The Bridge Magazine - July 2023

JULY

PAGES 2-4

PAGES 8-9

MEMBERSHIP

PAGES 18-21

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

Our Chamber takes great pride in celebrating small businesses, as they are the true heart and soul of our business community in the Sarasota region. It was such a pleasure and honor to recognize our small businesses at our annual Small Business Awards Luncheon this past month. This year we had over 500 chamber members attend the luncheon to recognize and celebrate our hardworking businessmen and women. This event is a fan favorite for many of our members and staff because it is ALL about our members.

This marks the 33rd year that we have hosted the Frank G. Berlin, Sr. Small Business Awards and it is always incredibly tough on our judges to determine the finalists and winners. We are so grateful for the team of judges who invested countless hours reviewing the exceptional applications and meticulously narrowing down the field to the 27 outstanding finalists. In my opinion, if your business was selected as a finalist, you already WON big by being recognized as a top 3 finalist.

All of our finalists’ businesses are extraordinary examples of successful businesspeople that truly exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit of Frank G. Berlin, Sr. Mr. Berlin was a successful businessman and community leader who chaired the Chamber more than 67 years ago. It is for that reason that this Chamber event bears his name. The 27 awards finalists and hundreds of other small enterprises are the backbone of our community’s economy. Please join me in my celebration of their innovation and pursuit of excellence. A list of finalists and winners can be found on the Sarasota Chamber website and on our social media.

President/CEO

LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN

CHAMBER STAFF

Heather Kasten President/CEO hkasten@sarasotachamber.com

(941) 556-4050

Ed Hill Vice President ehill@sarasotachamber.com

(941) 556-4040

Dan Sidler Vice President of CareerEdge & Economic Development dsidler@sarasotachamber.com

(941) 556-4045

Maggie Burton Executive Assistant mburton@sarasotachamber.com

(941) 556-4051

Recently, we hosted our “Superbowl” of events — the 2023 Small Business Awards. This event is the epitome of what we do at the Chamber — celebrating business, entrepreneurship, leadership, innovation, and growth. While we celebrated the winners and finalists of the nine different categories, what’s more, is the fact that we had the most applications for these prestigious awards. More than 100, to be exact.

I had the pleasure of serving on the initial application review panel. Reading the success stories of businesses from large to small, non-profit organizations, minority- and womenowned, those that are just starting out and how they are creating impact in our community and innovating workforce solutions was truly inspiring.

Our membership is incredibly diverse, determined and passionate about what they do in their businesses, yet all have the same goal of making our community a better place to work, live, and play. I’m convinced that our membership played a huge role in making Sarasota the No. 1 “Best Places to Live in Florida” and No. 5 in “Best Places to Live in the U.S.,” as recently ranked by U.S. News & World Report.

The very best part of my tenure as the Chair of the Board is getting to know and meet all of you, our members. At our events or meetings of our various councils, I am in awe of your dedication to our community and the Chamber. Equally rewarding is working side by side with President & CEO Heather Kasten and the entire Chamber staff. They are dedicated to making your membership with the Chamber a rewarding and long-lasting experience. Thank you for this opportunity and I look forward to networking with all of you for many years to come.

Emily Walsh, Observer Media Group Chairman of the Board

Kevin Golumbeck CareerEdge Program Manager kgolumbeck@sarasotachamber.com

(941) 556-4038

Zach Henkel Membership Investment Manager zhenkel@sarasotachamber.com

(941) 556-4029

Sonya Islam Communications Coordinator sislam@sarasotachamber.com

(941) 556-4046

Melanie Lavender Opportunities For All Manager mlavender@sarasotachamber.com

(941) 556-4058

Craig McGonigal Director of Membership Engagement cmcgonigal@sarasotachamber.com

(941) 556-4034

Heather Moore Event Manager hmoore@sarasotachamber.com

(941) 556-4035

Hayley Nau Communications Coordinator hnau@sarasotachamber.com

(941) 556-4031

Sara Rachon Director of Programs srachon@sarasotachamber.com

(941) 556-4039

Christine Seaman Accounting Coordinator accounting@sarasotachamber.com

(941) 556-4053

Lisa Wood Event Coordinator lwood@sarasotachamber.com

(941) 955-8187

UNVEILING

SARASOTA GRAND EXPO: LIMITLESS BUSINESS CONNECTIONS!

The Sarasota Chamber’s Grand Expo, which took place on Thursday, April 6, exceeded all expectations, leaving attendees connected and empowered to shop locally in the community. The event showcased immersive exhibits that embodied the forefront of innovation. The purpose of the Grand Expo is to foster connections among industry leaders, paving the way for future collaborations and advancements. The goal was achieved, the event left a lasting impact on attendees and highlighted the boundless opportunities for networking at the Sarasota Grand Expo.

RISE, INSPIRE, LEAD: WOMEN AT WORK LUNCHEON

The Women at Work Luncheon was a highly anticipated event celebrating and empowering women in the workplace. The event featured inspiring keynote speaker, Kim Richmond, where she dicussed how to overcome imposter syndrome. Attendees had the opportunity to network and connect with like-minded professionals, fostering valuable connections and collaborations. Overall, the Women at Work Luncheon served as a powerful platform to support women’s advancement in various industries.

Thank you to our 2023 Women at Work Luncheon Sponsors

Thank you to our 2023 Grand Expo Sponsors

MONTHLY EVENTS

Wednesday, July 12

11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Sarasota Art Museum

P OWE R HOUR Lunc h

Wednesday, August 9

11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

1592 Woodfired Kitchen & Cocktails

Wednesday, September 13

11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Anna Maria Oyster Bar Landside

Thursday, July 20

5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Humane Society of Sarasota

Thursday, September 21

5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Town Square Sarasota

Wednesday, July 26

8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Topic: Engaging Your Community Through Social and Online Presence

The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce

Wednesday, August 16

8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Topic: People Don't Quit Jobs, They Quit Managers - Closing the Leadership Gap

The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce

Thursday, August 17

7:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.

BSWANKY

SIGNATURE EVENTS

Wednesday, July 19

11:30 a.m. - 1:15 p.m.

Topic: Real Estate Trends

The Carlisle Inn

Presented by: Keiser University

September 25-28

Chamber members will volunteer throughout the week at Chamber member non-profits.

Presented by: Sam’s Club

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE

THANK YOU CAREEREDGE FUNDERS:

The work of CareerEdge Funders Collaborative within our community would not be possible without the generous and committed support of our funders.

CAREEREDGE

Marine FastTrack Graduation

On May 10th, CareerEdge celebrated the dedication, hard work, and passion of this incredible group of Marine FastTrack graduates as they embark on exciting careers in the marine industry. Three students from the program have already been hired for positions at Chris-Craft! Thank you to Suncoast Technical College and Chris-Craft for your collaboration on this FastTrack program, and thank you to the funders for making this possible!

CNA FastTrack Graduation

On June 12th, CareerEdge commemorated an amazing journey for our CNA FastTrack participants! Congratulations to the latest cohort of the CareerEdge CNA FastTrack program on their graduation. We are immensely proud of their commitment to pursuing a career in healthcare and cannot wait to see the incredible impact they will make in the lives of patients.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL

Networking To Collaboration

The Opportunities For All (OFA) Networking to Collaboration events were complete successes, bringing together professionals from various industries to foster collaboration and meaningful connections. Since the start of 2023, OFA has hosted three Networking to Collaboration events, in hopes of providing small, minority businesses with the resources and knowledge to help their business grow in Sarasota. With each event focused on a

topic, for example importance on customer service to financial banking during tax seasons, attendees learned how they could leaverage their business with the help of the Chamber and Chamber members. Attendees were also able to forge new relationships and connections in the community. The OFA Networking to Collaboration events proved to be a valuable platform for fostering collaboration and inspiring future partnerships.

This experience is fully funded by the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce through the Opportunities For All grant provided by Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation.

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENTS

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS GROUP

Empower and Connect: The Sarasota YP Summit

Friday, August 18, 2023 | 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM Carlisle Inn

The Sarasota Young Professionals Group is absolutely thrilled to present the most anticipated and extraordinary event of the year - the Annual Young Professionals Summit, presented by Kerkering, Barberio & Co.! Brace yourself for an unforgettable half-day experience filled with enlightening conversations from community leaders, and the opportunity to grow your network, professionally and personally. The summit also recognizes outstanding finalists for the Young Professional of the Year Award! Be prepared to witness sheer excellence as we shine a spotlight on exceptional finalists who exemplify the very essence of young professional achievement. Don’t miss this momentous occasion that could be a stepping stone into your young professional career.

To register for the event, scan the QR Code Thank you to our current YPG Summit Sponsors

Save the Date for These Unforgettable Events

YPG After Hours at Hamlet’s Eatery

Thursday, August 3, 2023 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

2023 YP Summit

Friday, August 18, 2023 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

YPG After Hours at Cask and Ale

Thursday, September 7, 2023 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

YPG After Hours at 99 Bottles

Thursday, October 5, 2023 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

Register at sarasotachamber.com

Thank You Annual YPG Sponsors:

LEADERSHIP SARASOTA

Celebrating the Rise of Youth and Adult Leaders!

Congratulations to the Leadership Class of 2023! In May, both the Youth and Adult programs concluded with their graduation ceremonies, symbolizing the end of an incredible journey. The event marked the culmination of months of hard work, growth, and development for the graduating class. Proud family members and friends came together to celebrate the outstanding achievements of these emerging leaders. We are eagerly looking forward to witnessing the remarkable contributions and positive impact that these Leadership alumni will undoubtedly make in shaping the future of Sarasota.

2023 Celebrate Outstanding Leadership Awards

On Wednesday, May 24, we recognized the exceptional individuals who inspire, motivate, and lead with excellence. Congratulations to the outstanding awardees of the Celebrate Outstanding Leadership Awards: Taylor Aultman, recipient of the Outstanding Leader Award; Stacy Dillard-Spahn, honored with the Leadership Sarasota Dedication Award; Lisa Krouse, bestowed with the Lifetime of Leadership Award; and John Stump, the Impact in Action Award winner. Together, they embody the true essence of leadership, making a lasting impact on their communities and beyond. A well-deserved celebration of their remarkable achievements!

Thank You Annual Leadership Sponsors:

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENTS

CORPORATE CORNER

John LaCivita

“Remember to give back to your community. It takes more than just your skills and talents. You will need your community to support you to be successful.”

Position: President

Company: Willis Smith Construction

Q: What is the biggest leadership lesson you have learned?

In my 26 years at Willis Smith Construction, the biggest lesson I have learned is to listen first. Don’t be the first to speak up in a meeting. Take a moment to listen. Everyone has a different personality and delivers their messages in a unique way. Before responding, you must understand what the person is communicating or requesting.

Q: What is one business advice you would give to local entrepreneurs?

I have two pieces of business advice. First, remember to give back to your community. It takes more than just your skills and talents. You will need your community to support you to be successful. Second, take risks. Being an entrepreneur, I take risks all the time. I know it drives my team crazy, but if you do not take chances on new ideas, you will become old, boring, and stale. Always try to think outside the box.

Q: Are there any exciting developments happening in your company?

We just finished our yearlong celebration commemorating 50 years in business in Sarasota/Manatee County. We are thankful to our local community, friends, and clients for their continued support. The firm is consistently gaining new young talent in this challenging marketplace, and I could not be more proud of our new hires and what they bring to our company. I love everyone who works at Willis Smith.

Q: What do you love the most about Sarasota?

Being a native Sarasotan, I have a tremendous love for Sarasota. I love our natural resources, the beaches, the bays, and the parks. I love hot sunny weather, sitting on sandbars in a beach chair with a cooler beside me, listening to country or 80’s music, and watching boats and people enjoying our beautiful Sarasota Bay.

DEVELOPMENTS

CORPORATE CORNER

Laura Cole

“Make sure team members understand the ‘why’ behind [your] decisions and share in their success”

Position: Senior Vice President Company: Lakewood Ranch

Q: What is the biggest leadership lesson you have learned?

In this period of great uncertainty, I have found that having an entrepreneurial mindset and an agile disposition pays dividends in solving unforeseen issues and maximizing opportunities born of change. I have learned how important it is to take the time to make sure team members understand the “why” behind our decisions and share in their success.

Q: What is one business advice you would give to local entrepreneurs?

The Sarasota region has elevated its profile beyond a vacation destination to the #1 Place to Live in Florida (Per US News and World Reports). This is bringing unprecedented growth to our region, and I believe unprecedented opportunities for entrepreneurs who know how to identify the gaps in services and products to meet growing demand. Study the economy, identify the sectors that are primed for growth, find your lane, and deliver.

Q: Are there any exciting developments happening in your company?

Waterside Village in Lakewood Ranch is really coming to life with wonderful multigenerational neighborhoods, a vibrant lakefront town center, entertainment and cultural offerings that have a regional draw, and an exciting new park attracting families and young professionals who enjoy our social sports leagues. The beauty of the setting, enthusiasm of the residents, and success of the businesses have led to Waterside Place being nearly 100% leased--we still have an opportunity for an office user on the third floor, overlooking our largest lake! Stay tuned for upcoming waterfront dining opportunities in Waterside Place including: Osteria 500, Agave Bandido, and Deep Lagoon.

Q: What do you love the most about Sarasota?

Extraordinary quality of life coupled with a deep sense of identity. The Cultural Coast just keeps getting better, and better, and better.

MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

March 2023 - May 2023

Please help us in welcoming the following new members joining our Chamber family!

21 Million Radio Show

All Service Adjusting

American Heart Association

AmeriLife of the Gulfcoast, LLC

AmPm Restoration Services

Angela Chang Design Studio

APC Integrated

Applied Innovation

Architecture Sarasota

Arroyo | McArdle

Automation Empire

Azzurro Realty

B&H Specialty Construction

Baer’s Quality Furniture & Interior Design

Better Together

Bitcoin Ben’s Crypto Club

BoxDrop Mattress &

Furniture Sarasota

Bricks & Minifigs Sarasota

BSWANKY

Camelot Community Care

Children’s Art Classes

Civix Property Management

Critter Control

Crown Trophy of Sarasota

Crumbl Cookies

DaVinci Estates

Dream That Big Publishing

El Tropicale Vacation Rentals

Engel & Voelkers Sarasota

Equal SRQ, Inc.

Extended Family Home Care Services

Fezzle Media

Florida Engineering LLC

Forked At Waterside

Granite Empire

Greta Hughes - Coastal Luxury Real Estate Partners

Heartland, A Global Payments Company

Hightower Great Lakes

Hyatt Residence Club Sarasota,

Siesta Key Beach

Iltis Lending Group, Inc.

Integrity Wealth Management, Inc.

Investor Friendly CPA

Jack’s Donuts N. Tamiami

Jesse’s Garage European Auto Repair

Justin Adams Surface Restoration

KingzCrete Construction

Legacy Business Leaders

Linda Holley LLC Author

Mahoney Concrete Systems LLC

Massage Heights

Melting Pot

Mystical’s Dance Company

National Metering Services

New York Life | Insurance & Investments

Overturf’s Floor and Fabric Care

PCS Florida

Pet Supplies Plus - Sarasota

Pines of Sarasota Foundation

Real Property Management Suncoast

Roche Bobois

Roof Maxx

Roof RX

Rosalyn Walton Education and Enrichment Services, Inc

Rothco Signs & Design, Inc.

Sandeep Sastry

Signature Strokes, Paint and Murals, LLC

Simple Network Consulting

South Osprey Dermatology Associates

Steve Freedman

Style by Maria 2

Suddath

Team Goff Health Coaching

The Matechik Law Firm, P.A.

The Miley Clinic for Hormones and Regenerative Health

The Modern Girl Party & Co.

Titan Placement Group

Toastique

Tropitone Furniture LLC

Tweeds Custom Suits

Twin Peaks

Viking Mergers & Acquisitions

Westcoast Electric Services, Inc.

Yard House

CELEBRATING THE BIG MOMENTS

March 2023 - May 2023

Celebrate your business grand opening or major renovation with a Chamber Ribbon Cutting by contacting Heather Moore at hmoore@sarasotachamber.com.

March 2023

April 2023

MEMBERSHIP UPDATES

Ribbon cuttings are ceremonial events to celebrate the opening of a new business or the expansion of an existing one. The purpose of these events is to create a sense of community and generate publicity for the business. Ribbon cuttings provide an opportunity for businesses to showcase their products or services, network with other professionals, and gain exposure to potential customers. You can view all of Sarasota Chamber members’ ribbon cuttings on our social media platforms!

May 2023

The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce

1945 Fruitville Road

Sarasota, FL 34236