Southwest Florida Networking Events

By TOM BAYLES Stability has returned to the Southwest Florida real estate market -- for now. Florida Realtors reported 784 home sales closed in the Sarasota-Bradenton market in November, not far from the average of 738 for the past year. The median price in November was $160,000, right at the point where prices have settled since summer.  

By KEVIN McQUAID Against all odds, Santa brought good news to Southwest Florida this season. Nationally, holiday sales are expected to be lower than last year, but Southwest Florida retailers say holiday buying here has been better than expected.  

Southwest Florida International Airport tweaks smoke rulesThe News-PressTo move outdoor smoking farther away from the main entrances "is no problem for me," said DeWitt, who described herself as a light, occasional smoker. ...Airport committee: Total smoking ban 'not the right move'NBC2 NewsGroup wants to limit, not ban smoking at Southwest Florida International AirportNaples Daily NewsOutdoor smoking restrictions proposed for SW Fla...  

Homebuilding in Southwest Florida and two metros in North Carolina are proof that growth can vary greatly from market to market. Florida could be showing signs of recovery as Neal Communities, a private builder in Southwest Florida secured 24 new contracts for homes in seven different communities in November. An October report put together by Manatee Association [...]  

Staff Report Another Southwest Florida business is dipping into the "Deadliest Catch." SeaLand Environmental Inc. is going to refit the "Time Bandit" fishing boat owned by two of the reality show's stars -- Johnathan and Andy Hillstrand -- with green technology.  

STAFF REPORT A flood watch has been issued for all coastal areas form Lakeland south to Fort Myers, including Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties. The National Weather Service is forecasting “excessive rainfall” today through this evening as two fronts sweep across the state.