Issuu

Connection summer 2025

the

LWRBA UPDATE

A word from the Chair of the Board PG 4

YOUNG LEADERS ALLIANCE

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNERS PG10

5391 Lakewood Ranch Blvd N, Suite 103 Sarasota, FL 34240 info@lwrba.org | 941-757-1664 | www.lwrba.org

CELEBRATING New Members PG 7 15+ Year Members PG 9 Ribbon Cuttings PG 13

ON THE CALENDAR Upcoming Events PG 20

BUILDING

EXCITEMENT

HOSPITAL EXPANSION IS UNDERWAY What to Expect • Increased patient bed capacity to 240 • Expansion of complex cardiology, higher acuity neurological services, lab, pharmacy and pre-admission testing • Contemporary patient-centric design features • Universal designs for the pivoting of rooms to accommodate patient needs in real time

This is an exciting time of growth for our community. Projected completion of

the first phase of the five-story, 170,000

square foot patient bed tower addition to Lakewood Ranch Medical Center

is expected in December 2025. We’re dedicated to offering easy access to

advanced, quality and compassionate healthcare services close to home.

Watch us grow at lwrmc.com/expansion

The Orthopaedic Spine and Joint Center

8330 Lakewood Ranch Boulevard Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202

Physicians are on the medical staff of Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Lakewood Ranch Medical Center. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website. 242844195-2901452 2/25

the connection // summer 2025

IN THIS ISSUE

LWRBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

04//A Note from Our Chair

Julie Fanning | Chair of the Board

An Update from Julie Fanning

Benderson Development

David Otterness | Past Chair

04// LWRBA Update

Willis Smith Construction

07//Members in the News

Nick Feather | Deputy Chair

A Note from Brittany Lamont

Take a Look at What our Members are up to

07// Welcome New Members The Newest Additions to the Allaince

09// Meet Our Board Meet two of our Board Members

10// YLA Next Gen Awards Celebrating the YLA Next Gen Winners

11// Young Leaders Alliance Upcoming Events for Young Professionals

13// Ribbon Cuttings

Congratulations to These Businesses!

18// Say Cheese Check out these Photos

20// On the Calendar Upcoming Alliance Events

22// Thank You

A Thank You to our Sponsors

Wayne Parrish | Incoming Chair RITE Technology

Capstan Financial Consulting Group

Dianne Kopczynski | Treasurer Mauldin & Jenkins

Kevin Cooper | Secretary

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

the connection // summer 2025

THE SUMMER SEASON IS HERE! As we step into the summer months, the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance continues to build on the momentum of this special 20th anniversary year. While this season is often a time to relax and recharge, the work of the Alliance remains in full swing. Julie Fanning Chair of the Board Our Board of Directors is actively advancing key initiatives that support our mission to connect, support and champion the business community in our region.

One of the most important contributors to that success is you our members. Your ideas, input and ongoing engagement are what shape the future of this organization for the next 20 years and beyond. Whether you’re offering a fresh perspective, identifying a challenge, or sharing a new idea, your voice plays a vital role in guiding what comes next. I’d also like to express my heartfelt appreciation to our outstanding Alliance staff. Their passion and dedication continue to move us forward—from planning sold-out events and launching innovative programs like our new Small Business Bootcamp, to serving as a strong voice for the business community on key issues. Their work ensures that we continue delivering meaningful value to our members. I wish you a relaxing and enjoyable summer. Whether you’re traveling or enjoying all that our vibrant region has to offer, I encourage you to stay connected with us on social media. And don’t forget to tag us in your summer adventures – we’d love to see what you’re up to and keep the connection going all season long!

LWRBA STAFF Brittany Lamont President & CEO | BrittanyLamont@lwrba.org

Janeth Gonzalez

Events & Programs Manager | JanethGonzalez@lwrba.org

Tim Estep

Membership Devlopment Manager | TimEstep@lwrba.org

Lisa Beckett

Executive Assitant | LisaBeckett@lwrba.org

Carolyn Rauhala

SUMMER CLEAN-UP TIPS TO ENHANCE YOUR ENGAGEMENT

Brittany Lamont President/CEO

Happy Summer, Everyone! Can you believe how fast summer is flying by? It’s hard to imagine the kids will be heading back to school next month! While we hope you’re enjoying some well-deserved downtime, we’re already gearing up for a busy and exciting fall season.

At the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance, we love to connect our members, and one of the best ways we do that is by offering a wide range of opportunities for you to build relationships through our events and committees. There are many ways you can get involved, so here are five quick tips to help boost your engagement and get the most out of your membership: 1. Update Your Profile Let’s make sure we have your most current contact information, business details, and the names of any employees who want to get involved. This ensures you’re easily found in our directory and helps you stay in the loop. 2. Join a Committee This is one of the best ways to build deeper connections within the Alliance. Whether you’re interested in Events & Programming, the Young Leaders Alliance, or something else, there’s a place for everyone. 3. Volunteer with Friends and Family Alliance Gives Back returns October 2-4! It’s a great opportunity to give back to the community by volunteering with over 30 local nonprofit organizations. Rally your coworkers, friends, and family for a meaningful experience. Can’t volunteer? Keep an eye out for other ways to participate. 4. Explore Our Fall Lineup We’ve got an exciting calendar of events coming your way this fall from Hob Nob and Sandies, to luncheons and after-hours. There’s something for every interest and schedule. 5. Reach Out for Help Have questions about your membership? Don’t hesitate to contact us anytime, we’re happy to help you make the most of your Alliance experience.

Membership Engagement Coordinator | CarolynRauhala@lwrba.org Here’s to finishing summer strong and starting fall

Johnny Robinson

Interim Communications Coordinator / Intern | Intern@lwrba.org

the connection // summer 2025

even stronger!

OVER 50 YEARS OF BUILDING LANDMARKS.

FOLLOW US! Join Willis Smith on social media for a behind-the-scenes look at creating community landmarks. 941.366.3116 | WillisSmith.com | CGC-034192

Do You Know the CURRENT MARKET VALUE of Your Property?

It’s Critical

to have the right help if you are considering making a move! Between hurricanes and the new Florida Condo law, it might just be time. The May Group’s real estate track record and diverse business experience allows you to put your trust in us. We are committed to you and to what YOU want. Make your Best Move... Call us Today!

Christy May Broker Associate REALTOR Residential Community Commercial

CID • CIM • IRES • GRI • International Call or Text 781-258-6022 Christy.May@cbrealty.com

Rebecca Dalton

Call or Text 941-702-1300 Rebecca.Dalton@cbrealty.com

Lorraine DuVall Luxury and Development

Learn More 941-462-4060

ChristyMayRE.com MayGroupRE.com

Coldwell Banker Downtown Office 100 North Tamiami Tr. Sarasota, FL 34236 Owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Real Estate Inc. the connection // summer 2025

439973-1

Call or Text 941-402-6621 Lorraine.DuVall@cbrealty.com

Need Childcare?

We can help

The Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County, known as the ELC, is a nonprofit that connects you, your employees, and all area families with high-quality childcare. Let us take the stress out of your search!

Financial assistance

FROM THE PREHISTORIC TO THE PRESENT, THERE’S SOMETHING HERE FOR EVERYONE!

t! Plan your visi DISCOVER THE BISHOP! 201 10 th Street West • Bradenton, FL 34205 941-746-4131 • BishopScience.org

free Preschool for 4-year-olds

Find High-Quality Care

Customized Childcare listings

Experience a taste of Amish Country right here in Sarasota. Just minutes from the area’s top beaches and a short walk from Pinecraft, our hidden gem offers renowned flavors, delightful shopping, and unique accommodations. Enjoy the peace, comfort, and wholesome values of home while savoring delicious treats from our bakery. It’s truly the best of both worlds!

elcsarasota.org 3713 Bahia Vista Street, Sarasota, FL 34232 | 941-955-8007 Sponsored by the Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County, the State of Florida and the Florida Department of Education’s Division of Early Learning

DerDutchmanSarasota.com

the connection // summer 2025

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS Groundbreaking for Project 24 Climbing took place June 5 at Sarasota Center Blvd, marking a major milestone in launching the 19,000 sq ft gym with bouldering, rope walls, fitness, adaptive-climbing, sauna, coworking & more. Carlisle Inn Sarasota received Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award for the second consecutive year on May 12, 2025, ranking in the top 10% globally for outstanding guest reviews. The 100-room inn blends modern comfort with traditional charm in Pinecraft’s Amish community. Bad Ass Coffee - Longtime friends Michael Miller and Dan Slavin introduced this Hawaiian-born café on University Parkway. Featuring bold Kona brews, creative lattes, island-style bites, and a community-first atmosphere.

Fast-casual wellness eatery Flower Child opened at Center Point at Waterside, offering customizable, made-from-scratch bowls, wraps, salads for vegetarian, vegan, paleo and glutenfree lifestyles in a bright 3,500 sq ft space.

Mauldin & Jenkins climbed three spots to rank No. 65 on Accounting Today’s 2025 Top 100 Firms list, reflecting notable growth and leadership in assurance, tax, consulting, and advisory services.

Celebrating its 15th anniversary, Da Mimmo Tours, a woman-owned, family-run boutique tour operator crafts exclusive small-group luxury experiences across Italy. Mary Ann and son Mimmo personally escort trips, ensuring immersive, high-touch itineraries. Lakewood Ranch Medical Center’s new CEO Rob Anderson—veteran Texas healthcare executive—became CEO April 21. He’s steering a $120 M, five-story, 170,000 sq ft patient tower (60 beds opening 2026, full completion in 18 months) amid expansion and community care

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS!

Please help us in welcoming the newest additions to our Alliance family of businesses 1-Tom-Plumber of Sarasota 9th Wonder Financial Ameris Bank Anntoine Marketing + Design Berkshire Hathaway Florida Realty Brolly Risk Management Cabex Construction Design, Build & Remodel CEO Nexus CFO Sense LLC Central Staff Services Inc Cruise Planners Gayle Fortin Crosby Counseling Center Fox Restaurant Concepts Graef-USA Inc. GulfTech Heritage Financial Consultants Homeworx Professional Services, LLC Hope Fleet La Beauté Aesthetics & Wellness Leadership Performance Group

Liberty Savings Bank L.L.Bean PERC Project Paratrooper PuroClean of Bradenton PuroClean of Lakewood Ranch & Siesta Key SaraBay Real Estate Inc. Sarasota Sports Medicine Shred-it Southwest Florida IT (SWFIT) Sprinkles Sunrise Irrigation & Sprinklers - Executive Supporting Strategies Taylor English Duma, LLP The Aesthetics Lounge & Spa The Michael G. Curran Family Foundation The Salvation Army of Manatee County The Thrivery University Animal Clinic Window Gang of Sarasota

Interested in becoming a member? Contact: TimEstep@LWRBA.org

the connection // summer 2025

All American Heating & Cooling is growing. So is Gulfside Bank. At Gulfside Bank, our clients work with local bankers who know them and are familiar with their needs. “Gary Houseworth knows our business well, and my financial team can count on him to be there when we need his help.” — Curtis Miccichi, All American Heating & Cooling

“Not only that,” adds Miccichi, “with the opening of their new Fruitville East financial center, Gulfside Bank is super convenient for businesses located east of I-75.”

Come grow with Gulfside.

Live here. Bank here. Downtown 333 N. Orange Avenue | Sarasota, FL 34236 | (941) 303-4200 Fruitville East 2870 Height St. | Sarasota, FL 34240 | (941) 313-8123 gulfsidebank.com 8 the connection // summer 2025

THANK YOU

15+ YEAR MEMBERS

Asolo Repertory Theatre Boyd Insurance & Investments Carr, Riggs & Ingram Cool Today Easterseals Southwest Florida Family Office Services FCCI Insurance Group Gold Coast Eagle Distributors Hancock Whitney Bank Hembree & Associates Herald-Tribune/LocaliQ Horizon Wealth Advisors Ian Black Real Estate J.E. Charlotte Construction

Kerkering, Barberio & Co Lakewood Financial Services, Inc. Lakewood Ranch Communities Najmy Thompson Neal Communities Observer Media Group Pro-Motion Notions Raymond James & Associates Roofing by Curry Tropex United Way Suncoast Vanessa Fine Jewelry Wessel Construction

MEET OUR BOARD Chris Williams Managing Director Aginto Community Engagement Chair

Zoe Kasper Marketing Director Sunshine Movers YLA Chair WHERE IS YOUR HOMETOWN?

Plainfield, IL

WHAT’S A FUN FACT ABOUT YOU?

I can name all of the presidents in order from first to last. WHAT’S THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE RECEIVED?

The best advice I’ve ever received is to never stop learning and always strive to grow. If you’re the smartest person in the room, it’s time to find a new room because growth happens when you’re surrounded by people who challenge and inspire you to be better.

WHERE IS YOUR HOMETOWN?

Cincinnati, OH

WHAT’S A FUN FACT ABOUT YOU?

I’ve delivered Thanksgiving dinners to hundreds of familes each year since 2013, all from the trunk of my car. It’s my favorite day of my year. WHAT’S THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE RECEIVED?

If you’re having success as an entrepreneur, it’s partly because the community is supporting you. So, it’s incumbent upon us to give back and support that same community. the connection // summer 2025

The YLA Next Gen Awards brought together the Lakewood Ranch community to celebrate the outstanding achievements of young professionals making a lasting impact in the region. The event highlighted individuals who have demonstrated excellence, leadership, and a strong commitment to both their careers and the community. Honorees were recognized for striving toward the highest levels of personal and professional accomplishment. These emerging leaders are forging new paths in their industries, inspiring others, and serving as role models for the next generation of talent in Lakewood Ranch. Hosted by the Young Leaders Alliance (YLA), a sub group of the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance, the event underscored the importance of empowering young professionals through meaningful connection and support. YLA offers a platform for growth, service, and authentic relationship-building for young professionals 21-40. With a mission to increase professional competency, give back to the community, and build lasting relationships, the Young Leaders Alliance continues to harness the Power of Connection—cultivating a vibrant and engaged network of future leaders.

the connection // summer 2025

CELEBRATING THE WINNERS

Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders with the Power of Connection

EMERGING LEADER

Paige Venuto Lakewood Ranch Community Activities

The Emerging Leader award recognizes a young professional with less than three years in their career, who is already making significant professional contributions and demonstrates the fundamental aspects of leadership, innovation, and excellence within our community.

YOUNG LEADERS ALLIANCE UPCOMING EVENTS

CONNECTING CHAMPION The Connecting Champion award is presented to a member who embodies “The Power of Connection” by connecting members with each other and provides referrals of future opportunities.

Jordan Sebastiano Sara Bay Real Estate

COMMUNITY IMPACT

Keiondra Marshall Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium

The Community Impact award recognizes a young professional who has shown strong support of the community and the Young Leaders Alliance. They have humbly served our community with their outreach and exemplified “service above self.”

Calling all young professionals! The Young Leaders Alliance (YLA) membership is included for all LWRBA members under 40, for no additional fee. The YLA is an extension of the Alliance whose mission is to empower and equip young professionals and build authentic relationships, by harnessing the Power of Connection Check out some upcoming events and join the YLA today at www.LWRBA.org/join-YLA

YLA MEMBER OF THE YEAR The YLA Member of the Year award is given to a dedicated member, who is always ready to give and is the first person to raise their hand when help is needed. This young professional has shown extraordinary dedication and commitment to the Young Leaders Alliance and its mission throughout the last year.

Nicole Hackel Lakewood Ranch Communities

NEXT GEN

Blake Fitzpatrick

The Next Gen award pays tribute to a young professional holding a leadership role within their company or running their own company, who takes control and embraces leadership, provides guidance, advice and a positive direction for others.

Networking Social at Tweeds Thursday, July 17th 5:30-7:30PM Networking Social Thursday, August 21st 5:30-7:30PM Networking Social Thursday, September 18th 5:30-7:30PM

Sunshine Movers

the connection // summer 2025

Educational child care for ages 6 weeks - 12 years

941.200.4250 | 7218 55th Ave. East, Bradenton, FL 34203 INFANTS - PRESCHOOL We offer Infant, Toddler, Beginner, Early Preschool and Preschool programs for ages 6 weeks to 4 years of age.

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS After Care School programs for grades K-6. We will drop your child off to their school & pick them up after school (including early dismissal).

VPK Our VPK and Frogstreet curriculum will prepare your child with the skills needed for success! Our teachers provide your child with an active & engaging curriculum each day! Child must turn 4 before 9/1/24. Classes start August 11!

SCHOOL AGE PROGRAMS Holiday Breaks: Winter, Spring, Single Day Holiday

JR VPK Call and schedule a tour today to learn about this newly designed to mirror VPK for children that miss the VPK cutoff.

SUMMER CAMP (MAY-AUGUST) 10 week camp with a different theme each week Field Trips 3 meals provided PROPRIETARY CONNECTIONS CURRICULUM

SCHOOL YEAR BEGINS AUGUST 2025

BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS

Enroll Today!

CHILDREN AND FAMILY EVENTS COMMERCIAL KITCHEN PROCARE, PARENT ENGAGEMENT APP EARLY LEARNING ASSESSMENTS

Additional Extra Curriculum Activities We Offer:

@Discovery12oaks

@DiscoveryPointTwelveOaks 12

the connection // summer 2025

@discovery_point_twelve_oaks

ARE YOU HIRING?

RIBBON CUTTINGS

As a member of the Lakewood Ranch Business

Congratulations to the following businesses on their recent ribbon cuttings!

Do you have a position to fill? We want to help!

CELEBRATING NEW BUSINESSES

Alliance, you have acess to a myriad of benefits to help grow your business. The LWRBA Job Board is one of them and an excellent way to grow your team, just follow these six easy steps

1. Head to www.LWRBA.org 2. In the top menu click, “Business Tools” 3. In the drop down menu hover over, “Job Board”

C’est La Vie | 9118 Town Center Pkwy Ste 102

and click, “Post a Position”

4. Log in to your member portal 5. At the top right click the green “Add” button 6. Fill in the information

ADVERTISE IN THE CONNECTION MAGAZINE

L.L. Bean | 1111 N Cattlemen Rd

The Aesthetics Lounge and Spa 9130 Town Center Pkwy Ste 101

Stand out amongst the crowd and increase visibility for your business by advertsing in our quarterly magazine! Check out these quick stats! • • •

3,000 copies delivered to various businesses across the Lakewood Ranch Region! Distributed at Alliance events.

The Wellness Space | 1561 Lakefront Dr Ste 208

Delivered digitally on social media and through our eblasts. That means thousands of eyes on your ad! University Animal Clinic | 7250 Canon St

Questions?

MEMBER TIP

Email timestep@LWRBA.org for more information on advertising in The Connection Magazine

New, renovated or relocated business? Let us celebrate with you! For more info visit: www.LWRBA.org/ribbon-cuttings the connection // summer 2025 13

Your Message. Our Readers.

Endless Opportunities. WE ARE MAIN STREET, NOT MAINSTREAM

Each week, the Observer Media Group delivers 100% local newsproduced by journalists who live in and understand the Sarasota and Manatee communities. Our loyal readers turn to us for trusted coverage of the places they live, work, and play. With daily updates on YourObserver.com and engaging weekly features in our print editions, we keep our audience informed and inspired.

If you’re doing business in Sarasota or Manatee, maximize your visibility with the Observer Media Groupyour partner in a trusted, hyperlocal media environment.

PRINT. ONLINE. SOCIAL. APP. Connecting Advertisers to Sarasota/Manatee and Beyond!

Call your multimedia executive today! 941.366-3468 | advertise@yourobserver.com 1970 Main Street, Floor 3 | Sarasota, FL 34236

the connection // summer 2025

XNLV22934

MUCH MORE THAN

INK

ON PAPER

1839 61ST STREET • SARASOTA, FL 34243 • 941-366-0755 CAI – Community Association Institute

Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance

SAGE Promotional Products

Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce

Xerox Premier Partner

The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce

MEMBER 2 MEMBER DISCOUNTS This program encourages our members to choose other member organizations when making purchasing decisions. It’s a great way to attract customers, build relationships, save money and strengthen our local economy. There are currently over 750 LWRBA members to connect with. The result is significant purchasing power that can positively impact your business. in. If you haven’t, create your username 1. Log and password at, www.lwrba.org/login the home page, select the Membership 2. On dropdown at the top 3. Click the green plus sign in the top right corner out the required information and a staff 4. Fill member will approve it QUESTIONS? Contact Our Membership Services Coordinator, CarolynRauhala@lwrba.org

the connection // summer 2025 15

Emergency Care That’s Always There Sarasota Memorial ER at Lakewood Ranch is

When emergency strikes, every moment matters. With this latest addition to the Sarasota Memorial Health Care System, you and your loved ones can sleep easier knowing that the doctor is in – and just around the corner. • 21 Exam Rooms

• Full Service Laboratory

• X-ray, MRI, CT, and Ultrasound Imaging • Board-Certified Emergency Medicine Physicians Available 24/7 • Direct Admission to Sarasota Memorial Hospital or hospital of your choice, if needed

Laboratory and imaging services available Walk-Ins Welcome

Sarasota Memorial ER at Lakewood Ranch 7250 University Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34240

(941) 262-3000 • smh.com/er 16

the connection // summer 2025

OPEN 24 HRS A DAY 7 DAYS A WEEK

LWRBA UPDATE

MEET JOHNNY ROBINSON Johnny Robinson Intern/Interim Communications Coordinator The Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance is excited to welcome back our intern, Johnny Robinson! Now in his fourth summer with the Alliance, Johnny has taken on a larger role as our Interim Communications Coordinator. He supports marketing initiatives, event promotion, and member engagement with creativity and enthusiasm. Known for streamlining processes and solving problems efficiently, he’s a valued part of our team. A Sarasota native and Out-of-Door Academy alum, Johnny is entering his junior year at Florida State University, where he studies Commercial Entrepreneurship. Outside of work, he enjoys scuba diving, traveling, and the arts. Welcome back, Johnny!

UPDATE YOUR PROFILE Updating your Member Portal is vital to populate your member directory listing! Here are a few steps to get you started; 1. After creating your profile and setting up a password, log in! 2.Once you’ve logged in, you’ll be directed to your member portal. 3.Click, the My Info’ tab and update your bio with information about you, your business and how you can help people in our community!

the connection // summer 2025 17

SAY CHEESE

The Alliance continues the year with a bang! We strengthened connections at our monthly luncheons and networking socials while diving into an exciting season of events like our Annual Block Party. Take a look at the highlights below, and be sure to stay tuned for what’s coming next! > Find us on Facebook and Instagram for more photos from all of our events.

the connection // summer 2025

Member FDIC

Bryan Boudreaux

Senior Vice President, Manatee Market Director

Amy Stumbo

Service Assistant Manager, Lakewood Ranch

Invested in you. Staffed with bankers who have deep roots in the Sarasota and Manatee market, our bank’s focus for 40 years has been to serve owner-managed businesses, professional firms and families that want a strong, local connection with their bank and banker. Come grow with us.

941-248-1830 thebankoftampa.com

10650 BOARDWALK LOOP I LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL 34202

the connection // summer 2025 19

SAVE THE DATE

ON THE CALENDAR Networking Social at Bad Ass Coffee Wednesday, July 9th | 8:00-9:30AM Small Business Bootcamp at LWRBA Office July 10th, July 17th and Jule 24th | 7:30-9:00AM Lunch with Ranchers at Waterlefe Golf Club Tuesday, July 15th | 11:30AM-1:00PM

October 2, 3 & 4

Breakfast Program with SHRM Sarasota at Carlisle Inn Wednesday, July 30th | 8:30-10:15AM

lliance Gives Back, a volunteer initaitive led by the LWRBA’s Community Engagement Committee, is celebrating its 8th year of impact. Non-profit Alliance members have the opportunity to submit projects for us to match with member businesses who have interest in volunteering. Grab your colleagues, friends and family for a fun day of volunteering for your favorite causes.

Networking Social at Town Square University Parkway Wednesday, August 6th | 5:00-7:00PM

Unable to volunteer in person? Look out for communications on other ways you can give back.

Luncheon at Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club Wednesday, August 27th | 11:30AM-1:00PM

Sponsorships Available: Contact: Janethgonzalez@lwrba.org

Networking Social at OFDC Commercial Interiors Wednesday, September | 3rd 5:00-7:00PM

Breakfast with Ranchers Thursday, August 7th | 11:30AM-1:00PM Lunch with Ranchers Tuesday, August 19th | 11:30AM-1:00PM

Lunch with Ranchers Tuesday, September 9th | 11:30AM-1:00PM Luncheon at Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club Wednesday, September 24th | 11:30AM-1:00PM

2025 ANNUAL SIGNATURE EVENTS Save the date for our biggest events of the year

8th Annual Alliance Gives Back October 2 through October 4 36th Annual Hob Nob Wednesday, October 29 Sandies Members Choice Awards Friday, November 14 20 the connection // summer 2025

Program Starts: August 15th 8:30am-12:00pm

Leaders know that the learning process is not about changing who you are, it’s about growing who you are. The LWRBA Leadership Academy is a results-oriented, six-phase leadership building experience that will equip you with the tools to continue to develop both personally and professionally. The vital executive skills and supportive professional network you’ll gain in this course will set you apart, giving your workforce a powerful leader-by-example to guide them in the “great return” back to the office and into the future of work.

Training Themes: Module 1: Communicate to Build Connection Module 2: Protect Your Personal and Professional Brand Module 3: Embrace Health & Well-being Module 4: Inspire Authentic Culture Module 5: Develop and Retain Talent Module 6: Lead By Example

the connection // summer 2025 21

THANK YOU SPONSORS PRESIDENTIAL

EXECUTIVE

CORPORATE Community Foundation of Sarasota County

ME&S General Contractors

Fawley Bryant Architecture

Plunkett Raysich Architects

Florida Power & Light

Robert Toale & Sons Celebration of Life Center at LWR

Gold Coast Eagle Distributing Gulf Coast Community Foundation Gulfside Bank

Schenkel & Shultz, Inc. SouthState Bank

HCA Florida Healthcare

Tandem Construction

Icard, Merrill Attorneys & Counselors

The Mall at UTC

Jessica Guadagno Photography

University of South Florida

ASSOCIATE Baacke Insurance & Financial Services

Liberty Savings Bank

Buffalo Lodging

L.L.Bean

Carr, Riggs & Ingram

Publix Super Markets, Inc.

Coastal Orthopedics Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County

Sarasota County Government Shepherd Insurance Spirit Movers

Fifth Third Bank

State College of Florida

First Horizon Bank

Stoneforge Consulting Group

FirstService Residential Goodwill Manasota Ian Black Real Estate J.P. Morgan Private Bank

Synovus Bank Tropex Wagner Realty

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6/13/25 3:19 PM

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SCF CODING