East County Observer 9.16.21

E A ST COUNTY

Observer Lakewood Ranch’s weekly newspaper since 1998

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

Musical introduction.

PAGE 2B

•

FREE THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

VOLUME 23, NO. 44

YOUR TOWN

District aspires to generate arts funding If 1-mill ad valorem property tax is renewed, high school arts programs will be bolstered. PAGE 3A

Ryan Kohn

Flag football gets local grad award Shivanie Ghansiam, a 2021 Lakewood Ranch High School graduate, enjoyed her first Tampa Bay Buccaneers game Sept. 9 during the team’s season opener against the Dallas Cowboys.

Ghansiam attended the game as a Tampa Bay Buccaneers Girls in Football scholarship recipient.

The $5,000 will help Ghansiam, who was a member of Lakewood Ranch High’s flag football team for four years, further her education at the University of Florida.

This sand’s a handful 155 dump trucks deliver the goods in creating Waterside Place volleyball courts.

SEE PAGE 6A Jay Heater

Liz Ramos

Chris McComas drove hundreds of miles to find the right sand for the new Waterside Place volleyball courts in Lakewood Ranch.

Heroes welcome

As Rosie Breitwieser (above with Lt. Matthew Bertrand) passed out breakfast to deputies from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office on Sept. 11, she asked each one if they knew her grandson, Joshua Breitwieser, a detective for the Sheriff’s Office.

It was her way of connecting with the first responders who stopped by the retirement facility for its First Responders Appreciation Breakfast in remembrance of 9/11.

During the breakfast, a group of residents also sang “God Bless America” using sign language.

As the first responders left, they turned on their vehicles’ lights and sirens as a way of saying goodbye to residents.

A+E

SMART approach to volunteers Magnetic maestro.

SEE PAGE 14A

Jay Heater

Ilee Finocchiaro and Terri Arnold are finding ways to make a greater impact at SMART.

Riding therapy nonprofit works to improve skill base of its volunteers.

SEE PAGE 8A

2A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

CEO says The Players’ plans now firm Groundbreaking for a $26.5 million complex set for spring 2023.

JAY HEATER MANAGING EDITOR

W

ith businesses at Waterside Place at Lakewood Ranch preparing to open in October and November, the space reserved for The Players Centre for Performing Arts is empty except for a parking lot.

It was January 2018 when Managing Director Michelle Bianchi said, “They are not going to have the ‘missing tooth.’”

Bianchi was referring to the fear that if The Players’ fundraising drive fell flat, and either construction of the planned new theater at Waterside Place was delayed for a long time or canceled altogether, the resulting space would look like a “missing tooth.”

But Bianchi was confident the new theater would become a reality because The Players had sold its Sarasota theater for $9.5 million.

Considering The Players’ plan at the time to build a $10 million first phase of a $30 million complex, it was easy to understand that confidence.

In October, Waterside Place will begin to come to life, about six months later than the original plan. Considering the pandemic, the delay was minimal.

However, the delay for The

Jay Heater

William Skaggs, the CEO of The Players Centre for Performing Arts, stands in front of the theater’s future home at Waterside Place.

Players will be longer. Bianchi resigned in April 2018, and The Players’ other driving force, Artistic Director Jeffery Kin, will leave the nonprofit in the spring.

Nevertheless, CEO William Skaggs, who came aboard in September 2020, said that the project is going forward with more concrete plans.

Upon the arrival of Skaggs, whose previous job was as chief development and outreach coordinator for the Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center in Bowling Green, Kentucky, the new CEO said The Players had no planned groundbreaking date.

That has changed.

“As far as shovel in ground, we will break ground in spring of 2023,” Skaggs said. “Eleven

.com ouse

eh War

ture urni

F

The

months ago, there wasn’t a date.

You would ask, ‘What’s the plan?’

When I think about goals, … are they specific? Are they measurable? Are they obtainable? We needed to begin to take this vision and turn it into goals.”

With a construction time of about two years, The Players Centre for Performing Arts would be opening in 2025. That’s at least two years later than previous expectations.

Skaggs said the pandemic is responsible for the delay.

“When the pandemic hit, the (fundraising) campaign went dark, and that was reasonable,” Skaggs said. “We’ve made some good decisions throughout the pandemic, and we’ve tried to make decisions to keep our team,

our volunteers, our patrons, safe.

We’ve made decisions and have done a wonderful job containing costs. Organizationally, we are doing well.

“From the Waterside Place campaign perspective, moving through the last season was about month-to-month operations.

How do we continue to operate and take care of our people?”

Skaggs said the way people interact had to change during the pandemic, and it complicated The Players’ attempts to run a Center Stage Capital Campaign.

He said that campaign has been relaunched the past few months and that at this point the campaign is about educating the community about The Players and its future.

Late in 2020, The Players’ board and executives did a review of the overall plan. They considered the budget and made some changes.

When Skaggs arrived, the cost of a campaign to fund a theater ranged from $32 million to $35 million. That plan shifted to a $26.5 million theater.

“We want to create a space not to have someone say, ‘Look at this amazing royal, gorgeous space,’” Skaggs said. “We want them to say, ‘Look at this amazing experience.’”

Part of the plan involved organizing the theater’s resources.

A warehouse location on 10th Street in Sarasota had been purchased to store scenery items, costumes and other props. The Players had been leasing 4,500 square foot of space and no lon-

ger had to do so because it had its new 10,000 square foot storage area. The Players also realized it didn’t need to have a storage area within the walls of its new theater, so that area could be repurposed.

It helped drop the anticipated cost of the theater.

With the plan solidified, Skaggs can concentrate of the fundraising campaign.

“The people I have met in the last few months, normally I would have met in the first month (of my arrival),” he said.

He will be spreading his message about the theater.

“We will be in some ways a larger piece of community,” he said.

“This will not be solely about our shows but the vision is that multiple arts organizations will use this space on a regular basis. It’s about how we will provide value to the community. This area doesn’t have a facility like this.

“Something we want to convey is this is not about The Players Centre for Performing Arts but about community, about families, about individuals. To those lovers of arts and culture, this is not going to happen without them. This is a buy-in. People need to jump on board if they want this kind of thing for their community.”

He admits that there is “much, much to be done.” In order to break ground, he said The Players need to raise “a good amount” more than half the $26.5 million campaign goal. He said the current fundraising total toward the new theater is $6.3 million.

HOT BUYS! 12 MONTHS NO INTEREST *

PICK UP TODAY OR FREE DOOR DELIVERY TOMORROW** WE OFFER FULL-SERVICE DELIVERY AND SET-UP Need Help Shopping Online? Call 941-359-2255 F U R N I T U R E Entertain. Engage. Escape.

easy Snuggle into comfort. Pillow-top arms and cushioned bustle back. Also in java.

Versatile

styling Ladder back design with two-tone finish.

Includes table & 4 chairs.

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

599

$

99 SOFA

39999

$

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

5-PC

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

Regal

refinement Queen headboard, footboard, rails, dresser and mirror.

Classi

mattress

Queen 7” memory foam mattress.

All Sizes Available.

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

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

109999

$

29999

$

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

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

* On Purchases $300 or more with the Furniture Warehouse credit card made between September 16, 2021 and September 15, 2022. Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date if the promotional purchase is not paid in full within 12 months, by September 2022. Minimum Monthly Payments required. Offer applies to only single-receipt qualifying purchases. No interest will be charged on promo purchase and equal monthly payments are required equal to initial promo purchase amount divided equally by the number of months in promo period until promo is paid in full. The equal monthly payment will be rounded to the next highest whole dollar and may be higher than the minimum payment that would be required if the purchase was a non-promotional purchase. Regular account terms apply to non-promotional purchases. For new accounts: Purchase APR is 29.99%; Minimum Interest Charge is $2. Existing cardholders should see their credit card agreement for their applicable terms. Subject to credit approval. Furniture must be delivered within 90 days for all financing offers. All prices include Hot Buys or Coupon savings. Terms of promotions - Previous purchase excluded, cannot be combined with any other promotion or discount. Promotion offers exclude Hot Buys, floor models or clearance items, sales tax, furniture protection plans, warranty, delivery, or service charge. **Next Day Delivery or Pick Up pertains to in-stock merchandise.

360501-1

Rest

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

Braden River’s John Thomas Wright, Thomas Adamson and Gabe French perform with the Marching Band of Pirates during halftime.

File photos

District drums up arts support School district adds visual and performing arts to millage allocations.

LIZ RAMOS STAFF WRITER

T

he Lakewood Ranch High School theater department has been a thriving program with dozens of students each year eager to put on performances for the school and community.

During the pandemic, it became nearly impossible for the theater department to put on any productions due to COVID-19 health and safety protocols. The only production was a “Zoomsical,” in which a small portion of students performed virtually.

Because the School District of Manatee County doesn’t provide funding for the program and because the program made almost no revenue during the pandemic, department Director Roxane Caravan said her program is practically a startup this year.

“The hits we’ve taken in the arts in general is just astronomical,” Caravan said. “I feel like I’m starting all over again. Now in year 21 of having a pretty thriving theater program, in less than two years our programs have been destroyed because we haven’t had the ability to perform or fundraise.”

Lakewood Ranch High’s theater department, along with dozens of other K-12 visual and performing arts programs across the district, could begin to receive funding if voters choose to renew the district’s 1-mill ad valorem property tax referendum Nov. 2.

The millage increase was approved by voters in March 2018 with 51% of the vote. Money from the additional millage currently goes toward 30 additional minutes of daily instructional time, salaries for teachers and staff, charter schools, and enhancing career and technical education and STEM programs.

The school district decided to add visual and performing arts to

Braden River High School’s Natalie Valentine smiles while performing at the state band championship in 2019.

the millage to support the various arts programs throughout its 47 traditional schools. Visual and performing arts includes typical art classes, band, choir, orchestra, ceramics, digital arts, drawing, painting and photography.

Jeremiah Bowman, the district’s curriculum and instruction specialist for visual and performing arts, said an arts education task force, which is a committee made up of district personnel and community members, developed an arts implementation plan that would address needs of art programs in the schools.

The task force is hoping the millage can address six goals: to increase enrollment in arts programs and middle and high schools; to provide professional development for all arts teachers; to improve and upgrade classrooms and facilities; to create a marked pathway for aspiring student artists that would go through Manatee Elementary, Electa Arcotte Lee Magnet Middle School and Bayshore High School; to provide funding for teaching positions; and to purchase equipment and technology to help upgrade arts programs.

Bowman said the district would need to allocate at least $5 million per year to visual and performing arts programs to accomplish the

MILLAGE ALLOCATIONS Superintendent Cynthia Saunders said the district is expecting to receive about $45 million next year if the 1-mill property tax is renewed by voters Nov. 2.

The district would divide funding as follows: n 51% for salaries for instructional staff n 5% for paraprofessionals n 2% for nonbargaining positions n 6% for supervisory, administrative, managerial and professional employees n 7% for American Federation of State, County and Municipal employees n 13.3% for STEM, career and technical education, student supports, and visual and performing arts n 15.7% for charter schools

task force’s goals. “(The millage) would ensure that all schools across the district have more resources available to their students, so it’s not based on what a school can fundraise but what the district can supplement and provide,” Bowman said.

|

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

“We’re definitely at a watershed moment for the district. If these funds were made available, we could really amp up visual and performing arts programs and create more equitable programs across the district.”

Visual and performing arts teachers throughout East County are thrilled their programs could receive funding if the millage is renewed.

“It’s about time,” said Ricardo Robinson-Shinall, the theater and dance teacher at Braden River High School.

Robinson-Shinall said the district’s arts programs have lacked recognition in the area.

“It’s so sad because we have some of the most talented students in the arts in this area, and we have an area that’s so supportive of the arts.”

Robinson-Shinall said constantly having to worry about fundraising can be draining and takes away from the programs’ focus.

“It’s exhausting because instead of worrying about creating art and creating memories with students, the focus for half the year is: Are we going to be able to do this? How are we going to be able to pay for this?” RobinsonShinall said. “Taking that factor out of the equation and just allowing us to be able to create art and to be able to give kids those experiences would lift the weight of the world off me and the rest of the art teachers’ shoulders.”

Bowman said schools will receive funding based on need rather than each school getting the same amount. For example, Bowman said some elementary schools in the district don’t have art or music teachers while others do.

“Ideally, every secondary school would have a dedicated band, choir, orchestra, theater, dance and art teacher, and every elementary school would have a music and art teacher,” he said.

Teachers said funding from the millage could ease the financial burden on families for students to be able to participate in the programs. For example, a student in the marching band at Braden River High School pays $650 in band fees, and it costs $50 to $75 for a student to purchase a makeup kit to use in Lakewood Ranch High’s costume design and stage makeup class. Easing financial burden on students could lead to more students participating in programs.

“It’s all falling into the hands of students, and it’s not fair because then you’re doing things where people don’t participate because they essentially feel like they can’t afford to participate,” Caravan said. “It shouldn’t be that way.”

With funding from the millage, teachers will be able to hire others to assist with their programs. Cliff Dawson, Braden River High’s director of bands, said that although he knows how to play every instrument in the band, he’d love to hire specialists for certain instruments to elevate students’ education.

Robinson-Shinall and Caravan hire choreographers, technicians and musicians to produce a musical each year. Funding from the millage could cover the costs rather than the schools having to fundraise.

Teachers would also like to use funding to take students on field trips that would provide new opportunities to enrich their education.

“Strong arts programs equals strong schools,” Bowman said.

“The goal of the referendum for visual and performing arts is to create inclusive, diverse places for our students to feel at home and for our teachers to be supported.”

3A

BY THE NUMBERS Visual and performing arts programs have several needs throughout the district, whether it’s upgrading equipment, purchasing supplies or trying to ease the financial burden on students and their families. Here are some examples:

$5 MILLION

Approximate amount needed for visual and performing arts programs throughout the school district

$52,000

Cost of basic art supplies for the district’s 34 elementary schools

$650

Cost to the student to be in the marching band at Braden River High School

$80-$100

Cost to the district to repair an instrument

$20,000-$25,000 Cost out of fundraising for Lakewood Ranch High School to produce a musical

$50-$75

Cost to a student for a makeup kit to use in Lakewood Ranch High School’s costume design and stage makeup class

ABOUT THE TAX Voters approved the School District of Manatee County’s ad valorem 1-mill property tax in March 2018 with 51% of the vote. The tax is set to expire June 30, 2022.

A special election to vote on the continuation of the millage will be held Nov. 2. If approved, the additional millage would start July 1, 2022, and expire June 30, 2025.

Future additional millage votes will take place during presidential elections.

The district’s 1-mill property tax is used for: n 30 minutes of additional instructional time daily; n Salaries for teachers and staff; n Enhancing career and technical education and STEM programs; and n Charter schools.

If approved, the district’s 1-mill ad valorem millage tax would also be used to fund visual and performing arts.

4A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

AIR CONDITIONING • APPLIANCES • PLUMBING • ELECTRICAL

BADGER BOB’S

IS ALWAYS BETTER BY THE NUMBERS A million things can go wrong with your home systems, but it takes just one call to get your A/C, plumbing, appliance and electrical running right. With Badger Bob’s, you can expect exceptional service, special offers and promotions to save you money, and a guarantee of a job well done… at any time, every time.

One Call Really Does it All – 941.777.2004

BADGER BOB’S NEW A/C GUARANTEE

0%

Financing for 60 months!*

10-Year Warranty

Photos by Jay Heater

East Manatee Fire Rescue positions the huge American flag over Lakewood Main Street before Day of Remembrance.

Together again Lakewood Ranch unites to remember 9/11.

JAY HEATER MANAGING EDITOR

O

n the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, Sarasota’s Erika Miller walked in front of hundreds of people attending Day of Remembrance at Main Street

WE HAVE MOVED!

on Parts & Labor*

10-Year

NEW LOCATION! 5460-B 63rd St East, Bradenton, FL 34203

Maintenance Plan

Located off SR70 across from Taco Bell

*Restrictions apply.

349079-1

IT ALL ADDS UP TO BETTER

SERVICE, BETTER PRICES & A BETTER EXPERIENCE… ONLY WITH

Now Accepting New Patients

We Treat the Whole Family!

• School and Sports Physicals • School Vaccinations • Flu & Pneumonia Shots • In-office Blood Testing • Treatment for Allergies • Immunizations for Hep A, Hep B & T dap

CALL TODAY FOR AN APPOINTMENT

• Telemed Services • Cool Sculpting

MARY J. MOTT, MPAS, PA-C Adult & Family Care Physician Assistant Specializing in Allergy & Asthma

OSCAR ESPINOSA, MD Family Healthcare Physician, Minor Office Surgery (Habla Español)

941.896.3900 | 941.896.4884

Emergency Service

BADGERBOBS.COM

License #: CFC1427129, CAC1815977, EC13009294

WE CARE ABOUT YOU! Helping You Stay Healthy & Safe!

363386-1

24/ 7

941.777.2004

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

at Lakewood Ranch to sing the national anthem.

She wasn’t alone.

Almost every voice in the crowd joined her from the first word of “The Star-Spangled Banner” to the last. People were proud, and they cried.

East County Observer Associate Publisher Lori Ruth told the crowd the event was put together to honor our first responders who served during the attacks, as well as the servicemen and servicewomen who defended our country in the aftermath.

Perhaps she explained it best by saying, “Americans were at their very best on the very worst day.”

Retired New York City firefighter Steve Lubrino, who survived the collapse of the World Trade Center towers, told the crowd about the experience. He said that while people refer to him as a hero, the heroes to him were those who didn’t come home.

He was almost killed in the collapse of the north tower.

“I went to the right,” he said of his attempt to get away from the building. “The people who went to the left are not here today.”

He fought back tears as he noted two of his best friends, Mike Carlo and Gene Whelan, couldn’t be with him at Day of Remembrance.

They were fellow firefighters who died in the collapse of the towers.

“I thank everyone for coming down today,” he told the crowd.

“From the bottom of my heart, God Bless America.”

Manatee County Commissioner Vanessa Baugh spoke to the crowd as well, saying she was impressed by the big turnout.

“We remember that day,” Baugh said. “And it’s important our younger generation knows about that day.”

The Brew Crew running club of Lakewood Ranch, which raises money for the Warrior Reunion Foundation, is made up of (back row) Brandon Linder, Jeff Coopes, Rob Lange, Chris LeBlanc, (front row) Ann Drummond, Darcy Crum, Coreen Benham and Patty LeBlanc.

|

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

Hunter McGrath Atno, a 12-year-old Mona Jain Middle School seventh grader, presents the colors aboard Hormiga.

SG

Lakewood Ranch’s Brenda Sopcich brought her two children, 6-year-old Blake and 4-year-old Brielle, to the event.

“We loved it,” she said. “It was very moving.”

She said her children will know about 9/11 when they are adults.

“Blake told me everything he learned (about 9/11) in school yesterday,” she said.

Lakewood Ranch’s Hunter McGrath Atno, a 12-year-old student at Mona Jain Middle School, presented the colors at the ceremony aboard Hormiga, a polo horse. She said she has learned a lot about 9/11 at school and was pleased to participate at the ceremony. She said it was right to honor all the first responders.

“They’re awesome,” she said.

“They save lives.”

Behind those who spoke at the event was a blackboard monument that was designed by Fawley Bryant Architecture and built

by Willis Smith Construction and donated to the event. The 4-by8-foot block, which is 8-foot high, had blackboards on all four sides so that people could write their memories and thoughts about 9/11. Almost every inch of space on the blackboards was full.

Before the ceremony could end, East County Fire Rescue received a call, and three firefighters ran to the parking lot to board truck 641.

They hurried into their protective gear and pulled out of the parking lot, the emergency lights flashing.

They were off to help.

Above: Retired New York City firefighter Steve Lubrino gets a standing ovation as he approaches the podium to speak at Day of Remembrance in Lakewood Ranch.

Left: Sarasota’s Erika Miller sings the national anthem in front of the specially designed block to record memories and thoughts of 9/11 at Main Street at Lakewood Ranch.

S TAC Y H A A S 941.587.4359

Your Home. Your Future. My Commitment.

UNDER CONTRACT

UNDER CONTRACT

8499 LINDRICK LN THE CONCESSION 6BR | 12BA | 15,223 SQFT | $10,850,000

8456 LINDRICK LN THE CONCESSION 4BR, 4.5BA | 4,369 SQFT | $3,100,000

15306 37TH CT E TWIN RIVERS 4BR, 4.5BA | 4,681 SQFT | $1,250,000

SOLD

SOLD

SG 517 MIMOSA CT COPPERLEFE REPRESENTED BUYERS | $565,000

SCAN THE QR CODE

for a FREE home valuation

6135 27TH CT E BOUGAINVILLEA PLACE REPRESENTED BUYERS | $382,500 Licensed Real Estate Professionals

359776-1

S TAC Y H A A S StacyHaas.com

StacyHaas@michaelsaunders.com

5A

#1 BROKER

8325 Lakewood Ranch Blvd | Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202

6A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

Volleyball pearl in the sand Six courts at Waterside Place change the game for local volleyball players.

JAY HEATER MANAGING EDITOR

T

he pressure was on Chris McComas, and not so much the sand on which he was jumping.

Chris and Jessi McComas own MVP Sports and Social, which provides the Sarasota and Manatee area with plenty of social and sports activities.

Chris McComas also develops programming for Lakewood Ranch Community Activities.

So when Schroeder-Manatee Ranch began building a six-court sand volleyball complex at its Waterside Place restaurant and entertainment hub in Lakewood Ranch, McComas was asked to design the facility.

McComas took the job seriously.

Of course, certain parts of that task were defined. The courts are approximately 60 feet long by 30 feet wide. The nets are 32 feet apart. Netting would be needed to keep spikes and stray shots out of the lake that surrounds the courts.

The sand? That was another story.

Serious sand volleyball players

SET FOR VOLLEYBALL What: Six-court sand volleyball complex at Waterside Place’s 8-acre island park Where they found the sand: The Witherspoon Mine (Vulcan Materials) in Moore Haven Name of sand: 304 topdressing sand How much: 155 dump truck loads carrying 18 yards each Weight of sand in complex: 3,800 tons

like soft sand because they often are diving for shots.

“But not all of us are finely tuned athletes,” McComas said.

“You can call any old sand place, and they will say we have ‘beach sand.’ But that soft sand is for elite players. For a novice, the legs might not be what they used to be. You need compaction so you can run.”

MVP Sports and Social currently has 1,400 people competing in all activities and sports. Of

e c n e i r e

E

those, 600 play sand volleyball.

Those players run from those who are learning the game to the most elite players. McComas sees it all. He knew he couldn’t call any old sand place.

He began driving to sand mines around Florida, driving more than two hours a couple times. He was looking for that perfect combination of soft and compact sand. He would feel the sand. No good.

The search went on for months.

He finally heard of some promising sand. He ordered a truckload (18 yards of sand) to be delivered.

He needed to test it out himself.

Again, no good.

He finally heard of another sand that was promising. Another truckload, this time from the Witherspoon Mine in Moore Haven was delivered.

McComas could feel a little

pressure. Bringing in a truckload of sand isn’t cheap. He buried his feet in the sand to feel its playability. He jumped up and down.

“I was thinking, ‘Please be right,’” he said.

It was the real deal in terms of finding the right mix.

More than 150 dump trucks delivered 3,800 tons of sand to the site. With the posts planted, the nets ready to hang and the sand dumped 18 inches deep throughout, the complex is ready for its anticipated Sept. 22 opening.

McComas said the lighting might not be in place for any scheduled night activity, but day action should be cleared to go.

He said it will be a boon for the area.

“This always was a big deal,” McComas said. “Here’s why: Basically, we are the region’s

only Y OPHTHALMOLOGY

R A N I D

R O A R XT

p x E

Jay Heater

Chris McComas designed the sand volleyball complex at Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch. He says finding the right sand to fit the different level of players was a huge challenge.

largest network of sand volleyball players of all abilities. We’ve been held back (by a lack of courts).”

MVP Sports and Social has held leagues at Adventure Park and Summerfield Park in Lakewood Ranch and at Tom Bennett Park and Caddy’s in Bradenton.

But that amounts to five courts at four sites. Now they will have six courts all at the same place.

“We can do a lot more concurrent programming,” said Keith Pandeloglou, the executive director of Lakewood Ranch Community Activities. “With one court, you can’t do that.”

Pandeloglou said the courts will be considered a community park and will be accessible to the public when not being used for regular programming.

“This is huge for the community,” McComas said. “I’ve been sold out (in my volleyball leagues) since 2018.”

McComas said he sent out an email Aug. 31 alerting people that volleyball league sign ups were beginning. Within 72 hours, he had 40 teams sign up for play. In the past, he couldn’t have accepted more than 32 teams.

He said it is also a huge bonus that Waterside Place’s restaurants and pubs are a short walk away.

“People are excited to come to this location,” he said. “Anyone can walk across the bridge and have a beer.”

Monaca Onstad of Lakewood Ranch Communities said the courts add to the Waterside Place identity.

“There has long been a demand for lighted sand volleyball courts,” she said. “These courts are an important aspect of the overall experience that we are creating at Waterside Place — a more active nightlife in Lakewood Ranch.”

The

PRACTICE

in Lakewood Ranch.

AT

Trust your eyecare to our board certified physicians.

Murray Friedberg, M.D. Robert Edelman, M.D. Scott Silverman, M.D. Robert Sambursky, M.D. Pooja Khator, M.D. Allison Menezes, M.D. Jeffrey Davis, M.D. Jody Abrams, M.D. Paul Brannan, M.D. Garry Condon, M.D. Selina Lin, M.D. Philip Ames, M.D.

363278-1

ONE LOCATION ENDLESS EXPERIENCES

ringling.org

Comprehensive Eye Exams Cataract Surgery Advanced Lens Implants Glaucoma Care Macular Degeneration LASIK Surgery Pediatric Eye Care Neuro-Ophthalmology Dry Eye Treatment Diabetic Eye Care Oculoplastic Surgery 6310 Health Pkwy., Ste. 340 • Lakewood Ranch 217 Manatee Ave. E. • Bradenton 1427 S. Tamiami Trail • Sarasota

CoastalEye.com • 941-748-1818 • Most Insurance Plans Welcomed 360831-1

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

7A

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

Beauty is our Business How often can you say WOW?! The staff made my experience a real pleasure. They took the time to explain everything and really cared, took all precautions, facility was immaculate, and overall, A+ rating. Thank you Bowtique!!

- Penny M.

Excellent service, Excellent staff, Very clean relaxing environment! I will be back soon!

Thank you for making my first experience a great one!

- Andrea R.

I’ve never had any experience with fillers, ‘my practitioner’ was very nice and comforting during my lip fillers. I will be going back!

- Noelle B

3 Areas of

(For Forehead,

(For Forehead,

Frown Lines and Crow’s Feet)

Frown Lines and Crow’s Feet)

10

$

per unit

(Minimum purchase 30 units)

397

$

(For Cheeks)

449

$

(For Lips and Lip Lines)

499

$

Per Filler Syringe

Per Filler Syringe

(For Smile Lines)

549

$

Per Filler Syringe

$100 DEPOSIT REQUIRED AT BOOKING Available while supplies last. Must mention ad to receive promotion.Can not combine with any other discount. All sales final. No refunds.

CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENTS!

www.bowtiquemedspa.com

362749-1

SARASOTA | 6118 S TAMIAMI TRAIL | 941.360.BTOX (2869) LAKEWOOD RANCH | 6277 LAKE OSPREY DRIVE | 941.359.BTOX (2869) MON/TUE/TH/FRI: 10A-5P | ALTERNATE WED/SAT: 10A-4P

8A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

“I see them go from fearful to empowered. Horses are the key.

They do not want to open up, but to watch them with the horse, they are different.”

— Ilee Finocchiaro

EAST COUNTY

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

Friedrich Hayek

Jay Heater

Daila Lybarger and Lisa Morningstar are trying to build a talented volunteer base at SMART.

REWARDING RIDE SMART volunteers say their added skills have increased their rewarding moments.

JAY HEATER | MANAGING EDITOR

I

t was only two words.

Two very important and

emotional words to Lake-

wood Ranch’s Terri Arnold, a volunteer at East County’s Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy.

Arnold was trying to explain some of her best moments in her six years as a volunteer at SMART, which has a mission of providing therapeutic horse-related services to children and adults.

In accomplishing that mission, Arnold said she has worked with people of all levels of physical and cognitive abilities. She then talked about helping a person who was nonverbal.

“So when you hear that person say ‘Walk on’ to the horse .…”

Arnold just paused and smiled.

“I think a lot of people don’t realize the horse-human connection and how that works,” she said. “When you see that connection, and the difference it makes, it’s special.”

She said working with the horses makes some more confident.

“All of a sudden they make eye contact with you,” Arnold said.

“It’s rewarding.”

Arnold hopes to have more rewarding moments by training to become a certified therapeutic riding instructor after already having earned the designation as an equine specialist in mental health and learning a year ago.

At 69, it wasn’t enough for Arnold to just be a “master poop scooper” and a SMART board member.

Now she has even more special moments, such as when the mother of a 40-year-old client told her that interacting with the horses at SMART was the only thing that the client would do independently.

“Having a relationship with a horse can help them with human relationships,” Arnold said. “And it sets boundaries.”

Punta Gorda’s Ilee Finocchiaro, 55, has been a equine specialist in mental health and learning for

a year and has also earned certification as a therapeutic riding instructor. As a volunteer for seven years, she wanted to have a greater impact at SMART outside of being a training coordinator for volunteers.

She said one of her most rewarding experiences is working with victims of sex trafficking.

“They are so beaten down, and they have lost confidence and trust in people,” Finocchiaro said. “I see them go from fearful to empowered. Horses are the key.

They do not want to open up, but to watch them with the horse, they are different.”

SMART is hoping to bring in more volunteers like Finocchiaro and Arnold who are willing to become therapeutic riding instructors and equine specialists in mental health and learning.

North Port’s Lisa Morningstar, 57, hopes to help SMART do just that.

Morningstar, who has worked on contract for seven months at SMART as a mentor, trains volunteers to have a greater impact. She sets up Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship standards and teaches volunteers how to follow them. She said her ultimate goal is to have SMART volunteers set up PATH programs of their own.

Morningstar said volunteers do need to have some horse knowledge and understanding to be an effective therapeutic riding instructors or equine specialists.

“They also need people experience,” she said. “This is a daunting task.”

Morningstar stressed that the volunteer role is not of that of a therapist.

“We put the attention back on the horse,” she said.

In turn, she wants volunteers to understand where they were successful in helping the clients and then build on it.

Morningstar was asked if it could be a disheartening task.

“Regardless of the challenges, (the clients) can progress and learn riding skills,” she said.

Venice’s Daila Lybarger, 48, is an equine specialist with the American Quarter Horse Association who is trying to help SMART build its program and strengthen its volunteer base.

She said she spends her drive each day “planning, thinking and visualizing” ways the volunteers can make a great impact.

For her, she said, a good day is working with the veterans groups.

She said those veterans have suffered varying levels of trauma, and she enjoys sharing her knowledge of horses with them.

She said it is an experience that can be life changing.

If Lybarger is successful in increasing the abilities of the volunteer base, as well as the overall number of volunteers who have obtained more skills, more people will be able to take advantage of SMART’s services.

She said volunteers need a good work ethic to achieve status as an equine specialist in mental health and learning or a certification as a therapeutic riding instructor.

For information on how to volunteer at SMART or more about the certifications, go to SMARTriders.org, or call 322-2000.

“Road to Serfdom,” 1944

Publisher and President / Emily Walsh, EWalsh@YourObserver.com Associate Publisher — East County Observer / Lori Ruth, LRuth@YourObserver.com Executive Editor and COO / Kat Hughes, KHughes@YourObserver.com Managing Editor / Jay Heater, JHeater@YourObserver.com Sports Reporter / Ryan Kohn, RKohn@YourObserver.com Staff Writers / Liz Ramos, LRamos@YourObserver.com; Brendan Lavell, BLavell@YourObserver.com Copy Editor/ Kaelyn Adix, KAdix@YourObserver.com Editorial Designers / Melissa Leduc, MLeduc@YourObserver.com; José Valle, JValle@YourObserver.com A+E Editor / Andréa Martone, AMartone@YourObserver.com Black Tie Editor / Harry Sayer, HSayer@YourObserver.com Director of Advertising / Jill Raleigh, JRaleigh@YourObserver.com Sales Manager / Penny Nowicki, PNowicki@YourObserver.com Regional Digital Director / Kathleen O’Hara, KOHara@YourObserver.com Senior Advertising Executive / Laura Ritter, LRitter@YourObserver.com Advertising Executives / Richeal Bair, RBair@YourObserver. com; Beth Jacobson, BJacobson@ YourObserver.com; Jennifer Kane, JKane@YourObserver.com; Honesty Mantkowski, HMantkowski@ YourObserver.com; Toni Perren, TPerren@YourObserver.com; Brenda White, BWhite@YourObserver.com Classified Advertising Sales Executive / Audri Ferguson, AFerguson@YourObserver.com Sales Operations Manager / Susan Leedom, SLeedom@YourObserver.com Sales Coordinator / Account Manager Lori Downey, LDowney@YourObserver. com Advertising Assistant / Sam Johnson, SJohnson@YourObserver.com Digital Fulfillment Specialist / Emma Burke, EBurke@YourObserver. com Tributes Coordinator / Kristen Boothroyd, Tributes@YourObserver.com Director of Marketing / Robin Lankton, RLankton@YourObserver.com Marketing Coordinator / Samantha Dischinger, SDischinger@YourObserver. com Director of Creative Services / Caleb Stanton, CStanton@YourObserver.com Creative Services Administrator / Marjorie Holloway, MHolloway@ YourObserver.com Advertising Graphic Designers / Luis Trujillo, Louise Martin, Shawna Polana Digital Developer / Jason Camillo, JCamillo@YourObserver.com Director of Information Technology / Adam Quinlin, AQuinlin@YourObserver. com Chief Financial Officer / Laura Strickland, LStrickland@YourObserver. com Controller / Rafael Labrin, RLabrin@YourObserver.com Office and Accounting Coordinator / Donna Condon, DCondon@ YourObserver.com

Observer Media Group Inc.

is locally owned.

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

CEO / Matt Walsh Vice President / Lisa Walsh Chairman Emeritus / David Beliles

8130 Lakewood Main St., Suite D207 Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 941-755-5357

YourObserver.com © 2020 The Observer Media Group Inc. All Rights Reserved

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

SIDE OF RANCH

|

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

9A

JAY HEATER

Spend the ‘lousy’ money for library S

o do you get the feeling that if we could get the proposed East County Library to bark, our Manatee County commissioners wouldn’t mind spending $19.9 million on it?

OK, a little humor before starting serious topics.

When Commissioner Carol Whitmore pleaded last week that she only wanted “a lousy $6 million” for a new animal shelter — despite the county having an existing one in Palmetto along with the pending donation of the Bishop Animal Shelter in Bradenton — fellow Commissioner James Satcher changed his position and said, “Let’s do it.”

Boy do we love our animals.

Commissioner George Kruse, who has been the voice of reason lately, noted that he simply wanted to wait until the Bishop Animal Shelter was indeed a county resource up and running before deciding whether to support an East County animal shelter. Far too logical to me.

Due to the East County Observer’s deadline for this Uncomfortable Times week’s edition, I was writing this column before commissioners were set to meet Sept. 14 in the evening to approve this fiscal year’s budget. I am predicting the East County animal shelter will move forward.

The library, however, could

Courtesy rendering

This draft shows an early rendering of Manatee County’s plan for the library. Commissioners have been debating whether the library is worth the $19.9 million budgeted.

We’re

open

well be sent back to the drawing I am also for transparency. board.

I would imagine the fate of Yeah pets. Boo people. a Lakewood Ranch library will I certainly applaud District 5 have a lot to do with the way Commissioner Vanessa Baugh, the spending is itemized. When Call forsupporter Comfortable a staunch of a new Measures! county officials talk of a “$20 library in Lakewood Ranch, for million” library, people take putting on the brakes and saying notice. In June 2020, the county she wanted to see all the facts announced plans to add a second and figures associated with floor to the library design, movbuilding a $19.9 million library. ing the cost from $10 million to Certainly, I am all for fiscal $14.9 million. responsibility.

Sue Ann Miller, the presi-

We’re

open

SAVE HUNDREDS! Uncomfortable Times Call for Comfortable Measures!

FURNITURE+LIGHTING+ACCENTS+INTERIOR DESIGN

the addition of a second floor.

It wasn’t just about the library, either. It was about adding public meeting space that was needed. Everything seemed to be on point.

Until now.

Manatee County purchased the land for park amenities and the library in 2017-18. It’s time to move forward and put a shovel in the ground.

Building an undersized library would be a mistake. The lot size of 2 acres means expansion would be vertical in the future, and that, for sure, will be expensive.

Check the figures, do your due diligence, and err on the overspending side, at least for this project.

If you don’t, you can think about this pay-me-now or payme-later scenario.

The two-lane Fort Hamer Bridge.

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

Introducing a First-of-its-Kind HeartFlow Technology

Uncomfortable Uncomfortable Times Times Call Call for for Comfortable Comfortable Measures!

Measures!

copenhagen imports

dent of the Friends of the East Manatee Library at Lakewood Ranch, was headed to the budget meeting Sept. 14 to plead with commissioners to realize they were voting on a $14.9 million project and not the $19.9 million that was announced by Administrator Scott Hopes in June.

Hopes noted at the time the extra $5 million had to do with expenditures that was needed by the entire Premier Park campus, and not just the library.

It’s all how you spin it.

Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge has noted he would support a $7 million library in Lakewood Ranch, and that’s it.

Perhaps he and a few buddies will build it. Otherwise, his statement is out of touch with reality.

In this particular case, the county should go big. It’s only another — what’s the phrase? — lousy $5 million.

The center of Manatee County quickly is becoming the Lakewood Ranch area. When the East County Library was a $10 million project, it was scheduled to be 24,000 square feet as compared to the Central Library in Bradenton, which was 51,700 square feet. The East County Library was not intended to be a satellite. Growth had exploded, and a Central-like library made sense.

Logically, the plan expanded to almost 50,000 square feet with

“HeartFlow Analysis is a convenient platform that offers precise detail and diagnostic accuracy for coronary artery disease, helping to determine the best treatment approach for a patient without invasive testing,” says cardiologist David C. Buck, DO, FACC.

Customize your dream chair from 6 gorgeous glove leather colors and choice of 8 wood finishes. All in stock!

Black

Sand

Sparrow Blue

Metal Grey

Light Grey

Lakewood Ranch Medical Center is one of the first hospitals in our area to offer the HeartFlow® Analysis tool to its cardiac patients.

Ask your physician if HeartFlow® Analysis is right for you.

Silver Grey

NOW with “Comfort6 Coupon” Customize Customize your your dream dream chair chair from from 6 gorgeous gorgeous glove glove leather leather colors and choice of 8 wood finishes.

All in Admiral Large of 8 wood Admiral colors and choice finishes.Medium All in stock! stock!

Only $1895.00

Only $1795.00

Reg $2995.00

Black

Sand

Need a cardiologist?

Visit: lwrmc.com/findadoctor

Reg $2895.00

Sparrow

Metal

Light

Silver

Black Sand Sparrow Metal Light Silver Blue either Greyfor immediate Grey Grey Reserve your chair Blue Grey Grey Grey local white glove delivery or for a future delivery date.

NOW with Coupon” NOW with “Comfort “Comfort Coupon” Special Factory Authorized Purchase

copenhagen imports Only Only Only $1895.00 $1895.00 Only $1795.00 $1795.00 Admiral Admiral Large Large

Admiral Admiral Medium Medium

FURNITURE+LIGHTING+ACCENTS+INTERIOR DESIGN Reg $2995.00 Reg $2895.00 Reg $2895.00

SOCIAL DISTANCING and CDC GUIDELINES

A Member of the Manatee Healthcare System

copenhagen imports

Sarasota, Florida 34231 *See Sales Associate for Details

941-923-2569 copenhagen-imports.com

FURNITURE+LIGHTING+ACCENTS+INTERIOR FURNITURE+LIGHTING+ACCENTS+INTERIOR DESIGN DESIGN

SOCIAL SOCIAL DISTANCING DISTANCING and and CDC CDC GUIDELINES GUIDELINES

364232-1

Reserve Reserve your your chair chair either either for for immediate immediate local white glove delivery or for a future delivery 7211white S. Tamiami Mon.-Sat. • Sun. 12-5 date. local gloveTrail delivery or for a10-5 future delivery date.

Physicians 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.

210261-2239 8/21

349702-1

Reg $2995.00

10A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

Teens’ day in court Teen Court allows students to judge their peers.

ABOUT MANATEE COUNTY TEEN COURT AND TEEN COURT TOO Manatee County’s Teen Court program is a diversionary program designed to stop youthful delinquent behavior before a pattern is established. Teen Court is for high school students while Teen Court Too is for middle school students.

Manatee County Teen Court was established 30 years ago and has since kept 18,000 cases out of the juvenile court system.

The program allows first-time offenders between ages 10-17 to be judged by a jury of their peers who are youth volunteers.

LIZ RAMOS 360409-1

STAFF WRITER

The past six months of virtually volunteering for Manatee County Teen Court and Teen Court Too has been an eye-opening experience for Kadyn Davis, an eighth grader at Braden River Middle School.

As a volunteer, Davis has had the opportunity to hear reallife court cases of youths who are first-time offenders going through Teen Court, a diversionary program designed to stop youthful delinquent behavior before a pattern is established.

“It helps you learn right from wrong and how something that’s small can turn into something big with just a few actions,” Davis said.

The Teen Court program began 30 years ago in Manatee County and has kept more than 18,000 cases out of the juvenile court system.

Defendants’ cases are heard by a jury of their peers, who are the youth volunteers responsible for deliberating cases and determining consequences.

“I believe the delinquent is more concerned as far as being judged by a jury of their peers because (their peers) know when they’re not being honest and when they’re being sincere,” said Yantee Hines, the supervisor of the Teen Court program.

Youth volunteers, like Davis, are given roles of juror, attorneys, clerk and bailiffs. “(The roles give) them more

* *Restrictions apply.

See server for full details.

UNLIMITED WASHING, UNLIMITED HAPPINESS!

JOIN TODAY!

PLANS START AT JUST $19.99 PER MONTH.

WHAT SEPARATES JAX FROM THE REST?

6415 SR64 EAST, BRADENTON FL 34208 , WWW.JAXKARWASHFL.COM 941.746.WASH(9274)

NOW ENROLLING

Stay Curious.

Stay Connected.

6 Weeks to 12 Years of Age & VPK

Explore. Learn. Grow.

941-200-4250 | 7218 55th Ave. Bradenton, Fl 34203 | www.discoverypoint.com/twelve-oaks

WEST FLORIDA’S PREMIER POOL BUILDER

Register now for these upcoming events!

Einstein’s Circle: State of Water, State of Mind (Online) Wednesday, Sept. 29 • 3-4:30 PM • Speaker: Cynthia Barnett CONNECTIONS: Documentary Film Series Monday, Oct. 4 • 2:30-4:30 PM • Worn Stories Monday, Nov. 1 • 2:30-4:30 PM • Tell Me Who I Am Moderator: Julie Cotton OLLI at Ringling College Ringling College Museum Campus

Design•Build•Maintain Professional In-House Construction

1001 S. Tamiami Trail

Call today to schedule an appointment

Sarasota, FL 34236 www.OLLIatRinglingCollege.org

360895-1

941-309-5111 • OLLI@ringling.edu

941.927.1882

www.HolidayPoolsFlorida.com

of West Florida, Inc. Lic# CPC1458597

Family Owned and Operated Since 1994

364311-1

Learn More and Schedule a Tour TODAY!

364302-1

363170-1

•EVERY VEHICLE RECEIVES A FREE "BUFF N SHINE" AT THE END OUR OUR TUNNEL •OVER THE TOP CUSTOMER SERVICE •FREE TOWEL DRY FOR ALL VEHICLES •PERSONAL TOUCH INTERIOR SERVICES •DETAIL SERVICES (20% OFF FOR PASS MEMBERS)

understanding of how the court system works because most of the time, they only see it from the outside looking in,” Hines said. “They’re able to listen to the case, hear what happened, and they’re able to be more involved in the decisions that occur in that hearing.”

Davis said it’s been interesting hearing the different cases that have come before him, such as a shoplifting case, and getting a behind-the-scenes look at how a court proceeding would occur.

“I’m part of helping kids so they don’t have to go through the system and get in more trouble than they have to,” Davis said.

“It feels like I’ve helped them in the long run since it’s not put on their record.”

Hines said the program makes a tremendous impact on the defendants because charges won’t appear on their records if they complete the program.

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

11A

The Most Beautiful Jewels in Lakewood Ranch

Courtesy photo

HOW TO VOLUNTEER

Liz Ramos

“We have youth who want to attend college and want to receive great jobs,” Hines said. “They do not want these bad choices that were made early in their lives to hold them back in their future.”

Hines said Teen Court has about 60 youth volunteers annually but always is looking for more students to participate.

“This has a huge impact on our community,” Hines said. “It shows leadership. It shows commitment.”

Manatee County Teen Court always is looking for more volunteers. Youth volunteers play different roles in hearings including prosecuting attorney, defense attorney, court clerk, bailiff and juror.

To become a volunteer, visit ManateeClerk.com/departments/teen-court, and print out a Teen Court Volunteer Form. A parent or legal guardian must sign the form.

Mail the volunteer form to: Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court ATTN: Teen Court/Teen Court Too P.O. Box 25400 Bradenton, FL 34206-5400 For more information, contact Yantee Hines, the Teen Court supervisor, at 741-4027.

361976-1

ARTS DAYe Saturday, Sept. 18 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

St. A r m ands

C I R C L E e s t

1 9 2 6

San Marco Plaza

8225 Natures Way Suite 115 • Lakewood Ranch Florida 34202 • 941-210-4052

v i l

Sarasota’s best performers, musicians and visual artists will take center stage at St. Armands Circle. So bring a seat and join us for a day of memorable performances, including: Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe Chamber Orchestra of Sarasota Jazz Club of Sarasota The Alan Grant Band Florida Studio Theatre

S l OF THE CIRCLE

363868-1

Above: Youth volunteers participate in a Manatee County Teen Court hearing.

Right: Kadyn Davis, an eighth grader at Braden River Middle School, says listening to the different cases that come through Manatee County Teen Court has been interesting.

12A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

Sarasota’s Best Voted One of

28 Years in a Row!

BLINDS•SHUTTERS DRAPERIES•WALLCOVERINGS

359440-1

941-925-7800 mmwallcoveringsblinds.com 4801 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota Across from The Landings

Wallcoverings & Blinds, Inc. Since 1989

Janet and Curt Mattson Owners

EXPERIENCE the

360 Solution

Brendan Lavell

DR. RUBINS David Rubins, MD, BSME, FAAOS, is a board-certified joint replacement surgeon at 360 Orthopedics in Sarasota, Venice, and Lakewood Ranch, Florida.

He specializes in hip and knee replacement.

Mac Pizza & Wings Manager Nic Muth says his Sicilian family wanted to bring Brooklyn-style pizza to East County.

Special delivery

“I am post hip replacement 5 yrs. I have not had any pain since that surgery. I felt Dr. Rubins had my best interest.

I have referred many patients to him.” — TAMMY D. DR. ARMAGHANI Sheyan J. Armaghani, MD, is a specialist in adult spine reconstruction and minimally invasive spine surgery at 360 Orthopedics in Sarasota, Venice, and Lakewood Ranch, Florida.

A Sicilian family from East County opens a Brooklynstyle pizzeria.

“Dr. Armaghani is wonderful!! He is extremely knowledgeable & forthcoming in sharing his plan for your care. I highly recommend him!” —CYNTHIA F.

HIP | KNEE | PAIN MANAGEMENT | NECK & SPINE | HAND & WRIST FOOT & ANKLE | REGENERATIVE | SPORTS MEDICINE & MORE

BRENDAN LAVELL STAFF WRITER

3 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS Sarasota | Lakewood Ranch | Venice

M

LET’S GET MOVING

ac Pizza & Wings Manager Nic Muth said there is a dearth of true Italian-influenced, New York-style pizza in East

CALL US TODAY!

Our name says it all ... our patients

the Center of our Care.

VOTED #1areIN ORTHOPEDIC CARE Complete & Comprehensive Orthopedics

360456-1

941.360.2233

County.

Both the Savanna resident’s parents immigrated to New York from Sicily, and the new pizzeria’s

co-owners — Muth’s father-inlaw, Andrew Di Stefano, and Di Stefano’s best friend, Bartolo Lentini — are also from Sicily.

Mac Pizza & Wings, located in east Bradenton at 9648 State Road 64, opened in June.

“Everybody has their own idea of what a real Italian pizza is, depending on where you’re from in Italy and depending on where you’re from here,” Muth said. “It’s all kind of personal opinion, but we try to bring the best Brooklyn style, that we think is the best pizza, to this area.”

Mac Pizza & Wings ships its dough from New York to ensure it has the fluffy texture that comes

CALL 941.951.BONE (2663) TODAY! SAME/NEXT DAY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

MuSic by EubiE blAkE cONcEiVEd by JuliANNE bOyd #1 Choice in Orthopedic Care Sarasota • Lakewood Ranch • Venice

SF-1874297

360-orthopedics.com

PROOF O.K. BY:___________________________

Featuring “I’m Just Wild About Harry” and 22 more Eubie Blake classics!

O.K. WITH CORRECTIONS BY:________________________

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY • SUBMIT CORRECTIONS ONLINE

SF-1874297 (100%) ADVERTISER: SARASOTA ORTHOPEDIC

PROOF CREATED AT: 2/10/2020 11:48:05 AM

SALES PERSON: SFSR02

NEXT RUN DATE: 02/11/20

SIZE: 2X10

PROOF DUE: 02/10/20 11:59:55

PUBLICATION: SF-HEALTH & FITNESS

diREcTEd by JiM WEAVER

OcT 6–NOV 21, 2021

Sat, Sept 25, 2pm • SAILOR CIRCUS ARENA Sun, Sept 26, 4pm • GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH Key Chorale celebrates the powerful legacy of African American spirituals and Gospel music in a feel-good concert experience. Joined by the energetic pulse of The Stephen Lynerd Group and the soulful sounds of the Hammond B-3 organ, this opening concert is full of upbeat, joyful music sure to raise the roof!

Purchase your tickets today at:

KeyChorale.org 941.552.8768

TickETS ON SAlE NOW!

941-366-1505 1012 N ORANGE AVE, SARASOTA

363268-1

363979-1

westcoastblacktheatre.org

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

IF YOU GO MAC PIZZA & WINGS Where: 9648 State Road 64, Bradenton When: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Monday through Sunday More info: Visit MacPizza Wings.com.

“It’s all kind of personal opinion, but we try to bring the best Brooklyn style, that we think is the best pizza, to this area.”

— Nic Muth

from New York water. The restaurant also imports San Marzano tomatoes from Italy and uses Mozzarella cheese made from buffalo milk, which Muth said gives it extra richness.

Mac Pizza uses a pizza press to compress its dough into a perfect, consistent circle between two plates and then heats to about 300 degrees. The heat prevents the dough from shrinking back into itself. The pizzas then go through a conveyor-style oven, which Muth said is fine-tuned to ensure they come out with a perfect golden-brown color every single time.

Customers can order their own pizzas by selecting ingredients, but the restaurant also offers several specialities. One option is a Brooklyn-style Sicilian pizza with provolone cheese

on the bottom and extra sauce on top. Another Sicilian pizza, the Grandma Style, is made with garlic sauce and marinara pesto drizzled on top.

Muth said the pizzeria’s wings are another one of its staples. The chicken is oven-baked and comes with a choice of 11 sauces, including buffalo, Korean barbecue and Jamaican jerk.

“It keeps it on the healthier side,” Muth said. “No fryers or anything like that. So we get rotisserie wings. They come out super tender, but they also come out super crispy.”

The idea for the restaurant, a family-owned chain with one location in New Jersey and one in Virginia, each owned by one of Di Stefano’s cousins, came about at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Mac Pizza doesn’t have any dine-in seating, for example.

Muth said the cost of food is high right now, and focusing on carryout and delivery customers makes things a little simpler while keeping costs more manageable.

Plus, it allows Mac Pizza to focus on the local delivery market, which Muth said doesn’t consist of many pizzerias outside of the national chains, such as Domino’s and Papa John’s.

Muth said the family’s goal is to eventually open a second location on the other side of Lakewood Ranch. He has researched the area and expects the population to grow quickly over the next few years.

“We don’t want to go too far,” Muth said. “We want to stick to the community.”

Includes a 2nd Set of Led Zeppelin Favorites and Deep Tracks!

FRI, SEPT 24 • 8PM THE FEEL-GOOD MUSICAL that finds the JOY OF LIVING IN THE MOMENT. — Chicago Sun-Times —

JIMMY BUFFETT’S

|

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

13A

BOGO Bonanza!

Zip•Climb Swing•Soar The Ground Is Overrated BRADENTON

©

941-219-4457

www.TreeUmph.com Set Your Mind on Island Time.

BOOK BY GREG GARCIA & MIKE O’MALLEY MUSIC AND LYRICS BY JIMMY BUFFETT

FRI, OCT 29 • 7:30PM

362467-1

TICKETS & PRESHOW DINING

941.263.6799 vanwezel.org

Prices, dates and times subject to change without notice.

BUY ONE, GET ONE

Twice the Fun for the Price of ONE!* On Sale from September 10 – September 30.

Limited Time Only – Get BOGO Ape Up or Adventure Admission Gift Certificates! *Cannot be combined with any other offer. Must be used for adventures before November 15, 2021.

344891-1

Box Office: M-F 10-6, Sat 10-4, Open Later on Show Days

L TIMIMIT E O ED NL Y

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

First Physicians Group

Welcomes Ralph P. Tufano, MD, MBA, FACS We are pleased to welcome our first Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgeon to the First Physicians Group network. Ralph P. Tufano, MD, joins FPG from the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and Hospital. Dr. Tufano will manage and provide surgical treatment for thyroid nodules, thyroid cancer, benign thyroid disease causing symptoms and hyperparathyroidism.

His novel treatment techniques, including scarless transoral thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) will provide more treatment options and improve surgical outcomes for patients with these conditions.

Bramwell Tovey is the new music director of the Sarasota Orchestra.

Courtesy photo

MAESTRO WITH A MISSION

Specialty: Thyroid nodules, thyroid cancer, neck lymph node metastases, advanced and recurrent thyroid cancer, goiters, Graves’ disease, hyperparathyroidism, scarless surgery and radiofrequency ablation Board Certification: American Board of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery Medical School: State University of New York at Buffalo, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences

A

Internship & Residency: Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA Fellowship: Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD

To schedule an appointment, call (941) 262-0500

First Physicians Group Thyroid and Parathyroid Center 1901 Floyd Street, Sarasota, FL 34239 www.smhthyroidandparathyroid.com • www.firstphysiciansgroup.com

361815-1

maestro at the peak of his career, Bramwell Tovey might be new to Sarasota audiences, but Sarasota isn’t new to the British-born conductor.

Sarasota had a brief taste of Tovey when he guest-conducted the Sarasota Orchestra in the 20192020 season. This time, he’s here to stay.

Tovey’s track record has been a successful one, working with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, New York Philharmonic, Boston Symphony Orchestra and Philadelphia Orchestra, as well as orchestras across Europe and Asia. He’s also a pianist and composer and a graduate of the Royal Academy of Music.

The Observer spoke with Tovey about his musical experience and his plans for the Sarasota Orchestra.

What lured you to Sarasota?

I came down to visit a friend in Sarasota, and I met many people in leadership positions in the arts and music. I loved their energy.

I also liked the city itself. What’s not to like?

I also recently recovered from cancer (diagnosed in 2019), and I felt the universe say to me, “Go for it.” The cancer journey was life-enhancing for me. I learned how to be a better human being as a result.

The Home Service Pros Who Care

The Area’s most Trusted Name since 1974

New AC System Starting at

4,800!

$

+ 12 Months 0% Financing Available!

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

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

Offer expires 9/30/2021.

250 OFF

100 OFF

$

Reme Halo Air Purifier

Cannot be combined with other offers.

Contact Aqua Plumbing & Air for details.

Offer expires 9/30/2021.

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

Cannot be combined with other offers.

Contact Aqua Plumbing & Air for details.

Offer expires 9/30/2021.

FREE

$

Whole House Water Treatment System

LET AQUA HELP YOU ON YOUR NEXT ELECTRICAL PROJECT!

AND SO MUCH MORE!!

Water Quality Analysis ($99 value)

CALL NOW! 941.866.6210

or visit www.AquaPlumbingSarasota.com

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

Offer expires 9/30/2021.

Lic # cAc1816020 • PLbg cFc1428223 • ELEc Ec13009313 360583-1

14A

SEE HOW MUCH MORE YOU CAN SAVE!!

Air Conditioning

Plumbing

Electrical

Water Treatment

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

15A

We are open for private & group lessons at home & community pools!

Every article I read about you speaks to your charismatic ways with the audience. What is your personal style?

Making a connection with my audience is very important to me. I believe in being authentic — audiences can tell if someone is authentic or not — and I’ve learned to say the right thing at the right moment.

I like to have intense visual contact with my audience as I believe the eyes are the windows to the soul and help to build trust.

I like to talk softly and intimately to my audience, making sure I don’t use artificial verbiage that’s technical and “mumbo jumbo.”

I believe in keeping it simple and always, always humor.

You’ve said that “the power of music changes lives.” What does that mean to you?

Words can’t describe the nuances of life, but music can. Music influences us in so many ways in a harmonious fashion. Sounds generate emotions, and when we’re all put into a room together playing instruments, we are in harmony.

Tell us about your passion of mentoring youth and opening them up to music.

I love to ignite young souls. When I was music director of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, I

SWIMMING LESSONS

Join the SCHOOL OF FISH TODAY!

Over 25 years experience. Instructors specialize in teaching swim to all ages and all skill levels, including children and adults with special needs! Home Pools, Community Pools and the John Marble Aquatic Center.

(941) 907- 8482 | mjbhaus@aol.com | Schooloffishswimminglessons.com

What is the Sarasota Orchestra’s five-year plan?

I want to help the orchestra develop and fulfill its growth potential, especially through recruitment.

I also want to address areas of repertoire that we haven’t yet tackled, such as looking at different ways of presenting “tried and trusted” pieces of music and other types of repertoire.

This year I’m hoping to explore a brilliant composer, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, whose work was performed in the U.S. in the early 1900s. And, of course, we all would like to see a new home built for Sarasota Orchestra.

Any other thoughts to share?

My decision to join the Sarasota Orchestra was made because the musicians’ artistry and dedication and the organization’s health and community’s support all resonated with an inspirational unanimity of vision.

For me, music is a profound language that addresses humanity at a level that is beyond words. To have been able to spend my entire career sharing music through the power of the modern symphony orchestra has been an extraordinary privilege.

— ANDRÉA MARTONE

BUY ★ SELL ★ TRADE — 2 Guys —

GUN SHOW

SEPT. 25 & 26 Robarts Arena • 3000 Ringling Blvd • Sarasota Saturday 9am - 5pm • Sunday 9am - 3pm

Guns, knives, accessories, ammo, parts and so much more! r 2 Hou $1 OFF admission PaFrREE CWP king! with this ad s Classe Also join us in

Port Charlotte: October 9 & 10 For more information:

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

363153-1

SARASOTA ORCHESTRA SEASON OPENING When: Oct. 30 Where: Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave. Tickets: $26-$41 Info: Call 953-3434.

created the VSO School of Music, … where students of all ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds could enjoy lifelong learning, and the majority of instructors would be members of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. I also believe that we need to teach our youth more about the famous composers so they can identify with them.

Beethoven was a rock star. And he looked a little like Mick Jagger.

Kids can relate to that.

363367-1

IF YOU GO

OPEN HOUSE SET AT BOT

H UPPER & LOWE R SCHOOL S

Easterseals Academy specializes in serving Manatee and Sarasota county students, aged Pre-K to 22 years old, who are challenged by developmental, physical, learning, and mild behavioral disabilities as well as autism.

Your child’s education experience will be enriched with art, music, Spanish, yoga, organic agriculture, nutrition, movement, PT-OT-speech-equine therapies including behavioral and neurofeedback, employment opportunity training as well as family support.

INDIVIDUALIZED PLANS • SMALL CLASSES • SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE BRADEN CAMPUS PRE-K

Easterseals Southwest Florida 350 Braden Ave., Sarasota

SARASOTA CAMPUS K–8

Lee Wetherington Boys & Girls Club 3130 Fruitville Road, Sarasota

BRADENTON CAMPUS 9–12

Boys & Girls Club of Manatee 5236 30th St. W., Bradenton

Academy

Learn more at EastersealsAcademy.org Sponsored by Easter Seals Southwest Florida, Inc., and the State of Florida, Agency for Persons with Disabilities.

Thursday, Sep. 16

6 p.m.

FOR K–8 STUDENTS at the Lee Wetherington Boys & Girls Club 3130 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota

Thursday, Sep. 23

6 p.m.

FOR 9–12 STUDENTS at the Boys & Girls Club of Manatee 5236 30th St. W., Bradenton

Call 941-271-9851 for more information.

364476-1

Three campuses. One mission.

Join us to learn more about all Easterseals Academy can offer your child.

16A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

FORUM

IT’S READ EVERYWHERE Headed on a trip? Snap a photo of you on vacation holding your Observer, then submit your photo online at YourObserver.com/ ItsReadEverywhere. Stay tuned for this year’s prize, and happy travels!

NONSURGICAL & REGENERATIVE MEDICINE OPTIONS IN ORTHOPEDICS An open discussion on PRP, Stem Cells and the latest treatments for orthopedic conditions.

CHRISTOPHER SFORZO, M.D.

YO U A R E I N V I T E D !

Join our board-certified physicians as they offer their expertise and answer your questions about biologics in the evolving world of regenerative medicine.

Thursday, September 30, 2021 4:30 pm

CHRISTOPHER DILLINGHAM, M.D.

CHARLES STEWART, M.D.

Please register to attend:

THESE BOOTS MADE FOR WALKING: The Creekwood Bootcamp ladies — Tracy Gundrum, Holly Antoszewski, Dawn Tschiggfrie, Gina Medred and Tina Walker — conquered the challenging hikes of Abrams Falls, Mt. LeConte and Clingman’s Dome in Tennessee. They brought along their East County Observer for the hike.

events@sforzodillingham.com or 941.378.5100 ext. 218

363760-1

PHILIP MEINHARDT, M.D.

Complimentary COVID-19 ANTIBODY TESTING

with Blood Donation Complimentary Covid-19 Antibody testing allows you to check and monitor the presence of Covid-19 Antibodies from the vaccine or natural infection.

Make an Appointment

345388-1

866-97-BLOOD | 866-972-5663 suncoastblood.org

DISCLAIMER: Blood donation must be successful. Antibody testing is NOT a COVID-19 diagnostic test. The results of this test should not be interpreted as an indication or degree of immunity or protection from reinfection.

SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

— Mustangs golfer Parker Severs SEE PAGE 19A

IF YOU GO

HIGH

PIRATES SAIL PAST MUSTANGS

5

BRADEN RIVER’S NEXT GAME Where: Southeast High (1-1) at Braden River (1-0) When: 7:30 p.m. Sept. 17 Pirates player to watch: Freshman running back Trayvon Pinder, who had 18 carries for 196 yards and four touchdowns against the Mustangs Seminoles player to watch: Senior quarterback Darvin Searls, who completed 21 of 35 passes for 177 yards and a touchdown last week against Port Charlotte High

Photos by Ryan Kohn

1

The Out-of-Door Academy senior cross-country runner Tristan McWilliam was third (16:01.50) at the Fort Myers Cross Country Invitational, Sept. 11 at Kelly Road Soccer Complex in Fort Myers.

Braden River defensive lineman Cody Kawcak holds up linebacker Andrew Nordland after a Nordland interception. The Pirates won the game 48-16.

2

Lakewood Ranch High freshman boys golfer Jaxon Brown (74) took medalist honors Sept. 7 at The Out-of-Door Academy Invitational at The Concession. The Mustangs (303) won the event by 13 strokes over Riverview High.

3

Lakewood Ranch senior cross-country runner Grace Marston (20:42.65) finished seventh at the Seffner Christian Invitational, Sept. 11 at Holloway Park in Lakeland.

4

Mary K. Heyde (27) won the Nine Hole Ladies Golf Association “Pick Your Poison” event held Sept. 9 at University Park Country Club.

5

Braden River High volleyball junior Courtney Kawcak had five kills and 25 digs Sept. 7 in the Pirates 3-2 home win against Lakewood Ranch.

www.manasotaonline.com

STATS FROM THE RIVALRY Overall record: Braden River leads the series 9-4.

Streak: The Pirates have won six games in a row by an average of 36 points.

Last Mustangs win: 2013 (42-21)

Braden River still dominant in the football series with Lakewood Ranch.

RYAN KOHN SPORTS REPORTER

A

fter a two-season hiatus, the series was back Sept. 10 between the Braden River High and Lakewood Ranch High football teams.

Unfortunately for the Mustangs, the result was similar to the trend before the series break.

Braden River’s 48-16 victory was almost as dominating as the 2018 game, which it won 56-0.

The host Pirates have now won the past six games in the series by an average of 36 points.

Despite a Mustangs’ resurgence under Head Coach Rashad West, they haven’t closed the gap with the powerful Pirates. Braden River scored on its first drive, a 36-yard scamper by freshman running back Trayvon Pinder, and didn’t look back.

The game was so lopsided that it was played with a running clock in the fourth quarter. The Mustangs scored on the final play of the game to close the margin.

1734 South Tamiami Trail Venice, FL 34293 941.493.7441

4551 N. Washington Blvd.

Sarasota, FL 34234 941.355.8437

“It’s been a couple years since we played this (game), and Coach West is doing a great job over there,” Braden River Head Coach Curt Bradley said. “Their junior varsity team is good, and their varsity team had a solid start to the year. Hopefully, this is a game that continues because it means a lot to this area. The players know each other. In the east Manatee area, they all played Pop Warner together. They probably played multiple sports together. It means something to those guys.”

West was not pleased with his team’s effort and said there were plays to be made if the Mustangs had given 100% of themselves to execution. He said he has to do a better job of preparing his team to play, especially in a game that has the emotional stakes of this one.

“I’m glad the students came out and supported our kids, but we have to give them more to cheer about,” West said. “We talk about this game as a rivalry. Well, it’s not going be a rivalry until we start doing our part. That starts with me. We have to get better.”

Mustangs senior kicker Drew Clark said the team has talked all week about the importance of the game. Clark said he could feel the excitement for the game rising within the school as it drew closer. The Lakewood Ranch faithful

2510 1st Street West Bradenton, FL 34208 941.748.4679

LAKEWOOD RANCH’S NEXT GAME Where: Gulf Coast High (1-1) at Lakewood Ranch (1-2) When: 7:30 p.m. Sept. 17 Mustangs player to watch: Junior wide receiver/tight end Isaac Ashley, who caught seven passes for 152 yards and a touchdown against the Pirates Sharks players to watch: Sophomore quarterback Konnor Barrett, who completed nine of 14 passes for 127 yards and two touchdowns last week against Golden Gate High

did show up as students brought numerous signs, including a large banner hung from the bleachers that said “We would rather walk the plank than be a Pirate.”

There are signs that the series could become closer in the future.

The Lakewood Ranch JV team defeated Braden River’s junior varsity team 40-14 on Sept. 9.

Next season, the Mustangs will also have another year of experience with players like junior wide receiver/tight end Isaac Ashley, who caught seven passes for 152 yards and a touchdown against the Pirates.

Braden River controlled the clock, and the game, with a consistent running game and, on defense, by forcing Madison into quick decisions with its pressure.

Pirates senior linebacker Evan Dangler had three sacks, and Madison threw two interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown by Dangler’s brother, junior Aidan Dangler.

“The atmosphere was amazing tonight,” Evan Dangler said.

“It was great to be a part of this rivalry. I loved it.”

OUR SHOWROOMS ARE OPEN Special Financing Available

349402-1

SPORTS

“I love that it is just you out there. You control what you do. ”

18A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

PROSE AND KOHN

RYAN KOHN

Local athlete puts her dream on ice Lakewood Ranch’s Monica Quimby was paralyzed at 19, but her athletic career has been pure gold.

L

akewood Ranch’s Monica Quimby refused to let her dream of being an elite athlete die.

It might have changed slightly, but it lives on.

Quimby, now 35, was a sophomore skier on the University of New Hampshire club team in 2006 when an attempted backflip went wrong at Sunday River Resort in Newry, Maine. She landed on her right side, breaking the L1 vertebrae in her back.

She was paralyzed.

Although it took a full semester to return to school, Quimby said quitting athletics was never an option. She said there’s something inside her that would not let her give up. She needed the competition to survive.

Because she couldn’t ski, she evaluated her options. She first tried paracanoeing, which she liked. She even competed in a few international events. It was fun, Quimby said, but it was also a solo competition.

Quimby didn’t know it at the time, she said, but she wanted something more communal. She

Courtesy photos

Lakewood Ranch’s Monica Quimby was paralyzed in a skiing accident in 2006, but her athletic career continued in sled hockey.

Lakewood Ranch’s Monica Quimby has been selected to her eighth USA sled hockey team.

decided to explore sled hockey and soon figured out that’s where she was supposed to be.

“Being on a team meant I was part of something again,” Quimby said. “I was not excluded or different. I soon realized that I could be not just an athlete again but an elite athlete. That was beyond my own expectations of what I could achieve.”

The transition to the ice was not an easy one. Sled hockey

requires tons of upper body strength and the ability to use both arms equally well, whether to shoot and pass or to move the sled. Quimby said skiing was “all legs,” and that’s where she drew her power. She had to reconfigure her body mechanics to fit the new sport. It was a challenge that she embraced.

All the rules in ice hockey apply to sled hockey, and that includes checking. That’s

something Quimby relishes, she said. As a defender, she likes to play physical. To her, crushing an opponent is just as satisfying as scoring a goal. Her protective nature has earned her the nickname “Mama Bear” on her Tampa Bay Lightning team — which is affiliated with the NHL team — as well as co-captain status. Quimby is currently the only woman on the Lightning, though others have played here

and there throughout her tenure.

Quimby’s hard work also paid off in her selection to U.S. teams. Her proudest sled hockey moment came in 2016 during her first World Festival competition.

Team USA headed to Norway to play in the Women’s World Ice Sled Hockey Festival.

“I watched them raise the American flag,” Quimby said.

“I sang the national anthem in a different country. I remember feeling so proud to be part of Team USA and to be an American but also to be representing our country with a group of incredibly talented women.”

Winning, Quimby said, was sweet — Team USA took the gold medal — and that moment of pride was sweeter.

Quimby’s career is still going strong. She was named to Team USA for the eighth time in August. Her story epitomizes strength and determination.

Hopefully her story inspires you to achieve your own dreams, whatever they might be.

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

GET THE BEST AIR CONDITIONING, PLUMBING AND ELECTRICAL SERVICE

Cleaner Air

ONLY $59

*

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

Healthier Water

Safer Home

150 OFF

FREE

$

*

*

ANY NEW WATER HEATER INSTALLATION

LANDSCAPE LIGHTS

FREE estimates if your water water is 8 years or older

Buy one light, get one free!

Up to 3 BOGO deals per customer.

*Some restrictions may apply.

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

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

(941) 343-8543 h CoolToday.com

351850-1

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

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

Parker Severs Parker Severs is a freshman boys golfer at Lakewood Ranch High.

Severs shot a two-under-par 69 to take medalist honors at the Riverview Ram Boys Golf Invitational, held Sept. 11 at Heritage Oaks Golf Club in Sarasota.

When did you start playing golf?

I started playing golf seriously five years ago. I played golf, soccer and football before that, but five years ago I decided to focus on golf only. I didn’t have to run much.

What is the appeal to you?

I love that it is just you out there.

You control what you do. You don’t depend on anyone else.

What is your best skill?

Recently, my putting has been good. I have struggled a bit with my wedges, and my putting has saved it.

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.

|

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

19A

Thank You It’s been a profound privilege to serve you for almost 20 years

tournament and do as well as we can there.

What is your favorite food?

It’s either pasta or tacos. I’ll go with pasta. I like pretty much every type of pasta.

What is your favorite TV show?

I don’t watch a lot of TV. I watch “Shark Tank” sometimes, and I like that. I watch that and (PGA Tour) golf.

What is the best advice you have received?

Golf is all about the short game, how you get up and down.

Finish this sentence: “Parker Severs is …”

Hard-working.

Come see us

What is your favorite golf memory?

At the Riverview Invitational, I sank a 40-foot putt on the last hole. That was a great way to end my tournament and get a win. It was a cool moment.

AT OUR DOWNTOWN SARASOTA LOCATION

52 S Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236 Hours: 9-7pm M-Saturday

What are your goals for the season?

We just want to make the state

Sunday by Appointment Only 941-365-1415 or 941-365-7434

364283-1

www.anamolinari.com

Loud, Clear, and

FREE! • Make calls with and without a landline

Clarity XLC8 Amplified Cordless Phone with Caller ID and Answering Machine

No Landline?

No Problem!

Amplify mobile calls with

CELL PHONE AMPLIFIERS! Available alone, or with the XLCGo cell phone amplifier!

SA-40 Amplifies up to 40 dB

• Pair up to 2 wireless devices with Bluetooth • 50 dB of amplification and 4 tone settings • Answering machine with SlowTalk feature

XLCGo Amplifies up to 50 dB

Don’t let hearing loss keep you from making important phone calls!

If you’re a Florida resident with hearing loss, you are eligible for free equipment from FTRI.

888-504-7317

www.ftri.org/free NP

363841-1

Apply online:

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

YourObserver.com

Discover

The Club You Will Call Home

TEE TO GREEN RENOVATION OF THE CHAMPIONS COURSE OPENING NOVEMBER 2021 NEW AND EXPANDED SHORT GAME AREA TWO PRACTICE PUTTING GREENS PREMIER TENNIS, PICKLEBALL, DINING AND SOCIAL ACTIVITIES

CONTACT SUZANNE GILE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP (941) 355-9733 WWW.PALMAIRE.NET

361753-1

20A

SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

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

YOUR NEIGHBORS

TWIRLERS BRING THE HEAT Lakewood Ranch High twirlers add a unique spin to their performance.

MAYA LANDER School: Lakewood Ranch High School Year: Senior When she started twirling: Third grade Started competing: 2018 Other marching band positions: Drum major TIFFANY MCCOY School: Lakewood Ranch High School Year: Junior When she started twirling: First grade Started competing: 2011 Other marching band positions: Color guard

LIZ RAMOS STAFF WRITER

I

t was like any other twirling performance for Lakewood Ranch High junior Tiffany McCoy and senior Maya Lander, except for one little detail.

When the two girls were performing Aug. 27 at Lakewood Ranch High before the game against Seminole, the ends of their batons were on fire.

Crowds always love the stunt, but Lander admits working with fire makes her nervous, especially at the beginning of the football season, which is the only event where the girls twirl fire.

“We could be doing easy stuff, but the fact we’re twirling fire is cool to people,” Lander said.

During each football game, the Marching Mustangs play a featured song (in this case “Party Rock Anthem”), and that’s when the fire is lit. After a few games each season, it becomes second nature.

Having baton twirlers perform alongside the band during pregame performances has become

a tradition at Lakewood Ranch High School over the past six years.

It gives McCoy and Lander a time to shine with their unique talents.

McCoy started twirling when she was in first grade, and Lander started in third grade. They’ve continued twirling ever since with the Bradenton Twirling Academy, developing more skills and tricks.

“It’s fun to learn new tricks, and I like how it incorporates a lot of different things,” Lander said.

“It’s kind of like dance and gymnastics in one.”

When they became freshmen at Lakewood Ranch High, Lander and McCoy were excited to join the other majorettes on the field.

The girls work together to create a routine for their performances, making sure they give each other an opportunity to showcase their talent with solos.

Besides twirling at football games, McCoy and Lander participate in baton-twirling competitions.

McCoy has been competing for 10 years and has won several McCoy and Lander are careful while twirling batons that are on fire. Lander says she gets nervous at first but that it doesn’t take long for her to get used to the fire.

Photos by Liz Ramos

Tiffany McCoy, a junior, and Maya Lander, a senior, continue the tradition of majorettes performing during the Lakewood Ranch High School football pregame shows.

competitions. Lander started competing in 2018.

“I like the competitive aspect of twirling,” McCoy said. “It’s fun to push yourself during practices because you want to do well. It’s fun pushing yourself to do harder things and putting in the time to get better results.”

In 2019, McCoy entered several categories for her age group and skill level and won first place for Miss Twirl Mania, first place for Military Strut and first place for I Strut, at the Twirl Mania International Championships at Walt Disney World.

“That was fun because I had competed twice before in those categories, and I never expected to win,” McCoy said. “I just tried to do my best.”

The girls have placed in the top 10 at Twirl Mania in categories including Best Appearing (twirlers are also judged on their costumes) and Solo.

“It’s cool to see different talents from different countries,” Lander said, noting most regional competitions are against twirlers they know.

McCoy and Lander want to continue competing, but the pandemic has knocked out competitive events for now.

When everything was shut down last year due to the pandemic, McCoy and Lander would compete against themselves at home. They would go into their backyards or the street to practice.

“When I practice in the street, all my neighbors are like, ‘Oh, that’s so cool,’” McCoy said. “I’m doing the most simple things, but I guess it’s fun for them to watch.”

Both Lander and McCoy enjoy the football pregame show performances because there isn’t the pressure of competition, and they can relax to showcase their unique talents.

360138-1

ABOUT THE TWIRLERS

2B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

Armenian musicians rock Rotary D

ozens of members of the Rotary Club of Lakewood Ranch watched as the Golden Gates from Armenia performed Sept. 9 at the Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club.

The Golden Gates from Armenia is a group of 15 musicians and dancers between the ages of 14 and 25 with the Reunite Cultures Fund, a nonprofit founded by Rotarians in 2003.

The music gave Rotary members a look into Armenian history and culture. Musician Lilit Petrosyan played a qaran, an Armenian stringed instrument, and Alex Danielyan and Emil Abrahamyan performed a dance that is traditionally done before going into battle.

“I thought they were great,” said

Mark Golub, the program chair for the Rotary Club of Lakewood Ranch. “I hope we can donate to some of their creative work in the future and have them back again.”

Some members of the rotary club, such as Carey Leichter, volunteered to host a few performers in their homes.

Leichter has always enjoyed meeting people from other countries and looked forward to getting to know the performers.

“Music is a universal language,” Leichter said. “My children are all musical as well, so I thought it was a great way to have the guests be comfortable in our culture and hopefully get a sense of what our family is like.”

Photos by Liz Ramos

Vitaliy Bezronlov, the founder and coordinator of the Reunite Cultures Fund, introduces the Golden Gates of Armenia.

— LIZ RAMOS

Above: Narek Khanzadyan performs a solo with an Armenian flute called a duduk.

Left: Emil Abrahamyan and Alex Danielyan perform a dance that is traditionally done before battle.

Alisa Darbinyan, Margarita Zakyan, Monika Avanesyan and Margarita Kritikashyan finish performing their first piece.

SERVING SARASOTA & BRADENTON

FOR OVER 50 YEARS HOMEOWNERS, BUILDERS, DESIGNERS & ARCHITECTS

STONE

CABINETRY

TILE

COUNTERTOPS

MOSAICS

FLOORING

DESIGN STAFF

WINDOW DÉCOR

4500 Carmichael Ave. Sarasota, FL 34234 941.355.2703 | FloridaDesignWorks.com/Sarasota/

TAMPA SHOWROOM 3609 Henderson Blvd. Tampa, FL 33609 813.336.8366 | FloridaDesignWorks.com/Tampa/ INFIN ITE POSSIB ILITIES. ONE SOU R C E. ™

FLORIDADESIGNWORKS.COM

Exclusive Retailer for Luxury Tile Brands & More:

Lunada Bay MiR Mosaic Florida Tile

Atlas Concorde AKDO

360549-1

SARASOTA SHOWROOM

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

3B

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

AS WE CELEBRATE 75 YEARS OF ENSURING

ABILITIES SHINE EVERY DAY WITH THE

Courtesy photo

A helping hand LIZ RAMOS

ABOUT UNIVERSITY PARK WOMEN’S CLUB

STAFF WRITER

W

hen Bradenton Police Department officers come into contact with community members in need, they now have the ability to give them a $25 Publix gift card as a boost.

University Park Women’s Club donated 216 gift cards of $25 each for officers to distribute throughout the community as needed.

“We are proud to support the efforts of our local police officers as they work to make the residents of Bradenton both safer and more secure,” said Vicki DiPaolo, the president of University Park Women’s Club. “Police officers often see firsthand who (is) in need of food and often provide assistance from their own pockets.”

Raising money for gift cards to give to the Bradenton Police is a new initiative for the club. Members raised the money along with an anonymous donation and an unspecified donation from Publix.

“As soon as you tell someone about this, everyone’s face just lights up, and they say, ‘Wow, that sounds like a wonderful idea,’” said Karen Vereb, the club’s first vice president.

Vereb said the police depart-

FIND US IN YOUR

NEIGHBORHOOD

University Park Women’s Club is a nonprofit that provides social events and allows its members to share their special interests.

For the past 20 years, the group has since donated more than $100,000 to nonprofits, particularly in areas of education, women’s needs and social services.

Members of the Bradenton Police Department say they are grateful for the gift cards they received to distribute to the community from University Park Women’s Club.

JULY 18 - SEPTEMBER 30 EASTERSEALS IS PARTNERING WITH THE FLANZER TRUST IN A MATCHING GIFT CAMPAIGN,

ment was eager to coordinate with the club as soon as the group approached the department. She said the Manatee Community Foundation suggested the Bradenton police.

DiPaolo presented Assistant Police Chief Josh Cramer and Police Chief Melanie Bevan with the gift cards Aug. 31.

“We are grateful the Bradenton Police Department can serve as a bridge between struggling members of the community,” Bevan said. “Distribution of the gift cards will be tracked for the success of this outreach program.”

TO HONOR EASTERSEALS’ 75th ANNIVERSARY AND SUPPORT THE MISSION TO SERVE THOSE WITH DISABILITIES.

this week, join ambassadors SHELLY PANAS / CENTURY 21 OBSERVER MEDIA GROUP EMILY WALSH KATHY PAULSEN DEBBIE TIMPONE GEORGE PFEIFFER MARY BETH BOS KAITLYN YELLE EASTERSEALS ACADEMY

Run for the Kitties

From Wherever You Call Home and

HELP SAVE LIVES!

ALSO JOIN

RISE & NYE’S

CONTESTS, PRIZES, FUN AND MORE!

http://www.guidedogs.org/puppycam/

FIND US IN YOUR

NEIGHBORHOOD

Looking for a copy of the

EVERY SATURDAY UNTIL SEPTEMBER 30 IN DOWNTOWN SARASOTA!

Registration

http://www.guidedogs.org/puppycam/

NOW OPEN

at catdepot.org (ends 10/31/21)

LV9705

LV9705

2542 17th St., Sarasota, FL 34234 www.catdepot.org Adoptions available by appointment 941.366.2404

NO JOB TOO TOUGH. NO JOB TOO ROUGH!

360179-11

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

#1 in Customer Service

CCC 014 711 Roofing Contractor

CCC 016 171 Building Contractor

WE ARE THE AREA’S LEADING

RE-ROOF SPECIALISTS

941.756.4259

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

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

Go to FlanzerTrust.org

and click on the Donate button.

Select Easterseals Southwest Florida from the menu.

IN HONOR OF EASTERSEALS HAPPINESS HOUSE

361523-1

We have more than 1,500 rack locations. To find one near you visit YourObserver.com/RackLocations

360477-1

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

Your community heart center... dedicated to the prevention, detection and treatment of cardiovascular illness.

Our multidisciplinary team of specialists work together to deliver a wide range of cardiac testing and treatment options.

We’ve got you covered with options extending from traditional to advanced, like WATCHMAN™ Implant; Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR); and the MitraClip® Valve Repair System.

CT scanner services also available.

Call 941.748.2277 to schedule an in-person or Telehealth appointment.

NEIGHBORS NOTES

4B

Courtesy photo

Workers plant trees through a program to provide Nathan Benderson Park with more shade.

Shade on way at Benderson Park

bradentoncardiology.com

316 Manatee Avenue West | Bradenton, FL 34205 8340 Lakewood Ranch Blvd, Ste 210 Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 941.748.2277

352349-1

Member of Manatee Physician Alliance For language assistance, disability accommodations and the non-discrimination notice, visit our website. 2195603-478033 9/21

Bringing Health & Independence Back to Over 1,600 Patients

A Not-for-Profit Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Facility accepting Medicare, Insurance & Private Pay Patients.

5381 Desoto Road, Sarasota, FL 34235 (Just East of Honore on Desoto Road) Marketing@HawthorneVillageofSarasota.com

www.HawthorneVillageofSarasota.com License #SNF130471051 EOE

360463-1

CALL 941-355-6111 TODAY

Feedback from visitors to Nathan Benderson Park often focused on one topic.

More shade is needed.

Suncoast Aquatic Nature Center Associates continued to address that request last week by planting 325 trees along a mile stretch between North Cattlemen Road and the park’s Cooper Creek Lake.

Both the road and the lake run parallel to Interstate 75’s west edge. The project began Aug. 30.

It follows the planting of 100 trees in the park during 2020.

A SANCA release said the trees are “Florida-friendly” and include Florida flame red maples, gumbo

limbos, southern red cedars, wax myrtles, slash pines, cathedral live oaks, cabbage palmettos, pond and bald cypresses, and winged elms.

The trees planted in 2020 were Florida flame red maples, southern magnolias, slash pines, cathedral live oaks and cabbage palmettos, according to the release.

Stephen Rodriguez, SANCA’s chief operating officer, thanked Sarasota County, Cherrylake Nursery and TLC Landscaping for making the project a reality.

“This is an investment in the park that will live on,” Rodriguez said in a release. “We look forward to seeing future generations of residents and visitors enjoying the beauty, shelter and natural

Make Hawthorne Village Part of your Healthcare Plan!

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

habitat these trees will provide.”

The cathedral live oaks will be the tallest at 120 feet at maturity.

The slash pines will grow to 50 feet while most of the others will reach 30 to 40 feet in height. The trees also will act as a sound barrier from the highway.

distributions at three locations near Title 1 schools. Our goal is to get fresh, nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables to families in need.

This work would not be possible without the investment of United Way Suncoast, and we are grateful for their partnership.”

Pet tips for hurricane season

Michael Saunders awards grant

Lakewood Ranch Community Emergency Response Team member Eileen O’Neill is asking community members to remember some important pet-safety tips during hurricane season, should it be necessary to either shelter in place or evacuate your home during an emergency.

Here are the tips: n Have a pet disaster plan. n Have a supply of at least two weeks of pet food, bottled water and pet medicines on hand. n Keep all pet foods in air-tight containers, and have bowls for food and a sufficient amount of kitty litter and a basket in which to put it on hand. n Pack favorite toys and blankets should you have to leave. Pack them in baggies. n Know which vet hospitals will be open and which shelters are pet-friendly, and have a list of pet-friendly hotels. n Have digital and printed copies of your pet’s health and vaccination records with you, especially rabies information. n Ensure your pet is wearing a collar with a rabies tag and contact information, including cellphone number and email address. Even cats should have a collar and leash in the event they try to escape from you. n If you become separated, it is helpful to have a photo of you and your pet together to prove ownership. n Pet emergency stickers near your front door can alert others of your pet inside. n Keep your pet secured in a carrier or cage. During a storm, windows might be broken and/or lanai screens damaged, allowing a frightened pet to get lost. Freeroaming pets might be exposed to cuts and scrapes from debris, as well as contaminated water and dangerous chemicals. n Microchip your pets. Make sure the information is up to date.

You are much more likely to be reunited with your pet if it has a microchip.

Neuro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson’s received a grant of $2,000 from The Michael Saunders and Co. Foundation to help provide more than 5,000 Parkinson’s Disease Resource Guides at no cost to the local Parkinson’s community.

MSC Foundation has partnered with Neuro Challenge to print and distribute more than 25,000

Meals on Wheels Plus-Manatee will receive a $33,000 grant from United Way Suncoast’s Community Investment Fund to support its Fresh Produce for Healthy Lives program.

Fresh Produce for Healthy Lives puts fresh produce into the hands of low-income babies, children, and families in Manatee County through the Mobile Produce Pantry. The produce is provided free of charge to all those who want to receive fresh fruits and vegetables at identified community drive-thru locations near the identified attendance zones of Title 1 schools. This program also includes nutrition education for families.

“The grant we received from United Way Suncoast is helping us to provide healthy food to Manatee County residents,” said Maribeth Phillips, the president and CEO of Meals on Wheels Plus-Manatee, in a release. “This funding will allow us to continue our Mobile Produce Pantry

Blood donations in demand The SunCoast Blood Centers is asking the community to donate blood and platelets to help ease a local and national blood crisis.

The COVID-19 pandemic and

hurricanes have increased the demand for blood.

“SunCoast is down to less than a one-day blood supply that serves 15 local hospitals,” said John Hall, the chief operating officer of SunCoast Blood Centers.

“We are asking people in our community to help in this time of crisis and donate immediately.”

SunCoast Blood Centers serves hospitals and health care facilities throughout Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee and Sarasota counties, as well as the Moffitt Cancer Center.

Donors aged 16 and over can schedule an appointment to give blood at any SunCoast Blood Centers location. The Lakewood Ranch location is located at 3025 Lakewood Ranch Blvd.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

5B

Local students earn degrees, honors Lakewood Ranch’s Zongfan Li graduated from Hofstra University of Hempstead, New York, earning a Bachelor of Business Administration in management. … Lakewood Ranch’s Izzy Eichenbaum graduated from Bates College of Lewiston, Maine, with a degree in psychology. … East County’s Matile Kaplan earned a Bachelor of Science in kinesiology, graduating cum laude, from the University of Rhode Island. …

East County’s Dolan Sipes earned dean’s list honors at Lee University of Cleveland, Tennessee. ...

East County’s Rachel Pullin and Jon Koch-Cate were named to the Dean’s List at Southern New Hampshire University.

LIVING local Download our new LAKEWOOD RANCH app Connect with all things LWR: events, amenities, community info, businesses & more!

New LWR Parks & Rec Guide - Now Online 363863-1

Meals on Wheels receives $33,000 grant

Parkinson’s Resources Guides since 2017. The free Parkinson’s Resource Guide provides comprehensive information that empowers people with Parkinson’s and their caregivers to live their best life with determination and hope in a supportive community.

The Resource Guide is available as a free digital download at NeuroChallenge.org and distributed upon request and through physicians’ offices and allied health care provider facilities.

|

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

COMMUNITY THURSDAY, SEPT. 16

BLOOD DRIVE Runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Grapevine Communications, 5021 Paylor Lane, Lakewood Ranch. Grapevine Communications and Suncoast Blood Centers are hosting a blood drive event to help with the severe blood supply shortage in the area. Anyone who gives blood receives a $10 Starbucks card. For more information or to reserve a space, call 351-0024.

ALLIANCE MEMBER PROFILE

SATURDAY, SEPT. 18

VETERANS PADDLERS DAY Runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota. All veterans and their families are invited to this Nathan Benderson Park dragon boat paddling program event. The park is forming a veterans dragon boat crew to compete in area festivals in the veterans division. There is a seat in the boat for anyone who has served. This event will be an orientation to the program. For more information, go to NathanBendersonPark.org.

SHELLY VAN DUSEN

REC DAY AT THE PARK Runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota. Nathan Benderson Park hosts Rec Day, which offers participants to try standup paddleboarding, kayaking, canoes, fishing and more. For more information, go to NathanBendersonPark.org. The fee is $10 per person or $5 for an adult who brings a child. The event is free for children 6 and younger.

Fishing licenses are required for all participants who fish.

https://bbbssun.org/

Tell us about your business.

“

I’m the Senior Development Director for the Sarasota and Manatee offices at Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Suncoast, a nonprofit that provides one-to-one mentoring relationships to youths ages 6 to 21 who are facing adversity. Throughout our 10-county footprint, we’re helping around 1500 children.

”

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.

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 22

ENTREPRENEURSHIP SEMINAR Begins at 11:30 a.m. at Lakewood Ranch Country Club, 7650 Legacy Blvd., Lakewood Ranch.

The Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance hosts “The Risks,

30

September 17 -19 , 2021 th

th

ALL DAY!

10:00AM - 6:00PM

”

Sat. Sept 18 SPECIAL EVENTS

Years

20

% Off

SATURDAY’S EVENTS INCLUDE:

RE! E STO R I T N E

• Sales & Giveaways • Art Demonstration with Brandon Thrift • Guided Meditation with Anahata • Chair Massages with Michelle Shaw • Mini Crystal & Tarot Classes • Ask a Psychic Mini Class • Tea Tasting with Tea Forté • On Demand Astrological Reports • Much Much More!

The Alliance is a connector--it offers valuable networking opportunities for businesses and non-profits to share information and learn more about one another. The leadership and staff are supportive and truly committed to members’ success.

”

For more information about this member or additional information about the LWRBA,

visit our website www.lwrba.org

1273 S . Tamiami Trail Sarasota , Fl 34239 (941) 361-3006 | Elysianfieldsgifts.com 364051-1

“

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 September. Vendors will be offering seafood, eggs, meats, dairy products, pastas, bakery goods, jams and pickles among other items. For more information, go to MyLWR.com.

WHEN:

Success is not the key to happiness; happiness is the key to success. If you love what you’re doing, you’ll be successful.

How does the Alliance help your business?

SUNDAY, SEPT. 19

FIELDS Celebrating

What is the most important piece of business advice you have received?

“

HANDS-ONLY CPR Begins at 10 a.m. at the Summerfield Community Park Pavilion, 6402 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. Learn the art of hands-only CPR. The Lakewood Ranch Community Activities event is for ages 12 and up and costs $10 for Lakewood Ranch residents and $20 for nonresidents. For more information, go to MyLWR.com.

ELYSIAN

It’s amazing to witness the profound positive impact that mentors can have on kids, increasing their self-esteem, improving their school performance, and decreasing risky behaviors while offering them hope and inspiration. As a volunteer, you can make a lasting impact on a child’s life by

364070-1

6B

*Not valid on prior purchases or on discounted or clearance items. Intuitive readings are also exempt from discounts.

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

7B

BEST BET SATURDAY, SEPT. 18

A concierge practice devoted to internal medicine and wellness.

File photo

Lakewood Ranch’s Colton Baughman participates in the Lakewood Ranch Anglers Club annual youth fishing tournament.

Rewards and Realities of Entrepreneurship.” Allison Imre, the president and CEO of Grapevine Communications, leads a panel of seasoned entrepreneurs talking about running a successful business. Other panelists include Jamie Smith, associate vice president of communications and marketing for the State College of Florida; Darrin Rohr, owner of HH Staffing; and Mike Quillen, president of Gecko’s Hospitality Group. Tickets are $29 for members and $39 for nonmembers.

To register, go to LWRBA.org.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 24 THROUGH SUNDAY, SEPT. 26

355354-1

YOUTH SOCCER TOURNAMENT Begins at 7 a.m. each day at Premier Sports Campus, 5895 Post Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. This tournament, hosted by Soccer Management Company, will bring more than 120 youth teams to

the area. The U9-U19 boys and girls event acts as a qualifier for the Adidas National Cup, to be held Feb. 19-21 in Richmond, Virginia. The event is free for spectators. For more information, visit SMCSoccer.com or PremierSportsCampus.com.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 25

BENEFIT RUN Begins at 7 a.m. at Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota. The Centerstone Life;Story 5K/10K run or walk raises money for suicide prevention and crisis care at Centerstone. The first 1,000 registrants will receive a participant shirt and a finisher medal.

The 10K costs $45 while the 5K costs $40. Students ages 13-18 can register for any event for $15 while kids ages 3-12 can register for any event for $11. For more information, visit Centerstone.org.

CHRISTOPHER S. LITTLE, M.D. and STEVEN W. FINEMAN, M.D.

EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE. EXTRAORDINARY CARE. Call (941) 954-9990 Visit www.sarasotapersonalmedicine.com

353422-1

FISHING SATURDAY Begins at 10 a.m. at James Patton Park, 5725 White Eagle Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. Lakewood Ranch Community Activities hosts Fishing Saturday, which offers casting and knot-tying instruction followed by fishing on Lake Patton. The event is free for Lakewood Ranch residents and $10 for nonresidents. For more information, go to MyLWR.com.

8B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

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

SARASOTA 3129 Founders Club Drive 3 Beds 4/1 Baths 5,873 Sq. Ft. Kathy Callahan 941-900-8088 A4507917 $2,800,000

BRADENTON 5948 Riverview Boulevard 5 Beds 4/1 Baths 5,091 Sq. Ft. Kathy Valente & Gregory Zies, LLC 941-685-6767 A4504528 $2,195,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 2719 Gulf Drive 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,119 Sq. Ft. Melinda Alvarez 941-704-0633 A4506596 $1,749,000

BRADENTON 6510 200th Street E 4 Beds 3 Baths 4,185 Sq. Ft. Leslie Emery & Aaron Corr 941-400-9710 A4489175 $1,675,000

BRADENTON 20504 65th Avenue E 4 Beds 2/1 Baths 3,738 Sq. Ft. Aaron Corr & Leslie Emery 941-840-2346 A4509727 $1,599,000

SARASOTA 3501 Founders Club Drive 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,836 Sq. Ft. Richard Hearn 941-313-1591 A4497661 $1,585,000

ONA 10807 NW Lily County Line Road 3 Beds 2 Baths 2,517 Sq. Ft. Chris Baylis 941-735-4713 A4508800 $1,350,000

BRADENTON 6810 190th Street E 5 Beds 4 Baths 3,637 Sq. Ft. Leslie Emery & Aaron Corr 941-400-9710 A4508469 $1,299,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 7010 Vilamoura Place 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 4,117 Sq. Ft. Kristen Srur 941-350-0612 A4509169 $1,250,000

PARRISH 15306 37th Court E 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 4,681 Sq. Ft. Stacy Haas 941-587-4359 A4510606 $1,250,000

SARASOTA 1711 Baywood Way 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,358 Sq. Ft. Jami Kellogg 941-809-6931 A4488310 $1,200,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 7520 Windy Hill Cove 4 Beds 4 Baths 3,438 Sq. Ft. Natalie Alfaro 941-773-4903 A4507689 $1,190,000

SARASOTA 5925 Anise Drive 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,487 Sq. Ft. Lorraine Neal 941-350-0997 A4509323 $1,150,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 17641 Azul Drive 4 Beds 3 Baths 2,872 Sq. Ft. Gloria Bracciano 941-229-4000 A4509926 $1,150,000

BRADENTON 1523 1st Avenue W 4 Beds 3 Baths 3,500 Sq. Ft. Fran DeDona & Pam Goodwin 941-812-5023 A4505327 $1,050,000

SARASOTA 1899 Buccaneer Circle 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,942 Sq. Ft. Jami Kellogg 941-809-6931 A4505815 $995,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 4607 Balboa Park Loop 5 Beds 4 Baths 4,309 Sq. Ft. Tina Ciaccio 941-685-8420 A4511142 $950,000

SARASOTA 17773 Deer Prairie Drive 3 Beds 2 Baths 2,360 Sq. Ft. Tina Von Kessel & Brigitte Von Kessel 941-266-2848 A4504988 $899,999

SARASOTA 3624 S Lockwood Ridge Road 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 4,013 Sq. Ft. Rudy Dudon 941-234-3991 A4508564 $895,000

SARASOTA 1518 Bel Air Star Parkway 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 3,475 Sq. Ft. Cheryl Roberts 941-266-1450 A4506654 $875,000

PARRISH 3911 Twin Rivers Trail 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,557 Sq. Ft. Cheryl Roberts 941-266-1450 A4510445 $875,000

SARASOTA 4291 Highlands Bridge Road 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,524 Sq. Ft. Amy Chapman 941-225-1500 A4511153 $799,900

BRADENTON 3608 W 54th Drive W J101 & J102 4 Beds 4 Baths 3,776 Sq. Ft. Leah Secondo 941-545-4430 A4497828 $699,900

SARASOTA /PINECRAFT 3448 Sea View Street 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,994 Sq. Ft. Lise-Anne Charbonneau 941-587-3358 A4511373 $670,000

SARASOTA 3655 Egerton Circle 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,635 Sq. Ft. Lenore Treiman 941-356-9642 A4510694 $525,000

SARASOTA 5815 Fairway Lakes Drive 3 Beds 2 Baths 2,009 Sq. Ft. Gregory Zies & Kathy Valente 941-779-3081 A4511033 $440,000

SARASOTA 4274 Riverwood Avenue 3 Beds 3 Baths 1,774 Sq. Ft. Patrick Doherty & Maureen Doherty 941-993-3160 A4499452 $380,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 304 65th Avenue E 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,665 Sq. Ft. Ryndie Brusco 941-809-6913 A4508829 $340,000

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

LONGBOAT KEY 25 Lighthouse Point Drive 4 Beds 6/1 Baths 6,025 Sq. Ft. Sherri Mills 941-350-7112 A4503359 $5,600,000

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM

357413-1

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 607, 609, 611 Fern Streets & 610 Rose Street 12 Beds 6 Baths 1,568 Sq. Ft. Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4497933 $5,900,000

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

RESEARCH EDITOR

A

home in the Concession topped all transactions in this week’s real estate. Richard and Pamela Donohue sold their home at 8436 Lindrick Lane to James Rutrough Jr. and Roberta Rutrough, of Keswick, Virginia, for $2.77 million.

Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 4,082 square feet of living area.

THE LAKE CLUB

David James Brown and Johnni Gullo-Brown, of San Diego, sold their home at 7216 Whittlebury Trail to Maureen Hinkelman, of Bradenton, for $815,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,408 square feet of living area.

James and Diane Sullivan, of Grass Lake, Michigan, sold their home at 14519 Whitemoss Terrace to Mararet Mathies, trustee, of Lakewood Ranch, for $650,000. Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, two-anda-half baths, a pool and 2,412 square feet of living area. It sold for $411,000 in 2013.

H. William and Katherine Coles, of Lancaster, New York, sold their home at 14435 Whitemoss Terrace to Susan Lynn Rives, of Lakewood Ranch, for $649,000.

Built in 2013, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,844 square feet of living area. It sold for $125,900 in 2013.

Ted Fredric Thomsen and Amber Kay Thomsen, trustees, of Sarasota, sold the home at 16271 Daysailor Trail to Harvey Westervelt and Mary Lynn Westervelt, of Lakewood Ranch, for $2 million. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, three-anda-half baths, a pool and 2,775 square feet of living area.

George and Patricia Miller, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their home at 14325 Stirling Drive to Joseph and Susan Brielmann for $625,000. Built in 2012, it has two bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,977 square feet of living area. It sold for $390,000 in 2015.

Joseph and Sharon Rizzo, of Sudbury, Massachusetts, sold their home at 10509 Firestone Drive to Thomas James Snyder and Angelique Lynn Snyder, of McLean, Virginia, for $1.16 million. Built in 1999, it has four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and 3,811 square feet of living area. It sold for $800,000 in January.

Robert Rodgers and Ellen Piersol, of Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, sold their home at 7625 Pine Valley St. to Robert and Isabella Fabiano, trustees, of Bradenton, for $1.05 million. Built in 1996, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,762 square feet of living area. It sold for $655,000 in May. HARBOUR WALK

Charles and Kimberley Cline, of Bettendorf, Iowa, sold their home at 528 Mast Drive to Forbes Higman and Cheryl Olivieri, of Bellevue, Washington, for $1.06 million. Built in 2012, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,430 square feet of living area. It sold for $585,000 in 2015.

COUNTRY CLUB EAST

Lenka Rautiainen, trustee, of Ontario, Canada, sold the home at 14910 Castle Park Terrace to Kelly Conklin-Penwell, of Bradenton, for $975,000. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, twoand-a-half baths, a pool and 2,795 square feet of living area. It sold for $650,000 in 2019.

AUG. 30-SEPT. 1

Neal Signature Homes LLC sold the home at 16623 Collingtree Crossing to Brian Edward Bzdawka and Amy Marie Bzdawka, of Bradenton, for $946,000. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,395 square feet of living area.

Randall and Kathleen Wright, of Bluffton, South Carolina, sold their home at 16315 Foremast Place to John and Barbara Fitzpatrick, of Lakewood Ranch, for $2.25 million. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,358 square feet of living area.

RIVER CLUB SOUTH

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

Anthony Herman, trustee, and Deborah Wilson, of Lakewood Ranch, sold the home at 14527 Leopard Creek Place to Bruce Olster and Madeleine Bransome-Olster, of Lakewood Ranch, for $605,000. Built in 2010, it has two bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,977 square feet of living area. It sold for $470,000 in 2019.

Courtesy photo

This Concession home at 8436 Lindrick Lane sold for $2.77 million. It has three bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 4,082 square feet of living area.

GREYHAWK LANDING

Richard and Margo Diener, of Sommerville, New Jersey, sold their home at 12635 Daisy Place to Dan and Tamara Coughlin, of Bradenton, for $795,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and 3,175 square feet of living area. It sold for $598,900 in 2006.

ESPLANADE

Lawrence and Jacquelyn de Angelis, trustees, of Palm City,

sold the home at 12729 Fontana Loop to Alan Barr, of Bradenton, for $791,000. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,335 square feet of living area. It sold for $429,800 in 2014.

William and Bonnie Franklin, of Bradenton, sold their home at 12765 Sorrento Way to James Grzegorczyk and Diane SouthSEE REAL ESTATE, PAGE 10B

Tina Ciaccio

8325 Lakewood Ranch Blvd | Lakewood Ranch | 941.685.8420 Tina is the #1 Top Producing Agent in sales volume at the Michael Saunders & Company Lakewood Ranch office since 2019. With nearly 2 decades in real estate, Tina’s strength lies in her ability to quickly grasp a client’s goals. She has the tact to collaborate with all players in a transaction, so her customers reach their desired result via sound marketing advice and premium class service.

Known for her marketing prowess and vibrant personality, she additionally appeared on an episode of HGTV’s House Hunters.

As a multi-year Five Star “best in client” award recipient, a Certified Luxury Home Marketing specialist, and having earned membership into the Million Dollar Guild®, Tina’s market expertise, integrity, and discretion has earned her clients’ trust, countless testimonials, and repeat referrals.

WATERLEFE

Jeffrey and Laura Bogumil, trustees, of Bradenton, sold the home at 10109 Discovery Terrace to Timothy Allan Mairn and Jodie Lynn Mairn, of Bradenton, for $945,000. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two-anda-half baths, a pool and 4,012 square feet of living area. It sold for $714,900 in 2003.

RIVERDALE REVISED

Patrick and Jean Neville, of Bradenton, sold their home at 4716 Starboard Drive to Jian Bin Pan and Qin Qin Deng, of Bradenton, for $899,500. Built in 1998, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,883 square feet of living area. It sold for $445,000 in 2003.

BRADENTON 8436 Lindrick Lane 3 Beds 4 Baths 4,161 SF A4500579 $2,765,100

SOLD

LAKEWOOD RANCH 7301 Tori Way 4 Beds 3.5 Baths 4,075 SF A4501986 $1,290,000

SOLD

LAKEWOOD RANCH 4607 Balboa Park Loop 5 Beds 4 Baths 4,309 SF A4511142 $950,000

PENDING

LAKEWOOD RANCH 5243 Napoli Run 2 Beds 2.5 Baths 2,100 SF A4508721 $685,000

PENDING

WINDING RIVER

David and Karen Hammer, trustees, of Tampa, sold the home at 14210 Ninth Terrace NE to Jeffrey William Paleczny and Karen Paleczny, trustees, of Bradenton, for $899,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,657 square feet of living area. It sold for $734,800 in 2019.

357333-1

ADAM HUGHES

9B

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

REAL ESTATE

Concession home tops sales at $2.77 million

|

Licensed Real Estate Broker

10B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

Real estate FROM PAGE 9B

three bedrooms, three baths and 2,275 square feet of living area. It sold for $402,900 in 2015.

BRIDGEWATER

well, of Bradenton, for $710,000.

Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,427 square feet of living area. It sold for $575,000 in 2019.

Risa Ann Kennedy, trustee, of Dyer, Indiana, sold the home at 5234 Castello Lane to Jeffrey Kennedy, of Chicago, for $575,000. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,232 square feet of living area. It sold for $530,000 in 2020.

Paul and Catherine Ingegnere, of Bradenton, sold their home at 13323 Torresina Terrace to Aaron Cutler, of Bradenton, for $549,900. Built in 2013, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,676 square feet of living area. It sold for $337,000 in 2019.

John and Valerie Wolf, of Bradenton, sold their home at 13206 Prima Drive to Bruce and Darcie Votipka, of Bradenton, for $545,000. Built in 2015, it has

We

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

Susan Volpi, of Bradenton, sold her home at 13616 Swiftwater Way to Alexander Spencer and Elizabeth Victoria Spencer, of Bradenton, for $750,000. Built in 2016, it has six bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,861 square feet of living area. It sold for $639,300 in 2016.

Aisha Jibreel Alexander, of St. Augustine, sold her home at 13321 Swiftwater Way to Shedrick Vaughn Dykes and Lisa Dykes, of Bradenton, for $510,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,239 square feet of living area. It sold for $350,000 in 2019.

POMELLO PARK

Arthur John McKinnin Jr. and Twilla McKibbin, of Bradenton, sold their home at 22850 61st Ave. E. to Christopher and Erin Dawson, of Bradenton, for $750,000. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,280 square feet of living area.

Agnello sold their home at 7005 Treymore Court to The Diane L. Moran Revocable Living Trust and The Mary Moran Revocable Living Trust for $700,000. Built in 1999, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,715 square feet of living area. It sold for $400,000 in 2019.

KENWOOD PARK

R. Steven Holdeman and Yvonne Marie Holdeman, of University Park, sold their home at 8163 Abingdon Court to Richard Bruce Skubel and Wannie Lim, of Bradenton, for $712,000. Built in 2002, it has two bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,237 square feet of living area. It sold for $520,000 in 2018.

the

Daniel and Theresa Barion, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their home at 13951 Wood Duck Circle to Deborah Ann Flack, of Lakewood, for $599,900. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,349 square feet of living area. It sold for $358,100 in 2004.

HIDDEN OAKS

Karl and Renee Litzenberger, of Lake Placid, sold their home at 12708 Seventh Ave. NE to David and Virginia Shaddock, of Bradenton, for $689,100. Built in 1995, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,198 square feet of living area.

MILL CREEK

Denise and Alessandro Moschin, of Sarasota, sold their home at 204 Woodview Way to Thomas Zaharakis, of Bradenton, for $705,000. Built in 1994, it has three bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 2,460 square feet of living area. It sold for $439,900 in 2018.

Julia Cecilia Kurdupski, trustees, of Gainesville, sold the home at 6305 Royal Tern Circle to Martha Weaver, of Bradenton, for $539,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,403 square feet of living area. It sold for $378,500 in 2004.

PRESERVE AT PANTHER RIDGE

William and Carolyn Nees, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their home at 22502 Night Heron Way to George Beaupre and Ana Bela Beaupre, of Bradenton, for $685,000. Built in 2001, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,495 square feet of living area. It sold for $465,000 in 2004.

Kathryn McKendree, of Lake Placid, sold her home at 13645 Third Ave. NE to Jolie Howard Ayo and Jonathan Paul Ayo, of Bradenton, for $510,000. Built in 2000, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,762 square feet of living area. It sold for $285,000 in 2003.

ONLINE See more transactions

GREENBROOK

Dan Louis Simonds and Dawn Lynnette Simonds, of Sarasota, sold their home at 14908

TREYMORE AT THE VILLAGES OF PALM AIRE

Gary Weinberg and Elizabeth

See

Bowfin Terrace to James and Ericka McGarity, of Bradenton, for $675,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,546 square feet of living area. It sold for $475,000 in 2014.

at YourObserver.com

LARGEST SELECTION OF INDOOR & OUTDOOR FANS ANYWHERE!

ENTIRE FAMILY

See How Exceptional Eye Care Can Be

Reno 17999

$

DRY EYE CARE

MYOPIA CONTROL

GLAUCOMA TREATMENT

DIABETIC EYE EXAMS

SPECIALTY CONTACT LENSES

2

Accepting Appointments at

LOCATIONS!

Inventory On Hand!

Vision Source - LWR 11151 East SR 70 Lakewood Ranch FL 34202 (941) 739-5959

363721-1

FULL SERVICE OPTICAL

Styles To Fit Every Decor!

Board Certified Optometric Physicians

| Dr. Jordan Petrosky, O.D. | Dr. Olga Sokol, O.D. www.MyVisionSource.com

Dr. Troy Bedinghaus, O.D.

360904-1

Vision Source - Parrish 10060 US Highway 301 N Parrish FL 34219 (941) 304-2015

Bradenton

E. Sarasota

1808 Cortez Rd #101 6303 Center Ring Rd #101 (941) 755-3262 (941) 355-1153

Fruit Trees SALE! ALL

Design Your Own Fan Parts & Services Available In-Store Warrannes Locaaons Naaonwide!

www.dansfancity.com

FARM & GARDEN

ON

We have a large selection of unique southwest Florida plants.

OFF

FRUIT TREES through 9/22

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

Visit us on Facebook

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

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

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

363588-1

20%

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

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

PET PICS

EAT. SLEEP.

Have photos of your four-legged family members? We want to see them! Share them at YourObserver.com/contests/pet-pics to be published online and for a chance to see them in print!

|

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

11B

CRUISE. REPEAT.

4515 15th Street East, Bradenton, FL 34203 4802 Lena Rd, Unit 101, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211

941-841-1083 www.customcarts.com

360920-1

P BY STO AND E DRIV T S E T TODAY!

FOOT PAIN?

SHAUN J. LIMON DPM

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

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

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

Serving Manatee County since 1998

OPEN BY APPOINTMENT

AND FOLLOWING CDC SAFETY PROTOCOLS MOST INSURANCE ACCEPTED 360842-1

THE SUN ALSO RISES ON HEMINGWAY: Lakewood Ranch’s Hemingway loves people, loves to give kisses and enjoys lots of treats when he is good.

941.782.8639

SCHEDULE TODAY!

11065 Gatewood Drive, Bldg C-2, Lakewood Ranch 4614 26th Street West, Bradenton | www.LimonsFoot.com

This magnificent estate is a custom John Cannon classical beauty situated on a premium .70 acre lot overlooking the pond & the 11th green of the Founders Club golf course. A wonderful split floor plan for privacy, many entertaining elements throughout this exquisite property. An upstairs bonus/media room, with a large terrace to enjoy all those beautiful sunsets admiring a myriad of birds, deer & peacefulness. The enclosed outdoor kitchen offers a fun retreat with the large glistening pool & spa to reflect the fun day with your guests sipping a beverage in front of one of the many fireplaces. This “better then new” residence is “Turn Key” beautiful offered at $2.8M

KATHY CALLAHAN 941-900-8088

364233-1

KathyCallahan@michaelsaunders.com LBKathy.com

440 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228

12B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

FORECAST

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

THURSDAY, SEPT. 16 High: 84 Low: 77 Chance of rain: 52%

FRIDAY, SEPT. 17 High: 85 Low: 78 Chance of rain: 58%

SATURDAY, SEPT. 18 High: 85 Low: 77 Chance of rain: 39%

Gordon Silver took a photo of this sandhill crane teaching her young colt to search for grubs along University Parkway in Lakewood Ranch.

SUNRISE / SUNSET

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, Sept. 16

7:16a 7:33p

Friday, Sept. 17

7:17a

7:32p

Saturday, Sept. 18

7:17a

7:31p

Sunday, Sept. 19

7:18a

7:30p

Monday, Sept. 20

7:18a

7:29p

Tuesday, Sept. 21

7:18a

7:28p

Wednesday, Sept. 22

7:19a 7:26p

MOON PHASES

Oct. 6 New

Oct. 12 First

Oct.20 Full

Oct. 28 Last

RAINFALL Monday, Sept. 6

0

Tuesday, Sept. 7

0

SUNDAY, SEPT. 19

Wednesday, Sept. 8

0

High: 87 Low: 77 Chance of rain: 31%

Friday, Sept. 10

Thursday, Sept. 9

0 0.01

Saturday, Sept. 11

0

Sunday, Sept. 12

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 41.67 in.

2021 3.65 in.

2020 42.06 in.

2020 5.78 in.

MANASOTA FLOORING INC CROSSWORD

©2021 Universal Uclick

ACROSS 1 Chew like a rodent 5 NYSE news source 8 Printer tray filler 13 Cut corners 18 Speedy competition 19 ___ butter (moisturizer) 20 Solo 21 French for "the sea" 22 And others (Abbr.)

23 Sonar sound 24 Weather-inspired mahjongg tiles 25 Wizards game setting 26 *USS Nautilus, e.g. (Hint: A chain's name is hidden across each pair of starred

941.748.4679 | Venice

POP-UP RESTAURANT by Dylan Schiff; Edited by David Steinberg

clues' answers, minus one letter that's above a black square. These letters spell something apt.)

29 *Sailor's assent 31 Spring zodiac sign 32 Common piercing sites 34 Alphabetically second mo.

35 Cul-de-___ 36 **Like a dry delivery?

39 **Competes in a lyrical battle 44 Biblical beast of burden 45 Cowboy Rogers 47 Shoes with a kitten variety

941.493.7441 | www.manasotaonline.com 104 *****Got away 107 Male cat 108 Protein in an unagi roll 109 People who can't live without video games?

111 Bugs Bunny animator Tex 112 ******Tried to hit the softball 117 ******Most influential people 120 Go in 121 Some succulents 123 "Joey" co-author Biden 124 Cozy lodgings 125 Drawn-out attack 126 Maui neighbor 127 Swedish meatball seller 128 Mother ___ (bonanza) 129 Thompson of "Creed" 130 Rose protector 131 Use thread 132 Go to and fro

43 Russian ruler, once 46 Hearty laugh 49 Fix, as torn pants 50 Go on to say 51 Marshy muck 54 "The Karate Kid" mentor 55 Squish with one's shoe 56 Hair-preserving garment 57 Expresses a view 58 Take care of 60 Doze (off) 61 TiVo, e.g.

62 Temporary castle material 63 Sporty Ford, informally 65 Little nick, perhaps 71 Family room 72 Honeybunch 73 Distinctive atmosphere 74 Snatches 76 About, in dates 77 Word before "game" or "guess" 78 Marvel villain who colDOWN lected the Infinity Stones 1 The Caribbean's Spice Isle 80 Great Lakes natives 2 Dispositions 81 Corn core 3 Trees with symbiotic ants 83 "Jurassic Park" dino 4 ___ up (rose, like tears) 84 Representative Ilhan 5 Fan's sound 85 Chicken (out) 6 Feel 86 ___'s Pie (ice cream bar) 7 Spotted big cat 91 Author Harper 8 Lab hand?

93 She betrayed Samson 9 Jamaican swimmer 94 Co Sign in front of a new Atkinson business 10 Small horse 97 Partially enclosed porch 11 Makes beloved 98 Long voyage 12 Coast Guard's operation 99 Certify to be true 48 Pump purchase 76 Sugar source 13 Hockey shot sound 100 Canadian dollar coin, 49 Large champagne bottle 78 Sigma follower 14 Mario ___ Tour slangily 79 Ten-sided shape 52 Contents of 21-Across 15 "Doesn't matter to me" 101 Hams it up 53 Surname of two U.S. 82 ****Spinning one's 16 Like lowly labor 102 Power tool giant wheels presidents 17 Move like a horse 103 Faces and such in texts 56 ***College URL closer 87 ****Dressing for gradu- 19 Sauna's place 105 One may contain a whole 59 ***Similar people ation 27 Medium's claim, briefly chicken 64 Flipped over 88 Apologetic 28 Dude 106 Is of use 66 Kanga's kid 89 Unaccounted for, briefly 30 Differences some couples 110 Sharp uptick 67 Flower holder 90 Makes up lines will always have 113 They're tapped at parties 68 Thus far 92 Prefix for "system" 33 Small swimsuit 114 Region 69 Zest source 93 Denounces 37 Squabble 115 Toddler's taboo 70 Verified the age of, 95 "___-haw!"

38 Nice refusal?

116 Stuff in a camper's pack informally 96 Ab ___ (Latin for "from 40 Brown, as meat 118 Played the trumpet 72 Stable place? the egg") 41 Chimney passage 119 Pie ___ mode 74 Cabbage type 99 *****"An Essay on Criti- 42 ___ Hawkins dance 122 Sloth, e.g.

75 "Your point is?" cism" writer

349236-1

349236-1

941.355.8437 | Bradenton

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.

"CUZGTFPGCFIG RA RGXFT KFRKBF MFYPNZF 'U'C MFGGFT GXPI HRN PTF' UZ ZNYX P ZPL KPTG RA GXF VRTBL."

CFBUZZP BFR

"CPBSY KAY SYUK KANWV RFDMI SY KF LFHVYK SYNWV HNVAK FH RHFWV PSFDK EYFEMY PWI TDUK VF PMFWV LFH KAY HNIY." EANMNE HFKA Puzzle Two Clue B equals Y

Sarasota

KITCHENS, BATHROOMS, BEDROOMS & MORE

Puzzle One Clues A equals F

HARDWOOD

© 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

9-16-21

Made for where you live. Here!

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

RED PAGES 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.

4 FT glass patio table set, brown wicker frame, including 4 chairs LWR. $180.

941-388-8916 BIKES: 26” 18 speed Women’s Mongoose $50. Men’s 26” D Vega 18 speed $50. 26” Men’s Schwinn 21 speed, cruiser $50.

941-350-9431.

CEMENT PELICAN 2 feet tall $65. Ceramic garden stool 2’ tall $70. Golf putter 10K gold plated $65. 941-359-8460 DELUXE EMPTY American Eagle silver dollar coin album, very nice. $20 941-755-6864 FRESH PAINTING SIESTA KEY BEACH scene. Oil on canvas/framed & signed. $150.

941/776-0034 LEATHER SLEEPER Sofa, Tan color, good condition no tears. $175 Mattress never used.

941-907-0452

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

Personal and confidential.

Please call Marc: 941-321-0707.

RED PAGES AD RATES

OR RENT ANNA MARIA FO ISLAND UPDATED 5 STAR CONDO. Available September 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

Autos Wanted CASH FOR YOUR CAR We come to you!

Ho Ho Buys cars.

941-270-4400.

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

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

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

SELL YOUR STUFF HERE!

15% DISCOUNT FOR 4-WEEK RUN

Advertise items less than $200 for

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

YourObserver.com/RedPages

PLACE YOUR AD: Call: 941-955-4888 Fax: 941-362-4808 Email: redpages@ yourobserver.com

Musical Instruments YAMAHA BABY GRAND Piano, 5’3”, Ebony polished finish, made in Japan, recently tuned . $4,900 OBO 941-726-8168

Sporting Goods

LOVESEAT/SOFA 6 1/2 ‘, like new, downsizing, very formal, sacrifice $125. 941-358-5313

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

auto

TWO SLIPS BOATHOUSE ON LONGBOAT. For sale by owner. Slips 2304 and 1203. Both currently leased, cash positive. Free indoor boat storage, unlimited in-out. Monohull only, max 8.5’ beam, 30’ LOA. $125,000 for both. 941-951-8929.

Condos/Apts. for Rent

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

SELL YOUR STUFF FAST!

GARAGE SALE Advertise as low as $17.50 per week!

CALL

941-955-4888 YourObserver.com/RedPages

FREE!

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

Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

Real Estate Wanted WM wants to buy home for sale by owner. Deposit and terms negotiable and according to the owner.

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

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

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

CLEAN OUT YOUR GARAGE! CALL 941-955-4888

Cleaning BRAZILIAN CLEANING Service by Maria. Residential.

Meticulous Cleaning. Excellent References. Free Estimates.

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

Landscaping/ Lawn Services SEARAY SPRINKLER SERVICES Repairs, Additions, Drip, Timer/Head Adjustment Call Rick Today: Office 941-920-0775

This week’s Crossword answers

Advertise your business or service in the Observer

RED PAGES CALL TODAY 941-955-4888

Painting CARLO DATTILO Painting Licensed & insured. Interior/ Exterior painting including drywall repair and retexturing.

Wallpaper installation & removal, pressure washing.

Residential & commercial, condos. Honest & reliable.

Free estimates. 941-744-1020.

35+ years experience.

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers

Puzzle One Solution: “Mistreatment of other people because ‘I’m better than you are’ is such a sad part of the world.”

Melissa Leo

Puzzle Two Solution: “Maybe the best thing would be to forget being right or wrong about people and just go along for the ride.”

Philip Roth

This week’s Sudoku answers

©2021 NEA, Inc.

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

Boat Slips for Rent/Sale

You’re only cheating yourself.

Items Under $200

COINS, STAMPS & PAPER MONEY WANTED We are always buying! Suncoast Stamp & Coin 8520 S Tamiami Trail Sarasota FL 34238 (941) 921-9761 WWW.SUNCOAST STAMP.COM

peekers’ place

stuff

Antiques/ Collectibles

real estate

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

Paint the town RED!

DEADLINES: Classifieds - Monday at Noon

home services

INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888

redpages@yourobserver.com • yourobserver.com/redpages

©2021 Universal Uclick

CALL 941-955-4888 YourObserver.com/RedPages

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

Aluminum

Clock Repair

Health

GET YOUR LIFE BACK!

Christo’s Clock Repair

Do You Have Neck or Low Back Pain?

Do You Want To Avoid Surgery?

4630 5TH ST W BRADENTON

“IF IT DOESN’T TIC, TOC TO ME.”

“Specializing in 6” Seamless Gutters”

Give Us a Call - We Can Help

FREE CONSULTATION 941.358.2224

CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT

941-773-0875 • 941-932-5505

941.650.9790 YoderAluminum.com

Owner / Operator Insured

Don Christo, Sr., Horologist

363487

Auto Service

Computer

SELL YOUR CAR!

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

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

FAST • EASY • SAFE

941.270.4400

5-Star Rated 364260

HoHoBuysCars.com

Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression provides safe, gentle & effective relief for upwards of 90% of patients that qualify for care.

Board Certified in the specialty of non-surgical spinal decompression

DR. DAVID CIFRA, DC

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

Pegatronics.com 363489

WE COME TO YOU

363103

Dustin Yoder

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

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.com

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

363980

14B

Home Services

941-735-3362

Beauty

Doors

SERVING YOU IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME

Sliding Glass Door Repair

Are You Having Dryer Difficulties?

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

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

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

363101

Residential

Commercial

363124

RED PAGES Bring Results | 941-955-4888

Furniture Repair FurnitureSales Sales &&Repairs Furniture Repairs Cushions • Slings • Re-powdercoating Cushions • Slings • Umbrellas

941-504-0903 941-504-0903

363115 38056

Patio Furniture Repairs.com patio RepaiRS / DELIVERY FREE PICKUP ONSITE QUOTES outdoor furniture experts• •FREE www .patiorepairs .net

WITH THE RED PAGES

Call to reserve your ad space: 941-955-4888

Servicing LWR, Parrish and NE Bradenton

Kitchen/Bath Remodeling CALL BEFOREYOU YOU FALL CALL BEFORE FALL

GRAB BARS COMPLETE INSTALLATION PACKAGE

$

Doors

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

Window Repairs • Sliding Glass Door Repairs Sliding Glass Door Deadbolts

10% OFF

235

$ 235

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

941.966.0333 LIFETIME GUARANTEE • LICENSED • BONDED • INSURED COVERAGE AREA: LAKEWOOD RANCH TO S. VENICE

DRGRABBARS.COM

THE GRAB BAR GUY GLENN KROECKER

2 PANELS OR MORE

Call us today! 941.628.8579 FREE IN-HOM ESTIMATEE S

(cell) 780-3346 Licensed & Insured

363125

954-1878

For the Month of July.

www.ezslider.com

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

SHOWER & BATH MAKEOVERS Cleaned - Regrouted - Caulked - Sealed

Call John 941.377.2940

Free Estimates • Sarasota Resident Since 1974

www.showerandbathsarasota.com

RED PAGES. MADE FOR WHERE YOU LIVE. HERE! TO ADVERTISE CALL 941-955-4888 OR VISIT YOUROBSERVER.COM/REDPAGES

364253

363659

GROW YOUR BUSINESS

ED’S RAIN MAKER IRRIGATION 363392

Cleaning

Irrigation

363126

AMANDA 424-333-0713 | rockstarmobilehair@gmail.com www.rockstarmobilehairsalon.com

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

363105

“FIX IT - DON’T REPLACE”

363123

941-705-5468

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

Landscaping & Lawn

Rescreening & Repairs

941-345-5264

specialty screens / screw replacement / paint

Allison J. Abizaid, M.A.

Transportation Doors and more!

Manufacture and workmanship

Personal Gardening Services | Designer

Warranties

SMALL ENGINE REPAIRS

363987

363606

941-739-5102

5002 LENA RD, UNIT 107, BRADENTON, 34211 WWW.SMALLENGINEREPAIRS.US

Roofing

Painting

Bisson Roofing Inc.

UNIQUE PAINTING & PRESSURE WASHING SERVICES

Specializing in Reroofs and Repairs FREE Estimates • 30 Years Experience

Complete Interior & Exterior Painting

364255

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

Pressure Washing

941 - 748 - 7400 Owner Supervises Every Job

www.bissonroofing.com

Kenneth Fuhlman Inc.

Honesty, Integrity and Pride

Building & Roofing Contractor

AFTER

BEFORE

| scaperotta@aol.com

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

Italian American Owned

RED PAGES Bring Results | 941-955-4888

941-626-3194

Licensed & Insured CCC - 058059 CBC - 1253936 363981

ROAD HUGGER found here.

Whether you’re looking for high performance or a gas sipper, we have the listings to find your next ride.

RED PAGES Made for where you live. Here!

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

Windows Res./Com.

Lic./Ins.

& Pressure C Window lean t e s ing wn as Sunrise Win o n k Sun y l r e d Form Serving Longboat Key Since 2005

25

UP TO

STANDARD WINDOWS

ows

120

$

INCLUDING SCREENS, TRACKS, MIRRORS & FANS

RC0067420 • Lic. & Ins.

363128

Power Washing

941-544-1066

Insured

941-270-1561

SALES & REPAIRS - MOWERS, GENERATORS, TRIMMERS, PRESSURE WASHERS, CHAIN SAWS, BLOWERS, ENGINES

363483

“No Job Too Small”

GHOSTS IN MOTION, LLC

941.928.0561 • GhostsInMotion.com No hourly minimum. * Rates all inclusive

SPECIAL 00 5

$

senior citizen discount. www.sunsetwindowcleaningsrq.com

Purified water window cleaning available!!

Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES | 941- 284 - 5880

CREATE BUZZ!

Advertise your business in the Red Pages.

Call 941-955-4888

363118

Licensed

LWR to or from SRQ $100.

363518

Eldridge Re-Screen

Lawn Care

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

Introductory Special (941) 345-5264 Only!

September

363494

363127

941.400.0431

Serving Sarasota/Manatee Area Since 2004

363117

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

• Roofs • PoolCages Cages•• Decks Decks ••Driveways • Roofs • Pool Driveways • Deck/Paver Sealing • Gutter Cleaning • Deck/PaverAnd Sealing • And Much More Much More!

15B

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

Satisfaction guarantee Satisfaction Guarantee Pool cage Restoration/ Rescreening specialists Manufacture and Workmanship Warranties

No Job is too Small!

gbyallison@yahoo.com gardensbyallison.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

Screening

GARDENS BY ALLISON

Pressure Washing

|

16B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

it’s never been quicker & easier to

live in Harmony

Harmony at Lakewood Ranch

NEW ONE AND T WO-LEVEL TOWNHOMES STARTING FROM THE MID $300S. The next level of townhome living is here. Harmony at Lakewood Ranch offers thoughtfully-designed townhomes with 1,333 to 1,932 square feet in the Nation’s #1 master-planned community. Harmony residents enjoy fun-filled community amenities including a resort-style pool, clubhouse with fitness center, and a playground. This convenient location is in the hub of Lakewood Ranch activities and dining, shopping, recreation, A-rated schools, and C.O.R.E. • Stylish one and two-story townhomes • Top Lakewood Ranch location close to CORE, town centers, great schools and I-75 • Low maintenance, easy living and low fees

• Community amenities for all ages: • Pool with lap lanes • Clubhouse with fitness center • Tot lot

RECEIVE $5,000 TOWARD CLOSING COSTS* ON SELECT TOWNHOMES New Home Gallery and four decorated townhome models are open daily: 11802 Sky Acres Terrace | Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211 (just off New Haven Blvd., North of Rangeland Pkwy.)

364416-1

To connect with our team directly, please call 941-877-6979 or visit mattamyhomes.com to schedule an appointment.

Visit MattamyHomes.com or see a Mattamy New Home Counselor for further details and important legal disclaimers. This is not an offer in states where registration is required. Void where prohibited by law. Prices, specifications, terms, conditions, offers, home site and plan availability are subject to change or revocation without prior notice or obligation. Photographs and videos are solely for illustrative purposes and should never be relied upon. Furniture is not included in the price of the home. Mattamy Homes reserves the right to make changes at any time without notice. *Offer may not be redeemed for cash or equivalent. Offers are limited to individuals that purchase their home directly from Mattamy Homes. Incentive varies by home, homesite, closing date and community and is available on a predetermined number of homes. Offer available on new homes if a new purchase agreement is fully executed between 9/07/2021 and 9/30/2021 and home closes and fully funds upon completion. Home purchase agreements fully executed prior to 9/07/2021 are excluded. Offers, incentives and seller contributions are subject to certain terms, conditions and restrictions, which include use of designated lenders and closing agents. Certain incentives could affect the loan amount. To be eligible to participate in Closing Cost incentive, buyer must utilize Seller’s affiliated title company (Mattamy Homes Title, LLC) and affiliated lender (Mattamy Home Funding, LLC, NMLS# 64022) for financing to receive a closing cost contribution at closing for the payment of approved standard closing costs; which exclude discount points, prepaid items, and any HOA fees. Buyer is not required to utilize the Affiliated Title Company or to finance through Affiliated Lender to purchase the home, but failure to utilize Affiliated Lender will result in buyer being ineligible to participate. Total closing cost contribution subject to Mattamy’s contribution limitations based on mortgage program and loan-to-value guidelines that are outside of Mattamy’s control. At closing, Mattamy will provide to buyer a credit in an amount not to exceed the closing cost incentive available on that select home, as determined on your Loan Estimate, excluding prepaids. Offer is subject to borrower meeting approval guidelines. Rates and terms are subject to change without notice. Contact a Mattamy Home Funding LLC Loan Officer for financing details, or a Mattamy Homes New Home Counselor for home purchase details. Copyright © 2020 Mattamy Homes. E. & O.E. Builder’s #CGC1524054 , CBC1261948, CGC1513363 MATTPA235