ECO13119

E A ST COUNTY

Observer Lakewood Ranch’s weekly newspaper since 1998

Photo exhibit roars

PAGE 4B

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

•

FREE THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

VOLUME 21, NO. 11

Willis Smith among Mote Marine finalists Candidates narrowed to build the Science Education Aquarium. PAGE 5A YOUR TOWN

Coyote contact part of local life File photo

Central Park attack illustrates need to protect small pets. SEE PAGE 3A

Where will you take us?

Come fly with us, we’ll fly, we’ll fly away ... in our new It’s Read Everywhere photo contest, that is.

Over the years, we’ve been everywhere from the pyramids of Egypt to the Great Wall of China.

But that doesn’t mean we’re jaded. We’re just as excited about where you’ll take us in this year’s contest, which runs until the end of October. The grand prize is two $250 vouchers on Allegiant Airlines, our 2019 contest sponsor.

When you pack your bags, don’t forget to bring a copy of the Observer. Then submit it at YourObserver.com/contests/itsreadeverywhere.

Pam Eubanks

Central Park resident Julie Young was standing by her Chihuahua, Pumpkin, when a coyote grabbed the dog. They were a foot from her lanai door, on the concrete patio. Young says she has learned to be more aware of her surroundings.

Designed by love

File photo

Elfish ambition Robert E. Willis Elementary School fifth-grader Morgan Cunningham (above) won the Elf on the Shelf contest held at Main Street at Lakewood Ranch.

She won a $50 gift certificate to Lakewood Ranch Cinemas. She said her favorite elf to find was the zipliner elf in front of I Wish.

Lakewood Ranch’s priciest home was built using a family blueprint.

SEE PAGE 8A Courtesy photo

This Lake Club home lists for $7,495,000.

BLACK On the ball.

INSIDE

TIE

2A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

Pam Eubanks

Florida Boat Tours owner Denise Kleiner and employee Brandon Palazzo are eager to share their love of nature with the community at the new Jiggs Landing Outpost.

Fishing for new business Florida Boat Tours takes command of the concession at Jiggs Landing.

PAM EUBANKS SENIOR EDITOR

D

enise Kleiner loves life along the Braden River.

Now she gets to share that passion in a new way.

Her business, Florida Boat Tours, has taken over as concessionaire at Manatee County’s Jiggs Landing preserve.

Residents already can rent the pavilions, cabins and kayaks and schedule boat tours through an online booking system, but Kleiner has changes in store for the concession area itself, which will be renamed Jiggs Landing Outpost.

“We envision the outpost as a gathering place for the community,” Kleiner said. “We want to

offer convenient, quality goods.

We see the opening of the concession as a bridge for us to share the love we have of the river and wildlife with the community.”

Kleiner hopes to turn the concession area into a retro space that pays homage to the original Jiggs Landing Fish Camp, which opened in 1944 — 75 years ago this year.

It is under renovation now, but by the time Kleiner holds the grand opening March 16 for Jiggs Landing Outpost, there will be ice cream dipping cabinets with 12 flavors of Big Olaf ice cream, coffee and tea, baked goods from a local bakery and soups, salads and sandwiches for purchase from the neighboring Linger Lodge Restaurant.

The concession also will have T-shirts, eco-focused souvenirs and artisan crafts, such as bird earrings made from recycled cereal boxes. A state-of-the-art refrigerated bait vending machine will provide worms and crickets to fisherman.

On Sunday afternoons, the post will offer live music.

To assist with operations, Kleiner has brought in nature guide and boat captain Brandon Palazzo, who has guided boat and kayak tours in Homosassa, Costa Rica and other places. Both Kleiner and Palazzo are U.S. Coast Guard certified captains.

They’ll give boat tours of the Braden River on Duffy USA-made electric boats, offering group and private tours educating guests about wildlife on the Braden River.

Kleiner has operated Florida Boat Tours since March 1, 2018, and said business “took off.”

“I couldn’t believe the response,” she said.

She was eager to expand when the opportunity became available.

She and Palazzo hope to make Jiggs Landing a destination for ecotourism and for environmental education. The boat tours already are used to educate visitors about the river’s native wildlife, but the pair hope to create other educational opportunities.

With permission from Manatee County, which owns and operates the park, they hope eventually to enhance the park by adding native wildflowers to an existing “grow zone” area between the park’s entrance and grass overflow parking area. The “grow zone” or an area to promote the growth of natural grasses and wildflowers.

Palazzo said he would like to add more grow zones and other features that could be used for education. For example, water from rain gutters could empty into rain barrels for drip irrigation systems to accommodate more garden areas between or around buildings.

“It’s going to be so beautiful it’s going to inspire more people to grow native plants,” Palazzo said.

Along the boardwalk, he wants to clear out invasive species and restore the natural ecosystem. He and Kleiner hope such areas can be places used to teach residents about native plants and wildlife and how to incorporate native plants into their own yards.

“It will show people it can be beautiful and native,” Palazzo said. “We want this to be an educational hub. It will be a fun place and an educational place for adults and children.”

Kleiner said, “We want to bring the community together.”

Shop savings throughout the store & at BeallsFlorida.com

SAVINGS PASS

EXTRA

20

%

OFF

YOUR PURCHASE

Sale, regular & clearance merchandise Excludes BEVs & select brands WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 30TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2019 Use promo code 20SAVE on BeallsFlorida.com

GET

BEALLS BUCKS

for every $50 you spend

Earn a

Receive $10 Bealls Bucks when you make a qualifying merchandise purchase of $50 or more (before taxes) in Bealls Stores only. Bealls Bucks, Coast2Coast Rewards® & dollar-off discounts will be applied prior to percent-off total purchase discounts. Maximum of $120 Bealls Bucks awarded per guest. Bealls Bucks have no cash value and can be redeemed in-store only at Bealls Stores. Bealls Bucks must be presented and surrendered at time of purchase; any remaining balance will be forfeited. Bealls Bucks cannot be earned on purchases of gift cards or applied to prior purchases, gift cards, taxes or existing Bealls Florida credit balances. Not valid at Bealls Outlet Stores. Offer cannot be earned or combined with Employee Discount. OP13A

REWARD

for enrolling!

STACK & SAVE! Rewards + Coupons

EXCLUSIONS: BEVs (Bealls Extreme Values), Birkenstock®, Cobian®, Columbia, Hook & Tackle®, Huk™, Levi’s®, Life Is Good®, Melissa & Doug®, Natural Life®, Nike®, Pelagic®, Reef®, Sakroots®, Simply Southern®, Under Armour®, Vionic® and additional online exclusions may apply.

Valid for use on a qualifying merchandise purchase in Bealls Stores, by phone at 800-569-9038, on Click&Find® kiosks and on BeallsFlorida. com only. Bealls Bucks, Coast2Coast Rewards® & dollar-off discounts will be applied prior to percent-off total purchase discounts. Savings Pass must be presented at time of purchase. Limit one (1) Savings Pass per purchase. Cannot be applied to prior purchases, gift card purchases, existing Bealls Florida credit balances, taxes, or shipping charges and cannot be used with Employee Discount or any other offer. Savings Pass is applied to qualifying items on a prorated basis; returns will be credited at the return price on your receipt. Not valid at Bealls Outlet.

Bealls Stores & BeallsFlorida.com are operated by Bealls Stores, Inc. and Beall’s Westgate Corporation. SP01

Visit BeallsFlorida.com/ rewards for full Terms and Conditions.

Go to BeallsFlorida.com for hours & locations. Bealls Stores & BeallsFlorida.com are operated by Bealls Stores, Inc. and Beall’s Westgate Corporation. GE01

296829-1

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

THE BITING TRUTH Coyotes are here to stay even as their environment shrinks.

PAM EUBANKS SENIOR EDITOR

L

ike any other night, Julie Young picked up her 2- p o u n d C h i h u a h u a , Pumpkin, and carried her outside her lanai Jan. 20 so the dog could relieve herself.

Young sat Pumpkin down on the grass, just inches past the edge of her concrete patio.

The sliding glass door to the Central Park home was left open as Young waited for Pumpkin to finish. The two turned around together to go back inside.

But they didn’t know a coyote was watching. “(Pumpkin) was literally at my feet,” Young said. “As we turned to come in a foot from the door, the coyote came from the side bushes.”

It grabbed Pumpkin before Young realized what was happening.

“I could have petted that coyote

COYOTE ENCOUNTERS n If you see a coyote, make noise and raise up your arms to appear larger. n Never run from a coyote. n If you see a coyote and it demonstrates “unusual behavior,” such as approaching you or chasing a jogger, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission’s Southwest Region Office at 863-648-3200, or after business hours, 888-4043922.

if I’d had reached for it,” she said.

Pumpkin was gone. Young spent much of the night crying, but wants the incident to help others be more aware of their surroundings.

Like alligators, coyotes are commonplace in Florida. In some East County neighborhoods, residents can hear them howling at night. Sightings are rare in some communities, and not so rare in others.

Often, those on the social networking service nextdoor.com note when a coyote is spotted, such as one that was walking Jan. 25 along Top Minnow Lane in Greenbrook.

Ed Straight, president of the Anna Maria Island-based wildlife rehabilitation group Wildlife Inc., said coyotes are common in the area, but seem to have become more intrusive over the past two months. He took at least 30 calls during a two-week period around Christmas about coyotes sleeping in people’s driveways and yards.

“They’ve just been chased out of wherever their environment was and they’re adapting,” Straight said. “As they continue to bulldoze areas where they had been, they’re confused, and they don’t know where to go. You find them wandering around. They don’t seem to know where to go to hide.

“We have them walking around the streets of Bradenton Beach, around (parts of) Bradenton. We had one walking around the concession stand at Coquina Beach a few days ago.”

Straight said he saw problems

Courtesy photo

Ten-year-old Pumpkin was taken by a coyote outside her house Jan. 20.

Photo courtesy Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Coyotes are found in all 67 of Florida’s counties, although the number of them is unknown.

with coyotes first in 2014 in the Village of Cortez in Bradenton when there was a large outdoor cat population. The coyotes had found an easy food source. With that came an explosion in the coyote population since coyotes bear more offspring when they have more food.

“We’re going to have to learn to live with coyotes because they’re too embedded in the United States,” Straight said. “They’re in every county in Florida.”

He says feral cat populations are everywhere and larger than you might expect. He said such populations are a main reason coyotes are coming into residential areas. The coyotes themselves are inquisitive and appear unafraid of people. He said making loud noises and chasing them away is an important step to keeping them off an individual’s property.

“If people don’t continue to frighten them, then they start feeling more comfortable,” Straight said.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Southwest Region spokeswoman Melody Kilborn said as the human population increases in an area, there are bound to be more human-coyote interactions.

Although there are confirmed attacks on pets, there have been none reported on humans, the FWC reports. She said it’s hard to say why coyotes come to particular areas — there’s debate as to whether development attracts them because it provides an easy food supply or runs them off their natural habitat — but coyotes can live just about anywhere.

“They’re really well adapted to rural, urban and suburban areas, and they eat a variety of food,” she said. “They eat rodents. They can also eat small mammals, which is where the concern is for small dogs. We know that human attacks from coyotes are very rare.”

Kilborn said there are no organizations that specifically track coyote populations in Florida, but FWC knows coyotes live in all 67 counties and in every U.S. state except Hawaii. She said hunting coyotes does little to deter

“They’ve just been chased out of wherever their environment was and they’re adapting.

As they continue to bulldoze areas where they had been, they’re confused and they don’t know where to go.

— Ed Straight, president of Wildlife Inc.

the population, for the species responds by producing babies younger and having bigger litters, allowing for coyote populations to swell quickly.

Kilborn said the FWC encourages pet safety, like being aware of your surroundings, keeping your pet on a short leash (not retractable) and carrying something, like a soda can filled with pebbles, to make noise if a coyote comes near.

Making loud noises and other measures meant to scare coyotes is referred to as “hazing.”

“What you are wanting to do is make that coyote uncomfortable and to make them respect you and your property,” Kilborn said.

Young said Pumpkin’s death has reminded her to be more aware of her surroundings and to learn about hazing coyotes, so they stay away from her property.

She had always thought about hawks and alligators stealing her dogs, but never a coyote.

“I’d never given it a second thought about it before,” Young said. “I’d never seen (coyotes) around here before. I wish I had looked around my environment.”

Manatee County spokesman Nicholas Azzara said Manatee County Animal Services oversees dogs and cats only and any complaints about coyotes are directed to FWC. He said he was not aware of any discussion by Manatee County commissioners or public requests for a wildlife sanctuary or some sort of process to provide habitat for animals displaced by development.

3A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

Discussion looms over contract for superintendent With accusations pending by the Florida Department of Education that interim Superintendent Cynthia Saunders has violated state statutes and rules, the School District of Manatee County board will consider offering Saunders a three-year contract Feb. 12.

Board member Charlie Kennedy said he supports Saunders, but believes the board should delay a decision until the state renders a final decision.

Board member Gina Messenger said she wants to hear more from the public and other board members before she makes up her mind.

Two of the five board members, Scott Hopes and Chairman Dave Miner, said Saunders should be hired immediately.

Hopes said the administrative complaint filed against Saunders is incorrect, and the issue identified was immediately corrected. He said he is focused on doing what’s best for the district, not on how the public sees the situation.

“We are responsible for making decisions related to the operation, financing and leadership based on what is the right thing to do for the district,” Hopes said.

Hopes said the agreement being considered has an easyout for the district should the findings against Saunders’ be substantiated. She could be terminated immediately with cause or with 90 days notice without cause.

Hopes said the district needs to hire 300 educators to

summer.

Manatee County will host a meeting about the future preserve at 7 p.m. Feb. 4 at Linger Lodge Restaurant, 7205 85th St. Court E., Bradenton. Topics will include wildfire mitigation, the treatment of invasive, exotic plants and the preliminary timeline for opening the preserve.

For information, contact Ray Vinson at raymond.vinson@ mymanatee.org.

County begins search for new administrator File photo

Cynthia Saunders has served as interim superintendent of the School District of Manatee County since June.

staff new schools, fill top-level administrative positions and address other needs that make hiring Saunders immediately in the district’s “best interest … when we have no one to take her place.”

“I’m quite comfortable moving forward,” Hopes said, noting he met with Florida Department of Education officials to get firsthand knowledge of the facts. “I’ve not heard anything to give me pause.”

Preserve parcels combined into one Manatee County commissioners accepted a special warranty deed Jan. 15 from the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast Inc. for an 11.6-acre property at 6820 93rd St. E., Bradenton.

The parcel, the homestead

for the late Carl Bergstresser, now will be combined with a roughly 33-acre property Manatee County purchased last year from Neal Land Ventures.

Combined, the properties, which have a conservation easement to prevent them from being developed, create a roughly 44-acre preserve along the Braden River. It is located at the western end of Clubhouse Drive, between the River Club and Braden Woods communities.

“Now, it’s consolidated to a preserve we can effectively manage,” Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Director Charlie Hunsicker said.

The county soon will begin creating trails, installing fencing and adding gates that will limit park access to sunrise to sunset. Hunsicker said he expects trails to open by the end of

Manatee County commissioners plan to temporarily appoint Deputy County Administrator Cheri Coryea to the county’s top-level post when Manatee County Administrator Ed Hunzeker retires March 1. Coryea will serve in an interim position as the commission conducts a search for a new administrator.

Coryea has worked for the county for 26 years and assumed her role as deputy county administrator in December 2017.

Commissioners must amend an existing policy that requires the county’s leader to have a bachelor’s degree to make Coryea’s appointment official.

Coryea said she left school one semester early to care for a family member and never finished her degree, she said.

“I’ve been working ever since,” she said.

The policy change will allow an existing county employee serving in a deputy administrator position to take the administrator post for up to one year.

It does not waive the degree requirement for a permanent administrator.

The board is expected to vote on the policy change and Coryea’s appointment at its Feb. 12 meeting.

During their discussions Jan. 22, commissioners were divided about whether a college degree is needed for such a role, with Commissioners Carol Whitmore, Reggie Bellamy and Priscilla Whisenant Trace noting experience is often the best education.

“The experience you gather as a person doing a job ... is also worth consideration,” Trace said.

Bellamy said, “My concern about the college level is not at a high level. My concern is job performance and having the ability to keep the team together.”

Commissioners Vanessa Baugh, Steve Jonsson and Misty Servia said they preferred having a degree for the toplevel post.

Baugh encouraged Coryea to finish her degree so she could apply for the full-time post. She said she supports Coryea and believes she can do the administrator job, but was not willing to remove the educational requirement from the county’s policy.

“Basically what we’re doing is we’re lowering our standards. I think that is very important for a county administrator (to have college degree),” Baugh said.

“The administrator is the top position. This is coming from a business sense.”

EAST COUNTY

Observer 8130 Lakewood Main St., Suite D207, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 PHONE: 941-755-5357 | WEBSITE: YourObserver.com

TO EMAIL US Email press releases, announcements and Letters to the Editor to: Jay Heater, jheater@yourobserver.com

TO ADVERTISE Display Advertising: To obtain information,

OUTDATED BATHROOM?

call Emma Burke at 941-366-3468, Ext. 344.

Classified Advertising / Service Directory: For information and rates, or to place an ad,

WE CAN HELP!

call 941-955-4888. Hours 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. To place a classified ad online, visit YourObserver.com, or email your ad to classified@yourobserver.com.

TO SUBSCRIBE

Affordable Solutions For: Kitchen Remodel - Bath Makeover - Living & Office Space

To subscribe: Please call Donna Condon at 941-366-3468, Ext. 301, or email dcondon@yourobserver.com.

MAIL DELIVERY SUBSCRIPTION RATES

LIKE US Observer Group

First-Class

Canada

One year / $200

One year / $250

Six months / $160

Six months / $200

Three months / $128

Three months / $160

WATCH US

YourObserverVideo

FOLLOW US

Schedule an appointment with our design team today!

@ObserverGroup

941.306.5950

LAKEWOOD RANCH SHOWROOM LOCATED IN SAN MARCO PLAZA 8205 Natures Way, Unit 115 Lakewood Ranch, Fl 34202 TheKitchenBathSource.com

297515-1

295049-1

NEWS BRIEFS

4A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

5A

Local builder hopes to nail major project Aquarium plans to become iconic gateway to Sarasota and Manatee counties.

JAY HEATER MANAGING EDITOR

M

ote President and CEO Michael Crosby was addressing some of Lakewood Ranch’s most influential residents Jan. 23 at Gold Coast Eagle Distributing when he mentioned the iconic Sydney Opera House in Australia.

He believes the planned $130 million Mote Science Education Aquarium at Nathan Benderson Park in Sarasota could make a similar impression on the 42 million people a year who drive past on Interstate 75.

“This will be a gateway for our community,” Crosby said.

Could that gateway be built by a local company?

Crosby confirmed Lakewood Ranch builder Willis Smith Construction is among the finalists to get the job.

Mote Marine’s Dan Bebak, vice president of aquarium, education and outreach, said interviews with potential builders are being conducted in the first quarter.

The job wasn’t opened to proposals. Bebak said only a limited number of firms nationally have experience with such a prospect.

In February 2018, when the

aquarium project was announced, Mote had intimated no local builder had the experience to handle the project, but obviously Willis Smith has changed some minds.

Crosby also noted that “some interesting partnerships have emerged” as unnamed local builders have joined forces to enhance their chances of landing the opportunity.

Part of the assignment will be specialty engineering, constructing aquariums and tanks that will hold 1.2 million gallons of water at 8.8 pounds per gallon.

David Sessions, president and CEO of Willis Smith Construction, said the builder is honored to be considered.

“It will be spectacular,” Sessions said of the aquarium, which will be 5 feet taller than the Nathan Benderson Park finish tower (86 feet).

Sessions talked about Florida Polytechnic University’s 162,000-square-foot Science and Technology Building along Interstate 4 just northeast of Lakeland and how it commands the attention of everyone who passes. He said the aquarium will have a similar impact.

“This will be an iconic landmark for the community,” said Sessions, who said Willis Smith is among the three finalists for the project.

The project would have a special place in Sessions’ heart.

“My kids (Haley and Douglas)

were able to experience Mote Marine Lab on the island growing up,” he said. “My daughter (who is now 27) still talks fondly about it.

“Imagine what a facility like this will do to raise awareness. It will be a reflection of what we are as a community. I am so excited.”

Mote Marine is having discussions with Sarasota and Manatee counties about monetary support for the project. Sarasota has been asked to provide $20 million.

Manatee County Commissioner Vanessa Baugh said she would support Manatee County pledging financial support to the project, although she didn’t specify an amount.

“Think about the contributions this aquarium will make to the education of our children,” Baugh said. “And imagine the tourists who will be going to Mote Marine.

Those tourists will be going to (Manatee County) restaurants. It will be a huge economic driver.”

Baugh is hoping Mote’s expansion will increase its research into marine problems such as red tide.

Chris Romine, senior vice president and managing director of Northern Trust, said the aquarium’s addition to East County will bring huge dividends.

“As a kid, I always watched ‘The Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau,’” Romine said. “And I remember in 1975, John Denver wrote ‘Calypso’ (a tribute to Cousteau, his crew and his ship).

The words were, ‘To live on the land we must learn from the sea.’

Jay Heater

Mote President and CEO Michael Crosby discusses the aquarium project at Gold Coast Eagle Distributing.

That embodies Mote.

“The aquarium is going to bring the education element. It’s going to add to the amenities in our area. This is going to be inspirational, and it is going to be a pride point for our community.”

Tim Novak, dean of the School of Health Services Administration at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, said the aquarium’s construction is essential.

“They are talking about the health of an ecosystem,” Novak said. “The focus is going to be on research. This is going to present opportunities here that don’t exist in other areas.”

The evening’s host, Gold Coast Eagle Distributing owner and President John Saputo, said the

aquarium will put Sarasota on the map and make it a place where people of any age can learn about the bays and waterways.

“This is going to be a focal point for all of Florida,” Saputo said.

“Mote Marine will make every citizen here proud.”

Crosby said he would love to “see a shovel in the dirt” by the end of 2019. Mote has collected $29 million so far for the project.

He gave a final pitch to those at Gold Coast Eagle Distributing about making a donation.

“We are intimately connected with our oceans,” he said. “Fifty to 80% of the oxygen you are breathing comes from our oceans.

So if you want to keep breathing ...”

464646 46

46 46 YOU DESERVE A RAISE!

3.25% APY

1

15-Month Grow Certificate Account & IRA Certificate Account2 Show us a competitor’s rate and we’ll match it!1 Minimum $500 deposit in new funds 3.35% APY1 on deposits of $100,000 or more

46

OPEN YOUR ACCOUNT AT OUR MANATEE COUNTY LOCATIONS: 4018 14th St. West (US 41) Bradenton, FL 34205 p. 941.827.4100

Lakewood Ranch

11008 Arcade Pl. Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211 p. 941.827.4100

TRUNK SHOW TRUNK SHOW TRUNK SHOW TRUNK SHOW TRUNK SHOW

Insured by NCUA

February 8th February 9th February February February February 8th8th 8th February February 9th 9th9th 9th February February February 8th February 9th 10AM–6PM 10AM–6PM 10AM–6PM10AM–6PM 10AM–6PM 10AM–6PM 10AM–6PM 10AM–6PM 10AM–6PM 10AM–6PM 10AM–6PM Siesta Key 10AM–6PM St. Armands Siesta St. Armands Siesta Siesta Key St. St. Armands Armands Siesta Key KeySt. Armands Siesta Key Armands

Membership required–Subject to eligibility.

Grow Savings Accounts are subject to ChexSystems® approval. 1Annual Percentage Yield (APY). The Annual Percentage Yield quoted is effective as of 01/01/2019 and is subject to change at any time. A penalty will be imposed for early withdrawal. Fees could reduce earnings on the account. There is a $500 minimum balance to open the certificate account. Maximum deposit amount is $1,000,000. If the account is opened with $100,000 or more, you must maintain a daily balance of $100,000 in your account each day to obtain the disclosed APY. If the account is opened with less than $100,000, you must maintain a minimum daily balance of $500 in your account each day to obtain the disclosed APY. If your account falls below the minimum balance requirements, your account will be closed. Certificate must be opened with new money not currently on deposit in a share account with Grow Financial. Offer valid through 04/15/2019 and may be withdrawn at any time. Rate match valid on Certificate Accounts/Certificates of Deposit offered by financial institutions federally insured by the NCUA/FDIC. Brokered accounts and investment firm offers are excluded. Show us a competitor’s current rate and we’ll match their APY up to a maximum of 0.25% on Certificate Accounts/Certificates of Deposit with terms of 12 to 17 months. Advertised rates must be effective within the last 14 days. Expired offers will not be accepted. 2Certain restrictions apply. Not all tax payers are eligible. Consult your tax advisor.

TRUNKTRUNK SHOW SHOW TRUNK SIESTA KEY SHOW

298074-1

SIESTA KEY SIESTA KEY February 8th February 9th SIESTA KEY 209 Beach Rd. • 941.349.6644 SIESTA KEY February 8th February 9th 209 Beach Rd. • 941.349.6644 February 8th February 9th 209 209 Beach Rd. • 941.349.6644 941.349.6644 Beach Rd. • 941.349.6644 10AM–6PM 10AM–6PM 209 Beach Rd. • 941.349.6644 10AM–6PM 10AM–6PM ST ARMANDS St. CIRCLE 10AM–6PM 10AM–6PM Siesta Key Armands ST ARMANDS CIRCLE ST ARMANDS CIRCLE CIRCLE ST ARMANDS CIRCLE Siesta Key St. Armands 481 John Ringling Blvd.

• 941.388.5239 ST ARMANDS CIRCLE Siesta St. Armands 481 John Ringling Blvd.

• 941.388.5239 481 481 John Ringling Blvd.

• Key 941.388.5239 941.388.5239 John Ringling Blvd.

• 941.388.5239 481 481 John Ringling Blvd.

• 941.388.5239

SF-1839954

15-MonthCertificate_AD_5x8_012219.indd 1

1/25/19 8:35 AM

SF-1839954 SF-1839954 SF-1839954 SF-1839954 SF-1839954

SF-1839954

TRUNK SHOW

296797-1

Bradenton

6A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

‘Letters’ delivered to area students Lakewood Ranch residents help bring important performance to the area.

IF YOU GO

PAM EUBANKS SENIOR EDITOR

I

t was a year ago when Lakewood Ranch’s Terri Vitale saw a performance of “Letters from Anne and Martin,” while attending a Florida Philanthropic Network summit in Miami.

That performance is a dramatic reading that combines the writings of Holocaust victim Anne Frank and civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr. When her daughter, junior Sydney Sforzo, began her new semester at The Out-of-Door Academy, Vitale recognized how her daughter had been learning about the power of conversation and new ways to think in her English class.

She started to think about both her daughter and son, Ryan Sforzo, an IMG freshman, and how they could benefit from seeing a performance of “Letters from Anne and Martin.”

So Vitale asked Sydney for help making it happen.

On Feb. 6, “Letters from Anne and Martin,” as performed by actors from The Anne Frank

Pam Eubanks

Lakewood Ranch’s Terri Vitale and her daughter, Sydney Sforzo, are cochairs of the community performance of “Letters from Anne and Martin.”

Center for Mutual Respect in New York, will take the stage at ODA. That performance will be attended only by ODA students and faculty.

The public performance will be at 7 p.m., Feb. 5 at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. Tickets are $30 for general admission and $10 for students.

“It’s really powerful the way they present it,” said Vitale, who chaired the drive to bring the performance to the area along with her daughter and Sarasota lawyer Chip Gaylor. “It makes

you more mindful of the power of words and leadership and vision.

It makes you mindful we can all treat each other a little better.”

After returning from the Florida Philanthropic Network summit in February 2018, Vitale eventually shared notes about her experience during a board meeting of the Community Foundation of Sarasota. Gaylor, who also is on the foundation’s board, said he was interested in bringing the performance to the area as well.

A collaboration of nonprofits — the Sarasota County Bar Asso-

‘LETTERS FROM ANNE AND MARTIN’ When: 7 p.m., Feb. 5 Where: Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota Cost: $30 for general admission; $10 for students; or $100 for VIP About: “Letters from Anne and Martin” is a 45-minute two-actor production written, produced and directed by the Anne Frank Center for Mutual Respect in New York. It combines the words from the diary of Anne Frank, a teenage Holocaust victim, and civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr. from his writings while in jail in Birmingham, Ala. Following the performance, 12th Judicial Circuit Judge Charles Williams will lead a discussion.

Info: sarasotabar.com or 350-1089

ciation Diversity and Inclusion Committee, the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, Embracing Our Differences and The Boxser Diversity Initiative — worked in tandem to host the show.

Sarah Wertheimer, executive director of Embracing Our Differences, a Sarasota-based non-

profit that uses art and education to celebrate diversity, said her organization brought an exhibit from the Anne Frank Center for Mutual Respect to the area about two years ago, and she already had been interested in bringing “Letters from Anne and Martin” here.

“There’s so many lessons to be learned from Anne Frank and Martin Luther King Jr.,” Wertheimer said. “It’s the value of acceptance, the value of inclusion, history.”

Vitale said she was surprised to learn Anne Frank and Martin Luther King Jr. were born the same year — 1929 — and although Frank wrote her famous diary as a teenager and King wrote his letter from the Birmingham, Ala., jail as a 34-year-old, their messages are powerful. At the conference she attended in Miami, the audience engaged in a facilitated post-performance discussion.

“The people engaged and spoke candidly,” Vitale said. “There was a lot of hope in the conversation.”

Sforzo, who will speak to the audience after the Feb. 5 performance, said students who see the show will understand their viewpoints are shaped by their own experiences.

“The takeaway, especially for the students, is to make them open and aware, to expose them to something they otherwise would not know about,” she said.

Luxury Residences on Peaceful Waters

IN HARMONY WITH NATURE

The Mindera model by John Cannon Homes

A GOLF AND BOATING COMMUNITY ON THE MANATEE RIVER

WATERFRONT ESTATE HOMESITES UP TO 1.5 ACRES EIGHT OF THE AREA’S PREMIER CUSTOM HOME BUILDERS INFORMATION CENTER AND MODELS OPEN DAILY

Our Exclusive Builder Team: John Cannon Homes Arthur Rutenberg Homes Anchor Builders Nutter Custom Construction Perrone Construction Nautilus Homes Lee Wetherington Homes

Easy Access to Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch and Tampa/St. Petersburg | 941.208.1229 | www.LiveatTheIslands.com

295993-1

RESIDENCES DIRECTLY ON THE RIVER WITH PRIVATE BOAT DOCK FROM $1.4 MILLION

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

7A

BEYOND THE EXTRAORDINARY THE POWER OF A BRAND PREMIER SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY ARTFULLY UNITES THE SODA GROUP AND LAURA STAVOLA

Top Group Top Associate Top Real Estate Company in Market Share* Over $80 million in sales in 2018 Voted best real estate team in America six years in a row 2013-2018** Nearly 130 transactions Over $700 million in combined sales since 2001 56 years of combined experience in real estate DONNA SODA | 941.961.5857 | Donna.Soda@PremierSIR.com LAURA STAVOLA | 941.447.4875 | Laura.Stavola@PremierSIR.com JIM SODA, P.A. | 941.809.7759 | Jim.Soda@PremierSIR.com

THE

PremierSothebysRealty.com

LauraStavola.com *Market Share Total Volume For Sales $500,000+ in 34202 & 34211 per MFRMLS. ** Jim & Donna Soda Voted Best Real Estate Team in America by Real Trends.

Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

297702-1

TheSodaGroup.com

8A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

EAST COUNTY

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

Friedrich Hayek

“Road to Serfdom,” 1944

THIS SALE RAISES THE ROOF ON THE MARKET What: Mike and Kathy Verble’s Lake Club home Address: 16416 Baycross Drive, Lakewood Ranch Price: $7,495,000 Realtor: Roger Pettingell Information: longboatrealestate. com

Editor / CEO / Matt Walsh mwalsh@yourobserver.com Vice President / Lisa Walsh lwalsh@yourobserver.com Publisher / Emily Walsh ewalsh@yourobserver.com Associate PublisherEast County Observer / Lori Ruth lruth@yourobserver.com Executive Editor / Kat Hughes khughes@yourobserver.com Managing Editor / Jay Heater jheater@yourobserver.com Senior Editor / Pam Eubanks peubanks@yourobserver.com Sports Reporter / Ryan Kohn rkohn@yourobserver.com Staff Writer / Brynn Mechem,

bmechem@yourobserver.com

Lake Club home passes all the family’s codes.

Director of Advertising / Jill Raleigh jraleigh@yourobserver.com Sales Manager / Penny DiGregorio pdigregorio@yourobserver.com Digital Sales and Business Development Manager / Kathleen O’Hara,kohara@yourobserver.com Senior Advertising Executive / Laura Ritter, lritter@yourobserver.com Advertising Executives /

JAY HEATER MANAGING EDITOR

H

is $7,495,000 home is spectacular, but to Mike Verble, it pales in comparison to the love story that formed its foundation.

Verble, who reluctantly is selling the Lake Club home he loves, sat in front of one of his four fireplaces and closed his eyes for a moment before beginning to tell his story.

His eyes reopened, and Verble had a faraway look, revisiting the past. He started to speak.

“I was 16 years old,” he said of that time on the north side of Indianapolis. “I walked into a friend’s house. I turned, and I had this crick in my neck.”

Now 69, Verble pointed at his neck and twisted a bit in his chair, as if he was feeling a pinch of pain, and then he smiled.

“There she was.”

It was the moment his eyes fell upon his wife, Kathy.

“I saw her, and never have I been without her since,” Verble said. “She makes me whole. And I still get that crick in my neck when I see her.”

A year after that moment, they were married, although Verble said he wasn’t sure how that bit of information would be digested by the public, since he was 17 and she was 16 at the time.

If anyone did object, they’ve had 53 years to get over the union.

Kathy and Mike Verble built a home where they could entertain their children and grandchildren.

Editorial Designers / Melissa Leduc, mleduc@yourobserver.com; Meghan Sasser, msasser@yourobserver.com Copy Editor / Kelly Carson, kcarson@ yourobserver.com Arts + Entertainment Managing Editor / Niki Kottmann, nkottmann@ yourobserver.com

Richeal Bair, rbair@yourobserver.com; Diane de Spirlet, ddespirlet@yourobserver. com; Chrissy Guevera, cguevara@ yourobserver.com; Beth Jacobson, bjacobson@yourobserver.com; Tina Kelly, tkelly@yourobserver.com; Linda Krysinski, lkrysinski@yourobserver.com; Bob Lewis, blewis@yourobserver.com; Toni Perren, tperren@yourobserver.com

Courtesy photos

Top: The 9,223-square-foot home sits on 2.49 acres in The Lake Club.

Above: The master bath is just one example of the home’s luxury.

For those who come to the Verbles’ home, they probably concentrate on numbers. The home is 9,223 square feet of luxury and it sits on a 2.49-acre lot that includes an eighth of a mile running track, a tennis court, a basketball court, a gym, a motor courtyard, a billiards room, media rooms, a library, a 1,000-bottle wine cellar, a designer pool and a raised spa. A centrally located green complex is surrounded by five tee boxes that would allow golfers of any level to sharpen their short game.

Family and friends have plenty of space with five bedrooms and five-and-a-half baths. There are four fireplaces, a grand parlor with a 13-foot-high double iron door entry and 22-foot ceilings.

The home includes travertine and hardwood flooring, tons of granite, coffered ceilings with exposed beams, curved stone ceilings, a gourmet kitchen with Wolf appliances, and on, and on, and on.

It is the most expensive home in Lakewood Ranch.

And yet, it is so much more.

Verble built the home in 2015 — or paid John Cannon to build it — and he moved into the home at 16416 Baycross Drive in 2016.

He had been living on the north end of Manasota Key, and he and Kathy became fed up with red tide. He also admitted he began to worry about hurricanes.

And in building his dream home, he wanted to design a place where his three children and eight grandchildren would love to visit, and stay. It would be a wonderful resort, that simply felt like home.

“When we do Thanksgiving, everyone comes,” said Verble, who founded North American Roofing in 1979 with his dad, Carl, and brother, Patrick, and in 1989 became the sole owner.

It was only natural he designed the home because while his dad was a builder, his mom, Jane, had a designer’s eye. It was his dad who built the mansion of Indiana Pacers basketball star Reggie Miller, but it was Jane who designed the interior. Mike was born with his mom’s eye.

In walking around his home, Verble pointed at the walnut trim that runs throughout.

“This is No. 2 walnut ... it has the knots. That’s way better. You see things in this home you might have seen in a house 200 years ago,” he said.

“I learned from my mom you have to feel it. I stand inside the house, and I see the finished product in my mind.”

Unfortunately, as life follows its twists and turns, Mike and Kathy have found themselves in a position of needing to move to Asheville, N.C., where their children live. It makes them sad to leave a home with so many personal touches, but Mike said he will build a home “twice as big” in Asheville.

He just hopes that his current home goes to someone who appreciates and loves life.

“This is such a place for yourself, your wife, your kids, your grandkids to be on holiday every day of the week,” he said. “This was very well done.”

Sales Operations Manager / Susan Leedom, sleedom@yourobserver.com Sales Coordinator/Account Manager Emma Burke, eburke@yourobserver. com; Lori Downey, ldowney@yourobserver. com Classified Advertising Sales Executives/ Maureen Hird, mhird@ yourobserver.com Tributes Coordinator/ Kristen Boothroyd, tributes@yourobserver.com Director of Marketing / Robin Lankton, rlankton@yourobserver.com Director of Creative Services and Information Technology / Kathy Payne, kpayne@yourobserver.com Creative Director / Caleb Stanton, cstanton@yourobserver.com Creative Services Administrator / Marjorie Holloway, mholloway@yourobserver.com Creative Services Coordinator / Christine Galan, cgalan@yourobserver. com Technology & Development Manager/ Adam Quinlin, aquinlin@yourobserver. com Advertising Graphic Designers / Shawna Polana, Luis Trujillo, Allison Wampole Chief Financial Officer / Laura Keisacker; lkeisacker@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, Port Orange Observer, Ormond Beach Observer, West Orange Times & Observer, Windermere Observer, Winter Park Observer Business Observer, Jacksonville Daily Record, LWR Life Magazine, Baldwin Park Living Magazine and Season Magazine.

Chairman / David Beliles Editor and CEO / Matt Walsh Vice President / Lisa Walsh

8126 Lakewood Main St., Suite D207 Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 941-755-5357

YourObserver.com © 2019 The Observer Media Group Inc. All Rights Reserved

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

SIDE OF RANCH

|

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

9A

JAY HEATER

Local author’s book mixes life and food I

t’s hard for me to imagine being in the same boat, or kitchen, as East County’s Brent Holweger.

Brent, an Indiana native, grew up much like I did in upstate New York, as a meat-and-potatoes kind of guy.

He probably never expected his wife, Staci, would turn into an author of “Clean Keto — Vegan Recipes for the Good Life.”

Now Brent bellies up to his dinner table and enjoys Staci’s lemon caper cauliflower steaks — complete with asparagus, pumpkin seeds, spinach and capers — instead of a burger smothered with bacon. Oh, the pain, the pain.

Or perhaps not so much.

Staci, whose book is self-published and has been out a month, said Brent always has been a picky eater, something I certainly take pride in being myself.

After all, isn’t that what having choices is all about?

Their clash of diets, however, had developed into a family pain.

Staci had gone through somewhat of an awakening when, in 2015, she grew tired of “waking up in the morning with my eyes swollen shut and my fingers so fat I couldn’t get my rings on.”

She weighed 215 pounds, and she just wanted to be happier and healthier.

The immediate plan was to cut out all gluten, dairy and sugar, and that got the ball rolling to the tune of 20 pounds dropped in 30 days.

Then, at the urging of her daughter, Taylor, she went further. She adopted a vegan diet.

Her success eventually led to a weight loss of 75 pounds.

She had to, however, find a way to incorporate her family, at least partially, into her healthier eating rituals. At first she was

Jay Heater

East County’s Staci Holweger has written her first cookbook.

cooking up to four different meals a day, one for herself, one to satisfy her husband’s meatand-potatoes yearning, the special diet Taylor had to consume and another for her son, Trey.

Over time, though, she converted Brent, who eventually lost 40 pounds himself, and her

#1 Place to Shop for Cats and Cat Lovers

941.366.2404

Top name brands of cat food and litter, calming products, toys and unique gifts.

cancers, which led to a stay of more than a year in hospitals, most of that in ICU. She suffered a “brain bleed” or traumatic brain injury, and to this day needs full-time care, although Staci says her daughter is a “happy, sassy 16-year-old.”

Staci documents those struggles, and victories, while talking about a journey that eventually led her three years ago to East County’s Foundation for Dreams and its Dream Oaks Camp.

“I had never taken Taylor anywhere and left her,” said Staci, who is 44. “But she fell in love with it right away. Everything was right up her alley. They have campfires, scavenger hunts, crafts, music, games, canoeing, boating. And they adapt everything to her.”

All proceeds from Staci’s book (she has sold 500 so far) are going to Foundation for Dreams to provide scholarships for children in need to attend camp there.

“I see parents and their struggles,” said Staci, who noted Brent now is on the Foundation for Dreams board of directors.

Anyone interested in the book can purchase it on Amazon or Barnes and Noble online. It lists for $21.95.

And, me? Well, I just found a “shake-and-make chocolate mousse” recipe.

You never know.

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

Winter Clearance

CAT DEPOT SUPPLY AND GIFT STORE

2542 17th St., Sarasota, FL 34234 Hours: M-F 11am-7pm S-S 11am-5pm

children.

“Slowly over time, he started to like it,” Staci said of Brent liking a healthier diet. “Now he prefers anything in my book.”

Part of making everyone happy was researching and finding recipes they all could enjoy. And when she nailed one, she would

put it up online, complete with photos, for her friends to enjoy.

As she posted more recipes online, and eventually started going “live” on Facebook with her recipes, she received more feedback. Her new followers wanted her to write a cookbook, and provide them with a 14-day meal plan.

Writing a cookbook was an interesting thought for Staci, who had been a reading language arts teacher at Evansville Middle School in Indiana before she started her career 14 years ago as an entrepreneur with It Works Global selling health and wellness products.

“I always thought I would be an author,” she said. “I thought I would be writing something in the personal growth and development area. But I had no plan to write a cookbook.”

In fact, she grew up not cooking at all even though her mother, Rita Sparks, of Evansville, Ind., “was a master in the kitchen and the garden.”

“When I look back, though, my mom was a great role model,” she said.

It’s all part of the story.

Although “Clean Keto — Vegan Recipes for the Good Life” indeed is a cookbook, it’s really more book than cook.

Sure, it’s stuffed with all those healthy recipes Staci loves so much. Most can be made in 15 to 20 minutes because Staci said she doesn’t have an hour to spend in the kitchen, and everyone “wanted simple.”

The joy of this cookbook, however, is Staci’s descriptions of the trials and tribulations of her life and what sent her down a healthier and happier path.

When Taylor, who is 16 now, was a 4-year-old, she was misdiagnosed with several types of

NO INTEREST UNTIL JANUARY 2020! * SAME DAY PICK UP OR NEXT DAY DELIVERY! NO INTEREST IF PAID IN FULL WITHIN 12 MONTHS, BY FEBRUARY 2015.

SPECIAL PURCHASE $ DELIVERY!$* WITH SAME DAY PICK UP OR NEXT DAY

50 OFF

www.catdepot.org 294896-1

300 OFF

anyand Purchase over $499Interest any Purchase over $2999 On Purchases $300 or more with your Furniture Warehouse credit card made between Feb. 1, 2014 Jan. 31, 2015. will be charged to your account from the purchases date if the promotional purchase is not paid in full within 12 months, by February 2015. Minimum Monthly Payments required.

STARTS TODAY!

FIND US IN YOUR

NEIGHBORHOOD

Dual Reclining Sofa

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

With Contrasting Welts. Relax with comfort and style at a great price. Great Value!

293258-1

SOUTH SARASOTA (NEW) 5252 S. Tamiami Tr. at Phillippi Creek

LV9705

NORTH SARASOTA 4027 N. Washington (US 301) 1 Mile South of University Parkway

499 DO NOT $

Sofa

BRADENTON 1100 W. Cortez Rd. Northeast Corner of Cortez Rd. and 41

MISS THIS

$

$400 OFF 100SPECIAL OFF PURCHASE

any Purchase over $999

$

any Purchase over $3999

200 OFF $500 OFF

any Purchase over $1999

any Purchase over $4999

ELLENTON 5814 18th St E. Across from the Ellenton Outlet Mall

PORT CHARLOTTE 1241 El Jobean Rd. SR 776 across from Sam’s

(941) 260-9601 (941) 764-8700 Faux 479-7900 Marble Dining Set (941) 749-6069 (941) Coastal Casual Look (941) 351-8600 $ Sun. 11-6 which includes dining table and Mon.-Sat. 9-9, Sun. 11-6 Mon.-Sat. 9-9, Sun. 11-6 Mon.-Sat. 9-9, Mon.-Sat. 9-9, Sun. 11-6 Mon.-Sat. 9-9, Sun. 11-6 At An Unbelievable Price.

4 matching chairs with upholstered seats.

Sofa You have it all here. comfort OURStyle, VENICE LOCATION IS TEMPORARILY CLOSED. WE ARE BUILDING A NEW BEAUTIFUL STATE-OF-THE-ART STORE!

399

$

OPPORTUNITY

299

and value. **On Purchases over $300 or more with your Furniture Warehouse credit card made between January 31, 2019 and January 30, 2020. Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date if the promotional purchase is not paid in full within 12 months by January 2020.

Sleeper available.

Minimum Monthly Payments required. Offer applies only to single-receipt qualifying purchases. No interest will be charged on the promo purchase if you pay the promo purchase amount in full before the due date. If you do not, interest will be assessed on the promo purchase from the purchase date. Regular account terms apply to non-promotional purchases and, after promotion ends, to promotional balance. For new accounts: Purchase APR is 29.99%. Minimum Interest Charge is $2. Existing cardholders should see their credit card agreement of Stress their applicable terms. Subject to credit approval. Previous purchases excluded. Cannot be combined with other promotion or discount. Discount offers exclude Hot Buys, floor models or clearance items, sales Free tax, furnitureDanish protection plans, warranty, delivery or service charge.

TO SAVE

SPECIAL PURCHASE

Styled Recliners.

In blended leather.

Brown

Cream

Green

Red

10A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

Courtesy photo

LEND A HAND

Pam Eubanks

Above: Dustin Horne’s grandmother, Christine Whaley, mother, Tena McCallister, and aunt, Stacy Young, are grateful Dolly Johnson is creating a tribute garden for Dustin. Right: A welder by trade, Dustin Horne was a 2007 graduate of Lakewood Ranch High School who loved to fish and hunt.

Hope grows Myakka City man, killed in a crash, is honored with a community garden.

PAM EUBANKS SENIOR EDITOR

Tena McCallister sat in a patio chair listening to the wind rustle through the grass and the oak branches.

She was looking toward an open field adjacent to the home

of Myakka City’s Dolly and Gary Johnson that will become a community garden honoring her son, Dustin Horne.

Horne, who grew up in Myakka City, died at 30 years old Oct. 29, in a car crash at State Road 64 and Verna Bethany Road. The 2007 Lakewood Ranch High School

You can help Helping Hands Giving Hearts earn its nonprofit status by visiting its yard sale from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 2 at Bethany Baptist Church, 26604 State Road 64 E., Myakka City. Proceeds will help cover the $600 cost of securing a nonprofit designation. Food will be available for purchase.

graduate had helped an elderly man check on his cows that day when he left in his vehicle and was hit by a driver who was charged with DUI manslaughter.

Dolly and Gary Johnson, who live on the property of an old horse farm at 26795 Gill Road, didn’t know Horne but learned more about the kind of man he was last December. Horne’s grandmother, Christine Whaley, had come to the Johnsons’ property to help with an “Operation Santa” project, which in December provided Christmas meals and presents to 32 families in need through the

Helping Hands Giving Hearts organization.

Whaley, along with other community volunteers, told the Johnsons about Horne, his love of the outdoors and his love of people.

“The more Christine was telling me about Dustin, I thought, ‘It has to be Dustin’s Garden,’” Dolly Johnson said. “He was the type of person who wanted to give back to people. That’s what the garden is all about.”

The Johnsons decided they wanted to honor Horne and envisioned a community garden in a flat area that used to be a riding arena. The community garden could provide food to those in need through Helping Hands Giving Hearts.

McCallister said her son would have loved this particular spot.

“Even if there was nothing in this field, he’d be in heaven,” she said of her son.

Dustin’s Garden will be an important piece of Helping Hands Giving Hearts, and it should become productive considering Myakka City’s Maureen Hudson, an engineering and technology teacher at Braden River High School, will supply some volunteer labor with her team of 45 members of the Technology Student Association.

Those students already have been busy, shopping and wrapping presents for the Helping Hands Giving Hearts’ Operation Santa project.

“It was so valuable for my kids to be part of that,” Hudson said.

“We were looking for something to do that wasn’t just raising money and giving money.”

The Johnsons said they hope to break ground on the garden within a month.

Engagement ~ Wedding ~ Anniversary

For the Love of Your Life, Now and Forever

10% Off Bedroom Furniture!

2/1/19 - 2/28/19.

Offer not valid on previous purchases.

May not be combined with other discount.

Sale in Progress

Gabrielny.com

BARTLETTJEWELERS

CREEKWOOD CROSSING | I-75 & S.R. 70 | BRADENTON, FL 941.751.6600 | MON–SAT 9:30AM–5:30PM BartlettJewelers.com

298225-1

DUTCHHAUSFURNITURE.COM

298396-1

Your Trusted Jeweler since 1973

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

11A

THE MILESTONE FINANCIAL GROUP AT MORGAN STANLEY PROUDLY PRESENTS

4 ANNUAL S.T.A.R. INVESTOR’S CONFERENCE TH

Monday, February 11, 2019 1:00 - 5:00 pm Art Ovation Hotel 1255 N Palm Ave Sarasota, FL 34236

Forum Topics: · Timely Ideas for Today’s Market Environment · Private Market Insight-Equity, Credit and Real Estate · Protective Strategies for Declining Markets · Investing with Positive Social and/or Environmental Outcomes · Disruptive Technologies and their Long-Term Impact

Come learn what is happening in today’s marketplace.

Seating is limited.

Call Today! 941.714.7931

Strategies Tactics Alternatives Resources This Investment Forum is for investors defined by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as Qualified Purchasers (an individual with $5 Million or greater in liquidity).

FEATURING

Anthony Scaramucci

Founder and former Co-Managing Partner of SkyBridge Capital. He is the author of three books: The Little Book of Hedge Funds, Goodbye Gordon Gekko,and Hopping Over the Rabbit Hole, a 2016 Wall Street Journal best seller.

Prior to founding SkyBridge in 2005, Scaramucci co-founded investment partnership Oscar Capital Management, which was sold to Neuberger Berman, LLC in 2001. Earlier, he was a vice president in Private Wealth Management at Goldman Sachs & Co. In November 2016, he was named to President-Elect Trump’s 16-person Presidential Transition Team Executive Committee. In June 2017, he was named the Chief Strategy Officer of the EXIM Bank. He served as the White House Communications Director for a period in July 2017.

Event courtesy of John Vita, Morgan Stanley Financial Advisor, with local office at 1401 Manatee Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205. The guest speakers are neither employees nor affiliated with Morgan Stanley Wealth Management. Opinions expressed by the guest speakers are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Morgan Stanley. Individuals should consult with their tax/legal advisors before making any tax/legal-related investment decisions as Morgan Stanley and its Financial Advisors do not provide tax/legal advice. There will be no discussion of, or distribution of written materials relating to, specific products or investments at this presentation. Alternative Investments are speculative and include a high degree of risk. An investor could lose all or a substantial amount of his/her investment. Alternative investments are suitable only for qualified, long-term investors who are willing to forgo liquidity and put capital at risk for an indefinite period of time. The appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor’s individual circumstances and objectives. Principal value and return of an investment will fluctuate with changes in market conditions. This presentation is for informational purposes only and is not to be considered a solicitation on our part with respect to the purchase or sale of any securities, investments, strategies or products that may be mentioned. The organizations represented by the speakers provided financial support for this Forum. Investments and services offered through Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC2345187 12/18

294028-1

Top Strategists and Portfolio Managers from:

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

COPS CORNER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

JAN. 5

THEFT IS HIS CALLING CARD 8000 block of East State Road 70, Bradenton Employee theft: The manager of a gas station convenience store contacted the Sheriff’s Office because a store employee was suspected of stealing money from the register. Management began looking into the possible theft after reviewing security video and noticing the employee had made five refunds when no customer was standing at the counter. Those refunds were traced to the employee’s debit card. Deputies confronted the employee about the issues and he denied the allegations. The amount was $211.44.

JAN. 13

EXPENSIVE DAY AT THE PARK 6500 block of Rosehill Farm Run, Bradenton Lost property: A woman called the Sheriff’s Office to report her lost bracelet. The woman said she believes she lost the bracelet while she was playing with her grandchildren at Polo Run Park.

She said it must have slipped off her wrist. She looked extensively but could not find it. She said the bracelet had yellow golf bars with a diamond between each bar. She said the bracelet had a total on 14 diamonds on it and was worth $3,000. She said the clasp must have broken while she was playing with her grandchildren. The woman presented the Sheriff’s Office with photos and documentation of the bracelet.

JAN. 12

MAC ATTACK AT DRIVE-THRU 11000 block of State Road 64 East, Bradenton Assault: A woman came to the Sheriff’s Office to report while she was working her drive-thru shift at a fast food restaurant, she was attacked by two unknown persons in the same vehicle. One woman grabbed her hand and crushed an ice cream cone on her arm that she was handing to her. Another person in the back of the vehicle threw an unknown liquid into her face. The victim was not injured.

JAN. 19

DUMB SCHEME GOES AWRY 2900 block of 53rd Avenue East, Bradenton Petit theft: A man went into a department store and selected two items, placing them into his cart

tHE FARmERS' MARKET FoR tHE ENtIRE LAKEWoOD RANCH REGION

OUTING SHOWS LACK OF HORSE SENSE 22000 block of County Road 675, Myakka City Information only: The Sheriff’s Office was called when two equestrian enthusiasts became lost during a horseback ride in Edward W. Chance Reserve. The deputies were told they were lost in the northern reaches of the property. Deputies utilized assets including a drone and an ATV to locate the lost mother and her juvenile daughter. With sunset approaching, the drone initially located the riders. Deputies deployed the ATV to reach the riders and lead them to safety. The riders were tired but uninjured. A ride was provided to their vehicle.

• Mention this ad for a FREE MARKET totE •

Start Fresh in the New Year!

ORGANIC PRODUCE FROm 40+ LoCAL VENDORS

WEDNESDAYS, 3 to 7pm

JAN. 19

MISSING WOMAN MAY HAVE HAD TWIN 8300 block of Market Street, Lakewood Ranch Information only: The Sheriff’s Office was contacted when a woman said she had seen a woman who has been missing from Richmond, Va., and who had been featured on television. The first woman was shopping at a drug store when she thought she saw the woman. The woman who made the report said she thought the woman looked scared and appeared to be altering her appearance with a wig. The deputy took the report and issued a case number. Deputies were dispatched to the area. A detective at the Richmond (Va.) Police Department was aware of the tip and advised it was unlikely the missing woman was in Manatee County.

December – April

DAiRY • EgGS • FRESH bREADS & bAKED GoODS HoNEY • SPiCES & RUbS • pREPaRED FoODS & MoRE sunset

and then bypassing all points of sale as he left the store. He then went to the service desk, where he claimed he had purchased the items and wanted to return them, even though he had no receipt.

He collected $44.75 in credit for the items on two gift cards. Loss prevention had video of the man’s actions. The man was arrested

by Sheriff’s Office deputies and transported to County Jail.

JAN. 19

CREAtE & DIY

YoGA WoRKSHOPS FoOD DEMoS MUSIC live

bY USF CHEF RoV

and much more fun for the whole family!

JAN. 19

PET CAUSES FALSE ALARM 8300 block of 38th Street Circle East, Sarasota Possible burglary: A Sheriff’s Office deputy was dispatched to an apartment where the owner reported a burglary had occurred.

The resident said the door had been opened by an unknown person. The deputy determined there was no forced entry and no property had been taken from the apartment. The deputy discovered dry blood and scratches on the door that were believed to have come from the resident’s pet dog, who appeared to have been the one who opened the door.

tHEmaRKEtLWR.CoM • Follow us for EVENt iNFo SARASotA poLo CLUB • 8201 poLo CLUB LANE • LAKEWoOD RANCH, FL 34240

294632-1

12A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

13A

CLASSIC LEATHER SOFA $1398

This fine leather sofa with a stylish contrast stitching on the armrests, bring home even more style. Choice of colors.

on fine quality furniture

PLUS QUEEN SIZE BED $598

on all accessories

Reg. $1999

Sophisticated, clean and simple queen bed.

Free In-Home Consultations Easy Interest-Free Financing

MODERN COLLECTION

Fast Delivery & Set-Up

HI LEG SOFA $1399

Reg. $2699

100% genuine leather with cross stitch accent.

Choice of colors.

SARASOTA 941.960.4410

|

PINELLAS PARK 727.577.6660

|

TARPON SPRINGS 727.942.3618

matterbrothersfurniture.com

|

NAPLES 239.598.3330

297899-1

BRING YOUR FLORIDA LIFESTYLE HOME |

FT. MYERS 239.275.3968

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

IT’S READ EVERYWHERE

ADVERTISEMENT

HEALTH OBSERVED

Dear Freya:

and forget that it needs nurturing.

My husband and I have been married for 12 years. He works a lot and I’m left alone to look after our 2 kids; so much so, that I’m starting to get fed up. I understand that he has to work hard to provide for us but I don’t think he realizes how much work it is running the household and taking care of the children. I feel so frustrated and alone. Am I being unreasonable?

Healthy relationships do take work. Explore ways in which you can share in some of the work at home. You married because you wanted your mate as a partner.

When we divide duties, we can feel very alone. Remind him how much you miss his company. It is also important for the two of you to have time alone, so you can nurture your intimate relationship.

- Amy.

Maybe in his efforts to be a good provider, he doesn’t realize the toll it is taking on your relationship.

Don’t be afraid to explore options.

Don’t start thinking you know the solution. Start with dialogue that you are frustrated and you need his help in finding the solution, then find the solution together.

I applaud you for reaching out for help. Too many times, couples continue with situations that aren’t working instead of looking for alternative solutions. This often ends up growing into bigger problems that could cause them to separate. I doubt that is what either one of you want.

One of the first things you can do is to communicate. If you can discuss issues without serious heat, then that’s a big step in the right direction. Set up a time to do this together, without your children.

Talk about your feelings and use “I” statements. Don’t tell him how he feels; be willing to sit quietly and hear him while he shares how he feels. After you each share, the other person should repeat back what they heard their partner say, so that both people feel heard. It may feel awkward at first, but it does work and will create a healthy pattern for future discussions. Many times, when couples get busy, they get complacent in their relationship

CLOSE FOR THE OBSERVER, BUT NO CIGAR: Luis Fuentes took the East County Observer to Havana, Cuba.

Think about things you have done together previously and include them back into your routine.

Make a list of activities you enjoy together, prioritize what is important to you as a couple. Try some, then set a time to evaluate if the changes help or you need to make more.

296097-1

Dear Amy:

Headed on a trip? Snap a photo of you on vacation holding your Observer, then submit your photo online at YourObserver.com/ itsreadeverywhere. Happy travels!

If it seems like you cannot talk with your spouse without a heated battle, then I suggest finding a good counselor where you two can be real with your communication without any feeling of retribution.

Amy, I hope some of these suggestions help. Let me know about your challenges and successes!

- Freya

Have a relationship question for Freya? Email freya@zollingermediation.com with subject line: “Healthy relationships submission” to give consent to anonymously publish.

All names will be changed/omitted prior to publication. All emails without this subject line will be considered private and confidential.

Freya Robbins, CDFA™ Supreme Court Certified Mediator 941-366-0202 ZollingerMediation.com

Family & Divorce Mediation | Elder Care Mediation Marriage Mediation | Pre & Post Nuptial Agreements Many situations can be resolved without the pain and expense of litigation.

Schedule a Free Phone Consultation to see if Mediation is the right path for you.

Health Observed allows brands and businesses to connect directly with the Observer’s readership — and participate in the conversation — by creating engaging content on the Observer’s digital publishing platform. For more on Health Observed, email us at kohara@yourobserver.com.

294953-1

941-366-0202

297734-1

14A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

F I N A L LY FO U N D STUNNING DESIGN. INSIDE & OUT.

5

PREMIER BUILDERS

FEATURING FIVE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA’S PREMIER BUILDERS: Anchor Builders • Arthur Rutenberg-Nelson Homes • Lee Wetherington Homes • London Bay Homes • Nutter Custom Construction

L DE O M

Y AIL D PEN O S

Along with our Robert Trent Jones, Jr. golf course, now you can discover a variety of luxuriously designed floor plans. Just minutes from Sarasota’s cultural hub and beaches, The Founders Club is where it all comes together. And lasts a lifetime.

HOME + HOMESITE PACKAGES

FROM THE $800s Sales Center just 3 miles east of I-75 on Fruitville Road (exit 210)

941.404.3107 | 3001 FOUNDERS CLUB DRIVE, SARASOTA | VisitFoundersClub.com

298131-1

15A

16A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

FREE HEALTH AND WELLNESS SEMINAR

TRIBUTES Janet C. Crouse 1943-2018 Janet C. Crouse, 75, passed away peacefully December 13, 2018 after a courageous battle with breast cancer.

She was born January 30, 1943 in Brooklyn, NY to the late William and Doris Freimuth. She is survived by her beloved spouse, Eugene Richard Crouse.

An Overview of Atrial Fibrillation and Treatment Options

Presented by David C. Buck, DO, FACC Cardiologist Bradenton Cardiology Center Lakewood Ranch

Saturday, February 16, 2019

“Janet was an original member of the Survivors in Sync Dragon Boat team out of Sarasota, FL. and enjoyed traveling to compete.”

Nathan Benderson Park Tower hosted by the Survivors in Sync dragon boat team.

SERVICE: Thursday, February 14, 10AM Sarasota National Cemetery DONATIONS: In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Survivors In Sync Dragon Boat team in Sarasota, FL. (http://survivorsinsync. org/support-us/donate/) or to the Tidewell Hospice House (917 N Arcadia Ave, Arcadia, FL 34266).

297962-1

Janet was always active and loved being with people. She retired from Pinellas County School District after 33 years of teaching at Riviera Middle School in St. Petersburg, FL. She could always be found either on the tennis court or on the golf course. She enjoyed book clubs and playing cards. Janet was an original member of the Survivors in Sync Dragon Boat team out of Sarasota, FL. and enjoyed traveling to compete. This past summer, the team traveled to Florence, Italy to compete in an international dragon boat festival where they took 4th place out of 125 teams from around the world.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by daughter, Rebecca Palmer of North Port, FL; daughter Amy Liberi (Bob) of Dallas,TX; son Kevin Crouse (Kathy) of Seneca, SC; sister Dianne Mole of Punta Gorda, FL; grandchildren Cole and Cameron Schwartz, Palmer Bowman, Gavin Liberi, Ashley and Eric Crouse.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, February 14, 2019 at 10:00 AM at Sarasota National Cemetery. Following the memorial service, there will be a Celebration of Life beginning at noon at the

IN MEMORY OF A

LOVED ONE

9 – 9:30 a.m.

Join Dr. Buck for an informative discussion about Atrial Fibrillation (AFIB) and gain valuable insight into prevention, risk reduction and treatment strategies.

The Mall at University Town Center

Seating Court in front of Macy’s, Lower Level Light refreshments will be served.

The Observer

Register online at

now offers obituaries not only to notify

lakewoodranchmedicalcenter.com/UTC/February

the community, but also to help celebrate

or by calling our Referral and Registration Center at 941.708.8100 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

the life of a recently departed loved one.

Memorialize your loved one with a lasting tribute in print and online, a permanent record of their legacy that your family will always cherish.

8330 Lakewood Ranch Blvd. | Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202

lakewoodranchmedicalcenter.com

PROVIDED BY THE OBSERVER MEDIA GROUP

Connect with us!

296150-1

To place an obituary, memorial, tribute or card of thanks, visit yourobserver.com/tributes or call 941-366-3468, ext. 323.

Or ask your funeral director for assistance.

298193-1

Physicians are on the medical staff of Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Lakewood Ranch Medical Center.

The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the non-discrimination notice, visit our website. 190589-0319 1/19

JANUARY 31, 2019

HIGH

SPORTS

5

1

Lakewood Ranch High boys soccer senior Alex Thompson scored two goals in the Mustangs’ 8-0 home win Jan. 22 against Sebring High.

“I want everyone to be involved all the time.

I bring people’s heads up when we are down.”

— Braden River High’s D’Angelo Antonino SEE PAGE 19A

ONE AND DONE Lakewood Ranch football coach leaves for North River.

RYAN KOHN SPORTS REPORTER

A

2

Braden River High girls basketball senior Mela Sharma had 10 points and 10 rebounds in the Pirates’ 77-12 road win Jan. 22 against Palmetto High.

3

Braden River High senior boys soccer player Nicolas Anderson had a goal and an assist in the Pirates’ 3-2 home win Jan. 25 against Riverview High.

4

Barbara Costello (16 over par) won the Nine Hole Women’s Golf Association event (low gross scoring) Jan. 25 at Palm Aire Country Club’s Executive Course.

5

Terry Fine and Mike Skeff (8 under par) won the Men’s Golf Association Best Buddy TwoMan event (best ball scoring) Jan. 26 at Palm Aire Country Club’s Champions Course.

COACHING ACE PAGE 18A

fter one year coaching the Lakewood Ranch High football program, Christopher Culton is taking on a different challenge.

Culton will become the first football coach at North River High, scheduled to open in the fall in Parrish. Culton decided to follow Lakewood Ranch Principal Craig Little and Athletic Director Shawn Trent to North River. The Mustangs went 0-10 in Culton’s lone season.

Culton said he would not have considered the move if Little and Trent were not there. The deciding factors, coworkers aside, were twofold for Culton. North River is within walking distance of Culton’s house, he said, as opposed to the 25-minute drive he would make to Lakewood Ranch. So it is easier on his family, which includes his wife, Amanda Culton, and five children.

He is more able to be a part of the community there, he said, and wants to begin meeting parents and matching names with faces as soon as possible, to hit that goal.

The other reason is the ability to build from scratch.

“These opportunities come along so rarely,” Culton said of taking over at a new school. “It is a ‘right place, right time’ thing. I cannot tell you how excited I am to have a blank canvas to work with.”

Culton will finish the year at Lakewood Ranch as a teacher, and officially start at North River on the first day of the 2019-2020 school year. But he also hopes to hold spring practice for incoming North River students at a nearby park, possibly Palmetto’s Buffalo Creek Park.

He also said he would like to bring assistant coaches from the Mustangs to North River, but is not sure he will be able to do so.

Culton, the former Naval Academy assistant coach, said he plans on molding his system to the players in it, not vice versa. The program will begin with either a freshman or junior varsity schedule in 2019-2020, due to the influx of young students at

Ryan Kohn

Christopher Culton is leaving Lakewood Ranch High football for North River High after a single season in which the team went 0-10.

the school, Culton said. Culton anticipates having a full-fledged varsity program for the 2021-2022 school year.

Culton said the decision to leave Lakewood Ranch was difficult, and he saw progress in his team even though the record did not reflect it.

He believes the program has a bright future thanks to many young players getting game experience. He also praised new Lakewood Ranch Principal Dustin Dahlquist and said he believes the program will be placed in good hands.

“I just told the team, ‘Thank you,’” Culton said. “The guys have had a really strong offseason.

With the work they put in, I think they have a chance next year.”

The Mustangs have not had a winning record since 2014, when they went 6-3. The program has not won more than six games since the program’s varsity team began in 2004.

Lakewood Ranch will now turn its attention to finding Culton’s — and Trent’s — replacement before spring football practice begins April 22. Dahlquist said the school will not hire a coach until its athletic and activities director is in place.

BY THE NUMBERS Lakewood Ranch High football win-loss records by year:

2018: 0-10 2017: 4-4 2016: 2-7 2015: 3-7 2014: 6-3 2013: 5-5 2012: 5-5 2011: 6-5 2010: 6-4 2009: 6-5 2008: 1-9 2007: 4-6 2006: 6-4 2005: 3-7 2004: 2-8

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

PROSE AND KOHN

RYAN KOHN

River Strand tennis director lives to serve S

ometimes, you need a feel-good story.

I needed a day-brightener, and Abdul Idi’s story provided me with one. It filled my heart with such joy, I had to share it with you, too.

Idi, the River Strand Golf and Country Club tennis director, hails from Wukari, Nigeria, a city with just two tennis courts. He was an avid ping-pong player before a youth coach, Dauda Mamman, convinced him he would have a greater shot at success as a tennis player. Idi said he was fortunate to receive advantages, like free lessons, that other players in Nigeria did not.

Idi became Nigeria’s junior champion in 1985. In 1986, he even followed in his junior coach Bulus Hussiani’s footsteps and received a scholarship to play in the United States, at North Carolina’s Livingstone College.

Those advantages he received helped him unlock his potential.

He wants to help others do the same.

“Any time I go to Nigeria, I make sure, whatever club I am at, to say to the members, ‘Hey, do you have an old tennis racket?’” Idi said. “Or shoes or clothing? Then, I take it to the clinic I am hosting. Unfortu-

nately, I cannot give things to every kid, but after the clinic, lucky kids will be chosen to get shoes or a racket or strings, something.

“I came to the U.S. 30 years ago through a tennis scholarship.

The game has given me so much, and I want to give back. You never know who is going to be a leader in the future.”

Idi used to visit Wukari every year, but now, with his professional and familial obligations, he typically goes back every other year. Still, he has been bringing kids’ tennis equipment and holding free clinics in the area since 1991, when he graduated college, and the city noticed.

In December, on Idi’s most recent trip home, he was honored by the city with the Bishop Ibrahim Sangari Usman Award, named after the man who brought the city its two courts, for his contributions to youth tennis.

Idi, who has been with River Strand since 2011 and was promoted to director last year, could easily have forgotten where he came from while sinking into our cozy community, but he did not.

He decided to help others in pursuit of their dreams, and that is admirable. We should all aspire

to give back as much as Idi does.

River Strand resident Grant Hicks, 12, has taken lessons from Idi for four years. When Hicks started, he knew nothing about tennis, and he is now preparing to start playing in tournaments.

“He has helped me so much,” Hicks said. “He is patient with beginners. The biggest thing is, he taught me to stay calm under pressure. He is really funny and makes tennis so much fun.”

You don’t have to be a River Strand resident to take lessons there. Individual racquet sport memberships are $1,200 for a year, or $600 from May-September. (Family memberships are $1,500 or $800, respectively.)

Take an opportunity to learn from a great teacher, and a better person.

While you are at it, donate that old equipment gathering cobwebs in your closet. There are people who need it a lot more than you do.

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

Ryan Kohn

Abdul Idi was honored by his hometown in Nigeria for his work in the youth tennis community.

JUST NOW SEEING THIS PROMOTION??

Bring this coupon into any Manatee Family YMCA and EXTEND the January offer! Receive $0 Joining Fee! (Valid until 02/14/19)

FREE “6 WEEKS TO FITNESS SUCCESS”, Access to all branches and Nationwide Access, 100+ FREE group exercise classes, State-of-the-art cardio fitness centers, Swimming Pools, Locker Rooms, FREE Child Care, Water Aerobics, Youth Sports, Swim Lessons, Camp, and more!

MANATEE FAMILY YMCA LOCATIONS Lakewood Ranch

5100 Lakewood Ranch Blvd Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211

Bradenton

3805 59th St W Bradenton, FL 34209

Parrish

12214 US-301 Parrish, FL 34219

941-798-9622 manateeymca.org

297185-1

18A

D’Angelo Antonino is a 6-foot-3 junior forward on the Braden River High boys basketball team.

Antonino had 21 points and seven rebounds in the Pirates’ 51-44 home win Jan. 23 against Riverview High.

When did you start playing basketball?

When I was 4. My parents (Joe and Allynda Antonino) had me playing right away.

What is the appeal to you?

I just love the game. It’s a family sport, and I want to keep playing it in college.

What is your best skill?

Finishing and being a leader. I want everyone to be involved all the time. I bring people’s heads up when we are down.

What has been your biggest challenge?

My family has moved around a lot. We actually lived here when I was 3 but moved back to Texas, and we moved around within Texas, too. It makes it hard to help build a program. That is why I am glad I can be at Braden River next year, too, to help build things.

What is the best advice you have received?

Always keep your head high. Be a team player. Colleges see everything you do, not just your stats.

|

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

19A

Andy’s Carpet Cleaning ing Ser v ee at n Ma y for nt Cou ars! e 50 y

291241-1

D’Angelo Antonino

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

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

941.746.8201

Tile & Grout • Upholstery • Pressure Washing Licensed, Bonded & Insured

Finish this sentence: “D’Angelo Antonino is ... ” ... A leader, someone who will always be there for his team.

What is your favorite memory?

My freshman year, I played at Bandera High in Bandera, Texas.

(Antonino moved to Lakewood Ranch prior to this school year.) I got called up to the varsity team, and my first game I dropped 20 points. That was awesome.

287779-1

#1 in Orthopedic Care

Sarasota & Manatee Counties #1 in Orthopedic Care

Two Great Courses

Sarasota & Manatee Counties

One Awesome Price!

UND OWN ER NEW Brad ERSHI e Beau nton’s Mo P! t

Terrifi iful Layo st ut c Con dition s!

5499AM $3999PM $ OFF $ RACK RATE 2999 After 1:30 PM

(not valid with other offers)

5

mention offer when booking

Full Size Driving Range

10325 Greenfield Blvd., Bradenton

6600 River Club Blvd., Bradenton

www.Greenfield.Golf

www.Riverclub.Golf

Book Online & SAVE!

Book Online & SAVE!

941-747-9432

941-751-4211

Design

of West Florida, Inc.

Build

Maintain

Professional In-House Construction Family Owned and Operated Since 1994

W E S T F L O R I D A’ S P R E M I E R P O O L B U I L D E R www.HolidayPoolsFlorida.com

Call today to schedule an appointment

941.927.1882 Lic# CPC1458597

us o n

Same Day Appointments Available Sarasota Lakewood Ranch •Available Venice Same Day •Appointments

Sarasota • Lakewood Ranch • Venice

941.951.BONE (2663) • www.SOA.md

294911-1

ALL YOU CAN PLAY

293945-1

or

297319-1

$

like

CIAL

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

20A

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

LOCAL SINCE 1983

PORT CHARLOTTE 266 Bangsberg Road SE $2,999,999 Melissa Caldwell & Courtney Green 941.266.8829

LAUREL OAK ESTATES

UNIVERSITY PARK COUNTRY CLUB

COUNTRY CLUB EAST 16523 Berwick Terrace $689,000 Laura Stavola 941.447.4875

LAUREL LAKES 2776 Harvest Drive $549,900 Larry Johns & Jill Johns 941.266.8814

LAKEWOOD RANCH 5314 Bentgrass Way $425,000 Katina Shanahan & Kenneth Shanahan

941.702.0437

LAKEWOOD RANCH 7719 Sudbury Glen $950,000 Jim Soda & Donna Soda 941.961.5857

COUNTRY CLUB EAST 7520 Windy Hill Cove $654,500 Sandy Gillette & Thomas Netzel 941.504.0170

BOCA ROYALE 61 Cayman Isles Boulevard $479,000 Dan Olson & Maryanne Kurtz 941.223.0037

PALMER SQUARE WEST 3611 Square West Lane #18 $412,000 Judie Berger 941.928.3424

FOUNDERS CLUB 3331 Founders Club Drive $1,779,000 Glo Reber & Stephanie Shaw 941.400.5384

LAKEWOOD RANCH 7304 Greystone Street $1,495,000 Valerie Dall’Acqua 941.445.7295

2900 Alex Mckay Place $1,199,000 Jerry Zaback 941.350.6885

7408 Mayfair Court $999,900 Toi Estes 941.896.2317

GLOBAL SINCE 1744

PremierSothebysRealty.com

THE LAKE CLUB 16204 Daysailor Trail $1,097,000 Laura Stavola 941.447.4875

MANASOTA KEY

UNIVERSITY PARK COUNTRY CLUB 7651 Heathfield Court $845,000 Toi Estes 941.896.2317

6075 Manasota Key Road $799,900 Victoria Stultz 941.387.5676

LAKEWOOD RANCH 4716 Royal Dornoch Circle $599,000 Toi Estes 941.896.2317

OAK FORD 12979 North Branch Road $594,500 Lori Carey 941.780.3427

MALLORY PARK 11404 Golden Bay Place $475,000 Jim Soda & Donna Soda 941.961.5857

GREENBROOK 14717 Sundial Place $464,900 Ashley Dooley 941.400.1551

LAKEWOOD RANCH 14406 Whitemoss Terrace $375,000 Jim Soda & Donna Soda 941.961.5857

WHITFIELD ESTATES 359 Pearl Avenue $345,000 Roberta Tengerdy & Carolyn Collins 941.321.2292

FOXFIRE WEST 4981 Hubner Circle $1,600,000 Joel Schemmel & Sharon Chiodi 941.587.4894

BRADENTON 7910 Sloane Gardens Court $1,060,000 Laura Pearson & Don Wood 941.993.5167

BAREFOOT BEACH 1700 Gulf Boulevard #203 $795,000 Robert Sherman 941.313.1301

VILLAGES OF PALM AIRE 7110 Treymore Court $575,500 Thomas Netzel 941.539.0633

SUMMERFIELD 6509 Summer Blossom Lane $449,000 Stacy Tocci 941.592.6002

PORT CHARLOTTE 4573 Colleen Street $1,550,000 Beth Sargent & Richard Bradway 941.716.1277

ENGLEWOOD 717A North Manasota Key Road $1,049,900 Victoria Stultz 941.387.5676

LAUREL OAK 7811 Allen Robertson Place $730,000 Corbett Donovan & Lauren Holt 941.232.5672

SANDHILL PRESERVE 11190 Sandhill Preserve Drive $559,000 Joel Schemmel 941.587.4894

SUMMERWOOD 2 1731 Old Summerwood Boulevard $425,000 Bridgett Byzewski 941.780.0462

CONCESSION 8313 Farington Court $330,000 Jim Soda & Donna Soda 941.961.5857

SARASOTA 346 Scott Avenue West $319,900 Tony Souza 941.928.1040

YO U R H O U S E . T H E I R H O M E .

Over the years, hundreds of owners have placed their trust in the area’s most

8 0 0 . 74 9. 7 3 6 8 | R E N T S A R A S O TA .C O

experienced team of luxury rental professionals. Let us make your house their home.

LAKEWOOD RANCH | 941.907.9541

CALL US FOR YOUR INTRODUCTION TO THE EXTRAORDINARY

LONGBOAT KEY | 941.383.1526 RENTALS | 941.364.4032

SARASOTA - EAST | 941.260.8875 SARASOTA - DOWNTOWN | 941.364.4000 ST. ARMANDS | 941.383.2500 VENICE TO PUNTA GORDA | 941.412.3323

293899-1

PremierSothebysRealty.com

Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate.

Classifieds 14B Games 13B Real Estate 11B Weather 13B

JANUARY 31, 2019

YOUR NEIGHBORS

Photos by Jay Heater

Rebekah and Jeff Boudrie say their rescue dog, Lola, has brought much love into their lives.

Lakewood Ranch’s Carol Ohlendorf and Stoneybrook’s Sue Morrison support Corks for Canines and Cats along with Kenzie, Morrison’s Yorkie.

Wine to the rescue H

University Park’s Anne Gold brought her Chihuahua terrier mix, Katy, who came from the Lakewood Ranch Humane Society.

Lakewood Ranch’s Maggie Abcunas tries to wrap her arms around Matilda.

ONLINE

293667-1

Sarasota violinist Paul Leonov provides the evening’s entertainment.

See more photos at YourObserver.com

ugging his own rescue dog, Jeff Boudrie was asked what he would say to anyone who was thinking about adopting a dog from the Humane Society at Lakewood Ranch.

“I would say, ‘Who rescues who?’” Boudrie said. “A dog brings so much love and enjoyment into your life.”

Boudrie and his wife, Rebekah, were attending the Jan. 26 Corks for Canines and Cats fundraiser at Fiorelli Winery. The Humane Society at Lakewood Ranch held the event to raise money for its new building at 26920 Gopher Hill Road, Myakka City.

The Boudries were showing off their rescue dog, Lola, whom they adopted from a rescue four years ago. Lola had a severely in-

fected leg injury and wasn’t attracting a lot of interest because of it. But Jeff and Rebekah fell in love and adopted Lola anyway.

Fortunately, Lola recovered and didn’t need to have her leg amputated.

“It was unbelievable how she recovered,” said Rebekah Boudrie, who is on the Humane Society at Lakewood Ranch board.

“She was so resilient. Now she is a member of the Lakewood Ranch Running Club’s 500-Mile Club.”

Several other rescue dog owners had success stories of their own.

“Until every dog has a home, no one should have to go out and buy a dog,” said University Park’s Anne Gold.

— JAY HEATER

2B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

Fundraiser hits high note F riends Claudia Pennington and Glo Reber went to Opera for Animals Singing is Saving on Jan. 26 at Palm Aire Country Club to help raise money for animal rescues along with being able to enjoy some great music.

The shopping and wine were a bonus at the annual dinner and opera event.

“We really support this organization,” said Pennington, a University Place resident, after she and Reber checked

out the silent auction items while enjoying a glass of red wine. “They show you always have something to give ... use your talents.”

The women enjoyed visiting with adoptable dogs from the Humane Society of Sarasota County and kittens from Cat Depot. The Humane Society also brought therapy dogs from its pet therapy program.

— PAM EUBANKS

Annie is a therapy dog who went through the Humane Society of Sarasota’s pet therapy program.

University Place’s Claudia Pennington and Mote Ranch’s Glo Reber enjoyed going through the silent auction items.

Photos by Pam Eubanks

Bradenton’s Dee and Mike Bennett catch up with Mote Ranch’s JoAnn and John Swart.

OASIS co-founder Carol Sparrow, center, tells the crowd about the cats available for adoption from Cat Depot. Volunteers Charlie Fellmeth, left, and Esther Halt, right, show off 6-week-old kittens.

Primary Care for your

EYE CARE WHOLE FAMILY to Our Specialists Family to Geriatrics Now Accepting New Patients!

DIEGO FALLON, MD

Elderly Care

MARY J. MOTT, MPAS, PA-C

Treatment for Binge Eating & ADHD

OSCAR ESPINOSA, MD

Flu Shots & Immunizations Available!

Board Certified Geriatrics & Internal Medicine (Habla Español) Adult and Family Care Physician Assistant Specializing in Allergy and Asthma Family Healthcare Physician, Minor Office Surgery (Habla Español) (pictured from left to right)

Physicals for All Ages Allergy Tests Spirometer No Appointment Necessary Most Insurance Accepted

Mon - Fri 8 am - 5 pm Sat (by appointment only) 10 am - 2 pm

10910 East SR 70, Suite 102 Lakewood Ranch 941-896-3900 Located 1.5 mile East of I-75 on SR70 - Spring Forest Office Park between River Club Blvd. & LWR Blvd.

Coastal Eye Institute is the only comprehensive ophthalmology practice in Lakewood Ranch.

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. Anita Shane, M.D. Jody Abrams, M.D. Paul Brannan, M.D. Garry Condon, M.D.

Comprehensive Eye Exams Laser Cataract Surgery Micro-Incision Cataract Surgery Advanced Lens Implants Glaucoma Care Macular Degeneration LASIK Surgery Pediatric Eye Care Neuro-Ophthalmology Dry Eye Treatment Diabetic Eye Care Oculoplastic Surgery

1427 S. Tamiami Trail • Sarasota 6310 Health Pkwy., Ste. 340 • Lakewood Ranch 217 Manatee Ave. E. • Bradenton

CoastalEye.com • 941-748-1818 • Most Insurance Plans Welcomed 296091-1

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

Robert Toale & Sons,

Welcome to the Dignity Memorial family. ®

is pleased to welcome Robert Toale, Debbie Toale and their sons, Jason and Jeff, to our family of firms in Sarasota and Manatee County. As proud members of North America’s largest network of funeral, cremation and cemetery service providers, the Toale family will continue their commitment to serving families with personal, compassionate care.

THE DIGNITY MEMORIAL NETWORK

Stop by or call for a personal conversation with the Robert Toale family today.

In honor of the Toales and in recognition of their longstanding dedication to the Sarasota and Bradenton area communities, three local funeral homes have been renamed to reflect this change in leadership: > Palms-Robarts Funeral Home & Memorial Park is now ROBERT TOALE & SONS FUNERAL HOME AT PALMS MEMORIAL PARK • 941-371-4962

> Manasota Memorial Park & Funeral Home has been renamed ROBERT TOALE & SONS FUNERAL HOME AT MANASOTA MEMORIAL PARK • 941-755-2688

> Wiegand Brothers Funeral Home will be called ROBERT TOALE & SONS FUNERAL HOME – WIEGAND CHAPEL • 941-921-5755

In addition to these name changes, two of the funeral homes will undergo renovations to better serve our community with beautiful new facilities and enhanced capabilities. Rely on the Robert Toale family and your local Dignity Memorial professionals to help you and your loved ones celebrate each life like no other.

For more information, visit www.DignityMemorial.com.

298095-1

3B

4B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

African focus Professional photographer presents her passion at a local exhibit.

PAM EUBANKS SENIOR EDITOR

P

hotographer Sally Ullman’s heart is in Africa.

It was there she watched a lion bask in the sun, and she was sitting so close she could see a tick on his ear.

She watched an elephant walk through the brush, his large ivory tusks drawing more attention than his enormous body.

Ullman’s personal lifelong dream has been to travel to Africa and see such wildlife, which she did for the first time in April 2016 and then again in October 2018.

That dream has evolved into a passion to make a difference, particularly in helping with animal conservation efforts.

“I can’t tell you (why Africa) other than it’s my passion,” said Ullman, a resident of University Place. “I think it’s the wildness, seeing something you may never see again. I had the desire to see (the animals) in the wild, and I’m certainly not done.”

A professional photographer for more than 40 years, Ullman is determined to return to Africa and to use her photographic skills to give back.

WANT TO HELP? University Place photographer Sally Ullman has set up a fundraising account to help African wildlife through the African Wildlife Foundation, an education and conservation organization. To contribute, visit awf. org. Ullman’s fundraising identification number is 10383754.

On Jan. 25, she hosted “Return to Africa,” a show and sale of her African safari photographs, at Courtyard by Marriott at University Town Center. Donations collected and a portion of proceeds benefited the African Wildlife Foundation.

Ullman said she also is actively looking for opportunities in which she can volunteer in Africa, whether using her skills as a photographer or volunteering at an animal sanctuary.

“Something to help. I don’t always want to go as a tourist,” Ullman said. “I would love to do something humanitarian.”

She has set up a fundraising account with the African Wildlife Foundation and is giving personally to it, as well as hoping others will contribute.

Ullman’s career in photography started in photojournalism, working in Pennsylvania for

Pam Eubanks

Sally Ullman says she’s always wanted to travel to Africa, and now wants to help protect wildlife there.

Rodale Inc., a publishing company. Her photographs were featured in magazines like Prevention. She even spent four years specializing in food photography before opening her own studio in 1990.

She operated that business until 2013, when she moved to Florida and reopened her business here.

Ullman said her photographs of Africa are personal. Although they can be purchased, she did not take them to make money.

“There’s always a story behind the photo,” she said. “It’s not a snapshot to me. It’s art.”

During her last trip, Ullman

hired a guide to take her and friend, Jennifer Lee, to Zambia to see the top of Victoria Falls, a waterfall that plunges more than 100 meters. The waterfall’s top is accessible only certain times of year and the pair walked through waist-high water, holding on to a rope, until they got to the edge of the waterfall. Ullman dared to bring her cell phone, but not her high-end camera equipment for photos as they stood just feet from the ledge.

“It was terrifying and thrilling,” she said. “It was magnificent.

Fish were nipping at our feet the whole time. There were rainbows

behind you. It was stunning.”

The rest of the trip she spent with group tours, riding Jeeps through African prairies. She saw elephants cooling themselves at waterholes and lions with faces stained with blood after eating their morning meal.

She said she looked at each with a photographer’s eyes, and the experience made her more passionate about finding ways to help protect African wildlife.

She said the art show and her fundraising campaign with the African Wildlife Foundation are a first step toward making a difference.

Austin Brinling ‘19 2015-16 Taylor Emmons Scholarship Recipient

$2.2 MILLION

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AWARDED ANNUALLY

100%

C O LL EGE A C CE PTANC E

The Taylor Emmons Scholarship is a 4-year, full tuition award to an incoming 9th grade student who demonstrates high character and a commitment to his/her academic, athletic, and artistic interests.

APPLY TO BECOME AN EMMONS SCHOL AR TODAY Historic Siesta Key Campus: Pre-K - Grade 5 | Uihlein Campus in Lakewood Ranch: Grades 6 - 12 | Sarasota, FL

297965-1

941-203-3640 | www.ODA.edu/emmons

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

MTC students advance

Courtesy photo

Lisa Kirkland, who will be the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance chairwoman in 2020, joins outgoing Chairman Kim French, Alliance Executive Director Heather Kasten and 2019 Chairwoman Heather Williams at the Membership Luncheon.

Fourteen Manatee Technical College students will represent MTC at the Health Occupations Students of American-Future Health Professionals State Leadership Conference from March 28-30 in Orlando.

The students advanced with top three performances Jan. 17 at the Regional Conference competition at MTC’s Lakewood Ranch campus.

In the Knowledge Test Phar-

macology division, MTC’s Anna Zantiso was first, Brenda Baxcajay was second and Isais Zelaye was third. In the Transcultural Healthcare division, MTC’s Jessica Martinez was first and Sarely Gutierrez was second. In the Medical Reading division, Akera Sanders was first. In the Medical Terminology division, MTC’s Martha Liberti was first, Mildred Morales was second and Julia Antunez was third. In the Pharmacy Science division, MTC’s Marisol Sanchez-Silos was first and Samantha Cowie was second. In the Job Seeking Skills division, Elaine Herrera was first. In the Health Career Display Team division, MTC’s Bri Jones and Christina Narducci were first.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

MTC Law Enforcement Academy issues top honors

Four students in a class of 26 who graduated from the Florida Law Enforcement Academy at Manatee Technical College were presented with top honors Jan. 16 in the Braden River High School auditorium.

Amanda Thurber was honored for her skills as class leader, Devon Carr earned the highest academic achievement award, Keith English earned the award for best driving skills, and Gary Cummings earned the class award for best firearms skills.

Manatee County Sheriff Rick Wells was the keynote speaker.

5B

NEIGHBORS NOTES

higher to make the list. ... East County’s Claudia Sbaschnik, a freshman, was named to Albion College’s dean’s list for the fall 2018 semester. Students must maintain a 3.5 or above GPA.

|

Discover our Homes

Alliance hosts Membership Luncheon Kerkering Barberio & Co.’s Heather Williams was introduced as the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance’s 2019 chairwoman Jan. 25 at the annual Membership Luncheon at The Ballroom at Grove in Lakewood Ranch.

Williams takes over from outgoing chair Kim French.

The Membership Luncheon is considered the Alliance’s signature event and includes the introduction of the 28-member board of directors for the new year. Outgoing board members also are honored at the event.

Heather Kasten, the Alliance’s executive director, talked about the group’s highlight events this coming year.

Rainy day gesture

Maduro Cigar & Bar and Diamond Vault were excited about being the event sponsors Jan. 27 at the Sarasota Polo Club.

Unfortunately on the big day, the rain washed out the event.

While that was depressing enough, the sponsors had ordered food for 50 from Mouthole BBQ. However, they didn’t want the feast to go to waste, so they sent the food to Station 11 of the Sarasota County Fire Department for the first responders.

Local students in the news East County’s Kirsten Whitford graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University in December with a bachelor of arts degree. ... East County’s Joseph Lauro, a senior, was named to the dean’s list at Bucknell University during the fall semester. A student must earn a grade-point average of 3.5 of

O P E N H O U S E • F e b rua ry 2 n d & 3 r d 16 VILL AGES TO CHOOSE FROM | 70+ MODEL HOMES | MOVE-IN RE ADY HOMES NEW HOMES FROM THE $200S TO OVER $1 MILLION

Low-Cost Vaccines & Prevention

Low-Cost Spay/Neuter

I N F O R M AT I O N C E N T E R – N O R T H

I N F O R M AT I O N C E N T E R – S O U T H

11506 Rangeland Parkway • 941-753-1469

6220 University Parkway • 941-907-6000

Potato 297985-1

Loves ARC

941.957.1955 | ARCSRQ.org 6320 Tower Lane, Sarasota, FL 34240

© 2019 Lakewood Ranch

.com

297841-1

We Can’t Wait to Welcome You Home.

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

SUPER SAVINGS! For over four decades, residents in the Sarasota, Manatee, and Bradenton area have trusted Aqua Plumbing & Air to meet a full range of services with 100% dedication to your satisfaction.

99 OFF ANY WATER HEATER $

AND INSTALLATION *Cannot be combined with other offers. Must present coupon at time of service.

Contact Aqua Plumbing & Air at 941-866-6210 for complete details. Expires on 2/28/2019.

FREE

*

SERVICE CALL WITH A/C REPAIR

*Valid on Air Conditioning services only. Cannot be combined with other offers. Must present coupon at time of service. Contact Aqua Plumbing & Air at 941-866-6210 for complete details.

Expires on 2/28/2019.

Our friendly technicians are available 24 hours a day for your emergency service needs. Simply give Aqua Plumbing & Air a call, day or night, and let one of our technicians help you with your problem. We are always here to assist you.

“My husband and I would like to express our gratitude to your company for the wonderful service we were provided. Michael was the services technician dispatched to our home. He was courteous and impressed us with his professional knowledge. He represents your company extremely well. We will highly recommend your company to our customers without any hesitation.”

Chuck Jacobson & Skip Stanton, Owners

Mr. & Mrs. D.V.

Plumbing • Air Conditioning • Electrical • Water Treatment

BEST BET

YOUR CALENDAR

6B

FRIDAY, FEB. 1

Courtesy photo

COMMUNITY FRIDAY, FEB. 1 THROUGH SUNDAY, FEB. 3

CIRQUE MA’CEO Begins at 6 p.m. Friday, 3:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. Saturday and 3:30 p.m. Sunday at Big Cat Habitat & Gulf Coast Sanctuary, 7101 Palmer Blvd., Sarasota. Cirque Ma’Ceo, described as a theatrical European-style, equestrianthemed cirque show, is the main event of Big Cat Habitat’s Animal Extravaganza and performs with a blend of acrobatics, aerial, dance and equestrian arts. More than 10 breeds of horses will perform classic riding styles. Ticket options, some which include entrance into Big Cat Habitat, and information are available online at cirquemaceo.com or in person at the Big Cat Habitat. Proceeds from the event benefit Big Cat Habitat & Gulf Coast Sanctuary.

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM

MUSIC ON MAIN Runs from 6-9 p.m. at Main Street at Lakewood Ranch. The Betty Fox Band will play soul and blues while a disc jockey will be playing dance music with Top 100 hits. The festivities will benefit Hope Family Services. The street will be lined with food and beer vendors and sponsor booths. Rides and activities, presented by Grace Community Church, will be available for the kids. For information, go to lakewoodranch.com

SATURDAY, FEB. 2

STRAWBERRY FIELDS SHABBAT Begins at 11 a.m. at Hunsader Farms, 5500 County Road 675, Bradenton. Temple Emanu-El, in partnership with the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, is hosting Strawberry Fields Shabbat, a celebration featuring playground time, feeding the animals, picking strawberries, and celebrating Shabbat with prayers, blessings, songs and stories. The event is intended to celebrate the natural world. For information, call Rabbi Elaine Rose Glickman at 379-1997 and 228-4177.

SUNDAY, FEB. 3

POLO MATCH Gates open at 10 a.m. and the match begins at 1 p.m. at the Sarasota Polo Club, 8201 Polo Club Lane, Lakewood Ranch. Enjoy live polo and tailgating every Sunday through April 14 at the

YOU! Share your opinion and you could

WIN A $250 VISA GIFT CARD!

Please take a few minutes to complete a brief reader survey to help us understand your needs for local news and information and how to make the Observer and YourObserver.com more relevant and useful.

AQUA PLUMBING & AIR THE HOME SERVICE PROS WHO CARE

Call Today! 941.866.6210 License #: CAC1816020; CFC1428223; EC13005269

Visit online at: YourObserver.com/2019Survey or complete the survey in today’s paper. Survey closes Sunday, Feb. 10.

aquaplumbing.com

296198-1

295885-1

Payment options for all credit levels.

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THE MARKET Runs from 3-7 p.m. at the Sarasota Polo Club, 8201 Polo Club Lane, Lakewood Ranch. The Market is a weekly opportunity to shop for farm-fresh food, enjoy live music and events and mingle with other members of the community. For information, go to lakewoodranch.com.

THURSDAY, FEB. 7

CHILI COOK-OFF Runs from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at 6650 Professional Parkway, Lakewood Ranch. The ManateeSarasota Business Industry Association is hosting the Tailgate Chili Cook-off. For information, contact Leslie Weed at leslie@ ms-bia.org. The event is free and open to the public for those who want to become a member. The event will include raffles, food, drinks, cornhole and networking.

Feel free to bring chili.

NEW SCHOOL MEETING Runs from 6:30-8 p.m. in the cafeteria at B.D. Gullett Elementary School, 12125 44th Ave. E., Bradenton. Dr. Mona Jain Middle School Principal Angela Lindsey will host this informational meeting for parents of prospective students. Lindsey will answer questions and provide information to parents. For information, contact lindseya@manateeschools.net.

THURSDAY, FEB. 7 THROUGH SUNDAY, FEB. 10 GREEK FESTIVAL Runs from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday through Saturday and noon to 8 p.m. on Sunday at

1/2 OFF ENTIRE SHOWROOM 35th Anniversary Sale

NOWFEB 13th

FREE Leather Care Kit

SATURDAY, FEB. 9

($40 value) One per family.

No purchase necessary.

Expires 2/13/19.

We are the area’s number one choice for quality leather furniture. Our gallery consists of a beautiful collection of leather furnishings from all the top brands. When you choose Sarasota Leather Gallery, you know you’re getting the industry’s finest at the lowest prices possible.

With our furniture, we guarantee that your home will be the talk of the town!

LEARN TO FISH SEMINAR Begins at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. at Summerfield Park, 6310 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. The Lakewood Ranch Community Activities and the Lakewood Ranch Anglers Club host the Learn to Fish Seminar.

All participants receive a free rod and reel provided by Fish Florida.

The event is free but preregistration is required. For information, go to lwrcac.com.

CELEBRATE SAVINGS

WITH UP TO 1/2 OFF ENTIRE SHOWROOM

DOGGIES FOR DUCHENNE 5K Begins at 7:30 a.m. at 5261 Paylor Lane, Lakewood Ranch. The Doggies for Duchenne 5K benefits both the Humane Society at Lakewood Ranch and Another Day for Gray. The event includes a 5K, a 1-mile walk, kids races, a human and canine race and other events. Age group awards will be given for first, second and third places. For information and fees, go to runsignup.com/Race/FL/ Sarasota/Doggies4Duchenne.

LEATHER GALLERY and

BEDDING CENTER

941- 993 -1057 | 5251 S. Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) Sarasota, FL ( 1.5 Miles South of Bee Ridge Road ) Mon.-Fri. 10am-7pm • Sat. 10am-6pm • Sun. 12Noon-5pm

GUARANTEED BEST PRICING • LIFETIME WARRANTY • FREE FINANCING SINCE 1984 • WE SHIP ANYWHERE • LEATHERGALLERYSARASOTA.COM

MAXhealth is pleased to welcome

E LESLIE SCHWARTZ, MD PN ATI E W

Extraordinary Luxury Living!

Board Certified in Internal Medicine

Models Now Open Daily!

WE

• On Site Diagnostic Imaging • On Site Blood Draw/Lab Services • On Site Prescription Services

Introducing Hidden Creek • Three Spacious Floor Plans • Located in Lakewood Ranch, FL

Ideal for the Young Professionals.

Perfect Solution When Downsizing.

7B

296436-1

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 6

UP TO

the St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church, 7671 N. Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota. The 35th annual Greek Festival, The Glendi, features Greek food, crafts, music and dancing by the church’s Hellenic Dancers. A kids’ adventure zone will be offered Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the festival. Free parking is available on-site or take a shuttle from 1 mile north of St. Barbara Church at Church of the Trinity on Friday through Sunday. Admission is $4 on Friday through Sunday for adults. Children under 12 are free. No charge for admission on Thursday. For information, go to stbarbarafestival.org or call 355-2616.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

No CDD

11505 Palmbrush Trail Suite 220 Lakewood Ranch

941.203.1839 River Club Blvd

Customize these large homes to your every desire in our gated community. Elevators and first floor master suites are available. Enjoy large rooms & oversized 2-car garage.

From 2,166 sq ft to 2,818 sq ft.

N LCO TS M E!

ACC E PT MO I NG S INS U RA T NCE Lakewood Ranch Blvd

Sarasota Polo Club. For information, go to sarasotapolo.com.

|

E State Rd 70 Palmbrush Trail

Relax at our large heated lap pool with cabana, hot tub and firepit. Walk your pet in a natural setting with dog stations throughout.

Visit us during Parade of Homes #44 on map.

LIMITED TIME SALES INCENTIVES NOW AVAILABLE!

Building Florida for 46 Years

TOWNHOMES AT LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL

License Number CGC004432

XNLV17255

www.HiddenCreekLWR.com

Wesley Hardin, PA-C

Leslie Schwartz, MD Board Certified Internal Medicine

Daniela Kassabov, MD Board Certified Family Medicine

Harvey S. Mishner, MD Board Certified Internal Medicine

296165-1

CALL 727.743.6649

8B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

|

The art of winter

L

akewood Ranch 11-yearold Brynn Midura had so much to do.

She was checking out her skill at sand art Jan. 25, pouring red sand into a heart-shaped container during Imagine School at Lakewood Ranch’s Winter Wonderland event.

Then it was off to the carnival-style games, inflatables and sledding down a snow-covered slope.

“I like basically everything here,” she said.

So did the rest of the crowd enjoying Imagine School’s annual event.

Photos by Pam Eubanks

Above: Firstgraders Landon Turnbull and Augusto Strubbe have their hands full of blue raspberry cotton candy.

Left: Lakewood Ranch 11-yearold Brynn Midura flashes a smile while having fun.

— PAM EUBANKS

Four-year-old Danny Lawson cannot wipe the smile off his face as he bounces at Winter Wonderland.

NO JOB TOO TOUGH. NO JOB TOO ROUGH!

GRAND OPENING EVENT GRANDFEBRUARY OPENING EVENT 15-17 FEBRUARY 15-17

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

THE THE GREEN GREEN AT AT LAKEWOOD LAKEWOOD RANCH RANCH

293677-1

(near Earth Fare)

#1 in Customer Service CCC 016 171 Building Contractor

CCC 014 711 Roofing 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

Free Base Site Rent for 6 months!

Resort Style 55+ Active Community Private Marina on Manatee River Brand New Homes starting under $98,000, Limited Availability

WIN FREE DOG FOOD FOR A YEAR!*

WIN FREE DOG FOODRaffles, FORand A YEAR!* Free Events, Product Giveaways, Much More!

Free Events, Product Giveaways, Raffles, and Much More!

For more details visit our website at www.dogperfect.com.

Enjoy all our amenities, activities and events!

ENJOY 5 CLUBHOUSES, HEATED POOLS AND OVER 100 SOCIAL CLUBS.

296838-1

* Not transferable. In-store pick up only, shipping not available. Must be enrolled in one of our * Not transferable. up 1only, not available.

Must becalendar enrolledmonth. in one of our Where DogsIn-store Rule VIPpick plans. bagshipping any size/brand or 12 cans per Where Dogs Rule VIP plans. 1 bag any size/brand or 12 cans per calendar month.

Call Us Today! 941-722-7874 293474-1

For more details visit our website at www.dogperfect.com.

Connect with us @officialdogperfect.

Connect with us @officialdogperfect.

101 Amsterdam Avenue, Ellenton, FL 34222 MyMHCommunity.com

3 Acre Garden Center • SW FL Pottery Center • Nursery

Plants & garden accessories since 1953

Your

FARM & GARDEN

%

2U0LCoffH

Visit us at Facebook

MLE ENDS FEB. 6 SA

Save 20% on Mulch.

Come check out our supply of mulch and save big when you spruce up your garden beds and walk ways.

We carry: Red • Brown • Pine bark Cypress blend • Florimulch®

Landscape for your lifestyle!

Our dramatic designs will save you maintenance, time and cost by providing: • low-maintenance grasses • drought-tolerant plants • less use of fertilizers • bushes with no pruning

735 South Beneva Road, Sarasota, FL 34232

293881-1

High quality service at a competitive price.

•

941 366 4954

•

www.YourFarmandGarden.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

Advertisement

|

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

9B

Advertisement

Find Your Perfect Fit at The Founders Club uyers are drawn to The Founders Club’s perfect fit. Location, style, comfort – the Founders Club has it all, with amenities and homes designed to fit a variety of lifestyles, interests and hobbies.

When it comes to finding a place that feels like home, The Founders Club creates an ideal setting for fostering camaraderie and community, with homesite options designed around lakes, preserves and fairways.

Choices abound in The Founders Club – whether that’s selecting a home design from five preferred homebuilders – Anchor Builders, Lee Wetherington Homes, London Bay Homes, Nelson Homes and Nutter Custom Construction – or filling your calendar with social, sport and wellness activities, residents find a place all their own that speaks to how they want to live.

Golf is a big part of life at The Founders Club, and its 18-hole championship golf course is another example of “a perfect fit.”

Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., the With only 275 golf memberships and no tee times required, the Robert Trent Jones Jr.-designed championship golf course at The Founders Golf and Social course offers something for everyone.

Club was carved from the natural landscape, Members of The Founders Golf and Social Club can with each hole sculpted in harmony with take part in men’s, women’s and couples’ golf leagues, the natural beauty of its surroundings. and tennis, yoga and Pilates classes are also included in That means the 7,094-yard, par 72 layout membership dues. Staying active comes easily at The features a backdrop of mighty oak, pine and Founders Club, where exercise buffs of all kinds feel palm trees and is dotted with tranquil lakes, right at home. The fitness center offers state-of-theunspoiled wetlands and natural buffers of art equipment for cardio or weight-based workouts. untamed landscapes.

Or residents can challenge their neighbors to some For avid golfers, getting out on the friendly competition on the community’s basketball, Scottish Links-style course is like a dream sand volleyball or Har-Tru tennis courts. come true. No tee times are required and And the golf course isn’t the only amenity to take crowds aren’t an issue, since membership is advantage of the beautiful natural surroundings. Miles limited to 275. Members can walk the course of winding paths throughout the 700-acre community at their own pace – utilizing Sarasota’s only offer peaceful spots for walking, running and biking traditional caddie program – and enjoy the amid lakes, wetlands and towering stands of pine, game as it’s meant to be. palm and oak trees.

The course is a “core” design, where Residents find it easy to fit right into the active golfers don’t cross any roads during play and social life at The Founders Club. The classically elegant where homes are carefully set back from the Golf Hall hosts a full calendar of activities and events, greens. But those homes still enjoy sweeping including cooking classes, wine tastings, monthly golf course views, allowing homeowners to The Founders Club offers Sarasota’s only traditional caddie mixers and health and wellness sessions. When it’s take in lush vegetation and the wildlife that program. time for a meal, residents can choose what matches lives among it. more than 25 years of teaching and golf management their mood and appetite, opting for traditional, pubAnd if things out on the course aren’t going as perfectly as members may like, The Founders Golf experience. Or members can work on their game at style fare at the Gillespie Grille Room, alfresco dining and Social Club also boasts a state-of-the-art teaching the Club’s putting greens, short game area for practice at the Grand Verandah overlooking the 18th green facility, where seasoned pros help members improve sessions and large driving range, using complimentary or a sophisticated dinner prepared by the highly their skills. That includes head golf professional Anne Titleist Pro V1 practice balls that are engineered for acclaimed culinary staff at the Scotsman Room.

With so many choices and appealing amenities, McClure, a Class A PGA member since 1995 with lower scores.

The Founders Club feels like a perfect fit for residents no matter their interests or design styles

298133-1

Offering stunning views of lakes, wetlands or wide fairways – sometimes all three – homes at The Founders Club offer ideal settings for gathering outdoors and enjoying evening sunsets.

To discover your perfect fit at The Founders Club, call 941-404-3107 or visit www.TheFoundersClub.com

10B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

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

F O U N D E R S C LU B 3200 Founders Club Drive Richard Hearn 941-313-1591 A4415698 $1,325,000

L A K E C LU B 16206 Clearlake Avenue Deborah Angelo O'Mara 941-730-0777 A4417456 $1,275,000

C OU NTRY C LU B E A ST AT L A K E WO O D R A N C H 15402 Linn Park Terrace Laura Naese & Deborah Angelo O'Mara 941-350-3657 A4408203 $1,195,000

C O U N T RY C LU B E A S T 16711 Berwick Terrace Stacy Haas & Gloria Bracciano 941-587-4359 A4424169 $997,900

T I D E WAT E R P R E S E RV E 1108 Bearing Court Bryan Dwyer & Jonnie Dwyer 941-809-9106 A4423796 $704,900

B R A D E N WO O D S 9606 Braden Run Debbie Vogler 941-705-3328 A4410264 $599,000

R I V E R C LU B 10144 Cherry Hills Avenue Circle Gloria Bracciano & Stacy Haas, PL 786-348-9488 A4414687 $599,000

D E S O T O AC R E S 2271 53rd Street Judy Nimz & William Nimz 941-374-0196 A4413494 $595,000

L E G E N D S B AY 5322 Title Row Drive Adam Cuffaro 941-812-0791 A4417139 $594,000

C O U N T RY C LU B E A S T 14527 Leopard Creek Place Autumn Moore 941-320-5823 A4424038 $497,900

E L C O N Q U I STA D O R V I LL AG E 4115 Pinar Drive Adam Cuffaro 941-812-0791 A4408678 $489,000

U N I V E R S I T Y P L AC E 7715 Drayton Circle Stacy Haas & Gloria Bracciano 941-587-4359 A4414361 $464,900

R O S E DA L E 8748 53rd Terrace E Sue Cosgrove-Lee & Chris Baylis 941-400-9068 A4423179 $445,000

NORTHSHORE AT RIVIER A DUNES 302 11th Avenue E Kathy Valente 941-685-6767 A4416300 $439,000

FIDDLERS GREEN 9146 16th Avenue Circle NW Mackenzie Longueuil & Pat Mudgett 941-961-4023 A4418940 $439,000

HARMONY 5260 Bentgrass Way Leah Frisosky 941-932-1467 A4424484 $410,000

R O S E DA L E 8728 51st Terrace E Kathy Valente 941-685-6767 A4424436 $375,000

W E S T B AYO U 1220 64th Street NW Ryndie Brusco 941-809-6913 A4419163 $360,000

PERIDIA 4320 Pro Am Avenue E Mark Boehmig 941-807-6936 A4425089 $320,000

BR ADEN RIVER 3808 Maplewwod Terr Laura Rulon 941-896-2757 A4423348 $319,000

SONOMA 8148 Villa Grande Court Richard Hearn 941-313-1591 A4424028 $300,000

PERIDIA 4316 Pro Am Avenue E Mark Boehmig & Cathy Palmer 941-807-6936 A4424009 $300,000

THE TR AILS 7116 39th Lane E Maureen Doherty & Patrick Doherty 941-993-3159 A4424589 $295,500

L AG U N A AT R I V I E R A D U N E S 610 Riviera Dunes Way 406 Kathy Valente & Gregory Zies 941-685-6767 A4413804 $285,000

KINGSFIELD 11764 Shirburn Circle Kristi Berger & Deborah Capobianco 941-730-3801 A4411164 $275,000

TH E VI LL AG E AT TOWN PA R K 8926 Manor Loop 107 Diane Fogo Harter 941-445-2431 A4423627 $200,000

MIRROR LAKE 3724 59th Avenue W Leah Secondo 941-545-4430 A4424194 $100,000

L A K E WO O D R A N C H C O U N T RY C LU B 12806 Deacons Place Stacy Haas & Gloria Bracciano 941-587-4359 A4419933 $1,950,000

NORTHWEST BR ADENTON 312 77th Street NW Thomas Cinquegrano 941-284-5049 A4400188 $1,699,000

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

OPEN HOUSES SUNDAYS 1–4 PM

michaelsaunders.com

L A K E WO O D R A N C H C O U N T RY C LU B 6931 Winners Circle Nicole Ryskamp 941-807-1766 A4418358 $1,550,000

8 8 8 . 552 . 52 2 8

michaelsaunders.com L I C E N S E D R E A L E S TAT E B RO K E R

298198-1

CONCESSION 8439 Lindrick Lane Tina Ciaccio 941-685-8420 A4424088 $3,275,000

CONCESSION 8484 Lindrick Lane Tina Ciaccio 941-685-8420 A4411835 $1,395,000

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

RESEARCH EDITOR

A

home in Lake Club topped all transactions in this week’s real estate.

Tammy and Michael Miller sold their home at 15903 Clearlake Ave., to Gregor and Monika Bodenmann, of Waldstatt, Switzerland, for $1.1 million. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,619 square feet of living area.

HARBOUR WALK

Eric Deppert and Kathleen Boyle, of Corpus Christi, Texas, sold their home at 584 Fore Drive to H. Douglas and Holly Tripp, of Bradenton, for $840,000. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,475 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $803,000 in 2016.

RICHMOND PARK

Wallace Camp, trustee, of Scarborough, Maine, sold the home at 8136 Collingwood Court to William and Sharon Lyons, of University Park, for $775,000.

Built in 1999, it has four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and is 3,609 square feet.

BRIDGEWATER

Carlos and Amelia Guerra sold their home at 13820 Swiftwater Way to National Residential Nominee Services Inc., for $675,000. The home was then sold to James and Julie Ann Landero, of South Abilene, Texas, for $675,000. Built in 2017, it has six bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,967 square feet of living area. It sold for $620,000 in 2017.

WATERLEFE GOLF AND RIVER CLUB

Howard and Robyn Drourr, of Bradenton, sold their home at 943 Fish Hook Cove to Dennis VanDyke, trustee, of Bradenton, for $650,000. Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 2,882 square feet. It sold for $655,700 in 2004.

GREYHAWK LANDING

Ray and Cheryl Ehsani, of Bradenton, sold their home at 12727 Penguin Drive to Jeffrey and Christine Owen, of Bethpage, N.Y., for $602,500. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,229 square feet of living area. It sold for $613,800 in 2006.

Richard and Blanche Cochran sold their home at 327 Petrel Trail to Christian and Jennifer Klein, of Bradenton, for $420,000. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,463 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $397,200 in 2005.

11B

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

JAN. 14-18

Anelis Aurand-Araos and Guillermo Sierra sold their home at 13035 Peregrin Circle to Brett and Elizabeth Kuehling, of Bradenton, for $365,000. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,433 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $290,000 in 2015.

TIDEWATER PRESERVE

Melissa Sinclair and Jacob Lepper III, of Bradenton, sold their home at 1008 Lanyard Court to EK Real Estate Services of N.Y. LLC for $561,600. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,640 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $497,500 in 2014.

Margaret and Joseph Posch sold their home at 944 Preservation St., to Charles Dunn, of Bradenton, for $437,500. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, two baths and is 2,428 square feet. It sold for $360,000 in 2014.

PANTHER RIDGE

Denis and Phyllida O’Brien, of Wilts, United Kingdom, sold their home at 20905 77th Ave. E., to Darlene Conceicao, of Bradenton, for $546,000. Built in 1998, it has three bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 2,354 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $425,000 in 2015.

ROSEDALE HIGHLANDS

Gale Ketcham, Karen Giroux and Renee Vicary, of Bradenton, sold their home at 5106 96th St. E., to Gerald Kern and Ivy Kern, trustees, of Battle Lake, Minn., for $471,000. Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and is 2,238 square feet.

Anna Carmichael sold her home at 9711 51st Terrace E., to Zigfrid and Diane Grins, of Smithtown, N.Y., for $432,000. Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,194 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $340,000 in 2012.

Courtesy photo

The Lake Club home at 15903 Clearlake Ave. sold for $1.1 million. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, three baths and a pool.

$360,000. Built in 2014, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,692 square feet of living area. It sold for $311,700 in 2014.

SAVANNA

Meritage Homes of Florida Inc., sold the home at 13807 American Prairie Place to Theodore and Mary Kathleen Adamczyk, of Bradenton, for $357,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,109 square feet.

WATER OAK

Shannon and Kathleen Miller, of Seattle, sold their home at 6757 64th Terrace E., to Vadim and

Susan Brown, of Lancaster, N.Y., sold her home at 7278 Lismore Court to Edward and Terri Kionka, of Bradenton, for $354,000. Built in 2010, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,148 square feet of living area. It sold for $390,000 in 2016.

SEE REAL ESTATE, PAGE 12B

Luxury Living Group StacyHaas.com | SRQLuxuryLiving.com

8325 Lakewood Ranch Blvd. • Lakewood Ranch • 941.587.4359 786.348.9488 Formed under the pretense that exceptional experiences should accompany exceptional real estate, the Luxury Living Group has a mission of elevating the industry standard with every transaction. Compromised of Stacy Haas, Greg Van Natter and Gloria Bracciano, they offer skillsets and backgrounds in design, education and marketing. This leads to compelling communications strategies that deliver results for buyers and sellers alike. In the last year they garnered more than $65 million in sales volume.

Contact the Luxury Living Group for your exceptional experience.

StacyHaas@MichaelSaunders.com GloriaBracciano@MichaelSaunders.com

Albert and Susan Kinal, of Fernandina Beach, sold their home at 6455 Willowshire Way to Steven and Gail Reichenbach, of Bradenton, for $430,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,297 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $337,300 in 2015.

Sultana and Asif Kaba, of Naperville, Ill., sold their home at 6741 Rookery Lake Drive to Ralph Liggett and Barbara WeiselLiggett, of Bradenton, for $369,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,406 square feet of living area.

It sold for $329,000 in 2016.

Eileen and Lawrence MacLaren, of Bradenton, sold their home at 8739 52nd Ave. E., to John and Mary Creagh, of Bradenton, for $420,000. Built in 1995, it has two bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,991 square feet. It sold for $390,000 in 2016.

COUNTRY CLUB VILLAGE

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

HERITAGE HARBOUR

ROSEDALE GOLF AND TENNIS CLUB

Irina Kulikovskiy, of Fairbanks, Alaska, for $355,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,343 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $287,200 in 2003.

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 12806 Deacons Place A4419933 $1,950,000

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 12432 Highfield Circle A4421917 $1,175,000

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 16711 Berwick Terrace A4424169 $997,900

L A K E WO O D R A N C H 12642 Fontana Loop A4412177 $532,800

298199-1

ADAM HUGHES

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

REAL ESTATE

Lake Club home tops local sales at $1.1 million

|

ESPLANADE

William and Tammie Gade, of Bradenton, sold their home at 4938 Savona Run to Anna Lee Carmichael, of Bradenton, for

Licensed Real Estate Broker

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

Real estate

You are invited to a free inspirational talk

FROM PAGE 11B

The Healing Power of Stillness

HIDDEN MEADOWS

Jacco and Hope Vernoort, of Oirschot, Netherlands, sold their home at 2613 65th St. E., to Juan Fuentes Hernandez, of Bradenton, for $343,000. Built in 1991, it has three bedrooms, two-anda-half baths and 2,072 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $289,000 in 2013.

Feel the presence of a deep peace and calm from God’s all-encompasing love

By Larissa Snorek-Yates, CSB of Carlisle, MA A member of the Christian Science Board of Lectureship

at First Church of Christ, Scientist, 702 15th St W, Bradenton, FL

SARACINA AT ESPLANADE

Or view online at: http://bit.ly/StillnessFeb3 SHAUN J. LIMON DPM Diplomate, American Board of Multiple Specialties in Podiatry Board Certified in Primary Care in Podiatric Medicine

298231-1

2 pm, Sunday, Feb. 3, 2019

FOOT PAIN?

LISA GRIFFITH-LIMON DPM Diplomate, American Board of Podiatric Surgery Certified in Foot Surgery

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.

Kenneth and Illona Koehler, trustees, of Monroe Township, N.J., sold the Unit 108 condominium at 13511 Messina Loop to Liz Colosimo, of Bradenton, for $335,000. Built in 2015, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,857 square feet of living area. It sold for $323,000 in 2015.

SABAL HARBOUR

Jonathan Barbee, of Bradenton, sold his home at 4641 Egmont Drive to David Fleming, Sandi Fleming and Sherri Leonard, of Bradenton, for $330,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,736 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $225,500 in 2011.

WOODBROOK

Serving Manatee County since 1998

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS 941.782.8639

CROSSING CREEK VILLAGE

Barbara Sullivan, trustee, and Mark Mansfield, of Bradenton, sold the home at 4715 69th St. E., to Victoria Ellison, of Bradenton, for $303,000. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,901 square feet of living area.

CENTRAL PARK

Thomas and Naomi Becnel, of Sarasota, sold their home at 5008 Torrey Pines Run to Courtenay and Benjamin Smith, of Bradenton, for $298,000. Built in 2011, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,744 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $271,500 in 2014.

DESOTO LAKES COUNTRY CLUB COLONY

Scott and Amanda Parrish, of Bradenton, sold their home at 4720 Palm Aire Circle to HPA US1 LLC for $292,500. Built in 1977, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,755 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $180,000 in 2013.

TARA

Elizabeth Shea sold her home at 7511 Birds Eye Terrace to William and Susan Andrus, of Bradenton, for $292,500. Built in 2005, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,811 square feet of living area.

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

RIGHT TO YOUR INBOX Daily Headlines Today’s top Stories

A daily dose of up-to-the-minute news from Sarasota, Longboat Key, Siesta Key and East County.

THE

DAILY

A+E

BRIEF

Your Guide to Sarasota’s Arts and Entertaimeant

A weekly digest of the most exciting upcoming events and the latest on Sarasota’s arts world.

The latest business news and information from the Business Observer.

NEWSLETTERS

ICYMI In Case You Missed it

A rundown of the week’s top stories from Southwest Florida.

and get more of the Observer delivered to your inbox.

Real Estate News Sponsored by Roger Pettingell Promotions & Deals

Don’t miss out on special promotions, deals and events from Observer partners.

SIGN UP TODAY!

Stay informed with the latest news round-up on commercial and residential construction, acquisitions leasing developments, and the developers or brokers making news.

YOUROBSERVER.COM/EMAIL-SIGNUP

Personalize your news with daily and weekly newsletters from the Observer.

Get highlights, summaries and updates on the stories that matter to you.

296851-1

296106-1

MOST INSURANCE ACCEPTED

SCHEDULE TODAY!

Anthony and Anne Limon, of Sarasota, sold their home at 4638 Woodbrook Drive to Arrey and Comforty Takang, of Sarasota, for $319,000. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,932 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $310,000 in 2016.

Ramkissoon and Veronica Mahdoo sold their home at 4839 Woodbrook Drive to Mary Anne and Marjorie Miele, of Sarasota, for $284,000. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,744 square feet of living area. It sold for $211,800 in 2013.

1970 Main Street Sarasota, FL 34236 941 / 366 - 3468

296154-1

12B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

THURSDAY, JAN. 31 High: 68 Low: 54 Chance of rain: 40%

FRIDAY, FEB. 1 High: 75 Low: 57 Chance of rain: 20%

SATURDAY, FEB. 2 High: 77 Low: 61 Chance of rain: 20%

Cynthia Cuevas photographed this Muscovy duck with ducklings near State Road 64 in Manatee County. Cuevas says the mother duck has taken care of her four chicks as well as five blackbellied whistler ducklings since they hatched.

Please visit YourObserver.com/weather to submit your weather- or nature-related photo. In addition to your caption information, please include your choice from our list of nonprofit groups. These votes will help determine which nonprofit group will receive the grand prize — a $2,500 flooring makeover from Manasota Flooring. The submission period for this contest ends Jan. 31, 2019.

ONLINE

SUNDAY, FEB. 3 High: 79 Low: 62 Chance of rain: 20%

SUNRISE / SUNSET

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, Jan. 31

7:17a

6:10p

Friday, Feb. 1

7:17a

6:11p

Saturday, Feb. 2

7:16a

6:11p

Sunday, Feb. 3

7:16a

6:12p

Monday, Feb. 4

7:15a

6:13p

Tuesday, Feb. 5

7:14a

6:14p

Wednesday, Feb. 6

7:14a

6:15p

MOON PHASES

Feb. 4 New

Feb. 12 First

Feb. 19 Full

Feb. 26 Last

RAINFALL Monday, Jan. 21

0.0

Tuesday, Jan. 22

0.0

Wednesday, Jan. 23

0.0 0.57

Thursday, Jan. 24

0.0

Friday, Jan. 25 Saturday, Jan. 26

0.0 1.54

Sunday, Jan. 27

Submit your photos at YourObserver.com/weather

WEATHER

FORECAST

13B

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

|

YEAR TO DATE:

MONTH TO DATE:

2019 2.74 in.

2019 2.74 in.

2018

2018

1.16 in.

1.16 in.

A REFLECTION OF NATURE’S BEAUTY 295070-1

941.355.8437 | Bradenton

941.748.4679 | Venice

941.493.7441 | manasotaonline.com

MIXING by Will Nediger CROSSWORD SOUND Edited by David Steinberg

©2019 Universal Uclick

ACROSS

1 Pet protection org.

6 Reeds’ environment 11“ASAP!” 15 High-five sound 19 Professorial jacket material 20 Nebraska’s largest city 21 Upside-down U shape 22 Vegas ball game 23 Welsh singer whose name becomes 70-Down if you rearrange the syllables 25 Weakening processes 27 Web image descriptor whose first word is a PC key

28 Baby buggy in Bath 30 Hunting garb, for short 31 Some undergrad degrees 32 Get misty-eyed 33 “The Talk” star whose name becomes 72-Across if you rearrange the syllables 36 Pizarro’s treasure 38 Lesser of two ___ 39 Important period 40 Startup’s NASDAQ goal, often 42 Moonfish or sunfish 45 “Many years ___ ...”

46 Bamboo devourers 49 Started playing for money

53 Heists 56 “Dios ___!”

57 Maryland bird 58 Happen to 59 Terra firma 61 Veto trendy grain charge?

63 Lunchroom, slangily 64 Sculpture and others 65 Producer of college rankings, informally 66 Seacrest, to Ripa 68 $100 per hour, say 71 “___ Kapital” 72 “Believe” singer, if she were from the Emerald City?

KITCHEN | CABINETRY OUTDOOR PAVERS

44 “Baywatch” star David’s nickname, with “the” 46 Necessarily, quaintly 47 “It ___ over till the fat lady sings” 48 Rolls out a lawn 50 Culinary school hats 51+52 Dancer, for one 54 Sweetie, slangily 55 State known for taters 58 Deferential greetings 60 Running a bit behind 62 Zeroes in on 63 Inner ears?

66 Colgate competitor 67 Unexpected problem 68 The Mounties, for short 69 Solo for Maria Callas 70 Athlete who must really jump to dunk?

72 Pacific salmon 73 Layer on a farm?

DOWN 74 Thus 1 Up, in baseball 75 She played Pam Fields on 2 Really muscular, slangily 3 A cappella group with three “Pretty Little Liars” 76 Doing the job Grammys 77 Author ___ Neale Hurston 4 Middle, in Manitoba 79 Infomercial subject 5 French goodbyes 80 Sinful anger 6 Applesauce eponym 84 They seek hides 7 Tan who wrote “The Joy 85 “Skip to My ___” Luck Club” 87 Helpful webpage initials 8 “___ Breaks the Internet” 90 Texter’s word of gratitude (2018 film) 93 Kitschy garden ornaments 9 He-Man’s twin sister 94 Modify a computer 10 Capital of Zimbabwe program 11 Just pathetic 96 Wound mark 12 French flag, e.g.

13 Compact Mercedes-Benz 97 Defeat in a rout 98 Bring about 14 Hitchhiker’s digit 99 Israeli port with a name15 Do slaloms, say sake orange 16 “DiCaprio, Pitt, deface 100 Eye-shaped openings something!”

101 “Very nice!”

17 Former U.N. head Kofi 102 Having a handle?

18 Sheriff’s squad 103 Really ticked off 24 Event with booths 105 Really tick off 26 Simple to a fault 106 Eye afflictions 29 Not fixed 110 Hipster beers, briefly 33 Soak (up) 112 Install, as bricks 34 Bruce or Farage 35 Caterer’s coffee container 113 2016 Olympics host 115 Kylo ___ (“Star Wars” 37 Aussie animal villain) 40 Triumphant cry 41 Prefix with scope or meter 43 Geometry calculations 104 Sounds from chicks 107 Often-torn body part, for short 108 Clip’s partner 109 Dodge Aries, e.g.

110 Protective wall on a castle 111 9-to-5 worker 114 WWII general whose name becomes 16-Down if you rearrange the syllables 116 Circus insect 117 Russell of “The Americans” 118 Scare off 119 “Widows” director McQueen 120 Like a good souffle 121 Canadian gas station 122 Perfect places 123 Tubes that may have kinks

78 Fridge drawer 80 “___ the beef?”

81 Dealer’s workplace 82 Opposite of max.

83 Fixes, as a tennis racket 85 Lower shaving target 86 Treat, at a restaurant 88 Had a campaign 89 Apt name for an Uber driver?

91 K-12 grp.

92 Naughty 93 Cousin of a croc 95 Coach’s “Hurry up!”

99 “Her” actor whose name becomes 61-Across if you rearrange the syllables

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.

“N’K T DTJ KGXSED, XV AZSJ T DTJ UVSX XVKSRZNJH RZTR KNHZR PS XRYTJHS, N LJUSYXRTJU NR.” –PSJNWNV USE RVYV “JH BVH BFF BCXABFE UL MTXE RFBCHM... BCW CUCTZABC BCXABFE HDRHVXHCNH RBXC EHCEBMXUCE YZEM FXPH JH WU.” –YUBGZXC RTUHCXD Puzzle Two Clue: L equals F

Sarasota

STOP BY AND SEE OUR LARGE SELECTION OF NATURAL STONE TILE!

Puzzle One Clue: G equals Y

STONE

©2019 NEA, Inc.

SUDOKU

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

©2019 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

1-31-19

CLASSIFIEDS

Thursday, January 31, 2019

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 town codes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property.

Items Under $200 For Sale ADVERTISE YOUR MERCHANDISE with the total value of all items $200 or less in this section for FREE! Limit 1 ad per month,15 words or less. Price must be included next to each item. No commercial advertising.

Ad runs 2 consecutive weeks in 1 Observer.

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 DIGITAL SCALE: New, boxed, white, includes lithium battery. Split mat design. $25. Call (941)224-1253.

DOGGIE STEPS: very durable, excellent condition, 4 steps, $45. 941-879-8881, phone calls only, no text.

GENERAC 1200W Inverter/Generator. New, still in box, $200.941-504-7214.

GLASS TOP for console table 56x16". Beveled, excellent condition. (top only) $79. 941-309-7439.

Items Under $200 For Sale

Investor Wanted

HURRICANE WINDOW Shutters, 14 GE-Lexan polycarbonate shutters, assorted sizes, pre-drilled for installation, $200. 941-351-4069.

CAPITAL WANTED

SLING PATIO Chairs: 4 black chairs, rust free aluminum, good condition. $100 (941) 966-0618.

ADVERTISE

LOCALLY

18% RETURN GUARANTEED Secured By Vehicle Titles Investment $25,000-$250,000 Established 1981 ruggerienterprises.com Call 941-350-8210

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

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

Call 955-4888

WICKER LOUNGE: beautiful blue and white cushions, wicker desk and hardback chair, $200 for both. 941-746-4509.

Furnishings ESTATE SALE: Country Club/ Lakewood Ranch Various high end bedroom and living room pieces.

Beautiful large framed art. Saturday February 2, 2019, 8am-noon. Call for appt. (303) 589-4497.

Garage/Moving/Estate Sales CRAFT & Rummage Sale: Feb. 2, 8a.m.-1p.m., 6633 53rd Ave. E. 34203. Pleasant Lake Resort.

Things To Do LOVEBABY WELLNESS Passionate about prevention of childhood chronic illness & developmental delays. Learn more at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/love-my-tummytime-baby-development-classregistration50531447921

Condos For Sale CONDO: AT HARBORAGE on Braden River: 2 miles west of I-75 on SR70, 2005, 2BR/2BA, down, all appliances, water view, tile, granite, new A/C, garage, community pool, trail, kayak, marina, beautiful small quiet gated community. $190,000.

712-334-0304.

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

Health Matters

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

BRAZILIAN CLEANING Service by Maria.

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

Coming Thursday, Feb. 21

Local Ads at Your Fingertips

Sarasota/Manatee County adults are active participants in their health care journey

LV9431

INFO & RATES: 941-955-4888 • Fax: 941-362-4808 • EMAIL: classified@yourobserver.com • ONLINE: classifieds.yourobserver.com HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8:30am-4pm • DEADLINES: Classifieds - Monday at Noon • Service Directory - Friday at 3pm • PAYMENT: Cash, Check or Credit Card

Pet Services ANIMAL LOVER with over 50 years experience will give complete care to your horses, dogs and other pets when you are away from home.

Excellent references available. Call Sherrie’s Horse and Pet Sitting Service, 941-538-2965, E-mail: sziecina@mailmt.com PROFESSIONAL CAT SITTING: Certified Veterinary Technician serving all of Lakewood Ranch.

20+ Years experience.

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

SELL IT! 941-955-4888 or classifieds.yourobserver.com

Pools POOL SERVICE - FALL SPECIAL FROM $65/MO. New customers only. Reliable, affordable weekly pool service by certified owner. Hundreds of satisfied customers, many testimonials. SAVE MONEY WITH THIS AD. Call now, Blissful Pools, 941-705-0400.

Professional Services BOOKKEEPING FOR SMALL BUSINESSES using Quickbooks, from my home. 20+ Years experience.

Call 941-746-7454.

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “I’m a fan myself, so when a fan does something that might be strange, I understand it.”

– Benicio del Toro Puzzle Two Solution: “We are all animals of this planet... and nonhuman animals experience pain sensations just like we do.”

– Joaquin Phoenix

This week’s Sudoku answers

classifieds.yourobserver.com

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

Excellent references. 941-773-6895.

• 1 in 3 area adults take action after seeing health care advertising.

- Ads are the most influential driving research, opening up a discussion with doctor or requesting a prescription.

MRS. MAIDS. Detailed & dependable cleaning and HOUSE CHECK SERVICES for your residence. Bonded/ Insured. For free estimates, call 941-400-3175.

• 78% of Sarasota/Manatee adults are actively engaged with maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Computer Services

• 55% of Sarasota/Manatee adults use newspapers and magazines as sources of health-related information.

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

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

• $1.68 Billion is spent annually on health care services in Sarasota/Manatee counties.

Home Services

Reach more than 266,974 Observer readers and online users with your ad!

©2019 NEA, Inc.

This week’s Crossword answers

SRQ HOMEWATCH LLC Home monitoring and support services for seasonal homeowners.

(941) 524-7563 www.srqhomewatch.com

Editorial Content:

Painting/Wallpapering

How to reach daily Fitbit Nirvana. We look at why 10,000 steps a day is considered the holy grail of health, as well as what people have learned who have done this challenge, and what other things you might need to know about it.

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.

Space deadline: Monday, Feb. 4

Call your account executive today!

295532-1

(941) 366-3468 // advertise@yourobserver.com Source: ** Verified Audit Circulation ending 3/31/17: Observer, Google Analytics, 30 days avg. active users 2018.

PAINTING AND DESIGN STUDIO Custom painting, interior design, faux finishes, murals, staging. In business 30 years.

No job too small. References.

Call Cheryl, 941-587-1174

Explore the

2019

CLASSIFIEDS for great deals.

Visit classifieds.yourobserver.com

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

15B

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

KITCHEN/BATH REMODELING

KEEP YOUR INDEPENDENCE!

POOLS

Justin’s Pool Service

LIFETIME GUARANTEE Installed Within in 24-Hours COUPON REQUIRED

Free Estimates – Same Day Service Over 17 Years Experience

941-730-7303

COMPLETE 2 Moen Stainless Steel Anti Slip INSTALLATION Includes Consealed Screw Grab Bars (16” & 24”) PACKAGE Additional Grab Bars Needed, Same type in bathroom $100 each Drilling charges may apply for marble, granite or porcelain.

“Specializing in 6” Seamless Gutters”

POWER WASHING

235

$

941.650.9790 YoderAluminum.com

941-966-0333

CABINET MAKING

INC.

Like Us on Facebook

GLENN KROECKER

Palmetto

SAFE ROOF CLEANING

954-1878

(cell) 780-3346 Licensed & Insured

298020

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

BIODEGRADABLE PRODUCTS

SHOWER & BATH MAKEOVERS

www.themastercabinetmaker.com

Pressure Cleaning & Soft Washing Residential and Commercial

Cleaned - Regrouted - Caulked - Sealed

Call John 941.377.2940

America

Free Estimates • Sarasota Resident Since 1974

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

941-737-4483

www.showerandbathsarasota.com

All Work Done On Premises Next Day Service

Bisson Roofing Inc. Specializing in Reroofs and Repairs FREE Estimates • 30 Years Experience

291493

941.755.9119 DOORS

941 - 748 - 7400 Financing Available • RC0067420 • Lic. & Ins.

297182

Sliding Glass Door Repair

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

David McCarthy Moving

Kenneth Fuhlman Inc. Building & Roofing Contractor

...will move anything from a couch to a household • • • •

292759

941-704-4278

dmccarthymoving@gmail.com

www.bissonroofing.com

Owner Supervises Every Job

MOVERS

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

Local And Long Distance Movers Residential Moves Commercial Moves Pack, Crate & Wrap

www.davidmccarthymoving.com formation about

941-626-3194

Licensed & Insured CCC - 058059 CBC - 1253936

297177

Call for In THIS SPACE COULD BE the Service Directory

SCREENING

PAINTING 296021

LV10365

HANDYMAN

297850

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

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

LAKEWOOD RANCH PAINTING

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

Agner’s Handyman Specializing in Closets & Garage Storage • Kitchen Pantry •Attic Access Ladders

Ask a Neighbor!

941-726-7077

296625

955-4888

941-345-5264

a FREE estimate!

specialty screens / screw replacement / paint

297180

• Walk-in Closets • Reach-in Closets

With this ad

ROOFING

Creekwood Crossing Plaza SR70 and off I75 | Bradenton, FL, 34203

YOURS!

www.PantherHydroCleaning.com

10% SAVINGS

LAWN CARE

297184

CLEANING

DRY CLEAN

297796

THE GRAB BAR GUY

CABINET MAKER

941-723-0278

www.drgrabbars.com

297851

The Master

•

297181

Licensed • Bonded • Insured • Certified Residential & Commercial

297179

292787

Owner / Operator Insured

297849

Dustin Yoder

297471

ALUMINUM

LV9459

SERVICE DIRECTORY

941.587.8093

www.agnershandyman.wix.com/handyman

UNIQUE PAINTING & PRESSURE WASHING SERVICES

Doors and more!

Manufacture and workmanship Warranties

Complete Interior & Exterior Painting

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

(941) 345-5264

with Service Directory

PET SERVICES

Country Canine Makeovers Dog grooMing

a neighborly company

See everything Mr. Handyman® can do around your home at

HOME SERVICES

AMEROVENT

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

OUT THERE!

do around at Take a simple testcan to see if your your vent home is clogged.

Unhook your dryer vent & compare drying time.

MrHandyman.com

Commercial

296628

LV10370

Are You Having Dryer Difficulties?

• Dryer hot but clothes still wet after (1) drying cycle? ® • Dryer gets hot the touch or doesn’t heat up at all?

See everything Mr.to Handyman

See everything Mr. Handyman®

d Form Serving Longboat Key Since 2005 ows

UP TO

GET YOUR NAME

www.amerovent.net

941-705-5468

Cindy Wells 941-928-2168

Res./Com. ndow & Pressure Clea Lic./Ins. et Wi nin s n wn as Sunrise Win g Su erly kno

MrHandyman.com

DRYER VENT CLEANING SPECIALISTS

Residential

Call for appointment

WINDOWS

Advertise your business in The Observer Service Directory Call 941-955-4888 to advertise

120

WINDOWS $ 25STANDARD

INCLUDING SCREENS, TRACKS, MIRRORS & FANS

SPECIAL $500 senior citizen discount.

www.sunsetwindowcleaningsrq.com

292766

See everything Mr. Handyman® can do around your home at MrHandyman.com

297858

Call Mr. Handyman 941.777.3344

296629

21

Call today to reserve your space, 955-4888

LV10306

GROW YOUR BUSINESS

292789

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

Purified water window cleaning available!!

Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES | 941- 284 - 5880

16B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2019

UPGRADE YOUR VIEW $35K* SAVINGS

*

Don’t miss out on Waterfront at Main Street’s NEW $35K Discount on Move-In Ready Homes MODE NOW L or $35K Design Credit on All Other Homes, OPEN now through March 31, 2019.

See sales associate for details.

New condominium homes starting from the $400,000s.

On-site amenities include pool, spa, clubhouse, outdoor entertainment areas including fire pit, and fitness center.

For More Information, please contact: Lee Trompke, Homes by Towne® Sales Associate 10510 Boardwalk Loop, Unit 204 | Lakewood Ranch, FL O: 941-907-3799 | C: 941-737-8538

www.homesbytowne.com WF_ECO_$35kDiscount_10.375x16_0119_LS-1.indd 1

295034-1

ltrompke@homesbytowne.com

1/18/2019 2:11:02 PM