JUNE 21 - JUNE 27, 2024 | THREE DOLL ARS
FLOR IDA’S NE WSPAPER FOR T HE C - SUI T E
Entrepreneurs | Accidental wedding venue owner embraces new gig. PG.8 PASCO • H ILL SBOROUG H • PIN ELL AS • P OLK • M A N ATEE • SA R ASOTA • C H A R LOT TE • LEE • COLLIER
Up There Training and teaching crane operators — during a decadeslong construction boom — has proved to be a lucrative business for an enterprising family. PAGE 10
inside: DATA SNAPSHOT
Building Blocks
A trio of markets in the region, with Cape Coral-Fort Myers leading the way, have posted significant gains in construction employment. PAGE 6
DEVELOPMENT
Long Ball
The Tampa Bay Rays’ quest for a new stadium picked up a big win recently with an initial approval of the project from the St. Petersburg City Council. PAGE 7
EDUCATION
Skill Set
The School District of Lee County is making big advances in a program designed to teach eight soft skills to the region’s workforce. PAGE 9
REAL ESTATE
Land Grab
Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport CEO Rick Piccolo is appealing a federal decision to deny the airport an $11.5 million land deal it made with New College of Florida. PAGE 12
REAL ESTATE 195-acre Charlotte County site sold for $17.85 million. 14 Canadian firm acquires four Tampa area apartment complexes. 14
DON’T MISS
Bar owner serves key lessons. PAGE 3
Ethan and Bo Collier| CRANE TECH
PHOTO BY MARK WEMPLE
BIG HOT OFF THE PRESS 2023
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