E A ST COUNTY
Observer Lakewood Ranch’s weekly newspaper since 1998
Candidates spotlight PAGES 15-18
YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.
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FREE THURSDAY, AUGUST 9, 2018
VOLUME 20, NO. 38
YOUR TOWN
RECREATION DISTRICT ADVANCES University Park paves way toward owning its country club, golf course. PAGE 3
Courtesy photo
She’s on board for the mission Greenbrook’s Marlene Bova (above) was cleaning out her children’s closets in March when she remembered Stillpoint Mission in Bradenton had hosted a shoe donation drive. So Bova drove to Stillpoint and made a donation. “I’ve been there ever since,” said Bova, who became a volunteer. On Aug. 3, Bova accepted a post as the mission’s vice president of the board of directors. “I’m so excited,” she said. “We’re in desperate need of food.” Bova said Stillpoint accepts all kinds of donations, except for furniture, but has the greatest need for food.
School supplies in demand Teachers try to make sure returning students are equipped. SEE PAGE 8
Amelia Hanks
Braden River Elementary teacher Audrey Quale makes sure she, and her students, have the right supplies going into the new school year.
A+E Amelia Hanks
Right at home
Lakewood Ranch’s Amy Southwick was overjoyed she didn’t have to hit the road to sell her handmade jewelry. Southwick was one of the vendors at the first Who Knew Pop-up Shop Aug. 3 at the Lakewood Ranch Town Hall. “We don’t have a storefront and I mostly do markets in the area,” Southwick said of her East County business, Boutique Rebellion. “Everything I sell here is unique.” She hopes the Pop-up Shops become a regular offering in East County.
The art of sound. INSIDE
Pam Eubanks
Curbs cause enthusiasm Accidents reduced at GreyHawk entrance. SEE PAGE 5