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Sarasota News Leader November 29, 2013 Page 99 Siesta Seen initial renourishment of Lido Beach under the proposal. Big Pass never has been dredged. Further, worries have arisen that the planned groins will interrupt the natural downdrift of sand that has benefited Siesta Public Beach. The City of Sarasota has been working with the Corps on the project. Additionally, Visit Sarasota County has offered information showing tourism linked to Lido Beach has an annual economic impact on the county of approximately $155.6 million. BIDDING ADIEU TO KEVIN Members of the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce gathered late last week to bid goodbye to Executive Director Kevin Cooper, who has taken a job with the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce. Kevin Cooper has left his position as executive director of the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce. File photo Cooper offered his notice on Oct. 28, though he agreed to stay through the fourth annual Director and moving into his current position Siesta Key Crystal Classic Master Sand as Executive Director. Kevin has helped us not only retain our membership and increase Sculpting Competition, held Nov. 15-18. our stability but has brought a momentum Cooper will start Monday, Dec. 2, as vice presi- and energy to our Chamber as well. I truly do dent for public policy for the Greater Sarasota wish him all of the best and I know that we Chamber of Commerce, and he will oversee will likely cross paths in the future." the organization's Sarasota Tomorrow initiative, said Brittany Lamont, the Chamber's On a personal note, I would like to add that it was a great pleasure for me to work with communications manager. Kevin. Not only could I count on him to be Cooper told me he is very excited about the very informative when I asked questions, but new opportunity to serve the community. he also has an excellent personality for workIn a message to members, Chamber ing with the public. Chairwoman Maria Bankemper wrote, "Kevin Bankemper added in her note that a Search has been a great asset to the Chamber over Committee has been formed to find his the last 4 years, starting as the Membership replacement.