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Articles
Rowing facility realizing its dream
By HALLE STOCKTON
Published: Thursday, October 15, 2009 at 1:00 a.m. Sarasota Herald Tribune
LAKEWOOD RANCH - For years, a 400-acre lake just west of Interstate 75 south of University Parkway was little more than a huge drainage pond, but soon, the expansive lake and its surrounding grounds will be thrust into the international spotlight as the next top destination for the world's rowing superstars.
"This is not just a vision; it's happening," said Paul Blackketter, a Benderson Development project manager. "We plan to make this the best rowing course in the Western Hemisphere."
That notion and the unveiling of the concept plan at a Wednesday meeting of the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance created a buzz among business leaders anxiously awaiting economic recovery.
Benderson Park, just east of Honore Avenue between 17th Street and University Parkway, is already attracting large competitions.
Three statewide and regional regattas, with an expected attendance of more than 5,000 each, have committed to use the 1,800-meter lake next April and May.
The park's debut regatta last April attracted more than 10,000 people and generated about $1.76 million in estimated financial impact.
Once the lake is extended to 2,000 meters -- the international standard -- there are no limits to the number and type of competitions that can be hosted there year-round, Blackketter said.
Currently, the lake can only support high school and recreational competitions and training.
It will be one of nine international rowing courses in the United States, most of which are in remote locations far from hotels, restaurants and airports, he said.
Sarasota Scullers Coach Dragos "Alex" Alexandru -- the former Romanian Olympic rower who recognized the lake's potential six years ago -- said he has talked to multiple national teams from countries like Ireland, Romania and Canada who want to train at Benderson Park in the future.
The course is projected to be complete for international competition in 2011. Funding for the extension of Cattlemen Road, which makes the course expansion possible, recently became available after 18 months of delays.
Overall park construction of trails, parking, boat ramps, wildlife observation decks and more will begin next summer.
The park will also feature multiple boathouses, but the construction timeline depends on funding. They have not been designed, but planners are using inspiration from boathouses in Camden County, N.J., to Oklahoma City.
Mike Tullio, a Business Alliance board member, said the park will be "a winner" for the businesses in and around Lakewood Ranch.
"Recovery is just around the corner," said Tullio, a managing partner of Blue Skye Lending. "And things like this will definitely speed it up."
Bradenton based chain of natural foods stores expand to Lakewood Ranch
Lakewood Ranch, FL………………October 5th, 2009
Good Earth Natural Foods, a locally owned independent health food store chain reports they have opened a store in Lakewood Ranch’s Main Street. Formerly occupied by Morton’s Gourmet Market the 12,700 square foot store is prominently located at the start of Lakewood Main Street’s shopping experience.
Good Earth in Lakewood Ranch specializes in full service natural foods shopping experience. This includes complete nutritional supplement lines of vitamins, herbs, sports nutrition and specialty supplements, organic produce, natural food groceries, frozen and refrigerated foods, bulk foods and natural body care plus cosmetics. Good Earth has also developed a full food service café and deli featuring the healthy grab-and-go snacks and meals. For those who wish to dine on-site Good Earth offers a dining counter and full outdoor seating. Wi-Fi has also been made available to all diners whether seated inside or out.
“We are so pleased to extend the Good Earth quality of product and service to the folks at Lakewood Ranch,” says Donna Braunstein, co-owner of Good Earth Natural Foods. “Our experience, attention to detail and longevity are all areas that will certainly benefit our Lakewood Ranch neighbors.” Second co-owner and the acting manager of the new store will be Dominic Bucci. Bucci has been with the firm for over six years and up until now could usually be found at Good Earth’s location on 14th street. “This Lakewood Ranch store will be like all our other stores combined, with a restaurant stuck right in the middle,” says Bucci. “I am so excited about this new store and am looking forward to meeting all of our Lakewood Ranch neighbors.” The third co-owner and corporate founder is Mark Egan. “Unprecedented customer service is what the Good Earth brand is known for and why our customers have stuck with us for many years ,“says Egan. “East County is definitely ready for us and we for them.”
The Lakewood Ranch Good Earth Natural Foods is at 8140 Lakewood Main Street.Phone number is (941)907-3073. Hours of operation are Mon. – Sat. 10am to 8pm and Sun. 12pm - 5pm. Email is www.goodearth.genf5@verizon.net.