Spirit of America by Nancy Schwartz

Spirit of America

The American Experience

Look inside for a calendar of Fourth of July events. PAGES 20-21

The Observer

SPIRIT OF AMERICA

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THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2014

Local News that’s Local News. The East County Observer, Longboat Observer, Sarasota Observer and Pelican Press are weekly newspapers that connect readers to their communities in Greater Sarasota and Manatee counties with 100% local, unique content. Every issue is packed with news, photos, events and newsmakers to inform, entertain and delight readers and help build a sense of community. From backyard birthday parties to the black-tie social scene, if it’s news in your neighborhood, it’s in the Observers. The family-owned Observer Media Group has been sharing stories locally for more than 35 years. The Observers are passionate about offering the communities we serve a relevant and trusted source to connect you, your neighbors, your neighborhood.

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR The Fourth of July is the perfect time to reflect on the many unique experiences that are specific to this great nation. This section, themed “The American Experience,” takes a look at the people and traditions that make us … well, us. The photos represent some themes that, in part, form the fabric of what it means to be an American. Things like: entrepreneurial spirit, family, pride in service, government of the people, second chances and sports. In addition, we wanted to hear what naturalized American citizens have to say, in their

own words, about how much they appreciate the country of which they chose to be a member. America’s authentic spirit is prevalent and shown through the stories of various Sarasota and Manatee County residents on the following pages by Mallory Gnaegy, Kelsey Grau, Robin Hartill, Pam Eubanks, Heather Merriman, Amanda Sebastiano and Harriet Sokmensuer. As you celebrate this Fourth of July, embrace and celebrate the things that make America great. Happy Independence Day! — Stephanie Hannum

Table of contents COMING TO AMERICA Armando Linde.............................5 Margot Coville.............................13 Cihan Cobagnoglu......................23

IN THEIR WORDS Sean McGrath................................6 Dex Honea.....................................7 Rano Stankevskaya.....................14 Cliff Roles.....................................15 Fred Lopez...................................24 Todd Pokrywa..............................25

Bird & Reptile Shows Daily

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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Pages ...................................... 20-21

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On the cover TOP LEFT Jeremy Joerger stands behind the bar of his Sarasota craft brewery, JDub’s. PAGE 9 TOP RIGHT Girl Scout Hataitaya “Tai” Rohan built a garden for a local community, which helped her earn the Girl Scout’s highest award, the Girl Scout Gold Award. PAGE 34 CENTER William Piazza enjoys a cold cup of lemonade after hosting a lemonade stand with friends to benefit veterans. PAGE 10

Hear naturalized U.S. citizens share their stories.

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BY ROBIN HARTILL Armando Linde is a Longboat Key resident who moved to Bethesda, Md., from his native Cuba when he was 16.

Kelsey Grau

American by choice Cuba native Armando Linde, 70, celebrates America through his involvement in his community.

or Armando Linde, the Fourth of July isn’t a day for shooting off fireworks. Instead, he and his wife, Felicity, get together with neighbors. Sometime during the gathering, they sing patriotic songs. “We celebrate with even more vigor than most Americans,” he says, “because we are actually Americans by choice.” Linde is a native of Havana, Cuba; his wife was born Born: 1943, in Guyana to British parents. in Cuba Linde’s journey toBecame a ward the American U.S. citizen: dream began in 1960, 1968 shortly after Fidel Castro rose to power. His father sent Linde, 16, and his brother to Bethesda, Md., to stay with a family friend. Linde remembers the Cuba of his childhood as a “lovely place” that American tourists frequently traveled to and from by ferry. His parents emigrated from Spain to Cuba when they were young and owned a beachfront resort for 30 or 40 years. Still, under the regime of Fugencio Batista y Zaldivar in the 1950s, there wasn’t much liberty or freedom of expression. In the late 1950s, during the Cuban Revolution, bombings were a nightly occurrence, and school was often disrupted by violence. Linde had always planned to study in the U.S. for a few years and thought the move to the United States was temporary. One year later, his parents moved to Bethesda after losing their resort

and most of their assets. Within a few years, the family realized they would not return to Cuba. “We never thought Castro would be around for more than 50 years,” Linde says. “We realized that Castro was going to be around for some time.” The Lindes were one of the first Cuban families to live in Bethesda. “The country was beautiful, it is large, and they were friendly toward us. We were given a warm welcome,” he says. The adjustment to American life wasn’t difficult for him or his brother, but it was much tougher for their parents. Linde’s father died just three years after leaving Cuba. “They had a very long, hard life, and losing it all was a real shock to him,” Linde says. Linde enrolled at the University of Maryland, from which he earned a bachelor’s degree in economics. He became a U.S. citizen in 1968 in a Rockville, Md., courthouse, then celebrated the milestone with a dinner in which he and his family sang the national anthem. In 1976, he was raising a family, working and studying for his doctorate when the International Monetary Fund (IMF) recruited him. He spent 33 years with the or-

ganization and worked with more than 60 countries on four continents. He eventually retired as a senior economist three-and-a-half years ago. Linde hasn’t returned to Cuba since he left. During his time with the IMF, he had the opportunity to travel to Cuba with a delegation that accompanied the Catholic Diocese on a mission. He declined because of the stories he heard from friends who have visited. “I think I would be very frustrated by what the island has become, which was once a very lovely place,” Linde says. Linde moved to Longboat Key upon his retirement and has since become more involved in the political process and his community. Recently, he was elected president of the Kiwanis Club of Longboat Key. “We begin every breakfast meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag,” Linde says. “It is a very moving experience for me.” He serves on the town’s Investment Advisory Committee and the Longboat Key Firefighters’ Retirement System board of trustees. In the spring, he ran for the Longboat Key Town Commission. Although he lost the race, he was “honored and humbled by the fact that over 900 people voted for me.” “Americans are joiners,” Linde says. “We look for ways to give to our communities, whether it’s running for office or working with town government, in this case, to do the best you can.”

Americans are joiners. We look for ways to give to our communities, whether it’s running for office or working with town government, in this case, to do the best you can.”

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IN THEIR WORDS

SEAN MCGRATH

Born: 1940 in Belfast, Northern Ireland // Became a citizen: 1962

I traveled to Boston in ’57 and got a job very quickly. I found out that the colleges here in the states wouldn’t accept some of my classes, so I went to a private school at night in Boston and got my certificate in mathematics that allowed me to apply to Northeastern University in engineering.

Story and photo by Kelsey Grau

I was 16, going on 17, and living in Ireland. We were very poor. My father had died a few years earlier and we were on public assistance. There were four brothers; I was the oldest. My dad was dead. I just figured that leaving meant possibly two positive things would happen. I would find a job here and start working and send money home and second, there was one less mouth to feed.

When I came here, I wasn’t aware of the “American Dream.” But since then, I’ve realized a significant percent of the people that live here now are not citizens, but in the process of becoming a citizen. And most of them come to the U.S. after undergoing hard times. I think that all people that weren’t born here and become citizens are aware of what citizenship really means. Many take it for granted. It’s foreign to them that there’s other people in the world that don’t have the privileges they have.

Even as a kid, I was very interested in geography and history and I had an above average knowledge of what to expect in the U.S. One thing I didn’t have a good handle on, though, was how hard everyone works here. You’re not going to come to the U.S. and get ahead if you’re not willing to apply yourself and work hard. Anything you get as an immigrant or as a citizen in this country is earned.

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IN THEIR WORDS

DEX HONEA

Born: 1971 in Bangkok, Thailand // Became a citizen: 2014

Most of the people born in America, not all, but some, take it for granted. You’re born in this beautiful country and everything is for you. For foreigners, the people that want to become Americans, they do it by choice. They choose to be American. My father was actually an American citizen. He was an American GI in the Vietnam War. So, I already have American blood in me, even though I’ve never met my father. Story and photo by Kelsey Grau

I believe in this country’s principles. When I was a kid, I used to have great neighbors. If my family was in trouble or someone wanted to hurt us, you knew this neighbor would protect you. Growing up, the United States was kind of like that to Thailand. To our little country, we knew, if someone ever invaded us, the United States would be the one to intervene. You see it in the news all the time. United States will be that neighbor to say, That’s not right. So, based on that principle alone, I always wanted to be a U.S. citizen.

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ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT //

If you can dream it, you can do it. A look at those who find opportunity in the U.S.’s free enterprise economy. Francisco Marcano-Soltero and his wife, Maribel SantosCordero, work in the same building. She, a pediatric dentist, and he, a general dentist, met in Puerto Rico when both were in dental school. They married a month after graduation and opened a practice together in Puerto Rico — it was 496 square feet. Once they grew out of the space, Santos-Cordero decided to specialize in pediatric dentistry. Their family, including their 2-year-old son, moved to Buffalo, N.Y. A huge blizzard in 2000, which dumped 27 inches of snow in eight hours, made them rethink their location. Now they work in a practice they built in Bradenton — she has her own side of the building, and he has a few back rooms of shared space.

Mallory Gnaegy

I’m going for 106 years old — make a note of that. I hear old, I see old and I walk old, but I don’t feel old.” — Joe Tanner

Joe Tanner, 82, played and coached Major League Baseball until 1971; in 1988 he transitioned into making Tanner Tees. He created the lightweight, portable and efficient tee out of necessity to train the minor league team he was coaching, but when the pros saw it, they wanted it, too. It’s been 26 years since Tanner first developed the tee. And it has become a family business: His daughter Marilyn Menard and his grandsons, A.J. and Andy Menard, all work together. Tanner not only passed on the family business to his grandsons, he also taught them to play ball.

Mallory Gnaegy

“No, we don’t get sick of each other,” Francisco Marcano-Soltero says. “Have you looked at her? Why would I want to be anywhere else?”

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For a civil engineer and a biologist, starting a restaurant on busy St. Armands Circle might not have been the most obvious choice. But Roger Schuhmacher and his wife, Isabelle Chaumas, delved into the dining scene and, after one year of business, are more than happy with their decision. The couple and their two young children moved early last year to the Sarasota area from Germany to open their eatery, Madison Avenue Café & Deli, which serves up breakfast and lunch to an already loyal following of regulars.

Mallory Gnaegy

Before Jeremy Joerger, 35, opened his own craft brewery in Sarasota, JDub’s, he served our country from 1999 to 2008. Joerger was an Army staff sergeant and special agent for the Department of Defense in the criminals investigations division. In 2003, he started home brewing in Olympia, Wash. He’s been honing his craft for the past decade.

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People are here because they want to be here. We’re in paradise.” — Roger Schuhmacher

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ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT Continued from page 8

High school students Abby Schulte, Christine Yin and Jennifer Zhang completed the national Girls InCharge summit last summer in Indianapolis. Together they decided to organize a similar workshop for younger girls, essentially a “pay it forward” gesture for helping others realize their entrepreneurial potential. Initiating the collaboration of the Girl Scouts of the Gulf Coast and Girls Inc. of Sarasota County, the three planned, organized and executed the workshop.

ABOVE Samantha Torres gives a fellow participant in the Girls INCharge workshop ideas on how to turn her interests and strengths into a business plan. Photos by Heather Merriman

ABOVE Amelia Menke, Izzie Radford and Gina Giovannone BELOW William Piazza and Austin Bobb

Photos by Heather Merriman

ABOVE Entrepreneurial talking points for the girls to ask.

A group of local moms and their children decided to host a lemonade stand near Southside Elementary to raise money for local veterans. Playing the role as supervisors, the parents let the children plan and organize the occasion. Going through six gallons of ice cold lemonade, the kids refreshed the residents of Southside Village and raised a total of $130, which they donated to the Manasota Operation Troop Support, an organization that sends care packages to deployed soldiers and supports families.

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FAMILY //

In the U.S., family can refer to more than relatives: It's a tradition of caring for one another.

Byron Milburn is president and CEO of Champs Sports, which allows him to supply his wife, Mira, and their five children with plenty of shoes for the handful of sports each of them plays. The Milburn family is unique because the majority of them are citizens of Canada, while two of them carry United States passports. The middle siblings have dual citizenship, while the rest have Canadian citizenship.

Jackson Blevins, 4, plays with shapes as his mother, Allison, sister, Georgia, and father, Jesse, watch.

Kelsey Grau

I love to come in and see every little new thing that he does. I’m just obsessed with all the details of his progress.” — Allison Blevins

Almost two years ago, the Blevins embarked an educational and emotional journey with their son, Jackson, a 4-year-old child with autism spectrum disorder. The Blevinses join Jackson during his therapy sessions to better understand his progress and the activities that have contributed to it. He attends Pinnacle Academy, where he participates in group sessions, but it’s his private sessions at Pediatric Therapy Solutions that target his personal speech and occupational therapy needs. There, he works on everything from his fine-motor skills to sensory integration.

Photos by Mallory Gnaegy

ABOVE Caden, Keira, Carson, Mira, Byron, Jaida and Jordyn LEFT The two middle siblings, Caden and Keira, have dual American and Canadian citizenships.

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FAMILY

THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2014

Continued from page 11

Mimi and Jeff Kinkead moved to Lakewood Ranch about two years ago with their sons, Matthew, 12, and Ryan, 14. Kinkead immigrated to the United States with her family in 1970, after leaving Cuba in 1969 and spending a year in Spain. She became a naturalized citizen when her parents became U.S. citizens in 1976. Kinkead was 15 years old at the time. Now, she struggles to keep her Cuban heritage alive in her American home. She makes sure to speak Spanish with her children and also to create time for them to spend time “The government didn’t allow backwith her mother, Vilma Ragolta, so they grounds, so we had to cut out all the retain a sense of the Cuban culture.

photos like this,” Mimi Kinkead says.

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Bartender Angele Manger is best known for her warm smile and signature drink, a Whisper. Although Manger is originally from Beirut, she considers The Oaks Club her second family and home — more specifically, the tavern where she has bartended for 19 years. She first arrived in the United States in 1976 with her family; she became a citizen in ’90. Becoming

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Mimi Kinkead holds a photograph of herself and her brother, Eduardo Ragolta, and their mother, Vilma Ragolta, when they lived in Cuba.

I love that you can get in a car and go anywhere; you can go and do something.” — Angele Manger

a citizen seemed natural to Manger, who says she enjoyed learning about U.S. history and its government, so much so, in fact, she thinks she was born to be American.

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BY MALLORY GNAEGY

Cost of freedom

Remembering to ‘be a good little girl,’ Margot Coville led 10 other children to safety in Switzerland.

argot Coville and her parents stood outside Camp des Milles, in France. It was an old brick factory used as an internment. Coville’s parents had to make the decision to send their child away or to allow her to meet the same fate they would — deportation to a death camp. A bus waited to take her — it was 1942. “They kept saying, ‘Be a good girl’ and, ‘We’ll see you soon again,’ which we all knew was a lie,” Coville says. Coville, 85, pulls out a green scrapbook and carefully lifts Born: 1929 a yellowed postcard so faded in Munich you can barely read the GerBecame a U.S. citizen: man words on it. Her mother had tossed it from a train into 1947 the French countryside. It arrived to Coville a few days later. “Be well … be my brave little girl,” it said in her mother’s handwriting. Coville never saw her parents again. Coville gently flips through the other pages of photos. There are prewar photos of her parents at happy costume parties that were held in Munich, where she was born. There are photos of her brother, Heinz “Howard” Triest, as a little boy. He escaped in 1940 on the last ship that left Europe for the United States just as World War II began. He served for the U.S. Army and helped persecute Nazis during the Nuremberg trials. These are the family photos that survived the Holocaust alongside Coville (formerly Margot Triest). As she looks at the photos, she recounts her stories of terrible persecution. In Germany, she was persecuted as a Jew, so she and her family fled to Holland. But, because the Dutch were at war with Germany, she was harassed for being a German. “We couldn’t go either way. We were hindered and bound,” she says. She remembers walking for so many hours back to Belgium that her mother’s feet bled. Sporadic bombs threatened them the whole walk, and they would fling themselves into ditches alongside

the road. When they arrived at the border, Germans took them into custody. She thought they would be shot. Her father was taken to a concentration camp in Southern France. She and her mother were released. Eventually, they reconnected with Coville’s father near Marseille, France. They stayed at a hotel and visited him at the camp on weekends. Around this time, rumors of death camps began to reach her parents. So, when the OSE, a Jewish welfare organization that took children into hiding, came to the camp, they seized the opportunity for Coville to have a better chance of survival. This is when they said goodbye. The OSE sent her to a brothel where guards watched her change clothes. She was 13; women 14 and older were given to soldiers as sex prizes. Fortunately, before Coville’s 14th birthday, the OSE transported her into hiding to an all-girls safe house in France. Mallory Gnaegy Coville points to a photo of the old Margot Coville keeps her cherished postcard safe in plastic inside her scrapbook, hunting chateau. which is wrapped in more plastic. “It was beautiful there,” she says. At that time, the Gestapo intensified its search for safe homes. So, on her 14th birthday — April 19, 1943 — Co- ble. She wore lipstick. Little Treasure, ville led 10 other children along a railHer date was Warren Coville. She I am so glad way to safety in Switzerland. couldn’t speak English yet. She waited out the war with friends “We communicated very little,” she you arrived well. I am of her family in Zurich. At the end of says. sure you have found the war, she left for the United States, It really was love at first sight. They’ve where she would live with relatives. been married for 68 years. girlfriends already. Take Immediately after she stepped off the Coville became a U.S. citizen in 1947. care of yourself, my train, her uncle said she needed lipstick Her survival impacted her profoundly and to ditch her heavy tights. She was in — it taught her a lesson in prejudice. little one. Always be America now. “I think that more people have to well and have fun. I will The first week Coville lived in the appreciate freedom and look at things United States, her cousin took her on a more open-minded. Don’t judge too write as often as I can double-date to a restaurant, Joey’s Sta- quickly,” she says.

and you, my dear child, should do the same. Always be my brave little girl and, with God’s help, we will see each other again. I send you many thousand kisses, your Mommy.”

— Coville’s mother’s last words to her on the postcard

ABOVE Coville’s parents pre-Holocaust. RIGHT Coville’s immigrant identification card.

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IN THEIR WORDS

RANO STANKEVSKAYA Born: 1956 in Moscow // Became a citizen: 2013

I respect this country. The people are very open, very self-expressed. I enjoy being here and now because I’ve received so much, I want to give back and that is Girls Inc., which provides a great way to give back, a great way to teach children. I took training on how to teach mindfulness for kids and thought I could do it here [Girls Inc.]. I incorporated dancing into how I teach, and more and more girls are coming. The main idea is to teach the girls how to be aware of what they are seeing, how they feel, how they act and even how they move, with dancing.

Story and photo by Heather Merriman

As part of Rano Stankevskaya’s movement class at Girls Inc., she demonstrates to the girls how a clear brain and mind is an important part of being aware of their emotions and their bodies.

I’m from Moscow — a product of the Soviet Union at that time. It was very clear what is wrong, what is right, what is black, what is white at that time. It’s not like we didn’t talk about how we felt, it was forgiven, but morality was very good.

I got my citizenship last year and I feel very comfortable now — but not so totally because my background still shows up. Maybe I feel more comfortable because I feel more protected. You can learn whatever you want here.

It wasn’t easy. It was very challenging, and I wanted to learn English first. I went to SCTI every day. And then I learned to drive a car and that was very stressful, but I did it.

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IN THEIR WORDS

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CLIFF ROLES

Born: 1953 in Croydon, England // Became a citizen: 2014

I decided I wanted to spend the rest of my life in this country. It was very important for me to put my stamp on that ... Asolo Repertory Theatre’s production of 1776 played a great role in my (wanting to become a citizen). My spending months learning about how the Declaration of Independence was signed, why it was signed, the history of it … it was fascinating! This is a country with a great history that I want to be part of. I got my citizenship in 2014.

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Freedom is very, very valuable. For someone who experienced (post World War II) and the fall of communism in Germany — to see the reaction of the East Germany meant a lot … I determined at that time that I’d never put myself in a position where I wasn’t free, so it was easy to come to the States.

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PRIDE IN SERVICE //

Thanking and remembering those who serve our country. The Daughters of the American Revolution is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting patriotism and preserving history. Every member of the Daughters of the American Revolution has traced her ancestors back to the Revolutionary War and has proven it with records — one can’t be a member otherwise. The group isn’t politically or religiously affiliated, but each member is philanthropic. The Sara de Soto chapter hosts more than 144 members involved in 32 committees. Their work throughout the year involves marching in parades, hosting a history fair for students, giving scholarships, conservation, services for veterans and hosting Constitution Week, to name a few.

Photos by Mallory Gnaegy

Sue Harris, grandmother of David Morgan with his son, Liam Morgan, and mother Rebecca Morgan represent four generations of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Our motto is God, home and country. You have to be a presence out there to remember the American Revolution because we were a special country that was born in a special way, and it’s important to remember the sacrifices we took.” — Cynthia Flynn Soulandros

Every year, Daughters of the American Revolution honors a history teacher. This year it honored Robert Shackelford of Sarasota High School. He has been teaching history for 23 years. Here Cynthia Flynn Soulandros gives him a certificiate to help celebrate his contributions to teaching youth.

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Julie really represents a changing of the guard, if you will. From organization leadership from the Korea/Vietnam era service to Julie and I are sort of being the first wave of OIF and OEF veterans that are exiting military service and are trying to find our way through the civilian transformation into professional careers … ” — Ryan Simonson Ryan and Julie Simonson with Starbuck. “He’s a real hero,” Julie says of Ryan, who was deployed for the invasion of Iraq in 2003.

Ryan’s tank helmet from his time in Iraq in 2003. “It was exhilarating,” he says.

Photos by Harriet Sokmensuer

The couple’s dog tags. Julie served as first lieutenant in the U.S. Army from 1998 to 2004, and Ryan was a captain.

The past couple of months have been big for Ryan and Julie Simonson. In May, Julie was named Veteran of the Year by the Knights of Columbus, and Ryan co-founded Veteran U, an organization focusing on helping veterans who have recently left the military through motivation, mentoring and making a difference in the community.

The Oaks Club saluTes Our COmmuniTy’s

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The Oaks Club

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PRIDE IN SERVICE

THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2014

Continued from page 16 Local attorney Bill Robertson hosts a radio show on 106.9 FM and 1220AM WSRQ that dedicates the last Friday of each month to veterans and the Helping Our Heroes Initiative. U.S. Navy veteran, single mother of two and fulltime nursing student Jessica Baldwin was the first veteran guest on the show. After sharing her story, her services and skill set, CoolToday offered her a job as a result.

Photos by Harriet Sokmensuer

ABOVE Seven-hundred-and-ninety-two panels of glass produce shade for guests in the plaza’s amphitheater. BELOW The plaza includes 21-star projection maps of the Earth. In the center of the plaza, the largest map is engraved into the red brick foundation. A bronze star highlights Sarasota and Washington, D.C. (not pictured).

Sarasota National Cemetery will honor those who have fallen and those defending our nation with Patriot Plaza, which recently opened. The plaza is an outdoor memorial compiled of artwork and architecture. Although the open-air amphitheater draws guests’ attention to the sky, small details throughout the plaza remind guests to take their time and remember the individuals who fought for our freedom.

THE MANATEE COUNTY Y SUPPORTS THE MILITARY Active Military are welcome to workout at the Y at no cost.

Heather Merriman

As a customer service representative, Jessica Baldwin works with customers, performing tasks such as booking calls for maintenance and service.

It’s very similar in the sense that it’s very fast-paced and we all work at a team. It’s work. There are no excuses; you have to get it done.” — Jessica Baldwin

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In addition to welcoming our military at the Y we offer special discounts throughout the year for our active military to join as a family. Join the Y and Membership at the Y includes: 100+ Group Exercise Classes Program Discounts Access to all branches 12 Weeks to a New You Program Kid Zone (babysitting while parents workout)

602 Weston Pointe Court $899,900 USD Courtyard Home in Bay Isles on Longboat Key. Gated with heated pool, guest suite, open plan and Boat Dock. Easy access to Sarasota Bay.

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Enjoy facilities at the Y such as; available for a limited time Indoor Pool, Outdoor Pool, Sports Fields, Indoor Gymnasium, Teen Center, Game Room and more.

Lakewood Ranch Branch 5100 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Bradenton Bradenton Branch 3805 59th Street West, Bradenton Parrish Branch 12214 US 301 N, Parrish

5591 Cannes Circle, #403 $419,000 USD Turnkey Furnished Gated (Newer) Condominium on boating water. Upscale amenities and very close to downtown and Siesta Key.

5645 America Drive $1,149,000 USD Amazing Tuscan retreat rebuilt in 2006 with endless upgrades. Spectacular backyard with heated pool. One of the best boating water homes east of 41. Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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Facilities and programs will vary by branch. Visit a Manatee County Y near you to find out more about our military discount or visit www.manateeymca.org.

THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2014

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THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2014

SARASOTA & MANATEE COUNTIES

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MANATEE COUNTY

BRADENTON MARAUDERS’ INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION — Enjoy Marauders baseball and fireworks after the game, at McKechnie Field, in Bradenton. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., as the Marauders take on the Fort Myers Miracle. The Marauders take the field at 6:30 p.m. A fireworks show in honor of Independence Day follows the game. Tickets are $6 to $8. Call 747-3031.

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PRIMROSE SCHOOL’S RED, WHITE AND BLUE PARADE— Students at Primrose School at Lakewood Ranch Town Center will don red, white and blue attire during the school’s Fourth of July celebration at 4:30 p.m. at the school, located at 9127 Town Center Parkway. The parade will last about five minutes. Parents and families are invited to celebrate patriotic pride with their children. Call 373-6363.

21ST ANNUAL FIREWORKS EXTRAVAGANZA — The BeachHouse Restaurant provides a spectacular vista to watch the fireworks light up over the Gulf of Mexico. Fireworks start shortly after dark, weather permitting. VIP party packages are available. Entertainment will be provided by DJ John Rinell. For more information, call 779-2222.

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FRIDAY, JULY 4 LONGBOAT KEY

FREEDOM FEST PARADE — The annual Fourth of July parade takes place on Longboat Key. Come decked in your finest red, white and blue and decorate your bike or wagon and take part in the patriotic parade. Parade lineup begins at 8:30 a.m. on Bay Isles Road; parade takes place at 9 a.m. Festivities will also include games, food and fun. Free. Call 383-2466.

MANATEE COUNTY

ANNA MARIA PRIVATEERS’ INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE — This annual Fourth of July event marches through all three towns on Anna Maria Island. The parade begins at 10 a.m. on Coquina Beach and ends at Anna Maria Island Bayfront Park. For more information, visit amiprivateers. org. MUSIC ON MAIN — Head to Lakewood Ranch Main Street from 6 to 9 p.m. for a free concert. Proceeds from the event will benefit Lakewood Ranch Community Fund. For more

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information, call 462-2357. PALMETTO 4TH OF JULY FESTIVAL — Palmetto Community Redevelopment Agency presents American Idol Scottie McCreery for a 7 p.m. free concert at Sutton Park Pavilion. After the concert, fireworks will light up the sky over the Manatee River after dark. For more information, visit PalmettoCRA.org or call 723-4988. 28TH ANNUAL SANDBAR FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR — Enjoy fireworks at the Sandbar Restaurant shortly after dark, weather permitting. VIP party packages are available. For more information, call 778-8709.

SARASOTA

GLORIA MUSICAE JULY 4 CONCERT ‘PATRIOTIC SPECTACULAR’ — This annual concert takes place at 4:30 p.m. at First United Methodist Church. Enjoy the patriotic concert, and then stay downtown to watch the fireworks. Cost is $35. Call 953-3368.

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THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2014

“ GOLF ” NOT JUST FOR

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 2 ‘The Friendliest Catch’ Outing for the Physically and Mentally Challenged 9 a.m. at City Island By invitation only.

MON–FRI 9AM-5PM • SAT 10AM-3PM • SUN CLOSED 5707 19th St. E, Ellenton • Exit 224 off I-75, Across from Ellenton Premium Outlets 941.479.7948 • WWW.GOLFCAROUTLET.COM AUTHORIZED DEALER 144046

‘Fleming’s Fan Fest’ with local race teams 5 p.m. at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar Free.

Island Boutique

Texas Hold ’em Poker Tournament 6 p.m. at Sarasota Kennel Club Tickets $75.

THURSDAY, JULY 3

‘Boats by the Bay’ block party and Festival Parade of Boats 5 p.m. party, 7 p.m. parade at Main Street, Sarasota Free.

SATURDAY, JULY 5

Motorcycle Freedom Ride 9:30 a.m. at Laurel Oak Country Club Tickets $10. ‘Meet and Greet Who’s in the Driver’s Seat’ 10:30 a.m. at Hyatt Regency, Sarasota Tickets $5 adults, children free.

Bringing easy Island style to Siesta Key

Powerboats by the Bay Suncoast Super Boat Grand Prix 11 a.m. at Laurel Oak Country Club Free.

5212 ½ Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key 941-342-0104

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TROPICAL FOURTH OF JULY — Enjoy the beauty of the gardens starting at 6 p.m. and stay for the bayfront fireworks, at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Cost is $17 for members and $20 for non-members. Free for children ages 11 and younger. Call 366-5731. BAYFRONT FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR — The fireworks display takes place at approximately 9 p.m. at the Sarasota bayfront. Free. Call 365-4232.

‘Miss Super Boat Grand Prix’ Bikini Contest 3 p.m. at Centennial Park Free.

SIESTA KEY

SIESTA KEY FIREWORKS CELEBRATION — The fireworks are blasted off just north of the volleyball courts, so they can be viewed from the Gulf, Intracoastal Waterway and, in particular, South Siesta Beach. The VIP party (tickets $150) begins at 5:30 p.m., and the fireworks display begins at 9 p.m. Call 349-3800.

SUNDAY, JULY 6

Suncoast Super Boat Grand Prix Boat Race Two heats at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at Lido Beach Free.

We Cover

Tropical 4th of July Party Spectacular Display of Lights over Sarasota Bay

All...

Night of food and fun for the whole family begins at 6:00pm!

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THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2014

Continued from page 16 This year will be a year to remember for Command Sgt. Maj. Matthew Collis. In the spring, the Braden River High School teacher received the Teacher of the Year award. Collis has been teaching for 15 years and says the recognition was “truly unexpected.” He instructs the ROTC program and says he tries to instill the importance of freedom in his students every day. “We are free,” he says. “But freedom is not free, as you know.”

Much like a journal, the visual jog of my memory really brought me back to those days, that time and those people.” — Vincent Carroll

Kelsey Grau

In 1971, The Rev. Vincent Carroll, now a retired Navy chaplain and senior pastor of the Longboat Island Chapel, received orders to force logistics command in the north of Da Nang, Vietnam. There, he witnessed and experienced the realities of war and the hardships of a soldier. Thirty-five years later, as he organized more than 400 photos he captured during that time, Carroll’s memories became heartfelt and raw poems, a collection known as “Poems from Da Nang” that tells the compelling story of life on the battlefield.

Harriet Sokmensuer

Command Sgt. Maj. Matthew Collis can add “Teacher of the Year” to his long list of awards and decorations.

2014 143137

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THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2014

BY AMANDA SEBASTIANO Dean of USF Sarasota-Manatee’s College of Hospitality and Technology Leadership Cihan Cobanoglu has always wanted to travel the world.

Amanda Sebastiano

American Education Cihan Cobanoglu’s jump into higher learning taught him to appreciate America. Now, he’s a U.S. citizen.

n Turkish, Cihan Cobanoglu’s first name means universe. The dean of USF Sarasota-Manatee’s College of Hospitality and Technology Leadership isn’t sure if his mother knew when he was born that he would be a traveler, but by his teenage years, everyone knew. “I always walked around telling my family and friends, ‘I want to travel, I’m going to travel,’” Cobanoglu says. A native of Turkey, Cobanoglu knew he would travel the world, but he didn’t know his journey Born: 1971 in would start as an au pair in LonIstanbul, Turkey don. “Everyone said I was making Became a U.S. the biggest mistake of my life,” citizen: 2013 Cobanoglu says of his decision to leave his manager position at a Marriott hotel in Turkey for the nanny position in London. “I don’t know why, but I felt like I had to go.” Cobanoglu’s decision created a domino effect surrounding what he calls one of his greatest accomplishments to date — becoming an American citizen. After holding a green card for five years, Cobanoglu became a citizen in August 2013. “I’m so proud to be an American,” Cobanoglu says. “I’ll never take it for granted. I value my passport and the freedom it provides. In Turkey, for example, you have to go through a process that takes months and involves faceto-face interviews and paperwork. In America, there truly is opportunity and freedom.” His two children, Bora, a senior at Lakewood Ranch High School, and Marisa, a first-grade student at Gullett Elementary, are citizens by birth. Cobanoglu’s journey to America was set in motion in the mid-’90s when he worked as a restaurant manager of a Turkish restaurant in London. A customer suggested Cobanoglu apply for schools in America, after learning he want-

vinced him to travel to Sarasota to consider a potential associate professor position at the school. “I had never seen such beautiful beaches,” Cobanoglu says. “I had seen the water before, but not like this; it was a paradise.” Cobanoglu accepted the position and moved in April 2010 to East County. Today, Cobanoglu, a resident of GreyHawk Landing, works to help students live dreams similar to his own — of traveling the world to learn culinary and other hospitality practices from different cultures. He wants to globalize the minds of his students by creating programs such Courtesy photo as the two-for-two proCihan Cobanoglu, center, helps his friend, Onur Çiftçi, bartend in gram, in which two stu1991 at Naz Hotel, Bodrum, Turkey. dents travel to China for two years to study at Chied to earn his master’s degree in hospital- nese hospitality schools. But Cobanoglu still ity management but couldn’t afford to attend must secure $5 million in funding to make the schools in London. program possible. Cobanoglu applied to five schools. OklahoCobanoglu also employs faculty members ma State accepted him first. from other countries, such as Russia, and visitCobanoglu began his new life in America ing chef professors, such as Burak Mil, who reApril 3, 1996. It was his first time in the coun- cently returned to Turkey after spending a year try. instructing at the Culinary Innovation Lab and After earning his master’s degree and Ph.D. in the classroom at USF Sarasota-Manatee. from Oklahoma State, he worked for three Having professors from other countries years as an associate professor at the Universi- teach American students brings to life the esty of Delaware, until he received a call from Dr. sence of America. Jay Schrock, founding director of the School of “America is a melting pot,” Cobanoglu says. Hotel and Restaurant Management at Univer- “There are people here from all over the world, sity South Florida Sarasota-Manatee. who are looking for opportunities. This is the Schrock researched Cobanoglu and con- land of opportunity.”

America is a melting pot. There are people here from all over the world who are looking for opportunities. This is the land of opportunity.”

SPIRIT OF AMERICA

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THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2014

IN THEIR WORDS

FRED LOPEZ

Born: 1946 in San Isidro Nueva Ecija, Philippines // Became a citizen: 1976

I moved to the United States in the ’70s, because I wanted an American education. I knew if I wanted to be something, to go to that next level, I had to be in America. Having a degree from the Philippines wasn’t enough to get the kind of work I wanted. I needed to study here. Courtesy photo

Story and photo by Amanda Sebastiano

ABOVE Fred Lopez talks to individuals who have participated in American Cancer Society events and informs them of upcoming happenings. He volunteers for ACS because he wants to help people like himself who are affected directly or indirectly by cancer. INSET Lopez in 1975 in the Philippines.

I know more about American history than most people. I have a passion for Abraham Lincoln. Up until recently, I used to be able to recite the Gettysburg address. So, when they asked me questions like, ‘Why do you want to be a citizen?’ and ‘Who was the first president of the United States?’ it was easy for me. I became a citizen in 1976.

After I graduated from New York University (NYU) with a Bachelor of Science in accounting, I started from the bottom. I worked as a junior auditor for Calvin Klein, and after working, working, I was hired by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. I worked there for 21 years. My office was in the World Trade Center, but after 9/11, my wife and I moved to Lakewood Ranch. I worked and I worked throughout my life, and after my wife died in 2007, I didn’t want to work anymore. No, I didn’t want to work for money anymore; I’m done with that. I wanted to volunteer my time and help people. I’ve always wanted to help other people; I just didn’t know how. I want to give back. That’s what I’ve always wanted.

Goodwill Manasota is committed to providing FREE career and other essential human services to all our returning veterans. Please call 941.355.2721 to inquire today. GOODWILL DOG TAGS 100% of the proceeds goes toward helping our veterans find employment. Available at Goo Goodwill stores. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! CHANGING LIVES THROUGH THE POWER OF WORK 143930

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THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2014

HAPPY

IN THEIR WORDS

TODD POKRYWA

4 JULY th

Born: 1973 in Guelph, Ontario, Canada // Became a citizen: 2010

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Story and photo by Mallory Gnaegy

CASA DE NARANJA

I think both countries have a very close relationship, and they are one another’s largest trading partner, so there’s a lot of simiCourtesy photo larity in being able to move here and thrive. It isn’t a huge transition ... I have found that, really, if you have diligence, perseverance and are dedicated to something you’re passionate about you can be successful in the United States. … I have made a career for myself that I’m proud of. I continue to look out the windshield rather than the rearview mirror, and as Wayne Gretsky has said, ‘I skate to where the hockey puck will be and not where it has been.’

“West of the Trail” Finely crafted and attention to detail shows throughout this unique one of a kind home. 3 BR, 4 BA, Den, Gourmet Kitchen with top of the line appliances. Beautiful antique light fixtures throughout. The Loggia is accessible from the Living Room, Baths & Master. Relax around the heated pool and spa and enjoy the outdoor kitchen. A great place to call home www.1131orange.com $1,445,000

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Great Location close to all the cultural amenities of downtown Sarasota. Only 20 condos in this small building but full use of all the amenities located in the large building. Concierge, Valet, Library w/Billiards, Business Center, Fitness Center, His & Her Sauna, BBQ Grilling Area and Pool. 1 BR/ 1 1/2 Baths, Granite, Stainless Appliances. www.1268broadway.com $189,000

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SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2014

GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE //

Our republic relies on citizen participation to remain strong. To preserve our rights, we must exercise them. Bridget Ziegler with her daughter, Reagan Reese, and husband, Christian.

A businesswoman, active member in the community, wife and mother, Bridget Ziegler has a passion for guaranteeing that children in Sarasota County have access to world-class education. “The main reason I decided to jump into the Sarasota County School Board race for the District 1 seat was my daughter, Reagan Reese,” says Ziegler. Appointed by Gov. Rick Scott to serve the rest of Carol Todd’s recently vacated seat, Ziegler is running for Sarasota County School Board District 1 seat in the Aug. 26 election.

Heather Merriman

Something changes in you as soon as you become a parent. There becomes an innate fire inside you to ensure you provide your child with every tool necessary to guarantee success — which begins with education.” — Bridget Ziegler

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SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2014

Freedom of religion is a fundamental right in the U.S. The Baha’is believe in a spiritual unity in all of humanity. On May 31, at Bayfront Park, the Baha’is invited other religious and non-religious community members to meet and share prayers for the well-being of the community.

RIGHT Harvey Garver reads his prayer to the group.

Photos by Mallory Gnaegy

The world is in a lot of trouble. There’s a lot of stuff going on and a lot of people are like, ‘What can you do?’ Prayer is a good thing for that.” — Mike Solomon

Bob McComb, the Rev. Phil Garrison, George Starcher and Enayat Sohaili

Diane Stinnett

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SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2014

GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE

Anybody who has any sense of patriotism recognizes how important it is to vote and to be knowledgeable of the people on the ballot. I think it’s really unfortunate so many people think their vote isn’t going to matter. If you don’t vote, you get the government you deserve.” — Mike Bennett

Continued from page 26

Vanessa Baugh speaks to Esplanade residents at a town hall-style meeting.

Assistant Superintendent of Elections Scott Farrington and Supervisor of Elections Mike Bennett

Amanda Sebastiano

As a Lakewood Ranch business owner and resident, District 5 Commissioner Vanessa Baugh hasn’t been able to get the issue of congestion on University Parkway — a road on which she travels daily — off her mind since she took office in November 2012. Baugh wouldn’t let herself get discouraged when she was met with opposition to multimillion-dollar projects that would transform traffic on University, as well as other projects, she said: Being a female politician has taught her to have thick skin. “To be in politics, especially as a woman, you have to be strong and you have to be a fighter,” Baugh said.

Pam Eubanks

The Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office has modified its operations to offer more early-ballot locations, with four sites selected for the primaries later this summer and the November elections. “Times have changed,” Supervisor of Elections Mike Bennett, a former Florida senator, says. The importance of voting has not gone away. What has changed is the method of voting. People used to make it a community event to go vote, but when turnout started going down, legislation changed to allow voting by mail and early voting. “We wanted to make sure people would turn out to vote,” he says.

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SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2014

I didn’t come to Sarasota after the Marines. It was a roundabout way, but I knew I wanted to end up in Florida. I love the scenery, the coast, the beaches. And Florida has always had a very big part of my heart.” — Mark Cunningham

Brandy Coffey

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RIGHT Mark Cunningham raises the American flag in front of the Administration Building on Ringling Boulevard. Kelsey Grau

Sarasota County Assistant Administrator Mark Cunningham has more than two decades of knowledge in planning and zoning operations for county and city governments. From November 1984 to August 1991, Cunningham was also a member of the United States Marine Corps.

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603 LONGBOAT KEY TOWER Rare opportunity to own a 3 bedroom end unit on Longboat Key with gorgeous gulf to bay panoramic views! Relax as you gaze at the emerald green Gulf of Mexico all day long. Longboat Key Towers has 600’ of beach front.

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SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2014

SECOND CHANCES //

Facing adversity requires a courage of its own. LEFT Betty Ramspeck rescued Flower from Animal Services. A man had adopted Flower from Animal Services, but returned her after she was hit by a car. Flower needs to have surgery on her back leg, and Ramspeck is currently trying to raise the funds for the operation.

Betty Ramspeck is a special-needs teacher by day and runs a no-kill animal shelter, Hooves, Paws and Claws, the rest of the hours in her day. She opened the East County-based shelter in spring 2013. She says the only reason she continues teaching is to pay for the shelter; she only started receiving donations recently. One of her former students, Danny Hetzel, who graduated last year, volunteers daily.

Ramspeck rescued Sinatra from euthenization. He had an injured back foot. His name comes from his blue eyes, similar to Frank Sinatra’s. BELOW Isaac.

Photos by Mallory Gnaegy

It is a no-kill shelter, but it’s more of a Betty-is-a-sucker-andwill-keep-you-forever place.” — Betty Ramspeck

Everything You Want In A Siesta Key Condo!

Richard’s has been pioneering the way natural and specialty foods are sold in Florida since 1979. Hand-selecting each item with our customer in mind - bringing great quality and great value together each and every day. Our smaller, locally-owned, intimate stores offer unparalleled customer service.

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17 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU! RichardsFoodporium.com *These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Prices good for June 2014 only. Product availability may vary at each location. While supplies last.

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SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2014

For more than a decade, Cory Collins has battled addiction. But from his darkest times, he’s discovered a way to give back and stay clean — volunteering in the kitchen at the Salvation Army’s Center of Hope in downtown Sarasota. Collins wanted to become a police officer before pain from a back injury and some prescribed medication turned into a drug problem. Collins started his community service in the kitchen at the Salvation Army, and although his hours are completed, he continues to volunteer.

Heather Merriman

“It’s beneficial to me, as a survivor, to not only realize how fortunate I am, but to make someone smile at the end of their experience here,” says Sherrie Henderson.

For more than two years, cancer survivor Sherrie Henderson has been an office volunteer at the American Cancer Society. Although she was one of lucky ones who did not lose her hair from chemotherapy, it’s important to her to help others battling the disease to pick out wigs (or hats and scarves) when they come to the ACS Resource Center. Some of the people who come in here are just starting their journey, while others have been battling cancer for a while. A lot of people come in a little down, but they leave feeling better. “‘Look good, feel better,’ it’s a program we have here at American Cancer Society, but it’s a reality as well. You don’t always feel that great about yourself with all the changes going on in your body, so little boosts of self-confidence can really take your mind off of what you’re going through.”

Cory Collins, 26, laughs as he talks with fellow volunteer Roland Provence. Kelsey Grau

... it feels so good to come here and give back to other people, knowing you’re helping. It helps boost your confidence a little and reminds you that it’s a big world out there. You’re not the only one suffering.” — Cory Collins

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SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2014

SECOND CHANCES Continued from page 30

LEFT Veerle Picard, a physical therapist at Legacy Therapy on Longboat Key, assists Arthur Adams in his exercise. Earlier this year, Adams missed a step while walking down the stairs and broke his hip. He’s working with Picard at Legacy to regain his strength and balance.

With four locations in Southwest Florida, Legacy Physical Therapy and Sports Training uses a personal touch to help patients with many different types of injuries or disorders reach a maximum functional level. Everything from neck or back pain to balance issues can be addressed with exercises and movements at Legacy.

Among the paperback romance novels and classic tales of affection, there’s plenty of love to be found at the bookstore. And that’s just what David and B.J. Bishop, right, did in June 2011. While looking for a book her grief counselor recommended, B.J. ran into David. As the two started talking, they discovered they both had lost their spouses in 2009. That conversation led to a two-hour coffee date and then dinner that night. In October, the couple exchanged vows and now lives on Longboat Key with their dog, Molly. “It has just been the most amazing time in my life because it was so unexpected,” says B.J.

Photos by Kelsey Grau

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SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2014

Top 1% Producer in Real Estate Sales for Sarasota & Manatee County!

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Gardener Pat Brandon has always gardened. Here she pulls weeds from her bed of marigolds.

Marcy Freeman, Catherine Dente and Leila Frangie founded the Culverhouse Community Garden in 2009. They lived in a gated neighborhood that prevented them from having gardens you could see from the street. The fenced-in, nearly 2-acre garden is inside the Culverhouse Nature Park, located in south Sarasota. It consists of 80 plots approximately 8 feet wide by 12 to 30 feet long, maintained by 170 people. The founders recommend a twice-weekly visit to maintain one plot. In addition to that, members must volunteer 16 hours to help maintain the entire land — each has a designated chore, everything from repairing tools and organizing the shed, to mowing or chairing the membership.

LIGHTHOUSE POINT GULFSIDE $8,900,000 Gated 5BR w/private beach & gulffront pool.

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Photos by Mallory Gnaegy

Catherine Dente shows off an eggplant. She also grows basil, string beans, okra, melons, cantelope, sweet potatoes, zapalo, pineapple and organic watermelon.

We had no electricity or water back when we founded it. Now we have four solar panels, and the Culverhouses dug us a well.” — Marcy Freeman

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An organic watermelon

SPIRIT OF AMERICA

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2014

VOLUNTEERING Continued from page 33

As Hataitaya “Tai” Rohan walks through the hallways of Ashton Place, residents stop her to say “thank you.” In November, Rohan, 18, built a garden for the community to earn the Girl Scout’s highest award, the Girl Scout Gold Award. She says the skills she learned while building the garden were valuable, but it’s the thanks she receives from the residents that she finds rewarding. To earn the Gold Award, Girl Scouts must find and solve an in issue in the community. Rohan wanted to give back the feeling of peace to an assisted-living facility and thought a garden would be a great addition. The project took Rohan 93 hours to complete. The garden has brought peace and new friends to Ashton Place, including rabbits and butterflies. Looking forward, Rohan says she wants to work in biomedicine and work closely with others.

Tai Rohan tends to the garden, which is home to rabbits and butterflies, every other week.

Harriet Sokmensuer

Hearing from them, I feel accomplished,” says Rohan about hearing thank you’s from the Ashton Place residents.

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