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michaelsaunders.com | 13 In the News While we know Florida's West Coast is the best place to call home, some of our notable local treasures are receiving international recognition. Siesta Key Beach, famous for its sugary, quartz sands was named the top beach in the 2015 TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice awards, while Conde Nast Traveler gave top honors to Coquina Beach on Anna Maria Island as one of the "Top 10 Island Beaches for Perfect Sand" in the world. Venice received its share of the spotlight, named as one of the top 10 "Happiest Seaside Towns in America" for 2015 by Coastal Living magazine. One of Sarasota's most anticipated projects will soon make an architectural statement along the bayfront. Located at the corner of U.S. 41 and Gulfstream Boulevard, VUE Sarasota Bay marries sophisticated modern design with luxury living. The 18-story waterfront tower features 141 condominium residences. The iconic structure will undoubtedly be a significant addition to the rich legacy of artistic creation that has become the hallmark of Sarasota's architectural portfolio. New single-family home construction projects continue to be strong for buyers from Bradenton to Boca Grande. The percentage of job seekers relocating last year rose to its highest level in five years, boosting the region's viability for new employment and housing opportunities. The Southwest Florida region saw the newest retail epicenter, The Mall at UTC, opened with much fanfare and economic opportunities for the area. New commercial expansion projects announced in the University Parkway corridor continue to bring new construction to the area, with Wawa and a second Whole Foods among the new stores. New residents and locals aren't the only ones basking in the warmth of the Florida sun. The region is also experiencing a boom in tourism, with record numbers of domestic and international visitors last year. The Punta Gorda Airport set a record with passenger traffic in 2014, reporting an 88% increase in traffic compared to the previous year. Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport added its own expansion, with direct flights to Reagan Washington National Airport on US Airways and Air Canada extending its non-stop Toronto service. The look of Southwest Florida is undergoing a dramatic change. Cranes fill the sky as new condominium and hotel construction projects break ground, while luxury shopping and dining destinations open in Venice, Sarasota and Bradenton catering to locals and tourists alike. Residence featured on page 49

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