Looking Back—and Forward

For this issue, Cooper Levey-Baker undertook the huge task of compiling the highlights of the last year, and if I had one phrase to summarize the state of the economy in Sarasota and Manatee in 2012 it would be “not bad,” particularly if you’re tied to real estate and tourism. We’re still feeling the sunny effects of Dr. Beach’s No. 1 ranking of Siesta Beach, real estate sales were strong, prices inched up, builders announced big projects, investors entered the market to scoop up bargains and inventory of homes for sale dropped to about 4.5-months. Let’s hope the news in 2013 is even better.

And here’s a little bit of our own news: This month, we’ll be sending out a Friday edition of Biz(941) Daily that will include news and photos that you won’t see in our popular e-newsletter the rest of the week. And we’ve also set the date for our third annual Unity Awards, again presented in partnership with La Guia magazine. Mark your calendars for January 22, Michael’s On East, 11:30 a.m., and help us honor the individuals and businesses committed to encouraging diversity in our region. We had a sold-out crowd of more than 300 last year, so RSVP now. Order your tickets here: http://unityawards.eventbrite.com/#.

And from all of us at Biz(941), Happy Holidays and best wishes for a prosperous new year.