Lambda Alpha International (LAI) is commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence with a special series of tours hosted by the seven LAI Eastern Region chapters: Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, FL Suncoast, New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.
The first event in the series, called One by Land, Two by Sea Tours, was hosted by the LAI FL Suncoast Chapter. Over three days in late February 2026, the chapter welcomed distinguished LAI members from across the globe to the Sarasota–Bradenton region, including Chicago Chapter members Donna Pugh, Laurie Marston, Greg Wernisch, Ty Warner, Christine Carlyle, and guest Rico Cedro.
Day 1- Land Economics Dialogue
The program opened with the one‑day Sarasota Land Economics Dialogue (LED), where local leaders and nonprofit organizations examined regional challenges surrounding water management, climate resilience, and sustainability initiatives.
Morning presentations explored Sarasota’s Indigenous heritage, ecological evolution, regional development patterns, and associated environmental impacts. In the afternoon, participants joined in facilitated brainstorming sessions focused on strategies to address these environmental impacts—particularly those tied to water. Discussions were energetic, insightful, and enriched by diverse regional perspectives.
Guests then gathered at the Gulf Coast Community Foundation Philanthropy Center for an opening reception featuring keynote speaker Jennifer O. Rominiecki, President and CEO of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens—an institution globally known for its extensive collection of bromeliads and orchids and its storied history.
Day 2- Land Tours
The second day launched with immersive tours. Highlights included Nathan Benderson Park, the world‑class rowing venue repurposed from a former shell excavation pit; University Town Center, the well-known master‑planned community; and the Sarasota Audubon Nature Center, located in the heart of the 440-acre Celery Fields which is the County’s primary stormwater collection zone, home to 250 species of birds, and has a special link to Chicago: it was originally cultivated by Bertha and Potter Palmer as a celery farm.
Day 3- Sea Tours
On the third day, attendees enjoyed an ecological and historical boat tour of Sarasota Bay, followed by a session at the Bayfront Community Center focused on the planning and public engagement process for The Bay Park, concluding with an on‑site tour of the park itself. The closing reception was held at Sage Restaurant, located in the historic Sarasota Times Building—constructed in 1925 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1984.
This outstanding program was made possible thanks to the tireless efforts of our hosts: John McCarthy, Selby Gardens Vice President of Regional History; Holly Elmore, FL Suncoast Chapter President; and Sara Kane, Sarasota County Extension and Sustainability Office.
