Alliance, Observer seek Sandies award submissions

LAKEWOOD RANCH — The Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance and the East County Observer again have joined forces to recognize Lakewood Ranch’s outstanding businesses and citizens, during the upcoming Sandies Awards.

The event will recognize Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance members in the categories of “Entrepreneurial Spirit,” “Corporate Philanthropy” and “Business of the Year.” A “Lakewood Ranch Citizen of the Year” also will be recognized for his or her contributions to the community.

“We all know someone who stands out in the community,” said Robin Parsons, business development director for the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance. “This person may even be you. This is your chance to honor and identify these people, businesses or yourself that make our community a tremendous place to live and work and play.

“These awards honor individuals who strive toward the highest levels of personal and professional accomplishment, who excel in their chosen field, devote time and energy to their community in a meaningful way and forge paths of leadership for other businesses to follow,” she said.

Organizations or individuals wishing to be considered for any of those categories should contact Amanda Vercheski at 757-1671 or via email at [email protected]. Citizen of the Year applications can be downloaded at LWRBA.org.

All application submissions are due by 4 p.m. Monday, Oct. 8, to the Alliance office at 1440 Covenant Way, Lakewood Ranch, in the Schroeder-Manatee Ranch headquarters building, or via email to [email protected].

The Sandies, a corporate awards dinner, will be held at 6 p.m. Nov. 16, at the Polo Grill and Bar’s Fête Ballroom. A cocktail reception will start at 5 p.m., and an after-party event will follow at 8 p.m.

Contact Pam Eubanks at [email protected].

CATEGORIES
Entrepreneurial Spirit Award — recognizes an individual among the members of the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance for best demonstrating the characteristics of entrepreneurs and the spirit of entrepreneurism.

Corporate Philanthropy Award — will be presented to an organization or business that demonstrates outstanding commitment through financial and volunteer support encouraging others to take leadership roles in philanthropic community involvement.

Business of the Year Award — honors a business that has a stellar reputation with its customers, employees and in the community; produces and/or delivers superior products and services; and that has made exceptional contributions to the betterment of Lakewood Ranch beyond its business.

Lakewood Ranch Citizen of the Year Award — honors a resident of Lakewood Ranch for his or her individual accomplishments and special contributions to the growth, enrichment and enhancement of the community.