July 2022 Newsletter

This

Advanced Services

• Breast Health Center

• Cardiac Electrophysiology

• Electroencephalography (EEG)

• Emergency Services

- ER at Fruitville

New Full-Service Freestanding Emergency Department

• Gastroenterology

• Heart Care (Invasive and Noninvasive)

• Laboratory Services

• Orthopaedic Spine and Joint Center

• Physical Therapy

• Radiology and Interventional

• Respiratory

• Sleep Center

• Stroke and Cerebrovascular Center

• Surgical Services - Breast - Podiatry - Ear, Nose, Throat - Prostate - General - Robotic - Gynecologic - Spine - Neuro - Urologic

- Orthopaedic - Vascular - Plastic

• Women’s Center

Neonatologist Available 24/7

Birth Designer Is First in Our Community!

• Wound Care

Hospital

with

Award-Winning Quality Care

a “Best Maternity

the

Bryan

Vice

Director

Blaine Morrison Vice President,

Senior Manager

Suncoast Housing NOW Addressing the SarasotaManatee Workforce Housing Issue.

For years, there has been talk. Meetings have been held. Community leaders have spoken out. Commissions have formed and organizations have taken on the cause. But the issue of workforce housing not only remains, it has worsened. A website will launch soon – SuncoastHousingNow.com – that will bring together the news, proposed solutions, and the resources available in our region.

Myth: Increasing rent and home prices only affect low-wage earners, people in the service industry and those who have entry-level jobs.

Fact: Many working professionals have become unable to afford Sarasota-Manatee rent and home costs, including healthcare workers, teachers, police officers, firefighters, office workers – jobs that our community depends upon to be economically viable.

The What - Workforce housing is for individuals and families typically earning between 80% and 120% Area Median Income. The area has a critical shortage of available workforce housing. This refers to the “missing middle,” individuals and families who earn too much to qualify for state or local assistance, but not enough to afford housing in the communities where they work.

The Why - Rent prices are growing four times faster than income. Local, hardworking people are living paycheckto-paycheck, skipping meals and running out of ways to afford rent. In June 2022, Sarasota-Manatee area housing prices have trended upwards 43.4% year over year, pushing new, working-class homeowners out of the market. As a significant concern in the Sarasota-Manatee area, the need for attainable workforce housing is difficult to deny. The solutions require champions and advocates to amplify the message, directly address the issue and make our region livable for those who keep our economy running. As leaders within the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance, we have the ability to lead the charge toward a resolution.

Allison Imre 2022 Chair of the Board

It’s hard to believe we are halfway through 2022. While we are in the heat of the summer, I hope each of you are enjoying the summer and spending time doing the things you love. Thank you to everyone who sent their well wishes for the birth of our third child, David Adam Lamont. It’s been an exciting time for our family and I am looking forward to getting back to business. The Alliance team has been busy with some really exciting projects for you to engage in your membership and create meaningful business partnerships along the way.

Brittany Lamont President / CEO

The new LWRBA website just launched - Within the pages of this publication you will find details on how you can utilize this platform to keep your membership up-to-date, registering for events is now easier than ever, and we have new online tools to gain visibility. Now more than ever, its important for you to make sure your information with us is updated, please reach out to a member of our team for any assistance.

Executive Academy is back - Whether you are a seasoned executive who wants to brush up on your communication skills or looking to build your career and learn the tools to be a successful leader, this is a great opportunity for you or a member of your team. Space for this is limited, so register today!

East Meets West – Don’t miss one of our largest events of the year! Join hundreds of LWRBA members and showcase your business through a booth or sponsorship.

We are looking forward to seeing you all at the next LWRBA event!

Brittany Lamont LWRBA President/CEO

alliance

If you have visited our website at www.LWRBA.org in the recent weeks, you may have noticed the site looks a little different. Not only did it get a fresh and modern face-lift to the overall look, but the site is also being powered by an all-new database system to provide members with a better and more robust user experience. It’s easier to use and offers more tools and resources to maximize your Alliance membership. While we encourage you to explore the site on your own, here are some features we’re most excited about, and a few tips to get you started.

First, create your account!

If you haven’t already, click the ‘Member Login’ button at the top of the page, then choose the ‘Create Account’ option.

Easier Event Registration

It’s easier than ever to register for events. Check out the main LWRBA Calendar to sign up, and even add reminders directly to your own calendar! Best of all, we’re finally able to offer a much-requested feature – the ability to securely save your credit card information to make future registrations a breeze.

Greater Access for Young Professionals

Membership application and event registration is now all under the same roof. Members of the Young Leaders Alliance now have access to their member benefits directly on the main LWRBA website, allowing them to easily register for all events and search the YLA directory on the same platform.

IT’S HERE! OUR NEW WEBSITE! An all-new online experience, just for you!

Enhanced Visibility for Members

Our new site offers a more streamlined way to share your own events, news, and discounts!

- Easily find and connect with your fellow members through the enhanced Member Directory. Pro-tip – make sure your company’s profile and contact information is complete and accurate so your future clients can find you! Login to the Member Portal to edit your information.

Promote Your Own Events - Advertise your upcoming events to other members on the

Job Board - Create a posting for any job openings you have available - gain visibility and help recruit new employees.

Member News - Share exciting and important information with our community through the Member Portal.

Member 2 Member Discounts - Add an online coupon to share on our site and attract users to your business. Of course, don’t forget to take advantage of deals offered by your fellow members, too!

This is just the start!

In the coming months, we’ll be rolling additional opportunities, such as the option for enhanced directory listings, banner advertising, and more! If we can help you in any way, please reach out to our team at info@lwrba.org today!

thealliance//summer

Banking for what’s next.

Perkins

Vice President

Renee Brady

First Vice President

September 15

Be one of nearly 100 exhibitors showcasing their products and services at Sarasota’s Robarts Arena. In addition to these exhibitor booths, complimentary tasting samples will be provided by our restaurant partners, and beverages will be available at the cash bar.

On September 15th, members from the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance and Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce reconnect and showcase their businesses at our largest event of the year, the 14th Annual East Meets West Regional Business Expo. The first 250 guests will receive East Meets West Goodie Bags loaded with treasures and useful swag!

SPONSORS

Limited sponsorships are still available! Get your name in front of thousands of potential customers in the build up to the expo. More information is available on the website at www.EastMeetsWestExpo.com.

EXHIBITORS

Premium Booth Space: $450

Standard Booth Space: $350 (All

ft.

Don’t wait to sign up - exhibitor spots tend to sell out weeks in advance!

ATTENDEES

Take advantage of our half price specialattendee tickets are just $5 until September 14th! Purchase tickets online at www.EastMeetsWestExpo.com.

OCTOBER 6-8, 2022

The LWRBA is pleased to announce its 5th Annual Alliance Gives Back Volunteer Days will take place October 6, 7, and 8, 2022. This volunteer initiative connects business members and their families with Alliance member non-profit organizations to positively impact the community through various activities.

For our non-profit members, participating in our 2022 Alliance Gives Back Volunteer Days is not only an opportunity to receive some assistance with people-power from Alliance members, but also a wonderful opportunity to showcase your organization, mission, and impact in the community.

This year, we are excited to announce a partnership with the LWR Community Fund to offer additional ways to support our nonprofits and engage your team. More details coming soon!

Last year, the initiative broke records with over 200 LWRBA members volunteering across various activities with over 27 local non-profits. Volunteer projects can be in-person or virtual, depending on what is best for your non-profit.

Non-profit registration will be open during July at www.lwrba.org/AllianceGivesBack.

Sign-ups for volunteers will open in August. Stay tuned for more announcements!

Say Cheese!

It was an amazing season for events this spring! Our members had the opportunity to tour local businesses on our Road Show event, hit the links at the annual Ranch Scramble, and of course, connect and network at all of our regular luncheon, and social events!

> Find us on Facebook and Instagram for more photos from all of our events!

The Alliance Voted Best Local Chamber!

On the Calendar

Alliance LEADS// Digital Transformation

Wednesday, July 13 // 7:30-9:00 a.m.

SCF Lakewood Ranch, 7131 Professional Parkway

Small businesses on the Suncoast are experiencing a generational shift in their customer base and audience. Join us marketing expert Chris Williams walks us through this digital transformation, what to expect and how to prepare your organization to reach and engage your audience today and into the future.

Members $10 // Non-members $20

Luncheon // Economic Impact of Geopolitical Events

Wednesday, July 27 // 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. The Ballroom at Grove, 10670 Boardwalk Loop

Do you want to know what to expect from the economy and how it’ll impact you as a business owner? Are you wondering what impacts oil, commodities and the broader market? Then join us for an informative discussion with Scott Zelniker of UBS Financial Services on how today’s geopolitical events impact the global economy.

Members $35 // Non-members $45

Networking Social // SCF - Lakewood Ranch

Wednesday, August 3 // 5:00-7:00 p.m. State College of Florida - Lakewood Ranch Campus, 7131 Professional Parkway E Join us at the State College of Florida - Lakewood Ranch Campus in the lobby of their Medical Technology & Simulation Center for an evening of networking. Enjoy complimentary beer and wine, and a wide variety of treats provided by Dutchman Hospitality.

Free for LWRBA Members // Non-members $15

Alliance LEADS// Dissolving Disputes

Wednesday, August 10 // 7:30-9:00 a.m.

SCF Lakewood Ranch, 7131 Professional Parkway

Join us for an interactive and engaging workshop with Will Luera, that will focus on practicing communication skills by using improvisational exercises used with professionals around the world. The class will build these soft skills and leave you with tools that can be used in your own workspace to engage your team and fine-tune their communication techniques.

Members $10 // Non-members $20

Luncheon // First in Class: The Future of LWR Schools

Wednesday, August 24 // 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

The Ballroom at Grove, 10670 Boardwalk Loop

Lakewood Ranch continues to rank at the top of the nation’s fastest growing multi-generational communities, and Manatee and Sarasota School Districts are anticipating and planning for the future needs of our region. School Superintendents Cynthia Saunders (Manatee) and Brennan Asplen (Sarasota) join us to share an update on LWR’s high ranking schools and what’s in store for the years ahead.

Members $35 // Non-members $45

thealliance//summer 2022

Visit us online for a full calendar Visit www.lwrba.org/events for more information on these and other upcoming Alliance events.

Breakfast Social // Florida Blue

EAST MEETS WEST

Wednesday, September 7

8:00-9:30 a.m. Florida Blue Center - Sarasota, 285 N Cattlemen Rd

Start your day with a cup of coffee and mingling with your Alliance friends at this special Breakfast Networking Social hosted by Florida Blue at their Sarasota center at University Town Center.

for LWRBA Members

Non-members

Breakfast of Champions

Steering Your Team to Victory

Wednesday, September 14 // 7:30-9:00 a.m. Location TBD

Dragon Boat Coach and cancer survivor Angela Long shares her story of resilience and mental fortitude, as she illustrates how to navigate obstacles, personalities, mind-sets, resources, and opportunities on the journey to success.

Members $35 // Non-members $45

Signature Event

East Meets West Expo

Luncheon

Empower Yourself & Others to Success

Wednesday, September 28

11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club, 7650 Legacy Blvd

Leadership expert and keynote speaker Bill Barker talks how to champion change by learning to think differently, and how affect change, not react to it. Bill will touch on how to remain calm and resilient in a fast paced world while empowering yourself and those around you.

Members $35 // Non-members $45

Members-Only Event // Lunch with Ranchers

There’s something to be said about doing business with

LEADER

TEAM NEEDS TODAY

Gain the leadership, communication, and connection skills you need to motivate your workforce in 2022.

Take your place and take the lead among our communities’ highest-achieving professionals at the Executive Academy. This dynamic, interactive live-training experience delivers the leadership, communication, and connection skills you need to keep your team inspired at work.

Now in its 8th year, the Executive Academy follows a

Powered by nationally acclaimed training firm, Game On Nation, this course delivers immersive, experiential learning in an uplifting and laughter-filled small group environment. Insightful leaders know that skills like listening, empathy, and emotional intelligence are at the forefront of what employees expect in 2022, and the Executive Academy provides an experiential practicum and clear action steps to help you bring these behaviors to life so you can lead by example for your workforce.

Enrollment Now Open!

NEW LOCATION: The Tower at Nathan Benderson Park LWRBA Member Tuition: $1,200*

Non-Members: $1,400

Don’t wait! Enroll today at LWRBA.org/Excecutive-Academy.

LWRBA YOUNG LEADERS ALLIANCE

The Power of Connection for Young Professionals

As an extension of the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance, the Young Leaders Alliance provides a platform which engages young professionals in the Lakewood Ranch area.

Build meaningful relationships and meet new friends at these upcoming Young Leaders Alli ance events! Mark your calendar today!

July Networking Social Thursday, July 28 / 5:30-7:30 p.m. Tru by Hilton Free for YLA Members; Non-members $10

YLA Luncheon Thursday, August 25 / 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. The Carlisle Inn YLA Members $25; Non-members $30

September Networking Social Thursday, September 22 / 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Sarasota Opera Free for YLA Members; Non-members $10

ONLINE AT

on

VOTE YES ON NOVEMBER 8TH

What is Penny for Improvement

What is Penny for Improvements?

The penny tax, or Sarasota County "Penn to sustain and improve our public safety traffic congestion, parks, and more. It is percent sales tax applied toward local in for the county, school district, and munic

The penny tax, or Sarasota County “Penny for Improvements,” is used to sustain and improve our public safety, water quality, environment, traffic congestion, parks, and more. It is a voterapproved one percent sales tax applied toward local infrastructure improvements for the county, school district, and municipalities.

Is this new to Sarasota County?

Is this new to Sarasota County?

Penny for Improvements is not new, but a continuation of a revenue source that has been in effect for over 32 years.

Penny for Improvements is not new, but source that has been in effect for over 3

Who pays?

Who pays?

Over 20% of funds are provided by tourists and visitors. Residents cover the remainder.

Over 20% of funds are provided by touri cover the remainder.

Why is Penny for Improvements important?

Penny for Improvements prevents crises and improves our quality of life and well-being.

Why is Penny for Improvements

How is it used?

Penny for Improvements prevents crise life and well-being.

The penny is used for infrastructure improvements. Therefore, it cannot be applied toward operating expenses such as staff or maintenance personnel for a building.

How is it used?

The penny is used for infrastructure imp cannot be applied toward operating exp maintenance personnel for a building.

Investments for the use and benefit of Sarasota County residents, include new or improved roads, police and fire safety vehicles, parks, schools, water and waste management systems, and more.

Learn more at www.pennyforimprovements.com

Investments for the use and benefit of S include new or improved roads, police an schools, water and waste management

Learn more at www.pennyfor

Toni

Ribbon Cuttings Celebrating new businesses!

Visit our website’s Member Directory to learn more about these new businesses.

If you’ve recently opened a new business, relocated or renovated your business, let us know! A ribbon cutting can create additional exposure and buzz for your new business!

Available to new, relocated, and renovated member business locations. Ribbon cuttings will be available Monday-Friday, between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

The Alliance will provide the ribbon and ceremonial scissors, and take a photo to be posted on the LWRBA website. You will receive the photo within 48 hours to use as you wish for your own marketing materials. The LWRBA can provide a list of media and government officials for you to contact and invite to your ribbon cutting. Minimum 2 weeks notice required. Dates and times are subject to availability.

For more info on hosting your own ribbon cutting, contact 941-757-1664 or info@lwrba.org.

Kind Smiles Dental Health BODYBAR Pilates

PopStroke

Robert Toale and Sons Celebration of Life Center at Lakewood Ranch Lakewood Ranch Med Spa

Coastal Orthopedics

Brown & Brown

Bay Area Aesthetics Inc. Asolo Rep Koski Center

Ready to move your life forward?

SWITCH TO REGIONS.

And find what you need to get where you want to go.

Looking for a bank with personalized customer service, expert advice, plus online and mobile tools to make your life easier? At Regions, you’ve got all that and more. With approximately 1,500 banking offices and 1,900 ATMs throughout the Southeast, Regions makes it easy to manage your money and make smart financial decisions.

Ready to move your life forward? Switch to Regions today.

1.800.regions | regions.com

Follow us for helpful tips and information.

© 2022 Regions Bank.

The LifeGreen color is a

of Regions Bank.

CHRISTY

Broker Associate,

TESS SAVINI Realtor

PHILIP PRATLEY Realtor & Engineer, Geology & Contract Development, Analyst & Strategist

on Spreadsheets,

50+

we lift spirits

With eleven airlines and over 50+ destinations, SRQ is proud to help our community reconnect with family and friends, and discover new places. We’re honored to be a member of the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance. Together we provide the momentum for growth and the revitalization of our economy through tourism. srq-airport.com

Knowledge You Can TrustTM