On Wednesday, April 24, Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources received a donation of $65,000 from the Friends of Phillippi Estate Park, a chapter of Friends of Sarasota County Parks (FOSCP). This contribution is earmarked to support the ongoing 1916 historic Keith Farmhouse Restoration Project, a future interpretive center that will show the history and natural environment of the park. The donation brings the total to more than $200,000 that has been provided to the county from the Friends of Phillipi Estate Park in support of improvements to protect and enhance the historical and cultural significance of Phillippi Estate Park. April 24 also marked the conclusion of the Phillippi Farmhouse Market for the season. It was a poignant moment as Fred and Grace Whitehouse retired from their roles as managers of the Phillippi Farmhouse Market. However, they will continue their volunteer work serving on the FOSCP Board. During their 13-year tenure as market managers, they expanded the Phillippi Farmhouse Market from 19 vendors to more than 50 vendors, offering a wide array of produce and plants, prepared foods and specialty and sustainable items. Net proceeds from the market are donated to the renovation of the historic Keith farmhouse. The Whitehouse’s legacy will continue as Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources resumes management of the Phillippi Farmhouse Market next season, November 2024-April 2025. To learn more about the Phillippi Farmhouse Market, Phillippi Estate Park or the Friends of Sarasota County Parks, call 311 or visit www.sarasotacountyparks.com.