This week in history 7.9.15

July 11, 1996

In 1996 the Olympic Torch Relay arrived in Sarasota just in time for the Fourth of July celebrations. On the 220th anniversary of the independence of the United States, residents had a chance to participate in the relay that marked the 100th anniversary of the Olympics. More than 50,000 people waited along the route from U.S. 41 to Main Street to watch history unfold. Among the participants for the race was Harrison Glancy; at the time, he was the oldest living Olympic gold medalist. 
“It was quite an honor,” Glancy said. “At 92, running with a torch was a bit much, but I did it!”

July 6, 1989

The landmark lighthouse on Osprey Avenue was in need of some tending. The Historic Preservation Board issued a letter urging then owner Donald McKeon to make the necessary repairs and maintenance to the structure and the boat-shaped home on the property. The letter was an attempt to avoid a “demolition by neglect” investigation. Both homes still stand today. 

July 9, 1981

In a former Man-on-the-street style column titled "Key Queries" the Pelican Press asked residents about the 1981 Major League Baseball strike. Resident Betsy Olsen answered "I'm sorry I don't know more particulars. My husband misses baseball on television--he really does." Another, Miller Winston said "If it were a footbal strike I'd care--but baseball--I could care less." Some more faithful baseball fans were anxiously waiting for the strike to end like Larry McIver, a baseball player for the Sarasota Astros, the minor league club for the Houston Astros. "I hope they can solve it pretty soon. The fans are missing the games, the players are missing the games, it's just hurting baseball all around."