941CEO September/October 2017

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SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2017

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THE HALO EFFECT

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WHY SHOPPING CENTERS ARE RETHINKING RETAIL COV1

GROWING YOUR ASSETS

JAN MILLER

Executive Vice President and Trust Officer

TONY BLASINI, CPC, QPA Vice President Employee Benefits

R.G. “KELLY” CALDWELL, JR.

WENDY L . FISHMAN Executive Vice President Senior Trust Officer

CEO, President and Senior Trust Officer

SANDRA L. PEPPER Senior Vice President and Trust Officer

TRUSTS & ESTATES

Ensuring your wealth fulfills your goals for the future.

H. LEE THACKER JR., CFP

Senior Executive Vice President, Secretary and Trust Officer

Assistant Vice President and Trust Officer

J. CHRIS MCGEE, CFA CAIA

JOHN L. TUFARO

SONYA KRISTIE

Assistant Vice President and Trust Officer

SCOTT T. ANTRITT

Vice President of Investments

INVESTMENTS

Growing your wealth and making it work for you.

Assistant Vice President, Employee Benefit Plans

RETIREMENT

Preparing you for tomorrow on your terms.

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September / October 2017

CONTENTS

6

Talk

SOCIAL 32 CLIMBING

PROVEN STRATEGIES TO CAPITALIZE ON SOCIAL MEDIA.

Stuff you need to know, including six micro accessories with macro payoffs, making your website accessible to the disabled and how a travel agency is thriving in a web world.

12

You Do What?

You may not recognize Paul Anthony, but chances are you know his voice.

20

Property Watch

Why Realtors hate Zestimates.

63

Biz Bites

Where to dine on the company credit card.

64

Love This Stuff

Execs share their latest obsessions.

22 26

66

SMART GIVING

What I’ve Learned

RETHINKING RETAIL

Fast Track

How businesses are making philanthropy pay off.

As malls and other retail centers struggle, Westfield Siesta Key scores with reinvention.

From politics to pro baseball, Lucy Calautti swings for the fences.

68

Movers, shakers and headline makers.

72

LEFT: VGST. RIGHT: PEPE NIETO

The Seen

ADVERTISING SECTION Guide to Giving

39

941CEO.com Check out our website, featuring new and archived articles, and sign up for our e-newsletter, BizDaily.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2017

People and events in pictures.

76

ARE YOUR CORPORATE SPONSORSHIPS PAYING OFF? OVER THE YEARS, I’ve sat on a few nonprofit boards and committees, and I was occasionally tasked with calling companies to ask them to sponsor an event. I’d take a deep breath, cross my fingers and deliver the pitch, acutely aware that I was not cut out for nonprofit development work.

But I’ve also been on the other side of the fence. 941CEO and Sarasota Magazine, our sister publication, receive calls every week from nonprofits seeking sponsorships. And just like you, we have to choose which events and initiatives best fit our company mission and contribute to the community that sustains us. Last year alone, we partnered with 66 nonprofits, but there are hundreds of others worthy of support.

Fortunately, there are guidelines to help you structure sponsorships that benefit both your company and the charity. As one expert told us, “The days of showing up with a logo, a check and a message of good luck are over.” In Ilene Denton’s cover story “Smart Giving,” you’ll see how three other companies forged winning strategies and learn the questions to ask before committing time, money and talent to a sponsorship.

This issue also offers tips for mastering social media. Yes, we know that your business is on Facebook, but it’s not enough just to have a page. You have to engage with your current customers while constantly attracting more.

Vicki Dean’s “Social Climbing” offers a quick course in using this increasingly important medium and indispensable marketing tool.

Off the Clock

Sarasota attorney David Wyant is winning raves as a rowing announcer.

3

Mariash Lowther Wealth Management Brian J. Mariash Senior Vice President – Wealth Management Wealth Management Advisor 941.364.5678

ADVERTISING & MARKETING

J. Barton Lowther Senior Financial Advisor Portfolio Advisor

GROUP PUBLISHER Kelley Lavin

941.364.5695

Debra Clark Maradiaga, Sandy Moore

Merrill Lynch 1819 Main Street, Suite 1200 Sarasota, FL 34241

Amy Fitzgibbons

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Kim Davis,

Dan Starostecki ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES ADVERTISING SERVICES MANAGER MARKETING AND EVENTS MANAGER

Sarah Beattie EDITORIAL

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EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Pam Daniel EDITOR-IN-CHIEF 941CEO Susan Burns EDITOR-IN-CHIEF 941CEO David Hackett SENIOR EDITOR Ilene Denton SENIOR EDITOR Kay Kipling

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Investment products:

Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value © 2016 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

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ASSOCIATE EDITOR Cooper Levey-Baker WEB EDITOR Megan McDonald

ART CREATIVE DIRECTOR Gigi Ortwein ART DIRECTORS Pepe Nieto, Janine Gevas MARKETING DESIGNER Michael Cronin

PRODUCTION PRODUCTION MANAGER Guy Vilt SALES & PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

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Emma Burke BUSINESS ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE Diana Clenney IT SPECIALIST Shawn Lamb DISTRIBUTION MANAGER David Moreau

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FOUNDER EMERITUS Dan Denton

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89.7

a service of the University of South Florida

4

watch, listen & learn

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Su Byron, Vicki Dean, Isaac Eger, Kim Hackett, Justine Griffin, Ruth Lando, Dennis Maley, Jackie Rogers, Anu Varma, Hannah Wallace, Sylvia Whitman CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS & ARTISTS Barbara Banks, Salvatore Brancifort, Chad Spencer, Robert Castro, Alex Stafford, Lori Sax, Jenn Soos, Everett Dennison, Evan Sigmund, Matthew Holler, Chris Lake, Gene Pollux, Fred Lopez, Victor Juhasz, Vincent Dale

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DIRECTOR, AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT

Becca Hersh DIRECTOR, DIGITAL OPERATIONS & DEVELOPMENT Dan Derozier

Gulf Shore Media is a member of the City and Regional Magazine Association, Florida Magazine Association, the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, Manatee Chamber of Commerce and The St. Armands Circle Association.

All contents of this magazine are copyrighted ©2017. Unsolicited photographs and manuscripts are welcome, but return cannot be guaranteed. Circulation audited by U.S. Postal Service. Advertisements in this publication do not constitute an offer for sale in states where prohibited or restricted by law.

941CEO adheres to American Society of Magazine Editors guidelines, which require a clear distinction between editorial content and paid advertising or marketing messages.

n e ss Top busi e 941 th stories in d to delivere ily! a d x o b in r yo u RIB SUBSC TO

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BIZ

Y L I DA FREE ER SLETT E-N E W

941ceo.com/newsletters SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2017

5

PEOPLE, COMPANIES AND ISSUES YOU NEED TO KNOW. 8 BIZ RULES // 10 BUSINESS CLASS // 20 PROPERTY WATCH

INNOVATORS

DIGITAL TRACKERS

Steve Flee and Ken Bond co-founded marketing and analytics firm AdRizer.

A

dRizer co-founders Steve Flee, 34, and Ken Bond, 30, run a Sarasota-based tech company with 20 employees, $15 million in 2016 revenues and an international client roster.

The company is also a finalist in GrowFL’s statewide Companies to Watch contest this October. When they started in 2013, they just wanted extra cash for Jet Skis. “If you asked us three years ago, we never would have thought that we would be where we’re at,” Flee says.

TALK

AdRizer takes clients’ content and measures how much revenue that content generates on different media such as Facebook and Google AdWords.

Many of their clients are print and digital publishers. For example, newspapers on their own are able to monitor how many readers click on an article. But AdRizer offers a much deeper dive, showing how many readers clicked on advertisements that appeared alongside the post, which can help publishers better determine what content is making money. AdRizer also measures what clients spend promoting their content on each platform, a return on investment metric that is unique to AdRizer, Bond says.

Bond, who’s from Sarasota, met Flee, who moved from Ohio, when they worked for a Sarasota advertising company. They created AdRizer after work—partly to avoid the hot Sarasota summers—

sitting at Bond’s kitchen counter.

This fall, AdRizer is moving into a 5,000-square-foot space at the BOTA Center in the Rosemary District.

Digital marketing analytics is a fast-growing industry that is always changing, and one of the biggest challenges Bond and Flee faced was drawing young web developers to Sarasota.

Fortunately, Bond says, a growing tech industry here and in Tampa Bay has led to strong hires within a 100-mile radius. AdRizer now employs five web developers.

The pair, who often scoot around town on electric skateboards, still haven’t bought the Jet Skis. “We just haven’t had the time,” Bond says.—Rick Morgan

6

JENN SOOS

Ken Bond and Steve Flee 941CEO

STEVE HALL

CEBS, CSFS, CHRP Market President

ALLTRUSTINSURANCE.COM | 941-713-6187

TALK BIZ RULES

Is Your Website Accessible to the Disabled?

The Trump administration shelved the ADA website guidelines, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. ●● BY SUSAN BURNS

Adding to the confusion, no standards for website compliance have been adopted. The Department of Justice was supposed to create the rules for website compliance in 2018, but the Trump administration derailed that in July, putting website rulemaking on the “inactive” list.

So does that mean businesses are off the hook? No, says Jan Pietruszka, a Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick attorney who handles accessibility lawsuits. One reason for the avalanche of lawsuits and demand letters is the uncertainty about how to comply. “It keeps everything in limbo,” he says. “Attorneys will still have to litigate what’s acceptable.”

For now, most of these ADA lawsuits have focused on government agencies

8

E-commerce is now a target of American Disability Act lawsuits.

and large businesses, such as banks and the Kmarts and Targets of the world. Federal judges are ruling both ways. Domino’s Pizza, unlike WinnDixie, won its case this summer, leaving businesses in a sea of confusion.

But the trend is toward ADA website compliance, says Pietruszka. “It’s only a matter of time before any business with a website is targeted,” he says.

Large companies have the resources to go to court, but Pietruszka says it’s often cheaper to fix your website.

“Most companies are settling and moving on,” Pietruszka says. “We got the demand letter [for one client], engaged the website expert, fixed

the website pretty quickly and fixed it for less than the plaintiff’s attorney demanded.”

Pietruszka says businesses should get a head start on compliance. “Do the analysis, see how much it costs, complete some phases [of the retrofit], but start on a plan. We know the standards are coming,” he says.

And, in the long run, website compliance is the right thing to do and may work to a business’ advantage. “It’s a lot like the physical accommodations,” Pietruszka says. “It’s a good idea. It’s good for business to have as many people come through the door as possible.”

Where to Go For Web Content Guidelines The best set of standards to use as a reference are the Level AA standards, which are a part of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (“WCAG2.0”), published by the World Wide Web Consortium (“W3C”), www.w3.org/TR/WCAG20/. SOURCE: ROB KOENIG, ATTORNEY AT SHUMAKER, LOOP & KENDRICK, LLP

941CEO

ZLIKOVEC/SHUTTERSTOCK

THE FEDERAL 1990 Americans With Disabilities Act says public accommodations must be accessible to the disabled. Initially just a concern for brick-and-mortar establishments, the government and ADA advocates eventually turned to websites as businesses began to sell goods and services online. In the last several years, a surge of demand letters and lawsuits have been filed alleging violations. For example, Winn-Dixie lost its case in a Florida federal court this summer when a blind man could not use the supermarket chain’s website. The man alleged that Winn-Dixie was not using the standard screen reader software.

One Donor 35 Innovative After-School Programs 200 Perfect Attendance Records 600 Better Report Cards

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Call us today, (941) 955-3000. cfsarasota.org

TALK BUSINESS CLASS ● BY JACKIE ROGERS

IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS

Portable accessories that make life easier.

FOLDABLE FLATS Keeping a pair of foldable flats in your office tote can rescue you from a long day in heels.

Crafted from fine Italian leather and designed to form to your foot, Tieks offer great style and comfort with a cushioned rubber sole for shock absorption. The snakeskin print is great for all season wear.

These flats slip into a tiny pouch that can be tucked into your carry-on or small purse. | $295. tieks.com.

10

INVERTED UMBRELLA Who hasn’t ended up soaked after closing an umbrella and throwing it in the car? Tooge redesigned this 4,000-year-old necessity with some out-of-the-box thinking. Its wind-resistant Travel Inverted Umbrella is a double fabric umbrella that folds up instead of down, trapping water inside. The umbrella closes with the press of a button as you slip into your car without keeping the door wide open. You and your car seat finally can stay dry. Stands up by itself and has a C-shaped handle that slips over your wrist to let you stand in the rain and still utilize your smart phone with both hands. | $24.99 Bed, Bath & Beyond.

941CEO

STRAPPY HAPPY PHONE SLING POCKETMONKEY Multipurpose tools make your world a little easier when a problem arises away from home. The PocketMonkey multi-tool from Zootility comes with gizmos from a screwdriver to a set of hex wrenches to a bottle opener. Crafted of heat-treated stainless steel to prevent rusting, this little monkey is thin enough to fit in your wallet. TSA approved. | Deluxe PocketMonkey $12, also at Molly’s A Chic and Unique Boutique.

No more juggling your phone, your keys and your favorite latte thanks to this nifty cell phone sling from Tech Candy.

Made from soft woven fabric, this little device uses eco-friendly silicone straps to hold any size smart phone with or without a case. The adjustable strap can be worn comfortably around your neck or as a crossbody. Wear it anytime you need your hands free and your phone at the ready.

Comes in multiple colors. | $14, from Molly’s A Chic and Unique Boutique.

SWIFTPOINT GT MOUSE SLIM VIEW READERS Compact and sophisticated best describe Slim View Readers. The slim lightweight design makes them the perfect size for slipping into a small clutch or inside a suit jacket pocket. The frames are manufactured using an extremely lightweight, high-density material along with impact-resistant clear lens. Slim Views are available with seven power magnification levels starting at + 1.00 up to + 2.50. | Sunglass Optical Express. $40.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2017

This tiny mouse is just the thing to simplify your daily work experience and help you avoid hand fatigue after a full day at the computer. Ergonomically engineered to simulate holding a pen, this mouse weighs just under an ounce and works with any size hand. Rechargeable through a USB port, the mouse works for two weeks on one charge. Comes with a customized case and small magnetic track pad perfect for travel. | Compatible with Microsoft and Mac, $149 on swiftpoint.com.

11

TALK YOU DO WHAT? ● BY DAVID HACKETT

A VOICE THAT CARRIES Paul Anthony is a testament to the commercial possibilities in the adage, “It’s not just what you say, it’s how you say it.” Anthony is a voice actor whose mostly unseen presence has supplied the narration for scores of public and corporate programs, commercials, events and, for his great passion, jazz radio shows and concerts. He recently marked his 50th anniversary as the announcer for Washington Week, the longest-running political program on public television. Now living much of the year in downtown Sarasota, Anthony sat down with 941CEO to talk about his profession.

Voice actor Paul Anthony “I got my start in 1964 as the recently marked 50 years chief announcer for a Washington, D.C., as the announcer for the television station, WETA. I had just PBS public affairs program graduated from Georgetown and found Washington Week. myself making four times more than my hard-working father ever made selling women’s shoes at his shop in Rochester, New York. My mother couldn’t understand it. ‘Paul,’ she’d say, ‘they are paying you this much for reading?’ And I’d tell her, ‘Mom, there’s reading and then there’s reading.’”

“I’ve done work for TV and radio stations in Washington, D.C., New York, Texas, Wisconsin, Indiana, Michigan, as well as in numerous commercials and corporate events. Twenty-four years ago, I did the iconic promo for New York City’s 1010 WINS news radio station, which includes the phrase, ‘You give us 22 minutes, we’ll give you the world.’ If you live in New York, you would have had to have been in a coma not to have heard it. It runs three times an hour, 24 hours a day. It’s only nine seconds long, but it’s been providing me a paycheck every 13 weeks since the early 1990s.

(Continued on page 14) 12

941CEO

COURTESY OF PBS; TANHAUZER/SHUTTERSTOCK

For more than half a century, voice actor Paul Anthony has enlivened the airwaves.

asolorep

NOV 14–DEC 30

17-18 season Ana Isabelle is Evita. Photo by John Revisky.

(Continued from page 12) “The other thing that really made my career was Washington Week. I’m the last original member still working on it. In 50 years, I’ve missed fewer than a handful of shows, all due to illness. It’s so much easier these days because I can fit all the equipment I need into a suitcase and I can essentially record anywhere. I once recorded for Washington Week aboard the Queen Mary in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.”

“I call what I do ‘voice acting’ because it’s more than just reading a script. My voice is an instrument. From the 1970s to the early 1990s, I did those political commercials that were

METRIC understood the import of it. I look at it that God gave me a gift. What better way to share it?”

“You realize how much in life comes down to chance. I never thought about being an announcer.

My passion was always jazz. Not long after I graduated from Georgetown, I was fired from a nightclub that could no longer afford me. I was walking through campus the next day wondering what would become of my life when I bumped into Father Dan Power, a Georgetown professor who was on the board of the fledgling public television station WETA. He helped me land a job as WETA’s

Rising valuations Taxable property valuations continue to increase in Sarasota and Manatee counties. Here are the total valuations filed in July and how they compare to the previous two years: Sarasota County 2017 2016 2015

$54.6 billion $50.4 billion

$46.6 billion

Manatee County 2017 2016 2015

$33.2 billion $30.6 billion

$28.2 billion

SOURCE: SARASOTA AND MANATEE COUNTY PROPERTY APPRAISERS OFFICES

OVERHEARD

so popular at the time, speaking the first part in a tone that cast suspicion on the opposing candidate and the final part shifting into a trusting, modulation to describe the candidate who was paying me. If my voice was a picture, the first 15 seconds you would see me scowling and the final 15 seconds I would be smiling.”

“Ultimately, it’s about communicating. I take great pride in clarity and enunciation. For many years, I’ve been a lector, including at St. Martha’s Catholic Church in Sarasota. Afterwards, people who don’t have a clue what I do professionally come up and tell me that they not only heard everything I read but that they 14

announcer, where I not only found my calling, I also met Joanne, my wife of the last 49 years and the mother of our three children.”

“I’ve appeared in front of the camera as well, including 20 years as a weatherman in Washington, D.C. In the late 1980s, I appeared on the McNeil-Lehrer News Hour reading the transcript of President Ronald Reagan’s testimony in the Iran-Contra case. There was no video of Reagan’s testimony. Jim Lehrer introduced me by saying the testimony of President Reagan will be read by actor Paul Anthony. I read the transcript from a podium. It must have lasted five or six minutes. I’ll never forget it.”

– H E C T O R H . S A N D O VA L director of the Economic Analysis Program at UF’s Bureau of Economic and Business Research, on July’s Florida consumer sentiment reading of 97.7, which was the second-highest reading since March 2002.

941CEO

COURTESY OF PBS

Panelists in the early days of Washington Week.

“Floridians are more optimistic. The gain in July’s sentiment came from consumers’ future expectations about the economy in the medium and long run. Remarkably, these positive expectations are shared by Floridians across all demographics and economic levels. Women, people 60 and older, and those with annual income under $50,000 held very positive views about their personal finance situation.”

Where Others See Barriers, She Sees Breakthroughs When Dr. Tanya Schreibman, Medical Director of Community AIDS Network’s Sarasota Comprehensive Care Center, sees patients at our clinic, she’s helping to break down the barriers to a level of care that everyone deserves. While developing and overseeing our clinical trials program, she’s part of an effort that’s leading to breakthroughs proving effective in controlling HIV and its co-infections – providing hope that one day they will be eradicated.

You can help. Visit cccsrq.org.

1231 North Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota, Florida 34237 (941) 366-0461 cccsrq.org

Comprehensive Care Center Inc., dba Community AIDS Network, is a GuideStar Platinum Participant

TALK

Still Tripping How a local travel agent stays relevant in the era of online everything. ●● BY COOPER LEVEY-BAKER

T

rip Advisor. Kayak. Orbitz.

Momondo. Travelocity. Expedia.

Hotwire. Airbnb. With so many resources a click away, what advantages does a travel agent still offer?

Plenty, contend Ryan and Malaka Hilton, the husband-and-wife team who own Sarasota’s Admiral Travel.

In the 20 years since the couple founded Admiral, they’ve developed close ties with hotel managers, airline officials and tour guides in every corner of the globe. Those connections make for one-of-a-kind experiences and upgrades you can’t book online. And problems can be solved with a single phone call. Not satisfied with the view from the room that your hotel in Zimbabwe just gave you?

Give Admiral a ring and the company’s on-call staff will get the manager on the horn.

16

Ryan and Malaka are two of 200 travel agents working between North Port and Bradenton, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Their company has thrived as the overall travel agent industry has been jolted by online competition. In 1997, the year Admiral was founded, America was home to 117,000 travel agents.

By 2012, that number had dropped by almost half, to less than 65,000, but the industry has, perhaps counterintuitively, begun to tick back up. There were almost 69,000 travel agents working in America in 2016.

Admiral’s trips aren’t cheap (a seven-day trip averages somewhere between $4,500 and $5,500), but the firm concentrates on providing value to its clients. Their customers don’t mind spending large amounts on memorable adventures. Having someone who’s

ready to iron out snafus—assisting with everything from lost passports to ill tour guides—is a major benefit of working with a travel agent.

The relationship between the agent and the client is paramount. Roughly 80 percent of Admiral’s clients are repeat customers, people who had a blast on an Admiral trip to Africa and are now asking about one of the company’s trips to Cuba. About half of the company’s clients live in Sarasota or are snowbirds; another 40 percent come from California and New York; and the last 10 percent or so live abroad in countries such as Mexico, the United Arab Emirates and England.

Many come to Admiral with general ideas for possible trips—a safari, a visit to the pyramids, a trip to Japan— and then work with the Admiral staff to map out an exact itinerary.

“The great thing about Admiral is they really get to know you,” says Sarasota’s Dick Rivera, who worked for years in the corporate restaurant world and now co-owns downtown’s Brick’s Smoked Meats. Rivera and his wife, Leslie, go on Admiral-assisted trips two to three times a year and have been using the company for more than a decade. “They ask for feedback early on. ‘How’d you like this hotel?’ ‘How was this guide?’ They know what we like,” says Rivera.

They also respond with a “sense of urgency,” he says. “If anything is going wrong, we can call or send an email and they will jump on it immediately.”

Since Admiral prizes ongoing business and word-of-mouth connections, online marketing and search engine optimization aren’t priorities. They’re not trying to compete with Expedia and they aren’t trying to reach customers Googling for information.

Admiral asks for a non-refundable $500 deposit before even meeting with a new client so the staff can be assured that clients are committed to (Continued on page 18) 941CEO

RED MONKEY/SHUTTERSTOCK

TOURISM BEAT

What You See IS What You Gave

When you give through Gulf Coast, you help create the community you want to see. Like one where a thriving innovation economy powers business and provides more opportunity for all. Whatever your passion, together we can turn your vision into reality.

What Do You See? Let us know, so together we can make it happen.

941.486.4600 | GulfCoastCF.org

TALK TOURISM BEAT

CRUNCHING NUMBERS

(Continued from page 16) a trip and not just hunting for information to book a tour on their own.

“We are very protective of our intellectual property,” Malaka says.

Admiral also focuses on providing experiences their clients can’t get elsewhere. “Today, travelers are adventurers,” Ryan says. The company is seeing an uptick in clients interested in active trips that include long hiking excur-

That’s the Ticket THIS SUMMER, AMERICANS FOR THE ARTS released “Arts & Economic Prosperity 5,” its latest look at how the arts mean business in the United States. The study compiled data in fiscal year 2015 from 341 geographic areas (cities, counties and multicounty regions) across the country, including all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Out of the 115 counties surveyed, Sarasota ranks 13th in the nation for how much money arts organizations and their patrons spend in a community; Manatee ranks 52. Here’s a snapshot of our region: The Greater Sarasota/ Bradenton Area

Sarasota*

Manatee

DIRECT ECONOMIC ACTIVITY BY ARTS AND CULTURAL ORGANIZATIONS AND AUDIENCES $342.4 million

$295 million, up from $180 million in fiscal year (FY) 2010

$47.4 million

JOBS

sions, walking tours that allow them to blend in, behind-the-scenes experiences, tours that provide opportunities for great photography, trips that showcase authentic local food and culture and escorted tours to exotic locales clients wouldn’t venture to solo. Even pricey trips might not be as luxurious as they used to be; travelers today often enjoy taking public transportation or using Uber more than hiring a car and a driver, says Ryan.

Admiral’s business isn’t slowing down. The company has several trips booked for 2018 and has even received requests for 2019. Admiral made roughly 5,000 reservations for guests last year, for groups ranging in size from two to 48, and the company generated $14 million in revenue.

“It’s a great example of how a service business can survive in this era of technology,” says Rivera. It’s easy to book a trip online; it’s harder to get the details right. “If you only have so much time and so much of a budget, you don’t want to be making a mistake,” he says.

18

7,445 up from 4,579 in FY 2010

8,705

1,260

REVENUE GENERATION TO LOCAL GOVERNMENT $14.7 million

$12.5 million, up from $7.6 million in FY 2010

$2.2 million

REVENUE GENERATION TO STATE GOVERNMENT $23.5 million

$20 million, up from $12.5 million in FY 2010

$3.6 million

TOTAL ATTENDANCE AT ARTS AND CULTURAL EVENTS 3.6 million

2.5 million attendees, up from 2.3 million in FY 2010

1.1 million attendees

PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL ATTENDANCE THAT IS FROM RESIDENTS 68.2 percent

49.7 percent, down from 59.2 percent in FY 2010

63.3 percent

PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL ATTENDANCE THAT IS FROM NON-RESIDENTS 31.8 percent

50.3 percent, up from 40.8 percent in FY 2010

36.7 percent

AVERAGE SPENDING PER PERSON AT EVENT $36.31

$37.80, up from $21.70 in FY 2010

$29.60

* Sarasota was included in the “Arts & Economic Prosperity 4” report. Manatee and the greater region were not.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF ADMIRAL TRAVEL

An Admiral-organized African safari.

TALK PROPERTY WATCH

Local Realtors sympathize with plaintiffs in Zillow lawsuit. ●● BY DAVID HACKETT

R

yan Ackerman of The Ackerman Group real estate firm recently represented the owner of a home at 1541 Harbor Cay Lane on Longboat Key priced at $2.45 million. But Ackerman had a $250,000 problem: Zillow valued that home at $2.7 million.

“The owner kept coming back to Zillow’s estimates and saying we were pricing his home too low,” Ackerman says. “Zillow has become a frame of reference in real estate for buyers starting their search and sometimes for owners assessing the value of their homes.

But the truth is that Zillow’s estimates are often wrong, sometimes wrong by a lot.”

Zillow has transformed the real estate business since its founding in 2006. The company has data on more than 110 million homes in the United States. Zillow’s estimates, or “Zestimates,” as the company refers to them, have been a source of contention for years. The website realestatedecoded.com contends that the “typical Zillow Zestimate error is $14,000. But you don’t know if it’s $14,000 too high or $14,000 too low. And it gets worse because half the time Zestimates are off by more than $14,000, sometimes a lot more.”

Zillow is under new scrutiny after a family of homebuilders in Illinois filed suit in May, demanding Zillow take down its Zestimates 20

in Illinois and pay damages. It has since been refiled as a class-action lawsuit, giving it a much wider scope.

Zillow responds that its estimates are not appraisals and should not be taken as such. Nevertheless, the company says the estimates for most homes are within 5 percent of the sales price. Zillow is also offering $1 million to anyone who can significantly improve the algorithm from which Zillow generates its estimates.

That does not appease real estate professionals such as Ackerman, who contend that he has seen local properties that Zillow has over- or under-valued by 30 percent or more.

“One of the main problems is that Zillow does not take into account improvements a homeowner may have made to the interior of the home,” he says. “It’s just not an accurate tool to arrive at value. It penalizes homeowners in all kinds of ways.”

Xena Vallone, president of the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee, says the organization has not taken a formal position on the Zillow lawsuit. But she agrees with Ackerman that Zestimates can be an inaccurate way to value properties.

“Zillow is a marketing website,” Vallone says. “It’s not something to be relied on.”

Three Zillow Misses Realtor Ryan Ackerman says these three homes he recently represented show big differences between Zestimates and listing prices:

1. 1616 STANFORD LANE, a five-bedroom Sarasota bayfront home listed for $3.25 million.

Zestimate: $2.159 million, $1.09 million lower than the list price.

2. 340 S. PALM AVENUE, UNIT 10, SARASOTA: List price: $1.189 million. Zestimate: $1.319 million, $130,000 higher than the list price.

3. 1541 HARBOR CAY LANE, LONGBOAT KEY: List price: $2.45 million.

Zestimate: $2.7 million, $250,000 higher than the list price.

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IGOR KISSELEV/SHUTTERSTOCK

It’s Just An Estimate

PalmBall

MANGROVES in the MOONLIGHT d

Please join us

s at u r d ay, F e b r u a r y 3 , 2 0 1 8 for an elegant evening at bay Preserve on little sarasota bay.

Help save our cherished natural lands, forever. beneFiting

C o n s e rvat i o n F o u n d at i o n oF tHe gulF Coast 941-918-2100 www.conservationfoundation.com/thepalmball Now accepting table and ticket sponsorships for this exclusive event.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2017

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Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall executive director Mary Bensel and Wilde Automotive Group’s marketing director Tracy Pierce

SMART GIVING by

BARBARA BANKS

C

orporate charitable giving in the United States increased to $18.55 billion in 2016, according to the National Philanthropic Trust. In our region, much of that philanthropy comes in the form of sponsorships. Businesses large and small link with nonprofit organizations for lots of reasons. Maybe the CEO has a personal passion for a cause, or an organization aligns with a business—an eyeglass manufacturer, for example, working with a group that distributes glasses to the underserved. Other times, a valued customer might serve on the board of a community theater.

Regardless of the rationale, the most successful corporate sponsorships provide meaningful benefits for all parties: the company, its customers, the nonprofit organization and ultimately, the community. Here are three local companies and their benefactors who are making the most of corporate sponsorships.

ILENE DENTON

How three companies created win-win sponsorships.

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Photography by

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Wilde Lexus of Sarasota and the Van Wezel

M

ore than $400,000 in corporate sponsorships came to the city-owned Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall last year, says executive director Mary Bensel—a mix of cash and in-kind donations that includes hotel room nights for visiting artists, catering for special events and media advertising.

“Next to our subscribers, sponsors are the nearest and dearest to my heart,” says Bensel. She explains they make it possible for the hall to operate on 96 percent earned income— “unheard of” in the industry.

The Van Wezel’s longest-running corporate relationship is with Wilde Lexus of Sarasota. Since 2001, in exchange for cash contributions, the automotive dealership has had title sponsorship of the hall’s Broadway SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2017

Williams Parker attorney Robert “Doc” Benjamin, Opera executive director Richard Russell and Williams Parker attorney Jeff Troiano

series. (Bensel declined to quantify how much cash, out of concern that it might impact attracting other sponsors.)

In exchange, Wilde Lexus’ logo will go on the title page of programs at all 19 performances of eight Broadway touring productions this season. The Wilde logo also appears on the Van Wezel’s print and digital brochures, ticket envelopes, lobby banners, the video wall outside the box office and the electronic sign at 10th Street and Tamiami Trail. Wilde can display an automobile in front of the Van Wezel grounds on show days and at the hall’s preview party. On non-show days Wilde has the right to hold a car sale in the parking lot.

Bensel also recognizes Wilde Lexus in pre-show announcements; its reps occasionally appear on the

Van Wezel’s monthly TV show; and if visiting celebrities consent to meetand-greets, they are always invited.

Wilde Lexus reps get complimentary tickets to sponsored shows. If they want to buy additional tickets, they can go through a concierge service the Van Wezel offers. (Bensel says she even reaches out to producer contacts to help obtain Broadway tickets when the Wilde family visits New York.) They can entertain guests in the Founders Lounge, and the family has a designated parking space in the Van Wezel parking lot. The company also gets complimentary use of the hall during the season for, say, a holiday party or corporate meeting.

Tracy Pierce, the Wilde Automotive Group’s marketing director, says the Van Wezel partnership has burnished Wilde’s brand.

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“Consumers can tell when philanthropy is genuine and when it is forced,” says Pierce. “Your philanthropy ref lects your business and your personal interests. Staying true to yourself is key. At Wilde, we believe that the arts are a vital, lifeaffirming force in society and that all children should be given the opportunity to experience the arts in a personal way.”

Williams Parker and the Sarasota Opera

T

he blue-chip law firm of Williams Parker Harrison Dietz & Getzen has partnered with the Sarasota Opera since firm cofounder Bill Harrison joined the 24

Sarasota Opera’s board in 1992 at a client’s suggestion. Twenty-five years later, fellow attorney Robert “Doc” Benjamin serves as the opera company’s general counsel, and his colleague Jeff Troiano, an expert in wills, trusts and estates, is on call to help opera administrators and the board with any issues in that area.

In addition, the law firm gives cash donations to sponsor the annual opera gala and opening night.

“Of course there’s some direct benefit; we get to attend these events and we are getting face time with opera donors,” says Troiano, who says many domors have become clients. “But the real reason it’s beneficial is we care about the community and want to see it grow. A successful arts community

provides so many indirect benefits you can’t quantify.”

Having the law firm as a resource has been a great help, says Opera executive director Richard Russell.

For example, the Sarasota Opera received legal advice on best practices as the board revised its by-laws and also on the appropriate documentation for legacy gifts.

Plus, he says, the lawyers “fully operate in the life of the opera; Jeff has participated in our young professionals group, for example. They’re great advocates for the opera in the community.”

Williams Parker encourages its attorneys to serve nonprofits as board counsel, says Benjamin. “If we’re going to take a role, it’s much bet941CEO

WHAT TO ASK before you jump into a corporate sponsorship.

Erin Minor, executive director of Harvest House, and Gold Coast Eagle Distributing president John Saputo

ter for our firm if we take an active role where we can use our legal expertise.” His advice to colleagues: “Find something you’re passionate about and spend your time there; you’re better at what you’re doing when you do that.”

That’s certainly been his experience with the Sarasota Opera. “It’s a labor of love,” says Benjamin—“as long as they don’t ask Jeff or me to sing any arias.”

Gold Coast Eagle Distributing and Wounded Warriors Family Support

G

old Coast Eagle Distributing president John Saputo is passionate about serving military

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2017

veterans. A retired Marine colonel who saw three years of active duty and 28 years of reserve duty, he received the National Society of Daughters of the American Revolution’s highest award, the Medal of Honor, in 2014.

Through Gold Coast Eagle Distributing, Saputo supports the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, Wishes for Heroes, Wreaths Across America, Harvest House’s homeless veterans’ initiatives—“just about anything that comes to us that has to do with military,” says Gold Coast Eagle marketing director Hugh Shields.

This summer, Erin Minor, executive director of Harvest House, a housing and homeless services organization, contacted Saputo about supporting a fund-raising event to support transitional housing and social services for homeless vets.

“John was overwhelmed when he learned what we do,” she says.

“He told us, ‘Whatever you want to do, let us know.’ He opened his arms to raise awareness and funds for our program.”

Saputo says he throws his company’s support behind causes for military veterans because he has walked in their boots. “I can attest firsthand to the physical pain and mental stress a combat-trained serviceman endures—starting in boot camp, through each war, each battle, every miserable cold desert night and every sweltering desert day of heat,” he says.

Why support a veteran?

“This 1 percent of our population that puts their blood and heartbeat on the line for the other 99 percent is all that stands between you and the protection of our American way of life,” says Saputo. ■

Businesses are bombarded with requests for corporate sponsorships. Fifteen years ago, says Gail Bower of Bower & Co. Consulting, a Philadelphia-based revenue strategist for nonprofits and businesses, companies used to show up with nothing more than a check and a message of good luck. No longer. Corporate partnerships are now about “an exchange of value,” she says, and must be strategic. Bower advises businesses to consider asking these questions before, during and after signing on as a corporate partner:

BEFORE YOU BEGIN • What are you trying to accomplish by sponsoring? Make sure you’re reaching an audience that fits your mission and is passionate about the cause of the nonprofit.

• Are you prepared to invest for the longer term? It takes a few years to build up a name and traction and to figure out what works.

• Have you defined your purpose? For example, why do you want to support the arts or a children’s charity?

• What’s the return on investment you want to achieve?

DURING THE NEGOTIATION • Is this nonprofit going to be a good partner?

A good partner has a strong reputation and does what it says it’s going to do.

• Is the nonprofit creative? You want more than a bronze, silver or gold designation in the program book.

• Is the nonprofit allowing you to co-create?

The nonprofit understands its event or initiative; the business understands its purpose. Both parties must work together to be effective.

• Are you willing to invest additional resources if needed?

• Are you willing to make the sponsorship a focal point in the company and engage multiple departments? Sales, creative, marketing, customer service and management should all be involved.

AFTER Are you committed to review what worked and what didn’t? Both the nonprofit and the company should sit down to analyze the metrics and talk about how they can improve the partnership.

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RETHINK RETAIL

By Justine Griffin

Photography by Gene Pollux

W

hen Sarasota’s Southgate Mall lost two of its three anchor stores—Dillard’s and Saks Fifth Avenue— it faced a familiar crossroads in today’s retail landscape: reinvent itself or perish.

Reinvention seems to be winning. Today, the center has a new name—Westfield Siesta Key—and more the feel of a community gathering place than a traditional mall. Macy’s is the lone department store remaining. But new additions, some open and others coming soon, include Lucky’s Market, LA Fitness, L’Core Spa, CineBistro and a slew of restaurants new to the area, including Metro Diner, Connors Steak & Seafood, Bravo Coastal Bar & Kitchen and Naples Flatbread and Wine Bar. Construction crews have been busy, adding 22,000 square feet of new space, the biggest expansion since the mall was enclosed in 1988.

“I know there were people who wondered whether we would be able to survive,” says Christa Kremer, Westfield’s South Florida marketing director. “But we took our time because we wanted to do it right and give the community what it wanted. Today, it’s hard not to get excited about where we’re heading.”

Kremer still refers to Westfield Siesta Key as a mall, but not in the traditional sense where customers go simply to shop. Instead, she says, patrons may come in the morning for a workout or spa treatments, grab a meal or a craft beer at Lucky’s and pick up a blouse to wear that evening at one of the boutiques. At night, customers might come for dinner and a movie, and browse shops in between. “We’re offering a lot of experiences in a great location,” Kremer says.

TooJay’s Original Gourmet Deli, which has been a fixture at the mall for nearly 20 years, has been so pleased with the changes that it extended its lease for 10 years and plans to upgrade the restaurant late this summer with a remodeling project costing “several hundred thousand dollars,” says TooJay’s CEO Chris Artinian.

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ING

As digital sales grow, shopping centers face a “seismic” threat.

Connors Steak & Seafood, expected to open this fall, is one of several new restaurants reshaping Westfield Siesta Key. SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2017

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CineBistro Siesta Key has become a popular attraction at Westfield Siesta Key, offering gourmet dining, a full bar and luxurious seating for movies.

“They answered the call,” Artinian says of mall operator, Westfield. “We did have a decision to make on whether to stay.

But when we saw the direction they were going, we wanted to be part of the rebirth. It’s become more of a lifestyle center and we’re really excited to be part of a vibrant restaurant scene that is coming together there.”

Yet challenges remain. While business is expanding on the mall’s periphery, Westfield Siesta Key’s map shows around a dozen empty storefronts inside the mall. The fate of the mall’s lone department store also remains tenuous: Macy’s has closed 68 stores across the nation already this year and analysts say more closings are likely.

The picture is even more clouded at two other local malls.

DeSoto Square in Bradenton, which has been sold three times in the past five years, has more empty storefronts than occupied ones. Its movie theater has not reopened since closing last spring amid reports of a rat infestation.

DeSoto Square’s new owner, New York-based Meyer Lebovitz, who paid $25 million for it in February, has pledged to spend $7 million in upgrades. In Sarasota, Westfield Sarasota Square has lost two anchors, Macy’s and Sears, as well as several smaller retailers such as Men’s Wearhouse and Hobby Marketplace.

Even the $315 million jewel in the crown of local retail, the Mall at University Town Center, has lost more than 10 stores since its opening three years ago, though its anchors Dillard’s, Saks Fifth Avenue and Macy’s remain in place, along with popular smaller stores such as Apple.

Strip malls and shopping centers also have been hit hard by closings of chains such as hhgregg, Gymboree, Sports Authority, RadioShack, Kmart and Payless. Through June 23, analysts Fung Global Retail and Tech reported that 5,321 chain stores had closed nationally,

LA Fitness, left, brings a new dimension to Westfield Siesta Key. Macy’s, right, is the mall’s only department store.

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The average retail worker makes $25,770 a year or $12.39 per hour in Florida. The Sunshine State is third in the country in the number of retail jobs offered.

Nationally, the U.S. economy has lost 71,000 retail jobs since January.

a 213 percent increase over the first six months of 2016. The number was surpassed only once, in the first six months of 2008 during the start of the Great Recession. That the closings are happening today at a time of rising wages and near full employment raises questions about how quickly the pace will accelerate when the next recession hits.

From 2011 to 2016, the number of people employed in the retail industry increased by about 25 percent and wages increased by 14 percent in the Sarasota-Bradenton-North Port region, according to data collected by CareerSource Suncoast.

One area that continues to boom is the University Parkway corridor. Benderson Development has built a half dozen shopping centers along University Parkway that surround its centerpiece mall. From The Fresh Market to the Whole Foods Market

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2017

under construction, the strip centers are near capacity, despite the challenging landscape for retail these days. Restaurants seem to have the greatest turnover in the corridor. But more is coming. Benderson Development has proposed office, apartments and retail development along I-75, hoping that the growing neighboring Lakewood Ranch development will continue to support this network of stores and restaurants.

“Our region’s population growth has increased the demand for retail, and you can see that just by driving down University Parkway on any given day,” says Jen Zak, a spokeswoman for CareerSource Suncoast. “New stores are constantly popping up and ‘now hiring’ signs are in most storefronts. With the saturation of retail outlets in our region, we expect the wages to increase as retail businesses try to retain their employees who have many options in the job market.”

The recent trend may not be predictive of what’s to come. The combination of store closings and automation is expected to eventually curtail employement. But Zak had no predictions on how jobs will be affected in the rest of the year forecast, given the recent closures in the region. Nationally, the U.S. economy has lost more than 71,000 retail jobs since

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DeSoto Square Mall has been sold three times in the past five years and has a slew of empty storefronts. Analysts say housing, a medical facility or other nontraditional businesses may be the best hope for such aging shopping centers.

the beginning of the year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Beyond the macro-economic picture, there are many million reasons that trend is likely to intensify: 80 million, to be precise, which is the number of Americans who now subscribe to Amazon Prime, paying $99 annually to get expedited shipping, movies and other services from the online behemoth. In the past three years, the percentage of retail sales shifting online to Amazon and other digital retailers has grown from 5 percent to 14 percent. That leads one prominent retail analyst to say that even though Sarasota-Bradenton’s population is growing, housing construction is booming and tourism remains strong, the number of stores here is likely to decline in coming years.

“There’s no doubt about it, Sarasota is over-retailed now,” says Jeff Green, an analyst from Phoenix who has studied the Sarasota retail market. “It’s not unique to Sarasota. It’s part of a seismic shift that’s taking place for brick-and-mortar retailers.

And even though the Sarasota-Bradenton area is experiencing significant population growth, I expect the number of stores to decline as the internet continues to grow and baby boomers age and cut back their spending.

“It’s like watching needles stab the pincushion right now,” Green adds. “It’s not a quick death, it’s more like a disease.”

Retail workers

in Sarasota-Bradenton-North Port based on average monthly employment figures:

35,543 39,746 44,494 2011 2014 2016

SOURCE: U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS & CAREERSOURCE SUNCOAST

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Will malls get mauled?

The financial firm Credit Suisse reports that 20 percent to 25 percent of the nation’s 1,100 shopping malls will close within the next five years. That’s up to 275 malls. The study also predicts a sharp rise in e-commerce sales.

“Malls are still great real estate and have the potential to become something completely different,” Green says, adding that the changes at Westfield Siesta Key show the possibilities when mall owners look beyond the traditional four department store anchor formula. “The key is finding the highest and best use for these properties.”

Beyond adding restaurants, fitness centers and groceries, some mall owners have added offices and even residential units. Green says the potential to live or work in an area close to shopping, recreation, dining and entertainment is attractive for millennials in particular. DeSoto Square Mall is an example of a struggling traditional mall that could prosper by taking a new direction. Local commercial brokers say a medical center, school or even apartments could work there.

“We’ve been through this before. We’re looking at retail today and seeing a lot of vacancies, but also a lot of rehabs of existing centers and main streets. There are great, busy shopping corridors out there that we’ve never had before,” says Faith Hope Consolo, chairman of The Retail Group with Douglas Elliman Real Estate in New York City.

One center that seems to have hit the bull’seye in the new retail landscape is Pelican Plaza off U.S. 41 in south Sarasota. Last spring, while Macy’s was advertising its store closing at Westfield Sarasota Square across Tamiami Trail, the parking lot at Pelican Plaza was packed with customers at Sprouts Farmer’s Market. In 15 years, Sprouts has grown from one store in Chandler, 941CEO

Winners & Losers In Retail Winners:

Losers:

1. TJ Maxx—This value-oriented chain store is expanding when many other apparel stores are shrinking. The focus on brand names for value prices has pushed TJ Maxx and its similar competitors (think Marshalls) ahead of relic department store chains. TJ Maxx is nimble because it can mix up its assortment of product more easily than a department store. And the prices are low, similar to the fast fashion trend seen in malls from new players like H&M and Forever 21.

2. Ulta—Another nimble player is Ulta, which knows how to use its ecommerce business to support its in-store business. The beauty chain has seen positive double-digit sales growth quarter after quarter and skyrocketing shares. Its in-store business far outweighs its online business.

3. Walmart—The Walmart chain is investing heavily in new ways to reach customers, both online as it competes against Amazon on price and convenience, and in stores where it butts up against everyone from Publix to Target. Customers can pay by app in some stores now. The chain is expanding its grocery curbside pickup program.

1. Sears—The longstanding department store chain has reported declining same-store sales for years. More closures come every quarter, including the recent shuttering of its store at Sarasota Square Mall. Sears sold off some of its household brands, like Craftsman Tools, in an effort to save money, but ultimately it pushed more customers away. There’s no resurrecting the flailing chain at this point.

2. Sports Authority—The chain closed all of its 450-plus stores across the U.S. after it went bankrupt and couldn’t secure a buyer earlier this year. Sports Authority failed to be innovative to reach new customers as competitors came into the market, like Dick’s Sporting Goods, and boutique specialty fitness chains, from lululemon to Athletica, emerged.

3. The Limited—Once a classic staple in any American mall, women’s fashion retailer The Limited filed for bankruptcy earlier this year and shuttered all stores. The Limited failed to reinvent to keep up with new trends from newer brands that captured the attention of women shoppers.

Arizona, to more than 270 nationally. It is part of the healthy, specialty grocery niche that includes recent local additions Trader Joe’s, Earth Fare and Lucky’s and the continued growth of Detwiler’s Farm Market. Green expects the growth to continue because consumers are looking for more healthful options and are willing to shop at different stores for staples and specialty items such as organic vegetables and humanely raised meats. Amazon’s interest in Whole Foods Market, which it acquired earlier this summer, further shows the demand and interest in the health foods concept. The trend, Green says, will hurt traditional full-service groceries, like Florida’s staple, Publix.

“The 40,000-square-foot supermarket with 40,000 products on the shelves is a dinosaur. It’s going extinct. Consumers don’t want that anymore,” adds Phil Lempert, editor of SupermarketGuru.com.

Sprouts is not Benderson’s only success story at Pelican Plaza. Another thriving business is Ulta, the beauty and makeup chain with stores in malls and strip centers, that continues to post positive double-digit sales growth quarter after quarter and skyrocketing shares. Despite investing heavily in its e-commerce operations, Ulta officials say that online business is only incremental compared to its in-store business. Analysts credit Ulta’s success to its nimbleness. The

brand is known to partner with major beauty labels and market to millennials. The third major store in Pelican Plaza is Total Wine and More, which has grown to 162 stores nationally since starting in Delaware in 1991. A typical store offers 8,000 different wines, 2,5oo beers and 3,000 spirits, the company says.

One thing Sprout’s, Total Wine and Ulta have in common is seeking interaction with their customers beyond selling products. At Sprouts, monthly classes include topics like baking organic cookies. Total Wine offers classes about wine from different regions and others devoted to trendy liquors such as bourbon. In addition to selling beauty products, Ulta has full-salon treatments focusing on makeup, hair and skin. “People want value and they want experiences,” Green says. “Stores that can deliver those things can be successful.” ■

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2017

Justine Griffin writes about retail business and tourism for the Tampa Bay Times.

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SOCIAL CLIMBING

Seven proven social media s t r ategies t hat will pay of f f or your business.

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n less than a decade, social media has gone from a teen-age fad to an indispensable part of nearly every layer of business, from recruiting to customer service to marketing and more. It is so important that Sarasota County drinkware maker Tervis has up to 10 people dedicated to social media marketing and engagement on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Simply put, businesses that fail to embrace social media are missing out on the world’s 2.4 billion social network users. But plunging into social media without a strategy, training and guidelines can be disastrous. Here are seven must-dos for getting the most from social media.

B Y V IC K I DE A N

VLADA YOUNG AND ROBUART/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

1

PICK THE RIGHT PLATFORM

Should your business be on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, or all of the above? Social media is a business asset and should be managed as such, says Joseph Grano, founder and president of marketing agency Next-Mark in Sarasota. Social media needs to be a collaborative process that is content and marketing driven. A business’ goals need to be shared among public relations, sales and marketing departments as part of a consistent, integrated and transparent process.

Vicki Krueger, marketing communications manager at The Poynter Institute in St. Petersburg, advises businesses to choose a platform based on how social media fits with their marketing needs. Do you want to create awareness of your company? Drive revenue? Start a conversation?

Start small with one platform. Facebook works best for most businesses. Eight in 10 Americans who have internet access are on the platform, according to Pew Research Center, and they spend an average of 40 minutes a day scrolling their newsfeeds.

A company that produces visually interesting products, like Tervis or a bakery, also should consider showcasing its wares on Instagram.

Instagram’s audience skews younger: 32 percent

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2017

of online adults in America use the platform, and 59 percent of 18- to 29-year-olds are on Instagram, according to Pew Research Center.

“For most small businesses, retail and business-to-consumer companies, in particular, Facebook is the default because of its reach,” says Barbara Langdon, founder of Market Momentum in North Port, who does marketing and social media seminars for chambers of commerce and SCORE chapters in Southwest Florida.

On Facebook, set up a business page with a designated administrator. Make sure the location, website link, phone number and other pertinent information are listed. If the page is not going to be monitored around the clock, list business hours and set up an automated response to thank customers for reaching out.

Explain that someone will get back to them as soon as possible. Designate someone to handle those interactions during the workweek and after hours.

Programs such as Hootsuite and Buffer allow social media managers to simultaneously work with platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and Pinterest; launch a message to all of them; and measure and engage your audience.

While visits to brand websites and home pages are down as more people find what they want and need through social media, experts still recommend keeping an attractive, functional business website. Make sure all website pages have share icons so that customers can interact on the social media platforms they prefer.

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S OC I A L C L I M BING

2

CHOOSE A SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

Social media must be managed. Smaller companies should consider outsourcing social media to professionals because it is such a critical component of marketing. Costs can vary from $300 a month to the thousands, depending on how many platforms are involved. If using staff members, make sure employees get proper training from online training programs like diygenius.com or socialmediaexaminer.com in order to track results, keep abreast of trends and monitor platforms’ tweaks to their algorithms.

Krueger says employees can be the best ambassadors and provide a genuine voice for the brand if they are trained properly. Be realistic about the amount of time social media marketing and engagement takes. If outsourcing the work, make sure the contractor understands the brand and the message.

Employees can be encouraged to share the company’s posts on their personal pages, but don’t overdo it or it looks like “stuffing the ballot box,” Langdon says.

A third option is hiring a company to establish a social media strategy and train employees on how to implement and maintain the plan, she says.

“Training starts with communicating your goals on social and discussing the voice—words as well as visuals—you use with your brand,” Krueger says. “Training is a continuous process of looking at what’s working, what’s not and measuring results. Did a particular tweet or Facebook post resonate with your audience? Talk about why.”

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POSTS THAT WORKED

Tervis

Facebook fans: 666,000 Instagram followers: 36,500 Most viral post: An April video celebrating the launch of Tervis’ new stainless collection had more than 108,000 views. The video showed people using stainless products on the area’s beautiful beaches. “A lot of the stainless on the market looks a little sterile, kind of cold, it’s not very colorful,” Amanda Eyer, senior director of marketing, says. “It was the quality of the video that showed it being made. The Florida lifestyle is really big here.”

Hooked on SUP

Facebook followers: 8,000 Most viral post: Social media helped people find Paige Bakhaus’ off-the-beaten path paddleboard rental business in Englewood. She posted regularly on social media when she first got started and listed her business on every

POST REGULARLY

Social media requires regular feeding.

Industry standards suggest posting a minimum of four to five times a week on Facebook and up to 10 times a day on Twitter.

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free listing site she could find. Hooked on SUP had a presence on Yelp and Trip Advisor, as well.

“Without social media, I don’t think there would be a business,” she says. A video of playful manatees on a tour in October attracted a lot of attention on Facebook last fall, with more than 1,300 views.

Sarasota Police Department

Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue

Facebook fans: 25,000 Most viral post: Shelter director Dari Oglesby snapped an iPhone photo last April of Lexi, a black Labrador mix, who had been returned to the shelter after a recent adoption. The photo showed her sitting outside in the rain in her kennel, waiting for her new owner to return. The post asked people not to judge, because Lexi’s adopter was heartbroken, too. The photo had more than 1,000 reactions, 1,500 shares and 300 comments. It was quickly followed by happy news of the dog’s adoption and a picture of her with her new family. “The next post read, ‘There are a lot of mended broken hearts tonight. Lexi has left the shelter,’” social media manager Cheryl Eason says.

Twitter followers: 26,000 Facebook likes: 23,000 Instagram followers: close to 10,000 Most viral post: SPD motorcycle officers were contacted by a teenager who was visiting from Missouri, requesting to go on a ride-along with them on New Year’s Eve. While department policies would not allow a ride-along, officers found out that the 16-year-old boy had recently lost his father, who was a motorcycle officer from another city. A family member drove the boy down to the police station as motorcycle officers circled the teen’s car with lights flashing. The officers got off their bikes, shook hands with the boy and gave the surprised teen a commemorative SPD coin to pay tribute to his father on what would have been his birthday. Genevieve Judge, the department’s communications coordinator, shot and edited video of the tribute and it took off, with more than 185,000 views on Facebook. The post was shared more than 1,800 times and was picked up by media outlets all over the world. “That was absolutely a tear jerker. Outstanding job to honor his father,” one Facebook commenter wrote. “I get chills just even talking about it,” Judge says. “Our officers wanted this young man, whom they had never met, to know that in law enforcement we’re all family.”

“WITHOUT SOCIAL MEDIA, I DON’T THINK THERE WOULD BE A BUSINESS.” –PAIGE BAKHAUS, Hooked on SUP

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2017

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S OC I A L C L I M BING

But approaching those guidelines as a quota can be counterproductive. Companies that send a burst of tweets out at once, for example, can quickly turn off their followers. It’s far better to connect at regular intervals, and easy to do, even at odd hours, by scheduling the messages.

Hootsuite or Buffer can push out content at strategic times based on the platform’s algorithms and your audience’s preferences.

“There’s no magic number for the number of times you post,” Grano says. “The key is to be visible to your audience without becoming overwhelming. Experiment with the times you post and the content you post to see how effective you are. Your audience will let you know when it’s too much or not enough.”

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MIX IT UP

Visuals are a post’s most critical element.

A strong, generic stock image can have more impact than a cluttered, poorly framed local photo.

Think about what makes your thumb stop mid-scroll on your phone when you’re on Facebook. Remember that most people access social media on mobile devices. Try posting

videos, ask a question, design a quiz. Upload quality videos to Facebook instead of posting links so that the videos automatically play in the newsfeed and provide analytics on views.

Remember, Facebook boosts video posts over all other content in some followers’ feeds.

The platform’s ever-changing algorithms tailor users’ feeds based on the type of content they regularly consume—photos, videos and text posts. If you’re only posting one type of content, you may be missing a major sector of your audience. Follow your competitors and monitor what they’re doing on social media.

See what posts resonate with their audience and learn from them.

Remember, most people are on social media for entertainment, so it’s OK to have fun. Build up a following organically. Buying page likes is not a recommended strategy, but experimenting with paid posts can be effective.

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ENGAGE WITH YOUR AUDIENCE

Engagement is the gold standard for social media success, or, as Grano says, “You can have thousands of followers but if only a few folks really engage, then you’re not being effective.”

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“SMALL BUSINESSESS SHOULD RESPOND TO COMMENTS WITHIN 24 HOURS.” –BARBARA LANGDON, Market Momentum

Social media is an extension of a business’ digital storefront, so it’s vital that someone is interacting with your customers. This is the timeconsuming part of social media, but by ignoring online users, it’s like having a business phone that no one answers.

When a user asks a question, respond quickly and constructively. If they comment on a post, “like” their replies. Reward good behavior and favorable reviews by thanking customers. Feature their posts prominently on your page.

If someone complains about your business, respond quickly and don’t let negativity spiral out of control. Apologize for a bad experience and offer to fix what’s wrong. Other customers will see those replies and realize that the business is trying hard to do what’s right.

“Small businesses should challenge themselves to respond to comments within 24 hours,” Langdon says. “Larger organizations typically measure response time in minutes.”

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Facebook, Twitter and Instagram provide detailed analytics and insights on page administrators’ dashboards. Monitor those numbers to determine which posts work and which don’t. Be reasonable in your expectations when starting out. Remember, it takes a long time to build a following, says Grano.

Experiment with different content and posting times to see what your audience likes and when you can best reach them online. If it’s an important post or event, send out multiple posts at different times and in different forms to ensure that the information is seen by a majority of followers.

“Don’t be afraid of failure. Trust your audience to let you know (through likes, shares and comments), what connects,” Krueger says. “Then rinse and repeat.”

BUILD BRAND AWARENESS

Social media offers a platform to directly connect with customers, but don’t just hawk your products there. Be genuine and interesting to catch the eye of existing and potential followers.

Think of creative ways to engage with people, through asking questions, offering contests and broadcasting live video. Setting up robust social media channels will build your business’ digital presence and provide more avenues for people to find your company online.

Consider posting job openings to help recruit talent.

Be patient. It may take a while to see results, but monitoring interactions online offers a strategic opportunity to learn more about followers and turn them into brand advocates.

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DOG THE ANALYTICS

Social Media ✓ Checklist • • • • • • • • • • • •

Is it educational or entertaining?

Is the voice correct?

Is it too long?

Is the URL correct?

Should I target a specific audience?

Did I use the right keywords and hashtags?

How many times have I already posted today?

Did I spell-check?

Will I be OK with absolutely anyone seeing this?

Is this a reactive post or is it well thought-out?

Did I make the most of visual content?

Did I make the most of my update text?

SOURCE: SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT PLATFORM BUFFER

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Philanthropic organizations that are truly

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

27 NONPROFITS TO KNOW

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Community Impact Powered by Philanthropy EACH ONE OF US has the potential to impact a person, a cause, a community. For more than 35 years, the Community Foundation of Sarasota County has matched donors to the right causes, leveraging donors’ charitable intentions to create lasting impact.

From humble beginnings, the Community Foundation has grown donor by donor to more than $292 million in assets, showing a collective power that reflects the visions and stories of generous people from all walks of life. We connect with other funders, nonprofits, the government and the School District to find effective solutions to our community’s problems and stay alert to emerging issues and opportunities. And through a national network of community foundations, we can advise you about charities all over the country and around the world, and stay on top of best practices so that you CAN BE THE ONE

TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE. 40

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Bri’s Story

MAKING A DIFFERENCE Through the visions of donors, the Community Foundation of Sarasota County has awarded more than $80 million over the last five years to make an impact in the arts, human services, education, environment, youth development and animal welfare. The Foundation has played a vital role in multifaceted, multi-year commitments that change the course of individual lives for good.

SEASON OF SHARING Prevents homelessness by providing targeted financial assistance, primarily for rent/mortgage and utilities to families who are on the economic edge.

AFTER ARRIVING IN THE UNITED STATES AT A YOUNG AGE, Bri witnessed her parents make tremendous sacrifices to support their family and create a new life for themselves. Bri later grew up to have two children herself, but she didn’t ever believe there was anything more for her after high school.

Working multiple minimum-wage jobs and struggling to provide for her family, Bri remembered her own parents’ resilience and quest for something more. After meeting with a social worker from Alta Vista Elementary, which her kids attended, she realized a dream to become a nurse. Thanks to support from the Community Foundation, Bri attended a Nursing Assistant training program at the very same campus where her children learned.

Bri was so successful that she moved on to pursue an LPN degree. With graduation right on the horizon, Bri and her family’s future is looking brighter. Her compelling personal story demonstrating hope is just one of many we have had the privilege to know through the committed moms who are moving their families forward with support from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County.

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CAMPAIGN FOR GRADE-LEVEL READING Ensures that more children in low-income families are reading on grade-level by the end of third grade, an early and important predictor of school success and preparedness for college.

ARTS INTEGRATION IN EDUCATION Creates access to arts education programs and out-of-school experiences and resources for local students.

With a “Two-Generation” approach, the Community Foundation focuses on significant local and national initiatives that create and support an intergenerational cycle of opportunity for parents and children living in poverty in our region through four key components: Education, Economic Supports, Social Capital, and Health & Well-Being. The Community Foundation of Sarasota County is proud to be the intersection where the community’s needs meet the people with a vision of a better future. Every person can be the one to make a difference.

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EASTERSEALS SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

MI S S I O N To provide exceptional services for persons with disabilities and their families across a lifetime by empowering individuals to live their lives to the fullest.

INCLUSIVE PRESCHOOL, KINDERGARTEN & FIRST GRADE Individualized instruction - those with disabilities and those typically developing. Core Curriculum plus multisensory reading, Spanish, Art, Music.

Helping Abilities Shine.

EASTERSEALS SOUTHWEST FLORIDA began in 1946 as Happiness House, offering hope to children with polio and their families. Over the years, services have evolved in many ways to match the needs of today’s community. Easterseals began with children’s therapy and preschool education, which remains a significant part of its services. Today’s Easterseals also includes a newly formed private school with kindergarten, first grade and a high school and employment services as well as adult programming, ages 22 through senior adults—ultimately serving the entire lifespan.

While the age of the population served has expanded over the years, one core aspect remains the same: helping abilities shine! EARLY intervention, EDUCATION, EMPLOYMENT and ENRICHING activities along with wraparound services such as RESPITE are at the very heart of our programming. Whether it’s a diagnosis of autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, spina bifida or developmental delays and intellectual disabilities, Easterseals is there to help overcome those barriers to achieving full potential.

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Visit: easterseals-swfl.org

BLENDED AFTERSCHOOL AND SUMMER PROGRAMS for ages 5-12 years old that incorporate specialized reading and loads of learning expeditions.

WORK & LIFE SKILLS The high school and adult programs span education to job placement services to

enriching activities such as organic farming and performing arts.

INTEGRATED THERAPIES Speech-language, occupational, physical and behavioral therapies provided onsite and in select partner sites to overcome geographical barriers.

RESPITE Family strengthening program providing breaks for caretakers of a child with disabilities by staff that is well trained to handle seizures, feeding tubes and other specialized needs.

CONTACT 350 Braden Ave., Sarasota, FL 34243 (941) 355-7637 EASTERSEALS-SWFL.ORG 941CEO

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GOODWILL MANASOTA

MI S S I O N

Changing lives through the power of work.

IN 2016, GOODWILL MANASOTA: • served 28,207 individuals.

• placed 755 people in jobs.

• assisted 240 veterans as they reintegrated back into the civilian workforce.

• diverted more than 40 million pounds out of the local landfill.

• had an economic impact back to the community worth $92.1 million.

The "power" behind Goodwill Manasota.

GOODWILL AMBASSADORS, like Jo Rita Stevens, are committed to educating and sharing how Goodwill Manasota improves the quality of life for many by creating jobs and more employable people.

The Goodwill Ambassador program exists to promote Goodwill Manasota’s mission of building a strong, healthy and engaged community by connecting volunteers with opportunities to advance the mission of Goodwill in a tangible way. The goals of the Goodwill Ambassador program include: educating the public about Goodwill’s mission; building organizational strength and image in the community; participating in fundraising or in-kind resources; relaying ideas/input from the community; and forming partnerships.

Goodwill provides the training and education, and its Ambassadors inform the community of the improvements Goodwill makes in the quality of so many lives, and the paths to self-sufficiency Goodwill creates. There are several ways to be a Goodwill Ambassador, such as, attend a lunch and learn about the Goodwill mission; enjoy networking socials; schedule a behind-the-scenes tour; schedule a Goodwill speaker for your service organization, church, club or business; or volunteer to help with Goodwill initiatives.

CONTACT

WANT TO HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE? SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2017

Visit: experiencegoodwill.org

CORPORATE CAMPUS 2705 51st Ave. E. Bradenton, FL 34203

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MOTE MARINE LABORATORY

MI S S I O N Mote is an independent marine research institution with world-class scientists dedicated to the conservation and sustainable use of our oceans through worldclass research and education.

SUPPORT Over one-third of Mote’s budget comes from philanthropy. Our nonprofit relies on this funding and is grateful for all supporters.

EDUCATION Providing informal marine science education to the public, Mote Aquarium and its traveling exhibits reach over a million people annually.

World-class scientists devoted to the ocean and its future.

THE EMPLOYEES AND VOLUNTEERS at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium are guardians of the sea and all living things that depend upon it. They are scientists, explorers and stewards of the ocean. Driven by research, education and excitement, they work passionately to observe, discover and extrapolate the information, data and science-based results that will enable the human race to create a better environment for future generations.

The ocean is their passion. And science is their catalyst to help our oceans heal, thrive and continue to be havens of sustainable life, lifeimproving science and life-giving solutions. The brightest minds will have the greatest impact. And some of the world’s most inspired scientific minds in the ocean community are right here in your back yard at Mote Marine Laboratory.

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Visit: mote.org

VITALITY With a regional economic impact of $86.8 million, Mote is vital for the health of the environment and local economy.

OUTREACH Our Education Department serves nearly 30,000 people annually, including over 200 collegeaged interns and large groups of under-represented and underserved individuals.

RESEARCH Mote’s diverse research programs include studies of human cancer, coral reef research and restoration, developing sustainable aquaculture technologies and more.

CONTACT 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway Sarasota, FL 34236 (941) 388-4441 MOTE.ORG 941CEO

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NEW COLLEGE OF FLORIDA

MI S S I O N New College offers a liberal arts education of the highest quality in the context of a small, residential public honors college.

Topnotch Students—an Investment in our Future.

EDUCATION Topnotch academics: New College is ranked No. 5 among all public liberal arts colleges in 2017

by U.S. News and World Report.

EXCELLENCE Students at New College are 42 times more likely than students at other Florida SUS institutions to be awarded Fulbright grants.

DEBT-FREE STUDENTS New College is ranked in the top 10 liberal arts colleges nationwide for students with the least debt, and more than half of our students graduate with no debt at all.

STELLAR ALUMNI New College graduates include scientists, scholars, attorneys, physicians, diplomats, CEOs and the presidents of colleges and universities.

SARA SHEFFER, A MARINE BIOLOGY MAJOR, spends much of her time in a lab at the Pritzker Marine Biology Research Center at New College.

Sheffer is observing three octopuses from Mote Marine Laboratory, with the hope of studying the feeding behavior of octopus larvae.

Her research is made possible by a scholarship generously funded by the late Howard Isermann and his wife Betty, longtime Sarasota residents.

The scholarship provides an opportunity for academically talented firstyear students from outside the state of Florida to get hands-on research experience in mathematics and the natural sciences.

Sheffer is one of three medal recipients this year. Medalists are paired with a New College professor and participate in research during their first January Interterm period at New College and during four weeks in the summer after their first year.

The opportunity afforded by the Isermann program was a dream come true, Sheffer says. Ultimately, Sheffer wants to become a veterinarian, and the opportunities at New College are a perfect fit. “I chose New College because of the excellent marine biology department,” she says, “and flexibility in classes and learning overall.”

WANT TO HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE? SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2017

Visit: ncf.edu

CONTACT 5800 Bay Shore Road Sarasota, FL 34243 (941) 487-4800 NCF.EDU 45

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OPERATION SECOND CHANCE

MI S S I O N Committed to serving our combat veterans with emergency financial support.

We are dedicated to promoting awareness of the many sacrifices made by our

PHOTO COURTESY OF HERALD-TRIBUNE

Armed Forces.

Helping Heroes Move On. IN SEPTEMBER OF 2004, Cindy McGrew was prompted to do a web search of an Army unit that her friend was attached to. After learning of three soldiers that were injured and en route to Walter Reed Army Medical Center, she immediately sent emails to the families offering her support.

She went to Walter Reed and introduced herself to the soldiers and their families, and from there developed life-long friendships. At the request of other soldiers and Marines, Cindy began visiting their families as well. Word spread, and she branched out to even more families, wanting to help in any way possible. Having four brothers that served in the Armed Forces and seeing these families struggling to pay their bills really stuck a chord with Cindy. Her initial efforts were the beginnings of what is now Operation Second Chance.

Along with providing emergency financial assistance to wounded and ill veterans, OSC has a wonderful retreat program and a strong presence within Sarasota. All retreats are run by former military officers who volunteer and donate all of their time, proving that life in the service doesn’t end when you retire.

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Visit: operationsecondchance.org

SUPPORT OSC provides emergency financial assistance to our veterans, in the form of rent and utility payments, travel and lodging.

HIGHLY RATED A Four-Star rating with Charity Navigator, OSC has worked hard with a small staff to keep their expense ratio at an average of 12 percent since inception.

RESULTS OSC has provided more than $4.5

million in assistance and moraleboosting retreats to more than 4,000 veteran families.

AWARE When our veterans are wounded, their injuries will last a lifetime. Twentytwo veterans a day are taking their own lives.

RESEARCH In 2016, OSC saw a 45 percent increase in emergency requests. YOU can make a difference. Please donate today.

CONTACT 20251 Century Blvd., Suite 130 Germantown, Maryland 20874 (888) 672-4838 OPERATIONSECONDCHANCE.ORG 941CEO

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SARASOTA MEMORIAL HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION

MI S S I O N Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation is an independent charitable organization working together with Sarasota Memorial Health Care System and others to ensure world-class healthcare throughout our community.

RESEARCH Progressive research ensures that strides will continue to be made toward improving our quality of life through life-saving and life-improving advances.

Making tomorrow’s healthcare possible today.

GREAT HEALTHCARE is one of the foundations of a strong community.

Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation’s mission is to support the healthcare needs of Sarasota Memorial Health Care System (SMH) and Sarasota County, because lives depend upon it.

SMH is your medical home—patient-centered, collaborative and innovative. It is an 829-bed healthcare destination whose mission has not faltered: to provide world-class comprehensive healthcare services that excel in caring, quality and innovation at the doorstep of our daily lives.

Few community-owned hospitals offer the range of sophisticated services, technology and equipment as SMH. It is imperative we ensure today that the resources will be available when needed—tomorrow and years from now. Top quality healthcare is an every day essential. The Healthcare Foundation creates that all-important margin of excellence between average and outstanding healthcare, providing the degree of confidence so essential to our healthcare decisions.

Community support will ensure that your healthcare stays strong and continues to be the benchmark for best practices, best results, and the best way of serving the healthcare needs of the community.

WANT TO HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE? SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2017

Visit: smhf.org

TECHNOLOGY The Healthcare Foundation makes sure that SMH stays on the leading edge of today’s technology, allowing you to benefit from the latest advances.

FACILITIES Sarasota Memorial is our medical home, and first-rate

facilities are integral to the delivery of quality medicine and services.

PATIENT CARE Outstanding patient care is the cornerstone of our community hospital and requires continual support to maintain the highest standards.

EDUCATION Continuing education and professional staff development guarantee that your healthcare providers always receive the most current training and information available.

CONTACT 1515 S. Osprey Ave., Suite B-4 Sarasota, FL 34329 (941) 917-1286 SMHF.ORG 47

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SARASOTA YMCA

MI S S I O N To build strong kids, strong families, strong communities.

YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Nurturing the potential of every child and teen through programs like camps, youth sports, gymnastics, swim lessons and child care.

Combining Tradition and Innovation since 1945.

THE SARASOTA YMCA has been listening and responding to our community’s most critical needs for over 70 years. From early learning to diabetes prevention, youth sports and swim lessons to after school care, mentoring and counseling to summer camp, and a youth shelter to foster care and adoptions, the Y continues to effect lasting change in Sarasota and beyond.

By building a culture of philanthropy to meet community needs, the Y is also on the forefront of preventing chronic disease through several programs such as Diabetes Prevention (a small group for adults at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes), Livestrong At the YMCA (a 12-week initiative for people affected by cancer), Biggest Winner (helping people develop healthy habits and work with a nutritionist), and Pedaling for Parkinson’s (a cycling class to increase motor skills). Programs like these help Ys find and assist people most in need in our community.

As a nonprofit organization serving over 50,000 people annually, the Y never turns anyone away due to their inability to pay. We’re for Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility.

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Visit: sarasotaymca.org

HEALTHY LIVING Improving the community’s health and well-being, the Y brings families closer together and fosters connections through fitness, fun and shared interests.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY Giving back and providing support by responding to our

community’s most critical social needs for over 70 years through a number of programs.

SERVICES Safe Children Coalition (foster care and adoption), Triad Alternative School, HIPPY, Achievers, Schoolhouse Link, Counseling and Youth Shelter.

SERVES Over 50,000 people annually and awards over $500,000 in member and program scholarships, and financial assistance annually.

CONTACT One S. School Ave., Suite 301 Sarasota, FL 34237 (941) 951-2916 SARASOTAYMCA.ORG 941CEO

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ST. MARTHA CATHOLIC SCHOOL

MI S S I O N In partnership with Jesus Christ and the teachings of the Catholic Church, our mission is to provide each student with diverse opportunities which develop strength in faith, excellence in knowledge and learning.

EDUCATION St. Martha Catholic School serves students in Pre-K through 8th Grade; and is fully accredited by the Florida Catholic Conference.

QUALITY The St. Martha Catholic School campus was designed with safety and technology integration as priorities.

Faith, Knowledge, Service.

ST. MARTHA CATHOLIC SCHOOL is a Catholic Christian community that strives to integrate, in the lives of our students, the message of Jesus.

Our philosophy is based on the belief that home and school are partners responsible for creating an environment for the child that nurtures his/her spiritual, physical, psychological, social, and intellectual growth. St. Martha Catholic School strives to provide a curriculum which gives opportunity for growth in the student’s relationship with Jesus, while building confidence in academic disciplines, basic skills, aesthetic appreciation, and physical development. Our faculty recognizes that Catholic faith is not merely taught from books, but is more realistically inspired by the teachers who strive to provide a model for Catholic living. It is through the generous support of so many volunteers and donors that we are able to provide the highest quality Catholic Education, where our students develop their strength in faith, excellence in knowledge, and character in service.

WANT TO HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE? SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2017

Visit: stmarthaschool.net

BRILLIANCE St. Martha Catholic School students have consistently

performed in the top 20% across the nation, year after year.

FACILITIES The Zazarino Center is an approximately 26,000 sq. ft., multi-faceted facility, including a gymnasium, stage, classrooms, and more.

CERTIFICATION All teachers are certified in their subject areas, with all early childhood classes having a full or part time aide.

CONTACT 4380 Fruitville Road Sarasota, FL 34232 (941) 953-4181 STMARTHASCHOOL.NET 49

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UNITED WAY SUNCOAST

MI S S I O N United we fight for the education and financial stability of every person in our community.

UNITE Breaking the cycle of generational poverty with a focus on youth education, financial stability and volunteer activation.

EDUCATE Early literacy initiatives ensure more children achieve reading benchmarks and keep them on a path to graduation and college/career.

UNITED WE FIGHT. UNITED WE WIN. ACROSS THE SUNCOAST, WE SEEK OUT THE TOUGH PROBLEMS— the ones others may shy away from. We find others who want to work with us to solve those problems. We raise money. We put boots on the ground. We lend our voices. We go to the overlooked places and help those who need it most.

United, we fight to ensure every child gets the support they need, right from the start, to graduate prepared for college or career.

United, we fight so that our neighbors can break the cycle of poverty and achieve financial stability.

United, we fight to rally and organize committed volunteers who want to put their talents to work to build a more caring community.

United, we fight for the education and financial stability of every person in our community.

Because change doesn’t happen alone. Hope isn’t a one-man band.

And there’s no such thing as self-taught or self-made. We have one life.

To live better, we must Live United.

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Visit: unitedwaysuncoast.org

STABILIZE Financial stability programming empowers struggling adults

and families to stabilize and thrive through financial education initiatives and asset-building programs.

EMPOWER Workforce development initiatives help adults increase their lifetime earning potential through career training and soft skill development.

LOCAL STRENGTH Serving Sarasota, Manatee, DeSoto, Pinellas and Hillsborough counties.

CONTACT Manatee Office: (941) 748-1313 Sarasota Office: (941) 366-2686 Tampa Bay Office: (813) 274-0900 UNITEDWAYSUNCOAST.ORG 941CEO

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PROVIDING HEALTHY SOLUTIONS TO END HUNGER.

ALL FAITHS FOOD BANK

ALL FAITHS FOOD BANK, awarded a 4-star rating by Charity Navigator, is a member of Feeding America and the hub of hunger relief in Sarasota and DeSoto counties. Programs include the Sprout Mobile Farm Market bringing fresh produce to families, Mobile Pantries, delivering groceries to areas of highest need, the BackPack Program, ensuring students have food over weekends and holidays, School Pantries, the Campaign Against Summer Hunger, raising food and funds to feed children all summer long and Cooking Matters— a six-week series of nutrition education and hands-on cooking classes for all ages. All Faiths engages partners who nourish young minds and bodies, including the School District, libraries, the Jewish Federation and child-centric organizations like the YMCA, Eagle Academy and the Boys and Girls Clubs. Last year, All Faiths distributed 8.5 million pounds of food, equating to 7.1 million meals, through 184 pantries, agencies, soup kitchens, churches, community centers, schools and programs.

MISSION: Together with our partners, we provide healthy solutions to end hunger in our community.

CONTACT 8171 Blaikie Court., Sarasota, FL 34240 (941) 379-6333 ALLFAITHSFOODBANK.ORG

CATHOLIC CHARITIES, DIOCESES OF VENICE

HELPING PEOPLE ATTAIN SELF-SUFFICIENCY. CATHOLIC CHARITIES STRIVES TO ASSIST EVERYONE who asks for help with the ultimate goal of achieving self-reliance. Young mothers and their children who require a safe place to live turn to Our Mother’s House of Catholic Charities for shelter, guidance and the skills to reach independence. Preschool students from struggling, working-poor families receive a full range of services and quality education to be ready for kindergarten at St. Martha’s Early Learning Center of Catholic Charities. Homeless families in crisis reside at the Catholic Charities Family Haven and obtain long-term care that solves their housing and economic issues to become self-supporting.

The First Time Homebuyer Class instructs at-risk buyers with realistic steps to successful home ownership. Your generosity and support of Catholic Charities enables those in need to live a better life. Thank you!

MISSION: To meaningfully grow funding for the arts and human services organizations of Sarasota.

CONTACT 5055 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34234 (941) 355-4680 CATHOLICCHARITIESDOV.ORG SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2017

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MORE THAN A CIRCUS!

THE CIRCUS ARTS CONSERVATORY

THE CIRCUS ARTS CONSERVATORY is known for world class performances and training, but is increasingly being called to utilize the circus arts as a tool for social change, serving marginalized citizens, disadvantaged and at-risk youth, disabled children and adults, and residents of assisted living facilities, nursing homes and hospitals.

Today, The CAC broadly reaches into all areas of the community to offer new, dynamic and impactful circus arts programming. Circus Sarasota presents renowned internationally known artists at the annual Big Top performances. The Education Outreach program has provided arts-integrated classroom curriculum to over 14,000 students in Southwest Florida. With over 5,000 visits to care facilities, The Humor Therapy program profoundly engages residents by delivering therapeutic interaction, joy and laughter. For nearly seven decades Sailor Circus Academy has transformed the lives of more than 11,000 youth through training and mentorship.

MISSION: Engage and educate students using innovative learning programs; measurably improve the quality of life for individuals in care facilities; and advance the extraordinary legacy of the circus.

CONTACT 2075 Bahia Vista St. Sarasota, FL 34239 (941) 355-9335 CIRCUSARTS.ORG

STILL GIVING AFTER 15 YEARS.

DESIGNING WOMEN BOUTIQUE

WHILE DWB MAY BE best known for its sensational shopping and top designer labels, the true heart of the organization has always been about giving. The vision of the three founders— Jean Weidner Goldstein, Margaret Wise and Diane Roskamp—was to create an upscale consignment shop whose proceeds would benefit local arts and human services organizations. Fifteen years later, that vision has seen more than $2 million in grants and donations. The shop has spawned countless friendships as volunteers work together to plan galas, fashion shows and luncheons. DWB is known not only for its new and consigned fashions but also for accessories, jewelry and home furnishings. They have expanded their services to include estate liquidation and downsizing, and plans are in process for new programs to encourage community involvement and giving.

MISSION: To meaningfully grow funding for the arts and human services organizations of Sarasota.

CONTACT 1226 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota (941) 366-5293 DESIGNINGWOMENSRQ.ORG 52

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EDUCATION CHANGES LIVES.

EDUCATION FOUNDATION OF SARASOTA COUNTY

THERE’S AN ORGANIZATION investing in our public schools and our community’s future. It funds over 200 classroom grants annually, allowing teachers to take individual lessons to the next level. It underwrites opportunities for students to connect with our community through experiential field trips. It collaborates with schools to pilot innovative programs. For more than 30 years this organization has operated under the belief that every child deserves to reach his/her full potential.

We are the Education Foundation of Sarasota County, a philanthropic organization working with the leadership of Sarasota County Schools to enhance the potential of students, promote excellence in teaching and inspire innovation in education. Together with your generosity, we collectively make a difference in the lives of our children. Your gift to the Education Foundation supports our schools and creates a brighter future.

We believe education changes lives and YOU make it a reality.

MISSION: To enhance the potential of students, promote excellence in teaching and inspire innovation in education, guided by strategic philanthropy.

CONTACT 1960 Landings Blvd Sarasota, FL 34231 (941) 927-0965 EDFOUNDATIONSRQ.ORG

MAKING SENSE OF EVERYDAY MIRACLES.

GLASSER SCHOENBAUM HUMAN SERVICES CENTER

PULLING OFF MIRACLES ISN’T EASY. But on 17th Street they are happening every day, thanks to the 18 determined nonprofits located at the Glasser Schoenbaum “Campus of Caring.” These nonprofits provide services ranging from housing the homeless, to literacy training, to children’s medical care. Glasser Schoenbaum’s role in these miracles is simple: providing quality offices and amenities for rent at nearly half the current market rate. For its occupants, the reduced overhead cost turns those dollars back to accomplishing their missions and serving people who are in need. The icing on the cake? The proximity of the campus community means each nonprofit has more opportunity for partnerships and referrals right where they live on 17th Street.

To learn more, you are invited to Miracles on 17th Street, an evening at the “Campus of Caring” on Nov. 19 at 5:30 p.m.

MISSION: To be the leader of a collaborative community providing high-quality, accessible facilities and resources for the local human services nonprofit sector.

CONTACT 1750 17th St., Bldg J-1, Sarasota, FL 34234 (941) 365-4545 GS-HUMANSERVICES.ORG/EVENT/MIRACLES SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2017

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JFCS OF THE SUNCOAST

EMBRACING OUR COMMUNITY WITH CARE. JFCS OF THE SUNCOAST provides wrap-around social services to those in need, supporting the most vulnerable members of our community in order to empower them toward self-sufficiency. JFCS programs target at-risk youth, caregivers and seniors, individuals impacted by a cancer diagnosis, Holocaust survivors, homeless veterans and their families, and people who need help to overcome life’s challenges. JFCS provides a wide array of programs ranging from supportive services to prevent family homelessness to assistance in helping caregivers cope with their loved one’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis as well as supportive counseling and skills so at-risk youth can succeed both emotionally and academically. Our services are delivered on a non-denominational basis, inspired by the Jewish tradition of helping all people.

MISSION: Guided by the Jewish tradition of helping all people, JFCS empowers individuals and families toward self-sufficiency.

CONTACT 2688 Fruitville Road Sarasota, FL 34237 (941) 366-2224 JFCS-CARES.ORG

KEY CHORALE, INC.

INNOVATION, COLLABORATION, COMMUNITY, CREATIVITY. KEY CHORALE, Sarasota’s only symphonic chorus, has been performing and promoting choral music of the highest quality since its inception in 1985. The semi-professional chorale is comprised of 110 auditioned singers, as well as a select chamber chorus. Under the direction of Joseph Caulkins since 2006, Key Chorale has become a producer of collaborative musical events that embrace and support our community, engaging in multiple outreach projects and musical partnerships.

Key Chorale’s most recent album features two world premiere recordings commissioned from composer Ola Gjeilo, including the title track ARISE, commissioned to accompany the aerial ballet of NEA National Heritage Fellow Dolly Jacobs at the 2017 Smithsonian Folklife Festival Cirque des Voix performances, and The Lake Isle II commission by Key Chorale, as well as other works by Ola Gjeilo and contemporary composers highlighting themes of beauty, transformation and sacred harmony.

MISSION: Key Chorale is dedicated to performing and promoting choral music of the highest quality.

CONTACT P.O. Box 20613, Sarasota, FL 34236 (941) 921-4845 KEYCHORALE.ORG 54

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SHINING NEW LIGHT ON LIVING WITH VISION LOSS.

LIGHTHOUSE OF MANASOTA

VISUAL IMPAIRMENT SHOULD NOT BE A BARRIER to appreciating all that life has to offer. Lighthouse of Manasota offers orientation and mobility training so the blind and those with low vision can safely navigate sidewalks and street crossings, whether downtown or at home. Our trained and certified staff work to ensure our clients can enjoy independent lives, as an active part of the community.

Lighthouse has programs to help anyone with low vision, from early childhood through seniors, all at no cost to participants. Classes are offered in independent living, assistive technology, kitchen and cooking safety, magnifying workshops and vocational rehabilitation.

Lighthouse is also home to the Peepers Low Vision Store, offering a wide selection of products, with an expert staff to assist customers with hands-on testing of equipment to be certain the right product meets their individual needs.

MISSION: To educate and empower those affected by vision loss so they may enjoy happy, healthy and independent lives.

CONTACT 7318 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34243 (941) 359-1404 LIGHTHOUSEOFMANASOTA.ORG

CARE. NO MATTER WHAT.

PLANNED PARENTHOOD OF SOUTHWEST AND CENTRAL FLORIDA

CARE. NO MATTER WHAT. That is their promise to our community.

One in five women has turned to Planned Parenthood as a trusted provider of high-quality, affordable, and non-judgmental reproductive health care and information.

PP Health centers throughout the region serve the insured and uninsured, women and men, providing lifesaving cancer screenings, birth control, prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted disease, and breast health services.

In Sarasota and Manatee counties, more than 5,500 patients are served annually. Outreach education is also provided to thousands of area young people through evidence-based programs and sexuality education presentations.

At Planned Parenthood, they believe that care is much more than the services they provide—it’s the way they approach the world.

For more than 100 years—50 years locally—they have been the country’s leader in providing and protecting reproductive health care, rights and access.

MISSION: To provide affordable access to comprehensive reproductive health care and accurate health information through patient care, education and advocacy.

CONTACT 736 Central Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236 (941) 365-3913 Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida

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EXPLORE THE WORLD AROUND YOU.

SOUTH FLORIDA MUSEUM AND BISHOP PLANETARIUM

THE SOUTH FLORIDA MUSEUM (SFM) has been helping people explore the world around them for generations—engaging audiences, encouraging understanding and inspiring all ages to connect to the past, present and future of the planet we all share.

The only natural history museum on the Gulf coast, SFM is an anchor attraction in downtown Bradenton and a vital part of the region’s educational, tourism and business landscapes.

A state-of-the-art digital planetarium, a manatee rehabilitation aquarium and changing exhibits help visitors explore the far reaches of the universe as well as the natural history of our planet and its life from our own distinctive Florida perspective.

SFM offers programs for students and curious people of all ages, including think+drink (science) discussions, live star talks, family nights, summer camps, lifelong learning sessions and lectures.

MISSION: To engage and inspire learners of all ages; we protect, interpret and communicate scientific and cultural knowledge of Florida, the world, and our universe.

CONTACT 201 10th St. W. Bradenton, FL 34205 (941) 746-4131 SOUTHFLORIDAMUSEUM.ORG

WORKING TOGETHER TO SAVE LIVES.

SUNCOAST BLOOD BANK

SUNCOAST BLOOD BANK is more than the typical provider of blood products. Not only does SunCoast supply local hospitals with lifesaving blood products around the clock, 365 days a year (much of it used for cancer patients), it also administers a range of medically ordered bedside therapeutic blood procedures. In addition, SunCoast performs mononuclear cellular therapy, a life-extending treatment for late-stage prostate cancer patients. It also participates in research programs working to identify new strains of viruses, bacteria and parasites. As a nonprofit blood bank, it must raise the funds necessary to acquire the most up-to-date and technically advanced equipment to enhance the donor experience, ensure safety of the products and operate as efficiently as possible. Its work would not be possible without loyal donors. SunCoast was proud to be honored by the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce as the 2017 Nonprofit of the Year.

MISSION: SunCoast Blood Bank provides a reliable supply of quality blood products and services to hospitals and health centers in need.

CONTACT Jayne Giroux Director of Community Development (941) 954-1600 ext. 124 jgiroux@scbb.org SCBB.ORG 56

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VAN WEZEL FOUNDATION

ENRICHING LIVES THROUGH THE PERFORMING ARTS. FOR 30 YEARS, the Van Wezel Foundation has operated as a partner, but independently, of the city-owned Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. It has directed millions of dollars in support of the Hall’s ongoing community outreach, capital improvements and award-winning education programs.

Each year, more than 30,000 students from four area counties are inspired and enriched by the arts through the Van Wezel Schooltime Performance Program, an integrative arts education program offered to schools that brings reading and classroom lessons to life on stage. The program provides for grade-level curriculum, teacher training workshops and busing to transport students to the hall for a live performance. Learning in, through and about the arts engages students on another level, increases understanding and often results in a lifelong appreciation for the arts. Join us in our mission to inspire a child and enrich a life through the magic of the arts!

MISSION: Create a world-class performing arts center that enriches the community, supports arts education and inspires young minds.

CONTACT 777 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34238 (941) 366-5578 VWFOUNDATION.ORG

SAVE THE DATE Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida presents

Leaving in High Style A Fashion Luncheon honoring retiring CEO, Barbara

A. Zdravecky

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2017 AT NOON – MICHAEL’S ON EAST JOIN US FOR OUR ANNUAL FASHION LUNCHEON CELEBRATING THE LEGACY AND TENURE OF

CEO, BARBARA A. ZDRAVECKY DON YOUR MOST STYLISH THREADS AT THIS FASHION SHOW LUNCHEON BENEFITTING PLANNED PARENTHOOD OF SOUTHWEST AND CENTRAL FLORIDA

Please note: Due to high demand, we’ve added an additional event this Fall to honor Barbara! Join us for one, or both!

It’s All About BAZ: a Cocktail Affair celebrating Barbara A. Zdravecky Wednesday evening, November 29, 2017 at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.

Details available at www.ppswcf.org/events

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Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital combines over 90 years of compassionate pediatric care with the innovation and experience of one of the world’s leading health care systems. We keep patients and families at the center of care while providing leading-edge treatments, pioneering research to cure and prevent childhood diseases and training the next generation of pediatric experts.

As a mission-driven health system, we are supported by a generous community who help us provide hope and healing to children across Florida and beyond.

Learn more or Donate at HopkinsAllChildrens.org

ADV ERT ISM EN T

The mission

of The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee is to strengthen Jewish life and identity in our community, provide for Jewish people in need and promote support for Israel. We fulfill our mission by supporting programs that care for the vulnerable in Sarasota-Manatee, in Israel and around the world. We build community through strong relationships with partners in education, cultural arts, social services and area nonprofits.

“ Federation

HELPS INDIVIDUALS FIND THEIR PATHWAY TO JEWISH LIFE, CONNECTS OUR COMMUNITY TO ISRAEL AND INSPIRES INTERFAITH DIALOGUE.

”

The Jewish Federation is the only local organization focused on the whole — all of us thriving together. We are the center of Jewish life—serving as community convener, fostering an open exchange of ideas, developing programs and strengthening services that connect our constituents to their Jewish identity, and evaluating the effectiveness and impact of all programs and services. Our goal is to create a thriving community that embraces diverse individuals and offers meaningful Jewish experiences. We recognize that we cannot do this alone—it takes a strong, vibrant community to accomplish these tasks. By engaging both the Jewish and secular communities, we build relationships that allow us to broaden the menu of touch points through which individuals can connect—with the Federation and with one another. With your help, we will continue to work together to achieve our vision of a vibrant Jewish community.

580 McIntosh Road Sarasota, FL 34232 (941) 371-4546 | jfedsrq.org SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2017

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CENTERSTATE BANK

MI S S I O N CenterState focuses on sustainability, a long-term horizon and the career development of our team.

We believe in the betterment of the communities in which we live and work.

VOLUNTEEER CONTRIBUTIONS 2,202 hours volunteered within Sarasota and Manatee counties in 2016.

FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS $25,066 contributed within Sarasota and Manatee counties in 2016.

LARRY BERKERY, JORDAN HALLAM, SHAUN MERRIMAN, AND DENNIS MURPHY

EMPLOYEE SUPPORT CenterState employees support human services organizations and community events.

CenterState Employees Give Back.

CENTERSTATE BANK was founded with a belief in quality service and community focus. Our core values focus on themes of sustainability, a long-term horizon and the career development of our team. We believe that local ownership and local management translate into a better bank.

CenterState strongly encourages every employee to take an active volunteer role in the communities in which they work and live. Bank management is thrilled to be able to provide this level of support to local organizations and is proud of their employees for giving so much of their personal time to better the community.

During 2016, Sarasota and Manatee County CenterState employees volunteered a combined 2,202 hours within community organizations and generously contributed $25,066 to local charities.

Among the many organizations benefitting from CenterState’s involvement and contributions are: The United Way, Southeastern Guide Dogs, The American Heart Association, local food banks, schools, and many other human services organizations. In addition, the bank also sponsors several community events such as: The YMCA Ringling Bridge Run, the Van Wezel Gala, Forks & Corks, and the Cat Depot Golf Classic.

COM PAN I ES T H AT CAR E

CONTACT Shaun Merriman Community President Sarasota (941) 306-0100 CENTERSTATEBANK.COM

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CS&L CPAs

MI S S I O N Through generosity of time, money and passion to serve CS&L employees are making the region a great place to live and thrive.

SUPPORT CS&L CPAs supports numerous nonprofit organizations throughout the year through volunteer hours, fund-raising efforts, sponsorship support, donations and more.

Positive impact through leadership.

CS&L HAS THE DISTINCT PRIVILEGE of working in a community with outstanding philanthropic opportunities, and it has a history of rising to meet our responsibility of good corporate citizenship. Annually, the firm is a corporate sponsor of more than 20 charitable events and activities for charitable organizations across the region. The firm also coordinates frequent employee volunteer projects and donation drives with local organizations who need extra hands.

Beyond its firm-hosted programs, CS&L encourages individual community involvement and service. More than 25 percent of CS&L staff members currently serve in a board or committee leadership capacity and many more volunteer their time, dollars and energy to local organizations all year round. For these engaged individuals, CS&L provides support through event sponsorship dollars, in-kind donations and time off so employees can perform their board leadership responsibilities.

CS&L's community service initiative, CS&L Cares, was established on its 60th anniversary in 2014. With a wide variety of giving opportunities, the success of that campaign so motivated and empowered employees that the firm has continued the platform. CS&L Cares has become a cornerstone of the firm's culture.

Enthusiasm and dedication are characteristics that all CS&L employees exhibit, whether working to solve a complex client challenge or volunteering their time and talent to assist local organizations. Through generosity of time, money and the passion to serve - CS&L employees are making the region a great place to live and thrive.

COM PAN I ES T H AT CA RE

GENEROSITY CS&L was recognized as the Large Company Winner among 941CEO’s Greater Good Awards in 2016 for demonstrating philanthropic commitment through innovative giving strategies and community impact.

SARASOTA 1515 Ringling Blvd., Suite 900 Sarasota FL 34236 (941) 954-4040 BRADENTON 1001 Third Ave. W., Suite 700 Bradenton, FL 34205 (941) 748-1040 TAMPA 101 E. Kennedy Blvd., Suite 1460 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 490-4490 CSLCPA.COM

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REAL PEOPLE REAL SAVINGS.

CANADA MED SERVICES ⁄ DISCOUNT PRESCRIPTION SERVICES

OUR RESPONSE TO CONTRIBUTING TO A THRIVING COMMUNITY Building Canada Med Services by offering services that benefit the community has always been a passion of mine. It means contributing to the community as a whole and doing your part. We’re responding to your needs by providing high-quality medications at budgetfriendly prices sourced with Certified Partner Pharmacies.

Charity of Choice is our way of saying ‘thanks’ to the local organizations who support our community and do so much for the arts, culture, sciences, education, health, animal rescue and community outreach. As a customer, you can select one of our 31 organizations in Sarasota and Manatee County; each time you place an order a donation will be made by us on your behalf.

MISSION: To provide an environment where our customers are 100 percent satisfied and employees feel happy, motivated and challenged to be the best for themselves, our customers and our community every day.

CONTACT 4113 Bee Ridge Road Sarasota FL 34233 (941) 927-3600

1 8 t h

EMcEEs The BoBs! Trisolini & Nosal

a n n u a l

D a n c i n g

w i t h

o u r

s t a r s

Featuring

BEn

BoBicK

Dr. stEPhEn coVErt

rEBEcca hanson

oct

21

Donna KoFFMan

clarK wEst

EliZaBEth wEXlEr

2017

6:30 p.m.

Cocktails, Dinner and Dance, Dance, Dance!

Michael’s On East Individual tickets: $250

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For sponsorship opportunities and to reserve the BEST tables, call 366-0461 x 11130

941CEO

BIZ BITES TALK ● BY RUTH LANDO

The Capital Grille

Dining Rewards

Dinner on the company credit card pays off at these five restaurants.

Beach Bistro

When good impressions are paramount, make the trek to Anna Maria Island’s Beach Bistro. Tucked at the end of a beachfront condo, the restaurant, overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, has won accolades from Bon Appetit, Food and Wine, Golden Spoon, Zagat and Wine Spectator. Eat in the clubby bar, outside on the white sand beach or in the jewel box of a dining room. The creative menu includes bouillabaisse, roasted maple leaf Long Island duckling, Colorado lamb and butter poached Nova Scotia lobster with Hudson Valley foie gras. Top-shelf cocktails, a vast array of “estoteric” wines and other libations further dazzle the palate.

Beach Bistro, 6600 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, (941) 778-6444, beachbistro.com.

JENN SOOS

The Table Creekside

Global, New American cuisine rules at this cosmopolitan restaurant on Phillippi Creek. From the contemporary chill bar to the outside tables by the water, The Table offers original and artfully presented food and imaginative, handcrafted drinks. The wine list isn’t huge, but the selective inventory pairs well with the restaurant’s global theme. Try the inventive “Global Bites” and the small but classy raw bar offerings. The Barcelona Mixed Grill, starring lollipop lamb, saltwater prawns, grilled octopus and creative garnishes, is a menu fixture, while chef’s specials such as lobster carbonara and Texas de Korea (Korean BBQ short ribs) demonstrate the kitchen’s versatility.

The Table Creekside, 5365 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, (941) 921-9465, tablesrq.com.

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It probably isn’t every day that you crave a foie gras crème brûlée appetizer or the “Grand Plateau,” boasting jumbo lump crab, North Atlantic lobster, shrimp cocktail and oysters on the half shell—a $100 engine starter. But when you’re throwing expenses to the wind, follow the business crowd to The Capital Grille. In the style of the great New York and Chicago steak houses, dry-aged and hand-cut steaks are king here. So are huge portions, à la carte pricing, topshelf liquors and a broad menu that suggests you share the ultra-generous sides. Ask the sommelier to recommend from the award-winning wine list. The Capital Grille, 180 University Town Center Drive, Lakewood Ranch, (941) 256-3647, thecapitalgrille.com.

Roessler’s

With its bucolic, wedding-worthy, threeacre setting, Roessler’s has been a finedining fixture in south Sarasota for almost four decades. House specialties such as escargot à la Bourguignonne, veal sweetbreads and steak Diane stay true to the high-end Continental theme of this family-owned and operated restaurant. A Wine Spectator “Best of Award of Excellence” list offers extensive

choices. Dine in the main room adorned with Swarovski chandeliers or in the fireplace room with its brick hearth and stained glass windows. The private Wine Room can be reserved for up to 16. Roessler’s Restaurant, 2033 Vamo Way, Sarasota, (941)-966-5688, roesslersrestaurant.com.

Antoine’s

Housed in a humble strip mall across from Ed Smith Stadium is Antoine’s, which offers a dining experience that is anything but ordinary. Billed as French-Modern European, Antoine’s specialties come from surf and turf and change regularly. Try one of the 10 varieties of authentic Belgianstyle PEI moules-frites (Prince Edward Island mussels and French fries) in savory broth served with house made bread. The dish begins humbly with the traditional marinière base of celery, onions and butter embellished, depending on the order, with tomatoes and basil, curry and apple, Chardonnay, garlic and cream. Pace yourself for the finalé of decadent, Belgian chocolate-draped profiteroles. Antoine’s Restaurant, 1100 N. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota, (941)-331-1400, antoiniessarasota.com. π The Table Creekside’s Dover sole

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LOVE THIS STUFF ● BY HANNAH WALLACE

Execs share their latest obsessions.

“Would it be nerdy to say that I’m loving my Wonder Woman forever stamps? I love to write notes and letters, and I’m one of those people who asks the nice people in the post office to show me all of their stamp choices. These have colors and representation of women who get it done!”—SUSIE BOWIE, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MANATEE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

“I love Twitter. I use @ NancysBarBQ to post restaurant-related news and to engage in the community.

I retweet [local accounts]— it gets our name out there while showing support. I'm a political junkie, too, and I use the same account to follow a crazy range of news and political commentary. I am such a liberal firebrand, I do my best to keep a wall between my personal political leanings and what @NancysBarBQ is about as a brand. Just lately I'm thinking that I need a personal Twitter account so I can take the muzzle off when I want.”

“As the parents of a 3-year-old, my wife and I are loving the Contigo Kids Water Bottle.

It’s got enough capacity that you’re not filling it up constantly, it never leaks, its design keeps the mouthpiece clean, and its pop-up spout is fun for the kiddo.”—KEVIN COOPER, PRESIDENT, THE GREATER

—NANCY KROHNGOLD, OWNER, NANCY’S BAR-B-Q

SARASOTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

“I recommend the Arts & Cultural Alliance’s Sarasota Culture Collective. If you’re under 40, you can get discounted tickets to seven arts organizations, their cocktail events and behind-the-scenes experiences. It lets you connect with other young professionals who have a common interest in the arts. My wife and I have made some great friends.”—KYLE DEERY,

“My Apple Watch applies to every aspect of my life, whether professional or personal. It not only has the capability of allowing me to stay in the know, but it can tell me to breathe, move and be strong during high-stress times.”

—MEREDITH SCERBA, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, 2017 WORLD ROWING CHAMPIONSHIPS

MARKETING DIRECTOR, U.S. MASTERS SWIMMING

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WHAT I’VE LEARNED

Here’s Lucy

NO

MAT TER HOW DAUNTING THE ROAD, LUC Y C AL AUT TI HA S NE VER BEEN AFR AID TO FOLLOW HER DRE AMS. She joined the Navy in the 1960s when women represented just 1 percent of that branch. Not long after her service, the native of New York City boarded a Greyhound bus for North Dakota, where she was greeted by a minus-28-degree wind chill. Calautti found a home in North Dakota government, eventually becoming the campaign manager for a U.S. Senate candidate who started 38 points behind in the polls. Kent Conrad not only won the race, he married Calautti. In 1999, Calautti, a self-described “baseball maniac,” hatched a plan to attend the All-Star game at Boston’s Fenway Park, where she made her way to the commissioner’s box between innings, tapped Bud Selig on the shoulder and asked him for a job. She got it—becoming director of government relations for Major League Baseball.

Today, Calautti and Conrad split time among homes in Sarasota, Washington, D.C., and North Dakota.

Calautti serves as president of the historic National Woman’s Party, which spearheaded women’s suffrage nearly 100 years ago, and which today works on women’s equality issues.

She also heads her own government relations firm, Dakota Strategies, which represents Major League Baseball and another of Calautti’s passions, children’s hospitals.

In a recent interview with 941CEO, Calautti reflected on her career and the people who influenced and inspired her.

“My mother and father greatly influenced my values. My father spoke only Italian until he entered first grade. My mother spoke only Yiddish until she entered school. Both parents changed their names to be more American: from Pasquale to Bill and from Yosephine to Judy. Both taught me that in America, hard work brings success. I’ve tried to emulate their work ethic my entire life.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF LUCY CALAUTTI

Politics, baseball and women’s issues have fueled Lucy Calautti’s career. ● BY DAVID HACKETT

Dakota Strategies’ Lucy Calautti and husband Kent Conrad.

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“I have always been determined that being a woman would not be a handicap. When there was injustice, I was determined to fight it. When I came out of the Navy, women were not eligible for GI Bill benefits. I was an aerial photographer in the Navy, hanging out of airplanes, and I knew that I deserved the benefits men were receiving. So I joined a class-action lawsuit. The suit was successful and it enabled me to attend college, earning a master’s degree in English from North Dakota State University.”

But we got a lot done because we were always willing to listen to the other side and compromise. I learned, in part from the successes of both Kent and Byron, that doing your homework and being prepared yields victory. If you do that and are willing to hear the other side, you can find common ground. It’s a shame we’re seeing so little of that today in Congress.”

“I’m not a baseball fan. I’m a baseball maniac. It’s a smart person’s game, just the numbers themselves, how

prevent small airplanes from flying over stadiums during games, which I believe has made the stadiums much safer and removed a source of worry for fans.”

“I have worked in a lot of maledominated jobs. I never experienced sexual harassment, but like many women, I have felt belittled at times.

Having people question whether I was good enough because I was a woman.

It takes a toll. But my advice is not to sulk, to exhibit confidence, even if you

“I believe we should do things every day that make us happy, or else find something different to do. I also believe in having more than one thing that you feel passionate about.

It can’t be all work.”

“After graduation, I planned to be a high school teacher, but the superintendent turned me down because he said the school only hired men who could coach sports as English teachers. I would have loved to have coached, but there were no girls’ sports programs then. I filed a civil rights complaint, and was eventually offered the job, but I had already taken another position.”

“My first job in government was for North Dakota tax commissioner Byron Dorgan. I was hired to translate the tax laws into English. I had a sign on my desk, ‘You may know taxes, but leave the syntax to me.’ I eventually became Byron’s chief of staff when he became a congressman and then a senator. At the same time, my husband, Kent Conrad, was a U.S. Senator. We all faced great challenges because North Dakota is a Republican state and here we were Democrats.

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they affect every aspect of the game.

I particularly love watching pitchers and thinking along with them about what kind of pitch they will throw to a hitter in each situation. It is endlessly fascinating. The New York Mets are my team, but I’ll watch four games a night. In the 1990s, I decided I wanted to work in Major League Baseball. I knew how to run a political campaign.

I devised a campaign for getting a job in baseball. I did my homework and found that Commissioner Selig valued strong women. He was married, with three daughters, one of whom took over the Milwaukee Brewers from him when he became commissioner.

I devised a plan to go to the All-Star game in Fenway Park. I knew where his suite was and I went down to it, introduced myself and told him why I was the right person to represent baseball in its relationship with government. After 9/11, we joined with the NFL in working with Congress to

don’t really feel it, and most of all to keep your head down and just work as hard as you can. I was also blessed to work with men who always had my back. Kent had such confidence in me that he asked me to manage his first U.S. Senate campaign. Early in my career, a North Dakota legislator actually asked me to get him a cup of coffee. Byron Dorgan jumped in and said, ‘You don’t understand. She’s an executive.’ I really appreciated that.”

“I’ve always worked and played at things that make me happy. I believe we should do things every day that make us happy, or else find something different to do. I also believe in having more than one thing that you feel passionate about. It can’t be all work. I’m passionate about my family, politics, women’s issues, baseball, children’s hospitals, and those passions have made my life interesting and rewarding.” ■ 67

FAST TRACK TALK MOVERS, SHAKERS & HEADLINE MAKERS

promoted to director of marketing and business development, Ellenton Premium Outlets. ▶▶ J E F F R E Y A R A K E L I A N , CEO, Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee. ▶▶ J O H N M C C A R T H Y , executive director, Historic Spanish Point. ▶ ▶ PAT R I C K M C Q U I L L A N , director of major gifts; and K A R A S A U N D E R S , director of communications, Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation. ▶ ▶ K U R T B A U E R , promoted to project manager; M A R C O O R L A N D O and C A R L O S G O N Z Á L E Z , senior project managers; and D AV I D K O VA C S , building information modeling technician, Fawley Bryant Architecture. ▶ ▶ D . R YA N T H O M P S O N , vice president, J.L. Bainbridge & Company. ▶ ▶ S . D AV I D A N T O N , attorney of counsel, law firm of Walters Levine & Lozano. ▶▶ S T E P H E N R O D R I G U E Z , president and CEO, Suncoast Aquatic Nature Center Associates. ▶▶

68

ZULEMA VEGA ,

C O LT O N F. C A S T R O ,

attorney, law firm of Williams Parker. ▶ ▶ Majors C H A R L E S A N D J U L I E W H I T E N , area commanders, Salvation Army-Sarasota. ▶ ▶ P E T E R M C G A R R Y , chief business development officer, Michael Saunders & Company. ▶ ▶ M A R K N O B L E , executive director, La Musica. ▶ ▶ M A R I A C A R U S O , chief financial officer, Venice Regional Bayfront Health. ▶ ▶ B R E T T B L A N K , Quay Sarasota development manager, GreenPointe Communities. ▶ ▶ K E R R Y S TA N I S I C , D . D . S . , University Parkway Dental. ▶▶ S H E L B Y I S A A C S O N , public relations manager, Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. ▶ ▶ G I N O C A L L E J A , executive chef, Siesta Key Oyster Bar. ▶ ▶ J A R Y D H E A R N , executive chef, Polo Grill and Bar. ▶ ▶ G R E G L O N D O N , director of artistic operations; and B E C C A J E N N I N G S , marketing director, Florida Studio Theatre.

▶ ▶ S C O T T PA R K E , vice president of planning and institutional effectiveness, State College of Florida Manatee-Sarasota.

Business of the Year; and D U T C H C R A F T E R S , Retail Business of the Year. ▶▶

D R . A N D R E W M O U LT O N

received the HCA Humanitarian Frist Award from Doctors Hospital of Sarasota. ▶ ▶ The VA N W E Z E L PERFORMING ARTS HALL

▶ ▶ L O U W O R O C H , promoted to director of finance; R O S E A N N E FA I R C H I L D , dean of nursing and health professions; and S H A N - M E I P H I L L I P S , assistant director of finance, State College of Florida Manatee-Sarasota. ▶▶ H E I D I A N N B A L D W I N , CPA, Shinn & Co.

once again was named the No. 1 performing arts hall in North America in the 2,000-seat category by Venues Today. ▶▶

S A R A S O TA M E M O R I A L

was named a Center of Excellence for hip and knee replacement by the hospital accrediting organization DNV-GL Healthcare USA; was listed among America’s “Most Wired” hospitals by the American Hospital Association; and earned a NICHE (Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders) designation.

H O S P I TA L

ACCOLADES ▶▶

C ALDWELL TRUS T

received the overall 2017 Frank G. Berlin Sr. Small Business Award from the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, and also was winner in the professional services category. Other awards: H E A R I N G L O S S C O M PA N Y

A S S O C I AT I O N O F S A R A S O TA , Health Care & Wellness Organization of the Year; M I X O N F R U I T FA R M , Hospitality & Tourism Organization of the Year; SUNCOA S T BLOOD BANK , Nonprofit Organization of the Year; C O A S T T O C O A S T P O O L S , Products & Services

ANNE BREITINGER

ZULEMA VEGA

promoted to executive director; and M A G G I E W O O D , events manager, Sarasota-Manatee Originals.

▶▶

SHAN-MEI PHILLIPS

SAR AH FIRSTENBERGER ,

SCOTT PARKE

▶▶

ROSEANNE FAIRCHILD

POSITIONS TAKEN

Realize Bradenton elected chair, S U E R E V E L L vice chair, and M E L O D I E R I C H , treasurer.

▶▶

ANNE BREITINGER

▶▶

D O C T O R S H O S P I TA L

was named one of the “best places to work” by Modern Healthcare magazine. ▶▶

L AKEWOOD R ANCH

received the American Heart Association/American Stroke MEDICAL CENTER

941CEO

▶▶

JOHN MCCARTHY

received the 2017 Hero of History award from the Historical Society of Sarasota County. ▶▶

D R . A R T H U R VA L A D I E

received the Adult Volunteer Award from the Manatee Chamber of Commerce’s Champions of Healthcare. ▶▶

RITE TECHNOLOGY

received the SHARP AAA Platinum Service Provider award from Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America, a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation. ▶▶ K E R R Y K I R S C H N E R , M A R L E N E H A U C K and D R .

L U I S A . M O N T E S joined the board of Coastal Behavioral Healthcare.

▶ ▶ S H A R O N K U N K E L of Wordslinger Marketing & PR was named to the 2017 Joe Curley Rising Leader Class of the Florida Public Relations Association. ▶▶

NEW COLLEGE OF

was named a “Best Buy” in the 2018 edition of the Fiske Guide to Colleges. ▶ ▶ Manasota SCORE announced these board officers: D E N N I S Z I N K , re-elected chair; W I L L I A M M U R R AY , vice chair; B O B B E R T E L S B E C K , re-elected treasurer; and PAT R I C I A L O F T U S , secretary. ▶▶ A D R I Z E R , B I G T O P B R E W I N G C O M PA N Y , C L I C K B O O T H and L I G H T S P E E D V O I C E were included among 50 Florida businesses selected as Florida Companies to Watch

by GrowFL. FLORIDA

▶▶

NATI SHABAT

FAST TRACKER

Association’s Get With The Guidelines-Stroke Silver Plus Quality Achievement Award.

S A R A S O TA C O U N T Y

earned the 2017 Achievement of Excellence in Procurement award from the National Procurement Institute for the third consecutive year.

MOVING AND OPENING The W E S T I N S A R A S O TA opened at 1175 N. Gulfstream Ave. in downtown Sarasota.

JEFFREY ARAKELIAN has taken over the 6,500-member Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee from longtime CEO Kathy Roberts, who is retiring. Formerly the CEO of the Greater Hartford Association of Realtors in Connecticut with 4,000-plus members in 57 towns, Arakelian, who plans to live in a Sarasota condo, is looking forward to the climate and the golf.

The summer heat doesn’t worry him.

Arakelian spent eight years in Palm Desert, California. “It gets to be about 115 degrees every day in the month of July,” he says.—Rick Morgan

▶▶

▶ ▶ N AT I S H A B AT joined the board of Community AIDS Network. ▶ ▶ B E T S Y B E N A C joined the board of the Bradenton Kiwanis Foundation. ▶ ▶ Take Stock in Children of Manatee County announced its new board officers: VINCENT FODERINGHAM, chair; M A R K B A R N E B E Y , vice chair; A N N E H E L L E R , secretary; M I C H A E L C O R L E Y , treasurer; and S A N DY H A A S M A R T E N S , assistant treasurer. ▶ ▶ Fifteen attorneys from the law firm of W I L L I A M S PA R K E R ; nine attorneys from the law firm of I C A R D M E R R I L L ; and four from the law firm of S Y P R E T T, M E S H A D were named to the 2017 Super Lawyers list.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2017

▶▶

AMEURO CONSTRUC TION

moved to 29 N. Orange Ave. in Sarasota. ▶ ▶ 9 R O U N D kickboxing gym opened at 4635 Cortez Road W. in Bradenton.

A N D C O N S U LT I N G

▶▶

HORNBACK CHIROPR AC TIC

opened a second office at 8386 Market St. in Lakewood Ranch.

AND WELLNESS

▶▶

H YAT T P L A C E S A R A S O TA /

L A K E W O O D R A N C H opened at 6021 Exchange Way in Lakewood Ranch. ▶▶

PROFESSIONAL WEB

launched the Suncoast Vacation Network.

DESIGNS ▶▶

D E TA I L X P E R T S O F

S A R A S O TA - M A N AT E E

has opened at 1767 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., #297, in Lakewood Ranch.

COUNT Y

▶▶

The J E A N

& ALFRED

G O L D S T E I N H E A LT H C E N T E R AT S A R A S O TA MEMORIAL INTERNAL MEDICINE PR AC TICEN E W T O W N opened at 1825 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way in Sarasota. ▶▶

Z O TA B E A C H R E S O R T

opened at 4711 Gulf of Mexico Drive on Longboat Key. ▶▶

COMPLETE NUTRITION

reopened at 81 N. Cattlemen Road in Sarasota. ▶▶

BOWS & ARROWS

opened in The Market at UTC, 5275 University Parkway, Suite 133, University Park. ▶ ▶ M E T R O D I N E R opened at Westfield Siesta Key Mall.

BOUTIQUE

▶▶

NEURO CHALLENGE

opened a Manatee County office at 3639 Cortez Road W., Suite 104, Bradenton.

F O U N D AT I O N

▶▶

FLOORFORCE MOVING

C O M PA N Y ,

a software and digital marketing company, moved its headquarters to the Bold building in downtown Sarasota. ▶ ▶ Ryan Bates opened a W I N D O W G E N I E franchise in Sarasota. ▶▶

NOTHING BUNDT CAKES

opened at 5354 Fruitville Road in Sarasota. ▶▶

A SCENT AUDIOLOGY

opened at 5860 Ranch Lake Blvd. in Lakewood Ranch.■ AND HEARING

69

11

SCOPE Annual Celebration and Boundary Crosser Award, honoring Michael Klauber, 5:30-7 p.m. at Michael’s On East, 1212 East Ave. S., Sarasota. $50.

Register at scopesarasota.org.

RINGLING COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN

oct.

26

oct.

sep.

6-7

Venice Area Chamber of Commerce Consumer Expo, featuring dozens of area businesses, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Venice Community Center, 326 Nokomis Ave. S., Venice.

Open to the public; free admission. For details, visit venicechamber.com.

20

Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance Main Street Block Party, 5-8 p.m. at Main Street, Lakewood Ranch.

Free; open to the public. for details, visit www.lwrba.org.

The Arts Means Business luncheon sponsored by the Arts and Cultural Alliance and Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County, 11:30 a.m. at Michael’s On East, 1212 East Ave. S., Sarasota. For details, visit edcsarasotacounty.com or sarasotaarts.org.

5

USF Sarasota-Manatee Brunch on the Bay, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at USF Sarasota-Manatee, 8350 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $125. For details, visit usfsm.edu/brunch. nov.

19

East Meets West Regional Business Expo, co-sponsored by the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance and Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce, 4:30-7 p.m. at Robarts Arena, 3000 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota. $5. For details, visit eastmeetswestexpo.com.

Venice Area Chamber of Commerce 93rd Annual Banquet and Installation of Officers, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at Mission Valley Country Club, 1851 Mission Valley Blvd., Venice. To register, visit venicechamber.com.

5

The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce 97th Annual Meeting, 11:30 a.m.-1:15 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota, 1000 Boulevard of the Arts.

Register at sarasotachamber.com.

oct.

sep.

Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County Annual Meeting, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota, 1000 Boulevard of the Arts. Register at edcsarasotacounty.com.

oct.

7

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER

oct.

AGENDA TALK

Cultivating Tomorrow’s Leaders “Your generosity empowers students like me to become the strong, creative leaders of our generation. Thank you!”

Lillian Gottwald | Class of 2012 | Illustration

Learn how you can invest in a collective, creative economy with Ringling College. www.ringling.edu/giving 941.309.4733 giving@ringling.edu

70

941CEO

THE SEEN TALK

2

3

1

941CEO'S WOMEN OF INFLUENCE 1 Catrese Estes and Dawn Stanhope, Boys and Girls Clubs of Manatee County 2 Jessica Heinz, Kimley-Horn; Albani Gustason, Gulf Coast Builders Exchange 3 Heather Kasten, Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance; Sally Ullman, Sally Ullman Photography 4 Michelle Detweiler, IRISS Inc.; Diana Bill; Betty Schoenbaum, philanthropist; Stephanie Grepling, Meals on Wheels Plus of Manatee 5 Niki B Pleas and Coral Pleas, Cutting Loose Hair Salons 6 Claudia Baeza and Laurel James, Pineapple Yoga Studio 7 Cindy Fitzgibbons, Michelle Barrow, Amanda Jones and Christina Fredericks, Atlas Insurance 8 Linda Poteat-Brown and Jannon Pierce, EasterSeals Southwest Florida; Elaine Cook and Angela Borthwick, Zenith Insurance

PHOTOGRAPHY BY VINCENT DALE

7 72

4

5

6

8 941CEO

MORE SEEN PHOTOS AT 941CEO.COM

3 1

2

THE HUB OPENS AT ITS NEW LOCATION

4

1 Austin Cooper, Robert Reardon, Offrs. com; Andrew Hofheimer, Voalte 2 Jackie Rogers, Style Matters; Penny Hill, Fidelity Bank 3 Cecelia Penya; Jennifer Smith; Andre Goncalves, Offrs.com 4 Rich and Assunta Swier, The HuB founders 5 Mai Tran, Dimi Trovas, HuB Media 6 The HuB 7 Kelly Dowd, KD Logistics; Lucas Colavecchio, HuB Studios 8 Cutter Hume, Art To Walk On; Jamie Moriarty, New College of Florida 9 Solen Baumann, NAR; Ozlem Comer, Conscious Living and Wellness Consultant

5

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LORI SAX

6

7 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2017

8

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THE SEEN TALK

3

2

1

SARASOTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE’S SUMMER SHOWCASE 1 Ernie Withers, Mercedes-Benz of Sarasota; Brittany Lamont, Kevin Cooper, The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce 2 Samantha Valentin, Dariel Hodous, Goodwill Manasota 3 Lany Class, Hotel Indigo; Bernie Gottschalk, Visit Sarasota County; Dunia Dartawil, Hotel Indigo 4 Taylor Aultman, Willis Smith; Russ Bobbitt, Purmort & Martin; Dennis Murphy, Gateway Bank

4 PHOTOGRAPHY BY LORI SAX

1

2

3

VENICE AREA CHAMBER’S MEET THE LEADERS EVENT

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5

1 Christine Clyne, Village On The Isle; Stephanie Deiter, YMCA; Bill Failor, USF Sarasota-Manatee 2 Evan Duke, Classic Creations; Laura Kopple, Venice Area Board of Realtors 3 Gene Matthews, Boys and Girls Club; Jon Thaxton, Gulf Coast Community Foundation; Jason Krywko, UF College of Engineering 4 Ryan Hale, State College of Florida Venice 5 Emma Kate Silvestri, Venice Art Center; Erin Silk, Venice MainStreet Inc.; Bob Hite, Venice Regional Medical Center 941CEO

The consistency of The Balvenie is in the rhythm of his work.

D EN NIS M C BAIN , C OPPERSMITH AT THE BALVENIE FOR 55 YEARS .

The impressive copper stills give The Balvenie its distinctive character. Every repair and replacement needs to replicate the handcrafted originals from over a century ago. That’s why it takes his age-old skill passed down by hand to maintain the honeyed character of the whisky.

HANDCRAFTED AT THE BALVENIE

Handcrafted to be enjoyed responsibly.

The Balvenie Single Malt Scotch Whisky ©2017 Imported by William Grant & Sons, Inc. New York, NY.

OFF THE CLOCK TALK

OAR-ATOR

● BY KATHERINE FLANDERS

W

hen he’s not litigating for Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, attorney and Sarasota native David Wyant, 33, takes his competitive nature from the courtroom to the water.

Wyant began rowing in his sophomore year at Pine View with Sarasota Crew and quickly felt at home in the coxswain’s seat. Since then, he hasn’t been able to kick his rowing habit, even finding a way to coach high schoolers during his time in law school at the University of Memphis.

“THE VENUE AT BENDERSON PARK IS UNPARALLELED, AND ANNOUNCING THERE IS A THRILL.”

Sarasota attorney and crew coach David Wyant is winning accolades as a rowing race announcer.

Now back on the Suncoast, Wyant volunteers with Sarasota Crew as a coxswain coach for their high school program. Under Wyant’s guidance, two coxswains from Sarasota Crew earned places on the 2016 United States Junior National Team and went on to race in Rotterdam, Netherlands.

Wyant is also a race announcer, and his ability is capturing national attention. In April, he was voted fan’s choice in a competition to announce at the Intercollegiate Rowing Association Championships in Gold River, California. In June, when he narrated races at the USRowing Youth National Championships at Nathan Benderson

Park, he was asked to announce at this month’s World Rowing Championships in Sarasota.

Wyant has been involved with nearly every regatta hosted at Benderson Park in the last five years. “Since I was a coxswain, I think I have a unique view of what is happening as the boats come down the course,” he says. “I try to learn as much as I can about the individual athletes and racing history of the crew, which, combined with my knowledge of rowing, gives a crowd a real picture of what’s happening.”

The venue at Benderson Park is unparalleled, he says, and announcing there is a thrill.

“It’s become a center of personal enjoyment for me, and I am excited to inform the crowd at Worlds,” he says. ■

BARBARA BANKS

Attorney and coach David Wyant; rower: Travis Earp

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941CEO

Be Advised.

There is a Difference.

Development Opportunities FEATURED LISTINGS

5504, 5506, 5520 14TH STREET W, BRADENTON 3.25 Acres including 22,500 SF of retail space with excellent proximity to IMG Academy and SRQ Airport.

4480, 4484, 4486 FRUITVILLE ROAD, SARASOTA 3.14 Acres of vacant land situated between I-75 and downtown Sarasota, ideal for medical or office space.

Gail Bowden

Senior Commercial Real Estate Advisor

Cell 941.223.1525 Direct 941.525.8283

GailBowden@michaelsaunders.com www.GailBowden.com

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Sarasota, FL 34236 941.957.3730

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