Neighbors | East County | Your Observer

East County | Neighbors

Lesley Dwyer
September 12, 2024

LWR Medical Center maintains small-town feel, offers advanced care

The Lakewood Ranch Medical Center opened 10 years after Schroeder-Manatee Ranch started building Lakewood Ranch.

East County
Neighbors

Lesley Dwyer
September 12, 2024

SMR ignited trust for fire district growth

In 1994, there was only one fire station. Now, East Manatee Fire Rescue has 10 stations and a training tower.

East County
Neighbors

Liz Ramos
September 12, 2024

Community Activities makes connections by focusing on smaller gatherings

Quality and intentional connections are key to the nonprofit's successful growth.

East County
Neighbors

Liz Ramos
September 12, 2024

The Out-of-Door Academy expands with Lakewood Ranch

From dirt roads to school expansion, ODA's "crazy" idea to open its upper school in Lakewood Ranch continues to pay off 28 years later.

East County
Neighbors

Jay Heater
September 12, 2024

Nonprofits play key role in Lakewood Ranch's growth

A small-town feel prompts newcomers to immerse themselves in the community.

East County
Neighbors

Liz Ramos
September 11, 2024

LWR-area communities unite to raise money for breast cancer research

Residents in University Park, Lake Club, Rosedale and others strive to raise thousands for cancer research.

East County
Neighbors

Lesley Dwyer
September 5, 2024

Bank of America celebrates Sarasota-Manatee nonprofits

The bank awarded over $450,000 in grants in the past year.

East County
Neighbors

By Kirkplan Kitchen & Bath
September 5, 2024

Helping the Community: Kirkplan Kitchen & Bath Crafts amongst the floods

Hard times reveal the true strength of a community, reminding us that we need to lean on each other and work together to restore the place we call home.

East County
Neighbors

Lakewood Ranch businessman uses AI to capture lasting memories

Through the Leaves Legacy Project, Mike O'Donnell preserves and produces life stories that includes a virtual biographer.

East County
Business

Liz Ramos
September 4, 2024

12-year-old's aneurysm leaves her family living in a 'nightmare'

Grace Burnett remains in intensive care since Aug. 4, and her parents hope to spread awareness about brain aneurysms.

East County
Neighbors

Lesley Dwyer
September 4, 2024

Myakka Elephant Ranch puts guests to work, not elephants

With three elephants retired from the entertainment industry living on the compound, Myakka Elephant Ranch provides engaging experience while promoting elephant conservation.