E A ST COUNTY
Observer Lakewood Ranch’s weekly newspaper since 1998
Students in the groove
PAGE 20
YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.
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FREE THURSDAY, AUGUST 29, 2019
VOLUME 21, NO. 41
YOUR TOWN
Another 70/64 connector?
44th Avenue delays might bring Lena Road extension project to life. PAGE 4
Courtesy photo
Smokin’ fast Braden River High graduate Joseph Leto not only emerged from the Manatee Technical College Fire Academy as the award winner for highest academic achievement, but he also had the lowest time on the Firefighter Combat Challenge. It was only the second time a student had taken down both those awards. Leto addressed his fellow students Aug. 19 at graduation at MTC’s East Campus in Lakewood Ranch and told them, “Our future is bright — bright and hot!”
Pilot program Manatee Sheriff’s Office plans to deliver K-9 units by helicopter. SEE PAGE 8
Jay Heater
Parade donation helps VFW Retired Army Col. Gill Ruderman smiled as he talked about the $500 donation made to VFW Post 12055 on Aug. 21 by Lakewood Ranch Community Activities. “Every little bit helps,” said Ruderman, a post trustee who said donations are vital in helping Manatee County veterans. VFW Commander Graham Ellis (above) accepted the ceremonial check from Lori Ruth, the East County Observer associate publisher who also was representing the Tribute to Heroes Parade committee and Lakewood Ranch Community Activities. The donation from Lakewood Ranch Community Activities was generated from proceeds from the May 19 parade.
Pam Eubanks
Ron and his handler, deputy Jerod Wolfe, take part in a Sheriff’s Office exercise to see if the K-9 units can be delivered by helicopter.
Rain washes away profits for courses Pam Eubanks
Lakewood Ranch’s Marty Fugardi says his summer golfing has been wiped out by rain.
Steady summer rains wreak havoc on local golf courses. SEE PAGE 3
A+E
Right at home with Cuban art. INSIDE