Holiday wish lists

As 2013 comes to a close, it is a busy time for the Manatee School Board. As we look ahead for our students, parents, teachers, staff and county residents, my wish is for reconciliation.

For our district, the task is to reconcile accounts and ensure that we comply with all of the laws and requirements of our state statutes.

My wish for 2014 is one of reconciliation for our relationships and a time to rebuild trust. May the work we are doing each day align the educational outcomes with the best support for those goals and may we celebrate a new year with reports of success for students and staff. May we remain steadfast in ensuring that this chapter of history is closed, but lessons learned not forgotten.

May we continue to be a place where people want to call home and in this season of caring, we ask that you bless the children who are homeless and provide comfort, shelter and hope for all.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all,

— Julie Aranibar, chairwoman of the Manatee County School Board

Dear Community,
I would like to first thank the East County Observer for giving me this opportunity to write my “wish list;” they have been a true friend of the East Manatee Fire Rescue District over the years.

My wish list:

1. I wish everyone would think of our men and women serving in the military and especially those serving overseas who will not get to spend the holidays with the ones they love. I wish them all a safe holiday and a speedy return home.

2. I wish everyone would thank the veterans who have served in the military defending “us” so that we may be safe in our homes over these holidays. Especially our disabled Veterans, thank you.

3. I wish all first responders serving our communities a safe year ahead, and that they come home at the end of every shift.

4. I wish more could be done for the tens of thousands who suffer from mental illness. We all know it’s an issue, but too little is done.

5. I wish the best for our elected officials. It’s a tough job most of the time, is seldom appreciated, and you will never please everyone.

6. I get to meet a lot of very nice, very different people because of my job. I wish this continues in the coming year.

7. I wish that the roads in the area of I-75 and University Parkway are expanded in a timely manner. It is very difficult to get through this area now during rush hour traffic, and can be very difficult when the fire crews are trying to get an engine to an emergency. With the opening of the new mall and a future international rowing competition at hand, I am very concerned we may not be able to have a prompt response when we are needed most.

8. Lastly, I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season.

— Byron J. Teates, Fire Chief of East Manatee Fire Rescue

The Lakewood Ranch Community Activities group has a mission to enrich Lakewood Ranch by fostering a sense of community and friendships through memorable events and social clubs.

(The year) 2013 was a year of explosive growth for our community. With growth comes additional needs, and, fortunately, a larger pool of resources, funding and infrastructure to support those necessities.

A few items on our 2014 wish list include: additional resident volunteers interested in participating at our events and joining our board (Four to six members that have knowledge in budgeting, legal matters for non-profits, and those that just love entertaining a community).

Our second wish is for an all encompassing turn-key entertainment venue. How accommodating would that be? One location with an outdoor amphitheater, ample parking, water and electric hook ups and public restrooms. Oh what fun it is to dream!

Happy Holidays Lakewood Ranch. Help make our wishes come true by getting involved to help build a bigger and better entertainment organization!

— Lori Basilone, director of Lakewood Ranch Community Activities.

My Holiday Wishes for Lakewood Ranch:

• Prosperity for our local small businesses. Since I am a product of a small, local business owner, I spend my money locally. My friends tease me that I never leave my Lakewood Ranch “bubble,” and I wear that badge with pride. Small businesses employ 57% p of the private workforce (77 million people) and 60% to 80% of all new jobs come from small businesses. These are our friends and neighbors, so my wish is to keep our local economy growing strong by choosing local.

• Peace on earth. Well, earth might be difficult to tackle, but we can accomplish peaceful relations right here in our own community. I never could understand how people can go through life always assuming the worst in others and acting accordingly. What would it be like if we were all respectful and kind to each other? My wish is for everyone to start the day pledging to be kind, even in the face of conflict. Smile your way through your day, and we truly will become the friendliest community on earth.

• “All I want for Christmas…is you!” Most of our local community organizations depend almost entirely on volunteers to be able to help those in need. So, my wish is for people to get more involved and volunteer to do something. If you love animals, volunteer at an animal shelter; if you like planning big parties and events, volunteer with Lori Basilone at Community Activities Corp.; if you want to bring your neighbors closer together, volunteer for your local neighborhood committee; or, become a mentor for a struggling child through Big Brothers Big Sisters. The volunteer opportunities in our community are boundless. “I slept and dreamt that life was joy. I awoke and saw that life was service. I acted and behold, service was joy.” —Rabindranath Tagore.

— Eva Rey, executive director of Lakewood Ranch Town Hall

The Center for Building Hope has a remarkable mission of providing the highest quality programs and services to people affected by cancer in our community, free of charge. We have created an environment that truly helps change people’s lives and we give them hope.

We offer more than 150 programs to cancer patients, their family members and caregivers at absolutely no charge. So, you can see, we really need your help in providing even more services to our community. Here is how you can help us. We want to offer a unique stocking stuffer — A cool Chance Draw ticket for a Crystal Cruise – “Skyscrapers to Ice Castles” a 12-day cruise beginning June 1, 2014 from New York to Reykjavik, Iceland, visiting the ports of Manhattan, Newport, Boston, Bar Harbor and St. John’s, Newfoundland. Chance draw tickets are $50 each and can be purchased at

www.centerforbuildinghope.org/crystalcruise. The drawing is valued at $7,420 and the winner will be notified Feb.15, 2014. Wouldn’t you love to find this chance draw in your stocking?

We really want to raise awareness in our community and further our mission. Center for Building Hope focuses on people, and how we can empower them to live their lives to the fullest in every aspect of their daily life. You can really help us by passing this message forward to all those in our community affected by cancer and for those that can help monetarily, visit www.centerforbuildinghope.org/donate to make a donation.

This year we have provided 30,000 hours of free support to families in our community. It costs $58 for every hour of support that we provide and 80 cents of every dollar we receive goes directly to programs.

Come and take a tour of our facility at 5481 Communications Parkway, Sarasota, or call us at 941-921-5539 for further ways you can help. We sincerely thank you for touching lives in our community.
Best Wishes for a Great Holiday Season,

Carl Ritter, CEO of Center for Building Hope

As a senior leader in the not-for-profit community for the past 40 years, I have seen many changes. But, one thing remains the same: the resources available to meet the needs are always limited. They are limited in dollars by the general health of the economy or generosity of our people. They are limited in volunteer time by the migrating interests of our citizens and the efficiency of service delivery. And, most recently, they are limited by the huge expansion of worthy causes and increase of organizations addressing societal needs.

I wish for continuation of the very generous nature of our communities’ residents, whether year round or part time, in support of the arts and other organizations that contribute to the fabric of a great place to live.
I wish for support to increase for services designated to improve the lives of people with disabilities, whether their disability is life-long or temporary.

Our community includes children, high school students, young adults and seniors who are differently able and deserve to live life to the fullest extent possible. All of us need a quality education, job skills training, jobs, a living wage and access to services. In short, we are all citizens who ought to have a seat at the table.

And finally, I wish our community leaders become motivated to encourage and support collaborations, partnerships and consolidations of our many organizations that provide some duplication of service. We could use the help of the local government officials, the corporate or family foundations, United Way or the influential Community Foundations.

Those of us delivering our mission of service to those most in need often build silos that need to be torn down. Help us, please!

— Ladd Waldo, CEO of Easter Seals Southwest Florida

This holiday season, there is much I am grateful for in my community, along with family and friends. As the new year approaches, we have much to look forward to, but also much to hope for in 2014.

Throughout this year, I have been incredibly thankful for the support community organizations have shown for our veterans. Whether it is participating in a Manasota Operation Troop Support packing party, or taking the family to the Sarasota Chalk Festival to view the beautiful and patriotic artwork, my home makes me proud every day.

But there are still too many homeless veterans in desperate need of assistance, as well as veterans who have returned home and are unable to find engaging employment. It is my most fervent wish that we keep them in our hearts and minds this holiday season and work hard to serve them as they have served us, and our country.

With the exciting additions along the University Parkway comes heavy traffic congestion along the I-75 interchange that would make even Santa Claus late. I know this concern tops many constituents’ wish lists, especially as the holiday season gives way to a season of increased tourism and activity in our area.

As we continue to grow, making sure improving traffic and road conditions, such as those along Verna Road, are top priorities so that everyone can safely enjoy what our community has to offer.

I wish everyone a happy holiday season and New Year!

— Greg Steube, representative of District 73

There are so many things that I wish could be accomplished in 2014, but I know in the real world there are many factors to consider.

I would love to see unemployment go away, indigent care be handled, foreclosures stop, and Meals on Wheels close their doors because everyone had food and the services that they need! Also, lets not forget peace around the world, too! I would love to see the family unit be revived and all the homeless have homes.

Obviously, there are so many things I wish and pray could be done. These are things that every citizen needs to be involved in, and we need to all strive to accomplish them.

As a county commissioner, I can tell you that these items are never far from my mind, and I wish there was a clear answer in how to handle all of them.

Now, other local items that I would put on my wish list:

1. University Parkway and surrounding areas, including 75, be redone to handle the traffic from the new mall, etc. Manatee County has made this a priority with the Metropolitan Planning Organization, however, we must remember that this is not just Manatee County. University Parkway is divided with Sarasota County, too.

Also, FDOT, has already said there are no monies available for this project for several years! With this being said, Manatee, Sarasota and our state, as well as Federal Representatives, are working hard to move forward on this project! Perhaps a little nudge from Santa would be helpful!

2. The old schoolhouse in Myakka — we are working to get the contributions to finish renovations. Myakka citizens need a place to have meetings, events etc., especially in a building that has so much meaning to that area. It is within reach to have the contributions this year. It is wonderful to see residents working toward this end.

3. 44th Street extension be done. This road is a topic that affects every inch of not just District 5, but all of Manatee County. Many residents are concerned about their neighborhoods, traffic and safety. It is true the county is in the process of obtaining permits, easements, etc. to move forward on this. Once the county starts the project, it will continue until it is complete. It starts at Cortez and ends at Lorraine Road. I want to thank Manatee County Public Works for working with the residents to make this as easy as possible. This road is very important because of not just an increase in traffic, but also in case of evacuation.

4. There are many projects that are underway that will make our community stronger and better. I don't mean just economic development, but the community working together to improve and help others. That would probably be my No. 1 wish. We are a community that gives to help others. I wish I could share with you the churches, businesses, individuals who have contacted me for names of families they could help during the holiday season. They have been so helpful to so many. There will be many families with presents and food that would otherwise have done without.

Manatee County is full of giving people — people who care about others — and my wish is that we would continue to grow and keep our sense of helping because that my friends is what Community is about.

In closing, there are many things I wish for. I know there are many more than the few I mentioned. We are on the road to recovery, yet slowly depending on where you are located. We still must keep a watchful eye on finances, etc., Unemployment is down but still needs to be lower. Many still need a job. My hope is that we continue to increase companies looking to increase staff. The economy is slowly turning around, and I believe Manatee is poised to prosper in 2014.

With that, I, and my family, wish you and yours a wonderful holiday and prosperous New Year!

— Vanessa Baugh, Manatee County District 5 Commissioner

My holiday wish list for 2013 includes every child in Manatee County. I wish each child could be surrounded by love, stability and encouragement, so they can be happy and confident in themselves. I wish each child will be healthy, well-nourished and well rested when they enter school each day, so they can concentrate in class and have energy to learn in pursuit of their goals.

I wish each child would have multiple adult role models and mentors totally invested in their educational success, because I believe the success of a student is directly proportional to the number of people who are committed to seeing them succeed.

I wish every child would feel calm and comfortable at school with their peers and their teachers so they could express their own unique individuality. I wish every child would dream big dreams and feel secure enough in themselves that they could continue to pursue those dreams in the face of adversity.

Most of all, I wish each and every child in Manatee County a safe and happy holiday season, and that they will return to our schools on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2014, refreshed and ready to learn.

“Together We Can!”

— Rick W. Mills, superintendent of Manatee County Public Schools

I would like to wish the community a very joyous holiday season!

The holidays are so special and we hope you are spending precious time with family and friends.

Due to our recent relocation, we would like to send our gratitude to the entire community for welcoming our family with open arms! We are so thrilled and thankful to be living in such a fabulous place. We also hope all the various charities in the community continue to thrive and set records!

Please, keep all the men and women in our armed forces in your prayers and thank them for all they do.

Lastly, I wish everyone prosperity, happiness and good health in 2014.

Happy New Year to all!

— Octavio Ortiz, general manager of The Mall at University Town Center

Community Haven has been very good this year. We have worked hard to help children, teens, and adults with disabilities live fuller, more productive lives through our programs and services. Demand to serve our Sarasota and Manatee counties’ neediest has increased since last Christmas, and we have a few wishes to share with you.

Our sleigh (club car) which accommodates up to 10 elves back and forth to our Haven Industries workshop has been on the blink, and we need six new batteries to replace our aging ones. Our little elves at Selby Preschool have been busy testing out toys for the Big Day and are in need the following items: sand for our sand tables; children’s art supplies (glue, paper, crayons, markers); sippy cups; children’s audio books; dress-up clothing (princess gowns, ballerina & cowboy outfits); and plastic toy boxes and plastic riding toys, scooters and playground balls.

The IT elf needs new shelving and bracing to organize all the computer equipment. Mr. Green Thumb elf could use two wheel barrows, a flattened round shovel and garden gloves.

Our Haven Creator elves — busy handcrafting, assembling and packaging at Haven Industries — are in need of art paper, acrylic paints, fiberfill and liquid shoe polish used for the leather look vases flying off our Upscale, Resale Store shelves.

The Haven Industries’ workshop DVD and VCR wore out and needs to be replaced. Last, but certainly not least, our Teen Elves at the Selby School would love board games and puzzles (around 20 pieces), construction paper, a CD player and headphones with audio books and educational computer games.

Your contribution is always 100% tax deductible and is sure to bring joy and delight to us all.

— Marla Doss, director of Community Haven for Adults and Children with Disabilities

In our recent Economic Survey, Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance members anticipate continued growth creating more jobs in 2014.

I am hopeful with my first wish that we can work together with local colleges to attract students to the area and retain graduates for our much needed workforce.

Again Florida is predicted to be the No. 1 real-estate market watched nationally; let’s show the nation our master planned green community is still attracting investors from around the world. Swift steady growth ensures residents and businesses that it’s time to relocate.

East county venues attract diverse food, beer, wine and music festivals. We host themed events through Community Activities and fundraisers for so many local non-profits and families who enjoy our facilities. Visitors come to play and wish No. 2 is that they decide to stay!

With little hope for sufficient infrastructure improvements anytime soon, we need alternatives to move athletes, diners and shoppers efficiently. Wish No. 3 is for the brilliant minds in both counties to work together to raise local dollars needed. We can accelerate political pressure for federal and state funding, but the Interchange congestion at University and I-75 is something we all need to collaborate on.

Wish No. 4 is that residents and visitors “Buy Local,” support our neighbors and small business owners who provide jobs to our resident. Some truly unique restaurants and shops are already here, and I’m excited for those moving to the area.

We are certainly a sports community with so much to do and see. Wish No. 5 is that every local business realize the opportunities and benefit from the athletes and spectators coming to our home town.

With so many LWRBA members who are physically and financially sound, perhaps my most passionate wish is that each of us do our part to share a little time and resources. By paying it forward, we all gain so much!

— Annette Gueli, Owner, 2014 Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance Board Chairwoman

Dear Readers:

On behalf of Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the members of the Manatee County community who have supported our programs throughout this past year. Whether you volunteered, donated food or made a financial contribution, you have made a difference to our neighbors in need.

Next, our wish would be to bring awareness about the “plus” programs of Meals on Wheels PLUS in Manatee County. In addition to delivering more than 750 hot fresh meals daily to seniors of every income level, we also operate the Food Bank of Manatee, Daybreak Adult Day Services, six Friendship Dining Centers, Senior Wheels Transportation and our Senior Enrichment Center at Renaissance on 9th.

In 2014, our wish is no senior or family goes hungry. We welcome and encourage people to become advocates for our mission and to promote our programs. If anyone is interested in learning more about Meals Wheels PLUS of Manatee, we invite you to come take a tour, see our operations and meet our caring staff.

We would like the community to know our board of directors and ours are dedicated to being good stewards of our donated funds, and 95 cents of every dollar received is invested into our programs. Our stewardship resulted in receiving 4 Stars, the highest rating, by Charity Navigator. In addition, we were named the 2013 Non-Profit of the Year by the Tampa Bay Business Journal (over 7 counties).
Wishing you and yours Happy Holidays and best wishes in the New Year.
Sincerely,

Maribeth Phillips, CEO of Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee

First on my holiday wish list for our local community would be that we could find a cure for all those suffering from cancer.

We have lost so many beautiful treasures of our local community as a result of this dreaded disease. Their lives were ended all too early, and they had to endure so much. My wish would be that the V Foundation for Cancer Research could raise enough funds to find a treatment or cure for all those suffering from cancer.

Also on my holiday wish list would be for everyone to embrace the spirit of the season. I would dream that all of us, young and old, would demonstrate acts of kindness to all humankind each and every day. I believe we should all learn to lend a helping hand to those in need and offer support, friendship and guidance to those we encounter whenever we are able to do so. Too many of those suffering need just one person to make a difference in his/her life... I hope that we can all be the a special someone for someone in need. There is no greater feeling than helping others.

I wish much happiness and prosperity for all the wonderful people of this community. My family has truly been blessed to live in a community with so may beautiful places to enjoy and experience each and every day. I am always amazed by the beauty of our local beaches and landscapes. I try and share the many blessing of my life with others every day. The people that live in this area are another reason why this community offers such a wonderful residential life. Personally, I can say that many local people have been so kind and generous to me and my efforts, and I am forever grateful.

My wish is for all in the community to spend the holidays with those they love and treasure each and every moment.

God Bless our community. Happy Holidays and all the very best in the New Year!!! I certainly hope your holidays are "Awesome Baby with a Capital A!"

— Dick Vitale, Lakewood Ranch