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SRQ DAILY Nov 2, 2017

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Freshly Squeezed Content Every Morning

"Even though we're going through a painful situation, we're also thinking positive."

- Javier Rodriguez, artist
 

[Philanthropy]  A Rallying Cry for Recovery in Puerto Rico
Philip Lederer, Phil.Lederer@srqme.com

Since Hurricane Maria made landfall in Puerto Rico in late September, the rebuild has been slow, with many individuals and families still lacking power, clean water and shelter. For local artist and Ringling College alum Javier Rodriguez, born in Puerto Rico, this meant watching friends and family lose homes and struggle in the storm’s aftermath. “I wasn’t going to be able to help them,” he says. “I might have been able to send a little money or resources, but I know they need more.” But through his latest venture, Vamó Arriba Puerto Rico, Rodriguez hopes to use his art to rally his new home to help his former one.

Translating roughly to “Let’s go, Puerto Rico,” the project pays homage to a common Puerto Rican rallying cry. Other Spanish-speaking countries will understand it, says Rodriguez, but the phrase holds a particular resonance with the population, enough to almost be considered slang in its own right. Together with an image of Rodriguez’ own design—an unflinching eye presented in the artist’s distinct and dramatic style—the mantra appears on every t-shirt that Rodriguez produces for Vamó Arriba Puerto Rico. Selling for $20 ($30 if shipped), profits from all sales will go toward recovery efforts in Puerto Rico.

“We’re planning on giving everything,” says Rodriguez, with the only funds not going directly to Puerto Rico, going straight to material costs for Vamó Arriba Puerto Rico to continue its mission. Eager to get started, Rodriguez and his mother paid for the first shipment of shirts themselves, confident that others would want to help. As a result, the project is still determining which charities, churches, nonprofits and community recovery actions will receive proceeds. Some, says Rodriguez, will go to families and communities that he and others from the area know specifically need help. “We have immediate family that needs help,” he says, “but I’m also thinking about Puerto Rico in general. They’re all going through the same thing.”

Rodriguez actually painted the image prior to the project, with one small but meaningful change—a single tear escaping the eye. He removed it. “I want people to think positive,” he says. “Even though we’re going through a painful situation, we're also thinking positive.”

Those interested in supporting Vamó Arriba Puerto Rico can contact Rodriguez through Facebook or Instagram. 

[Community]  Manatee Parks Opens Dialogue for Master Plan
Andrew Fabian

Manatee County currently boasts 70 park locations encompassing nearly 28,000 acres including athletic facilities, preserves and community parks—quite a bit of green space to manage, maintain and utilize. In an effort to update facilities and accommodate ever-changing demographics, Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources will host three town hall meetings in November to give area residents and stakeholders a final opportunity to contribute their ideas to the 15-year Parks Master Plan.

“We’re going back to the community,” says Danny Hopkins, Recreation Division Manager for Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources, “to talk about what our findings are and present our validated strategic initiatives.” One of the biggest focal points are the athletic facilities, which, in addition to being heavily used and congested by local residents, are also utilized for hosting regional and state athletic tournaments. Hopkins says it’s about trying to find a balance that allows the county to “keep a high-quality standard but at the same time address all of the current demands.” The Master Plan will also address the county’s environmental land holdings, focusing on responsible access to help reduce the human imprint on waterways and preserves. “These are very special parks, and they have to be viewed that way,” he says.

To help fund the refurbishment of facilities and the continued preservation of natural spaces, the county implemented a half-cent infrastructure sales tax. “The tax is a blessing,” says Hopkins, as many of the county’s facilities were built in the 90s and are near the end of their lifecycle, in some cases requiring a complete demolition and rebuild.

Parks and preserves offer obvious economic impacts to the county, attracting everything from vacation and nature tourism to out-of-town athletes in search of great weather and championships. In addition, parks systems are one of the many things that businesses look for when choosing a headquarters, as the systems factor heavily into an area’s quality of life index. But for Hopkins and the county parks staff, “it’s not just about a single swing set or a place to play ball,” he says. “I see it as connecting communities and developing the concept of health and well-being.”

The first meeting will be held at Central Library on Nov. 6 at 7:30pm. On the 8th and 9th the meetings will start at 6pm but will be hosted at the Parrish YMCA and John H. Marble Recreation Complex, respectively. 

[Ryan Flies]  From the Cockpit Part 44: Lockwood Aircam
Philip Lederer, Phil.Lederer@srqme.com

Editor’s Note: This is part 44 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.

Rankin continues his year of aviation exploration with another standout aircraft—the Lockwood Aircam. Built in-state over in Sebring, FL, the Aircam may look like a banana or a flying catamaran, but gave Rankin one of his wildest flights yet. It helps when the copilot’s a little wild too.

Built in 1995 for the National Geographic Society, the Aircam was designed as the optimal craft to research and photograph the Ndoki Rain Forest in what is today the Republic of the Congo. Performing its job admirably, the Aircam made its name on that assignment as an exceptional photo platform and continues to sell today as a kit plane. Though sizable, and one of the rare multi-engine kit planes, the Aircam retains the simplicity that Rankin has come to appreciate from kit planes. “They take out all the fluff,” he says. At its core, Rankin believes, flying is simple and there’s beauty in that simplicity.

Approaching the plane, Rankin admits to some initial skepticism. But after 30 to 40 minutes flying around with the Aircam’s owner, Robert Meyer, he pulled a 180 almost as fast as the Aircam. Great for sightseeing and cruising, the Aircam turns to also be surprisingly nimble. “A lot more agile than I was expecting,” Rankin says. Yanking and banking across the sky, ducking below the treeline to track the river’s winding path through the branches, Meyer pushes Rankin to find the plane’s limits for himself. “He was encouraging me the whole time to go harder,” says Rankin. “That’s not something you usually hear.”

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

Pictured: Ryan Rankin flies the Lockwood Aircam. Photo courtesy of Ryan Rankin.

Ryan Flies

[Opening]  Atlantic Beer & Oyster Opens Friday

Atlantic Beer & Oyster (ABO)—a casual seafood and craft beer emporium—opens Friday, Nov. 3, in Downtown Sarasota. Located directly next to its sister restaurant Boca Kitchen Bar & Market, this marks ABO’s second location from restaurant group BE-1 Concepts. Staying true to its roots, the modern seafood shack solely utilizes local growers and fishermen to ensure the freshest quality menu items including a full raw bar rotating East, West and Gulf Coast oysters, hand-rolled sushi, fish tacos, signature smoked fish dip and mermaid fries, grouper sandwiches, as well as seasonal “right off the boat” catches. ABO Sarasota is located at 1534 State Street, with free enclosed parking above. 

Atlantic Beer & Oyster

[Recognition]  Adams and Reese Practice Areas Receive Distinction

The Florida offices of Adams and Reese had seven practice areas ranked Metropolitan Tier 1 and a combined eight garnered Tier 2 and Tier 3 distinction in the 2018 “Best Law Firms” published by U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers. Earning Tier 1 status for the firm in Florida were Insurance Law in Jacksonville, Litigation-Real Estate in Sarasota and Tampa, and Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights/Insolvency and Reorganization Law as well as Litigation-Construction in both St. Petersburg and Tampa. Adams and Reese had 18 practice areas ranked nationally as Top Tier, while 70 garnered Metropolitan Tier 1 status. The firm had a total of 51 practice areas ranked among Metropolitan Tier 2 practices and 36 areas ranked as Metropolitan Tier 3. All told, the firm had a total of 175 practice areas ranked in the 2018 report. Firms included in the 2018 “Best Law Firms” listing are recognized for professional excellence with persistently impressive ratings from clients and peers. 

Adams and Reese - Sarasota

[Government]  Sarasota Debuts New Florida Driver License and ID

Starting this month, all Sarasota County Tax Collector offices will be issuing the new, more secure Florida driver’s license and ID card, according to Tax Collector Barbara Ford-Coates. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) has redesigned the cards to include almost double the fraud protection measures as compared to the previous design. The cards provide the most secure, over-the-counter credential available, according to representatives from the DHSMV. Security features include redundant data, ultraviolet (UV) ink and optically variable features. The new design also incorporates optional designations for lifetime fishing and hunting licenses, veterans, organ donation, deaf/hard of hearing and developmentally disabled. 

Florida's New Driver License and ID Card

[Ophelia's On The Bay]  Holiday on the Bay
What better way to celebrate the Holiday season than with a handcrafted cocktail, fresh, fantastic food and an incredible view of Sarasota Bay? Ophelia’s On The Bay is the perfect location for your corporate or personal Holiday party this season. Their packages fit any size group to ensure everyone gets a chance to celebrate on the Bay. Not sure where to have Christmas Eve or Christmas Day dinner? Ophelia’s has you covered! Executive Chef Daniel Olsen and team will be rolling out some some must-try meals; hosting a Christmas Eve dinner 4PM-9PM and a Christmas Day dinner from 2PM-9PM. The options at Ophelia’s this Holiday season are endless and it is the perfect place to spend time with family and friends.

Photo Credit: Wyatt Kostygan

Ophelia's On The Bay is a member of Nosh, the SRQ magazine content marketing program for local restaurants.
 

Ophelia's On The Bay, 9105 Midnight Pass Rd, Sarasota, 941-349-2212.

Ophelia's On The Bay



[TODAY]  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

[TODAY]  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

[TODAY]  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: 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: 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]  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

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: 6th Annual Flower Talk Luncheon , November 7

Bruno Duarte of Fresh Floral Creations, Toronto is coming to Sarasota. Known for his abilities as a "Floral Architect,” Bruno’s program will consist of multiple floral arrangements made on the spot. The opportunity to see a master floral arranger the caliber of Bruno Duarte is not one worth missing. 

Michael's On East , 1212 S East Ave., Sarasota

[SOON]  SEMINAR: Wine, Women, Shoes , November 9 – November 11

Wine, Women & Shoes benefits The Parenting Program of Forty Carrots Family Center providing parenting education, early childhood education and child & family therapy at over 27 locations in Sarasota and Manatee Counties. The three-day series begins with a VIP Reception at Michael’s Wine Cellar on Nov. 9 where top donors and sponsors meet and sample wines from the series’ thirteen outstanding participating vintners. Friday, Nov. 10 features The Signature Luncheon at The Ritz-Carlton with a professional fashion show, a dozen fashionable retailers, and 60 volunteer men who show shoes on silver trays and support Forty Carrots. On Saturday, Nov. 11 five dinners are hosted in exquisite homes and other venues. We look forward to sharing good wine, exciting stories, and fabulous food with you all while supporting a good cause!

[SOON]  GALLERY: ArtsHOP Gallery Walk , November 9 – November 12, All day

The eleventh annual artsHOP weekend will be celebrated with a lineup of local original art, refreshments, live music, raffles. Attendees of the event will be able to meet a variety of artists from various local art galleries. Enjoy the beach and fine art at this weekend event.

Anna Maria Island

[SOON]  BUSINESS: The Mark Wandall Foundation’s 14th Annual Memorial Weekend , November 10 – November 11

Celebrate The Mark Wandall Foundation’s 14th Annual Memorial Weekend and learn how your support helps to aid kids and families in grief. Kick off the weekend Friday evening at Gold Coast Eagle Distributing with cocktails, fabulous food, a silent auction and poker tournament. Buy-in for the tournament includes free entry to the Kick-Off Celebration. The fun continues Saturday morning with a Golf Tournament at Legacy Golf Club in Lakewood Ranch.

Legacy Golf Club At Lakewood Ranch, 8255 Legacy Blvd Bradenton, FL 34202

[SOON]  FESTIVAL: Sarasota MOD Weekend Festival , November 10 – November 12

Sarasota Architectural Foundation presents the fourth annual SarasotaMOD Weekend November 10 through 12 . The midcentury modern architecture festival celebrates the legacy of acclaimed architect Tim Seibert featuring Parties , Presentations, Film Screening, Art Exhibitions, Trolley&House Tours.

 

[SOON]  MUSIC: David Olney , November 10

David Olney became a major player in Nashville's underground folk and country scene in the early '70s. Since his success in Tennessee, David has created over 20 albums to his name, incorporating a wide range of inspiration from honky tonk to rock in his works. 

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

[SOON]  FOOD: Keep the Dream Alive , November 13, 7:00PM

The Jewish Housing Council Foundation's 7th Annual Keep the Dream Alive event will be held for the first time on the Aviva Campus (1951 N. Honore Ave., Sarasota) and feature a bountiful dessert extravaganza by Chef Paul Mattison and his crew. Benefitting the Jewish Housing Council Foundation's Benevolent Care Program, Keep the Dream Alive will allow JHCF to continue honoring the founders’ dream of assuring that qualified residents can age in place, even if they have exhausted their resources.

Aviva Senior Life Campus, 1951 N. Honore Ave Sarasota, Florida 34235

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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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