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East County

Tony Dertouzos and his wife, Amity Hoffman, say the baggage tag inside this ornament originally looked like a cigarette because it was rolled so tightly to fit inside. Over time, it has expanded. Photo by Pam Eubanks.
    By
  • Pam Eubanks
  • December 20, 2017
Christmas memories hang around the holidays

Holiday ornaments stir emotion, memories in greater Lakewood Ranch area.

  • East County
  • Neighbors
Jim, Drew, Brooklyn and Alissa Putnam were blessed by a Charleston, S.C., Target employee's kindness in 2011.
    By
  • Pam Eubanks
  • December 20, 2017
East County residents share their holiday mishaps and memories

The Christmas holidays are filled with memories — good and quirky. Here are a few of both.

  • East County
  • Neighbors
Homes in the community will have a West Indies style. (Courtesy rendering).
    By
  • Pam Eubanks
  • December 20, 2017
Toll Brothers to build in Lakewood Ranch

The luxury builder plans to construct 450 West Indies-inspired homes.

  • East County
  • Real Estate
    By
  • Pam Eubanks
  • December 20, 2017
East County homes let their lights shine

Don't blink when it comes to looking for these holiday light displays.

  • East County
  • Neighbors
Santa said he has a magic key that allows him to get through front doors if the home has no chimney.
    By
  • Pam Eubanks
  • December 20, 2017
Ho(w) much, Ho(w) many, Ho(w) long?

Students filled Santa's bag with questions. As always, St. Nick delivered.

  • East County
  • Neighbors
Access the the Starbucks on State Road 70, just west of I-75, was blocked by tape and a patrol car.
    By
  • Pam Eubanks
  • December 20, 2017
Two Starbucks locations burglarized in Manatee County

Both stores suffered similar types of damages, officials said.

  • East County
  • News
The new East County middle school will have "indoor circulation," meaning students will not have to go outside when switching classes.
    By
  • Pam Eubanks
  • December 20, 2017
New Manatee County school will offer temporary relief

East County parents thankful overcrowding will ease in the short run for families living in Lakewood Ranch.

  • East County
  • News
Todd Mathes, Benderson Development's director of development, said Benderson hopes to construct a stand-alone building for an unnamed retailer in The Shoppes at UTC. It would go between Nordstrom Rack and the Hampton Inn & Suites.
    By
  • Pam Eubanks
  • December 20, 2017
UTC continues expansion with more large-scale projects

Benderson Development asks Manatee County to approve changes to Cooper Creek DRI.

  • East County
  • News
O'Mariah Gordon absorbs contact after driving to the hoop for a shot attempt. The 5-foot-4 Gordon has no qualms about playing physical.
    By
  • Ryan Kohn
  • December 20, 2017
Braden River freshman point guard getting rave reviews

The 5-foot-4 point guard is ranked highly by multiple scouting services.

  • East County
  • Sports
Lakewood Ranch High orienteers Ethan Camparo and Kora Turner have what it takes to make it through the woods.
    By
  • Ryan Kohn
  • December 20, 2017
Orienteering can spin your emotional compass

Prose and Kohn: Ryan Kohn.

  • East County
  • Sports
Faith Schyck.
    By
  • Ryan Kohn
  • December 20, 2017
East County Athlete of the Week: Faith Schyck

The Lakewood Ranch girls soccer senior talks golden goals and inspirational quotes.

  • East County
  • Sports
India Searls. File photo.
    By
  • Ryan Kohn
  • December 20, 2017
East County High 5 Moments: 12.20.17

East County High 5 Moments: 12.20.17

  • East County
  • Sports
School Choice sessions start Jan. 8.
    By
  • Pam Eubanks
  • December 19, 2017
Manatee schools announce open enrollment requirements

The first wave of open choice enrollment starts Jan. 8.

  • East County
  • Schools
Police say this is the man who stole three rings from a UTC jewelry store.
    By
  • Eric Garwood
  • December 14, 2017
UTC thief runs off with three diamond rings

Investigators say man was looking at rings inside the store when he grabbed them and dashed away.

  • Sarasota
  • News
Ina Gross was found dead in the garage of her Lakewood Ranch home in January 2012. (File photo.)
    By
  • Pam Eubanks
  • December 14, 2017
Suspect arrested for 2012 Lakewood Ranch homicide

Ina Gross' alleged killer will be extradited to the United States to face murder charges.

  • East County
  • News
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Latest in East County

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Letters to Santa carry Christmas wishes and love
  • December 21, 2025
Letters to Santa carry Christmas wishes and love
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Santa greets visitors from the window of 9605 Governor's Club Place in The River Club.
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The Family Church caroling crew from left to right is Melody Johnson, Laurie Houston, Nancy Pilato, Pastor Phil Derstine and Terrial Robinson.
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Charlie Shachat, a co-founder of the Foolishly Festive Christmas Parade, decided to be part of the show for the "Jaws" 50th anniversary.
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