I fully endorse all of the great words in support of the March 7 "Celebration of Life" Fashion Show for the benefit of the American Cancer Society. Organizers at Heartland Realtors Association produced a well choreographed and beautiful fashion show with artist skill and professional integrity. The models enthusiastically gave of their time under the skillful eyes and tutorage of Sherrie Abraham and Dayna Carlton, both of whom maintained a laser focus, instilled confidence and guided the models to perfection. Dayna used a velvet-glove approach as light and gentle as a feather in teaching the model to walk, pose and turn gracefully. The models are amazing and beautiful women. Each cancer survivor has a compelling story of her ordeal with cancer, yet each possesses a resilient inner strength, a zest for life, boundless energy, and an optimistic attitude — the combination of which is infectious far beyond the individual woman. Not only were they models on the runway at Chateau Elan inside the Four Points Hotel, but they are models of how to deal with, overcome and beat a crisis in everyday life. I congratulate all of the models for a job well done! ...more

March 15, 2009

On March 7, I was a model as a cancer survivor in the Celebration of Life Fashion Show. This was sponsored by the Heartland Realtors Association to benefit the American Cancer Society. It was one of the most enriching experiences I've ever had. I formed friendships that will last the rest of my life. I watched the ladies that worked with us, teaching, prompting and encouraging us pour their hearts into making the show a success. I received e-mail and phone call reminders from a wonderful lady who is dealing with stage 4 cancer of a loved one, yet she was faithful in making contact with us. Thank you, Jessica. There is no way to mention all who helped put this show together. Just to name a few, thank you to Holly from Allure Salon for the make up tips, to her sister who came from South Florida to help, and to Chastini who freshened everyone's lipstick. Thanks to the Bradenton Beauty and Barber School for the manicures and pedicures provided by their students. Marlene, thanks for being there to make sure the music was cued at the right time during practices. Thanks also to Impressive Pix Photography for donating their time during practice and the show. Lastly thanks to Libby for her dedication to helping us with the choice of clothing, to Dayna, our drill instructor, who was not satisfied with anything less than perfection, and to Sherrie Abraham for everything. ...more

March 14, 2009

The Florida Highway Patrol initially reported Juan P. Sanchez Jr. died after a crash Sunday morning when another driver violated the right-of-way. ...more

December 12, 2008

Juan P. Sanchez Jr. was headed home, at the wheel of the car he loved, a recent gift from his parents, when struck from behind by another vehicle. ...more

December 8, 2008

TOWN 'N COUNTRY - Joe Silvestro remembers the days when people would take their children to the same barber they frequented and their father frequented. ...more

October 1, 2007