The Bridge Magazine - October 2020

THE GREATER SARASOTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBER MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2020

BRIDGE The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce

CONNECT

SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS PAGES 8 & 9

BOARD OF DIRECTORS UPDATE

PAGE 4 & 5

SARASOTACHAMBER.COM

PROMOTE

SUPPORT

WHAT’S NEW IN MEMBERSHIP

PAGES 12 & 13

LEADERSHIP SARASOTA PAGES 16 & 17

FROM THE CEO’S CORNER

CHANGING OF THE SEASONS Fall is officially here! With the changing of the seasons, it is the perfect time to reflect on 2020 so far. We know that these times have been hard – truthfully, more than hard. We have all been challenged emotionally, mentally, financially, and beyond. We have faced differing opinions, fear, and more obstacles than any of us planned for. Yet we have also witnessed incredible strength, kindness, and an uprising of community pride. During this time, your Chamber has been a reliable and trusted source of information, delivering access to leaders and decision makers, and we’ve been a catalyst for actionsharing information that supports all of you , our businesses, doing what we can to move commerce forward. Our mission has been and will continue to be to cultivate our community’s prosperity and quality of life through business-focused leadership and action.

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This year, our leader and Chair of the Board, Paul Caragiulo had a tall agenda: leading though a global pandemic and making decisions to assist in providing leadership, service, and resources to the business community. It has been a true joy to get to know and work with Paul. His boots-on-the-ground knowledge of running a business and wisdom from years of public service experience served our Chamber well. Thank you, Paul, for your time, energy and passion that was always on tap for the Chamber.

We are truly grateful for your many years of service and your continued leadership.

community. It is an honor and privilege to get to work with such a first-class group of individuals.

The Chamber’s new fiscal year began on October 1st, and as we move forward, you can count on us to continue to work for business in the Sarasota region. We have a long history, in fact 100 years, of doing just that. We plan to continue to be an economic engine and represent, advocate and work tirelessly for our members and the business community in 2021.

I would also like to thank our amazing Chamber team and staff. It has been a tough year for everyone, but the staff here at the Chamber rose to the occasion and adapted to the new normal in ways that allowed us to continuing serving the businesses in our

October 2020 • GREATER SARASOTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBER MAGAZINE

HEATHER KASTEN CEO/PRESIDENT

EVENTS C H A M B E R S TA F F Heather Kasten

President/CEO hkasten@sarasotachamber.com (941) 556-4050

Your Chamber is meeting you where you’re at. We are offering our members both in-person events with safety protocols in place as well as virtual events held on Zoom.

Check out the upcoming events below, and visit sarasotachamber.com for more information.

Brittany Lamont

Vice President blamont@sarasotachamber.com (941) 556-4040

POWER

Mireya Eavey

Executive Vice President of CareerEdge meavey@sarasotachamber.com (941) 556-4045

Caitlin Bolton

Communications Coordinator cbolton@sarasotachamber.com (941) 556-4046

Shauna Donahue

CareerEdge Program Manager sdonahue@sarasotachamber.com (941) 556-4038

Craig McGonigal

Membership Engagement Manager cmcgonigal@sarasotachamber.com (941) 556-4034

VIRTUAL SHUMAKER CHAMBER UNIVERSITY Wednesday, October 21 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.

Grow With Purpose: Building and Executing A Strategic Plan in 2021

HOUR

Lunch

IN-PERSON POWER HOUR LUNCH Wednesday, October 14 11:45 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Palm Aire Country Club Tuesday, November 10 11:45 a.m. - 1p.m.

Embassy Suites Sarasota

IN-PERSON TRUSTEE LUNCH Thursday, October 22 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Capital Grille IN-PERSON TRUSTEE BREAKFAST

IN-PERSON GOOD MORNING SARASOTA

Kelly Monti

Events Coordinator kmonti@sarasotachamber.com (941) 556-4035

Sara Rachon

Programs Manager srachon@sarasotachamber.com (941) 556-4039

Kathryn Whalen

CE Programs Coordinator kwhalen@sarasotachamber.com (941) 556-4036

Tuesday, October 27 7:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.

Carlisle Inn

Tuesday, November 10 7:30 a.m. - 9 a.m.

Carlisle Inn *Please note that Trustee Events are open to all Corporate Trustees, Community Builders, Economic Drivers, and Chamber Champions.

THANK YOU CHAMBER CHAMPIONS

SERVING OUR BUSINESSES AND COMMUNITY The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce works to cultivate Sarasota’s prosperity and quality of life through our member businesses.​ P: (941) 955-8187 | F: (941) 366-5621 MAGAZINE DESIGN BY CAITLIN BOLTON, COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

GREATER SARASOTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBER MAGAZINE

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS FROM THE CHAIR’S CORNER

It has indeed been my privilege to serve as your Chamber Chair this past year and as a Board member for the last six years - four years as the Sarasota County Government representative and two representing our family business, Caragiulos Italian – American, now entering its 32nd year in our community. Every year, one thought comes to my mind: our Chamber of Commerce is a fantastic organization, filled with the most talented and committed people who all care deeply for our community.

As you all know, 2020 has been quite a challenge.

Sarasota, like the rest of the world has been under siege by a devastating pandemic, one that has shaken society to its core and brought commerce to its knees. In times like this it is always the human element that determines outcomes.

People rule the day and if you have a group of outstanding individuals you can weather nearly anything. I am extremely proud of how our Chamber has performed in this crisis, by not just supporting our members but by supporting our community at large. For this, our

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outstanding President, Heather Kasten, and her team are to be commended for their exceptional performance and commitment.

Even amidst a pandemic, the Chamber was able to accomplish some noteworthy action items this year. The Chamber completed a construction project that made our building more user friendly to our members and staff. On our website, we launched a series of podcasts on important regional topics like transportation, affordable housing and water quality- these issues continue to be a focus of our Chamber moving forward. We also partnered with our sister organizations across the region to work together on projects that benefit businesses and the greater Sarasota-Manatee community.

I wish to thank my family for allowing me the opportunity to continue to serve this community, for that I am grateful. Truth be told, I am one of the most fortunate people that one could ever meet.

In closing, I wish our next Chair, Dr. Larry Thompson of Ringling College, the best. Larry is a committed leader with many talents and above all a genuine love and affection for this community. I know he will serve our organization well.

PAUL CARAGIULO CHAIR OF THE BOARD

October 2020 • GREATER SARASOTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBER MAGAZINE

2020 - 2021 Board of Directors CHAIR | LARRY THOMPSON Ringling College of Art and Design CHAIR-ELECT | DENNIS MURPHY Gulfside Bank

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IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR | PAUL CARAGIULO Caragiulos Italian-American Restaurant CHAMBER PRESIDENT | HEATHER KASTEN

Thank You For Your Service Thank you to the following Board members for their service and support of our Chamber!

Richard Bedford REAL Consulting

Charlie Bailey Williams, Parker, Harrison, Dietz & Getzen

Teri A. Hansen Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation

Mark Pritchett Gulf Coast Community Foundation

Nathan Bailey SouthTech

Joe C. Hembree Hembree & Associates, Inc.

Dr. Carol Probstfeld State College of Florida

Jeff Benninghoff WWSB ABC 7 Kirk Boylston Lakewood Ranch Commercial

Jennifer Compton Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, LLP

Matt Brockway Icard, Merrill, Cullis, Timm, Furen & Ginsburg, PA

Andrew Dorr Githler Development

Stacey Crawford Capstan Financial

Beth Ebersole Kerkering, Barberio & Co.

Dr. Michael Crosby Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Steven High The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art Dr. Donal O’Shea New College of Florida Myron Robinson Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce Board Renee Ryckman Escape Countdown

Ernest F. DuBose II DuCon Construction Dan DeLeo Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, LLP Camila Fermin STAR Student Christopher Gallagher Hoyt Architects

Joe Seidensticker Tableseide Restaurant Group Richard S. Webb, IV Icard, Merrill, Cullis, Timm, Furen & Ginsburg

Jennifer Grondahl Baltimore Orioles Andy Guz Lakewood Ranch Medical Center

Dr. Kameron Hodgens The Glasser/ Schoenbaum Human Services Center Dr. Karen Holbrook University of South Florida Stacia King Herald-Tribune Media Group John LaCivita Willis Smith Construction David Lafferty Tidewell Hospice Kelley Lavin Sarasota Magazine

Mike Quillen Gecko’s Hospitality Group Darrin Rohr HH Staffing Services Jennifer Rominiecki Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Elizabeth Stamoulis Williams, Parker, Harrison, Dietz & Getzen John Stump The Bank of Tampa Elizabeth Topp Twinkle Toes Nanny Agency Gerhard Toth Regions Bank

Jim Ley Hibiscus Suites Lorrie Liang Sarasota Memorial Health Care System

Eric Troyer Kerkering, Barberio & Co. Don Vichitvongsa PGT Innovations

Kim Livengood The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime

Emily Walsh Observer Media Group

Mike McCoy Bank of America

Cina D. Welch FCCI Insurance Group

Erin McLeod Senior Friendship Center

GREATER SARASOTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBER MAGAZINE

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New Board Members

October 2020

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CHANGE THE GAME.

SINCE 2010, MORE THAN 1,000,000 FANS HAVE ENJOYED ORIOLES BASEBALL AT ED SMITH STADIUM. CONNECT WITH YOUR AUDIENCE THROUGH CUSTOM PARTNERSHIP AND HOSPITALITY OPPORTUNITIES.

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SCOREBOARD

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TICKETS

FOR CUSTOM ADVERTISING AND CORPORATE PARTNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES, CALL 941-893-6302 OR EMAIL MCARROLL@ORIOLES.COM. FOR ED SMITH STADIUM SUITE PACKAGES, CALL 941-893-6317 OR EMAIL SMOUDRY@ORIOLES.COM. THE ORIOLES ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT THE SARASOTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND ITS MEMBERS. 6

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GREATER SARASOTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBER MAGAZINE

MEMBER TESTIMONIALS #IamSarasotaChamber

“I am a proud member of the Chamber because I believe that cross-sector communication is essential to realizing positive community outcomes. Additionally, the Chamber’s Leadership programs cultivate the next generation of informed leaders in our communities.”

- Kameron Hodgens, Executive Director/CEO, The Glasser/ Schoenbaum Human Services Center

“I continue to choose to be a member of the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce for the relationships with the Chamber staff, fellow members and businesses, and with people in my community.

The GSCC strives to connect people who live, work, and play in our beautiful city and they are truly passionate about each member.”

- Elizabeth Topp, Co-Owner Twinkle Toes Nanny Agency

“I really enjoy being a member of the Greater Sarasota Chamber because there are so many events that are helpful to me for professional & personal reasons. As an active member I have to opportunity to support local businesses & meet new people very often.”

- Justin Johnson, Business Development Officer, IAS Marketing Services

“Joining YPG was the best decision I made after my move from California to Sarasota.

It’s a fantastic personal investment for building professional networks, making lifelong friends through social connections, and offers many volunteer opportunities to get involved and give back to the community!”

- Ross Johnston, Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

“We had experienced the value of membership for about a decade when we realized becoming a Market Mover level partner would be a smart move.

Pro-Motion Notions really values the increased exposure and opportunities that come along with that. I have never been one to join a group, board or committee and just dip my toe in. We dive in, head first and over our 32 years in business we’ve swam alongside some pretty big fish. My best advice to new members or members who don’t feel they have gotten a return on their investment- GET ENGAGED! What you get in return for your time and treasure will NOT disappoint. Plug in by attending events, refer and use fellow members, stay in touch on social media, keep your contact information on the website current and volunteer your time. Serving the Chamber, your fellow members and your community at large is so rewarding.”

- Annette Sciolino-Gueli, Owner, Pro-Motion Notions

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“The Greater Sarasota Chamber is a special organization where you see results from your membership.

Whether it is timely training for your employees through CareerEdge or safeguarding a positive business climate for our region, the member benefits add to your bottom line.”

- Mark Pritchett, President/CEO, Gulf Coast Community Foundation

“The Sarasota Chamber is an effective platform for businesses to come together and collaborate on the development and implementation of solutions for the betterment of our community.”

- Mike McCoy, SVP, Market President, Bank of America

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Virtual 2020 Frank G. Berlin, Sr. Small Business A 30 YEARS IN THE MAKING

Building on the spirit and heart that has defined this event for the last 30 yea excited to expand the reach and scope of the event this year by offering it v

ABOUT FRANK G. BERLIN, SR. Throughout his distinguished career, Frank G. Berlin, Sr. had the vision to see opportunities and the courage and energy to create them. Through his leadership, achievements in our community, and his untiring support of The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, Frank G. Berlin, Sr. epitomized the hopes and dreams of contemporary business entrepreneurs.

PRESENTING SPONSOR

The Chamber is grateful to the Berlin Foundation for lending his name and support to our Small Business Awards Program.

More Than the Bottom Line

SBA By the Numbers

Doing business in Sarasota is about more than the bottom lin 2020 Frank G. Berlin, Sr. Small Business Awards finalists exe community, innovation, and success amidst challenging time the video below to see what business in Sarasota is all about

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Our event looked a little different this year, but we were honored to be able to honor and celebrate our business community nevertheless. We are so grateful for the support from our sponsors and our community, which made this event possible.

6,000+ views 85,000+ YouTube Impressions 15,000+ reach 900+ Facebook comments 1,500 Facebook engagement

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Missed the event or looking to re-watch it? Click the buton b

Event Replay

GREATER SARASOTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBER MAGAZINE

Awards

ars, we were virtually.

Congratulations 2020 Awards Winners Small Business of the Year

Sponsored by: Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport WINNER: Four Winds Network Services

Thank You!

Medium Business of the Year

financial

ne. Our emplified es. Watch t.

below.

Sponsored by: Herald-Tribune Media Group WINNER: Tri County Air Conditioning & Heating, Inc.

Large Business of the Year Sponsored by: Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, LLP WINNER: Doctors Hospital of Sarasota

Community Impact Award Sponsored by: Kerkering, Barberio & Co. WINNER: Gecko’s Grill & Pub

Non-Profit of the Year Award Sponsored by: Hyatt Regency Sarasota WINNER: SunCoast Blood Bank

@suncoastbloodfl

1-866-977-BLOOD

suncoastblood.org

Thank You for the honor of recognizing Gecko’s Grill & Pub for the Community Impact award!

Rising Star Award

Sponsored by: HH Staffing Services WINNER: Atlas Networks

Workforce Innovation Award Sponsored by: Lakewood Ranch Medical Center WINNER: PGT Innovations

YP of the Year Award

Sponsored by: Kerkering, Barberio & Co. WINNER: Elizabeth Stamoulis

Mike Gowan and Mike Quillen, Gecko’s Hospitality Group family of restaurants

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F R E E R E U S A B L E M A S K S AVA I L A B L E

If your business needs masks we’ve got you covered, thanks to our partners at the Florida Chamber of Commerce!

We have free, reusable masks available for you and your team.

To reserve masks for your business, email sales@sarasotachamber.com or click the button below.

Reserve Your Masks

Office: 941-952-1220

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Request Line: 833-737-WSRQ (9777)

GREATER SARASOTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBER MAGAZINE

Want to Save Your Company Money?

Employers save approximately $6,112 annually in excess costs for each employee who quits smoking.

Gulfcoast South AHEC can help!

Gulfcoast South Area Health Education Center (AHEC) offers free cessation programs— sponsored by the Florida Department of Health’s Tobacco Free Florida program—that are available for your business and your employees. Offering cessation classes communicates your organization’s commitment to a tobacco-free workplace and improving the health of your employees. Gulfcoast South AHEC is able to provide tobacco cessation groups on-site or virtually via Zoom® conference to equip your employees with valuable information on Replacement Therapy in the form of patches, gum and/or lozenges. Certificates of completion are also provided that could qualify your company for reduced insurance rates.

Contact Gulfcoast South AHEC today to schedule a class or learn more about the program!

866-534-7909 | www.AHECtobacco.com GREATER SARASOTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBER MAGAZINE

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W H AT ’ S N E W I N

NEW MEMBERS July 2020 - September 2020 Corporate Trustee

Ace Handyman Services Sarasota Advantage Business Partners Angel Staging, LLC Aqua-Tots Swim Schools Sarasota Blu Home Cave Wealth Management Cennairus LLC Consult HR Partners CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC Current Technologies Corporation

Fishman & Associates MakSchu LLC Manasota Black Chamber of Commerce Manatee Tree Service Norman Love Confections Nova Physical Therapy Specialists Osprey Consulting and Permitting Services, LLC Personalized Fitness & Massage

Center Professional Plumbing & Design Purple Fish Creative, LLC Sarasota Sports Medicine The Jones Group at RE/MAX Platinum Trish Urzedowski - Realtor Vertical | Design Build Windward Design Group Women’s Resource Center of Manatee, Inc.

C E L E B R AT I N G A Q U A RT E R O F A C E N T U RY O F M E M B E R Join us as we recognize members who have been a part of our Chamber for 25 years or more.

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Adams and Reese LLP Sarasota Ford

27 Community Foundation of Sarasota County

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FCCI Insurance Group

Hembree & Associates, Inc.

Schroeder-Manatee Ranch, Inc.

Al Purmort Insurance, Inc.

Coldwell Banker Residential & Commercial Real Estate Office Depot, Inc. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

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Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

Liberty Savings Bank

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GREATER SARASOTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBER MAGAZINE

34 Holiday Inn - Lido Beach Wright Accounting

MEMBERSHIP

MEMBER NEWS For a second year in a row, Teri Hansen, President | CEO of CHARLES & MARGERY BARANCIK FOUNDATION was named one of Florida Trend Magazine’s Florida 500, a recognition that highlights the most influential executives in different economic sectors throughout the state.

New to the Chamber or looking for an information refresh? Join us at a Connect1st virtual event for some tips & tricks on how to get the best value out of your membership.

Aqua Plumbiing & Air

44 Purmort & Martin Insurance Agency, LLC

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State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota

Eight ICARD MERRILL attorneys have been selected for the 2021 list of The Best Lawyers in America ®.

KERKERING, BARBERIO & CO. Certified Public Accountants, was ranked one of the Top 300 Accounting Firms in the nation by INSIDE Public Accounting (IPA 300).

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Local BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF SARASOTA COUNTY member, Marguerite Andrich, who currently holds the Florida Youth of the Year title for both the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County and the state of Florida, is a finalist for the 2020 Southeast Youth of Year regional award.

65 Publix Super Markets, Inc.

60 The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art

47 Gilbane Building Company

LAKEWOOD RANCH MEDICAL CENTER (LWRMC) has received the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Get With The Guidelines®-Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award. The award recognizes the hospital’s commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines based on the latest scientific evidence.

All three of MATTISON’S restaurants were recognized as 2020 Travelers’ Choice award-winners for Best Restaurant. Mattison’s is known for consistently receiving great diner feedback, placing them in the top 10% of hospitality businesses around the globe.

MUSIC COMPOUND is debuting a new Show Choir & Musical Theatre program this month at its Cattlemen studio; leading the program is noted longtime Sarasota educator, Julie Rohr McHugh.

For the fifth time in six years, MY SHOWER DOOR was placed on Inc. 5000 list of the fastest growing and most successful independent businesses in the United States.

SARASOTA MAGAZINE took home 29 awards in the 2020 Florida Magazine Association’s Annual Charlie Awards. Sarasota Magazine was the top award among all magazines for number of awards.

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A new way to see IT Current Technologies is an IT and Physical Security firm providing a full range of soluuons tailored to our client’s needs.

For more than 20 years we’ve been providing industry leading technology soluuons with our team of talented technicians.

Our soluuons: Everything A-Z in IT Physical Security & Surveillance Access Control www.CurrentTech.net Info@Currennech.net (941) 226-8750 6245 Clark Center Ave Suite J

Together we are…Optimistic From the seed of challenge grows opportunity.

Let’s get together at StearnsBank.com Sarasota (941) 929-9000

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October 2020

St. Petersburg (727) 521-1000

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Venice (941) 497-6660

Follow us

| Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender

GREATER SARASOTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBER MAGAZINE

MEMBER TIP Update Your Listing, Social Media, and Website Information

OUR FOCUS: YOUR COMFORT

Step 1: Go to www.sarasotachamber.com.

Chamber Website

Step 2: Click on MEMBER LOGIN at the top of the page.

Step 3: Login with your Organization Username & Password. If you do not have your organization’s master login information, please contact Craig McGonigal.

Forgot Your Password?

941.893.6450 1.888.COLD.AIR

conditionedair.com No High Pressure 100% Satisfaction Guarantee License# CAC1819590, CAC1813219, CPC1459449

Step 4: You will appear on the Member Portal Home after you have logged in. Your company name should be listed above the paragraph.

Step 5: Under the Member Portal Home, in the third column, select the fourth option, Profile Update.

Simply click on Edit My Profile for the Organization (a pop up appears) to edit any of your information.

Click on Directory Listing and update your listing with a short company description (250 characters or less) and a long company description.

Click on Social Media and link any of your social media profiles including Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, Yelp & more!

Open Daily By Appointment 2542 17th St, Sarasota, FL 34234 941.366.2404 | info@catdepot.org www.catdepot.org

Questions?

Contact Craig McGongial, Membership Engagement Manager at cmcgonigal@sarasotachamber.com.

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L E A D E R S H I P S A R A S O TA C O U N T Y ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: ERIN CHRISTY CELEBRATE OUTSTANDING

Hometown: Sarasota, Florida Company: Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, LLP Leadership Class Year: 2012 How do you stay connected with area professionals? I stay connected by being genuinely curious and interested in the careers and lives of people with whom I’ve connected. I think too often marketing and business development are viewed as a box to be checked on a to-do list. If you pivot your perspective to one of a genuine relationship rather than a task, staying connected with professionals looks the same as staying connected with friends—because chances are they ARE friends! For me that runs the gamut based on personal communication styles— sometimes it’s a phone call, sometimes an email, and sometimes it’s a gif of the “Carlton Dance” celebrating good news in a deal.

What was the most impactful part of the Leadership Sarasota program? Leadership Sarasota served as the catalyst for friendships, personal and professional, that have endured for nearly decade. I have shared long meals and conversations, traveled the world, and danced on our wedding night with friends formed through Leadership Sarasota. Professionally, while the reason I’m at Shumaker is multi-faceted, the WAY I’m at Shumaker is Leadership Sarasota. Partner and Litigation Practice Co-administrator Dan DeLeo is a fellow c/o 2012 alumnus, and when I was looking to grow my real estate practice with a forward-thinking, national firm supported with strong Sarasota roots, Dan was my first call. Leadership Sarasota provided that connection that endured from our introduction at SIMSOC in 2011 to my joining Shumaker in 2019.

What is the best piece of professional advice you have been given? At a coffee meeting early in my career, a wildly successful person shared with me: “I’ve never taken a job I was qualified for.” His point was that you don’t make a move in your career because you have all the answers and already possess every skill in the job description, but because you have a strong base and are meant for growth. If you are curious, hardworking, and motivated, your next step won’t be the one you’re already at, it will push you to new heights.

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LEADERSHIP AWARDS

Congratulations Honorees Congratulations again to the 2020 Celebrate Outstanding Leadership Awards honorees Pam Truitt, Philip Tavill, and Pam Beitlich! It was our honor to celebrate these incredible trailblazers and their commitment to our community.

Missed the event or looking to re-watch it? Click the buton below.

Event Replay

Stay in the Know

Update Your Profile Information Stay connected with Leadership Alumni news! If Please send your updated contact information to Sara Rachon, Programs Manager, at srachon@ sarasotachamber.com.

GREATER SARASOTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBER MAGAZINE • APRIL 2017 October 2020 • GREATER SARASOTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBER MAGAZINE

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Class project - The Theme of Transformation The Leadership Sarasota Class of 2020 class project transformed the Florida Center for Early Childhood’s outside space.

Leadership participants dedicated their weekends and secured donations to expand the Center’s outdoor play space into a sensory garden. The garden was designed to inspire the theme of ‘Transformation’ and includes caterpillars and butterflies as prominent features throughout. The space includes a new fence, concrete walkway with beautiful landscaping, an irrigation system, fiberglass animals, musical instruments, an herb garden, a calming area, and a hand painted rock river.

“Our class of diverse professionals worked together to design, fundraise, paint, plant and build an incredible sensory garden. It was inspiring to watch everyone work as a team to make a positive impact that will be enjoyed by the children of the Florida Center for many years to come,” says Kaitlin Yelle, Leadership Sarasota County Class Project Co-Chair.

The project was made possible by generous grants from Annie Yu, The Cowles Charitable Trust, Ken & Peggy Abt and a fundraising campaign organized by the leadership class, as well as in-kind donations from Willis Smith Construction, Plant Parents and Gecko’s Grill & Pub.

The Leadership Journey Starts Here Introducing the members of the Leadership Sarasota Class of 2021!

Eloise Abraham Brent Anderson Paul Bachmann Lynn Beck Craig Bennison Timothy Bisson Barbara Braun Ernest Cave Nicole Christie Christine Coney Will Cromie Adam Cromie Jade Davis

Ugur Durmaz Kimberly Evener Paul Gammons Anthony Giovi Gillian Haggerty Devaney Iglesias Brad Johnson Katie Kominos Micki Larson Kristen Lessig - Schenerlein Christopher Lopez Nels Matson Hollie Mowry

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Monaca Onstad Joseph Savinsky Daniel Shaffer Crystal Skinner Candice Smith-Singh Maris Snell Elizabeth Sparr Allyssa Tobitt Heather Todd Samantha Valentin Lana Walsh Cassie Wegeng Destin Wells

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W E L C O M E T O T H E T E A M K AT H RY N Join us in welcoming our new CareerEdge Programs Coordinator, Kathryn Whalen!

Kathryn has a BA degree from The University of Central Florida in Hospitality Management and Communications and started her career at the Seminole County Chamber of Commerce, just outside of Orlando, as a Development & Special Events Manager. Since then, Kathryn has gained vast experience in working with nonprofits throughout her career in many different capacities, including the American Cancer Society and American Red Cross where she lent her talents to development, major gifts and corporate partnerships. For the past ten years she has been working in the private sector, as the Director of Operations for a locally family-owned and operated home inspection company, Second Opinion Home Inspection, LLC. Kathryn is from the Suncoast and enjoys traveling, boating and is an avid Tampa Bay Bucs, Rays and Lightning Fan! She lives in Lakewood Ranch with her husband and three children.

CAREEREDGE IS ADDRESSING WORKFORCE CHALLENGES DURING A CRISIS In just a few short months, the workforce landscape in our region changed rapidly. CareerEdge continues to work tirelessly with businesses, education providers and community partners to build a recovery that provides a skilled workforce while offering familysustaining wages and career laddering opportunities.

Our focus is on industries poised for growth: healthcare, manufacturing, insurance, skilled trades, and information technology. Throughout the past six months, CareerEdge has responded to our new workforce challenges by: • Convening its Manufacturing, HVAC, Automotive and Insurance Councils which include employers and education providers. Via Zoom employers shared how COVID-19 has 18

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impacted their industries, projected hiring, and training needs. CareerEdge will use this information to develop its workforce strategy moving forward • Reimbursing businesses nearly $70,000 for hiring 37 summer internships, with employers that include FCCI, Design/Marine Concepts, Radiant Power Group, Octex PGT, Four Winds and Atlas Networks • Awarding training grants in amount of $212,498 to Sarasota Memorial, Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, Manatee Memorial Hospital, Tidewell Hospice, State Farm, and Atlantic Mold that will increase skills and wages of their current employees

• Working with technical colleges CareerEdge is planning fast track training that offer upskill our local workforce by offering rapid credentials and certifications in HVAC, plumbing, healthcare, manufacturing, and automotive industries. Provided match to $36,000 in funding.

• Convening the Regional Workforce Council which includes nonprofit organizations to align strategies and resources in support of getting people back to work CareerEdge is honored to support workforce in our community for the past ten years. We have a lot of work to do moving forward to address our new challenges. To learn how CareerEdge can assist your business or if you want to be involved visit www.careeredgeunders.org.

GREATER SARASOTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBER MAGAZINE

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS GROUP

Young Professionals Group

YPG SPOTLIGHT: HUNTER CARPENTER Hometown: Sarasota, Florida Company: Community Foundation of Sarasota County Title: Manager, Communications and Marketing

What is the best piece of professional advice you have been given? Know when to take a leap of faith and do so without fear or doubt. You never know what you’ll discover about yourself along the way.

What is your favorite thing about Sarasota? Growing up in Sarasota, I’ve always admired the spirit of volunteerism you can find around every corner. For the better part of my childhood, my Sunday morning routine consisted of waking up early to go volunteer at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens with my grandmother, a tradition we continued for nearly 14 years. I’ve come to learn that many of my friends and colleagues share stories similar to my own, and it’s no wonder when you realize there are thousands of nonprofit organizations you can choose to give your time to in our region alone. I believe this willingness and enthusiasm to volunteer is what makes Sarasota unique, and what ultimately led me back home.

What do people say you do really well? Connecting people through the power of storytelling and content development, and creating spaces where everyone has an opportunity to share their own stories.

Connect with Us Upcoming Events Dip Netting in Sarasota Bay!

Saturday, October 17 | 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. | Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium Join us as we explore the beauty and uniqueness of our local estuary, Sarasota Bay. During this program we will wade into the water and use dip nets to learn what animals call the bay home, explore what plants live in the bay and learn how we can help protect this important ecosystem.

Click here to register.

YPG Summit

Friday, January 8, 2021 | 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. | Embassy Suites Sarasota Featuring keynote speaker Charles Clark, the creator of the Thrive Planner and the Thrive Tribe Podcast, and expert in habit improvement, discovering purpose, vision creating and goal setting.

After he became the 6th fastest man in the world, a devastating injury left him searching for his identity. Charles developed techniques that brought clarity to his life’s purpose while establishing massive confidence. Charles’ modern transformation strategies, empowering presentations, and high-performance mindset hacks have made him a sought-after motivational speaker and coach for leading organizations like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Nike, Raymond James Financial, Frontier Communications, iHeart Radio, US Army, and FSU. YPG’ers had a blast exploring the mangroves at our recent YPG Walk and Talk event.

Click here to register.

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Member FDIC

L to R: Bryan Boudreaux-Manatee County Market Director, Scott & Bea Spoerl-Owners of Finecraft Custom Cabinetr y

What is a relationship?

“Over the years and throughout our careers, we have worked with many financial institutions, and we have found that the true test of a banking relationship is working through challenging times. Your team has gone above and beyond, time and time again, when it mattered most. We truly value our relationship and hold you and your team in the highest of regards. We look forward to many more years working together.”

941.248.1800 thebankoftampa.com

-Scott and Bea Spoerl Owners, Finecraft Custom Cabinetry THE BANK OF TAMPA I RELATIONSHIP BANKING DEFINED GREATER SARASOTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBER MAGAZINE

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A D V E RT I S I N G O P P O RT U N I T I E S Your Chamber has a host of opportunities for you to advertise and promote your business!

Chamber Buzz E-Newsletter - The Chamber

Website Advertising - Looking to enhance your

- 1 Month (4 issues): $350 - 3 Months (12 issues): $800 - 6 Months (24 issues): $1,450 - 12 Months (48 issues): $2,500

Directory Advertising: 6 Months - $650 12 Months - $1,000 Homepage Advertising: 6 Months - $1,699 12 Months - $2,995 Full Website Package: 6 Months - $2,750 12 Months - $4,995

Buzz E-Newsletter is distributed every Tuesday to 5,000+ Chamber members. Advertise anywhere from one (4 issues) to 12 months (48 issues)!

presence on our website and reach 65,000+ online users per year? See our advertising packages below.

Advertise in the Bridge Magazine - Distributed to 7,000+ business professionals and online viewers, advertising in the Chamber’s quarterly member magazine, The Bridge, is a great way to showcase your products or services to engaged members of our business community.

Take advantage of our limited time Bridge advertising promotion! Book your next Bridge ad by November 15 and receive a 10% rate discount.

BRIDGE Full Page Ad Special Placement: Inside Front Cover Single ad - $1,500 Two or more ads - $1,350 ea.

Half Page Ad Single ad - $460 Two or more ads - $420 ea.

Special Placement: Back Cover Single ad - $1,000 Two or more ads - $850 ea.

Standard Full Page Single - $700 Two or more ads - $600 ea.

Advertising Insert: Full Page Single - $300 Two or more ads - $250

Quarter Page Ad Single ad - $230 Two or more ads - $200 ea.

To reserve advertising space or for more information, please contact Brittany Lamont, blamont@sarasotachamber.com 21

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their knowledge outside the classroom this year. Internship outcomes from recent annual evaluation include: 94% of employers reported the internship added value to their organization, 94% of employers plan to offer additional internships and 64% of interns were hired at an average wage of $19.62/ per hour.”

CHAMBER NEWS Sarasota Chamber’s Adult Leadership Program Holds DriveThrough Graduation Sarasota Magazine | Staff | “Thirty-nine citizens from across the community graduated from the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce’s Adult Leadership Sarasota program last week. A drivethrough celebration was held outside the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce complete with breakfast, diplomas and live music.”

CareerEdge Brings Nearly $600,000 To Bolster Regional Workforce Development SRQ Daily | Staff | “This year, CareerEdge raised $592,280 from 12 different organizations including financial institutions, county government, private foundations – both local and national. With their support, CareerEdge will continue its efforts to improve the workforce climate in Sarasota and Manatee counties. CareerEdge helps workers advance into higher-skill/higher-wage careers, while providing employers with the workers they need to accelerate growth. As a nonprofit, CareerEdge could do not conduct its innovative work without the support of funders.”

CareerEdge Hires Workforce Program Coordinator Sarasota Magazine| Staff | “ Kathryn Whalen has joined Career Edge Funders Collaborative, the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce’s workforce initiative, as its program Coordinator. Whalen will assist with workforce development initiatives, leading fast-track training programs, work with business and community partners, as well as coordinating special projects for CareerEdge Funders Collaborative.”

Sarasota Chamber hands out small business awards at virtual event Herald-Tribune Media Group | John Hielscher | “The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce handed out eight awards on Friday during the first virtual presentation of its Frank G. Berlin Sr. Small Business Awards.”

Celebrating our small businesses Herald-Tribune Media Group | Heather Kasten | “Last week, the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce hosted its 30th Annual Frank G. Berlin, Sr. Small Business Awards Luncheon presented by the Herald-Tribune Media Group. […] The Chamber team worked hard to convert the event to a virtual experience that had the same heart and excitement as years past. Over 700 people tuned in to the event celebrate the 26 finalists in 8 award categories.”

Sarasota Chamber Announces Finalists for Young Professional of the Year Sarasota Magazine | Staff | “The Sarasota Young Professionals Group (YPG), a program of the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, has announced the 2020 Young Professional (YP) of the Year Award finalists.

The award recognizes a young professional in the Sarasota region that has demonstrated outstanding leadership personally, professionally, and in our community. The 2020 YP of the Year Award is presented by Kerkering, Barberio & Co.” Barancik Foundation Awards CareerEdge Funding to Help Shape the Future of Our Workforce SRQ Daily | Staff | “Through partnerships with 100 local businesses, CareerEdge has funded 329 internships for students to apply

Safety and tourism this Labor Day Weekend on the Suncoast WWSB - ABC7 | Rebecca Fernandez | “Almost every vacation rental property on Anna Maria Island and Bradenton Beach are sold out for this weekend.

Plus, hotels and condos in Sarasota County are seeing that same trend.

‘That certainly helps, not only are the hotels and our vacation rentals, but it will drive a lot of traffic to our restaurants and small businesses. This is very encouraging. I do think we are moving forward, and Labor Day will be a strong weekend for our businesses,’ Heather Kasten, the President & CEO of the Sarasota Area Chamber Of Commerce, said.”

CareerEdge Offers Tuition-Free HVAC Installation and Maintenance Fast-Track Training SRQ Daily | Staff | “Local heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) companies are partnering with CareerEdge and Suncoast Technical College (STC) to offer a free fast-track HVAC Installation and Maintenance program which will launch in September. This training provides a gateway job for individuals to enter a career with upward mobility opportunities to earn higher wages with benefits.”

SouthTech Data Dump Event Returns to Ed Smith Stadium SRQ Daily | Staff | “SouthTech [...] has teamed up with the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce to host the Fall 2020 Data Dump. A biannual event made possible by Quicksilver Recycling Services, SouthTech encourages locals to recycle their old and outdated technology in a clean, sustainable manner.”

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DISCOVER As we grow, we’re excited to announce our recent purchase of the historic Wilson Building at 27 S. Orange Avenue almost tripling our existing square footage.

As construction begins, we hope you will join us in this journey. We pledge to continue to manage wealth and preserve legacy.

CTRUST.COM | 941-493-3600 Current Sarasota Office: 1561 Main Street Headquarters: 1400 Center Road, Venice

YOUR FAMILY | YOUR FUTURE | YOUR LEGACY

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