LWR Life Magazine Winter 2019 by The Observer Group Inc.

LWR LIFE LAKEWOOD RANCH AREAâ€™S COMMUNITY, NATURE, STYLE WINTER 2019

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CONTENTS

WINTER 2019

FEATURES

62 14

LWR LIFE

AROUND THE WORLD Enjoy an array of global cuisine â€” without leaving Main Street.

ALL IN THE FAMILY How Lakewood Ranch became home for four generations of Braccianos.

IN VINO VERITAS Fiorelli Winery works to bring its passion to the public.

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DEPARTMENTS 20 FROM THE EDITOR

46 58

27 BUZZ The county eyes an ampitheater in its plans for Premier, the new LWRBA president discusses his goals and hockey debuts on The Ranch. 42 CLASS ACT One couple’s cocktail party makes a big impact for Tidewell Hospice. 46 CHARITY SNAPSHOT The Flight to the North Pole gives children facing life-threatening illnesses a Christmas to remember. 50 CALENDAR The area events you won’t want to miss.

36 87

58 STYLE Traveling for the holidays? These bags will keep you organized and looking good no matter where the destination. 87 HAVEN A private golf course. A tennis court. A wine room. And enough garage space for a car collection. See The Lake Club house that has it all. 98 ART AND ABOUT Looking for a place for some late-night fun? Try these hot spots for a great evening out. 102 THE JOLLY RANCHER Despite the muss and fuss, Christmas is still the best time of the year. 106 RANCH SCENE 114 PARTING GLANCE

LWR LIFE

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LAKEWOOD RANCH AREA’S COMMUNITY, NATURE, STYLE Publisher — Emily Walsh

EDITORIAL Executive Editor — Kat Hughes Managing Editor — Randi Donahue Design — Nicole Thompson Editor At Large — Lisa Barnott Contributors Su Byron, Dex Honea, Gabriel Jiva, Heidi Kurpiela, Bob Plunket, Harry Sayer, Eric Snider and Shellie Terry

ADVERTISING Director of Advertising — Jill Raleigh Associate Publisher — Lori Ruth Advertising Managers — Kathleen O’Hara and Penny DiGregorio Advertising Executives — Richeal Bair, Chrissy Guevera, Beth Jacobson, Jennifer Kane, Tina Kelly, Bob Lewis, Honesty Mantkowski, Laura Ritter and Toni Perren

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CONTACT LWR LIFE To submit story ideas or calendar listings, contact Kat Hughes at khughes@yourobserver.com. For advertising inquiries, call 366-3468.

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LWR Life is a quarterly publication of the Observer Media Group published in May, August, November and February in partnership with Schroeder-Manatee Ranch.

LWR LIFE

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

The Ranch magnet effect

Several generations of the Bracciano family come together for Sunday dinner. Although their roots are in Michigan, family members began trickling down, following each other to Florida, in the early 2000s.

f you’ve been following the news lately, you may know that several organizations that were previously considered Sarasota stalwarts have begun focusing their attention to the east. It all started with The Players Centre for Performing Arts’ bold announcement three years ago that it would sell the downtown location it has been in since 1936 to move to Lakewood Ranch’s new Waterside development. Then Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, long a fixture on City Island in Sarasota, decided to leave the city in favor of Nathan Benderson Park, where it plans to build a $130 million aquarium. Now, with the city of Sarasota denying Marie Selby Botanical Gardens’ redevelopment master plan, whispers

LWR LIFE

have observers looking to see if there’s room out east in which the gardens could bloom. It used to be that Lakewood Ranch was looked at as a sleepy bedroom community of its coastal brethren. Now, it is becoming a destination. Although these organizations certainly make that case, they’re just formalizing what a lot of us already know: Once word of the good life gets out, people flock to follow. We continually hear stories of people moving down from up north, finding their place in the sun, and then quickly watching their family migrate to join them. That’s exactly what happened with the Bracciano family, which now boasts four generations living in Lakewood Ranch (see Page 72). It started in the early 2000s, when dermatologist David Bracciano moved

from Michigan to set up his practice in Cooper Creek. Shortly after, his sister followed, which then precipitated more of the family moving south. Now there is a whole clan of them, which makes traditions like family meals and celebrations one of the most rewarding parts of their lives. Because, after all, living in a beautiful place is nice, but being able to share it with those you love is what makes it home. Now, I realize some of you might be thinking that you are more in favor of keeping paradise to yourself. With the holidays upon us, I give you this advice: Be careful who you invite to share your slice of heaven. They might just decide to stay. Kat Hughes Executive Editor

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Start your day with a workout in the fitness center, a soothing Tai Chi class, or a dip in the pool. Maybe you prefer the creative outlet of our woodworking shop or art studio. Join in on a game of bocce or a sit in on an educational lecture. There is so much to choose from, the possibilities are endless. And it is not just a possibility, but everyday life here at Plymouth Harbor. Enjoy a rich myriad of activities surrounded by spectacular views of Sarasota Bay. Come see for yourself – and get a new perspective on retirement living. Call us today for a tour of our award-winning campus, luxury accommodations and amenities.

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BUZZ

NEWS, HAPPENINGS AND PEOPLE

Hockey rolls into Lakewood Ranch Park. PAGE 36

Strike Up the Band Early plans have arisen for a ‘concert’-type venue in Lakewood Ranch.

What it will look like and when — or if — it gets built are questions that remain. BY ERIC SNIDER | CONTRIBUTOR

t’s an idea that could become a concept that could become a plan that might result in an amphitheater-stye concert venue in Lakewood Ranch. A facility of that sort has been included in the early stages of a master plan to build out the Manatee County-owned portion of Premier Sports Campus. The 17-acre project would also include a racket-sports complex, with an emphasis on pickleball courts,

UIH

LEIN

R OA

an aquatic center, a soccer complex, playgrounds, a training facility, a 25,000-square-foot gymnasium, a dog park and more. At this point, the only component that’s locked in is a 24,000-square-foot library that’s expected to break ground in spring 2020. The rest, officials stress, is still quite speculative. A work in progress. Part of a much larger — phased — master plan. A lot of moving parts. No guarantees. You get the idea.

The thing is that the county has developed a rough site map that tends to make the yet-to-be-named project a bit more tangible. And found on the eastern border of the “bubble map” is an intriguing space earmarked “Event lawn: 3.5 +/- acres, band shell, 19,000 seating capacity.” It’s literally right there in black and white. If you let your mind run a little wild, Continued on Page 30

Premier Park Master Bubble Plan 1. Future development parcel 2. Manatee County office facility 3. Public library 4. Softball complex 5. Baseball fields 6. Park maintenance facility

1 1

14 14

6 14

5 8

7. Racket complex 8. Gymnasium 9. Park and amenities 10. Event lawn: band shell, 19,000 seating capacity 11. Premier soccer complex north 12. Premier soccer complex south 13. Parking 14. Ponds 15. Aquatic center 16. Dog park and amenities

A N

G EL A

N D

PA R K W

Source: Ugarte + Associates

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Continued from Page 28 such a facility as specced on the plan would rival the size of MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheater outside Tampa, which has played host to some big music names. But don’t get too excited — or worried. A venue of that magnitude is not likely to happen. It would require enormous infrastructure, both physical and organizational, to hold, say, a Dave Matthews Band concert in Lakewood Ranch. A high-paid executive would have to be brought in to run the place. Traffic in and out could be a nightmare. So, probably, would parking. A massive stage and accompanying equipment would have to be put in. “Nineteen thousand capacity?” asked an incredulous Vanessa Baugh, who represents Lakewood Ranch on the Manatee County Commission. “I can tell you that has not been discussed. It would be very hard to handle in the space we’re talking about.” So a more modest event venue, then? Charlie Hunsicker, the county Parks & Natural Resources director, envisions something akin to the band shell at Sutton Park in Palmetto or the 400-capacity Mosaic Amphitheater on the Bradenton Riverwalk. (How’s that for a buzz kill?) John Osborne, deputy county commissioner for infrastructure and strategic planning, sees “a festival grounds with four or five stages that would accommodate everything from wandering musicians to amplified music. It’s what is available from the smallest New England towns to downtown Miami. It fits the scale and quality of the community.” (Less of a buzz kill — though Osborne did emphasize the future venue’s tentative status.) At this point, county officials appear bent on tamping down expectations. A timeline of 10 years or more, with the full project rolling out in phases, has been floated. Meanwhile, residents are in more of a hurry. “I like the plan, but I don’t like the timeline,” Lakewood Ranch resident Carol Lucas told the East County Observer during a plan feedback meeting in September. “I’d like it sooner than later. I know they’ve got to think it through, but I don’t want delays.” It’s not a matter of money. The available funds are there through impact fees, a half-cent sales tax earmarked for recreation and possibly, in Baugh’s view,

LWR LIFE

Creative commons

A 2019 version of the master plan (previous page) notes a band shell and lawn with a seating capacity of 19,000, which makes it comparable to the MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheater (above) just outside Tampa. Area leaders echo that a more modest-sized venue comparable to Mosaic Amphitheater on the Bradenton Riverwalk (left) would be a better fit.

tourist development taxes. Of course, those dollars trickle in over time. It’s more about priorities — what to build and in what sequence. By overwhelming consensus, the utmost desire (after the library) is a pickleball complex. “If there’s anything Lakewood Ranch residents want, it’s a library and pickleball courts,” Baugh declared. Osborne echoed that sentiment. Lakewood Ranch has no shortage of parks and recreational facilities, but it lacks an amphitheater for concerts and festivals. “Lakewood Ranch has entered the big leagues in terms of important and rapidly growing developments in the country,” Hunsicker says. “Anyone who’s come out of a New England town

recognizes the value of a town squaretype place where people can come together. And [the proposed venue] is not tied to one development or another but available for all residents of Manatee County to enjoy.” He thinks a concert-style facility will ultimately take shape on the Premier Sports Campus site. So do Baugh and Osborne, though Baugh is particularly bullish on it. “They’ve had concerts on the Premier Sports grounds before,” she says. “I saw the Doobie Brothers there, and it was fantastic.” So let’s hear it for some type of concert venue in Lakewood Ranch, so long as it’s set up in a way that doesn’t disturb the nearby neighborhoods, of course.

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BIZ BOON Q&A WITH DOM DIMAIO Six months into his post, Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance President and CEO Dom DiMaio checks in with LWR Life about his intentions to boost the support organization’s already thriving efforts. BY SHELLIE TERRY | CONTRIBUTOR

n the 14 years that Dominic DiMaio has lived in the area, he has made his mark not only in his role as division CEO - Central Florida at Synovus Bank but also as a board member for State College of Florida Sarasota-Manatee and multiple nonprofits. He also served most recently as the chair of the Bradenton Area Economic Development Corp., a role he relinquished when he accepted his new position as the president and CEO of the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance, which has seen a 15% membership increase since he took the helm in May. Like many Florida transplants, it was the beauty and opportunity of the area that lead DiMaio, his wife of 26 years, Rita, and their three children to plant their roots. Before we dive into business, tell us what brought you to Lakewood Ranch. Prior to moving to Lakewood Ranch, I came from the Philadelphia suburbs. I was working for more than 30 years Continued on Page 34

LWR LIFE

Dex Honea

Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance President and CEO Dominic DiMaio and his family recently moved from River Club to the Savanna community. The availability of amenities for truly connected and social living is why DiMaio says “Lakewood Ranch is winning.”

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Continued from Page 32 in banking finance, primarily on the commercial side. I was doing some work on the East Coast of Florida, and I was introduced to a man at Synovus. Around 2004 or 2005, he was telling me that Lakewood Ranch was the future of the market. I came to interview, and he took me to Siesta Key. I literally took a bag of sand home and asked my wife if this is where we want to live. We ended up in the River Club. And I understand you’re moving? We’ve made settlement in a community called Savanna; it’s a brand-new village concept. We went to a wine and cheese night and probably met 20 couples, and we haven’t even moved there yet. They have yoga programs and social programs, a bourbon night and a cigar night — all within the community center. That’s why we’re moving, and this is why I think Lakewood Ranch is winning. So in your position at LWRBA, what do you see as your primary purpose? My primary focus is revenue. My job ultimately is to make sure I’m talking to mid- and top-level members who are also sponsors to make sure they are getting reward for their dollars spent. Also attracting new sponsors. So it’s retaining sponsor dollars, growing sponsor dollars and growing membership. Beyond that, focusing on the community side. I believe in economic development. So connection through the community through economic development, Sarasota and Manatee, and the colleges, the workforce and nonprofit groups we support. I’m making sure we’re talking to the community and understanding what it needs and helping to deliver back some of that programming. How does LWRBA differ from similar organizations? Other member organizations have a dividing line. When you talk about a chamber, there’s Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice, maybe South Venice. We’re regional. Yes, we carry the Lakewood Ranch name, and we’ll continue to bring everything back to The Ranch. But our focus is to connect Lakewood Ranch to the community and the community to Lakewood Ranch. We’re out telling everyone: We want to help you grow, and it doesn’t matter where your business is. What is LWRBA’s geographic reach?

LWR LIFE

Liz Ramos

Dom DiMaio talks to Anna Clark, of Sirius Day Spa, and Ed Levins, of Village Bikes, while making his way to the different tents at the annual Lakewood Ranch Block Party and Club Day.

Venice to Bradenton, and we have a few members in St. Pete and Tampa. My office was in St. Pete for 10 years. Every month, I’m talking to businesses that I know are doing business down here, trying to get them to understand how involvement in the LWRBA would impact their business on the south side of their region.

doctors and the places you needed to go weren’t here the way they needed to be. But look at the past five years. Lakewood Ranch Medical has done two or three expansions. Intercoastal Medical Group, which was in a small little office, has built a whole new building. Then you have Sarasota Memorial coming in with medical centers. Suncoast Blood Bank is moving their What are the benefits for a business to headquarters to Lakewood Ranch and join the Business Alliance? 360 Orthopedic is moving their headPrimarily, our focus is to help businesses quarters to Lakewood Ranch. grow. If you’re a new business coming into the area, we help you get engaged Now that you’ve got six months or so and grow. If you’re an existing business, under your belt, how’s it going? how do we help you pick up that sup- My focus for the first six months was plemental business? We do it through really making sure that I engaged with connection and education in a couple the team. I think they’re feeling comdifferent ways. It’s not always provid- fortable that I’m not going to come ing a speaker who’s going to teach you in and make it 100% different. But I something. Sometimes it’s providing do come with the approach of saying: knowledge of what’s happening in your “We did things great — why? And what market that you may not have known. can we do different?” For example, we Another really important area is our had a program called “Executive BriefYoung Leaders Alliance. For any mem- ings.” But the people in the seats were ber who has an employee who is under not executives. They were senior level, 40 years old, they’re free to join YLA sometimes, but not executives. They and attend most Business Alliance are people trying to gain knowledge to events. My belief is that we should get better. So, we’re changing it to be be helping to build a future, which is called “LWRBA Leads.” where we struggle as an economy locally. We want them getting to know What does the Business Alliance have in one another, so they can do business store for 2020? together as they grow up in their re- We’re a member-run organization. The spective industries and have fun while committees have a lot to do here. I’m they’re doing it. pushing my programming committee to the next level. My focus will be: How What are some of the growing areas of do we take what we’ve delivered really business in Lakewood Ranch? well over the years and make it a little When I moved here, there was very bit better, a little bit more informative little commercial business within and more fun when it should be fun? Lakewood Ranch. Even some of the

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A new in-line hockey rink located in Lakewood Ranch Park, adjacent to Lakewood Ranch High School, is open to the public as programming details are considered.

Cooler than Ice H With the help of The Lightning Foundation, Manatee County adds another sweet amenity

to Lakewood Ranch’s outdoor recreation bag in the form of an in-line hockey rink. BY SHELLIE TERRY | CONTRIBUTOR 36

LWR LIFE

ockey might not seem like an obvious sport of choice for hot, sunny Florida, but in the past five years, The Lightning Foundation has taken over regional high school ice hockey programming and grown it to 17 teams playing in junior varsity leagues with 600 kids in the program. That burgeoning interest led to the next logical step: creating more opportunities where even the youngest players can take a shot at hockey. Many Lightning fans were already taking

their love of the sport to the street with pick-up roller hockey games, but street play definitely comes with limitations. With a grant from the Industry Growth Fund and funding by the National Hockey League Players Association, The Lightning Foundation launched a program to build 10 local 60-by-120-foot outdoor roller hockey rinks to help get kids — and others — to play. The program’s first rink opened in AuContinued on Page 38

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Continued from Page 36 gust at Lakewood Ranch Park, next to Lakewood Ranch High School. The second rink opened in October in Oldsmar. This was great news for Summerfield resident Jeremy Gunter, 30, who has followed the Lightning for five years and geared himself up with skates, sticks and balls to learn the game. “When this rink opened up, it was a great way to get outside and have some fun,” Gunter says. “I’ve been going to the rink by myself and practicing, and I’ve met a few people. We’ve been putting together a few pick-up games.” That’s exactly what Jay Feaster, the vice president of community hockey development from the Tampa Sports & Entertainment Division, had in mind. “Over the last five years, as a part of our ‘Build the Thunder’ program, we’ve given 100,000 Lightning-logo sticks and balls to 500 local schools in the surrounding five counties,” Feaster says. “From our perspective, we want to get sticks and balls into kids’ hands and get them playing. That’s our goal.” The “Build the Thunder 2.0” and “Connect the Thunder” initiatives will include the 10 rinks as well as league programming at each of them and at clinics to continue growing interest and perhaps lead to professional player recruitment. “We recognize that not everyone who plays street or ball hockey is going to gravitate to the ice,” Feaster says. “This is about getting people playing.” Plans for the Lakewood Ranch rink started more than two years ago. The initial concept was that SchroederManatee Ranch would donate land at the Premier Sports Campus for the rink. Yet things changed when SMR and Manatee Parks started considering how the rink activity might conflict with other sports league timing, and the logistics got challenging, says Charlie Hunsicker, the director of Manatee Parks & Natural Resources. “We felt it wouldn’t be conducive to have a hockey program on the same weekends as soccer games,” Hunsicker says. “So we said, ‘Why don’t we put the skate park in a park that’s already fully mature?’ And the Lightning said, ‘You’re right.’ Plus, placement near the high school made good sense with the students’ growing interest and established teams.” That change in plans didn’t stop

LWR LIFE

We recognize that not everyone who plays street or ball hockey is going to gravitate to the ice. This is about getting people playing.” JAY FEASTER, VP OF COMMUNITY HOCKEY DEVELOPMENT FROM THE TAMPA SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT DIVISION

A grand opening for the rink was held in late August to offer hockey workshops to youth eager to test out the new park feature.

SMR from keeping its commitment to help build hockey support. When Manatee Parks paid $79,000 to pour the concrete slab for the rink and conduct safety testing, SMR reimbursed the county. The Lightning Foundation invested another $110,000 to complete the rink with side boards and more equipment for upcoming leagues. “Sports, particularly for our youth, have always been of utmost importance in planning for and building Lakewood Ranch as a community,” says Lisa Barnott, SMR’s director of marketing and communications. SMR is also the residential real estate development partner of the Lightning and Amalie Arena, which is geared at drawing synergy between Tampa Bay residents and opportunities in Lake-

wood Ranch. “At the county, we want to express our gratitude to SMR for establishing a contact like this … and holding to their commitment,” Hunsicker says. Currently, the rink is open to all residents, “like a swing set at the park,” Hunsicker says.

The Lightning Foundation will work with parenting groups to set up league play and clinic times. For updates and information on upcoming clinics and leagues, visit the Outdoor Rinks page at LightningMadeHockey.com.

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PULSE

THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

One coupleâ€™s cocktail party leads to a big impact for charity. PAGE 42

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Photos by Heidi Kurpiela

When Connecticut natives Vic and Mary Frances Emerson bought a home in Esplanade Golf & Country Club, Mary Frances says she had to be “dragged kicking and screaming” out of New England. “I didn’t know I would fall in love with Lakewood Ranch.”

Rising Tide F Some couples support causes by opening their checkbooks. Other couples do it by opening their homes to fundraising events. Vic and Mary Frances Emerson are the second kind. BY HEIDI KURPIELA | CONTRIBUTOR 42

LWR LIFE

ifteen years ago, back when Mary Frances Emerson was still working long hours at a New York City-area investment firm, she found herself carrying a load all too familiar to baby boomers: caring for an aging loved one while holding down a full-time job. Then a Westport, Conn., resident, Emerson, along with her daughter and son-in-law, had committed to taking care of her 90-year-old aunt, with whom she had been close since childhood. The aunt — a brassy, New England spitfire who in her old age Continued on Page 44

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Continued from Page 42 had taken to nagging her niece for not adding enough salt to her food — had made it known she wanted to live out her days at home. Honoring her aunt’s wishes, Emerson divided the lion’s share of the work among herself, her daughter, her sonin-law and a student nurse, who held down the fort during the day while the trio was at work. They cooked for the aunt, bathed the aunt, did the aunt’s laundry and sat with her for hours. At night when she was restless or confused, Emerson would lie in bed next to the aunt until she was sure she was finally asleep. This routine went on for a year, until one day Emerson realized her aunt might qualify for in-home hospice care. The first time the hospice nurses arrived at the door, Emerson greeted them with her coat still on, even though she had been inside the house for quite some time. They told her to go home and sleep, that she looked exhausted. “I just stood there with my mouth open, like, ‘Who are these angels?’” she says. “It was a labor of love, taking care of my aunt, but once you live it, and you know there are people out there … and this is what they do … it’s a godsend and such a relief.” She has had a soft spot for hospice ever since. Now retired, remarried and living in Lakewood Ranch’s Esplanade Golf & Country Club, Emerson found the ultimate way to give back. Over the past two years, the self-described workaholic has devoted much of her newfound free time to two endeavors: golf and raising thousands of dollars for Tidewell Hospice. During their first two years as Lakewood Ranch residents, Emerson and her husband, Vic, the former senior vice president and chief financial officer of Amerifit Brands, have raised more than $30,000 for Tidewell’s new Lakewood Ranch Hospice House. Spurred by their shared love of entertaining and a vested interest in hospice (Vic served on the board of the Visiting Nurses Association of Central Connecticut), the Emersons approached Tidewell with an idea for an intimate cocktail party. “They were more than taken aback when we said we wanted to do it in our home,” Emerson says.

LWR LIFE

On Nov. 6, Esplanade residents Mary Frances Emerson, Frank Fitzgerald, Vic Emerson and Ron Rippo presented a $26,000 check to Tidewell Hospice at a charity cocktail party hosted by the Emersons for the second year in a row.

Tidewell Hospice President and CEO Jonathan Fleece sits with Lakewood Ranch resident Judith Berlow, whose husband, retired radiologist Michael Berlow, died earlier this year and received Tidewell’s care.

Mostly, they couldn’t believe how quickly the couple hit the ground running after having just moved from Connecticut. “To just jump into the community and embrace a local hospice organization is a spectacular gift,” says Debbie Mason, Tidewell’s chief philanthropy officer. “You can tell they’ve been personally touched by it. They understand the beauty of what hospice brings not only to patients but also to family members.” For this year’s event, the Emersons tripled the number of invites, bumped up the ticket price and added

two tents, two bars and a red carpet, where guests were handed champagne flutes upon arrival. They also expanded their fundraising committee to include three other Esplanade couples: Frank and Dory Fitzgerald, Art and Rena Jacoby, and Ron Rippo and Lorraine Krepfle. They even moved their furniture into storage to make room for more tables and chairs. Thanks to a clever invite-a-friend initiative, the Nov. 6 fundraiser exceeded its $20,000 fundraising goal months ahead of the actual event. The Emersons are bowled over by the generosity of their guests, many of whom they never met prior to their parties. In an effort to maintain this momentum, they have already cooked up more ways to raise money next year. Next on their to-do list: a charity golf tournament. They already discussed it with the golf pro at Esplanade. He said he would love to make it happen. “They’re all in,” says interior designer Scott Velez, whose custom Christmas trees were on display and later donated after both parties. “In the 20 years I’ve been doing this work, I’ve never come across a more giving or big-hearted couple. You don’t find people like that anymore.”

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charity snapshot

Taking Flight

Going on 34 years, a seemingly under-the-radar charity gives terminally ill children exceptional cheer through gift-giving and a big ol’ holiday party. BY ERIC SNIDER | CONTRIBUTOR

ome the second week of December, when 13-yearold Jamie Cothron attends his eighth straight Flight to the North Pole charity event, he already knows what his present will be: Legos. “He is one of the biggest Lego fanatics,” says Jamie’s mom, Nikki Cothron. “We have a 12-by-13 bedroom with shelves all the way around holding his Lego projects.” It’s fair to say that the Flight to the North Pole party — and his Lego haul — is the highlight of Jamie’s year. Jamie has a form of muscular dystrophy whose myriad complications prevent him from attending school and keep him in the family’s Bradenton home most of the time. But thanks mostly in part to the ongoing efforts of one man, Sidney Ettedgui, a long-time employee of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, the Flight to the North Pole has been providing terminally ill children with holiday gifts and cheer for 34 years. Each year, Flight to the North Pole participants fill out wish lists, which the nonprofit does its best to fulfill. Each child who attends A Flight to the North Pole event receives a gift valued up to $100. “It’s given him such a better outlook on life,” Nikki Cothron says. “Something to really look forward to.” The event started as an actual flight (hence the name) in 1985 after several Eastern Airlines flight attendants formed the charity with a desire to Continued on Page 48

LWR LIFE

Photo by Dex Honea

Flight to the North Pole organizer Sidney Ettedgui (right) pictured with Larry Morris, 9, who will attend the event for the fifth year in a row. Ettedgui is a long-time employee of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and has been involved in the event in some capacity since its inception in 1985.

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Continued from Page 46 do something extra special for local children. During the inaugural flight, a group of kids and their parents, who might not otherwise have the means to travel, were invited to board a jetliner (with actual tickets and signage) at Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport. A volunteer pilot took them on a brief flight, and upon landing, they were greeted on the tarmac by Santa Claus, who doled out gifts at the airport fire station. Following the first Flight to the North Pole, turmoil at Eastern Airlines, which eventually went bankrupt, forced the company to discontinue its participation. The former “silverliners” were desperate for the charity flight to continue. That’s when their friend Ettedgui, a volunteer and contributor to the cause since its inception, took the lead. “My goal was always to give back to the community,” Ettedgui says. At that time, Continental Airlines had also stepped up, and the flights continued for the next 15 years. Then came 9/11. “With all the new rules, I didn’t want to put the families through that every year,” Ettedgui says. “We decided to have the families come straight to the fire station in the airport. By then, I was working at the Sheriff’s Office, so I got about 50 deputies to provide security.” Although Flight to the North Pole is a registered 501(c)(3), as a 29-year employee of the Sheriff’s Office, Ettedgui says the department has more or less “adopted” the foundation by offering plenty of support in both resources and volunteers. Firefighters have also been essential in the coordination while the event has been at their station. Each year, a sheriff’s helicopter delivers Santa to the main event, which happens to be one of 9-year-old Larry Morris’ favorite parts of the experience. Going on his fifth year of attendance, Larry, who is recovering from a kidney transplant last year, also looks forward to getting presents and hanging out with the clowns at the event. “He pretty much looks forward to everything,” says Jenny Wingate, Larry’s mom. This year, Jamie and Larry will be just two of some 400 kids to benefit from Flight to the North Pole events, a significant jump from previous years

LWR LIFE

Courtesy photo

Thanks to additional funding, the organization was able to provide Jamie Cothron with a new motorized scooter last year.

due to major fundraising efforts by its primary benefactor, The Ferrari Drivers Group Sarasota. The 3-year-old organization contributes solely to the Flight to the North Pole. “The main reason we picked Flight to the North Pole is that all the raised funds stay in our community and benefit critically ill children, and [it] is a volunteer-run organization,” says Jurgun Otto, of the Ferrari Drivers Group. Last year, the Exotic Car Festival Lakewood Ranch and Ferrari Drivers Group Gala — including a live and silent auction — raised $165,957.70 for the Flight to the North Pole, which effectively doubled the charity’s budget. In addition to helping outreach of the main event, the extra funds have also allowed Flight to the North Pole

to host events at two schools and extend gift-giving throughout the year — to provide motorized wheelchairs for kids and travel and hotel money to families for doctors’ visits, among other benefits. Earlier this year, Jamie Cothron received some wheels of his own in the form of a red, four-wheel motorized scooter. “The look on his face was priceless,” Nikki Cothron says. “It gives him independence, so that he doesn’t always have to be pushed in a wheelchair.” The Ferrari Group also holds two other car shows — one in September and the other in November — to benefit the charity, but Otto says the bulk of the money comes from the auction that takes place during the February Exotic Car Festival Gala. The Ferrari Group Sarasota has scheduled its next Exotic Car Festival Lakewood Ranch for Feb. 29 to March 1. The car show will take place on Feb. 29 on Main Street and is free to the public. Due to renovations at the fire department facility, the Flight of the North Pole main event will be held at a new venue this year: the Palmetto studios of Feld Entertainment — the company that produces Disney on Ice, Monster Jam and other major tours. “I am working with two [women at Feld], and I think it will really be a first-class event,” Ettedgui says, adding that the Feld family themselves will be in attendance this year. In addition to December’s event, two gift-giving Flight to the North Pole parties will be held at G.D. Rogers Garden Elementary and the McCay Academy (formerly Ave Maria Prep School) leading up to the main event. Despite, at times, battling considerable headwinds, Flight to the North Pole is one of those scrappy nonprofits that has done long-term good for the community, and it has even thrived and grown as a result of the dedication of Ettedgui, whose support for the families extends well beyond the charity events. “We love him, and he does a lot,” Wingate says. “He helped out after Larry had the transplant.” And thanks to the support of community organizations, such as the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and the Ferrari Drivers Group Sarasota, The Flight to the North Pole seems to have settled in for the long flight.

IF YOU GO Exotic Car Festival Lakewood Ranch Hosted by the Ferrari Drivers Group Sarasota When: Saturday, Feb. 29 Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tickets: Free admission All donations can be sent to: Flight to the North Pole 600 301 Blvd. W., Suite 202 Bradenton, FL 34205 Or donate through the website: FlightToTheNorthPole.org

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calendar winter 2019-20

DECEMBER

DEC. 1 FARMERS MARKET The Market, featuring fresh vegetables, live music, activities and products from more than 60 vendors, returns from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at a new location, the parking lot of Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, 8330 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. Continues every Sunday through April 26. (See more on Page 54.) n For more information, visit TheMarketLWR.com. DEC. 4 CLASSIC CAR SHOW Celebrate classic cars in this show the first Wednesday of each month, from 5-9 p.m. at Lakewood Ranch Main Street. Bring your car, truck or anything on wheels. Cost is $10 to enter a vehicle, but attending as a spectator is free. n For information, call 941-371-1061, or email lance@collectorcarstv.com. DEC. 5, 12, 19 MAIN STREET CELEBRATES THE CHRISTMAS SEASON The holidays will take over Lakewood Ranch Main Street with carriage rides, carolers and Santa strolls from 6:308:30 p.m. n For more information, visit LakewoodRanch.com. DEC. 6 MUSIC ON MAIN Come to Main Street at Lakewood Ranch from 6-9 p.m. for a free concert by Sugar & Spice Revue band. Proceeds benefit Meals on Wheels Plus of Manatee. n For more information, visit LakewoodRanch.com. SLEDDING WITH SANTA The Lakewood Ranch YMCA welcomes the public for hot chocolate, arts and crafts with Santa and sledding on real snow from 5:30-8 p.m. at its campus at 5100 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. n For information, call 941-798-9622, or visit ManateeYMCA.org.

LWR LIFE

Courtesy photo

DEC. 7 JINGLE AND JOG 5K AND 1-MILE RUN/WALK Participants have the option of a 5K or 1-mile run/walk to benefit The Haven, formerly Community Haven for Adults and Children with Disabilities. Registration starts at 7 a.m., and the run starts at 8 a.m. at The Haven, 4405 DeSoto Road, Sarasota. Cost is $35. n For more information, visit CommunityHaven.org. DEC. 8 SHOEBOX RECEPTION Drop in from 4-6 p.m. to donate money or decorated shoeboxes filled with items for needy seniors supported by Meals on Wheels Plus of Manatee. Collections will be taken at the Lakewood Ranch-Sarasota Elks Lodge, 4602 Lena Road, Bradenton. n For more information, visit MealsOnWheelsPlus.org.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA AT ED’S TAVERN Join Ed's Tavern for breakfast with Santa from 9-11 a.m. at the restaurant, 10719 Rodeo Drive, Lakewood Ranch. n For more information, call 941-907-0400. DEC. 13 HOLIDAYS AROUND THE RANCH Watch Santa Claus make his grand entrance on a horse-drawn carriage and the lighting of the holiday tree at Main Street Lakewood Ranch. From 6-9 p.m., come listen to carolers, sip on hot cocoa and eggnog from street vendors, and enjoy other holiday activities. Attendees are encouraged to donate nonperishable food or an unused toy. n For more information, visit LWRCAC.com.

Continued on Page 52

Carolers provide entertainment on Main Street on Thursday nights in December.

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DEC. 14 BREAKFAST WITH SANTA AT GROVE Indulge in a breakfast buffet with St. Nicholas from 8:30-10:30 a.m. at Grove, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch. Snap photos with Santa, and get creative at the arts and crafts table. n For more information, call 941-893-4321. DEC. 15 LUNCH WITH SANTA AT THE TRATTORIA Enjoy lunch with Santa from 1-3 p.m. at Main Street Trattoria, 8131 Lakewood Main St., Lakewood Ranch. n For more information or reservations, call 941-907-1518. DEC. 20 JINGLE 5K Move your feet to the jingling beat for this festive jingle bell run starting at Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, 8330 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. Children’s dashes start at 6 p.m., and the 5K starts at 7 p.m. Race benefits Lakewood Ranch Medical Center Auxiliary. n For more information, visit LakewoodRanchMedicalCenter.org. DEC. 21 LUNCH WITH SANTA AT MACALLISTERS Join Santa for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at MacAllisters Grill and Tavern, 8110 Lakewood Main St., Lakewood Ranch. It’s a great opportunity for pictures, food and family fun. Reservations are required. n For more information, call 941-359-2424. DEC. 22 CHANUKAH CELEBRATION Chabad of Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch will celebrate Chanukah starting at 5 p.m. at Main Street at Lakewood Ranch, 8100 Lakewood Main St., Lakewood Ranch. A menorah will be lighted, and guests can enjoy Israeli-style kosher food, face painting, doughnut decorating and more. Admission is free. n For information, call 941-952-3030.

LWR LIFE

Stacy Rosenberg made challah during Chabad of Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch’s 2019 Mega Challah Bake with her daughter, Laney Rosenberg, and mom, Jayne Weissman, who wanted to do a multigenerational event.

DEC. 23 CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION This celebration will include food, fun, games, rides, music and Santa, as well as a candlelight service from 4-8:30 p.m. at Main Street at Lakewood Ranch. n For more information, visit LakewoodRanch.com.

JANUARY

JAN. 4 HEALTH AND WELLNESS EXPO This interactive health event from 9 a.m. to noon will feature more than 50 exhibitors in the health and wellness field and also feature blood pressure, spinal and posture checks, eye exams and more at The Mall at University Town Center, 140 University Town Center, Sarasota. Admission is free. n For more information, visit LWRHealthExpo.org. JAN. 8 RANCH NITE WEDNESDAYS In collaboration with Sarasota Polo Club and MVP Sports and Social and sponsored by The Market at Lakewood Ranch, this mid-week community “Ranch nite” event features food trucks, cornhole, live music and cocktails from 5-9 p.m. at the Sarasota Polo Club, 8201 Polo Club Lane, Sarasota. Continues every Wednesday through March 25.

n More details coming soon to LakewoodRanch.com.

JAN. 9 LWR 101: RESIDENT ORIENTATION Whether you have lived in Lakewood Ranch six minutes or six years, this free orientation teaches residents about the community, social activities and how to give back. n Register at LWRCAC.com. MEGA CHALLAH BAKE Chabad of Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch will host this challah-making event for women ages 9 and up at 7 p.m. at Grove, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch. There will be music and singing, lessons, refreshments and, of course, the making of challah bread. Cost is $36 per person. n Reservations are required to ChabadOfBradenton.com/ MegaChallahBake or 941-752-3030. JAN 10. MUSIC ON MAIN Come to Lakewood Ranch Main Street from 6-9 p.m. for a free concert by The Reality, a funk, jamtronica and reggae band. Proceeds benefit the Police Athletic League. n For more information, visit LakewoodRanch.com.

Continued on Page 54

The Sarasota Polo Club kicks off its season with an afternoon of tailgating and polo. Gates open at 10 a.m., and matches start at 1 p.m. at the Sarasota Polo Club, 8201 Polo Club Lane. General admission costs $15 for adults, and children 12 and under are free. Polo matches will be held every Sunday from Dec. 15 through April 12. n For more information, visit SarasotaPolo.com.

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Continued from Page 52 JAN. 11 COMMUNITY NATURE WALK Join Lakewood Ranch Ambassador Greg Spring for a 2-mile, one-hour nature walk on some of the trails in Lakewood Ranch. The walks start at 8 a.m. at Greenbrook Adventure Park at the pavilion, 13010 Adventure Place, Lakewood Ranch. n For more information, visit LakewoodRanch.com. JAN. 18 BIKE RIDE Lakewood Ranch Ambassador Greg Spring will lead a 10-mile, one-hour casual bike ride through Lakewood Ranch. Participants will meet at the fountain at 8 a.m. at Lakewood Ranch Main Street. n For more information, visit LakewoodRanch.com. TEENAGE FISHING TOURNAMENT Lakewood Ranch will host a fishing tournament just for teenagers from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the lake at James L. Patton Park, 5725 White Eagle Blvd., Bradenton. n For information, visit LWRCAC.com. JAN. 21 LWR TALKS This lively speaker series will be held at the Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club starting at 10 a.m. Guests can enjoy socializing, refreshments and an informative educational lecture on various topics. Cost is $10. n For information, visit LakewoodRanch.com.

FEBRUARY

FEB. 7 MUSIC ON MAIN Come to Lakewood Ranch Main Street from 6-9 p.m. for a free concert by Gloria West & The Gents. Proceeds benefit Care2Tri, a nonprofit promoting the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in triathlons. n For more information, visit LakewoodRanch.com. FEB. 8 COMMUNITY NATURE WALK Join Lakewood Ranch Ambassador Greg Spring for a 2-mile, one-hour

LWR LIFE

‘TIS THE SEASON … For fresh market goods. The Market at Lakewood Ranch debuted Nov. 3 at its new location, on a new day and — yes — at a new time. This year, the 3-year-old farmers-market-plus embraced a growth spurt, making its move from Wednesday evenings at the Sarasota Polo Club to Sundays in the front of the Women’s Center at Lakewood Ranch Medical Center. The Medical Center parking lot offered plenty of space to host a plethora of vendors with fresh produce, meats and other wares as well as market perks, such as yoga and cooking demonstrations. On opening day, more than 60 vendors attended the revamped market, which runs through April.

nature walk on some of the trails in Lakewood Ranch. The walks start at 8 a.m. at Greenbrook Adventure Park at the pavilion, 13010 Adventure Place, Lakewood Ranch. n For more information, visit LakewoodRanch.com. FEB. 15 BIKE RIDE Lakewood Ranch Ambassador Greg Spring will lead a 10-mile, one-hour casual bike ride through Lakewood Ranch. Participants will meet at 8 a.m. at the fountain at Lakewood Ranch Main Street. n For more information, visit LakewoodRanch.com. FEB. 18 LWR TALKS This lively speaker series will be held at the Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club starting at 10 a.m. Guests can enjoy socializing, refreshments and an informative educational lecture on various topics. Cost is $10. n For more information, visit LakewoodRanch.com. FEB. 22 LWR COMMUNITY CAMPOUT Join your neighbors for a night of family-fun camping under the stars at a park in Lakewood Ranch. Bring your own tent and camping supplies, and enjoy activities including live music, a nature hike, treasure hunts, a family movie and stargazing with an astronomer. Cost per family is $20. n For information, visit LWRCAC.com.

With the market’s overall emphasis on healthy living, the new location also made a strong connection of community with its state-of-the-art medical center. Marketgoers shouldn't get too comfy with the new location, though. The weekly curated event might only be at its new spot for one or two seasons as it awaits a more permanent location among Lakewood Ranch’s up-and-coming Waterside Place, which is currently under construction. Find The Market at Lakewood Ranch 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 8330 Lakewood Ranch Blvd. every Sunday through April 26. n For more information, visit TheMarketLWR.com.

The LWR Community Campout features fun camping activities, right in the heart of Lakewood Ranch.

YOUTH FISHING SEMINAR Children can learn the basics of fishing with the help of the Lakewood Ranch Angler’s Club in preparation for the Youth Fishing Tournament. Sessions run between noon and 3 p.m., and registration is required. n For information, visit LWRCAC.com. FEB. 29 YOUTH FISHING TOURNAMENT Cast those lines, and reel in the fish! Youth ages 5 to 15 can test their fishing skills and compete for prizes during Lakewood Ranch’s annual Youth Fishing Tournament from 7 a.m. to noon at Lake Uihlein, behind Lakewood Ranch Town Hall, 8175 Lakewood Ranch Blvd. Don’t forget to bring your rod, reel, chair and sunscreen. Bait will be supplied, but participants can bring their own. Registration is required, as is a $5 pre-payment for an optional lunch. n For information, visit LWRCAC.com.

Get out of the box. Get into the Circle.

Upcoming Events: December 6 Holiday Night of Lights December 14 Porsches in the Park January 12 32nd Anniversary Circus Ring of Fame January 18 Taste of St. Armands January 25 & 26 Winter Art Festival

D I N E ,

R E L A X

941.388.1554 | dir@starmandscircleassoc.com | 300 Madison Drive Suite 201 | Sarasota, FL 34236

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You Can Take It With You Figure out which travel bag and accessory is best for you this holiday season. BY HARRY SAYER | CONTRIBUTOR

t might not feel like it just yet (especially because it’s still as hot as can be), but winter is right around the corner.

And that means Thanksgiving, Christmas

and time off from school are on the way too, so you might be going on vacation — and soon. If you don’t have the right kind of traveling bags, or if you’re just in the mood to pick out something new, this is a good time to look. We talked to local retailers to get an idea of the new, popular travel bags and accessories on sale right now. Some are large, some are small, but all are portable.

CROWDER’S GADGETS AND GIFTS 2401 Lakewood Ranch Blvd.

The staff at Crowder’s Gifts and Gadgets is particularly excited for its Vera Bradley collection of backpacks, rolling bags and travel blankets. The rolling work bag and small spinner in its Iconic series have a winter pattern that might brighten up that trip to the airport. At $100, the travel duffel is a good alternative as well. If it’s a personal carry-on you’re hoping to bring, the red campus backpack might turn some heads. Once you have everything you need, and you’re on the plane, the travel blankets aren’t a bad idea either.

LWR LIFE

Iconic small spinner, $248

WISH ON MAIN

Iconic campus backpack, $115

8141 Lakewood Main St. If bringing something a little flashier for your travels is more your speed, Wish on Main has recently added a number of glamorous items to its inventory. A particular highlight is the BSwanky bag series, which are bags that can be converted into backpacks if you’re on the go (which, presumably, you are). The company’s website emphasizes that the bags are created by “local female artisans.” What’s more is that they’re made right here in Sarasota.

Continued on Page 60 BSwanky convertible bag, $300

Plush throw blankets, $55

Turquoise Mia clutch bag, $39

Iconic large travel duffel, $100

Jen & Co. animal print handbag, $136 LWR LIFE

Continued from Page 59 And if you’re unsure on what kind of design to go for, the Wish on Main staff strongly recommends you go for animal print. It’s in vogue this year, after all. The Consuela series has tool bags, train cases and dome cosmetic pieces that are great for a person on the go.

Tool bag, $99

Dome cosmetic, $403

Train case, $136

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LWR LIFE

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WORLDLY FEAST No need for Ranchers to leave the country — or the county —

to get their fix of international cuisine. Main Street Lakewood Ranch offers a diverse selection of ethnic eats to please any and all palates. BY RANDI DONAHUE | MANAGING EDITOR

hen the excitement of holiday comfort food has left the building, but a house full of guests remains, give everyone’s taste buds a vacay (and yourself a break from the kitchen) with a trip to any one or all of Main Street Lakewood Ranch’s international options. This guide to a flavorful

escape offers worldly flair that takes you from Paris to Peru — minus the TSA security and hotel expense. So ladies and gentlemen, sit back, relax, and enjoy the scrumptious journey.

PARIS BISTROT 8131 Lakewood Main St. #103 ParisBistrotLWR.com 941-388-0564

LWR LIFE

Ah, the City of Love. With 12 years in the same location, Paris Bistrot has mastered the intimate Parisian feel without Americanizing any part of the cuisine. From omelets made the French way — incorporate the egg into the ingredients not just in the middle — and buckwheat crepes to beef bourguignon and sauce au Poivre, Parisianborn owner and chef Jean Christophe Nebra stays true to his heritage. That’s not to say he doesn’t infuse a little bit of his own flair. Nebra says that although French recipes hold the same foundation of ingredients, the recipe execution tends to be slightly unique, depending on who’s cooking. One of the most popular dishes is the pork Marco Polo — pork tenderloin covered in

black pepper and cognac sauce (right). Paris Bistrot serves lunch and dinner daily in a quaint cafe setting filled with leather booths, iron chandeliers and French accents aimed to immerse diners in an authentic Parisian experience. Although the lunch menu is consistent, dinner options can change from evening to evening and are served in more of a formal style. (Think warm light and white tablecloths.) Nebra opens early for breakfast on the weekend and also offers a fantastic French wine selection if you are into that sort of thing (wink, wink). If you want to get a taste of Paris in season, especially for dinner, be sure to make a reservation, or you’ll be fighting for a comfy seat in this gem of an establishment.

LWR LIFE

MAIN STREET TRATTORIA 8131 Lakewood Main St. #101 MSTrattoria.com 941- 907-1518

Rooted in Italian history, “trattorias” were known to be simple neighborhood eateries with a menu full of variety and an atmosphere aimed at pleasing the entire family. Main Street Trattoria owner Gary Fennessy, originally from New Jersey, has captured that casual “anything goes” mentality with his 10-year-old trattoria. MST is a large space with a long bar and a bustling air about it. Indoor dining offers views of the open kitchen, where head chef Herbert Arguer is free to use his culinary creativity and diverse expertise to maintain a menu full of delicious comfort foods from traditional Italian dishes to work-of-art specials, such as filet and lobster tails and Mediterranean grouper over spaghetti. And, of course, what trattoria would be complete without a large pizza oven? Lunch at MST hardly strays from comfort with fantastic sandwich offerings including cheesy meatball subs to caprese chicken parm. Arger also makes desserts from scratch including the classic tiramisu (left) and a gluten-free chocolate cake. Ample outdoor seating offers the perfect setting for a sunset happy hour or boozy Sunday brunch.

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Stacy Haas | 941.587.4359 StacyHaas@michaelsaunders.com

Greg Van Natter | 941.730.1999 GregVanNatter@michaelsaunders.com

Gloria Bracciano | 941.229.4000 GloriaBracciano@michaelsaunders.com

Top 1% of all agents in the Sarasota and Manatee County Board of Realtors • Over 26 Years of Real Estate Experience

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• Over $330 Million in Lifetime Sales

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Thank you for allowing us to serve you, our clients and friends. We are truly blessed and grateful. - Stacy, Greg and Gloria

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CASA MAYA

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8126 Lakewood Main St. #101 CasaMayaLWR.com 941-907-9449

Casa Maya owner Ronald Kuroiwa considers his restaurant a combination of Tex-Mex and authentic Mexican cuisine. Kuroiwa, from Bolivia, says it’s his diverse kitchen staff hailing from many different Latin countries that allows him to bring the individual seasonings of their countries to the Casa Maya menu. One of the most popular dishes, and Kuroiwa’s favorite, is the Molcajetes (left). This Guadalajaran specialty consists of a heated volcanic stone (in the shape of a pig) filled with meat or seafood and grilled onions and peppers drowning in a homemade red sauce served bubbling hot and wafting amazing aromas that tempt you to sacrifice your tongue and ignore the accompaniments. If you do choose to practice patience as it cools and eat it as intended, you’ll scoop out the filling, put it on a tortilla and top it with desired fixings, such as sour cream, cheese, lettuce, pico de gallo and guacamole. Casa Maya offers a lively, colorful atmosphere and warm customer service. The sangria and margaritas made from scratch in-house complement the fresh cuisine. A freshly updated menu incorporates even more traditional flavors and items for regulars to sample.

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HANA SUSHI LOUNGE 8126 Lakewood Main St. #102 HanaSushiLoungeLWR.com 941-907-1290

Just south of the Casa Maya border is the hip and modern Hana Sushi Lounge. Thanks to extensive travels, Hana owner Jane Dokko stays up on the industry trends, from cocktail concoctions to innovative sushi rolls. And although you might not be stepping into a traditional Japanese “sushi-ya” when headed to Hana, your taste buds will no doubt still be in for a fun field trip. Dokko says they use the highest quality fish and that all the Hana sauces are made in-house. You are welcome to order simple sashimi, but with offerings like the popular volcano roll or the red diamond roll — spicy tuna, cucumber and scallops topped with red tobiko (flying fish roe) — the artful combination of beauty and flavor makes a strong case to go with a Hana roll instead. Hana also offers plenty of options for the non-sushi slammer, from udon noodles to fried chicken (yes, you read that right). Hana is family-friendly but also offers a fun night scene with lively bar culture, which is in constant flux with creative craft cocktails made from fresh, created-onsite cocktail mixers.

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LWR LIFE

More Luxury. More Amenities. The Most Exclusive L ifestyle. 15 LUXURY MODELS INTRODUCING OUR NEWEST NEIGHBORHOOD, GENOA TOUR OF HOMES | OCTOBER 18 T H –NOVEMBER 17 T H

Lake Club residents enjoy a vibrant lifestyle with luxury amenities that include: Staffed Guardhouse • Grande Clubhouse • Indoor and Outdoor Dining • Spa & Fitness Center Resort-style Swimming Pool & Family Pool • Lifestyle Director to organize social events Full-service Concierge • 6 Tennis Courts • Pro Shop • 4 Pickleball Courts Children’s Playground • Dog Park • Yoga Lawn • Basketball Court The Lake Club features the widest choice of luxury homes from the area’s premier builders.

From the $600s to over $3 million

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THE LAKE CLUB INFORMATION CENTER: 8307 Lake Club Blvd., Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 | (941) 907-9088 | thelakeclublwr.com ANCHOR BUILDERS | ARTHUR RUTENBERG HOMES | JOHN CANNON HOMES | LEE WETHERINGTON HOMES STOCK SIGNATURE HOMES | STOCK CUSTOM HOMES BROKER PARTICIPATION WELCOMED. ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING THE REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS REFERENCE SHOULD BE MADE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. NOT AN OFFERING WHERE PROHIBITED BY STATE LAW. PRICES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

INKAWASKI 10667 Boardwalk Loop InkawasiRestaurant.com 941-360-1110

The last stop on our worldly food tour is certainly not the least, but it is the newest international cuisine to hit Main Street. For this stop, head to south Main Street and around to Boardwalk Loop to enter Inkawasi (Inca House), which represents the vibrant foods of Peru. Peruvian owner Jimmy Arias, who learned to cook from his mom, has nailed the ambiance and cuisine in his cheerful, light and airy space, which features high ceilings, ample glazing and beautiful Peruvian art and tchotchkes. But the real star of the show is, of course, the eats. Influenced by the many cultures from the Spanish to Asian, who at one point in the country’s history colonized there, Peruvian cuisine is a melting pot of those country’s traditional foods using the native ingredients of Peru, such as corn, potatoes and yellow peppers. On your first visit to Inkawasi, you must try the Lomo Saltado — beef flamed with red onions, tomatoes and cilantro leaves and served with white rice and french fries (right). To make it a traditional Peruvian meal, start with Inkawasi Ceviche — fish and shrimp marinated in a yellow pepper ceviche sauce served with sweet potato, Peruvian-toasted corn and seaweed. Also be sure to pair any meal you get with a chicha Morada — a jewel-toned beverage prepared from a base of boiled purple corn, cloves, cinnamon and pineapple. The flavor is as delightful as is the color, and the drink is rumored to naturally lower blood pressure. Inkawasi also serves house-made sangria and a selection of Peruvian beers and wines. Open for lunch and dinner; reservations are recommended for dinner.

LWR LIFE

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At a time when families seem to be moving farther apart, four generations of Braccianos did the opposite. Over Sunday dinner, the tight-knit Michigan clan explained why they flocked to Lakewood Ranch together. BY HEIDI KURPIELA | CONTRIBUTOR

Photos by Heidi Kurpiela

Sunday dinners draw anywhere from 12 to 24 family members and are always held at Gloria and Greg Bracciano’s house in the Country Club.

LWR LIFE

FAMILY MATTERS

The Bracciano brood is something of an anomaly in Lakewood Ranch. Once deeply rooted in Michigan, the family — an extended tribe of chummy siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins and babies — is so at home in East Manatee County that it is as if they grew up running barefoot through the Florida scrub. Except they grew up ice fishing on the Great Lakes. Before migrating south in dribs and drabs, the Braccianos were the quintessential Lower Peninsula family. They spent their summers relaxing on the banks of Lake Huron and bunking in cottages nestled among the hemlocks and maples surrounding Saginaw Bay. In the fall, they binged on cider and doughnuts procured from farm stands and cider mills in the “thumb area” of their mitten-shaped state. In the winter, they cross-country skied. They wagered bets at tractor pulls and flocked to the Huron County Fair, where girls competed to be “Bean Queen,” and boys competed to win the demolition derby. They studied at Wayne State, Oakland and Michigan State universities and embarked on ambitious careers in medicine, academia and automobile engineering, to name a few. Then little by little, they trickled down to Lakewood Ranch — because when one Bracciano goes somewhere, another Bracciano follows. First to come: David Bracciano, a dermatologist who in the early 2000s saw an opportunity to build his practice on the then-mostly undeveloped Cooper Creek Boulevard. When he and wife Julie moved their three children, Nina, David and Stephen, to sleepy East Manatee County 15 years ago, the family referred to the area with all its open pastures and parks as “sweet home Lakewood Ranch.” Now residents of Esplanade Golf & Country Club, they’re amazed by how much it’s grown since they came. Second to arrive: David’s sister, Continued on Page 76

LWR LIFE

Courtesy photos

The whole Bracciano gang visited Disney World for Christmas 2012, before many of them settled in Lakewood Ranch. Alfred and Olga are front and center. Left: Alfred “Poppy” Bracciano holds Angel and Haim’s son, Niko, shortly after he was born. Alfred died in summer 2019.

My mother and father really stressed the importance of family. We want to maintain that foundation. It grounds the kids.” GLORIA BRACCIANO

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Continued from Page 74 Gloria Bracciano, the family’s resident “energizer bunny” who, after serving as provost of Gulliver Schools in Miami, was ready for a change of pace. At first she thought she wanted to move to Naples or Marco Island until she realized her “blood pressure dropped” every time she drove into Lakewood Ranch. In 2014, she and husband Greg Van Natter, a real estate agent, moved into the Lakewood Ranch Country Club. Now agents with Michael Saunders & Co., the couple is at the top of its game. Third to hit town: Gloria and David’s niece, Katie Bracciano Walters, a teacher at Out-of-Door-Academy who lived in a trailer at Linger Lodge for six months trying to convince her husband, Jason, that HOA communities are OK. A self-described “country boy,” the Florida native always pictured himself raising kids on a couple acres. However, after a brief stay in rural Lakeland, the Summerfield resident says he can’t imagine living anywhere else. According to Katie, “he can mow the lawn in 20 minutes here instead of four hours.” Last to relocate: Gloria’s daughter, Angelica “Angel” Rossi Sharma, who had no trouble convincing her husband, Haim, a freelance art director and illustrator, that buying a house five minutes from her mother would be great for their baby. Jason even flew out to the couple’s home in Texas to help them move and drove Angel’s car 1,200 miles, so she could fly with her son. Gloria isn’t surprised by this mass migration. Her family was raised to embrace change and make moves. In fact, her parents, Alfred and Olga Bracciano (“Poppy” and “Nene” to the grandkids), were the first to get the ball rolling. Retired educators and bastions of the Detroit-area community where they raised their family, Alfred and Olga retired to Longboat Key in 1985. They remained on the island until the rest of the family started buying homes in Lakewood Ranch, and then they decided to get one blocks from Gloria in the Country Club. “My mother and father really stressed the importance of family,” Gloria says. “We want to maintain that foundation. It grounds the kids.” She says they represent a return to the nuclear family.

LWR LIFE

“The nuclear family used to be extended generations of people raising children together, guiding young adults, nurturing little ones,” Gloria says. “Aunts, uncles and cousins all on the same street supporting one another. The nice thing about Lakewood Ranch is that you can live that way here because the community offers something for every generation.” If it takes a village, the Braccianos are living proof that you can take the village with you. They do everything together. They eat together, go to church together, shop together, work out together, fish together and embark on epic Disney trips together, usually in matching T-shirts designed by Haim. On Sundays, they meet for dinner at Gloria and Greg’s place. At 3,400 square feet, the home was designed specifically for entertaining, with a giant outdoor kitchen that Gloria calls Greg’s “man cave.” They cook whatever they got fresh that week at Detwiler’s Farm Market: salmon, chicken thighs, corn, asparagus, zucchini, etc. Sometimes there are two main courses, depending on who’s in town. Jason and Haim are usually the first to arrive for Sunday dinner; they fire up the grill. David brings the appetizers, and Angel is usually the first to do dishes. Meanwhile, Gloria is the one making sure everyone is comfortable, especially “Nene,” who lost her husband last summer after 65 years of marriage. Up until his death, “Poppy” made the same dish for every dinner: his signature salad. During holidays, there can be as many as 24 people at the table. Gloria’s son, Tony, a cardiac anesthesiologist who graduated from LECOM, hopes to return to The Ranch once his fellowship is over at the Cleveland Clinic. Her brothers Al and Dan also plan to make the move once they retire. Al, a professor at Creighton University, just closed on a house in Lakewood Ranch, and Dan, an executive at Chrysler, has a condo on Longboat Key. “Everybody thought my uncle David was crazy when he moved to Lakewood Ranch,” Katie says. “They didn’t understand. They thought this was the middle of nowhere. They asked him why he didn’t want to be closer to the water. Well, joke’s on them, I guess. He ended up in the heart of it all.”

Everybody thought my uncle to Lakewood Ranch. They KATIE BRACCIANO WALTERS

Above: Most family meals consist of grilled meats, veggies and homemade sides. You rarely see a store-bought dish in the spread. Right: Shortly after her brother David (right) moved to Lakewood Ranch, Gloria, a school administrator-turnedreal estate agent, bought a home in the Lakewood Ranch Country Club. She settled here permanently in 2014.

Welcome

David was crazy when he moved didn’t understand.”

NEWCOMERS RECEPTION

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Thursday December 19, 2019 5 –7pm

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• Above: The daughter of Ukrainian immigrants, Olga Bracciano (known as “Nene” to her grandkids) is a retired teacher who didn’t speak English until kindergarten. Left: Angelica “Angel” Rossi-Sharma and husband Haim Sharma moved from Texas to Lakewood Ranch, so their son, Niko, could grow up near family.

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Grape Expectations

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An East County vineyard is making its mark in the Florida wine scene and invites tourists and locals alike to share the fruit of its labor. BY RANDI DONAHUE | MANAGING EDITOR

et’s be honest: Wine production does not ordinarily come to mind when one considers the Sunshine State. But maybe its time has come. “I’d like people to taste this Florida-made wine that pays homage to the local grape scene but be surprised and say, ‘Huh, that’s different,’” says Erik Hall, owner and vintner of Fiorelli Winery in Bradenton. Hall is referring to the wines he has created using a base of muscadines, a type of grape used for centuries to make wine and jams in the southeast region of the United States. But the wine produced on the 10-acre Fiorelli Winery vineyard is not the muscadine wine of yore. Traditional muscadine wine has a reputation of, well, a sweet and “musky” flavor. The modern Fiorelli wine offers something unique. Take the Manatee Red. It’s a lighterbodied, semi-dry, red wine like a pinot noir that pairs well with pasta and red sauce. The Arid White would satisfy a pinot grigio drinker with a light and airy finish — harmonious alongside a locally caught seafood meal. Moving into a slightly sweeter territory, the Breeze resembles a blush, which makes it perfect for balmy fall cookouts. Chill — the sweetest of this bunch — is unequivocally meant to be relished by the pool or lakeside, maybe while munching on some light apps. Fiorelli Winery is home to six thriving varieties of muscadines — some native and some hybrid — including Stover, Blanc de Bois, Liberty, FAMU (developed by the Florida A&M University), Carlos and Triumph — all of which are used in the various blended wines produced and bottled on-site. But the native grapes are only a portion of what is contained in Fiorelli bottles. Once fully fermented, the muscadine wine is then carefully blended with wines from various other regions to create the finished product. “I consider it regionally agnostic,” says Hall, who has merged his creations with wines from California, Oregon and even Ohio. “If it’s good, I’ll bring it in.” Hall’s description of his vintner process evokes mental pictures of a madscientist-slash-matchmaker at work Continued on Page 80 LWR LIFE

Continued from Page 79 in a lab perfecting experiments using sometimes as many as 30 beakers to mix small quantities of wines until it pleases the palate. He invites others to taste as well. With blood that runs three-quarters Italian and kitchen skills gleaned from his Italian grandmother, Hall says it’s his love of cooking that most influences the blends he creates. “I am a fan of muscadine wine, but it doesn’t go with my style of cooking,” Hall says. “We needed something [customers] could take home and drink with dinner or out by the pool but wasn’t ‘muscadine sweet.’” The first grapevines of the Rosa Fiorelli Winery, as it was formerly known, were planted by Antonio Fiorelli, a craftsman from Sicily whose subtle winemaking hobby turned into a fullfledged business. During their time as owners, Antonio and his wife, Rosa, worked with state universities to cultivate hybrid grapes and produce awardwinning wines. When Antonio died in 2013, the family continued his work for

a short time before ultimately deciding it was time to sell the vineyard. One day, Hall’s wife, Tara Files-Hall, a child psychologist, was perusing the classifieds for a location in Lakewood Ranch for her practice when she saw the ad for the Rosa Fiorelli Winery property, which is located northeast of Lakewood Ranch on County Road 675. The couple, who lived in Clearwater at the time, were familiar with the winery because of trips with their two older sons to the neighboring Hunsader Farms. “Tara said: ‘Hey Erik, the winery is for sale. Let’s check it out,’” Hall says. Disillusioned with his corporate job, Hall, an aerospace engineer by trade with a winemaking hobby, was intrigued by the opportunity to switch gears and the possibility of turning his 20-year avocation into a business. They put in an offer on the property, and eventually, it was accepted. The flow of wine, however, was not immediate. Hall rebranded. Although he kept the recognizable “Fiorelli” in Continued on Page 82

It’s Your Time to Explore — travel ... visit ...

Erik Hall was a hobby beer- and winemaker for 20 years before migrating from aerospace engineering to creating wines at Fiorelli.

MUSCADINE MUSINGS l The muscadine grape is native to the southeastern U.S. with accounts of its wild presence in North Carolina dating back to the 1500s. l Muscadines go dormant in the winter, are pruned in the spring and are harvested in the late summer months in Florida. l To eat a fresh muscadine grape, bite a hole in the skin, and squeeze the flesh from the inside. l Muscadines can range in color from bronze to dark purple. l The term “scuppernong” has come to refer to all bronze and green varieties. l A grape is ready for harvest when it comes off the stem with a gentle tug and easily releases into your hand.

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Continued from Page 80 the name, he changed logos and labels. The winery was closed to the public for more than a year during the transition, to accommodate repairs to irrigation in the fields and to other structures. Improvements were made to the pavilion and wine shop. Because muscadines are native to the region, the vines were in OK shape but needed some care. Most of the original vines remained, but new ones were also planted. “Even though the vine will produce grapes the first year, it takes three years for the grapevine to produce grapes suitable for winemaking,” says Catherine Gaze, who was hired as Fiorelli’s general manager in February from

the Biltmore Estate Winery in Asheville, N.C., her hometown and the state where the first historical accounts of the native muscadine are recorded. Gaze came to Fiorelli by what Hall considers pure luck. She had been considering relocation to be closer to grandchildren, and Fiorelli presented the perfect opportunity. She brings with her a vast knowledge of the wine industry, the skills necessary to run a business and the Southern charm needed to woo customers. And speaking of customers, because bottles of Fiorelli wine can only be bought on-site, visitors and tasters are welcomed and encouraged.

THE GRAND PAPI One of the oldest vines at the vineyard, “Gran Papi” is rumored to be the first vine planted on the property by Antonio Fiorelli and is estimated to be about 23 years old. Although the elder still produces grapes, its fruit is no longer suitable for winemaking.

Continued on Page 84

VINE TO GLASS Harvest grapes

Into a barrel for a rinse

De-stemmed and de-leaved via press

24 hours of maceration wallowing in juice

Back to a press to be strained from the skins

Into a plastic drum with yeast and sugar for three weeks of fermentation

Moved to a stainless steel tank to sit on its “lees” for three-to-six months.

When fermentation is complete, the muscadine wine is blended with other finished wines

It’s then siphoned to the bottler machine, where it goes into the bottle

Onto the cork press, labeled and foiled, and voila! Ready to drink

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Together we strengthen healthcare. 941.917.1286 | smhf.org A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE 1-800-435-7352 WITHIN THE STATE OR BY VISITING www.freshfromflorida.com/divisions-offices /consumer-services. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. (REGISTRATION #CH103) THE HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION WILL USE THE FUNDS FOR THE STATED PURPOSE BUT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO USE THE GIFT IN A MANNER CONSISTENT WITH ITS CHARITABLE PURPOSE IF THE STATED PURPOSE IS IMPOSSIBLE OR IMPRACTICAL TO ACHIEVE.

Continued from Page 82 “I love making and drinking wine, but I love the people that come in,” Hall says. “I love their reactions and how they like it — and sometimes they don’t like it.” During a recent tasting and tour, led by Gaze, the reaction of visitors is all positive. A couple celebrating their first anniversary. Friends celebrating a birthday. Lakewood Ranch residents checking out the local winery. One visitor even claims “she’s found her wine,” after saying she had never really been a wine drinker. A standard tour starts with a tasting, followed by a one-hour guided tour of the property and winemaking facility. Visitors can marvel over several intriguing and purposeful murals completed by local student artists. Catered tours are available by reservation, and Fiorelli plays host to events and is a popular place to hold weddings. The season’s grape harvest is complete until next summer, but in the meantime, Hall and Gaze invite people to come enjoy the property, events and

of course the wine, including the recent release of a fruit-forward white they named Siesta Sands. “It’s a light, oaked chardonnay made with the Carlos muscadine grapes,” says Gaze. “A full-bodied white dry wine with soft tannins.” Disappointingly, in late October, Hall made the difficult decision to put the winery up for sale, hoping to spend more time with his young family. Still, the Fiorelli staff is continuously working toward bringing attention to the somewhat under-the-radar area jewel. In fact, Hall is quick to say he still loves what he does and considers it “business as usual” until the winery eventually transitions to a new owner. With any luck, Hall will stay on board. Fiorelli has events booked through spring 2020. As for the future of the local wine scene, the only other vineyard in Manatee County is Bunker Hill Vineyard and Winery, about a 30-minute northeast drive from Fiorelli Winery. “I’d love to see Florida be an upand-coming wine region,” Hall says. “I would love if there were five more wineries down the road.”

Jack Brockman and Morgan Mirandilla celebrate their first anniversary as a couple with a tour and tasting (above). The earthy scent after a summer rain was vintner Erik Hall’s inspiration for the Arid Red (right).

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SPOTLIGHTING LIFE ON THE RANCH

A classic golf course clock announces tee time at this lavish estate in The Lake Club. PAGE 88

TOP OF THE LINE Toys and treasures abound in a Lake Club showplace. BY BOB PLUNKET | CONTRIBUTOR

LWR LIFE

ou would expect a lot from the most expensive home in Lakewood Ranch, and the Verble residence in The Lake Club delivers the goods — and then some. To be sure, you’ll find the usual amenities of a multimillion dollar home. There’s the requisite wine room (but this one holds 1,000 bottles), the elaborate master suite (this one has four separate rooms) and even some hard-to-find rarities (a tennis court).

It’s what you don’t expect — in fact, never dreamed of — that makes this house so remarkable. Like the eighth of a mile jogging track. Or the “car museum” with room for four of the owner’s most prized trophies, including the ultimate Corvette. Or most remarkable, the private golf course, an ingeniously designed space with five different tees, a putting green and even a classic golf course clock. “It’s perfect for sharpening your short game,” Mike Verble says.

The Verbles, Mike and Kathy, have a backstory even more remarkable than their house. They were married as teenagers and started life in a 32-by8-foot trailer. “It was rusty, no airconditioning, no TV,” Mike recalls. But Mike, the ultimate serial entrepreneur, was soon moving on. He began building homes, specializing in high-end models in North Carolina. Out of this grew his roofing company, North American Roofing, which became the largest commercial roofer in the country. Then

came Home Depot, where Mike’s affiliated company, Home Depot Installed Products, turned what had been basically a hardware store into a construction business that would install your kitchen and put on a new roof. Then came eShopWorld, an international online shopping service. The list goes on and on, one home run after another. Mike attributes much of his success to Kathy. “She’s my sounding board,”

Ceilings soar to 22 feet in the spacious antique-filled living room. The fireplace mantel is hand-carved walnut.

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Continued on Page 92

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Continued from Page 90 he says. “She’s been with me every step of the way.” He also credits his mother. “She was the original risk-taker, and that’s the secret: being willing to take a risk.” The Verbles have a house in Asheville but had long enjoyed a second home on North Manasota Key. When they decided to head inland, they found a lot in The Lake Club and hired John Cannon Homes to build a residence of their own design. It’s Italian in style and comes in at over 9,000 square feet. Unusually for such a large home, it’s all one floor. There is an almost overwhelming feeling of space in the house. Nothing is cramped; no corners were cut. The ceiling in the great room is

22 feet high. Even secondary rooms like the study are large. The master suite really is a suite, an entire wing, in fact. It has its own study, plus a separate office, the bedroom itself — with an enormous bath and room-size closets, naturally — and even an octagonal space that serves as a “doggie bedroom” for the Verbles’ two large dogs. (The two smaller dogs cuddle up with the couple themselves.) Dogs are a motif throughout the home, with numerous paintings and drawings hung on the walls. At one point, Mike raised Irish wolfhounds and showed them in competition, parading them around the ring himself, a skill he learned and at which he became quite proficient. Today both he and Kathy love hiking the hills of North Carolina with their current canine family.

Sharing wall space with the dogs, plus some excellent old European paintings, you will notice music memorabilia, the result of another company Mike founded, Raintree Music Group. Through the company, he has acquired the publishing rights to a whole catalogue of country music, including songs by legends like Merle Haggard. Mike loves country music, but does he sing or play himself? “I wish I could,” he says with a sigh. The front of the home contains a vast motor court, which has proven to be a great place for the Verbles’ eight grandchildren to ride their tricycles and bikes. On one side of the court is a fourcar garage for the everyday family cars; Continued on Page 94

Clockwise from top left: In the master bath, a stand-alone tub looks out on a garden view; a game room provides entertainment for eight visiting grandkids; the private tennis court; and in the car museum, a rare Corvette is the owner’s pride and joy.

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Continued from Page 92 on the other side is the boutique-sized car museum, marbled floored, with a seating area and an amazing Steinway piano, custom-made of Macassar ebony. Here the cream of Mike’s car collection is displayed, including a white Rolls Royce (Kathy’s car), a rare Porsche and the holy grail of the entire collection, an ultra rare, only 15 were made, 1963 Z06 Corvette, immortalized in the Beach Boys iconic song “Shut Down.” In addition to the master suite, the home has four other bedrooms, each with private baths. The Verbles often have guests, particularly family, and in addition to housing them all, the home also entertains them — and in an unparalleled fashion. “You could say we built the place for the grandkids,” Mike explains. “There are so many things to do.” He’s not kidding. There’s the pool and spa, set in a vast outdoor living area where the screening extends 35 feet high. Then there is the tennis court, the Continued on Page 96 The oversized outdoor living area offers a pool and spa, plus an outdoor kitchen and plenty of seating.

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Continued from Page 94 billiard room, the arcade games, the basketball court, the gymnasium, the jogging track and the most amazing amenity of all, the private golf course. It’s not really a course but rather an ingenious game and a practice area that Mike designed with the help of a professional golf course designer. Five different tees offer a variety of challenging shots. It’s built on a slight bermed elevation, surrounded by the jogging track and hidden from the neighbors by carefully planted magnolia trees — 58 of them — and other Southern vegetation. The total lot area is 2.46 acres. When most couples with a large home decide to move, it’s usually to downsize. Not so for the Verbles. They have put their Lake Club home on the market for $5,995,000 and are currently building a new home in Asheville that will come in at more than 17,000 square feet. Like the Verbles’ adventurous life, it’s the embodiment of a spectacular American dream that began in a rusty trailer 53 years ago The informal family room adjoins the kitchen. A fireplace and beamed ceiling add to the rustic feeling. and only keeps getting bigger.

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After Dark Feel like staying up past your bedtime?

The good news is you’re an adult, so you don’t have one! For those of you enjoy the dark, here’s a short list of clubs and pubs that awaken the nocturnal animal in us all.

SU BYRON CONTRIBUTOR

Night owls looking to salsa until the wee hours flock to The Venue on St. Armands Circle. On Fridays and Saturdays, the joint is jumping until 2 a.m. with sizzling Latin bands, and a deft DJ spins Latin dance tunes on Sunday nights. Weekday evenings are a rainbow of genre-bending musical talent. Al Hixon and his band kick up a New Orleans jazz spirit on Mondays; local bands jam Tuesdays and Wednesdays. For a special treat, jazz and R&B song stylist Katt Heffner turns up the heat with her “Lady K’s Jazz Cookbook+” on alternate Thursdays. Heffner and her hand-selected guest artists serve up a gumbo of tasty sounds. If all that fun makes you famished, no worries. The Venue’s kitchen stays open until midnight Saturday and Sunday and until 10 p.m. on weeknights. The gourmet burgers and artisanal pizzas are always a hit. 15 S. Boulevard of the Presidents, Sarasota; 941-388-1555; VenueSRQ.com. Art Ovation Hotel offers two late-night spots. For a civilized sip, try the Gallery Lounge, where you can enjoy works by regional artists, listen to great live jazz and enjoy crafty cocktails and light bites until 9 p.m. On a date? Cuddle up in the cozy cushions with a bottle of Veuve Clicquot and grilled oysters. For an elevated experience, move up to the Perspective Rooftop Pool Bar, where you can sip and sup under the twinkling stars and view the illuminated cityscape until midnight. “The Ringling” is the ideal cocktail to accompany your nighttime contemplations. Created with rum and injected with anise-flavored absinthe,

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it’s as dreamy as the star-studded sky. 1255 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota; 941-316namic bar scene, superb late-night 0808; ArtOvationHotel.com. menu, creative cocktails and live jazz If you’re looking for lively music, great most evenings until 11 p.m. Local jazz beer and companionship, Craft Growl- heroes include pianist Michael Royal ers To Go and Tasting Room is the and pianist and vocalist Debbie Keeton. place to be. This intimate pub boasts 45 5540 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key; beers on tap and live music three days 941-387-0495; EuphemiaHaye.com. a week. (It rotates the brews weekly, so the selection is always open for discovery.) Owner Jeanne Dooley does her best DON’T MISS THIS! to bring spirit of the fictional “Cheers” Here are a few of our favorite things bar into the real world. Yes, everybody happening under the radar. knows your name — including the bartenders and servers. Bands include the The “Syd Solomon: Concealed and Michael Weiss Trio and the Gabriel Revealed” exhibit at The Ringling Brothers. The grill serves excellent pub reveals many stunning examples of Syd grub (ask for the Jamwich, a toasty de- Solomon’s oeuvre — many shown to the light with cashew butter, raspberry jam public for the first time. The museum’s and bacon) and stays open until 11 p.m. connection to the artist dates to 1962, 8141 Lakewood Main St., Unit N103; 941- when his work became the nucleus of its emerging contemporary art collection. 822-8131; CraftGrowlersToGo.com. Solomon’s art defies category — except Grove: Restaurant Patio and Ball- the witty label the artist created for room has fast become Lakewood himself. He called himself an “abstract Ranch’s favorite late night hot spot, with impressionist,” reflecting his fusion a happy hour from 10 p.m. until midnight. of abstract expressionism and Happy yet? You will be with the potent impressionism. Solomon’s paintings craft cocktails, top-shelf liquor and most also reflected his experience as a beers for $5 — or try the flights for $15 camouflage designer in World War (the On the Lash, with Teeling Small II and his mastery of calligraphy Batch, Teeling Single Grain and Teeling and graphic design. But Solomon’s Single Malt is definitely not your tra- main influence was Florida itself and ditional bedtime toddy). The inventive the magnificent vistas both above menu comes from Executive Chef Greg and below our region’s shimmering Campbell of Bradenton’s Pier 22. During waters. This powerful exhibit brings happy hour, the selection includes fried it all together. Dec. 15 to April 26; The pickles, flatbreads, mussels and tuna na- Ringling; 941-359-5700; Ringling.org. chos. 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood “Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Ranch; 941-893-4321; GroveLWR.com. Orient Express” is a killer comedy Euphemia Haye is famed for its formal and the ultimate locked-room mystery. gourmet fare. But formal’s only normal In this case, the “room” is The Orient downstairs. Upstairs at the Hayeloft, Continued on Page 100 the vibe chills out. You step into a dy-

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Bradenton East Integrative Medicine

Continued from Page 98 Express — a gleaming luxury train for the global elite. What could possibly go wrong? Well, for starters, a snowstorm that stops the liner. After that, the discovery of a corpse in a cabin that’s been locked from the inside. An unpleasant American industrialist has apparently been repeatedly stabbed. Quelle horreur! Who could possibly do such a thing? For what motive? Fortunately, detective Hercule Poirot is on the train. He’ll find the answer, bien sûr. This Asolo Rep production of Ken Ludwig’s adaptation is sure to be a moving experience. Jan. 8 through March 8; FSU Center for the Performing Arts; 941-351-8000; AsoloRep.org.

Family Practice with an Integrative Approach When choosing your healthcare provider, consider a physician who sees YOU as a Whole Person, NOT A SET OF SYMPTOMS.

“From Downton to Gatsby: Jewelry and Fashion from 1890-1929”

In 2012, the producers of “Downton Abbey” commissioned Andrew Prince (right) to create a vast collection of period-accurate tiaras, combs, earrings and necklaces for the main characters. Needless to say, his artistry dazzled. Prince’s in-depth knowledge of jewelry, fashion and history has made him a popular lecturer throughout England and the U.S. In this New Topics lecture at New College, Prince will explore the opulent age between 1890 and 1929 — a time when the world’s finest couturiers and jewelers collaborated to create unmatched style and artistry. 5:30 p.m. Jan. 23; New College’s Mildred Sainer Auditorium; 941-4874888; NCF.edu/new-topics.

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Riccardo Muti (left) has earned a reputation as “the maestro of maestros,” and we have the rare opportunity to witness him conducting the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in celebration of the Sarasota Concert Association’s 75th anniversary. In keeping with his fierce devotion to excellence, Muti will conduct two incandescent pieces by Sergei Prokofiev: “Suite from Romeo and Juliet” and Symphony No. 3, Op. 44, from “The Fiery Angel.” 7:30 p.m. Feb. 12; Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall; 941-25-6500; SCASarasota.org.

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the jolly rancher

The Holiday Roller Coaster Thoughts on surviving the steep ups and downs of the holidays, finishing the ride and actually looking forward to next year.

BY GABRIEL JIVA RIVERWALK RESIDENT AND DAD TO SONS ALEXANDER (ABOVE) AND FREDERICK

t has become clear to me that a big part of the holiday spirit is the predictable delivery of cheer on tap. If the season had just a general feeling of goodwill toward people, it wouldn’t be as much of a thing to look forward to. But the fact that there are specific cheerful traditions that, aside from something like an alien landing, are guaranteed to occur, that’s what makes the holiday season great. Traditions like putting up a Christmas tree and the lights outside and attending Christmas parties and the requisite church service all the way to the smell of your favorite dessert wafting from the oven and family visiting from out of town or you visiting them. My wife and I now have small kids, and, of course, we’ve adopted many of the traditions we’re used to from our own childhoods. Traditions that I might confess lasted into my 30s for me. As a bachelor, I always went home for the holiday and lazed about for the week between Christmas and New Year while enjoying being doted on, sleeping in and not having a care in the world except which childhood friend I’d be seeing that day. That lazing about is now a distant dream, with the kids home from school that entire week, waking up at 5:45 a.m. and demanding attention. Now it’s all about creating their childhood memories, right? So we decorate the house, and we go to a dozen holiday displays, shows and events. Family flies and drives in. We host a Christmas lunch, and along the way, we’ve managed to create some budding traditions of our own. For instance, I made a buche de Noel one year, otherwise known as a yule log cake, because I saw a beautiful Continued on Page 104

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In total anticipation of its contents, Alexander embraces his full stocking and a skeleton that he kept requesting from Santa that December.

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Continued from Page 102 picture of one and thought our oldest would like it, and I fancy myself a baker. Well, it was a hit. So now — darn my amazing baking skills — my hands are basically forced to make it every year. We also went to Marie Selby Botanical Gardens one year for Lights in Bloom, which was amazing, so now we do that every year. Oh, and we accidentally trespassed on someone’s property and made good use of their play set one year, so now we do that as well. I’m kidding on that last one, but this is how traditions are made. Whether by accident or by hope, you do something and see that it is good, so then the next year it just becomes part of the answer to, “How are we repeating the greatest hits from last year?” There’s the buying of the tree; the visiting of various Santas, Christmas villages and displays; the adorning of the yard; the planning of the gatherings; the unearthing of the holiday movies; and the buying of groceries, which always includes delightful items that we never otherwise stock, such as currants, confectioner’s sugar and

sweetened condensed milk. This is probably a product of my poor planning skills, but I don’t think I’ve slept more than four hours on Christmas Eve since I became a parent. For better or worse — probably for better — there’s no shortage of holiday “stuff,” so there persists an ever-growing list of amazing ideas that we can cram into Advent season. Since our first child could recognize Christmas, all of our December weekends have been carefully planned and scheduled before Target got its first shipment of inflatable Santas. And at this point, it probably wouldn’t hurt if the whole month were overseen by a project management professional. And it doesn’t stop with the big day either: It’s not until the family’s gone back home, until everyone’s back at work and school, until the new year wipes the slate clean (and the HOA has made us take our lights down) that it all returns to somewhat normal. Otherwise known as the uneventful, unlit, unmagical rest of the year. All of a sudden, the hustle and bustle is very noticeably absent. It’s like the sweet adrenaline rush of the Christmas

season has gone, which on the one hand is good because how long can you keep up that pace? But on the other hand, I miss it. And I almost immediately — after having caught up on some sleep and actually having found myself getting bored a couple of times — look forward to the hubbub next year. It’s like the house in “Home Alone” at the beginning of the movie, with all the cousins and craziness, versus when Kevin wakes up the next day, all alone. Yes, the gleeful craziness is unsustainable, but it absolutely has a place — a limited place, but one that we look forward to year after year.

Thanks to the success of my first attempt at buche de Noel (yule log cake), I am now committed to making it every year.

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OCT. 21 AT GOLD COAST EAGLE DISTRIBUTING BENEFITING SISTERHOOD FOR GOOD

Registration for our winter and spring courses begins December 10!

EINSTEIN’S CIRCLE A discussion of timely and topical issues.

FEB. 5: Full Speed Ahead: Back to the Moon! MODERATOR: KENNETH BECHIS

FEB. 19: Stalin and Roosevelt, Gorbachev and Reagan, Putin and Trump MODERATOR: ROBERT TOPLIN

Photos by Jay Heater

Above: Sisterhood for Good’s Kathy Fraley presents a designer purse to Lakewood Ranch’s Valerie Demino after she won the second game of Bingo. Right: Bambi Forristall, the Meals on Wheels Plus chair and president of Forristall Enterprises, was hoping to upgrade her purse at the event.

MAR. 4: Changing the Face of Sarasota: The Little Town That Keeps Growing Bigger MODERATOR: GRETCHEN SCHNEIDER

MAR. 18: The Deconstruction of Reconstruction and the Long Walk Back MODERATOR: DAVID WILKINS

APR. 1: A 2020 Toss Up? What the Primaries Are Telling Us

Left: April Costello and Debbie Dannheisser look at the fashion line that Dannheisser, a Sisterhood for Good member, designed for Costello's LimbLaugh-Love of Florida nonprofit.

MODERATOR: SUSAN MACMANUS The Zelniker Dorfman Group UBS Financial Services Inc.

Ringling College Museum Campus • 1001 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota www.OLLIatRinglingCollege.org • 941-309-5111

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CASINO NIGHT FUNDRAISER NOV. 2 AT THE LAKE CLUB GRANDE CLUBHOUSE BENEFITING LAKEWOOD RANCH YMCA Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club residents Heather and Greg Shepard thought the event would be a fun way to check out The Lake Club community.

Photos by Pam Eubanks

Above: Kristen Nesser, Lara Cosgrove, Allison Ulrich and Jennifer Pintacuda visit the poker tables together. Left: Anthony Leesbott deals Mill Creek’s Brian Pintacuda with a game of blackjack.

EXPAND your mind at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature Blast off. Dive deep. Be curious. From a microscopic cell to a far away galaxy, we are all connected to each other, the cosmos, and the world around us. The South Florida Museum is now…

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*Up to four (4) admissions. Not valid with any other discounts or special offers. Expires 12/31/2020

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asolorep world class theatre • made in sarasota

NFL punter, retired SWAT police ofﬁcer and tough guy. But a freak accident by his pool left Charlie Lee centimeters away from a life-threatening injury. He got help from Doctors Hospital of Sarasota ER in Lakewood Ranch and now he’s back in the game.

“The loveliest musical imaginable.” — New York World-Telegram and Sun

NOV 16 – DEC 28 Previews Nov. 14-15

Learn more about his experience at www.DoctorsofSarasota.com

Music by RICHARD RODGERS Lyrics by OSCAR HAMMERSTEIN II

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THE MARKET OPENING DAY NOV. 3 AT LAKEWOOD RANCH MEDICAL CENTER

Photos by Jay Heater

Myakka’s Gold Apiary Owner Jim Cutway gives Lakewood Ranch’s Ethan Quinn, 7, and Olivia Quinn, 5, a sample of his honey.

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Stan Writesel & Baylee

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Alan Gravley & Beau

Beginning to End Interiors & Blinds 941.924.4481 | www.B2END.com | 4453 Ashton Road, Unit C Sarasota, FL 34233 LWR LIFE

Above: Worker Joe Hanchett and Owner Richard Olson sell Stamper Cheese at the market. Left: Van Balam, who had a knife-sharpening booth at the market at the Sarasota Polo Club last year, has added his own handcrafted pottery this year.

JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI LOUNGE

DARUMA Enjoy superb Japanese cuisine that is fun, fascinating and delicious. Choose between our Traditional dining or Hibachi table-side cooking by classically trained chefs. Select from our Traditional Japanese favorites and innovative combinations such as Shrimp Teriyaki, Tempura, Sesame Chicken, Filet Mignon, Seafood and much more. Our Sushi lounge has freshly prepared selections made to your order. Savor Japanese delights like sashimi, sushi and makimono. Relax with a craft signature cocktail or enjoy an after dinner drink in our friendly piano lounge. Visit Daruma tonight for an elegant dining experience! 297723-1

JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI LOUNGE

Sarasota North | 941.342.6600 Sarasota South | 941.552.9465 darumarestaurant.com

5459 FRUITVILLE ROAD | 941.342.6200 5459 FRUITVILLE ROAD | 941.342.6200

ED’S TAVERN

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10719 Rodeo Dr, Lakewood Ranch 941.907.0400 | facebook.com/edstavernlwr

GROVE - RESTAURANT, PATIO & BALLROOM GROVE specializes in a wide-ranging selection of house made dishes that emphasize fresh seasonal ingredients and carefully crafted cocktails that are elevated, yet approachable. Overlooking the charming Main Street center, at Grove there’s room for everyone at the table! Gathering spaces include a casual patio, a relaxing lounge, intimate private rooms and a lively, modern bar. Stop in for our Daily Happy Hour from 3-7 pm!

LV18437

Lakewood Ranch at Main Street

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10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch 941.893.4321 | GroveLWR.com

DINING OUT

A Jersey Joint in Lakewood Ranch, Ed’s Tavern is the perfect blend of local neighborhood sports bar and family friendly restaurant right in the heart of Main Street (next to the movie theater). We’re the only lakefront dining in Lakewood Ranch! The menu has something for everyone, from Southern favorites like pulled pork and fried pickles to our authentic New Jersey classics like open-faced sandwiches and disco fries. Our newly remodeled full-service bar now includes 26 ice cold draft selections plus over 26 flat screen TVs. Daily Specials, Trivia every Wednesday and Thursday. Live Music every Friday & Saturday night. Mon - Thur 11am - 12am, Fri - Sat 11am - 2am, Sun 11am - 11pm.

HANA SUSHI LOUNGE Combining art with traditional Asian cuisine and service to create a unique culinary experience in Lakewood Ranch is what we at Hana Sushi Lounge strive for each day. With a fusion of artful sushi, inspired kitchen items and handcrafted cocktails, there is always something for everyone to enjoy. No matter the occasion, our friendly and knowledgeable staff look forward to making your visit special every time. Happy Hour Every Sun - Thurs, 4pm - 7pm.

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8126 Lakewood Main St, Lakewood Ranch 941.907.1290 | facebook.com/HanaSushiLounge

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Keke’s Breakfast Cafe is a full-service restaurant dedicated to providing an outstanding breakfast and lunch experience; a meal where everything is handmade, using the best ingredients available, with fresh fruit, vegetables, bread and dairy products. Some favorite Keke’s dishes are the Florida Pancakes, topped with fresh strawberries, banana, blueberries and powdered sugar; the Banana, Nut & Caramel Waffle, which features banana and pecans baked in the waffle, topped with more banana, pecans, caramel and powdered sugar; an extensive amount of omelet options such as Greek, Three Meat, and Hawaiian omelets, as well as a complete lunch menu. Additionally, a musthave at every Keke’s visit is a serving of our fresh, hand cut, redskin potato home-fries.

5405 University Pkwy #104, University Park 941.388.8953 | kekes.com

MACALLISTERS Enjoy our tavern atmosphere along with some traditional Scottish favorites: fish & chips and shepherd’s pie. Of course, our bar includes a large selection of scotch and local craft brews on draft with daily happy hour! We are conveniently located on Lakewood Main Street with outdoor patio dining! Kids welcome! Open for lunch & dinner seven days a week. Sun - Thurs 11:30am - 10pm Fri - Sat 11:30am - 11pm.

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8110 Lakewood Main St, Lakewood Ranch 941.359.2424 | macallisters.com LV18438

DINING OUT

KEKE’S BREAKFAST CAFE

MAIN STREET TRATTORIA

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Opened in 2010 by owner Gary Fennessy, Main Street Trattoria in Lakewood Ranch features fresh Italian cuisine, including their signature bruschetta focaccia, chicken milanese and hand-tossed thin crust pizza. Make sure you save room for homemade tiramisu and cappuccino for dessert. Mr. Fennessy has created a one-of-a-kind experience for friends and family to gather and dine together. Enjoy our inside/outside bar, including our outdoor dining area. You will find live music every Wednesday-Saturday 6-10pm and Sunday 4-8pm. Happy Hour Daily 2-7pm. Takeout and Kids menu also available.

8131 Lakewood Main St #101, Lakewood Ranch 941.907.1518 | mstrattoria.com

PASCONE’S RISTORANTE’ Welcome to an Unforgettable Dining Experience! Voted #1 Italian Restaurant in Sarasota! Family owned Pascone’s Ristorante’ recreates recipes passed down from generations. Enjoy Italian classic cuisine from many regions of Italy and unique specialties. Pascone’s Ristorante’ offers an extensive list of international wines and innovative cocktails. Outside Patio Dining. Private Dining Room for Special Functions. Dine at the Bar with Full Bar Service Happy Hour: 4:30pm - 6:30pm Everyday Hours: Sunday - Thursday 4:30pm to 9:30pm Friday and Saturday 4:30pm to 10:00pm Reservations 941.210.7368 319584-1

Located in “The Market” corner of Honore & University

Reservations online at Pascones.com

SPEAKS CLAM BAR SPEAKS CLAM BAR

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Fresh seafood and house-made pasta makes this

seafood restaurant with an Italian flair stand Fresh seafood and house-made pastaout. Unique prohibition era theme. Full bar serving makes this seafood restaurant with an Craft Cocktails. Casual and family friendly. Italian flair stand out. Unique prohibition Open daily for lunch and dinner. era theme. Fulltobar serving Craft Cocktails. Sunday’s 12pm 10pm, Mondayand thru family Thursday 11am to 10pm, Casual friendly. Friday and Saturday 11am to 11pm

Open daily lunch and dinner. Sunday’s For Take Out:for Order Online At SpeaksClamBar.com 12pm to 10pm, Monday thru Thursday 11am LAKEWOOD RANCH to 10pm, Friday and Saturday 11am to 11pm 8764 E State Rd 70, Bradenton ST. ARMANDS CIRCLE 29 N Blvd Of Presidents Sarasota 941.232.7633 Sarasota

941.232.7633 For Take Out: Order Online At SpeaksClamBar.com

LV18439

320559-1

941.232.7646

LAKEWOOD RANCH ST EARMANDS 8764 State Rd 70 CIRCLE Bradenton 941.232.7646 29 N Blvd Of Presidents,

DINING OUT

5239 University Pkwy, University Park

PARTING GLANCE 114

LWR LIFE

Gordon Silver took this photo of deer in Lakewood Ranch.

Experience a California Closets system custom designed specifically for you and the way you live. Visit us online or in our showroom today to learn about our current savings event.

SARASOTA

727.573.0700 californiaclosets.com

1411 1st St Suite 1014, Sarasota, FL 34236 TAMPA 2606 W Kennedy Blvd TAM PA 2606 W Kennedy Blvd SAR AS OTA 1411 1st St

727.573.0700

californiaclosets.com 320363-1

FL031_Haven_9x10.8_0819.indd 1

7/29/19 10:48 AM

TOUR SIX MODELS TODAY!

WHERE YOU LIVE MATTERS THE HOMES AT INDIGO Lakewood Ranch is one of Southwest Florida’s most thoughtful and connected communities—and Indigo is one of its most sought-after villages! With gated entry, a community pool, an array of activities and amenities, and a variety of stunning Neal homes, you’ll find everything that matters to you at Indigo. And that matters a lot. • Low Community Fees, Including Maintenance • Floorplans from 1,407 to 2,980 sq. ft. • 2-5 Bedrooms and 2-3.5 Baths • 2- & 3-Car Garages • Recreation Center with Pool, Spa, Fitness Room, and Classes

Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211

64 LORRAINE RD

3420 SKY BLUE COVE

LAKEWOOD RANCH BLVD

• Pickleball and Bocce Ball Courts

44TH AVE

Exit 217 to State Rd. 70 East. Left on Lakewood Ranch Blvd. Right on 44th Ave. Left on White Eagle Blvd. Indigo will be on the right.

Single-Family Homes from the Low $300s – Mid $500s Villas from the High $200s AT L A K E W O O D R A N C H

941.212.0138 | NealCommunities.com

Prices and availability subject to change without notice. CBC1256375