A Sarasota County teacher has once again filed to challenge state Rep. Fiona McFarland, R-Sarasota. Derek Reich, the only Democrat filed in House District 73, in his first filing of the cycle reported more than a $31,000 haul.

That’s less than McFarland still. The incumbent has raised well over $44,000 as she seeks a third term in the Florida House, though less than $11,000 of that came in during the just closed quarter.

That’s only looking at candidate accounts. McFarland’s political committee, Friends of Sarasota, raised another $34,500 from July through September, and had nearly $260,000 in cash on hand at the start of October. Meanwhile, Reich’s committee, the Freedom First Fund, hasn’t raised any funding since his 2022 run and has close to nothing in the bank.

But a five-figure haul over three months and a competitive cash pile in the bank shows Reich at least poised to test in McFarland’s nearly 13-percentage-point rout in November was a sign of the state’s midterm mood, with Republicans over-performing from the Panhandle to the Keys, or a sign Sarasota and the state have shifted permanently to the right.

Prominent local Democrats can be found on Reich’s list of donors, including for Sarasota Democratic Party Chair Christine Jennings, one of Florida’s top Democratic fundraisers, as well as current Sarasota Democratic Party Chair Daniel Kuether. The Sarasota Democratic Executive Committee also provided more than 1,100 in in-kind support, primarily opening up access to its voter databases. His fundraising was buoyed by 21 donors who gave the maximum $1,000 allowed by law, but all of those donors came from Sarasota County.

“With just a few phone calls we raised more than $33,000,” Reich said. “95% of that money came from Sarasota County. $0 of Fiona's money came from Sarasota County. That reflects who she really works for. This campaign is just like its candidate: Born, raised and for Sarasota County. And I'm the only candidate in this race that can say that. Tallahassee Republicans are destroying working people's shot at the American Dream, and our fundraising reflects that anger.”

McFarland declined to comment on her fundraising, much of which came from conservative political committees around the state. Lobbying firm Greenberg Traurig gave $1,000, as did the Committee of Florida Agents, an insurance lobby. The Doctors Company Florida PAC also gave the maximum amount.

The district holds potential to be a swing district, though the last time McFarland faced Reich offered little hint. In addition to McFarland’s victory in. the newly redistricted seat, 54.53% of House District 73 voters supported Republican Sen. Marco Rubio’s re-election, and 55.81% voted for Gov. Ron DeSantis to win a second term. But in 2020, voters in the district largely split in the presidential election, with 49.7% supporting Republican Donald Trump and 49.34% favoring Democrat Joe Biden. 

Photo: Fiona McFarland, Derek Reich.

RE/MAX Alliance Group, one of the fastest growing real estate brokerages in Florida, announces its purchase of Locals Realty from Shawn Kaleta. Locals Realty consisted of two offices, one on Anna Maria Island and one on Siesta Key. Agents of the Locals Realty Anna Maria office will stay at the current location at 317 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria, Florida 34216. Agents of the Siesta Key office will relocate to the RE/MAX Alliance Group office at 5221 Ocean Boulevard, Sarasota, Florida 34242. Locals Realty umbrella company Prime Vacation Rentals, owned by Kaleta, is now the preferred vacation rental property management company for RE/MAX Alliance Group. All rentals from RE/MAX Alliance Group’s former affiliate, Postcard Vacation Rentals, were transferred to Prime Vacation Rentals as part of the agreement with Kaleta. RE/MAX Alliance Group now has a total of 13 offices from Tampa Bay to Charlotte County. The 22 agents and employees of Locals Realty will become part of the RE/MAX Alliance Group family, for a total of approximately 400 associates and staff and a combined 2022 production of more than $2.2 billion and more than 4,500 transactions. RE/MAX Alliance Group is the #1 RE/MAX franchise in Florida and the #1 RE/MAX franchise in Florida for contributions to the Children’s Miracle Network. The company offers residential and commercial real estate solutions through offices in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco and Hernando counties. For more information, please visit https://www.alliancegroupfl.com. 

Migraine affects more than 1 billion people worldwide. Although there are approved treatments, current therapies may not work for everyone, leaving many to experience the disability of migraine attacks. In an effort to improve treatment outcomes, the Sarasota Memorial Research Institute has joined approximately 25 research sites around the nation testing a combination of two approved migraine therapies – onabotulinumtoxinA and atogepant – to determine if they can safely control migraine more effectively when the treatments are used together. Atogepant is an oral treatment approved by the FDA in 2021 for the treatment of episodic migraine; the regulatory approval was expanded to chronic migraine in April 2023. Today, it is the only drug of its kind approved to treat both chronic and episodic migraines (chronic migraines are those that occur 15 or more days per month, while episodic migraines occur fewer than 14 days per month). OnabotulinumtoxinA was approved by the FDA in 2010 for prevention of headache in patients with chronic migraine. The clinical study (NCT05216263) will not involve placebo. Rather, individuals age 18 to 75 who currently are receiving standardized therapy with onabotulinumtoxinA and enrolled in the trial will receive one atogepant tablet daily as an add-on treatment over a 24-week treatment period. The study sponsor, AbbVie Inc., will closely evaluate the safety of combining the therapies and potential to prevent migraines. Approximately 125 participants will be enrolled. For more information about the trial and enrollment criteria, call the Sarasota Memorial Research Institute at (941) 917-2225 or visit the FDA clinical trial webpage at: https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05216263?term=atogepant&recrs=adf&draw=2#contacts  

Fiduciary Associates, an independent trust and estates administration firm, is pleased to announce Lydia Korff has joined the team as fiduciary services director. Korff is a highly experienced attorney and trust advisor with expertise in trust, credit and real estate guidance and administration, both domestic and international. She has also held several legal roles in litigation and tax. Korff graduated from Georgetown University with a major in international relations and has a juris doctorate from New York Law School. She contributes her time to several professional and community organizations, including the Georgetown University Club of Miami, Women’s Wall Street Alliance and Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce. 

The American Advertising Federation (AAF) Suncoast Chapter is thrilled to announce its upcoming Member Mixer event at Art Ovation Hotel’s Perspective Rooftop Bar on Thursday, October 26. This exciting event aims to bring together members of the local advertising and marketing community for an evening of networking, camaraderie, and creative inspiration. The AAF Suncoast Member Mixer will provide a unique opportunity for professionals and enthusiasts from various sectors of the advertising industry to connect, share insights, and build meaningful relationships. Attendees will have the chance to exchange ideas, collaborate on potential projects, and gain valuable knowledge about the latest trends and innovations in the field. The event takes place on Thursday, October 26th, 6:00pm – 9:00pm at Art Ovation Hotel’s Perspective Rooftop Bar • 1255 N Palm Ave 8th Floor, Sarasota. Admission is free for AAF Suncoast Members / $15 for Non-Members. The event will feature a range of activities, including: Networking with fellow advertising professionals, business owners, and creatives in a casual and friendly environment; Liquid Libations: Enjoy a selection of signature cocktails, as well as craft beer and wine, from Art Ovation’s extensive menu; Door Prizes: Attendees will have the chance to win exciting door prizes, including industry-related goodies and merchandise. As the advertising landscape continues to evolve, the AAF Suncoast Chapter remains committed to fostering a strong sense of community and promoting excellence within the industry. The Member Mixer is just one of the many events organized by the chapter to provide valuable opportunities for learning, growth, and collaboration. Interested individuals can also learn more about becoming a member of AAF Suncoast and the benefits it offers by visiting aaf-suncoast.com/become-a-member. 

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After witnessing the most horrific terrorist attacks in Israel’s history, the fight against hate is more important than ever. In a commitment to combating the scourge of antisemitism and promoting understanding and unity, Temple Sinai has joined the esteemed organization, Kulanu: Synagogues in Action Against Antisemitism. Organized by the ADL (Anti-Defamation League), this endeavor underscores the urgency of actively addressing the deep-seated issue of antisemitism through education, community engagement, and advocacy. By aligning with Kulanu, Temple Sinai will embark on an eight-month journey beginning this month that empowers congregations to stand up against hate, foster dialogue, and build bridges of understanding within their communities. Kulanu is Hebrew for “all of us.” Participants join a network of congregations to build bridges of understanding across communities. ADL will prepare Temple Sinai with resources to develop and implement engaging and impactful programming through the exclusive Kulanu initiative inspiration library, interactive webinars with ADL experts, and guidance from professionals. This is ADL’s second year of the program. As a Kulanu synagogue, Temple Sinai will learn how to have critical conversations about antisemitism and other forms of bigotry and cultivate the tools to fight such hate.This includes establishing a dedicated programming oversight group, encouraging reporting of incidents to ADL, launching two community initiatives, engaging in Kulanu webinars, participating in a community of practice, and sharing program impact upon completion. Chazzan Cliff Abramson says, “We deserve to live in a world devoid of hate. Temple Sinai is proud to join Kulanu to combat antisemitism all over the world and especially Israel, through unity, solidarity, and education. We seek partnerships with like-minded congregations, driven by the goal expressed simply by the late Lord Rabbi Jonathan Sacks who said ‘I don’t need you to agree with me, I need you to care about me!’” Members of Temple Sinai’s Kulanu committee are: Chazzan Abramson, Andrea Eiffert (Staff Liaison), David Kaufman, Cindy Nash, Michelle Portnow-Rivas, Holly Schirtzer, Patty Schreiber, and Bob Steiner. For information, visit templesinai-sarasota.org or contact Andrea Eiffert at aeiffert@templesinai-sarasota.org. For more information on Kulanu, visit adl.org/apply-kulanu. 

As part of its ongoing commitment to promoting safety and support for survivors of domestic violence, Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC) is proud to announce a unique collaboration with local law enforcement agencies during the month of October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). In an effort to shine a light on the importance of addressing domestic violence in our community, SPARCC has partnered with the Sarasota Police Department, Venice Police Department, North Port Police Department, and Sarasota County Sheriff's Office. Together, they will proudly display ribbon magnets on their patrol cars throughout the month of October. These magnets bear the messages 'Stop Domestic Violence' and 'Support Survivors,' serving as powerful symbols of unity and commitment to ending domestic violence in our community. Jessica Hays, SPARCC President & CEO, expressed enthusiasm about this initiative, stating, “This collaboration underscores the vital role that law enforcement agencies play in raising awareness about domestic violence and supporting survivors. These magnets reflect our community's collective effort to stand against domestic violence, showing survivors that they are not alone in their journey towards safety and healing.” The ribbon magnets serve as a visual reminder that domestic violence affects individuals and families across all demographics. They also support those affected by this issue and encourage individuals to seek help. During DVAM, SPARCC will continue its mission to provide a safe haven and promote empowerment, awareness, and social change to end domestic and sexual violence. The organization invites community members to join the cause by using the hashtags #DVAM and #SupportSPARCC on social media, sharing their support, and attending DVAM awareness events. For more information about SPARCC and their DVAM activities, please follow SPARCC Facebook page at www.facebook.com/SPARCC/.  

Sheriff Kurt A. Hoffman is pleased to announce that the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office (SCSO) has been re-accredited by the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation (CFA). The agency received its official notification at the commission's general meeting on October 5 in Sanibel, FL. A team of assessors from the commission evaluated many aspects of the sheriff’s office, including its policies, management, operations, and support services, in August of this year. Assessors determined SCSO to be in compliance with all 235 applicable standards and, in the recommendation for re-accreditation, commended the agency for ten flawless onsite visits in a row and the fifth time receiving the Excelsior Award. In addition to this CFA law enforcement accreditation, Sarasota County's Correctional Facility is also accredited by the Florida Corrections Accreditation Commission (FCAC), while the facilities' medical services are accredited by the National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC). The agency's Public Safety Communications Section is accredited for law enforcement dispatch by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) and for medical and fire communications by the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED). The agency's Property and Evidence Section is accredited by the International Association for Property and Evidence (IAPE), and finally, the drug lab received its accreditation from the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA).  

Get tickets for Friendsgiving…A Dessert and Wine Auction - Saturday, November 11th, 6:00-10:00 pm at IMG Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton. It is going to be a fun-filled evening with live and silent auctions of locally made, delicious desserts plus fabulous gift baskets featuring sports packages, spa services, restaurant gift cards, fun excursions plus the famous Wine Pull. Limited seating. $25 tickets include a delicious menu, served buffet style from IMG Chef Rocky Fidelibus. Cash bar. Local celebrity Bob Slicker, Slicker’s Eatery owner, will be the auctioneer. It is going to be a fun evening! Benefits local shelter animals.  

Saturday, November 11th, 6:00- 10:00 pm at IMG Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton.

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LeeSar and Cooperative Services of Florida, Inc. (CSF), leaders in the health care supply chain industry, are pleased to announce the appointment of John Streger as the new President and CEO effective November 20, 2023.  Streger has more than 30 years of experience in the healthcare supply chain and group purchasing arena and brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of success to LeeSar/CSF. Prior to this appointment, Streger was on the leadership team at Vizient, the nation’s largest provider-driven healthcare performance improvement company, serving in two capacities: VP of Strategic Sourcing Partnerships & Programs and CEO for the regional group purchasing organization (GPO) covering 10 states in the Midwest. Streger will succeed Bob Boswell, who is retiring after six years of exceptional leadership and dedication to the organization and an impressive healthcare career spanning more than 45 years. “As LeeSar/CSF prepares for this important leadership transition, the Board would also like to express its deep appreciation for Bob’s remarkable contributions during his tenure,” said Sarasota Memorial Health Care System President and CEO David Verinder, who serves as chairman of the board for LeeSar, Inc. and Cooperative Services of Florida, Inc.  “We are confident that John is the right choice to continue LeeSar/CSF’s tradition of excellence and Bob’s legacy of commitment to clinically integrated, value-based care. Surrounded by our experienced and skilled executive team and associates, John’s leadership will provide a smooth transition and the vision and skill necessary for continued growth.”

GLASS HALF FULL | Hamilton star Jonathan Kirkland talks about his career and what it means for him to give back, October 2023.

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SRQ’s Giving Coast program connects the nonprofits in our region with our philanthropic readers in the Giving Back May/June and the December editions of SRQ Magazine with the Donor's Guide To Giving. Our region is known for its strong philanthropic spirit. Join us this May/June in recognizing and sharing your organization’s mission and your wish list with those who want to support you. Capture your story and engage our readership in your philanthropic work. Space closes Friday, October 20, 2023. Please reach out to your Account Executive or Robinson Valverde at robinson.valverde@srqme.com