BUSINESS OBSERVER

+ Sarasota Open confirms first female player for ladies invitational
Alexandra Stevenson has confirmed her participation in the 2012 Ladies Invitational Tournament as part of the Sarasota Open 2012. It is the first year the tournament has been open to women.

“We are thrilled to have Alexandra onboard as our first confirmed player in the Ladies Invitational Tournament,” says Tony Driscoll, co-tournament director.

The WTA professional ranked in the top 100 players for five years and was ranked 18th in the world in 2002. Since a shoulder injury in 2004, she has been rehabilitating and training. In April 2008, she moved up 200 spots and earned the highest percentage for ranking movement.

+ Sarasota Yacht Club makes a splash with new water-sport program
Sarasota Yacht Club rolled out a kayak and paddleboard water-sports program that began March 5. Members will be able to rent kayaks and paddleboards. They will also be able to take lessons, fitness classes and take Ecotours. Prices range from $25 to $35 for half-days, and $30 to $50 for full days, but there will also be a paddle clinic monthly in which members will be able to try the equipment for free. Part of the proceeds will benefit Mote Marine Laboratory.

+ Cool pool on Longboat Key receives recognition from state association
Lucas Lagoons Inc. of Sarasota won a bronze award in the Residential Restorations category for a pool on Longboat Key. The judges for the Florida Swimming Pool Association selected it from a “pool” of candidates for its waterfall, landscape and stonework with vegetation.