East County Observer 5.13.21

E A ST COUNTY

Observer Lakewood Ranch’s weekly newspaper since 1998

Gold medal effort.

PAGE 17A

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

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FREE THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

VOLUME 23, NO. 26

YOUR TOWN

Tara bridge idea scrapped Manatee County commissioners say bridge no longer makes sense. PAGE 3A

Liz Ramos

Slime adds up for math teacher Ann Fleury, a math teacher at Lakewood Ranch High School, waited May 5 for green gooey slime to be poured on her.

As the slime poured down her body, she squirmed.

“It was as gross as I thought it would be,” Fleury said. “It took longer to make the slime than to get slimed.”

Students paid 25 cents per vote to choose five teachers who would be slimed. Proceeds went to the senior class. Besides Fleury, other teachers selected to be slimed were Jeff Simmons, Mike Wood, Meghan Sugalski and Faust DeLazzer.

HEY, BABY!

Lemur Conservation Foundation of Myakka City welcomes four new babies to an endangered population. SEE PAGE 8A Brendan Lavell

Paint captures inspired return Because of the pandemic and recently the winter tourism season, Country Club’s Jamie Fugardi hadn’t ventured to the beach in a while. Once fully vaccinated, she returned in April with a visit to Lido Key. Fugardi felt so inspired by the visit that she commemorated it by creating a painting of sand dunes and the ocean, called “Walk to the Beach.” She said she painted dunes because they are soothing and induce comfort.

“When you’re walking through those dunes, it hits you,” Fugardi said. “You feel the air, you smell the gulf, you see the birds. … I think being an artist, you appreciate it.”

Courtesy of Lemur Conservation Foundation

This red-ruffed lemur was one of the triplets born at the Lemur Conservation Foundation in April. A collared brown lemur also was born.

No march in May: Parade off

File photo

Navy veteran Ken Green was part of the color guard during the 2019 Tribute to Heroes Parade.

Live concert will be held at Adventure Park instead of Tribute to Heroes Parade.

SEE PAGE 5A

A+E

Different lens changes focus.

SEE PAGE 14A

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

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Firefighters crush latest exam

BE PREPARED

Scenarios practiced during Vehicle Machinery Rescue training n Extrication (removing patients from trapped vehicle) n School bus evacuation (includes cutting through bus) n Commercial vehicle accidents n Impalement rescue n Disentanglement rescue

The East Manatee Fire Rescue District received hands-on training for large vehicle accidents, cutting through school buses and more.

BRENDAN LAVELL STAFF WRITER

A junkyard might seem a strange place for firefighters to take a grueling training course, but where else were they supposed to find an 18-wheeler, a school bus and a virtually unlimited supply of cars to be crushed?

East Manatee Fire Rescue District’s technical rescue team took the 40-hour Vehicle Machinery Rescue Technician class, part of the Florida Urban Search and Rescue series, the week of April 26. The class taught firefighters how to respond to accidents involving large commercial and passenger vehicles.

The technical rescue team has 16 members, with four to six members on each 24-hour shift, though the fire district would like to add more. East Manatee firefighters who are interested in joining must first take the classes the rest of the team has completed.

“It speaks highly to the quality of individuals that we have working here,” said Battalion Chief Paul Wren, who is also a member of the technical rescue team.

“This is a lot of work. It’s a lot of training. It’s a lot of time and extra above and beyond effort. Everyone of these guys that are on the team, they display that.”

The Vehicle Machinery Rescue Technician course consisted of a

classroom session April 26, rescuing dummy passengers from accidents involving large vehicles including 18-wheelers and school buses April 27 and 28, and impalement and disentanglement rescue April 29.

On April 30, the firefighters were faced with a test — a practice session involving a surprise mixture of the lessons they learned the previous four days as well as a written examination and instructor feedback.

“This is above and beyond any regular firefighting duty,” Wren said. “Being able to add technical rescue skills to the complement that our district already has just takes us and our capabilities to the next level. It allows us to be able to serve our community with a much broader spectrum of skills.”

Wren said there are a number of major thoroughfares in and around the East Manatee fire district, from I-75 to State Road 70 and University Parkway to State Road 64. Those are the types of roads where accidents involving commercial vehicles can and do happen. He said the Vehicle Machinery Rescue Technician class will ensure firefighters are as prepared as they can be when they face similar situations in real life.

“It’s not a matter of if; it’s just a matter of when,” Wren said. “A lot of these guys, they’ve had multiple extrications, even previous

com use.

Th

to this advanced training, where we’ve had to make it work with commercial vehicles involved.

This allows us to work more efficiently, more safely, to be more productive and precise.”

Wren said the other benefit of taking the course is the ability to help neighboring fire districts with specialized, heavy-duty calls in the future. He said it’s a “huge deal” for the fire districts, and firefighters are excited to become a local resource.

“These calls are the types that you will never forget,” Wren said.

“Ultimately, every call we run, we hope for a successful outcome. It’s not always realistic. Sometimes it doesn’t work out that way — it’s just not in the cards. But what we want to be able to say at the end of the day is we came, [and] we did the very best that we could.”

Lt. Derek LaPlante rests and listens to the instructor after firefighters finished smoothing out the hole they cut in a school bus where children would evacuate the accident.

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Firefighter Derek Parker uses TNT cutters as he finishes prying open the doorway to the driver’s side of the car.

There are other classes available for the technical rescue team to take, as well. The team completed a rope rescue course in 2016 and will soon plan when to take classes on the remaining three categories: confined space rescue, trench rescue and structural collapse rescue.

In addition to technician classes, each category has an operations class that is more of an introduction to the topic. For example, the Vehicle Machinery Rescue Operations class prepared firefighters for accidents where they would rescue people from passenger vehicles and large trucks and vans.

If all 10 courses — a technician class and an operations class for each of the five different categories — are completed, the fire district hopes to be certified as a Type I Light Technical Rescue Team. Doing so would allow the firefighters and their equipment to become a deployable asset in the Suncoast region under Florida’s State Emergency Response Plan.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

Brendan Lavell

Tara Preserve residents Stan Barr and Bob Saunders are opposed to the Tara Bridge project. Saunders says he would like to see the land used for a park.

BRIDGE NO LONGER IN TARA PLANS The Tara Bridge was first included in Manatee County’s Comprehensive Plan in 1989.

STAFF WRITER

n Bra d e

v Ri e r

W

N

LINGER LODGE RD.

PROPOSED TARA BRIDGE HONORE AVE.

hen Stan Barr moved from Indiana to Tara in 2016, he noticed a sign at the end of Tara Boulevard.

The sign informed Barr that Tara Boulevard could be extended one day via a bridge over the Braden River.

Naturally, Barr asked his neighbors about it. They told him the extension and bridge had been in the planning process “forever and ever” and that the extension would likely never happen.

As it turns out, Barr’s neighbors could be proven correct soon.

The Manatee County Commission directed Administrator Scott Hopes to remove the Tara Boulevard extension from the county’s thoroughfare plan at a May 4 work session after five commissioners said they oppose the project.

Commissioners will vote on the revised thoroughfare plan at a meeting to be determined.

Commissioners said the construction of Tara Bridge might have made sense as a north-south connector when it was first added to the county’s comprehensive plan in 1989, but now they think it would direct too much traffic on a winding road through the middle of a residential area and dump it onto congested Honore Avenue.

“Honestly, if you go down Lockwood Ridge Road or Honore, the traffic that’s on that road is already bumper to bumper,” Commissioner Vanessa Baugh said. “If you put the Tara Bridge in, you’re just going to add even more to it. You’ve got more homes that are getting ready to be built in that area anyway. So it’s ludicrous that we would even attempt

VD. TA BL RA

BRENDAN LAVELL

to do that.”

The Tara Boulevard extension was a “project of record,” meaning it had no designated funding or timeline for construction. The Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization estimated in 2011 that construction of the bridge would cost $50 million.

The county estimated construction would cost $14 million, but MPO board members questioned the staff-produced estimate.

“It’s a complete waste of money with all the other capital improvement plan work we have to do,” Commissioner George Kruse said. “If someone wants to revisit this 50 years from now, knock yourself out. But right now, until we get everything else on the CIP done, I don’t even see why it’s listed in an addendum in the back of that thing.”

The project would have been funded by impact fees because it is capacity related. The last time the project was broached by commissioners in 2016, they said it was more important to focus on

75

other road projects, such as the 44th Avenue extension.

Although the bridge had been included in the Comprehensive Plan for more than three decades, it never seemed to be a high priority. It was removed once before being reinstated, and the county didn’t acquire the final piece of land it needed until June 2012.

By then, Baugh said, the project didn’t make sense anymore.

Baugh said a Tara Boulevard extension probably looked like a natural piece of a strong grid system when it first became part of the comprehensive plan, but she said plans need to adapt to the ever-changing marketplace. She said the communities on Tara Boulevard and Honore Avenue were some of the first built in East County and boomed rapidly.

Once the area became so densely residential, she said, the project was no longer viable.

“People in Tara were like, ‘Well, wait a minute here. You basically want to turn Tara Boulevard into the next Lakewood Ranch Bou-

THEY SAID IT “I think the added burden of the traffic would be ridiculous. …

Every road that goes through now is just bursting at the seams.”

— Jeannie Griffis, Tara Preserve

“It’s a public safety issue when it all comes down to it. If emergency response times are improved, the Tara bridge project is a necessity for the people of our community.”

— Nick Artemik, River Place

|

THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

levard,’” Kruse said. “It’s not, and it wasn’t intended to be. It’s a subdivision-type of road that was meant to service residents in those greater neighborhoods.”

A large number of Tara residents said they would be happy if commissioners scrapped the plans.

Tara Community Development District Chair Darby Connor said the half of Tara Boulevard located in Tara Preserve is an especially dangerous two-lane road where fatal accidents have occurred.

Jeannie Griffis, who has lived in Tara Preserve for eight years, agreed that safety is her top concern. She said accidents would have gotten much worse if the bridge were built.

“In the last six months going on 75, it’s still bumper to bumper,” Griffis said. “To take some of that burden and put it on a residential road just does not make sense.”

Maureen McFadden has been a resident of Tara Preserve for the past nine years. One of her biggest reasons for opposing the bridge was protecting wildlife. McFadden said most people who live in Tara do so to enjoy the tranquility of nature. She was concerned about the animal habitat that would have been destroyed if a bridge were built.

“You can’t call it Tara Preserve anymore if you go and build this,” McFadden said.

A few residents who live near Tara, however, wanted to see the bridge built. River Place resident Nick Artemik said extending Tara Boulevard would cut emergency response time in the area.

“It’s a public safety issue when it all comes down to it,” Artemik said. “If emergency response times are improved, the Tara Bridge project is a necessity for the people of our community.”

Sandy Sweeney, who lives near Carolina Landings, has lived in East County since she was in fourth grade. She said the bridge would have smoothed out traffic in the area. Sweeney said she often needs to use I-75 to go north, which she does when visiting family members who live off State Road 70, because Lockwood Ridge Road is too far west, and there aren’t many other northsouth connectors. “[I-75 is] backed up almost every day,” Sweeney said. “I know that [the bridge] has been in the plans. I’ve been waiting for it for several years.”

Now that the bridge is no longer scheduled for construction, the county has to decide what to do with the land it has acquired for the Tara Boulevard extension. To complete the project, the county bought about 26.5 acres of land for about $2.2 million between September 2011 and June 2012.

That land is now surplus.

Baugh said she would like to see the county find a way to use it, whether it becomes a park or space for affordable housing.

Kruse said there are a number of uses. Although he has a selfproclaimed affinity for affordable housing, he said it would be a tight fit in this case. Instead, he suggested the possibility of a swap. The county could build affordable housing somewhere on S.R. 70 where a park is planned and instead build a park at the end of Tara Boulevard.

“It’s right on the river,’” Kruse said. “You can even drop some kayak launches there — people can kayak out to Linger Lodge — and make a park that Tara can use.

But it’s open to the community because Tara is not a gated community. It could be for the benefit of Manatee County.”

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

Uihlein Road development approved

Meet Dr. Dexter Manatee Physician Alliance David W. Dexter, MD, FACS

BRENDAN LAVELL

Board Certified in General Surgery; Fellow in the American College of Surgeons

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We are pleased to introduce David W. Dexter, MD, FACS, the newest surgeon to join Manatee Physician Alliance.

Dr. Dexter is board certified in General Surgery and a Fellow in the American College of Surgeons. He will be seeing both elective and acute care general surgery patients at Lakewood Ranch Medical Center. He performs all aspects of general surgery, but has particular skills in minimally invasive and daVinci® robotic surgery.

Dr. Dexter earned his medical degree from the State University of New York Upstate Medical University College of Medicine in Syracuse. He completed his General Surgery Residency at the Wright State University and Wright-Patterson USAF Integrated Surgical Residency in Dayton, Ohio. He also served on active duty as a General Surgeon at Wright-Patterson U.S. Air Force Medical Center. Dr. Dexter comes to our area after serving as a Trauma and General Surgeon in Erie, Pa., for 20 years. He is excited to bring his experience and enthusiasm for Robotic and Minimally Invasive Surgery to the Lakewood Ranch Community.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Dexter or learn more about Lakewood Ranch Medical Group by calling 941.254.6767.

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LAND USE VERDICTS

STAFF WRITER

What: Preliminary site plan to construct a neighborhood of 172 paired villas and a rezone from general agriculture and medium neighborhood commercial to planned development residential Where: 39 acres near the southwest corner of State Road 64 and Uihlein Road Decision: 6-0 in favor of approval What: General development plan amendment to allow 15 single-family units near the Concession entrance Where: 17 acres near the southeastern corner of State Road 70 and Lindrick Lane Decision: Continuance granted

preliminary site plan to construct a neighborhood of 172 paired villas on 39 acres near the southwestern corner of State Road 64 and Uihlein Road was approved 6-0 by the Manatee County Commission at a May 6 land use meeting.

Commissioner James Satcher was absent from the meeting after his wife gave birth the day before.

The approved amendment also rezoned the property from general agriculture and medium neighborhood commercial to planned development residential.

A previous amendment passed by the commission April 15 changed the land use category in the county’s comprehensive plan from urban fringe with three dwelling units allowed per acre to residential, which is subject to become official after review by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity. Usually, a residential designation would allow for six dwelling units per acre, but a condition was added to the amendment to limit the land to four and a half units per acre.

LaBarr said that the limitation to four and a half dwelling units per acre would provide for a natural transition between development to the south and west, where communities are allowed up to nine dwelling units per acre, and the urban fringe to the north and east.

The property is owned by Cecil Moore and his family, though

Neal Communities applied for the amendment. Neal Communities President and CEO Pat Neal said his company has reached out to all the bordering property owners and that any concerns about the development have been assuaged.

LaBarr said the development would include a 30-foot buffer of canopy trees and shrubs, double the width required by the county’s land development code, on its western border, which is adjacent to low-density subdivision Rolling Acres.

In other news, an amendment that would allow 15 single-family units to be built on about 17 acres of land near the entrance to the Concession was continued May 15.

No new date has been set for the quasi-judicial hearing.

EAST COUNTY

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

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THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

5A

Tribute to Heroes Parade canceled A smaller, live concert event at the Greenbrook Adventure Park will replace the parade.

MANAGING EDITOR

W

hile many Floridians debate whether they can return to their normal routines, Lakewood Ranch Community Activities will continue to be cautious.

Keith Pandeloglou, the executive director of Lakewood Ranch Community Activities, announced last week that the Tribute to Heroes Parade would be canceled for the second consecutive year.

“It behooves us to be conservative,” Pandeloglou said, noting it was a difficult decision because the parade is Lakewood Ranch Community Activities’ “beacon.”

Pandeloglou said his board wanted to hold off as long as possible to make a decision about the parade, traditionally held on Memorial Day weekend (though it was held the previous weekend in 2019), because the landscape is changing so quickly in reference to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We wait as close to each event as possible, so we can get a realistic view to make a decision,” Pandeloglou said. “We are planning 30 days at a time.”

Although the parade is can-

celed, LWRCA is hosting a live Tribute to Heroes concert 5-7 p.m. May 22 at the Greenbrook Adventure Park. Rock ‘n’ roll band Whiskey Blind will be featured.

“We thought, ‘What’s our goal [for the parade]?’” Pandeloglou said.

He said the goal has been to honor the nation’s fallen heroes and to raise some money for area veterans groups, along with giving people the opportunity to attend an outdoors event.

“We talked to area veterans groups and asked if they would be interested,” he said. “We received a resounding ‘yes.’”

A temporary stage will be assembled on the baseball field, and lawn seating for a maximum 500 people will be spaced out, so those attending can keep a safe social distance. Tickets will be free for Lakewood Ranch residents and $10 for nonresidents. Those who want to attend are asked to register in advance.

Parking is free for veterans, and others are asked to give a $5 donation for parking.

“As commander of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 12055 and on behalf of our members, it is our privilege to participate in this year’s remembrance of those ser-

File photo

Veteran Dave Daily of Mill Creek was the Grand Marshall of the last Tribute to Heroes Parade in 2019.

vice members whom we have lost in the fight for our nation’s causes,” said Graham Ellis, a Navy veteran.

“As we follow in their footsteps, we look forward to assisting local veterans in need and supporting the schools and students in the Lakewood Ranch area.”

Although the concert can’t match the parade in drawing power, Pandeloglou said he expects a good turnout.

“At the end of the day, people want to be outside,” he said.

A large tent will be provided for veterans who need the cover while patrons are asked to bring their own chairs.

Revenue for the veterans organizations will be earned through the sale of beer and wine.

A master of ceremonies will lead presentations before and after the band’s performance as well as at intermission.

Pandeloglou said he is confident LWRCA will host the Tribute to Heroes Parade in 2022, but he admits he is unsure whether the organization’s large events in the fall will be held. He said smaller versions of the events might still be in order.

“We still have to look at something ticketed,” he said, to control the attendance.

The pandemic has caused LWRCA to develop a host of smaller community events, a parks program strategy that has been successful and that will be continued after the pandemic

eases.

Pandeloglou said 35 smaller programs have been added, and another dozen are planned to debut this summer. Events also are planned for Waterside Place, the entertainment hub that is expected to be fully operational by the end of the year.

“In the first quarter of this year, we had 120 sessions of [the new events], which had 1,400 attendees,” he said. “Half of those programs were free [to Lakewood Ranch residents].”

As an example, he talked about the success of the disc golf program and the benefit of introducing people who attended to Bob Gardner Community Park.

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6A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

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Club President Dawn Zielinski displays the Florida Bicycle Association Club of the Year award for 2020, which was won by the Village Idiots Cycling Club, based in Lakewood Ranch.

Village Idiots rise to top Local cycling club’s emphasis on creating a better community earns state award.

BRENDAN LAVELL STAFF WRITER

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to be nothing more than social groups, organizing rides.

The Village Idiots Cycling Club, based in Lakewood Ranch, is not one of those clubs, Afonso said.

Afonso said club President Dawn Zielinski’s emphasis on improving the community for cyclists through education, safety programming, service projects and more has made the club among the best in Florida.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

ABOUT VILLAGE IDIOTS CYCLING CLUB Established: 2009 Location: Varies, but the largest rides start at Lakewood Ranch Main Street parking lot Size: 252 members How to join: Visit VillageIdiotsCycling.com.

As such, the FBA named Village Idiots as 2020 Club of the Year in April, the 22nd year the award has been given.

Afonso said 2020 was a difficult year for riding clubs, which found a way to do their rides and stay engaged in the community within recommended health and safety protocols.

Not only did Village Idiots continue to ride during the pandemic, but the club’s membership also grew from 134 on March 11, 2020, to 252. Afonso said that growth was particularly impressive given the local snowbird population, a group that tends to be older and therefore at higher risk during the pandemic.

“You become part of a big family, if you want that,” Zielinski said. “If you don’t want that, you can just come out and ride and go home afterward.”

Village Idiots has large rides Wednesday nights and Saturday mornings and smaller rides throughout the week. At the large rides, Zielinski said cyclists are generally split into groups based on ability level and speed.

Zielinski said the fastest group comes in at 26 mph and higher, while the slowest group cycles at about 14 mph. However, the club can make accommodations for

slower beginners as long as they show improvement during the first few rides.

Afonso said Zielinski’s leadership of Village Idiots goes above and beyond in a number of ways — from teaching members how to ride in a line to encouraging members to sign up for FBA bicycle education programs to sending emails reminding members about properly hydrating in the heat.

Zielinski and the Village Idiots have taken an active interest in improving the community for cyclists. For example, they were instrumental in reaching out to Manatee County when a bike lane was removed on Lakewood Ranch Boulevard at the intersection of State Road 70. A new bike lane will be created, said the Public Works Strategic Affairs manager, Ogden Clark III. The club has collaborated with Sarasota Cycling Club for a Drills and Skills class that teaches cyclists how to handle themselves in various situations with other bicycles and vehicles.

Other safety-focused initiatives include giving bicycle helmets to children at Robert Willis Elementary School and Ride of Silence, a short and slow-paced ride to raise awareness for cyclists’ rights to use public roadways.

Village Idiots also remained active through community service. Last year, the club donated $1,000 to Team Tony Cancer Foundation; $1,000 to A Ride to Remember, an organization that fights Alzheimer’s disease; $500 to Friends of the Legacy Trail; and $500 to Be Tri for Us, an organization that helps people with disabilities compete in triathlons.

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

EAST COUNTY

The red-ruffed lemur babies are already climbing around their enclosure, causing their mother a few headaches.

“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

Photos courtesy of Lemur Conservation Foundation

THE EYES ARE PRIZED Red-ruffed lemur triplets and one collared brown lemur born in April.

BRENDAN LAVELL STAFF WRITER

A

s the name suggests, the purpose of Myakka City’s Lemur Conservation Foundation is helping to save the lemur population.

For that reason, Executive Director Deborah Millman said this spring’s birthing season has been an exciting time for all those at the foundation.

A collared brown lemur was born at the foundation April 2, and red-ruffed lemur triplets were born April 13.

Any lemur birth is exciting, but the foundation said the specific species born are special. Collared brown lemurs are endangered, while red-ruffed lemurs are critically endangered, just one step away from extinction. This is the fourth successful collared brown birth in the foundation’s 25-year existence and its first multiple red-ruffed birth since 2008. “[It’s] a safety net for their species,” Millman said. “We work with institutions all over the country and actually all over the world to save the species by doing what we can to give them the ability to breed and be reared in a healthy, safe environment.”

The babies have not been named yet, but the red-ruffed lemurs eventually will be given

names in Malagasy, the national language of Madagascar. Their mom’s name is Zazabe, and their dad is named Ranomamy. The collared brown baby will be given a French name to match its parents, Isabelle and Olivier.

Curator of Primates Caitlin Kenney said the first hurdle after birth was observing whether the mothers, both of whom gave birth for the first time, were taking well to motherhood. Kenney said they have both provided active care for their infants.

The red-ruffed triplets, all girls, have doubled their birth weights (about 100 grams each).

They will reach adult size at about eight months.

The triplets are beginning to move around their enclosures on their own. They are leaving the nest where their mother cares for them and crawling along the ground or climbing on a beautyberry bush.

“That is driving Mom bonkers,” Kenney said. “She’ll go, and she’ll get one out of the bush.

She’ll bring it back to where it was, and she turns around, and there’s another one up in the bush already. It’s pretty entertaining to watch, actually, but she’s doing a fantastic job.”

The collared brown baby has continued to cling to its mother and will likely continue to do so for two to six more weeks as it gains weight. This means foundation staff members can’t yet work hands on with the collared brown baby the way they can with the red-ruffed triplets. For this rea-

The newborn red-ruffed lemur triplets are all girls. They have already doubled their body weight since birth.

The redruffed lemur mother, Zazabe, immediately took well to parenthood, which isn’t always the case. Her babies have already doubled their body weight.

FUN FACTS ABOUT REDRUFFED AND COLLARED BROWN LEMURS THEIR OWN COMB Red-ruffed: Have six bottom teeth they use to groom. It’s called a comb.

POLLINATORS Red-ruffed: When they eat, pollen sticks to their faces and then is transported as they move around.

TALL TAIL Collared brown: The average tail of a collared brown is about 20 inches, longer than the average body length of 16 inches.

son, the foundation has not yet determined the baby’s sex.

“We let [the mom] do all of the work,” Kenney said. “We don’t disturb her at all, and we just watch the baby grow.”

The collared brown baby likely won’t reach adult size until it’s about a year and a half old, Kenney said.

The next big tests for the babies and their mothers will be weaning, followed by forest introductions for the red-ruffed lemurs when they’re about 4 months old.

Kenney said babies can occasionally be scared of the trees in the forest when they first see them because they are much larger than the small trees and low-hanging branches in their enclosures.

The foundation does not yet have free-range forest space for collared brown lemurs, though it will be included as part of its expansion project.

Publisher / Emily Walsh EWalsh@YourObserver.com Associate Publisher — East County Observer / Lori Ruth LRuth@YourObserver.com Executive Editor / Kat Hughes KHughes@YourObserver.com Managing Editor / Jay Heater JHeater@YourObserver.com Sports Reporter / Ryan Kohn RKohn@YourObserver.com Staff Writer / Liz Ramos, LRamos@YourObserver.com; Brendan Lavell, BLavell@YourObserver.com Copy Editor/ Kaelyn Adix KAdix@YourObserver.com Editorial Designers / Melissa Leduc, MLeduc@YourObserver.com; Carol Parker, CParker@YourObserver.com Black Tie Editor / Harry Sayer HSayer@YourObserver.com Director of Advertising / Jill Raleigh JRaleigh@YourObserver.com Sales Manager / Penny DiGregorio PDiGregorio@YourObserver.com Digital Sales and Business Development Manager / Kathleen O’Hara, KOHara@YourObserver.com Senior Advertising Executive / Laura Ritter, LRitter@YourObserver.com Advertising Executives / Richeal Bair, RBair@YourObserver. com; Chrissy Guevera, CGuevara@ YourObserver.com; Beth Jacobson, BJacobson@YourObserver.com; Jennifer Kane, JKane@YourObserver.com; Honesty Mantkowski, HMantkowski@ YourObserver.com; Bob Lewis, BLewis@ YourObserver.com; Toni Perren, TPerren@YourObserver.com Classified Advertising Sales Executive / Audri Ferguson, AFerguson@ YourObserver.com Sales Operations Manager / Susan Leedom, SLeedom@YourObserver.com Sales Coordinator / Account Manager Emma Burke, EBurke@YourObserver. com; Lori Downey, LDowney@ YourObserver.com Tributes Coordinator/ Kristen Boothroyd, Tributes@YourObserver.com Director of Marketing / Robin Lankton, RLankton@YourObserver.com Director of Creative Services / Caleb Stanton, CStanton@YourObserver.com Creative Services Administrator / Marjorie Holloway MHolloway@YourObserver.com Advertising Graphic Designers / Luis Trujillo, Allison Wampole Digital Developer / Jason Camillo, JCamillo@YourObserver.com Director of Information Technology / Adam Quinlin, AQuinlin@YourObserver. com Chief Financial Officer / Laura Strickland, LStrickland@YourObserver. com Controller / Rafael Labrin, rlabrin@YourObserver.com Office and Accounting Coordinator / Donna Condon, DCondon@YourObserver. com

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

SIDE OF RANCH

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THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

9A

JAY HEATER

Don’t forget this Brain Health Initiative event

D

riving home on State Road 70, I encountered something scary that left me shaking.

I didn’t know where I

was.

For a long two seconds, I didn’t know if I was headed east or west or if I was headed to work, home or an assignment. Why was Walmart on my right, or why was Lena Road to my left?

I shook my head side to side, squinted a bit, tried to refocus.

What the heck was wrong with me?

Fortunately, not much.

Best-selling author Lisa Genova, a neuroscientist who has a doctorate from Harvard, was kind enough to give me an interview May 10 from her Cape Cod home in Massachusetts.

Genova, whose 2007 novel, “Still Alice,” led to a movie of the same name that in turn earned a Best Actress Oscar for Julianne Moore in 2015, is speaking at a special hybrid fundraiser (via Zoom from Cape Cod) May 18 in support of the Brain Health Scholars program.

Genova didn’t agree to an interview to discuss Jay’s fuzzy adventures on the highway. She loves the work being done by the Brain Health Initiative and especially its scholars program.

She calls those scholars “young ambassadors and young superheroes.” She said they can make

Courtesy photo

Best-selling author Lisa Genova will be a special guest in the Brain Health Initiative series.

brain health “sexy and current.”

She is so excited about the program that she might become a driving force as the scholars program moves forward.

But on this day, she didn’t mind discussing Jay’s fuzzy adventures, either.

“Normal or not normal? It’s like a game show,” she said with a laugh.

We went forward and talked about losing your sunglasses when they are on top of your head. We talked about forgetting an old girlfriend’s name and not remembering where you put

your car keys.

Normal. Normal. Normal.

She then described herself in fun, easy-to-understand terms that explains why she will make a wonderful guest for the Brain Health Initiative series. I was, indeed, having a conversation with a Harvard-educated neuroscientist, and I was laughing.

I’m used to the normal doctorspeak of “corpus callosum fibers are interconnected to blah, blah, blah.”

Genova is just what the doctor ordered for Brain Health Initiative. Whatever part of the brain she uses, she knows how to connect with all of us. I guess that’s why she sold more than 2.6 million copies of “Still Alice” and has other best-selling fiction books as well.

“She can help the community resonate with these concepts,” said Stephanie Peabody, a neuropsychologist who is the founder and executive director of Brain Health Initiative.

The fundraiser, which runs from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., is part of the Brain Health Initiative series and costs $100 for those who attend lunch at The Lake Club’s Grande Clubhouse or $50 for those who attend via Zoom.

For information or to reserve a space, go to BrainHealthInvitiative.org.

I’m not sure if she will play “normal or not normal” with her

audience, but I can guarantee she will be interesting.

She will discuss her new nonfiction book, “Remember: The Science of Memory and the Art of Forgetting,” in which she explores how memories are made and how we retrieve them.

After five fiction books built her audience on a worldwide scale, Genova can discuss her passion in a nonfiction book. Her fictional characters have dealt with neurological disorders.

Her fans have been asking about neurological disorders, and she would answer them one person at a time. “Remember” gives her the opportunity to answer many of those questions to a huge audience.

“I want to help people understand how memory works and why we forget,” she said. “I want them to know what they can do to support their brain.”

So how about that case of losing your keys? Genova said losing your keys is normal, but if you find them, and you don’t know what they are for, that could signal a problem.

Forgetting proper nouns is no big deal, she said. She said often we go to the “wrong neighborhood” when we try to remember a name. She gave an example of trying to think of the name of a famous surfer. Hmmm. Was it Lance? The brain takes you to the Lance Armstrong neighbor-

hood. Now you are thinking about cycling. Yikes. Wrong neighborhood.

Eventually, you come around to Laird Hamilton. It took awhile.

“Our brains are not designed to remember proper nouns,” she said.

Forgetting other words isn’t a problem, unless you are losing dozens of words a day. It might be time to get checked out.

She came back to my driving episode and noted that so much of our lives is routine, and we are on autopilot. We develop this entire choreography of our day, and we can drive all the way to work and not be paying attention to the actual driving.

She talked about her own experience.

“I regularly drive over the Sagamore Bridge [in Massachusetts]. It’s a ho-hum thing.

Then I am 10 to 15 miles over the bridge, and I am thinking, ‘Did I already cross it?’”

Yes, folks, I am normal.

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

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THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

Final salute to Myakka ‘icon’ DESIGNS CUSTOM CABINETRY

Celebration of Life held for Herrmann’s Royal Lipizzan Stallions matriarch.

JAY HEATER MANAGING EDITOR

I

t was, indeed, time for the Myakka City community to say goodbye to Herrmann’s Lipizzan Stallions matriarch Gabby Herrmann.

Herrmann’s family held a celebration of life service May 8 to honor her following her March 13 death at the age of 66. The services were held in May after the performance season had ended.

Approximately 150 friends and family members gathered to exchange stories and memories of Herrmann’s life. After those in attendance visited with one another, a 45-minute ceremony was held with the Rev. Vincent Clemente of the St. James Catholic Church of Lake Placid and Pastor Matt Curley of the United Methodist Church of Myakka presiding.

Clemente said Herrmann glorified God through her work, noting she was like the good shepherd with her great love and commitment for the horses and her ranch.

Curley said the Herrmann family, which he called devoted Catholics, were always supported of all the churches in Myakka.

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head the family business, told those in attendance that her mother was “a force of nature and a local icon.”

Longtime resident Marilyn Coker, who became Myakka City’s postmaster in 1962, told the crowd stories of Herrmann’s early life after she moved to Myakka City when she was 6. She recalled how in November 2010,

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THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

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File photo

Gabby Herrmann was called “a force of nature and a local icon.”

Herrmann agreed to a partnership with the Myakka City Historical Society to renovated the historic Myakka City School House.

Herrmann held 12 annual benefits to raise money toward that effort, and Coker said each one had a special theme and costumes.

“Everyone knew of her love and support of the Myakka City community, its churches and its businesses,” Coker said. “She was so generous in sharing her ranch with the community.”

To cap the service, McCullough released the Lipizzan stallion

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— Marilyn Coker

Argentos into the arena. Both McCullough and her daughter, Sydney, eventually went into the ring with Argentos.

Argentos was the last horse Herrmann had ridden.

Playing in the background was “Time to Say Goodbye” by Andrea Bocelli. It was the song that ended all of the Herrmann’s Lipizzan Stallions’ performances.

Those in attendance had the option of attending a buffet at the Methodist church. They filed away past a collection of photos that had been assembled by the family, including Herrmann’s husband, Jerry Caudill; her brother, Guido Herrmann; and McCullough.

In front of the display were the words: “Your wings were ready.

Our hearts were not.”

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“Everyone knew of her love and support of the Myakka City community, its churches and its businesses. She was so generous in sharing her ranch with the community.”

12A

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THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

Beth Jacobson Multi-Media Account Executive 8 Years with The Observer

Liz Ramos

Stacey Volpe, the administrative coordinator for Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy, and Rebecca Blitz, the nonprofit’s executive director, showcase some of the items EquiElite Boutique donated for the tack sale.

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SMART chance to meet herd Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy hosts open house to introduce people to the nonprofit and the animals that make it work.

LIZ RAMOS STAFF WRITER

Bubbles, Buttercup and Blossom, the three new chickens at Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy, will be ready to

welcome guests to the nonprofit for an open house May 22.

Horses, including Magic and Jazz, and Teddy, a donkey, will be excited to be surrounded by people.

“I’m looking forward to opening the gates and letting everybody see all the great things that we have to offer,” said Rebecca Blitz, the executive director of SMART. “You leave smiling. If you come not having a good day, you will leave having a good day.”

Blitz said the open house will give the nonprofit an opportu-

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Bubbles and Blossom are two of the new chickens at Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy.

nity to showcase its numerous programs, introduce people to the horses and give back to the community.

“I’m looking forward to bringing our volunteers who haven’t been here in a long time out to see our herd and have them get to know new donors and new volunteers,” Blitz said. “We’re letting people know we’re here because a lot of people don’t know we exist still.”

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Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy Open House When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 22 Where: Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy, 4640 County Road 675, Bradenton Cost: Free Highlights: Food trucks, tours, meet the herd, tack sale, silent auction and lesson demonstration More information: Call 322-2000, or visit SmartRiders.org.

sons at SMART work.

“A lot of people don’t know the involvement that comes with one therapy lesson,” Blitz said.

“It takes four people — two side walks, a lead instructor and a lead walker — so [the demonstration] is a great opportunity for everybody to see the value in riding therapy. It’s a team. You build camaraderie with the other volunteers, with the horse and the participant.”

Blitz said SMART needs about 16 volunteers per group lesson, and the nonprofit is in need of about 14 new volunteers.

“Once they meet us, you become part of our family, and it’s just a good place, it’s a good energy,” she said. “We can never have enough [volunteers] because there’s always something to do.”

Blitz said the open house will be a family-friendly event with a 50/50 raffle, a silent auction, a tack sale, food trucks and a bounce house.

All proceeds will go toward the nonprofit’s programming and services.

In April, SMART added two programs, Reins of Hope and a first responders program. Reins of Hope is geared toward cancer survivors while the first responders program is for firefighters, police officers and hospital workers.

“Financially, we’re still struggling,” Blitz said. “It was hard because the pandemic made us completely shut down, but I think the herd misses people as well.

It will be nice to have everyone back.”

The open house will also be an opportunity for people to tour the nonprofit’s facilities. SMART can now host weddings, birthday parties and other events.

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THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

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

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

Through their lens HARRY SAYER

IF YOU GO

STAFF WRITER

M

ay is National Photography Month, and Mara Torres, the owner of the Mara Art Studio + Gallery in the Rosemary District, thought there would be no better way to recognize the art form than with a photography-focused exhibition.

The work of eight photographers of varying styles and backgrounds from Florida and Puerto Rico is on display as part of “Through the Lens … Perspectives” that opened with a reception May 7.

Two of those photographers are Sarasota figures who have used their cameras to highlight human

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emotion and different forms of masculinity.

Torres started assembling the exhibit in January.

“I have a vision of what I want,” Torres said. “I started looking at photographers and their work to then put the pieces together to build the puzzle.”

His new photos show Black men carrying baskets and headdresses on their heads, typically a female custom in many cultures that he twisted into an idea showing the beauty and vulnerability of Black men.

“As a Haitian American, I want to touch back on [this culture],” Clark said. “There are portrayals on television and media of this idea of what the Black male is, and usually, it’s tough and aggressive. I was thinking about what is masculinity and what is vulnerability, and how can I show that so that they know that we too are humans and we have feelings?”

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

15A

BARBARA BANKS

Photos by Harry Sayer

Jesse Clark had friends pose as models for his photo gallery examining masculinity.

Clark made the headdresses himself — each individually designed with its own colors — and had three of his classmates serve as models.

With a background in dance and ballet that taught him to balance toughness and softness, Clark

hopes his photography shows his interest in vulnerability and fragility. Better yet, he’s happy to see it in a gallery. “I still feel young, and I’m in this gallery with a lot of professionals that have been working for years,” Clark said. “I kind of see this as sort of just the beginning.”

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Photographer Barbara Banks brought several pieces from her “Worker” series, which looks through a black-andwhite framing at the many workers who transformed the 1926 Sarasota High School building into the Sarasota Art Museum.

Torres contacted Banks about joining the exhibit because her portraits of workers highlight the oftenoverlooked human element that went into the museum.

“They’re overlooked, and they’re underappreciated,” Banks said. “It was probably one of the most meaningful projects I’ve ever done.”

Her work is a culmination of months as Banks bonded with many of the workers while taking thousands of photos at the site.

“I asked people, day after day, if they would mind if I took their portrait while they worked,” Banks said. “I just was so touched by the way they knew they were being seen. … I showed a genuine interest, and I genuinely did care.”

Courtesy photos

Barbara Banks spent months taking various photos of workers.

Barbara Banks

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YourObserver.com

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Take stand for kids by unmasking Raising babies and toddlers during the COVID-19 era is not for the faint of heart. I have two little girls — an intense and loquacious 3-and-a-half-yearold and a bold and mischievous 1-year-old, born just a month before lockdowns began.

Consider all of the questions a precocious 3-year-old asks, then multiply it by a factor of 10: “Mommy, why is the beach closed?”

“Mommy, why can’t I go to school?”

“Why does everybody wear masks on their face now?”

One day, her dad and I walked in on her playing pretend, spouting: “I’m a mask lady. Do what I say!”

As difficult as the questions are to answer, it’s even more troublesome to consider longterm effects of these unprecedented social changes on the youngest among us.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, children have borne an outsized burden. As time went on, the goal posts moved.

Although it was clear almost immediately that children were not significantly affected

by COVID-19, all of society’s once incessant talk about the importance of kids’ mental health immediately gave way to a refrain that “kids are resilient” and that children just needed to buck up for the sake of the vulnerable.

The past year has shown how little we, as a society, value our children’s well-being.

Children are not able to advocate for themselves. They don’t have unions, lobbyists or deep-

pocketed special interests. We cry out “Think of the children,” on issues from gun control to climate change to transgender rights.

The above examples are nebulous, or only affect small segments of society. The effects of lockdowns and masking, however, are widespread and happening now.

It’s time to give our children their lives back — and not by half-measures.

However, as a mother, citizen and someone who has dedicated her career to child welfare in Manatee County, I can say with confidence: Continuing to mask is harming our children. The psychological and educational effects of masking are obvious to anyone who cares to look.

We are blessed in Florida to live in a place where our leaders value freedom and personal choice. Earlier this month, Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran announced that masks would be optional in schools next year.

We, as individuals, need to go beyond that. As our governor stated, “Once you’ve had the vaccine, you’re immune, … so act immune.”

Civilized societies do not inflict likely harm on children for uncertain benefit to adults. With the advent of effective vaccines, we all now need to take a stand for kids’ well-being and drop the masks.

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MAY 13, 2021

5

— Braden River High’s Evan Dangler SEE PAGE 19A

PERFECT SHOT Mustangs senior Riley Simmons wins a state championship in the shot put.

RYAN KOHN SPORTS REPORTER

L 1

Lakewood Ranch High junior softball player Ella Coiner went 2-4 with a double, a home run and three RBIs on May 6 in the Mustangs’ 15-8 home win against Steinbrenner High.

2

The Out-of-Door Academy junior baseball player Carter Dierdorf went 1-2 with a home run and two RBIs on May 7 in the Thunder’s 4-1 home win against Evangelical Christian.

3

Jim Phillips, Andrzej Koplewski, Ira Robinson and David Dunderdale (18 under par) won the Men’s Pro Shop Buddy event (best ball scoring) May 8 at Palm Aire Country Club’s Lakes course.

4

Delores Andrew and Barb Costello (five under par) won the Nine Hole Women’s Golf Association Blind Partners event held May 6 at Palm Aire Country Club’s Lakes course.

5

Art Mann, Fred Bishop, Richard Finkel and Toby Morrison (89) won the Men’s Golf Association Best Ball event May 5 at University Park Country Club.

akewood Ranch High senior Riley Simmons, who brought home the school’s first state championship in the shot put May 8 at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville, knew the most important factor in her attempt to win the gold.

She needed to relax.

That wouldn’t be so easy because she entered the event May 8 at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville as the No. 1-ranked girl on the strength of her 44-feet, 4-inch toss earlier in the season. All the pressure of expectations were on her.

She also went into the event knowing she hadn’t competed on such a grand stage since 2019, when she finished eighth at a sophomore with a throw of 38 feet, 8.25 inches. Last year’s event was canceled due to the pandemic.

Finally, she had worked hard for two years for this moment, and all that time dreaming of winning the gold.

But when it came her time, Simmons unleashed a heave of 44 feet, 3.25 inches. It was 11 inches farther than silver medal winning Megan Hague of Niceville High.

After accepting her gold medal, Simmons credited a week’s worth of relaxation exercises with Lakewood Ranch High throws Coach Mark Stephens for putting her over the top. She felt no nerves when entering the circle and was full of confidence. She was, indeed, relaxed “We worked on visualization,” Stephens said. “Before her throws and between throws, she was to close her eyes and in her mind see herself rotating through the ring with the correct technique and tempo. It helps her tune out

Lakewood Ranch senior Riley Simmons fires off her shot put attempt.

SImmons would win the Class 4A event (44 feet, 3.25 inches).

Photos by Ryan Kohn

Lakewood Ranch junior Maya Bridgeford runs the first leg during the Class 4A girls 4x800 relay. The Mustangs earned the silver medal (9:15.87).

everything going on around her and stay in the moment.”

Simmons beamed as she held her gold medal. Her dream of winning a championship had come true.

“It feels just as good as I thought it would,” Simmons said

with a grin.

She also earned a silver medal in the discuss with a toss of 142 feet, 8 inches. Hague won the gold with a 147 feet, 4 inch effort.

Simmons’ effort wasn’t the only one of note for Lakewood Ranch High.

The Mustangs’ 4x800 girls relay team of juniors Maya Bridgeford, Ariana Majaro, Hailey Marston and Grace Marston came into the race seeded fourth in Class 4A (9:29.04) but blazed a season-best time of 9:15.87 to win the silver medal.

That boost in speed came in part because of a time trial the team held during practice in the week leading up to the event. The time trial would determine who would run in the relay, and everyone wanted a spot — including Bridgeford, who had not run an 800 race all season because she’s typically a shorter-distance runner. But she impressed coaches during the time trial and earned a spot on the state team. She ran the first leg of the race before making a seamless handoff to Majaro.

“I think it went pretty well [at

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Lakewood Ranch High’s top finishes at the 4A state track meet May 8 GIRLS 1 — Shot put, Riley Simmons (44 feet, 3.25 inches) 2 — Discus, Riley Simmons (142 feet, 8 inches); 4x800 girls relay team of juniors Maya Bridgeford, Ariana Majaro, Hailey Marston and Grace Marston (9:15.87) 4 — 1,600, Grace Marston (4:58.33) 6 — 3,200, Grace Marston (10:53.23) 9 — 400 meters, Maya Bridgeford (57.47); 3,200, Aurora Melzer (11:03.80) BOYS T3 — Pole vault, Eli Newman (14 feet, 3.25 inches) Braden River High’s top finishes at the 3A state track meet May 7 BOYS 4 — 100 meters, Josh Thomas (10.60); 100 meters, Miles Stephens (10.66) ODA’s top finishes at the 1A state track meet May 8 GIRLS 8 — Pole vault, Carina Fiorucci (9 feet, 4.25 inches) 9 — 400 meters, Saraiah Walkes (58.88) BOYS 5 — Pole vault, Tyler Beck (12 feet, 3.5 inches)

the state meet],” Bridgeford said, making her teammates laugh.

Bridgeford also finished ninth in the 400-meter race (57.47).

Grace Marston finished fourth in the 1,600-meter run (4:58.33) and sixth in the 3,200-meter run (10:53.23). Mustangs junior Aurora Melzer finished ninth in the 3,200-meter run (11:03.80).

The Mustangs girls team finished fifth in the overall standings.

Mustangs senior Eli Newman finished tied for third in the boys pole vault alongside Navarre High senior Talin Griffin, clearing a height of 14 feet, 3.25 inches.

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18A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

PROSE AND KOHN

RYAN KOHN

Pirates burst into sprint spotlight T

here’s no cooler superlative than World’s Fastest Man. I’ve always enjoyed watching the Olympics on TV, all the events, but only the 100-meter dash bestows that superlative on the winner.

It’s the all-out war of running.

Other events might require more strategy and a reliance on pacing, but the 100-meter dash is purely about speed and acceleration.

For a while now on the Florida high school level, we haven’t had any local boys runners who have caused a lot of excitement at the state meet in the 100 meters.

And entering this year’s Florida High School Athletic Association Track and Field Championships, it appeared things weren’t going to change.

No East County boys runner had finished in the top eight of the event since Braden River High opened in 2005, according to data from MileSplit.

Even if the results are expanded to include all Manatee County schools, Manatee High is the only school to consistently have athletes on the podium of the event.

East County runners have struggled in the sprints. Distance running? We’ve got you there. Lakewood Ranch High’s John Rivera put on a show when he won the 800 meters (1:53.16) and finished second in the 1,600

Photos by Ryan Kohn

Miles Stephens (fifth) and Josh Thomas (fourth) represented Braden River High well in the Class 3A 100-meter dash, finishing in 10.66 and 10.60 seconds respectively.

Braden River High senior Miles Stephens (10.66 seconds) finished fifth in the Class 3A boys 100-meter dash after entering the event seeded 14th.

meters (4:22.64) in 2017, for example.

When it comes to sprints, our area has been slow to compete.

Until now. Although they didn’t win the event, Braden River seniors Josh Thomas and Miles Stephens stood on the podium after the finals of the 100 meters. Thomas (10.60 seconds) and Stephens (10.66) finished fourth and fifth in the Class 3A 100 meter dash. To have two area runners earn medals in the event is encouraging.

It also was big news for Braden River High because Thomas and Stephens are the first Pirates to

make the finals of the event.

Thomas, who also played wide receiver on the school’s football team, had served notice. He was seeded third in the event after running a 10.54 at the team’s May 1 regional meet. This was his first season of track and field with a full offseason of training, and his work paid off.

Stephens’ run, though, came out of nowhere. He was seeded 14th entering the event after running a 10.90 at regionals. At the beginning of the year, cracking 11 seconds was a good run for him.

At the state championship

meet, Stephens was almost done before he began. He received a warning for a false start. Another would have disqualified him. He then bested his personal record by 1.3 seconds, a massive chunk of time in the 100-meter dash.

“I was anxious,” Stephens said.

“I thought I might not run that fast today. We had a four-hour drive. There was a lot of stress, a lot of time to think. But it turned out to be a successful day. I was lucky to be here at all. I’m a bit in shock, but it feels great.”

Thomas and Stephens said they improved by competing against each other in practice.

They didn’t go head to head at the state meet because the final was broken into two heats. If they had, maybe they could have pushed each other even more.

The two Pirates might not have brought home the high school equivalent of the World’s Fastest Man, but they were in the 3A conversation, and they made school history in the process.

Let’s hope their success encourages more East County boys runners to give the 100 meters a shot.

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

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

Evan Dangler is a junior linebacker on the Braden River High football team. Pirates Coach Curt Bradley said Dangler is projected to start at outside linebacker for Braden River in the fall. Dangler had 18 tackles in seven games for the Pirates in 2020.

When did you start playing football?

I started playing when I was 8 in Pop Warner leagues, but I only started taking it seriously when I got to high school.

What is the appeal to you?

It’s not a soft sport. You can take out your anger on people in a controlled way. You can hit people, but you’re not trying to hurt them, and you’re not going to get in trouble for it. I like that.

What is your best skill?

I never back down from a play. I am dedicated to making every tackle.

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19A

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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.

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Evan Dangler

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What are your goals for the upcoming season?

As a team, we want to go undefeated in the regular season.

After that, depending on our [playoff] bracket, I think we have a great chance to go deep.

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Weight room, weight room, weight room. It’s all about the weight room. I want to get as strong as possible for this season. Right now, I benchpress 285 pounds, I squat 475 pounds, and I power-clean 275 pounds.

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

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20A

MAY 13, 2021

Classifieds 13B Games 12B Real Estate 9B Weather 12B

YOUR NEIGHBORS

Tampa Bay Bucs Coach Bruce Arians visits with Celebration resident Frank Madia.

Photos by Harry Sayer

Jake Krug, Dick and Lorraine Vitale, Connor Krug and Terri Vitale enjoy the gala.

A $5 MILLION GALA W some big-time celebrities and honorees. On behalf of my team at Mary Kenealy Events and my wife, Lorraine, I can’t tell you how appreciative we are of so many people who help kids battling cancer.”

V Foundation CEO Shane Jacobson was thrilled with the effort.

“Our fight to achieve victory over pediatric cancer just took another big step forward,” Jacobson said in a release. “We deeply appreciate Dick Vitale’s passion for elevating resources in support of our youngest cancer patients and thank our honorees for their commitment to our mission. Tonight, our donors responded with impressive gifts, and we proved yet again that we are truly one team in our fight against cancer.”

The gala has now raised more than $40 million for pediatric cancer research.

Left: Guests took photos with the Vince Lombardi trophy.

Above: Guests came from all over, including Connecticut’s Kevin and Monica Neghandi.

— HARRY SAYER Pro wrestler Titus O’Neil joins Tampa Bay Bucs QB Kyle Trask and Jude Caraway.

354596-1

hile Lakewood Ranch’s Dick Vitale champions the effort to raise money for the V Foundation for Cancer Research, the 16th annual Dick Vitale Gala attracted many champions May 7 at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota.

Muffet McGraw, the Notre Dame women’s basketball coach; Dan Mullen, the Florida head football coach; and Bruce Pearl, the Auburn basketball coach, joined ESPN anchor Scott Van Pelt as honorees at the event. Joining them for the effort were Tampa Bay Buccaneers Coach Bruce Arians and former Notre Dame football Coach Lou Holtz.

The effort resulted in more than $5 million raised.

“I am ecstatic over the support we have received during this challenging year,” Vitale told the crowd.

“We are proud to have hosted

2B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

Great setting for volleyball

IMAGINE TOBACCO FREE... our community

G

ates Creek’s Chloe Adams and Mill Creek’s Jade Voorhees played volleyball for the first time during the Lakewood Ranch Community Activities offering of Kids Volleyball on April 24.

After an hour, Adams, 11, and Voorhees, 12, were able to pass the volleyball back and forth to each other seven times before the ball fell.

Adams and Voorhees, along with Central Park’s Aunders Lyon and Connor Biegel, who are both 7, learned the basics of volleyball including setting, passing and hitting during Kids Volleyball at Greenbrook Adventure Park.

Join us at the next

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Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smart phone.

Copy and paste this link to join meeting: https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetupWed, Sep 16, 2020 4:15 PM - 5:15 PM (EDT) join/19:meeting_MWRjMmJiNDQtY2VlNi00ODUxLThlOTYtZ Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smart phone.

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Gates Creek Chloe Adams, 11, practices serving the ball.

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Central Park’s Aunders Lyon, 7, listens as volleyball Coach Hayley Buchanan shows him where the ball should hit his arms, so he can have control.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

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Central Park’s Aunders Lyon and Connor Biegel, both 7; Mill Creek’s Jade Voorhees, 12; and Gates Creek’s Chloe Adams, 11, stand in line to practice serving the ball over the net.

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THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

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akewood Ranch’s Tresa Zumsteg grabbed a glass and toasted her friends for being at the Humane Society at Lakewood Ranch’s Diva and Dogs fashion show May 5.

Zumsteg said the fashion show was the first event she and her friends, Lakewood Ranch’s Sharyn Nassau, Lea Russell, Teresa Morris and Deb Krupp, have attended since the pandemic began last March.

“I have tears in my eyes to be out and supporting a good cause,” Zumsteg said.

They attended the fashion show, which was at Lakewood Ranch Country Club, to support the Humane Society as well as their friend Marlene Gavens, who was modeling clothing from Twist Boutique and SunBug in Venice during the fashion show.

Rosé welcomes guests to the Divas and Dogs fashion show.

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THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

5B

FAM I LY

The Divas and Dogs fashion show has a tropical theme. Flamingos were part of every table’s centerpiece.

Lakewood Ranch’s Donna and Dan Brierton finish walking through the ballroom as models to show clothing from Twist Boutique and SunBug in Venice.

|

Lakewood Ranch’s Lorraine Fox brings her purse with puppies on it to the Humane Society at Lakewood Ranch’s fashion show. “It looks like my dog,” Fox says about the dogs on her purse. “She tilts her head like that.”

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THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

COMMUNITY

BEST BET

THURSDAY, MAY 13

Primary Care for Adults

CASUAL CORNHOLE Begins at 9 a.m. at Bob Gardner Park, 2710 White Eagle Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. Lakewood Ranch Community Activities is hosting a casual cornhole league for those 18 and up. A fee of $25 covers all sessions. For more information or to register, go to MyLWR.com, or call 727-1505.

Your Health is Top of Mind

Sapna M. Rama, DO Internal Medicine Physician

FRIDAY, MAY 14

MOMMY AND ME Begins at 10 a.m. at the picnic pavilion at James Patton Park, 5725 White Eagle Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. The Mommy and Me play date is free to Lakewood Ranch residents and $10 for nonresidents. The event is for moms and their 3- to 5-yearolds. For more information, go to MyLWR.com.

Dr. Rama is a board-certified internal medicine physician. She treats adult patients, age 18 and older, at the recently opened Lakewood Ranch Primary Care.

Dr. Rama earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Lincoln Memorial University: DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine in Harrogate, Tenn. She completed her residency at Hackensack Meridian Health Palisades Medical Center, where she served as chief resident of internal medicine.

SATURDAY, MAY 15

CONCERT IN THE PARK Begins at 5:30 p.m. at Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota. The Pops Orchestra will perform at Nathan Benderson Park as part of its High Five Pop Up concert series.

Conductor Robyn Bell will lead the audience through a 60-minute show full of laughs, stories and light classical, Broadway, film and other popular music. Tickets are $30. Go to NathanBendersonPark.org for tickets and more information.

SATURDAY, MAY 15

LEARN TO FISH Begins at 10 a.m. at James Patton Park, 5725 White Eagle Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. The Lakewood Ranch Anglers Club and Lakewood Ranch Community Activities provide basic lessons on fishing, such as casting and knot-tying. For more information, go to MyLWR.com.

To schedule an appointment, book online at manateephysicianalliance.com or call 866-515-9777.

SUNDAY, MAY 16

MARKET AT LAKEWOOD RANCH Runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the parking lot at Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, 8330 Lakewood Ranch Blvd. The Market at Lakewood Ranch runs every Sunday through July. Vendors will be offering seafood, eggs, meats, dairy products, pastas, bakery goods, jams and pickles among other

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Nikki Retsema and Amber Svetik

items. For more information, go to MyLWR.com.

YOGA IN THE PARK Begins at 9 a.m. at Bob Gardner Park, 2710 White Eagle Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. The public is invited to participate in a free yoga workout at Bob Gardner Park.

The event is hosted by The Yoga Shack Florida. Bring your own mat and water bottle. Mats must be placed 6 feet apart. All participants are asked to follow social distancing guidelines. For more

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

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information or to register for the event, go to LakewoodRanch.com.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 19

BINGO Begins at 10 a.m. at the Greenbrook Adventure Park, 13010 Adventure Place, Lakewood Ranch. Lakewood Ranch Community Activities hosts Community Bingo every Wednesday. Bingo is for those 18 and up. Bingo will be held under the pavilion. For more information, go to MyLWR.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 20

SILVER SINGLES MEET Runs from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Grove, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch. Lakewood Ranch Community Activities is sponsoring a mixer for mature adults after several requests from the community for such an event.

Singles looking to interact with other Lakewood Ranch singles are invited to attend. Those planning to attend are asked to RSVP to info@LWRCA.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 22

TRIBUTE TO HEROES CONCERT Runs from 5-7 p.m. at Greenbrook Adventure Park, 13010 Adventure Place, Lakewood Ranch. With the cancellation of the Tribute to Heroes Parade due to the pandemic, Lakewood Ranch Community Activities has organized the Tribute to Heroes Concert featuring the rock ‘n’ roll band Whiskey Blind.

Proceeds from beer sales will benefit area veterans’ group that normally would have benefited from the parade. The concert is being limited to 500 people, so there is plenty of room to social distance. Tickets are available in advance by going to MyLWR.com.

Tickets are free for Lakewood

Ranch residents and $10 for nonresidents. Parking is free for veterans, and all others are asked to give a $5 donation that will go to veterans’ groups.

|

THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

LYMPHEDEMA

ADVERTISEMENT

AND VEIN DISEASE

OPEN HOUSE AND TACK SALE Runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at SMART, 4640 County Road 675, Bradenton. The Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy is hosting an open house and tack sale that will include tours of the grounds, a chance to meet the horses, a tack sale and auction, a raffle and a food truck. Find out more about SMART’s therapeutic horse programs and its summer camp programs that are open to all children. For more information, go to SMARTRiders.org.

SUNDAY, MAY 23

BARRE IN THE PARK Begins at 9 a.m. at Bob Gardner Park, 2710 White Eagle Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. The public is invited to participate in a free barre workout at Bob Gardner Park.

The event is hosted by Barre3.

Bring your own mat and water bottle. Mats must be placed 6 feet apart. All participants are asked to follow social distancing guidelines. For more information or to register for the event, go to LakewoodRanch.com.

By: Adam Phillips, D.O.

What is Lymphedema?

The lymphatic system protects the body against harmful bacteria and transports fluid from body tissues into the vascular system.

Lymph vessels are thin walled to absorb fluid, bacteria, and protein for transport to the lymph nodes which eliminate waste and bacteria.

Together, lymph vessels and nodes help maintain a healthy fluid balance.

FRIDAY, MAY 28 TO SUNDAY, MAY 30

NCAA ROWING NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS Begins each day at 8 a.m. at Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota. The NCAA Rowing Championships for Divisions 1, 2, 3 will be held at Nathan Benderson Park. For more information, go to NathanBendersonPark.org.

BLOCKAGE OF THE LYMPHATIC VESSELS LEADS TO FLUID RETENTION

Lymphedema occurs when there is impairment of the lymphatic system, which disrupts normal fluid transport. If the lymphatic system is overwhelmed, damaged, or blocked, chronic swelling can occur. Over time this swelling can cause thickening of the skin and recurrent skin infections (cellulitis). It is a permanent condition which worsens over time if not properly treated. There is no cure, but symptoms can be managed which improve the quality of life.

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Common symptoms include limb heaviness and fatigue, toenails that look like a ski jump, pitting edema, dry warm skin, and open venous ulcers.

How Can I Counteract Lymphedema?

Exercise is one of the first steps to improve lymphatic function and to improve fluid removal. Additional treatment can include manual lymphatic drainage, compression stockings, and pneumatic compression devices. Identifying underlying vein disease is one of the most important steps. The two diseases exist together, and you must treat the underlying vein disease in combination with lymphedema treatments for the best result.

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EARLY MEMORIAL DAY DEADLINES

Florida Lakes Vein Center offers appointments in Lakewood Ranch on Tuesdays & Thursdays 8am- 5pm.

JUNE 3RD EDITIONS Longboat & East County Observers Arts & Entertainment/Black Tie Space Reservation: 11am, Thursday, May 27 Materials Due: 3pm, Thursday, May 27

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9114 Town Center Pkwy | Suite 101 | Lakewood Ranch

7B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

BRADENTON 8499 Lindrick Lane 6 Beds 8/4 Baths 15,223 Sq. Ft. Stacy Haas 941-587-4359 A4475594 $10,850,000

SARASOTA 9224 Mcdaniel Lane 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,376 Sq. Ft. Linda Driggs & Sara Boudarga 941-374-2920 A4499483 $1,650,000

SARASOTA 3501 Founders Club Drive 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,836 Sq. Ft. Richard Hearn 941-313-1591 A4497661 $1,599,000

LIDO KEY 437 Cleveland Drive 2 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,774 Sq. Ft. Judy Nimz 941-374-0196 A4497923 $1,595,000

BRADENTON 524 Mast Drive 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,607 Sq. Ft. Sandi Dietrich 941-704-0697 A4499113 $1,175,000

BRADENTON 3608 W 54th Drive W J101 & J102 4 Beds 4 Baths 3,776 Sq. Ft. Leah Secondo 941-545-4430 A4497828 $850,000

OSPREY 3 Shoreland Drive 5 Beds 3 Baths 2,616 Sq. Ft. Marianne Lebar 941-650-0337 A4497737 $850,000

VENICE 13362 Verandi Street 4 Beds 4 Baths 3,697 Sq. Ft. Amy Tupper 941-413-6898 A4499477 $799,000

SARASOTA 707 S Gulfstream Avenue 205 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,320 Sq. Ft. Marci Mcfarland 941-961-3390 A4488641 $795,000

SARASOTA 235 Cocoanut Avenue 105B 2 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,320 Sq. Ft. Sandi Layfield & Michael Nink, PA 941-914-2807 A4496292 $759,000

SARASOTA 1151 Annie Laurie Lane 5 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,314 Sq. Ft. Drew Russell 941-993-3739 A4498976 $750,000

BRADENTON 3405 54th Drive W G101 4 Beds 3 Baths 3,572 Sq. Ft. Adam Cuffaro 941-812-0791 A4446022 $699,000

SARASOTA 4912 Hidden Oaks Trail 4 Beds 2/1 Baths 3,018 Sq. Ft. Kim Eskew 941-587-5999 A4499498 $679,000

OSPREY 5100 Jessie Harbor Drive 704 2 Beds 2 Baths 2,143 Sq. Ft. Kathleen Carbone P.A. 941-228-8429 A4497065 $675,000

OSPREY 1742 S Creek Lane 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 3,115 Sq. Ft. Stacy Hanan 941-266-0529 A4484659 $649,000

SARASOTA 1835 4th Street Tim Koons-McGee 941-320-7073 A4495690 $585,000

SARASOTA 1771 Ringling Boulevard PH105 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,483 Sq. Ft. Kiley Riccardi, P.a.

941-720-1147 A4497358 $470,000

PALMETTO 615 Riviera Dunes Way 205 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,696 Sq. Ft. Cheryl Roberts 941-266-1450 A4497161 $429,000

BRADENTON 1802 72nd Street W 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,428 Sq. Ft. Cheryl Roberts 941-266-1450 A4499072 $425,000

SARASOTA 4274 Riverwood Avenue 3 Beds 3 Baths 1,774 Sq. Ft. Patrick Doherty & Maureen Doherty 941-993-3160 A4499452 $399,000

BRADENTON 165 Wandering Wetlands Circle 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,677 Sq. Ft. Gregory Zies & Kathy Valente 941-779-3081 A4499166 $390,000

BRADENTON 2009 7th Avenue W 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,508 Sq. Ft. Lynne Callahan 941-720-3278 A4496646 $360,000

SARASOTA 5444 Champagne 77 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,596 Sq. Ft. David D'Angelo & Mike Bruno, PA 941-587-7268 A4495361 $359,000

PARRISH 4651 Summerlake Circle 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,865 Sq. Ft. Holly Winkle 941-907-9595 A4499435 $324,900

NORTH PORT/ VENICE 3720 W Price Boulevard 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,590 Sq. Ft. Linda Carlstrom 941-586-5191 A4499338 $324,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 7702 Lake Vista Court 302 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,762 Sq. Ft. Noelle Reynolds 941-320-4855 A4496708 $310,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 6342 Grand Oak Circle 204 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,346 Sq. Ft. Terri Riordan 941-441-6644 A4499421 $259,900

VENICE 625 Marcus Street 45 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,234 Sq. Ft. Susan Elkins & Priscilla Adams 941-374-6016 A4496381 $239,000

BRADENTON 921 16th Street W 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,280 Sq. Ft. Michael Habony 941-920-2494 A4498240 $199,000

SARASOTA 4728 Acorn Circle 5 Beds 5/1 Baths 5,625 Sq. Ft. Tina Ciaccio 941-685-8420 A4495157 $1,999,000

BRADENTON 541 Fore Drive 5 Beds 3/1 Baths 4,296 Sq. Ft. Debbie Vogler 941-705-3328 A4496407 $1,750,000

BRADENTON 20504 65th Avenue E 4 Beds 2/1 Baths 3,738 Sq. Ft. Aaron Corr & Leslie Emery 941-840-2346 A4489635 $1,699,000

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM 357404-1

8B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

ADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITOR

A

home in Concession topped all transactions in this week’s real estate. Jeff and Leigh Kints, of Bradenton, sold their home at 8439 Lindrick Lane to Charles and Beth Ann Riggs, of Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, for $4.25 million. Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, five-and-a-half baths, a pool and 6,082 square feet of living area. It sold for $3.15 million in 2019.

CONCESSION

John Cannon Homes Inc. sold the home at 8420 Lindrick Lane to Michael Hess, of Victor, New York, for $3.5 million. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 4,768 square feet of living area.

LORRAINE ROAD

Barry and Marsha Berson sold their home at 15720 Seaton Place to Jeffrey and Beth Davidson, of Birmingham, Michigan, for $755,000. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,443 square feet of living area. It sold for $556,000 in 2020.

Andrew and Karen Hertzfeld sold their home at 16532 Hillside Circle to Robert Mode and Debra Carpenter, of Bradenton, for $661,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,224 square feet of living area. It sold for $500,000 in 2018.

LAKE CLUB

KNIGHTSBRIDGE

ESPLANADE

Glenn Ogura and Sheila Plonowski, trustees, of Bradenton, sold the home at 4817 Benito Court to Robert and Adrienne Teitelbaum, of Freeport, for $1.15 million. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and 3,297 square feet of living area. It sold for $864,600 in 2019.

COUNTRY CLUB EAST

Marianne Scott Sargent and Edward Bonneau III, of Bradenton, sold their home at 7721 Cavendish Cove to James and Michele Kondrup, of Bradenton, for $1.07 million. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three-anda-half baths, a pool and 3,079 square feet of living area. It sold for $759,600 in 2019.

Shannon O’Neill and Dawn Capaldi, of Port Matilda, Pennsylvania, sold their home at 6923

APRIL 26-30

Stephen and Linda Kohl, of Roswell, Georgia, sold their home at 7235 Prestbury Circle to Geneil and Randall Roberts, of Bradenton, for $900,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,423 square feet of living area.

Carroll Louis Woods and Mary Ester Woods, of Vienna, Virginia, sold their home at 7134 Westhill Court to Michel Benstock, of Seminole, for $445,100. Built in 2014, it has two bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,794 square feet of living area. It sold for $330,000 in 2017.

William Alexander Aitchison and Maria Goretti Aitchison, of Sutton, Massachusetts, sold their home at 7979 Matera Court to David Jacobsen and Tracy Winkel, of Bradenton, for $1.53 million. Built in 2009, it has three bedrooms, three-anda-half baths, a pool and 2,933 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.15 million in 2016.

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

Devon Cove to Daniel and Betty Sica, of Trumbull, Connecticut, for $995,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, three-anda-half baths, a pool and 2,887 square feet of living area. It sold for $875,000 in 2020.

Alan Ward Reasoner and Theresa Kelly Reasoner, of Bradenton, sold a home and vacant land at 5106 and 5102 Lorraine Road to The Jill Centko Revocable Trust for $3.2 million. Built in 2007, it has five bedrooms, five baths, a pool and 7,493 square feet of living area.

Jeffrey and Sheryl Isaac, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their home at 16505 Baycross Drive to The Edwards Law Firm, trustee, for $2.51 million. Built in 2009, it has five bedrooms, four-anda-half baths, a pool and 5,400 square feet of living area.

9B

THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

REAL ESTATE

Concession home tops sales at $4.25 million

|

Lynghals Inc. sold the home at 7313 Barclay Court to Reuben and Sarah Ben-Aire, trustees, of University Park, for $1 million.

Built in 1999, it has four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and 3,570 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.1 million in 2007.

Photo courtesy of Michael Saunders

This Concession home at 8439 Lindrick Lane sold for $4.25 million. It has five bedrooms, five-and-a-half baths, a pool and 6,082 square feet of living area.

$758,900. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,715 square feet of living area.

Philip Showalter sold the home at 7726 US Open Loop to David Brisson, of Wayland, Massachusetts, for $756,600. Built in 2000, it has four bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 2,942 square feet of living area. It sold for $405,000 in 2009.

Stephen and Susan Bull, of Sorrento, sold their home at 12418

Thornhill Court to Christine Moore Green, of Lakewood Ranch, for $460,000. Built in 2008, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 2,021 square feet of living area. It sold for $396,700 in 2020.

COUNTRY MEADOWS

Ray Ramser, Shannon Murphy, Stephanie Magee, Christopher Miller, Dale Miller, Derek Miller SEE REAL ESTATE, PAGE 10B

In with the new SALES GALLERY OPEN

Longboat Key

HARBOUR WALK

Wesley Griswold and Jean Tze Chua, of Bradenton, sold their home at 595 Fore Drive to Nickolas Dee Draganov, of Bradenton, for $880,000. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,527 square feet of living area. It sold for $745,000 in 2019.

The Residences at the St. Regis | 941.213.3300 | From the $2,000,000’s | Call for appointment. SRResidencesLongboatKey.com

MOVE-IN READY

Downtown Sarasota

LAKEWOOD NATIONAL

Richard Craig Smith and Susan Diane Smith sold their home at 5540 Arnie Loop to Bradford and Nancy Dlouhy, of Bradenton, for $790,800. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,603 square feet of living area. It sold for $513,500 in 2017.

Risdon on 5th | 941.365.1414 | From the mid $500,000s | RisdonOn5th.com

NOW SELLING NEW PHASE

Northwest Bradenton

LANGLEY PARK

Michael Stevens and Betsy Shepard-Stevens, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their home at 6930 Langley Place to Paul Stine and Valeria Silva, of University Park, for $790,000. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, three-anda-half baths, a pool and 3,601 square feet of living area.

Palma Sola Bay Club | 941.216.7436 | From the high $400,000s | PalmaSolaBayClub.com

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

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

COUNTRY CLUB

Stephen Furry, of Carmel, Indiana, sold his home at 7215 Lake Forest Glen to Gary Slavin, trustee, of Lakewood Ranch, for

WWW.MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM/NEW-HOMES | 844.591.4333 | SARASOTA, FLORIDA Prices as of May 2021.

357323-1

Licensed Real Estate Broker

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

Real estate FROM PAGE 9B

HEARTFLOW®

OFFERS PRECISE VISUALIZATION OF CORONARY ARTERIES, IMPROVES PATIENT EXPERIENCE LAKEWOOD RANCH MEDICAL CENTER has a new choice for heart patients.

HeartFlow® Analysis is a first-ofits-kind, non-invasive diagnostic tool that provides cardiologists with more precise information to help diagnose and treat coronary artery disease (CAD), the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States.* INVASIVE VERSUS NON-INVASIVE TESTING “HeartFlow® Analysis offers greater accuracy than other noninvasive tools for CAD, helping to determine the best treatment approach for our patients,” says cardiologist David C. Buck, DO, FACC, of Bradenton Cardiology Center/Manatee Physician Alliance. “Historically, we have been faced with having to put the patient through invasive testing or using non-invasive tests that were not as reliable.”

Clinical trials have shown that HeartFlow® Analysis is an effective tool for determining with better accuracy whether a patient does or does not need to have a more invasive cardiac catheterization procedure to help restore blood flow to the heart.** HEARTFLOW® SCIENCE HeartFlow® combines engineering analysis methods and artificial intelligence techniques to bring a diagnosis into focus. The platform works with a standard non-invasive CT (computed tomography coronary angiogram) study. Once completed, the doctor sends the CT scan to HeartFlow, ® where a personalized digital, color-

and Kirby Miller sold their home at 607 147th Court NE to Larry Cecil Baker and Tina Kaye Baker, of Lebanon, Tennessee, for $675,000. Built in 2012, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,146 square feet of living area. It sold for $420,100 in 2012.

Thomas and Michelle Carlson, of St. Petersburg, sold their home at 6227 Burrowing Owl Cove to Daniel and Karen Branch, of Bradenton, for $422,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,363 square feet of living area. It sold for $292,800 in 2002.

DEL WEBB

MALLORY PARK

Deborah and William Davis, of Sarasota, sold their home at 16934 Winthrop Place to Ronald and Julienne Lentz, of Lakewood Ranch, for $660,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,488 square feet of living area. It sold for $536,100 in 2018.

By: Lakewood Ranch Medical Center Marketing Team

coded, 3D model of the patient’s coronary arteries is created, sent to the physician, and available to view on their desktop or mobile devices.

PHYSICIAN PATIENT COLLABORATION In turn, the patient receives concrete answers quickly, as the tool allows the physician to show the patient, in detail, what their anatomy looks like, right on the screen. Whether the physician learns that the patient’s coronary arteries look normal, or show mild disease, or if a more severe case, requiring intervention is indicated, the physician has an opportunity to go over very specific recommendations with the patient, therefore, helping to inspire and empower patients to make truly informed decisions.

As part of the Manatee Healthcare System, Lakewood Ranch Medical Center is among one of the first hospitals in our area to acquire HeartFlow® Analysis. Ask your provider if this is the right diagnostic tool for you. If you need a cardiologist, visit lwrmc.com/findadoctor or Call 941-748-2277.

Marco, of Lakewood Ranch, for $610,000. Built in 2013, it has five bedrooms, four-and-a-half baths and 3,705 square feet of living area.

Rick and Bernadette Keesler, of Savannah, Georgia, sold their home at 17703 Colebrook Circle to Gary and Marilyn Niedzwiecki, of Dyer, Indiana, for $638,000.

Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,488 square feet of living area. It sold for $555,200 in 2020.

Gary and Theresa Syvertsen, of Bradenton, sold their home at 16751 Blackwater Terrace to Frank and Susan Delgreco, of Bradenton, for $455,500. Built in 2018, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,964 square feet of living area. It sold for $404,900 in 2018.

GREENBROOK

The Chrostowski Family Ltd. Co. sold the home at 15115 Sundial Place to Leonard Franklin Tellone Jr. and Heather Ayres Guerin-Tellone, of Lakewood Ranch, for $650,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,809 square feet of living area. It sold for $510,500 in 2016.

DiVosta Homes LP sold the home at 11809 Hancock Drive to Nicholas Versetto III, of Bradenton, for $635,400. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,570 square feet of living area.

UNIVERSITY PARK

Barbara Lifsec, trustee, sold the home at 8010 Fairhaven Glen to Perry and Wendy Gould, of University Park, for $627,000. Built in 1994, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,189 square feet of living area. It sold for $70,400 in 1994.

HERITAGE HARBOUR

George and Gayleen Ousley, of Columbia, Missouri, sold their home at 8004 River Preserve Drive to Jerry and Catherine Eagan, of Bradenton, for $620,000. Built in 2008, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,575 square feet of living area. It sold for $490,000 in 2018.

Keith Edward Weatherford and Diana Rose D’Amato, of Bradenton, sold their home at 7006 Quiet Creek Drive to Opendoor Property Trust I for $410,200.

Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,006 square feet of living area. It sold for $276,900 in 2014.

ONLINE

Stanley and Ruth Brown, of Bradenton, sold their home at 14312 Sundial Place to David Michael Marco and Jaime Anne

See more transactions at YourObserver.com

DO IT EVERY DAY!

David Buck, DO, FACC. Sources: *American Heart Association; **Douglas, et al., Euro Heart J 2015

TONY SHANISE Owner

Manager

ROB GM

CONNOR Asst Manager

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

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

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

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355589-1

10B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

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THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

11B

Honorable run Lakewood Ranch woman runs 5K to honor her father.

LIZ RAMOS STAFF WRITER

Central Park’s Liz Gutierrez has completed seven half-marathons and 10 5Ks since 2016, and all of them have been in honor of her father, Joseph Zajac, who died after three open heart surgeries in 2018.

Gutierrez is running another 5K with at least 30 members of the Lakewood Ranch Running Club on May 22 at Bob Gardner Community Park in honor of Zajac.

The 5K will be a way for Gutierrez to virtually participate in the American Heart Association Wall Street Run and Heart Walk.

Gutierrez started running races in honor of her father in 2016, a year after Zajac had his first heart surgery.

“He was just one of those guys who made you feel like you were the most important person,” Gutierrez said.

When Gutierrez reached the finish line of one half-marathon, her father saw she wrote “4 Faj,” which was the family’s nickname for him, on her arm in eyeliner, and he cried.

“My dad was a urologist and put himself and his health on the back burner,” Gutierrez said. “He was so selfless. Not really caring so much about himself kind of resulted in him having to get open heart surgery and not taking the best care of himself. That’s

Courtesy photo

ABOUT LIZ GUTIERREZ Lives: Central Park Age: 27 Family: Husband, Anthony; 1-year-old son, AJ Why she runs: To honor her father, Joseph Zajac, who died after three open heart surgeries 7: Number of halfmarathons she’s run 10: Number of 5Ks she’s run

Joseph Zajac, Liz Gutierrez and Louis Zajac run in honor of their father, Joseph Zajac, during the American Heart Association Wall Street Run and Heart Walk in 2019.

what our message is, just living a healthier lifestyle, being active.”

In 2020, the American Heart Association Wall Street Run and Heart Walk was conducted virtually, so Gutierrez and her family participated. They had at least 60 people participating in the 5K, and they raised more than $6,000.

Dream HOMES do come TRUE! 356014-1

• Lakewood Ranch Specialist • Customer Service Focused

214 - 621 - 6128

Tracy Anderson

Tracy.Anderson@exprealty.com

SCHOOL ENDS. HUNGER BEGINS. Due to COVID-19, even more children in our community are at risk of summer hunger. You can help us keep them full until fall.

Make your gift by May 15 Match ends in 2 days Give today at

allfaithsfoodbank.org

941.379.6333 8171 Blaikie Ct. Sarasota, Florida 34240

357533-1

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Thank You to Our Lead Investors

12B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

FORECAST

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

THURSDAY, MAY 13 High: 87 Low: 70 Chance of rain: 16%

FRIDAY, MAY 14 High: 86 Low: 66 Chance of rain: 19%

SATURDAY, MAY 15 High: 89 Low: 68 Chance of rain: 6%

Gordon Silver captured this photo of a great blue heron eating a snake in Del Webb in Lakewood Ranch.

SUNRISE / SUNSET

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, May 13

6:42a 8:10p

Friday, May 14

6:41a

8:11p

Saturday, May 15

6:41a

8:11p

Sunday, May 16

6:40a

8:12p

Monday, May 17

6:40a

8:13p

Tuesday, May 18

6:39a

8:13p

Wednesday, May 19

6:39a

8:14p

MOON PHASES

June 2 Last

June 10 New

June 17 First

June 24 Full

RAINFALL Monday, May 3

0

Tuesday, May 4

0

SUNDAY, MAY 16

Wednesday, May 5

0

Thursday, May 6

0

High: 89 Low: 68 Chance of rain: 19%

Friday, May 7

0

Saturday, May 8

0

Sunday, May 9

0

*Rainfall totals from Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport

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

YEAR TO DATE:

MONTH TO DATE:

2021 8.82 in.

2021 0.00 in.

2020 11.89 in.

2020 0.55 in.

MANASOTA FLOORING INC 941.355.8437 | Bradenton

CROSSWORD

©2021 Universal Uclick

ACROSS 1 Mac alternatives 4 Seattle Storm, e.g.

8 Parody 13 Some CEOs’ degs.

17 Crow’s noise 18 Plummets 19 Broadway star McDonald 20 Pixar robot 21 *Get food ready for one’s H.S. equivalency exam?

24 Pueblo material 25 Martin the Gecko’s company 26 Leg day units 27 Scattered 29 Pancake eaten for din-

941.748.4679 | Venice

941.493.7441 | www.manasotaonline.com

36 Brady’s former bunch, informally 37 Common NASCAR sponsor 40 ___ v. Wade 41 See 60-Across 43 “Look before you leap,” e.g.

44 Headquartered (in) 46 Toxins 50 Billabong competitor 52 Get ready, informally 54 Computer whizzes 55 Lil ___ X 57 *What a sleepy H.S. senior might take?

59 Indeed.com or Monster 62 Lion’s pride?

63 Vulgar people 64 Bollywood’s home 65 Bawl 67 Large water pipes 68 Harvesting tools 71 Art on a temple, perhaps?

DOWN 74 ___ lightly (be cautious) 1 Main MD 78 Phonies 2 I Spy and 20 Questions 79 Scorekeepers’ marks 3 Honeybunch 81 Squid liquid 4 Stuffed shell?

83 Nwodim who portrays 5 Yellowstone herd Dionne Warwick on “SNL” 6 Selma’s state (Abbr.)

86 Suffix with “senior” 7 NYC arena 88 Free version of a fun app 8 Like begging puppies 89 Makes a scapegoat for 9 Gas dispensers 90 Spork point 10 Poetic tributes 93 Reign over 11 “... ___ lack thereof” 94 Smooch that preserves 12 Certain contractions lipstick note?

75 Acorn, for one 13 Coped 95 Really bothers 53 Child in a certain 76 Thor’s dad 14 *Flunking a coll.-level 98 Doll with a 2021 model blended family 77 Player of a low string studio class? that has vitiligo 56 Hoppy brews, briefly instrument 15 “The Sandbox” playwright 101 Scintilla 57 Marcie’s nickname for 80 “Hear ye!” shouter Edward 102 Rachel Maddow’s Peppermint Patty 82 Lather, ___, repeat 16 Early bloomers? network 58 Sixers legend 84 Goatee’s spot 18 iPhone-unlocking option 103 Upscale Honda 60 Greek letter that rhymes 85 Singer whose fans are 20 Peace’s counterpart 105 Ashen with 41-Down called Claymates 22 Coming down the ___ 108 “Have a Good Trip” drug 61 Rush around wildly 87 Some PrideFest letters 23 They clear whiteboards 109 Sagacious 63 Articles’ slants 91 Deplete 28 Powdery mineral 110 Chemistry particle 66 *Toast for aspiring docs? 92 *M.A. hopeful’s test, 29 Actress Bonet 113 The ___ (Boston nick69 Like some cows and when taken on a Utah body 30 Toasted breakfast treat name) vows of water’s shore?

114 First punch in a one-two 31 Climbing gear that a 70 Dealing with 96 Tony winner Stroker 115 Mystery in the sky, briefly boulderer eschews 72 Outburst from Scrooge 97 Personal website section 32 College party drinks 116 “Hamilton” star Phillipa 73 Lower your seat?

99 “That wasn’t true” 35 Pumpkin, for one 117 ___ poke (soccer kick)

STUDY BREAKS by Amanda Rafkin and Ross Trudeau; Edited by David Steinberg

ner, maybe 30 Uses mala beads 32 Arthur of “Maude” 33 Goes kaput 34 Louvre Pyramid architect 35 Duck, duck, ___ 36 Betrays at recess 38 “Nothing to ___ here!”

39 *Removed a score from one’s college app?

42 “Gift” for talking 45 “By yesterday!”

47 External 48 Dill, e.g.

49 “The Devil Wears ___” 51 What may end on a high

100 “Shucks!”

102 Goya’s “The Naked ___” 104 Lead-in to “Vegas” 105 Goody Two-shoes 106 Feature of this crossword 107 Wanda Maximoff, aka the ___ Witch 109 Have an eye-opening experience?

110 Stage remark 111 Deadens 112 “We’re only practicing,” and a hint to reading each starred answer 118 Plait 119 Ejects 120 “The game is ___!”

121 (Ow! My udder!)

122 Detective’s assignment 123 Follows orders 124 Prosperous period 125 Number of partners for a monogamist

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.

“UJUDNHWSN KRI ZKUXD WLC IZWDN -- XZ’I LKW NWY RDU. XA X LRIC’Z AXJU-AWWZ, X LWYBSC’Z HU LKW X RT.” IRHDXCR PRDVUCZUD

“GKN LJLNE GTVXHNL, IRLNL’P TA TXILNATIVJL YKHNPL KG TYIVKA. ...

DRLA EKH YKBL IK T NKTCOXKYM, ITML T CLIKHN.”

BTNE MTE TPR

Puzzle Two Clue: M equals K

Sarasota

Puzzle One Clue P equals C

349218-1

SAVE ON SELECT COLORS & STYLE

© 2021 NEA, Inc.

SUDOKU

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

©2021 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

05-13-21

Made for where you live. Here!

THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

RED PAGES INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888

Items Under $200

redpages@yourobserver.com • yourobserver.com/redpages

The East County Observer reserves the right to classify and edit copy, or to reject or cancel an advertisement at any time. Corrections after first insertion only. *All ads are subject to the approval of the Publisher. *It is the responsibility of the party placing any ad for publication in the East County Observer to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance with towncodes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property.

Items Under $200

Items Under $200 CHARLIE’S ANGELS trading cards from 1977. First set 1-55 plus stickers 1-10. $25 941-741-9727

stuff

ADVERTISE YOUR MERCHANDISE with the total value of all items $200 or less in this section for FREE! Limit 1 ad per month,15 words or less.

Price must be included next to each item. No commercial advertising.

Ad runs 2 consecutive weeks in 1 Observer.

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

Items Under $200

265 CD’S, variety of music.

Take all for $125. Authentic German Beer Stein, Pre WW2, etched, 1.2 L $75 941-753-5539

2013-2014 Ford Focus wheel $125 good condition, do not text. 941-879-7105

AVON WHITE wicker 2 shelf wall cabinet in box $25.

Concrete birdbath $45.

941-747-7183

CLUB CHAIR drexel heritage oversized, pale red color. $50 Matching ottoman $25 941-351-3166 CONCRETE DOLPHIN statue, 2 ft $70, Waterford paperweight $65, knee pillow $25, metal garden trellis $15 941-359-8460 FOR SALE Nepresso Espresso Machine $50 7" Digital Picture Frame $30 (201) 669-8331 HOOVER AND Shark hard floor cleaners, like new, $45 each, Total Vibration exercise machine $100 941-925-3084 LOVESEAT PLUSH, like new 6 1/2 ‘ picture available. $145 941-358-5313 PERFECT AA Citron gemstone rectangular 13.5mm x 10.5mm. $199 310-720-7285

HARD WORK deserves to be

SHOWTIME ROTISSERIE new in box $60 or OBO 941-7440404

Furnishings ELLO BEDROOM 6 piece queen set . Made of polished steel, glass and mirror, candlelight silver, dresser by O.B. Solie, call for details.

941-365-9295

Garage/ Moving/ Estate Sales MOVING SALE Rattan porch furniture, 2 chairs, loveseat, table, footstools. Metal outdoor loveseat.

7’ pre-lit Christmas tree and other items. Multiple framed wall pictures with nautical and Florida themes. 4 like new, Tommy Bahama beach chairs, 2 large table lamps, 12 lennox dinner plates with red/gold Christmas print. Like new Kitchenaid outdoor gas grill with a cover. Large antique copper fire extinguisher. 12 gold ball red glasses, 6 water, 6 juice. Large painted bird mural painted. Much more, reasonable proces or best offer.

Matching whirlpool washer/dryer. 941-383-6416

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

auto

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

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

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

SELL IT FAST!

Paint the town RED!

PLASTIC STORAGE containers - $3.00 to $6.00 each, like new, various sizes.

941-417-2771

DEADLINES: Classifieds - Monday at Noon

Advertise your business or service in the Observer

RED PAGES CALL TODAY 941-955-4888

Place Your Ad Online YourObserver.com/RedPages WE BUY cars. top $$ paid for your vehicles.

Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

CLEAN OUT YOUR GARAGE! CALL 941-955-4888

This week’s Crossword answers

RECOGNIZED 941-955-4888 Some are dreamers.

Some are talented.

GO BIG RAMS!

$ 75

I BUY Costume Jewelry & Vintage Clothing Buying large lots of clothing & jewelry from 1920-1970's. (978) 390-8803

have paid off. You’re graduating! We are unbelievably proud of you and know this is only the beginning of your success.

CHRIS HAWTHORNE

- Mom & Dad

Your hard work, dedication and discipline have paid off. You’re graduating! We are unbelievably proud of you and know this CHRISTINE JORDAN is only the beginning of your success.

2.75 GPA | University of S. Florida; Marketing

3.5 GPA | University of Florida; Engineering

LV19641_V2

RD PER CA

- Mom & Dad

Jewelry

YOU ARE Your hard work, dedication and discipline BOTH.

Merchandise Wanted

- Mom & Dad

JENNIFER WATSON

3.25 GPA | Florida State; Biochemistry

SENIOR LOOKING to purchase precious metals, diamonds, time pieces, coins, jewelry, antique and estate jewelry, and collectors plates.

Personal and confidential.

Please call Marc: 941-321-0707.

LET’S CELEBRATE THE CLASS OF 2021 Earning a high school diploma is an accomplishment worth celebrating.

Tell your graduating senior how proud you are of their

Sporting Goods

accomplishments with a personalized congratulatory card in The Observer.

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION: THURSDAY, MAY 27 DATE OF PUBLICATION: THURSDAY, JUNE 3 BEACH’N RIDES eBike Sales and Service We sell and repair electric Bicycles from our Shop at 12208 Cortez Road, W. in Cortez, Florida.

(941) 251-7916 www.beachnrides.com 356213-1

Order your Senior Shoutout: YourObserver.com/class-of-2021

©2021 Universal Uclick

You’re only cheating yourself.

ONLY

Some are dreamers.

Some are talented.

Some are YOU ARE BOTH. dreamers.

Some are talented.

peekers’ place

YOU ARE BOTH. Your hard work, dedication and discipline have paid off. You’re graduating!

We are unbelievably proud of you and know this is only the beginning of your success.

YourObserver.com/RedPages

DREAM

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “Everybody has their own story -- it’s who you are. If I wasn’t five-foot, I wouldn’t be who I am.”

Sabrina Carpenter Puzzle Two Solution: “For every failure, there’s an alternative course of action. ... When you come to a roadblock, take a detour.”

Mary Kay Ash

This week’s Sudoku answers

©2021 NEA, Inc.

Condos/Apts. for Rent OR RENT ANNA MARIA FO ISLAND UPDATED 5 STAR CONDO. Available May-November (monthly with multimonth discounts) millions $ waterview, first floor, 2br/2b, patio, walk to beach, pool, tennis, smoke free, boat slip available. marketreps@aol.com

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THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021

home services

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

real estate

14B

Cleaning

Painting

BRAZILIAN CLEANING Service by Maria. Residential.

Meticulous Cleaning. Excellent References. Free Estimates.

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

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.

www.braziliancleaningbymk.com

CLAUDIA C. Cleaning Services.

Experienced, dependable, and ready to begin!

Residential.

Excellent references.

941-773-6895.

CLEANING BY Brazilian Lady.

Meticulous, reliable, deep cleaning specialist. Residential.

Commercial. New Construction. 941-400-2866.

CLEAN OUT YOUR GARAGE!

Health Services

Aluminum

15% DISCOUNT FOR 4-WEEK RUN

SEARCH the

PLACE YOUR AD:

STOP SMOKING with auriculortherapy.

Established with local hospital for over 20 years. 941-7302782 or 727-831-2374

CALL 941-955-4888

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

Color background: $ 5 per week Ad border: as low as $3 per week

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

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

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

RED PAGES AD RATES

Call: 941-955-4888 Fax: 941-955-4808 Email: redpages@ yourobserver.com Online: yourobserver.com

Clock Repair

RED PAGES for great deals.

Visit YourObserver.com/RedPages

Construction

Christo’s Clock Repair 4630 5TH ST W BRADENTON

“IF IT DOESN’T TIC, TOC TO ME.”

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941-773-0875 • 941-932-5505

941.650.9790 YoderAluminum.com

Owner / Operator Insured

Visit our showroom

7262 55th Ave East, Bradenton, 34203

(941) 650-7758

Don Christo, Sr., Horologist

357650

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357648

CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT

Kitchen Renovations and Upgrades 357724

“Specializing in 6” Seamless Gutters”

Auto Service

Find anything in the RED PAGES | 941-955-4888

Doors

SELL YOUR CAR!

Computer

Sliding Glass Door Repair

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

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

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“FIX IT - DON’T REPLACE” New Deluxe Rollers Will Make Your Doors Roll Better Than Ever Call Mark 928-2263 proslidingglassdoorrepair.com Furniture Repair

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

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

Health

THE BEST This Doctor is Among

Rescreening & Repairs

GARDENS BY ALLISON

Eldridge Re-Screen

No Job is too Small!

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Roofing

Lawn Care

Bisson Roofing Inc.

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

Specializing in Reroofs and Repairs FREE Estimates • 30 Years Experience

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com

Call 941.358.2224 today to schedule a

Home Services

941-739-5102

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

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AFTER

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| scaperotta@aol.com

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Windows

Italian American Owned

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*Source: Verified Audit Circulation Annual Audit ending March 31, 2020. **Source: Alliance for Audited Media Annual Audit ending Dec. 31, 2019, does not include Venice and North Port in Sarasota or Charlotte counties. ***Source: Alliance for Audited Media, 24 months ending Dec. 31, 2019.

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ADVERTORIAL

DONATING FROM HER DOORSTEP You can give the gift of life with an “at-home” blood donation today.

It’s no secret that Heidi Kocur’s loyalty to SunCoast Blood Centers (SCBC), and the motivation behind her countless blood donations to help the community, runs deep. Her late husband William “Billy” Kocur, a battalion chief who bravely served the Sarasota County Fire Department for 25 years, died in a motorcycle accident back in 2017. Heidi, following the tragedy that shook her family, knows the importance of a blood donation – for someone in dire need, it’s the gift of life.

And Heidi is just steps away from her home when donating blood products.

SunCoast Blood Centers offers a Concierge Donor Program – a completely unique service not found among other blood banks – in which a mini-vehicle drives to your home or office for one-on-one interaction inside the bus scheduled by an appointment. Donors receive the safety and comfort of being parked in their driveway, in case of an emergency, while garnering the full attention and focus of their phlebotomist for a better experience.

The Concierge Donor Program, which actively seeks whole blood and double red blood cell contributions, expedites donors through the giving process compared to large blood mobile buses and fixed sites with wait lines as well. SunCoast Blood Centers collects, on average, six pints per day and roughly 100 monthly through the service. The Concierge Donor Program, stretching Sept. 1 to March 31, even received 644 pints of whole blood, convalescent plasma and double red blood cell donations.

That service, which is currently available four days a week, has certainly been convenient for Heidi and similar donors. The program has even offered a safe way to give blood, away from crowds, in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. And SunCoast Blood Centers plans to expand it further with service Monday through Saturday, previously limited because of staffing, and two to three small buses out in your neighborhood daily.

Join donors, like Heidi, and grant the gift of life to someone through SunCoast Blood Centers – and we’ll come to you.

To schedule your appointment today and have a mini-bus park in your front yard, call 844-972-6819 or email home@suncoastblood.org.

suncoastblood.org