Connection Magazine - Spring 2025

spring 2025

Connection the

ENSURING YOUR VOICE IS HEARD LWRBA UPDATE

The Alliance’s Trip to Tallahassee PG 10

ON THE CALENDAR Upcoming Events PG 15

CELEBRATING

5391 Lakewood Ranch Blvd N, Suite 103 Sarasota, FL 34240 info@lwrba.org | 941-757-1664 | www.lwrba.org

New Members PG 8 20th Anniversary Luncheon PG 9 Ribbon Cuttings PG 13

BUILDING

EXCITEMENT HOSPITAL EXPANSION IS UNDERWAY What to Expect • 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 ˧˛˘ Ѓ˥˦˧ ˣ˛˔˦˘ ˢ˙ ˧˛˘ Ѓ˩˘ʠ˦˧ˢ˥ˬʟ ʤʪʣʟʣʣʣ 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.

Watch us grow at lwrmc.com/expansion

8330 Lakewood Ranch Boulevard Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202

Physicians are on the medical staff of Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Lakewood Ranch Medical Center. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website. 242844195-2901452 2/25

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LWRBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

LWRBA STAFF

Julie Fanning | Chair of the Board

Brittany Lamont

Benderson Development

President & CEO | BrittanyLamont@lwrba.org

David Otterness | Past Chair

Janeth Gonzalez

Willis Smith Construction

Events & Programs Manager | JanethGonzalez@lwrba.org

Wayne Parrish | Incoming Chair

Tim Estep

RITE Technology

Membership Devlopment Manager | TimEstep@lwrba.org

Nick Feather | Deputy Chair

Lisa Beckett

Capstan Financial Consulting Group

Executive Assitant | LisaBeckett@lwrba.org

Dianne Kopczynski | Treasurer

Carolyn Rauhala

Mauldin & Jenkins

Membership Engagement Coordinator | CarolynRauhala@lwrba.org

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

Spring into Advocacy & Connection!

Julie Fanning Chair of the Board

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.

the connection // spring 2025

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the connection // spring 2025

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Experience a taste of Amish Country right here in Sarasota.

Just minutes from the area’s top beaches and a short walk from 3LQHFUDIW RXU KLGGHQ JHP RIIHUV UHQRZQHG ÁDYRUV GHOLJKWIXO shopping, and unique accommodations. Enjoy the peace, comfort, DQG ZKROHVRPH YDOXHV RI KRPH ZKLOH VDYRULQJ GHOLFLRXV WUHDWV IURP our bakery. It’s truly the best of both worlds!

3713 Bahia Vista Street, Sarasota, FL 34232 | 941-955-8007 DerDutchmanSarasota.com

FROM THE PREHISTORIC TO THE PRESENT, THERE’S SOMETHING HERE FOR EVERYONE!

t! i s i v r u o Plan y DISCOVER THE BISHOP! 201 10 th Street West • Bradenton, FL 34205 941-746-4131 • BishopScience.org

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MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS!

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.

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

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.

Interested in becoming a member? Contact: TimEstep@LWRBA.org

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. the connection // spring 2025

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Gulfside Bank’s new location off Fruitville Road, east of I-75 is NOW OPEN! 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.

Live here. Bank here.

Downtown 333 N. Orange Avenue | Sarasota, FL 34236 | (941) 303-4200 Fruitville East 2870 Height St. | Sarasota, FL 34240 | (941) 313-8123 gulfsidebank.com 8 the connection // spring 2025

20TH ANNIVERSARY ANNUAL LUNCHEON

Presented By:

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!

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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.

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THE ALLIANCE’S PRIORITIES

Ensuring the Business Community’s Voice is Heard in Tallahassee

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

LWRBA JOB BOARD ARE YOU HIRING? LWRDo 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

ADVERTISE IN THE CONNECTION MAGAZINE 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

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JOIN US!

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

PRESENTING SPONSOR

AWARD SPONSORS

Gain visibility for your company with a sponsorship at this event. Contact Janeth Gonzalez at janethgonzalez@lwrba.org

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YLA Next Gen Connections Ad.indd 1

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SHAPING THE FUTURE

A LOOK AHEAD AT LAKEWOOD RANCH’S DEVELOPMENT 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.

SAY CHEESE

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.

LWRBA UPDATE

MEET LISA BECKETT 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!

RIBBON CUTTINGS CELEBRATING NEW BUSINESSES

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 the connection // spring 2025 13

scovery Point Tw i D o elv int eO g n ak i r p s S

ENROLL ENROLL

TODAY T ODAY

It’s time to spring into Discovery Point Twelve Oaks! Providing educational child care for children 6 weeks to 12 years. Join us this year for Spring Break, Summer Camp, and much more:

Parent/Teacher Conferences | Early Learning Assessments | PROCARE, Parent Engagement App|Children and Family F mily Events Fa Eve v nts | Connections Curriculum | Contactless, s Secure Check-In/Out | Amazing Athletes Kitchen Commercial Ki K tchen

Spring p g Break Camp: p 3/17 - 3/21 Summer Camp: 6/2 - 8/8

941.200.4250 14

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7218 55th Ave 7218 7 v East, t Bradenton, B n FL F 34203

ON THE CALENDAR Breakfast with Ranchers Tuesday, April 15th | 8:00 - 9:00 am

N e e d CChildcare?

Need hildcare?

We ccan We caan hhelp heeellp

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

The Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County, known as the ELC, is a nonprofit that connects you, your employees, and all area families with high-quality childcare.

Let us take the stress out of your search!

Financial assistance

Networking Social Wednesday, June 4th | 5:00 - 7:00 pm Lunch with Ranchers Thursday, June 12th | 11:30 am - 1:00 pm

free Preschool for 4-year-olds

YLA Lunch Program Wednesday, June 18th | 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Monthly Luncheon Wednesday, June 25th | 11:30 am - 1:00 pm

2025 ANNUAL SIGNATURE EVENTS Save the date for our biggest events of the year

Find High-Quality Care

Customized Childcare listings

Block Party Friday, April 11 8th Annual Alliance Gives Back October 2 through October 4 36th Annual Hob Nob Wednesday, October 29

elcsarasota.org elcsarasota.org Sponsored by the Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County, the State of Florida and the Florida Department of Education’s Division of Early Learning

Sandies Members Choice Awards Friday, November 14

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vision & planning 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.

COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE 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.

SMR Celebrates 20 Years of the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance 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.

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BUILDING A THRIVING COMMUNITY: THE LAKEWOOD RANCH MODEL

LIVING, WORKING, THRIVING 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.

RESIDENTIAL SEGMENTATION 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.

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.

SM R

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THANK YOU SPONSORS PRESIDENTIAL communications

N e e d CChildcare?

Need hildcare?

We ccan We caan hhelp heeellp

The Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County, known as the ELC, is a nonprofit that connects you, your employees, and all area families with high-quality childcare.

Let us take the stress out of your search!

EXECUTIVE

SERBIN

free Preschool for 4-year-olds

CORPORATE Community Foundation of Sarasota County

ME&S General Contractors

Gold Coast Eagle Distributing

Plunkett Raysich Architects Robert Toale & Sons Celebration of Life Center at LWR

Gulf Coast Community Foundation

Schenkel & Shultz, Inc SouthState Bank

Gulfside Bank

Tandem Construction

HCA Florida Healthcare

The Goal Guide

Icard, Merrill Attorneys & Counselors

The Mall at UTC

Fawley Bryant Architecture

Jessica Guadagno Photography

Customized Childcare listings

Baacke Insurance & Financial Service

Ian Black Real Estate

Buffalo Lodging

Rapid Response Team

Carr, Riggs & Ingram

SailorGirl Medical Staffing

Coastal Orthopedics

Sarasota County Government

Compass Hotel by Margaritaville

Shepherd Insurance

Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County

Sprit Movers

FirstService Residential Goodwill Manasota JP Morgan Chase

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Find High-Quality Care

University of South Florida

ASSOCIATE

Fifth Third Bank

Financial assistance

Publix Super Markets

State College of Florida

elcsarasota.org elcsarasota.org

Stoneforge Consulting Group Synovus Sponsored by the Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County, the State of Florida and the Florida Department of Education’s Division of Early Learning

Tropex Wagner Realty

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