Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/166173
Sarasota News Leader September 6, 2013 Page 40 and what did not, to continue refining plans hind him, Blackketter stood before members for the park when he returned home. of the FISA Congress to accept the bid award for the 2017 World Rowing Championships. Benderson Development representatives even were working with Svetla Otzetova, the chief On Sept. 1 at 9:15 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time, architect for the Fédération Internationale the first email popped up in the county's pubdes Sociétés d'Aviron — the International lic folder with the subject line, "We got it ... Federation of Rowing Associations (FISA), telling world media!" Blackketter pointed out. She designs all the rowing courses used in the Olympics, he said. At 11:04 p.m. on Sept. 1 — Eastern Daylight FISA officials "actually designed this lake to Time — County Commission Chairwoman meet all their specs," he added as then County Carolyn Mason was the first board member Commission Chairwoman Christine Robinson back home to respond: "AWESOME!" and news media reps surveyed the lake from On Sept. 4, Benderson Park hosted a celebrathe bridge of the dredge. tion and show of thanks to government leadFlash forward to Sept. 2, 2013 in Seoul, South ers, sponsors and supporters who have strived Korea: With a Sarasota/Manatee delegation be- to help the facility achieve the goal. Paul Blackketter of SANCA and Commissioner Joe Barbetta give a 'thumbs up' in front of a World Rowing sign at Benderson Park on Sept. 4. Photo by Norman Schimmel