ENGLEWOOD ­— Englewood native Gary Vasbinder used to travel a lot for work, doing sales for wholesalers or manufacturers — spending time in the community, not really being a part of it. “I would see people, but we didn’t interact,” … Find out how to read more online.

ENGLEWOOD — Despite several years of a lackluster economy, now could be the time to start a new business, provided you plan a head and take the necessary steps to be successful. Carolyn Griffin, Director of the Small Business Development … Find out how to read more online.

A business that has grown to be an institution downtown is discreetly changing ownership on Nov. 1.Tracy Silver, of Bloomington, Ill., has acquired the Venice Wine & Coffee Co., 201 W. Venice Ave., from Heide Jaeger-Drum and Ken Drum.Silver and … Find out how to read more online.

Will Pro-Health and Wealth LLC be the business project of the century? Rick Fishman, president and CEO, believes his new company will create hundreds of jobs and generate wealth.“A year ago I had a vision to obtain existing products not … Find out how to read more online.

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How quickly your company can get back to business after a terrorist attack or tornado, a fire or flood, or a hurricane often depends on emergency planning done today. The North Port Area Chamber of Commerce is presenting the 2010 … Find out how to read more online.

International Food Super Market is celebrating its second anniversary Saturday from 4-7 p.m.Owner Mira Babek thanks the community for its continued support by offering free food tastings, and she will serve beverages, cakes and more. The International Food Super Market … Find out how to read more online.

Early voting started Monday, and not only is it important to know about the candidates, but also there are a number of ballot issues that could have an impact on your business.One is a proposed constitutional amendment, Amendment 4, which … Find out how to read more online.

SOUTH GULF COVE — When Karen Nielsen took her pet therapy dog, Tux, to visit patients in hospital, she would try and make the occasion special by stringing pearls on Tux’s collar or sewing fabric flowers on her leash.Patients enjoyed … Find out how to read more online.

A family-operated business opens Oct. 1 with everything priced at less than $20.Owner Stacy Gilbert of Dallas, Ga., offers accessories at Simple Elegance Under $20, 137 W. Venice Ave., in the former Islander location.Managing the store is her mom, Patty … Find out how to read more online.