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SRQ DAILY Sep 28, 2024

Saturday Perspectives Edition

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Saturday Perspectives Edition

"People are vital to building a company and culture"

- Vladimir Durshpek, D-Trans LLC.
 

[]  Nature Courses Through Midnight Pass Debate
Jacob Ogles, jacob.ogles@srqme.com

No issue has so clouded the question of what constitutes environmental presentation as much as Midnight Pass. A waterway closed down in the 1980s for clearly selfish reasons, boaters and barrier island residents for decades fought for the waterway’s reopening, as environmental agencies and activists argued this would disrupt an ecology that came to exist over nearly a half century.

But a funny thing happened as Hurricane Helene pummeled Florida’s Gulf coast. The same storm surge devastating neighborhood and relocating boats from docks to highways also re-opened Midnight Pass.

Video shared on social media by numerous sources showed water clearly flowing Friday between the Gulf of Mexico and Little Sarasota Bay.

I’ll leave it to marine biologists to determine if this ultimately will be good or bad for the environment. But it’s an odd twist, presuming it sticks, for the struggle between the “We Dig Midnight Pass” crowd and those who say it would be a boondoggle for man to try and control ocean currents.

Sarasota County Commissioners just this month voted to begin a lobbying effort for the Florida Legislature to review laws prohibiting the reopening of the pass. It’s hardly the first time the county has pushed forward with plan to dredge open a channel. The Florida Legislature this year also budgeted $500,000 to study the benefits and ramifications of such a project.

It’s unclear what the ramifications will be on the fight to spend millions in taxpayer dollars on something that just happened on its own Thursday night or Friday morning. 

Of course, that assumes this environmental development sticks.

Glenn Compton, chair of Manasota-88, has put up arguably the most consistent opposition to dredging midnight pass for decades. He has his doubts whether some storm surge will genuinely reopen the pass for any meaningful period of time.

He has long argued that the tidal flow around Sarasota’s barrier island shifted considerably since 1983, and that even if the government dredged the pass open, it’s doubtful the efforts would be successful, it would quite likely close again on its own. “I’m doubtful it’s going to remain open for any period of time,” he said.

But while it is? Well, it looks like Sarasota will endure a real scientific experiment and the consequences of letting it flow. Those longing for re-opening say it proved catastrophic to the environment that existed decades prior when the waterway closed and promises to big a new pass to the north went unfulfilled. Opponents of reopening the pass long argued the estuary environment now would be compromised by saltwater intrusion of the Gulf.

But the funny part of the argument to leave nature as it is sits today is that nature just changed on its own yesterday. A Category 4 hurricane arguably isn’t the same thing as natural evolution, growth and adaptation over 40 years. But it wasn’t a man with a bulldozer and county permit who created this change, but a giant storm named Helene.

Social media now brims with people volunteering to dig the soft sand at the bottom of the shallow pass. And I know many long dreamed of a channel deep enough for boats the pass, not just the wading that takes place now. Bad weather may have just delivered the outcome politics had yet to achieve. And it did so in a way that leaves even the most recalcitrant willing to let the sweater run its course.

“If mother nature determines to reopen the Pass,” Compton said, “then so be it.” 

Jacob Ogles is contributing senior editor for SRQ MEDIA. 

Image courtesy Jesse Biter: Aerial footage of Midnight Pass after Hurricane Helene.

[Economic Development Corporation]  Full Circle: The Story of the Collaboration Between D-Trans, LLC and The EDC of Sarasota County
Erin Silk, esilk@edcsarasotacounty.com

Located in a bustling corporate park off Jacaranda Boulevard in Venice, D-Trans LLC's new corporate headquarters is not only open for business, but it is also a beautiful building. When entering the pristine office, a person's eyes are drawn to the natural beauty that can be seen outside every window. The corporate office and bonded warehouse facility were thoughtfully designed to service their nationwide freight operations while embracing the beauty of Florida's natural fauna. As a full-service trucking and logistics company, D-Trans is dedicated to the service-sensitive sector and high-value shippers, providing advanced security and reliability. Their new facility adds 25,000 sq. ft. to the company's footprint in Sarasota County. The journey to this successful point was challenging, but D-Trans never wavered.

D-Trans was co-founded in September 2005 by Vladimir (Vlad) and Tanya Durshpek in Portland, Oregon, only five months after they were married. It consisted of one truck. Vlad had always aspired to work in the trucking and logistics industries. Tanya played a vital role in the establishment of D-Trans. She did everything, from working on operational policies to overseeing the company's finances and working together with her husband to ensure the company's success.

In 2008, the Durshpeks moved their business to Sarasota County. Over the next decade, the staff grew to 40 employees, serving most of the United States. It was in 2020 that Vlad first contacted the Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County (EDC). Shortly after, the teams started working together. The EDC assisted Vlad and Tanya as they embarked on a growth plan to double their staff and capabilities. The EDC became part of their project team, helping to navigate the permitting processes, utility hookups, and much more.

D-Trans will expand its capabilities in its new corporate headquarters, adding 50 new team members over the next three years. "People are vital to building a company and culture," says Vlad.

As D-Trans continues to prosper, the EDC will remain a key partner. Vlad and his team are now eager to give back to the community that has supported them by helping other local entrepreneurs and contributing to the economic development of Sarasota County. This commitment to supporting our community is a testament to why small businesses like D-Trans are vital to a vibrant Sarasota County.

The Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County is a team of engaged public and private leaders committed to being the catalyst for a sustainable, globally competitive, vibrant economy. Their mission is to grow and diversify the economy of Sarasota County while enhancing its unique natural and cultural environment. To learn more about the EDC of Sarasota County, visit www.edcsarasotacounty.com. 

Pictured: The D-Trans team (l-r) Dina, Eugene, Vladimir and Tanya Durshpek. Photo by Lori Sax.

To learn more, visit.

[On Recovery]  Selby Gardens Update After Helene
Jennifer Rominiecki

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, I hope that you and your loved ones are safe.  All of you are in my thoughts. Many have inquired about how both campuses of Selby Gardens fared with the storm, so I wanted to provide a brief update following the initial assessments we have made.

The Downtown Sarasota campus was affected by storm surge and, as you can imagine, has debris to be cleared. The docks and decking appear to be lifted up in some areas by the surge and will need attention. However, I am happy to report that all buildings appear to be okay. The Green Orchid restaurant opened for lunch today, as well as the area of the gardens surrounding the Jean Goldstein Welcome Center and Morganroth Family Palm Promenade. The rest of the gardens will be roped off to the public until debris is cleared.

At the Historic Spanish Point campus, the seawall at the point collapsed and will need attention. The small bridge broke up, and the Packing House dock will likely need attention. Some of the pathways were washed out and will need to be replaced with new shell gravel.  However, I am happy to report that all buildings appear to be okay. The campus has no power, and will need to remain closed until the power is back on.

Please check selby.org and our social media channels (Facebook and Instagram) for updates on the status of both campuses.  We hope to be fully up and running soon to provide you with the refuge and respite of our bayfront sanctuaries. Sending you wishes for a safe recovery.

Jennifer Rominiecki is president and CEO of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. 

Photo courtesy Selby Gardens.



[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Fresh Harvest Farmers Market at Wellen Park , June 25 – May 31, 9 am to 1 pm

Visit Fresh Harvest, the newly launched weekly farmers market in Downtown Wellen. Fresh Harvest offers a selection of local goods from nearly 40 local vendors. Fresh Harvest takes place every Sunday in Downtown Wellen from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Attendees can peruse different vendor booths and stock up on a variety of goods. Vendors will offer a wide variety of locally grown and produced food, including herbs, spices, cut flowers, teas, canned and preserved fruits and vegetables, syrups, baked goods, pickled foods, fresh seafood, meats, poultry, eggs, milk and prepared food and beverages. A limited selection of craft vendors also participate in the farmers market. For a listing of participating vendors and more information on Fresh Harvest Farmers Market, visit wellenpark.com/events/fresh-harvest-farmers-market. Downtown Wellen, 19745 Wellen Park Blvd., Venice.

[SOON]  GALLERY: Flora & Fauna , August 15 – September 28, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

This show invites artists to celebrate characters of the natural world, real and imagined, living and extinct, peaceful and poisonous. Nature is mankind’s greatest muse when creating art, and there is a long and rich history of artists representing plants and animals in their artwork, often with layered and hidden meanings. Artists of all media are encouraged to submit!

ArtCenter Sarasota, 707 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota FL 34236

[SOON]  FESTIVAL: Adopt-A-Palooza , September 28, 11:00am - 3:00pm

Adopt-A-Palooza is the largest one-day pet adoption and expo event in Manatee County, featuring over 100 adoptable pets from Manatee County Animal Welfare (MCAW), local shelters, and animal rescues—all under one roof! The announcement of this event comes at a critical time. Our county shelters are currently at full capacity with 62 cats, more than 115 dogs and 3 rabbits.

Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd Palmetto, FL 34221

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Sitting' Up in my Room , September 28, 3:00pm & 7:00 pm

Step into the intimate world of "Sittin' Up In My Room," a vibrant one-woman show where a young Black woman embarks on a journey of self-discovery within the confines of her bedroom—the ultimate sanctuary. This comedic yet heart-wrenching performance is a celebration of resilience and the sacred space where we confront our deepest selves. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions and revelations that are as thought-provoking as they are entertaining

Sarasota Contemporary Dance, 1400 Blvd of the Arts Ste 300, Sarasota FL 34236

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Let Freedom Read Day , September 28, 1:00-3:00pm

"Forward For Freedom: Leading Educators Tell Their Stories," features three exciting speakers on LET FREEDOM READ DAY (Sat, Sept 28), during Banned Books Week 2024. It is a free community event designed to recognize and celebrate librarians and teachers, and all others who value the First Amendment rights to freedom of expression, and freedom of the press.

Unitarian Universalists of Sarasota sanctuary, 3975 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL 34232

[SOON]  : Heroes and Hostages: A Journey of Courage and Sacrifice , September 29, 3:00pm

Sarasota Jewish Theatre (SJT) is honored to present a special program to commemorate the October 7, 2023 terrorist attack in Israel. “Heroes and Hostages: A Journey of Courage and Sacrifice,” presented in collaboration with the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, The Players Centre, and the Sarasota Jewish Chorale, will feature speakers, music, dance, and videos.

The Players Centre Studio, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota FL 34239

[SOON]  MUSIC: Baroque Banquet , September 29, 4:oopm

A veritable feast of Baroque gems opens the Chamber Soirée season. Ceremonial brass set the stage for J.S. Bach's festive Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 for strings. The percussion have their moment with Philidor’s March for Two Pairs of Timpani, which was first performed for King Louis XIV in 1683. Igor Stravinsky's glorious Neo-Baroque Pulcinella Suite concludes this royal banquet.

Holley Hall, 709 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota FL 34236

[SOON]  FESTIVAL: October Fresh , October 4, 7:00pm - 10:00pm

Do you feel a slight change in the air? Kick off your Fall festivities with Season Four of Fresh Fridays! Celebrate the vibrancy of downtown Sarasota and say farewell to those hot summer months. OctoberFresh will take place on Main Street between Palm and Pineapple Avenue. You will find the stage for the evening adjacent to First Watch Restaurant and our lineup of hospitality vendors placed along lower Main Street! 

Main Street - Downtown Sarasota, Main Street between Palm and Pineapple Avenue Sarasota FL

[SOON]  FESTIVAL: Taste of the Beaches Kickoff Party , October 4, 6:00 pm

In addition to the live music, attendees can enjoy an exclusive silent auction featuring a variety of unique items, including everything from hotel stays and fishing charters to gift cards and bottles of wine. The event will also include a raffle, Taste of the Beaches ticket sales, and delicious food and beverages available for purchase." You can join us for the inaugural Kickoff party at 6 p.m. in Horan Park. This free event is open to the public and will feature a live music performance in collaboration with the City of St. Pete Beach's October Concert series, making it a perfect evening for locals and visitors. In addition to the live music, attendees can enjoy an exclusive silent auction featuring a variety of unique items, including everything from hotel stays and fishing charters to gift cards and bottles of wine. The event will also include a raffle, Taste of the Beaches ticket sales, and delicious food and beverages available for purchase.

Horan Park , 7701 Boca Ciega Drive St. Pete Beach, Fl 33706

[SOON]  FESTIVAL: Pink Together: Breast Cancer Warriors Celebration , October 13, 11:00 am - 3:00 pm

The "Pink Together: Breast Cancer Warriors Celebration" is set to be an inspiring day of hope, unity, and community support. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear powerful stories from local breast cancer warriors who have bravely faced their journeys with strength and resilience. The event will also feature live music from two bands, including the popular Dr. Dave Band, creating a lively and uplifting atmosphere.

Motorworks Brewing, 1014 9th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: The Ringling Art of Performance | NocheUnidos , October 18, 7pm

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage month with UnidosNow and The Ringling at the third annual NocheUnidos, a collaboration between The Ringling and UnidosNow. This elegant evening, held in the magical Museum of Art Courtyard, features dining, dancing, music, and fellowship that honor the rich and dynamic cultures that have influenced our Gulf Coast community, including the African diaspora, Indigenous America, and Europe. The event kicks off with festive Puerto Rican rhythms from Bomba Yemayá and parades into the night with an upbeat Mardi Gras spirit captured by the New Orleans-based 79rs Gang. Dress in white to call in the season with elegancia as we come together to honor unity and the riches of our region.

Historic Asolo Theater (HAT), 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota

SRQ Media Group

SRQ DAILY is produced by SRQ | The Magazine. Note: The views and opinions expressed in the Saturday Perspectives Edition and in the Letters department of SRQ DAILY are those of the author(s) and do not imply endorsement by SRQ Media. Senior Editor Jacob Ogles edits the Saturday Perspective Edition, Letters and Guest Contributor columns.In the CocoTele department, SRQ DAILY is providing excerpts from news releases as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by SRQ DAILY. The views expressed by individuals are their own and their appearance in this section does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. For rates on SRQ DAILY banner advertising and sponsored content opportunities, please contact Ashley Ryan Cannon at 941-365-7702 x211 or via email

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