The Bridge Magazine - October 2023

LEADERSHIP

OCTOBER 2023

UPDATES

PAGES 18-23

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

It’s hard to believe that fall is officially here! With the changing of the seasons, it is the perfect time to reflect on 2023 so far. As many of you know, our fiscal year ended September 30th and we are now at the start of a new year for our organization.

We know that running a business is hard – truthfully, more than hard. We have all been challenged emotionally, mentally, financially, and beyond this past year. Yet we have also witnessed incredible strength, kindness, and an uprising of community pride. 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 action-sharing information that supports all of you, and 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.

The Chamber’s new fiscal year began on October 1st, and as we move forward, you can count on us to continue to champion the work of our businesses in the Sarasota region. We have a long history, in fact 103 years of doing just that. We plan to continue to be an economic engine to represent, advocate and work tirelessly for our members and the business community in 2024.

Heather Kasten President/CEO

Changing of the Seasons and New Year for the Sarasota Chamber.

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

Isabella Alvarado Membership Coordinator ialvarado@sarasotachamber.com

(941) 556-4030

As we get ready for another productive season in Sarasota, there is much for our Chamber to look forward to and much for us to continue.

I am excited to continue working with Heather Kasten and her amazing team in my role as Board Chair. The voice of the Chamber has never been clearer and the membership experience never better. Your Chamber staff excels at organizing us for success and amplifying the results.

I am also eager to continue our vital policy work on affordable housing and mental wellness. These systemic issues challenge our community's greatest attributes. But the Chamber is all about solutions, so we will prioritize these complex community issues.

And they are community issues - which is why the Chamber should be out front in trying to solve them. When it comes to a strong community, the public, private, and nonprofit are equally important. The Chamber brings them together like no other organization in our region.

The name of this magazine - Bridge - is a metaphor for your Chamber. It is the best place to connect, across sectors, for businesses that want to do well so their community does well. I look forward to seeing you at a Chamber event soon.

Teri A Hansen, Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation Chairman of the Board

Maggie Burton Executive Assistant mburton@sarasotachamber.com

(941) 556-4051

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

Christine Seaman Accounting Coordinator accounting@sarasotachamber.com

(941) 556-4053

Lisa Wood Event Coordinator lwood@sarasotachamber.com

(941) 955-8187

CHAMPIONING EXCELLENCE: CELEBRATING THE BEST IN SMALL BUSINESS

The 33rd Frank G. Berlin, Sr. Small Business Awards, which took place on Friday, June 23 at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota, marked an extraordinary celebration of entrepreneurial spirit and accomplishment, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening that underscored the pivotal role small businesses play in driving economic growth. The event illuminated a diverse array of success stories that spanned industries and showcased the resilience, innovation, and determination of small business owners. With a vibrant atmosphere filled with networking opportunities, inspiring speeches, and recognition of outstanding achievements, the event left an incredible mark, reinforcing the notion that small businesses are the backbone of our economy and a source of limitless inspiration.

BUILD YOUR BUSINESS

MONTHLY EVENTS

Thursday, October 19

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

Miss Clara Boat Tours

Thursd ay, December 21

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

The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime

Wednesday, October 18

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

Topic: Creating a Well-Rounded Marketing Strategy

The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce

P OWE R HOUR Lunc h

Wednesday, October 11 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Thursday, November 16 7:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.

DutchCrafters

S TAT E

OF THE

Thursday, December 7 11:30 a.m. - 1:15 p.m.

Topic: Sarasota School Board Update

Carlisle Inn - Sarasota

Rodizio Grill Sarasot a

W ednesday, November 8 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Stay Tuned !

W ednesday, December 6 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Stay Tune d!

Scan to register!

SIGNATURE EVENTS

Friday, October 20 8:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Sarasota Trap, Skeet & Clay's

Presented by: Tommy's Express Car Wash

Friday, October 27 11:30 a.m. - 1:15 p.m.

The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota

Presented by: Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, LLP

CAREEREDGE

Big Check Presentations

Empowering Progress: Transforming Futures Through Upskilling Workers Grants! CareerEdge Funders Collaborative, in partnership with the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, is thrilled to announce $205,000 in grants to support local employers. These grants mark a bold step towards equipping individuals with the skills needed to excel in today's dynamic job landscape. By fostering growth and adaptability, CareerEdge is driving economic prosperity for both workers and businesses. Through these transformative grants, CareerEdge is paving the way for sustainable careers, enhanced mobility, and a resilient workforce that meets the demands of the future. Over the upcoming months, CareerEdge will continue to honor other grantees of the Upskilling Workers Grant. Stay connected with CareerEdge Collaborative on social media for more Big Check Presentations and program updates.

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.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL

OFA 2023 Summer Internship

The 2023 Opportunities For All (OFA) Summer Internship, which ran from June 1st to August 1st, was a transformative journey marked by growth and achievement. This enriching eight-week summer program reached its pinnacle with the Internship Celebration Dinner held at the Carlisle-Inn on August 1st. This event was not only a festivity of accomplishments but also a testament to the symbiotic nature of the OFA Summer Internship program. Designed to provide a win-win opportunity for local employers, OFA brings a diverse pool of interns to contribute their brilliance and talent to the professional work world. This exchange doesn't just enrich the employers; it plays a pivotal role in fostering community and economic growth. It's noteworthy that employers participating in the OFA program are fully funded, underscoring the program's commitment to fostering opportunity and prosperity at every level. The heart of the 2023 OFA Internship experience lies in its ability to empower budding leaders, enabling them to embrace their potential while invigorating the local professional landscape.

Internship Kick-Off

Internship Celebration Dinner

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

DEVELOPMENTS

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS GROUP

2023 YP Summit: Balancing Success!

Balancing Success: Highlights from the 2023 YP Summit! Our August 18th event, presented by Kerkering, Barberio & Co., was a triumph of insightful discussions and inspiring connections. Mitch Lomazov, our brilliant keynote speaker, ignited countless 'aha' moments with his wisdom. Our guest speakers: Jacquelyn O'Shaughnessy & Lemuel Rojas, Candice Henry & Lauren Henry, Jeremy Shelby, and Jill Bowen shared their unique perspectives and helped pave the way for achieving balance in our journey towards success. In addition to our amazing speakers, time was spent honoring the two recipients of the Young Professional of the Year Award, Evan Samson of DMSI and Tiona Settles of CenterPlace Health.

Thank you to our YPG Summit Sponsors!

Save the Date for These Unforgettable Events

YPG After Hours at The Westin

Thursday, November 2nd, 2023 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

YPG After Hours at Aloft Sarasota

Thursday, January 4th, 2023

Thank You Annual YPG Sponsors:

LEADERSHIP SARASOTA

Congratulations to the 2024 Adult Leadership Class!

A Journey of Growth and Discovery

Adult Leadership Sarasota kicked off on Wednesday, September 6th, with an inspiring Orientation Day at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. This event was a fantastic way for participants to dive into all the exciting activities they're going to experience during the program year. Not only did attendees get to meet their fellow classmates, but they also got to introduce themselves, creating a super friendly and collaborative atmosphere.

During the Orientation, they covered the schedule for the year, and the intriguing topics they'll be diving into. Participants gained valuable insights into how this program can significantly enhance their personal and professional abilities, leaving everyone eagerly anticipating the transformative journey ahead. This is a prime chance to enhance their leadership skills and gain a thorough understanding of our community's inner workings.

We're excited to witness the growth and success of these emerging leaders in the coming months. To stay updated on all things Leadership Sarasota, be sure to follow us on social media!

Thank You Annual Leadership Sponsors:

CORPORATE CORNER

Jim Schaffner

“Our goal is to advance the mission of the college and our medical assets. ”

Position: General Manager

Company: WSRQ Radio

Q: What is one business advice you would give to local entrepreneurs? Success requires passion and commitment. I am old school. I think about our business and how we get better every day. You cannot part time your way to success. When I was in practice I joked, but practiced it, that while the competition sleeps I work. Furthermore, you cannot wade into services that you do not understand. Many business owners venture into products or services without fully understanding the markets and risks. Most were and are unsuccessful. I always stay in my lane.

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

I was a Forensic CPA for years. I knew there were many synergies between what I did in practice and now in radio. You have to be unique, clever, and convincing. We built WSRQ from scratch since our inception December 2018. We acquired a station in Zollo Springs and another in Port Charlotte and synced these together. We are the equivalent of a 50,000 watt station that covers a lot of geography from Palmetto and Bradenton, to the heartland, and to south of Punta Gorda. We have become a market favorite in a very short period of time. I expect continued growth, as I sense a paradigm shift in radio. It appears to me listeners may be preferring non-commercial versus commercial stations because of all of the commercials. We play a lot of the great tunes of the 60s, 70s, and 80s with 3,500 in our active rotation. We fit perfectly in the market. We partnered with GM Jeff Benninhoff (another CPA) and ABC7 and feature their news and weather. We take you back to the good times when life was free and easy. Our goal is to advance the mission of the college and our medical assets. We do accept underwriters that are limited to 15 second spots with no call to action or qualitative statements. We brand our underwriters.

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENTS

CORPORATE CORNER

We are just beginning our 2023-24 academic year. But the past year has been a busy and fulfilling one. This past spring, Ringling College celebrated our largest-ever graduating class of 377, including our inaugural graduating class of Entertainment Design. Our summer PreCollege program was a huge success and we welcomed 216 high school students for a four-week, residential experience. This fall we welcomed a new class of over 500, and of course our returning students, all talented artists and designers, for a total enrollment of over 1700 students.

In January, we opened the much-anticipated Cunniffe Commons. This state-of-the-art dining facility and event space offers innovative menu options and provides a great space for students and employees alike to meet or relax. Our seven Campus Galleries hosted 20 exhibitions, featuring the work of faculty, staff, students, and visiting artists. In May, we formally welcomed the Ringling College Library Association (RCLA) as a department of the College, and look forward to continuing the same lineup of terrific Town Hall speakers and programming.

Over at the Ringling College Museum Campus (the site of the historic Sarasota High School), Sarasota Art Museum’s unique, contemporary exhibitions are currently on view. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Ringling College welcomed over 920 members who registered for non-credit classes, lectures, and tours. Between Jazz Thursdays, studio classes, the Bistro, and Shop—there is never a dull moment at the College’s Museum Campus.

I am so grateful for the overwhelming support Ringling College receives—mostly from this wonderful community. This year, $16 million was raised for scholarship, programmatic, and capital support. Our Avant-Garde event in March was our most successful ever, raising over $900k net for student scholarships. Upcoming plans for a new Signature Academic Building, which will house several of our tech-based majors, and a new residence hall are currently in process.

At Ringling College, we believe that art and design can only exist and thrive through diversity. We support a multicultural student body from nearly 60 countries and almost every U.S. state. It has been an honor to lead this incredible institution for almost 25 years and to continue the College’s legacy as a welcoming and empowering community for all—just like our greater Sarasota community.

Dr. Larry R. Thompson President Ringling College of Art and Design

Interior of Cunniffe Commons

Richard and Barbara Basch Visual Arts Center

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

June 2023 - August 2023

Please help us in welcoming the following new members joining our Chamber family! We are excited to have these talented individuals and businesses join our vibrant community, and we look forward to fostering strong connections and collaboration with them as we continue to grow and thrive together.

360 Legal, Inc.

AC Heroes LLC

ALSO Youth Inc.

American Vocational Academy

ArchWell Health

Bay Area Apartment Association

Bequest Funds

BESO

Blue Collar Roofing

Boat Owners Warehouse

Chai Connections Coaching and Consulting

Chiles Hospitality

Clarity Financial Design

Coldwell Banker - The May Group

Community Day School

Corsica Partners LLC

Crave Kitchens

Crimson Strategic Solutions

Curaleaf

CYCLEBAR Siesta Key

DecoCrete Services

Dentists of Stickney Point

EDGE Cabinetry | Interior Design | Closets

Fastest Labs of Sarasota

FASTSIGNS of Sarasota, FL

Fin & Tonic

Finch Roof Consulting

FireFly Marketing

Fleming's Steakhouse & Wine Bar

Fleur Koko LLC

Fly Dance Fitness

Forza Wealth Management

Futra Solutions

Grace Direct Primary Care

Grey Matters: Precision Brain Health Centers

Grifols

Hand In Hand Care

Harmony Harbor Counseling & Wellness, LLC

Harry E. Robbins Associates, Inc.

Human Interaction Consulting LLC

Incarnation Catholic School

Key Roofing & Exteriors LLC

Kolucan Mexican Bar & Grill

La Chic Boheme

MADabolic SRQ

MamaZen

MIG Express LLC

Mother Kombucha LLC

New Day Collections

New York Life Insurance Company

NIFT LLC

Pam Hogan Homes, LLC

d/b/a SRQ Condo Queen

Paul's Rides 4 U, LLC

Playa Bowls

Point South Realty

Polish Care Services

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

June 2023 - August 2023

Please help us in welcoming the following new members joining our Chamber family! We are excited to have these talented individuals and businesses join our vibrant community, and we look forward to fostering strong connections and collaboration with them as we continue to grow and thrive together.

PrimeGroup Insurance

Reliable Marble Care, LLC

Results 1st RIDE Cycle

S.Ly Architecture

Sarasota County School District

Sarasota Sports Medicine

Siesta Roofing

Signature Premier Properties

Social Equity Through Education Alliance

Solutions 4 Seniors

Southface Sarasota

Sparkling Kleen Pools & Spas

Sterling Tax & Accounting

Taylor-Bos Books LLC

Teasdale Fenton Cleaning and Property

Restoration of Sarasota

The Coastal Concierge

The Twig Cares, Inc.

The Wedding Town

Unbridled Air

VeraData

Veteran Air

Wexler Marketing

CELEBRATING THE BIG MOMENTS

June 2023 - August 2023

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

June 2023

July 2023

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!

August 2023

To stay updated on the latest Sarasota ribbon-cutting events, be sure to connect with us on social media! Don't miss out on the exciting moments as we celebrate new business openings and community milestones.

Greater Sarasota Chamber

The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce

greatersarasotachamber

The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce

1945 Fruitville Road

Sarasota, FL 34236