East County Observer 2.11.21

E A ST COUNTY

Observer Lakewood Ranch’s weekly newspaper since 1998

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

Paddling on the Ranch.

PAGE 4B

•

FREE THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

VOLUME 23, NO. 14

YOUR TOWN

Schools’ safety layers increase Although COVID-19 numbers are up districtwide, Manatee officials say their environmental safety continues to improve. PAGE 3A

Courtesy photo

Seeing double Brian Walther, a B.D. Gullett Elementary physical education teacher, was seeing double at the school Jan. 28.

On Dress as Your Favorite Teacher Day, first grader Alex Stark (above with Walther) wore a shirt with Walther’s favorite NFL team, grabbed a hat and sunglasses, and became his favorite teacher for the day.

“He loves Coach Walther because all of the games they play in P.E. are super fun, and Alex loves sports,” said Jackie Stark, Alex’s mom.

A SHOT TO GIVE BACK Vaccination site workers stepped forward to help.

SEE PAGE 8A

Photo courtesy of Florida Department of Health

Palm Aire resident Thomas Morgan joined the Manasota Medical Reserve Corps in 2020, shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic took hold of Florida. He is one of the many workers who have made the vaccination site possible at Tom Bennett Park in East County.

Brendan Lavell

East County love bloomed in Africa

A Super season Tara’s Neal Alfano, 41, was born and raised in Tampa, where he became a Buccaneers fan. He had season tickets from 2004 to 2013, which he received from his grandfather Cassius Eiseman, who had them since the team’s inception in 1976.

Alfano (above) said he went to Tampa to soak in the pregame atmosphere, adding that it was exciting to finally feel the Super Bowl experience as a fully grown adult.

“I sat through a lot of three-win seasons, baking in the hot sun to make things worse,” Alfano said. “This is great for the town.”

Liz Ramos

Mary and Don Rooker-Smith reminisce over their family vacations to Sand Island Beach in Kenya with their four daughters and seven grandchildren.

Stone River Retirement Community’s Mary and Don Rooker-Smith say a Valentine’s card sparked 61 years of marriage.

SEE PAGE 1B

A+E

Artist offers different perspective.

SEE PAGE 18A

2A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

County might need new vaccination site Manatee County public safety director says vacant facilities of 50,000 square feet or more would be ideal.

BRENDAN LAVELL STAFF WRITER

Bright

Photo courtesy of the Department of Health

STEADY GOING File photo

the setup can be kept in place overnight.

Manatee County began vaccinating its more than 100,000 seniors 65 and older in late December and has been proceeding a few thousand a week. Saur asks Manatee County residents to continue to have patience while seniors and health care workers continue to receive the first doses of the vaccine.

Saur said the county is committed to vaccinating seniors 65 and older who are registered in the vaccination standby pool

and lively

Vibrant and fun pieces add a touch of nature to your living space.

Charming

MANATEE COUNTY VACCINATION UPDATE First vaccination: Dec. 22 Vaccinated: 32,842 (as of Feb. 7) People registered: About 186,500 (as of Feb. 8)

Above: Manatee County Director of Public Safety Jacob Saur says he expects to be vaccinating seniors and health care workers for “at least a couple more months.”

Right: Dorian Speaker, who works facilities management at DOH-Manatee, greets visitors to the COVID-19 vaccination drive-thru Jan. 27 at Tom Bennett Park.

details

Great look for your dining space.

Includes table, 2 chairs & bench.

Stores Hours: Mon-Sat 9-9, Sun 11-6

unless Gov. Ron DeSantis orders county governments to make vaccines available to other groups of people. Saur said it will be up to DeSantis to decide who is next in line to receive vaccines, though he guesses it could be law enforcement and essential workers.

On Feb. 9, Manatee County announced 18 pharmacies in the county will begin distributing COVID-19 vaccines as soon as Feb. 12.

Seventeen Publix stores and one Winn-Dixie will be allotted 384 vaccine doses each per week

for a total of 6,912, Saur said, in addition to the doses administered in the county by the Florida Department of Health.

Pharmacies can vaccinate only Florida residents age 65 or older and health care workers providing local health services, per an executive order from DeSantis. Registration is completed through Publix or Winn-Dixie’s websites and is separate from the county’s vaccination standby pool.

The state determines which

54999

Gorgeous

59999

Continuous

$

SOFA

$

4-PC

SOUTH SARASOTA 5252 S. Tamiami Trail (at Phillippi Creek) 941-260-9601

NORTH SARASOTA 4027 N Washington Blvd (Hwy 301) 941-351-8600

and modern

Queen headboard, footboard, rails, dresser and mirror.

support

Beautyrest® Daydream Plush Queen Mattress.

BRADENTON 1100 Cortez Rd W (corner US Hwy 41) 941-749-6069

ELLENTON 5814 18th Street East (across Premium Outlets) 941-479-7900

59999

$

39999

$

VENICE 550 S Seaboard Ave (US Hwy 41 Bypass) 941-485-3211

PORT CHARLOTTE 1241 El Jobean Rd (across Sam’s) 941-764-8700

*For financing for 48 months a minimum purchase of $3000 or more is required to qualify. For financing of 12 months a minimum purchase of $300 or more is required to qualify. Interest will be charged to your account from the promotional purchase date. Equal Monthly Payments are required. Offer applies to only single-receipt qualifying purchases. No interest will be charged on promo purchase and equal monthly payments are required equal to initial promo purchase amount divided equally by the number of months in promo period until promo is paid in full. The equal monthly payment will be rounded to the next highest whole dollar and may be higher than the minimum payment that would be required if the purchase was a non-promotional purchase. Regular account terms apply to non-promotional purchases. For new accounts: Purchase APR is 29.99%; Minimum Interest Charge is $2. Existing cardholders should see their credit card agreement for their applicable terms. Subject to credit approval. Furniture must be delivered within 90 days for all financing offers. All prices include Hot Buys or Coupon savings. Terms of promotions Previous purchase excluded, cannot be combined with any other promotion or discount. Promotion offers exclude Hot Buys, floor models or clearance items, sales tax, furniture protection plans, warranty, delivery, or service charge. **Next Day Delivery or Pick Up during Covid pertains to in-stock merchandise. All items in the ad are in stock now or available within a week, while supplies last.

347705-1

With Manatee County seniors expected to remain the priority group for COVID-19 vaccinations until they all are covered, the question concerning other age groups might not be so much when but where.

The mass vaccinations will continue to be delivered at Tom Bennett Park in East County, but Jacob Saur, the director of public safety for Manatee County, noted that a change in weather could cause a change in venues.

Saur said outdoor distribution sites will not be viable once the weather includes constant rain, heat and the potential for a hurricane. Therefore, Manatee County’s Emergency Management Division has begun working with the county’s Property Management Department to find indoor, air-conditioned and vacant facilities of at least 50,000 square feet that could be used for mass vaccinations.

Saur suggested that such locations as abandoned grocery stores or large storage areas might be suitable. He also said indoor vaccination sites are easier to operate than outdoor ones because equipment and other aspects of

counties can begin partnering with Publix based on the efficiency of each county in distributing vaccines as well as size, Saur said.

The county will continue to vaccinate as many as it can, but an increase in vaccinations distributed at pharmacies should help in a number of ways.

It will decrease the number of people who are relying solely on the county’s standby pool. It will allow people to receive vaccines closer to their own communities, which might be an attractive alternative to those who don’t want to drive or can’t drive to the mass vaccination sites.

“Sometimes, residents are very familiar with their pharmacies, and they’re very familiar with the things that they interact with every day,” Saur said. “Once the vaccine becomes more readily available, I think more residents, especially the elderly, the underserved populations, African Americans, they’ll feel more comfortable in their community getting vaccines.”

Saur said the county is using its Neighborhood Services Department to provide outreach and help people register for the standby pool in community centers, youth centers, churches and similar places in communities where vaccine hesitancy is a more frequent issue.

Eventually, mobile units could be used to help vaccinate in some communities, but Saur said that would take a substantial increase in the supply.

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

More students, extra effort Although COVID-19 numbers are up districtwide, school district officials say their environmental safety continues to improve.

LIZ RAMOS STAFF WRITER

W

ith School District of Manatee County campuses more than threequarters full, the hallways are bustling once

again.

Although that would seem to make for questionable conditions when it comes to stopping the spread of COVID-19, the district continues to add layers of safety that make the campus as safe as possible.

Diann Minero, the senior school secretary at Braden River Middle School, has taken every precaution she can to reduce her risk of getting COVID-19. She wears a face mask, maintains social distancing and limits her interactions with others when possible.

So when Minero, who is 73, received an email from the school district about her ability to receive a COVID-19 vaccination, she jumped at the opportunity.

Minero walked into the Manatee Elementary School-based health clinic for her 11 a.m. appointment Feb. 2. After getting checked in, she sat patiently for it to be her turn.

“I have a healthy fear of COVID-19 at my age, and I have a fear of being hospitalized,” Minero said. “Luckily, I’m normally very healthy. … [The vaccine] is an added layer of protection.”

The partnership between the school district and MCR Health to provide vaccines to about 300 employees who are at least 65 years old is part of the continued efforts the district has put into place to try to keep students and staff members safe.

With more students on campus full time since schools returned from winter break Jan. 6, Minero said the vaccine is a sign of hope.

“I’m hoping to go back to a new normal, whatever it’s supposed to be,” Minero said.

Miriam Ortiz, a 66-year-old paraprofessional at Dr. Mona Jain Middle School, almost didn’t get the vaccine through the district and MCR Health’s partnership because she thought she was taking enough precautions, and her name was on the Sarasota County vaccine waiting list.

Her husband, Rich Berger, who is high risk, encouraged her to

take advantage of the opportunity to get a vaccine.

“He said, ‘Look, you should go because you’re doing this for both of us,’” Ortiz said.

Students and staff are continuing to abide by multiple health and safety precautions at school including wearing a mask, maintaining social distancing, washing hands frequently, cleaning high-touch surfaces and going down hallways one way.

The Manatee County Department of Health has been sharing the latest Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines related to schools with the School District of Manatee County, so the district and the School Board of Manatee County could make the most informed decisions on policies and practices to ensure students’ and employees’ safety.

“The preventative measures are the best way to prevent the spread of the disease at this time,” said Dr. Jennifer Bencie, the chief health officer for the Manatee County Department of Health.

Charlie Kennedy, a school board member, was hesitant to open schools back in August because he worried about having so many students and employees on campus at once.

After visiting schools and seeing the health and safety protocols in action, Kennedy said the year is going as well as can be expected.

“The mask policy has been crucial for us being able to keep schools open,” Kennedy said. “I was worried last August about opening schools, but as we have learned more, not just the school district but as all of us have learned more, we know what works and what doesn’t.”

The district has not had to close any schools or part of any schools as a result of an outbreak since school began Aug. 17, 2020.

From August through December, East County schools had a total of 136 confirmed cases. In January, East County schools had 49 confirmed cases. But 84% of the students were back on campus after winter break.

The Manatee County Department of Health helped the district establish a District Operations Center that focuses on contact tracing when there is a confirmed case on campus.

PARENTS’ PICKS The School District of Manatee County gave parents the opportunity to choose between their students being on campus full time or to do e-learning at home starting in January. The hybrid option is still available for families in some charter schools Modality

Percent of students Percent of students in January 2021 in August 2020

On campus full time

84%

E-learning

15% 29%

Hybrid

1%

48% 23%

Liz Ramos

Registered nurse Debbie Bottiger prepares a Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for a School District of Manatee County employee. The district worked with MCR Health to provide about 300 vaccines to district employees who were at least 65.

COVID-19’S SCHOOLS IMPACT IN JANUARY East County schools reported these COVID-19 cases in January.

School

Confirmed Employees Students People cases positive positive quarantined

Bashaw Elementary

8

3

5

116

Braden River Elementary

1

Freedom Elementary

2

0

1

18

0

2

16

Gullett Elementary

3

1

2

31

McNeal Elementary

0

0

0

0

Myakka City Elementary

0

0

0

0

Tara Elementary

3

0

3

28

Willis Elementary

2

0

2

22

Witt Elementary

0

0

0

0

Braden River Middle

2

0

2

18

Haile Middle

0

0

0

0

Mona Jain Middle

4

1

3

89

Nolan Middle

7

0

7

177

13

0

13

179

4

0

4

44

Braden River High Lakewood Ranch High TOTAL

49

Although there are more students on campus, Kevin Chapman, the director of strategic planning and district initiatives for the school district, said contact tracing hasn’t become more difficult because students can be tracked through the seating charts in each class and through class schedules.

There might be more students and staff being sent home to quarantine as a result of more students being on campus, but requiring the students or staff to quarantine is a safety measure, Chapman said.

“We’ve seen a very small number of students become positive when they’re in quarantine,” Chapman said. “A vast majority of the cases we see in our schools come from outside the school, meaning a staff or a student became COVID-19 positive from outside our school system.”

Bencie said that although people are starting to get vaccinated, continuing to enforce health and safety measures is crucial.

“Anyone who is vaccinated should continue to practice the prevention measures as a way of ensuring spread of the disease is minimized,” Bencie said. “The vaccine prevents people from getting ill. We’re still uncertain whether the vaccine prevents those who are vaccinated from still possibly taking on the disease or any of its variants and spreading it to others.”

Although many students

5 44 738

decided to return to campus full time after the holiday break, about 15% of the district’s nearly 50,000 students chose to stay at home for e-learning.

Kaylee Cooper, a senior at Braden River High School, was on the hybrid schedule because she liked to socialize with friends while also reducing the risk of being quarantined or testing positive for COVID-19 by doing e-learning three days per week.

In December, Braden River High School decided to no longer offer the hybrid schedule.

Cooper, a member of the school’s girls soccer team, decided to continue with e-learning to reduce her risk of possible exposure that could lead to her missing out on playing in a soccer game.

Landon Kiefer, a senior at Braden River High School, started with hybrid at the beginning of the year and transitioned to fulltime e-learning, so he could take electives at Braden River while being a dual-enrollment student at the State College of Florida.

Safety also played a factor in his decision.

“High schoolers are going to live like most high schoolers; they are going to go out and be with people they are friends with,” Kiefer said.

“I would rather take the opportunity to prevent myself from being sick, so that is why I think staying at home is safer at the moment.”

3A

4A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

MOON & COMPANY EYEWEAR LUXURY & EXOTIC Custom Prescription Eyewear

HERS

Photos by Brendan Lavell

UMR Sports Founder and Owner Ryan Moore is about to build a sports complex on land given to him by his father, Duane. The complex will be located on Upper Manatee River Road.

HIS

UMR sports complex headed to East County Son of Moore’s Dairy Farm owner follows his dream of building a sports complex.

Nothing says I LOVE YOU like

BRENDAN LAVELL STAFF WRITER

T: 941-260-8523 W: mooncoeyewear.com E: sales@mooncoeyewear.com 351687-1

105 S Lemon AVE | Sarasota, Fl 34236

After Duane Moore gave his son Ryan Moore 52 acres of land on Upper Manatee River Road, he asked what his son was going to do with it.

The 52 acres were part of about 500 acres where Ryan Moore grew up — Moore’s Dairy Farm.

Duane Moore thought his son would simply sell the land to a developer for another housing project.

Instead, Ryan Moore told his father he wanted to devote the land to his passion. He wanted to turn it into a sports complex.

“Sounds like music to my ears,” Ryan Moore said his father told him.

18 Months Promotional Financing Available!

- Reset tiles - Repair tiles - Replace tiles

$199.00

241 Interstate Court Sarasota, FL 34240 Florida State License CCC1325654

351632-1

348031-1

Call for details!

4420 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 941.260.8905 www.shellysgiftandchristmasboutique.com Monday - Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

Ryan Moore is the founder and owner of UMR Sports, an athletic academy that will be located, yes, on Upper Manatee River Road.

He grew up playing sports on his father’s land and throughout Manatee County. Now he wants to provide the opportunities he had to other people living in the area.

Moore envisions a complex with baseball and softball fields, pickleball courts, a cornhole area, volleyball courts, a track and a multiuse field or two that could be used for football, soccer, lacrosse and more. After completion of the complex, which will be located at 151 Upper Manatee River Road, he wants UMR Sports to become a household name in the East County area.

The amenities will be added in phases. The first phase of construction will include six pickleball courts and four sand volleyball courts. Moore said the courts will be designed to a standard that will allow him to bid for NCAA and National Junior College Athletic Association events, which is the goal for all of the complex’s facilities.

The pickleball courts will be constructed by Palmetto-based Stewart Tennis Courts & Fencing, and the volleyball courts will be constructed by Sarasota-based Landscapes by Aaron.

Moore said construction will begin within 30-40 days and that it will be complete before May, which would ensure the courts are operational by summer.

The second phase consists of three softball fields, including one that will be created as a stadium, which could also be used for youth baseball. He hopes construction for the second phase can begin in early 2022, depend-

ing on the county’s permitting process. The third phase includes three large baseball fields, and the fourth phase will likely have one or two multiuse fields and a track.

Moore said that he plans to charge $50 monthly for membership at the complex. In addition to open play, Moore wants to host leagues and tournaments among members, both kids and adults. He also plans to allow nonmembers to rent time on the courts through an online registration system, though members will have priority.

He will also rent out the facilities to organizations that want to use them, such as schools, travel leagues and recreational leagues.

UMR Sports has started holding tournaments, camps and clinics to develop its brand in the area.

For example, the UMR Pickleball Tournament Extravaganza was held Feb. 6 at Lakewood Ranch’s public courts.

As for camps and clinics, Moore has recruited several former pros to his staff to provide instruction including Scott Eyre, a 13-year MLB veteran who on the 2008 world champion Philadelphia Phillies; Bree Scarbrough, a professional beach volleyball player who is originally from Sarasota; and fast-pitch softball profes-

Chandra Moore, a former professional tennis player and wife of UMR Sports’ founder and owner, Ryan, is a UMR Sports pickleball instructor.

sionals Jessie Warren, Carsyn Gordon and Jessica Burroughs.

Once the proper facilities are built, Moore plans to move those camps and clinics to his complex.

In the future, Moore hopes the baseball and softball fields can provide a home for the Florida Gulf Coast League, a summer baseball league for college players that Moore founded. The league also started a softball division in 2020 that Moore said is the only summer league specifically designed for college softball players in the country. He said more than 8,000 people streamed the 2020 championship game online.

“We’ll be serving the community, but we’ll also be serving our collegiate leagues,” Moore said.

Moore said his biggest dream — which is only an idea at this point — is to start a professional softball

Buyers are anxiously seeking inventory!

sold

sold

sold

sold

pending

pending

active

$1,957,000

$1,050,000

$675,000 list price

$1,865,000

$865,000

$434,500 862 Molly Cir

TinaCiaccio.com | TinaCiaccio@michaelsaunders.com 8325 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 348630-1

league in Florida, with one team based in Manatee County.

Moore said the UMR Sports complex will be successful for two reasons. He said there aren’t enough fields and courts in the Lakewood Ranch area to meet the demand for baseball, softball, pickleball and, especially, sand volleyball. He said its location on Upper Manatee River Road will provide exposure via high traffic volume and increasing development in the area.

“My dad had no idea when he was 19 that he was going to be in the middle of Parrish and Lakewood Ranch Boulevard,” Moore said. “We feel like we’re going to be able to serve the community from Parrish all the way to south Lakewood Ranch.”

CONSIDERING SELLING?

sold

$324,000 list price

5A

— Ryan Moore

sold

$1,700,000

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

“We feel like we’re going to be able to serve the community from Parrish all the way to south Lakewood Ranch.”

$78 MILLION SOLD 2019-2020

$1,980,000

|

GRI, CLHMS, CIRE

#1 Michael Saunders Agent | Lakewood Ranch-Bradenton 2019-2020 Top 1% of all Sarasota and Manatee Agents

941.685.8420

Let’s Have a Conversation

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

Commissioners deny amended rezone request at Savanna

HEATING & COOLING • APPLIANCES PLUMBING • ELECTRICAL

WIN A

FREE

*

REME HALO LED System

BRENDAN LAVELL STAFF WRITER

S

avanna resident Phil Gonnella grew up near Yankee Stadium in the Bronx.

He has lived in New York City and New Jersey for most of his life, surrounded by development.

Now 70 years old, he has cherished his home in Savanna, where he has more space than ever before. He said he does not want to lose the 5.23-acre open space in front of the community that Meritage Homes is eyeing for commercial use.

“Their lawyer said: ‘Well, no one promised them this. It wasn’t written in the contract,’” Gonnella said. “And my response is, ‘You’re right.’ But this is what was presented to me. And no one mentioned that you can make such a drastic change.”

Manatee County commissioners denied a Meritage Homes application Feb. 4 to amend the company’s plan to develop 5.23 acres near the Savanna entrance by changing the proposed rezone from general commercial to planned development commercial.

Commissioners denied a proposal Jan. 7 by 5-2 vote to remove 5.23 acres in front of the Savanna entrance, currently zoned passive recreation open space, from the 304.39-acre Savanna property to rezone it for commercial use.

Commissioner George Kruse said Thursday the amended

®

Badger Bob’s Clear the Air Giveaway!

1,500

$

VALUE!

Protect your family with whole-house air purification.

99.9% efficacy in inactivating the COVID-19 virus**

Removes pollen, dust, dander, microbials and more

copenhagen imports

As the industry’s first and most trusted LED in-duct, whole-home air purification system, the REME HALO® system reaches every cubic inch of your air-conditioned space.

Its benefits include:

Kills sneeze germs within 3 feet of their source

Enter To Win Today!

Visit YourObserver.com

THE

rezone Meritage presented didn’t change the fact the board had already voted not to allow the land to be removed from Savanna in the first place.

“I don’t care if you’re putting a water park, you’re putting a school, you’re putting a Target in there,” Kruse said. “The first question [at the Jan. 7 meeting] was, ‘Can we take this out?’ And that’s where we said no. So that’s why I didn’t even understand the concept of, ‘OK, we’re not allowed to take it out, but what if we do this zoning instead?’

You don’t even have that parcel.

It’s not even up for debate at this point in time. You have to come to me and explain why you can take it out.”

Multiple commissioners said the land needs to remain as a passive recreation-open space zone.

“It needs to remain as is,” Commissioner Vanessa Baugh said.

“The people that have bought there, that’s what they bought believing was going to be there.

To change it now is just not, in my opinion, the right thing to do.”

The open space “was in the original site plan, and if they had any future plans of [rezoning] that, it shouldn’t have been in there,” Commissioner Carol Whitmore added. “To me, a deal’s a deal. If you had brought this before us in the past, and you didn’t include it, that’s on you, not me.”

LEATHER SALE

Beat the Price Increase!

* Factory Authorized * Now is the time!

Due to higher raw material costs, all Stressless® products will have a Global Price Increase from $100 - $200!

Don’t Wait!

Beat the April 1st deadline now! Your health and wellness deserve the best!

Also Select Factory Close-out Models!

*Restrictions apply. While supplies last. **According to a recent study conducted by RGF Environmental Group.

IT’S TIME FOR STRESSLESS®

Choose Your Size or Combination: Most recliners come in S, M or L. Most sofas come in 1 seat, 2-seater or 3-seater options (within sectionals, modular units or home theater).

941.777.2004 • BadgerBobs.com

24/ 7

Enjoy a Stressless®: Tailor-made for You.

7211 S. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, Florida 34231 *See Sales Associate for Details

Mon.-Sat. 10-6 • Sun. 12-5 941-923-2569 copenhagen-imports.com

We follow Social Distancing and CDC Guidelines

351689-1

License #: CFC1427129, CAC1815977, EC13009294

Choose Your Cover and Finish: 50 leather colors, 14 fabric grades and 8 wood finishes.

FURNITURE+LIGHTING+ACCENTS+INTERIOR DESIGN

Emergency Service 351074-1

6A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

7A

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

500

PREPAY VALENTINE’S DAY SALE

399ea

$

3 AREA’S OF

Buy 4

(for Frown Lines, Forehead, and Crow’s Feet)

299ea

Cheek Fillers for Get 3 areas of

OFF

Any Spa Treatment

OFF

(.8cc)

$

50

50

$

SAVE $600!!

when you buy 2 (for nasolabial folds, lips and smile lines)

$

VALENTINE’S DAY SALE!

FREE!

(for Frown Lines, Forehead, and Crow’s Feet)

INCLUDES: Diamond Glow, Skin Pen, Microneedling, Dermaplaning, Chemical Peels, and Microblading.

We are following all CDC guidelines to ensure the safety of our clients and our staff

THANK YOU

to Dr. J David Holcomb, MD for serving as our National Medical Director!

Check out the new CoolSculpting Elite at Holcomb-Kreithen Plastic Surgery.

Special Pricing for Bowtique Med Spa Clients!

PRESENTING Sponsor for SPARCCle on the Runway 2021

WE’RE GROWING!!! 3rd Location coming soon this summer to Venice!

Offers Expire 2/15/2021. For New Transactions only. All Sales Final. Must prepay. No refunds or exchanges. Cannot be combined with any other discount, promotion or credit.

CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENTS! LAKEWOOD RANCH | 6277 LAKE OSPREY DRIVE | 941.359.BTOX (2869) SARASOTA | 6118 S TAMIAMI TRAIL | 941.360.BTOX (2869) MON, TUES, THURS, FRI 10-5 | WED, SAT 10-4

348329-1

www.bowtiquemedspa.com

8A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

Answering the call Workers with a vast variety of talents make COVID-19 vaccinations possible for Manatee County’s 65 and up population at Tom Bennett Park.

Friedrich Hayek

Publisher / Emily Walsh, EWalsh@YourObserver.com Associate Publisher — East County Observer / Lori Ruth, LRuth@YourObserver.com Executive Editor / Kat Hughes, KHughes@YourObserver.com Managing Editor / Jay Heater, JHeater@YourObserver.com Sports Reporter / Ryan Kohn, RKohn@YourObserver.com Staff Writers / Liz Ramos, LRamos@YourObserver.com; Brendan Lavell, BLavell@YourObserver.com Copy Editor/ Kaelyn Adix, KAdix@YourObserver.com Editorial Designers / Melissa Leduc, MLeduc@YourObserver.com; Carol Parker, CParker@YourObserver.com Black Tie Editor / Harry Sayer, HSayer@YourObserver.com

STAFF WRITER

Each week, thousands of Manatee County seniors pile into their cars and descend upon East County’s Tom Bennett Park to receive COVID-19 vaccinations.

Making those vaccinations possible have been dozens of workers from an array of organiHere are just a few of the workers’ stories.

JOHNNY MCKENZIE

Johnny McKenzie grew up in Bradenton, and his Boy Scout troop used to meet near Tom Bennett Park. Now McKenzie works as an operations manager for the Florida Department of Health in Manatee County, overseeing maintenance and custodial crews or coordinating with contractors during renovations. He’s worked for the department for 16 years.

Photos by Brendan Lavell

hadn’t been long since he finished chemotherapy, but ultimately, they let him on the team.

“To me, it’s just public health at its finest,” McKenzie said. “It’s kind of what we signed up for.

It’s almost like the hurricane that won’t go away. But this is good because we’re saving lives.”

At Tom Bennett Park, McKenzie is doing odds and ends including transporting vaccines and patients’ paperwork, setting up the vaccine site each morning and helping with traffic control.

“I wouldn’t trade it for anything,” McKenzie said. “It’s a lot of long days, long hours. It’s a lot of moving parts. But I still wouldn’t want to be any place else.”

THOMAS MORGAN

Bradenton native Johnny McKenzie was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia in June 2019. He volunteered to join the Department of Health’s COVID-19 incident management team shortly after returning to work in January 2020.

McKenzie was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia June 3, 2019. He returned to work in January 2020 and said he felt God was giving him a second chance to go back to work.

“It gave me a new perspective to help those that are vulnerable, like the elderly, that we’re trying to target, as well as health care workers,” McKenzie said. “Having come so close to death, it just gave me a new appreciation for people who have health conditions or compromised immune systems. I get them. I feel them.”

When the department’s COVID-19 incident management team was assembled without McKenzie on it, he decided to tell the team managers he wanted to join.

They were concerned about his immune system, considering it

“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.”

“Road to Serfdom,” 1944

BRENDAN LAVELL

zations.

EAST COUNTY

Thomas Morgan, 67, retired and moved to Palm Aire in July 2018 from New York, where he was the chief radiation safety officer at Columbia University. He joined the Manasota Medical Reserve Corps in 2020, shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic took hold of Florida.

“I’ve moved five times in my life, and every time I have to build a new community,” he said. “This is my home now. And I feel like I have a responsibility to give back to the community where I can.”

Morgan said he’s the type of person who has always given back. He works at Tom Bennett Park’s post-vaccine recovery area, monitoring recipients for 15 to 30 minutes post-vaccination to look for adverse effects. Some recipients ask him how they can get involved.

“This is a huge operation,” Morgan said. “We have between 40 and 50 people here doing this job. It’s a tremendous draw on the assets of the emergency management community and the code enforcement officers. Volunteers are needed.”

MATTHEW MYERS

Matthew Myers is a coordinator for the Manatee County Emergency Management Division, one of two who stepped forward to work at the vaccine site. If it weren’t for COVID-19, he’d be helping the rest of the division prepare for hurricane season.

“This is obviously something that no one ever thought was going to happen, to this extent at least,” Myers said. “But we’re all

JOIN FORCES

Among the departments involved at the Tom Bennett Park vaccine site are: n Manasota Medical Reserve Corps; n Florida Department of Health; n Manatee County Public Safety Department; n Manatee County Emergency Services Division; n Manatee County Code Enforcement Department; and n Manatee County Property Management Department.

about it. We knew we signed up for stuff like this.”

His job at Bennett Park is to ensure the entire operation is running smoothly, whether that means monitoring the assembly and deconstruction of the site each day, verifying appointments for seniors or ensuring staff members are taking care of themselves.

“If you listen to these people coming through the lines, some of them are in tears, just grateful and happy that we’re here to do this,” Myers said.

Above: Matthew Myers is a coordinator for the Manatee County Emergency Management Division, which is currently balancing responsibilities between COVID-19 and hurricane preparation.

Director of Advertising / Jill Raleigh, JRaleigh@YourObserver.com Sales Manager / Penny DiGregorio, PDiGregorio@YourObserver.com Digital Sales and Business Development Manager / Kathleen O’Hara, KOHara@YourObserver.com Senior Advertising Executive / Laura Ritter, LRitter@YourObserver.com Advertising Executives / Richeal Bair, RBair@YourObserver. com; Chrissy Guevera, CGuevara@ YourObserver.com; Beth Jacobson, BJacobson@YourObserver.com; Jennifer Kane, JKane@YourObserver.com; Honesty Mantkowski, HMantkowski@ YourObserver.com; Bob Lewis, BLewis@ YourObserver.com; Toni Perren, TPerren@YourObserver.com Sales Operations Manager / Susan Leedom, SLeedom@YourObserver.com Sales Coordinator / Account Manager Emma Burke, EBurke@YourObserver. com; Lori Downey, LDowney@ YourObserver.com Classified Advertising Sales Executive / Kelly Florez, KFlorez@YourObserver.com Tributes Coordinator/ Kristen Boothroyd, Tributes@YourObserver.com Director of Marketing / Robin Lankton, RLankton@YourObserver.com Director of Creative Services / Caleb Stanton, CStanton@YourObserver.com Creative Services Administrator / Marjorie Holloway, MHolloway@ YourObserver.com Advertising Graphic Designers / Luis Trujillo, Allison Wampole Digital Developer / Jason Camillo, JCamillo@YourObserver.com Director of Information Technology / Adam Quinlin, AQuinlin@YourObserver. com Chief Financial Officer / Laura Keisacker, LKeisacker@YourObserver. com Controller / Rafael Labrin, RLabrin@YourObserver.com Office and Accounting Coordinator / Donna Condon, DCondon@YourObserver. com

SYMPHONY O’KEEFE

Venice resident Symphony O’Keefe has been working for the Manasota Medical Reserve Corps since 2002 after retiring from her position as school health nursing supervisor Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County.

She has been giving injections at Tom Bennett Park, usually giving somewhere between 50 and 90 vaccines in a given day. When O’Keefe sees how happy seniors are to receive the vaccine from her, it makes her want to tell other people in the community not to give up on eventually receiving their own vaccines.

“Just because I’m retired from the health department doesn’t mean I’m not still a nurse,” O’Keefe said. “I’m not sitting home and eating bonbons or anything. It’s going to sound silly, but I feel compelled to do this. It’s fulfilling to know that you’re able to help other people and make a difference.”

Observer Media Group Inc.

is locally owned.

Publisher of the Longboat Observer, East County Observer, Sarasota Observer, Siesta Key Observer, Palm Coast Observer, Ormond Beach Observer, West Orange Times & Observer, Southwest Orange Observer, Business Observer, Jacksonville Daily Record, Jacksonville Record & Observer, LWR Life Magazine, Baldwin Park Living Magazine and Season Magazine

Editor and 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 © 2020 The Observer Media Group Inc. All Rights Reserved

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

SIDE OF RANCH

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

9A

JAY HEATER

Lake Club teen takes cancer to ‘Center Ice’ I

t was a minute into a Zoom conference with the Rotary Club of Lakewood Ranch, and Lake Club’s Jared Hermann was struggling.

Hermann, who had been a member of the group until his son, Weston, was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2014, had to pause for a moment before apologizing to the Rotarians because he was overcome with emotion.

“This is my first presentation since Weston’s relapse,” he said.

Weston, who is 14, relapsed for the fourth time in May 2020 and now has entered his 34th week (out of 52 weeks) of chemotherapy.

Hermann gathered himself and then moved forward, telling the Rotarians about Weston, his struggle, his love of ice hockey, and the facts and figures on pediatric cancer.

At the end of the hour, everyone in the conference was emotionally drained.

But when Hermann signed off, the rest of those in attendance could take a deep breath, dry their eyes and go along their way. Hermann and his family, meanwhile, have been living a “Groundhog’s Day” stream of terror.

Hermann, a financial adviser, knows one of the ways to spread education about pediatric cancer is to do such presentations and explain what families endure. He

also works with the V Foundation, Coops Catch for Kids, the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation, Children’s Dream Fund, #GoldTogether and the Payton Wright Foundation.

And now his family has found another way to educate the public.

In cooperation with #GoldTogether for Childhood Cancer and the American Cancer Society, a 24-page comic book is being developed about superhero “Center Ice,” modeled after true-life superhero Weston Hermann. “Center Ice” fights against the nefarious Mr. I and Goal-E, to score goals no matter the obstacles.

All proceeds from “Center Ice” will benefit #GoldTogether and the American Cancer Society and will support childhood cancer research.

“We have been looking for ways to combine Weston’s passion for hockey and raising awareness and funds for pediatric cancer research,” Jared Hermann said. “We were approached by Laura Eicher, who is the senior pediatric initiatives manager for the American Cancer Society and #GoldTogether. Eicher’s son, Cole, is a pediatric brain cancer survivor and founder of #GoldTogether and also a member (as is Weston) of Dick Vitale’s All-Courageous team. We have gotten to know the Eicher family from Dick’s

gala over the years.”

Eicher wanted to know if Weston would be willing to tell his story. He was.

The story focuses on Center Ice and his battle against cancer, fatigue and nausea all while using decades-old chemotherapy drugs before trying to score goals. Weston, Jared and mom. Laura, all have told their story to artists who designed the characters and storyline.

“I think it’s awesome,” Weston said. “To have your own superhero based upon your life is pretty cool. It has been fun creating the character, telling my story about facing cancer and about beating it again for the fourth time. I hope my friends find it enjoyable while educating them on the challenges that cancer and chemotherapy patients face every day.”

But will people warm up to a comic book based on someone who has cancer?

“I hope kids will find it interesting, reading about a true life superhero who faces and overcomes adversity,” Jared Hermann said. “But more importantly, we hope to educate kids on cancer and the need for research dollars. We hope it provides inspiration and courage that no matter what obstacles and adversities they face, they can overcome them. Our

Courtesy photos

Lake Club’s Weston Hermann will have comic book “Center Ice” modeled after his struggle with cancer.

goal is to provide hope and encouragement to others and shed light on the need for updated treatment options than chemotherapy drugs from 1958.”

The comic book, which is expected to be released in June, will be published and marketed nationally by the American Cancer Society and #GoldTogether.

Jared Hermann said East County residents can help by sharing Weston’s story and by setting up presentations for

groups, along with donations that will help to print more copies of the comic book.

If you want to know more send Hermann an email at JaredHermann@mac.com.

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

New Home Inventory is at an ALL TIME LOW! 2021 is the year to MAKE YOUR MOVE! Call Julie & Pat to discuss listing your home today.

SPECTACULAR WATERFRONT LIVING Completely Renovated on Palma Sola Bay

$2,295,000

2304 Palma Sola Blvd

PRICE IMPROVEMENT

UNDER CONTRACT IN 12 HOURS!

$1,450,000

Legends Walk Terrace, Lakewood Ranch PAT AND JULIE WARREN

Real Estate Advisors, REALTORS Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate

UNDER CONTRACT

$3,350,000

Harbor Acres, Sarasota

WHY THE WARREN GROUP?

Julie and Pat were Highly Recommended and Should Be!!

My family moved to Florida from another state. We loved the Sarasota-Bradenton area, but needed guidance.

Simply put, Julie and Pat were Absolutely Incredible! They were always available and we always felt like we were their priority. They went over and beyond every step of the way, and did many things for us that does not fall under their requirements or duties to us as clients. It was never a business transaction. Julie and Pat are two of the kindest, caring and thoughtful people you will ever meet or work with, and very knowledgeable as well. No stone was left unturned and they take thorough to the next level. I almost never write reviews, but I am writing this one because I am very thankful for the service, professionalism and the dedication we have received from Julie and Pat. They have made this move so much easier and less stressful. I would recommend them every time. Thank you Julie and Pat!!!

You are the best!!

- Kyle & Rene F.

8334 Market Street Lakewood Ranch, FL

C: 941.350.7044 C: 941.350.7439 O: 941.907.1033

www.WarrenGroupSarasota.com Pat.Warren@CBRealty.com Julie.Warren@CBRealty@.com

348391-1

Presenting

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

Is unity possible?

T

he political parties changed significantly during the 47 years President Joe Biden worked in Washington, D.C. and the 33 years he ran for president. The contrasts today are sharp.

The Republican Party is no longer a genteel, somewhat spineless party, led by good people but often steamrolled by the Democratic Party and the media.

The Republican Party is now the vocal and engaged party of the middle class, blue collar workers and Americans who still embrace the traditional ideals of family, church, individual liberty, hard work, personal responsibility, law and order, and strong national defense.

They are no longer a silent majority, and they refuse to be intimidated into silence by political correctness.

The Democratic Party is no longer the party that believes President John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address declaration, “that the rights of man come not from the generosity of the state but from the hand of God,” or willing to answer his challenge to Americans, “Ask not what your country can do for you but what you can do for your country.”

The Democratic Party is now the party of the bubbled rich, trapped poor and coastal elites that embrace socialist policies and cradle-to-grave programs that keep people dependent on the government and voting Democrat. They want big government to provide everything

“We must reach out to all Americans and campaign on the superior policies of the Republican Party.” for everyone. For free.

The Democratic Party is also now the party of big tech and censored speech, tyrannical COVID-19 policies and denied religious freedom. They are using identity politics to divide our country. They were mum for months as the Black Lives Matter and antifa protests burned American cities, killed dozens and created public panic. They either supported or looked the other way when statues of great Americans, such as George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson and even Frederick Douglass, were being torn down. And they use fake news and big tech to attack and cancel anyone who dares to debate or oppose them on these matters or any of their policies.

This is why Biden’s call now for healing and unity rings so hollow and is so unlikely to be answered. It’s really a demand for conformity.

Make no mistake. This is a battle for our country’s survival. It is no longer enough to hold the line. Republicans must win the hearts and minds of our fellow citizens before too many embrace the dishonest, divisive and socialist policies of today’s

File photo

Rep. Tommy Gregory

Democratic Party. Our country will not endure unless Republicans lead the way. We cannot retreat to the corner of the silent majority.

How do we win this battle of ideas in a world dominated by sound bites, attack ads, gaslighting and smear campaigns?

We need to remember that all politics are local. For too long, we have ceded ground needlessly to the Democrats. Republicans must be willing to knock on all doors, not just the registered Republicans and NPAs or traditionally Republican voting blocks. I’ll admit, I’ve run for office twice and won both times without knocking on many Democrats’ doors. That worked for me in a heavily Republican district, but it didn’t help grow the party.

We must reach out to all Americans and campaign on the superior policies of the Repub-

lican Party. We need to target groups of voters who traditionally vote Democrat and never hear our message. We must be able to intelligently explain why we are Republicans and why Republican policies are best for all Americans.

In short, we have to work harder. While I was in the military, I often told my subordinates to keep attacking. Those aren’t the right words to use in this endeavor for obvious reasons, but the point is the same. We must be relentless. We must work hard all day, every day to reach all Americans, especially registered Democrats.

It isn’t going to be easy to win their hearts and minds. We must keep working.

Rep. Tommy Gregory represents House District 73 covering portions of Sarasota and Manatee counties.

A Quicker Recovery Lies Ahead

At Sarasota Memorial, we operate on the cutting edge, which is why our cardiac surgeons specialize in Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery, performing life-saving procedures through a small incision no more than three inches long. Not only does this mean less pain and a smaller scar for our patients, but fewer complications, lower risk of infection, and a quicker recovery with a shorter hospital stay.

To learn more, visit smh.com

Traditional

Minimal 346085-1

10A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

11A

THE BEST-SELLING LUXURY VILLAGE IN LAKEWOOD RANCH

EXCLUSIVE ADDRESS. EXTRAORDINARY LIFEST YLE.

Community of the Year 17 MODELS TO TOUR

The Lake Club just celebrated its most successful year ever, and now’s the time for you to discover the incredible lifestyle and gorgeous residences of this best-selling luxury village.

Genoa, the newest enclave by STOCK, has expanded to include four neighborhoods with more than 20 spacious floor plans from which to choose. And STOCK’s exclusive custom homebuilding division, Stock Custom Homes, is making its debut in The Lake Club with two exquisite estate homes under construction, joining the list of the area’s finest luxury homebuilders.

With a 20,000-square-foot Grande Clubhouse, spa & fitness, tennis, pickleball, fabulous dining, lifestyle director, concierge and more, The Lake Club offers the most coveted lifestyle of any village in Lakewood Ranch.

From the $700s to over $3 million THE LAKE CLUB INFORMATION CENTER: 8307 Lake Club Blvd., Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 | (941) 907-9088 | thelakeclublwr.com

BROKER PARTICIPATION WELCOMED. ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING THE REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS REFERENCE SHOULD BE MADE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. NOT AN OFFERING WHERE PROHIBITED BY STATE LAW. PRICES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

351321-1

ANCHOR BUILDERS | ARTHUR RUTENBERG HOMES | STOCK CUSTOM HOMES | JOHN CANNON HOMES | LEE WETHERINGTON HOMES | STOCK LUXURY HOMES

12A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

Golf tourney gives fans a green light

We Serve All Families In this time of need, know who to call.

Our firms will serve your family with all precautions, CDC guidelines, and compassionate care.

Tourney director says LECOM Suncoast Classic will be a safe event to attend.

Dignity Memorial® Robert Toale & Sons

JAY HEATER MANAGING EDITOR

T

he 2021 LECOM Suncoast Classic is expected to look much the same at Lakewood National Golf Club as the 2020 version when spectators strolled the course and watched some of the world’s top golfers.

It’s when the fans are looking around outside the ropes from Feb. 18-21 where the difference might be noticed.

In many cases, it will be a very subtle difference, such as seeing fans drinking canned beer instead of draft beer.

The COVID-19 pandemic has yet to release its grip on much of the world, but Tournament Director Justin Kristich is confident fans will be presented a safe environment when they choose to attend the Korn Ferry Tour’s third annual stop in Lakewood Ranch.

Some changes will be apparent, such as the absence of the bleacher seating that lined key parts of the course in the first two years in

Lakewood Ranch. For this event, fans are urged to bring their own chairs if they aren’t comfortable being on their feet.

Face masks will be required, and temperature checks will be performed at the gate. All the concession food will be prepackaged. No media day will be held.

And beer will only be sold in cans.

Kristich said fans don’t seem to be too bothered by the changes because pre-sales for the event are along lines with sales a year ago, when the tournament hosted 19,000 fans.

“There is not a lot going on right now,” Kristich said. “People could be seeing this as a kick-off event for the season opening up.

We kind of assumed people were ready to get out.”

If you or a family you know would like to discuss options for services, cremation, Life Story Celebrations, or returning to their home state up north, we have answers available.

ROBERT TOALE & SONS

ROBERT TOALE & SONS

FUNERAL HOME AT PALMS MEMORIAL PARK

FUNERAL HOME AT MANASOTA MEMORIAL PARK

SARASOTA

BRADENTON

941-371-4962

ROBERT TOALE & SONS FUNERAL HOME AT WIEGAND CHAPEL

SARASOTA

donate & shop Building Materials | Furniture | Appliances Art | Decorative Accessories | Lamps

941-755.2688

OUR NEW LAKEWOOD RANCH LOCATION COMING SOON

3 Stores n 1 Location Tuesday - Saturday n 10:00am - 5:00pm 2095 17th Street n Sarasota

941-921-5755

Have large items to donate?

Call to schedule your free pick up.

Not affiliated with Toale Brothers Funeral Home or Toale Brothers Inc.

(941) 444-5783 351688-1

www.RTSfunerals.com

n

www.habitatsrq.org

Our vision is everyone deserves a decent place to live.

347872-1

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

IF YOU GO

LECOM SUNCOAST CLASSIC When: Begins 7 a.m. Feb. 18 and 19; 8 a.m. Feb. 20 and 21 Where: Lakewood National Golf Club, 17605 Lakewood National Parkway, Lakewood Ranch Tickets: $20 at LECOMSuncoastClassic. com or at the gate Did you know: Spectators are encouraged to bring their own chairs; there will be no bleacher seating. Face masks will be required.

Both Van Meer are hoping things are back to normal next year for Korn Ferry’s fourth year of a five-

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

13A

ting narrowed. But the course is long enough, and this is a spectator-friendly course. Logistically, it could be done.”

Although the PGA Tour will be in the area the week following the LECOM Suncoast Classic, fans will not be able to attend that event.

Kristich said it hasn’t taken away from the Korn Ferry Tour event.

“It’s good for the area,” he said.

“You have more eyeballs on golf in Lakewood Ranch. And when they announced it, we saw our website get a spike big time. It’s only been positive.”

LIVE toFLORIDA the fullest

Jay Heater

Lakewood National Golf Club General Manager Todd Van Meer and LECOM Suncoast Classic Tournament Director Justin Kristich say they can provide fans with as safe an environment as possible.

year contract with the Lakewood Ranch course. By that time, Lakewood National’s clubhouse will be built, which will provide extra amenities for the players. Right now the tournament uses an aerobics room in the amenities center for player dining.

Van Meer said it is up to the Lakewood National residents where the event goes in the future.

Could the course someday host a PGA Tour event?

Van Meer used to work at Palm Harbor’s Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club, which hosted a PGA Tour event.

“I know how intensive an undertaking it is,” he said. “But it’s neat for people to see that level of ability. If we were hosting the guys who play at the PGA level, they might ask us to tweak a few things, such as the fairways get-

|

Kristich said it’s all about putting on a safe event and that the 2021 event never has been about getting as many people on the course as possible. He also vowed that the tournament’s staff members will do everything they can to make people feel comfortable.

“We know how to get fans in here in a safe way,” he said. “The fans can easily be spread out around the course.”

As far as attendance, Kristich is as much concerned about the weather as he is the pandemic. A few days the first two years featured cold or rainy weather. That can scare the fans away.

“We depend on a big walk-up,” he said.

Other stipulations for attending the tournament are listed on the tournament’s website, LECOMSuncoastClassic.com.

Fans are still expected to congregate around holes No. 17 and No. 18, especially Sunday when the tournament is being decided.

The tournament will have extra security at those sites to making sure everyone is social distancing, but Kristich does promise not to over-police that area.

To keep face-to-face contact at a minimum, the tournament won’t have the areas of non-food vendors that it has had in the past.

The tournament actually will have additional food vendors this year to keep lines from building.

All the food will be grab and go.

Lakewood National Gold Club General Manager Todd Van Meer had to adjust his staff’s assignments from the first two years.

“We usually have a lot of people who do multiple functions,” he said. “We can’t do that.”

Any Lakewood National employee who will be in contact with the players must be tested.

When it comes to transporting fans, no enclosed vans will provide shuttle service from the parking lots.

Lakewood Ranch offers a lifestyle unlike any other in Florida. An incredible variety of homes and villages are all within minutes of our 150-mile trail network, eleven parks, three town centers, a sports campus, Sarasota Polo Club, a farmers’ market, arts & entertainment and 365 days worth of activities. And just beyond our backyard, you’ll find the white-sand beaches of Sarasota and all the excitement of Tampa. Welcome to The Ranch. We can’t wait to show you around.

20+ UNIQUE VILLAGES TO CHOOSE FROM IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA NEW HOMES FROM THE $200S TO OVER $1 MILLION

The Best-Selling Community in the U.S. for All Ages

CAT CARE CLINIC

Open to the Public

By Appointment Only - 941.366.CATS (2287) 3474541

2542 17th St., Sarasota, FL 34234 For pricing and services, go to www.catdepot.org

© 2020 Lakewood Ranch

.com

351173-1

Affordable Veterinary Services

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

|

For Your Special

Additional funding helps county seniors

Valentine

Manatee County’s Senior Services division will reach more clients with increase in state funding.

BRENDAN LAVELL STAFF WRITER

Gold & Diamond Stack Rings Sale Priced from $329.00

351191-1

With much attention placed on seniors 65 and up due to Manatee County’s COVID-19 program, Senior Services Manager Tracie Adams said people should also think of that age group when, in general, it comes to discussing people in need.

The most visible seniors, she said, are active and therefore seem like they don’t need much help. The other group of seniors people think about are living in assisted living facilities.

However, Adams said Manatee County has a middle group of seniors who still live at home but could use some sort of help on a regular basis. These seniors often go unnoticed.

That’s where Manatee County’s Senior Services division can excel, Adams said.

She only wishes the county could help more of them, and that would mean a bigger budget.

Senior Services learned the week of Jan. 25 that the state would be supplying additional funding. Adams estimated her division would receive the

Brendan Lavell

money sometime in February, and an amendment to the division’s budget would go before the County Commission in March.

Some money will be used to cover excess expenditures.

The Community Care for the Elderly program will receive an additional $82,596 to add to its current budget of $1.19 million and is likely to add about 10 new clients from the waitlist. The Home Care for the Elderly program will receive $6,610 to add to its current budget of $93,693 and is likely to add about eight to 10 new clients from the waitlist.

The Alzheimer’s Disease Initiative program will receive $55,118 to add to its current budget of $431,428 but is unlikely to add any clients.

Manatee County Senior Services Manager Tracie Adams says getting older and needing help to maintain your home shouldn’t mean you have to leave it.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 16A

GET THE BEST AIR CONDITIONING, PLUMBING AND ELECTRICAL SERVICE

Cleaner Air

ONLY $49

*

A/C TUNE-UP Includes our 6 Month no breakdown guarantee *With recommended repairs Must be presented at time of service. Cannot be combined with any other offers

Healthier Water

Safer Home

150 OFF

FREE

$

*

*

ANY NEW WATER HEATER INSTALLATION

LANDSCAPE LIGHTS

FREE estimates if your water water is 8 years or older

Buy one light, get one free!

Up to 3 BOGO deals per customer.

*Some restrictions may apply.

Must be presented at time of service. Cannot be combined with any other offers

Must be presented at time of service. Cannot be combined with any other offers

Never an Overtime Charge h 7 Days a Week h Call Today to Schedule!

(941) 343-8543 h CoolToday.com

351793-1

14A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

15A

FLORIDA

LEATHER

GALLERY

PRESIDENTS’ DAY

40% OFF STOREWIDE FLORIDA

LEATHER

GALLERY

PRESIDENTS’ DAY

40% OFF STOREWIDE

+ 12 Months + 12 MonthsFrom Traditional to Contemporary, of Interest Free FLORIDA LEATHER GALLERY has countless From Traditional to Contemporary, of Interest Freeoptions to FLORIDA LEATHER GALLERY has countless customize the look you have options to customize the look you have Financing Financing been dreaming of forofyour home. been dreaming for your home.

fluent

Get more for less with a

Free Leather Upgrade

fluent

IN THE LANGUAGE OF

LEATHER

The Sunrise

Now $1699 Reg $2995

Our LEAXPERTS™ have been expertly trained to help you find the perfect frame for your Our lifestyle.

LEAXPERTS™

have been expertly trained to help you find the perfect

IN THE LANGUAGE OF frame for your Get more for less with a 7766 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL | floridaleathergallery.com Free Leather Upgrade lifestyle.

351895-1

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

FROM PAGE 14A

“There’s not enough money to cover the need in the community,” Adams said. “That is tough. You feel bad, and we’re just happy that this little increase is coming.”

Manatee County Senior Services, also known as Aging and Eligibility Services, is part of the Neighborhood Services Department. Senior Services directs programs for county citizens age 60 or older who are still living independently. The goal is to help seniors continue to live in their own homes for as long as possible, Adams said.

“Just because you’re getting older and can’t do everything to maintain your home or maintain yourself, that shouldn’t be a reason that you have to leave it,” Adams said. “Being able to age in place is better overall for your own mental health than having to go to some congregate facility living situation.

“Then the money side of things, it’s more cost effective to pay for services in the home than it is to pay for services at a facility.”

Aging and Eligibility Services consists of three main programs: Community Care for the Elderly; Alzheimer’s Disease Initiative, which has no age limit; and Home Care for the Elderly, a financial assistance program. The county has about 150 clients who use the three programs.

The community care program is by far the largest of the three, with 99 active clients and a waitlist of about 600. Adams is hopeful she’ll soon bring in more people off the waitlist after a recent boost in funding from the state.

The waitlist for the Alzheimer’s Disease Initiative and Home Care for the Elderly were 87 and 78,

FAM I LY

Family Owned.

Family Focused.

HELP FOR SENIORS

Services provided by Community Care for the Elderly program n Case management n Homemaker services (housekeeping, meal prep, medical supplies, etc.) n Personal care (personal hygiene, dressing, etc.) n Respite care n Home-delivered meals n Adult day care n Emergency alert response n Medical transportation

respectively, as of the week of Jan. 22.

One’s financial situation does not affect eligibility for the community care program. Interested seniors speak with someone from the state in an over-the-phone assessment. Based on the assessment, seniors are scored and placed on the county’s waitlist.

Those who need care the most are placed at the front of the line.

However, the price of services provided by the community care program depends on the senior’s income, usually sources of retirement income, such as Social Security and pension.

Low-income seniors can obtain service for free while those with more money pay a percentage of their income each month.

Senior Services does not provide these services directly. For each enrolled senior, county staff provides a case manager who does an in-home assessment and creates a care plan with the senior and their family to determine needed services. The case manager checks in regularly and reassesses the senior each year.

DICK VITALE ESPN Broadcaster Patient of Dr. Soscia

At Toale Brothers, we understand the value of family in planning for the future and honoring loved ones. That’s why we are still owned and operated by the Toale family, who have provided support, guidance and helpful resources to the people of our community

Center For Sight is “Awesome, Baby!”

during their time of need since 1948.

For three generations, we have remained focused on celebrating lives with compassion,

In the game of life, focus on what really matters.

respect and personal attention. Not because it is our legacy, but because we genuinely care.

It’s no surprise that cataract surgery with Dr. Soscia was well organized, painless and precise. Everything went according to plan and my recovery was incredibly quick.

When I talk about great players, I call them “3-S Men” – super – scintillating – sensational – and I’d utilize that description for Dr. Soscia without hesitation.

Proud to be a part of Sarasota’s history.

Honored to be a part of your family’s celebration of life.

William L. Soscia, M.D.

941.955.4171 www.ToaleBrothers.com

350233-1

LASIK, Laser Cataract & Lens Replacement Surgeon Named “Top Doctor” by Castle Connolly

349008-1

16A

CenterForSight.net • 941.330.2020

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

17A

COMMITMENT DEDICATION FOCUS

Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) and the Korn Ferry Tour share a commitment to nurturing future leaders. Success on the field of competition and in the practice of medicine requires heart, pride and teamwork. LECOM prepares its students to become tomorrow’s leaders in medicine, pharmacy and dentistry while the Korn Ferry Tour prepares its athletes to be tomorrow’s stars on the PGA TOUR. Both strive for excellence and to develop into highly trained, successful professionals. LECOM is a proud partner of the Korn Ferry Tour and the Suncoast Classic.

Official Sponsor

Campuses in Erie and Greensburg, PA, Bradenton, FL and Elmira, NY

Visit LECOM.edu

351069-1

College of Osteopathic Medicine School of Health Services Administration School of Pharmacy Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences School of Dental Medicine

18A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

FAMILYSTYLE MEALS

Share quality time with a quality meal from the comfort of your home.

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

ADD OUR AWARD-WINNING HOUSE MARGARITA

BY THE FULL OR HALF-GALLON TO ANY MEAL!

60S 70S & 80S 351698-1

NOW OFFERING MEALS FOR FAMILIES OF 2, 4, AND 6! PLEASE CALL TO PLACE ORDER & CALL UPON ARRIVAL. WE'LL BRING YOUR ORDER OUT TO YOUR VEHICLE FOR YOU.

351701-1

*Subject to availability

CORTEZ

6696 Cortez Road 941.792.0077

ELLENTON

BRIDGE ST. PIER

1525 51st Avenue East 941.721.7773

351697-1

LANDSIDE

6906 14th Street West 941.758.7880

Bradenton Beach 941.778.AMOB (2662)

Courtesy photos

106.9 FM SARASOTA/BRADENTON • 95.9 FM VENICE 1220 AM ON THE FLORIDA SUNCOAST

YOUR HOME DE SERVE S HUNTER D OUGLAS

FLIPPING THE SCRIPT MARTY FUGATE CONTRIBUTOR

T

Silhouette® Window Shadings Voted One of Sarasota’s Best 26 Years in a row!

•

Janet and Curt Mattson

4801 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota • Across from The Landings

351093-1

Wallcoverings & Blinds, Inc....Since 1989

Owners Blinds • Shutters • Draperies • Wallcoverings Sarasota 941-925-7800 www.mmwallcoveringsblinds.com

he Historic Asolo Theater is a gilt-edged rococo jewel box. The multitiered operashell auditorium was built in the 18th century in Asolo, Italy, and reassembled in the Ringling Museum in the 1950s. Looking up at the ornate proscenium arch, it’s easy to imagine you were back in the 1700s. Except for one glaring anachronism.

A massive Confederate flag draped above the stage. Not just any rebel flag, either. A flag in the black, green and red colors of African liberation — like an artifact from a parallel universe where an American slave revolt had succeeded.

It sets the stage for an edgy, avant-garde drama. And John Sims is the author.

This Sarasota-based creator is primarily known as a Black visual artist. But among other things, Sims is also a poet, writer, filmmaker, music producer and dramatist.

This “Afro-Confederate” flag installation was originally meant to be revealed at the climax of Sims’ “(Di)Visions of America,” a multimedia stage production combining live and recorded performances.

The pandemic forced a change.

A one-time performance was staged without an audience, captured on film and given limited release on streaming video.

In the Monda Gallery, Sims’

LEAD SPONSORS

LEAD SPONSORS

FEBRUARY 13 TO JUNE 27

DIGITAL SPONSOR

MAJOR SPONSORS SELBY.ORG

343518-1

DIGITAL SPONSOR

Beverly and Bob Bartner; Better-Gro; BMO Private Bank; Ed and Betsy Cohen/Arête Foundation; Gold Coast Eagle Distributing; Ernest R. Kretzmer; Flora Major; Cornelia and J. Richard Matson; The Westin; and Williams Parker Harrison Dietz & Getzen

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

19A

BUSY BEE GREAT? TUTORING

Private Tutoring Grades K-College • Your “Go To” for FSA Test Prep 941.907.8482 | mjbhaus@aol.com | www.busybeetutoring.net

IF YOU GO JOHN SIMS’ 'RECOLORATION PROCLAMATION, 2020' When: Through Feb. 18 Where: The Keith D. and Linda L. Monda Gallery of Contemporary Art, The Ringling Tickets: Free with museum admission Info: Call 359-5700, or visit Ringling.org or JohnSimsProjects. com.

We have met the audience, and it is us.

People like me don’t see the racist implications all around us. The statue of a Confederate general over here. That rebel flag decal on the pickup truck over there. This stuff is all around us.

We’ve seen it our whole lives.

As a result, we stop seeing it.

It’s just visual noise. A blur in the background.

By flipping the script, Sims makes it visible again.

We

See

the

ENTIRE FAMILY

See How Exceptional Eye Care Can Be

2

Accepting Appointments at

LOCATIONS! Vision Source - LWR 11151 East SR 70 Lakewood Ranch FL 34202 (941) 739-5959 Vision Source - Parrish 10060 US Highway 301 N Parrish FL 34219 (941) 304-2015

Board Certified Optometric Physicians

348766-1

Visual artist John Sims uses the symbolism of the Confederate flag to spark discussions about racism in America.

351598-1

HOW DO YOU GO FROM GOOD TO

Dr. Troy Bedinghaus, O.D. | Dr. Jordan Petrosky, O.D. | Dr. Olga Sokol, O.D.

www.MyVisionSource.com

Staying at a nice hotel when out-of-town can make travel worry-free.

Unless your husband's in surgery at a nearby cancer center.

We believe no one should have to leave home for comprehensive cancer care—and now, no one has to. The Radiation Oncology Center at University Parkway is open, and the Oncology Tower on the SMH main campus opens Fall 2021. Finally, hope can be found here at home.

You have the power to give hope. Please consider a gift to help support the Brian D. Jellison Cancer Institute.

Hope comes home. Give today.

941.917.1286 | smhf.org A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE (800-435-7352) WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. THE HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION WILL USE THE FUNDS FOR THE STATED PURPOSE BUT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO USE THE GIFT IN A MANNER CONSISTENT WITH ITS CHARITABLE PURPOSE IF THE STATED PURPOSE IS IMPOSSIBLE OR IMPRACTICAL TO ACHIEVE.

349318-1

“Recoloration Proclamation” focuses specifically on his 20-year project to desecrate and deconstruct the Confederate Flag at exhibits and events throughout America.

The strategy here is pure artistic Aikido. It’s Sims’ twist on fighting fire with fire. He’s fighting racist drama with his own drama.

Racist power thrives on theatrics, after all. Adolf Hitler tops the list, but American devotees of white supremacy are like a traveling theater troupe with a trunk full of Confederate flags, burning crosses and men on horseback dressed up like ghosts.

The props and costumes feed an inflated sense of self as part of a superior group.

Sims flips the script and robs racist drama of its power. Under Sims’ direction, Ally Couch sings “Dixie” in the style of Billie Holiday’s “Strange Fruit.”

The Confederate flag itself is lynched. Sims’ fiery poetry turns “Amazing Grace” into “A Blazing Grace” — a call to burn and bury it and all it represents.

It’s a powerful message, assuming our homegrown Hitlers would ever watch this video. But because they probably won’t, who’s his target audience?

Sims’ “(Di)Visions of America” answers that question.

There’s some overlapping content with “The Recoloration Proclamation.” Sims’ message is loud and clear: Racism is bad.

Aside from extremist militia groups, neo-Nazis and conspiracy nuts, most white Americans would agree. Racism is bad. Yep. That’s obvious. So obvious, it’s invisible …

To, say, comfortable liberals like yours truly who do watch the video.

|

20A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

YourObserver.com

Tips and Tricks for a

Virtual YOU!

LIVE Demonstrations Raffle Prizes Attendees will receive $100 OFF their first service with Dr. Spellman

FACE to FACE

Photos by Jay Heater

Joe Rassett, the general manager and chief operating officer of Palm Aire Country Club, says the multimillion renovation of the Champions Cours will be complete in mid-November.

with Dr. Andrea Spellman Andrea J. Spellman, D.O. • Fellowship Trained, American Board of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery • Board Certified, American Osteopathic Board of Otolaryngology/Facial Plastic Surgery

WHEN:

Thursday, February 18th 3pm EST Virtual Seminar LIVE on Instagram and Facebook.

Follow us now and sign up to attend.

5911 N. Honore Ave., Suite 120 Sarasota, FL 34243 www.HillstromPlasticSurgery.com The patient and any other person responsible for payment has a right to refuse to pay, cancel payment or be reimbursed for payment for any other service, examination or treatment that is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for free, discounted fee or reduced fee service, examination or treatment.

Palm Aire’s Champions Course renovation aims to restore its historical design.

Siesta Key Campus: Pre-K - Grade 5 | Uihlein Campus in Lakewood Ranch: Grades 6 - 12

ACADEMIC

EXCELLENCE

APPLY NOW FOR 2021-22 941-203-3640 | www.ODA.edu/discover

351549-1

349991-1

WHERE:

941.355.3223

LINKS TO THE PAST

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

MANAGING EDITOR

A

21A

— Joe Rassett

Plaques tell of the golfing legends who have competed at the Champions Course at Palm Aire Country Club.

4551 N. Washington Blvd.

Sarasota, FL 34234 941.355.8437

It’s Time to

part comes when golfers move forward or back to play the tees that either shorten or lengthen the course.

“You can make the course as easy or as challenging as you want,” Rassett said.

The course also will get new crushed shell paths and about 40 trees that were “damaging the layout” will be removed.

Palm Aire also has another 18-hole course, the Lakes Course, which will keep the members busy while the work is being done.

Rassett said the catalyst for getting the project started was the membership.

“You have to decide if you want it and if you want to keep up with the Jones,” he said. “This is not a bundled country club. We do it the old fashioned way. We have 500 equity members from full golf to social. They all had a say

whether we moved forward.”

A vote of the membership was overwhelmingly in favor of the project. Rassett also noted that those who live in Palm Aire, whether or not they are members of the country club, will have their home values positively impacted by the project.

“The whole process is intriguing,” he said. “The club has survived COVID-19 and now is investing in the future. Could we host a U.S. Open qualifier on this course? Absolutely. Could we host a [U.S.] Mid-Amateur? Absolutely. There will be something here for every level of golfer.”

Get Fired Up About Your Backyard!

CALL TODAY FOR YOUR

FREE ESTIMATE!

941.373.5110 Custom built outdoor kitchen Islands and wall units. Granite counter tops, stone veneer fronts, tile backsplashes, with top of line Stainless Steel appliances from

Blaze, AOG, and Firemagic.

On a budget? We offer prefab Islands too!

OUTDOOR KITCHENS

HARDSCAPES & PAVERS

Install New or Replace Outdated Pavers to Your Outdoor Living Space.

Pool Deck - Patio - Driveway

www.lakewoodranchlandscape.com

2510 1st Street West Bradenton, FL 34208 941.748.4679

OUR SHOWROOMS ARE OPEN Special Financing Available

www.manasotaonline.com

350071-1

OUTDOOR KITCHENS & FIRE PITS

349368-1

1734 South Tamiami Trail Venice, FL 34293 941.493.7441

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

“This will be a true tee-to-green renovation. We’re redoing the fairways, the rough, the bunkers, the greens. We want our historical design modernized.”

JAY HEATER

line of plaques in a hallway at Palm Aire Country Club tell the proud story of legends of the game competing on what is now the Champions Course when it was DeSoto Lakes.

When the course first opened in 1957, it didn’t take long for the world’s best golfers to take notice. In the 1960 DeSoto Open, for example, Sam Sneed rallied to beat golfing heavyweights, such as Billy Casper, Doug Sanders, Arnold Palmer, Ken Venturi and Gary Player.

The next year, Hall of Famer Louise Suggs won the Golden Circle of Golf Festival event over the course. It was one of her 58 tour wins.

The course was the toast of Florida golf.

Then the years passed. DeSoto Lakes changed over to Palm Aire Country Club and the layout simply began to age.

As the century turned, Palm Aire Country Club members had listed the renovation of the Champions Course as a top priority. But before the work could be done, the recession hit. A strategic plan drawn up by the board went quiet in 2009.

The quiet period is over.

Joe Rassett, the club’s general manager and chief operating officer, said a multimilliondollar renovation will begin April 26. The entire course will be shut down as Michael J. Benkusky Golf Course Architecture begins work with the project expect to be completed by mid-November.

“This will be a true tee-togreen renovation,” Rassett said.

“We’re redoing the fairways, the rough, the bunkers, the greens.

We want our historical design modernized.”

The course was designed by noted architect Dick Wilson, who was known for elevating greens on relatively flat layouts and for using ponds and bunkers to force golfers to come into the greens with high iron shots as opposed to bouncing the ball in. Simple erosion and maintenance over the years had made the bunkers larger and the greens smaller. Wilson’s design was compromised.

The history of the course was of the utmost importance to the membership, so Rassett met with Mike Benkusky and asked him what he knew of Wilson. Benkusky was a golf history whiz, so Rassett knew it would be a good fit.

Rassett said the course will be reworked, so the middle tees most closely resemble Wilson’s original design. The modernization

|

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

Kindness grows with new garden

THIS WEEKEND!

Bradenton

HOME SHOW

Braden River Elementary invites students to take a rock or leave a rock to spread kindness.

LIZ RAMOS STAFF WRITER

B

efore Awa Behm, a first grader at Braden River Elementary School, left to move out of the area last week, she went to the school’s new kindness garden and picked up a small rock with an owl painted on it.

The rock was Behm’s way of being able to take a piece of Braden River Elementary with her.

“It made her feel special because she was sad about leaving,” said Tammy Peters, Behm’s teacher.

Peters’ class worked with their reading buddies in Joadie Durfee’s fifth grade class Jan. 26 to create kindness rocks. After the students were done painting positive messages, such as “I’m proud of you,” “You’re amazing,” and “You’re my sunshine,” on the rocks, they needed the perfect place to put them.

That place became apparent because 30 pre-K students had been working on a kindness garden.

In January, the school focused on kindness as part of its socialemotional curriculum. Pre-K teacher Cynthia Flores had her students talk about ways they could be kind. Focusing on kindness happened to coincide with the grade’s nature unit.

While doing activities in the garden, the students and their teachers came up with the idea to turn the garden into a kindness garden using positive messages

A Safe CDC-Compliant Event aka MANATEE CONVENTION CENTER

1 Haben Blvd. (US 301)

Palmetto, FL 34221

ONLY MINUTES FROM SARASOTA

FEB. 13 & 14

Sat 10am- 5pm • Sun 10am-4pm

Courtesy photos

Third grader Corbin Bennett helps deliver the rocks to the new kindness garden.

and pictures on rocks.

“We’re hoping the entire school gets involved with a simple kind word on a rock that might help make someone’s day,” Flores said.

“I would love to see and hear students around campus complimenting each other, saying nice things and just lifting spirits up.”

Flores said painting the kindness rocks was also an opportunity for the pre-K students to work on their reading and handwriting.

Flores said that she has enjoyed seeing students go to the garden to take a rock or leave a rock

EVERYTHING FOR IN & AROUND YOUR HOME!

• Builders • Landscapers • Contractors • Windows • Kitchens & Baths • Solar • Garden Displays & much more! n, Catersoo’ f e h C Meet f ‘Table for Tw o author s eminar S g n i k Coo kend All Wee

Welcome to an Unforgettable Dining Experience Sunday, February 14th

Produced by:

Brunch 10am to 2pm Dinner 4:30pm to 9:30pm

Reserve Now! (limited seating)

Largest Producer of Home Shows in Florida Sponsored by:

941.210.7368 | ciao@pascones.com 350665-1

Regular Menu or Special: Parmesan Crusted Sea Bass or Prime Rib $85 (includes Salad, Entree, Dessert and Bottle of Red or White Wine)

www.Pascones.com 5239 University Parkway (NW corner of University & Honore)

BradentonHomeShow.com 877.730.SHOW(7469)

350415-1

22A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

|

23A

GRAND OPENING!

ENROLL TODAY

For Introductory Rates!

• High quality, educational child care ages 6 wks to 12 yrs • Knowledgeable, caring, and highly trained staff • Low child-teacher ratios so children always receive the attentive care they need • Proprietary Discovery Point Connections Curriculum® • Before and After school care • Summer Camp and Winter and Spring break programs Landen Marshall, a pre-K student, places a kindness rock in the garden.

Pre-K students and teachers came up with the idea for the garden during the students’ nature unit and brainstorming ideas to spread kindness.

they’ve painted.

The garden also has blank rocks in case a student or staff member wants to decorate one.

“My biggest wonder is, are they sharing them?” Flores said. “Do they take them for themselves?

we

because we

“I have always been inspired by the notion that the measure of a civilization is how it treats its youngest members.” - Dr. Clough

Dr. Roger & Robin Clough

941-200-4250 SCHEDULE A TOUR OR ENROLL YOUR CHILD TODAY!

® OVER 12,000 SQ FT OF SPACE!

Explore. Learn. Grow.

7218 55th Ave. East (Twelve Oaks Plaza) Bradenton, FL 34203 www.discoverypoint.com/twelve-oaks

CARE

@DiscoveryPointTwelveOaks

351298-1

Some of the kindness rocks have pictures of avocados while others have pictures of bananas or other drawings.

Do they take them for their friends? I wish there was a way we could follow the rocks and see where they end up to see if they circle back into our garden or to see if someone takes one home to a family member.”

Being a part of the kindness garden has been a joy for students.

First grader Abby Stephens said the garden makes her happy because she’s spreading kindness to people that might need it.

The impact of the kindness garden has spread beyond Braden River Elementary School. Peters’ Girl Scout troop created kindness rocks for the garden as a campout activity.

Flores said the project has potential to expand into a rock river that will go throughout the whole garden.

OVER 25 YEARS OF EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE AS SUPERINTENDENT, PRINCIPAL AND TEACHER.

for you about

you.

We believe your doctor should get to know you personally, have the flexibility to see you at any time, and commit to delivering benefit-oriented care and advice tailored to your unique needs.

Discover how LernerCohen puts the CARE in Healthcare.

Schedule a meet and greet to see if concierge care is right for you.

The Doctor Is In. Always.™

Dr. Brad S. Lerner | Dr. Louis M. Cohen | Dr. James R. Cocco | Dr. Amy M. Roth

347205-1

941.953.9080 • LernerCohen.com 1921 Waldemere Street, Suite 814 • Sarasota, FL 34239

24A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

WHY DO MY LEGS HURT?

ADVERTISEMENT

By Adam N. Phillips, D.O, Board Certified General Surgeon & Vein Specialist

THERE ARE MANY REASONS – HERE ARE A FEW. Many reasons exist for leg pain. The lower part of our legs bears the burden of daily activities and can’t always live up to these tasks for myriad reasons.

Here are a few: • Muscle Cramps – Cramps occur during sleep or in the middle of the day and are a sudden, intense, cramping pain (Charley horse) that occurs when muscles are fatigued or dehydrated.

It’s a sign you need to drink more water, but relief can be found with massage or gentle stretching.

Am I at Risk for Vein Disease?

Find common risks and symptoms at floridalakesveincenter.com

• Shin splints – Muscles and skin along the edge of shin become inflamed, which causes pain with walking, running, or jumping. It’s often caused by repetitive activity on a hard surface, or by having flat or turned out feet.

Rest, ice, and Ibuprofen are the most common treatments and should be followed by stretching, wearing comfortable shoes, and avoiding running on hard surfaces.

• Tendinitis – Pain in the lower calf, which can be related to inflammation of Achilles tendon, is typically the result of an overworked calf muscle or climbing stairs. Again, ice and anti-inflammatory medications are best, followed by appropriate stretching.

• Vein disease – Legs can hurt from varicose vein and chronic venous insufficiency, too. Dark blue, twisted veins near the skin surface result from weak vein walls and malfunctioning valves. Some of the causes are genetics, obesity, hormones, and prolonged standing or sitting. Pooling blood can compress the nerves resulting in leg fatigue, cramping, swelling, skin color changes, unexplained itching, and restless leg symptoms. Left untreated, vein disease progresses at 4% per year.

If you feel your leg pain is caused by vein disease, or to rule it out, contact Florida Lakes Vein Center for a free vein screening. It’s a No Veiner!SM

Call for a FREE vein screening 941.866.8989 Florida Lakes Vein Center offers appointments in Lakewood Ranch on Tuesdays & Thursdays 8am-5pm 9114 Town Center Parkway Suite 101 | Lakewood Ranch 34202

An East County woman who had hidden a dead man’s body in a trash can admitted to Manatee County Sheriff’s detectives she used his disability income after concealing his body.

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office released an update on the case Feb. 4. The update said Michelle Haney, 48, spent more than $6,300 of Jon Christopher Leonard’s disability income that should have terminated upon his death. Detectives had confirmation of the expenditures through Haney’s bank records and purchase history.

Probable cause was established to charge Haney, who is in the Manatee County Jail, with criminal use of personal identification of a deceased individual and scheme to defraud.

Haney, who lived with Leonard at the Windmill Manor Mobile Home Park in Bradenton, already was in jail from a previous charge of abuse of a dead human body when the new charges were added. Leonard, who died in July 2020, was 40.

According to a Sheriff’s Office report, Haney found Leonard dead at their 5023 Windmill Manor Ave. home and, instead of calling authorities, stored his body in a closet, then later put the body inside a trash can, sealing it and taking it to a neighbor’s residence for storage. She told the neighbor, who was unaware of what was inside, that she would pick it up later.

She admitted doing it to use his Social Security benefits. The

cause of Leonard’s death still is undetermined, though the Sheriff’s Office reports said it appears to be natural causes.

Commissioner’s accounting error causes stir Manatee County Commissioner James Satcher said he submitted a $25 payment Feb. 5 to cover the $10 state certification fee he was required to pay during his candidacy along with a $15 return fee.

Satcher said he was in the process of switching bank accounts when he wrote the original $10 check. By the time the state was ready to process it, his old account had closed, resulting in a bounced payment.

Satcher received notification his payment was not accepted in December. He admitted he then forgot to submit payment for the original fee and return fee. Satcher said he spoke with Manatee County Attorney William Clague, who told him there is no concern about whether his votes as commissioner have been valid.

County receives more vaccines Another 5,100 seniors begin receiving their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine Feb. 10-12 at Tom Bennett Park in East County.

Manatee County 311 callers scheduled appointments with seniors who are registered in the county’s vaccination standby pool Feb. 8, according to a county news release.

a MUSIC & MOTORCYCLE FESTIVAL PRESENTING FESTIVAL SPONSORS

"United

PROCEEDS BENEFIT

We Ride - America Strong”

Motorcycle Charity Ride SUNDAY – FEBRUARY 21 Honorary Grand Marshal Sarasota Mayor Hagen Brody

Registration - 10:00 am til 11:30 am - Rossiter’s Harley-Davidson

$15 Per Rider

• Registration Includes Continental Breakfast • Festival Admission/Preferred Parking Inside The Festival • FREE Gift To The First 200 Registered Riders

Ride departs 11:45 am to the Sarasota Fairgrounds

This is an organized motorcycle group ride to pay a tribute to our veterans, active duty military, and first responders.

Riders are encouraged to display an American flag on their motorcycle in honor of our country.

MAJOR SPONSORS

351761-1

• Lower-extremity peripheral artery disease – Occurs when the arteries in the legs become damaged and hardened. When arteries are calcified with plaque, they can narrow or become blocked which prevents the legs from receiving oxygenated blood.

In the early stages, the pain can be relieved with rest. Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, uncontrolled diabetes, morbid obesity, and tobacco use. Lifestyle change is the best prevention. If all else fails, you may need surgery to improve blood flow to the leg.

• Varieties of nerve pain – Most common are narrowing of the spinal canal and sciatica. Arthritis of the spine can cause narrowing of the spinal canal, and a herniated disc can put pressure on nerve roots, which leads to burning, cramping leg pain with standing or sitting. Additional symptoms include numbness, tingling, fatigue, and weakness. Pain typically begins in the back or hip and extends down the back side of the leg. Treatment requires a combination of physical therapy, stretching, anti-inflammatory medication, or surgery. Diabetic neuropathy occurs when nerves in the legs are damaged from chronically elevated blood sugar levels causing pain in both legs with eventual numbness and loss of sensation.

More charges against woman who stored dead body in trash

349895-1

Avoid Waiting In Line Day Of Ride Pre-Register At: THUNDERBYTHEBAY.ORG Adam Phillips D.O. & T.C. Lackey II D.O.

A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE 1-800-HELP-FLA OR ONLINE AT www.FloridaConsumerHelp.com, REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.” REGISTRATION #: CH4531

FEBRUARY 11, 2021

HIGH

SPORTS

5

“It’s satisfying when you put in hard work at practice and can see it pay off.”

— Lakewood Ranch High’s Diego Munoz SEE PAGE 27A

Can Mustangs shine on diamond?

Mustangs softball looks different this year, but expectations remain high.

MOUND OF TROUBLE?

RYAN KOHN SPORTS REPORTER

A 1

Lakewood Ranch High girls basketball senior Taylor Young scored 22 points Feb. 3 in the Mustangs’ 53-44 home win against North Port.

2

Lakewood Ranch High girls soccer freshman Sophie Lemus scored two goals Feb. 2 in the Mustangs’ 8-0 home win against Lennard High.

3

Bob Bair sank a holein-one Feb. 1 on the No. 5 hole at University Park Country Club. Bair used a 9-iron on the 110-yard hole.

4

Ann Capobianco, Joe Leach, Don Moreau and Shaun Leach (27 under par) won the Kings and Queens event (best ball scoring) Feb. 6 at Palm Aire Country Club’s Champions course.

5

Cardinal Mooney High girls basketball sophomore and Lakewood Ranch resident Olivia Davis scored 14 points Feb. 3 in the Cougars’ 77-35 home win against Bradenton Christian.

s the 2021 high school softball season gets underway, it’s difficult for Lakewood Ranch High not to dwell on what might have been.

Thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 season consisted of just eight games. The Mustangs went 8-0, outscoring their opponents 83-4 and finishing atop MaxPreps’ national rankings.

Head Coach T.J. Goelz is confident his team could have won the state title last spring. He’s almost as confident his team would have been crowned the national champion in the rankings.

The Mustangs graduated eight players now on NCAA Division I teams, and not all of them were starters. That’s how immense the talent of the program was last season.

In 2021, things are different. Goelz said the team is good enough to win a state title if the team develops like he expects over the course of the season.

“We have always brought younger players onto the roster,” Goelz said. “We tell them: ‘Listen, this might not be your year.

You might not get the reps you want or any reps. But the growth you’re going to get from being around these older players will be worth it. You’re going to grow so much faster.’”

Goelz said Jillian Herbst and Sydney McCray are two examples of the Mustangs’ development system at work. Herbst, a senior outfielder, didn’t play much her freshman year until the last few weeks of the regular season. She proved herself in practice and earned playing time over some senior teammates. That postseason, Herbst hit .500, helping the team reach the state semifinals.

She never lost her starting spot and is now committed to Colgate University.

Photos by Ryan Kohn

Mustangs Coach T.J. Goelz says junior outfielder Sydney McCray has blossomed into an all-around player.

McCray, now a junior outfielder, played more immediately as a freshman, but only as a pinch runner.

“She was like a baby cheetah,” Goelz said. “Fast, but with limbs flailing all over the place. She was still learning how to play the game.”

That offseason, Goelz said,

Head Coach T.J. Goelz says he believes this year’s Mustangs can reach the state finals — if they keep developing.

McCray dedicated herself to becoming as well-rounded a player as her teammates. In last year’s shortened season, McCray hit .308.

Herbst and McCray, along with sophomore outfielder Cassidy McLellan, junior infielder Kelsey Vogel and senior infielder Faith Ross, are now team captains. They know the level of work required to reach the state finals, and they believe this team has what it takes.

“Everyone on the team has this natural athleticism,” McCray said. “The coaches give us 100% of themselves out here, and we’re going to do the same for them.”

Herbst said simply wearing a uniform again is a blessing after last season. She said she took an extra minute looking at it in her mirror before the team’s first practice.

She wanted to soak it in. Lakewood Ranch is a special program, she said, and there is a lot of history to live up to.

“The expectations don’t change,” Herbst said. “This group is going to make its own legacy.”

Mustangs Coach T.J. Goelz isn’t concerned about his team’s offense; that’s where the majority of his team’s returnees contributed in the past. More questions have emerged about the team’s pitching staff. Every player who threw a pitch during the 2020 season is gone. In place will be three pitchers — junior Ella Coiner, sophomore Olivia Laney and sophomore Peyton Knight — trying to lock down the ace position.

Of the three, Laney is the only one with varsity experience. She transferred to the Mustangs from Seacrest Country Day High in Naples.

She holds a 1.08 earned run average for her career over 31 appearances.

(Laney played the varsity team as an eighth grader.)

Even though Seacrest plays a lower level of softball (2A) than Lakewood Ranch (7A), Goelz said he’s encouraged by her results and eager to see if she can replicate them for the Mustangs.

If she can, or if Coiner or Knight prove themselves, it would be a boost to the team’s title hopes.

Are YOU Ready to LOVE Where You Live?

LAKEWOOD RANCH REAL ESTATE LOCAL PERSPECTIVE | LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

349517-1

MICHAEL & COURTNEY CHENKUS LOCAL Lakewood Ranch Residents LOCAL Knowledge | LOCAL Experience | ALWAYS Trusted

CALL US TODAY!

941.348.2653 EMAIL

Contact@chenkus.com

www.soldbychenkus.com

26A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

PROSE AND KOHN

RYAN KOHN

Remembering a Bradenton Motorsports stalwart

O

n the table sat a jar of moonshine, a container of cigars and a Bible.

There was no better way to remember Daniel Stone, who everyone called “Chaps,” than by highlighting three of his favorite things.

Stone, 56, died Jan. 29 from injuries suffered during an accident at Bradenton Motorsports Park, where he worked for 15 years. I didn’t know Stone personally, but based on the turnout Feb. 3 at his public memorial service at the park, the East County racing community did. Hundreds came to the park to swap stories, shed tears and even share a few laughs in Stone’s memory.

Common themes connected almost everyone’s stories of Stone. He was happy, making sure to greet racers in the park’s staging lanes with a smile. His faith was always at the forefront of his mind; “I’m blessed, privileged and highly favored,” Stone would tell anyone who asked how he was doing, no matter what was happening in his personal or work lives. But it was not just his attitude that made Stone such a memorable and beloved figure at the park. It was his willingness to help others, no matter how big or small the task.

Todd Dickinson said at the service that the track crew once discovered an alligator under one of the park’s trailers. Stone was the one who volunteered to get

Facebook photo

Daniel “Chaps” Stone, 56, died Jan. 29. He worked at Bradenton Motorsports Park for 15 years.

rid of it, even though he had no idea what he was doing. Dickinson said Stone got the alligator to bite a broom, then tackled it from behind, wrapped up its jaws in tape and carried it to a nearby pond, where he unwrapped its jaws and let it go free.

Others had similar stories.

There was nowhere he would rather be than the track, and there were no people he would rather be with than the racing community — except for his family.

Jenn Gage, a friend of the Stone family for 20 years, said the bond between Stone and his family was unshakable. He was a great husband to his wife Karen and a great father through good times and bad times, and he was

Ryan Kohn

Jasmine Stone says her father, Daniel, was a friend to everyone.

loyal.

That carried over to his work on the track.

“I know he’s up there watching over the speedway to heaven,” Gage said. “I can see him.”

Jasmine Stone, Stone’s daughter, said during the service that he was the strongest person she knew. He taught her scripture and the value of hard work, she said. She didn’t get it when she was young, but as she grew, she saw the value in what he taught her.

“It’s going to suck not having him around,” Jasmine Stone said.

“But I know he wouldn’t want us to be down. He would want us to

celebrate him and his love.”

And that’s what people did.

After the memorial, people gathered and partook in one of Stone’s favorite activities: drinking a beer.

The Stone family has created a Go Fund Me page for people to make donations toward Stone’s funeral costs and other expenses.

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

RECOVERED FROM

COVID-19?

Get a

50

$

AMAZON GIFT CARD

345380-1

Every Time You Successfully Donate Convalescent Plasma!

Did you know?

You can donate plasma every 14 days!

$

50

Learn more and get started at suncoastblood.org.

1-866-97-BLOOD

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

27A

Visit Custom Carts - Florida’s Largest Golf Cart Dealer with 7 Locations

SOCIAL DISTANCE

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.

Diego Munoz is a sophomore wrestler at Lakewood Ranch High. Munoz went 3-0 in competition at the Venice Duals on Feb. 1. Coach Pat Ancil said he also holds a 4.15 GPA. When did you start wrestling?

I started wrestling my freshman year. I just wanted to try something different. I have always been an energetic person, and I thought wrestling might be a good way of getting that energy out.

What is the appeal to you?

I love the feeling of winning. It’s satisfying when you put in hard work at practice and can see it pay off.

What is your best skill?

I’m good at takedowns. I’m a good technician in that way. I can do the little things right.

on a Golf Cart!

What is your favorite TV show?

I like “The Office” a lot. That is an all-time classic to me.

250 OFF Golf Cart or

$

Which superpower would you pick?

I would pick teleportation.

A GOLF CART SUPERSTORE for All Your Golf Cart Needs

2021 Club Car Onward for as low as $200 a month with 0% interest for 48 months*

What is the best advice you have received?

Coach [Pat Ancil] always says, “Suck it up, buttercup,” when we’re doing something hard in practice. That resonates with me.

I have never been a quitter. I don’t want to give up. I’m going to push through whatever I’m doing and see it out.

Expires 3/1/21

4515 15th Street East Bradenton, FL 34203

4802 Lena Rd, Unit 101 Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211

350851-1

Diego Munoz

941-841-1083 www.customcarts.com

*Offers not valid with any other offers or discounts. Limit one per customer. Financing subject to 2% processing fee. Additional terms from Sheffield Financial may apply. A $100 origination fee is included in the loan amount.

PLAY WHERE THE PROS PLAY! Host to the 2021 US Open Qualifier!

Finish this sentence: Diego Munoz is …

Determined. I tend to accomplish whatever I want because I put my all into it.

Average Rating: Overall Condition: Value: Staff Friendliness: Course Conditions:

What has been your biggest challenge?

I’m not as good when I’m on the bottom. That’s the biggest thing I’m trying to improve.

There’s no better time than now to think about a golf membership!

What is your favorite memory?

My first junior varsity tournament last year is still my favorite.

I was nervous, but I went 3-0 and got all three wins by pin. That felt good. I was wrestling at 126 pounds then.

Single & Family Memberships: • Full Executive • Sr. Executive (75 yrs. young) • Jr. Executive • Young Executive • No F&B Minimum • 60/90 Day Trial Golf Programs

What is your favorite food?

I love hibachi food, like hibachi chicken. I love the flavor of that.

Open to the Public

#1 in Customer Service

CCC 014 711 Roofing Contractor

CCC 016 171 Building Contractor

WE ARE THE AREA’S LEADING

RE-ROOF SPECIALISTS

941.756.4259

For Tee Times Call 941.744.9771

For Membership Call Janice 941.718.4848 or jreed@waterlefeFL.com

1022 Fish Hook Cove, Bradenton | waterlefegolfandriverclub.com Host to the US Open Qualifying Tournament an unprecedented six times.

PLAY THE BEST!

ONLINE: www.ApprovedRoofingLLC.com SERVING FLORIDA’S GULF COAST FOR OVER 40 YEARS

BEST

COUNTRY CLUB VALU E

BY FAR! Come

an our amazind see g ne amenities. w

Bring this Coupon to receive

3 OFF

$

Full Rack Rate VALID BEFORE 1PM FOR UP TO 4 PLAYERS VALID THRU 2/28/21

* *Restrictions apply.

See server for full details.

349590-1

SPECIAL RATES

EARLY BIRD ONLINE SPECIAL AS LOW AS

80 $ 40 $

BEFORE 8AM

TWILIGHT ONLINE SPECIAL AS LOW AS

AFTER 3PM

VALID THRU 2/28/21 RATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE

5100 87th Street East | Lakewood Ranch | 941.753.6200 rosedalecountryclub.com

347849-1

347381-1 1

GAF CertainTeed Owens Corning TAMKO Firestone • Residential Commercial Repairs Maintenance • Financing Available

Shingles Tile • Metal Modifieds Built-Up Single Ply Membrane Aluminum Fascia • Soffit Siding Gutters Rotted Wood Replacement

350047-1

NO JOB TOO TOUGH. NO JOB TOO ROUGH!

28A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

There has never been a better time to sell your property

WATERBURY TRACTS 4800 County Road 675 $19,000,000 Andrew Tanner & Peter Laughlin 941.539.0998

SARASOTA 15111 Gaddy Up Ranch Road $5,895,000 Peter Laughlin 941.356.8428

The Gulf Coast Luxury Leader Thanks to our valued customers and talented team of professionals, we are proud to announce

LAKEWOOD RANCH 7412 Greystone Street $1,225,000 Jim Soda & Laura Stavola 941.961.5857

ENGLEWOOD GARDENS 1285 Bayshore Drive $2,245,000 Victoria Stultz 941.387.5676

SARASOTA 5013 Fielding Lane $1,350,000 Mike Warm 941.525.2740

MYAKKA VALLEY Westwood Court $549,000 Holly Switow & Devon Davis 941.735.3186

WINTER GARDENS 1134 Ell Way $389,900 Sandra Appignani & Mark Baumgarten

941.320.1002

THE LAKE CLUB

SARASOTA POLO CLUB

16505 Baycross Drive $2,995,000 Jim Soda & Laura Stavola 941.961.5857

LAKEWOOD RANCH 6923 Belmont Court $2,120,000 Linda Apple 941.586.0553

PRESTANCIA 3988 Losillias Drive $949,000 Joel Schemmel & Sharon Chiodi 941.587.4894

UNIVERSITY PARK

BOCA ROYALE

LAKEWOOD RANCH

71 Grande Fairway $879,900 Bob Linthicum 941.228.9206

7636 Portstewart Drive $699,000 Kevin Luehrs 954.294.2547

6419 Moorings Point Circle #201 $525,000 Michelle Crabtree 941.724.4663

4500 Murcia Boulevard $499,000 Ziad Sleit 941.928.5493

DEER CREEK

CENTRAL PARK

8484 Woodbriar Drive $679,000 Wanda Martinetto 941.773.7807

THE CONCESSION 19439 Beacon Park Place $419,000 Jim Soda & Laura Stavola 941.961.5857

ISLES OF SARASOTA 1800 Burgos Drive $329,000 Linda Dooley 941.400.7359

in Total Company Sales Volume for 2020

6779 Ashley Court $1,374,900 Mike Warm 941.525.2740

SARASOTA

HERITAGE OAKS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

$7.1 Billion

ASHLEY

8350 Carolina Street $1,600,000 Peter Laughlin 941.356.8428

THE MOORINGS AT EDGEWATER

4605 Samoset Drive $349,000 Linda Dooley & Dwight Dooley 941.400.7359

8075 Whiskey Pond Lane $2,450,000 Jim Soda & Laura Stavola 941.961.5857

12073 Longview Lake Circle $590,000 Jim Soda & Laura Stavola 941.961.5857

THE CONCESSION 19419 Beacon Park Place $419,000 Jim Soda & Laura Stavola 941.961.5857

WHITFIELD ESTATES 7206 Meadowbrook Drive $325,000 Roberta Tengerdy & Carolyn Collins 941.321.2292

VILLAGEWALK 5629 Modena Place $419,000 Robert Sherman 941.313.1301

SARASOTA 9406 Forest Hills Circle $319,900 Ken Ipox 941.993.7279

UNIVERSITY VILLAGE 2917 Trustee Avenue $319,500 Katina Shanahan & Ken Shanahan 941.702.0437

SALES GALLERY NOW OPEN W H E R E S A R AS O TA’ S D O W N TO W N M E E T S T H E BAY F R O N T

Artist’s Rendering

Bayso Sarasota’s new Sales Gallery is now open in Premier Sotheby’s Downtown office.

Priced from the $800,000s, this luxurious 18 story, 149 residence condominium has become the most anticipated new downtown address. Visit the new Sales Gallery located inside Premier Sotheby’s International Realty to learn about this exciting community.

S P E C I A L D E V E L O P E R I N C E N T I V E S AVA I L A B L E F O R A L I M I T E D T I M E | 941.220.0828 | Bayso.com

ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE SELLER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS BROCHURE AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A SELLER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. This project has been filed in the State of Florida and no other state. This is not an offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy the condominium units in states where such offer or solicitation cannot be made. Prices and availability are subject to change at any time without notice. This is a limited time offer. Developer may withdraw offering at any time. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

348054-1

Visit or call us for a private consultation

ListWithUsToday.com | 877.539.9865

LAKEWOOD RANCH | 941.907.9541 SARASOTA - DOWNTOWN | 941.364.4000 LONGBOAT KEY | 941.383.1526 VENICE TO PUNTA GORDA | 941.412.3323 RENTALS | 941.364.4032

PremierSothebysRealty.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.

Classifieds 17B Games 16B Real Estate 13B Weather 16B

FEBRUARY 11, 2021

YOUR NEIGHBORS Mary RookerSmith still holds onto the Valentine’s Day card her husband, Don, gave her when they were 13.

LIFETIME OF LOVE

Photos by Liz Ramos

Mary and Don Rooker-Smith have cherished their time together through 61 years of marriage.

A valentine for life

A 71-year-old Valentine’s Day card still tells the story for an East County couple.

LIZ RAMOS STAFF WRITER

W

hen Mary Rooker-Smith looks at the card, it means as much as it did 71 years ago when Don Rooker-Smith gave it to her in their homeland of Kenya.

Or perhaps it means even more as the days, years and decades pass.

Last week, after Mary took the Valentine’s Day card out of her Bible, her forever safekeeping place, Don slid it across a table at their home at East County’s Stone

River Retirement Community.

The card has a picture of a boy and girl dancing.

Mary said they both were 13 when Don sent her the card while he was away at boarding school.

“I offered her to be my valentine,” Don said with a laugh.

He then told her she could write if she wanted.

“I remember that,” Mary said, as she laughed as well. “I thought he was a rather special fellow. I got this nice card from this wonderful fellow, who was a brilliant polo player.”

They eventually laminated the card, so they could keep it forever.

Ge

ne

347357-1

A/C

Plu

g mbin

ra to

rs

The two love birds who started it all many Moons ago. Stewart & Trudy Moon!

Ele

ctr

ica

l

MARY AND DON ROOKERSMITH Ages: Both 84 Residence: Stone River Retirement Community in East County Married: 61 years (Sept. 26, 1959) Family: Daughters Zoë, Sally, Jane and Anne; seven grandchildren

“It brings back happy memories and reminds me of how thankful I am that this girl said she’d marry me,” Don said. “That was the best thing of all.”

From that first card, it took another 10 years, but Don and Mary eventually were married.

Now 84, they have looked at that Valentine’s Day card for the past 61 years as a married couple.

As kids, Mary lived on Kaptagat Farm, which was about 40 miles away from Don’s farm, Merrowdown Farm, in the town of Eldoret. Their farms were in the middle of the wild in western Kenya, near the Ugandan border.

Even though it was a substantial distance between their homes, connected by a “rickety dirt road,” their families knew each other because of their agriculture connection and because of polo.

In their region in Kenya, many children had horses and would spend the weekends playing polo

at the Muthaiga Country Club in Nairobi.

“The parties were legendary,” Don said with a laugh. “Every year at New Year’s, we would have the most tremendous parties. We worked hard and played hard and had a good life.”

They originally met when they were 10 at a “pony club,” where children could take their horses for education in equitation. Their families were similar in that they were well off, but because of their location, there were hardships too.

“We grew up in a wonderfully privileged life, all outdoors and on good land,” Don said. “But the first refrigerator I saw was when I was about 18.”

Life was good for Don, though, as long as he was riding a horse.

Both their families loved polo, and Don, as Mary put it, was “the best in Kenya.”

As Mary talked about Don’s prowess on the polo field, she reached out and grasped his shoulder.

His modesty emerged.

“Oh, no, don’t say I was the best because there were a lot of good Kenyan players,” he said sternly.

“I know, but they weren’t as good as you,” Mary said.

Don brought the attention back to his wife.

“Mary was a good polo player too,” Don said, who noted that all of Mary’s siblings were good at polo as well. He said they were part of a team that would win all the competitions they entered.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2B

Happy Valentine’s Day!

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

“He’s wonderful in every possible way. He really is.

He always has been.”

FROM PAGE 1B

“They were practically unbeatable,” he said.

Unfortunately, their varying education careers kept them apart. Don went to boarding school from January to March, May to July and September to November with the other months being spent at home on vacation. Mary went to school near her home after her mother created a school because there was nowhere to send her older brothers. Don then went to an English agricultural university while Mary attended finishing school.

Life was exciting when they married in 1959. The reception was held in Mary’s family garden that had a river running through it. The honeymoon consisted of a drive through the Belgian Congo.

“He’s wonderful in every possible way,” Mary said. “He really is. He always has been.”

The Rooker-Smith family grew when Mary and Don had their four daughters, Zoë, Sally, Jane and Anne. Just like Mary and Don, the girls learned how to ride horses. It was a great way of life that was forced to change when Kenya earned its independence four years after their marriage.

The British government bought up a million acres of agricultural land to return to native Kenyans.

“Things were going well, and then all that land was bought by the British government, so that all came to a halt, bang,” Don said as he tapped his fingers on the table in front of him. “It took a long time to get over that, and consequently, people like me weren’t equipped to cope with that sort of thing. It was quite hard.”

Don and Mary moved their

A CORONARY ARTERY CALCIUM SCORE COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE

By The Marketing Department at Manatee Physician Alliance

If you are at risk for heart disease, Bradenton Cardiology Center has a screening test that can help detect the amount of calcium deposits, or plaque, in coronary arteries.

“WOMEN AGED 55 AND OLDER AND MEN AGED 45 AND OLDER MAY CONSIDER GETTING THE TEST FOR HEART DISEASE AS WELL.” The Cardiologists at Bradenton Cardiology Center say calcium scores can be an important tool to diagnose atherosclerotic coronary artery disease. Patients with risk factors such as family history of heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, overweight, diabetes, being a smoker or living an inactive or stressful lifestyle should consider getting the Coronary Artery Calcium Score test. Women aged 55 and older and men aged 45 and older may consider getting the test for heart disease as well.

noninvasive test takes approximately 15 minutes. There are no needles, dyes or liquids to swallow.

The test costs only $50 and is done right at Bradenton Cardiology Center and Lakewood Ranch Medical Center.

The Bradenton Cardiology Center has two convenient locations:

Bradenton 316 Manatee Ave W Bradenton, FL 34205 Phone: 941-748-2277 Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Lakewood Ranch 8340 Lakewood Ranch Blvd, Suite 210 Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 Phone: 941-556-8930 Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

family to Brazil, where they felt they could invest in farmland to continue their lifestyle. They all learned to speak Portuguese.

Mary said it was an easier transition for Jane and Anne, the two youngest daughters who were 5 years old and 4 years old, respectively, at the time. For Zoë, who was 12 at the time, and Sally, who was 9, it wasn’t as easy.

Mary and Don decided to send Zoë and Sally to English schooling in South Africa, and Mary went with them. The couple’s time apart was terrible, Mary said.

“It was difficult for the whole family,” Don said. “But we weathered it.”

In 1982, they moved to Florida to start new again. They built their life together.

From 2001, when Don retired, to 2016, they would return to Kenya to vacation at a seaside home at Sand Island Beach, which is right on the Indian Ocean, with their children and seven grandchildren. The home has been in Mary’s family since 1940.

“It’s a wonderful property because it has a coral reef that was exposed at low tide, and you could walk on it,” Mary said.

Don and Mary would ride camels, play on the beach and rediscover the land where they spent their childhood.

“There’s nothing like the smell of Africa, the rain on dust and the open plains,” Don said.

Mark A. Dreyer, DPM

To learn more, visit www.bradentoncardiology.com

Board Certified, Podiatric Surgeon

The Coronary Artery Calcium score test uses specialized CT scan technology to calculate a score based on the volume and density of calcium present, which is a marker for the presence of underlying atherosclerotic heart plaque. The

Dr. Mark Dreyer brings to Intercoastal Medical Group at the Beneva Professional Center and the Lakewood Ranch I offices a wealth of knowledge and experience in Podiatry.

Undergraduate: Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL Medical School: Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ Residency: Podiatric Medicine, Reconstructive Rearfoot and Ankle Surgical Residency, Westside Medical Center, Plantation, FL Fellowship: Reconstruction and Limb Salvage Surgical Fellowship, Family Foot & Leg Center, Naples, FL Certifications: American Board of Foot & Ankle Surgery; American Board of Wound Management; American Board of Podiatric Medicine

Pictured left to right above: Jeffery E. Rossi, MD, FACC, Charles Cevallos, DO, MPH, Bruce R Lipskind, MD, FACC, Daniel E Friedman, MD, FACC, FHRS, S. Jay Mathews, MD, MS, FACC, FSCAI, James Nguyen, MD, FACC, FSCAI, Jeffrey M. Rothfeld, MD, FACC, Eugene M. Parent, MD, FACC, David C. Buck, DO, FACC, Brian, W. Holyk, DO, Jared A. Collins, DO

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS!

TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT, PLEASE CALL

941-362-8662

351196-1

Physicians are on the medical staff of Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Lakewood Ranch Medical Center. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the non-discrimination notice, visit our website.

Health Observed allows brands and businesses to connect directly with the Observer’s readership — and participate in the conversation — by creating engaging content on the Observer’s digital publishing platform.

For more on Health Observed, email us at kohara@yourobserver.com.

— Mary Rooker-Smith

WELCOMES

349359-1

2B

Lakewood Ranch I

Beneva Professional Center

11505 Rangeland Parkway,1st Floor Bradenton, FL 34211

943 S. Beneva Road, Suite #113 Sarasota, FL 34232

www.intercoastalmedical.com Medicare and most insurances accepted

A Patient Focused, Multi-Specialty Group l National Expertise l Multiple Locations

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

3B

LET US HELP NAVIGATE YOUR HEALTHCARE SERVICES HIV & STD TESTING & TREATMENT HEPATITIS C TESTING & TREATMENT PrEP SERVICES CASE MANAGEMENT TRANSPORTATION SERVICES MEDICAL PEER NAVIGATORS BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES DENTAL CARE SEXUAL HEALTH AUTHORIZED RYAN WHITE PROVIDER LIVER FIBROSCAN® DIABETES SCREENING BLOOD PRESSURE SCREENING RESEARCH PROGRAM MAJOR INSURANCE ACCEPTED GET TESTED. BE INFORMED. STAY HEALTHY.

SARASOTA

NORTH PORT

PALMETTO

1231 N. TUTTLE AVE. SARASOTA, FL 34237 941- 366-0134

14243 TAMIAMI TRAIL NORTH PORT, FL 34287 941-888-2144

408 7TH STREET WEST PALMETTO, FL 34221 941-803-7939

CANCOMMUNITYHEALTH.ORG FOLLOW US:   instagram linkedin

351492-1

SERVICES VARY BY LOCATION

4B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

Pickleball’s a big deal P

River Strand resident Mary Becker has been playing pickleball for about three years.

ickleball players from East County and beyond came to Lakewood Ranch on Feb. 6 to participate in UMR Sports’ first-ever pickleball tournament.

The tournament sold out, with 50 players participating in the women’s and men’s divisions. The tournament was held for people with 3.0 and 3.5 ratings, or intermediate-level pickleball players. Chandra Moore, a former professional tennis player who will provide pickleball instruction at UMR Sports, said that she was excited to see the camaraderie between players.

“We went with a lower bracket to involve more people, to give them the confidence to be able to play,” Moore said. “Some of them haven’t ever played a tournament. So we’re like: ‘Come, try. Hey, this is our first time. Let it be your first time.’”

UMR Sports is a Bradenton-based athletic academy that will soon begin construction on a sports complex located on Upper Manatee River Road. Pickleball courts will be one of the first amenities completed at the complex, said UMR Sports’ founder and owner, Ryan Moore,

Photos by Brendan Lavell

River Strand’s Deb Clawson, Stonybrook’s Jacque Marks, River Strand’s Cindy Cail and River Strand’s Roxann Viera exchange pleasantries after their match, a 15-14 victory for Marks and Viera.

— BRENDAN LAVELL

EXPERTISE

MAKES THE DIFFERENCE Comprehensive Implant Dentistry by Internationally Renowned Specialists

Interior Design | Unique Furnishings | Home Accessories

IMPLANT TEETH IN A DAY | SECOND OPINIONS SECURE LOOSE DENTURES | ALL ON 4 BRIDGES One of the nation’s leading authorities in implant dentistry practices right here in Sarasota.

DR. CRAIG MISCH lectures internationally and has faculty appointments at three dental schools - Univ. of Michigan, U of F & UAB. He has authored numerous scientific publications and is on the editorial boards of several journals.

CHECK OUR REVIEWS ONLINE

www.drmisch.com

Katherine E. Misch DMD Specialist in Prosthodontics & Teeth in a Day Craig M. Misch DDS, MDS Specialist in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery & Prosthodontics

“Convenient, gentle, and painless from beginning to end.” - Stan B

351542-1

120 South Tuttle Ave | Sarasota, Florida 34237

(941) 957-6444

Get Honest, Family Friendly, Personalized Service!

• Customized insurance coverage based on your lifestyle, budget, and specific needs.

• Explanation of your policy options and importance of each component of your coverage.

Laura Bassler Cota & Mark Schuetz

✔ Auto Insurance ✔ Homeowners Insurance ✔ Boat / Motorcycle / RV ✔ Flood Insurance “If what you have is better, we will tell you, not sell you.”

Contact Us Today for a FREE Consultation & No-Obligation Quote!

941.567.4430 | www.thecotagroupinsurance.com 11009 Gatewood Drive, Suite 104 | Lakewood Ranch 34211 (Canterbury Commons Office Park)

Insurance Agency

Serving Manatee County for over 20 years.

348488-1

339926-1

DR. KATHERINE MISCH has been delivering dental care for more than 25 years. She caters to patients who demand the knowledge and expertise of a specialist with an eye for achieving a natural perfection in dental restorations.

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

5B

Natural treatment for

LOW BACK PAIN is now covered

by Medicare!

Above: River Strand residents Cindy Cail and Deb Clawson tap rackets after losing a point. They have both been playing pickleball for about three years.

Right: Lakewood Ranch resident Dana Townson prepares to serve the ball. She has been playing pickleball for about six months. Townson and west Bradenton resident Daria Zoller won their first match 15-8.

LISA GRIFFITH-LIMON DPM Diplomate, American Board of Foot & Ankle Surgery. Board Certified in Foot Surgery.

Good Life Healing Center

NOW

ACCEPTING MEDICARE

WE PROMOTE HEALTHY FEET! For more info Call Now! 941-301-8485 CLIENT: PUBLICATION:

We treat all kinds of foot problems from Bunions, Heel Pain, Fungal Nails, Diabetic Foot Care, Plantar Fasciitis and more with surgical, nonsurgical and laser treatments.

SCHEDULE TODAY!

Sarasota Observer Turner Pest Control office@goodlifehealing.com 347769-1

SHAUN J. LIMON DPM

Diplomate, American Board of Multiple Specialties in Podiatry Board Certified in Primary Care in Podiatric Medicine

TREATMENTS INCLUDE • Massage Therapy • Acupuncture • Cupping

DESIGNER: Lena Shore, lena@lenashore.com

5325 Lena Rd., Suite 101, AD SIZE: 5”W x 8”H DATE: FILE NAME: Bradenton ,FL 34211 January 8, 2021 2:42 PM COLOR: Full Color - nowww.goodlifehealing.com bleed TurnerAd-SarasotaObserverNewspaper-Vertical-quarter

Serving Manatee County since 1998

Turner Pest Control welcomes Hobson’s Termite and Pest Solutions to the Family!

OPEN BY APPOINTMENT

348757-1

AND FOLLOWING CDC SAFETY PROTOCOLS

941.782.8639

11065 Gatewood Drive, Bldg C-2, Lakewood Ranch

4614 26th Street West, Bradenton | LimonsFoot.com

WE TREAT YOUR HOME LIKE OURS Discounts Available for First Responders, Veterans & Teachers.

Turner Pest Control, an Anticimex company, has been providing comprehensive pest control services to residential and commercial clients in Florida and South Georgia for 50 years.

“

Hobson’s Termite and Pest Solutions is a first-class addition to the Turner team. They’ve made it a priority to provide exceptional customer service from a highly trained staff and customized programs for their customers. We are committed to making sure Hobson’s customers continue to receive the same high level of service and attention.”

— BILL TALON, PRESIDENT TURNER PEST CONTROL

Professional Measuring, Installation & Repair Custom draperies, upholstered cornices & more Motorized Window Coverings | Custom Vertical Blinds Visit our showroom today to speak with our home customization expert

(941) 269-2450 • TURNERPEST.COM

1910 Bay Rd (Bee Ridge & HWY 41), Sarasota

www.blindsandservice.com | 941.924.7800

Family owned Steven LeBlanc and Steven Jr.

343856-1

Our Showroom is Conveniently Located next to Ricos Pizzeria 350924-1

348753-1

MOST INSURANCE ACCEPTED

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

Blanketed with kindness The Out-of-Door Academy students raise money to donate blankets to shelters in Sarasota as part of the Blankets of Hope project.

LIZ RAMOS STAFF WRITER

E

Photos by Liz Ramos

Freshmen Gavin Gargano, Alexa Rouen and Joseph Clarke show off their letters and blankets. ODA students in pre-K through 12th grade participated in the Blankets of Hope project.

leven freshmen from The Out-of-Door Academy sat in the library Feb. 5 with the lights off and their eyes closed.

They were told to imagine themselves in a big city sitting on a sidewalk, feeling the pangs of hunger from not eating for two days.

They were told to imagine someone noticing them, and rather than providing a helping

hand, the person tells them to get a job.

Students imagined themselves as dirty, disgusted and defeated as they continued to try to hold a job but kept getting fired because they didn’t have clean clothes and a place to call home every night.

Then they imagined someone approaching them on that sidewalk and offering a blanket with a handwritten letter expressing a message of hope.

After opening their eyes, the freshmen were asked to reflect on what they imagined before trying to understand how thousands of homeless people throughout the country feel the same way every day.

Students then wrote their own letters of hope to tie onto purple blankets as part of a project for the nonprofit Blankets of Hope, which partners with schools to raise money to provide blankets to people who are homeless.

BUY ★ SELL ★ TRADE — 2 Guys —

GUN SHOW FEB 13 & 14

Presidents Day Sale

Robarts Arena • 3000 Ringling Blvd • Sarasota

10% Off Store Wide &

Saturday 9am - 5pm • Sunday 9am - 3pm

Guns, knives, accessories, ammo, parts and so much more! r 2 Hou FREE P $1 OFF admission W Parkin C with this ad s g! e s s Cla

15% Off Floor Models

Feb. 11 to 16, closed Sun.

Also join us in

Heirloom-quality furniture by Amish woodworkers

Largo: Feb 20 & 21 | Port Charlotte: Mar 20 & 21 For more information:

Contact Guy 727-776-3442 • 2guysshows.com

Valentine’s SALE! 20

%

OFF

ROSES & ORCHIDS through 2/17

FARM & GARDEN Your Farm & Garden offers a wide variety of top quality plants and products perfect for your Florida garden, landscape, office or home.

Local Garden Specialists are on hand to make sure your project gets off to the right start.

PLANTS & GARDEN ACCESSORIES SINCE 1953 3 ACRE GARDEN CENTER • NURSERY SW FL POTTERY CENTER

VOTED #1 GARDEN CENTER IN SARASOTA 735 South Beneva Road, Sarasota, FL 34232 941.366.4954 • www.YourFarmandGarden.com

350807-1

hours: 10 AM to 5 PM,

3709 N Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota, FL (941) 894-6747 dutchcrafters.com

Visit us on Facebook

Installations • Licensed • Planning & Design • Insured • Referrals Upon Request

351162-1

Don’t miss out! Store sale

350067-1

6B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

7B

BRAND NEW HOMES Starting from the $90’s in Ellenton

Thinking of downsizing?

A smaller home doesn’t have to mean giving up on lifestyle!

Freshman Annabelle Basler ties her note to a blanket. She wrote a letter reminding the recipient that people do care.

— Amy Kwakya-Amoah

The service project was an opportunity for students in pre-K through 12th grade to bring kindness, empathy and inspiration to people in Sarasota experiencing homelessness.

“It’s cool being able to see yourself in other people’s shoes and be more aware of what’s happening around you,” freshman Amy Kwakya-Amoah said.

Students at the Uihlein Campus

in Lakewood Ranch donated $5 to earn a Dress Down Day, which is a day that students don’t have to abide by the school’s dress code.

Melinda Lloyd, one of the coordinators of the project at the school, said both ODA’s campuses donated 575 blankets to Resurrection House, the Salvation Army and the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office homeless outreach team.

Freshman Joseph Clarke was grateful to participate in the project.

“It feels great because I know, especially in larger cities, people go unnoticed,” Clarke said. “It feels good to help them.”

Freshman Christopher Nightingale hopes his letter makes the blanket recipient feel loved and gives the recipient hope that life will get better.

Gated • Private Marina • Pickleball Courts 6 Swimming Pools • 5 Clubhouses • 2 Fitness Centers • On-site Dog Park • Riverside Pavilion

Sales Center Open 7 Days a Week

Call to schedule a private tour or a virtual showing!

(855) 273-2306

EQUAL HOUSING

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

348726-1

“It’s cool being able to see yourself in other people’s shoes and be more aware of what’s happening around you.”

Limited Time Special Pricing Happening Now!

OPPORTUNITY

residency requirements. Additional restrictions may apply, see associate for full details.

The Home Service Pros Who Care

The Area’s most Trusted Name since 1974

Starting at

4,800!

$

+ 12 Months 0% Financing Available!

Some restrictions apply. This offer applies to a 1.5 T, 14 SEER HVAC System with heat strip and thermostat included. Includes reconnection to existing ductwork, wiring, refrigerant piping and drain. Not valid on prior purchases and cannot combine offers.

Limited time offer.Contact Aqua Plumbing & Air for details.

Offer expires 2/28/2021.

250 OFF

100 OFF

$

Reme Halo Air Purifier

Cannot be combined with other offers.

Contact Aqua Plumbing & Air for details.

Offer expires 2/28/2021.

SERVICES INCLUDE: Complete Home Rewiring Standby Generators & Service Repairs on All Generators Surge Protection

Cannot be combined with other offers.

Contact Aqua Plumbing & Air for details.

Offer expires 2/28/2021.

FREE

$

Whole House Water Treatment System

LET AQUA HELP YOU ON YOUR NEXT ELECTRICAL PROJECT!

AND SO MUCH MORE!!

Water Quality Analysis ($99 value)

CALL NOW! 941.866.6210

or visit www.AquaPlumbingSarasota.com

Cannot be combined with other offers. Must present coupon at time of service.Contact Aqua Plumbing & Air for details.

Offer expires 2/28/2021.

Lic # cAc1816020 • PLbg cFc1428223 • ELEc Ec13009313

348415-1

New AC System

SEE HOW MUCH MORE YOU CAN SAVE!!

Air Conditioning

Plumbing

Electrical

Water Treatment

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

HotWorks.org

Sarasota Open Air Fine Art Show

™

February 13 & 14, 2021

Outdoors at Phillippi Estate Park, Sarasota

‘Small things’ change lives East County’s Debi Frock works to improve the quality of life for children in Ghana.

JAY HEATER MANAGING EDITOR

A

www.hotworks.org Facebook.com/HotWorksArtShows Instagram @HotWorksArtShows

Kwang Cha Brown, Painting

COVID safety guidelines in place: Social distancing, all booths spread apart, face coverings recommended and more.

Professionally Juried Fine Art & Fine Craft Show At Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota All Art is Original, Personally Handmade & for Sale by the Artist Present at the Show Sat, Feb 13 & Sun, Feb 14 ~ 10am-5pm Daily Free Parking $5 Admission (15 and under free) supports Plus Youth Art Competition for Grades K-8 or Ages 5-13. More info www.hotworks.org

351712-1

See Art, Love Art, Buy Art!™

s a child, Debi Frock must have envisioned the life of a queen as being quite different than her current experience.

In those early days, Frock had no such aspirations as to ascend to royalty. Instead, she wanted to work with children in Africa.

Little did she know one would lead to the other.

After a trip to Ghana in 2004 touched her heart, Frock started the Ghanaian Mothers’ Hope nonprofit in 2005. The nonprofit since has built schools, health clinics and playgrounds in Ghana.

The appreciative people of the region crowned her as “queen mother,” a distinction she wears with pride as she continues her quest to make life easier for Ghanaians.

Frock, an East County resident who is a member of the Palm Aire Women’s Club, had scheduled an informative event with her fellow club members this spring, but COVID-19 has wiped out many of the events. Frock, however, continues to educate her community about strife in that region of Africa along with ways to help.

“I fell in love with the kids there,” said Frock, who is the ways and means chair for the Palm Aire

Women’s Club. “I knew small things could be done to change their lives.”

It took a year to build the first preschool in Akramaman, Ghana, back in 2005, and four more schools have been built since.

A high school currently is being built.

That school system serves more than 500 children in an area Frock said people call “bush country.”

A health clinic built by Ghanaian Mothers’ Hope serves more than 15,000 villagers.

“They weren’t getting education unless somebody was sitting there teaching them under a tree,” Frock said of the time before the schools were built. “Girls were not going to school because they had to watch [younger siblings].”

The schools built tended to be three classrooms and another room for storage or office space.

Cost of the construction would be $25,000 to $40,000, depending on how difficult it would be to get materials to the area. Most roads in the area accessing the villages are dirt.

Frock raised the money with help from the Patterson Foundation and the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. Churches including the Church of the Redeemer Episcopal in Sarasota have been helpful and individuals have been generous.

Over the past three years, Ghanaian students have built a relationship with second graders at Sarasota’s Alta Vista Elementary School. Through social media platforms, students from the two

NEW HOMES ON THE NATURAL SIDE S A R A S O TA E A S T

Finding a new home with the space you need – inside and out – shouldn’t be complicated.

At Artistry Sarasota it’s natural, with fresh new home designs, spacious waterfront & preserve homesites, and a lakeside amenity center open for recreation and fun.

DESIGNER-DECORATED MODELS OPEN DAILY | NEW HOMES FROM THE $400s MOVE-IN READY HOMES | ARTISTRYSARASOTA.COM 888-393-7994 | 8900 BERNINI PLACE, SARASOTA Ask a new home specialist for details. Pricing, availability, specifications and amenities are subject to change without notice. CGC1509406

349271-1

8B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

Courtesy photo

Debi Frock of Ghanaian Mothers’ Hope sits among the children who attend one of the schools the nonprofit built in Ghana.

countries visit and share information about their cultures.

For example, all the students read “The Ghanaian Goldilocks,” which was the classic “Goldilocks and the Three Bears” fairy tale with changes made to reflect

Ghanaian culture.

Last March the schools shared a special day of entertainment as the Sarasota Circus Arts Conservatory did a clown skit at Alta Vista Elementary.

“Circus is not in their vocabulary,” Frock said of the Ghanaian children. “They don’t know what a circus is.”

Frock sent the Ghanaian children a book about a pet dog going to the circus. Those students then send a letter back to the Alta Vista students telling them what they thought of the book. A video chat is held to discus everything.

All the children were given red clown noses.

“It makes them all even,” Frock said with a laugh.

Ghanaian Mothers’ Hope ran reading camps in Ghana until the pandemic hit. Volunteers from the U.S. would help with those camps.

“We’re trying to get the literacy level up,” Frock said. “They don’t have the materials.”

For more information about Ghanaian Mothers’ Hope, go to GMHopes.org. To contact Frock, send an email to debi.gmhope@ gmail.com.

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

9B

Love is in the Air… and in the Trees!

PINO’S IS BACK!

PRIVATE DINING ONLY, RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

We’ve Moved, Visit Our NEW Location

AT HOME CATERING AVAILABLE

Pino’s

Enjoy all your favorite chef specialties:

Grilled Octopus • Ossobuco • Homemade Pasta • 16 oz. Veal Chops • Fresh Seafood

6392 North Lockwood Ridge Road | Located within Appizza A Pizza Near Detwilers at the Intersection of Lockwood & University

(941) 306-1202 ArtistSeriesConcerts.org

2020-2021

Zip•Climb Swing•Soar The Ground Is Overrated

25th Anniversary Season

BRADENTON

941-219-4457

www.TreeUmph.com

WOMEN OF NOTE

10% OFF

February 18 • 5:30 pm

*

Outdoors at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

FOR YOU AND YOUR VALENTINE Swing with Your Sweetie and Save!

Use promo code: LOVE2021

*Valid on adventures booked between February 11 – 15, 2021 only. Cannot be combined with any other offer.

344884-1

A celebration of female voices and female composers featuring Jenny Kim-Godfrey, soprano Robyn Rocklein, mezzo soprano Joseph Holt, piano Marcy Miller, narrator

349630-1

350344-1

941-203- 8467 - www.appizzaapizza.com to view Menu

10B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

BEST BET SATURDAY, FEB. 13

Digital Program 5

BALANCHINE & GRAZIANO 26 Feb - 2 Mar 2021

BEARADISE FUNDRAISER Runs from 3:30-7 p.m. at Bearadise Ranch Bear Preserve, 6908 245th St. E., Myakka City. The Bear Hugs and Kisses fundraiser will include educational bear presentations, music provided by a DJ, dinner, dancing and an auction. Tickets are $50. For information and tickets, call 3222462, or email BigBearPines10@aol.com.

File photo

Monica Welde with Carol

THURSDAY, FEB. 11

349350-1

CASUAL CORNHOLE Begins at 9 a.m. at Bob Gardner Park, 2710 White Eagle Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. Lakewood Ranch Community Activities is hosting an eight-session casual cornhole league through March 11 for those 18 and up. The fee of $25 covers all eight sessions. For more information or to register, go to MyLWR.com or call 7271505.

FRIDAY, FEB. 12

TICKETS $35 941.359.0099 | WWW.SARASOTABALLET.ORG

FIELD BOCCE Begins at 10 a.m. at the Greenbrook Adventure Park, 13010 Adventure Place, Lakewood Ranch. Lakewood Ranch Community Activities offers this form of bocce every Friday through Feb.

26. The cost is $45 for Lakewood Ranch residents and $55 for nonresidents. The league is for those 18 and up. Go to MyLWR.com for more information or to sign up.

FRIDAY, FEB. 12 TO SUNDAY, FEB. 14

VALENTINE’S MOVIES AT UTC Starts at 7 p.m. each night at The Mall of UTC, 140 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota, The Mall at UTC is hosting Romantic Movies Under the Stars. The movies will be drive-in style with socially distanced seating available on first-come, first-served basis.

Movies will be shown on the big screen located in the east lot near Kona Grill. On Feb. 12, “La La Land” shows first followed by “Dirty Dancing”; on Feb. 13, “50 First Dates” is followed by “The Notebook”; and on Feb. 14,

351306-1

COMMUNITY

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

kids, free for Lakewood Ranch residents ages 5-11 and $10 for nonresidents. For information, call 727-1505, or go to MyLWR. com.

“Valentine’s Day” will be shown.

Besides the movies, horse-drawn carriage rides will be available all three days from 6-10 p.m. The rides cost $40 for two to four people and $60 for a carriage that seats up to six. The rides leave from the West District at UTC, near the center roundabout on Cattlemen Drive. Benderson Park also will be hosting fireworks at 9 p.m. Feb. 12 and 13 and at 8 p.m. Feb. 14.

SATURDAY, FEB. 13

REC DAY AT THE PARK Runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota. Families are invited to experience Nathan Benderson Park during Rec Day. Participants will have the opportunity to try stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, canoes, fishing and more. Fees are $10 per person for ages 7-18 and free for their parents and siblings ages 1-6. The fee is $10 for adults without children. Freshwater fishing licenses are required for any participants age 16 and older. Meet at the base of the finish tower.

For more information, go to NathanBendersonPark.org.

KIDS YOGA Begins at 10 a.m. at Bob Gardner Community Park, 2710 White Eagle Blvd., Lakewood Ranch.

Lakewood Ranch Community Activities hosts yoga for

TEEN YOGA Begins at 11 a.m. at Bob Gardner Community Park, 2710 White Eagle Blvd., Lakewood Ranch.

Lakewood Ranch Community Activities hosts yoga for teens, free for Lakewood Ranch residents ages 13-18 and $10 for nonresidents. For information, call 7271505, or go to MyLWR.com.

SUNDAY, FEB. 14

MARKET AT LAKEWOOD RANCH Runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the parking lot at Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, 8330 Lakewood Ranch Blvd.

The Market at Lakewood Ranch runs every Sunday through April 25. Vendors will be offering seafood, eggs, meats, diary products, pastas, bakery goods, jams and pickles among other items.

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 30th season at the Sarasota Polo Club runs

every Sunday through April 25.

Besides world class polo, the event includes food and beverages, tailgating and divot stomping. General admission is $15 per adult with children 12 and under free. Advance tickets are strongly encouraged. For ticket packages and information, go to SarasotaPolo.com. Gates open at 10 a.m.

BARRE IN THE PARK Begins at 9 a.m. at Bob Gardner Park, 2710 White Eagle Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. The public is invited to participate in a free barre workout at Bob Gardner Park, hosted by Barre3. Bring your own mat and water bottle.

Mats must be placed 6 feet apart.

All participants are asked to follow social distancing guidelines.

For information or to register, go to LakewoodRanch.com.

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

mation, call 727-1505, or go to MyLWR.com.

THURSDAY, FEB. 18 TO SUNDAY, FEB. 21

LECOM SUNCOAST CLASSIC Begins at 8 a.m. each day at Lakewood National Golf Club, 17605 Lakewood National Parkway, Lakewood Ranch. The Korn Ferry Tour brings professional golf to Lakewood Ranch for the third consecutive year. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at LECOMSuncoastClassic.com or at the gate. Spectators are encouraged to bring their own chairs because there will be no bleacher seating.

SATURDAY, FEB. 20 AND SUNDAY, FEB. 21

VALENTINE’S DAY RIDE Runs from 5-7 p.m. at Main Street at Lakewood Ranch. Main Street is hosting free horsedrawn carriage rides for Valentine’s Day. The rides are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Rides are limited to two adults or one family at a time.

Pick-up for the rides will be at the fountain. For more information, go to MyLWR.com.

COMMUNITY CAMPOUT Runs from 3 p.m. Feb. 20 to 10 a.m. Feb. 21 at Greenbrook Adventure Park, 13010 Adventure Place, Lakewood Ranch. Lakewood Ranch Community Activities is hosting its third annual family-friendly campout. Bring your tent and supplies. The fee is $40 per family or space. Activities include a movie, a campfire, tent pitching demos, live music, a nature hike and food for purchase. For more information, go to MyLWR.com.

TUESDAY, FEB. 16

SUNDAY, FEB. 21

WALKING GROUP Begins at 9 a.m. at Bob Gardner Community Park, 2710 White Eagle Blvd., Lakewood Ranch.

Take a casual walk around Bob Gardner Park with the Lakewood Ranch Community Activities parks team. The group is for those 18 and up and is free for Lakewood Ranch residents and $10 for nonresidents. For infor-

YOGA IN THE PARK Begins at 9 a.m. at Bob Gardner Park, 2710 White Eagle Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. The public is invited to participate in a free yoga workout at Bob Gardner Park. Bring your own mat and water bottle. For more information or to register for the event, go to LakewoodRanch.com.

SPONSORED BY THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF SARASOTA-MANATEE

March 1 – 25, 2021 jewish film festiv al for tickets, please visit OF SARASOTA-MANATEE m o rt s k i r bo l l

jfedsrq.org/JFF

12 TH ANNUAL

CHAIRS Cheryl Shapiro and Bunny Skirboll

FOR OUR 12TH ANNIVERSARY, WE ARE PROUD TO PRESENT A PREMIER LINE-UP OF 21 OUTSTANDING AND DIVERSE FILMS! FEDERATION TORCH SPONSORS

BRONZE SPONSORS

Edie and David Chaifetz Leon R. and Margaret M. Ellin Debbie and Larry Haspel Rosenthal Roots Family Foundation Sylvia and Norman Samet Bunny Skirboll Hadassah and Martin Strobel Lois Stulberg

Anonymous Ann and Robert Jackson

OPENING NIGHT SPONSORS Shelly and Sy Goldblatt

CENTERPIECE SPONSOR Marsha Eisenberg

CLOSING EVENT SPONSORS

Lori and David Liner

BRONZE CORPORATE SPONSOR

Visit JFFSRQ.org/JFF for drive-in events,* all 21 virtual films, film descriptions and sponsor benefits! * Sponsor benefit only, Pewter and above.

Cheryl and Steve Shapiro

341727-1

MEDIA SPONSORS

To become a sponsor, contact Jeremy Lisitza at 941.343.2113 or jlisitza@jfedsrq.org

11B

12B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

LOCALLY KNOWN. GLOBALLY CONNECTED. SINCE 1976.

BRADENTON 8499 Lindrick Lane Stacy Haas 941-587-4359 A4475594 $10,850,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 16318 Foremast Place Ian Addy, PA & Barbara A Milian, P.A. 941-961-8850 A4488248 $2,140,000

BRADENTON 117 N 18th Street W Lynne Callahan 941-720-3278 A4461744 $2,100,000

BRADENTON 616 Regatta Way Sandi Dietrich 941-704-0697 A4489513 $2,100,000

BRADENTON 6510 200th Street E Leslie Emery & Aaron Corr 941-400-9710 A4489175 $1,875,000

UNIVERSITY PARK 7047 Stanhope Place Daniela Soiman 941-779-4797 A4483380 $999,000

SARASOTA 6613 Taeda Drive Monica Verinder 941-704-4040 A4482270 $815,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 17556 Colebrook Circle Jonnie Dwyer 941-812-6283 A4488420 $800,000

SARASOTA 8985 Rocky Lake Court Jackie Griese 941-718-0045 N6112451 $798,000

BRADENTON 5404 Tidewater Preserve Boulevard Mark Boehmig & Noel Morton 941-807-6936 A4485714 $795,000

SARASOTA 1253 Quail Run Trail Richard Hearn 941-313-1591 A4487476 $695,000

BRADENTON 5129 88th Street E Chris Baylis & Sue Cosgrove-Lee 941-735-4713 A4481186 $645,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 4653 Royal Dornoch Cir Sue Cosgrove-Lee & Chris Baylis 941-400-9068 A4468380 $500,000

UNIVERSITY PARK 6668 Saint James Crossing Beth Ann Boyer 941-780-6606 A4481768 $500,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 11006 Bullrush Terrace Toma Milbank & Rebecca Milbank PLLC 941-720-5174 A4489931 $499,900

BRADENTON 221 21st Street W Lynne Callahan 941-720-3278 A4474894 $469,000

UNIVERSITY PARK 7936 Hampton Court Lori Bollinger & Beth Ann Boyer 941-524-7034 A4476286 $468,500

BRADENTON 7730 34th Avenue W 102 Cheryl Roberts 941-266-1450 A4486333 $435,000

SARASOTA 862 Molly Circle Tina Ciaccio 941-685-8420 A4489836 $434,500

BRADENTON 3440 77th Street W 203 Paul Oakes 941-312-1455 A4489733 $430,000

BRADENTON 8623 Stone Harbour Loop Diane Fogo Harter 941-445-2431 A4488826 $429,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 7827 Heritage Classic Court Heidi Cox 941-685-1529 A4489221 $415,000

BRADENTON 132 River Enclave Court Deborah Capobianco & Kristi Berger 941-704-2394 A4483593 $389,999

LAKEWOOD RANCH 7065 Woodmore Terrace Heather Sniffen 941-720-1526 A4486776 $317,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 10163 Glenmore Avenue Nicole Ryskamp 941-807-1766 A4484174 $310,000

BRADENTON 13711 Messina Loop 204 Erica Thomas 941-799-9365 A4479434 $265,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 7710 Lake Vista Court 403 Stephen Strong 941-201-9662 A4482189 $259,900

BRADENTON 814 Audubon Drive Laura Rulon & Betsy Hagen 941-896-2757 A4489466 $259,000

BRADENTON 204 3rd Street W 204 Patty Brooks 941-545-1194 A4462765 $227,500

LAKEWOOD RANCH 16006 Foremast Place Barbara Najmy 941-705-1158 A4488300 $3,875,000

MSC MORTGAGE | MSC TITLE | MS&C COMMERCIAL NEW HOMES & CONDOMINIUMS

SARASOTA 10862 Leafwing Drive Brian Wood 941-928-8408 A4471346 $3,250,000

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM

348839-1

SARASOTA 8263 Archers Court Kathy Callahan 941-900-8088 A4483993 $3,999,999

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

RESEARCH EDITOR

A

home in The Lake Club topped all transactions in this week’s real estate. Charles and Sheryl Seitz, trustees, of Okemos, Mich., sold the home at 16025 Daysailor Trail to Richard and Melissa Hall, of Bradenton, for $1.13 million. Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,024 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.05 million in 2015.

COUNTRY CLUB

Joseph Derosa, trustee, sold the home at 7319 Greystone St. to Lewis Collins Jr. and Mary Alice Collins, of Lakewood Ranch, for $930,000. Built in 2013, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,263 square feet of living area.

LAKE CLUB

SD TLC Holdings LLC sold the home at 16708 Verona Place to Yamil Santiago and Amaris Pizarro, of Lakewood Ranch, for $905,300. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three-anda-half baths, a pool and 3,004 square feet of living area.

ESPLANADE

Steven and Norma Ware, of Bradenton, sold their home at 4719 Cabreo Court to David Griffin and Karen Gerken, of Lewis, Del., for $868,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, threeand-a-half baths, a pool and 2,875 square feet of living area. It sold for $741,700 in 2018.

MOORINGS AT HERITAGE HARBOUR

Moorings Properties LLC sold the home at 8805 Rum Runner Place to Jeffery and Mary Jo Suhr, of Bradenton, for $805,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,359 square feet of living area. It sold for $719,400 in 2017.

RIVERDALE

John Robert DePond and Katherine Anne Theresa Gilroy, of Bradenton, sold their home at 4403 Fifth Ave. NE to Brent Giles, trustee, of Kansas City, for $769,900. Built in 2017, it has two bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,345 square feet of living area. It sold for $630,000 in 2018.

HENLEY

Jeffrey and Candice Caufield sold their home at 6947 Cumberland Terrace to Kathryn Ann Dreusicke, of Bradenton, for $749,900. Built in 1999, it has three bedrooms, three-anda-half baths, a pool and 3,642 square feet of living area. It sold for $602,000 in 2009.

LANGLEY PARK

Alfred and Sylvia Eckes, of Wichita, Kan., sold their home at 7026 Langley Place to John and Maureen Gibson, of Uni-

13B

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

JAN. 25-29

versity Park, for $735,000. Built in 2000, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,982 square feet of living area. It sold for $649,000 in 2010.

PRESERVE AT PANTHER RIDGE

George and Kristan Schwab, of Bradenton, sold their home at 8302 Curlew Court to Joshua Ryan Inboden and Melissa Delynn Inboden, of Parrish, for $735,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,877 square feet of living area. It sold for $646,800 in 2004.

GREYHAWK LANDING

Alfred and Sue Cianfarani, of Highland Village, Texas, sold their home at 336 Blackbird Court to Pasqual and Jon Astore, trustees, of Bradenton, for $683,000. Built in 2005, it has five bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,972 square feet of living area. It sold for $515,000 in 2010.

Deborah Bender, trustee, sold the home at 13014 Peregrin Circle to Stephen and Jennifer Swirczynski, of Bradenton, for $540,000.

Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,977 square feet of living area. It sold for $355,000 in 2013.

David and Martina Culver, of Bradenton, sold their home at 227 Petrel Trail to Boyd Goodell II and Karen Tredinnick, of Bradenton, for $537,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,887 square feet of living area. It sold for $399,000 in 2015.

Liz Ramos

This Country Club home at 7319 Greystone St. sold for $930,000. It has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,263 square feet of living area.

Neuwirth, of Bradenton, for $542,000. Built in 1998, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,986 square feet of living area. It sold for $400,000 in 2007.

Ian and Jodi McCoy, of Bradenton, sold their home at 906 Mill Creek Road to Craig and Angela Camfield, of Madeira Beach, for $415,000. Built in 1985, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,911 square feet of living area. It sold for $279,000 in 2016.

POMELLO CITY

Steven and Kelly Boone, of Los Alamos, N.M., sold their home

at 7517 226th St. E. to Jose and Noemi Fernandez, of Bradenton, for $530,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,323 square feet of living area. It sold for $264,100 in 2004.

GREENBROOK

Roland and Ingrid Seidel, trustees, of Sarasota, sold the home at 13462 Purple Finch Circle to Thomas and Melinda Tatham, trustees, and Teresa Bazaral, of Oakwood, Ohio, for $515,000.

SEE REAL ESTATE, PAGE 14B

In with the new

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

SERENITY CREEK

Emilio and Danielle Torres, of Bradenton, sold their home at 12924 Bliss Loop to Bryan Hannan, of Bradenton, for $630,000.

Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and 4,263 square feet of living area. It sold for $435,000 in 2015.

COUNTRY CLUB EAST

Terry Osborn and Dina Giovanna Ciotola sold their home at 15407 Leven Links Place to Gene Storm, trustee, of La Grange, Ill., for $629,500. Built in 2011, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,889 square feet of living area.

MOVE-IN READY

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota | 941.702.2300 From the $3,700,000s TheResidencesSarasota.com

NEW MODEL OPEN

ARBOR GRANDE

Brent and Heidi Schubring, of Huntersville, N.C., sold their home at 11930 Perennial Place to Salvatore and Jennifer Zatkowski, of North Bellmore, N.Y., for $614,900. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, three-anda-half baths, a pool and 2,826 square feet of living area. It sold for $570,100 in 2018.

Standard Pacific of Florida sold the home at 2528 Starwood Court to Cathy Arlene DelGuidice and George DeGuidice Jr., of Lakewood Ranch, for $340,600. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two-and-ahalf baths and 1,926 square feet of living area.

Bayfront Sarasota

South Sarasota

Sandhill Lake | 941.234.0432 From the high $500,000s SandhillLakeSarasota.com

WATERFRONT HOMES & HOMESITES

SALES GALLERY OPEN

Longboat Key

The Residences at the St. Regis | 941.213.3300 From the $2,000,000’s Call for appointment. SRResidencesLongboatKey.com

MOVE-IN READY

Downtown Sarasota

Risdon on 5th | 941.365.1414 From the high $300,000s RisdonOn5th.com

Bradenton Riverfront

Riverside Point | 941.201.8505 Home sites from $229,900 | Homes from the low $600,000s RiversidePointFlorida.com

NOW SELLING NEW PHASE

Northwest Bradenton

Palma Sola Bay Club | 941.216.7436 From the high $300,000s PalmaSolaBayClub.com

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

MILL CREEK

Marcia Frost, of Lakewood Ranch, sold her home at 1052 Mill Creek Road to Brian

348875-1

ADAM HUGHES

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

REAL ESTATE

Lake Club home tops sales at $1.13 million

|

WWW.MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM/NEW-HOMES | 844.591.4333 | SARASOTA, FLORIDA Prices as of February 2021.

Licensed Real Estate Broker

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

H e y a a r d tach i ol e H advertisement

Real estate FROM PAGE 13B

Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,578 square feet of living area. It sold for $569,900 in 2006.

s

Stephen and Kelsie Carter, of Fleming Island, sold their home at 13501 Brown Thrasher Pike to Lauren Tretolo and Alexander Mcculla, of Lakewood Ranch, for $470,000. Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, three-andtwo-half baths, a pool and 3,040 square feet of living area. It sold for $417,000 in 2016.

Lauren Tretolo and Alexander McCulla, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their home at 15217 Blue Fish Circle to Philip Westerman and Paulette Kessler-Westerman, of Lakewood Ranch, for $349,300. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,073 square feet of living area. It sold for $300,000 in 2016.

By Freya Robbins, CDFA™ If Valentine’s Day is the season of love, why do so many couples break up around the Holidays?

It is only from my own perspective of working with couples the past 16 years who seek a divorce that is fair and equal but not hurtful to each other that I have collected this information. In looking back over the years, patterns of interest in a dissolution show up frequently after Christmas, Valentine’s Day and often in September. I attribute this time as significant family and romantic holidays and after family summer vacations which is also when children go back to school.

I am worn out just writing this. Please do not despair if you are happily in love – you should only be reading this for your friends who might need my help.

During the ups and downs of our relationships I believe we subconsciously or perhaps even consciously assess our love relationship.

If it has been a particularly stressful Christmas, one might say “I am never going through another Christmas with her!” Aren’t we acutely aware of our feelings for another especially at Valentine’s Day, if no other day? It is after all, the universal day to show your love and affection for your Let us say this is sweetheart. If you IF VALENTINE’S DAY IS true.

So what? find a card What does it THE SEASON OF LOVE, cannot that says what you mean?

When want because it is WHY DO SO MANY one thinks about too sappy, maybe COUPLES BREAK UP the complexity you are someone of relationships, AROUND THE who is in the “I from your own am not sure about HOLIDAYS? biological family, this relationship how you were raised, zone” and you need interactions and feelings help working on this you have about your family relationship or ending it in a that alone can be complicated. respectful way.

Add to that, a new person to the mix that has their own biological family, If you want to work on your culture, and their different feelings relationship you might consider and connections. Work into the learning your partner’s love mixture your idiosyncrasies and your languages. If you have never read mate’s idiosyncrasies and you could the book, The Five Love Languages by have an artful collection of joyous Gary Chapman, I highly recommend memories or you could start to have it. You will learn a lot about yourself challenges. as well as your partner. If you have already been in counseling and want This might sound complicated and yet to part the kinder gentler way, which we have not added children, religion, means doing the right thing by each work stress, illness, in-law issues, other but not being taken advantage finances, blended families, politics, or of, give me a call. other life occurrences that can throw any normal person off track. Whew!

HIDDEN OAKS

Colleen Wright, trustee, and Norman Wright, of Sarasota,

sold the home at 514 129th St. NE to Laurence and Tanya Reinert, of Bradenton, for $515,000. Built in 1996, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,899 square feet of living area. It sold for $320,000 in 2014.

LAKEWOOD NATIONAL

Lennar Homes LLC sold the home at 17707 Hickok Belt Loop to Thiru and Bharathi Thathappa, of Champions Gate, for $486,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,248 square feet of living area.

Lennar Homes LLC sold the home at 17715 Hickok Belt Loop to Scott Holton and Carolyn Summerfield, of Lakewood Ranch, for $440,700. Built in 2020, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,900 square feet of living area.

POMELLO PARK

Charles Reynolds and Marla Ann Lawless, of Palmetto, sold their home at 22121 64th Ave. E. to Ryan Wensel and Melissa Masiello, of Bradenton, for $483,000.

Built in 2003, it has one bedroom, two baths, a pool and 1,456 square feet of living area.

350385-1

14B

CALL TO SCHEDULE A FREE PHONE CONSULTATION

941.366.0202

www.ZollingerMediation.com 347137-1

Freya Robbins, FLORIDA SUPREME

COURT CERTIFIED MEDIATOR, CDFA™

350792-1

Family & Divorce Mediation | Elder Care Mediation Marriage Mediation | Pre & Post Nuptial Agreements

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

ROSEDALE ADDITION

Jose Pujol, of San Antonio, sold his home at 10516 Eastwood Drive to Ernest Soller, trustee, of Bradenton, for $430,000. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths and 2,502 square feet of living area. It sold for $430,000 in 2020.

SAVANNA

Meritage Homes of Florida Inc. sold the home at 13754 American Prairie Place to Kevin Michael O’Brien and Judith Anne Fortaleza O’Brien, of Bradenton, for $430,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,667 square feet of living area.

Michael and Petal Bradley, of Bradenton, sold their home at 13612 American Prairie Place to Sandra Johnson and Robert Carl Johnson Jr., of Bradenton, for $425,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,230 square feet of living area. It sold for $371,000 in 2017.

RIVERWALK

Anthony and Marguerite DiBello sold their home at 11101 Water Lily Way to Cassidy Garbutt, of Lakewood Ranch, for $424,900. Built in 1999, it

15B

has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,004 square feet of living area. It sold for $248,000 in 2000.

TIDEWATER PRESERVE

Ernest and Therese Soller sold their home at 5103 Lake Overlook Ave. to Steven and Christine Sobel, of O’Fallon, Mo., for $404,500. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,426 square feet of living area. It sold for $310,100 in 2012.

HERITAGE HARBOUR

Barry Rice, trustee, sold the home at 6466 Willowshire Way to John and Lori Shaffer, of Latrobe, Pa., for $395,000. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,829 square feet of living area. It sold for $317,000 in 2018.

EDGEWATER

Gunvantbhai and Minaxiben Patel and Nirav Patel, of Newberry, sold their home at 8432 Misty Morning Court to Joseph Kraus and Magdeleine Vasso, of Bradenton, for $388,000. Built in 2002, it has three bedrooms, two baths and has 2,204 square feet of living area. It sold for $325,000 in 2007.

ONLINE See more transactions at YourObserver.com

350809-1

James Mclusky and Kristine Irene Mclusky, of Mercer, Pa., sold their home at 7829 Drayton Circle to Christopher and Jennifer Bigelow, of Sarasota, for $468,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,431 square feet of living area. It sold for $288,300 in 2018.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

351458-1

HAMPTON TERRACE AT UNIVERSITY PLACE

|

16B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

FORECAST

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

SUNRISE / SUNSET

THURSDAY, FEB. 11

Submit your photos at YourObserver. com/ Weather. All submissions will be entered for the 202021 Weather and Nature photo contest.

In February 2021, you will vote for your favorite photo, and the submission with the most votes will win a $500 gift card.

Allison Rhodes captured a photo of this baby alligator in Riverwalk Ridge in Lakewood Ranch.

High: 80 Low: 65 Chance of rain: 19%

FRIDAY, FEB. 12 High: 79 Low: 66 Chance of rain: 24%

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, Feb. 11

7:09a 6:19p

Friday, Feb. 12

7:09a

6:20p

Saturday, Feb. 13

7:08a

6:20p

Sunday, Feb. 14

7:07a

6:21p

Monday, Feb. 15

7:06a

6:22p

Tuesday, Feb. 16

7:05a

6:23p

Wednesday, Feb. 17

7:04a

6:24p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, FEB. 13

Feb. 27 Full

High: 76 Low: 66 Chance of rain: 56%

March 5 Last

March 13 New

March 21 First

RAINFALL Monday, Feb. 1

0.49

Tuesday, Feb. 2

0

SUNDAY, FEB. 14

Wednesday, Feb. 3

0

Thursday, Feb. 4

0

High: 73 Low: 62 Chance of rain: 58%

Friday, Feb. 5

0

Saturday, Feb. 6

0

Sunday, Feb. 7

0.09

*Rainfall totals from Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport

YEAR TO DATE:

MONTH TO DATE:

2021

1.57 in.

2021 0.87 in.

2020 2.18 in.

2020 1.21 in.

A REFLECTION OF NATURE’S BEAUTY 349205-1

941.355.8437 | Bradenton

CROSSWORD

941.748.4679 | Venice

ACROSS 1 Word before “tie” or “line” 4 Softball glove 8 Agent Gibbs’ TV show 12 Wares, briefly 17 2-D measurement 19 Where Honolulu is 20 Valued at 21 Conscious 22 *Australian government building 25 Happen again 26 Hit with a water gun 27 In back of 28 Long-billed birds 30 Sweetie

31 Transit map line 32 Hack (off) 33 That doe 35 *Type of game that involves toying with something 39 *Spar with no opponent 42 Part of UAE 43 Neighbor of Minn. and N.Y. 44 Noted Roman censor 46 Negative answer to your own question 47 *”Transformers” actress 50 *Vehicle with a star 52 Spiritual leader?

53 ___ Lingus 54 Monarch wrapped in silk?

55 Pool temperature tester 56 Hoppy beer, for short 59 Ethiopian Verdi princess 61 Drops the ball 62 Disorderly crowd 63 Wait to publicize 65 *Discount store chain 68 *It includes an automobile’s engine 70 Surname hidden in “farewells” 71 With it 72 Minnesota has one with over 520 stores 73 Shrunken Asian sea 74 Director Anderson

98 Olympic code for Quito’s country 99 According to 100 Live TV option 101 “... blessing ___ curse?”

102 2020 Morgan Stanley acquisition 104 Absorbed 105 Coin’s shape, often 109 Enjoyed thoroughly 110 Sam’s book, and a hint to the starred answers’ ends 113 Girder lifter 114 Deposes 115 Clue room 116 18-wheeler 117 Tenth president 118 Tennis barriers 119 General ___ chicken 120 What whole milk has

KITCHEN | CABINETRY OUTDOOR PAVERS

40 Largely nocturnal bird 41 A treaty might end one 45 “One ___ time” 48 Tennis star Rafael 49 Phobia 50 Undiluted 51 Brain portion 54 ___ book (ACT study aid) 56 Lingua di Roma 57 Taro paste 58 “Bel Canto” author Patchett 60 Under the weather 61 Country north of Ethiopia 62 Digging garden pest 63 Fancy violin, briefly 64 Plan with a SEP variety 65 Morning drops 66 Are in debt 67 You, years ago 68 Playground’s place 69 Shankar who is Norah DOWN Jones’ father 1 Hits with a ray gun 2 Middle Eastern country next 72 Long running events?

75 Produced, like a show to 23-Down 76 Forbid 3 Lima’s country 4 Surrounded by water, as a 77 Latin number after septem 79 Wilson or Moreno castle 5 “Therefore ___” (Billie Eilish 80 Massage target 81 Classic ISP hit) 82 Sticky sheet 6 Yankees’ borough 83 Once-popular pesticide 7 Avoid being distracted by 84 Provided that 8 “... said ___ ever” 85 Jason of “All the Presi9 Gross stuff dent’s Men” 10 “___ anyone’s guess” 86 Lincoln’s nickname 11 Young woman, in Aussie 87 “Good effort!” slang 88 Like some muscles that 12 Butterfly, in Spanish squats work 13 Lamb raisers 75 All ready 90 Take great pleasure (in) 14 Elapses quickly 76 Uncovered 93 Willamette River’s state 15 Have a thing for 77 Fallopian tube travelers 95 Increase in fares 16 That doe 78 Get under the skin of 18 Chinese e-commerce giant 96 Song parts for singers 81 *When vampires come 97 “___ Brockovich” 20 Foamy wave crests out 100 Donne and Bradstreet 84 Precipitation that dam- 23 See 2-Down 103 Character in old Norse 24 Consequently ages statues mythology?

29 Upper part of a dress 86 Luanda’s nation 104 Assessment 34 Prefix with “skeleton” 89 Ferber who wrote “So 106 Cook-off competitor 35 Showed up Big” and “Giant” 107 Tibetan teacher 36 Greek god in a helmet 90 Summer hrs.

108 Send out 37 Events held after declut91 Not fooled by 109 Perform in a play tering 92 *Kid’s father 111 Feel remorse for 94 *Longtime sitcom set on 38 Tie to a pier, say 112 Cal Poly campus, briefly 39 Cellos’ section (Abbr.) a cruise ship

I WOULD NOT EAT THEM ... by Victor Barocas; Edited by David Steinberg

©2021 Universal Uclick

941.493.7441 | manasotaonline.com

CELEBRITY CIPHER

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

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“ZC ITOHZO ECROZAKJV OGIODZKCJHY, LCFT RKJXEOZ RFEZ PO TOYOJZYOEEYL UCIFEOX CJ ZAO ERHYYOEZ XOZHKY.” – VKCTVKC HTRHJK

“YX BJELAYHZ TGE THZ AOW EHWEH AV ELXMH ... YX PAGM UE LA THMD OAYHW CHBAYH LTH CHEL SHZEUAW AV LTHYEHMSHE.”

– LAY VAZK

Puzzle Two Clue: P equals G

Sarasota

HUNDREDS OF COLORS AND STYLES ON SALE NOW!

Puzzle One Clue G equals X

CARPET

© 2021 NEA, Inc.

SUDOKU

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

©2021 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

02-11-21

Made for where you live. Here!

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888

Homes for Sale

DEADLINES: Classifieds - Monday at Noon

Beach Front Home: 4BED5BATH, 2CARGAR $3,999,000

redpages@yourobserver.com • yourobserver.com/redpages Service Directory - Friday at 3PM • PAYMENT: Cash, Check or Credit Card

Items Under $200 SECTIONAL WALL Unit Top 79"W x 15"D Each Side 20"W x 16"D x 72"H Center 38"W x 21"D x 30"H $40 - OBO 941-417-2722.

Garage/ Moving/ Estate Sales FANTASTIC ARTIST GARAGE SALE Feb 12th and 13th, 9am to 2pm.

4919 Commonwealth Dr, Siesta Key

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

3-WHEEL BIKE Exc. cond., new seat, royal blue, front/rear brakes, basket. $175.

(941) 254-7256.

GUITAR AMP. Custom Tube with preamp Many other features.

Great Sound, Asking $69.

Please call: 941-323-2400.

941-955-4888 YourObserver.com/RedPages

Sporting Goods

Sarasota: Built in 2010 4BED2.5BATH Lakeview Lanai $335,000 Phillipi Gardens: INVESTORS 3BED-2BATH $209,000 Buy or Sell with Brooke O’Malley as your Realtor, and CLUB REALTY will Pay your title insurance.

Call 941-726-2677

Advertise your business or service in the Observer

RED PAGES

BUY & SELL HERE!

CALL TODAY 941-955-4888

YourObserver.com/RedPages

This week’s Crossword answers

15% DISCOUNT FOR 4-WEEK RUN PLACE YOUR AD: Call: 941-955-4888 Fax: 941-362-4808 Email: redpages@ yourobserver.com Online: yourobserver.com FAMILY SECURITY DRIVER 941-735-4732.

Ask for Eddie.

Many years experience with rock stars, wild teens, children, elderly, and foreign families.

Feel safe, Be safe 24/7 Licensed and Legal.

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

Autos Wanted

LAMPS– come with shades, 3 way switch, 1 floor lamp with 1 matching table lamp. $25 each or 2 for $45.

516-528-5876.

CASH FOR YOUR CAR We come to you!

Ho Ho Buys cars.

941-270-4400.

LIKE NEW GE stainless steel wall oven. $100. 2 barstools $80. 941-536-5739.

SOFA- RATTAN frame, 6 cushions pastel colors: $85.

941-351-3166.

Private Boat Lift: beach access villa/condo $399,000

LAUREL OAK C.C. Openings in F&B, Landscape, & Golf Course Maint.

Competitive wages 941-378-3608. or email: info@laureloak.com

©2021 Universal Uclick

HAMMOCK BRAND new in package: $40. Call, no text: 941-879-7105.

LIKE NEW: 3 Pier 1 Barstools black lattice weave leather seats $75.

941-388-8608.

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

Longboat Key Beach House: on Canal, 3BED-3BATH, 2/CARGAR, Dock/Lift. $530,000.

BEACH'N RIDES eBike Sales and Service We sell and repair Electric Bicycles from our Shop at 12208 Cortez Road, W., in Cortez, Florida.

(941) 251-7916. www.beachnrides.com

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

941-809-3660, 941-809-3662.

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

Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

Homes for Sale PALM AIRE spacious golf villa on lovely pond. Living room, dining area, den, up-to-date kitchen, 2BD/2BA + walk in shower. /2Cargar w/ courtyard and garden.

941-359-9710 or 708-265-4887.

You’re only cheating yourself.

END TABLES: Vintage mersman, bisque wood, glass tops. $100 for both.

941-355-9057

Autos Service

RED PAGES AD RATES

2.5 Acres: 4BED/3BATH, 3CAR GAR. Luxury kitchen, barn, horses. $645,000

peekers’ place

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

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.

CAKE DECORATORBaskin Robbins Earn $10 to $14 an hour, make your own hours, fun job, work on your own and chance to work on your creativity and make beautiful cakes with your own designs! https://apply.jobappnetwork.co m/dunkin-donuts-ssrm-qfrm

real estate

Items Under $200

Merchandise Wanted

55+ Beach and Boating: One story villa 2BED-2BATH $424,000

Help Wanted

auto

stuff

STAINLESS STEEL box 18/12/10 w attached lid. $15.

Jeans w/ holes. 3 pairs for $20.

941-741-9727.

University Pool/Spa 4BED3BATH $425,000

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.

We’ll SWEEP you off your feet!

RED PAGES

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “To create something exceptional, your mindset must be relentlessly focused on the smallest detail.”

Giorgio Armani Puzzle Two Solution: “My customer has her own sense of style ... My goal is to help women become the best version of themselves.” – Tom Ford

This week’s Sudoku answers

©2021 NEA, Inc.

RED PAGES. MADE FOR WHERE YOU LIVE. HERE! TO ADVERTISE CALL 941-955-4888 OR VISIT YOUROBSERVER.COM/REDPAGES

Cleaning

Moving

BRAZILIAN CLEANING Service by Maria. Residential.

Meticulous Cleaning. Excellent References. Free Estimates.

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

MOVING? UNIQUE PACKING/UNPACKING SERVICES. Hire the pros.

(941) 800-3700 www.weunpack4you.com

GARAGE SALE

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

As low as $17.50 per week!

941-955-4888 CLAUDIA C. Cleaning Services.

Experienced, dependable, and ready to begin!

Residential.

Excellent references.

941-773-6895.

CLEANING BY Brazilian Lady.

Meticulous, reliable, deep cleaning specialist. Residential.

Commercial. New Construction.

941-400-2866.

for great deals.

Visit YourObserver.com/RedPages

Computer

Doors

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

Sliding Glass Door Repair

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

“Specializing in 6” Seamless Gutters”

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

“FIX IT - DON’T REPLACE” New Deluxe Rollers Will Make Your Doors Roll Better Than Ever Call Mark 928-2263 proslidingglassdoorrepair.com

Pegatronics.com 350825

941.650.9790 YoderAluminum.com

Owner / Operator Insured

RED PAGES

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.

Aluminum

Dustin Yoder

SEARCH the

Painting

349956

941-735-3362

Auto Service

Handyman

Construction

SELL YOUR CAR!

ARCHIMEDES

✔ Concrete repair, tear-outs repairs ✔ Sidewalks, patios, and driveways ✔ Painting interior, exterior

Kitchen Renovations and Upgrades Visit our showroom

5-Star Rated

HoHoBuysCars.com

(941) 650-7758

bschule88@gmail.com

Doors

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

• Window Repairs • Sliding Glass Door Repairs • Sliding Glass Door Deadbolts

351628

www.ezslider.com

ON TARGET

✔ Pressure cleaning, mobile homes, cleaning gutters ✔ All forms of yard maintenance and Tree work ✔ Insured/Free Estimates

Owner Ron Willard . 941-580-7584 . ahsllc@fastservice.com

BUZZ! CREATE Advertise your business or services in the Red Pages.

Call 941-955-4888 YourObserver.com/RedPages

Health

THE BEST This Doctor is Among

SPINAL DECOMPRESSION PHYSICIANS IN AMERICA

Call us today!

941.628.8579

349958

7262 55th Ave East, Bradenton, 34203 351217

941.270.4400

30+ YEARS EXPERIENCE No Money Down Reliable On Time Every Time

SERVICES, LLC

FAST • EASY • SAFE

WE COME TO YOU

351514

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

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

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

351800

Auto Transport

|

FREE IN-HOM ESTIMATEE S OBSERVER RED PAGES

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

“Medical Breakthrough Technology for bulging, herniated and degenerative disc ...

No Pain, No Drugs, No Injections, No Surgery” Board Certified in the specialty of non-surgical spinal decompression

DR. DAVID CIFRA, DC University Health Park 2415 University Parkway Bldg. 3, Suite 216 Sarasota, FL 34243

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com

Call 941.358.2224 today to schedule a

FREE CONSULTATION

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

350452

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

home services

18B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

Home Services

Movers

Bisson Roofing Inc.

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

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

Specializing in Reroofs and Repairs FREE Estimates • 30 Years Experience

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

351515

RESIDENTIAL MOVES LONG DISTANCE MOVES VALUABLE MOVES INTERNATIONAL MOVES

Painting

941.966.0333

Faulkner’s

DrGrabBars.com COVERAGE AREA: LAKEWOOD RANCH ƭƨ S. VENICE

Free Estimate 941-922-3996

941-626-3194

Licensed & Insured CCC - 058059 CBC - 1253936

Complete Interior & Exterior Painting

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

350454

Screening • Pool Cage Restoration • Rescreening Specialists • Specialty Screens • Paint • Doors and more!

Satisfaction guarantee Satisfaction Guarantee Pool cage Restoration/ Rescreening specialists Manufacture and Workmanship Warranties

Power Washing Pressure Washing

Pressure Washing

351517

954-1878

941-345-5264

specialty screens / screw replacement / paint

SHOWER & BATH MAKEOVERS

Honesty, Integrity and Pride

Cleaned - Regrouted - Caulked - Sealed

350641

941-544-1066

BEFORE

AFTER

CRACKED TILE REPAIR CALL: 941-545-6816

| scaperotta@aol.com

Italian American Owned

Windows

BIODEGRADABLE PRODUCTS

Res./Com.

349959

941-737-4483 www.PantherHydroCleaning.com

941-739-5102

10 SAVINGS %

5002 LENA RD, UNIT 107, BRADENTON, 34211 WWW.SMALLENGINEREPAIRS.US

Movers

dmccarthymoving@gmail.com

Local And Long Distance Movers Residential Moves Commercial Moves Pack, Crate & Wrap

Licensed

www.davidmccarthymoving.com

“No Job Too Small”

Insured

349960

10% OFF FOR MENTIONING THIS AD

941-270-1561 350453

ROAD HUGGER found here.

Whether you’re looking for high performance or a gas sipper, we have the listings to find your next ride.

RED PAGES Made for where you live. Here!

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

25

UP TO

STANDARD WINDOWS

Eldridge Re-Screen

...will move anything from a couch to a household • • • •

With this ad

Rescreening & Repairs

David McCarthy Moving 941-704-4278

Form Serving Longboat Key Since 2005

349957

Houses, Pool Cage & Decks, Fences, Driveways & Walks Irrigation, Fertilizer, Rust & Battery Stain Removal

Lic./Ins.

& Pressure C Window lean t e s ing s a S u n n w r o i s n e k W Sun y ind erl

Pressure Cleaning & Soft Washing Residential and Commercial

SMALL ENGINE REPAIRS

Warranties

(941) 345-5264

SAFE ROOF CLEANING

SALES & REPAIRS - MOWERS, GENERATORS, TRIMMERS, PRESSURE WASHERS, CHAIN SAWS, BLOWERS, ENGINES

Tile

Manufacture and workmanship

Serving Sarasota/Manatee Area Since 2004

www.showerandbathsarasota.com Lawn Care

Doors and more!

• Roofs • Pool Cages • Decks • Driveways • Deck/Paver Sealing • And Much More

350827

Call John 941.377.2940

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

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

GLENN KROECKER

Free Estimates • Sarasota Resident Since 1974

Driveways Deck Staining Roof Cleaning

Building & Roofing Contractor

UNIQUE PAINTING & PRESSURE WASHING SERVICES

THE GRAB BAR GUY (cell) 780-3346 Licensed & Insured

Kenneth Fuhlman Inc.

Painting & Pressure Cleaning

351520

351516

LIFETIME GUARANTEE Licensed • Bonded • Insured

351320

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

www.bissonroofing.com

Owner Supervises Every Job

350478

$

941-909-2268 | www.lakewoodranchmovers.com

ows

120

$

INCLUDING SCREENS, TRACKS, MIRRORS & FANS

SPECIAL 00 5

$

senior citizen discount. www.sunsetwindowcleaningsrq.com

Purified water window cleaning available!!

Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES | 941- 284 - 5880

351521

235

COMPLETE INSTALLATION PACKAGE

RC0067420 • Lic. & Ins.

351519

GRAB BARS

CALL BEFORE YOU FALL

941 - 748 - 7400 351518

Kitchen/Bath Remodeling

350828

941-705-5468

Commercial

19B

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

Roofing

Are You Having Dryer Difficulties?

Residential

|

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

Escape

SWING

into SAVINGS!

EXTRA

10% OFF* New orders only. Minimum order $1999.

*

the Everyday

Shop our huge selection of ready-to-deliver stock including outdoor sectionals, dining, lounge chairs, pool furniture, fire tables, and so much more.

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD OUTDOOR FURNITURE STORE OFFERING THE FINEST IN PATIO FURNITURE AND ACCESSORIES.

VISIT OUR NEWLY EXPANDED SHOWROOM Sarasota: 7606 S. Tamiami Tr. Ste. 101 (½ mi. South of Clark Rd. on 41) MON-SAT 10AM - 6PM, SUN 12-5PM PRIVATE SHOWROOM APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

SARASOTA • BONITA SPRINGS • NAPLES

WWW.ELEGANTOUTDOORS.COM • 941-217-6547

FOLLOW US

351072-1

20B

. . . t i a W But

S ’ E R THE !

E R MO

XNLV19038

Flip the page for more sales and specials!