Already one of the most celebrated restaurateurs in Venice, Steve Harner, owner of the Crow's Nest Marina Restaurant, was elected in September as the new board chairman for Sarasota-Manatee Originals. We spoke to him about the significance of the organization and his plans there.

What is the most important task for the Originals this year? We want to continue to raise the profile of independent restaurants in our market and emphasize that we are members of the community. We are parents and involved business people, volunteers and board members for other organizations. We are local in that we have locally sourced much of our food, whether it be shellfish, produce or even meats now. The money we make goes back into community. The jobs we provide are jobs here. We want to remind folks about that, and while there certainly is a change in town as far as the market, we want to make sure people are aware.  What changes have most affected independent restaurants? There has been change with the arrival of the Flemings, Ruth's Chris Steak Houses, Red Lobsters, Chili's. We cover fast casual to fine dining, all independently and locally owned, and independents have some advantages over chains. We adapt more quickly to changes in the market. We are more personal and make decisions in our own stores.  What are the most important things you'd like to see launched as new initiatives for the Originals? As far as our marketing and branding image, we need to make people are aware of who the Originals restaurants are, and that is what we strive to do. A part of what we do is educate members on the constantly changing and evolving tech world. We meet quarterly, talk social media and we talk about the preponderance of electronic reviews and how to deal with them. We are adaptable and a network that wants to share knowledge with one another, and that is our strength. Of course, our showcase event is at the end of January, Forks and Corks, and we're excited about that. Tickets are on sale in early November, and I think this is a premiere food and wine event in Sarasota and Manatee counties and a chance to show off our talents and wares.