Sarasota Observer 12.11.14

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Urbanite Theatre kick-starts final fundraising push.

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DIVERSIONS

Army Corps re-evaluates groin slated for South Lido Park. PAGE 3A

neighborhood watch

A Siesta Key home was the birthplace of a Florida crime novel. INSIDE

by David Conway | News Editor

Gillespie residents seek solutions

Residents in the Gillespie Park area are looking to city officials and police leaders for help addressing problems associated with a growing homeless population in the neighborhood.

Courtesy photo

Deputy Chief Steve Moyer, Chief Bernadette DiPino, Roger Ralph and Nate Brown

+ Stepping up to the plate

Residents in the Gillespie Park area are tired of waiting for help on issues tied to a growing homeless population in the area. Now, they’re looking for ways to fix it themselves.

On Monday, the Original Gillespie Park Neighborhood Association held a meeting that focused on a growing concern

among residents. During the past three months, people in the area have noticed an increasingly large gathering of individuals at Gillespie Park, particularly within the park’s pavilion along Osprey Avenue.

With this group of about 30 people comes a host of problems, residents say — ranging from lit-

tering and the use of profanity to prostitution and drug dealing.

Although the residents believe a majority of the crowd to be homeless, they said the neighborhood hasn’t had issues with homeless people in the past.

“We’re not concerned with who the people are,” said Dale Orlando, treasurer of the association.

“We’re concerned with the behaviors they’re exhibiting.”

As a result, they appealed to city officials and Sarasota Police Department leaders to help crack down on those issues. More than a month has passed since the issue first surfaced, however, and

SEE PARK / PAGE 2A

The Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County teamed up to bring the anti-bullying event Rachel’s Challenge to Sarasota Dec. 3.

Through Rachel’s Challenge, members of the community were encouraged to promote kindness and compassion with the hope of improving school climate and discouraging bulling. The event was held at the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex, and the programming was made possible by a donation of $5,000 from the Sarasota Police Department.

The Rachel’s Challenge antibullying program made stops at Booker High School and the McBean Boys & Girls Club earlier in the day.

PEACE SIGN Amanda Morales

Amanda Morales

Cameron and Katie Morton with their daughter, Hannah

+ Helping out by working out Few workouts help a good cause and provide a good sweat at the same time.

Saturday morning, more than a 100 participants came out to the Westfield Southgate Mall to work out with Stephen and Claire Kelley from Stephen Kelley fitness. The hour-long boot camp workout featured a fire truck pull incorporated into the circuit training. All proceeds from the workout will benefit 2-yearold Hannah Morton and her family. Hannah was born with Pierre Robin Syndrome and has already undergone 12 procedures, with more expected.

Along with the workout, participants also bid on silent auction items.

Grace Hullinger promotes peace on Earth from the float for the Sarasota Tabernacle Christian School Saturday, at the Downtown Sarasota Holiday Parade. Thousands of onlookers lined the street in anticipation of the parade that included an estimated 100 floats, marching bands and groups walking. For more photos, see page 1B.

ON THE WATERFRONT

by David Conway | News Editor

Quay sale marks key moment for bayfront A Jacksonville group has purchased the former Quay site for $27 million.

The sale may allow for a cohesive development of the city’s bayfront.

The sale of the former Sarasota Quay site could have a significant impact on the future of the area, particularly at a moment when the city is attempting to map out the development of its own bayfront land.

GreenPointe Communities, a subsidiary of Jacksonvillebased GreenPointe Holdings,

announced its purchase of the Quay property for $27 million in a statement Friday. The 13.9acre bayfront parcel, located near Fourth Street, has been vacant since 2007 after a planned mixeduse development fell through.

GreenPointe said it will move forward with planning and design on a project that can link

downtown with the Arts District and will include residential, commercial, retail and hospitality elements. GreenPointe bought the site from the Irish government, which owned the property following a foreclosure.

“Our company is poised to

SEE QUAY / PAGE 10A

BY THE NUMBERS 13.9 acres — total size of the property 42 acres — size of the cityowned bayfront land for which Sarasota Bayfront 20:20 is developing a master plan 695 — number of residential units the property is currently zoned for

INDEX Opinion.................8A Classifieds .......... 8B

Cops Corner..........9A Crossword............ 7B

Permits................ 5B Real Estate.......... 4B

Sports................ 17A Weather............... 7B

Vol. 11, No. 3 | Three sections YourObserver.com

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

PARK / FROM PAGE 1A not much has changed at the park. Rather than wait idly by, residents are brainstorming potential paths toward solving the problem themselves.

Demolition Plan

One such solution would stop the problem where it begins, proponents say: Demolish the Gillespie Park pavilion.

Residents at Monday’s meeting said the pavilion has led to headaches for years, and would be underutilized even if the homeless individuals weren’t occupying it.

When the group attempted to gauge support for demolition, the majority of those in attendance — more than a dozen people — raised their hands in favor of removing the pavilion.

Lee DeLieto Jr., president of the Original Gillespie Park Neighborhood Association, said that could be the right move for the area, but questioned whether it would address the root issue.

“Say the pavilion is now gone,” DeLieto Jr. said. “Has that solved the vagrancy issue?”

Residents found themselves grappling with that question. David Brain, a professor at New College of Florida, said there were underlying problems that could continue to fester even if the park were made less hospitable for the individuals camped out throughout the day.

The real issue, Brain said, is that a group of people — many of whom may not actually be homeless — are using the homeless individuals to support and mask illicit activity such as drug dealing. The focus should be on addressing that issue rather than removing an asset in the park, he said.

“I think it’s a shame to talk about getting rid of a public space,” Brain said. “I do not think it will solve the problem.”

Keeping active

Even with the arrival of the undesirable crowd, residents still use the pavilion at least twice a week. Linda Jacob helps organize gatherings at the pavilion every

David Conway

Sarasota Police Department Chief Bernadette DiPino, middle, speaks at Monday’s meeting of the Original Gillespie Park Neighborhood Association. Several residents said they wanted to see more police presence in the neighborhood to discourage illicit activity at the park, but DiPino said staffing levels pose a serious challenge for the department.

Wednesday and Friday as part of a larger after-school program in the park.

That program is tied to the Gillespie Park Reading Room, which opened in the park’s police substation in May. Filled with donated books, craft supplies and board games, the room is a key to how residents can help restore the park to its previous state, Jacob believes.

“If we want the park to be ours, we have to be in it,” Jacob said.

By permitting the use of the pavilion from the city, Jacob was able to lay her semiweekly claim to the space. Now, she says, the individuals in the area have a Pavlovian response to her arrival at the park, leaving as soon as they see her pull up. If more eyes are on the park and more people are in the area, Jacob believes it will help discourage illegal activity.

Orlando is hoping to follow Jacob’s example by creating similar programming and space for adults through her nonprofit, Arts and Education. Residents expressed an interest in taking yoga or martial arts classes at the park, and agreed that

the area could benefit from additional activity.

“We’d like to be in the park,” Orlando said. “We’d like the park to be used for arts, teaching, education and training programs.”

As a potential corresponding move, Orlando suggested one of the organizations tied to the area could lease part or all of the park to help enforce more stringent regulations and reserve the space.

Community policing

As it stands, some residents are upset with the level of attention police have given the issues at the park. Rachel Vrancken, a Gillespie Park resident and recent victim of a burglary, was critical of the police response to crime in the area.

“My concern was, watching the crime — people dealing crack, stuff being stolen — I was questioning where time is being spent,” Vrancken said.

Sarasota Police Department Chief Bernadette DiPino said that, though crime statistics are down in the Gillespie Park

area, she was still focused on addressing any perceived issues. The patrol officer assigned to the area has been instructed to pay particular attention to the park, DiPino said, but the department’s staffing levels pose a challenge when it comes to diverting any additional resources to the area.

Capt. Pat Robinson, commander of the SPD patrol division, said an active community can help complement the police presence in the area. Volunteering and neighborhood watch participation has been at a higher level when similar issues have affected Gillespie Park in the past, Robinson said, and have helped eliminate those problems.

At Monday’s meeting, several residents said they’d be willing to volunteer if it would help solve the issues in the area.

Robinson said participation in police programs often varies depending on the severity of neighborhood issues.

“It ebbs and flows by virtue of who does or doesn’t live in the neighborhood,” Robinson said. “It gets to be a big thing, and then issues self regulate, and then it goes down. That’s kind of where we’re at — we’re at a low point.”

One tool the SPD is choosing not to use is an overtime patrol, which has been implemented in response to similar issues in the downtown area. DiPino said the problems linked to the homeless gatherings have simply moved from location to location, and that she was more interested in addressing the underlying issues.

“If I felt overtime would work again in this case, I would authorize it in a heartbeat,” DiPino said. “The problems just shuffle to another park — all we keep doing is shuffling.”

Although she disputed claims that the neighborhood wasn’t receiving enough police attention, DiPino said the SPD would continue to work with Gillespie Park residents as they attempted to address the issues in the area.

“I understand the perception, that the crowd’s changing,” DiPino said. “My commitment to you is that we are going to continue to partner with you.”

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Dashing Through the Sand

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

beach brief

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by Jessica Salmond | Staff Writer

Army Corps re-evaluates third DID waits for spending groin slated for Lido Key clarification

The Downtown Improvement District’s future spending hinges on a City Commission decision regarding grants.

SIESTA KEY

BIG PASS

LIDO KEY

Jessica Salmond

As Lido Beach continues to erode, the city of Sarasota hopes to complete an interim, small-scale renourishment by March 2015.

Right: The Lido Key renourishment using sand from Big Pass is still at least two years from completion.

The groin planned for Ted Sperling Park may not need to be as large as the original study suggested.

DR

Although it’s not a fithe process of compiling South community input and . nal decision, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers the scope of Lido Key developing FT A is considering a reducwork the reviewer would T tion to the groin set for need to do. Then, the installation off Ted Stercounty will write up the ling Park on South Lido basis of the contract beBeach. fore selecting a firm from Laird Wreford, coastal the pre-approved list of initiatives manager for seven firms.

Sarasota County, reThrough community leased the news at the input, Wreford and his Siesta Key Association staff have identified three meeting Dec. 4. Wreford main areas of concern for Ted said he’d received the the effect of the dredge: Sperling information that afteruser experience at Ted Park noon.

Sperling Park, waterway “The Army Corps navigation and Siesta is offering up a lessKey’s beaches.

KEY intensive third groin, “We’d like to come out Groin N and a future discussion with a beautiful, renourabout if there’s even a ished Lido with no imneed,” Wreford said after Corps to submit them in Janpact to Siesta Key,” Wrethe meeting. uary. ford said at the SKA meeting.

Wreford said the third groin The Corps hadn’t given speIdeally, a firm would be had been a point of concern cifics, but the idea would be selected by January, Wreford for the community in that to see if a narrower and short- said, however if the county it might impact users’ park er third groin would help pre- decides the preselected firms experience, especially if the vent any negative impacts to are not eligible to act without groin became unburied after recreational activities on the bias, the project would have erosion — the groins will be park’s shoreline or wildlife to be put out to bid and the placed just below the surface habitat, Davis Shaw said. process would be extended of the sand. Residents have Aside from a possible re- another couple of months. voiced these concerns during design, the county has still Wreford said the dredge public meetings and work- not selected a third party in- was easily two years out from shops surrounding the Big dependent reviewer for the completion.

Pass dredge for Lido Beach Corps’ analysis of the Big Pass Catherine Luckner, a memrenourishment. dredge. The county unani- ber of SKA who has been in“They’ve heard loud and mously approved to select a volved in the community inclear that it is an issue,” third party reviewer at its Aug. put for Big Pass, said she was Wreford said about the Corps. 20 meeting, and included the glad the county sought the Alex DavisShaw, city of stipulation that community third party review.

Sarasota engineer, said nei- input would be used to define “Our whole community is ther the city nor the county the scope of work for the firm based on that Big Pass,” she had received any revised de- to complete. said. “It’s a big issue to look signs yet, but expected the Wreford said staff was in at.”

SAND SOLUTION

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The city of Sarasota asked the county for up to $1 million for Lido renourishment funds at the Sarasota County Commission’s Wednesday meeting; the request gained unanimous approval.

The large-scale renourishment project, in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is still years from completion. In the interim, the city is planning a project to repair damage from Tropical Storm Debby in 2012, with funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

In addition to FEMA funding, the city asked the county for money to be allocated from tourist tax dollars.

Debby cost Lido around 120,000 cubic yards of sand, said Alex DavisShaw, the city’s engineer and project manager. In a survey done in July, erosion had bumped the loss to 165,000 cubic yards, she said. The combination of funding sources would give the city enough money to shore up Lido Beach with about 44,000 cubic yards of sand.

Jan Thornburg, spokeswoman for the city, said the city had already put the interim project out to bid and will receive the bids back Friday. The target completion date would be the end of March, before turtle nesting season.

The Downtown Improvement District’s ongoing budgetary constraints have a new wrinkle, as the group is still unclear as to its spending authority following complaints last month.

City Attorney Robert Fournier planned to address those complaints, generated by legal consultant Michael Barfield, this week. Barfield — driven by an ongoing spat with DID board member and downtown merchant Ron Soto — questioned whether the group had the power to give grants to fund projects organized by outside organizations, as it has several times over the past year.

City staff appeared at Tuesday’s DID meeting to clarify the city’s procurement process for purchases, but the grant question remained unanswered. Purchasing Manager Mary Tucker said that, from her department’s point of view, the board was in the clear.

“It’s been an unwritten policy that you’ve been doing this,” Tucker said.

“There’s nothing on the procurement side you’ve violated.”

The grants question, then, is a matter of policy. In a meeting with city staff, Fournier said he would take the matter before the City Commission in January to determine the DID’s powers.

The board has spent tens of thousands of dollars on grants to organizations such as the Sarasota Downtown Merchants Association and the Downtown Marketing Co-op, funding downtown lighting and advertising in the process. DID Chairman Mark Kauffman said the spending was in keeping with the board’s mission, and that any potential misstep was unintentional.

“We give a donation to the police force to enhance their volunteer ambassador program,” Kauffman said. “We give a donation to the Downtown Sarasota Alliance, to the farmers market. These are all things that enhance the downtown, and we feel we should participate in it.”

As it awaits clarification on the grants, the DID is also planning for its future. DID Operations Manager John Moran outlined the potential for the group’s oft-lamented budget to dwindle even further.

A project to install flowers throughout the downtown area, which the board has been working toward for months, could cost up to $100,000, he said. A project that large — in addition to $137,000 annual payments toward 2013 Main Street improvements — could drain its reserves.

“If you have no carryover (into next year’s budget) because we spend it all, your available discretionary funding for future years is a pretty small amount,” Moran said.

More precisely, the available funding would be somewhere around $46,000, Moran said. Although some money could be freed up by ending ongoing grant payments, Moran said the only way to achieve any significant change would be to expand the boundaries of the DID, which generates money via a property tax on commercial property owners within a set area.

The group is awaiting additional pricing information before moving forward with the project to install flowers on streets within the DID, but the board’s ability to spend will ultimately have an impact on the scope of any project.

“This is a major project, and this can assimilate all of our extra money,” Kauffman said. “We really have to go over the budget to see what we’re going to be able to afford here.”

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NEWSBRIEFS + Kovach proffers televised workshop compromise Televising the afternoon portion of Sarasota County School Board workshops has been a source of tension between members of the board for months.

Bridget Ziegler, who won her board seat in November, made it one of her top priorities during her campaign, bringing it before the school board and the Sarasota County Commission during their joint meeting Sept.

30. She was met with opposition from fellow board members.

Frank Kovach discussed the issue again at the board’s work session Tuesday.

Kovach offered a compromise: Some things need informal, frank discussion, he said, but any policy or potential issue that the board would later vote on should be allocated to the televised section of the meetings.

As chair of the board, if there were something on the agenda that needed to be discussed in the morning, when it would be televised, he would rearrange the agenda, Kovach said.

Ziegler, who championed televising both portions of the board’s meetings, said she was pleased with Kovach’s solution.

“It wasn’t a contentious issue finally,” she said. “Overall, I’m excited to see something I care about moving forward.”

+ Lourdes Ramirez files suit against Bob Waechter Two years after Bob Waechter, former Sarasota GOP chairman, used Lourdes Ramirez’s name to make donations to Democratic candidates, he could be facing a civil lawsuit in federal court.

In 2012, Waechter made donations with a pre-paid debit card under Ramirez’s name to negatively affect her campaign as a Republican candidate for the Sarasota County

Commission District 4 seat, according to prosecutors. Ramirez lost to Alan Maio in the primary in August.

Waechter accepted a plea deal in December 2013. Judge Donna Berlin sentenced him to two years of probation, a $5,000 fine and three months of house arrest.

But Ramirez has not finished with her end of the issue.

Ramirez is being represented by Merritt & Sanderson, a firm in Osprey. She is suing for appropriation, misrepresentation, libel, fraud, intentional infliction of emotional distress and civil conspiracy.

Waechter directed comment to his attorney, Morgan Bentley of Bentley & Bruning. Bentley said it’s not unexpected that Ramirez filed the suit, but said it would be hard to prove she lost the race because of the fake contributions.

+ Sarasota County teen’s overdose leads to arrests A teen is recovering from an overdose after using a hallucinogenic drug, and five men are in custody following a Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office investigation of the incident.

Deputies arrested four teens and a 25-year-year-old man last weekend on a variety of narcotics charges, including possession of 25i-NBOMe, a relatively new drug similar to LSD and MDMA, also known as molly. Officers seized 26 hits of 25i, 9.1 grams of molly, roughly 60 grams of marijuana and 5.3 grams of hash, according to a Sheriff’s Office news release.

The arrests came after surveillance and undercover drug purchases, according to probable cause affidavits.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency classified 25i compounds as Schedule I illegal drugs last year, explaining that “the data suggest that extremely small amounts of these drugs can cause seizures, cardiac and respiratory arrest and death.”

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

IN THE BLACK

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by David Conway | News Editor

Urbanite Theatre kick-starts final fundraising push The Urbanite Theatre, a new arts space coming to downtown Sarasota, is drawing nearer to its fundraising goals — and to an opening date.

The future home of the Urbanite Theatre, located at 1487 Second St., has already been transformed from nothing to something.

Right now, that something is still a work in progress — a work site, with exposed metal WANT TO SEE MORE? and blue plastic lining the View the video walls of the at YourObserver. sawdust-covcom. ered space.

For Summer Wallace and Brendan Ragan, co-artistic directors of the theater, that alone represents a significant step.

“This originally was a parking lot,” Wallace said, walking beneath the theater’s recently added roof. “It was nonexistent.”

Wallace and Ragan, both alumni of the FSU/Asolo Conservatory, began the conversation that inspired the creation of the Urbanite Theatre this February. Both actors were effusive with praise about the existing theaters in Sarasota but felt passionately that something was missing.

“What we want to do is not compete with them at all,” Ragan said of the area’s theaters.

“We want to add something to the theater scene that we think

File photo

In June, Summer Wallace and Brendan Ragan posed in the parking lot that would eventually become the home of the Urbanite Theatre.

Four months from opening, the building is now nearing completion. is going to be different.”

The 50-seat black box space is designed to appeal to a younger crowd: edgier performances of more unique works, yet without the frills that many associate with a night at the theater. Rather than planning to attend an event months in advance, Wallace said the goal is for people to be able to incorporate watching a performance into their nor-

mal weekend plans on a whim.

“We hope to be the gateway drug of theater,” Wallace said. “If we can get them here, that will open up their eyes to see more.”

WANT TO DONATE? Check out the Urbanite Theatre Kickstarter online by visiting kck.st/1yQrrye.

Six months after groundbreaking, the two believe they’re on the right track. The theater has already raised $37,000, nearly 75% of its $50,000 pre-opening target. Wallace and Ragan are thankful to avoid what would be one of their biggest expenses: rent. Thanks to a benefactor, the theater has a five-year lease at the building for free.

To draw even closer to its fundraising goal, the group has launched a Kickstarter campaign, seeking at least $5,000 in crowd-funded online donations.

Since the beginning of the month, the Kickstarter has generated $3,790 from 24 donors.

Two donors, Jack Kesler and Maurice Richards, will match

“We hope to be the gateway drug of theater. If we can get them here, that will open up their eyes to see more” — Co-artistic director of the Urbanite Theatre, Summer Wallace

the donations, placing the theater just $3,000 shy of its desired grand total if it meets the $5,000 mark.

The response has come as a relief for Wallace and Ragan.

Any doubts they had about the demand for the space they were envisioning were quickly eliminated, Ragan said.

“We thought, ‘It’s missing, and maybe it’s missing for a reason,’” Ragan said. “When we decided to go for it, we were blown away by how excited people were for the idea.”

As work on the theater continues and the targeted April opening date grows closer, Wallace and Ragan have been forced to juggle two distinct duties before the project’s completion. Working out an inaugural season of performances — the list of which is almost finalized, Ragan said — and ensuring the construction is going smoothly has sometimes been a headache.

But watching the project evolve has been its own reward.

“It’s starting to feel more and more like a reality,” Wallace said.

“We’re looking forward to the artistic part.”

With 20 days left to go on the Kickstarter campaign and four months until the opening date, the two are optimistic they’ll reach their goals, based on the feedback so far.

“I think that speaks to the community here,” Ragan said.

“They’re ready for it — otherwise we wouldn’t have raised as much as we have.”

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BROOKDALE HOLIDAY Open House

After taking a step forward earlier this month, project leaders revealed Monday that the completion of Lift Station 87 could still be more than three years away — leaving nearby residents resigned to a fate of more construction.

That timeline — which would push the completion date into 2018 — represents a potential two-year delay from the targeted January 2016 completion. It would require the city to once again receive an extension to a state Department of Environmental Protection order, which mandates the project’s completion by May 2016.

Robert Garland, the project manager with engineering firm McKim & Creed, said the group had an opportunity to revisit its timeline as the design of the facility was revised. The revisions to the schedule are largely attributable to a segmented plan to complete the lift station in three phases.

Before beginning work on the construction of the lift station, the group will ensure it can complete the microtunneling efforts beneath the Hudson Bayou that caused earlier project delays.

“We want to demonstrate we’re successful at that before we invest the remainder of the money on the project,” Garland said. “I think it’s crucial to demonstrate

the crossing can be done.”

Likewise, before installing a crucial gravity sewer, McKim & Creed will wait to ensure the lift station work is going well.

Some work can be done concurrently, but the phasing will extend the process.

David Coe, a resident of the nearby Central Park II condominiums, said the delay didn’t come as a shock, given how many issues McKim & Creed had to correct. Although residents in the area would be affected, he recognized that the facility — which will handle one-third of the city’s wastewater — needed to move forward.

“I think we’re hardly surprised,” Coe said. “It’s disappointing, especially since they’ve got to start by doing more demolition.”

Since McKim & Creed took over, the project completion date has been adjusted from November 2015 to January 2016.

The consent order from the Department of Environmental Protection, originally issued in 2006, has been amended three times to push back the deadline. The project, approved in 2008, was originally slated for completion in 2011.

Garland declined to speculate on an updated completion date for Lift Station 87.

Project leaders should have a more specific timeline next month, he said.

Just In!

Tom McGurrin Collection

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SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

fired up

7A

by Jessica Salmond | Staff Writer

MDA holds first Fill the Boot drive in two years The county approved an amendment that allows the organization to reinstate its well-known fundraiser.

After a two-year hiatus caused by a change in a county ordinance, firefighters hit the streets over the weekend with boots in hand for their annual fundraiser for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

The organization was happy to see the return of the Fill the Boot campaign, which it relies on for more than 25% of its annual budget.

“We’re thrilled they’re able to go out,” said Erin Randall, the MDA fundraising coordinator for the Southwest Florida region.

In February 2013, the county passed an ordinance banning solicitations in the right of way, citing panhandling prevention and pedestrian safety.

Prior to that, the MDA held an annual boot drive, manned by volunteers from the Sarasota County Fire Department.

Representatives and supporters of MDA, including a representative of Suncoast Professional Firefighters and Paramedics, spoke at an Aug. 27 commission meeting to ask the county to reconsider the ban.

The board asked staff to look into a compromise, and staff returned to the board at the Oct. 8 meeting. Staff identified eight intersections deemed safe enough to allow someone to stand on or in the median. Organizations wanting to fundraise in the right of way were required to obtain a $10 one-time permit for each intersection.

MDA has been the only organization to apply for the permits since the amendment in October. About 60 firefighters partnered with MDA Saturday and Sunday for the boot drive.

The organization raised more than $10,000 over the weekend, but fell short of the $25,000 typically raised in the past.

Randall predicted this drive would not bring in as much as the usual drive, held

during the peak of season in March, because it was smaller and last minute. In the past, Sarasota County was usually one of the top two highest-donation Florida counties, behind Lee County.

“We’re hoping to get the Sarasota County firefighters back up to the top spot,” Randall said.

Randall remains optimistic the March boot drive will bring in more money. The organization will have more time to plan and get the word out, she said.

Tonya Smith, one of the advocates for MDA who spoke on behalf of the association at the County Commission’s August meeting, remembers seeing the firefighters fundraising during the boot drive — even before she was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy.

“It brings me joy to see them serving, and now it affects me personally,” Smith said.

The local chapter has helped her tremendously, she said, both in terms of educating her about her disease and providing support.

MDA once gave her a mobility scooter to borrow so she could take her son to

SeaWorld, Smith said. Another time the organization funded a heart test when she didn’t have health insurance.

The local chapter also helps patients in the area network together to form support groups.

“They are like a family to me,” she said.

“That fundraising gives you hope. The bottom line is loving others.”

BY THE NUMBERS

60

years MDA has partnered with the International Association of Fire Fighters for the boot drive

$10

amount it costs for a onetime permit to fundraise in medians

$25,000

amount the local MDA chapter generally raises during its drive

WHY A BOOT DRIVE? MDA has been partnering with the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) for 60 years. The idea of a boot drive fundraiser began in 1954 when a fire department in Boston pledged to help a local family who had a member with muscular dystrophy, and it raised funds by collecting money in the firefighters’ boots. Since then, the movement has grown, and fire departments across the country have joined the effort, pledging to support MDA until a cure for muscular disease is found.

Courtesy photo

Sarasota County Fire Chief Michael Regnier volunteers for the Fill the Boot fundraiser Sunday.

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

Observer opinion | our view SARASOTA

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

Friedrich Hayek “Road to Serfdom,” 1944

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Jeb Bush: true conservative?

Is former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush too moderate for the Republican Party?

That is all the talk.

But here’s a surprise: Adam C. Smith, political editor of the liberal Tampa Bay Times, authored this piece last Friday refuting with evidence that Bush as governor was “arch-conservative” and far from a “moderate squish.”

— Ed. Respected Ronald Reagan biographer Craig Shirley told the Washington Examiner recently that Jeb Bush is the latest in a line of Bushes who oppose Reaganism.

Radio host Mark Levin has dismissed Florida’s former governor as “a very good moderate Democrat,” while pioneering conservative activist Richard Viguerie for at least two years has been trashing Bush as a dangerous, big government Republican.

Meanwhile, much of the speculation about the 2016 presidential race lately centers on whether a moderate is a viable contender for the Republican nomination.

Jeb Bush, a moderate squish?

The governor who treated trial lawyers and teachers union leaders as enemies of the state? Who stripped job protections from civil servants? Who slashed taxes?

Whose passion for privatization included enacting the nation’s first statewide private school voucher program and extended to privatizing health care for the poor, prisons and child protection services?

This “very good moderate Democrat” defied court after court to try to force the reinsertion of feeding tubes for braindamaged Terri Schia¬vo and consistently backed more restrictions on abortions and fewer on gun ownership. He fought for reduced entitlement spending and, deriding nanny-state impulses, repealed the helmet law for motorcyclists in Florida and vetoed a GOP-backed bill requiring booster seats for kids in cars.

“For us who live in Florida, who experienced the eight-year Jeb Bush governorship, it’s almost laughable and maybe even hysterical for people who live outside of Florida to claim that he’s a moderate,” said former House Speaker Will Weatherford, R-Wesley Chapel, himself a conservative Republican who led the opposition to Florida accepting federal money to expand Medicaid to more than 800,000 people.

“This is a guy who probably has as conservative a record as governor as anybody I’ve ever seen,” Weatherford said, “and he has one of the most successful records as governor of anybody I’ve ever seen.”

The specious perception of Bush outside of Florida reflects both a fundamental misunderstanding of the man, probably due to assumptions based on the presidential records of his father and brother, and also how far rightward the Republican Party has shifted since Bush left the Governor’s Mansion in 2007.

“He is thoughtful and informed, but there is nothing liberal about Jeb Bush.

He is an arch-conservative,” said Dan Gelber, who as a Democratic leader in the Legislature respectfully and constantly fought most of Bush’s agenda. “He might have been moderate now and again, but even then it was probably by accident.”

Bush was not just a successful Republican governor politically; He was a conservative activist governor who relished pushing the envelope on policy.

Conservative activists elsewhere may revile the Bush name, but in America’s biggest battleground state this Bush is like a Milton Friedman or Barry Goldwater in terms of promoting conservatism. “(The) mere fact that he was able to propose and implement a sweeping change in Florida government during his two terms remains a notable achievement in state governance. It is also a notable achievement for the conservative

movement, because Bush showed that conservatives could do more than offer tax cuts; they could also change government in fundamental ways,” University of North Florida political scientist Matthew Corrigan writes in his new book, Conservative Hurricane: How Jeb Bush Remade Florida.

And yet Bush, 61, may be too moderate to win over today’s GOP primary voters.

Bush himself acknowledged as much last week when he suggested a successful Republican presidential candidate likely has to antagonize much of the party’s base, or “lose the primary to win the general.”

That’s because Jeb Bush, whether or not he is at heart more of a Reagan Republican than a George W. Bush Republican, holds positions on immigration reform and education that are toxic in a Republican primary.

When Bush governed Florida from 1999 to 2007, immigration reform was a minor issue here and nationally.

It’s a different world now. Mitt Romney helped kill Texas Gov. Rick Perry’s candidacy by bludgeoning him as soft on undocumented immigrants, and Marco Rubio is still trying to recover after embracing a pathway to citizenship in the Senate.

Likewise, back when Gov. Bush was at the vanguard of pressing for greater education accountability — and more private school vouchers — virtually every conservative political figure was on the same page.

Today, the Common Core education standards adopted by more than 40 states are widely vilified by Republican activists, as well as by former Common Core supporters considering presidential campaigns like Rubio and Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal.

Bush is expected to make a decision on running in the coming weeks, but he looks and sounds like a candidate. And strange as it may seem for those who know him best to think of him as a moderate, staking out that space may be the right path for him to win the nomination.

With so many other potentially

formidable conservative candidates — Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker, Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul, Texas Sen. Ted Cruz and Perry, to name just some of the prospects — campaigning as the competent pragmatist willing to “lose the primary,” so to speak, could pull it off.

“If there’s multiple people in the race, you don’t need 51 percent to win,” noted former Pinellas County state Sen. Dennis Jones, who was an endangered breed, a moderate Republican, after Bush took over the Florida GOP and often butted heads with him.

Jones, though, hopes Bush runs.

“Jeb certainly was a lot more conservative than I was, but I know him to be a real tough thinker, and I always respected him for the fact he never needed a poll to tell him what his position would be and you never needed to worry about him keeping that position,” Jones said. “When he brought a plan forward, he was down in the weeds and working with people to make sure it was going to be successful.”

But even Bush’s bona fides as a fiscal conservative are under attack because he has refused to pledge never to raise taxes under any circumstance.

All eight Republicans running for the 2012 Republican nomination said they would oppose any tax increase even if it was part of a deficit reduction package that included 10 parts of spending cuts for every $1 in tax increases. At a congressional hearing in 2012, Jeb Bush disagreed.

“If you could bring to me a majority of people to say that we’re going to have $10 in spending cuts for $1 of revenue enhancement — put me in, coach,” said Bush, who also explained why he never signed an Americans for Tax Reform pledge to never raise taxes.

“Republicans were all holding out on not raising taxes, and he was a guy from Florida, a former, washed-up politician from Florida not involved in that fight … and he jumps in says, ‘I’d raise taxes.’

You’re either part of the team and you want to be leader of the team, or you want to be something else. His dad decided to be something else,” Grover Norquist of Americans for Tax Reform told the Wall Street Journal last week, referring to George H.W. Bush’s broken “no new taxes” vow.

Yep, times have changed.

In late 2006, Norquist told the Palm Beach Post that Jeb Bush was America’s best governor: “He should change his name and run for president.”

Contact Adam C. Smith at asmith@ tampabay.com. Follow @adamsmithtimes.

Reprinted with permission. Copyright 2014 Tampa Bay Times.

THE GIVERS … OF JOY We all have seen our share of parades. the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena and others.

We have seen our share of parades in this area, too — Longboat Paul Thorpe Key’s cutest, shortest Fourth of July parade in America; the boat parade that precedes the annual Suncoast Offshore Grand Prix, to name two.

But the best parade for sheer joy is the Downtown Sarasota Holiday Parade on Main Street.

When photographer Cliff Roles surveyed Main Street last Saturday night, he

remarked: “If anyone says there are no children in this area, they need to come here and see.”

The sides of Main were teeming with children filled with joy and excitement Barbara Strauss as they watched and waved at 4,000 parade participants marching the length of Main Street.

What a great gift for the families of Sarasota.

And kudos and gratitude to Paul Thorpe and Barbara Strauss, longtime volunteer parade organizers and two of Sarasota’s great civic givers.

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

LETTERS

on. Apparently, those people do not matter to you, but to me they do as diversity is key.

You have no idea how hard we struggle to present shows for younger audiences, but as hard as it is, I won’t give up trying. You dismiss these people by saying simply they can go somewhere else. That is also ridiculous. This is a performing arts hall, and we cater to all sorts of people. I have operated many performing arts halls, and the Van Wezel’s model is much fairer in opening up rental dates than others by far.

We also have a diverse and extensive education program that includes programming for more than 20,000 children who receive free busing to our shows, teacher workshops, Family Night at the Theatre, Friday Fest, Military Access, Total Access, Senior Access, master classes and on and on.

This is what performing arts halls do: They present a blend of the arts and entertainment.

When I came here, all I heard was there should be no city subsidy. Now there is not one, and that is an issue. We are an arts institution serving our purpose just like all the others in town that make this such a vibrant city.

The Sarasota Orchestra and Van Wezel are looking at our needs studies, and I can guarantee you we will do it in friendship and cooperation and will look at it based on realities and facts.

I am passionate about all the arts and about education, and this is why all of our staffs work so hard and well together.

TO THE EDITOR are. Don’t facts matter?

The Van Wezel and Sarasota Orchestra are true partners in every way, and to try to set us against each other is childish. We support each other.

As to the Sarasota Ballet, I presented them at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall way before I came to Sarasota. When Sarasota Ballet did not book any dates last year for “Nutcracker,” I called to find out why. I moved four of our shows that were already contracted just so it could perform here. The ballet sent me flowers as a thank you.

I could give you several other similar instances such as that.

In addition to Sarasota Ballet and Sarasota Orchestra, we have many other local organizations that perform here. Many of these present their shows on weekdays.

The Van Wezel last year operated on 94.27% earned income and 4.12% unearned income and 1.6% sponsorship income. This is unheard of in the industry.

One startling omission was your lack of interest in diversity. You state this is a public hall, yet there is no concern about the hundreds of thousands of people who attend Broadway, comedy, international dance and orchestra, urban attractions, magic, children’s programming, pop music, folk music, country music, bluegrass and on and

Dear Editor: Thank you for the kind compliment regarding the success of the Van Wezel, but I need to take issue with the inaccuracies of your editorial.

The Van Wezel has for years had a policy of allowing 50% of weekend dates for rentals by local organizations and 50% for the Van Wezel’s shows, which by the way is also a local cultural organization whose mission is to bring the best and most diverse in national and international shows to the region. That mission was established way before I got here.

Second, our mission is to provide a home to local organizations that wish to present their shows here.

And third, it is to have strong educational and community outreach programs.

For the record, Sarasota Orchestra and Sarasota Ballet only perform their shows here on the weekends, while the Van Wezel presents shows Monday through Sunday. Yet your paper states about our policy “the idea is simple: put butts in seats for a price. And do it on days people are most likely to attend — the weekends.”

The majority of our shows are not on weekends, while all of the ballet and orchestra’s shows

Mary Bensel Executive Director Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

SARASOTA

CORNER

DEC. 7 AR-REST ROOM 10:53 a.m. — 1900 block of Fruitville Road. Trespassing. An officer received a call at a drugstore after a woman refused to come out of the bathroom for 40 minutes. The manager said he wanted the woman trespassed from the store. The woman agreed that it was wrong for her not to leave, but that she was cleaning herself up at the time.

BREAK UP/IN 3:04 p.m. — 700 block of North East Avenue. Criminal Mischief. A man said that his girlfriend of two years left his apartment two weeks earlier, but that she had left most of her belongings and kept a key to the residence. He received a message from her on Facebook with a picture of his clothing piled on the floor of the apartment; in one of the messages, the woman said she was done messing up his house. When the man returned to the apartment, he found clothing strewn all over the floor and a vulgar message written on the door with fingernail polish. The fingernail polish was also on the leather sofa, and his DVD player was broken. The woman’s property had been removed.

The man said he did not want to pursue any charges, but that he wanted the incident documented. Officers advised the man to change the locks.

DEC. 7 BAD EGGS 2:15 a.m. — 1900 block of Central Avenue. Criminal Mischief. A woman reported that, while she was driving south on Central Avenue, she noticed three teenage males standing at the intersection. As she approached, the males started to throw eggs at her vehicle; a couple hit the back window of her car. The woman stopped her car, and the males fled the area. Officers were unable to locate the males.

DEC. 8 KNOCK IT OFF 6 a.m. — 2300 block of Bay Street. Criminal Mischief. A woman reported that someone damaged her mailbox. Officers observed that someone appeared to have hit the object, causing a dent and scratches.

The mailbox was still operational, but may need to be replaced, the woman said. She added that the vacant house next to hers had the mailbox totally removed from its post by someone, and officers observed someone appeared to have hit that mailbox in a similar fashion.

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

QUAY / FROM PAGE 1A bring this important parcel to life for Sarasota residents and visitors alike,” GreenPointe Chairman and CEO Ed Burr said in a statement.

Because of the property’s location and size, it’s been considered a prime development opportunity. As the Sarasota Bayfront 20:20 group has worked to develop a master plan for the future of a 42-acre swath of city-owned bayfront land around the Van Wezel, it has also considered how adjoining private properties — including the Quay — could fit into its vision for a publicly accessible waterfront area.

Michael Klauber, the leader of Bayfront 20:20, said he hasn’t had contact with a representative from GreenPointe yet. Still, he said, the sale represents at least one crucial step: There’s now someone for Bayfront 20:20 leaders to talk to regarding the future of the Quay property.

“I think it’s a positive,” Klauber said.

“You have a purchaser, so we can start to move forward.”

He hopes that a dialogue will begin soon, and GreenPointe spokeswoman Susie Wiles indicated the group would speak to Bayfront 20:20 leaders. Before he can speak to any benefits that GreenPointe could potentially derive from working alongside Bayfront 20:20, Klauber needs to learn the company’s priorities when developing the land, he said.

In the past, however, Bayfront 20:20 leaders have said it could behoove private organizations to account for the master planning nearby when developing the Quay property.

“We want to be good listeners — we don’t yet understand what their goals are,” Klauber said. “In a perfect world, there would be a symbiotic relationship.”

Burr, a prominent business leader in the Jacksonville area, founded GreenPointe Communities in 2008. Other firms he has founded and run have designed and developed more than 30 master-planned communities and developments across the

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GreenPointe will follow a few others that have tried to buy and redevelop the Quay site. Irish developer Patrick Kelly bought the site in 2004 and demolished the buildings. Kelly’s plans called for a $1 billion condominium, retail, office and hotel development. Despite obtaining city approval for nearly 700 condominium units, about 190,000 square feet of retail space and 40,000 square feet of office space, the plans fell through following the recession.

That site plan, approved in 2007, is still valid for the property until 2017. In February, GreenPointe — then contracted to purchase the Quay property — requested a 20-year extension on the site plan. At the time, the group expressed its intent to develop a project “generally consistent with the entitlements the City Commission has already approved.”

The commission denied the extension request, and GreenPointe moved on. The group’s interest didn’t wane, however, as it closed on the purchase 10 months later.

Going broader

As they await news on the future of the Quay site, Bayfront 20:20 leaders have continued to plan additional meetings aimed at developing broad community input.

The next community events are scheduled for Jan. 10 and 11. The first, “Bay Brews,” will be held at JDub’s Brewing Co., and the “Sunday Supper Open House” will be held at the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex in Newtown.

At an early Bayfront 20:20 meeting, consultants stressed the importance of appealing to a more diverse audience as the process moved forward. Next month’s meetings are designed to help facilitate that broader conversation, Bayfront 20:20 spokeswoman Candice McElyea said, as the group continues to engage younger people and minority communities.

“We’re really busy expanding the conversation across the community,” Klauber said. “We want to get the pulse of this diverse community.”

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SARASOTA OBSERVER

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Hanukkah Happening — starts at 6 p.m. at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road. Join Temple Emanu-El to celebrate Hanukkah with a dinner featuring homemade brisket, chicken, side dishes and fresh hot potato latkes.

There will also be a menorah-making contest, crafts, chocolate gelt for children and a visit from Hanukkah hero Judah Maccabee. Tickets are $25 for adults, $15 for children ages 5 to 13 and free for younger children.

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TEMPLE SINAI Friday, Dec.19 Ryhthm and Jews Musical Shabbat Service — starts at 6 p.m. at Temple Sinai, 4631 S. Lockwood Ridge Road.

Join Rabbi Geoffrey Huntting, Chazzan

Cliff Abramson and members of the Temple Sinai congregation for the Rhythm and Jews Family Erev Shabbat Service. The Bruno Family Musicians will join Huntting and Abramson for a service with a variety of traditional, Israeli, Sephardic and Chasidic melodies. For more information, call 9241802.

Hanukkah Dinner Celebration — starts at 7 p.m. at Temple Sinai, 4631 S. Lockwood Ridge Road. Come enjoy all of the holiday favorites of brisket, latkes and sufganiyot. Activities for children will include crafts, a dreidel spin-off and an opportunity to make your own Lego dreidel. RSVP is required. For more information, contact Elana Margolis at 966-0252.

TEMPLE BETH SHOLOM Saturday, Dec. 20 Hanukkah Havdallah Celebration — runs from 6 to 8 p.m. at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 S. Tuttle Ave. All ages are welcome to take part in the Hanukkah Havdallah Celebration that will include a Havdallah and candle lighting. Live entertainment will be provided by the Temple Beth Sholom Schools band. Admission is free, but donations will be accepted. For more information, call 955-8121.

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Check out what’s happening This Week In Sarasota!

PHOTO GALLERIES

December 13 7:30p.m. – 10:30p.m.

Bradenton Blues Festival

Blues fans packed the Bradenton Riverwalk Saturday, Dec. 6, for the annual Bradenton Blues Festival, which highlights some of the best touring and area blues musicians as well as local food beer and other merchandise vendors. This year’s lineup …

READ MORE AT THISWEEKINSARASOTA.COM

7150 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota FL 34243

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13A Improve your ♠ ♣ ♥ ♦

Bridge Game!!

COMMUNITYCALENDAR Southside Village Holiday Stroll — runs from 5 to 9 p.m. in Southside Village, on Hillview Street and Osprey Avenue.

Walk through a winter flamingo fantasyland for the Southside Village Holiday Stroll. There will be activities for children and families as well as businesses offering special giveaways for the event. Bring a new unwrapped toy for the Toys for Tots donation drive. For more information, visit the Southside Village Holiday Stroll Facebook page.

Concert Season Kickoff — starts at 7 p.m. at St. Thomas More Catholic Church Chelsea Center, 2506 Gulf Gate Drive. St. Thomas More Catholic Church kicks off the 2014-15 concert season with Sarasota’s symphonic chorus, the Key Chorale. Individual tickets are $25 (reserved) or $15 (general admission).. For information, call 9231691.

SATURDAY, DEC. 13

Sandy Claws Beach Run — starts at 8 a.m. at the Siesta Key Beach pavilion. Siesta Key Beach hosts the 38th annual Sandy Claws Beach Run. Registration starts at 7 a.m., and a 1-mile fun run begins at 8 a.m. The 5K run starts at 8:20 a.m. Registration is $25 for the 5K run; $20 for the fun run. Race day registration is $30 for both races. For information, call 8615000.

Sarasota Christmas Boat Parade — starts at 6 p.m. at parks bordering Sarasota Bay. Pull up a seat to the Bayfront Park, Marina Jack restaurant, City Island or Centennial Park to watch the 28th annual Sarasota Christmas Boat Parade of Lights. As participating boats make their way from City Island, judges will keep score. The winners will be announced at 8:30 p.m. at Marina Jack’s fuel dock. For information, visit sarasotachristmasboatparade.com.

SATURDAY, DEC. 13 AND SUNDAY, DEC. 14

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Newman and Oltman Guitar Duo — starts at 4 p.m. at St. Boniface Episcopal Church, 5615 Midnight Pass Road. St. Boniface Episcopal Church presents a special concert program celebrating the musical tradition of the Christmas season from the Newman and Oltman Guitar Duo. Featuring music from the Renaissance, baroque and classical eras, the program includes a variety of Christmas music. Admission is $15. For information, call 349-5616.

Holiday Arts and Craft Show — runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 S. Tamiami Trail.

The annual Winterfest at the Mansion Arts and Crafts Show will feature artists and crafters from across the country.

Proceeds from the show and plant sale will benefit the Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center. Admission and parking is free. For information, call 379-0951.

Advent Lessons and Carols — starts at 5:15 p.m. at Church of the Redeemer, 222 S. Palm Ave. The community is invited to the Church of the Redeemer for the annual celebration of Advent Lessons and Carols.

The event explores the ancient Anglican tradition and the history of Christianity. Admission is free, and a reception will follow the presentation.

For information, call 955-4263.

SUNDAY, DEC. 14

Christmas Concert and Community Carol Sing — starts at 7 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 104 S. Pineapple Ave. Enjoy the music of the season at the 23rd annual Christmas Concert and Community Carol Sing, “Once Upon A Starry Christmas Night.” Free will offering.

For information, call 955-0935.

Piano Concert — starts a 2:30 p.m. at Unity Church, 3023 Proctor Road.

Enjoy original works by concert pianist and composer David Ohrenstein with guests Ed DeMattia and Sharon Lesley.

Admission is a suggested donation of $15 at the door. For information, visit unityofsarasota.com.

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Gingerbread Festival — runs from Dec. 12 to Dec. 14, at Westfield Sarasota Square Mall, 8201 S. Tamiami Trail. The Community Youth Development invites local businesses and community organizations to participate in the sixth annual Gingerbread Festival. The festival will feature more than 150 handmade gingerbread houses built by local students, youth organizations, nonprofits and businesses. Admission is $1 to view the gingerbread houses. Hours vary. For information, contact Suzanne Kane at 922-5126 or Suzanne@cydonline.org.

Winter Sale

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Red, White and Blue Christmas Fair — starts at 10 a.m. at First Congregational United Church of Christ, 1031 S. Euclid Ave. Explore and shop for locally made gifts made

of wood, fabric and canvas for the holiday season. There will be a children’s workshop for children to shop and wrap gifts for friends and family. Admission is free. For information, contact Lee Brockman at 922-1879.

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SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

keeping the beat

15A

by Amanda Morales | Staff Writer

Senior drum majors carry on Kiltie tradition The pressure is on for Riverview High seniors Taylor Totterdale and Adam Frazier. As drum majors for the award-winning Kiltie band, they carry the tradition and responsibility of leading the marching band during performances and competitions.

The iconic Scottish-themed Kiltie band is a staple at Sarasota events and concerts.

“We are a central part to Riverview and that tradition,” Totterdale said.

The Kiltie Marching Band has had the opportunity to travel to destinations to perform such as in 2011 to Hawaii for the 70th anniversary of the attacks on Pearl Harbor and in 2014 to New York for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

Accolades for the group include state titles and a winning streak that includes a recent superior award from the Florida Bandmasters Association District Marching Festival.

“We just received our 56th

WINTER SHOWCASE When: 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16 Where: Riverview Performing Arts Center, 1 Ram Way Admission: $5 The Riverview High School Kiltie Band’s Winter Showcase will be a 90-minute performance of seasonal favorites.

For more info, visit riverviewperformingarts.com/band.

straight year of superiors, and that is the main goal of the marching season,” Totterdale said. “That’s what we work toward. All of our games, all of our practices are for that goal.”

Between Totterdale and Frazier they spend more than 20 hours a week practicing on their own and with the band. They do this all while each takes rigorous courses for the International Baccalaureate academic program at Riverview High School.

Aside from performing in the brass quintet, marching band and the wind ensemble for the music department, Frazier is also a member of the Sarasota Orchestra Youth Symphony. He’s also dabbled in wrestling, pole vaulting and football in his time at Riverview High School, but he attributes his time with the Kiltie Marching Band for some of his favorite high school memories.

“My favorite part has been, besides that I love the people, I love the trips,” Frazier said. “The trips are always so great. Going to Hawaii freshman year was such a great experience. I think that’s what’s driven me so much.”

For Totterdale, her focus throughout high school has been entirely on music. She plays piano outside of school and clarinet for the band, after a suggestion from Mark Spreen, director of bands, her freshman year. Her core friends have come from her time as a member of the Kiltie band.

MUSIC NOTES For 10 years, students who have come through the Riverview music program have shared the experience, tradition — and sheet music books. Each book is labeled with the instrument and position of the musician in the ensemble. Assistant Drum Major and trumpet player Adam Frazier says the tradition for the first chair trumpet player is to write his or her name and year inside the front cover. He has also written motivational reminders for performances.

Photos by Amanda Morales

Seniors Adam Frazier and Taylor Totterdale are the drum majors for the Riverview High School Kiltie Band.

“I know that if I came in as a freshman and I didn’t do band and I came into 2,500 students I would not have as many friends as I do just being in the band,” Totterdale said. “I started the first day with 200 friends, in a way, because I knew all those people.”

As seniors, both Frazier and Totterdale are looking ahead and considering what role music will play in their lives after graduation. Totterdale says her plan is to keep music in her life in one

Givseomheergreen

form or another.

“I was actually just thinking about it last night that everything that I do always ends up back at music, since I was 5,” Totterdale said. “I just think that it’s something so central to my life that I want to keep it as something that I do for fun and that I do as a hobby.”

Although Frazier is still waiting to hear back from colleges, he is considering pursuing a career that will allow him to pass on

what he’s learned from his time as a member of the Riverview High School Kiltie Band.

“Whenever I think about my high school experience and the influences that I’ve had, I think that my band directors have been so influential in who I am today,” Frazier said. “I’m very interested in pursuing a music education degree, whether that be at UF or FSU.”

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16A

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

cheery spirit

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

by Amanda Morales | Staff Writer

Selby supporters raise their glasses to Wine, Dine and Pine Guests wined and dined at the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens for the 5th annual Wine, Dine & Pine Dec. 4. The Selby Gardens Associates hosted the fundraising event, during which guests were treated to live music, hors d’oeuvres and wine.

Decorative pine trees were surrounded with silent auction items as well as a Christmas tree filled with mystery boxes with prizes ranging from bottles of wine to cash prizes.

Robin Conner, Linda Bush and Mary Lou Loughlin

Above: Sandra LaFlame with Mary Jo and Mike Gaio

Left: Cindy Guest and Millie Headdy

Right: Pam Ramhofer and Charlie Ann Syprett

Photos by Amanda Morales

Roger Capote and Selby Gardens Board of Trustees Chair Cathy Layton

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Sports

BASKETBALL | FOOTBALL | GOLF | SOFTBALL | SWIMMING | TENNIS | VOLLEYBALL

5

SHUTOUT Cardinal Mooney High girls soccer team keeps Booker scoreless.

PAGE 18A

YOUROBSERVER.COM

HIGH

TENNIS

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

by Jen Blanco | Sports Editor

MOMENTS OF THE WEEK

1

Jacqueline Kulle scored 23 points and hauled in seven boards to lead the Cardinal Mooney girls basketball team to a 62-36 victory over Sarasota Military Academy Dec. 1.

2

Three players scored in double figures as the Booker High boys basketball team defeated St. Stephen’s 79-57 Dec. 3.

Photo courtesy John Kelley Photography

Nick Kyrgios emerged victorious in the men’s singles final match over Filip Krajinovic 7-6 (10), 6-4 at the 2013 Sarasota Open. The 18-year-old Australian, who has been ranked as high as 157 in the ATP ranking, has a number of credits to his honor, including juniors titles in the Roland Garros, Wimbledon and 2013 Australian Open.

ON THE MOVE After five years on Longboat Key, the Sarasota Open will now be held at the Lakewood Ranch Tennis Center. Organizers say the move allows for growth.

3

Guard Juhnae Richardson scored 23 points and had four steals to power Riverview, which handed Palm Harbor University a 50-47 loss — its first of the season — Dec. 3.

4

The Cardinal Mooney High boys basketball team remained unbeaten with a 64-29 victory over St. Stephen’s Dec. 2.

5

Dominic Caldwell scored 19 points and added five assists to lead the Riverview boys basketball team to a 61-51 victory over rival Sarasota Dec. 3.

For the past five years, Lakewood Ranch has been home to one of the premier college tournaments in Florida, the Dick Vitale Lakewood Ranch Intercollegiate Clay Court Classic presented by First Watch Cafe.

And now the community will host one of the premier professional tournaments as well.

After five years on Longboat Key, the Sarasota Open will now be held at the Lakewood Ranch Tennis Center.

“It’s a nice fit,” Director of Athletic Center Operations Paul Lederman says. “I think it will be great for the club and Lakewood Ranch.

They filled more than 31,000 seats last year, and we’re always trying to bring as many people to Lakewood Ranch as possible to develop the area and the athletic center.”

Sarasota Open CEO Tony Driscoll approached Lederman about the possibility of moving the Sarasota Open from The Tennis Gardens at Longboat Key Club to the Lakewood Ranch Tennis Center about four months ago. The two sides began negotiating before coming to an agreement about a month ago.

“Lakewood Ranch has a great stadium and a lot of growth,” Driscoll says. “It’s an excellent opportunity.”

The decision wasn’t an easy one but one Driscoll felt was too

big of an opportunity to pass up.

Sarasota Open organizers thought Lakewood Ranch’s proximity to I-75 would be more appealing to attendees coming from Tampa and Naples.

“They’ve been great,” Driscoll says of The Tennis Gardens at Longboat Key Club. “They are great people to work with and provide a first-class opportunity. I couldn’t say enough great things about (tennis director) John Woods. The members are great, too. I think a lot of people will follow us to Lakewood Ranch.”

The 2015 Sarasota Open will be held April 11 through April 19. The Sarasota Open is the premier men’s professional tournament in Southwest Florida and attracts some of the top players on the Association of Tennis Professionals World Tour.

In addition to men’s singles and doubles tournaments, the Sarasota Open also features a smaller singles tournament for women.

“We have a number of juniors at the club, and it’s great for them to be able to go out and see that level of play,” Lederman says. “Hopefully it will encourage them to get more involved in tennis and show what they can do if they have that passion and work ethic.”

Driscoll hopes to have tickets available for purchase online and through the box office beginning

BY THE NUMBERS

31,000

seats Sarasota Open filled last year

1,000

the planned seating capacity in court one in the tennis center.

$100,000 prize money awarded in the 2014 tournament

Jan. 1. Season ticket holders and Lakewood Ranch Tennis Center members will have the first opportunity to purchase tickets.

Driscoll also plans to begin announcing players for this year’s Sarasota Open in January.

With more tennis courts available at the Lakewood Ranch Ten-

nis Center, the Sarasota Open will be changing its general admission seating this year. A general admission ticket will allow guests access to the second stadium and outdoor tennis courts. Those wishing to see the action on the center court will need to purchase a box seat.

In addition, Sarasota Open officials plan to add stadium and bleacher seating around court one, the tennis center’s existing stadium court, which will seat roughly 1,000 spectators and serve as the tournament’s nighttime stadium.

The tennis center also plans to convert courts 11 and 12 in the back of the facility into one court, which will serve as the tournament’s daytime stadium.

“We have so many members who will go on Longboat Key to watch the Sarasota Open and volunteer at the event that we just knew the demand would be so great for the area,” Lederman says. “That’s one of the main reasons why we wanted to do it.”

For more information on the Sarasota Open, visit the tournament’s website at sarasotaopen. org.

“We have a number of juniors at the club, and it’s great for them to be able to go out and see that level of play.”

— Director of Athletic Center Operations Paul Lederman

18A

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

WEEKLYROUNDUP CARDINAL MOONEY HIGH SOCCER (8) VS. BOOKER HIGH (0) Skylar Jungers scored two goals and added an assist to power the Cardinal Mooney girls soccer team to an 8-0 district victory over Booker Dec. 4.

Lauren Ravazzoli also scored a pair of goals for the Lady Cougars. Bella McDevitt, Emma McDevitt and Elena Ciaccio all added a goal. Emily Brown added an assist.

Photos by Jen Blanco

Right: Booker goalkeeper Shynnel Elliott sends the ball back up the field.

Cardinal Mooney freshman forward Katrina Winkler maintains possession for the Lady Cougars in the first half.

Booker midfielder Maria Velasquez pushes the ball up the field in the first half.

Junior Lauren Ravazzoli scored a pair of goals for Cardinal Mooney during its 8-0 victory over Booker Dec. 4.

Cardinal Mooney sophomore midfielder Catlin Telford maneuvers the ball past Booker defender Melayna Guevara.

Cardinal Mooney freshman defender Eiko McCurdy controls the ball for the Lady Cougars.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS

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SARASOTA JUNGLE GARDENS

December 25 Christmas Edition

Join us for Live Entertainment, S’mores and a Visit from Santa!

Deadline: Wednesday, December 17, 4pm

January 1 Year in Review Year in Pictures

December 5 & 6, 12 & 13, 19-24, 26-28 6 pm-9 pm Adults $11, Children (Ages 3-12) $6 Kids 2 & under FREE

Deadline: Thursday, December 18, 4pm

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SARASOTA’S FAVORITE FAMILY ATTRACTION

YourObserver.com

The number of games the Riverview High girls basketball team has won so far this season after beating Booker 40-26 Dec. 5.

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The number of different players who scored in The Out-of-Door Academy girls soccer team’s 5-1 district victory over Bradenton Christian Dec. 4.

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

white night

A member of the Sahib Shriners entertains paradegoers on a classic miniature Model T.

by Amanda Morales | Staff Writer

Main Street was the place to be Saturday night for the Downton Sarasota Holiday Parade. Thousands of onlookers lined the street in anticipation of the parade that included an estimated 100 floats, marching bands and groups walking.

The forecast called for snow from some floats that embodied this year’s theme of a White Christmas. While the snow fell, the jingle bells of Santa’s sleigh could be heard as the holly jolly gift-giver and Mrs. Claus made their way down the street to wave at all the smiling good little girls and boys.

Photos by Amanda Morales

Shawn Connell and Mackenzie Kausela with Winston

Left: Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus wave to the crowd during the holiday parade.

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More than 100 attend Norma Martin’s 100th birthday party The Osprey Nokomis Chamber of Commerce threw an early birthday party for Norma Martin, a chamber member and licensed Realtor in Sarasota. The party was held Dec. 4, at the Bentley Boutique Hotel in Osprey.

Martin’s birth date is Jan. 2, however, hotel owner and chamber board President Rod Thomas organized the party so he could attend before leaving the country for the holidays.

More than 100 people attended Martin’s party: neighbors from Martin’s beloved Vamo Drive, physical therapists from the Springs at Lake Pointe Woods, chamber members, friends and family.

Martin stayed at the Springs for a few months after an injury, and she left an impression on the staff.

“She ruled the roost while she was Rod Thomas and Norma Martin there,” said Melanie Wildfong, a physical ing her birthday. Martin told the girl therapist at the Springs.

Martin thanked the crowd for attending she would be 100 years old, and the girl and told a story about a little girl she had asked her if she had started counting at met the same day who was also celebrat- age 1.

yourobserver.com GO

TO

to check out this year’s animated holiday scene.

To view the 2014 Holiday Gift guide go online and click the scene.

157623

Open 7 days

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157909

BIRTHDAY BASH

SARASOTA OBSERVER

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

deck the holly

by Amanda Morales | Staff Writer

Holly Days illuminate Historic Spanish Point The smell of nightblooming jasmine filled the air for the Holly Holiday Party Friday, at Historic Spanish Point. Guests enjoyed moonlight strolls on the boardwalk that continued under a canopy of mangroves filled with miniature white lights.

Performers of MCSquared provided live music for guests.

The party continues every Thursday and Friday night through Jan. 1 with the exception of Christmas Day. Each night will have different live music and entertainment as well as light refreshments, wine and beer available for purchase. The park will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. for guests to explore.

Admission is free for members; guests of members are $5 each; nonmember adults are $12; and children ages 5 to 12 are $5.

3B

Happy Holidays

to all of our clients, neighbors and supporters We are Grateful for Your Support and Another Successful Year! We wish you all Happy Holidays. May the new year bring you Peace, Love, Harmony, Joy, Abundance, Success, and the Time to Enjoy it all.

Photos by Amanda Morales

Brian Bowder and Don Brewer take in the lights at Historic Spanish Point.

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Tomas and Sudi Dinverno enjoy the Holly Holiday Party.

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The Dentist Sarasota Trusts “I could not be more pleased than I am with the comfort and care I have experienced with Dr. John Pelton and his staff -gentle, caring and genuine in every way. While I have always been able to handle other procedures, I am extremely sensitive when it comes to dentistry.

With Dr. Pelton, there simply is no problem. Dr. Pelton keeps me informed of exactly what is happening and why, and his approach gives me a sense of comfort that I have never experienced in a dentist’s chair before. Thank you to Dr. Pelton, and your caring and supportive staff, from the entire Conforti family.”

- ARTHUR CONFORTI, OWNER, BENEVA FLOWERS

When quality matters, Dr. John Pelton is the dentist that Sarasota turns to, for everything from calming, sedation dentistry to implants, veneers, crowns, whitening and more.

2120 Oriole Drive

$665,000 1548 Stickney Pt Rd, 503 $649,000

PGL GROUP

• Diplomate, National Dental Board of Anesthesiology • Diplomate, International Congress of Oral Implantologists • Member, American Dental Association • Past President, Sarasota County Dental Association • Delegate, Florida Dental Association

Peter G. Laughlin, Broker Associate 941.356.8428 peter.laughlin@sothebysrealty.com | peterglaughlin.com Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated.

157922

Dr. John R. Pelton D.D.S.

$675,000

PETER G. LAUGHLIN

Let our professional, friendly staff show you the difference that quality makes.

3400 S. TAMIAMI TRAIL, SUITE 301, SARASOTA, FL 941 - 951 - 7711 | www.DrJohnPelton.com

4822 Ocean Blvd, 9C $915,000 Palma Sola Park

158107

1 BLOCK SOUTH OF BEE RIDGE OFF 41 TURN @ TIRE KINGDOM

141216

NEVER KNOWINGLY UNDERSOLD! 1901 HANSEN ST., SARASOTA, FL

4B

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

real estate | transactions

By Adam Hughes | Research Editor

Home in Sarasota Beach sells for $4,481,400 The following residential real estate transactions took place between Nov. 24 and Nov. 28. A home in Sarasota Beach tops all transactions in this week’s real estate.

Jeffrey Roberti, trustee, of Sarasota, sold the home at 648 Beach Road to Crescent Property Holdings Partnership for $4,481,400.

Built in 1996, it has two bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 4,746 square feet of living area.

The Landings

SARASOTA

Ryan and Ashley Carson sold their home at 1867 Oleander St. to Donald Longueuil and Patricia Mudgett, of Sarasota, for $695,000. Built in 1952, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,288 square feet of living area.

It previously sold for $340,000 in 2002.

Cherokee Park

Michael and Maria Finazzo, of Sarasota, sold their home at 1524 North Drive to Jose and Jamie Fernandez De Castro, of Atlanta, for $2.05 million. Built in 1994, it has four bedrooms, four baths, one half-bath, a pool and 5,285 square feet of living area.

Ladue Lane

Cerita Purmort, of Sarasota, sold her home at 1435 Ladue Lane to Ryan and Ashley Carson, of Sarasota, for $830,000. Built in 1970, it has three bedrooms, three baths, one half-bath, a pool and 3,368 square feet of living area.

Bayview Heights

Toni Greif, of Sarasota, sold her home at 1785 Harmony Lane to AP Harmony LLC for $753,000.

Built in 1950, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,187 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $535,000 in 2004.

ing area. It previously sold for $139,000 in 1998.

Fred Carusona, trustee, of Sarasota, sold the home at 4930 Peregrine Point Way to Andrea Recanatesi and Monica Barth, of Sarasota, for $710,000. Built in 1984, it has three bedrooms, three baths, one half-bath, a pool and 3,325 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $595,000 in 2002.

Regency House

Gertrude Hight, of Sarasota, sold the Unit 1107 condominium at 435 S. Gulfstream Ave. to Stephen Tarragon, of Sarasota, for $290,000. Built in 1972, it has one bedroom, one bath and 1,201 square feet of living area.

It previously sold for $94,000 in 1998.

Poinsettia Park

Phillippi Gardens

Martha Bost, trustee, of Sarasota, sold the home at 5502 America Drive to Paxton and Lauren Craddock, of Sarasota, for $605,000. Built in 1962, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,139 square feet of living area.

Granada

Kimberly Kelly-Woodruff, of Sarasota, sold her home at 1681 Bonita Lane to Deborah Bjorklund, of Sarasota, for $557,000. Built in 1959, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,745 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $335,000 in 2003.

5821 Riegels Harbor Rd #A3997207 $1,400,000 Kelly Quigley & Linda Dickinson

Siesta Key 941-966-8000 941-356-9954

1476 Lemon Bay Drive #A4108229 $1,275,000 Diana Fischer

2650 Dick Wilson Dr #A3996409 $939,000 Melba Jimenez PA

Sarasota 941-951-6660 941-356-3970

701 Shakett Creek Drive #A4109000 $875,000 Dan Freed

Englewood 941-951-6660 941-685-7680

Nokomis/North Venice 941-966-8000 941-735-0770

South Gate

Amanda Morales

The home ay 648 Beach Road has two bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 4,746 square feet of living area. It sold for $4,481,400.

1350 Main Residential

Jonathan and Robin Baer, of Westborough, Mass., sold their Unit 1105 condominium at 1350 Main St. to Yvette Sellyn and Akram Azad, of Sarasota, for $395,000. Built in 2007, it has one bedroom, one bath, one half-bath and 972 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $375,300 in 2007.

Gulf Gate East

Gerald Ten Eyck and Kevin Keegan, trustees, of San Anseimo, Calif., sold the home at 6907 Easton Court to Martin Murphy and Robert Yourtee, of Sarasota, for $348,500. Built in 1984, it has three bedrooms, two baths,

a pool and 1,869 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $217,500 in February.

Gulf Gate Woods

Joan Taylor, of Sarasota, sold her home at 7242 Bounty Drive to Harriet Earle, of Los Angeles, for $320,000. Built in 1980, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,810 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $142,000 in 1999.

Barbara Harvey, of Mount Vernon, N.Y., sold her home at 2305 Cass St. to Katherine Baum and Maria De Souza, of Sarasota, for $248,000. Built in 1976, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,754 square feet of liv-

1450 Bern Creek Loop #A4108909 $1,275,000 Lee Byron and Sue Keal

Sarasota 941-349-3444 941-350-5542

5290 Avenida Navarra #A4108422 $1,022,000 Mark McCann

Siesta Key 941-349-3444 941-685-7624

990 Blvd Of The Arts #A4108769 $2,795,000 Kim & Michael Ogilvie

8006 Collingwood Court #A4108075 $869,000 Linda Driggs

University Park 941-951-6660 941-374-2920

901 Park Place Drive #N5901747 $599,900 Greg Oberlander

Englewood 941-485-5421 941-468-1460

8488 Woodbriar Drive #A4108223 $579,000 Janet Montgomery

SHARE YOUR

Gilberto and Kimberly Arauz, of Sarasota, sold their home at 2611 Wisteria Place to Cynthia Harris and Elizabeth Dumbaugh, of Sarasota, for $212,100. Built in 1958, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,052 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $89,000 in 1989.

SIESTA KEY

Sarasota Beach

Karen Anders, trustee, of Columbia, S.C., sold two properties at 320 Canal Road and 316 Canal Road to ICI III LLC for $1.1 million. Both properties were built in 1966, have two bedrooms, four baths and 1,920 square feet of living area.

Casa Del Soleil

Robert and Brittan Chepak, of Austin, Texas, sold their Unit A condominium at 140 Avenida Veneccia to Paul and Cheryl Van Tol, of Grosse Pointe, Mich., for $889,000. Built in 2007, it has

Sarasota 941-951-6660 941-376-1717

Sarasota 941-966-8000 941-544-7031

1711 Starling Drive #A4108818 $559,000 Tara Lamb & Judy Greene

Sarasota 941-349-3444 941-266-4873

PHOTOS

1070 Bel Air Star Parkway #A4109202 $549,900 Matthew Cannon

300 S Pineapple Avenue #A4103722 $1,819,900 Jonathan Abrams

Sarasota 941-951-6660 941-228-2030

1828 Hawkins Court #A4109143 $515,000 Daria Spina

Sarasota 941-349-3444 941-650-7207

Sarasota 941-349-3444 941-232-2868

Share using #SaundersSights on your Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or upload to TheSaundersBlog.com

YOUR PHOTO MAY APPEAR ON MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM

13179 Fernando Street #A4108782 $482,000 Crystal Cosby

Venice 941-966-8000 571-230-5013

32 Bayhead Ln #A3991183 $459,000 Peggy Mock

Osprey 941-388-4447 941-356-3584

937 Scherer Way #A4108681 $429,000 Linda Bastian

Osprey 941-966-8000 941-321-6203

3935 Spyglass Hill Road #A4109073 $429,000 Michael Cochrane

Sarasota 941-966-8000 941-539-4520

8767 Midnight Pass Rd # 202F #A3993329 $425,000 Marlene Marshall

Siesta Key 941-349-3444 941-539-8850

8961 Olde Hickory Avenue #A4108967 $389,000 Marilyn Vespoli

Sarasota 941-966-8000 201-926-7272

4509 S Lockwood Ridge Road #A4108816 $349,000 Janice Perry

Sarasota 941-951-6660 941-228-0848

2955 N Beach Road #N5901692 $329,900 Scott Johnston

Englewood 941-493-2500 941-232-5482

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

5B

TOP BUILDING PERMITS These are the largest city of Sarasota and Sarasota County building permits issued for the week of Nov. 24 through Nov. 28, in order of dollar amounts.

CITY OF SARASOTA Address

Permit

Applicant

Amount

354 N. Shore Drive 1884 Grove St. 1508 Flower Drive 4515 45th Court 2950 Floyd St. 1216 43rd St. 1836 Jasmine Drive 2854 Browning St. 2343 Prospect St. 1233 N. Gulfstream Ave.

Addition Spa/Patio Remodel Lanai Windows Re-roof Mechanical Mechanical Re-roof Mechanical

Craig Engle Kimberly Chance Louis Cohn Cynthia Curren Linda Drahuskuk Darrell Miller George Schreiber III Brian Henegar Rosemary Spence, trustee James Devellano

$94,200 $20,000 $18,000 $12,000 $9,700 $9,325 $7,719 $7,134 $6,400 $5,550

Address

Permit

Applicant

Amount

3759 Beneva Oaks Blvd.

4122 Hearthstone Drive 6532 Peacock Road 5548 Shadow Lawn Drive 8831 Huntington Pointe Drive 4736 Sweetmeadow Circle 6169 Anise Drive 3826 Mira Lago Drive 8790 Merion Ave. 7525 Mariana Drive

Pool Renovation Remodel Pool/Deck Remodel Re-roof Mechanical Pool/Deck Re-roof Re-roof Windows

Courtney Edbrooke Andrew Bell Jon Stafford Adam Walton Christabel Powers John Myers Justin Laurie Susan Supple Daniel Melehan Greg Boic

$41,000 $32,261 $26,565 $25,000 $24,320 $24,203 $24,043 $23,100 $22,500 $20,000

SARASOTA COUNTY

Michael at the family property on north Longboat Key.

Source: Sarasota County; city of Sarasota

three bedrooms, three baths, one halfbath and 2,560 square feet of living area.

It previously sold for $800,000 in 2007.

Gulf and Bay Club

Joyce Howard, of DuPage, Ill., sold her Unit 605 condominium at 5760 Midnight Pass Road to William and Sharon Malone, of Goshen, Ind., for $620,000. Built in 1981, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,361 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $647,500 in 2004.

1882 Vamo Drive #A4109093 $250,000 Stacy Hanan

240 Antis Drive #D5900808 $229,000 Marcia Cullinan

3001 Matecumbe Key Road #C7205257 $172,500 Ken Parr

Sarasota 941-951-6660 941-266-0529

Rotonda West 941-473-7750 941-662-5878

Punta Gorda 941-505-5555 941-916-1252

4495 Streamside Court #A4108771 $235,000 Kristina Talkie & Judy Arreola

14547 Armada Road #C7204202 $199,900 Karen Brown

5214 Lake Village Drive #A4106653 $145,000 Peggy Wellman & Robert Moffatt

Siesta Beach

On Key Time LLC sold the home at 5147 Oxford Drive to Patrick O’Neill, of Sarasota, for $369,800. Built in 1987, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,524 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $500,000 in 2011.

Michael in 1964.

YOUROBSERVER.COM //

Visit our website to read more of this week’s real estate transactions.

Sarasota 941-349-3444 941-266-8658

Port Charlotte 941-639-0000 941-380-2820

Sarasota 941-966-8000 941-374-0811

6018 Madrano Drive #A4105591 $230,000 Kris Hohlt-Niehaus

1304 Doris Drive #A4109192 $189,000 Robert Agnello

765 N Jefferson Avenue #A4107621 $139,900 Kelly Mooney

Sarasota 941-349-3444 941-376-4950

Sarasota 941-966-8000 941-928-1328

Sarasota 941-349-3444 941-587-8430

It all started with a lady named Michael.

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3601 Casey Key Rd #A3999236 $6,245,000 Dorothy Mckendry

Casey Key 941-966-8000 941-586-5007

Mid Longboat 383.5502 • South Longboat 383.7591 • St. Armands 388.4447 • Main Street 951.6660 Palmer Ranch 966.8000 • Siesta Key 349.3444 • Venice 485.5421 • Englewood 473.7750

michaelsaunders.com

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6B

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

POLITICAL PUNDIT MONDAY Seniors get 15% Off TUESDAY Double Punch Tuesday WEDNESDAY Load it Up $4 Cup Day

by Amanda Morales | Staff Writer

Author O’Rourke gives his political forecast at Tiger Bay

• Over 80 Toppings • • sweetFrog Loyalty Program • • Gift Cards • • Birthday Parties •

The Tiger Bay Club hosted author and political satirist P.J. O’Rourke for the club’s monthly luncheon Dec. 4, at Michael’s On East. O’Rourke is the author of “Peace Kills,” “The Wealth of Nations” and, his most recent title, “The Baby Boom.”

O’Rourke gave his picks for the 2016 presidential elections with his trademark quip, breaking down candidates such as former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Vice President Joe Biden, Sen. Rand Paul, from Kentucky, and New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie. Copies of his books were available to purchase before the luncheon, and there was an opportunity to meet O’Rourke to have them signed.

“The yogurt & store are awesome!”

Joe from Siesta Key

Bring this ad for

BUY ONE GET ONE

FREE*

157943

*Of equal or lesser value. Offer expires 12/31/14. Offer valid only at sweetFrog Sarasota, not to be combined with any other offer, discount or promotion.

Not merchandise.

Flavor of the Month: Peppermint

Steven Seidensticker, City Commissioner Suzanne Atwell and Andy Dorr

AL SOM WAYS HAPPETH I NG ENIN G! Susan Robinson and Bob Donnellan

Full Menu • Full Bar Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner from $5 & up Open 8am - 2am • Entertainment Daily On the Water • Drink Specials Daily $199

Daily Specials

Photos by Amanda Morales

(All Day, All Night)

P.J. O’Rourke addresses guests and gives his take on current political issues.

MON. ............Karaoke $100 prizes and cash | Crab Legs Dinner $1099 TUE...............Tiki Tuesday, Entertainment & Dancing | Hamburger $199 WED. ............Latin Night, Entertainment & Dancing | 2 tacos $199 THUR. ..........Fundraiser Parties, Entertainment & Dancing | Full Lobster Dinner $999 FRI. ...............Live Music 7pm-1am | Fish & Chips $999 SAT. ..............Live Music & Dancing, All Day & Night | Prime Rib Dinner (PM only) $999 SUN. .............Live Music & Dancing, All Day & Night | Broasted Chicken Dinner $899 EVERYDAY ....2pm - 5pm | Burger & Domestic Draft or Soda $550

Ed Cohen and Christine Johnson

A 27 Hole Executive Golf Course... just 2 miles from Siesta Key’s South Bridge!

This beautiful 27 hole course is a favorite for local golfers. We are family (and kid) friendly, inexpensive, and very convenient. Gulf Gate Golf Club is the perfect place for your next golf outing. Enjoy the beautiful lake views and nature while playing or simply rest at the Bar.

Men’s and Women’s rental clubs available.

Open 7 am–6 pm ATM Available

5515 S Tamiami Trail | Sarasota, FL 34231 | 941.312.9111

941-809-0233

www.daiquirideck.com

16 Daiquiri Flavors

Endless Combinations & a full Bar Lunch, Dinner or Late-night dinning 5250 Ocean Blvd. in the heart of Siesta Village 941-349-8697 325 John Ringling Ocean Blvd. Top of the Circle 941-388-DECK (3325)

S I E S TA K E Y

clayton’s s i e s t a

g r i l l e

FREE $20 OPEN Christmas Day GIFT CARD 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm

NEW ENGLAND SEAFOOD AT ITS BEST! Mon.-Thurs. 11:30-9 pm, Fri. & Sat. 11:30-9:30 pm Open Sundays 11:30-9pm • 5157 Ocean Blvd.

941-349-2323 • www.sarasotalobsterpot.com THE KEY’S BEST HAPPY HOUR AND DINNER SPECIALS! Serving Daily 11am-9pm • Happy Hour 3-6pm Indoor & Outdoor Dining. Enjoy our Covered Patio 8865 Midnight Pass Rd., Siesta Key 941-349-2280

with purchase of $100 Gift Card

Join us for our 10th Annual

GIFT CARD

PARTY

FREE $10

SIESTA KEY’S MOST AFFORDABLE KID FRIENDLY SEAFOOD RESTAURANT! Open Daily for Lunch & Dinner • 1200 Old Stickney Point Rd. 941-349-3885 • www.captaincurts.com

with purchase of $50 Gift Card

VENICE’S WATERFRONT LANDMARK SINCE 1976.

Boat or Car • Lunch & Dinner • Open Daily 1st Floor Tavern • 1968 Tarpon Center Dr. 941-484-9551 • www.crowsnest-venice.com

New Year’s Eve

WITHOUT GOING BROKE! NO EXPENSIVE PRICE FIXE AND NO COVER!

Dinner Party at Claytons 5pm till the cows come home!

Decorations/Entertainment/Dancing and Free Champagne toast at midnight.

157656

FOOD AND FUN FOR ALL AGES Lunch & Dinner Served from 11:30 am Live Entertainment 7 Days a Week • 1600 Harbor Drive S. 941-488-1456 • www.sharkysonthepier.com

921-5515

ky’s Shar on the pier

157426

Catering Available!

BRINGING ITALY TO SIESTA KEY Sun.-Thu:4-10pm Fri-Sat: 4-11pm Happy Hour: 4-6pm daily.

Reservations Recommended • 5104 Ocean Blvd.

941-349-1423 • www.cafegabbiano.com

VENICE

158103

Sar

THE

2550 Bispham Road, Sarasota

OF

DINING

vorite Place ta’s Fa to aso

t!

Mee

BEST

Sorry, no Credit Cards.

Breakfast & Lunch 8am - 2pm • Dinner 4pm - 10pm - Happy Hour 4pm - 6:30pm Daily

1256 Old Stickney Point Rd. • off Midnight Pass Rd. • Siesta Key

941.349.2800 • www.claytonssiestagrille.com www.sarasotacateringbyclayton.com

76597

158099

www.BobsBoathouse.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

EXPLORING NATURE’S BEAUTY

Visit YourObserver.com to submit your local weather photos. Each weekly winner will be entered into a monthly drawing for a $25 gift card. One grand prize winner will receive a $5,000 flooring makeover.*

with

 James West submitted this photo of his daughter, Katherine, jumping for joy at sunset on Siesta Key.

FORECAST

SUNRISE / SUNSET

THURSDAY, DEC. 11 High: 64 Low: 50 Chance of rain: 0%

FRIDAY, DEC. 12 High: 64 Low: 47 Chance of rain: 0%

YOUROBSERVER.COM/ WEATHER

Visit our website to upload your weather or naturerelated photos and for contest information, including rules and prize information.

7B

Sunrise

Thursday, Dec. 11

7:10a

5:37p

Friday, Dec. 12

7:11a

5:37p

Saturday, Dec. 13

7:11a

5:38p

Sunday, Dec. 14

7:12a

5:38p

Monday, Dec. 15

7:13a

5:38p

Tuesday, Dec. 16

7:13a

5:39p

Wednesday, Dec. 17

7:14a

5:39p

MOON PHASES

RAINFALL

SATURDAY, DEC. 13 High: 66 Low: 48 Chance of rain: 0%

SUNDAY, DEC. 14

Sunset

Wednesday, Dec. 3

Trace

Thursday, Dec. 4

0.00

Friday, Dec. 5

0.00

Saturday, Dec. 6

Trace

Sunday, Dec. 7

0.00

Monday, Dec. 8

Trace

Tuesday, Dec. 9

Trace

Dec. 14

Dec. 21

YEAR TO DATE:

High: 67 Low: 48 Chance of rain: 0%

2014

50.60 in.

2013

52.46 in.

Dec. 28

MONTH TO DATE:

Courtesy: wunderground.com

2014

0.02 in.

2013

0.00 in.

Jan. 4

*Must own a home in Sarasota or Manatee counties. Grand prize winner will be announced in October 2015.

4551 N. Washington Blvd.,Sarasota • 941.355.8437 2510 1st Street W., Bradenton • 941.748.4679 1734 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice • 941.493.7441

Awarded 2014 National Dealer of the Year!

O B S E RV E R C RO S S WO R D

A PC PUZZLE by Kenneth Holt ACROSS

Edited by Timothy E. Parker

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78 Short pencil

79 83 87 89 90 91 92 94 96

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107 110 111 112 113 114 116 120 121 123 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133

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Airs for December Biker’s path Black, in Barcelona “Comin’ Thro’ the ___” Make a statute Apple source Washington’s successor

DOWN

1 Snowman prop 2 Apple spray 3 Barbecue entree

4 Place of hard labor 5 Tokyo, formerly 6 Slanted printing 7 Cape Canaveral grp.

8 Genghis ___ 9 Costa del ___ 10 Program of 7-Down 11 Hillside near a loch 12 Loser to DDE, twice 13 Web-making part of a spider 14 Fragrance 15 “Pineapple Island” 16 “Dilbert” creator Adams 17 “Malcolm in the Middle” brother 20 English Lit assignment 24 Basic monetary unit of Ghana 30 Compass line 32 Courage, so to speak 34 Europe’s “boot” 35 Temporary home for Napoleon 36 Vacuum-tube gas 37 Legal aides 38 Address an audience 39 Crowbar or jimmy 40 Buzz the astronaut 41 Form of “lie” 42 Acting part 46 “As ___ on TV!” 47 Architectural annexes 48 Hebrides terrier 50 Crystal-ball gazer 52 One at work 53 “Go no further!”

57 Brown brew 59 A Smothers brother 60 Madden 61 Credit card name 63 Basilica area

68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 80 81 82 84 85 86 87 88 93 95 97 98 100 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 113 114 115 117 118 119 122 124 125

Money dispenser Kind of bed Auto Pepless Convent resident Heron cousin Adam’s firstborn Puerto ___ First garden Raccoon relative City of a famous shroud Bite like a bee Extensive learning Burrowing rodents Mare meal Sock-mender’s oath?

En ___ (together) Archaic exclamation Cracked Chimps and orangutans Land around a mansion Excessive sweetness Need for water Zodiac animal Hapless Stew vegetable Cast member Behaving like a ruffian Barter After-bath powder “The Lion King” character “The Grapes of Wrath” extra Gulf of ___ (arm of the Baltic) Bacterium Winged god of love Common iced drink “Wherefore __ thou ...”

“Messenger” compound

12-11-14

8B

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

Holiday Worship Guide Christm

Family Mass with Blessing of the Crèche ˜ 4 pm

Holy Co

tion

ticket dona

Holy Eucharist (Rite II) with incense ˜ 6 pm

Brass, Organ & Carols begin at 5:30 pm

Midnight Mass ˜ 10:30 pm Brass, Organ & Carols begin at 9:30 pm

downtown Sarasota

955.4263

Christmas Eve complimentary parking (3 pm to 1 am BMO Harris Bank Garage) and nursery (4 and 6 pm Mass only) www.redeemersarasota.org

156390

222 S. Palm Ave.

A joyous celebration of the birth of Christ!

St. Mary Magdalene Episcopal Church

Christmas Eve at

Pine Shores Presbyterian Church

11315 Palmbrush Trail Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 (941) 751-5048

6116 Crestwood Avenue (West of US 41 - North of Stickney Pt.)

Join us for worship and be part of our family!

~ 5:00 pm Early Service ~ for Children, Youth & Adults

DECEMBER 24 Christmas Eve Services 941.907.3939

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES

Lorraine Road just north of University.

WEEKLY WORSHIP SERVICES

www.onthecorner.org 14306 Covenant Way Lakewood Ranch, FL

3:30 PM Christmas Music 4 PM Contemporary/Family Service 9:30 PM Christmas Music 10 PM Traditional Service with Choir

10 AM Traditional Service

157457

DECEMBER 25 Christmas Day BRINGING PEOPLE TO MATURITY IN CHRIST

~ 7:30 pm Traditional Service ~ Presenting “Sing with the Angels!”

Cantata with Chancel Choir & Ensemble

4:00 and 5:30pm

Sunday 9am Traditional Service Sunday 10:45am Contemporary Service Nursery available during 9am service.

Nursery and full children’s program during 10:45am service.

~ 11:00 pm ~ The Eve of Christmas Communion & Candlelight at all Services Nursery provided at 5:00 & 7:30

157092

(with Nursery)

(with Nursery)

156620

Special visit from St. Nicholas Carols begin at 3:30 pm

. 21 7:30 pm Dec : $10

as Day

mmunio n ˜ 7:30 Choral am Mass ˜ 1 0 a m Spanish Mass ˜ 1 pm

www.pineshorespres.org • (941) 922-1597

157567

Messiah g Sing Alon

Christmas Eve

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

Vamo United Methodist Church

Christmas Eve Candle Lighting Service

8521 Vamo Road, at US 41 in south Sarasota

6:00 PM

New Years Eve Burning Bowl Service

3023 Proctor Rd Sarasota, FL 34231

Call 966-3306

Regular Sunday Service Hours

unityofsarasota.com

9:00 AM and 10:30 AM

156849

7:00 PM

941-955-3301

Dec. 24

4:30 pm Lessons and Carols with Holy Communion 8:30 pm Lessons and Carols with Holy Communion

Dec. 25

10:00 am Christmas Service with Holy Communion

8700 SR72, Sarasota, FL 156870

Celebrate Christmas with us Dec. 24 at our Family Christmas Eve service at 5:30 p.m. or our 11:00 p.m. Communion service.

941-925-2525 www.stmargaretsarasota.org

9B

156507

SARASOTA OBSERVER

LIVING LORD LUTHERAN CHURCH

11107 Palmbrush Trail, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 • (941) 753-9365 Pastor Jeffrey R Gross • www.livinglordfl.org

Your family is invited to join our family to lift our voices as we celebrate our Savior’s birth!

BLUE CHRISTMAS SERVICE

Christmas Eve in Candlelight

7:00 PM December 18th

Candlelight Communion 6:00 & 9:00 p.m.

CHRISTMAS EVE – 4:30 & 7:00 p

Music begins ½ hour before each service

C HRISTMAS DAY — 1 0:00 a

157497

www.beautifulsaviorlcms.com

EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE NATIVITY

St. Andrew United Church of Christ

5900 N. Lockwood Ridge Road • just south of University Pky.

The Rev. Charles Mann, Rector • 355-3262

Sunday Worship Services in Advent - 10:30 a.m.

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service - 7:00 p.m.

Traditional Lessons and Carols Special Music @ 6:45 p.m.

A United Methodist Congregation

Let Your Light Shine This Christmas Join us as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE 5:30 pm

SUNDAY SCHEDULE Communion Service 8:00 pm WORSHIP SERVICE 10:00 CHAPELKIDZ 10:00 Children attending the ADULT BIBLE STUDY 9:00 Family Service who would

EVERY SATURDAY EVE

EVERY SUNDAY MORN

941.349.1166 www.siestakeychapel.org

CHRISTMAS DAY 10:00 am Eucharist with Carols

CHRISTMAS MORN

NEW YEAR’S DAY 10:00 am Eucharist

10 a.m.: Christmas carol worship with Holy Communion

Concordia Lutheran Church 2185 Wood Street

(along School Avenue, north of Sarasota High School)

ConcordiaSarasota.org

156932

preSbyterian U S a 4615 GLEASON AVE | 1 MILE NORTH OF SIESTA KEY VILLAGE OFF OCEAN BLVD

4:30 pm Family Service with Pageant and Eucharist 7:00 pm Christmas music for Choir, Strings & Organ 7:30 pm The Christ Mass, “Schubert in G” 10:30 pm Christmas music for Choir, Strings, Organ 11:00 pm The Christ Mass, “Schubert in G”

CHRISTMAS EVE 7 p.m.: family candlelit service with children’s pageant 11 p.m.: candlelit worship with Holy Communion

5615 Midnight Pass Road, Siesta Key (941) 349-5616 www.bonifacechurch.org

Looking for PEACE this Christmas?

Please join us Every Sunday at 8:30 or 11:00 December 28 at 10:00

Christmas Eve at 5:00, 7:00, or 9:00 Carols, candlelight, and communion Childcare at 5:00 and 7:00 Peace Presbyterian Church 12705 E. State Road 64 Lakewood Ranch, FL 34212 (near Greyhawk Landing)

941.753.7778

www.peacepcusa.org

Peace Presbyterian Church

157568

SieSta Key Chapel

CHRISTMAS EVE

9 a.m.: contemporary worship with praise band 10:45 a.m.: traditional worship with choir

156949

The Rev. Dr. Kathleen Wiggins

Christmas Day 10:00am

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21 6:00 pm Christmas Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols by Candlelight

5:30 p.m.: chapel worship with Holy Communion

like to be angels and shepherds, please arrive by 5:15 for the 5:30 service.

Christmas Eve Candlelight Services 7:00 and 10:30 pm Music and Carols 6:45 and 10:15pm

St. Boniface Episcopal Church

Come! God’s Son Is Born for All!

Family Service

Coffee fellowship on deck Nursery open for 10:00 service

156953

941-922-7595

6908 Beneva Road, Sarasota 34238 www.uccstandrew.org

941-924-4664

www.faithsarasota.com

156657

7461 Prospect Road

157786

First Church

941-355-2798

7750 Beneva Rd. Sarasota, FL 34238 157031

Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church

157637

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES

ADVENT SERVICES Wed. Dec. 3, 10, 17 @ 4:30 & 6:30 p.m.

Pre-service Music 6:30 p.m.

104 S. Pineapple Ave. (941) 955-0935 www.firstsrq.com

Faith Lutheran Church

CELEBRATE THE SAVIOR’S BIRTH

Traditional Service of Lessons and Carols 7:00 p.m.

157408

Children and Family Service 5:00 p.m.

157459

CANDLELIGHT – COMMUNION – CAROLS 4:00 PM Traditional Service • 7:00 PM Family Service 11:00 PM Traditional Service with Choir

156408

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES

Thursday, December 11, 2014

Dec. 24th (941)387-4810.

Dec. 24th Dec. 24th Dec. 25thService Directory deadlines Dec. 16th, 12pm Service Directory deadlines Dec. 16th, Service Directory deadlines Dec. 16th, 12pm th12pm at 17th, noon4pm Garage/Moving/Estate Sales Service Directory deadlines Dec. 17Dec. Classified Ads deadline Classified Ads deadline Dec. 17th, Classified Ads deadline Dec. 17th, th4pm Classified Ads deadline Dec. 18 at4pm noon ESTATE AUCTION ART & ANTIQUES Dec. 31st Dec. 31stDec. 31st st Service Directory deadlines Dec. 16th, 12pm SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14TH @ 1PM Jan. 1Directory Service deadlines Dec. 16th, 12pm Service Directory deadlines Dec. 16th, 12pm Inspection Sunday Day of Sale 11am-1pm Classified Ads deadline th Classified Ads deadline Dec. 17th, 4pm Classified Ads deadline Dec. 17th, 4pm Service Directory deadlines Dec. 18Dec. at 17th, noon4pm The sale will be held at our Auction Gallery Classified Ads 7th deadline Dec. 19th at noon located on the Southwest corner of Jan. 7th7th Jan. Jan. Service Directory deadlines Dec. 23rd, 12pm 301N & University Parkway.

Service Directory deadlines Dec. 23rd, 12pm Service Directory deadlines Dec. 23rd, 12pm TheClassified Observer Ads Classified Dept.

Quality Estate Auction Featuring: deadline Jan. 5th, 12pm (no change) Classified Ads deadline Jan. 5th, 12pm (no change) Classified Jan.for 5th, (no change) will CLOSEAds Dec.deadline 23rd at 5pm the12pm holidays.

PIMSLEUR SPANISH language set. New in box. $50. Homedics moving Back Massager. $20.

941-377-4522.

ROCKING CHAIR (child’s): hardwood, woven seat, new cond. $55.00. (Retails at $100.00). Call 941-925-3505.

TEAK CHAIR, rolling, upholstered, excellent condition. $175. 941-232-0276.

TORO MULCHER-MOWER. Self-propelled, like new, $200 o/b/o. 941-924-8583.

TV: SHARP, 19” with remote, excellent condition, $40. 941-488-1853.

VEST, JACKETS, & Chaps for Bikers or Cowboys.

New & Used. $50. 941-953-4186, 941-961-2997.

XMAS TREE: Live healthy Norfolk, 6' 4" tall, 4' 2" wide, in decorative pot, $59 o/b/o.

941-351-3919.

CUSTOM UPHOLSTERED Couch. You must arrange transport (pick up), $125. (440) 263−7032.

Flooring

Check out photos on: www.estatesales.net

WE’RE NOT YOUR ORDINARY FLOORING INSTALLERS! We are more. We have multiple crews with over 20 years experience to master your tile and wood flooring installation. We specialize in tile that looks like wood, offset, patterns, and more. Call us.

You won’t regret it. Fully Licensed and Insured.

Joe Davis, 941.929.3000.

Merchandise Wanted COINS, STAMPS, GOLD & SILVER WANTED. Paying Spot on Gold Bullion. IMMEDIATE PAYMENT. Suncoast Stamp Company, 8520 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 941-921-9761

Find Treasure!

KERASTASE LIFT Vertige: (2) available, $25/ea.

New 75ml/2.5oz. Retails for $37. (941)321−0399.

NFL GAME Ball, "The Duke". New In box, 75.00.

(941) 321−0399.

Antiques/Collectibles STEFF’S STUFF CONSIGNMENT Longboat Key - 5380 Gulf of Mexico Dr. 941-383-1901 steffstufflbk.com

Autos For Sale BMW CONVERTIBLE 2006, M3 package, 53,500 miles, blue/tan/black. Beautiful and fast. $19,950.

920-379-7521.

Visit us online at www.yourobserver.com

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

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

Things To Do GULFSIDE MINI-VACATION IN NAPLES JUST $185 PER PERSON ***

Your Mini-Vacation Includes: • Check-in Sunday through Wednesday only • Gulfside accommodations for 2 nights* • Continental Breakfast • Dinner 1 evening ($27 voucher) at your choice of 6 local restaurants plus additional 10% off 2nd evening dinner at The Turtle Club.** • Lunch 1 day ($12 voucher) at your choice of 6 local restaurants plus additional lunch per person at The Turtle Club.** • Admission to 1 of 4 local attractions (Some attractions may require additional fees) * Available through December 17, 2014. Holidays and weekends excluded.

Based on double occupancy. Tax, tip & resort fees extra.

Type of accommodation subject to availability.

Bayside condominiums available at different rates. ** An 18% gratuity may be added by lunch and dinner vendors. ***Limited to one per customer.

FOR RESERVATIONS,

CALL (800) 243-9076 or (239) 597-3144 9225 Gulfshore Drive North, Naples, Florida 34108

www.vanderbiltbeachresort.com

Please mention code “PEL” when making your reservation.

Business Opportunities JAN PRO CLEANING FRANCHISE: $950 Down Required, Financing Available for growth, Includes customers. Earn up to $10,000 Month+.

Call 941-907-8141.

EXPERIENCED SUPERINTENDENTS. GULF MECHANICAL IS SEEKING EXPERIENCED SUPERINTENDENTS FOR COMMERCIAL PLUMBING AND HVAC PROJECTS. EXCELLENT BENEFIT PACKAGES. PLEASE APPLY at: WWW.GULFMC.NET OR CALL (352)460−4176.

Help Wanted RESORT ON Longboat Key Hiring For: Experienced P/T Front Desk Agent and Engineer/Maintenance. If Interested Please send a resume to: beachresortlbk@yahoo.com

Condos For Sale

CASH FOR Old Military Items. Swords, uniforms, insignia & old guns. Call 941-416-3280.

DINING SET: pub style, glass top and 4 chairs, excellent, $200. (203) 524−9002.

PORTABLE HEATER: Edenpure GEN3 Model 1000 Quartz, $195. (941) 924−5093.

Personals *ADOPTING YOUR BABY IS OUR DREAM* Successful Musician & Exec. yearn for 1st baby.

Expenses paid. FLBar 42311. 1-800-552-0045. *Katherine & Mike*

33961

33961

33961

Happy Holidays To You and Yours!

Happy ToTo You Yours!

HappyHolidays Holidays Youand and Yours!

156450

Victorian, Country, and Custom Furniture, The Observer Classified Dept. will CLOSE Dec. 23rd at 5pm TheThe Observer Classified Dept. willwill CLOSE Dec. 23rd at 5pm Observer Classified Dept.

CLOSE 23rd at 5pm We will reopen Friday, Jan. 2nd atDec. 8:30am Lots of Jewelry, Paintings & Sculptures, Pottery, for the holidays.

We will reopen Monday, Jan. 4th at 8:30am. forfor thethe holidays.

WeWe willwill reopen Monday, Jan.Jan. 4th 4th at 8:30am. holidays. reopen Monday, at 8:30am.

Oriental Rugs, Asian Decor, Folk Art, Glass, China, Books & many Older Collectibles.

This is a GIANT End of the Year SALE! 13% Buyer’s Premium Items Under $200 For Sale Autos For Sale 3% Discount for Cash or Check ADVERTISE YOUR MERCHANDISE Elliott Bernstein Auctions AUG3504 - AB2545 with the total value of all items $200 or less in Hawley Motors II Gallery Phone: 941-351-3002 this section for FREE! Limit 1 ad per month, 5741 Pinkney Ave. Photos & more: www.auctionzip.com or 15 words or less. Price must be included next to 941-312-5890 www.ebauctions.com each item. No commercial advertising.

Auctioneer ID#8290 Ad runs 2 consecutive weeks in 1 Observer.

2001 BMW Z3 2.5 Convertible, 1 owner, Florida Wishing all of you a safe and (No phone calls please.) car, 96K/miles, $7988 Happy Holiday Season!

(Please provide your name and address) 2004 Mercury Marquis LS Premier, leather, Email ad to: super clean, only 58K/miles, $5988 classified@yourobserver.com 1993 Mazda MX5 Miata, 1 owner, locally owned, MOVING SALE Online at: 97K/miles, only $4988 Friday, December 12 - 8:45a.m.-2p.m. www.yourobserver.com 2009 Scion xD, hatchback, 65K/miles, new tires, Saturday, December 13 - 8:45a.m.-1p.m.

Or mail to: clean, $9988 7102 Point of Rocks Cir. The Observer Group 2008 Toyota Yaris, 1 owner, new tires, $7988 S. end of Siesta Key P.O. Box 3169 2004 Audi A6, 1 owner, good service history, Sarasota, Fl 34230 leather, $7988 Farm house table with drawers, Well vase, 2006 Nissan Altima, 76K miles, well kept, CEDAR CHEST, white, 52”x17”x20”, good condiOriental & Rugs As Art runners, vanity & bench, leather, $8988 tion. $175. Man’s valet chair, w/storage seat $25. easy chair & footstool, wine cabinet, 2008 Buick Lucerne CXL , only 38K/miles!

(941)922-4093. steamer trunk, Asian screen, copper & brass, $13900 2 brush pots, 3 paintings, 2 large Currier & Ives CHRISTMAS ITEMS and decorations, 2 jumbo 2003 Buick LeSabre Custom, leather, prints, circus items, bonsai plants, boxes, great assortment, $50. 941-932-5595. only 72K/miles, clean, $5988 3 large planters, 3 patio lounges, linens, CHRISTMAS VILLAGE Set: 50+ pieces of lighted CDs, DVDs, & more. buildings w/all accessories. Excellent condition, Hawley Motors $199.00 O/B/O. 941-356-6355.

Over 32 Years in Business Sale by Julie McClure Sarasota’s Oldest Dealership COMPUTER: DELL Dual Core, refurbished, $80, Pictures: www.estatesales.net Financing Available 941-756-6728.

Cars Wanted - We Buy Cars!

Dishwasher: Whirlpool Gold. Black, new condition, adjustable top rack, changing to stainless. $185.

PREMIUM ESTATE 941-923-3763.

LIQUIDATORS’ ESTATE SALE Autos Wanted HIGH CHAIRS (2): Evenflo kids, $20.00/ea. Evenflo in Country Club Shores, Longboat Key girls carseats (2) $40.00/ea. HP3052 printer/scan535 Putter Lane GOTTA CAR ner, $40.00. 330-303-5874.

December 12 & 13: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

You Wanna Sell? (numbers out at 8 a.m. for Dec. 12th only) MEN’S TUXEDOS: size 42-44, black, and blue The good, the bad, or the ugly. satin seam, collar. Adjustable waists. $35 each.

Call now!

Don’t miss this sale of EXTRAORDINARY finds 941-953-5222.

727-400-1910. including high end jewelry, art, sculpture, MOVING BOXES: various sizes incl. wardrobes, postmodern furniture and much more!

WE BUY CARS. TOP $$ PAID FOR YOUR wrapping paper, tape and tape shooter. $75.

Proceeds benefit Y programs for at-risk youth.

VEHICLES. Call Hawley Motors, 941-923-3421.

Call 941-706-2399.

Pools/Spas HOT TUBS - Swim Spas - Fiberglass Pools.

Local manufacturer offering to sell directly to the public at wholesale pricing. 941-462-0633.

Reserved Space LP Reserved Space

Want to find a great deal on something you’ve always dreamed of?

155942

The Classifieds Holiday Early Deadlines Deadlines for Dec. 24th, Furnishings The Classifieds Holiday forforDec. 24th, TheObserver Observer Classifieds HolidayEarly EarlyDeadlines Deadlines Dec. 24th, The Observer Observer Classifieds Holiday Early BRAND NEW Serta Queen Pillowtop Mattress Set. th st Dec. 31st and Jan. Dec. 31st and Jan. 7th7th editions.

Dec.for 31st and Jan. editions.

Dec 25 and Jan. 1 7th editions.

Willing to sacrifice for $150. Need to sell quickly!

1BR FURNISHED condo. No car needed here, walk to everything. Will trade for other property.

941-488-1981.

FREE! What every Real Estate buyer or seller needs to know!

Go to: www.yourmarketupdate.com

This week’s Crossword answers

HOUSE CLASSIFIEDS LP # 56733

You never know what you’ll find in the classifieds!

Your source for local Classifieds

2014

This week’s Cryptogram answers

1. Police announced several very valuable poodles, a dalmatian and a maltese had been stolen but they had no leads.

2. When the calculus teacher told his students to focus on the class, most of them were going off on tangents.

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBEROBSERVER/PE 11, 2014 THE SARASOTA

Classifieds 11B

www.yourobserver.com

Thursday, December 11, 2014

11B

Homes For Rent

Carpentry

Painting/Wallpapering

Professional Services

$1250 ANNUAL 2BR/2BA + carport. Palmer Ranch. No pets. CLUB REALTY 941-726-2677

RON VOIT CONSTRUCTION L.L.C. Comm/Res. Room Additions. Interior Renovations. Kitchen and Bath Remodeling. Door and Window Replacement.

Rotted Wood Repairs. Crown Molding and Trim.

Call Ron 941-228-7601. State Lic. CBC1259788.

RICK STEAKLEY PAINTING. Interior/Exterior.

Pressure Washing. Wallpaper Removal. Drywall Repairs. Reasonable. Reliable. Professional.

30+/years experience. References available.

Free Estimates.

Lic./Ins. 941-228-7605, rlsteakley60@gmail.com

VALUE APPRAISALS Francine DiFilippo, AiS/V AiSociety Accredited Value Appraiser

Cleaning

BLUE FISH CLEANING INC. 941-705-3812.

Insured, Bonded. Affordable reliable home cleaning, $80, 2 cleaners, 2 hours.

For Qualified Waiting Clients

BRITISH MAIDS Residential Cleaning Services Weekly, Bi-weekly, Monthly Move-in, Move-out 941-350-8670 Licensed, Bonded & Insured www.sarasotaprofessionalcleaning.com Also offering Home Watch Services

Vacation/Seasonal Rentals DIRECT GULF view high-rise, 2BR/2BA. January through April. Peppertree Bay, Gulfside. Turnkey furnished. Lisa Beach, 941-374-9133.

Adult Care Services PERSONALIZED INDIVIDUAL CARE IN YOUR HOME. Offering non-medical and medical care developed and designed for your wants and needs. Includes: Homemaking, errands, doctor’s visits, transportation, meal prep in conjunction with special dietary needs & medication supervision (plus so much more). For more details call 941.377.4465 or visit our website at www.EldercareSarasota.com or E-mail us at: EldercareSRQ@aol.com. Lic# 30211372, Bonded and Insured.

Air Conditioning GULFSIDE A/C & Heating, LLC. SALES & SERVICE, FREE ESTIMATES! 10 MINUTE RESPONSE. Visa/MC/Disc. Lic. #CAC1816929 941-962-6863.

Auto Transport SHIP YOUR CAR, TRUCK OR SUV anywhere in the United States. Great rates, fast quotes. Call Hawley Motors, 941-923-3421.

62/'

www.yourobserver.com

I work with clients: • Navigating a career transition, career search or thinking about a career shift • Wanting to set and achieve a work-related goal • Experiencing a challenge in the work environment • Confused, stuck or looking for more satisfaction, success or happiness at work

EXPERIENCED HOUSEKEEPER. Attention to detail. Great references available. Call Ana, 941-536-4521.

HOUSE CLEANING, housekeeping, pet sitting, window washing. Excellent services by European couple. 941-350-8072.

ND SPARKLE. We are a family business experienced in both home and office cleaning great rates. Call for a quote. 941-330-4466. Email: norgrasi@hotmail.com

The Co-Active coaching approach focuses on the present and looks to the future – where you are today and where you want to go.

Together, we create a space for transformation and, as your coach, I’ll assist in calling forth change with urgency, action and accountability.

A CLEANING MOTHER−IN−LAWS APPROVE REAL CLEANING... not just dusting!

All types of cleaning. Insured.

(941) 320−0023 www.CleanTimeServices.com

Computer Services OWN A MAC/iPHONE/iPAD? MacTutor has 21+ years experience teaching Apple products.

I speak English, not “Geek”! (941) 323-2363 www.FLMacTutor.com

Home Improvement/ Remodeling MITCHELL HANDYMAN. Painting, Carpentry, Tile, Pressure Cleaning. Total Home Improvements, Repairs. Small and large! 941-284-8488.

Painting/Wallpapering CARLO DATTILO PAINTING. Licensed & insured.

Interior/ Exterior painting including drywall repair and retexturing. Wallpaper installation & removal, pressure washing. Residential & commercial, condos. Honest & reliable. Free estimates.

941-744-1020. 35+ years experience.

AIR CONDITIONING

How it works: • 40 minute complementary session • Coaching Agreement (agree on how we'll work together) • Client goal-setting, "discovery" exercises and ongoing sessions • Client homework/assignment at the end of each session (driven by the client) Coaching is not advice-giving, counseling or consulting. Curious what it's about and how it can help you think and act in new ways?

E-mail: hello@coachromy.com for a complementary session.

Team Up With Classifieds

“Specializing in 6” Seamless Gutters” Yoderaluminum.com

AMERICAN SHUTTERS

941-914-8408 1-2 Week Turnaround Time

Free Estimates • Free Installation

Sharon M. Guy, P.A.

Lic# CAC1816809

552-5766

157783

Law Office of

Classified Ads Bring Results 941-955-4888 ALTERATIONS/UPHOLSTERY

Office in Palmer Ranch 8586 Potter Park Drive, Sarasota, FL 34238

AUTO SERVICE

Frank Beck Upholstery

CALL NOW!

BOAT SERVICES

WILLS, TRUSTS, PROBATE, ELDER LAW

Sharon M. Guy

Call: 955-4888 Email: classified@yourobserver.com Online: www.YourObserver.com

Custom Made at Our Shop

ATTORNEY

Shop Online

www.heatbusters.net

Yellow color $5 per Week • Border as low as $3 per Week

PLANTATION SHUTTER SPECIALIST

15505 Lemon Fish Dr. Dustin Yoder Bradenton, FL 34202 yoderaluminum@gmail.com Office 941-650-9790

941-518-8550

First 15 words .......................$17.50 per week Each Add’l word ........................................ 50¢ 15% DISCOUNT for 4 week Run

BLINDS/WINDOW TREATMENTS

Yoder Aluminum Inc.

Prompt, Professional A/C/ Service

CLASSIFIED LINE AD PRICE

YOUR SOURCE FOR LOCAL CLASSIFIED ADS

955-4888

Insured

Air Conditioning & Heating LLC

Property Management LANDLORD ALERT!! We have Tenant’s!!!

Wanted: 1-3BR Homes/Condos, Furnished or Unfurnished. Siesta Key Realty Incorporated, 941-349-8900, www.siestakeyrealtyrentals.com

MAKE YOUR PHONE RING

ALUMINUM

HEAT BUSTERS

OWN A Personal/Company Jet. Wanted interested parties in complete or partnership on a personal/ business jets. Whole or one half to one third ownership. Why charter when you can fly your own personal aircraft. Not a charter or management company! Completely private personal service with 38 years’ experience in purchasing, sales, management and flight operations. Contact: Eddie Hill 863−368−0428 http://sarasota.craigslist.org/trv/4794717034.html

Floating Dockage for Rent on Intercoastal Direct Gulf Access Monthly Rent Includes: water, pump out, dock boxes, WIFI

Mention this ad and get $100 off first month rent

FUEL AND BAIT NOW AVAILABLE!!

509 N Tamiami Tr, Venice, FL 34285

941 486 0500

fishermanswharffl.com

DOCKSIDE BOAT REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE SMS Mobile Marine Service GPS/Fishfinder Installation • Outboards I/O’s • Inboards Call for appointment • 941-232-3523 CERTIFIED & INSURED

CLEANING

Mercy’s Cleaning Service Commercial and Residential Best Prices in Town

Home Furnishing Restoration and Upholstery Specialist!

We Use Organic Products

Honesty • Integrity • Quality • Value In shop free estimates Pick up and delivery services available

724-1395

Cell (941)

Licensed • Free Estimates

155946

Personalized attention with professional honest advice.

25 Years Experience - References available

About Coach Romy: I am a Big Four consultant turned career and corporate coach, dedicated to helping individuals find career clarity and job satisfaction. Having been in the trenches, I understand the challenges of being stuck.

I believe that we create our own reality - for better or worse - and more often than not we need to re-create what we know to be "true" to make space for new and surprising possibilities.

156278

email: info@sarasotaluxuryrentals.com

Co-Active Corporate and Career Coaching ARE YOU FEELING STUCK?

157179

Contact - Sarasota Luxury Rentals 941-225-1356

Professional Services

157819

WANTED LUXURY ANNUAL RENTALS

Estate * Antiques * Collectibles Artwork * Jewelry * Furniture 941-923-3597

156630

Real Estate Wanted

AUGUSTINE’S CLEANING COMPANY. House cleaning, organizing.

Dependable, Professional.

Move in/ Move out.

Heidi 941-724-3425. Service you can trust.

157325

Homes For Sale WEST OF Trail. One level, near Selby with Community Boat Dock. 3BR/3BA, pool. Potential Mother-in-Law. Brooke O’Malley, CLUB REALTY 941-726-2677.

Allow me to do my very best for you!

155947

941• 925 • 2447

155944

ESTABLISHED 1975!

Gulf Gate Village 6568 Superior Ave., Sarasota, FL 34231

157324

Hours: Monday-Friday 9am - 3pm • Weekends by appointment

SARASOTA OBSERVER THE SARASOTA OBSERVER/ THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014 Thursday, December 11, 2014

www.yourobserver.com

CLEANING

DRYWALL

DON’T LET YOUR

CHALMERS DRYWALL

DRYER START A FIRE!

HOME SERVICES

• Repair • Remodel • New Construction Licensed/Insured • Free Estimates

Call Paradise Dryer Vent Cleaning Today

780-3788 • 822-0436 156267

GET YOUR NAME OUT THERE!

Dryers and washing machines were involved in one out of every 22 home structure ďŹ res LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED reported to U.S. ďŹ re departments in 2006-2010.

www.paradisedryervent.com

Advertise your business in The Observer Service Directory.

Call 941-955-4888 to advertise

ELECTRIC

156280

Lic. # 46264

• Installation • Access Control • Maintenance • System Design

LIGHTHOUSE ELECTRIC

ADDY’S CLEANING SERVICE

of Sarasota

• One Time, Weekly, Monthly • Res./Comm. • Move Ins/Outs • Carpet Cleaning • References • Free Est. ★ Very Affordable Rates ★

156281

3687954-01

COMPUTER

3690387-01

Franklin Kenny • Electrical Contractor

Ph. 376-4228

Lic. #ER0013984

377-2272

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THE SARASOTA SARASOTA OBSERVEROBSERVER/PE THURSDAY, Thursday, DECEMBER December11, 11,2014 2014

Sell your service with success.

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SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

Vibrant Downtown Living Palm Bay Club-Siesta Key Move In Ready-Siesta Key

#1 Agent in the Siesta Key Office for 23 years!

etsy B de MANIO

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

PRIC

Realtor®

Orange Blossom Tower, 1330 Main St. #3     

office: 941-349-2922 cell: 941-914-5540 betsy@betsydemanio.com

ER

New To Market

ED! C U D E

3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths, 3,954 sq. ft. in historic building 2 Private Terraces with 950+ sq. ft. of Outdoor Living Space Private entry lobbies & concierge service Pet friendly; 2 Secured parking spaces www.OrangeBlossom3.com MLS A4101371

Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate 5145 Ocean Blvd., Sarasota, FL

$1,675,000

5966 Midnight Pass Rd. G52

 Rarely available direct Beachfront on 5th floor  Dazzling Views of crystal white sands on #1 Siesta Key Beach 1 Bedroom/1 Bath, 905 sq. ft.  Oversized Bedrooom with 2 Queen beds  Excellent Rental with 3 day minimum, Turnkey Furnished MLSA4107395

$799,000

1214 Sea Plume Way

 Canalfront home, no bridges to Sarasota Bay!  Only 1 block to delightful Crescent Beach!  Totally remodeled pool home in quiet neighborhood  New kitchen, new metal roof, new flooring  3 BR/3BA, 3684 sq. ft, 2 garages and elevator

$1,200,000

Voted Sarasota Magazine’s Five Star Agent “Best in Client Satisfaction” 8 Years in a Row Coldwell Banker - International President’s Premier Agent

Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate Owned and Operated by NRT,LLC

DIRECT BEACH FRONT ON SIESTA KEY November 2014

The closest property to the beach currently on the market on Siesta Key. just steps to the cool white quartz sands of Siesta Beach and less than 50 feet to the Mexico. The Northernmost beachfront parcel on Beach Road with no buildings next to it for panoramic views. Beautiful 4 level contemporary modern art deco style townhome/home with elevator. Each of the three levels in the main living areas boast a 35 foot balcony to relax with your favorite libation and watch the sun set over the Gulf. $5,495,000 MLS#A3989404

ct ntra o C er !

Und 1 Day in KEY WEST STYLE ON GRAND CANAL

3BR/2BA built in 2005 with outdoor Tiki Bar & pool/spa. Huge lower level bonus area, pool shower and a 4 car garage for all your toys. Open floor plan; gourmet kitchen w/huge pantry; large rooms; elevator, wood burning fireplace; vaulted ceilings; walk-in closets; beautiful master suite. A must-see o Palm Island. $1,675,000 MLS#A3990080

Jay and Kyle Mitchell 941.586.1754

Greg Hudson 941.302.1485

Top Closing Associate in Units

Top Closing Associate in Volume

George Miller 941.374.1000

Lois Seropian 941.356.4195

CANAL FRONT ON PALM ISLAND

So BEACHES, BOATING & BISTROS

Top Selling Associate in Units & Volume

Charming Canal Front Palm Island Home. A Island on the Island. Spacious 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom pool home with gorgeous views of the Grand Canal. Short walk to World famous Siesta Beach and Siesta Village. Boat lift on site for the boating enthusiast. Estate sale. $745,000 MLS#A4107510

2 ld in

4BR/4BA on Palm Island. New kitchen, master bedroom & bathroom. New boat lift on Grand Canal. Heated pool and spa, private Waterfront Tiki Bar. Lovely tropical view across the canal. Huge bonus area on lower level. A short walk to World Famous Siesta Beach & Siesta Village. $915,000 MLS#A3979580

Top Listing Associates in Units and Volume

s!

Day

GULF-to-BAY COMMUNITY

2BR/2BA furnished Northeast corner unit at Peppertree Bay I has a screen and glass enclosed 30x12 “Florida Room”. Only units on this floor feature a walkout wrap around patio providing approximately 1,100 Sq. Ft. of outdoor living to the 1,105 Sq. Ft. of interior air conditioned space. $307,000 MLS#A4107313

To View these or other area properties, Tropical Sands Realty, Broker

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

Call Dan Miller at 941-376-7442 ddm1@comcast.net

5145 Ocean Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34242 | 941.349.4411 | FloridaMoves.com

©2014 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company.

Equal Housing Opportunity. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. 6537FL_1/13

158108

Stephanie Church Stephanie Church 941.724.5448 941.724.5448

1333 DRIVE, 7445VISTA Sanderling Road,SARASOTA Sarasota

StephanieChurch@michaelsaunders.com StephanieChurch@michaelsaunders.com

171 WHITTIER DRIVE, SARASOTA 1425 Westway Road, Sarasota

Inspired by the understated luxury of a Caribbean villa, this Discover an exclusive waterfront lifestyle, beautifully poised on Siesta brand new, home offers serene water from Key within thetwo-story only gated Gulf front community in Sarasota.

Thisviews oversized itslotprime location ft of and Sarasota Bay. Lagoon The approximately rests between theon Gulf100 of Mexico tranquil Heron 5,800 sq. ft.ofof interior space is definedClub by residents gracefully proportioned with 89 feet water frontage.

The Sanderling enjoy deeded beach access,designed private cabanas hugging the shores of theareas, Gulf, a and sumptuously living and entertaining 15 slip bayside marina, three tennis courtsrooms, and a vibrant social room, calendar. including formal living and dining a family den/study and five bedrooms with the potential for a sixth.

MLS# A3986618 $2,000,000 MLS#A4107634 $5,995,000

www.StephanieChurch.com www.StephanieChurch.com

This magnificent beachfront property offers the ultimate Positioned on Westway Drive, arguably the most prestigious address in setting to make your a features reality. refined, Sarasota, this expansive leveldream grassed lot anThis impressive 96 feet contemporary island retreat is truly in of a Mexico class of own. of water frontage, with sweeping views over the Gulf andits New Full Gulf of Mexico views will bedock experienced fromand each Pass. In addition to the new seawall, a boat is already permitted canits be customized to meet your constructed watercraft needs,levels, while private deeded of three masterfully with 4,100 sq. ft. beach access invites you is to relax the pristineprivate sands of Lido of living area that bothonserenely yetBeach. open to the beauty of the seascape.

MLS# A3993117 $2,800,000 MLS#A4101700 $4,495,000

www.facebook.com/srqrealestateagent www.facebook.com/srqrealestateagent

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

Judie Berger

15B

Trust THE REALTOR WITH PROVEN RESULTS

NEW LISTING

“Without a doubt you are the best we have ever worked with. A true professional, you listened to ensure you understood our concerns; you meticulously prepared the necessary information to best present our

4034 Roberts Point Road

$3,095,000 5827 Riegels Harbor Road

Sailboat water with Bay & Bayou docks. 6,000 sq ft under air.

Rare 2/3 acre lot, 5beds/5.5baths. Guest house, 6+ car garage.

$2,249,000 8254 Roseburn Court

$1,999,000

Casually elegant waterfront home, 50’ sailboat deep water dock, 5beds/3.5baths, near Siesta Beach, sweeping water views, chef’s kitchen.

Exquisite custom home, unparalleled quality and finishes, built in 2006.

Lake front estate lot in gated golf community, 5beds/5baths, office.

SOLD

SOLD

home and you offered us valuable knowledge all the way through the process. As good as you are at all the other Realtor skills; you absolutely shine as a negotiator.

-Peter & Mary Gravelle Sarasota, FL and Plymouth, MA

449 Canal Road

$1,295,000 5353 Cape Leyte Drive

Siesta Key waterfront townhome, 3 beds/3 baths/2-car garage.

Great rental history. Wood floors, boat dock, private pool.

LP $1,085,000

Siesta Key canal waterfront home near beach, 3beds/3baths, 154’ frontage on deep water, boat lift & gorgeous tropical yard.

3147 Founders Club Drive

Your

Top producer on SieSTa Key - premier SoTheby’S inTernaTional realTy a leader in SaraSoTa reSidenTial SaleS VoTed SaraSoTa magazine’S FiVe STar agenT “beST in clienT SaTiSFacTion” 8 yearS in a row Specializing in luxury marKeTing and negoTiaTion diScreeT conSulTaTionS

LP $1,395,000

Luxurious Country Club Estate home with lake and preserve views. 4beds/5.5baths, Equity golf membership included.

Expert

Siesta Key

941.479.3880

Judie Berger

PA, ABR, GRI

Judie.Berger@SothebysRealty.com

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

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

GULF FRONT ESTATE SIESTA KEY...

West of the Trail Vintage Charm!

1 ACRE GULF FRONT ESTATE

Sandy Hook Road – Siesta Key, Florida 2626Sandy Hook Road

$6,200,000

D!

CE EDU

CE R

PRI

1715 Prospect Street

Built in 2003 - 5,033 SF Anchor Builders built Home with Custom Quality Amenities, 4BD/4BA +pool bath & powder room, Summer Room/Outdoor Kitchen w/ Fireplace, Office, Elevator, Open Floor Plan, 5 Balconies, Central Vacuum, Wine Room. Heated Pool/Spa, Fire Pit, 10+ Car Garage, Crown Molding, Elevated 40’ Ceilings, Built-ins, Private Deeded Beach Access, Tropical Plantings, Panoramic view of the Gulf. 280’ of Gulf Frontage.

Seeing is Believing!! MLS#3984182 $5,900,000 Open by Appointment. Send text code T24602 to 82035 for more information and photos

Ron Stahl

Ron Stahl Realty

941.374.1671

rstahlrlty@aol.com

4 Bedrooms, 2 full and 2 half baths, 3310 Sq Ft x 23’ Screened back porch with built-in kitchen ·· Expanded ·· 14’Heated and remodeled in 2001 lagoon style pool/spa with waterfalls kitchen, Thermador gas range, ample cabinets Close to sought after Southside School, ·· Gourmet · dining, family room, den and office Southside Village and Morton’s Market 8’ x 24’ Front porch · Living, MLS A4105900

etsy

B MANIO de

BEST DEALS ON SIESTA KEY

The grand entry leads to a spacious living room with large Anderson hurricane windows with built-in entertainment center and the formal dining room is adorned with hand painted murals. The chefs dream dine-in kitchen offers granite throughout, custom cabinetry, Wolf gas range/Subzero refrigerator, and prep island.

Home in Twin Oak Pond For Sale

Enjoy outdoor living in the adjacent lanai (20 x 24) with a full kitchen and custom fireplace all over-looking the sparkling gulf waters. Each of the four bedrooms has its own full bath. A few of the many outstanding features include: elevated ceilings, wine room, powder room, crown molding, plantation shutters, elevator, central vacuum, security system including live feed video, 3 zoned heating and air conditioning systems, outdoor shower, and hurricane impact windows/doors.

941-374-1671 rstahlrlty@aol.com

Ron Stahl Realty

Anthony Aveni, PA

Realtor®

office: 941-349-2922 cell: 941-914-5540 betsy@betsydemanio.com

Custom designed 5,033 sq. ft. home on world-famous Siesta Key's Cresent quartz sand beach.

This beautiful home is within walking distance to the "Village" which offers shopping, restaurants and entertainment.

This Anchor Builders home was completed in 2003. Seeing is believing...

Ron Stahl REALTOR®

$869,000

Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate Ocean Sarasota, FL by NRT,LLC Coldwell Banker5145 Residential Real Blvd., Estate Owned and Operated

office: 941-349-2922 cell: 941-504-1194 tony.aveni@floridamoves.com

158112

A Florida Paradise...

Enjoy the cozy fire pit, heated pool(15 x 40)/spa + pool bath all just steps to the beach. This home has a 3-door side entry 10+ car garage with ample storage for boats, canoes, jet skis and your collectables. Every attention to detail has been included in this luxurious beach front property. Must be seen to be fully appreciated. It is truly a 'one of a kind' home on Florida's west coast. MLS #A3984182

1718 Main Street, Suite 207 Sarasota, FL 34236

Shirley Dabringhaus Broker

Selling Sarasota Since 1988 Ich spreche Deutsch

Je parle Français

941.587.9288 shirleydab@comcast.net www.sarasotasunset.com 2015 Five Star Real Estate Agent - 8x Recipient

Unique opportunity! 3BD/2BA, pool home situated on Selby Garden-like lot. Asking $549,000

Condo at the Beach Way

Beautiful 2 story home nestled on a spacious piece of property with just over 2 acres.

The kitchen features granite countertops, built in oven and microwave , stove top, and granite island. Mother-in-law suite and master suite have full baths. Marble floors throughout. The fireplace room is tiled and French doors lead to a screened lanai. 3 more bedrooms and 2 baths are upstairs, with crown molding throughout and lots of closet space.

Close to University Towne Center Mall. Shopping, theatre, airport, restaurants nearby.

Bring your horses. Move in ready. Owner Motivated MLS#A3997031 Offered at $550,000

Call for appointment to view...

2100 Constitution Blvd.

Sarasota, FL 34231

Rare, ground floor corner unit. 2 BD/2BA, Turnkey furnished, excellent condition. Asking $449,000

Mary Jo Pribe, Realtor Atchley International Realty

941-716-4569

16B

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

SPG

Schemmel Property Group

REPRESENTING

Most Amazing Properties

Indian Beach 916 Indian Beach Drive $2,895,000

Bay Isles – Longboat Key 501 Harbor Point Drive $3,495,000

Casey Key 2816 Casey Key Road $1,650,000

West of Trail 3811 Camino Real $1,065,000

Prestancia 4175 Escondito Circle $895,000

Prestancia 7448 Monte Verde $695,000

Prestancia 7364 Mara Vista $405,000

Joel Schemmel, J.D. 941.587.4894 joel.schemmel@sothebysrealty.com Sharon Chiodi 941.809.0380 sharon.chiodi@sothebysrealty.com

SchemmelPropertyGroup.com

Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity Property information herein is derived from various sources including but not limited to county records and the multiple listing service, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate.

Nokomis | 2115 Lychee Lane

$2,495,000

158105

facebook.com/schemmelpropertygroup

Diversions YourObserver.com

A&E

Watercolor Society captures fluidity of life.

PAGE 2

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

FOOD

Chefs cook up a good time at James Beard dinner.

PAGE 12

HOME&GARDEN | HOME OF THE MONTH

BLACK TIE

Humane Society Gala PAGE 13

by Robert Plunket | Contributing Writer

the deep blue

GOODBYE

John D. MacDonald’s Siesta Key home was the birthplace of the Florida crime novel.

Courtesy photo

HOME&GARDEN COVER STORY CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

2

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: H2 WHOA

by Nick Reichert | A&E Editor

BEAUTIFUL MINDS Local watercolor society creates an artistic splash in latest exhibition.

N

Nick Reichert

Kris Parins, local artist and member of the Florida Suncoast Watercolor Society, won first prize at the FSWS’s latest juried exhibition.

Water Club

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5900 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite K Sarasota, Fl 34231 State Certified General Contractor CG-C060087

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2095 Siesta Drive

Across from Westfield Mall

941.951.1822 Cell: 941.724.2353 Call for an appointment

siestainteriorsfl.com

CBC1252877

158020

Player’s Club

o matter where Kris Parins goes, ideas are always swirling all around her. She’s always looking for her next painting: the way the light hits an object, the way colors pop out of a landscape.

With a father who loved to paint watercolor and an uncle who worked in the graphic design field, Parins’ interest, passion and talent for art was all but inevitable.

When she moved in 2003 to Sarasota after a career in advertising and design as a graphic artist, Parins found the perfect outlet for her creativity in the Florida Suncoast Watercolor Society, which she joined as soon as she heard about it.

“I was blown away by how organized, welcoming and supportive they are,” says Parins.

“It’s very inclusive, and there is something for everyone.”

The Florida Suncoast Watercolor Society has been championing, presenting and teaching the art and craft of watercolor for more than 30 years. Founded in 1983, FSWS has combined the talents of retired artists up and down the west coast of Florida who share a love of watercolor.

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

3

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT

“Remembrance” by Diane Schmidt

“Bowled Over” by Jerome Chesley

“Breakfast with Tiffanys” by Kris Parins

We’re all friends who share and learn from each other. — Mary Louise Ringers Converging their talents with at least three juried shows a year, the society’s watercolorists have shown regionally, nationally and abroad. The society’s next juried show will be held Dec. 11 through Jan. 16, at the Art Center Sarasota. The fact that Dean Mitchell, one of the most awarded and accomplished watercolor artists, is the juror of the exhibition speaks to the society’s quality.

Although it serves as a platform for its most awarded talent, the FSWS at its core is a supportive and educational community of artists of every skill level.

“People aren’t closed off about their process,” says Mary Louise Ringers, president of the society.

“We’re all friends who share and learn with each other. There’s a lot of camaraderie in the Suncoast.”

With regular public workshops, classes and juried exhibitions in Englewood, Sarasota, Bradenton and Anna Maria Island, the Florida Suncoast Watercolor Society is an organization fueled by passion and learning.

“When you come down here from another place with no family or friends, you immediately pick up a connection with people who are like-minded and social,” says Jerome Chesley, former art professor and vice president of the FSWS. “When I found the Florida Suncoast, I latched onto it.”

Friendliness and fraternity notwithstanding, what makes the society is the stunning watercolor art its members produce. Diane Schmidt, a signature member of the American Watercolor Society, was raised

in Tucson, Ariz., and worked as an artist for Hallmark Cards while living in Kansas City, Mo. Schmidt’s portfolio is filled with striking and powerful watercolors that blur the lines between abstract and portraiture.

“It’s the first society that I ever joined,” says Schmidt. “It really was a launching pad for me and has made me a better artist.”

Schmidt constructs her abstracts, which burst with intense and exact colors, through a formalized process. Instead of the typical method of spontaneously splashing paint over the canvas like a feverish Rorschach test, Schmidt is methodical in vision and application. There’s always an idea.

For Parins, she trains her eye like an Olympic athlete, always searching for her next piece. Every car ride, trip or errand is po-

tential location casting for her next work. With her camera always by her side, Parins captures moments of people and places that tickle her artistic fancy.

“I’m very inspired by the contrasts of light and dark in what I see during my travels,” says Parins. “I’ll spend a fair amount of my time looking at all these photos and manipulating them on the computer until I have a good subject for a painting.”

Parins’ artistic vision is characteristic of the other watercolorists in the group.

“It’s a way of memorializing something I get excited about,” says Parins, “and it’s nothing monumental but subjects more from everyday life.”

Attraction and attention to the remarkable in everyday life is a major theme for members of the Florida Suncoast Watercolor So-

ciety. Ringers, Chesley, Schmidt and Parins all expressed a delight of instilling in a viewer a lingering eye, to pause and reflect on the beauty that surrounds them.

“I hope people walk away after seeing one of my paintings with a realization that it’s a beautiful world,” says Ringers.

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DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: ROVING RÉPÉTITEUR

by Nick Reichert | A&E Editor

MOBILE MASTER James Jordan walks down the hall with a light grace. He is a dancer and educator with an erudite and unassuming air.

But make no mistake, this ballet dancer and new ballet master and répétiteur at the Sarasota Ballet has grit.

The Sarasota Ballet hired James Jordan earlier this spring to join its close-knit and respected dancing family and community. Along with seasoned Director Iain Webb, répétiteur and Assistant Director Margaret Barbieri, ballet master Pavel Fomin and resident choreographer Ricardo Graziano, Jordan will be instrumental in Webb’s ongoing mission of continuing Sarasota Ballet’s reputation for creating quality productions of popular and rare classics. Sir Frederick Ashton’s “La Fille mal Gardée,” Dec. 19 and 20, at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, is a fulllength and technically challenging piece that Jordan dove into with the company at the beginning of the season.

“It’s been such a thrill to be a part of that Ashton masterpiece,” says Jordan. “It really is such a special work.”

Jordan’s journey into dance has been one of intense study, travel and determination. However, unlike most dancers, there wasn’t a central teacher or role model who encouraged Jordan to study ballet. It all came from within. He stumbled across a

makeshift ballet class that a few of the cheerleaders from his rural high school in Staunton, Va., were taking from a Mormon woman who taught in a church basement on a concrete tile floor.

This early episode in his dance career would come to characterize Jordan’s dance journey: an odyssey of constantly searching for the best place to dance, constantly bettering his technique and uncovering and documenting works on the brink of extinction.

Jordan’s first stop after graduating high school was the Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond. Though initially enrolled in the school’s theater department, Jordan discovered the Richmond Ballet. He was quickly drafted into the company and offered a scholarship due to his classic, tall body type and the company’s natural shortage of men to lift their ballerinas.

“It was a positive starting experience,” says Jordan, “but along with that there were these 13-year-old wunderkind girls who were dancing circles around me and giggling at this 6-foot-tall man who didn’t know practically anything.”

However, Jordan’s time at VCU only lasted a year, and he transferred to the University of North Carolina School of the Arts in Winston-Salem, N.C. There Jordan would meet the man who would cement his life in the bal-

Nick Reichert

James Jordan, rehearsing with corps de ballet dancer Abbey Kay, is bringing more than 30 years of craft to the Sarasota Ballet. letic arts: Todd Bolender.

A renowned dancer, choreographer and teacher who came of age during the Great Depression, Bolender originated numerous roles in works by George

Balanchine and Jerome Robbins. Bolender recruited the young Jordan and three others in his class for the opportunity to dance for his company at the Kansas City Ballet.

James Jordan brings experience and determination to the Sarasota Ballet.

“It was an opportunity to be a part of a virtually new company where I wouldn’t just be stepping into someone else’s shoes on the back row,” says Jordan. “I was going to be a part of a new idea.”

Over nearly the next 30 years, Jordan amassed countless hours of dancing, teaching and staging ballet for the Kansas City Ballet as a principal dancer, teacher, ballet master and répétiteur. And now, in his first year as a part from the Sarasota Ballet, he’ll continue a new facet of his ballet story: conservator. Jordan will work to revive those pieces from dance masters long gone by collaborating with dancers from the original productions.

As a member and répétiteur of the Antony Tudor Ballet Trust, Jordan has striven to produce, preserve and record the steps and choreography of the British master’s most popular and obscure works while at the Kansas City Ballet. Jordan should find kinsmen in his quest to preserve Tudor’s choreography because Sarasota Ballet is the American home of Ashton’s works, choreography and legacy. Jordan hopes to perform more Tudor pieces and feels his contribution will only expand the ballet’s already impressive repertoire.

“I feel like I’ve gotten on a fastmoving train that’s going uphill,” says Jordan. “It really is a glorious time, and the past is so rich but the future is so limitless.”

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DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: ART WORLD

5

by Nick Reichert | A&E Editor

Jorge Blanco’s work goes GLOBAL After his first showing at Christie’s in New York, Sarasota artist Jorge Blanco reflects on his worldwide reach.

Do you sell most of your pieces via auction or through private exchanges?

I deal directly to the collectors and through galleries and art dealers.

Dominican Republic Caracas, Venezuela Colombia

How has the art world changed between when you started and now?

Indonesia

Punta del Este, Uruguay

WHERE IN THE WORLD IS JORGE How do you begin a new work?

I begin by sketching out ideas.

After this I make small maquettes in paper; sometimes I make slightly larger ones in metal. After this I draft the final drawings to begin the construction process.

Everything is carefully thought out.

Tokyo

Today there are more new forms of expression because there are new technologies and new materials. But, at the same time, there is more trash art and more fake art.

What is the highest price a piece of your art has sold for?

Ninety thousand dollars.

What inspires you?

The joy of living.

BLANCO?

Locations where Blanco’s art is on display “The Rollers 28”

by Jorge Blanco was sold at auction by Christie's in New York for $20,000.

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How many of your pieces have been sold at auction at the premier auction houses such as Christie's or Sotheby's?

This was my first experience.

United States: Petoskey, Mich.

Leawood, Kan. Park City, Utah Reno, Nev. Chula Vista, Calif.

Cleveland Norfolk, Va. Fort Pierce, Fla. Jupiter, Fla. Palm Beach, Fla. Venice, Fla. Longboat Key, Fla. Sarasota, Fla. Pittsburgh New York

Europe: Switzerland Belgium France Spain Germany

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Known for his large, colorful statue installations, Jorge Blanco’s work can be spotted throughout the Sarasota area.

Blanco, a Venezuelan artist, recently had his first showing and auction at Christie’s in New York; the piece sold for $20,000.

Blanco’s work can be found in cities large and small across four continents. A retrospective of his work is currently on display at the O. Ascanio Gallery until Dec. 21 and was featured during Art Basel Miami.

“The most significant aspect of the art festival is the valuable interchange between thousands of expressions and millions of people around the world in four days,” says Blanco. “Another significant element is that my work is seen by thousands of people who appreciate and understand my sculpture. This, for me, is very exciting. I enjoy it very much.”

We talked with Blanco about his journey and the artistic process:

6

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: SPEAK THE SPEECH

by Nick Reichert | A&E Editor

The Voice Within

John Burr instructs burgeoning actors and performers in the field of voiceover.

John Burr is Sarasota’s resident master, teacher and expert on all things of recorded voice.

Although his career has included everything from working as a professional trombone player to being the assistant conductor of the U.S. Air Force’s Singing Sergeants chorus, Burr found work as a voiceover actor by happenstance.

After years working in traditional music and theater, Burr built a recording studio in the 1980s in Washington, D.C., aimed at symphony and orchestra recording. However, he soon seized the vast market for quality voiceover work after various actors asked for assistance on vocal delivery and recording.

“The largest misconception most people have is that they think voiceover is easy,” says Burr. “It isn’t, and one of the first things my students say when they first start working is, Nick Reichert ‘Man this is hard.’”

John Burr giving student Trine Bølling some vocal delivery notes in his home studio.

In 2003, Burr and his wife moved to Sarasota. Burr slowly itable voiceover talent pools in sional in the studio. His ears, That in-person teaching is esmoved his lucrative production the state. powered by decades of listening sential for what Burr does — he studio from D.C. to Florida. That Burr instructs all of his stu- and musical performance, ana- re-teaches students how to read business included voiceover dents one-on-one in his invit- lyze every syllable, sound and and speak. work by himself and his stu- ing home studio. Though his sentence his students say.

“There’s an aspect of acting, dents for Fortune 500 compa- house is packed with a library’s “I’m one of the few people in English language dynamics and nies such as IBM, Marriott, Xe- worth of books on film and per- the country who does one-on- how they are going to use the rox and Lockheed-Martin. And, formance and features art that one training exclusively in per- language,” says Burr. He articusince 2011, Burr has taught and nods to fanciful animation, son and via Skype for students lates to his students when and developed one of the most prof- Burr is pragmatic and profes- abroad,” says Burr. what words to hit in their deliv-

ery, what to emphasize, where to insert upward and downward inflections, and where to pause.

And he teaches them to avoid the most common beginner’s mistake: talking too fast.

“The whole thing about voiceover that’s so important is to get to the point that when you deliver a script it sounds so real to the listener they’d swear you were talking to them,” he says.

Authenticity is the prime quality when it comes to voiceover performers’ most common jobs such as ads, museum audio tours, digital assistants such as Apple’s Siri, documentaries, audiobooks and, during heated election years, political attack ads. And in a world where male voices were the industry norm, female voiceover performers have increased exponentially in recent years with clients wanting the soothing, and relaxed mood the female voice exudes.

But no matter the gender of the voiceover performer, it all comes back to the connection a live performer creates with his audience.

“You have to have a common sense about human interaction,” says Burr. “I’m not just reading and recording a script.

I’m talking to somebody with purpose and honesty.”

One of the first things my students say when they first start working is, ‘Man this is hard.’

— John Burr

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

7

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: HIGHLIGHTS

SARASOTA CRAFT SHOW

‘FIGURATIVELY SPEAKING’ OPENING RECEPTION

Thursday, Dec. 4, at Robarts Arena

Friday, Dec. 5, at Dabbert Gallery Photos by Nick Reichert

Photos by Nick Reichert

Mary Erickson, Bill Farnsworth and David Dabbert

Munir Doumet, Sana Doumet and Lee Marraccini

Carol and Jean-Pierre Hsu

Aja Ohman and William Kidd

Robert and Sherry Rogers, Hunt and Mary Deutsch, Pat Dabbert and James Griffin

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DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: REVIEWS

THEATER

warm. Shepherd’s characters are flawed human beings, not plaster saints. The love they share feels real.

— Marty Fugate

MUSIC

// ‘A Christmas Story: The Musical’ Just in time for the holidays, The Players has unwrapped “A Christmas Story: The Musical,” with book by Joseph Robinette and music and lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. It’s an adaptation of Bob Clark’s 1983 film adaptation of Jean Shepherd’s fictionalized memoirs of his pre World War II Indiana childhood. As holiday classics go, it’s up there with “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.”

Many Christmas musicals celebrate the sacred story behind it all. This isn’t one of them. As the kids on “South Park” observed, Christmas is about one important thing: presents. In this case, a child’s mad obsession with a BB gun, specifically, an “official Red Ryder Carbine-Action 200-Shot Range Model Air Rifle with a compass in the stock and this thing which tells time.”

The kid doing the obsessing is Ralphie, the stand-in for Shepherd. His parents and every adult authority figure in sight tell him, “No. You’ll shoot your eye out.” Eyesight aside, at December’s dawn, Ralphie begins a stealthy campaign of manipulation to achieve his heart’s desire. Along the way, tongues are stuck to frozen flagpoles, bullies are trounced, and his father (aka “The Old Man”) wins a “major award” in the form of a lascivious leg lamp. In case you’re one of the five people in America who hasn’t seen the movie, I won’t tell you if Ralphie gets the rifle or not — but what do you think?

It’s a delightfully unsentimental view of childhood. At one point, Ralphie says the “F-word.” Mom demands to know where he heard it. Ralphie knows that if he says, “Dad,” the Old Man will never buy him that BB gun — so he fingers his innocent friend Flick (Noah Kunkel), instead. Flick gets

// Sarasota Orchestra Masterworks II Concert

Courtesy photos

“A Christmas Story: The Musical” runs through Dec. 21, at The Players Theatre, 838 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. For more information, call 365-2494 or visit theplayers.org. loudly whipped, off stage. Not cute, eh? No. But an honest depiction of preteen realpolitik.

The busy Berry Ayers directs and choreographs, coordinates the music and puts in an appearance as a stereotypical Chinese waiter. Ayers has the audience eating out of his hand from the get-go. Most were movie fans, preloaded with visions of sugarplums, flag poles and leg lamps dancing in their heads. But the material’s funny even if you’ve never seen the original.

Judah Woomert has a strong stage presence as Ralphie — acting in character, not just hamming it up. He has a clear, distinct voice and you can actually understand what he is saying — always a plus in a child actor. Ryan Modjeski is funny as his food-hating younger brother, Andy. Props

also to Kunkel’s long-suffering, lamppostlicking, scapegoated Flick. Jeffery Kin hits it out of the park with his take on “The Old Man.” Great physical comedy; great take on a long-suffering, old-school dad with a heart of gold who’s wound a little too tight.

Alyssa Goudy’s sprightly spin on Ralphie’s mom reminds me of the matriarch on “That ’70s Show.” Kay Siebold is hilarious as Ralphie’s tight-laced teacher, Miss Shields — especially in a fantasy sequence where she appears in a spangled cocktail dress and belts out a torch song. With his perfect radio voice, Allen Kretschmar is ideal as the adult Ralphie, narrating his dreams of childhood.

There’s an unflinching truth to those dreams. The story has a cynical edge.

Surprisingly, that makes it all the more

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It was a concert of ups and downs that was presented this past weekend by the Sarasota Orchestra led by guest conductor Evans Haile. The real upside of the performances was the orchestra itself, which proved it can play well under almost any circumstance. The down side was Haile who stumbled almost as often as he stood up to the challenges of the all-American program.

Brash, bright, in your face, sensitive, embracing, vulgar, honest, upright and decadent, American music is, by nature, like America, itself. As a people we are full of contradictions, and that’s what composers Ron Nelson and Joan Tower emphasized in their works, which opened the program.

Nelson’s popular “Savannah River Holiday Overture” is sprightly, optimistic and dazzling, filled with lots of brass and percussion, and would work well as the soundtrack for a Superman movie or a 1960s big-city television detective program. Tower’s poly-rhythmic, multi-metered “Sequoia” is a big-tone poem that paints the concentric circles of the rings on the trunk of the giant redwoods with a tonal palette that expands to include 20th century musical languages.

The orchestra played both really well, even though Haile, a left-handed conductor who wields not a baton but a pencil, beat time more than he painted colors with the forces he had at hand. There was little attention paid to dynamics or subtleties beyond those the composers had printed into the scores. Still, Haile did a good

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: REVIEWS Tamara Tunie

job holding everything together, and the Sarasota Orchestra was able to do some really outstanding work without much help from the podium.

Aaron Copland’s affecting “Lincoln Portrait” fared better with Haile holding the ensemble in check while the glamorous and beautifully spoken actress, Tamara Tunie, read the patriotic and poignant words of the 16th president of the United States. Even with the extraordinary and imposing memory of the voices of Marian Anderson, Gregory Peck, Henry Fonda, James Earl Jones and Carl Sandburg echoing in my ears, Tunie gave a reading of these texts that was moving, passionate and dignified, lending just the right weight and emphasis to, “That is what he said.

That is what Abraham Lincoln said.” Those words, underscored by Copland’s music and the orchestra’s playing, were inspiring, stirring and memorable.

The Copland was cleverly juxtaposed with Samuel Barber’s poignant and tender “Adagio for Strings.” Written originally as a movement in a string quartet, this piece — often played at funerals — has been arranged (mostly by the composer) for various combinations, from string orchestra

to chorus. For this performance with the lustrous strings of the Sarasota Orchestra, Haile laid down his pencil and conducted beautifully, using both hands to elicit sweeping phrases and warm sounds from the ensemble.

Unfortunately, for the finale of the concert, Gershwin’s beloved “Rhapsody in Blue,” the conductor chose to be soloist as well as conductor, and failed in both roles. Leaving aside the multiple wrong notes he played, it was one of the weirdest performances of this well-known work I’ve ever heard. The Steinway was almost inaudible at times, sounding muffled and underpowered. The pianist’s phrasing was inconsistent and fitful, especially toward the finale when he set one tempo for the orchestra and another for himself. Who would do that? And why?

One other thing must be mentioned. I’m all for conductors speaking to their audiences, but they need to temper their talks with a sense of who and what that audience is. Haile, who addressed us as if we were at a young people’s concert, was longwinded, condescending and embarrassing. Please.

Unless you’re a Leonard Bernstein, let the music speak for itself.

— June LeBell

19 - 20 December 2014

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

Sir Frederick Ashton’s

‘ La Fille mal Gardee The Wayward Daughter

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Box Office : (941) 359 - 0099 x 101 | www.SarasotaBallet.org

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DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

// HOME&GARDEN : HOME OF THE MONTH

by Robert Plunket | Contributing Writer (continued from page 1)

the deep blue goodbye John D. MacDonald’s Siesta Key home was the birthplace of the Florida crime novel.

The MacDonald house, center, is one of a dozen homes that line the narrow sandbar called Point Crisp.

McGee was born.

Travis McGee, the knight in slightly tarnished armor, the rescuer of damsels in distress.

Six-foot-four, powerfully built, deeply tanned, usually needing a shave. He and his creator pioneered a new kind of novel, one that changed American literature. The hard-boiled Florida crime novel soon came to dominate the bestseller lists and, not so incidentally, gave impetus to the burgeoning environmental movement. It was a cry to action against the corrupt forces

that would destroy the delicate ecological balance for their own profit.

One look from the windows of MacDonalds’ second-floor study and workroom and it’s easy to see from where this passion came. The setting is spectacular. The room is modest in size but has full water views to both the north and the south.

Birds swoop by, lizards dart here and there — even a few full-size iguanas — and tropical vegetation sways gently in the breeze. The only thing missing

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is the clacking of the typewriter as Travis begins another adventure. *** That John and Dorothy MacDonald could afford such a house is a reflection of both Sarasota real estate prices back in the 1950s and MacDonald’s growing success as a writer. A prolific worker, he was a rising star in the genre of tough-guy fiction, with scores of successful novels under his belt. He wrote as many as four a year. The couple had already assumed a rou-

tine they would follow decades to come. The house on Siesta Key in the winter, then a trek north to the Adirondacks for a summer at the lake.

MacDonald’s book “The House Guests,” published in 1967, gives an evocative look at life on the Key back in those long ago days. Air conditioning hadn’t taken over; windows were left open and their beloved cats — the houseguests of the title — wandered in and out at will. Neighbors were always dropping by, often with injured

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

11

// HOME&GARDEN To the writing room ...

The home’s original living room also served as Dorothy MacDonald’s painting studio.

A later owner added the caged pool that separates the main house from the guest house. wildlife, for they knew the MacDonalds were a soft touch for any wounded creature. Everybody in town knew everybody else and the social life was informal but active, especially for members of the town’s art colony, the writers and painters who originally gave Sarasota the cachet it still enjoys today.

The MacDonald home was also pretty typical of the way people lived back in those days. It was located on Point Crisp, a sandbar that inexplicably juts out into the bay about a mile or so south of the Stickney Point Bridge. Local lore says the home’s original owner, the man who developed Point Crisp residentially, won it in a poker game. It’s tempting to surmise that this inspired Travis McGee’s acquisition of his famous houseboat, the Busted Flush. It also was won in a poker game.

As they became more prosperous the MacDonalds enlarged

The entrance to the home is across Point Crisp Road from the property’s dock.

the home, which stood on about an acre. They added a guesthouse and extended the living room. Dorothy, an accomplished amateur painter, used the former living area as her studio. But John always claimed the upstairs room — reached by a spiral staircase — as his own sanctuary.

The MacDonalds sold the house in 1970 and moved to a larger home that looked out over Big Pass, designed for them by their good friend, architect Tim Siebert. Over the years, the Point Crisp house went on to have a succession of notable owners.

One of them, Richard Peterson, became famous for an adventure that seems right out a MacDonald book. A TWA pilot, he was flying a 727 from Rome to Athens, Greece, in April 1986, when a terrorist bomb went off. Four passengers were killed and a large hole was blown in the side of the plane, but Capt. Peterson kept his head and landed the plane

safely in Athens. He became the Sully Sullenberger of his day.

Later, Dr. Masood Rehmani, a prominent child psychiatrist who spent 30 years working in Sarasota, treating private patients and developing programs with local hospitals and school boards, bought the Point Crisp home. The doctor’s brother, Qamar, recalls how the home’s gentle tropical atmosphere and many fruit trees — mango and lychee — reminded his brother of his native India. Full circle, in a way — MacDonald’s first published story was entitled “Interlude in India” and dealt with his experiences in New Delhi during World War II. *** Rehmani died recently and the Point Crisp home has come on the market. Even MacDonald would be realistic enough to accept the fact that, for all its history and charm, whoever buys the place will probably tear it down

and replace it with a $10 million mansion — it’s the last beach shack left on Point Crisp, an anomaly next door to its glamorous, almost overpowering neighbors. The price tag certainly reflects the unique location — an eye-popping $3.2 million.

But if his birthplace is disappearing, Travis McGee is getting a second wind. The series is finding a whole new generation of readers thanks to e-books, and 20th Century Fox is planning a film version of “The Deep Blue Good-Bye.” Variety reports that Christian Bale is the leading contender for the role of Travis.

Not bad for a character dreamt up in a room over a garage on Siesta Key more than 50 years ago.

1430 Point Crisp Road is priced at $3.2 million. For more information, call Deborah Beacham (376-2688) or Larry Zeigler (2282612), both of Michael Saunders & Co.

View north

View south

Photos by Heather Merriman

Two engaging experience .

One pectacular man ion.

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Victorian Christmas at the Crosley

December 9 through 21 Select dates

Feel the spirit of the holidays with a festive, family evening of theater, carols and tales to warm the heart. All amid the historic grandeur of the majestic Powel Crosley Estate.

Murder at the Crosley January 27 through February 6 Select dates

Feel the chill as you immerse yourself into an evening of Who Done It. You’ll follow colorful characters from room to room as you pick up the clues and unravel the mystery.

Jan. 27-29 – 7:30pm Jan. 30 - Feb. 1 – 2:00pm, 7:30pm Feb. 4-5 – 7:30pm Feb. 6 – 2:00pm, 7:30 pm

Dec. 9-11 – 7:30pm Dec. 14 – 2:00pm, 7:30pm Dec. 16-18 – 7:30pm Dec. 19-21 – 2:00pm, 7:30pm

TicketMaster.com and at Bradenton Area Convention Center Box Office 941-722-3244, ext. 0 • PowelCrosleyTheater.com

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12

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

// FOOD&COOKING: HIGHLIGHTS

JAMES BEARD CELEBRITY CHEF TOUR DINNER

THE MENU

Wednesday, Dec. 3, at Darwin’s on 4th

Carrot variations, with ricotta and smoked trout roe Columbia Crest Un-oaked Chardonnay, 2013

Chef Paul Anders

Sweet Basil and Mountain Standard, Vail, Colo.

Photos by Heather Merriman

Celebrity Chefs James Baselici, Steve Phelps, Leigh Growney, Darwin Santa Maria and Paul Anders

Chef Stephen Phelps Indigenous, Sarasota

Open Blue Sea Farms cobia with Thai green curry, frittata, quinoa sesame cracker Elk Cove Vineyards Estate Riesling, 2012

Chef Steve Phelps of Indigenous prepared the second course

Chef Darwin Santa Maria

Darwin’s on 4th and Darwin Brewing Co., Sarasota

Braised short ribs with potato puree laced with aji amarillo Barnett Vineyards Spring Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, 2011

Chef Jim Baselici Louies Modern, Sarasota

Heather Dunhill, Barbara Strainbrook, Crystal Lahners and Amy Sussman

Matt Cornelius with Denise and John Saputo

Chef Paul Anders

Hudson Valley duck breast “à la blood orange,” curry pistachio purée, five-spice duck sausage and blood orange mustard seed caviar Davis Bynum Jane’s Vineyard Pinot Noir, 2012

Chef Leigh Growney The Short Giraffe, Sarasota

Lellys Santa Maria, Eileen Scudder, Jeff Black and Lily Johnson

Kim Fierst and Eileen Scudder

Layered flourless chocolate torte wedge with house cinnamon graham crust, topped with house triple chocolate bourbon ganache spiced marshmallow meringue lightly toasted accented with salted milk caramel sauce Stanley Lambert Choc-a-Bloc

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Join us in the kitchen with Chef Ray of Euphemia Haye as he prepares one of his favorite dishes.

Get the recipe and watch the cooking demo at

YourObserver.com/InTheKitchen sed Red Cabbage with Brai Sauerbraten mplings u D o and Potat

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INSIDE: Suncoast Celebration for Equality Florida PAGE 22

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Christen Benson, Rogan Donelly and Whitney Spencer

Mickey, a basset hound mix available for adoption at the event

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

Sandra Russi-Metz, Michael Metz and Graham and Jill Edwards

Jordan and Stephanie Hallum

22ND ANNUAL

hot dogs and COOL CATS ‘LAUGH YOUR PAWS OFF’ GALA

Benefiting The Humane Society of Sarasota County • Saturday, Dec. 6, at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota • Chairs: Molly Crawford and Alli Werner

by Heather Merriman | Black Tie Editor

Tutu, a schnauzer mix available for adoption at the event

Phil and Kim Mancini

The Humane Society of Sarasota County hosted its 22nd annual Hot Dogs and Cool Cats “Laugh Your Paws Off” Gala Saturday, Dec. 6, at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. Furry friends on the red carpet welcomed guests, who then socialized during the cocktail hour, which featured shot tails (a homemade apple brandy, provided by Co-Chair Alli Werner). Following dinner in the ballroom, guests enjoyed a silent auction and paddle raise hosted by Les McCurdy and Ken Sons and the evening entertainment continued with standup comedy from Sinbad.

Eric and Lois Zorn

Rebecca Kochelek holding Dasher, a great Pyrenees mix and Vickie Grosvenor holding Teddy, a hound mix available for adoption at the event.

BY THE NUMBERS: 300 guests 15 event volunteers 9 committee members $75,000 raised during the

“Raise Your Paw” paddle raise Event raised more than John Dunham and Sandi O’Connell

$225,000 2 puppies auctioned at the event for $1,200 each More than 1,600 abandoned

pets sheltered, cared for and place in homes this year

30,000 pounds of pet food to

350 residents in need of assistance

Photos by Heather Merriman

14,000 volunteer hours logged this year BLACK TIE COVER PHOTOS CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

14

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

// BLACK TIE: COLUMN

BLACKTIE&TALES

BABY ON BOARD

by Black Tie Staff

J

Photos by Heather Merriman

Nikki Taylor, Meghan Serrano and Jennifer Compton

ennifer Compton and Nikki Taylor hosted a French-inspired baby shower for Meghan Serrano’s baby-girl-to-be Saturday, Dec. 6, at Lolita Tartine. The shower featured a pink Champagne toast and a traditional French marzipan and buttercream cake with fresh berries — with well wishes for the baby written in French on the top of the cake. The room décor was French chic and the takeaway girly gifts were from Lollicake Queen. Spotted at the shower: Adria Jensen, Marjorie Broughton, Jane Thompson, Molly Kasperson and Kathryn Carr.

Cliff Roles

EVERYTHING IS BEAUTIFUL AT THE BALLET

B

alletomanes may be the most enthusiastic of arts lovers. It certainly appeared so at Balanchine-Tuckett-Bruce presented by the Sarasota Ballet Nov. 21 and Nov. 22. The performances featured live music by the Sarasota Ballet Orchestra and, for Tuckett’s Lux Aeterna, the Key Chorale. Joseph Caulkins conducted both. The ballet presented Lux Aeterna in January of this year, but this was its first appearance here with live music ­— and so emotional an experience that Managing Director Mary Anne Servian and board President Hillary Steele were encouraging their friends to bring plenty of tissues.

The Bruce piece was the Sara-

Kelly K. Stevens, PA-C, MPAS

sota premiere of “Sergeant Early’s Dream.” At the post performance reception on opening night, director Iain Webb described asking Christopher Bruce if his relationship with the Houston Ballet was an exclusive one, to which Mr. Bruce replied, “I’m not exclusive with anyone,” leading to collaboration between the Sarasota and Houston companies.

Ballet Master and Repetiteur James Jordan, who joined Sarasota Ballet from Kansas City earlier this year, was at the reception, enthusing about the “great camaraderie among the artists of the Sarasota Ballet and the healthful competition.”

“Iain can really pick ‘em,” he said.

S TIDBIT

Bet you can’t top this … Sarasota is appropriately agog over the Asolo Rep’s exciting new production of “South Pacific,” nobody more so than philanthropist Edie Winston, who owns up to having been taken by her father to the premiere of the original Broadway production in 1949. No arithmetic, please. Winston is a remarkable woman; when somebody cited the 43 patents she holds, she gently corrected them: “It’s 44 now.” This is the same Edie who recently donated $50,000 to the Artists Series Concerts of Sarasota for the Herb and Edith Winston Endowment Fund … The Bar Mitzvah Boys, Take Two … Michael Klauber and Phil Mancini received personalized aprons at the recent AJC dinner and shooter Cliff Roles photographed them. Roles left immediately after but had to

Infiniti Aesthetics

is not only perfect in itself, but the story behind how Kabinoff acquired it is, too — the purse was Janet Kane’s, and after she died, the family gave it to Kabinoff, as an appreciation for their friendship and mutual love for dogs, especially those with flat faces.

BLACK TIE R AFFAI

LA FILLE MAL GARDÉE HOLIDAY DINNER

Benefiting: Sarasota Ballet Outreach Program When: 5:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19 Where: Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Tickets: $125 Contact: 225-6510

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The entire community is invited to join in this FREE, festive, family-friendly celebration.

A reception of beverages and light snacks will be offered immediately following.

(Infiniti’s Regular Price: $3,100 ~ Local rates up to $4,000)

Take your youth to Infiniti

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return to collect some gear. Good thing, too, because by then, the AJC honorees had figured out they were mis-robed and put on their correct aprons … Looking better than ever … Two Sarasota businesswomen have walked the runway in Designing Woman Boutique’s Annual Gala and Fashion Show since its inception in 2005: Dr. Anne Chauvet, the veterinary neurosurgeon who owns Rosemary Vet, and Sandra Day, the aesthetician who owns NeoDerm skincare. Hard work seems to agree with them; they were looking better than ever at the event’s 10th anniversary on Dec. 7 … Pug love … Deb Knowles Kabinoff was spotted donning what could be the cutest Judith Leiber bag created at the Dec. 6 Hot Dogs and Cool Cats “Laugh Your Paws Off” Gala. The pug-shaped purse

955.4263 • www.redeemersarasota.org

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At the opening night post-performance reception: Michael Zuckerberg, board member Judy Cahn, Jan Fidelman and Managing Director Mary Ann Servian

DIVERSIONS

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

// BLACK TIE

(continued from page 13)

Dorothy and Susan Lawrence

15

Luxury Living in Downtown Sarasota

Greg and Tatiana Twarowski Richard and Michelle Perrone

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LAC I P T A IN GRE MART 0 1 IP A S O T

Guests enjoyed signature “shot tails,” a homemade apple brandy

Photos by Heather Merriman

Diana, a pit mix available for adoption at the 22nd annual Hot Dogs and Cool Cats ‘Laugh Your Paws Off’ Gala.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY

WOMEN’S DAY — AN AFTERNOON WITH CAMRYN MANHEIM

Silhouette® Window Shades Janet and Curt Mattson Owners

SAVE $100 or MorE WITH rEBATES on SElEcT producTS

Benefiting The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee Tuesday, Dec. 2, at Michael’s On East

September 16 - December 16, 2014

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Show us your receipt from holiday shopping and save.

Here’s the holiday break you need: During the month of December, bring in any receipt from your holiday shopping and get $10 off any dining purchase of $25, or $20 off any $50 purchase.

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Photos by Heather Merriman

Suzanne Reiman and Nancy Trotta

Co-Chairs Melissa Howard and Lee Sax

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Helen Glaser and Allison Silver Schwartz

Susi Benson-Steenbarger and Bunny Skirboll

Guest speaker Camryn Manheim

DIVERSIONS

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

17

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY

SARASOTA BALLET PRIVATE RECEPTION

&

Benefiting Sarasota Ballet Tuesday, Dec. 3, at private home

on Main

PRESENT:

Photos by Heather Merriman

Sara Sardelli, Iain Webb and Nancy and Bob Plummer

Frank Lyman Days Wednesday, December 17 12:00pm - 8:00pm Reception with wine & hors d’oeuvres 5:00 - 8:00pm

Hosts Katie and Jesse Biter

Thursday, December 18 12:00pm - 5:00pm

Bill and Ellen Cornelius

Ricardo Rhodes, Ellen Overstreet, Logan Learned and Victoria Hulland

Door prizes, gift certificates, and drawings both days with one lucky guest winning a

$300 shopping spree!

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18

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY

CAUSE 4 FASHION

BY THE BAY Benefiting Neuro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson’s Thursday, Dec. 4, at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

Photos by Heather Merriman

Sandy Cowing and Lee Dougherty Ross

Wendy Hopkins with Jeffery and Jocelyn Stevens

Jennifer Grondahl and Debbie Dannheisser CoChairs Gana Gilkey, Sharyn Weiner and Doreen Sutherland

Pat Pantello, Janet Walter and Brian Lipton

Ingrid Kozak, Alex Rydel, Redenta Picazio and Lynne Fales

DISCOVER WHAT’S ON GREET THE LIGHT cELEbRaTIon DEC 20, 7:00 PM

GREET THE LIGHT

$15 / $10 for Members Escape the pressures of the holidays for an evening.

Celebrate the winter solstice in the Courtyard with fire dancers, specialty drinks, and DJ.

HoLIDaY nIGHTS aT CA’ D’ZAN DEC 11, 5:00 – 8:00 PM, included with Admission Explore Ca’ d’Zan during extended evening hours.

Dressed for the holidays, Ca’ d’Zan features festive decor and holiday trees.

SUMMER INTENSIVE

0

1

JUNE 29 - AUGUST 1

5

Man’s best friend has appeared in art since ancient times. This lecture will look at the dog as an artistic and cultural symbol over the past 500 years.

The Sarasota Ballet School Summer Intensive provides a unique opportunity to be considered for both the Margaret Barbieri Conservatory of Dance and the internationally recognized Sarasota Ballet.

FaMILY WoRKSHoP: In THE SWInG oF THInGS DEC 13, 1:00 & 3:00 PM, $5 per Child Explore the physics of pendulums by looking at flying trapeze artists, followed by activities and painting in this program for children 4–10.

Start planning your future this holiday season and book your audition slot.

Sarasota Audition Date March 1, 2015 | The Sarasota Ballet

Tickets and Information:

Improve Your Craft. Build Relationships.

Closed on Christmas and New Year’s Day

|

education@SarasotaBallet.org

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Mold Your Future

941-359-0099 x 120

ringling.org or 941.358.3180 157022

2

vIEWPoInT: bEST In SHoW DEC 13, 10:30 AM, $10 / $5 for Members

S TAT E A R T M U S E U M O F F L O R I D A

| F L O R I D A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

OPEN DAILY at 10:00 AM

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

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// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY

MEN, WHISKEY AND WATCHES Benefiting Child Protection Center Thursday, Dec. 4, at Edson Keith Phillippi Mansion Photos by Heather Merriman

Bobby Bonilla, Chad Williams, Jason Lozeau and T.J. Nutter

Co-Chairs Amanda Lopez and Courtney Edbrooke

Mike and Tina Granthon

Sally Schule and Michele Schlossberg

TM

Katie and Michael Moulton

Wayne Rollins and Richard Lawrence

masterworks c o n c e r t: “ i n l o v e ” Make Date Night Musical This program features three of music’s most celebrated love stories. Strauss’ Death and Transfiguration narrates the final hours of a man as he reminisces about his memories, ideals, and loves. Tchaikovsky’s arresting Romeo and Juliet Overture needs no introduction. Ravel’s Daphnis et Chloé shimmers with delicate sensuality. You’ll have the rare treat of hearing the flugelhorn performed by a soloist renowned around the world for his mastery.

January 9 - Neel January 10 & 11 - Van Wezel Anu Tali, Music Director | Sergei Nakariakov, flugelhorn

Tickets from $30 941-953-3434 www.SarasotaOrchestra.org Sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts.

20 14 _ 15 157621

Dennis and Graci McGillicuddy

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY

HAUTE FOR THE HOLIDAYS Benefiting Habitat for Humanity Friday, Dec. 5, at The Francis Photos by Heather Meriman

Co-Chairs Michelle Crabtree and Victoria DeRosier

Debbie McLean, Susan McGill and Sylvia Smith

Dolores Berrien and Cheryl Neal

OF SARASOTA SARASOTA

Kristin Elwell and Lindse Miller

Kat and Carolyn Kofler

Debbie Reese and Hilaire Yoder

3 NEW EXHIBITIONS DEcEmBEr 11, 2014 – JaNuary 16, 2015

Live musical performances that Entertain, Engage, and Inspire!

Saturday – December 20 – 7:30 p.m.

Sunday – December 21 – 2:00 & 7:30 p.m.

Ho l i d ay In the Historic Asolo Theater at The Ringling Museum of Art

OF SARASOTA

A B ro a d wa y

Joseph Melancon

Dustin Juengel

Elaine Charney

Color gradient

Florida SuncoaSt Watercolor Society Open, TransparenT exhibiT

art center inStructorS

featuring Will & Anthony Nunziata and Gloria Musicae Singers with soloist Amy Connours TICKETS BY PHONE – DAILY 10A-4P – $25-$45

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

21

y entar s with this ad m i l p Com ce Lesson Dan

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY

Give the Gift of Dance

27TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF TREES, LIGHTS AND HOLIDAY GIFTS

• Gift Certificates Available • Private Lessons • Group Lessons • Parties

Benefiting The Florida Center for Early Childhood Friday, Dec. 5, at Michael’s On East

157905

this Holiday Season

Join us on December 18th 6:30-9:30pm

Sheryl Vieira, Rebecca Blitz and Renee Phinney

Dynasty Dance Clubs Annual Holiday Party for dancing, refreshments, holiday cookie contest, and a fabulous holiday themed show.

dynastydanceclubs.com 941-955-8558 2272 Main Street, Sarasota 34237 (Off Lime Avenue)

Happy Hour Monday-Friday 4pm-6pm Happy Hour Specials on Food and Drinks!

Honorary Chairs Thomas and Barbara Brown

Veronica and Jay Brady

Our New Dock is Finished!

A Complimentary Bottle of Wine!

from the Manager’s exclusive selection of Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. With this ad & the purchase of two lunch or dinner entrees. (not valid with other coupons or discounts)

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WINTERFEST HOLMES BEACH CITY HALL FIELD

December 13th & 14th, 2014 Saturday & Sunday 10:00 am - 4:30 pm David Jarrara and Barbie Nilsen

JURIED ART EXHIBIT

Dr. Eddy and Angela Regnier

“Young at Art” Children’s Exhibit & Activity Area LIVE MUSIC Saturday: Anna Maria String Band, Gumbo Boogie Band, Drum Bunny Band - Howie Banfield & Scott Blum

FOOD & T-SHIRTS. Image courtesy of Kathy Sparks

FREE ADMISSION & PARKING Visit:

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941-778-2099 Edward E. & Lillian H. Bishop Foundation

Kim Wheeler, Susan Brennan, Larry Face and Bev Fisher

Photos by Heather Merriman

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Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:

22

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

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SUNCOAST CELEBRATION FOR EQUALITY FLORIDA Benefiting Equality Florida Saturday, Nov. 22, on the Palm Avenue Parking Garage rooftop

156560

Amanda Kayatt, Lorie DeLaHunt, Taylor Scheuer and Niki Baldun

& Roberto Are pleased to invite you to join us for

Eduardo Anaya, Mark Steinwachs, Jarred Wilson, Zara Barrie, Richie and Lynn Barrie and KT Curran

New Year’s Eve!

Special 4 course menu and a glass of Prosecco.....$120/per person Photos by Heather Merriman

First Sitting 5:30 - 8pm Second Sitting 8:30 - Close

Lee Brockman, Loren Farley and Jan Chester

See website for complete menu. Reservations Required.

Co-Chairs Kimberly Bleach and Randell Johnson

Bob Trisolini and Bob Nosal

158022

156522

1213 N. Palm Ave. Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-366-1840 www.casanticarestaurant.com | casantica2@gmail.com

157966

Monday – Thursday 5pm -10pm | Friday – Saturday 5pm 11pm | Sunday Closed

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

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// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY

COCKTAILS FOR A CAUSE

WHITE HAUTE RUNWAY SHOW

Benefiting Designing Daughters Tuesday, Nov. 25, at Libby’s Café and Bar

Benefiting Designing Daughters Thursday, Dec. 4, at Sarasota City Center courtyard

Daniel Volz, Brad Nocek, Brenton Cloud and Jacqueline Abney

Photos by Heather Merriman

Keith and Annamae Nasewicz with Caleb Jones and Liz Murray

Co-Chairs Hayley Wieglus and Amanda Picken

Photos by Heather Merriman

Lacey and Betsy Anderson with Barbara Catlin

Brigid Saah, Chelsea Stickley and Denise West

Jane Thompson, Montana Taplinger and Nikki Taylor

Co-Chairs Ashley Guttridge and Lauren Graham

Karlenn Peluso and Julianna Racines

ONLINE // Watch a video of ‘Cocktails for a Cause’ at YourObserver.com.

Worth Graham and Erin Evanson

Diana Buchanan, Kelsey Alholm and Ashley Gruters

LEARN TO PLAY

POLO Who: Where: Cost:

Men, Women and Kids NO RIDING SKILL NECESSARY Sarasota Polo Club 10 week Course: 1 x week / $1050 2 x week / $2100 Private lessons $110

PERFECT GIFT IDEA

Not many people in the country even have the opportunity to take polo lessons! Sarasota Polo School offers turnkey lessons providing horses, tack, mallet and top instruction by USPA certified instructor Megan Flynn.

25% OFF HOLIDAY SPECIAL!

All courses purchased before 12/31/14!*

All you need to bring is your desire to learn! *Offer subject to change without notice. Must purchase course in full prior to 12/31/14.

Call Megan Flynn 941.720.2912 or email her at megan@sarasotapolo.com to enroll or find out more information. sarasotapolo.com 157489

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

// BLACK TIE: AIN’T NO PARTY LIKE A CLOSET PARTY

HOTFLASH O

nly in Sarasota would you be attending a party on a Monday morning … for a closet. Close to 65 guests stopped by the Gunther estate on Casey Key Monday, Dec. 8, for Brunch in Jayne’s Boudoir, a brunch party hosted by Linda Dickinson, Kelly Quigley and Saks Fifth Avenue honoring Jayne Gunther’s breathtaking boudoir. It was an appropriately stylish morning, in which guests toured the

by Heather Merriman | Black Tie Editor

home while enjoying brunch and Champagne. Models were staged wearing designer fashions from Saks Fifth Avenue and a harpist and violinist played classical music upstairs where guests could sample and purchase the latest Jo Malone fragrances.

JAYNE ON HER BOUDOIR:

The home is listed with Kelly Quigley and Linda Dickinson of Michaels Saunders & Co., priced at $14,985,000.

In a few words, describe what this space is to you…

Just … fabulous.

What did you have in mind when designing the space?

Accessibility and organization.

The London Telegraph featured the boudoir for its “sensational she-cave” and “walk-in closets fit for ‘Sex and the City’s’ Carrie.”

Jo Malone’s Pine and Eucalyptus is the most popular scent this season according to Jo Malone representative Patrick Hicks — the scent also happens to be Jayne Gunther’s favorite.

I like my money right where I can see it … hanging in my closet.

– Carrie Bradshaw

Guests enjoyed Champagne and other brunch beverages at Brunch in Jayne’s Boudoir.

Photos by Heather Merriman

THE DETAILS 1,200 square feet 25 drawers 4 floor-length hanging cabinets 8 cabinets for shoes 8 shirt cabinets 7 cabinets for hats Custom design by Campbell Cabinetry Designs Distressed maple paneled cabinetry

Hosts Kelly Quigley, Sally Schule and Linda Dickinson

Homeowner Bob Gunther and Robert Baron

Knotty cherry wood island countertop

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