SRQ Magazine | February 2023

all grown up 28

Four very successful yet very different national companies have one thing in common. They all started in the Sarasota area. Join us for a Q&A with First Watch, PGT Innovations, DutchCrafters and Tervis Tumbler Company as they share their past, present and future stories. Written by

Kevin Allen and Barbie Heit | Photography by Wyatt Kostygan.

february 2023

11

BRANDSTORY FAWLEY BRYANT ARCHITECTS

24 TRIBUTE TO BUSINESS MORTON’S GOURMET MARKET TROPICAL INTERIORS FLORIST

35 35 UNDER 35 PROGRAM

FEATURING HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2022 35 UNDER 35 HONOREES PROGRAM AS RECOGNIZED BY THE COMMUNITY.

43 ELITE TOP ATTORNEYS

FEATURING HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2022 ELITE TOP ATTORNEYS PROGRAM AS RECOGNIZED BY LEGAL PEERS IN THE REGION.

srqist 16

World-renowned sculptor Jorge Blanco celebrates the opening of his new gallery and hopes his work will spread joy throughout his hometown. Punta Gorda’s Fat Point Brewing Company moves north with their first Sarasota location. Students and faculty at Riverview High School’s Construction Academy are really nailing it when it comes to career planning. Jaime Marco is transforming the way professionals communicate with each other and their customers.

culture city 63

While riding the high of their recent world premiere performance of “Apartments”, the Sybarite5 reflect on their journey from summer camp to stardom. Behind new play development at the Florida Studio Theatre

cargo 71 Hunting and gathering leather goods for the fashionable life.

forage 74

A creative partnership is making gastronomy fun at Wink Wink Modern Lounge. Sarasota’s restaurants ladle up delicious comfort food for chilly weather.

givingcoast 83

Cover: President and CEO Jeff Jackson of PGT Innovations, photography by Wyatt Kostygan. Previous page: The Cauli-Rizo Breakfast Tacos from First Watch, photography by Wyatt Kostygan. This page clockwise: Lusting for leather goods, photography by Wyatt Kostygan;

shares the creative process behind “Apartments,” photography courtesy of Sybarite5; and the sopa de mariscos

Azetca Mexican Seafood Restaurant, photography by Wes Roberts.

Sybarite5

seafood soup from Mariscos

FEBRUARY

CEO / PRESIDENT / EDITOR IN CHIEF

LISL LIANG

EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER

WES ROBERTS

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS AND ENGAGEMENT

Ashley Grant

ACCOUNTS + CLIENT SERVICE AND DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Robinson Valverde

SENIOR SALES AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVE Suzanne Munroe

SALES AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVE Nichole Knutson Rob Wardlaw

VP OF PHOTOGRAPHY + VIDEO Wyatt Kostygan

MANAGING EDITOR Barbie Heit

CLIENT MARKETING+ DIGITAL PROGRAMS MANAGER Gabriella Alfonso

DIGITAL MARKETING + EVENTS MANAGER Megan Mitchell

CONTRIBUTING ART DIRECTOR + SENIOR DESIGNER Virginia Jankovsky

EDITORIAL ASSOCIATE Dylan Campbell Arianna Kolesar Laura Paquette

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS + ARTISTS Kevin Allen, Chris Leverett, Jacob Ogles, Kate Wight

2023

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— MARCH 7 —

FEATURED PANELISTS

SUSIE BOWIE

William G. and Marie Selby Foundation Incoming President/CEO

BETH DUDA Patterson Foundation Director of the Suncoast Campaign for Grade Level Reading

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KELLY ROMANOFF Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation Innovation and Impact O cer

srqist

THE ART OF HAPPINESS

World-renowned sculptor Jorge Blanco celebrates the opening of his new gallery and hopes his work will spread joy throughout his hometown. Laura Paquette

SCULPTURAL

ARTIST

JORGE BLANCO opens his new exhibition at the Andrew Ford Fine Art Gallery this month. Born in Venezuela, Blanco has lived in the United States since 1999, creating playful sculptures that harken back to childhood days spent doodling with a box of crayons.

Blanco grew up in an urban environment, and went on to study industrial design at the Neumann Design Institute. “There was almost no industrial development in Venezuela,” he says, “so many of my professors were actually artists, which had a great influence on my education.”

While studying, Blanco also learned about graphic design. He graduated and became a graphic designer, a profession that supported him financially. “During my free time, I would work on my sculptures,” he adds. His sculpting work, often comprised of dark hues, reflected the chaos and suffering of the world around him. Continuing his graphic design work, Blanco moved to Europe. In Italy, he discovered the delightful art of comics, which didn’t exist in Venezuela until Blanco introduced it to the country. Returning to Venezuela, he became the creative director for the Children’s Museum in Caracas, surrounded by happy kids in his workplace.

Working with children, falling in love with his wife and becoming a father contributed to a shift in Blanco’s artistic style. His sculptures, some of which are on view as urban public art in Sarasota, feature bright colors and joyful themes. The gallery in particular features whimsical sculptures of everything from a fish to a tiny human marveling at a giant carrot.

Usually artists have gallery showings for only a few weeks, but this gallery is permanent, making Blanco proud to have a designated exposition space in his home city. Blanco credits Andrew Ford, of Andrew Ford Fine Art, and Jozef Batko for helping to make the gallery possible. “More than winning an award, I feel most rewarded when someone views my work and it makes them smile,” says Blanco.

This page: Sculptor Jorge Blanco at the Andrew Ford Gallery, 502 S. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota. 941-650-8854. jorgeblancosculpture.com. Photo by Wyatt Kosytgan.

IMAGES COURTESY OF FAT POINT

MOVING UPSTREAM

Punta Gorda’s Fat Point Brewing Company moves north with their first Sarasota location. Dylan Campbell

IS A STORY ABOUT TWO BODIES OF WATER, A

AND NEW BEGINNINGS. At the convergence of the Peace River and the Gasparilla Sound lies the city of Punta Gorda – the “fat point” where freshwater meets the ocean to create the Charlotte Harbor. It is also home to the eponymously named Fat Point Brewing Company, which is bringing its award-winning craft brews to its latest outpost in University Town Center (UTC) in Sarasota. The decision to open a location in Sarasota comes after years of delays with prior plans to move to a larger warehouse in Punta Gorda.

This page: Some of Fat Point’s signature beers are making their way to Sarasota.

“We were originally in an industrial warehouse about a mile south of downtown Punta Gorda and the landlord sold the building,” says President of Fat Point Brewing Co. LJ Govoni. “We were set on moving across the street to a warehouse we bought with the intention of redeveloping, but Covid, a hurricane, and just economic malaise has delayed that project more times than I care for it to have been delayed. Right now, we’re kind of in limbo and our brewing and distribution has been moved to Big Storm Brewery, which has been a great sister brewery for us.” Fat Point was acquired by Clearwater’s Big Storm Brewery in 2017, allowing the Punta Gordabased micro brewery to continue to produce beer with the help of Big Storm’s equipment and managerial staff. Govoni is also the co-founder of Seaboard Craft Beer Holdings, Big Storm’s parent company.

Fat Point’s newest location in UTC will act as the brewery's first “home away from home” outside of Punta Gorda and gives the company a chance to

expand north into a new city. “We’re excited to expand the brand north into Sarasota,” says Govoni. “We’re taking over a space formerly inhabited by a fast casual food concept and installing a tap room with an outdoor seating area. There will be a little beer garden and a tiny area for live music as well.”

At the end of the day, however, any venture from Fat Point will always be about the beer—with Sarasota’s UTC location being no exception to that rule. Not only will there be a menu of traditional seafood-oriented, beach fare—think fish sandwiches and shrimp tacos —but there will also be a markedly different variety of beer than what is traditionally offered in Punta Gorda. “A lot of what we brew there will probably never be brewed again. The location will likely be a one barrel system – two kegs at a time – brewing really small, different batches of beer. We’ll really just be turning the keys over to the head brewer and telling them to just brew good beer, regardless of what style it is.” SRQ

THIS

BREWERY

BUILDING CAREERS

This page: Course instructor, Alex Licther, shares his knowledge and experience with a group of eager students five days a week.

AT THE START OF THIS SCHOOL YEAR, the high school celebrated its brand new, firstof-its-kind, construction technology lab, The Riverview High School Construction Academy, generously funded by members of the Gulf Coast Builders Exchange (GCBX). GCBX member businesses support the fouryear program by offering students real-life experience, internships and apprenticeships in preparation for construction jobs extended upon graduation from high school or college. The first day started with 60 enthusiastic students and a long waiting list.

The partnership began when GCBX members Chuck Jacobson of Aqua Plumbing and Air and Kent Hayes of Tandem Construction were contacted by the school district about the possibility of starting a construction trades academy at Riverview High School. They immediately thought about involving GCBX and its members. Once the budget for the program was developed, GCBX members with Jon F. Swift Construction as the General Contractor on the project stepped up and donated time and materials for the classroom build-out. Charlene Neal of Neal Communities is a Riverview alumna, so she immediately saw the need in the community and became the lead donor to benefit the industry and the students at her alma mater.

“There are so many people to thank, not the least of which is Riverview Principal Erin Haughey,” says Mary Dougherty, Executive Director of GCBX. “In all, over 50 GCBX member businesses contributed to make this project such a huge success.”

One key reason for the popularity of the course is the instructor, Alex Lichter, who sees his younger self in many of his students. A former construction worker, Lichter was teaching at Suncoast Technical College when he learned about the plans for the program. He immediately reached out to learn more.

“I wish this program was here when I was in high school because I would have participated in it myself,” he said. “To be able to give this kind of knowledge to a group of kids who were just like me is the greatest gift I could give.”

Compared to a typical shop class in high school which is one period a day, the Riverview program is a 90 minute block class limited to a group of 20 students for safety reasons. Block classes give students time to first learn about the project and then create it. In order to participate, students must give up two elective classes.

“At the end of the day, we want our students to have a career and we want to support them in that,” Principal Haughey says. “College is an avenue. But going right into a career is also an avenue and that can be wonderful as well.”

Lichter believes that the need for new construction workers is greater than ever. “For every five people that retire from construction, only two or three people are replacing them,” he says. “Across Florida, an enormous number of construction workers are going to retire within the next couple of years with no one to replace them. Also, there is a lot of need for building and rebuilding in the community right now from hurricane damage.”

After completing the program, learning the trade and graduating high school with certification, students are able to go right into the workforce. Neal Communities will give internships to seniors, providing them a taste of a career with a home-building company.

“For the second part of this school year, our plan is to get kids on job sites and exposed to all the different areas of construction,” says Haughey. “Our end goal is to have our students out in the community working with local companies and giving our program a great reputation. My hope is that this program will one day exist for all high schools.”

“Construction is an art,” Lichter says. “Not only do you have to make something technically correct, but you have to make it look good. Kids are learning as they go along to have an artistic eye.”

SRQ

Students and faculty at Riverview High School are really nailing it when it comes to career planning. Barbie Heit

This page: “My goal is to help people change their perspective on how they're operating now, and see things in a new light so they can move forward even better than before,” says Jaime Marco, founder of Evolve Business Consulting.

WONDER WOMAN

FACED WITH THE QUESTION, “WHAT DO YOU DO? Jaime Marco has a simple, three-word answer: “I change lives.” As the owner and president of the Lakewood Ranch-based Evolve Business Consulting, she’s in a perfect position to do so. Her company offers bespoke training programs for businesses large and small, focusing on three main pillars: leadership sales, and customer experience. Her clients walk away inspired, optimistic, eager to implement Marco’s coaching tips and begin their own evolution.

How Jaime Marco is transforming the way professionals communicate with each other and their customers. Kevin Allen

One such client is the Tampa Bay Rays Major League Baseball team. Scott Wilson, its director of human resources and culture, wanted to pull in some leadership training for the organization’s managers and directors. Wilson had heard about Marco’s work through contacts at the State College of Florida that had highly recommended her. The Rays put out a call for proposals, Marco answered it and her classes “aligned with exactly what we wanted, which was how to manage difficult conversations, how to give reviews and how to lead,” Wilson says.

Marco delivered her Foundations of Leadership class as a tryout for some of the team’s HR leadership, and from there, Wilson says the Rays “were hooked.”

“It was her energy and her personality that really glowed through the content, and from there we just took off running,” Wilson says.

This is when the real work starts for Marco. At this point, she sets to work creating a program that’s tailored to a business’ needs. Marco starts by asking questions and listening. She wants to understand the problem. She worked with Wilson to understand where the Rays needed help. Marco also gets to know everyone in the room by name, going beyond the LinkedIn profile. She seeks a human connection with her clients and it’s a process that starts before she even enters the room for the first workshop. Through that intake process, she built a custom plan that fit the organization’s needs.

“My goal,” Marco says, “is to help people change their perspective on how they're operating now and see things in a new light so they can move forward even better than before.” If it sounds lofty and ambitious, that’s because Marco herself is one of the most-driven people you’ll ever meet. Perhaps this infectious energy stems from her work as a top sales producer for Lennar Homes. Perhaps it’s her corporate communications experience at companies like Clearwire and SAC Wireless, where she worked as a national field sales trainer and a communications director, respectively. It may also stem from her first job — a special host on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, where Marco had to cheerfully greet every single passenger she encountered. “Every day, 24 hours a day, I was interacting with people and changing their vacation,” she says.

From changing vacations to changing lives, wherever she summons the energy, it’s the same even when she’s sick. For this piece,

Marco had to decline an in-person interview because she had been sidelined with whatever gunk her seven-year-old daughter brought home from school. You would have never known it as her passion came across just as clear over a Zoom call. If this is the force she brings to the table when she’s under the weather, it’s hard to imagine what it’s like when she’s operating at full strength.

It’s something that Wilson and the Rays witnessed first-hand. One aspect of Marco’s coaching that stood out was her personal attention to detail.

“She really cared about us as individuals more than just as a client,” Wilson says. “Immediately she went through, she got to know us, and then every time that she spoke to us, she used our names and she knew our titles.” And the content? One aspect that stood out for Wilson was Marco’s coaching on communication. He says that Marco’s coaching around understanding communication preferences can help in the workplace. Wilson admits he’s “notorious for long emails,” and wasn’t getting prompt responses from a coworker. After the training, he asked a coworker if she would prefer text messages to long emails, and the lines of communication burst open. “That was huge for me, and we wouldn’t have known that without Jaime pulling that out of us. She’s really making us explore who we are as people, and then who our employees and bosses are, and whether we’re communicating the right way,” Wilson says.

Marco notes that many professionals take a “golden rule” approach to leadership — treat others the way you want to be treated. A better approach, she says, is the “platinum rule,” which encourages servant leadership, taking the time to find out people’s preferences, how they prefer to have difficult conversations, and then tailoring their approach in the workplace. And for those keeping score at home, this is the approach Marco takes when onboarding new clients.

“What we've come to the conclusion of by going through these classes is we're not setting proper expectations for our staff of clearly communicating exactly what we want,” Wilson says. He’s impressed with the way Evolve has helped his company … well, evolve. “I can’t say enough good things about the work that Jaime does.” Fortunately for Marco, he’s not alone. SRQ

JAIME'S 5 COACHING TIPS TO HELP YOUR BUSINESS EVOLVE

DON’T FEAR DIFFICULT CONVERSATIONS

When it comes to leadership, never assume you're doing a good job. One of the questions I always empower leaders to ask their team is, When was the last time you thought of quitting and why? Only the really great leaders are comfortable to ask that question. And if you're not comfortable asking your team that question, then we need to talk because there are things that you need to be doing in order to get there.

IMPROVE YOUR SALES BY FOCUSING ON THE RIGHT QUESTIONS

Sales is all about what questions you are asking. Today's customers are more savvy than ever. When sales teams identify the right questions to ask they get even better answers.

SET CLEAR EXPECTATIONS FOR YOUR TEAM

People think that they really set clear expectations, but they' don't. I give a very good formula that allows people to know that they've set clear expectations and that their team fully understands what they're doing. Your expectations directly impact the results that you get.

REFRAME CUSTOMER SERVICE TO FOCUS ON CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

We have to change our mindset from service to experience. How are your customers feeling when they're experiencing your business?

WRITE THANK-YOU NOTES

One of the things that I coach people to do that makes the biggest difference is the power of a written note. I try to write at least 10 to 15 every two weeks. What's interesting about it is that as soon as that happens and they start doing it, it's incredible the impact you can have just by sending a handwritten thank-you note. I would challenge everybody to think about writing five thank-you notes to people in your life and then see what happens.

FEB 2023

MORTON’S GOURMET MARKET TROPICAL INTERIORS FLORIST

As a locally grown, locally owned company, SRQ MEDIA pays tribute to our community’s visionary local businesses and the people behind them who work hard to create economic opportunities every day on the Gulf Coast of Florida.

MORTON’S GOURMET MARKET–LOCALLY OWNED AND MANAGED OVER 50 YEARS SERVING THE SARASOTA COMMUNITY. Through hurricanes, heatwaves and a multitude of community changes, Morton’s Gourmet Market has been Sarasota’s recognized leader offering only the best foods, wine, unique and highly prestigious brands. Eddie, Todd and Kristin Morton continue to manager this gem located at the same Osprey Avenue address since inception.

Patrons will find all the ingredients for the best madeat-home dinners as well as a fine array of prime meats, seafood, fresh produce, freshly made salads, prepared entrees, on-premises bakery with coffee bar and a large selection of fine wines. If you’re not in the mood or have no time to cook, a full-scale deli and gourmet prepared meals are available for fast grab and go.

“The business becomes more challenging each year, especially now with the worker shortage, supply issues and struggling economy, however, we have found it extremely rewarding to meet the shopper requests and offer items that our customers search out.” says Eddie Morton.

Todd Morton says that he “thrives on seeing the smiling returning customers and new ones every day. Being able to help shoppers with their choices is something we and our experienced staff thoroughly enjoy.”

A smaller version of Morton’s on Osprey is Siesta Key Market with an island twist which is located in Siesta Key Village. This location offers some staple groceries and similar items as the Osprey location plus non-food items. Positioned next door is their full-service liquor, wines, cigars and bar accessories shop. With some restrictions, delivery is offered on the key.

Giving back is very important for the Morton’s family and two of the many ways they do just that are the Chili Cookoff which supports the local Firefighters Benevolent Fund and Morton’s Culinary Education Fund. Through customer purchases, the Fund offers scholarships to Sarasota County students interested in pursuing a culinary career.

Entrenched and an integral part of the community for over 50 years, there are many ways to find just what you need such as in-store, online shopping, full-service curbside pickup and delivery services available plus staffed catered events. The prepared family dinners with all the fixings have become a holiday favorite. Morton’s is available to handle any size request.

TRIBUTE TO BUSINESS ON THE CREATIVE COAST

“At all locations, what is important are happy customers.”

— Eddie Morton, Co-owner

Above: Eddie and Todd Morton, co-owners.

TRIBUTE TO BUSINESS ON THE CREATIVE COAST

TROPICAL INTERIORS FLORIST

“Our success so far is reflective of all the hearts—mine and our staff members’—and, perhaps most importantly, the enthusiasm and support of the community. We’re really excited to be able to continue the memory of Tropical Interiors Florist because we’ll get more face time with the community that has already lifted us up so much in the last two years. We’re excited to be more present in more areas locally in Manatee and Sarasota County.”

— Chanté DeMoustes, Owner

TROPICAL INTERIORS FLORIST IS CONTINUING ITS LONG-STANDING 48 YEARS IN BUSINESS IN THE MANATEE AND

1975. The owner Chanté DeMoustes wanted to keep the life of the floral industry going and introduce the newly designed shop by creating a unique showroom that invites you into the rustic and French flower market with products and floral arrangements that are unique to the area. Come on in and meet the Tropical team and check out the beautiful store. We offer a wide selection of arrangements to create unique wrapped bouquets that are made to order. Chanté DeMoustes is excited to have a local storefront in Bradenton for the business she took over in 2020. “We can offer so many things that you could never find in traditional retail stores,” she says. “I’m looking forward to letting people see the real floral beauty that is possible to generate from our bouquets with classic staples to trending artistic arrangements. We are excited to connect with the community in a way that we have yet to have the opportunity to do. We’re looking forward to seeing many new daily faces in the community and being able to talk to people about our work and showcase how abundant our products are to help cater to any customer needs.” Tropical Interiors Florist offers year-round flower subscriptions for weekly or monthly services, daily everyday arrangements, botanical décor, tropical flowers, fresh cut flowers, houseplants, dried flowers, centerpieces, sympathy funeral arrangements for services, office arrangements and business house accounts to create custom arrangements. Services also include wedding and event design consultations. Tropical Interiors Florist offers specialty cut flowers that are straight from farms internationally. “In the floral industry it is hard to compete with all 1-800 online stores and Grocery store offers, but we promise the flowers last and speak for themselves. The floral industry needs all local continued support as it is a chain of businesses working together to keep the floral artistry alive. There is so much that goes into each flower arrangement from the time it is grown to getting it into the customers’ hands to enjoy. It is a living piece of art, and each flower has its own unique beauty. We can’t encourage more to call your local flower shop and avoid online-order-taking companies. Your local florist can cater to customers’ needs faster and with better quality. We focus on customer care, quality, and our rapport with each client.” Through the Tropical website www.tropicalinteriorsflorist.com, customers can buy bouquets or schedule pickup of flowers to design their own arrangements at home. As for the flower subscriptions, these are great gift givers or just for oneself to enjoy. Subscribers can select different packages available from monthly, quarterly and yearly. If you are thinking ahead for special occasions or holidays this is great gift idea.

Chante’ DeMoustes, Owner

SARASOTA AREA SINCE

Four very successful yet very different national companies have one thing in common. They all started in the Sarasota area. Join us for a Q&A with First Watch, PGT Innovations, DutchCrafters and Tervis Tumbler Company as they share their past, present and future stories with us.

ALL GROWN UP

WRITTEN AND COMPILED BY KEVIN ALLEN AND BARBIE HEIT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY WYATT KOSTYGAN

This page: Shaine Schaibly and Lilan Rippett travel the country to develop new ideas for First Watch customers.

This page: The chicken pesto hash includes tw0 cage=free eggs. seasoned potatoes, tomatoes, chicken and house-made pico de gallo, topped with goat cheese and herbs.

FIRST WATCH

First Watch is a restaurant that fosters a culture centered upon putting its employees first, a belief that permeates both its customer service and business decisions. Sarasota is the home base for this business that has more than 445 restaurants in 28 states.

SHARE YOUR ORIGIN STORY

First Watch traces its roots to Pacific Grove, California, between Monterey and Carmelby-the-Sea, where our first restaurant opened in 1983, and Sarasota, Florida, which we have called home since 1986. Our founders John Sullivan and Ken Pendery worked together at several restaurant groups before setting out to create a place of their own, committed to launching a casual gathering spot where guests could enjoy meals made from the freshest ingredients available. From the beginning, there was another crucial part of the First Watch equation: people. Pendery and Sullivan knew too many folks in the industry who were forced to balance the grueling hours dictated by their careers against spending time with

their families. They believed there was a better way, which explains why we’ve stuck to breakfast, brunch and lunch: we open at 7 am, close at 2:30 pm, and everyone can have a better quality of life.

As for the name “First Watch,” since the majority of our customers are not sailors, pirates or sea-farin’ scallywags, we seem to get this question a lot. A “first watch” is a nautical term that refers to the very first shift of the day. And if you ask us, it’s the best shift of the day.

BIGGEST LESSONS LEARNED THAT CONTINUE TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE SUCCESS OF THE COMPANY.

Just Be Kind: Our co-founder Ken Pendery built First Watch with a few foundational principles in mind: put others before yourself, go above and beyond for the customer and for each other and – most importantly – “just be kind.” This quote personifies not only how we treat our customers but also how we care for one another as one team. From holding the door to our “You First” mission, our teams serve with care, openness and intention.

You First: Over nearly four decades, First Watch has fostered a culture built on its “You First” mission, which puts people at the forefront of everything it does, a belief

that permeates our organization. We put our employees first, so they, in turn, put our customers first. Living this out to us means focusing on developing our people and engaging them around a strong sense of purpose and teamwork. This starts with ensuring each of our restaurants and our Home Office are places that nurture potential, recognize kindness and foster opportunities that let people know they matter, because they do.

YOUR SECRET SAUCE?

Since our founding in 1983, we have built the First Watch brand on our commitment to operational excellence, our “You First” culture and a culinary mission centered around our fresh, innovative menu that is continuously evolving. These foundational pillars have established us as the largest and fastest-growing concept in daytime dining.

First Watch is a community gathering place, and we appeal to a wide customer base who are looking for a connection and an experience, from older generations who see breakfast as a ritual to younger guests who treat the morning meal as an event and social occasion. We’ve always focused on what we do best, and we aren’t afraid to innovate, and this care and authenticity has helped build

How First Watch Chooses Its Suppliers

Rippett says choosing a supplier is about much more than price. It’s the quality of their product and their corporate culture. Some of the questions she’s asking include, “Does their culture match our culture? Are we on the same page? What are they thinking about? How are they coaching and training their teams? Is it the same way we do ours? Are our philosophies matched up?” Rippett recalls an instance where company cultures did not align. When visiting a prospective supplier, she noticed the company’s break room was dark and dingy with light bulbs burnt out. Employees were trying to eat their lunches in the dark. She remembers thinking, “This isn’t gonna work. We’re not aligned. This is not how you treat people.”

CULTURE YOU CAN TASTE

HOW FIRST WATCH GREW FROM A LOCAL SENSATION TO A NATIONAL FORCE IN DAYTIME DINING

From 7 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. at 455 locations across 29 states, thousands of people experience daytime dining at its best. It’s an experience that starts near the SarasotaBradenton border, just north of University near the highway. It’s an experience that has been meticulously refined, evolved and improved over 35 years. It’s the experience of dining at a First Watch. When the company moved its headquarters here from California in 1986, few would have predicted its steady rise that includes more than 110 Florida locations. So, how do you turn eggs, pancakes, avocado toast and kale tonic into one of Sarasota’s few publicly traded companies—one that employs 11,000 people nationwide and posted $235.2 million in national sales in third quarter 2022 alone?

They do it with the way they treat their customers. There’s a reason why First Watch servers open the door for you and greet you with a smile and a “Good morning.” They do it with the way they source their ingredients and prepare their food. Price is never the determining factor. They do it by creating a corporate culture that shows up in every interaction you have with hosts, servers, food runners and bussers. And for First Watch president and CEO Chris Tomasso, who has held the title since 2018, this culture is a reflection of the Sarasota-Bradenton area itself.

“It’s in our blood,” he says of the area. “When the two founders moved their families here in ‘86, there was no corporate office. They sat in the back room behind the restaurant on Main Street. That was the corporate office.”

Tomasso sees the area as a great place to raise families and an easy draw for attracting out-of-town talent. And while First Watch faces the same issues around affordable housing for its employees that other businesses here and nationwide are facing, he’s optimistic and proactive, involving himself in civic organizations like the Sarasota and Bradenton Economic Development corporations.

“When people think about First Watch and what we’re about,” Tomasso says, “they know where we’re based, and in our case it’s good because we take on the personality of where we’re based. This is a place where people love to come and get away, and that’s kind of what brunch is about. We’ve loved being here.” But no restaurant can maintain staying power without a quality product on the plate. That’s where Lilah Rippett and Shane Schaibly come in. They serve as senior vice president of supply chain and senior vice president of culinary strategy, respectively.

For Rippett, a quality product on the plate starts with finding providers (or “food makers” as she likes to call them) who not only make great syrup, for example, but also whose company culture mirrors that of First Watch. That’s not always easy as the company prefers to use a “follow the sun” strategy to source the freshest produce possible. For example, at the beginning of summer, all of its watermelon comes from Florida. By the end of summer, they may be sourcing watermelon from the Carolinas.

When Rippett joined the company, First Watch was using a more traditional brand of syrup that you might find in a

grocery store. She sought to find a new partner and, through an exhaustive 18-month search for what she calls “the pure stuff,” found one in Sugarman of Vermont. It’s a small detail — after all, it’s just syrup — but the details matter to this company.

“Where Mother Nature takes us, that’s where we will go and play,” Rippett says. “It’s the best quality. It’s easier for us to make sure we’re getting safe, good, number-one quality for our consumers.” Visiting suppliers, Rippett and Schaibly travel fairly regularly, and when they do, they’re eating at local breakfast restaurants around the country, they’re understanding trends and shifts in consumer habits. This helps the team come up with new ideas as it switches out its seasonal menu every 10 weeks. So, how do you create a menu that needs to appeal to a diverse set of diners from Florida to New Jersey, Illinois to Arizona? That task falls on Schaibly.

The company tests every new product in a handful of its Tampa locations, but before it gets there, the culinary team holds a brainstorming session where he says the team “dumps out all the ideas that we’ve been accumulating over the last six months.” It may start with ingredients like pumpkin and squash in the fall, or shrimp and crab in the summertime.

“We talk about the fruits and vegetables that are growing and are perfectly ripe during that season,” Schaibly says. “We talk about the proteins that would play well, and then we think about the dishes that have had great success for us in the past.”

From there, it’s a matter of combining ingredients into dishes. They’re figuring out if pork and green chiles would work better as a hash, breakfast burrito or a benedict (clearly a hash). They’re not inventing anything new, but they’re innovating in the way they balance those two golden words: creative process. Finding that balance between the creative side of things and the process side is one of Schaibly’s strengths, according to Rippett. “As a chef, his left brain and right brain are so balanced that that helps us to get to go faster,” she says.

Let’s face it. Chefs’ ambitions can get the better of them. Ideas that are wild and experimental may fly at independent restaurants, but scaling them is a different story. “I want all of those ridiculous things, but I also understand the reality of doing that in 500 restaurants,” Schaibly says. I take a lot of pride in being able to pick out what we think is going to be a trend and find out if those things can be done at scale.”

The company is proud of the ways they give back. Whether it’s supporting Mujeres en Café (or Women in Coffee) in Huila, Colombia, supporting local celebrity (and Lakewood Ranch First Watch regular) Dick Vitale’s work with the V Foundation, or donating millions to No Kid Hungry, the company takes the idea of service to a whole other level.

With the company’s current approach, Tomasso believes it can grow to 2,200 restaurants nationwide and still maintain the level of excellence that has helped it succeed to this point. And as for that beautiful building near the highway that First Watch calls its corporate headquarters, the company is already starting to outgrow it. “I’m really excited about what the future holds,” Tomasso says. And with so much opportunity (and avocado toast) on the horizon, how could you not be? — Kevin Allen

significant trust with our customers. In fact, a recent Technomic survey in Q3 2022 showed that we’re the second most trusted restaurant brand in America. For us, it’s all about people. That’s why we operate on one-shift a day, “No Night Shifts Ever” approach, which allows our teams in every First Watch restaurant–more than 455 of them in 29 states–to enjoy evenings with their family or friends and build a quality of life that is unparalleled in our industry.

A notable example of our culture at work: we were recently named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® by Newsweek magazine and the Best Practice Institute–ranking as one of only four other restaurant companies to make the list. This came about because our 11,000 team members across the country shared their voice in an anonymous survey and recognized us for exceptional employee satisfaction and happiness at work. Being nominated as a Newsweek’s Most Loved Workplace alone is an honor, but to be named within the Top 100 just further reflects the incredible grit and grace our teams bring to the table every day.

THE EXPERIENCE | CREATIVE PROCESS OF DEVELOPING, HONING AND EVOLVING THE PRODUCT LINE?

We’re continuously innovating and evolving our chef-driven menu to craft an elevated approach to traditional breakfast, brunch and lunch and push culinary boundaries. So when we say, “Yeah, it’s fresh,” we mean it: we follow the sun to uncover the highest quality ingredients and flavors possible, wherever and whenever they are in season, made to order in a kitchen without microwaves, heat lamps or deep fryers. With this “follow the sun” philosophy and freshness as a guiding principle, we’re adding new seasonal menu items every ten weeks–five times a year–to bring new, innovative ingredients and dishes to our customers. That’s why on our menu you’ll find vibrant, green California-grown asparagus in April, or the most refreshing Florida watermelon in July, or tender, sweet yellow corn from the Midwest in August.

Day to day, dish to dish, we obsess over every detail and every step. It takes time to uncover the best ingredients, to build relationships with bakers, makers and growers, and to explore the most delicious way to feature these ingredients on our menu. In this spirit, our culinary team has

a keen awareness of emerging trends and immerses themselves in the marketplace through inspiration tours using tasting and educational experiences to develop a robust pipeline of exciting new recipes and menu offerings. This is how we came to source our Project Sunrise coffee from female-owned and operated farms – the Mujeres en Café (or Women in Coffee) – in Colombia and our 100% pure maple syrup from the familyowned Sugarman of Vermont, among many other partnerships.

IN THREE WORDS, FIRST WATCH IS: Making Days Brighter.

INGREDIENT THAT MOST DEFINES FIRST WATCH? Avocados.

WHAT MADE SARASOTA A GREAT PLACE TO GROW FIRST WATCH?

For decades, First Watch has had the distinct privilege and pleasure of calling the Suncoast our home. We’ve led our operations out of Manatee and Sarasota Counties since we moved to Florida in 1986, when we opened our first Sunshine State restaurant in South Sarasota on South Tamiami Trail, which still serves the local community seven days a week. We then opened our second local restaurant later that year in downtown Sarasota, which was also home to the original corporate office – a 250-square-foot back room with two desks that has since been transformed into a space for private meetings and food photoshoots.

Just last year in July 2021, we opened the doors to our new corporate headquarters in the University Town Center area, located just off Cooper Creek Boulevard at 8725 Pendery Place, a street named for our cofounder and former CEO, Ken Pendery. Built by Benderson Development, our two-story Home Office serves as the base for more than 100 employees who support our national operations. And, to further expand on our “You First” culture, our office features a stateof-the-art fitness center, high-tech training room and recreational area, culinary suite, an employee café and several wellness rooms.

Our location along the Suncoast attracts people who are looking for a change of pace, away from big cities, and are attracted to everything this area has to offer–from award-winning beaches to arts and cultural attractions to an overall better quality of life in the sun.

DUTCH CRAFTERS

DutchCrafters is the leading retailer of Amish-made furniture, selling online and in their Sarasota and Alpharetta showrooms. The company is known as the destination for solid wood, American-made, Amish furniture that is aligned both with their customers’ styles and values.

SHARE YOUR ORIGIN STORY.

In November 2002, JMX Brands CEO Jim Miller and CIO Miao Xue, former classmates at the University of South Florida graduate program in organizational management, began sharing their aspirations to start a business together. In early 2003, while lunching at a popular Sarasota café, they agreed to proceed with an ecommerce firm, merging the initials of their names to create JMX.

They knew that they wanted to sell products online but didn’t initially know what they wanted to sell. Miao was responsible for developing the technical infrastructure for the ecommerce sites. Jim was responsible for finding the products to sell. As Jim started to identify products, Miao gave him some advice: seek out products related to what you know and love.

Drawing on his Mennonite background, Jim traveled with his wife, Linse, along country roads through pastoral landscapes of Pennsylvania, Ohio and Indiana, searching for quality Amish-made furniture and crafts. Jim and Linse observed firsthand the products’ unparalleled quality and appeal. Their interactions with skilled artisans and woodshop owners laid the foundation for building a new kind of team. Because Jim and Linse were familiar with Amish culture and traditions, they understood how to collaborate cooperatively with Amish vendors. Initially, some skepticism was noted, but Linse and Jim believed in the potential and accepted the challenges for what seemed to others an unlikely pairing— Amish woodworkers and the internet. With the development of dutchcrafters.com, JMX Brands became a disruptor in the field, being one of the first companies to sell Amishmade products online.Delivering excellence was the goal from the beginning.

ON GROWING NATIONAL

With its beginnings in 2003, JMX Brands is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. This is a milestone that many companies do not make. Still, if comparing to human development, the company is only now entering its adult years. As a company that continues to innovate, its culture is one of entrepreneurship with the feeling of constant growth and change. Its growth can be described in revenue and company size as well as local to national.

TODDLER YEARS

The company started as a true start-up, with Jim’s initial investment of $1,000 and offices in Jim and Linse’s living room. As an ecommerce business, the company started selling nationwide immediately. Focus during the early years was on establishing relationships with vendors, optimizing the websites to be found on search engines, managing the complications of shipping Amish products nationwide, especially since Amish woodworkers do not package their furniture and most of it needs to be delivered by specialty shippers who blanket wrap, and establishing a core group of employees that could manage multiple tasks as the company scaled up revenue. JMX Brands hired its first employee in 2004, with revenues over $500,000 that year. The company focused on Amish-made products but sold a variety of other niche products as well.

TEENAGE YEARS

As the internet developed and matured, JMX Brands lasered its focus to its DutchCrafters brand at dutchcrafters.com. DutchCrafters sold Amish-made products, mostly furniture that customers could customize with wood type, finish and hardware options. The furniture was built to the customer’s specifications after the order was placed and shipped directly to their home. This brought one-of-a-kind, heirloom-quality, solid-wood furniture to anyone in the United States. The company weathered the ups and downs of Google algorithm changes, such as the Panda and Penguin updates, which wreaked havoc for companies relying on Google search placements for their business. The company expanded its advertising activities and professionalized its SEO. This brought steady revenue growth for several years and put the company on the Inc. 5000 list

This page: Jim Miller, CEO/ Co-Owner of JMX Brands. Dutchcrafters offers furniture built to the customer’s specifications.

for six years and the Gulf Coast 500 list for seven years. In 2013, the company saw 100% growth over 2012. By 2015, the company had revenues of $7.8 million annually and was renting extra office space for its growing team of employees.

ADULT YEARS

Though an ecommerce business for more than 10 years, Jim and Linse saw the potential in moving from “clicks to bricks” and had long dreamed of opening a brickand-mortar store that could serve customers seeking the personalized experience of in person shopping with access to the many products on the website. In 2015, the company purchased a property at 3709 N. Lockwood Ridge Road in Sarasota with retail space on the first floor and office space for the headquarters on the second floor. This expanded the company from solely ecommerce to a multi-channel company, but also changed some focus from nationwide to local to promote the store to the local community. The success of the Sarasota Showroom led to opening a warehouse and outlet store in LaGrange, Indiana in 2020 and another showroom in Alpharetta, Georgia in 2022. Another expansion was in deliveries. JMX Brands had long partnered with specialty shippers that blanket wrap and deliver Amish-made products. To control costs and enhance the customer experience, the company added an in-house delivery team in 2020, which has expanded to four trucks and six drivers.

MID-LIFE CRISIS

The most significant mid-life crisis for the company occurred with the pandemic. In the matter of a couple of days, the company moved its entire staff from working in the office to working from home, closed the Sarasota Showroom and adjusted to remote work. As a company based in technology, the transition to remote work went smoothly. The company then prepared for what looked like what would be an economic downturn. Instead, it experienced the opposite challenge. The internet became the primary location to shop, and people were spending much more time in their homes. Shopping online to freshen up the space that had become their refuge brought many customers to DutchCrafters, due to its high Google search placements. Sales skyrocketed and company staff scrambled to manage

the workload while handling the personal challenges of the pandemic. JMX employees hired remotely, trained remotely, and tried to stay connected remotely. They stayed focused on providing the best service for their customers even while woodshops struggled to stay open and supply chains were disrupted. The company ended 2020 with $18.1 million in revenue, up 53% over 2019. 2021 produced $23.8 million in revenue.

GOLDEN YEARS

In 2023, JMX Brands is celebrating its 20th anniversary. The company’s employees are focusing on their vision to provide exceptional customer experience. They plan to open another DutchCrafters Showroom in 2023, continuing to expand the destination showrooms to other areas in the country. They also plan to give additional attention to their other brand, Eco Friendly Digs at ecofriendlydigs.com, which sells highquality sustainable home furnishings.

SECRET SAUCE

The Secret Sauce for JMX Brands combines several unique gifts, bringing to the table a new kind of team and new formula for successfully becoming a disruptor in the field of marketing Amish-made products online. Starting out with their share of doubts about offering the ecommerce model to Amish woodworkers, Jim and Linse accepted the challenge and leaned into their goals. If it were easy, everyone would be doing it. They carved out their niche, undaunted by naysayers who could not envision the unlikely partnerships leading to success. Jim and Linse were familiar with the Amish/Mennonite culture, traditions, work ethic and the high quality of the artistry seen in the products created. That background continues to be a major ingredient in the Secret Sauce of JMX Brands. They have been able to bridge the gap between low-technology Amish communication and ecommerce.

Sustainability is another vital ingredient in JMX Brands’ Special Sauce. Jim and Linse share with many woodworkers a reverence

Right: Rogan Donelly, President and CEO, Tervis Tumbler. Photo courtesy of Tervis.

for the forests and a commitment to the sustainable harvesting of fine hardwoods. DutchCrafters pays for a new tree to be planted in America for every order placed. The objective is to keep the forests growing along with the business. JMX Brands’ positive corporate culture drives the business forward with plenty of staff encouragement, recognition, rewards and awards for demonstrated achievements. The company gives out two awards each quarter for staff who exemplify the company’s values or made an achievement that has had a positive effect on the company’s bottom line. There is an annual awards ceremony where a number of awards are given. The company schedules a Spirit Day each month to celebrate company culture. Ongoing support for continued learning and growth sharpens skills across all teams.

IN THREE WORDS, DUTCHCRAFTERS

IS: Innovative. Authentic. Sustainable.

INGREDIENT THAT MOST DEFINES US? Heirloom-quality hand-picked products with exceptional service.

WHAT MADE SARASOTA A GREAT PLACE TO GROW JMX BRANDS?

Sarasota, which is the headquarters of JMX Brands, has a been welcoming and successful place to start and grow this ecommerce business. The picturesque, sunlit location by the sea, with plenty of arts, entertainment and year-round outdoor activities, attracts visitors and residents from all over the world. The desirable setting provides a talented employee pool. From the beginning, supportive agencies such as The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, Manatee Chamber of Commerce and the Sarasota County Economic Development Corporation have been wise and welcoming advisors and business partners for the JMX Brands team. Niche retailer JMX Brands sells more than 15,000 products on a variety of websites, including its flagship Amish furniture site. It also has DutchCrafters Showrooms in Sarasota, FL and Alpharetta, GA and an outlet store in LaGrange, IN.

JMX Brands was a 2016 Florida Company to Watch and the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce’s 2017 Retail Business of the Year and 2021 Medium Business of the Year. Recent growth JMX Brands has achieved since its founding includes being named one of the Top Places to Work in Sarasota-Manatee for 2020, 2021 and 2022, and Best Places to Work by Furniture Today magazine for 2021 and 2022.

TERVIS TUMBLER

Tervis is a third-generation American-owned-and-operated company, renowned for the durable construction of its drinkware, the timelessness of its decorations and designs and the insulation qualities which have stood the test of time.

SHARE YOUR ORIGIN STORY.

It all began with Jake Winslow. Entrepreneur John C. “Jake” Winslow (c1914-1983) loved the outdoors. He made a name for himself supplying outdoor leisure lovers with marine, hunting, and sporting goods. He knew firsthand how hard it was to keep drinks cold and hands dry while enjoying leisure activities in the sun. He sought a solution to this problem to benefit boaters, golfers, tennis players and others like him who valued their well-earned leisure time. He discovered the work of Frank Cotter and G. Howlett Davis, who in 1946 created the world’s first permanently sealed, double-walled, insulated tumbler. Combining syllables of their last names, the two engineers called this dependable, leisure-friendly drinkware “Tervis.” Winslow purchased the rights to this revolutionary drinkware and began manufacturing it in Florida in 1967, selling tumblers from dock to dock, from fairway to fairway, and in outlet stores connected to the Tervis manufacturing facilities. In his over two decades at the helm, Jake Winslow made Tervis tumblers a beloved part of the Florida coastal experience by focusing on three things: high quality, customization options and a lifetime guarantee.

FUN FACT

As a “teenage” company, we used pizza ovens to heat materials prior to molding the insulated layers needed to keep drinks cold (or hot) and hands dry. Today, proprietary ultrasonic welding techniques permanently seal our classic tumblers and water bottles.

THE NEXT GENERATION: UNPRECEDENTED GROWTH

A few years after Winslow’s passing, his widow Mary Alice Amory Winslow approached her son-in-law Norbert Donelly

and asked if he’d be interested in helping out for a few weeks. Those few weeks marked the transition of Tervis to second-generation leadership. To his father-in-law’s foundation of “quality, customization and a lifetime guarantee,” Donelly added another promise: rapid delivery. He instilled a sense of trust among employees, encouraged creative thinking, accepted intelligent failures, and always recognized achievement and innovation. Those four precepts, a talent for hiring the right people into the right positions and a strong company culture led to unprecedented growth for the company: When Donelly began his tenure at Tervis, the company employed 20 people and sold tumblers in three Florida outlet stores; when he stepped down in 2016 to pass the company’s leadership to his son, Tervis employed hundreds, operated multiple branded retail locations and had shelf space in the country’s best-known sporting goods and specialty stores, and high-end hotels and resorts. Of his time leading the company, Norbert said “I never worked to build the biggest company, just the best, our growth was the organic result of that.”

A ‘MIDLIFE CRISIS’ AVERTED

Rogan Donelly (Norbert’s son and Jake’s grandson) literally grew up in the business. As he says, “At home, I’d hear about Tervis from breakfast to dinnertime and as a kid I never knew anyone else made drinkware!” His childhood handprint was even memorialized in the concrete of the Osprey, FL Tervis store. When he was officially named president in 2016, the company that his grandfather built around an innovative product, and that his father grew through adept management and expanded distribution, faced a new challenge, a potential “midlife crisis”: Customers wanted more options for on-the-go hydration. Rogan was up for the challenge, spearheading the introduction of a stainless steel product line to accompany our iconic classic tumbler and water bottle. In his words, “We put the Tervis touch on stainless steel: highquality standards, hundreds of designs and customization options and quick delivery... resulting in triple-insulated stainless steel tumblers and water bottles with the best decoration capabilities on the market.”

Having averted a “crisis” and expanded the Tervis portfolio of products, today, Rogan leads a company beloved for decades as

a classic American leisure brand. And it all began with the vision of John C. “Jake” Winslow, whose spirit and legacy live on through the brand.

THE GOLDEN YEARS ARE JUST BEGINNING

From an infant business born of one man’s vision to a national presence known for quality and innovation, Tervis today is a third-generation American-ownedand -operated company, renowned for the durable construction of its drinkware, the timelessness of its decorations and designs and the insulation qualities which have stood the test of time. And we believe that our “golden years” are just beginning. We are proud to be a solid player in the industry that started when the first Tervis tumbler was made in 1946, and we will continue to listen to consumers so that we can provide solutions with our innovative drinkware further into (and hopefully beyond!) the 21st century. Our goal is to produce insulated drinkware that meets the ever-evolving needs of our customers so that when the next round of consumer needs is identified, we are already there with a product to meet them. We started 2023 by launching new Traveler Tumblers made with our trademarked DuraPrint™ technology, and we will continue to develop features that bring the most benefits to our customers –for this generation and the next.

SECRET SAUCE

It’s like the famous, funny, fast food meme that says, “Our secret ingredient is our people.” But when we say it, it’s not a joke about what’s in your burger; it’s a proven element of our success. The WinslowDonelly family has created an enviable work environment, one which makes people excited to apply, thrilled to be hired and engaged while working.

HOW WE DRIVE THE PRODUCT LINE

Our recipe for designing, honing and evolving the line is simple and straightforward: it starts and ends with the consumer. We identify who they are and what they want and need in a product. Next, we innovate to ensure meeting those needs and wants as they evolve.

IN THREE WORDS, TERVIS IS Made to last.

A PERFECT FIT

The Sarasota area is a perfect fit for Tervis because its literal climate (as well as its spirit) suits our classic American leisure brand. A Tervis tumbler represents a day on the water, a gathering with friends and family, sun and sand and surf, a well-earned day of golf. The Sunshine State has an infrastructure and business environment that is highly conducive to a business like ours.

PGTI

For nearly 40 years, PGTI has been driven to create the strongest, safest building products on the market, with a resolute focus on always putting the customer first. Throughout the years, they’ve developed a community centered around integrity, safety, innovation and sustainable growth.

SHARE YOUR ORIGIN STORY.

PGT Innovations manufactures and supplies premium windows, doors and garage doors and we hold the leadership position in our primary market. PGTI’s story started in 1980 when our founders Paul Hostetler and Rod Hershberger drew a vinyl porch enclosure product on a napkin. Shortly after, the two opened the VinylTech business in Venice, FL and began producing that product with three employees. That product is still sold today as PGTI’s Eze-Breeze brand. From the very beginning of PGT Innovations, our team has strongly believed in keeping its promises to customers no matter what. Around the company’s fourth year, a customer’s order didn’t make it on the delivery truck, and VinylTech was going to have its first ever backorder. Demonstrating VinylTech’s dedication to serving its customers and keeping its word, Rod and Paul hired a plane and had the order flown across the state to ensure the products arrived on the day they promised.

Another memorable story from the early days was when one of our delivery driver’s trucks broke down with three deliveries left for the day. Our team member called a tow truck company, but before having his truck towed back to the manufacturing plant for repairs, he asked the tow truck driver to tow the disabled

delivery truck to the rest of the locations on his route so he could deliver the products on-time to our customers. Today, PGT Innovations trades on the NYSE, employs approximately 5,600 team members across the U.S., produces hundreds of products that unify indoor and outdoor living spaces, and has a legacy of being the leading impact-resistant window and door manufacturer in the nation.

TODDLER YEARS

After being in business for a few years and consistently demonstrating our commitment to customers by going above and beyond to meet delivery deadlines, VinylTech grew substantially, requiring us to expand our operations to a larger facility and subsequently open a second facility. Recognizing the growing need within the Florida market for a reliable window supplier, VinylTech established a new division within the company known as Progressive Glass Technology (PGT) to manufacture windows and doors.

TEENAGE YEARS

For two years following the destruction of Hurricane Andrew in 1992, our PGT team demonstrated our commitment to serving our industry by working with Miami-Dade County building officials to establish a tougher South Florida Building Code. This code improved roofing standards, mandated impact-resistant windows, doors, and hurricane shutters and would later go on to be adopted statewide in 2002 as the Florida Building Code. Shortly after our collaborative work on the building code, PGT launched its first aluminum impact-resistant window in 1994, providing weather, intruder and sound protection to homeowners and establishing our company’s reputation as a leader in the window and door industry. From there, PGT experienced substantial growth that allowed us to build a new headquarters and manufacturing facility in North Venice in 1995, where we celebrated 15 years of service with our 650 team members.

ADULT YEARS

As PGT continued to grow, our team recognized the need to have more control over the window production process, so we added our first glass plant to our North Venice location. Over the next several years, PGT underwent great transformation, as co-founder Paul Hostetler retired and Rod

Hershberger was promoted to President and Chief Executive Officer. PGT’s ownership also moved between two private equity firms, allowing us to experience substantial growth. With the focus of moving PGT to the next level, Rod Hershberger (CEO), Jeff Jackson (CFO) and Debbie LaPinska (VP of Sales & Marketing) completed a three-week road show and took PGT Industries public on the NASDAQ stock exchange as PGTI at $14.00 per share. We continued strengthening our industry leader position when PGT launched WinGuard® Vinyl – our company’s first line of vinyl impact window and door products.

MID-LIFE CRISIS

After surviving the Great Housing Recession from 2008 to 2012, big changes started happening within PGT around the 23year mark. PGT became a fully independent publicly traded company when JLL Partners divested its 6,300,000 shares of PGTI stock. Jeff Jackson was promoted to president and chief operating officer, marking the beginning of our company’s leadership succession. It was at this time we began our acquisition growth strategy. PGT acquired CGI, combining two successful companies committed to serving the impact-resistant window and door industry and further advancing our leadership position in our industry. In that same year, we added a second glass facility to our North Venice campus, expanding our glass cutting, tempering and laminating processes and boosting quality control. Over the next two years, we continued our growth through acquisitions. In 2016, PGT acquired WinDoor, diversifying and broadening our brand and product portfolio with the addition of the luxury brand. On the heels of that acquisition, we acquired U.S. Impact (later renamed CGI Commercial and structured as a division of the CGI brand), supporting our expansion into the commercial market by adding capabilities such as fabricating and glazing window and door frames for commercial products.

THE GOLDEN YEARS

In 2018, Rod Hershberger retired, and Jeff Jackson was promoted to President and Chief Executive Officer with the focus of continuing our company’s legacy of deep customer relationships and accelerating the innovation that PGTI’s customers need and expect. With innovation at the heart of our company’s

mission, PGT Industries changed our name to PGT Innovations (PGTI) and was established as a parent company. At that time, the PGT Innovations family of brands included CGI, PGT and WinDoor. As a reflection of the changes being made within our organization to expand opportunities for growth and increase value for shareholders, PGTI moved from NASDAQ to NYSE. Supporting our company’s strategic initiative to attract talented, hardworking leaders and offer benefits to help team members succeed, the PGT Innovations Leading Ladies program was created to empower the women of PGTI through mentorship to learn, encourage and celebrate accomplishments. We also established our “Inspire the Future” Scholarship Program to provide secondary education funds to the dependents of our team members.

SECRET SAUCE

The company culture necessary to make that happen is about togetherness. We know that to achieve greatness, we need to work as a team with an outward mindset. Every day, we look for opportunities to grow and achieve greatness together. This isn’t an “everyone for themselves” environment. We look out for each other. We help each other. We prop

each other up during challenging times because inventing, building and delivering the future of building products is not a oneperson job. It takes all of us. Our collaborative group. Our understanding family. Our strong team. Working together to inspire greater opportunity for our customers, our community, and our team members.

IN THREE WORDS, PGTI IS Serving. Leading. Thriving.

OUR DEFINING INGREDIENT IS Family.

WHAT MADE SARASOTA A GREAT PLACE TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS?

The company’s strong roots here derive from a solid business environment in Sarasota County and a quality of life that is unlike any other location. Operating in Florida and Sarasota provides our firm with a favorable and pro-business atmosphere that allows us to thrive with community support and a robust labor force. Besides all that, we live in paradise! From the weather to the toprated schools to the world-class beaches and abundant amenities for people of all ages, there is no place we would rather operate our corporate headquarters. SRQ

Right: Jeff Jackson, President and CEO, PGTI.

Clockwise left to right: Marissa Rossnagle, Matthew Tympanick, Christian Daum, Hallie Harris, Jessie Bonner, Joseph “JT” Grano, III and Olivia D’amico; Thomas Gayer IV, Jackie O’Shaughnessy, Julia Groom, Brandon Thrift Melissa Beachy, Stephanie Lomazov and Danae DeShazer; Connor Wolfe, Sarah Lyons, Brian Goodrich, Sydney Johnson, Claire Craigmile, Matthew Kern and Chloe Conboy; Jordan Sebastiano, Arianne Kopacz, Javar Baity, Ross Johnston, Brittany Lamont, Kate De Michieli and Shylynn Gamble-Puckett; Connor Wolfe, Sarah Lyons, Brian Goodrich, Sydney Johnson, Claire Craigmile, Matthew Kern and Chloe Conboy; and Candice Henry, Kayla Murphy, Jerty “Evan” Samson, Amanda Parrish, Danielle Visone, Carlos Portillo and Ashley Waite.

JAVAR BAITY

MARKETING DIRECTOR, TAKE STOCK IN CHILDREN OF MANATEE

MELISSA BEACHY MEDICAL DIRECTOR & MASTER INJECTOR, GLOW DERMSPA, ARSENAULT DERMATOLOGY

JESSIE BONNER REALTOR, SARABAY REAL ESTATE

CHLOE CONBOY DEPUTY DISTRICT DIRECTOR, CONGRESSMAN VERN BUCHANAN (FL-16)

CLAIRE CRAIGMILE

PROJECT COORDINATION SUPERVISOR, SARASOTA COUNTY GOVERNMENT

OLIVIA D’AMICO FOUNDER, FRIENDLY CITY FOUNDATION + KINSPOKE

CHRISTIAN DAUM CO-OWNER, XCELLERATION DETAILING

KATE DE MICHIELI DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS, ONE EIGHT OH PR

DANAE DESHAZER

DIRECTOR OF BRAND STRATEGY, SOKOS SOLUTIONS

SHYLYNN GAMBLE PUCKETT FINANCIAL CENTER MANAGER, OFFICER, FIFTH THIRD BANK

THOMAS GAYER IV FINANCIAL ADVISOR, JANNEY-SARASOTA

BRIAN GOODRICH SHAREHOLDER, BENTLEY GOODRICH KISON, P.A.

CHLOE CONBOY

DEPUTY DISTRICT DIRECTOR, CONGRESSMAN VERN BUCHANAN (FL-16)

How did you make your start in your profession and what aspect of your work do you find the most meaningful? Unlike most families, politics was always a topic of discussion at the dinner table with my father. He started working for an elected official when he was 26, so I guess a career in politics & government is in my blood. I caught the political bug while working at ABC7 WWSB in Sarasota when I worked with TV Anchor Alan Cohn (who is now running for Congress) and assisted him in covering the 2016 elections—that’s where I met Congressman Buchanan and his team. The most meaningful part of my job is helping constituents resolve their problems when dealing with the federal govern-

JOSEPH (JT) GRANO III

VICE PRESIDENT, DIGITAL MARKETING, NEXT-MARK

JULIA GROOM DIRECTOR, DREAMLARGE

HALLIE HARRIS DIRECTOR OF BRAND PARTNERSHIPS, AG CREATIVE

CANDICE HENRY CO-FOUNDER, ARETIOS

SYDNEY JOHNSON DIRECTOR OF MARKETING, CRESCENT HOTELS AND RESORTS/THE SARASOTA MODERN

ROSS JOHNSTON MANAGER OF VISITOR ENGAGEMENT, MARIE SELBY BOTANICAL GARDENS

MATTHEW KERN FINANCIAL CENTER LEADER, HANCOCK WHITNEY

ARIANNE KOPACZ

MENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST, CHILDREN FIRST

BRITTANY LAMONT CEO/PRESIDENT, LAKEWOOD RANCH BUSINESS ALLIANCE

STEPHANIE LOMAZOV LEAD SPEECH PATHOLOGIST, NEURO SPEECH THERAPY

SARAH LYONS SARASOTA STUDIO DIRECTOR, WANNEMACHER JENSEN ARCHITECTS

KAYLA MURPHY CLINIC MANAGER, ANIMAL RESCUE COALITION

JACQUELYN O’SHAUGHNESSY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, HARBORCHASE

ment bureaucracy. Not many people get to say they have their “dream job” but working for a member of Congress like Vern and serving the residents in my hometown is definitely mine.

Share something you did this past year to balance your work and personal life. This year after the primary election in August I traveled to Norway, Sweden & Denmark. I definitely struggle with being able to “un-plug” so by traveling overseas and not having service definitely forces me to stay off my phone and be present. I’ve travelled to over 30 countries and I’m already thinking about which country I want to go to next.

Share with us a current topic or trend that you are concerned about at the local level? The opioid crisis is something that definitely weighs on my heart and is still very prevalent in our community.

AMANDA PARRISH

PARTNER, COO, FAWLEY BRYANT ARCHITECTURE

CARLOS PORTILLO JUVENILE JUSTICE DIRECTOR, YOUTH FOR CHRIST

MARISSA ROSSNAGLE VICE PRESIDENT OF PHYSICIAN RELATIONS AND MARKETING, US EYE

JERTY EVAN SAMSON

INTEGRATED MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER, DMSI DIVERSIFIED MATERIAL SPECIALISTS INC

JORDAN SEBASTIANO

REALTOR, SARABAY REAL ESTATE

BRANDON THRIFT ARTIST, SPREAD LOVE - SARASOTA

MATTHEW TYMPANICK FOUNDER & PRINCIPAL, TYMPANICK LAW, P.A.

DANIELLE VISONE DIRECTOR, TIDEWELL HOSPICE BLUE BUTTERFLY FAMILY GRIEF CENTER

ASHLEY WAITE DIRECTOR OF MUSEUM EXPERIENCE, THE BISHOP MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND NATURE

DR. CONNOR WOLFE CHIROPRACTOR, THE WELLNESS WAY - SARASOTA

This crisis destroys families and puts an enormous burden on our medical and law enforcement personnel. Manatee County was once the epicenter of the opioid epidemic, and we don’t want to have that title again. That’s why it’s so important we continue to raise awareness about the opioid epidemic to keep our local neighborhoods healthy and safe.

How do you spend your time outside of work? I spend most of my time outside of work taking classes at Pure Barre, spending time with family & friends, drinking way too much iced coffee, religiously listening to any Taylor Swift song, (I’m a huge Swiftie) and constantly checking out new books at the Manatee County Public Library.

What is your guilty pleasure? Sleeping in until noon on the weekends. I always wish I was a morning person, but I’m 100% a night owl.

PRESENTING SPONSOR

What’s the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done? Disclaimer: This was completely out of character for me and it was a very long time ago. When driving to the mall with a friend, we decided to make a stop at the Sarasota-Bradenton Airport and go skydiving.

CLAIRE CRAIGMILE

PROJECT COORDINATION SUPERVISOR, SARASOTA COUNTY GOVERNMENT

How did you make your start in your profession and what aspect of your work do you find the most meaningful? I began my career as a reporter for the Bradenton Herald, covering local government events and I quickly fell in love with local government and the impact these organizations make within a community. During Hurricane Irma, the COVID-19 pandemic, and throughout Hurricane Ian I have implemented communicative strategies to keep our community informed. Hurricane Ian proved that we are truly making a difference in our community and serving as a lifeline to ensure the welfare of Sarasota County residents.

How do you spend time outside of work? I love family time. Whether that be swimming in our pool or exploring some of our county’s beautiful parks and preserves. While it has been more than a year since we last kayaked due to pregnancy and the birth of my daughter, I enjoy getting out on the water with my husband and our three-legged puggle, Tripp, exploring new waterways. Now that the weather is getting cooler and my daughter is older and can sit up by herself, I am excited to share these experiences with her.

What is your guilty pleasure? I am a huge Taylor Swift fan, or Swiftie. I remember the first time I saw her perform was at an outdoor festival where she was the opening act—how things have changed! Taylor Swift’s music is a form of therapy for me, and it is my go-to listen when I am in a good mood or have had a rough day and need a mood boost. In the six and a half years I’ve been with my husband, I managed to convert him to be a fan and we may have been considering the name Taylor for our daughter’s name.

What’s the most unexpected lesson you’ve learned during the pandemic? I operate and perform my best when I am under pressure—I like to think it is my journalism background and the adrenaline rush a looming deadline gives. During the pandemic, it allowed me to really understand the importance of the work-life balance and self care. While working remote often means work blending into the evening hours, I am fortunate to have learned this lesson as now with my daughter, who

was born in April, I value the hours I have with her after work and really focus and put a conscious effort into the work-life balance.

THOMAS GAYER IV

FINANCIAL ADVISOR, JANNEY-SARASOTA

Share a recent achievement for which you are the most proud. I was recently named as one of the Top 100 Financial Advisors in the Country to Watch ranking by Advisor Hub! I’m very proud that my hard work and dedication to my clients is recognized. In 2021, I welcomed my daughter, Penelope, into the world which was one of my proudest moments.

What is your formula for success? Not making the same mistake twice.

What are the top three items on your bucket list? Live on a house boat for a year, spend a year in Asia, own a house in South America.

Share with us a current topic or trend that you are concerned about at the local level? Behavioral finance is probably the most important topic in my industry, and I believe it needs to be addressed and taught at the high school level.

AMANDA PARRISH

PARTNER,

COO, FAWLEY BRYANT ARCHITECTURE

How and when did you know you wanted to be a leader in your field? I think leadership falls upon everyone at some point in their professional journey. It can happen in big moments, small moments, or when you least expect it. Whenever it happens, though, you can choose to embrace and cultivate the opportunity or walk away from it. I’ve never had that “ah-ha” moment where I decided to be a leader. I simply reacted with passion, positivity, and authentic communication when situations were thrown at me. I don’t turn down a challenge, and I stand behind my word. I work hard, strive to elevate those around me, and truly believe in the power of people. I don’t see myself as a leader in any field but as an advocate for bringing humanity back into the workplace.

What mistake in your career taught you the biggest lesson? As a peacekeeper, I struggle with my natural impulse to avoid conflict. Most of the time, as I reflect on a mistake I’ve made or an outcome I am unhappy with, it’s because I’ve let a louder voice or more confident person trump my stance and/ or efforts on a project. I seem to second-guess my abilities and, more often than not, forego my gut instinct for “group think.” With the help of excel-

lent mentors, I’m learning to believe in myself and acknowledge the value my perspective brings. No one is always right, but sometimes (I’m learning), I may have the best solution/idea/direction.

What is your favorite dish to order for delivery? Taco Bell! (Seriously so happy they brought back the Mexican Pizza.)

What is your formula for success? ((clear vision + the right people) – ego)) * ruthless positivity = success

MATTHEW TYMPANICK

FOUNDER & PRINCIPAL, TYMPANICK LAW, P.A.

How did you make your start in your profession? I started as a prosecutor in Manatee County. I tried 39 jury and non-jury trials in over 3 years working as a prosecutor including countless felonies. I found working with domestic violence victims incredibly rewarding.

Share a recent achievement for which you are the most proud. I tried a high profile complex dog shooting trial with only two months prep which was aired around the world.

Share with us a current topic or trend that you are concerned about at the local level? How we deal with mental illness in our criminal justice system. We do not do enough to try to fix it.

What is the first job you’ve ever held? Fry Cook at a local seafood restaurant.

What’s your favorite podcast or YouTube channel? Conduct Detrimental. I am a bit biased because I write for them as well as often appear as a guest discussing sports criminal law issues.

What is your guilty pleasure? Hallmark Christmas Movies. I know how each of them are going to end but they still bring a smile to my wife’s and my face every time we watch.

If you could ask someone any question in the world (living or the past), who would the person be and what would your question be? Teddy Roosevelt. I am a huge national park buff. I would ask him what his favorite national park is.

What movie, show or cartoon character would you like to play in real life and why? Lt. Daniel Kaffee (Tom Cruise in A Few Good Men). I must have watched that movie five hundred times in my life. I based by own trial moves on his from the final confrontation with Colonel Nathan Jessup (Jack Nicholson). A little secret is I often slip quotes from the movies in my real openings and closings. SRQ

WELCOME

The Sarasota and Bradenton Area region is home to a robust cadre of legal minds. As part of the annual SRQ Magazine Elite Top Attorneys program, we invited attorneys from Anna Maria and Lakewood Ranch down through Downtown Sarasota, Venice and North Port to nominate the peers who had garnered their utmost respect—whether on the same or opposite side of the negotiating table—and they answered. The respect of one’s peers, especially in the discerning legal profession, reflects a defining level of great achievement. We are humbled by the overwhelming number of thoughtful nominations we received from this community of professionals this year and are pleased to share the results with you, our readers.

In SRQ Magazine’s 2022 Elite Top Attorneys Legal Guide and awards section you will meet this year’s honorees whose skills have helped their clients realize their goals. Many of our honorees share their expertise with the community as noted by their philanthropic and leadership contributions. The legal profession is part of a proud and long lineage that has been vital in establishing our modern world. The quality of a society can be judged in part by the measure of fairness manifested in how individuals are treated by our system of laws. Conscientious and skilled litigators are the reliable engines of our legal system, and the smart, skilled men and women represented in this peer-review program ensure the inevitable conflicts of human life can be dealt with in a manner that is equitable and honest. We hope you enjoy meeting SRQ Magazine’s 2022 Elite Top Attorneys—congratulations are in order.

COURTNEY FLANDREAU

HONOREE | Personal Injury

CONTACT 889 N Washington Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34236 941.952.1682 | courtney@mallardperez.com | mallardperez.com

Tell us about yourself and your firm. Courtney was excited to join Mallard Perez over the summer of 2021, where she will continue to represent the injured and hold wrongdoers accountable. She is dedicated to helping those who have been injured in an automobile accident, as the result of unsafe conditions at a store or restaurant, or due to medical malpractice. She also provides conscientious representation to the most vulnerable clients, including those injured as the result of child abuse or neglect, or mistreatment in a nursing home.

What distinguishes your work and your firm from others?

FLORIDA BAR DATE OF ADMISSION December 26, 2006

DEGREES

Albany Law School of Union University, 2004

PRACTICE AREAS

Motor Vehicle Accidents Slip and Fall/ Trip and Fall Cases Nursing Home Neglect Medical Malpractice Insurance

BIO

Courtney Flandreau has been a trial attorney for over fifteen years, representing both plainti s and defendants throughout Florida. Earlier in her career, Courtney served as senior sta attorney for one of the largest insurance companies in the country, representing hundreds of defendants in accident cases. She became a plainti ’s attorney in 2017 and now exclusively advocates for the wrongfully injured.

Courtney provides exceptional service to her clients, applying the knowledge she gained as a defense lawyer together with extensive trial experience, to help those who have been hurt due to the negligence of another. She is dedicated to providing personalized, e ective legal representation to her clients. Courtney leverages her skills and compassion for her clients to maximize settlements and win di cult trials against insurance companies.

Mallard Perez is a small firm with a big reputation for winning trials. Earlier this year, they won a $28 million verdict against DCF. This was a case most lawyers would have turned away, but not Mallard Perez. They knew they had to make things right for the victim. Unlike larger firms, they personally know their clients and the details of their individual cases, which is vital to their success. When they are not in the courtroom, they are busy giving back to the community. Courtney is involved with the Manatee River Rotary Club, her church and animal rescue.

LAW FIRM Mallard Perez, PLLC

FEATURED HONOREES

SECOND PRINTING Recognizing the attorneys in the region who garnered the respect of their professional peers as honorees for the 2022 Elite Top Attorneys Legal Guide.

BUSINESS LAW

Caswell, Christopher

Berlin Patten Ebling PLLC 3700 S Tamiami Trl | Ste 200 Sarasota FL 34239 941-954-9991 | 371211

CIVIL LAW LITIGATION

Gomez, Conrado Jr

Rising Stars

Berlin Patten Ebling PLLC 3700 S Tamiami Trl | Ste 200 Sarasota FL 34239 941-954-9991 | Lic. 1010973

Guarnieri, Daniel C

Berlin Patten Ebling PLLC 3700 S Tamiami Trl | Ste 200 Sarasota FL 34239 941-954-9991 | Lic. 914401

Schuchat, Michael E

Berlin Patten Ebling PLLC 3700 S Tamiami Trl | Ste 200 Sarasota FL 34239 941-954-9991 | Lic. 85382

CIVIL LAW

TRANSACTIONAL

Selvaraj, Natasha

Berlin Patten Ebling PLLC 3700 S Tamiami Trl | Ste 200 Sarasota FL 34239 941-954-9991 | Lic. 124513

McComb, William C

Berlin Patten Ebling PLLC 3700 S Tamiami Trl | Ste 200 Sarasota FL 34239 941-954-9991 | Lic. 87063

Ebling, Jamie Adam

Berlin Patten Ebling PLLC 3700 S Tamiami Trl | Ste 200 Sarasota FL 34239 941-954-9991 | Lic. 369284

CONSTRUCTION

Hanson, Erik M Shutts & Bowen LLP

1858 Ringling Blvd | Ste 300 Sarasota FL 34236 941-552-3774 | Lic. 98529

Rans, E Zachary Shutts & Bowen LLP

1858 Ringling Blvd | Ste 300 Sarasota FL 34236 941-552-3787 | Lic. 316740

Sanchez, Albert A Sanchez Law PLLC 2055 Wood St | Ste 220 Sarasota FL 34237-7931 941-366-0001 | Lic. 267953

CRIMINAL DEFENSE

Pouget, Andrew Fowler Law Group PA 2075 Main St | Ste 38 Sarasota FL 34237 941-404-8909 | Lic. 1013551

Fowler, James A Jr Fowler Law Group PA 2075 Main St | Ste 38 Sarasota FL 34237-6031 941-404-8909 | Lic. 55830

FAMILY LAW

Boeller, Sara Sawyer Boeller Law PA 2190 S Tamiami Trl Venice FL 34293 941-315-8598 | Lic. 37190

LAND USE ENVIRONMENT

Colburn, Casey The Colburn Firm PL 7321 Merchant Ct | Ste A Lakewood Ranch FL 34240-8466 941-9286801 | Lic. 647551

PERSONAL INJURY Perez, Alan L Mallard Perez PLLC 889 N Washington Blvd Sarasota FL 34236 941-952-1682 | Lic. 60409

Mallard, Damian Mallard Perez PLLC 889 N Washington Blvd Sarasota FL 34236 941-952-1682 | Lic. 882348

Velado, Elizete Mallard Perez PLLC 889 N Washington Blvd Sarasota FL 3423 6 941-952-1682 | Lic. 99668

Walsh, Bernard F Shapiro Goldman Babboni Fernandez & Walsh 3550 S Tamiami Trl | Fl 3rd Sarasota FL 34239-6014 941-954-1234 | Lic. 263826

Fernandez, Stephen Shapiro Goldman Babboni Fernandez & Walsh 3550 S Tamiami Trl | Fl 3rd Sarasota FL 34239-6014 941-954-1234 | Lic. 723673

Gormley, Barbara H Barbara H Gormley PA 2831 Ringling Blvd | Ste 214E Sarasota FL 34237 941-366-1290 | Lic. 164747

Flandreau, Courtney Mallard Perez PLLC 889 N Washington Blvd Sarasota FL 34236 941-952-1682 | Lic. 32713

ELIZETE D. VELADO

HONOREE | Personal Injury

CONTACT 889 N Washington Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34236 941.952.1682 | elizete@mallardperez.com | mallardperez.com

Tell us about yourself and your firm. When I first decided to go to law school, I knew I wanted to pursue a legal practice that helped people. I graduated with honors from the Florida State University College of Law and went to work for a firm that sued insurance companies for acting in bad faith and failing to settle claims. I learned a great deal in those first three years of practice about the claims handling process, and from there, I decided I wanted to use my knowledge of the insurance and claim process to help people injured by another’s negligence.

FLORIDA BAR DATE OF ADMISSION September 27, 2012

DEGREES

Florida State University College of Law, with honors, 2012

PRACTICE AREAS

Personal Injury Litigation Nursing Home Negligence Medical Malpractice

BIO

A member of the Florida Bar since 2012, Elizete Velado has spent her entire legal career representing individuals and small businesses that have been disenfranchised or mistreated by an insurance company.

She continues this pursuit at Mallard Perez by protecting the legal rights of those who have been severely injured. An accomplished writer, she has been published in the Florida State University Journal of Transnational Law and several trade publications. Her litigation practice includes cases involving motor vehicle crashes, nursing home neglect, medical malpractice, and cases involving sexual assault or child abuse.

She works hard to secure the best outcome possible for her clients and is in the process of working toward board certification in Civil Trial Law.

What distinguishes your work and your firm from others? My firm is di erent from many other personal injury law firms in two ways. First, we do not advertise. Mallard Perez’s business model is based entirely on providing outstanding representation and on educating our clients throughout the process. So far, this has resulted in over 20 years of satisfied clients and exponential growth over the last two decades. Second, Mallard Perez attorneys bring 100 years of collective legal experience to the table. This, along with a long track record of multi-million-dollar trial verdicts, helps us resolve a vast majority of our cases for fair amounts without ever going to trial.

YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

10 years

LAW FIRM Mallard Perez, PLLC

FEATURED HONOREES

SECOND PRINTING Recognizing the attorneys in the region who garnered the respect of their professional peers as honorees for the 2022 Elite Top Attorneys Legal Guide.

PERSONAL INJURY cont.

Murphy, Daniel Goldman Babboni Fernandez & Walsh 3550 S Tamiami Trl | Fl 3rd Sarasota FL 34239-6014 941-954-1234 | Lic. 119576

Goldman, David L

Goldman Babboni Fernandez & Walsh 3550 S Tamiami Trl | Fl 3rd Sarasota FL 34239-6014 941-954-1234 | Lic. 724300

REAL ESTATE

Moretti, Mallory A Rising Stars Berlin Patten Ebling PLLC 3700 S Tamiami Trl | Ste 200 Sarasota FL 34239 941-954-9991 | Lic. 1008343

Van Duren, Jacob Rising Stars

Berlin Patten Ebling PLLC 3700 S Tamiami Trl | Ste 200 Sarasota FL 34239 941-954-9991 | Lic. 1026425

Christie, Nicole F Rising Stars

Williams Parker Attorneys at Law 200 S Orange Ave Sarasota FL 34236 941-552-2564 | Lic. 1003223

Currin, Peter T

Williams Parker Attorneys at Law 200 S Orange Ave Sarasota FL 34236 941-536-2030 | Lic. 190446

Conaboy, Andrew J

Berlin Patten Ebling PLLC 3700 S Tamiami Trl | Ste 200 Sarasota FL 34239 941-954-9991 | Lic. 114391

Kohl, Lauren P Gibson Kohl PL 1800 2nd St | Ste 901 Sarasota FL 34236-5997 941-365-1166 | Lic. 155829

Bauer, Mallory Berlin Patten Ebling PLLC 3700 S Tamiami Trl | Ste 200 Sarasota FL 34239 941-954-9991 | Lic. 1008343

Gibson, James D Gibson Kohl PL 1800 2nd St | Ste 717 Sarasota FL 34236-5966 941-362-8880 | Lic. 709069

Berlin, Evan N Berlin Patten Ebling PLLC 3700 S Tamiami Trl | Ste 200 Sarasota FL 34239 941-954-9991 | Lic. 980919

TAX LAW

Mayper, Matthew B Fergeson Skipper PA Attorneys At Law 1515 Ringling Blvd | 10th Fl Sarasota FL34236-6769 941-957-1900 | Lic. 956820

Fergeson, James O Jr Fergeson Skipper PA Attorneys At Law 1515 Ringling Blvd | Fl 10th Sarasota FL 34236-6769 941-957-1900 | Lic. 171298

WILLS

Burchett, Charla M Shutts & Bowen LLP 1858 Ringling Blvd | Ste 300 Sarasota FL 34236 941-552-3780 | Lic. 813230

Gans, Richard R Fergeson Skipper PA Attorneys At Law 1515 Ringling Blvd | Fl 10th Sarasota FL 34236-6769 941-957-1900 | Lic. 40878

Tullidge, Daniel L Fergeson Skipper PA Attorneys At Law 1515 Ringling Blvd | Fl 10th Sarasota FL 34236 941-957-1900 | Lic. 106749

Goethe, Jeffrey S Barnes Walker Goethe Perron & Shea PLLC 3119 Manatee Ave W Bradenton FL 34205-3350 941-741-8224 | Lic. 861420

Robinson, M Brandon Barnes Walker Goethe Perron & Shea PLLC 3119 Manatee Ave W Bradenton FL 34205-3350 941-741-8224 | Lic. 119364

CONTACT 2075 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34237 941.404.8909 | andrew@teamflg.com | thefowlerlawgroup.com

Tell us about yourself and your firm. Andrew graduated suma cum laude with a 4.0 GPA in the honors college of University of Detroit Mercy, boasting majors in philosophy, political science, and pre-law. A co-founder of Phi Alpha Delta, Andrew also served as President of the Political Science Association. In 2009 he graduated magna cum laude from Michigan State University College of Law, the only student to ever graduate with a concentration in criminal law while also receiving a certificate from the nationally renowned Geo rey Fieger Trial Practice Institute. Andrew was a public defender before joining the Fowler Law Group where he serves as senior partner.

BIO

Andrew Pouget is a lifelong student of the law and vigilant advocate for justice. He understands that success is earned by hard work, determination, quality legal research, and framing arguments with precision and articulation. His passion for law is the driving force that compels him to take the extra step, and he does not quit until he achieves the best possible result for his clients.

Since matriculating in 2018, Andrew has continued the firm’s legacy of providing high-quality criminal defense to Sarasota, Bradenton and Tampa. Andrew’s depth of legal knowledge and proficiency in legal writing provides an essential element to FLG’s comprehensive approach to criminal defense, and his aptitude for appellate practice sets FLG apart as a full-service criminal defense firm in the SRQ area.

What distinguishes your work and your firm from others?

The Fowler Law Group is a lowvolume, high-attention law firm that focuses on providing exceptional client service and proudly stands behind the firm’s motto: “Respect, Reputation, Protection.” The Fowler Law Group believes criminal defense is more than just getting results; it is about providing high caliber service along the way.

How do you represent, protect and support your clients?

Fowler Law Group o ers services for Criminal Defense, DUI Defense, Juvenile Criminal Defense, Speeding/ Tra c Tickets, Sealing and Expunging Criminal Records and Reversing Driver’s License Suspensions.

FLORIDA BAR

DATE OF ADMISSION December 26, 2018

DEGREES

• University of Detroit Mercy Suma Cum Laude. Majors in philosophy, political science, and pre-law.

• Detroit College of Law, Magna Cum Laude, Juris Doctorate. Certificates in Trial Practice and Criminal Law.

PRACTICE AREAS

DUI Defense Criminal Appeals Criminal Law

YEARS OF EXPERIENCE 15 years

LAW FIRM

Fowler Law Group, P.A.

CONTACT 3700 S. Tamiami Trl Ste 200, Sarasota, FL 34239 941.954.9991 | dguarnieri@berlinpatten.com | berlinpatten.com

In his spare time, Dan enjoys boating, fishing, SCUBA diving, traveling, and watching the Florida Gators. He has two small children and is told that he loves them very much.

FLORIDA

BAR DATE OF ADMISSION September 23, 2004

DEGREES

University of Florida, Fredric G. Levin College of Law, 2004

PRACTICE AREAS

Administrative Admiralty and Maritime Banking Business City/County/ Local Government Civil Litigation Commercial Litigation Contracts Real Estate Trial

LAW FIRM

Berlin Patten Ebling, PLLC

BIO

Dan Guarnieri has been practicing law since 2004. He is a partner in Berlin Patten Ebling’s Sarasota o ce, and manages the fi rm’s litigation group. He has broad-ranging civil experience including complex commercial litigation, real property disputes, contract disputes, construction litigation, commercial collections, commercial foreclosures and local government representation. He also has considerable experience in assisting clients with business entity formation, business transactions, regulatory and compliance counseling, and other business representation with an eye toward avoiding litigation. He represents commercial lenders, along with business owners in the telecommunications, security, construction, and manufacturing industries. He has been lead counsel on numerous cases that have been tried to judgment and has handled appeals in both state and federal courts.

Positioning Statement

Legal experts for life’s biggest occasions.

Testimonial

“Knowledgeable, professional and caring. As my sister is an attorney in another state, I’ve always had high expectations in legal representation, and have been fortunate to find good representation in the several states where we have lived. Having good counsel is very important, both to protect your interests and to smooth the way in important and high-value transactions. I researched carefully before choosing Berlin Patten Ebling, and have been very happy with my choice. Everyone at the firm is first rate and they have developed a culture of service and excellence. Highly recommended.”

CONTACT 1515 Ringling Blvd., 10 Floor, Sarasota, Florida 34236 941.957.1900 | rgans@fergusonskipper.com | FergesonSkipper.com

A fellow of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel, Gans is also an accomplished speaker and author, with a growing number of published and peer-respected works. His extensive record of accolades includes the Best Lawyers® in America list from 2010-2021 and 15 consecutive years as a Florida Super Lawyer®.

FLORIDA BAR DATE OF ADMISSION December 23, 1994

DEGREES

BA from Cornell University MA from the University of Michigan

JD from the University of Washington School of Law LLM in Taxation from the University of Florida College of Law

PRACTICE AREAS

BIO

A board-certified specialist in Wills, Trusts and Estates, Richard (Rick) Gans is president and shareholder with Fergeson, Skipper, PA, and brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to his clients . Gans has been part of Fergeson Skipper since 1994 and has an AV® Preeminent™ Peer Review Rating from Martindale-Hubbell, which is the highest rating available for an attorney’s legal ability and professional ethics.

Gans’ extensive educational background includes earning his BA from Cornell University, his MA from the University of Michigan and his JD from the University of Washington School of Law. Gans then went on to receive his LLM in Taxation from the University of Florida College of Law.

FL Real Estate Law: Title Examination, Title Issuance and Resolving Title Issues Land Acquisition and Construction Agreements Commercial and Residential Closings

LAW FIRM

Fergeson Skipper

Named a 2022 “Best Law Firm” by U.S. News Best Lawyers Tier 1 Sarasota: Tax, Trusts & Estates Law; Tier 2 Sarasota: Litigation, Trusts & Estates

BARBARA H. GORMLEY, ESQ. HONOREE | Personal Injury

CONTACT 2831 Ringling Blvd., Suite 214E, Sarasota, Florida 34237 941-366-1290 | barbara@barbarahgormleypa.com | barbarahgormleypa.com

FLORIDA BAR

DATE OF ADMISSION

April 16, 1999

All Florida State Courts and the Federal Middle District of Florida

PRACTICE AREAS

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Trucking Accidents

Motorcycle, Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents

Negligent Security resulting in injury Slip/Trip and Fall Accidents Nursing Home and ALF abuse

DEGREES

Juris Doctor, Nova Southeastern Shepard Broad Law Center

YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

24 AV Rated Eagle Member of the Florida Justice Association

LAW FIRM

Law Office of Barbara H. Gormley, P.A.

BIO

Over the last 23 years, attorney Barbara H. Gormley has proudly represented only individuals that have been injured as a result of the negligence of another. Ms. Gormley is rated “AV Preeminent” which is the highest level of peer rating and means that her peers, lawyers and judges, have ranked her at the highest level of professional excellence for her legal knowledge, communication skills and ethical standards. Ms. Gormley has provided the highest quality of legal services both inside and out of the courtroom since 1999 and is known for treating every case as if it is going to trial. She represents clients throughout the State of Florida.

Her practice involves personal injury, including serious and catastrophic injuries, wrongful death as a result of automobile and trucking accidents, pedestrians and bicyclists hit by a motor vehicle, motorcycle accidents, trip/slip and fall cases on commercial and residential properties, negligent security resulting in injury cases, as well as nursing home and assisted living facility abuse cases.

Tell us about yourself.

Juris Doctor Nova Southeastern University, Shepard Broad Law Center, Davie, Florida, Deans List Member of the Nova Southeastern University’s Moot Court Honor Society State Bar of Florida, Admitted 1999 U.S. District Court Middle District of Florida Florida Bar Association, Trial Lawyers Section Member Eagle Member of the Florida Justice Association Sarasota County Bar Association Martindale-Hubbell® AV Preeminent® Since 2014 to the present 2022

M. BRANDON ROBINSON, ESQ.

HONOREE | Wills

CONTACT 3119 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34205 brobinson@barneswalker.com 941- 741-8224 | barneswalker.com

BIO

M. Brandon Robinson’s legal career began combating consumer fraud while serving as the Elder Consumer Protection Fellow for Stetson University College of Law. After transitioning to private practice, Brandon became active in the local legal community by serving as a Director of the Manatee County Young Lawyers Division and a Member of the Florida Bar Military and Veterans A airs Committee. Brandon is a Department of Veterans A airs Accredited Attorney and a Marine Corps Combat Veteran.

Tell us about yourself and your firm. Brandon Robinson received his Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management from Hannibal-LaGrange University in 2011. Brandon earned his Juris Doctor and a Certificate of Concentration in Elder Law from Stetson University College of Law, graduating cum laude in 2015. Upon graduation, Brandon received the Matthew Bender Elder Law Book Award as well as the William F. Blew Pro Bono Service Award, having provided over 470 hours of pro bono services during law school. Brandon is licensed to practice in all Florida Courts as well as The United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida.

SARA BOELLER

7/22/22, 12:51 PM

CONTACT 2190 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice, FL 34293 941.800.4990 | saraboeller@boellerlaw.com |

BIO Sara Sawyer Boeller, Esq. is a respected family law attorney serving all of Sarasota, Venice, Manatee, Charlotte County and the surrounding areas. As a native of New Glarus, Wisconsin, Sara Boeller attended the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, where she earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology, with a minor in Political Science. Recognizing her passion for resolving complex legal situations within the family, she earned her Juris Doctorate degree from the prestigious Stetson University College of Law in St. Petersburg Florida. A Background That has Proven Instrumental to Family Law Cases. experience for her clients, Attorney Boeller went on to earn her Masters of Arts Degree in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from the University of South Florida. In 2013, Mrs. Boeller established Boeller Counseling, LLC, a full-service mental health counseling practice. With this extensive background, she is not only extremely experienced in litigating the very complex matters of family law in the courtroom, but she also provides a sympathetic, compassionate, and e ective approach to every family law matter. Her unique blend of skills provides clients with a more therapeutic transition throughout the legal process. Attorney Boeller began her legal career litigating family law matters at Gulfcoast Legal Aid in Sarasota, Florida. She then went on to practice exclusively in family law in the private sector. Attorney Boeller also strives to participate in volunteer activities related to family law including organizations such as the Guardian Ad Litem program.

PRACTICE

AREAS

Trust Probate Guardianship Veterans Disability DEGREES

• Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management, Hannibal-LaGrange University

• Juris Doctor & Certificate of Concentration in Elder Law Stetson University College of Law

LAW FIRM Barnes Walker, Goethe, Perron & Shea, PLLC

Sara Headshot.jpg

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science, University of Tampa on a full ROTC scholarship, in 1987. Attended Officer Basic School at Fort McClellan (1988). Juris Doctorate, Stetson University College of Law in 1990, Stanley Milledge Award. Retired from the US Army Reserves as Captain in 2000.

YEARS OF EXPERIENCE 31 years

LAW FIRM

Lutz, Bobo & Telfair Trial Lawyers

CASEY COLBURN

HONOREE | Land Use, Environmental Law

Mr. Colburn’s Florida-based boutique law practice is devoted to the acquisition, disposition and/or the redevelopment of real estate. Casey assists landowners with zoning and permitting, often in the retail shopping center, waterfront, hospitality and housing He helps property owners to ensure proper application of FEMA’s “50% Rule” and other environmental, wetland, protected species, dock and navigation regulations. He leads due diligence teams to assist investors, mergers, and fi nancing. Casey also participates in the development and implementation of environmental rules, cleanup actions, renewable energy technologies, ethical practices, and sustainable strategies. He has lectured about his experience with these topics. A significant part of his practice now involves co-counsel relationships with other lawyers and law fi rms from across the country. “Being brought in to assist a colleague with a valued client requires respect and confidence that I truly value, much like being recognized again this year by my talented local peers. Thank you, SRQ.”

CHARLES W. TELFAIR, IV

2 North Tamiami Trl. 5th Floor | Sarasota, Florida, 34236

and time to ensure the best possible outcome for his clients.

MISSION Lutz, Bobo & Telfair is an AV rated law firm, by Martindale Hubbell. This means that our peers have given us the highest rating for both ethics and legal ability. Here at Lutz, Bobo & Telfair we are privileged to work with you, and we are honored to share our experience with you. At Lutz, Bobo and Telfair we treat our clients the way we prefer to be treated.

ALBERT A. SANCHEZ, R. HONOREE

|

Business Litigation

CONTACT 2055 Wood Str. | Suite 220 | Sarasota, Fl 34237 941-366-0001 | Albert@sanchezlawfla.com | sanchezlawfla.com

Albert Sanchez obtained his undergraduate degree at the University of Florida with High Honors and his Juris Doctorate from UF where he was a Member and Editor of the UF Law Review. He has practiced law in Sarasota for over 30 years. During this period, from 1997-2012, he was also the managing partner of a real estate development and homebuilding company and a licensed contractor. This business experience has given him additional insight into how best to advise his clients when faced with a business, construction or real estate dispute. Mr. Sanchez is a member of the Florida Supreme Court Business and Contracts Jury Instruction Committee. Practice Areas: Business, Construction and Real Estate Litigation and Dispute Resolution.

About the firm. Sanchez Law provides legal advice in the resolution of business, construction and real estate disputes based on a two-step process. Initially, Mr. Sanchez performs with his client a thorough review and analysis of the facts relevant to the dispute and the law applicable to the dispute. Once this investigative analysis is performed and the client is advised of how di erent interpretations of applicable law might a ect his/her chances of success, discussions proceed to determine the best strategy for the client going forward. This approach seeks to assist the client in making sound decisions when weighing the costs, risks and rewards of a business, construction or real estate dispute.

PRACTICE AREAS

Business Litigation Construction Litigation Real Estate Litigation

DEGREES

Albert Sanchez obtained his undergraduate degree at the University of Florida with High Honors and his Juris Doctorate from UF where he was a Member and Editor of the UF Law Review.

YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

30+ years

LAW FIRM Sanchez Law, PLLC

METHODOLOGY

To create the list, the magazine contracted DataJoe Research to facilitate an online peer-voting process and Internet research process. DataJoe Research is a software and research company specializing in data collection and verification, and conducts various nominations across the United States on behalf of publishers. To create the list, DataJoe Research facilitated an online peer-voting process. DataJoe checked and confirmed that each published winner had, at time of review, a current, active license status with the appropriate state regulatory board. If we were not able to find evidence of a lawyer’s current, active registration with the state regulatory board, that lawyer was excluded from the list. In addition, we checked available public sources to identify lawyers disciplined for an infraction by the state regulatory board. These entities were excluded from the list. Finally, DataJoe presented the tallied result to the magazine for its final review and adjustments. FINAL NOTE: We recognize that there are many good lawyers who are not shown in this representative list. This is only a sampling of the huge array of talented professionals within the region. Inclusion in the list is based on the opinions of responding lawyers in the region. We take time and energy to ensure fair voting, although we understand that the results of this survey nomination and Internet research campaign are not an objective metric. We certainly do not discount the fact that many, many good and effective lawyers may not appear on the list. DISCLAIMERS: DataJoe uses best practices and exercises great care in assembling content for this list. DataJoe does not warrant that the data contained within the list are complete or accurate. DataJoe does not assume, and hereby disclaims, any liability to any person for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions herein whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. All rights reserved. No commercial use of the information in this list may be made without written permission from DataJoe. QUESTIONS: For research/ methodology questions, contact the research team at surveys@datajoe.com.

ACCESS TO LOW COST CAPITAL IS IMPORTANT FOR ANY BUSINESS ENTERPRISE. THIS IS ESPECIALLY TRUE FOR SMALL BUSINESSES. After serving as Chairman of the Small Business Council for the Manatee Chamber of Commerce and mentoring small business owners, Sherod Halliburton CEO of Financial Access Federal Credit Union has seen the demand up close. “I have been approached by business owners frustrated with their inability to access business capital. Many of these businesses have been operating for less than three years, funded their businesses on personal credit, have operational challenges, and/or need to borrow less than $100,000” states Halliburton. Financial Access in partnership with most of the area’s technical assistance providers is committed to filling the lending gap and serving as a bridge to traditional business lenders.

While Financial Access Federal Credit Union was founded as Tropicana Employees Federal Credit Union in 1958, it has grown and changed significantly while still celebrating its heritage. It now serves a larger field of membership and has expanded its geographic area. With $2 million in recent grants from the U.S. Treasury Department and a $1 million investment from Charter Communications, Financial Access can provide a more dynamic experience with upgraded technology, over 30,000 Fee-Free ATMs throughout the United States, and establishing a business lending program now available throughout the State of Florida. With improved technology, members and business owners can now easily conduct most of their business easily from the comfort of their homes and offices. Consumer loans are now offered for business purposes and business loans are available for up to $1 million.

SHEROD HALLIBURTON, CEO of Financial Access Federal Credit Union

Small businesses are the life blood of our community and Financial Access will help them build credit and financial capacity with its unique strategies while serving as a bridge to larger traditional business loans.

FINANCIAL ACCESS TO HELP YOU GROW YOUR BUSINESS BY INCREASING YOUR ACCESS TO CAPITAL.“

culture city

MISSION NEWWORK

Behind the scenes with new play development at Florida Studio Theatre. Dylan Campbell

“IF YOU DON’T HAVE NEW WORK YOU CAN ATROPHY AND DIE,” says Richard Hopkins, Producing Artistic Director and CEO of Florida Studio Theatre. “Or at the very least become less consequential.” Hopkins is speaking on FST’s New Play Development, which has long been the lifeblood of the theater company. Developing new plays, however, is about more than just bringing new plays to the stage. For FST, it’s about staying in front of the times and never falling behind – responding to the atmosphere of the era, creating a dialogue with audience members and keeping a finger on the pulse of American culture. “Our chief reason for developing new works is so we can speak to the moment of the day. We consider ourselves Sarasota’s contemporary theater and so we want to be doing the most up to date and relevant productions.”

It’s a responsibility that Hopkins shares amongst the staff at FST, most notably with Literary Manager Catherine Randazzo. “Shepherding new productions gives us a platform to discuss the things in our community that we want to see changed. It also creates a really good opportunity for us to do outreach as well,” says Randazzo. This season, FST is featuring three types of productions each resemblant of a different way that the company develops new plays: Babel by Jacqueline Goldfinger, Visit Joe Whitefeather (and bring the family!) by Bruce Graham, and their Winter Cabaret series, which is produced in-house by Hopkins and FST’s development team.

This page: Rachel Moulton and Duke Lafoon in staged reading of Babel as part of the NNPN Women in Playwriting Festival (2019). Photo Courtesy of FST. Opposite page: Ellie Mooney and Jack Gerhard in FST’s 2022 Burdick Reading Festival presentation of Visit Joe Whitefeather (and bring the family!) by Bruce Graham. Photo by FST.

Babel, which premiered on January 18th in FST’s Stage III Series – the section of their season devoted to more challenging and contemporary work – takes place in a not so unrealistic future where expectant parents can learn about the future behaviors and traits of their unborn children and explores the murky subject of modern eugenics. The company’s production of Babel is part of the National New Play Network’s Rolling World Premiere Program, an alliance of professional theaters that work together to create new plays, and exemplifies FST’s status as a Core Member Theater of the network.

“Babel was an idea that Jacqueline pitched us in 2017. We’d told her we were looking for a really strong play to address abortion but not head on. We liked it and had the chance to nominate her for NNPN’s Smith Prize for Political Theatre and she won,” says Randazzo. “We were awarded funding to help develop it so we did all the initial front end work with her: we brought her in for a residency and ran workshops, provided her with actors, dramaturgs, and our staff to work on the process and hear the script, and once it was ready to be shown, we did 2-3 different showings to test audiences to see if the play was moving in the right direction and how it spoke to our audience.”

“One of the great things about having a commission and starting a project with FST, is that, because you’re working with collaborators that are going to follow through till production with you, you can immediately begin creating a piece that is specific and unique to that theater and that theater space,” says playwright Jacqueline Goldfinger. “One of the reasons that Babel

features four characters is because we knew from the start that we wanted to produce it in the Stage III space. We thought about how we could tell the story the best that we could in this specific space.”

At the same time, Goldfinger was going through a similar process with other theaters in the NNPN interested in producing Babel. As part of the Rolling World Premiere Program, different versions of Babel were set to appear in four different productions over an 18-month period, the last of which was meant to be at FST in January of 2020. Due to the pandemic, however, Babel found itself pushed back until early 2023. “Although it’s premiered in several different productions around the country, the Stage III premiere is the one that I’ve been waiting on for three years now,” says Jackie. “I’m like a kid in a candy store. All of the ideas that Catherine and I have been discussing for over three years now are finally coming to fruition. I think that’s one of the reasons why FST is one of the primary developers of new work in the country–they understand what it takes to go from a very basic two page pitch through full production and they’re committed to every stage of the process, which is incredible because not many theaters do it that way.”

Although the COVID-19 pandemic pushed production back by three years, there are some unforeseen benefits. “Babel was written prior to the Supreme Court’s ruling on abortion and with that it takes on a whole other meaning. The story becomes a little less about the future of genetics and a little more current in its discussion of whether or not the government should be making choices over anyone’s body,” says Hopkins.

If the pandemic impacted FST’s production of Babel, then it deserves even more credit for the development of Bruce Graham’s Meet Joe Whitefeather. The comedy, which makes its world premiere on FST’s Winter Mainstage this April and focuses on a 1970s tourist trap town’s use of cultural appropriation to generate revenue, is a product of FST’s The Playwright Project. The artistic initiative, born out of the pandemic’s shutdown of production, commissioned 33 of the nation’s top writers to create new work for FST, many of which are still under development today. “We invited playwrights throughout the entire nation to submit pitches for us in the middle of the pandemic,” says Randazzo. “Bruce was one of the people that we took his pitch as is and developed on Zoom through multiple readings that culminated in a zoom reading, and finally got it onto a stage in front of a live audience last August.”

While developing Meet Joe Whitefeather virtually brought its own set of challenges, it also provided FST with insight on how to operate in the future. “It was difficult but there were pros and cons. Pros were that you saved a ton of money on resources. You could workshop it and get an idea of what it sounded

like with actors, but save a ton of money because you didn’t have to fly in the playwright and everybody else associated with the production,” says Randazzo.

“The downside is that what worked in a very small screen and quick paced atmosphere wouldn’t always translate well on a stage in front of a live audience. You had to be open to making that adjustment.”

“The good news is now that the pandemic is over, we can choose from what really worked for us, and now do a lot of the early development process over zoom. It saves significant money which allows us to do more new play development,” Hopkins adds.

The productions of FST’s Winter Cabaret series represent a truly in-house development strategy –

each of which are created by Hopkins and his fellow development staff at the theater. While the Cabaret series occupies a different genre and style than that of their narrative-driven productions, they still allow the company to interrogate various aspects of today’s culture. This is especially relevant in The 70s: More Than A Decade and A Place In The Sun: A Tribute To Stevie Wonder. “One of the beauties of this medium is that musical revues give us an extraordinary peek into the history of the US during their specific eras, so that we can compare those eras to our own. We can see how Americans handled things then, that they were rife with their own issues, and that there is a lot of overlap in the problems that we face today,” says Hopkins. SRQ

culture city

CREATIVE DEEP DIVE

While riding the high of their recent world premiere performance of “Apartments”, the Sybarite5 reflect on their journey from summer camp to stardom. Arianna Kolesar

LAST NOVEMBER, THE ARTIST SERIES CONCERTS OF SARASOTA BROUGHT THE SYBARITE5 QUINTET TO THE HISTORIC ASOLO THEATRE, filling the space with string music and a mélange of miscellaneous sounds. Leading the group was Sarasotanative Louis Levitt, a double bassist in the Sybarite5, accompanied by fellow members Sami Merdinian (violin), Suliman Tekalli (violin), Caeli Smith (viola and violin) and Laura Andrade (cello). Their performance was not only an opening show, but a world premiere of “Apartments”, a commission by Los Angelesbased composer, producer and performer Jackson Greenberg. The performance itself acted as a window to a past pandemic reality and the bustle of humanity’s dayto-day captured auditorily. Greenberg’s inclusion of an AM news radio (broadcasting live, local stations), rain, coffee machines and human communication (through string instruments) is a master class on the musicality of everyday sounds and calls the audience to be mindful of their senses and human connections in today’s postpandemic world. In support of Greenberg’s musical choices, Sami Merdinian added “I think the piece itself really brings an element of anxiety and anguish. It’s a reminder of the ghost-like town that New York was during the first few months of quarantine, and I think Jackson [Greenberg] has done a great job bringing those elements to life in this piece.”

IMAGE COURTESY OF SYBARITE5, SHERVIN + LAINEZ

This page: A quintet of classically-trained musicians, Sybarite5 provides a concert experience that is both unique and entertaining.

culture city

Anxiety also presents itself as the AM news radio, considering the broadcast is not pre-recorded, but live during every one of their performances. The original station that inspired the radio’s insertion was NYC’s “1010 Wins”, but the station is subject to change depending on where the quintet is performing. Louis Levitt expanded on the inspiration of “1010 Wins.” saying “I think their slogan is ‘all news, all the time’ and then they repeat it every 10 minutes. So, it’s this idea that you’ll get a picture of what is happening in the entire world within less than 10 minutes. And with this piece being just under 10 minutes I think that detail was part of Jackson’s inspiration: How can we bring the outside world into our performance and at the same time, realize, ‘Hey, that’s happening outside.’” Finding stimulation from stories outside of the day-today during COVID-19, was crucial to feeling a sense of normalcy under very abnormal circumstances. Hence, the radio acts as a means of escape.

However, because of the radio’s randomness, what the group hears when they’re rehearsing will likely not be the same as when they’re performing, making every showcase different for both the audience and Sybarite5 themselves. Additionally, the content of the radio can sometimes be politically/socially charged, so there’s an aspect of discourse layered into the ensemble which is another reminder of pandemic-times. “During our soundcheck [in Sarasota] the topic on the radio was about calcium and keeping your bones healthy, but, during the performance, it was about immigration, and it became much more political. Including a subject that people have their opinions on was definitely not planned, but there were a lot of different reactions, and I think that’s the beauty of the piece: you can get so many different reactions from one subject” said Merdinian.

In terms of evolution, Sybarite5’s story is anything but static. Louis Levitt began his personal journey with music in his fifth-grade year at Pine View School. As time —and grades—passed, Levitt progressed to the highestlevel orchestra “senior high chamber symphony” at Pine View while also becoming a member of Sarasota Youth Orchestra—named Florida West Coast Symphony at the time. Levitt occupied many musical outlets during his time in Sarasota, but eventually, his creative appetite developed outside of his home city and led him to attend Aspen Music Festival, where Sybarite5 has its origins. Levitt and Merdinian both attended the festival and knew each other by association, but eventually became fellow quintet members.

Levitt was known to be a part of a busking group that performed in Aspen outside of a bakery. He and his busking friends had a contract with the owners

of the small business that allowed them to perform 3 or 5 evenings out of the week. Not only did this experience give Levitt, and his peers, the confidence to perform and improvise, it was also a catalyst for him to form relationships with fellow students and create a comradery that developed into what “Sybarite” is at present. Since the busking days, Sybarite5 has gone through multiple updates member-wise; “We could be Sybarite3 right now or Sybarite7, depending on the number of musicians,” says Levitt, “But during the pandemic, we had to ask the question ‘What do we want?’” Hence, the group is currently focused on 5 musicians, considering the sound of two violins, cello, viola, and bass resonated with them the most.

Another aspect of Levitt’s experience at Aspen Music Festival was his exposure to post-genre music. Some examples Sybarite5 gave regarding musicians that fit the “post-genre” description are Bach, Mozart, Tchaikovsky, Radiohead, and Led Zeppelin. When you’re a musician, everything is musical, even if it doesn’t fit a specific genre’s mold. Merdinian explained “When you’re a musician, you relate to everything in your daily life: The wheels in motion on the underground subways are rhythmic. If you want melodies, go on a walk in Central Park and you’ll hear birdsong or distant conversations and I think that’s all musical.” Especially for a world coming out of isolation post-pandemic, finding the musicality in everyday life is something special. The premiere of “Apartments” was originally planned to be in NYC since the title itself is a reference to New Yorkers’ struggles while being stuck in their small spaces during COVID. However, Sarasota had more room for movement, more open-air spaces, and a different city dynamic altogether. Therefore, the change in premiere-city wasn’t too much of a jump, but it added a new perspective to the showcase. Philadelphia-based violinist & violist Caeli Smith mentioned “Half of the energy in the room is the people that are there, in the audience, and a live performance is such a warm and welcoming thing to experience, no matter where it is.”

Looking forward, Sybarite5 hopes to return to Sarasota in the coming year and will continue their Rite on Time tour through April across North America. When they plan to make their return, Levitt emphasized referencing the Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota’s website for updates. Until then, the Sybarite5 members are always open to communication. “We’re pretty friendly. If people want to reach us, reach out to us” Levitt urges. SRQ

Spread: Sybarite5 performing at the Historic Asolo Theatre in Sarasota, Florida.

SEVERE LEATHER Men’s Shoes FRCIM 84412 10-43 BUF GRIGIO SCURO $735, Green Crocodile Purse 2022 PRAT BORSO EMB CROC CASTA $365, Black Cross Body Bag 2602 GIU BORSA UOMO NAPPA MOD $435, Colorful Purse 2209 MARORL BORSA EMB PITONE $1,235, Backpack 2109 GIU ZAINO PELLE GRIGIO/BLU $765, Eleganza, 1477 Main Street, Sarasota, (941) 955-8855.

Below: The Wascally Wabbit at Wink Wink is a slow-roasted rabbit confit on a bed of mushroom duxelles.

forage

MODERN MERGE

A creative partnership is making gastronomy fun at Wink Wink Modern Lounge. Kevin Allen

THEY TOOK DRASTICALLY DIFFERENT PATHS TO GET HERE, BUT DONALD ROBINSON AND JOE BRUGH, the culinary masterminds behind Sarasota’s Wink Wink Lounge, have found their niche. They’ve transformed the restaurant attached to the Sarasota Modern Hotel in the Rosemary District into one of the area’s most exciting destinations for elevated cuisine with zero hints of pretension. In fact, one of the most memorable dishes on the menu is cheekily named the Wascally Wabbit. It’s a bold move to nod to the beloved Bugs Bunny when referring to the duo’s rabbit confit, but this is a team that eschews traditional approaches to fine dining. That becomes apparent the moment you walk in, feel the tiki vibe, see the giant alligator bolted to the ceiling . . . and then when you take your first bite.

Below: Banh Mi Baby One More Time is a crispy pork belly with kimchi mayo, pickled carrot and daikon, furikake, jalapeno on a toasted baguette.

forage

This page: Wink Wink executive chef, Donald Robinson is Sarasota born and raised and he is making the most of his first opportunity in that role. Pipi Popo Loco Moco–a 6oz Wagyu beef patty, furikake rice, shiitake mushrooms, caramelized onions, shoyu demi and a s unny up egg.

While the vibe is island fun, make no mistake: What you’ll find on the plate is fantastically creative. In the Wascally Wabbit dish, Robinson, Wink Wink’s executive chef, has created something so memorable that local foodies have been driven to return visits.

The process to make it is as complex as the resulting flavor of the dish itself. The rabbit leg is packed in herb salt for 24 hours to allow it to dry out a bit. Then it’s cooked with shallots, herbs and slow roasted at 220 degrees for 10 hours. It cools for another 24 hours before it’s finished off and served on a bed of shitake mushroom duxelle with some duck fat roasted carrots. But if you think this is the creation of a classically trained molecular gastronomist, you’d be mistaken. While Brugh, who serves as the Director of Culinary and Beverage at The Modern, took the culinary school path and made his own mark as a fine dining chef, Robinson’s route was more localized.

FLO GROWN

Robinson’s journey started with a stint in Suncoast Technical College’s culinary program, which helped him get his first restaurant gig as a line cook at the Chili’s on Bee Ridge, where he learned consistency. He progressed from one back-of-house opportunity to the next, including a turn at Bent Tree Country Club, where he had his first taste of fine dining. It was there that he pitched his first dish idea for a banquet: salmon with a citrus crust and banana beurre blanc. The reviews were rave, the dish was added to the club’s main menu, and Robinson was hooked.

Any doubt he may have had about whether to pursue a career in the culinary arts was out the window once he watched his dish inspire a woman to throw her hands above her head and do the “raise the roof” dance. He became obsessed with learning how to become a chef and soaked up every lesson he could from every chef he worked with. Fast forward to 2020. Robinson had worked his way up the ladder with Cinebistro, making it all the way to sous chef when he was told they’d be bringing another sous chef named Joe. And that’s when everything changed.

NOT YOUR AVERAGE JOE

Brugh’s career began in fine dining in his native Indiana. After graduating from the International Culinary Academy in Pittsburgh, Brugh bounced around some high-pressure, high-stress kitchens around Indianapolis before eventually making it

to Sarasota to head up the kitchen at Wink Wink’s predecessor, Rudolph’s, which carried more of a loungy steakhouse vibe. When the pandemic hit, staff was reduced, and Brugh landed in the Cinebistro kitchen, where he saw great potential in his fellow sous chef. “Robinson has a thirst for knowledge—to know why, and wanting to understand the physics of cooking and the little things, whether it’s how something evaporates or the right tool for the right job,” Brugh says. They started talking more. Talking turned into collaboration. Collaboration turned into the concept that is Wink Wink Lounge. The years of hard work, the studying, the self-directed learning, the endless brain picking . . . it had paid off.

“WE CAN DO WHATEVER WE WANT”

As pandemic restrictions eased, Brugh, now promoted to Sarasota Modern’s Food and Beverage Director, had the opportunity to create a new concept at the Sarasota Modern.

At Cinebistro, “we didn’t really have a captive audience,” he says. “People came to see movies there, but here [at Wink Wink], the ceiling’s blown off. We can do whatever the hell we want, and it’s awesome.” It was an exciting proposition for Robinson, who made the difficult decision to leave Cinebistro, where he had risen through the ranks and had started to take on leadership opportunities in the kitchen. “I was getting the pay that I had worked hard for over 15-plus years, but I felt very empty inside,” Robinson says. “I didn’t know what it was — just this ultimate void. Even though I was surrounded by food, a great kitchen staff, I just felt empty.”

After creating and costing out some innovative new dishes at Cinebistro only to have their ideas shot down at the corporate level, Brugh and Robinson started talking about what they could create, given the opportunity. “If you’re stuck in the same ways — this is the way we’ve always done it — that’s the recipe for disaster,” Brugh says.

And that emptiness Robison mentioned? It was about to be filled in a big way — with a heaping helping of fun to boot. Given creative freedom at Wink Wink, Brugh and Robinson developed a 1950s/60s-style suburban tiki bar concept with a sometimes Asian, always tropical vibe. “Anywhere a coconut grows is fair game to us,” Brugh says. The interior went from sleek lounge to a poolside party vibe. There’s a giant alligator bolted to the ceiling, and the menu is a pun-laden riot.

There’s the Bahn Mi Baby One More Time, the Bao to the Belly, and the Pipi Popo Loco Moco bowl, to name just a few of the menu items that patrons are enjoying. Whether it’s the elevated rabbit confit or a Korean ramen corn dog, “if it’s not weird or wacky,” Brugh says, “we’re not really interested in it.”

It’s elevated cuisine that doesn’t take itself too seriously, devoid of the pomp and mystique upon which some chefs insist. “We’re not using the gastronomy to show that we’re using the gastronomy. It’s a matter of using the gastronomy in a way that benefits the food,” Brugh says.

While the rabbit continues to wow some of Sarasota’s most serious foodies, the most popular dish since the new menu launched in November has been the braised oxtail mac ‘n’ cheese. For the scratch-made cheese sauce, Robinson makes a reduction of white wine, roasted garlic, shallots, and thyme. Then it’s a Prairie Breeze white cheddar cheese — some of the finest the state of Iowa has to offer — plus some chicken stock. All of that melts together to create a rich, complex flavor that transcends cheddar. The oxtail is slow-cooked and braised with rosemary and mirepoix in a house-made veal stock.

For the Wink Wink team, humor is a way to create a culture where food is fun —where celebrating the art of the possible isn’t just encouraged; it’s mandatory. This is a partnership built on not overthinking or overreaching. “I think a lot of restaurants either get over their head or become too pretentious,” Brugh says. “I came up through a lot of highend restaurants, and my biggest takeaway from that is the stress that goes into making the dish translate to the customer. You can taste when something’s over-produced.” He applauds Robinson for letting the food do the talking.

“When you let things sing for themselves, you can create an orchestra, and that’s the beauty of the way he cooks,” Brugh says. “We can talk the language that we both speak and it creates food that I would put up against anyone.” That’s not enough for Robinson, who looks down the line in his kitchen and sees more than co-workers. He sees himself and the journey he took to earn the moniker “chef.” He sees the mentors who helped him along the way. And when a line cook gets upset because his pans are still wet and not as clean as they should be, Robinson gets it.

“I know exactly where you’re coming from,” he tells them. “Let me help you out with that.” SRQ

WRITTEN BY Laura Paquette PHOTOGRAPHY BY Wes Robert

Three Perfect Winter Soups

WILD MUSHROOM BISQUE

STEVE PHELPS, THE CHEF AT INDIGENOUS, first created his version of the wild mushroom bisque while working at a restaurant in Cleveland, Ohio. The soup, which contains porcini, shiitake and baby portobello mushrooms, has been on the menu since Indigenous first opened in 2011. Drizzled with truffle oil and rye croutons, the bisque is made from scratch almost every day using a secret technique. “The soup is savory but not too creamy,” says Phelps, “and on a daily basis people who hate mushrooms will taste a bit of the soup from someone at their table and then order a bowl for themselves.” The soup is equally popular during the cooler winter months and hot days of summer. “In the dead of summer, when the air is as hot as the soup, we have guests who sit down outside at 5:30 in the afternoon and order a cup of the mushroom bisque,” adds Phelps, who believes that its popularity is a testament to how comforting the soup is for patrons. “We’ve had some VIP guests who, on their deathbeds, asked their loved ones to bring them the bisque for their last meal,” he says, “and I think that says a lot.” Indigenous Restaurant, 239 S. Links Ave., Sarasota. 941-706-4740. indigenoussarasota.com

NAVY BEAN & HAM SOUP

OPENED IN 1968, MARINA JACK is one of the longest continuously operated restaurants in Sarasota. In the late 1970s, the restaurant struck gold with the navy bean and ham soup which has been on the menu at The Deep Six Lounge and The Dining Room ever since. “We tried to take it off the menu,” says General Manager Greg Corvelle, “but people were up in arms.” After about two weeks, the soup returned for good. The simple dish contains white navy beans, ham hock, bacon, onions, ham base and fresh potatoes, but demands a culinary chemist to elevate the ingredients into the beloved final product. Preparatory Chef Clyde, who joined the restaurant team in the seventies, has been making the soup for the past forty years. Clyde prepares the soup in six-gallon batches, beginning with cooking down the ham hock (bone included), soaking the beans to soften them and then stripping the meat off the hambone. “He knows that the beans are ready when they’re tender and squishy,” says Corvelle, comparing Clyde to a mad scientist who knows just how to follow the recipe through to the hearty end result. The meat and beans are then combined and simmered, with the faster-cooking potatoes added last. The soup, a meal in itself, takes seven to eight hours to make and is worth every second of simmering. Marina Jack, 2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota, 941-365-4232. marinajacks.com

SOPA DE MARISCOS SEAFOOD SOUP BOWL

MARIELA PINEDA AND HER HUSBAND, CHEF JUAN PINEDA, opened Mariscos Aztecas ten years ago. Their beloved sopa de mariscos seafood soup bowl (right) has been a restaurant staple ever since. The soup is a medley of shrimp, fish, calamari, octopus and mussels as well as carrots, celery, onions and potatoes. “Juan puts so much passion into the soup,” says Mariela, “and that’s what makes it special.” Like everything else on the menu, the soup is made from scratch with ingredients sourced by Pineda himself. If he’s not happy with a certain product, he won’t cook with it. “It’s comfort food,” says Mariela, “and we actually had a customer who wanted to order it to make her feel better after watching a sad show with her family.” Customers who’ve dined at Mariscos for the last ten years come back again and again for the soup. Besides being rich in flavor, the soup is also a great hangover cure, according to Mariela. “A lot of customers order it to recuperate!” she adds. Mariscos Azteca Mexican Seafood Restaurant, 1100 N. Tuttle Ave., 941-210-3873, Sarasota. mariscosazteca.com

giving coast

A BEACON OF LIGHT

Bonnie Eskell remains a steadfast system of support for everyone around her. Barbie Heit

AS THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC TOOK ITS TOLL ON OUR COMMUNITY, some very special people stepped up to become “good heroes” to those who needed help. Bonnie Eskell was one of those people. As the early-learning inclusion coordinator at Children First, she became known as a beacon of light for the children, families and staff. Bonnie, a mother of three daughters, each born with challenges, began her career at the age of 20, learning and working at SFCC (now South Florida State College). When she realized that she needed childcare to continue her college education, she changed her major from psychology to child care center management. “When I saw how desperately the day-care staff needed help,” she says. “I remember saying…I could do this better! I could make this better, and so I did!”

After graduating from SFCC, Bonnie began her lifelong career of working with children. First, she became the assistant director at the childcare center her daughter attended. Later, she went back to online college when her medically-fragile little girl was diagnosed with asthma. From there, she went to work with Highlands infant program (high school parents with infants) in Sebring, Fl, to the YMCA children services group in Sarasota as the center specialist, overseeing quality enhancement and helping with everything from mini grants to modeling in the classroom. Shortly after giving birth to another daughter in 2004 (also medically fragile with many special needs), she went to Pines of Sarasota where she worked for 13 years as a lead teacher. Finally, after receiving a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary social science, she became an early childhood development specialist (ECDS) at Children First, where she remains today.

giving coast

“I CAME

FIRST

2017

CHILD DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST. As I was nearly out of college at USF, my education and my background gave me some special insight on how to work with adults as well as children and the ECDS position is actually more of a site director/ supervisory role,” she says. “While I enjoyed my time supporting and supervising some phenomenal folks there, my passion was with the children with special needs so at the end of 2021, I applied for the inclusion coordinator position and got it.”

SAW

With very little warning, the organization shut down for the pandemic. During the days and weeks that followed a phone tree was started. It was Bonnie’s job to call every staff member at least three times a week for check-ins. She would fill out a spreadsheet after each call, noting how the staff was coping and if there was anything they needed. She helped them to set up Zoom as they went forth virtually to deliver services to their families. At the same time, she was working on her masters degree in psychology with a focus on child development from Capella University. When the group came back on campus, Bonnie was the only consistently onsite supervisor. Together with her colleagues, she ordered safe things for the classroom that wouldn’t hold the virus and helped set up safety protocols for students and staff.

“We set up one infant room and one preschool room to start the pilot of moving children back on site. Every morning, I would arrive by 7 am to help set up. I spent the majority of the day running as parents weren’t allowed in the building. We had to have a staff member greet, ask questions, take temperatures and tote the children into the building,” she says. “We had a team of runners, who were absolutely priceless, and at the same time I had to do the ECDS job of scheduling, working on payroll and continuing to support by checking in with every staff member.”

Her work during that time was not without challenges as the protocols to keep children and adults safe were extensive and not without criticism from families. However, after the staff began getting the routine down and giving support to the families, most of them came to appreciate the importance of the work the team did to help them. Bonnie remembers when one particular child who did not like hand sanitizer actually became the line leader to be first to get the “tizer” before going into the building.

“After learning that it was the smell that offended the child, and not any other reasons, I showed her that sanitizer comes in a variety of scents–orange, peppermint, and even soap scent.” Bonnie shares. “There were often younger children dropped off at the same time, so we

had her show a “baby” how to use the sanitizer. Giving the child the active productive role in the team was what made the difference. She then seemed to be empowered as the boss of the hand sanitizer. She even would report if it was running low or didn’t put out enough!”

For her efforts during that time, the regional manager and her region A-Team gave Bonnie a kindness award. “I cherish the wooden flower sign they all signed, and I really am grateful to all of those ladies!” she shares. “I was striving to be a light–I was a candle in a big candelabra of partners providing services despite the darkness of the time and I spent the majority of my time trying to keep other people lit.”

While her career is always of utmost importance, Bonnie considers her job as a mom to be number one. “I am a mom to three amazing young women with only one left in high school,” she says proudly. “I am also Mimi to two awesome little girls and wife to my sweetheart, David Eskell.”

The youngest of eight children born and raised in central Florida, Bonnie shares that she was blessed with a mom who defined faith and perseverance. Born in Wauchula Fl, Bonnie, a premature baby herself, was not expected to live long. “My mom passed away in 2019 but she taught me that it’s what you do for others that counts, not what you say or intend. Even just smiling is an act of kindness and it’s a choice to bring that face to others.”

Bonnie credits her mom, her faith in Jesus, her work family, being a preemie that overcame and having daughters with special needs who are thriving for her philosophy to never put limits on children. “Even when there are hard things happening, belonging with a loving, appreciative and accepting group makes all the difference. I choose to belong with the people I am with and help them to feel that they belong. Belonging inspires me,” she says.

And while the difficulties of the pandemic seem to be behind us, Bonnie has not stepped away from helping others. During Hurricane Ian, she opened her home to a friend and colleague along with her family and pets (including two cats, a hedgehog, dog, turtle, and 210lb minipig) for just over seven weeks while her home was flooded.

For those just starting out in their educational careers, Bonnie says “Just do it! Begin each day with motivation for yourself. If you say it is a great day, it is. Get educated as much as you can but remember education is not the same as experience. Communication with fellow educators is key to understanding. Take what you can from the experienced but make your own choices. You can make a difference.” SRQ Bonnie Eskell was honored as one of SRQ Magazine’s Good Heroes in December 2021.

ABOARD CHILDREN

IN

WHEN I

THAT THEY NEEDED A

BY MEGAN MITCHELL

TROPICAL MODERNISM

A Nod to Geometry

With Parquet, Anna Lindgren and Sofia Lagerkist from Front have managed to combine the patterns and geometries of traditional floors with new shapes and colors, generating rugs with a three-dimensional matrix, accentuated by their irregular silhouettes. Parquet enhances the GAN philosophy, which tries to integrate traditional and innovative elements with Scandinavian simplicity. 5x6’8” Rug $1,930, 6’2”x10’3” Rug $3,460, Home Resource, 741 Central Avenue, Sarasota, 941-366-6690.

Ligne Roset Ottoman Swivel Chair

While working on a concept for a hotel in Marrakech, the designer had the idea for this model, inspired by the traditional Moroccan footstool. The hotel was not completed, but the “zenitude,” comfort, and well being brought the chair to fruition. Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance, through his work with quilting and color, brought the creative “added-value” which has rooted this model in modernity. Ligne Roset Ottoman Swivel Chair $4,200, Soft Square | Modern Furniture Store, 1506 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, 941-554-4068.

COMPILED

B&B Italia Camaleonda Sofa

Camaleonda preserves the elements that have made it an iconic piece of furniture. Certain elements remain faithful to the original project, such as the seat module, the backrest and armrest, and the characteristic capitonnė design, still manufactured with the innovative systems of cables, hooks and rings created by Bellini in 1970, which defines its characteristic look and modularity. B&B Italia Camaleonda Sofa $19,581, Soft Square | Modern Furniture Store, 1506 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, 941-554-4068.

TROPICAL MODERNISM

Jalis Lounge Chair from COR

Dynamically young in its design language, the Jalis Lounge easy chair is the modern variation of a recliner. With visually accentuated contours and firm upholstery, it looks both elegant and cozy. Jalis Lounge Chair from COR $4,444-6,891, Jalis Footstool 4-feet Wire Frame $1,551-2,2124, Home Resource, 741 Central Avenue, Sarasota, 941-366-6690.

B&B Italia Ayana Outdoor Furniture

Minimalist and innovative, the Ayana collection becomes a new chapter in the story that connects B&B Italia to Naoto Fukasawa. It sees wood as the protagonist, interpreted in an unusual way, with a pleasant oriental touch. If the depths and heights are a clear reference to the Southeast Asian tradition, the backrest recalls a Swedish wall bar, an exercise equipment turned into a load-bearing element. B&B Italia Ayana Outdoor Furniture $7,122, Soft Square | Modern Furniture Store, 1506 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, 941-554-4068.

TROPICAL MODERNISM

Carl Hansen CH07 “Shell” Chair

The CH07 Shell Chair was created in 1963, but the design was ahead of its time and therefore has patiently waited for the spotlight for a number of decades. Today, it is considered one of Hans J. Wegner’s most iconic and groundbreaking designs.

Carl Hansel CH07 “Shell” Chair $4,865, Soft Square | Modern Furniture Store, 1506 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, 941-554-4068.

NUANCES Rug by Patricia Urquiola

Made from discarded wool, NUANCES, a design by Patricia Urquiola, reinvents felt by enhancing the natural beauty of its irregularities and playing with wavy shapes and color scales. Due to its sustainable soul and purpose of putting innovation and design at the service of craftsmanship, NUANCES embodies the essence of GAN. NUANCES Round Rug 8’3”x9’10” $4,600, Home Resource, 741 Central Avenue, Sarasota, 941-366-6690.

WRITTEN BY KATE WIGHT, PHOTOGRAPHY BY RYAN GAMMA

Angela Rodriguez on designing a one-of-a-kind family-friendly retreat.

FINDING A HAPPY PLACE

ANGELA RODRIGUEZ HAS ALWAYS BEEN AN ARTIST, but she has never constricted herself to a single discipline. Throughout her life, she has experimented with a variety of media, including painting, drawing, sculpture, metalsmithing and photography. “Making the decision to study interior design felt like the opportunity to explore another new medium, one that I could use to make a positive impact in the world and build a career that appealed to me,” she says. Now home interiors act as fresh canvases where Rodriguez can express her creativity and artistic sensibility. The project known as the Happy Place is just one of her masterpieces. Located in Longboat Key, this expansive 5,500-square-foot retreat is simultaneously stunning and serene. The architecture and interior design work in concert to maximize the waterfront property’s breathtaking views of Sarasota Bay. Rodriguez is the founder and director of design at Angela Rodriguez Interiors (ARI). The ARI team worked closely with Stofft Cooney Architects and Perrone Construction to bring the owners’ vision of a luxurious yet family-friendly getaway to life. The spirit of collaboration is a crucial element in every ARI project.

“We’re very team-focused internally, within our firm, but also as part of the broader project team. So us, the architect, the engineer, and the builder, we’re all a team working for the client and we are each a resource to each other,” Rodriguez says. “Having a good team is everything.” Richard Perrone of Perrone Construction recommended ARI to the owners of the Happy Place. The firm joined the design team while the builders were working on the foundations for the home.

“Oftentimes we come in on a project before they’ve broken ground,” Rodriguez explains. “This one, they were in the early stages of construction and so it was a quick initiation to dive into the details and get up to speed with what the architect was planning and where they had left off with the process so that we could pick up with the rest that was needed moving forward.”

Jumping into a project that is already underway may seem daunting, but the experienced team at ARI was ready to hit the ground running. Rodriguez credits Sonika Dechow for her invaluable contributions to the Happy Place

project. Dechow, who is now the Design Operations Manager at ARI, worked on the design plan with Rodriguez and also served as the project manager.

The duo also benefited from the efficiency of the ARI design process, which has been streamlined and refined in the fourteen years that the firm has been established.

“Our initial stage is discovery, where we’re doing fact-finding about who our clients are and how they want to live,” Rodriguez says. “We learn about who the spaces are used by and how they are used. We do a lot of information-gathering before we get started doing any designing.”

As Rodriguez explains, this discovery phase proved to be illuminating on the Happy Place project.

“We spent time getting to know the client and bouncing things off of them to identify their particular style. This couple has a youthful spirit. They’re fun. They didn’t want their home to feel stuck in the past - they wanted it to feel very current. But at the same time, they wanted to have interior architectural detail with some classic influence.

“What we uncovered through the process is that what speaks to them of quality is to have details in moldings. We wanted to give that to them because they wanted their home to feel very high-quality, but we also wanted the space to have a clean and fresh contemporary feeling at the same time. Working out the balance of those two things was our challenge.”

The clients had another specific directive that no ceiling should be plain or boring. The architecture and design of the space work together to fulfill that mandate. Stofft Cooney Architects had completed the initial ceiling plan before ARI joined the project, and roof trusses had already been ordered to construct pitched ceilings in the upstairs guest bedrooms. The addition of decorative trim to the guest room ceilings highlighted the architecture and gave the clients the classic character they were looking for. The use of trim and molding to create a full 360-degree experience continues downstairs in the tray ceilings and coffered ceilings found throughout the main floor.

Learning more about a client’s taste and personal style is just one aspect of the discovery stage of design. Rodriguez also uses the process to get to know her clients on a personal level so that she can figure out what works for them functionally as well as aesthetically.

“One of the things that always most inspires us on every job is our clients and getting to know them and their lifestyle and what they’re about and what their passions are and sort of what their family’s vibe is like,” she enthuses. “It’s fun because people are so different. The design concept is necessarily different with each and so it’s like this built-in source of inspiration with the client themselves.

Through this discovery process, Rodriguez learned that the owners of the Happy Place enjoy boating and spending time outdoors. They also love entertaining and envisioned the residence as an inviting destination where they could host gatherings of family and friends. On the main floor of the Happy Place, the lifestyle con-

siderations of the clients are addressed through striking architectural features and intelligent design choices. Both the living room and the dining room feature massive sliding glass doors that open up to offer sweeping views of Sarasota Bay. When open, the doors allow guests to move between spaces like the grand great room and well-equipped outdoor kitchen with ease.

“[The doors] were something that the architect had already created for the clients, and so our job with the interiors was just to make sure we facilitated that with the layout,” Rodriguez says.

“We created a strong visual connection between the indoors and the outdoors so it all feels like one living and entertaining space.” In addition to providing a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience, the glass doors allow abundant natural light into the space, a feature that Rodriguez always appreciates.

“I think one of the beautiful things about getting the privilege of working where we work and living where we live is that there’s just so much natural light throughout the year here,” Rodriguez says. “It feels good and it looks beautiful. It’s about the feeling of the room, and wanting it to feel light and airy. The natural light sets a tone, and we just continue that tone that the light is already starting in these spaces for us. You can walk through an empty space at a certain point in construction and just feel the light pouring in and there’s already a feeling starting in that room just from the light before we do anything else. So we really just make what we do a continuation of that beauty and that light.” Her appreciation for Florida’s natural beauty has informed Rodriguez’s design sensibility over the years.

“Up north, I feel like there’s more of a need to use lots of bright colors indoors because you are kind of compensating for the grayness of the outdoors most of the year. But here we have that color all the time and we’re not trying to upstage that,” she explains. “We might get more playful with the textures and have a little bit more of a nature-based but soft color palette. So it’s pulling in tones from the outside, but it’s not trying to

Architect: Stofft Cooney (Jenny Haire) Builder: Perrone Construction (Ricky Perrone) Interior Design: Angela Rodriguez Interiors (Angela Rodriguez) Kitchen Cabinets: Sarasota Architectural Woodworking (Margaret Hoskinson Bell) Bathroom: Angela Rodriguez Interiors (Angela Rodriguez) Landscapes: Hazeltine Nurseries (Michelle Hazeltine) Pool: Water Designs of Sarasota (Joe Dudash) Photographer: Ryan Gamma Photography

compete with the outside.” That philosophy is evident in the design choices at the Happy Place. The wall niches in the great room are covered in a muted blue grasscloth wallpaper that echoes the hues of the bay that is visible through the window. Meanwhile, the natural wood tones in the furniture evoke the sun bleached palm trees outside.

While the final design is beautiful to behold, it is also incredibly functional. Rodriguez notes that the furniture has been custom-upholstered with cleanable and performance fabrics. This degree of durability is vital in a home with so much indoor-outdoor activity.

The Happy Place project has received a number of accolades, including a Silver Award in the SRQ Magazine Home of the Year Awards in 2022. It has also just been awarded a firstplace Design Excellence Award in the

category of “Best Overall Home over 3,000 Square Feet, Transitional Style” by the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) Florida South Chapter.

For Rodriguez though, the ultimate goal is always to make her client happy.

“In the end, it is always so gratifying to see the space we designed being put to use the way our clients had dreamed of. After the Happy Place project was complete, the client actually sent us a video while making homemade pizzas in the kitchen with a group of friends. It looked like they were having a blast, making memories, entertaining, and enjoying the space the way they had dreamed. As designers, we feel invested and we share in our clients’ dreams with them, so there’s so much satisfaction at the end of the day in seeing it come true.”

SRQH&D

Angela Rodriguez Interiors, ARI, 7357 International Place, Suite $105, Sarasota, FL, 941-556-9012 | angelarodriguezinteriors.com

WRITTEN BY KATE WIGHT, PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BRISTA HOMES

RENOVATING SPACES

Building the family business with Brista Homes.

FOR THE URSINI FAMILY, BUILDING HAS ALWAYS BEEN SOMETHING OF A FAMILY BUSINESS. In 2000, with the help of his wife, Gina, Mark Ursini founded Brista Homes, a development and construction company. But the establishment of Brista Homes wasn’t the beginning of Ursini’s career. Ursini first got his start in the construction business at the age of fifteen, cleaning job sites for his father, who was a developer and builder in Connecticut.

Over time, Ursini would work his way up in the family business until he eventually found himself running the construction division. After relocating to Longboat Key in the early 90s with his wife and their two young daughters, Ursini joined a local developer building new homes in a gated community.

When he took that cleaning job at the age of fifteen, Ursini couldn’t have predicted that it would lay the foundation for a new generation of the family business. But Brista Homes is a true family affair. The company was named for Ursini’s daughters, Brittany and Christa, each of whom has played key roles in the business in areas like copywriting, marketing and graphic design. Wife Gina

is also involved in many facets of the business and has launched a boutique real estate brokerage called Brista Realty. While the team at Brista Homes specializes in custom-built residences, they have also become known throughout the Longboat Key and Sarasota areas for their luxury remodels. Mark Ursini shared his insights on what goes into a successful renovation.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE PARTS OF TAKING ON A REMODELING PROJECT?

We enjoy the before and after changes in a remodel project. A lot of our remodels are in Longboat Key condominiums that were originally built in the 70s, 80s and 90s with dated tiles and cabinets, low popcorn ceilings, and closed-off galley kitchens that blocked the beautiful water views. Most of our remodels are demoed down to the metal studs and we open up walls, raise ceilings, and install all new electrical, plumbing and AC. Smooth drywall finishes, along with solid core doors, new tile, cabinets, countertops, appliances, and fixtures give the units new life and allow our clients to enjoy th Florida lifestyle and the water views.

Brista Homes, 1656 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236, 941-373-0500, | bristahomes.com

HOW DOES THE REMODELING OR RENOVATION PROCESS DIFFER FROM CLIENT TO CLIENT? The exact scope of work and selections vary from client to client but the overall process is very similar. Some clients are very hands-on while others rarely visit the site. The second was more common during the recent COVID pandemic. We had one client that was quarantined in Scotland for the entire renovation and we were able to handle everything through video calling.

DO THE CHALLENGES OF A CONDO RENOVATION DIFFER FROM THE CHALLENGES OF RENOVATING A STAND-ALONE HOME?

Condominium remodels do offer challenges, from getting the demolition debris from a 3000 square foot penthouse down 19 stories or getting materials up 19 stories in small, crowded elevators. We regularly have to rope up 16’ baseboards, casings, and miscellaneous materials from the exterior balconies and load drywall, countertops and large glass and mirrored wall panels in the tight elevators. We often use cranes to load these larger items when the location of the unit is within reach of the parking lot. It is more cost-effective to rent a crane for a half day than have four workers load a unit the entire day. Parking and limited working hours are also a challenge in condo remodels. A single-family remodel is much easier in a lot of areas but still has its challenges. Parking for the subcontractors can be difficult on the narrow side streets in Longboat Key.

BRISTA HOMES FOCUSES LARGELY ON LUXURY REMODELS. WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES IN THIS NICHE?

I would say the shortage of high-end products and the talented labor needed for luxury properties have been the most challenging, especially during COVID. Some kitchen appliances are out twelve months or more, and the availability of regular items such as electrical parts, drywall and concrete has made it difficult to maintain a consistent and productive construction schedule. Over the past few years, cost increases have made it very challenging to stay on budget. A lot of these remodels are priced six months or more in advance of the start dates and by the time we are ready for items such as drywall or AC units, there have been multiple price increases. These increases come mostly from the manufacturer or supplier so unfortunately there is nothing we or the client can do about it. That is the reason why we have moved to cost-plus contracts. It would be unfair to our clients if we tried to project where costs might go six months or a year in advance. We now prepare a control budget based on the current pricing and reprice items 30 days out from installation. We then share any cost changes with the owners. If there are significant increases, we offer our clients more affordable options to make a final selection. SRQH&D

Images courtesy of Brista Homes.