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SRQ DAILY Aug 25, 2017

Friday Weekend Edition

Friday Weekend Edition

"It's a real experience because as soon as you win you know that means production, and when you're a playwright that's your ultimate goal."

- Connie Schindewolf, playwright
 

[Theater]  Found Fossil Inspires New Play at The Players
Andrew Fabian

When someone imagines wildlife in Florida, they most often envision dolphins, alligators, snakes and, for the macabre, roaches and spiders. But between 10,000 and 12,000 years ago, the Florida landscape was trampled by the heavy feet of prehistoric elephants. In 2005, this extraordinary facet of the state’s past would receive a tangible talisman in the form of mammoth fossils collected at the site of a 2005 construction project at Palma Sola Golf Club.

Connie Schindewolf, the retired drama teacher and playwright behind Mammoth Bones, is a current resident at the golf club and in 2005 was among the many future residents fascinated by the historic find at their yet-to-be completed community. “When it happened, it just started going around in my brain and I knew I had to write a play that involved that,” says Schindewolf, who treats her writing like a full-time job. Fast-forward 12 years—or 10–12 thousand—and one can hear the echo of the mammoth’s call in Schindewolf’s play. Mammoth Bones centers on a man suffering from depression and anxiety who finds a mammoth bone while gardening. He is himself an out-of-date fossil, searching for meaning while his only child is off at college.

Schindewolf’s commitment to the craft won her the opportunity to witness the fruition of her first full-length production at Player’s Centre for Performing Arts, as winner of last year's New Play Festival competition, which saw budding playwrights from across the country submit their work for consideration. Five of the top plays are selected for an onstage read-through by actors, with only one being chosen to be fully produced with costumes and sets the following year. Mammoth Bones made the final cut last year and Schindewolf could not be more excited. “It’s a real experience because as soon as you win you know that means production,” says Schindewolf. “And when you’re a playwright that’s your ultimate goal.”

Mammoth Bones runs through August 27 at the Player’s Centre for Performing Arts with show times at 7:30pm on Friday and Saturday, and a 2pm matinee on Sunday. Tickets are $15. 

Pictured, from left: Jesse Rosenberg and Mark Shoemaker in "Mammoth Bones." Photo by Amanda Heisey.

[Politics]  Miller Resigns State House Seat
Jacob Ogles, jacob.ogles@srqme.com

The Gulf Coast’s political world scrambled on Monday, following news that state Rep. Alex Miller, R-Sarasota, was resigning her seat, citing business and family needs. Leaders in Tallahassee say the move came as a surprise. Gov. Rick Scott will call a special election to fill Miller’s seat.

During her time in the House, Miller sided with House Speaker Richard Corcoran against the governor on such major fights as funding business incentives, but also was a rare Republican in the House favoring Medicaid expansion. She just won the District 72 seat in November over Democrat Ed James III by a margin of 58.1 percent to 41.9 percent. Miller is also CEO for Mercedes Medical.

I'm very sad to see her go,” says Corcoran. “I believe Alex is a tremendous talent and will be successful in whatever she does. I absolutely trust her decision and wish her all the best and will always be thankful for her service.”

Joe Gruters, chairman of the Republican Party of Sarasota, served in the Legislature with Miller this year and considered her a “rock star.” But he said the job proved consuming to many political newcomers. “Politics is not an easy game,” he says. “It’s a difficult process. For someone as successful as Alex, I can see how she grew somewhat frustrated.”

Immediately upon the news, Republican James Buchanan announced he would now pursue the Sarasota-based seat in a special election rather than run in Bradenton-centered District 72. He likely won’t be the only entry, and the names of prominent Democrats and Republicans immediately floated around political circles. 

[RIP]  Mr. Downtown Dead at 91
Jacob Ogles, jacob.ogles@srqme.com

Downtown Sarasota mourned the loss of Paul “Mr. Downtown” Thorpe, a force in the city core for decades. He was 91.

The City of Sarasota recently honored Thorpe when it renamed Pineapple Park as Paul N. Thorpe Jr. Park. The long-time activist attended the dedication in a wheelchair. During his lifetime, Thorpe served as executive director of the Sarasota Downtown Merchants Association, founded the Sarasota Downtown Association and launched the first farmers market in the city.

Sarasota has been built on the efforts and passion of Paul. He didn't understand the meaning of no,” said former Sarasota City Commissioner Mary Anne Servian. “He always found a way to yes. Paul will always be remembered by me as an American hero. He fought bravely for his country, he loved his family deeply and he wore his heart on his sleeve for the City of Sarasota.” 

[Opening]  Station 400 Opening Third Location

Station 400 restaurant has announced it will be a part of the Landings revitalization with the grand opening of its third location this coming Monday, August 28. A favorite choice for breakfast and lunch among locals and visitors alike, both the Downtown Sarasota location (400 N. Lemon) and the Lakewood Ranch location (8215 Lakewood Main St.) have been voted Best Brunch and have earned Trip Advisors Certificate of Excellence. Menu choices include, Truffle Eggs Benedict, Lemon Curd & Blackberry Pancakes, Fried Green Tomato BLT and a specialty mimosa bar. The new location is located next to Publix in the Landings plaza at 4832 South Tamiami Trl. Breakfast and lunch is served daily 7:30am–2:30pm. 

Station 400

[Exec Moves]  Players Board Welcomes Massaro-Fain

The Players Centre for Performing Arts has announced the appointment of a new board member to The Players Board of Trustees, Angela Massaro-Fain. Massaro-Fain graduated with a BFA from the School of Visual Arts, New York. She is the founder of Grapevine Communications Inc., which operated as an award-winning, full-service ad agency from 1988 to 1998. Massaro-Fain partnered with John Fain in 2002 to re-establish Grapevine Communications International, Inc.—a full-service advertising, marketing and public relations firm serving clients nationwide—with a focus on Southwest Florida. By 2016, Grapevine rose to be the most award-winning agency in the seven-county region, with 16 full-time employees. In April 2017, they sold the Grapevine Communications brand and all its assets, though Massaro-Fain remains on during the transition period as executive creative director. 

The Players Centre for Performing Arts

[Exec Moves]  Wilson Appointed Selby Gardens Chair of the Board

Williams Parker has announced that shareholder Michael J. Wilson, a member of the firm’s management committee, has been appointed Chair of the Board of Trustees of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Wilson has served on the Board of Trustees since 2013, previously holding the position of secretary. Wilson practices tax, corporate and business law, handling sophisticated tax planning and tax controversy matters and advising clients on their most significant business transactions. He is certified as a tax specialist by the Florida Bar and handles federal, state and international tax planning matters. Wilson also advises clients on sales, acquisitions, mergers, joint ventures, private equity and venture capital investments, capital raising transactions, tax-exempt bond financings, credit facilities, business succession, corporate governance and other business and commercial transactions. 

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens



"Fun Series #1" by Mark Muench. State of the Arts Gallery.

[TODAY]  GALLERY: Painting Tropical Birds of Florida , August 25 – August 27

Join us in the Jungle Gardens for quick sketching of the tropical birds of Florida from life. Using these sketches, artists will then return to the studio to create paintings of life energy and vibrant colors. 

Southern Atellier , 7226 21st St. E., Sarasota

[TODAY]  FESTIVAL: Jah Movement Reggae Band at Van Wezels Friday Fest , August 25, 5pm

Jah Movement Reggae Band return to the Van Wezel’s FREE outdoor concert series Friday Fest bringing their infectious groove to the bay for the second year in a row on Friday, August 25th. Winners of Creative Loafing’s 2016 ‘Best Local Reggae Band’, Jah Movement feature a glorifying sound where individual talents of each member come together. Highlighting the talented ensemble is vocalist Shantel Norman, hometown hero, who will be celebrating her birthday with this Friday Fest party. Adding their own touch of R&B, soul and funk to some of the best live reggae music, it’s always a surprise to see which popular songs they will pull out of the box at the show. 

Van Wezel, 777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236

[WEEKEND]  GRAB BAG: The Sixth Annual ChalkFest , August 26

For the sixth year in a row, Englewood’s ChalkFest will transform the Dearborn Street sidewalk into an oversized canvas for chalk-art masterpieces. Professional artist demonstrations include the creation of atrompe l’oeil –or visual illusion—work of art by Johan Bjurman, a noted classically trained painter. This day of discovery will also feature fun prizes and a people’s choice award. The ChalkFest is free and sponsored by the Englewood Art Center, a division of Ringling College of Art and Design, and is presented by the Pioneer Days Committee as part of Englewood’s popular Pioneer Days festival. 

Englewood Art Center and the Pioneer Days Committee

[WEEKEND]  THEATER: Kim Kollar presents BABS! Badass Broads of Song , August 26 – August 27

VT’s own “BAB” Kim Kollar pays tribute to some of the best female vocalists of all time. She’ll be belting her face off to songs such as “Before the Parade Passes By,” “I Miss the Mountains,” “Worst Pies In London,” and many more!

Pinkerton, 140 Tampa Ave. W., Venice

[SOON]  GALA: Women Realtor Luncheon Fashion Show , September 6, 11:00am

The Women’s Council of Realtors Sarasota Chapter will be holding their annual Fashion Show on Wednesday, September 6th at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota for an anticipated audience of over 500 participants.  Fashions for the ladies are from designer Camilyn Beth and men’s fashion provided by Martin Freeman. Cutting Loose Salon has volunteered their services for the models.  The Boutique with over 15 merchants will open at 10:30 with the fashion show commencing at noon.  In addition to the exciting show, there will be a live auction donated by Vanessa Fine Jewelry featuring a KABANA designer 14 karat yellow gold pendant with inlaid bronze mother of pearl and diamonds along with a “Lottery Tree.”  The event will also hold a silent and Chinese auction with amazing packages for bidding. Purchase your tickets online to ensure your attendence and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Mothers Helping Mothers.

 

Hyatt Regency Sarasota, 1000 Boulevard of the Arts Sarasota, Florida 34236

[SOON]  THEATER: The Goldtones , September 9, 8pm

The Goldtones have been called the “hottest doo-wop group in Florida” and entertain their audiences with the sweet sounds of street-corner harmony and all those favorites from the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s. The group is back by popular demand after performing at Venice Theatre for three years in a row. Tickets are $22.

Venice Theatre, 140 West Tampa Ave.,Venice

[SOON]  SEMINAR: 3rd Annual Lifelong Learning Showcase Event , September 13, 8:30am-2:00pm

The annual showcase is an exciting, jam-packed, one-day event for lifelong learners to experience the best instructors and topics our region has to offer. Hosted by the SunCoast Alliance for Lifelong Learning, this popular event is now in its third year.  The event includes 24 course sessions of which participants may choose four to attend, continental breakfast, a box lunch, exhibits, sponsor merchandise and more. A special Keynote speaker will also be present, Louise Gallagher an Educator and Certified Life Coach, will be giving an informed and insightful talk about “retirement: who needs it?”. Registration begins Monday August 7th and the price of the ticket includes all the classes and meals. Put your thinking cap on and get into the back to school spirit because SunCoast Alliance for Lifelong Learning can't wait to teach you something new!

RCLLA Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota, FL 34237,

[SOON]  GALA: 12th Annual Intertape Polymer Group Leadership Breakfast , September 15, 7:30am-9:00am

On Friday, September 15, the Boys & Girls Club of Sarasota County will present the 12th Annual Intertape Polymer Group Leadership Breakfast; celebrating community members who support youth as leaders in our community. The honorees this year are CEO of PGT Industries, Rod Hershberger, and Director of Sarasota County Library System, Sarabeth Kalajian. The event takes place at the Lee Wetherington Boys & Girls Club from 7:30-9:00am. Cost is $50 for an individual ticket. For tickets and sponsorship opportunities, please call 941-366-3911.

Lee Wetherington Boys & Girls Club , 3100 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL 34237

[SOON]  HEALTH: Grey Matters: A Symposium on Alzheimer's Research , September 22, 11am-1:30pm

The Roskamp Institute is hosting a Brain Health and Awareness Symposium this September the 22nd at The Sarasota Yacht Club. The aptly named Grey Matters Symposium will offer a deep dive into current Alzheimer’s research by Institute Directors and will be moderated by ABC7’s Hayley Wielgus. There will be a presentation, interactive panel, and an opportunity for Q & A. For more information or to become a sponsor today please call (941) 552-9832 or visit www.roskampinstitute.org/events.

Sarasota Yacht Club , 1100 John Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: iconcept jr 2017 , September 24, 12:00pm

Twenty-five young designers will use their problem solving and creative skills to create outfits from repurposed and unconventional materials. The incredibly talented designers will showcase their creations in an exciting runway fashion show.

Art Center Sarasota , 707 N. Tamiami Tr., Sarasota

[SOON]  BUSINESS: SB2 Rumble: How Will STOP! Impact Our Economy and Growth? , September 26, 5:30-7pm

What will be the impact of the recent STOP! movement on economic growth and the quality of projects in our region? Join us at the Mildred Sainer Pavlion at New College for lively debates on issues that some consider “too hot to handle” where our modified Oxford-style debate gives us civil discourse designed to sway through both factual information and rhetorical skill. Attendees are asked their position on the topic of the day before and after the debate–the success of the participants being judged on those they sway from their initial positions. 

Mildred Sainer Pavilion, New College, 5313 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL 34243

[SOON]  THEATER: The Will Rogers Follies , September 28 – October 15

Anyone who has heard of Will Rogers knows his signature phrase:  “I’ve never met a man I didn’t like”. This philosophy is the jumping off point for this showy piece of Americana that follows his many accomplishments as well as his tumultuous personal life. It was the winner of the Tony Award for Best Musical and Best original score!

The Players Theatre, 838 N Tamiami Trl., 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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