E A ST COUNTY
Observer Lakewood Ranch’s weekly newspaper since 1998
YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.
VOLUME 18, NO. 35
Three cheers for Ally
PAGE 14
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FREE THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2016
Palm Aire takes center stage A special performance will benefit Opera for Animals. SEE PAGE 8
RANCH SURGES AHEAD IN RANKINGS
YOUR TOWN
Mid-year new home sales put Lakewood Ranch in the top five nationally. SEE PAGE 3 Courtesy photos
Oscars bound? Lakewood Ranch 13-yearold Grayson Tullio has made his big wish: to present at the 89th Oscars in February 2017. He and his family now are waiting to hear from the Make-A-Wish Foundation, which grants wishes to children with terminal illnesses. “I think I’m that kid that has what it takes,” he said in a video message to the organization. “I have skill and I know a lot about movies.” Grayson has Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Courtesy
Lakewood Ranch officials say diversification has been key to landing among the fastest-selling master-planned communities in the nation.
A+E
Nobody’s cracking up The county’s three-month plan will repair damaged sidewalks along Lakewood Ranch Boulevard. SEE PAGE 4
Search for Ralph
100 years of John D. MacDonald INSIDE
Pam Eubanks
Manatee County considers a quarter-inch lift between sidewalk slabs a tripping hazard.
Nine-year-old Greenbrook resident Ramzia Sorathia had her pet cockatiel, Fred, for two years. They played together every day and Ralph wouldn’t go to any family member but her — until about two months ago, when he escaped the family’s home. “If you could help us find our bird, I will be very grateful,” said Ramzia’s mom, Raazia. If you’ve seen Ralph, please contact Raazia at raazia_sorathia@hotmail. com or call 646-541-1992.