The Power of Connection at Work

Connection fall 2023

the

The Power of Connection at Work A Record Breaking Alliance Gives Back PG 10

LWRBA UPDATE

A word from our Chair of the Board and President / CEO PG 4

ON THE CALENDAR Upcoming Events PG 6

CELEBRATING

Leadership Academy Graduates PG 8 Local Businesses PG 9 New Members PG 9

ADVOCATING FOR LOCAL BUSINESSES Legislative Agenda PG 14

8430 Enterprise Circle, Suite 140 Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 info@lwrba.org | 941-757-1664 | www.lwrba.org

LET’S DO WELL

TOGETHER At Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, our network of care provides highquality, individualized care for you and your family – close to where you live, work and play.

Our network includes: • Lakewood Ranch Medical Center – Offering services ranging from cardiovascular care and orthopedics to women’s services/obstetrics and stroke.

For more information, go to lakewoodranchmedicalcenter.com For a physician referral, call 800-454-8215.

• ER at Fruitville* – A full-service, freestanding emergency department with board-certified physicians who provide emergency care. Full-service laboratory, X-ray and CT are available onsite.

• Lakewood Ranch Medical Group – From primary care to specialty cardiac, OB/GYN and general surgery, our affiliated physicians and allied health professionals deliver quality healthcare services to all age groups.

8330 Lakewood Ranch Boulevard Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202

*This emergency department is part of Lakewood Ranch Medical Center. This is not an urgent care center. Its services and care are billed at hospital emergency department rates. 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. 231419553-1421015 12/22

2

the connection // fall 2023

IN THIS ISSUE

04//A Note from Our Chair An update from Erik Hanson, 2023 Chair

04//LWRBA Update

A word from President/CEO, Brittany Lamont

06//On the Calendar Upcoming Alliance Events

08//Leadership Academy

Meet our Leadership Academy Graduates

09//Ribbon Cuttings

Congratulations to these businesses!

09//Welcome New Members The newest additions to the Alliance

10//Alliance Gives Back Recap The power of connection at work

12//Say Cheese!

A look at all the fun we had this summer

14//Advocating on Your Behalf 2024 Legislative Agenda

14//Non-Profit Spotlight Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

16//Members in the News

Take a look at what our members are up to

18//Thank You

Thank you to our annual investors

LWRBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Erik Hanson//Chair of the Board Shutts & Bowen, LLP Allison Imre//Past Chair Grapevine Communications David Otterness//Incomign Chair Willis Smith Construction Dianne Kopczynski//Treasurer Mauldin & Jenkins Julie Fanning//Secretary Benderson Development Annemarie Graff//Bank OZK Amanda Parrish//Fawley Bryant Architecture Ashlyn McCarty//Buffalo Lodging & Associates Charlie Murphy//The Bank of Tampa Che Barnett//Manatee County Government Darrin Rohr//HH Staffing David Fink//Family Office Services Erin Watson//Game On Nation Frank Morgan//Sarasota Memorial Health Care System Javar Baity/Aginto - A Digital Agency John Holz//Plunkett Raysich Architects, LLP Keith Pandeloglou//LWR Community Activities Kevin Cooper//Mote Marine Laboratory Kent Jimison//Easterseals Happiness House Lisa Barnott//Schroeder-Manatee Ranch Lou Marinaccio//Gallagher Affinity Nick Feather//Capstan Financial Consulting Group Rex Jensen//Schroeder-Manatee Ranch Robert Lewis//Sarasota County Government Ron Beck//Gulfside Bank Tieler Gittleman//Northern Trust Company Toni Perren//Observer Media Group Zachary Buffington//Williams Parker Attorneys at Law

Find Us On... www.facebook.com/ LakewoodRanchBusinessAlliance www.instagram.com/thelwrba Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance

Staff Brittany Lamont//President/CEO BrittanyLamont@lwrba.org Janeth Gonzalez//Events & Programs Manager JanethGonzalez@lwrba.org Blake Frey//Membership Deveopment Representative BlakeFrey@lwrba.org Kristie Calandro//Communications Coordinator KristieCalandro@lwrba.org Lindsay Hartman//Member Services Coordinator LindsayHartman@lwrba.org

theconnection// fall 2023

3

The Alliance Legacy It’s been an exciting year as your Chair of the Board, and I can’t believe the honeymoon is almost over. We moved into the house, took stock of the good bones, and started planning how to “re-arrange the furniture”.

The biggest impact I wanted to Erik Hanson Chair of the Board leave in my time as Chair was to create a strategic plan for the Alliance to continue our growth, impact, and engagement in the years to come. Throughout the past six months, the Board of Directors has developed a strategic plan consisting of a new mission, vision, strategies and goals, and we will be rolling this out at the Annual Luncheon next February. This year, we continued to focus on growing membership and programming, and expanding our influence in public policy. Our staff and committees continue to provide premier opportunities for our members to connect, educate and strengthen our region. I look forward to seeing what’s in store for the Alliance, and how we can continue the Alliance’s legacy.

Erik Hanson 2023 Chair of the Board Make the Most of Your Membership Are you looking for ways to engage in your membership and make the most out of your investment with the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance? We are here to help!

The LWRBA team is committed to assisting members in connecting with potential clients, gaining visibility for their companies, giving back to our community and advocating for the issues that affect business in the region.

Brittany Lamont President / CEO

If you are looking for more ways to utilize your membership, please reach out to us and set up a meeting. We can take a look at your profile, find a committee for you to get involved in and suggest some events that we think might be a good fit for your business. If there is a policy at the local or state level that is prohibiting your business from thriving and growing in this region, we want to hear from you.

We are here to help and appreciate your membership!

Brittany Lamont LWRBA President/CEO 4

the connection // fall 2023

Elevate Your Lunch Break Power up your productivity at 20+ irresistible food & beverage establishments located at Waterside Place & Main Street at Lakewood Ranch. It’s a culinary tour for every craving, including Italian, Korean, Mexican, French and American.

feed your cravings at:

WATERSIDEPLACE.COM

LWRMAINSTREET.COM

1561 LAKEFRONT DRIVE, LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL 34240

8100 LAKEWOOD MAIN STREET, LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL 34240

the connection // fall 2023

5

ON THE CALENDAR Networking Social

34th Annual Hob Nob

Wednesday, November 1 | 5:00 - 7:00 PM

Wednesday, December 6 | 5:30 - 8:00 PM

Clive Daniel Home

Premier Sports Campus

Breakfast with Ranchers

Lunch with Ranchers

Tuesday, November 7 | 8:00 - 9:30 AM

Tuesday, December 12 | 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Mission BBQ

TBD

LWRBA Road Show: Lakewood Ranch Growing South

Luncheon

Friday, November 3 | 1:00-5:00 PM

Wednesday, December 13 | 11:30AM - 1:00 PM

The 2023 Sandies Awards

The Ballroom at Grove

Friday, November 17 | 11:30 AM - 1:15 PM The Ballroom at Grove

SIGNATURE EVENTS

PRESENTED BY:

WHAT?

The Sandies recognize members for their remarkable talents, character, and commitment to the Alliance and community. These awards honor individuals who strive toward the highest level of personal and professional accomplishment, who are making a difference and forging paths of leadership for others to follow.

WHERE?

The Ballroom at Grove 10670 Boardwalk Loop

WHEN? Friday, November 17th from

11:30AM - 1:1PM

HOW? Purchase your tickets at LWRBA.org/ Sandies. Tickets are $65 per person. Gold and silver tables are also available.

6

the connection // fall 2023

PRESENTED BY:

WHAT?

Hob Nob is the premier networking event bringing together the business community from the Sarasota, Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch region. Featuring grill teams of local businesses and restaurants, you’ll enjoy an evening of food, drinks and fun!

WHERE?

Premier Sports Campus 5895 Post Blvd

WHEN? Wednesday, December 6th from

5:30 - 8:00PM

HOW? Showcase your business by

participating as a grill team! Your organization will partner with a restaurant member to serve food and network with attendees. You can also purchase individual tickets on our website!

Member FDIC

Bryan Boudreaux

Manatee Market Director

Amy Stumbo

Service Assistant Manager, Lakewood Ranch

What is a Relationship?

941.248.1830 thebankoftampa.com

Staffed with bankers who have deep roots in the Sarasota and Manatee market, our bank’s focus for nearly 40 years has been to serve owner-managed businesses, professional firms and families that want a strong, local connection with their bank and banker.

Come grow with us.

NOW OPEN | 10650 BOARDWALK LOOP I LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL 34202

OVER 50 YEARS OF BUILDING LANDMARKS.

SERVING SOUTHWEST FLORIDA SINCE 1972.

• Construction Management • Design Build • General Contracting

Lakewood Ranch Library

941.366.3116 | WillisSmith.com | CGC-034192

the connection // fall 2023

7

LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

Congratulations to the Class of 2024!

Cristyrae Ansley, Nathan Benderson Park Conservancy | Javar Baity, Aginto A Digital Agency | Torri Brown, Clive Daniel Home | Joan Burnell, Grapevine Communications | Kristie Calandro, Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance Dalton Colson, The Bank of Tampa | Kevin Damphouse, Big Earth Landscape Supply | Melissa Ferlazzo, Meals on Wheels PLUS | Caden Foos, Shepherd Insurance | Callie Friedman, Onplace | Jason Greenspan, Nathan Benderson Park Conservancy | Nicole Hackel, Lakewood Ranch Communities Samantha Harris, Humane Society of Manatee County | Mason Johnson, Nathan Benderson Park Conservancy | Zoe Kasper, Bekins Moving Solutions Brian MacWilliams, Big Earth Landscape Supply | Poonam Maini, Tandoor Fine Indian Cuisine | Brooke Niecestro, Mercedes Scientific | Dan Nolan, Big Earth Landscape Supply | Samuel Pierre, Mobility Plus | Marshall Robinson, Manatee County Government | Tahra Romero, Manatee County Government | Rick Scherzer, Willis Smith Construction | Megahan Simpson, Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue | James Yarnell, Manatee County Government

Financial security isn’t just about money. It’s a safety net for the ones you love.

You’d do anything to keep your family safe.

Let’s talk about making sure they’re financially secure.

Jacqueline Johns, MBA Agent, New York Life Insurance Company Sarasota-Bradenton, FL 34212 941-233-4502 jmjohns@ft.newyorklife.com

SMRU1848301 (Exp.01/22/2024). ©2021 New York Life Insurance Company, 51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010. All rights reserved.

NEW YORK LIFE and the NEW YORK LIFE Box Logo are trademarks of New York Life Insurance Company.

Insure. Prepare. Retire.

Open one door for all your real estate needs.

Experience the Michael Saunders & Company difference with agents dedicated to your home buying and selling success. Proud to be serving Lakewood Ranch and Manatee County.

Mortgage | Title | Insurance | Developer Services | Commercial | Relocation

Nowhere but here. michaelsaunders.com | 941.907.9595

8

the connection // fall 2023

RIBBON CUTTINGS CELEBRATING LOCAL BUSINESSES

Azul Cosmetic Surgery and Med Spa

Baby Fox Academy

Capstan Financial Consulting Group

The Newlove Nurtury

Pixie Health Insurance, NAMI, & Embrace Your Fitness

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS!

Please help us in welcoming the newest additions to our Alliance family of businesses!

Amy Lou Interiors Azul Cosmetic Surgery and Medical Spa Blue Stream Fiber Brew City Marketing Bricks 4 Kidz Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton, Sarasota, Parrish CBIZ Insurance Services, Inc. Crows Nest Home Inspections Crystal Clean Green Cleaning DecoCrete Services DryPro Embrace Your Fitness, LLC Erickson Senior Living FirstService Residential NEW Associate Level Member Glory Days Grill Heroes Welcome Home Homewatch CareGivers House Match Jeremiah’s Italian Ice Joshua O’Bryan Benefits Group LLC L&D West Coast Cleaners Longevity Wellness Clinic Lukuma Label Creative Agency Make-A-Wish Southern Florida, Suncoast Regional Office Miller’s Ale House – Bradenton Mr. Handyman Serving Sarasota & Bradenton NAMI Sarasota and Manatee Counties PCS Florida Poppo’s Taqueria Pure Home 365 Ranch Realty Risen Savior Academy LWR, Inc. Rittenhouse Book Distributors LLC Sarasota Sports Medicine NEW Network Level Member Seacoast Bank Sellstate Vision Realty LWR Sherwin-Williams Paint Store Sport Clips Haircuts Of LWR SRQ Wealth Storii Coffee Sunlight Digital TD Bank NEW Network Level Member The Cleaning Pros of America, Inc. The Newlove Nurtury The Salt Caves and Spa at Lakewood Ranch The Sidell Method Tipsy’s Sweet Treats Women’s Care

For a complete member list, visit www.lwrba.org/MemberDirectory.

Want to become a member? Contact Blake Frey at BlakeFrey@LWRBA.org the connection // fall 2023

9

The Power of Connection at Work In its 6th year, Alliance Gives Back has bridged

the gap between non-profits and for profit businesses by providing volunteer opportunities.

Alliance members donated their time with friends, family and colleagues to give back to more than 30 non-profits the first weekend in October.

From gardening, to making cards, preparing for galas, organizing food and clothes for those in need, making care packages, creating volunteer appreciation items and everything in between!

Thank you to all of the sponsors, participaing non-profits, and our record breaking number of volunteers for making it a huge success!

General Contractors, Inc.

35 projects 10

120 companies

the connection // fall 2023

350+ volunteers

950 hours donated

600 $27K care packages Economic 2,400 Impact lbs of food

The Mission of HOPE Family Services is to provide safety, strength and well-being for those affected by domestic violence in Manatee County.

More than Just a Shelter Programs Offered Emergency Safe Shelter Children’s Program Injunction for Protection Attorneys Economic Justice Program Primary Prevention Program Advocacy Supportive Counseling Social Change HOPE Chest Thrift Store

Always available 24/7/365: HelpLine: (941) 755-6805

TextLine: text "SURVIVOR" to 69922 ChatLine: www.hopefamilyservice.org Donations & general information: (941) 747-8499

ALL SERVICES ARE FREE AND CONFIDENTIAL

Loving Hands Thrift Store Proudly Supporting Loving Hands Ministries to continue the mission to "Save Our Sons"

Thrift Store 719 Manatee Avenue East Bradenton, FL 34208

A happy place to call home At Bank of America, we are committed to improving financial lives.

We focus on issues that fundamentally connect to economic mobility — like workforce training, affordable housing and addressing basic needs. By partnering with organizations like Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance that drive local solutions, we can help people build better lives and create strong, sustainable local communities.

Visit us at bankofamerica.com/about.

Furniture Store 701 Manatee Avenue East Bradenton, FL 34208 Donations Accepted Daily! Pickup available

Hours: Monday - Friday : 10:00am - 4:00pm Saturday: 10:00am - 2:00pm Phone: 941.757.3434

Volunteers needed!

Fb.com/LovingHandsThriftStore the connection // fall 2023

11

SAY CHEESE!

This summer our events brought the heat! We had the pleasure of hosting hundreds of you at our first ever Tradeshow Tailgate. Many of you joined us at our monthly luncheons, regarding health care, generations in the workplace and other hot topics in our region. We enjoyed making connections at some fun networking socials and our popular Lunch with Ranchers. It doesn’t stop there, it may be getting cooler, but we continue to turn up the heat with a slew of great events coming up! Check out these photos, taken by Jessica Guadagno Photogrpahy, of the best summer ever. > Find us on Facebook and Instagram for more photos from all of our events!

12

the connection // fall 2023

Take me home for 3, 6, or 12 months. Love me forever.

Become a puppy raiser with Southeastern Guide Dogs and open a world of magic to those with vision loss, veterans with disabilities, and children who need a best friend.

Did you know? Every guide dog starts as a puppy, and every puppy needs someone like you.

Your mission as a puppy raiser is simple. Take home a cuddly bundle of joy and bring back a happy, socialized, well-mannered dog. That’s the magic of making a difference. ✴ Choose your own adventure: The joys of puppy raising are endless, but the time commitment doesn’t have to be. Raise a puppy on your own or choose your dream team. You can share the journey with family, friends, colleagues, and more. ✴ Take a paws: Have a getaway planned? Take the vacation or well-deserved break. Our puppy sitters jump in and take the leash. ✴ Just add love (+ food and water): We’ll take care of the rest. Puppy raisers receive a kit stocked with all the necessities to raise a happy, healthy pup. Plus, we cover all veterinary care and medical expenses.

Unleash the fun! We’ll support your puppy-raising adventure from start to finish—no matter where you live in the United States.

Ask about puppy raiser clubs in your area for optional outings to connect, laugh, share tips, and swap stories with fellow raisers.

Be a part of the magic. Raise a puppy.

GuideDogs.org/pup

the connection // fall 2023 13

GRAND BUFFET IN THE BALLROOM & FAMILY FEAST TO-GO OPTIONS AVAILABLE. VISIT GROVELWR.COM TO BOOK! 10670 BOARDWALK LOOP LAKEWOOD RANCH | 941.893.4321

NON-PROFIT ADVOCATING FOR SPOTLIGHT LOCAL BUSINESSES Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium has a nearly 70-

The Government Affairs Committee (GAC) has produced the 2024 Legislative Agenda for the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance. The key issues noted below are what the LWRBA will be advocating for at the Manatee and Sarasota Delegation meetings as well as their trip to Tallahasee November 6-8.

1. The full repeal of the Commercial Lease Tax. 2. Funding to support State College of Florida and University of South Florida (STEM Building)

3. Access to affordable child and early learning care for families

4. Increased funding for transportation projects in and around Lakewood Ranch

5. Continued work on Affordable Housing and the

insurance market

6. Legislation to help businesses recover from natural disasters

14

the connection // fall 2023

year legacy as an independent, nonprofit, 501(c)3 global marine research and science education institution. Mote began in 1955 and flourished on the foundational pillars of “Passion, Partnership and Philanthropy” - the passion of a single researcher, Dr. Eugenie Clark, her partnership with the community and philanthropic support, first of the Vanderbilt family, later with the significant support and guidance of the William R. Mote family, and today through donations by thousands of individuals who believe in the mission of Mote.

Today, Mote has grown into eight campuses stretching from Tampa Bay to Key West, with a ninth new campus, the Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA), currently under construction. Mote has more than 25 diverse world-class research programs studying oceans locally and internationally, with an emphasis on positively impacting conservation and sustainable use of marine resources. The current Mote Aquarium in Sarasota showcases Mote’s marine science research and is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., 365 days a year. Learn more at mote.org.

Your Gateway to the World We have 50+ nonstop destinations.

With over 50 nonstop destinations and connections to the world, the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport is proud to provide a service that enhances the economic well-being of the Lakewood Ranch community. Discover new places or book your favorite destination and let the fun takeoff!

flysrq.com

the connection // fall 2023 15

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS PROUD PRINTER OF THE

MAGAZINE

Lakewood Ranch Farmers Market is Number 1 Lakewood Ranch’s Farmers Market was named Florida’s top market in the 15th America’s Farmers Market Celebration, chosen by the public. The market, now in its sixth season, boasts 100+ vendors every Sunday.

SMART Names New Executive Director Mark Hiser is the new executive director at Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy, focusing on expanding programs, increasing the number of horses, and community engagement.

Business Communications Mail Marketing

Manatee Technical College Expands MTC will construct a 35,000 sq ft addition to its main campus, dedicated to adult education, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), and GED programs. This expansion aims to provide dedicated space for these programs, with flexible scheduling and community use.

Commercial Printing Promotional Products Publishing

Gold Coast Eagle Distributing celebrates Anheuser-Busch as the official beer partner of World Champions Cup Anheuser-Busch partners with the World Champions Cup, exciting Gold Coast Eagle Distributing. The event, features Team USA, Europe, and International, with economic benefits anticipated. Owner John Saputo is passionate about community involvement.

Bank of America awards $300,000 to MOTE SEA Bank of America has donated $300,000 to support the Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA) at Nathan Benderson Park to aid in the development of a marine research center and environmental education facility.

NEW LOCATION Late December 1839 61 st Street Sarasota, FL 34243 941-366-0755

CAI – Community Association Institute Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce

16

Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance

Xerox Premier Partner

SAGE PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS

the connection // fall 2023

Manatee Chamber of Commerce The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce

Our Region’s Lionesses Prominent female leaders in our community including, Brittany Lamont, CEO of Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance, Jacki DeZelski, CEO of Manatee Chamber of Commerce, Sharon Hillstrom, CEO of Bradenton Area Economic Development Corporation, Heather Kasten, CEO of Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, Erin Duggan, CEO of Visit Sarasota County, Erin Silk, CEO of Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County met with SRQ Magazine for a round table discussion on women in leadership. They emphasized the importance of resilience, adaptability, and mutual support in their roles, serving as both mentors and advocates for future leaders in the community. environmental education facility.

Our goal has always been to help meet yours. Today, we’re here for you in more ways than ever. With more locations, more services, and more expertise to help you wherever life takes you.

This is banking at its best.

This is Banking Forward.

941.306.0100 SouthStateBank.com Member FDIC

Chris Perkins

Regional President

Renee Brady

Premier Private Banker

Carla Cummings Consumer Bank Market Manger

the connection // fall 2023

17

Do You Know the

If you are considering making a move, Christy May’s real estate sales track record and diverse business experience allows you to put your trust in the agent that’s committed to you, and what YOU want.

CURRENT MARKET VALUE

of Your Property?

Residential Community Commercial

Learn More 941 462 4060

ChristyMayRE.com MayGroupRE.com

Christy May Broker Associate REALTOR® •

CID • CIM • IRES • GRI + Global Luxury Call or Text 781 258 6022 christy.may@floridamoves.com Coldwell Banker Flagship office

100 N Tamiami Tr., Sarasota, FL 34236

Owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group, LLC.

396757-1

THE MAY GROUP

Make Your Best Move... Call Christy Today!

941-462-4060 Team Lead of the May Group MayGroupRE.com We can help you!

THANK YOU LWRBA ANNUAL SPONSORS PRESIDENTIAL

communications

EXECUTIVE

CORPORATE

ASSOCIATE

Community Foundation of Sarasota County, Fawley Bryant Architecture, Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, Gold Coast Eagle Distributing, HCA Florida Healthcare, Hometown News USA, Jessica Guadagno Photography, Manatee Community Foundation, McIntyre Elwell & Strammer General Contractors, Northern Trust Company, Tandem Construction, The Pickleball Club

Alltrust Insurance, Bank OZK, Berlin Patten & Ebling, Buffalo Lodging, Carr, Riggs & Ingram, Coastal Orthopedics, Conditioned Air, Fifth Third Bank, Financial Access Federal Credit Union, First Citizens Bank, FirstService Residential, Florida Blue, Gulfside Bank, Ian Black Real Estate, Lodgco Hospitality, Manatee Technical College, Plunkett Raysich Architects, PNC Bank, PostNet of Lakewood Ranch, Publix Super Markets, Sarasota County Government, Shepherd Insurance, State College of Florida, The Exercise Coach Lakewood Ranch, Total Air Solutions, Tropex, UTC Venture Group, Wagner Realty

18

the connection // fall 2023

And Why We Are the Official Urgent Care of

Offering attractive healthcare solutions for small business owners...

Contracts with Aetna, Cigna and Medicare Preferred Private Pay Plan Customized Workman’s Comp ER Level Care without high costs & wait times

SCAN TO CONTACT

A Unique Advanced Urgent Care Hybrid Model

WWW.THECENTERFORURGENTCARE.COM the connection // fall 2023 19