Merry Christmas from The Jim Soda Group!

Hello Friends!
I hope you enjoyed your Thanksgiving and have now recovered from over-eating It's now time to shift gears, and we talk to so many people that are discouraged by the news, stock market and other media that we thought it was a good time to take a moment for a good laugh (at our expense). Click on the link below, and then create one yourself and pass it along; laughter is contagious!!

http://elfyourself.jibjab.com/view/FrGWzFlyqJroFl6h2dfT

On a serious note, if you need any assistance in your home selling / buying process in the Sarasota or Lakewood Ranch area, or simply would like someone to bounce ideas off of, we are here for you. Don't hesitate to give someone on the team a call.
Enjoy the season, those around you and make sure you take time to laugh!!!

Happy Holidays!

Randy and the Gang
The Jim Soda Group
http://www.jimsoda.com/

Founding Member of NAR's Green REsource Council?

Last week I had the honor of attending the FIRST National Association of Realtors Green Designation core class. This Designation is something I am very proud of and look forward to assisting my clients and fellow colleagues with the knowledge I have gained. Being “Green” is something I work on everyday. Now I can be source of information of all "Green" related Real Estate information in the Sarasota-Manatee area. You could just feel the energy in the room of most Realtors attending….they were beaming and thrilled to be founding members of NAR's Green Resource Council. This Green Designation and program offers us the ability to operate as Ambassadors in the Real Estate community. My mission is to spread the word and be a resource for subjects including sustainability, smart growth and the simple green choices we can all make in our daily lives. If you need any assistance or have "Green" questions in the Sarasota/Bradenton area please give me a call or search my blog for links.

Real Estate Term You Should Know

MARKET PRICE - The price paid regardless of pressures, motives, or intelligence.

Price Reduction: 5762 New York Ave, Sarasota, Florida 34231

Great Duplex investment opportunity in Sarasota! Live in one unit and have unit #2 help pay the mortgage or leased both units. One unit is a 2 Bed, 2 Bath & the other unit is a 2 Bed, 1 Bath. Renters are in place at $800 each. Updated condition with newer tile, newer plumbing and electrical. Conveniently located near Clark Road and Beneva. Close to beaches, shopping and all the Sarasota area has to offer. Each unit has a laundry room and its own carport. Generously sized backyard with storage shed. New Price $259,000. Check out the Virtual Tour. Call or e-mail me if you have any questions.

Jim Soda's Birthday photos...

My friend and partner Jim Soda just celebrated a milestone birthday over the weekend. Click on the link below to view some funny photos. Enjoy.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/21939199@N08/sets/72157607600154774/

About Area Neighborhoods: Indian Beach

This beautiful and historic neighborhood is located in northern side of Sarasota along the spectacular bay front. Many of the older water front homes have been remodeled and/or knocked down to make way for luxurious mansions. These homes have some of the best water views in Sarasota because this is one of the widest parts of Sarasota Bay. Located within minutes of downtown Sarasota and Bradenton.

Real Estate Term You Should Know

ENCUMBRANCE

Any claim, interest, or right in property possessed by another that may diminish the true owner's rights or value in the estate. Examples include mortgages, easements, or restrictions of any kind. A claim, lien, or charge on property.

New Listing: 1064 N. TAMIAMI TRL # 1335, SARASOTA Florida 34236

Outdoor living in a condo? YES! Live across from the Sarasota Bay and Bayfront Park and enjoy entertaining on the expansive patio which truly creates additional living space. This unique lanai and floor plan is one to remember. Live luxuriously in this 2 bedroom, 2 bath condominium with lovely appointments like granite, upgraded cabinets, tile, stainless appliances, and a washer & dryer. Building offers concierge service, media room, fitness center, billiards, heated pool/spa, meeting room, business center and underground controlled access parking. Walk to Downtown, and the new Publix next door. Convenience, style and location! Price: $289,000. Virtual tour

Join the Sarasota Coastal Clean Up Day This Saturday!

Join the Green Realtors Alliance of Sarasota (GRAS) which is partnering with the Ocean Conservancy for the 23rd Annual Keep Sarasota County Beautiful Coastal Cleanup on Saturday, September 20, 2008. Many GRAS members and others will be strolling the local waterways, catching some rays and picking up trash to beautify our area. Volunteers are needed to help clean up Sarasota's beautiful bay front parks as part of Ocean Conservancy's International Coastal Clean Up Day. Sandy Keith, Chairman of GRAS, is spearheading the Realtor® volunteer group.

The group will gather initially at Bay Front Park, which fronts on U.S. 41 near Selby Gardens. Meet by the southern archway entrance to Bay Front Park and then the group will break into smaller groups to pick up marine trash at Bay Front Park & Marina, Bird Key Park, John Ringling Causeway Parks, and Ken Thompson Park. Please consider coming and volunteering. See you there.

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Placed Into Government Conservatorship

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, government sponsored enterprises (GSEs), were placed into a conservatorship Sunday by the U.S. Dept. of the Treasury. The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) will serve as the conservator, and the CEOs of each company were relieved of their duties. Replacing them are Herbert Allison, former Merrill Lynch vice chairman, and David Moffett, former U.S. Bancorp CFO, who will now lead Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, respectively.

MAKING SENSE OF THE STORY
· Under the conservatorship, the FHFA has the authority to take up to an 80 percent stake in the companies, and will review both GSEs’ financial condition quarterly. The federal government also may inject capital into Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, if needed. Both GSEs will be allowed to increase their mortgage funding over the next year and a half, and their stock will continue to trade, with stockholders retaining all rights in the stock’s financial worth. However, the plan does call for a 10 percent reduction per year to GSEs’ portfolios, beginning in 2010, until they have been reduced to $250 billion.

· Although the conservatorship has resulted in lower interest rates for consumers, and restored investor confidence, the Treasury and the new CEOs will change the mission and role of GSEs. Without GSEs, mortgage capital eventually will be less predictable and more expensive. This may result in adjustable-rate mortgages becoming the standard loan for home buyers, as well as higher down payment requirements, and the possible disappearance of the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage.

· Most industry professionals support a structure that maintains GSEs in their current countercyclical roles and is urging lawmakers to support continued government involvement in supporting the institutional secondary market. As a result of these concerns, Realtors and others in real estate will be asking Congress to enact legislation to ensure GSEs continue to fulfill their congressional mission of supplying an affordable and stable flow of capital for home loans.

Real Estate Term You Should Know

EARNEST MONEY
Down payment made by the purchaser of real estate as evidence of good faith. A deposit or partial payment

Fun thing to do In the Sarasota/Bradenton Area: Art Not For Sale?

Art Center Sarasota presents a unique gallery experience by exploring what happens when an artist becomes so connected to a piece that he or she refuses to give it up. The galleries will be hosting topics such as “Not For Sale: Collection of the Artist” and “Almost Too Precious Too Sell,” showing people a different view of the usually consumer driven market. Attendees will be enlightened about creating art for art’s sake and fulfilling a creative need. Art Center Sarasota, 707 N. Tamiami Trl., Sarasota, 941-365-2032.

New Listing: 8309 SAILING LOOP, LAKEWOOD RANCH FL. 34202

Breathtaking long lake view of Lake Uihlein and kayaking docks. Gated Community. This 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath home also offers upstairs bonus w/huge walk in closet, can be 5th bed. Upstairs has balcony w/that stunning lake view! Tile throughout on diagonal, formal dining, formal living, surround sound/nanny cams & built-in media center. Kitchen has lovely wood cabinets, gas range, granite and island. Huge master suite w/jetted tub. Laundry has sink and cabinets. Lots of closet space! Heated pool w/spill over spa. 3-car garage. Walking distance to LWR's Main Street. Docks allowed. Virtual Tour: http://www.visualtour.com/shownp.asp?sk=13&t=1646733 . List Price: $600,000. Call me for more information or to schedule a private showing.

A Simply Green Idea :) Tankless Hot Water Heaters

Tankless hot water heaters save energy and thus money. Water heating accounts for 20% or more of an average household’s annual energy expenditures. The yearly operating costs for conventional gas or electric storage tank water heaters average $200 or $450, respectively.
Storage tank-type water heaters raise and maintain the water temperature to the temperature setting on the tank (usually between 120° -140° F (49° -60° C). Even if no hot water is drawn from the tank (and cold water enters the tank), the heater will operate periodically to maintain the water temperature.
This is due to "standby losses": the heat conducted and radiated from the walls of the tank—and in gas-fired water heaters—through the flue pipe. These standby losses represent 10% to 20% of a household’s annual water heating costs.
Tankless units are common in Japan and Europe. They began appearing in the United States about 30 years ago. Unlike "conventional" storage tank water heaters, tankless water heaters heat water only as it is used, or on demand. A tankless hot water heater has a heating device that is activated by the flow of water when a hot water valve is opened. Once activated, the heater delivers a constant supply of hot water. The output, however, limits the rate of the heated water flow. So consider this option whether you are building or replacing an existing unit.

Real Estate Term You Should Know

RIPARIAN RIGHTS
The right of a landowner with regard to water rights such as a stream crossing that is adjoining his or her property.

New Listing: 7516 Abbey Glen, Lakewood Ranch, Florida 34202

Enter this home & be immediately captivated by its private lake & preserve view. Spectacular sunsets! This 4 bed/3bath home is just less than 3300 sq ft. Upstairs retreat w/own pavered balcony. 18 in. tile on diagonal throughout, crown molding, 42 in. wood cabinets, gas cook-top, large pantry, intercom & kitchen desk. Gathering room w/built-in media center & custom Wayne's coated ceiling adds charm & detail. Large master w/double tray ceiling & lots of closets w/lovely bath. Home has 3 air handlers. Large lanai offers salt pool/spa w/brick coping and summer kitchen & of course that view! List Price: $899,000. Virtual Tour:http://www.srqvt.com/7516abbyglenvt.html. Call me to schedule a viewing or get more details.

Citizens for Sox Announces Public Meeting

Citizens for Sox, a grassroots organization made up of 4000 residents and taxpayers of Sarasota County, Florida will hold a public meeting on Tuesday, July 29 at 6:00PM at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota Ballroom located at 1000 Boulevard of the Arts at 41 North in the center of the city of Sarasota. City Commissioner Kelly Kirschner and County Commissioner Joe Barbetta will give an update and take questions on the Boston Red Sox Spring Training Facilities relocating to Sarasota, Florida.

About Area Neighborhoods: St. Armands

Originally developed as the dream of famed circus founder and entrepreneur John Ringling, St. Armands and its famous circle of exquisite dining and shopping venues represents the epitome of island living in Sarasota. Actually located on famous Lido Key, St. Armands offers everything one could wish for - pristine beaches, elegant shops, boutiques and art galleries, cosmopolitan restaurants and a wide array of residential lifestyle offerings. Drink in dramatic city skyline views from your bay front estate or select a home on a navigable canal, just minutes from the open waters of the Gulf. Stroll to the circle for a sumptuous meal, then to the beach for a truly remarkable sunset experience.

Did You Know?

About 40 percent of all U.S. land is owned by a federal or state government entity. Ninety-five percent of Alaska's 365,039 square miles is government owned. Only 1.5 percent of Rhode Island's 668.8 square miles is owned by federal or state entities.

New Listing: 1723 7th Street,SARASOTA, Florida 34236

Brand new Bungalow home built w/charm & highest "Green Building" specs including recycled glass counters, reclaimed heart pine flooring, ventless natural gas fireplace, Bosch Evolution Appl., glass door knobs, metal roof, tankless H2O heater, water saving irrigation and custom finishes that capitalize on our city's first class urban design & architecture. Surrender to the covered porches & white picket fence in this timeless retreat packaged perfectly with quality and craftsmanship all being hurricane resistant. 'The Tatum" named after Sarasota pioneer Harvey Tatum. Live where you work.

Did You Know?

Sears and Robuck delivered and built more than 75,000 homes in the United States from 1908 to 1940. Sears sold several styles of homes that were available for purchase from their general merchandise catalog. The homes arrived on rail cars containing more than 30,000 pieces and were assembled by local carpenters and skilled labor. Prices for the homes ranged from $600 to $6000.

About Area Neighborhoods: Longboat Key

This 11-mile island, Longboat key, is located half in Manatee and Sarasota Counties, which is the Sarasota's northernmost Barrier Island. Connected to Anna Maria Island by bridge to the north and Lido Key to the south, this is home to world-class golf and tennis resorts. Longboat Key is a wonderland of manicured fairways and opulent high-rise condominiums lining the Gulf of Mexico.

Prudential listings go to Cyberhomes, Google Base, Oodle

Citing their popularity with consumers, Prudential Real Estate Affiliates Inc. said it's begun sending listings to Cyberhomes, AOL.com, Google Base and Oodle, and will purchase display and banner ads on Cyberhomes and Oodle. Prudential Real Estate, which claims more than 2,100 franchise offices and 64,000 sales professionals, said it kicked off the new partnerships today by sending 140,000 for-sale property listings to the sites. Prudential said listings will appear on AOL.com through Cyberhomes, which is providing value range estimates and property profiles at Prudential's real estate search page. Prudential will continue sending listings to FrontDoor.com, Propsmart.com, Trulia.com, Yahoo! Real Estate and Zillow.com.

Welcome Mary Beth Hudson and Gregory Hudson

Prudential Palms Realty is pleased to announce that Mary Beth Hudson and Gregory Hudson, former owners of Avalar Real Estate, have recently affiliated with Prudential Palms Realty's downtown office, along with 12 former Avalar sales associates. Mary Beth Hudson will become the new manager of the Downtown office. Gregory Hudson will be a Prudential Palms Fine Homes Specialist, continuing as a top-producing sales associate. The Hudsons made the move to Prudential Palms in order to take advantage of the advanced technology and marketing resources available through the Prudential brand.
"We are so pleased to be able to join Prudential Palms, continuing our real estate careers with such a high quality Sarasota company," Mary Beth Hudson remarked. "Both Greg and I, as well as our former Avalar sales associates, realize the strength a brand such as Prudential brings. Their marketing programs and international connections, as well as their technological support and infrastructure, is unsurpassed by any company that we have been affiliated with in our 12 years in the real estate business. We are very excited about all the opportunities this affiliation brings."

Our neighbors; the Atlantic Tarpon

The Atlantic tarpon (Tarpon atlanticus or Megalops atlanticus) is found close to shore in warm parts of the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico, and sometimes in rivers. It habitually breaks the water's surface and gulps air. It grows to 6 ft (1.8 m) and 100 lb (45 kg) or larger. Strength, stamina, and fighting ability, make the tarpon one of Southwest Florida's premier game fish.

Did You Know?

Since 2004, home equity borrowing in America has risen 278%, according to a study by 360FinancialLiteracy.org . Nearly $719 billion of home equity credit is on balance in America, which now exceeds the total balance on credit cards. A home equity loan is paid off over time. A home equity line of credit is repaid like credit card debt.

Fun thing to do In the Sarasota/Bradenton Area

Tropical Fourth of July Celebration, July 4, 6—10pm

Join in the fun at Selby Gardens and pay tribute to America. Festivities include music, a costume contest for the most patriotic attire and lawn games. Traditional American cookout food will be sold for an additional charge, and beer, wine and soda will also be available. The evening of celebration will culminate in a fantastic display of fireworks over Sarasota Bay. Lawn chairs and blankets are encouraged, however coolers are not allowed. Members $15, non—members $18 and children under 12 admitted free. Tickets may be purchased online at http://www.selby.org/ or at Selby Gardens Welcome Center. Selby Botanical Gardens, 811 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota, 941-366-5731.

Real Estate Term You Should Know

FORECLOSURE

A legal proceeding to enforce a lien on such as a mortgage or deed of trust. The process by which secured property is seized and sold to satisfy a debt. A mortgage or involuntary lien must be sold by a court-ordered sale; a sale under a deed of trust may be either by court action or through a private trustee's sale.

About Area Neighborhoods: Bird Key

Nestled between the sparkling Sarasota shoreline and Lido Key is Bird Key, a private, gated enclave of 510 homes. A boater's paradise, Bird Key boasts deep-water canals and a private yacht club. Bird Key is connected to the mainland by the John Ringling Causeway for convenient access to Downtown Sarasota, yet living here feels like being a world away. Here you will find palatial beachfront estates and charming waterfront and off-water homes - but no high-rise condominiums. Bird Key captures the pristine feel of Florida days of old, surrounded by the glistening waters of Sarasota Bay.

New Listing: 15106 SUNDIAL Place, Lakewood Ranch, Florida 34202

Lee Wetherington home offering 4 bedrooms with own private baths+pool bath. Amazing kitchen finishes including 42" cabinetry, granite, center island & cook top. Stepped ceilings, crown moldings & tile throughout. Den w/view. Spacious upstairs media room perfect for movie night. Master w/sitting area, vanity, sunk in tub & glass block shower. Warm colors & gorgeous lighting package accompany this newer home. Enjoy peaceful Florida evenings by your pool/spa overlooking lake & preserve view. Full summer kitchen add convenience & style. Lovely family home on a very private lot. MLS#: 385571 Price$778,000

Virtual Tour: http://www.srqvm2.com/15106sundial/slide.html

Did You Know?

Pre-wired cable/satellite TV and home security systems are the most important new home technologies, according to a recent Internet Home Alliance survey of new homebuyers. Other desired new home technologies include structured wiring, multi-zone HVAC, air purification systems, wireless networks, energy management systems, and home lighting control systems.

About Area Neighborhoods: Braden Woods

Large, wooded home sites and the natural beauty of tall native pines come together in Braden Woods, located east of Interstate 75 in Manatee County is tucked into a country setting reminiscent of Florida's past. Residents here love the private setting, with a homeowner's association that truly values the preservation of this rare lifestyle. Perfect for families and near all of the conveniences of the city, Braden Woods brings a little bit of country to Sarasota's cosmopolitan ambiance.

Real Estate Term You Should Know

REALTOR

A real estate broker holding active membership in a real estate board affiliated with the National Association of Realtors.

Our neighbors; the Manatees

Manatees are large, gray aquatic mammals with bodies that taper to a flat, paddle-shaped tail. They have two forelimbs, called flippers, with three to four nails. Their head and face are wrinkled with whiskers on the snout. The manatee's closest land relatives are the elephant and the hyrax, a small, gopher-sized mammal. Manatees are believed to have evolved from a wading, plant-eating animal. The West Indian manatee is related to the West African manatee, the Amazonian manatee, the dugong, and to the Steller's sea cow, which was hunted to extinction in 1768. The average adult manatee is about three meters (9.8 feet) long and weighs between 362-544 kilograms (800-1,200 pounds).

Manatees can be found in shallow, slow-moving rivers, estuaries, saltwater bays, canals and coastal areas. Manatees are a migratory species. Within the United States, West Indian manatees are concentrated in Florida in the winter, but they can be found in summer months as far west as Texas and as far north as Virginia. However, these sightings are rare. Summer sightings in Alabama, Georgia and South Carolina are common. West Indian manatees can also be found in the coastal and inland waterways of Central America and along the northern coast of South America, although distribution in these areas may be spotty.

Manatees are gentle and slow-moving. Most of their time is spent eating, resting, and in travel. Manatees are completely herbivorous. They eat aquatic plants and can consume 10-15% of their body weight daily in vegetation. They graze for food along water bottoms and on the surface. They may rest submerged at the bottom or just below the surface, coming up to breathe on the average of every three to five minutes. When manatees are using a great deal of energy, they may surface to breathe as often as every 30 seconds. When resting, manatees have been known to stay submerged for up to 20 minutes.

Featured Property of the week: 611 St Judes Drive, Sarasota Florida 34228

Longboat Key Hideaway-$875,000

This home is built to hurricane standards top to bottom including all concrete construction, metal roof, and impact windows. ELEVATOR from Garage level to 3rd Flr. Master suite. Interior upgrades include Granite Counters, Wood Cabinets, Crown molding and Wood floors. Private pool area for entertaining and 4 car garage. Deeded private beach access and the conveniences of close shops, equals a wonderful Key location. Home completed in Feb. 2007. Seller will consider lease option or lease purchase with lender approval. Short Sale with Lender approval. Short Sale addenedum. Call me if you have any questions or would like a showing.

Virtual Tour: http://www.visualtour.com/shownp.asp?sk=13&t=1316645

LAKEWOOD RANCH SALES - They look good

During the first five months of 2008, average sales prices in Lakewood Ranch increased by 4.5 percent, and median sales prices held almost steady over the same period last year. The average selling price of residential homes, as reported through the Sarasota Multiple Listing Service, rose from $582,975 in 2007 to $608,585 in 2008 in Lakewood Ranch. Median selling prices held almost steady at $432,500 in 2007 compared with $442,500 in 2008. The standing inventory of listed single-family homes is 363, compared with 424 at the end of 2007.

Did You Know?

Habitat for Humanity International is a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian housing ministry. Since its founding in 1976 by Millard and Linda Fuller, Habitat for Humanity International has built or rehabilitated more than 150,000 houses for families in need, becoming a world leader in addressing the issues of poverty and housing.

Red Sox fan spotted on Lido Beach?

CITIZENS FOR SOX PUBLIC MEETING NOW SCHEDULED

Thursday, June 12 7:00 p.m.
Lido Beach Resort
Ben Franklin Dr. Lido Beach
8th Floor Meeting Room
You can now view meeting schedules on http://www.blogger.com/www.citizensforsox.com homepage.
If you have any questions, please contact Elsie Souza, Coordinator at info@citizensforsox.com

Did You Know?

An adjustable rate mortgage, or ARM, was first introduced in the state of Wisconsin in the late 1940s. The Wisconsin state legislature permitted lenders to adjust their loan rates charged to borrowers in order to grant relief to savings and loan institutions that held large numbers of fixed-rate loans.

Real Estate Term You Should Know

MARKETABLE TITLE

Title free and clear of reasonable objections and doubts; also called merchantable title.

Summer Programs 2008

MOMMY AND ME - Ocean Adventurers(Ages 2 - 5)Explore Sarasota Bay and its critters through hands-on activities, field experiences and visits to Mote Aquarium.You and your child will travel through a mangrove bay walk and wade through the bay with dip nets to discover what lives in the grass flats and under the sand in Sarasota Bay.Each camper must be accompanied by an adult. Session Dates: (Two Unique Sessions)Session 1: June 10-12, June 17-19, June 24-26, July 1-3, July 8-10Session 2: July 15-17, July 22-24, July 29-31, Aug. 5-7, Aug. 12-14 Number of Student Campers: 15 per session

AQUAKIDS - Munchers, Crunchers, Slurpers & Chirpers(Students Entering Grades 1 - 4)What do sea turtles eat? Why don't the sharks feed on the other fish in their habitat at Mote? Through hands-on experiments, games and crafts we'll discover who eats who and what would happen if there were no more fish in the sea. Campers will snorkel, visit Mote Aquarium and take a boat trip in Sarasota Bay. Swimming skills are required.**After Camp Care Available Session Dates:June 9-13 (FULL), June 16-20 (FULL), June 23-27 (FULL), June 30-July 4 (FULL), July 7-11 (FULL), July 14-18 (FULL), July 21-25 (FULL), July 28-Aug. 1 (FULL), Aug. 4-8 (FULL), Aug. 11-15 (FULL) Number of Campers: 24 per session*Are your desired summer camp dates full? Weekend day camps are still open! Check out our year-round Mote Island Quest program.

MOTE EXPLORERS - Marine Extremes(Students Entering Grades 5 - 8)Ever wondered how you measure up against sea creatures?From the fastest fish to the deepest-diving whale, we'll explore the extreme adaptations of sea creatures. Come ready to experience Marine Extremes through hands-on activities, snorkeling, visits to Mote Aquarium and a boat trip through Sarasota Bay. Swimming skills are required.**After Camp Care Available Session Dates:June 9-13, June 16-20, June 23-27, June 30-July 4, July 7-11, July 14-18, July 21-25, July 28-Aug. 1, Aug. 4-8, Aug. 11-15Number of Campers: 24 per session

Digi-Know How?- (Students Entering Grades 5 - 8)Become an undersea super star! Whether behind the camera or in front of the lights, you'll create amazing digital media projects with our easy-to-use computer application sand equipment. Make a movie about sharks, a digital scrapbook on manatees or record ocean science music, then showcase your high-tech masterpiece during an end-of the-week virtual presentation. No experience required. All Digital equipment provided. Just bring your imagination!Concurrent registration in the Marine Extremes program is strongly recommended, but not required.Session Dates:July 7-11 (FULL), July 14-18 (FULL)Number of Campers: 20 per session

Discovering the Florida Keys - (Students Entering Grades 7 - 8)Come enjoy a wide spectrum of marine science activities while living at Mote's Tropical Research Laboratory on Summerland Key, Fla. In this incredible field-based course, participants will snorkel at Looe Key Reef, kayak through mangrove tunnels,explore Bahia Honda State Park, and visit Marathon's Turtle Hospital. This year's program is highlighted by an all-day excursion to Dry Tortuga's National Park. Mote provides round-trip ground transportation from Sarasota, field trip transportation in the Keys, lodging and food. Program costs include use of snorkel gear. Swimming skills are required.Session Dates:June 16-20 (FULL), July 7-11 (FULL), July 21-25 (FULL)Number of Campers: 13 per session

MOTE JUNIOR SCIENTISTS - PADI SCUBA Diving Training Open Water Level (Students Entering Grades 9 - 12)Want to experience breathing underwater? Join Mote this summer to learn the sport of SCUBA diving. The training consists of three components: class knowledge development,confined water dives and open water dives. Upon successful completion of this class, participants will be certified as Open Water Divers through the Professional Association of Dive Instructors (PADI). If you would like to practice your new skills, join us the following week for Marine Ecology of the Florida Keys. Swimming skills are required.Session Dates:June 16-20, July 7-11Number of Campers: 10 per session Marine Ecology of the Florida Keys(Students Entering Grades 9 – 12)Come experience the marine wonders of the Florida Keys!Using Mote’s Tropical Research Laboratory in Summerland Key, Fla., as a base camp, participants will SCUBA (if certified)or snorkel to explore Looe Key, Sombrero Reef and John Pennekamp State Park. Their brief out-of-water interlude swill include tide pool walks, a fishing trip, kayaking and a visit to the Dolphin Research Center. Mote provides round-trip ground transportation from Sarasota, field trip transportation in the Keys, lodging and food. Program costs include use of snorkel and SCUBA gear. Swimming skills are required.Session Dates:June 23-27, July 14-18 (FULL) Number of Campers: 13 per session

TEACHERS Collecting Critters - Interested in collecting critters for your classroom? Earn your Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Collection Certificate during this teacher workshop. Mote educators will explain the latest information on state regulations regarding species collection, collecting processes and fishing gear. An optional field sampling training will conclude the experience.Please come prepared for water work.Workshop Dates:June 26, Aug. 7Number of Teachers: 30 per workshop

REEF Fish ID Training - In collaboration with the Reef Environmental Education Foundation (REEF), Mote will be offering a two-hour session to introduce recreational divers and snorkelers to the enjoyable and educational activity of fish watching. Participants will learn the basics of fish shape and anatomy and how to use these traits for identification. Upon completion of the program, participants will be certified REEF surveyors able to contribute to the world of “citizen science”.Workshop Dates:July 31Number of Teachers: 30 per workshop.

For more information or to participate please Contact - Mote Marine Laboratory 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, Florida 34236 - (941) 388-4441 - (800) 691-MOTE

Featured Property of the week: 9113 STONE HARBOUR Loop, Bradenton Florida 34212

HERITAGE HARBOUR is a Fabulous Golf Course Community with Beautiful Lake Views and amenities. Relax , Play & Enjoy life in a Magnificent Area. This Popular Community offers Golf, Swimming, Tennis, Volley Ball and a State of the Art Fitness Center with a Gorgeous Club House to Entertain all your guests. This home has 3 beds. Office plus 2 full baths. Designer Tile, Washer, Dryer, light fixtures and furniture are included in this great price. Watch the Golfer's putt on the green in your own private screened in Lanai overlooking a beautiful lake. This is a must see home. Seller offers to purchase a Golf Membership for the buyer. Call me if you have any questions or would like a private showing.

Virtual Tour: http://www.visualtour.com/shownp.asp?sk=13&t=1535276

Did you Know?

Thomas Jefferson is reported to be the first to install thermal insulation during home construction for the specific purpose of better heating and cooling. Jefferson used a cellulose type of insulation comprised of wood, paper, and plant-base in his large Monticello estate built more than 200 years ago.

Real Estate Term You Should Know

MARKET VALUE

The highest price in terms of money which a property will bring on the open market and under all conditions required for a fair sale, i.e., the buyer and seller acting prudently, knowledgeably and neither affected by undue pressures.

Featured Property of the week: 6911 Belmont Court, Lakewood Ranch, Florida 34202

Stunning John Cannon Allora VIII 4 BR/4BA Model Home with exquisite details. Custom porcelain floor design throughout. Office w/full wall built-ins. Huge bonus room w/raised area, perfect for weekend card games. Formal dining and living w/large wet bar. Spacious combo family room, w/fireplace & basket weave ceiling. Kitchen is dynamite w/granite & ctr island. Master features gigantic spa tub. Every room has unique custom features. You will take your time in this home to appreciate each detail. 550 sqft pavered lanai w/summer kitchen, lake view and plenty of luxurious living space. Call Randy if you have any questions or would like a private showing (941) 586-9635.

Virtual Tour: http://www.vr24.net/srq.php?mls=318914

Our neighbors; the Sandhill Cranes

Sandhill Cranes
Florida sandhill cranes are long-legged, long-necked, gray, heron-like birds with a patch of bald, red skin on top of their heads. Sandhill cranes fly with their necks outstretched with powerful, rhythmic wing beats. Florida's sandhill cranes are a threatened species that are found in inland shallow freshwater marshes, prairies, pastures and farmlands. Sometimes they can be seen on lawns throughout Florida.

They are sensitive birds that do not adjust well to changed environments and high human populations. Sandhill cranes are usually seen in small family groups or pairs. However, during the winter, Florida's sandhill crane population increases as cranes from northern states spend the winter in Florida. Sandhill cranes are omnivorous, meaning they eat a variety of plant and animal matter. Some of their favorite meal items include seeds, plant tubers, grains, berries, insects, earthworms, mice, snakes, lizards, frogs and crayfish. Unlike other wading birds, such as herons, sandhill cranes do not "fish."

The voice of the sandhill crane is one of the most distinctive bird sounds in Florida. This "call of the wild" has been described as a bugling or trumpeting sound, and can be heard for several miles. Florida sandhill cranes stay with the same mate for several years and young sandhills stay with their parents until they are about 10 months old. Like their endangered relatives the whooping cranes, sandhills live to be older than most birds. In fact, some sandhill cranes live up to 20 years.

Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch Polo?

Did you know Lakewood Ranch is home to the Sarasota Polo Club where the best players from around the globe compete on nine of the finest polo fields in the world? Come experience the thrill of watching the “fastest game on four feet” Sundays from December through April. Become part of the pageantry and excitement of the oldest organized sport in the world!
The Sarasota Polo Club's 130 acres of manicured fields, clubhouse and open air pavilion are also available for both indoor or tented sporting events, business meetings, weddings, parties and other special occasions.
For more information, visit www.sarasotapolo.com or call (941) 907-0000.

Real Estate Term You Should Know

CAPITAL GAIN

The gain recognized for federal (IRS) and state income tax purposes when a taxpayer disposes of a capital asset.

Fun thing to do In the Sarasota/Bradenton Area

Cocktails at the Ca d’Zan
Enjoy lavish cocktails and mingling the way John and Mable would have wanted, with gorgeous views of the couple’s Gothic Venetian estate and the bay’s stunning sunset. Terrace entertainment provided. Every third Thursday from 6-9pm . Limited seating available so arrive early.

Admission is $5.

Parking is free.

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
5401 Bay Shore Rd.
Sarasota, 941-359-5700.

New Listing: 7720 Latrobe Ct. Lakewood Ranch, FLorida 34202

Completely REMODELED & FURNISHED home in the gated LWR Country Club. This 3BD/2BA Great Room plan home offers pocket sliders to a Salt-Chlor. pool with a serene Lake View. 18" porcelain tiles diag. thru-out, 5" wood floors in beds, satin designer paint pallet, custom closets, built-ins. Exquisite chef's kitchen with Hazlenut Burnished cabinetry, stainless Pro-Style appliances. Bianco Antico Granite and a 6' island create this dream kitchen. Gorgeous lighting package, 12'-14' ceilings w/crown molding & plantation shutters. Side entry garage, paved drive and tile roof on a Cul-de-Sac lot!

Virtual Tour: http://www.srqvt.com/7720latrobevt.html