East County Observer 3 23 17

E A ST COUNTY

Observer Lakewood Ranch’s weekly newspaper since 1998

Community Fund hosts gala. SEE PAGE 18

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

•

FREE THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

VOLUME 19, NO. 18

YOUR TOWN Find the wine This is your chance to win tickets to attend Florida Winefest & Auction events. Find the wine bottle inside this issue and visit yourobserver. com/contests/ wheres-thewine-contest#/ to enter.

Near the finish

New Benderson Park landmark nears completion. SEE PAGE 3

Jay Heater

The Benderson Park finish tower is due to be completed in about eight weeks.

Hope’s World

Braden River Elementary fifth-grader is world class in geography. SEE PAGE 8

Courtesy photo

Whopper of a fish story GreyHawk Landing’s Levi Francis, 6, was honored to pose with his dad, Marcus Francis, after landing a 22.5-inch catfish March 12 during the community’s fourth annual fishing tournament. It was the biggest whopper of the day.

Organizers from the GreyHawk Landing Events Group welcomed 56 children, who were up bright and early to throw their lines in the water.

A+E

Berkley Mason

Braden River Elementary fifth-grader Hope Tudor has qualified for the state level of competition in the National Geographic Bee.

Project comes C of age

Del Webb courts seniors in Lakewood Ranch.

PAM EUBANKS SENIOR EDITOR

Learning together INSIDE

arol and Ned Conlin have their paddles ready.

The pickleball enthusiasts only have a few more days before they can head to the courts at Del Webb at Lakewood Ranch.

The first phase of the community’s amenities will open March 25. Among them are eight pickleball courts, four bocce courts and six tennis courts.

“I’ve been playing for eight years,” Carol Conlin said. “I never played tennis. I have bad knees.”

So far, residents of the 130 homes sold at Del Webb have been getting together through meet-and-greets, happy hours and social outings organized by Lifestyle Director Amy Vleck. By the end of the week, they can take their friends to the community’s new sports courts for lessons, practice or socializing.

The newly constructed courts are just a glimpse at what’s to come. Across a parking lot from SEE PAGE 4

2

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THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

Brighter future in Lakewood Ranch

OTHER BUSINESS

Lakewood Ranch CDDs could save more than $231,000 collectively with new LED streetlights.

PAM EUBANKS

WHERE WILL LED LIGHTS GO?

SENIOR EDITOR

S

treetlights throughout Lakewood Ranch Phase I soon will be casting brighter light and generating a collective savings of approximately $231,000 annually.

Synergy Lighting, a national supplier of light-emitting diode lighting, on March 20 began converting streetlights in Lakewood Ranch Community Development Districts 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6 (Summerfield/Riverwalk, Greenbrook and Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club) to LED fixtures.

Lakewood Ranch Town Hall’s operations department expects the changeover, once complete, to save the districts between $2,500 and $32,000 annually.

Savings vary by number of lights within the district, whether the district is serviced by Florida Power & Light or Peace River Electric Cooperative, or both, and according to the service contracts with electricity providers.

Synergy contractors are starting with lights in CDD 1, along

Synergy will install the LED fixtures along Lakewood Ranch Boulevard from State Road 70 to University Parkway; Palmbrush Terrace west of Lakewood Ranch Boulevard; Summerfield Parkway; Clubhouse Drive from Lakewood Ranch Boulevard west to River Club Boulevard; Greenbrook Boulevard; Arnold Palmer Green; Legacy Boulevard from The Masters Avenue to Arnold Palmer Green; and at the entrances into Edgewater and Boca Grove.

Lakewood Ranch Boulevard near its intersection with State Road 70. They have 90 days to complete the installation, although crews expect to be finished in about 45 days.

“It was a long time coming,” said Paul Chetlain, director of operations for the Lakewood

Pam Eubanks

Synergy Lighting crews are starting the installation at the northern end of Lakewood Ranch Boulevard, south of State Road 70.

Ranch Inter-District Authority. “Everybody agreed it was the right thing to do. The districts are going to save money and simplify maintenance.”

The project was approved in the 2016 fiscal year budgets for the districts, but a request for proposals in January 2016 yielded

only one responsive bid.

IDA’s staff revised its bid request and went back out for proposals in May. Bids came back in fall 2016, and Synergy was selected as the preferred contractor.

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The Lakewood Ranch Community Development Districts have taken steps to prepare for the future.

Although the districts already put aside money for future repair and maintenance projects, each district voted to hire Florida Reserve Study and Appraisal to perform a full, independent reserve study.

“This report will enable us to determine the annual contribution we would like to put aside in the budgets,” said Steve Zielinkski, the Lakewood Ranch Town Hall financial director. “It’s going to validate the quality of the assets and the types of assets. It also identifies the replacement value and the life cycle of that asset.”

The study will include assets such as lift stations, sidewalks and other infrastructure.

Zielinski said he hopes the study will be complete by early May, so the districts can use the findings in the upcoming budget discussions, slated for summer.

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3

Towering over the competition

Photos by Jay Heater

SANCA President Bob Sullivan said Nathan Benderson Park’s new finish tower will be a premier structure.

Finish tower puts Nathan Benderson Park among the best rowing facilities in the world.

JAY HEATER MANAGING EDITOR

S

tanding on the top floor observation deck of Nathan Benderson Park’s new finish tower, Bob Sullivan looked into the distance, the tallest buildings of downtown Sarasota lining the horizon while the Radcliffe crew team practiced far below on the water.

“We are only limited by our imagination,” said Sullivan, the president of Suncoast Aquatic Nature Center Associates, the nonprofit created to manage Nathan Benderson Park.

The finish tower is eight weeks from completion with mostly windows to be installed and cosmetic work left to be accomplished. Once the windows are in place, the scaffolding that lines the structure will be removed.

In terms of timing, the finish tower will be completed in plenty of time for the 2017 World Rowing Championships that will be hosted by Nathan Benderson Park Sept. 24 through Oct. 1.

A much smaller facility would have fit the bill for that event, but SANCA executives wanted to have more than a building that served one purpose.

“We definitely didn’t want to build a white elephant,” said Bob Whitford, the director of facilities and operations for SANCA. “And we wanted to create something iconic to the park.”

Whitford left California in February 2011 for a job with SANCA because the organization had huge dreams for the park. The promise was not only to build one of the top rowing facilities in America, but the world.

Along with that goal, the prop-

The Radcliffe crew team practices at Nathan Benderson Park last week.

erty was, indeed, a park. SANCA wanted to serve local residents in myriad ways.

The six-floor finish tower will host SANCA offices, house officials during athletic events and provide VIP viewing points and observation decks during events.

It will have conference rooms that can be rented by any organization needing a special space.

Hosting a wedding rehearsal dinner? How about renting a floor with spectacular views?

“This was a finishing element to the park,” Sullivan said. “The finish tower will be identified with the park itself, and diversification is something we strive for.

We have a blank slate now and we see the potential.”

Last week, Whitfield and Sullivan led a tour of the building, starting with the open breezeway feature of the first floor that will allow spectators — VIP or otherwise — to have a clear view of any activities on the lake while staying out of the sun or rain.

The second floor will have a multipurpose room and reception area that will spill out to an open deck. It could be a viewing area for VIPs or sponsors or could be rented by a group wanting to host a reception.

Another floor up is a conference

room along with the area where officials will be able to judge any event taking place on or around the lake. It’s kind of a command center and control area.

The SANCA offices will be on the fourth floor along with space for any broadcast team covering an event. On the fifth floor will be another balcony and reception area along with meeting rooms. It is the highest floor with a ceiling, and provides the best views for someone wanting to host a special gathering. There is an area that will hold “sky boxes” as well.

The top floor, or observation deck, is about 90 feet above the ground. It will have a glass rail all around and offer a great vantage point.

Whitford and Sullivan said one of the best features is the tower will be ready to serve any event.

“Everything will be ready on a turnkey basis,” Whitford said.

With the finish tower complete, Whitford said Nathan Benderson Park will be known worldwide.

“You see beautiful arenas and natatoriums,” Whitfield said.

“Athletes want to be rewarded.

Well, this is it. Whether it’s a regional or a world championship, or a high school event, they are coming to our place.”

Whitford said the only finish

IN COMPARISON CHESAPEAKE ENERGY FINISH LINE TOWER Where: Oklahoma City Floors: 4 Square feet: 7,500 Height: 60 feet Designed by: Rand Elliott Cost: $6.5 million Who paid?: The entire cost was paid by Chesapeake Energy Corp.

BENDERSON PARK FINISH TOWER Where: Sarasota Floors: 6 Square feet: 25,745 Height: 90 feet Designed by: Guy Peterson Cost: $5.8 million Who paid?: The entire cost was paid by the Nathan Benderson Family Foundation.

tower in the United States that can compare is the Chesapeake Energy Finish Line Tower in Oklahoma City.

“But we’re bigger and more functional. We can use this building on a daily basis,” he said.

Sullivan agrees.

“This gets us to a new level,” he said. “This is where you want to be. This is the Yankee Stadium.

We are setting a standard for the rest of the country to follow.”

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THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

A site to BEHOLD. Hyper-local news and information everywhere you are.

Courtesy image

This aerial photograph shows construction of the new multimillion dollar amenity center, expected to open in late 2017.

Del Webb FROM PAGE 1

the sports courts, Del Webb developer Pulte Group is constructing a 27,000-square-foot clubhouse.

When completed in the fall, the clubhouse will include a stateof-the-art fitness center, group fitness studio, catering kitchen for residents’ private parties and a Wi-Fi cafe. There also will be

“We’re going to have wine tastings, yoga classes and a full-time amenities director.”

— Brian Phillips, general sales manager for Del Webb at Lakewood Ranch

areas for gathering, a lakefront restaurant and a resort-style pool with lap lanes, a spa and a fire pit.

The Conlins are eager for it to be finished. They spent the past nine years in a Del Webb community in South Carolina before moving to Florida in September.

“It’s a great way to meet people and get together,” Carol Conlin said of the future amenity center. “We didn’t buy a house, we bought a lifestyle.”

That’s the main reason Pulte Group, developer of Del Webbbranded communities, is moving forward.

“We’re at a position now where we have enough residents and homes sold, we feel it’s the right time to provide it. The residents expect it, too,” said Brian Phillips, general sales manager for Del Webb at Lakewood Ranch and other Pulte Group projects in theSarasota-Manatee area. “We’re going to have wine tastings, yoga classes and a full time amenities

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Carol Conlin, a Del Webb at Lakewood Ranch resident, is happy the pickleball courts are opening March 25. She has been playing pickleball for about eight years.

Photos by Pam Eubanks

There will be eight pickleball courts at the amenity center. The sports courts are the first phase of amenities and are slated to open March 25.

director,” he said. “Because we’re the only active adult community, that’s why we’re making this center so large. There will be all kinds of events at this facility.”

Sales in Lakewood Ranch’s only 55-plus community have been strong. Since opening in November 2015, the community has signed 210 contracts and had 130 closings, as of March 16.

By comparison, Pulte Group’s Mallory Park project, a roughly 300-home Lakewood Ranch community offering homes in roughly the same price range — from the low $200,000s to more than $500,000 — has sold about 50 houses since sales started in August. That’s an average of about seven sales per month, compared with Del Webb’s aver-

age of about 14.

Phillips said Del Webb’s success is being driven largely by the fact it is the only age-restricted, active lifestyle community in Lakewood Ranch, and the only Del Webb brand project in the Lakewood Ranch and Sarasota markets.

Customers also are responding to floor plans, customization options and the development’s

aesthetics.

March is already on pace for 17 sales, above Pulte Group’s goal of 12 to 15 per month for Del Webb at Lakewood Ranch. Phillips expects that figure to grow in the coming months, possibly to as high as 30 a month.

“Having a full lifestyle center is going to generate more sales,” he said.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

In-house pick a SMART choice STAFF WRITER

Knowing the Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy board was seeking its third executive director over the past year, Darrin Simone had an epiphany.

The perfect candidate was sitting in plain sight.

“We (the board) went through a few people, and they just were not the right fit,” said Simone, who is the board president. “Little did we know the perfect person was sitting right under our nose. She was already here.”

Brandi Ezell, 44, had worked for SMART since 2013, beginning as a volunteer, before moving into an administrative assistant’s position and eventually into the assistant executive director position. On March 1, Ezell became SMART’s new executive director.

“She understands the organization and knows our mission,” Simone said. “So we talked to her about taking over.”

Ezell accepted.

“I have been growing into this position,” Ezell said. “I was able to see what it is like through being a volunteer, I certainly know what it is like as a parent. Being assis-

What: Mint Juleps & Roses When: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

May 6 Where: SMART, 4640 Waterbury Road, Bradenton Cost: $75 per person (includes buffet dinner, auction and viewing of the Kentucky Derby on the big screen).

Contact: For tickets and information call the SMART office at 322-2000.

tant executive director exposed me to another layer of how things run. Now it is time for that final layer.”

SMART is an organization that offers a horsemanship program to people with special needs. Ezell’s 10-year-old son, Austin Ezell, first brought her to SMART. “Austin connected with a horse,” Ezell said. “We started coming here once a week, and that wasn’t enough, then we started coming twice a week — still not enough. Then once we started coming three times a week they hired me as administrative assistant. I quit my job in Jacksonville and came here to work.”

Ezell wasn’t sure she would get the opportunity to lead SMART, but she loves challenges and she

Berkley Mason

Monty and SMART Executive Director Brandi Ezell hang out at the ranch.

saw how Gail Clifton, the previous executive director, dealt with those challenges.

“I was incredibly honored to be considered for the spot, and I am definitely up for the challenge,” she said.

She already has a number of goals she would like to accomplish.

“Gail Clifton did a good job maintaining SMART’s impeccable reputation in the community and I want to keep that, of course,” Ezell said.

Her first big SMART event will be May 6 for the Mint Juleps & Roses. She also would love to

have a covered arena built, which, she said, would allow SMART to operate year-round.

“Right now, our horsemanship program is from September through June,” Ezell said. “We have to close down in July through August because the heat is too tough on the horses and volunteers.”

Ezell wants more people to experience SMART. “I love everything about SMART,” Ezell said. “I would really like to see some new faces. I want new people to get into the organization and get excited about it.”

AT A GLANCE Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy is an organization whose mission is to “enrich the lives of people with special needs through therapeutic horse-related programs,” according to its website.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

EAST COUNTY

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

Friedrich Hayek

“Road to Serfdom,” 1944 Editor / CEO / Matt Walsh mwalsh@yourobserver.com Vice President / Lisa Walsh lwalsh@yourobserver.com Publisher / Emily Walsh ewalsh@yourobserver.com Associate PublisherEast County Observer / Lori Ruth lruth@yourobserver.com Executive Editor / Kat Hughes khughes@yourobserver.com Managing Editor / Jay Heater jheater@yourobserver.com Senior Editor / Pam Eubanks peubanks@yourobserver.com Sports Reporter / Ryan Kohn rkohn@yourobserver.com Staff Writer / Berkley Mason bmason@yourobserver.com News Innovation Editor / Alex Mahadevan alexm@yourobserver.com

Photos by Berkley Mason

Hope Tudor, a Braden River Elementary fifth-grader, takes a break from her geography textbooks that she hopes will prepare her for the state level of the National Geographic Bee.

STUDENT GOES GLOBAL BERKLEY MASON STAFF WRITER

T

he sky might be the limit for Braden River Elementary fifth-grader Hope Tudor, but she has her sights set on the sea.

“My dream is to be a marine biologist researcher because I love the ocean,” Tudor said. “I want to make discoveries deeper than ever before. People on Earth know more about the surface of the moon than the depths of the ocean, so I want to discover all the things that are missing.”

One thing that isn't missing is Tudor's knowledge of geography.

She has qualified for the National Geographic Bee state level competition March 31 at Jacksonville University. The national championship will be held May 14-17 at the National Geographic Society Headquarters in Washington, D.C. Although the competition includes students from fourth up to eighth grade, Tudor is confident.

“It feels great to be younger,” Tudor said. “It shows that even

if you are younger than everyone else, you can do whatever you want, and change the world. I am nervous, though, because I don’t know how good the other people are.”

Tudor was 11 months old when she was adopted from Jiangxi, China. She said the world always has fascinated her.

So it was a match when Braden River Elementary teacher Kelly Gavin, who works with gifted students, offered Tudor the chance to dive into a geography competition. Tudor has been with Gavin once a week since she was in second grade.

“All of my students tried to qualify for the state geography bee, but only Hope did,” Gavin said. “Since she’s qualified, she has really taken geography to heart. She eats, breathes and lives it now, and she really want to win. I give her so many things to study, but she’s also gone out and bought books on her own.

Hope has always been a very eager learner.”

Tudor’s mother, Debra, said her daughter always has absorbed all that life threw at her.

“One time, she came up to me and said that she had something to tell me,” Debra Tudor said.

“She told me that when she is bored, she reads the dictionary. I cracked up.”

Sometimes, Tudor’s constant desire to learn new things

Braden River Elementary student Hope Tudor and her mom, Debra, enjoy the inspiration on her school’s message board.

CAN YOU TOP A FIFTH-GRADER? Try these questions used in the National Geographic Bee.

1

The distinctive shape of Europe's Matterhorn was created by which agent of erosion?

A. Wind B. Water C. Ice

2

In 1652, the Dutch established which African port as a supply post for ships bound for Asia?

A. Capetown B. Algiers C. Alexandria

Editorial Designers / C.J. Major cmajor@yourobserver.com; Meghan Sasser, msasser@yourobserver.com, Laura Woodside, lwoodside@yourobserver.com 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 / JP Clayton, jpclayton@yourobserver.com Robyn Didelot, rdidelot@yourobserver.com Beth Jacobson, bjacobson@yourobserver.com Allison Kummery, akummery@yourobserver. com Robert Lewis, blewis@yourobserver.com Richeal Parisi, rparisi@yourobserver.com Toni Perren, tperren@yourobserver.com Diane de Spirlet, ddespirlet@yourobserver.com Sales Operations Manager / Susan Leedom, sleedom@yourobserver.com Sales Coordinator/Account Manager Lori Downey, ldowney@yourobserver.com Marisa Merlino, mmerlino@yourobserver.com Classified Advertising Sales Executives/ Maureen Hird, mhird@yourobserver.com

3

Which city is located in the eastern part of Washington state?

A. Spokane B. Olympia C. Auburn

4

In 2003, what European city became home to the United Nations permanent court for prosecuting war criminals?

A. the Hague B. Madrid C. Luxembourg

5

The Aegean, Ionian and Adriatic Seas are all part of which larger sea?

A. Caribbean B. Mediterranean C. Baltic

ANSWERS: 1. C; 2. A; 3. A; 4. A; 5. B.

Braden River Elementary fifth-grader always has been fascinated by the world and geography.

Arts + Entertainment Managing Editor / Nick Friedman, nfriedman@yourobserver.com Black Tie Reporter / Niki Kottmann, nkottmann@yourobserver.com

becomes a little overwhelming for Debra Tudor.

“She is animal crazy,” Debra Tudor said. “She loves locating where different species of dolphins are living, and she will always give me random facts — so many that your head wants to explode.”

It is rare Tudor is without a book in her hand.

She “gobbles” books up, Debra Tudor said.

“I love reading,” Hope Tudor said. “You can go anywhere in the world. There are no boundaries when you read.”

BIG EVENT What: State level competition in the National Geographic Bee Where: Terry Concert Hall at Jacksonville University When: 1 p.m. March 31

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

SIDE OF RANCH

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THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

9

JAY HEATER

New business proves firm reality of growth

S

“My first question to him was, ‘Where is the office going to be?’ I am not going anywhere.

Lakewood Ranch is our forever place.”

— Wanda Pistella

Jay Heater

Paula Chapman, a real estate closing specialist, joins partner Wanda Pistella at the Leech Tishman office in Lakewood Ranch.

their ideas for the future. At the top of the list was Pistella’s love of Lakewood Ranch.

“My first question to him was, ‘Where is the office going to be?’” Pistella said. “I am not going anywhere. Lakewood Ranch is our forever place.”

Pistella and her husband, Frank, live in Country Club along with their children, Anthony, 17, and Frank III, 21.

The younger Frank is attending his mom’s alma mater, the University of Florida, while Anthony

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attends Lakewood Ranch High School. They went to Willis and Nolan before Lakewood Ranch High School.

The older Frank is the director of student support for the Manatee County School District.

So the couple is entrenched in the area.

“I work, live and play in Lakewood Ranch,” Pistella said emphatically.

If Tishman and Pistella wondered whether they could grow in Lakewood Ranch, they had an

Jay Heater is the managing editor for the East County Observer.

Contact him at jheater@your observer.com

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answer in three weeks. Already they have outgrown their offices on the third floor of their new building, and they have negotiated to move to the first floor to a much larger space.

If you’re a Lakewood Ranch resident and you are wondering whether your home will continue to appreciate, Leech Tishman’s experience would seem to indicate things will continue to soar, even in the long run.

Master-planned growth continues to fuel more growth.

It’s the perfect storm for Leech Tishman. Pistella specializes in real estate law, and she has hired Paula Egan Chapman, a real estate closing specialist, to work in the office with her. Tishman’s specialties include wealth transfers and business succession planning, along with estate planning.

“Ted and I call it ‘happy law,’” Pistella said. “We like the idea that we are helping. We can help people secure and build their futures.”

If Pistella or Tishman can’t help a client, the firm has 75 other attorneys.

With his new business office thriving, Tishman now is doing his best to meet his neighbors.

“I have a polo match March 25 where I am serving hot dogs (for charity),” he said.

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o often, we think of Schroeder-Manatee Ranch’s master-planned community in Lakewood Ranch as attracting homeowners, and, indeed, that is correct.

But the other dynamic of that growth involves the attraction of business people to serve all those residents.

You get restaurants, grocery stores, dry cleaners, doctors and, of course, law firms.

Leech Tishman opened an office in Lakewood Ranch on March 1 at 8470 Enterprise Circle. That adds Lakewood Ranch to its offices in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Pittsburgh and Wilmington, Del. Ted Tishman, who moved to Country Club East, had all the usual reasons for wanting to move to Florida, including the fact he wanted to kiss off those rather rough Pittsburgh winters.

But beyond his desire to live in Florida, Tishman focused on Lakewood Ranch for his law firm, instead of its bigger neighbor, Sarasota. He wanted to be identified with his new community.

“Primarily, it’s the growth of Lakewood Ranch, a masterplanned community doing it the right way,” Tishman said. “It’s a tremendous opportunity for skilled professionals, and it’s land twice as big as Manhattan. I love the vibrancy.”

Once he decided he would open an office here, Tishman started looking for a local attorney who had contacts in the area and a solid reputation. He found Wanda Pistella, who owned Pistella Legal Services.

Pistella saw the Leech Tishman advertisement online for a new partner and immediately contacted the firm. Tishman called her, and both say they simply connected in terms of

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

Longtime training officer leaves local fire district His fire for the job still burns, but the head of East Manatee Fire Rescue’s training program wants a change.

PAM EUBANKS SENIOR EDITOR

E

ast Manatee Fire Rescue Lt. John Duffy recognized the talent more than two decades ago.

He was going to the Venice Fire Academy with a friend, Tim Hyden.

“Even in fire school, you knew he was going to be a leader or a teacher,” Duffy said. “You could just tell he had his head together.

He’s a funny, normal guy. You knew he was going to stay in the business and do great things.”

Hyden proved him right.

For the past 12 years, Hyden has served as the first full-time training officer for East Manatee Fire Rescue, building the district’s training program from scratch.

Unfortunately for the department, March 17 was Hyden’s final day.

“I hate to be leaving now,” said Hyden, noting the district is about to start construction on a new training tower. “This is

TRAINING TOWER The East Manatee Fire Rescue District is in the planning and design phase for a five-level, roughly 20-by40-foot training tower on the Station 1 property at 3220 Lakewood Ranch Blvd. District Fire Chief Lee Whitehurst hopes to start construction in June.

Construction will take about four months. The tower will be used for various training scenarios and allow firefighters to practice rescues in multilevel buildings.

something I’ve needed for years.”

However, the 57-year-old Hyden is ready for the change. He and his wife, Maureen, sold their house in Braden Woods and are moving to Clermont to be closer with Maureen Hyden’s siblings.

It’s also now a 20-minute drive to the couple’s favorite place, Walt Disney World.

“This has been coming for awhile,” Hyden said of his departure.

Hyden technically retired in 2014, but has continued working as allowed by the Florida Retirement System’s Deferred Retire-

Pam Eubanks

Tim Hyden started as East Manatee Fire Rescue District’s training officer, then a newly created position, in late 2004.

ment Option Program.

Hyden’s passion for the fire service goes back half his life. In his younger days, he was a car salesman in Jackson, Mich. But, in November 1992, he sought change and headed to Florida with the intent of becoming a fireman, after volunteering with the fire department where he was living.

“My (late) grandmother, Josephine McAvoy, was here,” Hyden said. “I’d been down and visited here and liked it.”

He volunteered with the Anna Maria Fire District, working odd jobs while attending firefighter school at Venice Fire Academy,

and continued volunteering until January 1996, at which time the department hired him full time.

“I’ve often said those three years as a volunteer were so cool,” Hyden said, noting the department organized fish fries and haunted houses as fundraisers.

“You don’t see much of that anymore.”

Hyden ran calls with the district when it and the West Side Fire District merged into what is now the West Manatee Fire District in the late 1990s.

Then, in 2004, Manatee County voters approved an ad valorem assessment for East Manatee Fire Rescue District, providing a new

revenue stream for the department. It created a position for a training officer, and Hyden jumped at the opportunity.

“I was at a point where I wanted to do more,” Hyden said. “Training was something I was already interested in.

“The tax enabled so many things to happen, me being one of them,” he said. “It allowed us to be proactive and prepare for growth.”

Hyden stepped into his new role in October 2004. In February 2005, the district added five firemen. In August 2005, it added 12 more, essentially doubling East Manatee’s firefighter count.

“That first year was a whirlwind,” Hyden said. “I had so much passion, it was oozing out of me, but it was hard to take that passion and apply it. It was a transition for everybody.”

Hyden looked at his job as if he were a chef, choosing the final entree and then making preparations to create a dish. He identified training needs and mapped out plans targeting those areas.

For example, with 10 miles of Interstate 75 in the district, he knew training in crash extrication and hazardous materials would be critical because nearly every call had a medical component to it.

“He’s organized the whole division, really,” Duffy said of Hyden.

“He set up everything we use today.”

East Manatee Fire Rescue Chief Lee Whitehurst was on the interview board that hired Hyden and said Hyden has helped keep the district ahead of the curve on health and safety issues.

“I saw him come and go,” Whitehurst said. “I know he’s happy about this, so I’m happy for him. It’s all on a good note.”

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MARCH 15

NO DISH-PAN HANDS 7300 block of 52nd Place East, Bradenton Information only: The Sheriff’s Office was contacted when two employees of a fast-food restaurant got into a heated argument about who was going to wash the dirty dishes. The argument escalated to the point where threats were alleged to have been made.

The deputy arrived and spoke to both parties and witnesses and issued a case card to both parties and told them the incident would be documented for informational purposes only.

MARCH 17

RECIPE FOR CRIME 2800 block of University Parkway, Sarasota Petit Theft: A man wearing an all-white chef’s uniform entered a grocery store and proceeded to load up his shopping cart with cases of beer and other items. He then exited the store without pay-

MAD GRAB FOR TRIMMER State Road 64 and Zipper Road, Bradenton Grand theft: A man came into the Sheriff’s Office to report he had pulled away from a job site when a lawn trimmer on the back of his truck fell out of the truck on the road. He got out of the truck and went to grab it, but another man drove up, threw it in his car and drove away.

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Store security said the man got into a tan-colored Dodge minivan and fled. The license number was obtained, but didn’t check out.

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DING-A-LINGS CAUSE STRESS 4600 block of 56th Terrace East, Bradenton Suspicious incident: Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched after four juveniles wearing dark clothing were observed jiggling on unoccupied vehicle door handles as well as front door handles of homes. When a witness saw the boys, they ran in opposite directions. A deputy found a boy hiding in the bushes and the boys said they were playing “Ding Dong Ditch.” The boy’s father was called and drove his son home.

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MARCH 15

COPS CORNER

DINE, DASH AND DUMB 8100 block of Cooper Creek Boulevard, Bradenton Theft: A couple dined at a restaurant and decided to dash without paying the check. They left $5 on the table for a meal that cost $68.80. The Sheriff’s Office was called and a deputy went to the scene. The woman who had dashed left her wallet in the booth and it contained her driver’s license. The wallet and its contents were entered into property and evidence. The woman later returned, and she struck an agreement with the restaurant to pay the bill in full and therefore was presented with a waiver of prosecution.

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

Veterans awareness gets a green light Students campaign for homeowners to show their support of military veterans.

PAM EUBANKS SENIOR EDITOR

M

Pam Eubanks

Greenbrook resident Mikaela Boelkins, 14, is promoting the use of green lights in Lakewood Ranch around Memorial Day. The lights will be placed in lights attached to the garage.

ikaela Boelkins, a student at R. Dan Nolan Middle School, and her friends are putting a spotlight — rather a green light — on veterans.

After learning about “Greenlight a Vet,” a nationwide campaign to establish visible support for veterans by changing one light at a residence to green, Boelkins wanted to get involved.

Her dilemma, however, was finding a way to do it.

Lakewood Ranch’s homeowners associations, including hers in Greenbrook, generally restrict homeowners from using nonstandard color lightbulbs in coach and lamppost lights.

“There’s stuff we can do to help veterans have a more smooth transition, but it is limited,” Boelkins said. “Veterans are looking for community support.”

Boelkins last month asked the Greenbrook Village Association to allow green bulbs outside so homeowners could visibly show support for military veterans.

The board agreed to pilot the idea, with some restrictions.

Greenlight a Vet is a national campaign to change one light in a visible location in your home or office to green and keep it glowing every day as a symbol of support and appreciation for military veterans. To learn more about the Greenlight a Vet initiative, visit greenlightavet.com.

LEARN ABOUT THE PROJECT To learn about Manatee Future Problem Solving’s veterans awareness project, visit its website, stcmanatee.com.

and supported by the community.

The group itself is talking with veterans to learn more about their service experiences, post-traumatic stress and other issues that affect their lives when they return home.

“It is essentially a project that evolves around a soldier transitioning to civilian life,” Boelkins said.

On March 11, the group rallied more than 40 students from across the county to mingle and play games with veterans.

They’ve also attended packing parties hosted by Manasota Operation Troop Support, which packs and mails packages to service members overseas.

The team created a documentary of veterans, which has been submitted to the Manatee Film Festival.

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The HOA will limit use of the lights to specified times of the year. The dates have not yet been finalized, but Mikaela expects they will be May 21 to May 30, in conjunction with Memorial Day. “We were very impressed with the way she presented the concept and the whole idea behind it,” Greenbrook Village Association board member Steve Balazic said, noting board members did have some concerns about community aesthetics. “We agreed we would allow her to publicize this and sell the green lights to be used in Greenbrook for a oneweek trial. We don’t want to end up with green lights throughout the community that never go out again. We want to make sure people understand the initiative.”

Later presentations to the Country Club/Edgewater Village Association and Summerfield/ Riverwalk Association proved successful as well.

Boelkins said the Wal-Mart at 5810 Ranch Lake Blvd., has agreed to carry the green light bulbs, which cost less than $1 for a twopack. She and teammates on her Manatee Community Problem Solvers team sat outside the store March 19 to sell bulbs and raise awareness.

It is just one part of a larger “Soldiers to Civilians” project the 12-member team is doing with a goal of helping veterans, particularly those recently returned from deployments, to feel understood

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

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WINTER TRAIN TO PARRISH: When the Florida Live Steamers had their winter meet at the Manatee Central Railroad in Parrish, some Del Webb Lakewood Ranch friends took to the rails. Enjoying the ride under palm trees and live oaks covered in Spanish moss are Rhonda Blaustein, Donna Ristow, Karen Swofford, Irene Abbott, Dorothy Lerman, Jeannine Callahan and Cathy Quigley.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

Technologically speaking ... he’s No. 1 Braden River senior and his TSA team attempt to defend national title.

IF YOU GO What: 2017 National TSA Conference When: June 21-25 Where: Rosen Shingle Creek, 9939 Universal Blvd., Orlando

BERKLEY MASON STAFF WRITER

Ever since Braden River High senior Griffin Trautweiler became president of his high school’s Technology Student Association team as a freshman, he has had a vision.

It is just that his vision keeps changing.

When “Griff” was first elected president of TSA, the team had won nationals twice before — in 2012 and 2013 — and he had some big expectations to meet.

“Toward the beginning of my presidency (when he was a freshman), I was focused on getting back to how good we were,” Trautweiler said. “From there on out, it was all about how much further we could take it.”

The Pirates took first place in the TSA State Championships all four years, and even won a national championship in 2016.

So his vision went from returning to grandeur, to winning a state championship, to earning a national title, and now, defending that title.

TSA is an organization that attempts to enhance personal development, leadership and career opportunities by concentrating on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). It challenges the students through having them compete by develop-

Berkley Mason

Braden River High senior Griffin Trautweiler plays with the lighting at Bayside Community Church.

ing projects that relate to STEM. Trautweiler will be leading 40 of his best TSA teammates to nationals one last time before graduating in the spring, and he has tremendous faith that his team will bring him another firstplace trophy at nationals.

“We did last year, and we have a better team this year,” Trautweiler said.

In 2016, the team broke a state record with 17 first-place trophies out of 36 possible. This year, the team was awarded 20 first-place

trophies.

Gil Burlew, Braden River High’s TSA adviser, doesn’t know if any team will approach 20 wins again.

“It was really unbelievable what we did,” he said.

Trautweiler has been able to mold a team of leaders, making him more of a facilitator.

“If you don’t know the answer to a question, you know exactly which person to direct them to,” Trautweiler said.

Besides being president, Trautweiler has been able to find his

own niche on the team.

When he first became involved in TSA as a sixth-grader at R. Dan Nolan Middle School, he didn’t win a first-place trophy, but it was “fun,” so he continued.

His passion and talent for computer-aided design (CAD) was his ticket to earning his role at Braden River.

Trautweiler has since found a new passion — video and lighting.

He discovered this passion after he started volunteering at Bayside Community Church when he was

in seventh grade.

He was hired a year ago as the church’s East Bradenton Campus Next Generation visual production coordinator.

“I started learning a lot about video, and it was awesome, so I ended up just trying it out,” Trautweiler said. “It was random, but I wanted to do it. It was my new thing.”

Trautweiler said video production and lighting are his specialties. When it comes to different TSA events, he does video production, leading this year’s video production team in the state championships and taking home a first-place trophy.

Three of his other crews took first place in “Webmaster” and “On Demand Video” at this year’s state competition. Each team typically has about six people participating in each of the 36 events.

Trautweiler said he can’t do it alone. Daniel Rodrigues is his vice president and his “right hand man.”

“Daniel is the man,” Trautweiler said. “He is always supportive of the direction, and he’s a fantastic team leader.”

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MARCH 23, 2017

SPORTS

“Work harder than your biggest competitor.

Be better than your rivals.”

– Sereena Feeney. SEE PAGE 17

HIGH

Armed and 5 dangerous Two Lakewood Ranch pitchers separate the Mustangs from the rest.

1

Lakewood Ranch softball senior Morgan Cummins hit two home runs March 16 in the Mustangs’ 10-4 win over Braden River.

2

Out-of-Door Academy girls lacrosse junior Sereena Feeney scored four goals March 14 in the Thunder’s 15-5 win over Tampa Catholic.

Photos by Ryan Kohn

Kailey Christian and Logan Newton after the Mustangs’ 10-4 win over Braden River.

RYAN KOHN SPORTS REPORTER

3

Lakewood Ranch baseball junior Pablo Garabitos threw a complete game, giving up zero earned runs and tallying nine strikeouts March 14 in the Mustangs’ 5-1 win over Braden River.

4

Kim Brown won the Ladies’ Golf Association Club Championship at University Park Country Club on March 7 and March 14 with a 170 over two rounds.

W

ith a roster deep with talent, the Lakewood Ranch High School softball team is making itself hard to ignore.

The Mustangs are ranked third in the nation by FloSoftball and fourth by MaxPreps as of March 18. Whichever service you prefer, it’s clear that the Mustangs are for real.

Their offensive prowess is cer-

5

Lynn Lockhorn won University Park Country Club’s nine-hole “Wearing of the Greenies” event on March 16.

MUSTANGS LAND NEW QB PAGE 16

Logan Newton fires a pitch during a victory over Braden River.

tainly worthy of recognition, but pitching rules in softball. Every great team has an ace it can lean on when things go wrong at the plate. What differentiates Lakewood Ranch from most teams is that it doesn’t have one ace. It has two.

Senior Logan Newton and junior Kailey Christian are the team’s deadly duo on the mound.

The pair allowed just five combined runs through the Mustangs’ first 10 games (all wins), and three of those runs came in one game against Braden River on March 16, a night when the temperature fell below 60 degrees at first pitch and the lights at Lakewood Ranch shut off, causing a delay in the fourth inning. In other words, everything was just a bit wonky.

Both pitchers have similar philosophies on the mound. They don’t care about their individual stats, or even know what they are. Newton said they have never been “big number people.” They are confident in their team’s defensive abilities and view their job as simply letting the defense make plays on the ball. It’s been an effective strategy so far. Newton said she throws four pitches, while Christian said she throws five. Both declined to say exactly what they throw, however.

“We can’t tell you all the secrets,” Newton said.

The pair’s relationship began inauspiciously. Newton said she did not even know Christian during the latter’s freshman season.

Last year, they were tasked by coach Maggie Sharrer with being the team’s top pitchers. That circumstance brought them togeth-

FAST FACTS

Who: Logan Newton and Kailey Christian School: Lakewood Ranch High School Sport: Softball Favorite food: Newton — Chicken Parmesan; Christian — Macaroni and cheese and chicken tenders Favorite thing to watch: Newton — “The Little Mermaid”; Christian — “Grey’s Anatomy” Hobbies: Newton — Sewing and pottery; Christian — Playing the viola Dream vacation spot: Newton — London; Christian — Hawaii Nickname: Newton — Lo; Christian — Christian

er and created a bond.

“It was up to us (last year), so we helped each other out,” Christian said. “If one of us gave up a couple hits, we knew to calm each other down, because we can relate to that. Not all players can relate to a pitcher. Not everyone knows what to say. Talking to another pitcher definitely helps because they know what you’re going through.”

Newton concurred and said she always turns toward second base, Christian’s fielding position, after a poor pitch, “because I know I will see her, and we can shake it off together.”

It also helps to have a deep and powerful offense, in the rare event an opponent manages to score.

That offense includes Mississippi State University commit Kinsey Goelz, her sister and No. 3-ranked freshman in the country

by FloSoftball, Avery Goelz, and Louisiana State University commit Morgan Cummins. It also SEE PAGE 17

16

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

PROSE AND KOHN

RYAN KOHN

New Pirates quarterback makes his move

U

File photo

Bryan Gagg during his freshman season at Sarasota.

said. “The team chemistry is very strong, and I have been able to fit right in.”

Gagg said he will miss his friends and coaches at Sarasota High, but seemed to realize that in football terms this is a much better situation for him.

He pointed out the Pirates are returning a veteran offensive line led by center-guard Brendan Bengtsson, who earned a spot on FloridaHSFootball.com’s Class 7A All-State first team.

At Sarasota, Gagg was forced to run a lot, sometimes by design,

sometimes to save himself. At Braden River, he can focus on coming into his own.

For Pirates fans wondering what kind of quarterback they are getting, Gagg had an answer.

“They will be getting a player who wants to win at any cost,” Gagg said. “I will do whatever is necessary to help the team win.”

After back-to-back seasons of four and five wins, respectively, that perspective is easy to understand, especially for a player of Gagg’s caliber.

It’s important to note that the

starting gig will not be handed to Gagg. He will have to earn it on the field. That process starts during spring practice, which begins April 24. Gagg said he is confident in his abilities to win the job.

The Pirates’ starter will be the third quarterback for Braden River in three years. Last year’s starter, Louis Colosimo, was a transfer from IMG Academy, and went on to have a successful season, throwing for 21 touchdowns and just a single interception. Colosimo is signed to play college ball at Bryant University.

The year before, it was Jacob Huesman leading the offense.

Huesman led the team to a perfect regular season before falling to St. Thomas Aquinas in the state semifinal game. Huesman is now a quarterback at Appalachian State University.

Only time will tell if Gagg can follow in their footsteps.

“I just think this is going to be a great year,” Gagg said. “I think I fit in perfect. We all want to win.

I can’t wait to see it all together out on the field. It’s going to be a lot of fun.”

Ryan Kohn is a sports writer for the East County Observer. Contact him at rkohn@ yourobserver.com.

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The Pirates also return receiver Knowledge McDaniel and tight end Travis Tobey, who was effective in his freshman season.

I spoke with Gagg on March 19 as the quarterback was returning from a Rivals 3 Stripe camp in Orlando. Those camps are invitation only, and give top college recruits a chance to show off their skills. Gagg told me he had lots of friends who attended Braden River before the move, so the transition has been smooth.

“Everyone has treated me like I’ve been here for years,” Gagg

233437

sually March is a dead period for high school football news, with players focusing on individual position camps or playing different sports.

That has not been the case for Braden River High. The Pirates’ all-state defensive back Tyrone Collins tore his ACL a few weeks ago, putting his senior season at risk. It was a big blow to a defense that is losing stalwart defensive lineman Deqwunn McCobb and linebacker Noah Arce to graduation.

There is now more news for Pirates fans, but this time it is something they will be happy to hear.

Former Sarasota High quarterback Bryan Gagg will join the Pirates after moving to the Braden River school zone. The 6-foot-3 Gagg, who already has enrolled at Braden River, will be a junior when the Pirates start their season in the fall. He started for Sarasota’s varsity team as a freshman, and grew into a potent passer during his sophomore campaign, despite a Sailors roster that was young and did not possess enough talent to win consistently.

Gagg will not have that problem at Braden River, where he will hand off and throw to Deshaun Fenwick, who holds scholarship offers from the universities of Georgia, Mississippi and Missouri, among other top-division NCAA schools.

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

Sereena Feeney is a junior at The Outof-Door Academy. She is starring on the girls lacrosse team, but also plays on the Thunder girls basketball team.

Feeney won ODA’s girls lacrosse MVP award last season and has continued her strong play in 2017. She has scored three or more goals in a game four times so far this season.

How long have you played lacrosse?

I’ve been playing since seventh grade.

All my friends were doing it, and they said, “Oh, you should try this out,” so I joined. I made varsity, and I was a starter for most of the year. It was pretty cool.

Ryan Kohn

Kailey Christian picked up the win against Braden River.

FROM PAGE 15

includes Newton and Christian.

Newton, an outfielder when not on the mound, is hitting .714 with 15 RBI through 10 games, and second baseman Christian hit for a .318 average and five RBI. Newton and Christian shared glances and laughs while answering questions. They are noticeably relaxed. After one prolonged giggle, Christian said the team as a whole has fun.

Newton shared similar feelings.

“We’re excited for the end goal, definitely, but I think we’re just excited to be out here,” Newton said. “Sometimes when you get to this level, you

can forget we’re all just out here to play.”

The team’s personality was on display against Braden River. During the power outage, the Mustangs spontaneously broke into dance over a mix of modern hip-hop’s greatest hits. Fun and games aside, the Mustangs still have work to do if they want to reach the end goal, which is a state championship.

The program was knocked out in regional semifinals of the Class 8A tournament last year

by Countryside after finishing the regular season 16-2. The responsibility of carrying the team again falls on the arms of Newton and Christian.

“I love me having that responsibility, and I love her (Christian) being the one beside me with that same responsibility,” Newton said.

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What is your best skill on the field?

My speed. I like transitioning into fast breaks. I get a lot of my goals that way, definitely.

Why do you wear No. 14?

It was my mom’s (Kathleen Feeney) soccer number in high school and college.

the field, but I won MVP of our team last year at our banquet.

What is your favorite subject in school? Why? Psychology. I’m into forensic psychology. I’m into the idea of there being two sides to every story. Say someone committed a crime. I want to know what caused them to do what they did.

That is what I’m looking to do in the future.

What is your favorite TV show or movie?

My favorite TV show is ‘“Shameless,” and my favorite movie is “Lilo and Stitch.”

Where is your dream vacation destination?

I really want to go to the Turks and Caicos Islands. I have heard it’s really nice there.

What is the best piece of advice you have been given?

Work harder than your biggest competitor. Be better than your rivals. My mom tells me that all the time.

Finish this sentence: “Sereena Feeney is ... ” ... Dependable. I am always there for my friends and my family. I do not like to let them down.

What is your favorite lacrosse memory?

I do not know if I have one.

That is really bad, right?

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What is the appeal of lacrosse to you?

I just like having control most of the time. In basketball, some people are on really different levels, and I cannot really depend on them. In lacrosse, all of us work as a team and have really good chemistry. I also like the pace of the game.

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

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Sereena Feeney

17

THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

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Classifieds 30 Games 29 Real Estate 25 Weather 29

MARCH 23, 2017

YOUR NEIGHBORS

With the heart of Dixie C

hris Romine, president of the Lakewood Ranch Community Fund, glanced around at the more than 200 guests who attended the organization’s annual gala March 18, this time with a theme celebrating Dixieland Jazz.

“This is our fundraiser for the year,” said Romine while at the Lakewood Ranch Country Club.

“This event funds our grant cycle.”

Obviously, those who paid $175 a ticket, and bought auc-

tion items to help that grant process, had a wonderful time while doing it.

The highlight of the night was the presentation of the 2017 C. John A. Clarke Humanitarian of the Year Award to John Fain and Angela Massaro-Fain, co-owners of Grapevine Communications in Lakewood Ranch.

“This is a very special community,” John Fain said. “From the bottom of our souls, we appreciate this recognition.”

— JAY HEATER

Photos by Jay Heater

Daniel Tullidge, Amanda Tullidge, Julie Smith and Robert Smith are ready for a big night of entertainment.

Above: John Fain and Angela Massaro-Fain receive the 2017 C. John A. Clarke Humanitarian of the Year Award from Diane Brune, a past Community Fund president.

Left: Lakewood Ranch Country Club employee Angel Millne cuts a slice of prime rib at the gala.

Above: Sarasota’s Kathleen Homan and Kreg Hickman.

Right: Event chair Shari Phillips enjoys a moment with her husband, Doug, at the gala.

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YourObserver.com

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THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

19

Runners hit pavement for pooches L

Photos by Berkley Mason

Lakewood Ranch’s Jacob Martinez and Kim Balychev walk with their dog to finish the walkathon.

Ellenton’s Theo and Bree Weaber sit with their 1-year-old pup, Mosley, after their long walk.

Left: Odie loves the excitement of the Southeastern Guide Dogs Walkathon.

Above: Lily takes a breather after the Southeastern Guide Dogs Walkathon at Nathan Benderson Park.

akewood Ranch’s Jim Liddle was feeling a bit sentimental March 18 at the Southeastern Guide Dogs Walkathon at Nathan Benderson Park in Sarasota.

He missed one of his friends.

“I walked this morning in honor of our daughter’s (Becky Singer Hall) Boston terrier, Charlie,” Liddle said. “Charlie died at 14 years old.”

He managed to participate, though, because he said it was for a great cause.

The second annual event returned to Benderson Park with a 10K run, 5K run and a 3K walk.

About 120 runners and 400 walkers and their dogs gathered at the park to raise awareness and help support Southeastern Guide Dogs.

After the walkathon was a party that included a disc jockey, local vendors and some pet-friendly fun.

Top fundraisers for the event were Lakewood Ranch Puppy Raisers ($11,459), Team Liberty Port ($5,910) and the Bean Counters ($5,026) in the team division and Mary Scharf ($12,380), James Turner ($5,800) and Ruby Curtis ($3,472) in the individual division.

— BERKLEY MASON

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THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

COMMUNITY

pray for each pet brought to the church. The service will be held on the patio. This tradition is rooted in the love of creatures held by St. Francisi of Assisis.

For information, call 746-8890 or visit faithchurchucc.com.

FRIDAY, MARCH 24

BENEFIT LUNCHEON Begins at 11:30 a.m. at the Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club, 7650 Legacy Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. Come hear speakers and learn about new programs of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. A $45 ticket includes a $20 donation to the foundation. There will be a silent auction, as well as attendance prizes. For tickets or information, contact Sara Kasten at 618-304-4977. For tickets or to make donations, go to fightcf.cff.org.

CAKE DECORATING Runs from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the USF Culinary Innovation Lab, 8130 Lakewood Main St., Unit 104, Lakewood Ranch. Luxury cake designer and cookbook author Julie Deffense, co-owner of Julie Deffense Artistry Luxury Cake Design, will host a special workshop demonstrating ways to decorate cakes. Tickets cost $60 and include a glass of prosecco and a tasting plate of sweet tapas prepared by Deffense. To register, visit juliedeffense.com.

SATURDAY, MARCH 25

BEER BELLY 5K Starts at 9 a.m. at Lakewood Ranch Main Street. This event is a chip-timed craft beer fun run.

A finish-line party includes free food and craft beer for participants 21 years and older. Proceeds benefit Meals on Wheels Plus of Manatee. Cost is $42.

For information, visit facebook. com/beerbelly5kLWR.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 29

MEDIA COVERAGE Runs from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at the Manatee Chamber Lakewood Ranch office at the McClure Center, 4215 Concept Court,

TUESDAY, APRIL 4

NEW RESIDENT ORIENTATION Starts at 4 p.m. at Lakewood Ranch Town Hall, 8175 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. New residents of Lakewood Ranch are invited to learn about the community and its governance structure. There is no cost, but preregistration is requested. For information, call 907-0202.

Lakewood Ranch. The Manatee Chamber of Commerce will hold “How Can I Get My Business in the News” to help business owners understand if a story is newsworthy, how to contact reporters and write press releases. Cost is $30 for members; or $45 for nonmembers. Reservations are required to 748-4842, Ext. 123.

SATURDAY, APRIL 1

COMMUNITY YARD SALE Runs from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. throughout the Greenbrook, Summerfield and Riverwalk sections of Lakewood Ranch.

The Lakewood Ranch Garden Club will place signs for sales in various neighborhoods on March 31. Households participating in the sale need to register at Lakewood Ranch Town Hall and pay a $5 fee in advance. For information, contact Lori Walker at 727-7483 or loriwalker263@gmail.com.

WALK FOR WATER Begins at 8:30 a.m. at Harvest United Methodist Church, 14305 Covenant Way, Lakewood Ranch. The Rotary Club

Photo courtesy of Bill Wippert/NHLI

BEST BET FRIDAY, MARCH 24

WATCH PARTY Begins at 6 p.m. on Lakewood Main Street, Lakewood Ranch. Main Street will host a watch party for the Tampa Bay Lightning’s matchup against the Detroit Red Wings. The party starts at 6 p.m. and the puck drops at 7:30 p.m. There will be a corn hole tournament, live music and a disc jockey, sports activities and pregame and intermission entertainment. Mascots, including the Thunderbug and Cranky the Crane, also will be present. Proceeds benefit the Lakewood Ranch YMCA. For information, visit lakewoodranch. com.

of Lakewood Ranch will host this fundraiser to provide clean water for a village in Peru.

The walk is about 1 mile and symbolizes the journey many

YOUR NEW

Tyler Johnson and the Lightning take on the Red Wings March 24.

A watch party is being held on Lakewood Main Street.

families make each day to obtain clean drinking water. A $10 donation is recommended for individuals older than 8. For information, or to sponsor the event, call 870-0002 or email rotarylwr@gmail.com. Register or donate at lakewoodranchrotary.com.

COLOR VIBE 5K Begins at 9 a.m. at Premier Sports Campus, 5895 Post Blvd, Lakewood Ranch. At this 5K “fun run,” participants will be splashed head to toe in bright, safe bio-degradable chalk.

Proceeds benefit The Florida Center for Early Childhood.

Costs vary. For information, visit thecolorvibe.com.

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS Begins at 11 a.m. at Faith United Church of Christ, 4850 State Road 64 E., Bradenton. Pastor Brian Bagley-Bonner, of Faith United Church of Christ, will

FAVORITE PLACE

FRIDAY, APRIL 7

FASHION SHOW Starts at 11:30 a.m. at Polo Grill and Bar, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch. Foundation for Dreams will host this fundraising fashion show featuring designs by Lilly Pulitzer. Cost is $75. To register, visit foundationfordreams.org.

SATURDAY, APRIL 8

EGGSTRAVAGANZA Runs from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Greenbrook Adventure Park, 13400 Adventure Place, Lakewood Ranch. Lakewood Ranch Community Activities will host this longest running egg hunt in Lakewood Ranch. Children will chase after more than 12,000 eggs spread across a field. The field is separated by children’s ages. There also will be photos with the Easter Bunny, a petting zoo, face painting, music and more. The hunt is open to children ages 2 to 13. and begins promptly at 10:15 a.m. Registration costs $3 for children 2 and up and $5 for adults. Participants should be registered by April 5. For information or to register, visit lwrcac.com.

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PALM SUNDAY PICNIC Begins at 11:30 a.m. at Harvest United Methodist Church, 14305 Covenant Way, Lakewood Ranch. Harvest United Methodist welcomes the public for this event that includes a noon egg hunt, outdoor games, a bounce house and a picnic lunch. For information, call 907-7333.

SATURDAY, APRIL 15

MY HOMETOWN FEST Runs from noon to 5 p.m. at Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota. Food, fun, craft beer and live music from some of the area’s top bands will be the order of the day as Sertoma Club of Greater Sarasota hosts this fundraising event. Admission includes regional food specialties from more than 40 area restaurants; samples of more than 60 different craft beers from throughout the nation and live music including Reverend Barry & Funktastic Soul. Tickets cost $40 for adults, including food and craft beer samples, and $10 for food-only tickets for adults and children under 21. Children 6 and under are free. For information or tickets, visit MyHometownFest.org.

A SHORT DRIVE SATURDAY, MARCH 25

BOYS AND GIRLS ALL-STAR BASKETBALL GAMES Starts at 3:30 p.m. at Sarasota High School, 1000 S. School Ave., Sarasota. The secondannual All-Star games will benefit the Kyle Jutras Scholarship Foundation. East County athletes playing in the games include Lakewood Ranch’s Sam Hester, Justin Muscara, Devin Twenty, Shauntavia Green and Aleah Robinson; Braden River’s Deoni Cason, Curtis Cobb and

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TUESDAY, MARCH 28

PRESENTATION ON WORLD WAR II Begins at 7 p.m. at Bradenton Christian School’s Wichers Auditorium, 3304 43rd St. W., Bradenton. Former Braden Christian School Principal Clyde Rinsema will give a presentation through the eyes of his father, Sgt. George Rinsema, who served as a U.S. Army tank commander. The presentation will include photos, videos, anecdotes and quotes from letters sent home during combat.

Admission is free. For more information, contact Jennifer Calhoun at 792-5454, Ext. 125 or via email at jcalhoun@bcspanthers.org.

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SATURDAY, APRIL 1

ITTY BITTY KITTY SHOWER Runs from 10:30 a.m. to noon at 2415 14th St. W., Bradenton.

The Humane Society of Manatee County will host this event to generate support and supplies for the upcoming kitten season. The Humane Society expects almost 300 kittens this season and seeks donations of kitten food and formula, heating pads, blankets, towels, food scales, toys, litter pans and other items. The event includes kittens, games, foster signup opportunities and more.

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BLUES BY THE BAY Runs from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at The Powel Crosley Estate, 8374 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. The Manatee Chamber of Commerce and The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce will host this event featuring live entertainment by Doug Deming & The Jewel Tones, samplings from local chamber-member restaurants and networking.

Tickets can be purchased at the door for $35. For information or to register, visit manateechamber.com/blues.

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Bailee Steury; and The Out-ofDoor Academy’s Nate Patrick.

Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for students and free for children ages 6 and under. For more information, contact Rob Jutras at 809-7040.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

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22

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

Preschool bids to raise funds

E

ast County’s Mike Murphy had to stay focused March 14 during the live auction part of Pasta with a Purpose during the All God’s Children Preschool event at the Living Lord Lutheran Church in Lakewood Ranch.

His son, 5-year-old Austyn, was eager to raise his hands as the bids escalated.

“I was holding his hand

down,” Mike Murphy said with a chuckle. “He was going a little crazy.”

The Pasta with a Purpose fundraiser featured a pasta dinner, silent and live auctions and children’s activities.

All God’s Children Director Jeri Mullen said proceeds from the event pay for expenses such as teacher training and materials for the playground.

— PAM EUBANKS

Photos by Pam Eubanks

Above: Izzy Olarsch checks out his face paint.

Right: Kristin and Aaron West, of Ellenton, brought their children, Charlotte, Hudson and Everett (not pictured).

Suzy Kalin, of Childlike Productions, paints a Batman symbol on the face of Hudson West, 9.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

23

Time to lead Lakewood Ranch junior begins her run as the state president of a leadership organization.

BERKLEY MASON STAFF WRITER

Credit the babysitter.

Lakewood Ranch High School junior Taylor Trevithick took over duties this month as state president of the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America organization.

While Trevithick rose to the state’s top position by the work she has done at Lakewood Ranch High, her inspiration came from her childhood babysitter, Jessica Hagood, a Lakewood Ranch High School graduate and a former member of FCCLA. Hagood was involved in FCCLA when Trevithick was little, and she encouraged Trevithick to join the organization when she was old enough. FCCLA has 205,000 members in 6,500 chapters in the United States that focus on teen pregnancy, parenting, family relationships, substance abuse, peer pressure and career exploration.

“Jessica was state president and then became a national officer for FCCLA at one point,” Trevithick said. “One time she took me to meet Elaine Bowling (FCCLA’s state adviser) at Lakewood Ranch High, but as a little kid I had no idea how important Jessica was to the club.”

Trevithick, 16, won the election for state president a year ago and since has been preparing herself for the position.

“It was incredibly daunting,” Trevithick said of the election.

“Everything was a blur. It felt unreal.”

Trevithick had been shadowing the previous president of FCCLA, Armwood High School’s Keyshawna Johnson of Seffner, hoping to gain a better understanding of the responsibility she would inherit.

“I definitely feel more prepared having shadowed her,” Trevithick said. “I was able to see exactly what I will have to do while I’m president. As a regular member, you are unaware of what goes on behind the scenes. You are unaware that the state executive council meets multiple times a year at different parts of the state.

It was good that I got to attend those trips before I took office.”

Trevithick takes the community leaders part of her organization to heart. In addition to FCCLA, she is involved in the Spanish Club, Lakewood Leaders, Dude Be Nice, Mini Mustangs Pre-K and the National Honors Society.

She is a Spanish tutor and editor of the school newspaper.

Trying to be a leader did not come naturally to her.

“I was a really shy freshman,” Trevithick said. “I thought I had a backbone, but I really didn’t.”

Trevithick credits much of her personal growth to her steady involvement in FCCLA. “Through my experience in the club, I have been able to come into

Berkley Mason

Lakewood Ranch High junior Taylor Trevithick has taken over as the state president of the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America organization.

“I was really a shy freshman. I thought I had a backbone, but I really didn’t.”

— Lakewood Ranch High junior Taylor Trevithick

my own and better understand what it means to really care about something that you love,” Trevithick said.

While Trevithick has learned more about herself, she has also

discovered skills. She has been competing in food innovation competitions at the FCCLA state and national conventions.

“I have had to create a food product relating to a certain

theme or challenge,” she said.

“The whole point is to market what you’ve created.”

She has become more involved than she thought was possible.

“I’m truly thankful for the experience that FCCLA has provided, and every memory, person and place I have been able to travel to along the way,” she said.

“The club has truly allowed me to become the person that I am today, and for that I am so grateful.”

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24

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

LO C A L LY K N OW N . G LO B A L LY CO N N E C T E D.

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 7041 Portmarnock Place Laura Navratil 941-806-7436 A4172315 $1,365,000

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 13218 Lost Key Place John Camino, PA 941-685-5060 A4174311 $1,295,000

PA L M E T TO 812 Riviera Dunes Way Debbie Vogler 941-705-3328 A4124509 $1,175,000

B R A D E N TO N 5107 Riverview Boulevard Cheryl Roberts 941-266-1450 A4166072 $940,000

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 14919 Camargo Place Rudy Dudon 941-234-3991 A4160149 $924,000

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 13511 Matanzas Place Tina Ciaccio 941-685-8420 A4178659 $899,000

B R A D E N TO N 322 Compass Point Drive 201 Kathy Valente 941-685-6767 A4176481 $750,000

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 14911 Castle Park Terrace Christine Mazur 941-374-4015 A4173720 $625,000

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 7630 Tralee Way Nicole Ryskamp 941-807-1766 A4176602 $585,000

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 7149 Whitemarsh Circle Marcia Frost 941-812-8493 A4179786 $529,000

B R A D E N TO N 1015 Spring Lakes Boulevard Leah Secondo 941-545-4430 A4177978 $520,000

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 12314 Greenbrier Way David D'Angelo 941-587-7268 A4162338 $519,000

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 10310 Baltusrol Place Marcia Frost 941-812-8493 A4180865 $500,000

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 12231 Thornhill Court Deborah Angelo O'Mara 941-730-0777 A4177536 $479,000

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 6627 Pirate Perch Trail Diane Fogo Harter 941-445-2431 A4178651 $475,000

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 7101 Whitemarsh Circle Sylvia Zimmerman 941-350-5022 A4166473 $435,000

B R A D E N TO N 5715 Inspiration Terrace Patty Brooks 941-545-1194 A4174808 $420,000

B R A D E N TO N 3748 Summerwind Circle Mugsie Quinlan 941-350-2833 A4172222 $394,500

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 6417 Fox Grape Lane Bryan Dwyer 941-809-9106 A4180422 $349,000

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 12719 Nightshade Place Stacy Hanan 941-266-0529 A4172854 $329,000

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 15326 Searobbin Drive Carol Aviles 941-356-6777 A4156633 $305,000

PA R R I S H 10212 41st Court E Natalie Alfaro 941-773-4903 A4180154 $274,900

PA R R I S H 9204 64th Court E Debbie Vogler 941-705-3328 A4180080 $259,900

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 8227 Miramar Way Diane Fogo Harter 941-445-2431 A4172472 $239,500

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 8139 Miramar Way 103 Maria Beck PA 941-356-0063 A4179549 $235,000

PA L M E T TO 5707 Spanish Point Court Joe Foster 941-812-7634 A4177107 $219,000

PA L M E T TO 6924 Bayshore Road Erica Thomas 941-799-9365 A4179286 $169,900

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 16315 Clearlake Avenue Drew Russell 941-993-3739 A4164194 $2,199,900

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 8317 Catamaran Circle Barbara Najmy 941-705-1158 A4171529 $1,749,000

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L A K E WO O D R A N C H 7216 Pasadena Glen Deborah Angelo O'Mara 941-730-0777 A4156467 $2,295,000

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 12510 Highfield Circle James Hope 941-704-4623 A4167622 $1,749,000

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

RESEARCH EDITOR

A

home in Grosvenor Gardens topped all transactions in this week’s real estate.

Edward and Sandra Prodehl, of Burr Ridge, Ill., sold their home at 8334 Grosvenor Court to Clarence Blanton and Karen Vereb, of Bradenton, for $1.36 million. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, four-anda-half baths, a pool and 4,991 square feet of living area.

Freddie and Maureen Williamson, of Bradenton, sold their home at 7833 Valderrama Way to Brian Keane and Judy Keane, trustees, of Lakewood Ranch, for $557,000. Built in 2010, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,329 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $449,000 in 2012.

RIVER WIND

Michael Deninno and Lee Quillen, trustees, sold the home at 951 River Wind Circle to Richard and Nichole Williamson, of Bradenton, for $555,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,449 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $518,700 in 2015.

PRESERVE AT PANTHER RIDGE

Todd Boese, trustee, of Lakewood Ranch, sold the home at 22466 Panther Loop to Lee Duis, of Bradenton, for $530,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,136 square feet of living area.

RIVER CLUB SOUTH

COUNTRY CLUB VILLAGE

Gordon Fitzsimmons, trustee, and Tommy Ann Fitzsimmons, of Lakewood Ranch, sold the home at 7339 Greystone St., to Jason and Tracy Cotterill, of Lakewood Ranch, for $850,000.

Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 4,304 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $925,000 in 2014.

COUNTRY CLUB EAST

Patricia and James Marchini, of Bradenton, sold their home at 15410 Leven Links Place to Paul Duggan, of E. Amherst, N.Y., for $640,000. Built in 2012, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,558 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $503,600 in 2012.

Robert and Donna Anderson, trustees, of Bradenton, sold the home at 10022 Cherry Hills Ave. Circle to Sy and Cecelia Inwentarz, of Bradenton, for $515,000.

Built in 2001, it has three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,701 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $405,000 in 2011.

Place to John and Terry Klopstad, of University Park, for $402,000. Built in 2012, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,934 square feet of living area.

It previously sold for $318,500 in 2012.

CENTRAL PARK

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

MARCH 6 - MARCH 10

DEL WEBB

Pulte Homes Co. LLC sold the home at 17118 Seaford Way to Robert and Judith Dunsmore, of Lakewood Ranch, for $370,200.

Built in 2016, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,828 square feet of living area.

Robert and Judith Dunsmore, of Bradenton, sold their home at 4702 Claremont Park Drive to Justin Bracco and Christy VolpeBracco, of Staten Island, N.Y., for $382,000. Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,202 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $355,700 in 2013.

CROSSING CREEK VILLAGE

Gary and Joan Jones sold their home at 12417 Tranquility Park Terrace to William and Nicole Schorn, of Bradenton, for $327,500. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, two-and-ahalf baths and 2,130 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $325,900 in 2014.

MOTE RANCH VILLAGE

CYPRESS CREEK ESTATES

Michelle Scott, of Sarasota, sold her home at 6187 Ninth Ave. Circle N.E., to Leigh and Tina Wacenske, of Bradenton, for $380,000. Built in 1987, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,155 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $185,000 in 2009.

Andrew and Haley Christman, of Bradenton, sold their home at 4809 69th St. E., to Jared Winch and Debra Kirkey-Winch, of Bradenton, for $370,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,581 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $330,800 in 2014.

Jeffrey York, trustee, of Orlando, sold the home at 6808 Corral Circle to Vincent and Karen Tassitano, of Sarasota, for $365,000.

Built in 1989, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,197 square feet of living area.

It previously sold for $228,000 in 2012.

MAGNOLIA WOODS

George McMahon III, of Lakeland, sold his home at 1503 60th St. E., to Kenneth and Kristina Alflen, of Bradenton, for $355,100. Built in 2002, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,966 square feet of living area.

SEE REAL ESTATE PAGE 26

BRIDGEWATER AT LAKEWOOD RANCH

Lennar Homes LLC sold the home at 13320 Swiftwater Way to Jay and Beth Vandroff, of Lakewood Ranch, for $430,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,182 square feet of living area.

LO C A L LY K N OW N . G LO B A L LY C O N N E C T E D.

Deborah Angelo O’Mara

8325 Lakewood Ranch Blvd • Lakewood Ranch • 941.730.0777

Thomas and Susan Prieve sold their home at 8049 Rio Bella

Deborah has consistently set the pace as the #1 Top Producer for the past 6 years at the Lakewood Ranch Office of Michael Saunders & Company consisting of 80 Realtors. Representing the finest properties, Deborah has sold over 500 homes in Lakewood Ranch.

She is the consummate professional who is dedicated, knowledgeable and focused on the needs of her clients. In addition to her refined negotiating skills and high energy, Deborah is passionate about delivering impeccable service to her clients. For this, she is thankful to have been awarded the Best in Client Satisfaction Award by Sarasota Magazine for 6 consecutive years. See me in action at www.DebsVideo.com.

These are the largest building permits issued by the Manatee County Planning and Zoning Department for the week of March 6 through 10, in order of dollar amounts.

E AST CO U N T Y Address

Permit

Applicant

6819 24th Ave. E.

Pool

Ernest Marshall

$ 50,672

19415 Beacon Park Place

Pool

Robert Petril

$ 49,003

12709 Deep Blue Place

Pool

Vincent Bruno

$ 47,239

5505 47th Court E.

Pool

Emelina Torres

$ 38,000

Amount

319 41st St. N.E.

Dock/seawall

Patrick Martin

$ 34,959

11027 Hyacinth Place

Pool

William Sorbie

$ 30,000

6952 Stetson St. Circle

Reroof

Cynthia Borck

$ 28,300

6709 Oakmont Way

Reroof

Terence Sullivan

$ 27,000

5515 83rd Terrace E.

Door/windows

Uwe Kehlenbeck

$ 23,500

13503 Montclair Place

Alterations

Ronald Croce

$ 20,585

4913 Kilty Court E.

Door/windows

Charles Nobs

6915 84th St. Court E.

Reroof

Christine Patneaude

6420 98th St. E.

Reroof

W. Travis Cundiff

$ 17,500

6709 Medinah Court

Reroof

James Nestle

$ 17,300

16627 Second Ave. E.

Pool cage

Razvan Enoiu

$ 17,000

11123 Pine Lilly Place

Reroof

Marsha Tenret

$ 16,334

932 Springwood Circle

Pool cage

Melanie Correll

$ 15,900

6718 Pleasant Hill Road

Reroof

John Duffy

$ 15,500

16623 Second Ave. E.

Pool cage

Brent Holweger

$ 14,900

10442 Old Grove Circle

Reroof

Jimmie Simpson

$ 14,400

$ 18,772 $ 18,000

Source: Manatee County

2015 LUXURY SPECIALIST

Knowledge. Experience. Trust.

RIVA TRACE

TOP BUILDING PERMITS

25

WAT E R L E F E G O L F & R I V E R C L U B 10410 Riverbank Terrace A4130995 $969,000

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 7072 Twin Hills Terrace A4140088 $589,000

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 11712 Strandhill Court A4174092 $525,000

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 7623 Portstewart A4157403 $499,900

234918

ADAM HUGHES

THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

REAL ESTATE

Grosvenor Gardens home tops sales at $1.36 million

|

Licensed Real Estate Broker

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

Real estate

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

RIVERWALK VILLAGE

FROM PAGE 25

ESPLANADE

Jo Ann O’Connor, trustee, sold the home at 13116 Torresina Terrace to J. Gregory and Roberta Hetrick, of Bradenton, for $348,000. Built in 2012, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,684 square feet of living area.

It previously sold for $351,000 in 2016.

MILL CREEK

Ali Aoudi and Nibal Husseini, of Bradenton, sold their home at 13816 18th Place E., to Jonathan and Jennifer Pratt, of Bradenton, for $345,000. Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,549 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $300,000 in 2004.

CHAPARRAL

Jurgen Dejewski, of Bradenton, sold the home at 6023 Chaparral Ave., to Mary and Craig Brewer, of Sarasota, for $334,900. Built in 2000, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,045 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $143,000 in 2006.

TAILFEATHER WAY AT TARA

Sandra Kersell, trustee, of Haddam, Conn., sold the home at 6618 Pinefeather Court to Gary Bryan and Michelle LynetteGensemer Bryan, of Bradenton, for $330,000. Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,181 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $338,000 in 2014.

Michael and Karen Vaadi, of Palmetto, sold their home at 7311 Arrowhead Run to Carmen and James Collins, of Lakewood Ranch, for $325,000. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,993 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $199,300 in 2001.

ROSEDALE GOLF AND TENNIS CLUB

George and Paula Silvi, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their home at 8614 53rd Place E., to David and Christine MacLeod, of Buffalo, N.Y., for $320,000. Built in 2001, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,631 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $278,000 in 2015.

baths and 1,710 square feet of living area.

Vincent and Victoria D’Amelio, trustees, of Newark, Calif., sold the home at 6408 Orchard Oriole Lane to Lloyd and Nilsa Leiva, of Bradenton, for $230,000. Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,410 square feet of living area.

It previously sold for $190,000 in 2004.

TARA

Richard and Marcia Leffert sold their home at 6225 Cormorant Court to Yunok Lee and Donald Lee, of Bradenton, for $315,000.

Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,312 square feet of living area.

Carol Kopelman and Bernard Ehrlich, of Sarasota, sold their home at 4907 Lakescene Place to Richard Lomax and Lea McGee, of Sarasota, for $316,000. Built in 2001, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,793 square feet of living area.

Silvano and Sherry Ann Iaboni, of Nova Scotia, Canada, sold their home at 7427 Birds Eye Terrace to Barbara Maturo and Rocco Maturo, of Bradenton, for $255,000. Built in 2005, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,814 square feet of living area.

It previously sold for $224,500 in 2013.

GREENBROOK VILLAGE

MOTE RANCH

AVALON AT THE VILLAGES OF PALM AIRE

Alexander and Heather Zagrodnik sold their home at 6332 Golden Eye Glen to Kenneth and Nafelli Nichols, of Lakewood Ranch, for $315,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,081 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $205,000 in 2012.

Jason and Carrie Riley, of Bradenton, sold their home at 6488 Blue Grosbeak Circle to Todd Boese, trustee, of Lakewood Ranch, for $262,000. Built in 2003, it has two bedrooms, two

John and Cynthia Hawkins, of Naples, sold their home at 7015 Goldrush Lane to Vicki and James Hunsberger, of Bradenton, for $310,000. Built in 2001, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,162 square feet of living area.

It previously sold for $405,000 in 2005.

COACH HOMES AT RIVER STRAND

Ramiro and Gloria Velasco, of Ruskin, sold their Unit 4703 condominium at 323 Winding Brooks Lane to William Decker

and Susan Boyer, of Bradenton, for $290,000. Built in 2009, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,108 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $287,500 in 2014.

Hammock Drive to Robert and Gail Dietz, of Bradenton, for $212,500. Built in 2012, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,561 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $186,200 in 2012.

COUNTRY OAKS

Harold Jones Jr., of Lakewood Ranch, sold his Unit 2223 condominium at 6807 Grand Estuary Trail to John and Joanne Letwinetz, of Alberta, Canada, for $210,000. Built in 2015, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,561 square feet of living area.

It previously sold for $210,000 in 2015.

SABAL HARBOUR

Kyle and Nicole Goneau, of Bradenton, sold their home at 4593 Runabout Way to Ronald and Patricia Baranek, of Sarasota, for $261,400. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,665 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $285,000 in 2007.

Scott and Janis Ellsworth, of Bradenton, sold their Unit 2515 condominium at 6611 Grand Estuary Trail to William and Elizabeth Kollada, of Fargo, N.D., for $203,000. Built in 2016, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,561 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $192,000 in 2016.

PINEHURST VILLAGE

BRADEN RIVER LAKES

Aaron Key, of Nort Port, sold his home at 8317 Cypress Lake Drive to Justin Geminn and Adrienne Seabloom, of Sarasota, for $278,000. Built in 1985, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,536 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $123,000 in 2011.

David Rieck, of Jensen Beach, Michael Rieck, of Des Moines, Iowa, Kathleen Porter, of Neptune Beach, Susan Baldwin, of Sarasota, Christopher Rieck, of Fairfield, Conn., James Rieck, Los Angeles, Stephen Rieck, of Roswell, Ga., and Thomas Rieck, of Marietta, Ga., sold their Unit 214 condominium at 4908 Linsey Court to Gregory and Vivian Caputo, of Sarasota, for $250,000. Built in 1994, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,660 square feet of living area.

Marguerite Reeder, of Pinellas Park, sold her home at 4407 14th Ave. E., to Derek Cromwell, of Frederick, Md., for $207,500. Built in 1992, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,603 square feet of living area.

It previously sold for $168,500 in 2008.

ONLINE

VERANDA AT RIVER STRAND

See more transactions at YourObserver.com

Deborah Haufler, trustee, of Bonita Springs, sold the Unit 924 condominium at 7149 River

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Esplanade—3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths, 2594 sq. ft., Private Courtyard Entry, Spacious Lanai, Resort Amenities, Maintenance-Free. $546,700

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235187

26

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

27

Patty Wagstaff

Players Centre finds the right match

Champion Aerobatic Pilot

Lakewood Ranch’s Lou Marinaccio hosts a party for Players Centre donors at the Sarasota Polo Club.

Free yourself from the clouds of cataracts

JAY HEATER MANAGING EDITOR

Jay Heater

Lakewood Ranch’s Lou Marinaccio has been helping The Players’ Michelle BianchiPingel make new contacts for the theater’s move to Lakewood Ranch.

possible in the Lakewood Ranch area. That means attending just about every special event.

On Saturday night, Kin and Bianchi-Pingel were at the Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation Gala. On Sunday, they attended their first polo match.

“I’ve been here many times for cancer benefits,” Kin said of the Sarasota Polo Club. “But this is my first polo match.”

Kin said while it has been hard work to find sponsors, he is optimistic. “We’re not even a year into this move — that we announced May 2 — and it is astounding how much work we’ve gotten done.

But we need to tell as many people as possible who we are going to be, and that’s why I always have bags under my eyes these days.”

5,000 feet in the air is no place to question your eyesight.

When national aerobatic champion pilot Patty Wagstaff was diagnosed with cataracts, she sought the care of William Lahners, M.D., at Center For Sight. Wagstaff chose lens replacement that gave her clear, 20/20 vision without glasses! Now the only clouds she sees are the ones she’s soaring through.

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Jeffery Kin, the artistic director of The Players Centre for Performing Arts, had never seen a polo match.

But Kin probably would admit the world of theater can take a person in a new direction.

The direction on March 19 took Kin to the Sarasota Polo Club, where Lou Marinaccio was hosting Players Centre donors and sponsors, along with other friends, in a special gathering with polo as the main feature.

Marinaccio has been trying to help The Players in its move from its theater in Sarasota to a new location as the anchor of the new Waterside Place, the downtown area of the Waterside at Lakewood Ranch development. A $30 million complex is planned.

Marinaccio’s role has been trying to introduce the theater to prospective sponsors and donors in Lakewood Ranch.

Kin, meanwhile, has been spending many of his days, along with The Players Managing Director Michelle Bianchi-Pingel, meeting as many people as

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Part speedster, and prankster, he’s a Labrador retriever that combines unstoppable energy with I’m ready when you are enthusiasm. But in just two years he’ll become freedom, confidence and independence for someone who could really use it.

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U PICK OR WE PICK Then Enjoy Lunch at our Cafe!

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

THURSDAY, MARCH 23 High: 83 Low: 62 Chance of rain: 50%

FRIDAY, MARCH 24 High: 81 Low: 60 Chance of rain: 10%

SUNRISE / SUNSET

High: 82 Low: 61 Chance of rain: 10%

Thursday, March 23

7:31a

7:43p

Friday, March 24

7:30a

7:43p

Saturday, March 25

7:29a

7:44p

Sunday, March 26

7:28a

7:44p

Monday, March 27

7:27a

7:45p

Tuesday, March 28

7:35a

7:45p

Wednesday, March 29 7:34a

7:46p

March 27 New

April 3 First

April 10 Full

April 19 Last

RAINFALL

SUNDAY, MARCH 26

ONLINE

Sunrise Sunset

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, MARCH 25

High: 81 Low: 61 Chance of rain: 10%

Jeannie Sparks captured this photo of a male anhinga by a marsh pond in Lakewood Ranch.

29

THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

WEATHER

FORECAST

|

Submit your photos at YourObserver.com/weather

and facebook.com/ObserverGroup

Monday, March 13

0.00

Tuesday, March 14

0.00

Wednesday, March 15

0.00

Thursday, March 16

0.00

Friday, March 17

0.00

Saturday, March 18

0.00

Sunday, March 19

0.00

YEAR TO DATE:

MONTH TO DATE:

2017 2.49 in.

2017 0.00 in.

2016

2016 0.50 in.

6.15 in.

a reflection of nature’s beauty Your One Stop Home Improvement Specialist. Family Owned and Operated for over 35 Years.

4551 N. Washington Blvd.,Sarasota • 941.355.8437 | 2510 1st Street W., Bradenton • 941.748.4679 | 1734 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice • 941.493.7441

98 Pharmacist’s mashing tool 101 Success advice from the wise (Part 3) 108 Not rural 109 Ruler of the past 110 Vote into office 111 “___ on Down the Road” 112 Little brooks 113 Devours 114 Adjust shoelaces 115 Work out in a boxing ring 116 Opposite side, in war 117 Song performed by two 118 Passover meal 119 It can cause painful blinking

DOWN

©2017 Universal Uclick

ACROSS

1 Front door welcomers 5 Archaeologists’ finds 10 Indian tribe of Arizona 14 Monastery head 19 “___ Rhythm” 20 Right on the button 21 Mary Kay competitor 22 Creature known for laziness 23 “Queen ___ Day” (old game show) 24 Prefix meaning four 25 Animal parks 26 Poetry division 27 Success advice from the wise (Part 1)

31 Bachelor’s or master’s 32 Manor VIP 33 Type of wolf or star 34 Finishes completely 35 Thing one can do to one’s loins 36 Data transfer rate unit 37 Relaxation station with mud baths 40 County agricultural exhibitions 43 “___ Tread on Me” 44 Queen’s mate 45 Negative answers 46 Flock member 47 In every way 52 Period of history

53 Some relatives 54 X-ray dosage units 55 Stable animal?

56 Cadbury treat 57 A single unit 58 “... to ___ and to hold” 59 Sec’s big brother 60 Success advice from the wise (Part 2) 69 Some movie ratings 70 Crosby or MacDonald 71 Wife of Lennon 72 Before, of old poetry 73 Monetary unit of India 76 Dove sounds 77 Ablaze 80 Bother persistently with

trivial complaints 81 Feature of the very strong 85 “Land of the free” 86 Animal fur 87 Exhalation of relief 88 Word with history or hygiene 89 Artist’s stand 91 Another flock member 92 Gauge on a dash 93 Numbskull 94 Jacket fastener, sometimes 96 ___ up (become energized) 97 Herringlike fish

1 Offend slightly 2 “___ man is hard to find” 3 Longtime Yankees manager Joe 4 Arrange alternately 5 Placed wagers 6 Some daisies 7 Defense grp. based in Brussels 8 Cream shade 9 Some mimicking birds 10 Source of danger 11 Eggplant shape 12 Game that begins with a break 13 Things that reduce the transmission of heat or sound 14 Begin mountaineering 15 Nonchalantly unconcerned 16 Quite gaunt 17 Sgt. Snorkel’s pooch 18 $1,000, in slang 28 ___ & Young (accounting firm) 29 Sally of comic strips 30 Far from smooth 35 Joint malady 36 Auction participant 37 Far from sweet 38 Wooden hat “hangers” 39 Tennis legend Arthur 40 Lets loose 41 Pirate’s cry, in stereo-

types 42 Insect stage 43 Ameche or Larsen 44 Roguish guy 45 Opposite of everybody 48 They provide applause 49 One with big regrets 50 Qatar resident 51 Huge horned animal 57 Olympian gymnast Korbut and namesakes 58 “That’s an interesting thought ...”

59 French Impressionist 61 Underdog’s victory 62 “Stop already!”

63 Freeloader 64 “While” lead-in of old 65 Spelling of TV and film 66 First name in women’s tennis 67 Clear the chalkboard 68 Fit for a 44-Across 73 It may need a fitting 74 Turn over ___ leaf 75 Not currently working 76 Played a certain British sport 77 Some dictionary editors 78 Italian automaker 79 Sick 82 Industry bigwigs 83 Resident Hawkeye 84 Baking riser 90 Appropriateness or relevance 92 Tiny 93 Parchment?

94 Coined money 95 Tidier 96 One of 150 in the Bible 97 Glide on ice 99 Was a bounder?

100 Writing class assignment 101 Heal 102 Land o’ blarney 103 With the ability 104 Son of Isaac 105 School club for singers 106 Like some very old generals (Abbr.)

107 Dried up and withered

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.

“S VSPZ RCSN VSWZ ... DIR S PFKL GKI HKF’R XZR RCZ NLZZR JTMR LSRCKIR RCZ DSRRZM.” – CKVVG FZTM “B TMMX BH DAC YBIIMI, B TMMX FD DAC CHCYR ... B KAMPTW AFZC VMPNAD YRKCTS F YBIIMI F TMHN DBYC FNM.”

– WFIIRT KDIFJVCIIR

Puzzle Two Clue: S equals F

STAY STRONG by Timothy B. Parker

Puzzle One Clue: J equals P

CROSSWORD

229077

www.manasotaonline.com

©2017 NEA, Inc.

SUDOKU

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

©2017 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

3-23-17

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

THURSDAY, MARCH 23 High: 83 Low: 62 Chance of rain: 50%

FRIDAY, MARCH 24 High: 81 Low: 60 Chance of rain: 10%

SUNRISE / SUNSET

High: 82 Low: 61 Chance of rain: 10%

Thursday, March 23

7:31a

7:43p

Friday, March 24

7:30a

7:43p

Saturday, March 25

7:29a

7:44p

Sunday, March 26

7:28a

7:44p

Monday, March 27

7:27a

7:45p

Tuesday, March 28

7:25a

7:45p

Wednesday, March 29 7:24a

7:46p

March 27 New

April 3 First

April 10 Full

April 19 Last

RAINFALL

SUNDAY, MARCH 26

ONLINE

Sunrise Sunset

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, MARCH 25

High: 81 Low: 61 Chance of rain: 10%

Jeannie Sparks captured this photo of a male anhinga by a marsh pond in Lakewood Ranch.

29

THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

WEATHER

FORECAST

|

Submit your photos at YourObserver.com/weather

and facebook.com/ObserverGroup

Monday, March 13

0.00

Tuesday, March 14

0.00

Wednesday, March 15

0.00

Thursday, March 16

0.00

Friday, March 17

0.00

Saturday, March 18

0.00

Sunday, March 19

0.00

YEAR TO DATE:

MONTH TO DATE:

2017 2.49 in.

2017 0.00 in.

2016

2016 0.50 in.

6.15 in.

a reflection of nature’s beauty Your One Stop Home Improvement Specialist. Family Owned and Operated for over 35 Years.

4551 N. Washington Blvd.,Sarasota • 941.355.8437 | 2510 1st Street W., Bradenton • 941.748.4679 | 1734 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice • 941.493.7441

98 Pharmacist’s mashing tool 101 Success advice from the wise (Part 3) 108 Not rural 109 Ruler of the past 110 Vote into office 111 “___ on Down the Road” 112 Little brooks 113 Devours 114 Adjust shoelaces 115 Work out in a boxing ring 116 Opposite side, in war 117 Song performed by two 118 Passover meal 119 It can cause painful blinking

DOWN

©2017 Universal Uclick

ACROSS

1 Front door welcomers 5 Archaeologists’ finds 10 Indian tribe of Arizona 14 Monastery head 19 “___ Rhythm” 20 Right on the button 21 Mary Kay competitor 22 Creature known for laziness 23 “Queen ___ Day” (old game show) 24 Prefix meaning four 25 Animal parks 26 Poetry division 27 Success advice from the wise (Part 1)

31 Bachelor’s or master’s 32 Manor VIP 33 Type of wolf or star 34 Finishes completely 35 Thing one can do to one’s loins 36 Data transfer rate unit 37 Relaxation station with mud baths 40 County agricultural exhibitions 43 “___ Tread on Me” 44 Queen’s mate 45 Negative answers 46 Flock member 47 In every way 52 Period of history

53 Some relatives 54 X-ray dosage units 55 Stable animal?

56 Cadbury treat 57 A single unit 58 “... to ___ and to hold” 59 Sec’s big brother 60 Success advice from the wise (Part 2) 69 Some movie ratings 70 Crosby or MacDonald 71 Wife of Lennon 72 Before, of old poetry 73 Monetary unit of India 76 Dove sounds 77 Ablaze 80 Bother persistently with

trivial complaints 81 Feature of the very strong 85 “Land of the free” 86 Animal fur 87 Exhalation of relief 88 Word with history or hygiene 89 Artist’s stand 91 Another flock member 92 Gauge on a dash 93 Numbskull 94 Jacket fastener, sometimes 96 ___ up (become energized) 97 Herringlike fish

1 Offend slightly 2 “___ man is hard to find” 3 Longtime Yankees manager Joe 4 Arrange alternately 5 Placed wagers 6 Some daisies 7 Defense grp. based in Brussels 8 Cream shade 9 Some mimicking birds 10 Source of danger 11 Eggplant shape 12 Game that begins with a break 13 Things that reduce the transmission of heat or sound 14 Begin mountaineering 15 Nonchalantly unconcerned 16 Quite gaunt 17 Sgt. Snorkel’s pooch 18 $1,000, in slang 28 ___ & Young (accounting firm) 29 Sally of comic strips 30 Far from smooth 35 Joint malady 36 Auction participant 37 Far from sweet 38 Wooden hat “hangers” 39 Tennis legend Arthur 40 Lets loose 41 Pirate’s cry, in stereo-

types 42 Insect stage 43 Ameche or Larsen 44 Roguish guy 45 Opposite of everybody 48 They provide applause 49 One with big regrets 50 Qatar resident 51 Huge horned animal 57 Olympian gymnast Korbut and namesakes 58 “That’s an interesting thought ...”

59 French Impressionist 61 Underdog’s victory 62 “Stop already!”

63 Freeloader 64 “While” lead-in of old 65 Spelling of TV and film 66 First name in women’s tennis 67 Clear the chalkboard 68 Fit for a 44-Across 73 It may need a fitting 74 Turn over ___ leaf 75 Not currently working 76 Played a certain British sport 77 Some dictionary editors 78 Italian automaker 79 Sick 82 Industry bigwigs 83 Resident Hawkeye 84 Baking riser 90 Appropriateness or relevance 92 Tiny 93 Parchment?

94 Coined money 95 Tidier 96 One of 150 in the Bible 97 Glide on ice 99 Was a bounder?

100 Writing class assignment 101 Heal 102 Land o’ blarney 103 With the ability 104 Son of Isaac 105 School club for singers 106 Like some very old generals (Abbr.)

107 Dried up and withered

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.

“S VSPZ RCSN VSWZ ... DIR S PFKL GKI HKF’R XZR RCZ NLZZR JTMR LSRCKIR RCZ DSRRZM.” – CKVVG FZTM “B TMMX BH DAC YBIIMI, B TMMX FD DAC CHCYR ... B KAMPTW AFZC VMPNAD YRKCTS F YBIIMI F TMHN DBYC FNM.”

– WFIIRT KDIFJVCIIR

Puzzle Two Clue: S equals F

STAY STRONG by Timothy B. Parker

Puzzle One Clue: J equals P

CROSSWORD

229077

www.manasotaonline.com

©2017 NEA, Inc.

SUDOKU

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

©2017 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

3-23-17

Thursday, March 23, 2017

INFO & RATES: 386-447-9723, ext132 • Fax: 941-362-4808 • EMAIL: randi@palmcoastObserver.com • ONLINE: classifieds.yourobserver.com HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8:30am-4pm • DEADLINES: Classifieds - Monday at Noon • Service Directory - Friday at 3pm • PAYMENT: Cash, Check or Credit Card

Garage/Moving/Estate Sales

Cleaning

ANNUAL CREEKWOOD Community Wide Yard Sale. Five neighborhoods to participate. Saturday, March 25, 8a.m.-2p.m., SR70 & Creekwood Blvd.

Furniture, small appliances, clothing & toys.

BRAZILIAN CLEANING Service by Maria.

Residential. Meticulous Cleaning. Excellent References. Free Estimates. Reliable. Lic./Ins. 941-400-3342.

Items Under $200 For Sale 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.

386-447-9723 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 P.O. Box 3169 Sarasota, Fl 34230

General Merchandise ADULT TRICYCLE 3 wheel bike, brand new, big seat, large basket, easy to ride, I can deliver to you if needed, still in box! 275 firm 9412121742

Merchandise Wanted CASH FOR Old Military Items. Swords, uniforms, insignia & old guns. Call 941-416-3280.

Sporting Goods ADULT TRIKE Red tricycle, barely used, with two baskets, cup holder, bell, rearview mirrors $275 (941) 216−9195

BRAND NEW Black Whirlpool Dishwasher ($195).

Coordinating microwave available. Call 941-8126077 for details and options.

HOOVER VACUUM, Wind tunnel max, bagless, used twice, like new $95. 941.723.3707, 401.294.5791

RENTAL MANAGEMENT company taking more seasonal and annual properties.

Improve your rental return.

Call 941-782-1559 or visit: www.choosegulfcoast.com for a free rental appraisal

NINO’S CLEANING Service Experienced prompt woman to clean you home References.

LWR resident. (813) 377−6764

Computer Services COMPUTER/MAC, SMARTPHONE, Tablet repairs, setups, technology consultations, virus removal.

Specializing Seniors/Beginners. On/Off Site. Peg 941-735-3362

SELL IT!

Landscaping & Lawn Service

Announcements Y ADOPTION: Y A Stay-Home Mom & Successful Executive yearn to LOVE & CHERISH your baby. FLBar42311, Expenses paid.

1-800-552-0045 Y Laura & Scott Y

MAGNAVOX TELEVISION, 31 INCHES, Very good condition, $135, 917-331-4315 TRANSPORT WHEELCHAIR $125, walker $25, shower chair $35, all items less than month old.

941-739-1045 VALANCE MOUNTED on board, pale pink silk, 12’ (144”), 5 scallops, 2-corner jabots, $100.

941.351.8163 WHEELCHAIR W/FOOTRESTS,$70. Car bike rack holds-2, $30. Electrolux vacuum canister $65. Cactus 2'tall $15. 941.359.8460

386-447-9723

or classifieds.yourobserver.com

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

941-809-3660, 941-809-3662.

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Lakewood Ranch Lawn & Landscape LLC

Condos/Apts. For Rent FURNISHED GOLF VILLA with membership privileges. Upscale, 2BR/2BA, 1 month minimum.

Long or short term. No pets. Non-smoking.

904-556-8900.

Autos For Sale

- Complete Lawn & Landscaping Maintenance - Irrigation Repair and Installation - Landscaping Installation 941-373-5110

Condos For Sale

BEAUTIFUL BMW Z4, 2005, 27,000 miles only, 1 lady owner. Well-maintained, excellent condition, Minimum offer $20,000. 941.251.3335

MEADOWS-WEYBRIDGE 4438. 2BR/2BA, ground floor, upgraded kitchen, baths and glass enclosed lanai. Other improvements. Turn-key, nicely furnished. Great view, palm trees, water, golf course. $182,000. 941.351.4850

2002 LEXUS SC 430 British Racing Green (Dark) with Leather Interior.

New tires and fully maintained with maintenance records $17,500 (404) 606−2924

Homes For Sale

Classified Ads Bring Results 386-447-9723

4BR/3BA/3C LWR− Motivated Sellers! Nearly 3000sq.ft. Features two family rooms, formal living/dining, granite, ss, huge backyard.

Countless Upgrades, Call Today! 941−404−0510

Adult Care Services

Autos Wanted

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

Call Hawley Motors, 941-923-3421.

PERSONALIZED IN-HOME care to meet any needs. We provide medical and non-medical services 24/7. From transportation and housekeeping to meal preparation and medication assistance. We can create a customized plan that works for you. Call ElderCare Services at 3774465 or visit our website at: www.ElderCareSarasota.com for more information. Licensed, bonded and Insured.

Lic# 30211372

Flooring

PRIVATE DUTY HOME CARE TEAM Five exceptionally qualified caregivers available for the first time in 6 years. Care provided 24 hours or less. Excellent references. Lic./Ins. 941-306-7193.

Auto Transport WOOD FLOORS, laminate & tile. Sales and Installation. Master craftsman working in and around lakewood ranch and Sarasota. over 15 years excellent references. Fully Licensed and Insured. Call for free estimates Joe Davis, 941.929.3000.

SHIP YOUR car, truck or SUV anywhere in the United States. Great rates, fast quotes. Call Hawley Motors, 941-923-3421.

Furnishings

CLAUDIA C. Cleaning Services. Experienced, Dependable and ready to begin! Residential.

Excellent references. 941-773-6895.

Cleaning

ITALIAN MARBLE cocktail table, 43” square, marble base also, Beige/off-white swirled top.

Robin Stucky $1200, sacrifice $400.

941.749.7651

BLUE FISH Cleaning Inc. 941-705-3812. sured, Bonded. Affordable reliable home ing, $80, 2 cleaners, 2 hours.

AIR CONDITIONING

Puzzle Two Solution: “I look in the mirror, I look at the enemy ... I should have bought myself a mirror a long time ago.”

– Darryl Strawberry

Painting/Wallpapering

This week’s Sudoku answers

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.

Pet Services PROFESSIONAL PET SITTING: Certified Veterinary Technician serving all of Lakewood Ranch.

20+ Years experience.

E-mail: catladypetsitting@yahoo.com 856-981-2047.

Pools POOL SERVICE - reliable, affordable weekly pool service by certified owner. Hundreds of satisfied customers, many testimonials. SAVE MONEY WITH THIS AD. Call now, Blissful Pools, 941-7050400.

©2017 NEA, Inc.

This week’s Crossword answers

Professional Services I PAY YOU $$$ I will give you back 50 percent of my Realtor commission!!! Buying a RESALE or NEW builder home in Sarasota or Manatee County? Buy your home using my services & get a check from me at closing.

15 Years of Experience Denise Anderson, Realtor direct 941.284.4612 hrhdenise@hotmail.com office 813.260.3166 www.a-fulltime-realtor.com Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc

Inclean-

SAVE THIS AD! This offer never expires!

2017

ALTERATIONS/UPHOLSTERY

ALUMINUM

TEPE UPHOLSTERY

INTEGRITY AC

Insured

Retail Fabric Showroom

941-358-3335

GETS THE JOB DONE!

Draperies • Furniture Upholstery • Slip Covers 2200 51st. St., Sarasota, FL 34234 E-mail: tepe@tepeuph.net www.tepeuph.com

234397

NEED A NEW AC? FREE ESTIMATES! NEED A SERVICE CALL? $89 to show up and diagnosis!

Puzzle One Solution: “I like this life ... but I know you don’t get the sweet part without the bitter.”

– Holly Near

(Service Call amount credited back w/repair)

Yoder Aluminum Inc.

Email loritheaclady@aol.com Visit us at www.integrityacwholesale.com

SERVICE

Call (941) 704-9413

DIRECTORY

“Specializing in 6” Seamless Gutters”

NEED A SECOND OPINION? FREE!

Yoderaluminum.com

WORKS FOR YOU Call 386-447-7923 to reserve your space

Dustin Yoder yoderaluminum@gmail.com

WE MAKE IT EASY TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD

License# CACO56980

LV10321

CALL 386.447.9723 OR VISIT CLASSIFIEDS.YOUROBSERVER.COM

15505 Lemon Fish Dr. Bradenton, FL 34202 Office 941-650-9790

235019

LUGGAGE Brand new RADEN roll−on w/built−in phone charger. , asking $150. (941) 730−6978.

234851

Property Management

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

CABINET MAKING

CABINET MAKER

INC.

PEST CONTROL

IKEAÂŽ KITCHEN INSTALLATION & DESIGN SERVICE

Be Your Own Pest Control Person.

Professional Products For Home + Yard.

Prevent All Insects Before A Problem.

Up To 80% Less Than Pest Companies.

BUG BUSTERS

by the Multi-Award Winning Kitchen Craft, LLC

Like Us on Facebook

Do-It-Yourself Pest Products Since 1993 Bradenton

233939

We are Not IKEA’s Installers We are Your IKEA Kitchen Installer

COUNTRY CANINE MAKEOVERS DOG GROOMING

Independent Svc Provider

DRYER START A FIRE!

941-726-2662

Call Paradise Dryer Vent Cleaning Today

234076

234596

Already have an IKEA Kitchen design you’re working with?

Email us for a FREE installation quote!

YOUR SAFETY IS PRICELESS! 941. 979. 2707

Your IKEA kitchen warranty will not be void if we install your kitchen

Dryers and washing machines were involved in one out of every 22 home structure ďŹ res LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED reported to U.S. ďŹ re departments in 2006-2010.

SAFE ROOF CLEANING BIODEGRADABLE PRODUCTS

THE GRAB BAR GUY

CONCRETE

Custom Surfaces Inc. DECORATIVE SURFACES FOR: PATIOS, POOL DECKS, DRIVEWAYS, ENTRYWAYS

Pressure Cleaning & Soft Washing Residential and Commercial

Houses, Pool Cage & Decks, Fences, Driveways & Walks Irrigation, Fertilizer, Rust & Battery Stain Removal

941-737-4483

234392

GLENN KROECKER

Sliding Glass Door Repair

233915

(cell) 780-3346 Licensed & Insured

REALTORS BRIDGET FORD REALTORÂŽ

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

THIS SPACE COULD BE

Cushions • Slings • Re-powdercoating #USHIONS s 3LINGS s 5MBRELLAS

YOURS!

233932 38056

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

Agner’s Handyman Home Services LLC “The smallest things make the biggest difference�

Bisson RooďŹ ng Inc.

386-447-9723

Reliable Marble Care, LLC – Stone Care Specialists Call for Free Estimate reliablemarblecare.com

941.587.8093

HOME SERVICES

941-224-6649

Owner Supervises Every Job

Specializing in Lanai Screening and Panel Replacements David Hall

233918

Starts at just $30/mo. • Family Owned and Operated Serving Manatee and Sarasota Counties

AMEROVENT

Financing Available • RC0067420 • Lic. & Ins.

HallAmericanScreening@Gmail.com HallAmericanScreening.com

233177

941-321-9441

Ins./Bonded

www.amerovent.net

234569

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

941-705-5468

Commercial

PAINTING

A FULL SERVICE IRRIGATION COMPANY Maintenance - Repair -Installation

rain sensors

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

941-726-7077

Res./Com. Lic./Ins. & Pressure C Window lean t e s ing known as Sunrise W Sun ind erly Form Serving Longboat Key Since 2005 ows

a FREE estimate!

UNIQUE PAINTING & PRESSURE WASHING SERVICES Complete Interior & Exterior Painting

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

233942

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

941-888-2988 FREE ESTIMATES rainscape.com

• Pool Cage Restoration • Rescreening Specialists • Specialty Screens • Paint • Doors and more!

Satisfaction Guarantee Manufacture and Workmanship Warranties

WINDOWS

LAKEWOOD RANCH PAINTING

Ask a Neighbor!

233194

20 any irrigation $ OFF repair over 100 $

233216

IRRIGATION

15% OFF

941-345-5264

23498

233938

Residential

David Hall is the one to call!!!

233935

Are You Having Dryer DifďŹ culties? • Dryer hot but clothes still wet after (1) drying cycle? • Dryer gets hot to the touch or doesn’t heat up at all?

941-993-9976

Licensed and Insured

DRYER VENT CLEANING SPECIALISTS

3680109-01

www.bissonrooďŹ ng.com

HALL AMERICAN SCREENING LLC

Gulf Breeze Home Watch www.homewatchofsarasota.com info@homewatchofsarasota.com

941 - 748 - 7400

SCREENING

MOVERS

Peace of Mind While You Are Away

Specializing in Reroofs and Repairs FREE Estimates • 30 Years Experience

LV10365

Marble • All Natural Stones • Travertine • Granite • Terrazzo Grout Cleaning • Repair/ReďŹ nish • Clean & Seal

Specializing in Custom Closets & Residential Storage Solutions

BethBarnett@kw.com

Mobile (941) 730-0130

ROOFING

MASONRY

HANDYMAN

Beth Barnett REALTORÂŽ 8210 Lakewood Ranch Blvd Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202

on about Call for Informati tory the Service Direc

233228

941-504-0903

Home Sales and Annual Rentals

234385

www.smallenginerepairs.us Small Engine Repairs, 5002 Lena Road, Unit 107, Bradenton, 34211

233937

233933

AngiesList.com

PATIO REPAIRS FurnitureSales Sales &&Repairs Furniture Repairs

234980

TOP PRODUCER Selling East County

We earned the 2016 Super Service Award from Angie’s List. The Award

941-739-5102

Cell: 941-720-5768

,HJO 6ɉJL PZ 0UKLWLUKLU[S` 6^ULK HUK 6WLYH[LK

reflects consistent high levels of customer service. Check our reviews at

PATIO FURNITURE REPAIRS

www.agnershandyman.wix.com/handyman

Bford53222@aol.com Bridgetford.com

Lawn mowers - generators - grass trimmers pressure washers - atvs - chain saws PICK-UP & DELIVERY SERVICE

FURNITURE REPAIR

With this ad

Classified Ads Bring Results • 386-447-9723

LAWN CARE

“FIX IT - DON’T REPLACE�

www.PantherHydroCleaning.com

10 % SAVINGS

954-1878

DOORS

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

POWER WASHING

www.yourikeakitcheninstaller.com

www.paradisedryervent.com

Call for appointment

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

234393

DON’T LET YOUR

PET SERVICES

234384

CLEANING

3675768-01

528 E. Brandon Blvd.

234401

www.themastercabinetmaker.com

Licensed • Insured Lic. #25393

Brandon

5900 Tamiami Trail

922-1817 813-651-4477 746-6654 Mon-Fri 9 am-5:30 pm; Sat 9 am-2:30 pm

Palmetto

• POLY-PEBBLE / EPOXY • TEXTURED CONCRETE • RESEAL & REPAIRS • INTERLOCKING BRICK PAVERS Free Serving Sarasota 355-1148 Estimates Since 1979 SARASOTA • BRADENTON • VENICE

Sarasota

3790 14th St. W. Behind Lowes

233226

Truly Custom Cabinets made in Palmetto, FL Design and Remodeling • Custom Countertops Custom special cabinets for mobile homes

941-723-0278

KITCHEN/BATH REMODELING

233229

The Master

31

THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

|

UP TO

110

WINDOWS $ 25 STANDARD

INCLUDING SCREENS, TRACKS, MIRRORS & FANS

% OFF + Additional $ 00 SPECIAL 1 0 5 www.sunsetwindowcleaningsrq.com For Senior Citizens

Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES | 941-284-5880

32

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

Landscape with House and Ploughman (detail) Vincent van Gogh

6926 Lacantera Circle $1,597,000 | Web ID A4180545 Laura Stavola 941.447.4875

7120 Teal Creek Glen $2,890,000 | Web ID A4176291 Linda Apple 941.586.0553

7917 Waterton Lane $2,885,580 | Web ID A4168185 Jim Soda & Donna Soda 941.961.5857

8388 Catamaran Circle $1,990,000 | Web ID A4151486 Linda Apple 941.586.0553

8040 Manasota Key Road $1,980,000 | Web ID A4167143 Martie Lieberman 941.724.1118

16116 Clearlake Avenue $1,799,000 | Web ID A4177959 Jim Soda & Donna Soda 941.961.5857

13206 Palmers Creek Terrace $1,785,000 | Web ID A4169254 Jim Soda & Donna Soda 941.961.5857

7807 Mathern Court $1,390,000 | Web ID A4161604 Jim Soda & Donna Soda 941.961.5857

75 Grande Fairway $1,199,000 | Web ID N5910123 Maryanne Kurtz & Dan Olson 941.441.6624

7527 Greystone Street $999,900 | Web ID A4148445 Linda Apple & Carrie Lamb 941.586.0553

6911 Winners Circle $875,000 | Web ID A4166877 Jim Soda & Donna Soda 941.961.5857

6620 225th Street East $650,000 | Web ID A4155811 Martha Marlar 941.812.0455

6809 Turnberry Isle Court $597,000 | Web ID A4163881 Jim Soda & Donna Soda 941.961.5857

3640 Longmeadow $549,000 | Web ID A4160765 Louis Wery 941.232.3001

13938 Siena Loop $549,000 | Web ID A4166842 Gloria Bracciano & Greg Van Natter 941.730.1999

14603 Leopard Creek Place $525,000 | Web ID A4176059 Laura Stavola 941.447.4875

437 Whitfield Avenue $520,000 | Web ID A4172982 Brandi Furlan & Lisa Morreale 941.894.9888

7715 Calle Facil $499,000 | Web ID A4180378 Joel Schemmel & Sharon Chiodi 941.587.4894

4441 Mcintosh Lake Avenue $485,900 | Web ID A4176413 Liz Snyder 727.424.6444

15414 Helmsdale Place $485,000 | Web ID A4166170 Laura Stavola 941.447.4875

7556 Calle Facil $479,000 | Web ID A4149294 Maureen & Matt Morris 941.320.3960

6465 Watercrest Way #404 $479,000 | Web ID A4170936 Gloria Bracciano & Greg Van Natter 941.730.1999

5257 88th Street East $464,000 | Web ID A4170391 Jim Soda & Donna Soda 941.961.5857

14544 Whitemoss Terrace $454,999 | Web ID A4153903 Linda Apple & Carrie Lamb 941.586.0553

1918 Burgos Drive $439,000 | Web ID A4170266 Helena & Per Nordstrom 941.228.7356

9504 Forest Hills Circle $438,000 | Web ID N5910068 Svatka Jurinova 941.202.8084

8214 Harborside Circle $429,000 | Web ID N5910313 Bonnie Price 941.350.3362

12203 Clubhouse Drive $429,000 | Web ID A4170807 Laura Stavola 941.447.4875

7171 Sandhills Place $424,900 | Web ID A4167998 Corbett Donovan & Lauren Holt 941.232.5672

12418 Thornhill Court $424,000 | Web ID A4156748 Gloria Bracciano & Greg Van Natter 941.730.1999

4087 Southwell Way $399,000 | Web ID A4171169 Roberta Tengerdy & Carolyn Collins 941.321.2292

6647 Oakland Hills Drive $389,000 | Web ID A4176881 Stacy Haas-Goodwin 941.587.4359

3607 65th Avenue East $385,000 | Web ID A4177214 Stacy Haas-Goodwin 941.587.4359

4841 Sunday Court $369,900 | Web ID A4173472 Brandi Furlan & Lisa Morreale 941.894.9888

6707 Spring Moss Place $349,900 | Web ID A4175854 Jim Soda & Donna Soda 941.961.5857

4104 Reflections Parkway $349,900 | Web ID A4176770 Liz Snyder 727.424.6444

5718 Beaurivage Avenue $324,000 | Web ID A4176362 Fernando Viteri 941.400.7676

12236 Whisper Lake Drive $319,900 | Web ID A4170679 Mary Northrup 941.544.0763

19431 Beacon Park Place $310,000 | Web ID A4126736 Jim Soda & Donna Soda 941.961.5857

20,000 associates | 860 offices worldwide | 66 countries and territories globally | 40 Premier Sotheby’s International Realty locations LONGBOAT KEY | 941.383.1526 ST. ARMANDS | 941.383.2500

SARASOTA - DOWNTOWN | 941.364.4000

LAKEWOOD RANCH | 941.907.9541

VENICE | 941.412.3323

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 and neither suggests nor infers that Premier Sotheby’s International Realty participated as either the listing or cooperating agent or broker in the sale or purchase of the properties depicted. *Landscape with House and Ploughman (detail) by Vincent van Gogh used with permission.

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED PARTNER WITH A GLOBAL REACH

PREMIERSOTHEBYSREALTY.COM

230913

Wall Street Journal and REAL Trends Top 500 OVER $4 BILLION IN SALES VOLUME IN 2015 *