Sarasota Observer 12.25.14

bserver SARASOTA

Merry Christmas!

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

SPARCC OF HOPE

DEAR SANTA

DIVERSIONS

Mary Ann Robinson donates funds for an animal kennel.

PAGE 10A

OUR TOWN

FREE • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

Elementary school students share their Christmas wish lists. PAGE 15A

Black Tie’s best of fashion and fun in 2014.

PAGE 13A

main draw

by David Conway and Alex Mahadevan | Observer Staff

Main Street bar clears first hurdle Plans for a Paddy Wagon in the 1500 block of Main Street, in addition to other nightlife proposals, have received an early seal of approval from downtown residents.

+ Couple celebrates 54th anniversary Carol and Jules Green met at a summer camp where Carol was a junior counselor and Jules was a waiter. He helped her move her suitcases into her bunk, and the two hit it off right away. Through three children and Carol’s recent heart surgery, the duo has remained a solid team.

The couple will celebrate their 54th wedding anniversary Dec. 27 with friends and family at an intimate brunch.

Carol advises young couples to keep the lines of communication open.

“The secret to our successful marriage is that we talk a lot and we usually come to some kind of agreement,” she says.

As a bar owner, Tom Elliott usually isn’t happy about failing to draw a crowd. But a Dec. 18 workshop proved to be an exception to that rule — and a sign that downtown residents approve of his proposal for a new bar on Main Street.

Elliott, an owner of the Paddy Wagon Irish Pub, is seeking permission from the city to use a

liquor license at 1576 Main St., in the space between Pho Cali and Drunken Poet Café. On Dec. 18, the city hosted a community workshop to gather resident input on the proposal; nobody showed up to oppose the project.

The Irish-themed business, which has another location on Clark Road, aims to open this summer, one of a handful of new

bars to open or announce plans to operate along Main Street.

“It’s a trophy property for us,” Elliott said. “It’s a chance to showcase to our customers and franchisees the vision we have for Paddy Wagon.”

The bar will be one of several nightlife options along the 1500 block of Main Street, which is owned by entre-

SANTA BABY

SEE NIGHTLIFE / PAGE 2A

Legacy Trail extension: $15 million The first draft of a feasibility study is scheduled to go before county commissioners in February.

The 7.5-mile extension for the Legacy Trail to run into downtown Sarasota could come with a $15 million price tag.

County staff is reviewing the first draft of the feasibility study, which Cardno Inc., an international civil design and environmental firm, completed in early December.

The study proposed two options for building the 7.5-mile extension along the former CSX railway corridor: a single, 14-foot-wide shared trail with sections for both bicyclists and pedestrians or separate trails for bicyclists and pedestrians. According to the study, ei-

+ Officers welcome holiday backup The Sarasota Police Department is on the lookout for an elf who goes by the name of Officer Elf on the Shelf. This North Pole helper keeps appearing around the Sarasota Police Department station and in patrol cars.

It’s been reported that the elf has been helping officers by reminding people about the #MoveOver campaign and with the Shop with a Cop event.

But officers suspect the elf is also acting as a scout and reporting back to Santa Claus with notes on who belongs on the naughty or nice list.

preneur Jesse Biter. Biter purchased the building for $2 million in 2012. A few doors down from the Paddy Wagon, Biter has plans for at least two more additions to the late-night landscape: Taco Bus, a Tampabased restaurant that will be open 24 hours, and Evie’s, which

SEE TRAIL / PAGE 2A

Amanda Morales

Laura Gooley and her son, Max, took home the title of “Most Adorable” in the costume contest for the Sandy Claws Beach Run Dec. 13, at Siesta Key Beach. Sarasota Parks and Recreation hosted the 38th annual event. See more photos online at YourObserver.com.

Jessica Salmond

The Legacy Trail extension will include a trailhead at Payne Park. The trail follows the former CSX railroad corridor.

INDEX Opinion.................8A Classifieds ........ 22A

Cops Corner..........9A Crossword.......... 21A

Permits.............. 19A Real Estate........ 18A

Sports................ 13A Weather............. 21A

Vol. 11, No. 5 | Two sections YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

Luxury Living in Downtown Sarasota FE

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rest areas, benches, bike racks and mile markers. The report also suggested some additional amenities to enhance user enjoyment and practicality of the trail, including trailheads every two miles, drinking water at some shelters, bike lockers at the heaviest commuter intersection and Wi-Fi at trailheads.

“We’re all looking forward to it,” said Bruce Dillon, vice president of the Friends of Legacy Trail. “It’s a great way to enhance the spirit of the community.”

YOUROBSERVER.COM // Read more about how the Legacy Trail could link up with other regional trails.

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ther option would be viable. The single-trail option would cost about $14.9 million to remove the railroad tracks and construct the trail; the other option, which would leave tracks intact, would cost $15.4 million.

CSX Transportation owns the railway corridor and leases it to Seminole Gulf Railway in Fort Myers. The cost to acquire the land has not been estimated, according to the report.

After county staff complete their review of the study, their questions and comments will be sent back to Cardno. The final draft is expected to be ready for county commissioners in February.

After more than a year of fundraising, the Friends of the Legacy Trail and the Gulf Coast Community Foundation met their $72,251 goal to help fund the trail’s extension feasibility study, estimated to cost $150,000.

“The funds are all in — all accounted for,” said Kelly Romanoff, strategic engagement officer for Gulf Coast Community Foundation.

One hundred and thirty-six individuals and organizations contributed, she said. Several fundraisers also helped offset the cost, including the Tour de Parks bicycling fundraiser, which brought in $16,000.

The current 10.8-mile Legacy Trail, constructed for $14.5 million, runs from South Sarasota to Venice. It opened in 2008. The additional section would extend the trail from Palmer Ranch Parkway downtown to Payne Park at School Avenue.

Trail amenities will include shelters at every mile, scenic

BENEVA R D.

will come with a three-lane bowling alley.

Those plans coincide with a broader influx of late-night businesses, particularly in the 1500 block of Main Street.

Earlier in the year, Yume Sushi moved into a larger space across the street, to 1532 Main St., a move that its owner said would include a greater emphasis on nighttime offerings.

In the former space Yume Sushi occupied, craft beer bar The Famous Tavern opened.

In the 1900 block of Main Street, another craft beer bar, World of Beer, has announced its plans to open Feb. 1 in the two-story space Eat Here previously occupied.

Last week, World of Beer coowner Dean Lambert said the city was in the process of issuing the final permits for the bar.

Biter said these businesses fit with his vision for Main Street — and that the Paddy Wagon is another valuable addition for the area.

“Downtown should be a fun and exciting place to visit that has something for everyone,” Biter said. “Paddy Wagon fills a few voids that currently exist on Main Street.”

Downtown residents have been painted as a potential obstacle for several new nightlife options in Sarasota, but last week’s meeting is an early signal that they may not be an issue for the Paddy Wagon.

Elliott, who already owns eight Paddy Wagon locations and more than 20 bar concepts in total, is no stranger to downtown. As the former

TRAIL / FROM 1A

owner of Smokin’ Joe’s, he said his new site on Main Street is far enough away from residential developments that problems based on their proximity shouldn’t be an issue. The location could even be a positive, he suggested, drawing late-night crowds away from the denser residential areas in the 1300 and 1400 blocks of Main Street.

Bob Pirollo, president of the Downtown Sarasota Condo Association, said the organization was excited to see the activity around Biter’s projects.

He said that, in the past, residents’ concerns have largely centered on noise issues — something they’ve seen less of downtown in recent months.

Additionally, he said, downtown residents aren’t a homogeneous entity; some members of the group are happy to have more nightlife options to patronize.

“We have on our board some younger members, and they’re actually anxious for more things to do,” Pirollo said.

Downtown Economic Development Coordinator Norm Gollub said the new bars and restaurants are a response to the more than 2,000 dwelling units and five hotels poised to spring up throughout the area beginning as early as next fall. Biter is behind plans for a 10-story, 168-unit apartment building on Second Street, which puts him in a unique position on either side of the downtown market.

“I think (Biter) is taking a holistic view.” Gollub said. “I think he’s creating the demand and the solution for that demand.”

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

STORIES OF THE SEASON

MEMORIES

3A

Compiled by Observer Staff

MISHAPS

For the holidays, the Observer collected Christmas stories — both heartwarming and head shaking — from readers. From burnt dinners and terrifying encounters with Santa to tales of the true meaning of Christmas, these stories are sure to add a little happiness and laughter to your holiday season.

WHAT A DOLL

GAUDY HOLIDAY

When I was 10 years old, in 1925, all I wanted for Christmas was a Bye Lo doll. It was a replica of a 3-dayold baby. At the time, my mother was supporting herself and me on $20 a week, and the doll was $10. I knew I would never get one. Once, I had asked my mother if we could go to the bakery and get a pecan roll, and she told me that we couldn’t afford one that week because it was 25 cents.

All I talked about was getting one of those beautiful dolls. I don’t know how my mother found the money, but, sure enough, I got her for Christmas. I named her Betty Ann and was very attached.

I kept her throughout my life and planned to give her to my daughter, if I had one, but I only had two sons. I kept Betty Ann in my guest bedroom. The neighbor’s little girl saw Betty Ann and got very at-

In my family, we exchange gifts on Christmas Eve after a traditional Puerto Rican dinner and tropical egg nog.

We would spend the evening playing board games and watching Christmas shows.

It is a great traditional Christmas Eve celebration.

Around 15 years ago, my husband gave me a gaudy glitter Christmas vest to wear when I visited my family. The reactions of my young nieces and nephews were priceless. They were aghast at my ugly Christmas outfit. This response only encouraged me to do it again the following year and thereafter try to outdo my ugly Christmas sweaters every year.

Over the years, I expanded my ugly Christmas outfits to in-

O, CHRISTMAS TREE My younger brother and sister and I were spending our first Christmas in Florida in 1948. We had never been in a place where it was warm at Christmas. We wanted a Christmas tree and my dad said no, because we were living in a little apartment. So John, Mary and I went downtown; we lived down (U.S.) 41 so we walked downtown. We drug a Christmas tree back with us — we were determined.

We didn’t even have any lights or anything.

— Nancy Shaughnessy

M A RT IN tached to her, so one year I gave the doll to the little girl for Christmas.

— Norma Martin

DINNER DEDICATION I’m a close-to-Christmas baby (Dec. 19), and my mom is a Christmas Eve baby, so it was quite a busy time around the Rouillard house the year I was born — coupled with the fact my dad was a minister, so he had various services to attend to. It was a standing tradition for our family to have prime rib and Yorkshire pudding for Christmas dinner.

My mom, a perfectionist at heart and

wonderful cook, has a special recipe to cook prime rib that has the oven heat start at 450 degrees, and then you roast the prime rib for about 30 minutes and then turn the heat off but keep the door closed for about two-plus hours.

She put the prime rib in the oven and then went to lay down for a short nap because she was really tired, having just given birth six days prior and having relatives in addition to my two older sisters at the house. She

clude silly headpieces or funny Christmas hats and even added Christmas socks to the ensemble.

A few years ago, my now 30-year-old nephew brought his fiancé to Christmas Eve dinner so she could see his crazy aunt’s Christmas outfit. And about five years ago my younger niece and nephew asked if I could dress them up, too. This began the tradition of including Christmas socks in their stockings, which they would use on Christmas Day. I don’t remember some of the gifts we exchanged for Christmas in the past, but I recall the laughs. It is my hope my nieces and nephews will continue the ugly Christmas outfit tradition after I’m gone and will tell their kids about how this family tradition started with crazy Aunt Lourdes.

— Lourdes Ramirez

fell asleep, along with everyone else, and was woken up by a strange burning smell. Lo and behold, the quick 30-minute nap turned into more like two hours and Christmas roast became Christmas shoe leather.

In her true style, she still pulled off a lovely dinner with the help of others, a poignant reminder that the holidays bring more value in being together than what you eat.

— Holly Johnson

FLIGHT OF FANCY THE CAT’S MEOW My cat Henry likes to sleep in the Christmas tree. One year I had a beautiful tree all decorated and Henry slept in the tree.

But he’s so fat that he bent all of the branches and shredded everything.

— Suzanne Lersch

I work as a flight attendant for United Airlines. When I first started out I was on reserve, meaning they could call me in to work at any time. They work 24 hours a day, and you’re on call. I never had holidays off unless I was lucky enough not to get called in.

About 14 to 15 years ago, I was going to be spending Christmas alone again. I was called in to work and sat waiting to get a call from scheduling to find out when and where I would be flying on Christmas Eve — or if I would be staying at the Newark airport through the night. The phone rang, and scheduling told me I’d be flying to Düsseldorf, Germany.

“OK, here I go,” I said.

There were eight other flight attendants and the cabin crew. The flight went well, no problems. We landed and all went to nap for a few hours, but then we got a call from our captain. He said we were not going to be spending our Christmas alone.

He took us out for a beautiful dinner — we ate chicken schnitzel — and then he told us we were going to the Christmas market. It was

SHEER FEAR called the “sternchen” market, which means “little star” in German.

There were lit up crystals, all different colors and thousands of lights. I can still remember the smell; it was wonderful. The vendors were cooking outdoors, making pastries. It was snowing a little, too.

To this day I can picture it in my head — the smells, the snow, the music. It was one of the most memorable for me because I thought I was going to be alone and miserable that Christmas, and it came out magical.

— Laura Martin

I was 3 years old and deathly afraid of Santa. On Christmas Eve, I woke up in the middle of the night and stumbled around the house looking for scissors. When I found the scissors I chopped off all of my beautiful long blond hair, bangs included, so Santa wouldn’t be able to recognize me.

I was so scared after I chopped off my hair that I grabbed my golden locks and the scissors and slept under my parents’ bed. In the morning when my mom woke up, she found me with a butchered haircut and freezing. It took years for those bangs to grow back, but I was able to give everyone a good laugh for years to come!

— Desiree Hanright

READ MORE MEMORIES AND MISHAPS ON PAGE 4A >>

SARASOTA OBSERVER

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<< MEMORIES AND MISHAPS FROM PAGE 3A

WRONG SONG One memorable yet horrifying Christmas mishap was an accidental performance on stage before a soldout concert hall. It was my brother’s Christmas recital with the Glen Ellyn Children’s Chorus.

For the finale, the announcer invited all of the children who were past participants of the program to come up on stage for the final song. My mother, however, misunderstood the announcement and thought the request was for all children to join on stage for the final song. She urged me to go up with all of the other children and sing.

I was a fearless 7-year-old and happily obliged. The instructor greeted each child with excitement, but as I passed by with a big smile I received a look of confusion from her.

The orchestra began to play, and I stood there expecting to hear a familiar holiday classic. No such luck. As I gazed out into the audience, it was clear those who were on stage with me were well rehearsed. It all happened so fast, but as they broke into their multipart harmony I had to do something. I had two options: Run off the stage making a scene or stand there lip synching before I knew what that even was. For what seemed like an eternity I mouthed “watermelon” repeatedly, hoping to appear as though I actually belonged up there.

At last, the song was finally over! As we exited the stage, the instructor hugged and

Z iegl er congratulated all of her former students. I received a raised eyebrow and a perplexed look (again) when I passed her.

I kept my composure as I returned to my seat, but once I saw the look of embarrassment on my mother and father’s faces, I broke out into tears. I know I was upset at the time, but as I reflect on this story now as a parent, I can only imagine how horrible my mother felt as she watched me try to make my way through that scenario.

Alas, all ended well, and this story continues to bring my family many laughs every Christmas!

— Bridget Ziegler

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SARASOTA OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

NIGHT OF LIGHTS

LOVE LETTER

I grew up in Chesterfield County, in the suburbs of Richmond, Va. Every year on Christmas Eve after church and spaghetti at my grandmother’s house, my family would pile into the car and drive into downtown Richmond to see the lights. This was the only time of the year we went downtown. It was magical to see the big, tall buildings trimmed in white lights and the river sparkling under the clear, dark sky.

— Lynn Hobeck-Bates

When my daughter was 4, I got the idea to write her a letter from Santa. In the letters, Santa would always praise her for her accomplishments, such as, “Christy, my elves tell me that you’ve stopped sucking your thumb. Good for you, girl!”

Every year, Santa would observe achievements and make subtle sugges-

MIDNIGHT SNACK

Here it is my favorite time of year - actually, my favorite time is when my daughter visits, but I dig ress ... so Ho, Ho, Ho and here we go. Where I live, people put so many ligh ts outside their houses, I do n’t know if they’re celebrating the bir th of Jesus or Florida Power & Light.

Everybody’s getting “Santam ental.”

The ending of the year rem inds us that nothing lasts for ever and we need to keep the import ant issues at the top of our pri ority list.

Happiness and sorrow are pa rt of our learning. I relish see ing how much joy and hope this year has brought for you and encoura ge your optimism for the year ahead.

As a newlywed in 1961 in Loveland, Ohio, our first Christmas was a very small one with a tree we cut down from a wooded area near our apartment. It was a “Charlie Brown” tree with most of the branches on the bottom. We had no real ornaments and were on a really small budget, so we baked cutout cookies making gingerbread men and angels.

I had a small puppy, about 4 months old. Imagine our surprise when we got up the next day to see just heads of gingerbread men and angels hanging there.

During the night Miss Puddles had eaten everything she could reach.

— Kay Weber

My elves tell me that once again you’ve been especially good. No surprise there. While Mrs. Claus is qu ick to remind me that good work is its own best reward, I’m hoping there’ ll be lots of presents for you under the Christmas tree. All the more to move to Florida! (If you do, there’ll be no more frozen noses and no fla nnel pajamas, either.) Increa singly, you come to appreciate that this life isn’t about things. It’s about fulfill love. There’s no greater gift than love of and from a child ment and mate. and your soul Christy, from your earliest mo me qualities so unique and specia nts as a child, I saw that you possessed l that distinguished you above was so right. all others. I Keep your heart filled with

joy and love —j ust keep be

With all my love, your jolly old

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A few years ago I had made a breakfast strata for Christmas morning. I put it on the stovetop and turned on the oven to preheat. We went about our morning opening presents, and about 35 minutes in we hear this huge explosion.

We all went running into the kitchen and what we found was a mess of glass, eggs, cheese and bacon. I had turned on the stove top rather than the oven and the pan exploded. But here is the interesting part — the reactions by my family members: My grandmother: “Is anyone hurt?”

My mom: “Is anything else broken?”

Me and my sister: “Secure the perimeter so no one steps on glass or food.”

My husband: “What are we going to eat now?”

— Nicole Rissler

know a lot more than people think and you’ve started instilling your Gabriella with the confidence and the loving goodness that fills your heart.”

This year, Christy turned 42. Her letter from Santa goes in the mail tomorrow.

Thirty-eight years of letters from Santa, and I’m beginning to think she suspects the letters are from me.

— Tony Nacinovich *See the letter from 2012 below, left.

Dear Christy,

157640

GLASS HALF-FULL

tions that only he could make. The letters arrived year after year on special Santa green stationery in a red envelope. A few years ago, he wrote, “The elves say that these days there’s a special twinkle in your eyes because you have some one (other than your parents) to share life’s experiences with.”

More recently Santa wrote, “And what a lovely mother you’ve become. Babies

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SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

phone tag

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

by Jessica Salmond | Staff Writer

Who ya gonna call? The Sarasota County Call Center Sarasota County’s information call center is only a phone call away at 861-5000. The office’s 11 information agents answer calls and emails from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, often answering the same questions multiple times a day.

#TRENDING Although the county communications department manages the county’s Twitter account, Martin Haire, a call center agent, keeps tabs on social media to see what’s happening in the county and get an idea of what calls it might receive.

“I love social media,” he said. “This is the way to find breaking news.”

Haire can sometimes identify daily or weekly trends in the calls based on activity on social media.

For example, when the Sheriff’s Office released the news about the unlicensed permitting operation, Haire accurately predicted the call center would be getting questions on the topic, and he made a page for the frequently asked questions database.

Accidents and bus delays are always a trend, he said.

The call center can also get a head’s up when the season is starting to end and the snowbirds migrate back up north — the calls start rolling in to disconnect utilities.

Vacation checklist: kayak, sunscreen, phone call to the Sarasota County Call Center. Before an upcoming kayak trip one year, a Sarasota County resident called to ask if the county could remove all of the alligators from its waterways so she would feel safe.

During water restrictions a few years ago, another woman called and asked if she could water her lawn. She figured she had banked some water by not bathing for five days.

The county has increased the promotion of its 861-5000 number, from tagging the number onto press releases to employees wearing T-shirts bearing the number at parades and events.

The repetition helps the public to remember the phone number, said Dan Wuethrich, the center’s operation manager.

It’s clearly working.

But as alternative methods of communication gain popularity, the Sarasota County Call Center is working to rebrand itself.

“We’re not just a switchboard,” Wuethrich said.

Wuethrich wants his office to become more of a contact center, through which people can use multiple methods to get the information they need. Emails are becoming an increasingly popular method of contact; the center receives about 150 a month on average.

The county is exploring starting

Jessica Salmond

Jane Idol has been a Sarasota County call center agent for four-anda-half years. Many customers are happy that a real person answers their calls, she said. an online chat on the website to assist visitors in real time. Residents and visitors can get a lot of information on the county’s website and sometimes they just need help navigating it, he said.

Wuethrich doesn’t want the center to be just a place where people who call in get transferred to other people.

Instead, each agent has a database of frequently asked questions he or she can search. It includes topics ranging from what time the public transportation stops on a certain street to how to get utilities turned on or off.

“We are the front door to Sarasota County,” Wuethrich said.

“We want people to have a positive experience — it could be the only experience they have.”

What it takes to be an agent

Agents have to have a great personality and not get tired of repeating the same answers over and over during the day.

“It means wanting to help people,” Wuethrich said.

Some customers are unhappy when they call, frustrated with a problem they are having. They need someone to say, “How can I

help you?” Wuethrich said. Even if the agent doesn’t know the answer, he or she will try to find out.

Residents and visitors even call about non-county-related issues and events. Jane Idol, a call center agent, has been getting phone calls about the Holiday Tour of Lights trolley. It doesn’t matter that it’s not a county event — she just looked up the information online and relayed it to the customer.

“Google is your friend,” she said.

Most of the agents have lived in the county for a while, and several have worked in other county departments, and that helps, Idol said. When a customer asks about an event or an issue, locals usually have an idea of what it is.

Not all the calls the agents receive are from Sarasota, though.

Some are from people who are considering moving to the area.

Others are wrong numbers — for example, the center gets a lot of calls from southern California, because there is an organization there called SCAT, too.

Wuethrich said the center generally receives positive feedback from callers and emailers, even those who may have started the conversation unhappy.

Each agent ends the phone call by asking if he or she can help with anything else. The most popular answer: the winning lottery ticket numbers.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

Teamwork

The call center is located on the fourth floor of the county administration building. Walking in during the holidays, guests are greeted with softly playing holiday music. Each section of cubicles is decorated with red and green, and the entryway even has two decorative palm trees adorned with Christmas lights.

Every person’s desk decorations are unique, from a stuffed animal collection to an old windowpane filled with photos.

Even the kitchen area has its own quirky flare with a set of vintage Coca-Cola chairs.

Despite being isolated with their headsets and dual computer screens when on calls, the agents are not alone.

“We’re like a family here,” Idol says.

“We help each other all day long.”

If a call gets dropped, the agent who took the call sends out a mass email to the office with information on the person or the topic of conversation, so if the person calls again, the customer doesn’t have to go back through the entire process.

“You wouldn’t be able to get through the day without help,” Idol said.

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BY THE NUMBERS

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ODDBALLS Whether some people are pranking the call center agents, it has received some strange calls over the years: • A woman asked if all the alligators in the county’s waterways could be removed before her kayaking trip, so she could feel safe in the water.

• During water restrictions a few years ago, a woman called and asked if she could water her lawn if she didn’t take a bath for five days.

• Someone called in asking what day it was. The call agent told him it was a Friday.

Each agent personalizes his or her desk — whether with Christmas decorations or plush animal collections.

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SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 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

Editor & CEO / Matt Walsh mwalsh@yourobserver.com Publisher / Lisa Walsh lwalsh@yourobserver.com Chief Digital Officer / Emily Walsh ewalsh@yourobserver.com Executive Editor / Kat Hughes khughes@yourobserver.com Deputy Executive Editor / Jessica Luck jluck@yourobserver.com News Editor / David Conway dconway@yourobserver.com Staff Writers / Amanda Morales, amorales@yourobserver.com Jessica Salmond, jsalmond@yourobserver.com Digital Editor / Alex Mahadevan alexm@yourobserver.com Managing Editor/Diversions-Season / Stephanie Hannum, stephanie@yourobserver.com Black Tie Editor / Heather Merriman hmerriman@yourobserver.com Arts & Entertainment Editor / Nick Reichert nreichert@yourobserver.com Managing Editor/Design / Nancy Schwartz nschwartz@yourobserver.com Design Editor / Nicole Thompson nthompson@yourobserver.com Editorial Designer / Qing Tian qtian@yourobserver.com Director of Sales & Marketing / Jill Raleigh jraleigh@yourobserver.com East County Advertising Manager / Lori Ruth lruth@yourobserver.com Sales Manager / Penny DiGregorio pdigregorio@yourobserver.com Digital Sales and Business Development Manager / Kathleen O’Hara, kohara@yourobserver.com Senior Advertising Executive / Laura Ritter lritter@yourobserver.com Advertising Executives / Robyn Didelot, rdidelot@yourobserver.com Austin Holmes, aholmes@yourobserver.com Beth Jacobson, bjacobson@yourobserver.com Robert Lewis, blewis@yourobserver.com Suzanne Munroe, smunroe@yourobserver.com Richeal Parisi, rparisi@yourobserver.com Toni Perren, tperren@yourobserver.com Sales Coordinator/Account Managers / Lori Downey, ldowney@yourobserver.com Susan Leedom, sleedom@yourobserver.com Rachel Livingston, rlivingston@yourobserver.com Classified Advertising Sales Executives/ Maureen Hird, mhird@yourobserver.com Deedie Parker, dparker@yourobserver.com Director of Creative Services and Information Technology / Kathy Payne, kpayne@yourobserver.com Creative Services Assistant Manager / Brooke Schultheis, bschultheis@yourobserver.com Advertising Graphic Designers / John Day, jday@yourobserver.com Monica DiMattei, mdimattei@yourobserver.com Jennifer Hogg, jhogg@palmcoastobserver.com Marjorie Holloway, mholloway@yourobserver.com Shawna Polana Luis Trujillo, ltrujillo@yourobserver.com Chief Financial Officer / Laura Keisacker lkeisacker@yourobserver.com Controller / Lisa Schwenk lschwenk@yourobserver.com Office Coordinator / Donna Condon dcondon@yourobserver.com

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The story behind his birth Children love to hear their grandparents and parents recount the details of whence their family came, the genealogy of who they are, how they came about and why they are. Indeed, our heritage depends on the continuous retelling of such important events.

This is why we take pleasure each year at this time recounting some of the lesser discussed details surrounding the birth of Jesus Christ. We all know what happened on “Christmas” — as St. Luke masterfully wrote in his Gospel (see box). But having some of the context that led up to this holy, remarkable day adds to its richness.

In truth, Jesus’ birth is a story for Jews and Christians alike. After all, Jesus’ parents, Mary and Joseph, were Jews.

And the setting for this momentous, monumental event was in the heart of the land that God promised to Abraham and Moses — Israel.

The main characters leading up to Jesus’ birth — Mary, Joseph, Mary’s cousin, Elizabeth, and her husband, Zacharias — were anything but celebrities in their day.

They were as common as Iowa farmers.

And yet, in reality, Mary and Joseph were indeed connected to royalty. Biblical scholars write they actually were cousins, both descendants from the lineage of King David, the longtime king of Israel.

But at that time — which was around 4 B.C. — the Jews of Judea (central Israel), were anything but a privileged, royal class.

They were living under the rule of Caesar Augustus and his vast Roman empire and under the unpredictability of the maniac, King Herod, an Arab-Jew who ruled over Jerusalem and Bethlehem as a “client” king for Caesar Augustus.

“Herod inflicted such outrages upon (the Jews) as not even a beast could have done if it possessed the power to rule over men,” wrote the biblical historian Josephus.

What’s more, Herod became infamous for murdering his wife, his wife’s father, her brother, three of his own sons and 300 of his military leaders.

Nonetheless, under Herod, the Jews managed to live with what biblical historian James Edward Talmadge called “some semblance of national autonomy.”

They could practice their religion without much interference.

But there was no doubt the Jews did not relish their domination. The Jews kept to themselves and held particular dislike for the Samaritans, a racially mixed people. “The enmity between Jew and Samaritan was so intense that travelers between Judea and Galilee would make long detours rather than pass through Samaria,” Talmadge wrote.

This is what Mary and Joseph would encounter after they received word of Caesar Augustus’ order for a census. He demanded that everyone register in his hometown. For Mary and Joseph, this meant traveling from Nazareth in Galilee in the north to Bethlehem in Judea — an 80-mile journey. That would have taken them right through Samaria. And let’s not forget: Mary was nine months pregnant.

In his gospel on the birth of Christ, St. Luke was sparing on the details of

WHEN WAS JESUS BORN? According to the Gregorian calendar, by which we measure years, there was no year “0,” which you would expect to be the year Christ was born.

Biblical historians have concluded Jesus must have been born in late 5 B.C. or 4 B.C. One of the ways they determined this was the fact King Herod the Great died in 2 B.C. Jesus obviously was born before this, because upon hearing of the Christ child’s birth, Herod ordered the death of all males under the age of 2.

… For unto you is born this day …

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.

(And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) to be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

— St. Luke, 2:1-16, King James Bible Mary and Joseph’s trip. The fact there are few details must mean it was mostly uneventful. But you could imagine it otherwise: Any woman in her ninth month of pregnancy is physically miserable — can’t sit for long stretches, can’t sleep. So imagine Mary and Joseph traveling in a caravan or with Mary riding on a donkey. It was cold at night.

The trip would have taken about four days. On Dec. 23, they had two days to go before reaching Bethlehem. And at this point in the trip, they would just be passing through Samaria. Jewish travelers were marks for bandits.

God was watching over Mary and Joseph, of course. They made it, but only to find out that Bethlehem, normally a sleepy little town, was bustling with Jews who had returned to register for the census. There was no room at the inn.

Mary and Joseph, we know, found a stable. But this wasn’t the stable we see on the Hallmark Christmas cards. The stables in those days often were dark, cold caves with “mangers” — animal-feeding troughs carved into the stone walls; they were not wooden cribs padded with dry, neatly arranged hay.

With nowhere else to go, Mary gave birth … under the stars, amid the manure and muck, among the sheep, cows and chickens, no doctors present to administer an epidural, with Joseph, her carpenter husband, assisting as best he could.

Those who have witnessed birth know its

difficulty in a hospital bed. Imagine the scene in a smelly, cold cave.

Yet, this lowly, humble setting was the way Jesus Christ, the Savior whom God sent for mankind, came into this world.

Contrast the differences: Caesar Augustus maneuvering for worldly power and the biggest worldwide celebrity of his day; Herod the Great, a regional celebrity, abusing his power over his small dominion in unspeakable ways. They were all about status and ego.

Mary and Joseph were the antithesis.

Humble, not materially wealthy, ordinary in all appearances. And yet they were extraordinary. God sent his messenger, the angel Gabriel, and stunned Mary that she would conceive miraculously and bring forth a son — the Son of the Highest who would “reign over the house of Jacob forever.” She would be his mother.

And Joseph, the quiet carpenter, he fretted over what would happen to Mary, his fiancée, if people found out she was pregnant before they were married. The angel Gabriel gave comfort to Joseph, just as he did to Mary.

And with humility and obedience and far below the radar screen of celebrity status, they carried out God’s will, remembering all the while Gabriel’s assurance to Mary: “For with God, nothing shall be impossible.”

This is our heritage. Merry Christmas.

(Editor’s note: This originally appeared in the Dec. 23, 2010, edition.)

— MW

THE PROCLAMATION OF THE BIRTH OF CHRIST The following is the Proclamation of the Birth of Christ declared each year in Rome: Today, the 25th day of December, unknown ages from the time when God created the heavens and the earth and then formed man and woman in his own image.

Several thousand years after the flood, when God made the rainbow shine forth as a sign of the covenant.

Twenty-one centuries from the time of Abraham and Sarah; 13 centuries after Moses led the people of Israel out of Egypt.

Eleven hundred years from the time of Ruth and the Judges; 1,000 years from

the anointing of David as king; in the 65th week according to the prophecy of Daniel.

In the 194 Olympiad; the 752nd year from the foundation of the city of Rome.

The 42nd year of the reign of Octavian Augustus; the whole world being at peace, Jesus Christ, eternal God and Son of the eternal Father, desiring to sanctify the world by his most merciful coming, being conceived by the Holy Spirit, and nine months having passed since his conception, was born in Bethlehem of Judea of the Virgin Mary.

Today is the nativity of our Lord Jesus Christ according to the flesh.

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

COPS DEC. 13 WALK IT OFF 12:18 p.m. — 500 block of Kumquat Court. Dispute/ Fight. A man reported that a homeless male threatened to kill him, and he wanted to file charges. Along with an officer, the man walked down the street where the male was last seen. During the walk, the man got into arguments with multiple individuals. When officers spoke to the male who al-

DEC. 12 INSIDE JOB 8:40 a.m. — 2241 block of Bee Ridge Road. Theft — $300 to $20,000. An employee at a laundromat arrived at work in the morning and discovered the rear door was unlocked, the alarm was not active and all of the cash had been removed from the register. The owner came to the scene and contacted the alarm

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

CORNER

SARASOTA

legedly made the threats, he said the man was taking pictures of him, which led to an argument. While officers were present, the man yelled at the male who allegedly made the threats, cursing at him and telling him to get off the sidewalk. Officers judged that the man was acting as the aggressor in his confrontation with homeless individuals. The man walked away and said he was going to speak with his attorney.

TOUGH BRAKE 8:56 p.m. — 2900 block of Leon Avenue. Suspicion General/Unknown. A woman informed officers that while she was driving another driver was following her car too closely.

As a result, the woman slammed on her brakes.

The woman said the other driver passed her car, yelling and waving something in one of her hands. A passenger in the woman’s car said the object looked like a gun.

+ Consider giving the gift of friendship this season

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friend? Donations to keep the program running are also welcome: It is cost-effective and may provide the extra TLC that prevents hospitalization or homelessness — well-worth your consideration. Please help spread the word!

Contact Compeer Sarasota at Coastal Behavioral Healthcare Inc. or check out our national website at compeer. org. Call 927-8900, Ext. 1126 for Sandi Kaiser for more information.

Bunny Skirboll and Kathy Maybee Compeer Sarasota

Dear Editor: While you are rushing around buying gifts for people on your list, why not think about giving the gift of friend+ ‘Government of laws’ ship? The holidays are not a great time Dear Editor: for everyone, and for people strugThe Sarasota Jaycees for many degling with depression or other mental cades developed some of this commuillnesses it could be the loneliest and nity’s leading citizens. Every meeting saddest time of the year. When we hear we recited our beliefs, which contained in the news about high-profile people the statement, “Government should be who end their lives or continue to live of laws rather than of men.” in seriously compromised situations As you watch national and state situwe think, “That’s a shame,” but don’t ations play out on TV, watch how indinecessarily do anything about it. Comcompany, which reDEC. 14 viduals talk about laws, then complain peer offers a unique opportunity to be ported the alarm had how certain people are being abused BENT OUT OF SHAPE a part of the solution. been turned on and off for their actions by those legislators or 12:01 a.m.

— 1500 Compeer (a French word meaning the previous night. The law-enforcement people upholding the block of 27th Street.

Crimfriend or companion) is an internationemployee working the law. inal Mischief.

After getting * al program that has been in existence previous night said she The pendulum swings two ways into an argument with for more than 40 years that matches had turned the alarm on favoritism. day one who *On Purchases $300 orhis moregirlfriend, with your Furniture Warehouse credit card made between August 19, 2014 an d August 18, 2015. InterestOne will be charged to may a man left community volunteers in friendship on and left the store, at receive special privilegerequired. over another your account from the purchase date for if thethe promotional purchase with is not apaid in full who withinis 12receiving months, bymental August 2015. Minimum Monthly Payments his home evening person which time $400 was in the next day could find another getting and stayed at his brother’s health services. For some participants the register. All employprivilege over him under the same apartment.

When he went it is literally lifesaving, and for most ees had access to the concept. outside later, he discovit is a highlight of their recovery.

The alarm code and a key to If you don’t believe the law is just, ered his car had been vanprogram is simple and only requires the register, the owner change it. Otherwise you will end dalized; both side mirrors four hours of shared time a month, reported. The two emup tomorrow becoming what you are had been broken off and although, for some, the friendships last ployees at the scene protesting against today. the antenna was bent. The a lifetime. said they were not reWells Purmort man believed his girlfriend Would you look into your heart and sponsible for the theft.

Sarasota was responsible. see if there is room for a Compeer

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SPARCC dedicates animal kennel

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Thanks to funding from Mary Ann Robinson, families staying at Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center’s emergency center have a place to bring their beloved pets.

Robinson is a member emeritus of the Safe Place & Rape Crisis Center Board of Directors. The kennel, named Mic and Mac’s after her own dogs, was dedicated to her Dec. 18.

Her donation funded the project, which allowed for a separate animal area at the emergency shelter. With solid fencing all around the outdoor run and space for up to six animals inside the heated and air-conditioned area, families seeking shelter have a place to bring their animals.

“I have dogs, and I felt so sorry for the kids who were coming here without being able to bring their pets,” Robinson said.

The kennel was completed about six months ago, said Olivia Thomas, SPARCC’s president and CEO. It has already housed more than 20 companion animals since then.

Before the kennel was completed, a SPARCC volunteer would help take in family animals, said Jennifer Priest, a resident assistant at the emergency shelter, but the women and children coming in still had anxiety about being separated from their pets.

The ability to take their pet sometimes determines whether someone will stay or leave an abusive situation, said Thomas.

“Someone who is abusive to people is often abusive to animals as well,” she said, adding that the abuser can also use the pet as a manipu-

Jessica Salmond

Luisa Goldman, SPARCC board president, pets Lilly.

Right: SPARCC board members visited the kennel to dedicate it to Mary Ann Robinson, who donated the funds to construct it. lation tool if it is left behind.

The shelter has housed dogs and cats, and even hamsters and guinea pigs. One woman asked to sleep in the kennel with her dog — so SPARCC assistants gave her a cot to sleep on, Priest said.

“People depend on their animals,” Priest said. “When they’re in a relationship where they’re being controlled in what they do, they have that one creature who gives them unconditional love.”

Robinson is not done helping the emergency shelter, though — the

next project is renovating the kitchens, and she wants to help. SPARCC hopes to make the space a dual kitchen — two stoves, two ovens — so there is plenty of room for two families to cook at once. The shelter has 27 beds and it’s usually full, said Luisa Goldman, board president.

Thomas said the board was already toying with calling it the “Key lime pie” kitchen and framing Robinson’s favorite recipe to hang inside.

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YourObserver.com

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

DOWNTOWN SARASOTA

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SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

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Jim Cater and Ginger Judge and other residents of The Glenridge on Palmer Ranch mingled and danced at the annual Holiday Gala Dec. 10.

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Ruthe Actor, Randi Brodsky, Jane Greenfield, Arlene Levine and Betty Levitt attended the Latkes and Vodka event Dec. 14, at Temple Beth Sholom.

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Sports

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

5

YOUROBSERVER.COM

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

HIGH

MOMENTS OF THE WEEK

1

Three players scored in double figures as the Sarasota High girls basketball team edged past district rival Lakewood Ranch 42-36 Dec. 11.

2

Natalie Gorji scored three goals and added an assist to lead The Out-of-Door Academy to a 6-0 district victory over Sarasota Christian Dec. 12.

3

Point guard McKenzie Lantz scored 20 points to lead Sarasota Christian past Palmetto 56-47 Dec. 12.

4

Abbey Donofrio recorded a double-double to lead the Cardinal Mooney girls basketball team to a 35-21 victory over The Out-of-Door Academy Dec. 13.

5

The Riverview High boys soccer team notched its third shutout of the season with a 3-0 victory over rival Sarasota Dec. 12.

The Suncoast Tennis League is one of five sponsors for the 941 Junior Tennis Circuit, which provides tournament experience to junior tennis players.

FRIENDLY

The Suncoast Tennis League welcomes 1,800 players in five divisions from 30 clubs across Manatee and Sarasota counties.

COMPETITION When Brad Hahn retired and moved to University Park Country Club in 1994, the expectation was that he would take up golf. That’s just what you did.

Hahn tried to take up the game, but he never really fell in love with the sport. A year after moving to the area, University Park built a set of tennis courts, and Hahn traded in his golf clubs for a tennis racket.

Hahn played on a men’s 50s league before joining the Suncoast Tennis League when he turned 60 years old.

Now, 19 years after he first picked up a tennis racket, Hahn, who plays on University Park’s men’s 70s team, is one of approximately 1,800 members involved in the Suncoast Tennis League.

“It was so much more my preference,” says Hahn, who also serves as the Suncoast Tennis League’s secretary. “I’m very competitive, and I enjoy that, personally. I also enjoy the camaraderie and the team spirit.”

Formerly the Sarasota County Senior Men’s Tennis League, the Suncoast Tennis League was founded in 1983 as a way to promote friendly, competitive league tennis among senior men in the Greater Sarasota area.

In 1983, the league consisted of 16 teams from 10 clubs. Today, the Suncoast Tennis League is home to 145 teams, comprising nearly 1,800 players, from 30 clubs across Manatee and Sarasota counties.

Ultimately, the Suncoast Tennis League, which its members be-

Courtesy photos

Local tennis professionals from Manatee and Sarasota counties offer free skill clinics to players at the end of the season. lieve to be the largest independent men’s tennis league in the country, hopes to eventually have 10 teams in each division.

Longboat Key Public Tennis Center represents the largest contingent of players with 12 teams, followed by Sarasota Racquet Club and Jacaranda each with 10 teams and Lakewood Ranch and Plantation each with nine teams.

“A lot of the teams have been playing together for years,” says Suncoast Tennis League President Steen Carstensen, who plays for The Oaks Club’s 60s and 70s teams.

“We want to make sure people have fun.”

Teams compete in five age divisions, ranging from 50s to 80s, with each team competing in three

courts of doubles matches once a week. Players compete in a total of 18 matches throughout the season, which began Nov. 1 and run through March 28. Over the course of the season, teams alternate between home and away matches, which creates an even playing field throughout the league.

The Suncoast Tennis League, which is not affiliated with USTA, is continually looking for new members and additional teams to join the organization.

“We are strictly an age division league,” Hahn says. “We have some very skilled tennis players in Sarasota and Manatee. Some of the strongest players (in the area) participate in our league.”

Following the season, the Sun-

BY THE NUMBERS

30 5 18 12

Clubs across Manatee and Sarasota counties that are represented.

Age divisions within the Suncoast Tennis League.

Matches members play throughout the season.

Teams who play out of Longboat Key Public Tennis Center, which is the club with the most teams

coast Tennis League’s Board of Directors holds an awards luncheon at the Meadows Country Club.

During the luncheon, players also have the opportunity to participate in a variety of skill clinics with local tennis professionals.

“We really think we’re providing a huge benefit to the older guys in the community,” Carstensen says. “Folks are out there enjoying themselves in a competitive but friendly environment.”

In 2013, the Suncoast Tennis League was formally recognized as a nonprofit organization. Since then, the league has been one of five sponsors for the 941 Junior Tennis Circuit, which provides tournament experience to junior tennis players, ranging in age from 8 to 18, through a series of bimonthly Saturday tournaments.

“Our league is always looking to give back and promote tennis,” Carstensen says.

14A

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

Check out what’s happening

JUST THE STATS

This Week In Sarasota!

Wednesday, Dec. 31 7:30 & 10:30

6

NEW YEARS EVE

Ring in the New Year at Blue Rooster with the Damon Fowler Group. Shows at 7:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.

PRICE: $20 COVER

WHITE MANGO BLOCK PARTY

Enjoy live music by 2Beat, who are back in town for

this special performance. Stay tuned for White Mango, who will jam for the rest of the night.. PRICE: FREE

LOCATION BLUE ROOSTER 1525 4th St. Sarasota, FL 34236 Friday, Dec. 26 9 p.m.

LOCATION SHAMROCK PUB

2257 Ringling Blvd.

20

The number of games the Sarasota High girls basketball team has scored at least 60 points in this season after beating Booker 61-32 Dec. 12.

The number of points Eunique Arnold and Bryan Hudson each scored in the Booker High boys basketball team’s 59-48 victory over Bayshore Dec. 11.

2

5

The number of players who scored in double figures in the Sarasota Christian boys basketball team’s 96-24 district win versus Donahue Academy Dec. 11.

83

The number of goals Jill Polk and Skylar Jungers each scored in the Cardinal Mooney girls soccer team’s 6-1 victory over Sarasota Dec. 12.

The number of points the Sarasota Military Academy boys basketball team scored in its victory over Community Christian Dec. 12.

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YourObserver.com

PEN PALS

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

by Amanda Morales | Staff Writer

Dear Santa, Imagine me walking out of my room. I open my gift and there’s a ginormes smile on my face. For Christmas, I want a Frozen stuffed doll collection as Kristoff, Elsa, Anna Sven, Hans, and Olaf from Walmart for Christmas. A collection of Frozen stuffed dolls would be excellent for me and awesome for my family.

Love Stephanie S.

Dear, Santa, For Christmas I would like a Barbie dream house, the Barbies Chelsea, Stacy, Raqualle, Ryan, and the Barbie camper. I also would like a my generation doll geep, kitchen, bed, camper, and motercycle. I love how you help every body!

Lov, Sidney

d e an as. m ing ristm are e v i ta, for g ery Ch !! How n a st r S ou ev Dea hank yesents the be T is pr are ? g s my nta you ’s doin Sa ur Elf Isaac yo ove, L

Dear , a t n a S Dear Santa, Thank you from Last year. What I want for Christma’s a Bumblebee, a Nerf gun, and a computer and mario or a Kart.

Love, Erlan

Ashton and ores h Phillippi S y Elementar ents d School stu share their es. h holiday wis

Santa Claus North Pole

Derr Santa, Thank you for my Army suit. And this is what I want for Christmas Santa, new video games and new born puppies and I want to have a picture of you.

Love Gavin

Dear Santa, Picture this: I’m by the tree with a smile on my face with a new plush monkey in my hand and sitting under the tree with the light on. I want a brown soft monkey plush with blue colored eyes. I want it to have a smile on its face. I want the fur to be fuzzy.

Love, Sienna

ONLINE // Visit YourObserver.com to read more letters to Santa.

153944

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16A

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

JOLLY TROLLEY

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

by Jessica Salmond | Staff Writer

Condo Council chooses the best and brightest Peppertree Bay

Sandpiper Beach Club

Sandpiper Beach Club placed first in the 50 or fewer units condominium category.

Peppertree Bay placed first in the 101 or more units condominium category.

Island House

Right: Island House placed first in the 51 to 100 units condominium category.

The Siesta Dunes Condominiums decorations included several creatures including two moose and two peacocks, including this one.

LOOK WHAT'S NEW ON THE MENU AT

BURRITOS and AHI TUNA TACO'S FREE BEACH DELIVERY

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OPEN

New Year’s Eve 11- 8

Come in and taste the newest Sarasota treat.

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DINING

AL SOM WAYS HAPPETH I NG ENIN G!

100 Prizes & Cash......................................Crab Legs Dinner $1099 $ 99 TUES. ................ Tiki Tuesday, Entertainment & Dancing ..................................... Hamburger 1 $ 99 WED. ................. Latin Night, Entertainment & Dancing ................................................... 2 TaCos 1 $ 99 THUR. ............... Fundraiser Parties, Entertainment & Dancing .. FuLL LobsTer Dinner 9 $ 99 FRI. ...................... Live Music 7:00pm-1:00am ............................................................... FisH & CHips 9 $ 99 SAT. ..................... Live Music & Dancing, All Day & Night ...........prime rib Dinner (PM only) 9 $ 99 SUN. .................. Live Music & Dancing, All Day & Night... broasTeD CHiCken Dinner 8 $ 50 EVERYDAY... 2:00pm - 5:00pm ......................burger & DomesTiC DraFT or soDa 5 158611

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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 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 HAPPY HOUR DAILY • LIVE ENTERTAINMENT 2-For-1 Daiquiris 3-7pm • Lunch Specials Mon.-Fri. 5250 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key • 325 John Ringling Blvd., St. Armands 300 W.Venice Ave,Venice 941-349-8697 • www.daiquirideck.com

VENICE

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5515 S Tamiami Trail | Sarasota, FL 34231 | 941.312.9111

(Take ‘em live or we’ll steam for you!)

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

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The lighting contests judges were treated with Christmas carolers at Whispering Sands.

Closed New Year’s Day

157867

FREE “Best Cuban anywhere” John B W IFI “No better value on the key” Deb S “Your kids will love it - Cotton candy + sno-cones” Cheryl G “I can’t believe they delivered my Reuben to the beach” Connie L

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

156791

With the help of eggnog and the Siesta trolley, judges toured Siesta Key to select the winners of the Siesta Key Condo Council’s annual condo lighting contest Dec. 17.

Members of Siesta Key Village Association, Siesta Key Association, Siesta Key Condo Council and Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce traveled together to vote. Sarasota County Commissioner Alan Maio and his wife, Nancy, joined in on the decorative fun.

“I thought (the displays) were outstanding. Each year is a little different,” said Diane Erne, the condo council’s event chair for the Christmas lighting contest.

This year had a twist — a lighthearted contest between Mark Smith, vice president of Siesta Key Village Association, and Nancy Maio to see who made the best eggnog. It never came to a vote.

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

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SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

17A

the finest services of real estate

Annette Rogers 941.284.7373

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GOLDEN GATE POINT DOWNTOWN SARASOTA This custom-designed 5,600 square foot penthouse is a marvel of exquisite taste and dazzling display of luxurious finishes. Spectacular views, 2 car garage and private boat dock. $4,695,000

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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.

159220

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18A

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

real estate | transactions

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

By Adam Hughes | Research Editor

Bay Plaza condo sells for $810,000 The following residential real estate transactions took place between Dec. 8 and Dec. 12.

A condominium in Bay Plaza tops all transactions in this weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s real estate. Ibrahim and Gamila Ibrahim, of Clearwater, sold their Unit 1403 condominium at 1255 N. Gulfstream Ave. to Betty Hegner, trustee, of Lakewood Ranch, for $810,000. Built in 1982, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,565 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $790,000 in 2005.

The Landings

John and Janice Sullivan, of Sarasota, sold their home at 1742 Peregrine Point Drive to Alan and Laurene Ross, of Sarasota, for $535,000. Built in 1981, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,447 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $266,800 in 1987.

The Villas on Laurel

John and Regina Kearney, of Middlesex, Mass., sold their Unit

Sarasota, for $243,000. Built in 1969, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,473 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $91,500 in 1998.

Pelican Cove

South Pointe Woods

South Gate

Ashton Lakes

The Uplands

Patricia Manor

Avis McHenry and Renee McHenry, trustees, sold the Unit 177 condominium at 1615 Clower Creek Drive to Mark and Barbara Hartman, of Canaan, N.Y., for $250,000. Built in 1979, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 1,703 square feet of living area.

SARASOTA Sapphire Shores

Stephen and Susan McDonald, of Sarasota, sold their home at 360 N. Shore Drive to Jonathan Keller, of Lakewood Ranch, for $615,000. Built in 1957, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,240 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $320,000 in 2010.

LLC for $303,000. Built in 1949, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 1,922 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $235,000 in November.

File photo

Unit 1403 at Bay Plaza has two bedrooms, two baths, 1,565 square feet of living area and sold for $810,000.

8 condominium at 1685 Laurel St. to Joseph and Margaret Spinella, of Sarasota, for $465,000.

Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 1,856 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $475,000 in 2005.

Alinari

Jeffrey and Sherri Marsalese, of Allegheny, Pa., sold their Unit 602 condominium at 800 N. Tamiami Trail to Jean-Michel and Nelly Olive, of Bormes les Mimosas, France, for $373,000. Built in 2007, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,323 square feet of

442 Canal Road #A4105895 $1,150,000 Kristina Talkie & Judy Arreola

Siesta Key 941-349-3444 941-266-8658

14722 Leopard Creek Place #A4103587 $710,000 Susanne Cosgrove-Lee

1201 Dockside Place #A4100449 $625,000 Daria Spina

Siesta Key 941-349-3444 941-650-7207

1944 Morrill Street #A4109716 $599,900 Barbara E Gahry

living area. It previously sold for $519,000 in 2007.

Coral Cove

Andrew Misner and Sabrina Sullivan, of Sarasota, sold their home at 3249 Key Ave. to Michele Mancini, trustee, of Sarasota, for $245,000. Built in 1965, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,760 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $145,000 in 2013.

Brenda Hill, of Sarasota, sold her home at 7513 Cove Terrace to Edward and Kay Talbot, of Sarasota, for $314,500. Built in 1960, it has two bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,663 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $338,000 in 2003.

Chris and Ellen Mera, trustees, of Sarasota, sold the home at 473 Parkview Drive to Christopher and Nancy Adamo, of Sarasota, for $245,000. Built in 1968, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,681 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $215,000 in 2002.

Grove Lawn

Gulfview

Stephen Campion, of Sarasota, sold the home at 2120 Wisteria St. to Mission Property Partners

Steven and Evelyn Inlow, of Sarasota, sold their home at 2626 Belvoir Blvd. to Robert Kaye, of

Lakewood Ranch 941-349-3444 941-400-9068

760 Norsota Way #A4104378 $679,000 Drew Russell

Siesta Key 941-966-8000 941-993-3739

19 Whispering Sands Dr # 1002 #A3993888 $649,000 Camille Schwabe

Siesta Key 941-349-3444 941-894-4771

1060 Seagrove Lane #A4109519 $2,650,000 Nicole Dovgopolyi

Sarasota 941-966-8000 941-586-3936

350 Kettle Harbor Drive #D5901117 $599,000 Kevin Mackin

Palm Island 941-473-7750 941-769-0198

1800 Midnight Cove Ii Place #A4109759 $589,900 Michael Bruno

Siesta Key 941-966-8000 941-320-3229

6140 Midnight Pass Road #A4108273 $500,000 Brian Meskil

SHARE YOUR

Lawrence and Adrianne Vance, of Sarasota, sold their home at 3357 Plantation Drive to 3357 Plantation LLC for $235,000.

Built in 1981, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,725 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $154,500 in 2004.

Greggory and Debra Smith, of Sarasota, sold their Unit 5711 condominium at 5711 Ashton Way to Green Tree Servicing LLC for $224,000. Built in 1996, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,232 square feet of living area.

It previously sold for $320,000 in 2005.

Terranova Kitchen LLC sold the home at 2849 David Blvd. to Denes Roveti, of Arnold, Md., for $220,000. Built in 1957, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,196 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $70,700 in 2013.

Westlake Estates

Diane Lewis, of Sarasota, sold her home at 5325 Fox Run Way to Marketa Kabelova, of Sarasota, for $218,000. Built in 1984, it has two bedrooms, one-and-a-half baths,

Siesta Key 941-966-8000 941-356-5849

Siesta Key 941-966-8000 941-780-3468

1847 Prospect Street #M5902954 $499,900 Cheryl Roberts

Sarasota 941-748-6300 941-266-1450

PHOTOS

3218 W Forest Lake Drive #A4109742 $475,000 Linda Driggs

1380 Harbor Dr #A3988563 $2,350,000 Susan Mitchell

Sarasota 941-951-6660 941-374-2920

393 N Point Road #A4106241 $450,000 Diane Hager

Osprey 941-966-8000 941-918-1977

Sarasota 941-951-6660 941-780-5085

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

YOUR PHOTO MAY APPEAR ON MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM

5830 Midnight Pass Road #A4105842 $449,000 Kristina Rain

Siesta Key 941-349-3444 941-320-2639

13872 Parkstone Way #A4106611 $445,000 Jane Rees

Sarasota 941-388-4447 941-586-3970

4921 Luster Leaf Lane #A4100131 $439,900 Rudy Dudon

Sarasota 941-349-3444 941-234-3991

4320 Brandywine Drive #A4109658 $419,000 Stacy Hanan

Sarasota 941-951-6660 941-266-0529

11469 Dancing River Drive #A4109616 $416,000 Christine Kramer

Venice 941-349-3444 941-914-5011

8061 Via Fiore #A4109694 $399,000 June Howell

Sarasota 941-966-8000 941-350-7521

428 Alhambra Road #A4109619 $379,000 Victoria Stultz

Venice 941-966-8000 941-387-5676

5513 White Ibis Drive #N5901029 $364,900 Michelle Hupp

North Port/Venice 941-485-5421 941-773-5464

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

19A

TOP BUILDING PERMITS These are the largest city of Sarasota and Sarasota County building permits issued for the week of Dec. 8 through Dec. 12, in order of dollar amounts.

CITY OF SARASOTA Address

Permit

Applicant

1255 N. Gulfstream Ave. 1525 Gulfview Drive 1771 Ringling Blvd.

2482 W. Paulstan Court 1829 Bougainvillea St. 438 S. Shore Drive 100 Central Ave. 3550 Tangier Terrace 2520 Hyde Park St. 770 S. Palm Ave.

Renovations Alterations Remodel Addition Re-roof Pool/Spa Addition Seawall Alterations Remodel

Barbara Kupferberg Jagan Akella Geoffrey Piken Rafall Baranski Kelly Orr Andrew Misner Chase Curtis Scott Schechter James Dalton Adam Martin

Amount $200,000 $65,000 $38,000 $35,000 $34,000 $31,648 $29,750 $29,700 $26,000 $15,200

SARASOTA COUNTY Address

Permit

Applicant

Amount

2 Sandy Hook Road S. 1527 Southbay Drive 5169 Sandy Shore Ave. 8012 Midnight Pass Road 2532 Hibiscus St. 4252 Hearthstone Drive 6140 Midnight Pass Road 5454 Avenida Del Mare 7362 Periwinkle Drive 6436 Beechwood Ave.

Alterations Remodel Pool/Deck Pool/Deck Generator Re-roof Windows Remodel Boatlift Windows

William Weisberg John O’Connor Timothy Hensey Melvin Hogan Eldon Miller Robert Leadbetter William Staehlin Jeffrey Otten Jerome Ennis Leo Bratland

$75,000 $70,000 $51,000 $40,152 $33,642 $29,826 $24,651 $24,567 $24,000 $23,795

855 & 853 Siesta Key Cir #A3993255 $3,600,000 Karen Cash Greco

Siesta Key 941-966-8000 941-504-6927

Source: Sarasota County; city of Sarasota

SIESTA Siesta Breakers

Kenneth and Roberta Alterman sold their Unit 216 condominium at 6480 Midnight Pass Road to Thomas and Nancy Reilly, of Cincinnati, for $785,000. Built in 1979, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,265 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $280,000 in 1992.

5685 Pipers Waite #A4109197 $339,000 Heidi Cox

5770 Sandy Pointe Drive #A4109652 $284,900 Matthew Cannon

5241 Mahogany Run Avenue #A4106856 $187,000 Anja Deichmann

7321 Midnight Pass Road #A4102361 $5,999,999 Michael Hays

Sarasota 941-907-9595 941-685-1529

Sarasota 941-951-6660 941-228-2030

Sarasota 941-951-6660 941-284-7987

2714 Goodwood Court #A4109273 $299,000 Marci Mcfarland

16234 Cape Horn Boulevard #C7205674 $218,000 Sandra Limberger

2710 Feiffer Circle #A4109677 $174,900 C. Scott Dennison

608 S Casey Key Rd #A3996519 $2,000,000 Kelly Quigley & Linda Dickinson

Sarasota by the Sea

Nokomis/North Venice 941-966-8000 941-356-9954

7327 Midnight Pass Rd #A3992403 $1,960,000 Klaus Lang

Siesta Key 941-383-7591 941-320-1223

7440 Manasota Key Rd #A3997461 $1,930,000 Melba Jimenez PA

Englewood 941-951-6660 941-356-3970

7445 Sanderling Rd #A3986383 $1,875,000 Stephanie Church

Siesta Key 941-388-4447 941-724-5448

3955 Roberts Point Road #A4102967 $1,690,000 Mark McCann

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

5167 Dewey Pl #A3986044 Dan Freed

$1,675,000

Siesta Key 941-966-8000 941-735-0770

4809 Higel Avenue #A4106610 $1,500,000 Karen Chandler

Siesta Key 941-349-3444 941-544-4919

3603 N Point Rd # 801 #A3938726 $1,395,000 Barbara McDonald

Osprey 941-966-8000 941-356-5367

3625 White Ln #A3996530 $1,365,000 Kim & Patty Gilliland

Siesta Key 941-349-3444 941-809-5151

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

Sarasota 941-349-3444 941-350-5542

680 N Macewen Drive #A4102085 $1,167,000 Jennifer Putnam

Osprey 941-951-6660 941-539-6768

2525 Pleasant Pl #A3998087 $999,900 Peggy Wellman & Robert Moffatt

Sarasota 941-966-8000 941-374-0811

Suncastle Properties LLC sold the home at 1139 Sun N Sea Drive to Russell Pfeifer and Pie Oilfield Ltd. for $620,000. Built in 1955, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,362 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $762,500 in 2005.

YOUROBSERVER.COM // See a map of this week’s incident locations.

Sarasota 941-966-8000 941-961-3390

Punta Gorda 941-505-5555 239-898-5238

Sarasota 941-951-6660 941-587-3437

1051 Greystone Lane #A4109381 $297,900 Susanne Cosgrove-Lee

1669 Monarch Drive #N5901328 $212,000 Susan Brooker

520 Carmalita Street #C7201927 $105,900 Kaley Lewis

Sarasota 941-349-3444 941-400-9068

Venice 941-493-2500 941-223-6055

Punta Gorda 941-639-0000 941-268-3700

Siesta Key 941-349-3444 941-376-1826

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

158681

a pool and 1,513 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $156,000 in 2010.

20A

The Weather Outside is NOT Frightful...

YourObserver.com

strong, smart, bold

Renting a Boat is So Delightful!

SARASOTA OBSERVER

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

by Amanda Morales | Staff Writer

Cannons.com • 941-383-1311 6040 Gulf of Dr., Longboat Key available | Open 7 days week, 8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

ToMexico see the rental models visitaCannons.com

157192

At the close of another year we gratefully pause to wish you a warm and happy Holiday Season. Cannons Marina features Sarasota Bay’s largest and newest fleet of boats for half and full day rentals.

Amanda Morales

Girl of the Year recipient Isabelle Crotsley, Girls Inc. Distinguished Board Chair Donna Ogilvie and National Girls Inc. Champions for Girls award recipient Sherry Watts.

157941

Girls Inc. surprises board member with award A celebration was in order for Girls Incorporated of Sarasota County.

Two surprise awards were given out at a special presentation Dec. 18. The first National Girls Inc. Champions for Girls award was presented to an unsuspecting Sherry Watts for her many years of dedication to the organization and the program locally. Watts served as the previous president of Girls Inc. Sarasota. She was caught off guard by the recognition that included a video from National Girls Inc. President and CEO Judy Vredenburgh.

“I’ve watched generations of girls whose lives have changed,” Watts said.

“There are thousands of women today who are happy and productive. They are strong, smart and bold women making a difference in the world, so I’m always

honored to be a part of this organization.”

Friend and Girls Inc. Distinguished Board Chair Donna Ogilvie made sure she was present to see Watts recognized.

“She deserves it,” Ogilvie said. “She’s been doing so much for Girls Inc., and it’s high time that we honor her.”

Every year Girls Inc. of Sarasota names one girl who represents the motto of Strong, Smart and Bold with the Girl of the Year award. This year’s recipient is Isabelle Crotsley, whose parents, Hilda and Frank Crotsley, surprised her with the award at the presentation.

Former Girl of the Year recipients were onstage to welcome Crotsley into the group, and they presented her with flowers and a banner.

ey Fish Hous K y e e and the Cas

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Tiki Bar

Fabulous Food, Moderately Priced

WATERFRONT SEAFOOD GRILL “Old Florida At Its BEST”

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Wishing you and your family a blessed and joyful holiday from our family at the Observer Media Group.

Every Friday, Saturday & Sunday 801 Blackburn Pt. Rd. in Osprey (3 mi. south of Sarasota Square Mall)

941-966 -1901 www.caseykeyfishhouse.com

159238

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SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

EXPLORING NATURE’S BEAUTY

21A

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

FORECAST THURSDAY, DEC. 25 High: 66 Low: 44 Chance of rain: 10%

FRIDAY, DEC. 26 High: 73 Low: 56 Chance of rain: 0%

High: 76 Low: 61 Chance of rain: 10%

SUNDAY, DEC. 28 High: 73 Low: 55 Chance of rain: 20%

YOUROBSERVER.COM/WEATHER

Sunrise

Sunset

Thursday, Dec. 25

7:18a

5:43p

Friday, Dec. 26

7:18a

5:43p

Saturday, Dec. 27

7:19a

5:44p

Sunday, Dec. 28

7:19a

5:44p

Monday, Dec. 29

7:20a

5:45p

Tuesday, Dec. 30

7:20a

5:46p

Wednesday, Dec. 31

7:20a

5:46p

MOON PHASES

Monday, Dec. 15

0.00

Tuesday, Dec. 16

0.00

Wednesday, Dec. 17

0.00

Thursday, Dec. 18

0.00

Friday, Dec. 19

0.00

Saturday, Dec. 20

0.00

Sunday, Dec. 21

0.06

Dec. 28

Jan. 4

YEAR TO DATE:

2014

50.66 in.

2013

52.49 in.

Jan. 13

MONTH TO DATE:

Courtesy: wunderground.com

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

RAINFALL

SATURDAY, DEC. 27

 Patricia Orzechowski submitted this sunset photo, taken at Nokomis Beach.

SUNRISE / SUNSET

2014

0.08 in.

2013

0.03 in.

Jan. 20

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

a a reflection reflection of of nature’s nature’s beauty beauty

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 MOHAWK Dealer of the Year!

O B S E RV E R C RO S S WO R D Edited by Timothy E. Parker

TRIVIA FOR THE BRILIANT by Rob Lee ACROSS 1 7 10 13 17 18 20 21 22

25 26 27

28 30 31 32 33 34 36 38 39 40 43

4

CRYPTOGRAMS

1. V J G C O J G V J G P O H Z G I S P W W E B G S O J G W N X C H Z G I S N H B O G P I Z C U OJG V P O G X , OJG W N XC H Z G I S BP Z S OJG XG V PB C ’O P U X P Z C N H OXEOJ ZC ZO!

50 52 54 55 57 59 60 61

Q Z T Q O L DR G B SH V C QW R H LT R , LT R SDI , “M L SM DR Z QM M LT

63 64 65 67

V D Z I Q O I T C Q R D M D N S Z M T I .”

69

2. N L T Z S A R T I H S W R S B T R X S Z O Q A Z I S G D W I L S I X S I T S X T R R Q Z

www.manasotaonline.com

154715

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year from our family to yours!

Easily bent Faux ___ Wharton grad “Hey, mac!”

“It’s a deal!”

Strain for Domingo “___ Ha’i” Need liniment Plant with buttercuplike flowers Smacking sound Generals’ staff members Frankenstein’s monster’s birthplace In a corpulent manner Vein find William Wallace, for one Tony of “Leave It to Beaver” By 212, to New Yorkers A distant point Those elected O’Hara’s Joey “So, there you are!”

Greek estimator of Earth’s circumference “What’s up, ___?”

Kind of ship?

“Little” Stowe girl Yemen capital JFK watchdog Fruity-smelling compound Historic starter The whole ___ (everything) Final amt.

Highest deg.

Physicist Fermi British conductor Sir Thomas Lofty nest

71Canine job 74 Soils with chimney grime 75 Architectural ornament 77 Workers’ collective disposition 78 Batman and Robin are a dynamic one 79 Diner’s prerogative 80 Beyond the megalopolis 83 ___ Lobos (“La Bamba” group) 84 Cum laude modifier 86 ___ Paulo, Brazil 87 Deodorant type 88 N.Y.’s Madison, for one 89 Send again 90 Point-of-purchase equip. giant 92 Deterrent example 96 Tit for ___ 97 Common Market initials 99 Paintings, sculptures, etc.

100 ___-Napoca, Romania 102 Dialect expert, e.g.

107 Prefix for degradable 108 “Runaround ___” 109 White as a sheet 113 “A Bug’s Life” bug 114 Limit on utility charges 116 Naught 117 Plant parts 118 Unadultered 120 Hindmost part of the brain 123 “Under the Net” novelist Murdoch 124 Issued a command to 125 Canoer’s worry 126 Aaron Burr was

one, once 127 Splinter group 128 Shrewd 129 Marina ___ Rey, California 130 Barnum’s “attraction”

DOWN

1 Lengthy narratives 2 Finno-___ (Hungarian language family) 3 Museum in Madrid 4 100 centimos 5 More or ___ (approximately) 6 Tokyo’s ex-name 7 Tree with oblong leaves (var.)

8 Saudi native 9 Title for Arthur Conan Doyle 10 Italian marble city 11 More depressed 12 Supermarket walkway 13 Dog foot 14 Philosophy 15 Archaeological bit 16 Sioux shelter 19 Put holy oil on 20 Teacher’s deg.

23 Plants of a region 24 Cause embarrassment to 29 Imitate an annoying dog 32 “Nuts!”

33 It’s a charge 35 Hardly Mr. Right 37 “Cape ___” (‘91 De Niro film) 40 Aldous Huxley’s “___ and Essence” 41 Like the New World 42 Regarding humans as all-important 44 Tin-lead alloy 45 Conspicuous 46 Suffix with Vietnam or Japan 47 Capture, as a burglar 48 Supplies with the

49 51 53 56 58 60 61 62 66 68 69 70 72 73 76 81 82 84 85 88 89 91 93 94 95 98 101 102 103 104 105 106 108 110 111 112 115 116 117 119 121 122

means Sober-minded Muscular rigidity Emergency worker Dark and Middle, e.g.

Poor-box contents Throw into disorder Grafting shoot Gardener, at times “___ la Douce” (1963 film) Musical postscripts Works as a thespian ___ out (manages) Trombone slide Emollientproducing plants Former Canadian athlete British rule in colonial India “Ciao!”

Course listings Quick-witted Sax type 66-Down, for MacLaine Normal size (Abbr.)

Secret group of plotters Hardest hit to get Long oar Junkyard canine Coastal diving bird Stone at the Forum?

Habituate Metrical units Take the wrong way?

Type of bear Greek and Roman female oracle No longer fresh Highly dislikes 1999 and 1492 Billiards stick Orbital point “___ as a bug in a rug” Shakespearean suffix Do some math Poetic form

12-25-14

Thursday, December 25, 2014

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

Ad runs 2 consecutive weeks in 1 Observer.

(No phone calls please.)

(Please provide your name and address) Email ad to: classified@yourobserver.com Online at: www.yourobserver.com Or mail to: The Observer Group P.O. Box 3169 Sarasota, Fl 34230 BIKE: 21 speed, long wheel base frame and car carrier, $50/all. 941-928-8343.

BIRD CAGE: 17"X22"X35”, dome top, new condition, $75. Call John, 941-924-1008 Sarasota.

Garage/Moving/Estate Sales

Real Estate Wanted

ESTATE SALE Saturday, December 27th 8:45a.m. – 2p.m.

2425 Constitution Blvd.

WANTED LUXURY ANNUAL RENTALS

Fully furnished home: china, glassware, furniture & full garage.

Check www.estatesales.net for details and pictures.

Sale by Julie McClure EXCITING MID-CENTURY DESIGN AUCTION SUNDAY, JANUARY 4TH @ 1PM See next week’s ad for details.

Elliott Bernstein Auctions AU3504 - AB2545 Gallery Phone: 941-351-3002

Lost & Found FOUND: LARGE gold man’s wedding ring in the area of Capt. Kirk’s restaurant at Crescent Beach, Sarasota. Please call 402-936-1583.

DIATOMACEOUS EARTH, free. Ice cream & pasta makers, $10 ea. 941-371-3376.

Merchandise Wanted

FUJI SARATOGA Cruiser: like new, pedal forward technology, $75. 941-343-3034 (Siesta).

KEURIG COFFEE Maker, large. Like new. $35.

941-922-0765.

TOY STORAGE: (dolls, cars, crayons, etc), $20.

Small bike, $5. 941-918 0737.

ANTIQUE COUCH from Vermont in excellent condition, $185. (941) 924−5093.

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

Autos For Sale Hawley Motors II 5741 Pinkney Ave. 941-312-5890 2001 BMW Z3 2.5 Convertible, 1 owner, Florida car, 96K/miles, $7988 2006 Ford F150 Lariat, crew cab, sunroof, 4 wheel drive, 5.4L, 86K/miles, new tires, perfect, $16,988 1993 Mazda MX5 Miata, 1 owner, locally owned, 97K/miles, only $4988 2009 Scion xD, hatchback, 65K/miles, new tires, clean, $9988 2008 Toyota Yaris, 1 owner, new tires, $7988 2004 Audi A6, 1 owner, good service history, leather, $7988 2006 Nissan Altima, 76K miles, well kept, leather, $8988 2008 Buick Lucerne CXL , only 38K/miles! $13900 2003 Buick LeSabre Custom, leather, only 72K/miles, clean, $5988

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

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

Pools/Spas HOT TUB with lounger, never used, maintenance free cabinet, 110 or 220 volt, can deliver, $1895.

941-462-0633.

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

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

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 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

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

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Homes For Sale

Hawley Motors Over 32 Years in Business Sarasota’s Oldest Dealership Financing Available Cars Wanted - We Buy Cars!

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.

Autos Wanted GOTTA CAR You Wanna Sell?

The good, the bad, or the ugly.

Call now!

727-400-1910.

' / 62

For Qualified Waiting Clients Contact - Sarasota Luxury Rentals 941-225-1356 email: info@sarasotaluxuryrentals.com

CAMERA: PENTAX Asahi w/bulb, $40 obo. International outlet duel converter, $20 obo. 924-8477, 320-8045.

DUAL TRAILER/bicycle rack hitch, $25. Two Coleman sleeping bags, $40. AB Lounge exerciser, $35. 941-925-9521.

Health Services

Personalized attention with professional honest advice.

25 Years Experience - References available

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.

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.

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

Professional Services

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

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

Carpentry

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

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.

Cleaning AUGUSTINE’S CLEANING COMPANY. House cleaning, organizing.

Dependable, Professional.

Move in/ Move out.

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

BLUE FISH CLEANING INC. 941-705-3812.

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

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

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

Retail RESTAURANT BUSINESS for Sale in Siesta Key Village FOR SALE! Operational Restaurant Business in the famous Siesta Key Village!

40+ seats, long term lease in place and all FF&E comes with purchase! Confidentiality agreement required! Contact Brian Seidel, CCIM of American Property Group of Sarasota for more information!

(941)923−0535 www.americanpropertygroup.com

SELL IT!

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

955-4888

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

www.yourobserver.com

CLEANING MOTHER−IN−LAWS APPROVE! Routine, Deep, Move−ins/outs, Rentals, Offices Insured, Bonded, Reliable (941) 320−0023 Local and Independent, Since 2002 (941) 320−0023 www.CleanTimeServices.com

955.4888

www.yourobserver.com

PHYSICAL THERAPY 2650 Bahia Vista St. Suite 101 Sarasota, FL 34239 (941) 906−7766 Visit www.legacypt.com for more info.

This week’s Crossword answers

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

WE BUY CARS. TOP $$ PAID FOR YOUR VEHICLES. Call Hawley Motors, 941-923-3421.

HOUSE CLASSIFIEDS LP # 56733

Flooring

Furnishings BRAND NEW Serta Queen Pillowtop Mattress Set. Willing to sacrifice for $150. Need to sell quickly!

(941)387-4810.

Reserved Space LP Reserved Space

2014

This week’s Cryptogram answers

Go online to place your classified ad. classifieds.yourobserver.com Ready When You Are – Classified Ads, The Way to Sell

LV2654

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.

1. When the wheatfield accused the cornfield of stealing the water, the cornfield said there wasn’t a grain of truth in it!

2. When a used car salesman found a bird had made a mess on one of his black Porsches, he said, “that is not the kind of deposit I wanted.”

23A Classifieds 29A

SARASOTA OBSERVER

BLINDS/WINDOW TREATMENTS

HEAT BUSTERS

CONCRETE

Custom Made at Our Shop

1-2 Week Turnaround Time

Free Estimates â&#x20AC;˘ Free Installation

LACIVITA CONCRETE

State Lic. CR CO25291

Since 1967

Residential Concrete Specialist Patios - Driveways - Sidewalks

DOCKSIDE BOAT REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE

Shop Online

CERTIFIED & INSURED

CUSTOM WOODWORKING

156630

SMS Mobile Marine Service GPS/Fishfinder Installation â&#x20AC;˘ Outboards I/Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;˘ Inboards Call for appointment â&#x20AC;˘ 941-232-3523

CAREGIVER/COMPANION

941-387-6176 or 941-240-8414

Frank Beck Upholstery

Sliding Glass Door Repair

ADDYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CLEANING SERVICE

Honesty â&#x20AC;˘ Integrity â&#x20AC;˘ Quality â&#x20AC;˘ Value

â&#x20AC;˘ One Time, Weekly, Monthly â&#x20AC;˘ Res./Comm. â&#x20AC;˘ Move Ins/Outs â&#x20AC;˘ Carpet Cleaning â&#x20AC;˘ References â&#x20AC;˘ Free Est. â&#x2DC;&#x2026; Very Affordable Rates â&#x2DC;&#x2026;

Allow me to do my very best for you!

157324

singleturtle@aol.com

ALUMINUM

158965

Ph. 376-4228

Hours: Monday-Friday 9am - 3pm â&#x20AC;˘ Weekends by appointment

3687954-01

â&#x20AC;&#x153;FIX IT - DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T REPLACEâ&#x20AC;?

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

DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T LET YOUR

DRYER START A FIRE! Call Paradise Dryer Vent Cleaning Today

Insured

158640

15505 Lemon Fish Dr. Dustin Yoder Bradenton, FL 34202 yoderaluminum@gmail.com OfďŹ ce 941-650-9790 158536

Mercyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cleaning Service

WorkS for you!

780-3788 â&#x20AC;˘ 822-0436

CALL 24/7 â&#x20AC;˘ RESIDENTIAL SPECIALISTS FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL NEEDS!

SAVE $50

ON WORK COMPLETED!

Licensed â&#x20AC;˘ Free Estimates

157480

Cell (941)

158540

724-1395

Call Liz for the Best Price

of Sarasota

Franklin Kenny â&#x20AC;˘ Electrical Contractor 3690387-01

COMPUTER

Sharon M. Guy, P.A.

COMPUTER REPAIR SALES & SERVICE

157325

552-5766

Lic. #ER0013984

FurnitureSales Sales &&Repairs Furniture Repairs Cushions â&#x20AC;˘ Slings â&#x20AC;˘ Re-powdercoating #USHIONS s 3LINGS s 5MBRELLAS

941-504-0903

/54$//2 &52.)452% %80%243 s 777 0!4)/2%0!)23 .%4 157371

NEW LOCATION: 6968 Beneva Rd. 941-929-9095

Team Up Today With Classifieds â&#x20AC;˘ 941-955-4888

CONCRETE

HANDYMAN

Michael Koch Concrete, Inc.

Servicing the Sarasota area since 1999

Also Laying Stone

Reasonable Prices

Licensed & Insured

918-8587

Free Estimates

157194

Driveways â&#x20AC;˘ Sidewalks

158551

PATIO REPAIRS, INC PATIO REPAIRS

DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T THROW YOUR COMPUTER OUT THE WINDOW â&#x20AC;&#x201C; CALL LORITECH!

(Just around the corner Next to Beneva Flowers)

377-2272

FURNITURE REPAIR

New & Refurbished Computers Servicing PC & MAC on Site or In Shop Virus Removal We Make Windows 8 User-Friendly!

â&#x20AC;&#x153;No Job Too Smallâ&#x20AC;?

941.727.0272

LIGHTHOUSE ELECTRIC

158966

House/Condo/OfďŹ ce Cleaning Carpet & Floor Care FREE ESTIMATES Lic. # 46264

Law OfďŹ ce of

/LFHQVHG DQG ,QVXUHG (6

Move Ins/Move Outs

WILLS, TRUSTS, PROBATE, ELDER LAW

157358 38056

We Use Organic Products

ATTORNEY

158528

157195

Commercial and Residential Best Prices in Town

Call 955-4888 to reserve your space.

AUTO SERVICE

Licensed/Insured â&#x20AC;˘ Free Estimates

ELECTRIC

The Service DirecTory

OfďŹ ce in Palmer Ranch 8586 Potter Park Drive, Sarasota, FL 34238

â&#x20AC;˘ Repair â&#x20AC;˘ Remodel â&#x20AC;˘ New Construction

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.

) Carpentry ) Indoors ) Remodeling ) Ceramic Tile ) Water & Fire Damage ) Kitchen/Baths Licensed Lic. #38333 References

â&#x20AC;&#x153;OUR ESTIMATES & ADVICE ARE FREEâ&#x20AC;?

957-4762 (cell #) 504-3168

157828

Yoderaluminum.com

CHALMERS DRYWALL

www.paradisedryervent.com 157179

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Specializing in 6â&#x20AC;? Seamless Guttersâ&#x20AC;?

DRYWALL

YOUR SAFETY IS PRICELESS! 941. 979. 2707

Yoder Aluminum Inc.

157366

In shop free estimates Pick up and delivery services available

941â&#x20AC;˘ 925 â&#x20AC;˘ 2447

DOORS

CLEANING

Home Furnishing Restoration and Upholstery Specialist!

ESTABLISHED 1975!

158175

157783

CNA /Caregiver

158924

Sandra Shelton

ALTERATIONS/UPHOLSTERY

Sharon M. Guy

3680493-01

922-3157

BOAT SERVICES

941-518-8550

â&#x20AC;˘ POLY-PEBBLE / EPOXY â&#x20AC;˘ TEXTURED CONCRETE â&#x20AC;˘ RESEAL & REPAIRS â&#x20AC;˘ INTERLOCKING BRICK PAVERS Free Serving Sarasota 355-1148 Estimates Since 1979 SARASOTA â&#x20AC;˘ BRADENTON â&#x20AC;˘ VENICE

CALL NOW!

Prompt, Professional A/C/ Service

Lic# CAC1816809

3675768-01

157819

941-914-8408

DECORATIVE SURFACES FOR: PATIOS, POOL DECKS, DRIVEWAYS, ENTRYWAYS

Licensed â&#x20AC;˘ Insured Lic. #25393

AMERICAN SHUTTERS

Air Conditioning & Heating LLC

www.heatbusters.net

Custom Surfaces Inc.

PLANTATION SHUTTER SPECIALIST

158967

AIR CONDITIONING

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

YourObserver.com

www.yourobserver.com

158545

THE SARASOTA THURSDAY, DECEMBEROBSERVER/PE 25, 2014 Thursday, December 25, 2014

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

HANDYMAN

KITCHEN/BATH REMODELING

STEVE PANEBIANCO

THE GRAB BAR GUY

HOME REPAIR SERVICE

• NO JOB TOO SMALL • SCREEN REPAIRS • PAINTING/DRY WALL • TILE REPAIRS • & MUCH MORE!

Honey Do Handyman

Disposal Special

(cell) 780-3346 Licensed & Insured

Before

157827

BACHERT’S

147063 157474

ROOFING

Free Estimates Lawn & Landscape Maintenance

724-2945

Specializing in Re-Roofing & Repairs

Maintenance - Repair -Installation

Dave McCarthy

Phone (941) 704-4278 Fax (941) 538-3781 dmccarthy114@hotmail.com

Driveway and Deck Staining

FREE

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL Interior & Exterior Pressure Washing Pool Decks Drywall Repair Family Owned & Operated

Pet Care

by

484-4576

Melanie

• Excellent references

GRANITE COUNTERTOPS (941) 705 - 5940

(941) 966-2960

35 SF min with ad only

Family Owned & Operated • Third Generation Master Plumber All Major Credit Cards Accepted www.GeneralPlumbingSarasota.com

941-923-8140

NATIVE CUT TREE SERVICE

• Best Price on Palm Trimming Call Bob • Storm Preparation, Hauling & Mulching • Landscape Design & Installation 780-2267 • Monthly Shrub Pruning Licensed Landscape ANY OUTDOOR PROJECT & Insured

Renovations

WINDOWS Lic./Ins. se Window Washin i r n Su and Pressure Cleaning g

Res./Com.

Environmentally Friendly

“Leave Your Dirty Windows To Us”

941-447-0127 • 941-284-5880

• Drain & Sewer Cleaning • Backflows Installation • Re-piping Houses & Slab Leaks • Natural Gas Installations - Appliance Hook ups • Power Flush & Comfort Height Toilets • All Water Heaters - Tankless - Gas - Solar • All Major Plumbing Fixtures Repaired or Replaced • Garbage Disposals • New Water & Sewer Services • Dishwashers Installed • Wells & Pump Repairs Licensed & Insured State Lic CFC056748

157202

157185

FREE 50/50 SINK

Complete Plumbing Services & Repairs Residential, New Construction and Commercial No Overtime, No Trip Charge No Job Too BIG or Too SMALL. We DO IT ALL!

925-8448

Residential & Commercial

PLUMBING

General Plumbing Services Inc.

Licensed & Insured

10 Years Experience

All Tree Work

157327

FACTORY DIRECT GRANITE COUNTERTOPS

VE SA $$ $

TREES

PROMPT

• Over 13 years experience

NATURAL AND ENGINEERED PRODUCTS AVAILABLE

941-955-4888

than Dewey RESPONSE NaPainting COMPANY

• Dog Walking

KITCHEN/BATH REMODELING

Team Up With Classifieds

Free Estimate 941-922-3996

• Pet Sitting

941-888-2988 FREE ESTIMATES rainscapefl.com

Make Your Phone Ring

157191

156643

100

$

Free Estimates Porches • Pool Cages •Lanais Pinellas: (727) 424-0220 Manatee: (941) 928-9112 www.screenandmore.com

15783

Painting & Pressure Cleaning

PET SERVICES

20 any irrigation

ScreenRe-screen ProsSpecialists and More

PAINTING

Faulkner’s

157833

SCREENING 157475

I.C.C 361253 • DOT 812623 FL MOVERS #IM1102

Fully Insured

State Licensed Contractor #CCC057066

LOCAL - LONG DISTANCE FREE ESTIMATES

“Quality Workmanship for Over 25 Years”

rain sensors

Joe Murray, Owner

“Will move anything from a couch to a household”

ESTIMATES

A FULL SERVICE IRRIGATION COMPANY

941-228-9850

3673529-01

IRRIGATION

All Work Guaranteed

156713

157372 157326

A Private Company Serving the Palmer Ranch Area Since 2007

LARGE COLOR SELECTION

38 Years Experience

MO V I N G

Operator/Owner

Watching your home when you’re away

GULF GATE ROOFING INC.

157485

Lic. & Ins.

LEAKY ROOF?

15783

373-9299

158177

CURT’s Lawn Service

Dave McCarthy

• Installation • Access Control • Maintenance • System Design

OFF repair over

941-587-1305

MOVERS

FAST SAME-DAY SERVICE

$

Licensed & Insured Kim Bachert

LAWN CARE

157829

3687676-01

Sarasota Gate & Access

15% OFF

OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE TILE & WOOD FLOORS

Classified Ads Bring Results • 941-955-4888

HOME SERVICES

157824

COMPLETE REMODELING KITCHENS & BATHROOMS www.Bacherts.com

156632

(941) 365-3551 • premiertransportllc@verizon.net

LICENSED & INSURED. Ask for Doug.

REMODELING/HOME IMPROVEMENT

HAULING PREMIER TRANSPORT, LLC “Specialty Items Transported” custom motorcycles expensive artwork unique furniture pieces, etc. Licensed & Insured

After

Roofs | Homes | Driveways | Sidewalks Pool Cages & Decks| Residential | Commercial

ƚŽƉϮďŽƚƚŽŵƉƌĞƐƐƵƌĞǁĂƐŚŝŶŐ͘ĐŽŵ

30 Years Experience References Licensed/Insured

941-349-4455

157832

954-1878

Repairs, Replacement, Home Improvements, Kitchens, Baths, Pressure Washing, Painting, Rescreening, etc.

941-275-0712

379-9070

24 HR. EMERGENCY SERVICE

POWER WASHING

GLENN KROECKER

“Anything around the home Honey can do.”

Reg. Price $ 27900 Installed

Fast Quality Service at Reasonable Rates Ins./Lic. #RF0048866

$20.00 OFF

ANY SERVICE W/THIS COUPON

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24A

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

25A

A A Very Very Blessed Blessed Holiday Holiday to to You You and and Yours Yours Over Over $300,000,000 $300,000,000 SOLD SOLD

Laurel LaurelOak OakGolf Golf& &Country CountryClub Club

Sandy Sandy and and Jerry Jerry Strom Strom

Magnificent Magnificent6BR/ 6BR/66½ ½bath bathfamily familyhome homeon on¾ ¾acres acreswith withattention attentionto todetail detaileveryeverywhere. where.Marble Marblefloors, floors,extensive extensivecrown crownmolding, molding,solid solidcherry cherrycabinets cabinetsthroughout, throughout, billiard billiardroom roomand andmore more MLS#4103753 MLS#4103753$1,349,000 $1,349,000

Realtors Realtors

Recently Recently Sold Sold

Sandy: Sandy: 941.650.8297 941.650.8297 Jerry: Jerry: 941.650.8294 941.650.8294 JerryStrom@michaelsaunders.com JerryStrom@michaelsaunders.com www.StromRealtors.com www.StromRealtors.com

Windward Windward Passage Passage 3Bedroom, 3Bedroom,33bath, bath,end endunit. unit.

SOLD SOLD$945,000 $945,000

Tortuga Tortuga

22Bedroom, Bedroom,22Bath Bathfurnished furnishedcondo condo MLS#A3996313 MLS#A3996313Off Offered eredat at$419,000 $419,000

Recently Recently Sold Sold

Recently Recently Sold Sold

8037 8037Midnight MidnightPass PassRd. Rd.

723 723 Norsota NorsotaWay Way

KeyWest Weststyle stylewaterfront waterfronton onnorth northend endof ofSiesta SiestaKey Key Siesta SiestaKey KeyBayfront Bayfronthome homewith with90’ 90’dock dockand andboathouse boathouse Key SOLD SOLD$2,590,000 $2,590,000 SOLD SOLD$1,640,000 $1,640,000

...SOLD

...Because ...Because “We “We Start Start With With Listening” Listening” SIESTA SIESTA KEY KEY -- BEACHWAY BEACHWAY CONDO CONDO $419,000 $419,000

The The Ethel Ethel Lovelace Lovelace Group Group

Call Call us us to to discuss discuss similar similar available available properies properies

2/2, 2/2, 1,200 1,200 square square foot foot top top floor floor condo condo directly directly across across from from Siesta Siesta Key Key Beach!

Beach!

Turnkey Turnkey furnished. furnished. Large Large Bedrooms Bedrooms with with walk-in walk-in closets. closets. Spacious Spacious living living area. area.

Screened Screenedlanai. lanai.Carport.

Carport.Elevator Elevatorin inbuildbuilding. ing. Heated Heated pool. pool. Monthly Monthly rentals. rentals. Close Close to toeverything. everything.Estate Estatesale sale--Bring Bringan anoffer! offer!

MLS#A4107356 MLS#A4107356

WATERFRONT WATERFRONT LOTS LOTS $199,000 $199,000 Per Per Lot Lot

19,000 19,000 square square foot foot lots lots -- each each with with 100 100 feet feet of of waterfront! waterfront! Minutes Minutes to to the the Gulf.

Gulf.

Gated Gated community. community. Build Build your your dream dream home. home. Docks Docks already already in in place. place. Key Key West West style stylehomes homesrequired. required.

MLS#A4101894 MLS#A4101894

Ethel Ethel & & Harvey Harvey Lovelace Lovelace 941.586.7390 941.586.7390 Kaitlin Kaitlin Kuhn Kuhn 941.400.7861 941.400.7861 www.SarasotaUSA.com www.SarasotaUSA.com

Esplanade Esplanade by

by Siesta Siesta Key Key

Enjoy Enjoyresort resortstyle styleamenities amenitieswithin withinaavery very short shortdistance distanceto toSiesta SiestaBeach, Beach,shopping, shopping, restaurants, restaurants,and andmore morein inthis thisfabulous fabulous3/2 3/2villa villa MLS#A4108668 MLS#A4108668 $475,000 $475,000

Your Your Resident Resident Siesta Siesta Key Key Realtors Realtors~~~ ~~~

The The Crescent Crescent Siesta Siesta Key Key

Direct DirectGulf GulfBeach BeachFront Frontin inthis thisfabulous fabulous 33bedroom, bedroom,33bath bathunit unitin inthe thenewest newest beachfront beachfrontcomplex complexon onSiesta SiestaKey. Key. Contemporary Contemporarystyling. styling.Turnkey Turnkeyfurnished. furnished.

MLS#A4105740 MLS#A4105740 $2,249,000 $2,249,000

Harbour Harbour Towne Towne Yacht Yacht Club Club

Every Everyboater’s boater’sdream. dream.Easy Easywalking walkingdisdistance tanceto toSiesta SiestaBeach Beachwith withits itsown owndeeded deeded 43’ 43’boat boatdock, dock,this thisbright brightand andspacious spacious3/3 3/3 townhome townhomeaff affords ordsthe theideal idealisland islandlifestyle. lifestyle.

MLS#A4106874 MLS#A4106874 $699,000 $699,000

/ObserverGroup

KEY KEYSOLUTIONS SOLUTIONSREAL REALESTATE ESTATEGROUP GROUP www.SiestaKeyNow.com www.SiestaKeyNow.com

Bob Bob Ruiz Ruiz~~941.544.3299 941.544.3299 RobertRuizRR@aol.com RobertRuizRR@aol.com

Harbour Harbour Towne Towne Yacht Yacht Club Club Rarely Rarelyavailable. available.Beautifully Beautifullyfurnished furnished 3/3 3/3with with22master mastersuites. suites.2,300+ 2,300+sq sqft., ft., just justaashort shortwalk walkto toSiesta SiestaBeach.

Beach.

Deeded Deededdock dockfor for35’ 35’boat. boat.

MLS#A4105565 MLS#A4105565 $799,000 $799,000

5224 5224 Winding Winding Way Way

Contemporary, Contemporary,newer newer44bedroom, bedroom, 33bath bathhome homewith withscreened screenedterrace terrace overlooking overlookingcourtyard courtyardpool. pool.

An Aneasy easywalk walkto toSiesta Siestapublic publicbeach beach MLS#A4106052 MLS#A4106052 $675,000 $675,000

Sheri Sheri LasleyRuiz LasleyRuiz~~941.400.4186 941.400.4186 SheriLasley@aol.com SheriLasley@aol.com

159221

Like Us on Facebook!

Join Us on Siesta Key...

BOB & SHERI RUIZ Happy Happy Holidays!

Holidays!

26A

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

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

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

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

Orange Blossom Tower, 1330 Main St. #3

Betsy

de MANIO

Realtor®

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

    

3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths, 3954 sq. ft. in historic building 2 Private Terraces with 950+ sq. ft. of Outdoor Living Space Private entry lobby & 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

1214 Sea Plume Way - New Listing

 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

S

1-4pm , y a und

 Canalfront home, no bridges to the 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

$799,000

MLS# A4109444

$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

Ogilvie

Kim & Michael

Over one-half billion dollars in career sales

Quiet resolve. Remarkable results.

• Precise target marketing • Unrivaled market knowledge • Strategic international exposure

941.376.1717 • www.SarasotaFineHomes.com • KimOgilvie@michaelsaunders.com 1801 Main Street • Sarasota, Florida 34236

941.376.1717

www.SarasotaFineHomes.com

KimOgilvie@michaelsaunders.com 1801 Main Street Sarasota, Florida 34236

BEAUTIFULLY LOCATED ON BAY POINT DRIVE

In one of Sarasota’s most exclusive West-of-the-Trail neighborhoods this ½ acre property is only moments from downtown Sarasota. The magnificent 2008 built home enjoys spectacular deep water harborage and exquisite views of the Bay and city skyline framed by the untouched splendor of Selby Gardens and the iconic Ringling Bridge. $7,995,000

HIDDEN HARBOR BAY FRONT

This sparkling jewel with 150 ft. of deep water boating enjoys a private setting on the exclusive North end of Siesta Key. Rich wood accents, state-ofthe-art Chef’s kitchen, large living areas, 40 ft. wall of floor to ceiling glass, 4 bedrooms and an office, media room, 1500 sq ft. of bonus space, exercise room, elevator, infinity edge pool and 3-car garage. $5,700,000

One of the top teams in the Siesta Key Office. Put our combined 46 years of experience to work for YOU! Everything is in full bloom... Ahhh, winter in Florida!!!

Embrace the romance of the heart & soul of “Old Florida”. Enter this original Spanish-Mediterranean style homes, built c. 1925, through the tropical screened front porch that also serves as seasonal dining & entertaining space. Warm heart pine floors shine in the living room, adjacent to the library/study. On the right is a fireplace and tall windows with antique swinging curtain rods, Continue beneath an archway into the formal dining room with lots of natural light & high ceilings. The bedroom wing includes 2 bedrooms & bathroom with jetted tub. Another arch leads to the kitchen, adorned by a large hand-painted tile mural, extensive Mexican tile & antique architectural components – & brand new stainless steel refrig! Beyond the kitchen is a breakfast room embellished by Spanish tiles, good storage, & flat screen TV, &then a lg utility room.

Off the kitchen is a raised tile terrace with ramp access, flanked by the most gorgeous bougainvillea!

A short breezeway leads to the studio apartment with bathroom skylight & views of gardens & massive oaks.

Hedgerow landscaping encloses the property for a wonderful sense of privacy & peacefulness. Various gardens offer a charming pastoral tranquility for morning coffee in a large veranda beneath grand oaks & queen palms.

Meandering the numerous stone paths, you’ll discover the art gallery (or office, exercise-yoga or hobby room), fountains, 2 small pools, an outdoor shower cabana, & a small art studio amid 2 acres of butterfly serenity, gardener’s paradise. MLS#A4109668 $375,000

Call Susan Keal at 941.320.1689 or Lee Byron at 941.350.5542 Sarasota.com/RealEstate

Stephanie Church Stephanie Church 941.724.5448 941.724.5448

StephanieChurch@michaelsaunders.com StephanieChurch@michaelsaunders.com

171 WHITTIER DRIVE, SARASOTA 1425 Westway Road, Sarasota

Experience tropical tranquility on a spectacular scale from this Discover an exclusive waterfront lifestyle, beautifully poised on Siesta Sanderling beachfront estate, poised on almostThis two acres with Key within the only gated Gulf front community in Sarasota. oversized 201 ofbetween pristine beach.

With the Gulf of Mexico on one lot ft. rests thewalking Gulf of Mexico and tranquil Heron Lagoon side Heron Lagoon on the other, Club the property is composed withand 89 feet of water frontage.

The Sanderling residents enjoy beach access, private cabanas hugging the and shoresguest of the Gulf, a all ofdeeded a main residence, beachfront cottage house, 15 slip bayside marina, three tennis courts and a vibrant social calendar. designed for coastal living.

www.StephanieChurch.com www.StephanieChurch.com

If you have often imagined living by the shore, this magnifiPositioned on Westway Drive, arguably the most prestigious address in cent beachfront theanultimate Sarasota, this expansiveproperty level grassedoffers lot features impressivesetting 96 feet to make your dream reality.

Fullviews Gulfover ofthe Mexico willNew be experiof water frontage,awith sweeping Gulf of views Mexico and enced from each of its three masterfully constructed Pass. In addition to the new seawall, a boat dock is already permitted and levels, can be 4,100 customized your watercraft needs,iswhile private deededprivate with sq.toft.meet of living area that both serenely beach accessto invites to relaxof onthe the pristine sands of Lido Beach. yet open theyou beauty seascape.

MLS# A3986618 $2,000,000

MLS#A4109922 $7,450,000

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

MLS# A3993117 $2,800,000

MLS#A4101700 $4,495,000

159226

8306 SANDERLING SARASOTA 7445 Sanderling Road,RD, Sarasota

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

Judie Berger

27A

Trust THE REALTOR WITH PROVEN RESULTS “Our friends and neighbors were absolutely astounded at Judie’s professionalism, creativity and knowledge of what needed to be done — from staging the house for

8254 Roseburn Court

$1,999,000 5831 Riegels Harbor Road

$1,895,000 449 Canal Road

sale to identifying the right buyers.

$1,295,000

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

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

For the boat and auto enthusiast — deep water 50’ dock and 6+ car garage. Gated, near Siesta Beach. 4 beds/4.5 baths, pool.

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

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

OPEN HOUSE 12/27, 1-4PM

UNDER CONTRACT IN 3 DAYS

SOLD

We highly recommend Judie to anyone who is serious about buying or selling homes... She is fabulous.”

-Walter and Marian Kristlibas Siesta Key, FL and Pearl River, NY

526 Treasure Boat Way

$789,000 4034 Roberts Point Road

Siesta Key canal front home, oversized fenced corner lot, metal roof bamboo floors, solar heated pool, large pool deck and a boat dock.

LP $3,095,000

Sailboat water with Bay & Bayou docks. 5,265 sq ft under air.

Rare 2/3 acre lot, 5beds/4.5baths. Guest house, 6+ car garage.

10 Lands End Lane

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 $849,560

Deeded deep water 32’ dock - no bridges to Gulf, deeded beach access, Siesta Key 3 beds/2 baths/2-car garage, Koa wood floors.

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.

One of the top teams in the Siesta Key Office.

Put our combined 46 years of experience to work for YOU!

West of the Trail Vintage Charm!

D!

CE EDU

CE R

PRI

HERITAGE OAKS

Nestled in the gated golfing community of Heritage Oaks, this inviting 2B/2Ba + den unit is an open plan end unit overlooking a peaceful pond and the 14th Tee. Front porch is a screened lanai, and leads to a roomy foyer. Spacious great room w/volume ceilings. Kitchen features granite counters, a breakfast bar overlooking the dining and living space, light wood cabinets, tile floor, stainless steel Maytag refrigerator, and Bosch dishwasher. Movein condition! Furnishings are available. One-car garage offers additional space for bikes, toys, or seasonal items.

MLS#A4104375 $197,000

Call Susan Keal at 941.320.1689 or Lee Byron at 941.350.5542 Sarasota.com/RealEstate

1715 Prospect Street

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

$869,000

etsy

B MANIO de

Anthony Aveni, PA

Realtor®

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

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

BEST DEALS ON SIESTA KEY Twin Oak Pond

Condo at the Beach Way

Shirley Dabringhaus Broker

Selling Sarasota Since 1988 Ich spreche Deutsch

Je parle Français

941.587.9288

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

2100 Constitution Blvd.

Sarasota, FL 34231

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

2015 Five Star Real Estate Agent - 8x Recipient

159231

shirleydab@comcast.net www.sarasotasunset.com

28A

SARASOTA OBSERVER

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

SPG

Schemmel Property Group

REPRESENTING

Most Amazing Properties

Siesta Key 4087 Higel Avenue $4,145,000

Sapphire Shores 374 S. Shore Drive $12,500,000

Laurel Oak 2895 Dick Wilson Drive $1,849,999

Summer Cove 1660 Summerhouse Lane, 603 $1,479,000

The Founders Club 9236 McDaniel Lane $1,249,000

Orchid Trace 6590 Wild Orchid Lane $1,195,000

Indian Beach Indian Beach Drive $995,000

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.

The Oaks Clubside | 931 Blue Heron

$3,450,000

159218

facebook.com/schemmelpropertygroup

Diversions YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

A&E

H&G

Art groups honor their greatest helpers.

PAGE 2

BLACK TIE

Three things: Home for the holidays PAGE 6

BLACK TIE | LOOKING BACK

JFCS Gala PAGE 11

by Stephanie Hannum | Diversions Managing Editor

Nicaj, Xiomara Velez, Mimoza as, Naom Th Hope Russo, Tara aj at Nic a an Alv d dia Morgan an n's me Wo r’s nte Ce er nc Moffitt Ca on he Cancer Awareness Lunc b. 12.

“Cure on the Runway” Fe

Montana Ta plinger wit h her daugh ter, Annabelle at Children First’s “Flip Flops & Fa sh ion” Oct. 3 0.

Movie star Richard Dreyfuss hid in shame as his Aunt Gertrude was delivered in handcuffs to Ringling College of Art and Design’s “An Evening at the Avant Garde: The Swinging Sixties” March 22.

best of BLACK TIE Jennifer Horiuchi and Tracy DeRamo at American Cancer Society’s Cattle Baron’s Ball April 11.

As the 2014 social calendar comes to a close, Black Tie reviews the year in pictures.

Alex Mahadevan models the Business Observer’s suit at Art Center Sarasota’s iConcept March 28.

File photos

Katie Raymond, Maks Lototskyy and Sarah Haworth at Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy (SMART)’s “Great Gatsby” Interactive Dinner Jan. 24.

Susan Jones and Katie Jones at Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation’s Key to the Cure Oct. 14.

BLACK TIE COVER STORY CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

Merrill Bonder and Pat Martin at YMCA Foundation of Sarasota’s Going for the Gold gala May 3.

2

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: XMAS REFLECTIONS

by Nick Reichert | A&E Editor

UNSUNG HEROES During this holiday season, Sarasota’s arts institutions recognize the people and events that helped make their 2014 special.

THE RINGLING

One of the most overlooked groups at the Ringling is the volunteer docents (above), who are often the public face of the institution for most visitors. In the last year alone, the number of visitors served on docent-led tours was approximately 104,912. The corps of 116 volunteer docents gave 10,013 individual tours to the Ringling’s patrons with an estimated $369,465 worth of revenue generated.

WESTCOAST BLACK THEATRE TROUPE

Courtesy

The corps of The Ringling’s volunteer docents are just one of the numerous valued yet overlooked components of Sarasota’s arts community.

“Our organization would like to recognize an unsung hero, our stage manager, Juanita Munford.

We are so fortunate to have an extensively experienced professional like Juanita on our team. The Juanita blessing and curse Mumford of being a stage manager is that people only recognize what you do when things go wrong onstage. With Juanita, she has largely flown under the radar because she is so good at her job. During her time with us, she has been an invaluable asset to our artistic director, Nate Jacobs, and all of our guest directors. We hope Juanita knows how

much we respect and appreciate her significant contributions to our continued growth and success.”

— Richard M. Parison Jr., executive director

ART CENTER SARASOTA

“Dotty Terry, volunteer extraordinaire. Her priceless talent for us is her skill in overseeing the over whelming task of coordinating the juried exhibitions. Seven times a year DotDotty Terry ty prepares weeks in advance for receiving day, when more than 300 pieces of artwork from hundreds of artists arrives.

“I also have to give a shoutout to another volZach unteer, Zach GilGilliland liland, emerging artist and former exhibitions coordinator here at the center.

Zach always seems to be here for us whenever we need him to help hang a show, oversee an event, build a podium or give advice. I have truly never met someone so generous with his or her time.”

— Lisa Berger, executive director

E

Live musical performances that Entertain, Engage, and Inspire!

OF SARASOTA SARASOTA

Presents Three Concerts Featuring the Music of Edvard Grieg In Conjunction with the 2015 Grieg Festival in Florida

January 9, 7:30 p.m. u Historic Asolo Theater

Featuring songs based on the poems of Hans Christian Andersen, choral music, and solo piano pieces reflecting Norwegian folklore.

Alan Dunbar, bass-baritone | Gregory Martin, piano | Gloria Musicae Singers OF SARASOTA

January 10, 7:30 p.m. u Historic Asolo Theater

Featuring songs of Norwegian and German poets and piano music, including the celebrated Holberg Suite, Op. 40.

Antonio Pompa-Baldi, piano | Njal Sparbo, bass-baritone | Einar Rottingen, piano

Color gradient January 11,

7:30 p.m. u Historic Asolo Theater

Bring in the New Year with The Pineapple Drop!

Featuring songs of Norwegian poets, piano works from the “Lyric Pieces,” and the “Piano Sonata.”

Antonio Pompa-Baldi, piano | Njal Sparbo, bass-baritone | Einar Rottingen, piano Three rare opportunities to hear both familiar and seldom-heard Grieg compositions performed by some of the world’s finest musical interpreters of his compositions.

Tickets/details 24/7 at www.artistseriesconcerts.org

n Children’s Rides, Games & Prizes at The State Street Midway n Food, Fun & Dancing in the Streets!

Media Sponsors

C O N C E R T TICKETS BY PHONE – DAILY 10A-4P – $25-$45

941-360-7399

12 Noon to 1AM n Downtown Sarasota www.sarasotanewyearsparty.com

ALSO PART OF THE FESTIVAL Lectures, Competitions, and Exhibits Celebrating of the Music of Edvard Grieg • THESE EVENTS ARE FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC •

MUSIC ON FOUR STAGES!

DJ DJs LX8, Doug Deming & The Griswolds Circus Freek Presented by Unisyn & Kensi The Jewel Tones Presented by

Presented by

Presented by

Performances and Exhibit – January 9, 10:30 a.m. – Selby Public Library Competition Finals for Voice and Piano – January 11, 2:00 p.m.

Holley Hall Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center

PARTICIPATING

Complete information at: www.griegfestivalinflorida.org

SPONSORS

Boneshakers Inside

159200

159161

New York Style Pizza

Observer: ¼ page vert. 5” x 8”

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

3

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT SARASOTA OPERA

“Since 2011, the Sarasota Youth Opera program has thrived under the leadership of Ben Plocher, manager of educational activities, and Jesse Martins, Youth Opera muBen Plocher sic director. Mr. Ben and Maestro Jesse, as they are known around the opera house, spearheaded a successful production of Dean Burry’s youth opJesse era adaptation Martins of “The Hobbit.”

Through Mr. Ben and Maestro Jesse’s leadership, young people of the Sarasota community are able to benefit from high-quality music education and take advantage of unique performance opportunities not offered anywhere else in the United States.”

— Victor DeRenzi, maestro and artistic director

RINGLING COLLEGE OF ART & DESIGN

“2014 has been a momentous year for Ringling College. Our students, graduates, faculty and staff continued to win awards and accolades. What really amazes me, however, is Dr. Richard the passion and dedication of the Basch people I get to work with. The best examples are Dr. Richard and Barbara Basch.

In 2014, they gave a $3 million gift to build a new 20,000-squarefoot visual arts center on our campus that will feature our first Barbara glass hot shop, Basch new sculpture, woodworking, metals and ceramics studios.

— Dr. Larry Thompson, president

Asolo Rep apprentice team

ASOLO REPERTORY THEATRE

“Our apprentice team is instrumental in the success of our theater. Nicole Cunningham in the Literary Department provides dramaturgical support in preparation for our season announcement and for all of our rehearsals.

Samantha De La Riva in administration coordinates all needs for artists and the Board of Directors along with the assistance of Tara Foster. Erin Connelly, Moira DeSear, Devon Muko and Becki Zaritsky offer support in rehearsals and run the deck during all of our shows. Charlyn Lane and Hannah Black in Special Events help create dazzling opening-night dinners and holiday parties, and Brittney Biddle in Education in-

troduces Shakespeare to thousands of students across the state.

My assistant, Daniel Kelly, has his eye on all of these operations and helps me appear far more competent than I really am. Our apprentices are an emblem of our mission here at Asolo Rep. They entertain, they engage, and they inspire us all.

— Michael Donald Edwards, producing artistic director

GLORIA MUSICAE

“As a performing organization, there are many moving parts and scads of volunteers that comprise Gloria Musicae. I’d like to highlight one person without whom we wouldn’t be able to present our Glenn performances as Breitzig well as we do: our chorus manager, bass singer and secretary for the board, Glenn Breitzig. He performs all these roles with grace, dignity, incredible efficiency and humor.”

— Joseph Holt, artistic director

Fuzión ‘Behind the Curtain’

FUZIÓN DANCE ARTISTS

“Our Behind the Curtain, a 60-minute open rehearsal series with guest choreographers, is an

invitation to the community to see a work in its early stages as well as dialogue with the choreographers and or collaborators about the creative process. This is a one-of-a-kind experience that allows people with dance knowledge or no experience with dance to come together and have an intimate experience with dance makers and dancers. It compares to seeing a favorite dish being created with basic ingredients from start to oven or grill ready.”

— Leymis Bolaños-Wilmott, co-founder and artistic director

Gianni Damaia and Brett McDowall

THE PLAYERS THEATRE

“One event that did not receive a bunch of attention but will now be making a major impact in the community and beyond is our production of ‘That Wasn’t Me.’ It was the winner of our 2013 play festival. We then fully produced the play in August 2014. ‘That Wasn’t Me’ was written by local playwright Llywelyn Jones.

“It is such a powerful message that resonates with students that Jones made the necessary cuts, and now it is available through EdExplore to Sarasota County Schools. We have our first performance for a Sarasota School of Arts and Science class Jan. 23.

— Michelle Pingel, managing director and CEO

SARASOTA MUSEUM OF ART/SMOA

“What made 2014 memorable for us was the exceptional and overwhelming support of our community in rallying to complete the SMOA building campaign. From January to May 31, art supporters shifted into high gear with gifts from a broad cross-section of our community ranging from two to seven figures, pushing us close to the funding threshold.

“It is so gratifying to feel how our plans to preserve the iconic Sarasota High School building and give it new purpose have struck such a collective chord.

Our community has united around having this noble building serve as the anchor for contemporary art in our region.”

— Wendy Surkis, president

FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE

“One of the biggest highlights from last season was our second Mainstage production of ‘Thurgood.’ From panel discussions to online forums, to matinee high-school performances, to our ‘Pay What You Can’ night, this show united all ages of theater fans. It got everyone talking.

This conversation continued long after the final curtain call and brought an unprecedented show of support from our community. More than 25 community organizations took part in the discussion and celebration of a true hero, Thurgood Marshall, and his everlasting impact on all of our lives. It was very exciting and rewarding to witness a piece of theater live as much off of the stage as it did on it.”

— Nicole Clayton, PR Associate

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DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: COMEBACK ARTIST

g Agents g Results

PHYSICAL

[Art]

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL OF YOU!!

Tropical Retreat in Island Inspired Estate

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Over 5,000 SF of luxurious living space.

4BD/4.5BA, Elevator, Gourmet Kitchen, Library, Family room. Pool & Dockage for large boat on protected dock. Fabulous Bay views. www.529putter.com pahanly@gmail.com $3,495,000 The Hanlys 941.388.2331

THERAPY

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Magnificent Gulf of Mexico views.

3BR/3.5BA, 3,123 SF & 1,529 SF open air balcony. Private Pool/Spa, Elevator, 2.5 Car Garage. Gated & Maintenance Free on 10 acres with 748’ of Pristine Beach. Beautifully $4,200,000 Turn-Key Furnished.

Dennis Kotaska 941.815.6772

BAYFRONT VIEWS

Nick Reichert

Local artist Gay Germain takes comfort in her work after two years of illness and recovery.

PANORAMIC SARASOTA BAY VIEWS

Gay Germain’s artwork has served as her outlet during trying times.

by Nick Reichert | A&E Editor

SARASOTA WATERFRONT Just North of the Ritz Carlton & Downtown tucked within a private, gated enclave of homes on the mainland, resides this stunning 5BR/5.5BA estate. Offering 5BR/5.5BA w/ over 5,000 SF of luxury living space along with an $2,950,000 additional 5,000 + SF non-conforming.

Robert T. Anderson 941. 350.8671

NORTH SIESTA KEY

ON THE BAY

Kitchen

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SARASOTA BAYFRONT incredible Bay front views in this five bedroom, five bath custom built home, “Boaters live the lifestyle” with intracoastal and grand canal harbor access. 5752 square feet under air; 8603 total square feet.

863SiestaKeyCircle.com $3,990,000 Raymond Williams 941.320.5094

Gay Germain arrived at art late in life.

Her thriving professional years were spent on the island of Manhattan, N.Y., as a headhunter for banks in the financial district.

But during the early 1990s the banks experienced a bit of a downturn. Germain seized the moment and took the advice of her husband, Tom, and decided to retire.

When thinking about what to do next, Germain’s thoughts drifted to her childhood. Her father had encouraged his children to go into different careers; while Germain chose finance, her sister became an artist. But she had always felt a pull toward the arts. After retiring, that pull transformed into a purpose.

“When I left finance, I took up art with the energy of a teenager,” says Germain, 71.

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RIVER CLUB Stunning 5BR/4BA with gourmet kitchen, study & bonus rooms w/ built-ins, master suite with private entrance to pool and outdoor living area, spacious 3-car garage, and more!

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SARASOTA FIELD CLUB This magnificent Oyster Bay Estates 5BD/5BA home in an estate setting, features a privateroad entry, Designer Kitchen, and has been completely updated, 3,998 square feet under air, 5,872 SF total.

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Creek Side

DIVERSIONS

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

YourObserver.com

5

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT

Germain's most recent artistic venture is her violin-sculpture fusion piece "Lyrical Lines."

Now she is working again with the same familiar quality and vigor — and making up for lost time. Her current 15-painting series, “Sculpture Garden Conversations,” takes up the entire wall of her expansive home studio.

But perhaps her most vocal re-entry into the Sarasota art community was her violin statue piece she submitted in the Perlman Music Program/Suncoast’s “Art of the Violin” series. The series tasks 20 local artists with the assignment of transforming a violin into a piece of original artwork. Germain’s is a vacuum of black accompanied by her patented curved-wood sculpture style added onto the rear of the violin. According to Germain, it is already receiving advance interest in the silent auction being held in February.

“I don’t want people to look at my work and see other people’s art,” says Germain.

“It’s all my own.”

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She dove into books, attended local art seminars, visited local galleries and sought out artistic mentors, such as Westlake, Calif.-based abstract painter and printmaker Katherine Chang Liu. The first five years as an artist was one of solitude and reflection. Germain didn’t display her work publicly and only showed finished work to those she trusted. She acted like an artistic monk, taking a vow of singular focus and solitude to hone her technique and burrow into the canvas to find her artistic voice.

“Even now, I go to Liu once a year to refresh and to learn,” says Germain.

It wasn’t until a happenstance encounter in 2003 that Germain took her first step to transition from a private artist to a public one. She and her husband had just moved to Sarasota and were having new furniture delivered from Design Impressions Gallery on Palm Avenue.

As the store owners were unpacking the furniture, Germain showed them her work.

They loved it.

From then on, Germain entered juried shows and earned several honors for her abstract paintings and sculptures that play with dark and intense use of color combined with a defiant sense of space and line. She exhibited her work at the State of the Arts Gallery in 2007 and later in galleries in Miami and Denver.

In 2011, Germain battled a staph infection that waylaid her creative output. Her vibrant, naturally lighted studio behind her house transformed from an active art mill into a quiet garage.

“I didn’t know if I was going to be able to get out of bed and didn’t know what the future held,” Germain says. “My work isn’t easy, and it was a challenge just to hold a brush again.”

During her two-year recovery, Germain hoped that she would one day be back in the studio. After regaining her strength she started slowly, and over a six-month period she reintroduced art into her life.

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DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

// HOME&GARDEN

THINGS

by Robert Plunket | Contributing Writer

HOMES FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Homes are synonymous with the holidays, and even the most humble can be a cheery place as December rolls around. The classic look is old-fashioned and traditional, with plenty of room for family, friends and the activities everyone shares. In Florida we’re lucky — those activities can include picnics, boating and a day at the beach. Here’s a trio of Sarasota homes currently on the market that are perfect for reliving family traditions — and creating some new ones.

1. HIGH SPIRITS

1124 N. LAKE SHORE DRIVE

For the lucky family with plenty to be thankful for, here is a gated estate property in prestigious Oyster Bay with so many amenities it’s hard to figure out what to ask for from Santa. There are two pools, one with a swim-up bar, dockage for two boats, a 10-car garage, wine cellar, poker room, home gym — the list goes on and on. The home’s interior has an elegant feeling, with custom molding and paneling, coffered oak ceilings, and in the dining room, silk brocade on the walls. Located directly on the water, the home has 200 feet of bayfront and beautiful views of the mangrove islands.

Priced at $6,495,000. For more information, call Linda Dickinson (350-3304) or Kim Ogilvie (376-1717), both of Michael Saunders & Co.

l Photos courtesy of Michae

Saunders & Co.

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DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

7

// HOME&GARDEN

2. COUNTRY CHRISTMAS 22915 FULLER ROAD

Located east of the interstate, this home was built in 2007 but has the look of an old-fashioned Southern plantation. It’s set on five acres of wooded land, with a picturesque creek and plenty of privacy. Inside you’ll find four bedrooms and three baths, in a generous 4,856 square feet. The two-story living room features a dramatic stone fireplace

— perfect for hanging your stockings — and virtually every room is warmed up with wood paneling.

Extra-large presents can be accommodated in the separate outbuilding (60 feet by 75 feet) that comes with the property.

Priced at $1,199,900. For more information, call Greg Van Natter of Premier Sotheby’s at 730-1999.

Photos courtesy of Coldwell Banker

3. GOOD THING, SMALL PACKAGE 5033 EASTCHESTER DRIVE Cozy charm is the hallmark of this recently updated three-bedroom home in the museum area. At just 1,523 square feet, it’s perfect for a young couple or retirement retreat.

The home’s vintage feel is very much intact, but all the modern conveniences are there, including a crisp, efficient kitchen and newer plumbing

Photos courtesy of Premier Sotheby’s

and electrical. There are wood floors, naturally, and lots of period details, including built-in storage in the master bedroom. There’s a lanai out back that would be perfect for a tropical holiday dinner, Sarasota-style.

Priced at $449,000. For more information, call David Jennings of Coldwell Banker at 650-7354.

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TRIFECTA TRIFECTA Three in a row . . .

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DIVERSIONS

My Realty Company 438-A St Armands Circle Sarasota FL 34236 www.myrealtycompany.com

Broker Owner Luxury Home Specialist ABR, ABRM, CRS, CRB

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DIVERSIONS

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DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: REVIEWS

DANCE // ‘La Fille mal Gardée’ Sarasota Ballet gave us the best present of the holiday season with its performance of Sir Frederick Ashton’s masterpiece, “La Fille mal Gardée.” With its intricate costumes, elaborate sets, live animals and the fabulous cast of Sarasota Ballet dancers performing to live music directed by Ormsby Wilkins, the reprisal of this threeact ballet was beyond perfect in every way.

This romantic comedy that heartens every person of any age masks the tremendous difficulty in choreography, technique and stamina required of all the dancers on stage. The Sarasota Ballet dancers tackled each move with ease and grace, disguising the demanding technique and strength required for the ballet composed of multiple turns, leaps, jumps and steps, partnered with props and lifts.

What’s more is the fact that “La Fille mal Gardée” is very much a theatrical production that also requires incredible acting skills, which each dancer demonstrated with ease. No one masters comedic acting more than Ricki Bertoni playing the role of Widow Simone, which only emphasizes his role as character principal within the company. Logan Learned also was a hoot as the bumbling Alain, son of Father Thomas, who is betrothed to Lise. Learned made the audience laugh out loud with his red umbrella during a thunderstorm dance.

Principals Kate Honea and Ricardo Rhodes carried the ballet as leads Lise and Colas. These two also demonstrated fine acting skills in their roles, with Lise being conniving with her mother and rude to Alain. Rhodes really was the dashing loverboy and wowed with his technique and strength with barrel turns, pirouettes, fouettés, leaps, multiple double tours en l’air and one-armed overhead lifts (see below). Honea was right on par with

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Rhodes, also flawlessly performing a difficult en dehors and en dedans fouetté turns. The pair also partnered perfectly in their ribbon pas de deux.

Other highlights of this extremely enjoyable ballet were the Cockerel (Alex Harrison) and his chickens (Jessica Cohen, Rachel Goldberg, Lily Howes and Ryoko Sadoshima) that strutted on stage in full head-to-toe chicken costumes.

And Bertoni donned clogs with Sara Scherer, Ellen Overstreet, Christine Peixoto (who was nice to see back on stage after being out for a year with an injury) and Kristianne Kleine in a humorous clog dance.

— Anna Dearing

ONLINE // One of the hardest lifts in

“La Fille mal Gardée” is the “bum lift,” which is an overhead one-armed lift of Lise sitting on her bottom. Ricardo Rhodes and Kate Honea teach the Observer’s Alex Mahadevan how to execute the “bum lift” in Come At Me Sarasota on ThisWeekinSarasota.com.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! Includes: Cash bar and cash food vendors, free party favor and champagne toast at midnight General Admission: $70 (Oct. 2 – Dec. 30 at noon) At Door: $80 (based on availability)

Courtesy

The Cockerel (Alex Harrison) and his chickens dance in “La Fille mal Gardée.”

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INSIDE: Best of Black Tie PAGE 12

YourObserver.com

Cihan Cobanoglu with Gail and Skip Sack

Dorothy and Sue Jacobson with Rose Chapman

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

Holly and Jay Logan

Photos by Heather Merriman

Benefiting: Jewish Family & Children’s Services of the Suncoast Inc. | Sunday, Dec. 14, at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota

by Heather Merriman | Black Tie Editor The elegant evening began with a social hour in which more than 550 guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres while mingling before dinner. During the program, two videos created by Ringling College students were shown. The first, showing dramatizations of the impact of JFCS services and the second highlighting comments by community leaders including Betty Schoenbaum and Skip Sack, JFCS Board President Dr. Joe Mendels and event Co-Chair Steve Seidensticker.

A new twist this year: instead of a private concert after dinner, guests finished the evening dancing to the Sarasota Orchestra Big Band program conducted by Dirk Meyer and featuring vocalist Michael Andrew. This year’s gala raised a record-breaking amount of more than $700,000 for the organization.

Co- Chairs Lisa Seidensticker and Steve Seidensticker

Edie Chaifetz with Dr. Lewis and Sandra Hanan

Irene Bier and Bernice Thomas

The work that JFCS does in our community is unparalleled.

The agency is making a significant impact in the lives of our neighbors and friends and our community by focusing on teaching selfsufficiency.”

Co-Chairs Scott and Jill Levine

Molly Schechter and Harold Ronson

— Scott Levine, cochair on behalf of fellow co-chairs Jill Levine, Lisa Seidensticker and Steve Seidensticker

MISSION The message of the evening focused on communicating four major areas of JFCS:

AT-RISK CHILDREN HOMELESSNESS PREVENTION VETERANS’ SERVICES SENIORS Natalia and Felipe Cava

Judy Feldman and Hillary Steele

Sandra Krause and Alan Siegel

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

// BLACK TIE: LOOKING BACK

best of BLACK TIE

Paintings • Sculpture Glass • Jewelry 530 Burns Lane in Historic Burns Court

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10am -10pm Monday - Saturday 2pm -10pm Sunday 941.951.0620 530burnsgallery.com

RU H T R

E

OV D L HE

(continued from page 1)

The 2014 season was filled with high-fashion affairs, from famed designer runway shows to many themed events, including all-white parties, Great Gatsby evenings and a fairytale ball. Most importantly, generous philanthropists made this year another great one in supporting what matters most: our local charities. As we say farewell to the 2014 social season, Black Tie reviews the year in pictures.

!

1 1 AN

J

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Natalie Neto and featured guest Sigrid Olsen at Histo ric Spanish Point’s “Seaside Serenity ” luncheon March 19.

Renee Phinney wearing a design made from the pages of fairytale storybooks with designer Eric Cross at Children First’s Fairytale Ball April 26.

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with Special Guest Alberto di Gresy

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DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

13

You could be Home for the Holidays

// BLACK TIE Lauren Johnson, Dawn Allen, Cat herine Bartz, Linne Callahan, Kim Choate, Elena Cassella, Amy Phillips and Rachel Adams at South Florida Museum’s Couture in the Courtyard March 3.

2 Brand New Condos Available Immediately!

nnifer Meshad Elaine Meshad and Je and Northern al at Make -A-Wish Centr es Feb. 27. sh Wi for Florida’s Cooking

Paulo Davis and Michelle Schlossberg at New College of Florida’s Pique Nique sur la Baie April 2.

Two and Three Bedroom Condos starting at $298,000

BE SOCIAL You can see all the events Black Tie covered throughout the year at YourObserver. com, and please share some of your favorite moments with us on social media. facebook.com/ BlackTieObserver

Brandon Stockfi s an Humane Society of d Brad Ward at Sa ty’s Paws on the Ca rasota Countwalk April 17.

@BlckTie @BlackTie_Untied

// CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

• Beautifully Appointed •412Upgraded finishes with $1,199,990 USD Casey Key Road Direct Gulf front home on Casey Key. Short Sale, bank Moen Fixtures and Granite countertops •project.

Fitness Center wants offers. Perfect beach 403 Sunrise Drive $2,395,000 USD Mainland Estate directly on the Bay with Dramatic Views. ® Open every Sunday in March & April, 1-4 PM

Call Brian Maher: PERFORMANCE941.284.5070 YOU CAN COUNT ON Charlotte Hedge, Tom Hedge or Sr., Monica Barth, and Tom Hedge Jr. Debra Thomas: 941.587.6600 941.962.3568 www.HedgeTeam.com tom.hedgejr@sothebysrealty.com for your personal Have a question about new downtown projects—Contact us presentation SERVICE YOU CAN TRUST

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Models open Daily!10 to 5 Sunday’s 12 to 5

3621 North Point Road, PH801 $1,299,500 USD Pristine penthouse with unparalleled views, The Meridian, bayside in the Oaks Preserve offers the essence of luxury and comfort.

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5645 America Drive $1,149,000 USD Amazing Tuscan retreat with endless upgrades. One of the best boating water homes east of 41.

14

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

// BLACK TIE: LOOKING BACK

(continued from page 13) Larry and Vee Chiulli with Victoria Viteri at the 25th annual Catholic Charities Ball Jan. 25.

Dynasty Dance Clubs Get out there and Dance!

Ballroom | Latin | Social Dance Club | Competitive

Liebe and Billy Gamble with Daisy Mae at Donte’s Den Presents: Top Dog Oct. 18.

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EXCEPTIONAL Service EXTRAORDINARY Care Graci and Dennis McGillicuddy at Child Protection Center’s Blue Ties and Butterflies gala April 9.

Christie and James P. Uihlein at Little Owl Charities’ Polo Under the Palms March 8.

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The years fly by, but we can always find time to thank our customers for their continued patronage & wish them a

Very Happy and Prosperous New Year!

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– Janet & Curt Mattson

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DIVERSIONS

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

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// BLACK TIE

A

Vinje Dahl and Ralph Gorenstein at The Circus Arts Conservatory Gala Jan. 24.

B

C

I

H J

D

K

E

F

After Mile 1 Continue on Causeway toKey St. Armands

G

Nora Guenther and Ann Rubenstein at UCP’s Sarasota Exotic Car Fest: Roaring Twenties Party Feb. 22.

Dick and Cornelia Matso n at Conservation Foundatio n of the Gulf Coast’s Palm Ball Fe b. 8.

After Mile 5 Exit N Causeway via Hart’s Landing Causeway Re-enter S Stream Gulfstream to Gulf to

L

After Mile 11 Causeway Re-enter N Landing via Hart’s Finish to Return to || Hwy 41 41 Stream Hwy Gulfstream via Gulf via

M N O

Cherokee Dr

// CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

Nov 28 — Jan 1

Historic Spanish Point

Holly Days

158864

Guests joined The Go Go’s on stage at Forty Carrots Family Center’s Firefly Gala March 29.

Fire and Starlight Family new year’S eve Party dec. 31 6-10 P.m.

Members, $8 — Members’ children, $4 General Public, $10 — Children, $5

Mangrove Lights

December 26 Historic Buildings and Mangroves are open Decorated and Lighted Until 9 p.m.

Regular admission applies

• • • • •

Open BOnfires MarshMallOw rOasting Crafts fOr the Kids snOw On white COttage lawn refreshMents

Historic Spanish Point — 337 N. Tamiami Trail — Osprey, FL 34229

159246

www.historicspanishpoint.org/hollydays 941-966-5214

16

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014

// BLACK TIE: LOOKING BACK

(continued from page 15)

Décor standout: Asolo Repertory Theatre Meet Laura Stuart Wood — Asolo Repertory Theatre’s special events manager. She develops the concepts and manages all aspects of Asolo Rep’s special events from start to finish, including everything from negotiating with venues forcontracts, to marLaura Stuart keting and selling Wood tickets, selecting menus, designing décor, executing printed materials and so much more. The 70-plus events that Asolo hosts each season are always a Black Tie favorite, so we talked to Wood to get the story behind her and a few of her most impeccably designed events.

SIGNATURE DRINKS

Starry Night, November 2014 File photos

Wood chose an Island Polynesian theme for Starry Night Dinner I, highlighting the production of “South Pacific.”

"We wanted the room to resemble the original Rainbow Room, but have a slight touch of modern technology. One side of the ballroom featured an entire LED projection of the NYC skyline, so guests felt as if they were on top of Rockefeller Center.

The round dance floor and ceiling chandeliers really tied in the feel of the room."

Celebration on Stage, March 2014

"I was inspired by ROYGBIV, aka the colors of the rainbow, and I wanted to use unconventional materials like yarn and balloons and Skittles to create the effect."

‘VANYA AND SONIA AND MASHA AND SPIKE:’ “The drinks were based on the characters’ personalities. Masha was an actress/cougar who was dating a 28-year-old ‘boy toy,’ Spike.

So we did a passionfruit martini for her and a blowpop martini for him. I think that says everything ...”

Asolo Rep Gala, March 2014

‘Hero:’ “Kryptonite Kocktail because, well, it’s green and looks like Kryptonite. I think the guests even felt stronger after drinking them.”

‘South Pacific:’ “A Navy Grog is a Polynesian rumbased drink that originated in the ’40s/’50s. We had to be authentic with real coconut cups.”

Most of the event themes come from the shows we are producing, or if there is not a prominent theme in the show, I feature an element of the show. — Laura Stuart Wood

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