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SRQ DAILY Oct 26, 2017

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"People talk about going to ropes courses and escape rooms for team building. There's no better team exercise than shelter management."

- Todd Bowden, Sarasota County Superintendent
 

[Hurricane Irma]  Schools Bounce Back From Storms
Jacob Ogles, jacob.ogles@srqme.com

A major hurricane disrupted school this fall, but leaders of the school districts say they also showed the value of the educational institutions to the entire community. “This really was leadership training,” says Manatee County Superintendent of Schools Diana Greene. 

From running schools as 24-hour shelter facilities to reworking the school schedule on a moment's notice to account for lost school days, district officials say that when Hurricane Irma passed through the region it tested resources but also proved the mettle of county school staff. Todd Bowden, Sarasota County Superintendent of Schools says certainly there were lessons learned and every disaster should better prepare the district for the next challenge. “People talk about going to ropes courses and escape rooms for team building,” Bowden says. “There’s no better team exercise than shelter management.” Bowden had teams in 14 schools running shelters, with administrators from multiple nearby campuses working in tandem. And he found a wide cross-section of individuals that needed to be in the shelters during the storm, from indigent care recipients to company executives.

In Manatee, the district ended up opening 25 schools as shelters, the last one opening in Lakewood Ranch just hours before the storm. Greene says staff had to account for everything from keeping restrooms operational to making sure television sets worked—for news reports and to entertain gathered children stuck in a shelter with none of their normal comforts.

Bowden says Sarasota was lucky school started a week earlier this year than in 2016, making it easier to deal with the loss of school time to meet requirements for the year. Sarasota schools program an extra half hour each day, making it possible to meet standards. “Kids are incredibly resilient,” Bowden says. “Two days after the schools opened at these shelter sites, it was business as usual. It’s amazing how quickly they got back to normal routines.” Manatee couldn’t do that, but has been making sure students meet benchmarks and progress required by the state to make up for lost time. 

But Greene says one of the biggest problems related to hurricanes still facing the district is actually new students displaced by other storms. The Manatee district has about 40 students from Puerto Rico who were displaced by Hurricane Maria, in addition to students from Key West, which took a direct hit from Irma, and even some from the Houston area, which got savaged earlier this year by Harvey. “As superintendent, I'm making sure we are sending letters to each student welcoming them to the district and trying to connect them to other services,” Greene says. Whether that’s counseling to deal with the trauma or working with a homeless program coordinator to find a permanent place to stay, schools are doing their best with the displaced individuals, while also figuring out how to adjust their own resources depending on whether students come here temporarily or move to the area for good. 

[Ryan Flies]  From the Cockpit Part 43: ELA 07 Cougar
Philip Lederer, Phil.Lederer@srqme.com

Editor’s Note: This is part 38 of an ongoing series documenting the flights of active-duty US Navy Pilot Ryan Rankin on his journey to fly 52 planes in 52 weeks through the year 2017.

He’s flown airplanes and helicopters, mastered landing tailwheels in the brush and wrestled with both propellers and jet engines, hopping with ease from pleasure craft to warbird. But this week Rankin tackles a whole other beast—the gyroplane. A separate category of aircraft from airplanes, helicopters, balloons and gliders, Rankin’s flight certification doesn’t apply here.

His first gyroplane, Rankin’s initial assumption upon seeing the ELA 07 Cougar was that it would fly similar to a helicopter. “You look at it and it has a big rotor blade on top,” Rankin says in his defense. “But the controls are very much airplane-like.” Because that big rotor on top is actually unpowered and uncoupled. The Cougar does have an engine, of course, strapped to the back and powering a separate propeller positioned perpendicular to the aforementioned. Working the stick, it’s this propeller that the pilot controls, giving the gyroplane horizontal thrust down the runway like a plane. As wind rushes through the top rotor, it begins to spin. “Almost as if you were to blow on a fan,” explains Rankin. With enough speed, pilot and gyroplane reach liftoff.

An unpowered rotor responsible for flight may seem odd, but there are precedents. Many helicopters, for instance, are designed to purposefully uncouple their rotors upon engine failure, allowing the propeller to spin with the wind and achieve a softer landing.

But the gyroplane is not a helicopter, and taking off from Sebring, FL with Chris Lord of Gyroplaneguy.com, this makes Rankin very happy. “I felt more at home in this cockpit than a helicopter cockpit,” he says, reporting the transition to be “100 percent” easier. Whipping through the air in an open cockpit, Lord and Rankin dart to and fro at an impressively low altitude, again reminding him of the craft’s odd hybrid nature. “What it can do is more like a helicopter, but it flies like an airplane,” he says. “If that even makes sense.”

Back at Lord’s hangar, Rankin sees folks all sorts, even husband-and-wife teams, building their own Cougars. Built from kits, Lord imports them at about 49 percent completion; buyers can then take a bay in the hangar—equipped with tools and a TV with instructive video—and build the rest themselves.

A rather affordable craft, especially considering how pricey aircraft can get, Rankin understands the temptation to build his own. “I was blown away,” he says. “I can’t think of a flight I’ve had more fun on recently.”

For more about the flight in Rankin's own words and a video of the flight, follow the link below. 

Pictured: Ryan Rankin and Chris Lord fly the ELA 07 Cougar. Photo courtesy of Ryan Rankin.

Ryan Flies

[Daily Shop]  Let's Get Metaphysical
Dylan Howell, dylanh@srqme.com

Create tranquil vibrations with these Labradorite hand-carved figurines from Pixie Dust Metaphysical Boutique. Some believe that having Labradorite around a living space relieves anxiety and stress, either way this stone captures attention, pleasing the eye. Featuring images of Buddha and Ganesha (the Hindu God of good fortune often associated with prosperity, wisdom and learning), the new-age style of the small figures can easily compliment a reading lamp or bookshelf, adding a spiritual touch. The layers of the stone reflect light, displaying flashes of peacock blue and green with its natural edge.  

Pixie Dust Metaphysical Boutique, 1476 Main St., Sarasota. 941-366-6325.

[Exec Moves]  Tali Announces Departure from Sarasota Orchestra

Anu Tali has announced that at the end of the 2018/2019 season, following the completion of her current contract, she will step down as music director of the Sarasota Orchestra to focus on her international career and guest conducting. Tali will have served as music director for six seasons. Tali’s accomplishments with the Sarasota Orchestra are noteworthy. Since joining the organization in 2013, she has attracted an extraordinary group of guest artists from around the world, including the multi-Grammy Award-winning Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir. She conducted the American premiere of Erkki-Sven Tüür’s Strata and performed the debut performances in Florida of Heiner Goebbels’ Songs of Wars I Have Seen. Tali’s first three-year contract with the Sarasota Orchestra began in 2013.  In 2016, her contract was extended an additional three years through the spring of 2019. 

Sarasota Orchestra

[Recognition]  Resort at Longboat Key Club Ranked #5 Florida Resort

The Resort at Longboat Key Club has been named the #5 Florida resort in Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards. Now in its 30th year, the annual rankings of the world’s best hotels, resorts, cities, islands, airlines, airports and cruise lines compiles submissions from over 300,000 readers to determine the top ranking award winners in each category. This year, readers voted on a record-breaking 7,320 hotels and resorts. The Resort at Longboat Key Club also ranks as a Top 25 Marina in North America by Power and Motor Yacht Magazine, a AAA Four-Diamond Resort for the 36th consecutive year and was ranked as the  #6 Tennis Resort in the world by Tennis Resorts Online in 2017. 

The Resort at Longboat Key Club

[Exec Moves]  Tavarez Joins Sarasota Memorial Health Care System

Sarasota Memorial Health Care System has welcomed a new pediatrician to the health system’s First Physicians Group (FPG) network and community. Dr. Jose Tavarez began accepting new patients at FPG Pediatrics at Lakewood Ranch on Monday. Tavarez succeeds longtime pediatrician Dr. Robert Shamsey, who retired from the practice last month after more than 42 years. Board-certified in Pediatrics, Tavarez has worked as a pediatrician since 2013, providing medical and preventive care to infants, children and adolescents in outpatient and inpatient settings in Amory, MS, and has served as chair of the Pediatrics Department at Merit Health Gilmore Memorial Hospital in Amory for the past year. Bilingual in English and native Spanish, Tavarez is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics and American Medical Association. 

Sarasota Memorial Health Care System



[TODAY]  THEATER: A Little Night Music , October 26 – November 12, 8pm

Get whisked away by romantic nineteenth century waltz from Stephen Sondheim. His music is sure to transport listeners to a weekend in the country. Tickets are $27, $30 or $37, depending on seating.

Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 Third Ave. W., Bradenton

[TODAY]  BUSINESS: 2018 Best of SRQ Local Competition , February 12

The 10th annual “Best of SRQ Local” Readers’ Competition is officially open! It is time to sound the alarm, rally the troops, take to social media and VOTE for your favorite Sarasota establishments and causes to be recognized in one of our most popular editions of the year.

Readers can vote on local eats, shopping, arts, luminaries and hotspots culminating in the compendium published in the April 2018 edition of SRQ Magazine. We hope you’ll share your favorite local experiences—from stellar sushi, most memorable on-stage productions to best happy hour.

SRQ Magazine

[TODAY]  MUSIC: Charles Wesley Godwin , October 26, 8pm

A singer and songwriter born and raised in West Virginia, Charles' music has been shaped by his experiences growing up. His songs and stories, which center around his childhood spent in Appalachia, have captivated audiences with their one-of-a-kind sound.

Fogartyville Community Media & Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Ct., Sarasota

[SOON]  MUSIC: Driftwood , October 27, 8pm

Creating a name for themselves with electric performances, Driftwood has been a notable group to have come out of Binghamton, New York. Their musical palette is broad, with origins in the Americana and Roots scenes. 

Fogartyville Community Media & Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Ct., Sarasota

[SOON]  THEATER: The Rocky Horror Show , October 27 – October 31, Friday 8pm and midnight, Saturday 8pm and midnight, Tuesday 8pm

Get in the mood for Halloween with The Rocky Horror Show. Follow the story of newlyweds Brad and Janet as they seek shelter at a mysterious castle and meet the esoteric host Dr. Frank 'N' Furter and his creation Rocky. Catch the cult-classic musical and join in on the fun as an audience participant.

Venice Theatre, 140 West Tampa Ave., Venice

[SOON]  THEATER: Buddy Returns , October 29 – October 30, Sunday 8pm, Monday 3pm and 8pm

See Matt McClure come to life as Buddy Holly on stage, with. Watch him perform classic songs live in concert complete with Ritchie Valens and The Big Bopper. This high energy event is complemented by an engaging performance and a stellar cast. Tickets are $30.

Venice Theatre, 140 West Tampa Ave., Venice

[SOON]  MUSIC: Dan Bern , November 1

A singer, songwriter, guitarist, novelist and painter, Dan Bern is a jack of all trades. Most notable of all is his penchant for composing, having written over one thousand songs. His albums contain songs with influences from well-known artists including Bob Dylan, Woody Guthrie, Bruce Sprinteen and Elvis Costello. 

Fogartyville Community Media & Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Ct., Sarasota

[SOON]  THEATER: Moon Over Buffalo , November 2 – November 19

In the madcap comedy tradition of Lend Me A Tenor, this theatrical farce centers on George and Charlotte Hay, fading stars of the 1950s.  On the brink of a disastrous split-up caused by George’s dalliance with a young ingénue, the nearly washed-up stage duo receive word that they might just have one last shot at stardom!

The Players Theatre, 838 N Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

[SOON]  THEATER: Flaming Guns of The Purple Sage , November 2 – November 19, Tuesday to Saturday at 8pm; Sunday at 2pm

Jane Martin's bodacious and satirical play combines humor with horror. A rodeo competitor is facing hard financial times on her ranch where she helps injured cowboys. Find out what happens when she comes face to face with the one-eyed Black Dog, a Ukrainian biker. Tickets are $27 for adults, $17 for college students and $15 for children.

Venice Theatre, 140 West Tampa Ave., Venice

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Flip Flops & Fashion , November 2, 11:00AM

Get ready for an easy breezy afternoon with your toes in the sand Children First’s 10th Annual Flip Flops and Fashion Luncheon. Guests will gather together at Sharky’s on the Pier under a tent on the beach to enjoy dazzling views of the Gulf and tropical fare, while supporting at-risk children and families in our community. See fashionable finds from L. Boutique, Scout & Molly's and Sun Bug modeled by Children First supporters adorable children as well. There will be a chance drawing, an opportunity to purchase orchids and many other ways to support Children First.

Sharky's on the Pier , 1600 Harbor Drive South Venice, FL 34285

[SOON]  GALLERY: Fall Wonders , November 3, 6pm to 9pm

Fall into the new season with this gallery featuring the work of many local artists. This display will celebrate the seasons arrival with special work from individuals including Barbara Krupp, James Griffin and Bill Farnsworth. The exhibit will run through November 30. 

Dabbert Gallery, 46 South Palm Ave., Sarasota

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: La traviata , November 3 – November 21

Violetta, a famed Parisian courtesan, has lived a life of lavish parties with influential friends. She abandons it all to be with her beloved Alfredo, but when her past threatens his family’s honor, she must forsake her dream of love.
Verdi’s awe-inspiring music combined with a heart-breaking libretto has made La traviata one of the repertoire cornerstones of opera companies around the world.

Sarasota Opera , 61 N Pineapple Ave. Sarasota

[SOON]  GALLERY: Zimoun , November 3 – December 22, Opening Reception: Nov. 3, 5:30–8pm

The inaugural show of Alfstad&’s fifth season, the eponymously-titled exhibit features a site-specific installation, as well as two prints created by the internationally acclaimed Swiss artist. With simple and functional components, Zimoun builds architectural platforms of sound. His installations use commonplace industrial objects to explore mechanical rhythm and flow in prepared systems. The show also inaugurates Alfstad&’s new, totally reimagined artspace with an opening reception.

Alfstad& Contemporary, 1419 5th St., Sarasota

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Rockin Lobster , November 4, 6:30PM

Watch the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico while dining on delicious Maine Lobster on the beach at Rockin’ Lobster. The rockin' fun features live music by Version 3.0, delicious food, a silent auction and exciting beach activities. Be sure to stay for the lantern release, as Children First makes a wish and release a lantern in honor of a child and family in their program.

Sharky's on the Pier , 1600 Harbor Drive South Venice, Florida

[SOON]  FOOD: Brunch on the Bay , November 5, 11:30AM

The University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee’s signature annual event, Brunch on the Bay, will celebrate its 24th anniversary on November 5 marking over two decades of raising funds for local undergraduate scholarships. Around 18 of Sarasota and Manatee Counties’ finest restaurants and caterers will prepare some of their signature dishes for the event, held under tents on the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus. In the 23 years of Brunch on the Bay, the event has added over $1.3 million to the university endowment and generated over $1,000,000 in scholarships.

USFSM, 8350 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34243

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: SWAC Speaker Series , November 6, 5:30PM

Join the Sarasota World Affairs Council for a series of high–profile foreign affairs lectures covering current international issues ranging from foreign intelligence to peace negotiations to immigration and trade. This month, National Geographic Explorer in Residence, Alizė Carrėre will highlight her experience as a culture ecologist, climate researcher and writer visiting over 37 counties to document how humans are innovating and adapting in response to climate change. Each lecture is followed by a wine and cheese reception for members.

Mildred Sainer Pavillion, 5313 Bay Shore Road Sarasota, FL 34243

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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