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LWR Life

Charlie Hunsicker has worked on a variety of environemental projects for Manatee County, including overseeing the parks department since 2014.
    By
  • Jay Heater
  • August 20, 2020
Relentless – with Heart

Lakewood Ranch’s Charlie Hunsicker has been pushing for better Manatee County parks and natural resources for more than 40 years.

  • LWR Life
    By
  • Harry Sayer
  • August 20, 2020
Style: Keeping It Cool

Fall in Florida is a far cry from leaves and crisp temperatures. Use these insulated drinkware options to keep your beverages — and yourself — cool and sweat-free.

  • LWR Life
Rebecca Blitz, who became SMART’s executive director in April, says restricted funding is currently one of the nonprofit’s biggest challenges.
    By
  • Randi Donahue
  • August 20, 2020
Charity Snapshot: Bridling the Challenge

SMART’s new executive director took the reins with a clear plan for the organization. Then the pandemic hit.

  • LWR Life
MVP Sports and Social Co-Founder Chris McComas putts at Esplanade at Azario Lakewood Ranch. The golf league is among MVP’s new offerings.
    By
  • Ryan Kohn
  • August 20, 2020
Play On

After going virtual during the pandemic, MVP Sports seeks out new — and safe — opportunities to get people engaging in activities in-person again.

  • LWR Life
Elliot DeBear says he always liked art but didn’t pursue it until 2018, when he could no longer play golf after a leg amputation.
    By
  • Jay Heater
  • August 20, 2020
Class Act: Artist of Note

Lakewood Ranch painter lets smooth blues and jazz inspire his abstract work.

  • LWR Life
Chris Tomasso was named First Watch CEO in early 2018 and has been an executive with the company since 2006.
    By
  • Mark Gordon
  • August 20, 2020
Better with Bacon

Breakfast and brunch is a tasty, and big, business. A national leader in the industry has called the region home for nearly 35 years — and now it’s growing at a rapid-fire rate.

  • LWR Life
Lakewood Ranch’s Jenn Lockwood and other players of virtual cornhole use two cameras to showcase their turn. One camera focuses on the throw, and the other focuses on where the beanbag lands.
    By
  • Pam Eubanks
  • May 21, 2020
Calendar: Virtually Social

When the coronavirus outbreak canceled events, LWR Communities got to work to keep the community connected online.

  • LWR Life
    By
  • Harry Sayer
  • May 21, 2020
Style: Comfort Clothes

The new dress code? We’re not sure, but one thing we do know: Athletic clothes aren’t just for working out anymore.

  • LWR Life
Katherine Benoit started making masks before she realized isolation gowns would be more prudent.
    By
  • Ryan Kohn
  • May 21, 2020
Class Act: Threads of Hope

When Katherine Benoit saw a need for PPE in the community, she jumped into action — and brought others along with her.

  • LWR Life
Meals on Wheels Plus staff member Terri Hill stacks cans of tomatoes. The organization is asking for all types of foods as donations, but especially nonperishables.
    By
  • Ryan Kohn
  • May 21, 2020
Charity Snapshot: More Than a Meal

As Meals on Wheels Plus continues its services amid a pandemic, it relies on efficiency and the generosity of the community.

  • LWR Life
Alexander enjoys helping make buckeyes, peanut butter balls dipped in chocolate, though he oddly enough doesn’t eat them when they’re done.
    By
  • Columnist .
  • May 21, 2020
The Jolly Rancher: Happy Making Pies

Ranch Dad gives us insight into his passion for making pies with his son and his dream of owning a pie shop in retirement.

  • LWR Life
    By
  • Su Byron
  • May 21, 2020
Art and About: Binging on Books

Give your brain a break from screens by reading. Whether you want to travel the world from your living room or learn about history or cooking, there’s a book for you.

  • LWR Life
    By
  • Jay Heater
  • May 21, 2020
Haven: On Display

Modern-day custom closets shift from a place of storage to a living space.

  • LWR Life
All ages can delight in the hunt for shark teeth and fossils. Find spots that offer a loose graveling bottom,
    By
  • Randi Donahue
  • May 21, 2020
Paddling in Peace

Think Gulf Coast beaches are your only waterfront respite? Think again. Take a quick drive east for a trip back in time, and experience the unspoiled Florida wilderness along the waters of Peace River.

  • LWR Life
Hickory Hollow
    By
  • Shellie Terry
  • May 21, 2020
Smokin' Summer Spots

LWR Life contributor Shellie Terry shares the secrets to finding the best barbecue in town.

  • LWR Life
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