East County Observer 2.10.22

EAST COUNTY

Observer

Lakewood Ranch’s weekly newspaper since 1998

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

Race back up to speed

PAGE 3

FREE • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

VOLUME 24, NO. 13

Big move for District 73 rep Republican Tommy Gregory plans move to Lakewood Ranch so he can run for new District 72 seat. SEE PAGE 2

YOUR TOWN

A NEW CHAPTER School District of Manatee County continues to revamp its libraries.

SEE PAGE 8

Courtesy photo

Suit up to fight cancer Head Coach Chris Kawcak’s choice in shoes for Lakewood Ranch High School’s boys basketball game Jan. 28 served two purposes.

His green-and-white Converse shoes were part of the school’s “green out” to show school spirit during the team’s game against Braden River High School.

The shoes also were to show support for the American Cancer Society during the nonprofit’s Coaches vs. Cancer Suits and Sneakers Week.

“Everybody is somehow touched by cancer, so this is an opportunity to do a little part for an effort that matters,” Kawcak said.

Jason Mickan (shown above with Kawcak), the head coach for Braden River High’s boys basketball team, sported a pair of Jordan 11 shoes.

Courtesy photo

Trenton Huffman, a student at R. Dan Nolan Middle School, works on a tablet while sitting at one of the tables in the redesigned media center.

Love on the blocks

Courtesy photo

Reality jumps off the page Book characters were jumping off the page and sitting in desks at Gene Witt Elementary School on Jan. 28.

Staff and students, including Amanda Wallach (above), dressed in their favorite book characters to celebrate Literacy Week.

Amanda came to class as a girl from Laura Ingalls Wilder’s “Little House” book series, complete with clothing from the era, a bonnet and a basket filled with plants.

Valentine stories abound on Main Street at Lakewood Ranch.

SEE PAGE 12 Ian Swaby

Shawn Marie and Torrey Spears share a kiss.

A+E

Opera singer is right at home.

INSIDE

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

District 73 representative on the move Florida Rep. Tommy Gregory avoids District 74 showdown with James Buchanan by announcing he will move to the Lakewood Ranch area.

JAY HEATER MANAGING EDITOR

A

fter knocking on 15,000 doors in Lakewood Ranch during his first election campaign in 2018, District 73 Rep. Tommy Gregory said he became very familiar with the area.

Although he lived in eastern Sarasota County, just off Fruitville Road, his district was made up mostly of Manatee County residents.

“Almost 200,000 of my constituents were Manatee County residents,” Gregory said. “That’s 85% of my district. The other 15% were Sarasota County residents.”

With the district redistricting map approved by the state House and now headed to the Florida Supreme Court for approval, Gregory’s district is scheduled to be changed dramatically. His current home address would put him in the redrawn District 74, where James Buchanan is the state House representative. A new District 72 has been formed to represent eastern Manatee County, including the Lakewood Ranch area, with its southern border ending at University Parkway and the Manatee-Sarasota counties border.

Gregory, a Republican, announced Tuesday that he will buy a home in the Lakewood Ranch area to qualify him to run for the new District 72 representative seat.

If he had stayed at his current residence, he would have run against Buchanan, who like Gregory is a Republican who won his seat in 2018 and was reelected in 2020.

“One of us had to make a sacrifice,” Gregory said. “I thought it should be me. We knew our area will benefit if James Buchanan and I both come back with four years of experience under our belts. You are much more efficient in your fifth year than your

first. It takes time to see how it all works. There is a lot to learn about getting a good bill through the Legislature. It’s more complex than you think.”

In January, Manatee County Commissioner Vanessa Baugh, who lives in Lakewood Ranch, announced she would run for the new District 72 seat to the state House. Baugh, who was in a commission meeting on Tuesday, said she would not run for the state House seat to support her party and Gregory and instead will serve the two-year remainder of her commission term.

“Like I’ve always said, I’ve been focused on serving my constituents, and now that Rep. Gregory has decided he wants to continue to represent Lakewood Ranch, I look forward to continuing to work with him.”

The Republican primary will be held Aug. 23; the general election is Nov. 8.

Gregory said he had mixed feelings about moving so he could run in District 72.

“My initial thought always has been to run for the district in which you live,” he said. “But they formed the new District 72 and that includes almost 100% of the people I have been representing in Manatee County.”

Gregory said he considers those residents his constituents and added that he learned a lot about them in the past four years.

“What I learned about people in east Manatee is that they have strong, conservative values ... strong family values ... they want you to take care of first responders, take care of law enforcement, take care of veterans.”

Gregory said he ran in 2018 with transportation and infrastructure as the main concerns. He said he wasn’t an expert on those issues in

Jay Heater

Rep. Tommy Gregory, District 73, says he is moving to the Lakewood Ranch area to run for the new District 72 seat.

2018 but has learned a lot in his first two terms.

He said he still considers that issues as main concerns of those who live in eastern Manatee County.

“I want to build roads ... I want to build roads ... I want to build roads,” he said to emphasize. “Roads affect our quality of life. Congestion has a negative impact. And you have those tragic accidents.”

He said Lakewood Ranch area residents want good government but not big government.

“If James (Buchanan) and I had run against each other, it would have been a loss for Manatee County,” he said. “With those positions come influence.”

Gregory, who retired after a 20-year Air Force career, serves as the judicial whip in the state House.

He said it is unlikely he would run for another political office if he can serve his term limit of eight years in the state House.

“I am very happy in this job,” he said. “It is an honor to serve in the House. I am looking forward to the

It is an honor to serve in the House. I am looking forward to the next four year. I want to put my four years of relationships and experience to work.”

— Rep. Tommy Gregory

next four years. I want to put my four years of relationships and experience to work.”

Gregory said he has until November to buy a home in the new district to be eligible to run.

One of his concerns about moving was his three children. He said his kids went to nine schools during his military life, and he and his wife of 26 years, Erica Gregory, wanted to give them stability when they moved to their current home. However, Grant Gregory is 20, Eric Gregory is 19, and both are students at Florida State University. Noah, 15, attends Cardinal Mooney High School and drives himself to school, so the short move to the Lakewood Ranch area won’t affect his school life.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

3

His idea floats Lakewood Ranch man is the driving force behind the Bradenton Area River Regatta.

JAY HEATER MANAGING EDITOR

I

t was 10 years ago when sports promoter Mike Fetchko, who now lives in Esplanade, was about to attend a meeting in Bradenton with city and county officials to talk about starting a Bradenton Area River Regatta.

Fetchko’s ISM-USA marketing group promoted powerboat regattas around the nation in cities like Pittsburgh, Chicago and Detroit.

Would a similar event be possible in Manatee County? Fetchko needed to have answers for what seemed to him to be like “25 public agencies.”

“I felt like I was in a Senate hearing,” he said.

Even so, Fetchko was prepared to ace any question. Then the first one caught him by surprise.

“How do you protect wildlife?”

Fetchko thought he would infuse a little humor into a somewhat tense atmosphere. He brought attention to the fact that he had been putting together races in big city waterways.

“Nothing lives in those waters,” he said, tongue-in-cheek.

“Nobody laughed,” he said.

After an awkward few moments and his assurance everything would be done to protect the wildlife in the Manatee River, Fetchko aced the rest of the questions.

Planning began in 2012 for the first Bradenton Area River Regatta, which made its debut in 2014. Fetchko learned everything possible about protecting manatees, dolphins, sea turtles and anything else living in the river. He had to get all the permits in place and needed to make sure he was on the same page as the different government agencies.

With the seventh Bradenton Area River Regatta scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 12, Fetchko and key public officials talked about the formation of what has become Manatee County’s premier one-day event.

The 2020 regatta attracted 110,000 people, as estimated by the city of Bradenton, and generated more than $8 million of economic impact. The 2021 event was canceled due to the pandemic.

Fetchko was living in Pittsburgh when he was approached by Elliott Falcione, the executive director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, about bringing an event to the Manatee River similar to his Pittsburgh Three Rivers Regatta.

“We had created a sister-city

BRADENTON AREA RIVER REGATTA When: Test runs begin at 10 a.m., qualifying heats are at 1 p.m., and championship races are at 4 p.m. on Feb. 12 Where: Along the Manatee River with great viewing areas at the Bradenton Riverwalk and on the Green Bridge, and along the waterfront in Palmetto Classes: SST/120 F-2 class (top speeds of 120 mpg) and SST-45 “Formula Lights” (speeds of 70 mph) Admission: Free Music: On the Bradenton Riverwalk Pavilion stage: Almost ABBA, American Made Band and the Blooze Brothers.

On the Palmetto Main stage: Andy Pursell Band and Randy McNeeley Band. Complete list of bands and times at BradentonAreaRegatta.com.

Special guests: World flyboarding champ Kristen Smoyer does acrobatics 80 feet in the air on an elevator of water from Pier 22 at 7:15 p.m.; the Frisbee flying canines of Team Zoom and Daredevil Dogs perform at the Bradenton Riverwalk Stage at noon, 2, 3 and 6 p.m.

For kids: A kids zone will be offered on both sides of the river (Bradenton Riverwalk and Palmetto Riverside West Park).

Fireworks: Zambelli Internationale provides the fireworks over the river near the Green Bridge after the final race of the day.

partnership with Bradenton and Pittsburgh 12 years ago,” said Falcione, who spent six years earlier in his career as the assistant director of operations and administration for the Pittsburgh Pirates. “I’m a native Pittsburgher. Did you know 40,000 Pittsburghers visit Manatee County each year?”

After the sister-city arrangement was formed, Falcione and other county officials visited Pittsburgh to see if officials there were doing anything that could apply in Manatee County. Falcione’s friends with the Pirates put him in touch with Fetchko.

A few months later, Fetchko was checking out the Riverwalk area.

“It was beautiful,” Fetchko said.

“But it was not what we needed. We could put 25,000 to 30,000 in that space on the Riverwalk, but I told them we couldn’t do the event unless we closed the Green Bridge.”

Fetchko didn’t think that was pos-

Jay Heater

City of Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown stands with race promotor Mike Fetchko in front of the Green Bridge.

sible, so he packed up and headed to Tampa International Airport for the trip back to Pittsburgh.

“I felt good I had done my work,” he said.

Waiting at the airport, Fetchko received a call from then-Bradenton Mayor Wayne Poston, who told him he had spoken to Gov. Rick Scott and that the bridge could be closed.

Fetchko went back to Bradenton.

Gene Brown, the current mayor of Bradenton, was on the city council at the time.

“I liked Mike’s energy, his positiveness,” Brown said of Fetchko.

“There was an excitement of bringing this downtown, and the bridge was the best part. If we had to contain everyone on the Riverwalk, it would have been too much. The bridge was a process, but we had a great team.

We knew that people would have been frustrated, and they wouldn’t come back.”

Brown said the officials realized at the beginning it was an important project for the entire county.

“If you come here, you will come back,” Brown said.

In 2014, Brown and his grandson, Jacob Brown, walked around the waterfront all day checking out the first Bradenton Area River Regatta.

Watching his grandson enjoy the event gave him feedback from the entertainment aspect, and then he heard from local restaurants.

“This one event they said would pay two months of rent and would get them to summer,” Brown said.

Brown said Bradenton is about to embark on a $50 million downtown capital improvement plan to “bring us to the next level.” He expects the

Courtesy photo

Spectators watch the Bradenton Area River Regatta from the Green Bridge, which closes for the event.

“It was so important for us to have a signature event to infuse new dollars into the community. We wanted to bring people to the urban core. It brought a spotlight to the riverfronts.

It provided residents with a free family event.”

— Elliott Falcione

regatta to grow and noted that “it shows we can have more events.”

Falcione said it was successful only because the cities of Bradenton and Palmetto and Manatee County all came together.

Since the beginning, Manatee County has supported the event with $200,000 a year. Falcione stressed that 100% of the money comes from tourism tax proceeds.

“It was so important for us to have a signature event to infuse new dollars into the community,” Falcione said. “We wanted to bring people to the urban core. It brought a spotlight to the riverfronts. It provided residents with a free family event.”

It also persuades visitors to move to Manatee County. Fetchko moved to Lakewood Ranch in 2014 after discovering the area’s beauty.

District 5 Commissioner Vanessa Baugh was in her first term as a county commissioner when the project was being planned.

“I thought it would fill up the restaurants and hotels, and it has proven to do that,” Baugh said. “I haven’t been personally involved with it, but I have seen the numbers. And in my opinion, the event only works with the bridge closed. You can look right down on the boats going 100 mph.”

Falcione said he wanted to present an opportunity that made sense.

“You don’t need multiple premier events,” he said. “But the regatta is special.”

Although Falcione and Fetchko credit each other with being the driving force behind the regatta, Falcione called Fetchko “one of the most creative promoters I’ve met on the planet.”

Fetchko is now working on the 2022 event with 25 part-time employees, including 20 who work with him on events in Pittsburgh. He said it’s kind of a reunion for those workers to come to Manatee County each year.

Fetchko, on the other hand, is here year-round.

“I thought this would be a good thing,” Fetchko said of the Bradenton Area River Regatta. “It was perfect because of the width of the river, the board ramp in Palmetto. Standing on the Riverwalk, that canvas was there.

There was some angst, but I knew it would be a great event.”

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

Meet Angie Scarpa Lakewood Ranch Medical Group – OB/GYN

Angie Scarpa, CNM, ARNP Certified Nurse Midwife and Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner

Comprehensive Obstetric and Gynecologic Care for Women in all Phases of Life We are pleased to introduce Angie Scarpa, CNM, ARNP, the newest OB/GYN provider to join Lakewood Ranch Medical Group.

Jay Heater

Justin Kristich, the Suncoast Classic tournament director, said fans will find conditions back to normal in 2022.

Angie earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from the University of South Florida in Tampa. She was a labor and delivery nurse for 13 years at Sarasota Memorial Hospital.

She continued her education and earned her Master’s in Certified Nurse Midwifery/Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner at the University of Cincinnati.

Commander takes charge

She has been a midwife for over five years. She truly loves delivering babies and providing women with prenatal and postpartum care and beyond.

Suncoast Classic’s Lakewood Ranch course captures national attention after GolfPass review.

JAY HEATER

Schedule your appointment online at lakewoodranchmedicalgroup.com/appt

MANAGING EDITOR

Opened in 2016, the Commander course at Lakewood National Golf Club might have been a little, well, green when it hosted the Korn Ferry Tour’s LECOM Suncoast Classic for the first time in 2019.

Jamie McCrosky, the superintendent and head of agronomy at Lakewood National for ICON Management, called the course a little “rough” during the first Suncoast Classic.

“I would say, going into year one, the fairways were still firm,” McCrosky said. “They did not have as much cushion as they have now.

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EAST COUNTY

And the greens were rock hard that first year. These greens are more receptive now, and they are at the tour standard. Of course these (pros) can top it on a dime.”

McCrosky said the fairways lacked definition to clearly show where the fairways stopped and the rough began. He said that is not an issue now.

Of course, those factors couldn’t hurt the course’s reputation because it didn’t have one yet.

“In 2019, it was like, ‘Who are these guys?’” Suncoast Classic Tournament Director Justin Kristich said. “It was this course in the middle of nowhere.”

Lakewood Ranch, the No. 1-selling, multigenerational masterplanned community in the country, is certainly somebody these days.

Lakewood National Golf Club has come right along as well.

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golf subscription service that offers instruction, equipment bargains, free rounds of golf and discounts at courses and clubs. It collected 320,000 reviews in 2021 to rank the top 50 golf courses in the United States according to value, conditions, layout, pace of play, staff friendliness and off-course amenities.

The No. 1-ranked course in America? The Commander course at Lakewood National Golf Club, owned by Lennar.

GolfPass called the Commander course, “The cure for the common real estate development golf course.”

It said the course, designed by the Arnold Palmer Design Co., led the way in condition and friendliness.

“It’s astonishing,” McCrosky said of the ranking. “It is very flattering, considering the courses that are available.”

As examples, the famous Indian Wells course (California) ranked 27th and the renowned Edgewood Tahoe course in Stateline, Nevada, was 32nd.

“You always want to be able to brag about your course,” Kristich said.

Nick Campbell, the director of golf at Lakewood National Golf Club, doesn’t mind bragging a bit.

He said the Commander course is now “fully matured” from the time it hosted its first Korn Ferry event.

But he said many factors helped the course rise in the eyes of those who filled out the GolfPass reviews, including the off-course Tiki bar.

Now costing $139 a round, the course has exploded in popularity. It hosted more than 50,000 rounds in 2021, with another 50,000 rounds on Lakewood National’s Piper course.

The Piper course was ranked No. 4 on the GolfPass list of its top 50 public courses.

Piper has just begun its third year of existence and McCrosky said that while a gem, it isn’t quite the level of Commander. He said the builders went all out on Commander, spending $7 million. Piper was a $3.8 million project.

The two courses’ popularity — they currently do a combined 460 rounds a day and are booked solid from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. — eventually might make it hard to host tournaments such as the Suncoast Classic.

Lakewood National has sold 1,325 of

THE

File photo

Hayden Buckley puts on the “White Jacket” after winning the 2021 LECOM Suncoast Classic.

SUNCOAST CLASSIC SCHEDULE WEDNESDAY, FEB. 16 Pro-Am tournament — Begins at 6:50 a.m.

THURSDAY, FEB. 17 First-round competition — Begins at 7 a.m.

FRIDAY, FEB. 18 Second-round competition — Begins at 7 a.m.

SATURDAY, FEB. 19 Third-round competition — Begins at 8:30 a.m.

Junior Clinic — Begins at 3 p.m. at the driving range SUNDAY, FEB. 19 Final round of competition

its planned 1,556 units and the golf courses, which have been available to the public to draw potential home buyers, is expected to go totally private in the next year or two.

Campbell said the Korn Ferry

Tour’s fame has brought buyers to Lakewood National since the tournament’s debut in 2019, but with most of the homes sold and the course full, the benefits have changed.

He said many of the residents love the Korn Ferry Tour and enjoy volunteering, which gives them an opportunity to be involved. Of course, other members worry about access.

Campbell said Lakewood National will keep the Piper Course open to the members as long as it runs the Korn Ferry event.

Kristich, who said 2022 marks a return to normalcy, said Lakewood Ranch continues to embrace the Suncoast Classic. Last year, with pandemic restrictions, he said the volunteer force was down to 350.

This year, he has more than 500 volunteers already signed up. “It’s nice when the Canadian border opens up,” he said.

Fewer COVID restrictions will make a difference in most aspects of running the tournament.

“Generally, we are back to preCOVID levels in terms of sponsors, ticket sales, our Fan Zone and our

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

number of volunteers,” Kristich said. “The tournament was harder to manage last year with those COVID variables. We didn’t know what was going on ... there was a lot more unknowns.”

The Fan Zone, which will offer 26 vendors this year, above the 24 in 2020, is one of Kristich’s favorite aspects of the tournament. It leads from the entrance point of the tournament to the course.

“Tito’s is back,” Kristich said of the vodka vendor. “When they weren’t able to be here last year, I was getting a lot of questions of whether they would be back. Tito’s is making signature drinks for (the tournament) this year, and they will have cornhole and other games.”

Many of the vendors who participated in 2020 are back in 2022. Kristich said even when they couldn’t have a vendor booth in 2021 because of the pandemic, they found ways to stay involved in the tournament.

Kristich is a big fan of food trucks, and those will be back in force offering gourmet hot dogs, pizza, barbecue items and jerk chicken.

While draft beer was sold on the course before last year’s tourney, they will stick to canned beer in 2022. Besides the food items in the Fan Zone, each nine-hole section will have two food booths on the course.

Kristich, who lives at Lakewood National, said the VIP area around the 18th green, the course’s main viewing area, is sold out. At the No. 9 hole, Lakewood National residents will have an area where they can sit in their golf carts and watch the action.

He expects more than 20,000 fans this season, which would match the attendance in 2020. The pandemicinfluenced tournament fell to 14,000 fans last year.

As far as the course, Kristich said most of the maturing has had more to do with aesthetics.

“It’s much more about landscaping,” he said. “The homes are full capacity now, and the course is settled. It’s more of a visual thing.

“But it’s still a favorable course for golfers with wide-open fairways and tough green complexes. Then you obviously have the wind.”

LECOM SUNCOAST CLASSIC FACT SHEET

n The tournament is a Korn Ferry Tour scheduled event n 50 players from the Korn Ferry Tour receive their PGA Tour cards each year n The tournament has a contract with Lakewood National through the 2026 event n It is the first Korn Ferry Tour event on the calendar in the United States each year n 144 players from around the world compete for a purse of $750,000 n The purse will increase to $1 million in 2023 n The host course is Lakewood National Golf Club, which is owned by Lennar Homes and operated

by ICON Management n The charitable partners are the LECOM Student Scholarship Foundation, First Tee of Sarasota/ Manatee, Bradenton Dream Center and Visible Men Academy n More than $600,000 has been donated to local nonprofits since 2019 n Tickets are $20 for adults, while children 17 and under, active-duty military, veterans, and first responders all receive free admission n Free spectator parking is located at Premier Sports Campus, with free trolley service to the course

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

THE CHORUS OF THE KEYS

Dream garage rolls into Lakewood Ranch

proudly presents

Developer David Slone says his Luxe Dream Garage project has sold half the units with groundbreaking scheduled for July 1.

JAY HEATER

Together... Again

MANAGING EDITOR

A

The Sarasota Chorus of the Keys proudly presents our 72 Annual Show featuring the best in Acapella four-part harmony...“ barbershop style”. We will be “TOGETHER AGAIN” to entertain you with songs that rekindle fond memories of good times and joyful moments, along with spontaneous laughter and happy expectations for the future.

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real estate developer by trade, Sarasota’s David Slone always is looking for his next project.

He had that in mind, too, during the many times he drove to visit his brother, James Slone, who lives in the Lakewood Ranch area.

David Slone had combined with four business partners to consider building a garage condo concept.

The question wasn’t so much if they would do the project, it was just where to put it.

David Slone continued to drive through Lakewood Ranch to see his brother, and it finally hit him.

“I kept falling in love with Lakewood Ranch more and more,” he said. “This is the perfect neighborhood ... Multimillion dollar homes.

And Waterside Place is the cream.”

So the Luxe Dream Garage motor condo complex will be built on Communications Parkway in the Lakewood Ranch Corporate Park, right across from the back entrance to Gold Coast Eagle Distributing. Slone said the groundbreaking for the 5.2acre parcel is scheduled for July 1 and he expects the first condos to be ready by late fall.

Although it is his first motor condo complex, Slone is convinced it will be successful. He already has sold more than 30 units in the 65-unit complex and he expects to be sold out before the project breaks ground.

The garage condos range in price from $300,000 to $475,000. Sales began in November.

Slone said his customers range

Jay Heater

CONDO DELUXE

LUXE DREAM GARAGE What are they: Customized motor condos for car, RV and boat enthusiasts, or for other storage How many: The 65-unit project is built on a 5.2-acre project Where: The site is on Communications Parkway in the Lakewood Ranch Corporate Park, across from the back entrance to Gold Coast Eagle Distributing Principal owner: Sarasota’s David Slone Price: Condos range in price from $300,000 to $475,000 Construction begins: July 1 Opening: The first condos are expected to open late in 2022 Did you know?: The project includes a two-story, 3,000-square-foot clubhouse, which will allow condo owners to socialize Information: Go to LuxeDreamGarage.com

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Developer David Slone stands at the site of his Luxe Dream Garage motor condo complex in the Lakewood Ranch Corporate Park. Construction is set to begin July 1.

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

We are so proud to be part of this incredible event!

SARASOTA’S 5-STAR MED SPA Courtesy rendering

Beauty is our Business

A rendering of the Luxe Dream Garage that will be built in the Lakewood Ranch Corporate Park.

from the average Joe car collector to those who collect high-end luxury vehicles. Already the buyers have had American muscle cars, retro vehicles, Ferraris and BMWs, boats, or even have needed a place to store the high-end audio equipment they were selling.

But when they have attended area auto shows, they keep running into people who need a place to store their favorite cars.

“This is an underserved market,” he said.

In November, 2019, Sarasota residents Hans Schmeits and Dennis Brozak opened Wheel Base, at 1600 Sarasota Center Blvd., just south of Waterside at Lakewood Ranch. That was the first dip into the garage condo market in the area, but Slone said his Luxe Dream Garage will be a more high-end project with owners able to customize their spaces.

“This project will be the prototype,” he said.

But why the Lakewood Ranch Corporate Park?

Slone said he looked for properties along State Road 64 but he felt he was getting away from his target base of Lakewood Ranch and Sarasota. He said the location just off University Parkway is not only convenient for those two area, but it is accessible by Interstate 75 for car and boat enthusiasts from Parrish to Venice.

All the condos will have high ceilings that will enable owners to add a mezzanine level if they so desire. He

said those who have decide to add a mezzanine level so far have designed kitchens to go on that level.

“Everything in these condos is customized,” he said.

He gave as an example the 3- by 7-foot windows above the entry doors. It is uncommon in the industry, but when added, it provides natural light.

The property will have a 3,000-square-foot clubhouse for events and socializing. The plan, at least early, will be to have monthly events at the clubhouse.

The project has been so successful, Slone said he already is seeking another property in the area.

“I’ve been developing for 35 years, and I am always looking,” he said.

“What will the market accept? Is the timing right? How’s the competition? I know other people are going to come into the marketplace.”

He said he will look for ways to keep improving his product.

“You never can relax,” he said.

“You want to keep learning from your buyers.”

He said the project shouldn’t be considered odd.

“It is similar to those people who belong to a golf club,” he said.

But did it appear odd to him when he first heard the idea?

“I would admit I thought I would develop something a little different than this,” he said.

Now it makes perfect sense.

“I have a two-car garage,” he said.

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8

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

EAST COUNTY

“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 Publisher and President / Emily Walsh, EWalsh@YourObserver.com Associate Publisher — East County Observer / Lori Ruth, LRuth@YourObserver.com

Courtesy photos

Gene Witt Elementary School students Jack Laubacker, Juliana Grosso, Lily Fouche and Logan Morton read while resting in a rocker, which is one of the flexible seating options.

LIBRARY TRANSFORMATION

The School District of Manatee County is well into a library transformation project in all of its schools.

LIZ RAMOS | STAFF WRITER

T

hey have new technology, new seating and a new design, along with, of course, books.

Media centers across the School District of Manatee

County have undergone renovations to become modern

FURNITURE

Flexible seating has become a staple of the new renovations. Media centers could have chairs that rock back and forth, couches, ottomans, wobble stools and more.

The different seating options allow students to be comfortable as they read or work.

Various pieces of furniture have wheels, making it easier for teachers and media specialists to rework the room so students can collaborate.

“We had the early ’90s’ dark wood tables before,” Inner said. “It was just heavy, bulky and hard to move, so you didn’t ever rearrange anything.

Now this can all be reconfigured.”

The furniture at Gene Witt Elementary has bright colors to make the room fun and engaging. Meanwhile at Nolan Middle, the furniture has calmer tones.

Book shelves are more easily accessible, and books can be displayed in a variety of ways on the shelves, making them more enticing for students to pick up and read, Inners said.

TECHNOLOGY

Each media center is equipped with new digital display technology, such as a large Samsung screen.

Teachers are able to project images and lessons onto the screen, making it easier to show examples or explain what needs to be done.

Some media centers have more

Carmen Wasson, a Gene Witt Elementary School teacher, takes students through an assignment using the new Samsung screen.

than one screen on opposite sides of the room, making it easier for all students to see.

Media centers also have some computers for students to use for research and studying. Students also can bring devices such as tables and Chromebooks to the media center.

Gene Witt Elementary was able to get a state-of-the-art TV production room with a green screen that students use to create morning news segments.

Director of Creative Services / Caleb Stanton, CStanton@YourObserver.com Creative Services Administrator / Marjorie Holloway, MHolloway@ YourObserver.com Advertising Graphic Designers / Luis Trujillo, Taylor Poe, Louise Martin, Shawna Polana Digital Developer / Jason Camillo, JCamillo@YourObserver.com Director of Information Technology / Adam Quinlin, AQuinlin@YourObserver.com Chief Financial Officer / Laura Strickland, LStrickland@YourObserver.com Controller / Rafael Labrin, RLabrin@YourObserver.com Office and Accounting Coordinator / Donna Condon, DCondon@ YourObserver.com

DESIGN

Renovations have included new carpet, paint, furniture and technology enhancements.

At Gene Witt Elementary School, a wall that created a room for a computer lab was knocked down to allow for an open-concept media center.

The more space allows for more than one class to use the media center at the same time.

Small conference rooms were built into the media center so teachers aides could bring small groups to work with students in a quiet place.

THEN VERSUS NOW

Libraries used to be a place where people came only to read. Conversations were held at a whisper, and most students worked alone.

Now the libraries have become media centers, which Nolan Middle School Principal Scott Cooper called the heart of the school.

Media centers have become a place for teachers and staff to have meetings and professional development.

The centers are filled with students collaborating and doing research.

“It’s not the old-fashioned, get a book and sit down quietly and read,” Inners said. “I definitely think it would be a place where all meetings would be held.”

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libraries that have become the heart of each school.

The project to modernize the district’s media centers started in 2016.

Since then, the district has completed the modernization of 28 media centers.

Charles Newsome, the information technology support manager for the district, said the district is on schedule to complete the renovation of the media centers in all of the district’s traditional schools by the end of the 2024-2025 school year.

“This project has created new innovative learning spaces and professional development opportunities by utilizing additional technology enhancements and a new sleek, modern design for all of our media centers,” said Scott Hansen, the district’s chief technology officer.

Renovations of the media centers at Gene Witt and Myakka City elementary schools and R. Dan Nolan Middle School have been completed.

Braden River High School is waiting for additional furniture and technology components. Work on Braden River Middle School’s media center continues as part of the schoolwide renovation.

Each media center was individually designed to meet the needs and space of the school.

Colleen Inners, the media specialist at Gene Witt Elementary School, said the media center was well used before but now students are using it even more.

“Kids just can’t wait to come to the library,” Inners said.

Check out some of the new features included in the renovated media centers:

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CEO / Matt Walsh Vice President / Lisa Walsh Chairman Emeritus / David Beliles 8130 Lakewood Main St., Suite D207 Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 941-755-5357

YourObserver.com The renovations at R. Dan Nolan Middle School included new furniture and technology that allows students to work more collaboratively.

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SIDE OF RANCH

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

9

JAY HEATER

Deputy’s courage burns bright after wreck report from the incident said the driver and passenger in the black Nissan were not wearing seat belts.

Walker said it’s not uncommon during a bad accident for those riding in the front seat to be knocked into the back seat if they aren’t wearing seat belts. Once spotting the teen, Walker went to the back window on the driver’s side and hit the window with his baton. It didn’t break after several strikes.

He went to the other side and was able to smash the back passenger’s side window. He unlocked the door as the flames rose from the dashboard to the roof.

“The kid was a teenager,” he said.

“He was in shock and shivering. I told him, ‘I’ve got to get you out’ but he was saying, ‘No, my leg.’”

Walker knew there was no time, so he grabbed under the teen’s arms and pulled him out, carrying him to safety.

“I told him, ‘This is going to hurt,’” Walker said.

A safe distance away, Walker looked for dark bruising, which might indicate severe bleeding.

He didn’t find any but kept talking to the 15-year-old until Manatee County Emergency Medical Services arrived because he didn’t want him to lose consciousness. When EMS arrived, the teen was transported to All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg.

The entire incident lasted about three or four minutes from the time Walker arrived on scene until EMS arrived.

Neither the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office nor the Florida Highway Patrol sent out a press release about the accident. Those rarely are issued unless someone dies in the accident.

I only learned about Walker’s actions because a member of the fire department alerted me about what took place. It took awhile to track down Walker, who didn’t want

Jay Heater

Randy Walker, a deputy with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, pulled a teen from a burning car after an accident on State Road 70.

any attention drawn to himself. To Walker and his fellow deputies, it’s called duty.

It’s that very duty, though, that should capture our attention and respect.

Walker, who lives in East County, owned a real estate business called Latitude 27 until 2009. His twin boys, Hunter and Logan, were born in 2005, very prematurely. While he thought he was covered by insurance, the resulting bills skied past $2 million and the insurance coverage limits. He spent all of his savings to pay those bills, then suffered through the economic downturn

that put him out of business.

He decided on a career change, going to Manatee Technical College in 2009 and earning a law enforcement certification before joining the Manatee Sheriff’s Office.

He said law enforcement is a good profession but admitted it’s hard “not to be desensitized” by many aspects of it.

On Jan. 22, he experienced one of the highs of the job.

Working a 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. shift, he was on his “lunch break” just before midnight in a park off of Lakewood Ranch Boulevard. When he takes his break, he usually tries

to watch a screen in his police car that reports the various calls for service.

In his 13 years of service, only once had he ever been called off a lunch break, and that was to help a fellow officer who was involved in a physical confrontation.

He saw the call about the crash and noticed it involved “vehicle engulfed with entrapment.” Then he looked to see where deputies were located, and no one was close.

He raced to the scene in one minute.

The FHP report said a 35-yearold woman driving the rental SUV was driving west on S.R. 70 and was slowing for the intersection when the black Nissan crushed her from behind. The 18-year-old was cited for careless driving, for not wearing a seat belt and for an open container/or consumption of alcohol.

Walker hasn’t heard anything more about the accident since leaving the scene and said that is typical. But he imagines the 15-year-old is moving around with a cast on his leg after a situation that could have been much worse.

“I am confident that if I had not showed up, that kid at a minimum would have been burned,” he said.

“So what happened makes you feel good. I have children of my own.

“It’s these moments when you can feel good. You’ve made an impact, and you’ve made a difference.”

Jay Heater is the managing editor for the East County Observer. Contact him at JHeater@ YourObserver.com.

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I

n his previous life as a real estate agent, it’s not likely Randy Walker would have saved a child’s life when he came upon an accident at the intersection of State Road 70 and White Eagle Boulevard in Lakewood Ranch just before midnight on Jan. 22.

Like most of us in the general public, he might have had tunnel vision.

The scene was chaotic, with two smashed cars, one of which, a black Nissan Versa, was on fire. Four adults standing alongside the damaged cars were pleading for someone to help a Bradenton 18-yearold who was bleeding badly from a severe cut on his hand. A Rock Island, Illinois’ woman in the second damaged car was stunned as she stood alongside her rented Subaru Forester.

The logical first step might have been to help the bleeding teen. How many people do you know who would run toward the fire?

But since 2009, Randy Walker has been a law enforcement officer for the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and his training took over when he arrived at the scene.

“Is everyone out of the car?”

Walker asked quickly.

A bystander yelled, “Yes, we got him out. He is bleeding bad.”

Walker noticed, though, that both air bags in the burning car had been deployed.

“I believed there was another passenger,” he said as he remembered the incident. “I grabbed my flashlight and ran to the car. The adults were telling me, ‘No, no, no.

We got everyone out.’ But I saw a backpack on the backseat and scattered belongings.”

He looked in the back seat.

“There was a kid crumpled up on the floor, behind the driver’s and passenger’s seats,” Walker said.

“His femur was broken.”

The Florida Highway Patrol

10

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

LONGBOAT KEY DELAYED VIDEO SERIES LAKEWOOD RANCH SERIES SARASOTA SERIES VENICE SERIES

Circus back in town

Tickets at the Door Only $10

LIZ RAMOS STAFF WRITER

SARASOTA INSTITUTE OF LIFETIME LEARNING

A Lifetime of Learning in Two Exciting Series

S

arasota’s Bello Nock will bring back his comedic flair and daredevil stunts to the big top at Nathan Benderson Park.

Nock has performed all around the world but will be performing in his hometown for Circus Sarasota for the third time.

“He brings some comedic antics where he gets involved with our audience as well as the daredevil, kind of scary, thrilling act into the show,” said Jennifer Mitchell, the managing director of the Circus Arts Conservatory. “We get the biggest response from our audiences when Bello is featured in our show.”

The Circus Arts Conservatory will feature nine acts in its 24th Circus Sarasota that runs Feb. 11 through March 6 at Nathan Benderson Park.

“We bring together the world’s greatest, most-elite, oftentimes hardest-working current athletes and artists together for an incredible lineup and show under the big top,” Mitchell said. “We’re the hometown circus. We are the circus that serves this community.”

Many of the acts have been featured on shows such as “America’s Got Talent,” “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” “Good Morning America” and “The View.”

All proceeds from Circus Sarasota will benefit local artists, students, the elderly and the conservatory’s outreach programs.

“Many performing arts organizations and the entertainment industry as a whole suffered tremendously during the pandemic,” Mitchell said.

“We struggled. In our case at the Circus Arts Conservatory, it was important to us to keep our core team employed even though we were not putting on traditional shows. I encourage audiences to go out and support all performing arts organizations. It’s not only going to make you feel like you’ve done something for yourself, but you’ve done something for our community, our artists, our students and our outreach programs.”

Longboat Key, Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, and Venice - in Person or Video On Demand

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LBK VIDEO SERIES

Monday, Febuary 21 7:30 PM Temple Beth Israel

Monday, Febuary 14

Sarasota,10:30 am - Venice, 3:00 pm Longboat Key Video, February 21, 7:30 pm

Rachel Halvorson, Viola As principal violist with the Sarasota Orchestra, Rachel also plays in the Sarasota Orchestra String Quartet. She is a passionate advocate for contemporary classical music and is a new faculty member at the Sarasota Music Conservatory.

Global Issues AN INSIDER’S VIEW OF TODAY’S WORLD

Tuesday, February 15

Sarasota,10:30 am - Venice, 2:30 pm

The Online Accelerator Baroness Margaret Jay will discuss

how the Covid 19 pandemic has unexpectedly increased our internet use.

Is it short term or a permanent change? Should we welcome it or fear it?

Wednesday, February 16 Sarasota,10:30 am

2022 Elections: Perspectives on National and Florida Races

LBK VIDEO SERIES

Thursday, February 17 7:30 PM LBKBeth Temple VIDEO SERIES Israel

Thursday, February 24 7:30 PM Temple Beth Israel

Florida is again at the epicenter of politics.

Dr. Susan A. MacManus will focus on the most partisan-competitive races and the state’s diverse electorate.

Thursday, February 17

Sarasota,10:30 am - Lakewood Ranch, 3:30 Friday, February 18 Venice,10:00 am

Reckoning With the Legacy of White Supremacy in American Christianity Dr. Robert P. Jones will explain how white

Christianity has sustained a project of opposing black equality that has framed the entire American story.

Complete program details:

Check our website for Safety Protocols

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sillsarasota.org

Longboat Key SILL Video Series www.tbi-lbk.org

Photo courtesy of Circus Arts Conservatory

Bello Nick brings a combination of comedy and stunts to his act.

CIRCUS SARASOTA 2022 When: 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday with a 2 p.m. matinee Wednesdays and Saturdays, Feb. 11 through March 6; 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Sundays and Feb. 21 Where: Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota Admission: $20-$60, with children under 2 years old free Highlights: International circus artists provide thrilling performances under the Ulla Searing Big Top. Many of the artists were featured on “America’s Got Talent.”

More information: Visit CircusArts.org or call 355-9805.

Mitchell said stepping back under the big top will be invigorating after having to cancel last year’s Circus Sarasota due to the pandemic.

“We’re ready to connect our artists with our audiences again,” Mitchell said. “There’s something unique and magical about going into a big top, especially a one-ring European style like ours. No seat is more than 50 feet away from the artists. You can almost sometimes see the sweat beading on their heads.”

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YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

11

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

DENTAL IMPLANTS

Love reigns on Ranch Valentines tell their own love stories during Music on Main in Lakewood Ranch.

by Dental Implant Specialists IMPLANT TEETH IN A DAY

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IAN SWABY EAST COUNTY REPORTER

W

ith Valentine’s Day fast approaching, love is in the air all over the Lakewood Ranch area.

So what better place to find love stories than Music on Main?

The East County Observer went to Lakewood Main Street on Feb. 4 to ask couples how they found their Valentine.

Here are five of the responses from East County couples.

ALL ON 4 BRIDGES

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MOLLY AND JOE LISCIANDRO

Molly and Joe Lisciandro met while they were walking home from a concert on their college campus in Pennsylvania. “There was a girl in front of us,” Molly said. “He asked her out, but she declined because she had just gotten engaged. So we talked all the way back to the dormitories, and then he asked me out.”

Thanks to the twist of fate, the couple have been married 46 years and have two children and 13 grandchildren.

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“When I read it, I screamed out loud at work,” she said.

“I always thought about her, and I wrote her a letter when I was in college,” Torrey said. “We connected here and there, but it wasn’t until like four or five years later that I said, ‘I wonder if Shawn Marie Robinson is on Classmates?’”

To find her email address, Torrey bought a subscription to the website.

Soon, Shawn Marie drove north to Orlando, where Torrey was living, and by the next year, Torrey had asked her to marry him.

It turned out Torrey had kept a picture of Shawn Marie as well.

“Her picture was the first one I ever scanned when I bought a computer scanner,” he said. “It’s really a story of fate. We had no business connecting after being gone for all that time, then she tells me she thought about me.”

Molly and Joe Lisciandro share a kiss during Music on Main in Lakewood Ranch.

JOYCE AND ALLEN KRETSCHMAR

It was two decades ago when Joyce Kretschmar accepted the role of a chorus girl in a Sarasota musical production of “Jekyll and

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At a time when all of her friends seemed to be married with children, Shawn Marie found her thoughts suddenly drifting back to Torrey, a high school friend whom she hadn’t seen in five years.

She looked through her things and found Torrey’s senior high school photo and his letters to her, and she placed them inside her wallet. But it was the early 2000s, a time before social media had exploded, and she felt she had no way to get in contact with him.

Two months later, she received an unexpected email message: “Hey Shawn Marie, it’s Torrey, remember me?”

Photos by Ian Swaby

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politan area. Also, they both already had children and had to blend their families together. They overcame the obstacles, and the children began to get along well.

Summarizing their love story, Catherine said, “We’ve been together for 26 years, and we have raised our children, and we have traveled all over, and we now have settled in Florida because it’s our time to be warm and have activities and do fun things together.”

CATHERINE AND STEVEN LARSON

Before the days of computer dating, things were done a little differently.

Years ago, Steven placed an ad for himself in the classifieds of the Twin Cities Reader, a now-defunct newspaper in the Minneapolis–St. Paul area. “That was how we did it back then,” he said.

Soon, his future wife, Catherine, had answered the ad, and they were dating.

However, it wasn’t an easy relationship to work out, for the couple lived on opposite sides of the metro-

Charly and Silvia Andrade met as teenagers when she came from Mexico to the United States on her 15th birthday.

Charly soon developed a crush on Silvia, and they became pen pals.

But life began to get in the way.

Charly joined the military and participated in Operation Desert Storm, then they both went on to marry other people. Twenty-four years later, with both divorced with kids, they connected on Facebook and began a relationship.

“She would come to the United States, and I would go to Mexico, for eight years,” Charly said. “Then I proposed, and we got married.”

In June, Charly finally retired after a 30-year military career as an air marshal, and the couple are thrilled to now call East County their home.

“I’m from California originally, so it’s a major change for us,” he said.

“It’s a slower pace of life, and everybody’s friendly; it’s just an awesome community. We love hiking and nature. We wake up to sandhill cranes at our window.”

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Hyde.” She did it to please her brother, who was also in the play.

Once on stage, though, Joyce met her future husband, Allen, who was playing the titular Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde role.

“I couldn’t resist his beautiful baritone,” Joyce said. “And I fell instantly in love.”

Soon, a romance was blooming.

“It’s pretty rare for romances to survive beyond the show,” Joyce said.

“Usually it’s a fling and then it’s over.”

However, the couple have been together for 20 years.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

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M

yakka River State Park, which provides critical habitat for diverse wildlife, is renowned for its American alligators. Nearly driven to extinction in the 1950s, these iconic Florida natives are the largest reptiles in North America.

Critical members of Myakka’s ecosystem, they depend on wetlands, and Myakka’s wetlands depend on them.

Wetlands provide crucial services to the environment and the public — including water purification, flood control and erosion prevention — and alligators help keep them healthy.

As apex predators at the top of the food chain, they limit the numbers of animals that might overtax marsh vegetation. Considered ecosystem engineers, they create “gator holes” that stay full of water, not only during the summer wet season but also in the winter, when rains stop. This provides vital water as well as habitat for them and many other species.

Winter is a great time to observe alligators — from a safe distance — when these cold-blooded reptiles often come out of the water to control their body temperature by basking in the sun. And to view them, nothing compares with a visit to Myakka’s Wilderness Preserve, a 7,500-acre tract where you’ll likely find many alligators at the aptly named Deep Hole.

Deep Hole is a 131-foot-deep sinkhole at the Lower Myakka Lake that is mostly obscured during the summer. But during winter, when waters recede, fish migrate into the hole, concentrating them in a confined area. Alligators congregate on its banks, creating a spectacle.

To maintain its wilderness quality and benefit reclusive wildlife, visitation to this part of the park is limited to 30 people a day, with no motor vehicles or even bikes permitted. Day permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis at the ranger station each morning and are in high

Miri Hardy

American alligators have a crucial role in keeping wetland habitats healthy and affect habitats in ways that benefit other species.

ENJOY THE WILD Wild Florida is a monthly feature written by Miri Hardy, the first executive director of the Friends of Myakka River. Hardy has been a Sarasota resident since 2014 and holds a doctorate in social psychology from Washington University in St. Louis. She is happiest exploring wild Florida, often on her bike, and capturing its beauty though the lens of her camera.

demand. If you’re keen to take the 2.5-mile walk on the wild side down to Deep Hole, an early start is highly recommended.

—MIRI HARDY FRIENDS OF MYAKKA RIVER

Friends of Myakka River exists to support Myakka River State Park and the Wild and Scenic Myakka River. Together, we’re protecting and sharing Myakka’s Magic, to the benefit of future generations and our own.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

TRIBUTES Robert James Wollard 1934-2022

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Memorialize your loved one with a

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Robert James Wollard went to be with his Lord on January 24, 2022.

Bob was born in Chicago, IL on October 7, 1934 and graduated from Lane Tech High School. He served in the U.S. Army for two years and attended Murray State University.

Bob and Verna were married on April 12, 1957 and lived in LaGrange, IL for 45 years before moving to Hoffman Estates, IL and then to Parrish, FL 10 years ago.

Bob was very actively involved at LaGrange Bible Church, with Awana Boys ministry, as a Little League baseball coach, and at Village Church of Bartlett.

Bob and Verna also attended Emmanual Baptist Church in Parrish, FL. Bob loved the Lord and loved spending time daily

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reading the Bible and praying with Verna.

Bob is survived by his wife Verna, son David (Cindy), daughter Debbie (John), brother Thomas (Barbara), two granddaughters, two great-grandsons, sisters-inlaw, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A memorial service is planned for Tuesday February 15 at 10:30 AM at: Emmanual Baptist Church 8305 US 301 N Parrish, FL Lunch will follow in the fellowship hall.

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For three generations, we have remained focused on celebrating lives with compassion, respect and personal attention. Not because it is our legacy, but because we genuinely care.

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FEBRUARY 10, 2022

SPORTS

“It’s about becoming closer as a team and connecting to everyone through a love of the game.”

— Braden River High’s Monique Schwalbach SEE PAGE 19

HIGH

WHERE ARE THEY?

With the fourth-annual LECOM Suncoast Classic scheduled to begin Feb. 17, here’s how other golfers who finished at or near the top of the tournament’s leaderboard in its first three years are faring:

5

MARK HUBBARD Then: Won the 2019 Suncoast Classic by two strokes over Maverick McNealy by shooting 26 under par; gained his PGA Tour card later that season Now: 121st in the FedEx Cup rankings; has made the cut in three of five events played this season; best 2021-2022 finish is tied for 16th (11 under par) at the Fortinet Championship in Napa, California; has earned $184,063 this season MAVERICK MCNEALY Then: Finished second to Mark Hubbard at the 2019 Suncoast Classic by shooting 24 under par; gained his PGA Tour card later that season Now: 18th in the FedEx Cup rankings; has made the cut in eight of nine tournaments played this season; best 2021-2022 finish is second place in the Fortinet Championship; has earned $1,228,376 this season

Hayden Buckley said the biggest difference between the Korn Ferry Tour and the PGA Tour is the payouts. Buckley has made $646,820 by playing in eight events so far this season.

ANDREW NOVAK Then: Won the 2020 Suncoast Classic by one stroke over John Chin by shooting 23 under par; gained his PGA Tour card in 2021 after the Korn Ferry Tour combined its 2020 and 2021 seasons because of the COVID-19 pandemic Now: 139th in the FedEx Cup rankings; has made the cut in four of eight tournaments played this season; best finish is tied for 22nd (12 under par) at the World Wide Technology Championship at Mayakoba in Playa del Carmen, Mexico; has earned $158,138 this season

Pro finds golfing magic in Lakewood Ranch

JOHN CHIN Then: Finished second to Andrew Novak at the 2020 Suncoast Classic by shooting 23 under par; failed to earn his PGA Tour card during the 2020-2021 season Now: 34th in Korn Ferry Tour points standings after two tournaments; made the cut in both tournaments; best finish is tied for 28th (eight under par) at The Bahamas Great Abaco Classic at The Abaco Club; has earned $8,483 this season

Hayden Buckley was a late qualifier for the 2021 LECOM Suncoast Classic in Lakewood Ranch, but his win propelled him to the PGA Tour.

GREYSON SIGG Then: Finished tied for fourth with David Kocher at the 2020 Suncoast Classic by shooting 20 under par; earned his PGA Tour card in 2021 Now: 87th in FedEx Cup rankings; made the cut in seven of 10 tournaments played this season; best finish is tied for 22nd (seven under par) with seven others at the Buttefield Bermuda Championship in Southampton, Bermuda; has earned $282,854 this season

1

Former Braden River High track and field athlete Josh Thomas, a freshman at Alabama, finished seventh (6.89 seconds) out of 56 runners in the men’s 60-meter sprint Feb. 5 at the Charlie Thomas Invitational in College Station, Texas.

2

Saint Stephen’s Episcopal senior girls basketball player Jamie Springstead, who lives in Lakewood Ranch, scored 17 points Feb. 2 in the Falcons’ 61-32 home win against The Out-of-Door Academy.

3

Lakewood Ranch High senior girls basketball player Rachel Meadows scored 16 points Feb. 1 in the Mustangs’ 58-17 home win against Plant City High.

4

Daryl Lloyd sank a holein-one Feb. 3 on the No. 13 hole at Lakewood Ranch Country Club’s Cypress Links course. Lloyd used a 7-iron on the 148-yard hole.

5

Peter Pizzi sank a holein-one Feb. 2 on the No. 5 hole at University Park Country Club. Pizzi used a 9-iron on the 99-yard hole.

DISTRICT CHAMP PAGE 18

File photo

RYAN KOHN SPORTS EDITOR

E

very time Hayden Buckley takes a flight, he pulls out his phone and watches the video.

A 10-foot birdie putt on the No. 18 hole at Lakewood National Golf Club, during a playoff with Taylor Montgomery and Dawson Armstrong, was all that stood between Buckley and a win at the 2021 LECOM Suncoast Classic.

He sank it to finish 13 under par, then let out a scream as the crowd went wild.

Buckley said watching the video of the putt brings back the good vibes he felt that day. He will even watch it before he goes to sleep if he think he needs an extra pick-me-up before a big round.

When the 2022 LECOM Suncoast Classic plays out from Feb. 17-20 at Lakewood National Golf Club, the 25-year-old Buckley won’t be defending his title. Since his Suncoast Classic win, Buckley has accomplished a lot, including a tie for fourth (14 under par) at the Korn Ferry Tour Championship at Victoria National Golf Club in Newburgh, Indiana, in September. That finish placed Buckley seventh on the Korn Ferry Tour’s overall points list for the finals and earned him his PGA Tour card.

Once that card was acquired, Buckley did not waste time in playing on the tour — or in finding success. Two weeks later, Buckley finished tied for fourth (20 under par) with Henrik Norlander and Andrew Landry at the Sanderson Farms Championship at the Country Club of Jackson in Mississippi. In all, Buckley has three top-12 finishes on the tour this season.

It is possible that none of those things would have happened if Buck-

ley did not win the Suncoast Classic.

He came close to not playing in the event. It’s a story Buckley has told hundreds of times in the last 12 months, yet he still gets a smile on his face when rehashing it. He was not in the event’s initial field. A week before the event, he was 10th on the alternate list. Then he watched that number shrink as golfers pulled out for various reasons.

By the morning of the first round, he was the first alternate. He arrived at Lakewood National two hours before the round began, getting ready to play just in case his name was called. It was, 15 minutes before he had to tee off. That 15-minute window is a blur, Buckley said. He was just happy to get a chance.

Buckley capitalized on that chance, of course.

But what he remembers most from the event is not the lead-up to it. Instead, it is something his caddy Brian Mahoney — whom Buckley had met for the first time through a mutual acquaintance just days prior — said to him after the second round as the two sat and reflected on the previous 48 hours.

“Brian said, ‘Look, no matter what happens in the rest of the tournament, I’m coming with you because I believe in you,’” Buckley said. “He told me, ‘You’re going to make it to the PGA Tour.’ Sure enough, we eventually did. It took us a bit of time to get used to each other. I struggled a bit for a few months. But the win (at Lakewood National) let us keep playing the rest of the year, and we turned that into a card. I feel so comfortable with (Brian) now. I can look over at him and say, ‘I’m feeling a little lost, can you help me?’ and he can do that.

I had six caddies before him, but I hope he’s my caddy for life.”

Buckley and Mahoney have become so close over the past year that Mahoney will be a groomsmen in Buckley’s wedding, scheduled for December in Fort Myers.

Buckley said his transition to the PGA Tour has been a smooth one, crediting the Korn Ferry Tour with preparing golfers well for the next level. Buckley said that at one point he played 10 events in a row

last summer, so playing in a bunch of early-season PGA Tour events has been nothing new, even if those events have taken place in cities like Phoenix or Los Angeles instead of Boise, Idaho. On the course, Buckley said, golf is still golf. He doesn’t prepare any differently than he did in his Korn Ferry Tour days, and the fourth-place finish at the Sanderson Farms Championship convinced him that he belonged at the highest level of the sport.

The biggest change, he said, is the payouts from each event, as well as his perspective on success. On the Korn Ferry Tour, because golfers need to accumulate so many points to gain a tour card, winning is not just a goal, but the only goal. On the PGA Tour, things are different. Golfers still want to win, of course, but a top-20 finish is no longer a disappointment.

When Buckley finished tied for 12th at the Sony Open in Hawaii on Jan. 16, he earned $148,875. He earned $108,000 for his Korn Ferry Tour win. In total, Buckley has earned $646,820 so far this season.

The money hasn’t changed Buckley’s humble personality — or his tastebuds.

“I still love Chipotle and Olive Garden and go to those basic chain restaurants all the time,” Buckley said. “I still use the same clubs I used (on the Korn Ferry Tour). I’m still me; I’m just living the dream.”

Through his success, he will never forget where it all started. And he always can pull out that video.

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

PROSE AND KOHN

RYAN KOHN

Lakewood Ranch senior Johnathan Klein battles with Newsome junior Jancarlo Rojas for the ball.

Photos by Ryan Kohn

The Mustangs pose with their district championship trophy. Lakewood Ranch defeated Newsome High 3-0 to win the tournament.

Short but joyous celebration for Mustangs T

he Lakewood Ranch High boys soccer players took the trophy and held it above their heads.

They chanted a mixture of “Oh!” and “Yeah!” as they jumped up and down, then they posed for pictures for school officials. Looking at the scene as an outsider, you would have thought the Mustangs just won the Florida High School Athletic Association Class 7A state championship.

They did not. The Mustangs (161-1) were celebrating a 3-0 district championship win at home over Newsome High (12-7-1) on Feb. 2. At the beginning of each season, every team lists winning the district tournament as a goal. For some, it’s realistically the most they can accomplish. That’s not the case with the Mustangs, who are ranked second

in Class 7A and sixth in Florida by MaxPreps as of Feb. 5. Yet Lakewood Ranch heartily celebrated the district win anyway.

It was a reflection of Head Coach Vito Bavaro’s attitude. Bavaro has coached the Mustangs for 15 years and has seen the program come within a sliver of a state title, most recently at the 2016-2017 Mustangs’ state championship game appearance. The Mustangs lost 1-0 to Cypress Bay High. He has also seen teams he thought were close to unbeatable go down well before the state tournament. The point being that every accomplishment, no matter how small in the grand scheme of things, should be cherished.

“This win is great for us,” Bavaro said in the wake of the celebration.

“We have not won a district cham-

pionship in two years. It’s a monkey off our back. I think it shows everybody out there that we are the team to beat, at least in the area.”

That last sentence might cause opposing teams’ fans to raise an eyebrow, but the numbers back up Bavaro’s declaration. Against a schedule as difficult as always, the Mustangs are averaging 3.9 goals per game and are allowing just 0.56 goals per game.

In high school soccer, that’s a blowout margin. Only four Lakewood Ranch games have even been within one goal, which includes a 1-0 loss to Tampa Jesuit (18-3-1, but not in the Mustangs’ class) on Jan. 13 and a 0-0 tie Dec. 2 against Riverview High (111-4). The Mustangs have improved as the season has gone along, too.

The same Newsome team that the Mustangs stomped in the district

championship game them trouble on Dec. 8 when the Mustangs squeaked by with a 2-1 win at home.

Lakewood Ranch will play Olympia High (11-7-3) at home in a regional quarterfinal game at 7 p.m. Feb. 9. As the top seed in the region, Lakewood Ranch drew the weakest opponent; Olympia lost its district championship game 3-2 to Celebration High (11-0-4). Assuming the Mustangs beat Olympia, they will play either Celebration or Riverview on Feb. 12.

A potential matchup with reigning state champion Gulf Coast High (164-2) could await after that. The full bracket can be viewed at MaxPreps. com.

Bavaro is bullish on this team and happy that the Mustangs are heading into the biggest games of the season healthy. With a full assortment of players, including six seniors leading the way, Lakewood Ranch is at the top of its game.

“Watch out, here we come,” Bavaro said.

The Mustangs are the only area boys soccer team left standing. On the girls side of the sport, Lakewood Ranch (12-2-3) will hit the road to begin its regional tournament journey after falling 1-0 to Newsome in the district championship Feb. 1. The Mustangs will play Windermere High (13-5-1) at 7 p.m. Feb. 8.

Despite being the lower seed, the Mustangs should feel good about the match. Lakewood Ranch is ranked 10th in Class 7A and 26th in the state by MaxPreps; Windermere is ranked 26th in the class and 81st in the state. This could be a chance for sophomore Sophie Lemus, who leads the team with 15 goals, to step up.

At Parrish Community High, the girls team, which features several Lakewood Ranch-area players, is still unbeaten. the Bulls are 19-01, with the lone tie coming after an uncharacteristic effort in a 1-1 game at Venice High (9-5-3). Parrish will host LaBelle High (11-4-1) at 7 p.m.

Feb. 8. While Parrish has not had the most difficult schedule this season — beating Hardee High (11-8-2) 8-0 in the district championship — I do believe the Bulls are a legitimate contender in Class 5A. A win over LaBelle would be a step toward proving that.

Braden River (7-7-3) is also still alive after a 2-1 win via penalty kicks over host St. Petersburg High (12-51). The Pirates will host Mariner High (17-3) at 7 p.m. Feb. 8.

The girls basketball playoffs are also underway (with the boys starting this week). Unfortunately, Lakewood Ranch (11-12) and The Outof-Door Academy (9-7) lost before reaching the district championship games of their respective tournaments, so only Braden River (13-10) remains potentially alive — and even the Pirates are awaiting their fate.

Braden River lost to Bloomingdale High (22-5) 57-34 in the Class 6A District 11 championship. The Pirates will be at the mercy of the FHSAA playoff algorithm as they wait to see if they receive an at-large bid to the regional tournament. Those bids will be released Feb. 6.

Ryan Kohn is the sports editor for the East County Observer. Contact him at RKohn@ YourObserver.com.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

If you would like to make a recommendation for the East County Observer’s Athlete of the Week feature, send it to Ryan Kohn at RKohn@ YourObserver.com.

Monique Schwalbach is a junior girls basketball guard at Braden River High. The 5-foot-2 Schwalbach led the Pirates with 12 points, four assists and four steals Feb. 1 in the Pirates’ 52-11 home win over Palmetto High and had 10 points, six assists and four steals Feb. 2 in the team’s 54-34 home win over East Bay High.

When did you start playing basketball?

I started in fifth grade. I was living in Power, Montana, at the time. I started playing basketball to get more involved in sports in general, to be active.

What is your favorite food?

Hot chips. I try to fight the addiction, but it’s hard. I really love them.

What is your favorite TV show?

I love “One Tree Hill.” It is an older show, so not everyone has seen it, but I like it a lot.

What are your hobbies?

I work a lot at Smoothie King. I enjoy it. The work environment is good, and I am able to be flexible with my schedule. I appreciate that.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Monique Schwalbach

What is your best skill?

Building up my teammates and encouraging them. It’s not all about the stats or the points for me. It’s about becoming closer as a team and connecting to everyone through a love of the game.

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Tour features Greek artistry Festival offers chance to view Byzantine-style with a tour of the St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church of Sarasota.

IAN SWABY STAFF WRITER

W

hen St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church held its first Greek Festival in 1984, the celebration didn’t draw the thousands it does today.

The church congregation was only a handful of families who worshipped in a community center, but the festival proceeds went toward a big dream: the fellowship hall that stands today, built in the style of the churches of the Byzantine Empire.

As Paulene Soublis, a church patriarch and member of 30 years recalled, “There was a lot of pushback then. Why are we building such a large church?”

Nonetheless, Father Frank Kirlangitis, the first full-time priest of St. Barbara, inspired people to look to the future.

“Build it and they will come,” Soublis quipped.

People did come. The congregation grew, as did the festival crowds, but one thing that hasn’t changed is the members’ love of showing off the church. That passion will be on dis-

play again Feb. 18-20 during the 38th annual Greek Festival at St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church.

Father John Bociu said the church building has something to offer the region’s art scene. While noting the beauty and religious inspiration of displays at the Ringling Museum, he said the region has few places to view

IF YOU GO 38TH ANNUAL GREEK FESTIVAL When: Feb. 18-20 (11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday; noon to 6 p.m., Sunday) Where: St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church, 7671 N. Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota About: The festival highlights Greek culture with authentic Greek food, dancing, live music and crafts Church tours: Visitors are invited to tour the church and its Byzantine-style art. Guided tours begin every hour on the hour from 1-5 p.m.

Cost: $5 for a three-day pass (children under 12 are free) Information: Visit StBarbaraFestival.org

Left: Father John Bociu stands in front of the icons at the entrance to the altar at St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church. Above: Top of the ceiling dome, one of the highlights of the St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church. Below: Icons of Christ and the apostles encircling an oil painting of the Virgin Mary, above the church altar

Byzantine-style art.

“We are the Byzantine church here in Sarasota,” he said. “If somebody wants to be in touch with that kind of art, they visit St. Barbara to understand what it’s about.”

The Greek Orthodox tradition of decorating churches traces its roots to the Great Schism of 1054, when rising tensions split the European Christian Church into the Western Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church in Constantinople, a formerly Greek city which had become the capital of the Byzantine, or Eastern Roman, Empire. Byzantine artwork is defined by its expressive religious mosaics.

However, for Greek Orthodox believers, artwork is more than a decoration; it’s also an integral part of religious experiences.

“We pray with icons; we venerate them; we kiss them, since they represent somebody that we love,” Bociu said, “We step in the church, and we feel that they are family members, because we are a part of the kingdom of God, all of us.”

The initial artwork, a series of mosaics centered on the church altar, was installed in 1994 by Sirio Tonelli, and the display was later expanded through handmade oil paintings

by George Filippakis that cover the walls, choir loft and ceiling dome.

The mosaics follow the same layout as those of Greek Orthodox churches around the world, featuring panels of six saints with the church’s patron saint — in this case St. Barbara — on the left. Arcing above these on the wall are icons of Jesus and his apostles.

The oil paintings, viewed from left to right around the room, tell the story of Christ through the stages of

annunciation, birth, baptism, crucifixion, ascension and Pentecost.

Made with close attention to detail, the artwork showcases symbolism found in Byzantine art.

“If you look at the icons, they don’t have a blue background,” Bociu said.

“They have a gold leaf because they reproduce a different reality. They speak about the kingdom of God.” The artwork also represents Christ as clothed in blue robes, with red robes underneath, while the Virgin Mary is represented with the reverse — red robes, and blue robes underneath. Bociu said this is because blue symbolizes the heavenly realms and red symbolizes humanity.

Visitors to the Greek Festival can discover further details of the church artwork if they choose to tour the fellowship hall, but the festival itself is also an exposition of culture by the predominantly Greek congregation.

When the festival arrives, large tents go up across the property to offer food, entertainment and more.

“It is very important that the Hellenistic, the Greek, culture be showcased,” Bociu said. “It is not only getting money for the church, but also a good opportunity to give residents in the (region) the chance to taste Greek food. The vast majority that we offer to the visitors is prepared here in our kitchen, on our property. Also, the Greek culture is expressed through dances. The dances are representative of different parts of Greece.”

372174-1

Photos by Ian Swaby

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

Academy of dreamers Freshman Khushi Talluru will pursue her dream of becoming a doctor with the help of Disney Dreamers Academy.

LIZ RAMOS STAFF WRITER

K

hushi Talluru always has been a dreamer.

A freshman at Lakewood Ranch High School, Talluru has known since she was a small child that she wanted to follow in the footsteps of her mother, Siri Talluru, who works in the medical field.

Talluru dreams of becoming an emergency room doctor.

“I like thinking on my toes,” Talluru said. “I think with the ER you have to make decisions quickly and you need to make the right decisions because those decisions can impact whether the patient lives or whether there are complications.”

The Disney Dreamers Academy will help Talluru make her dream of becoming an ER doctor a reality.

Talluru was one of 100 students selected to be a part of the Disney Dreamers Academy, which provides mentors, career workshops, skills opportunities and a behind-thescenes look at Walt Disney World.

Some of the skills learned by academy participants are interviewing, networking and dressing for success.

Thousands of high school students between the ages of 13 and 19 apply to become a part of the Disney Dreamers Academy.

It took several days for Talluru to fully understand the impact of her acceptance into the program.

“I feel honored and excited because I will be able to do things I have dreamed of as a little kid,” Talluru said. “All the work that went into this, all the hopes I had, the nights I spent dreaming about this better future, now has the possibility to come true with this workshop and this academy.”

Siri Talluru described her daughter as motivated.

“She’s pursuing things (like the Dreamers Academy) on her own without any coaching because she’s focused and self-driven,” Siri Talluru said. “I just sit next to her in case she needs me.”

Khushi Talluru and her family will be at Walt Disney World so she can participate in the academy on March 3-6.

Talluru said she looks forward to getting advice from mentors and leaders in the medical field and participating in medical-related workshops. She hopes there’s a workshop on the basics of stitching wounds.

“I’d like to get hands-on experience of some of the things that are not taught early in medical school,” she said.

She hopes the academy will help her begin to plan her future.

Besides the medical field, Talluru also has an interest in screenwriting and seeing how Disney develops its movies.

Talluru would like to see more representation and diversity on the big screen. She said people, especially children, always are looking to see themselves in movies and on TV. “You want to see a part of yourself in someone so famous because that gives you hope that in the future you can be as amazing as her or I can do the things he did,” she said. “Not to have that sort of thing so young in your life, you start to think, ‘I can’t do this; I can’t do that.’ That hurts your self-confidence as a kid.”

Khushi Talluru said more representation in movies and TV will encourage people that they can change the world.

She hopes there will be a workshop on the basics of drafting a script because she doesn’t have experience in writing them.

“I hope I get to meet some of the screenwriters for some of the Disney

KHUSHI TALLURU

School: Lakewood Ranch High School Year in school: Freshman Age: 15 Dream job: Emergency room doctor Favorite school subjects: Biology and English Extracurricular activities: Varsity swimming, Academic Team, Spanish Club and Health Occupations Students of America Animal she would be: Polar bear Favorite ride at Disney World: It’s a Small World or Tower of Terror Favorite Disney movie: “Lilo and Stitch”

scenes, what goes into all the wonderful things that Disney is able to provide,” she said. “I think there’s so much more to Disney than what people see during daylight hours.

Sometimes I think the things that happened before and after the magical experience are the things that matter the most.”

movies and I get to work with them,” Talluru said. “Under their expertise, I want to learn how they’re able to immerse such cool ideas into a way that can be explained to little kids.”

Talluru’s father, Madan Talluru, will accompany her to the Dreamers Academy. He said he looks forward to seeing what the academy’s workshops for parents have to offer.

Khushi Talluru and her family will be able to visit the theme parks as well. She can’t wait to walk around Magic Kingdom and see Cinderella’s castle.

“I’m excited about seeing the behind-the-

21

ABOUT THE EVENT The Disney Dreamers Academy was founded in 2008 as a four-day event for students.

Thousands of high school students between the ages of 13 and 19 apply for the Disney Dreamers Academy every year.

Only 100 students across the country are accepted into the program.

The program provides inspirational talks, mentors, career workshops, opportunities to develop skills and chances to see Disney behind the scenes. Students will work on skills such as interviewing, networking and more.

Participants, or “dreamers,” also will be able to visit the theme parks.

Liz Ramos

Khushi Talluru, a freshman at Lakewood Ranch High School, is one of 100 high school students to be selected for the Disney Dreamers Academy.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

Fashion mission accomplished W

hile pandemic challenges continue to force the cancellations of various fundraisers, the Palm Aire Women’s Club was committed to doing whatever it could to host a fashion show that would benefit area students.

On Feb. 4, “Mission Possible” went forward at Palm Aire Country Club, featuring a lineup of eight models that included six club members along with Longboat Key Fire Marshal Jane Herrin and State College of Florida Music Program Manager Melodie Dickerson.

Those who attended watched as the models showed off outfits supplied by Dillard’s. They also enjoyed a three-course meal and took their chances at a series of raffle tickets and a silent auction.

“It’s not just for the women in the women’s club,” fashion show Chair Michelle Crabtree said of the fundraiser. “It’s actually for the whole community to get together and support a good cause.”

Proceeds benefit area college students in need of financial assistance.

“We support local charities,” Crabtree said. “That’s our mission. And we’ve had challenges, so that’s why we say it’s not mission impossible. It’s possible.”

Photos by Ian Swaby

The models, Katherine Pike, Debi Frock, Joan Greene, Lesa Hartigan, Kathleen Allan, Melody Dickerson, Kay Kwenski and Jane Herrin, pose during the grand finale.

All eyes are on Katherine Pike, a Palm Aire fashion show committee member, as she walks the runway.

Left: “Mission Possible” models posing for a photo are Kay Kwenski, Lesa Hartigan, Melody Dickerson, Joan Greene, Jane Herrin, Kathleen Allan, Debi Frock and Katherine Pike.

— IAN SWABY Debi Frock of the Palm Aire Women’s Club completes a turn on the runway.

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Craig Pittman signs his books for the crowd at the Waterlefe Golf & River Club.

Waterlefe hosts literacy luncheon The Literacy Society of Waterlefe hosted its 13th annual luncheon with guest speaker Craig Pittman.

IAN SWABY STAFF WRITER

New York Times bestselling author Craig Pittman has built a literary career informing people about Florida’s landscape and little-known facts.

So Pittman was right at home Feb. 5 at the Literary Society of Waterlefe’s 13th annual luncheon at the Waterlefe Golf & River Club.

“I love talking to a crowd like this, where a lot of folks are transplants, and there’s a lot of stuff they probably don’t know,” said Pittman, who has written six books with Florida as the focus. “I feel it’s my job to educate them about what a wonderful, whacky place the state can be.”

Each year the group hosts local writing talent with a guest speaker. This time it was Pittman, a St. Petersburg resident. Pittman entertained the crowd with humorous anecdotes involving everything from python hunters to over-thetop political corruption. His talk was met with numerous laughs.

Besides being an event where people can connect and socialize, the Literary Society of Waterlefe’s annual luncheon attempts to enrich young minds by raising funds to bolster the Literacy Program at Freedom Elementary.

Painless!

The Literary Society of Waterlefe comprises eight book clubs in the Waterlefe community. As in previous years, the event will fund the Backpacks for Literacy program, which provides students at Freedom Elementary School with meals and books.

This was the first year in which two member book clubs (led by Becky Manning and Sue Birrell) have worked directly with Freedom teachers, carefully curating curriculums that will receive funds from the literary society.

Manning hosted a table at the event, displaying books that will be offered to target groups of kindergarten students and fifth-graders.

Titles on the table included classics by authors like A.A. Milne (“Winniethe-Pooh”) and more modern books like “I Am Malala.”

“Skills and standards for children in the classroom will come from reading these books,” Manning said.

“The (Freedom) assistant principal (Michele Danowski) is on board with us, and we hope it works out really well.”

Despite the serious issue of literacy, the general mood of the event was upbeat.

“People look forward to the event all year long, and we look forward to putting it on,” said Rosalynn Kiefer, president of the Literary Society of Waterlefe. “It brings the community together. It brings the book clubs together. We celebrate literacy for our youngest and most needy and together as friends.”

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BRADENTON 19409 Ganton Avenue .77 acres Stacy Haas 941-587-4359 A4518974 $925,000

SARASOTA 7700 Iguana Drive 4 Beds 3 Baths 2,550 Sq. Ft. Lee Byron & Sue Keal 941-350-5542 A4512842 $899,998

ELLENTON 5531 70th Drive E 5 Beds 4/1 Baths 3,654 Sq. Ft. Dan Desoto, Jr 941-567-8006 A4523681 $769,000

BRADENTON 3005 65th Street E 4 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,272 Sq. Ft. Barbara Dumbaugh & Victoria Lear 941-951-6660 A4523425 $750,000

NOKOMIS/NORTH VENICE 805 Garland Avenue 2 Beds 1/1 Baths 1,150 Sq. Ft. Helen Moore 941-724-2030 N6118826 $728,000

SARASOTA 199 Whispering Sands Drive 2 Beds 2 Baths 1271 Sq. Ft. Maurice Menager 941-809-2154 A4523171 $750,000

NORTH PORT 6275 N Biscayne Drive 4 Beds 2 Baths 1,840 Sq. Ft. Sandi Dietrich 941-704-0697 A4522693 $695,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 7806 Troon Court 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,951 Sq. Ft. Gloria Bracciano 941-229-4000 A4523433 $625,000

NOKOMIS/NORTH VENICE 134 Palm Avenue E 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,760 Sq. Ft. Robin Sullivan 941-467-4210 N6118703 $599,900

SARASOTA 4542 Cedar Brush Terrace 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,261 Sq. Ft. Linda Driggs & Sara Boudarga 941-374-2920 A4523473 $565,000

LONGBOAT KEY 4390 Exeter Drive I-206 2 Beds 2 Baths 962 Sq. Ft. Sandi Layfield & Michael Nink, PA 941-914-2807 A4523843 $549,000

OSPREY 701 Crane Prairie Way 4 Beds 2 Baths 2,096 Sq. Ft. Lee Byron & Sue Keal 941-350-5542 A4523837 $535,000

SARASOTA 170 Roosevelt Drive 15 1 Bed 1 Baths 672 Sq. Ft. Rudy Dudon 941-234-3991 A4523219 $489,900

SARASOTA 4715 Tivoli Avenue 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,933 Sq. Ft. Pam Sweeney 941-266-9622 A4523596 $445,000

ELLENTON 6023 Broad River Run 4 Beds 3 Baths 1,879 Sq. Ft. Stephanie Okuley 941-773-2677 A4523602 $390,000

VENICE 408 Cerromar Circle S 137 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,581 Sq. Ft. Crystal Cosby 571-230-5013 A4523395 $349,000

VENICE 901 Addington Court 203 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,280 Sq. Ft. Kristen Wheat 941-204-8028 N6119417 $325,000

SARASOTA 5468 Riverbluff Circle V-40 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,480 Sq. Ft. Robert Moffatt & Peggy Wellman 941-374-0811 A4523186 $275,000

PALMETTO 2915 8th Street Court W Debbie Vogler 941-705-3328 A4512663 $225,000

MYAKKA CITY 3005 233rd Street E 4 Beds 3/2 Baths 4,164 Sq. Ft. Chris Baylis 941-735-4713 A4510152 $5,800,000

SARASOTA 1335 2nd Street PH10 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,363 Sq. Ft. Jonathan Abrams 941-232-2868 A4523297 $4,899,900

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 112 Mangrove Avenue 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,577 Sq. Ft. Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4502423 $3,999,000

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM

373412-1

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YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

RESEARCH EDITOR

A

home in the Concession topped all transactions in this week’s real estate. WAW Agency Co. LLC sold the home at 19453 Ganton Ave. to Ellen Piersol and Robert Rodgers, of Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, for $2.05 million. Built in 2008, it has five bedrooms, five-and-a-half baths, a pool and 5,974 square feet of living area. It sold for $900,000 in 2010.

ISLES

John and Maria Carlos sold their home at 17630 Azul Drive to Maria Zavarella and Emily Latos, trustees, of Bradenton, for $1.16 million.

Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 3,008 square feet of living area. It sold for $609,500 in 2019.

COUNTRY CLUB

John and Linda Green sold their home at 12713 Stone Ridge Place to Eric Sandler and Michele Eisenlord, of Bradenton, for $1,025,000.

Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,674 square feet of living area. It sold for $650,000 in 2009.

BOLTONS

Bjorn Sigurdsson and Hekla Smith, of Gardabae, Iceland, sold their home at 7604 Boltons Court to Archie Richard Ferrie and Jennifer Byung Yun Choi, of Bradenton, for $950,000. Built in 2005, it has two bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,484 square feet of living area. It sold for $295,800 in 2005.

RIVERDALE REVISED

Daryl and Karen Chapman sold their home at 4507 Shark Drive to George and Marie Lamarre, of Bradenton, for $875,000. Built in 1994, it has three bedrooms, twoand-a-half baths, a pool and 2,038 square feet of living area. It sold for $362,500 in 2009.

Paul and Wendy Harkness, of W. Sussex, United Kingdom, sold their home at 4623 Blue Marlin Drive to Joseph Walsh, of Bradenton, for $700,000. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,637 square feet of living area.

COUNTRY CLUB EAST

Kathryn Mazzanti and John Scott De Young sold their home at 14508 Stirling Drive to Ronald and Terri Greenbaum, of Bradenton, for $845,000. Built in 2011, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,419 square feet of living area. It sold for $427,500 in 2013.

Denise Mercier, of Upper Saddle River, New Jersey, sold her home at 14511 Stirling Drive to Bernadette Fortin, of Lakewood Ranch, for $745,000. Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,487 square feet of living area.

It sold for $430,000 in 2018.

MAGNOLIA MANOR

PINACVEST LLC sold the home at 2206 70th St. Court E. to Anna Jerusha Olekoski, of Bradenton, for $819,000. Built in 1987, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,812 square feet of living area. It sold for $356,000 in 2020.

POLO RUN

Teresa Tepen, of Pacific, Missouri, sold her home at 17732 Polo Trail to Myung Park, of Lakewood Ranch, for $791,000. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,448 square feet of living area.

It sold for $470,200 in 2020.

Jesus Castillo, of Woodstock, Georgia, sold his home at 6519 Rosehill Farm Run to Eugene Arthur Detoma Jr. and Bonnie Detoma, of Bradenton, for $585,000. Built in 2017, it

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

JAN. 24-28

has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,283 square feet of living area. It sold for $349,000 in 2018.

DEL WEBB

Pulte Home Co. LLC sold the home at 17530 Northwood Place to Dan and Lydia Healy, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, for $753,700. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,052 square feet of living area.

GREYHAWK LANDING WEST

Keith and Tina Stopko, of Parrish, sold their home at 306 Ragdoll Run to The Melillo Family Trust for $715,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,776 square feet of living area. It sold for $515,000 in 2021.

GREENBROOK

Chad and Candice Vice, of Palmetto, sold their home at 6526 Flycatcher Lane to Taylor Elizabeth Winston, of Anchorage, Alaska, for $712,300. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,578 square feet of living area. It sold for $395,000 in 2019.

Eugene and Lara Sherry, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their home at 14317 Sundial Place to Ofer Minka and Tzeira Minka, trustees, of Acworth, Georgia, for $550,000.

Built in 2010, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,120 square feet of living area. It sold for $325,000 in 2015.

Brian and Courtney Cooper, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their home at 15332 Skip Jack Loop to LPF BLVD Tampa LLC for $445,000.

Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 1,868 square feet of living area. It sold for $270,000 in 2018.

MANDALAY

Arthur Wayne Blakeman and Mary Alice Blakeman, of Parrish, sold their home at 4614 61st Drive E. to Brian and Nadine Mercieca, of Bradenton, for $685,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,083 square feet of living area. It sold for $440,000 in 2019.

Courtesy Realtor Jo Owens of Keller Williams on the Water

The home at 19453 Ganton Ave. in the Concession sold for $2.05 million and has five bedrooms, five-and-a-half baths, a pool and 5,974 square feet of living area.

of Danbury, Connecticut, Jeffrey Michael White and Cheryl Ann White-Tiedmann, of Bradenton, sold their home at 8119 Haven Harbour Way to Richard and Amy Kastner, of Henderson, Nevada, for $529,900. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,900 square feet of living area. It sold for $265,000 in 2008.

Wallace and Reba Johns, of Bradenton, sold their home at 8730 Monterey Bay Loop to Franklin and Antoinette Clendening, of North Tonawanda, New York, for $435,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,031 square feet of living area.

It sold for $416,800 in 2006.

to Dusan Vujovic and Maria Koreniako, of McLean, Virginia, for $513,900. Built in 1997, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,152 square feet of living area. It sold for $390,000 in 2018.

UNIVERSITY PARK

Charlotte Qua, trustee, of University Park, sold the home at 7020 Lennox Place to George Arias, of Bradenton, for $505,000. Built in 2002, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 2,055 square feet of living area. It sold for $412,000 in 2021.

PERIDIA

William and Kathryn Coyle sold their home at 4914 Kilty Court

CHAPARRAL

Melodi Oswald, of Sarasota, sold her home at 6807 Sagebrush Circle

SEE REAL ESTATE, PAGE 26

In with the new NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION

COACH HOMES AT LAKEWOOD NATIONAL

Steven and Susan Carroll sold their Unit 1222 condominium at 5844 Wake Forest Run to Jennifer Garner Porter and Bryan Alexander Porter, of Reading, Massachusetts, for $650,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,108 square feet of living area. It sold for $319,000 in 2018.

Longboat Key

CYPRESS CREEK ESTATES

Roy and Kim Hill, of Bradenton, sold their home at 6130 Ninth Ave. Circle N.E. to Kevin Lloyd Sphatt and Lisa Riva Sphatt, of Eden Prairie, Minnesota, for $620,000. Built in 1997, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,475 square feet of living area. It sold for $242,000 in 2012.

The Residences at the St. Regis | 941.213.3300 | From $2.4MM to $10.9MM | Call for appointment | SRResidencesLongboatKey.com NOW TAKING CONTRACTS

MALLORY PARK

Downtown St. Petersburg

Miranda Lee Butson, of Tallahassee, sold her home at 3812 Eastham Lane to Alexander and Alysa Calendo, of Bradenton, for $600,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,898 square feet of living area. It sold for $384,000 in 2017.

400 Central | 727.209.7848 | From the $1MM’s | Call for appointment. | Residences400central.com 2 UNITS LEFT

RIVERSIDE AT TIDEWATER PRESERVE

Robert Fry and Evelyn Judy Fry, of St. Louis, sold their Unit C condominium at 1245 Riverscape St. to Shea and Emily Kelly, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Charles and Marianne Wadle, of W. Des Moines, Iowa, for $575,000. Built in 2014, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 2,332 square feet of living area. It sold for $370,000 in 2018.

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James and Gail Githens, trustees, of Woodbury, Minnesota, sold the home at 3806 Azurite Way to John Vincent Fullam and Danielle Lurene Schmalz, of Bradenton, for $532,000. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,766 square feet of living area. It sold for $479,000 in 2021.

STONEYBROOK AT HERITAGE HARBOUR

Cindy Marie White-Wortman,

Sales galleries open and available for virtual or in-person presentations.

Virtual home tours | OnDemand local experts | Interactive site and floorplans

373394-1

ADAM HUGHES

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

REAL ESTATE

Concession home tops sales at $2.05 million

|

MichaelSaunders.com/New-Homes | 844.591.4333 | Sarasota, Florida Prices as of February 2022.

Licensed Real Estate Broker

25

26

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

Real estate Orthopedics Orthopedics Orthopedics Orthopedics Orthopedics

WELCOMES WELCOMES WELCOMES Orthopedics WELCOMES WELCOMES John Thomas, MD John John Thomas, Thomas, MD MD WELCOMES Orthopedic Surgery John Thomas, MD Orthopedic Orthopedic Surgery Surgery John Thomas, Orthopedic SurgeryMD Orthopedic Surgery

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FAIRFAX

FROM PAGE 25

E. to Norman Larry Davis III and Cecilia Davis, of Austin, Texas, for $500,000. Built in 1992, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,753 square feet of living area. It sold for $375,000 in 2007.

Opendoor Property LLC sold the home at 4410 Murfield Drive E. to Mihaly Hajos and Andrew Cappella, of Maiden, Massachusetts, for $405,000. Built in 1991, it has two bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,710 square feet of living area.

It sold for $337,500 in 2021.

DEL TIERRA

Kara Joshi and Anish Joshi, of Bradenton, sold their home at 14931 Flowing Gold Drive to IH6 Property Florida LP for $455,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,846 square feet of living area. It sold for $275,000 in 2020.

TARA

Stephanie Norden, trustee, and Brian Norden, of Port Charlotte, sold the home at 6423 Stone River Road to Darlene and James Reynolds, of Bradenton, for $440,000. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,798 square feet of living area. It sold for $195,000 in 2015.

LAKE VISTA RESIDENCE

Michael and Janeen Rebholz, of Mason, Ohio, sold their home at 4135 Dover Drive E. to Liliana Escobar and Cecilia Escobar, of Bradenton, for $405,000. Built in 1994, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,562 square feet of living area. It sold for $130,000 in 2012.

ROSEDALE

Elizabeth Christine Massey and Craig Bradley Chasky, of Bradenton, sold their home at 8714 53rd Terrace E. to Nadine and Robert Moulson, of Ontario, Canada, for $471,000.

Built in 1993, it has two bedrooms, three baths, a pool and is 1,925 square feet. It sold for $400,000 in 2006.

BRADEN OAKS

Maria and Rigoberto Villacorta, of Sarasota, sold their home at 5705 44th Ave. E. to Dagneris Leyva Baldespino and Belkis Silva, of Bradenton, for $449,000. Built in 1984, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,914 square feet of living area. It sold for $460,000 in 2007.

VERANDA AT LAKEWOOD NATIONAL

Daniel and Leslie Eaton sold their Unit 323 condominium at 5538 Palmer Circle to Christopher DeRosa and Thomas and Joanne DeRosa, of Whitestone, New York, for $445,000. Built in 2017, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,336 square feet of living area.

John Carson Longo and Carol Longo, of Green Cove Springs, sold their Unit E-208 condominium at 7612 Lake Vista Court to Matthew Armstrong, of Lakewood Ranch, for $428,900. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,138 square feet of living area.

It sold for $517,000 in 2007.

TERRACE AT TIDEWATER PRESERVE

Shirley Meehan sold the Unit 234 condominium at 910 Tidewater Shores Loop to Peggy Poulter and Jaime Hartfield, of Bradenton, for $410,000. Built in 2019, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,121 square feet of living area. It sold for $260,000 in 2020.

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30

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

SUNDAY, FEB. 13

CIRCUS SARASOTA Runs 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; 2 p.m. matinee Wednesdays and Saturdays; 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Sundays and Feb. 21 (Presidents Day) at Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota. Circus Sarasota returns featuring international circus artists. Admission: $20-$60, with children under 2 years old free. For more information, visit CircusArts.org or call 355-9805.

FARMERS MARKET Runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Lakefront Drive in Waterside Place at Lakewood Ranch. The Farmers Market at Lakewood Ranch will run year-round every Sunday. For more information, go to MyLWR.com.

POLO Begins at 1 p.m. at the Sarasota Polo Club, 8201 Polo Club Lane, Lakewood Ranch. The 2021-22 Sarasota Polo Club season runs every Sunday through April 24. Gates open at 10 a.m. For more information and tickets (which begin at $15), go to SarasotaPolo.com.

MONDAY, FEB. 14 TO SUNDAY, FEB. 20

Photo courtesy of Cliff Roles

COMMUNITY THURSDAY, FEB. 10

PARROT HEAD MIXER Begins at 6 p.m. at Good Liquid Brewing Co., 1570 Lakefront Drive, Waterside Place, Lakewood Ranch.

The Sarasota Bay Parrot Head Club, a nonprofit social organization formed to participate in community and environmental projects, is hosting Thirsty Thursday for members or those who want to find out more information about the club. For information, call Kristin Warner at 908-217-6879 or Marty Saia at 410370-3648.

MAIN STREET MARKET Runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Main Street at Lakewood Ranch. A variety of local shops and businesses will line the streets of Lakewood Main

HOME DELIVERY EVERY THURSDAY

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 16

Lakewood Ranch news you can’t

COMMUNITY CAMPOUT Runs from 3 p.m. Saturday to 9 a.m.

Sunday at the Greenbrook Adventure Park, 13010 Adventure Place, Lakewood Ranch. Registration is $40 per tent space. The event offers tent-pitching demonstrations, an interactive nature walk for the kids, dinner for purchase from local food trucks, a campfire, a family-friendly outdoor movie and more. To register, go to MyLWR.com.

SATURDAY, FEB. 12

NOW OFFERING CONVENIENT

The East County Observer is full of

SATURDAY, FEB. 19 TO SUNDAY, FEB. 20

Hurry, introductory offer ends soon!

find anywhere else. It’s always about You. Your Neighbors. Your

PER YEAR Reg. $75

Neighborhood.

2SIGN UP

$65

Easy Ways to

ONLINE: YourObserver.com/home-delivery CALL: 941-366-3468

*Delivery is only available in the Esplanade, Indigo and Mallory Park at this time. We will be expanding to other neighborhoods throughout the year.

The Observer remains FREE and available at retail locations throughout East Manatee. The convenience fee is to have the newspaper delivered to your home each week.

LOCAL NEWS. A Local Difference.

Eric Garwood MANAGING EDITOR

Hometown: Melbourne, Florida Currently Living: Sarasota, Florida Alma mater: University of South Florida Observer Employee: Five Years What you do when you are not working?

My wife and I enjoy exploring parks, traveling and walking.

Connect: egarwood@yourobserver.com

There’s so much to enjoy here in Sarasota.

I’ve lived in several regions of Florida, and Sarasota has more to offer than any of them. I’m so happy to be part of the Observer team, telling the stories of the people and events that take place here.

JOIN THE NEIGHBORHOOD //

31

Do you live in the Esplanade, Indigo or Mallory Park?*

ART SHOW Runs 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day at Palm Aire Country Club, 5601 Country Club Way, Sarasota. The Art Association of Palm Aire hosts its annual Art Show. The show includes painting, photography, ceramics, glass work, sculptures, jewelry and fabric arts. The association presents a scholarship to a Ringling College student. For more information, call 355-9733.

RANCH NIGHT WEDNESDAYS Runs from 6-9 p.m. at 1561 Lakefront Drive, Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch. Ranch Night Wednesdays is a free event that includes food trucks, live music, a market, an outdoor bar and a cornhole league.

For information, go to MyLWR.com.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

373196-1

FRIDAY, FEB. 11 TO SUNDAY, MARCH 6

YOUR CALENDAR

Street. Admission is free. For more information, go to MainStreetMarketLWR.com.

BEST BET

|

Support independent local journalism today at YourObserver.com/newsies

32

WEATHER

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

FORECAST THURSDAY, FEB. 10 High: 69 Low: 50 Chance of rain: 4%

FRIDAY, FEB. 11 High: 70 Low: 54 Chance of rain: 5%

SUNRISE / SUNSET Sunrise

Sunset

Thursday, Feb. 10

7:10a

6:18p

Friday, Feb. 11

7:10a

6:19p

Saturday, Feb. 12

7:09a

6:19p

Sunday, Feb. 13

7:08a

6:20p

Monday, Feb. 14

7:07a

6:21p

Tuesday, Feb. 15

7:07a

6:22p

Wednesday, Feb. 16

7:06a

6:22p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, FEB. 12 High: 74 Low: 59 Chance of rain: 19%

SUNDAY, FEB. 13

Gordon Silver captured this gecko sunbathing on a palm tree in Del Webb of Lakewood Ranch.

High: 68 Low: 48 Chance of rain: 51%

March 10 March 18 March 24 March 31 First Full Last New

RAINFALL Monday, Jan. 31

0

Tuesday, Feb. 1

0

Wednesday, Feb. 2

0

Thursday, Feb. 3

0

Friday, Feb. 4

0

Saturday, Feb. 5

0

Sunday, Feb. 6

0

*Rainfall totals from Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport

Submit your photos at YourObserver.com/Weather. All submissions will be entered for the 2021-22 Weather and Nature photo contest. In February 2022, you will vote for your favorite photo, and the submission with the most votes will win a $500 gift card.

YEAR TO DATE: 2022 0.44 in.

2021 1.57 in.

MONTH TO DATE: 2022 0 in.

2021 0.87 in.

MANASOTA FLOORING INC 941.493.7441 | www.manasotaonline.com

crossword

celebrity cipher

WALK AROUND THE BLOCK by Paul Coulter. Edited by Amanda Rafkin 56 Mine extractions 58 Not “with it” 60 Duel-purpose equipment?

61 Gets on DOWN 62 Bring together 1 “___ the season ...”

67 Burn a little 2 As many as 68 Little kids 3 On a ___ (just for fun) 69 Singer India.___ 4 Bad day for Caesar 70 “Go ahead!”

5 Person living the high 71 French film award hidlife? den in “chances are” 6 Brewing ingredient 72 “Ad ___” (2019 film) 7 Boxer dubbed “The 73 “The Matrix ResurrecGreatest” tions” genre 8 Bedside light 74 Reduce by cutting 9 Hot water, metaphori75 Snooped cally 76 Dutch cheese 10 Dutch beer 77 Take in or let out 11 Narrow valley 78 Subtly suggested 12 Beam of sunlight 80 In the center of 13 Not the same 81 Org. that inspects air 14 Its capital is Minsk bags?

15 Fender flaw 83 Blueprint detail, for 16 The “A” of BART short 17 Curiosity rover’s 87 Thurman who played destination Poison Ivy 19 Many kilt wearers 90 “Bravo!”

24 Podcast interviewer 91 Away, in a way 26 Quaint stopovers 92 Egg-based paint 29 Words before a kiss 93 Slam-dancing spot 34 Sound heard through a 95 Fail to articulate stethoscope 96 Small amount 35 Fine-tunes 97 Classic theater name 36 Constantly irritate 99 Does as a group?

37 Holey shoe 100 Bumpy amphibians 38 Like sundial numerals 104 Skater Rippon 39 Artist Yoko 105 Brain section 41 “Still awake?”

106 In need of directions 42 Salsa and guacamole, 107 With proficiency e.g.

108 “Little piggies” 43 LGBTQ+ activist 109 Talk back to George 110 Jason’s ship 44 Bean products?

111 Flirty eye gesture 45 “Ya think?!”

112 Joint with a cap 48 ___ and cheese 114 Dallas NBAer 52 Tennis champ Ste116 Letter before omega phens 117 Football scores (Abbr.)

53 Per item 54 Give the cold shoulder to 55 Capital near a fjord

122 Ran into 123 Group of quail 124 Desert refuge 125 Takes a hit

©2022 Universal Uclick

ACROSS

32 Under-cover location?

33 Coffee vessel 1 Bulb bloom 34 San Francisco gaybor6 Mediterranean island hood (last 4 letters ...) nation 40 Biden’s secretary of 11 Food, informally defense (... + first 2) 15 Beaver’s construction 46 Squirrel away 18 Apple tablet software 47 “I’m treating!”

20 It’s a real eye-opener 49 Cooking liquids 21 Narrow road 50 Big fuss 22 Prohibition, e.g.

51 “Do ___ others ...”

23 Long rides? (See the last 3 letters of this clue’s 52 Country with a Taualuga dance answer ...)

25 Certain makeup pencil 54 Chicken noodle, e.g. (... + the first 2 of this one) 56 Gave the thumbs-up 57 “My fault!” (last 2 let27 “Let’s hear it!” ters ...)

28 Add 30 Airline with a kangaroo 59 Agency measuring the U.S. population (... + logo 31 Non-earthlings (Abbr.) first 2) 63 L.A. winter hours

371152-1

941.748.4679 | Venice

64 “High” time?

65 Orange juice option 66 About an hour before two 67 Get dry, like lips 68 ‘90s exercise trend 70 Speaker’s platform 71 Redeem, like chips 74 Opening for sweat 75 Dessert wine 76 Practical joke 79 Houdini, e.g. (last 2 letters ...)

82 Go it alone (... + first 4) 84 Use a swizzle stick 85 Artistic inspiration 86 Spades and hearts, e.g.

88 Mini-golf stroke 89 Response to “Speak!”

90 Enter 92 Not wild

93 Euripides tragedy 94 A life’s purpose (last 3 letters ...)

98 Online shopping button (... + first 2) 101 Texter’s chuckle 102 Archer’s asset 103 Lip balm brand 104 Indirectly refer (to) 107 Turn into a musical, say 109 Seattle NFL player 113 Part of a frame that you pass through (last 3 letters ...)

115 Material spotted on a runway? (... + first 2) 118 Tummy muscles 119 Racetrack shape 120 Lock of hair 121 Conversed in ASL

By Luis Campos Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present.

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“SDJU HMBBYGT EGSEJG ADTGBLRMDT USA NMD CG HYLGBMCJG MDT PMEEU MR RPG LMHG RYHG.”

– NPBYL BSNZ

“GZF TGFYK TGZYK DP DPNNPF JX UGFP XGYYGTPK OPF PBWURYP. JN JV KJUJEJVOPK TJNO OPF RWVVJEI.” – KWE FWNOPF GE DPNNH TOJNP

“JB WOO EPH DBBJ TBK GWY, VT WOO EPH SHWYX WNWFOWVOH, FY WOO EPH CWTX TBK GWY, FY WOO EPH ROWGHX TBK GWY.” © 2022 NEA, Inc.

– SFW ZWIIBC

Puzzle Three Clue: N equals V

941.355.8437 | Bradenton

Puzzle Two Clue: B equals X

Sarasota

KITCHENS, BATHROOMS, BEDROOMS & MORE

Puzzle One Clue: Z equals K

HARDWOOD

sudoku Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.

©2022 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

2-10-22

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

RED PAGES INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888

redpages@yourobserver.com • yourobserver.com/redpages DEADLINES: Classifieds - Monday at Noon

jobs

The East County Observer reserves the right to classify and edit copy, or to reject or cancel an advertisement at any time. Corrections after first insertion only. *All ads are subject to the approval of the Publisher. *It is the responsibility of the party placing any ad for publication in the East County Observer to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance with towncodes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property Notice: All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis..

Garage/ Moving/ Estate Sales

BUY & SELL HERE! YourObserver.com/RedPages

Bicycle 26" Huffy women's Cruiser. Like new $50.00 315-720-7966 CLUB CHAIR drexel heritage oversized, pale red color and matching ottoman $75 941-351-3166 COFFEE TABLE 40” x 40” x 18” solid wood, contemporary brown tones. $75. 941-355-9057.

KENMORE REFRIGERATOR 4.9 cu.ft. 33 3/4"H 21 3/8"W $60.

Westbend Microwave 900W 9.9 cu ft $45 941-807-6027 LADIES BLUE denim blazer style jacket, embordered and sequin trim M/L, $15. 941-755-6864 NEW EMPORIA Armani Men's watch in original box. $100.

RED SKELTON Lithograph painting "Rodeo Clown". $100.

941/776-0034 OLD LICENSE plates, California, Hawaii, Kentucky, Colorado, Arizona. Must take all! $3 each 949-278-2375 OPTIMUS SPEAKERS $35 for pair, Glenburn turntable $50, RCA DPS audio-receiver $40 or OBO call before 7pm/no texts 941-355-2870 RATTAN LOUNGER Large solid with Original Cushion $80 (941) 462-5599 SAMSUNG HP-D 5500 3D home theatre plus blu-ray, 4 speaker stands, 3 D glasses. $199 941)758-4646 TWO, 16X10" STEREO SPEAKERS. $20.00.

941-756-4656

YourObserver.com/RedPages

CASH FOR YOUR CAR We come to you!

Ho Ho Buys cars.

941-270-4400.

General Merchandise

STORAGE FACILITY Boat/ RV/ Trailer. Secure facility, low monthly rentals, Clark Rd area.

941809-3660, 941-809-3662.

941-955-4888

BRIGGS & STRATTON gas generator, 5250 running watts with accessories, cord/cable. $5000. 941-351-7502 LEESON ADJUSTABLE speed control for motor NEW in box $300. 941-807-6027

Merchandise Wanted SENIOR LOOKING to purchase precious metals, diamonds, time pieces, coins, jewelry, antique and estate jewelry, and collectors plates. Personal and confidential. Please call Marc: 941-321-0707.

Pets GULF BREEZE HAVANESE Have puppies for sale. Ready for a forever home, vaccinations up to date. Call for updated pictures.

941-451-9410

Sporting Goods

Beach’ N Rides Electric Bike Shop eBike Sales and Rentals Ride easy on an eBike with as much exercise or assistance as you want. Leave traffic and parking problems behind!

13 models available.

Daily and weekly rentals available We also repair other Brands Open 10 to 5 daily except Sundays and holidays 12208 Cortez Road, Cortez, FL

Luxurious Lake Club 4 Bed 4 Bath Built in 2019 Lakefront Lakewood Ranch $2,500,000 Sorrento Shores Waterfront 3 Bed 2 Bath Fantastic Views, New Dock $995,000 Stroll to Siesta Key Beach 4 Bed 2 Bath Heated Pool, 2 Car Garage $799,000 Longboat Key Beach House: on Canal, 2BED-2BATH, Dock.

Owner/agent $530,000.

Call for coming soon listings.

15% DISCOUNT FOR 4-WEEK RUN Color background: $ 5 per week Ad border: as low as $3 per week PLACE YOUR AD: Call: 941-955-4888 Fax: 941-362-4808 Email: RedPages@YourObserver.com Online: YourObserver.com/Red Pages

GARAGE SALE

Buy or Sell with Brooke O’Malley as your Realtor, and CLUB REALTY will Pay your title insurance.

Call 941-726-2677.

SELL YOUR STUFF HERE!

CALL 941-955-4888

YourObserver.com/RedPages

HIRING NOW: Cooks $15 & Dishwashers $13 Negotiable w/exp.

FT, PT, all shifts. FT benefits: 401k, vision, dental, PTO. Call 941-208-250 Bethany@christianretreat.org

WE BUY cars. top $$ paid for your vehicles.

Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

SHIP YOUR car, truck or SUV anywhere in the United States.

Great rates, fast quotes. Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

SELL IT FAST HERE! POST YOUR AD WITH EASE YourObserver.com/RedPages

Cleaning

CLAUDIA C. Cleaning Services.

Experienced, dependable, and ready to begin!

Residential.

Excellent references.

941-773-6895.

Painting

Real Estate Wanted Single Male wants to rent small office with efficency. In Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Bradenton, North Port, or around Sarasota.

Contact Tom 678-755-3804 tomlarsen559@gmail.com

This week’s Crossword answers

Auto Transport

www.braziliancleaningbymk.com

PLACE YOUR AD ONLINE: YourObserver.com/RedPages

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

PERSONAL CARE GIVER- Private care: Meal preparation, errands, shopping, and more.

Affordable hourly rates, available weekdays, weekends, and holidays.

Minimal shift 5 hours can also provide overnight care.

Temporary or long term care.

Over 10+ years experience.

References available. No new faces, one consistent caregiver.

COVID Negative.

Call Kati: 941-536-7706.

BRAZILIAN CLEANING Service

by Maria. Residential. Meticulous Cleaning. Excellent References.

Free Estimates. Reliable. Lic./Ins. 941-400-3342.

941-955-4888

Advertise as low as $17.50 per week!

TREASURES FOUND HERE!

HELP WANTED Cooks $15 and Dishwashers $13 negotiable w/experience. FT, PT, all shifts. FT benefits include: 401k, vision, dental, PTO Call 941-746-2882 ext 996, press 2 https://www.christianretreat.org

First 15 words ................... $ 17.50 per week Each Add’l word .........50¢

SELL YOUR STUFF FAST!

941-251-7916, Ext 1

Homes for Sale

RED PAGES AD RATES

Autos Wanted

You’re only cheating yourself.

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.

Call 941-955-4888 Or Email ad to: classified@yourobserver.com (Please provide your name and address) Or Online at: www.yourobserver.com Or mail to: The Observer Group 1970 Main St. - 3rd Floor Sarasota, Fl 34236

Help Wanted

Adult Care Services

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.

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “Only married people understand you can be miserable and happy at the same time.”

Chris Rock Puzzle Two Solution: “Our world would be better if more followed her example. It is diminished with her passing.”

Dan Rather on Betty White Puzzle Three Solution: “Do all the good you can, by all the means available, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can.”

Mia Farrow

This week’s Sudoku answers

©2022 Universal Uclick

TO ADVERTISE CALL 941-955-4888 OR VISIT YOUROBSERVER.COM/REDPAGES

©2022 NEA, Inc.

Items Under $200

auto

FIND BUYERS AND SELLERS HERE!

peekers’ place

stuff

STONEYBROOK COMMUNITY Garage Sale Saturday, February 19, 2022, 8:00am - 1:00pm.

8010 Stone Harbour Loop (NO EARLY ENTRIES)

real estate

Service Directory - Friday at 3PM • PAYMENT: Cash, Check or Credit Card

home services

Made for where you live. Here!

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

Aluminum

Computer

Health

GET YOUR LIFE BACK!

373065

Pegatronics Computer Instruction and Repair It’s Easier Than You Think!

Hardware Repair Virus / Malware Cleanup Software & Printer Install New Computer Setups New Purchase Consults Seniors & Beginners

“Specializing inin6” Gutters” “Specializing 6” Seamless Seamless Gutters”

Dustin Yoder

Dustin Owner Yoder/ Operator

FREE CONSULTATION 941.358.2224

Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression provides safe, gentle & effective relief for

374144

941-735-3362

YoderAluminum.com

Concrete

Auto Service

DR. DAVID CIFRA, DC

SIDEWALKS • DRIVEWAYS #1 in IR REPA Crack 5%

FAST • EASY • SAFE

9 EPLACE Don’t R Concrete d o of Go only 5% when cked! is cra

WE COME TO YOU 5-Star Rated

University Health Park 2415 University Parkway Bldg. 3, Suite 216 Sarasota, FL 34243

BUZ CORP D/B/A

CONCRETE FUSION

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.com

The Only Thing You Have To Lose ... Is The Pain!!

Home Services

Call Bobby • FREE Estimates 319-693-8800 or 941-374-7670

374672

374135

HoHoBuysCars.com

Board Certified in the specialty of non-surgical spinal decompression

CRACK REPAIR

SELL YOUR CAR! 941.270.4400

Give Us a Call - We Can Help

Pegatronics.com

941.650.9790 941.650.9790 YoderAluminum.com

Owner /Insured Operator Insured

Do You Have Neck or Low Back Pain?

Do You Want To Avoid Surgery?

Learn Computer Basics Phones/Tablet Help Apple & Microsoft Problems Solved On-Site and Off Much More! Call Today!

Doors

Beauty

Are You Having Dryer Difficulties?

• Dryer hot but clothes still wet after (1) drying cycle?

• Dryer gets hot to the touch or doesn’t heat up at all?

Sliding Glass Door Repair

Take a simple test to see if your vent is clogged. Unhook your dryer vent & compare drying time.

Residential

“FIX IT - DON’T REPLACE” 424-333-0713 | rockstarmobilehair@gmail.com www.rockstarmobilehairsalon.com

Patio Furniture Repairs.com

Servicing LWR, Parrish and NE Bradenton

Furniture Sales & Repairs Cushions • Slings • Re-powdercoating

Kitchen/Bath Remodeling

373059

941-504-0903

FREE PICKUP / DELIVERY • FREE ONSITE QUOTES

Custom Granite Services, llc

Ron Chapman Home Service Interior/Exterior Painting Dryer Vent Cleaning • Gutter Cleaning

GROW

Christo’s Clock Repair

GRAB BARS

Advertise as low as $40 per week.

“IF IT DOESN’T TIC, TOC TO ME.”

CJ COOLEY OWNER/OPERATOR CALL BEFOREYOU YOU FALL CALL BEFORE FALL

YOUR BUSINESS

4630 5TH ST W BRADENTON

CustomGraniteServicesLLC@gmail.com

374692

cell: 941.250.1505 • FREE Estimates

941-400-4912

374145

374142

Handyman

COMPLETE INSTALLATION PACKAGE

$

CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT

374143

374689

IRRIGATION (941) 725-8100 REPAIR edsrainmakerirrigation@gmail.com MAINTENANCE Insured

Furniture Repair

Cleaning

941-773-0875 • 941-932-5505

235

$ 235

INCLUDES 2 MOEN STAINLESS STEEL ANTI SLIP CONCEALED SCREW GRAB BARS (16” & 24”)

Call to reserve your ad space: 941-955-4888 YourObserver.com/RedPages

Don Christo, Sr., Horologist

941.966.0333

Doors

LIFETIME GUARANTEE • LICENSED • BONDED • INSURED COVERAGE AREA: LAKEWOOD RANCH TO S. VENICE

GLENN KROECKER

954-1878 (cell) 780-3346 374690

Window Repairs • Sliding Glass Door Repairs Sliding Glass Door Deadbolts

Cleaned - Regrouted - Caulked - Sealed

374146

FREE IN-HOM ESTIMATEE S

Licensed & Insured

SHOWER & BATH MAKEOVERS

Call us today! 941.628.8579 www.ezslider.com

DRGRABBARS.COM

THE GRAB BAR GUY

DON’T let your PATIO DOORS be a DRAG or your WINDOWS be a PANE!!

374688

Commercial

ED’S RAIN MAKER IRRIGATION

374673

New Deluxe Rollers Will Make Your Doors Roll Better Than Ever Call Mark 928-2263 proslidingglassdoorrepair.com

AMANDA

Clock Repair

941-705-5468 Irrigation

373041

SERVING YOU IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME

373439

|

373067

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

374691 364556

34

Call John 941.377.2940

Free Estimates • Sarasota Resident Since 1974

www.showerandbathsarasota.com Find anything in the RED PAGES | 941-955-4888

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

Landscaping & Lawn

Power Washing Pressure Washing

GARDENS BY ALLISON

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

|

Roofing Pressure Washing

No Job is too Small!

Kenneth Fuhlman Inc. Building & Roofing Contractor

• Aluminum, Vinyl, & Wood Soffit & Fascia Repair & Installation • Roofing Repair & Installation • Metal Roofing & Tile Roof Repair Specialists

Honesty, Integrity and Pride • Roofs • Pool Cages • Decks • Driveways

Deck/Paver Sealing• •Decks Gutter• Driveways Cleaning ••Roofs • Pool Cages AndSealing Much•More!

• Deck/Paver And Much More

Allison J. Abizaid, M.A.

AFTER

Serving Sarasota/Manatee Area Since 2004

Personal Gardening Services | Designer

BEFORE

941.400.0431

373061

gbyallison@yahoo.com gardensbyallison.com

941-544-1066

941-626-3194

Licensed & Insured CCC - 058059 CBC - 1253936

| scaperotta@aol.com

Italian American Owned

NEED HELP?

Painting

UNIQUE PAINTING & PRESSURE WASHING SERVICES

373441

Design • Garden Beds Landscape • Courtyards Clean-Up • Makeovers Weeds • Trimming

374694

35

Screening

Find business and service professionals in the Red Pages.

To advertise: 941-955-4888

Complete Interior & Exterior Painting

Homes - Driveways - Sidewalks - Tile & Shingle Roofs - Pool Cages & Decks

Rescreening & Repairs

374148

FREE ESTIMATES - Call Joel, Owner 30 Years Exp. Cell 619-405-7650 Home/Office 941-758-4840

373444

Personal Services

Eldridge Re-Screen

Power Washing $100 COUPON

PRESSURE WASHING

House Washing, Roofs, Screen Cages, Pavers, Driveways and Walkways.

941-CLEAN IT 2 5 3 - 2 6 4 8 FREE INSTANT ESTIMATES when you Call RICK for SCHEDULING

“No Job Too Small”

$100 COUPON

$100 COUPON

BOOST YOUR BUSINESS

Manufacture and workmanship

Insured

Roofing

Bisson Roofing Inc.

CALL 941-955-4888

found here.

Find a place where you can visit listings, not just imagine them.

RED PAGES Made for where you live. Here!

Call 941-955-4888 or visit YourObserver.com/redpages

25

UP TO

STANDARD WINDOWS

5

$

www.bissonroofing.com

YOUR HOME

Form Serving Longboat Key Since 2005

ows

140

$

SPECIAL 00

941 - 748 - 7400 Owner Supervises Every Job

Lic./Ins.

w & Pressure Cl indo345-5264 eani et W(941) s n ng wn as Sunrise Win o n k Su y l r e d

INCLUDING SCREENS, TRACKS, MIRRORS & FANS

Specializing in Reroofs and Repairs FREE Estimates • 30 Years Experience RC0067420 • Lic. & Ins.

Warranties

Res./Com.

941-270-1561

Showcase your products or services each week in the Red Pages.

374674

Windows

$100 COUPON

RED PAGES

Licensed

Doors and more!

373443

SOFT WASH

specialty screens / screw replacement / paint

374696

373769

WE ARE THE SOFT WASH PRESSURE WASHING PROS

$100 COUPON

$100 COUPON $100 COUPON

$100 COUPON $100 COUPON

$100 COUPON

941-345-5264

senior citizen discount. www.sunsetwindowcleaningsrq.com

Purified water window cleaning available!!

Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES | 941- 284 - 5880

374675

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

Visit or call us for a private consultation PremierSothebysRealty.com L I ST W I T H U STO DAY.C O M

For those who seek an exceptional life.

Nothing Compares.

SILVER OAK

SARASOTA 3736 Meridale Road Joel Schemmel

$2,375,000 941.962.5867

ENGLEWOOD $12,000,000 941.587.4894

7108 Trout Lane Amee Sams & Beth Sargent

SARASOTA POLO CLUB 8075 Whiskey Pond Lane Donna Soda

5308 Hunt Club Way Vittoria Rutigliano

$5,999,999 941.447.1466

PRESTANCIA

$3,499,999 941.961.5857

3944 Losillias Drive Joel Schemmel & Sharon Chiodi

BOCA ROYALE $2,995,000 941.587.4894

40 Grande Fairway Bob Linthicum

$1,550,900 941.228.9206

The Florida Gulf Coast Luxury Leader

No.2

LAKEWOOD RANCH 6963 Westchester Circle Laura Stavola

COBBLESTONE PALMER RANCH $2,575,000 941.447.4875

8737 Bellussi Drive Christine Mazur

$499,000 941.224.4824

8069 Camminare Drive Nancy Endara & Peter Laughlin

$700,000 941.374.4015

S o t h e by ’ s I n t e r n a t i o n a l R e a l t y ® A f f i l i a t e I n Th e W o r l d

No.19

I n S a l e s Vo l u m e I n Th e N a t i o n R I S M e d i a P o w e r B r o ke r R e p o r t

INDIGO 4226 Midnight Blue Run Rebecca Zimmerman

VILLAGEWALK $450,000 941.323.1700

No. 21

I n S a l e s Vo l u m e I n Th e N a t i o n R E A L Tr e n d s Fi v e H u n d r e d

SARASOTA 3108 Windrush Bourne Fernando Viteri

$349,000 941.400.7676

View a ll ava ila ble list ings

5 0 % R E S E R V E D I N F I R S T 3 0 D AY S !

MODERN URBAN RESIDENCES

Centered in one of downtown Sarasota’s hippest neighborhoods, the Rosemary District, Zahrada 2 will encompass 18 residences and four retail/office spaces.

Priced from $490,725, these elevated units boast a stylish, modern exterior and a distinctive architectural design — creating the perfect envelope for ultimate function and sophistication.

1558 4th Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941.920.1500 | ZahradaSarasota.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. Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate.

SARASOTA - DOWNTOWN | 941.364.4000

888.870.7667

VENICE | 941.412.3323 LAKEWOOD RANCH | 941.907.9541 LONGBOAT KEY | 941.383.2500 RENTALS | 941.203.3433

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