Side of Ranch: Information delivered with style

The Lakewood Ranch Information Center on University re-opened on Friday and it, indeed, is a beautiful thing.

Angie Kaleskas, the center manager, was delighted as she looked around the new facility.

"It is 180-degrees different," Kaleskas said. "They gutted the entire front of the house and created a light, bright space. They have upped our technology. It refreshes our whole outlook."

As a portal into our community, I am sure the renovation was money well-spent.

I’m kind of a dinosaur when it comes to new technology, but the many video screens mounted on the walls appear to be user friendly. They even have a children’s play area so they can stay occupied while mom and dad search for a home.

Even if you live here in the area, it’s worth checking out.

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Couple of notes about fundraisers. Tickets ($150 each) remain available for Dick Vitale’s pediatric cancer fundraiser on Tuesday at Main Street Trattoria. Call 350-0580 or contact through email at [email protected].

The Putts Fore Mutts tournament to benefit the Humane Society is Monday. Although registration has passed, you probably can squeeze into the tournament by calling 941-713-8147 or at [email protected]. The signup fee is $225 and includes cocktail, dinner and golf.

You also might note that a walk-a-thon to benefit the Humane Society is being held today at Gene Witt School at approximately 3:15 p.m. Good time to watch the kids work for a good cause.