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Your Observer | All

    By
  • Observer Staff
  • January 2, 2013
Observed: 2013: A year of new beginnings

No one knows what the future holds, but as we look toward 2013, we can't help but be optimistic.

  • East County
  • Opinion
Lakewood Ranch’s Ian Harding says improvement in the housing market is one of the indicators on which he based his decision to relocate his family to the area and start a new business here.
    By
  • Pam Eubanks
  • January 2, 2013
Looking ahead: Economic Outlook

A veteran of the utilities industry, Ian Harding had a burning desire to own a business. However, what to do as a new career and when to begin was another story.

  • East County
  • News
New board Chairman Larry Bustle says Betsy Benac and Vanessa Baugh, both elected in November, have brought less bickering and political plays and more harmonious cooperation between commissioners.
    By
  • Josh Siegel
  • January 2, 2013
Looking ahead: Government

It might take a simple smile to address complex issues such as economic growth, diversifying the tax base and distributing the budget in a county starving for new revenues.

  • East County
  • News
At less than two years old, Premier Sports Campus at Lakewood Ranch is making a name for itself in the sporting industry, attracting the 2012 Nike International Friendlies and other large tournament play, since opening in mid-2011.
    By
  • Pam Eubanks
  • January 2, 2013
Looking ahead: Sports Tourism

Joe Pickett, who heads up the Braden Area Sports Commission, says he expects lacrosse to be the area's fastest-growing sport, with the area becoming a 'hub' for the sport within the next five years.

  • East County
  • Sports
    By
  • Josh Siegel
  • January 2, 2013
Looking ahead: Real Estate

Sales, prices and new listings all are up in Lakewood Ranch and the Bradenton/Sarasota area, but are there enough homes to go around?

  • East County
  • News
Interim Superintendent David Gayler and the school board heard new academic plans from Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning Bob Gagnon in a December workshop.
    By
  • Josh Siegel
  • January 2, 2013
Looking ahead: Schools

Last year's budget disaster weighs on the minds of school board members and administration as they prepare to hire a new superintendent in 2013.

  • East County
  • Schools
Photos by Mark Wemple
    By
  • Mark Gordon
  • January 2, 2013
Through the Trees

A bold couple seeks success with a new entry in an old industry: Florida amusement and recreation. It's a good thing they aren't afraid of heights.

  • East County
  • News
The school’s lobby will be its main feature, serving as a reception area, a 350-seat dining hall, a multi-purpose room and even
    By
  • Pam Eubanks
  • January 2, 2013
Sneak peek into new MTI

Manatee Technical Institute's new East County campus, with 210,000 square feet, opens Jan. 7. The school will celebrate the official grand opening Valentine's Day.

  • East County
  • News
The online coupon company Gerrid Smith co-founded, Save1, takes a percentage of the commission it makes from retail partners, like Target, and donates it to charitable groups. The charities focus on feeding children worldwide. Lori Sax.
    By
  • Mark Gordon
  • January 2, 2013
Coupon Clipper: Gerrid Smith

An ultra-crowded industry didn't scare off Gerrid Smith. Now he aims to translate bravery - and a charitable-focused business model - into success.

  • East County
  • News
    By
  • Josh Siegel
  • January 2, 2013
U.S. Air Force photographer comes home early for Christmas

Technical Sgt. Donald Allen returned from a seven-month stay in Africa to surprise his children at school.

  • East County
  • Neighbors
  • By Bob Swiatek
  • January 2, 2013
The 'tail' of Patches

Born in late November 2010 in a litter of puppies from an unknown mother and father was a little, white mixed-breed male.

  • East County
  • News
    By
  • Observer Staff
  • January 2, 2013
BUSINESS OBSERVER

WCI Communities introduces two new neighborhoods; The Founders Golf and Social Club sees record membership; RE/MAX Platinum Realty opens in Lakewood Ranch; Manatee Glens Hospital unveils redesign

  • East County
  • News
Town Manager Dave Bullock has created a new culture at Town Hall. File photo.
    By
  • Kurt Schultheis
  • January 2, 2013
Looking ahead: Bullock keeps close eye on Town Hall

Three candidates with different backgrounds will vie for seats on the Longboat Key Town Commission in March, as the town manager creates a new leadership culture at Town Hall.

  • Longboat Key
  • News
New Pass and Longboat Pass are bustling with boaters and beachgoers anxious to anchor their vessel and enjoy the sun off the shores of Longboat Key. File photo.
    By
  • Robin Hartill
  • January 2, 2013
Looking ahead: Business and tourism

The patterns of season are tough to predict, but indicators so far point to a strong season for hotels and businesses.

  • Longboat Key
  • News
A new fleet of golf carts for club members is one of several upgrades at the Longboat Key Club and Resort. Photo by Katie Hendrick.
    By
  • Kurt Schultheis
  • January 2, 2013
Looking ahead: Key Club upgrades

Longboat Key Club Islandside, Harbourside and Longboat Key Club Moorings are receiving upgrades in 2013.

  • Longboat Key
  • News
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