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The East County observer

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Title:
The East County observer
Uniform Title:
East County observer (Lakewood Ranch, Fla.)
Place of Publication:
Lakewood Ranch, Fla.
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Observer Media Group Inc.
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Weekly
regular
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English
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1 online resource

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Newspapers -- Florida ( lcsh )
Newspapers -- Lakewood Ranch (Fla.) ( lcsh )
Florida ( fast )
Florida -- Sarasota County ( fast )
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Newspapers. ( fast )
newspaper ( sobekcm )
newspaper ( marcgt )
periodical ( marcgt )
Electronic journals ( lcsh )
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27.3950843811035 x -82.4350967407227

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General Note:
Lakewood Ranch’s weekly newspaper since 1998

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University of Florida
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University of Florida
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Copyright , Observer Media Group. Permission granted to University of Florida to digitize and display this item for non-profit research and educational purposes. Any reuse of this item in excess of fair use or other copyright exemptions requires permission of the copyright holder.
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849810432 ( OCLC )
ssj0000854272
ocn849810432
99383299621906597 ( MMS ID )
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ObserverYOU . YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.VOLUME 25, NO. 30 YOUR TOWN‘Sunny lifestyle vibe’ at WatersideNicky Mayforth is ready to bring what she calls a “sunny lifestyle vibe” to Lakewood Ranch with the opening of Marmalade, a salon and clothing boutique, at Waterside. þ  Jenna DiL orenzo and Mayforth (above) opened Marmalade’s rst location in Sarasota in 2001 and opened a location in Siesta Key in 2019, and now Waterside. The duo celebrated the grand opening of Marmalade in Waterside June 15. þ  “ Jenna wanted to do hair, and I wanted to own a clothing boutique and we wanted to have fun,” Mayforth said. “But we also wanted to build a community of people who feel like they’re walking into our living room every time they come in. We’ve achieved that.” Mayforth said it’s incredible to open in Waterside. She said she’s looking forward to getting to know a new community. FREE • THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023Sweet event for Lakewood Ranch Business AllianceThirty members of the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance purchased a golden ticket to a chocolate tasting with the real life Willy Wonka, Norman Love. þ  The s old-out event was held at Norman Love Confections in UTC. “It’s part of a series we call ACES — Activity Centered Events,” said LWRBA Events and Programs Coordinator Janeth Gonzalez (above, right, with Cherri Kessler). “It’s a members-only event at a member’s business.” Love shared his experiences from “stumbling into the business” to creating a line of artisan chocolates for Godiva. Members sampled white chocolate with a key lime pie ganache, Tahitian caramel with vanilla, and an intense dark chocolate made with cocoa beans from Ghana. þ  Lakewood Ranch’s weekly newspaper since 1998EAST COUNTY A+EDay dreaming in color. PAGE 12A File photo Manatee County Commissioner Vanessa Baugh says one of her proudest moments in oce was breaking ground on the new Lakewood Ranch Library.Liz Ramos Dogs await the opportunity to meet their potential new owners. Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue has a meet-and-greet pavilion for people to spend time with the dogs to get to know them. Nate’s Honor heads into tail-end of its $12 million project. SEE PAGE 2ABudget focuses on roadsManatee County’s acting administrator recommends $2.1 billion budget. SEE PAGE 3A Vanessa Baugh resigns her Manatee County commissioner post at midterm to concentrate on family concerns. SEE PAGE 8AEnd of the political roadPlace to pet potential poochLesley Dwyer Liz Ramos Small packages, big eventPAGE 2B

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2A EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 rfrntttbrbrrfrnttbrbrrrffr brbrfffbrfrffrbrfbrbrffrr brrffrffrbrfrrfrbrfr ffrrrffffrrrrnrff rffrrrtfr‘r’rffrfrfrr’ frr‘r’“’’rrff’’’ Stores Hours: Mon-Sat 9-9, Sun 11-6 60 MONTHS FINANCING*rfrfnfrnrr SOUTH SARASOTA tbtb b NORTH SARASOTA b ‘ ‘t’ BRADENTON “ ” ELLENTON t’’ ”•• VENICE tt–r ’t‘b PORT CHARLOTTE b—– ” ’ NOW OPEN! ” •–– $ $ 1399 1399 99 99 ” ”•–”–” $ $ 599 599 99 99 $50 OFFANY PURCHASE OVER $499$100 OFFANY PURCHASE OVER $999$400 OFFANY PURCHASE OVER $3999$200 OFFANY PURCHASE OVER $1999$500 OFFANY PURCHASE OVER $4999$300 OFFANY PURCHASE OVER $2999 ” ”•””– ” $ $ 899 899 99 99 r r • r“– $ $ 399 399 99 99 •••” •••” 401577-1 LIZ RAMOS SENIOR EDITORAnyone who considers adopting a dog from Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue will have the opportunity to spend time getting to know the dog first. The nonprofit’s new meet-andgreet pavilion gives people a chance to play with their potential pup. The outdoor pavilion has four caged-in small areas and one larger one. It also has ceiling fans, water fountains and water bottle fillers, and a bathroom. There will be WiFi available across the nonprofit’s grounds so people can fill out adoption paperwork as they are playing with the dogs in the pavilion. “If somebody sees a dog they like, we can bring them in here and they can spend quality time (together),” said Rob Oglesby, the development director of Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue. “This is going to be used a ton. This section right here is going to be big for the adoptions.” At least 20 dogs were able to meet their new owners in the meet-andgreet pavilion June 10. The meet-and-greet pavilion is the newest complete part of the rescue’s Journey Home Capital Cam paign, which is an expansion of the nonprofit’s facilities and services. Construction continues on the new 23,000-square-foot welcome and education center, which will include a veterinary clinic, parvo and maternity ward, education center, a cat room with “catios,” event center, and kitchen. The improvements also include a two-bedroom apartment that can be used for students on a veterinary externship or possibly an employee. The seven catios are screened-in areas with ceiling fans so the cats can be inside or outside. People will be able to sit in the cat room and play with the cats. Once complete, the cat room will be able to house 60 cats. The event center will give the nonprofit opportunities to host birthday parties, weddings, its summer camp and other events and activities. Oglesby said a weeklong camp is being hosted twice this summer, but with the expansion project expected to be completed by the end of the year or during the first quarter of next year, Nate’s will be able to expand the weeklong camps to dates all summer. The event center has a partition to be able to make the center into two rooms or one large room. It also leads to a 26-by-52-foot covered patio. The welcome and education center also will have a catering kitchen. Outside the welcome and education center are nine cottages that are close to completion. Hurricane Ian destroyed two of the new cottages. Oglesby said once the cottages are complete, the nonprofit will have 17, allowing Nate’s to care for more animals. Nate’s Honor has been working on the now $12 million expansion since 2018, when the nonprofit announced the project. The rescue broke ground in 2019. Oglesby said it’s been a long pro cess, but he’s excited to see it coming together. “I’m here every day, so it doesn’t look like it’s coming together because I’ve seen it moving at a snail’s pace, but if you leave and come back, it’s amazing,” he said. “If you were here three weeks ago, (the meet-andgreet pavilion) was not here.” Oglesby said although the proj ect has taken longer than expected to complete, he’s relieved to have it done in phases. The rescue completed its approx imately 5,000-square-foot intake building in October 2021 followed by its 4,300-square-foot training facility in January 2022. Since then, adoptions have been taking place in the training facility until the welcome and education center opens. “It’s been the perfect storm of everything that could go wrong has gone wrong, but everything happens for a reason as well,” Oglesby said. “Imagine if we had a 23,000-squarefoot building, 17 cottages, and two almost 5,000-square-foot buildings handed to us all at once. We would have drowned.”A meet-and-greet pavilion is the newest addition to Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue’s $12 million expansion.Meet and greet ... your dog COMPLETED WORK Approximately 5,000-squarefoot intake building that includes an area for animals to be vaccinated and tested before being grooms, 42 kennels so dogs can be isolated, a cat isolation area, food pantry, kitchen, laundry and surgical suite 4,300-square-foot training facility that includes a puppy training room, oce space, observation room and a room set up like a home to help dogs adjust to a home setting Walking area that includes a quarter-mile loop around a lake with a fountain and pergolas and benches as a resting area Shaded dog runs where trainers can have playgroups for dogs Bone shaped pool Meet-and-greet pavilionIN PROGRESS Work on the last nine cottages Construction of the 23,000-square-foot welcome and adoption center that will include a veterinary clinic, parvo and maternity ward, cat room, education and community center, a two-bedroom apartment and possibly a Belgian wae and ice cream store. BY THE NUMBERS$12 MILLION Cost of expansion $9.3 MILLION Amount raised MILE Distance around the pond for volunteers to walk the dogs 120 Parking spots after construction 23,000 Square footage of welcome and adoption center 4,000 Square footage of training center 5,000 Square footage of intake building 8 Number of acres on the property 17 Number of animal cottages after construction 120 Dogs the rescue can house after the project is complete 60 Cats the rescue can house after the project is complete Rob Oglesby, the development director of Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue, says the rst stop in the 23,000-square-foot welcome center will be the lobby before people head to the cat room, education center, veterinary clinic and more. Work continues on the 23,000-squarefoot welcome and education center at Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue.Photos by Liz RamosWith construction on the expansion getting closer to completion, the nonprot will be able to provide various services for dogs and their new owners including adoption, veterinary services and training.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 3A LESLEY DWYER STAFF WRITERIt was just under a year ago when Manatee County commissioners approved the Fiscal Year 2023 budget, noting that the emphasis was heavily placed on roads and parks. When Acting Manatee County Administrator Lee Washington presented his recommended $2.1 billion FY 2024 budget to commissioners last week, not much has changed. Once again, a growing Mana tee County, which now has more than 412,703 residents (per Census Reporter), has made roads and parks the top priorities. Of the recommended $2.1 billion budget, $492.5 million is targeted for road expansion projects. Another $89.2 million will go toward park facilities. Washington told commissioners his recommended budget places a high priority on public safety, infrastructure and services for citizens. Other main priorities in the budget include $190 million to run the Sher iff’s Office and $23.1 million for Public Safety. The county has budgeted $66.1 million in building improvements and has set aside $9 million for salary increases. While that total budget amount is under the FY 2023 approved budget of $2,358,762,650, Commissioner Vanessa Baugh said it likely will surpass the previous year’s budget amount after the county can accurately determine the amount it will receive from property taxes. The assessment of property values is due by July 1, with an estimated 17.5% increase in home values over last year. “(The property appraiser’s office) is almost always very conservative in that figure, so when the property appraiser announces the actual figure on July 1, at that point, we will truly know how much money we have for the budget this coming year that will start Oct. 1,” Baugh said. “Is it more money than what was projected before? It generally is, and it could be $4 to $10 million more that we can sit back and come up with some projects that we’d like to do, but were afraid we couldn’t afford in this (recommended) budget.” After the property appraisal figures are released, Washington will present commissioners with a proposed budget. Final approval of the budget is scheduled for Sept. 19. Two public hearings will be held in September that will focus on the budget. The new budget takes effect on Oct. 1, which begins the fiscal year. Commissioners still can vote down or pull items from the proposed budget. Commissioners also can add items that weren’t recommended by the county administrator. Here is a look at some of the priorities in the budget. ROAD PROJECTS FUNDEDBesides the major road projects, the county still has to maintain and make its existing roadways safer. The recommended budget will pro vide Public Works with $87.9 million in 2024 for continued road maintenance to keep up with the growing usage, including the road resurfacing and sidewalk repair programs in the unincorporated areas of the county. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Manatee County’s population increased by an estimated 7.4% from April 2020 to July 2022. Additional transportation improvement requests include “Next Signal” guide signs that help motor ists know what crossroad is coming up. Other improvements include speed management and multimodal safety measures at intersections and on thoroughfares. Then, of course, come the major road projects. “As far as the budget (in East County), we’re in pretty good shape,” Baugh said. “We’ve got Lorraine Road, Upper Manatee Road and Fort Hamer (road improvement projects) all in the budget.” All of those projects are included in the FY 2024-2028 Capital Improvement Plan, along with extensions for Lena Road and 44th Avenue East and an intersection improvement at Players Drive and Lorraine Road. Lena Road will be extended south of 44th Avenue to Landfill Road. Lorraine will expand to four lanes from State Road 64 to 59th Avenue East, and Upper Manatee River Road will expand to four lanes north of S.R. 64 to the Fort Hamer Bridge.PARKS IMPROVEMENTS COMINGWhile Premier Park doesn’t have a lot of line items on the 2023-24 budget, four major projects are included in the CIP—locker rooms for the sports campus, a pickleball and racket center, a soccer multipurpose building and a 50-meter swimming pool. “Premier is going to stick by the word ‘premier.’ It’s going to be the best of the best,” Baugh said. Under the recommended CIP, $10.4 million goes to the pool and $3.2 million to the pickleball and racket center in 2025. The soccer multi-purpose building was previously funded for $2.2 million and plans are underway. “We’re going in stages (at Premier Park), and right now, we’re in the design stage. It’s about 30-40% at this point,” Baugh said. “When recess is over, there will be a vote as to whether or not to go ahead and finish up the design and start with the pickleball courts first.” Set to open on the complex in September, the Lakewood Ranch Library will add $437,024 to the budget for operating costs. The $17.7 million it cost to build was already funded, and three custodian positions at a cost of $195,676 were forward funded from the last adopted budget. As Premier Park continues to introduce new facilities, Lakewood Ranch Park is due for an update. Manatee County Sports and Lei sure Services asked for $85,000 to upgrade the three full-size basketball courts on site. “(The courts) are seeing signs of aging. They have the old gooseneck style goals, so we would upgrade the goals and address safety concerns with the cracking courts,” Deputy Director Molly White said. “Years ago, we did the tennis courts. The pickleball courts are getting ready to be resurfaced, so this will finish out (the hard surfaces of) that park.” The outdated gooseneck posts, double rims and plastic fan-shaped backboards will be replaced with full-size, clear, rectangular back boards with breakaway rims. White also requested $66,768 to add four golf carts to the department’s fleet, one of which would go to Lakewood Ranch Park so attendants can get to and from the athletic fields faster during events. A shade structure and “destination playground” are included in the recommended CIP. Destination playgrounds are worth traveling for, so they draw more visitors than the average neighborhood playground. A nearby example is the circusthemed playground at Payne Park in Sarasota. While commissioners are on recess until the third week in July, the property appraiser’s office will release its “certification of values,” which is the total taxable value of all properties in the county. The budget reflects a preliminary estimate that shows a 17.5% increase in property values. Property taxes account for $394.6 million of revenue in the 2024 recommended budget, a nearly 19% increase from the 2023 adopted budget of $332 million.Recommended budget includes $492.5 million for road projects and $89.2 million for parks projects.Budget focus remains on roads EAST COUNTY PROJECTS IN THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLANThe total recommended funding for the CIP is $3.8 billion. District 1 is targeted for 40% of those funds with far more projects (155) than any other district. District 5 has 102 projects on the CIP. “It’s going to be skewed because you’ve got the port, Piney Point (phosphate facility) and the (Manatee) dam all in District 1,” District 1 Commissioner James Satcher explained about why his district is receiving so much more money on the CIP than the other districts. “Everyone needs drinking water, and it’s all in District 1. And we’re spending money to make roads that go north/south in my district.” District 5 Commissioner Vanessa Baugh said a “bigger slice of the pie” going to Districts 1 and 5 also are due to population growth in those areas of the county. “Most of 44th Avenue was built with impact fees from District 5,” she said. Here’s a list of the major projects proposed for East County over the next ve years: ROAD IMPROVEMENTS $12.1 million. Lena Road from south of 44th Avenue East to Landll Road. $38.1 million. Lorraine Road from State Road 64 to 59th Avenue East. $23.7 million. Upper Manatee River Road from north of State Road 64 to the Fort Hamer Bridge. PARKS $1 million. Lakewood Ranch parking expansion. $18.9 million. Premier Sports Complex swimming pool. $2.4 million. Braden River Park baseball eld improvements. POTABLE WATER $14.3 million. Upper Manatee River Road north of State Road 64 to Fort Hamer. SOLID WASTE $7.8 million. Lena Road gas expansion WASTEWATER $10.2 million. 44th Avenue East from 44th Avenue Plaza East to Lakewood Ranch Boulevard (reclaimed). $15.8 million. 44th Avenue East from 44th Avenue Plaza East to Lakewood Ranch Boulevard (wastewater). CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN FY24, BY DISTRICTDistrict þ T otal þ Number o f Projects District 1 þ $1, 431,628,241 þ 40 .0% þ 155 Dis trict 2 þ $2 73,078,420 þ 7 .6% þ 9 2 District 3 þ $38 9,838,019 þ 11. 0% þ 11 9 District 4 þ $54 9,762,328 þ 15 .4% þ 1 01 District 5 þ $5 73,911,026 þ 1 6.0% þ 1 02 Countywide þ $1 37,781,807 þ 3 .8% þ 30 Multi-Dis trict þ $22 3,481,335 þ 6.2% þ 54 þ $3 ,579,481,176 þ 100% þ 6 53 FUNDING PRIORITIES FOR FY 24 IN MILLIONSGeneral Government: $130.8 Public Safety: $236.4 Physical Environment: $332.2 Public Transportation: $108.7 Human Services: $37.3 Culture & Recreation: $37.6 Capital Outlay: $110.1 Economic Environment: $39.9 Interfund Transfers: $314.5 Internal Services: $116.1 Transfers to Other Governments: $4.5 Other (contingency, cash balance): $635.3File photosThe county has recommended spending $89.2 million on parks improvements on the FY 2024 budget. Lorraine Road will be widened between State Road 64 and 59th Avenue East.

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4A EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 401656-1 rrfrntbtnr tnrftrrrrff r ff rf ntbf nt brfntbn rnnrnntttnnn 403785-1 SUMMERFAVORITES!NEW ENGLAND 386921-1 rfnt nb nn rtn r tnnnnt ‘b’rf rfn “”n• WHEN YOU THINK FANS THINK DAN’S! DC Motor Fans Available Design Your Own Fan Parts & Services Available TRADITIONAL MODERN CONTEMPORARY LARGE FANS Design Your Own Fan Parts & Services Available In-Store Warran es 1808 Cortez Rd #101 Loca ons Na onwide! www.DansFanCity.com (941) 755-3262 Bradenton E. Sarasota (941) 355-1153 6303 Center Ring Rd #101 Keep It Cool This Summer With An Outdoor Fan! LARGEST SELECTION OF FANS ANYWHERE! 402897-1 LESLEY DWYER STAFF WRITERYou can’t always get what you want. Case in point: Although Mick Jagger’s longtime girlfriend, Melanie Hamrick, has put her Lake Club home on the market for $3.5 million, don’t expect to check the place out at an open house. “The notoriety makes it trickier because you have all the curiosity seekers that you have to weed through,” says RE/MAX Alliance Real Estate Agent Christine Spelman. “I could never do an open house on this house. It’s only private tours.” The house is listed in Hamrick’s name and not in the name of the Rolling Stones frontman. Hamrick, who has family in the area, is a for mer ballerina with the American Ballet Theatre. The couple bought the home at 15809 Clearlake Ave. in October 2020 for $1.98 million. Spelman is the couple’s Realtor and also a family friend. She says Jagger and Hamrick love the area, but with two busy schedules, they simply can’t visit as much as they would like. “It is a magnificent house — 5,725plus square feet, four en-suites, fiveand-a-half baths. They have spent the last two years with two professionals decorators redoing it, mak ing it light and airy,” Spelman says. “The house was originally built with privacy in mind with water on two sides, a park out front and one neighbor, so they took that to the next level with a lot of landscaping and a lot of cameras.” Spelman says the couple had a rough start in Lakewood Ranch because of a frenzy caused by celebrity seekers. She keeps an eye on the house when Jagger and Hamrick can’t be there and says they still receive mail from all over the world to that address. Spelman, who’s been selling homes in the area for 12 years, also receives regular text messages from people saying they swore they just saw Mick Jagger around the corner, to which she typically responds, “No, you didn’t because I know he’s not here.” The publicity caused the couple to add three camera towers on the outside of the property, along with extensive landscaping to prevent prying eyes from seeing inside. The exterior of the home also features three terrace balconies and a bell tower in the back that overlooks the water for a gorgeous sunset view. Inside, there are two staircases. One is private and leads to a master suite. What will people do to see the inside of Mick Jagger’s bedroom? One person made a full price offer of $3,499,000 with one stipulation: to meet the owner. Spelman rejected that offer and changed her restrictions since giving six private tours June 17. Buyers must show proof of funds to get inside. While Jagger’s icon status might draw more interest to the listing, it doesn’t up the price. “We knew it would bring more attention, but we didn’t put extra dollar value for that.”Mick Jagger sightings are now less likely in Lakewood Ranch, as the rock star’s girlfriend, Melanie Hamrick, has put her Lake Club home up for sale for $3.5 million.Mick mansion up for sale Courtesy photoMick Jagger and Melanie Hamrick’s Lakewood Ranch home is listed for $3,499,000.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 5A rf rnntbtnt tn nr t rf ntbr rfnttbfr ntrfntbttttfnfb fntnfttttfff403128-1fntfbfrtr 404108-1 r rf rf ntbnrr rrfn ntbb b 405401-1 LESLEY DWYER STAFF WRITERAfter putting up a two-year legal fight to stop Cox Chevrolet from building a car dealership next to its neighborhood, Save Gates Creek and its Neighborhoods Inc. is out of legal options. “We’re out of it,” said Gates Creek Attorney Jay O’Sullivan. “We brought it up before two different judges and they basically said, ‘We believe the county,’ and that’s it. “We’re just sitting back, and who knows who will really start growling when they start building the place. It’s a space where there’s nine sub divisions around it.” The dealership, planned for an 18-acre parcel at the northwest cor ner of State Road 64 and 117th Street East, was approved by the Manatee County Commission in October 2020 by a 4-3 vote. District Five Commissioner Vanessa Baugh voted against the project. “It’s just a terrible location to put a car dealership,” Baugh said. “There is no mass development like that commercial property in the area. It’s going to be huge.” After the board’s approval, O’Sullivan filed two cases — one against Manatee County claiming they violated both the land development code and the Sunshine Law, the other against Manatee County and Cox Properties claiming the rezoning was not consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. “Both of those cases are now closed. The one shows it’s open because the county was moving for attorney’s fees,” said Fred Moore, the attorney for Cox Properties. “There’s nothing (stopping Cox) as far as moving forward under county approvals, but I don’t know if there are other approvals necessary — the state water district, the federal gov ernment, other items — that wasn’t part of my engagement.” Manatee County filed and won a motion to request the repayment of tax costs and attorney fees from Save Gates Creek, but the county attor ney’s office didn’t respond to phone and email messages asking if they planned to follow through. Some trees and debris have started to be cleared on the property. Kris Cox didn’t return several calls for comment on plans for the lot.Save Gates Creek and its Neighborhoods Inc. is out of legal options following a two-year legal battle to stop the dealership.Car lot opponents out of options Lesley DwyerThe parcel in question is on the northwest corner of State Road 64 and 117th Street East.

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The coffee bar, furnished with bar stools, is front and center when entering Via la Casa, but there are more comfortable couches and chairs to choose from as well. If the furnishings seem too nice to risk spilling on, Costa said they’re not. “The rugs are not very expensive,” Costa said. “The couch is made for sitting. I sprayed Scotchgard on the chairs. That’s why we have super rustic tables, cutting boards and things like that, so you’re not scared of spilling or scratching.”The multipurpose shop is a coee and wine bar, art gallery, home decor store and event space.The art of business IF YOU GOVia la Casa. 8209 Nature’s Way, Suite 121. Open 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursdays and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Visit VialaCasa.art.Photos by Lesley DwyerGabriella Moss and her mother, Silvia Costa, are 50/50 partners in Via la Casa.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 7A rffrntbrtnnrrrrrf trrtnnrftrnnrrtfnrtnrttrtrnnnr rfrfntftbftrrrfffbrff ffnfnfbrffrfnr r rfnfrtb rf nrntbbb ntffnr ffbnf f f f n tb t f f t t rrfrnt rrfrn r ‘‘ ’‘“r”•r r‘ ’’ –r‘‘ r”•‘r“—’““r ““‘’‘– “‘’r”•rff fnrn f rbnnfnrn 403567-1 You are invited to a special intimate performance put on by the Sarasota Jazz Project. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2023 RAIN OR SHINE 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM AldermanOaks.com 727 Hudson Avenue Sarasota, FL 34236 AL#8979 To RSVP Call 941 955 9099 Downtown Sarasota s Premier Senior Rental Retirement Residence Enjoy listening to Jazz selections from this talented group either out in our gardens or indoors, depending on the weather. 405267-1 of West Florida, Inc.Lic# CPC1458597 rfntbftfnfn rfntbftfnfn r rr rf f n n n n b br r n nr r b b f f n n www.HolidayPoolsFlorida.com 402065-1 Family Owned and Operated Since 1994 Call today to schedule an appointment With the exception of a few oneof-a-kind pieces like the 19th century table from France or the box that was turned into a table, the furniture is for sale, too. Just ask and it’ll be ordered. The “box” table originally held a model airplane until Costa thought it would make a good coffee table, so she stained and varnished it. Costa, 57, is the artist behind the 18 oil paintings that adorn Via la Casa’s walls. Most are originals, but walk around with Costa and she’ll make you guess which ones aren’t. The replicas are archival pigment prints done on canvas. They’re museum quality with a lifespan of 200 years. Originals run from $12,000 to $70,000, and prints from $500 to $2,000. “I priced them where I wouldn’t regret selling them,” Costa said. “I’m a perfectionist, and it’s realism. When you look at the painting, you think you’re looking at a photo. It takes a lot of hours.” A larger 48-by-72-inch painting can take Costa up to 180 hours to finish. She works off photographs. One of her favorite pieces is called “Yellow Dress.” Moss is the woman wearing the dress. The idea to open an art gallery came first. Everything else snow balled from there. “I said, ‘There should be home decor in the midspace, and we’ll create a home with the art and the furniture underneath it,’” Moss said. “Then I thought, why not blend it into a coffee shop as well?” When Costa heard coffee, she added wine. The mother-anddaughter team work well together, each with a different skill set. Costa has a background in merchandising and focuses on the decor and inventory, while Moss earned a material science engineering degree from the University of Florida and handles the bar, marketing and social media. They only butt heads over the budget. Moss is the more fiscally conser vative of the two. As for shoppers, Via la Casa fits any budget. The home decor items range from $10 hand towels to an $800 ceramic platter handmade and imported from Italy. “If you can’t afford a painting, buy a cappuccino,” Costa said. “You can just have a coffee, look around at all the paintings and merchandise, and enjoy yourself.” Alexis Jones was looking for a spot to grab a coffee on her way home from work to the Residences at the Green. “We don’t have a lot of smaller coffee shops in Lakewood Ranch. I teach tennis, so I’m usually on the search for coffee after lessons,” Jones said. “The coffee is very good. It doesn’t taste acidic, and it doesn’t have an aftertaste. The banana bread was really good, too, and gluten free.” Jones plans on returning, but she’s bringing her mom next time, and that’s exactly the response Moss hopes to hear. “This is a place to connect,” she said. “We have the opportunity to connect with the community and also provide a place that the community can connect, whether meeting with friends or for business.” The shop is closed Sundays and Mondays to host private events, and the current hours may expand with employees. For now, Via la Casa runs on a staff of two: Moss and Costa. They’re tweaking and evolving as they go. Wine tastings start next month. For now, the focus is on getting to know their customers and offering that little something extra you can’t find at a Starbucks. For one, the iced coffee is served in a red wine glass. “It’s more beautiful, and every body wants to feel special,“ Costa said. “Everybody comes here and has a story to tell, and by the end, we’re kind of friends.” The merchandise at Via la Casa is intertwined with the decor.

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8A EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 JAY HEATER MANAGING EDITORVanessa Baugh, the senior member of the Manatee County Commission, has resigned from her post with 1.5 years remaining on her term. Baugh, who was serving her third term in representing District 5 and more than 10 years overall, said family concerns have caused her to bow out early. The staunch Republican was first elected in 2012. An email to her fellow commissioners on Friday morning read: “Commissioners, the day has come to announce my retirement from the Manatee County BOCC. One thing I have come to realize is that one of the most important things in life is family. This week has reinforced that it is time to take care of my husband (Don Baugh), children and grandchildren and to be a bigger part of their lives. “I have forwarded the governor my retirement letter effective July 31. Representing Manatee County has been such an honor, and I will always cherish and be proud of the accomplishments during my tenure.” She added, “When I got involved, I thought I could make a difference, and I think I have.” Baugh called her resignation “bittersweet.” “I have loved representing District 5,” she said. “I have worked very hard and I feel like many people (in her district) have become like family to me. But the time comes when you need to have your priorities.” Baugh, who owns Vanessa Fine Jewelry on Lakewood Main Street with her husband, said she decided to run for the Manatee County Commission in 2012 because the Lakewood Ranch business community approached her about running for office to gain more representation for that sector of the community. “Businesses were losing their line of credit at that time,” Baugh said. “We were losing a lot of banks. I had been telling people what we were missing, and how we could move the community forward. “But I really didn’t want (to run). I had two stores at the time (the other in Sarasota). I needed to concentrate on business.” Instead, she ran for commissioner, defeating John Colon in the primary and James Golden in the General Election. In 2016, she earned another fouryear term by beating Kathleen Grant with 53.13% of the vote. As still is the case, Baugh said at the time that roads were her main concern. Although she said she didn’t want to serve more than two terms, she ended up winning a third term in 2020 because she felt those in the race would not benefit the county. She said working to get the diverging diamond project built at the Interstate 75 and University Park way interchange was one of her top achievements. “We had it on our (capital improvement plan) for 2035,” she said. She went to the Rep. Greg Steube and Sarasota County officials for help in speeding up the project. It opened in 2017. She is proud that Manatee County “is building more roads than ever before in its history.” “We worked year after year to get Manatee to prioritize roads,” she said. Another of her top achievements, she said, was moving the county toward building a library in Lakewood Ranch. The Lakewood Ranch Library will open late this year. “I am sad that I am leaving office before it opens,” she said. “I hope I get invited.” She has been surrounded by controversy as well. In January, she settled with the Florida Commission on Ethics on her role in setting up a COVID-19 vaccination clinic that only served two ZIP Codes of East County residents. She organized the event without notifying the other Manatee County commissioners and came under fire from some members of the community who felt the affluent Lakewood Ranch residents were getting preferential treatment when it came to receiving the vaccine. “I knew that 3,000 people in Lakewood Ranch would get the vaccine,” she said. “And I knew that would leave 3,000 doses of the vaccine for other people in Manatee County. I wish it never had happened, but it did.” She paid an $8,000 fine and came under fire by her fellow commissioners. “(Being commissioner) definitely has changed me,” she said June 16. “I am not that innocent, young lady with all those ideas of what we should do and how we should do it. I have been to war. I have scars. I am thankful this community has stuck with me. “You don’t go into politics and get out unscathed. When I was elected, it’s not like what politics are today. It saddens me to think where we are now. What happened to treating each other with respect?” State Sen. Jim Boyd, a Republican representing the 21st District which includes parts of northern Manatee County and southern Hills borough County, said strong leaders such as Baugh are going to experience tough times in office. “I don’t think there is an elected official, one who has done anything of value, who doesn’t have highs and lows,” Boyd said. “Vanessa was relentless,” Boyd said. “She wouldn’t give up on something that was important to her community. She has taken representing Lakewood Ranch and the surrounding area very seriously. We will miss her.” Rep. Tommy Gregory, a Republican representing the 73rd House District that includes parts of Manatee (Lakewood Ranch) and Sarasota counties, said serving 10.5 years in one of the nation’s fastest growing counties is impressive in itself. “I would say she has been a hardworking, public-service, elected official,” Gregory said. “She was never a ‘yes’ vote or a ‘no’ vote on anything. She was a warrior, and warriors are always missed.” Despite some controversial moments, Baugh said she doesn’t regret her time in office. “This county and our values and morals are worth fighting for,” she said. “Unfortunately, that has gotten ugly.” She said the period during COV ID-19 was her toughest time in office. “It was tough for the county, the state, the country,” she said. “You realize that so many of your friends and relatives had passed away from a disease we had never seen before. Figuring out what to do was a very tough task.” Baugh’s successor will be selected by Gov. Ron DeSantis to serve out the rest of her term. “That person will have to be prepared to be changed,” Baugh said. “And it does change you.” While Baugh is leaving office, she said she will be available to the county if anyone wants to call her. She said she hopes the current commissioners “understand the impor tance of working together as a board, that no one has more authority than another.” “I wish them the best,” she said. “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 2020 The Observer Media Group Inc. All Rights ReservedYourObserver.com Observer Media Group Inc. is locally owned. Publisher of the Longboat Observer, East County Observer, Sarasota/Siesta Key Observer, Palm Coast Observer, Ormond Beach Observer, West Orange Times & Observer, Southwest Orange Observer, Business Observer, Jacksonville Daily Record, Key Life Magazine, LWR Life Magazine, Baldwin Park Living Magazine and Season Magazine CEO / Matt Walsh President / Emily Walsh Vice President / Lisa Walsh Chairman Emeritus / David Beliles 8130 Lakewood Main St., Suite D207 Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 941-755-5357Publisher and President / Emily Walsh, EWalsh@YourObserver.com Associate Publisher — East County Observer / Lori Ruth, LRuth@YourObserver.com Executive Editor and COO / Kat Wingert, KWingert@YourObserver.com Managing Editor / Jay Heater, JHeater@YourObserver.com Senior Editor / Liz Ramos, LRamos@YourObserver.com Sports Editor / Ryan Kohn, RKohn@YourObserver.com Sta Writer / Lesley Dwyer, LDwyer@ YourObserver.com Digital & Engagement Editor / Kaelyn Adix, KAdix@YourObserver.com Copy Editor / Gina Reynolds Haskins, GRHaskins@YourObserver.com Senior Editorial Designer / Melissa Leduc, MLeduc@YourObserver.com A+E Editor / Monica Roman Gagnier, MGagnier@YourObserver.com Director of Advertising / Jill Raleigh, JRaleigh@YourObserver.com Sales Manager / Penny Nowicki, PNowicki@YourObserver.com Regional Digital Director / Kathleen O’Hara, KOHara@YourObserver.com Senior Advertising Executive / Laura Ritter, LRitter@YourObserver.com Advertising Executives / Richeal Bair, RBair@YourObserver.com; Beth Jacobson, BJacobson@YourObserver.com; Jennifer Kane, JKane@YourObserver.com; Honesty Mantkowski, HMantkowski@YourObserver. com; Toni Perren, TPerren@YourObserver. com; Brenda White, BWhite@ YourObserver.com Classied Advertising Sales Executive / Lexi Huelsman, LHuelsman@ YourObserver.com Sales Operations Manager / Susan Leedom, SLeedom@YourObserver.com Sales Coordinator / Account Manager Lori Downey, LDowney@YourObserver.com Digital Fulllment Specialist / Emma B. Jolly, EJolly@YourObserver.com Tributes Coordinator / Kristen Boothroyd, Tributes@YourObserver.com Director of Marketing / Robin Lankton, RLankton@YourObserver.com Marketing Specialist / Melanie Melone, MMelone@YourObserver.com Director of Creative Services / Caleb Stanton, CStanton@YourObserver.com Creative Services Administrator / Marjorie Holloway, MHolloway@ YourObserver.com Advertising Graphic Designers / Luis Trujillo, Taylor Poe, Louise Martin, Shawna Polana Digital Developer / Jason Camillo, JCamillo@YourObserver.com Information Technology Manager / Homer Gallego, HGallego@YourObserver. com Chief Financial Ocer / Laura Strickland, LStrickland@YourObserver.com Controller / Rafael Labrin, RLabrin@YourObserver.com Oce and Accounting Coordinator / Donna Condon, DCondon@ YourObserver.com EAST COUNTYAfter more than 10 years serving Manatee County as commissioner, Vanessa Baugh walks away to concentrate on her family.GOODBYE POLITICS“She was never a ‘yes’ vote or a ‘no’ vote on anything. She was a warrior, and warriors are always missed.”— Rep. Tommy Gregory“I am not that innocent, young lady with all those ideas of what we should do and how we should do it. I have been to war. I have scars. I am thankful this community has stuck with me.”— Vanessa Baugh File photosState Rep. James Buchanan and Commissioner Vanessa Baugh break ground for the Mote Science Education Aquarium in 2020.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 9A rfnntbrtbf nbfn f rfnrtbtr rfnnt trrtnnnrfnfn nttbfnfntbttfn404260-1 You’ve been sitting around your Lakewood Ranch home telling your signicant other that it is, indeed, time to give back to the community. But you say you don’t know how. Here’s how. Call 843-415-3436 or send an email to gamafn@gmail.com. Operators are standing by. OK, I’m kidding about the operators are standing by part. Actually, the person standing by is Annemarie Neubecker, a Lakewood Ranch Community Fund board member who is assembling a volunteer force for the fund, which raises money that is granted to area nonprofits. In the past, much of the “volunteer” work performed by the Lakewood Ranch Community Fund has been done by its board members, but over the last year, the fund’s board has started a more aggressive strategy of hosting events to assure more money is available to the local nonprofits. Those two events, The Soire at the Ranch (Nov. 9 at Lakewood Ranch Country Club) and the Run for the Beads (Feb. 10, 2024 at Waterside Place) need volunteers to grow. In other words, they need you. The diversity of needs is actually the best part. Do you like setting up chairs and tables for just one day a year because you have a busy schedule and are crushed for time? Annemarie has a job for you. Perhaps you would like to work one day in February, just pointing runners in the right direction? Annemarie has a job for you. Perhaps you can’t stand for very long, but would love to sit at a table and take tickets? Maybe design is your thing, and you could decorate the Soire in a way that would make a five-star hotel jealous? Neubecker said some people are really tech crazy, and that would be a big help. Some people love to make community connections and would be perfect to help the fund find sponsors. Others have leadership skills and like to be in charge of a team or a unit. Perhaps you have solid administrative skills, which are much needed. Call 843-415-3436 or send an email to gamafn@gmail.com. Operators are ... well ... you know. Neubecker said that there are plenty of volunteer options for both leaders and worker bees. And no matter what kind of volunteer lands at the Lakewood Ranch Community Fund, Neubecker said the nonprofit is likely to receive another enormous benefit. “First and foremost, we are wanting to build awareness of the fund, and one way is to engage people from our Lakewood Ranch communities into our projects,” Neubecker said. Not only does the fund gain volunteers to do some very important tasks, it picks up ambassadors along the way. “They will be the mouthpiece for the fund,” Neubecker said. Of course, every volunteer task is important. “We learned that when we had our two major events, because of where we held those events (the Soire was at Esplanade and the run was at Waterside Place), we could engage those communities in the work. “ But relying on the kindness of one community to fill roles on short notice was not a good strategy for the long run. Esplanade residents made a huge difference at the Soire. Event chair Nancy Sykes lives in Esplanade, and that community responded with 35 volunteers to help both the fund and Sykes. Hopefully some of those volunteers will be longtime volunteers no matter where in the area the event is held. “They did everything from helping with decorations, planning for audio visual, arranging and setting up items for the auction, to working at the event,” Neubecker said. “They greeted people and helped to guide them around to different parts of the venue. Some would sell raffle tickets.” She said one benefit of having volunteers registered with the fun is the ability to clearly define roles and even give some training if needed. “There is a recognition piece,” Neubecker said. “They will know what their role is.” It would also allow the fund to perform an orientation of volunteers along with giving them recognition for their effort, a basic “Thank you.” While the Run for the Beads would seem to be more straightforward in terms of tasks, Neubecker said she had a committee of 10 volunteers who served as planners. Ahead of time, volunteers were seeking sponsors, researching awards, and working closely with Fit to Run, the company that manages the run. She said more than 25 volunteers were needed to put on the event, and even that was not enough. “It was hard to find the right people to volunteer, and in the process, simultaneously plan the event,” Neubecker said. “If we had a network, a way to be able to retrieve volunteers, we would be able to pull people from that resource.” Neubecker was asked what makes a good volunteer. “Someone who is willing to jump in and take on any task,” she said. “Someone who has the time, because volunteer work is time consuming.” With that said, she emphasized that volunteers can pick their own time commitment. It could be those who just want to work one day or it could be those who want to be part of the planning effort. “We need people who have specific talents,” Neubecker said. “An example was a woman on our committee had an eye for color and design, and for the Soire she arranged the pieces on the table. We want to identify those special talents and have recognized them ahead of time. We can pull that information.” Neubecker said more Lakewood Ranch Community Fund events are likely on the way. “Definitely, we have two events now for sure,” she said. “There already is discussion for two or three more.” So how do you keep volunteers coming back? “If you recognize a skill they have, and you capitalize on that. Something as simple as having a leadership quality, they will respond,” Neubecker said. “We look for something like someone who is persuasive. I saw that last year on my race committee. And we had some challenges.” No matter the skill, Neubecker says she looks for one quality in most volunteers. “An upbeat personality,” she said. “It can be a daunting task to put on a big event, and you want cheerleaders. That is one of the most important features. We don’t want a negative person on a committee.” Hopefully, the reward for volunteers is the self-satisfaction that comes with helping the community. “I do volunteer tutoring, and I find it so rewarding,” Neubecker said. “It is what keeps you coming back, seeing the benefit of your work. Our volunteers for the Soire, I kept hearing as we were cleaning up, that it was so great. You could feel the energy in the room, a team effort. Everyone felt like they contributed.”Want to volunteer? The time is right Jay HeaterBoard member Annemarie Neubecker is seeking volunteers for the Lakewood Ranch Community Fund.SIDE OF RANCH JAY HEATERJay Heater is the managing editor for the East County Observer. Contact him at JHeater@ YourObserver.com.

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10A EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 rfnAppointment is required. Space is Limited.trbbr We Can Help If You Suer From...b bbtr rn br tfrrnf rfnt bbtrrrr bbb ‘’ ’“Florida Lakes Vein Center oers state-of-the-art, minimally invasive treatments with no downtime! 404422-1 VOLUNTEER DRIVERS NEEDED rfnfnntbbbffn rfntbt bf ff bfr405044-1 BREATHE EASY KNOWING YOUR MOST VALUABLE ASSET IS ON ALERTWITH 1115 Manatee Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205 (941) 749-1800 | www.ManateeClerk.com PROPERTY ALERTS To get started Scan the QR code or Visit: www.ManateeClerk.com/online-services/property-alerts ANGELINA “ANGEL” COLONNESO CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MANATEE COUNTY 405269-1 Sign up to safeguard your property for FREE. WHY SIGN UP? Early detection of suspicious filings. Added layer of protection. For all home, land, and commercial property owners. JAY HEATER MANAGING EDITORRestoration ecologist Charles Reith was thrilled 15 members of the Rotary Club of Lakewood Ranch showed up June 17 in Greenbrook to spread sheets of cardboard and mulch to prep for the planting of a microforest. But he said the actual labor involved took a backseat to something else. “Everyone who works on it, learns from it,” Reith said of the microfor est. Reith, who has more than 25 years of experience working in energy, mining, agriculture, environmental remediation, waste management and academia, is hoping such projects go viral. “Today we are doing something that will be good for the environment for 200 years,” he told the group of volunteers. “This is a high perfor mance microforest that will deliver 10 times more ecological benefit. It means flood protection, wind protection, cooling and wildlife habitat. “This will be a 100-year forest that will grow in 10 years.” Rotarians have supported six such projects in the region, including one in Heritage Harbour and two at the Celery Fields in Sarasota. “We are taking spaces that are not being utilized,” said John Freeman, a member of the Rotary Club of Lakewood Ranch. “We are taking grassy areas, and with the help of master gardeners, making it bio diverse.” Freeman said the target areas are generally grassy areas that must be mowed by schools or municipalities. In the case of the Greenbrook project, which borders the Heron’s Nest Nature Park lake, Lakewood Ranch’s Inter-District Authority must maintain the .3 acres involved. “They are spending resources on it,” Freeman said. Freeman said the purpose of the cardboard is to “cook” the soil underneath. “This is going to be a perfect environment for earthworms,” said Reith, who in 1990 received the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Award from President George H.W. Bush for his volunteer work on environmental justice in the South Valley of Albuquerque, New Mexico. The group quickly laid out of cardboard before spreading the mulch. In approximately six weeks, volunteers will return to plant more than 1,500 trees and plants. Among the trees will be sycamores, red maples, oaks, magnolias, hickory and long leaf pine.Rotary Club of Lakewood Ranch spearheads eort to plant microforest in Greenbrook. TREE TIMES THE EFFORTWhat: Microforest in Greenbrook Who: Rotary Club of Lakewood Ranch holds a volunteer day Where: Along Heron’s Nest Nature Park lake in Greenbrook When: June 17 First step: A layer of cardboard was put down over 0.3 acres and then 6 inches of mulch was put over it What’s next: More than 1,500 native trees and shrubs will be planted in about six weeksSeeds of ecology Jay HeaterLaura Adcock is denitely, as her shirt says, a “Rotarian at Work.”

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 11A One Park Sarasota remains fully committed to fostering a good partnership with the City of Sarasota and the local community to bring this oneof-kind luxury development to life for the residents of Sarasota to enjoy. Nestled in the heart of The Quay, One Park has developed an unmatched presence and level of interest from those within the Sarasota real estate market. Boasting stunning residences and a high-end range of public and private amenities, it has caught the eyes of buyers looking for a wholly luxurious residential experience. With its creatively inspired aesthetic, extensive offerings, and top-notch ambiance, One Park Sarasota is poised as a prime example of what luxury can be as the city expands and looks toward its bright future.Beyond Elegant Interior DesignOne Park Sarasota is more than to an unparalleled quality of life for its inhabitants. Every aspect of this luxury property has been meticulously designed to enhance the comfort and convenience of its residents, creating an environment that is both elegant and inviting, exceeding the expectations of residents and visitors alike. expertly designed by the renowned Hoyt Architects, exude an unparalleled level of sleek sophistication to perfectly capture the essence of elevated waterfront living. penthouse units that immerse residents ambience. Every unit is equipped a contemporary lighting package with recessed lighting, dimmers, and lighting control, fully built-out closets, and a midnight bar in select primary bedrooms. Notable features also include expansive outdoor terraces with glass railing and summer kitchens, as well through PMG smart home technology, delivering seamless personalization with a touch of a button. With these aspects not only pleasing to behold, but key for a more relaxed everyday life. “One Park will be a one-of-a-kind emphasizing beauty and functionality of the building, all while staying faithful to Gary Hoyt, President & Chief Executive Fostering Community Engagement A key element of luxury living is an engaged and thriving community. One Park Sarasota will foster just that for both its residents and those at The Quay through a spacious and exquisitely designed breezeway above Quay Commons. This secure passageway will provide convenient access to The Quay and The Bay Park, transforming the common space into a dynamic pedestrian walkway adorned with widened sidewalks and vibrant greenery. This one-of-a-kind communal area will serve as an engaging hub for both Sarasota locals and One Park Sarasota residents, creating a lively and safe atmosphere for making connections or taking a moment to enjoy the surrounding scenery as one travels. One Park Sarasota will also deliver plentiful gathering and communal general public to partake in and enjoy at their leisure. The developers of One Park have planned over 13,000 square This dedicated area will offer top-notch retail options, dining establishments, and outdoor caf seating catering to individuals seeking to socialize with friends, seek shelter during inclement weather or hot summer days, or shop for the latest trends just steps away from home. This retail space will also commercial activity, ensuring the sustained for years to come.Amenity Spaces For Everyday LivingFor One Park Sarasota residents, engaging experiences do not only exist outside the property or on the ground building itself, courtesy of 63,000 square feet of expansive amenity space. Elevated offerings include a private One Park Wellness Spa, a resort-style pool, high-tech exercise equipment, executive theater room and golf simulator room, suites. Additional services led by the dedicated concierge staff include valet parking, package delivery, and dog walking. Daily access to this dynamic range of amenities ensures residents never are far from enjoying serenity, comfort, and enriching activities, nor experiencing the greatness of waterfront living in Sarasota.Embracing a New Standard of LuxuryOne Park Sarasota is establishing a new standard for luxury living in Sarasota. Its ideal location, purposefully designed spaces that foster a seamless sense of community, and its meticulously crafted living spaces are second to none and showcase an appealing bayfront lifestyle unlike any other. To witness this unparalleled residential are encouraged to visit the One Park touches being placed on its new model primary bathroom and various other spaces to explore, it gives a pictureperfect glimpse into this iconic property coming soon to Sarasota. rf ntbf rfrnft ADVERTISEMENTARTIST CONCEPTUAL RENDERING405158-1 ONE PARK SARASOTA: AN EXCEPTIONAL RESIDENTIAL CENTERPIECE, DESIGNED WITH THE CITY IN MINDARTIST CONCEPTUAL RENDERING

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YOUROBSERVER.COMJUNE 22, 2023 < PUGILISTIC PREMIERE: “That Must be the Entrance to Heaven” packs a mean punch. 15A MUSICOLOGY TALE: “Black Pearl Sings” opens at FST’s Keating Theatre on June 28. 14A >A+E INSIDE: ARTS + ENTERTAINMENTCREATING A CANDY-COLORED WORLDVenice photographer Niki Butcher emerges from the shadow of her famous husband with a book capturing her pastel-hued work.Niki’s pastel-tinted photographs have their own room in the gallery, which is dominated by the massive black-and-white works of her husband. Clyde’s stark environmental photography is often compared to that of the legendary Ansel Adams, whom he cites as an influence on his work. Niki’s photographs also capture nature. It makes sense since the Butchers own a home and studio in Big Cyprus National Preserve in Ochopee. They’ve also shared cars, campers and boats in their 60-year journey together, which began in Palo Alto, Calif. Like her husband, Niki starts out by taking a black-and-white photograph. But then she applies pastel pigments to the print and uses cotton swabs and balls as paintbrushes. What’s left behind is a candy-colored dream.A TRIP TO OLD FLORIDAEarlier this year, Niki published her first book of photographs, “Daydreaming,” which brings together her work spanning more than five decades. Step inside the gallery room with Niki’s photographs and you’ll discover that the much-ballyhooed Big Sky of Montana has nothing on the panoramas of Florida, especially when they’re enhanced by the artist. In addition to large photos of mangrove, cypress and palm trees and idyllic sandy beaches, Niki’s room and her book feature smaller scenes of Old Florida. These run-down fishing shacks, general stores selling a little bit of everything and salty, sun-dried characters are still around in the Sunshine State. Long after they’re gone, these vestiges of Old Florida will live on in Niki’s photographs. For a woman whose creations depend upon embellishment, Niki is remarkably free of artistry. She doesn’t try to smooth out the rough edges of her life. At 78, Niki’s not in a hurry, but maybe she never was. She’s delicate but not frail and appears ready for whatever life sends her way. She’s the able first mate to Clyde’s skipper. For many years, Niki was too busy helping with Clyde’s business and tending to her children to be a real artist. But then fate intervened. As she recounts the story of her life, she pauses and asks: “Do you know what happens to a marriage when a child dies?” Yes. Very few survive. What’s more, siblings also carry the weight of the loss. Niki’s transformation from helpmeet to artist came after her son Ted was killed by a drunken driver in 1986. “Not long after Ted died, we were booked at an arts show in Ann Arbor, home of the University of Michigan,” she recalls. “Being around all those young people got me missing Ted so much.” While the Butchers were in Ann Arbor, Niki met a young man in a wheelchair who was cheerful and did not appear to feel sorry for himself because he was disabled.BECOMING A REAL ARTISTShortly after that encounter, Niki said she decided to stop taking pictures of stuffed bears, rocking chairs and other saccharine subjects, work that was designed to open wallets at art shows. She decided to create art that spoke to her. “It was Ted who helped me see what I needed to do,” Niki says. When they got married in 1963 after meeting on a double date, Niki had studied fine art at a junior college, and Clyde was working as an architect. He was the breadwinner; photography was just a hobby. But then he lost his job in one of California’s periodic real estate busts. According to Niki, a close friend suggested that Clyde take down his photographs that were hanging on the walls of the Butcher house and sell them at an upcoming art fair. By this time, the couple had moved to Los Angeles. Clyde’s photographs found favor with Angeleno art lovers. “He made more in that one weekend that he had in a whole month as an architect,” Niki says.MONICA ROMAN GAGNIERA+E EDITOR“You’re wearing my colors,” exclaims Niki Butcher when a visitor wearing an aqua-and-pink dress arrives at the Venice gallery she shares with her husband, photographer Clyde Butcher. Niki ButcherThe horizon seems endless in this tinted photograph of a dock on Loggerhead Key.“The sun sets in the West, and I was used to sunsets over the ocean. I really liked that. Once we moved to the Gulf Coast, I was happy again. The sun set in the right place.” — Niki Butcher

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 13A 401897-1 rfntbnrnrfntb NOW – SAT AUG 12 rfntfn br $20 $13 b Incredible Family Entertainment rfntbf f 390599-1 PRODUCING FOR THE MASSESClyde’s photographs were so popular that a friend approached him about starting a business to sell reproductions of Clyde’s images through department stores like Montgomery Ward and J.C. Penney. “Back then, photography wasn’t really considered art, so we put a clock in the corner of the photograph and they became wall clocks,” Niki says. Fast forward a few years. The Butchers and their financial partner own a company called Eye Encounter based in Akron, Ohio, with 200 employees. After selling Eye Encounter to a corporation, the Butchers decided to hit the road and then the sea, all the while raising two kids. Along the way, Clyde gave up color photography and destroyed all his negatives. According to Niki, he lost the rights to most of his images when they sold their company. As former Californians, the Butchers love sunshine, the ocean and natural beauty. They didn’t want to go home after selling their business in Ohio so they decided to give Florida a try. But they didn’t get it right the first time — they settled on the East Coast. The people were nice enough, Niki says, but she couldn’t get her bearings. “I was used to sunsets over the ocean. Once we moved to the Gulf Coast, I was happy again. The sun set in the right place,” she says. The turning point in their lives, though, was when they were able to buy a property in Big Cypress, a stepping stone into Florida’s dark and wild interior. Clyde found the landscape that would cement his reputation as an environmental photographer. But before visitors started coming to the Butcher Gallery in Big Cypress, Clyde and Niki had to hit the road to sell their art. Long before the #vanlife craze hit social media, the Butchers were parking their camper in places like Central Park West in New York City to attend art festivals.ALWAYS HAPPY TO COME HOME Wherever the Butchers travel, Niki’s always happy to come back to Flor ida and its “weird and wonderful people,” she says. “There’s nothing like it.” A visitor to a crowded open house in May at Clyde Butcher’s Venice gallery, located in a warehouse district, could rightfully assume that their success was predestined. That would be a mistake, Niki says. “When you go to art fairs, you meet so many talented people. Why did we succeed with two galleries while other people are still selling at art shows? Because we had the experience of running a business,” she says. These days, the Butchers’ daughter Jackie and son-in-law Neal Obendorf play a major part in the business, particularly since Clyde’s recent stroke. Even the grandkids are getting involved. As Clyde and Niki celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary this year, the couple knows their legacy is in good hands.Niki ButcherNiki’s embellished photograph of a mangrove tree on Money Key. þ Courtesy photosClyde and Niki Butcher are celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary this year. Niki Butcher uses cotton swabs and cotton balls as her paintbrushes.

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14A EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 OUR SHOWROOMS ARE OPEN 1734 South Tamiami Trail Venice, FL 34293 941.493.7441 4551 N. Washington Blvd. Sarasota, FL 34234 941.355.8437 2510 1st Street West Bradenton, FL 34208 941.748.4679 385049-1 www.manasotaonline.com THURSDAY‘THE MAN I LOVE’ LECTURE 11 a.m. at Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail $10 Visit OlliRinglingCollege.org. þ  This O sher Lifelong Learning Institute class recounts the 10-year aair between Kay Swift and musical giant George Gershwin, which lasted until Gershwin died. Swift was the rst woman to completely score a hit musical. SUMMER CIRCUS SPECTACULAR 2 p.m. at Historic Asolo Theater, 5401 Bay Shore Road $15-$20 Visit CircusArts.org. Heidi Herriott, a third-generation American circus artist, presides over performances by hand balancers, clowns, jugglers and aerial rope artists, just to name just a few. Tickets are aordable, thanks to a partnership between the Circus Arts Academy and The Ringling. Runs through Aug. 12. ‘FAIRY TALE’ 4:30 p.m. at Holley Hall, 709 N. Tamiami Trail From $30 Visit SarasotaOrchestra.org. Flutist Jasmine Choi and pianist Michael Adock play Dutilleux, while Jennifer Frautschi plays violin on Schubert’s “Piano Quintet in A Major.” The concert also features the works of Janacek, DeFalla/Kreisler and Kreisler. The festival continues through June 24. ‘REEL MUSIC’ 6 p.m. at Florida StudioTheatre’s Court Cabaret, 1265 First St. $34-$39 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org. “Reel Music” celebrates the movies that helped create the soundtrack to the last century, with classics like “Singing in the Rain,” “Circle of Life” and “My Heart Will Go On.” Runs through June 25. ‘THAT MUST BE THE ENTRANCE TO HEAVEN’ 7:30 p.m. at Urbanite Theatre, 1487 Second St. $39 Visit UrbaniteTheatre.com. In this world premiere by Franky D. Gonzalez, four Latino boxers all chase a world title to fulll their dreams. But are the sacrices required to win the championship belt worth risking one’s life for? Runs through July 9. THE SURFER BOYS 7:30 p.m. at FST’s Goldstein Cabaret,1265 First St. $18 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org. From the group that brought you The Jersey Tenors comes a rousing tribute to the band that took America on a “Surn’ Safari” in the early 1960s. Runs through Aug. 13. ‘SHEAR MADNESS’ 8 p.m. at FST’s Gompertz Theatre, 1265 First St. $25 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org. There’s been a murder in a Sarasota hair salon, and it’s up to FST audiences to outwit the suspects and catch the killer in this interactive comedy. Runs through July 2.FRIDAY‘RISING STARS’ 2:30 p.m. at Holley Hall, 709 N. Tamiami Trail From $15 Visit SarasotaOrchestra.org. The works of Fanny Mendelssohn, Brahms, Strauss, Ravel and other composers will be performed by the fellows studying at the Sarasota Music Festival. The festival continues through June 24. SHINDIG BAND 7 p.m. at Centennial Park, Venice Free Visit VeniceFL.org/Friday-NightConcert-Series. The city of Venice kicks o its summer season of free concerts with ShinDig, which plays popular hits from Golden Oldies to the music of today. The series continues every other Friday through Sept. 8. SONGS FROM THE SAND: A HERMITAGE CABARET 7 p.m. at Waterside Pavilion at Lakewood Ranch, 1560 Lakefront Drive $5 Visit HermitageArtistRetreat.org. This evening of song will feature original songs and words created by artists who have been in residence on its Manasota Key campus. Details of the show have not been announced. ‘Traditions and Transformations’ 7:30 p.m. at Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave. From $29 Visit SarasotaOrchestra.org. The works of Debussy, Ligeti, Beethoven and Mendelssohn will be performed. The festival continues through June 24.SATURDAY‘BEETHOVEN AND SCHUMANN’ 7:30 p.m. at Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave. From $30 Visit SarasotaOrchestra.org. Nicholas McGegan conducts piano soloist Robert Levin playing Beethoven’s Piano Concert No. 4. The works of Emily Cooley and Schumann will also be performed. The family friendly Summer Circus Spectacular runs at Historic Asolo Theater through Aug. 12.THIS WEEK OUR PICKBLUESTAR BAND PRESENTS ‘REAL DEAL BLUES’ Oseason got you singing the blues? The antidote might be “Real Deal Blues” with Bluestar Band, featuring Johnny Guitar, who claims to have been living the blues his entire life. Guitar will be joined by former retinal surgeon Oren “Doc” Plous on keyboards, Chicago blues veteran Kevin O’Connor on guitar and Sarasota radio host Velvet Hammer on bass. The band will play blues standards, plus some of Guitar’s original songs. IF YOU GO When: 7 p.m. Saturday, June 24 Where: Old Packinghouse Cafe Tickets: Free Info: Visit BlueTarBand.com. DON’T MISS‘BLACK PEARL SINGS!’ Set during the Great Depression, “Black Pearl Sings” tells the story of an unlikely friendship between a Library of Congress musicologist who wants to record undocumented slavery-era music and an African American prisoner who has the knowledge that the researcher needs. IF YOU GO When: June 28, Runs through July 30. Where: FST’s Keating Theatre, 1265 First St. Tickets: $25 Info: Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org. Courtesy photos“Black Pearl Sings” runs June 28-July 30 at FST.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 15A 405261-1 2542 17th St., Sarasota, FL 34234 For pricing and services, go to www.catdepot.orgCAT CARE CLINICrOpen to the PublicBy Appointment Only 941.366.CATS (2287) 401590-1 rfrntbt rrfttt t tt t‘t INFORMATION TICKETS THROUGH 380874-1 MARTY FUGATECONTRIBUTORFranky D. Gonzalez’s “That Must Be the Entrance to Heaven” just premiered at Urbanite Theatre. The play revolves around a quest for the title of World Heavyweight Boxing Champion. Fisticuffs aside, this isn’t your typical boxing play. It flips genre expectations. “Rocky” it isn’t. It’s more of an anti-boxing play. We’ll explain why later. For now, let’s talk about what it is. There are four contenders vying for the heavyweight title. All happen to be Latino. All have paid a heavy price to be in the competition. Armando (Edgar Miguel Sanchez) defected from Cuba to make the boxing big time. His father considers him a traitor to the revolutionary cause. Was it worth it? Armando’s starting to doubt it. He’s discovered that boxers don’t age as well as wine. Edgar (Peter Pasco) emigrated from Mexico as a child and blames himself for his mother’s death on the journey to America. He hopes that winning the title will earn him an “extraordinary ability” visa. (In the ring, Juan gives himself the visa’s name — “Extraordinary EB-1”.) Juan (Juan Ramirez Jr.) hates the sport of boxing. But it’s the only thing he knows, and he keeps it up to support his family. Manuel (Rodney Nelson) is living in his champion brother’s shadow — and carries the weight of his sibling’s suicide after a powerhouse punch turned off his opponent’s lights. Permanently. The story builds from there, but I won’t spoil it. Let’s just say it’s far from basic. Kathleen Capdesuner’s direction makes the most of Gonzalez’s shattered structure. In boxing, keeping an opponent off balance is a tried-and-true technique. You feint, get the opponent to lunge, make him lose his center of gravity. That’s what the text demands. That’s what Capdesuner does. Tom Hansen’s set isn’t a realistic boxing ring; it’s more like a boxing ring turned inside-out. (An accurate re-creation would make it hard for the actors to move around on stage.) Caroline Eng’s sound design and Ethan Vail’s lighting smartly evoke the playwright’s half-worlds. The black hole is a key motif in this play. Vail brings it to life without elbowing you in the ribs. The actors make me forget that they’re actors. This doesn’t feel like looking at a performance. It feels like I’m looking at different people. I don’t mean it as a compliment. It’s just a fact. Diego Villada’s fight choreography is brilliant. It’s possible to fake contact — championship wrestling proves it. But Villada takes a different approach. He shows you the movement patterns without impact. But this is boxing not ballet. The fight direction conveys the brutal, visceral violence of the sport. The actors’ moves feel real. (And so does their sense of pain and physical damage.) You can tell that Villada’s fiercely trained them. Beyond accuracy, their punches, blocks and dodges are characterization. The boxers’ moves tell you who they are. (That’s baked into Gonzalez’s script — and he has a keen grasp of boxing’s in-the-moment strategy.) Villada gets it. And makes sure you get it. Gonzalez’s work is a higher level of difficulty. The playwright has a long list of bravura techniques. Mundane realism isn’t one of them. Gonzalez’s speech is heightened. His dialogue feels like poetry — and sometimes feels like a contrapuntal fugue. His well-drawn characters don’t sound like each other. His boxers often talk to people who aren’t there — ghosts, memories. It’s soliloquy in disguise. These X-rays of the soul remind me of Chayefsky at his best. Or Shakespeare. Technique aside, Gonzalez’s implied philosophy sets his work apart. Yes, you heard right. “Philosophy.” “That Must Be the Entrance to Heaven” is a philosophical play with boxing gloves. Its philosophy is why it flips genre expectations. Boxing plays (and movies like “Rocky”) typically get you rooting for one boxer to follow their dreams and win. Even if they lose, they’re still a winner. It’s a feelgood genre, with some notable exceptions like “Raging Bull.” “Entrance to Heaven” is more of an anti-boxing play. (Anti-genre, not anti-sport. Just to be clear.) Gonzalez makes you root for all four contenders. Then he makes you question their dreams of boxing glory. And all dreams, for that matter. “ ... The weight of a dream suffocates the soul,” says the boxer Armando. The price the pugilists pay just to be contenders doesn’t seem worth it. Winning the title doesn’t magically solve anyone’s problems. There are no winners. Even if you lose, you win. “Boxing” is clearly a metaphor for the human condition on this Earth. Life is a struggle. If you’re a Latino on the outside looking in, the struggle is harder. There are winners and losers. Your choices determine which one you are. Time is a one-way street. There’s no going back. Gonzalez contrasts that with another metaphor. A special kind of black hole (i.e., heaven’s entrance) that Juan’s mother told him about when he was a kid. Within its singularity, life isn’t a struggle. Here, every possible choice happens simultaneously. There is no time. And no need to go back. And that’s just the short version. This play has a lot going for it. Sometimes it feels like too much. And that’s my only beef. I sometimes lose the metaphysical thread in all its various complications — and keeping the thread is what I’m good at. Gonzalez needs to play a game of creative Jenga and take out some of the philosophical meandering without making the narrative structure collapse. That’s a surface criticism. A matter of style, not the heart. “That Must Be the Entrance to Heaven” has miles and miles of heart. It’s not afraid to break your heart.Punching on heaven’s doorBoxing meets black holes in Urbanite’s pugilistic premiere ‘That Must be the Entrance to Heaven.’ Courtesy photoEdgar Miguel Sanchez and Rodney Nelson are two of four boxers in “That Must be the Entrance to Heaven,” which runs through July 9 at Urbanite Theatre. REVIEWS IF YOU GO “That Must Be the Entrance to Heaven.” Through July 9. Urbanite Theatre, 1487 Second St. $25-$39. Visit UrbaniteTheatre.com.

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16A EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 rfnftrffrntbrtnnrrrrrf trrtnnrftrnnrrtfnrtnrttrtrnnnbnrfntbft tt rf f nf rfntbnrbtLocated in Sarasota’s eclectic Rosemary District, Villa Ballada will feature 22 contemporary residences above two ground-level retail spaces. Residents will enjoy exceptional urban livingmoments and excitement being in the midst of downtown dining, shopping and cultural happenings. RESIDENCES FROM $840,000 rfn tbbt THE MEADOWSrfnt fffn tb GLEN OAKS MANORbfnn b f tbttt STONEYBROOK COUNTRY CLUBrn bbt rrfn tbbtb SARASOTAf t n tb MOTE RANCHbnnt f tbbtt SARASOTAbf btttt f tbb LAKEWOOD NATIONAL f tbttt DEL WEBBnfn r tbbbb THE LAKE CLUBbffnnt b rrfn tbbtb PRESTANCIAbfnt t tbt FOREST LAKESn t f tbttt SARASOTAb ffrnr tbt THE CONCESSIONf r tbbbb LAKEWOOD RANCH & COUNTRY CLUBf tt ffrnr tbt THE LAKE CLUB fnnn b r tbbbb rf fnf ft 396045-1

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Lakewood Ranch residents Zavier and Jaslyn Lumbsden celebrate their dad, Samuel, at the UTC Dad’s Day Block Party on June 17. 401168-1 YOUR NEIGHBORSJUNE 22, 2023 Classieds 13B Games 12B Real Estate 7B Sports 8B Weather 12BThe Hernandez family might not be huge Tampa Bay Buccaneers fans, as evidenced by Alessandro Hernandez’s Miami Dolphins jersey, but they are fans of Dexter Jackson, the former Buc. “We’re FSU people, and he played at FSU,” said mom Annya Hernandez of Jackson’s time at Florida State University. þ  The Summereld r esidents were at the Mall at University Town Center on Saturday for the Dad’s Day Block Party presented by Tri County Air Conditioning and Heating. And while dad Nick Hernandez was the man of the hour, it was Alessandro who received the special treat. Jackson chatted with the family about FSU before letting Alessandro try on the Super Bowl ring he won with the Buccaneers in 2002 when he was named Most Valuable Player. þ  Jack son, along with three other former pro athletes, were the block party’s main event. Jackson and Shelton Quarles signed autographs on behalf of the Buccaneers and Ruslan Fedotenko and Darren Puppa signed on behalf of the Tampa Bay Lightning. þ  O utside the mall, the crowd was entertained with batting cages, ax throwing and a sword ghting performance by the Steel Ring Academy. Gofruit was selling specialty lemonades with fruity avors like mango and watermelon, and Bathe A Bin pulled up their big, pink truck to demonstrate how a garbage can gets clean again.— LESLEY DWYERAn MVP day for dads Photos by Lesley DwyerSummereld residents Nick, Alessandro and Annya Hernandez pose with Super Bowl XXXVII MVP Dexter Jackson, who let Alessandro try on his Super Bowl ring. Venice residents Chase and Tyson Brown pick up ax throwing quickly. The rst-timers each hit a bullseye. Venice resident Robert Hunek wears a Tampa Bay Lightning shirt to the Meet & Greet with two-time Stanley Cup champion Ruslan Fedotenko and asks him to sign his photo “To Bob.” Sarasota residents Jackie Williams and Josh Friedl sign their waivers and wait their turn to get into the Axe Haus to try ax throwing for the rst time.

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2B EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 rf nttbr rfrrntbtnttb nfff b rrrt fb b tttr 395483-1 r ffntb f bb bb tbftt NOW OPENLakewood Ranch 6600 University Pkwy Trusted Care In Your Neighborhoodbtbn t t t‘’“”‘••• tft–ftfftt––—tftt““‘ Sarasota’s BestVoted One of 28 Years in a Row! r Janet and Curt Mattson Owners Wallcoverings & Blinds, Inc. Since 1989941-925-7800mmwallcoveringsblinds.com 4801 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota Across from The Landings heraldtribune.com WINNER Alustra, Duette Operating Systems PowerView Motorization 399387-1 Julia Hill grabbed Perfection’s lead rope and started running with her. þ  “W ow, she’s fast,” Hill said catching her breath. þ  Hill, who is 9, has been spending every day getting to know Perfection during Hundred Oaks Farm’s mini horse and donkey camp. þ  She , along with other campers, learned how to clean stalls, groom and feed the horses and donkeys, walk them and more. þ  “I lo ve taking care of Perfection,” Hill said. “She’s sweet and a very good runner. She answers you if you ask if she’s a good girl. She’ll stomp her foot or nod.” Campers started their morning June 13 cleaning each of the stalls before grabbing a brush and combing the horses’ and donkeys’ hair. þ  Then the y spent time walking their new miniature friends.— LIZ RAMOSMini tasks, big lessons Photos by Liz RamosMaya Petricca, who is 10, takes her time grooming Summer, starting with her mane before combing her tail. Bruiser takes a break for a snack.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 3B FIRST SARASOTA | THE DOWNTOWN BAPTIST CHURCH BARRY C. BLACK U.S. SENATE CHAPLAIN FEATURING SPECIAL GUEST 9:00 AM MODERN SERVICE 10:30 AM CLASSIC SERVICE A COMMUNITY WIDE CELEBRATION IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN SARASOTA! JOIN US ON SUNDAY, JULY 2 1661 MAIN STREET SARASOTA, FL 34236 WE WILL HAVE INSPIRING PATRIOTIC MUSIC FEATURING THE FIRST SARASOTA CHOIR & ORCHESTRA ALONG WITH A KIDS CHOIR! YOU’LL HEAR FROM SPECIAL GUEST U.S. SENATE CHAPLAIN BARRY C. BLACK, A RETIRED U.S. NAVY REAR ADMIRAL. WE’LL HAVE A SPECIAL TIME OF PRAYER FOR SPIRITUAL AWAKENING IN OUR LIVES AND OUR LAND. DR. JOHN CROSS SENIOR PASTOR 941.365.2846 | FIRSTSARASOTA.ORG 405282-1 rfnrtbtfnn nb bbrbn nfbrfbrb nb‘nf nrtbb’r“”•–b’rttb — rf frnrrftbr fnfrt 404686-1 •‘•rfntb Asher shows 7-year-old Claire Pies some love. Penny Wells, who is 9, hugs Sailor. “He’s very soft,” she says. Julia Hill, who is 9, takes Perfection for a run. “I love taking care of Perfection,” Hill says.

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4B EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 r fr frntbf r f n tb t tn r rfntbr r r r r r r r f f n n t t r r b b fnt ntbtb rfntb bffn rbrntr 402652-1 A Patient Focused, Multi-Specialty Group National Expertise Multiple Locations A Patient Focused, Multi-Specialty Group National Expertise Multiple Locations A Patient Focused, Multi-Specialty Group National Expertise Multiple Locations A Patient Focused, Multi-Specialty Group National Expertise Multiple Locations A Patient Focused, Multi-Specialty Group National Expertise Multiple Locations 404683-1 Betsy Rohel grabbed some dog treats. She walked into one of the meet-and-greet areas at Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue to help train Appling, a 2-month-old puppy. þ  R ohel, who is 9, used the treats to reward Appling for positive behavior, such as sitting. þ  “I lo ve getting to train them,” Rohel said of the dogs. þ  Thr oughout Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue’s kids camp June 12-16, campers worked with the cats, made tie-dye T-shirts and created frozen treats for the dogs. They also spent time reading to the dogs and painting with them. þ  Kinsle y Chadwick, who is 8, loved making posters for each of the dogs. She said one of the dogs, Taylor, was adopted after a family saw the poster.— LIZ RAMOSCamp oers special treats Betsy Rohel, who is 9, tries to get Appling, a 2-monthold puppy, to sit. Rohel says she likes helping train the dogs.Photos by Liz RamosHadley Chadwick, Mia Wolcott and Betsy Rohel make frozen treats for their four-legged friends.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 5B rfnt rffbnntbbrfrfffrfrffrffrfnrtbnrrrbn nnrrnnn nfnbbbbnb nnfnrnntrfbfnntbbrrfrbrrnnnrb nrnnbnnr nnnrrbnf nnffrffbfnntbt‘’bfrbbf “nrbfn nbb rrnb bfnbbrrnf”‘’” ‘‘••–‘••”—rfb f’fffrfr• frf• r• ’‘••’ 405038-1 398848-1 r ffntb ntttr ttr rfrntt r 398852-1 b tttntbt PET ADOPTION MEGAADOPTION FEES WAIVEDJune 23, 24, and 25, 2023Open Fri 10am-6pm | Saturday & Sunday 10am-4pm* r fntb FREE ADMISSIONrffntbnbnrfrfrFlorida State Fairgroundsrfftrr 404610-1 COMMUNITYTHURSDAY, JUNE 22 THROUGH SUNDAY, JUNE 25LIVE MUSIC AT JIGGS LANDING Runs from 5-8 p.m. at Jiggs Landing, 6106 63rd St. E., Bradenton. The live music lineup at Jiggs Landing includes Donnie Bostic (Thursday), Soundwave (Friday), The Divebombers (Saturday) and Al Fuller (Sunday). All shows are free except the Friday and Saturday night shows, which have a $5 cover. For more information, go to JiggsLanding.com. GIRLS NIGHT PICKLEBALL Begins at 6 p.m. at UMR Sports, 131 Upper Manatee River Road, Bradenton. This Girls Night Out pickleball session is a chance for women to learn the game of pickleball with their friends. Registration is $40. To RSVP, call 737-0362. For more information, visit UMRSports.com. þ  S TAR GAZING Runs from 7:30-9:30 p.m. at Greenbrook Adventure Park 13010 Adventure Place, Lakewood Ranch. Lakewood Ranch Community Activities and Sidewalk Science Center present a special look at the night sky with powerful telescopes. Those 8 years old and older can participate. The cost is $5 for residents; $15 for nonresidents. Go to MyLWR. com for more information.FRIDAY, JUNE 23SIGHTS AND SOUNDS Begins at 7 p.m. at the Waterside Place Plaza. The Sights and Sounds music series continues with original songs and works created by artists who have been in residence on the Hermitage’s Manasota Key campus. The Hermitage has provided space and time to many of the exciting musical theater writers working in the industry today. Seating is limited, so feel free to bring a lawn chair. No outside food or drinks are permitted. The event is free. Fore more information, go to MyLWR.com.SUNDAY, JUNE 25FARMERS MARKET Runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Lakefront Drive in Waterside Place, Lakewood Ranch. The Farmers Market at Lakewood Ranch will run year-round every Sunday. Vendors will be oering seafood, eggs, meats, dairy products, pastas, bakery goods, jams and pickles, among other items. Other features are children’s activities and live music. For more information, visit MyLWR.com. YOGA IN THE PARK Begins at 9 a.m. at Waterside PlacePark, 7500 Island Cove Terrace, Lakewood Ranch. Lakewood Ranch Community Activities oers yoga that is free to residents; $10 for nonresidents. For more information, go to MyLWR.com.WEDNESDAY, JUNE 28BINGO FOR ALL Begins at 10 a.m. at Greenbrook Adventure Park, 13010 Adventure Place, Lakewood Ranch. Lakewood Ranch Community Activities hosts Bingo. For more information, go to MyLWR.com.MONDAY, JULY 3FIREWORKS ON THE LAKE Begins at 5 p.m. at Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota. This year’s NBP Fireworks on the Lake event will feature live music by Kettle of Fish, a kids entertainment zone, various food trucks, and an optional 5K run among other activities. The reworks show will begin approximately 9 p.m. General admission tickets are free, though Regatta Island parking is $30; South Island parking is $20 for cars; $50 for RVs. VIP Viewing Experience tickets are $75 per person. For more information, visit NathanBendersonPark.org. BEST BETSATURDAY, JUNE 24 þ  MUSIC AT THE PLAZA Runs from 6-9 p.m. at Waterside Place, 1561 Lakefront Drive, Lakewood Ranch. Singer Mylon Shamble will entertain those who stroll through Waterside Place’s selection of restaurants and businesses. The entertainment is free. For more information, go to WatersidePlace.com.YOUR CALENDAR

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6B EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 rfntbr r tt tntn rfntbr r t tntn r rfnbr t tnn t rfnbr rr tntn trfrr rfntbr t tnn r rfnbr r tt tnttn t rfnbr ttttn rfntbr ‘ tntn ’rr rfntbr rf ttn rr rfnbr rf ttn t““ rfntbr rf‘ ttn rr rfnbr rf ttn ” rfnbr rf““ t ttn rfnbr t tttn t‘ rfnbr tttn tr rfnbr r tt tttn ”r rfnbr rn• t tttn ‘ rfnbr – t tn ‘ rfnbr t ttn frt rfnbr ’rf‘ t ttn ”—t rf’r ttn “rr rfnbr tnt rr rfntbr tn t rfnttbr ttt tttn ttrfrr rfnbr rf‘ ttn ’rf‘ t ttn tt”r rfnbr rr tn ’ rfnbr rf—r t tn r 401872-1

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 7B rf ntbtb rffrnntbbtbbr r rfrffrnntbbtbbrf fntfbftf fffftb ftfb t tft ff Licensed Real Estate Broker Prices as of December 2022 401848-1 square feet of living area. It sold for $342,200 in 2017.LAKEHOUSE COVE AT WATERSIDEDavid and Cristiana Heintz, of Sarasota, sold their home at 890 Seascape Place to Evan Kraus and Patricia Turk, of Sarasota, for $775,000. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,907 square feet of living area. It sold for $468,600 in 2020.COACH HOMES AT LAKEWOOD NATIONALDawna Kelch and Mary Kathleen Gribbins, trustees, sold the Unit 2522 condominium at 5940 Wake Forest Run to Patricia Kehoe, trustee, of Bradenton, for $740,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,108 square feet of living area. It sold for $395,000 in 2021.RIVERWALKDeborah Stickel and Stephen Stickel sold their home at 7337 Loblolly Bay Trail to Claudia and William Hamlin, of Lakewood Ranch, for $717,000. Built in 2000, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,842 square feet of living area. It sold for $407,000 in 2017.CONCESSIONStephen and Jennifer Moore sold their home at 8435 Lindrick Lane to Christopher Brett Berlin and Christie Blomquist Berlin, of Bradenton, for $2.75 million. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, three-and-ahalf baths, a pool and 4,819 square feet of living area.COUNTRY CLUBWalter and Linda Sullivan, of Wenham, Massachusetts, sold their home at 7015 Portmarnock Place to Shunqing and Fen Liu, of Lakewood Ranch, for $2.44 million. Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, fourand-a-half baths, a pool and 4,348 square feet of living area. Frank and Allison Dippold, of Bradenton, sold their home at 13634 Legends Walk Terrace to Christopher Ryan and Amie Nolan Ryan, of Lakewood Ranch, for $1,705,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,648 square feet of living area. It sold for $1,475,000 in 2022. Frank and Sharon Wright, of Sanford, North Carolina, sold their home at 7031 Twin Hills Terrace to Bradley and Monica Lodge, of Lakewood Ranch, for $1,195,000. Built in 2002, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,820 square feet of living area.WATERFRONT AT MAIN STREETMichael and Anne Temple, trustees, of St. Petersburg, sold the Unit 2-303 condominium at 10520 Boardwalk Loop to Walter and Linda Sullivan, of Lakewood Ranch, for $1,399,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths and 2,557 square feet of living area. It sold for $900,000 in 2020. Beatrice Gardner, trustee, of Sarasota, sold the Unit 3-304 condominium at 10510 Boardwalk Loop to Therese Joan Richard, of Saint Paul, Minnesota, for $650,000. Built in 2018, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,400 square feet of living area. It sold for $428,700 in 2019.EDGEWATERStephen Peter Bishop and Robin Michelle Bishop, of Portland, Maine, sold their home at 8119 Waterview Blvd. to Richard Gordon Anderson and Nancy Davis Anderson, of Lakewood Ranch, for $1.22 million. Built in 1998, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,560 square feet of living area. It sold for $710,000 in 2015.TIDEWATER PRESERVEMichael and Carol Burdelik, of Englewood, sold their home at 1106 Overlook Court to Dennis Leonard Staord and Patricia Jean Staord, of Bradenton, for $1.2 million. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, twoand-a-half baths, a pool and 2,249 square feet of living area. It sold for $480,000 in 2015.COUNTRY CLUB EASTRalph Richard Williams and Carol Lynne Williams, of Ontario, Canada, sold their home at 15406 Castle Park Terrace to Robert Enright, of Peneld, New York, for $1.14 million. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,401 square feet of living area. It sold for $622,100 in 2017.RYE WILDERNESS ESTATESBrian and Heidi Allwood sold their home at 611 167th Blvd. E. to Michael and Kristen Klei, of Bradenton, for $1,075,000. Built in 2018, it has ve bedrooms, ve baths, a pool and 4,000 square feet of living area. It sold for $613,600 in 2018.BRIDGEWATERRoland and Stephanie Portner, of Parrish, sold their home at 13408 Swiwater Way to Jerey and Jessica Bouthillier, of Bradenton, for $1,025,000. Built in 2015, it has six bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,930 square feet of living area. It sold for $681,000 in 2015.PRESERVE AT PANTHER RIDGEMichael McSwain and Kerri McSwain, of Parrish, sold their home at 21803 Deer Pointe Crossing to Allison and Frank Dippold Jr., of Lakewood Ranch, for $989,900. Built in 2000, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,932 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $475,000 in 2016.GREYHAWK LANDINGRonald and Sheri Palermo, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their home at 303 Petrel Trail to Richard Paul Jr. and Kimberly Paul, trustees, of Bradenton, for $975,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,863 square feet of living area. It sold for $1,475,000 in 2022. Brian Patrick Bennett and Margaret Earlene Bennett and Peter James Bennett and Danielle Bennett, of Bluton, South Carolina, sold their home at 357 Blackbird Court to Robert and Kelly Brumbaugh, of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, for $815,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,932 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $438,500 in 2017. Erin Louise Wilson and Cary Leigh Jones, of Bradenton, sold their home at 12411 Aster Ave. to Ryan and Katherine Reid, of Bradenton, for $650,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,380 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $378,000 in 2017.ESPLANADERobert and Bonnie Prater, trustees, of Havre de Grace, Maryland, sold the home at 5222 Castello Lane to Shawn and Robyn Johnson, of Bradenton, for $875,000. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, two-and-ahalf baths and 2,581 square feet of living area. It sold for $455,000 in 2018.HERITAGE HARBOURChad Kilmer, trustee, of Bradenton, sold the home at 8309 Heritage Grand Place to Dennis James Costa and Jennifer Ann Marie Costa, of Wausau, Wisconsin, for $835,000. Built in 2013, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,907 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $418,200 in 2013.SUMMERFIELDDavid Schlott and Elizabeth Vanderlaan-Schlott, of Ontario, Canada, sold their home at 12238 Clubhouse Drive to William Frazee and Joseph Feinstein, of Lakewood Ranch, for $815,000. Built in 1999, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,746 square feet of living area. It previously sold for $360,000 in 2013.DEL WEBBSteven Charles Bishop and Joann Bishop, trustees, of Bradenton, sold the home at 6928 Chester Trail to James Donathen and Mary Ellen Donathen, trustees, of Bradenton, for $775,000. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,972 square feet of living area. It sold for $446,100 in 2016. James Donathen and Mary Ellen Donathen, trustees, of Bradenton, sold the home at 6714 Haverhill Court to Robert and Kayla Stein, of Farmington Hills, Michigan, for $599,500. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,543 REAL ESTATEADAM HUGHES RESEARCH EDITORA home in Hawk Island topped all transactions in this week’s real estate. Scott Lidberg, of Gulfport, sold his home at 3715 Hawk Island Drive to Steven and Lee Augustine, of Duncansville, Pennsylvania, for $3,395,000. Built in 2013, it has four bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 4,161 square feet of living area. It sold for $1.5 million in 2019. Hawk Island home tops sales at $3,395,000 RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS JUNE 5-9Courtesy photo This Concession home at 8435 Lindrick Lane sold for $2.75 million. It has three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and 4,819 square feet of living area. ONLINESee more transactions at YourObserver.com

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PURE GOLD PAGE 9B SPORTSJUNE 22, 2023 “ My shot is a weapon. I can really crack one sometimes.”— Lakewood Ranch’s Hayley Roberts SEE PAGE 10BBraden River High rising junior kicker Brunno Reus won a kicking competition at a University of South Florida camp held June 8, kicking a 52-yard eld goal to win it. Reus also hit a 47-yard eld goal in the Pirates’ spring game, a 27-20 overtime road win over Pinellas Park High on May 19. þ  þ  On June 8, Dolores Andrew (two under par) won the Nine Hole Women’s Golf Association individual low net event held on Palm Aire Country Club’s Champions course. On June 14, Bernie Somoza and Bob Webb (three under par) won the Men’s Golf Association best ball event, also held on the club’s Champions course. þ  Former Braden River High pitcher Tyler Dyson made his 2023 debut for the Florida Complex League Nationals (Washington Nationals) on June 6. Dyson had previously not pitched since 2021 because of injury troubles. Dyson has made four appearances as of June 19, holding a 4.26 ERA. þ  Lakewood Ranch-based women’s golfer Jacqueline Putrino will play for Oklahoma State University in 2023. Putrino, who took online classes prior to college and won two individual Florida High School Athletic Association state titles, was previously enrolled at Florida State University. þ  Former The Out-of-Door Academy football Head Coach KB Belton was named the head coach at Lennard High on June 15. Belton coached ODA for one season in 2020; the Thunder went winless in the regular season but made the Sunshine State Athletic Conference playos because of COVID-19 adjustments and reached the SSAC Championship, losing 20-19 to Bishop Snyder High. Fast Break Ryan KohnBrunno Reus RYAN KOHN SPORTS EDITORLakewood Ranch High grad Diego Freyre is betting on himself. Instead of starting his posthigh school soccer career at a college, Freyre has joined the Pro Sportz Alliance program, which brings recently graduated soccer players from the United States to Germany. There they have approximately two months to play games for PSA against Ger man soccer clubs at various professional levels of the sport. At the end of the two months, players who impress the clubs they play against can be offered full-time contracts. “I just hope I’m able to say at the end of this that I made it,” Freyre said. Freyre said he had never heard of the program until he received an email from the organization that asked him to participate. Freyre said he was interested from the jump, despite his lack of German language knowledge and the fact that the twomonth tryout is unpaid, meaning he has to spend his own money to be there. Freyre would do anything to move closer to his dream of playing professional soccer, he said. Freyre said the organization held an initial tryout for the program at Braden River Soccer Club in May to see if any local players were good fits. Freyre performed well enough to earn the invite. Freyre, who didn’t know anyone else in PSA before joining, arrived in Meppen, Germany, on June 10. It’s a small town, Freyre said, and it looks like something out of a “Harry Potter” book, complete with tall, brick buildings and streets paved with Belgian blocks instead of concrete. Freyre said he has been taking German language lessons with the Duolingo app to make conversation with the locals, though younger people in the area know a bit of English. “My first thought was, ‘I’m actually here,’” Freyre said. “‘I have a chance to do this.’ This is all I have wanted to do for a while now. As long as I can get in, I’ll do whatever it takes to make it happen.” On the field, it’s up to each individual to show off his ability — and it gets intense, which is exactly what Freyre wants. “We’re a team, but we’re also playing for ourselves,” Freyre said. “It feels like everyone here played in MLS Next, which is the highest level a junior player can play in the U.S. Every one is good, and we’re trying to get a contract. The competition is great, and I know I have to be at my best to stand out.” Freyre spent his freshman season at Braden River High before playing his final three seasons with Lakewood Ranch. With the Mustangs, a program with perennial state championship aspirations, Freyre earned more playing time as he aged. As a junior, Freyre recorded 18 points (six goals) in 21 games, the third-most on a team that went 18-2-1. As a senior in 2023, the Mustangs’ record fell to 11-7-3, but Freyre led the team with 35 points (15 goals). For Freyre, the chance to continue his career is worth spending his own money and overcoming a language barrier. Freyre was born in Lima, Peru, and leaned the game from his father, Willy Freyre, when he was 3, and played often with his friends and his family. He moved to Lakewood Ranch in 2014, but his affinity for the game never left. “This is my passion,” Freyre said. “To be honest, I can’t always put it into words. It is something that, when I do it, it makes me calm. It takes me away from my problems. I can just be me and go play and win.”Diego Freyre is participating in the Pro Sportz Alliance program for the next two months.Big goals for Mustang grad THE TOOLS TO GET IT DONEDiego Freyre has at least one well-regarded soccer mind who believes he can make it in Germany: Lakewood Ranch High boys soccer coach Vito Bavaro, who instructed Freyre for three seasons. Bavaro said Freyre the necessary skills to make it as a professional overseas — but it will be a challenge. If he applies himself, Vito said, he can overcome it. “It will be totally on Diego whether he makes it,” Vito said. “But he has all the tools to do it. Diego has a great love of the game. He has great feet on the ball, and I think the diversity of play in Europe will enhance his style of play.” Photos by Ryan KohnAs a senior in 2023, Diego Freyre led Lakewood Ranch High with 35 points (15 goals). Lakewood Ranch High graduate Diego Freyre lands a special soccer tryout in Germany.“This is all I have wanted to do for a while now. As long as I can get in, I’ll do whatever it takes to make it happen.”— Diego Freyre

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 9B CALL TODAY FOR YOUR FREE CONSULTATION & XRAYS$2395 Implant, Post, & Crown. Offer expires 6/30/2023LOCATED OFF STICKNEY POINT (941) 260712 401144-1 Electrical Water Treatment SEE HOW MUCH MORE YOU CAN SAVE! The Home Service Pros Who Care LIC # CAC1816020 • PLBG CFC1428223 • ELEC EC13009313 $100 OFF COMPLETE INSTALLATIONof Phyn Plus Smart Water Assistant Saves on Homeowners Insurance Policies FREE WATER ANALYSIS $100 Credit 941.866.6210CALL NOW! 404532-1 The Area’s most Trusted Name since 1974 or visit www.AquaPlumbingSarasota.com PROSE AND KOHN RYAN KOHNSydney McCray was built for greatness. It is a refrain she has heard from her family since she began playing softball. Her father, Rodney McCray, was a professional baseball player best known for running through an outfield wall to make a catch while with the Chicago White Sox organization. Sydney McCray said he instilled that same sense of toughness and determination in his kids. Her brother, Grant McCray, is an outfielder in the San Francisco Giants organization and is ranked as the team’s No. 5 prospect (No. 2 outfielder) by MLB.com. After winning two state championships with Lakewood Ranch High under former head coach T.J. Goelz, McCray headed in 2023 to Florida SouthWestern College, a top-tier junior college program. Other members of the title-winning Mustang teams landed at NCAA Division I programs, but McCray was not bothered by her destination, despite putting up equal or better numbers than many of her high school teammates. As a senior, she hit .438 with three doubles, three triples, two home runs and 18 RBIs while adding 14 steals and playing stellar defense in centerfield. “I’m excited to play softball wherever,” McCray said. “I’m playing at the next level. Not a lot of girls can say that. So, regardless (of school), I come in with the attitude of, ‘I’m going to make this an experience.’” When McCray finishes her twoyear degree in 2024, she likely will have lots of DI suitors. McCray and FSW won the National Junior College Athletic Association National Championship on May 27, defeating Northwest Florida State 10-6. It was the program’s third-straight title. Along the way, McCray earned big-time personal honors as she was named to the NJCAA AllAmerican second team on June 6 for hitting .410 with eight doubles, six triples, two home runs and 44 RBIs, while adding 26 steals. On June 12, the National Fastpitch Coaches Association announced that McCray had been awarded a Rawlings Gold Glove for her centerfield defense. She made a single error in 2023 as she won the first Gold Glove in FSW history. McCray is not surprised that she has dominated. “My dad always tells me that I’m the best player on the field,” McCray said. “So I don’t care what anyone else says. That thought of ‘You are the best’ never leaves my mind. For me, and my brother, too, this is what we do. This is natural.” However, the Gold Glove did mean a lot to her. She was not made aware of winning the award before the official announcement. She was scrolling through social media when she saw the announcement and decided to watch it, not realizing she was a contender. McCray said she shed a tear when she saw her photo pop up. Defensive effort is what her family is known for, she said, and she will go to father and her brother for advice when she needs it. Grant McCray’s advice tends to be more focused on the mental side of defense, while her father will point out physical changes she can make. She’s proud to carry on the tradition the two of them have set. “The king of the grass, the queen of the grass — that’s our thing,” McCray said. “We go get the ball.” McCray’s attitude helped her adjust to the college game, but so did her high school career. Goelz, McCray said, transformed not only her physical skills but the way she viewed practice as a tool. “He taught us to practice faster than we play, so games will slow down for us,” McCray said. “And he engraved the sport’s fundamentals into our bodies. Everything became muscle memory.” She brought those skills to Florida SouthWest, where she said she not only found instant success but instant friends. Everyone at FSW is playing there to prove what they can do. As a result, the school gets a slew of international players. McCray said getting to know her teammates was a rewarding experience, as everyone has a unique story, and one of her best friends on the team, Laura Vigna, played on Italy’s Olympics softball team at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, for instance. McCray said a 5 a.m. conditioning test conducted during the team’s fall season helped bring the team together, and everyone passed the test. They knew that if they could trust each other to do that, they could trust each other to do anything. Wherever McCray goes after FSW, there’s little doubt she will find success at a higher level. I watched in 2021 as McCray, forced out of the Lakewood Ranch lineup by an ACL injury, took copious notes from the dugout every single game and shared them with her teammates postgame. I watched in 2022 as McCray, a speedster, returned from her ACL injury and worked her way back into form. She scored on a passed ball in her first game back and only got better from there. I have seen few athletes more determined to stick around the sport they love, and she’s always improving. So if an All-American spot and a Gold Glove is what she earned as a freshman, her encore as a sophomore will be something special. Ryan Kohn is the sports editor for the East County Observer. Contact him at RKohn@ YourObserver.com. Softball star’s defense is certied gold Courtesy photo Former Lakewood Ranch High softball star Sydney McCray was named to the NJCAA All-American second team on June 6 for her play at Florida SouthWestern College.McCray was named an NJCAA All-American and a Gold Glove winner for her play at Florida SouthWestern College.

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10B EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 Summertime Trial MembershipJUNE 15th AUGUST 15thExperience our Club for aspecial Summertime Membership and enjoytwo months for $475!**$475 of the Summer Trial Membership fee will be applied to The Initiation Fee (of $1,500) for members that choose to sign up for an annual Club Membership by August 31st, 2023. The Initiation Fee of $1,500 is payable one time only, per household for annual members. To sign up please call, email, or visit our Concierge Team941-2 1300 Sarasota Center Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34240 lwrinfo@thepickleballclub.com 405263-1 BUSY BEE TUTORING rfntf bbbnfn rf ntfb rfrrnf tbn rfntf tfffbfntf SWIMMING LESSONS 404292-1 n CONSULTATIONBRING YOUR BOOTY BACKNO NEEDLES – NO DOWNTIME rfn tbbtnn WORKOUT WITHOUT WORKING OUT! rftfbtbbtbb 405057-1 405172-1 What is your best skill? My mobility and my power. My shot is a weapon. I can really crack one sometimes. What have you been working to improve? Adding variety to my game. I’m using drop shots and slicing my backhand. I’m trying to have tools that my opponents do not have. þ  What is y our favorite tennis memory? I played in the Brewer Team Cup in March in Mobile, Alabama. Teams were randomly put together. My team was called the Diamondbacks. We didn’t know each other before then, but we had great chemistry right away and we won the whole thing. We all became close, and it made me look forward to playing more team tennis in college. þ  What ar e your current goals? My goal is to keep improving my game as much as I can. I’ll be focusing on that this summer, developing my skills through training. þ  What is y our favorite school subject? It changes every year, but this past year it was English. I like creative writing. I like when I can add something of my own to an assignment. þ  What is the be st advice you have received? My coach Chris (Marquez) always tells me not to worry about anything unless he tells me he’s worried. It helps me not worry about the little things and focus on the big things that need attention. þ  Finish this s entence: “Hayley Roberts is ” Humorous. I like to laugh a lot. Lakewood Ranch’s Hayley Roberts is a tennis player in the Class of 2025 who attends online classes through Florida Virtual School. She is ranked by the Tennis Recruiting Network as a ve-star athlete and the No. 77 player in her national class as of June 19. þ  When did y ou start playing tennis? My parents (Brian Roberts and Shelley Roberts) put me in a group lesson when I was 5 years old. I just took to it right away, more than the other sports I was trying at the time, like swimming and lacrosse. þ  What is the appe al to you? I enjoy competing. I like that tennis is an individual sport. I like playing for myself, with that responsibility. I like team tennis, too, and I’m excited to play that again when I get to college. þ  Hayley Roberts If you would like to make a recommendation for the East County Observer’s Athlete of the Week feature, send it to Ryan Kohn at RKohn@ YourObserver.com. ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 11B RatedElite Hearing Centersof America Rated Elite Hearing Centersof Am erica r rfntrfbtrfrtrftftfbtftftf fffnntfffnntffrffrtffrff fntbt t fn tbt fnt rfnttbrtf fntbt rfnttbrt r f ntbb bnb rfrntbntrb bnrfrbn rtrbn tnrfnrnbbnrfr rnbnrfrrnfbr r brbbnrfr nbbtbrbb nrfntnrb rnbnn bbbrntb Rated Elite Hearing Centersof America RatedElite Hearing Centersof Am erica r Elite Hearing Centers r rfntrfbtrfrtrftftfbtftftf fffnntfffnntffrffrtffrff fntbt t fn tbt fnt rfnttbrtf fntbt rfnttbrt r f ntbb bnb rfrntbntrb bnrfrbn rtrbn tnrfnrnbbnrfr rnbnrfrrnfbr r brbbnrfr nbbtbrbb nrfntnrb rnbnn bbbrntb DB-AT230602_122431 rf nt bb r rrf r nt f rrf nt nbb rrf nt 405048-1 rfrfrffntb ntbt r bt rfr b tb n ttb n t f bt f f r

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12B EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 rfn ntbtbfnn nf rf nrt rf ntrbr r rrfrt nrb r n rf r ‘’“‘ r ’” ffrb•–— r“ rrf f rrr br ”r frr r nrr “ “t f“ rf rfr r fr“rbt r” f “f”” ” “rb“ rff ”f “nr rr rf rrrr r rbr rb” fr r“r” f r nrr” r fbfr b ‘rfr fr nrr rr ‘r rf r “ r rr r r rb rt “rr r r“f””r ntn”ffr bf “”brb rf– rrf“ •f —t“r br rr— •f r‘ r“ fr rf r“ rrr “b b”r fr”rb ‘”r”r b rf nr”rrt f rfr rf rr nrr ” f” rbr nb rfrf “r n”r ‘rr fr r“r nb ‘br rrr rbr“ r” rfr“r r‘n‘“r r“f ‘rtf”f tft“br • ”r rfr –r— r “rbr rr”r ” trb r ttt ”ff —rbf rfr • r ff ‘r” tr r “f r brf ‘r”r rf ”rb r • “ frrr” r ” frb” —b“rfnt ff nrnn fnfnnrf fffntrnfb ffn ffbf nn rbnt rbn rnnbtbn fbfn rrf r ffrrnff ftrtf 2023 NEA, Inc. r fnt6-22-23 402031-1 rfntbbnftrfnfnfrrfnfrtnff rfntrbrrftrfr rrrat MANASOTA FLOORING INC KITCHEN | CABINETRY OUTDOOR PAVERS 399841-1 THURSDAY, JUNE 22High: 93 Low: 76 Chance of rain: 24%FRIDAY, JUNE 23High: 92 Low: 75 Chance of rain: 45%SATURDAY, JUNE 24High: 92 Low: 75 Chance of rain: 58%SUNDAY, JUNE 25High: 91 Low: 74 Chance of rain: 58%FORECAST NATURE’S BEAUTY WITH RAINFALL SUNRISE / SUNSET MOON PHASES*Rainfall totals from Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport WEATHER YEAR TO DATE: 2023 þ 9 .12 in. 2022 þ 1 4.85 in. MONTH TO DATE: 2023 þ 1. 46 in. 2022 þ 4 .96 in. Gordon Silver captured this photo of two herons in a face-o along Bourneside Boulevard and Masters Avenue in Lakewood Ranch. July 3 Full July 17 New July 9 Last July 25 First Monday, June 12 þ 0 T uesday, June 13 þ 0 W ednesday, June 14 þ 0 Thur sday, June 15 þ 0 F riday, June 16 þ 0 S aturday, June 17 þ 0 Sunda y, June 18 þ 0 .06 þ Sunris e þ Sunset Thursday, June 22 þ 6:35a þ 8:27p Friday, June 23 þ 6:35a þ 8:27p Saturday, June 24 þ 6:35a þ 8:28p Sunday, June 25 þ 6:36a þ 8:28p Monday, June 26 þ 6:36a þ 8:28p Tuesday, June 27 þ 6:36a þ 8:28p Wednesday, June 28 þ 6:36a þ 8:28p Submit your photos at YourObserver.com/contests. All submissions will be entered for the 2023-24 Weather and Nature photo contest. In February 2024, you will vote for your favorite photo, and the submission with the most votes will win a $500 gift card.

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rfntbftfnfftf tfrfntnftftnntnftftntfrfrfnttfbfff tfn rfn tbrbbrbbb bbbbbb bbbbbbbrb bbb bb brbbbbrb brbbbbbbbrb bbbnbbrb bbbnnftftfnttrfnttfrtr r rrf nfrn rfrrrntfrbrnn tnrbfnbr rfrb rtrr rrn ff tbn bb rfntb rf ntrbr nr Items Under $200 ADVERTISE YO UR MERCHANDISE with the total va lue of all items $200 or less in this section for FREE! Limit 1 ad per month,15 word s or less. Price must be included next to each item. No commercial advertising. Ad runs 2 consecutive weeks in 1 Observe r. Call 941-955-4888 Or Email ad to : classified@you ro bserve r. com (Please prov ide your name and address) Or Online at: www.youro bserve r. com Or mail to : The Observer Group 1970 Main St. 3rd Floor Sarasota, Fl 34236 AVIATI O N B OO K, rf ntbr F O R S ALE2 Antique bears that are in a child's antique rocker$185 for all. 941-378-3837 HAVAHART LIVE animal cage trap, new, $35. Car books, mustang/muscle car, (10) $15 each. (941)242-5436 L OC K B O X, rfntb bbfn rrr R C A TV, 55” with remote, cable ready, great bedroom TV. $50 (941)724-9044 Items Under $200 RED PA GES EARLY DEADLINE The Observer Media Group will be closed on Tuesday, July 4th. Deadline for the July 6th editions will be due Friday, June 30th at 2:00 pm. Merchandise Wanted S ENI O R L OO KIN G to purchase precious metals, diamonds, time pieces, coins, jewelry, antique and estate jewelry, and some collectors plates. Personal and confidential. Please call Marc: 941-321-0707 WANTING TO Buy Vintage & Old Costume Jewelry in large amounts. Jane (941) 356-1568 Sporting Goods BEACH’ N RIDES rf frn tb bn r tr tr r r n n r r brrr fr Autos W anted CA SH FOR Y Y O O U U R R C C A A R R We come to you! Ho Ho Buys cars. 941-270-4400. DESPERATELY NEEDED Low mileage, cars and trucks. Also rare or unusual vehicles. Larry 941-350-7993 Autos W anted ST OR AG E FA CILITY Boat / RV / Tr ailer. Secure facility, low monthly rentals, Clark Rd area. 941-809-3660, 941-809-3662. rr fr nr fn tfbn rfrnrtb bnrfrnrtb tbrr r WE BUY c c a a r r s s . . t t o o p p $ $ $ $ p p a a i i d d f f o o r r y y o o u u r r v v e e h h i i c c l l e e s s . . C C a a l l l l H H a a w w l l e e y y M M o o t t o o r r s s : : 9 9 4 4 1 1 9 9 2 2 3 3 3 3 4 4 2 2 1 1 . . Motorcycles rf ntbnrn nnn br bff tfnrf hom e serv ice s Adul t Care Services PER SO NAL C ARE G IVERPrivate care: Meal preparation, errands, shopping, and more. Affordable hourly rates, available weekdays, weekends, and holidays. Minimal shift 5 hours can also provide overnight care. Temporary or long term care. Over 10+ years experience. References available. No new faces, one consistent caregiver. COVID Negative. Call Kati: 941-536-7706. Auto Transport SHIP YO UR car, truck or S UV anywhere in the United States. Great rates, fast quotes. Call Hawley Motors: 941-923-3421. Cleaning BRAZILIAN CLEANING S ervice by Maria. Residential. Meticulous Cleaning. Excellent References. Free Estimates. Reliable. Lic./Ins. 941-400-3342.www.braziliancleaningbymk.com Painting CARLO DA TTILO Painting Licensed & insured. Interior/ Exterior painting including drywall re pair and retexturing. Wallpaper installation & re moval, pressure washing. Residential & commercial, condos. Honest & reliable. Free estimates. 941-744-1020. 35+ years experience. rrr fntbnt rff nrfnnrttt RED PA GES EARLY DEADLINE The Observer Media Group will be closed on Tuesday, July 4th. Deadline for the July 6th editions will be due Friday, June 30th at 2:00 pm. rrr fntbnt

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14B EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 Aluminum 941.650.9790 YoderAluminum.com Dustin YoderOwner / Operator Insured “Specializing in 6” Seamless Gutters” 404969 941.650.9790 YoderAluminum.com Dustin YoderOwner / Operator Insured “Specializing in 6” Seamless Gutters” At torney rrfrfnntbrfr nn405295ntbnbn bfrtfrf rbbbbbbn rbnt trrn rrr nntbnrn rrrrbbbbnbfb Auto Service 405073SELL YOUR CAR! FAST • EASY • SAFE WE COME TO YOU941.270.4400HoHoBuysCars.com 5-Star Rated Autos W anted 404782 DESPERATELY NEEDED Low Mileage, Cars & Trucks. Also Rare or Unusual Vehicles. UNIQUE SPORT & IMPORTS 941-350-7993 Clock Repair 404973 Christo’s Clock Repair Christo’s Clock Repair “IF IT DOESN’T TIC, TOC TO ME.” 941-773-0875 • 941-932-5505 941-773-0875 • 941-932-5505 rfntbnt Computer 404515Computer Repair & Service Virus & Malware Removal / Protection New System Set Up / Data Transfer Networking: Wired/Wireless Installation Data Recovery / Remote Support One-On-One Tutoring / Training Is Your Computer Feeling Sick? Let Us Fix It!Call A GeekCOMPUTER SERVICES (941) 351-7260call-a-geek.netOver 18 yrs serving Manatee/Sarasota Counties Hardware Repair Virus / Malware Cleanup Software & Printer Install New Computer Setups New Purchase Consults Seniors & Beginners Learn Computer Basics Phones/Tablet Help Apple & Microsoft Problems Solved On Site and Off Much More! Call Today! 404377 Doors Sliding Glass Door Repair New Deluxe Rollers Will Make Your Doors Roll Better Than Ever Call Mark 928-2263proslidingglassdoorrepair.com “FIX IT DON’T REPLACE”405074 Furniture Repair 404970 Patio Furniture Repairs.com Patio Furniture Repairs.com rfrntbf 941-504-0903 941-504-0903 FREE PICKUP FREE PICKUP / / DELIVERY DELIVERY • • FREE ONSITE QUOTES FREE ONSITE QUOTES Health Board Certied in the specialty of non-surgical spinal decompressionGive Us a Call We Can HelpFREE CONSULTATION 941.358.2224 Recognized Among the Best Recognized Among the Best Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Physicians in America Physicians in America Midtown Medical Park 1215 S. East Ave. Suite 210 Sarasota, FL 34239www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.comThe Only Thing You Have To Lose ... Is The Pain!! Do You Have Neck or Low Back Pain? Do You Want To Avoid Surgery?404379 Home Services Are You Having Dryer Difficulties? Residential 941-705-5468 Commercial • Dryer hot but clothes still wet after (1) drying cycle?• Dryer gets hot to the touch or doesn’t heat up at all?Take a simple test to see if your vent is clogged. Unhook your dryer vent & compare drying time. 404380 Home Wa tch Pinnacle Home Watch.comDave and Connie Grundy Stop Worrying Stop Worrying About Your Home About Your Home While Away While AwayCALL PINNACLE TODAY! 941-306-1999405075 FIRST RESPONDER OWNED & OPERATED (941)544-0475dan@shorelockhomewatch.com www.shorelockhomewatch.com405076 404971 Irrigation ED’S RAIN MAKER IRRIGATIONIRRIGATION REPAIR MAINTENANCE (941) 725-8100 edsrainmakerirrigation@gmail.com Insured Servicing LWR, Parrish and NE Bradenton404784 Call us today! 941.628.8579www.ezslider.com DON’T DON’T let your let your PATIO DOORS PATIO DOORS be a be a DRAG or your DRAG or your WINDOWS WINDOWS be a be a PANE!! PANE!!Window Repairs • Sliding Glass Door Repairs Sliding Glass Door Deadbolts FREE IN-HOME ESTIMATES 404378 rfntb

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 15B Kitchen/Bath Remodeling 405077 SHOWER & BATH MAKEOVERSwww.showerandbathsarasota.com Cleaned Regrouted Caulked SealedCall John 941.377.2940Free Estimates • Sarasota Resident Since 1974 rfntbb404382 941.966.0333 COMPLETE INSTALLATION PACKAGE$235INCLUDES 2 MOEN STAINLESS STEEL ANTI SLIP CONCEALED SCREW GRAB BARS (16” & 24”)LIFETIME GUARANTEE • LICENSED • BONDED • INSUREDCOVERAGE AREA: LAKEWOOD RANCH TO S. VENICE CALL BEFORE YOU FALL GRAB BARSDRGRABBARS.COM 364556 CALL BEFORE YOU FALL$235 $249* GRAB BARS INCLUDES 2 MOEN STAINLESS STEEL PEEN ANTI SLIP CONCEALED SCREW GRAB BARS 16” & 24” *DRILLING CHARGES MAY APPLY FOR MARBLE, GRANITE OR PORCELAIN. COUPON REQUIRED. COVERAGE AREA: PARRISH TO NORTHPORT 404383 404974 rf nt bt rfnnfttbn 404381 GLENN KROECKER954-1878 (cell) 780-3346Licensed & InsuredTHE GRAB BAR GUY Landscaping & La wn No Job is Too Small!Design • Garden Beds • Landscape • Courtyards Clean-Up • Makeovers • Weeds • TrimmingAllison J. Abizaid Personal Gardening Services | Designer941-400-0431 • gbyallison@yahoo.com • gardensbyallison.com GARDENS 404384 Painting Faulkner’s Faulkner’s Driveways Deck Staining Roof CleaningPainting & Pressure Cleaning Free Estimate941-922-3996 941-822-4270404785 rf rf rf nttbn rff rff 404786 405078 UNIQUE PAINTING & PRESSURE WASHING SERVICESCell 619-405-7650 Home/Ofce 941-758-4840Complete Interior & Exterior PaintingHomes Driveways Sidewalks Tile & Shingle Roofs Pool Cages & DecksFREE ESTIMATES Call Joel, Owner 30 Years Exp. Pl umbing Mark’s Plumbing Service404787Small plumbing repairs. Replace toilets, faucets, water lters, water softeners and repair leaks.RELIABLE • INSURED941-920-8221 Rescreening & Repairs Eldridge Re-Screen941-270-1561 “No Job Too Small”Licensed Insured 404975 Roong 405079 • Aluminum, Vinyl, & Wood Soft & Fascia Repair & Installation • Roong Repair & Installation • Metal Roong & Tile Roof Repair Specialists Kenneth Fuhlman Inc.941-626-3194Licensed & Insured CCC 058059 CBC 1253936 Screening 404976 Transportation 405080 BLACK LABEL CAR SERVICELuxury for LessBooked Referral Program Next Ride with Booked Referral All Airports, Hourly & Tours www.blacklabelcarservice.com 1/10/23, 10:25 AM chrome_qrcode_1671726737617.png https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?tab=rm&ogbl#search/royaltreasurecasino%40yahoo.com?projector=1 1/1 10% off941-248-4734 Windo ws Res./Com. Lic./Ins. Sunset Window & Pressure CleaningFormerly known as Sunrise Windows Serving Longboat Key Since 2005 Call Tibor for FREE ESTIMATES | 941284 5880rfnftfbb$150 UP UP TO TO 25 25 STANDARD STANDARD WINDOWS WINDOWS INCLUDING SCREENS, TRACKS, MIRRORS & FANS SPECIAL$500 www.sunsetwindowcleaningsrq.com senior citizen discount. rf rfntbrf ntbbt bbtr

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16B EAST COUNTY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023 rrfntb ttrrrfntb bbtbbfntb Our Experience is Your Best Asset Contact us Today to Discuss Your 2023 Homeownership Goals rfntbbbt P.S. e Key to Your Real Estate Success 401668-1 rn BUILD YOUR CUSTOM DREAM HOME nb GOLF COURSE VIEW f‘’f“ POOL WITH PRESERVE VIEW ”nf“n ’ LAKE & PRESERVE VIEWS