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  • Lakewood Ranch Farmers’ Market Named No. 1 in Florida for the Second Year

    The Farmers’ Market at Lakewood Ranch was recently named No. 1 in Florida for the second year running, as part of the 15th annual America’s Farmers Market Celebration (AFMC), sponsored by the American Farmland Trust and the Farmers Market Coalition. The event ran from June 1 to July 31, during which the public voted on their favorite markets. The Market was also ranked No. 3 in the Southeast. The AFMC is the only annual ranking of the top farmers markets in the U.S. as voted on by the public.

    The Farmers’ Market at Lakewood Ranch, which is about to enter its seventh season, is home to more than 100 curated vendors of the region’s best food and flavors, and is located at Waterside Place – Lakewood Ranch’s dynamic lakefront town center. Open on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. year-round, The Market has become a favorite weekly tradition for people from all over the region seeking farm-fresh produce, prepared foods, and specialty items and gifts.

    “We are deeply grateful to have been voted the #1 market in Florida once again,” said Nicole Hackel, the Market’s manager. “Our commitment to enhancing the experience for our attendees drives us to continuously seek out new vendors, activities, and experiences for the Farmers’ Market.”

    The Market also works with Community Harvest SRQ as part of the Suncoast Gleaning Project. Among other efforts, volunteers pick up leftover vegetables from the farmers weekly and take them to food banks to make meals for those in need, thereby helping diminish food waste while providing nutritious produce to diverse populations. Other activities on Market Sundays include yoga at the adjacent Waterside Park, weekly live music, Kids’ Corner crafts, facepainting and balloon twisting, among others.

    Before or after enjoying the Farmers’ Market, Waterside Place visitors can immerse themselves in an engaging experience that offers more waterfront dining and shopping than any other locale in Manatee and Sarasota counties, including more than 30 carefully curated retailers and restaurants.

    For more information about The Market, contact Nicole Hackel at 941-757-1520 or visit lakewoodranch.com/life-on-the-ranch/themarket/.

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    About Waterside Place

    Waterside Place serves as the heart of Waterside – Lakewood Ranch’s first Sarasota village – and offers an elevated community experience that extends beyond that of a traditional town center. Situated on a 36-acre peninsula overlooking the mile-long Kingfisher Lake, the development blends entertainment with unique commercial, retail and office space; diverse international dining options; an eight-acre park with splash pad; miles of nature trails; communal “pop-up” spaces, and more.

    About Lakewood Ranch

    Lakewood Ranch is the 33,000+-acre award-winning master-planned community in Sarasota and Manatee counties on the West Coast of Florida. Just minutes from the Gulf Coast beaches and cultural assets in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch is already home to more than 72,000 residents and features top-rated schools, the Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, the Sarasota Polo Club, the 75-acre Premier Sports Campus, three town centers, and countless shopping and dining experiences. For more information visit www.lakewoodranch.com.

    LAKEWOOD RANCH REMAINS #1 TOP SELLING MULTI-GEN COMMUNITY IN THE NATION

    Lakewood Ranch continues to be the best-selling master-planned community for all ages in the U.S., according to national real estate consulting firm RCLCO’s 2024 mid-year survey. The Ranch secured 1,238 new home sales through the end of June of 2024, beating last year’s numbers and maintaining the No. 1 position for more than six consecutive years.

    The continued success of Lakewood Ranch, celebrating its 30th year of community building, is attributable to its multi-generational approach. Built around residential segmentation and lifestyle amenities appealing to a broad variety of age, income, and household segments, The Ranch continues to offer something for everyone.

    Lakewood Ranch offers a variety of neighborhoods, home styles and price points from $300K to more than $2 million, in 26 actively selling villages. Four new villages were introduced so far in 2024, ranging from Azario’s townhomes at the entry-level to Monterey’s luxury homes. Year-to-date, homes priced under $500K make up the largest segment of sales, accounting for 33%. This is followed by homes in the $500K to $700K range at 30%, and those in the $700k to $1M category at 19%. Homes over $1M represent a record 18% of total sales in Lakewood Ranch. Builder incentives, including interest rate buy-downs, promotional pricing, and assistance with closing costs, have helped buyers attain their homes.

    Consumers are increasingly favoring master-planned communities (MPCs), according to Laura Cole, senior vice president of Lakewood Ranch Communities. “MPCs are seen as an assurance of quality—community has become more important as a factor of total value,” Cole said. “The increase in sales of new homes located within MPCs reflects the lifestyle, community amenities, and quality schools, plus buyers’ anticipation that home prices will appreciate and hold up well in all market conditions.”

    Lifestyle continues to be a driver of sales. Lakewood Ranch’s three town centers are the hub of many activities, including an arts series, the award-winning weekly Farmers’ Market, a monthly Music on Main event that benefits a different non-profit each month; and many annual signature events. The Ranch’s parks and trails, and the nearby Sarasota Polo Club and Premier Sports Campus, afford residents numerous sports and leisure opportunities.

    The vast array of health and wellness options also appeal to buyers, with Lakewood Ranch Medical Center announcing its second expansion, and Erickson Senior Living’s new Emerson Lakes opening soon.

    RCLCO has been ranking master-planned communities since 1994; for more information, visit www.rclco.com.

    About Lakewood Ranch

    Lakewood Ranch is the 33,000+-acre award-winning master-planned community in Sarasota and Manatee counties on the West Coast of Florida. Just minutes from the Gulf Coast beaches and cultural assets in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch is already home to more than 72,000 residents and features top-rated schools, the Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, the Sarasota Polo Club, the 75-acre Premier Sports Campus, and three town centers that include theaters, shopping and dining. For more information, visit lakewoodranch.com.

    Ideal-LIVING Magazine Unveils the 2024 Top 100 Amenity Communities in its “Best Places to Live” Issue

    Wilmington, NC – June 18, 2024 – Ideal-LIVING magazine, a leading publication for those seeking to find their ideal destination, life, and home, is thrilled to announce its 2024 “Best Places to Live” issue. This special edition unveils its Top 100 Amenity Communities across the nation and abroad, based on reader surveys’ desired amenities.

    “Each year, we leverage valuable insights from our readers to identify the most desirable locations and the amenities that truly elevate their quality of life,” says Kelly Godbey, editor of Ideal-LIVING magazine. “This year’s Top 100 Amenity Communities cater to a wide range of preferences, from stunning mountain retreats and sun-kissed coastal escapes to exciting international destinations.”

    Ideal-LIVING’s research process considers the goals of its readership, many of whom seek an escape from high taxes and a yearning for a more favorable climate and a heightened quality of life. Whether your dream involves picturesque mountain vistas, breathtaking coastlines, or venturing beyond U.S. borders, the “Best Places to Live” issue offers a wealth of possibilities to spark your relocation journey.

    Beyond the magazine, Ideal-LIVING provides a robust online presence at https://ideal-living.com/best-places, allowing you to explore the Top 100 Amenity Communities in detail.

    For over 35 years, Ideal-LIVING magazine has empowered its readers with valuable resources and insights for a successful relocation. The magazine is part of RPI Media, a leading media group that offers a comprehensive suite of resources for those considering a move. This includes the in-depth Ideal-LIVING Relocation Guide and the highly regarded Ideal-LIVING Real Estate Shows held throughout the year.

    Explore the 2024 “Best Places to Live” issue and the Top 100 Amenity Communities list at ideal-LIVING.com/best-places today!

    Help Keep Lakewood Ranch Farmers’ Market No. 1 in Florida!

    Last year, the Farmers’ Market at Lakewood Ranch was named No. 1 in Florida as part of the 16th annual America’s Farmers Market Celebration (AFMC), sponsored by the American Farmland Trust and the Farmers Market Coalition. This year, voting runs from June 1 to July 31, during which the public is invited to vote on their favorite markets. “We are deeply honored to have been voted the #1 farmers’ market in Florida last year,” said Nicole Hackel, events and resident experience manager for Lakewood Ranch Communities. “This recognition is a testament to the dedication and passion of our vendors, the hard work of our Market team, and the unwavering support of our visitors. As we look ahead, we are eager to retain our top position in Florida and are excited about the opportunity to become the #1 farmers’ market in the nation this year.”

    The AFMC is the only annual ranking of the top farmers markets in the U.S. as voted on by the public.

    The Farmers’ Market at Lakewood Ranch, which is about to enter its seventh season, is home to more than 100 curated vendors of the region’s best food and flavors, and is located at Waterside Place – Lakewood Ranch’s newest town center. Open on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. year-round, The Market is a favorite weekly tradition for people from all over the region seeking farm-fresh produce, prepared foods, specialty items and gifts.

    Other activities on Market Sundays include yoga at 9 a.m. at the adjacent Waterside Park, weekly live music, Kids’ Corner crafts and games, and a Community Supported Agriculture program each fall and winter in partnership with Honeyside Farms.

    The Market also works with Community Harvest SRQ as part of the Suncoast Gleaning Project. Among other efforts, volunteers pick up leftover vegetables from the farmers weekly and take them to food banks to make meals for those in need, thereby helping diminish food waste while providing nutritious produce to diverse populations.

    “The Farmers’ Market has become the heart of our community, serving as a cherished weekly gathering space,” Hackel said. “It’s where we come together to connect with friends and neighbors, bring our families and furry friends, and enjoy live music set against the stunning backdrop of Kingfisher Lake. This vibrant atmosphere embodies the spirit of Lakewood Ranch, fostering connections and celebrating local talent and vendors. We are deeply grateful for the continued support and enthusiasm that makes our market a special place for everyone.”

    For more information about The Market, contact Nicole Hackel at 941-757-1520 or visit lakewoodranch.com/life-on-the-ranch/themarket/.

    # # #

    About Waterside Place

    Waterside Place serves as the heart of Waterside – Lakewood Ranch’s first Sarasota village – and offers an elevated community experience that extends beyond that of a traditional town center. Situated on a 36-acre peninsula overlooking the mile-long Kingfisher Lake, the development blends entertainment with unique in-line and freestanding commercial, retail and office space; diverse dining options; an eight-acre park; miles of nature trails; communal “pop-up” spaces, and more.

    About Lakewood Ranch

    Lakewood Ranch is the 33,000+-acre award-winning master-planned community in Sarasota and Manatee counties on the West Coast of Florida. Just minutes from the Gulf Coast beaches and cultural assets in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch is already home to more than 70,000 residents and features top-rated schools, the Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, the Sarasota Polo Club, the 75-acre Premier Sports Campus, three town centers, and countless shopping and dining experiences. For more information visit www.lakewoodranch.com.

    Lakewood Ranch Enhances Community Engagement with Innovative New App

    Lakewood Ranch has launched the new myLWR, the first integrated digital platform for resident engagement and community management. Developed by property technology firm Cecilian Partners, this groundbreaking tool underscores Lakewood Ranch’s commitment to creating an exceptional resident experience. 

    “Lakewood Ranch is the fastest-selling multi-generational community in the nation because of their commitment to resident experience and innovation,” said Philip Worland, co-founder and chief product officer at Cecilian. “With this new platform, residents will have access to information and features that allow them to more easily engage with their complex community.” 

    The myLWR app and website bring all the critical elements of the resident experience into one place. The app and website have the same user login credentials; no matter which way users engage with the platform, they have full access.  

    Users can access everything from a full calendar of events to information on parks and community facilities. Other highlights of myLWR include connection with organizations in Lakewood Ranch, including clubs hosted by Community Activities; and opportunities to volunteer in the community through the Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation, Lakewood Ranch Community Activities, and the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance. 

    When residents register with their home address, they are linked to their HOA contact information and provided specific utility service information. Residents also receive special pricing for Lakewood Ranch Community Activities’ signature events, like the Parks and Rec programs, and reservations for park spaces.  

    Although some features were designed with residents in mind, users do not have to live in Lakewood Ranch to register for the app and website. 

    “With MyLWR, we’re excited to provide a more streamlined and user-friendly experience for our community,” said Keith Pandeloglou, president and CEO of Lakewood Ranch Community Activities. “In just a few short months, there are upwards of 4,000 residents and 1,500 nonresidents registered – our goal is every resident, whether you own a home here or rent! 

    “MyLWR.com is a game-changer for our operations,” Pandeloglou continued. “We’re now able to make data-driven decisions to help continue to improve our community amenities and programs.” 

    The launch of myLWR follows last year’s implementation of the interactive map tool at Lakewood Ranch’s Information Center at Main Street. 

    The tool allows users to learn about the region, get the “big picture” of Lakewood Ranch and where community features like parks, schools, and town centers are located; explore the features that are important to them, such as golf, parks and trails, etc.; and narrow down prospective villages that match their search criteria. 

    “We continually strive to evolve with our prospective and current residents, and that’s why we have introduced new technologies and tools,” said Sandy Shahinian, vice president of marketing for Lakewood Ranch Communities. “Our interactive map and the myLWR platform bring Lakewood Ranch to your fingertips, making it easier than ever to discover and experience all we have to offer.” 

    About Lakewood Ranch 

    Lakewood Ranch is the 33,000+-acre award-winning master-planned community in Sarasota and Manatee counties on the West Coast of Florida. Just minutes from the Gulf Coast beaches and cultural assets in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch is already home to more than 70,000 residents and features top-rated schools, the Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, the Sarasota Polo Club, the 75-acre Premier Sports Campus, and three town centers that include theaters, shopping and dining. For more information, visit lakewoodranch.com. 

    About Lakewood Ranch

    Lakewood Ranch is the 33,000+-acre award-winning master-planned community in Sarasota and Manatee counties on the West Coast of Florida. Just minutes from the Gulf Coast beaches and cultural assets in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch is already home to more than 70,000 residents and features top-rated schools, the Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, the Sarasota Polo Club, the 75-acre Premier Sports Campus, and three town centers that include theaters, shopping, and dining. For more information, visit lakewoodranch.com.

    Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation Welcomes M/I Homes of Sarasota to its Builders Give Back Program

    LAKEWOOD RANCH, Fla. (May 7, 2024) – The Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation (LWRCF) is pleased to welcome M/I Homes of Sarasota’s Village Nautique to its Builders Give Back program. Through this program, which launched in May 2023, builders make a $100 donation per closing to the LWRCF in the name of the new homeowner. M/I Homes of Sarasota joins the other builders currently participating in the program: Anchor Builders, AR Homes, Homes By Towne, John Cannon Homes, Lee Wetherington Homes, Neal Communities, Neal Signature Homes, Pulte Homes, and Stock Luxury Homes. The program is further supported by Lakewood Ranch Communities, which donates a matching $100 per closing to the LWRCF.

    The Builders Give Back program benefits the LWRCF by developing engagement with homeowners in their community and introducing them to local philanthropy, which in turn will help create support for the LWRCF into the future.

    Greg Crawford, area president of M/I Homes of Sarasota, said, “Community is at the heart of what we do. By partnering with the Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation’s Builders Give Back program, we aim to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who call Lakewood Ranch home.”

    Adrienne Bookhamer, executive director of the LWRCF, stated, “Since starting the Builders Give Back program a year ago, we have reached over 500 families moving into Lakewood Ranch. In 2023, the LWRCF awarded grants to 17 nonprofits totaling over $60,000 raised through this program. With more builders joining in 2024, we can support even more local life-changing nonprofit organizations and causes embedded in the area.”

    The mission of the LWRCF, which is financed fully by residents and businesses, is to enhance the quality of life in and near the Lakewood Ranch community by responding to local needs, granting funds, and building lasting relationships. As Lakewood Ranch continues to grow, the needs of the community – including human services, education, animal services, and arts and culture – will also grow.

    For more information, visit lwrcf.org or call (941) 208-6799.

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    The Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit devoted to enhancing the quality of life in and near the Lakewood Ranch, Florida community by responding to needs, granting funds, and building lasting relationships. Since its founding in 2000, the fund has granted over $1.5 million to more than 140 nonprofit organizations to directly improve the lives of Lakewood Ranch residents. Let us “Open the Door.”

    Forestar Opens Star Farms at Lakewood Ranch First Amenity Campus

    SARASOTA, FL, APRIL 29, 2024 – Forestar Group Inc. (“Forestar”), one of the largest single-family community developers in the nation, celebrated the phase one opening of The Resort Club, the first amenity campus for Star Farms at Lakewood Ranch. The Resort Club grand opening was held on Saturday, April 13, 2024. Star Farms homeowners enjoyed new amenities, food, refreshments and each other.

    The social hub of Star Farms, The Resort Club is an innovative, amenity-rich campus including a hospitality-staffed clubhouse, where members explore interests, stay active and connect with friends. The first phase features a resort-style pool and spa, poolside cabanas and beach areas, pet park, Trade Route Coffee Shop, Star Fit Wellness Complex – Fitness and Performance Centers, community lawn, courtyard and golf cart parking. A poolside bar and grill, outdoor activities area, event center, The Terrace – Chef’s Patio and a mail kiosk are planned for future phases. Upon completion, Star Farms will offer four resort campuses: The Resort Club, Junction Place, Adventure Retreat and Cabana Corner, in addition to greenways and trails.

    “We are pleased to share a touch of hospitality with our residents and guests in our new bakery and coffee kitchen along with the fitness programs and resort-style pool,” said Tony Squitieri, Forestar Region Vice President and West Florida Region Division President. “Filled with local partnerships for goods and services, our residents enjoy our attention to detail, unique amenities and special touches.”

    Surrounded by the natural beauty of Southwest Florida, Star Farms at Lakewood Ranch is a multigenerational lifestyle community that offers a unique experience tailored to residents. The thoughtfully designed, 700-acre, gated village is a resort ranch hometown featuring 1,500 single-family homes, paired villa retreats and townhomes with a variety of amenities, clubs and hospitality services. Positioned within the award-winning master-planned community of Lakewood Ranch, Star Farms is minutes from dining, shopping and cultural activities as well as top-rated beaches.

    “Star Farms has done a masterful job of integrating amenities that promote wellness, social interaction, and relaxation in a hometown environment,” said Laura Cole,  Senior Vice President of LWR Communities. “They epitomize the ‘live your best life’ ethos for residents of all ages.”

    Whether exploring new adventures, discovering new passions, meeting new neighbors or finding new ways to connect with nature, Star Farms is an extraordinary place to call home.

    Visit www.starfarmslwr.com and join the VIP Club for the latest information.

    About Lakewood Ranch

    Lakewood Ranch is the 33,000+-acre award-winning master-planned community in Sarasota and Manatee counties on the West Coast of Florida. Just minutes from the Gulf Coast beaches and cultural assets in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch is already home to more than 67,000 residents and features top-rated schools, the Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, the Sarasota Polo Club, the 75-acre Premier Sports Campus, three town centers, and countless shopping and dining experiences. For more information visit www.lakewoodranch.com.

    About Forestar Group Inc.

    Forestar Group Inc. is a residential lot development company with operations in 57 markets and 23 states. Based in Arlington, Texas, the Company delivered more than 15,200 residential lots during the twelve-month period ended March 31, 2024. Forestar is a majority-owned subsidiary of D.R. Horton, Inc., the largest homebuilder by volume in the United States since 2002. For more information, visit www.forestar.com.

    Community pricing, features, terms, availability and amenities are subject to change at any time without notice or obligation. 

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    Best of SRQ Award Winners

    SRQ magazine recently announced its 2023 “Best of SRQ” winners. SRQ readers set records, with 104,395 votes for their hometown favorites. Voting for the 15th annual competition took place over the course of four weeks, covering numerous categories such as favorite local eats, shopping, and hotspots. More than 40 Lakewood Ranch businesses or partners were honored, including those from Waterside Place, Lakewood Ranch Main Street, Ranch Nites’ food trucks, and Farmers’ Market vendors!

    Waterside Place Tenants:

    Best Local Burger – Forked at Waterside

    Best Local French Fries – Forked at Waterside

    Best New Local Restaurant – Forked at Waterside

    Best Local Breakfast – Forked at Waterside

    Best Local Brunch – Forked at Waterside

    Best Local Salad – Forked at Waterside

    Best Local Alfresco Dining – Good Liquid Brewing Company

    Best Local Korean – Kore Steakhouse

    Best Local Brewery – Good Liquid Brewing Company

    Best Local Coffee Shop – O & A Coffee and Supply

    Best Local Juices + Smoothies – Crop Juice

    Best Fitness Coach/ Studio – BODYBAR Pilates – Lakewood Ranch

    Best Mani/Pedi – PAINT Nail Bar

    Best New Business in 2023 – Forked at Waterside

    Best Legal Firm – Williams Parker Attorneys at Law

    Main Street Tenants:

    Best Local Happy Hour – Grove

    Best Wine Shop – Fine Wine & Tastings on Main

    Best Local Bike Shop – Village Bikes

    Best Fitness Coach/ Studio – Barre3, Main Street Lakewood Ranch

    Best Eyecare Practice – InFocus Family Eyecare

    Best Pool Contractor – Waterscapes Pools and Spas

    Regular Food Trucks:

    Best Local Food Truck – The Maine Line Food Truck

    Best Local Food Truck – Mouthole Bbq

    Best Local Food Truck – Big Blue Grilled Cheese

    Best Local Food – Clean Plate SRQ

    Best Local Pizza – Cornerstone and Company

    Farmers Market Vendors:

    Best Local Bread – Bread Bandits

    Best Local Bread – Rendez-Vous French Bakery

    Other Affiliations/ Miscellaneous:

    Best Local Farmers’ Market – The Farmer’s Market at Lakewood Ranch

    Best Local Farm – Honeyside Farms

    Best Local Florist – Mindful Blooms Farm 

    Best Hospital – Lakewood Ranch Medical Center

    Best Nursing Home – Grand Living At Lakewood Ranch

    Best Local Arts Organization – West Coast Black Theatre Troupe

    Best Performing Arts Organization – West Coast Black Theatre Troupe

    Best Performing Arts Organization – Asolo Repertory Theatre

    Best Local Festival – Bradenton Blues Fest

    Best Private School – Out of Door Academy

    Best Private Golf Course – Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club

    Best Local Home Builder – Neal Communities, John Cannon Homes, Lee Wetherington Homes, Arthur Rutenberg Homes

    Best Local Chamber – Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance

    Best New Home Community – Windward by Neal Communities