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  • M/I Homes Raises $141,000 for Cancer Research Through Sweetwater at Lakewood Ranch Benefit Home


    M/I Homes Raises $141,000 for Cancer Research Through Sweetwater at Lakewood Ranch Benefit Home

    SARASOTA, FL — In a powerful demonstration of community collaboration and corporate philanthropy, M/I Homes has announced a $141,000 donation to Pelotonia, a nonprofit organization committed to funding life-saving cancer research. The funds were raised through the sale of a specially designated Benefit Home in the Sweetwater at Lakewood Ranch community.

    This year’s initiative brought together builders, vendors, and developers in a shared mission to support groundbreaking cancer research. A key contributor was Schroeder-Manatee Ranch, Inc., developer of Lakewood Ranch, which donated more than $15,000 toward the effort.

    “We’re honored to be part of a cause that touches so many lives,” said Sandy Shahinian Levins, VP of Marketing for Schroeder-Manatee Ranch. “Cancer research is a cause close to our hearts, and we’re proud to join M/I Homes in making a difference.”

    The donation was formally presented at a recognition event held on October 6, where Erika Walker, Pelotonia’s Philanthropy & Stewardship Manager, 

    accepted the check on behalf of the organization. “This generous contribution from M/I Homes and its partners continues to fuel our mission to end cancer,” said Walker. “Their commitment not only provides critical funding but also raises awareness and inspires others to get involved.”

    Greg Crawford, president of M/I Homes Sarasota division, emphasized the collective nature of the achievement: “This donation represents the heart of our community. It’s the result of countless hours, generous contributions, and a shared belief that together, we can make a difference.”

    The benefit home program is part of M/I Homes’ broader national partnership with Pelotonia, reinforcing the company’s dedication to causes that improve lives and strengthen communities.

    To learn more about M/I Homes’ partnership with Pelotonia, visit www.mihomes.com/pelotonia/overview.

    Lakewood Ranch’s Waterfront Farmers’ Market Selected as #1 Farmers Market in America

    NEWS RELEASE

    Media Contact: Kaitlyn Perez, news@kpcstrategies.com, 941.229.0879

    Lakewood Ranch’s Waterfront Farmers’ Market Selected as #1 Farmers Market in America

    Lakewood Ranch, FL – October 3, 2025 – Lakewood Ranch’s year-round farmers’ market has been named the #1 Farmers Market in America by American Farmland Trust, topping nearly 1,300 markets nationwide in the organization’s 17th annual celebration. The Market also earned the top spot in Florida.

    Every Sunday brings fresh food, arts, culture, live music, activities, and more, all of which are delivered by local vendors. Much like Lakewood Ranch itself, the Market has something for all ages. With more than 100 vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal goods, prepared foods, and crafts, the Market reflects the region’s energy and diversity. However, the experience goes beyond browsing local stands. Families sip locally roasted coffee while seated in Adirondack chairs overlooking the water, neighbors dance to vibrant live music, and children and families share memorable moments at the Ranch’s lakefront town center, Waterside Place. 

    What sets this market apart is its atmosphere, unique local vendors, and endless activities. Children enjoy their own “Kids’ Zone,” featuring monthly STEM programs, face painting, and storytelling, keeping the younger visitors engaged. The thoughtfully designed master-planned community has always emphasized education, so it’s only fitting that even on weekends, the Ranch provides a place to merge learning and fun. 

    Some popular features of the Market include a subscription-based Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) box that helps shoppers experiment with seasonal vegetables and learn more about Florida’s growing cycles. The Market also partners with Harvest SRQ, a food gleaning initiative where volunteers work with farmers to collect surplus produce and deliver it to local shelters and nonprofits, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

    “This recognition is a true reflection of our hardworking team, the 100+ talented vendors, and the thousands of attendees who relentlessly support local businesses,” commented Lakewood Ranch’s Events and Resident Experience Manager, Nicole Hackel. “From location to atmosphere, our Market has become more than just a place to shop; it’s a gathering place, a weekly tradition, and a true community hub.”

    For vendors, the Market is both a launching pad for small businesses and a source of community connection, where passion for craft meets purpose. Michael Top, owner of Camelot Breads, retired from banking at 55, earned a culinary degree, and began baking small batches of bread from the comfort of his home. Today, he mills his own flour, sources organic ingredients from Florida farms, and produces hundreds of loaves each week. Known for his farm-to-table breads and community spirit, he offers free loaves to customers over 90 and invites local kids to work at his booth, making him a beloved fixture of the Farmers’ Market at Lakewood Ranch.

    “This market is really the grassroots of the American dream,” adds Top. “It supports the idea that some businesses may have started in their garage, but here they are now—a success. They are selling their products to people who appreciate quality and want to support small businesses.”

    The Farmers’ Market at Lakewood Ranch takes place weekly on Sundays at the community’s popular Waterside Place. For more information, visit lakewoodranch.com/life-on-the-ranch/themarket/.

    ABOUT LAKEWOOD RANCH 

    Developed by Schroeder-Manatee Ranch, Lakewood Ranch is the 55-square-mile, award-winning master-planned community located in Sarasota and Manatee counties on Florida’s west coast. Just a few miles from the region’s white-sand beaches and offering a robust mix of cultural assets, Lakewood Ranch is home to more than 74,000 residents. It has ranked as the nation’s top-selling multigenerational master-planned community for seven consecutive years and serves as a major economic engine for the region, with more than 22,000 people employed across a growing mix of businesses, healthcare facilities, and commercial centers. The community also features top-rated schools, Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, the 75-acre Premier Sports Campus, Sarasota Polo Club, and three vibrant town centers with shopping, dining, and entertainment. Lakewood Ranch is a place where individuals and families can put down roots, build careers, and find community. For more information, visit lakewoodranch.com. 

    Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation’s Builders Give Back Program Celebrates $118,800 Raised to Date

    LAKEWOOD RANCH, Fla. (September 22, 2025) – The Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation (LWRCF) recently held its Builders Give Back program annual meeting, sponsored by Williams Parker-Waterside and hosted by Good Liquid Brewing in Waterside. The program, which has raised $118,800 for LWRCF since its inception in 2023, is an initiative of LWRCF, Lakewood Ranch Communities, and 11 of the community’s premier builders.  

    For every new home closing, the participating builders – Anchor Builders, AR Homes, Homes by Towne, John Cannon Homes, Lee Wetherington Homes, Lennar, M/I Homes, Neal Communities, Neal Signature Homes, Pulte Homes, and Stock – make a donation to LWRCF in the new homeowner’s name. Lakewood Ranch Communities, the developer of Lakewood Ranch, matches each contribution.

    With a “live here, give here” approach, the work of LWRCF is to support the nonprofits making an impact in Lakewood Ranch, as well as in Manatee and Sarasota counties. The Builders Give Back program allows new residents to experience the giving culture of Lakewood Ranch right when they move in.

    For more information about the Builders Give Back program and LWRCF, 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.”

    MEDIA CONTACT

    Nyda Bittmann-Neville, Nyda@TNBGroup.com, 828-246-4525

    Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation Awarded $60,255 in Grants During the First and Second Quarters of 2025

    LAKEWOOD RANCH, Fla. (August 18, 2025) – The Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation (LWRCF) is pleased to announce it awarded $60,255 total to 16 grant recipients in the first and second quarters of 2025.

    LWRCF’s grants committee meets quarterly to assess the applications received and thoroughly examines each request. The foundation’s board of directors is extremely grateful to have the ability, through donations, to fund the requests of local organizations.

    These nonprofit organizations received funding to support various programs, purchases, and projects: Avenue 941 Inc., Bailes Consulting, Boys and Girls Club, Children’s Guardian Fund, Epilepsy Services, Forty Carrots, Hope Family Services, Local Relief, Manatee Habitat for Humanity, Meals on Wheels Plus-Manatee, Meals on Wheels Sarasota, One Stop Cares, Samaritan Counseling Services, Sarasota Orchestra, State College of Florida Foundation, and Take Stock in Children Manatee.

    Grant applications may be requested at any time and are reviewed by the grants committee on a quarterly basis. Visit LWRCF.org to view eligibility requirements and the process for applications.

    LWRCF is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year with a goal to raise $250,000. The next major event is Soirée at the Ranch, November 13, 2025 at the Lakewood Ranch Country Club. For more information about LWRCF and upcoming events, visit LWRCF.org, email info@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 Introduces Perry Homes to Star Farms at Lakewood Ranch and Growth of Luxury Builder Program

    SARASOTA, FL, August 15, 2025 – Forestar Group Inc. (“Forestar”), one of the largest residential community developers in the nation,  announces the growth of the Star Farms at Lakewood Ranch luxury builder program with the introduction of Perry Homes. Perry Homes will open with 50’ to 90’ homesites and plans ranging from 2,011 square feet to 3,865 square feet. In addition, there will be models showcasing a variety of homesite and plan options.

    “Known for timeless design and attention to detail, Perry Homes is a strong match for the Lakewood Ranch way of life,” said Laura Cole, Senior Vice President for Lakewood Ranch Communities. “Their debut in Star Farms—the top-selling village in the community— fills a key niche in the builder lineup, expanding the range of high-quality options for discerning buyers.”

    One of the premier models, the 3702F, has a covered front porch, private home office with front yard views, family room filled with natural light, backyard covered lanai, kitchen equipped with an island and a walk-in pantry, as well as a dining area which overlooks a backyard cabana. From the family room is the game room, framed by two walls of windows, providing additional gathering space. The primary suite is a tranquil retreat with a wall of windows and french doors leading to the primary bathroom with two walk-in closets, a linen closet, dual vanities, a freestanding tub, and a large glass-enclosed shower. Each secondary bedroom includes a private bathroom and walk-in closet. The three-car split garage offers an additional storage area.

    “We are proud to bring Perry Homes to Star Farms at Lakewood Ranch, a community that shares our commitment to quality living and thoughtful design,” said Garrison Taska, Perry Homes Division President. “This expansion reflects our dedication to delivering exceptional homes tailored to every lifestyle, where families can grow, connect and thrive in the state’s most desirable communities.” 

    The newly unveiled discovery luxury neighborhood collection at Star Farms is designed for families seeking a custom home and grand estate curated experience nestled alongside natural preserves and pristine lakes. The Star Farms luxury builders include Homes by West Bay, Perry Homes, AR Homes, John Cannon, and Lee Wetherington.

    “We are excited to continue to expand our luxury builder program offering with the addition of Perry Homes,” Tony Squitieri, Forestar West Florida Region Vice President. “Perry Homes is a top ranked builder committed to quality and a great customer experience.”

    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, 1,300-acre, gated village is a resort ranch hometown featuring 2,800 single-family homes, paired villa retreats and townhomes with a variety of amenities, clubs and hospitality services. The featured homebuilders in Star Farms showcase numerous floorplans to choose from, ranging from approximately 1,500 to more than 5,000 square feet with luxury, custom options available. Positioned as the largest master-planned community within the award-winning Lakewood Ranch, Star Farms is minutes from dining, shopping and cultural activities as well as top-rated beaches.

    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 Perry Homes

    Perry Homes is the largest woman-owned homebuilder and has established a Tradition of Excellence in homebuilding over the past 58 years. Family-owned and operated since its inception in 1967, Perry Homes is committed to building quality, superior homes while providing exceptional customer care before, during, and after construction. The homebuilder has earned a phenomenal reputation by evolving with the wants and needs of its 70,000+ customers, all while securing a 95% satisfaction rating*. Perry Homes offers a variety of timeless and modern architectural concepts with more than 500 new home designs. Buyers will find a robust selection of quality standard features and design options in every home that radiate elegance and sophistication, including soaring ceilings, gorgeous walls of windows, open concepts, and flexible spaces to fit any lifestyle. For more information, visit www.perryhomes.com. *Since 2016, over 95% of homeowners who completed the Perry Homes New Homeowner Survey have rated their overall satisfaction as “Satisfied” or “Very Satisfied.” The homebuilder sends a New Homeowner Survey to the primary customer contact for every home between 30 and 60 days after closing.

    About Lakewood Ranch

    Developed by Schroeder-Manatee Ranch, Lakewood Ranch is the 55-square-mile, award-winning master-planned community located in Sarasota and Manatee counties on Florida’s west coast. Just a few miles from the region’s white-sand beaches and offering a robust mix of cultural assets, Lakewood Ranch is home to more than 74,000 residents. It has ranked as the nation’s top-selling multigenerational master-planned community for seven consecutive years and serves as a major economic engine for the region, with more than 22,000 people employed across a growing mix of businesses, healthcare facilities, and commercial centers. The community also features top-rated schools, Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, the 75-acre Premier Sports Campus, Sarasota Polo Club, and three vibrant town centers with shopping, dining, and entertainment. Lakewood Ranch is a place where individuals and families can put down roots, build careers, and find community. For more information, visit www.lakewoodranch.com.

    About Forestar Group Inc.

    Forestar Group Inc. is a residential lot development company with operations in 64 markets and 23 states. Based in Arlington, Texas, the Company delivered more than 14,700 residential lots during the twelve-month period ended June 30, 2025. Forestar is a majority-owned subsidiary of D.R. Horton, 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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    Contact:

    Katy Walker

    Walker Group

    kwalker@wgcmarketing.com

    (770) 880-3189

    Lakewood Ranch once again holds the top spot as the nation’s best-selling multigenerational community.

    Lakewood Ranch, FL – July 28, 2025 – Lakewood Ranch once again holds the top spot as the nation’s best-selling multigenerational community. In its latest mid-year report, RCLCO, the nation’s leading real estate advisory firm, which has tracked master-planned community sales since 1994, recognizes Lakewood Ranch for its resilience and sustained demand.

    With 1,185 new home sales through June, the community saw only a modest 4% dip year-over-year—far outperforming the nearly 7% average decline among the broader new home market and the nation’s top 50 master-planned communities.

    Homebuyers continue to express confidence in the stability and long-term value of Lakewood Ranch, a community developed over the past 31 years under the stewardship of a family that has owned the land for more than a century. This enduring commitment has delivered thoughtful development, consistent quality, and meticulous design at every stage of the community’s evolution.

    Trends in Lakewood Ranch from the first half of 2025 point to a continued shift in buyer preferences, particularly toward more attainable price points and diverse housing options. Attached homes, including townhomes, villas, and condominiums, accounted for 42% of total sales, a significant increase from the historical average of 12%. The buyer profile remains broad, with 42% move-up buyers, 29% entry-level, 22% active adults, and 7% in the luxury segment—reinforcing Lakewood Ranch’s appeal across life stages and price ranges.

    “In times of uncertainty, there is always a flight to quality,” commented Laura Cole, senior vice president of Lakewood Ranch. “Buyers become more discerning. They don’t gamble with their home purchases—they look for places with a track record, consistency, and proven stewardship. That’s what gives them peace of mind and Lakewood Ranch fits that profile in spades.”

    That trust is reflected in the steady stream of individuals and families drawn to Lakewood Ranch—not simply for homes, but for a better way of life. With 46% of the community dedicated to open space, more than 150 miles of trails, top-rated schools, vibrant town centers, and weekly events, the Ranch offers a rare mix of livability, convenience, and lasting value. Its location near I-75, as well as its proximity to world-class beaches and cultural hubs like Sarasota and Tampa, further enhances its appeal.

    With new villages coming online and a range of home options available, Lakewood Ranch remains well-prepared to meet evolving buyer demand through the remainder of the year.


    ABOUT LAKEWOOD RANCH
    Developed by Schroeder-Manatee Ranch, Lakewood Ranch is the 55-square-mile, award-winning master-planned community located in Sarasota and Manatee counties on Florida’s west coast. Just a few miles from the region’s white-sand beaches and offering a robust mix of cultural assets, Lakewood Ranch is home to more than 74,000 residents. It has ranked as the nation’s top-selling multigenerational master-planned community for seven consecutive years and serves as a major economic engine for the region, with more than 22,000 people employed across a growing mix of businesses, healthcare facilities, and commercial centers. The community also features top-rated schools, Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, the 75-acre Premier Sports Campus, Sarasota Polo Club, and three vibrant town centers with shopping, dining, and entertainment. Lakewood Ranch is a place where individuals and families can put down roots, build careers, and find community. For more information, visit lakewoodranch.com.

    Ideal-LIVING Magazine Unveils the 2025 Top 100 Amenity Communities in its “Best Places to Live” Issue

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Ideal-LIVING Magazine Unveils the 2025 Top 100 Amenity Communities in its “Best Places to Live” Issue

    Wilmington, NC – June 2025 – Ideal-LIVING magazine, a leading publication dedicated to guiding individuals in finding their ideal destination, lifestyle, and home, is thrilled to announce its 2025 “Best Places to Live” issue. This special edition proudly unveils its Top 100 Amenity Communities across the nation and abroad, meticulously selected based on extensive reader surveys identifying their most desired amenities and lifestyle preferences.

    “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.”

    These carefully curated communities are distinguished by their top-tier offerings, including a diverse array of amenities such as golf courses, tennis and pickleball courts, watersports facilities, extensive hiking and biking trails, state-of-the-art fitness centers, luxurious spas, marinas, and inviting pools. They are chosen for fostering a strong sense of community, promoting healthy living through walkable environments, and often providing the peace of mind that comes with gated security and numerous social clubs. Many offer the convenience of self-contained living with access to restaurants, grocery stores, and crucial proximity to quality medical centers, alongside the appeal of maintenance-free living with beautifully maintained homes.

    Ideal-LIVING’s research process meticulously 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 in Tennessee, breathtaking coastlines in the Carolinas or Florida, or venturing to exciting international destinations, 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 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 2025 “Best Places to Live” issue and the Top 100 Amenity Communities list at ideal-LIVING.com/best-places today!

    CONTACT:

    Kelly Godbey

    KellyG@ideal-LIVING.com

    Neal Communities to Celebrate Palm Grove Grand Opening June 27

    New Neal Communities’ Lakewood Ranch development Palm Grove to celebrate Grand Opening on June 27, featuring nine model homes, including this Liberty 4.

    LAKEWOOD RANCH, Fla. June 11, 2025 – Neal Communities, southwest Florida’s premier, private homebuilder, will celebrate the grand opening of its Discovery Center on Friday, June 27 from 4:00-6:00 p.m. and a virtual event at noon for those who cannot attend in person.  RSVP is requested for both events at https://on.nealcommunities.com/palm-grove-go/. Two food trucks and dessert will be complimentary while supplies last.

    Palm Grove also offers nine decorated models in the 900-home community, featuring single family homes, townhomes and paired villas being built in east Manatee County adjacent to Lake Manatee State Park.

    Plans for the community include a centrally located amenity center clubhouse with a social spaces, a fitness center, resort-style and lap pools, pickleball, yoga lawn, tot lot, dog parks and more, which are already under construction. An on-site lifestyle director will also coordinate year-round events.

    “Palm Grove is already coming together as an amazing community that showcases the natural beauty of the site,” said Pat Neal, founder and chairman of Neal Communities. “With opportunities ranging from townhouses to villas to single family homes, Palm Grove offers something for every homebuyer.”

    The architectural styles of the homes will include British West Indies, farmhouse, coastal and French Colonial. There will be 19 total floorplans offered and nine decorated models available to tour, including five single family floorplans and two each townhome and villa floorplans. In all, there are 15 single family home designs available to build, ranging from 1,533 – 3,483 square feet, two villa options ranging from 1,638 – 1,848 square feet, and two townhouse options that are both 1,790 square feet.  Home prices will start in the low $300s for townhomes, $399,990 for villas and $430,990 for single family homes.

    “Completing one of the final phases of the nation’s premier multi-generational master-planned community, Palm Grove is an exciting new place to call home,” said Carlos Puente, vice president of sales and marketing. “Blending Florida Modern–style amenities with a broad selection of homes, this community is thoughtfully designed to welcome all lifestyles.”

    Palm Grove is located on the north side of State Road 64, west of Dam Road, and just east of Uihlein Road. The homes will be zones to attend Witt Elementary, Haile Middle and Parrish Community High Schools. Beginning in the Fall of 2025, Lake Manatee School, a new K-8 facility, will open just across SR64 from Palm Grove for students in the community for the upcoming school year.

    For more information about Palm Grove, visit www.palmgrovevibes.com.

    Contact: Jeff Durosko

    jeff@duroskopr.com

    412.635.7229

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    About Neal Communities
    Neal Communities, based in Lakewood Ranch, Florida, is Southwest Florida’s largest and most established locally owned and operated private builder. During the company’s 55-year history, it has built more than 24,500 new homes in more than 90 acclaimed communities from Tampa to Naples. The company consistently ranks among the nation’s top 100 home builders and has earned numerous awards including the prestigious Builder of the Year from Professional Builder in 2015 and America’s Best Builder in 2012 from BUILDER Magazine. With a core belief that “Where You Live Matters,” Neal Communities has given more than $8.5 million to local charities throughout Southwest Florida and is committed to the communities where they live, work and build. Company revenue in fiscal year 2024 was $800 million.

    Additional Neal Communities brands include Neal Signature Homes, Charlene Neal PureStyle, Waterscapes Pools & Spas, Neal Communities Funding and Allegiant Title Professionals. For more information, visit NealCommunities.com.

    Forestar Hosts Grand Opening of the Star Farms at Lakewood Ranch Poolside Bar & Grill

    SARASOTA, FL, June 11, 2025 – Forestar Group Inc. (“Forestar”), one of the largest residential community developers in the nation,  announces the grand opening of The Palm Bar, a new restaurant nestled in the resort campus of Star Farms at Lakewood Ranch. With multiple entertainment spaces, including a relaxing outdoor atmosphere with alfresco dining, this location offers the best of Florida-style living. Menu items include tasty foods served hot off the grill and freshly prepared salads paired with frozen and fruity beverages. The grand opening festivities of The Palm Bar were held June 5-7, serving nearly 800 residents and invited guests.

    “We are thrilled to open our newest dining experience, The Palm Bar, on our resort campus,” Tony Squitieri, Forestar Region Vice President and West Florida Region Division President. “We have created another resort getaway for our residents and guests to enjoy the fresh air and relaxing dining atmosphere.”

    The Palm Bar is located in The Resort Club, the social hub of Star Farms at Lakewood Ranch. The Resort Club is an innovative, amenity-rich campus, including a hospitality-staffed facility, where members explore interests, stay active and connect with friends. The initial phase showcases a resort-style pool and spa, poolside cabanas and beach areas, a pet park, Trade Route Coffee Shop, Star Fit Wellness Complex – Fitness and Performance Centers, community lawn, courtyard and golf cart parking, The Palm Bar, and outdoor activities. The Terrace – Chef’s Patio, events center, and a mail kiosk are planned for future phases.

    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, 1,300-acre, gated village is a resort ranch hometown featuring 2,800 single-family homes, paired villa retreats and townhomes with a variety of amenities, clubs and hospitality services. The featured homebuilders in Star Farms showcase numerous floorplans to choose from, ranging from approximately 1,500 to over 5,000 square feet with luxury, custom options available. Positioned as the largest master-planned community within the award-winning Lakewood Ranch, Star Farms is minutes from dining, shopping and cultural activities as well as top-rated beaches.

    “Star Farms is a vibrant multigenerational village that offers a diverse range of amenities, designed to enrich the lifestyle of all who call it home,” said Sandy Shahinian, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Lakewood Ranch Communities. “The Palm Bar is yet another example of their unique amenities. It exemplifies our commitment to offer dynamic communities where residents of all ages can thrive.”

    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

    Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Lakewood Ranch is a 55-square-mile, award-winning master-planned community three decades in the making. A family legacy project, the Ranch is known for its innovative design, diverse neighborhoods, and enduring sense of place. It also serves as a major job center for the Sarasota-Manatee region, with thriving business parks, medical hubs, and a growing base of employers. With top-rated schools, miles of trails, expansive parks, and vibrant town centers, Lakewood Ranch offers a dynamic and connected lifestyle for all ages—and has held the distinction of being the nation’s best-selling multigenerational community for seven consecutive years. For more information visit www.lakewoodranch.com.

    About Forestar Group Inc.

    Forestar Group Inc. is a residential lot development company with operations in 65 markets and 24 states. Based in Arlington, Texas, the Company delivered more than 14,300 residential lots during the twelve-month period ended March 31, 2025. Forestar is a majority-owned subsidiary of D.R. Horton, 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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    Contact:

    Katy Walker

    Walker Group

    kwalker@wgcmarketing.com

    (770) 880-3189

    John Cannon Homes Unveils New Award-Winning Collaboration with Visbeen Architects

    Sarasota, FL — May 22, 2025 – John Cannon Homes, the premier luxury custom home builder of Southwest Florida, is proud to announce that acclaimed architect and designer Wayne Visbeen, AIA, IIDA, has officially partnered with the John Cannon Homes team.

    Wayne Visbeen, founder of Visbeen Architects, is renowned nationally for his timeless, innovative designs that seamlessly blend beauty, function, and livability. His addition marks a new era of creativity and architectural excellence for John Cannon Homes, enhancing our ability to deliver inspired custom homes that exceed client expectations.

    “For nearly four decades, John Cannon Homes has been synonymous with craftsmanship, innovation, and client-focused service,” said John Cannon, CEO and President of John Cannon Homes. “Wayne’s extraordinary vision and award-winning designs align perfectly with our commitment to building legacies for generations to come. We’re excited about the future we will create together.”

    Wayne Visbeen brings with him a portfolio of nationally recognized work across luxury residential, resort, and commercial projects. His design philosophy emphasizes highly livable, smart, and beautifully detailed spaces — characteristics that align with John Cannon Homes’ tradition of creating residences that feel distinctly personal yet timeless.

    “I am thrilled to collaborate with John Cannon Homes, a company that shares my passion for delivering exceptional living experiences,” said Wayne Visbeen. “Together, we’ll continue to push the boundaries of custom home design, blending classic elegance with fresh, contemporary ideas for today’s families.”

    Wayne will play a key role in shaping upcoming custom home projects and model designs, bringing new dimensions to John Cannon Homes’ already celebrated portfolio.

    For more information, please visit johncannonhomes.com or contact Amy Brown, Marketing Manager, abrown@johncannonhomes.com | 941.924.5935.


    Wayne Visbeen, AIA, IIDA – Founder of Visbeen Architects and partner on select John Cannon Homes projects.

    Photo courtesy of Visbeen Architects.

    About John Cannon Homes

    John Cannon Homes is Southwest Florida’s premier custom home builder, with nearly four decades of experience designing and building award-winning luxury residences. Since 1987, the company has constructed more than 2,500 custom homes throughout the region’s most prestigious neighborhoods, earning a reputation for timeless design, impeccable craftsmanship, and personalized service. With a portfolio that spans waterfront estates, golf course homes, and expansive countryside retreats, John Cannon Homes has received more than 450 industry awards and has been honored as the Herald-Tribune’s Community Choice Award winner for Best Builder for 34 consecutive years. From concept to completion, John Cannon Homes is committed to making every client’s vision a lasting legacy.