


HOSPITAL EXPANSION IS UNDERWAY What
• Increased patient bed capacity to 240
• Expansion of complex cardiology, higher acuity neurological services, lab, pharmacy and pre-admission testing
• Contemporary patient-centric design features
• Universal designs for the pivoting of rooms to accommodate patient needs in real time
This is an exciting time of growth for our community. Projected completion of square foot patient bed tower addition to Lakewood Ranch Medical Center is expected in December 2025. We’re dedicated to offering easy access to advanced, quality and compassionate healthcare services close to home.
Julie Fanning | Chair of the Board
Benderson Development
David Otterness | Past Chair
Willis Smith Construction
Wayne Parrish | Incoming Chair
RITE Technology
Nick Feather | Deputy Chair
Capstan Financial Consulting Group
Dianne Kopczynski | Treasurer
Mauldin & Jenkins
Kevin Cooper | Secretary
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
Bryan Boudreaux | The Bank of Tampa
Zachary Buffington | Williams Parker Attorneys at Law
Kathy Collums | Gulfside Bank
Courtney DePol | Manatee County Government
Tieler Gittleman | Northern Trust Company
Annemarie Graff | Bank OZK
Beth Green | Raymond James & Associates
Dr. Ryan Hale | SCF, Manatee-Sarasota
Kent Jimison | Easterseals Happiness House
Zoe Kasper | Sunshine Movers
Dr. Brett Kemker | USF, Sarasota-Manatee
Sandy Shahinian Levins | Schroeder Manatee Ranch
Robert Lewis | Sarasota County Government
Ashlyn McCarty | Buffalo Lodging & Associates
Frank Morgan | Sarasota Memorial Health Care System
Keith Pandeloglou | LWR Community Activities
Toni Perren | Observer Media Group
Philip Reber | Lakewood Ranch Medical Center
Erin Watson | Game On Nation
Chris Williams | Aginto - A Digital Agency
Brittany Lamont
President & CEO | BrittanyLamont@lwrba.org
Janeth Gonzalez
Events & Programs Manager | JanethGonzalez@lwrba.org
Tim Estep
Membership Devlopment Manager | TimEstep@lwrba.org
Lisa Beckett
Executive Assitant | LisaBeckett@lwrba.org
Carolyn Rauhala
Membership Engagement Coordinator | CarolynRauhala@lwrba.org
Spring into Advocacy & Connection!
As spring blossoms, it brings new opportunities for growth — not only for our businesses but also for our community. At the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance, we’re embracing this season’s theme of renewal and growth by offering exciting ways to connect, engage and advocate for the success of our region.
In celebration of our 20th anniversary this year, we’re strengthening our commitment to our four guiding pillars: Advocacy, Connections, Resources and Community. Whether through dynamic networking events or strong business development programs, we are dedicated to nurturing meaningful relationships and providing the resources essential for lasting success.
Just recently, we took a powerful trip to Tallahassee, meeting with our state delegation to advocate for the legislative priorities that directly impact our business community. Advocacy is at the core of our mission, ensuring your voice is heard at every level of government.
Bad Ass Coffee, a Hawaii-based chain, opened in Lakewood Ranch, offering unique lattes, Hawaiian beans, and community engagement. The owners aim to create a local hub with delivery and curbside services.
Children First received a $900,000 grant from the Barancik Foundation to expand early childhood education, opening three new classrooms and supporting economic growth for children and families in Sarasota County.
FCCI Specialty Insurance Company began accepting excess and surplus lines business, offering innovative coverage solutions for hard-to-place commercial risks across multiple industries.
Goodwill Manasota announced new Board of Directors, led by Chair Betsy Benac. Their new director Jon Kaupla joined efforts to expand mission programs, employment support, and thrift store operations while strengthening community impact.
The Mental Health and Wellness Center at HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Hospital received the 2024 Human Experience Guardian of Excellence Award for outstanding inpatient behavioral health patient care and experience.
Shari Nastri’s new Lakewood Ranch Jazzercise studio offers a welcoming, judgment-free space for all fitness levels, combining dance cardio with strength training. Nastri’s passion for fitness drives the studio’s success and inclusivity.
Row House Lakewood Ranch reopened under new owners, Shane and Kristin Ward, with a grand celebration last November, to promote accessible, full-body fitness.
The Humane Society of Manatee County hosted the Paws in Motion Walk-a-Thon & Festival in March.The even featured a one-mile walk, contests, music, vendors, and adoptable dogs, with proceeds benefiting animals.
The Sarasota Players celebrated 95 years of community theatre with a Soiree in February at The Sarasota Garden Club, featuring a silent auction, local tastings, and a future theater preview.
The Venetian Golf Club community raised over $42,000 for The Twig Cares, through its Ladies Annual Charity Event, supporting foster children with essential resources and dignity.
Andrick & Associates
Big Robot AI
BluefitMD
C’est la Vie LWR
Chamber Concierge, LLC
Charity Golf International
Comfort Experts
Comfort Keepers
Cortez Heating & Air
Flagler Technologies
FlowPartner Consulting LLC
From The Heart Fundraising
Future-Proof LLC
Hello My Baby 3D
Her Health Gynecology
HiPo Talent Partners
Integrated Chiropractic
Kiddie Academy of Sarasota
Latham, The Pool Company
Myriad Healthcare
Ocean Prime Sarasota
Preferred Builders
Project 24 Climbing LLC
Ranch Realty
Reliable Payments
ROKIT Carts
ROOF MAXX SRQ
Saint Pauls Roofing LLC
Sarasota Orchestra
Sarasota Sports Medicine
Schenkel & Shultz, Inc.- Corporate Sponsor
Siteworx | Pools | Spas | Outdoor Living
SOUTHWIND ADVENTURES, INC
The Baldwin Group
Waterlefe Golf Club
Wenning Investments, LLC
Interested in becoming a member? Contact:
Gulfside Bank’s new location off Fruitville Road, east of I-75 is NOW
It’s hard to believe that just six short years ago, Gulfside Bank opened its doors to Sarasota’s business community for the first time. We’ve been growing to meet the financial needs of a vibrant, thriving community ever since.
Today, Gulfside can do anything the big banks can do, only faster, with local decision making and a true personal touch you won’t find anywhere else. And we’re just getting started.
Come grow with Gulfside.
Our Annual Luncheon was a fantastic kickoff to our 20th year, filled with high energy, fun walk-up songs, and celebration. Outgoing Board Chair David Otterness of Willis Smith Construction reflected on our progress, while we proudly welcomed Julie Fanning of Benderson Development as our 2025 Chair. Here’s to an exciting year ahead!
Presented By:
The Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance (LWRBA) Governmental Affairs Committee recently returned from a productive trip to Tallahassee, where members met with legislators ahead of the 2025 Florida Legislative Session.
This annual trip serves as a vital opportunity for LWRBA to advocate for issues impacting our region’s businesses and contribute to conversations that inform Florida’s economic future. With a focus on fostering a pro-business environment, the delegation worked to address key legislative priorities that will enhance workforce development, infrastructure, and overall economic resiliency statewide.
LWRBA President and CEO Brittany Lamont was joined by Governmental Affairs Committee Chair Nick Feather, members Casey Welch, Kaitlyn Perez, Susan Goldstein, Greg Green, and Lauire McCracken, along with Immediate Past Chair David Otterness, Chair Elect Wayne Parrish, and Manatee Community Foundation CEO Veronica Thames. The group presented the alliance’s 2025 Legislative Agenda, emphasizing priorities that support business expansion, workforce development, transportation infrastructure, and economic resilience.
LWRBA extends its appreciation to Senators Joe Gruters and Jim Boyd, as well as Representatives Fiona McFarland, Will Robinson, James Buchanan, and Bill Conerly for their time and engagement. Their willingness to listen and collaborate underscores the importance of strong relationships between policymakers and the business community.
As LWRBA celebrates 20 years of impact, its commitment to advancing policies that support a strong, resilient business community remains stronger than ever. The organization looks forward to continuing these important conversations and making a lasting difference in the years ahead.
T H E A L L I A N C E ’ S P R I O R I T I E S
Advocating for Business Growth and Workforce Development. A thriving business environment depends on a strong workforce and policies that encourage growth. LWRBA continues to champion initiatives that support industry certifications, apprenticeships, and rapid credentialing programs, ensuring Florida’s workforce is equipped for the jobs of today and tomorrow.
Additionally, securing funding for local institutions like State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota, and the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee remains a top priority, as these institutions play a crucial role in shaping the future workforce. Expanding support for technical colleges in Manatee and Sarasota counties is also essential to meeting industry demands and driving economic growth.
Investing in Transportation Infrastructure. Reliable infrastructure is another key to economic success, and LWRBA remains committed to advocating for essential transportation projects. Continued funding for the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) Florida Transportation Plan (FTP) is vital, along with securing investments in key regional projects like the Lorraine Road Multimodal Connector and improvements to the Lorraine Road Segment C Phase 1 project. These enhancements will improve mobility, increase capacity, and ensure the efficient movement of people, goods, and services throughout the region.
Eliminating the Business Rent Tax. One of the most significant legislative priorities is the full repeal of the Commercial Lease Tax, also known as the Business Rent Tax. Eliminating this tax will allow businesses to reinvest in expansion, innovation, and job creation, ultimately strengthening Florida’s economic competitiveness.
Strengthening Families Through Early Learning Investments. Supporting working families through accessible childcare and early learning programs is essential for a strong workforce. LWRBA continues to advocate for:
• Expanding the Child Care Tax Credits Program for businesses in Sarasota and Manatee counties.
• Increasing funding for full-day Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) programs. These initiatives provide critical support for families while helping businesses attract and retain top talent.
Building Resiliency for Florida’s Future. Given Florida’s susceptibility to hurricanes, disaster preparedness and recovery remain key concerns. LWRBA supports the renewal of funding for the My Safe Florida Home program, which helps homeowners and businesses strengthen their properties against future storms. Ensuring resources are available for
Do you have a position to fill? We want to help!
As a member of the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance, you have acess to a myriad of benefits to help grow your business. The LWRBA Job Board is one of them and an excellent way to grow your team, just follow these six easy steps
1. Head to www.LWRBA.org
2. In the top menu click, “Business Tools”
3. In the drop down menu hover over, “Job Board” and click, “Post a Position”
4. Log in to your member portal
5. At the top right click the green “Add” button
6. Fill in the information
Stand out amongst the crowd and increase visibility for your business by advertsing in our quarterly magazine! Check out these quick stats!
3,000 copies delivered to various businesses across the Lakewood Ranch Region!
Distributed at Alliance events.
Delivered digitally on social media and through our eblasts. That means thousands of eyes on your ad!
Questions?
Email timestep@LWRBA.org for more information on advertising in The Connection Magazine
Thursday, May 15th 4 to 6pm
Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club
Join us at the Next Gen Young Leaders Awards to recognize young professionals in the Lakewood Ranch region who strive toward the highest level of personal and professional accomplishment, who are making a difference and forging paths of leadership for others
Gain visibility for your company with a sponsorship at this event. Contact Janeth Gonzalez at janethgonzalez@lwrba.org
Wednesday, April 23 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club
In this session, SMR executive Laura Cole will present the development forecast for Lakewood Ranch, covering both residential and commercial growth, as well as the infrastructure projects, schools, and businesses shaping the future of the nation’s top-performing multi-gen community. The data shared will give way to a conversation about growth and development in our desirable region, focusing on SMR’s development approach with a focus on preserving the character and livability of the community for today’s residents and businesses, as well as for future generations.
Lisa Beckett Executive Assistant
The Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance is pleased to announce it has hired Lisa Beckett as the Executive Assistant.
Beckett will support the leadership team by ensuring efficient administrative operations playing a key role in communication, event planning, and fostering positive relationships with members and stakeholders.
With over 20 years of experience in office administration and operations, Beckett excels in organization and planning, consistently seeking opportunities to solve problems and enhance efficiency.
Originally from Huntington, WV, Beckett relocated to Florida and holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Marshall University. Outside of work, she enjoys painting, traveling, and spending quality time with her family. Welcome, Lisa!
The Alliance started the new year with a bang! We strengthened connections at our monthly luncheons and networking socials while diving into an exciting season of events. Take a look at the highlights below, and be sure to stay tuned for what’s coming next!
> Find us on Facebook and Instagram for more photos from all of our events.
Congratulations to the following businesses on their recent ribbon cuttings!
Resting Rainbow | 2198 Princeton St
Rokit Carts | 2123 University Pkwy Suite 102
New, renovated or relocated business? Let us celebrate with you! For more info visit: www.LWRBA.org
Breakfast with Ranchers
Tuesday, April 15th | 8:00 - 9:00 am
YLA Social
Thursday, April 17th | 6:00 - 8:00 pm
Monthly Luncheon
Wednesday, April 23rd | 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Lunch with Ranchers
Tuesday, April 29th | 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Networking Social
Wednesday, May 7th | 5:00 - 7:00 pm
YLA Next Gen Awards
Thursday, May 15th | 4:00 - 6:00 pm
Lunch with Ranchers
Tuesday, May 20th | 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Monthly Luncheon
Wednesday, May 28th | 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Networking Social
Wednesday, June 4th | 5:00 - 7:00 pm
Lunch with Ranchers
Thursday, June 12th | 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
YLA Lunch Program
Wednesday, June 18th | 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Monthly Luncheon
Wednesday, June 25th | 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Save the date for our biggest events of the year
Block Party Friday, April 11
8th Annual Alliance Gives Back October 2 through October 4
36th Annual Hob Nob Wednesday, October 29
Sandies Members Choice Awards Friday, November 14
Intentional design has guided every step of the community’s evolution, ensuring spaces that foster both business and everyday life while preserving more than 40% open space.
Transportation networks, parks and trails, schools, workplaces, health centers and gathering spaces have helped create a place where people not only live but engage and contribute.
For 20 years, the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance has played a vital role in fostering connection, collaboration, and economic opportunity in our community. Schroeder-Manatee Ranch (SMR), the developer of Lakewood Ranch, has had the privilege of watching businesses, entrepreneurs, and residents shape this place into something special—built not just on a plan, but on shared purpose and vision.
A mix of housing options has made it possible for people at different life stages and affordability levels to find a home that suits them.
At buildout, SMR will have financed and built a total of $1.2 billion in master infrastructure and added more than $10 billion of taxable income in Manatee and Sarasota Counties making a positive impact on the local economy.
A strong foundation has been key to Lakewood Ranch’s growth. Over the years, our approach has centered on three guiding principles: thoughtful planning, essential infrastructure, and diverse neighborhoods—each contributing to a balanced, sustainable, and connected way of life.
The Alliance has been instrumental in strengthening these foundations—supporting businesses, advocating for smart growth, and helping forge the connections that make a community more than just a collection of buildings.
As we mark this milestone, we celebrate not just the past 20 years, but the relationships, opportunities, and shared successes that will continue to shape the future. Congratulations to the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance on two decades of impact—we look forward to what’s ahead.
Community Foundation of Sarasota County
Fawley Bryant Architecture
Gold Coast Eagle Distributing
Gulf Coast Community Foundation
Gulfside Bank
HCA Florida Healthcare
Icard, Merrill Attorneys & Counselors
Jessica Guadagno Photography
Baacke Insurance & Financial Service
Buffalo Lodging
Carr, Riggs & Ingram
Coastal Orthopedics
Compass Hotel by Margaritaville
Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County
Fifth Third Bank
FirstService Residential
Goodwill Manasota
JP Morgan Chase
ME&S General Contractors
Plunkett Raysich Architects
Robert Toale & Sons Celebration of Life Center at LWR
Schenkel & Shultz, Inc
SouthState Bank
Tandem Construction
The Goal Guide
The Mall at UTC
University of South Florida
Black Real Estate
Publix Super Markets
Rapid Response Team
SailorGirl Medical Staffing
Sarasota County Government
Shepherd Insurance
Sprit Movers
State College of Florida
Stoneforge Consulting Group
Synovus
Tropex
Wagner Realty