BNI - Business By The Bay

Hi there,

I wanted to personally invite you to our upcoming BNI Open House—a great opportunity to connect with other driven professionals and see how structured networking can directly fuel business growth.

One of the key concepts we’ll be highlighting is “contact spheres.” These are groups of non-competing professionals who serve the same client base.

For example, a real estate contact sphere might include a realtor, lender, title company, inspector, and insurance agent. In construction, it could be a general contractor, plumber, electrician, roofer, and HVAC specialist.

When these businesses collaborate intentionally, they create a strong referral network where everyone benefits.
At our open house, you’ll:

Meet local business owners focused on growth

Learn how contact spheres generate consistent, high-quality referrals

See how BNI’s structured system builds lasting, strategic partnerships

Identify opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals in your field

If you’re looking to grow your business through meaningful relationships—not just surface-level networking—this is an event you don’t want to miss.

Let me know if you’d like more details or want to reserve your spot.

Van’s out here closing deals now… should we be worried? 😅

Last week, Kim Bontrager took home the Member Presentation win and earned the honor of bringing our BNI mascot Van along for the ride. This week, Van reported for duty at the closing table at Kauffman Thompson—pen in hand and ready to make it official.

Congrats again, Kim! Way to represent and put Van to work. 👏
Kauffman Thompson, PLLC

If you’re out and about on March 10th, make sure to stop by and check out the grand opening of the DD214 Rucksack Thrift Shop right here in Sarasota.

This amazing organization is dedicated to serving those who served by supporting local veterans in our community.

🗓 Grand Opening: March 10, 2026
📍 3675 Webber St, Sarasota, FL
🕛 Hours: 12 PM – 6 PM (Tuesday–Saturday)

You can help in a few simple ways:
✔️ Donate items
✔️ Shop for something you need
✔️ Volunteer your time

Every donation, purchase, and visit helps support local veterans.

Let’s show up for the people who showed up for us. 🇺🇸

📞 For more info: 941-928-5785

https://www.srqmagazine.com/2026/bosrq #//
Make sure you check this out and vote. Many of our members are among the nominees.

SRQ: Living Local in Sarasota and Bradenton Florida SRQ: Sarasota's Premier Magazine is the monthly city magazine for Sarasota, Manatee and the Gulf Coast Keys. With vibrant features and engaging content, SRQ is the indispensable must-read for affluent boomers, professionals and active retirees.

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