East County Observer 2.29.24

EAST COUNTY

SEASON SPRING 2024

Observer

T H E O B S E R V E R ’S G

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Lakewood Ranch’s weekly newspaper since 1998

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VOLUME 25, NO. 35

YOUR TOWN

County unveils $66M Lorraine Road project Some local residents say they will lose the feel of living on a country road. SEE PAGE 3A

PRICE WORTH PAYING Liz Ramos

Just showing off on Main Street East County’s Chuck Roskovich (above) loved having the opportunity to show off his special edition 2010 Dodge Viper ACR during the Exotic Car Show on Main Street at Lakewood Ranch on Feb. 24.

Roskovich said the car’s snake-skin green color, V10 8.4-liter engine, aerodynamic features and the fact it’s an American Club Racer car make it a special edition.

He enjoyed seeing people’s reaction to the car, of which only 30 were made.

“Cars are great, but car people are fantastic,” said Roskovich, who participated in the Exotic Car Show for the first time. “No matter what type of car you have — and there are some beautiful cars here today — we all have something in common. Everyone enjoys cars.”

Golf Hall-of-Famer Nick Price expects Myakka to become a golf destination when Soleta opens late in 2024. SEE PAGE 8A

Jay Heater

Nick Price might not operate heavy equipment while he designs the Soleta Golf Club course, but he doesn’t mind getting his hands dirty.

Courtesy image

Donte’s Den makes loving dogs fashionable Dogs are more than accessories at Donte’s Den. They’re the stars. On Feb. 24, about two dozen four-legged fashionistas strutted their stuff for the Top Dog fashion show fundraiser.

About 250 people attended the annual event, which was held at Donte’s facility in Myakka City.

“We only exist on the generous donations of our clients,” said founder Marsha Panuce (above). ”The money will go to the dogs and the new rehabilitation park that we’re building.”

The park is still in the design phase but will feature heated underground treadmills and equipment to strengthen the dogs’ joints and limbs.

“When you have senior dogs, they get the same problems we do,” Panuce said.

A+E

Willis Smith exec takes over as LWRBA chair A killer musical: ‘Ruby’ INSIDE

David Otterness says he will put new LWRBA vision and mission statements into action.

SEE PAGE 6A Jay Heater

Willis Smith Construction’s Dave Otterness says wife Jennifer’s support allows him to give back to the community through the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance.

2A

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

A canine ‘party in the park’ Southeastern Guide Dogs hosts annual Suncoast Walk-a-thon at Nathan Benderson Park.

IF YOU GO

LIZ RAMOS

SOUTHEASTERN GUIDE DOGS SUNCOAST WALK-ATHON When: 9 a.m. March 2 Where: Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota Cost: Free Details: Walk a 3K during a family friendly and dog-friendly walk-a-thon that also features live music, food, vendor and sponsor booths, a raffle and more.

More information: GuideDogs. org/Get-Involved/Volunteer/ WalkAThon/

SENIOR EDITOR

T

he Concession’s Alex Jeanroy led her temporary dog, Marcel, around East Manatee Fire Rescue Station 1.

She gave Marcel time to interact with firefighter Diana Zacher so the dog could learn not to be frightened of a firefighter in full gear.

Jeanroy, the club leader for Lakewood Ranch Puppy Raisers, went to the fire station along with other puppy raisers for Southeastern Guide Dogs. All the dogs explored the firetrucks and gear.

The trip to the fire station was one of the group’s “exposures” for the month that help prepare the puppies to become guide dogs or service dogs for Southeastern Guide Dogs.

In their training, Jeanroy said the puppies are taken to Main Street at Lakewood Ranch, to movie theaters, and to libraries, among other public places to get accustomed to those places. Those trips also help the puppies become familiar with various modes of transportation.

One important exposure for the dogs in March will be the Southeastern Guide Dogs’ Suncoast Walk-AThon on March 2 at Nathan Benderson Park.

Jennifer Bryan, the director of Philanthropy for Southeastern Guide Dogs, said the Suncoast walk-athon is the nonprofit’s biggest fundraiser of the year. The Suncoast walk-a-thon is one of five in Florida with the others taking place in St.

Courtesy image

The Suncoast Walk-A-Thon has become Southeastern Guide Dogs’ biggest walk-a-thon that also raises the most amount for the nonprofit.

Petersburg, Tampa, Gainesville and Orlando.

Collectively, Bryan said the walka-thons raise more than $1 million per year.

The Suncoast walk-a-thon at Nathan Benderson Park has become the biggest event out of the five walks in terms of participants and money raised, Bryan said, which wasn’t always the case.

She said the growth in the event could be a result of the nonprofit’s campus being located in Palmetto so more people are aware of it, along with its mission.

The money raised from the walka-thons goes toward supporting the nonprofit’s mission and programs including its genetics reproduction program, breeding, puppy training and expenses for those receiving the dogs to remain on campus while they are trained how to handle their new service or guide dog.

“Every penny raised through these events is going straight toward the

“People love their dogs, and when you bring your dog to an event, it just adds another level of happiness.”

— Jennifer Bryan

Liz Ramos

Firefighter Diana Zacher pets Summer, a 7-month-old puppy being trained through Southeastern Guide Dogs.

mission and it changes lives,” Bryan said.

Bryan said it costs thousands of dollars to support and train each dog before they are given to someone who needs it at no cost.

There also is a team that follows

up with the beneficiary and the dog to ensure they’re successful together after the dog has graduated from Southeastern Guide Dogs’ programs.

Bryan said everyone is encouraged to bring their furry friends to the walk-a-thon, and everyone who comes to the event will receive a Southeastern Guide Dogs’ bandana.

“It is a party in the park,” she said.

“People love their dogs, and when you bring your dog to an event, it just adds another level of happiness, especially seeing all the different breeds and shapes and sizes of the dogs.”

The walk-a-thon also will be an opportunity for people to learn about becoming a puppy raiser, puppy sitter or puppy starter.

Jeanroy said it takes a village to

raise the puppies to ensure they are ready to serve someone who is visually impaired or a veteran with posttraumatic stress disorder.

Puppy-raisers care for the puppies when they’re 8 to 12 weeks old for 12-16 months. Sitters are available to take care of the puppies If the puppy-raisers need to go on vacation or take a break. Puppy starters care for puppies for a few months before they are matched with a puppy-raiser to begin training.

The nonprofit always could use more puppy raisers, puppy sitters and puppy starters, Jeanroy said.

Jeanroy said she enjoys watching not only the puppies’ progress in their training but she likes seeing the puppy raisers progress as well. She said in the Lakewood Ranch group of puppy raisers, there are four who are new to the job.

Jeanroy said the puppy raisers go from believing they will struggle to mastering the craft.

She watched with pride as the puppy raisers led their dogs around the fire station and saw the puppies listening to every command and adjusting to the new environment.

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YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

3A

Lorraine Road residents concerned about ‘improvements’

In some cases, county will have to use eminent domain to secure property for the project.

LESLEY DWYER STAFF WRITER

C

arolyn Gilbert, who is 45, was born and raised in Manatee County. She’s lived on two

acres off Lorraine Road for 33 years.

When her parents decided to move from Samoset to the country in 1991, the then12-year-old thought they were crazy. She said it turned out to be a huge blessing.

“Lorraine Road was agriculture the majorCourtesy image

ity of my life but is now 100% residential,” Gilbert said.

“Change can be a good thing, but we no longer live in the country.”

Gilbert said she and her neighbors aren’t looking forward to the road improvements that Manatee County has planned to accommodate the area’s growth.

The $66 million improvement project will widen the 2.83-mile segment of Lorraine Road between 59th Avenue East and State Road 64 from two lanes to four. The widening includes a raised median, sidewalks in each direction and seven-foot buffered bike lanes.

The county unveiled the plan at a public information meeting on Feb. 22 at the Florida Department of Transportation Manatee Operations Center on S.R. 64.

Ogden Clark, the strategic affairs manager for Manatee County’s Public Works department, said the county’s two main goals are to improve the flow of traffic and to make the road safer. Clark has received numerous complaints from residents that there is no lighting on Lorraine Road.

A traffic study showed that out of 49 reported crashes between 2016 and 2020 on that segment of the road, the one fatal crash (June 2018) involved a 34-year-old male bicyclist who was riding at night.

The project will upgrade the lighting and drainage along the corridor, as well as widen the road, but Clark said some homeowners worry about losing their rural setting.

LORRAINE ROAD IMPROVEMENT PROJECT Improvements to Lorraine Road between 59th Avenue East and State Road 64 include two additional car lanes, a raised median, a 10-foot multiuse path on the west side, a five-foot sidewalk on the east side and seven-foot bike lanes on both sides.

Cost: $66 million Estimated design completion: May 2024 Estimated start of construction: January 2025 Estimated end of construction: May 2027 Number of landowners affected: 87

“What I can tell people is that when buying homes, always look for that kind of information,” Clark said of the improvements. “It’s important to know about construction and infrastructure that’s coming.”

you enough money that you can get the right people to come do it. It’d be nice if they said, ‘Here’s a check, and here’s a contractor.’”

While he didn’t recommend a contractor, Commissioner Ray Turner said the county does pay fair market value for land acquisitions.

The county needs to acquire about 13 acres on each side of the road.

Most of the properties fall under the category of “partial takes.” Out of the 87 owners due to be impacted, 29 are business owners.

There are also seven “total takes” on the list of acquisitions. Four are vacant lots, and the other three are single-family homes. Clark said the number of acquisitions is on par for what’s been needed in the past for similar projects.

Several Lorraine Road residents were concerned they hadn’t received a clear answer from the county as to how much of their land will be impacted. Gilbert was told the county would need 15 feet from the edge of the road. One person in that group, Diana Ganey, said she heard it would be 70 feet.

Part of the issue is that the design is still only 80% complete, but one of

LANDSCAPING ISSUES

Sean Brimberry could’ve used Clark’s advice last year. He bought his home, which sits on 13 acres off Lorraine Road, in July.

Brimberry likes the idea of having sidewalks on a road that was void of them, and said if he could go back, he’d buy the property again. However, had he known what he was about to lose, he would’ve reduced his purchase offer and set his newly built horse facility farther back from the road.

Once the project is complete, the extensive landscaping and 100-yearold oak trees that provide a buffer for Brimberry’s horses and privacy for his home will be gone, and replacing the landscaping won’t be as simple as pulling out a row of hedges and planting a new one.

“I’ve got electrical and irrigation running all through there,” Brimberry said. “You just hope they give

Lesley Dwyer

Sean Brimberry has extensive landscaping at the front of his property that will be removed by the county to widen Lorraine Road.

the project managers, Anthony Russo, said pretty much every owner will lose between five and 10 feet along the front of their property.

“We wanted to have a meeting a year ago, but we have lots of development going on around here,” Clark said. “Each time that happens, it changes the flood modeling, so we had to make adjustments each time.”

Construction is expected to begin in January 2025, but that date depends on the acquisition process running smoothly. Several neighbors have been contacted by attorneys, and if they don’t like the county’s offers and the property goes to eminent domain, they have the option to take the matter to court.

Once started, Clark said construction should take about two years.

Ganey said a lawyer told her he can’t save her property because it falls under eminent domain, which gives the government the power to acquire private property for the benefit of the general public, but he could help her negotiate a better price.

Turner said land acquisitions are all “part of a formula,” and if the government is taking, it’s not going to be a small number.

Yet a major concern for residents is that if they wanted to move because of the project, they can’t replace what they have somewhere else in Manatee County.

“I’m getting ready to retire,” Ganey said. “If we end up selling and moving somewhere else, can I travel as much? No. Can I afford to do what I want to do? No.” NO MORE LEFT TURNS

Among current safety concerns with this particular road segment is its lack of a shoulder, but residents are happy they can still turn left onto Lorraine Road. The improvements will require motorists who want to turn left, to make a right (because of the raised median) and then look for an intersection to make a U-turn.

“My kids are just learning to drive, and now they’re going to have to make U-turns all the time,” Ray Ganey said. “Is that really safe?”

Clark said the overall feeling he got from residents during the public meeting was that they understood the road needed to be updated, but being unable to make left-hand turns out of their driveways, and therefore forced to make a U-turn, was the No. 1 complaint. One resident asked if roundabouts were an option.

“I’ll bring it up to the engineers just to see,” Clark said. “There are two intersection improvements planned as part of the project on Lorraine Road, at Rangeland and at 44th, there will be added turn lanes because of the widening.”

Clark added that FDOT is planning a roundabout at S.R. 64 and Lorraine Road, but a date hasn’t been set to start construction.

This is a rendering of Manatee County’s proposed changes to Lorraine Road between 59th Avenue East and State Road 64.

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

County connections Neighborhood Summit is hosted

by Manatee County at the Lakewood Ranch Library.

MAKE A CONNECTION

If you couldn’t attend the Neighborhood Summit, the following links will lead to more information on some of the programs that were covered.

LESLEY DWYER STAFF WRITER

Neighborhood grants and the Citizens Academy: MyManatee. org/Departments/Neighborhood_ Services/Neighborhood_Connections NexTrex Recycling Challenge Program: NexTrex.com Community gardens: Sfyl.Ifas.

UFL.edu/Manatee/Lawn-Garden/ Community-School-Gardens The Friendly City Foundation: FriendlyCity.Foundation

T

here’s a vacant lot in Arlene Merriman’s neighborhood.

Merriman is the chairperson of the Whisper Bend Homeowners Association’s Community Improvement Committee.

She attended the Manatee County Neighborhood Summit to see if there was a grant that could help the HOA turn the vacant lot into something the community, which is off Linger Lodge Road, can enjoy. Merriman also wanted to meet the county’s staff members in person.

“I want to put a name to a face,” she said. “I like that personal connection.”

The summit was held at the Lakewood Ranch Library on Feb. 23 to put residents and staff from different departments in one room together to provide easy access for residents.

“Transparency is a challenge because if we’re not communicating well, it feels like we’re hiding things,” Commissioner Ray Turner told residents. “(The summit) is a way to create better transparency for constituents. We don’t want you guys to feel like you don’t know what’s going on.”

The three-hour event began with a half-hour of networking, followed by a series of presentations from county staff members and their partners.

Event partners included the Friendly City Foundation, which helps cultivate business opportunities, and the UF IFAS Extension, which offers a community garden program.

Central Park resident Deb Pierce said she enjoyed learning about the community gardens and plans for transportation but was hoping the summit would have been a more interactive forum.

A few minutes were allotted for questions after each presentation, and Turner kept to his word and hung

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around after to speak with residents about any concerns they had.

Only Pierce approached him.

She wanted to know if he supports Project 2025, a conservative agenda spearheaded by the Heritage Foundation of Washington, D.C., to make widespread changes to federal policies that would align with the political right.

“He wasn’t familiar with it,” Pierce said. “But he also said he has a lot of big fish to fry here in the county, and I understand that.”

The newly revamped Citizens Academy is one fish that’s already been fried and was presented to residents. It’s a long-term, projectbased program that partners county staff members with community leaders to solve community issues.

The program is taught in three sessions and focuses on action items and goals as they relate to a specific project. Residents submit their idea for a project to be considered for the class.

The group-based learning environment allows different communities to see the work others are doing and to brainstorm ideas together.

The Citizens Academy is a Neighborhood Connections programs.

Neighborhood Connections manages community grants.

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YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

their new construction projects have on roads, parks, libraries and emergency services. The county’s Land Development Code requires an updated study of the fees every five years.

The issue came before the board in April and November of 2023, and again this month at the land use meeting on Feb. 22.

In a vote of 6-1, with Commissioner James Satcher absent, the board started the process of raising impact fees by 50% over the next four years, which is the maximum increase allowed by the state. The following table offers four examples of what builders will pay over the next four years to build new homes.

While the board voted in favor of collecting 100% of the impact fee schedule in November, the schedule was based on a study conducted in 2015 that used data from 2013 and 2014. Since 2017, the county has only been collecting 90%.

In November 2023, Commissioner George Kruse said that based on the old study, the county was only collecting 40 cents on the dollar for what current growth costs.

The other commissioners were hesitant to use the latest study submitted by a Tampa firm, Benesch, in April 2023, after the Manatee-Sarasota Building Industry Association sent a critique of the study.

There were 11 points within the critique that Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge said “essentially threatened litigation,” so commissioners elected to hold off on moving forward with the new study until the staff came back with more information.

“We can’t put the county in a situation where it gets sued,” Commissioner Ray Turner said of the delay.

“This will impact developers, but it’s defensible now.”

The building association’s review claimed that the Benesch study was flawed and overstated impact fees for transportation and parks and recreation. It also disputes the charges for fee administration.

Benesch countered every point, and Director of Development Services Nicole Knapp told commissioners that the methodology Benesch used is the most commonly used methodology in the state.

Lesley Dwyer

Cedar Mill is under construction off Lorraine Road. Future construction projects will face increased impact fees in Manatee County.

Impact fees on the rise The move was delayed after the ManateeSarasota Building Industry Association disputed the most recent study.

LESLEY DWYER

Here are four examples of what builders will pay in impact fees on various sized homes over the next four years, with the increase starting in Year 1.

State law only allows impact fees to rise a maximum of 12.5% a year.

Size home Single family detached

STAFF WRITER

A

IMPACTFUL INCREASES

Adopted Year 1 fee $8,528 $9,594

Year 2

Year 3

Year 4

$10,660 $11,726 $12,792

(751-1,000 square feet)

n issue that has landed on four different county administrators’ desks over the past four years has been decided — Manatee County impact fees are going up.

Impact fees are charged to developers to help pay for the impacts

Single family detached $12,542 (1,701 square feet or more) Multifamily $5,903

$14,110 $15,678

$17,246 $18,813

$6,641

$7,379

$8,117

$9,678

$10,753

$11,828 $12,904

$8,854

(751-1,000 square feet) Multifamily $8,603 (1,301 square feet or more)

5A

TIMELINE

Impact fee studies must be updated every five years to comply with the Manatee County’s Land Development Code.

2015 Updated impact fee study was adopted.

2016 Fee study was put into effect with a scheduled collection of 80%.

2017 Commissioners raised the collection to 90%.

2018 Commissioners voted to keep the collection at 90% 2020 An updated impact fee study was conducted but not implemented.

2021 Due to new impact fee legislation, the study was modified.

2022 Impact fees were not brought before the board for a vote nor was the study updated.

April 2023 An updated study was presented to the board, and staff was directed to memorialize the study in the Land Development Code.

November 2023 Commissioners voted to increase collection to 100% using the 2015 study.

February 2024 Commissioners voted to increase impact fees by 50% over the next four years using the 2023 study.

County Attorney William Clague said moving forward with the new study was more legally defensible than using a study from 2015.

Under the Florida Impact Fee Act, once impact fees are raised, they cannot be raised again for another four years.

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YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

No time to sit JAY HEATER MANAGING EDITOR

E

rik Hanson, the outgoing chair of the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance, said his one-year term involved a lot of planning for the future of the nonprofit.

So as he handed the customary giant gavel to the new chair, Willis Smith’s David Otterness, he said he was jealous of his successor in one aspect.

“David gets the joy of seeing it put into play,” Hanson told a sellout crowd at the Grove Feb. 23 in Lakewood Ranch.

Otterness wore a big smile as he agreed he will enjoy the fruits of a hard year of planning.

“As a board, we talked about ‘What do we want to be when we grow up?’”

Otterness said. “And we spent a lot of time putting together a strategic plan. We are going to be celebrating our 20th year, and as the business alliance has grown, so has the region.

(Schroeder-Manatee Ranch) has built out, and we need to be a bigger alliance and have a bigger seat at the particular tables. We will have a larger voice when it comes to advocacy.”

As Otterness spoke, the new vision and mission statements flashed on a big screen behind him.

The vision statement read, “To be the leading business organization, fostering a strong quality of life for business and residents of the Lakewood Ranch region.”

The mission statement read, “Support the success of our members through unparalleled access to business connections, resources, and advocacy.”

With 191 new members in 2023,

TAKE A CHAIR What: New chair for Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance Who: David Otterness of Willis Smith Construction David’s family: Wife Jennifer; daughters Alyssa (14) and Lauren (11) Lives: Mill Creek Hobbies: Hunting, visiting state parks, camping trips with his family Did you know: The LWRBA added 191 members in 2023 and now has 706 total members

and 706 members total, Otterness said he wants to take the growing strength of the alliance for a ride.

“We will have stronger representation at the state level,” he said, “That doesn’t mean we are going to be about supporting candidates. We always are going to stay in our lanes. But we will advocate for things that are business friendly.

My old man (the late John Otterness) always said, ‘If you are not involved in politics, politics will be involved with you.’”

Otterness faces a busy year. He is the Willis Smith Construction project executive for the $132 million Mote Science Education Aquarium that will be completed adjacent to Nathan Benderson Park by the end of the year.

He said the executives at Willis Smith promote community involvement and that makes it possible for him to help lead the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance.

“I have a strong internal support system,” he said of Willis Smith. “We have good team members. I can’t thank them enough. They always are in my corner.”

A table of Willis Smith Construction executives bought a table at the LWRBA event and held huge cutouts

Jay Heater

of Otterness’ face.

Also in attendance was Otterness’ wife, Jennifer. They have two daughters, 14-year-old Alyssa and 11-yearold Lauren. Otterness said his wife’s support was key in allowing him to give back to the community through the alliance.

He also said it will be easy to have success with such a talented LWRBA board.

“I try to learn from everybody else,” he said. “I ask what works and what doesn’t. We take a look at all our events on the calendar. You know, 99% of it comes down to communication.”

Hanson was asked if he gave Otterness any advice about being the board chair.

“I would tell him to trust your board members, because it is a great group,” Hanson said. “It is a great knowledge base. We have experts in every industry.”

During Hanson’s year as board chair, he said the nonprofit’s major growth has been inevitable.

“Every week it seems like Rex is adding another property,” he said

with a laugh.

The Rex he mentioned is Rex Jensen, the CEO and president of SMR. Otterness said he will get advice from his 24-member board and Hanson, but he said the rock of the nonprofit is Brittany Lamont, the CEO and president.

“She keeps me on track,” Otterness said. “We just talk about stuff.”

He said one of his main roles is to be a connection between the community and the alliance and to explain how the alliance can help businesses out.

He also will be “defining our policies and procedures. At the end of the day, that is important to the success of our organization.”

Otterness was asked what he would say in trying to convince a member of the business community to join the alliance.

“I would say ‘I can open you up to a network of 706 companies,’” he said.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

EAST COUNTY

An aerial shot shows the “bones” of the future Soleta Golf Club course in Myakka.

“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 Publisher and President / Emily Walsh, EWalsh@YourObserver.com Associate Publisher — East County Observer / Lori Ruth, LRuth@YourObserver.com Executive Editor and COO / Kat Wingert, KWingert@YourObserver.com

Courtesy photo

It’s moving day in Myakka Golf legend Nick Price hopes to mold a masterpiece at Soleta.

JAY HEATER MANAGING EDITOR

F

or much of his professional golf career, Hall-of-Famer Nick Price was a force on “moving day.”

“Moving day” was a term used to describe the third round of a fourround tournament, when the sport’s top athletes would raise their game a notch, moving themselves into contention for a run at the title in the final round.

Now 67, Price no longer plays competitive golf, but every day he spends in Myakka is, indeed, moving day.

Price is the chief architect for the Soleta Golf Club course, which is part of what developers aspire to make one of the nation’s most elite golf facilities, combining the 7,400yard course (from the tips) with David Ledbetter’s 30-acre practice facility. Developers David Turner and Charles Duff lead a group that also is planning 93 luxury homes with amenities.

The “moving day” part for Price these days has to do with dirt.

On an unusually windy, midFebruary day, Price was walking his layout, looking at possibilities to give the course “nuances” that will entertain any level of golfer after it opens late this year. His competitive spirit continues to burn brightly, which is reflected in him refusing to retreat to a makeshift construction office to get out of the heavy wind to do an interview. It was the kind of day when bandanas were needed so you don’t swallow the blowing dirt.

“This is a good day to talk,” Price said with a smile, noting that it’s hard to get actual work done with the wind whipping so hard.

ALL ABOUT THE BONES

Lacking any landscaping at this point, the course has a barren look, which makes it hard to imagine the eventual beauty which will be in place in just eight to 10 months. By that time, Price said more than 1 million cubic yards of dirt will have been moved. He is molding the land like a potter would mold the perfect vase.

Nick Price and his associate, Dean Bedwell, talk about the nuances of one of their greens.

Photos by Jay Heater

All along the course are huge piles of sand, dug from areas that eventually will be retention ponds/lakes.

The sand is just awaiting its assigned area. In fact, no dirt has been brought to the course from outside the 500acre Soleta parcel. It’s just being shifted around. But the look, right now, is bleak.

Price would disagree, though, saying it was quite beautiful to him that he could see the contour of the land, or the “bones” as he called it.

To understand his architect’s mind, consider that Price won The Open championship in 1994 at Turnberry in Scotland, where links golf is king.

“Golf is a game in the air, and on the ground,” Price said of his philosophy when designing a course.

“It should be about the ability to run the ball, and not be all about carry.

There should be a little mix. We’ve forgotten.”

With the Soleta ground barren, Price can get a good indication of whether a low iron shot that hits in front of a green is going to skip to the left or the right. He can picture slopes that can pull a shot into a hazard or a bunker.

Duff, who lives in Lakewood Ranch, is impressed by Price’s ability to picture in his mind what golfers of all levels will be facing as they play each hole. Golf legend Bobby Jones once said about Jack Nicklaus after the Golden Bear won the 1965 Masters, “Nicklaus played a game of which I am not familiar.”

While most people could say that about Price, who won 18 PGA Tour events, had 48 professional wins, and was ranked No. 1 in the world in 1994, he concentrates on being familiar with the game of the average Joe, who carries an 18 handicap. The talent in designing a golf course that will attract people from around the world is to make sure high handicap golfers will not be overwhelmed and can enjoy their day, while presenting significant challenges for scratch golfers or even pros.

“He has that ability that he can see a shot for everyone,” Duff said “And most of the golfers here will be midto high-handicappers.”

“I can’t build a golf course here for the pros,” Price said. “That’s not us.

We are not building an Open course.

We want people to enjoy playing this course; it’s is going to be striking.

The idea is to offer a challenge, and to not beat people up.”

He noted that the best golfers still will be challenged.

“You can do that with angles,” he said. “With the shape of the green,

the difficulty of the shot going in (to the green).”

Price was asked if it is hard to envision what a high-handicap golfer will do on specific shots.

EVERY COURSE IS UNIQUE

“I played with four amateurs every Wednesday,” he said, noting that many pro tournaments host proams before the tourneys. “I know.”

And he also noted that this will be the 27th course he has designed or helped design. Born in South Africa and growing up in Zimbabwe, Price has designed courses in South Africa, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Ireland, the People’s Republic of China and the U.S., among others.

Duff and Turner were drawn to him after visiting the McArthur Golf Club, which Price designed in his now home of Hobe Sound on Florida’s east coast with famed architect Tom Fazio.

“Every course is unique, and I’ve learned a lot of things over the years that I can apply here,” Price said.

“This is the biggest budget I have ever been given for a course.”

He said having the funds to move dirt and enhance the drainage system has made all the difference.

“We have six to 17 feet of elevation change,” he said. “This is not dead flat fairways, and then you push up greens. Those days are gone. We are giving the golfers something they are not used to seeing.”

RIGHT GUY FOR THE JOB

It is all being done on deadline.

“Overall, from a timing perspective, everything is going well,” Duff said. “There have been no big surprises.”

Price gets out in front of the little surprises, and Duff said that is what makes him special. As an example, Price designed the No. 5 tee shot over a hazard that would offer golfers quite the challenge to hit the fairway.

However, upon walking the course, Price noted that the No. 5 fairway sloped toward another hazard. So a golfer could hit the perfect tee shot, and still be penalized. The slope of the fairway was redesigned.

“It’s all definitely important to him,” Duff said. “He’s got a great passion, and everyone loves him.

We never had a doubt about him from the initial concept design. We wanted a hands-on guy, and he is just that. Somebody from his team is here every day. Nick wants this course to be known as one of the top private courses in America. We have high expectations.”

Soleta developer Charles Duff is impressed by Nick Price’s ability to design a course that can be enjoyed by golfers of all levels.

Managing Editor / Jay Heater, JHeater@YourObserver.com Senior Editor / Liz Ramos, LRamos@YourObserver.com Sports Editor / Ryan Kohn, RKohn@YourObserver.com Staff Writer / Lesley Dwyer, LDwyer@ YourObserver.com Digital & Engagement Editor / Kaelyn Adix, KAdix@YourObserver.com Copy Editor / Gina Reynolds Haskins, GRHaskins@YourObserver.com Senior Editorial Designer / Melissa Leduc, MLeduc@YourObserver.com A+E Editor / Monica Roman Gagnier, MGagnier@YourObserver.com Director of Advertising / Jill Raleigh, JRaleigh@YourObserver.com Regional Sales Director / Penny Nowicki, PNowicki@YourObserver.com Regional Digital Director / Kathleen O’Hara, KOHara@YourObserver.com Senior Advertising Executive / Laura Ritter, LRitter@YourObserver.com Advertising Executives / Richeal McGuinness, RMcGuinness@ YourObserver.com; Lexi Huelsman, Lexi@ YourObserver.com; Jennifer Kane, JKane@ YourObserver.com; Honesty Mantkowski, HMantkowski@YourObserver.com; Toni Perren, TPerren@YourObserver.com; Brenda White, BWhite@YourObserver.com Classified Advertising Sales Executive / Anna Reich, AReich@YourObserver.com Sales Operations Manager / Susan Leedom, SLeedom@YourObserver.com Sales Coordinator / Account Manager Lori Downey, LDowney@YourObserver.com Advertising/Marketing Coordinator / Caitlin Ellis, CEllis@YourObserver.com Digital Fulfillment Specialist / Emma B. Jolly, EJolly@YourObserver.com Tributes Coordinator / Kristen Boothroyd, Tributes@YourObserver.com Director of Marketing / Robin Lankton, RLankton@YourObserver.com Marketing Specialist / Melanie Melone, MMelone@YourObserver.com Director of Creative Services / Caleb Stanton, CStanton@YourObserver.com Creative Services Administrator / Marjorie Holloway, MHolloway@ YourObserver.com Advertising Graphic Designers / Luis Trujillo, Taylor Poe, Louise Martin, Shawna Polana Digital Developer / Jason Camillo, JCamillo@YourObserver.com Information Technology Manager / Homer Gallego, HGallego@YourObserver. com Chief Financial Officer / Laura Strickland, LStrickland@YourObserver.com Controller / Rafael Labrin, RLabrin@YourObserver.com Office and Accounting Coordinator / Donna Condon, DCondon@ YourObserver.com

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

SIDE OF RANCH

9A

JAY HEATER

Suncoast Classic still thrives in its sixth year F or Justin Kristich, it is a good problem to have.

The director of the LECOM Suncoast Classic, Kristich has to figure out a way to provide more seating on the closing holes of the Lakewood National Golf Course.

Yes, more seating.

Kristich is now in his sixth year of running the Suncoast Classic, which wouldn’t be a big deal if this were a PGA Tour event and you could depend on stars like Rory McIlroy or Justin Spieth to show up every year.

The Suncoast Classic is no longer the new thing in Lakewood Ranch.

Since it was played the first time in 2019, our area has hosted a World Golf Championship event in 2021 at the Concession, and a World Champions Cup (senior) event, also at the Concession, in December.

The LPGA Drive On Championship was held in January at Bradenton Country Club. As residents, we are being exposed to the sport’s highest level.

Does that diminish the power of the Korn Ferry Tour?

Apparently not.

LECOM has signed up for three more years as the event’s host sponsor. Lakewood National has signed up for another three years as the tournament host course.

And Kristich pushes forward, expecting area golf fans to pack the place from April 18-21. He noted last week that the Wednesday pro-am for the tournament is two groups from selling out. Another pro-am is being held the Monday before the event and that will be a sellout as well. The community has embraced the event more than ever.

It’s interesting stuff considering it’s place in the sport. You are watching some of the world’s top golfers, but you don’t know who they are yet. Beyong Hun An, the winner in 2022, currently is 10th on the PGA Tour money list with $2,167,717. Mark Hubbard, the 2019

File photo

Scott Gutschewski holds up the 2023 LECOM Suncoast Classic trophy.

winner, is 30th at $1,064,849.

When they won in Lakewood Ranch, they were like Minor League Baseball players, faceless athletes wearing the same laundry.

Fortunately for Kristich, Korn Ferry Tour players can get up close with the fans, and the volunteers, and show off their personalities.

There is less anonymity.

But Kristich knows he can’t count on the power of the athletes alone.

He has to find attractions that make the most out of every event, and I stress “event.” I am a huge golf fan, but I would admit that one iron shot landing on the green looks pretty much like another. It’s a different feeling if you have a rooting interest. If you don’t, you had better be having a good time.

That could mean food and drinks, activities or being able to get up close to the athletes on the 17th and 18th holes.

When my son was about 7 years old, I took him once to a San Francisco Spiders Minor League Hockey game. We had no idea who any of the players were, but we landed some box seats right on the ice.

After an hour of watching players banging into the boards right in front of our seats, and a couple of fights, and dodging pucks that hit the glass, we felt like millionaires in a luxury box. It was a great sports experience.

At the 17th and 18th holes at the Suncoast Classic, you can cozy up to the green and feel like a VIP. You start realizing that the players are

competing for a $1 million purse, and the pressure increases with each passing group. The tournament has a history of being decided on the final hole.

Then add the social aspect.

Kristich has made sure those closing holes are somewhat of a party, as businesses book space to get as close as they can, and yet have an experience similar to the Sarasota Polo Club’s tailgating. Are those at polo actually watching the polo? I guess you could debate that one. At Lakewood National, the buzz in the crowd makes you wonder if some of those in attendance, perhaps with a few adult beverages under their belt, know that players might be changing their entire lives with one putt.

Sure, it’s a little noisy in a sport where one peep is one peep too many, but overall, the players appreciate the atmosphere. It’s not Phoenix (Hole 16 at the Waste Management Open), but it’s more rowdy than what most would consider normal for a golf tournament, and it is fun.

“It’s a fine line,” Kristich said.

“But we don’t want a strict atmosphere.”

Not far from No. 18 is a Fun Zone, which Kristich said he is ramping for the upcoming tourney and adding a golf simulator.

“We want families to be able to enjoy a full day,” he said.

So here are a few notes from the tournament, in case you plan to attend.

■ Volunteer positions are filling up. The tournament signed up 450 volunteers last year, and this year the target goal is 475. All kinds of positions (marshals, hospitality, security, ticket takers, shuttles, driving range attendants) still are open, although 275 volunteers have taken spots. It costs $40 to volunteer, but you get a hat, T-shirt, a free round of golf and lunch and/ or dinner depending on your shift.

Volunteers are asked to work a minimum of three shifts that could last five to six hours depending on the task.

■ There is a need for ShotLink operators. These are volunteers who will be working green-side.

Once the players hit their shots on the green, a ShotLink operator will go on to the green and line up their device (like a golf range finder) with the ball and the hole. The device will record distance of each putt.

Kristich said the PGA Tour records how many feet of putts each golfer has made during an event, and the Korn Ferry Tour would like to keep pace. Volunteers don’t need any experience as instruction will be provided before the event.

■ Pro-ams are filling up quickly.

If you want to play in a pro-am, sign up now as both events are almost filled.

■ The Lakewood National Clubhouse will be in use. For the first time, the clubhouse, with construction completed in the last year, is available to the players, who will have locker room facilities and a dining room. Kristich said that improvement puts the event in the “upper echelon” of Korn Ferry Tour events.

■ Ticket prices remain the same.

It’s still $20 per round with specials for military personnel, veterans, kids, teachers, first responders and more.

For more information, for tickets or to sign up to volunteer, go to LECOMSuncoastClassic.com.

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

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

Festival features kosher food Those seeking kosher food in the Lakewood Ranch area find themselves in a pickle.

CHECK OUT OUR

IF YOU GO

KOSHER FOOD FESTIVAL When: 1-5 p.m. March 3 Where: Chabad of Bradenton & Lakewood Ranch, 5712 Lorraine Road Admission: Free Details: Enjoy a variety of kosher foods, live music, kosher crafts, inflatables and more. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended.

More information: ChabadOfBradenton.com/Kosher

LIZ RAMOS

NEWSAPPER

SENIOR EDITOR

C

hanie Bukiet, with the Chabad of Bradenton & Lakewood Ranch, said she has received dozens of calls from people in the community wondering where they can find kosher food options.

Bukiet’s answer always is: “The options are limited.”

Bukiet said the closest strictly kosher restaurant is in Sarasota.

The closest kosher markets are in Wimauma, Sarasota or St. Petersburg.

So Chabad of Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch is hosting its first Kosher Food Festival on March 3.

“This year, we wanted to bring events that have to do with mitzvahs, which are good deeds, things that we could connect to God,” Bukiet said.

“With all the calls we’ve been getting, we had to do this. I know people are excited about it.”

Liz Ramos

Chanie Bukiet, with the Chabad of Bradenton & Lakewood Ranch, says the gourmet kosher popcorn from Popinsanity will be a specialty item at the Kosher Food Festival.

The Kosher Food Festival will give people, whether they are Jewish, the opportunity to learn more about kosher foods, Bukiet said.

Bukiet said the menu will include corned beef or pastrami on rye, falafel, stuffed cabbage, potato knish, chicken matzah ball soup, sourdough challah and babka.

Bukiet said the menu was created with fan favorites in mind. She said the most popular food items at every Shabbat are sourdough challah and stuffed cabbage, so of course they’ll be on the festival’s menu.

“More people are becoming aware of keeping kosher,” Bukiet said. “A lot of people are moving here, a lot of Jewish people who keep a kosher home.”

A speciality people can order will be the gourmet kosher popcorn from Popinsanity. Another item is the babka, which will be shipped from a bakery in New York.

Although the festival is focused on food, there also will be arts and crafts, live music from the Klezmer Freylach Band and booths for people to make their own challah bread and hamantaschen pastries. There also will be inflatables for the kids.

With it being the Chabad of Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch’s first Kosher Food Festival, Bukiet recommends attendees arrive early because the festival foods are available while supplies last.

She also recommends purchasing tickets in advance at ChabadOfBradenton.com/Kosher.

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YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

ADVERTISEMENT

Photos by Lesley Dwyer

Victoria Kasdan is a co-founder of Making An Impact.

WILL MEDICARE MISSTEPS AFFECT YOUR RETIREMENT?

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M

anatee County Sheriff Rick Wells was the first person to place a bulk order for Making An Impact’s Community Connections Resource Guide.

The nonprofit can only afford to print 1,500 a year. Since a special reprint was needed to fill the order, the Sheriff Office’s star logo was added to the reference guides containing information on more than 300 organizations that provide assistance to residents in Manatee and Sarasota counties.

Every choice affects the future of both healthcare and personal finances.

“Every day our deputies come in contact with people who have needs beyond what we as a law enforcement agency are equipped to handle,” Wells wrote in a testimonial.

“It’s great to have the ready reference guide with a list of resource programs and organizations that can provide additional services.”

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic when many Americans were on their sofas binge watching “Tiger King,” Victorian Kasdan spent her free time on the phone finding the right people and making a plan.

Kasdan is the former executive director of We Care Manatee Inc., a nonprofit that provides free healthcare to uninsured, low income residents. After transitioning her career into consulting, she found herself searching for something like the Community Connections Resource Guide on behalf of a client.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

but it only covers the surrounding service area, not the entire county.

During her search, the Community Foundation of Sarasota County connected Kasdan with Linda Hoy, a retired CPA volunteering her time at Bayside Community Church. Hoy had compiled a list of resources in a handwritten notebook that Kasdan described as being as big as a phone book.

Hoy had contacted the Community Foundation of Sarasota for help putting her notebook to use. She knew the information could be an asset to other helpers in the community, but she didn’t know what to do with it.

At first, Kasdan only contacted Hoy for her clients’ benefit. As her consulting clients dwindled at the start of the pandemic, Kasdan contacted Hoy to do something bigger with her notebook.

The pair formed the nonprofit Making An Impact and went to work in April 2020. The first resource guides were printed that August.

The guides focus on basic needs.

Resources are divided among 17 categories, including addiction, employment, housing, food assistance and mental health services.

Wells has about 120 deputies on staff and found the guides so useful that he told Kasdan he would be sharing them with staff members who work with inmates being released and agencies his office works closely with, like Hope Family Services, a domestic violence center.

Making An Impact also gives some guides away to individuals through outreach events in low-income communities.

“The guides were originally intended to give to those who help others,” Kasdan said. “That’s how we figured as a small group we could have a bigger impact. They see hundreds and thousands of people in whatever they do.”

Whether that means contact with a domestic violence center or homeless shelter, Kasdan said nine times out of 10, people need additional services.

When Hurricane Ian hit, Making An Impact created the Disaster Recovery Resource Guide, which was printed and distributed only two weeks later, along with cards and

TRIBUTES James Stephen ‘Steve’ Cox 1951-2024 James Stephen ‘Steve’ Cox, 72, of Bradenton, FL, passed away on February 14, 2024, with his family by his side. Born and raised in Bradenton, FL, on December 29, 1951, he lived a life marked by unwavering devotion to his faith, family, friends, and community. He was an esteemed community pillar and board member, serving in diverse leadership capacities across business, church, and charitable organizations.

Making An Impact resource guides make finding help easier for organizations and individuals.

posters that contained a QR code.

Both the basic needs guide and disaster guide can be found on the nonprofit’s website. The searchable web app is available in more than 20 languages and can search for services according to the user’s location.

The nonprofit is currently launching a Pharmacy Discount Resource Guide, too.

“Medications are very expensive,” Kasdan said. “This one covers where you can get discounts — discount cards, coupons, foundation programs, government programs, online pharmacies and retail programs.”

The guide also includes educational information, such as how to spot an online pharmacy scam.

Making An Impact currently has seven volunteers, three of whom work directly on the guides. The nonprofit is seeking sponsors to hire a staff person and support the operational expenses.

“The guide cost of $8 helps (the disaster guide costs $6), but even at that price, it doesn’t cover all our expenses,” Kasdan said. “Our board members donate, and we apply for grants. Our biggest challenge as a small, all-volunteer organization is that demand for our service exceeds our financial and human capital resources.”

The guides are updated every year, and organizations can also apply for grants to purchase them.

He attended Ballard Elementary, Walker Junior High, Manatee High School, and Northwood University, leading up to his career as a fourth-generation Chevy dealer for Cox Chevrolet, a role he shared with his partner and brother, Gary Cox. He is predeceased by his father, James Olin Cox Jr.; his mother, Joyce Purinton Cox Greene; his wife, Judy Musgrave Cox; and his grandson, Jesse Logan Lipsey, who was lost to a miscarriage. He is survived by his siblings Cindy Moore of Palmetto, FL; Nancy (Burt) Harris of Vilano Beach, FL; Gary (Shannon) Cox of Bradenton, FL; his children Tammy (Justin) Leavell, Jennifer (Jamie) Lipsey, and Jay (Jennifer) Cox; his seven grandchil-

dren, Lexi and Olin Leavell; Jaden and Jordan Lipsey; Ellie, Emma, and Goldie Cox; along with his many nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 29, 2024, at 1pm at First Baptist Church of Palmetto, 1020 4th St. W., Palmetto FL 34221, with a Celebration of Life service at 2pm at the Church. Committal will be held at Manasota Memorial Park immediately following the service. We will gather for a dinner reception from 5pm-7pm at Robert Toale & Sons Funeral Home at Manasota Park, located at 1221 53rd Ave E, Bradenton, FL 34203. In lieu of flowers, we invite you to make a memorial contribution to

Suncoast Youth for Christ, a cause close to Steve’s heart.

Contributions can be sent to PO BOX 123, Bradenton, FL 34206, or made online at https://suncoastyfc.org/.

Griffith-Cline Funeral Home is in charge of handling the arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.griffithcline. com.

For those unable to attend, we invite you to join us by watching the live stream at https://www. fbcpalmetto.com/fbcmedia/livestream.html.

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FEBRUARY 29, 2024

SPORTS

“I get the ‘runner’s high’ now and then.

That’s a good rush.”

— Lakewood Ranch High’s Vicente Rivera SEE PAGE 16A

Fast

Break

Ryan Kohn

Braden River High senior wrestler Gage Wiggins is 57-1 at 165 pounds after finishing second at the regional.

B

raden River High boys wrestlers Gage Wiggins and Matthew Ireland received silver medals at the Florida High School Athletic Association Class 2A Region 3 meet held Feb. 24 at Charlotte High. Wiggins (57-1), a senior, lost 1-0 to Tampa Jesuit High senior Brandon Cody (31-5) in the 165-pound final. Ireland (47-11), a senior, lost by fall to Tampa Jesuit junior Malachi Ortiz (34-6) in the 113-pound final.

Both wrestlers will advance to the state meet, held Feb. 29-March 2, at Silver Spurs Arena in Kissimmee. … Lakewood Ranch High boys wrestling senior Evan Bolick finished fourth in the 215-pound weight class at the FHSAA Class 3A Region 2 meet, held Feb. 24 at Osceola High. Bolick (36-8) lost by fall to Bloomingdale High senior Mizael Morales (41-7) in the third-place match. Bolick will advance to the state meet. … Braden River High baseball junior Camden Pope went 3-3 with a double and two RBIs in the Pirates’ 10-8 road win over Riverview High on Feb. 20. The Pirates are 1-1 as of Feb. 26. … Lakewood Ranch High girls lacrosse sophomore Gabbie Hotaling had six goals and three assists in the Mustangs’ 18-8 home win over Sarasota High on Feb. 20. The Mustangs are 3-2 as of Feb. 26. … Former Lakewood Ranch High softball star McKenzie Clark, a junior outfielder at Clemson University, had two hits, one walk and one RBI on Feb. 23 in the Tigers’ 9-1 win over the University of Mississippi. The Tigers are 11-2. Clark is hitting .324 and has a .490 on-base percentage. She has been hit-by-pitch seven times.

STARS ALIGN PAGE 15A

FOURTH TIME’S A CHARM? Photos by Ryan Kohn

The Cougars have reached the Class 3A state tournament four years in a row but have yet to win the title.

RYAN KOHN SPORTS EDITOR

A

fter hoisting her girls basketball team’s regional championship trophy

alongside her teammates, Cardinal Mooney junior forward Kali Barrett wiped tears from her eyes.

The East County athlete has been here before, as this will be her thirdstraight trip to the Florida High School Athletic Association Class 3A state tournament in Lakeland, and this will be the Cougars’ fourthstraight trip. Cardinal Mooney (21-6) will take on Seffner Christian (25-4) at 1 p.m. Feb. 28. The winner will advance to the state championship game on March 1.

The state tournament is functionally a final four and Cardinal Mooney program has yet win the title. Cardinal Mooney is going back because of a 64-40 home win over Tampa Catholic (21-7) on Feb. 22 in the regional finals.

Barrett and the Cougars are determined to change their state tournament fate. Barrett said the tears she shed after the regional title win came because she believes now is Cardinal Mooney’s time.

“This is the year,” Barrett said with a smile.

Barrett’s teammates include fellow East County athletes in Madi Mignery, a freshman forward; Talia Busser, a sophomore guard; and Avery Davis, a junior guard.

The 6-foot-2 Barrett, who holds NCAA Division I offers from the University of Dayton and George Mason University, among 13 other schools, leads the way. She is averaging 14.9 points and 8.7 rebounds per game and can elevate her game even further when necessary. Against Tampa Catholic, Barrett scored 27 points. Barrett’s optimism about her team’s fate doesn’t stem solely from her own performances, though.

This year’s Cardinal Mooney squad is deeper than in any of its previous three runs to the state tournament, Barrett said.

The 6-foot-1 Mignery’s arrival has

FHSAA GIRLS BASKETBALL CLASS 3A STATE SEMIFINAL Who: Cardinal Mooney High (21-6) vs. Seffner Christian (25-4) When: 1 p.m. Feb. 28 Where: RP Funding Center in Lakeland At stake: A spot in the March 1 state championship game East County athletes: Cardinal Mooney juniors Kali Barrett and Avery Davis, sophomore Talia Busser and freshman Madi Mignery Of note: Cardinal Mooney has now reached the state tournament four years in a row How to watch: The game will be streamed on NFHSNetwork. com.

given the Cougars someone who can play in the post as well as bring the ball up court and drive to the basket.

Mignery averages 10.5 points and 9.9 rebounds per game and plays sticky defense. Against Tampa Catholic, Mignery had 12 points and either blocked or redirected several shots in the paint on defense, which the team routinely turned into transition offense.

The other East County members of the team, Busser (6.7 points per game) and Davis (1.7 points per game), play smaller roles off the bench, but the Cougars also get big contributions from Sarasota-area athletes like junior guards Sy’monique Simon (12.2 points, 5.8 rebounds per game), Bri Behn (7.9 points, 3.5 assists per game) and senior forward Sam Kotasek (4.1 points per game). Under direction from head coach Marlon Williams, the Cougars emphasize defense, yet have potent scorers. The result is a team that can win games in multiple ways.

It is also a team that spent the first half of its season trying to find itself.

The Cougars had an 8-6 record at the end of 2023.

The calendar year was capped with a 59-35 loss to St. Thomas Aquinas High (21-9) on Dec. 30 at the Tampa Bay Christmas Invitational, held at the Wiregrass Ranch Sports Complex in Wesley Chapel.

“We got our butts kicked,” Barrett said.

The loss was the low point of the team’s season, Barrett said, but it was also the moment the team realized things needed to change. There had to be more focus, more hustle

and more energy.

Mooney has not lost a game since.

Though getting to the state tournament has become the expectation for the Cardinal Mooney program, Mignery is new to it all as a freshman. She spent the regional title celebration hugging her teammates, but remained dry-eyed.

Mignery was glad her team won, but was already thinking about what still remains.

“I’m excited, but we have two games left to win,” Mignery said.

“We have to have a ‘one game at a time’ mentality and keep working as hard as we can. We have a lot more to prove.”

Mignery said her physical play in the paint comes naturally. She loves to disrupt opponents and frustrate them, she said. Not only is it good for her team, she said, but it awakens the crowd, which provides Mignery with even more energy. Mignery is a style of player Cardinal Mooney has not had in past visits to the state tournament.

The team’s East County contingent will need to stay sharp against Seffner Christian, though they will enter as the favorite. The Crusaders are ranked No. 4 in Class 3A and No. 19 in Florida by MaxPreps, while Cardinal Mooney is ranked No. 2 in Class 3A and No. 13 in Florida.

Cardinal Mooney High junior Kali Barrett follows through after making a 3-point attempt against Tampa Catholic in the regional championship game.

Barrett finished with 27 points.

Cardinal Mooney High freshman Madi Mignery drives past Tampa Catholic’s Zalani Carter for a basket. Mignery finished with 12 points.

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

PROSE AND KOHN

RYAN KOHN

Ryan Kohn

The 1997 Manatee East All-Stars receive a commemorative plaque, which will hang at Lakewood Ranch Little League’s fields. The team reached the Little League World Series in Williamsport, getting eliminated in the semifinals.

A World Series remembered

I

n 1997, a group of Lakewood Ranch Little League kids beat the odds.

According to the Little League parent organization, there were 2,993,760 Little Leaguers playing Majors-level ball — 9-12 years old — that year across the globe. Only eight teams, consisting of 14 kids each, reached the sport’s annual culmination: the Little League

World Series, held in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. That’s approximately 0.0038% of all Little Leaguers in the world.

Through talent and a bit of luck, the Lakewood Ranch group of All-Stars — known as the Manatee East All-Stars back then — became some of the lucky few. They battled through the South regional tournament to reach that point, including a squeaker against the Texas’ representative in the regional final, then held tough in the World Series itself, reaching the semifinals before being eliminated by California. Ultimately, the squad representing Mexico won the whole thing.

Getting to that point was an

ADOPT DON’T SHOP

accomplishment all its own. The team is the only Manatee County team to reach the Little League World Series.

On Feb. 24, as part of Lakewood Ranch Little League’s opening day festivities — the league is in its 35th season — the organization honored the 1997 All-Stars, making sure current and future baseball players know what was accomplished.

Team members Rod Harper, Mike Cucci, Larry Cobb, Jon Cassidy, Brandon Noel, Trevor Blair, Scottie Ellis and Ryan Kennedy, along with head coach Mike Kennedy were on hand to be presented a commemorative plaque that will hang at the organization’s fields. The plaque contains the names of all the 1997

team’s players and coaches and recognizes the World Series appearance.

Afterward, while current Little Leaguers played exhibition games, members of the 1997 team reminisced about their glory days.

The common theme?

“Resilience,” Blair said. “We had a ‘never quit’ attitude.”

Blair said the team found itself in a number of tough situations along its path to the World Series, none more heart-pounding than the aforementioned game against Texas. As recalled by Ryan Kennedy, a pitcher on the 1997 team and the former head baseball coach at Lakewood Ranch High, the team was down 2-0 going into the bottom of the sixth inning. Worse, they did not even have a hit.

Three outs from elimination, the team rallied.

The team’s offense used small ball strategies to get on base and advance runners. Only a single by Joel Cocciolone left the infield, Kennedy said, but it scored Kennedy from third base. The game went into extra innings, and the kids from Lakewood Ranch eventually won 3-2 in 10 innings.

“Our coaches put it into our heads that anything was possible,” Blair said. “It took awhile, but we got there. We believed it.”

Once in Williamsport, Ryan Kennedy said, things felt a bit different. The players did not get to see their parents much, he said, getting whisked from their hotels to the games with the supervision of their coaches. They played in front of a significantly bigger audience than they were used to, especially in the second game of the threegame opening round, when the team played a squad from nearby Pottsville, Pennsylvania. In the stands were 35,000 people, which Kennedy said was, at the time, an LLWS record for a nonchampionship game. The Lakewood Ranch kids won 5-0.

For kids who lived and breathed baseball, it felt like a dream.

“You would walk from the fields to the dorms, and you had people

asking for your autograph,” Kennedy said. “They treat you like big-leaguers.”

That was one memory the players shared. Noel said some members of the team had not seen each other in a decade or longer, and that it was nice to reminisce. But as happy as the team members were to be there, they were just as enthusiastic in their wish that another team from Manatee County matches their feat.

“I want the next generation to experience that stuff,” Noel said.

“You’re 12 years old. You might only be going 1,000 miles away, but you’re meeting kids from, potentially, anywhere in the world. I beat some from kids from Japan in ping pong. That was my favorite thing.”

Come summer, another group of All-Stars will get their shot.

Not just at Lakewood Ranch Little League, but at Braden River Little League and elsewhere in the county.

The odds of reaching Williamsport are long, but someone has to go. It might as well be a Manatee County representative.

For anyone who makes an AllStar team, take note of the lessons the 1997 team is giving. The road to Williamsport is long, and it is hard.

There will be challenges. There will be times when you stare failure in the face. In those times, perseverance is a must.

The rewards are multiple, trophies and medals among them. But the real treasure of going on such a journey is never forgetting it. No matter where you and your Little League teammates go next, you’ll always have the memories of what you accomplished together.

“I can’t emphasize this enough: We were a family,” Kennedy said.

“We always picked each other up.”

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

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The 1997 Lakewood Ranch Little League All-Star team reached the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

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Vicente Rivera is a junior on the Lakewood Ranch High boys track and field team. Rivera won the 3,200-meter race (10:11.48) by 15.35 seconds at the Lakewood Ranch Invitational held Feb. 22 at Lakewood Ranch High.

When did you start competitive running?

I started running as a freshman in high school. I did not know if I actually wanted to do it or not until I saw my JROTC first sergeant (Dylan Underwood) run. He was a senior.

I saw how fast he could run, and I said, ‘I want to be like that.’

What is the appeal to you?

It gives me a good feeling. I get the ‘runner’s high’ now and then. That’s a good rush. But I also think I can run in college. It could help me get into places.

Do you prefer track or crosscountry?

Cross-country. I like that the courses are more diverse.

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How did it feel to win the 3,200 at the Lakewood Ranch Invitational?

It was euphoria. I did not expect to win, but I felt like I had a little more left in me at the end, so I went for it and pulled ahead. It was a personal record for me. I just thought, ‘Wow, I cannot believe I did it.’ It is my first win at the varsity level.

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

that, so now my big goal is getting under 9:50. I also want to get under 4:40 in the 1,600.

What is your favorite food?

I love a double cheeseburger from Culver’s. I get one after every single race with my dad (Humberto Rivera).

What is your favorite school subject?

U.S. History. I know a good amount of it, so the tests are easy, but I also just find it interesting. The United States has gone through a lot in the last 200 years or so. It’s incredible.

What are your hobbies?

Honestly, I like to run a lot in my free time. But I also play games with my friends, or every now and then read a book.

What is the best advice you have received?

Just run miles. The rest (of the skills) will come later.

Finish this sentence: “Vicente Rivera is …” … Persistent. That’s what distance running is about.

What is your favorite running memory?

Well, winning the 3,200 was pretty memorable. But I also had a moment during cross-country season in the fall. I was on a 10-mile run by myself near Greenbrook Adventure Park, and I went over a hill. It was a bridge that arched upward. It was beautiful. I felt peace in that moment. It was nice.

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At the beginning of the season I wanted to get under 10 minutes in the 3,200. At the pace I’m going now, I feel like I’ll probably break

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*Due to legal constraints, the free vein screening offer cannot be extended to Medicare or Medicaid beneficiaries or other recipients of federal or state health care benefit programs.

THE TRUSTED CHOICE //

We know that choosing where to receive care after

Please join us at an upcoming

Community Education Program.

Learn from healthcare experts on a variety of topics, hosted by Encompass Health.

a life-changing illness or injury is an important decision. When you choose our hospital for your rehabilitation, you receive compassionate care from an expert team that works together to help you meet your unique goals. Our clinicians combine innovative technologies and advanced therapies

Community Stroke & Cardiac Support Group Feb. 15, 12-1 p.m.

into a treatment plan that helps you achieve what’s important to you.

Your dedicated care team includes: • Occupational, physical and speech therapists • Physicians

• Dietitians • Pharmacists • Case managers

• Registered nurses

Join the Powerhouses of Parkinson’s Feb. 22, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Conditions we treat: • Brain injuries

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For more information on these programs and others, please scan the QR code or call 941.705.7070. encompasshealth.com/sarasotarehab ©2023:Encompass Health Corporation:MyTurn2

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YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

17A

Our Answer To Cancer Our answer to cancer is an eight-story oncology tower outfitted with nine operating rooms and robotic surgery capabilities.

Our answer to cancer is a radiation oncology center equipped with state-of-the-art medical technology, delivering individualized care with laser precision.

Our answer to cancer is a multidisciplinary team of oncologists and nurses, surgeons and support staff providing the full continuum of care, from diagnosis and intervention to remission and survivorship, and backed by one of the best public health systems in the nation.

Our answer to cancer is the Brian D. Jellison Cancer Institute, and we’re saying it louder every day.

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smh.com/cancer

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

YOUR LAKEWOOD RANCH NEIGHBOR

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18A

Classifieds 15B Games 14B Real Estate 11B Weather 14B

FEBRUARY 29, 2024

YOUR NEIGHBORS

Former Pastor Mark Albritton, who served as pastor of Sandy Baptist Church from 2019 to 2023, says preserving history was a priority in the church’s renovation.

STILL STANDING

Former Pastor Mark Albritton oversaw a restoration project that helped save the 120-year-old Sandy Baptist Church in Myakka.

LIZ RAMOS SENIOR EDITOR

W

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alking into the oneroom Sandy Baptist Church in 2019, Pastor Mark Albritton had his doubts.

He had been working at Bayside Church in Lakewood Ranch and was used to a big, modern church. He considered taking a teaching position at Bayside College.

Meanwhile, Sandy Baptist Church was more than 120 years old in Myakka City and hadn’t seen much change in all those years.

But the Sandy Baptist Church board was asking Mark Albritton to take over as pastor after his father, Larry Albritton, retired. Larry Albritton served as pastor of Sandy Baptist from 1991 to 2019.

Mark Albritton had an important question.

How was he going to respect the traditions and history of Sandy Baptist Church and his father’s legacy while modernizing it to attract younger families and grow the congregation?

In January, Mark Albritton reflected on his more than four years leading the church. After an initial renovation to bring the run-down church building back to life and another project to repair Hurricane Ian damages, Albritton said his hard work paid off.

He stepped down in December to focus on his family and passed the pastor duties to Josh Richter, who now has the responsibility of keeping the church vibrant as it heads into the future.

In 2019, Albritton decided to take a “temporary” role as pastor at Sandy Baptist Church, but that temporary role stretched out to more than four years.

When, and if, the church reaches its 150th birthday, parishioners might deem those four-plus years to be the most important in the church’s history. Albritton went about restoration projects by letting the church’s history guide him.

The church was built in 1887, and the church itself incorporated in 1904.

While someone outside the congregation might not have taken on the job, the church has been significant to the Albritton family for decades. His father, Larry Albritton, who is now 81, lived down the road from the church growing up.

Larry Albritton would pass the church every day on his way to his school bus stop.

“It was nothing for a country kid to walk two miles down the road at the age of 8,” he said.

He remembered riding his horse to the church and stopping to use a well to get water for him and his horse. He

said the church also would be a stop after a night of partying to “calm down” before he went home.

He never imagined he would later preach at Sandy Baptist Church and eventually make it his home-based church.

The church was built in the middle of a 10-acre cow pasture. The church only owned five acres, and the church’s property line actually ran right down the middle of the building, with half the church on a neighboring property. Every time Larry Albritton preached, he trespassed, depending on where he was standing in the building. The congregation came together to purchase the other five acres in 2005.

Throughout his time as pastor, Larry Albritton grew the congregation to between 40 and 50 parishioners attending service every Sunday.

That included Sarasota’s MaryAnne Hecht.

She stumbled upon the church in 2004, after a particularly bad hurricane season for Florida. Hecht, who was a digital photography teacher at the time, was taking photos of the damage in Myakka City when she came across what she thought was a “little abandoned, one-room schoolhouse,” but she realized it wasn’t what it seemed when she saw a sign that read, “Sunday service 11 a.m.”

Soon after, Hecht decided to attend an Easter service. When she arrived, a man on a horse was riding up to the church. Hecht asked the man why he was riding his horse. He told her his car broke down — how else was he supposed to get there?

The Albrittons remembered when the church hosted Cowboy Day and Old Fashioned Day, which would each draw more than 100 people to the church. Cowboys would come from all over the state, and Old Fashioned Day would teach people what it was like to live in the 1800s and 1900s.

Back in the day, the church performed baptisms in the pond on the church’s property, even as gators swam around.

People loved the tight-knit community created at the church.

Hecht said if people needed prayer, Larry Albritton would invite them to

the front of the church and everyone would come together to pray for them. But as much as he loved the history and traditions of the church, Mark Albritton knew he needed to make changes to draw in younger families.

The modernizations weren’t met without some resistance from parishioners.

When he started at the church in 2019, he said it was in disarray with cracked windows and debris all over. Parishioners had been donating items that didn’t always have a purpose at the church.

Mark Albritton got rid of the clutter, had the church painted, repaired the windows and purchased new songbooks.

The thought of adding a TV and video equipment to the church was controversial, but Mark Albritton said it was necessary to infuse technology. He also added microphones at the pulpit and for the musicians.

He wanted the ability to live stream services.

Then, the COVID-19 pandemic hit.

Although it was an adjustment for all, attending services via live streams on Facebook became a norm for the parishioners. The services continue to be live streamed every Sunday.

Even with the modernizations, Mark Albritton was committed to staying true to the rustic, Old Florida feel of the church.

He was determined to keep the outhouse that remains on the property, although it’s not used anymore.

Parishioners are able to use the restrooms in the fellowship hall. He said the outhouse has been updated a few times to ensure it remains standing.

“There’s not too many left in Florida, so we’re kind of proud of our outhouse,” Albritton said. “It’s actually what we used when I first started coming here when my dad was preaching here.”

Also remaining is the long wooden picnic table where the parishioners would have lunch after service every Sunday when Larry Albritton was pastor.

SEE CHURCH, PAGE 12B

Sandy Baptist Church stands on Clay Gully Road. The church incorporated in 1904.

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YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

YOUR CALENDAR

GROW YOUR OWN WE CAN HELP!

• Potting Soil • Compost • Garden Fertilizers

• Organic Pest Control • Hydroponics • & Tons More!

THURSDAY, FEB. 29 THROUGH SUNDAY, MARCH 10 CIRCUS SARASOTA Runs 7 p.m. Feb. 29, 7 p.m. March 1, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. March 2, and 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. March 3 under the big top at Nathan Benderson Park.

Circus Sarasota is back with a show that features various entertainers from around the world. Tickets are $30 and up. Shows run daily except for Mondays and Tuesdays. For a list of times, shows and prices, go to CircusArts.org.

THURSDAY, FEB. 29 THROUGH SUNDAY, MARCH 3

LIVE MUSIC AT JIGGS LANDING Runs from 3-6 p.m. each day at Jiggs Landing, 6106 63rd St. E., Bradenton. The live music lineup at Jiggs Landing includes Steve Arvey (Thursday), Soundwave (Friday), Gator Ridge Ramblers (Saturday) and Mike Sales (Sunday). The Friday and Saturday concerts have a $5 cover; the other concerts are free. For more information, visit JiggsLanding.com.

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COMMUNITY

FRIDAY, MARCH 1 AND SATURDAY, MARCH 2

MUSIC AT THE PLAZA Runs 6-9 p.m. at 1560 Lakefront Drive, Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch. Singer/songwriter Sara Nelms will perform on Friday for those strolling the streets of Waterside Place in this free concert.

On Saturday, singer/musician Ektor Keys will entertain the crowd. For more information, go to WatersidePlace.com.

SATURDAY, MARCH 2

GUIDE DOGS WALKATHON Begins at 9 a.m. at Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota. The Southeastern Guide Dogs Walkathon includes a 3K walk and the “Waggin’ Tails Festival,” which features music, food, vendors, a beer garden and a raffle drawing.

Registration is free, though fundraising for Southeastern Guide Dogs is encouraged. For more information, visit NathanBendersonPark.org or GuideDogs.org.

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MAIN STREET MARKET Runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Main Street at Lakewood Ranch. Shop

Do you have an old fur hanging in the closet not being worn?

BEST BET FRIDAY, MARCH 1

MUSIC ON MAIN Runs from 6-9 p.m. at Main Street at Lakewood Ranch. The North Carolina band Eireann’s Call will play Celtic rock, featuring bagpipes and fiddles.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Manatee Children’s Services. The free concert and block party series features live music, food vendors, beer trucks, sponsor booths and games and activities for kids (sponsored by Grace Community Church). For more information, go to MyLWR.com.

from more than 70 local vendors featuring boutiques, candles, baked goods, sweets, jewelry, live music and more. For more information, send an email to MainStreetMarketLWR@gmail.com.

SUNDAY, MARCH 3

POLO Begins at 1 p.m. at the Sarasota Polo Club, 8201 Polo Club Lane, Lakewood Ranch. The Sarasota Polo Club runs every Sunday through April 7.

Tickets are $15, with VIP packages available. Gates open at 10 a.m.

Besides the polo action, enjoy the opening parade, halftime wagon rides and food and drinks. Enjoy the traditional divot stomping at halftime. For tickets or information, go to SarasotaPolo.com.

FARMERS MARKET Runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Lakefront Drive in Waterside Place, Lakewood Ranch. The Farmers Market at Lakewood Ranch will run year-round every Sunday. Vendors will be offering seafood, eggs, meats, dairy products, pastas, bakery goods, jams and pickles, among other items. Other features are children’s activities and live music. For more information, visit MyLWR.com.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6

RANCH NIGHT WEDNESDAYS Runs from 6-9 p.m. at 1561 Lakefront Drive, Waterside Place, Lakewood Ranch. The weekly event includes good trucks, live music, a night market, a vintage mobile bar, and a recreational cornhole league.

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YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

3B

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Broker participation is welcomed and encouraged. ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. This project has been filed in the state of Florida and no other state.

This is not an offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy the condominium units in states where such offer or solicitation cannot be made. Prices and availability are subject to change at any time without notice.

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

MVP Sports and Social members go all out for the pirate costume contest. Photos were posted on social media so members at home could vote for best costume.

Courtesy images

MVP Sports and Social members represent their favorite teams during the Super Bowl watch party.

Ranchers sail away together Local residents board a cruise with the area’s sports and social organization.

LIZ RAMOS SENIOR EDITOR

W

hile the rest of the cruise passengers were dressed up for the ship’s formal night, the 250 MVP Sports and Social members had a different idea — they wore pirate costumes.

Lakewood Ranch’s Kelly Harmon said they weren’t just talking about T-shirts and eye patches for those representing Lakewood Ranch’s primary sports and social group. They went all out.

Leading the way were MVP Sports and Social founders Chris McComas and his wife, Jessi McComas.

OH WHAT FUN

MVP Sports and Social organized a cruise filled with various events and activities including: ■ Pirate costume contest ■ Dance party ■ Karaoke night ■ Team challenges and activities ■ Comedy show

McComas wore a 10-foot pirate mascot costume, while Jessi McComas brought Mr. Smee from Disney’s “Peter Pan” to life.

Harmon said the photos of members dressed up were posted on MVP Sports and Social’s social media so members not making the trip could vote on best costumes and still feel like they were part of the event.

Whether it was Pirate Night, Karaoke Night, Comedy Night, the Super Bowl Watch Party or even during the excursions around Cozumel, those who attended the Carnival cruise on Feb. 8-12 said it is one they’ll never forget.

McComas said he and his wife always are looking for ways to provide new opportunities for Lakewood Ranch residents to connect.

The cruise was an immediate hit.

Lakewood Ranch’s Melissa Hueser said she got to know other members of her cornhole league, as well as those who play other sports in the social group. For example, she said she met those who played in MVP’s volleyball, cornhole, disc golf and mini golf leagues all in one trip to a Jacuzzi.

Through much of the trip, those with the MVP group carried cutouts of Chris McComas’ face during their various adventures, whether it was

Daryl Haworth and Chris McComas splash around the pool.

swimming with dolphins, snorkeling, touring a distillery or drinking at a local bar. McComas joked he was able to see all of Cozumel without actually being there.

Although MVP organized games and events, Hueser and Harmon said the beauty of the cruise was that none of it was required, but no one wanted to miss out on the activities.

On the first day, all 250 members wore their MVP Sports and Social cruise shirts. They gathered on the helipad of the ship for a group photo. McComas said the group photo brought him an “incredible feeling of community.”

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4B

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

5B

I t's only Natural The appeal of Wild Blue at Waterside by Stock Development is perfectly natural. With its prime Lakewood Ranch location, incredible amenities, and luxury single-family homes by some of the area’s finest builders, this waterfront community is the perfect blend of back-to-nature fun and resort-style living. Discover outdoor adventures at the 13-acre sports complex, and relax at the social clubhouse, with indoor and outdoor dining, two pools, a movie theater, fitness center, and a 9-hole premier putting course.

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6B

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024 Duette® Honeycomb Shades Operating System PowerView® Automation

BLINDS•SHUTTERS DRAPERIES•WALLCOVERINGS Photos by Liz Ramos

The McDermott, Caiano, Reed and Sierra families, who all are neighbors in Harmony, participate in the Community Campout.

941-925-7800 mmwallcoveringsblinds.com

Janet and Curt Mattson Owners

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or 13 years, Lakewood Ranch’s Nicole Thibodeau has been asking her husband, Phil Thibodeau, to take her camping.

To celebrate her birthday Feb. 24, Phil Thibodeau made Nicole Thibodeau’s wish come true.

The Thibodeaus took their kids, 7-yearold Lochlan, 5-year-old Zolana and 4-yearold Dexon, to Lakewood Ranch Community Activities’ annual Community Campout at Greenbrook Adventure Park.

Nicole Thibodeau said she loved camping as a child, when she and her dad would go to Mount Washington in New Hampshire in February to brave the cold weather.

“We would spend a couple of days out there, and it was absolutely freezing, but it was nice to be close to nature,” she said.

“The conveniences of life make it so easy.

Camping includes good skills for my kids to learn.”

Andy Caiano said he helped each of the families with pitching their tents.

“I didn’t come here as the expert (in pitching tents), but I’m leaving here as the expert,” he said.

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Justin Layman sings a song from Disney’s “Moana.”

E.T., a barred owl, makes an appearance at the Community Campout.

Barred owls are one of the more common owls in the Lakewood Ranch area.

— LIZ RAMOS

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YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

7B

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First-time campers Leigh Sierra and her 4-year-old daughter Weslyn Sierra, of Harmony, look forward to the nature walk.

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Greenbrook’s Katerina Vergnais tries on a pair of solar eclipse glasses. “This is amazing,” she says.

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8B

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

Strut for scholarships

B

everly Allen and Be-Be Hansen have attended “quite a few” fashion shows together.

The friends have been members of the Palm-Aire Women’s Club for 25 years.

Hansen said she hasn’t had her widebrimmed black hat quite that long, but the former club president wore the statement piece to a least the past two year’s events.

On Feb. 23, the club held its annual fashion show and fundraiser. Proceeds benefit local nonprofit organizations, such as Mothers Helping Mothers and Second Chance Last Opportunity.

The funds also provide scholarships for students attending the State College of Florida and Manatee Technical College.

Event Co-chair Ann King said there’s one more thing people should know about the club: It’s not just for Palm Aire residents.

“You can live anywhere,” she said.

“It’s open to women all over the community. About 35% of our members are from outside of Palm Aire.”

The club has about 120 members, and 200 people attended the show. The fashions were provided by Darci Jacob, who owns Darci, a boutique on Main Street in Sarasota.

Club members and one scholarship recipient modeled designer clothes and accessories. The models wore huge smiles, waved to friends and stopped for hugs in between strutting and twirling around the room.

A mini-boutique was set up in the back of the ballroom so guests could shop after lunch. Clothes in the show were also for sale, but the models got first dibs. Guests received a 10% discount, and Jacob donated 10% of the day’s sales back to the club.

“Fashion should be fun, instill confidence and help empower women to feel great,” Jacob said.

— LESLEY DWYER

Photos by Lesley Dwyer

Co-chairs of this year’s fashion show are Ann King and Sherry Kenny.

Kay Kwenski is ready for happy hour with this colorful clutch bag. Her button down shirt is by David Cline.

Katherine Pike opens up this black clutch to reveal its secret message.

Joanne Harwell is one of eight models in the “Stepping Out” fashion show at the Palm Aire Country Club on Feb. 23.

Beverly Allen and Be-Be Hansen have been members of the Palm Aire Women’s Club for 25 years. Allen is the former club historian, and Hansen is a former club president.

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YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

ADVERTISEMENT

There’s a Lot More to Learn About Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson

9B

EXCLUSIVE OFFER FOR OBSERVER READERS

HAMILTON JEFFERSON VS

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Historian Louis Masur recounts rivalry between Hamilton, Jefferson during a recent lecture.

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YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

LAKEWOOD RANCH 7045 Portmarnock Place 6 Beds 6/2 Baths 8,663 Sq. Ft. Tina Ciaccio 941-685-8420 A4596573 $6,995,000

PALMETTO 1702 4Th Street E 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 3,004 Sq. Ft. Sandi Dietrich 941-704-0697 A4593681 $1,795,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 7908 Matera Court 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,585 Sq. Ft. Stacy Haas 941-587-4359 A4585511 $1,625,000

BRADENTON 4782 Mainsail Drive 4 Beds 4 Baths 4,458 Sq. Ft. Sandi Dietrich 941-704-0697 A4577352 $1,560,000

UNIVERSITY PARK 7331 Saint Georges Way 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,631 Sq. Ft. Stacy Haas 941-587-4359 A4591031 $1,449,000

UNIVERSITY PARK 8316 Abingdon Court 3 Beds 2/2 Baths 2,768 Sq. Ft. Barbara A Milian, PA 941-504-0660 A4599213 $1,324,900

LAKEWOOD RANCH 15321 Castle Park Terrace 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,522 Sq. Ft. Heidi Cox 941-685-1529 A4599205 $1,247,500

BRADENTON 4624 Barracuda Drive 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,886 Sq. Ft. Debbie Vogler 941-705-3328 A4598787 $999,000

BRADENTON 10115 Sandpiper Road E 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,651 Sq. Ft. Simone Schaerf 941-260-1550 A4591598 $850,000

PARRISH 5206 123rd Avenue E 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,867 Sq. Ft. Ray Rausa 941-228-7614 A4595293 $699,000

SARASOTA 322 Londonderry Drive 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,347 Sq. Ft. Deborah Angelo O'Mara 941-730-0777 A4596733 $689,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 6518 Oakland Hills Drive 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,940 Sq. Ft. Jamie Van Vliet & Chris Van Vilet 941-993-8996 A4596909 $649,999

SARASOTA 8336 Canary Palm Court 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,698 Sq. Ft. JJ Williams 941-412-6355 A4597477 $599,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 15331 Skip Jack Loop 4 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,083 Sq. Ft. Christopher Van Vliet & Jamie Van Vilet 941-993-7087 A4599909 $550,000

PARRISH 4209 Pine Meadow Drive 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,946 Sq. Ft. Stacy Haas 941-587-4359 A4599164 $525,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 12720 Sorrento Way 101 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,528 Sq. Ft. Deborah Angelo O'Mara 941-730-0777 A4599456 $525,000

SARASOTA 7271 Golf Pointe Way 2 Beds 2 Baths 2,156 Sq. Ft. Beth Ann Boyer 941-780-6606 A4597140 $499,500

BRADENTON 13737 Messina Loop 104 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,528 Sq. Ft. Deborah Angelo O'Mara 941-730-0777 A4596809 $495,000

PALMETTO 3212 77th Court E 4 Beds 2 Baths 2,121 Sq. Ft. Mark Boehmig 941-807-6936 A4599419 $480,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 5557 Coachwood Cove 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,333 Sq. Ft. Barbara A Milian, PA 941-504-0660 A4581085 $449,000

BRADENTON 334 Gris Sky Lane 4 Beds 2 Baths 1,767 Sq. Ft. Aaron Corr 941-840-2346 A4592458 $424,000

PARRISH 10819 High Noon Trail 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,846 Sq. Ft. Debbie Vogler 941-705-3328 A4599578 $410,000

BRADENTON 17118 Vardon Terrace 406 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,142 Sq. Ft. Sandi Dietrich 941-704-0697 A4594442 $369,500

LAKEWOOD RANCH 7120 Cedar Hollow Circle 102 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,352 Sq. Ft. Carol Stewart 941-290-9150 A4594445 $365,000

PARRISH 7814 111th Terrace E 4 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,868 Sq. Ft. Christopher Van Vliet & Jamie Van Vilet 941-993-7087 A4583027 $3,300

LAKEWOOD RANCH 8355 Catamaran Circle 3 Beds 3 Baths 3,567 Sq. Ft. Stacy Haas 941-587-4359 A4599176 $2,695,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 15003 Camargo Place 4 Beds 4 Baths 4,042 Sq. Ft. Tina Ciaccio 941-685-8420 A4598073 $2,425,000

BRADENTON 22230 E State Road 64 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,031 Sq. Ft. Stacy Haas 941-587-4359 A4596938 $2,200,000

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM

419906-1

10B

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

RESEARCH EDITOR

A

home in Riverdale topped all transactions in this week’s real estate. Harry and Patricia Jo Acker, of Waddell, Arizona, sold their home at 4007 Hawk Island Drive to Daniel and Sharon Schmitt, of Glen Allen, Virginia, for $2,975,000.

Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, five-and-ahalf baths, a pool and 5,758 square feet of living area.

It sold for $1,975,000 in 2019.

COUNTRY CLUB

Joshua Paul Oakes Laurianne Alexandra Jackson and Daniel Ryan Oakes, trustees, of Kansas City, Kansas, sold the home at 13711 Red Rock Place to Samuel Mateer, trustee, of Lakewood Ranch, for $1,795,000. Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,784 square feet of living area.

It sold for $1.15 million in 2019.

Larry and Barbara Clemons, trustees, of Lakewood Ranch, sold the home at 7609 Silverwood Court to Deborah Vainieri and Humberto Vainieri, of Lakewood Ranch, for $1,025,000. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,616 square feet of living area.

WINDWARD

Neal Communities of Southwest Florida LLC sold the home at 2499 Star Apple Way to Michael Steven Wentzel and Jennifer Adele Wentzel, of New York City, for $1,434,000. Built in 2023, it has five bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,711 square feet of living area.

Neal Communities of Southwest Florida LLC sold the home at 2549 Paradise Plum Drive to Gary Edward Gronfors and Cindy Sorensen, of Sarasota, for $1,121,300. Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,700 square feet of living area.

John and Frances Kerekes sold their home at 7207 River Club Blvd. to Michael and Lindsey Slewidge, of Bradenton, for $975,000. Built in 1996, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,094 square feet of living area.

Long Term Capital Partnership VI LLC sold the home at 7547 Tori Way to Julie and Gary Goodwin, of Bradenton, for $910,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three-and-ahalf baths, a pool and 4,098 square feet of living area.

RYE WILDERNESS ESTATES

Gregory Wayne Thompson and Catherine Thompson, trustees, of Denver, North Carolina, sold the home at 207 167th Blvd. E. to Gerard and Lisa McCool, of Bradenton, for $950,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,800 square feet of living area. It sold for $559,900 in 2020.

Liz Ramos

WOODLEAF HAMMOCK

Gregory John Brindza and Yesenia Brindza, of Bradenton, sold their home at 11512 Apple Tree Circle to Keith Brian Leo and Julie Anne Leo, of Orchard Park, New York, for $915,000. Built in 2021, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,299 square feet of living area. It sold for $522,800 in 2021.

RIVERDALE REVISED

Phong Vo and Jennifer Ho, of Bradenton, sold their home at 4715 Spinnaker Drive to Keith and Christina Nierodzinski, of Sarasota, for $828,000. Built in 1999, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,051 square feet of living area. It sold for $805,000 in 2021.

DEL WEBB

Thomas and Linda O’Halloran, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their home at 18003 Manchester Place to James and Elaine Schipper, of Bradenton, for $815,000. Built in 2021, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,126 square feet of living area. It sold for $601,300 in 2021.

TREYMORE AT THE VILLAGES OF PALM AIRE

Richard and Hua Lipke, of Sarasota, sold their home at 7122 Treymore Court to Stanley Dziedzic Jr. and Mary Ellen Sokol, of Saddle Brook, New Jersey, for $760,000. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,523 square feet of living area. It sold for $580,000 in 2019.

ESPLANADE

Neal Communities of Southwest Florida LLC sold the home at 2918 Butterfly Jasmine Trail to Gary Williams Skaats and Andrea Carlson, of Holbrook, New York, for $508,400.

Built in 2023, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,527 square feet of living area.

SAPPHIRE POINT

Philip and Linda Box, trustees, of Parrish, sold the home at 5410 Tidewater Preserve Blvd. to Wayne and Carol Hoffman, of Cortez, for $1.25 million. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, three-andtwo-half baths, a pool and 3,459 square feet of living area. It sold for $640,300 in 2016.

MALLORY PARK

Matthew and Kelly Edwards, of Sarasota, sold their home at 12317 Portsmouth Terrace to Lisa Marie Renn, of Milford, Ohio, for $1,032,500. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,483 square feet of living area. It sold for $900,000 in 2022.

GREYHAWK LANDING

Randy and Margaret Paul, of Venice, sold their home at 315 Blackbird Court to Ronald Mark Schafer and Kimberly Grace Schafer, of Bradenton, for $1.03 million. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,251 square feet of living area. It sold for $462,000 in 2015.

FEB. 12-16

RIVER CLUB SOUTH

Neal Communities of Southwest Florida LLC sold the home at 2488 Star Apple Way to Michael Kruter and Yalene Kruter, trustees, of Bellmore, New York, for $761,000.

Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,066 square feet of living area.

TIDEWATER PRESERVE

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

Kenneth and Noreen Duronio, trustees, sold the home at 5059 Serata Drive to Janeen Graf, of Bradenton, for $626,000. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,920 square feet of living area.

It sold for $345,600 in 2014.

Gregory and Cathleen Compa, of Sarasota, sold their home at 6114 Bluestar Court to Jonathan Michael Kelley and Lindsey Ryann Godwin, of Lakewood Ranch, for $569,900.

Built in 2021, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,334 square feet of living area. It sold for $534,300 in 2021.

This Country Club home at 13711 Red Rock Place sold for $1,795,000. It has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,784 square feet of living area.

DEL TIERRA

Khadijah Attallah, of Bradenton, sold her home at 306 Gris Sky Lane to Jim Jean Francois and Tamar Noella Jean Louis, of Bradenton, for $480,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,505 square feet of living area. It sold for $266,000 in 2017.

Maria Rodriguez-Gnos, of Myakka City, sold her home at 15211 Peaceful Bull Place to Kieran Mills, of Broad Channel, New York, for $391,500. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,505 square feet of living area.

It sold for $248,000 in 2016.

WHITEBRIDGE COURT

Bernd Ferber and Birgit SchraderFerber, trustees, sold the home at 7717 Whitebridge Glen to Alexander Farkes, of Chicago, for $480,000.

Built in 1994, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,609 square feet of living area. It sold for $265,000 in 2014.

ONLINE See more transactions at YourObserver.com

In with the new NOW TAKING CONTRACTS

DOWNTOWN SARASOTA SOTA Residences & Hotel | 941.462.3900 | From $1.8M | Visit the Main Street Gallery | thesota.com

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

DOWNTOWN ST. PETERSBURG 400 Central | 727.209.7848 | From the $900,000s | Call for an appointment | Residences400central.com

MOVE-IN SPRING 2024

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

GOLDEN GATE POINT

LONGBOAT KEY

WINGSPAN WAY AT TARA

Julie and Timmy Schiller, of Denver, sold their home at 6205 Wingspan Way to Jizzel Anne De Leon and Derick Paul De Leon, of Bradenton, for $565,000. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,771 square feet of living area.

It sold for $294,000 in 2020.

LAKEHOUSE COVE AT WATERSIDE

HBT at Waterside LLC sold the home at 8104 Sternway Road to Michael Flannelly and Kevin Christopher Flannelly, of Roxbury Township, New Jersey, for $520,800.

Built in 2023, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,810 square feet of living area.

En Pointe | 941.685.1598 | enpointesarasota.com | From $2,775,000

The Residences at the St. Regis | 941.213.3300 | SRResidencesLongboatKey.com

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

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

LONGPOND AT MOTE RANCH

Steven Warren, trustee, of Seminole, sold the home at 6923 Superior St. Circle to Richard Bradford Smith and Satin Liumei Latimer, of Sarasota, for $495,000. Built in 1996, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,582 square feet of living area. It sold for $131,100 in 1996.

MichaelSaunders.com/New-Homes | 844.591.4333 | Sarasota, Florida Prices as of November 2023

419902-1

ADAM HUGHES

REAL ESTATE

Riverdale home tops sales at $2,975,000

11B

12B

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

Church 2024 SPRING LUNCH & LEARN A Premier Event of the Season!

Sunday, March 17, 2024 12:00 – 1:30 p.m.

Michael’s On East, Sarasota Only $39 Includes Lecture & Luncheon!

TED DEUTCH AJC Chief Executive Officer, Edward and Sandra Meyer Office of the CEO

The State of Jewish Affairs: Around the World with AJC There is never a dull moment for the Jewish people and the State of Israel.

Join us for an in-depth conversation as we tackle some of the most challenging current events and how they are impacting our community.

EVENT CHAIRS

David & Edie Chaifetz • Joel & Gail Morganroth • The Benderson Family

Advanced Reservations Required!

SPONSORED BY

420604-1

To RSVP: Online at: AJC.org/sarasota/spring2024 Or Email: sarasota@ajc.org Or Call AJC: 941.365.4955

FROM PAGE 1B

The challenges kept coming for Mark Albritton as Hurricane Ian tore through Myakka City in September 2022.

A month before Hurricane Ian hit, Mark Albritton had a deck built on the back of the church. He envisioned the deck could be used for outside activities, children’s performances and sunrise Easter service.

A few parishioners found shelter in the church’s fellowship hall during Hurricane Ian. Although they sent videos of the damage to Mark Albritton, they still didn’t prepare him for what he would see driving up to the church.

The hurricane ripped off a large part of the roof and blew out the front wall, exposing the interior and saturating the floor and everything inside. Much of what was inside, such as the piano and books, were destroyed.

Trees all around the church had fallen.

Despite the damage, the church remained standing.

“It looked like a war zone,” Mark Albritton said. “I shed some tears that day, but I knew that faith has to kick in and you have to believe God protected it.”

He said the new deck was a blessing as it served as a buttress that kept the church from collapsing.

It was time again for Mark Albritton to lead the church through renovations, but as always with the church, people came first. He decided the congregation would focus on helping others in the community who were greatly impacted by the hurricane before starting renovations on the building.

In return, the community supported the church as it began renovations in fall 2023. Once repairs began, the congregation was able to complete them in January.

Before the renovation, the church had a singular platform stage at the front for the pulpit, but two more panels were added to the platform to widen it.

After four years of leading Sandy

Liz Ramos

“It looked like a war zone. I shed some tears that day, but I knew that faith has to kick in and you have to believe God protected it.”

— Mark Albritton

Baptist Church into a future that balances respecting the past and embracing what’s ahead, Mark Albritton said he had to make the difficult decision to step down as the pastor.

He was working for the U.S. Postal Service six days per week and preaching on Sundays. The demands of his job and the church left little time for him to be with his family.

As hard as it was, Albritton said he had to put his family first and hope the next pastor would keep Sandy Baptist Church on its path.

Josh Richter became the pastor Jan. 1. He said God will provide guidance as the church moves forward.

As for Mark Albritton, he said he will always remain connected to the church.

“It was a big decision...” he said.

“It’s hard to let go. I still feel that my days here aren’t done. I do hope to come back someday.”

Shopping + Dining + Events Lakeside at Waterside Place

Start your day with a latte before squeezing in a spa treatment and an afternoon of shopping. Gather with friends and family for dinner and drinks along the water and under the stars. You'll find new ways to enjoy the day whenever you're here.

And now, with our Beverages in the Street program, you can take your adult beverage to-go as you explore Waterside Place.

WatersidePlace .com

419088-1

Sarasota’s Only Lakefront Town Center | 1561 Lakefront Drive, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34240

Although the church underwent a renovation after damages from Hurricane Ian, Sandy Baptist Church congregants worked to ensure it stayed true to its rustic charm to preserve history.

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

Elite Hearing Centers

13B

OUR PROFESSIONAL STAFF OF DOCTORS OF AUDIOLOGY & LICENSED HEARING AID SPECIALISTS

of America

Rated

OVER 50 LOCATION NATIONW S IDE!

OPEN NOW: SARASOTA (941) 667-2577 2807 University Pkwy In Publix Plaza at University Walk

BRADENTON (941) 667-2574 2001 Manatee Avenue E. Ste 104 (Bradenton Pain and Wellness Center)

DELRAY BEACH (561) 453-2734 4900 Linton Blvd #3 (In between Poppies Restaurant and Kristi Cleaners)

BOYNTON BEACH (561) 453-2735 4739 N Congress Ave (In between Dollar Tree and Fon Shan Chinese)

JUPITER (561) 453-2738 6725 West Indiantown Rd Bay 39 (In Jupiter West Plaza)

1Patient will receive $100 gift card upon completion of hearing instrument trial. Not all models are suitable for a free trial (e.g., custom-fitted models such as CIC, IIC, and Virto Black). Complimentary hearing evaluation required. Must have a tested hearing loss. Open to adults 18+ years and older. One gift card per customer, per year. Not valid with managed care or state insurance plans. No cash alternative. Must provide a valid email address for gift card redemption. Please allow 2-4 weeks for delivery of the gift card. 2Buy one Lumity hearing aid at our list price and get another of the same make & model 50% off. Discount is based on binaural purchase. This limited-time offer may not be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion.

New orders only. Private pay only (not combinable with insurance or network). Not available on all levels of technology. 3On in-store purchases of $200+ in with the CareCredit credit card through the end of the month. Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date if the promotional purchase is not paid in full within 24 months. Minimum monthly payments required. Subject to credit approval. Offers expire 3/1/24.

419806-1

We offer 0% interest financing for 24 months!3

14B

YourObserver.com

WEATHER

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH

FORECAST THURSDAY, FEB. 29

SUNRISE / SUNSET Sunrise Sunset

High: 83 Low: 65 Chance of rain: 10%

FRIDAY, MARCH 1 High: 83 Low: 65 Chance of rain: 9%

Thursday, Feb. 29

6:54a

6:30p

Friday, March 1

6:53a

6:31p

Saturday, March 2

6:52a

6:31p

Sunday, March 3

6:51a

6:32p

Monday, March 4

6:50a

6:32p

Tuesday, March 5

6:49a

6:33p

Wednesday, March 6

6:49a

6:33p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, MARCH 2 High: 82 Low: 64 Chance of rain: 20%

March 3 Last

March 10 New

March 16 March 25 Quarter Full

SUNDAY, MARCH 3

Monday, Feb. 19

0.94

Tuesday, Feb. 20

0

Wednesday, Feb. 21

0

Thursday, Feb. 22

0

Friday, Feb. 23

0

RAINFALL

High: 82 Low: 64 Chance of rain: 47%

Saturday, Feb. 24

Gordon Silver took this photo of a buck taking a morning walk in Del Webb.

0.06 0

Sunday, Feb. 25

*Rainfall totals from Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport

Submit your photos at YourObserver.com/contests. All submissions will be entered for the 2023-24 Weather and Nature photo contest. In February 2024, you will vote for your favorite photo, and the submission with the most votes will win a $500 gift card.

YEAR TO DATE: 2024 7.57 in.

2023 1.58 in.

MONTH TO DATE: 2024 3.26 in.

2023 0.15 in.

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crossword

celebrity cipher

LIVING IN THE PAST by Ricky Sirois, edited by Jeff Chen

DOWN 1 Neighborhood in NYC or

61 Mantra chants 62 UFO pilots 63 Gainesville collegians

4 Classic

65 College QB, stereotypi-

D NTYCF SYPVS PV JKU CTYVS

5 Tease

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6 This, that or the other 7 Further down?

67 “___girl!”

8 Some members of Parlia-

69 Actor Shepard of “Par-

ment

enthood”

9 “You may be ___ some-

70 Willing to give it a go

thing!”

73 Plant part

10 Prefix with “thermal”

76 Follow, as at a job

13 Subsequently

81 Against

14 Area at a racetrack

82 Film unit

15 Captivate

83 When the Battle of

16 Martin Scorsese, for one

Normandy began

17 Important element in

85 Cuban line dance

making a paper airplane

86 Tool used on maple trees

18 Drove, as cattle

87 Jazz musician Baker

24 Source of metal

88 ___ California (Mexican

25 St. Kitts and ___ (Carib-

state)

bean country)

90 Type of drum

30 Campsite remnants 33 Totally off-base, informally

ties (Abbr.)

the mall?

98 With jocularity

1 “Laughter in the Rain”

36 Partner in marriage

71 Bit of pageant wear

100 Sitting still

singer Neil

38 Tight undergarment

72 French artist Henri

7 Online journal

41 *Flambeed fondue?

74 Used to be

11 Comedic act

43 Grp. for physicians

75 Up-to-the-minute

101 Awesome, in dated slang 37 Most likely to sunburn, 102 Very early maybe

14 Princess in the Mario

44 Experimental location

77 Pawns on a chessboard,

106 Despise

franchise

46 Simple tops

e.g.

108 Fruit used in gin

19 Starting point

47 Christmas carol

78 Topmost figure

109 Small part of a yard

20 Solo

48 *Result of giving Light-

79 Anxiety about exclusion,

113 Type of chair named for

21 “Not again!”

year new batteries?

for short

its creator

22 Harden (to)

51 High-security clearance

80 Listened to

115 *Did physical therapy on

23 *Got a piercing?

56 Shopping jag

84 One in a cast

the water?

26 Home run, slangily

57 Let out

87 *Sign at a nudist colony? 119 Secret supply

105 Attire for some queens

27 Home to the Nobel Peace 58 Word after “lost” or “fine” 89 What a drawbridge might 120 Spanish gold 121 Honolulu’s island span 59 Boost Center 28 Mulligan

60 Emotionless

90 Loafer, for one

122 Ascended, as a rocket

29 Justice Kagan

62 ___ Claire, WI

91 Unhappy

123 On edge

31 Lake near Las Vegas

63 “Can we talk, real quick?” 92 English breakfast, e.g.

32 Winter clothing option

65 Worn out

93 *Secured a loan with a

125 Mardi ___

35 Many Monopoly proper-

68 *Extracted bargains at

first-edition Thoreau?

126 Renter

124 Nine-digit fig.

34 “You bet!”

35 Flabbergasted

38 Goes on and on 39 “My turn” 40 Motorola phone brand 41 Hide’s partner 42 Own up (to) 45 ___ Jean King (tennis legend) 46 Financial hostilities 49 More punchy, flavorwise 50 Symbol of control 51 “The One,” romantically

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IBERBP BPKGEJVP

“FOHU R FXN X WRA, ZV IXKOHG ...

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79 Sustenance

HUVVPMUT STDVJ

Puzzle Two Clue: Y equals P

12 “So much for that idea”

“PJ’X LUJJUT JY CDAG DAYVU, JKDV CPJK

Puzzle One Clue: M equals F

11 Cone-shaped corn snacks 78 They’re similar to similes

©2023 Universal Uclick

By Luis Campos Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present.

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

London

2 Greek equivalent of Cupid 64 Midwestern slang word expressing surprise 3 Common pickle flavor

ACROSS

417955-1

at MANASOTA FLOORING INC

© 2023 NEA, Inc.

93 Most inclusive 94 Commercial fee 95 Alpaca cousins 96 Break down, as food 97 Debate after a debate 99 They sometimes come in blocks 102 Hello, in 121-Across

sudoku

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

103 Doughnut shape 104 Actress and activist Ruby 107 Frat members 108 Feature of the Texas state flag 110 It’s most useful after being broken 111 Rock band Motley ___ 112 Pump up

52 Humble

114 Reluctant to engage

55 Alphabet area?

Cup

53 Civil rights pioneer Parks 116 Tail ... or one with a tail 117 Org. awarding the Grey 54 Nights before 58 Contented sigh

118 Flamenco dancer’s cry ©2023 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

2-29-24

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

RED PAGES INFORMATION & RATES: 941-955-4888

Open House

DEADLINES: Classifieds - Monday at Noon

OPEN HOUSE Sunday March 3rd 12-2pm Beautiful Lakewood Ranch Pool Home!

4 Bed & 3 Bath + Loft 12022 Forest Park Circle

The East County Observer reserves the right to classify and edit copy, or to reject or cancel an advertisement at any time. Corrections after first insertion only. *All ads are subject to the approval of the Publisher. *It is the responsibility of the party placing any ad for publication in the East County Observer to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance with towncodes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property Notice: All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis..

Garage/ Moving/ Estate Sales

Merchandise Wanted

Beige fabric rocker recliner. $50.

Round patio table. $40.

Call 941-756-5079 CHIPPENDALE STYLE arm chairs. Vintage mahogany, newly upholstered seats. 24” x 40” high.

941-351-3166

WANTED TO BUY Vintage/Old Costume Jewelry & Clothing in large amounts. Jane (941) 356-1568

SOFA - 3 cushion. 82”. Matching toss pillows. $100. 941-355-9057

Sporting Goods

WOMANS EASTON DIRT BIKE. Several speeds; Mountain rack, bike rack & air pump $150 (941) 753-8359

SPRING CRAFT SHOW

Saturday, March 2nd 9 a.m. - Noon

Antiques/ Collectibles EMILINE’S ANTIQUE MALL MARCH SIDEWALK SALE. 15 vendors will have special items for sale at our 2nd annual sidewalk sale on March 16th from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. or until items sold. For most vendors it will be cash only so come prepared for bargains!

Emiline’s will also be open.

GARAGE & MOVING SALE Saturday March 02, 8:00 AM-2:00 PM Rain or Shine 22829 63rd Ave E Zero turn mower, saddles, tools frig, and many more items

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

Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421.

SELL YOUR STUFF FAST!

GARAGE SALE CALL 941-955-4888

BEACH’ N RIDES Electric Bike Shop!

BEACH’ N RIDES eBike Sales and Rentals BEACH’Bike N RIDES Electric Shop!

Ride easy on an eBike with Electric eBike SalesBike andShop!

Rentals as much exercise or eBike Sales andeBike Rentals Ride easy on an with assistance as you want.

Rideaseasy onexercise an eBikeorwith much Leave traffic and parking as much exercise or assistance as you want. problems behind! assistance youparking want.

Leave trafficasand 13 models available.

Leave traffic and parking problems behind!

Daily and weekly behind!

13problems models available. rentals available aily andavailable. weekly 13Dmodels We also repair other Brands D reanitlyalasnadvawileaebklely Open re9 nrepair tto als5adaily vother ailabexcept lBrands e We also Sundays and holidays We also9repair otherexcept Brands Open to 5 daily 12208 Cortez Road, Open 9 to and 5 daily except Sundays holidays Cortez, FL Sundays and holidays 12208 Cortez Road, 12208 CortezFL Road, Cortez, Cortez, FL 941-251-7916, Ext 1 941-251-7916, Ext 1

1415 10th St W, Palmetto 941-729-5282

Garage/ Moving/ Estate Sales

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

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

Advertise as low as $17.50 per week!

Announcements

Ext 1

9412517916,

Explore *Connect* Ride Explore *Connect* Ride

FIND Explore *Connect* Ride BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

RED PAGES AD RATES First 15 words ................. $ 15.00 per week Each add’l word .......25¢

15% DISCOUNT FOR 4-WEEK RUN Color background: $ 5 per week Ad border: as low as $3 per week

YourObserver.com/RedPages

PLACE YOUR AD: Call: 941-955-4888 Email: RedPages@ YourObserver.com Online: YourObserver.com /RedPages

Homes for Sale 5 ACRES Lake Barn Near Fruitville I-75 Call for Price Bradenton: Condo, 2 bed, 2 bath$229,900 Pet friendly 55+ Sarasota: 3 Bed, 2 Bath, 1 Car Garage House $359,000 2/2 Condo Plantation Golf Club Venice, Call for Price Pool Home, New windows, hvac, Completely Updated $699,000 Brooke O’Malley | Club Realty Call 941-726-2677

ACTIVE SENIOR Fitness & Companion Active Senior Fitness & Companion offers small group training classes for seniors such as Tai Chi, Chair Yoga, Zumba Gold, Strength & Balance and more! A single class is just $25, and discounts on packages. Our class size is limited to just 12 participants so everyone gets individualized attention. We also offer private personal training (in person and online). All programs are personalized to specifically meet your individual needs and abilities. Because of the class size restriction, we ask that you book ahead online at: Activeseniorfitness.com (941) 752-1200

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

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

Cleaning

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE! Vacation/ Seasonal Rentals FAIRWAY BAY 1,300 SQ.FT., 2 bed, 2 bath (en suite) furnished condominium w/ w/d, sleeps 6. Extended patio. Direct water views of downtown Sarasota.

Pool, fitness room, beach club included. Available May - Dec 2024 . $5,500/month. Jan - April 2025. $7,500/ month. No Pets.

Call 941-545-4471

RED PAGES IN PRINT AND ONLINE

A POWERFUL COMBINATION 941-955-4888

YourObserver.com/RedPages

BRAZILIAN CLEANING Service

by Maria. Residential. Meticulous Cleaning. Excellent References.

Free Estimates. Reliable. Lic./Ins. 941-400-3342. www.braziliancleaningbymk.com

Handyman Services REMODELING CONTRACTOR. 30+ yrs experience - all phases remodeling. Working in & around Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, Bradenton. Lic./Insured.

Call Joe: 941-929-3000

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

Wallpaper installation & removal, pressure washing. Residential & commercial, condos.

Honest & reliable.

Free estimates. 941-744-1020.

35+ years experience.

SARASOTA INTERIOR PAINTING HIGH-END INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING WE ARE THE BEST!!!

Residential & Commercial.

Fully Insured.

CALL or TEXT Don 941-900-9398

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers

This week’s Crossword answers

Puzzle One Solution: “It’s better to walk alone, than with a crowd going in the wrong direction.”

Jennifer Grant Puzzle Two Solution: “My mission is to leave behind me the kind of impression that will make it easier for those who follow.”

Marian Anderson Puzzle Three Solution: “When I was a kid, my father ... didn’t think I would amount to anything. My mother also.”

Architect Frank Gehry

This week’s Sudoku answers

©2023 Universal Uclick

YourObserver.com/RedPages

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

Please call Marc: 941-321-0707

Horseshoe Cove RV Resort Clubhouse 5100 60th St. E. Bradenton

941-955-4888

CASH FOR YOUR CAR We come to you!

Ho Ho Buys cars.

941-270-4400.

Visit the RED PAGES

Adult Care Services

As low as $17.50 per week!

Autos Wanted

You’re only cheating yourself.

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

Ad runs 2 consecutive weeks in 1 Observer.

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

GARAGE SALE

real estate

Items Under $200

NOW HIRING LANDSCAPE MANAGER / Bachelor's any field / 12 Mo. Exp. / $59,446 Year / RES:FLORIDA LANDSCAPING AND PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, INC, 5217 22 ST CT E, BRADENTON, FLORIDA, 34203

auto

OUR ONLINE TOOLS MAKE IT EASY TO PLACE YOUR AD

Help Wanted

peekers’ place

stuff

YARD SALE: March 1st & 2nd 8-2PM 2807 S Duette Rd., Myakka City. Household items, pet supplies, tools, toys, collectibles, baked goods & more.

Proceeds benefit Farmhouse Sanctuary

jobs

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

CALL 941-955-4888 / YourObserver.com/RedPages

©2023 NEA, Inc.

redpages@yourobserver.com • yourobserver.com/redpages

home services

Made for where you live. Here!

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

Aluminum

Computer

Health

Is Your Computer Feeling Sick?

GET YOUR LIFE BACK!

Let Us Fix It!

Call A Geek

Do You Have Neck or Low Back Pain?

Do You Want To Avoid Surgery?

Computer ServiCeS

Dustin Yoder

(941) 351-7260

Dustin Owner Yoder/ Operator

941.650.9790 941.650.9790 call-a-geek.net YoderAluminum.com

419984

Owner /Insured Operator Insured

YoderAluminum.com

Attorney

Computer Repair & Service Virus & Malware Removal / Protection New System Set Up / Data Transfer Networking: Wired/Wireless Installation Data Recovery / Remote Support One-On-One Tutoring / Training

Give Us a Call - We Can Help

420664

“Specializing inin6” Gutters” “Specializing 6” Seamless Seamless Gutters”

FREE CONSULTATION 941.358.2224 Recognized Among the Best Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Physicians in America

Over 19 yrs serving Manatee/Sarasota Counties

Board Certified in the specialty of non-surgical spinal decompression

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

Divorce without Lawyers

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

Divorce is never fun, but it does not have to be nasty & hateful! Protect your family relationships and assets from expensive Court litigation. Consider Divorce Mediation, the peaceful alternative.

DR. DAVID CIFRA, DC

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

Midtown Medical Park 1215 S. East Ave. Suite 210 Sarasota, FL 34239

www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.com

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

Pegatronics.com 419986

941-735-3362

Call me for a free 30 minute consultation before you call a Divorce Lawyer!

Home Services

Doors

Sliding Glass Door Repair

We have mediated divorces involving up to 10 million dollars of assets over past 27 years.

Are You Having Dryer Difficulties?

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

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

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

Residential

William J. Leininger, JD

Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator 677 N. Washington Blvd Sarasota, FL 34236 SarasotaDivorceMediator.com 941-727-5555

941-705-5468

Commercial

419930

420654

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

420656

“FIX IT - DON’T REPLACE”

Auto Service

ALL PHASES OF INTERIOR & EXTERIOR REMODELING Kitchen - Bathrooms | Windows - Doors - Floor Coverings | Repairs

SELL YOUR CAR!

Patio Furniture Repairs.com

WE COME TO YOU

941-504-0903

Furniture Repair 419988

941-526-5396 | tomtka@tampabay.rr.com www.tkahomeservicesinc.com Licensed & Insured | License #CBC1256062

Furniture Sales & Repairs Cushions • Slings • Re-powdercoating

Home Watch

420652

FAST • EASY • SAFE

941.270.4400

419981

16B

FREE PICKUP / DELIVERY • FREE ONSITE QUOTES

5-Star Rated

Trust, Reliability, Communication, Transparency.

Handyman 420655

HoHoBuysCars.com

Member of MANATEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

420665

Cleaning

MC Organize Vange Solutions LLC

JOE DAVIS HD LLC

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZER

• Handyman • Home Repairs & Remodeling • Fair Rates • Professional Service

DECLUTTERING • HOUSE CLEANING and More!

NO JOB TOO SMALL OR TOO BIG

941.260.2744 Celtichomewatch@4Him.cc Licensed, Bonded, & Insured

Licensed & Insured Over 30 Years FREE ESTIMATE

celtichomewatch.com

941-929-3000

Call Today for a FREE Estimate

Find anything in the RED PAGES

INTERIOR RENOVATIONS & ANYTHING FROM THE GROUND UP

TEXT OR CALL 574-354-7772 KEENS HANDYMAN SERVICES

419990

Doors

Kitchen/Bath Remodeling CALL BEFOREYOU YOU FALL CALL BEFORE FALL

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

GRAB BARS GRAB BARS COMPLETE INSTALLATION PACKAGE

249 235

* $ $235

$

INCLUDES22MOEN MOEN STAINLESS INCLUDES STAINLESS STEEL STEELANTI ANTISLIP SLIP CONCEALED PEEN CONCEALED SCREW SCREW GRAB GRAB BARS (16”BARS & 24”)(16” & 24”)

941.966.0333

Window Repairs • Sliding Glass Door Repairs Sliding Glass Door Deadbolts

LIFETIME GUARANTEE • LICENSED • BONDED • INSURED COVERAGEAREA: AREA:LAKEWOOD PARRISH TO NORTHPORT COVERAGE RANCH TO S. VENICE

364556 419931

941-955-4888

KEENS HANDYMAN SERVICES 420647

420663

(941) 527-8930

DRGRABBARS.COM

*DRILLING CHARGES MAY APPLY FOR MARBLE, GRANITE OR PORCELAIN. COUPON REQUIRED.

SHOWER & BATH MAKEOVERS

Call us today! 941.628.8579 419929

FREE IN-HOM ESTIMATEE S

420666

www.ezslider.com

Cleaned - Regrouted - Caulked - Sealed

Call John 941.377.2940

Free Estimates • Sarasota Resident Since 1974

www.showerandbathsarasota.com Find anything in the RED PAGES

941-955-4888

YourObserver.com

1/10/23, 10:25 AM

Kitchen/Bath Remodeling

Power Washing

Transportation

THE GRAB BAR GUY

ABRACADABRA PRESSURE CLEANING

BLACK LABEL CAR SERVICE

420659

Pressure Washing

10% off

Honesty, Integrity and Pride

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

Landscaping & Lawn

419946

Serving Sarasota/Manatee Area Since 2004

by Allison

AFTER

BEFORE

Call 941-955-4888 YourObserver.com/RedPages

941-544-1066 | scaperotta@aol.com Italian American Owned

Windows

Roofing

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

Serving Longboat Key Since 2005

Kenneth Fuhlman Inc. Building & Roofing Contractor

Allison J. Abizaid

Res. | Com. | Lic. | Ins.

419939

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

Gardener On Call LANDSCAPING • LANDSCAPE CLEANUP • PRUNING • WEEDING Flowers, Palms, Container Gardening, Tree Trimming

Formerly known as Sunrise Windows

941-626-3194

419925

CALL 941-302-3933

Licensed & Insured CCC - 058059 CBC - 1253936

Screening

Painting

150

25 $

STANDARD WINDOWS

UNIQUE PAINTING & PRESSURE WASHING SERVICES

INCLUDING SCREENS, TR ACKS, MIRRORS & FANS

420667

Complete Interior & Exterior Painting MAKING HOUSES BEAUTIFUL SINCE 1987 FREE ESTIMATES - Call Joel, Owner 35 Years Exp. Cell 619-405-7650 Home/Office 941-758-4840

SPECIAL 00 5

Plumbing

$

Mark’s Plumbing Service 419948

Small plumbing repairs. Replace toilets, faucets, water filters, water softeners and repair leaks.

RELIABLE • INSURED

941-920-8221

UP TO

CREATE BUZZ!

Advertise your business in the Red Pages. Call 941-955-4888

HEROES found here.

Relax. You’ve got better things to do.

Find a professional here in the Red Pages.

RED PAGES Made for where you live. Here!

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

senior citizen discount. www.sunsetwindowcleaningsrq.com

PURIFIED WATER WINDOW CLEANING AVAIL ABLE!!

Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES 941- 284 - 5880

420660

GARDENS 941-400-0431 • gbyallison@yahoo.com • gardensbyallison.com

1/1

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420658

419932

Licensed & Insured

Personal Gardening Services | Designer

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CREATE BUZZ!

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Airports, Concerts, Dinners & Cruises www.towncarservicebradenton.com 410036

419941 391220

941-248-4734

Insured I Free Estimates

Pressure Washing

chrome_qrcode_1671726737617.png

Luxury for Less

Houses | Cages | Decks Driveways | Roofs | Paver Sealing Douglas | 941.405.5615 | Over 1 5 Years Experience

GLENN KROECKER

419947

17B

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

941.702.0437 | ShanahanLuxuryGroup@CBrealty.com | ShanahanLuxuryGroup.com

Top-Selling Lakewood Ranch Real Estate Team Family Business | Concierge Service | Proven Results

Kenneth Shanahan, PLLC

Katina Shanahan, PLLC

Tyler Shanahan, PLLC

941.702.0443

941.702.0437

941.961.8205

Featured Property New Listing | 7992 Grande Shores Drive $1,925,000 | 3,083 Square Feet | 4 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | Den | Premium Lake Home Site

14512 Stirling Drive Country Club East

14921 Derna Terrace Azario

New Price! | Open House March 3 1pm - 4pm

$835,000 | 2,176 Square Feet 3 Bedrooms | 2.5 Bathrooms Office | Private Pool

17823 Northwood Place Del Webb

RECORD-BREAKING SALE

$2,065,000 | 4,457 Square Feet 4 Bedrooms | 4 Full and 2 Half Bathrooms 3-Car Garage | Golf-Deeded Home

SOLD

$1,330,00 | 2,808 Square Feet 4 Bedrooms | 3.5 Bathrooms Private Pool/Spa | Lake Homesite

“We strongly recommend the Coldwell Banker Realty’s Shanahan Luxury Group when it is time to sell your home or buy a new home. They are very professional, knowledgeable, and results oriented.

Through their efforts, I was able to sell my home in 4 days at a record high price. Additionally, they were very helpful as far as navigating me through the selection of my new home in Lakewood Ranch. I give them a strong A+ for all around excellence!” — Anthony and Anita, Country Club East, Lakewood Ranch

Scan or Call for Your Home Valuation 941.702.0437

Our Experience is Your Best Asset 413827-1

18B