When âWhat Ifâ Never Happened - Lakewood Ranch

Page 12 

Come to Main Street at 

Lakewood Ranch and 

Enjoy the New Businesses! 

Page 7 

When “What If” Never Happened 

Page 21 

Winning by Hitting Singles 

Random XOXO: 

New Hot Spot on 

Main Street 

Around the Ranch 

The Community Newspaper of Lakewood Ranch 

www.aroundtheranch.com January 21-February 3, 2009 

By Ernie Soller, 

Community Correspondent 

Jeweled “rock star” bag at Random 

Photos by Ernie Soller 

Do you remember the TV commercial 

- the one which showed a young woman 

using a new product, and then telling 

two of her friends, who told two of their 

friends, who told two of their friends... 

on and on until the TV screen was 

full of the faces of smiling women, the 

RANDOM TO 4 

Gulf Coast Builder’s 

Exchange Moves In 



Commercial Builders Help Each 

Other and the Community, New 

Executive Director Pitches In 

Mary Dougherty-Slapp, the new 

executive director of the Gulf Coast 

Builder’s Exchange, has a history of being, 

shall we say, able to pull the sword 

from the stone. Formerly with the 

Home Builders Association of Manatee 

County, and a former deputy county 

BUILDER MOVES TO 9 

Lakewood Ranch is pleased to welcome Ed’s Tavern to Main Street! Stop by to hang out with old friends or make new ones, while enjoying tasty and reasonably priced food and 

thirst-quenching libations. Cheers! For more about what’s new on Main Street, see pages 12-13. 

From left, Summerfield residents Donna and Bob Woodward, with Sea Star 

Café owners Casey Anderson and Matthew Cardwell. Photo by Ernie Soller 

Sea Star Café: 

Shortcake French Toast, 

Espresso, and $2 Wine?! Read on! 



What makes a restaurant a winner in a location where hits have been 

hard to come by? What changes can be made to a place to make it more 

customer-friendly? The owners of the Sea Star Café in Lane Plaza, on 

Palmbrush Trail, (right behind the AAA office on the southeast corner of 

State Road 70 at Lakewood Ranch Boulevard) think that they know how 

to accomplish the transformation, and their success is showing. 

Ask Donna and Bob Woodward, Summerfield residents who came 

SEA STAR CAFÉ TO 5


The Community Newspaper 

Lisa M. Barnott 

Editor 

(lisa.barnott@lakewoodranch.com) 

Leah Blair 

Assistant Editor 

(leah.blair@lakewoodranch.com) 

Ernie Soller 

Contributing Writer 

(esoller@hotmail.com) 

Janell Armstrong 

Proofreader 

(janell.armstrong@lakewoodranch.com) 

Jan Hatfield 

Digital Village News 

(jan.hatfield@lakewoodranch.com) 

Publishing Staff 

PUBLISHER’S CORNER 

Lori Basilone 

Community Programs 

(lori.basilone@lwrtownhall.com) 

Takisha Parrish 

Governance Meetings & Calendar 

(tpar.@lwrtownhall.com) 

Sharon Murray 

Graphic Designer 

(smurray@bradenton.com) 

Jeanne Benson 

Design Editor 

(jbenson@bradenton.com) 

Terry Tramell 

Circulation 

(ttramell@bradenton.com) 

Community Services Town Hall 

907-0202 

LWR Common Area 

Maintenance Requests 

907-0202 

Lakewood Ranch Medical Center 

782-2100 

LWR Information Center 

907-6000 

Manatee County Government 

748-4501 

Braden River Post Offi ce 

(800) 275-8777 

Editorial Board 

January 21-February 3, 2009 

Lisa M. Barnott, Milt Flinn, Rex Jensen, 

Lori Joyce, Brian Kennelly and Beth Sunday 

The leading source 

for local news in 

Lakewood Ranch. 

Call 1-800-748-6666 to subscribe! 

Around the Ranch offices are at 14400 Covenant 

Way, Lakewood Ranch, Fla, 34202. The editorial 

phone number is 757-1532. Fax press releases to 

757-1533. The e-mail address is aroundtheranch @ 

lakewoodranch.com. 

Advertising Sales/Circulation Around the Ranch 

is published by Lakewood Ranch Media which is 

solely responsible for its content. The Bradenton 

Herald is responsible for the printing, distribution 

and sales production of this newspaper. For 

circulation issues, please contact Terry Tramell, 941- 

748-0411 ext. 5300, e-mail ttramell@bradenton. 

com. For advertising information, please call Lynn 

Bruneau (708-7755); lbruneau@bradenton.com. 

The articles and editorial viewpoints contained in this 

publication are written solely by Lakewood Ranch 

Media with the assistance of the Community Services 

Office and other offices in Lakewood Ranch, none of 

which are associated with the Bradenton Herald. 

The contents of the Around the Ranch newspaper, including information 

by Around the Ranch correspondents, and other material 

contained in Around the Ranch are for informational purposes only 

and do not render medical advice or professional services. The information 

provided through Around the Ranch should not be used 

for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. Articles contained 

in this newspaper are not a substitute for professional care or 

services. If you have or suspect you may have a problem, you should 

consult a professional service provider. Never disregard professional 

medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have 

read in Around the Ranch. 

Delivered to 60 locations 

in Lakewood Ranch 

and Mid-County 

To advertise call: 941-708-7755 

email: lbruneau@bradenton.com 


The Community Newspaper of Lakewood Ranch 

View Around the Ranch at www.aroundtheranch.com 

Be mine with these divine valentines 

$ 

7 

OFF 

Any purchase of $35 or more 

* 

*ARVAL* 

Valentines 

Limited Edition 

Love Monkey 

*May not be combined with any other offer. 

Prior sales excluded and may not be used 

for purchase of giftcard. Expires 2/28/09 

(Located next to Five Guys Burgers&Fries) 

TheShoppes at UniversityCenter•8451 Cooper Creek Blvd.• (941) 351-5556 

NP8094 

Se Habla Español 

Accepting New Patients 

Most Insurance Accepted 

Jorge E. Alvarez, MD, FACOG 

Jennifer R. McCullen, MD, FACOG 

M. Joanne Bevers, CNM, MSN 

Jill S. Miller, ARNP 

Yvette Brouse, CNM 

Delivering at... 

Lakewood Ranch Medical Center 

• Pregnancy 

• Annual Well Women Exams 

• Gynecological Surgery 

• OB/GYN Certified essure s e ® 

permanent birth control 

• Urinary Incontinence 

• Bone Densitometry 

Dedicated to a Lifetime 

of Women’s Health 

Lakewood Ranch Medical Office Bldg. 

8340 Lakewood Ranch Blvd. • Suite 240 

M-F 9am-5pm • Closed 12-1pm 

OB/GYN Women’s Centre • 907-3008 

NP6803 

NP5414 NP6804

JANUARY 21-FEBRUARY 3, 2009 BRADENTON HERALD SUPPLEMENT • AROUND THE RANCH 3 

Happenings Around the Ranch 

Carter James Blair, son of Lakewood Ranch Events Manager Leah Blair and her husband Nick, joined 

the SMR family in November. Carter enjoys eating, sleeping, wearing his parents out, and attending 

polo matches at the Sarasota Polo Club on Sundays. Courtesy photo 

Emma Grace Sunday, daughter of Beth Sunday, marketing manager for Lakewood Ranch Commercial 

Realty, and her husband Jesse, made her joyful appearance in October. Emma too enjoys eating, sleeping, 

but especially likes it when her daddy “airplanes” her over his head. She laughs and laughs! Courtesy photo 

Come and watch the “game of kings” and enjoy beautiful weather, fresh air, and the relaxed camaraderie 

of your friends and neighbors for a mere $10 at the Sarasota Polo Club at Lakewood Ranch. Gates open at 

11 a.m.; the games start at 1 p.m. For more information, visit www.sarasotapolo.com. Photo by Amanda 

Nelson 

Peyton Lee Gray, son of Schroeder-Manatee Ranch Staff Accountant Michelle Gray, and her husband 

Duane, also arrived in November. “Peyton,”...hmmm...is it possible that his parents are Colts fans? Well, 

at 10 lbs., 2 oz., and 22 inches in length at birth, maybe football is in the little guy’s future! Courtesy photo 

Local band One Night Rodeo won GAC cable television’s “Next GAC Star” a few months ago, but were not 

too busy to come out and help the Lane Plaza Too businesses, located on the corner of Lakewood Ranch 

Boulevard and State Road 64, with the Toys for Tots charity event held Dec. 20. Courtesy photo 

The Wellness Community, a non-profit organization providing free support to anyone affected by cancer, 

recently broke ground on its new eco-friendly facility on five acres in Lakewood Ranch. The state-of-the-art 

facility will incorporate the latest wellness factors in the 11,000 sq. ft. LEED gold-designed structure as 

well as in the location and programming.

4 AROUND THE RANCH • BRADENTON HERALD SUPPLEMENT JANUARY 21-FEBRUARY 3, 2009 

RANDOM FROM 1 

images multiplying as they “told two friends”? 

Well...the phenomenon is happening again 

on Main Street in Lakewood Ranch with the 

opening of Karen Robbins’ new store, Random 

XOXO. I stopped by the store one evening to see 

what all the excitement was about, and met Melissa 

Carlton. Carlton lives in Wauchula, a bit of a 

hike from Lakewood Ranch. She had been shopping 

on the Ranch at Crowder Bros. Ace Hardware 

that Saturday, and had been told by another 

shopper, whose necklace she had admired, that she 

just HAD to get over to Lakewood Ranch Main 

Street and check out the new Random store. So 

there she was, oohing and ahhing – and buying 

– a really cool elastic-banded watch – for the grandiose 

price of $30! 

What does a Philadelphia girl with years and 

years of management experience in the retail business 

do when the corporate powers decide that 

they no longer have a place for her? She opens 

up her own store, that’s what! Robbins had a talk 

with Brian Kennelly and Diane Lee of Lakewood 

Ranch Commercial Realty on the Tuesday before 

Thanksgiving, signed the lease papers that day, 

and opened up her store on Black Friday with just 

jewelry and hats to sell. Opening up Random is 

a dream come true for Robbins, who says she’s 

always liked Main Street. She loves the fact that 

she is no longer running in and out of airports, 

is home every night of the week, and lives close 

enough to her new store that she can ride her bike 

to work. Her husband Carl, son Jesse and daughter 

Karleigh have supported her in her new venture, 

too. Carl supervised the installation of the fi xtures, 

electrical, phone lines, etc., and daughter Karleigh, 

who will continue to work in the store, even 

brought her best friend along to check out the merchandise. 

(And she told two friends...!) Karleigh 

says that what she loves about her mom’s store is 

that there is something different there every day. 

The merchandise at Random IS different. Karen 

Robbins stocks a colorful mix of bags, for example, 

which run the gamut from the fairly conservative, 

to those with a decidedly unconservative zebra 

print background, sporting tattoo-style designs 

enhanced with colored jewel accents. And colors 

are all over the map when it comes to the scarves 

that Robbins sells. They can be had in all types of 

fabrics and all kinds of colors, from soft and quiet 

to wild and crazy. 

And different is good, right? Robbins makes the 

case that her fashion merchandise line of jeans 

(from size “0” to size “18”), T-shirts, jewelry, hats, 

bags, and bath and beauty products will appeal to 

customers from 10 to 92. The jeans cost between 

$24 and $35, and nothing in the store sells for 

more than $60! Robbins felt that there was a need 

on Main Street for a store that carried great fashion 

at a value price. Random is the result. 

While at the store, I observed people of just about 

every age group coming in to look and buy. I even 

brought my aunt in to inspect Robbins’ stock. The 

result? My aunt Irene bought a ring, earrings, and 

a bangle watch. Her total cost...$60 plus tax! 

So, if you are looking for fashion at a value price, 

and don’t have the inclination or feel the need to 

drive to Tampa or Miami or Atlanta, check out 

the new Random XOXO store on Main Street in 

Lakewood Ranch. Robbins and her staff will be 

happy to brighten up your day. 

We’re the Nation’s Leading CD Locator Service 

3 MONTH 

FDIC INSURED CD 

8.00% A.P.Y.* 

*Annual Percentage Yield (APY). Minimum $10,000. Yields and deposits are 

s ubject to availability and may change without notice. Penalty for early 

withdrawal. D eposits exceeding $20,000 may be eligible for a yield other 

t han the advertised yield. FDIC insured to $250,000 per institution. 

Promotional incentive may be included to obtain yield if available. We are a 

Com pany representing Insurance A gencies and B anks across the country. 

www.cdcentral.com 

Long Term Savings 

Accounts 

6.00% 10.00% 

to 

Guaranteed Annual Interest* 

*These are insurance products, interest bearing tax deferred saving 

a ccounts with enhanced benefits. Minimum $25,000 Qualified Accts. 

Minimum $10,000 N on Qualified A ccts. We are a Company representing 

Insurance A gencies and Banks across the country. *Some restrictions 

may apply. Ask your local representative for full promotional details. 

CALL TODAY FOR YOUR LOCAL 

1-800-290-6358 

REPRESENTATIVE 

NP8096


SEA STAR CAFÉ FROM 1 

in for breakfast the other day. They’ve lived 

in Lakewood Ranch for quite a while - long 

enough to probably be considered a couple 

of the Ranch’s “original” residents. Bob’s 

comment on the Sea Star Café? “It’s our 

favorite restaurant!” 

Sea Star Café owners Casey Anderson and 

Matthew Cardwell, for starters, are not exactly 

“newbies” in the restaurant business. 

Cardwell, a native of Montreal, studied hotel 

and restaurant management at the University 

of Nevada-Las Vegas. He met his 

wife, Adrienne, there, at the Mirage Hotel, 

where she was working with the hotel’s 

marine mammals. They eventually landed 

in our area, where Matthew worked as the 

general manager of a chain restaurant. 

Anderson, a Jersey girl who came to Florida 

at an early age and worked in restaurants 

since she was a kid, grew up in Manatee 

County, graduated from Manatee High, 

went to Manatee Community College, 

married her firefighter husband, Ben, and 

met Cardwell while working in marketing 

and training for the same restaurant chain. 

They started discussing opening their own 

restaurant, decided on Lakewood Ranch 

because of the location, along with the fact 

that the building was relatively new and 

had both indoor and patio dining areas, 

and the Sea Star Café is the result. 

What makes it special? According to Anderson, 

service in a restaurant is the biggest 

factor in making it a success, coming before 

atmosphere, price, and even the food 

itself - and at the Sea Star, customers have 

come to enjoy fast, efficient, and cheery service. 

The staff is very accommodating, and 

will try their best to take care of the customer. 

They are happy to deal with menu 

substitutions or special requests for beverages. 

(They can accommodate the finicky 

tastes of coffee lovers with fresh-brewed 

regular or decaf coffee, or, if those choices 

aren’t adequate, the Sea Star provides both 

espresso and cappuccino.) 

The food, of course, is, after service, what 

keeps customers coming back for more, 

and Anderson and Cardwell don’t stint 

on quality or quantity. The food varies 

from the simple oatmeal or bacon-andeggs 

breakfast or burger, to items such as 

eggs Benedict, or the “Godfather Salad,” 

made from fresh ham, salami, provolone 

cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onions and Italian 

dressing. The Sea Star serves wraps, 

too, such as the “Nova Wrap,” made from 

smoked salmon, cream cheese, tomatoes, 

red onions, and capers. (I’ll have to try that 

one next.) A tempting dessert treat is the 

“Shortcake French Toast.” This consists of 

French toast, made from a specialty bread 

such as banana nut, or strawberry, served 

warm, and topped with a scoop of vanilla 

ice cream, whipped cream, and fresh fruit. 

And, the fruit at the Sea Star is fresh - ask 

for fruit to accompany your meal, and what 

you get definitely did not visit the inside of 

a can on its way to your plate! 

With their repeat customer clientele 

growing with not only Lakewood Ranch 

residents and, now, snowbirds, Anderson 

and Cardwell have begun to allow the Sea 

Star Café to “come out of its shell” a bit 

by serving evening meals on Thursdays 

from 4:30 to 9 p.m. Here’s where they are 

showing even more creativity in their menu 

choices, while keeping prices down to a 

mild roar. The Sea Star’s dinners are priced 

at $9.95- $10.95 with a house or Caesar salad 

made with fresh, homemade dressings. 

(The best dinner deal in town, according 

the proprietors.) For this price, you can get 

an 8 oz. New York strip with potatoes and 

vegetables, a pasta dish, chicken, or how 

about grilled salmon with pineapple salsa 

and steamed veggies? Some of the Thursday 

evening dinners are “themed” - Mexican 

night, an Italian night, or a “homestyle” 

menu, loaded with comfort food. If 

you bring the kids for a family Thursday 

night out, the price for their dinners is only 

$3.99, including a beverage. 

Now, about those $2 glasses of wine. The 

owners of the Sea Star Café have revived a 

tradition that has long existed in areas with 

restrictive drinking laws - the art of BYOBbring 

your own bottle. For the nominal 

charge of $2 per person, your server will 

uncork your favorite wine for you and serve 

it in an appropriate wine glass at your table. 

They provide the glasses - you just bring 

the bottle. 

The owners of the Sea Star have, in 

order to reward repeat customers, instituted 

a Sea Star punch card program - after the 

purchase of six meals, the seventh is free 

- and you won’t have to keep track of the 

cards, they’ll do it for you. What’s not to 

like? 

If you haven’t tried the Sea Star Café, 

what are you waiting for? They are open 

from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through 

Sunday, and also on Thursday evenings 

for dinner. 

Before 

• Height Adjustable - Ceiling 

M ounted Racks 

• 11 Sizes to Customize Any Garage 

• Ffits over most Garage Doors 

• All white Commercial Grade Steel 

• Utility Hooks/ Safety Nets Available 

• Prices Range from $149 - $319 

• Installation Available from $59 - $89/ rack 

Storage Solutions For 

Garage And More 

Save $66* 

*On 2 or more 

rackʼs installed! 

CRC 1328638 Licensed & Insured 

After 

Store up to 600 lbs. per 

rack overhead 

“Integrity Our 

Guiding Principle” 

941.876.0280 

www.resistallsystems.com 

THERE WAS ATIME WHEN CUSTOMERS ENJOYED 

BANKINGWITH PEOPLE THEY KNEW AND TRUSTED 

Lakewood Ranch Team (Pictured L-R)-Bruce R. Willingham,Melody Kelley,Jeannine Kubiak, Linda 

Braithwaite, JeffPhillips, Jeremy Gilmore, Maria Elena Oda, Gail McDanell andPatriciaRamthun 

GREAT IDEAS STAD THE TEST OF TIME 

We invite you to get back tobasicsand safe,sensiblepractices 

at your local community bank - LandMarkBank. 

Our customers enjoy stabilityand personalized service. 

High Yield Checking •Mortgages • Commercial Lending 

Free Wi-Fi Access • Computer/Internet Station •Drive-thruATM 

NP8093 

Located at: 

6020 Lakewood Ranch Blvd 

(Cornerof Lakewood RanchBlvdand SR 70) 

941/758-5111 

www.landmarkbankfl.com 

NP8092 

OtherLandMark BankConvenientLocations 

544 S. Washington Blvd • 3939 McIntoshRd•5851 Fruitville Rd • 8444 S. TamiamiTrail


No Payments, No Interest Until Jan. 2010* With Next Day Delivery! 

6-pc Island House 

Bedroom 

$1299 

Create a tropical escape in your own home with the exotic 

design of our “Island House” bedroom collection. Beautifully 

detailed 100% hardwoods with a tropical motif lattice and rich 

hand rubbed detailing come together to create a tropical 

paradise. You get the triple dresser, mirror, queen sleigh bed, 

which includes headboard, footboard and matching rails plus 

the matching nightstand, matching 5 drawer chest also 

available at $399. Queen Sleigh Bed $499! 

Join us for Our 

W inter Clearance! 

Savings in every 

Department! 

Come by & 

SAVE BIG! 

This Danish design recliner with 

matching ottoman in glove soft 

bonded leather. Your choice of 

colors. 

only 

$399 

$1888 

This beautiful leather matched sectional offers the soft hand of 

leather with the benefit of protection. Casual contemporary styling 

with plush back, clean upholstered arms and subtle frame shaping 

will add style and comfort to any room. The left side has a recliner 

and the right side has either a queen sleeper or recliner your 

choice! Your choice of colors red, brown or bone. 

$599 

This 100% leather group features a soft hand 

with the benefits of protection. The casual 

Leather Sofa 

contemporary styling with the subtle frame 

and pillow top seats will add style and 

$1199 

comfort in any room! 

Leather Sofa & Loveseat 

Plenty of storage with this 3 piece 

wall system featuring the left and 

right pier units with the TV unit in the 

middle. Made of all wood with a 

medium hand rubbed finish offer 

style and value. 

TV armoire in all 

wood with all 

hand rubbed finish 

offering style and 

value. 

$1199 $699 $499 

only 

$999 

This smart Ashwood bedroom set offers lines and style that will 

light up any bedroom. You get the complete Queen bed, 

Dresser and Mirror and then receive the nightstand FREE! 

$699 

$399 

4 - Piece Bedroom 

7 Piece Set 

This Kathy Ireland bedroom set Seville features a warm blend 

Beautiful slate dining set with table & six 

of soft tones and granite color tops illustrates the European 

matching upholstered chairs. 

country style of this collection. You get the dresser, mirror, 

headboard and one nightstand all for $699. 

www.furnwarehouse.com 

NP9015


Do you remember the winter of 2006/’07 

here in Lakewood Ranch? Do you remember 

the angry crowds of Country Clubbers 

marching on the Town Hall waving their 

golf clubs menacingly in the air, and chanting, 

“We want our palms trimmed!”? Do 

you remember the frantic calls to the county 

from frustrated Summerfield residents 

who wanted to know whom they should 

call about shutting the irrigation water off 

along Lakewood Ranch Boulevard so that 

they could cross the street without having 

to use a kayak? 

If you can’t remember these events ever 

happening, it is probably because they 

never actually took place. They never took 

place because a certain individual named 

Richard Coleman stepped up to the community 

line of scrimmage, picked up the 

ball of government in Lakewood Ranch, 

and ran a broken field route around whatever 

opposition came his way to make sure 

that our community government functioned 

for Lakewood Ranch residents. He 

then hung on to that ball until an administrative 

touchdown could be made in the 

selection of a new community manager 

who could take over the day-to-day business 

of making our local government work 

for Lakewood Ranch residents into the future. 

Coleman recently “retired” from his 

posts as CDD District 5 board member 

When “What If” Never Happened 



and chairman of the Inter District Authority, 

with the thanks of every CDD in Lakewood 

Ranch, as well as the IDA. (Note: 

The word “retired,” in quotation marks, is 

used here because men like Dick Coleman 

don’t just “retire”; they keep coming back 

and contributing to the community.) 

Coleman had the right background to 

deal with the problems that faced our community 

during that period. A Massachusetts 

native with 42 years of experience in 

labor law, he had been the labor relations 

manager of Harvard University, and also 

had been a labor advisor to Scott Paper 

Company. He was uniquely qualified to 

take on the challenges faced by Lakewood 

Ranch in early 2007. How he came to be in 

the position to make thing work in Lakewood 

Ranch is a story itself. 

Originally, he didn’t plan to move to 

Lakewood Ranch. His first choice as a 

place to live and play golf after his years 

of active lawyering had been North Carolina, 

but then came the realization that 

that state possessed a particularly bad attribute 

- it did get cold there, and the folks 

in North Carolina got snowed on at times, 

so a decision was made to look at a Florida 

gated golf community somewhere between 

Tampa and Naples, and Lakewood Ranch 

became his new home. 

In October of 2001, Dick got involved 

in the neighborhood committee, 

becoming vice chairman in early 

2002, and worked with the safety 

committee and the Town Hall committee 

as part of his CEVA (Country 

Club Edgewater Village Association) 

duties. In 2004, he moved 

to District 5. When the transition 

from Schroeder-Manatee Ranch 

(SMR) control to CDD control of 

Lakewood Ranch government took 

place, Coleman found himself on 

the CDD board for District 5. As 

he puts it, SMR’s Rex Jensen told 

him: “If you’re interested, I’ll inflict 

it on you.” Coleman became the 

District 5 representative to the new 

Inter District Authority, and, after having 

missed an IDA meeting in May of 2006, 

he returned to find that in his absence, the 

board had elected him chairman. 

As chairman, Coleman found himself responsible 

for the maintenance department, 

which was then headed by Louis Lawman. 

Lawman resigned in February of 2007, and 

Coleman found himself running the maintenance 

department, in addition to his other 

IDA responsibilities. It became his biggest 

challenge as the chairman of the IDA. 

At the time that Lawman left Lakewood 

Ranch, a number of problems had arisen, 

one of which involved a lawsuit relating to 

the purchase of a “bucket truck.” Coleman 

worked through these problems, and anything 

else that came up in the day-to-day 

operations of Lakewood Ranch, essentially 

becoming a full-time boss of operations 

from February to May of 2007. He credits 

Walt Maslo and Paul Padova of the maintenance 

department with assisting him in 

making sure that services to residents came 

off with nary a hitch. 

With the IDA’s selection of Bob Fernandez 

as community manager in the spring 

of 2007, Coleman’s time as the “tsar” of 

WHAT IF TO 10 

NP7649 

NP8095


Every End is a New Beginning 

By Jan Hatfi eld, 

Digital Village Manager 

The start of a new year is something 

I always look forward to. It is a time to 

reflect on the past year and set some goals 

for the New Year, both personally and 

professionally. It is with a lot of excitement 

that Diane and I will be working with a 

committee on enhancements for Digital 

Village. Our goal is to provide easier and 

quicker navigation to your governance 

and other information, while still keeping 

the resident information private. We will 

also begin converting more of the general 

information to the new software, allowing 

for even more enhancements. The “District” 

and “Village” pages will be among 

the first areas the committee will review. 

We are very encouraged by the number 

of users for Digital Village. In the past year we registered 830 new users. 

Digital Village is a convenient information tool for the residents 

and it is our goal to identify key people to update and maintain this 

information. With more than 485 mini Web sites, we can always use 

more volunteers. Our training classes at Keiser University are for anyone 

that is interested in volunteering to be a DV administrator. For DV 

administrators already trained who need a refresher or have specific areas 

in which they need assistance, please contact Diane, diane.brown@ 

lakewoodranch.com or 757-1538 to schedule 1/1 training time. 

The Stewardship District, which includes The Lake Club and Country 

Club East, is our newest resident section on Digital Village and is 

growing in membership. Soon we will be recruiting new DV administrators 

to maintain the various neighborhood pages in these communities. 

Training the DV administrators in the Stewardship District will be a 

first for us all, as it was set up in the new software. If you are interested 

in volunteering as a DV administrator for your neighborhood Web page, 

please contact Jerree Amodio, jerree.amodio@lakewoodranch.com. 

To register for Digital Village go to www.lwrdv.com using Internet 

Explorer, then Click on register >> fill out the information; 

we will verify your residency and then approve. 

If you are a renter, please provide the name of the owner of the home 

in the notes section. 

Happy New Year! 

Jan Hatfield Digital Village 

Welcome our newest merchants on Digital Village! 

Visit their pages on www.lwrdv.com for more 

information and LWR discount offers. 

Lane Plaza 

11530 Palm Brush Trail 

(Lakewood Ranch Boulevard 

& State Road 70) 

Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 

For Plaza rentals, call Peter Lane, 

941-928-2720 • 928-7326 

Lane Plaza Too 

1821 - 1865 Lakewood Ranch Blvd. 

(Lakewood Ranch Boulevard 

& State Road 64) 


For Plaza rentals, call Peter Lane, 

941-928-2720 

Outdoor Kitchen & Cabinets 

Lane Plaza Too (Lakewood Ranch 

Boulevard & State Road 64) 

1823 Lakewood Ranch Blvd. 


941-744-5000 

20 Minutes to Fitness 

Lake Osprey Plaza 

6255 Lake Osprey Drive 


First session free, call 941-309-8989 

Workers 2 Go 

5229 Office Park Blvd. 

Bradenton, FL 34203 

Haitham Charles, 941-355-8880 

Relay For Life 

of Lakewood Ranch 

April 17-18, 2009 

Lakewood Ranch 

High School 

Statements A Full Service Salon 

1825 Lakewood Ranch Blvd. (Lakewood 

Ranch Boulevard & 

State Road 64) 


941-747-6600 

www.relayforlife.org/lakewoodranchfl 

Contact Information: 

Jan Hatfield, 941-757-1536 

jan.hatfield@lakewoodranch.com 

Visit i the Digital i lVillage…www.lwrdv.com


BUILDER MOVES FROM 1 

manager in DeSoto County, she 

had once found herself in Tallahassee 

on a county lobbying 

mission. Being confident that her 

work was done and the legislation 

she favored was assured of passage, 

she had gone back to her hotel 

room to shower and enjoy dinner 

when she got a call from one 

of her colleagues. The proposed 

legislation was being debated, 

and the county’s legislative position 

had become less than solid. 

She rushed back to the capitol, 

with hair not perfect and makeup 

not applied, buttonholed several 

legislators, and achieved a compromise 

favorable to the county’s 

needs. 

She found herself in a perhaps 

less serious, but equally vexing 

set of predicaments on the day 

that the Gulf Coast Builder’s 

Exchange moved into their new 

headquarters in the Bank of 

Commerce building on Enterprise 

Circle in Lakewood Ranch 

Dec. 2. She had agreed to be interviewed 

that morning about the 

Exchange’s move from downtown 

Sarasota to Lakewood Ranch, a 

move prompted by a desire to relocate 

to a place which was easily 

accessible for members from all 

over the Manatee-Sarasota region. 

Just as soon as I began to ask her 

a few questions, a new copy machine 

was wheeled in, and, just 

as quickly, the technicians from 

the office equipment company 

found that there was no dedicated 

“CAT5” line available in the new 

offices for the machine. Right after 

that, the telecommunications 

guys arrived to install phones, but 

found that the lines they needed 

to use were not available either. 

Then came more furniture, etc., 

Photo by Ernie Soller 

etc., etc. Through it all, Dougherty-Slapp 

kept her cool, calling 

contractors, checking with her 

colleagues, and fielding my questions 

– all in a whirlwind of quiet 

activity. Oh, and she had to get 

ready for a GCBE social/networking 

party to be held the next 

evening. 

The Gulf Coast Builder’s Exchange 

is an association of contractors 

who work in the commercial 

construction field in Manatee 

and Sarasota counties. The group 

was founded in 1952 to provide 

a forum for networking among 

commercial construction firms, 

with a primary purpose of promoting 

contractors working with 

other contractors in a cooperative 

manner that would benefit all 

concerned. Currently, one of the 

larger problems facing commercial 

contractors in this market has 

to do with the messed-up financial 

market, a situation which has 

dealt some contractors a kind of 

double-whammy. A contractor 

will take out a loan to finance a 

project, and then the bank will 

announce that, since the property 

may be worth less than originally 

estimated, the bank may ask the 

contractor to come up with an 

immediate large cash payment, 

in order to sustain the loan. 

Otherwise, the bank might call 

the loan, putting the contractor 

in a precarious position. In one 

particular case that Dougherty- 

Slapp mentioned, the bank stated 

its intention to call the loan, even 

though the contractor was willing 

and able to come up with a large 

cash amount! With such obstacles 

to their success, is it any wonder 

that the Gulf Coast Builder’s Exchange 

has hired a seasoned advocate 

such as Dougherty-Slapp 

to argue their case before the 

various agencies responsible for 

regulating their activities. 

Although times are difficult for 

the members of the Gulf Coast 

Builder’s Exchange, the members 

are still pitching in to help out 

where help is needed in their communities. 

Recently, the Y found 

that the roof on a transitional 

living facility which it operated 

was in serious need of repair. 

GCBE members got together and 

gave the facility a new roof. 

As for the networking and social 

party which the Exchange 

members held, I called Dougherty-Slapp 

the day after the party 

and asked her about how successful 

and well-attended the 

party was. She replied that not 

only had more than 200 people 

attended the event, they all 

brought at LEAST one toy to be 

given to area kids – some brought 

bags of them – so many toys, in 

fact, that some of them had to 

be removed to another room to 

make sure that there was enough 

room for the partygoers. Even 

in tough times, it seems that 

these Gulf Coast Builder’s 

Exchange folks want to make 

a positive impact in our 

community.


Melt Fat… Tighten Skin… 

In 1 Outpatient Laser Procedure 

John V. Dunne, MD, FACS, 

Medical Director 

(941) 907-3400 

www.Erasersinc.com 

CoolLipo is a trademark of CoolTouch Inc. 

by Mac Carraway, President, SMR Farms 

BODY ENHANCEMENT CENTERS, INC. 

8340 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Suite 290, Bradenton 

MONEYMAN PAWN 

WE HAVE A WIDE SELECTION OF DIAMONDS & GEMSTONES 

Trade in old or even broken jewelry 

Platinum & Gold jewelry repair 

Certified GIA diamond expert & jeweler 

on site to inspect & FREE cleaning 

Diamonds 1 carat or larger & all cuts. 

START YOUR VALENTINES DAY 

LAY-A-WAY TODAY! 

For Your Valentine! 

10% OFF 

EVERYTHING IN 

THE STORE 

PLUS 

FREE 

POLISHING CLOTH 

M ust present A d. L imit one item. 

E xp. 02/14/09 

1608 53rd Ave E (Sr 70) • Bradenton 

(Mon.-Fri. 9AM - 5:45PM Sat. 9AM - 4:45PM) 

www.mmpawn.com (941) 727-0222 

NP6805 

NP9074 

Neighbors Doing Business 

with Neighbors 

The Southwest Florida area in general, 

and Manatee and Sarasota counties in 

particular, are wonderful places to live and 

work - no secret there. 

Those of us who have been here for a 

pretty good while are especially confident 

that the natural charms, resources, attractions 

and economic engines of the area will 

continue to make this a premier destination 

for any foreseeable future. 

But what about now, during this little 

economic disturbance we are in? There is 

not much to say in generalizations that can 

address all of the ways it is affecting people, 

families and businesses, but there are a 

couple of thoughts that come to mind. 

The first - Don’t worry about what you 

can’t control - is a cliché of course, but 

clichés are clichés because they contain 

at least kernels of truth. A great example 

of this for me as a grower is the weather. 

I mean what good does it do to worry if 

there is a freeze or a hurricane on the way? 

None. I learned pretty quickly however 

not to confuse worry with preparation, 

planning and hard work. We plan and 

prepare for bad weather to the best of our 

ability. But sometimes the weather (e.g. 

four hurricanes in row) is simply beyond 

any preparation. Economic hardships often 

have uncontrollable causes and similar 

painful results. So ignoring worry, working 

hard, and embracing planning for how 

to manage in the meantime - with hope 

and a positive outlook - is critical. 

The second - Do business with your 

neighbors - is something that can always be 

revisited. Our larger community is remarkable 

for its ability to support charitable and 

civic causes, and for rallying in times of 

hardship. A key way we can all participate 

in this economy is to make every effort to 

do business with our neighbors. With the 

fantastic diversity of business interests in 

the area, you are virtually assured of finding 

an experienced and ethical business in 

Manatee and Sarasota counties to provide 

for whatever you need. And for every dollar 

you spend locally, a job is supported, 

along with all of the other economic benefits 

that come from such activity. 

This is an important time of year and an 

important time in our economy to be very 

grateful for our community and for each 

other. I urge you to abandon worrying, 

to work vigorously, to be confident about 

our mutual future, to give yourself a break, 

and to reach out to your neighbors and to 

local businesses as you carry out your day 

to day activities. It can and will make a difference. 

For more information, visit www.smrfarms.com. 

Sarasota Ranch Club 

Magnificent and Majestic 

custom-built equestrian estate 

exudes beauty throughout. 

Professionally decorated by 

Deeia Topp and accented with 

the finest finished, artistic iron 

details and amazing hand 

painted murals. A chefʼs arena 

that will delight any cookʼs taste 

buds and complete with 

state-of-the-art appliances 

and hidden pantry. 

$1,895,000 MLS# A3897939 

Sarasota Polo Club 

Custom built 6000+sf 

residence in the heart of the 

Sarasota Polo Club. 

Equestrian perfect for the 

Gentleman Horseman or 

avid Polo Player. 

$4,400,000 

MLS# M577429 


Country Club 

Custom Masterpiece poised 

on almost one-acre w/golf 

course/lake views 

encompassing 7600+/-sf. 

Exquisitely finished & 

Vantage Home Automation 

System taking you into the 

millennium. 

$4,699,000 MLS# M573583 

WHAT IF FROM 7 

operations in Lakewood Ranch came to an 

end, and, once again, he could think of actually 

making a tee time - on time. 

As to future development and growth of 

our community, Coleman is optimistic. 

He credits SMR with doing a good job of 

looking ahead in its development plans, 

noting that SMR plans for things like the 

corporate park, schools, churches, and 

commercial areas well in advance, so that 

Lakewood Ranch’s growth is anything 

but haphazard. As for what he thinks that 

Lakewood Ranch needs, he replied that 

our town could use a couple of good chain 

restaurants, as well as a large bookstore. 

Regarding the push among a number 

of residents for incorporation, Coleman 

noted that incorporation would mean 

that residents would not have to pay the 

county as much for services, but, on the 

other hand, would have to compensate 

for lost county services by coming up 

with money to pay for these services on its 

own. Incorporation, if it comes, Coleman 

thinks, will come as a result of 

citizens wanting it for the community 

identity that it would give Lakewood 

Ranch. 

NP9099 

8325 Lakewood Ranch Blvd. • Bradenton, FL 34202 • 941.907.9595


IN AN EMERGENCY, 

SECONDS COUNT 

Fast lifesaving techniques and advanced technology make 

the difference at Lakewood Ranch Medical Center’s ER. The 

ER team is prepared to treat life-threatening emergencies 

any time, day or night ... and we’re right here at home. 

EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE AT 

LAKEWOOD RANCH MEDICAL CENTER 

– Cutting-edge cardiac response team, exceeding 

goals established by the American Heart Association 

– Advanced cardiovascular lab, promoting excellence 

in cardiac care 

– 5-Star-designated stroke center -Agency for Healthcare 

Administration (ACHA) 

– American Stroke Association performance award-winner 

– All ER and cardiovascular lab RNs have ongoing advanced 

training in emergency care, specific to life-threatening 

illnesses and injuries 

– Additional patient safety enhancements developed 

to protect you and your loved ones 

8330 Lakewood Ranch Boulevard, Bradenton, FL 34202 

www.lakewoodranchmedicalcenter.com 

Physicians are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Lakewood Ranch Medical Center. 

The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. 

NP7650

Come to Main Street at Lakewood 

Ranch and Enjoy the New Businesses! 

Compiled and photographed by Rachel Gray 

Now Open: 

Ed’s Tavern 

Hours: Daily from 

11:30 a.m. – 2 a.m. 

Phone: 941-907-0400 

Web site: www.edstavernlwr.com 

Contact: John or Jackie Breiner 

(owners) or Rob Chiossi 

(general manager) 

Date opened: Dec. 26, 2008 

Description: Neighborhood 

tavern with fresh food, cold 

drinks and great atmosphere! 

Random 

Hours: Monday – Saturday 

from 10a.m. until 9 p.m., and 

Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. 

Phone: 941-306-5833, 

Fax 941-306-5834 

Contact: Karen Robbins 

Date opened: Nov. 28, 2008 

Description: “Mission Statement” 

is specifically about providing “great 

fashion” at “terrific prices, quality, 

and value.” The most trendy, sophisticated 

fashionable accessories; 

such as handbags, hats, jewelry, 

custom photo cards, jeans priced 

from $24 to $35 and T-shirts and 

tanks priced from $29 to $39. 


Booksellers 

Hours: Monday – Thursday, 10 a.m. 

until 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. 

until 9 p.m., Sunday, noon until 5 p.m. 

Phone: 941-907-9487, 

lakewoodranchbooks@gmail.com 

Web site: www.lakewoodranchbooks.com 

Description: Independent bookstore 

featuring books, newspapers,magazines 

and unique gifts 

Opening date: Nov. 6, 2008 

The Stacked Heel 

Hours: Monday through Saturday, 

10 a.m. until 9 p.m., Sunday, 

Noon until 5 p.m. 

Phone: 941-907-0842 

Contact: Manager Kelly 

O’Hara, owner Janie Pieper 

Date opened: Nov. 7, 2008 

Description: Brand name 

shoes, apparel and accessories for 

women and girls; we are getting 

new merchandise every day! 

Also New to Main Street! 

Lakewood Ranch Main Street merchants 

are now offering gift certificates redeemable 

at 25 businesses! Web site visitors can purchase the 

certificates through secure checkout, print them 

immediately or e-mail them to family, friends and 

colleagues. The program makes it it easy for visitors 

to enjoy Main Street’s 

vibrant restaurant and retail scene while infusing 

more money into the local economy. 

Main Street merchants include a wide variety 

of local businesses; for more information visit: 

• www.giphter.com/73-group/ 

520-lakewood-ranch-main-street 

• www.mainstreetatlakewoodranch.com 

Alta’s Exceptional Florist 

Alta’s Wedding & Event Coordination 

Hours: Monday and Tuesday, 10 a.m. 

until 8 p.m. 

Wednesday – Saturday, 

10 a.m. until 9 p.m. 

Sunday, noon until 5 p.m. 

Monday – Saturday: Floral designers 

on site from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Phone: 941-957-1339 

Web site: www.anexceptionalflorist.com 

Date opened: July of 2008 

Description: Full service florist 

(providing delivery to all of Sarasota 

County, Longboat Key, Lido Key, Siesta 

Key, Casey Key, Osprey, Lakewood 

Ranch and Southeast Bradenton). 

Floral designs, loose wrapped flower 

bouquets, blooming and green plants, 

seasonal plants, orchids and bromeliads. 

Complete wedding and event 

coordination. 

Same day delivery available for orders 

placed by 1 p.m. For Lakewood Ranch 

destinations, we can accept same day 

delivery orders up to 3 p.m. Designers 

are not on site on Sundays; for Sunday 

delivery, orders must be placed by 

Saturday. 

Coming Soon: 

Anytime Fitness 

Phone: 941-981-3821 

Contact: Sandy Plummer - owner 

Date opened: Expect to open first 

quarter of 2009 

Description: an adult, co-ed, 

24-hour fitness facility featuring 

cardio, strength training equipment, 

free weights, personal training and 

special programs throughout the year. 

We have group exercise and boot camps. 

Courtesy photos

14 AROUND THE RANCH • BRADENTON HERALD SUPPLEMENT JANUARY 21-FEBRUARY 3, 2009


Every taxpayer age 70-1/2 and older (“eligible 

taxpayer”) is required to withdraw 

an amount equal to his or her annual required 

minimum distribution (“RMD”) 

from their retirement account (IRAs, Roth 

IRAs and SEP-IRA [if the taxpayer has 

retired]). The RMD must be withdrawn 

on or before Dec. 31 each year. In August 

2006, the Pension Protection Act of 2006 

(“PPA”), amended Section 408(d)(8)(A) 

of the Internal Revenue Code (“IRC”) to 

permit eligible taxpayers to make a direct 

transfer of up to $100,000 from their retirement 

account to charity without including 

the distribution as taxable income. 

The PPA provision expired on Dec. 31, 

2007. 

The Emergency Economic Stabilization 

Act of 2008 (“EESA”), signed into law on 

Oct. 3, 2008, extended the charitable giving 

options contained in the PPA through 

Dec. 31, 2009. Subsequently, 2009 tax 

planning opportunities were further expanded 

by enactment of the Worker, Retiree, 

and Employer Recovery Act of 2008 

(“WRERA”) (still awaiting the President’s 

signature at the time of publication). 

WRERA suspends the minimum required 

distributions in 2009 for eligible taxpayer’s 

(otherwise a 50 percent tax would apply to 

the amount not withdrawn). 

TAX BENEFITS: 

• IRA Rollover Qualifies for RMD 

Despite the fact that RMD is calculated 

on Jan. 1 of each taxable year, a large number 

of IRA owners receive their RMD at 

the end of the fiscal year. This allows the 

IRA assets to continue growing (in most 

years) tax-free before they are required to 

be withdrawn (on or before Dec. 31). 

Under EESA, instead of receiving the 

RMD and including the funds into taxable 

income, a taxpayer may contribute 

(through a charitable rollover) his or 

her RMD to a charitable organization. 

The charitable rollover will be limited to 

$100,000 per taxpayer (a husband and 

wife may contribute $100,000 each from 

two separate IRA accounts). While the 

charitable rollover will not be eligible for 

a corresponding charitable deduction, the 

taxpayer must still establish that the contribution 

was a “qualified charitable distribution” 

under IRC Sec. 408(d)(8)(B). 

Expanded Opportunities for 

Charitable Planning With Your IRA 

• State Tax Impact 

States fall into several different categories 

with respect to the charitable IRA rollover. 

States either: (i) do not provide for charitable 

income tax deductions; (ii) permit 

charitable deductions, but use the federal 

adjusted gross income as an initial reference 

number for determining state tax; or 

(iii) do not recognize the IRA charitable 

rollover and require IRA reporting for state 

income tax purposes. Under each scenario, 

a taxpayer will benefit from the IRA rollover 

by reducing their state taxable income 

and reducing their state taxes. 

• Income Tax Benefits 

An eligible taxpayer who receives a distribution 

from his or her IRA must include 

the funds as part of their gross income. 

A corresponding charitable contribution 

will provide a charitable deduction for the 

amount transferred to charity. However, 

an eligible taxpayer in one of the highest 

income brackets may not be able to totally 

offset the tax associated with the RMD 

received with a corresponding charitable 

contribution. Eligible taxpayer can deduct 

(i) cash contributions in full up to 

50 percent of their adjusted gross income; 

(ii) property contributions in full up to 30 

percent of their adjusted gross income; and 

(iii) contributions of appreciated capital 

gains assets in full up to 20 percent of their 

adjusted gross income. Charitable contributions 

in excess of the limits can be carried 

over for a maximum of five years. 

Utilization of a charitable rollover will 

allow a taxpayer to avoid (i) inclusion of 

the RMD in their adjusted gross income 

(“AGI”); (ii) the payment of federal and/ 

or state income tax on the RMD; (iii) the 

phase out of income tax exemptions resulting 

from higher AGI levels, (iv) increased 

social security taxation (avoidance of the 

50 percent or 85 percent level of taxation); 

and (v) the higher capital gains tax rate (15 

percent). It will also benefit eligible taxpayers 

who utilize the standard deduction 

(the charitable deduction is an 

itemized deduction) and would 

otherwise not be able to benefit 

from the charitable deduction 

on their income tax return. 

ELIGIBLE CHARI- 

TABLE ORGANIZA- 

TIONS: 

Both the PPA and 

EESA require that the 

charitable rollover 

be made to an IRC 

Sec. 509(a)(1) 

or IRC Sec. 

170(b)(1) 

(A) charity 

(collectively a 

“charitable organization”). 

Eligible entities 

include 

a (i) 

community 

foundation; 

(ii) private 

foundation (which 

meets the conduit 

rules); (iii) college 

or university scholarship 

fund; or (iv) relief 

organization. The charitable 

rollover may also be utilized to satisfy 

a charitable pledge (IRS Notice 2007-7). 

In contrast, a charitable rollover may not 

be made to (i) an IRC Sec. 509(a)(3) supporting 

organization; (ii) IRC Sec. 4966(d) 

(2) donor-advised fund; (iii) private foundations 

(which do not meet the conduit 

rules); (iv) split interest trusts (charitable 

lead and remainder trusts); or (v) pooled 

income fund. 

LIMITATIONS AND RESTRIC- 

TIONS: 

Charitable donations from 403(b) plans, 

401(k) plans, pension plans, and other retirement 

plans are ineligible for the tax-free 

treatment. Distributions must be made 

directly from the IRA trustee payable to 

the charitable organization. The recipient 

organization should issue an acknowledgment 

for the IRA rollover. The acknowledgement 

should include (i) the date of the 

gift; (ii) the name of the IRA custodian; 

(iii) the amount of the gift; (iv) that the 

gift is a qualified charitable distribution 

under IRC Sec. 408(d)(8)(A); and (v) state 

that no goods or services were provided in 

exchange for the gift. 

CONCLUSION: 

For most eligible taxpayers, in 2009 

more income tax benefits will be derived 

by making a charitable contribution directly 

from his or her retirement account 

than by receiving the RMD directly and 

make a corresponding charitable donation. 

The tax benefits include avoidance of: 

(i) the payment of federal and/or state income 

tax on the RMD; (ii) the phase out 

of income tax exemptions resulting from 

higher AGI levels, (iii) increased social 

security taxation (avoidance of the 

50 percent or 85 percent level of taxation); 

and (iv) the higher capital gains tax rate 

(15 percent). 

Marc Soss is a Lakewood Ranch resident 

and a director with Cohen & Grigsby, PC. 

His practice areas are estate and tax planning; 

probate, trust and guardianship 

administration and litigation; and 

corporate and commercial transactions. 

Soss has published articles and been quoted 

in the Naval Reserve Magazine, the Florida 

Bar, Military.Com, Forbes.Com and CNN 

Business.

COMMUNITY EVENTS 

Lakewood Ranch Safety Committee Government Meetings 

January/February 2009 


A safety committee is maintained in each 

Lakewood Ranch village. These committees 

have representatives from each neighborhood 

committee within the villages. 

The committees monitor safety within the 

community and implement changes where 

required to improve personal and home 

safety and security. The safety committees 

meet periodically to maintain a process 

for residents to report and resolve safety 

concerns. 

Security Reminders 

Manatee County Sheriff Reminder 

Residents should always call the Sheriff’s 

department whenever suspicious behavior 

is observed. County Commissioners must 

approve funding increases to add deputies 

for increased patrols in Lakewood Ranch. 

Compared to other Manatee districts, 

Lakewood Ranch’s level of incidents is low. 

If no reports are received, the county will 

have no basis to consider additional staff. 

Greenbrook and Summerfield/Riverwalk 

residents should also contact Wackenhut 

Security. 

Recommended Security Actions 

Actions can be taken by Lakewood Ranch 

residents to reduce incidents within the 

neighborhoods. These actions include: 

1. Lock cars parked in driveways. 

2. Remove garage door openers from cars 

parked outside overnight. 

3. Don't leave iPods, cell phones or other 

valuable items in parked cars. 

4. Set security alarms when away from 

the home (even for a short time). 

5. Lock doors when working outside 

around the home or in the backyard. 

6. At night, lock doors between the garage 

and the house (use a deadbolt). 

7. Lock bikes when not in use. 

8. Close garage doors. 

9. Keep post lamps in working order; add 

landscape lighting, and keep carriage lights 

on during evening hours. 

10. Add the telephone numbers for the 

sheriff to your cell phone speed dial for 

quick access. (Greenbrook and Summerfield/Riverwalk 

residents should also add 

the telephone number for Wackenhut to 

their home phone speed dial.) 

Reporting of Safety Concerns 

Make sure that you know the process to 

report safety concerns to ensure resolution. 

If you see suspicious activity, report it as 

follows: 

1. Call 9-1-1 for emergencies 

2. For non-emergencies, call the Sheriff 

at 941-747-3011 

3. Always notify neighborhood committee 

members and, if a program exists, your 

neighborhood watch block captain. 

4. In Greenbrook and Summerfield/Riverwalk, 

always contact Wackenhut Security 

at 941-921-4475 

Safety information is available on 

Digital Village on the summary page 

for each village and the home safety & 

security page. 

Please note that all meetings will be held at Town 

Hall unless otherwise specified. 

January 21 

7 p.m. Orchid Island Neighborhood 

Neighborhood Election 

907-3287 

7 p.m. SRVA Safety Meeting 751-3408 

4 p.m. Augusta/Oakmont 

Neighborhood Election 

907-6999 

Meeting 

January 27 

373-6499 

5 p.m. Palmer’s Creek/Teal Creek 1 p.m. CEVA Board Meeting 

Neighborhood Election 907-0202 

907-9771 

7 p.m. Sound Neighborhood Election 

7 p.m. Lakes Neighborhood 

907-1227 

Committee Meeting 751-0117 

January 28 

January 22 

4 p.m. Sandhills Neighborhood 

7 p.m. Weston Neighbor 

Committee Meeting 

hood Meeting 907-8980 

907-0820 

7 p.m. SRVA Board Meeting 907-0202 7 p.m. Cove Neighborhood Election 

January 26 

907-6766 

2 p.m. Country Club Modifications 

January 29 

Meeting 907-0202 6 p.m. GBVA Board Meeting 907-0202 

4 p.m. Canterbury/Laurel Valley February 2 

Neighborhood Meeting 

907-3287 

8 a.m. Country Club Landscape/ 

Maintenance Meeting 907-4227 

5 p.m. Westchester Neighbohood 

Election 388-0754 

7 p.m. Brier Creek Neighborhood 

5:30 p.m. Hollow Annual 

Meeting 504-5759 

Election Meeting 752-4812 

6 p.m. Canterbury/Laurel Valley February 4 

Ranch Events 

Music on Main 

First Friday of each month on Lakewood Ranch Main Street 

Farmers Market 

Every Saturday from 8am to 1pm on Lakewood Ranch Main Street 

Novmeber 15- April 25 

Service Clubs and 

Business Organizations 

(The membership policies of the national service club are determined 

by each organization. Visitors are welcome.) 

Business Networking Group 

(Dana Kiner, 724-0399 

dkiner@markpriley.com) 

Business Network International BNI 

(Mark Sharman, www.bnilakewoodranch.com) 

Kiwanis of Lakewood Ranch 

Mike Blair, 941-756-6474 ext. 1324 

mike@mcsgroup.com 

Call or e-mail for meeting times. 

Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance 

(870-0909); www.lwrba.org, 

or info@lwrb.org 

LWR Professional Women’s Networking Group 

(Kathi Bahler, 941-538-8800, www.LRPWNG) 

Meets every Wednesday at River Club restaurant 

$11 cost includes lunch. RSVP by Tues. p.m. 

Lakewood Ranch Business Club 

Chris Robertson, info@LakewoodRanchBusinessClub.com 

Marketing Strategies for Entrepreneurs: 

GKIC Southwest Florida Chapter 

Monthly lunch meetings from 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m., 

Holiday Inn at LWR. Lunch free for first meeting. 

Ernesto Fernandez, 941-923-0283 for reservations 

The Breakfast Club 

Jeannine Kubiak, 941-400-4767 

jeanninek@landmarkbankfl.com 

Meets 8 a.m. Thursdays at First Watch 

at Lakewood Ranch 

The Exchange Club of Manasota East 

(Bill MacArthur, 726-4562, 

BMacarthur@aol.com) 

Meets 8 a.m. each Wednesday 

at River Club Restaurant 

The Rotary Club of Lakewood Ranch 

(Barbara Jones, President, 365-4617) 

Meets Thursdays, noon 

Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club 

www.lakewoodranch-rotary.com 

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Lakewood 

Ranch/East Manatee Chapter 

Stephen F. Schlueter, 447-5362 

or steve@affprod.com


ALEX KARRAS LINCOLN MERCURY 

NOW IS 

THE BEST 

TIME TO BUY! 

STOCK #S9092 

VIN# IL-9G622224 

Employee 

Price 

2009 

LINCOLN 

MKS 

M SRP $38,465 

$34,962.95 

SIGNATURE 

LIMITED 

2008 

LINCOLN 

TOWN CAR 

STOCK #Z9020 

VIN# 3L-9R606612 

FINAL 

EXTENDED 

DAYS 

‘TIL THE END OF THE MONTH, JANUARY 31 ST , 2009 

2009 

LINCOLN 

MKZ 

MSRP......................... $32,535.00 

Employee Price............. $29,508.84 

Less Customer Cash........-$2,000.00 

Less Ford Credit 

Bonus Cash.................. ...-$500.00 

Price $27,008.84 

2008 

LINCOLN 

MKX 

STOCK #L8366 

VIN #8X651236 

MSRP......................... $43,340.00 


Less Customer Cash....... -$4,000.00 

Less Ford 

Credit Cash.................. ...-$500.00 

Price $37,448.90 

2009 

MERCURY 

MILAN 

STOCK #X8219 

VIN #8BJ18401 

MSRP......................... $ 36,425.00 

Employee Price............. $ 33,137.45 

Less Customer Cash....... -$2,500.00 

Less Ford 

Credit Cash.................. ...-$500.00 

Select Retail Owner Loyalty .....-$750.00 

Price $29,387.45 

2009 

MERCURY 

MARINER 

STOCK #B9013 

VIN #9R609767 

MSRP......................... $21,080.00 


Less Customer Cash........-$2,000.00 

Less Ford 

Credit Cash.................. ...-$500.00 

Price $16,479.34 

WAC, PLUS TAX, TAG, TITLE & DEALER FEES OF $399.00 

(941) 756-4004 1-800-606-4049 

www.alexkarraslm.com 

6760 - 14th Street West - On US 41 

2 miles North of the Airport 

R45350 

STOCK #R9023 

VIN #9KJ03915 

Photos for illustration purposes only. 

M SRP......................... $22,620.00 


L ess Ford Credit Cash.........-$500.00 

L ess Select Retail 

Owner Loyalty ..................-$750.00 

Price $19,401.24 

YEAR END EVENT! 

“FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY.” 

* Retail Only, Prices exclude $399 Dealer fee, taxes, tags and state fees. Credit Approval/insurabil ity determined by 

Ford Credit. Offer ends January 31, 2009. 

NP7546


JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009 CLUB CALENDAR 

See the Club and Organization Directory for contact information. (Meeting location appears in first listing of the month for each club.) 

January 21st – Third Wednesday 

• Business Leaders 7 a.m. 

Lakewood Ranch Town Hall 

• Exercise Group 7:30 a.m. and 9 

a.m. Woodland Baptist Church 

• Legacy Men’s Golf Association tee times 

by appointment Legacy Golf Club 

• Lakewood Ranch Lightning 9 a.m. 

Lakewood Ranch Athletic Center 

• Pan Club 12:30 p.m. 


• Mah Jongg at One 1 p.m. 


• Women’s Book Club 1 p.m. 


• Coed Soccer 5 p.m. Greenbrook Park 

• Community Emergency Response 

Team (CERT) Membership Meeting 

7 p.m. Lakewood Ranch Town Hall 

January 22nd – Fourth Thursday 

• Runners’ Club 6 a.m. Braden 

River Nature Park 

• Women’s Golf 7:30 a.m. Legacy Golf Club 

• Kiwanis noon Lakewood Ranch 

Golf and Country Club 

• Rotary noon Lakewood Ranch 


• Bridge on Thursday 12:30 p.m. 


• St. George’s Dragon Ladies Mah Jongg 

1 p.m. Lakewood Ranch Town Hall 

• Lakewood Ranch Lightning 5:45 p.m. 


• Women’s Meditation Club 7 p.m. 


January 23rd – Fourth Friday 





• Mom’s Kinder Music Class 9 a.m. 

Woodland Baptist Church 

• Art Club Class 1 p.m. Lakewood 

Ranch Town Hall 

January 24th – Fourth Saturday 

• Runners’ Club 6 a.m. Summerfield 

Park Pavilion 

• Coed Soccer 8 a.m. Greenbrook Park 

• Ladies Soccer Club 8 a.m. Greenbrook Park 

• Volleyball Club 10 a.m. Summerfield Park 

• VENETIAN MASQUERADE 

BALL 7 p.m. The Lake Club 

January 25th – Fourth Sunday 

• No events scheduled 

January 26th – Fourth Monday 

• A.M. Rotary 7:30 a.m. Chef’s Table 







• Art Club 1 p.m. 


• LWR Men’s Book Club 2 p.m. 


• Boy Scouts 7 p.m. 

Lakewood Ranch High School 

January 27th – Fourth Tuesday 

• Runners’ Club 6 a.m. 

Braden River Nature Park 

• Women’s Tennis 8 a.m. 

• Tuesday’s Bridge Club 1 p.m. 


• Lakewood Ranch 

Lightning 5:45 p.m. 


• Scrabble Club 6:30 p.m. 


January 28th – Fourth Wednesday 



• Legacy Men’s Golf Association 

tee times by appointment 

Legacy Golf Club 



• Pan Club 12:30 p.m. Lakewood 


• Women’s Book Club 1 p.m. 




• Coed Soccer 5:30 p.m. 

Greenbrook Park 

• Bible Study 7 p.m. 


January 29th – Fifth Thursday 

• Runners’ Club 6 a.m. Braden 

River Nature Park 

• Women’s Golf 7:30 a.m. 








• St. George’s Dragon Ladies 

Mah Jongg 1 p.m. Lakewood 


• Lakewood Ranch Lightning 

5:45 p.m. Lakewood 

Ranch Athletic Center 



January 30th – Fifth Friday 





• Mom’s Kinder Music Class 9 


• Art Club Class 1 p.m. Lakewood 


January 31st – Fifth Saturday 


Park Pavilion 

• Coed Soccer 8 a.m. Greenbrook Park 

• Ladies Soccer Club 8 a.m. 


• Volleyball Club 10 a.m. 

Summerfield Park 

February 1st – First Sunday 

• Duplicate Bridge 6:30 p.m. 


February 2nd – First Monday 

• A.M. Rotary 7:30 a.m. Chef’s Table 

• Exercise Group 7:45 a.m. and 

9 a.m. Woodland Baptist Church 





• Handcrafts & More 10 a.m. 


• Mah Jongg for Advanced Players 12:30 

p.m. Lakewood Ranch Town Hall 

• Art Club 1 p.m. Lakewood 


• Bunco Girls 1 p.m. 


• Boy Scouts 7 p.m. 

Lakewood Ranch High School 

February 3rd – First Tuesday 




• Empty Nesters 1 p.m. 


• Civic Action Forum 5 p.m. Lakewood 




• Angler’s Club 7 p.m. 


February 4th – First Wednesday 







• Pan Club 12:30 p.m. 




• Coed Soccer 5:30 p.m. Greenbrook Park 

February 5th – First Thursday 



• Women’s Golf 7:30 a.m. Legacy Golf Club 

• Cercle Francais 9:30 a.m. Paris Bistro 







• St. George’s Mah Jongg 1 p.m. 






February 6th – First Friday 




Lightning 9 a.m. 


• Art Club 1 p.m. Lakewood 


February 7th – First Saturday 


Park Pavilion 

• Coed soccer 8 a.m. 


• Ladies Soccer Club 8 

a.m. Greenbrook Park 

• Volleyball Club 10 a.m. 

Summerfield Park 

February 8th – Second Sunday 

• No Events Scheduled 

February 9th – Second Monday 

• A.M. Rotary 7:30 

a.m. Chef’s Table 



• Lakewood Ranch Lightning 

9 a.m. Lakewood 


• Legacy Men’s Golf Association 

tee times by appointment 


• Art Club 1 p.m. 


• Mah Jongg for Advanced 

Players 12:30 p.m. Lakewood 


• Community Fund 5 p.m. 


• Boy Scouts 7 p.m. Lakewood 

Ranch High School 

• Genealogy Club 7 p.m. 


February 10th – Second Tuesday 




• Tuesday’s Bridge Club 1 p.m. 



Lightning 5:45 p.m. Lakewood 


• Scrabble Club 6:30 p.m. 


• Running Club 6:30 p.m. 

Lakewood Ranch Town Hall


Your Residential Specialists Around The Ranch 

CallTheCutmores.com 

Ian Cutmore - ABR ® , CSP, GRI, Realtor ® 

Julie Cutmore - ABR ® , Realtor ® 

Call - Ian: (941) 545-5616 Julie: (941) 545-0515 

8141 Lakewood Main Street • Suite 209 • Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 

julie@lakewoodranchhomesearch.com 

COUNTRY CLUB 3/5 Bdrms, 3 bath, 3 car 

garage, 2812 SF. Immaculately maintained and 

upgraded throughout. Wood cabinetry & 

Silestone countertops in kitchen. Sound system 

throughout. Large lanai with heated pool & spa. 

Enjoy spectacular sunsets over the lake. # 

3892344 $675,000 

COUNTRY CLUB 4 Bdrms, 4 

B aths, upstairs bonus room, custom 

window treatments, decorative crown 

molding, fireplace. Large lanai with 

summer kitchen, heated pool & spa. 

#3899802 $1,000,000 

COUNTRY CLUB 4 Bdrms, 3.5 Baths, 

3280 SF, 2.5 Car Garage, office & large 

upstairs bonus room, upgraded 

throughout, accent ceilings, crown 

molding, new wood flooring. Outdoor 

kitchen w/grill, pool & large spa. 

#3894704 $699,900 

UNDER CONTRACT 

SUMMERFIELD 4 Bdrm , 2 Baths, 

2190 SF , tile throughout main living 

areas, crown molding, custom window 

treatments. Expanded lanai with solar 

heated pool & views of the lake. 

#388123 $324,000 

COUNTRY CLUB 4 Bdrm, 3.5 Baths, 

3895 SF, 3 Car Garage, extensive builtins 

throughout, wood flooring in living 

areas & master suite. Heated pool & spa. 

Lake views! #383825 $1,495,000 

COUNTRY CLUB 3 Bdrms, Den, 2 

Baths, 2423 SF, upgraded throughout with 

diagonal tile in great room & kitchen, 

granite counters & wood cabinets. Large 

lanai with pool overlooking lake and golf 

course, #3896981 $500,000 

UNDER CONTRACT 

NP9103 

COUNTRY CLUB 2 Bdrm, Den, 2 

Bath, 1917 SF, loaded with upgrades. 

E xtended lanai. Maintenance free 

n eighborhood. Views of golf course & 

l ake. #3897615 $385,000 

MOORINGS 2 Bdrms, 2 bath, 1883 SF, 

built in entertainment center with 

fireplace. granite custom wine bar, 

upgraded kitchen, bamboo floors in 

bedrooms. #385725 $279,900 

SUMMERFIELD HOLLOW 2 Bdrms, 2 

Bath, 1 C ar G arage, 1023 SF. Light and 

bright end unit. #376930 $125,000


Bayside Community Church 

755-8600, www.baysidecommunity.org 

Meets at Freedom Elementary School. 

Braden River United Methodist Church 

745-1663, bradenriver@verizon.net 

5858 44th Ave. E., Bradenton, FL 

Chabad Lubavitch of Bradenton 

758-2799, rabbimbradenton@aol.com 

Christ Presbyterian 

727-1833 

www.emphasisonchrist@hotmail.com 

515 Upper Manatee RiverRoad, 

approximately 1/2 mile north 

of the corner of SR 64 and 

Lakewood Ranch Boulevard 

Church of Hope 

941-923-1592 

www.churchofhope.com 

NE off Fruitville Road, Exit 210, 

go east, first leftWednesdays - 7pm; 

Sundays 9 and 11am 

Church on the Ranch 

Meets at Willis Elementary School 

Sunday 10 a.m.14705 The Masters Ave, 

off of Lorraine Rd.941-727-2749 

Cornerstone of Lakewood Ranch, PCA 

907-3939 

www.cornerstoneoflakewoodranch.org 

14306 Covenant Way, corner of 

University Parkway and Lorraine Road. 

COMMUNITY WORSHIP DIRECTORY 

Eastside Church of Christ 

“Restoring New Testament Christianity” 


Sundays Bible Study 10am 

Worship Service 11am 

Evangel Baptist Church 

708-6636, www.evange lbaptistchurch.com 

3605 Lorraine Rd. 

Everlasting Faith Fellowship 

Meets at Lakewood Ranch Town Hall, 

Sunday worship 10:30 a.m. 

Bible Study every Wednesday 

at Town Hall 7 p.m. 

For more information call 941-870-3994 

or www.effchurch.org 

Faith Christian Church 

746-5711, www.faithchristianchurch.com, 

info@faithchristianchurch.com 

5215 Lorraine Road 

(between SR 64 and SR 70) 

Family Church 

Christian Retreat 

746-2882 www.christianretreat.org 

1200 Glory Way Blvd 

3-1/2 miles North of SR64, 

off Upper Manatee River Road 

Harvest United Methodist Church 

907-7333, www.harvest-umc.org 

14305 Covenant Way, 1/4 mile north of 

University Parkway on Lorraine Road 

Living Lord Lutheran Church 

753-9365 www.livinglordfl.org 

11120 SR 70 East 

Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church 

752-6770 

12905 SR 70 East, 

one mile east of 

Lakewood Ranch Boulevard. 

Peace Presbyterian Church PCUSA 

753-7778, www.peacepcusa.com 

Meets at MCC in Commerce Park 

Religious Society of Friends 

(Quakers) 941-358-5759 

Located at the N.W. Corner of 

Lockwood Ridge Road and 57th Street 

Risen Savior Lutheran 

(WELS) 747-5564,www.rsavior.com 

6150 SR 70 East. Meets at McNeal Elementary 

Sarasota Baptist 

922-1449, www.sarasotabaptist.com 

University Parkway at the southeast 

corner of Deer Drive 

St. Mary Magdalene Episcopal 

751-5048, www.stmarymagdalene.net 

11315 Palmbrush Trail, sw corner of 

Lakewood Ranch Blvd. @ S.R. 70 

Sonrise Church 

524-0995 www.sonrisetoday.net 

Meets at Haile Middle School. 

Temple Beth Sholom 

(Conservative) 955-8121, 

www.templebethsholomfl.org 

1050 S. Tuttle Ave. Sarasota, Fl 

Temple Emanu-El 

371-2788, tmplemanuel@hotmail.com, 

www.templeemanuelsarasota.org 

151 South McIntosh Road, Sarasota 

Whitfi eld Christian Church 

753-7128, www.whitfieldcc@yahoo.com 

Dr. Terry Wise, Sr. Minister 

(whitfieldpastor@yahoo.com) 

3530 Whitfield Avenue (1 mile East of 301) 

Woodland Baptist 

753-8588 www.woodlandministeries.com 

SR 70, 1 mile east of I-75. 

Word of Christ International Church 

www.wocic.com 

Now meeting at Nolan Middle School 

6615 Greenbrook Blvd East Bradenton, FL 

34202, 941 746-7214

Winning by Hitting Singles 


By Doug Van Dyke, 

President of 

DVD Consulting Incorporated 

When you spend the first 12 years of your 

life in Chicago, as I did, you learn that each 

spring you have a choice to make: Cubbies 

or White Sox. In many ways it is a ridiculous 

choice, but I was (and still am), a 

White Sox fan. During my youth, being a 

Sox fan was just as frustrating as rooting 

for the little bears from the windy place. 

In 2005, however, long after I had moved 

from Chicago, an amazing thing happened 

– the White Sox won the World Series. 

When you looked at their roster, you had 

to wonder how they scored enough runs to 

win. They had a void of home run hitters. 

In fact, they were nowhere near the league 

leaders in home runs. So how did they win 

it all? The answer: they hit singles and 

played smart. The team’s leader, their manager 

Ozzie Guillen, realized early on that 

his team did not possess the ability to go 

long, so they got creative and played “small 

ball.” They bunted or hit chop singles, and 

then stole bases and hit sacrifice flies. The 

2005 White Sox were not a pretty team to 

watch, but they hustled, played as a team, 

and stayed positive. 

What the heck does this have to do 

with business? Answer: a lot actually. As 

business leaders, there are several lessons 

we can learn from my beloved Chicago 

White Sox. 

1.) Think creatively and hit singles. 

If you cannot hit the home runs that you 

would like (or that you used to hit), go for 

singles. In other words, figure out other 

ways to score runs. What are some singles 

in your business that you could hit, or that 

you are not hitting now? Are you involving 

everyone on your team with regard to 

brainstorming on this issue? What hidden 

talents do your team members possess that 

you are not aware of? Remember, even if 

you can still hit home runs, singles are a 

great supplement. 

2.) Play as a team. One of the best ways 

to promote team play in the business world 

is to clearly communicate what is going on. 

Are you effectively communicating business 

direction? What about team and corporate 

priorities? What about changes and 

shifts in strategy and desired execution? 

The better these items are communicated, 

the better the sense of team, and the weaker 

the strength of the grapevine. 

3.) Be pragmatically optimistic. Believe 

you will win. Even if the game is difficult 

and defeat looks near, stay positive, dig in 

your heels, and be positive. Tip: demand 

positivism from every team member. Here 

are some tips for staying positive: 

• Surround yourself with 

positive-minded people who 

believe in themselves. 

• Surround yourself with can-do 

type people who believe in you! 

• Distance yourself from 

negative people. 

• Purposefully place positive thoughts 

in your mind. 

• Push head trash from your mind. 

Studies have shown that 93 percent 

of the stuff we fear never comes 

to fruition; and we usually cannot 

influence the 7 percent that 

remains. 

4.) Celebrate all victories (even small 

ones). The media is bombarding us with 

negative news. Granted, there are a plethora 

of challenges facing the economy and 

certain industries, but it is as if the news 

outlets seem to gain pleasure by piling all 

types of negativity upon us. Seek to break 

free. As leaders, we must counter-balance 

the negative spin and provide positivism 

and celebration of success. Ask your people 

how they want to celebrate – both large 

and small victories. Hint: don’t be afraid to 

be silly once in a while. 

5.) Practice, Practice, Practice. When 

we were young our parents told us, “Practice 

makes perfect.” Nothing has changed. 

Whether it is leadership, sales, or something 

else, we improve with practice. As 

such, coaching and training are critical elements 

in growing your people and in keeping 

productivity skyrocketing. 

In closing, I offer a bit of pontification 

for you to ponder. The White Sox waited 

a long time for it to be their year. Do not 

be so patient. Remember: this is your year. 

Make it your year. Don’t start off this year 

by being intimidated or saying “we’ll get 

‘em next year.” Will this year be tough? 

Maybe. Will it be your best year ever? 

Maybe. Control what you can control and 

live in the now. Don’t reminisce. Instead, 

dig in your heels, suck it up, play small ball 

if you must, and win! “Wait ‘til next year?” 

That’s for Cubs fans. 

Doug Van Dyke is a leadership and communication 

consultant, executive coach, and 

business planner. And yes, he has a soft spot 

for the Cubbies and the ivy covered walls of 

Wrigley Field. Doug’s book, Leadership Simplified, 

is available at www.amazon.com or 

in the Productivity Store of www.dvdconsulting.com. 

To learn more about Leadership 

Simplified Boot Camps and events, contact 

Doug today at doug@dvdconsulting.com or 

at 941-776-1121. 

Happy New Year! 

Jim Soda, ABR, CSP, RRS 

Prudential Palms Realty 

May the new year bring new hopes, 

new promises and new reasons to 

celebrate the Joys of Life. On behalf of 

the entire team at the Jim Soda Group, 

I would like to thank the community for 

the privilege of serving you. As we do 

every year, we are donating a portion of 

our sales commissions to charity, this 

year to the Salvation Army, East County 

Charities, United Wayʼs Realtors for 

Kids, and The Boys and Girls Clubs. 

As we usher in the New Year, itʼs 

time to reflect on the old. What a year! 

In the real estate market, 2008 was a 

year of correction, foreclosures, short sales and continuing negative 

media. Some home sellers continue to be disconnected from to the 

realities of the market. Although three of every four homes lost value 

in the past year, almost half of U.S. homeowners believe their homeʼs 

value has increased or stayed the same, according to a recent Zillow 

survey. 

This is also a time to look ahead. While attempts at forecasting are 

an exercise in futility (and humility), the New Year does bring the promise 

of stabilization in home values. Interest from overseas buyers continues 

to increase, especially on our website, which has been receiving many 

inquiries from different areas, including Canada, the UK, Europe, South 

and Central America, as well as Asia. They now await a better currency 

exchange rate as in the past. 

Weʼre in an unprecedented buyerʼs market. Resale inventory 

is abundant, interest rates are low, and home prices have been 

drastically reduced. There are terrific deals to be had, and prime, 

beautiful properties are available. In new construction, most 

homebuilders continue to offer extraordinary buyer incentives and 

have stated youʼll never build any cheaper than you can now. 

In these precarious times, you donʼt have to go it alone. You 

need an experienced Realtor. The Jim Soda Group has been very 

successful in helping buyers seeking value and looking after seller 

needs, including assisting buyers with foreclosure properties, 

assisting sellers with short sales and helping clients invest in real 

estate with their IRA funds. If youʼre planning to buy or sell in 2009, 

give us a call. Weʼre here to help! Happy New Years and All the Best 

to You in 2009. 

The Jim Soda Group performs among the top 100 Prudential sales 

professionals. Read Jim Soda’s BLOG at http://sodasells.wordpress.com. 

130 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236 

(941) 552-2666 or (941) 809-7759 

www.JimSoda.com 

NP9098


MileStones 

By Stella Olinger, Columnist 

Brought to you by the Bradenton Herald - 

Manatee County’s Newspaper since 1922. 

Delivered daily 

to your doorstep! 

It’s all about you! 

The only DAILY newspaper focusing on 

Lakewood Ranch news, events, business and 

sports that impact your community every day. 

Call today to subscribe! 

1-800-748-6666 

Your Community 

Your Newspaper 

NP7827 F54311 

Happy New Year and welcome back 

to MileStones, where I will attempt to 

capture some of the events that happen 

to and with our residents – birthdays, 

anniversaries, the most incredible 

Christmas surprise, reunions, special 

vacations, a hole-in-one, promotions, 

successes, new family members – things 

that bring a bright spot to our neighbors’ 

and our lives. I encourage each of you 

to send me news about your family and 

friends (smoling@tampabay.rr.com). 

Maybe a clever incident you would 

like to share. I’m hoping MileStones 

will help us to get to know each other 

a bit better. 

Tearful farewells are extended to 

our London Framer friends, Sondra 

and Steve Dryden, along with 

Kimberley and Jack, who sadly are 

returning to the UK within the next 

few weeks. Between the terrible effects 

of the economic downturn 

and the restrictive work permit 

placed on them by U.S. Immigration, 

they have been forced to make the 

one decision they hoped they would 

never have to make. But they have 

not given up hope of living here and 

promise to return. 

What a grand day at polo this past 

Sunday (Dec. 21) watching Jaymie 

Klauber score a goal for her team. 

Most of us know her expertise as a 

restaurateur, caterer, and savvy business 

woman, but put her on her horses and 

watch out for her mallet. She’s amazing 

to watch, as are all the incredible 

athletes in the sport. “Sunshine and 

Snowflakes” was the theme for Sunday’s 

match. The day was filled with 

sunshine and nary a snowflake in sight. 

Jennifer Grondahl (ever the event 

planner with china plates, stemmed 

wine glasses and table decorations) 

invited several of us, including 

Suzanne Stovall and Tonya Atchison, 

to share her reserved space; we got to 

join Tommy Klauber’s enthusiastic 

cheering from Lydia Kolbas’s adjoining 

spot. 

When I tell my friends around the 

country about our polo club, they are 

all amazed and think we show up each 

Sunday outfitted in afternoon dresses, 

ascots, and hats! They can’t seem to 

match the reality of our shorts, flipflops, 

visors, and beach chairs to the 

snobby image usually portrayed about 

this exhilarating sport. Get out and enjoy 

this unique experience every Sunday 

through April 5. North side or south 

side, the action is the same, and there is 

enough fun to go around. 

Welcome back to Fred Lopez who spent 

the holidays in the Philippines with his 

92-year-old mom and extended family. 

It’s good to have you back. 

Teresa and Tim Tyrell have generously 

volunteered to pet sit for several Cavalier 

King Charles spaniels. One has just been 

so frisky and intent on dominating Teresa’s 

cats Lilly and Cali, that Tim is losing 

sleep and has developed a severe “crick” 

in his neck as he lies awakes anticipating 

the visitor’s next nocturnal move. Second 

thoughts, Tim, on getting a Cavalier of 

you own??? 

By the time this column is published, two 

momentous things will be taking place: 

the inauguration of our new president 

and my hubby Preston’s birthday. Best 

wishes to each for healthy, successful 

years to come. 

This holiday season was our fifth in 

LWR. I listened to all the nostalgic stories 

from former northerners – it’s just not 

Christmas without snow – lights on 

palm trees are weird – if it’s 80 degrees, 

it can’t be Christmas – it is difficult to 

get into the mood if there is no chill in 

the air... Get over it, those are some of the 

reasons we chose to live here. Just listening 

to the weather reports coming out of 

Chicago and New England make me 

cold. I can remember the feeling of never 

being warm enough – shoveling out 

the driveway to make way for visiting 

family – chipping the ice off the car doors 

if we went for a Christmas visit, always 

on the lookout for dreaded black ice – 

walking like penguins in 20 pounds of 

winter gear – hoping family could get in 

before the airports closed; what was fun 

about that?!? The one thing I do miss is 

having access to the back deck for food 

storage when the fridges got too full. The 

snow machines on Main Street make me 

deliriously happy – that’s all the nostalgia 

I need. It’s time to start collecting some 

new memories and personal definitions 

of the holiday season – paradise-style. 

Let me know about some of the new 

traditions you and your families have 

started since settling here. Cocktails on 

the lanai or an afternoon walk on the 

beach work for me. What about you? 

I’ll help spread your ideas so we can develop 

our own unique perspective on 

the perfect holiday season. Good health, 

good times, and improved prosperity to 

all in 2009!

LAKEWOOD RANCH CLUBS 


Games & Leisure 

Bunco Girls Club 

Barbara Jaeger at 907-8844 

jaeg290@tampabay.rr.com or 

Celia Marino, 907-2039 

Bridge Club – Tuesday 

Elaine Nutlay, 907-8457, enutlay@yahoo.com 

Bridge Club – Wednesday 

Gloria Garriott, 755-1860 

Bridge Club – Thursday 

Dee Saccocci, 907-6652 or 

Rosalyn Wilkinson, 907-2816 

Duplicate Bridge 

Scheduling: Jim Stroup 758-8953 

jjstroup@verizon.net or Ken Duronio at 

907-0748 kduronio@tampabay.rr.com 

Mah Jongg@One 

Joan Robbins, joanrrobbins@hotmail.com 

929-2995 or 448-3978 

Mah Jongg Queens 

Leslie DiGirolamo, 907-0025, 

IS8061@tampabay.rr.com 

Pam Baker, pambaker1@gmail.com 

Pan Club 

Shirley Zoldessy, 758-1333, 

JZMDI@msn.com or 

Sue Banks, 758-4111, RABSHB@verizon.net 

Scrabble Club 

Paul Herzing 907-8938, 

herzing1@wmconnect.com 

St. George’s Dragon Ladies Mah Jongg 

Aida Pyle, 907-3846 

Arts & Crafts 

Arts Club 

Carol Frankland 727-5069 

Cadifrankland@yahoo.com 

Creative Arts (CAALR) 

Marie Gruber, 752-7146 or 753-6259 

MGTHYME@aol.com 

Handcrafts and More Club 

Janet Mamane, 907-9549 

jmamane@tampabay.rr.com 

Self Help & Spiritual 

Exercise Group 

Nancy Gonzalez, 727-5817 

nanman1@aol.com 

Ladies Devotional Hour 

Shirley Surowiec 753-2449, 

shsur@aol.com 

Woman’s Meditation Club 

Lynne Mercier, 812-2393, 

lynnemercier@yahoo.com 

Children & Youth 

Teen Activities Committee 

Keith Davey, keithdavey@tampabay.rr.com 

Pets 

Paw Park Club 

Farida Foster, 586-1275, 

ffmaya@tampabay.rr.com 

Nature 

Garden Club 

Marion Schoenborn, 907-0644, 

desameg@aol.com 

Sports 

Anglers Club 

Red Bailey, 907-3017, PittsburghRed@aol.com 

Billiards Club 

Mark Piantanida, 720-7283, 

markpiantanida@yahoo.com 

Lakewood Ranch Lacrosse Club 

Ryan Regal, 941-545-1422, 

ryan@tampabay.rr.com 

Legacy Men’s Golf Association 

Jake Kammerer 907-8488, 

Russ Wasser, 907-8488, 

legacymensgolf@aol.com 

Running Club 

Roger Raddatz, 755-7291, 

lwrrunner@hotmail.com 

www.Lakewoodranchrunningclub.com 

Scuba Club 

Robert Sheahan, 739-8394 or 

Robert _sheahan@yahoo.com 

Women’s Golf League 

Noreen Duronio, 907-0748, 

kduronio@tampabay.rr.com 

Women’s Soccer 

Victoria Campbell, 586-1197, 907-1122 

Special Interest 

Adventure Travel Club 

Pat Lyon, 907-0602 lyon5@verizon.net 

Cercle Francais 

Glenda Anthony, 907-3820, 

gha2456@hotmail.com 

or Christele Bachtle, 907-7335, 

christele@christelebachtle.com 

Community Television Club 

Mark Sharman, 373-1908, 993-7368, 

mark@perfectneighbors.com 

Corvette Club 

David Feldmar, 907-3979 or 704-0571, 

david@thefeldmars.net 

Diabetic Support Group 

Janet Mamane, 907-9549, 

mamanett@gmail.com 

Digital Photography Club 

Denny Noto, 907-6646, denny@noto.com 

Genealogy Club 

Nancy Johnson, 752-9819, 

choco8448@yahoo.com 

Italian-American Club of Lakewood Ranch 

Stella Olinger, 907-3437, 

smoling@tampabay.rr.com 

Men’s Book Club 

Larry Greenwald, 907-9643, 

Watchlarry2@hotmail.com 

Wings Club 

Kathy Tudyk, 907-0092 

Kathy.tudyk@verizon.net 

Women’s Book Club 

Mary Button, 755-0012, 

mmbutton@verizon.net 

Social Clubs 

Empty Nesters Club 

Sally Purves, 739-0298, Sallrich@aol.com 

Sponsored by the Eye Associates 

Mom’s Group 

Melissa Muller, 739-4880, 

mmuller3d@yahoo.com or 

Susan Meyers, 755-7692, 

susanmeyers@verizon.net 

Nor’ Easter’s Club 

Sharon D’Anna, 751-4112, 

sdanna@tampabay.rr.com 

Women’s Club 

Marian Wolfe, Teewolfe@yahoo.com. 

907-2027 

Young Couples Club 

Rachel & Neil Marcus, 941-538-0424. 

rachelmarcus331@gmail.com 

Service Clubs 

Community Emergency 

Response Teams (CERT) 

Tim Sherer, 753-6770, TKSherer@MSN.com 

Civic Action Forum 

Don O’Leary, 907-1227, donoleary@aol.com 

Hadassah SaBra Chapter 

Elaine Nutlay 907-8457, enutlay@yahoo.com 

and Willie Walter, 907-2683, 

williepwal@aol.com 

Sara-Mana Evening Chapter of ORT 

Lynn Sacks 907-8907, 

Robin DiSabatino, 685-5368 

Robindisabatino@michaelsaunders.com 

Wine & Dine 

Casual Wine and Dine Club 

Karen Singleton, 907-1212, 

kmsingleton@tampabay.rr.com 

Gourmet Club 

Terry and Bob Sharak, 373-6611 

tsharak@aol.com 

Recipe Club 

Janice Shanahan, 907-4139, 

janiceshanahan@verizon.net 

Wine Club 

Barbara Noto, 544-5243, Barbara@noto.com 

SOTC 

SARASOTA OBEDIENCE 

TRAINING CLUB 

Obedience-Rally-Agility 

Puppy and Beginner Classes 

Please join us for our OPEN HOUSE 

on Sunday, January 25, 11 am -4pm 

We’re located at 7505 County Road 675 offState Road 70 

Mention this ad for $10 off your first class! 

Attention Lakewood 

Ranch Residents!!! 

Town Hall Has 

New Hours! 

Monday – Thursday, 

7 a.m. – 6 p.m. 

Closed Friday 

Transponder installations 

will now take place Monday – 

Thursday, 7 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. 

(closed between 12 – 1 p.m.). 

SouthwestFlorida’s 

PREMIER DOG 

TRAINING CENTER 

is NowinYour 

Neighborhood! 

For more information, 

pleasevisit our website: 

sotcdogtraining.com 

or call 

1-888-DOG-SOTC 

NP8098


IMMACULATE 2-STORY IN TARA PRESERVE! 3BR Down & Large Bonus rm/full bath up, 

heated pool, wood flooring, crown molding, short sale opportunity. Call Kathy Liga 920-6070 

#A3898638 $325,000 

GREAT LAKE & PRESERVE VIEWS! 3BR/3BA plus den, pool overlooks lake, separate dining 

& living rm, upgraded kitchen, on cul-de-sac; gated community. Call Kathy Liga 920-6070 

#A3899191 $495,000 

RARE CORNER UNIT IN THE TERRACES AT TARA! Beautiful 2nd floor corner unit. Wonderful 

Views, Fully Furnished Plus Golf Membership. Call Ray Pipes 228-3230 #A3900435 $169,900 

INCLUDES 3BR/2BA, LIVING, DINING & FAMILY ROOMS! Beautiful new hardwood 

flooring, fabulous kitchen includes granite counters & stainless appliances. Super Buy! Call Maggie & 

Stuart Hastings 730-7549 #A3896826 $319,500 

EDGEWATER VILLAGE IN LWR 

WATERCREST’S BEST VIEW! TOP FLOOR Spectecular top floor view of Legacy Golf Course and Lake Uilein. 

3Bedroom, 2 bath, 1916 SF. Solid H ICKORY wood flooring in main living areas. Solid wood plantation shutters. 

Building 5 close to Club House and pool. Not a short sale! Call Glenn Rausch 737-7380 #A3900079 $299,900 

WATERCREST 

BEAUTIFUL HOME IN THE COUNTRY CLUB! Popular Sorrento II Model by Neal 

Communities. Wonderful Lake & Golf Course Views. Call Ray Pipes 228-3230 #A388478 

$649,000 

FEATURED LISTING 

WATER FRONT ON LAKE UIHLEIN A Rutenberg 

built home, 3BR, 2.5 BA and office. Spectacular views, 

recreation, gated and private dock. Call PJ DePetrillo 

524-7707 #A369070 $634,500 

COUNTRY CLUB 

GREENBROOK 

LOVELY 3 BR, 2BA PLUS DEN ON QUIET 

STREET In Summerfield. Pristine home with pool 

a nd lanai in private setting. Call Ellen Ferber Evans 

941-773-6907 #377115 $235,000 

BRADENTON 

WATERCREST PENTHOUSE Fabulous panoramic water 

view! Kitchen features wood cabinets and granite counters, new 

w ood flooring and many upgrades! Call Jean Collins 400-8920 

to see it now! #A389110 $319,000 

RIVERWALK IN LWR 

CUSTOM TODD JOHNSTON HOME IN PRIVATE 

SCENIC SETTING 4/5BR, 4BA, upstairs bonus room 

w/2beds and bath. Pool overlooking preserve and lake. 

Call Ellen Ferber Evans 773-6907 #A374460 $895,000 

GOLF COURSE VIEWS PLUS PRIVATE POOL! 2BR/ 

2BA plus den, pool w/outdoor kitchen Call kathy Liga 920- 

6070 #A377531 $435,900 

VENICE 

GREAT PRICE! BEAUTIFUL END UNIT WITH 

PRIVATE PRESERVE SETTING Covered lanai with storage. 

Move right in and enjoy all the amenities of Lakewood Ranch. 

Call Pat Lyon 400-7306 #A378867 $160,000 

SUMMERFIELD 

FANTASTIC VALUE IN WONDERFUL NEIGHBORHOOD! 

Country club living with the clubhouse just a short walk away. 

Freshly painted throughout this open floor plan home. Call Pat 

Lyon 400-7306 #A3894346 $269,000 

BEAUTIFUL 2-STORY HOME This 4/6 bedrooms, 3 bath 

home is on a Cul-de-sac in the Riverwalk Ridge Community 

in Lakewood Ranch. Call Kathy Liga 920-6070 #A386227 

$599,000 

COUNTRY CLUB 

HOME FOR SALE! Executive 3BR, 3BA, 3 car garage home. 

2 915 SF under air, heated pool and spa overlooking lake. Many 

upgrades: coffered ceilings, crown molding, built ins in office. 

Call Brian Murphy 400-8068 #A3895186 $685,000 

ON THE BEACH ON VENICE ISLAND! Don’t miss out on this 

wonderful 2BR, 2BA condo directly on the beach. Great Gulf view, tile floors, 

turnkey furnished with newer quality furniture. Carefree living for vacation or 

year-round home. Call Jean Collins 400-8920 #A388313 $429,900 

BRIARWOOD 

BRADENTON 

LOVINGLY MAINTAINED ONE-OWNER WITH LAKE 

VIEWS! 2BR, 2BA plus den w/wood floors & tile, mini lap 

pool, gas fireplace in family room, separate DR, near parks. 

Call Kathy Liga 920-6070 #A3893956 $249,900 

GREAT 1,254 sq.ft. CONDO-EL CONQUISTADOR near 

IMG Academy. 2/2 w/sun room and patio overlooking lushly 

landscaped pool area. Corner unit, peek at Sarasota Bay. 

Call Kim Yniguez 812-5062 #A370963 $135,000 

GREYHAWK LANDING 

PRISTINE LEE WETHERINGTON MARBELLA 

MODEL IN CC 3/4BR, 3.5BA, living, dining, family rooms 

with office, upstairs bonus room, oversized lanai and pool. 

Call Ellen Ferber Evans 773-6907 #A370289 $699,000 

CUSTOM QUALITY BUILT “ PRUETT” HOME 3 BR, 

3 BA, 3 car garage, 2812 sq. ft., upgrades throughout, 

immaculately maintained. Large lanai w/heated pool & 

spa. Call Ian Cutmore 545-5616 #A3892344 $675,000 

BRIARWOOD lmmaculate 3BR, 2BA home in popular 

Briarwood. Open floor plan, split bedroom layout, eat in 

kitchen, separate DR. Private lake view! Call Glen 

Rausch 737-7380 #A3894096 $189,000 

FOUNDERS CLUB 

WONDERFUL FAMILY HOME ON PRIVATE PRESERVE 

LOT! 3BR, 3BA home. Great location and neighborhood. AC 

new in 2006, protective film on all windows & doors. Call Ray 

Pipes 228-3230 #A388230 $199,500 

PERFECT FLORIDA LIVING IN THIS SAM RODGERS HOME! 

4BR, 3BA, 3 car garage on quiet private street. Two covered lanais, one 

prepped for outdoor kitchen, the other with pool overlooking a preserve. 

Gated community. Call Ellen Ferber Evans 773-6907 #A3894743 $334,900 

BEAUTIFULLY APPOINTED HOME-MANY UPGRADES 

Lush landscaping for privacy yet open to lake view. Info. 24/7 

Call 227-4078 Enter Code 37542 Call Pat Lyon 400-7306 

#A377256 $500,000 

SPACIOUS LIVING INSIDE THE COUNTRY CLUB! 

3BR/2BA, open floor plan, great room to lanai, disappearing 

s liders, lake views. Large lot w/fenced yard, extended 2 car 

garage. Call Wendy Burr 400-4119 #A3893143 $499,000 

DRAMATIC FOYER-SWEEPING VIEWS! 4BR, 4/2BA, 

casual elegance w/2 fireplaces, elevator, office, study, game & 

media rooms, wet bar & gourmet kitchen. Call Pat McMillan 

544-4538 #A3893653 $2,894,122 

NP9111

When âWhat Ifâ Never Happened - Lakewood Ranch

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?

When âWhat Ifâ Never Happened - Lakewood Ranch