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SRQ DAILY Jan 24, 2017

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"There is a concerted effort to advance a project that would facilitate spring training in Sarasota County for the 2019 season."

- Thomas Harmer, Sarasota County Administrator
 

[Baseball]  Braves Complex Could Be Biggest in Area
Jacob Ogles, jacob.ogles@srqme.com

A sprawling athletic complex for the Atlanta Braves in North Port could end up as the biggest spring training campus for any of the Major League Baseball clubs in the area. Renderings of a plan, provided by the West Villages Improvement District and drawn by Lakewood Ranch-based firm Fawley-Bryant Architects, shows a new facility with space for sports uses beyond just baseball.

Renderings show how the athletic complex fit into the largely undeveloped improvement district, which today houses the Gran Paradiso neighborhoods and Islandwalk neighborhoods. West Villages planners will set aside 70 to 80 acres on site. 

Fawley-Bryant is a notable architecture choice both because the firm is based locally and because it developed sports venues including the renovated Pittsburgh Pirates stadium in Bradenton. The plans drawn up by the firm show a stadium with wrap-around boardwalk seating, an amenity familiar to those who have attended events at the Pirates facility. But beyond the stadium, there is room for five to seven practice fields, along with a number of smaller diamonds, and both a clubhouse and an academy for injured players undergoing rehabilitation. Grass parking areas also provide room for multi-purpose fields, with renderings showing capacity for six full-size soccer fields at the complex. West Villages spokeswoman Sondra Guffey stresses that the plans remain fluid and could change substantially before any construction were to take place.

Right now, the Baltimore Orioles play at Ed Smith Stadium in the City of Sarasota, their home since 2010 after a deal was reached for a $31-million renovation of that facility, and also use facilities at Twin Lakes Park south of the city. The Pirates signed a 30-year lease with Bradenton in 2008 after a $20-million renovation at McKechnie Field and Pirate City. The Pirates have trained in Bradenton since 1969.

Sarasota County commissioners will hear an update today on negotiations with the Braves, less than a week after the ball club announced it had entered into exclusive negotiations with the county about moving training from the ESPN Wide World of Sports in Lake Buena Vista to this area within two years. “There is a concerted effort to advance a project that would facilitate spring training in Sarasota County for the 2019 season,” County Administrator Thomas Harmer wrote in a memo to county commissioners. Jason Bartolotta, a Sarasota County spokesperson, says administration officials believe they are within three to six months of finalizing a deal with the team, and more specifics of any arrangement will be discussed at a meeting today. Representatives from the Braves are expected to be present. 

Costs for a stadium are estimated at $75-80 million right now and will be paid for in part with approximately $21 million in county funding from the tourist development tax. West Villages will provide the land at no public cost, and the City of North Port will also be asked to contribute along with state funding in the mix. Florida in recent years has awarded grants for spring training venues in an attempt to stop a migration of teams from the Grapefruit League to the Cactus League in Arizona. 

Rendering courtesy of West Villages Improvement District.

[Daily Shop]  Beach Bars
Kendall Sompolski

The perfect gift for your friends up north (most of whom are probably shaking from the cold), these adorable, scenic and fragrant Primal Element soap bars will have them wishing on shooting stars for a trip to the Sunshine State. Hand-made in Huntington Beach, CA, these vegetable glycerin soaps not only look the part, but also smell of cool notes of sea-spray and salt, lathering luxuriously after a day at the beach. The variety of fragrances, shapes and colors make it impossible to just choose one; with mermaids, seahorses, flowers, palm trees and starfish, the possibilities are endless. Located one block from the Gulf of Mexico adorned with driftwood and seashell garlands, Sand Dollar embodies the spirit and essence of Anna Maria Island, much like the sweet soaps found within. 

Sand Dollar Gift Shop, 5302 Marina Dr., Bradenton Beach, 941-778-2024.

[Spider Lily Finery]  Peekaboo Poncho
Kendall Sompolski

Swap your jacket for a poncho for this transitional season. The combination of delicate lace and sheer fabric make a poncho perfect for moving into spring while keeping your look updated and trendy. Available in both black and white, this bohemian chic style from Spider Lily Finery can easily elevate your look from day to night. Keep it casual for the farmers market on Saturday, wear it as a beach cover-up when you hit Siesta Key or dress it up for a fancy dinner downtown.

Add a long sleeve tee underneath when a random cold front rolls through or a tank top during mild spring days—the sheer lace and versatility of this poncho is ideal for the erratic weather Sarasota often experiences. Keep this poncho at the back of your closet so your daughter and friends don’t take it for their own! 

Spider Lily Finery, 2135 Siesta Dr., Sarasota, 941-296-1500.

[Exec Moves]  Sarasota Memorial Welcomes Spinal Expert Grissom

Sarasota Memorial Hospital has appointed Dr. Samuel P. Grissom, a national leader in physiatry and spinal cord injury treatment to guide and expand care in its new Rehabilitation Pavilion, scheduled to open this spring. Grissom also brings a new specialty to the area as the only physician certified in Spinal Cord Injury Medicine by the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in southwest Florida, according to the national credentialing organization. As Medical Director of Rehabilitation Services, Grissom will oversee a full spectrum of services to meet the complex medical, rehabilitation and mobility needs of people recovering from brain and spinal cord injuries, stroke and neurological disorders, and orthopedic and musculoskeletal conditions and work closely with Associate Medical Director David Siegel, MD, and Sarasota Memorial’s multi-disciplinary team of physicians and rehabilitation specialists. 

Sarasota Memorial Hospital

[Opening]  California Pizza Kitchen Opens Sarasota Store

California Pizza Kitchen has opened its first store in Sarasota at 192 North Cattlemen Rd. The approximately 6,000 sq. foot restaurant seats 200+ guests and features a dedicated indoor/outdoor bar with televisions, as well as an open kitchen centered around the open-hearth pizza oven where guests can watch their meals prepared from scratch. Natural elements like reclaimed wood seating, a fresh herb garden, colorful décor, reclaimed skateboard tile and Florida-inspired artwork add to the restaurant’s modern design and neighborhood feel. 

California Pizza Kitchen

[Recognition]  Community Foundation Renews National Accreditation

The Community Foundation of Sarasota County has renewed its accreditation with the nation’s highest standard for philanthropic excellence, the National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations, which establishes legal, ethical, effective practices for community foundations everywhere.The National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations program requires community foundations to document their policies for donor services, investments, grant making and administration every five years. With more than 500 community foundations already accredited nationwide, the program is designed to provide quality assurance to donors, as well as to their legal and financial advisors. National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations is the first program of its kind for charitable foundations in the United States. 

Community Foundation of Sarasota County



[TODAY]  PERFORMANCE: The Originalist , January 20 – March 5

Justice Antonin Scalia’s unexpected death at age 79 has thrown a wrench into the political arena, but has brought intense interest in this daring new stage play that had its world premiere at Arena Stage last spring. When a bright, liberal law school graduate embarks on a nerve-wracking clerkship with Justice Scalia, she discovers him to be both an infuriating sparring partner and unexpected mentor.

The Asolo Repertory Theatre , 5555 North Tamiami Trail Sarasota, 34243

[TODAY]  THEATER: Thrillers, Chillers and Killers , January 17 – January 29

Join the Crosely Estate for the next installment of their theatre series, Thrillers, Chillers and Killers. Murder and intrigue take center stage as your hosts from the past, Gwendolyn and Powel Crosely present an evening of three, chilling classic stories from Edgar Allen Poe, H.P. Lovecraft and Louisa May Alcott. 

Powel Crosely Estate , 8474 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243

[SOON]  GALLERY: Gaining Momentum , January 25 – February 11

madeby Gallery presents an exhibit featuring the work of Goldstein Library Muralist Julie Kanapaux. A contemporary abstract artist influenced by nature on both micro and macrocosmic scales, Kanapaux’s work is about perception and the universal connection in space. With a passion for art from an early age, Kanapaux is an Honors Graduate from Ringling College of Art and Design. Kanapaux will be at the exhibit for a Meet the Artist session at the opening from 7–8pm and again on Saturday, January 28, from noon to 2pm.

madeby Gallery, 2700 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

[SOON]  THEATER: Brownsville Song (b-side for tray) , January 25 – March 26

Brownsville Song by Kimber Lee is an award-wining play based on real-life tragedy and loss. Its a beautiful and compelling tale that sheds light on the cycle of violence and the strength of families in Brooklyn's inner city. The play will be held at the Gompertz Theatre.

Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 North Palm Avenue

[SOON]  SEMINAR: Former Israeli Ambassador Ron Prosor , January 25, 7pm

Ambassador Ron Prosor will speak about Israel’s foreign policy and its enduring but often volatile relationship with the U.S. Proser was a Israeli diplomat, writer and columnist. He served as Israel’s 16th permanent representative to the United Nations from June 2011 to October 2015. During his tenure, he was elected to the position of vice president of the UN’s 67th General Assembly. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at jfedsrq.org/events.

Temple Emanuel, 151 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota

[SOON]  GALA: A New Beginning Fashion Event , January 26, 11:30am–1:30pm

Selah Freedom presents their fourth annual A New Beginning Fashion Event from 11:30am–1:30pm at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Co–chaired by Tammy Karp and Donna Koffman, this fashion show and champagne luncheon will showcase stunning fashions from Selah Vie Boutique and Karen Roth Eco Luxe Resortwear, inspirational survivor stories and fabulous raffle prizes. Ticket and sponsorship opportunities are available. 

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  GALA: Masquerade Ball Vernissage , January 26, 6pm

Celebrate the original works of figurative artist Teresa Oaxaca at this special exhibition opening plus masquerade ball. Free and open to the public, revelers are encouraged to don masquerade-style costumes for a magical evening of dance, costumes and original oil paintings.

Southern Atelier, 7226 21st St. East, Sarasota

[SOON]  SEMINAR: Sarasota World Affairs Council January Lecture , January 26, 6:30pm

Join the Sarasota World Affairs Council for the next installment of their 2016–2017 lecture series on January 26 featuring Terry Garcia, the man responsible for the National Geographic Society Core Mission Programs that support and manage more than 400 scientific field research, conservation and exploration projects annually. Mr. Garcia will be the featured speaker during a unique and inspiring dinner event in celebration and support for the Sarasota World Affairs Council and Mote Marine Laboratory and their service to the Sarasota community. 

Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium , 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  BUSINESS: SB2 GOOD EDUCATION: Learning for a Lifetime , January 26, 7:30am–9:00am

Join us on Thursday, January 26, 2017 from 7:30-9:00am for the next installment of the 2016-17 SB2 Season on the adaptations going into innovative thinking in the K-100+ education experience with Keynote Speaker Mary Chance, President of the Consortium of Florida Education and panelists Jennifer Vigne of the Education Foundation of Sarasota County, Dr. Larry Thompson of Ringling College of Art and Design and Mireya Eavey of CareerEdge. Tickets $35/per person. Register online at www.srqsb2.com. Symposium location is at The Francis, Downtown Sarasota.

The Francis , 1289 N Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  SEMINAR: Women & Medicine , January 27, 10:30am–1:30pm

Don’t miss Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation’s Women & Medicine Interactive Luncheon on January 27at Michael’s on East. This year’s program will focus on women and cardiac health, showcasing the innovative and personalized services and treatments offered at Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Systems. This event will also highlight the hospital’s rehabilitative and community programs, designed to educate and empower us to take better care of ourselves, our families and our community. After a panel discussion, guests will have an opportunity to continue the health conversation and Q & A session.

Michaels on East , 1212 S East Ave, Sarasota, FL 34239

[SOON]  THEATER: Ideation , January 27 – March 12, Wed-Sat 8pm; Sun 2pm

Aaron Loeb brings a dark comic edge to this psychological suspense thriller, in which a group of corporate consultants work together on a mysterious and ethically ambiguous project. As the lines between right and wrong are blurred, these characters must navigate cognitive dissonances and moral dilemmas to decide for themselves if everything is as it really seems. Tickets range from $5-$28.

Urbanite Theatre, 1487 Second Street Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  THEATER: Next Fall , February 1 – February 12

Directed by Kathy Junkins, Next Fall portrays the ups and downs of an unlikely couple's five-year relationship with sharp humor and unflinching honesty. This play paints a beautiful and funny portrait of modern romance, asking the hard questions about commitment, love and faith. Tickets are $18. 

The Players Centre for Performing Arts, 838 N Tamiami Trail

[SOON]  FESTIVAL: Steak and Burger Celebrating Our Youth , February 3, 6:00pm

Cowboy-up and join the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County in celebrating our youth at the Steak and Burger Dinner at the Lee Wetherington Club.  Dawn your best western casual look, enjoy mouth watering food and an evening to remember. Table Sponsors start at $1,000 and individual tickets are on sale for $125.

Lee Wetherington Club, 3130 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL 34237

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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