate the Sarasota mainstay, and for as long as he can remember, his life has revolved around fishing — he began learning the trade at the young age of 5, when he and his older brother, Tommy,

Above, from left: Claus Wallin, Walter Wallin Sr. and Tom Wallin would accompany their father to the Siesta Key docks. He spent much of his childhood helping his father sort fish, pull nets and sell his daily catch — he even had his commercial fishing license before he had a driver’s license.

“Growing up, my friends would all be hanging out, and I would be working,” he says. “But, I loved it. I love to fish. I still go fishing when I’m on vacation.”

On a typical day, Wallin can be found in Walt’s, fresh off the fishing boat, sporting waders and rubber boots and chatting with one of his many regulars. He credits his success to the knowledge and work ethic passed down from

his great grandfather who, in 1918, moved to Sarasota from Sweden to join the Ringling Circus as a roustabout.

After marrying into a commercial fishing family, Wallin fell in love with the town and its fishing culture, and he learned to fish the local waters.

He then passed his knowledge on to his son, Walter Wallin Sr., who opened a fish market on Whitaker Bayou, which he eventually expanded to become Walt’s Fish Market after his service in World War II. “I didn’t know my grandpa very well, but I know that he and my great-grandpa shared a passion for hard work, which they passed down to all of us,” says Wallin. “It’s all about work ethic. Without it, we wouldn’t last a week in this business.”

After his father died in 2006, Wallin took over the business, and he hopes to preserve the legacy his family created, as well as a piece of Sarasota’s history.

“It would be a dream to one day have a son or daughter be a part of the business,” says Wallin. “It was so cool for me to work side-byside with my dad and learn from him. I would love to see my kid working right next to me, someday.”

— Nick Friedman

“My dad taught me that you have to treat people right, and that nothing worthwhile comes easily. He taught me not to take anything for granted. I know if I follow his advice, I’ll be just fine.”

— Brett Wallin, Walt’s Fish Market

SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, juLY 4, 2013

nt aura t s e can R own! i x e st M rita in T e B d Vote st Marga e and B

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THURSDAY, jULY 4, 2013

SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, juLY 4, 2013

SARASOTA & MANATEE COUNTIES

COLORFUL CLOTHING! FUN! GOD BLESS AMERICA! LAND OF THE FREE! HOME OF THE BRAVE! LET FREEDOM RING! COOL! ON SOUTH SIESTA KEY

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and fireworks after the game at McKechnie Field, in Bradenton. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., as the Marauders takeCLOTHING! on the Fort Myers Miracle. The Marauders take FRESH PRODUCE UA L A N N the field 6:30 p.m. A fireworks show in honor of N N GOD BLESS AMERICA!atLAND A Independence Day follows the game. Tickets: $6 to OFSTHE HOME OF THE ALEFREE! $8.

1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Call 747-3031.

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MANATEE COUNTY

FRIDAY, JULY 5 SARASOTA

THURSDAY, JULY 4 LONGBOAT KEY  FREEDOM FEST PARADE — This annual Fourth of July parade takes place Wednesday, July 4, on Longboat Key. Come decked in your finest red, white and blue and decorate your bike or wagon and take part in the patriotic parade. Parade lineup begins at 8:30 a.m. on Bay Isles Road; parade takes place at 9 a.m. Festivities will also include games, food and fun.

Free. Call 383-2466.

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MANATEE COUNTY

BEACHHOUSE RESTAURANT FIREWORKS EXTRAVAGANZA — Celebrate the Fourth of July early with this 20th annual party and fireworks show. VIP seating is available. Fireworks begin after dark, weather permitting, at the Beachhouse Restaurant, 200 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Call 779-2222.

ANNA MARIA PRIVATEERS’ INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE — This annual Fourth of July event marches through all three towns on Anna Maria Island. The parade begins at 10 a.m. on Coquina Beach, in Bradenton Beach, and ends at Anna Maria Island Bayfront Park. Festivities will continue with the Privateers’ Independence Day Celebration at noon, at Café on the Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

For more, visit amiprivateers.org.

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2805 Proctor Rd (Proctor Rd & Swift Rd---Riverview Plaza) Mon-Fri 10 am- 6 pm Saturday 10-3 pm SundAy cloSed

Le Grand Bisou Caribbean Boutique

Bringing a Kiss of Global Chic to Siesta Key!

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Christmas in July Historic Downtown Venice Friday & Saturday July 19 & 20 • 10am-5pm

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Register to win over $1000 in gift baskets sales ~ pRizes ~ specials Over 50 stores participating

Turn the page for the boat races calendar 

Mrs. claus will be on hand handing out candy canes.

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Longboat Key or Siesta Key bracelet

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MUSIC ON MAIN — Lakewood Ranch will host its monthly Music on Main concert from 6 to 9 p.m.

July 5, on Lakewood Ranch Main Street.

Enjoy live music, food, beer and wine.

Lawn chairs and pets welcome, no coolers.

 Tropical Fourth of July: A Star-Spangled Celebration — takes place at 6 p.m. July 4, at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 811 S. Palm Ave. Enjoy the beauty of the gardens, and stay for the bayfront fireworks. Cost is $17 for members and $20 for non-members. Free for children ages 11 and younger. Call 366-5731.

Has Never Been So Much Fun!

*choice of side: homemade noodles, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cabbage or beet salad.

MANATEE COUNTY

Gloria Musicae July 4 Concert ‘Celebrating America’ — takes place at 4 p.m. July 4, at First Church, 104 S. Pineapple Ave. Enjoy the patriotic concert, and then stay for dinner downtown to watch the fireworks. Cost is $35. Call 360-7399.

Summer School

Lose an average of 3 inches in 30 mins with our Torc sessions at 7e Fit Spa!

Free Delivery for Siesta Key Residents (minimum order required)

SANDBAR FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR — Celebrate the Fourth of July with fireworks and family fun. VIP seating is available under the open air Sandbar Event Pavilion with only 100 tickets available. Fireworks begin after dark, weather permitting, at the Sandbar Restaurant, 100 Spring Ave., Anna Maria. Call 778-0444.

Coupon must be presented at time of purchase.

Certain restrictions apply to sale merchandise.

One-of-a-kind, collegiate-themed clothing and gifts.Locally designed and printed

Shop online at: www.SiestaKeyUniversity.com

5263 Ocean Blvd. • Siesta Key Village | p: 941.487.8323

Includes FREE Soda

NIK WALLENDA WELCOME HOME PARADE and FESTIVAL PARADE OF BOATS — The event starts at 7 p.m. with a homecoming parade for Nik Wallenda down Main Street, starting at U.S. 301. The parade of boats of will follow. Parade grand marshall is “Deadliest Catch’s” Edgar Hansen. For more information, call 371-8820, Ext. 180

INDEPENDENCE REGATTA — The race will take place from noon to 5 p.m. Thursday, July 4, at the Sarasota Sailing Squadron, 1717 Ken Thompson Parkway, City Island. Call 388-2355.

SALE

•Stuffed Cabbage •Stuffed Pepper •Hungarian Chicken Paprikash •Hungarian Beef •Cutlet (Chicken or Pork) •Hunter Stew •Pierogies 6 pieces w/ cup of soup Add Soup for $2.49

‘Live from Downtown Sarasota, It’s Friday Night!’ — Live street performances and entertainment by Sarasota area organizations take place from 6 to 9 p.m. on Main Street, First Street, Palm Avenue and Whole Foods market area.

SARASOTA

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

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

CITY OF PALMETTO JULY 4 CELEBRATION — The city of Palmetto will feature classic-rock group, The Guess Who, followed by the Village People, during this year’s July 4 celebration at Lamb and Sutton Park, Palmetto.

After the concert, fireworks will light up the sky over the Manatee River. Visit PalmettoCRA.org or call 723-4988.

7

$ 49

(Chicken, Ukrainian Borsch, Mushroom)

Siesta Key Community Fireworks Celebration — The VIP party begins at 5:30 p.m.

July 4 and includes reserved, on-site parking, gourmet picnic dinner, beverages, live entertainment and ideal viewing area for the fireworks display. The fireworks over Siesta Key are blasted off just north of the volleyball courts, so they can be viewed from the Gulf, Intracoastal waterway, and, in particular, South Siesta Beach. The fireworks display begins at 9:15 p.m. Call 349-3800.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3

 PRIMROSE SCHOOL’S RED, WHITE AND BLUE CELEBRATION — Students at Primrose School at Lakewood Ranch Town Center will don red, white and blue attire during the school’s Fourth of July celebration at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 3, at the school, 9127 Town Center Parkway.

The parade will last about five minutes. Parents and families are invited to celebrate patriotic pride with their children. Call 373-6363.

Daily lunch SpecialS for

SIESTA KEY

UA

THING! FUN! RICA! LAND OME OF THE EDOM RING! SIESTA KEY

Polish & Hungarian Style Deli

Bayfront Fireworks Spectacular — takes place at approximately 9 p.m. July 4, at Sarasota Bayfront near Island Park. This is part of the Suncoast Offshore Festival. The event generates proceeds for Suncoast Charities for Children. Donation drop points are located at Island Park, Marina Jack. Call 365-4232.

MANATEE COUNTY

A

VISIT OUR STORE! HAVE FUN! GOD BLESS AMERICA! LAND OF THE FREE! HOME OF THE BRAVE! LET FREEDOM RING! USA! ON SOUTH SIESTA KEY

TUESDAY, JULY 2

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Siesta Key 5212 Ocean Blvd (next to Big Olaf) 941-346-0988 St. Armands Circle 5 South Blvd of the Presidents 941-388-4367 (gems) www.SiestaKeyGems.com

113857

FUN AND COLORFUL CLOTHING

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HOFJULY

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115256

SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

113650

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20

SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, jULY 4, 2013

SARASOTA & MANATEE COUNTIES

COLORFUL CLOTHING! FUN! GOD BLESS AMERICA! LAND OF THE FREE! HOME OF THE BRAVE! LET FREEDOM RING! COOL! ON SOUTH SIESTA KEY

FOURTH OF JU

HOFJULY

FUN AND COLORFUL CLOTHING

and fireworks after the game at McKechnie Field, in Bradenton. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., as the Marauders takeCLOTHING! on the Fort Myers Miracle. The Marauders take FRESH PRODUCE UA L A N N the field 6:30 p.m. A fireworks show in honor of N N GOD BLESS AMERICA!atLAND A Independence Day follows the game. Tickets: $6 to OFSTHE HOME OF THE ALEFREE! $8.

1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Call 747-3031.

S BRAVE! LET FREEDOM RING! I TH !

COOL! ON SOUTH SIESTA KEY K EE

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BRADENTON MARAUDERS BASEBALL GAME AND 4THOFJULY FIREWORKS SHOW — Enjoy Marauders baseball

UA

THING! FUN! RICA! LAND OME OF THE EDOM RING! SIESTA KEY

TUESDAY, JULY 2 MANATEE COUNTY

A

VISIT OUR STORE! HAVE FUN! GOD BLESS AMERICA! LAND OF THE FREE! HOME OF THE BRAVE! LET FREEDOM RING! USA! ON SOUTH SIESTA KEY

N

10-9 DAILY 346-2954 COCONUTS-SK.COM 1215 OLD STICKNEY POINT ROAD 34242

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

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3 MANATEE COUNTY

 PRIMROSE SCHOOL’S RED, WHITE AND BLUE CELEBRATION — Students at Primrose School at Lakewood Ranch Town Center will don red, white and blue attire during the school’s Fourth of July celebration at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 3, at the school, 9127 Town Center Parkway.

The parade will last about five minutes. Parents and families are invited to celebrate patriotic pride with their children. Call 373-6363.

THURSDAY, JULY 4 LONGBOAT KEY  FREEDOM FEST PARADE — This annual Fourth of July parade takes place Wednesday, July 4, on Longboat Key. Come decked in your finest red, white and blue and decorate your bike or wagon and take part in the patriotic parade. Parade lineup begins at 8:30 a.m. on Bay Isles Road; parade takes place at 9 a.m. Festivities will also include games, food and fun.

Free. Call 383-2466.

Fantastic Rates! ...Starting at $99/per month

CALL DEAN AT 941-914-0356 OR LEE AT 941-306-6712 TODAY! 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

115261

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

SALE Home and Garden

10-50% OFF

EVERYTHING July 4-7

MANATEE COUNTY

BEACHHOUSE RESTAURANT FIREWORKS EXTRAVAGANZA — Celebrate the Fourth of July early with this 20th annual party and fireworks show. VIP seating is available. Fireworks begin after dark, weather permitting, at the Beachhouse Restaurant, 200 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Call 779-2222.

ANNA MARIA PRIVATEERS’ INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE — This annual Fourth of July event marches through all three towns on Anna Maria Island. The parade begins at 10 a.m. on Coquina Beach, in Bradenton Beach, and ends at Anna Maria Island Bayfront Park. Festivities will continue with the Privateers’ Independence Day Celebration at noon, at Café on the Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

For more, visit amiprivateers.org.

GeT Your Beach BodY on!

Lose an average of 3 inches in 30 mins with our Torc sessions at 7e Fit Spa!

Discover the Celebrity secret!

We’veingot your back! $99of 3 inches average 30 mins with 2Lose 3 an for

treasurecovehomeandgarden.com

Free Delivery for Siesta Key Residents (minimum order required)

($178 value)

Microderm Back Facials

2 for $99 2 for $99 5 for $35

15 minute Facelift plus acupressure and lymphatic drainage Tightens jowls, pores and fine lines

2/$99 reg. $198

Microdermabrasion No sweating! Lose Torc actual body mass, Facials Sessions not just(water weight! ($178 value) $178 value)

$99 reg. $129

Infrared Sauna Sessions ($175 value)

www.7eFitSpa.com www.7eFitSpa.com Sarasota

The Square at UTC 8441 Honore Ave. University Park, FL 34201 (941)359-4800

113656

South Location 8927 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Fl 34238 (941)966-2004 New Location 4429 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Fl 34231 (941)924-3200

Torc sessionsHave at 7e Fit Spa! a beautiful back for summer!

Torc our Sessions

open until 8pm Weekdays

114103

•Annuals • Plants •Palms • Garden Statuary • Decorative Planters • Fireplaces • Fountains •All Your Landscaping Supplies •Outdoor Kitchens

Microcurrent Facial

Coupon must be presented at time of purchase.

Certain restrictions apply to sale merchandise.

5263 Ocean Blvd. • Siesta K

SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, juLY 4, 2013

ULY CALENDAR

& Polish & Hungarian Style Deli

Daily lunch SpecialS for

SIESTA KEY

FRIDAY, JULY 5 SARASOTA

Deli Meats & European Grocery

Le Grand Bisou Caribbean Boutique

Bringing a Kiss of Global Chic to Siesta Key!

Le Grand Bisou 5129 Ocean Blvd.,Sarasota 941-349-0104

Christmas in July Historic Downtown Venice Friday & Saturday July 19 & 20 • 10am-5pm

CreatedGems

Register to win over $1000 in gift baskets sales ~ pRizes ~ specials Over 50 stores participating

Turn the page for the boat races calendar 

Mrs. claus will be on hand handing out candy canes.

Our downtowners will be wrapping your gifts at the kiosk and the elfs promise there will be sNOW!

Exclusive distributor of spektralyte labcreated diamond simulant

FREE

Longboat Key or Siesta Key bracelet Siesta Key 5212 Ocean Blvd (next to Big Olaf) 941-346-0988 St. Armands Circle 5 South Blvd of the Presidents 941-388-4367 (gems) www.SiestaKeyGems.com

113857

Key Village | p: 941.487.8323

with any purchase

113652

Shop online at: www.SiestaKeyUniversity.com

113650

MUSIC ON MAIN — Lakewood Ranch will host its monthly Music on Main concert from 6 to 9 p.m.

July 5, on Lakewood Ranch Main Street.

Enjoy live music, food, beer and wine.

Lawn chairs and pets welcome, no coolers.

 Tropical Fourth of July: A Star-Spangled Celebration — takes place at 6 p.m. July 4, at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 811 S. Palm Ave. Enjoy the beauty of the gardens, and stay for the bayfront fireworks. Cost is $17 for members and $20 for non-members. Free for children ages 11 and younger. Call 366-5731.

One-of-a-kind, collegiate-themed clothing and gifts.Locally designed and printed

115256

941 - 922 - 1221

2805 Proctor Rd (Proctor Rd & Swift Rd---Riverview Plaza) Mon-Fri 10 am- 6 pm Saturday 10-3 pm SundAy cloSed

MANATEE COUNTY

Gloria Musicae July 4 Concert ‘Celebrating America’ — takes place at 4 p.m. July 4, at First Church, 104 S. Pineapple Ave. Enjoy the patriotic concert, and then stay for dinner downtown to watch the fireworks. Cost is $35. Call 360-7399.

Men’s - Women’s Baby/Kids - Gifts for all

•Goulash Soup $4.99

NIK WALLENDA WELCOME HOME PARADE and FESTIVAL PARADE OF BOATS — The event starts at 7 p.m. with a homecoming parade for Nik Wallenda down Main Street, starting at U.S. 301. The parade of boats of will follow. Parade grand marshall is “Deadliest Catch’s” Edgar Hansen. For more information, call 371-8820, Ext. 180

INDEPENDENCE REGATTA — The race will take place from noon to 5 p.m. Thursday, July 4, at the Sarasota Sailing Squadron, 1717 Ken Thompson Parkway, City Island. Call 388-2355.

Has Never Been So Much Fun!

*choice of side: homemade noodles, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cabbage or beet salad.

‘Live from Downtown Sarasota, It’s Friday Night!’ — Live street performances and entertainment by Sarasota area organizations take place from 6 to 9 p.m. on Main Street, First Street, Palm Avenue and Whole Foods market area.

SARASOTA

Summer School

Includes FREE Soda

(Chicken, Ukrainian Borsch, Mushroom)

Siesta Key Community Fireworks Celebration — The VIP party begins at 5:30 p.m.

July 4 and includes reserved, on-site parking, gourmet picnic dinner, beverages, live entertainment and ideal viewing area for the fireworks display. The fireworks over Siesta Key are blasted off just north of the volleyball courts, so they can be viewed from the Gulf, Intracoastal waterway, and, in particular, South Siesta Beach. The fireworks display begins at 9:15 p.m. Call 349-3800.

SANDBAR FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR — Celebrate the Fourth of July with fireworks and family fun. VIP seating is available under the open air Sandbar Event Pavilion with only 100 tickets available. Fireworks begin after dark, weather permitting, at the Sandbar Restaurant, 100 Spring Ave., Anna Maria. Call 778-0444.

7

$ 49

•Stuffed Cabbage •Stuffed Pepper •Hungarian Chicken Paprikash •Hungarian Beef •Cutlet (Chicken or Pork) •Hunter Stew •Pierogies 6 pieces w/ cup of soup Add Soup for $2.49

Bayfront Fireworks Spectacular — takes place at approximately 9 p.m. July 4, at Sarasota Bayfront near Island Park. This is part of the Suncoast Offshore Festival. The event generates proceeds for Suncoast Charities for Children. Donation drop points are located at Island Park, Marina Jack. Call 365-4232.

CITY OF PALMETTO JULY 4 CELEBRATION — The city of Palmetto will feature classic-rock group, The Guess Who, followed by the Village People, during this year’s July 4 celebration at Lamb and Sutton Park, Palmetto.

After the concert, fireworks will light up the sky over the Manatee River. Visit PalmettoCRA.org or call 723-4988.

21

22

SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, jULY 4, 2013

29th annual Suncoast Super Boat Grand Prix Festival This year’s Suncoast Super Boat Grand Prix Festival runs from June 29 through July 7. Money raised from the various activities benefits Suncoast Charities for Children. Visit SuncoastOffshore.org for more information.

TUESDAY, JULY 2

HYATT REGENCY’S PRE-RACE” PARTY & FASHION SHOW — Kick off the fun of the race weekend at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota with the Pre-Race Party & Fashion Show. The event spans from 6 until 11 p.m. with the Swim City Fashion Show starting at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $15 at the door. Dress is casual. There will be food, beverages, casino-style gaming, raffle, music, and fun.

‘THE FRIENDLIST CATCH’ OUTING FOR THE PHYSICALLY AND MENTALLY CHALLENGED — This by-invitation-only event takes place from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Sarasota Outboard Club, 1604 Ken Thompson Parkway, City Island, Sarasota. Call 371-8820, Ext. 1800.

‘A NAUTICAL NIGHT OF GIVING’ FUNDRAISER — Sarasota Yacht Club hosts “A Nautical Night of Giving” fundraiser from 6 to 10 p.m. Admission is $125 per person.

Cocktail-casual attire is advised (no jeans or shorts).

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3 ‘FLEMING’S FAN FEST’ FOR LOCAL RACE TEAMS — Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar is offering “5-6-7” happy hour menu/ cash bar. The event features live entertainment by Joey Lavallee and The Groove Hounds.

THURSDAY, JULY 4 Bayfront Fireworks Spectacular — Begins at dusk, approximately 9 p.m., at Sarasota Bayfront Park. The event generates proceeds for Suncoast Charities for Children. Donation drop points are located at Island Park, Marina Jack.

FRIDAY, JULY 5

114102

POWERBOATS BY THE BAY — See powerboats on display and enjoy food, vendors at live entertainment.

This event takes place from noon to 5 p.m., at Centennial Park, 10th Street and U.S. 41. See powerboats on display. Free admission; no coolers or

SUNDAY, JULY 7 pets allowed. Enjoy food, vendors, and live entertainment. Call 371-8820, Ext. 1800.

ets are $10 each or three for $20, at participating locations. Call 371-8820, Ext. 1800.

‘BOATS BY THE BAY’ DOWNTOWN BLOCK PARTY — The block party takes place from 5 p.m. to midnight between Orange and Pineapple avenues; Lemon Avenue between First Street and State streets. The event includes vendors, food, race boats on display after the parade and live entertainment. Call 371-8820, Ext. 1800.

POWERBOATS BY THE BAY — See powerboats on display and enjoy food, vendors and live entertainment.

This event takes place from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., at Centennial Park, 10th Street and U.S. 41. Free admission; no coolers or pets allowed. Call 371-8820, Ext. 1800.

SATURDAY, JULY 6

‘MEET & GREET WHO’S IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT’ — Participating race teams will be signing autographs and providing giveaway items to guests.

The meet-and-greet takes place from 10:30 a.m. to noon, at the Hyatt Regency, Sarasota ballroom. Cost is $5 for adults; children 12 and under are free. Call 371-8820, Ext. 1800.

MOTORCYCLE CHARITY RIDE ‘Finz Finds Scenic Bounty Ride’—Registration takes place from 9:30 to 11 a.m., at Jennette Properties Inc., 5899 Whitfield Ave. Last bike out 11 a.m./last bike in 2 p.m. at Powerboats by the Bay. Don’t miss Born to Ride’s custom bike show at Powerboats by the Bay. Raffle tick-

‘MISS SUPER BOAT GRAND PRIX’ BIKINI CONTEST — The bikini contest takes place from 3 to 4:30 p.m., at Centennial Park, 10th Street and U.S. 41. Cash prizes range from $100 to $1,000. To register, email: offshorebikinicontest@gmail.com. Call 3718820, Ext. 1800.

FESTIVAL PARADE OF BOATS — The parade of boats will begin traveling down Main Street, in downtown Sarasota, at 7 p.m. Parade grand marshall is “Deadliest Catch’s” Edgar Hansen. Call 371-8820, Ext. 1800.

ANNUAL SUNCOAST SUPER BOAT GRAND PRIX BOAT RACE — The boat race takes place in two heats at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., on Lido Beach (between New Pass and Big Pass).

Call 371-8820, Ext. 1800.

VIP SUPER BOAT GRAND PRIX RACE VIEWING — The VIP tented area will be located across from the start/finish line on Lido Beach. Tables, chairs and a designated beach-access area along the shoreline will be provided, as well as a parking pass for the day. Each guest will receive a welcome bag and meal ticket for a choice of one entrée, side and beverage provided by Lido Beach Concession.

No coolers or pets allowed inside the tented area, which is open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. You must show the parking lot attendant your ticket to receive a parking pass to be placed on your dashboard to be able to park in the designated area. Tickets are $50, awhich include a parking pass. Call 371-8820, Ext. 1800.

RACE AWARDS CELEBRATION — takes place at 5 p.m., at Hyatt Regency Sarasota. Celebrate with the winning teams. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Call 371-8820, Ext. 1800.

SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, juLY 4, 2013

23

Presenting from Happy 4thFine of Properties July from Longboat’s #1 Sotheby’s Team!

MARK HUBER

Our Home...

America

the

rouNTree laNe Tuscan splendor on Sarasota Bay. Magnificent 4 bedroom, 4 bath Tuscan bay front residence. Located on over 1/2 acre on the tip with 180 degree bay view with protected deep water canal for your yacht. offered at $3,795,000

IslaNder club, 115 Gulf to bay pamoramic views from your 36 foot balconies on both the bay and gulf side of this 3 or 4 bedroom condominum.

Recently renovated, marble floors, custom kitchen, wine room, and wet bar. offered at $1,299,000

Beautiful O beautiful for spacious skies, For amber waves of grain, For purple mountain majesties Above theSpectacular fruitedviews plain!

THe PIerre, PH2 of the gulf, bay, city, golf course, and the Intracoastal Waterway.

14 foot ceilings in this penthouse level, 3 bedroom, 3 America!

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Wood and open floor plan.

God shed grace onfloors thee offered at $1,495,000 And crown thy good with brotherhood From sea to shining sea!

O beautiful for pilgrim feet Whose stern impassioned stress A thoroughfare of freedom beat Across the wilderness!

America! America!

God mend thine every flaw, Confirm thy soul self-control, salein PeNdINg Thy liberty in law!

ProMeNade, 804 Gorgeous custom Lube kitchen with granite counters, range hood, breakfast bar, and opens to the huge living area. Spectacular panorama of the gulf, bay,for and city as far as theproved eye can see.

O beautiful heroes offered at $749,000

In liberating strife.

Who more than self their country loved And meracy more than life!

America! America!

May God thy gold refine Till all success be nobleness And every gain divine!

sale PeNdINg

bayPorT club, 832 Large 2 bedroom, 2 bath in fabulous community.

Very private, wooded view. Great Tennis facilities, huge pool, private beach, fishing pier and clubhouse. Extremely rare, fully funded condominium. offered at $439,000

reNaIssaNce, 419 Sunlit, beautifully maintained with bay views. Two bedroom, two bath with all rooms facing the water. Great location close to the arts and downtown Sarasota. Manicured grounds, pool, and more. offered at $309,950

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erIN mcWhorTer 941.228.1405

erIN McWHorTer 941.228.1405

mark.huber@sothebysrealty.com | longboatkeylistings.com

Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

115253

mark huber 941.356.2435

24

SPIRIT OF AMERICA

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THURSDAY, jULY 4, 2013

Photos by Mallory Gnaegy

The Albrittons have four generations currently represented in their business — John, Larit, Sarah, Jarrad, LeeAnn, Mallory, John, Gage, Gavin and John. Albritton Fruit Co. is the oldest family-owned business in the state; it was founded in 1880. Seventy-six-year-old John Albritton, front right, is a seventh-generation Albritton and learned the business at age 10. He says the secret to growing oranges is hard work. Mallory Albritton, right, who has been working in the groves since she was 7 years old, takes a lick of the orange ice cream at the Albritton Grove store, though her tongue is red from the raspberry sherbet she had previously consumed.

Inflatable Party & Play Center

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OPEN PLAY

The Manatee County Y participates in the YMCA Department of Defense Initiative Program!

VISIT US ONLINE AT: www.bouncedownunder.com • 941.366.0123 Sarasota Commons •935 N. Beneva Road, Suite 802 • Sarasota, FL 34232

The YMCA Military Outreach Initiative provides $31 million in government funding for eligible military families to receive free memberships at full-facility YMCAs in their communities.

Visit www.manateeymca.org to find out more!

115397

Mon-Thurs 10am-7pm Fri-Sat 10am-9pm Sunday 10am-6pm $6 walk-in play every Monday $6 walk-in play all day July 4

Active Military are welcome to workout at the Y at no cost.

Summer Membership Special - NO JOINING FEE (up to $100 savings, for a limited time)

Furniture • Clothing • Electronics Jewelry • Household Items Children’s Items • Christmas Items One coupon per visit. Must present ad. Expires 8/4/13. Cannot be combined with any other offer.

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113855

ACCEPTING DONATIONS

Manatee County Y

Lakewood Ranch Branch 782-0220

Bradenton Branch 792-7484 * Parrish Branch 981-5323

www.manateeymca.org

3 locations City ReaCh Clothing StoRe

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your donations help City Reach with daily food and clothing giveaways, foster care help programs, homeless outreach programs, bus programs, kids camps and many other ways to love people. every dollar raised stays local in our own community

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Free Food Hotline 941.592.3301

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SPIRIT OF AMERICA

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THURSDAY, juLY 4, 2013

25

Photos by Mallory Gnaegy

Laura Yoder and Fannie Beachy quilt about eight hours a day, six days a week, at Alma Sue’s Quilts, in the Pinecraft neighborhood. They learned this art form from their mother when they were 12 years old. Yoder will be 92 in October, and Beachy is 82 years old. Beachy says, “If (my mother) didn’t like the stitches, she’d wait till I went to bed to take the stitches out!”

Marie Selby Botanical Garden’s horticulturist Dan Witten carefully plants a Siam ruby musa or, in layman’s terms: a banana tree. Each plant that’s added to Selby Gardens is tended to with care — its location is planned according to aesthetics and space; the hole is dug to the specific plant’s measurements; and the perfect amount of fertilizer is added.

Eventually the tree will be large enough to bear fruit and shade future plants at the gardens.

Gloria Musicae presents

H AMERICA CELEBRATING

r nde U 2 & E! n e E ildr F R h C re a

A concert of stirring American music with the Gloria Musicae Singers under the direction of Dr. Joseph Holt

July 4 • 4pm

First Church, 104 S. Pineapple Ave, Sarasota

Wanna talk?

Stay downtown for dinner and watch the fireworks over Sarasota Bay!

115110

Featuring a Florida premiere of The Gettysburg Anthem

by Alan Gershwin, son of George Gershwin

Free Parking at Zenith Garage

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941.355.1112 | 3701 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota, FL 34234 SarasotaJungleGardens.com

114129

941-360-7399

SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, jULY 4, 2013

At right, L.T. Ranch foreman David Patton, ranch hand Jimmy Deans, Hi-Hat foreman Larry Scarborough and ranch hand Jacob Kastor are pictured moving cattle to the pins.

“This is what we do every day, and people don’t even know this is here,” Patton says. “People just look at Florida as a development and I am just worried that there isn’t going to be any of this left for the next generation.”

Patton, above, has been working on the ranch — which sits on approximately 1,800 acres and has roughly 450 heads of cattle — for more than 18 years. He explains that a long time ago Florida cowboys, or crackers, used the whip as a tool to control the cattle, kill rattlesnakes and communicate with each other across large fields. Like his predecessors, Patton uses the whip as a tool. “It’s just like a hammer to a carpenter,” he says.

Photos by Yaryna Klimchak

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26

SPIRIT OF AMERICA

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THURSDAY, juLY 4, 2013

27

Celebrate Independence in Downtown

SaraSota July 4th

Fireworks show Downtown 9:00 pm

Cannons Marina owner David Miller remembers the day he and his father, Paul, set out on a fishing trip on Longboat Key. Miller was only 4 in 1955, but he recalls when they pulled up to a wooden shack owned

by Ernie Cannon. Paul Miller was looking for bait; Cannon wanted to sell the place; and later that day Paul Miller bought it on a handshake agreement. When Miller took over the family operation in 1972, he changed the name from Cannons Boat Dock to Cannons Marina to make it sound more modern. He no longer just rents small rowboats like his father had, but has also started selling large boats that have motors, too. Last year, Cannons Marina sold 112 boats, and in the past three years it has become one of the top boat dealers in the world.

Where do You want to live?

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7022 Dominion Lane

Located in the Country Club of Lakewood ranch, this Lee Wetherington Home looks out onto the 17th fairway. Lovely 4/3 pool home.

Listed at $699,000. MLS#3978897

Karen Chandler

LV5983

Selling Luxury and Waterfront Properties since 1996!

941.544.4919 941.349.3444

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115309

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28

SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, jULY 4, 2013

Mallory Gnaegy

Nicole, Joshua, John and Nathan Ditzel are an average four-person American family. They go to the beach, play at parks and attend church every Sunday morning.

Unique Families In addition to celebrating their birthdays and anniversary, the Ditzels will celebrate ‘Gotcha Day’ — the anniversary of the day they adopted their Ugandan son, Joshua.

Nicole Ditzel, a kindergarten teacher at Kinnan Elementary School, is off for the summer.

She sits on her back porch watching her two sons play in the picket-fenced backyard.

“People keep saying I must have my hands full,” she says. “But, this summer has been pretty easy.”

Her husband, John, returns from his job as senior publications designer for information technology company BICSI, and, as he slides open the porch glass door, his sons, 3-year-old Nathan and 2-year-old Joshua, come running to him.

“Dada!” Joshua exclaims, reaching up for his father to hold him. John Ditzel picks up his son and gives him a kiss on his sweaty forehead.

“He fits in so easily,” John Ditzel says of Joshua.

“Now, they’ll fight over a toy — the stuff kids do, you know — and I catch myself thinking, ‘He’s always been here.’”

In reality, their newly adopted son, Joshua, officially joined their family May 24, when the couple returned from a five-week trip to Uganda to bring him home.

The Ditzels explain that adoption was what God called them to do. They’d both volunteered in various ways for Bayside Community Church’s Bridge a Life program, which works with abused, abandoned, neglected and orphaned children.

One such instance was in fall 2011 when John Ditzel went on a mission trip to help at an orphanage in Peru.

“I’m not a crier, but in Peru serving orphans, I just wept the entire time,” he says.

He came home with baby fever and told his wife, “We gotta adopt!” The couple had always wanted two children, but Nicole Ditzel wanted to take time to think about the decision. The Dit-

zels went on a June 2012 misfor the best,” John Ditzel says. sion trip to Africa, where the They don’t know much couple worked at an orphanabout Joshua’s background exage. After that trip, Nicole Ditcept that he was abandoned; zel was ready. his birth mother was unable to The Ditzels fulfilled all the care for him. adoption requirements in At first, Joshua wouldn’t July 2012 and immediately felt make eye contact and would the anticipation of the adopsweat and breathe heavily. But, tion process. he almost instantly bonded “It’s just like a child growing with Nicole Ditzel, and started in your stomach,” Nicole Ditfollowing her around everyzel says. They found out before where. And, eventually, he Thanksgiving that they would warmed up to John Ditzel, too. be getting a son, and the feelWith the support of his new ings grew. “It takes time to parents’ love, Joshua did a 180 develop all those feelings … I at the end of the five weeks. knew Josh was mine and I was John Ditzel holds his wood The new family arrived at the carving of Africa with the family excited for it.” airport in the United States, But, the most surreal mo- named on the front. It’s a daily where John Ditzel’s parents ment came a few months later reminder to Joshua and his fam- and Joshua’s new brother, Nawhen, for the first time, they ily about his heritage. than, waited with balloons. saw a photo of their new son.

“In the airport, he was so Soon after, they started predifferent,” Nicole Ditzel says of paring Josh’s bedroom and their son, Nathan, for Joshua. “He ran up to strangers with his arms up the arrival of his new little brother. They bought — he was the star of the show!”

Nathan a felt map of the world with a little felt Joshua has only been in the U.S. for a few house in Florida and another in Africa with a months, but it’s been enough time for him to plane that could fly from one to the other. warm up to the family dog, Toby — of whom he “Nathan loved the idea of being the big broth- was terrified at first — and enough time for him er,” Nicole Ditzel says. to belly flop in the sand at the beach. The family Nathan stayed with his grandparents when goes to church every Sunday, where their friends John and Nicole Ditzel went to Africa to start the say, “It’s like he’s been here the whole time!” five-week transition and bonding process with “I don’t know what life he’s really had, and I Joshua. Friends of theirs, who had adopted a few don’t want to speculate,” John Ditzel says. “But months before the Ditzels, had met Joshua on he’s doing so well with us that I can’t help but their trip and relayed that he was apprehensive think he’s been redeemed or restored in a way.” of people. “We prepared for the worst and hoped — Mallory Gnaegy

“I don’t know what life he’s really had, and I don’t want to speculate. But he’s doing so well with us that I can’t help but think he’s been redeemed or restored in a way.”

— John Ditzel, dad

SPIRIT OF AMERICA

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THURSDAY, juLY 4, 2013

29

Photo by Mallory Gnaegy

Meals on Wheels of Sarasota volunteers Pat Fekete, Fran Panneton and Jeanne and Harold Young prepare veal Parmesan plates for 527 neighbors-in-need.

On this particular day, 32 drivers will make deliveries from University Parkway to Blackburn Point Road, and from I-75 to Longboat and Siesta keys.

Since 1993

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114936

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30

SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, jULY 4, 2013

Joann Hogan, Pauline Nichols and Jo Smith walk near the water at Plymouth Harbor. Nichols is from Arizona and is trying to get used to the Florida humidity.

On this morning, Hogan has already walked for a half-hour. Smith had always played golf, but when she gave it up, she missed walking the most — which is why she walks daily.

Photos by Mallory Gnaegy

Maggie Elliott and her boyfriend of nearly five years, Steve Dickervitz, are not new to adopting older dogs. Missie, left, is a Tennessee tree brindle mix who was chained to a tree for the first three years of her life. She had mange, heartworm, parasites, a skin infection and she was pregnant when she arrived at the Humane Society of Sarasota County. All of her puppies were adopted right away, but Missie kept getting overlooked — until Humane Society employee Ginny Armington told Elliot Missie’s story. Elliot had to have her, and she adopted the 3-year-old dog in May. “She’s completed our family!” Elliott says of Missie. It was important to Elliott that she find a dog that not only got along with her cat, but also got along with Dickervitz’s dog, Kanida. Kanida and Missie could barely stop playing to take a photo, and the couple couldn’t be happier with their adoption.

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114743

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SPIRIT OF AMERICA

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THURSDAY, juLY 4, 2013

31

Photos by Yaryna Klimchak

Sarasota Military Academy’s rifle team captain, Alyssa Bruno, above, went to the National Junior Olympics in June 2012 and is dedicated and committed to the sport. She used to shoot on the all-sporter team but, within a year, moved up to the precision team. Captain Laney Funk, right, aims to hit her target during practice in the school’s gymnasium. Funk is on the precision team and hopes to one day attend West Point.

Celebrate Independence on

Siesta Key

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300 W. Venice Ave. Venice, FL 34285 941-488-0649

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“Your local place for upscale Island BBQ.”

Live Music Everyday from 12 to 10pm Now Serving Breakfast Saturday and Sunday, 8-11am Free Bloody Mary and Mimosa Bar. ISLAND’S BEST HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS MON 75 Cent Wings TUES Smoked Prime Rib with Mashed Potato, $15 WED All You Can Eat Lobster, $35 THURS Full Rack of Baby Back Ribs, $15 FRI All You Can Eat King Crab Legs, $50 SAT All You Can Eat Snow Crab Legs, $35 SUN Pig Roast $5 Pulled Pork Sandwiches Happy Hour Monday-Friday 12-6pm 1/2 Off Appetizers form 3 to 6pm at Bars Only Monday thru Friday

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5211 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key

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114993

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LV5944

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32

SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, jULY 4, 2013

Photo by Mallory Gnaegy

Children First is a child care education program offered to families who qualify for low or no cost. Jean Cooper is a long-time volunteer who spends four days a week with children, such as 5-year-old Jayden, whom she’s teaching to count.

Downtown Living...

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Luxurious 4th floor corner residence in Sarasota’s signature bayfront building! This 3br/3½ ba+study and bar is perfect for entertaining both inside and out! Over 825 sq. ft. of balconies with terrific views!

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115376

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THURSDAY, juLY 4, 2013

33

American Original Art Couture

Photo by Pam Eubanks

Lakewood Ranch Rotary Club member Eva Rey smiles as 16-year-old exchange student Lorena Abreu celebrates her first hole-in-one at the Fish Hole Miniature Golf Course, in Lakewood Ranch.

Rey, who was one of three families to host Abreu during her year-long stay, made sure to take Abreu out for her first game of miniature golf, before the teen’s departure back to Brazil. Abreu has been in the U.S. for one year through Rotary International’s Youth Exchange. “Every family I lived with was different,” Abreu says. “They have different (ways to) nurture than in Brazil. I was able to see not every American family is the same way.”

Rotary International’s long-term and short-term exchange programs help unite more than 8,000 students across 80 countries for a unique culture-sharing opportunity.

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34

SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, jULY 4, 2013

Yaryna Klimchak

Manuel Maravi with his daughter, Marina, wife, Chany, and son, Victor

Triumph

Manuel Maravi is a citizen of three places — Peru, the European Union and the U.S. His son and daughter are dual citizens of the U.S. and European Union, and, in 2015, his wife will become an American citizen in addition to being a citizen of the European Union and Peru.

Manuel and Chany Maravi have been immigrants in two different countries, each offering a distinctly different experience. They immigrated in 2004 to the U.S., but that is not where their journey began. In 1991, before their children were born, the Maravis moved to Barcelona, Spain, from Lima, Peru, their hometown, to open a family restaurant, El Patio Latino, with Manuel Maravi’s mother, Marina Samaniego.

“At that moment, Spain was on the rise,” Manuel Maravi says. “Peru went into an economic and political crisis. All countries that enter a crisis don’t have the resources and jobs, and it was very insecure.”

The first years in Spain were difficult. The couple worked hard to help the business grow, and, although they missed Peru, they knew Spain brought better opportunities.

The Maravis opened a third El Patio Latino in December 2004, in Sarasota.

“It is easier to open a business here than in Spain,” Manuel Maravi says. “Things in the U.S. happened much faster and much easier. There is more control, and that is a good thing, because there is more organization.”

the next chapter

Before they moved to Spain, Manuel Maravi says the thought of living in the U.S. seemed like an unobtainable dream.

“I had a mentality that (the U.S.) was the best country in the world — we all did,” Manuel Maravi says. “It has the most potential in the world technologically and economically.”

While on a trip to visit Manuel Maravi’s daughters from a previous marriage, Katya and Veronica Maravi, the Maravis fell in love with the beaches, the weather and greenery of Sarasota.

“Our interest continued to grow,” Manuel Maravi says. “We wanted to reunite the whole family.”

Manuel Maravi received his United States citizenship Dec. 13, 2011. He calls the process of becoming a citizen a logical one.

“I consider the process to be correct,” Manuel Maravi says. “I was first a resident for five years before I could get my citizenship. It makes people understand their surroundings once they are in a place, then they can choose to become permanent citizens in the country.”

Chany Maravi must wait two more years until she can become a citizen and says when the time gets closer she will prepare and study for the citizenship exam.

The family came to the U.S. with enough savings to purchase a home and business, so the struggle wasn’t nearly as difficult as it had been in Spain.

Manuel Maravi’s daughters helped them adapt, but he says the most difficult part of living here was to understand the American mentality. He says children and families are much more independent here.

“This is not a bad thing, it is just different,” Manuel Maravi says.

The Maravis understand that their son and daughter will be more independent because of their upbringing in American society.

Victor and Marina Maravi became citizens after the family had been residents for five years.

Chany Maravi says that with the current economic downturn in Europe, job and education opportunities are better in the U.S. for her children. Their son, Victor, attends Suncoast Polytechnical High School where he is taking business classes. He waits tables, washes dishes and does administrative work to help at his parent’s restaurant.

“It’s a form of learning how the real world works,” Victor says. “I am learning every aspect of how a business runs.”

Victor hopes to run his own business one day and says the restaurant is an option. The Maravis support his goal, but say it is ultimately up to him.

“It’s an option, but you have to sacrifice a lot to be here,” says Chany Maravi. “We don’t want our children to be slaves to their jobs, but if the children want to continue it that’s fine, but if they don’t want to then that’s fine, too.”

Ten-year-old Marina likes to watch her parents work in the kitchen and helps out when she can.

Both Marina and Victor are fluent in Spanish and English. Marina has used her language knowledge to help her teacher at Tabernacle Christian School translate for a student who did not know English.

Victor also speaks Catalan — a language spoken in the northeastern part of Spain, as well as the islands — after learning it in grade school in Barcelona. He took English courses while living in Spain and says that within a month of attending school in Sarasota he was fluent in English, which made it easier to make friends.

Despite being citizens of multiple places, the Maravis hold on to their Peruvian roots. In their free time the Maravis spend a lot of time with each other as a family — going to the beaches and just hanging out.

“I miss my family, but the United States is a place with more opportunities,” Manuel Maravi says.

— Yaryna Klimchak

“I had a mentality that (the U.S.) was the best country in the world — we all did.”

— Manuel Maravi, El Patio Latino

SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, juLY 4, 2013

35

Photo by Mallory Gnaegy

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SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, jULY 4, 2013

Memorial Day was a miracle for the 265-pound loggerhead sea turtle named Murph. The turtle — unable to swim — was bound to the ocean floor with fishing line and two large shark hooks. It took Mote Marine staff, a Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office deputies, a helicopter and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers to free him.

It was the worst entanglement Mote Marine staff had ever seen. They named him after Navy Lt. Michael Murphy. Murphy was a CrossFit trainer who was killed in 2005 in Afghanistan. Murph has been receiving fluids and antibiotics in the rehabilitation center at Mote Marine Laboratory.

Photo by Mallory Gnaegy

Pat and Ron Pantello have been married for 20 years and say they spend much of their time together in the kitchen. Pat Pantello has traditionally been a Democrat, and Ron Pantello has been a Republican.

“Above all, I would describe us as patriots,” he says. “We’re lucky to live in this country, and we’re lucky to live in Sarasota. We don’t let politics come between us. Life is too short to argue.” Over the years, Ron Pantello says the two have met each other somewhere in the middle of the political spectrum. “That’s the beauty of this country,” says Pat Pantello. “We’re both free to have our own views. And our relationship has opened both of our eyes more. We really listen to each other, and that’s what I love about our marriage.”

Photo by Nick Friedman

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SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, juLY 4, 2013

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Photos by Pam Eubanks

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SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, jULY 4, 2013

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SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, juLY 4, 2013

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SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, jULY 4, 2013

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